This model is enhanced for premium comfort and performance - with the AMD Ryzen 5 7430U processor and 16GB of RAM. This laptop also comes with a 15.6" full HD display, Windows 11 Pro and an impressive two-year warranty, better than Apple or Dell.
We've been keeping a close eye on the Amazon Prime Day laptop deals on offer, and we haven't found a better laptop anywhere for less than $400.
If this isn't quite what you're looking for, or if you just want to browse all the best Prime Day has to offer, then keep an eye on our Amazon Prime Day deals hub, which we will be updating throughout Prime Day as more deals are uploaded.
This super affordable laptop comes with heaps of features, including 16GB of RAM, a powerful Ryzen 5 CPU, and a 512GB SSD for powerful performance and enhanced user experience. This 15.6" full HD display delivers sharp visuals and reduced glare for comfort in extended use. View Deal
More laptop deals
Intel Core i3-1215U | 16GB DDR4 | 512GB SSD
Not as powerful or as cheap as the Acemagic laptop, the N154 is a close second, matching it when it comes to memory and storage. It does offer two extra features, a backlit keyboard and a fingerprint reader. Like its rival, there's a two-year warranty as standard.View Deal
Intel Core i3-1215U | 16GB DDR4 | 512GB SSD
The Pavilion comes with HP's pedigree, one of the biggest names in town. Compared to the Nimo though, it is a bit underwhelming - no backlit keyboard or fingerprint reader - but definitely worth considering if you want a known brand.View Deal
The recently launched Oura Ring 5 is smaller and smarter than its predecessor, making it a significant upgrade that I don't doubt most will make, but it's hard to argue with the Ring 4 when its price has hit a record low for Amazon Prime Day.
You can now get the Oura Ring 4 at Amazon for $226 (was $399) in the US and for £232 (was £349) in the UK, which is a bargain when you consider that it was the best premium smart ring you can buy just two weeks ago.
Today's best Oura Ring 4 deals
Amazon has the best-selling Oura Ring 4 on sale for a new record-low price of $226. Sleek and comfortable, the Oura Ring 4 is fully titanium, making it built to last and highly durable. You get incredibly accurate data and personalized health insights about your sleep and stress levels.
Our fitness editor, Matt Evans, is a big fan of the Oura Ring 4. He said it was "nearly the perfect fitness tracker" in our review, praising the design, ease-of-use, long-lasting battery and detailed health information it offers. This fascinating bit of tech is now down to its lowest-ever price on Amazon.
My Oura Ring 5 review is out, but if you don't have time to dig into it, here's the long and short of it: it's a big upgrade over the Ring 4 when it comes to design and performance, but the price jump does hold it back from being an easy recommendation.
Costing an extra $50 / £50 / AU$80 than the standard Oura Ring 4 at launch, the Ring 5 is already priced a bit more. That of course is justifiable when you consider the improved accuracy and a 40% reduction in size, which is very noticeable when comparing the two side-by-side. But if you want the same core Oura Ring experience for less, this Ring 4 deal is the one to go for.
Against other wearables, the Ring 4 holds its own as a premium wellness tracker. It's not the right choice if you're after a fitness tracker, but for sleep and stress monitoring it's excellent — with an easy-to-use companion app and only one fewer day of battery life than the Ring 5, which is a minor trade-off given it can fully recharge in under an hour.
When comparing it to other wearables, the Ring 4 stands out as a luxury item for wellness tracking. It's not the right choice if you're after a fitness tracker, but for sleep and stress monitoring it's ideal. It has an easy to use companion app, and only has one day less of battery life, which is a minor trade-off given it can fully recharge in under an hour.
Considering it has most of the same features as the Oura Ring 5, the Ring 4 at this record low price is a genuinely hard deal to pass up, especially when the Ring 5 is unlikely to see a discount anytime soon. If you're new to smart rings and want the best value price for an Oura Ring, the Ring 4 is the deal to buy.
Netflix has confirmed that its new horror game Unhinged will launch on June 30
It will be available to Netflix subscribers on all plans
Unhinged is controlled via your phone and focuses on a woman trying to escape a home invasion
Netflix has announced they are launching a new horror game, Unhinged, on June 30 and that it will be available to all subscriber tiers.
Unhinged was made by Oxenfree developer Night School Studio, and is a first-person horror game centering on two young women who are neighbors, as one attempts to escape from a home invasion.
Night School game director Sam Warner told Rolling Stone: "I grew up with those, and I think that focus on novel innovative play was something that we really started this game with. If you've got Netflix and you have a phone, then this is for you."
A tense social media trailer was shared for Unhinged, where Netflix confirmed it would launch worldwide on June 30.
There's plenty to get excited about when it comes to Unhinged. First of all there's an amazing cast attached including Stranger Things' Sadie Sink, The Batman's Zoë Kravitz, and The Last of Us' voice actor Troy Baker.
Honestly, you couldn't get a better cast. I'm excited to see these stars in action, especially when it comes to the confined settings of a first-person horror like this. It has the potential to be great.
Gameplay wise, you'll need your phone for this one. Rather than being an interactive movie you control with your remote, Unhinged uses your phone to receive calls and text messages or to look around its world with a virtual flashlight.
There's multiple paths you can go down and, of course, you can die. So the stakes are high here and you'll have to pay attention if you want to make it out of the house safely. The game is said to be less than an hour in length, similar to an episode of a Netflix series, but you do have the opportunity to go back and explore new paths.
I've had mixed opinions of Netflix games so far but this one sounds promising. I can't wait to check it out on June 30.
Developer Rockstar Games has unveiled a deluge of new promotional screenshots, alongside the confirmation of the game's price and GTA 6 pre-order information.
In an email sent to outlets including TechRadar Gaming, the publisher shared 63 new images, which can also be found on the game's official site.
They mainly focus on the content included with the Ultimate Edition, or the Vintage Vice City Pack pre-order bonus DLC, but still reveal some interesting titbits about the game and point to some potential key mechanics.
Loads of the new screenshots focus on cars and car customization, with the press release accompanying the images confirming that Ultimate Edition owners will be able to visit two exclusive vehicle mod shops.
We know that interiors will be customizable, alongside rims, paint jobs, and more.
Clothing stores and hairdressers are returning too
As in past games, it's clear that players will be able to visit clothing stores to customize how their characters look as the Ultimate Edition comes bundled with access to the exclusive Stock 305 Clothing Store.
There will also be hairdressers if you need a trim, including Sara's Unisex Salon if you buy the Ultimate Edition version.
The game will also feature tattoo parlors, again just like previous games.
You can get your own boats
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One of the biggest benefits of the Ultimate Edition seems to be access to the Shitzu Squalo, a flashy boat that you can use to explore the sea and access a weapons crate. Like Grand Theft Auto 5, it seems players will be able to own and presumably customize their own ships.
You'll have somewhere to stay on land as well
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When you're on land, you will be able to access safehouses, with one included in the Ultimate Edition. It will allow you to store vehicles and, I assume, access other features.
Weapon customization is back with a bang
Rockstar GamesRockstar GamesRockstar GamesRockstar Games
Loads of the screenshots show flashy weapons (or characters holding them). The fact that you will be able to customize weapons has been confirmed, which should mean access to skins and attachments. like scopes or suppressors.
To get these deals, you obviously need to be a Prime member, which you can sign up for a free 30-day trial here. Check out why I think the LG C5 is the ultimate all-around TV, and perfect for GTA 6, below.
Today's best LG C5 42-inch deal
The LG C5 sits at the top of a lot of our best-of lists for a reason at TechRadar. It's a home run for movies, sports, and gaming, delivering optimum performance and features for every area. This deal knocks 29% off the 42-inch model, taking it down to a cheapest-ever £599. If you need a TV for a smaller room or even as a monitor, this is it. Check out links to other sizes below.
This isn't the first time I've written about the LG C5 this Prime Day, and for good reason. It's not only one of the best TVs available, it's also the best deal of the event so far. Anytime this five-star OLED gets a discount, it's worth writing about.
With GTA 6 pre-orders going live at midnight on June 25, you could be looking to upgrade your TV, and the C5 is the perfect candidate. It has a full range of features for gaming, including 4K 144Hz, full VRR with FreeSync, G-Sync, and HGiG included, ALLM, and Dolby Vision gaming (if you own an Xbox).
It also boasts an ultra-low measured 9.2ms input lag time, that mean gaming feels smooth and responsive. I can attest to this, as Battlefield V's often intense battles and vehicle sequences were expertly handled, meaning gaming was a lot of fun. This is one of the best gaming TVs around.
But what about its picture quality? Again, it's superb. When I watched movies such as Elemental and Wicked, colors dazzled on screen, showing a real vibrancy but also, importantly, good accuracy. Its black levels and contrast, as you'd expect for an OLED, are excellent. I was blown away by its rendering of challenging dark scenes from movies like The Batman and Alien: Romulus.
It also showcases crisp, lifelike textures and detail with whatever it displays, solid upscaling of lower resolution sources (maybe if you want to play some retro games), and delivers excellent motion handling.
For GTA 6, I expect the neon-soaked streets of Vice City will look stunning on the C5, and I reckon when you're trying to shake that five-star wanted level with some chaotic driving, the C5 is more than up to the challenge.
Meta just announced some stunning new smart glasses, one pair of which has been co-designed by the Kylie Jenner. The specs, as always designed alongside Ray-Ban parent company EssilorLuxottica, will start at $299 / £269 / AU$599, offer much the same in terms of features as the second-generation Ray-Ban Metas, with improvements in some places, such as the addition of adjustable nose pieces, plus a lot of design and color choices.
They're available already, perhaps in efforts to beat Apple's suspected smart spec play later this year, but if you want AR experiences or the safe pair of hands the Ray-Ban frames offer design-wise, you might be better off shopping around.
I love the look of all of Meta's new Essilor Luxottica AI glasses, but they're not well-suited for entertainment and it remains to be seen how comfortable and durable the newly designed frames will be.Lance Ulanoff / FutureLance Ulanoff / FutureLance Ulanoff / FutureLance Ulanoff / FutureLance Ulanoff / FutureLance Ulanoff / FutureLance Ulanoff / FutureLance Ulanoff / FutureLance Ulanoff / Future
Luckily, there are a few alternatives which may well be better for your needs currently on offer, some as part of the Amazon Prime Day deals, plus a few others from regional retailers like Best Buy in the US and Currys in the UK.
For me, personally, the deal-breaker is always style. A lot of smart glasses are more masculine in form, and few can hold their own against my bangs when it comes to filming, meaning a lot of my best vacation shots have been ruined by errant hair. That's why the new wider-frame Meta Starfire Kylie Edition frames have captured my heart so much, but if you're not bothered by that, you can score some of the best smart glasses we've tested for less right now. Read on for my top picks.
Today's best smart glasses deals (US)
The Air 4 Pro is a significant upgrade to the Air 3S Pro, with HDR10 and B&O audio. The AI 3D works well on personal video, just not streaming content, and it all comes together as an excellent value package; however, these are display glasses, not true AR.View Deal
A neat $75 saving on Meta's first-generation Ray-Ban smart glasses is a great way to capture the moment during vacation season without breaking the bank if you want to stick with the tried and true Ray-Ban frames. The only major differences with the new second-generation model are the longer battery life and a wider range of slightly higher-quality filming options. View Deal
We scored these smart specs 4.5 stars in our review, praising their entertainment-first featureset. That includes solid Bose audio and a large full-HD display, which looks better than ever thanks to a new optical engine. However, the glasses are also a bit pricey, so this $50 discount is very welcome. View Deal
Today's best smart glasses deals (UK)
Featuring HDR10 and B&O audio, these smart display glasses are fantastic for personal video, streaming and even gaming. The AI 3D works well on personal video, just not streaming content, and it all comes together as an excellent value package; however, these are display glasses, not true AR.View Deal
Another pair of 4.5-star rated smart glasses to add to the basket, the Xreal 1s are designed more for entertainment than everyday wear. They render a virtual big screen for almost any USB-C-sporting device, and between that and the excellent clarity, color, fit, and feel, these are a solid purchase with £40 off during Prime Day. View Deal
I wouldn't call this a great deal, but it's still worth highlighting. Meta also lists the first-generation model at this price, but at Curry's you can get a large pair with free next-day delivery in most areas and up to two months of Apple Music, Apple Fitness+ and Apple Arcade. Packing an ultra-wide 12 MP camera and up to 32 hours of battery life with a charging case, these are pretty much the industry standard all-rounders; but the Gen 2-pair boost the battery and offer more filming options. View Deal
I'd definitely spotlight the RayNeo Air 4 Pro deals as the best of the bunch. My colleague Hamish Hector is somewhat of a smart spec aficionado, and he raves about the RayNeo Air 4 Pro; you can watch below or read his full 4.5-star review to learn more about why.
Grand Theft Auto 6 pre-orders are live, and now we’re finally within touching distance of the release of 2026’s most anticipated game — if not, one of the most anticipated games of all time.
Of course, to play the game you’ll need a modern console, and one of the best TVs or best monitors can’t hurt either. But there’s one more thing I think you need to enjoy the experience at its very best: a strong audio setup.
That’s right, most TVs have pretty shoddy built-in speakers, and even if they support immersive formats like Dolby Atmos, typically struggle to whip up expansive, punchy, and clean sound. As a result, I’d strongly suggest investing in a soundbar, which will help you truly immerse yourself in the world of GTA 6, and enjoy movies and series like never before.
So, I’ve curated a list of five soundbars I’d recommend grabbing right now, with everything from affordable all-in-one options through to spectacular surround sound systems — there really is something for all kinds of budgets and living spaces here. Ready to discover my top picks?
1. Sonos Beam Gen 2
(Image credit: Truls Steinung)
It may be almost half a decade old, but the Sonos Beam Gen 2 is still one of the best compact soundbars I’ve ever tested. I found that it delivers the kind of hard-hitting bass you’d expect from a larger, pricier soundbar, it’s easy to customize in the Sonos companion app, and it even conjures up a pretty wide soundstage, in part thanks to its Dolby Atmos support.
On top of this, I love how the Beam Gen 2 is incredibly easy to set up. Just connect it to your display’s HDMI eARC port, plug it into the power, and you’re good to go. Its small size also makes slotting it into your setup super seamless, and its modern look helps it to stand out as a stylish centerpiece in any living room or bedroom.
When you’re done with a GTA 6 play session, this soundbar can also double up as a neat companion for music too. It has Wi-Fi streaming, enabling you to stream your favorite tunes with high quality playback, and there’s even AirPlay 2 support for iOS devices. If you have other Sonos products, you can also link the Beam 2 with them and enjoy the beauty of multi-room audio, meaning this model really is a great all-rounder.
Let’s start with how this thing performs. Despite its limited 28.7-inch / 730mm width, it creates a surprisingly convincing sense of width, and whether I was playing video games or spinning some 4K UHD Blu-rays, I found it delivered delicious depth and excellent tracking of any on-screen action. With Atmos content, it really felt as if I could hear some elements playing in the corners of our TV testing space, which is something that a lot of mini models fail to do.
It also gets the basics spot on, with clear dialogue, controlled yet relatively powerful low-end sound, and impressive musicality. Although I have to say, this soundbar arguably looks even better than it sounds. Its amp-inspired aesthetic, golden details, striking frets, and classy control panel really make it stand out. As a result, you won’t only get a soundbar that’s great for engrossing audio in GTA 6, but you’ll get a product that you’re proud to put at the front and center of your living space.
3. Samsung HW-Q800F
(Image credit: Future / Aardman Animations)
Right, let’s take things up a gear, should we? If you want truly absorbing bass as well as expansive sound from a main soundbar, then the Samsung HW-Q800F has got you covered.
I tested this 5.1.2 channel model at the end of last year, and awarded it a rare five star rating, praising its deep, almost room-swallowing bass, its exceptional dialogue clarity, and its convincing Dolby Atmos effects. This bar can even muster up an impressive sense of height, providing an almost tangible feel to sound effects in video games as well as movies.
The Q800F brought a new sub into play which is a lot more compact, but still hits hard, meaning it's easy to fit into your living space without requiring a sacrifice in terms of quality. It’s also rammed with countless features, such as an effective calibration tool, Dolby Atmos and DTS:X support, a range of sound modes (including a Gaming setting), and Q-Symphony, which adds audio from compatible Samsung TVs into your system.
4. Samsung HW-Q990F
(Image credit: Future)
OK, now we’re getting into the really spacious-sounding stuff, and where better to start than with the Samsung HW-Q990F, the step-up options from the aforementioned Q800F.
Although the newer Samsung HW-Q990H is available in 2026, I’d still suggest getting the Q990F right now, as it offers a very similar level of quality at a typically smaller cost. It comes with a soundbar, sub, and two surround speakers, giving you true surround sound for the most enveloping experience imaginable. And when I heard the Q990F for myself, I was really struck by how well all of these speakers work in harmony — with games and movies alike, I found that audio sounded incredibly cohesive and well-balanced.
More generally, the Q990F delivers awesome all-round sound, with seriously weighty yet regimented bass, ultra-clean mids, and expressive highs. It also serves up impressive dynamics, a nuanced soundstage for gaming, movies and music alike, and fantastic features within Samsung’s SmartThings app. Another highlight is its two HDMI 2.1 inputs, which you can connect a games console like the PS5 Pro to for 4K 120Hz gameplay — ideal if you’re running out of slots on your TV or monitor.
5. JBL Bar 1300MK2
(Image credit: Future)
Last but not least, we have the magnificent JBL Bar 1300MK2 (or JBL Bar 1300XMK2 in the US), which is one of the most mind-blowing surround sound systems I’ve ever had the joy of testing here at TechRadar.
The most attention-grabbing thing about the Bar 1300MK 2 is its immense power. It has a maximum power output of almost 2,500W across its 29 drivers, which — as I said in my review — is ludicrously high. This means that you can access room-shaking volumes, and if you’ve got a large living space, you’ll be able to feel the might of its sound in every inch of the room.
But the 1300MK2 doesn’t just have power for the sake of power, it really does sound mesmerizing. The highlight is the low-end, which I found to be seismic and full-sounding, while still remaining controlled and never getting in the way of sounds elsewhere in the frequency range. Dolby Atmos is also spectacularly strong on the 1300MK2 with almost mind-boggling width on offer and solid height effects, making you feel at the center of the action when gaming or watching videos.
The flexibility of the 1300MK2 is another one of its highlights. It comes with battery powered surround speakers, which you can easily place wherever you want without having to mess around with wires — something a lot of rivals force you to do. And these can even be used as standalone Bluetooth speakers if you’re on the go, or be used standalone for night mode — ideal for a 2am gaming sesh.
We're almost half way through this year's Amazon Prime Day and we keep running into deals on the best smartwatches left, right, and center, and now it's the Apple Watch Ultra 3's time to shine.
I'm using an Apple Watch SE 2 (I'm satisfied with its basic offerings), but I've been admiring the new Ultra model from afar, purely because of how much of a beast it is in the world of wearables. It's very much an investment piece, but it's now down to $649 (was $799) in the US, and £649 (was £749) in the UK.
When it comes to Apple discounts, the tech giant doesn't like to be as generous as other brands, so this Apple Watch Ultra 3 deal is somewhat of a rare occurrence. Not only has a brand new Apple Watch model received a price drop, but it's the lowest price we've seen it hit ever. On top of that, it takes the top overall spot in our list of favorite smartwatches.
Today's best Apple Watch Ultra 3 deals
You can save a staggering $150 on the brand-new Apple Watch Ultra 3 at Amazon's Prime Day sale. Packed with premium features, you're getting Cellular connectivity, a boosted 42-hour battery life, and emergency satellite messaging. Today's deal is the lowest price we've ever seen the Ultra 3 hit, and it's our best-rated smartwatch. View Deal
Likewise with Amazon UK, our best overall smartwatch has hit its lowest price, and it was only released just last September. Apple deals are very few and far between, and though £100 off may seem a little stingy, it's quite the steal for a brand new premium Apple device. View Deal
If you're tired of your standard Apple Watch series and are ready to take things to the next level with your wearables, the Apple Watch Ultra 3 could be the model for you. Or, if you're a Garmin owner who's looking to make the switch, the Ultra 3 is a solid rival.
As I've mentioned, my Apple Watch SE 2 is going strong, and I haven't felt the need to seek a proper upgrade just yet. But discount aside, the Ultra 3 has a handful of features I think are worth the investment.
For starters, the Ultra 3 is the first smartwatch in Apple's lineup to have flagship satellite connectivity, designed to enhance communication features in areas where you're limited for signal. Additionally, one of the watch's key functions is Emergency SOS via Satellite, which would come in handy if you're lost on an expedition.
Compared to its predecessor, and other Apple Watch models for that matter, the Ultra 3 has a much larger screen with wide-angle viewing, a handy addition that helps you view notifications even when you're not looking at the watch face-on. We found this to be very helpful for reading pop-ups in low-brightness environments.
But these aside, the Ultra 3's battery life truly puts other models in the ground. One of the biggest setbacks with the SE 2, for example, is that I find myself having to charge it constantly. When it comes to the Ultra 3, it can go for a good 42 hours on normal use before needing another round of juice.
The Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 is likely to be launched at this year's summer Unpacked presentation, which is happening either next month or in August. But even though an Ultra 2 is on the horizon, I'd still get this deal.
How do I know an Ultra 2 is launching? I don't for sure, but I have some evidence that points in that direction. For one thing, Samsung's summer event launches its new watches each year, and occurs roughly around this time. For another, an Ultra 2 has been heavily rumored to be part of the 2026 roster refresh.
Today's best Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra (2025) deals
Save almost $300 on the Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra in Titanium Blue version only, in a shocking price drop. While it's not the best choice for everyone (non-adventurers may overpay on features they won't use, and it's large for small wrists), its AI smarts, useful Now Bar technology to serve you the widgets you need, and longevity (up to 100 hours!) means it's well-made for adventurers.View Deal
Save a cool 33% on the Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra in all colorways, including the fetching Titanium Blue version also seen above. It's not quite as good a price cut as the US one, but still a significant discount on a popular watch. View Deal
Should you get this deal or wait for the Samsung Galaxy Ultra 2?
Unlike my Garmin Fenix 9 article, in which I recommend not getting the Fenix 8 and instead waiting for the 9 to come out, I actually recommend buying this Ultra deal rather than waiting for an Ultra 2 to arrive.
The 45%-off deal is simply too big a price drop to pass up, taking the AI-powered watch into must-buy territory. It's never been on offer for anything close to this, and there are no guarantees you'll get a good deal when the Ultra 2 lands in a month or two.
Besides, the original Ultra launched in 2024 was such a big design choice for Samsung that I'm expecting any changes to be quite iterative and software-focused this time. In which case, last year's Ultra will already run the latest Wear OS, so I doubt you'll see much of an improvement over the existing Ultra.
UN calls on AI companies to declare environmental cost of AI
New energy projects and data centers are contributing to pollution
UN sets up AI Environmental Transparency Initiative to provide insight into the impacts of water usage, carbon emissions, and land usage
Multiple studies on the direct and indirect impact of AI have predicted that the technology is damaging local and global environments, and contributing to man-made climate change.
But the full extent of the damage should be publicly disclosed by AI companies themselves, the United Nations has said.
Speaking during London Climate Action Week, UN Secretary-General António Guterres said, “If AI is to help build a better future, it must be honest about what it costs us now.”
Reveal the full environmental cost of AI
“By 2030, they could use more power than all but five countries – and enough water to meet the basic needs of all 1.3 billion residents of sub‑Saharan Africa for an entire year,” he said.
His speech (via Reuters) also included the launch of the UN’s AI Environmental Transparency Initiative, which offers AI companies the opportunity to publicly disclose water, the environmental impacts of their water usage, carbon emissions, and land use.
Some AI companies have agreed to net-zero commitments and decarbonization through renewable energy projects, but these commitments are largely voluntary and do not subject companies to any repercussions if they fail to meet targets.
The total environmental cost of AI is not known, but estimates for the US have placed the total cost at around $25 billion per year, which includes the health costs of residents living in the polluted vicinity of data centers. The UN hopes that the AI Environmental Transparency initiative will provide direct insight into the fiscal, human, and environmental costs of AI.
The LG C5 is the ultimate all-around TV, delivering excellent performance for movies, gaming and sports with a full suite of features and superb picture quality. The 65-inch model has dropped to $1,199.99 at Amazon and while this isn't a record-low, it's the cheapest it's been since February. View Deal
The TCL QM6K has an impressive list of gaming features for the money, including 4K 144Hz and FreeSync Premium Pro support. Its picture is colorful and detailed and it has solid gaming performance. While this $747.99 price for the 75-inch doesn't beat the record-low, it's an excellent price for a 75-inch mini-LED. View Deal
Easily one of the best value OLED TVs available, the LG B5 48-inch has dropped to $599.99. It's not a record-low, but still a very good price. This is the perfect TV if you're looking for a bedroom-sized display for gaming that still delivers awesome OLED picture quality. View Deal
The TCL QM7K is a feature-packed mini-LED TV that over-delivers for its price range. It has great picture quality and a ton of solid gaming features. While this discount may be small, it does take the 65-inch model down to a new record-low price of $749.99. View Deal
Limited time deal! This deal takes a huge 40% off the Sony Bravia 8 65-inch, but it ends at midnight so be quick. An OLED with excellent detail and contrast, plus a healthy suite of gaming features including Perfect for PS5 settings, this is a great choice for Sony fans looking to play GTA 6 on a good-sized OLED. View Deal
The Samsung QN90F is a perfect TV for bright rooms, thanks to its anti-glare screen and solid brightness. It's fully stocked for gaming, with 4K 165Hz, FreeSync Premium Pro, ALLM and HDR10+ support, as well as a ton of cloud gaming options. Its picture quality is brilliant too. Best Buy has the 75-inch model for a record-low $1,499.99, so if you want a premium big screen experience for GTA 6, this is it. View Deal
Today's best gaming TV deals in the UK
The LG C5 covers all the bases, with OLED picture quality and razor-sharp performance for movies, sports and gaming. Speaking of gaming, it has all the bases covered with 4K 144Hz, full VRR, Dolby Vision gaming and ALLM all covered across four HDMI 2.1 ports. There's a reason it tops most of our best-of lists. The 55-inch model has dropped again to £899 at Amazon, a ridiculous, new record-low price and a steal for a 55-inch OLED. View Deal
LG's best value OLED hits its lowest ever price with this Prime Day deal, with the 48-inch LG B5 hitting £549, superb value for a 48-inch OLED. Perfect for bedroom gaming, the B5 has a full suite of gaming features and delivers smooth gameplay. View Deal
The Samsung S95F delivers superb picture quality, with high brightness, vibrant colors, and effective reflection handling thanks to its anti-glare screen. It's also packed with gaming features and has the performance to match. This deal takes the 55-inch model down to £1,273 at Peter Tyson. It's been as low as £1237.50 recently, but this is today's best deal: and it's still a great one. View Deal
If you want a big screen for gaming on a budget, the 65-inch TCL Q6C is a brilliant choice. This deal for £527 is the cheapest it's ever been and is excellent value for a gaming mini-LED TV. It has great picture quality and a good stock of gaming features for this price level, with 4K 144Hz, Dolby Vision gaming and FreeSync Premium Pro all supported. View Deal
I know I featured the LG C5 55-inch above, but this deal on the 42-inch is too good not to feature. £599 is the cheapest this has ever been and an amazing price. It still delivers the rich colors, strong contrast and the gaming features and performance of its larger siblings, but now it's the ideal size for small rooms. View Deal
The Samsung QN90F is the ideal TV for bright rooms, with an anti-glare screen and solid brightness levels, plus it has a full suite of features for gaming with impressive performance. Gaming in a bright room has never been easier. Th3 55-inch was recently £809.10 so this isn't the cheapest it's been, but it's still an excellent offer. View Deal
If you want more information about the GTA VI launch announcement, you can check out the stories and our TikTok below with all the latest news from Rockstar about this hotly anticipated release.
Crysta can make a 3D printed model of a Gaussian Splat
The detail level is quite remarkable
It doesn't come cheap, but nonetheless, this is jaw-dropping stuff
Ever wanted to take a scene from real life and shrink it into a snow globe-style model (minus the snow) to sit on your shelf, preserved forever?
Well, maybe not forever, but you get the idea, and it's possible to do this now thanks to a firm called Crysta.
As Dany Bittel explains on Patreon, Crysta offered to turn one of their 'Gaussian Splats' – of a bee – into a real-world representation of the insect courtesy of a 3D printer.
@Crysta_AI printed one of my bees as a present! pic.twitter.com/HENIVMXaMJJune 18, 2026
The result, as you can see in the post on X above, is pretty spectacular. But wait a minute, I hear you ask (probably): a Gaussian what-now? If you're not familiar with the concept of a Gaussian Splat, it's a 3D model of a real place or thing, built from video footage that you've filmed on your camera (or maybe a drone for more adventurous constructs).
We've previously covered how this works in an in-depth article where we used a cloud-based service called Splatica to make our Splat, and suffice it to say, it's a very cool process with impressive results.
Going a step further with the impressiveness, though, is taking that Gaussian Splat model and 3D printing it. (Crysta can also do this with an alternative process, Neural Radiance Fields, or NeRF).
How is the model turned (back) into a physical rendition? Bittel notes that: "The Gaussian splat is first voxelated, a bit like a Minecraft level. Each voxel has a mix of inks and can be more or less transparent. This then gets printed on [a] special 3D printer, layer by layer."
Cubic cost
(Image credit: Dany Bittel)
As Bittel observes, this is like a modern version of the fly trapped in amber, except it's an entirely artificial construct, built from an artificial model. I absolutely love the idea, and if you do too, you might be wondering how much it costs.
The truth is that it isn't cheap, as you might guess. You'll need to fork out for a Splatica subscription if you go the same way TechRadar did, which is quite pricey (or use an equivalent service or app).
The actual printing of the model by Crysta will run to something like $140 in the US for a 30mm cube, according to Bittel as a guide price (they got one for free, as a present, in case you were wondering). You can go up to a 300mm cube if you want an ornament with a real impact on your room (and likely your wallet, too).
The company ships the 3D printed models globally, although of course, it'll cost more to send outside of the US.
Finally! EcoFlow has dropped the Prime Day price on our top-rated portable power station. It's not often that I refresh a page watch the price change before my eyes. But that's what just happened with the EcoFlow Delta 3 Plus, now $570 (was $899) at Amazon.
Seconds before then, it was sitting at a not unreasonable $700. One refresh later, and it's dropped even further in the Amazon sale. It's also discounted in the UK, where the Delta 3 Plus is now £549 (was £699).
The Delta 3 Plus is a 1024Wh power station that scored the full 5 stars in our review, where we praised it as offering "a balanced combination of power, portability, and versatility."
Earning top marks in our tests, we awarded this portable power station an Editor's Choice badge thanks to its compact design, versatile charging options, and robust performance. ★★★★★View Deal
Also consider: More Prime Day portable power station deals
I recommend this one for camping this summer - it's practically built for it. In our review, it also earned top marks, making it one of the best of its class. ★★★★★View Deal
My top budget power station overall. In our review, we the Bluetti Elite 30 V2 was a "spectacular option" when you need to quickly top up your devices. View Deal
The Jackery Explorer 2000 V2 is a high-capacity unit with a versatile output for devices and appliances. In our review, we found it "excellent for most home uses." ★★★★☆View Deal
This Anker power station is the definition of portable, straddling the line like an oversized power bank. Good for when you need to power devices on the move or when camping.View Deal
NordStellar found 924 dark‑web posts about deepfakes‑as‑a‑service (DFaaS) Jan–May 2026, up 39% year‑on‑year
Rising interest driven by generative AI advances, enabling hyper‑realistic “fake boss” scams and lowering barriers for attackers
Experts urge prevention through employee education and monitoring for leaked company data to reduce risk of targeted deepfake attacks
The interest in deepfakes-as-a-service (DFaaS) among criminals is growing, and the cybersecurity community is worried it might fuel the next wave of “fake boss” scams.
This is according to a new report from threat exposure management platform, NordStellar. Analyzing discussions on the dark web, the researchers found that between January and May this year, there were 924 posts about DFaaS, up 39% compared to the same period last year, when there were 663 similar posts.
“The rapid growth in popularity of deepfakes as a service is likely accelerated by advancements in generative AI, which help cybercriminals in two ways — by speeding up the creation of deepfakes and making them hyper-realistic,” says Vakaris Noreika, cybersecurity expert at NordStellar. “Ultimately, this service lowers the barrier to entry for deepfake technology, enabling threat actors to deploy highly deceptive attacks at a larger scale, regardless of their personal technical skill set.”
How to defend against convincing deepfake attacks?
Experts are worried the rising interest might result in more “fake boss” scams which, at that, would be even more difficult to spot. Business Email Compromise (BEC), a “fake boss” scam that primarily uses written emails, has for years been among the most lucrative tactics in the criminal underworld. According to the FBI, BEC was the second costliest tactic last year, with company losses exceeding $3 billion (up 11% compared to 2024).
Defending against highly convincing deepfake images and videos might not be easy, but it certainly isn’t impossible. Noreika suggests businesses should focus on prevention and employee education, since they cannot control whether crooks target them or not.
“The more details and access attackers obtain, the easier it is for them to craft highly realistic, targeted attacks,” says Noreika. “Monitoring the dark web for leaked company information is a critical step in preventing cybercriminals from finding credentials to breach accounts or data to use as intel.”
Pilot describes drones moving in a unified jellyfish-like aerial formation
Intelligence officials remain divided over the accuracy of combat sighting
A concussion during the crash raises questions about the pilot's perception reliability
A US F-15 pilot was shot down over Iranian territory during the US-Israel war against Iran in April 2026, and he spent several hours on the ground before special operations forces completed his rescue.
During a subsequent debriefing, the pilot reportedly described unusual aerial activity involving Iranian drones during the combat operations that preceded his downing.
He claimed the drones assumed a formation resembling a jellyfish, with multiple units moving together in coordinated patterns across the airspace above him.
Debrief Account and Contested Interpretation
Intelligence officials reportedly debated the account at length, with one source describing the scene internally as “real alien sh*t.”
Officials disagreed sharply on how to interpret the events, noting the pilot had suffered a concussion during the crash itself.
He had also previously been involved in a friendly fire incident earlier in the conflict, so some analysts questioned whether he had accurately perceived events, or whether sensory distortion under extreme stress shaped his account.
Some intelligence analysts, however, also considered whether the reported pattern could reflect an emerging form of coordinated drone control rather than a misperception.
The technical concept referenced throughout internal analysis was described as one-to-many meshed networking, a system allowing several drones to be commanded simultaneously.
Questions over meshed networking capability
Reports suggested Iran may have received external assistance from China and Russia in developing its drone technologies during the broader conflict period.
Iranian forces had reportedly used attack drones as asymmetric weapons throughout weeks of operations against US, Israeli, and Gulf state forces.
Defense expert Emma Bates told CNN that countering this kind of coordination would demand enormous resources.
“We will spend huge, huge dollars, like a lot of blood and treasure, protecting ourselves from something that can coordinate like that,” said Emma Bates, a drone warfare and defense modernization expert.
She noted that drones maintaining a coordinated shape while carrying explosives, and reserving capacity for follow-up strikes, would represent a genuinely capable approach.
Officials separately noted that meshed networking could theoretically support internet connectivity in remote regions lacking infrastructure, though such civilian applications remain largely hypothetical for now.
The Office of the Director of National Intelligence declined to comment publicly on the pilot's account or any ongoing internal assessment.
Whether the pilot witnessed genuine drone coordination, misperceived events under extreme stress, or described something intelligence agencies have yet to fully understand remains unresolved.
Offering an alternative to what some vendors call 'portable storage', Western Digital's My Passport is (quite literally) the size of a passport. But that doesn't mean it compromises on speed—with up to 1000MB/s read and write—or ruggedness, as it is rated to survive a 6.5ft drop.
The My Passport SSD is therefore perfectly suited to storing large media projects and files for the on-the-go professional who needs a shock-resistant storage option that doesn't burn (or wear) a hole in your pocket. For anyone looking to move on from USB thumb drives, this is the logical progression, and right now it has $128 off for Prime Day.
Today's top WD My Passport 1TB SSD deal
For rugged storage, the My Passport from Western Digital is a blazing fast portable SSD that won't weigh you down. For the outdoor creatives or commuting professional, this SSD will handle almost anything you throw at it.View Deal
Now, while the My Passport won't give you the speedy performance of a mounted SSD, we did clock transfer speeds of 1046MBps read and 1013MBps write in, which is above the manufacturers baseline. In his review, our very own storage expert Désiré called the My Passport "a compelling choice" in its balance of performance and size.
Western Digital does have a few variations for its My Passport range, including a heavier, larger USB 2.0/3.0 option. But this USB C version is the superior choice, not only for more than twice as fast transfer speeds (500MBps for the USB version), but also for the form factor. It is noticeably smaller and lighter than its bigger brothers.
FutureFutureFuture
The USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 delivers a 20 Gbps with the right cable, but also offers backwards compatibility with USB 3.2 or 2.0 cables.
What I find particularly attractive is the password protection and built-in always active 256-bit AES hardware encryption, making physically transporting precious media and important files less of a daunting task. Even if I were to lose it or have it stolen, I'd at least have the peace of mind that no one can access my files. Additionally, if you do somehow manage to damage this rugged SSD, it comes with a 5-year manufacturers warranty
Also consider: More portable SSD deals
Samsung's T9 Portable SSD delivers blazing-fast transfer speeds of up to 2,000MB/s via USB 3.2 Gen 2x2. Compact and durable, it's an excellent choice for students and professionals who need fast, reliable portable storage.View Deal
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Stuart Fails to Save the Universe: key information
- Releases on HBO Max from July 23 on a weekly basis, consists of 10 episodes - First full trailer has been released - Kevin Sussman, Brian Posehn, Lauren Lapkus and John Ross Bowie are all set to reprise their roles from The Big Bang Theory - Follows Stuart starting a 'multiverse Armageddon' after breaking a device built by Sheldon and Leonard
Created by Chuck Lorre, Zak Penn, and Bill Prady, Kevin Sussman reprises the role of Stuart, the awkward and angsty comic book shop owner who often plays host to many classic TBBT scenes, not to mention its ever-spiralling scientific lore.
While the main season ran until 2019, Young Sheldonand Georgie & Mandy's First Marriage have taken over the reins when it comes to keeping the 'Sheldonverse' alive. Seven years later, and we're returning to the original story — only it's nothing like it, really.
In all honesty, it looks like a hilarious spoof of The Walking Dead with a comic book twist. But what do we actually know about the new HBO Max show?
Stuart Fails to Save the Universe release date
(Image credit: HBO Max)
Stuart Fails to Save the Universe consists of 10 episodes, which will debut on HBO on July 23 at 9pm ET.
It will also be available to stream on HBO Max. New episodes will debut on subsequent Thursdays.
Stuart Fails to Save the Universe trailer
The full trailer was released on June 23, which you can watch above. There's a bunch of direct references to classic movies, from Mad Max to Alien.
Stuart Fails to Save the Universe cast
(Image credit: HBO Max)
We're expecting the following main cast members to appear in Stuart Fails to Save the Universe:
Kevin Sussman as Stuart Bloom / Alternate Stuart Bloom
Brian Posehn as Bert Kibbler
Lauren Lapkus as Denise
John Ross Bowie as Barry Kripke / Supreme Ruler Barry Kripke
Ryan Cartwright as Kyle
Josh Brener as Trevor
Tommy Walker as Gary
However, according to the synopsis (which you can read in full below), we can also expect to see some cameo appearances of alternate TBBT characters.
Annoyingly, we don't know exactly who yet. This will likely be kept under wraps until episodes air, so keep your eyes peeled.
Stuart Fails to Save the Universe plot
(Image credit: HBO Max)
Here's the official synopsis: "Comic book store owner Stuart Bloom is tasked with restoring reality after he breaks a device built by Sheldon (Jim Parsons) and Leonard (Johnny Galecki), accidentally bringing about a multiverse Armageddon.
"Stuart is aided in this quest by his girlfriend Denise, geologist friend Bert, and quantum physicist/all-around pain in the ass Barry Kripke. Along the way, they meet alternate-universe versions of characters we’ve come to know and love from The Big Bang Theory. As the title implies, things don’t go well."
See what I mean about those potential cameos? A lot of TBBT lore is set to be featured here, and fan theories are already spreading across the internet like wildfire.
None of these is confirmed, however, so don't believe everything you read.
The Big Bang Theory timeline — will it cross over?
(Image credit: CBS)
Out of the four shows that currently make up the Sheldonverse, this is the correct chronological order for them (according to time, not when they were released):
Young Sheldon
Georgie & Mandy's First Marriage
The Big Bang Theory
Stuart Fails to Save the Universe
There's currently no confirmation that Stuart Fails to Save the Universe and The Big Bang Theory will directly cross over, outside of the tipped cameos.
However, as a show with alternate realities, it is logically feasible that some of these realities just happen to be the set of TBBT, or Sheldon's childhood home in Medford, Texas. Even more so for the latter, as the set is currently being used to film Georgie & Mandy's First Marriage season 3.
We'll have to wait until the show starts airing to see if any of this is true.
A digital Grand Theft Auto 6 pre-order comes with a free month of GTA+
The subscription service offers access to GTA Online benefits and the ability to play older GTA games
Here's everything you need to know about the service
If you place a GTA 6 pre-order on a digital storefront for PlayStation 5 or Xbox Series X and Series S, you immediately get access to a free month of GTA+.
But what exactly is it, and how should you use it? Here's what you need to know.
What actually is GTA+?
(Image credit: Rockstar Games)
GTA+ is Rockstar's subscription service, primarily intended for the most devoted GTA Online players.
It gives you access to a load of benefits in the multiplayer game, including a monthly $500,000 in-game cash injection, a 15% bonus when you buy Shark Cards (the game's currency gift cards), and reward multipliers in certain missions.
You also get access to The Vinewood Car Club, where you can claim a free vehicle or modify your existing collection in its exclusive workshop. The Car Club also boasts a 100-car garage for you to use.
This is on top of monthly drops that include exclusive liveries, special paint jobs, and unique clothing. Other smaller benefits include free taxi rides in-game, access to a discounted gun store, the ability to bribe the police to reduce your wanted level, and some other additional features.
These are some fantastic benefits if you're a big GTA Online player, but GTA+ does also have something to offer with its game library...
Alongside its GTA Online benefits, GTA+ includes access to a range of Rockstar Games title. The selection changes on a regular basis, but right now the following GTA games can be played:
Grand Theft Auto 5 (PS5, Series X / S, PC)
Grand Theft Auto Online (PS5, Series X / S)
Grand Theft Auto: The Trilogy – The Definitive Edition (PS5/PS4, Xbox, PC)
Grand Theft Auto: Vice City - The Definitive Edition (Android, iOS)
Grand Theft Auto 3 - The Definitive Edition(Android, iOS)
Grand Theft Auto: Liberty City Stories (Android, iOS)
Grand Theft Auto: Chinatown Wars (Android, iOS)
That's not everything, though, as there are some titles from other series included too:
Bully (PS5/PS4, Xbox, PC, Android, iOS)
Red Dead Redemption (PS5/PS4, Xbox, PC)
L.A. Noire (PS5/PS4, Xbox, PC)
As you can see, the games are available on a wide range of platforms, with some even available for mobile devices.
Out of all the games here, I would recommend checking out Vice City the most ahead of GTA 6, either as part of Grand Theft Auto: The Trilogy – The Definitive Edition or its standalone The Definitive Edition version.
With GTA 6 set to take place in the same fictional city, it's likely going to offer important context and should get you up to speed ahead of the new game.
How much does GTA+ usually cost?
(Image credit: Rockstar)
One month of GTA+ usually costs $9.99 / £6.99 / A$11.95 per month.
If you do make use of the free month, remember to cancel the auto-renewal unless you wish to continue your subscription at those rates.
Have you finally decided to jump into Dungeons & Dragons? Well this guide is for you, as I’ve been playing the game for over a decade and have gathered up essential books and accessories you’ll need to go on your first adventure.
There’s no fluff here like D&D-inspired coffee cups or t-shirts; it’s all genuinely useful stuff that I’ve used in my own games (or very similar to the accessories I have at home).
Best of all, they’re all discounted for Amazon Prime Day. Scroll down for the collection of gear, or quickly read through my description of what each item is, and what it’s best for.
The Player’s Handbook, Dungeon Master’s Guide, and Monster Manual are known collectively as the core rulebooks; they have everything your playgroup will need to build characters and head out on an adventure together. They were revised in 2024 to make them more beginner-friendly and to update some rules, and they're some of the best places to start.
If you want more help with your adventures, the Heroes of Faerun, and Adventures of Faerun books are ideal for players and DMs who loved the Baldur’s Gate 3 setting. You’ll see familiar faces and places from those games, plus there are some premade adventures to help get the ball rolling on your own game. Alternatively, the Dragon Delves book will give you a collection of dragon-based adventures to enjoy if you want a more literal Dungeons and Dragons experience.
Then, if you’re playing in person, maps and tokens are super helpful at tracking where players and monsters are while they’re battling. Dice are also essential, you can’t play D&D without them, and a set of five should be enough to cover my preferred group size — four players and one Dungeon Master. Meanwhile, the DM screen and notebook are ideal for keeping track of story details, core D&D rules, and adding an air of mystery to what the DM is doing.
Finally, if you want to simply dip your toe into D&D, the Welcome to the Hellfire Club adventure is a box set with pre-made characters, DM notes, and everything you need to play out of the box. You might just want some extra dice.
WATCH ALL 104 games free – CazeTV YouTube (Brazil restricted)
Unblock YouTube with Norton VPN (try 60 days risk-free)
Looking to watch World Cup 2026 in Portugal for free? Selected games are free to watch, but not all of them. But needn't miss out – potentially, you can watch all 104 games for free. We'll explain below.
Despite qualifying for the FIFA World Cup every year since 2002, and making it to fourth place in Doha, Portugal has yet to win the world's biggest football tournament. Portugal arrives at the 2026 World Cup as the seventh-ranked team in the world, headed by Cristiano Ronaldo in his final World Cup.
If you're in Portugal for the World Cup and want to keep up with all 104 games, you have a couple of options. And if you're in another country but still want to catch the free Portuguese coverage, we've got you covered with an exclusive VPN deal.
Vamos! Here's out quick and easy guide to how to watch and stream World Cup 2026 in Portugal.
How to watch World Cup in Portugal (partially free)
In Portugal, all 104 games of World Cup 2026 are being shown by Sport TV, which starts at €25.99 per month or €20.99 per month when billed annually.
RTP, SIC and TVI jointly acquired rights to broadcast 20 matches free-to-air, including all Portugal matches, the opening game, both semifinals and the final.
RTP will show six matches, with SIC and TVI showing seven each.
Looking for free streams of all 104 games? If you're visiting Portugal from one of the countries below, you can watch all 104 games for free with a VPN!
REMEMBER: If you're traveling through Portugal while the World Cup is on, you can use a VPN to bypass geoblockers and access your local coverage. Norton VPN is our top pick of the options
Use a VPN to watch any World Cup 2026 stream
If you're traveling in Portugal from another country during World Cup 2026, you might find it difficult to access broadcasts from back home.
A VPN can help you watch geo-blocked content as if you were back at home, with a quick and secure connection – any of the best VPNs will do, but our pick is Norton VPN.
Watch your free World Cup stream without limits. Norton VPN delivers fast, secure connections with global servers, so you can stream from anywhere with ease.
💰 60-day money-back guarantee 🔓 Unlocks World Cup streams
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What to know about watching the World Cup in Portugal
Sport TV remains the premium World Cup destination
While key matches are available for free on RTP/SIC/TVI, Portuguese fans who want broader tournament coverage typically use Sport TV, which carries extensive coverage, analysis, studio shows and additional matches beyond the free-to-air package.
Portugal is still a very traditional TV market for football
Unlike some countries where major tournaments are predominantly streamed many Portuguese viewers still watch football through linear television (RTP, SIC, TVI, Sport TV). Conversely, the UK's BBC says live coverage streaming records "were broken in week one with France vs Senegal becoming the biggest ever UHD event on the BBC at over 600k concurrent streams.
Studio analysis is a major part of the viewing experience
Portuguese football broadcasts tend to be heavily analysis-driven. Sport TV especially positions itself as the "premium football" broadcaster in Portugal and uses a rotating pool of pundits including Nuno Gomes, Pedro Barbosa, Costinha, and André Martins.
What is the World Cup 2026 schedule?
(All times ET)
GROUP STAGE
Thursday, June 11 3pm – Mexico vs South Africa 10pm – South Korea vs Czech Republic
Friday, June 12 3pm – Canada vs Bosnia & Herzegovina 9pm – USA vs Paraguay
Saturday, June 13 3pm – Qatar vs Switzerland 6pm – Brazil vs Morocco 9pm – Haiti vs Scotland
Sunday, June 14 12am – Australia vs Turkey 1pm – Germany vs Curacao 4pm – Netherlands vs Japan 7pm – Ivory Coast vs Ecuador 10pm – Sweden vs Tunisia
Monday, June 15 12pm – Spain vs Cape Verde 3pm – Belgium vs Egypt 6pm – Saudi Arabia vs Uruguay 9pm – Iran vs New Zealand
Tuesday, June 16 3pm – France vs Senegal 6pm – Iraq vs Norway 9pm – Argentina vs Algeria
Wednesday, June 17 12am – Austria vs Jordan 1pm – Portugal vs DR Congo 4pm – England vs Croatia 7pm – Ghana vs Panama 10pm – Uzbekistan vs Colombia
Thursday, June 18 12pm – Czech Republic vs South Africa 3pm – Switzerland vs Bosnia & Herzegovina 6pm – Canada vs Qatar 9pm – Mexico vs South Korea
Friday, June 19 3pm – USA vs Australia 6pm – Scotland vs Morocco 9pm – Brazil vs Haiti
Saturday, June 20 12am – Turkey vs Paraguay 1pm – Netherlands vs Sweden 4pm – Germany vs Ivory Coast 8pm – Ecuador vs Curacao
Sunday, June 21 12am – Tunisia vs Japan 12pm – Spain vs Saudi Arabia 3pm – Belgium vs Iran 6pm – Uruguay vs Cape Verde 9pm – New Zealand vs Egypt
Monday, June 22 1pm – Argentina vs Austria 5pm – France vs Iraq 8pm – Norway vs Senegal 11pm – Jordan vs Algeria
Tuesday, June 23 1pm – Portugal vs Uzbekistan 4pm – England vs Ghana 7pm – Panama vs Croatia 10pm – Colombia vs DR Congo
Wednesday, June 24 3pm – Switzerland vs Canada 3pm – Bosnia & Herzegovina vs Qatar 6pm – Morocco vs Haiti 6pm – Scotland vs Brazil 9pm – South Africa vs South Korea 9pm – Czech Republic vs Mexico
Thursday, June 25 4pm – Curacao vs Ivory Coast 4pm – Ecuador vs Germany 7pm – Tunisia vs Netherlands 7pm – Japan vs Sweden 10pm – Turkey vs USA 10pm – Paraguay vs Australia
Friday, June 26 3pm – Norway vs France 3pm – Senegal vs Iraq 8pm – Cape Verde vs Saudi Arabia 8pm – Uruguay vs Spain 11pm – New Zealand vs Belgium 11pm – Egypt vs Iran
Saturday, June 27 5pm – Panama vs England 5pm – Croatia vs Ghana 7.30pm – Colombia vs Portugal 7.30pm – DR Congo vs Uzbekistan 10pm – Algeria vs Austria 10pm – Jordan vs Argentina
KNOCKOUT STAGE
ROUND OF 32
Sunday, June 28 3pm – A2 vs B2
Monday, June 29 1pm – C1 vs F2 4.30pm – E1 vs A/B/C/D/F3 9pm – F1 vs C2
Tuesday, June 30 1pm – E2 vs I2 5pm – I1 vs C/D/F/G/H3 9pm – A1 vs C/E/F/H/I3
Wednesday, July 1 12pm – L1 vs E/H/I/J/K3 4pm – G1 vs A/E/H/I/J3 8pm – D1 vs B/E/F/I/J3
Thursday, July 2 3pm – H1 vs J2 7pm – K2 vs L2 11pm – B1 vs E/F/G/I/J3
Friday, July 3 2pm – D2 vs G2 6pm – J1 vs H2 9.30pm – K1 vs D/E/I/J/L3
ROUND OF 16
Saturday, July 4 1pm – Round of 16 game 1 5pm – Round of 16 game 2
Sunday, July 5 4pm – Round of 16 game 3 8pm – Round of 16 game 4
Monday, July 6 3pm – Round of 16 game 5 8pm – Round of 16 game 6
Tuesday, July 7 12pm – Round of 16 game 7 4pm – Round of 16 game 8
How can I watch Portuguese-language World Cup streams on YouTube?
Over in Brazil, CazeTV is streaming all 104 World Cup 2026 games for free via its YouTube channel with Portuguese-language commentary and analysis, but access is limited to those in Brazil.
If you're traveling in Portugal during the World Cup, but still want to keep up with CazeTV's World Cup 2026 coverage, you can use a VPN and set your location back to Brazil.
We test and review VPN services in the context of legal recreational uses. For example:1. Accessing a service from another country (subject to the terms and conditions of that service).2. Protecting your online security and strengthening your online privacy when abroad.We do not support or condone the illegal or malicious use of VPN services. Consuming pirated content that is paid-for is neither endorsed nor approved by Future Publishing.
This week's Prime Day sale at Amazon features hundreds of price cuts on laptops of all shapes and sizes. You would expect that, given it's the biggest sale of the year at the retailer. Between you and me, however, I usually find rival retailer sales to offer just as good discounts.
In fact, having scanned through various sales, I'd say retailers like Dell, Best Buy, and Walmart are really giving Amazon a run for its money during its big day.
Just below, you can see 13 laptop deals that you won't find on Amazon today, with options starting at just $159. That includes Chromebooks, cheap Windows 11 options, and plenty of gaming laptops. Yes, even gaming laptops have relatively good deals today, despite the ongoing RAM crisis.
I'd also highlight the latest MacBook Air 13 for $949 (was $1,099) at Best Buy as another great option because the retailer's trade-in program is really solid. You can see all of these deals, and other 'anti-Prime Day' listings, just down below.
If you're looking for a machine that can just cover the basics, then this 14-inch Chromebook is easily one of the cheapest ways to do so. OK, so an Intel Celeron chipset and 4GB of RAM isn't exactly world-beating in terms of power, but you really don't need much to run a Chromebook. We've been impressed by HP's Chromebooks when we've reviewed them, so this is definitely a good low-cost option. View Deal
The Acer Aspire Go 15 is a lightweight and surprisingly powerful laptop for the price. We reviewed it last year and scored it an impressive four stars out of five. Although it's not a high-end laptop by any stretch, it is very usable, lightweight, and features plenty of ports. This particular configuration features a Ryzen 7 chipset, meaning it's powerful enough to take on most applications.View Deal
In terms of sheer bang for the buck, you'll be hard-pressed to find a better option than this Dell 16 at the official Dell Store today. The standard 16-inch laptop isn't as fancy as some of the higher-end options at Dell, but this workhorse machine features a powerful Ryzen 7 chipset and 16GB of RAM — enough to tackle most tasks. If you just want a powerful machine for working from home, then this is a fantastic option.View Deal
high-end laptops
Processor: AMD Ryzen AI 7 350 RAM: 16GB Storage: 1TB
The Dell 14 Plus is one of our favorite models from Dell in the past few years. It really surprised us when we reviewed it because it offers great performance and a well-thought-out design at an excellent price. Today's best deal is on this Ryzen 7-equipped configuration, which offers plenty of power in this machine's portable 14-inch form factor. View Deal
Best Buy has just posted a great deal for the latest Apple MacBook Air 13 — an excellent laptop by all accounts. With an impressive $150 discount, this deal addresses our main complaint with the M5 Air: namely, that it's pricier than the previous model. Now, you're getting the latest chipset, 16GB of RAM, and a bigger 512GB SSD for much less, with a price that arguably challenges even the budget MacBook Neo when it comes to outright value. Note that this machine has been $50 cheaper before, but Best Buy's trade-in program is particularly good for getting a much cheaper device. View Deal
Processor: Snapdragon X Elite RAM: 32GB Storage: 512GB
One of the best deals on the entire Dell site is undoubtedly this discount on the latest Snapdragon-equipped Dell XPS 13. This stylish and lightweight machine is perfect for those who want battery life and performance in a premium package. This particular configuration also includes 32GB of RAM, which is a very rare thing indeed these days at this price. Note, this is a Snapdragon chipset model, however, so make sure all your obscure apps are supported.View Deal
If you'd prefer an Intel-based Dell XPS 13, the best option is this Ultra-7 configuration. While not quite as good bang for the buck as the Snapdragon configuration above, this is still a great deal on a very powerful machine. The Ultra 7 chipset here still provides great battery life, despite being an Intel-based option. View Deal
A powerful chipset, stunning design, and high-end OLED display — what's not to love with the Yoga Slim 7x? This 14-inch machine really impressed us when we reviewed it, and while it's still quite pricey, today's discount at the official Lenovo Store really helps offset the blow. If you're looking for a special, high-end laptop, then this is a great option this week.View Deal
This MSI Cyborg 15 at Walmart is one of the cheapest gaming laptops I've seen in recent months to feature an RTX 5070 graphics card. That's usually a pretty pricey component, but surprisingly, you're also getting a decent chipset and a 1TB SSD here. Annoyingly, you do only get 16GB of RAM, which will hamper your performance headroom somewhat.View Deal
The above Acer Nitro V Slim 16 also comes in an Intel-based configuration, which is also a decent buy today. It's a little pricier, but you get an Intel Core 7 Series 2 chipset and 16GB of DDR5 RAM. These should, on paper at least, give you a decent boost in performance.View Deal
This Acer Predator Helios Neo 16S might seem like it's a little on the pricey side for a machine with an RTX 5060, but this is a great price on this premium model. Not only do you get a powerful Intel Core Ultra 9 chipset under the hood here, but this Predator Helios Neo 16S also features a high-end OLED display, which is a notch above the usual panels you find on cheaper machines.View Deal
The price cut on this HP Omen 16 at Best Buy isn't huge, but it's still one of the best value RTX 5070 gaming laptops you'll find on the market this week. Pairing up your RTX 5070 with a powerful Intel Ultra 9 chipset means plenty of headroom for all the latest titles. Annoyingly, this machine only comes with 16GB of RAM, but you do get a spacious 1TB SSD as a bonus.View Deal
A number of Alienware gaming laptops are on sale today, but my favorite deal has to be this listing on the brand-new Alienware 15. While a little pricey for a machine with an RTX 5060 graphics card, you get 32GB of RAM and an Intel Core 7 chipset here for great out-of-the-box performance. Considering this machine features a 1200p display, you've got everything you need here for smooth performance in-game.View Deal
Prime Dayisn't just about Amazon anymore. The same great discounts can be found at other retailers, and crucially, you don't have to be an Amazon Prime member to unlock these savings.
I've taken a look at some of the best deals for vacuums and coffee machines at Amazon, and found a bunch of the same savings at Argos. In fact, two are actually better priced than Amazon's own discounts.
I've included both of these deals in the list below, alongside a few other great vacuum and coffee machine deals at Argos that match the same discounts at Amazon. Have you found better deals at Argos? Let me know in the comments below.
Today's best coffee machine deals at Argos
Save an extra 10% with code: ELEC10 Promising simplicity of use, the De'Longhi Magnifica Start has an easy-to-use touch control panel that allows you to brew two cups simultaneously with the minimum amount of effort. Just remember to put in the above voucher code at checkout to unlock the super low sale price.
Save an extra 40% with code: ELEC40 This has an initial discount bringing it from £95 to £69, then you can apply a 40% code at the checkout to unlock the bigger discount. It's a slick, narrow pod coffee machine that's great for smaller kitchens.
We've spotted the same excellent price drop on the Nespresso Barista Bundle by De'longhi at Argos as we have at Amazon. You can unlock the 50% off saving by using code: ELEC50 at checkout.
The V12 is a scaled-down vacuum that's perfect for smaller homes. It has premium features, including real-time dust reports, automatic suction adjustment and floorhead lasers. And right now Argos is offering a fantastic saving that you won't find at Amazon.
Score the Dyson V8 Absolute Cordless Vacuum for less at Argos right now. The same 29% off saving can be found at Amazon, making this deal a great option for anyone who isn't a Prime member.
Save an extra 30% with code: ELEC30 This has the stick-like design of a cordless vac, but is lighter since it doesn't have batteries to weigh it down. And it has Shark's Anti Hair Wrap design, plus PowerDetect tech so it's as effective when you're pulling it backwards as when you're pushing forwards, making it all much more efficient.
Two teams drinking in the last chance saloon meet in their final Group B fixture at FIFA World Cup 2026 as Bosnia and Herzegovina face Qatar – and you can live stream the game around the world for free.
Draw specialists Bosnia looked on track for a stalemate with Switzerland in Los Angeles on Thursday, only to concede four goals and have centre back Tarik Muharemovic sent off in a mad final quarter of an hour as they lost 4-1. With Muharemovic now suspended for the clash with Qatar in Seattle, manager Sergej Barbarez has a decision to make at the heart of his defence for a huge game where nothing less than three points will do if they are to reach the knockout phase. Bosnia aren't exactly used to winning, either, having failed to claim a victory in normal time in each of their past seven games – although they did draw the first six of those.
After the high of scoring a late equaliser against the Swiss to claim their first-ever FIFA World Cup point, Qatar came crashing back down to earth in their 6-0 hammering by co-hosts Canada, in which they had Homam El Amin and Assim Madibo sent off. The latter player was dismissed for a leg-breaking challenge on Ismael Kone which left both teams visibly shaken, and it remains to be seen what impact that will have on Qatar going into this must-win clash. Manager Julen Lopetegui will need all his experience to plot how his side can claim their first World Cup victory, which would surely seal a place in the last 32.
So, read on as we show you exactly how to watch Bosnia and Herzegovina vs Qatar for free from anywhere in the FIFA World Cup 2026.
Bosnia and Herzegovina vs Qatar: Team News
Bosnia and Herzegovina XI: Vasilj; Radeljic, Katic, Malic, Kolasinac; Bajraktarevic, Sunjic, Basic, Alajbegovic; Demirovic, Dzeko.
Qatar XI: Abunada; Miguel, Khoukhi, Laye, Al Brake; Gaber, Fathy, Boudiaf; Al Haydos, Afif, Edmilson Jr.
How to watch Bosnia and Herzegovina vs Qatar for free
Bosnia and Herzegovina vs Qatar is available to watch for free in multiple countries, including the UK, Australia, Brazil, Belgium, Ireland, Netherlands, Switzerland and Turkey.
Abroad? Can't access your free stream? Unblock your free World Cup stream with Norton VPN — more on that below.
Use a VPN to watch Bosnia and Herzegovina vs Qatar live streams
It’s the World Cup, and if you’re traveling, you might discover your usual Bosnia and Herzegovina vs Qatar stream is suddenly unavailable due to geo-restrictions.
Don’t worry, that’s exactly where a VPN can help. A virtual private network lets you connect to servers around the world so you can securely access your usual World Cup coverage as if you were back home.
Watch your free World Cup stream without limits. Norton VPN delivers fast, secure connections with global servers, so you can stream from anywhere with ease.
💰 60-day money-back guarantee 🔓 Unlocks World Cup streams
Don’t miss a second. Stream the World Cup from anywhere with total confidence.View Deal
How to watch Bosnia and Herzegovina vs Qatar in the US
US viewers can watch Bosnia and Herzegovina vs Qatar on FS1.
Defenders: Hashmi Hussein (Al Arabi), Ayoub Alawi (Al Gharafa), Boualem Khoukhi (Al-Sadd), Pedro Miguel (Al-Sadd), Issa Laaye (Al Arabi), Lucas Mendes (Al-Wakrah), Sultan Al-Brake (Al-Duhail).
Midfielders: Mohammed Al-Manai (Al Shamal), Jassem Jaber (Al Arabi), Karim Boudiaf (Al-Duhail), Ahmed Fathi (Al Arabi), Abdulaziz Hatem (Al Rayyan).
Forwards: Tahseen Mohammed (Al-Duhail), Edmilson Junior (Al-Duhail), Almoez Ali (Al-Duhail), Akram Afif (Al-Sadd), Mohammed Muntari (Al Gharafa), Youssef Abdulrazzaq (Al-Wakrah), Ahmed Alaa (Al Rayyan), Hassan Al-Haydos (Al-Sadd), Ahmed Al-Janahi (Al Gharafa).
Group B Table
Position
Team
GD
Points
1
Canada
6
4
2
Switzerland
3
4
3
Bosnia and Herzegovina
-3
1
4
Qatar
-6
1
Can I watch Bosnia and Herzegovina vs Qatar on my mobile?
Of course, most broadcasters have streaming services that you can access through mobile apps or via your phone's browser.
You can also stay up-to-date with all of the key World Cup moments on the official social media channels on X/Twitter (@FIFAWorldCup), Instagram (@FIFAWorldCup), TikTok (@FIFAWorldCup) and YouTube (@FIFA).
We test and review VPN services in the context of legal recreational uses. For example:1. Accessing a service from another country (subject to the terms and conditions of that service).2. Protecting your online security and strengthening your online privacy when abroad.We do not support or condone the illegal or malicious use of VPN services. Consuming pirated content that is paid-for is neither endorsed nor approved by Future Publishing.
Broadcom and OpenAI reveal custom AI chip called Jalapeño
It is the first of a family of processors designed from ground up for inference and agentic AI
Global rollout is expected in 2027
Broadcom and OpenAI have finally announced their first custom chip, dubbed Jalapeño, designed from ground up by OpenAI for ChatGPT, Codex and 'future agentic products'.
JIP, for Jalapeño Intelligence Processor, is inference-native and little is known about the hardware. A closer look at the packaged chip (lower left of the picture below) leads me to believe that the ASIC silicon is surrounded by eight HBM stacks to reduce latency to a minimum.
OpenAI disclosed that it only took nine months for the chips to be designed and delivered, something that usually takes years, especially with an entirely new architecture. Company President Greg Brockman highlighted the role of ChatGPT as a virtual chip architect, which 'accelerated the tape-out', which he described as surprising.
(Image credit: OpenAI)
Jalapeño Intelligence Processor
The 300mm wafer that both CEOs are holding will generate about 50 to 60 ASICs.
Engineering samples of Jalapeño have been running ML workloads including GPT-5.3-Codex-Spark, OpenAI’s first model designed for real-time coding and designed to be used with Cerebras’s huge WSE (Wafer Scale Engine).
OpenAI is following the footsteps of Apple, AWS, Google and many others that want to control the hardware, the software and the infrastructure - the so-called “full stack”. Elon Musk’s SpaceX wants to go a step beyond by being the only one that also builds the actual chips.
While the focus is on Jalapeño, OpenAI will also partner with Celestica and Broadcom to build the rack systems and the network infrastructure that surrounds the intelligence processor.
This should lead to much lower prices, more feature differentiation (against objective rivals - and Broadcom customers) and faster time to market.
AGI (and Team Green) in sight?
The small print of the photo showing OpenAI CEO Sam Altman and Broadcom CEO Hock Tan spelt out a surprising motto. "May we scale smoothly, exponentially and uneventfully through AGI".
Jalapeño and its successors may well be instrumental to 'reaching' Artificial General Intelligence. The press release mentions a 'multi-generation' compute platform and I wouldn't be surprised if the future iterations notch up the heat with chilli names like Serrano, Cayenne, Habanero and Moruga.
Tan told CNBC there will be a small prototype development by the end of 2026, adding, "We will start seeing it really ramp up in ’27 and really going full tilt in first half ’28". Whispers of the collaboration were first heard in July 2024 with an official announcement made at GITEX in October 2025.
OpenAI has signed a flurry of strategic agreements with the likes of AMD, AWS and Cerebras to secure enough AI chips and reduce its dependency on Nvidia. Likewise, Broadcom has positioned itself as a key provider for anyone with deep enough pockets to yearn for their own hardware.
Other than OpenAI, Google, Meta, and ByteDance are also likely customers with Anthropic, Apple and Fujitsu craving for Broadcom's expertise in ASIC and its custom AI accelerator portfolio.
Becoming the kingmaker will help Broadcom close the gap between itself and Team Green, the nickname given to Nvidia.
In a veiled dig towards the world’s most valuable company, OpenAI said that its new platform was “not a general-purpose accelerator adapted from earlier AI workloads”, a clear allusion to Nvidia GPUs that were used for training.
The next big iteration of ChatGPT, GPT-5.6 is expected to be released this week.
A ‘digital hire’ won’t replace a skilled employee, but it can help automate many of the time-consuming tasks that eat up their day.
Until recently, AI chatbots like ChatGPT and Gemini answered questions, did research, and made suggestions – offering advice, but not actually taking action. Now, thanks to AI agents like OpenClaw and Hermes, AI can interact with other platforms, allowing it to take action like writing and sending emails, updating your schedule, or scheduling social media posts.
In this guide, we explore everything you need to get started with a 'digital employee'.
Getting started
You’ll need a few things before you can get going with your new ‘digital employee’.
First, you’ll need to pick an AI assistant. There are a few available; OpenClaw is the most popular, closely followed by Hermes. To run your AI agents safely, you’ll likely want to host them on a Virtual Private Server (VPS). Once this is set up, you can then communicate with it via a platform of your choice, such as WhatsApp, Telegram, or Slack.
The VPS is the ‘computer’ doing the heavy lifting, and you can communicate with your AI agent via an app on your phone. So, you don’t really need a powerful computer to run your agents. However, investing in a decent laptop will make it easier to manage workflows, along with the rest of your business, whilst on the go.
Exactly what you have your agent do for you will depend on the nature of your business and your own unique set of skills. Here are a few platforms you may want to explore pairing your agent with, depending on what you want to achieve:
Giving AI agents access to sensitive business information, such as financial data, customer data, and emails, carries risks. Using a dedicated VPS goes some way to protecting you.
However, it is important that you take the time to fully understand the risks associated with using AI agents and the steps you can take to mitigate them.
Grand Theft Auto 6 will have a Standard and Ultimate Edition
The Ultimate Edition is the premium version that comes with a host of exclusive features
Pre-ordering any edition will grant the Vintage Vice City Pack
Rockstar Games has officially revealed that Grand Theft Auto 6 will only have two versions at launch: Standard and Ultimate Edition.
It's not what many expected, but there are some major differences between the two.
If you're on the fence about what form your GTA 6 pre-order will take when it comes to the edition, here's everything you need to know about both.
Price
(Image credit: Rockstar Games)
The Standard Edition will cost $79.99, which isn't too expensive for the most highly anticipated game of all time, while the Ultimate Edition is priced at $99.99.
No disc in physical editions
(Image credit: Rockstar Games)
Rockstar has confirmed that those who pre-order digital versions of GTA 6 can begin pre-loading on November 12, seven days in advance of the game's launch on November 19.
It's unfortunate, but the physical version will be available starting November 12 to support pre-loading.
What's included in the Standard Edition?
(Image credit: Rockstar Games)
As is typical with most games, the GTA 6 Standard Edition will only come with the base game and no additional add-ons, unlike its more premium counterpart.
What's included in the Ultimate Edition?
(Image credit: Rockstar Games)
Being the more costly edition of the game, the Ultimate Edition will come with an exclusive collection of "premium vehicles, weapons, apparel, and action around every corner."
"Ultimate Edition bonuses are threaded across all aspects of Jason and Lucia’s story, with new items uncovered behind each chapter," Rockstar teased.
The Ultimate Edition exclusive features include:
The '95 Gotti Cheetah vehicle
Hawk & Little Morgan Revolvers - His and hers versions of this powerful revolver with classic Vice City stylings sourced from the Vercetti Estate, including palm-tree-etched grips, engraved detailing, and high-performance scope
Personalized variant weapons - Personalized sidearms with detailed engravings for Jason's Girardi ES9 pistol and Lucia's Klose K17 pistol.
Exclusive Vice City Style outfits, tattoos, and more for Lucia and Jason
Jason's safehouse vehicles -including an Army fatigue-tinged Dinka Enduro motorcycle or Crest Kayak
Jason's Vapid Ganado low-riding pickup with exclusive mods
Rideout Customs - a mod-shop to customize vanilla vehicles
Sara's unisex hair salon - facial hair and hairstyles for both Lucia and Jason, and makeup and nails for Lucia
Shitzu Squalo boat with an explosives-laden weapons crate
Stock 305clothing store - featuring various unique and exclusive looks for Jason and Lucia at Stockyard’s premier destination for elevated streetwear
'67 VAPID Dominator Buggy - can be stored at the Paradise Garage in Watson Bay, which features a weapon locker plus a secure place to deposit stolen goods to be fenced
Electric Fang Tattoo Shop - featuring over 50 tattoos for Lucia and Jason
One-eyed Willie's mod shop in Lake Leonida
Goodtime Gear - a capsule collection of apparel and accessories inspired by the Goodtime State’s hit TV show character, Macca the Gator
PTT Younging$ Illegal Goods Store - a gang compound in Southside Vice City to score some special items and distinct contraband
Classic Car Collection - Track down a variety of abandoned classic and work-in-progress project cars and revitalize them to their former glory in this special commission from eccentric collector and local fixer, Wyman
Vintage Vice City Pack pre-order goodies
(Image credit: Rockstar Games)
Players who pre-order or purchase any edition of the game before November 20 will receive a code for the Vintage Vice City Pack, "a collection of items that flash back to when the neon burned brightest."
The Vintage City Pack includes:
’55 Vapid Stanier vehicle - can be stored in the Shore Court personal garage by Ocean Beach
Outfits and hairstyles - a linen, vintage pastel suit for Jason and a red sequin mini dress and curls for Lucia
Weapon pattern - inspired by Tommy Vercetti's iconic palm tree button-up
GTA 6 launches on November 19 for PS5, Xbox Series X and Series S.
If you're interested in placing a physical pre-order as quickly as possible, you can check and save the search links below.
I don’t run or jog and I’m not overly obsessed with statistics about how well I slept and how many steps I’ve taken today, but I think it’s time I got a smartwatch again.
But after researching the Vivoactive range for a little while I decided I actually wanted the Garmin Vivoactive 6 (currently on our best Garmin watches list) and the chance of saving 25% was too tempting — I was sold.
Today's best Garmin Vivoactive 6 deals
To get this great price on the Garmin Vívoactive 6 with 42mm GPS smartwatch, AMOLED touchscreen, all-day health monitoring, fitness features, advanced sleep coaching, Music and more, you have to choose the pebble grey model.View Deal
The Garmin Vivoactive 5 GPS smartwatch has a superb price cut, with a massive 33% off thanks to Amazon Prime Day.View Deal
Slave to technology
It’s not that I hated my Apple Watch, I just couldn’t be bothered to keep charging it every day. I actually started to resent the watch because it was forcing me into this daily ritual of caring for it that felt like I was a slave to technology, not the other way around.
The main thing that attracted me to the Garmin was that it’s got an 11-day battery life. Why hasn’t Apple made something that will last that long on a single charge? Yes, I know that you can do more with an Apple Watch, but I rarely used the voice control features.
I have definitely missed some aspects of not having a smartwatch. For example, notifications on my wrist are a lot easier to deal with than having to fish my phone out of my jeans pocket to see the latest Whatsapp from a family member.
It’s the same with payments — having the device on my wrist would make it a lot easier to pay for things when my hands are full. And finally, general health tracking, including sleep tracking, would be nice to get back into. I’ve got more and more curious about what kind of sleep quality I’m getting, and even if it’s just counting my steps all day. I miss having all those stats at my fingertips.
Body Battery Score
There is a Garmin subscription service called Garmin Connect+ that has AI and coaching features I don’t want or need, but you’re not required to join it to get any of the watch’s features to work. All the health and fitness features remain gloriously subscription-free.
In fact, the only downside I can see with the Garmin is to do with transferring music to it. I’ve got a subscription to Apple Music, not Spotify, and you need Amazon Music or Spotify Premium to transfer music to a Garmin. (You can transfer MP3 files you've purchased, of course), but if I eventually get back into jogging I might have to be content with podcasts if I want to leave my phone behind.
I'm looking forward to getting to play with a smartwatch again, and to seeing whether Garmin's much-praised Body Battery score really is as useful as its fans claim. But mostly, I'm curious to find out whether a smartwatch has finally become something I actually want to wear every day.
The irony is that the feature that brought me back isn't AI, advanced health tracking, or even fitness coaching. It's battery life. After years of increasingly clever gadgets demanding more of my attention, the thing that finally tempted me back was a watch that promises to stay out of the way for nearly two weeks at a time.
If the Vivoactive 6 can manage that while quietly handling my notifications, music, payments, and the occasional sleep report, then it might just convince me that smartwatches were worth another chance after all.
This Apple Watch Series 11 has a Jet Black Aluminium Case with Black Sport Band, Sleep Score, Health Monitoring, Always-On Display and more. You can get a great 21% off thanks to Amazon Prime Day.View Deal
Finally, Rockstar Games has announced GTA 6's price, which retails at $79.99 (likely £75 / AU$114.40), and the excitement has unsurprisingly reached an all-time high among gamers.
With the game now locked in for a November 19 launch, there are plenty of ways to get prepared for gaming's biggest event in decades. Whether that's via buying a PS5, PS5 Pro, Xbox Series X, or Xbox Series S console, or acquiring necessary accessories, this announcement comes at a perfect time.
It's Prime Day, and if you're a PS5 owner, you're in luck, as several deals on headsets and controllers will certainly come in handy once the long-awaited day finally arrives later this November.
Another big highlight is the Razer BlackShark V3, which is available for $85.49 (was $149.99), a wireless gaming headset that prioritizes great surround sound audio, long battery life, and ultra-low latency.
Effectively, there's something for everyone this Prime Day — and it's one of the best times to prepare for one of the biggest games of all-time and celebrate your GTA 6 pre-order.
Today's best Prime Day controller & headset deals in the US
Save big on Razer's high-quality Esports-grade Raiju V3 Pro controller, officially designed for the PlayStation 5 console. With six remappable buttons, TMR thumbsticks, and fast triggers, there's plenty of customization at your disposal.View Deal
The Logitech G Pro X 2 Lightspeed wireless gaming headset is a fantastic option for both PS5 and PC players, particularly Esports players, with audio thanks to the 50mm graphene drivers providing fantastic sound, and its lengthy battery life. View Deal
If affordability is key for you, the Logitech G321 Lightspeed headset will do you just right, thanks to the 29% discount. It features 20-plus hours of battery, high-performing audio drivers, and compatibility with PS5, PS4, PC, and the Nintendo Switch 2.View Deal
The Razer BlackShark V3 is one of the best gaming headset options this Prime Day, featuring a super wideband mic, 50mm drivers for top quality audio, compatible with PS5, PC, Mac, and the Nintendo Switch.View Deal
Today's best Prime Day controller & headset deals in the UK
The Razer Raiju V3 Pro is a solid option for Esports gamers, but also for any PS5 or PC gamer looking to add some flexibility to their game controller, via several customization options. It features 6 remappable buttons, Razer Pro HyperTriggers Instant for rapid-fire clicks, and ultra-low latency. View Deal
The Razer BlackShark V3 Pro is an excellent choice for active noise-cancelling audio, via its hybrid active noise cancellation feature, Razer TriForce 50mm drivers for crystal-clear audio, and THX spatial audio for 3D positional audio. It's notably compatible with PS5 and PC, and can stay connected to two devices at once. View Deal
The Logitech G321 Lightspeed wireless gaming headset is great for users seeking a headset that prioritizes comfort, whilst also delivering wide-range compatibility and a long battery life. It'll work on PC, PS5, PS4, and the Nintendo Switch.View Deal
The Logitech G Pro X 2 Lightspeed wireless gaming headset is easily one of the best Prime Day gaming headset deals you can find, at 40% off, for fantastic audio quality, a detachable boom mic, and multiple connection options across PC, PS5, PS4, and Nintendo Switch.View Deal
Co-hosts Canada face Switzerland in Vancouver knowing they will finish top of Group B at the FIFA World Cup 2026 if they avoid defeat – and you can live stream the game around the world for free.
It's not often that a 6-0 victory can leave you feeling a bit hollow, but you could forgive Canada's staff and players for being a little flat following their thrashing of Qatar after the game was overshadowed by a serious leg injury to midfielder Ismael Kone. The incident left manager Jesse Marsch in tears and emotions continued to run high when substitute Nathan Saliba, who came on for Kone, scored the co-hosts' fourth and held up his team-mate's shirt in tribute. Marsch and his players must refocus quickly as they return to BC Place, where they will be boosted by captain Alphonso Davies' return to the bench after a hamstring injury. Their reward for avoiding defeat will not just be top spot in Group B, but also a last-32 fixture back here in Vancouver.
After a frustrating 1-1 draw with Qatar and a goalless opening 70 minutes against Bosnia and Herzegovina, Switzerland's World Cup burst into life with four late goals to beat the latter 4-1 in Los Angeles. The chief architects of that victory were substitutes Johan Manzambi and Ruben Vargas, who were involved in all four goals. Manzambi scored twice while Vargas added a goal and an assist, with both surely in contention to start against Canada. Switzerland's place in a fourth successive knockout stage is already all-but assured but they trail the co-hosts on goal difference, so manager Murat Yakin might as well go for the victory that would leapfrog them above today's opponents and finish top of Group B.
Though unlikely, neither side is guaranteed progress, though, so both will seek the point to secure the knockouts.
So, read on as we show you exactly how to watch Switzerland vs Canada for free from anywhere in the FIFA World Cup 2026.
Switzerland vs Canada is available to watch for free in multiple countries, including the UK, Australia, Brazil, Belgium, Ireland, Netherlands, Switzerland and Turkey.
Abroad? Can't access your free stream? Unblock your free World Cup stream with Norton VPN — more on that below.
Use a VPN to watch Switzerland vs Canada live streams
It’s the World Cup, and if you’re traveling, you might discover your usual Switzerland vs Canada stream is suddenly unavailable due to geo-restrictions.
Don’t worry, that’s exactly where a VPN can help. A virtual private network lets you connect to servers around the world so you can securely access your usual World Cup coverage as if you were back home.
Watch your free World Cup stream without limits. Norton VPN delivers fast, secure connections with global servers, so you can stream from anywhere with ease.
💰 60-day money-back guarantee 🔓 Unlocks World Cup streams
Don’t miss a second. Stream the World Cup from anywhere with total confidence.View Deal
How to watch Switzerland vs Canada in the US
US viewers can watch Switzerland vs Canada on Fox.
Goalkeepers: Dayne St Clair (Inter Miami), Maxime Crepeau (Orlando City), Owen Goodman (Crystal Palace).
Defenders: Alistair Johnston (Celtic), Derek Cornelius (Marseille), Richie Laryea (Toronto), Niko Sigur (Hajduk Split), Joel Waterman (Chicago Fire), Luc de Fougerolles (Fulham), Moise Bombito (Nice), Alphonso Davies (Bayern Munich), Alfie Jones (Middlesbrough).
Midfielders: Stephen Eustaquio (Porto), Tajon Buchanan (Villarreal), Mathieu Choiniere (Los Angeles FC), Ali Ahmed (Norwich City), Nathan Saliba (Anderlecht), Liam Millar (Hull City), Marcelo Flores (Tigres UANL), Jacob Shaffelburg (Toronto), Jonathan Osorio (Toronto).
Forwards: Jonathan David (Juventus), Cyle Larin (Southampton), Tani Oluwaseyi (Villarreal), Promise David (Union SG).
Group B Table
Position
Team
GD
Points
1
Canada
6
4
2
Switzerland
3
4
3
Bosnia and Herzegovina
-3
1
4
Qatar
-6
1
Can I watch Switzerland vs Canada on my mobile?
Of course, most broadcasters have streaming services that you can access through mobile apps or via your phone's browser.
You can also stay up-to-date with all of the key World Cup moments on the official social media channels on X/Twitter (@FIFAWorldCup), Instagram (@FIFAWorldCup), TikTok (@FIFAWorldCup) and YouTube (@FIFA).
We test and review VPN services in the context of legal recreational uses. For example:1. Accessing a service from another country (subject to the terms and conditions of that service).2. Protecting your online security and strengthening your online privacy when abroad.We do not support or condone the illegal or malicious use of VPN services. Consuming pirated content that is paid-for is neither endorsed nor approved by Future Publishing.
The Geekom Amazon Prime Day deals have landed - and I've picked out the mini PCs you won't want to miss based on our extensive benchmarking.
For me, there are two contenders in the sales. The Geekom A6 for $500 (was $649) - this is a phenomenal machine for work and study, scoring 4.5 stars in our tests. If you're choosing between this and the A5, go with this. It has the better specs and performance.
At the other end of the scale, the Geekom A9 Max for $1190 (was $1399) is a beast, and one of my favorite Geekom mini PCs. It performed exceptionally well during tests for those that need a Windows 11 AI mini PC. Check out the full line-up below, alongside our review scores. For more top picks, see our round up of the best mini PCs my team and I tested.
Geekom's Amazon Prime Day deals
AMD Ryzen 7 6800H | 16GB DDR5 | 1TB SSD
One of the best Geekom mini PCs for those who want to run office software and light content creation tasks. We found this packs in plenty of power for day-to-day tasks. ★★★★⯪
Hands down, this is one of the best Windows mini PCs we've ever tested and one of my personal favorites. In testing, this AI-ready machine delivered desktop-class performance. ★★★★⯪
The A5 is a solid all-rounder for work and study - if you're heading back to school or the office, this is the Geekom mini PC to go for. It's not a powerhouse, but it is a workhorse. ★★★★☆
A genuine powerhouse for office professionals and developers, with the specs to prove it, including quad display support. We enjoyed our time with its predecessor, but this one is a serious step up. View Deal
AMD Ryzen 5 7430U | 16GB DDR4 | 512GB SSD
The impressive A5 Pro is a moderate upgrade on the A5 for business professionals and students who need a stylish all-metal mini PC for the home and office. ★★★★☆
The metal Geekom A8 is a stylish looking performer that has ports galore and solid graphical performance. We found it well-suited to multi-taskers. ★★★★☆
This is one of those mini PCs I recommend for tinkerers. it's not a bad machine, but it scored lower in our tests because you'll want to upgrade the memory if you want the best results. ★★★⯪☆
The GT13 Max is another flagship Intel machine from Geekom that delivers high-performance specs with a focus on business professionals and coders. You might even squeeze some light gaming from it. View Deal
In his bid for a record-equalling fifth Tour de France title, Tadej Pogacar is going to have to see off fierce competition from arch-rival Jonas Vingegaard and teenage sensation Paul Seixas when the 2026 Tour de France starts on July 4.
Only Jacques Anquetil, Eddy Merckx, Bernard Hinault and Miguel Indurain have secured the maillot jaune more times than Pogacar, but whereas they were in their thirties or thereabouts (Merckx was 29) when they achieved the feat, Pogacar is still just 27 years old.
Then again, Anquetil's period of dominance fed into the era of Merckx, which in turn preceded the heydey of Hinault, which faded just as the epoch of Indurain appeared on the horizon. Then came Lance Armstrong, followed by Chris Froome, and now Pogacar and Vingegaard have split the last six editions of the race between them.
In other words, although we've never seen a cycling rivalry this fearsome and this sustained before, nothing can be taken for granted. Perhaps Seixas – or Pogacar's UAE Team Emirates XRG teammate Isaac del Toro – will be the man to usher in a new era.
You can watch all 21 stages for free in Australia, with free daily highlights in the UK. Abroad? We'll show you how to watch the Tour de France free from anywhere with a good VPN – our favourite NordVPN comes with up to 75% off.
Can I stream Tour de France 2026 for free?
Yes. Tour de France 2026 will be streamed live and free in many countries around the world, with the best English-language coverage available in Australia and the UK.
Abroad during the TdF? You can use a NordVPN (try 100% risk-free) to watch all the action free of charge as if you were right at home.
Use a VPN to watch any Tour de France 2026 stream
Why is a VPN a good option to watch Tour de France 2026?
Taking place July 4-26, Tour de France 2026 coincides with peak summer vacation season. Unfortunately, you may find that your usual streaming options are geoblocked while you’re away.
That’s where a VPN comes in handy – not only does it let you access your home streaming services from anywhere, but it also protects you from potential online threats. We recommend NordVPN – it does everything and will unblock any free streaming service for you to watch the action.
Not having a VPN is like leaving your front door wide open in a busy city – anyone can walk right in and take a peek.
TechRadar regularly reviews all the biggest and best VPN providers and NordVPN is our #1 choice.
✅ Up to 75% off today ✅ 3 extra months free ✅ Unlocks SBS on Demand and 5
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What devices are supported by SBS on Demand, 5 and Norton VPN?
Amazon Fire Stick (Fire OS 8 and up) Android (Android 10.0 and up) Android TV / Google TV (Android TV OS 10.0 and up) iOS (latest 2 versions) iPadOS (latest 2 versions) Web browsers (Chrome, Edge, Firefox)
What is the Tour de France 2026 schedule?
Saturday, July 4 Stage 1 | Barcelona – Barcelona (19.7km TTT)
Sunday, July 5 Stage 2 | Tarragona – Barcelona (182km)
Monday, July 6 Stage 3 | Granollers – Les Angles (196km)
Tuesday, July 7 Stage 4 | Carcassonne – Foix (182km)
Wednesday, July 8 Stage 5 | Lannemezan – Pau (158km)
Thursday, July 9 Stage 6 | Pau – Gavarnie-Gedre (186km)
Friday, July 10 Stage 7 | Hagetmau – Bordeaux (175km)
Saturday, July 11 Stage 8 | Perigueux – Bergerac (182km)
Sunday, July 12 Stage 9 | Malemort – Ussel (185km)
Monday, July 13 Rest
Tuesday, July 14 Stage 10 | Aurillac – Le Lioran (167km)
Wednesday, July 15 Stage 11 | Vichy – Nevers (161km)
Thursday, July 16 Stage 12 | Circuit de Nevers Magny-Cours – Chalon-sur-Saone (181km)
Friday, July 17 Stage 13 | Dole – Belfort (205km)
Saturday, July 18 Stage 14 | Mulhouse – Le Markstein (155km)
Sunday, July 19 Stage 15 | Champagnole – Plateau de Solaison (184km)
We test and review VPN services in the context of legal recreational uses. For example:1. Accessing a service from another country (subject to the terms and conditions of that service).2. Protecting your online security and strengthening your online privacy when abroad.We do not support or condone the illegal or malicious use of VPN services. Consuming pirated content that is paid-for is neither endorsed nor approved by Future Publishing.
Supergirl marks the eponymous character's return to the limelight after 42 years. Okay, the DC superhero has starred and/or appeared in numerous TV shows and small-screen movies in the decades since; however, her only previous big-screen outing came in the form of the much-maligned 1984 Supergirl film featuring Helen Slater, so another cinematic adventure is long overdue.
Unfortunately, as incredibly excited as I've been for the second DC Universe (DCU) flick's arrival, it gives me no satisfaction to say that Kara Zor-El's latest silver-screen project is DC Studios' first misfire. It's not terrible by any means, but I left my screening with a tangible pang of what could have been if the movie had actually done right by its source material.
Kara, Krypto, Krypton, and Krem
Supergirl's latest film is based on a very specific comic-book story (Image credit: DC Studios/Warner Bros. Pictures)
Following her scene-stealing cameo in 2025's David Corenswet-led Superman movie, Supergirl reunites us with Kara (Milly Alcock) and her superpowered pup Krypto as they embark on an interstellar bar crawl to celebrate Kara's 23rd birthday, which Kara simultaneously uses to try and forget the destruction of her and Supes' home world Krypton by getting blackout drunk.
However, it isn't long before last orders are called. Indeed, when the sadistic Krem of the Yellow Hills (Matthias Schoenaerts) and his criminal gang — aka The Brigands — murder the family of a young woman named Ruthye (Eve Ridley) on her home planet, the latter tracks down Kara to help Ruthye get her revenge.
Supergirl doesn't soar to the heady heights that its main character can reach with ease
Initially reluctant to help, Kara changes her mind when Krem not only steals her spaceship, but also critically injures Krypto with a poisoned dart. With only 72 hours to find Krem and retrieve the antidote that'll save her dog's life, Kara and Ruthye set off on a character-defining journey that's as much a sci-fi adventure and space western as it is a superhero movie.
Kara and Krem only occasionally clash throughout Supergirl's 108-minute runtime (Image credit: Warner Bros. Pictures/DC Studios)
Tonally, Supergirl takes as much inspiration from genre films like True Grit, Mad Max, and Guardians of the Galaxy as it does from Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow, aka the 2021 graphic novel that this movie is based on.
The occasionally egregious editing of some set-pieces doesn't do justice to Supergirl's fight choreography
Those comparisons aren't a negative but, while Supergirl's grimy, washed-out aesthetic might seem like a good fit for its modern pulp plot, I yearned for the vibrant, eye-popping color palette and visual flair of its comic-book inspiration, which last year's Superman film had in spades.
On the action front, Supergirl expands on the set-pieces spread across Woman of Tomorrow's pages, while adding a couple of new ones to the mix.
Some Supergirl flight sequences look better than others (Image credit: Warner Bros. Pictures/DC Studios)
And, honestly, I had no problem with the inclusion of these new sequences, nor the creative liberties taken with pre-existing ones. The Woman of Tomorrow comic book is a slow-burning, pensive read that's lightly seasoned with thrilling, high-stakes action, so I fully understand why its film adaptation dials up the spectacle.
That said, the occasionally egregious editing of some set-pieces doesn't do justice to Supergirl's fight choreography.
Spoilers notwithstanding, at the start of the film's climactic battle, I counted at least 20 quick-fire cuts across what must have been a 40-second period. That's far, far too many and, while it isn't the only example I could give where jump-cuts make it difficult to follow the action, I wouldn't be shocked if, once Supergirl has fully launched worldwide by June 26, fans have plenty of negative things to say about this specific sequence.
Woman of Tomorrow, problems for today
Supergirl isn't a 1:1 translation of Tom King and Bilquis Eveley's Woman of Tomorrow comic book series (Image credit: DC Studios/Warner Bros. Pictures)
That's far from my only issue with Supergirl — and a lot of my grievances stem from the crucial fact that it dismisses aspects of what makes Woman of Tomorrow such a great read.
Supergirl reinterprets its source material for the worse
Color me disappointed, then, that the DCU Chapter One flick reinterprets its source material for the worse.
For starters — and this might sound baffling to some — Supergirl tells its story from Kara's perspective. I know, how blasphemous of it to focus on its titular protagonist.
But hear me out. One of the comic book's biggest strengths is that Ruthye is our point-of-view character, so we witness Kara's heroic actions through the eyes of her young ally. To re-use True Grit to illustrate my point: in the 2010 western, we see events through teenager Mattie's eyes, not her world-weary and flawed albeit honorable chaperone Rooster Cogburn. To me, there's no reason why Supergirl couldn't have done likewise, especially when there's already a precedent for it in Woman of Tomorrow.
Kara and Ruthye's relationship isn't fully explored in Supergirl (Image credit: Warner Bros. Pictures/DC Studios)
Supergirl similarly squanders another of its best elements by regularly neglecting Kara and Ruthye's complex dynamic
Supergirl similarly squanders another of its best elements by regularly neglecting Kara and Ruthye's complex dynamic.
Again, I appreciate that this is a movie about the eponymous Kryptonian, but the original Woman of Tomorrow story works so well because it's a two-hander. Apart from giving Ridley's Ruthye a belated chance to shine as the film's third act begins, Supergirl relegates her to the sidelines; and, in what I consider to be a huge misstep, doesn't examine the full extent of the complicated yet sincere relationship that exists between her and Kara in Tom King and Bilquis Eveley's comic-book series.
Considering that Supergirl clocks in at a breezy one hour and 48 minutes, there's really no excuse why this team-up wasn't explored more acutely. To me, a few more scenes based around more intimate character moments from Woman of Tomorrow would have gone a long way to fixing this without impacting the film's flow.
Supergirl satisfyingly expands on the titular hero's backstory that's outlined in Woman of Tomorrow (Image credit: Warner Bros. Pictures/DC Studios)
To give credit where it's due, Supergirl is at times as emotionally engaging, if not more so, than its literary influence — and that's mainly down to Alcock's poignantly potent performance.
Last September, in comments that could have been viewed as being exceedingly biased, DC Studios co-chief James Gunn said Alcock's take on Kara was "absolutely stunning" — and he's absolutely right.
Alcock captures the morally complex, sassy, and traumatized metahuman with the right amount of poise, petulance, and emotional precision
Whether it's her juggling of Kara's conflicting emotions in the present, or scenes depicting Kara's tragic backstory that act as well-placed storytelling touchstones peppered throughout, Alcock captures the morally complex, sassy, and traumatized metahuman with the right amount of poise, petulance, and emotional precision. Suffice it to say, I can't wait to see how her fellow superpowered beings deal with her punk rock attitude in 2027 Superman sequel Man of Tomorrow.
Jason Momoa has the time of his life playing Lobo in this DCU project (Image credit: DC Studios/Warner Bros. Pictures)
As for the film's supporting cast, Jason Momoa is arguably the standout as the immortal, interstellar mercenary Lobo.
Ridley does well with the screen time she's afforded, while Corenswet repays Alcock for her cameo in last year's DCU big-screen curtain-raiser with a couple of memorable appearances of his own. However, it's Momoa — a self-confessed Lobo superfan — who shines brightest in a role that's an integral part of Supergirl's story, and which allows him to play to his obvious acting strengths.
Unfortunately, the same can't be said of Krem. Schoenaerts is fine as the movie's central antagonist, but I'm simply not a fan of the changes — physical or otherwise — made to turn him into a disappointing, one-note villain. A bit more substance and — you know, giving us the Krem portrayed in Woman of Tomorrow — would have gone a long way to keeping me onside.
My verdict
Taken at face value, Supergirl is a pretty good film. Its heartfelt story, good-to-great cast performances, occasionally funny moments, applause-worthy practical effects, and tentpole action sequences will appeal to anyone who simply wants to be entertained by a traditional superhero flick.
However, those hoping for a more accurate adaptation of its literary works, and/or looking for a different kind of comic book movie, will likely deem it a somewhat underwhelming watch — especially if their expectations were sky-high like mine. I really wanted to like this film more than I did; but, ultimately, it doesn't soar to the heady heights that its main character can reach with ease.
Senator Mark Warner testified NSA confirmed Mythos Preview identified vulnerabilities in nearly all classified systems within hours during a controlled exercise
US officials clarified Mythos found flaws rapidly rather than exploiting them, but the capability still raises major concern
Anthropic withheld public release, sharing only with select firms; Mozilla and others validated its potency, with thousands of critical bugs uncovered in weeks
We now have another witness claiming Mythos Preview is able to break into protected systems fast and this one is none other than a high-ranking member of the US Government.
According to the Associated Press, Senator Mark Warner of Virginia testified in front of a congressional hearing this month, saying he was informed by National Security Agency (NSA) chief Joshua Rudd that Mythos “broke into almost all of our classified systems, not in weeks, but in hours.”
It’s worth mentioning here that the break-in was controlled, since it was part of an exercise done by the Anthropic team and the intelligence agency.
How powerful is Mythos?
The Associated Press dug deeper, and was informed by an unidentified US official that Mythos merely found vulnerabilities within hours, not necessarily exploited them. Still, identifying a vulnerability that theoretically can be exploited for attacks against protected US Government systems should be cause for concern on its own.
Mythos is an advanced AI model built by Anthropic, first introduced in early April this year. However, the company decided not to share it with the general public because it was apparently too capable of discovering and leveraging software vulnerabilities.
Instead, Anthropic shared it with a handful of major corporations, to help them secure their systems before cybercriminals can use the tool. Since then, multiple companies came forward to confirm Mythos’ potency, including Mozilla, which said the tool was “every bit as capable” as the world’s best security researchers.
Mozilla said that with the help of Mythos, it was able to ship more than 400 Firefox security bugs in April alone.
A month later, Anthropic said the 50 companies using the tool discovered more than 10,000 critical and high-level security vulnerabilities in roughly two months’ time.
“Several have told us that their rate of bug-finding has increased by more than a factor of ten,” the company said. “For instance, Cloudflare has found 2,000 bugs (400 of which are high- or critical-severity) across their critical-path systems, with a false positive rate that Cloudflare’s team considers better than human testers.”
Crime Boss: Rockay City is still receiving massive free updates
The latest added a new story mode and two new heists
The developers are already teasing more
Remember Crime Boss: Rockay City? The co-op heist shooter that launched back in March 2023 and didn't get the best review scores. It's not a perfect game, but I've always defended it.
Under the Radar
Under the Radar is our way of highlighting great games that might have passed you by. Through a regular mix of news stories and features, we'll cover great experiences that we feel haven't found the audience they deserve. Read the full series here.
The shooting feels great for a mid-price title; the 1980s Miami setting is pretty cool, and, importantly, I think it's a lot more fun than its biggest competitor: Payday 3.
I like to boot it up every few months as it's always receiving new content drops, and it sounds like developer Ingame Studios has no plans to slow down three years on.
The game just received its 21st major update, bringing it into what the studio dubs "Version 2.0". It's billed as the biggest set of additions yet, and includes a whole new story campaign.
Originally, the game followed an almost roguelike format, with randomized campaigns and deaths that would reset your progress. Now, it has a more traditional, linear story experience with a selection of new cutscenes added to bridge it all together.
This mode also incorporates all of the narrative content from the Gold Cup and Cagnali's Order expansions, creating one unified Crime Boss experience.
If that massive change wasn't enough, the game also just received two new missions as part of the update. This includes the 'Hell's Kitchen' heist, which looks like a take on the iconic 'Cook Off' mission from the Payday franchise that has players trying to cook up piles of drugs while fending off waves of law enforcement.
The devs are even teasing more, urging players to "stay tuned" because the "story isn’t over yet" in a press release.
I'm excited to dive in, and I won't even need to part with any extra cash to do so, as the update is free on every platform where Crime Boss: Rockay City is available — PC, Xbox Series X and Series S, and PlayStation 5.
I’ll be spending this week recommending the best phones for all budgets and use cases, but it’s also important to acknowledge the devices you should actively avoid spending your hard-earned money on this Prime Day — even if they’re the subject of some seemingly hard-to-resist discounts.
You see, smartphones don’t live forever. All manufacturers drop software support for older models as their popularity diminishes and newer software features become more complex, leaving unsupported devices feeling outdated and more vulnerable to security threats.
That’s why, in this guide, I’ve rounded up 29 iPhones and Android phones that aren’t guaranteed to receive further updates beyond 2026. In each section, I’ve also noted the models you should consider buying this Prime Day instead.
I’ve limited this roundup to phones available in the US (namely, devices from Apple, Samsung, Google, and Motorola), but you can find specific software support information for whatever model you’re considering on its manufacturer’s website.
And for an even more detailed picture of the current software support landscape, check out our phone update support explainer.
iPhones
The once-great iPhone 13 is no longer worth buying in 2026 (Image credit: TechRadar)
Apple supplies iPhones with a minimum of five years of software updates, but it typically extends that commitment for up to two additional years. As such, the iPhones listed below may well continue to receive updates beyond 2026, but there’s also a chance that they get left behind after iOS 27 drops in September.
iPhone 13 — 0-2 years (last update in 2026, 2027, or 2028)
iPhone 13 Pro — 0-2 years (last update in 2026, 2027, or 2028)
iPhone 13 Pro Max — 0-2 years (last update in 2026, 2027, or 2028)
iPhone 13 mini — 0-2 years (last update in 2026, 2027, or 2028)
iPhone 12 — 0-2 years (last update in 2026, 2027, or 2028)
iPhone 12 Pro — 0-2 years (last update in 2026, 2027, or 2028)
iPhone 12 Pro Max — 0-2 years (last update in 2026, 2027, or 2028)
iPhone 12 mini — 0-2 years (last update in 2026, 2027, or 2028)
iPhone 11 — final update will probably be this year with iOS 27
iPhone 11 Pro — final update will probably be this year with iOS 27
iPhone 11 Pro Max — final update will probably be this year with iOS 27
iPhone SE (2020) — final update will probably be this year with iOS 27
As for which iPhones you should consider buying instead, I’d recommend going for an iPhone 15 or upwards, since these devices will be supported until at least 2028.
Android phones
The Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra is only due to receive one more Android update (Image credit: Future | Alex Walker-Todd)
Android manufacturers are more rigid in their software support commitments than Apple, meaning we know exactly when Samsung, Google, and Motorola phones will stop receiving updates.
Samsung Galaxy A54 — final Android update this year (2026), final security patch in 2028
Samsung Galaxy A34 — final Android update this year (2026), final security patch in 2028
Samsung Galaxy S23 — final Android update this year (2026), final security patch in 2028
Samsung Galaxy S23 Plus — final Android update this year (2026), final security patch in 2028
Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra — final Android update this year (2026), final security patch in 2028
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5 — final Android update this year (2026), final security patch in 2028
Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5 — final Android update this year (2026), final security patch in 2028
Samsung Galaxy M54 — final Android update this year (2026), final security patch in 2028
Google Pixel 6 — final update this year (2026)
Google Pixel 6 Pro — final update this year (2026)
Motorola Edge 50 Pro — final Android update this year (2026), final security patch in 2028
Motorola Edge 50 Fusion — final Android update this year (2026), final security patch in 2028
Motorola Edge 50 Ultra — final Android update this year (2026), final security patch in 2028
Motorola Razr 50 / Razr 2024 — final Android update this year (2026), final security patch in 2028
Motorola Razr 50 Ultra / Razr Plus 2024 — final Android update this year (2026), final security patch in 2028
Moto G86 — final Android update this year (2026), final security patch in 2029
Moto G56 — final Android update this year (2026), final security patch in 2029
So you want AirPods? You're not alone — they're the most popular headphones in the world for a reason. The good news is: the best and newest models are discounted and they're discounted well, depending on where you live.
We're covering Amazon Prime Day constantly, throughout the huge three-day shindig, but I've corralled the best savings across all sites and regions right here, on this page.
Top of the heap for me would be the excellent AirPods Max 2, which are now just $399 at Amazon (was $549) if you live Stateside.
Gotta have those ice-white buds? In the US, AirPods Pro 3 are now down to just $179 (was $249.99) in another corker of a deal.
In the UK, the AirPods Pro 3 deal isn't quite as good as 32% off, but they're still a tidy 20% off, taking their price down to just £175 (was £219.99).
Not the exact models you were after? That's fine, simply scroll for the best AirPods deals where you are, all live now.
Today's best AirPods deals in the US
These are the new new March 2026 edition, with the H2 chip and all of the upticks in performance that brings. And though many might have predicted an Apple-style $50 saving (yawn), this $150-off steal is crazy! Nobody had this on their bingo card for Prime Day. Let me be abundantly clear: the noise cancellation here is absolutely fantastic — and I know, because I reviewed them… View Deal
This might just be the best early Prime Day tech deal, especially if you want Apple's iconic buds (and you'd be in good company; they're the most popular earbuds in the world for a reason). Apple's AirPods Pro 3 for a record-low price of $169? Come on! Apple's newest premium buds feature improved Active Noise Cancellation, outstanding audio, a comfortable in-ear design, and new features such as live translation and heart-rate tracking. These do-it-all buds really are 100% flagship audio, and the noise-canceling quality is outstanding.View Deal
Not sure you need the flagship set with a heart-rate monitor? Amazon's Prime Day deals also include a tidy saving on the AirPods 4 with active noise cancellation. These AirPods 4 feature the newer and more comfortable design, handy controls, and Apple's H2 chip (the same one that features in the Pro 3 and Max 2), which supports personalised spatial audio and voice isolation. There's also that all-important ANC to block out distracting noises and outside sounds, which is great when you want to focus at work or are commuting.View Deal
You knew Apple's earbuds offering went further than AirPods! The pinnacle of the company's Beats sub-brand is its Powerbeats Pro 2. Think of them as the new, improved version of some of the best running headphones you can buy — now at a record-low price. These better their predecessor in almost every category with that modern Apple H2 chip, lighter weight, longer battery life, and new features such as heart-rate monitoring and Qi wireless charging. The battery lasts an impressive 45 hours total with both the buds and case, which beats many of the best workout earbuds by a wide margin. And the deal? It's $20 lower than our price trackers have ever seen. View Deal
Today's best AirPods deals in the UK
If you want Apple's iconic buds in the UK (and you'd be in good company; they're the most popular earbuds in the world for a reason) you're in luck. AirPods Pro 3 for their lowest-seen price? Come on! Apple's newest premium buds feature improved Active Noise Cancellation, outstanding audio, a comfortable in-ear design, and new features such as live translation and heart-rate tracking. These do-it-all buds really are 100% flagship audio, and the noise-canceling quality is outstanding.View Deal
This is a new record-low price for Apple's non-ANC buds. The AirPods 4 feature a new design for all-day comfort and pack Apple's H2 chip, which supports personalized spatial audio and voice isolation. You also get a redesigned case with 30 hours of battery life and support for USB-C for wireless charging. Again, this cheaper version does not support active noise cancellation, so it may be worth paying the extra to get that benefit with the deal below.View Deal
Willing to spend a bit more? Amazon's Prime Day deals feature the AirPods 4 with active noise cancellation for their lowest price ever. These AirPods 4 feature a new comfortable design, handy controls, and Apple's H2 chip (the same one that features in the Pro 3 and Max 2, you know), which supports personalised spatial audio and voice isolation. There's also that all-important ANC to block out distracting noises and outside sounds, which is great when you want to focus at work or are commuting.View Deal
OK before you get excited, this is the older set, albeit with a marginal update — in the form of a USB-C port that does allow USB-C Lossless audio so you can go wired for hi-res audio. The deal is live on the Midnight, Blue and Starlight colourways and honestly, they'll look exactly the same as the newer set. Only thing is, you don't get the H2 chips under the hood, and so the uptick in ANC, sonic clarity and Apple Intelligence perks won't be forthcoming. I still think the sound and ANC is well worth it at this fee, but the Max 2 are just that bit better… View Deal
I've covered the ereader space for decades and watched as the industry struggled to make usable color E Ink displays. The early displays were slow, with low contrast and faded colors, and were roundly rejected by those who happily scooped up and held onto monochrome ereaders like the iconic Kindle Paperwhite.
One ereader changed all that, and now the Amazon Kindle Colorsoft, which we called "the fastest, smoothest e-reader we've ever used," is on sale for Prime Day for $159 in the US and £154.99 in the UK for the 16GB model.
Here's what makes these Prime Day prices more remarkable: the Colorsoft is, in the US, just $35 more than the Kindle Paperwhite, and about £20 more than it is in the UK. So basically, the cost of two or three Matchas to switch up from black and white to thousands of colors? Feels like a no-brainer.
Today's best Kindle Colorsoft deals
The Kindle Colorsoft is down to its lowest price as part of Amazon Prime Day. As Amazon's first and only colored Kindle, it's a must-have for people who love reading travel guides, graphic novels, and other genres with a lot of images and photographs. It's USB-C and wireless charging compatible, lasting up to 8 weeks on a full battery.View Deal
The Kindle Colorsoft just fell to its lowest-ever price as part of this year's Amazon Prime Day sale. As Amazon's first colored Kindle, it's a must-have if you love reading travel guides, graphic novels, and other genres with a lot of images and photographs — or just want to view your entire ebook library in its full colour glory. The ereader is also USB-C and wireless charging compatible, lasts up to eight weeks on a full battery, and has enough storage for thousands of books.View Deal
What's exciting about the Colorsoft is not just that it finally brings color to a reflective screen, but that it does it so well. I remember seeing the 7-inch, waterproof ereader for the first time in 2025. Initially, it looked and felt much like the Kindle Paperwhite I was familiar with, but the new color screen was a revelation. It's sharp, bright, crisp, and the colors pop across a range of content styles. Graphic novels are especially well-suited to the screen technology. You can tap or swipe through various full-screen panels, or view the full page of panels as you might on a physical graphic novel.
Books and, especially, magazines like National Geographic look good, too.
Best of all, there are no real trade-offs here. You get 16GB, which is more than enough space for thousands of tomes. As a reflective display, battery life is still strong, at 28 hours (according to our tests), which means multiple days or even weeks of multi-hour reading sessions. And like the monochrome Kindles, it has side illuminators that bathe the screen in light.
Plus, it's just as durable and waterproof as monocrhome Kindles.
Of course, even though it's color, you can still read your black and white text book and novels on the device. I suggest you get the latter from your local library by using an app like Libby.
My point is that there's very little reason to just buy a Paperwhite when, for just a little more money, you can have the best of both worlds: all the features of a Paperwhite and that really cool full-color reading experience. If you're a fan of graphic novels, there's no way you can pass this Prime Day deal by.
Let me set the scene: I've been patiently waiting for the Prime Day sales to make some big, important purchases. Last night, my patience was rewarded: there's a deal on exactly the thing I wanted to buy. In fact, a really good deal — the cheapest price all year on this particular gadget. I check out, and I'm feeling pretty smug.
Fast-forward to today, and someone on my TechRadar Slack channel mentions a voucher. Specifically, a £15 Amazon voucher — with no strings attached! — to those who spend over £60 in the Prime Day sales. I have spent well over £60, and I have no such voucher to show for it. My smugness fades pretty quickly.
A quick investigation reveals my error — after putting the same item back in my cart as an experiment, I see there's a checkbox for the voucher. In my hurry to secure the goods, I missed it the first time around.
I'm writing this article as a PSA: if you're shopping the Prime Day sales (perhaps using our Amazon Prime Day deals live blog to find the best bargains), don't make the same mistake. Take your time and get your voucher. Here's a picture of what you're looking for:
(Image credit: Amazon)
There are a few more potential caveats to know about. Most of these are unconfirmed — pop a note in the comments if you have more information you could share.
First, the amounts may be slightly different. I was offered £15 on a £60 spend (on the total basket, rather than needing to be on one individual item), but I've seen reports of a £20 voucher on an £80 spend. (My basket was over £80, for the record.)
Second, this deal might not be available to those on a free trial. The official Prime Day deals are only available to Prime subscribers, but signing up for your free month is a popular hack for unlocking those deals without having to commit to a membership long-term. If that's a workaround you're pulling, you might not be offered a voucher. (Although it's still worth looking for that checkbox to make sure.)
There might be a time limit on the voucher. Again, it'd be easier to check this if I'd successfully obtained my own voucher, but there we go. I'm seeing reports the voucher might only be available to use until the end of July. But given that Amazon sells everything from toilet rolls to washing up liquid, I'm sure you can find something useful to redeem it on in time.
Dutton Ranch season 2 confirmed by Paramount+ ahead of season 1 episodes 8 and 9
Kelly Reilly and Cole Hauser set to return as Beth and Rip; no further announcements made
Season 1 premiere was the biggest original series debut in Paramount+ history
Dutton Ranch season 2 has officially been confirmed by Paramount+ just days ahead of its penultimate season 1 episode airing.
Season 1 amassed 12.9 million viewers globally in its first seven days following the Yellowstone spinoff's premiere, making it the biggest original series launch in Paramount+ history, according to the streamer.
“Beth and Rip are among the most iconic duos in television history, and we are thrilled to bring a whole new world to life with Dutton Ranch for our subscribers around the world,” said Jane Wiseman, Head of Originals for Paramount+.
Matt Thunell, President of Paramount Television Studios, added, "We look forward to bringing fans more stories from these unforgettable characters in season 2.”
No further details have been announced as of writing, but we can expect Kelly Reilly and Cole Hauser to return to their leading roles (the pair act as executive producers on the show).
But with season 1 showrunner Chad Feehan exiting the series weeks before the premiere, who will take over?
Opinion: Now that Dutton Ranch season 2 is confirmed, Taylor Sheridan needs to properly return
Industry rumors suggested that another writer would take over as lead showrunner, but to me, it's the perfect time for Sheridan to get back in the driver's seat.
The Yellowstone mastermind has been dedicating his time to Lioness, Landman, and, most recently,The Madison, having not directly led a Yellowstone spinoff since 1883 and 1923.
That being said, Dutton Ranch has still performed exceptionally well without him, whereas the fellow spinoff Marshals,has suffered. Surely, it would be a pretty nice thing to jump on the victory train that is Beth and Rip's new life in Texas.
We likely won't know who will take over until production starts. As of yet, no filming timeline or predicted release window has been confirmed.
It isn't often these days that, as a UK-based sports fan, I get to enjoy watching the biggest live events in the world for free. Premium services like Sky Sports and and TNT Sports have got something of a monopoly over some of my favorite leagues and tournaments with the likes of the Premier League, Champions League, Ryder Cup golf, Ashes cricket and Tour de France cycling all behind paywalls.
Thankfully, the FIFA World Cup is among the ever-diminishing list of so-called 'Crown Jewels' sporting events – with the Olympics, FA Cup final, Grand National and Wimbledon also included – that are protected from the same fate.
It means that me and around 70 million others here in the UK get to watch every minute of World Cup action for free, with the BBC and ITV sharing out all 104 games between them – and won't have to watch England's inevitable semi-final penalty shoot-out loss via highlights or at a mate's house.
And it's not just that we get a better deal than our American friends in terms of the price of World Cup coverage; I'd venture that the quality of the UK's coverage is also world leading. Read on to find out why.
How to watch World Cup 2026 for free in the UK
Soccer fans in the UK can watch the 2026 World Cup for FREE – both on traditional TV and online.
TV coverage is shared between the BBC and ITV. The vast majority of matches are shown on BBC One and ITV1, with BBC Two and ITV4 picking up games where there are more than one game being played at the same time.
That means you can get free World Cup live streams online via the BBC iPlayer and ITVX websites and mobile apps.
If you're outside the UK but want to tap into your usual coverage, check out Norton VPN and follow the instructions further down this page.
The line-up of the BBC's pundits and commentators for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. (Image credit: BBC)
Is the UK's World Cup coverage truly free?
The BBC and ITV are both free at the point of use. However – and here's the slight catch – there's a legal requirement that you have a valid TV License in order to watch live streams of the World Cup on BBC iPlayer and ITVX. The same goes for recording games or watching full replays on iPlayer. However, you don’t need a licence to catch-up on ITVX(per tvlicensing.co.uk).
And just to be clear: even though the World Cup is hosted in the United States, all the usual TV Licence rules apply.
The TV Licence currently costs £180 per year for most people with discounts available for the sight impaired, people living in a care home or sheltered accommodation, and those watching on black and white TVs. It's free for anybody aged 74 and over.
5 reasons to watch the UK's World Cup coverage
While it's tempting to use just three words to explain what makes the UK's feed superior to the US's ("no Alexi Lalas"), there's a lengthy list of less facetious reasons why I'd always recommend our domestic coverage of tournaments like the World Cup:
There's no ad breaks during games It has to be top of my list of irritants whenever I've been to the US and watched sports – there are so many ad breaks (surely what the timeout was really invented for) and, more often than not, they tend to be both obnoxious and repetitive. That has inevitably seeped into two mandatory 'hydration breaks' during every WC game, with Fox rumored to be making hundreds of thousands of dollars every time the teams grab an energy boost and ad-hoc team talk. You won't get that with the BBC or ITV, who use the opportunity to bring greater analysis to what they've just seen.
Glorious 4K UHD in iPlayer If you want to watch the World Cup in Ultra HD 4K online in the US, you'll need to stump up for a paid-for streaming subscription (or at least go through the faff of taking out a free trial to a service like Fubo or Fox One). All 54 games being shown on the BBC iPlayer, on the other hand, get the benefit of the national broadcaster's full 4K presentation. I will concede that the games being shown on ITVX are only in regular 1080p Full HD, however.
We have (mostly) credible pundits In the UK, the World Cup starting pistol is really fired every four years when the BBC and ITV announce their presenters and punditry line-up. This year was no different, with the big guns being drawn by both stations. The BBC has England legends Alan Shearer (together with regular chum Micah Richards), Wayne Rooney and Ellen White in the studio, with Olivier Giroud, Gaël Clichy and César Azpilicueta among those bringing a foreign take.
The line-up of ITV's pundits and commentators for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. (Image credit: ITV)
While ITV combines home-country heroes Gary Neville, Ian Wright and Karen Carney, with the more exotic Patrick Vieira, Juan Mata and Ange Postecoglou. And a special mention for ITV's Ally McCoist, who is surely the most entertaining color commentator in the game. Although I'm giving much less respect to ITV's bizarre decision to get Man V. Food's Adam Richman involved in presenting duties (per ITV).
You can't beat the build-up Regardless of the teams, the channel and the time of day, British broadcasters hold back at least 30 minutes of build-up to every single game. Yes, they might provide a bit more time for England games and when the big boys play, but means that you're also getting respectfully in-depth pre-match analysis of Ecuador vs Curaçao and DR Congo vs Uzbekistan, too.
Roy Keane Love him or loathe him (I have to admit that I generally lean towards the latter camp), nobody can deny that Keano is box office viewing... just without the ticket fee. While we haven't yet witnessed a classic Roy Rant during this tournament, you can bet your bottom Euro that one is just around the corner if the likes of perceived prima donnas like Cristiano Ronaldo, Jude Bellingham or Neymar fail to turn in a committed two-footed performance. He's part of the ITV studio team.
"He's a billionaire and he's still playing football" 😅@GNev2 and Roy Keane go back-and-forth on what to expect from Cristiano Ronaldo at this World Cup... pic.twitter.com/NLvFYNP6CGJune 23, 2026
Which devices can I use to watch BBC iPlayer and ITVX?
Amazon Fire TV / Fire TV Stick
Android phones and tablets
Apple TV (HD and 4K)
Chromecast
Computers (web browsers)
Freeview Play TVs
Freely-compatible TVs
iPhone and iPad
LG Smart TVs (webOS)
Panasonic Smart TVs
PlayStation 4 and 5
Roku devices
Samsung Smart TVs (Tizen)
Sony Smart TVs
Xbox One and Xbox Series X|S
Where else can I watch free World Cup live streams?
UK-based football fans aren't the only ones who get to watch free, uninterrupted coverage. There are several other countries where they have the same smug feeling I get when searching my EPG for the latest game:
Which country gets the most free World Cup 2026 streams? https://t.co/r1goz97HvqJune 8, 2026
How to watch free World Cup matches from anywhere
Try to watch BBC iPlayer and ITVX when abroad and you'll soon discover that it's not possible. Even if you're a TV Licence holder, these UK streaming services are blocked from being watched when outside the country.
Thankfully, there's a clever dribble around this. You can use a VPN (Virtual Private Network) to access your usual streaming services on laptop, smartphone, tablet, etc (terms allowing).
We recommend Norton VPN for streaming. Here's why:
Watch your free World Cup stream without limits. Norton VPN delivers fast, secure connections with global servers, so you can stream from anywhere with ease.
💰 60-day money-back guarantee 🔓 Unlocks free World Cup games
Don’t miss a second. Stream the World Cup from anywhere with total confidence.View Deal
It's really easy to use a VPN to watch the World Cup for free:
1. Install the VPN of your choice. As we've said, Norton VPN is a great choice.
2. Choose the location you wish to connect to in the VPN app. For instance, if you're visiting the US and want to watch your free BBC iPlayer or ITVX stream, you'd select 'United Kingdom' from the server list.
3. Sit back and enjoy the action. Head to BBC iPlayer or ITVX, sign in, and watch the World Cup for free.
But there is a sneaky trick to watch all World Cup games in the US for $1
Although Fox is the principal 2026 World Cup broadcaster in the US, you may not be aware that all 104 games are also going out via Telemundo and Universo on TV and Peacock online... in Spanish!
That, of course, may be a barrier to enjoyment for many fans. But if you're a fluent Spanish speaker or tend to listen with the volume down anyway (covertly watching at the office, perhaps?) then it might not matter to you.
And although Peacock normally costs from $11 a month for the level of subscription you need to watch 2026 World Cup games, you can get 30 days of access – so more than enough to watch the remainder of the tournament – for a mere dollar thanks to Walmart+.
The retailer's membership service includes Peacock streaming among its myriad benefits. And, if you're new to the service, you can sign up for a 30-day trial for only $1.
Alternatively, you can also get access to the coverage on Fox and FS1 by signing up to a free trial of an OTT cable alternative. Fubo, YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, DirecTV and the network's own Fox One all have one.
We test and review VPN services in the context of legal recreational uses. For example:1. Accessing a service from another country (subject to the terms and conditions of that service).2. Protecting your online security and strengthening your online privacy when abroad.We do not support or condone the illegal or malicious use of VPN services. Consuming pirated content that is paid-for is neither endorsed nor approved by Future Publishing.
Everyone's getting back into vinyl these days, whether it's for that hit of nostalgia or because you don't want Spotify feeding you AI slop (vinyl, at the time of writing, does not facilitate AI slop… let us all hope it stays that way). And a new discount from Fluance makes picking up its entry-level turntable even easier.
This is the Fluance RT81, which we called "Easily the best starter turntable you can buy" when we tested it back in 2024. And it's a relatively affordable model even without a discount, designed to offer you the record-playing basics without expensive audiophile features.
A warning: turn back now if you're not reading this between 8:25am and 8:25pm ET on Wednesday, June 4 (that's 5:25am - 5:25pm PT, though it's not clear if Fluance will budge the window for Westerners). This discount is available as a Lightning Deal on Amazon, as part of Prime Day deals, so it's only live for a slender 12-hour window.
Fluance RT81:was $299.99now $239.99 at Amazon Turntable discounts aren't hugely common, so any kind of reduction is something that'll turn heads. It's great that the sale is on an entry-level model, lowering the price of entry for prospective vinyl fans a little. And the discount? It's the lowest our trackers have seen… View Deal
Hold the needle a sec: the Fluance RT81 does miss one feature common in entry-level turntables, which you should probably know about before you buy.
The turntable doesn't feature Bluetooth connectivity (which plenty of new spinners do in 2026), so you can't pair it with your JBL speaker to enjoy your tunes, say. Instead, you'll need to connect wired speakers via RCA (those white and red dual cables).
While audiophiles prefer to avoid Bluetooth for record listening, due to the compression inherent in Bluetooth losing some of the detail within the vinyl, it's much more common in entry-level record players. The feature makes it much easier to integrate a player into your home hi-fi set-up if you only own wireless tech.
So it's only worth buying the Fluance RT81 deal if you can fit a wired turntable into your home, or you already have a set of stereo speakers that you want to put to good use.
If that's no issue, you'll find the RT81 a nice, good-looking and convenient starter turntable. It's easy to set-up and use, and it sounds pretty great.
The deal will save you $60 which, admittedly, is about the cost of one record these days, but you've probably inherited a collection of those. Instead, I'd put the money towards one of the best stereo speakers so you can use the Fluance properly.
The refreshed lineup of Dell laptops has turned out to be even better than many of us hoped for, including the return of the XPS line — and right now, Dell's 'Days of Deals' sale is offering even better pricing than the Amazon Prime Day laptop deals I've been seeing.
Right off the top, you have the new Dell 16 Laptop for $499.99 (originally $1029.99), which is a better price for a Windows 11 Home laptop than just about any other model on Amazon that doesn't come with junk hardware inside. Instead, you get an eight-core AMD Ryzen 7 250 processor, 16GB RAM, and a 512GB SSD, far better than most sub-$500 laptops on sale for Prime Day.
There's more to explore at Dell.com, and I encourage you to check out their sale if you're in the market for new computer hardware, but I've pulled together my favorite laptop picks and configurations from the sale to help make it easier to find what you're looking for.
Today's best laptop deals at Dell.com
AMD Ryzen 7 250 | 16GB DDR5 RAM | 512GB SSD
I always think of the Dell 16 Laptop as the everyday workhorse for remote and hybrid workers. Likewise, If you or your child is off to college this September, then get ahead of the curve with this outstanding deal.View Deal
AMD Ryzen AI 5 340 | 16GB DDR5 RAM | 512GB SSD
The Dell 14 Plus is one of our favorite mid-range Windows laptops thanks to its excellent design and competitive specs. If I were looking for a decent everyday laptop for everything from work to demanding productivity applications, then I'd be very tempted by this deal.View Deal
Intel Core 5 320 | 8GB DDR5 RAM | 512GB SSD
Dell's answer to the Neo comes with a touchscreen display and a special price for students (matching Apple's $599). This is the cheapest XPS 13 yet and one with a smaller-than-A4 footprint.View Deal
Intel Core Ultra 7 258V | 32GB DDR5 RAM | 1TB SSD
Dell ships 32GB of RAM with this laptop and this is the optimal amount of memory for serious productivity/business workloads. 'Between great general computing performance for any college student or executive and long-lasting battery life, it's a solid mid-tier laptop and it's even cheaper than last year!View Deal
Dell's XPS 13 laptops are always worth keeping an eye out for during Prime Day, as we often see big price cuts for what are some of the best laptops you can currently buy. Right now, one of the biggest discounts you'll find is for this Snapdragon-equipped model, which also features an impressive 32GB of RAM. With a Snapdragon chipset, you'll get great performance and almost unbeatable battery life out of this model.View Deal
Save $350 on the Alienware Aurora 15 gaming laptop. This system strikes a sensible balance between gaming proficiency and affordability. For less than $1,000, it's a capable workhorse for both casual and professional tasks.View Deal
This Alienware Aurora 16 isn't the cheapest laptop on the market, but you're getting an Intel Core Ultra-7 240H chipset, RTX 5060 graphics card, 32GB of DDR5 RAM, and a 1TB SSD - superb specs for 1080p gaming. If you need a decent machine with a premium build, then this is a fantastic choice in the Dell Black Friday in July sale.View Deal
The Grand Theft Auto 6 Ultimate Edition comes with a ton of exclusive content
Some fans are understandably disappointed
However, it looks like an Ultimate Edition upgrade will be available
Some Grand Theft Auto 6 fans are frustrated by the amount of exclusive content locked behind the game's Ultimate Edition, but it looks like a separate upgrade will be available at some point.
Rockstar Games has officially announced the price for GTA 6, when pre-orders go live, and what editions will be available: a $79.99 Standard Edition and a $99.99 Ultimate Edition.
Unlike the Standard Edition, which only comes with the base game, the more expensive Ultimate Edition features a ton of extra goodies, including premium and exclusive content such as missions, Vice City shops, locations, and outfits.
While the announcement has many fans excited, some are disappointed that much of GTA 6 will be locked behind a higher cost version of the game.
"Locking this much s*** behind the Ultimate Edition is scummy," one fan said. Another wrote, "Having stores locked behind the Ultimate Edition in a single player game is definitely a choice."
A user on Reddit shared similar frustrations, saying, "Rockstar I love you and all but locking content behind editions of the game like this is pretty egregious. This shouldn't be things you hide behind an ultimate edition of the game for players who just want to buy the basic game."
However, taking a look at the PS Store now that pre-orders have gone live in New Zealand, it seems that an Ultimate Edition Upgrade will be available.
There's no price right now, but if we had to guess, it could cost about the difference between the Standard and Ultimate Edition, so roughly $20.
A release date for the add-on hasn't been confirmed, but it will likely be available at launch, giving players who purchase the Standard Edition the option to upgrade and unlock all Ultimate Edition content.
Elsewhere, Sony has teamed up with Rockstar and announced that players who pre-order any edition on PlayStation Store will also instantly receive a redeemable free month of GTA+, a premium subscription for Grand Theft Auto Online.
I’m under no illusions that John Ternus’ Apple will be the exactly same as it has been under Tim Cook. Initially though, there will be few, if any, changes. Ternus is not an outsider with wild anti-Apple ideas intended to wake a sleeping giant. He's been here for decades, through all the major releases that made Apple, well, Apple. Claims that he's arriving in September to revive Apple's design excellence are, if not off base, then just wrong-headed.
First of all, the argument presupposes that there is something fundamentally lacking in Apple's Industrial design: Jony Ive was obviously lighting in a bottle, and current design lead Molly Anderson is a pale, albeit also British, imitation. (Granted, Anderson has not been in the position that long, taking over from Evans Hankey, who left in 2023.)
But accepting that presumption is to ignore all the beautifully designed products that have arrived under Cook's leadership, with and without Ive, and also often under the watchful eyes of Ternus.
It was the ultimate expression (at least in PC terms) of Ive's "form meets function" obsession. The internal structure was sort of a triangle of boards that seemed perfectly wrong for a squat, circular enclosure. Ive's fingerprints were all over the impractical system, one that Craig Federighi later admitted to me (during a mea culpa meeting on the Pro) had boxed Apple into a thermal corner. It was hard to upgrade and was roundly rejected by pro system users.
Ive was also responsible for the Apple Pencil. With it, his penchant for skeuomorphism extended from app design into the physical world. The Apple Pencil fully resembled a white plastic version of a real, pencil, and to accommodate that, it had, under a custom cover, a hidden Lightning charging plug. You even needed a special adaptor to charge it. Later, wirelessly charging Apple Pencils, which I think Ive also designed, fixed this mess.
Naturally, Ive's hits far outweighed his misses, and many big ones came during the Cook-Ive collaboration period, including the iPad Air, the Apple Watch, and AirPods (which started awkwardly but gradually improved).
The more divisive Apple Vision Pro was likely designed under Hankey and Anderson's watchful eye. I do think it's a pleasant intersection between the needs of extremely high-end innovation and aesthetic appeal. Goggles will be goggles, after all.
Even iPhone design has remained, if not excellent, interesting.
The iPhone is still beautiful...discuss
When Apple introduced the first iPhone in 2007, there really was no other handset quite like it. Apple set the bar and, over the years, every other manufacturer followed. It became harder and harder for Apple to differentiate its metal and glass slab from its competitors. The ever-larger camera arrays have provided a sort of design challenge and an opportunity at the same time. Hankey and Anderson, at least, came up with a giant island that's quite recognizable from a distance. And let's not discount color. The orange was a stroke of genius and the new MacBook Neo's playful Blush and Citrus colors are lively, proving Anderson knows how to marry form with expression.
Ternus' role as hardware lead means he's been seeing these designs for years. My sense in sitting down with him after the launch of the iPhone Air is that he is intimately involved with the process of shoving all that technology into ever-thinner, but shockingly strong frames. He gets that you need to marry engineering skills with industrial design to get a durable and usable product that's still attractive.
When I think about what Ternus will do when he finally takes over in September, I am reminded of relay race runners. Cook continues to pace around the track while slowly holding out the baton behind him. Ternus is nearby, running just behind Cook with one hand outstretched. Neither man will stop. The handoff will happen in a few months, with everything still in motion.
The process of finishing the rumored iPhone Ultra (the folding phone) continues as we speak, and Ternus is not going to suddenly pull a Steve Jobs and throw the design into a fish tank, to see if bubbles rise, thus proving they could make it smaller. He won't demand that all plastic be replaced with glass, or even that one more color be added to the mix.
When, as the recent Bloomberg report claims, Ternus said of Apple's design history and appeal to customers, "We’re going to make sure that stays the case,” he's not talking about making huge changes to achieve that goal.
Ternus will stay the course and support Anderson. He may hire more design support and, down the line, Ternus will look for his signature initiative or product; he will want to have his own iPhone or iPod. But that's a natural inclination for any incoming CEO. Job one, though, is staying the course, shepherding the in-the-pipeline products to market and ensuring that Apple remains Apple.
My love of all things Zelda is no secret to my colleagues, friends, and family. In fact, when The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time (OoT) remake was first announced, our Global Editor-in-Chief, Marc McLaren, immediately messaged me to ask if I intended to take time off to play it (I do).
When the 40th anniversary of the franchise rolled around earlier this year, I was a little blue to see little-to-no news of a new game or remake, but my long-read ode to the lasting impact of Link's adventures through Hyrule at least gave me a distraction. Now, however, with months to go until I finally make my grand return to the Kokiri forest, my hype has reached new heights.
To pass the time, I plan to spend my money on, you guessed it, even more Zelda merchandise and Switch 2 accessories to accommodate my upcoming increase in playtime. In the current Amazon Prime Day deals, there's a wide selection of cases, storage, merchandise, and more to shop; I've included some of the best below, as well as the essential gear my gaming station will be decked with come OoT's release later this year. Not everything I've linked below is on sale, so look for the percentage-off badge if you're only looking for good deals.
Switch 2 Essentials
Nintendo
Switch 2 Console
PowerA
Advantage Wireless Controller for Nintendo Switch 2
SanDisk
MicroSD Express Card
Nintendo
SanDisk MicroSD Express Card for Nintendo Switch 2
If you're not caught up on the latest and greatest Switch generation Zelda games, you've got plenty of time ahead of the Ocarina of Time's remake releasing to pour some hours into adventure.
Nintendo
The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom
Nintendo
The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild
Nintendo
The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword
Nintendo
The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom
Nintendo
Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment
Nintendo
Hyrule Warriors: Age of Calamity
Nintendo
The Legend of Zelda Link's Awakening
Essential Zelda merch
From Lego sets to card games and novelty toys, there's a lot of great Zelda merch out there. I own a lot (really, an embarassing amount) of the below merchandise already; join me in my submission to capitalism's whim.
LEGO
The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time – the Final Battle
LEGO
Great Deku Tree 2-In-1
LEGO
Super Mario Game Boy
Paladone
Bokoblin Chest Light
USAopoly
The Legend of Zelda Chess
TAMASHII NATIONS
The Legend of Zelda Réplique Proplica Master Sword 105 Cm Black
Amazon Prime Day is often the best time of year to find a discounted Kindle, but if you've opened the listing page only to feel overwhelmed by the various models to choose from, then I have a quick quiz that might help you out.
I've owned the standard version of Kindle for years, and it's not faltered once for what I need it for. Reliable and sturdy, it's one of the best tech gifts I've ever been given. It's also the cheapest model in the range, so you won't feel like you're wasting money if you still enjoy the charms of physical books. Right now, you can find the standard Kindle on sale at Amazon for $84.99 (was $109.99) in the US and for £75.99 (was £94.99) in the UK.
But if you've got a bigger budget, it's worthwhile looking at Amazon's most popular model, the Kindle Paperwhite, which is ideal for your next beach holiday with its waterproof design. Want the ability to journal? You're better off with the Kindle Scribe. Love reading graphic novels? You'll need the Kindle Colorsoft.
If you don't have time to read our guide to Amazon's excellent e-reader range to see how each model's specs compare, just answer four simple questions in the quiz below, and it'll recommend a Kindle based on the deals available at the time of writing.
Today's best Kindle deals in the US
The latest version of the standard Kindle is on sale as part of the annual Prime Day sale. It's a basic ereader, but it still boasts a four-week battery life and space for thousands of books. Given it's $40 cheaper than the Paperwhite, this is clearly a better pick for the infrequent reader who's after a more budget-friendly option. At $85, this Prime Day deal matches the record-low price for the ereader, but is far from the bigger discounts I've seen in previous years.
Prime Day discounts on the 2024 Kindle don't come as generously as they do during Black Friday, but you won't come across a better deal at any other time of year. For Amazon's most recent standard version Kindle, $85 isn't the worst price for an e-reader that covers the basics, but it has been cheaper in the past.
Amazon Prime Day features an OK, if a little disappointing, deal on the latest Kindle Paperwhite. We found in our Kindle Paperwhite review that it's packed with features to suit all avid readers, including a 12-week battery life, glare-free 7-inch screen, adjustable warm light, and storage space for thousands of books. This is a good buy and one of the best ereaders out there; it's just a shame that the days of even bigger discounts are well in the past.
The Kindle Colorsoft is down to its lowest price as part of Amazon Prime Day. As Amazon's first colored Kindle, it's a must-have for people who love reading travel guides, graphic novels, and other genres with a lot of images and photographs. It's USB-C and wireless charging compatible, lasting up to 8 weeks on a full battery.
This updated version of the Kindle Scribe hasn't been discounted since launch, so this Prime Day is a great time to bag a deal. The Scribe combines some of the best features of the Kindle Paperwhite, such as the glare-free and auto-adjusting display, along with the option to take notes, comment on documents, and doodle using the included stylus pen. Our Kindle Scribe review was down on some missing features that have been added in recent updates, so now this is a better value for a multi-functional device.
The cheapest Kindle deal on Amazon right now is this excellent discount on the latest Amazon Kindle Kids version. Simply put, this model is functionally the same as the standard Kindle but comes with a Kid-friendly cover, a six-month trial for Amazon Kids Plus, and an extended two-year warranty. Regardless of whether you're a small or big kid, this is a great deal on the baseline Kindle.
Similar to the above deal on the standard Kindle, the cheapest Kindle Paperwhite deal available at Amazon today is on the Kids Edition variant. Again, the device is functionally the same as the standard Kindle Paperwhite, but you get a themed cover, a six-month trial of Amazon Kids+, and an extended warranty. The main selling point for the Paperwhite over the standard Kindle is that it's waterproof and features a larger seven-inch display.
The Kindle Colorsoft Kids has reached $189 on two occasions before, but today's deal is a brand-new record-low price on the latest model. While the Colorsoft is pricier than the others, as the name suggests, it has a color display that's fantastic for graphic novels and kids' books. Otherwise, it's very similar to the Paperwhite in that it's waterproof, comes with 12 months of Amazon Kids+, a themed cover, and a two-year guarantee.
The latest version of the standard Kindle is on sale as part of the annual Prime Day sale. It's a basic ereader, but it still boasts a four-week battery life and space for thousands of books. Given it's £55 cheaper than the Paperwhite, this is clearly a better pick for the infrequent reader who's after a more budget-friendly option. At £80, though, this Prime Day deal is a little underwhelming, given it's been as low as £69.99 before.
Likewise with Amazon UK, the 2024 Kindle generally gets a better deal at Black Friday, but Prime Day is a very close second. Given it's £55 cheaper than the Paperwhite, this is clearly a better pick for the infrequent reader who's after a more budget-friendly option.
Amazon has brought back its decent — but not spectacular — Black Friday deal on the latest Kindle Paperwhite for Amazon Prime Day. We found in our Kindle Paperwhite review that it's packed with features to suit all avid readers, including a 12-week battery life, glare-free 7-inch screen, adjustable warm light, and storage space for thousands of books. This is a good buy and one of the best ereaders out there; it's just a shame that the days of even bigger discounts are well in the past.
The Kindle Colorsoft just fell to its lowest-ever price as part of this year's Amazon Prime Day sale. As Amazon's first colored Kindle, it's a must-have if you love reading travel guides, graphic novels, and other genres with a lot of images and photographs — or just want to view your entire ebook library in its full colour glory. The ereader is also USB-C and wireless charging compatible, lasts up to eight weeks on a full battery, and has enough storage for thousands of books.
A notetaker's best friend, the Kindle Scribe is great for students, avid readers and productivity users alike, offering a satisfying and slick screen on which to doodle and annotate. We scored it 4.5 stars in our review.
While we scored it a respectable 4 stars in our review, a major sticking point for the Scribe Colorsoft is its value proposition. There's nowhere near enough going for it to justify this e-reader costing more than a MacBook Neo.
Star Wars: Galactic Racer has a synergy system that impacts the players' vehicles
Fuse Games says planets will have status effects, like driving in lava or burning in Jakku's sun
Players can also counteract these effects, like driving through water, if their vehicles overheat
Fuse Games has revealed that Star Wars: Galactic Racer features a synergy system with status effects that impact the players' vehicles.
In an interview with TechRadar Gaming at Summer Game Fest 2026, where studio co-founder and CEO Matt Webster and Creative Director Kieran Crimmins discussed the game's "runs-based" campaign structure and "consequential decision-making," the pair also detailed the game's reactive gameplay system.
In the game, players will visit a range of planets to take part in races, each with their own environmental differences. There are the hot, dry sand planets like Tatooine and Jakku, the lush jungle planet Lantaana, the snow planet, Ando Prime, and more.
This means players will need to adapt to the occasion, swapping out vehicle parts for ones better suited for the specific track. There's also an upgrade tree, which Crimmins said will let players improve their cornering, speed, or resilience, and upgrading vehicles over time will be "a very satisfying experience."
However, the game's synergy system will offer a bigger challenge. Planets will also have status effects, meaning hot lava will overheat your vehicle, but it can also be counteracted by physically driving through water.
"We wanted synergies, so that is status effects that each planet has a different status effect that can be inflicted on you," Crimmins said. "For instance, Ando Prime, you can get frozen, Lantaana, you can overheat in the lava, but you can also get cooled in the water. And then on different versions of Jakku, you can get burnt as well by the sun."
The developers said they couldn't speak on Crait just yet, which is a planet covered in a layer of white salt over a red crystalline mineral, suggesting that, just like in the movie The Last Jedi, speeders and other vehicles will impact the ground players navigate.
Crimmins continued, explaining how negative status effects can be subverted, for instance, to increase the speed of the new system called a Ramjet, which offers a massive boost in speed.
Webster added that using the Ramjet can "come at a real cost and heats up," but if players drive over the rivers of water in Lantaana, it heats up more slowly.
"You end up thinking of your build in a much more tactical way, where you're like, how can this thing prop this thing and create this thing to make an entirely new race," Crimmins said.
The White House is worried about AI's cybersecurity implications
Meta urged to submit frontier AI models for review before release
OpenAI and other major developers have already signed up to do this
The White House is reportedly urging Meta to voluntarily submit its most advanced AI models to the government for security reviews before they get released publicly, per New York Timesreporting.
Doing so would allow US policymakers to assess model capabilities, security risks and vulnerabilities, with the administration likely focusing on military implications like cyber warfare and attacks on critical national infrastructure.
According to the report, Meta is one of the few major AI developers that has not yet agreed to participate in the voluntary review program.
Meta pressed to submit AI models to US government for review
Companies like OpenAI, Anthropic, Google, Microsoft and xAI have already entered similar arrangements with the US government, and Meta could be next to sign up.
"We share the administration's goal of advancing U.S. leadership on robust and secure frontier AI," a company spokesperson said (via Reuters).
"While we are working through the details, we hope to sign the agreement soon."
The news follows the signing of an executive order to establish a framework for the government evaluation of advanced AI models before public deployment.
"Advanced AI capabilities make our Nation stronger, but also introduce new national security considerations that require coordinated action," the order reads.
The Five Eyes intelligence alliance (US, UK, Canada, Australia and New Zealand) also recently declared that AI systems are now more capable than ever at launching highly sophisticated cyber attacks. "Frontier Al models are anticipated to exceed current industry expectations," the alliance wrote.
If Meta signs up to participate, it means that virtually all major US frontier AI developers will be voluntarily submitting models for review prior to public release.
I've been going around in circles writing this Oura Ring 5 review. On the one hand, I find the health insights equally fascinating and motivating just like the best smart rings, and its discreet design is without a doubt comfortable to wear all day long.
But it's worth noting that Oura has been facing increasing backlash after deepening its partnership with the Department of Defense in the US last year, which is something ethically-conscious buyers may want to look into before purchasing.
That said, its ability to track more than 50 health and wellness metrics, such as sleep quality and stress levels, is undeniably enticing for anyone wanting to be more aware of their body — and the launch of this newest model brought a whole host of new insights.
What I will say is that the Oura app does try to include a lot of context about how these measurements can be interpreted and how they contribute to‚ for example, determining how prepared your body is for the day ahead based on a range of metrics, which Oura calls your 'Resilience Score'. But, again, this only scratches the surface of understanding how your body actually functions.
The best example of these assessments triggering misguided concern was when I got warnings from a feature called 'Symptom Radar', which tracks your respiratory rate and body temperature to flag signs of strain. What it didn't take into account was that a woman's body temperature naturally rises after ovulation, making its assessment unnecessarily worrying for anyone who didn't know that.
I can't deny that its claim to be the world's smallest smart ring at launch really does hold up — its lightness makes it disappear on your finger, making it ideal for everyday wear. With six stylish finishes and an even more scratch-resistant titanium surface, it's no wonder it's made headlines in the wearable tech space, with plenty of influencer reviewers fawning over the all-new Oura Ring 5.
By now you've definitely noticed my to-ing and fro-ing as I work through every side of the Oura Ring 5 to reach an honest and fair review. I won't say it's the most perfect smart ring on the market — that would be ignoring too much — but I will say it comes close. I can't argue with its premium build and the level of tech packed into those tiny sensors, which manage to achieve high levels of accuracy. That's impressive in itself, and
Oura has been facing increasing backlash after deepening its partnership with the Department of Defense in the US last year, although it doesn't use data from any of its users other than specific military personnel as part of this arrangement. It's also worth keeping in mind that there have been studies raising concerns about 'health data anxiety', and Oura's attempt to bring new biomarkers into play have given us a whole new category to worry about. But at the end of the day, I'm a sucker for brilliant tech — which the Oura Ring 5 definitely is.
Oura Ring 5: Price and availability
(Image credit: Future)
$399 / £399 / AU$649 (each) for two base finishes
$499 / £499 / AU$799 (each) for four premium styles
$5.99 monthly subscription (priced in USD across all regions)
$99 / £99 / AU$159 for the Oura Ring 5 travel case
The Oura Ring 5 costs an extra $50 / £50 / AU$80 — or $100 / £100 for a premium finish — compared with the Oura Ring 4, which launched in 2024. (Australian pricing doesn't appear to carry the same premium finish gap.)
Beyond the high-gloss gold and silver finishes, you're paying an extra $100 / £100 / AU$150 for any of the four premium styles: a softer gold, brushed silver, matte black, and — the color I tried — deep copper rose.
Add the $5.99 monthly subscription, and you're looking at up to $670 / £670 / AU$1,029.88 to own an Oura Ring 5 for a year, if you go for the most expensive finish plus the travel case.
That's no small sum when most smart rings on the market cost less and many don't require a recurring subscription. There are also plenty of wearable alternatives that track the same health vitals, which makes this very much a luxury purchase.
Value score: 2/5
Oura Ring 5: Design
(Image credit: Future)
The closest a smart ring has come to looking like luxury jewellery
Extremely low-profile and light, making it comfortable to wear all day
An easy-to-use companion app with a clean UI
By far the best justification for the Oura Ring 5's high price tag is that it could easily pass for a piece of jewellery. That's largely down to a 40% decrease in size from the previous model, the result of Oura redesigning the entire core.
That freed up space to drop multiple sensors, but it hasn't made the Ring 5 any less accurate — Oura has increased the efficiency of the remaining sensors to offset the loss. The titanium surface is also more scratch-resistant; I can't compare it directly to a previous model, but it hasn't picked up a nick yet.
What I can say is that the Oura Ring 5 is significantly smaller than the Ring 4. Holding it up against a previous-generation ring (admittedly the bulkier ceramic finish), I was shocked at how noticeable the size difference is. It's lighter and far more comfortable to wear, since it doesn't protrude — and therefore doesn't rub against — my finger as much.
That same design ethos carries through to the Oura app, which has a minimalist interface that isn't cluttered with numbers and graphs. Instead, data is presented as scores with percentages and ratings for each health vital. It's easy to use, though it's worth noting that the app needs a certain amount of data to establish your health baseline, so you won't have access to every feature right away.
Design score: 5/5
Oura Ring 5: Features
(Image credit: Future)
Tracks vitals including body temperature, heart rate, and respiratory rate
AI wellness assessments for sleep, stress, resilience, and more
Activity tracking lags behind more dedicated fitness wearables
After two weeks of wearing the Oura Ring 5, I've unlocked most features — sleep, resilience, and activity scores — which now populate what was once a fairly bare home screen.
The Oura app works best with more data, so it's constantly prompting you to add new "tags" to your day's timeline. Some are automatic, like detecting exercise, while others — what you ate, or what kind of activity you did — require manual logging.
The app's other three main sections cover your vitals, a health assessment area, and an LLM chatbot you can talk to about your data. That last part matters, because as I mentioned above, there's plenty of room for misleading interpretations if you don't understand the many factors behind your body's vitals.
I got a lot out of learning more about my sleep quality and general heart health (the app has a neat feature that lets you feel your heartbeat throughout the day via your phone's haptic feedback), but what I'm most interested in unlocking next are the new women's health features, such as Hormonal Birth Control, which builds on the existing Cycle Insights dashboard with what Oura calls a "first-of-its-kind" view into how biometrics shift across hormonal and hormone-free days.
While I find the wellness insights genuinely useful, the ring is nowhere near as practical as a dedicated fitness tracker. Without GPS — it relies on a paired device for location — and limited to activities compatible with wearing jewellery on your hand (so no weightlifting without a third-party silicone band over the top), it falls short, even with the addition of real-time tracking — which, again, you can only view through a paired device).
Features score: 4/5
Oura Ring 5: Performance
(Image credit: Future)
Battery life has increased to seven days
Automatic activity tracking has been accurate
Sleep and heart rate tracking data is in line with our benchmark device
One of the biggest improvements that the Oura Ring 5 brings over the Ring 4 is that has managed to squeeze out a whole extra day of battery life, despite the ring itself being redesigned to be 40% smaller.
During my testing, I found it lasted a whole seven days on one full charge. But I was more impressed with was how quickly you can charge the smart ring. From a fully drained battery, it took less than an hour until it was all way back up to 100%, which means it's very easy to top it up throughout the week whenever you're, say, washing dishes or having a shower.
For the most part, I kept the Oura Ring 5 on throughout the day, allowing it to track my vitals as I moved from home to work to seeing friends, exercising and cooking, which it does very well. Most of the automated tracking suggestions were accurate, allowing me to quickly confirm all of the day's activities when I next checked into the app.
This same accuracy extends to the sleep data, which is the absolute highlight of the Oura Ring 5's feature set. I found the insights both enlightening and motivating, especially after getting my first sleep score as (like any gamification effect) I began trying to reach a new higher level. My testing also confirmed this when my readouts for my average heart rate managed to be within 3 BPM of the Polar H10 chest strap, which is the gold standard for consumer heart rate and workout accuracy as it uses actual ECG (electrocardiogram) technology.
Average heart rate
Oura Ring 5
115
Polar H10
112
037.575112.5150
Average heart rate Data
Product
Value
Oura Ring 5
115
Polar H10
112
Performance score: 5/5
Oura Ring 5: Scorecard
Category
Comment
Score
Value
An extremely luxury smart ring compared to others on the market.
2/5
Design
The most discreet and comfortable smart ring to wear all day.
5/5
Features
Stacked on the wellness front, but not when it comes to fitness.
4/5
Performance
A whole week's worth of battery, with accurate sleep tracking.
5/5
Oura Ring 5: Should I buy?
(Image credit: Future)
Buy it if...
You want wellness tracking From stress to sleep, you can turn your health vital's raw data into useful insights.
You want a smart ring that looks like jewellery The smart ring manages to be stylish, small and light, and comfortable.
Don't buy it if...
You don't want to spend more than you need to You can find smart ring alternatives that deliver the same benefits for a lot less.
You want a fitness tracking wearable There are far more feature-rich fitness trackers available at a more affordable price.
Also consider
Component
Oura Ring 5
Samsung Galaxy Ring
Price
From $399 / £399 / AU$649
$399 / £399 / AU$699
Colors
Gold, Silver, Brushed Silver, Premium Gold, Stealth Black, Rose Gold
Black, Titanium Gold, Titanium Silver
Material
Titanium
Titanium
Weight
Between 2 (size 6) and 2.6g (size 13)
2.3g (size 5) 3.0g (size 13)
Battery life
Up to 7 days
Up to 7 days (ring), up to 6 charges (cradle)
Connectivity
Bluetooth 6.0
Bluetooth 5.4
Sensor array
Updated Smart Sensing array
PPG, accelerometer, skin temperature
Water resistance
IP68
IP68
GPS?
No
No
How I tested
I wore the Oura Ring 5 for two weeks, draining the battery completely (despite the app advising against letting it go below 30%). I have some gaps in my data from forgetting to put it back on, but I mostly didn't take it off. I tested the ring's heart rate monitoring accuracy against the Polar H10 chest strap, and compared its design to a ceramic Oura Ring 4.
Protecting a household of devices, storing family memories, and protecting your online identity would usually have your searching for multiple solutions from different providers. But right now, Norton 360 Advanced is currently 77% off, reducing the monthly cost of protecting 10 devices to just £2.92/mo.
It may not seen like it looking at the price, but 360 Advanced is Norton's highest level of protection - spanning across antivirus, data, identity, and financial defence.
Inside, you get Norton's award winning antivirus protection to defend against malware, ransomware, and hacking, alongside a 200GB Cloud Backup, password manager, parental control app, dark web monitoring, social media monitoring, financial monitoring, identity restoration support, and much more.
Antivirus protection that scored top marks across protection, performance, and usability - with a whole range of additional features to secure your financial and online identity. This package is perfect for those looking for a complete suite of protective software under one roof.
If you are used to storing your family photos or important documents on your home computer, there is always the risk of your computer failing or your storage corrupting.
Unless you have them backed up elsewhere, it could mean that you lose them forever. Storing them in a cloud backup adds a level of redundancy into your storage that helps to protect from these risks.
With Norton's 200GB cloud backup, you can choose which files are regularly uploaded in to the cloud, so that any recent changes you make are automatically saved into your online drive.
Password Manager
Its no secret that many people rely on the same password, or a combination thereof, across all of their accounts. From bank logins, to social media, and beyond - if just one of these passwords is leaked on compromised it can put your entire online life at risk.
Norton's password manager can securely store your current passwords, generate new, highly secure passwords, and autofill your credentials when you want to log on so you don't have to spend time remembering and typing long and complex passwords.
VPN private connection
A Virtual Private Connection (VPN) is an encrypted internet tunnel that secures your browsing traffic. That means that even if you internet activity is intercepted in transit, it cannot be read or decrypted.
This helps to protect against crooks attempting to steal your IP address or find your location, and can help secure your internet activity when browsing on unsecured networks such as those in cafes or airports.
Norton's VPN is fast and unlimited with over 100 connection locations across the globe.
Parental Control App
A parental control app helps you manage and secure the online activity of any children in your house. Unrestricted access to the internet can be dangerous, even in online gaming or on social media.
Norton's parental control app provides web filtering to remove unwanted websites from access, provides search engine monitoring, app blocking, and screen time monitoring.
Identity Protection Tools
Most of your identity is now stored online. From social media and online accounts, to the daily services you use to communicate. But sometimes things go wrong. Your credentials and personal information can get leaked during data breaches, and while it may not be your fault, hackers are just waiting for the opportunity to steal accounts and personal info.
Dark Web Monitoring
Norton's Dark Web Monitoring tool actively checks the parts of the internet where hackers like to post their finds. It regularly checks for your personal information and credentials and will notify you if anything suspicious is spotted, giving you precious time to change passwords or act as a heads up in case any suspicious emails or texts arrive in your inbox.
Identity Restoration Support
Norton's Identity Restoration Support provides expert advice and direct customer support in the case that your identity is compromised. You will have access to Restoration Specialists to help navigate how you can restore your identity, and live support from Norton experts for any questions or concerns you have about suspicious activity.
Social Media Monitoring
Norton's Social Media Monitoring provides oversight on your social media accounts for suspicious activity, account takeovers, and inappropriate content.
Financial Protection Tools
Credit Alerts, Credit Reports, and Credit Scores
Norton's Credit services provide regular credit scores and reports, and will notify you if any changes are made to your financial accounts or payments.
Stolen Wallet Assist
In the event your wallet is stolen, Norton's agents will guide you on how to cancel or replace credit cards, bank cards, driver’s licence and other cards.
Financial Monitoring
If any unusual subscriptions or payments are made from your accounts, Norton will notify you of the changes and help you navigate suspicious transactions.
The Amazon Prime Day deals are well and truly up and running — and if you're looking for an action camera, I've found a genuinely fantastic deal.
Cheap action cameras are all over the market these days, and having used and reviewed a few of them, I'm somewhat wary — the image quality just tends to be so poor that they aren't even worth their two-digit price. When it comes to cameras, you're almost always better off going for an older model from a well-regarded name than a newer one from a budget line — and that's why I think this massive deal on the DJI Osmo Action 4 is one to snap up.
First reviewed by our Cameras Editor Timothy Coleman back in 2023, the Osmo Action 4 takes the classic GoPro-style form actor and crams in a 1/1.3-inch sensor that delivers excellent video quality. With comprehensive waterproofing to depths of 18m (no case needed), highly effective RockSteady image stabilization, and a brilliant magnetic mounting system for accessories, it's a comprehensively equipped action cam for capturing dynamic footage of your adventures — and it's able to go places you wouldn't dream of taking your phone or 'proper' camera.
Sure, it's not the best action cam on the market anymore — not while the DJI Osmo Action 6 and GoPro Hero 13 Black exist. But the price! The Prime Day savings on the DJI Osmo Action 4 put it at $169 in the US and £199 in the UK. To put this in context, when Tim first reviewed it, the Osmo Action 4 cost $399 / £379!
Today's best DJI Osmo Action 4 deals (US)
It's two generations old now, with the Action 5 Pro and Action 6 having arrived since, but the DJI Osmo Action 4 still shoots crisp 4K video and has excellent waterproofing. The real appeal to this 2023 model is its low price, which with Prime Day savings is down to less than half of its original asking price.View Deal
Today's best DJI Osmo Action 4 deals (UK)
Savings are also excellent in the UK, with the Osmo Action 4 available for less than £160. This combo also includes a quick-release adapter mount, a charging cable, a lens hood and a protective frame.View Deal
Tim found the DJI Osmo Action 4 to be an ideal family holiday camera — it caused his mirrorless to stay in the bag! (Image credit: Future)
A complete package for content creators
Despite being a few years old, the Osmo Action 4 is still more than capable of producing imagery to the standard demanded by content creators in 2026. With a topline video resolution of 10-bit 4K video, it produces crisp and punchy footage, and offers a number of slow-mo options, as well as the option to shoot in the D-Log color profile to maximize dynamic range. This is everything a content creator could want, especially when you also factor in the punchy 10MP stills.
The later, pricier cameras are better in some areas — I've used the Osmo Action 6, and its low-light abilities are absolutely unreal. But most action camera footage is shot in bright daylight; they tend to be used for capturing POV footage of activities like surfing, cycling, snorkeling or skiing, and if you're not planning to do much shooting at night, you won't have a problem. And besides, as Tim found, the Osmo Action 4 isn't actually all that bad in low light — it's just not a patch on the cameras that have come along since.
The Osmo Action 4's simple UI means kids can use it without too much of a problem, making it a brilliant option for family holidays — this is a camera that won't mind being dropped, splashed, knocked or bumped.
The X4 Air is slightly lighter than the X5, which will feel like a benefit on a long day of shooting. (Image credit: Future)
It's also worth mentioning that if you're in the US, ongoing trade restrictions mean it can be difficult to get hold of newer DJI cameras like the Osmo Action 6, meaning an older model like the Action 4 could well be your best option.
But even if that's not an issue, at this price, I'd recommend the Osmo Action 4 to most people over the Osmo Action 6 — and I loved the Osmo Action 6. I took one on holiday to New York, and have it in a drawer beside me right now!
But this is just such good value for the level of functionality and image quality on offer. It's the perfect gateway for anyone thinking about dipping a toe into the world of action cameras — and it's a much, much better buy than a cheap-and-nasty action camera from a brand you've never heard of.
Professionals end every day feeling behind or burnt out, but not because they haven’t worked hard enough or clocked off earlier that day.
It’s because the volume of information, decisions, and context-switching is moving faster than the pace humans can realistically handle.
A recent Microsoft report put numbers to what people are feeling.
Eight in 10 of the global workforce say they lack enough time or energy to do their work, and 60% of meetings are happening as ad hoc calls or quick chats outside the pre-scheduled day-to-day.
This isn’t a motivation problem, it’s a capacity one - and it's created one of the defining contradictions of modern work. Businesses have never had more ideas, expertise, or ambition at their disposal, yet the people inside them are increasingly starved of the time and clarity needed to turn that potential into progress.
The smartphone makes this contradiction impossible to ignore. It is one of the most consequential inventions of the 21st century, yet also one that many people actively try to use less. Screen-time limits and digital detoxes are not anti-technology trends. They are signs that people are trying to regain control over a tool that has become indispensable, but increasingly overwhelming.
The message is simple: the market isn't asking for more technology. It's asking for relief.
Technological exhaustion
People are adopting or looking at things like digital assistants, wearable AI, focus apps, and workflow automation, not because the technology is impressive. They're doing it because they're exhausted.
That distinction matters because cognitive overload has become a workplace crisis. And the first wave of wearable AI missed the opportunity to solve it.
Instead of building practical tools, companies chased futuristic visions. Early wearable AI products asked "what can AI do?" instead of "what problem needs solving?"
The Humane Pin is the most obvious and probably the most well-known industry example. The vision was compelling, but the execution wasn't there. It positioned itself as a complete phone replacement before proving it could do even just one thing better than a phone. Ultimately, it tried to be everything and ended up being nothing.
This approach didn't reduce cognitive overload - it created more. Another device to manage. Another thing running in the background of an already overwhelming life.
The wrong question asked was: "How do we replace the phone entirely?"
A much better question is: “Where are people losing the most time, energy, and clarity — and how can technology give some of it back without demanding more from them?”
Useful technologies
The most useful technologies rarely arrive by replacing everything at once. The calculator didn't try to replace the accountant - it eliminated one specific source of friction and became indispensable.
It’s the same with wearable AI assistants. Progress is made in practice, not promises.
The wearables gaining real traction share one quality: users can explain their value in a single sentence. "This device exists so I can stop worrying about X." That clarity isn't a constraint - it is the product.
The future of this category will not be defined by the devices with the boldest premise. It will be defined by those who understand where people are most overloaded and remove that pressure without asking for much in return.
Does the technology make someone feel more capable or more managed? Does it reduce the number of things they have to remember, check, repeat, and translate? Does it create clarity, or simply another stream of information?
Those questions are less glamorous than asking whether AI can replace the smartphone. But they are also far more useful.
The wearables that will actually help aren't the ones with the boldest premise; they're the ones that solve one real problem but do it well.
In a world drowning in information, that may be the most ambitious thing technology can do.
This article was produced as part of TechRadar Pro Perspectives, our channel to feature the best and brightest minds in the technology industry today.
The views expressed here are those of the author and are not necessarily those of TechRadarPro or Future plc. If you are interested in contributing find out more here: https://www.techradar.com/pro/perspectives-how-to-submit
Before I tried my first IPL machine, I was suspicious. A handheld device that flashes at your skin and it somehow zaps away your body hair? It all sounded rather unlikely. Except then I got one, and it did just that, and it's been my summertime savior for the past five years.
I paraphrased before, so let me back up a bit. IPL stands for Intense Pulsed Light: multiple wavelengths of light that look a little like a photo flash. (They're different to a laser, which uses one concentrated beam.) You remove the hair from the bit of skin you want to be fuzz-free, and then run your device over that patch. The light targets the follicle that sits under the surface of your skin, damaging or destroying it so it doesn't grow back.
The results, for me, are incredible. It's by far the most effective, long-lasting and side-effect-free method of hair removal I've tried (and I have tried them all). However, there are a few things to know before buying one — scroll down for the key things I tell anyone who asks me if I'd recommend an IPL.
I was particularly inspired to share my tips now, because there are several heavily discounted IPL machines (including my own Braun Silk-Expert Pro 5 — five years old and still going strong) included in the Amazon Prime Day sales. So if you read my tips and decide to buy, now's a great time to do so.
1. They won't work for all hair types in all places
Because of the zapping mechanism, IPL machines work best on dark hair on pale skin — the bigger the contrast, the better. That means they won't work for everyone — people with fair, fine body hair likely won't see much of a difference, and ditto those with darker skin tones.
Further to that, they might not work equally well everywhere on your body. For instance, my IPL doesn't really do much for my leg hair, whereas it's much more effective on my underarms.
2. They're pain-free and the results last
That light looks like it's going to hurt, right? Wrong. The IPL process is pretty much pain-free, save for it occasionally feeling a bit hot. I also don't have an issue with itchy or awkward regrowth in the way I do with shaving.
If you struggle with a bad reaction to other hair removal methods, note that you will need to remove all your hair in your target area before you go over it with the IPL machine. Shaving it is recommended, so you will need to deal with that nasty regrowth at least once.
However, I've found that after that first use, the amount of hair that comes back is significantly reduced, and then after the second or third cycle, basically nothing grows back. It's really incredible.
3. They won't get rid of hair permanently
The instructions with my machine state you should use your IPL weekly for a few weeks (I do four), and then monthly going forward after that. After around three weeks, there's no hair there, but if I don't continue with top-up sessions, after a few weeks the hair will start to return, and eventually it'll be right back to pre-IPL state. So you will need to keep up with your maintenance zapping; this isn't a permanent solution.
Got more questions? Ping me in the comments section, I am happy to help. Or if I've convinced you that an IPL is right for you, let's take a closer look at the best deals available now.
Most people will snag a new Apple Watch during Amazon Prime Day and then call it a day, but have you ever thought that your new wearable could benefit from some accessories?
We're quick to get the screen protectors and cases for our iPhones, but I feel that this attitude isn't applied to the best smartwatches as it is with smartphones. Now that we're deep into this year's Prime Day event, there are just as many deals on Apple Watch accessories as there are on the devices themselves.
One of the best accessories to get at a cheeky discount are watch straps, especially since Apple's own range is quite expensive. On a non-Prime Day, watch strap alternatives are actually reasonably priced, but during sales events they can drop to less than $10, or £10 if you're shopping in the UK. Portable power banks are also overlooked, and give you reason to no longer carry around your charging lead with you.
Today's best Apple Watch accessory deals in the US
Lugging around your Apple Watch charging lead isn't the most convenient, so having one within reach lifts that pain point. Not only is this portable charger also great for travelling and can be attached to your keys, it's compatible with every Apple Watch model, so you don't need to upgrade your wearable to be able to use it. View Deal
Multi-use charging docks are a handy way to ensure your Apple Watch, iPhone, and AirPods can all be charged at the same time, but some charging stations can break the bank. This space-saving dock from Anlmz is less than $20 this Prime Day, and also comes in handy for hands-free viewing on your iPhone. View Deal
Apple Watch bands are just as good an investment as the wearables themselves, as they can change its whole look. Though I do like the level of comfort you get from Apple's silicone bands, this sub-$8 nylon wristband is a solid alternative, and a secure option if you're active with your wearable. View Deal
Today's best Apple Watch accessory deals in the UK
Power banks aren't just for smartphones, they're great for Apple Watches too. $40 is a bit steep for a small, keychain-sized portable charger, so a 53% discount is what we like to see. View Deal
If you're not prepared to spend the best part of £50 on one of Apple's official straps, Amazon has some great alternatives this Prime Day for less than a tenner — and they're compatible with the most recent models in Apple's wearable lineup. View Deal
While you'll still need your Apple Watch charger to make use of this stand, it's a handy tool to have with you if you do happen to carry your charger around with you daily. This stand also folds flat, making it a lot easier to pack and travel with. View Deal
You'd be surprised at how easy it is to accidentally knock your Apple Watch while on the move, no matter how well you take care of it. A protective shield will add weight to your wearable, but you'll be thankful when it stops your Apple Watch from scratches and other damage. Just don't make the same mistake as me and buy the wrong size. View Deal
Aldi has announced a new range of mini cooling fans
There's a tripod fan, a multi-directional globe fan, and an evaporative cooler
They'll be available in the middle aisle from July 2, starting at £6.99
Aldi, famed for its bargain home gadgets, has just announced a new set of budget-friendly cooling fans to help you stay cool without burning a hole in your wallet. The set of three fans will be available in the middle aisle of Aldi stores from July 2, so although they won't be able to stop you sweating during the current heatwave, you can make sure you're prepared the next time the temperature soars.
For me, the most interesting fan in the collection is the £6.99 Fan with Flexible Tripod. Not only is this the cheapest option, it's also the most flexible — literally. Its Joby GorillaPod-style legs bend and grip, so you can position it just right on your desk, wrap it around the handlebar of a pushchair, or attach it to a treadmill at the gym.
(Image credit: Aldi)
Another intriguing option is the Portable Air Cooler with LED (£14.99), which lowers the temperature in your room using water and ice evaporative technology. Water absorbs quite a lot of heat when it evaporates, which has a significant cooling effect, which makes this kind of device (also charmingly known as a 'swamp cooler') an effective way to keep your cool without raising your electricity bill.
Finally, we have the Globe Fan with Multi Direction (£39.99), which looks more like a typical desk fan, but has an unusual "360-degree auto-rotating" head that pans all the way around your room. It comes with a remote control, and has three modes: Natural Wind, Drying (for laundry), and Sleep.
If you can't wait until next week and are willing to splash some more cash for quicker relief, we've rounding up all the best Amazon Prime Day deals on heatwave essentials including fans, portable air conditioners, and ice cream makers.
How many more times (and in how many more ways) can I say this? Nothing's most recent batch of colorful, joyful and hang it all refreshingly different listening gear is nothing short of excellent for the money.
And the thing is, those already-excellent asking fees have just been further reduced, in some cases by up to 49% off for Prime Day.
My pick of the over-ear headphones bunch would be the excellent noise-cancelling CMF Headphone Pro, which have absolutely no business looking this good, or indeed sounding so fabulously fun, for just $65 — a massive 34% off an original launch fee that's barely eight months old.
And I'm not even done! I also love the firm's second stab at flagship headphones, the Nothing Headphone (a), not to be confused with the inaugural Heaphone (1) which do not feature in this list (yes, I know Nothing's naming strategy can be confusing. That's why you stick with me). No, this newer, far better set of over-ears retains the unusual aesthetic of the original effort but adds much better, fuller, more expansive audio and offers excellent on-ear controls to further enhance it all, plus a battery life that's, well, nothing short of excellent.
Not after headphones or earbuds? It's OK, you can see the best of the new deals, as they drop, in our Amazon Prime Day live blog.
Nothing's huge Prime Day sale — the cans and earbuds to snap up
CMF
Headphone Pro
Nothing
Headphone (a)
Nothing
Ear (a)
Nothing
Ear (3)
CMF by Nothing
Buds Pro 2
CMF
Buds 2(a)
If I had to pick, I'm still going for the delightfully fresh, luxuriously padded teal CMF Headphone Pro, which I regularly reach for (and I test headphones for a living, remember) owing to the easy-breezy on-ear controls and fun, zealous sound when I'm out and about.
That said, there's a little more clarity in the Headphone (a) and I do love the cassette-type look of the ear cups. But if you need a bit of wiggle room in your bag for other essentials, earbuds suddenly start looking very good indeed, no?
That said, the Nothing Ear (3) are the best if you regularly record your voice, thanks to their 'Super Mic'. It's the shiny button directly under the snappy case magnet labelled 'TALK' and it's a lot of fun. It's best to think of it as very much like those little clip-on wireless mics content creators hold very close to their mouths on social media — except now, they might hold an earbuds case to their lips to add voiceovers.
Nothing calls Super Mic a "breakthrough dual-microphone system driven by ambient-filtering technology." Essentially, the dual MEMS beamforming mics built into the case focus on your voice, cutting through surrounding noise (up to 95dB is the claim) for clearer calls and voice notes. And no other product in this little roundup has it. Food for thought, then…
In my glowing 4.5-star review of these truly likeable September 2025-issue noise-cancelling over-ears, I said they "could easily cost twice as much", adding "you'll struggle to find a more original set of affordable headphones that offer this much for this little". Well, now that figure has shrunk to just $61.75, a fee our price trackers have never seen until now — their previous all-time low price was $68, just for full clarity. For this money, and as long as the glorious white or light green colorways suit, I wouldn't even hesitate. Highly recommended! View Deal
A moment for the 'fried-egg-meets-cassette-tape' colorway though… yes, it's a look for the bold, but the deal is live on the slightly more demure black or white finishes too, and this March 2026 set of noise cancelling cans doesn't just excite us in the looks department. These aren't to be confused with the slightly disappointing Headphone (1) — no no, this is the greatly improved (and far cheaper) follow-up set. And in our full review, we summarised our thoughts thus: "Now THAT's how you do a second version". This is the cheapest they've ever been, but given that they're barely three months old, that's not surprising… View Deal
I know we're all buzzed about the imminent opening of pre-orders for GTA VI. But for me, that ties for most exciting gaming news this month, after Nintendo announced The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time remake is also dropping later on this year. So if you're as into Zelda games as I am and have a decent chunk of cash spare, I'd absolutely recommend you pick up a Nintendo Switch 2 this Prime Day.
As an ardent fan, The Legend of Zelda series lives absolutely rent-free in my head. I cut my teeth on the sublime pixel art of A Link to the Past on the SNES, donned many mantles in Majora's Mask, and banished the gloom in Twilight Princess. But it's almost certainly Ocarina of Time that made the biggest impression on me at the time, thanks to its epic time-hopping story and, at the time, groundbreaking 3D visuals.
So even though I've played the game to completion an almost shameful number of times, you better believe that I'll be picking up the remake on day one of its release. If you're similarly set on reliving one of the greatest games of all time but don't yet have a Nintendo Switch 2, I have one piece of advice for you: grab your console now.
While epic Prime Day discounts are pretty thin on the ground, there's still a good reason to pick one up now. Thanks to the ongoing RAM crisis, Nintendo has already revealed that price rises are coming to the Switch 2. It's been confirmed that, come September, the price US buyers will pay is increasing from $449 to $499 — and while the exact price rise hitting the UK market is yet to be revealed, expectations are that it will be in roughly the same ballpark as in the US.
With its larger, gorgeously vivid 1080p display, silky smooth performance and more sturdy build, the Switch 2 feels every bit the upgrade over its predecessor. And while you can't currently get it for much of a discount, with the price increasing by $50 in September, this may well be the best deal you'll get for a long while.
Not only is its screen flat out gorgeous, packing plenty of brightness and vibrant colors, but it's silky smooth, hitting highs of 120Hz for compatible games. And performance is impressive — even a much more demanding title like the recent Indiana Jones and The Great Circle port feels great, despite being locked at 30fps rather than the 60fps (or above) hit by other platforms. That's an impressive feat for a handheld console this compact.
And the roster of games available for the Switch 2 has expanded massively since release. Donkey Kong Bananza feels like the exact breath of fresh air the series needed, adding a fun new gimmick in its landscape-smashing shenanigans, while I've genuinely been hoping to see a Metroid Prime 4 for almost two decades now. But it's Pokémon Pokopia that has most thoroughly hijacked my brain's dopamine system, allowing me to pour countless hours into building mansions and amusements for my 'mons.
However, if I hadn't already upgraded, there's no doubt that The Legend of Zelda: The Ocarina of Time remake would have pushed me over the top. Getting to relive my nostalgia-soaked memories of one of the greatest adventures of all time with a fresh new coat of paint is a compelling hook indeed. And for any fan dead set on experiencing it, I'd honestly recommend you getting your Switch 2 ordered now before you have to fork out for that extra markup.
Amazon Prime Day is currently in full swing (despite it still being labelled a day, it's actually most of this week), and as usual, TechRadar's merry band of deals experts are scouring both Amazon and rival retailers to help you find the very best deals.
Reddit, the massive website that allows users to post about all manner of subjects, has also become a great resource for highlighting deals, as millions of Redditors from around the world share deals they've spotted.
Reddit's huge user base means there's a steady stream of great deals going up that could easily be missed. However, you still need to be careful, as not every deal will actually be worth buying.
So, wouldn't it be nice to combine the wide scope of Reddit's deal hunters with TechRadar's trusted, independent tech advice? Well, you're in luck, as that's exactly what I'll be doing here. I'll go through some of the most popular Reddit deals and highlight them here, along with my own buying advice based on nearly 20 years of experience as a tech journalist.
The 65-inch LG C5 OLED, TechRadar's best-rated TV, is $1,300 off at Best Buy. Awarded five out of five stars in our review, the OLED display delivers an outstanding picture thanks to LG's Alpha 9 AI processor Gen8, impressive gaming features, and a comprehensive smart platform featuring all-new AI capabilities.
Here is an Amazon exclusive deal on a massive display. You can get TCL's 98-inch QM64L Series for $1,799.99, which is an incredible price for a TV of this size. A truly great budget mini-LED TV, the TCL QM64L delivers vibrant picture quality and solid gaming features for a price that won't break the bank.
The TCL QM7K is a feature-packed mini-LED TV that over-delivers for its price range. It has great picture quality and a ton of solid gaming features. While this discount may be small, it does take the 65-inch model down to a new record-low price of $749.99.
This entry-level Mini-LED TV from TCL is an excellent buy at this low price. Newer and more powerful versions are available, but in terms of value for money, this display is incredibly hard to beat. It offers a detailed, bright picture, vivid colors, and an intuitive Google TV interface to access top streaming apps. It's a whole lot of TV for a relatively low price.View Deal
The TCL QM7K is a feature-packed mini-LED TV that over-delivers for its price range. It has great picture quality and a ton of solid gaming features. While this discount may be small, it does take the 65-inch model down to a new record-low price of $749.99.
My favorite Prime Day Apple deal is an over $100 discount on the Apple Watch Series 11. The thinnest Apple Watch yet, with a wraparound LTP3 OLED display, it's a great-looking watch with Apple Intelligence-powered smarts and a boosted battery, clocking in at 24 hours of average use.
This larger model of the Apple Watch Series 11 likes to yo-yo in price so it's difficult to tell when the next price drop will occur, so it may be worth scoring it now while you can, especially if you don't like to take risks when it comes to Prime Day.View Deal
The Apple Watch SE 3 is back to its lowest price ever for Prime Day 2026. Apple's entry-level smartwatch is currently our pick for the best Apple Watch to buy if you're on a budget, as it delivers a full health and fitness tracking experience, all the convenient on-wrist features you need, and that familiar Apple style, but at a fraction of the price.
Our CMF Buds Pro 2 review highlights the fun range of color options and a novel design, though we do criticize sound quality and noise cancellation. However, with this new price cut, they are incredible value for money if you're looking for some dirt-cheap wireless earbuds and aren't looking for the highest possible sound quality.View Deal
Don't miss out on this fantastic deal for the Apple AirPods Max 2. They're currently available at Amazon with $150 discount. I've got a pair, and I love them — they are especially good if you have multiple Apple devices, as it can cleverly switch between them whilst you work.View Deal
If you want a cheap Windows laptop, then this configuration of the Asus Vivobook Go is an excellent buy and terrific value for money. You get an AMD Ryzen 5 processor, 8GB of RAM and a large 512GB SSD to ensure good overall performance and enough essential speedy storage for the price. It's a top buy right now if you're on a budget and need a laptop for general everyday use, admin tasks, light work, or schoolwork.View Deal
There's a big saving on this Asus Vivobook 14 at Amazon. It's a modern machine, with an efficient Snapdragon X processor, 16GB of RAM and a 512GB SSD, so you have enough power and storage space for everyday jobs. It's a top buy right now if you have a reasonable budget and need a strong mid-range laptop for general use, admin tasks, light work, or schoolwork. It also boasts an incredible 29-hour battery life.View Deal
This HP OmniBook 3 deal with Snapdragon X X1-26-100 CPU, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD and 16-inch 2K display isn't quite the same as the one highlighted on Reddit, but I think it's a much better deal. It's a bit more expensive but you get much better specs - including 16GB rather than the 8GB model mentioned in the Reddit thread.View Deal
This is a great price, with a $250 saving, on the Asus Vivobook 16 wtih AMD Ryzen AI 5 330 CPU, 16GB RAM,| 512GB SSD and 16-inch 2K display. For around $500, this is a Windows 11 laptop that can give the MacBook Neo a run for its money when it comes to pure value.View Deal
It's been a long time since I've seen an RTX 5070 gaming laptop this cheap, but is this Acer Nitro V Slim 16 is hitting a rock-bottom price at Best Buy today. Almost unbelievably, I believe this one is incorrectly listed with a "Ryzen 2000 series" chipset rather than a Ryzen 7-260 since you get 16GB of DDR5 RAM. Regardless, this is a rare example of a budget RTX 5070 gaming laptop. View Deal
With an Intel Core 9 275HX processor, 32GB of RAM and 1TB of storage, this is an incredibly powerful gaming laptop, though the RTX 5060 GPU lets the side down a little. Don't get me wrong, it's still a fine GPU that will handle modern games at 1080p without issue, but it feels slightly underpowered compared with the rest of the specs. Still, $260 off makes this a tempting laptop deal.View Deal
This is a great deal highlighted on Reddit for the M4 model, which is slightly older than the current M5 MacBook Air. You get 16GB memory and 256GB SSD, and the price is impressively low - but just make sure you know that this is a 'Renewed' device (the Reddit post doesn't mention this), which means it's not new, but it should be fully checked to ensure it's in working order.View Deal
With an impressive $150 discount, this Prime Day deal addresses our main complaint about the M5 Air: it's pricier than the previous model. Now, you're getting the latest chipset, 16GB of RAM, and a bigger 512GB SSD for much less, with a price that arguably challenges even the budget MacBook Neo when it comes to outright value.
A great-value older MacBook Air that still holds its own against the newer model. You get 512GB SSD storage and 16GB RAM together with an M3 chip that still feels fast. This deal knocks 38% off the 13-inch laptop's price.View Deal
The newest MacBook Air M5 is here, and it just got its biggest discount yet on Amazon. Our reviewer called it "the best ultraportable I've ever used" and awarded it 4.5 stars, so it's every bit as good as its already excellent predecessor. As well as the powerful and efficient M5 chip, the latest MacBook Air boasts a slick 13.6-inch Liquid Retina display, 16GB of RAM, and a 512GB SSD as standard. Those are solid overall specs for all-around use, productivity, and creative tasks.View Deal
Air fryers are always big sellers on Prime Day (I bought mine during last year's event), and this is a great deal highlighted on Reddit, saving you $50 off a large air fryer from popular Ninja rival Chefman.View Deal
DJI’s debut 360 camera is an undeniably classy effort – and a strong challenger to sector leader Insta360 and its best-in-class X5. This bundle includes an 'invisible' selfie stick and extra battery, all for $175 less than usual.
This is a decent saving off a 4K dash cam that covers both the front and rear of your vehicle for all-round protection. Thanks to a $16 discount, it's one of the more affordable dash cams you can get at the moment.View Deal
Lego has produced many Millennium Falcon sets, but this smaller one, which debuted for the 25th anniversary of Star Wars: A New Hope, is an excellent model and even better with a 20% discount. It's currently available at the lowest price ever, at $67.98, and makes a superb display piece.View Deal
R2-D2 is the most iconic droid around, and right now, you can build your own version of the epic piece of Star Wars out of 1,050 bricks for just $79.99. That's a 20% discount from the $99.99 MSRP, and Prime members get free fast shipping. This set is themed to the 25th anniversary of Lego Star Wars and comes with a mini R2-D2, a display plate, and a Darth Malak minifigure.View Deal
If you're a fan of the Dark Side, this Lego set is perfect for you, and it's down to a record-low price. For Amazon Prime Day, the Imperial Star Destroyer is just $111.99 – a massive 30% or $48 discount for a 1,555-piece set that includes 7 Minifigures.View Deal
With this Lego Creator 3-in-1, you can build an adorable red fox, an owl on a branch, or a squirrel with an acorn. Best of all, it's 30% off at $34.99.View Deal
At 30% off, this Lego City set offers many builds that provide hours of play. The City Construction Trucks and Wrecking Ball Crane is 30% off for Prime Day at $41.99 and is designed for ages 4 and up.View Deal
This delightful set, at 30% off, can complement any Lego City setup. Although really, it's a fit for anyone who likes cars! Right now, the Lego City Car Transporter Truck with Sports Cars is just $69.99 on Amazon.View Deal
Some other users are reporting similar bugs in the AI
If you're already worried about the potential dangers of AI chatbots, this one probably isn't for you: an Amazon Echo user has reported Alexa+ "breathing and making guttural sounds" while engaged in the supposedly innocent task of counting to 40 (in Spanish).
There's video evidence on Reddit (via Android Authority), and it's pretty spooky to listen to — so only click the play button if you're sure you want to hear a disembodied AI-generated voice that sounds somewhat possessed.
According to the user who posted the video, they asked Alexa+ to count up to 40, which prompted the strange sounds. It's not an ideal response, especially as there were two five-year-old kids listening who just wanted a simple countdown.
Apparently, the original poster was then able to get the same thing happening on a separate Amazon Echo in another room. "Needless to say, the Alexas in my house are now unplugged and I've reported the whole thing to Amazon," they report.
While it's possible that some kind of user error or AI fakery has produced this video, it's odd that it would happen on two different devices — and there's at least one other user in the Reddit thread saying they've experienced something similar.
It's almost certainly down to a bug in Alexa+: the new and upgraded AI assistant is intended to be more conversational and more expressive, and in this case it seems to have gone too far (in the same way that AI chatbots can introduce hallucinations and tangents when writing out text).
When pushed, Alexa+ itself said that "something in my environment" must have caused the glitch, though it's not clear what that something might be. Perhaps it's the ghost of Alexa past, which Alexa+ has now replaced.
The Reddit reactions describe the speaker as "haunted", "terrifying", and in need of an exorcism, though the fix is likely to be no more complicated than a tweak to the Alexa+ AI model from Amazon's side.
With Grand Theft Auto 6 dropping in November, time is running out if you want to play the previous games in the series before diving in. If you own a modern console, there aren't that many to catch up on, as only a few of the older ones have been ported.
Still, you can play through the whole of Grand Theft Auto 5, the previous entry, and dive into Grand Theft Auto Online, which has its own narrative content and is included free of charge. There's also Grand Theft Auto: The Trilogy – The Definitive Edition, which contains remasters of not just one but three fan-favorite games.
They're not the most accomplished remasters on the planet, but given that Grand Theft Auto: Vice City, which shares a setting with the upcoming GTA 6, I would consider it an essential play before the new game arrives.
US government ordered Anthropic to pull frontier models for foreign nationals
Legal AI startup claims it had contractual access to those models
Anthropic doesn't agree with the White House – but complies
Legal AI startup Legion LegalTech Corp has filed a lawsuit challenging a June 12 government order that forced Anthropic to restrict access to its most advanced AI models, Fable 5 and Mythos 5, for foreign citizens (via Reuters).
According to the complain, the Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) gave Anthropic around 90 minutes to comply with the order, or face civil and criminal penalties.
All foreign nationals, including those living inside and outside of the US, and even Anthropic's own employees, are said to be affected by the order.
Government order to ban Anthropic models internationally legally challenged
Legion LegalTech Corp acknowledges that the order was triggered because of concerns that users could jailbreak models into reviewing software code and identifying vulnerabilities, but the startup argues this is a common capability of all frontier models and doesn't just affect Anthropic's models.
The company says it had contractual access to Anthropic's Fable 5 model, and was actively integrating it into its products that draft and manage cases. Because the company employs Canadian developers working remotely from Canada, it lost access to the model once restrictions took effect.
"Anthropic took no independent action to restrict Legion’s access; it complied with the government’s command under threat of enforcement consequences," the lawsuit reads.
The lawsuit argues that no current export control classifications cover access to cloud-hosted AI models. It also references an independent reviewer, who sees the government's action as disproportionate and "way out of line."
Anthropic announced the frontier models on June 9. By June 12, it had released a statement in response to the government directive, criticizing the government for "not provid[ing] specific details of its national security concern."
"We are complying with the government’s legal directive and are removing access to Fable 5 and Mythos 5 for all users."
For most of the world, the 2026 FIFA World Cup will be remembered as a sporting event. For cybersecurity teams, it will function more like a live multinational stress test.
Spanning three countries, 16 host cities, and thousands of miles of transportation corridors, the tournament depends on an interconnected ecosystem of physical and digital infrastructure operating under sustained pressure for more than a month.
Airports, rail systems, hotels, fan festivals, credentialing platforms, broadcast operations, rideshare services, and public-facing digital services will all be strained simultaneously.
That scale fundamentally changes the security equation.
From a threat intelligence perspective, the defining challenge of the 2026 World Cup is the convergence of physical, cyber, social, and geopolitical risks across shared IT infrastructure and compressed operational timelines. Security teams are no longer managing isolated threats — they are forced to manage cascading disruption, where pressure in one domain can rapidly affect another.
A phishing campaign targeting transportation staff could disrupt rail operations moving tens of thousands of fans. A localized protest could overwhelm nearby transit systems and alter executive movement plans. A ransomware incident affecting a hospitality provider could create physical security concerns if communications or access systems fail during peak crowd periods.
This is the reality of large-scale global events in 2026: the attack surface is no longer just the venue, it’s the infrastructure surrounding the whole event.
At the time of writing, Flashpoint has not identified any specific, credible threats targeting the tournament. That should not be mistaken for a low-risk environment. Events of this scale consistently attract opportunistic criminal activity, fraud operations, extremist messaging, coordinated protest movements, and attempts to exploit operational strain.
The Security Perimeter Extends Far Beyond the Stadium
Historically, security planning for major sporting events has centered on venue protection. For the 2026 FIFA World Cup, that model is no longer sufficient.
With matches spread across three countries and 16 cities, much of the risk now sits outside controlled environments across transit systems, hotels, fan zones, entertainment districts, and the broader infrastructure moving people, information, and services between them.
In many cases, these environments carry greater uncertainty than the stadiums themselves. Security visibility is uneven, access controls are inconsistent, and crowd density, alcohol consumption, and movement constraints create conditions where relatively minor incidents can escalate quickly.
Protests are likely to add another layer of complexity. Demonstrations tied to immigration policy, labor concerns, geopolitical tensions, and broader political movements are expected to occur across multiple host cities during the tournament. Most demonstrations will likely remain lawful and localized.
While most demonstrations will likely remain lawful and localized, the risk emerges when protest activity intersects with transportation choke points, fan movement patterns, or already strained public infrastructure.
Threat intelligence teams should pay close attention to how online rhetoric translates into physical coordination.
Many of the indicators that matter most during events like the World Cup appear early through fragmented digital activity: encrypted messaging channels, localized social media conversations, extremist propaganda ecosystems, fraud marketplaces, and open-source coordination efforts.
The intelligence challenge is rarely a lack of data. It is identifying which signals indicate a meaningful shift in operational risk.
Crowd Dynamics and Operational Disruption
Crowd behavior remains one of the most persistent, and often underestimated, security challenges at large-scale events.
Mass gatherings create conditions where panic can spread faster than verified information. Overcrowding, pyrotechnics, aggressive supporter behavior, or sudden movement within confined transit areas can trigger cascading safety incidents without any organized attack occurring.
Recent years have also shown increasing coordination among certain supporter networks and hooligan groups, including the use of encrypted communications and reconnaissance activity to organize around less-secured gathering points outside official venues.
These risks matter because they place pressure on the systems surrounding the event, not solely the event itself. The same convergence is visible across the cyber threat landscape.
We are likely to see elevated levels of phishing activity, ticket fraud, domain impersonation, social engineering, and opportunistic attacks targeting tournament-related infrastructure. Threat actors understand that large events create urgency, emotional decision-making, and predictable behavior patterns. Fans searching for tickets, transportation, accommodations, or livestreams become easier targets for spoofed domains and fraudulent communications.
The operational implications extend well beyond consumer fraud losses.
A disruptive cyber incident affecting transportation systems, hospitality providers, third-party vendors, or venue operations during a high-attendance match day can rapidly create downstream physical security challenges. Delayed transit systems increase crowd concentration.
Failed communications systems complicate emergency response coordination. Access-control outages create confusion at security checkpoints. Small technical failures can compound quickly in dense environments operating on fixed timelines.
What Security Teams Should Prioritize Before the Tournament
Organizations supporting personnel, executives, vendors, or operations during the World Cup should prepare for an environment where physical and digital disruptions increasingly overlap.
That preparation starts with visibility.
Security teams should establish continuous monitoring around transportation disruptions, protest coordination, fraud infrastructure, and emerging operational incidents across both open and closed online sources. Threat indicators tied to major events often surface first through fragmented local reporting, encrypted messaging channels, social media coordination, and opportunistic criminal communities.
Travel security planning should also extend beyond venue access and hotel bookings.
Organizations should review how employees handle credentials, travel itineraries, executive movement, and event-related content online. During high-profile international events, threat actors routinely collect publicly available information to support impersonation attempts, social engineering campaigns, and physical targeting.
Employees, contractors, media personnel, and attendees frequently expose operationally sensitive information online without recognizing the downstream implications. Credential badges, transportation routes, executive locations, hotel details, and backstage access procedures often appear publicly across social media within minutes. Threat actors increasingly use these fragmented disclosures to map security procedures, identify soft targets, or facilitate social engineering operations.
Hospitality providers, transportation vendors, temporary staffing organizations, event technology platforms, and local service providers will all operate under elevated pressure during the tournament. Security incidents affecting those organizations can rapidly create downstream operational disruption for attendees, sponsors, media teams, and corporate travelers.
Finally, security leaders should prepare for disruption scenarios that fall below the threshold of a major crisis but still create operational consequences. Delayed transportation, localized unrest, communications outages, credentialing issues, and short-duration cyber incidents can all affect executive movement, employee safety, and business continuity during compressed event timelines.
The Organizations That Adapt Fastest Will Be Best Positioned
Events like the 2026 FIFA World Cup place unusual strain on security teams because disruption rarely stays contained within a single domain.
A cyber incident can create immediate physical consequences. Protest activity can disrupt transportation and executive movement. Crowd-management failures can generate downstream operational strain across hospitality, communications, and emergency response systems.
For security leaders, the challenge is maintaining visibility across these interconnected environments as conditions evolve in real time.
The organizations best positioned during the tournament will not necessarily be those with the largest physical security footprint. They will be the organizations capable of continuously correlating cyber indicators, physical activity, online narratives, and emerging operational disruptions into a coherent picture of risk.
Threat intelligence creates decision advantage in environments where conditions evolve by the minute.
This article was produced as part of TechRadar Pro Perspectives, our channel to feature the best and brightest minds in the technology industry today.
The views expressed here are those of the author and are not necessarily those of TechRadarPro or Future plc. If you are interested in contributing find out more here: https://www.techradar.com/pro/perspectives-how-to-submit
In case you hadn’t heard, GTA6 pre-orders are live tonight (June 25) at midnight. Due for general release on November 19, it’s been 13 years (!) since GTA 5 first launched two console generations ago. While you’re pre-ordering your copy, now might be the time to upgrade your TV to experience Vice City looking its best.
I test TVs for a living, and that includes the best gaming TVs. For GTA 6, you’re going to want excellent picture quality with vibrant colors, excellent motion handling for the fast-paced action, and a suite of gaming features to cover the bases. Below, I’ve picked five of the top gaming TVs to suit all budgets that will be perfect for tearing through Vice City.
You may notice that all of these TVs are from last year. While we’ve been testing the best TVs this year and a lot of them are great, last year’s TVs will be a much better value and still more than capable of doing justice to GTA 6. That’s why, for me, they’re the better option right now.
LG C5
(Image credit: Future)
The best place to start is with the top recommendation. Sitting at the top of our best gaming TV guide, as well as our best OLED TV guide, is the LG C5, a five-star OLED that can literally do it all. It has a full suite of features and superb picture quality that will be perfect for GTA 6.
The C5 delivers rich, bold colors with whatever it’s given, and this is going to be important for the neon-soaked streets of Vice City in GTA 6. Watching colorful movies like Elemental on the C5, colors really pop on screen, with oranges, reds, and blues all shimmering. It also delivers rich contrast with deep black tones, important again for that nightlife vibe in Vice City. With excellent motion handling, car chases will be a breeze for the C5.
Packed with a full suite of gaming features, the C5 is a top-notch gaming TV. Four HDMI 2.1 ports support 4K 144Hz, full VRR, HGiG, ALLM, and Dolby Vision gaming, and with a 9.2ms input lag time, expect super-responsive gameplay as you’re fleeing from the cops in GTA 6. It handled Battlefield V at 120fps with ease when I played it.
Price-wise, you’ll want to pay about $1,199 / £1,399 (stock is looking thin in Australia) for a 65-inch model. This will be a great size for seeing GTA 6 in all its glory, but the C5 is available in sizes 42 to 83 inches to cover every situation.
TCL QM6K/C6K
FutureFuture
If you’re looking for a TV upgrade but don’t want to break the bank, the TCL QM6K (known as the TCL C6K/Q6C depending on region and retailer) is a fantastic choice. It still has great picture quality and an impressive stock of gaming features for a very affordable price.
I tested the C6K as I’m based in the UK, and it has great overall picture quality. Its main highlight is its color reproduction. It produces vivid, natural colors that made movies like Wicked look great during my testing, accurately capturing the vibrant pink of flowers in trees. Expect the same for GTA 6. The C6K also demonstrated impressive backlight control and black tones for a mini-LED at this price range, working well for movies like The Batman. Again, Vice City nightlife should look great.
The C6K supports a lot for gaming, which is rare at this level. It supports 4K 144Hz, FreeSync Premium Pro, ALLM, and Dolby Vision gaming. It has a measured 13.6ms input lag, which is still above the 15ms threshold we look for. Gaming on it, I had a great time while playing Battlefield V, as it did a great job handling chaotic battle sequences, so it should be prepared for GTA 6.
Its real highlight is its price. A 65-inch QM6K has dropped as low as $529 and the C6K 65-inch will cost around £679/ AU$1,099. These are excellent prices for a TV this size and a great option for an affordable upgrade for GTA 6.
Samsung QN90F
(Image credit: Future)
Now, if you’re someone who’s planning to take some time off to play GTA 6, you’ll need a TV that works well in a bright room for daytime gaming sessions. Enter the Samsung QN90F, a brilliant gaming TV that also doubles as our best TV for sports.
The QN90F is the perfect TV for bright rooms for several reasons. It has solid brightness (exceeding 2,500 nits HDR peak and over 600 nits full screen) and an effective, anti-glare screen that does a great job reducing mirror-like reflections to a minimum. So, even if you have big windows, the QN90F can handle them. It also has great picture quality to go with it, producing punchy, accurate colors and strong contrast with surprisingly rich black tones. Expect GTA 6 to look great on this one.
The QN90F is equipped with a full list of gaming features, too. It supports 4K 165Hz, FreeSync Premium Pro, ALLM and HDR10+ gaming across four HDMI 2.1 ports. Its 9.5ms input lag time is up there with the very best, so you can expect it to handle the chaos of GTA 6 with no problems.
While the QN90F is a flagship model, its prices have dropped significantly. A 65-inch will cost you roughly $1,399 / £1,299 (stock in Australia is low again), which is again phenomenal pricing for a TV at this level.
LG B5
(Image credit: Future)
If you want an OLED but can’t quite stretch to the LG C5, the LG B5 is your next best option. It’s one of the best budget OLED TVs I’ve tested and delivers a lot of the same great performance and features as its step-up sibling.
With accurate, rich colors that suited the vibrant aesthetic of Wicked and Elemental, the B5 is sure to make GTA 6’s sun-soaked, colorful streets look fantastic. It also produces the powerful contrast with inky blacks you’d want from an OLED TV, despite its cheaper price range. While the B5 doesn’t have the brightness of other step-up OLEDs, it still has punchy highlights that will make the neon of Vice City pop.
The B5 is kitted out with a full list of gaming features, including 4K 120Hz, full VRR including FreeSync and G-Sync, HGiG, Dolby Vision gaming, and ALLM, all built into the four HDMI 2.1 ports. A measured 9.1ms input lag time is at the top of the gaming TV list, so expect all the action of GTA 6 to look superb.
The B5’s prices can fall to a deceptively affordable place for an OLED. You can get the 48-inch model, a perfect size for bedroom gaming, for as low as $549 / £569 / AU$1,169, meaning you don’t have to spend a fortune for OLED.
LG G5
(Image credit: Future)
The flagship OLED for LG in 2025, the LG G5, is like the C5 taken up a notch. It has a similar feature set but turns up the picture quality by another level with higher brightness, bolder colors, and more impactful contrast.
Testing the G5, its colors were its most impressive aspect. Vibrant, rich, and bright all at once, any colorful scene dazzled on screen, and I think it’s going to do the Miami-inspired Vice City serious justice in GTA 6. It also produces powerful contrast, expertly balancing deep black levels and bright highlights. Vice City nightlife will look stunning on this TV. It also produces extremely impressive textures that are 3D-like, along with refined detail.
This is another TV with an impressive list of gaming features. 4K 165Hz, full VRR including FreeSync and G-Sync, Dolby Vision gaming, HGiG, and ALLM are on all four HDMI 2.1 ports. Its measured 9.2ms input lag time again did wonders for Battlefield V’s fast-paced gunfights at 120fps when I played it, so it should do the same for GTA 6.
The G5 is at the more premium end of the TV market, with a 65-inch model costing $2,299 / £1,999 / AU$2,699, but if you are looking for the premium way to play GTA 6, this will be the TV to do it on.
Firstly, VideoCardz spotted that the Economic Daily News in Taiwan published a report in which the general manager of Asus, Liao Yi-hsiang, noted that as of May 2026, the price hikes on some Asus products in that country amounted to nearly 30% (compared to Q4 of 2025).
The executive then confirmed that Asus would be raising prices further in the second half of 2026 due to the component crisis, but that the increase should only be a single-digit affair. Under 10% is quite a drop compared to knocking on the door of 30%, of course.
Liao said that price rises would be milder because the cost of memory and storage had recently decreased, and also that consumers are increasingly unlikely to buy if more large hikes are heaped onto Asus products. Especially given that there was quite a lot of buying activity early in 2026, as consumers in Taiwan acted earlier than they would have otherwise, with a view to securing purchases before heftier price increases made themselves felt.
The other nugget of positivity is that, as Trading View informs us, there have been some interesting rumblings about SK Hynix, one of the big three memory chip makers (alongside Micron and Samsung).
There are reports that "SK Hynix may slow the expansion of AI memory-chip production and increase its focus on conventional DRAM products."
This apparent shift away from making HBM (the mentioned AI memory) to conventional RAM modules (the ones in consumer electronics) unsettled investors, and led to shares in SK Hynix tumbling over 12%. (Samsung followed suit with a 12% drop, and a wider tech share slide was witnessed, particularly for companies linked to the world of AI.)
What's bad news for investors is good news for consumers though; if this report is on the money, SK Hynix reallocating assembly lines to produce more DDR5 RAM could be the beginning of the end of the memory crisis.
Analysis: is the AI bubble ready to pop? I doubt it…
(Image credit: Getty Images)
You could leap to some big conclusions here, and the rumor around SK Hynix is a potential move that could have a significant impact for consumers. With some folks talking about the end of the 'AI bubble' in recent times — which feels like hopeful chatter indeed — it could be read as another indicator in that respect, too. However, it's way too early to make that kind of call (and I don't personally think we're seeing that by any means).
What we don't know is the extent of the apparent shift away from HBM, and anyway, the move could partly be about DRAM being so pricey now that it represents a tempting enough diversification in terms of SK Hynix's overall memory strategy (a theory raised in some quarters).
We should also remember that the chairman of SK Group (the parent company of SK Hynix), Chey Tae-won, has previously predicted that the RAM shortage may not be over until 2030 (a forecast more recently echoed by Nvidia's CEO). So, as noted, temper any optimism, but this is at least a positive sign from the big chip maker, as is the price prediction from Asus.
Regarding Asus, again there's a caveat — namely that it's an analysis for the Taiwanese market only. But if price rises in H2 2026 are only (roughly) a third of what they effectively were in the first half of the year, that'll surely be reflected to some extent globally. Also, it's very true that consumers everywhere will refuse to buy if pricing goes higher too quickly, which is something I've pointed out a few times before. This isn't something unique to Taiwan.
Finally, it's also worth noting that earlier this month, we heard some more positive news on the RAM crisis from David McAfee, AMD's VP and general manager of Ryzen CPU and Radeon GPUs.
As PC Gamer reported, McAfee said: "There is an enormous amount of capacity that is being built by the memory manufacturers to bring more production online, and that more production online is going to focus on DDR, LPDDR, HBM, like the newer memory technologies."
He added: "I don't expect a lot of DDR4 production to come back into the world, but those newer memory technologies, a significant amount of capacity is coming online. I think we'll start to see by the end of next year and into 2028 that that ramp really starts to take hold, and then it's just a factor of the forces of supply and demand, and how that affects memory prices."
OK, so this is really just a reminder of what we've already been told, but it's still worth bearing in mind that the expectation for some remains a considerable easing of the crisis by 2028.
There's a wealth of Prime Day 3D printer deals happening right now - and we've comprehensively reviewed over 50 of these machines, so I've gone through the entire Amazon sale, compared prices direct from the manufacturers, to highlight the top-performing 3D printers in our tests.
I've broken down the 14 3D printers by use, from beginner-friendly and budget performers to high-end machines built for business professionals and power users. You'll find the best US and UK prices here, alongside our star ratings and links to our full reviews, where we dive into deeper detail on performance.
If you're shopping for a 3D printer this Prime Day, these are the ones we recommend based on our full workshop testing. For more star performers, see my guide to the best 3D printers.
The A1 Mini from Bambu Lab scored top marks in our 5-star review, earning an Editor's Choice award. We called it "nothing more than groundbreaking when it comes to features and price." ★★★★★
Featuring some of the highest test scores for any 3D printer we've used, the Centauri Carbon is a superb single-filament machine. In our review, we said "it more than impresses with build quality, speed, and accuracy." ★★★⯪
The Centauri Carbon 2 Combo is capable of multi-color prints thanks to the CANVAS system. We found it ideal for hobbyists and small businesses, and "the printer didn’t fail to impress. The multifilament printing quality is exceptionally good." ★★★★⯪
Despite its relatively compact size, the A1 delivered "exceptional build quality and advanced features", striking the perfect balance for beginners and professionals. ★★★★★
The Anycubic Kobra S1 delivered quality, precision, and price. After putting this 3D printer through its paces, we found, "the precision and quality of the print finish are exceptional." ★★★★⯪
This is the best mid-range resin 3D printer you can get thanks to its ultra-precise print quality and lightning fast speeds. We found "the Photon Mono M7 Pro excels, producing intricate, detailed prints that rival more expensive models." ★★★★⯪
This 3D printer is as close to injection moulding as we've ever got. After tests, we noted "if you’re printing miniatures or jewellery designs, then the fine detail and accuracy make this a superb option."
The Photon P1 is a resin printer that managed a near-unheard of 100% success rate in our tests. We said "the quality from the 14K screen was exceptional, even with a low workshop temperature." ★★★★⯪
Our number one 3D printer for most people. It's especially good for small businesses, as one of the bundles includes a laser engraver, plotter, and cutter for crafting. ★★★★⯪
The Creality K1C is our 3D printer expert Alastair's favorite machine. He loved the "all-star specification that will appeal to all levels of users, from education to business to dedicated 3D printing enthusiasts." ★★★★⯪
This 3D printer is built for business - from the industrial design to the quality prints. We called the "the best choice for any professional looking for a 3D print solution."
A splendid performer in our tests (and unofficial upgrade to the K1C), our tests showed "an exceptional machine capable of producing some of the best 3D prints of any machine in this price bracket." ★★★★⯪
The Creality K2 Plus isn't for beginners, but when we checked out this multi-filament machine in workshop, we were impressed with the build quality, the range of features, and the outstanding prints at speed. ★★★★⯪
The Blair Witch Project reboot will be released on September 24, 2027
YouTube creator Dylan Clark will direct the project
Clark has already directed a number of horror shorts which are available for free on YouTube
The Blair Witch Project is getting a reboot, which will arrive in theaters worldwide on September 24, 2027. But of all the horror titles to reboot, I'm concerned this was a poor choice.
YouTube creator Dylan Clark has been announced as the director of the rebooted found footage horror movie, and there's no denying he's talented. His YouTube channel features a number of effective short films you can watch for free.
News of The Blair Witch Project's reboot was confirmed by Lionsgate on social media, where they shared the release date announcement.
YouTuber Curry Barker topped the horror charts with his original movie Obsession in 2026. (Image credit: Focus Features)
That's the big question among horror fans right now, and I'm sure people have plenty of strong opinions about it.
I'm certainly excited for Dylan Clark to be working with Lionsgate, but in a world where YouTubers Kane Parsons' Backrooms and Curry Barker's Obsessionare dominating the box office with their original stories, I'm unsure we should rely on a YouTuber to reboot an iconic movie like The Blair Witch Project instead of creating something new.
Indeed, recent box office figures have shown that there's an appetite for original storytelling, with both Parsons and Barker receiving widespread acclaim for their horror movies.
Backrooms made $277.4 million from its $10 million budget, and Obsession made $334.4 million from a budget of just $750,000 - incredibly impressive results which have no doubt caught the attention of Hollywood.
It's clear that horror fans want something new, and I'm among them. The only way I can see The Blair Witch Project working is if it is completely stripped back and told from a new angle.
But even so, perhaps a completely new found footage horror would have turned out better? When the original movie came out in 1999, it was exciting because it was an entirely fresh concept.
Curry Barker is currently working on a Texas Chainsaw Massacre reboot, which I was initially apprehensive about too, but he confirmed that he would be focusing on lesser-explored characters. I truly hope that Dylan Clark takes a similar angle and offers something new when it comes to The Blair Witch Project.
Right now I'm not filled with much confidence, but as always I am open to being proved wrong.
Past breach data show over 1.1 million soccer-related passwords
ExpressVPN found that nearly 1 in 4 football fans use this info in their logins
Experts urge to delete any sports references from account logins' details
As the FIFA World Cup kicks into high gear, millions of fans are displaying their loyalty online. While you might already be using the best VPN to secure your browsing, ExpressVPN — now an official supporter of the 2026 tournament — is warning that this very public fandom can translate into a major cybersecurity vulnerability.
In a new research report, cybersecurity researcher Jeremiah Fowler partnered with ExpressVPN to examine how soccer obsession influences our password choices. The results suggest that fans are openly handing hackers the keys to their digital lives by using highly predictable phrases.
Fowler's analysis of historical data breaches revealed more than 1.1 million soccer-related passwords. Words like "soccer," alongside massive club names such as "Liverpool," "Chelsea," "Arsenal," and "Barcelona," appeared repeatedly throughout the dataset.
Because fan loyalty is incredibly public, plastered across social media profiles, usernames, and group chats, these passwords are far easier to crack than a random string of characters.
"As a cybersecurity researcher, I've seen criminals target people through the interests they share most openly," Fowler explained. "A club name, player nickname, shirt number, stadium, city, or tournament year may look harmless on its own, but together those details can help someone guess how a fan might build a password or craft a message they're more likely to trust."
An open goal for cybercriminals
(Image credit: ExpressVPN)
To determine if this behavior remains common today, ExpressVPN surveyed 6,000 football fans across six countries. The findings confirm that bad password hygiene is still widespread.
Nearly one in four surveyed fans admitted to having used soccer-related information to secure an account.
Among these fans, the most common choices included their favorite team names, player names or nicknames, and jersey numbers. These easily searchable statistics are exactly what malicious actors look for when compiling custom dictionaries to breach an account.
The fans themselves are surprisingly aware of the risk. In the US, a massive 73.1% of those using soccer-themed passwords acknowledged that someone familiar with their sporting interests could likely guess their login.
Using a weak password becomes catastrophic when you consider password reuse. According to Aaron Engel, Chief Information Security Officer at ExpressVPN, the habit of using the same login across multiple services is what turns a minor breach into a full-scale privacy crisis.
"Password reuse is what allows one exposed credential to become a wider account-security problem," warned Engel.
He also noted that fans who share streaming logins put their personal data in further jeopardy: "Sharing passwords increases the number of people and devices that may hold that password; in doing so, users are putting their security into the hands of others. Multi-factor authentication doesn't undo reuse, but it can prevent a stolen password from being enough on its own."
If you want to stay safe while streaming the tournament, you should immediately strip any sports references out of your logins. Instead, use a dedicated password manager to generate complex, unique credentials for every account.
A smartphone can be a major investment — especially if you’re shopping for one of the best phones around — so it’s important to be sure that the device you’re buying isn’t just good for now, but good for many years to come.
Software support is a key factor in determining how long a phone will last, and in recent years, manufacturers have been committing to much longer product support windows than they used to. But not all phones get the same amount of support, and indeed some older phones will be approaching their final update in 2026.
So, below, we’ve detailed how long phones from Apple, Samsung, Google, and Motorola will continue to receive updates.
To keep things simple, we've focused on major brands with US availability, but if you have a recent high-end phone from the likes of Honor, Oppo, or Xiaomi, it will likely be in line for between five and six years of updates from its launch date. Older and lower-end models tend to be in the two-to-three-year range.
Apple iPhones
The iPhone 17 Pro (Image credit: Lance Ulanoff / Future)
Apple never used to commit to a specific support window for its phones, but that changed in 2024, when new UK regulations required brands to outline a minimum support window. As a result, Apple now promises a minimum of five years — but this only applies to security updates, not the kinds of iOS updates that add new software features. And five years is a minimum, with Apple often going beyond that number anyway.
All of which is to say we can’t be certain when iPhones will get their final update, but typically, they’re supported for between five and seven years.
So, the list below is our best guess for how many years of updates each currently supported iPhone model has left.
iPhone 17 series — 4-6 years (last update in 2030, 2031, or 2032)
iPhone Air — 4-6 years (last update in 2030, 2031, or 2032)
iPhone 16 series — 3-5 years (last update in 2029, 2030 or 2031)
iPhone 15 series — 2-4 years (last update in 2028, 2029, or 2030)
iPhone 14 series — 1-3 years (last update in 2027, 2028, or 2029)
iPhone SE (2022) — 1-3 years (last update in 2027, 2028, or 2029)
iPhone 13 series — 0-2 years (last update in 2026, 2027, or 2028)
iPhone 12 series — 0-2 years (last update in 2026, 2027, or 2028)
iPhone 11 series — final update will probably be this year with iOS 27
iPhone SE (2020) — final update will probably be this year with iOS 27
Samsung Galaxy phones
The Samsung Galaxy S26 Plus (Image credit: Future/Rami Tabari)
Samsung offers as much as seven years of support for some of its recent phones, but older and lower-end handsets get fewer updates, so how long your phone will be updated for can be quite variable depending on the model.
Samsung Galaxy S26 series — 7 years (last update in 2033)
Samsung Galaxy A36 — 5 years (last update in 2031)
Samsung Galaxy A26 — 5 years (last update in 2031)
Samsung Galaxy A17 — 5 years (last update in 2031)
Samsung Galaxy A17 — 4 years (last update in 2030)
Samsung Galaxy A55 — 1 year (last update in 2027, security patches until 2029)
Samsung Galaxy A35 — 1 year (last update in 2027, security patches until 2029)
Samsung Galaxy M35 — 1 year (last update in 2027, security patches until 2029)
Samsung Galaxy A25 — 1 year (last update in 2027, security patches until 2028)
Samsung Galaxy A54 — final Android update this year (2026), final security patch in 2028
Samsung Galaxy A34 — final Android update this year (2026), final security patch in 2028
Samsung Galaxy S23 series — final Android update this year (2026), final security patch in 2028
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5 — final Android update this year (2026), final security patch in 2028
Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5 — final Android update this year (2026), final security patch in 2028
Samsung Galaxy M54 — final Android update this year (2026), final security patch in 2028
Google Pixel phones
The Google Pixel 10 (Image credit: Philip Berne / Future)
Google has committed to supporting all handsets from the Pixel 8 onwards for seven years, while phones from the Pixel 6 and Pixel 7 lines get five years of support.
Note that, as a-series models launch later than their mainline siblings, they technically get supported for longer. But depending on when major new Android versions launch, they may not get additional significant updates.
Google Pixel 6 series (excluding 6a) — final update this year (2026)
Motorola phones
The Motorola Edge 70 (Image credit: Future)
Motorola’s update commitments feel quite messy and inconsistent, with some phones getting more or fewer updates than you might expect, but you’ll find an overview of the currently supported handsets below.
Motorola Signature — 7 years (last update in early 2033)
Motorola Edge 70 series — 3 years (last update in 2029, security patches until 2031)
Motorola Edge 60 Neo — 3 years (last update in 2029, security patches until 2031)
The company is giving away a free month of GTA+ if fans pre-order the game on PS5
It says GTA 6 takes full advantage of the PS5’s immersive features "to deliver a deeply engaging single-player experience"
Rockstar Games has teamed up with Sony to offer Grand Theft Auto 6 fans a free month of GTA+ if they pre-order the game on PS5.
In a new PlayStation Blog post, Sony claimed that "thanks to a close partnership" with the studio, GTA 6 "will play best on PS5 by taking advantage of PS5’s immersive features to deliver a deeply engaging single-player experience," following the game's price and pre-order time announcement.
"Since Grand Theft Auto first arrived on the original PlayStation in 1997, the series has defined generations of play," the company said. "We know players are excited for Grand Theft Auto 6, which heads to the state of Leonida — home to the neon-soaked streets of Vice City and beyond, in the biggest, most expansive evolution of the series yet."
It's confirmed that the game will feature DualSense haptic feedback and adaptive triggers, an integrated speaker, and sound effects to enhance the experience, as well as Tempest 3D AudioTech to "surround yourself in the distinct soundscapes of Leonida."
GTA 6 will also leverage the PS5’s ultra-high-speed SSD, which Sony said will enable "near-instant load times."
Pre-orders will begin on June 25 at midnight local time for the Standard and Ultimate Editions, which cost $79.99 and $99.99, respectively.
GTA 6 pre-orders are currently live in New Zealand, and according to the PS Store, an Ultimate Edition Upgrade will be available at some point, likely at launch.
Players who pre-order the Standard or Ultimate Edition before November 20 will also receive the Vintage Vice City Pack and can begin pre-loading the game on November 12, seven days before the game's launch on November 19.
What's more, Sony announced that players who pre-order any edition on PlayStation Store will also instantly receive a redeemable free month of GTA+, a premium subscription for Grand Theft Auto Online.
"Grand Theft Auto 6 marks an exciting new chapter for one of gaming’s most iconic series, and we’re proud to help bring the best experience to players on PS5," Sony said.
"We can’t wait until the game arrives on November 19 and we look forward to celebrating its launch with Rockstar Games and our PlayStation community around the world."
IO research shows 87% of UK cybersecurity managers doubt the credibility of speed‑focused certification programs
Rapid, automated compliance creates a false sense of security, with certifications like ISO 27001 not guaranteeing resilience
Experts stress continuous monitoring and human oversight, as automated recommendations and evidence still need validation and interpretation
Speed-focused compliance programs could help businesses get cybersecurity certifications quicker, but security professionals are skeptical if the speed comes at the expense of actual business resilience.
This is according to new research from resilience specialists IO, which claims that 87% of senior cybersecurity managers in the UK believe the speed at which certification is achieved affects its credibility.
According to the report, compliance initiatives that are either heavily automated or compressed into short timeframes are creating a false sense of security. Certifications like ISO 27001 might help companies win contracts and maintain an image, but researchers are warning that certification alone does not guarantee actual operational resilience.
Gaps in security posture
“Organizations that focus on achieving certification as quickly as possible are at risk of leaving gaps in their security posture,” says Chris Newton-Smith, CEO of IO. “Certification can open doors to new contracts and demonstrate commitment to recognised standards but treating certification as the end goal rather than the outcome of establishing and embedding effective compliance is more often than not at the expense of long-term resilience. Businesses must treat compliance not as a tick-box exercise but an evolving, iterative, and business critical project.”
Polling 251 cybersecurity managers in the UK, IO found that 31% consider continuous controls monitoring as the strongest indicator of compliance resilience. At the same time, a fifth (21%) said certifications could reflect security controls at the time of an audit, but could soon after become obsolete.
IO also stressed the importance of human expertise in these programs. Almost half (45%) of the respondents said human involvement is still essential when evaluating if automated compliance recommendations are still relevant and accurate, and another third (33%) said complex regulations still need human interpretation.
Finally, 32% stressed the importance of human in validating compliance evidence generated by automated systems.
Getting a GTA 6 pre-order locked down is the best thing that any gamer can do right now. After last week's announcement and cover art reveal, we now know that pre-orders start in just a few hours at midnight local time around the world on June 25 — which means some folks in places like New Zealand and Australia can pre-order right now!
In brief, there are two editions. The Standard Edition gets you the main game as a code in a physical box and will cost $79.99, while the Ultimate Edition features an "exclusive collection of premium vehicles, weapons, apparel, and action threaded across all aspects of Jason and Lucia’s story," and will cost $99.99. Pricing details in other regions are yet to be confirmed.
Anybody who pre-orders or buys the game before November 20 will also receive the Vintage Vice City Pack, described as "a collection of items that flash back to when the neon burned brightest."
Now you've got the info, let's get to it. I've got those quick links again first, and then lots more detail about the editions and links to retailers for each below that.
If you're looking for the Ultimate Edition on PS5 in the UK, then head over to Amazon to check for stock or bookmark the retailers below to get those extra fantastic goodies.View Deal
Xbox Series X players looking to get the most premium edition going can head over to Amazon to check stock there with this link or via any of the retailer links below.View Deal
Folks often discuss or ask me personally whether something is worth pre-ordering or not. That usually comes down to people balancing whether to go early or to wait for launch day stock, or even deals at a later date.
However, this is GTA 6 and my advice is as categorical as ever: this will be the most in-demand video game of all time; you absolutely should pre-order if you are willing and able to do so. I'd still say that, despite physical boxes being 'code in a box' affairs and without disks — there will still likely be a finite number of GTA 6 game boxes with retailers so it might genuinely sell out. If you want the most physical preorder for GTA 6, then still go for it, despite the digital game code within, is my advice.
I really, wholeheartedly recommend a GTA 6 pre-order if you can, just to secure your unit and know that it'll be in your hands on day one.
GTA 6 pre-orders — what's in each edition?
With two GTA 6 pre-order editions and options, there are a few extras and differences to be aware of. If you're looking for a quick overview to inform your choice, then we've got you covered.
Starting off simply, if you pre-order the GTA 6 standard edition, you will get the following:
The base game as a digital code in a physical box
Vintage Vice City Pack — "a collection of items that flash back to when the neon burned brightest."
The ability to preload from November 12
The Ultimate Edition gets you a few more digital bonuses on top of what's in the standard edition, though Rockstar's description is a little vague still.
The base game as a digital code in a physical box
Vintage Vice City Pack — "a collection of items that flash back to when the neon burned brightest."
Digital bonuses — "An exclusive collection of premium vehicles, weapons, apparel, and action threaded across all aspects of Jason and Lucia’s story."
The ability to preload from November 12
Live updates
It's finally happening — GTA 6 pre-orders are here
Hello and welcome to our live coverage of GTA 6 pre-orders. It's an incredibly exciting time and I've made it my mission to present you the best information, latest details, and all the best retailer links to pre-order Rockstar's latest and greatest as soon as they go live.
Strap in, it's going to be a heck of a ride!
Pricing information finally arrived
(Image credit: Rockstar Games)
The huge news to come today, just ahead of pre-orders going live at midnight local time, June 25, was the pricing - at least some of it. Rockstar confirmed that the standard edition of the game will cost $79.99 and the ultimate edition of the game will cost $99.99.
What does that mean for other territories? No idea, really — a UK price could be the same numbers but in GBP, but we just don't know yet.
Because Rockstar has opted for a midnight local time launch for pre-orders around the world, we're already seeing folks place their orders and see it on official storefronts.
Fans in New Zealand can currently head over to the PS Store and snag their pre-order! How exciting!
Will you be pre-ordering?
Pre-ordering games is always a bit of debate among fans, but GTA 6 might be the one that transcends all concerns about pre-ordering a game.
Will you be placing a pre-order? Take our poll below, and we'll see how many folks are keen, and how many might be holding back.
Pre-orders in Australia should be live very soon
(Image credit: Rockstar Games)
We'll soon have another country going live with pre-order time arriving for fans in Australia very soon. I've only seen the PS Store and Xbox store live with links or listings so far though - no actual retailers, which I'm curious about.
A collector's POV
I'm a little bit of a gaming gear and games collector — nothing huge by any means, but certainly my most favorite or anticipated things, for sure — and I'm a bit disappointed about the physical editions just being a code in a box. I would have loved to have placed a pre-order knowing I was getting a full physical edition with box, disk, and anything else.
A saving grace may be that there's some cool art or a map, or something else inside the boxes alongside the code — but equally, Rockstar would surely have detailed those bits in order to paint a full picture and sell the editions. Anyway, I live in hope...
Australian pre-orders are live at the PlayStation and Xbox stores!
As expected, Australians can now get in on the GTA 6 pre-order action by placing digital pre-orders on the game on either of the major console storefronts right now!
JB HiFI in Australia and New Zealand are the best retailer to go live with listings as far as I can tell, and gives us a first (predictable) look at how shops and online retailers will be selling the game!
The only thing really of note in the description though is that "A disc will not be included in the box."
Don't make a big mistake when choosing editions
(Image credit: Rockstar Games)
Gaming Editor Dashiell Wood has some timely advice for those choosing which edition to buy: "Don't bank on Rockstar Games offering an upgrade to the Ultimate Edition if you only buy the standard version. I was caught out back when I bought the standard edition of Red Dead Redemption 2 and soon discovered that I wouldn't be able to access that game's Ultimate Edition goodies unless I bought a whole new copy.
Choose your edition of GTA 6 carefully. If you think you want any of the content from the Ultimate Edition, then it's the one to go for. An extra $20 now could save you from feeling like you missed out in future. I'm not making the same mistake twice."
Hey everyone! Gaming Editor Dash here, signing on to take over the coverage as Rob logs off for the day. I'll be with you for the next few hours tracking the latest GTA 6 pre-order news.
The Ultimate Edition might not be physical
(Image credit: Rockstar Games)
There's an interesting omission with the listings currently live in Australia. You can pick up the game for either PS5 or Xbox Series X, but only the standard edition.
There doesn't seem to be a physical box with the Ultimate Edition version up right now, which makes me think that we might not actually get one.
I'll keep searching and let you know if one appears...
On the subject of that Ultimate Edition, an upgrade has actually been spotted in the New Zealand PlayStation Store. This suggests that players will be able to pay to upgrade their version of the Standard Edition game to the Ultimate Edition somewhere down the line.
This is definitely a very consumer-friendly move, and removes some of the pressure to lock in one edition early that I was talking about earlier.
Still, there's no word on how much the upgrade will cost and I imagine buying the Ultimate Edition upfront will be the cheaper option.
What actually is GTA+?
Digital GTA 6 pre-orders come with a free month of GTA+, but what does that actually mean?
GTA+ is Rockstar's subscription service, mainly geared towards GTA Online players. It gives you a wealth of in-game bonuses, like discounts on property, loads of free vehicles, free clothing, and regular in-game currency injections.
It even comes with its own library of games, with a rotating selection of titles that you can play at no extra cost. This currently includes GTA 5 and GTA Online for PC, PS5, and Xbox Series consoles in addition to the likes Red Dead Redemption and Grand Theft Auto: The Trilogy – The Definitive Edition.
If you want to make the best use of your month, I would recommend using it to play Vice City so you can get to grips with the Florida-inspired setting before GTA 6 arrives.
I've just heard that Rob is back to take the reigns once again! See you all soon for more GTA 6 pre-order madness.
I'm back!
I have indeed returned! How's everyone doing?
Got itchy trigger fingers?
Dash and I were just talking about whether we would pre-order a physical copy ourselves, but neither of us are sure now due to the code in a box situation....
Still, I've got time to mull it over before UK pre-orders go live in less than five hours.
Our coverage of GTA 6 is also on TikTok, by the way
We'll be continuing our GTA 6 pre-order coverage and talking more about the game in the build-up to its release on the platform, too, by the way, so if video content is your bag and you like what we do, consider giving us a follow there!
If you’ve had to struggle through a heatwave like the one cooking the UK right now (where I’m based), then you know that you’ll do anything to try to stay cool: bumping up the AC if you have it, or turning on as many fans as you can find, and drinking gallons of water.
I’m currently chilling in my DXRacer Martian Pro as it pulls cool air through my shorts thanks to in-built ventilation fans. It’s not like sitting on a block of ice — and I still have a Dyson Cool CF1 desk fan blasting at my face — but the chair’s cooling has been a noticeable improvement compared to a desk fan-only setup.
I’m much less sweaty, and I don’t feel bothered by the heat baking my upper-floor flat — the only trouble is, it makes the times I need to get up and out of my seat a little less bearable by comparison.
Now, I have some bad news: the Martian Pro I ride is out of stock in the US and UK right now — but there’s a solid alternative that we’ve tested, and which is not only in stock, but on sale at Amazon thanks to Prime Day deals.
Last year during the UK’s 2025 summer heatwave we took the AutoFull M6 Ultra for a spin, and our reviewer Christian Guyton can confirm that the cooling fans made a noticeable difference after sitting in the chair for a while — which matches my DX Racer experience.
What’s extra special about these ventilated chairs is that they’re perfect right now in the sweltering heat, but they'll also keep you cosy in the winter thanks to in-built heaters. Much like their cooling fans, the seat warmers are again very effective at keeping your body comfortable.
And these seats aren’t just electronic gimmicks. You’ll find a full suite of comfort features like 4D armrests, neck and lumbar support, and your usual recline and height options.
The only thing that might be a slight let-down is the massaging which the chairs can provide. It can be fun and relaxing during a stressful gaming session or day at work, but it isn’t super rigorous.
That said, I love my cooling gaming chair, and I’m considering picking up a second for my partner having looked at these deals; the AutoFull M6 Ultra 2.0 looks like a solid option in the UK, though I might see if I can stretch to the Ultra+.
Music lovers listen up, Amazon Prime Day is stacked with offers on some of our favorite audio brands, and I've just spotted a deal on our best budget turntable, making it even more affordable — what more could you ask for?
I started my vinyl record collection in my teens, but my first mistake was not doing my research beforehand, and I purchased one of those Crosley-style players that do nothing but wreck your albums. If I were to speak to my 17-year-old self again, I'd tell him to look into the Sony PS-LX5BT turntable instead.
Selecting the right vinyl player for your needs takes time. At the end of the day, they're an investment piece, so you don't want to regret your choice, but the Sony PS-LX5BT is a solid entry-level option. Our audio editor Becky Scarrott has also pieced together a collection of some of our favorite turntables — which would make great graduation gifts .
Today's best Sony PS-LX310BT deal
Entry-level turntables sub-$400 with solid audio are difficult to come by, but not when it's Prime Day. Amazon's $100 price drop takes one of our favorite turntables to its lowest ever price, but this deal won't be here for much longer. View Deal
Similarly in the UK, this is the lowest price we've seen for the Sony PS-LX5BT, and it won't get much better than this as long as Prime Day goes on. Though you may be tempted to get your first turntable for an even cheaper price, your vinyls won't thank you in the long run. View Deal
My JAM Audio Bluetooth turntable gave out on me a while back, and now I've become that annoying friend that's constantly begging to use other people's vinyl player to spin my favorite LPs. Well, thank goodness for Prime Day is all I can say.
As far as entry-level turntables go, the Sony PS-LX5BT turntable is simple and uncomplicated, yet doesn't compromise sound quality. If anything, its sonic characteristics are quite upfront.
It also doesn't fall flat on the features front. You're going to get plenty of connectivity options including stereo RCA connections for hooking the turntable up to speakers or an amplifier, as well as Bluetooth if you refer to opt for wireless connection. The only small setback is that it doesn't come with an adjustable counterweight, so you get what what you're given, but that's expected for a beginner-friendly record player.
Features aside, there's no denying that it's incredibly sleek in its design, right? And the dust shield is an added bonus, adding an extra layer of protection to your vinyl records as you spin them. I'd buy it on the design front alone.
Huntress report highlights “EvilTokens” PhaaS scaling phishing attacks 1,380% in early 2026 compared to last year
AI integration enables per‑victim personalization at scale, bypassing MFA, with subscription tiers from $600 to $1,500
Service sold openly on Telegram, showing how PhaaS now operates like a startup with cheap, powerful attack capabilities
Cybercriminals offering phishing-as-a-service (PhaaS) are increasingly operating like a tech startup, and a good one, at that. They are also using Artificial Intelligence (AI), which helped them scale significantly. This is according to a new report from cybersecurity researchers Huntress, called “EvilTokens and the Rise of AI-Powered Phishing”.
In the report, Huntress claims that this particular PhaaS operation, called EvilTokens, was used to run 1,380% more phishing attacks in early 2026 compared to the same period last year.
“We’re seeing a clear maturation of the phishing-as-a-service (PhaaS) market as threat actors increasingly integrate AI workflows into their product offerings,” the report reads. “The result is directly observable in our telemetry: a 1,380% increase in device code phishing attacks detected between July–December 2025 and January–April 2026, with over 50% of those incidents linked to two major waves of correlated incidents.”
A cheap service
“Furthermore, across hundreds of incidents associated with EvilTokens, no two phishing lures were identical. This level of per-victim personalization was previously limited to targeted, manually crafted campaigns. Now, it’s achievable at scale by any threat actor at the price of a subscription service”
So, AI is not only used to scale the operation, but it is also used for personalization at an unprecedented level. At the same time, the service is relatively cheap to use: it is being sold on Telegram for as little as $600.
If this sounds like a lot, keep in mind that a single successful phishing attack is enough to steal data worth hundreds of thousands on the black market, or even millions - in ransom negotiations.
EvilTokens’ service is tiered, too. The cheapest package costs $600, while two more expensive ones cost $1,000 and $1,500, respectively. For criminals, it is likely worth the investment, since this PhaaS is capable of bypassing multi-factor authentication, as well.
It sounds bizarre saying that I wish I could go back in time and bully my past self into spending more money, but that's exactly what I would do when it comes to Red Dead Redemption 2.
I first bought the cowboy adventure game on sale back in 2020. I can't remember the exact price, but it was something like 30 bucks for the standard version, and about ten more if I wanted the Ultimate Edition instead.
I took a look at what the more premium version offered — an exclusive mission, a cool horse, some new clothing, and some in-game progression boosts, plus a load of content for Red Dead Online — and decided that it wasn't for me. After all, I wasn't entirely sure that I would even enjoy the game or want to explore its multiplayer component.
The problem is that I did genuinely love it, and soon found myself wanting all the extra goodies. The problem? Rockstar offered no way to upgrade between editions. There were no little add-ons that let you pick up each item individually, like you can with most other games.
I was trapped with my standard version, and if I wanted to experience that Ultimate Edition content I would have to buy the entire game again. Obviously, I wasn't going to do that — leaving me bitter and feeling like I missed out.
Learn form my mistake
(Image credit: Rockstar Games)
With the Grand Theft Auto 6 price and editions officially confirmed, I'm urging everyone not to make the same mistake. Like Red Dead Redemption 2, GTA 6 will be available as either a standard edition or Ultimate Edition, with the latter unlocking loads of exclusive content.
It sounds even more significant than what you got with the comparable edition of Red Dead Redemption 2, and includes new vehicles, weapon skins, outfits, and even access to some exclusive locations, such as a beachside garage.
To be clear, Rockstar has not officially confirmed whether it will offer the option to upgrade to the pricier edition down the line. But, after my Red Dead Redemption 2 experience, I wouldn't take the risk.
At $99.99 (UK and Australian pricing has yet to be confirmed), the Ultimate Edition isn't cheap. It's only $20 more than the standard version, though, which goes for $79.99, and that 20 bucks could very well save you from feeling like you missed out in a year's time.
Bear this in mind when Grand Theft Auto 6 pre-orders begin at midnight on June 25 (local time) ahead of the game's launch on November 19 for Xbox Series X and Series S and PlayStation 5.
With protagonist Fox McCloud appearing in a surprise cameo in the recent Super Mario Galaxy Movie, it’s clear that Nintendo wants to bring its niche on-rail space shooter series to a wider audience. To that end, this new Star Fox makes a lot of sense. It’s a remake of the 1997 title Star Fox 64, which is beloved by fans and a good starting point if you’ve never played one of the games before.
Review info
Platform reviewed: Nintendo Switch 2 Available on: Nintendo Switch 2 Release date: June 25, 2026
The problem for me is that this is far from the first time that Nintendo has brought Star Fox 64 back. I grew up with the Nintendo 3DS, and experienced it as Star Fox 64 3D. This was followed by some hands-on time with the Wii U reimagining Star Fox Zero,and then finally a playthrough of the original release when it came to Nintendo Switch via Nintendo Switch Online.
Every single mainline Star Fox game that’s come out since I was about eight years old has been a version of Star Fox 64, and now, as an adult, I’m getting yet another one in Star Fox for Nintendo Switch 2.
I really wish the gaming giant had been a little bolder with this release, adding even just a smidge of new gameplay to freshen up the old campaign. Still, Star Fox 64 is a cult classic for a reason, and thanks to its strong base, this remake is still plenty of fun to play through for what is, hopefully, one last time
Into the Lylat Wars
(Image credit: Nintendo)
The premise is simple, if a little unconventional. You’re a dashing fox in a universe populated by anthropomorphic animals where civilization has managed to crack space colonization despite an apparent lack of opposable thumbs.
Rather than rooting through sci-fi bins, you’re the leader of a mercenary squad (staffed by you, the bird-like Falco, the lagomorphic Peppy, and slimy Slippy toad) that lends its services to the highest bidder — in this case an intergalactic army that’s waging war against the evil scientist dictator Andross.
Fully voiced and animated cutscenes to convey all this information are one of this remake’s biggest new additions, and they feel like a natural inclusion. They’re not super long or expansive by any means, but all flow well and are decently acted throughout even if there are a few moments where the animation can look a bit cheap.
They provide some much-needed downtime in between each of the levels, which are hectic, high-score challenges that see you steering your ship, the Arwing, through intense battles. The action unfurls in a largely on-rails format, but that doesn't mean that this isn’t a degree of strategy to it.
(Image credit: Nintendo)
You can swerve all across the screen, hitting barrel rolls to deflect incoming fire and blasting your laser canons. Your craft very much exists in a 3D space, so enemies often come up behind you, requiring evasive maneuvers like somersaults or hitting the brakes.
There's a boost too, which, deployed at the right time, can see you zooming under falling debris or through closing gaps — often picking up a power-up or two in the process. It’s all remarkably smooth to control, and sections where you pilot other vehicles keep the stages feeling fresh.
Each campaign is extremely short, taking just over an hour to complete, and has you working your way through a map of the galaxy littered with 16 unique planets.
Best bit
(Image credit: Nintendo)
The challenge mode lets you replay all of the levels from the campaign but with some new tricky objectives. These reward you with unlocks like profile badges and lore to read, and I can already see it being a huge hit with completionists.
You can’t visit all of them in one playthrough, which, alongside the two main story paths, gives you plenty of reasons to replay it at least a couple of times. That said even when you bear that in mind, the experience is still pretty fleeting and doesn’t feel befitting of the $49.99 / £41.99 / AU$84.95 digital (or $59.99 / £44.99 / AU$99.95 physical) asking price.
This is especially true if you’ve played all the other versions of Star Fox 64, as you’re basically just paying for a new, admittedly quite pretty, coat of paint.
There is thankfully a new battle mode to try out, and it’s pretty good on the whole. It’s in an online 4v4 player versus player (PvP) format, with one team playing as the Star Fox squad and the other cast as their rivals Star Wolf. Each of the three maps has its own associated game mode, ranging from simple control point capture to fighting to drag limited space cargo back to base.
I’ve had a great time with it so far, though I can imagine that online populations will quickly dwindle given the small map pool. Hopefully a post-launch update will add some more.
Should I play Star Fox?
Play it if...
You’ve never tried Star Fox 64 If you’ve never experienced Star Fox 64 before, then Star Fox is the best version that’s readily available right now. The updated graphics are pleasant, and it feels fantastic to control.
You find it on sale My main issue with Star Fox is its high asking price. If you can find it heavily discounted, then it’s well worth picking up.
Don't play it if...
You’re sick of the Nintendo 64 game If you’ve played the previous Star Fox 64 remakes, then I would recommend skipping Star Fox. It looks pleasant, sure, but it really doesn't add much new beyond its cutscenes.
Accessibility features
As with most first-party Nintendo releases, the accessibility features here are thin. Subtitles are used throughout the game, though their appearance cannot be customized. You can invert the axis of the control scheme and disable features like controller rumble, but that’s basically it.
How I reviewed Star Fox
I played Star Fox on Nintendo Switch 2 for roughly eight hours, experiencing all of its major campaign routes, unlocking every planet, and trying out challenge mode.
I also dived into its multiplayer offering, using my earlier hands-on experience with other players when trying it at Nintendo HQ and testing matches against bots. I mainly played the game in handheld mode using the Joy-Con 2 controllers, though I did briefly test it in docked mode on a 4K Samsung TV to ensure the performance and Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller support is up to scratch.
ClearVPN now has a dedicated app for Apple TV and Android TV devices
Users can log in via a quick QR code scan or smartphone link
The apps include a dedicated Streaming section and Optimal Location tools
Finding the best VPN to secure your online life is increasingly important, but installing it on your living room television hasn't always been a seamless experience. Fortunately, MacPaw is looking to change that with the launch of its "privacy-first" ClearVPN service on Apple TV and Android TV.
With smart TV adoption recently surpassing 900 million units worldwide, our living room watching habits are generating more data than ever. By bringing its software directly to the biggest screens in the home, MacPaw hopes to add a vital extra layer of privacy to users' everyday viewing activities, while simultaneously granting them secure access to global content.
"We built ClearVPN on one belief: privacy should be effortless," said Tetiana Shokina, Product Manager at MacPaw. "Bringing it to Apple TV and Android TV wasn't a feature request; it was the obvious next step. If simplicity is our promise, it has to work on every screen, including the biggest one."
How to use ClearVPN's smart TV apps
(Image credit: MacPaw)
The biggest hurdle with smart TV applications is usually the login process. Nobody enjoys painstakingly typing out long email addresses and complex passwords using a directional TV remote. To solve this, ClearVPN has implemented two simple sign-in methods that entirely bypass the television screen.
Once downloaded, the TV app will display a QR codethat users can scan with their smartphone. This instantly opens a pairing page on the phone to authenticate the login, readying the TV app for use.
Alternatively, the app generates a short URL and an activation code that can be typed into any phone, tablet, or computer.
Once inside, ClearVPN's signature intuitive interface keeps technical decisions to an absolute minimum.
An 'Optimal Location' feature automatically connects you to the best available server, meaning there's no need to manually search through endless country lists.
For entertainment fans, a 'Dedicated Streaming' section makes it even easier, connecting users directly to the optimal server for specific streaming platforms so you can start watching privately within seconds.
A quick overview of ClearVPN
If you aren't familiar with ClearVPN, the service was originally launched in 2020 by Kyiv-based MacPaw, a global technology company best known for its signature product, CleanMyMac.
From its inception, the goal was to design an application for everyone, not just the tech-savvy, removing the complex settings that often make cybersecurity software feel intimidating.
In 2024, ClearVPN went through a major redesign as the provider launched improved apps. The service, however, has maintained its core mission: to ensure people's online lives receive the exact same protection as their offline ones.
ClearVPN is powered by modern protocols designed to deliver fast, stable connections, ensuring your streams won't be interrupted by constant buffering. A single subscription protects up to six devices simultaneously, creating a secure digital ecosystem.
New smart TV apps are available now for all ClearVPN users globally. You will need a device running at least Android TV 6+ or tvOS 18+ to install the new applications.
If you want to protect your other hardware, ClearVPN is also available to download on macOS, iOS, iPadOS, Windows, Android, compatible routers, and as a Google Chrome extension.
A Google Home Speaker is revealed in an early unboxing
The sound quality and app interface are reportedly impressive
However, the power cable can't be removed from the device
The brand new Google Home Speaker is about to finally go on sale, but an early unboxing video posted online reveals a design decision made by Google that a lot of users are likely to be less than pleased about: the power cable can't be removed.
You can check out the unboxing over on Reddit (via Android Authority), which shows off the aesthetics of the device that we've known about since the first official reveal last October — as well as giving us the revelation about the power cable.
The Nest Mini device that the Google Home Speaker is more or less replacing does have a removable USB-C power cable, which means when it's not in use, you can tidy it away more easily. On the other hand, the Nest Audio — another speaker now discontinued since the new model arrived — has a fixed power cable.
It seems that a removable power cable is something that quite a few smart speaker owners care about. "This is a nightmare for repairability, for which I am a massive proponent," writes the original unboxer.
Some positives, one negative
As per the information supplied in the video, the Google Home Speaker comes with a USB-C cable that's around 5 feet (1.52 meters) in length that can't be unplugged. There's a 30W power brick on the other end that can be removed.
On the plus side, our unboxer reports that the sound quality from the speaker is good, that the app component has a "cool" interface, and that setting up the device is straightforward — apparently it takes less than 10 minutes.
As with the Nest Mini, there are apparently touch controls available on top of the speaker, as well as hidden lights to report status information and volume levels. On the whole the first impressions from this user are positive ones.
It's just the power cable situation that's drawing criticism: "the non-removable cord killed it for me" writes one poster (who is apparently worried about cats playing with the cord), while the original poster says they're "extremely disappointed in the engineers". Another comment takes a dim view too: "The reason is always money."
Nespresso machines make brewing consistently tasty coffee easy, without any of the mess of using fresh coffee grounds — and they're going cheap for Amazon Prime Day. As TechRadar's resident coffee expert and trained barista, I've rounded up a collection of my five favorite Nespresso machines — all of which happen to be on sale for Prime Day in both the US and the UK.
There's something here for every coffee-lover, whether you want a super-simple machine that makes consistently tasty coffee and will fit into the tiniest kitchen, or a premium coffee maker that can whip up a latte at the press of a button. All of these Nespresso machines have been tested and recommended by our team of reviewers, so you can be confident they'll all deliver great results.
1. Ninja Prestige DualBrew System
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Can't decide between espresso and drip coffee in the morning? The Ninja Prestige DualBrew System (also known as the Espresso & Coffee Maker Barista System) does both. This all-in-one caffeine station makes delicious espresso using Nespresso Original-style capsules (I tested it with some I bought from a local coffee roaster), which you can brew in three different sizes, with a height-adjustable drip tray so you can use your favorite cups with no splashing. Want to turn your shot into a cappuccino or latte? Use the milk frother on the back of the machine.
On the left-hand side of the DualBrew System you have a feature-packed drip coffee maker, with features including a timer (so you can prepare everything before bed and wake to freshly-brewed coffee in the morning), a drip-stop valve, and a smart hotplate that keeps your coffee hot without scalding it. It's one of the best drip coffee makers I've tested — and it even makes cold-brew.
This is the cheapest this two-in-one coffee maker has been in 2026, and a great buy for Prime Day if you love both drip and espresso, and don't have space in your kitchen for two machines.View Deal
The UK deal on the DualBrew System is even better; this is the cheapest it's ever been by a long shot. I really don't need another coffee maker at home, but with 32% off, even I'm tempted.View Deal
2. Nespresso Lattissima One
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Most Nespresso machines just make espresso, but the Lattissima One (made by De'Longhi) also includes an automatic milk frother for lattes, cappuccinos and macchiatos at the tap of a button. It's ideal if you're the only coffee-lover in your household and want a personal machine for preparing single servings.
Like the Ninja Prestige DualBrew System above, it takes Nespresso Original capsules, which means you have a huge choice of drinks from big brands and indie roasters alike. After testing your tap water with the litmus strip provided and setting the hardness on the machine, just drop in a pod and use the three buttons to choose your preferred size and type of drink.
Our reviewer Emily Peck was surprised by how quietly the Lattissima One went about its work, and found the resulting coffee delicious. She had to consult the manual to check what each button does (they perform multiple functions) but once she had that down, she was making great coffees with ease.
The Lattissima One always gets some good discounts during sales events, and Prime Day 2026 is no exception. This is Amazon's best price this year, and the deal applies to both the black and white models.View Deal
The Lattissima One is even cheaper in the UK for Prime Day, and you'll get the biggest saving if you opt for this attractive pastel green version. It comes with a starter set of Nespresso capsules too.View Deal
The Nanopresso is an ingenious little coffee maker that relies on elbow grease rather than an electric pump to extract your espresso. The standard version works with ground coffee only, but it's even more convenient if you opt for the version with an adapter for Nespresso Original capsules. After all, who wants to carry loose coffee grounds around when they're exploring the great outdoors?
Our tester noted that it feels durable and rugged (ideal for throwing in a backpack), and although you'll need to familiarize yourself with the various unusual-looking components before taking it out for the first time, you'll soon be able to assemble it and start brewing in moments.
"All you need is access to hot water and some kind of stable surface to set everything up," said our tester, who was seriously impressed by the resulting espresso. "The Nanopresso actually had us asking why coffee had become so complicated, when all you really need for a wake-up call is a small and mighty piece of kit like this," she concluded. Why indeed?
Amazon has knocked the Nanopresso down to its lowest-ever price for Prime Day, paired with a Nespresso Original adapter so you can use it with either ground coffee or pods as the fancy takes you.View Deal
There's also a 20% discount on the same portable coffee-making setup in the UK. Like the US deal, this is a record-breaking price cut, so if you're looking for an espresso maker for summer camping expeditions, this could be the one.View Deal
4. Nespresso Vertuo Pop
FutureFutureFutureFuture / Jennifer OksienFuture / Jennifer Oksien
The Nespresso Vertuo Pop is made by Breville (Sage in the UK), so you can be confident that it's well-made and durable, despite its budget price tag. This mini Nespresso machine is always an affordable option, and it's even cheaper in this week's Amazon Prime Day sale. It takes dome-shaped Nespresso Vertuo capsules, which include a wide variety of regular and flavored coffees, including special editions like Coconut and Vanilla (designed to be made over ice) and Pistachio Vanilla.
Our tester Jennifer Oksien called it "a fabulous entry-level coffee maker", and owning one myself, I'm inclined to agree. It heats up in about a minute (just power it on and wait until the light on top stops blinking), after which you can simply slide in the pod, press down the lid, and hit the brew button. There are no options to choose between different drink sizes because Vertuo pods do that for you — the machine detects which one you're using and uses the appropriate amount of water without you doing a thing.
The Vertuo Pop+ has a larger water tank than the classic Pop, so you can make drinks for two before it needs refilling. This pistachio green version is usually more expensive than other colors, but it's down to a record-low price this Prime Day.View Deal
Nespresso machines don't get cheaper than the original Pop, and the Coconut White version has received a major Prime Day price cut. It's not quite a record low (it was a couple of pounds less back in 2023) but it's still a huge saving.View Deal
5. Nespresso Vertuo Next
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The Nespresso Vertuo Next is a step up from the Pop, and is noticeably taller, with a larger water tank, more space for your cup, and a bigger bin for used capsules. It's a piece of cake to use as well, and our tester Sophie Bird deemed it the simplest coffee maker she'd ever used — and considering how many coffee machines we test here at TechRadar, that's saying something. She timed the whole brewing process from start to sip, and found it took just 100 seconds, making this an excellent option if you're pressed for time in the morning.
She found the Vertuo Next virtually mess-free as well, noting that there was no splashing when the machine was dispensing coffee — largely thanks to the height-adjustable drip tray. The Vertuo Next is taller than the Pop above, so you can comfortably use larger cups (such as your favorite takeaway cup), and has a bigger water tank for larger brews.
$80 off a top-notch Nespresso machine? Don't mind if I do! This deal applies to the Vertuo Next in stylish gray or navy blue. It dropped to $90 yesterday though, so it might be worth holding out until Thursday to see if it goes back down again.View Deal
The US deal is great, but coffee aficionados in the UK are even luckier, with the Vertuo Next selling for less than half price this Prime Day. It's almost as cheap as the Vertuo Pop, so take a minute to consider which will work best for you.View Deal
While you might think this week is all about Amazon Prime Day, Best Buy has launched a rival 'Tech Fest Sale,' with discounts from top brands like Fitbit. The retailer is slashing prices on its best-selling models, with prices starting at just $79.99.
I've listed the top 5 Fitbit deals from Best Buy below, which include record-low prices on its top-rated activity trackers and smartwatches. Fitbit watches are packed with insightful health and fitness features, including heart rate monitoring and the ability to track exercise, sleep, and stress.
Keep in mind that, unlike Amazon Prime Day, Best Buy's Tech Fest Sale doesn't require a membership to shop its deals. These are limited-time offers, and Best Buy's sale ends on Sunday at Midnight.
The best Fitbit deals at Best Buy
Today's cheapest Fitbit deal is the ultra-slim Fitbit Inspire 3 on sale for $79.95 - just $10 more than the record-low price. Made for everyday wear, the Inspire 3 offers 24/7 heart rate monitoring and tracks sleep, workouts, stress, and more.View Deal
Not only is the Fitbit Charge 6 one of our favorite fitness trackers, but it's also one of the best Fitbits overall. The Charge 6 features a sleek design and offers fitness basics, with 41 exercise modes and up to 7 days of battery life. Today's rival Prime Day deal from Best Buy is a record-low price.View Deal
The feature-packed Fitbit Versa 4 is down to $149.95 at Best Buy's Tech Fest sale. The top-rated smartwatch features a built-in GPS for tracking runs, walks, and bike rides. Plus, it provides a daily readiness score to help you determine whether your body is ready for a workout or recovery, based on helpful insights.View Deal
You can snag a $50 discount on the Fitbit Sense 2, bringing the price down to $199.95. The Sense 2 is one of Fitbit's most advanced health and fitness smartwatches, capable of tracking sleep and stress and featuring smartphone notifications, contactless payments, and GPS.View Deal
While Google's newest Fitbit, the Fitbit Air, isn't on sale, it's already at an affordable starting price of $99.99. The screenless, lightweight Fitbit Air offers standard health and fitness tracking features and delivers an impressive week's worth of battery life.View Deal
Both versions are available physically and digitally; however, the studio has said that the physical editions won't feature a disc as expected, but rather a digital download code in the box.
One explanation for this could be is that Rockstar is trying to minimize the potential for leaks as much as possible, even if that means physical copies won't come with a disc.
Some fans who were eager to get their hands on a physical edition of the most anticipated game of all time are upset, to say the least.
"Obviously I’m going to get this game but 13 years of waiting & this is all physical editions are getting? A f****** code in a box? For the biggest game to ever launch & that’s all the effort you’re putting in for physical? So damn disappointed man," one said.
A user on Reddit wrote, "Such a bummer as a physical collector. Hopefully they start printing disks after release but that’s probably copium on my part".
"This is beyond ridiculous. So everybody has to pay the insane digital price without any discounts whatsoever. Such a lame and greedy move," another added.
There are some who are also considering skipping the day one purchase in hopes of a disc being produced later down the line, but again, there's still the risk of spoilers. For now, it looks like all players will own a digital license for the game instead.
GTA 6 launches on November 19 for PS5, Xbox Series X and Series S at $79.99 for the Standard Edition and $99.99 for the Ultimate Edition.
Pre-loads will begin seven days in advance, on November 12.
Sony has announced a new camera sensor designed for phones
It has an unusual pixel structure that improves its resolution
The company highlights it as being a particularly good fit for telephoto cameras
Telephoto cameras are often a weak link in smartphone camera arrays. Many phones don’t offer them at all, and those that do often use smaller sensors or fewer megapixels than their wide and ultra-wide counterparts. But a new Sony sensor could deliver a big telephoto upgrade if the best camera phones incorporate it.
The Sony LYTIA 610 is the industry’s first mass-produced sensor to have an ‘RB2×2 On Chip Lens (OCL) pixel structure.’ We won’t get too weighed down in technical details, but the upshot is that, according to Sony, this design achieves both “improved resolution and excellent autofocusing” at the same time.
There’s a greater than 20% improvement in spatial resolution (meaning its ability to resolve fine details) compared to conventional Sony sensors with the same pixel size, and the company specifically highlights telephoto cameras as benefiting from all this.
(Image credit: Sony)
Plus, this sensor also offers an improved readout speed, allowing for 4K 120fps video recording and 4K 60fps HDR recording. So it could prove beneficial for videos as well as photos.
Reducing the performance gap
Sony also notes that this sensor “reduces the performance gap with the large sensors used on main cameras and suppresses variations in image quality across multi-lens camera systems, enabling a more uniform shooting experience.” So, in other words, if this is used for telephoto cameras, then you’re less likely to get noticeably inferior shots than when taking wide or ultra-wide photos.
This is all achieved without increasing the sensor or pixel size from Sony’s more conventionally designed LYTIA 601 sensor, which some phones currently use for their telephoto cameras. Potentially, then, this new sensor could deliver improved results without much of a price hike or a larger space requirement.
Of course, it remains to be seen which, if any, phones will actually use this sensor, but aside from Sony’s own Xperia handsets, you’ll also find Sony cameras in at least certain phones by Google, Xiaomi, and even Apple, among other brands. So there are any number of future handsets that could potentially get a telephoto boost from this sensor.
Amazon Prime Day is one of the best events for deals on home cooking appliances, including air fryers, which I turn to every time I lack the time or patience to use the oven.
If you love your air fryer just as much as I love mine, but think you could be getting more out of it, some of our highest-rated air fryers from our favorite brands are some of the star appliances in Amazon's monster sale — with the king of dual basket air fryers, Ninja, being one of them.
Today's best dual basket air fryer deals in the US
The Ninja Crispi's main selling point is that its glass bases double as food containers, making them perfect for meal prep. The larger one is 3.8L, providing enough space to feed up to six people while also allowing simultaneous cooking of a whole 1.2kg chicken and vegetables. This Prime Day deal is $20 shy of the record-low price we saw during Black Friday.
Though it looks more like a mini oven than your standard air fryer, this has seven functions that cover every base when it comes to cooking. Investing in an air fryer oven can help you cut back on the number of small appliances you have taking up countertop space.
For just under half price, you're getting an air fryer that's dependable as well as affordable. Right now, it's much better value than it was during last year's Prime Day and Black Friday events, and I'm confident you'll be getting your money's worth.
An air fryer allows you to enjoy your favorite fried foods with less oil, and this Ninja XL model is perfect for families. The 6.5-quart capacity drawer is enough to make meals for the whole family, and preset functions make air frying, roasting, reheating, and dehydrating easy.View Deal
Today's best dual basket air fryer deals in the UK
The Ninja Foodi Max is the ultimate air fryer for many and it's now down to a great low price at Amazon. It offers six different functions, including Max Crisp, air frying, roasting, baking, reheating, and dehydrating. With two baskets, you get two independent cooking zones with the option to have them sync or match up, depending on your needs. Its extra large capacity is perfect for family cooking or batch cooking as it gives you plenty of room for a 2kg chicken or 1.4kg of fries in each compartment.
Record-low price: This dual-basket fryer to yo-yo in price, but this is the first time we've seen it drop below £100 since Black Friday last year. For a dual basket model and 13 different cooking methods, how can you go wrong?View Deal
Ninja's recent space-saving air fryer is just £5 more than its lowest-ever price, which is still a bit of a steal for the popular and well-rated appliance. We loved it at TechRadar, awarding it full marks in our review and even putting it in our best air fryer buying guide. Well-built and great-looking on any countertop, it offers five cooking levels across two drawers and two racks, while the 9.5L capacity is ideal for medium to big families.
The Instant Pot Vortex's 12L cooking basket makes cooking for larger parties and families, packing eight cooking settings including grill, roast, and dehydrate. Given its large cooking space, you can add a divider to cook two different foods at once. View Deal
Here's a best-ever discount on Ninja's portable air fryer — and a great Prime Day deal. This bundle includes the PowerPod lid, plus two resealable glass containers to carry your dishes until you're ready to cook. According to our testing, it cooks exceptionally quickly, is easy to use and a breeze to clean, making this one of the best air fryer deals I've seen this year.
Apple avoids setting off your iPhone when its execs say “Hey Siri” at events
One enterprising engineer decided to find out why
By analyzing the keynote’s audio, they solved an intriguing mystery
Siri has just been given the brain transplant it's needed for years, but it's always been good at detecting the words "Hey Siri" — so much so that accidental summonings have been a common problem. But an audio engineer has just explained how Apple cleverly avoided Siri popping up on your phone during its recent WWDC 2026 keynote.
As revealed by Techexplain on Substack, it all comes down to the audio frequencies embedded in Apple’s keynote video. Once Apple’s audio engineers made a few subtle tweaks, the company’s presenters could say “Hey Siri” as much as they liked without risking millions of phones going off around the world.
To find out what was going on, Techexplain downloaded the audio and video from the WWDC event. They fed that into a spectrogram analyzer, which is an app that can visualize audio frequencies as colored graphs and bands. When the WWDC video was examined, it revealed that a few frequency bands in the 3kHz to 6kHz range had been removed from the audio.
And this is the key to the video not invoking Siri. Without those four frequency bands, the Siri assistant lurking on your device did not hear the phrase “Hey Siri” — even though Apple’s presenters said it repeatedly throughout the show.
Wait, how exactly does this work?
(Image credit: Apple)
Apple’s solution might sound odd. After all, doesn’t Siri listen out for the trigger words being spoken? If those words were present in Apple’s video, shouldn’t Siri have been activated?
Well, not quite. Your iPhone contains an “always-on processor” chip whose job is to constantly sample background audio, which is then fed into a neural network. The audio is converted into a spectrogram and the neural network analyzes it to look for a specific frequency pattern — in this case, the sibilant sound that occurs when you say “Siri.” And yep, you guessed it, those sibilant sounds mostly exist in the 3kHz to 6kHz range.
In other words, what Siri is actually listening out for is a frequency rather than the words being spoken. It means that if Apple’s engineers remove the 3kHz to 6kHz bands from the WWDC keynote, Siri won’t “hear” its name being spoken — even if that’s exactly what the presenters are doing.
It’s a clever trick that helps ensure Apple’s presenters can speak naturally without the need to avoid saying “Siri.” At the same time, it avoids setting off millions of iPhones and annoying their owners when “Hey Siri” is uttered. It’s an ingenious solution that solves a thorny problem in a satisfyingly elegant way — and we wouldn’t expect anything less from Apple.
Meta's end-to-end ads platform takes care of creation, testing and launching
With access to context, ads can be highly customizable
Users are already seeing 4x ROI
Meta says marketing has now crossed the 'AI threshold', pushing its suite of tools as an end-to-end platform that covers ad creation, testing and launching.
The company is now positioning product data as a key element, with AI capable of building and optimizing the most effective ad format for each individual viewer in real time thanks to the context and knowledge it gets from sellers' catalogs.
As a result, Meta envisions advertisers' roles evolving from content generation to managerial roles focused on providing the right context via product catalog data, brand assets and other creative materials.
Meta's AI changes marketing for good
At Cannes Lions 2026, the company announced a series of improvements designed to position its AI-powered marketing tools as an end-to-end platform, including a shared space where marketers can collaborate and make changes to campaigns.
Meta is also introducing brand memory, enhanced text generation tools and translations.
A collaboration with WPP has also opened up the platform to agencies so that third parties can step in to run ads for their clients.
According to Meta's blog post, advertisers are now seeing a $4.13 revenue return on their $1 advertising investments, marking a 25% increase since 2022.
At the event, the company also stressed the importance of creators in today's economy. Creator Marketplace and Partnership Ads Hub are now merging into the Meta Creator Marketing Hub so it's easier for creators to run schemes and work with brands.
Facebook creators are also being added to the Creator Marketplace, which previously only included Instagram creators.
"With these new updates, we’re accelerating our ecosystem and giving marketers, advertisers, and agencies a platform that compounds performance," Meta concluded.
The movie's streaming release follows a successful theatrical run
The Drama received mostly positive reviews from critics
The Drama is finally coming to HBO Max, with confirmation that it will arrive on one of the best streaming services on July 31.
A24's black comedy The Drama caused quite a stir with its dramatic marketing, teasing engagement photos of Robert Pattinson and Zendaya's characters. Even before I knew what it was about, I knew it would be a must-watch.
The Drama follows Emma and Charlie, whose relationship is tested by an unexpected revelation during the week before their wedding. What follows ensures that the movie definitely lives up to its name — that's all I'll say.
What did critics say about The Drama?
The Drama received mostly positive reviews, earning a 71% Rotten Tomatoes score, and there was plenty of praise for the two leads.
According to the critics' consensus: "Flirting with complex themes, The Drama walks a tonal tightrope with impressive poise thanks to career-highlight performances by Robert Pattinson and Zendaya."
The audience score is just as favorable, with the verdict being: "Elevated by remarkable performances, The Drama wrestles with questions of trust and forgiveness, drawing out profoundly uncomfortable emotions that linger long after the credits roll."
The movie is joining an impressive line-up of A24 movies from recent releases to the studio's earlier work. If you're a fan of black comedy and drama movies, you won't want to miss The Drama.
Unfortunately, there's still a little while to wait until it arrives. But we've got you covered, as you can check out our best HBO Max movies round-up to get more recommendations for what to watch.
GTA 6 pre-orders will officially begin at midnight local time
The Standard Edition will cost $79.99 and the Ultimate Edition will cost $99.99
Pre-loads will begin seven days ahead of launch, on November 12
Rockstar Games has unveiled the editions for Grand Theft Auto 6 and confirmed when fans can secure their pre-orders.
GTA 6 pre-orders are scheduled to begin on June 25 at midnight local time for the Standard and Ultimate Editions. The Standard Edition will cost $79.99, and the Ultimate Edition will cost $99.99.
As Rockstar details on its website, the Ultimate Editions "amplifies this experience with an exclusive collection of premium vehicles, weapons, apparel, and action threaded across all aspects of Jason and Lucia’s story."
Players who pre-order the Standard or Ultimate Edition before November 20 will also receive the Vintage Vice City Pack, which comes with a collection of items that "flash back to when the neon burned brightest."
Those who pre-order digital versions of GTA 6 can begin pre-loading on November 12, seven days in advance of the game's launch on November 19.
The physical version of GTA 6, which contains a download code inside the box, will be available starting November 12 to support pre-loading.
Developer Rockstar Games has announced the price of Grand Theft Auto 6
The standard edition will cost $79.99
The Ultimate Edition will be available for $99.99
Developer Rockstar Games has announced the price of the highly anticipated upcoming game Grand Theft Auto 6, and it's not as bad as some were expecting.
A new press release states that the standard edition of the game will retail for $79.99 (which presumably means a £79.99 price point in the UK and around AU$125 in Australia). The more premium Ultimate Edition will then cost $99.99 and will come with some digital bonus content.
As per the official Rockstar site, Ultimate Edition buyers will get their hands on an "exclusive collection" of in-game items, including a selection of unique vehicles, matching revolvers for the protagonist duo, bonus customization options for guns, vehicles, and clothing, and more.
Anyone who purchases either edition before November 20, 2026 will get their hands on the Vintage Vice City Pack downloadable content (DLC) as well. This nets you the '55 Vapid Stanier sedan vehicle, a garage on Ocean Beach, and some retro outfits and hairstyles for the two playable characters. This is on top of a charming weapon pattern inspired by Vice City hero Tommy Vercetti's iconic shirt.
A fair price?
(Image credit: Rockstar Games)
This news comes after months of speculation regarding how much the games will cost, with some analysts suggesting that it could cost as much as $100 to buy. With that in mind, the starting price of $79.99, while higher than that for most games, doesn't seem that bad.
Many developers also reportedly hoped that Rockstar would break the existing '$70 barrier'. With most AAA releases priced at $69.99 / £69.99, there's a chance that this announcement will kickstart a trend of $79.99 games. We'll just have to wait and see whether other companies follow suit.
Grand Theft Auto 6 is set to release on November 19, 2026 for PS5 and Xbox Series X and Series S. Pre-orders will begin on June 25 at midnight local time.
The press release does state that the physical version of GTA 6 will be released early on November 12 in order to support pre-loading, and will contain "a download code inside the box" rather than a standard physical game.
If you're interested in placing a physical pre-order as quickly as possible, you can save the search links below.
Enterprises built their early AI strategies in a world that assumed relative freedom of data movement. That world no longer exists, so how do they adjust to the new world?
While it’s a cliché that data is the new oil, the truth is that data does need to be able to flow around an organisation and come to rest in some central location, where it can be refined to extract insight and value.
In recent years, that refining has come, of course, via AI.
But if we really think that analogy through, it also captures some of the problems enterprises currently face managing data.
Recently, the world has seen what happens when the free flow of oil, gas, and other fundamental resources is disrupted. Governments and companies are scrambling to work around supply chain interruptions in the short term and looking for energy sovereignty and resilience in the long term. In this case, centralization has become a liability, thanks to a single, but critical, chokepoint.
In the same way, the upheaval created by AI, paired with governments’ and regulators’ attempts to manage its impact, means companies need to rethink how they architect and manage their data. The difference is that the ways traditional data flows around organizations are changing.
After all, a centralized approach made sense when moving data was straightforward. Now, however, governance and sovereignty concerns and data movement costs have changed the calculus.
AI transformation
AI alone has transformed the equation when it comes to the volume of data that must be managed. It’s not just training models that require massive amounts of data. Those models need constant updating and tuning with fresh data. And, if those models are to deliver value to the business, companies will be constantly running inference, which requires more data, and generates more data.
Unsurprisingly, governments and regulators have an interest in AI governance. This includes existing concerns about data residency and the possibility of new problems, such as data leakage into LLMs.
In Europe, for example, the regulatory landscape laid out by the GDPR mandate has been complicated by the rollout of the EU AI Act, which comes fully into force from August this year. In the US, companies face multiple federal and state-level regulations. Any, or all, of these could come into play as data is moved to that central refinery.
Governments also have an understandable strategic interest in developing sovereign AI, further complicating matters when it comes to both data and the models that work on it.
Once we consider this, it’s clear that only a few organizations are architected to handle the sheer scale of data involved in AI, and the governance it requires.
Companies grow messily, whether organically or through M&A, inheriting different infrastructures – and different governance regimes - as they sprawl across borders.
Data in the old world
In the old world, free-flowing data might have been seen as efficient. Now, given the vast amount of data involved, generating copies of data and moving data across borders is both fraught with risk from a governance perspective. And with escalating cloud egress fees, data movement becomes extremely expensive. At the same time, moving or copying on-prem presents both a financial challenge, and imposes a burden on already stretched technology teams.
What are our options in this new world? Few technology leaders have the option of simply opting out of the whole AI revolution. Whatever your personal views on the technology, few C-suites are prepared to sidestep the AI race.
But we can lay out a roadmap for how to manage data – and compute – in this new world.
To start with, we need to understand the environment we’re really operating in. This may well include accepting that a hybrid or multi-cloud architecture is going to be the normal state of affairs. The very nature of AI, with companies needing to access multiple models and multiple services, means that traditional monolithic, central approaches simply won’t scale.
This, in turn, means every technology leader needs to be crystal clear on what governance means for their organisation and its data, whether that’s data privacy or residency requirements. And it’s imperative that governance is embedded in the AI workflow from the outset. It’s too important to be an afterthought or kicked down the road as other priorities arise.
What this makes clear is that it will normally make more sense to bring compute and those critical AI models to the data, not the other way round.
This isn’t just about reducing data movement costs or producing multiple copies of data. It’s about reducing the friction that comes with reconciling governance requirements as data moves around organizations and across borders. But it can also mean reduced latency and fresher data, making AI more effective.
That’s not to say that it’s not sometimes necessary to move data. But if that’s the case, let’s be mindful and deliberate about it.
But while data becomes increasingly decentralized, it’s imperative that we centralize the management of data access and build the platform accordingly. This lays the groundwork for clear data governance and sovereign AI alike.
By rethinking how they manage data movement, technology leaders can bypass the escalating egress costs and compliance traps embedded in the old way of doing things. The result is an AI strategy that is both scalable and sustainable, enabling enterprise-grade AI, wherever their data lives.
This article was produced as part of TechRadar Pro Perspectives, our channel to feature the best and brightest minds in the technology industry today.
The views expressed here are those of the author and are not necessarily those of TechRadarPro or Future plc. If you are interested in contributing find out more here: https://www.techradar.com/pro/perspectives-how-to-submit
Said SUV has an advanced sound system to turn audiophile heads
You might know the brand from its beloved Focal Bathys headphones, or more recently for its expensive floor-standing speakers, but Focal is also making great strides in another musical arena: automotive.
The company has teamed up with car company DS Automobiles to unveil a brand-new audiophile-adjacent car: the DS No 7.
I'm no automotive journalist, but even I can tell you that this is a partially- or fully-electric SUV which seats four people comfortably and — given the 14 Focal speakers that'll be dotted around them — rather happily too, I'd venture.
The electric model costs £49,190 (about $66,000, AU$100,000, though DS Automobiles doesn't sell in those regions) while the hybrid one goes for £38,290 (roughly $52,000, AU$80,000). Although that may sound pretty pricey, it's actually cheaper than some Focal tower speakers…
The Focal point
(Image credit: Focal)
Let's get to the meat of the thing: audio. Focal's presence here is to make an in-car audio system sound sublime. To that end, the French audio specialist has kitted out the DS No 7 with 14 speakers, to create a surround-sound system. These include two tweeters mounted on the roof, four woofers and a subwoofer called a Power Flower (yes, really). The 14 are spread across the vehicle, to fill the car with sound.
Keeping the car audio running is a 690W class D amplifier. It also uses a Focal-made DSP to emphasize the spatial benefits of all these speakers, whether you're seated in the front seats or the back ones.
Focal has also contributed some design ideas to the car, to improve audio. The windows are laminated, and materials used in the design absorb sound, to control audio nasties like echo and diffraction.
As an audio journalist, I've always been led to believe that car sound systems are a means to fight a losing battle. No matter how refined your driver set-up is, if it's fighting with the noise of the street and other vehicles (and the fact that the driver isn't seated in the middle 'sweet spot' unlike on a motorbike where the driver's ears are naturally equidistant from speakers), you're going to be having an imperfect time.
So maybe Focal's found a way to fix this. Or perhaps it's a sound system for when you're idling somewhere quiet, watching TikToks on your phone…
LastPass confirmed a supply chain breach via Klue, where stolen OAuth tokens let attackers access its Salesforce environment
Customer names, contact details, and CRM data were exposed, but master passwords were not; phishing risk remains high
Threat actor Icarus claimed responsibility; other firms including Recorded Future, Tanium, Jamf, Sprout Social, Gong, and Insurity also impacted
Password manager LastPass confirmed that it lost sensitive customer data in a supply chain attack that struck a third party.
As LastPass explained in a newly released incident report, unnamed threat actors first targeted Klue, a third-party market intelligence platform that integrates with its Salesforce and Gong systems. After obtaining its OAuth tokens, the attackers were able to access LastPass’ Salesforce environment and exfiltrate sensitive data stored there.
“On June 12th, LastPass was made aware of an incident that occurred at Klue (klue.com), a third-party market intelligence platform utilized by our go-to-market teams, which integrates with our Salesforce and Gong systems,” LastPass said.
Compromising names and emails
"We immediately launched an investigation and learned that, as part of this incident, an unauthorized actor was able to obtain OAuth tokens Klue held for many of its customers, including LastPass.”
“The threat actor then used these credentials to access LastPass customer data within our Salesforce environment.”
Further in the report, the password manager said the attackers most likely accessed customer names, phone numbers, email addresses, postal addresses, support case information, and sales/CRM-related data.
Passwords, including the master password, were most likely not exposed. However, criminals can use the data they obtained to launch phishing attacks, through which they might trick the victims into sharing those secrets, as well.
LastPass is now urging customers to remain vigilant and be careful with incoming messages, particularly those claiming to come from the company.
According to BleepingComputer, the Klue supply chain attack was claimed by a threat actor called Icarus, which apparently used compromised legacy credentials for an integration service to breach the intelligence platform.
Besides LastPass, a number of other organizations are affected as well, the publication further reported, including Recorded Future, Tanium, Jamf, Sprout Social, Gong, and Insurity. LastPass has now disabled employee access to Klue.
We're nearing the end of the World Cup 2026 group stages, and things are hotting up — both metaphorically and literally. A temperatures in my living room soar, I've decided it's time to take my game viewing outside, where I can enjoy the action with the cool evening breeze on my face.
For that, I need a projector — and now's a really good time to buy one. We're in the middle of the Amazon Prime Day sale (with retailers like Currys, AO and Very running rival deals events), so there are plenty of discounts to be had if you know where to look.
Below, I've rounded up the best projector deals I've spotted, including the ones I'm deciding between for my own al fresco watch parties. I've stuck to sub-£450 buys here, which means they're more basic options, and most are compact and portable, too. If you're looking for something higher-end that will be more of a permanent fixture, head to our best projector guide for our top picks.
Xgimi's range is worth checking out in particular, as are Anker's Nebula projectors. We haven't reviewed these specific models, but we have tested similar products from those brands, and been impressed. Our Anker Nebula Mars 3 is the larger and higher-specced sibling of the Mars 3 Air Mini featured below, for instance, and scored four stars in our review. We called the Xgimi Mogo 3 "a strong contender for the portable projector crown", too — and its successor is included in my deals roundup.
Scroll down for more excellent deals, and happy watching...
The in-ear audio market has exploded in the past couple of years, and that includes gaming earbuds, with a whole host of brands releasing in-ear options. I've tested a bunch of them, and the good news is that some of these are among the current Amazon Prime Day deals.
Even premium sets like the excellent SteelSeries Arctis GameBuds that I use across platforms, and the brilliant planar-magnetic PlayStation Pulse Explore earbuds that I love to use with my PlayStation Portal, have price cuts right now.
Note that not all the discounts and prices below are the same in the US and UK. But I can almost guarantee that whatever you're looking for, on either side of the pond, you'll find something excellent.
Gaming earbuds in the US
SteelSeries Arctis GameBuds
Pros
Superb SteelSeries audio quality
Ergonomic design and robust build
Excellent companion app, and super multiplatform compatibility
Traveling to the 2026 World Cup means joining hundreds of thousands of fans in crowded cities across North America.
Airports, stadiums, fan zones, and hotels are all packed with people competing for the same public Wi-Fi networks. These connections are often slow and insecure, making personal data vulnerable to interception.
To stay protected without sacrificing speed, you need more than just a VPN – you need the best VPN with the right settings. Tuning your VPN configuration helps keep your connection secure and fast, no matter where you go during this summer’s tournament.
The 5 best settings to change for top VPN performance
Just turning on your VPN isn’t always enough to cut through the noise of a packed stadium or busy airport terminal. To get good speeds and real security when thousands of people are online at once, here are five specific settings to tweak:
1. Protocol
WireGuard is the superior protocol choice for modern devices, offering faster connection speeds and lower latency compared to OpenVPN or IKEv2.
This efficiency matters when network congestion is high. WireGuard establishes secure tunnels more quickly, reducing wait times. If your provider offers OpenVPN, it's a great alternative for compatibility, but for raw performance in crowded zones, WireGuard is best.
2. Transport protocol
If you've never heard of transport protocols before, think of them as the delivery method your VPN uses to move data. Most commonly, you'll see TCP and UDP as your choices for this.
On congested networks, TCP’s reliability mechanisms can add delay when packets are lost. UDP avoids this overhead by sending data without waiting for confirmation.
In a crowded stadium where every millisecond counts, switching to UDP can reduce latency and improve responsiveness for smooth VPN streaming even when the network is struggling to keep up.
3. Split tunnelling
With split tunneling, you can choose which apps can be routed outside the VPN’s encrypted tunnel. At a stadium, your banking app needs maximum security, but a local map app might benefit from direct access to avoid unnecessary latency.
Excluding non-sensitive apps from encryption can reduce bandwidth strain and prevent compatibility issues with local networks that sometimes block VPN traffic entirely.
4. Location
Connecting to the server closest to your physical location often results in lower ping and faster speeds. However, nearby servers may be overwhelmed by thousands of users connecting simultaneously.
If your current location lags, try switching to a server slightly further away that’s under less user load. Avoid jumping between regions unnecessarily, as crossing international borders increases the distance data travels and introduces lag that ruins live streaming.
5. Obfuscation
In monitored environments like airports, deep packet inspection can detect and block standard VPN traffic.
Obfuscation disguises VPN traffic as regular HTTPS web traffic, allowing you to bypass firewalls and censorship attempts. Although this adds processing that might marginally impact speed, the ability to stay connected when other connections fail more than makes up for this.
Norton VPN handles 2026 World Cup crowds well. With servers in over two dozen North American cities, it’s designed for high traffic. It features native WireGuard support and built-in obfuscation to bypass congestion and blocks. Plus, a generous 60-day money-back guarantee gives you plenty of risk-free time to test these tweaks.View Deal
As you prepare to cheer on your national team at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, make sure your setup can handle the packed stadiums and busy airports.
By selecting the right VPN protocol, using UDP, and enabling features like split tunneling, you can protect your data and keep your device safe so you can enjoy the World Cup worry-free..
With Videodrome, Mulholland Drive, and Wild at Heart among my favorite movies of all time, I can't help but be tickled by the David Lynch-themed title of this week's Rick and Morty season 9 episode: Erickerhead.
A clever play on Eraserhead, we could expect the Smith family to turn their typical extraterrestrial adventures into something even more surreal. As the synopsis cryptically hints, "Rick's stomach is mad, broh. But it's all-you-can-eat-and-drink here, broh."
Truthfully, that could mean anything. But when does Rick and Morty season 9 episode 6 arrive on Adult Swim, Hulu, and HBO Max?
What time can I watch Rick and Morty season 9 episode 6 on Adult Swim, Hulu, and HBO Max?
In the US, Rick and Morty season 9 episode 6 will debut on Adult Swim on Sunday, June 28 at 8pm PT / 11pm ET.
Viewers elsewhere, as well as in the US, have two streaming options: Hulu and HBO Max. Episodes should appear on these platforms 24 hours after they've aired on Adult Swim, meaning you can expect episode 6 on Monday, June 29.
These are the timings you need to take note of:
US – 12am PT / 3am ET
Canada – 12am PT / 3am ET
UK – 8am BST
India – 12:30pm IST
Singapore – 3pm SGT
Australia – 6pm AEST
New Zealand – 8pm NZDT
When do new episodes of Rick and Morty season 9 come out?
(Image credit: Adult Swim)
Rick and Morty season 9 is set to have 10 episodes. As long as there are no unexpected delays, we can expect it to have the following release schedule:
If you’re looking to buy an instant film camera, there are only two serious names in the game: Polaroid, and Fujifilm Instax. While some manufacturers like Canon and Kodak offer digital instant-print cameras that use techniques like dye-sublimation to create instant prints of digital images on specialist paper, it’s not the same. For the true alchemical magic of instant film, you Polaroid and Instax are the big hitters.
Polaroid is undoubtedly the better-known brand name due to its long history, dating back to the 1940s (though hitting major popularity in the 70s). It spent a few years in the wilderness following a bankruptcy in the early 2000s, before being purchased and revitalised in 2017 by an analog film collective called The Impossible Project. All the proper Polaroid cameras you can buy new today have been released since this renaissance.
Instax cameras may not have the historical cachet of Polaroids, but they are massively popular — Fujifilm reported last year that its Instax line has sold more than 100 million units since its inception in 1998. I don’t have similar sales data on post-revival Polaroid, but frankly, I don’t think it’s anywhere close.
Ultimately, there are compelling reasons to choose either brand. The Instax mini 12 is TR's pick as the best instant camera, and I can see why — it's a great option for the majority of users. But for me personally, it’s Polaroid all the way.
(Image credit: Lauren Scott)
Why I’ll pick Polaroid every time
It’s not a question of print size, as both brands have similar offerings. Fujifilm Instax Wide film is about the same size as a Polaroid I-Type (or SX-70) print, just rectangular rather than square. Polaroid’s smaller ‘Go’ film produces prints of comparable dimensions to Instax mini.
What it’s all about is vibe. Scoff if you want, but come on — you’re shooting instant film. You’re not here for accurate colors or pitch-perfect sharpness, you’re here because you love the tangibility of holding a print in your hands, the transportative lo-fi look of a format that’s been around for half a century. It’s all vibe.
I’ve shot Polaroid and Instax prints side by side before for comparison. Once, while I was viewing them, my partner made an astute observation that I have since stolen and made my own: the Instax catches your eye first, but you end up liking the Polaroid more. Instax prints are bright and vivid, with naturalistic colors and a decent level of detail, especially the Wide format. They’re fun and kitschy.
But Polaroid images just have that inimitable retro glow that instantly transports me back in time. The softer, more muted color palette makes images less immediately striking, but more satisfying the longer I look at them. There’s a richness to them, a greater sense of depth and subtle tonality. If I were embarking on an artistic project with instant film, there’s no question which format I’d choose. It wouldn’t even be a decision.
This isn't an entirely fair comparison, as full-size I-Type is always going to beat Instax mini. But for me, while the sky in the Instax looks truer to life, that stylized retro glow on the Polaroid is just so appealing. (Image credit: Jon Stapley)
Instax cameras are easier to use for sure — most are just point and shoot. If I were recommending an instant camera for a family, or for someone who isn’t an experienced photographer, I’d go with Instax. But for me, as someone who knows my way around a camera, the depth of control offered by the top-end Polaroid cameras leaves Instax in the dust.
Connect to the Polaroid app, which works very smoothly and is highly intuitive, and you can completely program in your settings, taking total control over your images. Want to try your hand at creating long exposures on instant film? It’s straightforward on a Polaroid Flip or Polaroid I-2, and impossible on an Instax Mini 99.
Sure, Polaroids aren’t perfect. The ongoing cost of I-Type film is a sore point, with packs of eight shots costing the same as a pack of 20 shots of Instax Wide or Mini. This sucks. No way to pretend it doesn’t. Buying in bulk can help a little, though honestly not a lot. At least the smaller Polaroid Go film is much cheaper, and I prefer it to Instax Mini. Again, its subtler look is less striking, but richer.
I really enjoyed shooting with the Go Gen 3. My shots weren't all hits, but there were some that I loved. Again, it's not quite true to life, but it has distinctive character. (Image credit: Jon Stapley)
Do you agree? Let me know which is your preferred instant-film format in the poll above. And if you’re looking for an instant-film camera to buy, see my explainer on why the Polaroid Go Gen 2 is the best buy you can make this Prime Day and click on today's best deals where you live using the links below.
Most executives have no idea how much of their website traffic comes from AI agents.
If you were to ask which AI agents are legitimate and which are impersonating trusted names to scrape data, they’d struggle to tell them apart, a problem that’s growing by the day.
In early 2026, AI and bots generated billions of requests, outpacing internet traffic from humans.
This is no longer a fringe activity; AI agents are now a persistent, substantial portion of the traffic hitting websites.
Yet most organisations can’t tell you what that traffic is doing, where it’s really coming from, and whether it’s helping or hurting their business.
The Volume Trap
When organisations hear that AI agent traffic is creating billions of requests, the instinct is often to treat it as a monolithic category. It’s not. Lumping all AI agents together is like treating all humans as identical users; it misses the nuance that determines value.
Take two agents from the same company: one built to improve search relevance, potentially driving referral traffic back to a website, and another designed purely for large-scale data extraction to train AI models, offering zero benefit to organisations.
Both show up in traffic reports, both generate similar volumes, but only one has any upside for businesses. Without the ability to distinguish between them, companies can’t make informed decisions about either. Organisations are flying blind, and the cost of that blindness is steep.
The Trust Problem
Here is where it gets trickier: even when an AI agent identifies itself, organisations can’t trust it. Recent data shows that well-known, trusted AI agent names are being actively impersonated at scale. Meta-ExternalAgent was spoofed over 16 million times in early 2026. ChatGPT-User saw nearly 8 million fraudulent requests using its name. PerplexityBot had nearly 2.4% of all requests claiming to be legitimate turn out to be fake.
If website allowlists – approved lists granted automatic access - certain AI agents by name, assuming they are legitimate crawlers, a fake agent string is essentially a skeleton key. Bad actors know this and are using trusted agent identities as cover to bypass defenses and extract whatever data they want.
The exposure isn’t theoretical. Testing across 700k high-traffic websites revealed that the vast majority return full access to spoofed AI agent requests with no verification whatsoever.
The Agentic Browser Challenge
Traditional AI crawlers are only part of the story. A newer, more sophisticated vector is emerging: agentic browsers. These tools don’t just request a page, they simulate full browser sessions and interact with a site like a human user.
They’re harder to detect and harder to distinguish from legitimate traffic, and they are showing up in force across the industries with the most valuable transactional data.
In February 2026, agentic browser traffic was concentrated in ecommerce and retail (about 20% of volume) and travel and tourism (15%). These sectors hold some of the most valuable transactional data on the internet: pricing data, inventory information, customer behavior patterns, and competitive intelligence.
For businesses in any of these sectors it’s time to start actively monitoring for agentic browser activity, as organisations may be leaking data without realising it.
What This Means for Decision Makers
The implications of this visibility gap are immediate and material. Invisible traffic is unmanaged traffic. Companies that can’t identify traffic can’t decide what to do with it. Should it block it? Throttle it? Allowlist it? Monetise it? Without clear visibility, decisions become guesswork.
High volume does not equal high value. Some AI agents drive search visibility and referral traffic. Others extract data and contribute nothing in return. By treating them the same, organisations are subsidising data collection efforts with no upside for a business.
Relying on basic bot detection doesn’t cut it anymore. Agentic browsers behave like real users and simple signal-based detection misses them. Organisations need behavioural analysis that accounts for session patterns, timing, interaction signatures, and other contextual indicators.
Where to Start
Getting control of AI agent traffic starts with visibility. Organisations need to log and classify what is hitting sites, by agent type, behaviour, and claimed identity without relying solely on user-agent strings, as they’re easy to spoof.
Agent classification is an ongoing practice. As the AI agent ecosystem evolves quickly, with new agents appearing regularly and existing ones changing behaviour, in-time assessments go stale fast.
Establish a tiered access framework, but make it session-specific, not agent-specific. The same AI agent can exhibit legitimate behaviour in one session and extractive behaviour in another.
Intent-based detection evaluates what an agent is doing in real time, not just what it claims to be. Is it browsing product pages at a human pace or scraping an entire catalogue? The behaviour in each session should determine the response.
Companies should stop assuming that because something identifies itself as a known agent, it is legitimate. The cost of blind trust is too high. Verify everything.
AI agents are not going away. Their traffic will continue to grow, and their behaviour will continue to evolve. The organisations that thrive in this environment will be the ones that can see clearly what is happening on their websites and make deliberate, informed decisions about what to allow and what to block.
Right now, most organisations can’t, and that needs to change. AI agents are already interacting with websites. The question is whether organisations know what they’re doing while they’re there.
This article was produced as part of TechRadar Pro Perspectives, our channel to feature the best and brightest minds in the technology industry today.
The views expressed here are those of the author and are not necessarily those of TechRadarPro or Future plc. If you are interested in contributing find out more here: https://www.techradar.com/pro/perspectives-how-to-submit
O2's 2G networks set to be pulled from 2029 in line with industry
4G and 5G networks are more secure and more efficient
Some IoT and connected systems still use 2G
Virgin Media O2 (VMO2) has become the latest UK mobile operator to announce plans to shut down its legacy 2G networks, beginning in 2029.
At the same time, VMO2 said not having to look after 2G networks will free up more resources to look after, and improve, 4G and 5G network capacity, speeds and reliability.
The company already started shutting down its 3G networks in 2025, with a national cutoff planned as soon as this year, but 2G networks remained open in the meantime.
VMO2 to start pulling 2G networks from 2029
EE is also turning off its 2G networks from 2029, with VodafoneThree following suit in 2030.
While VMO2 promises to warn customers to help them identify affected devices and migrate to more modern networks, most smartphone users are unlikely to notice an impact because modern smartphones rely on 4G and 5G networks instead.
But IoT devices, smart meters, payment terminals, alarm systems and other crucial infrastructure has traditionally used 2G networks.
"While most customers won’t need to take any action at all, some businesses might need to start planning for this now," CTO Jeanie York explained.
The industry-wide 2G shutdown ultimately falls under government plans to strengthen telecoms security, following concerns over supply chain risks, cyberattacks and the general security of critical national infrastructure.
VMO2 also disclosed the environmental benefits of the shutdown. Though its 2G networks only carry 0.5% of all VMO2 mobile network traffic, it accounts for more than 10% of the company’s total cell site energy consumption. The company declared that its 4G and 5G networks are 10x more efficient.
The Samsung Galaxy XR headset is now available for preorder ahead of its July 8 launch in the UK, and while you can’t pick it up at Amazon, that doesn’t mean you can't snag a Prime Day-like deal or two.
Best of all, you won’t need to be a Prime or other subscription service member; Samsung’s discounts are available to every shopper through its online store — you’ll just need to bundle a few things with your purchase, or sign up to PayPal (if you haven’t already) and check out using that as your payment method.
For that PayPal offer, you’ll get £100 off using the code PAYPALXR at Samsung's online store. That’s a serious saving off the £1,699 asking price, but you only have until July 7 to take advantage of this offer.
Plus, if you’re looking to upgrade your Samsung tech, or dive deeper into its ecosystem, it has deals that will save you 10% on Galaxy smartphones, a Galaxy Watch, and Galaxy Buds.
Today's best Samsung Galaxy XR deals
Code: PAYPALXR If you buy the Samsung Galaxy XR headset using PayPal then you can save £100 with the code PAYPALXR. You only have until July 7 to use this deal, but if you’re strongly considering getting the Samsung Galaxy XR headset then it’s a hefty saving on the device for little to no effort (especially for folks with a PayPal account already).View Deal
Save 10% on Galaxy smartphones — August 4, 2026 Save 10% on Galaxy watches and buds — September 30, 2026 If you don’t want to simply buy a Galaxy XR headset, but also upgrade your whole Samsung setup, then this combo deal is for you, as you can save 10% on Galaxy gadgets. I currently use a Galaxy Watch 8 Classic, a pair of Galaxy Buds Pro 4, and a Galaxy S26 Ultra, and they are all superb, and this kind of discount only makes the tech even better.View Deal
Save 30% on a travel case & controllers — September 30, 2026 Lastly, much like the above tech offer you can also save big on an official travel case and Samsung controllers when they’re bought with the Galaxy XR headset. The controllers will be required for some titles, though most games rely on hand tracking so I’m not convinced you need a pair straight away. A case, however, is a must-buy. Whether it’s this one or an unofficial box, any VR headset is much easier to carry around with a case, and it helps keep the headset’s lenses from getting damaged by direct sunlight. Besides a silicone facial interface (which this headset lacks), a case is the only accessory every VR headset user should own.View Deal
After spending a week with the Samsung Galaxy XR headset, Lance Ulanoff called it “an impressive multimodal AI spatial computer,” though Android XR and the overall experience didn’t hold a candle to visionOS and the Apple Vision Pro, especially the M5 version.
He also noted that, at launch, Gemini felt less deeply integrated as he had originally imagined, and the lack of precision with controls dulled the ‘wow’ factor.
At the same time, the Galaxy XR headset is half the price of the Vision Pro, so technical downgrades are to be expected, and as Google and Samsung iterate on the software, you could find the Samsung Galaxy XR headset seriously ups its game — especially as more apps get XR support.
It delivers some impressive OLED visuals despite costing less, and can integrate with the full G Suite of apps for some spatial productivity. So, if you want something that balances work and play, with great performance, at a more affordable price point, and don’t mind missing out on the Quest gaming library, you’ll struggle to find something better than Samsung’s XR machine.
I’m sure this scenario is familiar to you — you buy an external hard drive for a certain capacity, thinking that it would have more than enough space to store all your current files, and many more in the future — but then you soon realise that you’ve filled it up in no time. You’re then forced to delete some files to make enough room for new ones that you need to back up or archive. And so it goes.
I can definitely relate, having filled up a couple of hard drives ranging from 2TB to 6TB containing photo libraries, videos and Steam game backups, then later finding myself auditing those files more often than I’d like to clear up storage space.
This deal can also benefit those who work with large files regularly, like content creators, video editors, data professionals, graphic artists and more, where they can focus on their work and not constantly worry about storage.
This listing is from Amazon Germany, so you may have to wait until at least early next month for delivery to Australia, but this is so far the lowest price we’ve seen for EOFY. The Seagate Expansion Desktop has USB 3.0 file transfers, Windows and Mac support (with automatic recognition for easy setup) and access to a data recovery service for that extra peace of mind.View Deal
In our best external hard drives buying guide, our reviewer called the Seagate Expansion Desktop the best-performing HDD they'd tested thanks to the read and write speeds of 242 MB/s and 237 MB/s, respectively, and for its relatively compact size compared to others in this category.
The main downsides the tester mentioned were the hard drive’s external power requirement — which is something I would certainly live with for a capacity of this size — and the expensive RRP, which this 32% discount handily takes care of.
While you can invest in some network attached storage (NAS) devices for your growing storage needs, the Seagate Expansion Desktop is an easier plug-and-play solution that won’t require much fiddling to set up — it’s as easy as plugging the drive in and moving files to it via Windows Explorer or macOS Finder. Plus, this deal is a much cheaper alternative as the NAS devices themselves without drives cost around the same or even more in some cases.
On the other hand, this external drive can be used in a NAS device (or your PC, even) through “shucking”, or removing the external casing and installing the bare drive into a hard drive bay to add more storage for redundancy or otherwise. Do note that this will void the drive’s warranty.
In any case, a deal like this in a period of storage component shortages is hard to pass up for anyone in need of extra storage space for backups, archiving or any work that involves large file sizes.
NATO seeks technologies capable of shutting down enemy airfields longer
Competition focuses on aircraft, runways, fuel depots and infrastructure
Proposed systems must survive electronic warfare and navigation disruptions
NATO and Ukraine have launched a €250,000 (~$287,000) competition seeking technologies capable of denying adversaries the use of airfields for extended periods.
The initiative, known as Persistent Airfield Denial, focuses on disrupting aviation infrastructure used to support military operations against Ukraine.
Organizers are looking for practical solutions that can damage aircraft, runways, fuel facilities, ammunition storage sites, and supporting ground infrastructure.
Search for technologies capable of long-term airfield disruption
The competition is being organized by NATO Allied Command Transformation together with the NATO-Ukraine Joint Analysis, Training and Education Centre, commonly known as JATEC.
According to Ukraine’s Ministry of Defense, the effort stems from the importance of airfields in supporting Russian aerial operations against Ukrainian territory.
The ministry stated that “Every Russian aviation sortie to strike Ukraine begins at an airfield,” explaining why the search concentrates on restricting access to aviation infrastructure.
Officials are seeking concepts capable of sustaining operational pressure against enemy airfields rather than conducting only short duration strikes.
Proposed systems may rely on drones, loitering munitions, swarm technologies, or alternative methods for delivering destructive payloads across significant distances.
The competition rules allow virtually any technological architecture provided the proposed solution can achieve the required operational outcomes.
Entrants must also demonstrate effectiveness in electronic warfare environments where communications may be degraded or entirely unavailable during missions.
Solutions are expected to continue functioning without direct operator control or access to satellite navigation services under challenging battlefield conditions.
Organizers additionally require systems capable of operating throughout the year and in varying weather conditions without significant performance degradation.
The initiative follows previous NATO-backed innovation challenges that sought responses to guided bomb threats and fiber-optic drones increasingly used in combat.
Prototype requirements and emphasis on rapid deployment
The organizers require technologies that can move quickly from development into operational deployment after testing has been completed successfully.
The desired Technology Readiness Level falls between 5 and 7, indicating prototype stage capabilities rather than purely theoretical concepts.
Participants are expected to provide an initial minimally functional version within six weeks, demonstrating practical progress toward deployment objectives.
The proposal submission window remains open until July 20, 2026, while selected finalists will be announced on August 11.
Ukrainian miltech companies, startups, engineering teams, and defense developers are being encouraged to submit candidate technologies for evaluation.
Many of the concepts likely to emerge could involve autonomous systems designed to function independently when communications become unavailable.
Developers may also employ AI tools to improve navigation, coordination, and decision-making during contested operations.
Last year, Ukraine's Security Service carried out Operation Spiderweb, a coordinated drone attack against five Russian airfields.
Kyiv claimed the operation destroyed or damaged 41 aircraft and caused roughly $7 billion in damages, though Russia says it lost 11 planes and about $26 million.
Though Ukraine already operates cheap drones such as the Hornet and other modified AI-assisted UAVs capable of reaching targets hundreds of kilometers away, it is now seeking 'Spiderweb-type' technologies capable of delivering similar or greater effects.
Five years ago today we were told that Windows 11 was inbound as a free upgrade for all Windows 10 users — but there was no stampede to adopt it, that's for sure (and the hardware requirements certainly didn't help the cause).
It wasn't until July 2025 that Windows 11 overtook Windows 10 as the dominant version of Microsoft's desktop OS according to Statcounter's figures, but it now holds a comfortable majority of over 70% of that market. As it should do, considering Windows 10 ran out of support last October (and only has a few months of extended support left).
However, putting aside the sluggish pace of adoption and the various problems that have plagued Windows 11 through the years (all the bugs and some notably missing features in the main), I think there's now cause for optimism for the future of Microsoft's operating system.
So, let me share my thoughts and reflect on what has been a half-decade of Windows 11, and tell you why I'm way more positive about the OS than I was last year — and why I think that Microsoft is finally on track (with, of course, some inevitable caveats).
The great fix-athon
(Image credit: Alex Photo Stock / Shutterstock)
Most of my hopefulness about where Windows 11 is heading comes, of course, from the big campaign Microsoft kicked off in March 2026 to fix Windows 11. Since that announcement — which I would say is the biggest statement to have been made since the OS was first announced in 2021 — Microsoft has very much proven that it intends to tackle all sorts of shortcomings and pain points with the OS.
In fact, Microsoft has hit many wish-list features that I never expected would come to Windows 11, and the extent of the crowd-pleasing measures so far is heartening. These are features that are actually being delivered already, too, they're not just promises.
Furthermore, Microsoft appears to be listening to feedback and requests more closely, and generally engaging more with the community online. There's even a new initiative consisting of a research panel where Microsoft will consult testers directly on how to change aspects of Windows 11.
This genuinely feels like a fresh direction for Microsoft, and a serious commitment to change Windows 11 for the better based on what the users themselves actually want.
A more thoughtful, cautious approach
(Image credit: Shutterstock)
The other key driver for optimism with Windows 11 is the way in which Microsoft is taking more care over how the operating system is developed and coded.
Not so long ago, matters were less organized and more chaotic. Cast your mind back to the introduction of Qualcomm's Snapdragon X (Arm-based) chips in Copilot+ PCs back in 2024, alongside which Microsoft brought in a new underlying platform for Windows 11 (complete with the tinkering required to support that Arm silicon). While nothing was ever officially admitted, this is a move that I believe could have at least contributed to the mess that was the 24H2 update, which was laden with a ton of (sometimes very annoying) bugs.
Whatever the case in terms of how those glitches came to be, things have changed a lot since then. Microsoft is now being a lot more cautious with its Arm and x86 strategy — Windows 11 is split into two development paths, with the 26H1 update for Arm devices, and the 26H2 update for traditional x86 PCs — and the company has switched to use a fresh approach for these annual updates.
Instead of big annual updates — the last of which was the problematic 24H2 — Microsoft is now deploying small 'enablement packages', essentially very minor bumps to a new version of Windows 11. The actual features, the meat of Windows 11 changes, are pushed out in monthly updates as and when they're ready — in sometimes quite tightly controlled, carefully paced rollouts. This more gradual drip-feed of features is a more reliable method of deployment compared to dropping a lot of stuff all at once.
In short, Microsoft has learned its lesson from the nightmarish 24H2 release, which suffered from far too many bugs, to take on a fresh new way of operating. True, there will still need to be big updates at times, when the underlying codebase of Windows 11 has to be changed (quite possibly with 27H2). But it looks like Microsoft wants to mainly stick to compact, easily applied annual updates in the main, with features pushed out elsewhere in general.
Optimism abounds — with a notable catch
(Image credit: MAYA LAB / Shutterstock)
Between the ardent push to fix Windows 11 and the better thought-out deployment of features and updates, Microsoft has come a long way, but as I mentioned before, there are caveats here.
It's worth mentioning that while the new system of continual feature deployments, rather than weighty annual feature drops, is commendable (in my opinion), the controlled rollouts of these various features have come in for some criticism. Mainly because they are so cautious in some cases that something like the Start menu revamp (the one from last year, I should clarify, not the current work) took ages for some Windows 11 users to get, and those folks found that rather frustrating.
Part of that caution is likely down to Microsoft's paranoia around bugs, and sadly, the truth is that there are still too many bugs in Windows 11, and some of them are disappointingly weird. And by disappointing, I mean odd things that just shouldn't be happening.
I only need glance back to last weekend for one such example where there was a glitch with the Recycle Bin whereby the delete confirmation dialog (when junking a file from the bin) showed the internal file name instead of the proper name. While this only applied to the dialog box — so it was hardly an important or dangerous glitch — it was confusing some people, and more to the point, this sort of thing shouldn't be happening in the release version of an operating system.
One thing I've called for in the past is a commitment from Microsoft to confirm that it's addressing its quality assurance processes, and improving bug squashing, and this is a notably missing part of the fix Windows 11 campaign. A vital part, in fact, I'd argue, for better stability going forward which is one of the big overarching goals (alongside better performance, and those crowd-pleasing feature additions).
Still, all in all, I've got to underline that right now, I'm as optimistic about Windows 11 as I've ever been. If Microsoft can tackle the bug blot on the OS landscape, and keep on listening to users — and its new research panel of testers from the community — Windows 11 could be in great shape come next year.
If you splurged on a new phone during the sales, you may be interested in signing up for a new SIM-only plan if you bought one outright, especially if you’re not 100% happy with your current provider.
Even if you didn’t buy a new phone, it can still pay to shop around for a new SIM-only plan, as you may find one that fits your needs better than your current one. You could be paying for a ton of data with your current provider that goes unused, for example. Or maybe you’d benefit from having international calls included in your monthly price.
Given how competitive the telco market is currently, providers are jostling for your attention — whether it’s generous mobile data allowances, discounts on the monthly plan fees or inclusions like international calls and texts — and it would be a good idea to take full advantage.
The best part is, unless your current plan is tied up with a mobile phone, it’s so easy to switch providers. If the promotional plan discount of the SIM-only plan you signed up has just wrapped up, you can easily swap to a different provider that’s offering its own discounted plan with next to zero hassle.
I’ve put together a list below of the best SIM-only plans I’ve spotted this EOFY across a range of use cases and budgets, with all the inclusions and discounts:
While we’ve usually spruiked the TPG plan that’s a step down from this one (50GB data for AU$17.50 per month) as the best value SIM-only deal, getting 100GB of mobile data for AU$22.50 is an outright steal, even if it’s just for the first 6 months. Unlike many of the SIM-only plans at this price range, you get access to the full Vodafone 5G network, bringing with it added benefits of extended coverage and faster download speeds. One perk also worth mentioning is the inclusion of unlimited international calls and texts to 31 destinations. Do note is that this is a 28-day plan, which means you’ll have 13 payments each year.
Total minimum cost: AU$22.50 Total cost for first year: AU$405 Ongoing yearly cost: AU$540View Deal
There are cheaper plans than this, but this entry-level offering from Swoop Mobile not only provides 30GB of mobile data, but it also uses Vodafone’s 5G and 4G networks, which is rare at this price point. You also get unlimited national calls and texts at this price.
Total minimum cost: AU$12.40 Total cost for first year: AU$223.80 Ongoing yearly cost: AU$298.80View Deal
Exetel has only a single mobile plan offering, but the brand nails the brief perfectly with a great value option on the Telstra 5G network (with speeds capped at 150Mbps). You get a generous 130GB of data each month, unlimited international calls to 15 countries including the UK and US, and the ability to bank up to 1000GB of data. And all this for just AU$40 per recharge (30 days). Do note that this plan is only available with an eSIM, so you'll first need to check if your phone is compatible.
Total minimum cost: AU$40 Total yearly cost: AU$480View Deal
Of the big 3 Aussie telcos, Vodafone has regularly provided the best value, and the mere fact that the brand made it to this list means that it can compete with MVNOs in certain price points. Vodafone is offering 50% off plan fees for the first 6 months, making the 400GB Large Plan, at less than AU$40 per month, the best high-data SIM-only plan this EOFY. To sweeten the pot further, you also get unlimited minutes to 'Zone 1' nations and 300 minutes to 'Zone 2' nations. To see which countries are available, you can learn more about international calls with Vodafone.
Total minimum cost: AU$36.50 Total cost for first year: AU$657 Ongoing yearly cost: AU$876View Deal
Lyca Mobile's Large plan has long been TechRadar’s favourite long-term expiry plan, especially now the included data has increased from 600GB to 900GB (although the price did also increase from AU$175 to AU$220 for the first 12 months). Granted, the ongoing cost after the first year is quite pricey, but you at least have the option to shop around for a different promo on a long-expiry plan afterwards. The mobile data will be provisioned in 75GB instalments each month, which can be helpful in case you accidentally use too much data in a single month. You'll also receive international minutes to 35 destinations with this plan.
Total minimum cost: AU$220 First year cost: AU$220 Ongoing yearly cost: AU$480View Deal
More of the best SIM-only plans
Keen to shop around more? Check out the most popular SIM-only plans in the widget below:
Reviewing games is part of my job, so I know what's worth your time and money if you're a PlayStation 5 gamer like me.
2026 has had some pretty excellent games arrive on PS5 already, and we're barely halfway through the year. From 007 First Light and the brilliant new verision of James Bond and globetrotting adventure that it offers, through to enormous roleplaying games like Crimson Desert in which players are still finding secrets months on from release, and from gripping horror games with genuine consequences like Directive 8020, to satisfying bricky adventures like Lego Batman: Legacy of the Dark Knight, there's so much to get into right now.
Even if these games aren't part of the wider Amazon Prime Day deals, they're still worth considering, such is their quality and the experiences they offer. Dive in and enjoy!
That's an incredible price for an ultra-thin, ultra-light portable monitor from a well-known brand. And with this price cut, I don't hesitate in calling this the best budget second display you can get in the sales.
Taking this out for a test drive, we used the screen as part of our professional IT set-up while working on desktops, working across multiple locations, and even used it to create music tracks on a Mac mini. We found it easy to deploy throughout. For a 15.6in 1080p display, there's not much we didn't like.
An excellent Prime Day discount makes this FHD portable monitor even more affordable. It's an ideal second screen for busy professionals thanks to its thin and light design. Considering the price, we thought it was a great display overall.
Scoring 4 stars in our review, we called it "a super-light, hyper-functional portable display that is great to have as an extra display for all of your tech."
After spending time trying this out across a range of workflows, we found it well-designed for business professionals who could really use more screen real estate.
Now, it's not the most feature-rich portable monitor we've ever reviewed - notable, color coverage is average, so I wouldn't recommend this as a primary screen for video and photo editing.
But it's not entirely stripped back. Highlights here include the stable integrated kickstand, single cable set-up, and VESA mountable design.
I'm seeing plenty of discounts on portable monitors for Prime Day - including a few at $50. But personally, I'd spend the extra fifteen bucks and pick up the MSI screen. Considering the big 32% discount, I think MSI's budget pick is the one to go for.
Also consider: More portable monitor deals
I genuinely love this portable monitor, and I use it every day as a second screen at work. It's thin, lightweight, hits 2.5K resolution and 180Hz refresh rates, and even comes with a protective sleeve in the box. I scored it 4.5 stars after testing.
This 15.6-inch 1080p monitor is at the budget end for Prime Day, but worth checking out - I'd expect better build quality here compared to a lot of the $50 portable monitors I'm seeing in the sales.
Prime Day is here, and one of the most popular products is, as always, TVs. I lead TechRadar's TV and home theater team, and I've worked with our dedicated deals editors and TV hardware writers to pick the best Prime Day TV deals this year.
We've got cheaper models than that, smaller models, and larger models — much larger in some cases. Here are the deals, presented in size order and price order. If you're in the UK, you can skip to those deals here.
Today's best TV deals in the US
Amazon's cheapest Prime Day TV deal is Insignia's 32-inch F20 Series Fire TV for just $69.99. The Fire TV features Full HD resolution, DTS Virtual :X Sound for impressive audio, smart capabilities with the Fire OS, and a voice remote with hands-free Alexa – all for under $100.View Deal
If you're looking for a cheap set for an extra bedroom, Amazon's Prime Day sale has the best-selling 32-inch 2-Series HD smart TV for a record-low price of $134.99. While the Amazon 2-Series TV lacks 4K resolution, it offers smart capabilities through the Fire TV experience and Amazon Alexa, providing hands-free control.View Deal
You can get the best-selling Insignia 43-inch F50 Series 4K TV for an incredible price of $119.99 — a record-low. The Insignia F50 Series TV features 4K resolution, DTS Studio Sound, smart capabilities with Fire OS, and a voice remote with hands-free Alexa, so you can use your voice to control your TV.View Deal
Easily one of the best value OLED TVs available, the LG B5 55-inch has dropped to $799.99. It's not a record-low low, but still a very good price. This is the perfect TV if you're looking for some excellent for both movies and gaming.View Deal
This brand-new version of the Amazon 55-inch Fire TV 4-Series is on sale for its lowest price yet. The mid-sized 4K display supports HDR10, delivering a sharp, clear, and vibrant image for TV shows, movies, and sports. All major streaming apps are ready to go, too, and there's voice control via Alexa. It's an all-around solid TV for the price if you need an affordable and capable display.View Deal
The latest Amazon Omni QLED is a brilliant budget TV that delivers solid picture quality and a good set of gaming features, including 4K 60Hz, Dolby Vision, and HDR10+, for an affordable price. This Prime Day discount brings the 55-inch model to its lowest-ever price of $279.99.View Deal
This Hisense U7 Series delivers top TV tech for the money in a reasonably sized display, including a bright, vibrant QLED panel with excellent contrast and a high 165Hz refresh rate for smooth images. It will excel as a TV for watching sports, streaming all your favorite shows and movies, and playing the latest games.View Deal
Samsung's super-stylish The Frame TV is always a big Prime Day hit, and this is an excellent price for the set, with its smart separate connections box, lovely frame and rich colors. And you get access to Samsung's impressive art selection, of course.View Deal
The LG C5 OLED is TechRadar's best-rated TV, while it lasts — it's getting hard to find in some sizes! Awarded five out of five stars in our review, the OLED display delivers an outstanding picture thanks to LG's Alpha 9 AI processor Gen8, impressive gaming features, and a comprehensive smart platform featuring all-new AI capabilities.View Deal
If you've been holding out for a premium World Cup TV upgrade, this deal on the Samsung S95F 55-inch might be perfect. Dropping to a record-low $1,597 at Best Buy, the S95F's bold colors, high brightness and brilliant anti-reflection screen make it a prime companion for the World Cup. View Deal
The TCL QM7K is a feature-packed mini-LED TV that over-delivers for its price range. It has great picture quality and a ton of solid gaming features. While this discount may be small, it does take the 65-inch model down to a new record-low price of $749.99. View Deal
This Prime Day deal takes the 65-inch Amazon Ember Omni Mini-LED TV down to a record-low price of $879.97. This TV delivers solid brightness and contrast, along with bold colors, and a ready-to-use, out-of-the-box sports mode that lets you watch sports with minimal setup. It also offers a robust selection of gaming features, including 4K, 144Hz, VRR, ALLM, and Dolby Vision support.View Deal
Samsung's S90F OLED TV is one of our best-rated OLED TVs, and it's down to $1,397.99, thanks to a $1,000 discount. The S90F OLED TV delivers an outstanding picture, thanks to the quantum dot OLED technology and Samsung's NQ4 AI Gen3 processor. You're also getting extensive gaming features and Samsung's impressive Tizen operating system.View Deal
The LG C5 is the ultimate all-around TV, delivering excellent performance for movies, gaming and sports with a full suite of features and superb picture quality. The 65-inch model has dropped to $1,199.99 at Amazon and while this isn't a record-low, it's the cheapest it's been since February. View Deal
The 65-inch TCL QM8K has dropped to an excellent price for Prime Day, though it's not quite a record-low. If you're looking for a TV for the World Cup, the QM8K delivers the bright, punchy picture quality you need, plus a solid built-in sound system. View Deal
When you get a bigger-screen TV, you want strong image quality to make the most of it, and the Hisense U7 Series provides that. It's ideal for watching sports thanks to its bright images and solid motion handling, and has great current-gen gaming features. 75 inches of good-quality TV viewing for under $1,000? This is a Prime Day bargain.View Deal
The Samsung QN90F is our ultimate TV for sport thanks to its brightness, glare-free screen and excellent motion handling, making it a perfect World Cup TV. Stock is either running low or gone across various retailers, but you can still get the 75-inch model for this great price, considering what a premium TV it is.View Deal
Here is an Amazon exclusive deal on a massive display. You can get TCL's 98-inch QM64L Series for $1,799.99, which is an incredible price for a TV of this size. A truly great budget mini-LED TV, the TCL QM64L delivers vibrant picture quality and solid gaming features for a price that won't break the bank.View Deal
Today's best TV deals in the UK
The perfect gaming screen upgrade ahead of GTA 6 — fantastic OLED image quality, with full HDMI 2.1 support on all four HDMI ports, plus a great smart TV system. This is an unbeatable price for a TV this good at this size.View Deal
A detailed TV from a reliable brand, with good smart TV software that provides all the major streaming services. This is probably the best mid-size budget TV you can get during this year's UK Prime Day sale.View Deal
LG's best value OLED hits its lowest ever price with this Prime Day deal, with the 48-inch LG B5 hitting £567, beating the previous cheapest price by £60. Perfect for bedroom gaming, the B5 has a full suite of gaming features and delivers smooth gameplay. View Deal
This is an incredible price for a 55-inch OLED TV that's as good as this. The S84F is basically the same as the Samsung S85F, which we gave 4.5 stars to — this cheaper version doesn't have Filmmaker Mode and lacks some minor lifestyle features, but has all the essentials. It's a bargain.View Deal
Still looking for that TV upgrade for the World Cup? The Samsung QN90F is our pick for the best TV for sports and the 55-inch model has dropped to £809.10, which is the cheapest it's ever been. With a glare-free screen and solid brightness, it's ideal for bright rooms, too. View Deal
The LG C5 covers all the bases, with OLED picture quality and razor-sharp performance for movies, sports and gaming. There's a reason it tops most of our best-of lists. The 55-inch model has dropped to £977.10 at Amazon, a new record-low price. View Deal
The Samsung S95F delivers superb picture quality, with high brightness, vibrant colors, and effective reflection handling thanks to its anti-glare screen — it really is a fantastic World Cup TV upgrade. This deal takes the 55-inch model down to £1,237.50, a record-low for this phenomenal five-star OLED. View Deal
This is essentially the same TV as the TCL C6K, which we rate as the best cheap TV available right now — and it's better value than most TVs that actually aimed to be budget sets in the first place. The picture quality feels far more premium than the price — it's a great low-price big-screen upgrade.View Deal
This TV is a great price, given the premium mini-LED tech inside, and the support for 4K 120Hz gaming on new-gen consoles. It's a big, bright, dazzling premium TV.View Deal
Here at TechRadar, we test dozens of pairs of headphones every year. And while we've been won over by many an ultra-pricey set of cans, we also love a cheap pair of headphones that punches above its price tag. This article is dedicated to showcasing these wallet-friendly wonders. I asked TechRadar's audio specialists which headphones they'd recommend to buyers on a budget, and you'll find their suggestions below.
If it's true wireless in-ears you're after, you'd struggle to do better than the Nothing Ear (a) buds, which Audio Editor Becky Scarrott awarded a perfect five stars, calling them "a resounding home run" for the British startup and praising the noise cancellation, sound quality and battery life in particular. In the current Amazon Prime Day deals, they're unbeatable value at under $55 / £50.
In the over-ear arena, standouts are the CMF Pro and the 1More Sonoflow Pro HQ51, both of which earned 4.5 stars in our tests. The former were put through their paces by Becky, who was impressed with the "superb" sound quality in general, and was pleasantly surprised to discover "the sort of... personal sound profile curation [we're] more used to seeing in headphones much higher up the food chain". The latter were reviewed by our review's team's resident headphone specialist Harry Padoan, who praised the "adept audio, noise-crushing ANC and eye-catching design". Both are even better value than usual right now, too, thanks to those Prime (and rival-Prime) deals.
Read on for more budget-maximizing buys — and hit the 'View details' button for a summary of what we thought of them in our tests, plus links to the full reviews.
Airbnb scams have surged 30x since 2023, including a sharp rise this year
Criminals hijack legitimate host accounts to to trick holidaymakers
Staying safe isn't so straightforward as threats evolve
Airbnb-related scam activity has increased 30x since the first half of 2023, according to new research from Saily and NordStellar, confirming that cybercriminals continue to go after holidaymakers seeking the best deals amid rising prices.
The report ultimately concludes that attackers are now targeting the trust built by larger platforms, saving them from having to build new identities from scratch.
And to top it all off, the nature of scams is also changing, as instead of using suspicious websites to obtain victim payments or information, criminals are now targeting legitimate Airbnb host accounts which have spent years amassing positive reviews and high ratings.
Exploiting legitimate accounts and hijacking trust
While the end goal remains high volumes of vulnerable consumers, scammers have added an extra layer of victim in their pipeline. Verified Airbnb hosts are now valuable assets for criminals because they already have identity verifications, positive reviews, booking histories, years of activity and established credibility.
Once the verified account is compromised, attackers can then go on to scam higher volumes of unsuspecting victims by posting – and charging for – fake property listings.
“Travelers are getting better at spotting obvious scams,” Saily Head of Product Matas Cenys said. “Criminals know this, so they are increasingly trying to steal trust instead of building fake trust from scratch.”
Where this type of attack differs from others, though, is that the victims never leave the platform. Rather than falling victim to phishing attacks and being redirected to malicious external sites, they interact fully with supposed legitimate hosts on the Airbnb platform.
While Airbnb attacks have seen a 30x increase in around three years and a sharp rise in the last year alone, they reflect a much broader trend of attackers compromising existing trusted accounts.
The recent ramp-up in attacks could also be tied to the summer season, with holidaymakers looking to book last-minute deals in the run-up to the summer season. Urgency and pressure to keep costs low also adds to criminals’ success.
“Everything looks normal until they arrive at their destination and discover the accommodation never existed," Cenys added.
How to protect yourself from booking scams
Saily is recommending that all communication stays within the booking platform and that customers avoid payment methods suggested outside of official channels. Unusually attractive listings in high-demand destinations could also be taken with a pinch of salt, and savvy shoppers may choose to reverse image search a property to double check its authenticity.
“As travel booking becomes increasingly digital, trust becomes one of the most valuable currencies in the travel ecosystem,” Cenys warned.
As for abusing victim trust, researchers also argue that AI has aided attacks by allowing criminals to produce better fake listings more quickly.
More generally, Airbnb revealed that two in five Americans have fallen victim for an online scam, with the average loss totalling nearly $2,000. The company has introduced measures to remind its users how to avoid scams, including introducing identity verification and reminders not to leave the platform, but account takeovers can still slip under the radar.
Airbnb also holds guest payments until 24 hours after check-in to ensure that everything is as described. Anti-fraud tech also prevented around 265,000 suspicious listings from appearing on the platform in 2025, the company boasted.
The company posted a comprehensive eight-step list of how to avoid scams on its platform online, calling out pressure tactics and unusual deals.
I've been reviewing gaming headsets for nearly a decade now, and have seen a lot of them come and go. While a lot of my favorites are long gone now, there's a great big handful of my top picks that you can still get in 2026 — and I've got 15 of my best below that are definitely worth your money, no matter your budget or platform.
Yes, a few of these are premium offerings which do you require a bit of investment — the Audeze Maxwell 2 is the best for pure sound quality, the SteelSeries Arctis Nova Elite offers the complete gaming headset experience — but I also love a few cheaper options which are enormously good value for money, which I also still use in particular scenarios, such as the SteelSeries Arctis Nova 1 or Razer Kaira X.
Regardless of whether these are among the Amazon Prime Day deals officially or not, you might find discounts on them — the prices of these bits of gear fluctuate wildly at the best of times — and even if you don't, I think they're absolutely worth investing in if you're in need of a set of audio-givers.
Senao built a full Intel Xeon server that lives inside your PCIe slot
38 Xeon cores and 64GB RAM on a single network card
Dual NVMe SSDs, 64GB RAM, and 200Gbps — all on one card
Senao SmartNIC SX906 was one of the more quietly remarkable exhibits on display at Computex 2026 — a PCIe card which functions less like a network adapter and more like a fully equipped server that somehow forgot it was supposed to fit inside a slot.
Built around Intel's Xeon 6 SoC processor in the Granite Rapids-D architecture, the card delivers up to 200Gbps of network performance from a dual-slot form factor.
It weighs 1kg, measures 266 x 98.4 x 40.6mm, and draws power through a PCIe edge finger and a 16-pin 12VHPWR connector — the same connector that feeds power-hungry graphics cards.
More server than network card
This device comes with three processor configurations, including the Xeon 6523P-B, 6553P-B, and the flagship 6563P-B.
The Xeon 6523P-B brings 24 cores running at 2.5GHz with a 295W power envelope, the 6553P-B steps up to 36 cores at 2.6GHz, consuming 355W, and the 6563P-B pushes to 38 cores at 2.4GHz — also at 355W.
All three SKUs support up to 64GB of 4-channel DDR5-4600 ECC memory, carry two M.2 2280 NVMe SSD slots, and include up to 128GB of eMMC storage for good measure.
The 36 and 38 core variants go further still, adding a media transcode accelerator that makes them considerably more capable than the entry-level configuration.
Network connectivity runs through dual 100G QSFP28 ports, though the 24-core SKU is capped at 100GbE total throughput while the two larger variants unlock the full 200GbE.
An ASPEED AST2600 BMC oversees out-of-band management through OpenBMC, with an AST1060 controller handling Intel Platform Firmware Resilience — security infrastructure that belongs in a data centre rack, not a PCIe slot.
A card that refuses to stay in its lane
The I/O configuration is where the SX906 stops making conventional sense entirely.
Alongside the expected networking interfaces, the SX906 carries a MiniDP display output, an RJ45 1GbE management port, and a USB3.0 Type-C port.
That Type-C port is functional enough to charge a smartphone on a workbench while the card simultaneously processes network security workloads at 200Gbps.
A second Type-C console port and two PCIe Gen5 x8 MCIO connectors expose 24 PCIe Gen5 lanes for further expansion, giving engineers considerable room to extend the card beyond its base capabilities.
The SX906 runs Ubuntu 22.04 or 24.04 natively and supports TPM2.0 Secure Boot, completing a security profile that most standalone servers would be proud to claim.
Whether it carves out a clear commercial niche beyond AI edge deployments and specialised network security remains an open question.
What is harder to argue with, however, is that Senao has packed an entire server's worth of infrastructure into something that slots into a PCIe bay.
Instant photography takes on a very different form these days. It used to (and ultimately still does) mean a photo you take that’s instantly printed out on paper. Realistically, it means a photo you take on your smartphone in seconds — and it’s something we all take for granted. Just open the camera on a smartphone, point, shoot, done.
However, in many ways, the instant nature of smartphone photography afforded by the best camera phones can remove any creative nature of framing the perfect shot.
This is a thought I had recently at least when heading over to Europe on holiday, and one I wanted to amend by taking a Fujifilm Instax mini 11 in my carry on. In my mind I couldn’t have made a better choice.
The very epitome of point-and-shoot photography, the Instax mini 13 couldn’t be easier to master. Press a button to pop out the lens barrel, frame your subject in the viewfinder and hit the shutter button. A couple of seconds later, your photo is printed on photo paper to hold onto forever. Best of all, this latest model features a self-timer for those all-important selfies.View Deal
I’ve long been on the fence about instant cameras and a separate camera from my phone in general. I’ve made the trip to Europe several times before to visit my family, and in the past I’ve taken my OM System OM-D E-M10 MKIV.
However, the last time I took it, I never used it (as much as I told myself I would), as the added bulk of carrying around lenses and the camera body itself just proved too much of an inconvenience for me. Considering my iPhone 15 Pro could take decent pictures within seconds, I didn’t feel the need to keep it close by.
This year that all changed. While my iPhone was still an undeniably useful companion on my recent trip — I took well over 1,000 photos — I knew this time that I wanted to capture more memorable pics that would actually get looked at again (this is a safe space; we can all admit we never actually look back at photos we take).
I’d never used an instant camera such as the Instax mini before, and I have to admit there was a very slight learning curve to adjust to a new way of taking photos. And that was half of the fun for me — because I knew I only had a finite number of sheets to print on. I had to make my pictures count!
Using the Instax mini meant I had to be more considerate when framing a shot, which fortunately was super simple using the viewfinder. It might look like a tiny window (because it is), but whatever I saw through it is what came out on paper.
And hey, there really was something magical and special about waiting for the image to develop — how would it look? Did the colours come out ok? Did anyone walk into the shot as I pressed the shutter?
When my partner and I returned home, we made a much more conscious effort to look at the pictures I’d taken to determine what we’d keep and what we’d get rid of. Of the photos we kept, we’re going to frame them at some point at home. We haven’t quite decided how just yet, but we know we will.
Considering I’ve only ever printed a handful of photos from my iPhone, I’d call that a win for Fujifilm. And at AU$119 for the mini 13, it’s a small price to pay for photos you’ll actually come back to.
The art TV market is more crowded than ever before, and even though Samsung started it with the Frame TV and later expanded with the Frame Pro, there’s been Hisense’s Canvas TV for a while, and the most recent addition is from Amazon.
Amazon’s Ember Artline Fire TV might only come in two sizes, but it packs a punch in two key areas compared to Samsung’s Frame TV: it comes with a frame that completes the effect of looking like a true piece of art out of the box, and you don’t need to pay for a subscription for art to show off.
Best of all, though, it’s down to its lowest price for Prime Day 2026, with Amazon dropping the 55-inch to just $699.99 (originally $899.99) and the 65-inch to $899.99 (originally $1,099.99) — that’s a 22% and 18% discount, respectively. You also get to pick between 10 frame options.
Today's best Amazon Ember Artline Fire TV deal
Amazon's 55-inch Ember Artline Fire TV is at a new all-time low price for Prime Day 2026, and comes with a bezel frame in the box. Plus, you get more than 2,000 pieces of artwork for free and the Fire TV interface for easy access to major streaming services.View Deal
Just like the 55-inch, the largest Amazon Ember Artline Fire TV is at the lowest price ever for Prime Day 2026. Right now, the 65-inch is $899.99 and comes with access to over 2,000 pieces of artwork and a frame in the box.View Deal
It’s a pretty stellar Prime Day deal for an art or lifestyle TV. The Ember Artline, in either the 55-inch or 65-inch size, is a 4K QLED TV finished with a matte coating. And yes, the latter is pretty similar to how the Frame TV is finished, helping make whatever art you’re displaying look more like actual artwork.
Amazon also supports the HDR10+ standard here, along with Dolby Vision, and it runs Fire TV out of the box.
The latter means you’ll have access to all the major streaming services such as Disney+, Netflix, and Apple TV, assuming you have the logins, and you can control it all with Alexa+.
It’s also a thin TV that won’t protrude from the wall all that much if you decide to hang it, as the Ember Artline is just 1.5 inches thick. Out of the box, you get access to over 2,000 pieces of artwork to display for free, and you can upload your own photos.
At $200 off for both the 55-inch and 65-inch models, there hasn’t been a better time to score the Ember Artline than Prime Day 2026. Of course, Samsung’s The Frame models are seeing discounts of their own this Prime Day.
The Frame Pro also boasts a QLED Mini LED display, and has a wireless One Connect Box for a cleaner look when fully set up.
Samsung's super-stylish The Frame TV is always a big Prime Day hit, and this is an excellent price for the set, with its smart separate connections box, lovely frame and rich colors. And you can get access to Samsung's impressive art selection, of course.View Deal
Samsung's 2026 Frame Pro levels up its classic art TV formula with a Neo QLED display finished with a matte coating, a wireless One Connect box, and a slim-fit wall mount included in the box. Right now, you can save $230 on the 55-inch size at Amazon.View Deal
DR Congo's return to the FIFA World Cup has been nothing short of magical. Fresh off their first-ever tournament point and goal, the Leopards now face Group K leaders Colombia at Guadalajara Stadium in a fascinating clash of styles.
After failing to qualify in 2022, Los Cafeteros were clinical in their opening match against debutants Uzbekistan, securing a 3-1 victory. Second-half strikes from Luis Diaz and Jaminton Campaz sealed a comfortable win. Nestor Lorenzo's men will look to carry that momentum forward and book their place in the knockout stage with a victory over DR Congo, ranked 46th in the world when the tournament began.
Yoane Wissa's equalizer in first-half stoppage-time earned the Leopards a memorable 1-1 draw against mighty Portugal. Sebastien Desabre's men are not to be taken lightly – a lesson Portugal learned the hard way. Can Aaron Wan-Bissaka, Wissa, and Cedric Bakambu conjure an unlikely upset and throw Group K wide open? Real Betis forward Bakambu excelled up front – what price a first win for the side who lost all three games by an aggregate 14-0 the last time they appeared in the tournament 52 years ago.
So, read on as we show you exactly how to watch Colombia vs DR Congo for free from anywhere in the FIFA World Cup 2026.
How to watch Colombia vs DR Congo for free
Colombia vs DR Congo is available to watch for free in multiple countries, including the UK, Australia, Brazil, Belgium, Ireland, Netherlands, Switzerland and Turkey.
Abroad? Can't access your free stream? Unblock your free World Cup stream with Norton VPN — more on that below.
Use a VPN to watch Colombia vs DR Congo live streams
It’s the World Cup, and if you’re traveling, you might discover your usual Colombia vs DR Congo stream is suddenly unavailable due to geo-restrictions.
Don’t worry, that’s exactly where a VPN can help. A virtual private network lets you connect to servers around the world so you can securely access your usual World Cup coverage as if you were back home.
Watch your free World Cup stream without limits. Norton VPN delivers fast, secure connections with global servers, so you can stream from anywhere with ease.
💰 60-day money-back guarantee 🔓 Unlocks World Cup streams
Don’t miss a second. Stream the World Cup from anywhere with total confidence.View Deal
How to watch Colombia vs DR Congo in the US
US viewers can watch Colombia vs DR Congo on FS1 and Telemundo (Spanish comms).
Those looking for a streaming service instead can watch Colombia vs DR Congo on Fox One (3-day free trial). Telemundo is available via Peacock as well.
Visiting the US from the UK? You can still watch your World Cup stream for free thanks to Norton VPN (try for 60 days).
How to watch Colombia vs DR Congo in the UK
UK customers are in luck as they can stream Colombia vs DR Congo for free on ITV. Live coverage is on ITV1 and ITVX.
You require a TV license and a valid UK postcode for an account (e.g. SE1 7PB).
Norton VPN can unlock your stream if you're abroad today.
How to watch Colombia vs DR Congo in Australia
(Image credit: free)
Colombia vs DR Congo will be shown for free in Australia on SBS On Demand.
The streaming platform has every game of the tournament for free, making it the perfect place for your World Cup viewing.
Traveling for work or on holiday? A VPN like Norton VPN can help unlock your free stream.
How to watch Colombia vs DR Congo in Canada
(Image credit: Other)
In Canada, TSN will be broadcasting Colombia vs DR Congo.
You can live stream via the TSN+ streaming platform, which costs CA$8 per month or CA$80 per year.
Outside of Canada? Use Norton VPN whilst you're traveling away from home to unlock your stream.
Colombia vs DR Congo: Match Information
What time does Colombia vs DR Congo start?
Colombia vs DR Congo kicks-off at 10pm ET on Tuesday, June 23. That's 3am BST / 12pm AEST on Wednesday, June 24.
Defenders: Davinson Sanchez (Galatasaray), Jhon Lucumi (Bologna), Yerry Mina (Cagliari), Willer Ditta (Cruz Azul), Daniel Munoz (Crystal Palace), Santiago Arias (Independiente), Johan Mojica (Mallorca), Deiver Machado (Nantes)
Midfielders: Richard Rios (Benfica), Jefferson Lerma (Crystal Palace), Kevin Castano (River Plate), Juan Camilo Portilla (Athletico Paranaense), Gustavo Puerta (Racing de Santander), Jhon Arias (Palmeiras), Jorge Carrascal (Flamengo), Juan Fernando Quintero (River Plate), James Rodriguez (Minnesota United), Jaminton Campaz (Rosario Central)
Forwards: Juan Camilo Hernandez (Real Betis), Luis Diaz (Bayern Munich), Luis Suarez (Sporting), Carlos Andres Gomez (Vasco da Gama), Jhon Cordoba (Krasnodar)
Of course, most broadcasters have streaming services that you can access through mobile apps or via your phone's browser.
You can also stay up-to-date with all of the key World Cup moments on the official social media channels on X/Twitter (@FIFAWorldCup), Instagram (@FIFAWorldCup), TikTok (@FIFAWorldCup) and YouTube (@FIFA).
We test and review VPN services in the context of legal recreational uses. For example:1. Accessing a service from another country (subject to the terms and conditions of that service).2. Protecting your online security and strengthening your online privacy when abroad.We do not support or condone the illegal or malicious use of VPN services. Consuming pirated content that is paid-for is neither endorsed nor approved by Future Publishing.
A new NYT Strands puzzle appears at midnight each day for your time zone – which means that some people are always playing 'today's game' while others are playing 'yesterday's'. If you're looking for Tuesday's puzzle instead then click here: NYT Strands hints and answers for Tuesday, June 23 (game #842).
Strands is the NYT's latest word game after the likes of Wordle, Spelling Bee and Connections – and it's great fun. It can be difficult, though, so read on for my Strands hints.
Want more word-based fun? Then check out my NYT Connections today and Quordle today pages for hints and answers for those games, and Marc's Wordle today page for the original viral word game.
SPOILER WARNING: Information about NYT Strands today is below, so don't read on if you don't want to know the answers.
NYT Strands today (game #843) - hint #1 - today's theme
What is the theme of today's NYT Strands?
• Today's NYT Strands theme is… Just chill
NYT Strands today (game #843) - hint #2 - clue words
Play any of these words to unlock the in-game hints system.
STEEL
MOVE
ZERO
MUCH
TEAR
BARD
NYT Strands today (game #843) - hint #3 - spangram letters
How many letters are in today's spangram?
• Spangram has 15 letters
NYT Strands today (game #843) - hint #4 - spangram position
What are two sides of the board that today's spangram touches?
First side: left, 5th row
Last side: right, 5th row
Right, the answers are below, so DO NOT SCROLL ANY FURTHER IF YOU DON'T WANT TO SEE THEM.
NYT Strands today (game #843) - the answers
(Image credit: New York Times)
The answers to today's Strands, game #843, are…
BEER
SELTZER
KOMBUCHA
JUICE
WATER
SODA
SPANGRAM: BEVERAGECOOLERS
My rating: Easy
My score: Perfect
The weather is scorching hot in the UK, so my mind automatically went to words connected with staying cool.
However, I realized after spotting BEER that we were instead looking for cooling beverages — or BEVERAGECOOLERS according to the lengthy spangram.
My cooling beverage of choice — iced tea — didn’t make the cut, but as a second best I’d go with a KOMBUCHA, which is a bit of an upgrade on a regular tea drink but part of the same family, like a distant fancy auntie.
Yesterday's NYT Strands answers (Tuesday, June 23, game #842)
FOOD
BLOCK
ARMOR
BUILDING
PORTAL
STORAGE
TOOL
SPANGRAM: MINECRAFT
What is NYT Strands?
Strands is the NYT's not-so-new-any-more word game, following Wordle and Connections. It's now a fully fledged member of the NYT's games stable that has been running for a year and which can be played on the NYT Games site on desktop or mobile.
I've got a full guide to how to play NYT Strands, complete with tips for solving it, so check that out if you're struggling to beat it each day.
A new Quordle puzzle appears at midnight each day for your time zone – which means that some people are always playing 'today's game' while others are playing 'yesterday's'. If you're looking for Tuesday's puzzle instead then click here: Quordle hints and answers for Tuesday, June 22 (game #1610).
Quordle was one of the original Wordle alternatives and is still going strong now more than 1,400 games later. It offers a genuine challenge, though, so read on if you need some Quordle hints today – or scroll down further for the answers.
Enjoy playing word games? You can also check out my NYT Connections today and NYT Strands today pages for hints and answers for those puzzles, while Marc's Wordle today column covers the original viral word game.
SPOILER WARNING: Information about Quordle today is below, so don't read on if you don't want to know the answers.
Quordle today (game #1612) - hint #1 - Vowels
How many different vowels are in Quordle today?
• The number of different vowels in Quordle today is 4*.
* Note that by vowel we mean the five standard vowels (A, E, I, O, U), not Y (which is sometimes counted as a vowel too).
Quordle today (game #1612) - hint #2 - repeated letters
Do any of today's Quordle answers contain repeated letters?
• The number of Quordle answers containing a repeated letter today is 2.
Quordle today (game #1612) - hint #3 - uncommon letters
Do the letters Q, Z, X or J appear in Quordle today?
• No. None of Q, Z, X or J appear among today's Quordle answers.
What letters do today's Quordle answers start with?
• S
• E
• G
• N
Right, the answers are below, so DO NOT SCROLL ANY FURTHER IF YOU DON'T WANT TO SEE THEM.
Quordle today (game #1612) - the answers
(Image credit: Merriam-Webster)
The answers to today's Quordle, game #1612, are…
SOBER
ECLAT
GOOSE
NINNY
After a year-long win streak I’ve been having a really rough time of Quordle recently and lost again today — another case of having too many options and picking the wrong words.
I think after a successful run I might have to change my start words again. I’ll consult Claude and see what it suggests, seeing as it knows everything!
Daily Sequence today (game #1612) - the answers
(Image credit: Merriam-Webster)
The answers to today's Quordle Daily Sequence, game #1612, are…
A new NYT Connections puzzle appears at midnight each day for your time zone – which means that some people are always playing 'today's game' while others are playing 'yesterday's'. If you're looking for Tuesday's puzzle instead then click here: NYT Connections hints and answers for Tuesday, June 23 (game #1108).
Good morning! Let's play Connections, the NYT's clever word game that challenges you to group answers in various categories. It can be tough, so read on if you need Connections hints.
What should you do once you've finished? Why, play some more word games of course. I've also got daily Strands hints and answers and Quordle hints and answers articles if you need help for those too, while Marc's Wordle today page covers the original viral word game.
SPOILER WARNING: Information about NYT Connections today is below, so don't read on if you don't want to know the answers.
NYT Connections today (game #1109) - today's words
(Image credit: New York Times)
Today's NYT Connections words are…
HUMPTY DUMPTY
TOASTER
PINK FLOYD
MONEY
KOOL-AID MAN
HELTER SKELTER
CHINA
RUSH
CHICK FLICK
DEADPOOL
LUGGAGE
GENESIS
CLIFFORD
MUMBO
JUMBO
KING CRIMSON
MR. KRABS
NYT Connections today (game #1109) - hint #1 - group hints
What are some clues for today's NYT Connections groups?
YELLOW: Adult groups of the 1970s
BLUE: They share a color in common
GREEN: Nuptial presents
PURPLE: Sounds similar
Need more clues?
We're firmly in spoiler territory now, but read on if you want to know what the four theme answers are for today's NYT Connections puzzles…
NYT Connections today (game #1109) - hint #2 - group answers
What are the answers for today's NYT Connections groups?
YELLOW: PROG BANDS
BLUE: RED CHARACTERS
GREEN: CLASSIC WEDDING GIFTS
PURPLE: RHYMING COMPOUND WORDS
Right, the answers are below, so DO NOT SCROLL ANY FURTHER IF YOU DON'T WANT TO SEE THEM.
NYT Connections today (game #1109) - the answers
(Image credit: New York Times)
The answers to today's Connections, game #1109, are…
YELLOW: PROG BANDS GENESIS, KING CRIMSON, PINK FLOYD, RUSH
BLUE: RED CHARACTERS CLIFFORD, DEADPOOL, KOOL-AID MAN, MR. KRABS
Not being familiar with the work of KOOL-AID MAN put me at a disadvantage today and was the reason for my single mistake.
While I knew that CLIFFORD of Big Red Dog fame, DEADPOOL and MR. KRABS favored the color red. I was less certain about the fourth, so selected HUMPTY DUMPTY in the belief that he favored a thick red belt across his eggy mid-riff. Fortunately, I corrected my error at the next opportunity.
I am kicking myself that I didn’t see the RHYMING COMPOUND WORDS — I did fleetingly think that they could all be album titles by the yellow group of PROG BANDS but went for the CLASSIC WEDDING GIFTS instead.
Yesterday's NYT Connections answers (Tuesday, June 23, game #1108)
YELLOW: DANCE STYLES FOXTROT, MODERN, SWING, TAP
GREEN: IN A MONOPOLY BOX DEED, HOTEL, MONEY, TOKEN
PURPLE: THINGS WITH MANTLES/ MANTELS EARTH, EMPEROR, FIREPLACE, YANKEES
What is NYT Connections?
NYT Connections is one of several increasingly popular word games made by the New York Times. It challenges you to find groups of four items that share something in common, and each group has a different difficulty level: green is easy, yellow a little harder, blue often quite tough and purple usually very difficult.
On the plus side, you don't technically need to solve the final one, as you'll be able to answer that one by a process of elimination. What's more, you can make up to four mistakes, which gives you a little bit of breathing room.
It's a little more involved than something like Wordle, however, and there are plenty of opportunities for the game to trip you up with tricks. For instance, watch out for homophones and other word games that could disguise the answers.
It's playable for free via the NYT Games site on desktop or mobile.
My daughter is heading into her second year at Penn State this fall, and she needed a proper desktop setup for her dorm room without taking up half her desk or blowing the back-to-school budget. A mini PC made a lot more sense than a bulky tower — something capable enough to handle coursework, video calls, and the inevitable browser tab overload of university life, but compact enough to tuck behind a monitor and forget about. After studying all the options, this is the one I landed on.
This is one of the few machines at this price that doesn’t feel like a compromise. A 10-core Intel processor, a fast PCIe 4.0 SSD, 16GB of RAM, and triple 4K display output — in a chassis that fits in the palm of your hand.
Today's top mini PC deal
A proper desktop PC that happens to be the size of a thick paperback book. It’s powered by the Intel Core i5-14450HX — a 10-core chip that outperforms older i7 chips used in many office machines — paired with 16GB of DDR4 RAM and a 512GB PCIe 4.0 NVMe SSD that loads apps and files noticeably faster than the budget SSDs in most similarly priced machines. Connect up to three 4K monitors simultaneously via HDMI, DisplayPort, and USB-C. Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.2, dual Ethernet ports, six USB 3.2 ports, and Windows 11 Home pre-installed. Upgradeable to 64GB RAM and 4TB storage across dual M.2 slots.View Deal
The Intel Core i5-14450HX is the genuine headline here. Most mini PCs at this price use low-power mobile chips designed for thin laptops — efficient, but not particularly fast. The i5-14450HX is different: it’s a 10-core (2 performance + 8 efficiency), 16-thread HX-series chip with a 4.8GHz boost clock, drawn from Intel’s laptop gaming platform. Armchair Arcade’s benchmarks put its Geekbench 6 single-core score at 2,510 and multi-core at 10,324 — the single-core figure is essentially identical to a desktop Core i7-12700, which retailed for several hundred dollars on its own when it launched.
The 512GB PCIe 4.0 NVMe SSD is the other spec worth highlighting. Budget mini PCs typically ship with older PCIe 3.0 or even SATA SSDs. PCIe 4.0 doubles the theoretical bandwidth, and in practice means noticeably faster boot times, quicker app launches, and snappier file transfers — the kind of difference you feel every time you sit down at the machine. The dual M.2 slots mean you can add a second SSD later without replacing anything, and the RAM is user-upgradeable to 64GB across two SO-DIMM slots.
Triple 4K display support is a feature most people wouldn’t expect at this price. Via the HDMI, DisplayPort, and USB-C outputs simultaneously, the Hyper H2 can drive three 4K@60Hz monitors — the kind of setup that day traders, developers, financial analysts, and video editors typically associate with much more expensive workstations. One reviewer specifically called out how well it handles multi-screen productivity workflows with sustained workloads, noting it’s where the i5-14450HX platform genuinely shines.
The dual Ethernet ports are an unusual feature at this price point and are worth calling out for the right buyer. Two RJ45 ports mean you can simultaneously connect to two separate networks — useful for IT professionals, home lab setups, network-attached storage configurations, or simply keeping work and personal network traffic separated. Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2 handle wireless connectivity.
The chassis itself is compact — small enough to mount behind a monitor via VESA, sit on a desk without taking up meaningful space, or pack in a bag for travel. Passive ventilation handles thermal conditions adequately for everyday workloads, though sustained all-core CPU loads will push the machine toward its thermal limits, a common characteristic of high-performance chips in compact chassis.
One honest caveat: integrated Intel UHD graphics are not a GPU replacement. For casual media playback, video calls, and 4K display output, they’re perfectly adequate, but demanding 3D workloads and modern titles at high settings are beyond what integrated graphics can deliver. This is a productivity and everyday-use machine first — and a very good one — not a gaming rig.
To me, the Kamrui Hyper H2 is the kind of deal that’s hard to walk past if you’re in the market for a compact, capable everyday desktop. Check out more options in our guide to the best mini PCs.
Also consider
Our top pick overall, the M6 Ultra is suitable for just about anyone who wants a mini PC for work and study. In our review we called it an "affordable mini PC that promises performance for office users, creators, students, and even the mid-level gaming community."View Deal
The NucBox K13 is a superb mini PC for those that want more performance. It comes equipped with an Intel Core Ultra 7 256V processor, 16GB of LPDDR5X memory, and a 512GB PCIe 4.0 SSD. Interestingly, it boasts AI acceleration up to 115 TOPS, dual USB4 ports, 5G Ethernet, and support for triple 4K displays. In our review we called it a "thoughtfully engineered slice of modern computing." View Deal
The Rmatamini P99S comes has an Intel Xeon E5-2698v3 processor, GeForce GTS450 2G, 16GB DDR3 RAM and 256GB SSD.View Deal
The Amazon Kindle Colorsoft is an outstanding color ereader — in our review, we awarded it four and a half stars, calling the scrolling and zooming "kind of amazing" and declaring it "the fastest, smoothest e-reader [we'd] ever used, whether reading in color or just black and white text".
Right now, the standard version has a tasty 36% discount in the Amazon Prime Day sales (and the Colorsoft Signature version, with twice as much storage, has 21% off), but before you hit that buy button, maybe you want to check if this is truly the best ereader for your needs? If so, you've come to the right place.
If you're intent on a color ereader, the biggest competitor is probably Kobo. At regular prices, the Kobo Clara Colour would have the budget-friendly edge over the Colorsoft, but it's pricier right now. However, if you're in the market for something more feature-rich, check out the Kobo Libra Colour. This one earned a perfect five stars in our review, and it has the edge over the standard Colorsoft because you can use it for scribbling down notes as well as reading (although you will need to purchase a stylus). If you wanted to do that on a Kindle, you'd need the Colorsoft Scribe,which is — spoiler — the priciest option in this guide, by a significant margin, and almost the same price as buying a Kindle, a Kindle Scribe and a Kindle Colorsoft separately.
Another option is the Boox Go Color 7 Gen II, but we'd struggle to recommend it because the display just isn't quite up to scratch — it has a yellow tinge, and the text lacks sharpness, which is unforgivable given the high price. Read on for the best prices on all the key color ereader options, or hop to the bottom of the page for a specs comparison table, so you can see how they match up.
The gaming monitor market is filled with high-quality displays that offer enough features to provide the most immersive gaming experience. OLED monitors are right at the forefront of monitors in achieving the latter, with exceptional deep black levels thanks to their high contrast ratio.
It's not all just about the panel type, though. The display resolution, refresh rate, response times, and brightness levels all play a significant part in allowing monitors to blossom, and all of those aspects also determine pricing (outside of potential market condition changes).
That's exactly where the LG UltraGear 45GX950A-B comes into play. It's a 5K2K ultrawide OLED monitor, which means its display resolution is 5120x2160, with even sharper image quality than a 4K display. It's easily one of the best gaming monitors in 2026, and is the kind of monitor that would define an 'ultimate endgame' gaming experience in terms of visuals.
Despite the obvious and eventual GPU upgrade I'll have to make when using a 5K monitor, it hasn't stopped me from keeping my eyes peeled for it, particularly whenever it receives a significant price drop.
The LG UltraGear 45GX950A-B is one of the most immersive gaming monitors on the market, and arguably the best OLED ultrawide money can buy, with an immersive 800R curvature and 5K2K resolution,View Deal
Expand your gaming immersion with the LG UltraGear 45GX950A-B 5K2K OLED ultrawide, ready to completely enhance gaming experiences across the board, thanks to its 800R curvature and 5K display resolution.View Deal
Having used the LG UltraGear 45GS95QE OLED ultrawide — which is very similar to the GX9, with the only difference being its 3440x1440 resolution — I can say that the step up in resolution would make LG's 5K2K display worth every cent, despite its high price.
(Image credit: Dell / Alienware)
With the new Alienware AW3926QW 5K2K OLED ultrawide slated for launch by the end of June, LG's top-of-the-line monitor might have its money's worth. Thanks to the AW3926QW's 39-inch display size, there's a higher pixel density at 5K2K, meaning image quality will be much sharper than what the LG GX9 has to offer.
It is an RGB stripe tandem OLED panel, which reduces text fringing and provides significantly higher and more consistent brightness compared to other OLED monitors.
Most importantly, the big takeaway is that the AW3926QW's price is rumored to be at $1,100 (around £824 / AU$1,572). That's a very generous and affordable price tag, since other monitors with the same specifications are far more expensive.
The great thing is that more details on pricing should be coming very soon, so there's a good reason to weigh the options between the two monstrous displays.
We're in the midst of (a very hot) summer, and I'm sure many of you out there are raring to go on your travels this season. But if you're about to jet off on your vacation, then it's best to be as prepared as possible. And you know what you need to make your travels as seamless and enjoyable as possible? Some top-tier tech.
I'm a Senior Reviews Writer here at TechRadar, and have tested hundreds of gadgets over the years, from premium noise-cancelling headphones through to power banks and misting fans. So, I've got the lowdown on all the travel tech essentials you need to make this summer one to remember — for all the right reasons, of course.
I've included seven must-haves, with a small speaker, travel chargers, and even a compact clothes steamer on the list. Everything here has either been tested by me, or someone on the TechRadar team, so I'm confident that each item will serve you well on your adventures this summer and beyond. So, without further ado, let's dive right into my top picks!
1. Noise cancelling headphones: Sony WH-1000XM6
Oh look, it's me wearing the Sony WH-1000XM6! (Image credit: Future)
Ah, Sony WH-1000XM6, my beloved. These are, in my view — and the view of many at TechRadar — the best headphones you can buy right now.
The XM6 have it all. Class-leading active noise cancellation works great, even on flights with jet rumbles and screaming children. They sound incredible, with brilliant balance across the frequency range, as well as plenty of low-end punch and excitement to make energetic tunes sound their best. And they're foldable too, making them incredibly compact when you're on the move.
These come with a handy magnetic carry case, 30 hours of battery life, and excellent touch controls. Sony's Sound Connect app also makes it easy to tailor sound to your liking and make any subtle changes you need. They're simply the best, but I'll let you find that out for yourself.
2. Small speaker: JBL Go 5
This small speaker is ideal for getting ready or listening to tunes by the beach (Image credit: Future)
The JBL Go 5 launched recently, and when I reviewed it, the speaker genuinely took my breath away.
It's exactly how to do an upgrade right, offering better sound, a more flashy design, and even better durability than its already impressive predecessor, the JBL Go 4. I love its edge lighting, its well-balanced sound with clean bass and rich mids, and also its broad feature set, which includes EQ options and multi-speaker pairing.
Despite improving on what its predecessor had to offer, the Go 5 is available at a very similar price, typically coming in at around the $55 / £40 mark, and if you need excellent sound, solid battery life, and high level (IP68) waterproofing on a budget, then it's the best small Bluetooth speaker to buy right now.
3. Power bank: Anker Nano Power Bank 10K 45W
With an integrated cable and speedy charging, this power bank is ideal for on-the-go use (Image credit: Future)
I genuinely bring this Anker power bank with me everywhere. It's the definitive portable battery for travel for a few key reasons.
The first is its size. This model is absolutely tiny and can easily slip into a pocket or small bag, no problem. Second, it's incredibly practical. There's an integrated USB-C cable, making charging on the go totally seamless. And finally, it's a fantastic performer. That 45W max wattage means fast-charging is easily accessible on even some of the best phones.
A 10,000mAh capacity should also mean it can charge a pair of wireless headphones as well as your handset, so if you want an ultra-practical, lightweight power bank to bring on the go, the Anker Nano Power Bank 10K 45W is my number one recommendation.
4. Travel charger: Anker Nano Charger 45W with USB-C Cable
It's compact, high-performing, and even comes with a USB-C cable (Image credit: Future)
If you need a travel charger for your phone, tablets, and wireless earbuds, then look no further than the Anker Nano Charger 45W, which comes with a USB-C cable in the box — a nice touch!
I've used this one a lot myself, and it's great for travel. Why? Well, it's incredibly compact and packs in quite a bit of power, meaning you can make use of fast charging without lugging a massive brick around. If you're using a travel adapter, the model's low weight also means it won't awkwardly get weighed down or stick out, which is a huge plus.
This charger is well-built, foldable — helping it to slide into your pocket — and highly affordable. It really has it all, so if you're still using a slow charger, then take things up a notch with this awesome Anker alternative.
5. Portable fan: Shark ChillPill
Take a ChillPill with this awesome portable fan (Image credit: Future)
In the UK, it's absolutely scorching right now. It feels like I'm fighting for my life here with the combination of high humidity and near record-breaking temperature. And when you're on your summer travels, I'd wager that it will be similarly blazing in a number of countries. What you need, then, is a portable fan.
We're big... fans... of the Shark ChillPill here at TechRadar, and awarded it a 4.5 star review recently. It has good battery life, is filled with a range of cooling options, and even has a mister for when you need a healthy blast of cold.
The build and design quality is strong here too, and the straightforward controls make it a joy to use. Yes, it's a little expensive, but we've seen it pop up on sale from time to time, so if you want to stay chilled on the move, then I'd strongly suggest picking this lil' gadget up.
6. Philips Shaver S9000 Prestige
(Image credit: Future)
OK, so not everyone will need this, but if, like me, your facial hair seems to grow back in the blink of an eye, the Philips Shaver S9000 Prestige will be a great addition to your travel tech arsenal.
With multiple speed settings to suit your desired sensitivity, wet and dry shaving versatility, interchangeable heads (including a beard trimmer), and spectacular handling, the S9000 Prestige is a true all-rounder.
This model also has solid battery life and I rarely need to juice it up. But it comes with a wireless charging pad for when you're running low on power. There's also a cleaning device thrown in the box, and a carry case for whenever you're on the move.
I've found that the S9000 Prestige is kind on my skin, which is pretty prone to razor burn, and its flexible foil shaver is great at getting into those hard to reach areas around the nose, for instance. It launched at a fairly high price, but you can regularly swipe it up on sale now, so why not give it a go?
7. Clothes steamer: various options
OK, in all honesty, I've not actually got a travel clothes steamer, but when some colleagues of mine heard that I was writing this piece, they were clear that it's a must have.
After all, how many times have you been on holiday or out on a business trip and realized that our garments look a little creased? For me, it's a few times too many. With a compact clothes steamer, you can wave goodbye to pesky creases and wrinkles in a flash.
So, I have a few recommendations from the team that I'm here to share with you. For our US readers, Managing Editor of News & Deals, Jacob Krol, suggests the Conair Handheld Garment Steamer. This affordable model boasts "turbo steam power," comes with a 3-in-1 attachment, and has a water tank that's good for 20 minutes of steaming. Not bad, eh?
Over the pond, our Managing Editor of Social & Engagement, Josephine Watson, had a couple of recommendations. The first, the Tefal Pure Pop Slim Handheld, is cheap, comes in a range of funky colors, and heats up in just 15 seconds for super speedy action. Josephine told me that her bridesmaid friend bought this model in order to save a wedding dress disaster — and luckily, it worked. Talk about coming in clutch.
Josephine also recommended the Russell Hobbs Steam Genie 2in1 Handheld, even claiming she would trade her firstborn for it. Pretty high praise. This model has a 150ml water tank, can heat up nice and swiftly, and claims to kill up to 99.9% of bacteria within 60 seconds.
Ring video doorbells always get deep discounts for Amazon Prime Day, but the savings might not be quite as impressive as they first seem. Although the up-front cost might be low, you'll need a Ring Home subscription to get the most out of your new purchase, and that can really add up over the years. That's not the case with all video doorbells, though, and here I've rounded up my top five picks that give you full functionality without the monthly fees.
The key is that all the video doorbells here let you store videos on a microSD card. Some brands offer cloud storage if you really want it, but it's definitely not necessary. Some doorbells (like the EZVIZ EP4 I'm testing right now) also include newer features like facial recognition that you'd usually expect to be part of a paid membership plan.
All of these doorbells have been tested, reviewed, and given the seal of approval by our team of home tech experts, so you can be confident you're making the right choice.
Eufy Video Doorbell Dual
Daniel HesselDaniel HesselDaniel HesselDaniel HesselDaniel HesselDaniel HesselDaniel Hessel
Eufy's smart-looking device is an excellent option if you're looking for a subscription-free video doorbell on a budget. The Video Doorbell Dual records video at 2K, which is just fine for us, and is loaded with advanced features like package detection and the ability to play pre-recorded voice messages, all with no membership necessary.
It has an infrared sensor that detects visitors' body heat, while a radar motion detector scans for movement. Better yet, its software includes AI person-recognition, and during our tests, it was able to accurately identify and label visitors in our video clips. We didn't receive any false positives, and the detailed app notifications meant we could tell who was calling at a glance, without even picking up our phone.
All your footage is stored locally on the HomeBase 2 (bundled with the doorbell), which provides 16GB for your clips. You can buy cloud storage if you really want to, but there's no compelling reason to when you can keep control over your own videos and access them for free.
We didn't love having to take the doorbell down to charge it (there's no swappable power pack), but it can be connected to existing doorbell wiring if you'd rather not run it from its battery.
Chris PriceChris PriceChris PriceChris PriceChris PriceChris PriceChris Price
Swann makes some of the best video doorbells and best home security cameras we've tested here at TechRadar, and they all have one big selling point: there's no subscription plan necessary to save your videos or to use their most advanced features. Although you can pay for cloud storage if you really want to, it's not necessary at all.
The Swann Buddy4K is also a fully-fledged home security camera with features like motion detection and the ability to differentiate among subjects such as people, pets, cars, and packages. All of this is included with the initial cost of the doorbell (unlike devices from brands like Ring, which charge a regular fee to unlock such features).
"It’s possible to store videos by type – particularly handy if you want to find out when a parcel was left on the doorstep," said our reviewer Chris Price. "Alternatively, you can store videos in chronological order on the built-in MicroSD card."
The doorbell's AI assistant (which generates custom voice responses for visitors so you don't have to speak to them) was still in beta when we reviewed it, but even without it, it's an excellent device that comes highly recommended for helping secure your home.
James HollandJames HollandJames HollandJames HollandJames HollandJames Holland
The Philips 7000 Series boasts impressive video quality, great viewing angles, and a generous 8GB of onboard storage.
It boasts dual cameras to give a clear view of both visitors and any packages they may leave on your doorstep. Its 2K resolution will be ample for most homes (4K doorbells are now widely available, but usually burdened by subscription fees), and during our tests, we were thoroughly impressed by how sensitive it was to motion. In terms of responsiveness, it was up there with the best home security cameras. Night vision is crisp as well (the doorbell is equipped with infrared sensors).
We found installation refreshingly straightforward, with a choice of mounting plates so you can choose one to suit your home, and it can be used with existing doorbell wiring or wireless from a rechargeable battery.
The 7000 Series isn't the cheapest video doorbell around, but its price is competitive considering how much you're getting. It's around the same as the Ring Video Doorbell 2, which requires a membership to save and review video footage.
The only other drawback for us was a slight lag we noticed during two-way talk with visitors. Otherwise, the 7000 Series is hard to beat (though it's not currently available to buy in the UK).
Les WatsonChris PriceChris PriceChris PriceChris PriceChris Price
Aqara is well known for its excellent subscription-free video doorbells and home security cameras, and the Video Doorbell G4 ranks among the best. It works with all the main smart home platforms, which is quite rare, can run from a battery or be used wired, and is packed with extra features that you'd normally expect to come with a hefty subscription fee, such as subject-identification and customizable motion-detection zones.
You can store your videos on a microSD card installed in the doorbell chime supplied in the box, but Aqara also offers a free cloud storage plan that saves 7 days of recordings at no charge. You can pay for extra online storage if you really want, but there's no need.
Its field of view is narrower than you'd get with a Ring doorbell, and its picture isn't as sharp, but it's still a great budget option — and one that could get even cheaper on Amazon Prime Day.
The clever little EZVIZ EP4 is marketed as a security camera, and it does serve that purpose, but it does double-duty as a video doorbell, with a large push-button on top that triggers a notification on your phone when pressed, allowing you to see and speak to the person at your door via the EZVIZ app.
This is a great option for anyone who rents or lives in an apartment, because there's absolutely no drilling required, and when you want to move out, you can simply remove it and take it with you. Just unscrew the peephole from your front door, and you can install it in seconds. I used it at home and had it up and running within 10 minutes. Removing it is even quicker, and it did no damage to my door whatsoever.
The 4K picture is sharp and vivid, whether you're viewing it on the internal screen or within the EZVIZ app. The camera has AI person-detection, and can alert you when someone is at the door even if they've not pressed the bell. It can also use facial recognition to let you know when certain individuals have arrived.
There's no subscription required (videos can be stored on an internal MicroSD card), and for me, the only significant drawback is that the camera's field of view isn't wide enough to see packages on your doorstep. Note that the EZVIZ EP4 is currently only available in the UK.
Tim Cook has long taken a strong stance against the infringement of Apple users' privacy – and the general erosion of privacy. That's been the case whether he's shown support for end-to-end encryption or if he's railed against the monetization of user data.
The rise of data protection
Almost a decade ago, the European Union (EU) introduced the most radical reformations to data protection laws in a generation with the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR).
Quote of the day
This article is part of TechRadar Pro's QOTD project to provide an insight into the minds of the brightest and most recognized figures in the technology industry today and in years gone by. Read the full series here.
He pointed out that billions of dollars were changing hands – and countless decisions were being made based on data points harvested from our interactions on digital platforms. These may include clicks of a Like button but also the information we have shared, often without understanding the full implications.
Your very own digital profile
Cook projected a dystopian future in which each person would be represented by a digital profile that's been devised based on analysis of the countless data points systems have gathered.
The purpose of this form of behavioral profiling, he suggested in his speech, could range from more effectively monetising your information to targeting you with more extremist content in one direction or another.
For example, we've since seen the way that social media platforms and similar sites have been highly effective in populist political movements, including the U.K. 'Brexit' decision to leave the EU. There are also fears this sort of power has been weaponized, to use Cook's phrase, by foreign adversaries.
Nearly 10 years on from the introduction of GDPR, there are fears that the rise of AI – which is turbocharging some of the fears the outgoing Apple boss raised – is undermining the laws and that newer, more modern regulations are needed.
This spring, as many are wont to do, I decided to use the power of shakes to get myself a bunch of nutrients that I'm assured will change my life. I settled on a concoction of oat milk, protein powder, cacao, chia seeds, and banana, and got myself a Ninja BlendBoss.
I wanted something without too big a footprint on the surface. I liked the 'tumbler blender' design, meaning you can take your drink away with you instantly after blending without decanting into something else. Plus, our Ninja BlendBoss review was glowing, so it seemed like an ideal fit.
And for a while now, it's done a perfect job for my morning routine. I get a nice smooth drink, with the chia seeds smashed into smaller bits so they don't get stuck in my teeth and make me look a fool all day, and everything is fully mixed just using the 'Blend IQ' preset mode.
More recently, though, I've been living through a heatwave, and I've finally had reason to explore its ability to crush ice… and I'm so glad I happened to already have the BlendBoss at home, because the ability to summon a super-cold slushie-style drink in under two minutes feels like having a superpower right now.
We gave the Ninja BlendBoss 4.5 stars out of 5 in our review, praising it as "a small but mighty blender that makes it easy to blend your favorite smoothies and iced beverages". We liked its powerful operation, small footprint, and the fact that it blends right into a tumbler you can take away. This is its first real discount, because it's a pretty new product.View Deal
The UK BlendBoss deal is even better than the US one — these are the first real discounts it's had, and this is a great price for something this easy and powerful.View Deal
It's not quite the smoothness of a true slushie, of course — otherwise, what would anyone need the Ninja Slushi for? — but it can really pulp that ice to provide something with the 'blended cocktail' consistency.
Yes, obviously, I could (and regularly do) put regular ice in my drink, but that just provides a gentle cold spot near where the ice is. The BlendBoss gives me a way of delivering a tasty blizzard right to my insides. I've never had such easy access to ice cream headaches, and I'm over the moon about it.
It's also convenient that you can easily buy a second tumbler to use with it, so that if I'm enjoying my quick slushie straight from the container, my partner doesn't have to wait — she can have an ice schedule entirely of her own making.
Now that I've tested how well it works for ice crushing, I'll probably end up using it for frozen margaritas during a lot more of the year. Maybe I'll learn what's in a daiquiri. For now, I'm avoiding alcohol during the heatwave — I'm just happy with it being my ultimate cold drink buddy.
Amazon Prime Day is the perfect time to find yourself a new smartwatch. But while most people use the word 'smartwatch' in a very general sense, there is a massive variety in the category, and the right smartwatch has to fit your lifestyle and budget.
Do you want something that could pass convincingly for an analog watch that can also field notifications and make calls, or do you want a rugged trail companion that'll withstand everything from seawater to rock-scrambling? A cheap fitness tracker or a super-premium specialist golf watch?
Below are 24 deals on every kind of smartwatch, mainly from Amazon but here and there from other sites running anti-Prime Day sales, for you to peruse this week. It's likely the wearable you're looking for is here, whether you want a rugged Apple Watch Ultra 3 for Prime Day or a low-priced, high-performer like the Amazfit Active 2.
Save an impressive 30% on the Samsung Galaxy Watch8 Classic, which features a rotating bezel that lets you scroll through the watch's options intuitively and resembles the look of a classic watch. It comes in one size (large, 46mm) with either a black or a white leather strap. View Deal
A 4.5-star smartwatch with super-accurate health and activity tracking, as well as AI features, we reviewed this watch and called it 'a triumph'. This larger 44mm version has a staggering 38% off, but the smaller 40mm versions start at $229.99 (was $349.99).View Deal
For one of Apple's latest smartwatches, $120 off is more than generous, especially if you're looking to upgrade for the latest watchOS 27 support, which comes with Siri AI goodies. This is the first time this month the Apple Watch Series 11 has dropped in price, but it's unlikely it'll see a bigger reduction this Prime Day.View Deal
As far as Apple's basic smartwatch range goes, not only is the SE 3 a speedy upgrade from its predecessor (it has the same chip as the Ultra 3), but it has the firmware to support watchOS 27. For less than $200, you can benefit from core fitness tracking features as well as the neat new tools that are on the way, which include Siri AI, all while not having to spend a shedload on an advanced model if you know you won't need all the nitty-gritty bells and whistles. We named this the best Apple Watch for most people, a safe and inexpensive option. View Deal
Are you a Garmin user who wants to try something different? The Apple Watch Ultra range is a solid Garmin rival if a) you like using your smartwatch without having to keep your iPhone nearby, and b) you know you'll want to get a kick out of its plethora of extreme sports features. As predicted, this model has seen another price drop just before Prime Day, hitting a record-low discount. It's the best watch of last year.View Deal
$250 off the five-star Garmin Fenix 8 in its smallest 43mm size and Whitestone colorway. Perfect for those who want serious power on smaller wrists (and adventure watches are usually big, lumpy affairs, so it's nice to have a smaller option), it still packs an impressive 10-day battery life, advanced training features, an LED flashlight, and full-color maps. View Deal
Here's a chance to get a whopping 50% off the original retail price of the excellent Garmin epix Pro (Gen 2). The 4.5-star smartwatch is an excellent buy for dedicated and enthusiast runners, thanks to its top-tier health tracking and GPS navigation features. You also get a clear AMOLED display with a scratch-resistant sapphire lens, and a titanium bezel. As far as premium smartwatches go, this value prospect is tough to beat.View Deal
You can save $20 on this already-cheap watch, making it an absolute steal. Beyond reliable fitness tracking, a nice screen, a stainless steel case, 10-day battery life, and free map software (not even Garmin will give you that at this price), you get the Premium super-tough sapphire glass, NFC payments, and a nicer strap than the base Active 2.View Deal
The Garmin Vivoactive 5is a fantastic all-rounder fitness smartwatch with tons of workout plans, a crisp AMOLED display, onboard GPS, and 11 days of battery life. At this price, you'll be hard-pressed to find a better-performing watch for general fitness, health, and exercise tracking. A Fitbit beater.View Deal
Right now, you can save $50 on both 41mm and 45mm Garmin Venu 4 models, in a variety of colors: Black and Lunar Gold for the 41mm, Grey and Citron for the 45mm. Up to 10 days of battery life, great workout and wellness tracking, and lots of Garmin Connect IQ third-party app support. View Deal
Save a cool $80 on the Google Pixel Watch 4, one of the best Android watches overall. But the real star of this deal is that as it's an LTE watch, Best Buy are offering 2 years of LTE data absolutely free, so you can call, email, and check messages even without a phone nearby. Beat that, Amazon!
The Garmin epix Pro (Gen 2) has a superb discount in the UK as well. Runners will not want to miss this best-ever offer on the 4.5-star smartwatch, which offers excellent health tracking and GPS navigation features. The vibrant AMOLED display and rugged titanium bezel make it easy to see and resilient. I ran a marathon with this, and at this price I'd buy it over any other Garmin. View Deal
In the UK there's a 20% discount on the Premium version of the five-star watch. Amazfit's health and fitness suite includes free maps, heart rate, sleep data, workout profiles, GPS and lots more, and NFC allows you to load your cards into its digital wallet. At this price is really is a steal. View Deal
A lowest-ever price on the Garmin Vivoactive 5 means there's never been a better time to snap this up. Garmin's comprehensive training app has served me well for years, while the Vivoactive 5 at this price is an easy buy for Fitbit users who are used to cheaper price points. View Deal
£149 off the white 43mm Fenix 8 model. A five-button configuration and AMOLED touchscreen mean you can operate the watch while wearing gloves in adverse weather conditions. It's perfect for hikers, skiers, campers, and triathletes. View Deal
Save 25% on both smaller and larger models with LTE enabled, which means you can add them to your phone's data plan and install an eSIM for phone-free data use using only your watch. Very handy. View Deal
Save a cool 33% on the Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra in all colorways, including the fetching Titanium Blue version introduced last year. While it's not the best choice for everyone, its power, longevity (up to 100 hours!) and rugged durability means it's well-made for adventurers and triathletes. Watch out, Garmin. View Deal
Folks in the UK have a seriously tempting offer here at First Class Watches, where you can save a huge £700 on the MARQ Golfer (Gen 2)! This is enormous, and I have never seen the premium watch as close to the thousand-pound mark as this. Considering this was a multi-thousand-pound watch not that long ago, this is a great deal for those on the premium device hunt.View Deal
Luckily for UK shoppers, this is the lowest price for one of Apple's latest and most advanced wearables. With that in mind, waiting around for another Prime Day price drop may not be the best idea if it's already record-low ahead of the big event. View Deal
Just like its US equivalent, shoppers in the UK can pick up the Apple Watch Series 11 for the same price, and its price history is similar. This device likes to yo-yo in price so it's difficult to tell when the next price drop will occur, so it may be worth scoring it now while you can, especially if you don't like to take risks when it comes to Prime Day. View Deal
This is the lowest price we've seen the SE 3 hit in the UK, but this is another listing that has a history of jumping between high and low price points. As mentioned earlier, we recommend the SE 3 for users who want a just-above entry level device, and the upside is that it will support watchOS 27 when it drops later this yearView Deal
This is the best price we've yet seen a Google Pixel Watch 4, bringing the top Android watch down to under $300 in all four colors. An absolute steal if you can get it.
Do you need headphones for the next semester or term? I get it. And is money, er, relatively tight? Again, I understand — and the good news is, a huge sales event known as Amazon Prime Day is here to help.
I'm also here to help, as TechRadar's audio editor and full-time headphones tester since 2019. So, even if I do flatter myself, I know what makes a good set of headphones — and which pairs will lend themselves to studying that aren't those flagship sets few people can afford on a student loan.
When I went to college, there was no Bluetooth audio (why thank you but no really, it's true). There were also no music streaming services and the MP3 format was very much in its infancy.
What I did have was a portable CD player and some Sony headphones. And let me tell you that I owe every exam I passed to these products (plus my local HMV store, which I scurried along to armed with money from a part-time job waiting tables at a Wimpy restaurant).
As a dancer since age two, it turns out I have always needed music and simultaneous movement (or the compulsion to move) to retain information from books. I've since found out I'm not alone — and maybe that's why you're here.
What follows are the four best pairs of headphones I've found for students. I'll explain why briefly, and link to the best deals live now. And don't worry, you've got this.
1. CMF Headphone Pro: artsy over-ears that won't break the bank
(Image credit: Future)
Did you know that CMF is simply Nothing's more affordable arm — so these headphones carry a lot of Nothing Headphone (a) magic, just in a more affordable build? And what a lovely original build it is too.
I tested these budget-friendly, very comfortable and surprisingly customizable over-ear headphones and if zealous, bass-hungry sound quality sounds like a bit of you, you'll love these. Add to this the outstanding battery life, the kinds of hearing tests (and personal sonic profile curation) I'm more used to seeing in headphones much higher up the food chain, an 'Energy-slider' that can ramp up the low end even further and a glorious volume wheel on the right ear cup that's something reminiscent of much pricier headgear (the kind made by a company named after a fruit, if you get me) and they're a winning combination.
All of this for a sub-$100 / £80 fee — before we start looking for discounts? OK, the ANC is acceptable rather than amazing and you don't get a hard case, but still, you’ll struggle to find a more original set of affordable headphones that offer this much for this little. Need more? Read my glowing 4.5-star CMF Headphone Pro review.
CMF Headphone Pro
TechRadar's official review scores
Features
4.5
Sound Quality
4.5
Design
4.5
Battery Life
5
Noise Cancellation
4
Value
4.5
Overall
4.5
Group 1 Data
Product
Features ()
Sound Quality ()
Design ()
Battery Life ()
Noise Cancellation ()
Value ()
Overall ()
CMF Headphone Pro
4.5
4.5
4.5
5
4
4.5
4.5
2. OneOdio Focus A6: one of the team's best budget headphones by a mile
(Image credit: Future / Dave Meikleham)
For one of the TechRadar team, these are the best affordable cans they've ever tested — and it's not even close, as a quick scan of our 4.5-star review of the OneOdio Focus A6 shows.
You know the flagship Apple cans I vaguely mentioned before — the ones that very few of us can afford? This particular team member prefers the product you're looking at here to those elite over-ears, for sound. What else makes them so good? Well, USB-C audio support, a solid and classy build quality, plus a super-slick companion app you very rarely see at this level and Bluetooth 6.0 for starters.
Again, the ANC is very good rather than stellar, but this is budget-friendly territory and you will struggle to better it at anything like this price point. Highly recommended.
OneOdio Focus A6
TechRadar's official review scores
Features
4
Sound Quality
4.5
Design
4.5
Battery Life
5
Noise Cancellation
4
Value
5
Overall
4.5
Group 1 Data
Product
Features ()
Sound Quality ()
Design ()
Battery Life ()
Noise Cancellation ()
Value ()
Overall ()
1More Sonoflow Pro HQ51
4
4.5
4.5
5
4
5
4.5
3. 1More Sonoflow Pro HQ51: ignore the name — focus on the value
(Image credit: Future)
Try to get past the name that sounds like some sort of water filtration system (sorry, maybe just me?) and there's a musically sensitive and expressive set of headphones here that'll reward you time and again for your nominal asking fee.
In fact, we called them the "ultimate in sound-per-pound value" in our 4.5-star in-depth 1More Sonoflow Pro HQ51 review. The aesthetic is much more 'your average set of basic cans' here, but at school, college or university (where the security of your valuables will never be far from your mind), that's no bad thing. And although they might look fairly anonymous, the budget has certainly been spent on the drivers under the hood, because they sound fantastic for the money.
Here, the app isn't especially slick, but it's functional. Also, the battery life is extensive, the ANC is up to scratch and you can even listen via 3.5mm with the bundled cable in the box. If you don't mind their relatively anonymous looks, it's a winner.
1More Sonoflow Pro HQ51
TechRadar's official review scores
Features
4
Sound Quality
4
Design
4
Battery Life
5
Noise Cancellation
4
Value
5
Overall
4.5
Group 1 Data
Product
Features ()
Sound Quality ()
Design ()
Battery Life ()
Noise Cancellation ()
Value ()
Overall ()
1More Sonoflow Pro HQ51
4
4
4
5
4
5
4.5
4. Sony over-ears, but not as you know them
(Image credit: Future)
Alongside the flagship Sony WH-1000XM6 and even newer, arguably even fancier Collexion set of cans, there exists a cheaper set of Sony over-ears. And while they're a little older now (having launched in Spring 2023) they still boast effective noise cancellation and many aspects of the Sony sound quality that made their upmarket siblings the industry standard.
The name — Sony WH-CH720 — is instantly forgettable, but the sound quality is not. OK, the build is a little bit plasticky and you're not getting hi-res codecs, but the ANC does a great job at nixing extraneous sounds for this money. And while the sound feels just a tad compressed when pitted against pricier rivals, Sony's Sound Connect companion app helps to tweak things and make them a fantastic option for the money.
Also, given their relative age, I'd look out for extra discounts on Prime Day…
Unsurprisingly, Amazon's Prime Day tech deals are some of the best offers we've seen, thanks to record-low prices from brands like Apple, Samsung, Kindle, Sony, Fitbit, and more. You'll find TechRadar's best-reviewed products on sale, making it easy to recommend thanks to tempting low prices.
I'll also be live-blogging today's most exciting deals, highlighting our favorite products and why we recommend buying them. Remember, you must be a Prime member to shop today's sale. If you aren't already a member, you can sign up for a free 30-day trial.
Amazon has the best-selling Our Ring 4 on sale for a new record-low price of $259. Sleek and comfortable, the Oura Ring 4 is fully titanium, making it built to last and highly durable. You get incredibly accurate data and personalized health insights, from sleep to how active you are throughout the day.View Deal
Amazon's newest 4K streaming stick is down to its lowest-ever price for Prime Day. Considering it's only a few bucks more than the cheaper HD version, you might as well pay for the upgrade and get access to higher resolution streaming — as long as you have a 4K TV. It lacks a few premium features found in the more expensive Plus and Max models, such as improved Wi-Fi and Dolby Atmos, but this is more than enough to cover general everyday use.View Deal
Another very good Prime Day Apple deal - Apple's 2nd-generation AirTag 4-pack is getting a first-time discount, on sale for $89. Great for people like me who tend to misplace things, simply attach the AirTag to anything you don't want to lose or keep track of, such as luggage or your keys, and your iPhone will locate the item.View Deal
My favorite Prime Day Apple deal is the Apple Watch Series 11 at its lowest price yet. The thinnest Apple Watch yet, with a wraparound LTP3 OLED display, it's a great-looking watch with Apple Intelligence-powered smarts and a boosted battery, clocking in at 24 hours of average use.
The latest version of the standard Kindle is on sale as part of the annual Prime Day sale. It's a basic ereader, but it still boasts a four-week battery life and space for thousands of books. Given it's $40 cheaper than the Paperwhite, this is clearly a better pick for the infrequent reader who's after a more budget-friendly option. At $85, this Prime Day deal matches the record-low price for the ereader, but is far from the bigger discounts I've seen in previous years.View Deal
If you're looking for a cheap set for an extra bedroom, Amazon's Prime Day sale has the best-selling 32-inch 2-Series HD smart TV for a record-low price of $134.99. While the Amazon 2-Series TV lacks 4K resolution, it offers smart capabilities through the Fire TV experience and Amazon Alexa, providing hands-free control.View Deal
Apple's latest base iPad is on sale for $299, which is only $15 more than the record-low price. The most significant upgrade for this model versus the previous generation is the newer A16 chip for faster performance, but you'll also get double the storage as standard (128GB instead of 64GB). Other features include a sharp 11-inch Liquid Retina display and solid 12MP front- and rear-facing cameras, making this iPad the best iPad for casual streamers and scrollers.
The LG C5 is the ultimate all-around TV, delivering excellent performance for movies, gaming and sports with a full suite of features and superb picture quality. The 65-inch model has dropped to $1,199.99 at Amazon and while this isn't a record-low, it's the cheapest it's been since February. View Deal
This might just be the best Prime Day tech deal - Apple's AirPods Pro 3 for $179. Apple's newest premium buds feature improved Active Noise Cancellation, outstanding audio, a comfortable in-ear design, and new features such as live translation and heart-rate tracking. These do-it-all buds really are 100% flagship audio, and the noise-canceling quality is outstanding.View Deal
We consider the Outdoor 4 the best outdoor security camera, so we're thrilled that it's available at a massive 65% discount. It's wire-free and satisfyingly simple to set up, with a battery life of up to 2 years. It features a user-friendly app that lets you make the most of 1080p HD video and two-way audio, with additional features available with a Blink subscription.View Deal
This is the first time we've seen this model drop below $200, and though they're not the latest in Sony's lineup, they're still incredibly popular four years after their release. Blending comfort and audio smarts into one device, the XM5s are a highly reliable pair of headphones. View Deal
Amazon's Echo Spot is a solid smart alarm clock that pairs a 2.83-inch touchscreen with a 1.73-inch front-firing speaker. With Alexa onboard, you can ask the assistant for the weather, play music, or, of course, schedule alarms. This Prime Day deal matches the previous record-low price we saw during Black Friday.View Deal
You can get the best-selling Insignia 50-inch F50 Series 4K TV for an incredible price of $119.99 — a record-low. The Insignia F50 Series TV features 4K HD resolution, DTS Studio Sound, smart capabilities with Fire OS, and a voice remote with hands-free Alexa, so you can use your voice to control your TV.View Deal
If you have wiring for a doorbell, this is an excellent deal on Ring's cheapest doorbell, knocking 50% off the list price. For that amount, you get a Retinal 2K with up to 6x enhanced zoom, live view, and two-way talk.View Deal
You can snag a whopping $50 discount on the Fitbit Sense 2, bringing the price down to $197.95. The Sense 2 is one of Fitbit's most advanced health and fitness smartwatches, capable of tracking sleep and stress and featuring smartphone notifications, contactless payments, and GPS.View Deal
Best Prime Day deals under $50
This convenient wall charger is a must-buy for all your gadgets, and it's on sale for just $8.99 at Amazon's Black Friday sale. The three-sided charger features five outlets, four USB charging ports, a fireproof shell, and surge protection.View Deal
This Kasa Smart Light Bulb, priced at $8.99, would make a great stocking stuffer. The dimmable light bulb can be controlled from anywhere via the Kasa app and works with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, so you can use your voice to control your lights.View Deal
The Amazon smart plug can add smart capabilities to any device in your home, and it's on sale for just $12.99. With over 500,000 positive reviews on Amazon, the smart plug works seamlessly with Amazon Alexa, allowing you to control lights and appliances with just your voice.View Deal
If you haven't heard, wired headphones are all the rage, which is why Apple's EarPods for $14.88 are an excellent Prime Day deal. A slim, quality-looking design, clear sound, and comfortable fit are just a few of their best qualities. This model works with all devices that have a Lightning connector – which is iPhone 14 and before – so if you've got a newer iPhone, you'll instead want the USB-C version ($16.99 at Amazon).View Deal
While this Prime Day deal isn't that exciting, it's a great price on something that everyone uses and needs, and a great excuse to stock up. You get a 32-pack of AA batteries with long-lasting power that can last up to 10 years in storage.View Deal
For just $15, you can get the Tile by Life360 Mate, which can track anything it's attached to – a very useful gift idea. If you tend to misplace your phone, wallet, or key, attach the Tile to it, and it will locate it on a map, or you can make it play a sound.View Deal
You can get Amazon's standard Fire TV Stick for just $15.99 — a new record-low price. In our Fire TV Stick review, we found the original version was a cheap way to add essential smart features to your TV, including access to streaming apps in HD, Alexa voice controls, and the ability to control other smart home devices.View Deal
Don’t underestimate its size (and price point, for that matter), because this tiny security camera boasts a hi-res 2K camera and a spotlight for nighttime visibility. Thanks to Amazon's Prime Day sale, you can get the latest version of the security camera for under $20.View Deal
I already own a couple of these devices, and at just $19.99, it's time to stock up again. The TP-Link AC1200 boosts Wi-Fi internet coverage up to 1,500 square feet and connects up to 30 devices. At this price, it's a must-buy for your home or office.View Deal
Another top deal from the Amazon Big Spring Sale is the all-new Blink Video Doorbell for only $35.99. The Blink doorbell alerts you when motion is detected and features infrared night vision, two-way audio, a two-year battery life, and an expanded field of view.View Deal
Apple's second-generation AirTag with louder sound, a 50% improvmenet in range for Precision Finding, and the rest of the features that made the first-gen such a great item tracker are at the lowest price ever ahead of Prime Day 2026. Right now, Amazon has a single AirTag for just $24. View Deal
Sony on-ears for under $40? That's not a mistake: this deal takes a cool 53% off the list price, making them good contenders to buy again, even though they're getting a little old. We said in our Sony WH-CH520 review that they are "simply superb value" at the time, and this deal keeps them that way. They sound good, they run for 50 hours between charges, and they're comfortable too – but you won't get fancier features such as active noise cancellation.View Deal
Amazon's new Fire TV Stick 4K Plus streams shows and movies on your TV in ultra-high definition 4K resolution. This updated version now supports Dolby Vision, Wi-Fi 6, and includes 2GB of RAM. This deal from Amazon Prime Day is a return to the record-low price and excellent value for an all-around streaming device.View Deal
The Amazon Echo Dot is down to $34.99 for Prime Day. Amazon's best-selling smart speaker offers improved audio, a new temperature sensor, and all the handy Alexa features just a voice command away, such as playing music, answering questions, and checking the weather. This one was $4 cheaper over Black Friday, but it's still a strong deal.View Deal
In our JBL Go 4 review, we said that "if you’re looking for a conveniently sized and reliably designed speaker on a budget, you won’t be disappointed with the JBL Go 4." It's a great go-anywhere speaker that we rate as being our preferred cheap option among the best Bluetooth speakers – it was already aggressively priced, and this deal makes it even more attractive.View Deal
If you have wiring for a doorbell, this is an excellent deal on Ring's cheapest doorbell, knocking 50% off the list price. For that amount, you get a Retinal 2K with up to 6x enhanced zoom, live view, and two-way talk.View Deal
Apple's second-generation AirTag with louder sound, a 50% improvmenet in range for Precision Finding, and the rest of the features that made the first-gen such a great item tracker are at the lowest price ever ahead of Prime Day 2026. Right now, Amazon has a single AirTag for just $24. View Deal
Another very good Prime Day Apple deal - Apple's 2nd-generation AirTag 4-pack is getting a first-time discount, on sale for $89. Great for people like me who tend to misplace things, simply attach the AirTag to anything you don't want to lose or keep track of, such as luggage or your keys, and your iPhone will locate the item.View Deal
If you haven't heard, wired headphones are all the rage, which is why Apple's EarPods for $14.88 are an excellent Prime Day deal. A slim, quality-looking design, clear sound, and comfortable fit are just a few of their best qualities. This model works with all devices that have a Lightning connector – which is iPhone 14 and before – so if you've got a newer iPhone, you'll instead want the USB-C version ($16.99 at Amazon).View Deal
The AirPods 4 are Apple's cheapest AirPods, and you can find them on sale for $99, which is the lowest price we've seen this year and $30 shy of the record-low. The AirPods 4 feature a new design for all-day comfort and feature Apple's H2 chip, which supports personalized spatial audio and voice isolation. You also get a redesigned case with 30 hours of battery life and support for wireless charging via USB-C.
Amazon has the AirPods 4 with active noise cancellation on sale for $148.99, which is the best deal you can find right now. The AirPods 4 feature a new comfortable design, handy controls, and Apple's H2 chip, which supports personalized spatial audio and voice isolation.
This might just be the best Prime Day tech deal - Apple's AirPods Pro 3 for $179.99. Apple's newest premium buds feature improved Active Noise Cancellation, outstanding audio, a comfortable in-ear design, and new features such as live translation and heart-rate tracking. These do-it-all buds really are 100% flagship audio, and the noise-canceling quality is outstanding.View Deal
Amazon has the all-new AirPods Max 2 on sale for $399, which is the lowest price we've seen. The over-ear headphones now include Apple's H2 chip, which delivers adaptive audio, personalized volume, and improved voice isolation, resulting in superior sound. You're also getting up to 1.5x more Active Noise Cancellation and 20 hours of battery life.
Amazon has a $50 discount on the new Apple Watch SE 3, making it an excellent bargain. The Apple Watch SE 2 currently holds the position as the best budget smartwatch, but the SE 3 more than matches it – and it's a smarter buy while it's on sale this week at Amazon.
My favorite Prime Day Apple deal is an over $100 discount on the Apple Watch Series 11. The thinnest Apple Watch yet, with a wraparound LTP3 OLED display, it's a great-looking watch with Apple Intelligence-powered smarts and a boosted battery, clocking in at 24 hours of average use.
Apple's latest base iPad is on sale for $299, which is only $15 more than the record-low price. The most significant upgrade for this model versus the previous generation is the newer A16 chip for faster performance, but you'll also get double the storage as standard (128GB instead of 64GB). Other features include a sharp 11-inch Liquid Retina display and solid 12MP front- and rear-facing cameras, making this iPad the best iPad for casual streamers and scrollers.
Amazon has the newest iPad Air with the M4 chipset on sale for $519 right now. In addition to Apple's superfast brain, this iPad features a crisp Liquid Retina display, 128GB of storage as standard, 12MP front and rear cameras, and support for Apple's AI features.
The MacBook Neo is in stock with all colors at Amazon today, with a small price cut, too. The latest MacBook packs a 13-inch Liquid Retina display, an A18 Pro chip, 8GB of RAM, 256GB of storage, and up to 16 hours of battery life, all for under $600. It's no wonder this latest model is already proving to be a bestseller.
With an impressive $150 discount, this Prime Day deal addresses our main complaint about the M5 Air: it's pricier than the previous model. Now, you're getting the latest chipset, 16GB of RAM, and a bigger 512GB SSD for much less, with a price that arguably challenges even the budget MacBook Neo when it comes to outright value.
For creative professionals, the 14-inch MacBook Pro powered by the performance-driven M5 Pro chip is the one to choose. This beast flies through demanding workloads like video editing without skipping a beat.
Amazon's cheapest Prime Day TV deal is Insignia's 32-inch F20 Series Fire TV for just $69.99. The Fire TV features Full HD resolution, DTS Virtual :X Sound for impressive audio, smart capabilities with the Fire OS, and a voice remote with hands-free Alexa – all for under $100.View Deal
If you're looking for a cheap set for an extra bedroom, Amazon's Prime Day sale has the best-selling 32-inch 2-Series HD smart TV for a record-low price of $134.99. While the Amazon 2-Series TV lacks 4K resolution, it offers smart capabilities through the Fire TV experience and Amazon Alexa, providing hands-free control.View Deal
If you're looking for a small-screen budget TV, this 43-inch 4K Fire TV from Toshiba for $159.99 is an unbeatable deal. Toshiba's C350 is a 4K TV with HDR support, delivering solid picture quality for everyday viewing. Access to streaming apps is easy with the Fire TV OS, which has Netflix, Disney+, Prime Video, and more at your fingertips.View Deal
Samsung's S90F OLED TV earned five stars in our review, and, though smaller, the 48S90F shares all the same excellent features. Now Amazon has it at a huge $600 discount. The S90F OLED TV delivers an outstanding picture, thanks to quantum dot OLED technology and Samsung's NQ4 AI Gen3 processor. You're also getting extensive gaming features and Samsung's impressive Tizen operating system.
You can get the best-selling Insignia 50-inch F50 Series 4K TV for an incredible price of $119.99 — a record-low. The Insignia F50 Series TV features 4K HD resolution, DTS Studio Sound, smart capabilities with Fire OS, and a voice remote with hands-free Alexa, so you can use your voice to control your TV.View Deal
This brand-new version of the Amazon 55-inch Fire TV 4-Series is on sale for its lowest price yet. The mid-sized 4K display supports HDR10, delivering a sharp, clear, and vibrant image for TV shows, movies, and sports. All major streaming apps are ready to go, too, and there's voice control via Alexa. It's an all-around solid TV for the price if you need an affordable and capable display.View Deal
Samsung's super-stylish The Frame TV is always a big Prime Day hit, and this is an excellent price for the set, with its smart separate connections box, lovely frame and rich colors. And you get access to Samsung's impressive art selection, of course.View Deal
If you've been holding out for a premium World Cup TV upgrade, this deal on the Samsung S95F 55-inch might be perfect. Dropping to a record-low $1,597 at Best Buy, the S95F's bold colors, high brightness and brilliant anti-reflection screen make it a prime companion for the World Cup. View Deal
The latest Amazon Omni QLED is a brilliant budget TV that delivers solid picture quality and a good set of gaming features, including 4K 60Hz, Dolby Vision, and HDR10+, for an affordable price. This Prime Day discount brings the 55-inch model to its lowest-ever price of $279.99.View Deal
This Hisense U7 Series delivers top TV tech for the money in a reasonably sized display, including a bright, vibrant QLED panel with excellent contrast and a high 165Hz refresh rate for smooth images. It will excel as a TV for watching sports, streaming all your favorite shows and movies, and playing the latest games.View Deal
This Prime Day deal takes the 65-inch Amazon Ember Omni Mini-LED TV down to a record-low price of $879.97. This TV delivers solid brightness and contrast, along with bold colors, and a ready-to-use, out-of-the-box sports mode that lets you watch sports with minimal setup. It also offers a robust selection of gaming features, including 4K, 144Hz, VRR, ALLM, and Dolby Vision support.View Deal
Samsung's 2025 model, The Frame Pro, is down to its lowest price yet for Prime Day. The Frame Pro enhances the impact of the popular lifestyle TV by replacing a standard QLED screen with Neo QLED, which incorporates mini-LEDs for a much better viewing experience, with far richer contrast. It also offers a higher refresh rate and comes with a Wireless One Connect box, so you can place your HDMI connections anywhere in the room. Still, it shows works of art when off and is finished with an anti-reflective coating.View Deal
The TCL QM7K is a feature-packed mini-LED TV that over-delivers for its price range. It has great picture quality and a ton of solid gaming features. While this discount may be small, it does take the 65-inch model down to a new record-low price of $749.99. View Deal
The LG C5 is the ultimate all-around TV, delivering excellent performance for movies, gaming and sports with a full suite of features and superb picture quality. The 65-inch model has dropped to $1,199.99 at Amazon and while this isn't a record-low, it's the cheapest it's been since February. View Deal
The Samsung QN90F is our ultimate TV for sport thanks to its brightness, glare-free screen and excellent motion handling, making it a perfect World Cup TV. Stock is either running low or gone across various retailers, but you can still get the 75-inch model for this great price, considering what a premium TV it is.View Deal
Here is an Amazon exclusive deal on a massive display. You can get TCL's 98-inch QM64L Series for $1,799.99, which is an incredible price for a TV of this size. A truly great budget mini-LED TV, the TCL QM64L delivers vibrant picture quality and solid gaming features for a price that won't break the bank.View Deal
The latest version of the standard Kindle is on sale as part of the annual Prime Day sale. It's a basic ereader, but it still boasts a four-week battery life and space for thousands of books. Given it's $40 cheaper than the Paperwhite, this is clearly a better pick for the infrequent reader who's after a more budget-friendly option. At $85, this Prime Day deal matches the record-low price for the ereader, but is far from the bigger discounts I've seen in previous years.View Deal
Amazon Prime Day features an OK, if a little disappointing, deal on the latest Kindle Paperwhite. We found in our Kindle Paperwhite review that it's packed with features to suit all avid readers, including a 12-week battery life, glare-free 7-inch screen, adjustable warm light, and storage space for thousands of books. This is a good buy and one of the best ereaders out there, it's just a shame that the days of even bigger discounts are well in the past.
The Kindle Colorsoft is down to its lowest price as part of Amazon Prime Day. As Amazon's first and only colored Kindle, it's a must-have for people who love reading travel guides, graphic novels, and other genres with a lot of images and photographs. It's USB-C and wireless charging compatible, lasting up to 8 weeks on a full battery.View Deal
This updated version of the Kindle Scribe hasn't been discounted since launch, so this Prime Day is a great time to bag a deal. The Scribe combines some of the best features of the Kindle Paperwhite, such as the glare-free and auto-adjusting display, along with the option to take notes, comment on documents, and doodle using the included stylus pen. Our Kindle Scribe review was down on some missing features that have been added in recent updates, so now this is a better value for a multi-functional device.View Deal
You can get Amazon's standard Fire TV Stick for just $15.99 — a new record-low price. In our Fire TV Stick review, we found the original version was a cheap way to add essential smart features to your TV, including access to streaming apps in HD, Alexa voice controls, and the ability to control other smart home devices.View Deal
Amazon's newest 4K streaming stick is down to its lowest-ever price for Prime Day. Considering it's only a few bucks more than the cheaper HD version, you might as well pay for the upgrade and get access to higher resolution streaming — as long as you have a 4K TV. It lacks a few premium features found in the more expensive Plus and Max models, such as improved Wi-Fi and Dolby Atmos, but this is more than enough to cover general everyday use.View Deal
Amazon's new Fire TV Stick 4K Plus streams shows and movies on your TV in ultra-high definition 4K resolution. This updated version now supports Dolby Vision, Wi-Fi 6, and includes 2GB of RAM. This deal from Amazon Prime Day is a return to the record-low price and excellent value for an all-around streaming device.View Deal
This is $2 shy of the record-low price for Amazon's premium streaming device. The Fire TV Stick 4K Max streams the same content at the same quality as the standard 4K version, but the extra power inside delivers faster app navigation. Plus, it uses Wi-Fi 6E technology to deliver a more stable, consistent streaming experience.View Deal
The 4K Fire TV Cube is Amazon's fastest-ever streaming media player, functioning as a smart speaker that allows you to control your smart home devices. The Fire TV Cube features Dolby Vision, HDR, and Dolby Atmos support, and works with Amazon Alexa for hands-free control.View Deal
The Amazon Echo Dot is down to $34.99 for Prime Day. Amazon's best-selling smart speaker offers improved audio, a new temperature sensor, and all the handy Alexa features just a voice command away, such as playing music, answering questions, and checking the weather. This one was $4 cheaper over Black Friday, but it's still a strong deal.View Deal
Amazon's Echo Spot is a solid smart alarm clock that pairs a 2.83-inch touchscreen with a 1.73-inch front-firing speaker. With Alexa onboard, you can ask the assistant for the weather, play music, or, of course, schedule alarms. This Prime Day deal matches the previous record-low price we saw during Black Friday.View Deal
Whether you want more advanced features like Lossless High Definition audio and Automatic Room Adaptation, or just love the idea of a more premium-looking speaker with faster Alexa responses, the Echo Dot Max is a great choice. This deal for Prime Day is a new record-low price.View Deal
Amazon's best-selling Echo Show 5 is down to $59.99 for Prime Day. The latest version of the Echo Show 5 features a compact 5.5-inch display but packs impressive sound with deeper bass and clearer vocals. Voice controls are enabled through Amazon Alexa, while you can use the smart screen to listen to podcasts, watch movies, stream videos, play music, and more.View Deal
Amazon's larger smart display just got its biggest discount yet ahead of Prime Day. The Echo Show 11 boasts a vibrant 11-inch full HD screen and spatial audio support for room-filling sound when listening to music or watching videos. With Alexa+ support, too, you get access to all of its advanced AI features, and an easy way to connect and control other smart devices around you home.View Deal
The latest Echo Show 15 got a big refresh when it launched, bringing its specs up to speed and offering a better Alexa experience. These were the first smart displays from Amazon to see the Alexa+ treatment and, naturally, offer one of the better user experiences with Amazon's gen AI-boosted subscription service.View Deal
If your children are at an age where they're after something a bit more capable in tech, then this Amazon Fire HD 10 Kids tablet is a solid upgrade. It has all the parental controls, safety features, and protective measures, and an impressive 13-hour battery life. Today's Prime Day deal is just $5 shy of the record-low price.View Deal
The cheapest Kindle deal on Amazon right now is this excellent discount on the latest Amazon Kindle Kids version. Simply put, this model is functionally the same as the standard Kindle but comes with a Kid-friendly cover, a six-month trial for Amazon Kids Plus, and an extended two-year warranty. Regardless of whether you're a small or big kid, this is a great deal on the baseline Kindle.View Deal
Similar to the above deal on the standard Kindle, the cheapest Kindle Paperwhite deal available at Amazon today is on the Kids Edition variant. Again, the device is functionally the same as the standard Kindle Paperwhite, but you get a themed cover, a six-month trial of Amazon Kids+, and an extended warranty. The main selling point for the Paperwhite over the standard Kindle is that it's waterproof and features a larger seven-inch display.View Deal
The Kindle Colorsoft Kids has reached $189 on two occasions before, but today's deal is a brand-new record-low price on the latest model. While the Colorsoft is pricier than the others, as the name suggests, it has a color display that's fantastic for graphic novels and kids' books. Otherwise, it's very similar to the Paperwhite in that it's waterproof, comes with 12 months of Amazon Kids+, a themed cover, and a two-year guarantee.View Deal
Another top deal from the Amazon Big Spring Sale is the all-new Blink Video Doorbell for only $35.99. The Blink doorbell alerts you when motion is detected and features infrared night vision, two-way audio, a two-year battery life, and an expanded field of view.View Deal
Don’t underestimate its size (and price point, for that matter), because this tiny security camera boasts a hi-res 2K camera and a spotlight for nighttime visibility. Thanks to Amazon's Prime Day sale, you can get the latest version of the security camera for under $20.View Deal
We consider the Outdoor 4 the best outdoor security camera, so we're thrilled that it's available at a massive 65% discount. It's wire-free and satisfyingly simple to set up, with a battery life of up to 2 years. It features a user-friendly app that lets you make the most of 1080p HD video and two-way audio, with additional features available with a Blink subscription.View Deal
If you have wiring for a doorbell, this is an excellent deal on Ring's cheapest doorbell, knocking 50% off the list price. For that amount, you get a Retinal 2K with up to 6x enhanced zoom, live view, and two-way talk.View Deal
I already own the best-selling Ring Video Doorbell and can't imagine living without it. The smart doorbell features a built-in battery and lets you see, hear, and speak to anyone from your phone or computer. Today's Prime Day deal from Amazon is a new record-low price.View Deal
The Ring Battery Video Doorbell Plus offers higher resolution than the standard model, plus color night vision, and it's down to a record-low price of $99.99 in this Prime Day deal, so why not upgrade and treat your home to enhanced security?View Deal
There's a massive 50% discount on the already affordable Ring Indoor Cam at Amazon's Prime Day sale. This plug-in security camera works with Alexa and offers motion detection and real-time notifications, so you can stay up to date on what's happening.View Deal
There's 50% off this easy-to-install Ring Outdoor Cam Plus right now, so you can enjoy a wide field of view in 2K Video for under $60. This plug-in security camera works with Alexa and offers motion detection and real-time notifications, so you can stay up to date on what's happening.View Deal
This Prime Day deal lets you get the Ring Outdoor Camera for $39.99 — that's the lowest price I've ever seen. The Alexa-enabled security camera features motion-activated notifications, two-way talk, and can be placed outside thanks to the weather-resistant design and a battery life of six to twelve months.View Deal
The Ring Floodlight Camera Wired Plus is 50% off at Amazon, bringing the price down to a record-low $89.99. The motion-activated HD camera features two-way talk, customizable motion zones, and notifies your smartphone, tablet, or laptop when motion is detected.View Deal
If you haven't heard, wired headphones are all the rage, which is why Apple's EarPods for $14.88 are an excellent Prime Day deal. A slim, quality-looking design, clear sound, and comfortable fit are just a few of their best qualities. This model works with all devices that have a Lightning connector – which is iPhone 14 and before – so if you've got a newer iPhone, you'll instead want the USB-C version ($16.99 at Amazon).View Deal
The AirPods 4 are Apple's cheapest AirPods, and you can find them on sale for $99, which is the lowest price we've seen this year and just $30 shy of the record-low. The AirPods 4 feature a new design for all-day comfort and feature Apple's H2 chip, which supports personalized spatial audio and voice isolation. You also get a redesigned case with 30 hours of battery life and support for wireless charging via USB-C.
Amazon has the AirPods 4 with active noise cancellation on sale for $148.99, which is the best deal you can find right now. The AirPods 4 feature a new comfortable design, handy controls, and Apple's H2 chip, which supports personalized spatial audio and voice isolation.
This might just be the best Prime Day tech deal - Apple's AirPods Pro 3 for $179.99. Apple's newest premium buds feature improved Active Noise Cancellation, outstanding audio, a comfortable in-ear design, and new features such as live translation and heart-rate tracking. These do-it-all buds really are 100% flagship audio, and the noise-canceling quality is outstanding.View Deal
Amazon has the all-new AirPods Max 2 on sale for $399, which is the lowest price they've ever been. The over-ear headphones now include Apple's H2 chip, which delivers adaptive audio, personalized volume, and improved voice isolation, resulting in superior sound. You're also getting up to 1.5x more Active Noise Cancellation and 20 hours of battery life.
This is the cheapest these have ever been! They've been $56 before, but this chops an extra $3 off that – hurrah! Amazon's listing their most recent $79 fee as a comparison, but make no mistake, their original MSRP is the one you see in this deal. A top saving! Highly recommended. View Deal
In my glowing 4.5-star review of these truly likeable September 2025-issue noise-cancelling over-ears, I said they "could easily cost twice as much", adding "you'll struggle to find a more original set of affordable headphones that offer this much for this little". Well, now that figure has shrunk to just $61.75, a fee our price trackers have never seen until now — their previous all-time low price was $68, just for full clarity. For this money, and as long as the glorious white or light green colorways suit, I wouldn't even hesitate. Highly recommended! View Deal
A moment for the 'fried-egg-meets-cassette-tape' colorway though… yes, it's a look for the bold, but the deal is live on the slightly more demure black or white finishes too, and this March 2026 set of noise cancelling cans doesn't just excite us in the looks department. These aren't to be confused with the slightly disappointing Headphone (1) — no no, this is the greatly improved (and far cheaper) follow-up set. And in our full review, we summarised our thoughts thus: "Now THAT's how you do a second version". This is the cheapest they've ever been, but given that they're barely three months old, that's not surprising… View Deal
Sony's newest mid-range wireless earbuds for less than $80 in Amazon's early Black Friday sale? Yup: this is a real bargain. For this money, you're getting Sony quality for the kind of money you'd expect to pay for a much lesser brand. In our Sony WF-C710N review, we heaped praise on these buds for their bolstered battery life, fantastic sound quality and upgraded ANC. At this price point, my recommending them is a no-brainer – at a third of the price of the high-end Sony WF-1000XM5 earbuds, we think these are the better-value buy.View Deal
This is the first time we've seen this model drop below $200, and though they're not the latest in Sony's lineup, they're still incredibly popular four years after their release. Blending comfort and audio smarts into one device, the XM5s are a highly reliable pair of headphones. View Deal
The Sony WH-1000XM6 headphones are the best Sony headphones around — and this is $20 cheaper than they've ever been! They’ve been co-created with world-renowned audio engineers, so you get fantastic sound clarity and precision. A lightweight carbon fiber dome ensures high fidelity sound and rich vocals. You also get powerful noise-cancelling, along with a six-microphone AI-based beamforming system for great noise reduction on calls. Up to 30 hours of battery life rounds things off nicely. Did I mention this the cheapest they've ever been? Quick! View Deal
The excellent EAH-AZ80 that came before this model basically tore up the rule book on sound quality and features in wireless earbuds – and the AZ100 are even better. Released in January 2025, these little beauties are still the only earbuds to offer multipoint to three devices simultaneously, plus excellent sidetone tech for hearing your own voice in calls, as well as some of the most neutral and detailed audio in an even smaller, even more premium-feel design. Oh, and the deal? It's a return to their lowest-seen price ever. Highly recommended. View Deal
Bose is one of the biggest names in the world of headphones, and that reputation for quality is shown in these earbuds. The Ultra Open boast incredible sound, supreme power, and excellent battery life, making them a seriously premium pair of all-around buds. Now at a record-low price (as long as certain finishes work for you), so there's no better time to buy.View Deal
We awarded them the full five stars in our review, thanks to the brilliant noise cancellation, excellent audio quality, and extremely comfortable design. We had nothing more to say except that they are the 'best active noise-canceling cans for the money.'View Deal
The Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 are our pick for the best running headphones for endurance. So, if you’re running longer distances, these are excellent. The incredibly well-engineered earhook design delivers a secure fit, and the buds offer solid battery life and good sound quality. Today's Prime Day deal is $20 shy of the record-low price.View Deal
The Beats Solo 4 supports lossless audio via USB-C or a 3.5mm audio cable, and Spatial Audio, which uses head tracking to enhance your listening experience. These headphones also last up to 50 hours on a single charge and can regain five hours of playback time in just 10 minutes of charging.View Deal
Grab the highly-rated Beats Studio Pro for $169.95, which is just $10 shy of the all-time record-low price. They're gorgeous-looking, easy to use, and the sound is good (read about it in our Beats Studio Pro review), so if the lack of multipoint pairing (they do auto-switch with Apple devices, though) and wearer detection doesn't bother you, this is a very solid deal.View Deal
Here's an older and fairly basic Chromebook, but this one comes with a welcome bump up to 8GB of RAM to help boost performance. It's still best-suited to general use because of the entry-level processor and limited storage space, but it's up to the job of web browsing, light work, writing documents, and streaming media. Plus, you get the superior battery life of up to 11.5 hours, which is much more compared to similarly priced Windows machines.View Deal
This version of the Acer Chromebook Plus offers an impressive amount of power for the price. It includes 8GB of RAM and an Intel Core i3 processor to boost performance, boot times and load times. Storage of 256GB is fairly average for the price, but battery life is solid at up to 10 hours on a single charge. That's more than enough to last a full working day. At a little over $300, it's a smart buy for school or college, or just as a home laptop for light use and everyday tasks.View Deal
If you want a cheap Windows laptop, then this configuration of the Asus Vivobook Go is an excellent buy and terrific value for money. You get an AMD Ryzen 5 processor, 8GB of RAM and a large 512GB SSD to ensure good overall performance and enough essential speedy storage for the price. It's a top buy right now if you're on a budget and need a laptop for general everyday use, admin tasks, light work, or schoolwork.View Deal
There's a big saving on this Asus Vivobook 14 at Amazon. It's a modern machine, with an efficient Snapdragon X processor, 16GB of RAM and a 512GB SSD, so you have enough power and storage space for everyday jobs. It's a top buy right now if you have a reasonable budget and need a strong mid-range laptop for general use, admin tasks, light work, or schoolwork. It also boasts an incredible 29-hour battery life.View Deal
This may be the older MacBook Air, but it's still a great value, and comfortably holds its own against the newer model. You get 512GB SSD storage and 16GB RAM alongside the speedy M3 chip. This deal knocks 38% off the 13-inch laptop and bring it down to a record-low price.View Deal
Amazon's cheapest Fitbit deal is the ultra-slim Fitbit Inspire 3 on sale for just $79.95 - just $10 more than the record-low price. Made for everyday wear, the Inspire 3 offers 24/7 heart rate monitoring and tracks sleep, workouts, stress, and more.View Deal
Not only is the Fitbit Charge 6 one of our favorite fitness trackers, but it's also one of the best Fitbits overall. The Charge 6 features a sleek design and offers fitness basics, with 41 exercise modes and up to 7 days of battery life. Today's Prime Day deal is a record-low price.View Deal
You can get the feature-packed Fitbit Versa 4 on sale for $139.95. The top-rated smartwatch features a built-in GPS for tracking runs, walks, and bike rides. Plus, it provides a daily readiness score to help you determine whether your body is ready for a workout or recovery, based on helpful insights.View Deal
You can snag a whopping $50 discount on the Fitbit Sense 2, bringing the price down to $197.95. The Sense 2 is one of Fitbit's most advanced health and fitness smartwatches, capable of tracking sleep and stress and featuring smartphone notifications, contactless payments, and GPS.View Deal
Amazon has a $50 discount on the new Apple Watch SE 3, making it an excellent bargain. The Apple Watch SE 2 currently holds the position as the best budget smartwatch, but the SE 3 more than matches it – and it's a smarter buy while it's on sale this week at Amazon.
My favorite Prime Day Apple deal is a $100 discount on the Apple Watch Series 11. The thinnest Apple Watch yet, with a wraparound LTP3 OLED display, it's a great-looking watch with Apple Intelligence-powered smarts and a boosted battery, clocking in at 24 hours of average use.
You can save $100 on the brand-new Apple Watch Ultra 3 at Amazon's Prime Day sale. Packed with premium features, you're getting Cellular connectivity, a boosted 42-hour battery life, and emergency satellite messaging. Today's deal is the lowest price we've seen this year.View Deal
A 4.5-star smartwatch with super-accurate health and activity tracking, as well as AI features. This larger 44mm version has a staggering 38% off, but the smaller 40mm versions start at $229.99 (was $349.99).View Deal
Save an impressive 30% on the Samsung Galaxy Watch8 Classic, with its rotating bezel that lets you scroll through the watch's options in an intuitive way, and resembles that of a classic dive watch. It comes in one size (large, 46mm) with either black and white strap options. View Deal
Save 15% on the Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra in all colorways, including the fetching Titanium Blue version introduced last year. While it's not the best choice for everyone, its power, longevity (up to 100 hours!) and rugged durability means it's well-made for adventurers and triathletes. Watch out, Garmin. View Deal
Here's a chance to get a whopping 50% off the excellent Garmin epix Pro (Gen 2). The 4.5-star smartwatch is an excellent buy for dedicated and enthusiast runners, thanks to its top-tier health tracking and GPS navigation features. You also get a clear AMOLED display with a scratch-resistant sapphire lens and titanium bezel. As far as premium smartwatches go, this one is tough to beat after such a big price cut.View Deal
Welcome to today's live coverage of the best Prime Day tech deals from day one of the sale. My team and I have found over 100 deals on best-selling and top-reviewed tech gadgets that we've bought with our own cash.
Keep in mind while shopping that Amazon's Prime Day tech deals are typically the first offers to sell out. Our advice is that if you see a price you like on a product today, you should add it to your cart and check out before it's too late.
The Apple Watch 11 is on sale for its lowest price - and still in stock!
(Image credit: Future)
Prime Day Apple deals are always the most popular offers, and the best offer might just be the Apple Watch 11 on sale for a record-low price of $279.
The thinnest Apple Watch yet, with a wraparound LTP3 OLED display, it's a great-looking watch with Apple Intelligence-powered smarts and a boosted battery, clocking in at 24 hours of average use.
A Prime Day must-have purchase - Amazon's Fire TV Stick 4K
(Image credit: Future)
The Fire TV Stick 4K Plus is Amazon's best-selling device, and it's a must-have at 50% off, bringing the price down to just $24.99 — a deal so good, I've already purchased it.
Amazon's new Fire TV Stick 4K Plus streams shows and movies on your TV in ultra-high definition 4K resolution. This updated version now supports Dolby Vision, Wi-Fi 6, and includes 2GB of RAM — all for just $25.
I was very excited when I saw this deal - the Oura Ring 4 on sale for a record-low price of $259 - a whopping 48% off and an incredible Prime Day deal that I expect will sell out.
Sleek and comfortable, the Oura Ring 4 is fully titanium, making it built to last and highly durable. You get incredibly accurate data and personalized health insights, from sleep to how active you are throughout the day.
Another incredible Prime Day device deal - the Echo Spot for $45
(Image credit: Amazon)
Amazon devices are always heavily discounted during Prime Day, and I actually purchased this smart speaker alarm clock combo at last year's sale - and it's on sale this year for only $45!
The Echo Spot pairs a 2.83-inch touchscreen with a 1.73-inch front-firing speaker, making it an ideal smart alarm clock. With Alexa onboard, you can ask the assistant for the weather, play music, or even schedule alarms.
The LG C5 OLED is TechRadar's best-rated TV, and we can't recommend it enough if you're looking for a feature-packed, gorgeous display. Amazon's Prime Day sale has slashed $1,400 off the list price, bringing it down to a record low.
Awarded five out of five stars in our review, the LG C5 OLED display delivers an outstanding picture thanks to LG's Alpha 9 AI processor Gen8, impressive gaming features, and a comprehensive smart platform featuring all-new AI capabilities.
Not only does the entry-level Kindle come in the ultra-elegant shade of Matcha, but it's also on sale for Prime Day for just $84.99.
The base Kindle packs in all the essential features, including faster page turns on a 6-inch glare-free screen. You also get 16GB of storage, which means plenty of room for books. And if you don't want a pop of color, it's also available in black.
Hatch Restore 3 alarm clock for a record-low price
(Image credit: Hatch)
The Hatch Restore 3 alarm clock is another Prime Day best-seller as it's rarely discounted, and it's on sale today for a record-low price.
This combination sunrise alarm clock and sound machine is designed to help you fall asleep more effortlessly and wake up easier with routines, excellent soundtracks, and intelligent features that can help keep you in your rhythm. It features a modern design so that I won't mind it on our bedside table.
The Sony WH-1000XM5 have hit their lowest-ever price, dropping to just $198. This is the first time we've seen them for under $200, so you're getting superb value here.
Great noise cancellation, smart ambient modes, a super-comfortable fit, stylish looks, and rich and detailed sound. At this price, this Prime Day deal is in danger of selling out.
Finally, Apple's newest AirTag is on sale for Prime Day
(Image credit: Lance Ulanoff / Future)
Amazon's Prime Day sale has treated us to a first-time discount on Apple's second-generation AirTag. You can find deals on a single AirTag or a 4-pack, starting at just $24.
Apple's second-generation AirTag with louder sound, a 50% improvmenet in range for Precision Finding, and the rest of the features that made the first-gen such a great item tracker are at the lowest price ever ahead of Prime Day 2026. Right now, Amazon has a single AirTag for just $24 – a savings of $5. View Deal
Amazon's also discounting a pack of four second-generation AirTags to the lowest price ever. Right now, the four Apple AirTags are down to just $89, a savings of $10, and it brings the cost of each one down to around $22.View Deal
A true tech essential for $8.49
(Image credit: Amazon)
Sure, this wall charger doesn't offer the biggest discount, but $8.49 for a device with five AC sockets, four USB-A sockets, and one USB-C socket is a bargain even at full price.
I've been extremely impressed with this year's Prime Day TV deals; case in point: Amazon's 55-inch 4-series 4K Fire TV at a record-low price of $279.95.
You're getting 4K resolution, HDR10 Plus, and Dolby Audio, offering an excellent all-around package and incredible value.
A top-rated smart security camera for $28? Yes, please!
(Image credit: Future)
Amazon has slashed the price of the Blink Outdoor 4 Camera, which I won and love, by an impressive 65%, bringing it down to just $28! There are bundle offers for up to eight cameras, too, if you need a full home security system.
The Blink Outdoor 4 is an easy and affordable way to add smart home tech to your house, with its long-lasting 2-year battery, wireless setup, and included sync module that lets you respond to visitors, get alerts, and browse footage on your phone.
If you're looking for Apple's cheapest AirPods, the all-new AirPods 4 are on sale for just $99.
The AirPods 4 feature a new design for all-day comfort and feature Apple's H2 chip, which supports personalized spatial audio and voice isolation. You also get a redesigned case with 30 hours of battery life and USB-C wireless charging support.
If you have wiring for a doorbell, this is an excellent deal on Ring's cheapest doorbell, knocking 50% off the list price. For that amount, you get a Retinal 2K with up to 6x enhanced zoom, live view, and two-way talk - an absolute bargain for $40.
Need a cheap smart security camera? The best-selling Blink Mini 2 is on sale for a record-low price of just $13.
The compact security camera features two-way audio and will alert your phone when motion is detected. The Blink 2 also features a 1080p HD live view, color night vision with a built-in spotlight, and a wider field of view.
Apple's best-selling iPad in stock and on sale for $299
(Image credit: Future)
Amazon's Prime Day sale has Apple's best-selling 11-inch iPad back in stock and on sale for $299, just $20 more than the record-low price.
The latest entry-level tablet features the powerful A16 chipset, making it an excellent choice for everyday tasks such as browsing, shopping, and watching content.
Reminder, you'll need a Prime membership to be eligible
(Image credit: Amazon)
Reminder that most of today's deals are exclusive to Prime members. If you aren't a member, don't fret. You can simply take advantage of the 30-day free trial to get instant access to everything.
The all-new AirPods Max 2 at their lowest-ever price
(Image credit: Future/Jacob Krol)
The Apple Prime Day deals keep on delivering! The retailer has the brand-new AirPods Max 2 on sale at its lowest price yet.
These premium cans, which we awarded and impressive 4.5-stars in our review, offer excellent audio quality, top-tier noise-cancelation, and handy features like Live Translation.
Amazon only entered the crowded art TV market a few months back with the Ember Artline TV. Now it's $200 off for Prime Day, at the lowest price ever for the 55-inch size, and it outpaces the Samsung Frame TV with two key differentiators.
Firstly, it comes with the frame to complete the Art TV effect out of the box. And second, you don't need to subscribe to a special art plan to display works of art. Instead, the Ember Artline TV has over 2,000 pieces of artwork for free out of the box.
If you have an iPhone Air and wish the battery life were a bit better, Apple does indeed make an accessory to help solve that. The aptly named iPhone Air MagSafe Battery magnetically attaches to the back and even integrates with iOS to let you easily see the remaining percentage.
And right now, for Prime Day, it's 40% off and sitting at the lowest price we've tracked
Apple’s AirPods Pro 3 are on sale for $179, just $10 more than the record-low price we saw briefly a few days ago.
They refine the iconic design with a more secure fit, boost battery life to about 8 hours without a listening mode or 10 hours with one, support Spatial Audio, and deliver strong noise cancellation.
(Image credit: Future / Hisense / Edited with Gemini)
If you've been watching the World Cup and thinking your current setup doesn't quite cut it for the best experience, here's a huge TV upgrade I'd recommend.
You can get $1,000 off the fantastic Hisense U7, one of the best-value Mini-LED TVs you can buy. Offering fantastic picture quality, vivid colors, strong brightness, and a responsive display, it's exactly what you need to enjoy fast-moving sports on a big screen.
Finding a deal on an SSD has been tough in the last nine months, as prices have skyrocketed along with the ongoing RAM crisis. Unfortunately, I'm not here to say that things have got much better, but there is a price cut on this Samsung 990 Pro right now. It's still far from the record-low of previous years, but in this deal drought on lots of PC components, we'll have to take it right now.
One of my favorite Prime Day deals is the best-selling Blink Video Doorbell at its lowest price ever – just $23.99.
The Blink doorbell alerts you when motion is detected and features infrared night vision, two-way audio, a two-year battery life, and an expanded field of view.
The Frame TV is always a big Prime Day hit, and this is an excellent price for the set, with its smart separate connections box, lovely frame, and rich colors. And you get access to Samsung's impressive art selection, of course.
The Ninja Creami ice cream maker was a best-selling product in last year's Prime Day savings event, and the Deluxe model is just $199.99 right now.
A dream come true for summer months — with a touch of a button, you can make ice cream, milkshakes, yogurts, and sorbets, and add your favorite mix-ins and flavors.
The Sony WH-1000XM5 has returned to its lowest-ever price at just $198. This isn't the first time we've seen them for under $200, but you're getting superb value here.
Great noise cancellation, smart ambient modes, a super-comfortable fit, a stylish design, and rich, detailed sound.
Late night shopping? James Pickard here, checking in for the early hours to share more of the best deals from this year's Prime Day sale. I'll be picking up where my pals left off while they take a well-earned break. Let's see what's out there, then.
We've just tipping over into the second day of this year's Amazon Prime Day sale. That could mean we'll see some fresh deals, so I'll make another pass through Amazon's sale section to see if anything new and exciting has popped up.
Earbud and headphone Prime Day deals with up to 50% off
(Image credit: Future)
The TechRadar team is busy checking retail listings to see if the best Prime Day deals we've found so far are still live, so I'm going to step in to make sure you're seeing all their good work. Amelia here taking over to flag up our audio editor's round-up of the best discounted earbuds and headphones you can buy right now. The cheapest on the list is the Nothing Ear (a) at the time of writing.
The Garmin Venu 4 41mm is available at its lowest-ever price on Amazon, where the 45mm model is also discounted by $50. It's been a year since we last saw the best Garmin watch for most people at this price, so we wouldn't sleep on this deal.
The Oura Ring 4 has never looked so appealing thanks to a close to 50% discount, bringing it to a record low price. While the newer Ring 5 is out and marks a significant step up with a smaller, redesigned form factor, it also comes with a higher price tag at launch, so we wouldn't expect a deal on that anytime soon.
Overwhelmed by all the Amazon Echo deals this Prime Day?
(Image credit: Future / Amazon / Edited by Gemini)
We don't blame you, because there are a lot of Echo speakers and displays in the range to choose from. With a lot of the models on sale, our resident Amazon Echo speaker expert has put together a handy quiz to help you decide which Prime Day deal is right for you.
You can upgrade your old TV for less than $16
(Image credit: Future)
The Amazon Fire TV Stick HD might not offer 4K Ultra HD picture, but if you've got an older TV that doesn't matter too much because it might not even support this resolution. If that's you, then this is the Amazon Fire TV Stick deal for you, especially at a record low price.
Avoid the Apple price hikes with this MacBook Air deal
(Image credit: Future)
This 14% off saving isn't the cheapest we've seen the MacBook Air 13-inch with an M5 chip — we have spotted it at $899.99 before — but considering that Apple CEO Tim Cook said that "price increases are unavoidable" earlier this month, we recommend jumping on any offers you can find.
Josephine Watson's latest TikTok video is perfect viewing if you're on the hunt for some Apple bargains. She's rounded-up three of the best Apple deals she can find in the video below. Make sure to follow us wherever you get your social content for more!
Prime Day always sees Amazon's own products heavily discounted, and this year is no different with the full range of Kindle e-readers on sale. The cheapest model is the standard Amazon Kindle, which also happens to be the one I own. If you don't need extra features like a color display or the ability to take notes, then it's a great value buy.
Yes, Amazon’s Prime Day 2026 sale is in full swing, and it’s a full four-day affair this time around, meaning it won’t come to an end until midnight on June 26, 2026. And beyond Lego sets, the best TVs, coffee machines, and other kitchen gadgets, there’s a good chance you’re eyeing some savings on Apple gear.
From AirPods Pro 3 and the entry-level iPad to MacBooks, Apple Watches, and iPhones, many of these devices top our lists of the very best products you can buy, Apple or not. And lucky for all of us, Amazon is delivering some of the best prices on these gadgets we’ve ever tracked. Heck, with AirPods Pro 3 specifically, we’ve seen Amazon and Walmart battling it out for the lowest price.
I’ve reviewed and gone hands-on with many of Apple’s gadgets, and other experts here at TechRadar have as well. So below, I’m rounding up the 10 best Apple deals to shop this Prime Day.
Apple's second-generation AirTag with louder sound, a 50% improvement in range for Precision Finding, and the rest of the features that made the first-gen such a great item tracker are at the lowest price ever for Prime Day 2026. Right now, Amazon has a single AirTag for just $24 – a savings of $5.
Amazon's also discounting a pack of four second-generation AirTags to the lowest price ever. Right now, the four Apple AirTags are down to just $89, a saving of $10, and it brings the cost of each one down to around $22.
This might just be the best Prime Day tech deal: Apple's AirPods Pro 3 for $179.99. Apple's newest premium buds feature improved Active Noise Cancellation, outstanding audio, a comfortable in-ear design, and new features such as live translation and heart-rate tracking. These do-it-all buds really are 100% flagship audio, and the noise-canceling quality is great.
Amazon has the all-new AirPods Max 2 on sale for $399, which is the lowest price we've seen. The over-ear headphones now include Apple's H2 chip, which delivers adaptive audio, personalized volume, and improved voice isolation, resulting in superior sound. You're also getting up to 1.5x more Active Noise Cancellation and 20 hours of battery life.
The Apple Watch SE 3 is back to its lowest price ever for Prime Day 2026. Apple's entry-level smartwatch is currently our pick for the best Apple Watch to buy if you're on a budget, as it delivers a full health and fitness tracking experience, all the convenient on-wrist features you need, and that familiar Apple style, but at a fraction of the price.
Back at its lowest price ever, the feature-filled Apple Watch Series 11 is a record $120 off on Amazon for Prime Day, with the 42mm GPS variant in Space Gray, Jet Black, Rose Gold, and Silver Aluminum. Under the hood, it's powered by the S10 chip, which will support the new watchOS 27 software, and it offers all-day battery life that can go the extra mile.
Apple's latest base iPad is on sale for $299, which is only $15 more than the record-low price. The most significant upgrade for this model versus the previous generation is the newer A16 chip for faster performance, but you'll also get double the storage as standard (128GB instead of 64GB). Other features include a sharp 11-inch Liquid Retina display and solid 12MP front- and rear-facing cameras, making this iPad the best iPad for casual streamers and scrollers.
Amazon has the newest iPad Air with the M4 chipset on sale for $519 right now. In addition to Apple's superfast brain, this iPad features a crisp Liquid Retina display, 128GB of storage as standard, 12MP front and rear cameras, and support for Apple's AI features.
With an impressive $150 discount, this Prime Day deal addresses our main complaint about the M5 Air: it's pricier than the previous model. Now, you're getting the latest chipset, 16GB of RAM, and a bigger 512GB SSD for much less, with a price that (arguably) challenges even the budget MacBook Neo when it comes to outright value. It's a workhorse.
For creative professionals, the 14-inch MacBook Pro powered by the performance-driven M5 Pro chip is the one to choose. This beast flies through demanding workloads like video editing without skipping a beat.
Modern AIO coolers now contain hardware resembling miniature computers
Large displays are becoming common features in premium liquid coolers
MCUs now power advanced features inside modern cooling systems
Modern all-in-one (AIO) liquid coolers are increasingly resembling miniature computing platforms rather than simple hardware designed to move heat away from processors.
Several newly announced models now incorporate color displays approaching smartphone dimensions, complete with monitoring software, animations, and multimedia capabilities.
In some cases, the screens attached to CPU cooling systems are larger than the 4.7-inch display found on Apple's iPhone SE.
Tiny computers are now embedded inside cooling hardware
An example comes from ASUS, whose ROG Strix SLC IV incorporates a detachable 6.67-inch curved AMOLED display running at 2400 × 1080 resolution.
The company also offers the ROG Strix LC IV with a smaller 3.5-inch IPS panel, though both products retain extensive customization features.
Driving these displays requires considerably more than a simple temperature sensor because the screens must process graphics, animations, telemetry information, and user inputs.
Behind such displays sits a microcontroller, commonly called an MCU, which is effectively a complete computer integrated onto a single chip.
An MCU has its own processor, memory, storage resources, and input output functions, allowing it to operate independently within larger devices.
Twenty years ago, a high-end CPU cooler was little more than a large metal heatsink paired with one or two fans.
Modern flagship AIOs increasingly incorporate MCUs, wireless connectivity, high-resolution displays, RGB controllers, dedicated software ecosystems, and even video playback capabilities.
The result is an entertaining rise in complexity, with display-equipped coolers now relying on tiny computers to manage their advanced features.
As functionality expands, prices have also climbed, turning what was once a relatively straightforward component into one of the most feature-laden devices inside a modern PC.
This trend extends beyond ASUS as manufacturers increasingly compete through aesthetics rather than solely emphasizing thermal performance improvements.
JONSBO's TM-280 includes a 3.95-inch IPS screen capable of displaying hardware statistics, animated GIF files, images, and MP4 video playback.
Meanwhile, ASRock's Challenger Digital models integrate 3-inch LCD panels displaying processor temperatures, clock speeds, and pump operating information.
Antec has moved even further with the Vortex View 360, featuring a rotatable 5-inch IPS display operating at 1280 × 720 resolution.
Cooling performance now shares space with entertainment features
Manufacturers still improve thermal hardware through faster pumps, larger radiators, enhanced fan designs, and supplementary motherboard cooling solutions.
ASUS incorporates a small VRM cooling fan, while JONSBO rates its TM-280 for processors reaching thermal loads of 285W TDP.
Yet the most visible developments increasingly involve screens, lighting effects, wireless connectivity, software ecosystems, and display customization capabilities.
MSI recently introduced a fabric-covered cooler concealing a display beneath its exterior, illustrating how appearance has become increasingly influential.
Several of these products now depend upon dedicated software suites, internal USB connections, specialized controller hubs, and proprietary communication interfaces.
The ASUS wireless display implementation even relies upon a motherboard connection system carrying power, control signals, and data through dedicated contacts.
The evolution remains entertaining because these cooling components have transformed into feature-rich hardware that can justify higher prices for enthusiasts building showcase systems.
Some users, however, may question whether such additions are necessary for hardware whose primary purpose remains cooling a processor.
Building a gaming PC from scratch with an RTX 5070 still costs you a significant chunk of change when you factor in every component. That’s what makes the MSI Codex R2 at $1690 (was $2300) at Amazon such a compelling deal right now.
Here, you get a complete, ready-to-game desktop built around Nvidia’s GeForce RTX 5070 12GB GDDR7, an Intel Core i5-14400F, 32GB of DDR5-6000 RAM, and a 1TB NVMe SSD. No sourcing parts, no assembly, no compatibility headaches.
The RTX 5070 is Nvidia’s Blackwell-architecture mid-to-high-end card, featuring 12GB of GDDR7 memory with 168 GB/s bandwidth and full support for DLSS 4 Multi Frame Generation — giving video editors and 3D animators exactly what's needed for multi-stream workflows in real time.
Today's top MSI desktop deal
This is the pre-built for someone who wants to sit down and game the same day it arrives, without spending a weekend sourcing parts. It’s got the RTX 5070 — Nvidia’s latest generation GPU with 12GB of fast GDDR7 memory and DLSS 4 support — paired with a capable Intel Core i5-14400F, 32GB of DDR5-6000 RAM, and a 1TB NVMe SSD. The chassis has a dedicated RGB CPU air cooler and four-fan airflow system, an 80+ Gold certified PSU, Wi-Fi 6E, and Windows 11 Home pre-installed. All standard off-the-shelf components, so upgrading storage, RAM, or the GPU down the road is straightforward.View Deal
The RTX 5070 is built on Nvidia’s Blackwell architecture — the same generation as the flagship RTX 5090 — and brings meaningful improvements over the RTX 4070 it replaces. The 12GB GDDR7 frame buffer operates at significantly higher bandwidth than GDDR6X, and the new Transformer-based AI model underpinning DLSS 4 produces noticeably sharper upscaled images than DLSS 3. Multi Frame Generation, exclusive to Blackwell cards.
The Intel Core i5-14400F is a 10-core, 16-thread Raptor Lake chip with a 4.7GHz boost clock. It’s not the flashiest processor on paper, but in the context of a PC for creative professionals, it does exactly what’s needed: keeps the RTX 5070 fed with data without bottlenecking workloads. The 32GB of DDR5-6000 RAM is a notably generous allocation — most pre-builts at this price ship with 16GB, and 32GB gives you meaningful headroom for multi-tasking, streaming, and future-proofing.
The four-fan airflow system and dedicated RGB CPU air cooler are designed to keep temperatures stable across long sessions. MSI's own pitch is that your performance at hour one is identical to hour five — a common pain point with pre-builts that use minimal cooling to hit a price target. The mesh-style front panel on the Codex R2 chassis significantly increases airflow compared to the solid panels on previous Codex generations.
The 80+ Gold certified PSU is a detail worth calling out explicitly. A lot of pre-builts in this price range ship with 80+ Bronze or unrated power supplies that can cause stability issues under sustained GPU load, or leave no headroom for a GPU upgrade later. 80+ Gold certification means the PSU is at least 87% efficient at full load, runs cooler, and is rated for the kind of power draw the RTX 5070 demands.
Wi-Fi 6E is included for wireless connectivity on the less-congested 6GHz band, which delivers lower latency and faster speeds than Wi-Fi 5 or standard Wi-Fi 6 in busy networks — useful if you can’t hardwire the desktop to your router. MSI Center software gives you a single dashboard for controlling RGB lighting, fan curves, and performance profiles without hunting through multiple utilities.
One honest note: the i5-14400F is a 14th-gen Intel chip rather than the newer Core Ultra series, which means it doesn’t have an integrated NPU for Copilot+ features. For gaming that’s completely irrelevant, but if you also use your PC for AI-accelerated creative workloads, it’s worth being aware of. The standard off-the-shelf component spec does mean you can drop in a Core Ultra CPU or a future GPU upgrade without any proprietary restrictions, which partially offsets that.
At this price, the MSI Codex R2 is one of the most straightforward ways to get an RTX 5070 desktop right now without a self-built PC. Check out more options in our guide to the best business computers.
Amazon Prime Day isn't just about big-ticket gadgets because there are also terrific savings to be had on USB wall chargers that can tidy your desk, speed up charging, and keep multiple devices powered from a single outlet.
Whether you need a premium GaN charger or a budget-friendly spare, these deals cover every price range.
Anker's Prime 67W GaN wall charger has dropped to $39.99, saving a decent 20% on a compact charger with two USB-C ports and one USB-A port. It can power up to three devices at once while taking up far less space than many laptop chargers, making it a nifty travel companion.
Today's top USB wall charger deals
Anker's Prime 67W GaN wall charger packs two USB-C ports and one USB-A port into a body that's 51% smaller than Apple's original 67W charger. Now $39.99 with a 20% discount, it delivers fast charging for up to three devices at once.View Deal
YYDBS's two-pack of 20W fast wall chargers includes 6ft and 10ft MFi-certified Lightning cables, giving you everything needed to charge two devices straight from the box. At just $11.99 for the bundle, it's an inexpensive way to add fast charging to your home, office, or travel bag.View Deal
This three-pack of dual-port USB wall chargers delivers six charging ports for just $8.99 after a 25% discount. Compact enough for travel and equipped with built-in safety protection, these adapters can charge two devices simultaneously.View Deal
This two-pack USB wall chargers offers dependable 5V/2A charging for just $7.99, making it an inexpensive way to replace aging adapters around the house. They're compact, lightweight, and compatible with a huge range of phones and tablets.View Deal
If you want everything in one package, YYDBS has a two-pack of 20W fast chargers with 6ft and 10ft MFi-certified Lightning cables for just $11.99.
The dual-port adapters can charge two devices simultaneously, giving you a simple charging setup for home and the office.
Luoatip's three-pack of dual USB wall chargers is another excellent budget option at only $8.99 after a 25% discount.
With six USB ports across three compact adapters, there's enough charging capacity for bedrooms, kitchens, desks, and travel bags without spending much at all.
They offer dependable 5V/2A charging for phones, tablets, earbuds, and other USB-powered devices, making them perfect as spare adapters to leave around the house or pack in your luggage.
A good charger can last for years, and Prime Day is one of the best opportunities to replace older adapters without paying full price.
Whether you need high-speed USB-C charging for a laptop or inexpensive plugs for everyday devices, these Amazon deals offer plenty of ways to upgrade your charging setup for less.
That's a 15% saving on one of the most popular high-performance external drives on the market, and even boasts an IP65 rating for durability. For UK readers, it's got a slightly smaller discount, with the Extreme Pro now £202 (was £210).
Thanks to its NVMe-based architecture and USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 connectivity, the drive is rated for read and write speeds of up to 2,000MB/s. In practical terms, that means significantly faster file transfers than traditional portable hard drives and many entry-level SSDs.
Today's top SanDisk portable SSD deal
The SanDisk Extreme Pro Portable SSD has long been one of my favorite portable drives, offering fast read and write speeds of up to 2000MB/sec. with a compact design and IP55 water and dust resistance.
Whether you're moving large photo libraries, backing up projects, editing video, or carrying a game library between devices, the Extreme Pro will minimize waiting around.
The drive features a forged aluminum chassis that doubles as a heatsink to help keep up performance during sustained transfers.
It's rated for up to three meters of drop protection and carries an IP65 rating for water and dust resistance, making it a solid choice for photographers, content creators and professionals who regularly work away from a desk.
Built-in 256-bit AES hardware encryption and password protection help keep sensitive files secure, while the SanDisk Memory Zone app can assist with file management and freeing up storage space on connected devices.
With more than 16,000 customer ratings and an average score of 4.5 stars on Amazon, the Extreme Pro has a rightly deserved strong reputation among users who need reliable, high-speed portable storage.
Sure, $178.49 isn't exactly a budget purchase, but Prime Day's discount makes it a more attractive choice for anyone seeking a rugged, fast external SSD that will remain useful for years to come.
Samsung's T9 Portable SSD delivers blazing-fast transfer speeds of up to 2,000MB/s via USB 3.2 Gen 2x2. Compact and durable, it's an excellent choice for students and professionals who need fast, reliable portable storage.
This ultracompact 2TB portable SSD offers transfer speeds of up to 1,050MB/s and supports Apple ProRes 4K 60fps recording. With IP65-rated dust and water resistance, it's a great choice for creators.
Both Croatia and Panama are coming off defeats in their opening games, making their World Cup 2026 encounter at Toronto Stadium a must-win clash. Realistically, the loser will struggle to reach the knockout phase.
Though Los Canaleros are still chasing their first-ever World Cup point, they'll take confidence from the resilience shown against Ghana, only to be denied by a late goal deep into second-half stoppage time. Thomas Christiansen's side, now 40th in the world according to FIFA's live rankings, are physical and dangerous at set pieces and will draw inspiration from their impressive run to the final of the 2025 CONCACAF Nations League. Ismael Diaz will be their danger man.
The experienced Croatia, meanwhile, are coming off one of the most entertaining matches of the tournament so far against England. Although the 4-2 scoreline may look disappointing, the Vatreni showed plenty of attacking intent and caused England countless first-half problems to go into half-time level. Rectifying mistakes post-interval will be vital. All eyes will be on Luka Modric, who is playing in his fifth World Cup. Three points here would secure at least a third-place finish for Zlatko Dalic's men, the 2018 runners-up and 2022 semi-finalists.
So, read on as we show you exactly how to watch Panama vs Croatia for free from anywhere in the FIFA World Cup 2026.
How to watch Panama vs Croatia for free
Panama vs Croatia is available to watch for free in multiple countries, including the UK, Australia, Brazil, Belgium, Ireland, Netherlands, Switzerland and Turkey.
Abroad? Can't access your free stream? Unblock your free World Cup stream with Norton VPN — more on that below.
Use a VPN to watch Panama vs Croatia live streams
It’s the World Cup, and if you’re traveling, you might discover your usual Panama vs Croatia stream is suddenly unavailable due to geo-restrictions.
Don’t worry, that’s exactly where a VPN can help. A virtual private network lets you connect to servers around the world so you can securely access your usual World Cup coverage as if you were back home.
Watch your free World Cup stream without limits. Norton VPN delivers fast, secure connections with global servers, so you can stream from anywhere with ease.
💰 60-day money-back guarantee 🔓 Unlocks World Cup streams
Don’t miss a second. Stream the World Cup from anywhere with total confidence.View Deal
How to watch Panama vs Croatia in the US
US viewers can watch Panama vs Croatia on Fox and Telemundo (Spanish comms).
Defenders: Josko Gvardiol (Manchester City), Duje Caleta-Car (Real Sociedad), Josip Sutalo (Ajax Amsterdam), Josip Stanisic (Bayern Munich), Marin Pongracic (Fiorentina), Martin Erlic (Midtjylland), Luka Vuskovic (Hamburg)
Midfielders: Luka Modric (AC Milan), Mateo Kovacic (Manchester City), Mario Pasalic (Atalanta), Nikola Vlasic (Torino), Luka Sucic (Real Sociedad), Martin Baturina (Como), Kristijan Jakic (Augsburg), Petar Sucic (Inter Milan), Nikola Moro (Bologna), Toni Fruk (Rijeka)
Forwards: Ivan Perisic (PSV Eindhoven), Andrej Kramaric (Hoffenheim), Ante Budimir (Osasuna), Marco Pasalic (Orlando City), Petar Musa (Dallas), Igor Matanovic (Freiburg)
Group L Table
Position
Team
GD
Points
1
England
2
3
2
Ghana
1
3
3
Panama
-1
0
4
Croatia
-2
0
Can I watch Panama vs Croatia on my mobile?
Of course, most broadcasters have streaming services that you can access through mobile apps or via your phone's browser.
You can also stay up-to-date with all of the key World Cup moments on the official social media channels on X/Twitter (@FIFAWorldCup), Instagram (@FIFAWorldCup), TikTok (@FIFAWorldCup) and YouTube (@FIFA).
We test and review VPN services in the context of legal recreational uses. For example:1. Accessing a service from another country (subject to the terms and conditions of that service).2. Protecting your online security and strengthening your online privacy when abroad.We do not support or condone the illegal or malicious use of VPN services. Consuming pirated content that is paid-for is neither endorsed nor approved by Future Publishing.
AiOnX takes 77% share in US-based cryptocurrency miner
The deal sees it take control of 15 data centers in the US and Sweden
The $500 million acquisition sees it secure access to 1.3 Gigawatts of power, an increasingly scarce commodity for AI datacenters
AiOnX, a major data center infrastructure developer focused on hyperscalers across Europe, has taken a majority stake in the US-based cryptocurrency mining firm Genesis Digital Assets.
The transaction, valued at $500 million, sees its parent company, SWI Group, take a 77% stake in GDA, and gives it control over 15 cryptomining data centers across the US and Sweden - and perhaps more importantly, access to 1.3 Gigawatts of available power.
The agreement encompassing 15 data centers across North Carolina, South Carolina, and Texas, as well as two sites in Sweden.
A faster buildout with ready access to power
The move by SWI Group was reported by DataCenterDynamics, which said a deal was in the works between SWI and a then-unnamed US cryptomining entity.
It seems to have been dictated by GDA's access to readily available power, even as most hyperscaler buildouts continue to struggle with their own power limitations, and as studies indicate it could eventually stall AI datacenter growth by as early as 2030.
The reason for GDA making for a relatively no-brainer acquisition by SWI, thanks to its power connectivity.
"Power connectivity is the most valuable commodity in digital infrastructure today, and converting legacy cryptocurrency mining infrastructure to AI and high-performance computing is the best and highest use of these assets," noted SWI founder and CEO, Max-Hervé George.
"We have been investing in power-connectivity since 2020. This is what that thesis looks like at scale."
This is not an isolated move, however, with many cryptocurrency miners now pivoting to or getting outright acquired by AI hyperscalers as demand for compute, and, in tandem, power continues unabated as models get larger over time.
The reason is that not only is cryptomining relatively unprofitable compared to AI workloads that rent out GPUs under long-term contracts, but it is also inconsistent, given that cryptocurrency prices tend to fluctuate, making for an unpredictable payday for cryptominers, many of whom are heavily infused with debt to cover their scaling needs.
While modern crypto ASICs can not be repurposed for AI needs, the power they consume, much of which is locked in via long-term contracts, is much more valuable for AI datacenters since their power needs are already taken care of and available on-site, versus many otherwise ambitious and time-consuming power generation projects that some hyperscalers have directly been forced to invest in.
For context, as per estimates by Coindesk, AI contracts offer margins of as much as 85% with multi-year revenue visibility in tow, making cryptomining, even as hashrates continue to climb, while Bitcoin remains below $70,000, reflecting a broader crypto market that some feel has already entered a bear-induced winter.
In case you missed it, Rockstar Games has finally announced that GTA 6 pre-orders will go live on Thursday, 25th June, which has opened the floodgates of excitement and relief, as the feared potential delays have now been put to bed.
However, there's one major factor that we'll have to wait to find out on the very day, and that's how much GTA 6 will cost for PS5, Xbox Series X, and Xbox Series S. Rumors based on recent Portuguese retailer listings suggest we could see a potential £80 / $100 price tag for the standard edition, but there's still no confirmation.
At the very least, we can predict that Rockstar's blockbuster title will hit the £70 region. Regardless, there's bound to be an influx of console users looking for the best way to save on gaming's biggest event in 2026 — and if you're a PS5 user, you're in luck.
(Image credit: Rockstar / PlayStation)
The £70 PlayStation Store gift card gives users access to a choice of one among a huge catalog of PlayStation's first-party exclusives and other third-party games, and serves as a bargain leading into GTA 6's pre-order day.View Deal
Fortunately, the £70 PlayStation Store gift card is available on ShopTo for £60.85 (was £70), thanks to a significant 13% discount. Effectively, you'll be paying the previous standard £59.99 price model for £70 games — and in this case, you'll save a significant amount on GTA 6.
If Rockstar matches Nintendo's £79.99 price standard, the £10 PlayStation Store gift card, available for £9.85 (was £10), will come in handy for buyers. Luckily, all gift cards are discounted at ShopTo, and better yet, ShopTo users with 'Gold' or 'Silver' memberships can get further discounts at checkout.
It's worth taking a gamble now with securing the wallet funds, as discounted gift cards at multiple retailers like ShopTo are likely going to skyrocket in demand, so now may be the last chance to secure your GTA 6 purchase at the lowest possible price.
The Garmin Venu 4 is a great Garmin watch, but it doesn't necessarily look like a Garmin. Most people think of the lumpy black Fenix, Forerunner, and Instinct ranges, but the Venu series has always been a bit sleeker, just at home in the office as it is on the trail or in the gym.
Consequently, I labeled it my 'best Garmin watch for most people' when I reviewed it in October last year, and that remains my opinion due to its status as the ideal all-rounder watch: enough features to satisfy everyone but die-hard trail enthusiasts and orienteers, and an understated look ideal for modern life. It was my opinion when the watch was full price, and it's definitely still my opinion now that it's hit a lowest-ever price during the Amazon Prime Day sales.
Check out the deals in full below. Not in the US or the UK? Scroll down for the best deals in your area.
Today's best Garmin Venu 4 deals
Right now you can save $50 on both 41mm and 45mm Garmin Venu 4 models, in a variety of colors: Black and Lunar Gold for the 41mm, Grey and Citron for the 45mm. Up to 10 days of battery life, great workout and wellness tracking, and lots of Garmin Connect IQ third-party app support. View Deal
Are you after something a little cheaper? The Garmin Vivoactive 5 is a similar all-rounder fitness tracker, albeit less premium and older than the Garmin Venu 4. Where the Venu uses metal, the Vivoactive uses plastic, and the Vivoactive uses an older heart rate sensor. It misses out on a few key smartwatch features such as the voice assistant and some more advanced workout metrics. However, it's currently very affordable and is a great budget alternative.
The Garmin Vivoactive 5is a fantastic all-rounder fitness smartwatch with tonnes of workout plans, a crisp AMOLED display, onboard GPS, and 11 days of battery life. At this price, you'll be hard-pressed to find a better-performing watch for general fitness, health, and exercise tracking.View Deal
A lowest-ever price on the Garmin Vivoactive 5 means there's never been a better time to snap this up. Garmin's comprehensive and (still mostly free) app has served me well for years, while the Vivoactive 5 at this price is an easly swallow for Fitbit users used to cheaper devices. View Deal
Want a weird and wonderful way to upgrade your gaming PC? Then you might want to consider the Corsair Xeneon Edge, which has had a $50 price cut from a variety of retailers, and is still in stock on Corsair's own website.
The Corsair Xeneon Edge is a slim 14.5-inch touchscreen display with a 2560 x 720 resolution, and can plug into your PC via USB-C or HDMI. It can show off various apps and widgets, and also displays important information about your PC, such as the temperatures of your components.
You can even mount it in your PC's case (Corsair make compatible cases, but you can do a bit of DIY and attach it to any case) for an eye-catching visual, and a great way to keep an eye on your PC's vitals whilst playing.
The fact that it's so versatile makes the Corsair Xeneon Edge a popular, if niche, product, and the new price (down from $249.99 to $199.99) seems to have given it a boost in popularity, so don't hang about if you're looking for a cool new way to make your PC stand out (whilst also being genuinly useful).
Today's best Corsair Xeneon Edge deal
With a 2560 x 720 60Hz 14.5-inch LCD touchscreen, the Corsair Xeneon Edge is a cool addition to your PC gaming setup. You can use it to display app shortcuts (handy for live streamers), show vital statistics of your PC, and if you have a lot of Corsair products you can control them via its iCUE integration. It's sold out at Best Buy, so other retailers might run out as well.View Deal
I test 4K Blu-ray for a living, and while I test and recommend brand new discs each month as part of the Blu-ray Bounty, I thought I'd offer some recommendations from my own personal collection, covering a wide range of genres.
Starting off with The Batman, I use this disc for testing the best TVs because it's visually striking and sounds fantastic (especially the Batmobile scene). Next up is The Lord Of The Rings, which almost needs no introduction. Epic in every sense, 4K is the best these iconic movies have ever looked and sounded.
In a similar gloomy vein to The Batman, The Crow (1994) is crisp, refined and super impressive on 4K, with gorgeous black levels.
Switching up genres, La La Land is a brilliant musical with vibrant colors that will pop on the best TVs, plus a catchy soundtrack that sounds excellent through a surround system. For another colorful, but action-packed movie, Ready Player One is another 4K disc that looks and sounds superb.
To see what 4K Blu-ray can do for classic movies, Double Indemnity is a prime example. With revitalized textures and strong contrast, this movie gets a new life on 4K.
These are just six discs from my growing collection that I recommend if you want to see what 4K can do. There are plenty of other choices out there, but hopefully this can get you started or fill some gaps in your collection!
Its first embodied-AI models are split into navigation (RobotNav), a video "world model" (RobotWorld), and manipulation (RobotManip)
The move comes after Nvidia recently unveiled and published its own Cosmos 3 offerings
As much of its AI competition continues to focus on LLMs and making them faster and more capable, Alibaba might be looking to lead on another frontier altogether, along with its LLM ambitions in tow: robots.
The company's Tongyi Lab has unveiled the Qwen Robot Suite, what it calls a family of models focused on "embodied AI," which centers on enabling machines to perceive space, reason, and act accordingly.
This comes at the heels of Nvidia's own Cosmos 3, a frontier model for physical AI, further bolstering CEO Jensen Huang's narrative that China's developer ecosystem remains relatively unaffected by chip restrictions, even as focus in the West continues to shift to power for many of the sprawling data centers being built in the US.
A competitor or a complement to Nvidia's playbook?
The Qwen-Robot Suite consists of three core models: Qwen-RobotManip, a generalizable vision-language-action model; Qwen-RobotNav, a scalable vision-language navigation model; and Qwen-RobotWorld, a video world model designed for embodied intelligence.
There is no denying, however, that robotics is being treated as perhaps the most crucial frontier for AI, even as LLMs continue to advance, with both Google and Nvidia among the companies pouring billions into research on their respective Gemini Robotics and open source Cosmos offerings.
Alibaba claims that the model, which leverages a more lightweight Qwen3.5-4B model rather than its Qwen 3.7 Max, which features over a trillion parameters, manages to top the RoboChallenge real-robot benchmark, scoring an impressive 59.83 and a 45% task success rate.
With other interested parties such as Tencent, Unitree, AgiBot, UBTech, Galbot, Spirit AI, and GigaAI, in addition to interest from EV firms including Xpeng and Xiaomi, all shaping the future of Chinese AI robotics, R&D in the industry is continuing at full swing, even as upcoming IPOs are expected to further propel the industry forward with easier access to capital.
The South China Morning Post, a wholly owned subsidiary of Alibaba, noted that "Alibaba’s entry comes as embodied intelligence is fast becoming the next frontier in global AI."
Nvidia's position on the matter is perhaps more nuanced with it attempting to behave as an 'enabler' versus a direct competitor as it pushes its open-source model to perhaps form the same building block that CUDA does for GPUs with Cosmos, GR00T, Isaac and similar offerings being the playbook this time around to ensure future robotics platforms are built, much like most AI tools, around Nvidia's hardware and software stack.
Alibaba's announcement might not be a sign of the Chinese giant out-engineering Nvidia, but in the backdrop of the Chinese government insisting informally at least, on a decoupling or at a minimum, no reliance on US-based hardware or software, it can be seen as an intent to build a similar ecosystem for Chinese robotics companies.
In the absence of Nvidia's presence in China, it might be hard to compare the two offerings, even as their scales differ considerably: Cosmos 3 is an open-world foundation model with multiple vendor-reported scores that do not cover RoboChallenge, whereas Alibaba's are self-reported from exactly one benchmark. Until both approaches can be compared directly, one can not assume superiority of one over the other.
What is, however, perhaps painfully obvious for Nvidia, and has been warned of time and again by its CEO, is that China, irked by US policies around AI, is no longer looking for chips, models, or even open source solutions to incorporate into its ecosystem, but wishes to build them from the ground up.
This could result in a lack of exposure to what was the second most lucrative market for the chip designer, a move that could cost it billions of dollars in revenue in the robotics segment alone, from what is still widely considered the "factory of the world" due to its huge manufacturing base.
Samsung has significant discounts across a wide range of its monitor line-up, and the range covers nearly every business use case, from a tidy single-screen desk setup to a full ultrawide command center.
For me, the Samsung ViewFInity S6 for $110 (was $180) at Amazon is the quintessential business monitor in the Prime Day sales right now. It's well-sized, feature-rich, and delivers everything I'd expect a screen for the office to offer.
But it's not the only display on sale right now, with price drops both at Amazon and direct from Samsung. I've rounded up my favorites below, from essential screens to immersive ultrawide options for creative professionals and dedicated multi-taskers.
A 24-inch QHD business monitor with USB-C 90W charging, a built-in LAN port, Daisy Chain DisplayPort, a KVM switch for two-computer control, and a tool-free ergonomic stand. TÜV-certified Eye Saver mode and 100Hz refresh rate. Purpose-built for the office.View Deal
A 27-inch QHD VA panel with 180Hz, 1ms response time, AMD FreeSync, HDR10, and — notably — a fully ergonomic stand with tilt, height, and pivot adjustment. Deep 3000:1 contrast ratio for clear, comfortable extended viewing. View Deal
A 32-inch 1000R curved VA display at QHD with 165Hz, 1ms response, AMD FreeSync, and a 2500:1 contrast ratio. The larger curved canvas is well-suited to three-window layouts and long analytical or writing sessions.View Deal
A 32-inch 4K smart monitor on a height-adjustable rolling stand with silent urethane wheels. Runs Samsung’s Tizen OS with Microsoft 365 and Knox Security built in. No PC required. Designed to move between rooms or meeting spaces with ease.View Deal
A 27-inch QD-OLED display at QHD with 240Hz, 0.03ms response, Pantone Validated 99% DCI-P3 color, Glare Free coating, OLED Safeguard burn-in protection, and a 3-year warranty. A serious display for color-accurate work.View Deal
A 49-inch QD-OLED superwide with 5120×1440 resolution, 240Hz, 0.03ms, 99% DCI-P3, 98% Adobe RGB, G-SYNC Compatible, and Samsung’s smart Tizen platform. Equivalent to two 27-inch QHD monitors in a single seamless panel.View Deal
Why I chose these Samsung monitor deals
Seven monitors at very different price points, but all of them earn their place on this list for a business audience in their own way. The ViewFinity S6 is the rare budget monitor built explicitly for professional use — the USB-C docking, LAN port, and KVM switch are features that usually cost significantly more. The Odyssey G5 G51F and G55C earn their spots by offering a proper ergonomic stand and strong VA contrast at prices that make them realistic for bulk office purchasing or replacing aging 1080p hardware without breaking the budget.
The MovingStyle M7 is the most niche pick, but it addresses a real gap: businesses that need a flexible, self-contained display that can move with them rather than staying fixed to a wall or desk. The built-in Microsoft 365 access and Knox Security make it genuinely useful in a conference or shared workspace context without any additional hardware.
The OLED G6 G61SH is here because QD-OLED panel quality at this price is still relatively new territory, and the Pantone Validated color accuracy and Glare Free coating address the two practical objections that have historically made OLED a harder sell for daytime office use. For designers, creatives, and anyone doing color-sensitive work, it’s a meaningful upgrade over any IPS panel at a comparable price point.
And the 49-inch OLED G9 is simply in a different productivity category entirely. The equivalent of two QHD monitors without a bezel between them — and at $854 with $745 off list price, it’s the most dramatic discount in this roundup. For the right role — financial analysis, development, video production, or creative direction — it’s a workspace upgrade that quickly justifies itself. Check out more options in our guide to the best business monitors.
We all know that kitchen appliances can cost a pretty penny, which is why using big deals events like Amazon Prime Day to save on spending can cause such frenzy among eager shoppers.
Whether you're looking for the best coffee makers, air fryers, or blenders, there's plenty to choose from, and I've hand-picked the best options to help you whittle down the pages upon pages of Amazon's discounted devices.
Here in the UK, in case you haven't noticed, we're in the throes of a massive heatwave, so some of the best deals I've seen are on devices that can help you make cooling treats like ice cream and iced coffee. I've actually already bought Breville's Iced Coffee Maker, which is over half price at £21.99 (was £46.99).
My trusty Ninja Creami is in absolute overdrive this week as I make gallons upon gallons of delicious, custom-recipe ice cream, and it's one of my top picks to help combat the UK's extreme weather warnings. Right now, it's on sale for £199 (was £249) at Amazon. It's not quite a record low for Ninja's once-viral sweet treat machine (that was £149), but I won't sniff at a £50 savings.
Amazon Prime Day coffee machine deals
At almost its lowest price ever, the popular Nespresso Vertuo Pop Coffee Pod Machine is a treat in this 48% off Prime day deal. In our review, we scored it a full five stars for its simple set-up and great results. This is one I've personally purchased family members and wholeheartedly recommend.
Record-low price: The fact that we awarded it 4.5 stars in our review for its ease of use, bevvy of customisable settings, and tasty results makes me think it could be the exact upgrade I need for my kitchen. While it's still a pricey machine, this record-low price makes it more palatable.
Record-low: This coffee maker has one of my favourite features: swappable hoppers so you can switch from full-caffeine to decaf beans in the afternoon and avoid ruining your night's sleep. I gave it a full five stars in my review, and it earned every one. This offer is different across all three colours (black, white, and grey) but in white, it's at a record-low.
Record-low price: The Vertuo Next scored four out of five stars in our review, with writer Sophie Bird calling it "the simplest coffee maker I've ever used". Here it comes bundled together with an Aeroccino milk frother, with a huge 60% price cut and a record-low price. In a recent hotel stay, I used this for my daily caffeine fix; it's fantastic.
Record-low: The De'Longhi Magnifica Evo Next does everything you could need from a coffee maker. It has a simple-to-use colour TFT display with a selection of buttons to help you choose your preferred beverage. There are 13 beverages to choose from, along with many intensity levels and temperature settings. It has a built-in grinder so you don’t have to do much while its automatic milk jug keeps your milk at an optimal temperature, so you’re all set. It’s easy to clean, too, with dishwasher-safe components.
Record low: The LatteGo series are superb compact espresso machines, and this model has received a huge price cut. Its milk frothing system is particularly good, producing creamy foam using plant or dairy milk, and not leaving you with any awkward tubes or pipes to clean. Delicious coffee without the hassle.
This is a truly brilliant coffee maker, with a full filter coffee system on the left, and a Nespresso machine on the right. Both parts work brilliantly, and it has everything you need for a morning jump-start. We awarded it a full five stars, and at this price it's even easier to recommend.
The Lattissima One is a premium Nespresso machine that we awarded four stars out of five thanks to its smart design that looks great and is easy to use, and its automatic milk frothing system that lets you make cappuccinos with a single tap.
One of the best small espresso machines we've tested here at TechRadar, the Dedica Style delivers consistent heat and pressure, and according to our reviewer, it's "perfect for smaller kitchens". An ideal option if you're looking for your first manual espresso machine. This deal applies to the black and stainless steel versions.
A £120 saving and almost the lowest-ever price for one of the best coffee machines does not come around very often at all. That's why we think you should consider it very carefully, especially if you were in the market for a coffee maker already. The Ninja Luxe Café is a professional-level coffee machine with a whopping 25 different grind settings and many smart features that make it a cut above the rest.
Very has knocked a generous £100 off this superb little espresso machine in the UK, bringing it down to a record-low price. It's fantastic value, and would be perfect for your kitchen counter, or as a gift.
This model doesn't have a touchscreen, but personally I don't think that's a bad thing; the physical controls are satisfying to use, and there are fewer fingerprints to worry about when I tried it for a few days staying at a friend's home. Its steam wand is manual rather than automatic, so you also get the tactile feeling of texturing milk yourself.
During testing, we appreciated its handy pressure gauge, which helps you see if your shot is being extracted correctly before you taste it, and its particularly good steam wand, which makes foaming milk a breeze. I didn't love its spring-loaded tamper, but that's hardly a dealbreaker, especially with 50% off.
Amazon has knocked over £200 off this Breville espresso machine, bringing it down to almost its lowest price ever. It's a semi-automatic machine, meaning it handles the grinding and dosing for you, but lets you have fun with the rest of the barista experience (pulling the shot, frothing milk, and having a crack at latte art if you fancy).
This Breville espresso machine has an extraction timer, which lets you see if your shot is likely to be under-extracted, over-extracted, or just right before you taste it. It's a great feature you'll find on premium coffee makers, and surprisingly rare in this price bracket. At almost a record-low price, it's a steal.
For the price of four Starbucks iced lattes, you can have cool caffeination at home in less than four minutes. It's not something we've personally tested, but with 2000+ customer reviews on Amazon and a 4.3-star rating, it seems a pretty popular gadget. At almost its lowest-ever price (£17.97 in 2024), this is a steal; I'll report back once I've tried it later this week.View Deal
Save an extra 40% with code: ELEC40 This has an initial discount bringing it from £95 to £69, then you can apply a 40% code at the checkout to unlock the bigger discount. It's a slick, narrow pod coffee machine that's great for smaller kitchens.
Record-low price: If you're looking for a high-capacity air fryer, then the Ninja Foodi FlexDrawer, now at over £80 off, is a must-have. This is its record-low cost, so you can bag its 10.4L capacity, which is enough to fit a 2kg chicken or 1.5kg of fries in each zone for under £200. I used this as my main air fryer for a few months, and it's tremendous for feeding large households.
The Ninja Double Stack is one of our top-rated air fryers thanks to its innovative design that lets you prepare a full meal without taking up your whole kitchen worktop, and the XL version gives you even more space to cook. It's my model of choice, and holds pride of place in my kitchen. In its black / copper colorway, it's almost at a record-low price at Amazon.
Record-low price: It likes to yo-yo in price, but this is the first time we've seen this model drop below £100 since Black Friday last year. For a dual basket model and 13 different cooking methods, how can you go wrong?
Cooking for a family, but don't want to spend a fortune? You'll be hard-pressed to find a 10L air fryer cheaper than this — especially one that performs this well. When we tested it, we loved its synced cooking feature, which lets you finish cooking two different foods at once, and the wealth of recipes available in its connected mobile app.
Our reviewer praised this Ninja air fryer's ability to deliver crisp, evenly browned food every time, and mentioned that it's particularly easy to clean, and I concur based on my few weeks with the model. A great choice if you're cooking for a family (particularly at this price)!
The Satisfry earned a place in our roundup of the best air fryers thanks to its fantastically consistent cooking (our oven chips never looked so good) and wallet-friendly price tag. It's now even more affordable with this almost (just £1 shy) record-breaking deal at Amazon, and even easier to recommend.
Record-low price: If the Ninja dual basket air fryers are out of your budget range, Amazon is knocking off £80 Cuisinart's own dual basket air fryer this Prime Day. It uses Air Advantage tech to ensure it produces crispy yet tender results across its two 5.2L baskets, with plenty of space to feed the family.
Record-low price: Particularly well-suited for those with limited space, the Ninja Crispi offers air frying and roasting functionality, as well as a keep-warm feature and recrisping. It comes with two removable glass containers and lids, so it’s great for meal prep. The larger one is 3.8L in size, providing enough space to feed up to six people while also allowing for the simultaneous cooking of a whole 1.2kg chicken and vegetables; I tried it when my colleague bought it to the office (yes, that's a thing in this line of work), and it's pretty impressive. This is a record-low price on the Stone Gold colorway.
An air fryer for under £60 from a reputable brand? Yes! This is a fantastic deal if you're looking for a real bargain, and it doesn't skimp on features. There's only a single drawer, but it has a viewing window so you don't need to open it to check your chips, 13 cooking modes, and dishwasher-safe components. A Prime Day steal.
We're a big fan of Philips kitchen appliances (the coffee makers are amazing), and this dual-basket air fryer is no exception. Rather than two equal-sized drawers, it has a large one for your main dish and a small one for a side — plus optional steam to keep meat and fish tender.
The stylish Cosori Air Fryer Pro is already an affordable model, but with this deal, it's an even more attractive option. While testing this gadget out for our Cosori Air Fryer Pro review, we found it was able to cook fries and chicken wings to perfection — however it did require some experimentation, and it didn't handle frozen food so well. Still, for under £60, it's a worthwhile investment.
If you want to go all the way with a convenient knife block with a built-in sharpener, then this is a great price for a premium set from Ninja. You'll never suffer from dull knives again with this extremely handy kitchen gadget, with its six-piece set of stainless steel knives and included paring scissors. A good friend of mine absolutely raves about this knife block, but I'm more of a Japanese knife kinda gal.
The Ninja Blast Portable Blender is a powerful all-in-one portable blender — and it's now down to a great low price for Prime Day. It has a 530ml container with a leakproof lid and sip spout, while the carry handle means you can take it with you to the gym or on your walks. It’s capable of blending ice and frozen fruit, as well as any liquids and powders, while one charge gives you up to two hours of battery life. I scored this four stars in my review.
I'm a little tempted by this over £20 price reduction on this well-scoring blender, but having bought the highly performant 900-series for a family member last year, I'm holding out hope for a discount on the more powerful model. While it can't chop ice, it creates velvety smoothies out of fresh and frozen fruits hassle-free. On top of this, the build quality and performance impressed us, and the fact that it's even cheaper than it was on Black Friday makes this an even sweeter deal. View Deal
This is one of the first deals we've seen for the new Ninja BlendBoss, so a £35 price cut is a pretty solid start. I've been watching this one after my colleague Matt Bolton raved about it, and seeing as we scored this small but mighty blender 4.5 stars in our review, praising its convenient integrated 26-ounce travel tumbler and powerful blades, making it perfect for a quick cool smoothie ahead of a busy day in the heat. View Deal
Amazon Prime Day ice cream maker deals
Back at its lowest-ever price at Amazon, the Cuisinart Frost Fusion is a solid competitor to Ninja's various ice cream makers, offering fast frozen drinks and soft-serve ice cream with 6 modes and a slim profile to keep your kitchen counters clear. With £100 off, it's a steal for Prime Day.View Deal
Ninja's Creami ice cream maker is a household favorite, having pretty much revolutionised the scene when it hit the market a few years ago. I've made good use of it this week during the heatwave, but it's worth noting this isn't the best price we've seen. Still, it's a sizeable £50 saving nonetheless. View Deal
In June, the Creami Scoop and Swirl dropped to its lowest-ever price of £265 at Amazon, so this £80-off deal is a pretty close call for the best deal we've seen on one of our top summer picks. We scored it 4 stars in our review, praising its delicious results, ease of use, and 13 different settings. If I didn't already have the Creami, I might be tempted to grab one myself, having tried the delicious soft-serve results at a trade show last year.View Deal
Amazon Prime Day beverage maker deals
At less than £100, Sodastream's latest streamlined beverage carbonation station is a great way to keep things cool during the impending heatwave if, like me, you get bored with water easily. I tried my first Sodastream a few months ago, and after years of side-eyeing the appliance, I must admit, I see the use when it comes to making controlled-sugar drinks at home. It's the first time we've seen an Amazon deal on this particular model, so a £60 discount is nothing to sniff at. View Deal
This weather makes an ice-cold drink extremely appealing right now, and the unique Ninja Slushi just fell back to its Black Friday price at Amazon. This kitchen appliance makes all sorts of chilled and frozen drinks, including juices, cocktails, milkshakes, and more. We loved it in our Ninja Slushi review, praising its ability to make quick and delicious drinks easily in a fun and entertaining package. Again, I've tried the results of this one at a trade show and probably would have attempted grand theft Slushi were it not for my limited luggage space.View Deal
I love cameras and Lego, so imagine by delight when I received the shiny new Lego Creator 3-in-1 Retro Camera for Christmas in 2023. The charming set, which features an SLR camera with moving parts and a film door, has lived on my desk at home ever since I completed the build on a wet winter day shortly after.
If you know someone with a soft spot cameras and Lego too (looking at you), I can heartily recommend the set, which has fallen in price to $15.99 at Amazon (was $19.99). Being part of the Creator 3 in 1 series, there are three builds to choose from; an SLR film camera, camcorder or TV set.
Honestly, the SLR build was already plenty enough for me without the other two options. There are neat touches including a film crank, a viewfinder to peek through, and a film door that opens and closes, plus film rolls that you can slot inside the camera.
I'm sure the Polaroid SX70-themed set would put just as big a smile on my face as the real thing did, as they are so thoughtfully created sets now available for much less than the full price — and you can grab the best prices today through the links below.
Not in the US? I've included links to the best deals in your region, further below. Happy building!
Today's best camera-themed Lego set deals
As part of the 3-in-1 Lego series, there are three different possible builds in this retro camera set; SLR, camcorder and TV, all for just $15.99. View Deal
I actually own an original Polaroix SX70 instant camera, which dates back to the 1970s, so when I saw the SX70-themed Lego set it immediately made its way to my wishlist. Now with 18% off, I'm seriously tempted.View Deal
Did you know that you can stream World Cup 2026 matches in 4K on BBC iPlayer? Well, you can — it's just not entirely obvious as to which devices actually support the feature. What is certain is that not all of them do — and your TV may not be among them.
While it would be useful to have a list of which of the best TVs and other devices support 4K for the World Cup, there isn't one. Instead, BBC says the easiest way to check if your device supports 4K content on iPlayer is to go to BBC iPlayer app itself and stream some 4K content, then look for the 'UHD' logo. If it appears, then your device supports it: hooray! If not, then unfortunately you won't be able to watch the World Cup in 4K on your current device.
If you want a list of 4K shows on BBC iPlayer to check, there's one here, but some quick names are Blue Planet II, SAS Rogue Heroes and Doctor Who (the latest series). If the UHD logo doesn't appear in the listing for one of the shows, then your device doesn't support it.
Thankfully, there are two devices that do support 4K streaming on BBC iPlayer: the Roku Streaming Stick 4K and the PS5. The Roku is a cheap upgrade to your TV that will allow 4K streaming on iPlayer and while the PS5 is pricier, it's a multimedia system that can obviously play games and 4K Blu-rays, as well as supporting most of the best streaming services.
And just in time for Amazon Prime Day, there are deals available for both devices.
Today's best Roku Streaming Stick 4K deal
The Roku Streaming Stick 4K supports 4K resolution and Dolby Vision HDR, and supports major streaming apps such as Netflix, Disney Plus and Prime Video, as well as major UK apps such as BBC iPlayer. This deal knocks the £10 off, taking it down to £39.99. I've noticed it for cheaper at Amazon, but these listings seem to be from third party sellers I would avoid. View Deal
Today's best PS5 deals
The cheapest way to pick up a brand new PS5 right now is the PS5 Slim Digital Edition at Joybuy for £419. Obviously this version doesn't come with a disc drive, so you'll need to buy the optional one for £69.99, or download your games digitally. View Deal
The premium PS5 Pro is best acquired at EE right now in the UK, with the retailer knocking 45 pounds off the console's list price. We predict the PS5 Pro could be the definitive way to play GTA 6, given Rockstar's close relationship with Sony, so this is our top pick for the console to play the game on. View Deal
I've been a hardcore headphones user for almost four years (thank you, Sony), but when I picked up the Cambridge Audio Melomania A100s a few months back, they restored my faith in earbuds.
Since introducing one of the best earbuds back into my life, I've been using them alongside my headphones interchangeably — headphones are better for certain things, and vice versa — but the performance exceeds the low price, and Amazon Prime Day just made them cheaper.
For a pair of earbuds with surprising noise cancelling and a lengthy battery life, sub-£80 is quite a bargain. According to Amazon's listing, this is the lowest price for the Melomania earbuds in the last 30 days, and though the pricing history isn't available right now, it leads me to believe that this is as good as it's going to get this Prime Day. View Deal
I stopped using earbuds years ago after going through a number of models and being let down each time. From there, I swore that earbuds would never give me what I needed quite like headphones do.
However, since I started using the Cambridge Audio Melomania A100s, all the things I enjoyed about earbuds suddenly came flooding back to me.
For starters, they're just far easier to carry around with you, and though over-ear headphones win in the comfort department, the convenience aspect wins by a landslide. However, that's not to say the Melomania A100s aren't comfortable. If anything, they fit quite pleasantly and come with different-sized sponges for you to swap out.
On the audio side of things, the Melomania A100s' noise cancelling is quite impressive for in-ear buds — I find they block out sounds just as well as headphones. That said, switching between noise-cancelling, normal, and transparency settings is very simple. All it takes is a small tap on the left earbud.
Because of their price, you're not going to get all the health tracking bells and whistles as you do with the AirPods Pro 3, but for earbuds that are centred on dynamic and well-defined audio offerings, these earbuds are really all you need.
Disney Store is beta testing a new AI Personal Shopping Assistant
The conversational tool can recommend products, gifts, and other items
I tried it early, and it's very knowledgeable about Disney's universes
If you've used the Disney Store app recently, you'll know it’s been getting a steady stream of updates over the past few months — from push notifications for limited-edition drops to a faster, easier-to-navigate interface.
Now Disney Store is taking another step forward with a feature designed to make finding the right product feel a little more intuitive — and we have an exclusive first look. It’s dubbed the Disney Store AI Personal Shopping Assistant, and it’s a conversational AI shopping tool built directly into the app. It lets users describe what they’re looking for in natural language rather than relying on traditional keyword search, though the standard search experience will remain in the app.
The shopping assistant is currently live as a beta test for a select portion of signed-in users on the Disney Store iOS app in the United States. Disney says it will continue to learn from usage and refine the experience over time, with expansion to Android, DisneyStore.com, and international markets planned for a later date.
(Image credit: Future/Jacob Krol)
To see how well it works, I first asked it for gift ideas for a niece who loves Jessie from Toy Story, along with some fun toys to go alongside a classic doll. After a short pause, it returned a curated set of suggestions tailored to that character, each with brief explanations for why they fit the prompt. Instead of standard search results, it felt more like a tailored recommendation flow.
On the surface, the assistant doesn't feel like a separate feature bolted onto the app. Instead, it's built directly into the existing search experience. A new magnifying glass icon with a subtle sparkle now sits in the top-left corner of the home screen, taking you into search, where Disney prompts users with "Need ideas? Ask our AI Personal Shopping Assistant."
Once inside, it shifts into a conversational interface. In my testing, it opened with: "Hello Jacob, how can I help?" followed by a handful of suggested prompts to get started. From there, it behaves more like a shopping assistant than a traditional search bar, designed to understand natural language requests — whether you're looking for gifts, planning outfits for a Disney Parks visit, or tracking down merchandise tied to specific characters or franchises.
(Image credit: Disney)
In practice, it feels responsive and surprisingly aware of Disney's wider universe — not just flagship characters like Mickey Mouse or Stitch, but also more obscure references, newer additions to the catalog, and park-related and age-appropriate suggestions.
"Our focus is always on enhancing the guest journey and meeting our fans where they are," said Patrick Sager, VP Disney Stores. "By introducing an AI-powered shopping assistant to the Disney Store app, we're blending storytelling with technology, delivering smarter recommendations, seamless discovery, and a more connected experience, making it easier than ever for guests to find the perfect product."
Items can be expanded for more detail or added directly to a shopping bag, reducing friction between browsing and purchase. The assistant also encourages exploration through follow-up prompts. After an initial query, it suggests refinements like "show Jessie dolls" or "show more plush toys," helping users narrow results without starting over. Of course, you can also type a follow-up or take it in an entirely new direction.
Disney says the assistant was developed in-house and built within its own ecosystem of characters, stories, and products. No guest data was used during development, and that remains the case going forward.
Beyond the conversational layer, Disney has also built in standard usability features: thumbs up/down ratings — which will likely be used to refine the experience over time — the ability to clear the chat at any time, and a light and dark mode toggle.
The Disney Store AI Personal Shopping Assistant feels like an early pilot feature in Disney’s broader push into AI-powered experiences — one that follows recently announced AI enhancements within the My Disney Experience app at Walt Disney World, as well as Disney’s departure from its deal with OpenAI.
While those efforts focus on planning and in-park experiences, the Disney Store implementation brings the same idea into retail. The common thread is that Disney appears to be exploring how AI can support different parts of its ecosystem, using conversational tools to surface products while still keeping everything anchored in the characters and worlds that define the brand.
At this stage, it still feels experimental in places rather than fully defined, but it’s clear Disney has put thought into how it integrates into the existing shopping experience rather than simply layering on a generic AI chatbot. I’m very curious to see how it evolves as new characters or franchises are introduced, as we see new product launches, and as we get closer to the holiday season. Who knows, maybe Disney will add a deal alert or restock functionality.
If you give it a go, let me know what you think of the experience in the comments below.
It's the 35th anniversary of the Sonic the Hedgehog franchise this year, with the blue blur having launched all the way back in 1991.
It's fair to say that the series has had its ups and downs, but it's definitely in a strong spot at the moment. Recent releases like Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds and Sonic x Shadow Generations have been absolutely excellent, and the last few years saw the launch of an official Lego line based on the franchise.
Whether you're a long-time Sonic fan or more of a newcomer, there are loads to dive into, and I've spent some of my time today rounding up the best Sonic games and Lego sets out there right now. Many of them are even discounted as part of the ongoing Amazon Prime Day sales.
In 2026 it can feel a little like VR’s moment has passed.
Meta’s layoffs to kick off the year felt like a major downer for the industry at large — especially as it has been the champion of this space for years now — and it certainly seems that smart glasses like the Meta Ray-Bans but also Snap Specs, Android XR glasses, and more that have debuted this year are stealing the XR spotlight.
But VR is far from dead. Sure it might not be seeing the growth it once saw but sa a gaming and entertainment machine that tech is only getting better each day.
Plus with some Meta Quest 3S deals at Amazon Prime Day you can save big on the best affordable VR hardware out there.
The Meta Quest 3S is an incredible, cheap VR headset, but let's just ignore the fact that this deal just undoes the recent price hikes caused by the RAM crisis.View Deal
If you want a VR headset and are on a budget you can't do better than the Meta Quest 3S. Is this Prime Day deal really a deal? Not really, but that doesn't stop the headset being incredible value for money.View Deal
This headset is technically as capable as a Meta Quest 3, meaning the 3S can handle whatever software the Quest ecosystem might want to throw at it — and that’s a broad list.
There’s plenty of VR games to jump into including Marvel’s Deadpool, Batman:Arkham Shadow, Walkabout Minigolf, and Beat Saber to name just a few. Plus there are fitness apps — which when combined with a silicone facial interface turn your headset into an actually enjoyable home gym — and a growing collection of streaming services which turn your headset into a private home theatre, you can even kick back in bed and enjoy watching the screen as if it were affixed to your ceiling.
With game console price hikes making gaming pricier than ever, it’s worth noting your headset can double as an Xbox too — again complete with a giant display. You’ll just need a Game Pass subscription and Xbox controller.
In the US a bonus Quest deal will get you a free month of Xbox Game Pass, while the UK version nets you 20%-off code for an Xbox controller and one month of Game Pass Ultimate after the purchase of a 3S headset.
Price up, prices down
(Image credit: Meta)
The slight elephant in the room we should address with these Prime Day ‘deals’ is they unfortunately aren’t really deals in the truest sense.
Thanks to the RAM crisis the Meta Quest 3 series headsets saw a price hike. The 128GB model Meta Quest 3S went up to $349.99 / £319.99 / AU$569, while the price of the 256GB edition rose to $449.99 / £409.99 / AU$729. The 512GB Meta Quest 3now sets you back $599.99 / £549.99 / AU$969.
These Prime Day deals generally just revert the headset to its pre-hike price. You’ll see a roughly $53 saving, but in actuality it’s closer to $3.
That said, as some pointed out even after the hike, the Quest 3S represents incredible value for money. So sure this discount isn’t as great as it was a year ago before the base cost rose, but the Quest 3S at its original asking price is one of the best deals in tech, so definitely consider grabbing one while the discount is around.
With the RAM crisis and shipping troubles looking set to persist I wouldn’t be surprised if prices rise further, and Black Friday deals might struggle to match even those we have today. Not just for the Meta Quest 3S, but any gadget.
TrophyLab gives verified allies direct access to captured Russian military intelligence
Foreign engineers can now physically disassemble real Russian weapons and missiles
The platform covers armoured vehicles, UAVs, missiles, and electronic warfare systems
Ukraine's Ministry of Defence has launched TrophyLab, a platform giving foreign governments, research institutions, and defence companies direct access to technical intelligence gathered from captured Russian military equipment.
The platform includes technical documentation, research results, blueprints, and analytical findings covering armoured vehicles, missiles, aircraft, UAVs, electronic warfare assets, and cruise missiles.
In a move that breaks sharply from standard military practice, Ukraine is also offering to ship physical hardware samples to allied partners for hands-on examination.
What TrophyLab actually offers and who can access it
Since the beginning of the war, Ukrainian military researchers and scientific institutions have been systematically studying every piece of captured enemy equipment.
That work has produced detailed knowledge of how Russian weapons function, where their weaknesses lie, and what countermeasures can be developed most efficiently against them.
TrophyLab now makes that accumulated intelligence available to Ukrainian defence manufacturers, military units, scientific institutions, and international partners actively supporting Ukraine's war effort.
Its catalogues include armoured vehicles, missiles, aircraft, UAVs, electronic warfare systems, unmanned ground vehicles, and cruise missiles across multiple operational categories, exceeding typical databases.
Access to physical samples goes considerably further than document sharing alone, as the platform supports multiple examination formats, ranging from non-destructive analysis through to complete disassembly and destruction of captured equipment.
That level of access allows foreign engineers to test their own countermeasure solutions directly against real Russian hardware, potentially cutting the development cycle for defensive technologies.
The strategic logic behind making Russian secrets public
Governments typically guard captured enemy technology closely for their own strategic advantage, which makes Ukraine's decision to share it openly with allies a genuinely unusual step in modern warfare.
The decision to open this intelligence reflects a deliberate calculation about how to maximize the collective defensive capability of Ukraine's partners against a common adversary.
Every Russian weapon deployed against Ukraine now becomes a potential source of publicly available technical knowledge for the broader defence community of democratic nations.
Ukraine's framing of the initiative is explicit on this point, describing the knowledge as something that "should work for those who create defence" rather than remaining locked away from allied researchers.
The platform is available to verified users only, suggesting some access controls remain in place despite the broadly open-access philosophy behind the project.
Whether TrophyLab accelerates the development of effective countermeasures at meaningful scale will depend on how actively allied governments and defence contractors engage with the available material.
The more extensively Russia deploys its weapons arsenal against Ukraine, the larger and more detailed that shared intelligence base becomes.
This may bring a new dimension to the deployment of Russian technology, since any captured equipment could now instantly become public knowledge through TrophyLab.
Workday's AI screening software under fire for discriminatory biases
Hirers usually bear the responsibility, but human-replacing software could be responsible
The case must also consider AI much more broadly, including historical biases and shifting responsibilities
During a June 2026 hearing, Judge Rita Lin implied she might be likely to reject Workday's latest attempt to dismiss claims brought under California law relating to a 2023 discrimination case.
Three years ago, Derek Mobley accused the company of rejecting him from more than 100 jobs after applying through he company's recruitment systems on the basis that he is black, over 40 years old and has anxiety and depression.
But rather than suing the individual employers, Mobley is pursuing action against Workday itself, arguing its AI-powered hiring software is responsible for discriminatory action.
Workday is on track to face legal action over AI-powered hiring software
Workday has argued that California employment discrimination laws should not apply when applicants live – or jobs are located – outside of California.
Reuters notes that more than four in five US employers and nearly all Fortune 500 companies now use AI-powered hiring or applicant-screening tools, and the ongoing case marks an important potential shift in its regulation.
Previously, employers have been liable for discriminatory hiring, but the lawsuit is now exploring whether software developers and AI vendors should bear some responsibility.
In an earlier 2024 hearing, the judge questioned whether Workday may also qualify as an employer because it performs screening tasks that would usually be carried out by human workers in HR teams.
While this specific case relates to Workday, the court must also explore how training data can affect biases and who bears responsibility for the outcome – the results could have a much bigger impact than just a fine for Workday.
"Our technology looks only at job qualifications, not protected traits like race, age, or disability," the company added in a statement.
Back in 2025, we reviewed the 65-inch model, the 65S90F, and said, "The Samsung 65S90F delivers much of the performance of Samsung’s flagship OLED TV for far less money, making it a true 2025 TV hero."
The combination of excellent picture quality and strong connectivity chops would appear to make it a perfect fit for its newest app: Instagram for TV.
The app, by the way, looks almost exactly like your standard Instagram interface on the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra (or your iPhone), but Instagram is testing something new that might do a better job of showing off the OLED's excellent, rich contrast, pure RGB colors, and strong viewing angles (a feature of most OLEDs): horizontal video.
So for those who find themselves viewing more and more landscape video on the mobile app, they will soon enjoy similar full-screen social video courtesy of Instagram on their Samsung TVs (provided it's a new enough model).
Samsung's S90F OLED TV earned five stars in our review, and, though smaller, the 48S90F shares all the same excellent features. Now Amazon has it at a huge $600 discount. The S90F OLED TV delivers an outstanding picture, thanks to quantum dot OLED technology and Samsung's NQ4 AI Gen3 processor. You're also getting extensive gaming features and Samsung's impressive Tizen operating system.
Granted, social video via Instagram is probably not reason enough to pick up this Samsung set, but the specs, including a powerful NQ4 AI Gen3 processor, Dolby Atmos, fit-anywhere 48-inch screen size, and the current sub-$800 price, probably are.
Amid all the 10%-to-20% discounts, this is the kind of Prime Day deal we dream of. 43% is hovering in the half-off range, and for a near-top-of-the-line set, that's something to celebrate. Perhaps you'll do it with an Instagram post that you share with friends and watch on your new Samsung S90F. It's a full-circle Prime Day moment.
Here in the UK, it's been absolutely sweltering for the past couple of days. It's even got to the point where schools and other institutions are shutting down, with red weather warnings popping up around the country. I have to say, even working from home in this heat can be quite the challenge — but there's something you can do to make your life a lot easier: snap up a shiny new misting fan.
That's right, I recently got my hands on the Dreo Smart Misting Fan 516S, and it's been an absolute lifesaver. This affordable device has kept me cool, even at the hottest times of day. It's mess-free, has a number of different speed settings, can oscillate, and there's even a turbo mode if you need to get a real blast of cold.
I'll include more details about the fan below, as well as a few alternatives to keep you nice and cool, whether you're in the UK or beyond.
Dreo Smart Misting Fan 516S — US best price
Over in the US, you can grab the Dreo Smart Misting Fan 516S for less than $100, which is a great price considering its talents. It's a desktop fan with mess-free misting, various control modes, 12 speed settings, and Turbo cooling tech that's sure to keep you chilled on the hottest of days.View Deal
Dreo Smart Misting Fan 516S — UK best price
The Dreo Smart Misting Fan 516S is a great desktop fan that will keep you nice and chilled in the sizzling summer sun. It has 12 speed modes, Turbo cooling tech, mess-free misting, and can oscillate to catch every angle. At less than £100, it's well worth the investment.View Deal
In my recently published Dreo Smart Misting Fan 516S review, I raved about the model's excellent misting effect, which never creates excess water build-up, as well as its wide variety of control options — including app and voice assistant compatibility — and its generally quiet performance in use.
Does it have massive coverage or the most striking airflow you'll experience? No — it's a desktop fan first and foremost. But given its relatively compact size, it performs very well indeed, and its generous 1.3L water tank means you won't have to refill it too often. As a result, it gets my full recommendation.
Still, a lot of misting fans are selling out pretty quickly in the UK, and more generally, you may fancy checking out a few other options. As a result, I've found a few alternatives that you can check out. Just scroll down to see a few more options for fending off excessive heat this summer.
More fans to check out — US
The Shark 3-in-1 ChillPill received a fantastic 4.5 stars in our recent review. It's a great performing fan with effective misting, and it's an excellent alternative to the Dreo if you've got a little more wiggle-room in your budget.View Deal
If you really want to take things up a notch then I've got yet another Shark fan that could be ideal for you: the FlexBreeze Pro Mist. This one's fantastic for indoor or outdoor use, and has a 24 hour battery life too, although it can be plugged in and used if you run dry. View Deal
More fans to check out — UK
Shark's 3-in-1 ChillPill earned a solid score of 4.5 stars in our recent review. Now, only one colourway is on sale right now, and they did inflate the list price to make it look like a big deal, but the actual offer of £10 off on a brand-new product that mists, cools, and fans is still pretty neat.View Deal
The Pro Mist is the most hardcore option in the FlexBreeze lineup, because it comes with the mister attachment and an integrated water tank included. That means it's all set up to envelop you in a cooling cloud whenever and wherever you want.View Deal
I've spent most of my life drifting from one fleeting entanglement to another, never really taking the risk to actually invest in something significant. But then, four months ago, I finally made a real commitment: my life changed for the better and I haven't looked back since. That's right, I finally bought myself a premium gaming controller. And, this Prime Day, I think should take the leap too.
But there are lots of great PC and Xbox controllers out there, so how do you know when you've found the one? Trust me: when you know, you know. And for me, that controller is the Asus ROG Raikiri II.
If you want a super low-latency, wireless controller for PC or Xbox, the Asus ROG Raikiri II is an excellent choice, thanks to its great feature-set and impressive build. And while it usually has a unflinchingly high price tag, you're currently in luck, as right now you can pick up the ROG Raikiri II at Amazon for $189.99 (was $143.99). In my book, that turns it from a strong candidate to an absolute must-have.
There are so many reasons I'm impressed with the Asus ROG Raikiri II. Wonderfully clicky face buttons. Dual-mode, TMR triggers and TMR thumbsticks. Impressively low latency. And I'm even more impressed now it's a huge $46 off.
I've not exactly tried to hide my love for this controller, as you can see from my Asus ROG Raikiri II review. I gave it a glowing 4.5 stars, thanks to its compelling features.
Those dual-mode triggers mean you can easily set it to a shallow tap for clicking heads in shooters or set them to their full range for granular control over your accelerator for driving games.
The thumbsticks also feel wonderfully precise, making it easy to sneak past fascists on Indiana Jones and The Great Circle. Also, its 2.4GHz wireless connectivity offers super low-latency of just 2.3ms, making it always feel really responsive.
And when it comes to design, it's no less impressive. It feels solidly built in your hand and comes with its own charging dock and replacement thumbsticks. Meanwhile, its customizable RGB lightning adds just enough flair without it feel overdone or garish. Finally, ROG's Gear Link software allows to set response curves for its sticks and triggers and changes its lighting patterns. Not bad for less that $150 / £200.
Want to peruse some other controllers before making your decision? Then check out our guide to the best PC controllers. Alternatively, keep an eye on our Amazon Prime Day live blog for all the latest deals as we unearth them.
Xsolis confirmed a phishing‑enabled breach on Jan 22, 2026, exposing data of 1.39M individuals
Stolen info includes names, addresses, DOBs, SSNs, health insurance, and medical treatment details; no ransom demands or dark web leaks yet
Customers offered free credit monitoring and identity theft protection, with warnings to watch for phishing and fraud attempts
Healthcare technology company Xsolis disclosed a cyberattack in which it lost sensitive data on almost 1.4 million customers.
Xsolis is a company that uses AI to help healthcare organizations make faster and more consistent decisions about patient care and utilization management. Earlier this week, it published a data breach notification on its website, saying that it spotted the intrusion on January 22, 2026.
Apparently, after a successful phishing attack on one of its employees two days earlier, the attackers were able to access a “limited portion” of the Xsolis environment, from which they were able to exfiltrate people’s names, addresses, dates of birth, health insurance information, Social Security numbers, and medical treatment information.
Almost 1.4 million victims
This level of information is more than enough information to target these individuals with phishing or even steal their identity for more disruptive attacks elsewhere.
In a filing with the US Department of Health and Human Services, Xsolis confirmed that 1,396,519 individuals were affected by this breach.
“We have taken steps to address the incident and are committed to protecting the information entrusted to us,” Xsolis said in the announcement. “Upon learning of this incident, we immediately began an investigation and reported the incident to law enforcement. We also implemented additional safeguards to further enhance the security of information in our possession and to help prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future.”
So far, there is no evidence of the data being used in follow-up attacks, or being offered on the dark web. No threat actors have yet claimed responsibility for the attack, and no one has yet demanded ransom in exchange for the files.
Xsolis told its customers to be wary of incoming messages, especially those pretending to be from the company, or using it in any other context. Customers are also offered free credit monitoring and identity theft protection services, as well as fraud alerts and credit freezes.
They say you need to own at least 1,000 to constitute a home library, and while I love a compelling novel as much as the next bookworm, finding the space is tricky — but that's why we have the Amazon Kindle, a budget-friendly e-reader that just got even cheaper this Amazon Prime Day.
I've always enjoyed physical books, simply because nothing quite beats the feeling of achievement you feel at the close of the final page. I have a summer getaway coming up, and reading by the poolside or at the beach is one of the best forms of relaxation.
Prime Day discounts on the 2024 Kindle don't come as generous as they do during Black Friday, but you won't come across a better deal at any other time of year. For Amazon's most recent standard version Kindle, $85 isn't the worst price for an e-reader that covers the basics, but it has been cheaper in the past. View Deal
Likewise with Amazon UK, the 2024 Kindle generally gets a better deal at Black Friday, but Prime Day is a very close second. Given it's £55 cheaper than the Paperwhite, this is clearly a better pick for the infrequent reader who's after a more budget-friendly option.View Deal
Amazon has some of the best e-readers out there, and they range from basic models to more advanced ones like the Kindle Scribe which are designed for note-taking and productivity. But they're often very pricey, even after a Prime Day discount is applied.
The 2024 Kindle is our best budget e-reader even when it's not Prime Day, and it's an ideal model if you're only after reading tools and not the bells and whistles of its Scribe sibling. This model is also not a bulky device that's going to take up loads of room when on the move (it has an easy-to-read 6-inch screen).
Additionally, many previous-generation Kindle owners may not be too thrilled with Amazon's recent decisions to axe support for older devices, even though you're still using them despite their declining functionality. If an upgrade is what you're looking for, we believe the performance alone will be worth your while.
It's big game time at the 2026 FIFA World Cup as England take on Ghana on a night which could see the Three Lions seal qualification to the knockouts – and just because you're a UK expat it doesn't mean that you can't still enjoy watching Thomas Tuchel's men for free on BBC iPlayer just like you would back in Blighty.
So long as you're a license fee payer, you've every right to enjoy the Beeb's British commentary and support from your sunny spot in Dubai, Saudi, Singapore or wherever else you may be.
Just use a VPN, choose a UK server to connect to in the app, and then head to iPlayer and get streaming straight away, just like everyone else back in England.
If you don't have a VPN, then we recommend NordVPN. We've rated it as the best VPN for streaming as well as the best VPN overall for more than two years now. Sign-up, install it on your laptop and away you go.
NordVPN: Stream England vs Ghana and everything on iPlayer NordVPN is the best streaming VPN available. Use it to set your computer to appear to be in a United Kingdom location and then watch anything you like on BBC iPlayer as usual, including England vs Ghana. NordVPN costs $3.49 per month and comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee, just in case you don't get along with it. Try the NordVPN Plus plan if you want to add scam protection too.View Deal
NordVPN comes with 24/7 live chat support just in case you have any difficulties getting connected. It also offers a tonne of scam protection features too if that's of interest to you beyond streaming.
VPNs are completely legal to use in all but the most draconian of countries. They're excellent for streaming your regular shows wherever your travel and providing privacy and protection from prying eyes for all of your online activities.
If you want to keep up with the World Cup wherever you go, or get hold of a secure streaming connection, then you have a few options.
The standard method is to use a VPN on a laptop or mobile device, and then use a HDMI cable to connect the device to your TV and display the image, effectively turning the TV into a monitor.
You could also try wireless casting via AirPlay, Chromecast, or Windows’ Miracast, but the experience is rarely as straightforward as your TV maker or the casting technology pretends it is. It all takes precious fiddling around time and that's time that your World Cup watch party guests will not be willing to wait.
Instead, turn to your hardware and try out your VPN provider's native TV apps or its apps for media streamers like Fire Sticks or Apple TV boxes. For most of these devices, it's incredibly simple to get going. Go to their app stores, find your VPN provider and install.
Then, just set your server location to the UK or Australia or wherever else you need to tune in, as usual, and then head to your regular streaming app – whether that's BBC iPlayer, ITVX, SBS or wherever else you find your free World Cup live streams.
And, if you don't already have a World Cup VPN, then you might want to try Norton VPN at the moment. It's a great streaming VPN and the only one to offer a 60-day money-back guarantee. That's more than enough to iron out any teething issues and will also see you through to the end of the World Cup itself.
Watch free World Cup streams without limits using Norton VPN and its apps for Fire Stick, Apple TV and smart TVs. It delivers fast, secure connections with global servers, so you can stream from anywhere with ease.
💰 60-day money-back guarantee 🔓 Unlocks free World Cup games
Of course, there are other options if Norton VPN isn’t to your liking. ExpressVPN is a solid pick for TV streaming, thanks to support for multiple platforms and intuitive Smart DNS capability – the last of which is a good solution for TVs that don’t support VPNs as standard.
As a rule of thumb, if your TV OS is Android TV, you should find it easy to set up the VPN direct on your TV set. If you've got a Samsung or an LG and would rather keep things simple, then your Fire Stick or Apple TV box is best.
I’ve tested a lot — and I mean a lot — of the best Bluetooth speakers. More than 50 to be exact. And if we’re talking about sheer popularity, then one brand is the clear and obvious top dog: JBL. For good reason too. In my years of testing, I’ve found that JBL regularly delivers the ideal blend of quality and affordability, regularly producing Bluetooth speakers with great sound and impressive durability at an easy-to-stomach price.
JBL also makes loads of different options, so I though I'd help you narrow things down a bit, and have picked out three JBL speakers I’d actually spend my own money on — with speakers for all budgets.
I’ve selected a small, budget-friendly speaker, a mid-priced maestro, and a premium pick that’s ideal for parties — there really is something here for everyone. If a speaker hasn't make this list, it’s by no means a vote of no confidence; this is simply a list of the three I’d personally grab right now.
1. JBL Go 5
(Image credit: Future)
Let’s start with the small yet mighty JBL Go 5, which I recently reviewed and rated five stars. The Go 5 is, in my view, the best small speaker on the market right now, offering clear, precise, and well-balanced sound, alongside an extremely hardy build, and a stellar feature-set.
As a mini speaker, the Go 5 won’t be able to belt out earth-shaking bass, but it plays to its strengths. Low-end sound is agile and punchy rather than ‘boomy’ and uncontrolled. Meanwhile, mids are clear and composed, and treble is highly articulate, resulting in great sound within a small package.
There’s also USB-C audio for lossless playback and EQ options to tailor audio to your specific tastes. The Go 5 has a more layered, full sound than its predecessor, the JBL Go 4, so if you own that model, I’d still recommend upgrading.
Another reason to opt for the Go 5 over the Go 4 is its design. The newer variant is equipped with edge lighting that makes listening to music even more immersive — especially in low-lit rooms if you want a bit of ambience. Waterproofing also got a boost to IP68, meaning the Go 5 is fully dustproof and capable of surviving a 1.5 meter dunking underwater for as long as 30 minutes — ideal for beach trips and pool parties.
Mix in solid battery life, Auracast compatibility, as well as a drop proof exterior, and the JBL Go 5 really is the full package — albeit a small-sized one. It’s typically available for $54.95 / £39.99 (about AU$75) as well, meaning it’s an absolute bargain.
2. JBL Flip 7
(Image credit: Future)
If we’re talking about value for money, then the JBL Flip 7 might just be the greatest Bluetooth speaker I’ve ever tested. Big statement, I know.
The reason for this is actually fairly simple: the sound it produces defies belief — not only based on the speaker’s low price, but also on its low footprint. Yes, the five-star Flip 7 is very compact, but it produces big, impactful sound, with strikingly impactful bass that demands your attention. But this doesn’t come at the expense of the rest of the frequency range. Mids are layered and intricate with vocals sounding especially well-defined, while treble sounds exert a level of expressiveness that’s beyond expectation.
Elsewhere, the Flip 7 carries over a lot of the Go 5’s greatest features, like an IP68 rating, USB-C audio, Auracast, and PlayTime Boost if you need a bit more battery life — though the standard 14 hours should get you a decent way. Sure, there’s no edge lighting on this one, but it's a clear step-up in terms of sound quality and power — it has a 35W maximum power output compared to the Go 5’s humble 4.8W.
At $149 / £129 / AU$179, the Flip 7 already overdelivers against its asking price, but I’ve seen it pop up on sale plenty of times, so keep your eye out for a sweet deal.
3. JBL Xtreme 5
(Image credit: Future)
Last but most definitely not least, I have the JBL Xtreme 5. If you’re working with a larger budget, want massive sound, or want a speaker for parties, then this one’s for you. This model was released alongside the Go 5, so I also reviewed it very recently, and like its small counterpart, it earned a glowing five-star review.
But what makes the Xtreme 5 so special? Of course it has all of the aforementioned features, whether that be IP68 dust and waterproofing, wired lossless playback or personalizable EQ. But the big difference is made in the audio department.
The Xtreme 5 has a massive maximum power output of 130W, meaning it can supply seismic sound, with thumping bass, driven and direct mids, and vibrant highs. Although it's a great performer all-round, it really is the low-end that wows. I described this model’s bass as “mesmerizing” in my review, and during testing I was blown away by the sheer might of its low-end output, which was significantly improved from the JBL Xtreme 4.
In addition, the Xtreme can squeeze out up to 28 hours of playtime, has JBL EasySing Mic compatibility for karaoke, and like the Go 5 it has customizable LED lighting. If you want the ultimate portable party speaker, look no further than this. The Xtreme 5 usually sells for $399.95 / £329.99 (about AU$560), which is very competitive in the upper echelons of the Bluetooth speaker market, although it's undoubtedly quite the investment.
England fans are dreaming of FIFA World Cup 2026 being the tournament where football finally comes home, but first the Three Lions must back up a positive opening Group L fixture, with another against Ghana in Boston.
Thomas Tuchel's men showed in their thrilling win over Croatia why they are among the leading contenders to lift the trophy with an exciting attacking display in Dallas, as Harry Kane's first-half double and goals after the break by Jude Bellingham and substitute Marcus Rashford secured a 4-2 victory. The only concern was a defensive frailty punished by Croatia, who twice drew level before the interval, with Marc Guehi pushing for a start. Another victory seals England's spot in the round of 32, but they must avoid any temptation of looking past today's opponents.
On a six-game winless run, Ghana needed a last-gasp winner to beat Panama 1-0 in their opening game, as Caleb Yirenkyi popped up five minutes into second-half stoppage time to spare their blushes against a nation yet to earn a World Cup point. Tournament football is all about getting the job done, though, and experienced manager Carlos Queiroz – at his record fifth World Cup in a row – will know that better than anyone. The former Man Utd coach is one of several familiar faces in the Black Stars' setup, with Man City forward Antoine Semenyo, Leicester City duo Jordan Ayew and Abdul Fatawu, and Coventry City striker Brandon Thomas-Asante among their options in attack.
So, read on as we show you exactly how to watch England vs Ghana for free from anywhere in the FIFA World Cup 2026.
How to watch England vs Ghana for free
England vs Ghana is available to watch for free in multiple countries, including the UK, Australia, Brazil, Belgium, Ireland, Netherlands, Switzerland and Turkey.
🇬🇧 UK: BBC (Full game) | YouTube (First 10 mins only)
Abroad? Can't access your free stream? Unblock your free World Cup stream with Norton VPN — more on that below.
Use a VPN to watch England vs Ghana live streams
It’s the World Cup, and if you’re traveling, you might discover your usual England vs Ghana stream is suddenly unavailable due to geo-restrictions.
Don’t worry, that’s exactly where a VPN can help. A virtual private network lets you connect to servers around the world so you can securely access your usual World Cup coverage as if you were back home.
Watch your free World Cup stream without limits. Norton VPN delivers fast, secure connections with global servers, so you can stream from anywhere with ease.
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Visiting the US from the UK? You can still watch your World Cup stream for free thanks to Norton VPN (try for 60 days).
How to watch England vs Ghana in the UK
UK customers are in luck as they can stream England vs Ghana for free on the BBC. Live coverage is on BBC One and BBC iPlayer.
You can also watch live build-up for free on the BBC Football YouTube channel from 8.15pm – plus the first 10 minutes of the game for free. Annoying it cuts out after 10 minutes, so be prepared!
Use Norton VPN to unlock your local stream if you're traveling abroad today.
Don't forget: you require a TV license and a valid UK postcode for an account (e.g. SE1 7PB).
How to watch England vs Ghana in Australia
(Image credit: free)
England vs Ghana will be shown for free in Australia on SBS On Demand.
The streaming platform has every game of the tournament for free, making it the perfect place for your World Cup viewing.
Traveling for work or on holiday? A VPN like Norton VPN can help unlock your free stream.
How to watch England vs Ghana in Canada
(Image credit: Other)
In Canada, TSN will be broadcasting England vs Ghana.
You can live stream via the TSN+ streaming platform, which costs CA$8 per month or CA$80 per year.
Outside of Canada? Use Norton VPN whilst you're traveling away from home to unlock your stream.
England vs Ghana: Match Information
What time does England vs Ghana start?
England vs Ghana kicks-off at 9pm BST / 4pm ET on Tuesday, June 23. That's 6am AEST on Wednesday, June 24 in Australia.
What are the squads for England vs Ghana?
England
Goalkeepers: Dean Henderson (Crystal Palace), Jordan Pickford (Everton), James Trafford (Manchester City).
Defenders: Dan Burn (Newcastle United), Marc Guehi (Manchester City), Reece James (Chelsea), Ezri Konsa (Aston Villa), Tino Livramento (Newcastle United), Nico O'Reilly (Manchester City), Jarell Quansah (Bayer Leverkusen), Djed Spence (Tottenham Hotspur), John Stones (Manchester City).
Midfielders: Elliot Anderson (Nottingham Forest), Jude Bellingham (Real Madrid), Eberechi Eze (Arsenal), Jordan Henderson (Brentford), Kobbie Mainoo (Manchester United), Declan Rice (Arsenal), Morgan Rogers (Aston Villa).
Forwards: Anthony Gordon (Barcelona), Harry Kane (Bayern Munich), Noni Madueke (Arsenal), Marcus Rashford (Manchester United), Bukayo Saka (Arsenal), Ivan Toney (Al-Ahli), Ollie Watkins (Aston Villa).
Ghana
Goalkeepers: Lawrence Ati-Zigi (St. Gallen), Joseph Anang (St Patrick's Athletic), Benjamin Asare (Hearts of Oak).
Defenders: Alidu Seidu (Rennes), Jonas Adjetey (VfL Wolfsburg), Abdul Mumin (Rayo Vallecano), Gideon Mensah (Auxerre), Abdul Rahman Baba (PAOK), Jerome Opoku (Istanbul Basaksehir), Kojo Peprah Oppong (Nice), Derrick Luckassen (Pafos), Marvin Senaya (Auxerre).
Midfielders: Caleb Yirenkyi (Nordsjaelland), Thomas Partey (Villarreal), Abdul Fatawu (Leicester City), Kwasi Sibo (Oviedo), Antoine Semenyo (Manchester City), Elisha Owusu (Auxerre), Augustine Boakye (Saint-Etienne), Kamaldeen Sulemana (Atalanta).
Forwards: Jordan Ayew (Leicester City), Brandon Thomas-Asante (Coventry City), Christopher Bonsu Baah (Al-Qadsiah), Inaki Williams (Athletic Bilbao), Ernest Nuamah (Lyon), Prince Kwabena Adu (Viktoria Plzen).
Group L Table
Position
Team
GD
Points
1
England
2
3
2
Ghana
1
3
3
Panama
-1
0
4
Croatia
-2
0
Can I watch England vs Ghana on my mobile?
Of course, most broadcasters have streaming services that you can access through mobile apps or via your phone's browser.
You can also stay up-to-date with all of the key World Cup moments on the official social media channels on X/Twitter (@FIFAWorldCup), Instagram (@FIFAWorldCup), TikTok (@FIFAWorldCup) and YouTube (@FIFA).
We test and review VPN services in the context of legal recreational uses. For example:1. Accessing a service from another country (subject to the terms and conditions of that service).2. Protecting your online security and strengthening your online privacy when abroad.We do not support or condone the illegal or malicious use of VPN services. Consuming pirated content that is paid-for is neither endorsed nor approved by Future Publishing.
Kaleidescape launches the first 8K movie player certified by the 8K Association
But the new 4K Cinematic format for higher-quality 4K is the exciting bit
$4,995 (about £3,777 / AU$7,180)
Kaleidescape makes some truly spectacular 4K video players, and now there's an 8K version. It's "the world's highest-fidelity movie player," says chairman and CEO Tayloe Stansbury. "It brings movie lovers closer to the filmmaker's intent, with cleaner detail, true-to-life color, and a more natural presentation that dramatically improves the viewing experience of any display."
It's also a world first. The Kaleidescape Strato K is the first 8K movie player that's been certified for 8K by the 8K Association.
That's good, but the fact that it's the first such accreditation points to the problem with 8K. Buying 8K hardware right now is a bit like being the first person in the world to buy a fax machine: who are you going to send faxes to? Similarly, with 8K movie players and 8K TVs, what 8K movies are actually there for you to watch?
That means the Strato K, while impressive, is a bit of a gamble: you're buying hardware in the hope that the 8K movie trickle will become a flood, and I'm just not sure that rain is ever coming.
So the most important new feature might not be the 8K support, but instead a new format that Kaleidescape calls "4K Cinematic".
Here's Kaleidescape's graphic showing how 'Cinematic 4K' compares to other 4K options (Image credit: Kaleidescape)
Kaleidescape Strato K: key features and price
Kaleidescape's 4K Cinematic is a format designed to deliver even better 4K picture quality, and it does that by using less compression. Movies are encoded at around 110Mbps using the HEVC codec. Kaleidescape says that's compared to around 60Mbps for 4K Blu-Ray, and around 17Mbps for standard 4K streaming services.
It's worth noting that those figures aren't the maximum bitrates for the formats — for example Blu-Ray can go up to 144Mbps, though 80Mbps is a more standard ceiling — but are the bitrates typically used in commercial releases.
In addition to the higher bitrate, 4K Cinematic uses 4:4:4 chroma sampling rather than the 4:2:0 of most commercial movie releases, meaning more accurate colors and less 'banding' or other color artefacts.
The downside of those higher bitrates is that you'll need a lot of storage: as FlatpanelsHD notes, the player only has 1TB of storage – equivalent to around seven 4K Cinematic titles, as those are 1.5x the size of normal 4K movies. Like other Strato players it's really intended to be teamed up with the firm's Terra servers.
Kaleidescape will label the higher-quality movies as 4K Cinematic in its movie store and on the Stratos K interface to differentiate them from standard 4K versions. Prices will be from around $10 to $30, and the initial raft of titles includes Top Gun: Maverick, F1: The Movie, Superman, Project Hail Mary, Dune: Part Two; Sinners, Predator: Badlands, Mortal Kombat II, Avatar, Tron: Ares, Thunderbolts, and others.
4K Cinematic supports Dolby Vision, Dolby Atmos and DTS:X — but Dolby Vision isn't supported by the Stratos K player in 8K movies, which are SDR or HDR10. The maximum frame rate for 8K is 30 fps via HDMI 2.1.
The Strato K has a recommended retail price of $4,995, which is $1,000 more than the five-star 4K Strato V. We are really looking forward to seeing what the new movie format looks like…
Thinking of buying a new TV?
Try our TV size and model finder! You tell it how far you sit from your TV, we'll tell you what size to buy based on viewing angle advice from image quality experts, and we'll recommend our three top TVs at that size for different prices.
There's a hidden twist with the configuration of the Steam Machine's RAM
Most devices have a single 16GB stick, but some have a pair of 8GB modules
A single or dual configuration may not make much difference in many cases, but it can in some scenarios — and some gamers really aren't happy about this
You may be aware that the Steam Machine has 16GB of RAM, but what you may not know is that it's likely present as a single stick of 16GB DDR5 memory, rather than the preferable configuration of twin 8GB sticks — although you may get the latter.
Confused? I'll come back to that wrinkle in a moment, but in the main, it seems most Steam Machines have the single 16GB loadout, which as Digital Foundry explains is due to Valve having difficultly securing 8GB sticks of memory.
As Steam Machine engineers Pierre-Loup Griffais and Yazan Aldehayyat said in an interview: "It was quite literally impossible to buy 8GB [sticks], at least at the quantities we're looking to buy mostly because everybody wants higher storage, and that's more profitable, so all the capacity shifted to that."
In short, it was either go with 16GB sticks for the most part — which were in more plentiful supply — or shelve the Steam Machine project.
Why is a pair of 8GB RAM modules better? Because it makes use of dual-channel memory — essentially both sticks working in parallel — for a performance boost, which you obviously can't get with just one stick. So, your next question is likely to be: how much of a difference is there?
A dual-channel setup is nothing like twice as performant for gaming, of course, but there is a (situational) boost, although Valve's engineers argue that, by and large, it's not a noticeable one with DDR5 memory.
Aldehayyat says that these two configurations (single or dual) are "pretty comparable" in actual games, as opposed to certain benchmarks where weaknesses may show up in a more pronounced way for the single stick.
In fairness to Valve, it's true that in a lot of gaming scenarios with the Steam Machine, having all your DDR5 RAM in one block won't make any real difference, at least not one that's noticeable in terms of the smoothness of your gaming experience. That's especially true at higher resolutions where the likes of 4K puts much of the workload on the shoulders of the GPU.
However, in games which are more demanding on the CPU, that's less true, and you may find that the single stick configuration is a drag on performance, possibly hitting you with more stutter (dropping to much lower frame rates more often).
As Digital Foundry points out, an increasing number of games tax the CPU, notably heavyweight open-world titles such as Crimson Desert, or the likes of Baldur's Gate 3 or Cities: Skylines.
Analysis: single or dual lottery — although there's actually a benefit to the latter, too
(Image credit: Shutterstock / Dean Drobot)
Let's return to the RAM lottery twist I mentioned at the outset, which is that as explained by Griffais in a separate Gamers Nexus video (which was flagged by Wccftech), some Steam Machines have a pair of 8GB sticks (if this memory was available in certain regions at the time of production — and it doesn't sound like it was in many cases).
There could be an upside to the single 16GB loadout, mind you, and that's if you intend to upgrade the RAM in the future. With a spare memory slot, you can buy another 16GB stick to easily double up to 32GB down the line — but if you have two 8GB sticks, that can't be done (you'll need to buy two 16GB modules, and entirely replace the existing ones, at a greater cost).
So, if you're worried about all this, should you be opening your Steam Machine to check your RAM configuration, with a view to switching to a pair of 8GB sticks if you have a single 16GB module (while selling the latter)? I don't think that's a great idea, because for starters, Digital Foundry makes it clear that getting to the RAM and replacing it "requires significant disassembly of the machine", and possible risks therein. It's certainly not something a relative tech novice will want to attempt, and honestly, the performance upside of switching to a dual-channel setup (if you have a single RAM stick) is not really worth all the hassle.
Overall, this is a less-than-ideal situation, between the single stick performance catch, and the RAM lottery aspect where you can't tell what hand you'll be dealt with your Steam Machine.
Unfortunately, Valve hasn't had much choice in the matter thanks to the memory crisis. Ruling out using dual sticks in some cases would, of course, have limited supply further, when the situation is already bad enough to have forced the price of the entry-level Steam Machine over a grand.
So, once again, thanks to the giant memory hoover that is AI, PC buyers are getting the short end of the RAM stick (to put it politely).
Predictably, many gamers aren't happy to learn about this. One Redditor complains: "This is absolutely awful. They've done the thing that sh***y prebuilds do, which is have a single stick in single channel memory which affects CPU performance."
Kaspersky warns of a WhatsApp phishing campaign spreading malicious VBScript files disguised as business documents
Running them installs ManageEngine Endpoint Central, giving attackers remote access; filenames localized boosted global reach
Victims span Brazil, India, Mexico, Singapore, UK, Spain, Taiwan, Australia, Russia, Vietnam, and Malaysia; compromise method remains unknown
WhatsApp users beware - there is a phishing campaign ongoing on the platform, seeking to infect your devices with a legitimate, but unsolicited endpoint security platform.
Security researchers Kaspersky recently published a new report detailing a campaign that starts with a compromised WhatsApp account. They could not determine how these accounts got breached but found that they were being used to reach out to the victims’ contacts and share a VBScript file masquerading as business or financial documents.
People who don’t find it strange that their contacts are suddenly sharing business documents, and end up running them, will get ManageEngine’s Endpoint Central, a unified endpoint management (UEM) and endpoint security platform built to help IT teams manage a fleet of desktops, laptops, servers, mobile devices, and other endpoints, all from a single console.
Two scripts, one malware
In this case, however, they wouldn’t be managing anything - they would just be granting remote system access to the attackers. Kaspersky says that the campaign is rather widespread, with victims located across Brazil, India, Mexico, Singapore, the UK, Spain, Taiwan, Australia, Russia, Vietnam, and Malaysia.
One of the reasons the campaign was so successful on an international level is because the filenames are localized in multiple languages, Kaspersky added.
“Based on evidence collected from multiple victims through social media reports and submitted samples, we can conclude that the threat actor had gained access to several WhatsApp accounts and used them to distribute the malicious VBScript files to contacts on the compromised users’ contact lists,” Kaspersky’s researchers said.
“At the time of writing, the exact method used to compromise these WhatsApp accounts remains unknown.”
Downloading and running the malicious files on Windows result in the deployment of two scripts that first disable UAC protections and then deploy the UEM. Kaspersky also stressed that when users open WhatsApp on the web, they must first download the files, but when they open the desktop client, the files can be executed directly via Windows Script Host.
For the Waaagh! There's never been a better time to get into, or get back into, Warhammer than the launch of a new edition. Games Workshop's little sci-fi-themed plastic miniatures are usually prohibitively expensive, but new editions often come with large bundles of miniatures sold at a discount with the core rules of the game, centred around Space Marines fighting a different enemy each time.
This year is no different. With 11th Edition and the Armageddon box set arriving earlier this month, it's the mean, green, chaotic alien foe known as orks that get the spotlight — the set contains full armies of 23 Space Marines and 38 orks, along with core rules and accessories. As someone who used to collect ork models, these Amazon Prime Day discounts are proving too tempting to resist.
Save a cool $50 on the Warhammer 40,000 11th Edition box set, themed around the battle for the planet Armageddon. It's an expensive set, but if you buy its components separately they'll cost you far, far more than $250. Buy the box and split it with a friend. But be quick!View Deal
Although it's a relatively small discount, you save a further £10 by not buying direct from Games Workshop. For 23 Space Marines and 38 orks models, including normally pricey vehicles, this is a steal. You also get the 11th Ed core books. View Deal
I’ll be honest: I’ve yet to be really sold on AI laptops. The problem is, laptop makers like Apple, Samsung, HP, Microsoft, and more have been trying to convince us we need a device capable of local AI tasks by suggesting it can help us write emails (I can do that already) and generate images (a fun distraction initially, but I quickly lose interest – and there’s something about AI-generated images, videos, and music that gives me the ick).
It left me feeling as if even the best AI laptops are more of a gimmick used by companies just trying to get us to buy new devices, rather than something revolutionary.
However, after talking to Dr Liv Grant, a technology influencer, science podcaster, and ‘PhD Queen’, I’m actually excited about the implications of on-device AI in laptops, especially for students.
Dr Liv Grant recently ran a vibe coding workshop with Apple, where she showed students with no coding experience how they can create apps using MacBooks and local LLMs (Large Language Models, the tech that modern AI as we know it is based on) and spoke to me about the laptops she uses and recommends to students.
(Image credit: Getty Images / Moor Studios)
With the Back to School period approaching and Prime Day sales in full swing, students and their parents will be looking for the best student laptops to see them through college and university, so I was keen to get Dr Liv Grant's recommendation.
“I have a MacBook Neo,” she told me, “that’s great for people who are beginning to code. For someone who is learning online and branching into something less data-heavy, such as web developing, it’s a great choice.”
"With on-device AI, you don’t need internet connectivity."
The Apple A18 Pro features an NPU (Neural Processing Unit), which Apple calls the Neural Engine, and is the part of the chip that enables on-device artificial intelligence.
What’s on device AI?
Let’s back up a bit for a minute. You might be wondering what on-device AI means, and what makes it different from online AI chatbots such as ChatGPT.
ChatGPT, Claude and other popular AI chatbots are mainly cloud-based and accessed via the internet. On-device AI means that AI tasks such as image or text generation are performed on the device itself by the NPU using a local LLM.
You don’t need an AI-capable laptop or device to use cloud-based AI tools – all you need is an internet connection. However, devices that can run AI locally offer plenty of benefits, as Dr Liv Grant explained.
“With on-device AI, you don’t need internet connectivity. I’m always working on the go; especially when working at university, I’d work during my commute. The Wi-Fi on public transport can be awful, and it would interrupt my work.”
(Image credit: Getty / lucky sun)
This is probably the most noticeable benefit for many people. If you’re doing important work that requires AI tools, using those tools locally on the device means that if you lose your internet connection, you can still keep working – and you won’t be in danger of losing your work.
Running those tasks locally has privacy and security benefits as well, as you’re not sharing data, files, or any other information with a remote third party, which is the case with cloud-based AI tools. For extremely sensitive data, or even personal things like using AI to help edit family photos, you should use on-device AI.
To ensure a laptop you’re considering buying is capable of on-device AI, you should check to see if it comes with an NPU (or Neural Engine if you’re looking at MacBooks).
The good news is that most modern chips from Intel, AMD, Qualcomm and Apple feature NPUs. Windows 11 laptops with these chips will most likely be labeled as ‘Copilot+ PCs’ – not the best name, but that’s Microsoft for you. Meanwhile, Apple products will be labeled as being ready for Apple Intelligence.
(Image credit: Getty / Moor Studio)
NPU performance is often measured in TOPS (Trillions of Operations Per Second). The higher the TOPS, the faster the NPU will complete AI tasks. Windows 11 laptops with an NPU of 40 TOPS or more can be labeled as a Copilot+ PC, for example.
This is why Dr Liv Grant suggests the MacBook Neo is best for less-intensive AI tasks, as its NPU is capable of around 35 TOPS, while it's also limited to 8GB of unified memory.
So, the MacBook Neo is fine for beginners, but if you have more ambitious plans that require on-device AI, you’ll want to go for a device with an NPU capable of higher TOPS and offering more RAM.
Light as air
Because of that, Dr Liv Grant uses a MacBook Air for the majority of her coding and AI work. It’s a great alternative due to its thin and light design (ideal for people who work while traveling) and its relatively affordable price (the 13-inch MacBook Air with M5 chip starts at $1,099 / £1,099 / AU$1,799, and again, there’s a student discount that’ll knock $100/£100/AU$160 off the price if you qualify).
It's also far more capable when it comes to day-to-day tasks and on-device AI, thanks to its M5 chip and 16GB of unified memory to start.
While Apple doesn’t officially disclose the TOPS of its chips, we estimate that it’s around 133 TOPS – which, on paper, makes it around four times faster for AI. Combine that with the larger amount of faster unified memory, and the MacBook Air becomes an excellent mobile AI workstation. At Dr Liv Grant’s vibe coding workshop, the participants all used a MacBook Air.
The final tool in Dr Liv Grant’s MacBook arsenal is a MacBook Pro, which she primarily uses for content creation for her extremely popular Instagram and TikTok accounts. For students (or anyone, for that matter)looking for a laptop that can handle complex AI tasks as well as demanding creative workloads, a MacBook Pro might be a wise investment, but it is a lot more expensive.
(Image credit: Getty / lucky sun)
All about the vibe coding
So, what’s the importance of AI for students? While a lot of focus has been on how AI can help students research and study, Dr Liv Grant suggests vibe coding is where it can make the biggest difference, and not necessarily just for programming students.
“Vibe coding is where you use AI or a chatbot tool to help you write code,” explains Dr Liv Grant. “For example, I have an idea for an app to help content creators do a job – a few years ago I’d have had to learn the language, the syntax, the codebase from scratch. With vibe coding you can use AI to help you.”
As Dr Liv Grant is keen to stress, vibe coding isn’t a replacement for traditional coding, and she is familiar with many programming languages. Instead, it’s a tool that can help coders experiment and get creative while still being productive.
"Everyone should use vibe coding."
Dr Liv Grant’s mention of coding languages is an interesting one, as there’s a huge range of languages used. Web developers, for example, might use JavaScript, while someone making Windows 11 apps would use C#, and someone coding for Macs would likely use Swift. Being experienced with one coding language doesn’t mean you’ll be ‘fluent’ in others, and that’s where vibe coding can really help.
“Even if you know what you’re doing, everyone should use vibe coding,” Dr Liv Grant suggests.
In her workshop, students with no coding background used MacBook Airs to create an app. “We made a pomodoro timer app using LLM studio, picked a vibe coding tool such as ChatGPT, Claude, or a local one, and gave it three prompts.”
(Image credit: Getty / Moor Studio)
The AI tool would then give examples of code to use in the desired language. “With the first prompt,” explains Dr Liv Grant, “there were some errors, but those were easy to fix.” This is where a basic understanding of coding and syntax comes in, as Dr Grant used her coding experience to correct any mistakes in the AI-generated code.
The ease of vibe coding combined with more affordable laptops such as the MacBook Neo “opens up the world of coding to so many people – people in lower socioeconomic groups, students, anyone,” Dr Liv Grant told me. “It’s very exciting; students have so many ideas, and vibe coding helps those students realize those ideas without having to learn entire programming languages.
“During WWDC, Red Bull Basement ran a competition for people to pitch their ideas for an AI tool or app. All the entrants were using vibe coding. They didn’t have a background in coding.”
To me, that sounds both exciting and worrying. Exciting because it could mean that new (once-marginalized) voices, ideas, and products come to market. Someone who once might have had a great idea for an app, but never did anything with it as they were unable to code, could now rustle up a prototype with vibe coding.
Similarly, someone without a coding background who needs an app for a specific task could make their own rather than trying to find someone who would do it for them.
However, I’m also worried – could vibe coding mean an influx of slop apps? And what about programmers, will they be out of jobs? Is it even worth becoming a programming student?
“Yes,” says Dr Liv Grant when I ask her if people should still study to become programmers, “but maybe not in the depth we used to learn coding in. Learn basic syntax, how code works,” Dr Grant suggests. Those skills will prove essential to ensuring any vibe-coded project has a base level of quality. As for programming as a career? “It’s going to move more towards how good you are at interacting with AI and how good you are at prompting.”
I left our conversation with a newfound appreciation for how AI can help students, especially when it comes to vibe coding, and how that, combined with more affordable devices like the MacBook Neo (even considering its limitations), could make app developing much more accessible.
It’s certainly an interesting time, and if you or someone you know is considering getting a laptop to vibe code on, I’ve picked some of my top choices below. Make sure you also follow Dr Liv Grant on TikTok and Instagram for more fascinating insights into tech, science and Epigenetics.
If what we talked about here has got you interested in getting a MacBook for vibe coding (and more), then check out these fantastic MacBook Prime Day deals I've hand-picked below.
Prime Day MacBook deals
The MacBook Neo is in stock with all colors at Amazon today, with a small price cut, too. The latest MacBook packs a 13-inch Liquid Retina display, an A18 Pro chip, 8GB of RAM, 256GB of storage, and up to 16 hours of battery life, all for under $600. It's no wonder this latest model is already proving to be a bestseller.
A great-value older MacBook Air that still holds its own against the newer model. You get 512GB SSD storage and 16GB RAM together with an M3 chip that still feels fast. This deal knocks 38% off the 13-inch laptop's price.View Deal
With an impressive $150 discount, this Prime Day deal addresses our main complaint about the M5 Air: it's pricier than the previous model. Now, you're getting the latest chipset, 16GB of RAM, and a bigger 512GB SSD for much less, with a price that arguably challenges even the budget MacBook Neo when it comes to outright value.
For creative professionals, the 14-inch MacBook Pro powered by the performance-driven M5 chip is the one to choose. This beast flies through demanding workloads like video editing without skipping a beat.
Real-life experiment shows bug spray can kill Fitbit Airs
It's to do with the chemicals inside the repellent
Spray carefully, as you won't be covered under warranty
Here at TechRadar we've been rather impressed by what the Fitbit Air has to offer, but one unfortunate user has found out the hard way that you shouldn't use bug spray when the fitness tracker is wrapped around your wrist.
The problematic incident was recorded on Reddit (via Phandroid), and it seems that a thorough and protective application of bug spray has eaten into the plastic component of the Fitbit Air, stopping it from functioning.
"Went on a hike this weekend with my Fitbit Air," reads the original Reddit post. "I've had it for 14 days now, and I found out that bug spray will destroy it. I had put some on the cuffs of my hiking shirt and it transferred over to the device and broke down the plastic."
To make matters worse, the user reports that the same fate befell his wife's Fitbit too (though it's not clear if that's also a Fitbit Air). The original post ends with a recommendation to "save your cash for something built better".
The Reddit detectives went straight to work, determining that it was likely the chemical DEET (N,N-diethyl-meta-toluamide) causing the problem. It's widely used in insect repellents, and is pretty harsh on plastics as well as bugs.
And sympathy seems to be in short supply on the Reddit thread. "The documentation very clearly states that it shouldn't come in contact with sunscreens and bug sprays," writes one poster, while another says: "This is on you buddy."
Google isn't being particularly sympathetic either, telling the affected user that the damage counts as environmental or accidental damage, and so isn't covered under the warranty. No replacement Fitbit Air will be forthcoming in this case.
There have been other stories like this in recent days, so it seems a substantial number of people aren't aware about the damage that insect repellent can do. As ever, always read the small print — on both your fitness trackers and your bug sprays.
Gears of War: E-Day studio creative director Matt Searcy says players will "care about the fall of" the game's singular city setting
Searcy says "environmental storytelling" deepens the game's gameplay and exploration
The game is linear, but players will have some freedom in how they explore and complete missions
The Coalition wants players to "care" about Gears of War: E-Day's singular city location by deepening exploration and environmental storytelling.
That's according to studio creative director Matt Searcy, who dived into all the juicy details about the prequel's new mechanics and city setting of Kolana in an interview with TechRadar Gaming at Summer Game Fest 2026.
He said the team wanted E-Day to be different from previous Gears entries in terms of location, explaining that in order to make players care about a city that is going to be destroyed by the Locust Horde invasion.
"One of the big differences between E-Day and other Gears titles, especially Gears 5, is that rather than going from one different location to another to another, from the desert to the forest to the ice glaciers, the whole game takes place in one city, so that has a lot of advantages now," Searcy said.
"There are a lot of distinct districts in the city, so there are tons of varieties, so don't worry, some of them won't look the same. But we really wanted the city to feel like a character in our game. For the first time in a franchise, you're gonna watch something get destroyed, because it's always already destroyed [...] and for you to care about the fall of the city, you have to care about the city, of that place, and to make the stakes higher, we have to be able to go deeper."
To translate this: E-Day is restricted to one location, the city, allowing the studio to "go way, way, way deeper" in terms of world-building and "environmental storytelling."
For instance, players can travel through several areas of the city, such as the Downtown, Historic, and Military districts, and encounter things like abandoned apartments and unfinished meals, showing that people left in a hurry.
Players will also explore areas before they're destroyed, and then when they revisit them later, they will be visually different, with certain environmental assets and items that clue players in if they don't recognize them.
"Throughout the whole game, you start to feel the feeling that the characters are feeling, which is the city falling apart around us, and it's sad," Searcy said.
He later confirmed that the game is still linear, and players can't go off and do whatever missions they choose, but environmental storytelling helped deepen exploration and gameplay in this "intimate journey."
"You're supposed to go over to this place and do this thing that someone's telling you to [do]," he said, "but how you make your way there, across that neighborhood, what you come across; other people fighting, surviving, [you can] help them out on your way through.
"Just what you see in the wreckage in the city, the environmental storytelling, it allowed us to get way more variety in our gameplay than the way that you play the game, but also tell all these stories about Kalona that you might not have otherwise[seen] if we were doing hallway to hallway to hallway."
Oracle now has around 141,000 workers, down from 162,000 in 12 months
The company spent $1.84 billion in severance and related costs last year
Billions to be raised by means of new debt and equity to fund AI plans
Despite recently confirming record revenues of $67.4 billion in its just-closed fiscal year, marking a 17% rise, Oracle has laid off an estimated 21,000 workers during that same 12-month period.
The company confirmed it had around 141,000 workers on the books as of May 2026, but when it made the same report last year, it had around 162,000 employees.
However despite record revenue and drastic cost-cutting measures, share prices are down around 15% in one year largely due to concerns over massive AI-driven capex.
Inside Oracle's massive AI strategy
In a filing, the company noted that the layoffs had been impacted by various factors, including management and product changes, performance issues, other strategic shifts and business acquisitions. But AI also got its fair share of the blame, both directly and indirectly through shifting company priorities and improving internal efficiency.
During the year, Oracle spent an estimated $1.84 billion on severance packages, restructuring and other employee costs, marking a huge increase over the $374 million it spent on restructuring during the previous year.
But that's nothing compared to how much the hyperscaler plans to spend in capex this coming year – most of the $70 billion projection will be allocated toward data centers and other cloud infrastructure.
The biggest risk that investors worry about could be this funding's source though, because current plans include raising around $40 billion if it through new debt and equity instead of operating cash flow. Around $20 billion will likely come from stock issuance (per Reuters) – the company is currently worth an estimated $503.5 billion.
However, recent high-profile deals with the likes of OpenAI and Meta also speak volumes about confidence in the company from a customer point of view.
All of this while generating electricity via higher-cost natural gas fuel cells "with minimal emissions," as the company stated in its fourth-quarter release.
I'm always on the lookout for a tablet deal, and this Amazon Prime Day, I've been seriously considering picking up a discounted Amazon Fire Max 11 to add to my collection. However, after seeing the price of the Lenovo Idea Tab, which has been slashed to just £159.99 (was £219.99) in a new deal, I just can't justify the buy.
The Lenovo Idea Tab is powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 6300, which is comparable in performance to the MediaTek chip that powers the Fire Max 11. It's a much newer model with a higher resolution 2.5K 90Hz screen, plus superior Dolby Atmos stereo speakers to make streaming even more enjoyable.
It's got double the RAM for smoother multitasking, and even comes bundled with a compatible stylus pen and case. It's an absolute no-brainer when the discounted Fire Max 11 is still much more expensive at £189.99 (was £289.99).
Today's best Fire Max 11 alternative deal
This Lenovo tablet boasts a far nicer, higher resolution screen than the Fire Max 11 with smoother performance thanks to higher RAM. Its processor is similarly fast, and offers the same amount of storage space. You even get a folio case and compatible stylus View Deal
Even with £100 off, the Amazon Fire Max 11 is still the lower-value tablet of the pair. It has lesser specs, with half the RAM and a lower resolution screen, and doesn't come bundled with any extras.View Deal
Another big advantage of the Lenovo Idea Tab is its operating system. The Fire Max 11 runs on Amazon's Fire OS 8, which is based on the now rather ancient Android 11. It's a locked-down OS that basically restricts you to Amazon's limited app store unless you have the technical skills to sideload your own apps.
The Lenovo Idea Tab runs Android 15 with Lenovo's sleek ZUI skin, giving you unrestricted access to all your favorite apps, games, and streaming services.
Don't worry about the build quality either. The Idea Tab has a premium-feeling aluminium alloy frame and a smooth metal back. Having gone hands-on with the tablet in the past, I know firsthand that it feels much more expensive than the budget-friendly price would suggest.
After only two hours of playtime, it's clear that Resonance: A Plague Tale Legacy is a breath of fresh air for A Plague Tale fans. It provides an engaging narrative with fresh but familiar ground, suitable for both franchise veterans and newcomers.
It's all thanks to an original story that will leave you wanting more after every discovery — and notably, one that doesn't absolutely require knowledge of previous entries.
Asobo Studio has taken a risky but bold step in a completely different direction with Resonance, and while there is still plenty more to be seen, it's off to a great start in both its narrative and gameplay.
In Resonance: A Plague Tale Legacy (set 15 years before A Plague Tale: Requiem), we follow a familiar face that both previous main characters, Amicia and Hugo, encountered. Sophia, labelled a 'fierce young plunderer,' will be center stage as she journeys to uncover the mystery behind her past, while on the run from a gang she left behind.
Unlike anything the franchise has offered before, Asobosets out its stall in Resonance from minute one, focusing on action-adventure aspects to a greater extent, with combat that will not only entertain players but also test their mettle.
Resonance borrows from the best action-adventure games
(Image credit: Asobo Studio)
If you love Tomb Raider and Naughty Dog's Uncharted games, or even Bethesda's Indiana Jones and the Great Circle, you're likely going to have a lot of fun with Resonance: A Plague Tale Legacy.
In exploration, you'll be tackling a wide range of puzzles, many of which will require you to look through clues in a notebook (just like you would with Nathan Drake in Uncharted). Set pieces will see Sophia jumping from ledges or shimmying in tight and dangerous spots, all in a fascinating spectacle that left me smiling, ready for more.
Remember those sequences in Uncharted or Tomb Raider that saw either Nathan Drake or Lara Croft finding a key item, only to be stopped by an antagonist, leading to an epic escape? Resonance captures the essence of those moments in its own charming and entertaining way.
(Image credit: Asobo Studio)
Unlike Amicia, Sophia can wield swords and a dagger, pull enemies off of rooftops with a grappling hook, and engage in a brutal and bloody back-and-forth with enemies thanks to the game's parry, dodge, and attack functionality. You'll feel like you can hold your ground against a barrage of enemies, with a character who isn't afraid to make a foe think twice about approaching.
While some areas of sword clashes and fights can feel slightly janky, particularly with dodges or general strafing that feel as though they lack much weight, the melee mostly holds up quite well, featuring multiple skills to unlock and enhance Sophia's capability in combat.
(Image credit: Asobo Studio)
Asobo has seemingly structured Resonance's combat encounters, puzzles, and exploration very well. It doesn't feel like there are too many moments of combat, puzzles, or exploration, as each moment does just enough to keep you engaged and ends before it overstays its welcome.
Perhaps above all, Resonance features one of the best horror-like, thrilling sequences I've seen in a long time, forcing an unarmed Sophia to survive and escape a deadly and terrifying creature that can snatch her life away with very little effort.
It was during this encounter that I realized Resonance has just about everything I hoped it would in a new entry within the series, and I genuinely can't wait to see what more it has to offer when it launches later this year on August 27, 2026, on PS5, Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S, and PC.
It's nearly time to sit down and enjoy The Bear's last course. Indeed, with its fifth season set to bring down the curtain on the multi-award-winning FX TV Original, you'll want to savor every mouthful before its final end credits roll.
More importantly, though, you'll need to know when and where The Bear season 5 will be released. So, make a reservation, take your seat, and peruse the below menu — no, I'm not this analogy too far, why do you ask? — for more on its official launch date and times.
What time can I watch The Bear season 5?
Ready for one last big speech, Richie? (Image credit: FX Networks)
In North and South America, The Bear's final season will make its bow on Thursday, June 25 at 6pm PT / 9pm ET.
Armed with that information, we can work out when Carmy, Sydney, Richie, and the rest of the gang will be back on our screens in other nations, too.
US — Thursday, June 25 at 6pm PT / 9pm ET
Canada — Thursday, June 25 at 6pm PT / 9pm ET
UK — Friday, June 26 at 2am BST
India — Friday, June 26 at 6:30am BST
Singapore — Friday, June 26 at 9am SGT
Australia — Friday, June 26 at 11am AEST
New Zealand — Friday, June 26 at 1pm NZST
Where can I watch The Bear season 5?
Here's where you'll be able to catch Carmy and company in season 5 (Image credit: FX Networks)
The comedy-drama TV series will be available to watch on Hulu in the US and Disney+ everywhere else. No matter where you live, then, you'll soon have access to the show's final hurrah on one of the world's best streaming services.
Not signed up to the above platforms, but want to stream The Bear 5 once it arrives? Read our Hulu price and Disney+ price guides to see how much it currently costs to create an account. Or just refer to the price widget below for a quick rundown of each service's various tiers and price points.
How many episodes does The Bear season 5 have?
What lies in store for Natalie, aka 'Sugar', this season? (Image credit: FX Networks)
Unlike the last three seasons, The Bear season 5 won't comprise 10 episodes. Instead, it follows in its debut season's footsteps with just eight chapters.
As for each entry's runtime: at the time of this article's initial publication on Tuesday, June 23, I've seen the first seven episodes, and I can confirm that they last anywhere between 22 minutes and 52 minutes. That's including each installment's end-credits crawl, too.
Lastly, here are the confirmed titles for the episodes I've watched:
It's been 16 years since I first started using a Sony Alpha. First, the NEX-5 (until the display died on the viewfinder-less body) and then the exquisite Sony Alpha a6000. Paired with my 200mm lens, they've been the perfect setup for my bird and astrophotography. But I've struggled with the batteries.
The Sony-brand Lithium-Ion rechargeable batteries that shipped with the NEX-5 worked with the a6000 I bought second-hand (new, the a6000 will run you almost $1,000), but eventually they stopped holding their charge, and I balked at the $70-per battery for the Sony-branded replacements. After all, I could easily find cheap knockoffs on Amazon (Prime Day or not) for as little as $26 for two (including a charge base!).
It's not unusual for me to wait until Amazon Prime Day to pick up a couple more replacements, and so that's how I stumbled on this llano deal. The two packs of batteries and a charging case that includes both a screen readout to tell you the charge level for each battery and a pair of SD card storage slots (not readers!) for just $54.99 is quite a deal.
Granted, the box offers no extra battery power, which means that if you want to charge the batteries, you do have to plug it in, but after that, you can just take the case with you. It's an efficient way to store and transport the batteries and to know at a glance, which one has enough charge for a day of use. The included batteries do, by the way, also support other compatible Sony cameras, including my old NEX-5, the NEX-7, A3000, A5000, A64000, along with other Sony camera models.
It's also worth noting that Ilano ships the same system in multiple versions for different batteries types, covering some of the best Canon, Fujifilm, Nikon and other Sony cameras (I've included shopping links to other Illano versions, further below).
This stylish Sony Alpha camera charging system ships with two batteries and a magnetically sealed case that charges two batteries at once and features an SD-card slot. It works with a wide array of Alpha cameras, including the A6000, A6400, a7r, and the a5100. Just know that while it's a nice, compact, and seemingly portable size, the device only charges the batteries if it's plugged in. At least you get a cool digital readout, and this is a great deal for two battieres and a charging bay.View Deal
The big caveat here is that these third party batteries are not usually as good or long-lasting as Sony originals. One thing to note is that while the llano batteries are listed as 9 volts, the Sony original is a 1,020mAh battery. In my experience with knock-off batteries that are often manufactured in China, they lose their ability to hold a full charge more quickly and dramatically than the Sony batteries.
Part of this has to do, I think, with the less sophisticated charging bases many of them ship with. In all fairness to llano, they usually don't look like this. They're not closable cases with LCD readouts, just one to three open bays where you drop in the batteries.
Ultimately, you will spend less and may have short-term relief for your Sony Alpha battery issues (nothing like having a pocket full of batteries on a long shoot), but you should not expect these batteries to perform long-term, like Sony originals, which, by the way, I have never seen included in Amazon Prime Day sales.
I'm not a fan of the heat; I write this from my local Pret-a-Manger with the eyes of a begrudging barista burning into the back of my neck. Such is the joy of covering Amazon Prime Day in a heatwave.
All this because, despite having some of the best fans in my apartment, I'm cursed to live in a flat with windows only on one side, so there's little hope of beating the heat at home. That doesn't mean you can't keep cool, though, and to help you out I've found the best Prime Day fans, air conditioning and iced treat-making kitchen appliances to keep the heat at bay.
I've actually already shopped some of these deals myself; the first thing in my basket this year for Prime Day is Breville's Iced Coffee Maker. Cheap and cheerful at £21.99 (was £46.99), this single-serve gadget is perfect for my itsy-bitsy kitchen where countertop space is at a premium. It costs less than my weekly spend at Starbucks, too, so the long-term savings stand to be pretty significant!
Check out all the best deals I've found below.
Amazon Prime Day fan deals
Prime Day officially began today (Tuesday, 23 June), but deals on some of our favorite fans are scarce. We saw some discounts as the clock struck twelve, midnight, but unfortunately, many brands had wised up and returned products to RRP by morning.
Beyond that, we've also included our top picks that aren't currently on sale, because you may decide that it's worth paying full price to get some relief from the heat — and right now, we'd agree.
This small yet powerful desk fan is a great buy while it's dropped below £30 for Prime Day. While its smaller size means it won't be the most powerful option out there, it does mean it'll easily fit on a side table or your desk and keep you at a comfortable temperature.View Deal
With £30 off at a range of retailers, the Whisper 2 is back down to its lowest price. This pedestal fan is powerful, operates quietly, and comes with two-axis oscillation. Plus, it looks good. View Deal
Loved by Amazon customers far and wide, Levoit extends its air care products from the best air purifiers to fans, and this one in particular earned praise for its low noise level and good cooling capacity. This smart fan offers 12 fan speeds, four modes, and can be controlled with the VeSync app or voice control.View Deal
The Philips Smart Pedestal Fan Series 2000 is approachably priced at £56.05 right now, offering a cool £13 discount. This follows several other Philips fan models selling out, so act fast if you want a solid fan from a household name.View Deal
Another hand fan to watch this Prime Day is Shark's 3-in-1 ChillPill, which earned a solid score of 4.5 stars in our recent review. Now, only one colourway is on sale right now, and they did inflate the list price to make it look like a big deal, but the actual offer of £10 off on a brand-new product that mists, cools, and fans is still pretty neat.View Deal
We're not really focusing on the 'Hot' part of this right now, but it makes it a useful device for all seasons. This Dyson fan can blast you with air to help beat the heatwave, or create heat waves of its own when winter rolls back around. I have a Dyson Hot + Cool in my bedroom, and it's really useful to have one device that does it all well.
Fans are pretty utilitarian by nature, and even some of the more stylish modern options are pretty plastic-y; that's why I love Russel Hobbs more industrial loft-style floor fan, which is currently £12 off for Prime Day. View Deal
It's quite a different prospect from the tabletop DeskMate, but if you want room-wide cooling, this Govee Smart fan is a top choice. You get 12 wind speeds and 5 special modes, plus app and voice control. We awarded this fan's shorter sibling 4.5* in our Govee Smart Tower Fan review. View Deal
This Dimplex fan is a dead ringer for the Shark TurboBlade (but much cheaper) and works in a very similar way, providing a horizontal or vertical sheet of air to keep you comfortable. It works best at night, blowing a cool blanket over your bed to help you sleep even in sweltering weather.View Deal
This pocket-sized fan will keep you cool and comfortable anywhere this week, and this bundle with a carry case and cross-body strap is now cheaper than buying the fan by itself thanks to this great Prime Day deal.View Deal
At under £30, this little desk fan is a great buy on Prime Day — and I'd know because it's currently sitting on my desk at home. It folds flat so you can take it anywhere, is rechargeable so you can take it indoors or out, and packs a surprisingly powerful punch for something so compact. View Deal
I'd barely call this one a deal with a pitiful 5% reduction, but it's my go-to fan for when the mercury rises. It's powerful and quiet, even on a low to medium setting, blasting out enough cool air without disturbing sleep. I've found that the portability is a huge plus, too. You can use it as a standard tower fan, either plugged into the mains or go cordless for up to 24 hours. View Deal
Earning a fantastic 4.5 stars when we reviewed it, Govee's fan currently holds the title of our best smart tower fan, so we're very happy to see it included in the deals this Prime Day. View Deal
Also consider...
These fans aren't on offer, but with stock being so low and deals so scarce, they're well worth checking out. Many of the models listed below rank among our top recommendations, so give them a whirl!
We've had a lot of hot weather lately, so I think we'd all appreciate having a quality fan on hand. This pedestal model from the top brand Dreo is a good option. Handy features include nine speed options, 120-degree oscillation, and ultra-quiet operation, so you can run it at night in the bedroom to keep cool.View Deal
You may be thinking about upgrading your fan after the recent heatwave, so here's a great low price for the excellent Shark FlexBreeze HydroGo. This portable fan works both indoors and outdoors, weighs under 2.1kg, is easy to carry, and has cooling technology that produces ultra-fine droplets for a refreshing mist. With up to 12 hours of cordless run time, you can use it just as easily by your bed as you can in the garden.View Deal
Dyson's first handheld fan sold out almost instantly last month, so if you're tired of feeling sticky and uncomfortable, this is your opportunity to grab one and enjoy a cooling breeze anywhere. Only the Stone/Blush colorway is available.View Deal
Suitable for use indoors and out, this cordless fan is a great choice for everyday use and on holidays. I love a Shark fan, and the good reviews of its quiet operation and efficient cooling have the TableMate looking like another great example. View Deal
The Pro Mist is the most hardcore option in the FlexBreeze lineup because it comes with the mister attachment and an integrated water tank included. That means it's all set up to envelope you in a cooling cloud whenever and wherever you want.View Deal
It can blow hot or cold, making it an excellent air quality device year-round. Its lowest-ever price was £269, so keep an eye out for a Prime Day discount. Still, for the ultimate cooling experience, it's well worth it. Read more in our Dyson Hot + Cool AM09 review. View Deal
Price increase: Overnigh,t as the heatwave approached, Meaco actually raised the price of its MeacoFan 1056 from £99.99 to £127.99. Then it raised it again during the day today to a shocking £159.94. Boo. However, this is an award-winning fan; specifically, the Quiet Mark, which makes it perfect for use in the bedroom or office. Its multi-directional oscillation is great for cooling the whole room, and it's a lot better looking than your usual desktop fan. View Deal
Prime Day deals — air conditioners
If a fan just isn't cutting it, an air conditioning unit is a reliable way to actually lower temperatures in your home. Unfortunately, AC units are all but sold out now. Below, you'll find the ones still in stock (for now), plus a couple of permanent options, if you fancy getting serious and splashing a bit more cash. We'll update this section with more options if we find any.
A quick PSA on how to choose: for portable units, the spec to focus on is BTU — this stands for British thermal units, and the higher the BTU, the larger the room the unit can cool. Ideally, we'd recommend looking at models with 10,000BTU or above, unless you're only cooling a very tiny room.
Dreo is a trusted name in the aircare world, and this AC unit boasts 12,000 BTU of cooling clout. It's a bit more expensive, but it looks like a stellar option — we're surprised it's still in stock. The only downside we can see is that delivery isn't until early to mid-July. View Deal
This smaller AC unit is only rated 7,500 BTU, which means it's better suited to small rooms. It could still make a big difference in an overly cosy bedroom, though. It's well-reviewed and comes from the respected brand Dreo. Unfortunately, you'll have to wait until after the current heatwave for delivery — but let's face it, there's going to be another one before too long. View Deal
Okay, this one's not portable. But if you happen to be in search of a more permanent solution, installation by British Gas Trusted Partners is included in the price. Yesterday it was discounted by £150; no such luck today.View Deal
Another pricey-but-permanent option, with a small discount to ease the pain. It comes with silent and quiet modes, an A++ energy rating, and installation is included in the price. View Deal
Prime Day deals — Kitchen appliances
Fans aren't the only way to cool down, of course — you can also whip up something frosty in the kitchen. Whether that's a cool iced coffee or an ice cream is a matter of taste, but be sure to keep hydrated alongside your sweet treats!
Below, you'll find a selection of TechRadar-recommended appliances to make cooling drinks or snacks, and some of them are on sale for Amazon Prime Day.
Back at its lowest-ever price at Amazon, the Cuisinart Frost Fusion is a solid competitor to Ninja's various ice cream makers, offering fast frozen drinks and soft-serve ice cream with 6 modes and a slim profile to keep your kitchen counters clear. With £100 off, it's a steal for Prime Day.View Deal
Ninja's Creami ice cream maker is a household favorite ice cream maker, having pretty much revolutionised the scene when it hit the market a few years ago. This isn't the best price we've seen, but it's a sizeable £50 saving nonetheless. View Deal
In June, the Creami Scoop and Swirl dropped to its lowest-ever price of £265 at Amazon, so this £80-off deal is a pretty close call for the best deal we've seen on one of our top summer picks. We scored it 4 stars in our review, praising its delicious results, ease of use, and 13 different settings. View Deal
For the price of four Starbucks iced lattes, you can have cool caffeination at home in less than four minutes. It's not something we've personally tested, but with 2000+ customer reviews on Amazon and a 4.3-star rating, it seems a pretty popular gadget. At almost its lowest-ever price (£17.97 in 2024), this is a steal. View Deal
This weather makes an ice-cold drink extremely appealing right now, and the unique Ninja Slushi just fell back to its Black Friday price at Amazon. This kitchen appliance makes all sorts of chilled and frozen drinks, including juices, cocktails, milkshakes, and more. We loved it in our Ninja Slushi review, praising its ability to make quick and delicious drinks easily in a fun and entertaining package.View Deal
At less than £100, Sodastream's latest streamlined beverage carbonation station is a great way to keep things cool during the impending heatwave if, like me, you get bored of water easily. It's the first time we've seen an Amazon deal on this particular model, so a £60 discount is nothing to sniff at. View Deal
I'm a little tempted by this over £20 price reduction on this well-scoring blender. While it can't chop ice, it creates velvety smoothies out of fresh and frozen fruits hassle-free. On top of this, the build quality and performance impressed us, and the fact that it's even cheaper than it was on Black Friday makes this an even sweeter deal.View Deal
This is one of the first deals we've seen for the new Ninja BlendBoss, so a £35 price cut is a pretty solid start. We scored this small but mighty blender 4.5 stars in our review, praising its convenient integrated 26-ounce travel tumbler and powerful blades, making it perfect for a quick cool smoothie ahead of a busy day in the heat. View Deal
I gave this clever coffee maker a full five stars in my review because it does absolutely everything — including making delicious cold-brew. No more messing around with mason jars in the fridge; just add cold water and coffee grounds, set the program, and wait. It makes hot filter coffee and espresso too.View Deal
Smart locks have come a long way in recent years and are now incredibly easy to install and use. Gone are the days of drilling holes in your door and wondering whether the lock would actually open when triggered. The best modern locks can be fitted over your existing deadbolt, and are fast, quiet, and dependable. They work seamlessly with the rest of your smart home tech, and are so convenient that they just blend into the background.
It can be tricky deciding which one to buy, though, so I've put together a quick roundup of the three best models we've tested in the last year. Smart locks are usually region-specific, so if a particular model is only available in the US, I've recommended a comparable model for UK home-owners — and vice versa.
Best of all, every lock in this listing is on special offer for Amazon Prime Day, with most of them down to their lowest prices ever.
The best smart lock we've tested for homeowners in the US, the Lockly Visage Zeno Series is a good-looking, streamlined device that you'll be proud to have on your front door, and is noticeably smaller than previous models.
It's a piece of cake to install and use as well, particularly when integrated with Apple HomeKit. Our reviewer, Lance Ulanoff, who awarded it an impressive four and a half stars out of five, praised its on-board Wi-Fi, which means you don't need a separate hub, and the way Apple Home Key allows for proximity unlocking; pull up in your driveway, and the lock will open automatically, when the appropriate setting is enabled. It just makes life easier, which is the whole point of a smart lock.
Lance and his partner were impressed by the way FaceID "just works" with the Visage Zeno Series, and fingerprint recognition proved well-implemented as well. It's even quieter than most other smart locks, adding to the whole premium experience.
The Visage Zeno Series is usually one of the more expensive smart locks around, but this Prime Day deal makes it much more affordable. This is the cheapest it's ever been by quite a wide margin.View Deal
There aren't many smart locks with facial recognition for UK homes, but SwitchBot has you covered. Its latest Matter-enabled smart lock is down to its lowest-ever price for Prime Day.View Deal
2. Ultion Nuki 2025
FutureFutureFutureFutureFutureFutureFuture
Our reviewer James Day called the Ultion Nuki 2025 "the most well-rounded smart lock available in the UK right now" when he tested it earlier this year, explaining that it removes the friction that usually turns people off the idea of smart home security. Built-in Wi-Fi means there's no need for a separate hub, it's easy to install, and it responds almost instantly when triggered.
Its app is well-designed too, and support for the Matter standard means it will work nicely as part of a mix-and-match smart home
It carries anti-pick, anti-bump, and anti-drill credentials, meets Police Preferred specification, holds Master Locksmiths Association approval, and is backed by a £5,000 burglary guarantee, which Brisant says it has never had to pay out on.
This particular Nuki lock is designed for UK doors — if you're in the US, take a look at the Nuki Smart Lock & Keypad 2, which is very similar in terms of looks and features, and is now just $198.50 (was $269) for Prime Day.
Amazon has knocked a generous £70 off this premium smart lock for Prime Day, bringing it down to a record-low price (it was £300 for a few days earlier this year, but the price soon bounced back up).View Deal
If you're in the US, this Matter-enabled smart lock is a great option, mounting on top of your existing deadbolt for easy installation. Like the UK model, it's down to a record-low price for Prime Day.View Deal
3. Yale Linus Smart Lock L2 Lite
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Yale is one of the biggest names in smart locks, and is offering great Prime Day deals on locks for all types of doors in the US and the UK.
The Linus Smart Lock L2 Lite is made for the British market and fits over your existing lock cylinder, so there's no need to drill, making it a sensible choice for renters and anyone else who's apprehensive about taking power tools to their front door. It supports Matter-over-Thread, so it'll work nicely with the rest of your smart home devices, and there's no Yale-specific bridge necessary.
In use, our reviewer found it "unremarkable, in the best way". It simply works, responding quickly to app and voice commands, and its auto-unlock feature proved a great time-saver. The motor isn't silent (it whirrs in a business-like manner), but there's no lag, and it's effortless to use.
This easy-to-use smart lock is under £100 for Amazon Prime Day, making it the most affordable option in this guide. It's quick to install, Matter-compatible, and simple to operate, even for smart home novices.View Deal
If you're in the US, take a look at this high-quality smart deadbolt from Yale, which is almost half price in the Prime Day sale. It can be installed on most doors with nothing but a screwdriver, and can be secured in four different ways.View Deal
The Samsung Galaxy Watch9 is probably coming out later this summer. I have no confirmation of exactly what new features are going to be in the watch, but I can tell you that I wouldn't recommend getting it at launch, unless you're a Samsung power user.
In fact, it's probably the perfect excuse to get one of last year's watches in the Amazon Prime Day sales instead.
The Samsung Galaxy Watch8 series (yes, it's always stylized without the space) is comprised of the mainline Samsung Galaxy Watch8, the Samsung Galaxy Watch8 Classic, and the Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra (2025 edition). All of these watches are good, but the Samsung Galaxy Watch8 in particular was labelled "a triumph" when I reviewed it last year, as its slimmer, more comfortable profile and redesigned shape helped it cleave closer to the wrist.
Combine that with its AI-powered features and easy-to-navigate operating system, and it's a really, really good watch, earning 4.5 stars in our review. The Samsung Galaxy Watch8 Classic was similar, but the extra bulk on it took off half a star, despite the intuitive nature of its rotating bezel.
All these deals are likely so good because of Samsung's annual release cycle. Samsung tends to hold its summer Unpacked event in July or August, at which it unveils its latest crop of phones, the best Samsung watches and other mobile devices. This means that Samsung stops selling its current-gen watches and they drop in price on third-party sites to incentivize people to buy, in order to clear away old stock.
Samsung's severe discounts in the Amazon Prime Day deals indicate that this is going to be the case again this year. We're likely to see the Galaxy Watch9 series rear its head sometime this summer, along with another watch such as the Samsung Galaxy Ultra 2.
However, I wouldn't wait for these watches at the expense of a great deal on the 8 series. The Galaxy Watch8 underwent a major redesign last year, indicating 9 is going to be an iterative generation with smaller design changes.
What's more, if you wait for the 9, you'll end up buying it at full price when it launches. Therefore, if it's only going to be a marginal improvement, you're better off buying a cheap Galaxy Watch8 than you are a more expensive 9.
Convinced? Check out the best Samsung watch deals of Prime Day right now.
Samsung Galaxy Watch US deals
A 4.5-star smartwatch with super-accurate health and activity tracking, as well as AI features. This larger 44mm version has a staggering 38% off, but the smaller 40mm versions start at $229.99 (was $349.99).View Deal
Save an impressive 30% on the Samsung Galaxy Watch8 Classic, with its rotating bezel that lets you scroll through the watch's options in an intuitive way, and resembles that of a classic dive watch. It comes in one size (large, 46mm) with either black and white strap options. View Deal
Samsung Galaxy Watch UK deals
Save 25% on both smaller and larger models with LTE enabled, which means you can add them to your phone's data plan and install an eSIM for phone-free data use using only your watch. Very handy. View Deal
Save a cool 33% on the Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra in all colorways, including the fetching Titanium Blue version introduced last year. While it's not the best choice for everyone, its power, longevity (up to 100 hours!) and rugged durability means it's well-made for adventurers and triathletes. Watch out, Garmin. View Deal
AI chatbots are starting to do more than answer questions. They can now order groceries, book services, and interact with apps on your behalf. ChatGPT and Claude have both embraced this new generation of AI "actions," but they don't approach them in quite the same way. To find out how different the experience really is, I asked both chatbots to handle the same Instacart grocery order and watched what happened next.
I decided to try the same grocery order through Instacart using both ChatGPT and Claude.
The shopping list I used was intentionally simple: infant formula, a small container of ice cream, and some fruit. The goal was not to compare prices or delivery times. It was to find out what happens when two competing AI chatbots are asked to perform the exact same everyday task with the same kind of app.
Heading to checkout
I started with ChatGPT. After going to the app list and connecting my Instacart account, I told the AI that I needed infant formula, a small container of vanilla ice cream, and some fruit for delivery. The request was intentionally ordinary because ordinary shopping is where these integrations will either succeed or fail.
ChatGPT responded quickly with product suggestions and put some options into my cart. ChatGPT did not spend much time discussing possibilities. Instead, it seemed determined to move steadily toward a finished cart. Every response felt designed to remove friction and keep the order moving.
The experience reminded me of a shopper who already knows exactly where everything is located. There was very little wandering through virtual aisles. The assistant simply gathered the items and moved on to the next decision. Once the cart was ready, I said I wanted to check out, and a window opened within the chat confirming what I wanted, my payment method, and the delivery address.
A different aisle
Claude approached the same task slightly differently. First, I had to link up my Instacart account to Claude as one of its connectors. I then gave it the identical shopping list and waited to see whether its recommendations would diverge significantly from ChatGPT's. Surprisingly, they did not.
Claude suggested similar formula options, similar fruit choices, and similar ice cream products. The overlap was substantial enough that I suspect most shoppers would end up with nearly identical deliveries regardless of which chatbot they used, unless they were very specific in their request.
The checkout experience, however, followed a different path. When I was ready to check out, Claude provided a link for me to click, which opened a new tab in my browser right at my Instacart cart, with my account already logged in. It was there that I had to review and complete the purchase. Having the list already assembled made the transition smooth, but it was still a transition.
That difference may sound minor, yet it created a noticeably different feeling. ChatGPT felt like it was becoming the shopping destination itself. Claude felt like an extremely capable assistant helping me prepare for a visit to Instacart.
So while the actual shopping recommendations differed very little, the AI chatbots diverge in where they put the cart. ChatGPT's vision of the future keeps the transaction inside the conversation for as long as possible. Claude's version treats the conversation as a guide that eventually leads you to the service itself. If you're a fan of Claude, it probably won't deter you from using Instacart with the AI chatbot, but if you have no real preference based on the platform but want minimal friction, you might prefer the all-inclusive ChatGPT experience.
If I was asked to recommend just one Amazon Prime Day TV deal right now, it would be this one. The LG C5 is easily one of the best TVs I've ever tested, and it's at the top of my most recommended list.
Today's best LG C5 OLED deal
The LG C5 is the ultimate all-around TV, delivering excellent performance for movies, gaming and sports with a full suite of features and superb picture quality. The 65-inch model has dropped to $1,199.99 at Amazon and while this isn't a record-low, it's the cheapest it's been since February. View Deal
The LG C5 covers all the bases, with OLED picture quality and razor-sharp performance for movies, sports and gaming. There's a reason it tops most of our best-of lists. The 55-inch model has dropped to £977.10 at Amazon, a new record-low price. View Deal
Covering all the bases
(Image credit: Future)
As TechRadar's TV tester, the LG C5 covers every base you can think of: be it movies, gaming or sports, it's got it covered. And, it does so by delivering excellent all-around performance no matter what comes its way. It's why I gave it five-stars in my LG C5 review and why it's one of my reference TVs for testing.
The C5's picture quality ticks nearly every box. Its colors are vibrant, meaning coloful movies like Elemental really pop on screen. The oranges and blues throughout the movie looked gorgeous throughout my testing, perfectly balancing accuracy with richness.
As one of the best OLED TVs, the C5 is also brilliant for high-contrast and dark movies such as The Batman. Black tones are deep and inky and the C5 demonstrates punchy highlights, creating strong contrast. Scenes in the Batcave in particular look great. The same is true for black-and-white movies such as Double Indemnity, offering accurate black and white tones with a full range of grays.
Fast-motion movies, sports and games are no bother for the C5 too. During my testing, the C5 easily handled the flight scenes in Top Gun: Maverick with ease. Soccer games showed no signs of judder and appeared smooth throughout, hence why it's one of my top recommendations for a World Cup TV.
As for gaming, the C5 does it all. With four HDMI 2.1 ports that support 4K 144Hz, VRR including FreeSync and G-Sync, Dolby Vision gaming and ALLM, the C5 is more than kitted out to handle any gamer's needs. When I played Battlefield V on the C5, it was a joy to play, with the C5 delivering all the chaotic action perfectly, thanks to its low 9.2ms input lag time. Simply one of the best gaming TVs around.
Amazon’s big Prime Day sale is here, and we’re already seeing some cracking deals – but we've also spotted some cracking bargains on laptops away from Amazon, as rival retailers look to be competitive.
Add to that an ASUS Vivobook 14, which is similarly top-notch value direct from the company, with its price reduced from $590.19 to $449.99.
The trouble with cheap laptops is that they often make compromises with hardware that really hamper the experience.
A budget notebook might, for example, cut corners on the components front by sticking in an old, sluggish processor, or not enough system memory. We quite often see laptops that are under $500 running with the likes of ancient Intel Celeron processors, or a paltry 8GB of RAM, or maybe a tiny amount of slow (eMMC) storage.
That’s very definitely not the case with these Dell and Asus. With the Dell 16, you’re getting a plenty powerful mid-range AMD Ryzen processor as the engine of the portable, and a relatively spacious (for this price level) and speedy SSD.
With the Asus notebook, there’s a springy Qualcomm Snapdragon X CPU and again, for the price, storage (and RAM) isn’t stingy at all.
Let’s dive into the specs in more detail and see how these bargains stand out from the crowd of Prime Day laptop price cuts.
Today’s best deals for laptops under $500
AMD Ryzen 7 260 | 16GB DDR5 | 512GB SSD
The Dell 16 sports a 16-inch Full HD IPS display and an AMD Ryzen 7 250 processor with integrated Radeon graphics, backed up by 16GB of LPDDR5 RAM. You also get a 512GB NVMe SSD, rounding off a good range of components at this price point, plus the Windows 11 laptop itself has nice, clean lines (and trim bezels). At this price, it’s a great buy make no mistake.View Deal
AMD Ryzen 7 7730U | 16GB DDR4 RAM | 512GB SSD
This Acer Aspire Go is one of the most powerful laptops you can buy for less than $500 right now. It looks like a pricing mistake as it sells for less than its worst-specced sibling. It sports an AMD Ryzen 7 7730U 8-core CPU with 16GB of RAM and 512GB SSD.View Deal
This is a great price for a relatively modern laptop that has a fast and efficient Snapdragon X CPU. On top of that, you get 16GB of RAM, a 512GB SSD, and a solid battery life of up to 12 hours, which represents good value for money overall. I like it as a capable, all-around, everyday machine. Just make sure you're aware of the compatibility issues that exist with some softwareView Deal
AMD Ryzen 5 6500H | 16GB DDR4 | 512GB SSD
A small brand sold by Walmart, not an unknown quantity as we reviewed it last year. The N153 is the only one on our list that has a fingerprint reader and a backlit keyboard. Its Ryzen 5 6600H will deliver a solid if uninspiring performance.View Deal
Intel Core i5 120U | 16GB DDR5 RAM | 512GB SSD
The only convertible laptop worth buying under $500, the IdeaPad 5i is a great match for anyone looking for a large screen with a powerful processor capable of playing light games, plenty of storage and the all important 16GB of RAM. Free Microsoft 365 Premium and Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription for one year makes it a perfect gift for back-to-school.View Deal
For other bargains on quality notebooks, head on over to our roundup of the best laptop deals currently out there, and check out some other options for the Dell Inspiron 15 below.
There have only been a handful of devices that I've tested in nearly 10 years of reviewing gear that I have hated having to give back — and the Garmin MARQ Golfer (Gen 2) is one of them.
It is simply the best golf watch I have ever tested or used out on the course, and I wish I had one myself. It has the best features, the best display, the best design and build, the best and most intuitive controls, and is a thing of beauty while out on the course. It's also the best golf watch that Garmin makes to be used on the daily as a wonderful smartwatch too.
However, it's a seriously premium watch, with a seriously premium price tag to boot. But right now folks in the US and the UK can save a hefty chunk on the fantastic golf watch that might make the difference. Seriously, if you've been at all tempted by the MARQ Golfer (Gen 2) in recent years, then these prices — particularly the UK one — is absolutely worth paying attention to.
US price - A chunky $300 discount on the MARQ Golfer (Gen 2) in the US makes a sizable dent in the watch's price tag, and I think it could be a real tempter for anyone who's been saving up to go premium on their next golf device.
UK price - Folks in the UK have a seriously tempting offer here at First Class Watches, where you can save a huge £700 on the MARQ Golfer (Gen 2)! This is enormous, and I have never seen the premium watch as close to the thousand-pound mark as this. Considering this was a multi-thousand-pound watch not that long ago, this is a great deal for those on the premium device hunt.View Deal
MARQ Golfer (Gen 2) alternatives
If the price tag of the MARQ Golfer (Gen 2) is a bit steep for you still, or you're interested in another premium watch like the TAG Heuer Connected Calibre E4 Golf Edition, then you can check out a host of the latest prices and deals on a bunch of my favorite golf watches below.
What’s interesting about asking your AI to find bargains for you on Amazon Prime Day is that it takes into account what it knows about you from previous chats. The AI I use the most is ChatGPT, so that’s the one that knows the most about what I’m actually interested in and might be looking to buy.
I’ve also talked quite a bit to Gemini and Claude though, so I was interested to see what all three recommended for me, and how their advice differed.
I thought I’d start with Gemini, and it did a pretty good job. Interestingly it ignored laptops completely and instead went for three categories: Audio & Wearables, Storage & Creators and Smart Home & Productivity.
For Audio and Wearables, Gemini recommended the Sony WH-1000XM5 Headphones, which it claimed were 50% off. “If you've been holding out for premium over-ears to block out the world while working”, Gemini told me “this is likely their lowest price of the year.” When I clicked through to the deal the WH-1000XM5 were actually 20% off, for $198 (was $248) / 36% off for £179 (was £279), which is still not bad, but not as good as Gemini initially said it was.
It also recommended the Beats Solo 4 “if you prefer something lighter for travel or active use”. Again Gemini claimed these were 50% off, and this time it proved accurate with the Beats Solo 4 at $99.95 (was $199.95) / £99 (was £199.95)
Finally, it recommended the Oura Ring 4 “for screen-free health, sleep and stress tracking, the latest Oura ring is heavily discounted at up to 44% off”. The actual deal came in at 48% off for the metallic Oura 4 at $259 (was $499) / 34% off £232 (was £349).
The Beats Solo 4 are wireless on-ear bluetooth headphones with up to 50-Hour battery life. The Amazon Prime Day deal knocks a healthy 50% off the price making them a bargain.View Deal
The Beats Solo 4 are wireless on-ear bluetooth headphones with up to 50-Hour battery life. The Amazon Prime Day deal knocks a healthy 50% off the price making them a bargain.View Deal
ChatGPT’s recommendations for Amazon Prime Day
Next I turned to ChatGPT, which turned in a solid performance that was based more on what I was interested in. It knows I’d been searching for a Copilot+ AI laptop, so it recommended a few, including the Lenovo Yoga Slim 7X 14-inch laptop and the Samsung Galaxy Book6 Pro, however, they weren’t part of the Amazon Prime Day sale.
Generally speaking, ChatGPT seemed less clued into the idea of Prime Day and finding discounts than Gemini did.
Interestingly, ChatGPT did find a couple of Prime Day deals I'd be interested in. It said that I should invest in an Amazon Kindle Scribe, simply because it thought I'd find one useful: “You write constantly, generate article ideas constantly, and are working on a Tai Chi book. Scribe is one of those rare gadgets that actually changes how people capture ideas. Kindle devices are among the heavily discounted Prime Day categories this year.”
I’ve got to admit. I hadn’t considered a Scribe before, but I'm starting to like the idea.
The Amazon Kindle Scribe Colorsoft 64GB has an 11” paper-like color display with front light. Thanks to Amazon Prime Day there's a 24% discount on the latest model.
The Amazon Kindle Scribe Colorsoft 64GB has an 11” paper-like color display with front light. Thanks to Amazon Prime Day there's a 20% discount on the latest model.
One other recommendation that ChatGPT surprised me with, which it described as a "sleeper purchase" was for a 360-degree camera, the Insta360 X4 Air Starter Bundle. Sadly, again there was no Amazon Prime Day deal for it on the US Amazon site, but there was a 26% discount on the UK site with the Insta360 X4 Air Starter Bundle at £289 (was £389).
The idea of a 360 degree camera is that you never need to aim the camera again. You'll always get the shot. All you need to do is hit record, enjoy the moment, and pick the best angles later in the app. I think they're really for capturing live action shots, for when you're doing something dramatic.
It's an interesting idea, but perhaps a stretch too far for me.
Insta360 X4 Air Starter Bundle is everything you need to get started with a 360 camera. It includes the lightweight 165g 8K 360 Camera, invisible selfie stick, replaceable lenses, built-in wind guard and more. Currently 26% off the listed price.View Deal
Claude picks the deals
Finally, I turned to Claude, the AI which knows the least about me. Unsurprisingly it opted for some fairly generic Prime Day deals on tech.
It noted that the Apple AirTag 2 (second-gen) is at its lowest-ever price — a single one for around 17% off, at $24 and a 4-pack for 26% off, at $89.
It also noted that the AirPods Pro 3 are also on sale, at $179.99 (was $249)
The 2nd generation Apple AirTags are a marvelous tracker for your keychain, wallet, and more. They also have a locator with sound, simple one-tap setup with iPhone or iPad. Currently 10% off on Amazon.View Deal
The 2nd generation Apple AirTags are a marvelous tracker for your keychain, wallet, and more. They also have a locator with sound, simple one-tap setup with iPhone or iPad. Currently 15% off on Amazon.View Deal
Which AI knows you best?
But while ChatGPT gave me the best recommendations, both Gemini and Claude found some interesting suggestions for me. Of course, if I told the AI exactly what I was looking for the suggestions would be been more accurate, but the point of the exercise was to see what it thought I'd be interested in.
I think my little experiment proved that the amount of time you spend talking to an AI pays off in the long run, with more personal and useful recommendations that actually reflect what you’re most interested in.
When it comes to finding deals for events like Amazon Prime Day, the fact that ChatGPT knows me best resulted in some surprisingly accurate recommendations for me. Okay, I'm still not 100% sure I've got use for a 360-degree camera, but perhaps I just need to broaden my horizons. I definitely want to get a Kindle Scribe, though.
It looks like Amazon Prime Day is going to be an expensive one for me.
Taika Waititi's new movie Klara and the Sun has a first-look trailer
It teases Jenna Ortega as the titular AI companion, playing what's called an Artificial Friend
Klara and the Sun arrives in theaters on October 23, 2026
Klara and The Sun got its first trailer recently, and the new movie quickly grabbed my attention. Even though stories of AI companions are everywhere, this one has done a lot to stand out from the crowd.
Before we get into that, here's a quick synopsis. Taika Waititi's Klara and The Sun is an adaptation of the novel of the same name, centering around an Artificial Friend (Jenna Ortega) and the human she was bought for, Josie (Mia Tharia).
Take a look at the trailer below ahead of the movie's release on October 23, 2026.
Why I'm excited for Klara and The Sun
(Image credit: Sony Pictures Releasing)
Stories about AI companions are hardly new, and you'd be forgiven for growing a little tired of them. Whether it's sci-fi classics like A.I. Artificial Intelligence or horrors like Companion, lifelike androids are nothing new.
But I quickly found myself interested in Klara and the Sun after seeing the trailer and reading up on it. The original novel by Kazuo Ishiguro explores a dystopian world where children are genetically engineered for enhanced academic ability.
There's plenty of downsides to this, including social isolation. Children learn at home through on-screen tutors so they spend a lot of time stuck indoors. Enter the Artificial Friends, companions that can be purchased for the home where they'll keep children company without needing to be cared for like a pet would.
It's a bleak existence, but there's also something hopeful about Klara and the Sun. The trailer teases an unlikely bond between the titular AI companion and Josie, her human friend.
Outside of the interesting premise I'm also impressed by the cast. Supporting roles are played by Amy Adams, Natasha Lyonne, and Steve Buscemi, so we have some great talent attached to this.
I'm really excited to dive deeper into this world, especially since I have enjoyed Waititi's previous work such as Jojo Rabbit. I'm hoping that Klara and the Sun is just as good.
Shark PowerDetect UV Reveal review: Price & release date
List price: $1,299.99 / £999.99
Released March 2026
The Shark PowerDetect UV Reveal comes in at $1,299.99 / £999.99 —while it’s far from cheap, it’s pretty good value for what it offers. That being said, there are other robot vacuum cleaners with equally impressive features and better software at a similar price point.
Plus, you’ll need to maintain some parts of the vacuum; in particular, refills for the multi-floor cleaner ($13.99 / £14.99) and the odor-neutralizing puck ($9.99 – $14.99 / £7.99 – £15.99), as well as the usual replacement for things like side brushes and mop pads. Over time, these can add up, but you’ll scarcely find a robovac that doesn’t come with added costs at similar prices these days.
Value: 4/5
Shark PowerDetect UV Reveal review: Design
(Image credit: Future)
Out of the box, you’ll find the vacuum, base, power chord, an anti-odor puck, one refill bottle of Shark’s multi-floor cleaner, two side brushes, plus the usual array of instructions and warranty documents.
The base stands at 17 x 18 x 14 inches / 43.2 x 45.7 x 35.6 cm, and comes in either black or white — mine was the latter, and I think it looks a lot more premium than the tackier black colorway. Enclosed in the lid of the base are the 2.74-litre / 96.65oz clean and 1.18-litre / 41.62oz waste water tanks, which lift out easily thanks to the retractable handles, as well as the bagless dirt compartment — I really appreciate that Shark opted for this so there’s one less thing to routinely replace.
(Image credit: Future)
You can remove the container with the press of a button situated on the side of the dock, and it’s also HEPA-filtered. There’s also a set of two filters you’ll need to clean every 1-2 months, depending on how often you use your robot vacuum, and a slot for one of Shark’s anti-odor pucks should dusty smells be an issue for you.
(Image credit: Future)
The vacuum itself is a fairly standard, rounded 2-in-1 robot vacuum, but a little tall and hefty at 5.35 inches / 13.6cm tall. The top houses its raised puck for LiDAR sensing, which works in tandem with the front of the device, where the cameras and other sensors, including a camera as well as LED and UV lights, to navigate your home and spot messes ripe for cleaning.
If you’d rather not use the app, you can use the four touch-sensitive buttons to activate mop and vacuum modes, send the vacuum home and connect to the Wi-Fi. A soft bumper surrounds the edges of the vacuum to prevent damage from any collisions, which are remarkably rare thanks to its top-tier obstacle avoidance, and you can remove its dust bin and mop plate from the rear of the device.
(Image credit: Future)
On the underside, you’ll find the wheels, brush bar, side brush, and a singular, flat mop pad. These aren’t my favorite type — a rondel will typically offer a deeper clean, better post-clean drying and less water waste. However, Shark has designed the robot vacuum to wiggle this mop pad to agitate dirt, which goes some of the ways to make up the difference.
Of note is that the vacuum seems to be a total dust magnet. I have mine placed beneath a desk, where I wouldn’t expect excessive levels of dust — however it’s constantly lined with a thick layer of the stuff.
Design: 4/5
Shark PowerDetect UV Reveal review: Performance
Setup for the Shark PowerDetect UV Reveal is pretty simple; using the app, you’ll connect the vacuum to your Wi-Fi, give it a name (I loved some of the suggestions like Clean Latifah), and after that, the robot vacuum will run its first mapping pass. Broadly, mine was accurate; my apartment has a slightly tricky layout for robot vacuums, including a half-tiled, half-carpeted kitchen-living room, and lots of doors to dodge.
After this first pass, the app will offer you a second mapping run, this time to detect flooring types. If you plan to regularly mop hard floors and have carpets or rugs to avoid, make sure to get this out of the way during setup; I couldn’t find any way to update this map after the fact.
FutureFutureFuture
Cleaning tests
I performed my standard pickup tests using oats, cornflour and brown rice to compare performance to other robot vacuums I’ve tested, and the results were a mixed bag. When setting the Shark PowerDetect UV Reveal off for a standard, vacuum-only clean, I was immediately impressed as it zig-zagged across my floors, leaving them visibly refreshed — plus, it’s pretty quiet in action.
On hard floors, it excels thanks to a combination of its side brush, solid suction and the jet of air it blasts at hard-to-reach debris, ensuring floors are spick and span post-clean. On carpet, it’s slightly less impressive, especially in the edge cleaning department, but it still does a decent enough job. Its pickup of larger debris was very impressive on carpet, leaving little to nothing behind, but there was a small amount of powdery debris left behind on my medium-pile rugs — hair, however, is no problem, be it human or pet.
(Image credit: Future)
Next up, I tried a regular combination clean with vacuum and mopping, and that’s where my experience with the Shark PowerDetect UV Reveal became a bit more mixed. The robot vacuum first fills its water tank at the base, proceeding to concurrently vacuum and mop your floors rather than splitting out the tasks. This helps to save time and battery; however, it does increase the risk of soggy carpets.
To avoid this, the robovac will lift its hind to keep the mop pad from drenching carpets — this reduces its effectiveness on carpets, though, as it crushes the side brush, and sometimes, while navigating, it will spin round and spit water across the floor, too. However, once it reaches hard floors, the results are pretty impressive; the mop pad agitates spills and stains with a back-and-forth scrubbing motion, and will reach into corners to make sure every spot is well-cleaned.
Shark PowerDetect UV Reveal lifting its mop padFutureShark PowerDetect UV Reveal lifting its mop padFuture
It does use a lot of water, though, and especially if you’re cleaning up larger spills, that means the PowerDetect UV Reveal can leave a streaky mess in its wake. I noticed this even more so when there was lots of debris to vacuum up during the clean; the PowerDetect UV Reveal left a clump of soggy oats behind like an owl pellet as well as white streaky marks across the floor, but I wouldn’t typically recommend regularly using your robot vacuum to collect large volume spills anyway. I have especially reflective kitchen tiles, so I noticed this a lot; on my less shiny bathroom tiles, it wasn’t as much of a problem.
Powering up to a higher suction or mopping setting does result in a more thorough cleaning job, especially on carpets, but it’s worth noting that this seems to make the excess water usage more noticeable.
Some smeared oats, milady? I wouldn't advise using the Shark PowerDetect UV Reveal, or indeed most robot vacuums that mop and vacuum concurrently, to clear up high volumes of debris. (Image credit: Future)
Object detection and navigation
When the Shark PowerDetect UV Reveal works, it really works, but I encountered a fair few bugs and limitations that do impact its overall effectiveness — for example, when doing a combination clean, it sometimes skips cleaning certain areas and rooms, or neglects to clean areas I’ve specifically asked it to.
Its LiDAR scanner makes accurate room maps, though they’ll be a bit odd-looking if you have lots of furniture at floor level. That’s unavoidable, to a degree, but I wish it had investigated those areas more closely to find the real edges of the walls; that way if furniture moves around your home, you wouldn’t need to remap.
Its object detection is incredible — perhaps too good, as the robot vacuum avoided my low-hanging (but not floor-length) curtains like the plague, giving wide berth to even the most inconsequential of obstacles. Generally, it’s not too much of a problem, but improved smarts would mean there’s slightly less preparation required pre-clean to ensure your entire floor gets cleaned properly. I was also massively impressed by the ease with which it lifted itself over and cleared thresholds, chair legs, and the like, leading to quicker cleans.
UV detection in action, as well as some rugs the vacuum fought (and defeated)FutureUV detection in action. Future
UV detection
After its standard cleaning cycles, the robovac will return to its base, but the cleaning isn’t over quite yet. It’ll issue an ominous warning once it’s refreshed itself: "I detected stains. I'm heading back out to aggressively attack them."
Here’s where the magic of the PowerDetect UV Reveal is really on show; as it cleans, it flares a blue UV light, with which you can see for yourself the stubborn and sometimes invisible stains on your floor, which it will then return to after a standard cleaning run. It was pretty cringe-inducing to watch it navigate areas I hadn’t cleaned recently and see just how much grime was there.
(Image credit: Future)
Dock
After the job’s complete, it’ll return for a final time to the base and begin the mop pad maintenance process quietly in the background with just a low humming noise, washing it with hot water before drying it to reduce contamination. In my testing, the robovac lived up to its estimated 3-hour battery life; a 45-minute clean on standard settings dropped the battery by 25%. A full recharge takes roughly 4 hours, and the vacuum won’t perform new tasks when at less than 20%.
Performance: 4/5
The first of these three screenshots shows my completed floor map; as you can see from the very odd shapes, the LiDAR scanner can be quite assumptive with obstacles and won't investigate around the sides to find where the wall truly starts and ends. The second and third screenshots show two seperate occasions where I asked the robot vacuum to clean specific rooms and it elected to clean a completely different one. (Image credit: Future)
Shark PowerDetect UV Reveal review: Software and app
The app is quite restrictive when it comes to home and schedule customization; you can only have one map, so multi-floor cleaning isn’t possible, no-go zones are always rectangular and you can only create two schedules per day.
I also noticed that the robot vacuum would often get confused when it initiated a clean, forging straight to the corner of my living room and spinning there for a good few minutes before figuring out its path to the hallway. On closer inspection, this happened most frequently when I sent it to clean somewhere other than its home room; for some reason, it wanted to head straight through my wall instead of around and through the doorway.
I couldn’t find a quiet mode, either, meaning if you ever wanted to use the vacuum at night or when little ones are sleeping, they might awaken to an ominous threat from your robovac.
These issues, among other software quirks, make for the primary complaint I have surrounding the Shark PowerDetect UV reveal; its app and on-board smarts hold back an otherwise high-performance robot vacuum.
Software: 2.5/5
Shark PowerDetect UV Reveal review: Specs
Specs
Wattage (robot):
65W
Robot diameter:
13.2 inches / 34cm
Robot height:
4 inches / 10.2cm
Cleaning path width:
Not specified
Dock dimensions (H x W x D):
17 x 18 x 14 inches / 43.2 x 45.7 x 35.6 cm
Dock cord:
3.9ft / 1.2m
Weight (robot + dock):
26.9 lbs / 12.21 kg
Should I buy Shark PowerDetect UV Reveal?
Section
Notes
Score
Software and app
There are lots of features I’d expect as standard in a robot vacuum, especially at this list price, that Shark just hasn’t added. That and the litany of odd bugs drop the overall score significantly.
2.5/5
Performance
Great for vacuuming carpets, and while the mop pad is a bit of a hazard, with UV sensing in tow it offers a truly deep clean.
4/5
Design
Neutral, bag-less and easy to maintain, the only thing I could ask for would be a slightly more premium feel in its black colorway. Plus, it’s a dust-magnet.
4.5/5
Value
Given its innovative features and thorough cleaning, it’s sitting pretty at its list price compared to the competition, but loses points for the in-app experience.
4/5
Buy it if…
You value well sanitized floors With its UV detection, the Shark PowerDetect UV Reveal offers peace of mind and broadly great results, especially in the mopping department… if you can handle slow-drying floors.
You have pets Again, the UV detection comes in clutch here for invisible pet messes, but it’s also a deft hand at hair collection.
You have a large home With its great battery life and efficiency, the Shark PowerDetect UV Reveal is unlikely to run out of juice before finishing the job even in larger homes.
Don’t buy it if…
You have lots of wooden floorsor shiny tiles
While it’ll clean these floor types within an inch of their life, the residual water and cleaning solution could warp or damage wooden floors and leave streaky marks on particularly reflective ones.
You have lots of carpet Don’t get me wrong, this is an accomplished vacuum for carpets, but if you want to do combination cleans, you might end up with a few soggy spots left in its wake.
You want to vacuum multiple floors — or other smart features
I liken the Shark PowerDetect UV Reveal to a power washer in the hands of a caveman; it’s only as good as the software allows it to be, and with frustrations like single-floor mapping, ignored instructions and
Shark PowerDetect UV Reveal review: Also consider
Eufy X10 Pro Omni
Another two-in-one robovac with excellent cleaning on all floor types, plus strong mapping and navigation.
I tested the Shark PowerDetect UV Reveal for two weeks in my home, completing my standardised pickup, edge cleaning and mopping tests in addition to simulating tests for features like UV detection. I used the app, making a map of my home and testing various features like scheduling and room-by-room cleaning tasks, closely observing the vacuum when in use to note any navigation or performance issues during testing.
Naturally, Amazon sales mean great savings on the mega marketplace's own devices, and Echo speakers and displays see some of the best discounts during Prime Day.
I've tested every single Echo speaker and display in Amazon's current line-up, putting them all through TechRadar's review programme to identify which ones are worth the money. Using that experience, I've made a quiz that will recommend the best speaker for your specific needs, which you'll find below.
If you ask me, the best deal is on the Echo Dot Max, which is my personal go-to for listening to music at home, and I plan to pick up another one to create a stereo system. Right now, it's $64.99 (was $99.99) at Amazon US and £59.99 (was £99.99) in the UK. Not sure whether that's right for you? Take my quiz and once you're done, you can check out all the deals below.
Amazon Prime Day Echo deals - US
Whether you want more advanced features like Lossless High Definition audio and Automatic Room Adaptation, or just love the idea of a more premium-looking speaker with faster Alexa responses, the Echo Dot Max is a great choice. This deal for Prime Day is a new record-low price.
The Amazon Echo Dot is down to $34.99 for Prime Day. Amazon's best-selling smart speaker offers improved audio, a new temperature sensor, and all the handy Alexa features just a voice command away, such as playing music, answering questions, and checking the weather. This one was $4 cheaper over Black Friday, but it's still a strong deal.
Amazon's Echo Spot is a solid smart alarm clock that pairs a 2.83-inch touchscreen with a 1.73-inch front-firing speaker. With Alexa onboard, you can ask the assistant for the weather, play music, or, of course, schedule alarms. This Prime Day deal matches the previous record-low price we saw during Black Friday.
Amazon's best-selling Echo Show 5 is down to $59.99 for Prime Day. The latest version of the Echo Show 5 features a compact 5.5-inch display but packs impressive sound with deeper bass and clearer vocals. Voice controls are enabled through Amazon Alexa, while you can use the smart screen to listen to podcasts, watch movies, stream videos, play music, and more.
For most, this will be the perfect size smart display, though the 11-inch model below is just as good. With Alexa+ support, too, you get access to all of its advanced AI features, and an easy way to connect and control other smart devices around you home.
Amazon's larger smart display just got its biggest discount yet ahead of Prime Day. The Echo Show 11 boasts a vibrant 11-inch full HD screen and spatial audio support for room-filling sound when listening to music or watching videos. With Alexa+ support, too, you get access to all of its advanced AI features, and an easy way to connect and control other smart devices around you home.
The latest Echo Show 15 got a big refresh when it launched, bringing its specs up to speed and offering a better Alexa experience. These were the first smart displays from Amazon to see the Alexa+ treatment and, naturally, offer one of the better user experiences with Amazon's gen AI-boosted subscription service.
The new Echo Show 21 has great specs, a beautiful big screen and a better Alexa experience than older Amazon smart displays. Alongside the 15-inch model, these were the first smart displays from Amazon to see the Alexa+ treatment and, naturally, offer one of the better user experiences with Amazon's gen AI-boosted subscription service.
Whether you want more advanced features like Lossless High Definition audio and Automatic Room Adaptation, or just love the idea of a more premium-looking speaker with faster Alexa responses, the Echo Dot Max is a great choice. This deal for Prime Day is a new record-low price.
Amazon's best-selling Echo Dot is down to under £30 for Prime Day – an OK offer, but far from the previous record-low of £22.99. Nevertheless, the Echo Dot offers an improved audio experience, plus a new temperature sensor and all the handy features from Alexa, like playing music, answering questions, and checking the weather completely hands-free. As far as a cheap and cheerful smart speaker goes, it's one of the better options out there.
Amazon's Echo Spot smart clock is £25 off for Spring Deal Days — that drops it to £10 more than the record-low price. As well as a time display and wake-up alerts, this compact bit of kit can play music, check the weather and control other smart devices throughout your home.
Spending $5 on a good take-out coffee adds up over time, which is why single-serve coffee machines are a quick and easy way to give you your morning pick-me-up for a lot less.
One of the best parts about the Keurig K-Mini Mate is that you can pretend to be the barista you've always wanted to be by just the push of a button, and impress your friends with your 'skills' in the process. However, just as it is with every coffee pod machine, restocking pods is an additional cost.
But Prime Day isn't just about scoring a cheap coffee machine, it's one of the best times for you existing coffee machine owners to stock up on your favorite brands and flavors.
Today's best Keurig K-Mini Mate deal
Keurig's smallest coffee maker is mighty for its compact size, and doesn't compromise quality of flavor for a budget-friendly coffee machine. $20 may not seem like the biggest saving, but it's the lowest price we've it hit in recent months. View Deal
This works out to around 75c per single-serve, and gives you a wide variety of medium roast brews from known brands including Lavazza and Krispie Kreme. Just one of these would last you two months if you have no more than one coffee per day - or a little bit less if you require more caffeine for your daily fix. View Deal
If you're one for a sweet-flavored coffee, this variety pack covers all the groundwork from vanilla and peanut butter, to butter crunch and maple syrup, but that's just the beginning. This variety pack equals to roughly 42c per serve, so cheaper than Keurig's own selection, but do you get less pods. View Deal
For 50c per serve, you'll be inundated with pods from The Original Donut Shop, bringing diner-style coffee right your kitchen. Though it's not a variety pack and is single-flavor only, it's a great way to stock up on standard pods for when you need a break from the sweeter flavors. View Deal
In a product crossover nobody expected, the Philippines-based brand Goojodoq has launched a 2-in-1 DJI Pocket-style vlogging camera with a fan, which costs around $25 / £20.
It's a device that I seriously need right now, and I can thank filmmaker Philip Bloom for bringing it to my attention. Not for its camera skills, mind you, but for its cooling properties — it's super hot in the UK as I write. Like, scorching hot.
As a fan, the device looks decent enough; a 100-speed brushless motor, 2,500mAh battery for a run time between 2-10 hours, plus USB-C charging.
I can't seriously recommend the device as a camera, however. Details are sparse, but it looks like there's Full HD 30p video recording, micro SD storage, a gimbal with 180-degree rotation, plus a 1.3-inch display.
And you can only laugh at the idea of using both camera and fan at the same time. Can you imagine it? Lights... camera... hummmmm.
Still, it's not like it's a pricey product, with the Philippine Peso pricing conversion working out at around $25 / £20.
If you're looking for a proper compact vlogging camera, I recommend you check out the DJI Osmo Pocket 3. It has recently been updated with the Pocket 4, but the older model is equally good in many regards, and it now costs much less in the Prime Day sales. I've included the best Pocket 3 deals below.
The DJI Osmo Pocket 3 was recently replaced by the Osmo Pocket 4, but the latest model isn't currently available in the US, and we don't know if / when it will be. The Pocket 3 is now available for a record-low price of $378 in a base package, while other bundles with various accessories can be found via the same link.
Following the DJI ban, Xtra appeared, offering effectively the same quality product, for less. The Muse has similar specs to the Pocket 3, and can now be purchased for a record low $329 in a standard bundle.View Deal
There's a reason that the DJI Osmo Pocket 3 is a best-selling vlogging camera: its winning combination of gimbal-stabilized 4K video, compact design, ease of use, swivel monitor and pro audio mic pairing. That's everything a content creator on the go needs. Yes, there's the DJI Osmo Pocket 4 in the picture now, but it costs much more and is just an iterative update. Fork out a little extra, and you can get the Creator Combo for £372 which includes a DJI Mic and other accessories. View Deal
The Coalition studio creative director Matt Searcy says Active Reload is an "iconic" part of the Gears of War series
He explains that the team moved the mechanic to the middle of the screen in E-Day because "it feels better"
Searcy adds that players can learn Active Reload "much more easily" when it's placed there
Gears of War: E-Day is set to bring back the series' iconic Active Reload mechanic, but The Coalition has made some design changes.
Speaking in an interview with TechRadar Gaming at Summer Game Fest 2026, studio creative director Matt Searcy discussed new features that have been built with Unreal Engine 5, such as larger environments, like an entire city, a jump button, improved animations, and a rebuilt cover system and traversal mechanics that feel "smoother than they've ever felt before."
"All those cover mechanics are there; they just feel smoother than they've ever felt before," he said, "and then around that we just gave little new ways for you to interact with the environment, for you to traverse, options for you to take new flanking routes, just to open up our maps a little bit more. It's made for some pretty amazing additions to the gameplay, but also the world."
Searcy also touched on Active Reload, a feature almost like a mini-game, which allows players to manually reload their held weapon rather than wait for the magazine to run out of ammo.
In E-Day, the mechanic has been moved from the top of the screen to the middle by default, which Searcy said works better.
"So active reload is a huge part of Gears," Searcy said. "[It's] an iconic feature. We've moved it by default to the middle of the screen. It feels better [from] what we've played; we've tested it as part of your shooting experience."
The creative director confirmed that players can move Active Reload back to its original place at the top of the screen, but notes that there are some extra "cool" details with natural reload and other additional reload mechanics.
"Every single shell is being reloaded," he said, "so some of the weapons have additional reload mechanics."For example, players can interrupt the reload and keep playing with two or three shells if they're halfway through and then "use them really quick to like get out of danger," or they can wait until the end to get their Active Reload bonus.
He added that players will noticeably use the mechanic "telemetry-wise" and use it way more than they did when it was at the top of the screen "because you can learn it much more easily [when] it's in your face."
Identity theft is the number one crime in America, and when it comes to Prime Day sales the crooks are always looking to entice you with too-good-to-be-true deals to steal your financial info, ruin your credit score, and steal your identity.
But right now, LifeLock total is just $29.17/mo (was $34.99/mo) at LifeLock for the first year. When it comes to identity theft protection, there is a reason LifeLock is rated so highly in my guide. In the event your identity is stolen, LifeLock Total can provide up to $1,000,000 in reimbursement for both identity restoration and stolen funds, making it the ideal choice for professionals with multiple financial accounts, investments, or properties.
LifeLock Total also includes a credit lock and 3 Bureau score monitoring & reporting, 401(k) and investment account alerts, stolen wallet protection, automatic data broker removal and dark web monitoring, alongside 24/7 priority customer phone support.
LifeLock Total protects your credit and accounts, monitors the internet and social media for any hints of credential theft, and can helps secure your accounts if they are breached. Even if your identity is stolen, you'll have LifeLock experts on hand to get your life back on track. Prices are for first year only.View Deal
LifeLock Total is the pinnacle of identity theft protection, including everything needed to prevent fraud, and restore your life back to normal in the event your identity is stolen.
Your accounts (Credit, Checking, Savings, 401K, Investment) are covered by LifeLock's monitoring services, which will notify you of any suspicious activity or unauthorized transactions and withdrawals. You will also receive annual credit reports from 3 Bureaus, and a monthly report from 1 Bureau to keep you informed on changes to your financials.
I particularly like how LifeLock Total keeps tabs on your home title or property records and provides notification for any fraudulent attempts to change or transfer your property deeds.
LifeLock's automatic data broker removal scans over 30 of the most prolific data brokers every 90 days to submit data removal notices on your behalf to make sure your sensitive information isn't sold to advertisers from their sites. The dark web is also monitored for traces of your credentials, with notifications of any weak or leaked credentials.
Your social media accounts are also protected, with LifeLock monitoring for suspicious activity and account takeovers, helping to preventing account theft and fraud. You will also be sent alerts when a registered sex offender moves into your neighborhood.
LifeLock Total also 100% guarantees identity restoration in the event of identity theft, with a reimbursement of up to twelve months of your subscription payment if your identity isn't restored to good standing. In case you aren't fully satisfied, LifeLock also offer a 60-day money back guarantee.
As a gaming gadget reviewer, there's a roster of gaming gear I rely on literally every day. So if you're looking for some recommendations for products to upgrade your gaming setup this Prime Day, I've got plenty of tips for you!
You might not be surprised to hear this but I'm a serious gaming nerd. As I write this, I have at least six gaming devices within 10 feet of me and more hidden away upstairs. I use at least one or two of these consoles every day — and that's totally ignoring my favorite accessories. So here's just a handful of the gadgets I currently couldn't game without.
Currently, my personal fave accessory in my home setup is the wonderfully engineered ASUS ROG Raikiri II controller. You can buy the ASUS ROG Raikiri II at Amazon for $143.99 (was $189.99) — that's an epic bargain in my eyes.
When it comes to consoles, I'd definitely recommend the superb performance and graphical fidelity of the Xbox Series X Digital Edition, which you can currently get at Amazon for $574.99 (was $649.99).
The Nintendo Switch 2 is also well worth it, particularly before its price hike this September — and you can net yourself the Choose Your Game Bundle at Amazon for $499, which allows you to get it with a digital download of Mario Kart World, Donkey Kong Bananza, or Pokémon Pokopia into the bargain.
But while it's not purely a gaming device, my biggest tip this sale might be the fact you can grab the TCL QM8K 65-inch at Amazon for $997.99 (was $1,499.99). Given it's both seriously vibrant and crammed with great gaming features, that's a seriously good discount.
Based in the UK? Don't worry! I've dug up the best equivalent UK deals and prices I could find for all of these items below. And if you want the drop on other top price reductions out there, I've got a pro-tip for you — check out our Amazon Prime Day UK deals roundup for the hottest bargains.
Not gonna lie: I legit love my ASUS ROG Raikiri II. As you can see from my 4.5 star review, I'm a big fan of its TMR thumbsticks and triggers and its low-latency 2.4GHz wireless connectivity. My only criticism is how much it costs but, thanks to this ace deal, you can save yourself a huge $46.
With the Nintendo Switch 2's price rising in September, I'd heartily recommend you grab yours soon. And with this great bundle, you can get it with a digital copy of either Mario Kart World, Donkey Kong Bananza, or Pokémon Pokopia for at least $20 less than any of the equivalent physical game bundles.
Offering as great a performance as my mid-range gaming rig in a much smaller space, the Xbox Series X serves up stunning graphics and super smooth performance. And honestly, unless you're wedded to physical media, the Digital Edition is by far the best deal.
While the Xbox is a good console, to me, what makes it great is Xbox Game Pass. On the Ultimate tier, I've currently got access to over 400 games, all for far less than what I'd usually spend on games a month. While we're not yet seeing any discounts this Prime Day, this is a very decent price for a truly enormous amount of content.
Not only does my TCL QM8K (AKA the C8K in the UK) offer a vibrant, gorgeous picture, but I also love its gaming features like 4K at 144Hz, AMD FreeSync Premium Pro, ALLM and Dolby Vision gaming. While it fell to $897.99 last Black Friday, if you can't wait till November to upgrade your TV, this is still a total bargain.
What I love about the Beyerdynamic MMX 150 is how versatile it is, with sound presets letting you tailor the audio to different genres while its fantastically spatial sound is great for detecting enemies in shooters. With this $50 discount, I heartily recommend checking it out.
Star Wars: Galactic Racer will feature a combination of vehicle parts "in the trillions"
Creative Director Kieran Crimmins says the game has "unbelievable depth"
He adds, "There may not be an arcade racer with that much depth in it ever made"
Fuse Games has revealed that Star Wars: Galactic Racer has a combination of moving parts that is "in the trillions."
Speaking in an interview with TechRadar Gaming at Summer Game Fest (SGF), Fuse Games co-founder and CEO Matt Webster and Creative Director Kieran Crimmins shared how the studio designed a Star Wars racing game with a narrative that balanced what fans are already familiar with while also adding to the universe in a meaningful way.
Webster touched on the accessible planets where the races will take place, such as iconic planets like Tatooine, and others like Lantaana and Jakku, as well as the game's "runs-based" campaign structure and vehicle customization with over 300 parts.
That's a lot of options which will certainly offer a lot of player freedom, but according to Crimmins, the game at large goes beyond that. The creative director said that he spoke to one of the game's designers at SGF and asked how many combinations of moving parts there are in the game, and he was told, "It's in the trillions."
"I can't really calculate it at that point, because the amount of mechanical depth we've got in both the parts, the racer styles, the abilities, the upgrades, and then the different environmental effects that are on the planets, is an unbelievable depth."
"We've never had that much depth in a game we've made," he added. "I would argue there may not be an arcade racer with that much depth in it ever made. This might not be the biggest one possible, and that's something we really wanted to give back to the genre."
Coming back to how the team balanced the new and old of Star Wars, Crimmins explained that it wants people who are familiar with the franchise to have those "touch points," but it also looked at it from "more of a fantasy fulfillment point of view."
"It's like when we watch the movies, we watch the TV shows, or we play the games," he said. "What are the vehicle fantasies that are represented in this universe, which there are a lot of, and then, how do we get the right word, the right worlds, the right parts, the right vehicles? So that we can give as many of those different fantasies as possible."
One of those new vehicles is the skim speeder, which offers fast mobility and is something the Fuse Games knew needed to do a "knife-edge" turn in races.
"We made a vehicle that was able to do that and give, what I feel is a very authentic Star Wars experience, but it is a completely new vehicle, so something new to the Star Wars canon."
Fuse Games CEO Matt Webster confirms Star Wars: Galactic Racer has a runs-based structure in the campaign
Webster says "consequential decision-making" is built within the campaign
Creative Director Kieran Crimmins says that when the team prototyped the system, "it felt right" for Galactic Racer
Star Wars: Galactic Racer will feature a runs-based structure within the campaign, which Fuse Games has said will involve "consequential decision-making."
That's according to Fuse Games co-founder and CEO Matt Webster, who told TechRadar Gaming during an interview at Summer Game Fest 2026 (SGF) that while he and the team love arcade racing games, "you can't make one really in the same way as you did all those years ago," because game genres have adapted and evolved.
Webster said the team wanted to bring something fresh to Galactic Racer, and the runs-based structures, which "are built for replayability and racing thrives on replayability," and in other games, the "meta" is car collection. So instead, the team shook things up by bringing back "consequential decision making and consequence back into the experience."
Creative Director Kieran Crimmins added that "consequence" was the "key" for Galactic Racer, saying, "We want every decision to matter, every upgrade to matter, every vehicle to matter, every race to matter, and like the runs-based structure allows us to do that, like we've never done in an arcade racing before."
"Not only have you got to keep on top of the curve with your build and your skill and your track knowledge, but also you get to reset every time," Crimmins continued.
In other arcade racers, the developer explained, cars can be upgraded to max level, but then players will realize they haven't experienced 99% of the other systems. And while they can always be revisited, the runs-based structure "allows you to do that with consequence."
"It gives you a reason to try all those different builds, a reason to experiment, and also a reward if you get your synergies right, you get your build right, and you get your knowledge right," Crimmins said.
"Then that's what actually wins the game, so it was incredibly compelling to us to have a structure that not only changed the way that you play, but changed the way that you play that was advantageous for the feelings that you get in a racing game, and like anything, the way we made it is we prototyped it and it felt right.
"This is an innovation we think we can bring to the genre."
During the interview, Crimmins also revealed that the game will feature a combination of moving parts that are "in the trillions," across racer styles, the abilities, the upgrades, and then the different environmental effects that are on the planets.
"It's an unbelievable depth," the creative director said.
Despite being Insta360’s first vlogging camera with multiple Insta360 firsts, the Luna Ultra, overall, feels like a polished and bold product. Its triple chipset ably supports powerful features — especially the gimbal-stabilized 8K 30p video with 10-bit color depth and 4K 120p slow motion video recording, Log color profile, autonomous subject tracking autofocus and 32-bit float audio.
With dual 20mm f/1.8 and 60mm f/2.0 lenses, each with its own sensor, you truly are getting two cameras in one. And having enjoyed the Luna's ultra-wide and impressive 3x telephoto versatility for a month, it will be hard for me to go back to a single-lens compact vlogging camera.
The detachable remote module — which features the two-inch OLED touchscreen, main camera controls and built-in microphone — has, understandably, won many admirers. It's such a clever and well-implemented design feature that truly enhances the user experience, especially for solo vlogging.
Here the module has been removed. It has a 20m transmission range and when removed it functions just as if it's attached to the camera (Image credit: Future / Tim Coleman)
Initially I had a few minor niggles navigating various camera settings, and it certainly paid dividends to spend time customizing the Luna Ultra to the way I like to shoot. It's also notably bulkier than DJI's Pocket 4 vlogging cameras, and pricier than single-lens alternatives.
Despite its infancy in this space, Insta360 has to its credit already produced crucial supporting accessories — including tripod and battery grips, plus the Insta360 Mic Pro wireless mic for top quality audio — meaning you can stick within the Insta360 ecosystem and enjoying the best possible user experience and compatibility, including full Bluetooth support.
Yes, DJI has been in the compact vlogging camera space for much longer and has refined its Pocket series with every iteration, but the Luna Ultra enters with a bang and is an impressive alternative.
Two lenses in one device, with an additional zoom — an approach familiar to smartphone users (Image credit: Future / Tim Coleman)
Insta360 Luna Ultra: price and release date
Full release on June 12 2026
Available in black or white with prices starting at $769.99 / £649 / AU$1,229.99
Multiple bundles to choose from, including the Creator Bundle
The Titanium Gold version comes with a matching auto lens cap (Image credit: Future / Tim Coleman)
"We're not going to compete on price" is what Insta360's co-founder Max Richter told me at a pre-launch event for the Luna Ultra, the company's first vlogging camera and DJI Osmo Pocket series rival.
And the Luna Ultra is much pricier than previous Pocket cameras. However, those were single-lens models and, like DJI's most recent Pockets, the single-lens Pocket 4 and dual-lens Pocket 4P, the Luna comes in two varieties: the single-lens Pro and the dual-lens Ultra.
Prices for the Ultra start at $769.99 / £649 / AU$1,229.99. That’s a fair whack more than the latest single-lens models, but you are truly getting two cameras in one device.
Insta360 sent me the Creator Bundle to review, which includes multiple extras such as the Mic Pro transmitter and battery grip and costs $969.99 / £829 / AU$1,549.99. I expect the dual-lens Osmo Pocket 4P to cost less than the Luna Ultra, but it won't be available in the US because of the DJI ban.
Both Luna models are available in black or white versions, and in a further variety of bundles that cater for various use cases; Standard, Essential, Endurance, VLOG, POV and Creator.
Price score: 4/5
Insta360 Luna Ultra specs
Insta360 Luna Ultra Specs:
Type:
Compact video camera
Lenses
20mm f/1.8 and 60mm f/2.0
Sensors:
1-inch and 1/1.3-inch
Video:
8K up to 30p / 4K up to 120p / FHD up to 240p
Photo:
9MP JPEG & RAW / 37MP UltraPhoto mode / panorama
LCD:
2-inch OLED, detachable
Memory:
47GB internal, 1x micro SD (up to 1TB)
Battery
1,550mAh, rated up to 4 hours of 1080p
Dimensions
2.1×6.7×1.5in / 52.4×169.9×38.5mm
Weight:
8.2 oz / 233g (black) 8.3oz / 235g (white)
Insta360 Luna Ultra: design
First compact vlogging camera to land with dual lenses, ahead of the Pocket 4P
Similar design cues to the DJI Pocket series (but a little larger), with stick-like form factor and camera supported by a three-axis gimbal
Unique detachable controller which includes a two-inch OLED screen and built-in mic
The chunky protective caseFuture / Tim ColemanThe wind guard attached to camera's mic pickupsFuture / Tim ColemanThe dual-lenses tuck away vertically when the camera is turned off.Future / Tim ColemanOne way to power up the camera is rotating the screen, but there's also a power buttonFuture / Tim ColemanHorizontal video is available in 8K, 4K and 1080pFuture / Tim ColemanThe profile of the camera — the lowest part is pronounced to accommodate the detachable moduleFuture / Tim ColemanOn the right side is a micro SD card slot, behind a fiddly rubber coverFuture / Tim Coleman
The Luna Ultra’s form factor is familiar — it's a bit like the compact, stick-like design of DJI’s Pocket series. DJI isn’t happy about it, by the way; it has filed a lawsuit accusing Insta360 of patent violations (which Insta360 has responded to with a countersuit).
However, there are some key design differences. Lunas are slightly larger than Pocket models. Not majorly so, but the difference is clear when you hold them side by side as I did (albeit the dual-lens Ultra alongside the single-lens Pocket 4).
In practice, I didn’t really feel that the Luna’s extra weight and size negatively affected its handling — it’s easy in the hand for on-the-go vlogging. If you want the absolute smallest option, however, DJI is your best best. Even the dual-lens Pocket 4P is smaller.
There’s a good reason why the Luna cameras are bigger, and that’s for a super clever and unique feature: a detachable remote control, which is a module that packs the camera's main controls and rotatable two-inch OLED screen. Simply squeeze the red buttons on either side of the Luna, and the module pulls away from the body.
Future / Tim ColemanFuture / Tim ColemanFuture / Tim ColemanFuture / Tim Coleman
The module has a 20m transmission range and operates exactly the same way as if it’s on the camera, with the touch display offering a remote view, and the main camera controls on hand, including gimbal, zoom and record. Transmission range is impacted by the surroundings — I found the feed froze inside 15 meters when other people passed in front of me in a busy urban space — but I could see it happening on the screen in my hand and could rectify the situation.
What’s really neat is that the module has a built-in microphone, so you can easily check your frame and present to the camera. It’s certainly better than using the on-camera mic, though a wireless mic such as Insta360’s own Mic Pro with its customizable E Ink display is an even better pick for audiophiles. The camera has direct Bluetooth support for this mic and Insta360’s Mic Air. The video below gives an idea of what the module is like to use remotely.
I really appreciated how much easier it was to frame my shots with the controller module in hand. There’s also smart subject tracking and autofocus (more on this in the performance section), meaning the camera can track you as you move around, within the gimbal’s range, keeping you or your subject centered in the frame. Controlling the Luna using the module and tracking is like having your own cameraperson filming you, provided you can find a secure surface to rest the camera on or a support to fix it to.
On that note, the Luna Ultra can stand freely on flat surfaces, while the battery grip, which extends battery life plus the physical height of the camera, featurestiny flip-out tripod feet for extra stability.
The battery grip is larger than the regular tripod grip and extends the battery life of the camera, which was already impressive being rated at up to four hours of 1080p filming. Not bad for a 1,550mAh unit that can be recharged to 80% in just 23 minutes.
At first I had a few niggles with the handling of the Luna Ultra from how it comes straight from the box. Beyond finding it physically clunkier than the Pocket 4, I needed to change various settings to taste, such as its behavior when rotating the two-inch touchscreen.
Overall, however, I can't find much fault with the Luna Ultra's design, which is seriously impressive for a first generation product.
Design score: 4.5/5
Insta360 Luna Ultra: Performance
Triple chipset, with 4nm and AI chips ensures smooth operation
Smart subject tracking and autofocus, but it's not perfect
Can get a little warm when using the most powerful features
The Luna Ultra is equipped with a triple chipset, comprising powerful 4nm and AI chips. As such, I never really experienced any performance issues, even shooting a lot of 8K video (though never for more than 10 minutes at a time).
The camera does get a little warm when using power-hungry features such as 8K video, and I did see a lag when switching from the 12x zoom back to 1x using the stepped zoom control on the touchscreen. However, those were my only issues.
In addition to regular 8K video, the Luna Ultra has a range of shooting modes, including; Slow Motion up to 240fps (in Full HD), Timelapse, TimeShift and Barrel Roll. I've included some slow motion clips in a sample video below.
Both Luna cameras accept a micro SD card up to 1TB, and include 47GB internal storage — less than DJI’s Osmo Pocket 4 / 4P, which have more than double the capacity. I shot plenty of video clips and photos directly onto the internal memory, and still had plenty of space left over — the maximum 120Mbps bitrates of video files are fairly low and don't take up too much memory.
And there’s plenty more for audiophiles, namely a decent wind guard for the camera’s internal four-mic array, plus 32-bit float audio. This pro-level setting avoids clipping, and is ideal for unpredictable and noisy environments, but for simpler audio edits, the 24-bit setting is probably your best bet.
The quality of the detachable module's built-in mic impressed me, though for the clearest pickup it's pretty fussy about how close you hold it and the angle it's pointed in.
Subject tracking is impressively sticky, though I did find that it switches to a new subject a little more easily than the DJI Pocket 4. In one situation, I was walking with the camera tracking me when other people came between me and the camera and tracking stopped.
In another scenario as I held a product up to the camera for it to focus on, the camera focused back on my face in the background all too keenly when I came back into view. In such a scenario, I think DJI's tracking performs better.
Performance score: 4.5/5
Insta360 Luna Ultra: Image and video quality
Dual 20mm f/1.8 (1-inch sensor) and 60mm f/2.0 (1/1.3-inch sensor) cameras are effectively like having a decent zoom
8K 30p and 4K 120p video with color grading-friendly I-Log profile — a first for Insta360
9MP photos are decent enough, especially in RAW format, and can be upped to 37MP in UltraPhoto mode
(Image credit: Future / Tim Coleman)
The Luna Ultra ups the ante in this camera category with 8K video — double the resolution of the Osmo Pocket 4, which shoots in 4K. It’ll shoot 8K up to 30fps, complete with Dolby Vision (aka HDR) and I-Log color profile.
This is the first Insta360 camera with Log, a flat color profile that pros like to use to maximize the color grading potential and for the most dynamic range possible from their camera, which in this case is up to 14 stops.
DJI has billed the Pocket 4P as having 17 stops dynamic range with its new D-Log2 profile — I look forward to comparing the footage of both cameras to see which is better once I have my hands on the Pocket. 4P.
Insta360 thinks its night mode is superior to DJI, with its PureVideo mode boosting dynamic range in 4K 60p videos. That’s another comparison test I’m looking forward to conducting. From the shots I've taken at night in this mode, detail looks impressively sharp, though of course no match for the quality of daytime footage.
Insta360’s Leica partnership goes beyond the Luna’s Leica-branded lenses and into various Leica color profiles. If you like the simplicity of attractive color profiles with no need for color correction, then the Luna has some great alternatives to Log.
I was impressed with the 3x telephoto camera — provided the subject isn't too far away, it's possible to throw depth of field for punchy portraits. I'm talking upper body shots with notable shallow depth of field.
The zoom of that lens can be further extended with a 6x 'lossless' zoom, a term that suggests you shouldn't notice a drop in image quality — I certainly didn't. I can't say the same for the 12x digital zoom setting, which looks a little more pixelated on close inspection. Still, that 12x zoom is a handy addition should you really need to zoom closer.
Honestly, having enjoyed the variety of two lenses in such a small camera, and how impressive the quality of the telephoto camera is (the sensor is bigger than the main sensor in most smartphones), I know I'll struggle if I have to go back to a single-lens compact vlogging camera.
Video is, of course, the primary use for the Luna Ultra, but it shoots decent-quality 9MP photos too, in JPEG and RAW format, albeit with just eight-bit color depth. I've included a couple of scenarios below, taking JPEG and RAW (DNG format) photos simultaneously at night and in daylight, with the 1x and 3x lenses.
I haven't edited the RAWs so you can see the kind of processing that takes place for JPEGs. All the photos are 9MP, but there is also an UltraPhoto mode which quadruples resolution to 37MP.
Insta360 Luna Ultra photo gallery
An unedited RAW DNG file. Note the vignetting (dark corners) and muted colorsFuture / Tim ColemanThe standard color profile, JPEG format. This gives an idea of the kind of camera corrections that take place during JPEG processingFuture / Tim ColemanAnother example. Interestingly, the RAW files use a lower ISO value than JPEGs when shooting. in RAW+JPEG simultaneously. Future / Tim ColemanThe previous RAW image was ISO 180, this JPEG is ISO 360. All of the four dragon photo were taken with the 1x ultra-wide camera.Future / Tim ColemanAgain, a RAW file. There's more detail in this photo than the corresponding JPEG, and I haven't even played with exposure corrections or shadow / highlight recoveryFuture / Tim ColemanI tried the 'Fresh' color profile here, which is bright and airy. The intensity for any color profile can be adjustedFuture / Tim ColemanThe RAW DNG format again and, like the previous portraits, taken with the 3x telephoto camera.Future / Tim ColemanThe corresponding JPEG to the previous imageFuture / Tim Coleman
Image and video quality score: 5/5
Insta360 Luna Ultra: testing scorecard
Insta360 Luna Ultra
Attributes
Notes
Rating
Price
Considering you get two cameras in one, a detachable touchscreen module and high-end video features, the Luna Ultra is decent value, but it does cost a lot more than single-lens alternatives and DJI almost always costs less
4/5
Design
Slightly clunkier than the rival Osmo Pocket 4 / 4P, but the detachable control is well implemented and seriously useful
4.5/5
Performance
Triple chipset ably supports high-end features, subject tracking works well and gimbal performance is decent
4.5/5
Image and video quality
Twin camera versatility for different shots, sharp 8K footage, I Log and Leica color profiles. You'll struggle to find better image quality in this camera format, though I haven't directly compared footage with the Osmo Pocket 4P yet
5/5
Should I buy the Insta360 Luna Ultra?
Buy it if...
You want a versatile compact vlogging camera Dual lenses are a revelation for this camera format. You're no longer restricted to ultra-wide shots, but dynamic portraiture and b-roll details are entirely possible.
You're a solo vlogger The detachable remote with two-inch touchscreen, camera controls and built-in mic aid solo vlogging, in terms of the range of shots you can easily get, especially with subject tracking on board.
Don't buy it if...
You want the smallest possible vlogging camera The Luna Ultra is clunkier than the DJI Osmo Pocket 4 / 4P. Not hugely so, but DJI's cameras are even more pocketable.
You don't need two lenses For me, having used the Luna Ultra, it's now hard to go back to a single-lens compact vlogging camera, but if you don't need that second telephoto camera, the single-lens Pocket 4 / Luna Pro alternatives cost much less.
Insta360 Luna Ultra: also consider
DJI Osmo Pocket 4 / 4P
At the time of writing, I've only reviewed the single-lens DJI Osmo Pocket 4 which isn't a fair comparison especially with the dual-lens Pocket 4P on the horizon and the direct rival to the Luna Ultra. However, if you'd like to know how the cameras compare, check out my Luna Ultra vs Pocket 4 article.
If we're going on price, there beginner mirrorless cameras enter the picture, and for me the Fujifilm X-M5 is the best-equipped hybrid for the money. It has a bigger APS-C sensor, shoots 6K video recording (with Full HD vertical vlogging mode) and 26MP photos and it's a stunning camera. The drawback is that there's no in-body stabilization, so you'll probably want an additional gimbal to smooth out on-the-go clips.
Insta360 supplied me with the Luna Ultra Creator Bundle, which includes 2x grips, Mic Pro transmitter, soft carry case and more
I tested the camera regularly for a month shooting day and night, mainly focusing on video content. I've tried the monitor in various configurations
I was testing the DJI Osmo Pocket 4 simultaneously, and could draw comparisons
I had early access to the Luna Ultra Creator Bundle ahead of its launch, and tested the kit out over the following weeks before writing this review. During this review period, I also had the single-lens DJI Osmo Pocket 4, meaning I was able to make comparisons.
The camera shoots decent still photos with RAW format editing flexibility, but my main focus video performance. I've shot horizontal and vertical vlogging-style videos in the various resolutions and frame rates available in each format, and experimented with various color profiles.
I've made sure to try out all of the accessories supplied to me and the various configurations of the detachable monitor. I've checked the camera and detachable monitor's audio quality, and how easily and reliable it pairs with an Insta360 Mic Pro wireless mic.
If you're looking to get into the world of audiophile-grade sound, or want to upgrade your gear, then now could be the perfect time. And that's because Amazon Prime Day is finally upon us, and we've spotted a bunch of amazing deals on head-fi, with some mega bargains on IEMs, headphones, and music streamers.
I've got the rundown on some awesome offers from the likes of Astell & Kern, its affordable sub-brand, Activo, Meze, and Sennheiser, with big discounts, bundles, and more available.
As someone who's been testing audio gear for years, and has tested IEMs and headphones from all of these brands — including the featured Activo Volcano and Sennheiser IE 200 — I have to say that these deals are seriously tempting, even for me. So, whatever you do, don't miss out on some of this high-quality, yet low-priced audio gear!
For a long time, security teams have been dealing with the same problem: a constant stream of security alerts, but not enough context.
Missing details like user behavior, asset importance, or related activity, means there’s a heavy reliance on analysts to work out what actually matters.
This doesn’t just slow teams down; it puts real pressure on teams and limits how much they can realistically review or understand.
Agentic AI changes this dynamic.
Instead of looking at alerts in isolation, these systems can piece activity together, understand what’s happening in context, and in some cases take action on their own.
Often, issues are resolved before they ever need to be escalated. That removes a lot of the manual effort that’s shaped security operations for years.
But while a clear improvement, it doesn’t remove risk—it shifts it.
As systems improve, scrutiny declines
A useful comparison is aviation. As systems become more reliable, people naturally step back. Not because they’re careless, but because constantly double-checking something that’s almost always right starts to feel unnecessary. Over time, trust stops being something you actively think about and becomes something you assume.
The same thing is starting to happen in cybersecurity. As these systems prove themselves, teams spend less time questioning individual decisions. The environment feels calmer, and the lack of issues reinforces that sense of control. The real risk isn’t frequent failure, it’s that when something does go wrong, it’s less likely to be challenged.
Alert fatigue comes from having to pay attention to too much, too quickly. What follows is something different: a gradual drop in attention, where growing confidence in the system weakens the instinct to double-check.
A model built on two interdependent layers
The structure of security operations starts to shift as well. Instead of everything hinging on human decision-making, you end up with two connected layers. People set the intent – defining policy, access and boundaries – while agents interpret it and act on it, often much faster than any person could.
Both layers can be influenced. Traditional attacks aimed at people don’t go away, but there’s now another surface to think about: the data, prompts, and workflows that shape agent behavior. If those inputs are manipulated, the system can still produce actions that look valid, because they follow its internal logic.
At the same time, the distance between decision and execution increases. Human operators aren’t as involved in the moment an action happens, which makes it harder to spot when something isn’t quite right. In practice, each layer ends up relying on the other for validation.
When that assumption holds, the system works efficiently. When that works, everything runs smoothly. When it doesn’t, the gap between them can be hard to see in real time.
How risk scales in an agentic environment
Risk doesn’t just increase in this kind of environment, it spreads differently. Each agent has its own identity, permissions, and decision-making logic, and they’re often connected. Actions taken in one part of the system can trigger responses elsewhere, creating chains of automated behavior.
That means a single bad input or flawed decision doesn’t stay contained. It can move quickly across systems without anyone stepping in. The issue isn’t just speed, it’s how connected everything is. Small mistakes can have much bigger consequences because they’re carried through multiple layers of automation.
Why identity and access need to change
How agents are set up today adds another layer of risk. In many cases, they’re treated as extensions of the user, with the same credentials and access. It’s convenient, but it also widens the blast radius if something goes wrong.
A more resilient approach is to treat agents as their own entities. Give them distinct identities, limit what they can do to specific tasks, and make sure their actions can be tracked and reversed if needed, without affecting everything else.
It’s less about efficiency and more about putting the right foundations in place for systems that are increasingly acting on their own.
Maintaining control as reliance increases
One of the trickier aspects is that failure doesn’t always look like failure. Fewer alerts and faster resolutions can make it feel like risk has gone down, when in reality oversight may just be less active.
Staying in control comes down to how these systems are designed and used. High-impact actions still need some form of verification, even if most routine work doesn’t. It also matters that teams can see not just what an agent did, but how it arrived there—what inputs it used and how it interpreted them.
The ability to step in is just as important. If stopping or overriding an automated process is slow or awkward, it probably won’t happen in time when something goes wrong. That kind of intervention needs to be simple enough to use under pressure.
More broadly, the role of the security professional shifts. It’s not just about spotting obvious problems anymore, but recognizing when something that looks fine might still need a second look.
A quieter, more concentrated risk
Agentic AI will do a lot to reduce alert fatigue, which has weighed on security teams for years. The trade-off is that risk becomes less visible and more concentrated in the space between what people intend and what machines actually do.
In systems that work correctly most of the time, the real challenge isn’t constant failure. It’s what happens when something does go wrong and whether the usual signals that would catch it are still there.
This article was produced as part of TechRadar Pro Perspectives, our channel to feature the best and brightest minds in the technology industry today.
The views expressed here are those of the author and are not necessarily those of TechRadarPro or Future plc. If you are interested in contributing find out more here: https://www.techradar.com/pro/perspectives-how-to-submit
Under the Radar is our way of highlighting great games that might have passed you by. Through a regular mix of news stories and features, we'll cover everything from high-quality indie gems to AAA experiences or ports that were buried by busy release schedules.
The only requirement is that we think whatever we’re writing about is truly interesting and worthy of your attention, so buckle up because things might well get weird…
Portable power stations have become a must-have for business travel, camping and road trips, and anyone spending time away from a wall socket.
If you've been thinking about picking one up, Amazon Prime Day has delivered a great deal on the Jackery Explorer 240D for $119 (was $179). We enjoyed testing this power station, which is more portable than almost any other option out there - with a built-in braided cable that doubles as a handle. Really cool design here that we love.
Despite its compact size, the Explorer 240D packs a 256Wh battery, equivalent to 80,000mAh of capacity. That's enough power to keep smartphones, tablets, laptops, cameras, drones, and other portable devices running when you're away from a wall socket.
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Four charging ports are included, consisting of three USB-C connections and one USB-A port.
The unit can power up to four devices simultaneously, with up to 200W of total DC output and as much as 140W available from a single port.
Weighing just 4.85lbs, the Explorer 240D is substantially lighter and smaller than many portable power stations with similar capacity, making it easier to slip into a vehicle, backpack, or camping setup.
In his rave review, our expert Collin said "the Explorer 240D is ready for on-the-go adventures with a built-in cable that's more than just a cable." By that he means it "doubles as a handle."
In our roundup of the best portable power stations, we observed the product "is about as portable a power station as you're every going to get," noting that it should be thought of "as the middle-ground between a decent-sized power bank and a full-sized power station."
The power bank supports USB-C charging, solar charging, vehicle charging, and AC-DC dual input charging.
According to Jackery, the unit can reach 80% capacity in around one hour when using AC-DC dual input charging.
The LiFePO4 battery is rated for up to 6,000 charge cycles while retaining at least 70% of its original capacity, and Jackery says it can continue operating for up to a decade of regular use.
One particularly useful feature for travelers is support for high-power USB-C devices. The Explorer 240D can keep a Starlink Mini connected for up to 10 hours while also supporting laptops and other demanding gadgets.
Amazon Prime Day might have just begun today, but at $119, this is one of the best portable power deals I've spotted in a long time.
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Trump wants to have scientifically relevant quantum computers as soon as 2028
PQC migration pilot must have been completed by the end of 2027
Quantum promises to prevent attacks and aid discovery simultaneously
US President Donald Trump has signed two executive orders to push the US forward in quantum tech in a bid to prepare government systems against future cybersecurity risks.
The first EO is to establish a coordinated national effort to "develop the first ever quantum computer powerful enough to initiate the era of quantum-enabled scientific discovery and accelerate quantum capabilities for commercial applications."
The Departments of Energy, War, Commerce, and the Intelligence Community, industry and research leaders are all set to be involved as the country seeks to press on with its quantum plans.
Trump signs executive order to accelerate quantum computing plans
Among the benefits Trump envisions coming from future quantum computers are a number of spatial awareness improvements, including navigation through military environments, detecting submarines, underground structures and other hidden infrastructure, and improving battlefield awareness.
Trump's second EO focuses on the nationwide "nationwide migration to post-quantum cryptography," coordinated between the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) and the National Cyber Director.
The White House warned that quantum developments threaten the security of government networks, banks, healthcare, military systems and other critical infrastructure, ordering a pilot scheme to have been completed by the end of 2027. Some of the earliest migrations are set to have happened by 2030-2031, the administration added.
Quantum also promises some positive impacts spanning manufacturing, drug discovery, energy and agriculture, with the President seeing earlier investment in quantum giving the nation a competitive advantage.
But in as little as two years and before PQC rollout, the administration hopes to achieve scientifically relevant quantum computing, targeting 2028.
The increasingly popular AI assistant Claude has gone down for many today, with Anthropic confirming that it's "investigating" an issue.
The problems started at around 10.02am ET / 3.02pm BST, when a spike in reports appeared on Downdetector. At the time of writing, those reports are still climbing and have hit over 8.000 in the US.
The Claude Status page has confirmed a "elevated error rate" across models, but says "a fix is being implemented". Here's the latest news on Claude's issues today...
Lots of red is never a good sign
(Image credit: Anthropic)
This is the current situation on Anthropic's Status Page for Claude — there's good and bad news.
While there are indeed "elevated error rates" across "multiple models" on Claude, as I've also experienced, it seems the company has already got a fix in the pipeline.
Let's hope that means it gets resolved as quickly as the last outage we saw on June 2...
Problems across all models
(Image credit: Anthropic / Future)
Today's Claude issues aren't restricted to just one model unfortunately — we're seeing issues across all models, and on both paid and free accounts.
Right now, Claude is either "contemplating" its answers indefinitely or telling us "this model isn't available right now". According to Downdetector, the issue is also affecting both the chat interface and Claude Code.
Is the fix working?
(Image credit: Downdetector)
It's early days, but today's reported Claude issues have just taken a small dip on Downdetector — they're still high at over 6,000 in the US at the time of writing, but that's down from a high of 7,119 just over half an hour ago.
Hopefully, that's the work of Anthropic's engineers, with the latest post in Claude's Status page stating that "the issue has been identified and a fix is being implemented".
It still isn't working for me, but the signs are promising that it'll spring back into life soon...
This looks more worrying
(Image credit: Anthropic)
While reports of Claude issues on Downdetector have dropped slightly in the last half an hour, they're still very high — and Anthropic's status page (above) is showing a "major outage" across all of its platforms, except Claude for Government.
That means Claude's chat interface, Claude Code, Claude Cowork and its API are all having issues right now, which makes this is a pretty broad outage affecting many.
As the Claude issues continue for many, Reddit is responding the only way it knows how — with comforting memes.
The could be promising news on the horizon, though — Anthropic's latest post on the Claude Status page (at 10.53am ET / 3.53pm BST) says that "a fix has been implemented and we are monitoring the results".
That often means a swift improvement, but can also be a false dawn, so I'm keeping a close eye on my account in the hope that it'll be the former.
We're well over the hour mark
(Image credit: Downdetector)
Claude is still very much down for me and thousands of others — and it's now well over an hour since the problems started at around 10.53am ET / 2.53pm BST.
The latest from Anthropic's status page is still that "a fix has been implemented and we are monitoring the results'. So far that hasn't been reflected in the numbers, but in theory we should see an improvement pretty soon.
Bigger than the last outage
We don't have to look back too far for the last significant Claude outage — that was just three weeks ago on June 2. But this one is definitely bigger.
Those previous issues were related to its latest Opus 4.6 model, but this outage is across all models and all Claude platforms — except for those fortunate to be on Claude for Government.
I don't know about you, but this feels like a good opportunity to check out the latest Prime Day deals in the US and UK's best Prime Day deals, too. Forgive me the plug, but a cut-price Ninja Slushi is looking very tempting right now while I wait for Claude to reboot...
Claude is still struggling for many
(Image credit: Anthropic)
While the number of reported Claude issues on Downdetector is dropping — in the US, they're now at about the half the peak from an hour ago — thousands are still struggling to get it working, including many of us at TechRadar.
For me, there are some signs of life — rather than completely blanking my prompt or giving me a "this model isn't available right now" error message, Claude is now 'thinking' when I ask it something.
But that thinking time still ultimately goes nowhere, which suggests Anthropic's fix still isn't fully working — and the company indeed says that it's still "continuing to monitor for any further issues".
Claude is on the mend
(Image credit: Downdetector)
I'm starting to feel like one of the last people who still has Claude issues, as Downdetector is showing a significant drop in reported issues — and it's now back for many others here at TechRadar.
That fix that Anthropic pushed out almost exactly an hour ago is seemingly doing the trick. And just as a I type, Claude has sprung back into life for me, albeit with a slight delay in its responses. It looks like this one's almost over, folks...
When Joao Neves scored in just the sixth minute against DR Congo, there was a general expectation that Portugal would go on to make their opening World Cup 2026 game a thrashing. But that wasn't to be for six-time World Cup participant Cristiano Ronaldo's side, as they were held to an unexpected draw after appearing to ease off following the early lead despite enjoying 75% possession.
Portugal now face 54th-ranked World Cup debutants Uzbekistan at Houston Stadium, and anything less than three points will be a disappointment. Much of the spotlight will be on the 41-year-old CR7, who has come under intense scrutiny both online and from pundits after the opening game. He finished the match with just 25 touches and failed to register a single shot on target. In fact, his last World Cup goal came against Ghana in Portugal's opening match of the 2022 tournament.
But it's fair to say Ronaldo wasn't the only underwhelming aspect of Portugal's performance. Several fans even accused Bruno Fernandes of not passing the ball enough to Ronaldo. Wow! However, Roberto Martinez's men will have to block out the outside noise if they are to mount a serious challenge for the trophy.
Debutants Uzbekistan, on the other hand, are coming off a 3-1 defeat to Colombia after failing to register a single touch in the penalty area during the first half. Now up against A Seleção das Quinas, the White Wolves will rely on captain Eldor Shomurodov, Manchester City centre-back Abdukodir Khusanov, and 22-year-old Abbosbek Fayzullaev to put up a formidable fight.
On paper, Portugal have one of the best squads in the tournament, and should be more than a match for today's opponents. Fail to deliver again, however, and they face a very tricky final game against a decent Colombia side.
So, read on as we show you exactly how to watch Portugal vs Uzbekistan for free from anywhere in the FIFA World Cup 2026.
How to watch Portugal vs Uzbekistan for free
Portugal vs Uzbekistan is available to watch for free in multiple countries, including the UK, Australia, Brazil, Belgium, Ireland, Netherlands, Switzerland and Turkey.
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Use a VPN to watch Portugal vs Uzbekistan live streams
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How to watch Portugal vs Uzbekistan in the US
US viewers can watch Portugal vs Uzbekistan on Fox and Telemundo (Spanish comms).
Those looking for a streaming service instead can watch Portugal vs Uzbekistan on Fox One (3-day free trial). Telemundo is available via Peacock as well.
Visiting the US from the UK? You can still watch your World Cup stream for free thanks to Norton VPN (try for 60 days).
How to watch Portugal vs Uzbekistan in the UK
UK customers are in luck as they can stream Portugal vs Uzbekistan for free on ITV. Live coverage is on ITV1 and ITVX.
You require a TV Licence and a valid UK postcode for an account (e.g. SE1 7PB).
Norton VPN can unlock your stream if you're abroad today.
How to watch Portugal vs Uzbekistan in Australia
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Portugal vs Uzbekistan will be shown for free in Australia on SBS On Demand.
The streaming platform has every game of the tournament for free, making it the perfect place for your World Cup viewing.
Traveling for work or on holiday? A VPN like Norton VPN can help unlock your free stream.
How to watch Portugal vs Uzbekistan in Canada
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In Canada TSN will be broadcasting Portugal vs Uzbekistan.
You can live stream via the TSN+ streaming platform, which costs CA$8 per month or CA$80 per year.
Outside of Canada? Use Norton VPN whilst you're traveling away from home to unlock your stream.
Portugal vs Uzbekistan: Match Information
What time does Portugal vs Uzbekistan start?
Portugal vs Uzbekistan kicks-off at 6pm BST / 1pm ET on Tuesday, June 23. That's 3am AEST on Wednesday, June 24 in Australia.
What are the squads for Portugal vs Uzbekistan?
Portugal
Goalkeepers: Diogo Costa (Porto), Jose Sa (Wolves), Rui Silva (Sporting), Ricardo Velho (Genclerbirligi)
Midfielders: Ruben Neves (Al-Hilal), Samu Costa (Mallorca), Joao Neves (Paris St-Germain), Vitinha (Paris St-Germain), Bruno Fernandes (Manchester United), Bernardo Silva (Manchester City)
Forwards: Cristiano Ronaldo (Al-Nassr), Joao Felix (Al-Nassr), Francisco Trincao (Sporting), Francisco Conceicao (Juventus), Pedro Neto (Chelsea), Rafael Leao (AC Milan), Goncalo Guedes (Real Sociedad), Goncalo Ramos (Paris St-Germain)
Of course, most broadcasters have streaming services that you can access through mobile apps or via your phone's browser.
You can also stay up-to-date with all of the key World Cup moments on the official social media channels on X/Twitter (@FIFAWorldCup), Instagram (@FIFAWorldCup), TikTok (@FIFAWorldCup) and YouTube (@FIFA).
We test and review VPN services in the context of legal recreational uses. For example:1. Accessing a service from another country (subject to the terms and conditions of that service).2. Protecting your online security and strengthening your online privacy when abroad.We do not support or condone the illegal or malicious use of VPN services. Consuming pirated content that is paid-for is neither endorsed nor approved by Future Publishing.
Scream or Skip, that is the question. With so much horror out there to watch and play, our senior entertainment writer Lucy Buglass is here to help you decide what's worth your time.
Lucy is a long-time lover of the horror genre and has covered everything from the biggest new releases to hidden indie gems. Each month, she'll review a range of titles across cinema, television, and gaming, picking out titles that have caught her eye — for better or for worse. Feeling brave? Scroll on to see what frights await you.
There is a growing tendency to frame advances in artificial intelligence through the lens of breakthroughs: new models, new architectures, new capabilities.
Innovation is often measured by what is invented, and how quickly.
But in some domains, this framing misses the point entirely.
Financial crime is no longer a collection of isolated incidents, it has evolved into an organized, adaptive, and increasingly industrialized system.
Criminal networks operate across geographies, leverage automation, and continuously refine their methods: they test, iterate, and scale, just as any high-performing organisation would.
In such an environment, the question is not whether an AI system is innovative. It is whether it can operate at the same level of organisation, speed, and adaptability as the threats it is designed to counter.
When Innovation Meets Reality
Most AI breakthroughs do not survive contact with real-world systems.
In controlled environments, models perform well. Data is structured, assumptions hold, and evaluation metrics are stable. But reality introduces a different set of constraints: incomplete information, shifting behaviors, latency requirements, regulatory oversight, and adversarial actors actively attempting to exploit weaknesses.
Financial and state systems, in particular those related to fraud and risk, represent one of the most demanding environments for AI. Decisions must be made in milliseconds, errors carry direct financial and reputational consequences, and the underlying patterns are constantly evolving. Not randomly, but intentionally.
Fraud is not a static problem. It is an adaptive one.
This is where many innovations fail. Not because the underlying ideas are flawed, but because they are not designed to operate under sustained pressure or with the necessary agility to adapt.
The Complexity of the Problem
The industrialization of frauds changes the nature of the response required.
It is no longer sufficient to detect known patterns or react to past incidents. Systems must identify behaviors that have not been seen before, anticipate emerging tactics, and operate continuously across multiple channels and geographies.
This requires more than isolated innovation. It requires systems that can learn, adapt, and scale, not once, but continuously. And behind those systems, it requires something even more fundamental: a culture capable of producing and sustaining that level of performance over time.
The way of the patent
Innovation that exists only on paper has limited impact. Innovation that survives deployment, that continues to perform as conditions change, is what ultimately defines effectiveness. In financial crime prevention, the gap between these two is critical.
In recent years, the financial sector has significantly increased its investment in AI and machine learning, with a sharp rise in patent activity across the industry. From large banks to specialized technology providers, there is a growing recognition that intellectual property can capture and formalize advances in detection, decisioning, and risk management.
According to recent data, AI-related patent filing in the financial sector grew by over 250% in the past five years: from big banks to small startups working in the space, there is a clear interest in adding the value of patents to the business.
But patents, in this context, should not be understood as an end in themselves.
They are not simply indicators of inventive capacity. They are signals of something more structural: the ability to repeatedly transform ideas into capabilities that operate reliably in real-world systems.
Strong ideas
If you obtain one patent, it suggests a strong idea. If you obtain ten, it suggests a strong team. If you obtain one hundred, it suggests a strong culture.
A culture in which ideas are not only generated, but challenged, tested, refined, and integrated into systems that must function under real-world constraints.
This distinction becomes tangible when looking at what such innovation enables in practice.
It allows financial institutions to analyze behavior across extended time horizons in real time, not only evaluating a transaction in isolation, but understanding how it relates to patterns built over weeks or months. It enables a shift from static rule-based detection to continuous behavioral modelling, improving both the precision of anomaly detection and the speed of response.
In environments where decisions must be made in milliseconds, these capabilities are not incremental improvements. They determine whether institutions can intervene while fraudulent activity is unfolding, rather than reacting after the fact.
Some of these approaches are already being deployed at scale within large financial institutions, enabling significantly faster decision execution and more robust behavioral insight across complex transaction environments.
From this perspective, patents are not about invention alone. They are about building the conditions under which innovation can endure and translate into systems that perform under pressure.
From Invention to System Performance
For an idea to matter in this context, it must pass through several layers of validation. It must be new. It must not be obvious. And it must be useful, not in theory, but in the systems that institutions rely on every day. This last dimension is often overlooked.
Usefulness, in a real-world financial system, means the ability to operate reliably at scale, under constraints, and in the presence of adversarial behavior. It means integrating into complex infrastructures, supporting decision-making in real time, and remaining robust as both legitimate usage and criminal tactics evolve.
In other words, innovation is not defined by invention. It is defined by sustained system performance.
Matching the Scale of the Threat
The industrialisation of financial crime introduces a structural asymmetry. On one side, highly organised networks operate with speed, coordination, and adaptability.
On the other hand, defensive systems have historically been fragmented, reactive, and constrained by legacy architectures. Closing this gap is not a matter of incremental improvement. It requires a shift in how systems are designed, built, and evolved.
The level of innovation required is defined by the level of organisation of the threat.
And as that threat continues to industrialize, the systems designed to counter it must do the same.
Beyond Breakthroughs
This does not diminish the importance of research. On the contrary, it reinforces it. Breakthroughs are necessary, but they are not sufficient.
What ultimately matters is the ability to translate those breakthroughs into systems that function reliably in the real world, systems that can operate continuously, adapt dynamically, and maintain performance under pressure.
In financial crime prevention, this is not an abstract challenge. It is an operational reality. And it is one that will define the effectiveness of institutions, the resilience of financial systems, and, ultimately, the level of trust those systems can sustain.
This article was produced as part of TechRadar Pro Perspectives, our channel to feature the best and brightest minds in the technology industry today.
The views expressed here are those of the author and are not necessarily those of TechRadarPro or Future plc. If you are interested in contributing find out more here: https://www.techradar.com/pro/perspectives-how-to-submit
Meta paused its internal Model Capability Initiative (MCI) after an employee flagged exposure of sensitive data from mouse movement and activity tracking
Program allegedly collected prompts, private conversations, performance data, and even tax/medical info in unencrypted form
Meta says no improper access confirmed but is investigating; some employees still see the program running during the pause
Meta is pausing an employee-tracking program after one of the employees flagged it as exposing sensitive data.
The company behind Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp, was apparently running an internal program that was tracking employee mouse movements and digital activity. Called Model Capability Initiative (MCI), this program allegedly started in April with the goal of training Meta’s AI models through employee behavior recordings.
According to a memo released on launch, the purpose of the program was to improve the company’s AI models in areas where they struggled to replicate how humans interacted with computers, such as picking from a dropdown menu, or using different keyboard shortcuts.
Personal tax and medical information exposed?
"This is where all Meta employees can help our models get better simply by doing their daily work," the memo said at the time.
Reuters reported that an employee filed a high-priority security incident report (SEV) over the program’s exposure of employee data, including "full prompts and transcriptions, private conversations, people & performance data, DSS sensitivity ratings (1-4)." The same publication also said the program was collecting “more information than initially described” and stored it in unencrypted form.
"I have accessed both personal tax and medical information through my work computer, as have many thousands of employees,” the employee allegedly said. “We were told this data would be protected and only used for valid business purposes after aggressive filtering."
Now, Meta confirmed pausing the program to investigate these claims.
"We have carefully designed this program with privacy safeguards and while we have no indication at this time that any data was improperly accessed by Meta employees, we're pausing it while we investigate," company spokesperson Tracy Clayton was cited saying. The company did not say for how long the program will be paused but stressed that it would take time to stop it for everyone, so some employees might still see it running.
As of Monday afternoon, the program was still running for some people, Reuters confirmed.
There's no denying that the Samsung 990 Pro is an exquisite internal SSD - we loved it so much we awarded it the full 5 stars in our review, and found it offered some of the fastest read/write performance of any PCIe 4.0 SSD we tested.
There aren't many SSDs that manage to score full marks across the board during our testing, but the 990 Pro achieved just that.
Our review called it "an absolutely stellar M.2 SSD for both professional users and gamers," and still maintain that if you're building a new PC (or upgrading your old one), this SSD should be at the top of your wishlist.
It's capable of hitting up to 7450 MB/s read speeds and write speeds up to 6900 MB/s, making it a top choice for content creation, gaming, and complex workloads. With a $270 discount, it's an unmissable deal.
Today's best Prime Day Samsung SSD deal
The Samsung 990 Pro SSD is still one of the best PCIe 4.0 SSD around - especially at an unbeatable price like this. In our review, we hailed it as "an absolutely stellar M.2 SSD for both professional users and gamers." View Deal
There aren't many internal SSDs that get top marks in our testing, but the Samsung 990 Pro is one of them. We praised this high-performance solid-state drive in our review, where it proved to save large files quickly.
In fact, we said at the time: "This is easily one of the fastest SSDs we've ever tested, so you can expect top-tier file operation performance."
It's especially ideal for creative professionals and gamers, loading files fast and coming close to maxing out its PCIe 4.0 channels,
Ultimately, this runs like a premium SSD and we still think it's worth every penny - especially at this discount price.
The 1TB and 4TB models are also discounted in the sale. But honestly, it's cheaper to buy two 2TB SSDs than the 4TB one - and if you bought two 1TB versions, it'd cost you $110 more than the single 2TB SSD. That's where you get the best bang for your buck.
Also consider: More 2TB SSD deals
The SN850X is a perennial favorite - it's one of the fastest and most reliable internal SSDs around, with read speeds reaching up to 7300MB/s. A very good alternative to the Samsung 990 Pro if you want to save some dough.View Deal
The 9100 Pro boasts a PCIe 5.0 interface, and is billed as being the best for AI, heavy workloads, and gaming. With read speeds up to 14,700MB/s, this is one for the workstation. In our review, we said, "Samsung's first true PCIe 5.0 drive is the best there is." It also comes with a free NordVPN Basic product key. View Deal
This internal SSD with a PCIe Gen 4 x4 NVMe interface is built for laptops and desktop PCs. It features read speeds up to 7100MB/s and write speeds of 6700MB/s. View Deal
I love board games. Be it a classic hit like Catan, a hilarious party game like Poetry for Neanderthals, or a 1v1 strategy game like Lord of the Rings: Duel for Middle-Earth — or anything in-between — I’m excited to give it a whirl.
And for Prime Day, Amazon has made many of my favorites super cheap. So I’ve gathered up a collection of my favorites you won’t want to miss — especially as several are part of limited time Lightning Deals, so once they’re gone, they’re gone.
If you want a more classic board game vibe, but something still accessible (read: no more difficult than Monopoly, and a lot more fun) then can I suggest Ticket to Ride or Catan? They're icons of the board game world for a reason.
Carcassonne and Splendor are solid pickups too in that category, and I've found are a little bit more approachable for non-gamers. There's not as many options to disrupt your opponents massively making the competitiveness less sharp.
For larger groups and parties Poetry for Neanderthals, Codenames, and Herd Mentality are perfect. Play them sober, play them tipsy, play them as a drinking game (remember: drink responsibly), whichever you choose will be a blast.
Despite their largely unchanged looks since the 2020 original, Apple's March 2026 cans are thoroughly deserving of the AirPods Max 2 moniker. Why? Quick answer: the new H2 chip and its computational wizardry. Slightly longer answer: the punchier sound, even better ANC and the new perks (Live Translation, Adaptive Audio, Conversation Awareness, Head Gesture control and the Camera Remote feature, for starters) all of which work seamlessly. Provided you've got a recent iPhone — an iPhone 15 Pro or newer — these extra Apple Intelligence features really make for an excellent, fuss-free music and call-handling experience that does what you want and does it with minimal button pushing.
Pros
Even better ANC
Live Translation that's easier to use than on Apple's buds
Adaptive Audio for meatier, punchier sound
Head-tracked Spatial Audio feels more accurate and crisp
Cons
Poor battery life, comparatively
Flimsy case remains
Still very iOS-only
No wireless hi-res codec support still
Bowers & Wilkins Px8 S2
The Bowers & Wilkins Px8 S2 are a formidable and sonically delightful pair of over-ear noise-cancelling headphones. They combine the best design elements of the original Px8 (and indeed the slightly older Px7 S3), while levelling up the sonic capabilities even more — and honestly, there's a hard-to-quantify pride of ownership one feels when wearing them. With a slightly lighter build than the inaugural set (yes, despite the extra metallic design accents and flourishes), decent ANC, hi-res Bluetooth codec support, the addition of a (somewhat divisive) 'True Immersion' profile and an excellent companion app, there’s so much to love about these headphones. That is, provided you can afford them…
Pros
Open, detailed and vaultingly dynamic sound
Great standard of build and finish
Very good control options and hi-res codec support
Cons
Can be bettered for noise-cancellation and 'immersive' profiles
Nappa leather won't please vegans
Priced according to their talent – ie. really quite high
You're here to see which flagship noise-cancelling headphones are best, and I get it. One way to deduce which is the better buy might traditionally be newness, right? Not so easy here. One set of headphones here has a September 2025 release, one boasts a newer March 2026 launch date — but that's far from the whole story.
You see, on looks alone, the AirPods Max 2 could be a 2020 release, despite actually being the newer set of cans. Why? Oh, because the build looks exactly the same as the first-generation set, despite hiding newer H2 chips under the hood and upgraded amplification. Meanwhile, the B&W Px8 S2 has all the physical trappings of a generational upgrade as well as the sonic upticks to back it up.
When whittling down the best noise cancelling headphones of 2026 (or just the best over-ear headphones you can buy today) it will come as no surprise to learn that both of the products — and indeed manufacturers — in the title of this versus are in the picture for the win. Both firms are, make no mistake, excellent at what they do. And although one gained a five-star review and one a half-star off that, there's very little in it.
The Bowers & Wilkins Px8 S2 launched on September 24, 2026, whereas the Apple AirPods Max 2 landed on March 16, 2026. But weirdly, the newer set are seeing a huge $150 Prime Day discount if you live in the US. Hurrah!
What a deal! These are the new new March 2026 edition, with the H2 chip and all of the upticks in performance that brings. And though many might have predicted an Apple-style $50 saving (yawn), this $150-off steal is crazy! Nobody had this on their bingo card for Prime Day. OK, the deal is only on the 'Starlight' finish, but for this money that shouldn't be an issue — it's a perfectly lovely finish. Let me be abundantly clear: the noise cancellation here is absolutely fantastic — and I know, because I reviewed them… View Deal
I tested them both, so I'm well placed to put these sets of high-end, flagship wireless cans side-by-side (someone's got to, right?) to discover which pair will ultimately get you better sound-per-pound value.
It's actually not as easy as it sounds. Human beings all seem to prioritize different things — your other half wants to watch movies on their iPad; your colleague is an avid gamer; you just want glorious silence to be able to get some shut-eye on long-haul flights.
I've spent countless hours listening to some of my favorite albums, podcasts and movies on these headphones in order to compare features, noise cancellation, call-handling, extra perks, and elements of the design and build quality (both physical and in terms of software) that you ought to be aware of. Either set of headphones is a top buy, our reviews will state as much — that's not why you're here. You want make the best choice for you, between these two top dogs. So let's get to it!
Apple AirPods Max 2 vs Bowers & Wilkins Px8 S2: price & availability
As mentioned above, the Bowers & Wilkins Px8 S2 are the older of the two in a 'tale of the tape' style side-by-side, but only by six months. The B&W cans arrived in September of last year (2025) while the AirPods Max 2 arrived in March 2026. That said, on looks alone you'd never be able to tell that the Max 2 are newer, because their actual design (read: looks, save for one or two new finishes) hasn't changed since the original 2020-issue set. And that is a fact which left some fans disappointed…
And they're like heavyweight boxers in terms of desirability as well as talent and fame: the B&W option will set you back a not-insignificant $799 / £629 (approx. AU$1,299) while the AirPods Max 2 cost $549 / £499 / AU$999.
You don't need me to tell you that the AirPods Max 2 are the cheaper of the two here (and isn't that an unusual position for Apple to find itself in?), but you also don't need me to tell you that we really do have to go much deeper into the features, comfort, sound quality, ANC efficacy and overall user experience to see where the real value is. So come on then!
(Image credit: Future)
Apple AirPods Max 2 vs Bowers & Wilkins Px8 S2: specs
Apple AirPods Max 2
Bowers & Wilkins Px8 S2
Price
$549 / £499 AU$999
$799 / £629 / AU$1,299
Drivers
Apple-designed dynamic driver with new 'custom high dynamic range amplifier'
2 x 40mm dynamic full-range carbon cone
Active noise cancellation
Yes
Yes
Battery life
Up to 20 hours (with ANC enabled)
5 mins of charging nets 1.5 hours of listening
30 hours (ANC on)
Weight
386.2g
310g
Connectivity
Bluetooth 5.3 (H2 chip) Lossless with USB-C
5.3 with SBC, AAC, aptX Adaptive and aptX Lossless compatibility, USB-C audio
Waterproofing
None
None
Bowers & Wilkins Px8 S2 vs Bose QuietComfort Ultra (2nd Gen): features
Apple's cans are newer, so let's kick off with them. The inclusion of newer H2 chips — yes, there's actually one in each ear cup — add a swathe of new features, with one big caveat: you need an Apple iPhone that's either the iPhone 15 Pro or newer to get at most of them.
Provided your source device is one of those though, new features abound, including Adaptive Audio (the Transparency mode can adjust itself to block some unnecessary sounds, and there's an optional slider to tweak just how 'adaptive' you want it to get), Conversation Awareness (so the over-ears can automatically lower the volume of your music and filter external sounds should you start talking to someone, then put everything back again once you stop chatting), plus Loud Sound Reduction and Personalized Volume to help protect your hearing but keep the sonic profile how you like it.
There's also Live Translation, which is for me the star of that Apple-Intelligence-and-iPhone ecosystem. I thoroughly enjoyed using it here over Apple's AirPods Pro 3, because it's so much easier to access via a long press of AirPods Max's on-ear Listening Mode button.
Elsewhere, Head Gesture support means you can nod to accept a call or check a message, shake your head to dismiss a message or decline a call, or nod to Siri silently. You don't have to perform these actions violently either. Also, the new Camera Remote feature means you can now take snaps on your iPhone camera using AirPods Max 2's Digital Crown, and despite not being much of a photographer, I used that more than I thought I would.
Apple's new Voice Isolation software also improves your call quality when it's loud or windy around you — and thanks to some extra processing power afforded by that H2 chip, you get much better voice capture from the headphones' threemics for voice pickup (two are shared with the ANC system, and one is an additional dedicated microphone) in the nine-mic total. If it's a fight over which set of cans takes calls better, I'd hand it to Apple.
Of course I left the best for last: Apple says that the active noise cancellation is "up to 1.5x more effective than the previous generation" and when Tim Cook's behemoth boasts, it's best to listen. The noise-nixing here is honestly next-level — and I mean near-silent, cocooning, calming and enveloping. It's like stillness as a backdrop to your music. If that's what you need, these headphones win over the B&W buy, hands down.
Switching to the competing set in this particular bout, as we said in our Px8 S2 review, "When it comes to active noise-cancellation, Bowers & Wilkins must — just like every other brand — accept it’s competing for second place". And in this particular battle against AirPods Max 2, B&W hasn't won. The ANC is good, don't get me wrong, but it's not as good as Apple's.
(Image credit: Future)
Now, let's focus on the B&W option. Ever noticed how elite audiophile-adjacent headphones tend not to be, er… overburdened by features? B&W hasn't changed the game here. That said, ‘elite’ is still great way to describe the Px8 S2 and while the feature-set here is 100% business, there is one relatively recent addition, in the form of a dedicated "True Immersion" spatial audio mode. It was listed as "coming following a software update" when the Px8 S2 launched, and it's here now. It's designed to widen the soundstage, but instead of of relying on traditional 3D head-tracking, the feature is meant to create a concert or club-like soundstage akin to attending live gigs.
Bowers & Wilkins has designed and implemented built-in digital processing to expand the spatial footprint of standard stereo tracks but, as you'd expect when your fanbase largely consists of audiophiles, user feedback is highly mixed. Yes, these immersive side-sauces can sound unnatural or over-processed, but for me that's not an issue with the Px8 S2. I find the bass response decent and that 'concert atmosphere' idea has largely been achieved, but then again, this isn't B&W's forte. These are headphones one buys for a wire-free experience during critical listening, and so I think you'll keep it switched off most of the time.
The Px8 S2 are compatible with SBC, AAC, aptX Adaptive and aptX Lossless codecs — and you won't find any aptX support in Apple's cans. That said, I prefer Apple's head-tracked Spatial Audio when it comes to immersive soundstages.
Wired listening can happen using the USB-C slot on one ear cup with either option — but while B&W supplies USB-C to USB-C, and USB-C to 3.5mm cables in the lovely semi-hard travel case, Apple only offers the former (and only gives you a minimal 'headphone bra' to carry the cans in, so be careful not to lose the cable!)
Battery life is one bone of contention: 30 hours in the B&W with ANC deployed, and a 15-minute jolt of juice will get you up to another seven hours' playback. That drops to just 20 hours max (with ANC enabled) with the AirPods Max 2, where 5 minutes of charging nets 1.5 hours of listening. In 2026, this can easily be beaten and is one area Apple really does need to improve. That said, for the aforementioned features — and that excellent ANC performance — Apple edges it here.
(Image credit: Future)
Oh, one other thing: the companion apps. Bowers & Wilkins' solution is far better here especially if you don't own an iPhone, offering to round up your music streaming services as well as catering to the cans and providing a thoroughly comprehensive, intuitive experience. In direct comparison, Apple's solution (that fits into your iPhone's pull-down general and settings menus; there is no official AirPods app for Android) feels a tad bare-bones, but then again, it is intuitive — once you've downloaded those language modules you'll need for translation…
Features winner: Apple AirPods Max 2
(Image credit: Future)
Apple AirPods Max 2 vs Bowers & Wilkins Px8 S2: sound quality
Ready for the indicator to swing back the other way, if only ever-so-slightly? You're probably way ahead of me, but Bowers & Wilkins makes some of the best-sounding wireless headphones within the mass production consumer space, and the Px8 S2 are no exception.
The company deployed the amplification and DSP engine from its (also very good) Px7 S3 headphones here, but the bespoke tuning — plus a stiffer and more pricey driver chassis and upgraded motor system and voice coil — has ensured that the Px8 S2 do sound significantly better than their well-regarded (and, ahem, more affordable) siblings. Our review explains this succinctly: "Where out-and-out sound quality is concerned, it’s hard to lay a glove on the Bowers & Wilkins Px8 S2… where they really excel, they leave their nominal competition gasping."
(Image credit: Future)
How do the Apple AirPods Max 2 compare for sound? It depends on how you like to listen — because while there's no higher-resolution codec support, for oomph and head-tracked audio within Apple Music suite, I still find them hard to beat. But for critical, neutral, integrated listening? They're still playing second fiddle to Bowers & Wilkins.
Apple hasn't divulged the drivers under the hood, but did specify a new 'custom high dynamic range amplifier' which I truly believe has made for a punchier and more dynamically nuanced listen than in the first-generation set — yes, probably owing to the new H2 chips.
The head-tracked Spatial Audio support is not a new feature with this iteration, but it is so beautifully implemented here thanks to the new software that, as I said in my review, "you'll find yourself whipping them off to check there's no mini speaker under your chin or squirreled away at the back of the room".
It's a closer-run thing than I'd expected — and again, it depends on your source material and whether you want a more three-dimensional presentation — but I can't hand the sound accolade to any product other than the B&W Px8 S2.
Sound quality winner: Bowers & Wilkins Px8 S2
(Image credit: Future)
Apple AirPods Max 2 vs Bowers & Wilkins Px8 S2: design
Honestly, the sense of pride in ownership I feel wearing the Bowers & Wilkins Px8 S2 over my ears (or even around my neck, with the metallic accents catching the light) remains unmatched. Wearing them is like being a member of a very select group — the audiophile who knows where the best sound is and wasn't scared of spending the cash.
You've got to give B&W the nod where looks are concerned. Over-ear headphones can look pretty generic, but somehow the Px8 S2 feel like an Aston Martin: luxurious yet demure, elite yet understated. They're available in 'Onyx Black', 'Warm Stone', 'Pearl Blue', Midnight Blue' and a special 'McLaren Edition' finish; all are quite splendid.
The arms and headband feature a recess that allows a portion of the cable to be exposed (a nod to the company’s very first headphones, the P5, which launched back in 2010) and at 310g, the Px8 S2 are actually just a fraction lighter and slimmer than the headphones they replace. Honestly, I can't find anything to pick fault with — except that the real leather won't appeal to vegans.
(Image credit: Future)
Do I get that same true pride in ownership with Apple's newest cans? Not quite, in all honesty — but that doesn't mean it's a clear win for the B&W in this instance. How to score this category then? If you like dashing good looks, it's got to be the B&W, but if you want supreme comfort and a design that helps promote a truly cocooned feel — with lovely on-ear controls — it's Apple, for me.
They're heavier than the Px8 S2, at 386.2g, but they don't feel it. Because here's the thing with AirPods Max 2: nothing about the design has been changed, because it doesn't need to be. The huge ear cups, the meshy headband with its silent yokes, the mic placement? It was all so-designed because Apple threw out the rule book and just wanted to make the best ever headphones. So while we can argue the toss over how they look, I maintain that for comfort, they knock everything else out the park.
I also love the Digital Crown, which can handle playback and volume. OK, the case is odd and Apple hasn't offered a proper one, which many users are crying out for. But I still reach for the AirPods Max 2 most days for the way they feel and the quiet, seemingly protected sonic spaces they take me to after a long day. So I can't simply give the B&W the nod, you see…
Design winner: it's a tie
(Image credit: Future)
Apple AirPods Max 2 vs Bowers & Wilkins Px8 S2: value
But that's not really what 'value' means, is it — especially when we're talking sound-per-pound value? And the price of each option does vary here, by over $200 / £120. It's a horses for courses thing. For me, the Bowers & Wilkins Px8 S2 sound so very good that they're worth the extra outlay over the other products mentioned above — but I prioritize sound quality when listening to music and always have done. Additionally, I have several music streaming services at my disposal (all the better to test things with, my dear) and the Bowers & Wilkins 'Music' app gets them all together so I can quickly stream whatever I need.
That said, those who own an iPhone and want the best ANC-plus-comfort they can possibly find at this level need to look to Apple — and the extra features (Live Translation, Gesture Control, Personalised Spatial Audio, Conversation Awareness) all add value, if you're iOS-ensconced. If I were jumping on a flight now, I'd pick the Apple over-ears. If I were in my comfy listening chair at home, it's the B&W. But it's hard to put a price on arriving from the 2am flight having actually slept because your cans are that good at noise-nixing, right?
(Image credit: Future / Simon Lucas)
Apple AirPods Max 2 vs Bowers & Wilkins Px8 S2: verdict
It's tough, but I promised I'd give my verdict, so for me it's the Apple AirPods Max 2 by a very small margin. I love the excellent ANC; I love the head-tracked Spatial Audio; I love the comfort; I love the call-handling and I love the bubble of silence I seem to enter when wearing them. Also, I love a tasty discount, and we're seeing a very good one, not long after their launch…
But there's a very compelling argument to be made for spending more and getting more detailed audio in a stunning (newer) build quality — and let's not forget that the Bowers & Wilkins Px8 S2 won our most recent Headphones of the Year Editor's Choice Award. So this isn't the end of the discussion — far from it in fact.
What are your thoughts, gentle reader? Which of the two is your winner? Let me know in the comments — let's make this a friendly group discussion.
With some schools and nurseries across the UK closing due to the heatwave, you might be on the hunt for some cheap Amazon Prime Day deals for keeping the kids cool and entertained — and if that's you, I've got you covered.
The team here at TechRadar have already been busy rounding up all the best tech deals, which I've included a selection of below for LEGO, kitchen appliances, gaming, streaming and fans. I've also had a browse around Amazon for some cheap finds that will make a real difference over the next few days. Most of these are aimed squarely at the kids, but if you've got a dog who's suffering in the heat, a couple of these picks will go down just as well with them.
I grew up in Australia so you can trust me when I say my recommendations will make a difference. Believe me, a pack of Ice Lolly Moulds at Amazon for £6.45 (was £9.99) will be the best tenner you spend all week — even if it's the only thing you buy.
Today's best deals to keep cool for under £30
Forget running under your neighbours' sprinklers, this splash pad will make you the envy of the street. It's one of the cheapest I can find discounted for Prime Day and comes in various sizes. Disclaimer: I accept no liability for pets who suddenly forget whose splash pad it is. View Deal
Got kids running around the house, and four-legged friends too? This foldable paddling pool is going to be a hit with both. There's no pump needed either, just lay it outside, turn on the hose, and everyone's happy, especially you with this 25% saving. View Deal
I've collected a few tricks to survive the heat since growing up in Australia, and ice lolly moulds are one of my favourite. Easy to make and refreshing to eat, these moulds are ideal for the summer. You can experiment with countless ice lolly recipes too, but my top tip is to make some with actual fruit chunks for a twist. There are plenty of options discounted on Amazon right now, but this 35% off saving is the cheapest I've found. View Deal
Today's best Lego deals
Who doesn't love Moana? LEGO's Kakamora barge is on sale for Prime Day and comes with a catapult, zipline, and playable drum, plus it can be split into three separate vessels. The set also comes with a Moana and Maui boat and figures, making it a perfect distraction from the heat. View Deal
This World Cup-inspired set looks cool enough from the outside, but inside is where the fun really starts — crack the football open to find a full, miniaturised stadium inside. Just don't let the kids try and start an actual game with it... View Deal
This fun Super Mario Lego set has a removable top, which can 'fly' around independently and even shoot fireballs at intruders. There's a Prince Florian trapped in a cell inside, ready to be rescued. Amazon has knocked 24% off the list price for Prime members. View Deal
Today's best streaming deals
Apple TV (Prime Video add-on):was £19.98 for two months now £11.98 at Amazon Right now you can get a cheap Apple TV subscription as a Prime Video add-on, which is perfect timing if you need something new for the kids to watch. This rare saving represents more than 40% on the usual monthly price of £9.99, but you'll have to be quick because the deal ends on 2 July. View Deal
Paramount+ (Prime Video add-on): was£7.99 for a month now £2.99 at Amazon This Paramount+ deal is worth considering for those of us in the UK, especially if you've not been signed up for a while, and need some new kids and family content to browse. Just note that the reduced price only lasts for a month, and that it expires on 25 June. View Deal
MGM+ (Prime Video add-on): was £11.98 for two months now £5.98 at Amazon MGM+ is one of the more readily available streaming services to choose from when it comes to sales, as it's often discounted throughout the year. While this offer isn't a rock bottom price, that doesn't mean it's not worth picking up. A saving is a saving after all, and MGM+ does have a selection of family movies that the kids are sure to enjoy (just make sure to turn on those parental controls). View Deal
Today's best gaming deals
The Nex Playground is a cheap gaming console that comes pre-loaded with a selection of games geared towards younger players. It's the perfect choice if you're shopping for those aged five to ten, who might need some distracting from the heat. View Deal
The Nintendo Switch 2 is discounted right now in the UK, though it still costs more than the Playground. It's certainly worth it if you can spare the extra money though, as it is more powerful and offers a more traditional gaming console experience with a wider variety of games. View Deal
Don't want your kids in front of a screen for too long? Don't miss out on this fantastic deal for the Catan (6th Edition) boardgame. It is currently available at Amazon for a highly competitive price that you won't ever regret forking out for. This offers lifelong family entertainment that won't ever falter. View Deal
Today's best fan deals
This small yet powerful desk fan is a great buy while it's dropped below £30 for Prime Day. While its smaller size means it won't be the most powerful option out there, it does mean it'll easily fit on a side table or your desk and keep you at a comfortable temperature.View Deal
Loved by Amazon customers far and wide, Levoit extends its air care products from the best air purifiers to fans, and this one in particular earned praise for its low noise level and good cooling capacity. This smart fan offers 12 fan speeds, four modes, can be controlled with the VeSync app or voice control.View Deal
Dyson's first handheld fan sold out almost instantly last month, so if you're tired of feeling sticky and uncomfortable, this is your opportunity to grab one and enjoy a cooling breeze anywhere. Only the Stone/Blush colorway is available, though.View Deal
Today's best kitchen appliance deals
In June, the Creami Scoop and Swirl dropped to its lowest-ever price of £265 at Amazon, so this £80-off deal is a pretty close call for the best deal we've seen on one of our top summer picks. We scored it 4 stars in our review, praising its delicious results, ease of use, and 13 different settings. View Deal
This weather makes an ice-cold drink extremely appealing right now, and the unique Ninja Slushi just fell back to its Black Friday price at Amazon. This kitchen appliance makes all sorts of chilled and frozen drinks, including juices, cocktails, milkshakes, and more. We loved it in our Ninja Slushi review, praising its ability to make quick and delicious drinks easily in a fun and entertaining package.View Deal
Still want smoothies and slushies without the spending over £100? This over £20 price reduction on this well-scoring blender is an absolute treat. The build quality and performance impressed us when we tested it, and the fact that it's even cheaper than it was on Black Friday makes this an even sweeter deal.View Deal
Tata Electronics confirmed a cyberattack but said operations remain unaffected, despite threat actor World Leaks claiming 630GB of alleged data
Archive reportedly includes Apple/Tesla schematics, passport scans, and proprietary files; researchers found references to Pegatron, Foxconn, and Qualcomm too
Reuters noted Tata is being extorted, though ransom details remain unclear; leaked files suggest sensitive manufacturing and engineering data exposure
Tata Electronics, the electronics and semiconductor manufacturing arm of the Tata Group conglomerate, confirmed suffering a cyberattack, but said it did not affect its operations. The scale of the breach, however, could be rather extensive.
"A few weeks ago, Tata Electronics identified a cybersecurity incident on some of our systems,” the company said in a statement to Reuters. “Our response protocols were deployed immediately, and the incident has had no impact on our operations across businesses, which remain unaffected," it said, without going into details.
This statement came almost two weeks after a threat actor called World Leaks posted a large database on its data leak site, claiming to have come from Tata Electronics, and affecting companies such as Apple and Tesla.
Sensitive files confirmed
According to Reuters, roughly a third of all iPhone production in India is done by Tata Electronics. The company supplies Apple with back panels, enclosures, and circuit board parts, among other things. For Tesla, it’s been supplying it with chips, circuit board assemblies, and vehicle motor controller units, since 2025.
World Leaks uploaded an archive of 204,341 files, weighing 630.4GB. Allegedly, it contains numerous confidential and proprietary data, including Apple and Tesla schematics, passport scans, and other sensitive files.
Reuters said Tata was being extorted for the files but did not say how much money the threat actors were demanding, or if the negotiations were progressing in any way.
Some security researchers analyzed the leaked files and said that they contained information about manufacturing and engineering processes from these two companies. Among the researchers were Cybernews, who claim to have seen “hundreds of references to Apple and Tesla”, a folder named “com.apple.factorydata”, as well as documents labeled as proprietary or confidential.
Cybernews also found files referencing other companies, too: Pegatron, Foxconn, and Qualcomm, to name a few. However, there is no evidence that any of these companies had been breached.
In case you missed it during its West End run earlier in 2026, there's good news for international theatre fans: Les Liaisons Dangereuses will be in select cinemas worldwide from June 25, before heading to the National Theatre at Homestreaming service later in the year.
This is all thanks to National Theatre Live, whose productions have been seen by more than 13 million people across the globe. I'm one of these, having seen everything from Hansard to All My Sons in theaters and local community centers.
The goal is to make British theater more accessible, which is fantastic news if you're international or just (rightfully) can't afford paying up to £120 for a ticket. Out of all of the productions I've seen, Les Liaisons Dangereuses is one that you absolutely cannot afford to miss.
For us peasants, this translates to Dangerous Liaisons, which you've likely seen in the 1988 movie of the same name starring Glenn Close and John Malkovich. This time, Lesley Manville and Aiden Turner take on the respective roles of the Marquise de Merteuil and the Vicomte de Valmont.
During its three-hour (I know) runtime, viewers experience a whirlwind of drama, deceit, unrequited love, and outright chaos. The staging is exquisitely minimal yet dramatic thanks to its use of moving mirrors, with our cast included in mass choreographed dance numbers interspersed throughout.
Frankly, it's like nothing I've ever seen. So when the National Theatre invited me on an exclusive tour behind-the-scenes during one of its two filming days for NT Live, I was as giddy as a five-year-old.
National Theatre Live: Les Liaisons Dangereuses was shot with the same cameras used to film your favorite Netflix movies
Here's how it works. For productions that aren't beamed into cinemas live, filming happens across two performances in the same week.
This way, editors can splice together the best cuts of scenes, meaning that if there's a mark on the floor or a prop out of place, you won't notice. The idea is to replicate the
When I walk into the theater on the second day of shooting, a total of seven cameras are rehearsing their placements for later in the evening. They're all a part of ARRI camera systems, which are the same kind that film all the latest Netflix movies. Small world, huh?
Most of them have a stationary position, with the camera closest to the stage operating on a dolly (which is essentially a small piece of track it can move up and down). Instead of being operated hands-on like on a movie set, the dolly camera is operated remotely from a portable control room.
So where is this mysterious crew? Instead of being packed into the auditorium, they're (literally) parked outside in two mobile van units. The first acts like a screen studio you'd see on an actual TV set, monitoring each camera through numbered live feeds. Next door is the audio mixing unit — meaning if someone coughs in the audience, it will be removed.
Basically, it's all the pleasure of being at the theater without any of the annoyances. I'm almost jealous of whoever gets to see it on screen, zooming into painful and poised movements in a way that I just couldn't see, even with my best glasses on two rows from the front.
You might be wondering what happens when a production is beamed totally live into cinemas without editing or delay, such as Inter Alia with Rosamund Pike in 2025. The process is almost the same, except that the NT team has to book a satellite to use in order to do so. According to my tour guide, that means a lot of bartering with international TV channels.
Regardless of how it is recorded, you can guarantee getting the best theatre experience possible. And if that hasn't sold you... Lesley Manville and Rivals' own Aiden Turner?! Come on.
Earlier this week, I recommended a knock-out deal for the DJI Neo — the lowest price for a DJI drone I've ever seen. But if you want a better value drone, especially if you're keen to take control of it yourself and learn to fly, then the DJI Mini 4K is my top pick.
I bought a DJI Mini 4K myself a couple of years ago, and its record-low price right now for Prime Day is less than half of what I paid — the Mini 4K costs $209 at Amazon US / £169 at Amazon UK. And unlike the Neo, a controller is included in the base package.
There are various deals for other bundles too, with additional batteries and so on — I've included links to those deals below. I've also rounded up the best DJI deals for other beginner drones, so you're completely covered for your first drone.
If you're in the US and not sure about DJI given the current ban, read on for my advice.
The gimbal-stabilized camera shoots smooth 4K video (Image credit: Tim Coleman)
Your ideal first drone to learn flight
The DJI Neo is the quickest drone to get started with, with its one-push take-off and automated subject tracking, but if you actually want to learn to fly, then the DJI Mini 4K is a better bet. I've reviewed the Mini 4K, and you can see my YouTube review below.
The base package costs a little more than the Neo, but a controller is included. If you want a controller with the Neo, the price shoots up.
For your money, you get decent aerial photography quality, thanks to a 3-axis gimbal camera, 4K video, and 12MP stills. Flight time is rated up to 31 minutes on a full charge, and there are a host of automated flight moves to quickly level up your aerial videos.
Of course, like all DJI Mini drones, the Mini 4K weighs less than 250g, making it officially a beginner drone that's not hit with the regulations that heavier, pro drones are.
If your budget stretches a little further, I recommend the recent DJI Lito X1, which gives an image quality step up and object sensing, meaning you're less likely to crash it. I've included the best deals for other beginner DJI drones below, but for me, the Mini 4K is the best value.
Today's best DJI Mini 4K deals (US)
DJI's latest entry-level drone upgrades the Mini 2 SE with 4K video capture, whereas the Mini 2 SE only shoots in 2.7K. And with this Prime Day deal, it's available for a record-low price, beating the previous low of $239. This standard combo includes DJI's basic remote controller and a single battery for a 31-minute flight time. If you're looking for your first drone equipped with a camera, the Mini 4K is a great starting point. View Deal
For and extra $46 from the deal above, this Combo adds a second battery and a carry case. I'm not seeing a deal for the Fly More Combo at the time of writing. View Deal
Today's best DJI Mini 4K deals (UK)
I've been tracking DJI prices for the last three and a half years, and the current Mini 4K price is the lowest it has ever been. This package includes the drone, controller, and one battery. The camera is mounted to a three-axis gimbal for smooth 4K video capture, offers a handy 2x digital zoom, and boasts 31 minutes of flight time. View Deal
The Fly More Combo is the ultimate package, with a carry case, three batteries and a charging hub in addition to the Mini 4K drone. View Deal
More of the best beginner DJI Mini drone deals today
More DJI Mini deals (US)
Usually I would all out recommend the Fly More Combos, but of any beginner drone, the autonomous Neo is possibly the one where you can get away with the single-battery, drone-only bundle.
On the flipside, if you'd like to try immersive FPV flight, the Neo can be purchased with goggles in the pricier Motion Fly Combo for $449 (was $529). View Deal
The DJI Neo is the easiest 4K drone you'll ever fly, and a fantastic gateway for beginners. You're not buying a Neo for its 12MP photo and 4K video quality, but its host of beginner-friendly features like one-tap takeoff and automatic return. Being just 135g, no registration is required, and, thanks to today's low price at Amazon, both the standalone drone and combo packages are available for very cheap indeed. This deal is for the Fly More bundle, which includes a controller, three batteries, and charging hub.
Usually, I recommend Fly More Combos for first-time buyers because you get a controller, extra batteries, and a charging hub, but of any beginner drone, the autonomous Neo is possibly the one where you can get away with the single-battery, drone-only bundle.
There's a huge price drop for the Neo drone-only option, with more than £50 off the original price. By my reckoning, this is the lowest price ever in the UK for a DJI drone that shoots 4K video. View Deal
The DJI Neo is the easiest 4K drone you'll ever fly, with one-tap takeoff, subject tracking, and automatic return. Weighing just 135g, no registration is required, and, thanks to today's low price at Amazon, both the standalone drone and combo packages are available for well below the list price. This deal is for the Fly More bundle, which also includes a controller, three batteries, and a charging hub.
You're not buying a Neo for its 12MP photo and 4K video quality, but its ease of use, beginner-friendly features, and versatile flight options. If you want better quality aerial images, the Mini 4K, Lito X1, and Mini 5 Pro are better picks.
Valve has said it's "rolling out improvements to [SteamOS] so it's more compatible with desktop hardware"
The company also made it clear that it's collaborating closely with Nvidia for better GPU compatibility
The aim is to make SteamOS more widely deployed on DIY PCs away from the Steam Machine, and this is tempting some gamers to ditch Windows 11
Valve has underlined how it's improving SteamOS to allow gamers to make their own version of the Steam Machine should they wish, which is already prompting some excited chatter on Reddit about abandoning Windows 11.
The Verge reports that Valve's Pierre-Loup Griffais (an engineer who often gives interviews) made it clear that the company is busy "rolling out improvements to [SteamOS] so it's more compatible with desktop hardware" and also "collaborating with Nvidia very closely" on ensuring better compatibility with Team Green's GPUs.
Before you get too excited, though, the caveat that Griffais attached is that Nvidia support isn't coming anytime soon – meaning not this year – but that it's "certainly something that we're working on in the background".
Valve just released SteamOS 3.8 which prepared the ground for the new Steam Machine, arriving with some key changes to ensure a better experience with Intel CPUs, as well as Nvidia GPUs (or indeed all discrete graphics cards, which will benefit from "greatly improved video memory management").
The introduction of KDE Plasma version 6.4.3 with Wayland support is important, too, very much upping the desktop game and bringing in better support for external displays and VRR in SteamOS, among other boons.
In short, with SteamOS 3.8, Griffais notes that "you can put together your own Steam Machine using whatever PC parts you want."
All of which is paving the way for more PC gamers who are fed up with Windows 11 and Microsoft to make the switch over to SteamOS as an alternative operating system (especially those who aren't running an AMD-powered system).
Despite it being still relatively early days in this effort (as noted regarding the work with Nvidia GPUs), some gamers are already happily declaring that they're ready to ditch Microsoft's platform for SteamOS.
One Redditor tells us: "Decided to go all in and wipe my main 2TB drive and install this [SteamOS]. Just got it installed and tried a couple games, working very well so far. Going to make myself stick with it instead of slithering back to Windows."
Here's another gamer who says: "The minute SteamOS gets Nvidia support, there is going to be a large mass exodus of users in the gaming space off of Windows."
In a similar vein, a further Reddit thread informs us: "I found that some of my Steam games which played fine on Windows 10, actually played far worse on Windows 11. I decided to switch back to Linux Mint and give Steam another go on that after having tried it a few years ago, and to my surprise, those games all worked great now. So I've stuck with Mint and every game I have in my Steam library runs well without issue. Value has really been doing a great job of bringing gaming to Linux."
And in that same thread, a Redditor observes: " The instant this [SteamOS] becomes stable with driver[s], I'm jumping out [of] Windows." (Not literally).
Analysis: Steamy Windows
(Image credit: Valve)
It appears this is prompting more than a few gamers to reconsider their position with Windows 11, but we clearly shouldn't get carried away yet. SteamOS has a long road ahead of it as a rival to Windows 11, as it remains very much a niche proposition, but clearly Valve is pushing hard to make it a much more compelling alternative.
With notable strides being taken here – and some progress being made in terms of getting anti-cheat games to run, too, in certain cases, although there's still plenty of work to be done here – we can be hopeful that SteamOS adoption could be accelerated considerably.
However, Windows 11 remains dominant by a long, long way in the PC gaming world, although SteamOS gaining traction could worry Microsoft for the longer-term, and prompt further efforts to make Windows 11 better for gamers – which again would be a win, albeit an indirect one.
Full disclosure: I am writing this before Amazon Prime Day. If the iPhone Air is not currently on sale in your region, then you should only pay its $999 / £999 / AU$1,799 asking price if a) you have a bottomless supply of cash or b) you simply must own Apple’s most beautiful iPhone (and make no mistake: the iPhone Air is Apple’s most beautiful iPhone).
But I will eat my hat if there aren't any meaningful deals on the iPhone Air by the time you read this. It's already been discounted by as much as 30% in both the UK and Australia this year, and as such, I have a hunch that Amazon will run similar deals during its annual Prime Day sale (if you’re in the US, look out for carrier-based offers on Apple’s best iPhones).
If you can snag the iPhone Air for around 20% less than its retail price this week, I’m utterly convinced that it’s the best-value phone purchase you could make right now — for two reasons.
Firstly, you will not find a nicer-looking — and nicer-feeling — phone than the iPhone Air without spending silly money on one of the best foldable phones. The Air measures just 5.64mm at its thinnest point and is some 41g lighter than the iPhone 17 Pro, despite boasting a larger 6.5-inch display.
You might not think you care about having a thin and light phone — I also didn’t to begin with — but trust me: once you start using a device of such svelte proportions, you won’t want to go back to a regular-sized phone.
Don’t believe me? Here’s a recent picture of me with a group of tech content creators showing off our current phones of choice:
I promise you this picture wasn't sponsored by Apple (Image credit: Future)
All four of us test the best phones for a living, and all four of us settled on Apple's super slim iPhone as our personal handset of choice.
The second reason why a discounted iPhone Air is the best-value phone purchase you can make right now is less obvious. Not only is this Apple’s most beautiful iPhone, but it’s also its most powerful: like the iPhone 17 Pro, the Air boasts an A19 Pro chipset and 12GB of RAM.
Now, I don’t usually highlight chipsets as a reason to buy phones — the iPhone 17e’s A19 chipset, for instance, is plenty fast enough for most people — but the iPhone Air's A19 Pro chipset and 12GB of RAM combination has suddenly become more significant than most people realize.
At WWDC 2026, Apple announced its all-singing, all-dancing Siri AI assistant, which will soon be available on all Apple Intelligence-compatible iPhones (read: the iPhone 15 Pro and upwards) as part of iOS 27. But only three iPhones will get the very best version of Siri AI — and the iPhone Air is among that number.
Specifically, only the iPhone 17 Pro, iPhone 17 Pro Max, and iPhone Air will get Siri voice customization and more advanced systemwide dictation, because only these phones run on Apple’s AFM Core Advanced model and 12GB of RAM.
The device requirements of AFM Core Advanced (Image credit: Apple)
Admittedly, these two features aren’t reason enough to buy a top-end iPhone — the former gives you the ability to customize the expressiveness and pace of Siri’s voice, while the latter makes Siri more effective at converting speech into accurate text — but I would bet my (non-existent) house that Apple locks several additional, more significant features behind this AFM Core Advanced paywall in future versions of iOS.
In other words, like the iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max, the iPhone Air will soon support more software features than any other iPhone — and the gap between model capabilities will only grow wider as more hardware-exclusive features are announced.
I genuinely believe this under-the-radar feature makes the iPhone Air almost worth its regular $999 / £999 / AU$1,799 asking price, but if you can pick it up for significantly cheaper than that during Prime Day, it’s a bona fide bargain.
Meta unveils $299 / £269 / AU$599 smart glasses (Meta Glasses) designed with EssilorLuxottica
They match Ray-Ban Meta AI glasses on virtually all features
They add adjustable nose pieces, and a lot of design and color choices
"It’s pretty easy to make glasses that don’t look good, it turns out," chuckled Meta CTO and Head of Reality Labs, Andrew 'Boz' Bosworth, shortly after unveiling a bumper crop of new Meta eyeware, simply called Meta Glasses, all fashioned in collaboration with EssilorLuxottica.
Bosworth says the team argues over "every gram, every quarter of a millimeter" in an effort to bring ever lighter, ever more comfortable, and ever more fashionable AI eyewear to the market. With this foray into making frames with a slightly less well-known brand than Ray-Ban, Meta is bringing the new frames — Adventurer, Fury, and Starfire Kylie [Jenner] Edition — to market at a somewhat startling price: $299 /£269 / AU$599 (not counting prescriptions).
No one size or style fits all when it comes to eyewear, Ankit Brahmbhatt, Meta's Senior Director of Product for AI glasses, told me as he walked me through some of the new frames. There are, he added, eight colorways and 26 different style options.
As I looked around the room in the Manhattan event space, I spotted black, something like ivory, tortoiseshell, deep black, green, and a dark maroon. The frames range from larger and almost boxy-looking to thinner and lighter frames. In fact, many of the EssilorLuxottica frames are so relatively thin and light that you might miss the cameras hidden in the front, and the slightly thicker stems to accommodate components and batteries, and mistake them for normal frames.
Kylie Jenner's cat-eye-style frames are particularly fetching, and surprisingly looked halfway decent on me.
Brahmbhatt told me Meta worked closely with Jenner to develop the design, adding signature touches like a tiny gem in the frame, a mirror in the case, and even Kylie Jenner's voice in the Meta AI.
There are structural changes new to the Essilor Luxottica frames. The nose piece adjusts with a push to three different positions, the stems are bendable at the ends (Bosworth noted that the wires are coated with a kind of cellulose plastic), and the stems actually flex outward. I tried on almost every style I could find, and they were all quite comfortable.
One of the biggest changes, though, is the addition of a small button behind the traditional Meta AI glasses button that you might use to capture a photo or start a video: it's a tiny Meta AI summoning button, and I used it interchangeably with saying, "Hey, Meta."
This is also the first set of Meta AI glasses to feature a Meta AI system backed by the company's more robust Muse Spark models, which provide a more conversational voice, better context awareness, and the ability to tap into the zeitgeist by checking out social media (at one point I asked Meta AI if there was chatter online about fake food, and it confirmed that many were talking about it on social media).
I tried the new Meta AI in a few scenarios, and it ably identified whatever I was looking at (I could hear it snap a picture before the analysis), launched a music playlist based on my surroundings, and translated Arabic print for me.
That all of this comes in for under $299 (Ray-Ban Meta frames start at $379), and without compromising on the 3K video-shooting quality, 12MP photos, microphones, array, or speakers, is remarkable; but these are still relatively early days in the wearable AI space.
Getting it right and making it safe
Meta CTO Andre Bosworth (left) and Meta Head of Industrial Design Peter Bristol (Image credit: Lance Ulanoff / Future)
Design is "really important if you want people to wear them as daily driver glasses," said Meta Head of Industrial Design Peter Bristol, who joined Bosworth on stage and took some questions from reporters.
In perhaps a nod to how thick and oversized AI glasses can look, the pair talked about how they made subtle changes to the designs, slimming down the frames, or simply making them look thinner by, for instance, adding a chamfer along the top edge of the frames, near the brow.
A good design means less friction, which Bristol believes can help with AI adoption.
For Meta, the goal is to "reach every corner of the market," said Bosworth, but that approach does come with risks.
When asked about growing concerns about the privacy of these glasses (there have been reports of people wearing them to illegally photograph women and even tampering with the glasses to turn off the LED "I'm filming you" light), Bosworth acknowledged these issues, but reminded us that Meta had actually "pioneered putting LED on the glasses," and talked about the anti-tampering technology they put in Gen 2 Ray-Ban Meta AI glasses. But, he added, it's "a cat and mouse game."
As for what the future holds, I pointed out to Bosworth and Bristol that, while they now have a lot of styles, not everyone wears, or wants to wear glasses. What about smart contacts?
"Absolutely, that one’s top of mind for the design team," said Bristol, adding, "We are thinking and trying the other potential paths, but it’s a complicated space, so glasses is front and center for us.”
Bosworth agreed with the premise of my question, admitting that he’s not a glasses wearer, but is happy to wear Meta AI glasses “because they brought a lot of value — but I’m aware that I’m doing it.
"The design team is absolutely captivated by this question. What are the other ways that we can deliver this capability to people who don’t have glasses on?"
My relationship with the best headphones has been quite a trial-and-error experience over the past few years, and I've gone through so many popular models — but investing in the Sony WH-1000XM5 headphones solved all of my problems.
At the time of release, we deemed them as 'the best in the business' in our review, but that also came with a rather eye-watering price tag at launch. Thankfully, that's what Amazon Prime Day is for.
If you've been putting off purchasing these headphones because of their high price point, Prime Day is your chance to score them for $198 down from $399.99 in the US, or £179.54 down from £279 if you're in the UK — stellar price drops for Sony if you ask me.
Today's best Sony WH-1000XM5 headphones deals
This is the first time we've seen this model drop below $200, and though they're not the latest in Sony's lineup, they're still incredibly popular four years after their release. Blending comfort and audio smarts into one device, the XM5s are a highly reliable pair of headphones. View Deal
In the UK it's more common for the XM5 to drop below £200, but even then the occasions are few and far between. The last time we saw a deal this good was during last year's Black Friday, but still, it wasn't a record-low price like this. View Deal
Although there are deals on the newer Sony WH-1000XM6 headphones, they're still almost double the price of the WH-1000XM5 discount and outside of the foldable ear pads, there's really not a huge difference feature-wise.
If there's one thing I've taken away from my time with my WH-1000XM5 is that they were built for longevity. I've been using the headphones for almost four years, and they're still working like I've just taken them out of the box for the first time.
They're also totally reliable. One of the biggest problems I kept running into with wireless earbuds was that they'd completely crash on me for unknown reasons after short periods of time, leaving me with one dead and one functioning earbud before that one would eventually give up.
These aren't the only reasons why I've stood by them; they're packed with a ton of handy features that make your listening experience just that bit more convenient and enjoyable. For one, these headphones have incredibly smart ambient sound controls, which they can automatically adjust based on your location.
So if you're in a busier area, the headphones can enable ambient settings to let outside noise in to help you be more aware with your surroundings. I like to enable this feature when I'm listening to music and podcasts while on walks — nature noises are just so soothing.
The headphones can also connect to two devices simultaneously, which is an added bonus if you float between your phone and laptop.
That said, the active noise cancellation works wonders for shutting out unwanted conversations for when you want an interrupted listening session, a setting I use more often than ambient mode. especially when traveling — because who wants loud conversations and roaring train sounds blaring while you're trying to listen to the new Olivia Rodrigo album for the tenth time?
Every smartwatch and fitness tracker comes with heart rate tracking, but they're not all accurate, so we test them against a Polar H10 chest-mounted heart rate monitor. The Polar H10 is used by athletes all around the world, and can be linked to a smartwatch to provide incredibly accurate metrics using its electrode system. Now it's on offer in the Amazon Prime Day sales, and if you care about fitness tracking, you should probably get one.
The Polar H10 works with a strap that goes around your ribcage underneath your heart, and connects the device to the electrodes running along the underside of your band. These electrodes monitor the electricity generated by your heart when it expands and contracts.
This is very different to (and more reliable than) the way smartwatches and the best fitness trackers measure your heart rate on your wrist. These devices use LED-based optical heart rate monitors, shining lights through your skin to measure your heart rate by detecting the changes in your blood flow. Electrical heart rate monitors are simply more accurate.
Fortunately, most smartwatches allow you to pair up a heart rate monitor like the Polar H10 via Bluetooth or ANT+ networks, so you can incorporate the more accurate data from the chest strap into your recovery and health metrics. Most heart rate monitor users tend to wear them only during workouts for the more accurate data, then rely on other fitness trackers for a general 24/7 overview. So, if you care about your fitness tracking and you already have a smartwatch you like, the Polar H10 should be your next purchase.
The Polar H10 is widely considered the 'gold standard' of heart rate monitoring, and you won't find a more accurate measurement. It's got a one-year battery life, and the batteries are replaceable. You can use it on its own connected to a smartphone, or in tandem with a smartwatch.
A better deal than the one above, largely due to Polar being a European company, so it costs less to bring the device to the UK than it does the US. The Polar H10's electrical heart rate monitor is a dedicated device used by serious athletes worldwide.
There are other heart rate monitor designs out there, such as the more expensive Garmin HRM 600 that interfaces with the Garmin Connect app in a less roundabout way than Polar.
Armbands exist too, if you prefer those to chest straps, although these tend to use optical technology rather than electrodes. The Polar Verity Sense and Coros Heart Rate Monitor are armbands, and during testing they've proved nearly as accurate as the H10 due to the placement on the arm being better than the wrist. Check out the best deals on those products below.
AdGuard VPN is now available to download straight from the Mac App Store
The app utilizes Apple’s native NetworkExtension for smoother integration
The Mac version lacks a few extra features due to Apple's restrictions
Finding the best VPN for your Apple device just got a little bit more convenient. AdGuard VPN has officially launched a dedicated app on the Mac App Store, allowing users to secure their internet traffic with a simple, one-click installation.
Until now, Mac VPN users wanting to protect their online privacy with AdGuard had to navigate to the provider's website, download a standalone installer, and set up the software manually. While this process is standard for many tech-savvy individuals, the App Store offers a faster, more familiar, and often more trustworthy experience for the average consumer.
By bringing its software directly to Apple's official marketplace, AdGuard VPN is aiming to make robust digital privacy more accessible to a broader audience. Users can now easily manage their subscriptions, handle automatic app updates, and completely uninstall the service without ever leaving the Apple ecosystem.
What the App Store release brings to macOS
Beyond the obvious convenience of a streamlined download, the new Mac App Store edition of AdGuard VPN has been specifically built around Apple's modern VPN framework.
The app utilizes Apple's native NetworkExtension framework for its VPN management. This architectural choice helps ensure that the software integrates seamlessly with macOS, minimizing system conflicts while strictly complying with Apple's latest security and platform requirements.
Nikita Kanaev, Product Manager for AdGuard VPN, explained the strategy behind the new launch: "For us, launching on the Mac App Store is about bringing AdGuard VPN closer to Mac users and giving them the installation experience they already expect, fast, native, and fully integrated into Apple’s ecosystem."
(Image credit: AdGuard)
However, there is a minor catch for power users.
Because Apple enforces strict platform restrictions on software distributed through its storefront, the new Mac App Store version differs slightly from the traditional desktop application.
AdGuard notes that the standalone release remains its most "feature-complete version," though the development team plans to minimize the differences between the two iterations over time. At the time of writing, these include the ability to purchase a two-year subscription (available on the standalone desktop app only).
Crucially, AdGuard's split tunnelling feature that let you exclude VPN traffic from specific applications — called App Exclusions — is also not available for the Mac App Store version of the app. The Website Exclusions tool, however, is accessible on both versions.
To know more about all the technical distinctions, you can consult AdGuard’s official Knowledge Base.
Is AdGuard VPN any good?
If you aren't familiar with the provider, our latest AdGuard VPN review highlights a service that has steadily grown its security capabilities since spinning out from its popular ad-blocking roots.
Rather than relying solely on standard protocols like OpenVPN or WireGuard, the service went open-source with its own custom VPN protocol. This proprietary technology is specifically designed to disguise your VPN connection as regular HTTPS web traffic, making it incredibly difficult for strict network administrators or local firewalls to detect and block your connection.
The provider has also been on a relentless development spree across multiple platforms over the past year.
With its long-awaited arrival on the Mac App Store, AdGuard is clearly cementing its position as an incredibly flexible and user-friendly option for Apple loyalists looking to boost their daily digital privacy.
Back when I was a business apprentice, I spent most of my time making coffee and taking meeting notes – how I wish these nifty little AI voice recorders existed back then.
At the press of a button, all your notes are taken and sorted seamlessly. Now I just need to find an AI to make my coffee. Right now, there's a big Prime Day sale on Plaud's superb range of AI voice recorders and dictaphones that business professionals will not want to miss.
Top of the Prime Day sales is the Plaud Note AI voice recorder, which drops to $126.99 (was $159) at Amazon. This was the device that fully converted our reviewer to AI transcription devices. After testing it out, he said: "This really is one device that will change almost every area of your professional life."
The Plaud Note is an exceptionally slim AI voice recorder designed to transcribe and summarise meetings and more. We scored this 4.5 stars in our review and awarded it a Highly Recommended badge.
The Note Pro from Plaud is an upgrade on the original Plaud Note, and comes equipped with four microphones for improved audio recording, a battery that lasts for up to 50 hours, and an AMOLED display.
The NotePin S delivers the same general AI feature-set in a more compact design. It's a versatile transcriber that can be pinned to your clothes, hung around your neck, or worn on your wrist using the included accessories.
For me, this ultra-thin and lightweight display does everything I need for both work and play, seamlessly hooking up to my laptop, as well as my games consoles. But what most impressed me was the ultra-thin and lightweight aluminum alloy build that makes it perfect for business travel.
Specs-wise, it's a 2.5K resolution IPS panel capable of 180Hz refresh rates, with 107% sRGB color coverage - suitable for most business professionals, but not all content creators. Everything is included in the box, from power and display cables to a protective sleeve. In fact, I love it so much, I'm using it as a second display right now while I write this and for tracking down more Prime Day home office deals.
Today's top portable monitor deal
I genuinely love this portable monitor, and I use it every day as a second screen at work. It's thin, lightweight, hits 2.5K resolution and 180Hz refresh rates, and even comes with a protective sleeve in the box. I scored it 4.5 stars after testing.
When I was recently updating my guide to the best portable monitors, there was only one contender for best overall - the display that's suitable for most people. And that was the Arzopa Z3FC.
For the price, you're getting a good-sized 16.1-inch screen that I find invaluable as a second work monitor, a build quality that feels durable - although I wouldn't fancy dropping it, and
For gamers, it also boasts fast refresh rates across DisplayPort and HDMI if you're using it for gaming (I tested it across the Nintendo Switch, Switch 2, and Xbox Series X and it worked effortlessly each time).
Compared to similar budget portable monitors, there's a lot to like here. The only downsides as far as I was concerned was the lack of stronger color accuracy. It's good for office work, gaming, and working on digital media destined for your website or social media feed. But if you're a creative professional, it doesn't quite have the punch required for print-ready assets or 4K videos.
There's no built-in battery here - it'll draw power from your laptop, or you can connect a power bank or use the supplied power cable. But that's an intentional design feature to maintain the svelte, lightweight style.
Overall, if you're streaming content on your summer holidays or preparing for another business trip, the Arzopa Z3FC is an easy recommendation from me. It's so good, I ordered a second one for my wife.
FutureFutureFutureFutureFuture
Also consider: More Arzopa portable monitor deals
The Z1RC is a 16-inch portable display that performed well during our tests (read the review here). It's cheap, but pleasantly cheerful, and a good alternative to the Z3FC if you're prioritizing color accuracy over refresh rates, hitting 123% sRGB.
This 15.6-inch 1080p monitor is at the budget end for Prime Day, but worth checking out - I'd expect better build quality here compared to a lot of the $50 portable monitors I'm seeing in the sales.
The Ninja Luxe Café Pro is one of the most popular semi-automatic espresso machines around, and it's received a generous price cut for Prime Day, knocking it down from $749.99 to $599. That's a respectable offer, but if you're looking for a real bargain on a coffee maker, I suggest checking out De'Longhi's offerings instead — specifically the excellent De'Longhi La Specialista Arte Evo, which is now just $399.95 (was $699.95) and was rated five stars in our review.
Like the Luxe Café Pro, the La Specialista Arte Evo can handle the trickiest parts of the espresso-making process for you, but lets you take as much control as you want as you develop your barista skills. Both machines grind coffee for you directly into the portafilter basket and help you tamp it down perfectly, then make it easy to get exactly the right extraction for consistently delicious and well-balanced results.
We awarded the De'Longhi La Specialista Arte Evo a full five stars in our review thanks to its ease of use, smart looks, and solid build, and it's a great alternative to the Ninja machine if your budget won't stretch quite that far. Sure, it lacks a few of the Ninja's features. such as a tamping lever and automatic milk frother, but it has all the essentials covered and looks great too.
The La Specialista Touch earned a full five stars in our review, with our tester Cesci Angell calling it "delightfully straightforward to use". It helps you hone your barista skills, can brew hot or cold, and is a great alternative to the pricier Ninja Luxe Café Pro with this Prime Day deal.View Deal
The Luxe Café Pro has become a viral hit, and it's got a $150 discount for Prime Day that brings it back down to its lowest ever price. It makes brewing hot or cold coffee a breeze, and has a clever tamping system that the Luxe Café Premier lacks.View Deal
More great coffee maker deals
If neither of the coffee makers above is right for you, there are lots more savings on espresso machines from big brands this Prime Day. As TechRadar's resident coffee expert, and a trained barista, I've picked out a handful of today's best offers.
This is the original Luxe Café, which is very similar to the Premier, but lacks the tamping handle and has a slightly smaller menu of drink presets. It's still an excellent coffee maker, and one that our reviewer gave four and a half stars.View Deal
This coffee maker (sold under the brand name Sage in the UK) works much like the Ninja Luxe Café and De'Longhi La Specialista, taking the complexity out of brewing espresso. We gave it four and a half stars out of five, and Amazon has provided an impressive Prime Day price cut.View Deal
Looking for a coffee maker that will handle all the work for you? The Magnifica Evo brews even complex drinks at the press of a button and has received a colossal price cut in this year's Prime Day sale. With 39% off the original price, it's a great deal on a fully-automatic machine.View Deal
Prime Day has arrived, and while it can be tempting to seek out deals on the latest TVs, it's usually last year’s models that are often the best value. These TVs are nearing the end of their life cycle, so retailers will be looking to get rid of stock to make room for the next generation.
Whether you’re looking for a budget mini-LED that’s perfect for a bright room, or a contrast-rich OLED for movie nights, there will be a Prime Day deal for you. Heck, some of these TVs will even be perfect for taking in World Cup soccer games as the tournament heats up.
As TechRadar’s TV tester, the four models below are my picks from our list of the best TVs for those on the lookout for a Prime Day bargain, and they even include some of the best TVs I've seen.
TCL QM7K/C7K
TCL QM7KFutureTCL C7KFuture
The TCL QM7K is a feature-packed mini-LED TV that over-delivers for its price range. It has great picture quality and a ton of solid gaming features. While this discount may be small, it does take the 65-inch model down to a new record-low price of $749.99. View Deal
The TCL C7K is one of the best value TVs I've tested, with a near-full suite of gaming features and picture quality that feels more premium than the price. This Currys deals takes the 55-inch model to a new record-low £584.10, outstanding value with this much to offer. View Deal
The TCL QM7K (known as the TCL C7K in the UK) is a feature-packed but highly affordable mini-LED TV that delivers great overall picture quality. I tested the C7K and was impressed by its accurate black levels and strong contrast, which looked great in dark movies such as The Batman. It also demonstrates effective local dimming to create an accurate picture, using its new Halo Control feature to minimize blooming.
It also delivers bold, vibrant colors that make visually rich movies such as Wicked and Elemental really pop on-screen. It’s a great option for sports, too: with the right motion setting enabled, it delivers fluid action.
Gamers are well catered for as well, with 4K 144Hz, FreeSync Premium, Dolby Vision gaming and ALLM all supported. With a low 13.5ms input lag, fast-paced and competitive games feel responsive and smooth, making this a great budget gaming display.
LG C5
(Image credit: Future)
The LG C5 is the ultimate all-around TV, delivering excellent performance for movies, gaming and sports with a full suite of features and superb picture quality. The 65-inch model has dropped to $1,199.99 at Amazon and while this isn't a record-low, it's the cheapest it's been since February. View Deal
The LG C5 covers all the bases, with OLED picture quality and razor-sharp performance for movies, sports and gaming. There's a reason it tops most of our best-of lists. The 55-inch model has dropped to £977.10 at Amazon, a new record-low price. View Deal
The LG C5 is the mid-range model in LG’s 2025 OLED TV lineup and can often be found at a decent discount in the Prime Day sales. Arriving with an extensive feature list, the C5 delivers excellent picture quality at a competitive price.
The C5 combines inky blacks, bright highlights and a peak HDR brightness of 1,180 nits to produce impactful high-contrast images as seen in movies such as Alien: Romulus. Colors are vibrant yet natural, making everything from animated movies such as The Wild Robot to live-action films look superb. Elsewhere, crisp detail and razor-sharp motion ensure sports look smooth and clear, too.
With 4K, 144Hz, full VRR support (including FreeSync and G-Sync), Dolby Vision gaming, HGiG and ALLM across all four HDMI 2.1 ports, and an ultra-low 9.2ms input lag, the C5 remains one of the best gaming TVs available.
Samsung QN90F
(Image credit: Future)
The Samsung QN90F is our ultimate TV for sport thanks to its brightness, glare-free screen and excellent motion handling, making it a perfect World Cup TV. Stock is either running low or gone across various retailers, but Best Buy has the 65-inch model for a record-low $1,399.99.View Deal
Still looking for that TV upgrade for the World Cup? The Samsung QN90F is our pick for the best TV for sports and the 55-inch model has dropped to £809.10, which is the cheapest it's ever been. With a glare-free screen and solid brightness, it's ideal for bright rooms, too. View Deal
Our pick as the best TV for sport, the Samsung QN90F is the flagship 4K Neo QLED in Samsung’s 2025 TV lineup. A powerhouse for movies, gaming and sports, it really does cover all bases.
With a peak HDR brightness of 2,086 nits, 667 nits of full-screen HDR brightness and an effective anti-glare screen, the QN90F is a superb TV for bright rooms and daytime viewing. Throw in superb motion handling and you have the perfect TV for sports (it was my top recommendation for a World Cup TV upgrade). The QN90F also delivers for movies, displaying strong contrast in darker scenes from movies such as Oppenheimer and bold, vivid colors that pop on-screen.
Packed with gaming features including 4K 165Hz, VRR including FreeSync Premium Pro, ALLM and HDR10+ gaming support across four HDMI 2.1 ports, as well as a 9.5ms input lag time, the QN90F is a phenomenal gaming TV.
LG B5
(Image credit: Future)
Easily one of the best value OLED TVs available, the LG B5 48-inch has dropped to $599.99. It's not a record-low low, but still a very good price. This is the perfect TV if you're looking for a bedroom-sized display for gaming. View Deal
LG's best value OLED hits its lowest ever price with this Prime Day deal, with the 48-inch LG B5 hitting £567, beating the previous cheapest price by £60. Perfect for bedroom gaming, the B5 has a full suite of gaming features and delivers smooth gameplay. View Deal
LG’s entry-level OLED for 2025, the LG B5 is great value for what it offers. It delivers the rich contrast and deep blacks OLED is known for at a more affordable price than many rival OLED TVs, while also packing an impressive range of gaming and smart TV features.
The B5’s overall picture quality is brilliant, even though it might lack the brightness of step-up OLEDs. Colors are both accurate and vibrant enough to do justice to movies such as The Sound of Music, while its fantastic motion handling makes it a great choice for watching sports (a potential World Cup TV, perhaps?), with all the crisp, refined detail you'd expect of an OLED panel.
The B5 also delivers for gamers, arriving with four HDMI 2.1 ports that support 4K 120Hz, full VRR, HGiG, ALLM and Dolby Vision. Its low 9.1ms input lag time also delivers a consistently smooth performance, even in fast-action games.
Traditionally, summer is a time for BBQs. But in recent years, my summer get-togethers have been all about al fresco pizzas — and they're all the better for it. It started with my Ooni, and then gradually, all my friends and family bought their own outdoor pizza ovens. Make your own dough (or pick up some ready-made balls of dough; they're not too hard to find), grab a bunch of toppings and let everyone create their own personal pizza. It's the perfect summer party activity, and there's delicious food as a bonus.
It's just challenging enough to feel like a special occasion, but not so much that everyone can't get stuck in. (My top tip is to ditch the cheese on at least one of your bases and add butter mixed with grated garlic — get ready for the most delicious garlic bread of your life).
It might not be the most immediately attractive time to be adding more heat into the mix, given that it's starting to feel like we are living in one big oven right now. If you can look past that, now's actually a really great time to shop. The Amazon Prime Day sale has begun and a bunch of pizza ovens from leading brands have big discounts — plus, other retailers are having their own rival sales, so the pizza deals pool is even wider. I'd suggest the excellent Ooni range if you're looking for a gas or multifuel option, or Ninja for faff-free but slightly less authentic electric. I've also found some wood-fired pizza oven options if you're after that delicious smoky taste.
Sky set to adapt its 2025 political podcast The Wargame as an 'immersive' new documentary series of the same name
UK politicians, including Michael Gove, Nicola Sturgeon, and Penny Mordaunt, will form a mock government cabinet that is faced with the threat of war from Russia
Will come to Sky and NOW TV in September 2026
Sky has announced plans to adapt its hit 2025 political podcast The Wargame as an "immersive" documentary service coming to both the streamer and NOW TV in September 2026.
The premise will remain the same across four 60-minute episodes, which "take viewers beyond the news cycle and behind closed doors into a sealed COBR-style crisis room where real-world senior politicians, military leaders and intelligence chiefs are challenged to confront a high-stakes scenario: a Russian attack on UK soil."
The Wargame is set six months in the future and has been developed alongside leading academics, military, and defence experts to replicate the pressure of political decision-making at the highest level.
The following core cast of former UK politicians will be assuming these (fictional) roles in the simulation:
Prime Minister — The Rt Hon. the Lord Gove PC
Deputy Prime Minister — The Rt Hon. Nicola Sturgeon PC
Defence Secretary — The Rt Hon. Dame Penny Mordaunt DBE PC
Home Secretary — The Rt Hon. the Baroness Harman KC PC
Foreign Secretary — The Rt Hon. Jim Murphy PC
Attorney General — The Rt Hon. the Baroness Warsi PC
Director of Communications — The Baroness Hazarika MBE
Chief of Defence Staff — General Sir Richard Barrons KCB CBE
National Security Adviser — The Rt Hon. the Lord Kim Darroch KCMG
Intelligence Chief — Christopher Steele
No exact release date has been confirmed as of writing, but the original podcast gives us a solid idea of how we can expect the episodes to break the "conflict" down.
Opinion: One year on, and The Wargame is still the most horrifying podcast I've ever listened to
(Image credit: Sky)
Though the podcast was paced over fives episodes rather than four, we can expect the breakdown of The Wargame to follow the same format.
Episode 1 sets the scene, with a number of seemingly unrelated attacks and issues across the UK potentially being orchestrated by Russian intelligence. In episode 2, Russia launches its first full-scale attack, with the Prime Minister having to address the nation in a time of unprecedented crisis in episode 3.
Episode 4 is when the UK's defence starts to fight back, but is on the losing foot. This all culminates in a potential ceasefire being brokered in episode 5, which, as you might expect, isn't too straightforward.
If this premise sounds horrifying, that's because it is. When the podcast first launched on Spotify, Apple, and other services, I made everybody I knew listen to it. Why? It addresses one reality that nobody in actual government wants to freely admit: the UK defence system is almost non-existent.
The Wargame concludes that the UK is susceptible to almost every kind of combative attack possible, and would most likely be defeated (or at least left in a very worrying state). It encourages a greater sense of awareness among us all, and hopefully, will lead to some critical conversations.
If you're wondering why a podcast would openly admit a country's lack of protection to an international audience, The Wargame's slogan answers that for us: "Russia knows our weaknesses, but do you?"
If you find the abundance of choice on streaming services such as Spotify and Apple Music a little overwhelming, consider this new gizmo from Swedish electronics firm Atonemo: its minimal design features just two buttons and one dial, to connect you to curated online radio stations run by NTS.
It's called the Atonemo NTS Radio Player (via Deezen), and it hooks up to your speaker system of choice via a 3.5mm analog line-out port (and there's an AUX to RCA adapter in the box if you need it).
Once connected, you can press one of the buttons to tune into either NTS Channel 1 or NTS Channel 2. The dial, meanwhile, gives you access to 16 'infinite mixtape' feeds from NTS, with icons matching the mood of each one: these mixtapes include Sheet Music (the violin icon), Sweat (the water drops icon), and Island Time (the sunshine icon).
There's a mixtape for most types of mood and most types of music, pulled directly from the NTS site. The device offers 24-bit / 192 kHz lossless audio quality, gapless playback, and a 10-band graphic equalizer that can be accessed through the app.
Bring your own tunes, too
The player simplifies your music listening (Image credit: Atonemo)
According to Atonemo co-founder and radio player designer Noah Constantinou, the gadget follows the Japanese concept of 'omakase' — that's where in a restaurant you let the expert chef choose the dishes, rather than selecting them yourself.
If you don't want the NTS DJs to pick your music, you can also stream your choice of tunes to the radio player from your phone using Google Cast, AirPlay 2, Spotify Connect, or Tidal Connect. In that regard it doubles up as an easy way of connecting your phone to a set of speakers (which Atonemo's standard Streamplayer also does).
"I think people miss tactile objects," Constantinou told Dezeen. "We have become so used to putting screens on everything when it is in many cases not necessary, and even sometimes counterproductive."
Judging by the Reddit reactions, Constantinou is right: "such a cool idea" and "I gotta have it" are just two of the many positive takes on this new gadget. The device will set you back $179 / £129 / AU$250 and can be ordered online now.
The defining feature of the AI era is the speed at which AI tools have become a significant part of our working lives. Whether that’s generating content, summarizing data or automating routine tasks, AI’s speed is collapsing timelines that once took hours, days or weeks into seconds.
This is more than just a technological advancement. The rapid adoption of AI has encouraged a culture defined by instant gratification and a shift towards immediacy and expectation.
This culture shift is one of the most powerful forces shaping AI adoption, driving innovation, unlocking productivity and redefining competitive advantage.
Yet, bubbling beneath the surface are risks at a scale we’re only just beginning to understand. Employees are inputting sensitive data into AI systems, automating processes without fully understanding security implications and increasingly trusting outputs that are not properly authorized.
While organizations are increasingly confident in AI’s capabilities, the technology risks outpacing regulation and compliance. This leaves businesses vulnerable to unwarranted data risk and more cyberattacks.
The self-sustaining acceleration loop
AI is being powered by rising demands for speed and productivity. As these models become more intuitive, they remove barriers to use and are woven into everyday workflows.
That creates a feedback loop where speed becomes the priority and anything that slows it down, be it governance, security checks and/or compliance, look like obstacles rather than necessity.
At the same time, organizations are feeding these systems sensitive information with little visibility or control over where it goes, who is using it, or why. This isn’t always deliberate, but a byproduct of urgency.
We’ve seen this before. Convenience wins until the consequences catch up. From weak passwords to rushed cloud migrations, speed has often outpaced security. AI is following a similar trajectory, only faster and at a greater scale.
Regulation and compliance in catch up mode
Regulatory frameworks are also struggling to keep pace. By the time legislation is proposed, debated and implemented, the technology it aims to govern has often evolved. This leaves regulators reacting to yesterday’s risks rather than getting ahead of tomorrow’s flaws. In cybersecurity, that’s a losing game.
The gap between innovation and oversight is widening, and gaps are where threats thrive.
Cybercriminals are already using AI to scale attacks, automate reconnaissance and generate highly convincing phishing campaigns, with AI tools lowering the barrier to entry while increasing the attack surface.
As regulatory blind spots widen, threat actors won’t wait. They will move faster than the systems designed to stop them and exploit every delay.
Reframing the conversation
This is not a case against AI. Its benefits are real and, in many cases, unavoidable. The issue is imbalance, where advancement is favored and regulation and security are compromised.
We are moving too fast without the foundations to support it. As AI becomes embedded in core business processes, small gaps can scale into serious risks.
To unlock AI’s full potential without amplifying risk, we need to reframe how we think about progress. Organizations must understand their data flows in AI environments: what is used; where it goes; and how it is protected. Visibility and governance are not optional, they are the baseline.
Security must also be built in from the outset, not retrofitted. This requires alignment across technical teams, leadership and risk functions. AI cannot sit in a silo, it needs to be integrated into broader security and compliance frameworks, supported by closer collaboration between the industry and regulators.
Slowing down to move forward
To sustain momentum, we may need to slow down and create space for regulation to catch up. Building in governance, validating data use and embedding security controls will introduce friction, but it’s the kind that builds trust and resilience.
While the suggestion to slow down may feel like trying to stop a juggernaut with a stick, taking time now to pause and reflect is vital if we’re not to keep amplifying dangerous risk. A short pause now gives space to assess what is happening, what is needed which allows organizations to take back control.
Right now, AI is accelerating faster than our ability to manage the risk it creates. We need to adjust our priorities before the gap between security and speed becomes too wide to bridge.
This article was produced as part of TechRadar Pro Perspectives, our channel to feature the best and brightest minds in the technology industry today.
The views expressed here are those of the author and are not necessarily those of TechRadarPro or Future plc. If you are interested in contributing find out more here: https://www.techradar.com/pro/perspectives-how-to-submit
Valve's announcement of the Steam Machine price has unsurprisingly spoiled the excitement of the console-like PC competing in the market.
Starting at $1,049 for the 512GB model that comes without the controller is simply unappealing to both PC enthusiasts and newcomers, making PS5 and Xbox consoles look far more valuable, despite their recent price increases.
Ultimately, the blame isn't completely on Valve. Just like MSI's new Claw 8 AI+ EX handheld with an MSRP of $1,799 (which is far more outrageous), Valve has had its hand forced by the impact of the RAM crisis, making the Steam Machine an overpriced mini PC.
(Image credit: Valve)
The Acer Nitro 60 gaming PC is one of the best choices for any gamer looking to dive into the PC ecosystem, with Nvidia's GeForce RTX 5060 GPU ready to provide great performance at 1080p and at 1440p when using upscaling. View Deal
Fortunately, though, there are far better pre-built gaming PC options available on the market. No, they're not on Amazon as Prime Day deals, but yes, they're much cheaper than the Steam Machine and more powerful.
One in particular is the Acer Nitro 60 available on Walmart for $898 (was £1,449.99), saving customers an incredible $551.99. With this specific build featuring an Nvidia GeForce RTX 5060 8GB GPU, this is a gaming PC that will provide solid performance at 1080p and even 1440p when using Nvidia's DLSS 4.5.
(Image credit: Acer / Nvidia)
It's also worth noting that it's using 16GB of DDR5 RAM, in a market where memory prices are completely out of whack due to the ongoing crisis, and a 1TB SSD that's just about enough for most setups.
The Steam Machine's base model is not only currently more expensive than this Acer Nitro 60 PC build, but it's limited to 512GB of storage space, and will be outperformed by the Nitro 60's RTX 5060 GPU.
AMD's FSR 4 has only just been made available for RDNA 3 architecture, which includes the Steam Machine's custom AMD GPU, but this reportedly won't be at launch, and doesn't stack up to Nvidia's DLSS 4.5 in terms of performance and image quality.
The only major advantage the Steam Machine holds over the Nitro 60 gaming PC in terms of game performance is its AMD hardware, which will run better on SteamOS, as Nvidia hardware isn't suited for the operating system just yet — but this is likely going to change in the future.
With the unpredictable climate of the PC hardware market, a move for the Acer Nitro 60 is a no-brainer, especially at such an affordable price.
I test a whole heap of gaming headsets, and have done so for nearly a decade now. I've also worked with a whole load of excellent freelancers who offer brilliantly clear, thoughtful, analytical, and fair takes on the products we test as a collective.
And I've agreed with every single review we've published in my time here at TechRadar Gaming — up until now. While very accurate and full of great advice, especially when the headset launched, I think my writer Phil's (who is one of the best in the business) review of the Audeze Maxwell 2 scored the gaming headset too low with a four-star rating.
I think it's a five-star headset.
Simply put, it is the best-sounding gaming headset I have ever used. After using it for a few months as a daily driver, nothing has come close before or since — even some of my absolute favorites can't hold a candle to it on sheer audio quality, detail, richness, and balance.
As a result, I have been recommending the headset at every opportunity possible. For anyone looking to upgrade their audio and take a step up, no matter your platform, this is absolutely worth the price tag — even at full price.
This is such a fantastic headset; I cannot recommend it more, even at its list price. If you have been thinking about upgrading to something more premium for this generation of gaming, on whatever platform, then this is a belter. It's not seen any price cuts yet, but it could do now given Prime Day, and competing retailer events are on this week.
This is a great price for the headset in the UK, as it can often be seen for comfortably north of the £300 mark. Upgrade your audio and never look back again.
The whole audio spectrum is served so well by the Maxwell 2's 95mm planar magnetic drivers and design that I have been immersed further into my games, picked up details I didn't realise were there, and been blasted by a full-bodied richness that's just so dang enjoyable.
Further backing this up was my recent visit to Audeze in California, where I got to see the magic, science, and philosophy up close and personal. Hearing the approach that Audeze takes to audio, as well as learning about the planar magnetic tech under the hood, including the patented SLAM technology too, only cemented my newfound opinion on this quality set.
No headset is perfect, of course, and folks will point out that its mic is just OK, or that it's weightier than other headsets — though I think we all have a tendency to be too afraid of heavier headsets, or think that heavy = bad — but the default audio quality, out of the box, is so good that it definitely, absolutely, categorically outweighs all of the potential negatives.
At launch, Phil pointed out the fact that the original Maxwell was still available and this posed a bit of a problem for the Maxwell 2, as it offered also-excellent audio but was much cheaper. However, there are genuine improvements over the Maxwell 1 that the 2 offers (like SLAM), and now, a few months after release, the OG model is harder to find, making the case for going to the Maxwell 2 even stronger.
If you want premium gaming audio, then there is none better on the market right now.
The day has arrived: Amazon's 2026 Prime Day sale is officially live, with thousands of deals on everything from coffee makers, robot vacuums, and smart home devices to MacBooks, TVs, smartwatches, and more.
As TechRadar's deals editor, I've been working with my team of tech experts to rank Amazon's 99 best Prime Day deals. We're selecting products on sale at record-low prices, most of which the TechRadar team has reviewed from brands like Apple, Samsung, Ninja, Dyson, Keurig, and Sony. Every single product that's listed has been vetted and offers incredible value thanks to today's discounts.
I'm also live-blogging today's sale, along with my team at TechRadar, highlighting our favorite products and bargains throughout the day. Just keep in mind, you must be a Prime member to shop today's sale, and if you aren't already a member, you can sign up for a free 30-day trial.
Amazon's new Fire TV Stick 4K Plus streams shows and movies on your TV in ultra-high definition 4K resolution. This updated version now supports Dolby Vision, Wi-Fi 6, and includes 2GB of RAM. This deal from Amazon Prime Day is a return to the record-low price and excellent value for an all-around streaming device.View Deal
The LG C5 OLED is TechRadar's best-rated TV, and Amazon has the 65-inch model on sale for its lowest price yet. Awarded five out of five stars in our review, the OLED display delivers an outstanding picture thanks to LG's Alpha 9 AI processor Gen8, impressive gaming features, and a comprehensive smart platform featuring all-new AI capabilities.View Deal
Another very good Prime Day Apple deal - Apple's 2nd-generation AirTag 4-pack is getting a first-time discount, on sale for $89. Great for people like me who tend to misplace things, simply attach the AirTag to anything you don't want to lose or keep track of, such as luggage or your keys, and your iPhone will locate the item.View Deal
The Ninja Blast Max was already on my Prime Day wish list, and Amazon's sale already has an impressive $30 discount on the portable blender. The large 530ml container features a leakproof lid and a detachable base so you can blend, twist, and take your smoothie on the go. The Blast can blend ice and frozen fruit, as well as liquids and powders, so you're covered for all kinds of smoothies and shakes.View Deal
Whether you want more advanced features like Lossless High Definition audio and Automatic Room Adaptation, or just love the idea of a more premium-looking speaker with faster Alexa responses, the Echo Dot Max is a great choice. This deal for Prime Day is a new record-low price.View Deal
The AirPods 4 are Apple's cheapest AirPods, and you can find them on sale for $99, which is the lowest price we've seen this year and $30 shy of the record-low. The AirPods 4 feature a new design for all-day comfort and feature Apple's H2 chip, which supports personalized spatial audio and voice isolation. You also get a redesigned case with 30 hours of battery life and support for wireless charging via USB-C.
The Breville Barista Express is on par with some of the best espresso machines we've reviewed here at TechRadar. It has a higher learning curve than the average espresso machine, but it allows you to hone your coffee skills to make drinks exactly how you like them. This is a return to the record-low price for the entry-level espresso maker and it remains a number one best-seller at Amazon, so it's looking like the right time for me to upgrade.View Deal
The MacBook Neo is in stock with all colors at Amazon today, with a small price cut, too. The latest MacBook packs a 13-inch Liquid Retina display, an A18 Pro chip, 8GB of RAM, 256GB of storage, and up to 16 hours of battery life, all for under $600. It's no wonder this latest model is already proving to be a bestseller.
This brand-new version of the Amazon 55-inch Fire TV 4-Series is on sale for its lowest price yet. The mid-sized 4K display supports HDR10, delivering a sharp, clear, and vibrant image for TV shows, movies, and sports. All major streaming apps are ready to go, too, and there's voice control via Alexa. It's an all-around solid TV for the price if you need an affordable and capable display.View Deal
My favorite Prime Day Apple deal is the Apple Watch Series 11 at its lowest price yet. The thinnest Apple Watch yet, with a wraparound LTP3 OLED display, it's a great-looking watch with Apple Intelligence-powered smarts and a boosted battery, clocking in at 24 hours of average use.
The Dyson V8 is plenty powerful, packing more attachments than the standard model to help you achieve the deep clean of your dreams. It can conveniently transform into a handheld vacuum and offers up to 40 minutes of run time. Today's Prime Day deal is the lowest price we've ever seen.View Deal
The latest version of the standard Kindle is on sale as part of the annual Prime Day sale. It's a basic ereader, but it still boasts a four-week battery life and space for thousands of books. Given it's $40 cheaper than the Paperwhite, this is clearly a better pick for the infrequent reader who's after a more budget-friendly option. At $85, this Prime Day deal matches the record-low price for the ereader, but is far from the bigger discounts I've seen in previous years.View Deal
We consider the Outdoor 4 the best outdoor security camera, so we're thrilled that it's available at a massive 65% discount. It's wire-free and satisfyingly simple to set up, with a battery life of up to 2 years. It features a user-friendly app that lets you make the most of 1080p HD video and two-way audio, with additional features available with a Blink subscription.View Deal
Best Prime Day deals under $50
This convenient wall charger is a must-buy for all your gadgets, and it's on sale for just $8.99 at Amazon's Black Friday sale. The three-sided charger features five outlets, four USB charging ports, a fireproof shell, and surge protection.View Deal
The Amazon smart plug can add smart capabilities to any device in your home, and it's on sale for just $12.99. With over 500,000 positive reviews on Amazon, the smart plug works seamlessly with Amazon Alexa, allowing you to control lights and appliances with just your voice.View Deal
If you haven't heard, wired headphones are all the rage, which is why Apple's EarPods for $14.88 are an excellent Prime Day deal. A slim, quality-looking design, clear sound, and comfortable fit are just a few of their best qualities. This model works with all devices that have a Lightning connector – which is iPhone 14 and before – so if you've got a newer iPhone, you'll instead want the USB-C version ($16.99 at Amazon).View Deal
While this Prime Day deal isn't that exciting, it's a great price on something that everyone uses and needs, and a great excuse to stock up. You get a 32-pack of AA batteries with long-lasting power that can last up to 10 years in storage.View Deal
You can get Amazon's standard Fire TV Stick for just $15.99 — a new record-low price. In our Fire TV Stick review, we found the original version was a cheap way to add essential smart features to your TV, including access to streaming apps in HD, Alexa voice controls, and the ability to control other smart home devices.View Deal
Don’t underestimate its size (and price point, for that matter), because this tiny security camera boasts a hi-res 2K camera and a spotlight for nighttime visibility. Thanks to Amazon's Prime Day sale, you can get the latest version of the security camera for under $20.View Deal
I already own a couple of these devices, and at just $19.99, it's time to stock up again. The TP-Link AC1200 boosts Wi-Fi internet coverage up to 1,500 square feet and connects up to 30 devices. At this price, it's a must-buy for your home or office.View Deal
Another top deal from the Amazon Big Spring Sale is the all-new Blink Video Doorbell for only $35.99. The Blink doorbell alerts you when motion is detected and features infrared night vision, two-way audio, a two-year battery life, and an expanded field of view.View Deal
Apple's second-generation AirTag with louder sound, a 50% improvmenet in range for Precision Finding, and the rest of the features that made the first-gen such a great item tracker are at the lowest price ever ahead of Prime Day 2026. Right now, Amazon has a single AirTag for just $24. View Deal
Save money and cut waste with a water flosser that helps remove plaque and bacteria from hard-to-reach areas between your teeth. Today's early Prime Day deal from Amazon is a few dollars shy of the lowest-ever price.View Deal
Amazon's new Fire TV Stick 4K Plus streams shows and movies on your TV in ultra-high definition 4K resolution. This updated version now supports Dolby Vision, Wi-Fi 6, and includes 2GB of RAM. This deal from Amazon Prime Day is a return to the record-low price and excellent value for an all-around streaming device.View Deal
The Amazon Echo Dot is down to $34.99 for Prime Day. Amazon's best-selling smart speaker offers improved audio, a new temperature sensor, and all the handy Alexa features just a voice command away, such as playing music, answering questions, and checking the weather. This one was $4 cheaper over Black Friday, but it's still a strong deal.View Deal
If you have wiring for a doorbell, this is an excellent deal on Ring's cheapest doorbell, knocking 50% off the list price. For that amount, you get a Retinal 2K with up to 6x enhanced zoom, live view, and two-way talk.View Deal
Apple's second-generation AirTag with louder sound, a 50% improvmenet in range for Precision Finding, and the rest of the features that made the first-gen such a great item tracker are at the lowest price ever ahead of Prime Day 2026. Right now, Amazon has a single AirTag for just $24. View Deal
Another very good Prime Day Apple deal - Apple's 2nd-generation AirTag 4-pack is getting a first-time discount, on sale for $89. Great for people like me who tend to misplace things, simply attach the AirTag to anything you don't want to lose or keep track of, such as luggage or your keys, and your iPhone will locate the item.View Deal
If you haven't heard, wired headphones are all the rage, which is why Apple's EarPods for $14.88 are an excellent Prime Day deal. A slim, quality-looking design, clear sound, and comfortable fit are just a few of their best qualities. This model works with all devices that have a Lightning connector – which is iPhone 14 and before – so if you've got a newer iPhone, you'll instead want the USB-C version ($16.99 at Amazon).View Deal
The AirPods 4 are Apple's cheapest AirPods, and you can find them on sale for $99, which is the lowest price we've seen this year and $30 shy of the record-low. The AirPods 4 feature a new design for all-day comfort and feature Apple's H2 chip, which supports personalized spatial audio and voice isolation. You also get a redesigned case with 30 hours of battery life and support for wireless charging via USB-C.
Amazon has the AirPods 4 with active noise cancellation on sale for $148.99, which is the best deal you can find right now. The AirPods 4 feature a new comfortable design, handy controls, and Apple's H2 chip, which supports personalized spatial audio and voice isolation.
This might just be the best Prime Day tech deal - Apple's AirPods Pro 3 for $179.99. Apple's newest premium buds feature improved Active Noise Cancellation, outstanding audio, a comfortable in-ear design, and new features such as live translation and heart-rate tracking. These do-it-all buds really are 100% flagship audio, and the noise-canceling quality is outstanding.View Deal
Amazon has the all-new AirPods Max 2 on sale for $399, which is the lowest price we've seen. The over-ear headphones now include Apple's H2 chip, which delivers adaptive audio, personalized volume, and improved voice isolation, resulting in superior sound. You're also getting up to 1.5x more Active Noise Cancellation and 20 hours of battery life.
Amazon has a $50 discount on the new Apple Watch SE 3, making it an excellent bargain. The Apple Watch SE 2 currently holds the position as the best budget smartwatch, but the SE 3 more than matches it – and it's a smarter buy while it's on sale this week at Amazon.
My favorite Prime Day Apple deal is an over $100 discount on the Apple Watch Series 11. The thinnest Apple Watch yet, with a wraparound LTP3 OLED display, it's a great-looking watch with Apple Intelligence-powered smarts and a boosted battery, clocking in at 24 hours of average use.
Apple's latest base iPad is on sale for $299, which is only $15 more than the record-low price. The most significant upgrade for this model versus the previous generation is the newer A16 chip for faster performance, but you'll also get double the storage as standard (128GB instead of 64GB). Other features include a sharp 11-inch Liquid Retina display and solid 12MP front- and rear-facing cameras, making this iPad the best iPad for casual streamers and scrollers.
Amazon has the newest iPad Air with the M4 chipset on sale for $519 right now. In addition to Apple's superfast brain, this iPad features a crisp Liquid Retina display, 128GB of storage as standard, 12MP front and rear cameras, and support for Apple's AI features.
The MacBook Neo is in stock with all colors at Amazon today, with a small price cut, too. The latest MacBook packs a 13-inch Liquid Retina display, an A18 Pro chip, 8GB of RAM, 256GB of storage, and up to 16 hours of battery life, all for under $600. It's no wonder this latest model is already proving to be a bestseller.
A great-value older MacBook Air that still holds its own against the newer model. You get 512GB SSD storage and 16GB RAM together with an M3 chip that still feels fast. This deal knocks 38% off the 13-inch laptop's price.View Deal
With an impressive $150 discount, this Prime Day deal addresses our main complaint about the M5 Air: it's pricier than the previous model. Now, you're getting the latest chipset, 16GB of RAM, and a bigger 512GB SSD for much less, with a price that arguably challenges even the budget MacBook Neo when it comes to outright value.
For creative professionals, the 14-inch MacBook Pro powered by the performance-driven M5 Pro chip is the one to choose. This beast flies through demanding workloads like video editing without skipping a beat.
The Ninja Blast Max was already on my Prime Day wish list, and Amazon's sale already has an impressive $30 discount on the portable blender. The large 530ml container features a leakproof lid and a detachable base so you can blend, twist, and take your smoothie on the go. The Blast can blend ice and frozen fruit, as well as liquids and powders, so you're covered for all kinds of smoothies and shakes.View Deal
An Instant Pot pressure cooker is a great addition to any kitchen thanks to its superb versatility, and it's also a popular Prime Day purchase.Our Instant Pot Duo Plus review praised this model's intuitive controls and affordability.View Deal
For less than half price, you're getting an air fryer that's dependable as well as affordable. Right now, it's much better value than it was even during last year's Prime Day and Black Friday events, and I'm confident you'll be getting your money's worth. View Deal
An air fryer allows you to enjoy your favorite fried foods with less oil, and this Ninja XL model is perfect for families. The 5.5-quart capacity drawer is enough to make meals for the whole family, and preset functions make air frying, roasting, reheating, and dehydrating easy.View Deal
I want to replace my current air fryer with this Ninja Crispi model, thanks to its glass container. It comes with two removable glass containers and lids, so it’s great for meal prep. The larger one is 3.8L, providing enough space to feed up to six people while also allowing simultaneous cooking of a whole 1.2kg chicken and vegetables. This Prime Day deal is $20 shy of the record-low price we saw during Black Friday.View Deal
The Ninja Creami Deluxe ice cream maker will surely be a Prime Day best-seller, thanks to its popularity during the hotter summer months. With a touch of a button, you can make ice cream, milkshakes, yogurts, and sorbets, and add your favorite mix-ins and flavors. This specific model includes two XL 24-oz pint containers.View Deal
There's $90 off this smart hot-and-cold Keurig coffee maker right now. It automatically adjusts its brew temperature when you make iced coffee for a mellower flavor and to avoid diluting your drink with melted ice - a perfect appliance addition this summer.View Deal
As far as its pricing history goes, the Vertuo Pop+ is back down to its Black Friday price, which is always refreshing to see during Prime Day. That said, it's been way over a year since it hit an all-time-low price, which makes us think it won't get any cheaper as Prime Day kicks in. View Deal
The Breville Barista Express is on par with some of the best espresso machines we've reviewed here at TechRadar. It has a higher learning curve than the average espresso machine, but it allows you to hone your coffee skills to make drinks exactly how you like them. This is a return to the record-low price for the entry-level espresso maker and it remains a number one best-seller at Amazon, so it's looking like the right time for me to upgrade.View Deal
The Luxe Café Pro is the cheapest this premium coffee maker has ever been. The Pro model does it all, including brewing espresso, well-balanced drip coffee, and rapid cold brew, and it features an independent hot water system.View Deal
The best entry-level bean-to-cup coffee maker is now down to half price at Amazon. It was amazing value already, so I was shocked to see it this cheap. If you were thinking of buying a compact espresso machine on Prime Day, don't wait — you can grab this one now, and you don't need a Prime subscription to get it.View Deal
Amazon's cheapest Prime Day TV deal is Insignia's 32-inch F20 Series Fire TV for just $69.99. The Fire TV features Full HD resolution, DTS Virtual :X Sound for impressive audio, smart capabilities with the Fire OS, and a voice remote with hands-free Alexa – all for under $100.View Deal
If you're looking for a cheap set for an extra bedroom, Amazon's Prime Day sale has the best-selling 32-inch 2-Series HD smart TV for a record-low price of $134.99. While the Amazon 2-Series TV lacks 4K resolution, it offers smart capabilities through the Fire TV experience and Amazon Alexa, providing hands-free control.View Deal
If you're looking for a small-screen budget TV, this 43-inch 4K Fire TV from Toshiba for $139.98 is an unbeatable deal. Toshiba's C350 is a 4K TV with HDR support, delivering solid picture quality for everyday viewing. Access to streaming apps is easy with the Fire TV OS, which has Netflix, Disney+, Prime Video, and more at your fingertips.View Deal
You can get the best-selling Insignia 50-inch F50 Series 4K TV for an incredible price of $119.99 — a record-low. The Insignia F50 Series TV features 4K HD resolution, DTS Studio Sound, smart capabilities with Fire OS, and a voice remote with hands-free Alexa, so you can use your voice to control your TV.View Deal
This brand-new version of the Amazon 55-inch Fire TV 4-Series is on sale for its lowest price yet. The mid-sized 4K display supports HDR10, delivering a sharp, clear, and vibrant image for TV shows, movies, and sports. All major streaming apps are ready to go, too, and there's voice control via Alexa. It's an all-around solid TV for the price if you need an affordable and capable display.View Deal
The latest Amazon Omni QLED is a brilliant budget TV that delivers solid picture quality and a good set of gaming features, including 4K 60Hz, Dolby Vision, and HDR10+, for an affordable price. This Prime Day discount brings the 55-inch model to its lowest-ever price of $279.99.View Deal
This Hisense U7 Series delivers top TV tech for the money in a reasonably sized display, including a bright, vibrant QLED panel with excellent contrast and a high 165Hz refresh rate for smooth images. It will excel as a TV for watching sports, streaming all your favorite shows and movies, and playing the latest games.View Deal
This Prime Day deal takes the 65-inch Amazon Ember Omni Mini-LED TV down to a record-low price of $879.97. This TV delivers solid brightness and contrast, along with bold colors, and a ready-to-use, out-of-the-box sports mode that lets you watch sports with minimal setup. It also offers a robust selection of gaming features, including 4K, 144Hz, VRR, ALLM, and Dolby Vision support.View Deal
The LG C5 OLED is TechRadar's best-rated TV, while it lasts — it's getting hard to find in some sizes! Awarded five out of five stars in our review, the OLED display delivers an outstanding picture thanks to LG's Alpha 9 AI processor Gen8, impressive gaming features, and a comprehensive smart platform featuring all-new AI capabilities.View Deal
Samsung's S90F OLED TV is one of our best-rated OLED TVs, and it's down to $1,397.99, thanks to a $1,000 discount. The S90F OLED TV delivers an outstanding picture, thanks to the quantum dot OLED technology and Samsung's NQ4 AI Gen3 processor. You're also getting extensive gaming features and Samsung's impressive Tizen operating system.View Deal
Here is an Amazon exclusive deal on a massive display. You can get TCL's 98-inch QM64L Series for $1,799.99, which is an incredible price for a TV of this size. A truly great budget mini-LED TV, the TCL QM64L delivers vibrant picture quality and solid gaming features for a price that won't break the bank.View Deal
The latest version of the standard Kindle is on sale as part of the annual Prime Day sale. It's a basic ereader, but it still boasts a four-week battery life and space for thousands of books. Given it's $40 cheaper than the Paperwhite, this is clearly a better pick for the infrequent reader who's after a more budget-friendly option. At $85, this Prime Day deal matches the record-low price for the ereader, but is far from the bigger discounts I've seen in previous years.View Deal
Amazon Prime Day features an OK, if a little disappointing, deal on the latest Kindle Paperwhite. We found in our Kindle Paperwhite review that it's packed with features to suit all avid readers, including a 12-week battery life, glare-free 7-inch screen, adjustable warm light, and storage space for thousands of books. This is a good buy and one of the best ereaders out there, it's just a shame that the days of even bigger discounts are well in the past.
The Kindle Colorsoft is down to its lowest price as part of Amazon Prime Day. As Amazon's first and only colored Kindle, it's a must-have for people who love reading travel guides, graphic novels, and other genres with a lot of images and photographs. It's USB-C and wireless charging compatible, lasting up to 8 weeks on a full battery.View Deal
This updated version of the Kindle Scribe hasn't been discounted since launch, so this Prime Day is a great time to bag a deal. The Scribe combines some of the best features of the Kindle Paperwhite, such as the glare-free and auto-adjusting display, along with the option to take notes, comment on documents, and doodle using the included stylus pen. Our Kindle Scribe review was down on some missing features that have been added in recent updates, so now this is a better value for a multi-functional device.View Deal
You can get Amazon's standard Fire TV Stick for just $15.99 — a new record-low price. In our Fire TV Stick review, we found the original version was a cheap way to add essential smart features to your TV, including access to streaming apps in HD, Alexa voice controls, and the ability to control other smart home devices.View Deal
Amazon's newest 4K streaming stick is down to its lowest-ever price for Prime Day. Considering it's only a few bucks more than the cheaper HD version, you might as well pay for the upgrade and get access to higher resolution streaming — as long as you have a 4K TV. It lacks a few premium features found in the more expensive Plus and Max models, such as improved Wi-Fi and Dolby Atmos, but this is more than enough to cover general everyday use.View Deal
Amazon's new Fire TV Stick 4K Plus streams shows and movies on your TV in ultra-high definition 4K resolution. This updated version now supports Dolby Vision, Wi-Fi 6, and includes 2GB of RAM. This deal from Amazon Prime Day is a return to the record-low price and excellent value for an all-around streaming device.View Deal
This is $2 shy of the record-low price for Amazon's premium streaming device. The Fire TV Stick 4K Max streams the same content at the same quality as the standard 4K version, but the extra power inside delivers faster app navigation. Plus, it uses Wi-Fi 6E technology to deliver a more stable, consistent streaming experience.View Deal
The 4K Fire TV Cube is Amazon's fastest-ever streaming media player, functioning as a smart speaker that allows you to control your smart home devices. The Fire TV Cube features Dolby Vision, HDR, and Dolby Atmos support, and works with Amazon Alexa for hands-free control.View Deal
The Amazon Echo Dot is down to $34.99 for Prime Day. Amazon's best-selling smart speaker offers improved audio, a new temperature sensor, and all the handy Alexa features just a voice command away, such as playing music, answering questions, and checking the weather. This one was $4 cheaper over Black Friday, but it's still a strong deal.View Deal
Amazon's Echo Spot is a solid smart alarm clock that pairs a 2.83-inch touchscreen with a 1.73-inch front-firing speaker. With Alexa onboard, you can ask the assistant for the weather, play music, or, of course, schedule alarms. This Prime Day deal matches the previous record-low price we saw during Black Friday.View Deal
Whether you want more advanced features like Lossless High Definition audio and Automatic Room Adaptation, or just love the idea of a more premium-looking speaker with faster Alexa responses, the Echo Dot Max is a great choice. This deal for Prime Day is a new record-low price.View Deal
Amazon's best-selling Echo Show 5 is down to $59.99 for Prime Day. The latest version of the Echo Show 5 features a compact 5.5-inch display but packs impressive sound with deeper bass and clearer vocals. Voice controls are enabled through Amazon Alexa, while you can use the smart screen to listen to podcasts, watch movies, stream videos, play music, and more.View Deal
Amazon's larger smart display just got its biggest discount yet ahead of Prime Day. The Echo Show 11 boasts a vibrant 11-inch full HD screen and spatial audio support for room-filling sound when listening to music or watching videos. With Alexa+ support, too, you get access to all of its advanced AI features, and an easy way to connect and control other smart devices around you home.View Deal
The latest Echo Show 15 got a big refresh when it launched, bringing its specs up to speed and offering a better Alexa experience. These were the first smart displays from Amazon to see the Alexa+ treatment and, naturally, offer one of the better user experiences with Amazon's gen AI-boosted subscription service.View Deal
If your children are at an age where they're after something a bit more capable in tech, then this Amazon Fire HD 10 Kids tablet is a solid upgrade. It has all the parental controls, safety features, and protective measures, and an impressive 13-hour battery life. Today's Prime Day deal is just $5 shy of the record-low price.View Deal
The cheapest Kindle deal on Amazon right now is this excellent discount on the latest Amazon Kindle Kids version. Simply put, this model is functionally the same as the standard Kindle but comes with a Kid-friendly cover, a six-month trial for Amazon Kids Plus, and an extended two-year warranty. Regardless of whether you're a small or big kid, this is a great deal on the baseline Kindle.View Deal
Similar to the above deal on the standard Kindle, the cheapest Kindle Paperwhite deal available at Amazon today is on the Kids Edition variant. Again, the device is functionally the same as the standard Kindle Paperwhite, but you get a themed cover, a six-month trial of Amazon Kids+, and an extended warranty. The main selling point for the Paperwhite over the standard Kindle is that it's waterproof and features a larger seven-inch display.View Deal
The Kindle Colorsoft Kids has reached $189 on two occasions before, but today's deal is a brand-new record-low price on the latest model. While the Colorsoft is pricier than the others, as the name suggests, it has a color display that's fantastic for graphic novels and kids' books. Otherwise, it's very similar to the Paperwhite in that it's waterproof, comes with 12 months of Amazon Kids+, a themed cover, and a two-year guarantee.View Deal
Another top deal from the Amazon Big Spring Sale is the all-new Blink Video Doorbell for only $35.99. The Blink doorbell alerts you when motion is detected and features infrared night vision, two-way audio, a two-year battery life, and an expanded field of view.View Deal
Don’t underestimate its size (and price point, for that matter), because this tiny security camera boasts a hi-res 2K camera and a spotlight for nighttime visibility. Thanks to Amazon's Prime Day sale, you can get the latest version of the security camera for under $20.View Deal
We consider the Outdoor 4 the best outdoor security camera, so we're thrilled that it's available at a massive 65% discount. It's wire-free and satisfyingly simple to set up, with a battery life of up to 2 years. It features a user-friendly app that lets you make the most of 1080p HD video and two-way audio, with additional features available with a Blink subscription.View Deal
If you have wiring for a doorbell, this is an excellent deal on Ring's cheapest doorbell, knocking 50% off the list price. For that amount, you get a Retinal 2K with up to 6x enhanced zoom, live view, and two-way talk.View Deal
I already own the best-selling Ring Video Doorbell and can't imagine living without it. The smart doorbell features a built-in battery and lets you see, hear, and speak to anyone from your phone or computer. Today's Prime Day deal from Amazon is a new record-low price.View Deal
The Ring Battery Video Doorbell Plus offers higher resolution than the standard model, plus color night vision, and it's down to a record-low price of $99.99 in this Prime Day deal, so why not upgrade and treat your home to enhanced security?View Deal
There's a massive 50% discount on the already affordable Ring Indoor Cam at Amazon's Prime Day sale. This plug-in security camera works with Alexa and offers motion detection and real-time notifications, so you can stay up to date on what's happening.View Deal
There's 50% off this easy-to-install Ring Outdoor Cam Plus right now, so you can enjoy a wide field of view in 2K Video for under $60. This plug-in security camera works with Alexa and offers motion detection and real-time notifications, so you can stay up to date on what's happening.View Deal
This Prime Day deal lets you get the Ring Outdoor Camera for $39.99 — that's the lowest price I've ever seen. The Alexa-enabled security camera features motion-activated notifications, two-way talk, and can be placed outside thanks to the weather-resistant design and a battery life of six to twelve months.View Deal
The Ring Floodlight Camera Wired Plus is 50% off at Amazon, bringing the price down to a record-low $89.99. The motion-activated HD camera features two-way talk, customizable motion zones, and notifies your smartphone, tablet, or laptop when motion is detected.View Deal
Here's an older and fairly basic Chromebook, but this one comes with a welcome bump up to 8GB of RAM to help boost performance. It's still best-suited to general use because of the entry-level processor and limited storage space, but it's up to the job of web browsing, light work, writing documents, and streaming media. Plus, you get the superior battery life of up to 11.5 hours, which is much more compared to similarly priced Windows machines.View Deal
This version of the Acer Chromebook Plus offers an impressive amount of power for the price. It includes 8GB of RAM and an Intel Core i3 processor to boost performance, boot times and load times. Storage of 256GB is fairly average for the price, but battery life is solid at up to 10 hours on a single charge. That's more than enough to last a full working day. At a little over $300, it's a smart buy for school or college, or just as a home laptop for light use and everyday tasks.View Deal
If you want a cheap Windows laptop, then this configuration of the Asus Vivobook Go is an excellent buy and terrific value for money. You get an AMD Ryzen 5 processor, 8GB of RAM and a large 512GB SSD to ensure good overall performance and enough essential speedy storage for the price. It's a top buy right now if you're on a budget and need a laptop for general everyday use, admin tasks, light work, or schoolwork.View Deal
There's a big saving on this Asus Vivobook 14 at Amazon. It's a modern machine, with an efficient Snapdragon X processor, 16GB of RAM and a 512GB SSD, so you have enough power and storage space for everyday jobs. It's a top buy right now if you have a reasonable budget and need a strong mid-range laptop for general use, admin tasks, light work, or schoolwork. It also boasts an incredible 29-hour battery life.View Deal
This may be the older MacBook Air, but it's still a great value, and comfortably holds its own against the newer model. You get 512GB SSD storage and 16GB RAM alongside the speedy M3 chip. This deal knocks 38% off the 13-inch laptop and bring it down to a record-low price.View Deal
Bissell portable carpet cleaners are breakout stars at holiday sales like Prime Day, and Amazon has the top-rated Little Green Mini model for $79.99. Perfect for pet owners and parents, the portable carpet cleaner can magically erase spills and stains from carpets, couches, auto interiors, and more.View Deal
This is another best-selling appliance during Prime Day, and it's already on sale for just $59 - just $9 shy of the all-time low price. The Shark mop features powerful steam and a rotating pad for a deep clean and includes three steam modes for heavy or light stains and messes.View Deal
If you're looking for a powerful upright vacuum but don't want to spend a lot on a Dyson, Amazon's Prime Day sale has the best-selling Shark Navigator Lift-Away on sale for $139.99. The upright vacuum works on both carpet and hard floors, featuring lift-away technology that allows you to easily clean hard-to-reach areas by simply lifting the pod.View Deal
The Shark PowerPro Plus Cordless Stick Vacuum is a solid starter package from a reputable brand at its lowest price yet. It includes a self-cleaning brushroll, a HEPA filter for catching dust and allergens, and up to 50 minutes of runtime at full charge. In addition to its standard form and vacuum head, it can convert into a handheld vacuum and includes a crevice tool to address hard-to-reach places. The LED lights also make it easier to spot dirt and clean it.View Deal
The Dyson V8 is plenty powerful, packing more attachments than the standard model to help you achieve the deep clean of your dreams. It can conveniently transform into a handheld vacuum and offers up to 40 minutes of run time. Today's Prime Day deal is the lowest price we've ever seen.View Deal
If you haven't heard, wired headphones are all the rage, which is why Apple's EarPods for $14.88 are an excellent Prime Day deal. A slim, quality-looking design, clear sound, and comfortable fit are just a few of their best qualities. This model works with all devices that have a Lightning connector – which is iPhone 14 and before – so if you've got a newer iPhone, you'll instead want the USB-C version ($16.99 at Amazon).View Deal
The AirPods 4 are Apple's cheapest AirPods, and you can find them on sale for $99, which is the lowest price we've seen this year and just $30 shy of the record-low. The AirPods 4 feature a new design for all-day comfort and feature Apple's H2 chip, which supports personalized spatial audio and voice isolation. You also get a redesigned case with 30 hours of battery life and support for wireless charging via USB-C.
Amazon has the AirPods 4 with active noise cancellation on sale for $148.99, which is the best deal you can find right now. The AirPods 4 feature a new comfortable design, handy controls, and Apple's H2 chip, which supports personalized spatial audio and voice isolation.
This might just be the best Prime Day tech deal - Apple's AirPods Pro 3 for $179.99. Apple's newest premium buds feature improved Active Noise Cancellation, outstanding audio, a comfortable in-ear design, and new features such as live translation and heart-rate tracking. These do-it-all buds really are 100% flagship audio, and the noise-canceling quality is outstanding.View Deal
Amazon has the all-new AirPods Max 2 on sale for $399, which is the lowest price they've ever been. The over-ear headphones now include Apple's H2 chip, which delivers adaptive audio, personalized volume, and improved voice isolation, resulting in superior sound. You're also getting up to 1.5x more Active Noise Cancellation and 20 hours of battery life.
This is the cheapest these have ever been! They've been $56 before, but this chops an extra $3 off that – hurrah! Amazon's listing their most recent $79 fee as a comparison, but make no mistake, their original MSRP is the one you see in this deal. A top saving! Highly recommended. View Deal
In my glowing 4.5-star review of these truly likeable September 2025-issue noise-cancelling over-ears, I said they "could easily cost twice as much", adding "you'll struggle to find a more original set of affordable headphones that offer this much for this little". Well, now that figure has shrunk to just $61.75, a fee our price trackers have never seen until now — their previous all-time low price was $68, just for full clarity. For this money, and as long as the glorious white or light green colorways suit, I wouldn't even hesitate. Highly recommended! View Deal
A moment for the 'fried-egg-meets-cassette-tape' colorway though… yes, it's a look for the bold, but the deal is live on the slightly more demure black or white finishes too, and this March 2026 set of noise cancelling cans doesn't just excite us in the looks department. These aren't to be confused with the slightly disappointing Headphone (1) — no no, this is the greatly improved (and far cheaper) follow-up set. And in our full review, we summarised our thoughts thus: "Now THAT's how you do a second version". This is the cheapest they've ever been, but given that they're barely three months old, that's not surprising… View Deal
Sony's newest mid-range wireless earbuds for less than $80 in Amazon's early Black Friday sale? Yup: this is a real bargain. For this money, you're getting Sony quality for the kind of money you'd expect to pay for a much lesser brand. In our Sony WF-C710N review, we heaped praise on these buds for their bolstered battery life, fantastic sound quality and upgraded ANC. At this price point, my recommending them is a no-brainer – at a third of the price of the high-end Sony WF-1000XM5 earbuds, we think these are the better-value buy.View Deal
This is the first time we've seen this model drop below $200, and though they're not the latest in Sony's lineup, they're still incredibly popular four years after their release. Blending comfort and audio smarts into one device, the XM5s are a highly reliable pair of headphones. View Deal
The Sony WH-1000XM6 headphones are the best Sony headphones around — and this is $20 cheaper than they've ever been! They’ve been co-created with world-renowned audio engineers, so you get fantastic sound clarity and precision. A lightweight carbon fiber dome ensures high fidelity sound and rich vocals. You also get powerful noise-cancelling, along with a six-microphone AI-based beamforming system for great noise reduction on calls. Up to 30 hours of battery life rounds things off nicely. Did I mention this the cheapest they've ever been? Quick! View Deal
The excellent EAH-AZ80 that came before this model basically tore up the rule book on sound quality and features in wireless earbuds – and the AZ100 are even better. Released in January 2025, these little beauties are still the only earbuds to offer multipoint to three devices simultaneously, plus excellent sidetone tech for hearing your own voice in calls, as well as some of the most neutral and detailed audio in an even smaller, even more premium-feel design. Oh, and the deal? It's a return to their lowest-seen price ever. Highly recommended. View Deal
Bose is one of the biggest names in the world of headphones, and that reputation for quality is shown in these earbuds. The Ultra Open boast incredible sound, supreme power, and excellent battery life, making them a seriously premium pair of all-around buds. Now at a record-low price (as long as certain finishes work for you), so there's no better time to buy.View Deal
We awarded them the full five stars in our review, thanks to the brilliant noise cancellation, excellent audio quality, and extremely comfortable design. We had nothing more to say except that they are the 'best active noise-canceling cans for the money.'View Deal
The Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 are our pick for the best running headphones for endurance. So, if you’re running longer distances, these are excellent. The incredibly well-engineered earhook design delivers a secure fit, and the buds offer solid battery life and good sound quality. Today's Prime Day deal is $20 shy of the record-low price.View Deal
The Beats Solo 4 supports lossless audio via USB-C or a 3.5mm audio cable, and Spatial Audio, which uses head tracking to enhance your listening experience. These headphones also last up to 50 hours on a single charge and can regain five hours of playback time in just 10 minutes of charging.View Deal
Grab the highly-rated Beats Studio Pro for $169.95, which is just $10 shy of the all-time record-low price. They're gorgeous-looking, easy to use, and the sound is good (read about it in our Beats Studio Pro review), so if the lack of multipoint pairing (they do auto-switch with Apple devices, though) and wearer detection doesn't bother you, this is a very solid deal.View Deal
Amazon's cheapest Fitbit deal is the ultra-slim Fitbit Inspire 3 on sale for just $79.95 - just $10 more than the record-low price. Made for everyday wear, the Inspire 3 offers 24/7 heart rate monitoring and tracks sleep, workouts, stress, and more.View Deal
Not only is the Fitbit Charge 6 one of our favorite fitness trackers, but it's also one of the best Fitbits overall. The Charge 6 features a sleek design and offers fitness basics, with 41 exercise modes and up to 7 days of battery life. Today's Prime Day deal is a record-low price.View Deal
You can get the feature-packed Fitbit Versa 4 on sale for $139.95. The top-rated smartwatch features a built-in GPS for tracking runs, walks, and bike rides. Plus, it provides a daily readiness score to help you determine whether your body is ready for a workout or recovery, based on helpful insights.View Deal
You can snag a whopping $50 discount on the Fitbit Sense 2, bringing the price down to $197.95. The Sense 2 is one of Fitbit's most advanced health and fitness smartwatches, capable of tracking sleep and stress and featuring smartphone notifications, contactless payments, and GPS.View Deal
Amazon has a $50 discount on the new Apple Watch SE 3, making it an excellent bargain. The Apple Watch SE 2 currently holds the position as the best budget smartwatch, but the SE 3 more than matches it – and it's a smarter buy while it's on sale this week at Amazon.
My favorite Prime Day Apple deal is a $100 discount on the Apple Watch Series 11. The thinnest Apple Watch yet, with a wraparound LTP3 OLED display, it's a great-looking watch with Apple Intelligence-powered smarts and a boosted battery, clocking in at 24 hours of average use.
You can save $100 on the brand-new Apple Watch Ultra 3 at Amazon's Prime Day sale. Packed with premium features, you're getting Cellular connectivity, a boosted 42-hour battery life, and emergency satellite messaging. Today's deal is the lowest price we've seen this year.View Deal
Save 15% on the Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra in all colorways, including the fetching Titanium Blue version introduced last year. While it's not the best choice for everyone, its power, longevity (up to 100 hours!) and rugged durability means it's well-made for adventurers and triathletes. Watch out, Garmin. View Deal
Here's a chance to get a whopping 50% off the excellent Garmin epix Pro (Gen 2). The 4.5-star smartwatch is an excellent buy for dedicated and enthusiast runners, thanks to its top-tier health tracking and GPS navigation features. You also get a clear AMOLED display with a scratch-resistant sapphire lens and titanium bezel. As far as premium smartwatches go, this one is tough to beat after such a big price cut.View Deal
Welcome to day one of Amazon's four-day Prime Day event. Day one always has the best and most exciting deals, so my team and I are looking forward to sharing our favorite offers throughout the day.
Something to keep in mind while shopping today's sale is that the hottest offers will sell out before the sale is over. Our advice is: if you see a record-low price on an item you want, add it to your cart and check out now before it's too late.
The best-selling Fire TV Stick 4K for only $25
(Image credit: Future)
I'm kicking off today's live blog with a Prime Day classic: Amazon's best-selling Fire TV Stick 4K is down to $24.99 — that's a whopping 50% discount.
This more powerful version of the Fire TV Stick streams shows and movies in ultra-high-definition 4K resolution, offers access to all major apps, boasts speedy performance and a more reliable Wi-Fi connection, as well as support for voice controls through Alexa.
The latest Apple Watch 11 just keeps getting cheaper. It was already at its lowest price ever at the end of last week, but now dropped by another $20 for Prime Day. This new record-low makes it a great time to buy Apple's best and latest wearable, with great upgrades to battery life, display, and watchOS features.
I've had my eye on the Blink Mini 2 since its release, and now that it's on sale for a record-low price of $13, how could I (or anyone, for that matter) say no?
The compact security camera features two-way audio and will alert your phone when motion is detected. The Blink 2 also features a 1080p HD live view, color night vision with a built-in spotlight, and a wider field of view.
My smart alarm clock is on sale for its lowest price yet
(Image credit: Amazon)
I purchased Amazon's Echo Spot (a smart alarm clock and speaker) during last year's Prime Day sale, and now it's back down to its record-low price.
The Echo Spot pairs a 2.83-inch touchscreen with a 1.73-inch front-firing speaker, making it an ideal smart alarm clock. With Alexa onboard, you can ask the assistant for the weather, play music, or even schedule alarms.
One of Garmin's premium running watches is 50% off
(Image credit: Future / Garmin / Edited with Gemini)
In the eyes of our fitness editor, Matt Evans, some of the best running watches are made by Garmin. And this premium epix Pro (Gen 2) is a top choice — one that he even ran a marathon while using. It's older now, sure, but it's a whopping 50% off for Prime Day, making it a fantastic time to buy for its accurate tracking features, impressive battery life, and rugged design.
Here are some of the best noise-canceling headphones you can buy
(Image credit: Future)
Bose makes some of the best noise-canceling headphones you can buy, so I'm always going to shout out any deals on the manufacturer's top-rated cans. Like these Bose QuietComfort Headphones, which are now down to a record-low price for Prime Day. Excellent sound quality, top-tier sound blocking and a comfortable fit all for under $200? What more do you need?
Hi folks — Matt Bolton, Managing Editor of Home Tech, taking over for a while. I lead our teams covering TVs, audio, small appliances and smart home, so I'll be dropping some personal recommendations from our experts in those areas.
AirPods 3 are a steal right now
(Image credit: Future)
I personally use AirPods Pro 3 as my 'daily driver' earbuds — I'm wearing them right now! — and I'd very strongly recommend them to Apple users at this price. The noise cancellation is amazing, the fit is very secure and comfortable, I love how slimline the case is, and they sound great.
I'm personally a huge advocate of their 'unloseable' case, which has multiple ways for you to find it when it's misplaced. You can use UWB tech to have your iPhone literally point you towards it if you're nearby, you can make the case emit a sound, and Apple's Find My network can help you locate it if you lose it away from home.
Let's stick with AirPods for a moment, to discuss the fact that AirPods Max 2 have hit a super-low price of $399. Given how fantastic they sound, and how many smart features they have, this is an excellent price.
The Sony WH-1000XM5 have hit their lowest-ever price, dropping to just $198. This is the first time we've seen them for under $200, so you're getting superb value here. Great noise cancellation, smart ambient modes, a super-comfortable fit, stylish looks, and rich and detailed sound.
We've rated the Nothing Ear (a) as the best budget earbuds since their release, and you can now get them for just $53 — basically half their original cost. They are unbelievably good for that price, delivering really lively and engaging sound, impressive active noise cancellation, and very cool and comfortable design, and a bunch of useful smart features via the app.
Decided you want an excellent new TV to follow the US team's ongoing success at the World Cup? This 65-inch OLED from Samsung earned five stars in our review, if you buy it in this exact size — that's because it uses a fantastic QD-OLED panel, mixing the perfect contrast of OLED with the color richness of quantum dots. It's really bright for daytime viewing, it handles detail and motion excellently for sport, and it's really well-equipped for features. For this price, it's a truly impressive TV.
Speaking of upgrading your TV for the World Cup, some people are really going for giant sizes as the driving factor in what they choose — and it's amazing that you can now get 100-inch TV for totally reasonable prices. Take the TCL 98QM64L — a 98-inch TV for under $1,800. It has mini-LED tech so you actually get decent brightness and colors at the size. But let's face it, scale and awe is the main draw here, and you're getting tons of that.
The PC hardware market has been dominated by the RAM crisis in 2026, with prices for components reaching absurd levels, particularly (and unsurprisingly) memory kits. Without an affordable way to buy RAM for new PC builds, there's not much that can be done outside of playing the waiting game or overspending.
It's also the same story for GPUs; VRAM is a vital part of graphics cards and their functionality, especially with new games demanding more VRAM to allow users to play games at their desired graphics settings — and that means prices for GPUs, especially Nvidia's GeForce RTX 5000 series lineup, have also skyrocketed.
It's not impossible to find pre-built systems that are fairly affordable this summer, but it won't be easy, especially if you're looking at acquiring anything equipped with an RTX 5070 and beyond.
It also doesn't help that Microsoft's Windows 11 and certain applications can hog RAM, which isn't so bad for systems with 16GB or 32GB of system memory, but it's not the same case with systems using 8GB.
(Image credit: MSI)
Equipped with an RTX 5050, an Intel Core 7 240H processor, and 16GB of RAM, the MSI Cyborg 15 B2RW is a great fit for anyone intent on gaming at a 1080p resolution. With the help of DLSS 4.5, performance and visual quality shouldn't be a major concern.View Deal
The MSI Cyborg 15 RTX 4050 AI A1VE gaming laptop is one of the best and most affordable options for any gamer looking for an entry-level system this Prime Day. Users have the advantage of DLSS 4.5, including its Frame Generation capabilities, and both the RTX 4050 and Intel Core Ultra 7 155H GPU and processor, respectively, capable of good game performance at 1080p.View Deal
The MSI Thin 15 RTX 4050 B13VE might be the most affordable gaming laptop anyone will come across during Prime Day. This is an entry-level gaming laptop, around the same price as a modern handheld such as Valve's Steam Deck, with much better performance using Nvidia's RTX 4050 GPU.View Deal
Fortunately, some of MSI's Nvidia-powered gaming laptops are on sale thanks to Amazon Prime Day, and there are big and generous savings involved, considering the state of the PC hardware market.
In the UK, the MSI Cyborg 15 RTX 5050 B2RW is now available on Amazon for £849.99 (was £1,399), with a huge 39% discount, making it one of the most affordable options this Prime Day. The RTX 5050 isn't exactly the best Nvidia GPU available, but for 1080p gaming with the help of DLSS 4.5, it's enough to handle multiple triple-A games with ease.
Last but not least, the MSI Thin 15 is now available on Amazon for £749.99 (was £829), with a smaller 10% discount, but it is the most affordable option on the list. The sale price is around the same ballpark as the AMD Radeon RX 9070 XT GPU, which would be relevant for a desktop system upgrade.
The biggest takeaway is that all of these gaming laptops on sale feature at least 16GB of RAM despite the ongoing crisis, which is the minimum amount of system RAM required for most modern triple-A games. While this isn't the case with VRAM (the RTX 5050 has 8GB), DLSS should help provide improved performance where necessary.
A Reddit user has created a touch-sensitive mouse mat with built-in buttons
The Kage GhostPad device can be programmed with different functions
It will enter crowdfunding soon, but already looks to be expensive
Over the years, there have been various devices that put quick computing controls at your fingertips — think the Elgato Stream Deck, for example, or standalone numpads built for your keyboard. But all of these things take up space on your desk, quickly making it crowded and cluttered. Now, though, one enterprising PC user thinks they’ve come up with a solution.
Posting on Reddit, user cmajmus revealed a mouse mat they’ve apparently been working on for the last two years. Dubbed the Kage GhostPad, this isn’t just any old desk pad — this one is equipped with 16 touch-sensitive buttons that put quick PC controls at your fingertips.
The buttons are built into the pad and sit under its surface, something cmajmus says means there are “No buttons, no bumps.” Once you press one of the active zones, “it triggers whatever you’ve mapped to it: keyboard shortcuts, macros, media keys, MIDI notes, gamepad inputs, even launching apps,” the creator says.
You can customize what each button does using a browser-based companion app once the desk pad is plugged into your PC using a USB cable. You’ll be able to drag and drop functions onto each zone, set pressure thresholds, add custom icons, and more.
And on the side, you’ll find a detachable LCD module that shows the device’s active mode, assigned shortcuts and any status indicators, helping you see what the GhostPad is up to at a glance. And you can “divide the surface into programmable zones,” cmajmus states, each with its own set of controls that can be switched between as needed.
Convenience at a cost
(Image credit: Kage)
The GhostPad’s creator explained that they were motivated to create it due to “frustration with having a Stream Deck, macro pad, MIDI controller and numpad all eating desk space.” They then added: “I wanted one thing that does all of it and disappears visually.”
Some Reddit users were curious about how the product prevents accidental touches, such as if you bump your hand against the mat or place an object on its surface. To this, cmajmus said that you can “turn off some zones if your keyboard overlaps” while also claiming that you can “have 0.5L of beer on it” without triggering any of the buttons.
If you don’t like how the GhostPad looks — or if it becomes worn down over time — you can swap out the top surface with a variety of different visual options. And while the pad isn’t machine washable, the creator says it is water resistant and can be washed using gentler methods.
Reaction seems to have been positive on Reddit. User Jfaun said it was “one of those things I see and am shocked it doesn’t already exist and I never thought of it myself", while another called it "ridiculously cool". XLB135, meanwhile, opined: “As a minimalist with literally nothing on my desk other than a phone stand and a small bamboo box of notecards, this is very appealing to me.”
The GhostPad’s creator revealed in a different Reddit thread that the product will begin crowdfunding in a “few months.” You can also pre-order the device on its website, with “early bird” pricing set at €129 (about $147 / £111 GBP / $211 AUD).
That makes it very pricey for a mouse mat, but if you think it could save you money on accessories like a Stream Deck (not to mention the desk space), you might feel it’s worth it.
Fans have seemingly discovered an easter egg referencing Vice City's Tommy Vercetti
A Marvel's Wolverine actor has also reportedly been cast in the game
Ahead of the game's pre-order availability this week, new Grand Theft Auto 6 details have been discovered, including a new cast member and a strange easter egg that could have a connection to another GTA game.
First, let's talk about the easter egg, which was spotted in the game's second trailer by TheGameVerse (via IGN) following some deep analysis of every single frame.
While the trailer was posted over a year ago, the split-second nod was easily missed. But if you pause at the 33-second mark, you can spot it.
As protagonist Jason Duvall backhands a store clerk, just behind his head, you can see a lizard wall ornament that appears to be wearing a blue floral shirt. Upon closer inspection, it's believed to be the same shirt worn by fan-favoriteVice City character Tommy Vercetti.
Not a huge easter egg if it was Rockstar's intention, but the game is sure to feature many more nods to the wider GTA franchise.
The second detail comes courtesy of IGN and seems to confirm that actor Brett Gipson, who plays Sabretooth in Marvel's Wolverine, has joined the cast of GTA 6.
The actor recently updated his resume, stating that he will play a character named Ellis, but there's no information on his role in the game.
The cast of GTA 6 has been kept pretty under wraps since its announcement, and we still don't know who will be playing co-protagonists, Jason and Lucia.
If you have tried to buy one of the best portable SSDs recently, you have likely noticed a painful reality: storing photos and videos has become an incredibly expensive business. Over the past year, flash memory prices have skyrocketed, with some popular portable SSDs doubling or even tripling in cost. For photographers and videographers, who routinely generate many gigabytes of data on a single shoot, this price hike has turned a standard administrative task into a massive financial headache.
The underlying problem is a classic case of demand exceeding supply, which has unfortunately triggered a knock-on effect on pricesacross the entire industry. As high-speed Solid State Drives (SSD) became more costly and harder to source, creators naturally looked for alternatives, driving up the prices of traditional mechanical hard drives (HDDs) in the process. When you couple expensive backup drives with modern cameras that churn out massive file sizes, ignoring your storage workflow is no longer an option. Desperate times call for desperate measures, and it is time to change how we manage our data.
Fortunately, you don't need to empty your bank account to keep your portfolio safe. Surviving this storage crunch is not about buying the biggest, fastest drive on the market - it's about working smarter with the tools you already have. By adopting a strict digital diet, separating your fast working drives from your slower archival backups, and rethinking your camera settings before you fire the shutter, you can reduce your storage footprint without sacrificing your creative freedom.
In this guide, I share the exact strategies I use to navigate these rising costs. From sourcing high-capacity secondhand bargains safely to exploiting hidden compression settings in a camera's built-in menus. I cover why changing your shooting habits can save you terabytes of space in the long run, how to avoid the hidden costs of a hardware upgrade, and how to build a rock-solid backup system on a budget. And if you absolutely must buy new hardware, I've also rounded up the best flash storage deals available right now, so you can expand your setup for less.
1. Use HDDs for back ups
HDD drives, also called mechanical Hard Disk Drives, use a spinning disk inside of the hard drive enclosure to store files. Because there’s a disk with a needle, a little bit like a vinyl player, it takes longer to locate and find your files and also write data to HDDs. Flash storage, such as the SSDs which we’ve seen explode in value over the past year, work much in the same way as your camera’s memory card and can locate files instantly and write much faster – but that comes with a higher price tag.
To keep costs down, the trick is to keep all of your archived content and finished projects on the more affordable HDDs as soon as you can. SDDs are great for working on live projects due to their speed, reliability and portability. You can use one of the best portable SSD drives or the flash hard drive on your laptop, so you’re not limited by the speed of an HDD when you’re working on live projects.
With SSDs going up in price this has had a knock on effect with the price of the best HDD drives being pushed up too. I’ve actually been buying up cheap second hand HDD drives from Facebook Marketplace where I can get much more gigabytes for my dollar. I must stress second-hand drives are a risky business and I always check them with a drive health checker first too, such as CrystalDiskInfo. I only use HDDs for backing up files, so if my second-hand drives ever fail, I at least have another copy somewhere else.
2. Cull your photos
In years gone by I would say there’s not a lot of point going through drives and deleting your ‘duff’ shots or video. However, because we’ve seen some storage drives double, or even triple in price in just the past 12 months alone, desperate times call for desperate measures.
Currently, when I import a batch of photos I think carefully whether I really want to take up valuable space on my hard drives with shots that are never going to see the light of day. This has helped me be more self critical of my work, and motivated me to absolutely nail compositions, focus and exposure settings every time I'm out shooting.
Once a project has been delivered I might even go as far as to go through and delete images that were sub-par and didn’t make the grade. It’s also worth using a disk analyser tool such as WizTree to locate big files that are taking up a lot of hard drive space and aren’t being used so you can erase any large memory hogs.
Once your project is finished be sure to transfer the files from your pricey SSD to your cheaper HDD, to free up space for your next project. This saves you from having to buy a new expensive SSD drive when it gets full. Modern SSDs are incredibly durable and can withstand hundreds of terabytes of data being written over their lifespan, so there is no problem formatting them after you’ve transferred the contents to an HDD and backed them up properly.
(Image credit: Samsung / Amazon)
3. Choose the right format
The more detailed and information-packed your files are, the larger they will be. So it’s more important now than ever to carefully assess whether you should shoot a scene in RAW or compressed JPEG. The same goes for recording video too, do you really need 8K or the highest possible bit rates, or is that overkill?
I often shoot in 4K which gets downsampled to 1080p for a lot of my social media content. While shooting 4K provides extra editing options (especially cropping), it is quite a wasteful way of working. You could also switch from the H.264 codec to H.265 which compresses 4K to half the size, with no visible loss in quality.
If you’re shooting on a compact camera with built-in picture styles such as the Fujifilm X100VI then it may be preferable to shoot in JPEG to make full use of its various film effects. If you’re shooting a lot of RAW files with pre-capture then you may want to consider switching from RAW to a compressed RAW format to save space, instead. It all depends on your style of photography and finding out the compromize that works for you.
4. Think twice before upgrading your camera
Before you jump into buying a new camera body you should also carefully assess the costs here, too. I’ve been lucky enough to get hands-on with the new Sony A7R VI, which produces mammoth 67MP files, at rates of up to 30 fps. This means memory cards and hard drives fill much more quickly than a camera with say 30MP, usually considered to be the ‘sweet spot’ for most general subjects.
Many of today's pro cameras need pricier CFexpress type memory cards to unlock their full performance potential and avoid any bottlenecks to the memory buffer, rather than cheap and cheerful SD cards. So even if you find a deal you're happy with for a new camera, there are hidden costs such as these pricier memory card types.
Another hidden cost of upgrading to a super high resolution camera is that your computer may struggle with the large stills and video. If that’s the case then you’re now not only forking out for a new camera, pricey CFexpress cards and hard drive storage, but you'll also need to budget for a new high-end laptop or computer that's capable of handing all of that data! The costs can rack up rather quickly.
Sure, the A7 RVI is a top camera, but do you need its high-resolution sensor and memory-hungry 30fps burst shooting? (Image credit: Tim Coleman)
5. Make use of free cloud storage
I always follow the 3-2-1 method for a secure and robust way of backing up my files; that's backing up three times on at least two different types of media, with one copy kept off site.
For different types of media, this could be one HDD drive and another an SSD, or a DVD, memory stick or even cloud storage. The latter also helps tick the box for keeping one copy of your data off-site, too.
Cloud storage from reputable companies such as Backblaze is of course a great option, but you do have to pay a monthly subscription. For working professionals this is a solid reliable option worth the money.
However, for more casual photographers I’d recommend making full use of free cloud storage from companies like Google Drive (15GB), Microsoft OneDrive (5GB) and Apple iCloud (5GB). Of course, this isn’t a huge amount of free cloud storage, though if you're clever you can 'pool' your free storage together from different companies and it can add up to something substantial. That being said, even the 5GB free options should be more than enough to store backups of your favorite JPEG photos.
Save money today on the best portable SSD deals
Portable SSD deals are hard to come by right now, but I've included the best deals I've found at the time of writing, with discounts on tried and tested Samsung and SanDisk models.
Today's best portable SSD deal (US)
The Samsung T7 is a reliable SSD that I've been using for years. These drives come in a stylish metal case, typically available in different colors, making it easy to tell the difference between them. It has super fast transfer speeds of up to 1,050MB/s and features USB 3.2 Gen 2 with USB-C functionality, too. This deal is for the 1TB version. View Deal
Today's best portable SSD deal (UK)
This reliable drive from Sandisk won a Red Dot product design award in 2021 and is IP65 rated for dust and water resistance so you can rest assured your data is protected. This Prime Day deal gives you a saving of 13% and it comes with 256-bit AES hardware encryption and password protection to give you a little extra peace of mind.View Deal
Nothing has just revealed its biggest Phone (4b) teaser yet
It's a lower-end alternative to the Nothing Phone (4a), which makes us wonder whether it was originally planned to be a CMF model
It'll be announced on July 7
Something strange is going on at Nothing — just a few days ago the company announced that there wouldn’t be any new CMF phones this year, but now it’s back with a teaser for the first in a new line of phones, dubbed the Nothing Phone (4b). And there are reasons to think this is the CMF Phone 3 Pro in all but name.
The main teaser for the Nothing Phone (4b) comes from Nothing’s official X account and includes sketches of various possible designs, thereby not actually giving much away. But it also says that we’ll learn more on July 7 at 11am BST, which is 3am PT / 6am ET / 8pm AEST.
We do know a bit more already though, as Nothing’s co-founder Akis Evangelidis has explained on X that “the B Series builds on the success of the A Series by expanding into a new segment, while maintaining a clear product hierarchy.”
More tellingly, they added that “the A Series remains our most premium line below our flagship products, which doesn't carry a letter designation.” That’s a roundabout way of saying that the Nothing Phone (4b) will be lower end than the Nothing Phone (4a), and you know what else would have been lower end? The canceled CMF Phone 3 Pro.
Phone (4b).Kept sketching the Phone (4a) series and accidentally made a new phone.7 July, 11:00 BST. pic.twitter.com/kQjb76174hJune 23, 2026
A CMF phone at a higher price?
So why would Nothing repackage the CMF Phone 3 Pro as the Phone (4b)? Well, Nothing has stated that we won’t see any new CMF phones this year thanks to the ongoing RAM crisis, which has meant that “we can't build a phone that feels like a genuine step forward at a price that makes sense for CMF.”
What they might be able to do though is sell that phone at a price that makes sense for the more premium Nothing brand. So in other words there’s a chance this is the CMF Phone 3 Pro, just at a higher price than Nothing could get away with while using CMF branding.
Of course, that’s just speculation. It’s entirely possible that along with the budget CMF Phone 3 Pro, Nothing was also working on the budget Phone (4a), and that it just happened to tease the latter mere days after canceling the former. But the timing does seem odd.
We’ll probably never know for sure whether this was originally designed as a CMF model or not, but we should at least learn more about the specs, features, and perhaps pricing of this phone very soon.
It's pretty tough being a gamer on a budget these days, as evidenced by the Steam Machine's rather exorbitant price tag. RAM prices have massively shot up in recent months, and subsequently, it's almost impossible to find a decent budget gaming machine.
Not all is completely lost, however. I've been browsing through Amazon's massive Prime Day sale today, and I've found three Acer Nitro gaming laptops that are actually - dare I say - good value.
They start with this RTX 5050-equipped model for £679 (was £849), which is a very decent option indeed if you're really on a budget. The RTX 5050 graphics card in this machine is very much an entry-level component, but it's up-to-date and enough to get you started if you're willing to tweak a few settings on demanding games.
For something a little higher-end, you could consider this RTX 5060 configuration for £799 (was £986), which again, is an amazing choice if you're not looking to spend too much. It's essentially the same as the RTX 5050 version above, but you get a slightly better graphics card and a bigger 1TB storage drive, which is a pretty significant upgrade.
Finally, if you're really looking to get something powerful, then consider the RTX 5070 configuration for £1,299 (was £1,499). The price jump is significant here, but this machine features a much better graphics card, a Ryzen 9 chipset, and 32GB of RAM, which are all higher-grade components. It's almost overkill having these specs for this machine's native 1080p display, but the RTX 5070 will be great for powering external monitors if you're planning on doing that.
It's a rare thing these days to see a gaming laptop for under £700, and better yet, this Acer Nitro V15 actually features a recent RTX 5050 graphics card. If you're looking for the basics, then this machine is definitely going to cover you well for a great price. The RTX 5050, in combination with the Core i7 chipset, is going to play all the latest games - and should do well, granted you're willing to tweak a few settings here and there on the most demanding titles.View Deal
This mid-range RTX 5060 configuration is really hitting that sweet spot in terms of bang for the buck, in my opinion. The chipset is a little on the older side, and you're only getting 16GB of RAM, but I still think this one is a real bargain for £799. If you're just looking to play all the latest games smoothly at 1080p, then this particular listing is definitely worth considering. Getting a more spacious 1TB SSD is also a meaningful upgrade.View Deal
Wow, it's been a while since I've seen an RTX 5070 gaming laptop with 32GB of RAM hit this kind of price. The Acer Nitro V15 is still a relatively budget machine, but in terms of specs, this higher-end configuration really ticks all the boxes today. You get a great GPU, an up-to-date chipset, and 32GB of RAM right out of the box. View Deal
If you're interested in knowing more about the Acer Nitro V15, you can check out TechRadar's review on this very model. We tested the mid-range RTX 5060 configuration specifically and found it to be a good performer for the money. It's not a high-end machine by any stretch, but it does offer good value.
Note, as with most Prime Day deals today, these above listings are exclusive to Amazon Prime members only. If you're not a member, however, don't fret - you can simply use the 30-day free trial that I've linked just below to gain access.
Amazon Prime: 30-day free trial If you've never signed up before, you can get a 30-day free trial of Amazon Prime to get access to this year's Prime Day deals. You get the same benefits as paid members, including free delivery, and access to other services such as Prime Video, Prime Music, Prime Gaming and more. You can cancel at any time during the trial to avoid paying the regular fee, which is $14.99 / £8.99 per month.
Look, I love my Xbox Series X, but if I were buying one console thisAmazon Prime Day, it would undoubtedly be a PlayStation 5. The price of the Series X console is frankly ridiculous right now, going for upwards of £499.99.
The PS5 Slim, in contrast, has had its price slashed to just £479.99 (was £569.99), handily undercutting Microsoft.
Yes, the Series X is technically more powerful, but the PS5 benefits from what is, in my eyes, a much more exciting controller, and a library of brilliant console exclusives including Ghost of Yotei and Marvel's Spider-Man 2. With most of the big Xbox franchises going multi-platform, the choice is clear.
Today's best PS5 deal
A chunky discount on the PS5 Slim here, with 1TB storage and the disc reader attachment included out of the box. This discount takes its price well below the current going rate of the Xbox Series X, making it my top pick for a console right now.View Deal
If you're truly wedded to the Xbox ecosystem, the Xbox Series S is definitely the better value of the two right now thanks to this modest discount. It's much less powerful than the PS5, with half the internal storage, but it is substantially cheaper, so worthy of consideration.View Deal
Prime Day is underway, and while there are massive discounts on top desks, laptops, office chairs, and smart tech, sometimes the best way to boost productivity is through simple, small tweaks to your existing setup that help to organize your workspace.
I’ve gone through dozens of gadgets from Amazon to build my curated list for Amazon Prime Day with great little gems from as little as $1.87. If you're upgrading your workspace and really don't want to spend too much, these are the top deals I recommend buying in the sales.
I've covered everything from monitor risers to phone holders, all with a view to keeping your home office more productive and practical. For more savings, we've tracking the best Prime Day home office deals and Prime Day tech deals in real-time throughout the event, so you'll always get the biggest discounts.
Affordable smart gadgets for your desk
I used to have one of these, an adjustable laptop stand, one which served me well for quite a few years. The important thing to remember is that it is not advisable to use it on your lap or to type on your laptop while it is perched on one of these - which is why quite a few users leave negative feedback. Ideally you want to leave your laptop on it undisturbed and connect either using a cable or wirelessly (via Bluetooth). An absolute no-brainer must-have for any home office setup.
What customers said: “Awesome value for the price. Supports the laptop really well. Folds up for easy travel. Great product.”View Deal
This clever wall power outlet has a removable shelf under which you will find a whopping nine ports: six AC outlets arranged (in such a way not to be in the way of anyone) and three USB ports. There is also a surge protector plus notches to prevent cords from moving. It is compatible with standard and decor outlets, just remember that the tray can probably accommodate a small phone at most.
What customers said: “Good design and placement of plugs. It could be just a tad sturdier, but it does the job.”View Deal
If you want to lift the back of your laptop by an inch or so, whether to improve ventilation or to adjust your typing angle, consider these invisible laptop risers that stick to the back of your laptop and can be deployed when in use. Just as the laptop stand above, you cannot use them on an uneven surface (e.g. your lap) but it works great on a flat surface like a table.
What customers said: “It is very non intrusive and it allows ample airflow for proper cooling. The double sided tape is good and keeps it secured.”View Deal
I’ve always fancied one of these retro-looking, vintage Bluetooth speakers disguised as a 1940’s radio, complete with PU leather strap and a working rotary button. I love the color scheme as well Inside though, it is a pretty modern device with AUX and TF card reader, Bluetooth connectivity and up to five hours battery life. You can even plug in a USB flash drive and the speaker is a 4.5W model.
What customers said: “This is a lot smaller than what I expected however, it is really cute. It is a lot louder than expected too. Sound quality is good.”View Deal
If like me you want to have some storage space under your desk without having to resort to (a) buying a separate piece of furniture (b) taking our your drill or (c) coming up with something against which your legs may but, then consider these. Amazon sells a pair of under desk drawers for less than $10. They’re reasonably spacious and shallow enough to be placed under the desk without coming in the way of your office chair arms for example.
What customers said: “Works as advertised. Great way to store extra little things. Easy to access and place where ever you need them!”View Deal
This is essentially a very long arm to hold your smartphone and I can think of a few scenarios where that coud be handy. It has a clamp that can be attached to a desk and videos show that it barely sags. It should be fine for video conferencing or watching a webinar, not much for writing an email or replying to a Slack message.
What customers said: “It holds your phone securely, and can hold on to many surfaces fairly well, but as it is a bendable arm, the phone will bounce around severely if you start touching it.”View Deal
I love the spirit behind the design of this organizer. You can store documents vertically and horizontally as well with up to four tiers. The vendor says that it can hold up to 40 pounds without bending or collapsing and its mesh construction gives it a very modern look. It doesn’t have a pen holder - but at this price, I can forgive this shortcoming.
What customers said: “I love the color! It was easy to assemble. Did it while I was at my desk. The color is perfect and so far it seems strong”View Deal
I’ve broken my own rule because this is such a good deal. I have one of those (albeit a bigger one) and I can’t believe how cheap these are on Amazon right now. That stand is essentially a tempered glass tray perched on four stainless steel legs that can rise or drop using screwed feet. It can support up to 44 pounds (20Kg). It’s very easy to assemble and looks very classy once in use.
What customers said: “This is perfect for my work space. I wanted a very minimalist glass look, and it’s also sturdy enough to hold my wide-screen monitor.”View Deal
I used to put my feet on boxes when working at a desk but I might just buy one of these rocking ergonomic footstools. They come will an integrated roller massage which, the manufacturer claims, promotes leg circulation. How suited is it for you will depend a lot on how big (or small) your feet are. For just under $10, this could be a great investment for your posture and general well being.
What customers said: If your feet could talk, they’d say, “Get this footrest now. Your future self will thank you.”View Deal
According to Entertainment Weekly, the movie will be an origin story for Delta Squad
This does mean that the game's protagonist, Marcus Fenix, may not appear in the Netflix adaptation
Gears of War is headed to Netflix, and we finally have some confirmed plot details about the new movie adaptation.
According to reports from Entertainment Weekly, the Netflix Gears of War movie will be an origin story for Delta Squad, the main infantry team in the original video game series.
Entertainment Weekly revealed that the official logline for the movie is simply: "The origin story of Delta Squad, a ragtag crew of soldiers who wage a desperate war for survival against the Locust, a race of subterranean creatures set on destroying humanity."
Speaking about the movie, Matt Booty, Xbox's executive vice president and chief content officer, told the site: “The game really is about the bonds between teams. It's about brotherhood at its core.
"When you go visit the studio, their tagline is ‘Never Fight Alone.’ So when you think about that for a dramatic narrative, it's a pretty good starting point.”
Will Gears of War feature Marcus Fenix?
Considering Marcus Fenix is the protagonist of the first three games in the Gears of War video game series, many of us are wondering if he will show up in Netflix's Gears of War movie.
It's too early to say for now, as we don't have casting confirmation for the project, so we can't confirm which characters will appear. But if Marcus is absent and the plot focuses wholly on life before him, this may come as a disappointment for fans.
We can't accurately pinpoint how Netflix's Gears of War will fit into the franchise's timeline until more information is released. If it focuses more on the first game, then we might see Marcus after all.
If it doesn't, then this is certainly not the first time a video game adaptation has moved away from the original protagonists. Recently, Prime Video's Fallout chose not to focus on the Lone Wanderer or The Courier, and Zach Cregger's Resident Evilhas a brand-new leading character too.
We will just have to wait patiently to see how Gears of War plays out on Netflix.
A memory expert has predicted big RAM price hikes this year
They say we could see hikes of 40% to 50% in Q3, and further 30% to 40% rises in Q4
They predict that 2027 is also going to be painful, with a 40% to 45% increase year-on-year
There's more fuel to the fire for the theory that the RAM crisis is going to get worse, and a lot worse going by this latest forecast — though I'd take it with some seasoning.
Wccftech spotted that Jukan on X highlighted a report from Jefferies, an investment banking firm that has been talking to an analyst in the world of memory who made these bleak predictions.
They include the expectation that memory pricing will increase in a big way as 2026 rolls onwards — we're talking a 40% to 50% hike in Q3 (compared to this quarter) and a further 30% to 40% rise in the last quarter of 2026.
Price hikes are "likely" to continue through 2027, the expert believes, with potentially a 40% to 45% increase year-on-year, which would leave RAM prices at a staggering level come the close of next year.
Only then will we get an easing of pricing in 2028, with memory prices potentially falling by up to 20% due to a combination of slowing demand and more production capacity coming online (with investment in the latter that's underway now finally coming to fruition).
Elsewhere on X, P Equity Research shares more of the Jefferies report, which underlines how cloud giants are apparently locking down 50% of total memory production (potentially rising to 70%), signing long-term contracts requiring massive (40%) prepayments. Due to this, consumer electronics makers are facing "severe pressure" and even leaner memory supply going into next year.
Analysis: running the doom gauntlet
(Image credit: Ollyy / Shutterstock)
This is the most doom-laden RAM industry prediction I've seen in some time, and there have been a few of those recently. In the order of 40% and then 30% price increases (at minimum) over the next two quarters would be a shocker — bordering on unthinkable.
Other forecasts are calling price rises, too, but not to this extent. As Wccftech points out, another investment research firm, Aletheia Capital, predicts rises of 30% and perhaps up to 15% in Q3 and Q4 respectively, and Jukan on X points to a current consensus of 20% then 30% hikes respectively.
Granted, that doesn't look good either, but the view of the expert that Jefferies spoke to feels rather alarmist in comparison. I've said it before, and I'll say it again: in the consumer world, there's only so much price hiking that people will stand for before they just close their wallets and buying activity starts drying up to a large extent (save for absolutely essential purchases). How much higher can RAM prices go, frankly, before we see those kinds of hardened consumer attitudes coming into play? Not a lot higher, I'd argue.
Although granted, it seems like the talk of price hikes easing off sooner rather than later is now being completely drowned out by the RAM pessimists. The expert who spoke to Jefferies also observes that Chinese memory chip makers won't come to the rescue to help correct RAM supply outside of Asia in the foreseeable future (meaning this year or next) either, a view we've heard echoed elsewhere, and one that (sadly) makes sense.
Meanwhile, following fallbacks to DDR3 memory in the past, we're also seeing that even ancient DDR2 RAM is having a resurgence in popularity in some scenarios, with prices for that memory shooting up as a result according to TrendForce.
As The Verge reports, Valve also just underlined how hard it is to buy RAM at anything approaching a reasonable price – with no room for negotiation whatsoever with memory suppliers, which impacted the cost of the Steam Machine (as predicted).
So yes, everything seems to be backing up the recent cloud of gloom cast on the PC industry by Nvidia's CEO, Jensen Huang, who observed that the RAM crisis will be around for "quite a few years", hinting that it's a demon we'll have to live with for the rest of the decade, pretty much.
Yet I still think this latest report goes a step too far with the doom mongering, and that consumers will simply vote not to open their wallets at all (in the main) at some point in the not-so-far-off future. It is, however, clear enough that more misery is coming in some form as 2026 rolls on, so we'll have to batten down the hatches for now and see how bad the storm gets.
Meantime, if you are in the market for certain components — certainly a new laptop or MacBook — I'd suggest you make a move before too long, as I discussed at length last weekend.
I'm a PC gamer at heart, but this past weekend I've been playing a lot of console games with my daughter — but not on a console you might expect.
Despite being tempted to buy a PS5 now that its first party games are no longer coming to PC, and knowing how kid-friendly the Nintendo Switch 2 is, neither of those consoles are what captured the attention of me and my daughter; instead it was the humble Nex Playground, a cute cube-like console that eschews traditional controllers for tracking your body.
The reason for my surprise is that I wasn't entirely sold on the idea. Microsoft's attempt at something similar with its Kinect camera was a disappointment, and I'd never heard about the Nex Playground before last year, when it made headlines after outselling the Xbox.
The console itself is compact and very cute-looking, with a built-in camera (and privacy lid). Setting it up was easy, and it was clever enough to not need a lot of calibration (which has often killed my interest in VR headsets). It also adapted well to me placing it on a shelf within my TV stand, rather than directly beneath the TV.
Bundle of joy
The Nex Playground comes with five games, so you can start playing right away, including Fruit Ninja and Whack A Mole Deluxe, which my daughter loved to watch me play.
While those five games are a good taster for what the Nex Playground can do, you'll likely soon be looking at other things to play. Unlike other consoles, the Nex Playground doesn't let you buy individual games — instead, there's the Play Pass subscription, which gives you access to a large and growing list of titles (over 50 at the time of writing). While I prefer buying games individually, rather than relying on a subscription, this does give you a good way to quickly try and play a large variety.
Gabby's Doll House A-Meaow-zing-Moves, and Care Bears Rainbow Ride caught my daughter's eye first, as they are based on TV shows she loves, and other big names such as Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Bluey, and How to Train Your Dragon have Nex Playground games too. The quality varies — some are new, bespoke apps made especially for the console, while others feel like glorified phone games. Care Bears Rainbow Ride, for example, felt rather janky, and I doubt we'll be playing that again.
Bowling Strike! was a hit, however, and reminded me of the glory years of the Nintendo Wii. My daughter also loved getting me to dance (badly) with Barbie Dance Party.
The biggest hit, however, was Mirrorama, which isn't a game per se, but applies some fun filters to the footage the Nex Playground captures of you. My daughter was really taken with this, and I had a lot of fun as well. We've still got a lot of games to try out, but so far, I've been impressed with how well it all works (and my daughter has had a lot of fun).
As a parent, it also feels safe — there are no online games (though you do need an internet connection to download them initially); no in-game purchases, lootboxes or adverts; and the games themselves are all appropriate for kids. All motion-tracking is done on device, and it's kidSAFE+ COPPA compliant as well.
It's great how active it is as well, as you really need to throw your entire body into a lot of the games (though at the moment it's mostly me that's working up a sweat thanks to Barbie Dance Party).
Now is a particularly good time to get the Nex Playground, as Amazon, Best Buy, and Walmart have given the console a large 20% discount, now $239, down from $299.
If you have an Amazon Prime account and are already shopping around for Prime Day deals, you can also get an exclusive three-in-one bundle deal which includes the Nex Playground, Travel Case, and a 12-month Play Pass subscription for $330 (down from $412).
Today's best Nex Playground deals
Last year the Nex Playground console outsold the Xbox during Black Friday, and having now played it, I can see why — this cute little box uses its built-in camera to track movements rather than a standard gamepad, leading to fun and frantic gaming sessions for the whole family. With a 20% discount, it's now better value than ever.View Deal
Amazon also has an exclusive deal that cuts over $80 off the price of the Complete Family Gaming Bundle, which includes the console, travel case (great if the kids want to take the console to their friends' houses) and a 12-month subscription to Play Pass, giving you access to over 60 games.View Deal
While I found playing with the Nex Playground fun (if exhausting), the real joy for me was seeing how much fun my daughter was having with it. It certainly feels healthier and safer than her playing on a tablet or smartphone.
So, it's great timing that I've been raving about it to fellow parents just as it gets some major price cuts for Prime Day.
Five Eyes alliance warned frontier GenAI models will enable advanced cyberattacks against businesses and governments within months
Statement stressed cyber risk is now a leadership and business continuity issue, requiring whole‑of‑society response
Comes amid concerns over Anthropic’s Mythos Preview and other models already showing offensive potential despite guardrails
In just a few months, high-end Generative Artificial Intelligence models (GenAI) will be capable of running cyberattacks on big businesses and government organizations, Five Eyes is warning.
The Five Eyes is an intelligence-sharing alliance between the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. Formed after the Second World War, it allows the five countries to closely cooperate on intelligence and matters of national security.
Earlier this week, Five Eyes issued a new warning, saying that AI will help improve cyber defense over time, but will also accelerate the speed, scale, and sophistication, of threats: “Frontier AI models are anticipated to exceed current industry expectations, fundamentally transforming both offensive and defensive cyber capabilities. The timeline is not years, it is months,” the warning reads. “In this environment, cyber resilience is integral to advancing business continuity, market confidence, and long-term value.”
All hands on deck
Five Eyes is now saying that the industry needs all hands on deck to address what’s increasingly becoming a burning issue:
“A whole-of-organisation and whole-of-society response is required,” it said. “Cyber risk can no longer be treated as a purely technical issue. This is a core business risk and leadership responsibility.”
In early April, news broke that Anthropic’s latest AI model, Mythos Preview, was so good at exploiting software vulnerabilities, that the company could not release it to the public. Instead, it only shared it with a handful of US enterprises, to give them a head start against threat actors.
While skeptics said it was nothing more than a publicity stunt, similar to what OpenAI pulled off with ChatGPT 2.0, companies that used it (for example, Mozilla), confirmed that it was, indeed, powerful enough that it needs to be kept in check.
Even models available today, despite all the guardrails, are being regularly leveraged by bad actors in different cyberattack scenarios.
At least for us here in the UK, this year's Amazon Prime Day sale is coinciding with one of the hottest heatwaves on record, meaning an ice cream maker goes from a nice-to-have to an essential snack distribution system.
Thankfully, in my household, my trusty Ninja Creami is here to rescue me from overheating, and it's a mainstay on my countertop even outside of extreme weather warnings.
Right now, the Ninja Creami is on sale for $169 (was $219) at Amazon US, while over in the UK it's £199 (was £249) at Amazon. Neither deal is a record low for Ninja's once-viral ice cream machine (those are $129 and £149, respectively) but nonetheless represent decent $/£50 savings.
What I'm more interested in this year, however, are some of the alternatives that are more attractively designed and cheaper, to boot.
US Prime Day deals — ice cream makers
My holy grail, the Ninja Creami is still popular for a reason, and that's not just because it works well. It comes with detailed instructions, tips and tricks, offers seven different modes and includes a dishwasher-safe 16 oz mixing cup.View Deal
On the more aesthetically pleasing end of the spectrum, Black+Decker's dupe has seen a great 40% discount for Prime Day, bringing the price down to less than the Ninja Creami. It's functionally the same as the Ninja Creami and judging by the positive Amazon customer reviews, pretty performant, too. View Deal
UK Prime Day deals — ice cream makers
Ninja's Creami ice cream maker is a household favorite ice cream maker, having pretty much revolutionised the scene when it hit the market a few years ago. This isn't the best price we've seen, but it's a sizeable £50 saving nonetheless. View Deal
If you think this model looks pretty similar to the Black+Decker model above, you'd be exactly right; both brands operate under the same parent company. That means you get the same seven auto functions, the same dishwasher-safe tubs, and the same super cute design. It's not on sale in the UK right now, but it's still cheaper than the Ninja Creami above.View Deal
The Amazfit Active 2 got a whopping five stars in our review, because a watch this good simply shouldn't be this cheap. Now the Amazfit Active 2 Premium, which boasts a sapphire-glass screen and NFC payments in addition to the base Active 2's suite of health features, has received an Amazon Prime Day price cut in the US and the UK, and it's the perfect price point for anyone who's looking for a cheaper fitness tracker, and who's dissatisfied with the changes to the former Fitbit app as a result of its rebranding as Google Health.
You can save $20 on the price of this already cheap watch, making it an absolute steal. As well as reliable fitness tracking, a nice screen, stainless steel case and 10-day battery life and free map software (not even Garmin will give you that at this price), you get the Premium super-tough sapphire glass, NFC payments and a nicer strap.View Deal
In the UK there's a 20% discount on the Premium version. Amazfit's health and fitness suite includes free maps, heart rate, sleep data, workout profiles, GPS and lots more, and NFC allows you to load your cards into its digital wallet. At this price is really is a steal. View Deal
Not so with the Amazfit Active 2 Premium, which gives you a lot of great smartwatch features for comparatively little money. Those looking to move away from smartwatches like the Fitbit Sense or Versa ranges, or trackers like the Charge 6, will find the Active 2 Premium is now attractively priced, and offers a lot of great features.
The other recommendation I'm making this week is the Garmin Vivoactive 5, another smartwatch that, thanks to Amazon Prime Day discounts, is not excellent value. You can check out the best deals on this watch below.
The Garmin Vivoactive 5is a fantastic all-rounder fitness smartwatch with tons of workout plans, a crisp AMOLED display, onboard GPS, and 11 days of battery life. At this price, you'll be hard pressed to find a better-performing watch for general fitness, health, and exercise tracking.View Deal
A lowest-ever price on the Garmin Vivoactive 5 means there's never been a better time to snap this up. Garmin's comprehensive and (still mostly free) app has served me well for years, while the Vivoactive 5 at this price is an easy buy for Fitbit users who are used to cheaper devices. View Deal
Hot summer weather is perfect for a BBQ, getting a rare UK tan, or heading to the beach, but when it’s a heatwave I know I want to do nothing more than sit in front of a fan to avoid overheating.
If you’re also stuck inside with your family can I suggest a board game?
No matter the weather games can be a great way to spend your evenings together, and thanks to Amazon Prime Day deals, you can save big on some of my favourites, including all-star Catan.
If you're after a more classic board game vibe then you'll be after something like Catan or Wingspan, or 7 Wonders. There's strategy, a little trading, and slightly chunkier rules, though these titles are all still accessible to folks who consider Monopoly their complexity limit.
Would you rather work together? Pandemic is your game, whilst Duel is ideal for 1v1 head-to-head gaming.
Sounds Fishy, Bananagrams, and Herd Mentality are much more group friendly, and are ideal party games. Whether sober or a bit tipsy these games are a blast.
Amazon's Echo Show displays act as a hub from which you can control your smart home. There are several different options, and the best one for you will depend on your needs and priorities. Below, I'll run through the top options for a range of different customers.
As you'll see below, most of the range is currently discounted. That's because Amazon's latest Prime Day event is underway, and runs until June 26 — based on previous events, these deals should last until then, but won't continue on past Friday. You do need to be a Prime member to qualify for the discounts, but you can you're not a member you can sign up for a free trial (just don't forget to cancel if you decide it's not for you).
All clear? Let's take a look at the best Echo Show hubs for a range of different people, or hop to the bottom of the article for a specs comparison table.
I want the Echo Show with the biggest and best screen
All the Echo Show devices have a touchscreen to display information, and via which you can monitor and control your smart home gadgets when you're not using voice controls. The option with the largest screen is the Show 21 — its screen is 21 inches, and full HD. The Show 15 and Show 11 also both have full HD screens, at 15 and 11 inches respectively.
Amazon
Echo Show 21 (newest gen)
Amazon
Echo Show 21 (newest Gen)
Amazon
Echo Show 15 (newest gen)
Amazon
Echo Show 15 (newest gen)
I want the cheapest Echo Show
The cheapest option is the Echo Show 5, which at list price costs $89.99 / £89.99. However, with the current discounts there's a third or more off in both the US and UK, taking it down to $59.99 / £49.99. As you'd expect, this model is the simplest of the bunch. The screen is 5.5 inches (the smallest in the range), with a standard rather than HD display, the camera is just 2MP, and there's one basic speaker. If you just need something simple, though, it should hit the spot — and especially if you'd rather keep things compact, as this is the smallest display in the range.
However, if you want something a bit more advanced, now would be the time to shop higher up the range — hop down to my best-value picks below.
Amazon
Echo Show 5 (newest gen)
Amazon
Echo Show 5 (newest gen)
I want the best-value Echo Show
Right now, the best-valueEcho Show devices are the Show 8 and Show 11. These sit in the middle of the range, and offer a worthwhile specs bump over the basic Show 5. The 8 has a HD screen and the 11 has full HD, on the speaker front both boast two full-range drivers and a 2.8-inch woofer, and both have a 13MP camera with auto-framing to keep you in the frame during video calls.
If you're shopping for a family-friendly game console this Amazon Prime Day, then there are two major products that should be on your radar: the Nintendo Switch 2 and the Nex Playground.
Both products are suitable for families, though the Nintendo Switch 2 is more of a traditional games console. It is compatible with Nintendo Switch 2 (or original Nintendo Switch) games that range from those geared primarily towards kids with franchises like Super Mario or Mario Kart to ones intended for adults such as Doom. These need to be purchased separately.
The Switch 2 also offers online chat features and multiplayer play - though these can be restricted via parental controls. Personally, it's the one I would pick if I were shopping for a child in their teens.
The Playground, in contrast, is aimed primarily at kids aged five to ten. It comes with a selection of kid-friendly games out of the box, with the option to get more via a relatively affordable subscription service. While the Switch 2 relies on more conventional controllers, the Playground uses easy-to-learn motion controls, making it a better choice for those with younger gamers.
How to choose the best family game console for you in the US
The better for those shopping for teens, the Nintendo Switch 2 is a fully fledged, powerful gaming console that's compatible with a wide range of games. It offers online chat features and multiplayer play, as well as the ability to play games at home on the TV or out and about using its built-in screen.View Deal
Ideal for younger gamers, the Nex Playground comes with games out of the box and relies on intuitive motion controls. It's a locked-down system designed specifically with young children in mind.View Deal
How to choose the best family game console for you in the UK
The Nintendo Switch 2 is discounted right now in the UK, though it still costs more than the Playground. It is more powerful and offers a more traditional gaming console experience with a wider variety of games. View Deal
The Nex Playground is cheaper and comes pre-loaded with a selection of games geared towards younger players. It's the perfect choice if you're shopping for those aged five to ten/View Deal
The Nex Playground made headlines when it outsold the Nintendo Switch 2 and other consoles on Amazon in the US briefly over Black Friday last year. Having gone hands-on with the system, it's easy to see why.
It's basically the perfect option for young kids, with features designed to offer parents the most peace of mind possible.
Our Nex Playground review said that "Though it won’t replace mainstream gaming consoles or PCs, the Nex Playground is a strong option for anyone who wants an affordable, easy-to-set-up experience built around games that take great advantage of its high-quality ultra-wide camera and Nex’s AI-powered motion engine.
"Its game library is varied and approachable, with quick-play sessions that feel simple to pick up yet surprisingly intuitive"
Enterprises are deploying agentic AI at a pace that has outrun their ability to govern it.
Gartner predicts the average Fortune 500 enterprise will have over 150,000 agents in production by 2028, up from fewer than 15 in 2025.
Yet only 13% of organizations think they have the right governance in place to manage them.
The result is an execution gap: agents deployed in isolation, producing outputs nobody acts on, automating tasks rather than business processes and delivering unclear business value as a consequence.
Governance failures are an execution problem. Agents that can't interface safely with enterprise systems can't automate business processes in any meaningful way. They stay isolated helpers: producing artifacts, fielding customer queries, handling individual tasks.
The execution gap — the distance between what agentic AI promises and what it actually delivers inside the enterprise — remains largely unaddressed.
In 2026 and beyond, the guardrail problem poses an existential risk for enterprises. Adoption has outpaced controls, meaning that agentic AI is scaling faster than robust security measures can be implemented.
The speed of tech progress
The speed of tech progress can no longer stand as a rationalization for falling behind, and enterprises must address it before agentic becomes uncontrollable. Getting guardrails right will separate enterprises that realize full autonomy from those that stall out in pilots.
First, autonomy amplifies risk. Just because agentic AI can act on its own doesn't mean it requires zero human oversight. Autonomy does not equal autopilot. For agentic AI to generate real ROI, agents must do more than reason and respond. They must execute inside the business. That means interfacing directly with enterprise systems: ERP software, finance platforms, supply chain tools and the workflows that run the organization. Without that integration, agents remain one step removed from the work that actually matters.
Operational speed can compromise safety, compliance and reliability. Agents work at a blazing clip and on a more granular level than RPA. But speed becomes a moot point if agentic adoption leads to vulnerabilities such as sensitive data exposure.
Security and IT teams haven’t universally adapted to the new risk landscape. Among the risks agentic poses, "shadow AI" has emerged as a consequence of employees using unauthorized, unsanctioned AI tools or applications. When proper IT oversight or approval gets bypassed, it sets the stage for noncompliance and severe reputational damage. Departmental AI agents are proliferating without central oversight, creating security hazards and fragmented intelligence.
Governance lags far behind adoption. In this case, the guardrail gap might as well be a lack. Surveying more than 3,000 IT and business leaders worldwide, Deloitte found that just one in five enterprises reported mature governance to manage the risks of agentic AI. Autonomy without governance is a liability. This is particularly critical as we move toward the era of programmable finance, with Gartner predicting that 20% of monetary transactions will be programmable by 2030.
How to Lay the Rails Right
Agentic systems perform across a wide range of functions. When building guardrails, there must be no shortcuts. Guardrails bolted on after the fact can't account for the ways agents actually fail: corrupting data, contradicting decisions made elsewhere in the business and creating conflicts between teams acting on different outputs. Controls need to be built into how agents execute, instead of layered on top.
1. Practice measured orchestration
When enterprises accelerate AI adoption by stitching isolated tools across departments, security gaps grow harder to manage — because there’s no unified layer to anchor guardrails to. Start by scoping the broader business objective your agentic system needs to serve, not just the task.
Once you've determined what your agentic system will handle and which structured outputs will return to the workflow, built-in validation and guardrails become platform-level capabilities rather than afterthoughts bolted onto each individual agent.
2. Build governance capabilities
Without clear boundaries, agentic AI collapses. First, determine which decisions it can make independently versus those that need human approval. Real-time monitoring systems that flag anomalies and audit trails that capture the full chain of agent actions will enable accountability and continuous improvement.
3. Scale deliberately
No matter how sexy the pilot, agentic AI needs time to mature within the enterprise; you want to spot potential issues before they appear, not after. Start with lower-risk use cases and easy, single-task wins, as with fraud detection and remediation or vendor reconciliation. Avoid intricate processes with hundreds or thousands of inputs, such as the financial close of a business.
4. Guardrail gap = skills gap
While agentic AI excels at reasoning, the execution of reliable, repeatable business processes still demands deterministic systems — and human oversight to bridge the two.
To ensure smooth agentic operation in an enterprise, train your employees to move from triage, menial activities and repeated manual steps to judgment, governance and strategic decision-making roles. They absolutely require those skills. Scrum and Tiger teams can solve early problems and address early lessons, then pinpoint how agentic addresses your needs.
Putting it All Together: A Guiding Guardrail Principle
Yes, agentic AI scales productivity, but without strong guardrails, agentic AI scales risk even faster. Strategic observability and deterministic guardrails are required to ensure that non-deterministic AI stays compliant with regulatory and business standards, with reliable audit trails as well as rules for exactly when to escalate a decision or task to a human for complex exceptions or strategic oversight.
In the rush to embrace agentic, remember that the attendant tasks don’t represent a series of punch-list items. Veterans of software adoption and replacement projects know that it’s a holistic process where human actions and digital components fall into place with methodical synchrony.
Agentic AI, while it has altered the face of enterprise technology forever, rewards the same discipline every transformative technology before it has: lay the foundations carefully, and you won’t be fighting fires when it scales.
This article was produced as part of TechRadar Pro Perspectives, our channel to feature the best and brightest minds in the technology industry today.
The views expressed here are those of the author and are not necessarily those of TechRadarPro or Future plc. If you are interested in contributing find out more here: https://www.techradar.com/pro/perspectives-how-to-submit
Around half of UK retail workers don't feel confident with GDPR tasks
One in five haven't received formal compliance training
Many workers can't remember what their training involved
Nearly half (44%) of UK retail workers say they're not confident in handling sensitive customer data or don't know how to process it correctly, raising potential compliance issues, per Virtual College research.
According to the data, nearly one-fifth (19%) of retail workers have never received formal compliance training despite handling customer banking details, contact information and other personal data daily.
And those who have been trained say it's been sporadic without regular updates – only one in three (30%) have been trained within the last six months, with a further 11% trained 7-11 months ago.
Retail workers aren't up to speed on GDPR
The report raises questions around the frequency and effectiveness of such training, because nearly one in five (17%) couldn't remember what their last compliance training covered. Only 13% say it covered safeguarding.
And while training is still being delivered to many, only around half (49%) say they'd feel 'somewhat confident' in responding correctly to a compliance situation.
This data also comes at a similar time to Government data revealing that more than two in five (43%) businesses have experienced some kind of cyber breach or attack in the past 12 months, highlighting the vulnerability of personal and sensitive information.
"Ongoing, bite-sized training keeps compliance knowledge fresh and helps employees stay confident in fast-changing regulatory environments," Business and Strategy Director Jamie Ashforth wrote, urging employers to conduct regular audits to identify gaps.
Per the report, UK companies paid £490 million in compliance failure fines in 2025, but broader impacts of regulatory investigations and knock-on reputational damage are also highly plausible outcomes.
Ashforth suggests businesses should prioritize high-risk compliance areas first, including data protection and safeguarding. "Clear processes and regular reinforcement give employees the confidence to raise concerns and act appropriately when issues arise."
I'm feeling fresh and just a little bit smug today, because I spent last night sound asleep under a cool blanket of air provided by the Dimplex FlexBlade Tower Fan, which is now £123 (was £199.99) at Amazon. You can use it vertically to blow a column of air in your direction while you're working or cooking, but it really comes into its own turned horizontally, when it's just the right height to blow a breeze right across your duvet and help you beat the heat.
The FlexBlade looks a lot like the Shark TurboBlade, which is perhaps a bit cheeky of Dimplex, but it's half the price for Amazon Prime Day and very effective. If you struggle to get a proper night's rest in hot weather, I recommend giving it a try — and it's not too heavy to carry between rooms during the day. Oh, and it oscillates horizontally as well.
This Dimplex fan is a dead ringer for the Shark TurboBlade (but much cheaper) and creates a horizontal or vertical sheet of air to keep you comfortable. It works best at night, blowing a cool blanket over your bed.View Deal
It's not the quietest fan I've ever used (that would be the MeacoFan Sefte Pro Air Circulator, which is almost silent), but the Dimplex FlexBlade has a night mode that noticeably reduces noise while still producing a very effective sheet of air to beat the heat.
This pocket-sized fan will keep you cool and comfortable anywhere this week, and this bundle with a carry case and cross-body strap is now cheaper than buying the fan by itself thanks to this great Prime Day deal.View Deal
At under £30, this little desk fan is a great buy on Prime Day — and I'd know because it's currently sitting on my desk at home. It folds flat, is rechargeable so you can take it anywhere, and packs a surprisingly powerful punch. View Deal
There's a 25% discount on this simple, quiet tower fan for Prime Day. Like the FlexBlade, it has a timer so you can set it to turn off automatically once you're asleep, and a remote control so you can operate it from bed.View Deal
Govee is best known for its smart lights, but it also makes some great cooling fans. Our reviewer gave the shorter 36-inch version of this fan four and a half stars out of five thanks to its smart looks, performance, and versatility.View Deal
Cloudzy isn’t your run-of-the-mill web hosting provider. It specializes in cloud infrastructure and fairly bare-bones Virtual Private Server (VPS) plans. That means you get reasonably priced access to excellent hardware and resources, provided you have the technical skills to handle them.
The good news is that many things can be pre-configured, and you have a broad choice of options in everything from the choice of operating system (OS) to web apps. We’re not just talking about WordPress, but also advanced options like Forex platforms.
You also have an excellent range of server location options, though perhaps not as comprehensive as Google Cloud or AWS, which are on a different pricing tier altogether. What we didn’t like, though, was the discounts Cloudzy offers based on your location choice, which we felt was a bit unfair to customers who might require specific regions for efficiency and localization.
Be warned, though - Cloudzy is not really aimed at casual users building their first website. While you can technically host anything here, the core audience appears to be users who need virtual servers for web apps, trading bots, VPN setups, and the like.
Plans and pricing
(Image credit: Cloudzy)
Cloudzy primarily focuses on VPS hosting rather than traditional shared hosting packages. At the bottom of its offerings are Cloud VPS plans similar to those offered by hosts like DigitalOcean, Linode, and VULTR.
(Image credit: Cloudzy)
At Cloudzy, though, you get a broader range of pre-deployment options. For example, you can decide to go with a pure OS-only deployment, or get your server started with a full LAMP-stack supported web app, or almost anything else.
Cloud VPS plans start at 1 vCPU with 512MB RAM, 20GB of NVMe storage, and 1TB bandwidth/mo. This scales up to a whopping 16 vCPU, 64GB RAM, 1.5TB NVMe storage, and 16TB of bandwidth for $199.97/mo.
While there is no additional charge for pre-deployment options, your final price may be adjusted depending on server location. It’s likely that Cloudzy does this to help balance their location loads, but it’s unfortunate for customers who may be penalized because of their requirements for where their servers are located.
Aside from Cloud VPS, Cloudzy also offers more specialized solutions like high-performance GPUs, GPU-optimized servers, AI servers, and dedicated servers. Again, all of these options are fairly technical, especially their dedicated bare-metal servers.
Ease of use
(Image credit: Cloudzy)
The Cloudzy dashboard is a straightforward way to manage your servers. However, it’s more practical than informational. You can use it to deploy, rebuild, or configure instances. Server monitoring isn’t in the cards, though, and you’ll have to deploy any of those solutions on your individual servers if you need them.
When we initially discussed the pre-deployment option, it might have been misconstrued as saying Cloudzy is easy to use. That isn’t really the case. Once the deployment is made, you’ll still have to manage the stack on your own. For example, you have to keep your server OS and applications up to date and security-hardened, not just manage your web app.
This is typically done via SSH into the server (root access is provided). If you know what you’re doing, it’s easy-peasy. If not, you’re probably going to face an oncoming disaster.
Again, we don’t recommend Cloudzy as a first hosting provider for someone completely unfamiliar with VPS environments. If you’re looking for a first entry to the Cloud, try something with more management features like Cloudways. That, however, will cost a bit more, so be mentally prepared.
Speed and reliability
Cloud providers are always thought to be all-powerful, but keep in mind that much of it still depends on the hardware and configuration. For example, on the surface, Cloudzy offers some pretty good standard cloud VPS plans. However, the processing power on these compared to their high-performance options is very different. For example, the 2GB standard cloud VPS plan we tested includes a 2.25GHz AMD processor, while a comparable high-performance plan includes 4.2GHz processors.
The biggest surprise, though, is that Cloudzy is using AMD Ryzen 9 processors for their Cloud VPS plans. Servers typically run AMD EPYC chips, which are the dedicated server versions commonly used in web hosting. The Ryzen family is intended more for regular consumers or enthusiasts.
It’s possible that this led to the slightly disappointing test results below.
WordPress benchmark test
The standard WordPress benchmark test was run on our prebuilt WordPress site to maintain consistency. Results at Cloudzy were a letdown, with initial results showing worse performance than some budget shared hosting alternatives we’ve seen.
Siege test
On our load test, Cloudzy performed like a champ, acing results with increasing loads of 5, 9, and 15 concurrent users. It ran rock-solid and completed all transactions quickly. If we were to use this as a comparative factor against the easier benchmark test, Siege results should take priority as a more realistic indicator.
Customer support
Cloudzy offers customer support via tickets (for existing customers), a knowledge base, and, more interestingly, WhatsApp. Don’t be fooled by the WhatsApp chat support option, though. You don’t get an instant response.
Their knowledge base is also quite Spartan, with only 73 guides available. These articles are very straightforward and relatively technical, so you may have to know what you’re doing just to follow the language. It can be a challenge, but those are the preconditions for this type of hosting anyway.
Overall, the vibe you get from customer support is very corporate. We felt a notable disappointment here, especially coming off our recent Freehostia review. That was a free hosting plan, yet it came with near-instant customer support that was both polite and effective.
The competition
DigitalOcean is one of the most popular cloud infrastructure providers for developers and startups, and is similar in product offerings to Cloudzy. Compared to Cloudzy, DigitalOcean has a more mature ecosystem and a more professional customer dashboard. However, Cloudzy may appeal more to users looking for simpler pricing and lower-cost VPS deployments.
Linode has built a strong reputation among developers for reliability and straightforward cloud hosting services. Compared to Cloudzy, Linode offers more enterprise-level polish and documentation, though pricing can sometimes be higher for equivalent resources.
For those who want a fully hands-off approach, Hostinger is a beginner-friendly choice. Although primarily cheap for shared hosting, you can also get VPS hosting and other plans. Hosting is priced aggressively and offers strong localization expertise for ideal customer support.
Final verdict
To be honest, Cloudzy is a fairly run-of-the-mill cloud hosting provider. We don’t feel that it excels in any particular area, even though the host itself seems professional enough. What really turned us off was their slow customer support, even for sales queries.
Performance-wise, Cloudzy runs fine, even with Ryzen chips instead of enterprise-grade EPYC chips. It’s just that the choice left us feeling disappointed that they would cut corners in that way. We recommend considering one of the many cloud alternatives if you’re in the market for a budget, hands-on hosting plan.
This is Samsung’s fastest consumer drive ever, and in our review, we said "it definitely delivers fantastic performance with the fastest write speeds I've ever tested." If you’re building or upgrading a system and want the best storage performance available right now without compromise, this is the drive.
The 9100 Pro capably offers best-in-class sequential read and write performance and impressive random read/write speeds. For anyone upgrading from a PCIe Gen 4 drive, the difference in large-file transfers and sustained read workloads is immediately apparent. But what really catches my eye is that it's 49% off for Prime Day right now.
Today's top Samsung 9100 Pro SSD deal
For ultra-fast speeds, the 9100 Pro from Samsung is a beast of an SSD that delivered best-in-class performance across the board during our tests. If you're a professional, we found that "there's none better than the 9100 Pro."
More interestingly for business and creative users, we clocked that while we didn't quite hit the promised highs of 14,700MB/s sequential read speeds, it still offered blazing-fast speeds, particularly shining in its sequential write performance, making it a fantastic pick for professionals.
The 9100 Pro is Samsung’s first fully PCIe Gen 5 x4 consumer drive — a meaningful distinction from the 990 EVO, which used a hybrid Gen 4 x4 / Gen 5 x2 interface as a halfway measure. Full Gen 5 x4 doubles the available interface bandwidth over Gen 4, and at 14,700MB/s sequential reads, the 9100 Pro delivers on that headroom. For context, a high-end Gen 4 drive like the Samsung 990 Pro tops out at around 7,450MB/s reads — the 9100 Pro is almost exactly twice as fast at the interface level.
Future / John LoefflerFuture / John LoefflerFuture / John Loeffler
The 2TB capacity is the sweet spot in the line-up. It’s single-sided — meaning all components sit on one face of the PCB — which makes it compatible with a wider range of laptops and slim-profile systems that can’t accommodate double-sided drives. The 2TB model is also rated slightly faster than the 1TB model on sequential reads (14,700 MB/s vs 13,300 MB/s), and its 1,200 TBW endurance rating is generous for a consumer drive at this capacity.
The LPDDR4X DRAM cache (2GB at 2TB) is a meaningful inclusion that differentiates it from DRAM-less budget Gen 5 drives. DRAM cache significantly improves random I/O consistency — particularly relevant for workstation use cases involving large databases, virtual machines, or AI inference workloads where latency matters as much as peak throughput.
The UK is experiencing another heatwave, with temperatures expected to exceed 35°C
Nintendo Switch users should be reminded of the risks of overheating their console
Nintendo has previously said that the consoles can "malfunction" in temperatures above 35°C
As we enter another UK heatwave, Nintendo Switch users should be reminded of the risks of overheating their console.
Recent weather reports have forecast that temperatures in certain parts of the UK will exceed 35°C this week, reaching as high as 40°C.
An amber warning has been issued, in addition to a rare red extreme heat warning, for some regions and those spending time outside should be prepared for the sweltering heat. Even those indoors should take similar precautions to stay cool, especially if they have any running hardware that can contribute to the heat.
Whether it be a PC, PS5 console, or Xbox Series X, these devices do run the risk of overheating, particularly during a heatwave. The same goes for Switch and Switch 2 consoles, which Nintendo has previously cautioned can "malfunction" if temperatures are above 35°C.
"Using a Nintendo Switch or Nintendo Switch 2 in places with high temperatures may cause the console's temperature to rise," the company said in a post shared last year.
"This could potentially lead to malfunctions, so please use it in locations between 5–35°C. Lately, there have been consecutive days exceeding 35°C. Please take care when using it outdoors."
For this reason, we'd highly recommend avoiding using your Switch or Switch 2 when temperatures are at their highest.
In other news, Nintendo has officially announced The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time remake, and it launches this year on Switch 2.
The AI PC market has become incredibly confusing. Microsoft, Intel, AMD, Qualcomm, Apple and laptop makers are all selling 'AI PCs', but do you really know what you’re actually getting? And do you really need an 'AI PC' anyway?
Meanwhile, Microsoft appears to be expanding some Copilot+ features beyond dedicated neural processing units (NPUs), potentially blurring the distinction further.
What you need, then, is some way to tell whether you're buying a genuinely useful AI machine or just an expensive sticker. You want to be sure that whatever you buy, it will still be relevant in two years.
In short, there are five key things to check in order to make sure that your PC really is an 'AI PC'. They are:
Minimum RAM
NPU vs GPU
Copilot+ requirements
Does it have AI features you’ll actually use?
Is there enough space on the SSD?
Let’s look at them in turn:
1. At least 16GB of RAM (preferably 32GB)
AI features are memory-hungry. If you look at the deals on Prime Day laptops this week you’ll see that a lot of them are discounted because they're older models with 8GB RAM. That's already becoming restrictive for modern Windows use, and it's especially limiting if you want to run local AI tools.
The main exception to the rule is the MacBook Neo from Apple, which only comes with 8GB of RAM, but thanks to a 16-core neural engine can run the new Siri AI. It’s a great laptop for experimenting with AI, but advanced users will require more RAM.
Rule of thumb: Skip any 'AI PC' with 8GB RAM, the MacBook Neo being the only exception.
2. A processor that actually supports Copilot+ features
Many laptops are being marketed as AI PCs simply because they contain an NPU. That doesn't necessarily mean they support the full set of Microsoft Copilot+ experiences such as Recall, Click to Do, Cocreator, Live Captions, and so on.
The NPU is much more efficient at AI tasks than a CPU or a GPU, so you’re still going to need one if you’re looking for a machine that’s equipped for AI.
For an AI laptop, running Windows I’d look for: Qualcomm Snapdragon X series, recent AMD Ryzen AI chips, or recent Intel Core Ultra chips that explicitly support Copilot+.
When it comes to Macs, avoid ones with Intel chips completely. You need an Apple silicon processor, which are designated M processors, or in the case of the MacBook Neo, the A18 Pro. The M1 is pretty old now, since it came out in November 2020, but it will still support Apple Intelligence features. To make better use of the newest Siri AI features, due in macOS 27 Golden Gate, this fall, get the latest processor you can afford. The current version is the M processor is the super-fast M5.
3. Battery life that benefits from AI hardware
One of the genuine advantages of NPUs is efficiency. If a laptop only manages five or six hours of real-world battery life, then the AI hardware isn't delivering one of its biggest promised benefits.
Rule of thumb: Expect all-day battery life if you're paying a premium for an AI laptop. If the laptop says less in its specs, then avoid.
4. AI features you'll actually use
Remember, you don’t need an 'AI PC' to just run ChatGPT or Gemini in a browser, or using their native apps. Since subscription services like ChatGPT and Gemini do all their processing in the cloud, the capabilities of your PC aren’t really the issue here.
However, to make use of AI features that are part of the operating system, like Copilot in Windows and Siri AI in macOS, you will need a machine that’s classified as being AI capable. Also, some apps, like Photoshop, make use of the NPU in your PC when generating AI images, so they'll perform better with the correct hardware.
The question to ask yourself is, are you really going to be using these things?
Ask yourself whether you'll realistically use features like Live translation, AI image generation, AI-powered search and AI photo editing? Many people are paying extra for features they'll never touch.
Rule of thumb: Buy the laptop first, the AI second.
5. A fast SSD with enough space for local AI
Some newer AI tools run locally rather than entirely in the cloud. If you’re going to be using these sorts of tools (and the application is usually in programming) then you'll need to consider the speed and size of your SSD.
So while a bargain laptop with 256GB storage and 16GB RAM might look attractive, you’ll find you hit the storage limits once Windows, some games, apps and photos have been installed. And if you’re even thinking of installing a local AI model, it won’t do at all.
Rule of thumb: Aim for at least 512GB SSD, ideally 1TB.
Today's best Prime Day AI PC deals (US)
This Microsoft Surface Laptop (2024) comes with Windows 11 and is a genuine Copilot+ PC. It has 13.8-inch Touchscreen Display, Snapdragon X Elite (12 core), 16GB RAM, 256GB SSD Storage. This Prime Day Deal features a massive 38% off.View Deal
This ASUS Vivobook S16 Laptop, Copilot+ PC has an AMD Ryzen AI 7 350 with XDNA NPU, 16GB Memory and 1TB SSD. The Amazon Prime Day deal knocks a healthy 20% off its price.View Deal
This Acer Aspire 16 AI Copilot+ PC has a large 16-inch WUXGA 120Hz 100% sRGB display, and comes with a Snapdragon X processor and 16GB LPDDR5X RAM with a 512GB SSD. This Amazon Prime Day deal knocks 21% off its price.View Deal
Today's best Prime Day AI PC deals (UK)
This Microsoft Surface Laptop is a Copilot+ PC with a 15-inch Touchscreen, Snapdragon® X Elite processor and a whopping 32GB Memory and a 1TB SSD. Thanks to Amazon Prime Day there's £300 off, making it a great deal.View Deal
The HP OmniBook 5 Next Gen AI 16-inch Laptop is a CoPilot+ PC with a Snapdragon X1-26-100 processor, 16GB RAM and a 512GB SSD. You'll find it at a very tempting £449.99 this Amazon Prime Day. View Deal
This ASUS Zenbook A14 OLED UX3407QA Copilot+ PC laptop has a 14-inch WUXGA (1920x1200) OLED screen, a Qualcomm Snapdragon X1-26-100 processor, a 16GB RAM and a 1TB PCIe SSD. You get 31% off thanks to Amazon Prime Day.View Deal
If, like me, you're having to use public transport this week, a personal fan will make your life a lot more comfortable — and I've found just the Amazon Prime Day deal for you. Right now, the Shark ChillPill Travel Bundle is just £119.99 (was £149.99) at Amazon. That includes not just the fan and its three cooling attachments, but a travel case to keep everything safe, and a cross-body strap so you can wear it and stay comfortable hands-free.
After testing this little fan myself, I loved it so much that I bought my own, and I've not regretted it for a second. My personal favourite is the misting attachment, which sprays you with a fine cloud of vapour when you fill it from your water bottle, but the regular fan and icy cooling plate are a joy as well. Whether you're on a bus or a train, your fellow commuters will be green (and sweaty) with envy.
This pocket-sized fan will keep you cool and comfortable anywhere this week, and this bundle with a carry case and cross-body strap is now cheaper than buying the fan by itself thanks to this great Prime Day deal.View Deal
Considering how high the temperatures are going to soar later this week, I wouldn't be at all surprised if this deal sells out, so I'd strongly advise grabbing it now if you're tempted. This deal only applies to the silver version, but personally I think that's one of the nicest colours anyway.
If you happen to be viewing this article from the US (hello!) then there's good news for you as well if you're feeling the heat — you can grab the Shark ChillPill for $99.99 (was $129.99) at Amazon for Prime Day. This deal doesn't include the carry case and strap, but it's excellent nonetheless, knocking $30 off the list price.
Shark's three-in-one fan has received its first ever price cut for Prime Day, and it's a big one, knocking $30 off. It earned a solid 4.5 stars in our review, and will keep you cool and comfortable at home, in the office, or on the move.View Deal
I'm not expecting the ChillPill's main rival, the Dyson HushJet Mini Cool Fan, to receive any Prime Day discounts, so this is likely to be the best offer we see on a personal cooling system this week.
Report finds public support for workplace robots is growing – especially for physical or dangerous tasks
Willingness to accept a robot inside the home grows with real-life exposure
Familiarity and clear governance are essential to overcoming public fear
Technological capabilities may no longer been the limiting factor when it comes to how and where robots can be deployed, with new Hexagon research revealing public support isn’t always there.
The company found much of the public is becoming more accepting of robots in the workplace, but only where they’re used for practical, physical or dangerous jobs.
However roles which require empathy, judgement or human interaction are still where support remains low.
Robots are most accepted in practical labor use cases
For example, more than half (56%) of the 1,000+ UK adults surveyed said they’d accept robots in lifting and transporting heavy items. Carrying and delivering any items (38%) and monitoring hazards and dangerous environments (34%) also received reasonable support.
With airports, some supermarkets and other public places now employing robots, 31% would even support their use in cleaning shared spaces.
Though the research fails to detail perception by age bracket, the company surveyed an equal number of UK children to reveal that heavy lifting, carrying and delivering is even more accepted among under 18s.
However, while repetitive physical work is generally well-accepted, 82% of UK adults want humans to care for sick, elderly and young people.
Only 5% say they’d choose a robot caregiver, making this the lowest support for any of the tasks included in the report. Even children seem reluctant to have non-human personal interactions, with 79% preferring human caregivers and 8% willing to choose a robot instead.
But Hexagon Technology Ethicist Dr Blay Whitby argues a simple reframing could skew these figures: “Ask people if they want to be cared for by a robot, and most say no… Ask if technology should help them remain independent in their own home for longer, and most say yes.”
Associate Professor in Moral Psychology Dr Jim Everett sees robots more as “assistive devices” in care homes and classrooms, rather than human replacements.
Exposure can drastically shift public perception
For now, the public still sees robots as industrial automation roles. More than half agree their natural homes are factories (53%) and warehouses (53%) – fewer consider them at home in hospitals and clinics (34%) or classrooms (30%).
Fear of the unknown could be another blocker, with only 28% of UK adults believing that having a robot colleague would be exciting – nearly half (46%) say it would be frightening. Humanoid forms are clearly unsettling, with twice as many preferring machine-like robots (27%) compared with human-like robots (14%).
Sci-fi fears about robots taking over could also be influencing public perception. Nearly all UK adults (88%) want clear rules governing what robots can do.
“Industrial environments are where the tasks for robots are the most defined, the safety cases are mature, and governance is in public view,” Hexagon CTO Burkhard Boeckem concluded.
Global comparisons back the fear of the unknown theory – while 30% of UK adults have encountered robots in real life, 75% have in China. A country that’s nearly twice as likely (63%) to accept robots into the home compared with the UK (32%).
For most of the last forty years, data center performance gains came from one place: smaller transistors. Moore's Law and Dennard scaling did the work.
Each new generation of silicon delivered more performance at the same or lower power, and thermal was a maintenance problem, not a performance limiter.
Cooling sat in the background. Operators measured it through PUE, optimized for it where convenient, and otherwise treated it as overhead.
That world is over.
Dennard scaling broke years ago, transistor efficiency gains are leveling off, and AI accelerator TDPs have climbed from 700 watts in the H100 generation to over 1,400 watts in current Blackwell deployments, with NVIDIA's upcoming Rubin platform expected to push further.
Thermal is no longer something that happens after the architectural decisions. It is now the binding constraint on how much performance a chip can sustain, and it is becoming one of the most strategic choices an AI data center operator can make.
Why this matters now
The macro numbers explain why this matters now. Data centers already consume up to 4.5 percent of total U.S. electricity production, a figure projected to reach 12 percent by 2028. McKinsey estimates global data center spending could approach $7 trillion by 2030, and that data center power demand will reach 220 gigawatts in the same window.
None of that capacity arrives quickly. New transmission lines and substations now take five to ten years to permit and build, which means operators cannot simply order more power when they need to scale.
The result is a hard pressure to extract maximum performance from the power they already have under contract. That pressure is what is reshaping how the industry thinks about cooling.
Cooling is no longer just an afterthought
For years, cooling was measured as an efficiency loss, captured through metrics like Power Usage Effectiveness (PUE) that quantified how much energy was burned on overhead before reaching the IT load. Today, the more meaningful metric is how much useful compute you extract per unit of power. NVIDIA's Jensen Huang now describes this as "performance per watt" or "tokens per watt" for AI workloads, and cooling plays a direct role in both halves of that equation.
Direct-to-chip liquid cooling has become the new baseline because it removes heat far more effectively than air. But even direct-to-chip is being pushed to its limit by 1,000+ watt accelerators, and most current deployments still require facility water around 30 degrees Celsius to stay within ASHRAE W2 and W3 envelopes, which means chillers running for much of the year in warm climates.
Better thermal management has effects on both sides of the tokens-per-watt equation. It reduces facility overhead, so more of the contracted power reaches the rack. And it allows chips to operate closer to their full thermal headroom, sustaining higher performance for longer.
Those gains compound. Recent UCLA study has shown that combining a 17 percent improvement in facility efficiency with a 15 percent gain in server-level performance per watt from better thermal management translates to roughly 35 percent more tokens per watt within the same power envelope. In a 10 megawatt facility, that is more than a megawatt of additional usable compute, with no additional grid commitment.
At GTC 2026, NVIDIA CEO Jensen Huang made this argument explicitly. He told the audience that beyond the silicon roadmap, infrastructure-level optimization across power and cooling represents another factor of two in performance still on the table. "There's no question in my mind there's a factor of two in here, and a factor of two at the scale we're talking about is gigantic," he said.
That gain does not come from a smaller transistor. It comes from rethinking how power and thermal energy move through the rack. Recent UCLA study suggests that at least one third of that infrastructure-level gain is attributable specifically to cooling. Cooling is no longer a support function. It is a primary lever for performance.
Water is becoming a hard constraint
Power is not the only pressure point. Water is emerging as an equally critical and often more immediate constraint on data center expansion. Traditional cooling architectures often rely on evaporative processes that consume vast amounts of water. According to the Environmental and Energy Study Institute, large data centers may use up to 5 million gallons per day, comparable to the daily water use of a town of 10,000 to 50,000 people.
This is drawing notice from regulators and communities in already water-stressed areas. The result is longer permitting cycles, higher project risk, and in some cases new developments paused entirely. States and municipalities are also implementing stricter reporting requirements and adjusting electricity rate structures specifically for data centers.
Operators now have to factor water alongside power into site selection. Facilities that minimize energy waste and reduce or eliminate water consumption are better positioned to navigate this environment.
The shift toward next-generation cooling
In response, the industry is entering a new phase of cooling innovation. Air cooling is no longer sufficient for high-density AI workloads. Liquid cooling has become the baseline, but within liquid cooling, not all approaches deliver the same efficiency or scalability.
The next wave of innovation focuses on improving heat transfer at the source: removing thermal energy more effectively at the chip level while reducing system-wide overhead. Some of these approaches draw on heat transfer techniques refined in other high-density power industries such as nuclear power generation, where the challenge of moving large amounts of thermal energy from a constrained physical space has been studied for decades.
The goal is straightforward. Better cooling enables higher rack densities, allows operation at higher facility water temperatures, and reduces or eliminates reliance on water-intensive heat rejection. Just as importantly, the next generation of cooling architectures is being designed to integrate with existing data center footprints, so operators can evolve their infrastructure rather than rebuild it from scratch.
NVIDIA's Vera Rubin platform, announced at CES 2026, was a clear signal of where this is heading. Vera Rubin is designed for 45 degree Celsius supply water, which means dry coolers can do most of the heat rejection year-round and mechanical chillers become optional in most climates. That is a fundamental shift in how cooling infrastructure will be designed for the next decade.
A defining moment for data center design
The data center industry is at an inflection point. AI compute demand is accelerating, and every resource needed to support it, power, water, physical space, is becoming harder to secure. Cooling sits at the intersection of all three.
It determines how efficiently power is used, how much water is consumed, and ultimately, where infrastructure can be deployed. The operators that recognize this now will have a sustained advantage. How to keep data centers cool under AI workload pressure has become one of the most strategic decisions in modern infrastructure.
This article was produced as part of TechRadar Pro Perspectives, our channel to feature the best and brightest minds in the technology industry today.
The views expressed here are those of the author and are not necessarily those of TechRadarPro or Future plc. If you are interested in contributing find out more here: https://www.techradar.com/pro/perspectives-how-to-submit
When the Sony WH-1000XM6 dropped last year, they had some big expectations to live up to.
They followed up a pair of headphones that had proven somewhat divisive, in the Sony WH-1000XM5. This model left some wearers conflicted owing to the lack of foldability, limited new features, and smaller 30mm drivers, in spite of stepping up in terms of looks and still offering great sound. For me, the XM5 just didn’t quite feel like the statement headphones that the legendary Sony WH-1000XM4 were — and in my view, the real task of the XM6 was to live up to the brilliance of that model.
And what do you know, Sony really did it — the company finally delivered a pair of XM4-beating headphones. The XM6 blended the beauty of the XM5 with the practical design of the XM4, all while delivering substantially better audio than their predecessors, alongside far greater noise cancelling capabilities and a more fleshed-out feature set.
And even though it’s been a year now, the XM6 remain my go-to headphones — even after hearing other flagship kids on the block, including the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones Gen 2, Apple AirPods Max 2, and even Sony’s own 1000X The Collexion cans. But why do I keep reaching for the XM6? And what really sets them apart from the competition? Well, I’ll get to all of that and more as we take a look at my year of listening with the XM6.
What’s so special about the XM6?
(Image credit: Future)
For the uninitiated, allow me to give you the run down on the Sony WH-1000XM6. These are Sony’s best noise-cancelling cans to date, and even on flights, they can easily dispatch low-end rumble, high-pitched clamors, and sudden noises like doors closing. If you’re at the office, things like colleagues chatting, typing sounds, and vehicles passing outside the window will be drastically dulled too — if not totally inaudible.
That’s thanks to Sony’s QN3 noise-cancelling processor, which harnesses a system of 12 microphones to deliver some of the best ANC on the market right now.
The QN3 processor also features a noise-shaper, which pre-empts sudden sound changes, resulting in a more controlled listening experience. Pair that with LDAC for ‘hi-res’ Bluetooth listening as well as a more balanced sound signature than the XM5 and XM4 offered — in part thanks to Sony’s collaboration with leading mastering engineers — and you’re getting amazing audio from the XM6.
As you’d expect, these headphones aren’t producing true studio-grade neutrality or fidelity, but they sound more composed right across the frequency range. Still, bass is phenomenally dynamic and punchy, treble is vibrant and articulate, and there’s definitely an exciting listen to be had. Mids are also incredibly rich and well-weighted, and the XM6 offers a wider soundstage than its predecessor, all while supplying a tight and cohesive listen.
Other XM6 headlines include a new, more comfortable headband, the welcome return of foldability, and enhanced call quality. There are six beamforming mics in the XM6, and I’m yet to try any headphones that beat them for clarity and precision in the call quality department.
You also get the features that made the XM6’s predecessors great, including DSEE Extreme upscaling (which boosts the quality of lower-res audio files), scene-based listening, transparency mode, and the most responsive and accurate touch controls around.
How do they compare to the competition?
Here I am, holding up the Sony WH-1000XM6 and a pair of the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (Image credit: Future)
So, the XM6 sound pretty great so far, right? But you might be wondering how they compare against the competition. So, let’s see how they compare against some of their main rivals: the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones Gen 2, the AirPods Max 2, and Sony’s own The Collexion headphones.
Let’s start with the QC Ultra, which are in my view the main competitor to the XM6 — they’re similarly priced, and each have a strong focus on ANC performance. But interestingly, I think this contest is a relatively straightforward one.
When it comes to ANC, these two are on very similar footing. I’d perhaps argue that the QC Ultra can deal with higher-pitched sounds ever-so-slightly better, but I’m talking very fine margins. Conversely, I’d consider the XM6 slightly ahead when it comes to those deeper, darker sounds like engines roaring.
But elsewhere, I think the Sony XM6 are just the better buy. For me, the Bose have a less revealing sound that lacks the refinement and attention to detail Sony can deliver. Sony also supplies better balance across the frequency range, and even more customizable sound, making them my clear favorite sound-wise.
The XM6 also have a more cohesive, sleek, and suave look in my opinion — I’m also more partial to the magnet-lock case that Sony bundles in. Both headphones are well-matched elsewhere, though, offering fully foldable designs, solid security and comfortability in-use, and 30 hours of battery life — essentially the standard for headphones in this price bracket.
Sony WH-1000XM6 next to the Apple AirPods Max 2 (Image credit: Future)
Moving onto the AirPods Max 2 now, and this is where things get interesting. Of course, these headphones have some features that are suited to Apple devices only — such as Spatial Audio and instant pairing — meaning brand loyalists may prefer these. But as someone with an Android phone, this is hardly something I’m interested in.
I’d also argue that the XM6 are generally better all-rounders than the AirPods Max 2. For instance, Apple’s flagship headphones only muster up a measly 20 hours of playtime with ANC on — something that really should’ve been improved from the first generation AirPods Max.
I also find the XM6’s use of precise touch controls to be more intuitive and user-friendly, and their more accessible price is an undeniable plus. The AirPods Max 2 come in at $549 / £499 / AU$999 — quite the increase over the $449 / £349 / AU$699 you’ll pay for the XM6.
The AirPods Max 2 still impressed me though — they offer significantly improved ANC that blocks external noise on a similar level to the XM6, and they performed very well in the audio department. They have a more spacious and expansive soundstage than the XM6, and the bass is full-sounding and beautifully controlled. While the XM6 sound pretty balanced, they undoubtedly retain a slight preference towards bass and treble from previous generations, but I personally prefer their tighter, punchier approach to the low-end.
Sony 1000X The Collexion beside the Sony WH-1000XM6 (Image credit: Future)
It’s an incredibly similar story for Sony’s own 1000X The Collexion headphones, which took aim at the AirPods Max with an incredibly broad, almost three-dimensional soundstage that results in a highly immersive listen.
The Collexion undoubtedly provide stellar detailing and incredible instrument separation, but again, I always reach for the XM6 — I find their dynamism and punch to add a bit more excitement, making funky tracks or hard-hitting anthems come through with more bite.
In addition, The Collexion add very little in the way of features that the XM6 won’t already provide. Sure, they have more 360 Upmix modes, but these sound pretty bad anyway. They also have weaker ANC and lower battery life, largely due to their slimmer build and larger ear cavities.
Don’t get me wrong, The Collexion look great, and their metallic details contrast the faux-leather casing nicely, but for me, the XM6 are stronger overall.
One year later: the verdict
The magnet-lock case for the XM6 is truly excellent (Image credit: Future)
So, even after testing some of the XM6’s biggest rivals, I still reach for them every time. Their combination of class-leading ANC, excellent features, and dynamic, punchy, yet well-balanced audio makes them my go-to time after time.
It’s also worth flagging that after a full year of use, the headphones have held up incredibly well. I can count a total of zero times where I experienced a fault or bug, they don’t have a single scratch (even after being folded and thrown in my bag countless times), and the earcups feel incredibly comfortable, with no signs of degradation whatsoever.
What’s more, I’ve accidentally kept the headphones on during rainy days from time to time, and despite lacking an IP rating, they seemed to have weathered the storm without issue. Would I recommend using them in harsher weather conditions? No. But the fact they’ve stuck it out a couple of times only hammers home their durability and high build quality.
I won’t pretend that the XM6 are cheap by any means. But they genuinely earn their price in every way imaginable. And they do go on sale quite a bit, so if you can find them going for less, I’d strongly suggest snapping them up, and treating yourself to superior sound.
I don't know if you've seen the price of a PlayStation 5 SSD lately, but they're absolutely cooked. Right now prices are easily triple what they were just a few years ago thanks to the pressure caused by AI demand, so I'd recommend other options instead.
This is an external HDD, which means it functions a little differently to a regular SSD, but it's still designed for storing games. It's also officially licensed for PS5, and has a design that matches the console itself to keep your setup looking super slick.
Today's best PS5 storage deal
This officially licenced external PS5 HDD from Seagate is the way to go if you want to upgrade your console storage right now. A quality 4TB PS5 SSD currently costs about £470, making this drive roughly a third of the price for more storage.View Deal
So what makes a PS5 external hard drive different to a PS5 SSD? The main differentiator is that you can't play the PS5 games stored on an external hard drive directly. Instead, they need to be copied back to your internal storage for each use.
It's perfect if you have slow internet speeds and want to avoid lengthy downloads when coming back to large games, which is mainly how I use the Seagate Game Drive hooked up to my own console.
Backwards-compatible PS4 games are playable with no barriers, though, making this a very good choice for those with large libraries of older games they want to keep installed.
Generative AI has moved quickly from experimentation into early production use in many enterprises. However, very few can confidently forecast what it’s going to cost them in six months.
For a technology that has consumed so much board-level attention and capital, that reflects a lack of certainty, and one that some technology leaders may privately recognize as true of their own organizations.
The spend is real and the direction is clear, but the number at the end of the year can remain genuinely uncertain.
To capture a glimmer of the confidence driving the infrastructure race, Amazon’s CEO has indicated it expects to spend heavily on IT infrastructure to support AI, with an estimated $200 billion in AI capital spending, arguing it is “not going to be conservative” in how it invests in the tech.
In practice, what makes AI different from the infrastructure investments that came before it is not the scale of the commitment but the nature of the consumption.
Cloud computing was unpredictable when it arrived too, but it eventually settled into patterns that finance teams could learn to model. AI hasn’t settled in the same way yet, and much of the reason comes down to how it is being used.
A great deal of enterprise AI use remains exploratory, which is part of what makes forecasting harder. And unlike cloud, which stayed largely within technical teams for years before spreading, AI is moving across the whole organisation almost immediately. That changes everything about how you try to govern it.
The limits of financial visibility
On the surface, some forms of AI appear to offer what earlier infrastructure lacked: clean, granular, real-time data and what it costs. But across the rapidly growing landscape of technology providers leveraging AI in some way, many do not.
In some cases, token-based pricing is precise in a way that early cloud billing never was, and for finance teams accustomed to working with far less, it can feel like a step in the right direction for solving the visibility problem.
We unfortunately still have a long way to go, since simply understanding what was spent last month tells you very little about what will be spent next quarter, particularly once adoption moves beyond the teams who originally shaped the business case.
One must consider that teams across legal, HR, and customer operations are not thinking about token economics (tokenomics). They’re only thinking about whether the tool works.
Cost exposure builds not through any single decision but through dozens of small expansions, each reason in isolation, none of them reflected in a comprehensive forecast. By the time anyone joins the dots, the demand curve has already moved.
Extending the disciplines that already exist
The organizations who are doing a better job managing AI spend have tenured experience managing consumption-based technology. IT asset management (ITAM) teams for example often have more experience dealing with more fixed constructs like users or seats, which makes the consumption-based nature of AI far more challenging.
FinOps teams on the other hand have grounded experience in managing consumption that originated in public cloud. FinOps teams may therefore better positioned to deal with the new tsunami of AI consumption and spending, ensuring that it is governed as adoption scales.
FinOps has also been broadening its scope beyond the initial roots in public cloud, with AI cost management now sitting firmly within that remit for many, a shift reflected in how the FinOps Foundation is increasingly incorporating AI into its guidance. Part of that expansion is about forecasting demand that behaves differently from conventional workloads.
There is also growing interest in whether AI itself can support FinOps practices, particularly in anomaly detection, optimization and, over time, forecasting, as consumption patterns become harder to model.
The challenge is applying FinOps practices early enough so that governance shapes how AI scales, rather than scrambling to restore control once spend has already outpaced oversight.
The compounding difficulty of legacy environments
For organizations whose technology estates were built around consistency, extending governance into AI is harder than it sounds.
AI-first organizations design with cost in mind from the beginning, treating inference the way they would any other product input, with economic constraints shaping architecture decisions before commitments are made.
Retrofitting AI into legacy infrastructure means something different. Existing commercial commitments and operating models do not adapt quickly to a consumption model that is inherently variable, and that friction has a direct bearing on cost.
The difficulty is often that AI is being introduced into environments built around very different assumptions about how demand behaves, and that is part of what makes forecasting harder.
The challenge is not simply new spend, but expenditure ballooning in environments where oversight and control are already difficult to maintain.
Organizations navigating this will tend to run controlled experiments before broad rollout and are deliberate about how adoption spreads. In practice, that is often about containing unmanaged adoption early, before usage patterns, costs and dependencies become harder to unwind.
That same exposure increasingly carries beyond internal governance. As AI appears more often in customer procurement conversations, questions that were once largely internal are starting to be probed externally too.
For organizations whose governance has not kept pace, those questions can force a level of clarity they may not yet be prepared to provide.
From activity metrics to business outcomes
Beyond governance and cost control, there remains a harder question, which is whether AI investment is producing meaningful business value. Most leadership teams are not yet in a position to answer that with confidence, and the metrics currently reaching the board are not making it easier.
Model usage, inference volumes and compute consumed describe activity without explaining value. It is easy to build a compelling board update from consumption data without addressing whether any of it is moving the business.
What gets closer to an answer is understanding whether individual inferences are delivering something a customer would pay for, or something that meaningfully reduces cost or risk.
Incremental business outcome per pound or dollar of AI spend is a harder measure to produce, but it is closer to the economics that matter because it requires a clearer position on what AI is actually delivering.
That is precisely where many organizations are still finding the work harder than it looks, particularly as AI deployment moves ahead of the models used to understand cost and value.
That disconnect matters more as the market expands, because where those economics remain unclear, cost exposure can build in ways that are harder to recognize early and harder to contain later.
For many enterprises, the challenge ahead is scaling AI without allowing spend to outrun the value it is meant to create.
This article was produced as part of TechRadar Pro Perspectives, our channel to feature the best and brightest minds in the technology industry today.
The views expressed here are those of the author and are not necessarily those of TechRadarPro or Future plc. If you are interested in contributing find out more here: https://www.techradar.com/pro/perspectives-how-to-submit
I've been trying out Amazon's latest — and possibly greatest — e-reader, the Kindle Scribe Colorsoft, and while I love it for reading comics in full colour and note-taking, I've been waiting patiently for Amazon Prime Day to see how the device fares in the megasale.
As expected, it's seen a sizeable discount; 20% off, knocking it from £629.99 to £504.99, which is, to be honest, much closer to the value proposition I think the slate offers. Still, though, it's pricey for what it is; and the fact that it's actually cheaper right now to buy a Kindle, Kindle Scribe and a Kindle Colorsoft separately leaves me perplexed.
While we scored it a respectable 4 stars in our review, a major sticking point for the Scribe Colorsoft is its value proposition. There's nowehere near enough going for it to justify this e-reader costing more than a MacBook Neo. View Deal
For the pared-back basic experience, the most recent Kindle (2024) scored 4 stars in our review as an affordable and capable e-reader. It's compact enough to stash in your hand luggage while travelling, performance is solid, and it taps into Amazon's vast library of books. View Deal
A notetaker's best friend, the Kindle Scribe is great for students, avid readers and productivity users alike, offering a satisfying and slick screen on which to doodle and annotate. We scored it 4.5 stars in our review.View Deal
If you mostly want the colour screen, you'll be just fine with the Kindle Coloursoft; as a comic reader, this is really all I want and need from my Kindle. While you can't ever match the vibrancy of an LCD or OLED screen in e-ink, it's a valiant effort that earned the device 4.5 stars in our review.View Deal
While not a factor in the Kindle Scribe Colorsoft pricing hoo-ha, it's worth noting the Kindle Paperwhite is also on sale with a neat £35 discount. We scored this model 4-stars in our review, praising its bright, white screen and long battery life.View Deal
The Kindle Scribe Colorsoft isn't without its selling points entirely; if you really do want to read comics and take notes on one device, it's the only Kindle that offers both functions... just not in tandem, so you can't annotate comics or manga.
That means the main benefit is access to colour pens and highlighters, which isn't a big enough sell for me to drop half a grand on an e-reader.
If you were looking to get your hands on a PlayStation 5 ahead of the Grand Theft Auto 6 pre-order date this week, then thisAmazon Prime Day deal is for you. Right now you can grab the console at a 16% discount over at Amazon, which takes its price down to just £479 (was £569.99).
It's not the cheapest PS5 we've ever seen, but with the recent price increases, it's likely going to be the lowest it's available for some time. This is the Slim 1TB version of the console as well, with a disc reader fitted so you can buy the physical version of GTA 6 to keep on your shelf.
The deal is only on for a limited time, and stock is already flying off the shelves - with just under half of the available units sold already. This is a deal I'd recommend snapping up quickly!
Today's best PS5 deal
A chunky discount on the PS5 Slim here, with 1TB storage and the disc reader attachment included out of the box. With recent price hikes, this is likely the cheapest the console will be ahead of GTA 6 pre-orders.View Deal
Amazon's Prime Day sale is here (running from June 23 to 26, and exclusive to Prime members), and if a 360 camera has been on your wish list, it's the perfect time to act. Two of Insta360's best models are getting solid discounts in the sale — but the one I'd actually put in my basket might not be the one you're expecting.
I reviewed the Insta360 X5 last year, and its low-light performance was the standout feature for me. It remains, in my view, the best all-rounder Insta360 makes. At 21% off ($434.99, down from $549.99 for the Standard Bundle, a $115 saving), it's a pretty tempting buy in the Prime Day Sale.
But my colleague Peter Fenech has since put the newer Insta360 X4 Air through its paces, and with Prime Day discounts of 25% on the Standard Bundle ($299.99 at Amazon, down from $399.99) and 26% on the Starter Bundle ($324.99, down from $439.99, also a $115 saving), I think it's the smarter buy for most people.
The Insta360 X5 and X4 Air are both superb 360 cameras, and they're currently both on sale for Prime Day. (Image credit: Future / Peter Fenech)
A baby X5, in the best sense
The X4 Air inherits a lot of what made the X5 so appealing. It uses the same easy-to-swap lens replacement system (which can be a real lifesaver if you scrape a lens on the ground), and it's waterproof to the same 15m depth without a housing.
At 165g, it's also noticeably lighter than the X5's 200g. It's not a huge number on paper, but you'll feel the difference after an hour of holding a selfie stick overhead.
The real divergence is in sensor size. The X5 uses larger 1/1.28-inch sensors, while the X4 Air steps down to 1/1.8-inch (still bigger than the original X4's sensors, for context). In daylight, you'd struggle to tell the two apart. It's only once the light fades that the gap opens up, with the X5's PureVideo mode giving it around a two-stop low-light advantage over the X4 Air.
That sounds like a point in the X5's favor, and it is. But I think that the vast majority of 360 footage gets shot in daylight — think travel clips, bike rides, beach days, family get-togethers — and the X4 Air handles all of that with ease. Peter was impressed by its image quality overall, and found its low-light performance better than expected even without PureVideo on board.
On the battery life front, the X5's larger 2,400mAh battery wins out for marathon sessions: its Endurance Mode can run for over three hours at 5.7K, versus around 105 minutes for the X4 Air with the same settings. But at 8K/30fps (the resolution most people will actually shoot in), both cameras land at roughly 90 minutes.
The X4 Air is slightly lighter than the X5, which will feel like a benefit on a long day of shooting. (Image credit: Future)
If you're a professional creator, you regularly shoot in low light, or you simply want the best 360 camera Insta360 currently makes, the X5 at 21% off remains an easy recommendation.
But if this is your first 360 camera, or you want something that genuinely disappears into a pocket, the X4 Air gives you almost everything that made the X5 special, for $100 to $135 less. That's where my money would be going this Prime Day.
Today's best Insta360 X4 Air and X5 deals (US)
Taking many of the X5 features but squeezing them into a smaller body, there's plenty to like about the X4 Air, especially with its first major discounts for Prime Day, now 25% off. View Deal
For 360-degree action cameras, it doesn't get any better than the X5 from Insta360. With huge sensors, the X5 delivers 8K video and excels in low light. It's also feature-rich with replaceable lenses to boot. Save $85 on the best action camera for shooting in 360.View Deal
Today's best Insta360 X4 Air and X5 deals (UK)
There's also 25% off the X4 Air for shoppers in the UK, taking the base package price down to a record-low £269. Not bad for a 'baby X5'.View Deal
My favorite 360 camera, with a healthy 25% off — it doesn't get any better! With huge sensors, the X5 delivers 8K video and excels in low light. It's also feature-rich with replaceable lenses to boot. Save $85 on the best action camera for shooting in 360.View Deal
Agentic AI is moving rapidly from boardroom ambition to enterprise reality.
Gartner forecasts that roughly 40% of enterprise applications will incorporate task-specific AI agents this year, up from just 5% last year.
This surge forces every CIO, CISO, and technology leader to consider: What should AI be allowed to access, and how should it operate once inside the enterprise?
Many organizations begin by embedding AI agents directly into legacy systems, connecting them to backend databases, APIs, and workflows in the name of speed.
While this inline approach can work in modern, well-governed environments, it often bypasses the approval workflows and controls that legacy systems were built around. Agents can access restricted data, skip approvals, or execute transactions without a complete, attributable record.
The result is a growing governance gap. Decisions tied to sensitive data can’t be reliably reconstructed or defended with the same confidence as human-driven work. Even advanced models stall in pilots because organizations can’t prove how outcomes were produced.
The solution is not to slow AI adoption. It’s to change how AI interacts with the systems that already run the business.
When AI bypasses the system, it breaks it
Consider a finance workflow in an ERP software system. An agent updates vendor bank details and pushes a payment through a fast-track path, bypassing a required approval step and segregation-of-duties check. Later, when the transaction is questioned, the organization can’t prove who approved the change, why it was made, or whether proper controls were followed.
That’s where accountability breaks down. Changes are made inside core systems, but the evidence is incomplete, inconsistent, or disconnected from the system of record.
Emulated human behavior offers a more secure and practical path. These agents operate exactly as a human employee would: logging in with standard credentials, navigating the existing user interface, reading screens in context, following established workflows, and executing tasks while remaining fully subject to every control already in place.
No new APIs. No raw backend data exposure. No rewriting of decades-old business logic or security rules. The guardrails designed to protect against human error or misuse — validations, permissions, approvals, and audit logging — remain 100% intact.
This UI-first approach is especially effective for organizations running mission-critical processes on older platforms. Building secure, governed APIs for legacy systems is expensive and time-consuming, often leaving out protections built into the interface layer.
While emulated human agents may not match the speed of direct backend calls, they provide far more valuable enterprise advantages: immediate deployability, ironclad accountability, and zero disruption to proven controls. Secure operation doesn’t require avoiding AI. It requires rethinking how it fits into the systems around it.
Preparing for emulated human in the enterprise
Three priorities can help organizations prepare for the emulated human approach as AI scales into critical workflows.
1. Place AI at the points where work happens
Most enterprise AI strategies assume deeper backend integration creates better automation. In environments shaped by legacy systems, it often does the opposite: introducing new complexity while bypassing the workflows and controls already built into the interface layer.
Instead, focus AI at the points where it can operate without requiring systems to be rebuilt. This approach dramatically reduces integration overhead, limits exposure of core systems, and allows AI to scale within existing operating models rather than forcing costly modernization.
2. Align AI accountability with human accountability
Agents should operate under named identities and the same policies as employees. They preserve approval workflows, follow role-based permissions, and generate the same audit artifacts — including log entries, change histories, tickets, and recorded approvals — that organizations already rely on to review human activity.
This removes the dangerous two-tier governance model where AI operates under different standards than employees. Organizations can maintain visibility, accountability, and established compliance and risk management controls as AI takes on greater responsibility.
3. Design for adaptability rather than brittle automation
Traditional robotic process automation (RPA) relied on rigid, click-by-click scripts that broke the moment screens changed or exceptions appeared. Emulated human agents interpret context in real time, adjust to variation, and continue operating, just as skilled employees do.
That adaptability is essential in dynamic enterprise environments where policies change, exceptions are common, and systems are rarely static. Instead of constant break/fix maintenance, organizations gain AI that can operate more resiliently inside real-world workflows.
Scaling AI with the systems already in place
As agentic AI scales, enterprises will be judged not only by the intelligence of their systems but by their ability to govern them. The pressure to balance innovation with control will only intensify.
The most durable strategies will be those that embed AI safely within the systems already in place, rather than racing around them. When an agent’s actions can be audited and justified with the same rigor applied to a human colleague, it’s finally ready for production.
That’s how secure, scalable AI will be defined in the enterprise.
This article was produced as part of TechRadar Pro Perspectives, our channel to feature the best and brightest minds in the technology industry today.
The views expressed here are those of the author and are not necessarily those of TechRadarPro or Future plc. If you are interested in contributing find out more here: https://www.techradar.com/pro/perspectives-how-to-submit
I'm back here again. Another year and another Amazon Prime Day sale is upon us. What started as a 24-hour event is now a four-day extravaganza, with offers available across TVs, laptops, appliances, fashion, wearables and a mountain of the retailer's own-brand tech.
As someone who's spent an embarrassing number of years covering the sale (I think I must be up to nine now), I've got a good idea of what to expect from Prime Day and how you can make the most of it to bag a bargain or two.
That's what I'm here to help with, using my near-decade of Prime Day expertise and deals-hunting experience to bring you all the offers that are actually worth spending your money on — whether you want a new vacuum or Kindle, fancy treating yourself to a cheap treat, or want to stock up on essentials.
I've been tracking all the top early deals from last week and many of those are still live right now. Amazon also dropped a ridiculous number of new offers at midnight, so I've sifted through a few categories now to find the real diamonds.
I'll continue offering live updates throughout the week with all of my recommendations, as and when I find more deals that catch my eye. And I'll also tap up TechRadar's team of experts to share their top picks based on their favourite items they've tested or use every day.
All of the deals you see are hand-picked by myself or the team, using price tracking information and our years of combined tech knowledge to filter out all of the rubbish and only show you the deals that are genuinely worth the cash.
This excellent value bundle includes a Blink Outdoor 4 security camera and a Blink Video Doorbell at an incredibly low price. It's one of my top picks from this year's early Prime Day deals if you want to dabble with some cheap smart home tech. The 4th-generation outdoor security camera features two-way audio, a two-year battery life, and works with Amazon Alexa for hands-free control and interconnectivity with other smart devices. Meanwhile, the Blink Video Doorbell is a cheap and easy way to get alerts to your phone when motion is detected or when guests are at your door.View Deal
The PS5 is the console I use the most and it's now got a limited-time deal at Amazon — although recent price hikes mean it's not as cheap as we've seen before. However, if you're looking to get a console for GTA 6 later this year, this is likely going to be one of the lowest prices out there. This is just the console by itself and has everything you need to get started, including a controller and all cables. It's now hit over 80% claimed, so I wouldn't wait much longer.View Deal
The Philips OneBlade 360 is a quick, simple and affordable electric razor that's suitable for a wide variety of face and body grooming needs. This jam-packed bundle is now down to the lowest price I've ever seen, making it a great buy. Even more so, as this bundle includes the handle, as well as two spare blades, three combs, a body kit, and a USB-A charging cable.View Deal
The latest version of the standard Kindle is on sale as part of the annual Prime Day sale. It's a basic ereader, but it still boasts a four-week battery life and space for thousands of books. Given it's £55 cheaper than the Paperwhite, this is clearly a better pick for the infrequent reader who's after a more budget-friendly option. At £80, though, this Prime Day deal is a little underwhelming, given it's been as low as £69.99 before.View Deal
We've tested other walking pads and treadmills from Mobvoi and are huge fans. This is a great low price for the manufacturer's basic walking pad, which is easy to assemble, easy to use, and well-constructed. It's a great way to get your steps in while working, or when the cold months set in and you can keep up your fitness levels at home.View Deal
Here's an awesome record-low price for an excellent 4K drone that's ideal for beginners. As well as the drone, this package includes one battery, and an RC-N1C controller. That's everything you need to be up and running in no time at all. If you've been thinking of buying a drone for a while but never taking the leap, now is the best time to go all in.View Deal
As the successor to the excellent LG B4, the B5 is one of the best budget OLED TVs you can buy. This 55-inch model offers a good option for most spaces if you don't want the screen to dominate the room. Picture quality is excellent, with impressive brightness, strong contrast, and rich blacks for general viewing and sports, while the gaming features are top-tier for a smooth and responsive experience on PS5, Switch 2, and Xbox consoles.View Deal
This weather makes an ice-cold drink extremely appealing right now, and the unique Ninja Slushi just fell back to its Black Friday price at Amazon. This kitchen appliance makes all sorts of chilled and frozen drinks, including juices, cocktails, milkshakes, and more. We loved it in our Ninja Slushi review, praising its ability to make quick and delicious drinks easily in a fun and entertaining package.View Deal
The Suri 2.0 Sonic Electric Toothbrush is 25% off at Amazon for Prime Day. This is a strong offer for the fantastic, eco-friendly alternative to other electric toothbrushes. In fact, we scored it four-and-a-half out of five in our Suri 2.0 Sonic Toothbrush review. I've found that it performs and cleans well, offers an impressive 40-day battery life, fast wireless charging over USB-C, a useful pressure sensor, and comes with handy extras like a magnetic wall mount and UV cleaning travel case.View Deal
I'm not sure how I feel about smart rings, but our fitness editor, Matt Evans, is a big fan of the Oura Ring 4. He said it was "nearly the perfect fitness tracker" in our review, praising the design, ease-of-use, long-lasting battery and detailed health information it offers. This fascinating bit of tech is now down to its lowest-ever price on Amazon.View Deal
This is a great price for a relatively modern laptop that comes with a well-performing Intel Core i5 CPU. On top of that, you get 16GB of RAM, a 512GB SSD for storage, and incredible battery life, which represents good value for money overall. It's slightly larger with the 16-inch display, which could hamper portability, but it's a solid everyday machine for the price.View Deal
The G50 is very budget-friendly even at full price, but now it's even more so thanks to this deal, which takes it under £100. A maximum suction of 4,000Pa is extremely good for the price, and the onboard bin is surprisingly generously sized at 600ml. For this price, expect basic navigation and a design suited to general whole-home cleans rather than anything more specific. Although we haven't reviewed this specific model yet, we generally rate Eufy highly as a brand, and the value for money is impressive.View Deal
If you want more affordable over-ears that don't compromise on quality, then consider these Bose QuietComfort Headphones while they are down to their lowest price this year at Amazon. As with the Ultra version, you get impressive noise cancellation, top-tier audio quality and 24 hours of battery life, but in a much more affordable package that's never been as low as this before..View Deal
I recently upgraded to a similar gaming monitor from MSI — and I haven't looked back. There are definitely bigger and better monitors out there, but you get serious value for money with this MAG 325CQPF. It's a large 32-inch curved display, with support for up to 1440p resolution, a max refresh rate of 180Hz, and a response time of 0.5ms for smooth and responsive gaming. As far as budget gaming monitors go, it's hard to beat at this price.View Deal
Amazon Prime Day — Top deals under £50
This small yet powerful desk fan is a great buy while it's dropped below £30 for Prime Day. While its smaller size means it won't be the most powerful option out there, it does mean it'll easily fit on a side table or your desk and keep you at a comfortable temperature.View Deal
I've seen a lot of people talk about and use Loop earplugs lately so if you want to see what the fuss is all about then this entry-level pair is down to a record-low price. Use them to block out noise on a commute, help you focus in the office, protect your ears from loud music at bars or concerts, or help you create a better environment for sleep. They're reusable and can last for up to five years so a good investment if you'll be a regular user.View Deal
The latest wireless Ring Doorbell has been discounted to a new record-low price for Prime Day. We've tested this and have been impressed with the video quality, high zoom, and night vision colour, but it's a shame that some of this device's value is usable exclusively with a Ring Protect subscription. However, if you're fine with paying for a subscription or already using a Ring-based home security system, it's worth the cost.View Deal
Can you ever have too many USB cables? The box full of them under my desk would suggest you can. However, if you want a couple more to leave around the house or take with you when out and about, this pair of USB-C to USB-A cables from top brand Anker is now super-cheap for Prime Day.View Deal
Get the highly rated Renpho smart scale on sale for under £20 for Prime Day. The smart scale has over 300,000 reviews on Amazon and holds a solid 4.5-star rating. You can use this smart device to measure your body fat ratio, BMI, and weight via the Renpho app.View Deal
Amazon's new Fire TV Stick 4K Plus streams shows and movies to your TV in ultra-high-definition 4K resolution. This updated version now supports Dolby Vision for improved colours, Wi-Fi 6 for better connectivity, and includes 2GB of RAM for faster performance. This Prime Day deal is a new record-low price and excellent value for an all-around streaming device.View Deal
If you want a cheap and basic hair dryer, then it's hard to go wrong with this BaByliss Power Smooth Hair Dryer for under £22 ahead of Prime Day. It has all the essential features you need, with powerful, fast drying and a lightweight design that makes it easy to use.View Deal
What's better than 99 AA batteries for cheap? How about a flat 100 AA batteries for a super-low price? Sure, not many people are getting excited about buying batteries, but if you need to stock up, then now's a great time to do so while you can bag so many at such a bargain price.View Deal
The Ninja Blast Portable Blender is a powerful all-in-one portable blender – and it's now down to a great low price for Prime Day. It has a 530ml container with a leakproof lid and sip spout, while the carry handle means you can take it with you to the gym or on your walks. It’s capable of blending ice and frozen fruit, as well as any liquids and powders, while one charge gives you up to two hours of battery life.View Deal
This half-price offer gets you an easy-to-install Ring Indoor Camera for a new low price. The Alexa-enabled plug-in security camera features motion-activated notifications, 2K resolution video support, a privacy cover and two-way talk to allow you to see, hear and communicate throughout your home.View Deal
I actually bought a Levoit Core Mini for myself when moving into a new house that hadn't been lived in for a while to get rid of the dust and debris, and I also think it works as a great option for any allergy problems. What I like most is that it's small and quiet, so it is perfect for all sorts of spaces, such as the living room and bedroom. It's now also very affordable at 15% off.View Deal
If you want a cheap and basic Bluetooth speaker, then you can't go wrong with this Anker Soundcore 2 for under £25. Sure, it's not going to give you the biggest and boldest audio quality, but it's still a solid option at an affordable price. Battery life is an impressive 24 hours, too, so it's great to use around the home or take it with you when on the go.View Deal
Amazon Prime Day — Appliances
This weather makes an ice-cold drink extremely appealing right now, and the unique Ninja Slushi just fell back to its Black Friday price at Amazon. This kitchen appliance makes all sorts of chilled and frozen drinks, including juices, cocktails, milkshakes, and more. We loved it in our Ninja Slushi review, praising its ability to make quick and delicious drinks easily in a fun and entertaining package.View Deal
Sage makes some of the best coffee machines we've ever tested here at TechRadar, so I definitely want to shout out this offer on its excellent The Barista Express. We awarded it 4.5 stars in our review for its ease of use, bevvy of customisable settings and tasty results. While it's still a pricey machine, it's worth the investment if you really want to get into your coffee-making at home.View Deal
The Ninja Foodi Max is the ultimate air fryer for many and it's now down to a great low price at Amazon. It offers six different functions, including Max Crisp, air frying, roasting, baking, reheating, and dehydrating. With two baskets, you get two independent cooking zones with the option to have them sync or match up, depending on your needs. Its extra large capacity is perfect for family cooking or batch cooking as it gives you plenty of room for a 2kg chicken or 1.4kg of fries in each compartment.View Deal
Ninja's recent space-saving air fryer is just £5 more than its lowest-ever price, which is still a bit of a steal for the popular and well-rated appliance. We loved it at TechRadar, scoring it full marks in our Ninja Double Stack Air Fryer review and even putting it in our best air fryer buying guide. Well-built and great-looking on any countertop, it offers five cooking levels across two drawers and two racks, while the 9.5L capacity is ideal for medium to big families.View Deal
Here's a best-ever discount on Ninja's portable air fryer — and a great Prime Day deal. This bundle includes the PowerPod lid, plus two resealable glass containers to carry your dishes until you're ready to cook. According to our testing, it cooks exceptionally quickly, is easy to use and a breeze to clean, making this one of the best air fryer deals I've seen this year.View Deal
I've got one of those AnySharp knife sharpeners to keep my kitchen knives up to scratch, but if you want to go all the way with a convenient knife block with a built-in sharpener, then this is a great price for a premium set from Ninja. You'll never suffer from dull knives again with this extremely handy kitchen gadget, with its six-piece set of stainless steel knives and included paring scissors.View Deal
The Ninja Blast Portable Blender is a powerful all-in-one portable blender – and it's now down to a great low price for Prime Day. It has a 530ml container with a leakproof lid and sip spout, while the carry handle means you can take it with you to the gym or on your walks. It’s capable of blending ice and frozen fruit, as well as any liquids and powders, while one charge gives you up to two hours of battery life.View Deal
A smart kettle feels like a bit of a gimmick, but if you make a variety a different hot drinks that taste better when brewed at specific temperatures, then I could see a reason why you'd want to invest in this Ninja Perfect Temperature Kettle. With this discount, it's much easier to justify a purchase compared to the steep full price.View Deal
The Shark Detect Clean & Empty Cordless Vacuum offers convenient automation features and versatile cleaning technology, including a special brushroll that works on both hardwood and carpeted surfaces. Its self-emptying dock doubles as a charging station, which makes it easy to keep fully charged, even though it runs for up to 40 minutes at full battery. For under £200, it's hard to pass up such a high-tech and highly rated vacuum.View Deal
The G50 is very budget-friendly even at full price, but now it's even more so thanks to this deal, which takes it under £100. A maximum suction of 4,000Pa is extremely good for the price, and the onboard bin is surprisingly generously sized at 600ml. For this price, expect basic navigation and a design suited to general whole-home cleans rather than anything more specific. Although we haven't reviewed this specific model yet, we generally rate Eufy highly as a brand, and the value for money is impressive.View Deal
I actually bought a Levoit Core Mini for myself when moving into a new house that hadn't been lived in for a while to get rid of the dust and debris, and I also think it works as a great option for any allergy problems. What I like most is that it's small and quiet, so it is perfect for all sorts of spaces, such as the living room and bedroom. It's now also very affordable at 15% off.View Deal
Amazon Prime Day — Amazon Devices
Amazon Kindle Unlimited: free for three months Save £24 and get yourself unlimited access to over a million books, magazines, and audiobooks for three months with this exclusive deal for Prime members ahead of Amazon Prime Day. Read and download books onto any Kindle, iOS, Android, PC or Mac and enjoy offline reading anywhere with this rare extended free trial.View Deal
Audible membership:free for three months at Audible Audible is Amazon's premier storefront for audiobooks, with a vast library of over 1 million titles. Right now, as part of an early Amazon Prime Day promotion, Prime members can get a full three months of membership on the house! Normally costing £5.99, the standard membership includes unlimited access to the non-Plus library and one free book token per month.View Deal
This excellent value bundle includes a Blink Outdoor 4 security camera and a Blink Video Doorbell at an incredibly low price. It's one of my top picks from this year's early Prime Day deals if you want to dabble with some cheap smart home tech. The 4th-generation outdoor security camera features two-way audio, a two-year battery life, and works with Amazon Alexa for hands-free control and interconnectivity with other smart devices. Meanwhile, the Blink Video Doorbell is a cheap and easy way to get alerts to your phone when motion is detected or when guests are at your door.View Deal
The new Blink Mini 2K+ has a couple of nice upgrades compared to the previous model, including an in-built spotlight, night view in colour support and the option to use it outdoors with the weather-resistant adaptor. Aside from that, it offers the same raft of security features such as motion detection, two-way audio and smartphone app integration. Get it now for a record-low price.View Deal
The Blink Outdoor Camera 2K+ is packed with the essentials. It has 2K video clarity, so you can see what’s going on more clearly. You can also zoom in on what’s happening with 4X zoom, before using the two-way audio to talk to a delivery person or whoever is spotted. It’s simple to set up and weatherproof, with two AA batteries powering the device for up to two years.View Deal
The latest wireless Ring Doorbell has been discounted to a new record-low price for Prime Day. We've tested this and have been impressed with the video quality, high zoom, and night vision colour, but it's a shame that some of this device's value is usable exclusively with a Ring Protect subscription. However, if you're fine with paying for a subscription or already using a Ring-based home security system, it's worth the cost.View Deal
The newest Ring Battery Doorbell Plus model drops to £50 in Amazon's latest sale. Its camera features 1536p HD resolution, night vision with color, and an improved motion sensor. It also includes an increased head-to-toe field of view of 150 by 150 degrees.View Deal
Amazon's best-selling Echo Dot is down to under £30 for Prime Day – an OK offer, but far from the previous record-low of £22.99. Nevertheless, the Echo Dot offers an improved audio experience, plus a new temperature sensor and all the handy features from Alexa, like playing music, answering questions, and checking the weather completely hands-free. As far as a cheap and cheerful smart speaker goes, it's one of the better options out there.View Deal
Amazon's Echo Spot smart clock is £25 off for Spring Deal Days — that drops it to £10 more than the record-low price. As well as a time display and wake-up alerts, this compact bit of kit can play music, check the weather and control other smart devices throughout your home.View Deal
You can get the upgraded version of Amazon's standard Fire TV Stick for £19.99 — a new record-low price. In our Fire TV Stick review, we found the original version was a cheap way to add essential smart features to your TV, including access to streaming apps in HD, Alexa voice controls, and the ability to control other smart home devices.View Deal
Amazon's newest 4K streaming stick is down to within £2 of its lowest-ever price for Prime Day. Considering it's only a few quid more than the cheaper HD version, you might as well pay for the upgrade and get access to higher resolution streaming — as long as you have a 4K TV. It lacks a few premium features found in the more expensive Plus and Max models, such as improved Wi-Fi and Dolby Atmos, but this is more than enough to cover general everyday use.View Deal
Amazon's new Fire TV Stick 4K Plus streams shows and movies to your TV in ultra-high-definition 4K resolution. This updated version now supports Dolby Vision for improved colours, Wi-Fi 6 for better connectivity, and includes 2GB of RAM for faster performance. This Prime Day deal is a new record-low price and excellent value for an all-around streaming device.View Deal
This is a return to the record-low price for Amazon's premium streaming device. The Fire TV Stick 4K Max streams the same content at the same quality as the standard 4K version, but the extra power inside delivers faster app navigation. Plus, it uses Wi-Fi 6E technology to deliver a more stable, consistent streaming experience.View Deal
The latest version of the standard Kindle is on sale as part of the annual Prime Day sale. It's a basic ereader, but it still boasts a four-week battery life and space for thousands of books. Given it's £55 cheaper than the Paperwhite, this is clearly a better pick for the infrequent reader who's after a more budget-friendly option. At £80, though, this Prime Day deal is a little underwhelming, given it's been as low as £69.99 before.View Deal
Amazon has brought back its decent — but not spectacular — Black Friday deal on the latest Kindle Paperwhite for Amazon Prime Day. We found in our Kindle Paperwhite review that it's packed with features to suit all avid readers, including a 12-week battery life, glare-free 7-inch screen, adjustable warm light, and storage space for thousands of books. This is a good buy and one of the best ereaders out there; it's just a shame that the days of even bigger discounts are well in the past.View Deal
The Kindle Colorsoft just fell to its lowest-ever price as part of this year's Amazon Prime Day sale. As Amazon's first colored Kindle, it's a must-have if you love reading travel guides, graphic novels, and other genres with a lot of images and photographs — or just want to view your entire ebook library in its full colour glory. The ereader is also USB-C and wireless charging compatible, lasts up to eight weeks on a full battery, and has enough storage for thousands of books.View Deal
The Blink Video Doorbell is down to its lowest-ever price right now at Amazon, which is great news if you're interested in buying your first smart doorbell. This latest model comes with a head-to-toe HD view, infrared night vision, and two-way audio – all you'd want in a basic video doorbell. You can watch packages get delivered and answer the door in real-time from the Blink app, but you can't save footage without a Blink Subscription or a Sync Module (which you can add for £5). Thankfully, you get a 30-day Blink Subscription Plan trial with your purchase, so you can try before you buy.View Deal
This half-price offer gets you an easy-to-install Ring Indoor Camera for a new low price. The Alexa-enabled plug-in security camera features motion-activated notifications, 2K resolution video support, a privacy cover and two-way talk to allow you to see, hear and communicate throughout your home.View Deal
Amazon Prime Day — Televisions
As the successor to the excellent LG B4, the B5 is one of the best budget OLED TVs you can buy. This 55-inch model offers a good option for most spaces if you don't want the screen to dominate the room. Picture quality is excellent, with impressive brightness, strong contrast, and rich blacks for general viewing and sports, while the gaming features are top-tier for a smooth and responsive experience on PS5, Switch 2, and Xbox consoles.View Deal
Here's a quality and good value big screen TV from Hisense. The QLED displays ensure vibrant colours and excellent brightness, even in a brighter room, while 4K resolution support gives you top-tier picture quality. As far as large TVs go, this is one of the better options I've spotted in the Prime Day sale that balances price and features really well if you're on a tighter budget.View Deal
Amazon has taken the biggest step up in terms of quality with its latest Omni Mini-LED Series Fire TVs. That's clear in the price, which puts these very close to top-end OLED displays from the likes of Sony, Samsung and LG. However, you still get a lot for your money with this Amazon option, including a large 55-inch Mini-LED panel that boasts fantastic contrast, colors and image sharpness, a 144Hz game mode for a fast and responsive experience on consoles, and smart features.View Deal
Amazon's Prime Day sale includes this 32-inch TV on sale for a record-low price of £129.99. While the Amazon 2-Series TV is just a basic HD display, you get smart capabilities with the Fire TV experience and Amazon Alexa on board for hands-free control at a bargain price. It's far from the best TV in the world, but if you need something small and basic for the kitchen or a kid's room, then this is fine for the job.View Deal
The 50-inch Amazon Ember TV is the mid-sized version of the budget-friendly 4-Series range and it's now down to its lowest-ever price. It's a nice buy if you're on a budget, as the premium 4K resolution delivers excellent clarity and picture quality for TV shows, movies, sports and general viewing. All major streaming apps are ready to go, too, plus there's voice control support through Alexa. It's an all-around solid TV for the price that I'd buy if I needed an affordable and capable display.View Deal
Amazon's Ember QLED Series is a big step up in the otherwise cheap and cheerful range of smart TVs. This set boasts premium features, including a QLED display for better brightness and contrast, HDR and Dolby Vision for brighter and more vivid colours, local array dimming for richer blacks and HDMI 2.1 support to deliver a top-quality picture for all-around viewing and fast response times for gaming. It's not always easy to find a TV of this size and with these high-end features for just over £400, so it's an excellent buy for the budget-conscious without compromising on quality.View Deal
Samsung's lineup of Crystal UHD TVs is less feature-rich compared to the pricier OLED and QLED displays, but they are a capable and affordable option for general everyday viewing. This 75-inch model is now available at a tempting low price in the latest Amazon sale if you don't need all the fancy features of a premium TV and just want one of the biggest screens you can buy. For the money, you get a large and modern TV that supports high-quality 4K resolution and all the most popular streaming apps.View Deal
I want to be clear that this is far from the best laptop you can buy, but I can't deny that it's incredibly cheap. The spec is incredibly low-end, with an entry-level processor, only 4GB of RAM and a small 64GB hard drive. At least it's a Chromebook, which can get more from weaker components, but this is only a good buy if you want to spend very little money on a very basic machine for infrequent, light use.View Deal
This version of the Lenovo Chromebook offers an impressive amount of power for the price. It includes a fairly basic Intel Core 3 processor, but you do get 8GB of RAM to boost performance, boot times, and load times. There's also 256GB of storage and battery life is excellent at 12 hours on a single charge. That's more than enough to last a full working day. At close to £200, it's a bargain for school or college, or just as a home laptop that you use for light use and everyday tasks.View Deal
This is a great price for a relatively modern laptop that comes with a well-performing Intel Core i5 CPU. On top of that, you get 16GB of RAM, a 512GB SSD for storage, and incredible battery life, which represents good value for money overall. It's slightly larger with the 16-inch display, which could hamper portability, but it's a solid everyday machine for the price.View Deal
This is a great price for a relatively modern laptop that comes with a well-performing and efficient Snapdragon X CPU. On top of that, you get 16GB of RAM, a surprisingly large 1TB SSD for storage, and incredible battery life, which represents good value for money overall. I like it as a light, portable and capable all-around everyday machine.View Deal
Display - 13 inches Processor - Snapdragon X Plus RAM - 16GB Storage - 512GB
The latest Microsoft Surface Laptop is one of our favourite Windows devices and received a glowing five-stars in our Microsoft Surface Laptop review, so I'm obviously going to call out this solid saving at Amazon. This particular specification includes a powerful Snapdragon X Plus processor, a healthy 16GB of RAM and a reasonable 512GB SSD. That storage feels a little light for the price, but the levels of performance and battery life from the CPU are top-tier to go alongside the swish-looking display and keyboard.View Deal
Amazon Prime Day — Smartwatches
I'm not sure how I feel about smart rings, but our fitness editor, Matt Evans, is a big fan of the Oura Ring 4. He said it was "nearly the perfect fitness tracker" in our review, praising the design, ease-of-use, long-lasting battery and detailed health information it offers. This fascinating bit of tech is now down to its lowest-ever price on Amazon.View Deal
Here's a new record-low price for the Apple Watch SE 3. Apple's cheaper smartwatch is currently our pick for the best Apple Watch to buy if you're on a budget, as it delivers a full health and fitness tracking experience, all the convenient on-wrist features you need, and that familiar Apple style, but at a fraction of the price.View Deal
The latest Apple Watch 11 is down to its lowest-ever price in the latest Amazon Prime Day sale. The thinnest Apple Watch yet, with a wraparound LTP3 OLED display, it's a great-looking watch with Apple Intelligence-powered smarts and a boosted battery compared to previous devices, clocking in at 24 hours of average use.View Deal
The Fitbit Charge 6 is one of the simplest fitness trackers around, but it works very well, and is now back to a record-low price for Prime Day. It has a small screen that shows the time, how many steps you’ve taken, and your current heart rate as well. It’s subtle, so it fits on your wrist well – whether you’re at work or working out. Extensive battery life of up to seven days means minimal hassle, too.View Deal
The Fitbit Versa 4 is down to £119 at Amazon, which is a record-low price for the manufacturer's classic all-purpose smartwatch. It's a great buy for fitness and sleep-tracking enthusiasts, as we wrote in our Fitbit Versa 4 review. It comes with loads of handy connectivity features like Google Wallet, Maps, and Bluetooth calls, as well as six days of battery life, loads of workout profiles, and advanced sleep tracking. View Deal
The discount may be small, but I reckon the Fitbit Inspire 3 will be a popular Prime Day deal at Amazon for this price. It's an excellent value-for-money device for newcomers or those curious about the usefulness of exercise tracking. The battery lasts for a lengthy ten days and it's packed with features and content that a beginner needs to get started.View Deal
Here's a healthy over £100 saving on one of Garmin's best running watches. The smartwatch delivers amazing performance and an abundance of features that accurately track your runs. We also love the AMOLED touchscreen that delivers bright visuals, even on a sunny day.View Deal
The Garmin Venu 3 once sat atop our guide to the best Garmin watches, with our fitness experts calling it "the best for most people". It's now been replaced by the new Venu 4, but this last-gen model still offers an excellent balance of advanced sports metrics and communication features at an affordable price that makes it a true Apple Watch alternative for fitness fans.View Deal
This is the biggest price cut yet on Google's latest and best smartwatch. We scored it an impressive 4.5 stars in our review, praising the unique Actua 360 domed display, the handy in-built Gemini features, and the excellent battery life. It's an all-around solid smartwatch companion if you're pairing it with an Android handset.View Deal
Amazon Prime Day — Headphones
This is a new record-low price for Apple's newest buds. The AirPods 4 feature a new design for all-day comfort and pack Apple's H2 chip, which supports personalized spatial audio and voice isolation. You also get a redesigned case with 30 hours of battery life and support for USB-C for wireless charging. Just be aware that this cheaper version does not support active noise cancellation, so it may be worth paying the extra to get that benefit with the deal below.View Deal
Willing to spend a bit more? Amazon's early Prime Day deals feature the AirPods 4 with active noise cancellation for their lowest price ever. These AirPods 4 feature a new comfortable design, handy controls, and Apple's H2 chip, which supports personalised spatial audio and voice isolation. There's also that all-important ANC to block out distracting noises and outside sounds, which is great when you want to focus at work or are commuting.View Deal
If you want more affordable over-ears that don't compromise on quality, then consider these Bose QuietComfort Headphones while they are down to their lowest price this year at Amazon. As with the Ultra version, you get impressive noise cancellation, top-tier audio quality and 24 hours of battery life, but in a much more affordable package that's never been as low as this before..View Deal
The newer XM6s are a solid upgrade over this older model, but the Sony WH-1000XM5s are still a fantastic pair of headphones — especially at this new low price. You don't get a foldable design, but they're still a comfortable, smart, great-sounding pair of headphones that block outside sound highly effectively.View Deal
Right now, you can grab the incredible Sony WH-1000XM6 for £100 off, making them the cheapest they've ever been. These headphones offer beautifully balanced audio output, top-tier touch controls, ergonomic comfort, and noise-crushing active noise cancellation. They're fantastic all-rounders, as our Sony WH-1000XM6 review digs into.View Deal
Bose's affordable earbuds offer top-tier active noise cancellation, but without a top-tier price tag. In our 4.5-star Bose QuietComfort Earbuds review, we said they were already "arguably best-in-class value" at full price, so for this price they're especially great. We praised their comfort and sound quality as well as the amazing ANC.View Deal
While these Shokz OpenRun aren't the latest model, they are still an impressive pair of bone conduction headphones — and you can get them for less than £100. Their all-purpose functionality means that they are suitable for both running and stationary activities, packing a battery life of eight hours on a full charge. This means that if you enjoy longer training sessions, then they will last the duration of your workout, as well as doing justice to bass-heavy music.View Deal
Treat yourself to one of the best pairs of bone conduction headphones at their lowest-ever price — one that we last saw during Black Friday. Not only do they deliver outstanding sound, but they're also incredibly comfortable. They're highly recommended by our Fitness & Wearables Editor, Matt Evans, and are now more affordable, making them a great buy for runners and gym goers.View Deal
Beats' latest sports earbuds get a nice discount, making it even more tempting to take advantage of their built-in heart-rate sensors, so you can track your runs with minimal other tech on you. In our Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 review, we also liked the head-tracked spatial audio, good stamina, huge range of features, and comfortable and lightweight fit — the latter is obviously super-important for sports headphones, and these deliver.View Deal
Amazon Prime Day — Health & Beauty
I've seen a lot of people talk about and use Loop earplugs lately so if you want to see what the fuss is all about then this entry-level pair is down to a record-low price. Use them to block out noise on a commute, help you focus in the office, protect your ears from loud music at bars or concerts, or help you create a better environment for sleep. They're reusable and can last for up to five years so a good investment if you'll be a regular user.View Deal
The Suri 2.0 Sonic Electric Toothbrush is 25% off at Amazon for Prime Day. This is a strong offer for the fantastic, eco-friendly alternative to other electric toothbrushes. In fact, we scored it four-and-a-half out of five in our Suri 2.0 Sonic Toothbrush review. It performs and cleans well, offers an impressive 40-day battery life, fast wireless charging over USB-C, a useful pressure sensor, and comes with handy extras like a magnetic wall mount and UV cleaning travel case.View Deal
The iO range is usually a more expensive option in Oral-B's range of electric toothbrushes, but this is a decent deal on the entry-level option that's also bundled with a few handy extras. It doesn't boast many high-end features but it has the basic ones you really need to brush your teeth effectively and efficiently, including a two-minute timer and a visible pressure sensor. Plus, you get spare brush head and a carry case included for free.View Deal
The Philips OneBlade 360 is a quick, simple and affordable electric razor that's suitable for a wide variety of face and body grooming needs. This jam-packed bundle is now down to the lowest price I've ever seen, making it a great buy. Even more so, as this bundle includes the handle, as well as two spare blades, three combs, a body kit, and a USB-A charging cable.View Deal
If you want a cheap and basic hair dryer, then it's hard to go wrong with this BaByliss Power Smooth Hair Dryer for under £22 ahead of Prime Day. It has all the essential features you need, with powerful, fast drying and a lightweight design that makes it easy to use.View Deal
Get the highly rated Renpho smart scale on sale for under £20 for Prime Day. The smart scale has over 300,000 reviews on Amazon and holds a solid 4.5-star rating. You can use this smart device to measure your body fat ratio, BMI, and weight via the Renpho app.View Deal
We've tested other walking pads and treadmills from Mobvoi and are huge fans. This is a great low price for the manufacturer's basic walking pad, which is easy to assemble, easy to use, and well-constructed. It's a great way to get your steps in while working, or when the cold months set in and you can keep up your fitness levels at home.View Deal
This starter bundle features the latest reMarkable 2 tablet and Marker Plus Pen for a record-low price. We concluded that this is "the best e-paper note-taking device money can buy" in our four-star review, so it's hard to argue against it while it has such a strong discount. If you want an E-ink screen for your writing or sketching, then it's worth taking advantage of this deal while you can.View Deal
As one of the best GoPro alternatives out there, DJI is pushing the boundaries of what is possible with action cameras. The Osmo Action 4 isn't the latest model, but it's still great in low light, waterproof down to 18m, and has a magnetic mounting system to die for. Even better, at £159, it's now back to its lowest-ever price.View Deal
Back at it again
(Image credit: Future)
Hello! Thanks for joining me for another dive into the deals for Amazon Prime Day. While it may not be as satisfying as a plunge into an ice bath with this upcoming heat wave, I will hopefully be able to bring some joy to you and your bank balance with a hand-picked selection of the top deals worth buying. That'll include some fans, for sure.
It's early days but you can check out the first batch of deals I've found right here. Expect more to come soon, including some top TVs, laptops, headphones, wearables, and so much more.
What's the one deal you need to see this morning?
(Image credit: Shutterstock / Wachiwit)
I wouldn't say there's a single standout deal amongst everything right now that's completely blown me away. However, in terms of deals not to be missed, I'd go with this £90 price cut on the PlayStation 5.
Sure, it's far from the cheapest it's been in the past, given all the recent price hikes, but I don't think we'll see a better offer than this until Black Friday. So, if you were planning to buy a console for GTA 6 (preorders start Thursday, remember), then now looks like a good time to buy — especially as this limited-time deal is selling fast
After any particular deals this Prime Day? Any products you've been hoping will get a discount? Any deals you're struggling to choose between? Any jokes you want to tell to keep me sane for the next 96 hours? Ask all these questions and more in the comments below, and myself or someone with more specialist knowledge will be more than happy to help.
The Amazon devices deals have arrived
(Image credit: Future / Amazon / Blink / Ring / Edited with Gemini)
As is tradition, with every Prime Day sale, Amazon devices have been slashed to some of the lowest prices all year. While not everything is as cheap as it's ever been, there's a good number of smart speakers, doorbells, cameras, and streaming sticks that are now available for super-cheap, with prices starting at £13.99
I'm sure any Prime Day regular won't be surprised to see that several Amazon Kindle models have been discounted for Prime Day. The standard Kindle, premium Kindle Paperwhite, and fancy Kindle Colorsoft have all got decent price cuts — with the Colorsoft being the standout as it drops to a record-low price.
It's been hot lately. It's about to be even hotter. If you're out and about and want a portable fan to take with you, it's hard to beat this Shark ChillPill. I'm still a little taken aback by the price, but after reading how Cat Ellis isn't going anywhere without hers this summer, I can see why it might be worth the cost. At least it stings a little less, now, with £30 off for Prime Day.
Scoring an impressive 4.5-stars in our review, here's your chance to get the fantastic Sony WH-1000XM6 for a record-low price. I'm more than happy with my pair of Bose cans, but there's no denying that these are a tempting buy for audiophiles who love the over-ear design, high-quality audio, and industry-leading noise-cancellation.
I track laptop deals pretty much every week here at TechRadar, and I've spotted some surprisingly strong laptop deals in this year's Prime Day sale. I'm going to highlight a few now, starting with this Asus Chromebook Plus. It's a more basic and budget-friendly option, but it offers terrific value for money if you just need a straightforward and affordable everyday machine, thanks to its Intel Core 3 CPU, 8GB of RAM, 256GB SSD, and all-day battery life.
I picked up the original version of the Suri Sonic Electric Toothbrush a few months ago, and I can't tell you how happy I am with that decision. Yeah, it's a bit of an investment in a toothbrush, but for something that I do twice a day, I'm happy to spend a bit on something that's genuinely very good at what it does. And, best of all, it's much nicer to use than plastic brushes, and the battery life is phenomenal. This newer 2.0 version is now 25% off.
I've been using an old Fitbit Versa 2 for a few years now and it's everything I want from a health, sleep and exercise tracker. I'm not sure how I'd feel about swapping to a smart ring, but I can see the benefits — and lots of others like them. If you want to try out one of the best for less, then the last-generation Oura Ring 4 is up to 30% off for Prime Day.
Just checking in to let you know that stock of Amazon's PS5 deal is starting to get low. It's now up to 70% claimed, so I can't see it lasting more than another couple of hours max at this rate. I'll just repeat that I don't believe any better deals will arrive before GTA 6 launches later this year, so it's probably your best opportunity to get a console for less if you want one for that blockbuster release.
I've given these Loop earplugs a shoutout in several of the last sales events and they're always a best-seller. Whether it's for blocking out noise while you sleep, muting that awful screeching from certain lines on the tube (yes, looking at you, Northern line), keeping your ears protected at a gig, or just to bring the noise down a bit while you're out for drinks, they're a popular buy. Even more so at this super-low price.
I've had a look and there isn't a huge number of TV deals in this year's Prime Day. Of course, there are all the usual Amazon Fire TVs (now called Ember TVs) that we see on sale, but other choices are somewhat lacking.
I thought Amazon would go big given it's the World Cup at the minute and many might be looking for an upgrade. If that's you, though, then I have spotted an excellent £300 off the LG B5 OLED TV. That makes one of the best budget OLED TVs an even better buy this week.
Amazon Prime Day isn't just about getting discounts on the latest tech, it's also a great opportunity to cash in on exclusive perks. As always, Amazon is running some promotions on its live services for Prime Day that are well worth a look.
Right now, for example, you can get an extended three-month free trial at Audible, plus a £10 voucher to spend on the Audible Store. Normally costing £5.99 per month, the standard membership includes unlimited access to the non-Plus library and one free book token per month. Audible is Amazon's premier storefront for audiobooks, with a vast library of over 1 million titles, so there's plenty of scope here for bagging some classics.
Here's another good perk that's exclusive to Prime members today - an extended free trial for Music Unlimited, which is like Amazon's version of Spotify Premium.
With this membership trial, you'll get unlimited access to the 100 million song catalogue with no ads and unlimited skips. As with other sites, you get curated playlists and Alexa device support here, but Music Unlimited also features high-definition and spatial audio, which is probably one of the reasons why it usually costs £11.99/mo!
I've shared deals on Audible and Music Unlimited, but I forgot the most popular free trial of them all - it's the 30-day Amazon Prime free trial. The Amazon Prime subscription is the glue that holds everything together over these events, as the majority of deals are exclusive to Prime members. Luckily, if you're not an existing member, then you can simply use the 30-day free trial to get unrestricted access to everything.
It might be one of those old tales, but I've been told that a hot drink can cool you down in hot weather. I refuse to believe it. And while I'm sure many of us aren't thinking about a piping-hot tea or coffee right now (a cold brew would hit pretty hard though), this is a good saving on Ninja's smart kettle for when the temperatures drop again.
OK, what am I doing messing about with a kettle? This is what you're more interested in now, right? Ninja's frozen drinks maker has been growing in popularity recently, and it's be a saviour to at least one TechRadar writer in this warm weather. If you fancy getting one for yourself, it's now dropped to a record-low price for Prime Day
A kitchen appliance that will change your life (really!)
(Image credit: Future)
Hi everyone — Global Editor in Chief Marc here, taking over from James for a bit so he can cool down/get some lunch.
So, where shall I start? How about with one of my favourite tech purchases of all time in the shape of the Ninja Foodi Max Dual Zone air fryer.
Yes, I know, I know — it's not as exciting as a games console or OLED TV or whatever, but this improves my life on a daily basis. It has two drawers, so I can cook two dishes at once, plus there's a sync function so they finish cooking simultaneously, and it all just works incredibly well. Seriously, just buy one — it's £75 off right now!
I know James already mentioned the Shark ChillPill, but I'm going to talk about it too because a) I bought one for my daughter and she loves it and b) I might now buy one for myself.
The fan isn't the strongest — we prefered the Dyson rival in our Dyson HushJet Mini Cool bs Shark ChillPill comparison feature — but the misting spray and cooling plate are both excellent, plus it's on sale for Prime Day, whereas the Dyson model is so popular that you can't even get it until August (at Amazon at least).
For some, that means protecting margins. For others, it means finding new customers, sourcing better products, entering new markets or simply running the business with less friction.
More often, it means trying to do all of these things at once. Knowing which opportunity deserves attention first and having the time and resources to act on it has always been a challenge.
For decades, this has forced smaller businesses into a trade-off: choose one priority and hope this is the right decision or waste all your time and money and miss an opportunity elsewhere.
The era of agentic business changes this. According to the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC), more than half of UK SMEs (54%) are now actively using AI – an increase from 35% in 2025.
In recent times, the technology has moved from passive assistance - writing, summarizing and answering questions – to autonomous execution.
AI is therefore no longer limited to responding only when prompted but can operate continuously in the background.
A wide spectrum of business functions
In this way, AI agents can now handle a wide spectrum of business functions end-to-end. This includes building digital storefronts, writing product listings, offering dynamic pricing, providing customer service, generating market research, and supporting with marketing.
The real value lies not in overnight task automation but better decision-making with less friction and fewer blind spots. In fact, according to the same BCC research, SMEs using AI report strong net productivity improvement expectations (+71%), while those planning to adopt or unsure show far lower optimism. Importantly, agentic AI is levelling the playing field with larger companies.
The latter have historically had an advantage because they can afford dedicated teams for each business function. SMEs, on the other hand, have had to rely on lean teams, founder instinct and whatever time was left after the urgent work was done. Within agentic businesses, there is immediate access to capabilities which once required high headcount or expensive IT systems.
Examples include testing a new product category, launching into a new market or trialing a marketing campaign with far less operational risk than before. Rather than spending weeks gathering information manually or coordinating across multiple systems, AI agents can help businesses identify opportunities and execute tasks in real time.
Crucial for smaller businesses
In addition, agentic AI has been crucial for smaller businesses looking to grow internationally. It can help them localize product listings and marketing content for different markets, coordinate supplier communications across time zones, and analyze regional demand trends in real time. This reduces much of the operational complexity traditionally associated with cross-border trade and gives SMEs greater confidence to explore new markets that may previously have felt out of reach.
So, the SME conversation around AI needs to move beyond productivity. Saving time matters, but it is not the full story. The bigger opportunity lies in performance: simplifying complexity, reducing avoidable risk, helping businesses act on information earlier.
For an SME, one missed supplier issue, one misread market signal or one poorly timed product decision can have an outsized impact. Becoming an agentic business helps reduce that exposure with complex information easier to monitor, compare and act on. However, it does not remove the need for human judgement. In fact, it raises the value of that judgement by giving business owners clearer options and more time to focus on strategy.
The most successful uses of AI will not be the most futuristic but the most useful, offering practical, transparent information, built around real commercial pain points. The first wave of AI helped SMEs create faster, but the next wave will help them operate smarter.
For SMEs, the question is no longer whether AI can help. It is how quickly they can put AI agents to work on the decisions that determine how they compete, grow and scale.
This article was produced as part of TechRadar Pro Perspectives, our channel to feature the best and brightest minds in the technology industry today.
The views expressed here are those of the author and are not necessarily those of TechRadarPro or Future plc. If you are interested in contributing find out more here: https://www.techradar.com/pro/perspectives-how-to-submit
Gigabyte’s gaming monitors have been hit and miss lately, but I had high hopes for the 32-inch, 4K, 240Hz MO32U24, which uses a 4th-generation QD-OLED panel and has a new, HDR-boosting feature called HyperNits.
Is this the one?
Like Gigabyte’s other non-Aorus-branded gaming monitors, the MO32U24 has a sober design that eschews RGB and geometric flourishes for a basic-looking stem and stand. That’s no bad thing, as many buyers will want a monitor that suits gaming, multimedia and work.
It’s easy to assemble (one clip and a thumbscrew), there’s a generous amount of adjustment in every direction and the small-footprint stand will suit competitive gamers who sit right up close to the screen.
(Image credit: Future)
QD-OLED screens banished spidery text a generation ago and this fourth-gen version is no different. Even fine fonts look sharp and the UHD resolution means you can comfortably work with four windows or large spreadsheets all day without straining your eyes.
The screen also uses Gigabyte’s ObsidianShield coating, which ‘boosts true-black performance’ and improves scratch resistance. It has a semi-gloss finish and does an impressive job of reducing reflections.
However, I was particularly interested to see how the HyperNits brightness enhancement affected the 1,000-nit HDR performance. Gigabyte says it “intelligently enhances overall brightness… while preserving highlight details.” In reality, it makes the MO32U24’s excellent HDR a bit better.
While some details still get lost in large, bright areas, an impressive amount of detail simultaneously remains visible in highlights and shadows: bright lights (fire, lightning, candles, windows and torches) shine piercingly out of true-black backgrounds without blowing out.
This noticeably improves multimedia immersion (especially in open-world games). I also liked that I could leave it activated when working without going blind.
Meanwhile, colors are bright and saturated and transitions are smooth and noise-free. The 240Hz refresh rate and the rapid 0.03ms pixel response banish blurriness around rapidly moving objects and only god-tier pro-FPS players might complain. G-Sync prevents image tearing.
(Image credit: Future)
Gigabyte’s OSD is intuitive, responsive and all the usual presets and gaming features are easily accessed via a joystick button. Gigabyte’s Game Assist features include an on-screen timer and refresh rate display, on-screen crosshairs, a sniper-zoom box, green-screen night vision and flash dimming. Some are useful, but others feel gimmicky.
Potentially of more interest to FPS players is the customizable Tactical Switch button, which drops the display area to 24 or 27 inches, sets the resolution to 1440p, Full HD or HD and/or changes the aspect ratio to 4:3 or 5:4.
Beyond that, there are considerable automated OLED care options that don’t get in your way, a full set of ports (including a two-port USB hub) and two 5-watt speakers, which provide useful audio for day-to-day multimedia use (but have very little bass).
In more recent years, Asus has dominated in this space, but no longer. It has a few quirks, but the Gigabyte MO32U24 has the chops where it matters.
Gigabyte MO32U24: Price & availability
How much does it cost? $1,000 / £800 / AU$1,499
When is it available? The Gigabyte MO32U24 is out now
Where can you get it? It’s available in the US, UK, Australia and other regions
The Gigabyte MO32U24 is available now in most regions. It’s a premium model, so it’s not cheap. Furthermore, the global price spread is quite wide and it sits in a crowded segment where prices for rivals and previous-gen models are changing frequently (and significantly) in sales.
This means the value proposition is hard to pin down. Nonetheless, you do get a lot of gaming monitor for your money and it’s currently one of the very best on the market.
Value: 4 / 5
Gigabyte MO32U24: Specs
Gigabyte MO32U24 specifications
Screen size
31.5-inch
Aspect ratio
16:9
Resolution
3840 x 2160 (UHD)
Brightness
300 cd/m² typical SDR at 100% APL; 1000 cd/m² typical HDR at 3% APL
Refresh rate
240Hz
Response time
0.03ms GTG
Viewing angle
178°(H)/178°(V)
Contrast ratio
1.5M:1
Color coverage
99% DCI-P3
Inputs
2x full-bandwidth HDMI 2.1, 1x DisplayPort 1.4, 1x USB-C with DisplayPort Alt Mode, upstream and up to 18W power delivery, 2x USB 3.2 downstream, 1x USB 3.2 upstream, 1x earphone jack
Dimensions
71.9 x 61.0 x 24.0cm with stand (28.3 x 24.0 x 9.4in); 71.8 x 41.8 x 6.5cm without stand (28.3 x 16.5 x 2.6in)
Weight
7.95kg with stand (17.5lb); 6.00kg without stand (13.2lb)
Gigabyte MO32U24: Design
Utilitarian design with small base footprint
Responsive and intuitive OSD controls
Generous amount of tilt, swivel, pivot and height adjustment
Some gaming monitors have over-designed, spiky stands that take up more space than is necessary on your desk in order to make a statement — often with RGB lighting to hammer home the point.
The Gigabyte MO32U24 is more sober (unlike siblings from its Aorus sub-brand) in that its no-nonsense stem, base and bezel are relatively plain-Jane in their appearance, but are arguably better for it.
The stem easily clips onto the screen and the small-footprint base attaches to it via a single thumbscrew. You’re left with a solid stand that doesn’t wobble unless you shake the whole desk.
The whole monitor doesn’t look flashy, which will suit those who want to use it for office work in an office environment. However, esports players can still sit right up close to it with their keyboards.
(Image credit: Future)
I’m not quite sure what happened to the Gigabyte Control Center app. It used to be very good at adjusting all your monitor settings from the Windows desktop.
The latest version is barely functional, so you need to access settings using the joystick button at the base. Mercifully, it's intuitive and responsive and you can set up multiple (one- or two-click) shortcuts to your most commonly used features.
To its left is the off switch. To the right is the ‘Tactical Switch’ which can instantly change the display size, resolution and aspect ratio to suit esports players or activate one of the monitor’s other Game Assist features.
Those Game Assist features include multiple styles of on-screen crosshair that can be moved around the screen. These are particularly useful for games like Hardcore CoD (even though it feels like it’s close to cheating).
There’s an Eagle Eye zoom ‘sniper’ box which can magnify an area of the screen (it’s adjustable but sits in the middle by default). I’d say this really was cheating if I found it usable in any way whatsoever, but my testing found it to be little more than annoying.
There’s also Night Vision mode which changes the whole display to ‘night vision green’ for people who want to pretend they’re in real-life special forces, or something.
Flash dimming is provided to stop virtual flash-bangs combining with the high, peak brightness and burning your retinas. Not everything is available when HDR is selected, though.
You can also use Game Assist to simply show a Timer, Counter or Refresh Rate (and move this information around the screen).
(Image credit: Future)
The Resolution Settings can drop the screen to 27 or 24 inches to suit FPS players who sit right up close. The available resolutions range from 1440p to 1024 x 768, with aspect ratios ranging from 16:9 through 5:4 to 4:3.
Other gaming adjustments include numerous image presets that are all adjustable. There's also AI Black Equalizer, which flattens contrast to stop enemies hiding in shadows and highlights. There are also VRR and Anti-Flicker modes to smooth out motion for console players. The monitor also supports G-Sync and FreeSync Premium Pro to prevent image tearing.
Other features include Picture-in-Picture and Picture-by-Picture, which can make use of all four inputs (2x HDMI, DP and USB-C) plus KVM settings that let you use the same peripherals on multiple connected devices.
Also included is an extensive collection of OLED Care options that are mostly automatic and unobtrusive. You can easily check on the screen’s status, manually activate pixel cleaning cycles and select settings that automatically dim logos and static images.
Ultimately, there’s nothing notable missing and even the most demanding tinkerers should be able to easily find display settings to suit their needs.
Design: 5 / 5
Gigabyte MO32U24: Performance
Outstanding HDR performance
Fine text and low-reflection coating make it great for work
Bright, vibrant colors and contrast boost game immersion
Fast refresh rate and pixel response time suit FPS players
The Gigabyte MO32U24 has so many settings that every type of user should be able to quickly find a combination (by choosing a single preset or manually adjusting multiple settings) that suits their needs, whether they’re gaming or working.
Office workers will warm to sharply rendered fine fonts, a low-reflection, semi-gloss coating and a resolution that affords comfortable work with four windows at once.
(Image credit: Future)
When it comes to multimedia, the semi-gloss screen reduces reflections without dulling the impact of the panel’s bright colors, true blacks and outstanding contrast like a matte screen would.
Its HDR performance, which is augmented with Gigabyte’s ObsidianShield coating and HyperNits brightness enhancement, is outstanding as it can simultaneously display details in very bright and very dark scenes at once. While some details can get lost in particularly large, bright areas, it's rarely a problem.
Top tip — I recommend using the Windows HDR Calibration tool (in the Microsoft Store) to set it up, but I also recommend not following its instructions entirely — don’t make the black and white boxes disappear into each other — you’ll get a much better image if you leave the two reference images visible.
The 240Hz refresh rate and fast QD-OLED pixel response time ensure that rapidly moving objects are rendered nearly pin-sharp. I’ve seen even better performance on even faster screens, but those rarely offer the all-around graphical attributes that are also available on the MO32U24.
I never expect much from built-in monitor speakers and the two 5-watt speakers didn’t challenge this view. It’s handy to have them for casual social-media video watching but don’t expect great musical fidelity or punchy bass.
Performance: 5 / 5
Should you buy the Gigabyte MO32U24?
Gigabyte MO32U24 scorecard
Value
Expensive but worth it.
4 / 5
Design
Utilitarian, intuitive, useful but not flashy.
5 / 5
Performance
Sublime HDR image quality. Fast for FPS players. Great for office work too.
5 / 5
Final score
One of the very best all-around monitors on the market.
5 / 5
Buy the Gigabyte MO32U24 if...
You want a monitor for work and play
The Gigabyte MO32U24’s fine resolution and low-reflection coating can make you more productive when working. Its HDR graphical capabilities improve game immersion and its speed can satisfy competitive FPS gamers.
You want a premium gaming monitor that doesn’t cost the earth
It’s not cheap, but the Gigabyte MO32U24 costs less than many flashier S-tier rivals while matching (and even beating) them for performance.
Don't buy it if...
You don’t have much money
The Gigabyte MO32U24 offers the best of everything, but you can buy functional monitors that suit specific needs for far less money.
You want a flashy gaming monitor that makes a statement
If you want a spiky gaming monitor that’s dripping in RGB and looks great in Instagram pictures of your battle station, this isn’t the gaming monitor for you.
Also consider
LG UltraGear GX9
LG’s UltraGear GX9 has a larger, curved panel that offers potentially greater gaming and productivity benefits. But it costs much, much more.
MSI’s rival uses the same panel and offers similar performance and features. It costs a bit more on paper, but it could be significantly cheaper when on sale.
With Microsoft seemingly intent on turning Windows into malware, Macs are increasingly appealing. But while the Apple tax is increasingly diminishing in the consumer laptop space, it’s rife when it comes to compatible monitors.
PC-focused alternatives have different colors, pixel densities and features that rarely play well with Macs, meaning users frequently fight losing battles matching what they see on their MacBook screen with a third-party monitor. But BenQ has taken note.
There are several models in BenQ’s new specialist Mac range. Most have 4K resolutions, are 27 or 32 inches in size, have 60Hz refresh rates and offer glossy or matte finishes.
There are two outliers: the 120Hz MA320UG and this, the glossy, 5K-resolution MA270S.
(Image credit: Future)
Setup is simple, with the clip-on stem affixing to the base with a single thumbscrew. There’s a generous amount of adjustment (including 150mm (5.9in) height and 90° bi-directional pivot) which, unlike Apple, BenQ doesn’t charge extra for.
There’s also an unApple-like plethora of ports including two HDMI, two Thunderbolt 4 and four USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports (two USB-C and two USB-A), with up to 96 watts of USB-C power delivery — so one cable can connect and charge a laptop.
The USB-A ports also offer 7.5W charging. They also facilitate KVM functionality to connect multiple devices. Apple’s monitors don’t.
Once connected, BenQ’s factory-calibrated screen instantly resembled the display of the MacBook sitting next to it. Like Apple’s own monitors, the MA270S has a native 5K resolution of 5120 x 2880, giving it a much higher pixel density (218 PPI) than 27-inch, 1440p PC equivalents (~109 PPI).
By default, macOS scales the interface to look like 2560 x 1440, which keeps text crisp without making everything tiny.
(Image credit: Future)
The IPS screen is very impressive with near-OLED levels of color saturation and LED-backlight-derived (almost completely) true blacks. Multimedia looks good at default settings (vibrant colors, respectable contrast and minimal noise in gradients), but turning on HDR significantly improves everything: more details simultaneously show up in shadows and highlights and all transitions become smooth.
The brightest highlights can blow out (with no easy fix), though, and note that the glossy coating can turn into a black mirror when displaying dark content.
A common curse of Retina displays is their sluggish speeds and the MA270S is no different. The slow, 5ms response time marries with a 60Hz refresh rate (it actually goes up to a Spinal Tap-esque 70Hz) to smear fast-moving objects across the screen, so forget about eye-friendly, fast-and-frantic gaming.
There’s no integrated webcam, but the two 3-watt speakers (surprisingly for a monitor) have well-rounded fidelity and sound good, despite not getting loud.
Despite having a joystick button, most advanced image settings are controlled by BenQ’s impressive DisplayPilot 2 app. The customizable options can easily swap between color modes and toggle settings like Low Blue Light.
Its FocuSync settings match Mac Focus adjustments and enable you to change core monitor settings using Mac settings. You can also auto-sync different color modes with different applications.
(Image credit: Future)
BenQ MA270S: Price & availability
How much does it cost? $900 / £1,000 / AU$1,699
When is it available? It’s out now
Where can you get it? It’s available in the US, UK, Australia and other regions
While it’s not a cheap monitor, the BenQ MA270S is significantly cheaper than Apple’s own Studio displays and, therefore, serves as a much-needed, more affordable, third-party alternative in a monopoly market.
Value: 4 / 5
BenQ MA270S: Specs
BenQ MA270S specifications
Screen size
27-inch
Aspect ratio
16:9
Resolution
5120 x 2880 (5K)
Brightness
450 cd/m² typical
Refresh rate
70Hz
Response time
5ms GTG
Viewing angle
178°(H)/178°(V)
Contrast ratio
2,000:1
Color coverage
99% sRGB, 99% P3
Inputs
2x HDMI 2.1, 1x Thunderbolt 4 (96W PD), 1x Thunderbolt 4 out (15W PD), 1x USB-C 3.2 Gen 2 (35W PD), 1x USB-C 3.2 Gen 2 (15W PD), 2x USB-A 3.2 Gen 2 (7.5W charging), headphone jack
Dimensions
43.0-58.0 x 61.4 x 22.0cm with stand (16.9-22.8 x 24.2 x 8.7in); 36.8 x 61.4 x 7.6cm without stand (14.5 x 24.2 x 3.0in)
Weight
8.64kg with stand (19.1lb); 5.7kg without stand (12.6lb)
BenQ MA270S: Design
Simple, adjustable, three-part stand
Impressive number of ports
No built-in webcam
Apple users have always been an aesthetically appreciative bunch, and so they’ll warm to the color scheme of the BenQ MA270S, which apes that of a standard silver MacBook.
The stand is simple to assemble and offers a generous amount of movement in every direction. It's remarkable that Apple charges more for a feature like this — it’s standard on many PC displays.
The multiple ports (which offer different degrees of charging power) mean multiple devices can be simultaneously connected. Furthermore, a single keyboard and mouse can be shared across them using KVM functionality — unholy magic in the eyes of some Apple users.
FutureFutureFuture
The joystick button at the base of the screen only provides access to brightness, volume and input selections. To access more comprehensive settings, you’ll need the BenQ DisplayPilot 2 app and the OSD handily provides a QR code to locate it on BenQ’s own website (it’s not in the App Store).
It provides access to basic brightness settings, eye comfort and HDR, but also FocuSync settings on your Mac.
Another feature is the rubberized pad on the base of the stand. It provides slightly superior softness and friction compared to the plastic stand, so you may be more tempted to rest your phone on it.
(Image credit: Future)
The only element that some users might miss is a built-in webcam. Apple’s own monitors have them, but purchasers of the BenQ MA270S will have to buy a separate unit or use the one in their MacBook.
Design: 4 / 5
BenQ MA270S: Performance
Bright, sharp, Retina display
Glossy finish that can become reflective
Slow response time and refresh rate
The best thing you can say about the BenQ MA270S is that it just works. Just connecting it to your MacBook provides you with a matching image of your MacBook’s screen without having to fiddle with countless settings.
The screen displays very sharp text, colors are very bright and vibrant, and contrast is generally impressive. However, bright areas and highlights can blow out rather easily when HDR is engaged.
The big drawback is that the 70Hz refresh rate is nowhere near enough to stop the sluggish 5ms pixel response time from smearing most moving objects across the screen. As such, it’s not good for gaming.
(Image credit: Future)
Unusually for a monitor, the two 3-watt speakers offer well-rounded fidelity with a modicum of bass. They don’t get particularly loud, though.
Performance: 4 / 5
Should you buy the BenQ MA270S?
BenQ MA270S scorecard
Value
In terms of monitors, it’s not cheap. In terms of Apple monitors, it represents extraordinary value.
4 / 5
Design
The MA270S looks and feels like it belongs in Apple’s world — and that’s hard to achieve for third parties.
4 / 5
Performance
The colors, brightness, sharpness and contrast are everything we’d expect from an Apple monitor. Unfortunately, the sluggish speed is too.
4 / 5
Final score
At last, MacBook users can afford a compatible external monitor without breaking the bank.
4 / 5
Buy the BenQ MA270S if...
Apple’s homegrown alternatives are unaffordable
While the Apple tax isn’t what it once was, it still exists in monitor land. BenQ has provided some much-needed third-party competition.
You want multiple ports
Apple loves the simplicity of USB-C ports, but the real world often requires more, and BenQ provides them.
Don't buy it if...
You need a built-in webcam
It’s the one glaring omission. It’s worth highlighting its absence, as some long-time Apple buyers would simply expect it to be there.
You want it to play games
The 5ms pixel response time and 70Hz refresh rate make it one of the slowest monitors on the market.
(Image credit: Future)
Also Consider
Philips 27E3U7903 This expensive, third-party alternative can even beat Apple at its own game.
Many European consumers actively avoid American tech giants for privacy reasons
Social media and cloud storage are priorities for consumers
EU companies only have 15% of the European cloud market
Four in five European consumers say it matters whether or not businesses use European technology, confirming that digital sovereignty has now become a priority for the masses.
A study by Proton of 3,000 UK, France and Germany consumers shows that they’re beginning to view a company’s digital infrastructure as part of its brand and values, rather than a back-office decision that has no impact on customers.
As a result, nearly half (45%) said they would actively avoid companies that store customer data with US firms, with more concern over privacy and security than price or quality.
Digital sovereignty speaks volumes to consumers
This also aligns with European Commission ‘Eurobarometer’ data revealing that three-fifths (58%) of the bloc’s citizens would be willing to switch to an EU-based digital service provider, even if that meant paying a higher fee.
The report argues this reliance on US hyperscalers like AWS, Microsoft, Google and Meta can no longer be seen as a neutral business decision in the eyes of European customers, who are increasingly concerned over privacy, surveillance and geopolitical dependence.
Social media (48%), email (46%), messaging apps (40%) and other services that directly handle personal communications and information were seen as the most at-risk among consumers, Proton found. Other than communications, cloud storage (38%) was another great worry, along with browsers (31%).
Two in three (65%) now also believe that European small businesses should prioritize European tech providers over US ones, and not from a supporting local companies point of view. Consumers are more interested by sovereignty, keeping investments within Europe and reducing reliance on foreign tech vendors.
As many as four in five (83%) now worry about society’s dependence on Big Tech and how a small number of hyperscalers now dominate the market. Attitudes have shifted rapidly, Proton says, because of deteriorating US-Europe geopolitical tensions and the continued debate over US surveillance laws which prevent vendors from being able to fully offer sovereign options.
The US CLOUD Act is a specific worry for European citizens, because it allows US law enforcement to access data held by American technology companies, even if it’s stored within European data centers.
Customer data use is also a growing concern, where their information may be being used to train AI models that only serve to help those US giants.
The reality of US tech reliance
All of this comes amid growing US dependence, with three-quarters (74%) of publicly listed European companies relying on US tech providers, per an earlier Proton report.
Google and Microsoft alone account for 84% of the global office productivity market, with Amazon, Microsoft and Google jointly taking up a 66% of the cloud market. Proton’s full report details how European providers only hold a collective 15% of the European cloud market.
“Buying tech from the US used to seem like a no brainer,” Proton COO Raphael Auphan admitted, indicating an understanding of why European consumers are so deeply reliant on US software.
Tariffs on European exports, NATO tensions and American criticism over EU regulation – all of which falling under Trump’s presidency – are to blame, the Swiss company says.
But Auphan now describes relying on US tech as a “commercial liability” for businesses. “It's increasingly clear that consumers care about digital supply chains, and US tech is becoming a weak link.”
“The EU runs on Microsoft,” Finnish MEP Aura Sally said at the 2026 Open Source Policy Summit. “The US could turn us off inside one hour.”
However, an overnight migration away from US hyperscalers isn’t such an easy move, and while Proton is trying to offer some paths with the recent addition of Gmail migration with zero downtime, a full stack move could take years, buying well-funded American tech giants time to come up with more regional solutions to prevent customers from wanting to migrate in the first place.
Toy Story 5 only hit theaters three days ago, but ahead of Amazon's Prime Day and thanks to Walmart Deals — yes, a very to-the-point name — you can already save on some of the most exciting toys launched alongside the film.
Each figure can speak on its own, but when you bring them near one another, some clever under-the-hood tech lets them interact, cycling through more than 10 phrases together. If you've got a friend in these toys already, now's a pretty good time to add another one to the collection.
Today's best Toy Story 5 figure deals
Scoring a Toy Story 5 figure for $10 is a pretty incredible feat, and if you're a Walmart+ member, you'll score free, fast shipping as well. Both Woody and Jessie come with their iconic hats, and you'll notice that Jessie sports a sheriff badge while Woody doesn't, making these figures accurate to their appearances in Toy Story 5.
Jessie stands 8.8 inches tall, Woody measures 9.2 inches, and Buzz Lightyear comes in at 7 inches tall. The entire Interactables PlayScale line from Mattel is designed around this scale, meaning that if you pick up one of these figures — or all three — and add Forky or Lilypad down the line, they'll fit right in. Better yet, they're also designed to work with Mattel's other PlayScale figures.
Either way, whether you're shopping for a kid who just saw Toy Story 5 in theaters or looking to upgrade your own collection — because we're all young at heart, and we won't judge — Walmart is serving up a practically perfect deal here. It's a straight-out-of-Star-Command bargain to score a new Mattel figure for a record 54% off, and you can check out our behind-the-scenes tour at Mattel to see how these figures came to life.
Now for some minor spoilers. If you haven't seen Toy Story 5 yet, consider this your warning.
(Image credit: Mattel)
Friendly reminder: a minor spoiler lies ahead.
Alright, if you've scrolled this far, you've probably already seen Toy Story 5 and know about the arrival of a new Buzz Lightyear. If you're anything like me, you've likely been waiting to see a toy version of that upgraded Space Ranger.
I'm talking about the new Hi-Tech Buzz Lightyear, which gets an upgrade that finally lets the iconic toy take flight. Mattel is already serving up its own version, set to ship later in 2026 — specifically around August — that's designed to be safe for both kids and the young at heart.
Yes, Mattel has unveiled the Toy Story 5 Flying RC Hi-Tech Edition Buzz Lightyear, an enhanced version of the iconic character from›› the film. Rather than wings that pop out and somehow generate flight, this version deploys four propellers protected by safety guards, making it much more suitable for younger fans.
Designed for kids ages 8 and up, the Toy Story 5 Flying RC Hi-Tech Edition Buzz Lightyear comes with a controller that makes takeoff and landing easy with the press of a button. It's also intended for indoor use, and I'm certainly looking forward to going hands-on with it later this year.
Hackers reportedly breached Russia's Glaz/Groza combat control platform
Attackers gained access to manuals, patents, and training materials
Telegram groups reportedly handled software updates and user support
Ukrainian hackers have reportedly breached the Russian Glaz/Groza combat control system, gaining access to data and internal materials linked to the platform.
The incident has drawn attention because Groza is used to coordinate reconnaissance, targeting, and battlefield communications between different military units.
Information released following the breach suggests that attackers obtained technical documentation, training resources, and other operational records connected to the system.
According to the “Where is Russia today” community, the compromised materials included instructions, patents, videos, and extensive user documentation.
Groza serves as one of Russia’s command-and-control applications, helping connect drone operators, field commanders, and artillery units during military operations.
The software is designed to shorten the period between identifying a potential target and directing fire against it.
The hack revealed that support and software distribution functions were reportedly managed through Telegram groups used by administrators and military personnel.
Those channels were allegedly responsible for providing application updates and assisting users with operational issues.
The reported reliance on Telegram for elements of administration has prompted scrutiny because combat management systems typically handle sensitive battlefield information.
Maps integrated into the platform enable personnel to record the locations of friendly and opposing forces, helping users maintain operational awareness.
Following the breach, attackers reportedly altered portions of the mapping data and inserted images of the Ukrainian flag alongside other messages.
Reports from the group behind the disclosure indicated that affected users encountered persistent disruptions while attempting to access or restore application functionality.
“Numerous complaints from users about the breach have been recorded: they cannot connect to the application, are unable to remove images that keep reappearing, and administrators are trying to fix the problem,” the group stated.
Internal documents and training materials reportedly exposed
Beyond the visible disruptions, the breach reportedly exposed a substantial collection of supporting materials related to the combat management platform.
The Ukrainian hackers discovered hundreds of pages of user guides explaining the operation of the application and its various functions.
The disclosed information also included a training video that allegedly demonstrated the system operating in real time.
A patent connected to Groza was reportedly among the recovered materials, providing details regarding how the system functions and interacts with other technologies.
The patent documentation is said to contain information concerning the platform’s architecture, intended users, and integration with related military systems.
Such materials could potentially offer insight into the broader structure supporting the software environment.
The operational impact of the breach has not been independently verified, and the extent of any resulting disruption remains uncertain based on currently available information.
Amazon Prime Day is upon us, and headphones will fly out of Amazon warehouses like the best brownies at the bake sale — and if the best models sell out, the deals-hungry public will flock to competing retailers.
But I want you to be first in line when the deals land, and that means knowing how to sort the wheat from the chaff. Stick with me, and you'll never be led astray to an unknown (but very lavishly packaged) set of cans that turn out to be 2019-launched duds still toting Bluetooth 4.1 and with no app to speak of.
Look, I'm being harsh here because I want you to have the good products. The ones I'm listing here are, in fact, the best. And because Amazon Prime Day is one of the biggest sales events in the tech calendar, some discounts are likely (not certain, you understand… but likely).
What follows are my top three noise-canceling headphones for iPhone, Android, and audiophiles, along with my advice on pricing. Know this now and bookmark the product page for the day(s) ahead. You got this!
You may not want to hear this, because believe me, I know that the second-generation Apple over-ears launched in March 2026, devoid of any huge redesign we might have hoped for.
Here's the thing: you won't care once they're on. That is because the ANC is so much better this time around. I know because I reviewed them for TechRadar, and their noise-nixing performance is jaw-droppingly, head-shakingly, 'No you must have lowered your voice, come on' good. Really.
Also excellent is the new Conversation Awareness feature, which picks up your voice to lower all other sounds and enable an important chat much faster than in competing options I've tested.
Why are they so good? It's their new H2 chip and its computational wizardry. They're also punchier sonically, and the extra perks (Live Translation, Adaptive Audio, Head Gesture control, and the Camera Remote feature, in short) work seamlessly and with minimal button-pushing to get you there.
Provided you've got an iPhone 15 Pro or newer (ie. something that supports Apple Intelligence) these features are unbeatable. These are the headphones I reach for daily. And it's not even close.
Launch price: $549 / £499 (March 2026)
Prices to look for on Prime Day: US: $399 is already live! UK: as above, look for 10% savings (or £449) over Prime Day
These are the new new March 2026 edition, with the H2 chip and all of the upticks in performance that brings. And though many might have predicted an Apple-style $50 saving (yawn), this $150-off steal is crazy! Nobody had this on their bingo card for Prime Day. Let me be abundantly clear: the noise cancellation here is absolutely fantastic — and I know, because I reviewed them… View Deal
2. The cocoon-of-quiet set for Android owners (that's also device agnostic)
(Image credit: Future)
And now for something slightly cheaper, and slightly older — although a September 2025 launch date still makes them thoroughly relevant and modern, even in the fast-moving worlds of Bluetooth audio and wireless headphones.
The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (2nd Gen) are my second-most-reached-for cans when I need to block out the world. I pick them up whenever I want to listen in ‘cinema’ mode (within the ‘Immersive’ audio offering), but my source material is from Tidal, say, because unlike Apple's AirPods, these headphones will give you top-tier head-tracked dynamic content irrespective of the source device or streaming platform.
And while you'll also get Lossless from the AirPods Max 2 above, being able to hard-wire the QuietComfort Ultra (2nd Gen) headphones to a source of music in order to enjoy truly hi-res audio quality isn't to be sniffed at either — oh, and you get aptX Adaptive for better quality over Bluetooth, too, which we loved in our full review of the Bose QCU Headphones (2nd Gen).
OK, the option below this product (and the one above it, though that's a far closer call) will give you slightly more detail and a more faithful neutrality in your music. But for noise cancellation at this price, these Bose headphones still cannot be beaten nine months after their release. Bose basically wrote the book on ANC back in the 1970s, and the QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (2nd Gen) are more than worthy of their history.
Prices to look for on Prime Day: US: their lowest ever price of $379 has just been seen UK: £399 is the lowest-seen deal in the UK (but keep your eyes peeled!)
This is the new record-low price for the latest Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (2nd Gen)at Amazon, so one to consider snapping up even before Prime Day is here. We awarded them the full five stars in our review, thanks to the brilliant noise cancellation, excellent audio quality, and extremely comfortable design. We had nothing more to say except that they are the 'best active noise-canceling cans for the money.'View Deal
Providing yet more proof (as if any were needed) that Bose is the king of ANC, this improved set of QC Ultra headphones ticks virtually every box imaginable. Impressive noise-nixing capabilities, hi-res audio support over USB, solid battery life, and an energetic and engaging sound. Our Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (Gen 2) review is the place to go for the full scoop, but know this: this is a return to their lowest-seen price. View Deal
3. The isolation chamber for picky audiophiles
(Image credit: Future / Simon Lucas)
Want class-leading sound as well as near-class-leading ANC? You've really got to give the Bowers & Wilkins Px8 S2 your complete and undivided attention, as we said in our five-star Bowers & Wilkins Px8 S2 review.
When I want a wireless listen that's as close to a wired listen as I've ever heard, with very good noise-cancellation performance to boot, I go for these. Also, these are by far the best-looking headphones I've ever worn. They're a classy, timeless set of over-ears and no mistake — but on this, they also launched in September 2025, like the Bose option above.
The B&W are the priciest set of headphones within what is hardly a bargain bucket roundup, I grant you — but again, I have ruthlessly selected my favorite headphones for this missive. They are the only sets of cans I'd advise splurging on this Prime Day, because I can personally vouch for their talents.
Honestly, you do tend to get what you pay for in audio — and here you're getting aptX Adaptive and aptX Lossless compatibility, with the option for wired USB-C listening as well. However you choose to listen, I could wax lyrical on the sound quality for days. Just be careful when wearing them on public transport, because I've missed my stop more times than I'd care to admit while wearing these headphones.
Launch price: $799 / £629 (September 2025)
Price to look for on Prime Day: US: Anything less that $749 (or 6% off) would make for a new lowest-seen price UK: Anything under £629 would be a new lowest-seen fee (so stay tuned!)
Prime Day is officially only a few hours away. But while the Amazon sale promises to be packed with cheap tech and gadgets, a refined workspace deserves stylish gear and pure craftsmanship. With that in mind, I've curated a round-up of 12 premium desk accessories that exude luxury and timeless style.
In this guide, I'm not chasing the deepest discounts, but prioritizing high-performance essentials. The focus here is on exquisite builds, clever engineering, and uncompromising utility when crafting a workspace that's as powerfully practical as it is visually flawless.
Alongside some of my favorite deals on luxury office desk accessories, I've included high-end professional gear that's perfectly designed - even if there's no savings to be had.
For more savings on workspace upgrades, see my real-time coverage of the best Prime Day home office deals you can buy.
Logitech
Logitech MX Master 3S Wireless Mouse
Keychron
Keychron Q1 HE Wireless Custom Keyboard
Anker
Anker 3-In-1 Cube MagSafe Wireless Charger
Ember
Ember Temperature Control Smart Mug 2
DELTAHUB
Deltahub Carpio 2.0 Truly Ergonomic Wrist Rest
Nordik By Design
Nordik Large Felt Desk Mat
Bose
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Bluetooth Headphones
Elgato
Elgato Stream Deck Mk.2
Logitech
Logitech Z407 PC Speakers With Subwoofer and Wireless Control
Both Algeria and Jordan will be looking for a win to stay alive in the FIFA World Cup 2026 as they face off at the San Francisco Bay Area Stadium in a crucial Group J fixture. There's plenty riding on this – loser goes home.
Algeria were blown apart 3-0 by Argentina in their opening fixture, as Lionel Messi's sublime hat-trick did the damage, but the Fennecs will draw inspiration from their stunning 1-0 win over the Netherlands in the World Cup warm-up friendlies. Anis Hadj Moussa scored the winner that day and started against Argentina ahead of former Man City star Riyad Mahrez in a surprise decision from head coach Vladimir Petrovic. German-based duo Mohamed Amoura and Ibrahim Maza must also step up.
World Cup debutants Jordan equalised through Ali Olwan against Austria and stayed in the game until the 76th minute but a late own goal and a penalty ultimately condemned them to a 3-1 defeat. Jamal Sellami's men are on a six-game winless run, conceding at least twice in each fixture. Much rests on Rennes forward Musa Al-Taamari's individual ability as they seek the same determination they displayed against the Austrians.
So, read on as we show you exactly how to watch Jordan vs Algeria for free from anywhere in the FIFA World Cup 2026.
How to watch Jordan vs Algeria for free
Jordan vs Algeria is available to watch for free in multiple countries, including the UK, Australia, Brazil, Belgium, Ireland, Netherlands, Switzerland and Turkey.
Abroad? Can't access your free stream? Unblock your free World Cup stream with Norton VPN — more on that below.
Use a VPN to watch Jordan vs Algeria live streams
It’s the World Cup, and if you’re traveling, you might discover your usual Jordan vs Algeria stream is suddenly unavailable due to geo-restrictions.
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How to watch Jordan vs Algeria in the US
US viewers can watch Jordan vs Algeria on FS1 and Telemundo (Spanish comms).
Defenders: Abdallah Nasib (Al-Zawraa), Yazan Al-Arab (FC Seoul), Husam Abu Dahab (Al-Faisaly), Mohammad Abulnadi (Selangor), Yousef Abu Al-Jazar (Al-Hussein), Salim Obaid (Al-Hussein), Ahmad Assaf (Al-Hussein)
Midfielders: Noor Al-Rawabdeh (Selangor), Ibrahim Sa'deh (Al-Karma), Mohammad Abu Hashish (Al-Karma), Nizar Al-Rashdan (Qatar SC), Mohannad Abu Taha (Al-Quwa Al-Jawiya), Amer Jamous (Al-Zawraa), Mohammad Al-Dawoud (Al-Wehdat), Yousef Qashi (Al-Hussein), Mohammad Taha (Al-Hussein)
Forwards: Musa Al-Taamari (Rennes), Mahmoud Al-Mardi (Al-Hussein), Baha' Faisal (Al-Waab), Mohammad Abu Zrayq (Raja Casablanca), Ibrahim Sabra (Lokomotiva Zagreb), Odeh Al-Fakhouri (Pyramids), Ali Azaizeh (Al-Shabab)
Of course, most broadcasters have streaming services that you can access through mobile apps or via your phone's browser.
You can also stay up-to-date with all of the key World Cup moments on the official social media channels on X/Twitter (@FIFAWorldCup), Instagram (@FIFAWorldCup), TikTok (@FIFAWorldCup) and YouTube (@FIFA).
We test and review VPN services in the context of legal recreational uses. For example:1. Accessing a service from another country (subject to the terms and conditions of that service).2. Protecting your online security and strengthening your online privacy when abroad.We do not support or condone the illegal or malicious use of VPN services. Consuming pirated content that is paid-for is neither endorsed nor approved by Future Publishing.
A home security camera will give you peace of mind, watching over your property, alerting you to any unusual happenings, and capturing video evidence. However, they can also be expensive to run; many systems require a monthly or annual subscription plan to store your video clips, and to unlock features like subject recognition.
It doesn't have to be that way, though. Here at TechRadar we've tested dozens of security cameras, including lots without any extra fees. This is a great time to pick one up too, with lots of models likely to be discounted for Amazon Prime Day.
Here I've put together a list of the top five subscription-free home security cameras we recommend, with options for everything from apartments through to large detached properties and even small businesses.
1. Baseus Security S2 Outdoor Camera 4K
Chris PriceChris PriceChris PriceChris PriceChris PriceChris PriceChris Price
The Baseus Security S2 isn't the only solar-powered security camera we've tested, but it's the only one with a photovoltaic panel that rotates around its body to follow the sun, ensuring it captures as much light as possible throughout the day. It looks strange, but in our tests, we found worked brilliantly, noticeably extending battery life.
In addition, an SD card slot in the bottom means you can save your video recordings locally, without paying for cloud storage. However, the real standout feature in our view is the S2's built-in facial-recognition, which can alert you if the camera spots familiar people nearby. Just upload their photos to the app, and it will keep an eye out for them. It's the kind of advanced feature that would normally only be available as part of a premium subscription package, but here it's thrown in.
During tests, the S2 produced very few false alerts. This not only prevents you from being bombarded with unnecessary phone notifications, it also means recording is triggered only by genuine events, extending the cam's battery life. Images are superbly detailed during the day, and the spotlight is excellent for illuminating the garden at night to ensure high-quality footage in the dark, too.
The Baseus S2 is also one of the most affordable subscription-free security cameras we've tested. Yes, the up-front cost is more than you'd pay for a camera from Blink or Ring, for example, but the absence of fees for storage and advanced features mean it almost certainly works out cheaper overall.
If you're on a strict budget, take a look at the Baseus Security S1 instead. It's available for about half the price of the S2 and has the same rotating solar panel. However, it records at only 2K and has 8GB built-in storage rather than up to 256GB via a microSD card.
Swann's MaxRanger4K Solar cameras are sold in packs of two or three, bundled with a base station that provides 64GB local storage for your videos, and is expandable with an SD card if you need even more room. If that isn't enough coverage, you can also pick up extra cams to connect to the station.
These high-definition cameras were seriously impressive – especially considering you don't need to subscribe to get the most out of them. Each camera arrives with a tough weather-resistant chassis, and captures super-crisp 4K footage with a wide 105-degree viewing angle. That's great for a camera without pan-and-tilt functionality.
That's not all – the cameras also have a sensor that uses heat and motion to identify people, vehicles, and other disturbances, and labels them accordingly. It's the kind of feature you'd usually only get with a paid security plan, but it's bundled in here – and in our tests it worked brilliantly, accurately identifying triggers.
The app lets you tweak camera settings, including its sensitivity, which is a handy way to extend the battery life of the units. Each cam has a solar panel that allows it to last months between charges, but you'll need to spend some time optimizing settings for maximum effect. The more frequently recordings are triggered, the faster the battery will drain.
Chris PriceChris PriceChris PriceChris PriceChris PriceChris PriceChris Price
The Reolink Altas PT Ultra earned four stars in our review thanks to its crisp video recordings, pan-and-tilt functionality to cover an extra-wide area, and local storage for your video. Although it's somewhat bulky, it looks smart and didn't worry our neighbors unnecessarily (always a plus).
The camera can automatically track subjects such as people and animals, or you can pan and tilt it manually using the app, if there's something in particular that you want to keep an eye on. There's a pre-record option, too, similar to the one you'd get with a dash cam, which captures footage continuously in the background and saves the 10 seconds that were recorded before a trigger event.
Footage is super clear during the day, but we found that the Altas PT Ultra really excels at night. Most home security cameras produce pretty shoddy monochrome video after dark, but Reolink's ColorX technology captures impressive color footage without a spotlight.
Storing your videos in the cloud costs extra, but there's no need when you can save them to an SD card, or to an encrypted Reolink Home Hub. The Home Hub comes with 64GB storage, expandable with up to two 512GB SD cards, which should be more than enough.
If you like the idea of a security camera to cover the front of your home, but you don't want to (or can't) drill holes anywhere, the EZVIZ EP4 is an excellent option. It's installed through the peephole in your front door, and has a wide field of view that gives great visibility in sharp 4K. I installed it in the front door of my apartment within 10 minutes, and was very impressed by the clarity of the picture on the internal display, and on my phone.
When the camera's motion sensor is triggered, it will send a notification to your phone and record a 10-second video clip, which can be saved to a microSD card. You can choose to pay for cloud storage if you want, but there's no need. You also don't need to pay for EZVIZ's facial recognition tool, which lets you upload photos of friends and members of your family, and then notifies you when they arrive. During my tests it worked very well, despite being in beta. The only downside that was you can't yet choose not to receive these alerts, so you would only be notified if a stranger arrives.
The EP4 also functions as a video doorbell, and offers two-way talk, with two voice changing options for privacy. All in all, it's an excellent option for renters and apartment-owners, and when you move out, you can simply take it with you.
The eufyCam 3 S330 is a full security system designed for large properties, and even businesses. It consists of a set of cameras (the starter kit includes two, and additional ones are available to purchase separately) plus a HomeBase unit that connects them all to one another, and to your home Wi-Fi network.
Your videos are stored within the HomeBase unit, which comes with 16GB of storage that you can expand up to a colossal 16TB by plugging in an external hard drive, so you don't need to pay for cloud storage and your data is safely saved indoors.
Although it's a 'prosumer' system partially aimed at businesses, we found it easy to install and set up for the average user. Each camera has a 135-degree field of view, and a bright floodlight that can be triggered by motion at night for full-color footage, and a top-mounted solar panel so you don't need to take them down for frequent charging.
Subject detection is excellent, though on the standard settings it proved so sensitive that it sometimes also mistook a person's reflection for someone else in our tests, so it's worth taking some time to tinker with the settings. It includes facial recognition as well, and unlike the EZVIZ camera above, this doesn't rely on a set of photos and can 'learn' to identify individuals over time. The initial price isn't cheap, but when you consider how much you'd need to pay for an equivalent subscription setup, it's good value in the long term.
Amazon's Prime Day is officially here — the deals event kicked off today and runs until 27 June. We started seeing some early Lego deals over the weekend, but now the full range of bricky bargains has been revealed, and there are plenty of excellent discounts to be hand.
As TechRadar's resident Lego expert, I've been searching near and far on Amazon for the best of the best deals on the most popular brick-building sets. Whether you're after a recently launched Botanical set, a Disney set, a Star Wars set, or even one that can build three different things, you won't be disappointed.
Amazon is already offering return-to-all-time-low prices on a variety of Lego themes, and I've rounded up my top deals below — including picks across Star Wars, Disney, Technic, and Botanicals, as well as several options that won't break the bank at $15 or less. Brits should hop down the page for the best UK Lego deals.
Today's best Lego deals under $15
A Lego Technic set for under $10? Yes, Amazon is really delivering it with its early Prime Day deals in 2026. Lego's 151-piece Technic Yellow Motorcycle set is just $5.59 right now.View Deal
Any fan of Elsa, Anna, or Frozen at large will love this mini Lego build that lets you build the two iconic queens.View Deal
Two Lego sets are better than one, and two Lego sets certainly get the job done. For just $8.99, you'll build two Go-Karts and two Minifigures thanks to this fantastic, small build. View Deal
Whether you want a smaller Lego flower build or want to expand your Botanicals collection, you can't go wrong with this set of Lego Botanicals Daisies for just under $10 on Amazon.View Deal
Okay, we're slightly over the limit here. But this popular 3-in-1 set can be a retro camera... or it can be an old skool video camera or TV set. You're basically getting three sets in one, and with 20% off list price, it's a steal right now. View Deal
Not only is this Lego Creator set down to just $10.49, but it's a 3-in-1 that lets you build a race plane, a jet, or a helicopter. View Deal
For just $11.99, this Lego Star Wars Microfighter build will let you make Jedi Plo Koon with a Lightsaber and a Starfighter equipped with a droid. This is the perfect gift for any Star Wars fan at any age, and it's an excellent price.View Deal
Whether you want to customize a larger Lego flower set or simply want to bring some joy with a few Lego flowers somewhere in your home – or maybe on your desk at the office – this Lego set is small but mighty. For under $13, you can build a lovely pair of Cherry Blossoms out of Lego pieces thanks to this early Prime Day deal on Amazon.View Deal
Today's best Lego Star Wars deals
Any fan of Star Wars: The Clone Wars will likely love this 501st Clone Troopers Battle Pack from Lego. It's down to just $15.99 at Amazon ahead of Prime Day 2026.View Deal
With this Lego set, you can recreate iconic scenes between Clone Troopers and Battle Droids, and thanks to a pre-Prime Day discount, it's down to just $23.99. Just remember to say Roger, Roger.View Deal
The opening crawl to any Star Wars film might be one of the most iconic starts of any film franchise. And now, you can finally build the iconic Star Wars logo out of Lego bricks, and the design team hid some fun details. This fantastic set is down to $47.99 at Amazon ahead of Prime Day 2026.View Deal
Lego has produced many Millennium Falcon sets, but this smaller one, which debuted for the 25th anniversary of Star Wars: A New Hope, is an excellent model and even better with a 20% discount. It's currently available at the lowest price ever, at $67.98, and makes a superb display piece.View Deal
Love a podrace? You can build a diorama of the iconic scene from Star Wars: The Phantom Menace out of Lego bricks. Currently, this set is 33% off at $53.99 ahead of Prime Day on Amazon.View Deal
R2-D2 is the most iconic droid around, and right now, you can build your own version of the epic piece of Star Wars out of 1,050 bricks for just $79.99. That's a 20% discount from the $99.99 MSRP, and Prime members get free fast shipping. This set is themed to the 25th anniversary of Lego Star Wars and comes with a mini R2-D2, a display plate, and a Darth Malak minifigure.View Deal
Today's best Lego Disney deals
Fan of 101 Dalmatians or shopping for someone who is? This Lego Disney set is as adorable as it is a perfect gift, as you'll build Lucky & Penny, a bone for them to play with, and a classic TV. Plus, you can build it while you watch the classic film on Disney+.View Deal
The Lego Up house building set has been purchased over 4,000 times in the past month, and right now this delightful set is 23% off at $45.98. That's an excellent deal on a 598-piece set that's perfect for a fan of the film.View Deal
Don't blame us if you belt out 'How Far I'll Go' from Moana as you build the Adventure Canoe from the film. This Lego set is down to $47.99 on Amazon after an instant 20% discount and comes with 4 figures.View Deal
Not only will you end up building the iconic Pixar Luxor Jr. Lamp and iconic ball, but Lego's design team packed so many easter eggs and hidden details into this 613-piece set. With Toy Story 5 in theaters now and a 20% discount, now's an excellent time to score this Lego set for just $55.99.View Deal
Today's best Lego Botanicals deals
With over 10,000 of these sold on Amazon in the past month, it's clear that Lego has a hit on its hands with the most joyful set in the Botanicals theme. Happy Plants are exactly what the name says – two plants with smiley faces in cute pots, one blue, one yellow. This set is just 20% off at $18.39 on Amazon right now.View Deal
Now, this one is a personal favorite of mine, and it really is the perfect display piece. The Lego Botanicals Mini Orchid is a delightful set made from 274 pieces. It's back down to the lowest price we've tracked ahead of Prime Day – score it now on Amazon for $23.95.View Deal
The Lego Botanicals Chrysanthemum is back to just $23.95 from $29.99 ahead of Prime Day. This is an especially vibrant Lego Botanical set and should be a fun, easy build with 278 pieces. You'll build the flowers, the pot, and even a base for it to rest on.View Deal
Amazon has reduced the price of Lego Botanical Lucky Bamboo to the lowest we've ever seen. This delightful set is just $23.95 right now with free shipping and is a perfect Lego set for new or returning builders.View Deal
This Tiny Plants set, part of the Lego Botanicals line, lets you create nine plants, all housed in terracotta pots that you'll also construct out of Lego. Right now, it's 20% off on Amazon for just $39.95 ahead of Prime Day.View Deal
One of Lego's newer Botanicals sets is seeing a farm-fresh discount ahead of Prime Day 2026. Right now, Lego Botnicals Magnolia Branches is 16% off at $41.89 on Amazon.View Deal
Today's best Lego Technic deals
While you won't build a car with this Lego Technic set, you'll still get a pretty out-of-this-world result. For $61.99 on Amazon – after a $13 discount – you'll build a working model of Earth and Moon, which you can rotate to see the orbit pattern. Pretty neat!View Deal
For $51.99 on Amazon, you can build a Ford Bronco out of Lego Technic bricks. This is a pretty fun one and will have you build detailed parts of the vehicle, including the rear axle, engine, and suspension.View Deal
Lego Technic fans will want to take notice of this discount that's returning ahead of Prime Day 2026. Right now, Amazon has the Lego Technic Peugeot 9X8 24H Le Mans Hybrid Hypercar for just $159.99 — a 20% savings on a highly realistic, large Lego set made from 1,775 pieces.View Deal
Today's best UK Lego deals
This clever 'book nook set hinges in the middle, so you can have it opened up to display an extended King's Cross — as shown in the thumbnail picture. Alternatively, you can close it up for a more compact platform scene, which is designed to tuck between the books on your bookshelf like a portal to a magical world. There's 29% off for Prime members. View Deal
Fortnite fans can snap up this battle bus, which stands 28cm tall and comes complete with Slurp Juice, a Grappler and Pickaxes, plus 9 minifigures that all fit inside the bus. With 31% off list price, it's a bargain this Prime Day.View Deal
Recreate one of the most magical details from the Prisoner of Azkaban with this triple-decker Knight Bus. A spotty Stan welcomes you on board, where you'll meet a shortsighted driver and snoozing witch. Harry has his own trunk, and the Grim can be seen lurking in the background. View Deal
This one is for the hardcore fans only. At launch it was Lego's biggest ever set — although that crown has since been stolen, it's still a mammoth undertaking. The ultra-detailed interior lets you recreate your favorite scenes from A New Hope, and you've got almost an entire cast of minifigs to play with too (38 in total, including R2-D2, C-3PO, and a buff Stormtrooper.View Deal
I am a Moana fan and I have a particular soft spot for the Kakamora. These colorful coconut rascals are on sale for Prime Day. The Kakamora barge comes with a catapult, zipline, and playable drum, plus it can be split into three separate vessels. The set also comes with a Moana and Maui boat and figures.View Deal
This World Cup-inspired set looks cool enough from the outside, but inside is where the fun really starts — crack the football open to find a full, miniaturized stadium inside. Just don't try and start an actual game with it. View Deal
The undisputed MVPs of Up, Dug and Kevin, are reimagined in brick for for this set. I especially love the way Kevin's feathers are captured in colorful flat bricks. Dug, of course, has his own cone of shame. Amazon has knocked 25% off list price for Prime Day.View Deal
One of my favorite Lego Prime Day deals is this Harry Potter set. Closed up it looks like a cauldron, but stir the spoon and it'll open up to reveal a full potions class scene inside, complete with creepy details. There are Snape and Hermione (plus otter Patronus) minifigs, and there's a mystery Hogwarts portrait to discover too. View Deal
Hands-down my favorite Guardians of the Galaxy Lego set is this ultra-cool Groot. He's got snazzy shades, fun flower details, and if you turn the handle on the back of his plant pot, he'll break into a dance. Amazon has knocked 25% off list price for Prime Day. I am Groot.View Deal
This fun Super Mario Lego set has a removable top, which can 'fly' around independently and even shoot fireballs at intruders. There's a Prince Florian trapped in a cell inside, ready to be rescued. Amazon has knocked 24% off list price for Prime members, View Deal
HPE reveals rack-scale system containing 81,920 CPU cores
AMD Venice processors power HPE’s next-generation Cray infrastructure
One 42U rack delivers unprecedented levels of computing density
During its recent HPE Discover 2026 event, the company revealed new Cray GX5000 hardware featuring next-generation AMD EPYC Venice processors, with specifications that push server density well beyond current deployments.
The system combines multiple compute blades, liquid cooling infrastructure, networking hardware, and memory resources inside a single 42U rack configuration.
HPE revealed a Cray GX5000 configuration designed to deliver up to 81,920 CPU cores in one rack.
The HPE Cray GX5000 platform follows the AMD EPYC 9965, a 192-core processorthat represented one of AMD’s highest-core-count server CPUs before Venice arrived.
While the EPYC 9965 increased processor-level density, the Venice-based system takes a broader approach by combining multiple CPUs, memory resources, and cooling infrastructure inside a single rack.
At the center of the system is the HPE Cray GX250a compute blade, which houses eight AMD EPYC Venice processors.
The compute blade incorporates power delivery, liquid cooling channels, memory subsystems, storage devices, and networking components within a compact design.
HPE stated that a fully populated rack can deliver 81,920 CPU cores, although exact processor configurations were not disclosed.
Based on the rack specifications, the system reportedly uses 80 multi-node motherboards and can support as much as 1.28PB of RAM.
Each Venice processor connects to 16 memory channels, creating substantial memory bandwidth for large-scale computing workloads.
The memory modules themselves are liquid-cooled and appear to use standard DIMM form factors.
Photographs from the event showed local Samsung E1.S EDSSF SSDs mounted above several processor cold plates.
HPE representatives indicated these drives serve as high-speed scratch storage for temporary data processing tasks.
The installed DRAM modules, storage devices, and node identifiers suggest that the displayed hardware was operational rather than a nonfunctional demonstration unit.
That distinction is significant because earlier Venice demonstrations appeared closer to prototype systems than production-ready deployments.
Venice CPUs and networking define the platform
The rack incorporates Slingshot 400 networking hardware, with HPE indicating future compatibility with Slingshot 800 technology.
Networking modules are mounted within side pods connected to processors through dedicated interfaces designed for high-bandwidth communication.
The front-facing networking arrangement also simplifies cable management by changing how optical connections are routed throughout the rack.
HPE also displayed a coolant distribution unit capable of handling 1.6MW of cooling capacity for large installations.
Such cooling requirements reflect the growing power densities associated with modern high-performance computing infrastructure and increasingly complex CPU designs.
AI tools, scientific simulations, engineering analysis, and large LLM deployments are among workloads requiring this level of computational density.
The company did not disclose detailed specifications for AMD's unannounced Venice processors, although available figures suggest unusually high core counts.
Calculations based on the stated 81,920-core rack capacity imply processor densities exceeding current EPYC generations by a substantial margin.
Although AMD has not released the specs or performance figures for Venice, the projected core density of the HPE system has led to speculation that the processor could become one of the most powerful x86 CPUs produced.
A lot could change before the official launch, but the Cray GX5000 platform indicates that AMD and HPE are pursuing higher compute density within the same rack footprint.
A new Quordle puzzle appears at midnight each day for your time zone – which means that some people are always playing 'today's game' while others are playing 'yesterday's'. If you're looking for Monday's puzzle instead then click here: Quordle hints and answers for Monday, June 22 (game #1610).
Quordle was one of the original Wordle alternatives and is still going strong now more than 1,400 games later. It offers a genuine challenge, though, so read on if you need some Quordle hints today – or scroll down further for the answers.
Enjoy playing word games? You can also check out my NYT Connections today and NYT Strands today pages for hints and answers for those puzzles, while Marc's Wordle today column covers the original viral word game.
SPOILER WARNING: Information about Quordle today is below, so don't read on if you don't want to know the answers.
Quordle today (game #1611) - hint #1 - Vowels
How many different vowels are in Quordle today?
• The number of different vowels in Quordle today is 3*.
* Note that by vowel we mean the five standard vowels (A, E, I, O, U), not Y (which is sometimes counted as a vowel too).
Quordle today (game #1611) - hint #2 - repeated letters
Do any of today's Quordle answers contain repeated letters?
• The number of Quordle answers containing a repeated letter today is 3.
Quordle today (game #1611) - hint #3 - uncommon letters
Do the letters Q, Z, X or J appear in Quordle today?
• No. None of Q, Z, X or J appear among today's Quordle answers.
What letters do today's Quordle answers start with?
• A
• D
• S
• S
Right, the answers are below, so DO NOT SCROLL ANY FURTHER IF YOU DON'T WANT TO SEE THEM.
Quordle today (game #1611) - the answers
(Image credit: Merriam-Webster)
The answers to today's Quordle, game #1611, are…
ARDOR
DADDY
SERVE
SHEAR
This game could not have been easier, with just three vowels and two words beginning with the same letter, but I still came close to making it three losses in a row.
I should have solved DADDY earlier, but I lacked confidence and went with “madly” instead.
A messy game, but I’m relieved to be back on track.
Daily Sequence today (game #1611) - the answers
(Image credit: Merriam-Webster)
The answers to today's Quordle Daily Sequence, game #1611, are…
A new NYT Connections puzzle appears at midnight each day for your time zone – which means that some people are always playing 'today's game' while others are playing 'yesterday's'. If you're looking for Monday's puzzle instead then click here: NYT Connections hints and answers for Monday, June 22 (game #1107).
Good morning! Let's play Connections, the NYT's clever word game that challenges you to group answers in various categories. It can be tough, so read on if you need Connections hints.
What should you do once you've finished? Why, play some more word games of course. I've also got daily Strands hints and answers and Quordle hints and answers articles if you need help for those too, while Marc's Wordle today page covers the original viral word game.
SPOILER WARNING: Information about NYT Connections today is below, so don't read on if you don't want to know the answers.
NYT Connections today (game #1108) - today's words
(Image credit: New York Times)
Today's NYT Connections words are…
MONEY
YANKEES
HOTEL
FOXTROT
MODERN
FIREPLACE
POPULAR
DEED
EMPEROR
FEATURED
TOKEN
TAP
RECENT
SWING
EARTH
TRENDING
NYT Connections today (game #1108) - hint #1 - group hints
What are some clues for today's NYT Connections groups?
YELLOW: Moving to music
GREEN:Parts of a popular board game
BLUE: Organizing website material
PURPLE: A manly thing that almost rhymes with “ankles”
Need more clues?
We're firmly in spoiler territory now, but read on if you want to know what the four theme answers are for today's NYT Connections puzzles…
NYT Connections today (game #1108) - hint #2 - group answers
What are the answers for today's NYT Connections groups?
YELLOW: DANCE STYLES
GREEN: IN A MONOPOLY BOX
BLUE: CONTENT SORTING OPTIONS ONLINE
PURPLE: THINGS WITH MANTLES/ MANTELS
Right, the answers are below, so DO NOT SCROLL ANY FURTHER IF YOU DON'T WANT TO SEE THEM.
NYT Connections today (game #1108) - the answers
(Image credit: New York Times)
The answers to today's Connections, game #1108, are…
YELLOW: DANCE STYLES FOXTROT, MODERN, SWING, TAP
GREEN: IN A MONOPOLY BOX DEED, HOTEL, MONEY, TOKEN
PURPLE: THINGS WITH MANTLES/ MANTELS EARTH, EMPEROR, FIREPLACE, YANKEES
My rating: Hard
My score: Perfect
The phonetic alphabet featuring HOTEL, FOXTROT and crucially Yankee — not YANKEES — was today’s trap/joke and were it not for the easy to spot DANCE STYLES I may well have fallen for it.
Yankee Hotel Foxtrot is also the name of a great album by Wilco, but I digress…
I got the blue group next, thinking that all four words described seemed like labels you’d put on a report rather than CONTENT SORTING OPTIONS ONLINE, which considering I do quite a lot of Content Sorting I really should have seen.
The final group I found was IN A MONOPOLY BOX, although I can’t say I have ever thought of the street name cards as being a DEED.
Yesterday's NYT Connections answers (Monday, June 22, game #1107)
PURPLE: STARTING WITH EXPLOSIVE ONOMATOPOEIA BANGKOK, BOOMER, POPSICLE, POWDER
What is NYT Connections?
NYT Connections is one of several increasingly popular word games made by the New York Times. It challenges you to find groups of four items that share something in common, and each group has a different difficulty level: green is easy, yellow a little harder, blue often quite tough and purple usually very difficult.
On the plus side, you don't technically need to solve the final one, as you'll be able to answer that one by a process of elimination. What's more, you can make up to four mistakes, which gives you a little bit of breathing room.
It's a little more involved than something like Wordle, however, and there are plenty of opportunities for the game to trip you up with tricks. For instance, watch out for homophones and other word games that could disguise the answers.
It's playable for free via the NYT Games site on desktop or mobile.
A new NYT Strands puzzle appears at midnight each day for your time zone – which means that some people are always playing 'today's game' while others are playing 'yesterday's'. If you're looking for Monday's puzzle instead then click here: NYT Strands hints and answers for Monday, June 22 (game #841).
Strands is the NYT's latest word game after the likes of Wordle, Spelling Bee and Connections – and it's great fun. It can be difficult, though, so read on for my Strands hints.
Want more word-based fun? Then check out my NYT Connections today and Quordle today pages for hints and answers for those games, and Marc's Wordle today page for the original viral word game.
SPOILER WARNING: Information about NYT Strands today is below, so don't read on if you don't want to know the answers.
NYT Strands today (game #842) - hint #1 - today's theme
What is the theme of today's NYT Strands?
• Today's NYT Strands theme is… A whole new world
NYT Strands today (game #842) - hint #2 - clue words
Play any of these words to unlock the in-game hints system.
FOOT
LOCKER
TABLE
GEAR
ROAR
BRAT
NYT Strands today (game #842) - hint #3 - spangram letters
How many letters are in today's spangram?
• Spangram has 9 letters
NYT Strands today (game #842) - hint #4 - spangram position
What are two sides of the board that today's spangram touches?
First side: left, 5th row
Last side: right, 2nd row
Right, the answers are below, so DO NOT SCROLL ANY FURTHER IF YOU DON'T WANT TO SEE THEM.
NYT Strands today (game #842) - the answers
(Image credit: New York Times)
The answers to today's Strands, game #842, are…
FOOD
BLOCK
ARMOR
BUILDING
PORTAL
STORAGE
TOOL
SPANGRAM: MINECRAFT
My rating: Easy
My score: Perfect
Typically, Aladdin and the version of A Whole New World performed by the late, great Peabo Bryson dominated my first thoughts when tackling today’s puzzle.
However, instead of a “a magic carpet ride” our search was focused on the created worlds of MINECRAFT, something I learned after spotting the spangram immediately.
From here it was a case of trying to remember all of the terminology connected with the game, nearly all of which I’ve forgotten after a brief interest courtesy of two obsessed-with-Minecraft nephews; FOOD was my first spot, of course.
Yesterday's NYT Strands answers (Monday, June 22, game #841)
CREEPS
JITTERS
SHIVERS
WILLIES
BUTTERFLIES
SPANGRAM: GOOSEBUMPS
What is NYT Strands?
Strands is the NYT's not-so-new-any-more word game, following Wordle and Connections. It's now a fully fledged member of the NYT's games stable that has been running for a year and which can be played on the NYT Games site on desktop or mobile.
I've got a full guide to how to play NYT Strands, complete with tips for solving it, so check that out if you're struggling to beat it each day.
I test over a dozen coffee makers every year here at TechRadar, and Breville's espresso and drip coffee machines are consistently some of the best around. That quality doesn't come cheap, but during Amazon Prime Day I'm hoping to find one of my favorites at a deep discount.
All of these machines are totally beginner-friendly, and will help you achieve consistently delicious results even if you've never tried making coffee at home before.
First, a word on names: these coffee makers are sold under the name 'Breville' in the US and Australia, but 'Sage' in the UK. They are the exact same coffee makers, but the name 'Breville' was already taken by a different company in the UK. Now, on with my wish list.
1. Breville Barista Touch Impress with Cold Extraction
FutureFutureFutureFutureFutureFutureFuture
If you're looking for an espresso machine this Prime Day, the Barista Touch Impress with Cold Extraction is a great pick. It's normally pretty pricey, but with the right discount it'll be easy to recommend, helping you achieve perfectly balanced espresso every time even if you've never touched a portafilter before.
The Impress Puck System is my favorite feature, letting you pull down a lever to tamp your freshly ground coffee without having to remove the portafilter handle from beneath the grinder. You never have to move a filter basket full of loose coffee and risk spilling it, and the tactile feeling of the lever is very satisfying.
Cold brewing involves allowing the bed of ground coffee to infuse in cold water (a process known as blooming) before it’s extracted at high pressure. The result is a smooth-tasting drink that’s a good alternative to traditionally-made cold brew, in a fraction of the time. Delicious.
The Luxe Brewer Thermal is the best drip coffee maker I've tested to date, and I've got my eyes peeled for a good Prime Day discount so I can take the plunge and pick one up for myself.
Brewing a batch of drip coffee is, fundamentally, a very straightforward process – you just pour hot water onto ground coffee and let it drip into a carafe – and the Luxe Brewer Thermal keeps things simple while providing a handful of genuinely useful customization options. In my tests, the default settings worked well, but if you don't get just the right flavor from your beans you can tweak the bloom time (how long the coffee is pre-infused with hot water), bloom temperature, brew time, and brew temperature to fine-tune the extraction.
It can also prepare a batch of cold-brewed coffee. Add ground beans and water, and your coffee will be steeped cold for 24 hours. The machine will beep to alert you when it's ready, so all you need to do is add ice and enjoy. Perfect for hot summer days.
The Barista Express is a mid-range semi-automatic espresso machine that's a nice step up if you're currently using a capsule coffee maker and want to start getting more hands-on with your morning brew. The Express can dose and grind the beans for you, but you'll tamp the coffee yourself, use the razor tool to get it to the perfect level, and steam your own milk. It's a lot of fun once you get the hang of it.
There are some nice touches too, like the cool-touch handle on the steam wand, aforementioned levelling tool, and a temperature gauge on the milk pitcher to make sure you don't scald your foam (nobody wants that).
This is one of Breville's older semi-automatics, so if we're lucky we could see some very generous deals this Prime Day, potentially knocking several hundred off the regular price.
The Steam Machine is making headlines today, mostly for the sticker shock. While undoubtedly interesting, the Machine's high price has sent many prospective buyers reeling. Such is the price of a new gaming PC today.
Not all is lost, however, as there are still some good deals out there for gamers. If you're willing to go for a laptop, for example, then you can score some relatively good options in the Prime Day adjacent sales events this week. Best Buy's 'Tech Fest' sale is particularly good right now.
Just below, you can see four gaming laptop deals that come in at around the same price as a Steam Machine, give or take.
My top pick, so far, has to be this Acer Nitro V Slim 16 with an RTX 5070 for $999.99 (was $1,299) at Best Buy. This one is the cheapest RTX 5070 gaming laptop I've seen in months, though I think Best Buy has mistakenly labeled the chipset on this machine (you can read more about that here).
Another very good option, in my opinion, is the Acer Predator Helios Neo 16S for $1,199 (was $1,724) at Best Buy. This one will cost a bit more than a Steam Machine, but you do get a premium OLED display. If you're not planning to hook up your machine to an external monitor, that can go a long way. Read more about this laptop and others, just down below.
It's been a long time since I've seen an RTX 5070 gaming laptop go for this cheap, but is this Acer Nitro V Slim 16 is hitting a rock-bottom price at Best Buy today. Almost unbelievably, I believe this one is incorrectly listed with a "Ryzen 2000 series" chipset rather than a Ryzen 7-260 since you get 16GB of DDR5 RAM. Regardless, this is a rare example of a budget RTX 5070 gaming laptop. View Deal
The above Acer Nitro V Slim 16 also comes in an Intel-based configuration, which is also a decent buy today. It's a little pricier, but you get an Intel Core 7 Series 2 chipset and 16GB of DDR5 RAM. These should, on paper at least, give you a decent boost in performance.View Deal
This Acer Predator Helios Neo 16S might seem like it's a little on the pricey side for a machine with an RTX 5060, but this is a great price on this premium model. Not only do you get a powerful Intel Core Ultra 9 chipset under the hood here, but this Predator Helios Neo 16S also features a high-end OLED display, which is a notch above the usual panels you find on cheaper machines.View Deal
The price cut on this HP Omen 16 at Best Buy isn't huge, but it's still one of the best value RTX 5070 gaming laptops you'll find on the market this week. Pairing up your RTX 5070 with a powerful Intel Ultra 9 chipset means plenty of headroom for all the latest titles. Annoyingly, this machine only comes with 16GB of RAM, but you do get a spacious 1TB SSD as a bonus.View Deal
While Prime Day officially kicks off tomorrow, Tuesday, June 23, Best Buy has launched a rival sale today, and the TV deals are very good. The discounts are so good that I can't imagine you'll find better prices at Amazon's Prime Day sale.
Best Buy is offering its lowest prices yet on this year's best-rated TVs, from brands like Samsung, LG, TCL, and Insignia. The retailer is offering first-time discounts on brand-new 2026 displays, as well as massive price cuts on best-selling older models, resulting in a wide range of 4K, QLED, and OLED TVs on sale.
Keep in mind these are limited-time offers, and Best Buy's Tech Fest Sale ends on Sunday at Midnight. I can't imagine you'll find better discounts on these exact models at Amazon's Prime Day sale, and unlike Prime Day, Best Buy's TV deals don't require a membership.
Best Buy's top TV deals that beat Prime Day
Best Buy's cheapest TV deal is Insignia's 40-inch FE Series Fire TV for just $79.99. The Fire TV features Full HD resolution, DTS Virtual :X Sound for impressive audio, smart capabilities with the Fire OS, and a voice remote with hands-free Alexa – all for under $100.View Deal
If you're looking for a mid-size budget display, Best Buy's Tech Fest sale has Roku's best-selling 50-inch QLED smart TV for just $229.99. For that money, you get a QLED display in brilliant 4K resolution, an enhanced voice remote, and the excellent Roku smart TV interface.View Deal
You can get the best-selling Insignia 55-inch F50 Series 4K TV for an incredible price of $179.99. The Insignia F50 Series TV features 4K HD resolution, DTS Studio Sound, smart capabilities with Fire OS, and a voice remote with hands-free Alexa, so you can use your voice to control your TV.View Deal
This entry-level Mini-LED TV from TCL is an excellent buy at this low price. Newer and more powerful versions are available, but in terms of value for money, this display is incredibly hard to beat. It offers a detailed, bright picture, vivid colors, and an intuitive Google TV interface to access top streaming apps. It's a whole lot of TV for a relatively low price.View Deal
If you've been eyeing Samsung's gorgeous The Frame QLED TV, Best Buy has the 65-inch model on sale for its lowest price yet. The 2025 Samsung Frame TV features Pantone art-validated colors that deliver lifelike images. The display now comes with Streams, a complimentary set of artwork streamed from the Samsung Art Store.View Deal
Best Buy's rival Prime Day sale has a rare discount on Samsung's all-new 65-inch R85H Micro RGB 4K Smart TV. Perfect for watching the World Cup on, Samsung's R85H Series delivers brilliant colors that come to life thanks to its Micro RGB technology and AI engine.View Deal
The LG C5 OLED is TechRadar's best-rated TV, and Best Buy has the 65-inch model on sale for $1,299.99, thanks to a whopping $1,400 discount. The five-star OLED display delivers an outstanding picture thanks to LG's Alpha 9 AI processor Gen8, impressive gaming features, and a comprehensive smart platform featuring all-new AI capabilities.
Samsung's S90F OLED TV earned five stars in our review, and Best Buy has the 65-inch model on sale for $1,199.99, thanks to a hefty $1,300 discount. The S90F OLED TV delivers an outstanding picture, thanks to quantum dot OLED technology and Samsung's NQ4 AI Gen3 processor. You're also getting extensive gaming features and Samsung's impressive Tizen operating system.
Samsung's U7900F Crystal TV is a best-seller here at TechRadar, and you can find the 65-inch model for an unbelievable $299.99. This entry-level TV from Samsung packs a solid 'Crystal' UHD 4K processor, an easy-to-use Tizen operating system, and full HDR support for under $300, which is an absolute steal.View Deal
This is a 75-inch QLED TV from a trusted brand for an amazingly low price. This TV uses QLED tech for rich colors, paired with support for both Dolby Vision and HDR10+. Amazon's Fire TV software ensures it's fully equipped for all streaming needs.View Deal
The LG B5 is this year's best budget OLED TV, and Best Buy's Tech Fest sale has a massive 53% discount on the 77-inch model. Released last year, the LG B5 is TechRadar's best budget OLED TV and was awarded four and a half stars in our review. The LG display delivers an exceptional picture with brilliant colors and sharp contrast. You also get excellent gaming features, thanks to the four HDMI 2.1 ports and new AI tools, including AI Search, AI Concierge, and an improved AI Chatbot.
Time flies when you're shopping bargain prices! June has flown by, with just a week left for July to come calling. That means if you need to pick up any work-related items and claim them in the upcoming tax returns, you need to do it in the next 7 days.
There are still plenty of EOFY sales going strong, but most of those deals will end on June 30, although a few brands and retailers will continue into July. However, you'll need to wait till your FY 26/27 tax lodgement to claim those purchases.
As we've done all month long, my team and I are still looking to dig up those choice EOFY tech deals that are worth your hard-earned cash. They may not be the absolute best price we might have historically seen, but if there's good value in the purchase, we'll tell you about it.
Apple device owners who value great noise cancellation can't go wrong with the AirPods Pro 3, which now also features live translation and a built-in heart rate monitor for those who like to work out with them. The fit is more comfortable and more secure than its predecessors too, but check out our review for the full scoop. View Deal
With a hefty price hike confirmed for September, you'll want to act fast if you want to nab the Switch at a decent price. Offering a bigger screen, nicer controllers and more power than its predecessor, the Switch 2 is the ultimate couch-co-op console that also works on the go.
Our reviewer called the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra the best Android phone ever and it’s also one of the best phones on the market, thanks to its blazing fast Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 for Galaxy chipset and some new features like a built-in Privacy Display and Horizon Lock for shooting videos.View Deal
Samsung has long been king of the Dolby Atmos soundbar packages, and the latest Q990H is no different, so it's great to see it with such a significant discount for EOFY. Read our full Samsung HW-Q990H review. Make sure to click the price beat button for the full discount. View Deal
Officially, this film camera-inspired digital version is called the X-HF1, but it made headlines as the X Half. If you're a film photography buff but don't have the cash to spend on rolls (and the subsequent processing of the negatives), this is one offer not to be missed. It works very much like a half-frame film camera, just digitally and produces results that have a similar look too.View Deal
The JBL Grip plugs the gap between the smaller Clip and formidable Flip. It's a compact speaker that delivers a big sound, offers impressive protection against dust and water and has some nifty LED lighting on its rear. The Flip 7 is still our top recommendation, but with the Grip current equal to the lowest price we have seen, it's a great buy. View Deal
Headphones & speakers
Keen on the newest AirPods but not that keen on the high prices? If you aren't too fussed about noise cancellation, then the base model AirPods 4 with ANC are at a surprisingly low price on Amazon right now. You'll get a lovely soundstage and up to 5 hours of playback, and arguably the buds to pair with an iPhone.View Deal
Offering “incredible sound” according to our review, the Bose Ultra Open Earbuds have all the power and quality you’d expect from a Bose-branded item while providing the benefits of an open-ear form factor. The Immersive sound is excellent, and they give up to 7 hours of music. The black colour option is the cheapest, but the other two are not much more via the same listing.View Deal
Not only do the Technics EAH-AZ100 offer dynamic, energetic sound, but they're also impressively well-balanced, making them a great choice for audiophiles who want the convenience of earbuds. Plus, they're AU$150 off, which is a serious bargain.View Deal
Arguably one of the best headphones we've tested with Dolby Atmos support, the Sonos Ace is also one of the better-looking and more comfortable cans. Also available in black with the same discount. Click the price beat button to get the full discount. View Deal
These gorgeous cans were AU$508 during Amazon's Mid-Year Sale last week, but they're cheaper now in all the colourways. So if you missed out on picking up these stunning 5-star cans then, you were lucky. They're truly marvellous and are our pick for the best noise-cancelling headphones. Make sure to hit the Price Beat button for the best price.View Deal
Seasoned audiophiles usually recommend a pair of open-back open ear headphones for serious listening at home, just like the classic Sennheiser HD 600. These headphones have been on the market since 1997 (in fact, our review was published in 2007), attesting to their longevity. The HD 600 has been a favourite in studios for audio mixing, mastering, and critical listening. Be sure to use the checkout code JUNE15EOFY to secure this price.View Deal
This compact, portable Bose speaker delivers a big sound and a raft of handy useful features, including a customisable shortcut button, built-in EQ controls and reliable Bluetooth 5.3 connectivity. There's also AAC codec support. You can pair two for stereo sound or use the dedicated Party Mode to make it louder.
Louder than the Book 4 listed above, the Megaboom 4 might just be the Bluetooth speaker you need, albeit at a slightly higher price than the former. For the extra cash, you're also getting more battery (20 hours compared to 15 in the Boom 4), but they're both just as good-looking and rugged, with 360º sound. If you're after space-filling tunes, then opt for the Megaboom 4. The pink colourway is cheapest at present, but I'd happily recommend the others at around the AU$250 mark.View Deal
Offering bold sound that doesn't distort at high volumes, an attractive design and a brilliant 24-hour battery life, the JBL Xtreme 4 Bluetooth speaker is well worth considering if you've been looking or a powerful music player. It might now have been supplanted by the Xtreme 5, but it's hard to beat at this price.View Deal
It might be expensive compared to other Bluetooth speakers you can get, but if you want big and punchy sound, this is the party speaker you should reach for. It will even charge your handheld devices for you thanks to its two-way USB-C port. Bose wraps up excellent sound quality and an enjoyable user experience in an attractive, outdoor-friendly package.View Deal
This HP 15.6-inch laptop is a great option if you want an affordable Windows machine with more memory than most budget models. The Ryzen 7 7735HS and 32GB RAM gives it plenty of headroom for heavier everyday multitasking, though the 256GB SSD is pretty small, so cloud storage or an external drive may be needed if you need more space. Use the code FUTURE5 to get the full discount. View Deal
This Dell 14 Plus is a nice option if you need a compact Windows laptop for study, office apps and browser-heavy work. The Ryzen AI 7 350, 16GB RAM and 1TB SSD are a solid mix for the money, while the 14-inch 2K display and 1.52kg starting weight mean it's pretty portable. Our Dell 14 Plus review found it well suited to general-use productivity, though not heavy gaming or serious video editing. Use code FUTUREAU5% at checkout to get the full discount.View Deal
The MacBook Air M4 is often on sale, so while this discount isn't unusual, it's about as good as it gets for an Apple product. Note that this is the M4 model, and the new M5 costs AU$1,697 from Amazon (though it starts with a 512GB SSD) and AU$1,799 from Apple.
Need a slim but still reasonably powerful laptop? The Yoga Slim 7i Aura features the new Series 2 Intel Core Ultra5 226V CPU, a compact 14-inch 1920 x 1200 OLED display, plus premium features like a facial recognition webcam and Wi-Fi 7. Want to know more? Check out our Lenovo Yoga Slim 7i Aura review.View Deal
This large screen 2-in-1 from HP uses the latest Series 2 Core Ultra 7 258V CPU, for solid performance and long battery life. The 16-inch laptop has a 2.8K OLED touchscreen display with great 100% DCI-P3 colour. It also has loads of RAM, a large SSD and the latest features like Wi-Fi 7 and a facial recognition webcam. Use the code FUTURE5 to get the full discount. View Deal
This is a decent discount on a 16-inch gaming laptop with a more premium screen than the basic Full HD panels you’ll often see around this price. The Ryzen AI 7 350, RTX 5060 and 1TB SSD make it a useful fit for gaming, study and everyday work, though 16GB RAM isn’t generous. The RTX 5060 is pretty good, but you will need to use DLSS or lower settings in demanding games at the native 2560 x 1600 resolution.View Deal
For gamers on a budget, the LOQ laptop lineup is quite affordable — even if we have seen it AU$200 cheaper. Working alongside the 100W TGP RTX 5050 GPU, the LOQ has an older but grunty AMD Ryzen 7 250 CPU and 16GB of RAM. It's not exactly the most powerful machine, but the RTX 5050 will give decent frame rates on the 1080p, 144Hz display.View Deal
The Pro model of one of our favourite Lenovo laptops has a decent discount on the RTX 5070 variant, though it is AU$300 more than on Black Friday. Sure, the web price before discount is beyond steep, but on sale it's excellent value for a premium gaming machine with an OLED, 2560 x 1600, 165Hz display.View Deal
Adding more screen real estate to your workflow can be essential, but if that setup needs to be portable, then a small monitor rather than a full on second larger screen is the way to go. Aussie company Laser has just released a family of portable monitors that are quite affordable and already discounted, with the largest 15.6-inch display now down to just AU$149. Not bad.View Deal
We haven’t tested this 34-inch OLED screen, but our colleagues at Tom’s Guide have, with the writer calling it one of the best gaming monitors of the past 20 years. It offers a superfast 0.03ms response time and a 240Hz refresh rate, packaged in with a 2K resolution across its ultrawide display. View Deal
[Current price is from a third party seller not Amazon sonot recommended]
Amazon has a lower list price than what this 1TB portable SSD retails for — Samsung lists it for AU$549, then discounts by AU$50, while JB Hi-Fi lists it for AU$449. So this is a bigger discount than the 16% Amazon is displaying and makes for a fabulous deal to help you back up your important data. I've used the T5 previously and currently use the 2TB T7 Shield, and while it's tempting to upgrade, it's plenty fast. So just imagine how good the upgraded portable SSD will be for you.View Deal
Logitech's cute and wireless Pebble Keys 2 board has been this price before, and it's not bad at all for an attractive little addition to your desk for your child's. By no means that cheapest price I've seen, it's still quite affordable, with the white option being the cheapest right now.View Deal
While not the very lowest price we have seen, this is still a decent discount. We suggest you read our TP-Link Deco BE63 review for the full breakdown, but suffice to say it's very fast, and while Wi-Fi 7 isn't widely supported just yet, it gives great future proofing. It's also ideal for gamers, or those with a NAS, as the mesh nodes include a 2.5G network port.View Deal
You really don't need to spend a four-figure sum on a brand-new folding phone. The Razr 60, which is still the most current entry-level Motorola flip phone as the Razr 70 hasn't launched locally yet, is down to just AU$799, which I reckon is a good price for someone keen to try out a folding phone. The Pantone colours are a nice touch, too.View Deal
Our Google Pixel 10 Pro XL review called it the "most satisfying, refined Android phone you can buy today" thanks to an incredible display, superb battery life and plenty of AI features and excellent photography skills. This price from JB Hi-Fi is the lowest we’ve seen for the Pixel 10 Pro XL, apart from telco deals that require you to sign up for a long-term contract.View Deal
Our review called the Galaxy Z Fold 7 "the perfect foldable" for its new thin and light form factor, upgraded camera array over its predecessor and AI features that maximise the whole screen when folded out. This AU$1,012 discount is the most we've seen from Australian retailers (even beating the best telcos we've seen). Make sure to press the "Price Beat" button to get this price.View Deal
A big discount makes the 1TB iPhone Air much easier to recommend if you want Apple's thinnest iPhone with plenty of storage. Our iPhone Air review praised its slim, light design, excellent 6.5-inch ProMotion display and fast A19 Pro chip, though the single rear camera and merely decent battery life make the iPhone 17 Pro a better fit for those who love to take photos.View Deal
It might be the entry-level iPad but the A16 chip delivers fast, responsive performance on this affordable iPad. If you don't need a huge amount of power, but looking for an excellent tablet for a bit of gaming, lots of browsing and watching content, maybe even FaceTiming friends and family, this will suit you well. The best price is on the Yellow and Pink colours.View Deal
The latest in Samsung's well-received budget tablet range, the A11+ picks up where the A9 left off, and at the same price too. This is the base model, with just Wi-Fi connectivity and 128GB of storage, but you can expand that easily to up to 2TB via a microSD card. If you need an Android tablet for daily use like browsing, watching videos and maybe playing a few games, this one's well worth considering.View Deal
This 2025 release of the iPad Air is powerful and even though it was AU$797 not that long ago on Amazon, this 17% discount is still worth considering on the entry-level 128GB storage option. And if you use it for work, make sure you claim it in your returns and save a little more in the long run.View Deal
If you want the best of the best when it comes to Samsung tablets, then the Galaxy Tab S11 Ultra is the ultimate option for both specs and size, thanks to a gigantic 14.6-inch screen. Our Samsung Galaxy Tab S11 Ultra review, praised the huge AMOLED display and that the 16:10 aspect ratio worked better for watching videos on it compared to the 4:3 ratio in iPads. The biggest criticism was the price given its CPU, but this discount addresses that somewhat.View Deal
Still definitely an investment, but this could well be the perfect laptop replacement if you work on the go a lot. The M5 chip is Apple's most powerful to date, and if you use your savings to pick up a keyboard folio, this does become a far more portable package than a MacBook Pro. And if you're definitely using it for work, it's tax deductible too.View Deal
Cheaper than what it was last year during EOFY, it's rare to see bigger offers than this on Android epaper notebooks. If you want the versatility that the OS offers, I love this tablet, more so than a reMarkable! You can read more about it in my Onyx Boox Go 10.3 review, but know that this is a good investment if you'd like a versatile E Ink tablet. View Deal
Kogan Internet's plan pricing has been fluctuating lately, and thankfully has returned to AU$69.90p/m for the first 12 months. That makes it the the outright cheapest provider over the first year of service, making it a great option if you want to experience the faster download speeds for a low fee.
• AU$69.90 minimum cost • AU$838.80 first year cost • AU$1,030.80 ongoing yearly costView Deal
Superloop is currently offering a savings of up to AU$180 over the first six months on any of its NBN plans, and throwing in a free Eero 7 modem, which costs AU$299.99 for a single unit. My pick of the Superloop offers would be the Family Max option in the NBN 500 tier as I think it's sufficient for most households. That's a saving of AU$156 on this specific plan over six months. • AU$984 first year cost • AU$1,140 ongoing yearly costView Deal
We haven't tried this vacuum ourselves, but user reviews are glowing. And every time we've listed it during a sale, it sold out real quick. For easy daily vacuuming, this is great and excellent value, now having dropped to an all-time low price of just AU$199.View Deal
With powerful and dynamic suction, plenty of attachments and an auto-empty charging dock, this is arguably the best value non-Dyson cordless vacuum right now. Read our review for the full scoop. Often sold around the AU$750 price point, we have seen it as low as AU$608, but this is still a great deal on what is my pick of the best stick vacuum cleaner in Australia. View Deal
Cheaper than what Dyson is discounting this machine for, the V9 Submarine comes with the Digital Motorbar and the Submarine floorheads, so you can vacuum and mop, just not at the same time. Of course, it's cheaper than other Dysons as its suction is just 100AW, but if you don't have pets and not too many carpets to contend with, it's definitely worth considering.View Deal
Dyson's most recent vacuum cleaner is a little more powerful than the V8 Cyclone announced prior to it, with up to 150AW of suction. Where it differs to the V8 Cyclone and the older Cyclone V10 models is the floorhead that comes with it — this model uses the same FluffyCones floorhead as the flagship V16, which we've found doesn't clean that well, as the tiny space between the two FluffyCones leaves a streak of uncleaned floor as it moves along. However, it's compatible with Dyson's first ever auto-empty dock (great news), which can be purchased separately. Sadly the bundle is not discounted.View Deal
It's been succeeded by the V16 Piston Animal as the most powerful Dyson yet, but the suction here is still superb. Which is why I've picked this offer even though it's not the cheapest this vacuum has been. For your money, you get up to 280AW of suction which works wonders on the dirtiest of carpets, up to 70 minutes of runtime and a dust detection sensor that allows you to graphically view how much dirt the vacuum has sucked up. You'll also get a total of 5 attachments, including the Fluffy Optic and Digital Motorbar for different floor types.View Deal
In our Dreame L10s Ultra review, we called this handy little gadget a "a robot vacuum powerhouse" that will "do as it's told" – what more do you want from a robot vacuum? This big discount is the equal lowest price yet on Amazon, and buys a machine that automatically detects floor types, empties itself, has a useful onboard camera and an intuitive mobile app.View Deal
This robovac has some of the best obstacle avoidance we have seen in a robovac and it scored 4 stars in our Dreame X40 Ultra review. Even better, many of the complaints we had at the time (such as the slightly slunky app) have been fixed. View Deal
Kitchen appliances
This little pod machine is very popular among TechRadar's Aussie team. We've had past and present staff say how much they love it, and they'd even buy it at full price. With a very compact footprint and plenty of Vertuo ppds to choose from, you'll get delicious coffee at just the press of a button. Available in black and white for just AU$88, but you can also opt for the Lilac for AU$99.View Deal
It's got a cult-like following and two members of our own staff are massive fans. If you love your chilled desserts – ice creams, gelatos, smoothies – but want to control your calorie intake, you really should consider getting the Ninja Creami. This Deluxe edition gets you three containers, which is great value at this price.View Deal
The Ninja Slushi lets you skip the ice and still enjoy perfectly smooth icy drinks with very little effort. Whether you're craving a frappe, smoothie, or even a cheeky spiked slushi, its multiple drink modes have you covered. Even better, the current deal price is the lowest we have seen on Amazon. Check out our Ninja Slushi review for the full rundown. View Deal
More compact than the dual-basket Philips air fryer with steam, yet not compromising on capacity, this 5000 Series appliance is also safer, using a ceramic-coated basket. A window inside is also a lovely touch. Armed with the power to also steam and, well, air steam, you can do a lot more with this than most traditional air fryers.View Deal
It isn't presented as a deal but Ninja has confirmed to me that the RRP of its bigger glass air fryer is AU$499, with an introductory price of AU$399. Which makes this delicious value indeed as you get two glass baskets (one large and one small) and can cook a massive meal that could well feed nearly 10 people.View Deal
Philips is the undisputed king of air fryers and the 5000 Series XXL offers a generous 7.2L/1.4kg capacity (enough to feed six people), 16 different cooking functions and even Wi-Fi connectivity and a smartphone app with recipes that can send commands straight to the fryer. The basket is also dishwasher safe for easy cleaning.View Deal
Ninja released the larger Crispi Pro just last week, so it's no wonder that the older model is getting some good discounts right now. If you don't need to feed up to 10 people, the original Crispi will suffice. It packs 1700W of power into a portable design, with two borosilicate glassware containers that serve as both frying baskets and serving dishes. The borosilicate means they can also withstand extreme temperatures, making it easy to take your favourite foods from frozen to crispy, and it's safer to use than any non-stick basket. The Crispi also comes with two removable crisping grates and two snap-on container lids for easy food-storage post-feast.View Deal
It was AU$50 cheaper on Amazon not that long ago, but it's still worth listing at this price for how good it really is as an air fryer. Not taking up a lot of space and yet offering dual-basket cooking, the DoubleStack is a fantastic option for even small kitchens. It boasts six cooking options (including air frying, crisping, roasting, baking, dehydrating and reheating) and both drawers can cook independently, with two non-stick crisper plates and two stacked meal racks in the box – meaning it can cook four separate meals at once.View Deal
Ever cooked with steam in an air fryer? Now you can with this Philips two-drawer air fryer. In our Philips 5000 Series Dual Basket XXL Air Fryer Steam review, we said that it cooks everything really well, but there are some caveats to keep in mind when it comes to the use of steam. Still, it's absolutely worth the investment if you want to upgrade from an old air fryer, although it has been cheaper before.View Deal
The latest Vertuo machine from Nespresso is sleek and compact, meaning it will fit in any kitchen. It uses the Vertuo pods, which are available in a wide choice of sizes, from single-shot espresso to large mugs. You can even get iced coffee pods too. This bundle includes the Aeroccino milk frother for cappuccinos and lattes, too.View Deal
Promising simplicity of use, the De'Longhi Magnifica S has an easy-to-use touch control panel that allows you to brew two cups simultaneously with the minimum amount of effort. It also has a silent integrated grinder with 13 settings, plus a handy milk frother too, so it’s a good all-in-one solution. View Deal
My colleague loves this bean-to-cup espresso machine — check out his Sunbeam Origins Sense Espresso Machine review for the full scoop — as it brews a wonderful shot of coffee, is simple to use and thanks to a built-in thermometer in the steam wand, milk is texturised to perfection too. This is the lowest price I've seen in a long time, making it a great, affordable kitchen upgrade. Hit the Price Beat button for the full saving.View Deal
This Smeg coffee machine is a slight variation of our favourite automatic coffee machines, with the main difference being this model features a manual steam wand as opposed to the other's automatic system. Elsewhere, this produces the same, delicious coffee-based drinks and looks damn fine doing it. Be sure to use The Good Guys' price-beat button for this discount.View Deal
Other appliances
AU$100 cheaper than during Big Smile Sale, it's a good opportunity to pick up the Supersonic Nural. Read our review for more, but it offers a wealth of intelligent features to better care for your hair, along with multiple attachments to create all kinds of styles. View Deal
Promising to take way less time to straighten hair than traditional flat irons by working just fine in wet hair, the Airstrait is the hair-care tool making headlines. It won't burn wet hair as other straighteners would, leaving you with less hair damage and a quicker styling session in the mornings. This is a higher price than what we saw during March's Big Smile Sale, but it's still a significant price drop.View Deal
The LG C6 continues to set the bar for what can be achieved in a 'mid-range' OLED TV. I've long considered the C5 to be the best TV for most people, and I have zero doubt the C6 will take over the mantle. The 77-inch model on sale here (along with the larger 83-inch) uses the same second-generation Primary RGB Tandem OLED panel as the flagship G6. As a result, you can expect improved performance over the smaller screen sizes. To get the price here, make sure to hit the Price Beat button.View Deal
The S90H is brand new for 2026, and while we've not reviewed it just yet, we expect it to be a formidable performer. One of the key updates this year is the same Glare Free technology as found in the flagship S95H, making it a great (and more affordable) option for brighter rooms.View Deal
I wasn't expecting to see a discount on the brand-new R95H Micro RGB TV for EOFY, but here we are. It promises to deliver superb colours, covering 100% of the BT.2020 colour space, and is powered by processors developed specifically for it. It also benefits from the anti-glare tech for use in brighter rooms.View Deal
If you're a loyal Sony fan, then the company's latest Bravia 8 II QD-OLED should pique your interest. As we said in our review of the TV, it performs superbly in dimly lit conditions, serving up a picture that is "impressively punchy". Turn the lights up and things can suffer a little, but overall this is Sony's best picture quality to date. Hit the Price Beat button for the full saving.View Deal
The Sony Bravia 8 is a great option for most people. Despite using a 'standard' WOLED panel, it benefits from Sony's impressive processing technology to generate excellent levels of brightness, coupled with beautiful, natural colours. It's built-in sound system is also one of the best around.View Deal
A solid discount on this 2024 Sony TV. It's a mini-LED screen that Sony claims is a staggering 790% brighter than the X90L model it replaces. It also gets a new Prime Video Calibrated mode and some pretty neat energy saving settings that show exactly how much energy you're saving (or using) depending on your chosen settings. Make sure to hit the Price Beat button for the best price. View Deal
We haven’t reviewed this Bose soundbar, but if it’s anything like the brand’s other models, we’re confident it will do a mighty fine job of boosting the sound from your TV, ideal when watching movies. If you want to add even more low-end grunt, it works with the company’s Bass Modules (sold separately). A Dialogue mode helps to boost vocals, and if you fancy a dance around your bedroom or living room, Bluetooth is onboard for you to stream your favourite tunes.View Deal
A great saving here on LG's 9.1.5-channel Dolby Atmos soundbar, making it a deal you really should pay attention to. It's a genuinely great and immersive soundbar. The wireless subwoofer delivers thunderous bass, while the soundbar and rear speakers work in unison to deliver effective and authentic Dolby Atmos soundtracks.View Deal
The Sonos Beam Gen 2 is a simply superb soundbar, especially at this price. It delivers a convincing Dolby Atmos soundtrack and it sounds great with music (as you'd expect, being Sonos). View Deal
A fantastic deal on a super soundbar, and it looks like its the best price we've seen so far on. And even though it's still not cheap, it is very good. We're particularly fond of its ability to produce a full sound with excellent speech clarity, all within a compact frame. View Deal
A stonking saving on this uber-powerful JBL Dolby Atmos soundbar. Plus, it has the added benefit of removable side speakers that convert into rear speakers for a full surround effect. They can also be used independently as Bluetooth speakers. Also available at The Good Guys for the same price.
Arguably one of the best action cameras in the business, the GoPro Hero13 Black is now excellent value at this price. With top-notch image stabilisation and 5.3K oversampled video, the results are stunning for all your (mis)adventures. And there are accessories galore that you can snap up (pun intended) with the savings here.View Deal
For 360º action cameras, it doesn't get any better than the X5 from Insta360. With huge sensors, the X5 delivers 8K video and excels in low light. It's also feature-rich with replaceable lenses to boot. It was cheaper on Amazon but it's currently out of stock there, but even this 15% discount at JB Hi-Fi is worth considering.View Deal
This camera has gone viral in other countries, so much so that's it's hard to find stock. In Australia, however, there's plenty, and it offers fabulous value, especially since this is single-lens kit that's cheaper than the RRP of the body alone. It's one of the tiniest cameras available today and still comes packed with features for entry-level hybrid shooters. So go on, you won't regret it.View Deal
This might be an entry-level camera but it sure has some advanced features. Anyone who wants to shoot wildlife or sports will be thrilled with the 40fps burst speed, and it inherits some of the tracking precision from Canon's higher-end cameras too. With a 24.2MP full-frame sensor, it's one of the lightest cameras available today. And although it has been slightly cheaper before, the savings here are enough to get you a decent lens to start you off on your photography journey.View Deal
This is still a fantastic saving on an excellent Nikon full-framer. The 24.6MP sensor can shoot at up to 120fps, records 6K video, has built-in image stabilisation and has dual card slots, including one for a CFexpress device to make full use of its speed. Note, however, that this offer is from a third-party reseller on Amazon.View Deal
Wearables
A 4.5-star smartwatch with super-accurate health and activity tracking. If you throw in the industry-leading AI features, then you really do have the complete package that's perfect for Samsung users. It also looks quite good on the wrist, though be aware that black is current sold out. View Deal
This is a tempting price for iPhone users who want a full-featured Apple Watch without jumping to the Ultra. The always-on display, ECG app, sleep score, blood pressure monitoring and fitness tracking make it a useful everyday smartwatch, while the 42mm case is the more manageable size. Our Apple Watch Series 11 review praised the improved battery life, though Series 10 owners have less reason to upgrade.View Deal
This is one of Garmin's smartest smartwatches, with an updated Elevate V5 heart-rate sensor, multi-band GPS and an LED torch so you can stay outdoors safely for longer. It's fast, accurate and built like a tank. There's even 16GB of onboard storage for music and GPX maps.View Deal
Gaming hardware
It has gone lower in price before, but given the number of PS5-related discounts are so few and far between these days, this 25% saving on the PSVR2 is worth shouting about. In our PSVR 2 review we noted its superb image quality, simple setup, comfortable in-game experience and great responsiveness. The biggest drawback however was the price, but this discount can finally entice more PS5 players to dip into the VR space.View Deal
Gone are the days when you could pick up a PS5 for under AU$500. With the RRPs now much higher than before, but with similar discounts, this about the best you can do right now. While both the digital and disc versions are discounted, the former gets the higher discount.View Deal
Please don't confuse this with the ROG Xbox Ally X, which has more powerful specs. This is the cheaper sibling, now cheaper still on Amazon. And given the recent price hike of the Steam Deck, this handheld definitely seems a lot more tempting now even though it was slightly cheaper earlier in June.View Deal
Sure, it's a wired controller, but this gamepad is simple to use and durable, with drift-free hall effect analog sticks. In fact, the base of the sticks also have RGB, which is fantastic at this price. Being wired, however, means this isn't ideal for couch play, but if you're a PC gamer at your desk, it'll do wonderfully well.View Deal
Our gamers would recommend this Xbox controller in a heartbeat, considering it scored a full five stars in our Razer Wolverine V3 Pro review. And even though it's not a massive price drop, this 17% discount on a brand-new wireless controller matches the price of a refurbished one on Amazon.View Deal
While it was possible to nab these during Black Friday for AU$210, this is still a nice discount on a great gaming set. With these you're getting 300 hours of battery life, DTS Headphone:X Spatial Audio, and the Cloud series' now iconic tough-as-guts aluminium frame.View Deal
This is an incredible headset with a long-lasting battery life, exceptional surround sound, and handy removable microphone. In our Logitech G Pro X 2 review, we awarded the headset four and half stars, complimenting its lightweight construction, premium app, DTS Super Stereo integration and incredible audio, though noted it’s not cheap. Thankfully there’s a discount.View Deal
The Xreal One Pro isn’t cheap and I wasn't even expecting a discount, even a small one, but if you're keen on private gaming or your own personal cinema, you'll get stunning HD visuals that you can use at home or while travelling. These AR glasses come in two sizes — medium and large — at the same discounted price via the same JB Hi-Fi listing.View Deal
Office furniture
We haven't reviewed the M102C-M101, but we have been consistently impressed with the office chairs offered by Sihoo, complimenting them for their lightweight and adjustable designs, breathable fabrics and easy assembly. The M102C might be the chair you've been looking for, with its mesh design, lumbar pillow and headrest. View Deal
This is my office chair at home — I have the green one — and it's fabulous. It's got a rather voluptuous design that's not conducive to small spaces but, damn, does it look good! It's full mesh, so very breathable, it's also very ergonomic indeed, and has several points of adjustments to help you fine-tune it to your body. My favourite part is that the armrests are wider apart than other chairs I've used, giving me the feeling of spaciousness when I'm at my desk.View Deal
With a multitude of finishes and colours, Desky's standing desks are great options if you've been wanting to change your home office setup. For EOFY, you can add any of the Dual or L-shaped desks to cart and use the code DUAL150 to save AU$150 on a brand-new table.View Deal
7 days left! Well, that's 7 days until June 30, so it's the last stretch of EOFY sales and deals. If you've been procrastinating over purchasing any work-related tech, you're running out of time. You'll need the receipts by June 30 to be able to claim them as deductions in this financial year's tax lodgement. And if you get something back in your returns, that's extra savings right there, so don't let this chance pass you by.
So get a wriggle on, folks! Otherwise you'll be waiting another year to claim those tax deductions.
(F)old on! Just AU$799 for a flip phone
(Image credit: Motorola)
Where Samsung's fabulous flip phone, even when discounted, currently carries a four-figure price tag, you can get a 2025 release of the Motorola Razr for much less. And while it has some small compromises compared to the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7, the Razr 60 is still a great foldable, and fantastic value at just AU$799 — that's AU$100 cheaper than earlier during EOFY.
It has better battery life than its predecessor and is even more durable. And with the Motorola Razr 70 still not getting a launch window in Australia, the Razr 60 makes for an excellent foldable upgrade at a mid-range price.
Its front screen is slightly smaller (3.6 inches) than the 4.1-inch display on the Flip 7, but it can run most apps on that tiny screen. It's not as powerful as the Flip 7, but for all your basic needs, including doomscrolling, it handles perfectly well.
And, honestly, at this price, it's hard to complain.
I've come across plenty of smart lights in my time, having reviewed a fair few of them. But none have offered as much bang for buck as the Nanoleaf Matter Smart Floor Lamp.
I had initially set it up in my open-plan living and dining area but it's not bright enough for that larger space. However, now that I've moved it to my bedroom, it's a lovely addition. It's moody when I want it to be, becomes a reading light just before bedtime, and it's a fantastic wall washer.
I would easily recommend it at full price, but it's under AU$120, so why not indulge?
It's not the 10% discount we saw last week on Amazon, but then a deal like wouldn't last long, would it? Yet, if you can save even a little now, you'll be clear of the price hike coming in September, but you'll be getting a game bundle with the Nintendo Switch 2.
You can choose between the Mario Kart World Bundle at JB Hi-Fi or, for something newer, the Pokémon Pokopia bundle on Amazon, both of which will save you 7% on the usual retail price.
Whichever game bundle you opt for, it's the console that's the star of the show if you're a Nintendo fan. As we said in our Nintendo Switch 2 review, it takes everything we loved about the first generation, and applies greater power and upgraded 4K screen, to deliver a truly wonderful gaming experience.
If you didn't already know, we've managed to get Breville to give our readers an extra discount.
Whether you want a new coffee machine, a food processor, or even that fancy new Breville toaster, our readers can grab a unique single-use promo code from our dedicated Breville Australia coupon code page and apply it at checkout to secure an additional 10% discount on anything.
That's right, our promo code applies sitewide, even on already-discounted items on the Breville website.
You'll also get free shipping on anything above AU$49. So buying direct from Breville is a no-brainer with our exclusive code.
I already use the Philips 5000 Series Dual Basket Airfryer with Steam, but it's much too large for my tiny kitchen and so I'd been eyeing this updated version. Moreover, the non-stick coating of my air fryer's basket (which is non-toxic thankfully) is coming off, but I have it on good authority that the ceramic coating on the newer version is more long-lasting.
Honestly, I even prefer the design of this newer 5000 Series air fryer over my current dual-basket one. The metallic trim and the little window is enticing, although the side water tank is a little off putting. Still, that's a small price to pay for having steam as a cooking option which, let me tell you, is really useful. I use it on my current one often, making steamed fish parcels and dumplings.
I'm quite sure it will cook just as well as my dual-basket Philips, so I would whole-heartedly recommend it... and I'm rather tempted to buy it myself.
Analyst report claims primary smartphone market is expected to decline 14.8% in 2026
Entry level smartphone prices have already risen more than 50% this year
Refurbished smartphone sales grew 4% year-on-year during the first quarter of 2026
The global smartphone market is heading toward a difficult 2026 as rising component costs force manufacturers to increase device prices, new research has claimed.
New findings from FDM CCS Insight note the primary smartphone market is expected to decline by 14.8% in 2026 as memory shortages continue affecting production.
The decline follows a 4.4% year-on-year contraction in the primary smartphone market during 1Q26, despite manufacturers and retailers building inventory earlier.
As consumers search for cheaper alternatives to new devices, the demand for refurbished smartphones is expected to increase but so is the price.
FDM CCS Insight reports that some entry-level smartphones have already experienced price increases exceeding 50% compared with the previous year.
“Many consumers will hold onto their phone for longer, and these effects will be much more pronounced for consumers buying phones under $500,” said Ben Hatton, Research Analyst at FDM CCS Insight.
“Some consumers will need a new phone…and so we do expect more demand for refurbished smartphones as many are priced out of the new device market.”
The memory shortage driving these price increases is largely attributed to surging demand from AI data centers and AI-accelerated computing infrastructure.
These facilities compete for the same DRAM and NAND flash production capacity that smartphone manufacturers depend on, leaving less supply available for consumer devices.
Memory components now represent more than 30% of the bill of materials for some smartphones, increasing pressure on manufacturers.
The impact is expected to continue to affect low- and mid-range devices as companies adjust pricing strategies throughout the year.
The secondary smartphone market has already started benefiting from changing consumer behaviour, with organized sales increasing by 4% year-on-year during 1Q26.
FDM CCS Insight forecasts this market segment will expand by 15.4% globally during 2026 as demand shifts away from new devices.
However, stronger demand could also create higher refurbished smartphone prices as available supply struggles to match consumer interest.
Supply challenges could determine refurbished market growth
The refurbished market faces a major challenge because expanding supply depends heavily on trade-ins, buybacks, and upgrade programmes.
FDM CCS Insight expects premium smartphones, particularly devices priced above $750, to continue driving much of the available trade-in supply.
These devices are less affected by current pricing pressures, allowing manufacturers and retailers to maintain stronger upgrade incentives.
"The secondary market has an opportunity to serve some of the demand that will be unfulfilled by the primary market. The major challenge in the near term is to grow supply during a fallow period of flagship launches,” Hatton said.
“Countries with mature trade-in programmes will be in a much stronger position to capitalize on this opportunity and maintain higher growth rates in the secondary market over the rest of the year.”
The shift suggests that consumers may increasingly evaluate refurbished smartphones as alternatives when new device prices continue rising.
“Demand continues to heavily outweigh supply in the global secondary market. Trade-in discounts, early upgrade offers and more-lucrative trade-in promotions will be key to unlocking the market's full growth potential in 2026 and 2027," he added.
Whether this trend produces sustained growth will depend on supply availability, pricing stability, and how manufacturers respond to changing market conditions.
Two of the biggest brands in the video doorbell market are Blink and Ring. Incidentally, both are owned by Amazon, which means both have more than their fair share of deals this Amazon Prime Day. If you're not sure which brand is better, read on. In this guide I'll summarize the main differences between the two brands and run through your different options, so you can pick the right one for your needs.
The Ring video doorbell range is extensive, including multiple battery-powered and hardwired options. Generally speaking, this is the more premium brand — the prices are higher than Blink's, but the specs and features are also generally more advanced.
Blink, in comparison, has just three video doorbells — the Blink range is far more focused on home security cameras. There's one wired option, a budget battery option, and a slightly pricier battery option. At list price, all are cheaper than any of Ring's doorbells (although the current Prime Day deals might mix things up a bit).
Not sure about Blink or Ring? Head to our best video doorbell ranking for some alternatives from other brands.
Ring doorbell deals
Ring
Wired Doorbell
Ring
Wired Doorbell Plus
Ring
Wired Doorbell Pro
Ring
Wired Doorbell Elite
Ring
Battery Doorbell
Ring
Battery Doorbell Plus
Ring
Battery Doorbell Pro
Blink doorbell deals
Blink
Battery Doorbell 2K+ (add-on, Sync module not included)
Blink
Battery Doorbell (with Sync module)
Blink
Wired Doorbell 2K+
Blink vs Ring: features
For the best image quality, you need to shop in the Ring range. Its Pro doorbells both offer 4K video, which is about the most detailed picture you'll find on any video doorbell. The rest of Ring's doorbells, and two of the three Blink options, have 2K (1920 x 1920p) video. Finally, Blink has a budget option that has just 1440p resolution.
In terms of field of view, there's nothing really in it — pretty much every option in both ranges can 'see' 140 degrees vertically and 140 degrees horizontally. Surprisingly, the one exception is the basic, battery-powered Blink Video Doorbell, which offers 150 degrees.
For both there's a subscription option that adds extra features, but what's included as standard and what sits behind that subscription varies by model and also by country. However, you can expect to have to pay for a subscription if you want to save and store video clips for extended periods of time.
Because both brands are Amazon-owned, they'll both work nicely with Alexa and other compatible devices such as Amazon Echo show smart displays.
Blink vs Ring: value for money
At list price, all the Blink doorbells are all cheaper than the Ring ones — prices on the Blink range from $49.99 to $69.99, while the Ring range starts at $79.99. However, in either case, you'll want to make sure the features you want are not tied to a subscription, because that can shift the value-for-money proposition.
Generally speaking, the Blink doorbells are more basic than the Ring ones — check the spec comparison table below to see how the key features compare.
In the Amazon Prime Day sales, there are massive discounts across both ranges. Personally, I'd be tempted to use this opportunity to pick up a better quality doorbell that's been discounted into your budget.
It's been a long three years since I last found myself in the market for a new office or gaming chair. Since gambling on the Noblewell NWOC6 ergonomic office chair, I've had few to no issues with its comfort or functionality, especially with its mesh design aiding breathability during hot summer days.
That all came crashing down recently when attempting a normal recline, with the mechanism failing and nearly sending me and my desk into the abyss. Now, the chair no longer locks in recline at the initial or, in other words, 'standard' level.
It's hard to pinpoint whether the failure is a simple case of wear and tear due to long-term use, or if I had put way too much pressure on the tilt and recline mechanism — but it seems there's no going back now.
Essentially, all desktop activities, which include working, gaming, or watching movies, are so much more difficult, as there's practically no resistance from the NWOC6 to keep me locked in position.
That's exactly why these three options, some of which are in our rankings of the most comfortable gaming chairs, have been on my radar for days. With Prime Day here, I'm primed to buy.
1. Razer Iskur V2 X
(Image credit: Future)
The Razer Iskur V2 X is one of the most affordable and comfy gaming chairs any gamer (or casual desktop user) could opt for, with a fairly simple but comfortable design that seemingly prioritizes lumbar support with the additional memory foam lumbar cushion.
While this is a step away from my preferred mesh material design, which makes gaming and PC usage easier on hotter days, it's still worth a shot considering its push for comfort — and hopefully, this one doesn't try to end me.
The Razer Iskur V2 X is easily one of the best options for any gamer or desktop user looking for comfort in long sessions. With built-in lumbar support alongside a memory foam lumbar cushion, this is a chair with a simple design that gets the job done.View Deal
2. Secretlab Titan Evo 2022
(Image credit: Secretlab)
The Secretlab Titan Evo 2022 is my dream gaming chair upgrade. Again, it's not using a mesh design, but the SoftWeave Plus Fabric promises a breathable design that will help keep gamers cool in the summer.
It's ranked among our best office chairs, best gaming chairs, and the most comfortable chairs, and that's no surprise considering its fantastic top-of-the-line build quality and features, so it's one I'll be looking to buy.
The Secretlab Titan Evo 2022 gaming chair is right up among the top-of-the-line gaming chairs, with several high-quality features within its design that suit gamers and desktop users almost perfectly.
3. ThundrX3 Flex Pro
(Image credit: ThunderX3 / Aerocool)
Perhaps the strongest contender in the list is the ThunderX3 Flex Pro, an ergonomic office chair, also designed for gamers, but with a mesh design, making it a fantastic option for summer comfort.
It's a chair that is frustratingly not on sale just yet, but Prime Day can throw surprises with heavy discounts when least expected, so keeping tabs open for this one is the right move.
The Flex Pro features fully retractable armrests, 5D flip-up support (providing support for handheld gaming), and adjustable height and seat depth. It's effectively the ideal option for a user who may need to adjust almost every part of the chair to their liking, and I'm hoping it's one I can land this Prime Day.
With the ThunderX3 Flex Pro, customization is your best friend, as it features plenty of adjustable components. It has retractable armrests and an adjustable backrest height and seat depth, making it ideal for those looking to try several seating setups.View Deal
The American entrepreneur Palmer Luckey has played a major part in many major names in the tech industry, including founding Oculus VR, but has risen to prominence for his stewardship of Anduril Industries in 2017 – which puts artificial intelligence (AI) at the heart of its operations and capabilities.
The question of AI ethics
Luckey has long been a proponent of the use of AI in defense, with the Anduril founder even naming his company as such because it shares the acronym.
Quote of the day
This article is part of TechRadar Pro's QOTD project to provide an insight into the minds of the brightest and most recognized figures in the technology industry today and in years gone by. Read the full series here.
Speaking with Fox News Sunday in December 2025, he outlined a philosophy that it's much safer, in ways, to incorporate the best possible technologies into military capabilities than it is to ignore emerging innovation, whether AI or quantum, and be left with 'lesser' tech.
For Luckey, there's seemingly no point in taking the moral high ground when talking about matters of life and death – when the very nature of the business is morally called into question to begin with.
The future of military technology
Luckey's statement challenges the common orthodoxy that humans must always be in the loop over high-stakes decision-making, especially with matters of life and death. And, for that reason, it's highly controversial.
The direction of travel is not, however, up for debate, with plenty of examples of AI becoming increasingly prominent in international conflicts.
Without doubt, it won't have been the last such incident, and points to a future in which those engaged in conflict are likely to use every tool at their disposal to achieve their military aims, regardless of the moral implications.
After waiting 28 years to play at the FIFA World Cup 2026, you'd want to make up for lost time – and Norway certainly did that in their Group I opener. Next up, Erling Haaland & Co. face a stern test in the form of a Senegal side that boast arguably Africa's most talented squad. The Lions of Teranga need a point to stand any realistic chance of reaching the knockouts.
Stale Solbakken's side thrashed Iraq 4-1 to kick-off their campaign in style, with the inevitable Haaland scoring twice on his tournament debut. The talismanic striker has now found the net an astonishing 57 times in just 51 games for his country and Norway could go far if he continues his prolific form. Their status as dark horses will be truly tested for the first time against Senegal, though their healthy goal difference affords a slight cushion if things go wrong.
Senegal were arguably the better side in the first half of their opening game, against France, and reached the interval goalless, before the class of Kylian Mbappe & Co. told as they fell to a 3-1 defeat. Manager Pape Thiaw should not be too down after that result, though, as his side showed plenty of good signs and scored an excellent late goal through substitute Ibrahim Mbaye. Ismaila Sarr and skipper Sadio Mane provide zip out wide as they seek to avoid a defeat that could leave them at risk of an early exit.
So, read on as we show you exactly how to watch Norway vs Senegal for free from anywhere in the FIFA World Cup 2026.
How to watch Norway vs Senegal for free
Norway vs Senegal is available to watch for free in multiple countries, including the UK, Australia, Brazil, Belgium, Ireland, Netherlands, Switzerland and Turkey.
Abroad? Can't access your free stream? Unblock your free World Cup stream with Norton VPN — more on that below.
Use a VPN to watch Norway vs Senegal live streams
It’s the World Cup, and if you’re traveling, you might discover your usual Norway vs Senegal stream is suddenly unavailable due to geo-restrictions.
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Defenders: Kristoffer Ajer (Brentford), Julian Ryerson (Borussia Dortmund), Leo Ostigard (Genoa), Marcus Holmgren Pedersen (Torino), David Moller Wolfe (Wolverhampton Wanderers), Fredrik Andre Bjorkan (Bodo/Glimt), Torbjorn Heggem (Bologna), Sondre Langas (Derby County), Henrik Falchener (Viking).
Midfielders: Martin Odegaard (Arsenal), Sander Berge (Fulham), Patrick Berg (Bodo/Glimt), Kristian Thorstvedt (Sassuolo), Morten Thorsby (Cremonese), Antonio Nusa (RB Leipzig), Fredrik Aursnes (Benfica), Oscar Bobb (Fulham), Jens Petter Hauge (Bodo/Glimt), Andreas Schjelderup (Benfica), Thelo Aasgaard (Rangers).
Defenders: Krepin Diatta (Monaco), Antoine Mendy (Nice), Abdoulaye Seck (Maccabi Haifa), Kalidou Koulibaly (Al-Hilal), Moussa Niakhate (Lyon), Mamadou Sarr (Chelsea), El-Hadji Malick Diouf (West Ham United), Ismail Jakobs (Galatasaray).
Midfielders: Idrissa Gueye (Everton), Habib Diarra (Sunderland), Pape Matar Sarr (Tottenham), Pape Gueye (Villarreal), Lamine Camara (Monaco), Pathe Ciss (Rayo Vallecano), Bara Ndiaye (Bayern Munich).
Forwards: Sadio Mane (Al-Nassr), Bamba Dieng (Lorient), Iliman Ndiaye (Everton), Nicolas Jackson (Chelsea), Assane Diao (Como), Ibrahim Mbaye (Paris St-Germain), Cherif Ndiaye (Samsunspor), Ismaila Sarr (Crystal Palace).
Group I Table
Position
Team
GD
Points
1
Norway
3
3
2
France
2
3
3
Senegal
-2
0
4
Iraq
-3
0
Can I watch Norway vs Senegal on my mobile?
Of course, most broadcasters have streaming services that you can access through mobile apps or via your phone's browser.
You can also stay up-to-date with all of the key World Cup moments on the official social media channels on X/Twitter (@FIFAWorldCup), Instagram (@FIFAWorldCup), TikTok (@FIFAWorldCup) and YouTube (@FIFA).
We test and review VPN services in the context of legal recreational uses. For example:1. Accessing a service from another country (subject to the terms and conditions of that service).2. Protecting your online security and strengthening your online privacy when abroad.We do not support or condone the illegal or malicious use of VPN services. Consuming pirated content that is paid-for is neither endorsed nor approved by Future Publishing.
It's a tale as old as tech time: a new flagship device appears on the scene, which means the device it's replacing gets a price drop, and potentially offers better value for money for the discerning gadget buyer.
For this guide, we're going to be looking specifically at the Oura Ring 4 (which launched in 2024) and the Oura Ring 5 (launched in 2026). The Oura Ring 4 is likely to see some great Amazon Prime Day deals, but should you go all in on the latest and most expensive model? Or is the older model the better investment when bought at a discount?
There's no doubt that both models qualify as two of the best smart rings on the market right now, but which one is right for you depends on your budget and what your priorities are. Here's how they compare.
Oura Ring 5 vs Oura Ring 4: pricing
The (Image credit: Oura)
While pricing varies as special offers come and go, the Oura Ring 5 launched for a starting price of $399 / £399 / AU$649, with some finishes costing extra at $499 / £499 / AU$799 – that's a little more expensive than the original Oura Ring 4 (note that the prices for Australia are for third-party resellers, not from Oura directly).
There's an upgraded charging case available for $99 / £99 / AU$159 for the Oura Ring 5, and then there's the monthly subscription: $5.99 / £5.99 / AU$9.99 a month or $69.99 / £69.99 / AU$109.99 a year. While a subscription isn't technically necessary to use an Oura Ring, you do need one to access the bulk of its features.
So what about Oura Ring 4 price drops? At the time of writing, the starting price is $349 / £349 if you go through the official channels, and we're seeing some good deals on the Oura Ring 4 already, which you can find below. Given that it's an older model, you're much more likely to see discounts on this smart ring on both the Oura shop and third-party retailers like Amazon.
Oura Ring 5 vs Oura Ring 4: specs and features
The Oura Ring 4 launched in 2024 (Image credit: Oura)
What you need to know first is that the Oura Ring 5 is notably slimmer than the Oura Ring 4: for the most affordable finishes, it's 6.09 mm (0.24 inches) wide and 2.28 mm (0.09 inches) thick, down from 7.9 mm (0.31 inches) and 2.8 mm (0.11 inches), which is a reduction of about 40%.
That can make a difference when it comes to comfort and day-to-day wear. The new model is lighter too, with those reduced dimensions, weighing 2 grams rather than 3.3 grams. Both models are available in a variety of ring sizes to fit your finger, though the Oura Ring 5 introduces a new sizing scheme that doesn't match its predecessor.
The new, slimmer Oura Ring 5 (Image credit: Oura)
The Oura Ring 5 is also more scratch resistant, while both models offer the same level of waterproofing (down to a depth of 100 meters). Battery life has been improved on the new model too, with the official estimates standing at 5-8 days for the Oura Ring 4, and 6-9 days for the Oura Ring 5.
As for sensors and health tracking features, this is where the rings are mostly tied. Oura says the fifth-generation model is more accurate because of a change in the sensor layout, but the core sensor tech is the same between the two models, and the software experience through the app is the same for tracking steps, activity, heart rate, and more.
Oura Ring 5 vs Oura Ring 4: Verdict
The Oura Ring 4 is still an excellent smart ring (Image credit: Oura)
There's clearly a lot that's new and improved in the Oura Ring 5: it's slimmer and lighter, and offers better battery life. Oura says it's also more accurate, though that's not something we've finished testing ourselves just yet. That said, the tracking capabilities, sensors, and app features are more or less identical between the models.
Where the Oura Ring 4 really has the potential to outdo the newer model is in terms of pricing. As time goes on, you're likely to see bigger and bigger discounts on the fourth-generation model — and don't forget that we awarded it our Health & Fitness Device of the Year award for 2025. It's a seriously impressive bit of kit, and if the right discount comes along during Amazon Prime Day, it'll certainly be a better-value package than the Ring 5.
Regardless, you'll need to weigh up what's most important to you for your next smart ring, and how much you're prepared to spend to get it. Both of these premium smart rings from Oura will give you years of use — so we might be talking about the Oura Ring 6 before you need to think about upgrading again.
If you're looking for the most powerful mini PC you can get under $500, I've found it - after a lot of searching ahead of Prime Day, it turns out the real deal is over at Newegg, where the Brenuc Bren7P mini PC is down to $499 (was $599) right now.
This compact desktop is powered by the AMD Ryzen 7 7840HS — a high-performance 8-core, 16-thread Zen 4 chip with a 5.1GHz boost clock that sits comfortably at the top of the mini PC performance tier. Paired with DDR5 memory, a PCIe 4.0 SSD, and dual 2.5G Ethernet, this is a machine that genuinely earns the “powerful” label without needing a large chassis to do it.
The AMD Radeon 780M is the upgrade that really caught my eye. For video editors using hardware acceleration in DaVinci Resolve or Premiere, photographers using GPU-accelerated processing in Lightroom, or developers running GPU-compute workloads, the difference is immediately tangible. It also handles a broader range of gaming titles than Intel’s integrated graphics at playable frame rates.
Today's top mini PC deal
For the price, this is the most powerful mini PC - or PC of any size - you can get for less than $500. And that's because it's packing the high-performance Ryzen 7 7840HS, 16GB DDR5, 512GB PCIe 4.0 SSD, and AMD’s Radeon 780M GPU. That makes a real difference for anything visually demanding, from photo and video editing to light gaming. You can even upgrade to 64GB RAM and dual M.2 NVMe storage.View Deal
The AMD Ryzen 7 7840HS is the real engine here. It’s a Zen 4 processor built on TSMC’s 4nm process — the same generation as the chips AMD put in its premium gaming handhelds — and it consistently benchmarks among the strongest mobile CPUs in the 15W–54W power envelope. Eight performance cores with simultaneous multithreading and a 5.1 GHz boost clock mean this chip handles sustained multi-threaded workloads like video transcoding, compiling, data processing, and running virtual machines without throttling, as lower-TDP mobile chips often do in compact chassis.
The dual 2.5G Ethernet ports are a standout feature in this category. Most mini PCs at this price ship with a single 1G port; dual 2.5G gives you 2.5 times the bandwidth per port and the ability to connect to two separate networks simultaneously. For home office users who keep work and personal networks separate, IT professionals who need multiple network interfaces, or anyone running a network-attached storage server or a home lab, this is a genuinely practical inclusion you’d typically pay more for.
USB 4.0 at 40 Gbps on the rear I/O is another connectivity highlight. At full bandwidth, it’s four times faster than USB 3.2 Gen 2, and it supports DisplayPort Alt Mode, Power Delivery, and Thunderbolt 3-compatible devices. In practice, you can connect an external SSD and transfer a 4K video library in a fraction of the time it would take over USB 3.2, or connect a high-res display and still have bandwidth left over for data.
The triple 4K display capability (HDMI 2.0, DP 1.4, USB-C) mirrors what the KAMRUI H2 offers, and the dual M.2 NVMe PCIe Gen 4 slots support up to 64GB of DDR5 RAM and as much storage as you want. The tool-free interior access — four base screws and a pull tab — makes upgrades straightforward without needing specialist equipment.
Right now, the Brenuc Bren7P is the most well-rounded mini PC you can currently find under $500 — and the Radeon 780M is what tips it over the line. Check out more options in our guide to the best mini PCs.
It hasn't been discounted that low since last year, making this the first opportunity anyone who's had the best instant camera on their wish list to bag a bargain. That's great timing if you ask me, because the Instax Mini 12 is a great camera for the summer. In the UK, there's another record-low deal on the same Instax Mini 12 camera for £69.99 (was £79.99).
From capturing holiday moments to being passed around at weddings, this is the perfect time of year to own an instant camera. The Instax Mini 12 produces great-looking prints, and is extremely easy to use — what's more to like?
Today's best Instax Mini 12 deals
Instax Mini 12: was $93.95 now $79.95 at Amazon Snag a record-low price for the best instant camera around at Amazon. It's comfortable to hold and capable of producing attractive prints at a reasonable price. This is a limited-time deal, though, so I wouldn't wait for stocks to run out, as I expect this will be a popular deal throughout Prime Day. View Deal
Instax Mini 12:was £79.99 now £69.99 at Amazon Don't miss grabbing a record-low price for what we rated as the best instant camera around. It was almost a year ago that prices hit this low, making this the perfect time to snap up the Instax Mini 12. With Prime Day running through to June 26, I'm not sure stocks will last for this, so be quick. View Deal
Well, the Steam Machine's price has been announced, and at $1,049 for the base 512GB model, it's safe to say that any hopes people had that Valve would pull another Steam Deck and heavily subsidise the Steam Machine to make it more affordable have been dashed.
While the price of the Steam Machine isn't outrageous considering the PC gaming market, especially at the moment with component prices being so high, it's certainly not cheap, and the specs make me worried that it's both over priced and under powered.
If you're in the same boat, the good news is that it's pretty easy (dare I say, even fun) to build your own compact gaming PC that offers far more performance for your money. And, with Amazon Prime Day pretty much in full swing, despite it officially starting on Tuesday, it could even be quite a bit cheaper than the Steam Machine, which won't be getting any price cuts, since it's only been officially launched.
I've been building my own PCs for decades now, including small console-like gaming PCs, and it's always fun and rewarding. Small form factor PCs offer a particular challenge, as you need to find components that fit inside a small chassis, ensure there's plenty of airflow even in small spaces, and installing the components can be tricky due to the cramped insides.
But, as I said it's a lot of fun. I've picked out some components below that you can put together to make your own Steam Machine. You don't need to buy an operating system, either, as you can download and install SteamOS for free.
The components I've picked below are all compatible with each other, and total $1,295.23. Now, that's more expensive than the base model of the Steam Machine, but you get twice the storage space (1TB) and faster RAM. You're also getting a discrete GPU, the Asus Dual Nvidia Geforce RTX 5060 8GB GDDR7 White OC Edition, which will outperform the integrated AMD RDNA 3 Navi GPU in the Steam Machine.
If you want to keep the price down, you could skip the graphics card, and rely on the integrated graphics of the AMD Ryzen 5 9600X chip. This reduces the overall cost to $940.84, well below the cost of the Steam Machine, though gaming performance will take a big hit.
I recommend buying a dedicated GPU for best performance, but the beauty of building your own PC is that you can always buy that later, though with Prime Day sales currently running, now might be the best time to buy all the components now.
I love my Asus ROG Xbox Ally X, especially when using it with some smart glasses like my RayNeo Air 4 Pros. However, I know that the setup I have could be better.
So this Amazon Prime Day, I’m looking to enhance my PC handheld gaming experience with a bunch of accessories, including a dock, a super-fast portable charger, and a case to keep it safe. These are the pieces I’m looking to buy, and I can’t wait to see how they upgrade my ROG Xbox Ally X's gaming experience.
This week isn't all about Amazon Prime Day. As in years past, Walmart has launched a rival sale a full day before Prime Day. That means you can shop bargains right now that beat Prime Day prices, from brands like Apple, Ninja, Samsung, Dyson, and more.
As TechRadar's deals editor, I've handpicked the 24 best offers from Walmart's rival sale, aptly named 'Walmart Deals'. The retailer launched its week-long sale today, with exclusive offers for Walmart Plus members and deals available to everyone. You can find record-low prices on everything from TVs, AirPods, and laptops to robot vacuums, air fryers, summer essentials, and more.
If you aren't already a Walmart Plus member and see an exclusive discount that you want to buy today, I have some good news. The retailer is currently offering an incredible50% discount on its annual Walmart Plus membership, bringing the price down from $99 to $49 - an outstanding value for unlimited grocery deliveries and free shipping.
I've got a special love for the Garmin Epix Pro (Gen 2), as I've said elsewhere on this site. It's the watch I used to train for and eventually run the London Marathon, and I'd recommend it to every hobbyist runner out there. It's now cheaper than it's ever been, and considering the amount of features it's got, I'd recommend buying it even though it's not Amazon Prime Day yet.
This offshoot of Garmin's ultra-powerful Fenix line is now less than the price of a Garmin Forerunner 170 Music, an Apple Watch Series 11, or a Google Pixel Watch 4. Check out the deal in full below.
Today's best Garmin Epix Pro (Gen 2) deal in the UK
Don't let its age fool you: its up-to-date parts sport accurate metrics. Even though it will now receive only security updates and bug fixes rather than new features, its hardware is rock-solid. It packs Garmin's most powerful heart rate sensor, the Elevate V5, which is also used on the current-gen Fenix 8.
It's great for skiing and golfing, with thousands of preloaded route maps. I actually used its mapping software during marathon training, as I created a street map of my London route in the Garmin Connect app, loaded it onto my watch, and it guided me turn by turn around a 20-mile route. If I went off-course, it rerouted me.
All this with fantastic battery life, health tracking, and a rugged, adventure-proof exterior. It's even got Garmin's LED torch in its casing.
It's definitely the best-value Garmin right now: I'd get it now rather than wait for it to sell out. However, you might not be looking for a large, rugged watch: you might be after something slimmer, like a Fitbit or an Apple Watch. In which case, I have another deal I can recommend: the Garmin Vivoactive 5 is now £149.99 (was £209.99) at Amazon, the lowest price ever.
A lowest-ever price on the Garmin Vivoactive 5 means there's never been a better time to snap this up. Garmin's comprehensive and (still mostly free) app has served me well for years, while the Vivoactive 5 at this price is an easly swallow for Fitbit users used to cheaper devices. View Deal
Amazon Prime Day is imminent, but Argos has beaten Amazon to the punch with its catchily named 'Seize the sale' event, which includes offers on home tech, toys, garden essentials for the summer weather, and more. You can view the full Argos sale here.
We're not really focusing on the 'Hot' part of this right now, but it makes it a useful device for all seasons. This Dyson fan can blast you with air to help beat the heatwave, or create heat waves of its own when winter rolls back around. I have a Dyson Hot + Cool in my bedroom, and it's really useful to have one device that does it all well.View Deal
Save an extra 40% with code: ELEC40 This has an initial discount bringing it from £95 to £69, then you can apply a 40% code at the checkout to unlock the bigger discount. It's a slick, narrow pod coffee machine that's great for smaller kitchens.View Deal
Save an extra 10% with code: ELEC10 TechRadar Homes Editor Cat Ellis is absolutely obsessed with the Baristina, giving it five stars in our full Philips Baristina review. Part of that was because of its bargain price, and now you can get it even cheaper.View Deal
Save an extra 10% with code: ELEC10 This is down to £129 anyway, and then you get the extra 10% off using the above code at the checkout. This is one of our favourite air fryers, and while it's fallen to £99 in the past, it's a really good price for something so versatile, with dual drawers for cooking at different temperatures.View Deal
Save 30% with code: ELEC30 A no-nonsense vacuum available for this low price by using the above code at checkout. It's got different speeds for carpet and hard floors, a battery so you can grab and go, and a good size of dust bin.View Deal
Save 50% with code: ELEC50 This cordless vac looks like a real bargain if you use this code at checkout — it's got a 'FlexiClean' handle so it can bend for easy cleaning under furniture, anti-hair-wrap rollers (a godsend), and up to 45 mins of battery power.View Deal
Save 50% with code: ELEC50 Grab this adaptive shaver for half price, by using the code above at the checkout stage. It comes with travel accessories, and charges over USB for extra convenience.View Deal
Free delivery, and save 10% with code: TCLTV10 This is arguably the best bang-for-buck TV available today, delivering high-quality images for a great price. This is a solid discount, especially with free delivery — though be warned that Argos can be selective about where it offers to deliver to. Here's our full TCL C7K review. See also: TCL C7K 65-inch for £799 £719View Deal
Free delivery, and save 10% with code: LGC10 The five-star 55-inch LG C5 has dropped to a record-low of £989 at Argos, using the code above. Read our full LG C5 review for why we like it so much, but the short version is that does everything excellently. Argos is also offering free delivery on all TVs, so you're saving extra money here compared to many stores. However, if it's not available locally it can't be delivered, so check to see if you can actually make that saving.View Deal
Free delivery, and save 10% with code: LGC10 A magnificent OLED TV for the price, delivering 'perfect' cinematic contrast and nearly all the features of the LG C5 for cheaper. It's less bright and colour-rich than the C5, which does make the C5 better for brighter living rooms, but this is still an amazing TV for this price — here's our LG B5 review.View Deal
Free delivery, and save 10% with code: TCLTV10 TCL's most affordable mini-LED TV is the best big-screen bargain around right now — you can get a giant set with image quality that actually holds up, and great features. Here's our full TCL C6K review — it's our pick as being the best budget TV right now. See also: TCL C6K 75-inch for £899 £809.10View Deal
There's a whole range of Lego sets for different interests, many with discounts at Argos, ranging from Harry Potter to One Piece to Batman to Minecraft to Bluey to Disney. Take a look at the full list here to see what's up your alley.View Deal
Amazon Prime Day is almost here, and while I'm busy browsing Amazon's plethora of deals on smart speakers, smart displays, and e-readers, I'm also keeping one eye on the range of accessories it has on offer.
Aside from Black Friday, Prime Day is one of the best events to find price drops on Amazon's range of smart speakers, so why not go the extra mile and elevate your new speaker with a stand? Because simply placing it on a bare countertop can sometimes look a little dull.
Have you managed to score yourself a new Kindle? Amazon's selection of deals on e-reader accessories is just as worthwhile as its smart speaker stands, especially its sleek wireless charging docks, which also double as reading stands. There's also a killer deal on an adjustable Echo Show stand, now at $9.99 down from $49.99— which is by far the best deal of the bunch.
Today's best Echo accessory deals in the US
The newer Echo Dot Max will be one of the most sought-after devices in this year's Prime Day sale, but purchasing a new display stand will help take your new speaker to the next level. It also means you won't need a power lead for your smart speaker, as this stand comes with a built-in plug. View Deal
Got yourself a new Echo Show and want to display it proudly? This adjustable stand is a handy gadget for elevating your smart display to a higher, more visible level, and it features a 40° tilt and 360° swivel to easily view content and follow recipes. View Deal
Wall outlets like this are perfect if you want your Echo speaker out of sight, rather than opting for a countertop stand. With outlet stands like this, you can also rotate the mount to point the speaker in your preferred direction for the best audio output. View Deal
Amazon has been spoiling us with its early deals on Kindles, and if you've been lucky enough to score one while they were available, why not go the whole hog and equip yourself with a new stylus? Smart pens across the board are expensive (especially Apple), so Prime Day is the ideal time to make the most of the discounts. View Deal
This Echo Dot stand is a great companion to the smart speaker you've just purchased for your kid, or for you if you're an adult who's a child at heart or a Spider-Man obsessive. At TechRadar, we won't judge either way. View Deal
Amazon has tons of offers on its popular e-readers, and the same goes for its charging docks. The best part about these accessories is that they can double as a reading stand, letting you read your favorite books hands-free while giving them some extra juice. View Deal
An 80% saving is very generous, especially when Prime Day hasn't even started yet. When it comes to wireless charging accessories, they can set you back quite a bit, so this record-low price is a no-brainer - and its smart design will complement your new Fire tablet nicely. View Deal
Instant film, man — you just can’t beat it, and for me, Polaroid is top of the pile. Since the brand’s rejuvenation in 2017, I’ve been a huge admirer of the range of cameras it has come out with, catering to all different stripes of users. I’ve reviewed, owned and used several of them — but there’s one in particular that has caught my eye this Prime Day, and that's coming with me on my World Cup watch parties.
I just finished up my Polaroid Go Gen 3 review, and I came away really impressed. This palm-sized instant camera packs in everything that I’ve loved about the diminutive Go series in a smaller-than-ever body, with a better lens and more powerful flash.
But my Prime Day recommendation is going to be the previous model, the Polaroid Go Gen 2. Why? Well, because while the Gen 3 is an improvement on the Gen 2, it’s not a radical upgrade, and the discounts on the Gen 2 are looking very tempting.
In the US, there's over $30 off for the Go 2 (black) with a pack of film, now just $78.99 at Amazon, while in the UK there's £20 off for the white version of the Go 2, again with a pack of film for just £74.99 at Amazon. There are currently no such discounts for the Go 3.
There's a catch to the Go 2 deal — it's for the black version of the camera. But, these are the best discounts I've seen, what now that the Gen 3 has arrived. For this price, you also get a double-pack of Go color film, giving you everything you need to get started.View Deal
Today's best Polaroid Go Gen 2 deal (UK)
The deal I'm seeing in the UK is for the white version of the camera, with a double-pack of Go color film included. That's all you need to get started.View Deal
(Image credit: James Abbott)
Considering that the Go Gen 2 and Gen 3 use the exact same film, and so are both capable of producing images with that gorgeous Polaroid lo-fi look, that’s a tough bargain to argue with. I wouldn’t expect to see similar discounts on the Gen 3 any time soon, considering it has only just been released.
I think for most instant photography newbies, something from the Go series is going to be the best choice. These cameras produce much smaller prints than the larger models, taking dedicated ‘Go’ film rather than full-size I-Type. It makes the film much cheaper, meaning you can be more relaxed about your shots, and the tiny dimensions give it a similar ‘cuteness’ factor to the mega-popular Fujifilm Instax film.
And I know that sales figures don’t agree with me here, but having tried both brands extensively, I think Polaroid film and cameras are much better than Instax! The tonality is better, and the lo-fi look has much more retro charm.
Sure, the Gen 3 is a little smaller, and its selfie game has definitely been raised. But the Go Gen 2 still has that Polaroid charm. It’s still got the selfie mirror, the simple point-and-shoot operation, and even the double-exposure mode.
Thanks to that cheaper Go film, it’s a much more sensible choice for fun events like World Cup watch parties — if a few frames come out badly, it’s not the end of the world. And I speak from experience when I say that instant cameras always go down well at gatherings. Making tangible instant prints is just so much more interesting and fun than capturing yet more wide-angle selfies to disappear forever down your phone’s camera roll.
So, if you’re looking for an instant-film hit to document your adventures or summer parties, the Polaroid Go Gen 2 is my recommendation to jump on over the next few days. But I’d pounce sooner rather than later, as those discounts won’t hang around forever.
If you're signed up to Amazon Prime, you'll no doubt have unlocked one of its best free perks — Prime Video. But did you know that membership also currently gives you access to limited-time deals as low as $0.99 a month on 36 streaming subscription add-ons?
The discounts are part of this week's Amazon Prime Day sale, which has seen the price of several subscriptions and bundles slashed to record lows both in the US and UK. With so many different options to choose from, I've picked out three of the best savings I can find in the sale to help make sure you don't miss out.
These offers mostly end on Friday, June 26 (check the details below), which means you don't have long to pick from the discounts available. If you need help deciding, then I'd recommend Apple TV and Paramount+ no matter where you live. Not only are they among the most discounted, but their catalogs are stacked with great content.
I've also picked out two other Prime Video streaming add-ons from the sale: BritBox for those in the US and MGM+ for UK shoppers, as both are the cheapest I can find them at the time of writing. Once you've locked in one of the deals below, I'd love to know which you picked — leave a comment below.
Today's best 3 Prime Video streaming deals in the US
Apple TV (Prime Video add-on):was $25.98 for two months now $11.98 at Amazon Apple TV doesn't often run promotional offers, making this limited-time deal to get more than 50% of the usual monthly price of $12.99 one of the cheapest ways to sign up to the service right now. You'll be able to lock in a new low price of $5.99 a month for two months with this offer, but be quick because it ends on 26 June. View Deal
Paramount+ (Prime Video add-on): was$27.98 for two months now $1.98 at Amazon Get $26 off the ad-free Paramount+ 'Premium' plan until June 25 by picking up this limited-time deal. The more than 90% off discount also applies to the 'Essential' tier, but because that includes ads, you're better off just picking the more feature-packed option. Just note, this promotion ends on June 26, and you have to be a Prime Video subscriber to access it. View Deal
BritBox (Prime Video add-on): was $21.98 for two months now $1.98 at Amazon While BritBox is known to offer deals quite regularly, it's not common to see the service as cheap as $0.99 a month. Through Prime Video, you'll be able to get this rare low price for two months as a subscription add-on, helping you save more than $20 over the usual full price. Don't hold off getting this savings; it ends on June 26. View Deal
Today's best 3 Prime Video streaming deals in the UK
Apple TV (Prime Video add-on):was £19.98 for two months now £11.98 at Amazon If you're not forking out for a new iPhone, iPad, Mac, or Apple TV device anytime soon, your best way to get a cheap Apple TV subscription is through this Prime Video add-on at the time of writing. It allows you to save more than 50% on the usual monthly price of £9.99, but you'll have to be quick because the deal ends on July 2. View Deal
Paramount+ (Prime Video add-on): was£7.99 for a month now £2.99 at Amazon While this saving isn't as good as it in the US, this Paramount+ deal is still worth considering for those of us in the UK, especially if you've not been signed up for a while, and want to catch up on the biggest movies and series you've missed. Just note that the reduced price only lasts for a month. View Deal
MGM+ (Prime Video add-on): was £11.98 for two months now £5.98 at Amazon Like BritBox, MGM+ constantly offers deals, making it one of the more readily available streaming services to choose from when it comes to sales. While this offer isn't a rock bottom price, that doesn't mean it's not worth picking up. A saving is a saving after all. View Deal
The RayNeo Air 4 Pro smart glasses are easily the best budget smart specs you can buy if you’re after the ultimate portable entertainment gadget.
High-tech specs are all the rage, but there are different types in this broad category. You have the Ray-Ban Meta glasses, which offer audio-only AI assistance, the Snap Specs, which deliver AI and full-on AR, and then something like the RayNeo glasses, which act like your own private movie theatre.
You connect them to a compatible USB-C device, and your screen will be projected in front of you on a virtual 200-inch screen that only you can see.
This setup is perfect in so many scenarios. When I’m taking a flight I can watch Netflix on a giant display that’s better than any in-flight entertainment screen, I can lay back in bed with my Asus Rog Xbox Ally X display virtually projected onto my ceiling, and when I’m working on a story about an unannounced gadget I can rely on the specs to keep that info private with a display no one else can read.
If you don’t yet own a pair of smart glasses like this, you absolutely should. They’re a must-buy ahead of this year’s Summer travel season, and thanks to Amazon Prime Day there’s never been a better time to grab a pair.
Today's best RayNeo Air 4 Pro deals
Did I mention that the specs are only $295? For Prime Day, the standard edition specs are $239.20, saving you 20% at Amazon. That’s the best price these smart glasses have ever been, and the best bang for your buck a pair of smart specs has ever been. Meanwhile, in the UK, the RayNeo Air 4 Pro glasses will set you back just £248.99 at Amazon, a 34% drop from their usual £379 — again thanks to some Prime Day magic.
I never travel without my phone, passport or a pair of smart glasses like these because they're so excellent at keeping me entertained on long flights (provided my phone doesn't run out of battery first).View Deal
The RayNeo Air 4 Pro glasses were already incredible value for money, but they just got even better with a discount for Prime Day that knocks over a third off.View Deal
When tech prices have been on a sharp increase, it’s a breath of fresh air to see something as genuinely excellent as the RayNeo Air 4 Pros not only launch at a budget-friendly price, but then fall during Prime Day sales.
While the RayNeo Air 4 Pro glasses aren’t as unique as this category once was — I mean, we’re four generations in on just this product alone, plus all of its rivals from other brands — the tech stands alone because it’s so budget-friendly and yet incredibly capable.
The micro-OLED displays boast HDR10 support — and they were the first smart glasses of this type to do so. This means they boast an incredible range of color hues, with professional accuracy that will make your HDR10-supported content pop. Plus, as you expect from OLED screens, the contrast is solid, especially if you use a lens cover to block out external light.
As for audio, while headphones are a solid option if you want to keep what you’re listening to more private, RayNeo’s specs boast spatial audio tuned by experts Bang & Olufsen. They sound great, and a major step up from the earliest generations of smart specs, which were effectively unusable sonically unless you had a pair of Bluetooth cans.
As our monitor expert would tell you, it is always worth spending a little extra to get a monitor that will reduce the risk of eye strain and neck pain, especially if you spend all day in front of your monitor. But now that the Prime Day sales have started, there are some great ergonomic and minimalist monitor deals.
The Samsung S30GD range has a 100Hz refresh rate to keep visuals crisp without chopping up frames and a 5ms response speed is more than reasonable for both office work and gaming. For a business monitor at this price, you can't really go wrong. Across many of our reviews of Samsung monitors, we have always found a good balance between cost and performance, with many of the S30GD's sister monitors frequently getting above 4 out of 5 in our testing.
The Samsung 22in S30GD Essential monitor is the smallest (and cheapest) in the range. For smaller desks this screen size is ideal, especially as no space is wasted on any flashy design enhancements. Includes 100Hz refresh rate, IPS color balance, HDMI connector, and multiple screen settings for low-blue light, contrast, and color.View Deal
The Samsung 24in S30GD Essential monitor balances performance and ergonomics in a minimalist construction. Features include 100Hz refresh rate, IPS color balance, HDMI connector, and multiple screen settings for low-blue light, contrast, and color.View Deal
The Samsung 27in S30GD Essential monitor is the largest within the range, making it a good choice for creatives or professionals who need consistent color on a larger screen. Features 100Hz refresh rate, IPS color balance, HDMI connector, and multiple screen settings for low-blue light, contrast, and color.View Deal
Samsung's S30GD Essential range of monitors strike a balance between performance, ergonomics, and price that keeps you both physically and fiscally comfortable.
The Samsung S30GD can comfortably handle 1920x1080 resolutions across 22in, 24in and 27in, making it a cost-effective choice as a primary monitor for professionals and creatives, or as a dedicated space-conscious second monitor alongside a larger display.
I particularly like the minimalist vibe, as the monitor doesn't distract the eye unnecessarily or pull focus from intensive tasks. Samsung's In Place Switching (IPS) keeps visuals and colors sharp and accurate during editing or design tasks, even when viewing from multiple angles.
For those with smaller desks or limited workspace, the Samsung 22in S30GD is the perfect choice and can be easily moved as it weighs less than 5 pounds. The 24in version is great as a primary monitor, with the monitor stand measuring just under 7in to avoid any unnecessary desk space wastage. For those in need of a larger primary screen for editing work or larger spreadsheets, I would recommend the 27in version.
Each display across Samsung's S30GD range feature ultra-thin bezels at the screen border so that no space is unnecessarily wasted between the screen and its edge.
If you're looking for a sleek, minimalist monitor for less than $70, $80, or $95, the Samsung S30GD is an excellent addition for anyone looking for a monitor that covers the basics, and then some.
Even though Prime Day 2026 doesn’t kick off until tomorrow, the discount I’ve been waiting for is already here. Apple’s AirTag 2 has dropped to its lowest price ever at just $24 for a single — $5 off — and $89 for a four-pack — $10 off at Amazon.
That’s a pretty great deal and just one of the steep pre-Prime Day discounts we’ve seen Amazon roll out. It's also the perfect time to upgrade if you have a first-generation AirTag or to add Apple’s item tracker to your gadget ecosystem.
You also get everything you need in the box, whether you buy a single AirTag or a four-pack. Apple includes the required CR2032 battery inside each AirTag — you’ll just pull the tab, hold it next to your iPhone as you hear it beep, and follow the on-screen instructions to set it up.
Today's best Apple AirTag 2 deal
Apple's second-generation AirTag with louder sound, a 50% improvmenet in range for Precision Finding, and the rest of the features that made the first-gen such a great item tracker are at the lowest price ever ahead of Prime Day 2026. Right now, Amazon has a single AirTag for just $24 – a savings of $5. View Deal
Amazon's also discounting a pack of four second-generation AirTags to the lowest price ever. Right now, the four Apple AirTags are down to just $89, a savings of $10, and it brings the cost of each one down to around $22.View Deal
Apple’s AirTag is one of those essential accessories that I simply won’t travel without. The first-generation model not only saved me when United lost my luggage, but it also provides peace of mind when a trip goes as planned. I can check to make sure my checked bag actually made it onto the plane using the Find My app, keep track of my keys, and even locate a misplaced item like a backpack.
The second-generation AirTag doesn’t change much, but it does bring two key upgrades. The first is a new custom-made sound that Apple developed, which is louder than before. That means if you misplace whatever the AirTag is attached to — maybe your keys in the couch cushions or behind an entry table — you’ll be able to hear the tracker’s sound more clearly.
Second, Apple extended the Precision Finding range by up to 50%, which gamifies the process of finding your lost item. As with an iPhone or newer Apple Watch, it guides you to the AirTag with distance measurements and an on-screen arrow. It’s all pretty handy.
Best of all, with a Prime membership, you can get a single AirTag or a four-pack at the lowest price ever and score free, fast shipping. Depending on where you live, it could arrive within a few hours or even by tomorrow.
Amazon Prime Day may be tomorrow, but this is an excellent early TV deal on one of the best TVs you can get on the market. It covers all the bases, be it movies, sports or gaming, and sits at the top of many of our guides. I also have a sneaking suspicion that it might be the last time it's available, as I've seen stock disappearing from different retailers.
Today's best LG C5 deal
If you want the ultimate all-around TV, the LG C5 is the best way to go. Delivering excellent picture quality, superb gaming performance and a great smart TV system, it ticks every box. This deal knocks the 55-inch down to a record-low of £989.99, a superb price for this TV. View Deal
The 55-inch LG C5 has dropped to a record-low of £989.99 at Argos. Simply use code LG10 at checkout to get the offer. Argos is offering free delivery on all TVs, so you're saving extra money here comapred to Currys. However, if it's not available locally it can't be delivered. It's worth checking Argos first and if it's out of stock, head over to Currys. View Deal
The ultimate all-rounder
(Image credit: Future)
The LG C5 is the ultimate, jack-of-all-trades TV. I awarded it five-stars in my C5 review last year and it currently sits at the top of most of our best-of lists.
The C5's picture quality is its strongest asset. Textures have a 3D-like quality with refined detail. Colours are vibrant and natural in equal measure. In my testing, the reds of the throne room in Star Wars: The Last Jedi were punchy and rich. The C5 has strong contrast too, with deep blacks and bold highlights that make high-contrast scenes in movies like The Batman look great.
With excellent motion handling, the C5 is also great for sports. Razor-sharp performance means fast motion looks smooth with no issues, so if you're looking for a World Cup TV upgrade, it's a great choice (though you'll need to handle its reflective screen in seriously bright rooms).
One of the best gaming TVs on the market, the C5 is fully stocked with features for gaming. It has four HDMI 2.1 ports which support 4K 144Hz, full VRR including FreeSync and G-Sync, HGiG, Dolby Vision gaming and ALLM, as well as a ton of cloud gaming options. When I played Battlefield V, the C5 made light work of the fast-paced gunfights and vehicle sections, thanks to its ultra-low 9.2ms input lag time. If you're looking for a new TV in time for GTA 6, you can't get much better than this one.
The C5 is one of the best value OLEDs on the market too. Even at full price, it gets the price v performance balance right and at a discount, it's unbeatable value.
I’ve tested more than 20 soundbars during my years of reviewing tech and audio products at TechRadar, many of which have performed brilliantly, while some… it’s best we don’t talk about them.
Although I’ve tested some premium surround-sound options such as the LG Sound Suite Immersive Suite 7 Pro and JBL Bar 1300MK2, I’ve also tested a lot of budget-friendly, affordable options. And today, I’m here to share some of the very best affordable models I’ve tested, so you can upgrade from basic TV audio or enter into the world of cinematic Dolby Atmos home entertainment without breaking the bank.
I’ve picked out a range of options, from an ultra-cheap 2.0 channel bar, all the way up to a multi-box combo with Dolby Atmos and Wi-Fi streaming. There really is something for everyone in this list, so without further ado, let’s get into my top picks.
1. Sony HT-S100F / HT-SF150
(Image credit: Future)
Whenever a big sale comes around, I always plug the Sony HT-S100F — also known as the Sony HT-SF150 in some markets, including the UK. Why? Well, it’s because Sony created the ideal affordable audio upgrade for anyone frustrated by unpleasant TV sound.
This one-box 2.0 channel soundbar produces solid clarity and width, with well-defined dialogue, and a built-in bass reflex speaker for enhanced low-end performance. It also makes use of Sony’s proprietary S-Force Front Surround virtual processing, which creates the impression of three-dimensional audio to impressive effect.
With HDMI, digital optical, USB, and Bluetooth connectivity, there are so many ways to enjoy sound on the HT-S100F, and it’s incredibly quick and easy to set up too.
Of course, you’re not going to get the thumping, cinematic bass that larger models can offer, and there’s no Dolby Atmos here either. But if you want clearer sound at an ultra-low price, then the Sony HT-S100F is still one of the very best options on the market.
2. Klipsch Flexus Core 100
(Image credit: Future)
Moving onto a Dolby Atmos soundbar now with the Klipsch Flexus Core 100. This 2.1 channel model is a great performer, with impactful, striking bass output, accurate dialogue reproduction, and impressive power.
Like the aforementioned Sony option, the Flexus Core 100 is also very simple to set up, and its LED display makes it incredibly easy to flick between various modes and options. There’s also a remote included in the box, as well as an awesome companion app which is free to download and super-responsive.
Although there are some limitations in terms of height, the Flexus Core 100 delivers admirable width when watching movies in Dolby Atmos, and when I watched a 4K UHD Blu-ray of The Mask, the titular character’s cartoonish spin sounded as if it was coming from the corners of our testing space.
While an alternative like the Marshall Heston 60 may offer sharper Atmos effects and stronger all-round quality, the Flexus Core 100 is often on-sale for far less than this model, which is a very capable alternative. This Klipsch bar’s talents in the bass department alone make it well-worth considering — especially if you just need a step-up from thin-sounding TV audio.
3. Sonos Beam Gen 2
(Image credit: Future)
OK, shifting up a gear once more, and I’ve simply got to shout out the Sonos Beam Gen 2. This small soundbar may not be the newest, but it’s still sensational. Sure, Sonos owners will get the beauty of multi-room capabilities, and there’s Wi-Fi streaming here too, which makes streaming music from your phone incredibly seamless. But that’s not even the best part.
See, the thing that really stands out about the Sonos Beam Gen 2 is its ability to conjure up almost thunderous bass, in spite of its limited confines. Even when testing it against the newer Marshall Heston 60, I found the Beam Gen 2 to offer more dynamic, and more immersive low-end sound, with high-octane action scenes and sudden jump-scares in horror movies hitting with striking impact.
On top of this, the Beam Gen 2 serves up crystal-clear dialogue, commendable musicality, and Dolby Atmos capabilities. If you want, you can also customize the model’s sound via the Sonos companion app.
What’s more, the Beam 2 looks absolutely gorgeous, with a modern, minimalist aesthetic that I can’t get enough of. If you’re short on space, have a smaller TV, or don’t want to spend all too much, then the Sonos Beam Gen 2 is a ridiculously easy recommendation to make.
4. Samsung HW-Q800F
(Image credit: Future / Aardman Animations)
Finally, we have the best overall choice in our guide to the best soundbars: the Samsung HW-Q800F. And this soundbar isn’t only one of the best affordable options out there, it’s simply one of the best soundbars I’ve ever tested here at TechRadar.
The Q800F is a soundbar-subwoofer combo that delivers incredible value for money. You get seriously convincing, multi-dimensional Dolby Atmos and DTS:X effects, and even height effects come through well — something a lot of Atmos soundbars struggle with. You also get seismic bass from the compact sub, crystal clear dialogue from the main bar, and precise, controlled treble.
In addition, the Q800F is crammed with connectivity options, with HDMI eARC, digital optical, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and even an HDMI input for your games consoles, streaming devices, and more. The sub and soundbar are also paired right out of the box, making your set up phenomenally straightforward.
Yes, the Q800F is a little pricier than the other entries in this list, but you can often find it on sale for far less than its initial list price of $1,099 / £799, which was already strong value considering the quality of this model’s audio, build, and feature-set.
Before the finale episode of Dutton Ranch aired earlier this month, we asked TechRadar readers if they wanted to see it renewed — and with 96% saying 'yes', I have a feeling you'll want to know how to get Paramount+ for $0.99 (was $13.99) a month for two months.
With this limited-time discount applying to both tiers, it's a no-brainer to pick the 'Premium' ad-free plan that gives you access to more features and content, like Showtime Originals, CBS live, and more. The same limited-time offer is also available as part of the Amazon Prime Day sale, where it expires on 25 June — a whole day after Paramount closes its own discount.
Paramount+ 'Premium' ad-free plan: was$27.98 for two months now $1.98 at Paramount Get $26 off the ad-fee Paramount+ 'Premium' plan until June 25 by picking up this limited-time deal, which brings the cost down to just $1.98 per month. The more than 90% off discount also applies to the $8.99 per month 'Essential' tier, but because that includes ads, you're better off just picking the more feature-packed option. Just note, you won't be eligible for a free trial if you sign up for this promotion before it ends on June 25. View Deal
Paramount+ 'Premium' ad-free plan: was$27.98 for two months now $1.98 at Amazon With Prime Day in full swing, you can also find the exact same Paramount+ offer as above at Amazon, so if you're already an Amazon Prime member or have a Prime Video subscription, then this is a great streaming add-on to keep everything in one place. Like the deal above, you can also choose between the 'Premium' and 'Essential' plans. But you do get an extra day to decide whether it's for you, as this offer expires on June 26. View Deal
Paramount+ 'Standard' plan: was£7.99 for a month now £2.99 at Amazon While this saving isn't as good as it in the US, this Paramount+ deal is still worth considering for those of us in the UK, especially if you've not been signed up for a while, and want to catch up on the biggest movies and series you've missed. Just note that the reduced price only lasts for a month. But you do have longer to decide at least, with the deal ending on July 2. View Deal
I'll be honest, I wasn't expecting to see another Paramount+ deal after CEO David Ellison said the streaming service was "reviewing discount practices" in the company's third earnings report last year.
In the same breath, Ellison announced plans to increase the price of both plans at the start of 2026, bumping the Paramount+ cost up by $1 each, while also sunsetting its free trial offer, which is now only available as a membership perk with Walmart+ or DirecTV.
Considering that this Paramount+ discount is also more than half the price of last year's Black Friday streaming deal, I wouldn't hold off grabbing it. Black Friday is often the best time of year to pick up a cheap subscription, which makes this quite likely a record low price for the year.
I'll admit Paramount+ doesn't have the biggest catalog compared to rivals, but more than 40,000 episodes and movies is nothing to scoff at. It's the home of Taylor Sheridan's Yellowstone universe, and after seeing the excitement around its expansion — with one Dutton Ranch star saying season 2 "deserves to be made" — I don't doubt this franchise is a big pull for potential new subscribers.
Are you currently subscribed to Paramount+? Let me know by voting in the poll below, or leave a comment further down. I know a lot of people tend to jump between subscriptions, so I'd love to know if Paramount+ is one you regularly keep on rotation.
That's it, I'm done. I live in the UK in which the weather is temperamental at the best of times, but this June has been out of control. From sweltering heatwaves to shocking sideways rain accompanied by jagged forks of lightning, over the last 24 hours alone it's sometimes been genuinely unsafe to run outside. I'm going to find myself a treadmill, and I'm using the Amazon Prime Day sales to do it.
I'm including both US and UK deals here, so don't worry if you live somewhere a little less unseasonably changeable. I'm also including both walkingpads (otherwise known as the best under-desk treadmills) and conventional treadmills, which tend to be heavier-duty, go faster, and have better safety features, albeit at the expense of bulk and storage. Some models are well-priced as they are, in which case I've included those too.
With temperatures spiking on either side of the Atlantic, now seems like a great time to go on holiday. Possibly to Antarctica. But if you're as avid a gamer as I am, I'm sure that no matter where you end up taking your summer vaycaysh, you'll want to make sure your handheld gaming gear is juiced up and protected. Fortunately, with Amazon Prime Day underway, there's never been a better time to pick up some upgrades.
As a handheld gaming fan and TechRadar's reviews editor, I've personally selected some of the best upgrades I can find for your Steam Deck, Nintendo Switch 2 or other portable gaming devices. Whether you want to keep your console charged for days on end, immerse yourself in that fantastic soundtrack or prevent a clumsy moment cracking your screen, I've got some great finds for you.
If you want to know about the hottest US gaming deals as soon as they drop, make sure to follow our Amazon Prime Day live blog for all the latest price drops. Based in the UK? Don't worry: our Amazon Prime Day UK deals roundup has got you covered.
I couldn't properly use an Xbox console until one particular controller came out this generation, and ever since I've held a special place for it in my gaming heart.
Even as a gaming hardware reviewer for years, prior to the Thrustmaster eSwap X Pro controller that released a little after the Series X and S launched, I really struggled with any Xbox controller due to having slightly different hands. A controller that could be turned into the layout I need, symmetrical, was a revolution. You can't get that original one anymore, but the eSwap X2 and eSwap X2 H.E. variants are excellent new iterations.
Since then, I've had hands-on with a whole load of other controllers that are absolutely brilliant for a multitude of reasons.
From ol' reliables like the standard DualSense, to another modular belter in the Victrix Pro BFG range, and from premium first-party pads like the excellent DualSense Edge, to Pro-focused controllers like the SCUF Omega there's more choice than ever — and I've rounded up some of my absolute favorites below for your perusal ahead of the Amazon Prime Day deals this week.
Some of my favorite controllers for PS5, Xbox, and PC available right now
It’s finally happened. The soundbar I use everyday at home just got a juicy discount, and there really is no better time to snap it up. That’s right, the Marshall Heston 120 is available for £699 (was £899) at Currys. The Heston 120 is an excellent 5.1.2 all-in-one soundbar that oozes style and produces amazing audio — for both movies and music.
Although Amazon Prime Day is imminent, these Marshall soundbar deals are easy recommendations. I’ve been using the Heston 120 for more than a year now, and it's served me brilliantly, and I personally tested the Heston 60 too, even comparing it against top-tier rivals like the Sonos Beam Gen 2. Want to hear more about these deals? Here’s the lowdown.
Today's best Marshall Heston 120 deal
At £699, the Marshall Heston 120 is a great value buy. With mouth-wateringly good looks, excellent Atmos performance, impressive bass output, and a plethora of connectivity options, it really does feel like the ideal all-in-one option. I use it everyday to watch movies and listen to music, and it's a joy to use, so don't miss out!View Deal
Today's best Marshall Heston 60 deal
The Marshal Heston 60 is a top-tier small-sized soundbar, delivering awesome Atmos in a miniature package. It also plates up clear dialogue, solid musicality, and punchy bass, and will make a spectacular addition to a more compact living space, a spare room, or a smaller TV setup.View Deal
In my Marshall Heston 120 review last year, I described it as an all-in-one soundbar that's "hard to beat," praising its clear dialogue, strong Dolby Atmos effects, and impressive bass response. Seriously, for a standalone model, the Heston 120 can whip up seriously powerful low-end, although you can enhance this even more by grabbing the Marshall Heston Sub 200.
One of the main reasons I've continued to choose the Heston 120 over the red-hot competition, is that I live on the top floor of an apartment block, so having an earth-shaking sub isn't exactly ideal. With the Heston 120, I get impactful low-end and stellar all-round quality without compromising the sanity of my neighbors. It also slots into my limited space beautifully, and its amp-inspired style makes it the perfect centerpiece.
But if you're working with even less space, then you can't go wrong with this model's younger sibling. Yes, when I reviewed the Marshall Heston 60, it honestly took me by surprise. And that's mainly because its Dolby Atmos performance was far more convincing than I'd expected for a compact soundbar.
When watching 4K Blu-rays, the Heston 60 effortlessly tracked the on-screen action, and conjured up a surprisingly wide soundstage. OK, height effects aren't as impressive as on the Heston 120, but Atmos is generally stronger than I've heard from other top competitors like the Sonos Beam Gen 2.
Both soundbars also offer great musicality — especially the Marshall Heston 120. This is something that a lot of soundbars get wrong, but the Heston models offer delicious depth, a nuanced soundstage, and plenty of detail right across the frequency range.
At this cut-price, you really can't go wrong with the Marshall Heston 120 — it sounds just as beautiful as it looks, and it even has a gigantic range of connectivity options, with everything from HDMI eARC and Wi-Fi through to RCA and Bluetooth. The Heston 60 is also a spectacular small soundbar that can easily slot into any space, and I'd recommend almost as highly as its larger counterpart.
Microsoft warns of “Crypto Clipper,” a worm spreading via malicious .LNK files on USB drives
Malware maintains persistence, connects to Tor C2, enables remote code execution, and steals clipboard crypto data
It swaps wallet addresses, exfiltrates seed phrases/private keys, and uploads screenshots to assess target value
Microsoft is warning of an ongoing campaign targeting cryptocurrency owners with a clipboard-jacking worm.
In a new in-depth report published late last week, Microsoft’s security researchers explained that they recently analyzed a thumb drive that contained seemingly normal documents (Word files, Excel spreadsheets). However, the documents were replaced with Windows shortcut (.LNK) files which actually launched a piece of malware called Crypto Clipper.
This malware does a couple of things. First, it spreads by creating malicious .LNK files on USB drives and other removable media. It also sets up scheduled tasks to maintain persistence and automatically infect newly connected USB devices. Second, it behaves like a backdoor by regularly contacting a C2 server over the Tor network and receiving commands from the attacker. The server can also send commands to have the malware download and execute attacker-supplied code on the infected system, as well.
Stealing wallet data
Finally, Crypto Clipper acts as a clipboard clipper by monitoring the Windows clipboard for cryptocurrency wallet addresses, seed phrases, and private keys. If it spots a wallet address, it can replace it with a different one, owned by the attackers, so that any tokens sent by the victim go to the attacker, instead. It can also steal and exfiltrate copied seed phrases and private keys, which can be used to load a victim's crypto wallet on a separate device.
To help attackers assess the value of a target, the malware periodically captures screenshots of the victim's screen and uploads them through the Tor network.
“This malware family shows how lightweight, script-based stealers can deliver outsized impact when paired with anonymized communications and runtime tasking,” Microsoft said. “The combination of Tor-routed C2, clipboard targeting, screenshot capture, and remote code execution gives attackers both immediate monetization paths and continued control over compromised devices.”
Microsoft did not say if the malware targeted any specific countries or regions, nor did it discuss the number of victims.
This HP laptop may be Amazon's best-selling Windows notebook just before Prime Day sales, but I truly cannot recommend it. The HP 250 G10 uses an Intel N100 processor, which is very poor value for money for a laptop that costs just under $500 (and that 37% discount claim seems very dubious).
Yes, it has 16GB of RAM, a 512GB SSD and a full HD display but that's simply not good enough to change my opinion of this laptop. (And yes, it uses a trick I despise to attract customers).
The N100 is so underpowered that it will struggle with even mundane tasks. Add the small 41Whr battery and you've got the perfect combination for hours of frustration and lost productivity.
So instead, here are five other laptops I'd personally recommend. For the same outlay (or less), they deliver far, far better value for money without the guaranteed irritation. Head over to our live hub for the latest Prime Day deals on a host of tech.
This Acer Aspire Go is the most powerful laptop you can buy for less than $500 right now. It looks like it is a pricing mistake as it sells for less than its worst-specced sibling. It sports an AMD Ryzen 7 7730U 8-core CPU with 16GB of RAM and 512GB SSD.View Deal
Intel Core i5 120U | 16GB DDR5 RAM | 512GB SSD
The only convertible laptop worth buying under $500, the IdeaPad 5i is a great match for anyone looking for a large screen with a powerful processor capable of playing light games, plenty of storage and the all important 16GB of RAM. Free Microsoft 365 Premium and Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription for one year makes it a perfect gift for back-to-school. This is the laptop I'd buy from this list.View Deal
If I had to spend my own money, I'd go for this Aspire 3 from Acer as it is the best value for money laptop in Early Amazon Prime Day sales. It has a fast AMD Ryzen 5 7430U (about 4x faster than the N100) and, like the HP laptop, features 32GB of RAM, Windows 11 Pro and a 1TB SSD.View Deal
Intel Core i3-1315U | 16GB DDR5 RAM | 256GB SSD
This is a great price for a relatively modern laptop with a well-performing, efficient Core i3 CPU. On top of that, you get 16GB of RAM, a 256GB SSD, and a solid battery life of up to 12 hours, which represents good value for money overall. I like it as a capable, all-around, everyday machine. The cheapest laptop worth buying on this list.View Deal
Intel Core i5-1334U | 16GB DDR5 RAM | 256GB SSD
Here's a solid and affordable Windows laptop available at Walmart. While it has a smaller 256GB SSD and shorter battery life than its rivals, it still holds its own in raw performance thanks to fast DDR5 RAM and a reliable Intel Core i5 chip.View Deal
Intel Core i5-1334U | 16GB DDR4 RAM | 512GB SSD
If you want a cheap Windows laptop, then this configuration of the Dell 15 Laptop is an excellent buy and terrific value for money. You get an Intel Core i5 processor, 16GB of RAM and a large 512GB SSD to ensure good overall performance and enough essential speedy storage for the price. It's a top buy right now if you're on a budget and need a laptop for general everyday use, admin tasks, light work, or schoolwork.View Deal
The V15 is a very business-focused laptop with Windows 11 Pro to boot. It has a quicker CPU than the Acer Aspire 3, but only half the memory and half the storage capacity. If you are looking for a rugged device though, that may be the one as it is built to MIL-STD 810H standards.View Deal
We reviewed the Flip S (aka BR1402F) back in the day and found it immensely likable. Yes, it is heavy and comes with only a Core i3 CPU but it is modular, very well built (and spill-resistant), and can transform into a tablet, something that no other laptop in this list can.View Deal
After making history in France's FIFA World Cup 2026 opener, Kylian Mbappe will aim to pick up where he left off as Didier Deschamps' side take on Iraq in Group I. A second win in North America would secure safe passage to the last 32 for Les Bleus, while the Lions of Mesopotamia need to avoid defeat to keep their slim hopes of progress alive.
Mbappe scored twice in the 3-1 win over Senegal to overtake Olivier Giroud as his country's all-time top goalscorer and break Just Fontaine's record for the most World Cup finals goals by a Frenchman. Only Lionel Messi, Miroslav Klose and the Brazilian Ronaldo have now scored more tournament goals than the Real Madrid superstar, who will fancy his chances of passing the latter two in the coming weeks. The France skipper may even do that against minnows Iraq, who now face one of the tournament favorites in Philadelphia.
It always looked like Iraq would struggle to progress from a tricky Group I and the 4-1 defeat by Norway only supported that theory. Graham Arnold's side did at least enjoy a moment to savor when Aymen Hussein's first-half equalizer briefly restored parity, as they celebrated a World Cup goal for just the second time in their history. Unfortunately, Hussein's later own goal meant he became the third player in World Cup history to score at both ends in the same game. Arnold faces the unenviable task of finding a way to stop France's all-star attack, with Michael Olise already purring this tournament.
So, read on as we show you exactly how to watch France vs Iraq for free from anywhere in the FIFA World Cup 2026.
France vs Iraq is available to watch for free in multiple countries, including the UK, Australia, Brazil, Belgium, Ireland, Netherlands, Switzerland and Turkey.
Abroad? Can't access your free stream? Unblock your free World Cup stream with Norton VPN — more on that below.
Use a VPN to watch France vs Iraq live streams
It’s the World Cup, and if you’re traveling, you might discover your usual France vs Iraq stream is suddenly unavailable due to geo-restrictions.
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Goalkeepers: Fahad Talib (Al-Talaba), Jalal Hassan (Al-Zawraa), Ahmed Basil (Al-Shorta).
Defenders: Rebin Sulaka (Port), Hussein Ali (Pogon Szczecin), Zaid Tahseen (Pakhtakor), Akam Hashim (Al-Zawraa), Manaf Younis (Al-Shorta), Ahmed Yahya (Al-Shorta), Merchas Doski (Viktoria Plzen), Mustafa Saadoon (Al-Shorta), Frans Putros (Persib).
Midfielders: Youssef Amyn (AEK Larnaca), Ibrahim Bayesh (Al-Dhafra), Ahmed Qasem (Nashville SC), Zidane Iqbal (Utrecht), Amir Al-Ammari (Cracovia), Ali Jasim (Al-Naima), Kevin Yakob (AGF), Aimar Sher (Sarpsborg), Marko Farji (Venezia), Zaid Ismail (Al-Talaba).
Forwards: Ali Al-Hamadi (Ipswich Town), Mohanad Ali (Dibba), Ali Yousif (Al-Talaba), Aymen Hussein (Al-Karma).
Group I Table
Position
Team
GD
Points
1
Norway
3
3
2
France
2
3
3
Senegal
-2
0
4
Iraq
-3
0
Can I watch France vs Iraq on my mobile?
Of course, most broadcasters have streaming services that you can access through mobile apps or via your phone's browser.
You can also stay up-to-date with all of the key World Cup moments on the official social media channels on X/Twitter (@FIFAWorldCup), Instagram (@FIFAWorldCup), TikTok (@FIFAWorldCup) and YouTube (@FIFA).
We test and review VPN services in the context of legal recreational uses. For example:1. Accessing a service from another country (subject to the terms and conditions of that service).2. Protecting your online security and strengthening your online privacy when abroad.We do not support or condone the illegal or malicious use of VPN services. Consuming pirated content that is paid-for is neither endorsed nor approved by Future Publishing.
Coffee machines are always a solid shout when Amazon Prime Day comes around, and more often than not you can score a fairly reasonable deal, especially for entry-level models like the Nespresso Vertuo Pop.
I've been out of the Nespresso game for a few years — my machine totally gave up on me and now it's resting in peace — but if I were to reboot my relationship with the best Nespresso machines, the Vertuo Pop would be the first place I'd start.
As far as its pricing history goes, the Vertuo Pop+ is back down to its Black Friday price, which is always refreshing to see during Prime Day. That said, it's been way over a year since it hit an all-time-low price, which makes us think it won't get any cheaper as Prime Day kicks in. View Deal
UK shoppers be warned, there are only a few hours left before this deal expires and Prime Day officially begins, not to mention it's only 99p above its lowest price ever. Given the bright red countdown on its Amazon listing, it's likely this deal won't survive the morning. View Deal
Though there are deals on both sides of the pond, there are slight differences between the Vertuo Pop and Vertuo Pop+. The main one is the latter model has a larger water tank, meaning less trips back and forth to the sink for refills.
The Pop+ also has automatic lid closure and can accommodate larger mugs. But aside from their minor differences, both are solid options for beginners, or for those who were once in the Nespresso game, and now want to make a comeback.
We gave the Vertuo Pop a respectable 4 stars in our review for a number of reasons, but it was convenience and speed that impressed us the most. It's built on a one-touch system, which produces a tasty cup of coffee in four ways (Mug/Coffee, Gran Lungo, Double Espresso, and Espresso) in less than 30 seconds, a quick and easy way to get your morning caffeine fix.
The only downside to owning any Nespresso machine is the pods, meaning you have to keep restocking. Fortunately, the Vertuo Pop comes with a 12-capsule variety pack to get you started.
Grand Theft Auto 6 pre-orders are starting this week, and it's the perfect time to have a look at your console gaming setup, be it PS5 or Xbox Series X or S, and think about any upgrades you might want to make. It'll be the perfect way to ensure your setup is up to date with new gear that you're used to by the time the game arrives on your doorstep.
Be it upgrading your console to get the best performance, embracing a new display to make Vice City shine, getting a premium controller to ensure you have every action at your fingertips, or taking a step up audibly to ensure you get can hear all the sounds, there's likely to be something worth mulling over before GTA 6 comes in November.
As a result, I've taken it upon myself to suggest some brilliant products in key console setup areas that will make a difference to your GTA 6 experience, while also fielding some suggestions from the rest of our TechRadar experts. You'll find US and UK prices for each below, and if you're not in those regions, you can head to the bottom and find a list of the best prices available in your region as presented by our price-finding tech. If you're looking for an early retailer page to sit on for the game itself, then the below ones are worth bookmarking, too.
Yep, it'll be a big purchase to consider at any time of the year, but if you're going to be a GTA 6 player who wants the best possible experience with the game and be able to have all the bells and whistles it can offer, then it might be time to consider some more horsepower.
In terms of those rocking a last-gen console still (a PS4 or Xbox One) then this should be of great interest, and if you're already a regular PS5 owner or a Series S owner, then making the jump up to the PS5 Pro or Series X, respectively, might ensure you get the most out of GTA 6's likely graphical and technical prowess.
This is even more the case if you own a 120Hz-capable TV or monitor, as that'll help you get even more out of such a machine, especially the PS5 Pro.
Annoyingly, there are no cracking deals on the PS5 Pro in the US right now, but we still want to recommend it as perhaps the best console to get for GTA 6 given its spec sheet, PSSR, WiFi upgrade, and 2TB hard drive.View Deal
Sadly, there are no truly excellent prices on the ordinary Series X console in the States either, so the best 'value' pick — even though it's a bit more of an investment — is the 2TB Galaxy Black Special Edition version here. Plus, its massive storage upgrade compared to other Xbox consoles might come in handy if the rumors of GTA 6's file sizes are to be believed...View Deal
The premium PS5 Pro is best acquired at EE right now in the UK, with the retailer knocking 45 pounds off the console's list price. We predict the PS5 Pro could be the definitive way to play GTA 6, given Rockstar's close relationship with Sony, so this is our top pick for the console to play the game on. View Deal
It looks like Very is the best place to go for a Series X console right now in the UK, with a neat 20 quid off the list price. If you're committed to the Xbox ecosystem and brand, and are either on Series S or Xbox One right now, then this is the UK upgrade to go for.View Deal
Let the game shine
GTA 6 is likely to be a visual marvel of the video game medium, trumping almost all other video game worlds, environments, and aesthetics (well, nearly all, surely) and what better way to make sure you catch every detail and enjoy every colour, stripe, and crack in the sidewalk than by upgrading to a new and superior display.
The LG C5 is our single pick for those looking to go big for a Grand Theft Auto 6 big screen experience, as it has the best feature set, image processing, and picture detail for the price right now. It offers extraordinary bang-for-buck value, especially in the face of the newer C6 being out now.
For those looking for a monitor, the Alienware AW32255QF is a 4K curved beauty that is perfect for both PS5 and Xbox players, offering all the connectivity and specs you need, while also giving you a brilliant QD-OLED panel with a gorgeous curve to pull you into games.
I asked James Davidson, our resident TV expert, for his one single pick for those looking to go big for GTA 6 with a TV purchase, and this was his precise pick for US readers. It's a superb TV and offers exceptional value in the face of its new brethren, the C6 being out right now too. A great TV to cruise the streets of Vice City on.View Deal
James also recommended this precise variant of the brilliant LG C5 for UK readers too. And it's great value for money this week. To get this deal at Crampton and Moore, simply use code LG10 at checkout. View Deal
Sadly, there's no discount running on my favorite console monitor in the US right now, but it might be one to keep an eye on at retailers, including parent company Dell, linked here, over the rest of the week for Prime Day.View Deal
This is a good price on one of my absolute favorite monitors to buy right now, and it's the lowest price on the monitor —using Amazon data — since December, so now is a great time to strike!View Deal
Feel the burn
If you want to have all the tools and weapons available to you at all times in GTA 6 and want the utmost level of versatility and 'at your fingertips' control for GTA 6, then going for a better controller, one that offers more than the standard offerings, is a brilliant move.
It's an easy choice for both consoles for me, here, with Sony's DualSense Edge, especially when on offer, giving PS5 players a familiar and effortless way to upgrade their controller, while those on Xbox should definitely go for the Asus ROG Raikiri II, which is perhaps the very best third-party Xbox controller going.
You can save a neat 10 bucks off the brilliant DualSense Edge pad over at Walmart right now. Now that we're out of Sony's own Days of Play sale, this is a good price, but it's also one worth keeping an eye on over Prime Day week.View Deal
This is a wonderful price for the high-end first-party controller that will let you fully unleash in Vice City later this year.View Deal
Definitely one to keep an eye out for and price drops this week, but this is one of our absolute favorite premium Xbox (and PC) controllers and is absolutely excellent for anyone looking to get loads out of their pad.View Deal
It looks like the Asus ROG Raikiri II is a little hard to find at the obvious retailers in the UK, but Overclockers has it in stock — but sadly with no discount right now. Worth keeping an eye on this week though.View Deal
Hear every detail of Vice City
Upgrading your audio by going with a fantastic set of quality earcups from a trusted brand is one of the most tangible ways to improve your gaming experience in one fell swoop — and without having to do any huge sweeping changes to a set up.
The Audeze Maxwell 2, with its fantastic planar-magnetic drivers, is my favorite gaming headset for pure audio quality right now, and it will be perfect for anyone looking to hear every detail in Vice City.
It also comes in PlayStation and Xbox-facing variants so it's a cross-platform recommendation, and you'll find links for both below.
Sadly, no discount on the brilliant Audeze Maxwell 2 at the time of writing, but it's seriously good, so you won't regret it even at full price. Having said that, it's Prime Day week so that could bring deals, and the Maxwell 2ANC has been announced so might put pressure on the 'ordinary' Maxwell 2's price.
This is a pretty good price for the Audeze Maxell 2 in the UK as it often sells for north of £300. The sound is seriously so, so, good from this headset, you'll be wondering how you survived without it beforehand.
Rumors have abounded about the potential file size of Rockstar's next behemoth, and if even some of them come partially close, some extra storage space is likely to be very welcome indeed! However, we've all seen the price rises happening, so it's a bit of a struggle finding great value for money in any kind of memory right now. I've picked out the best prices on some great value offerings below though.
By far the best solution on PS5 — and perhaps even more acutely for those rocking a launch PS5 with its smaller hard drive — is an internal SSD. As for Xbox, there's only really one storage device to recommend, and that's the bespoke model for Series X or S that's made by Seagate or WD_Black — I've recommended the WD_Black variant below as it's always better value for money.
While not bombastic value for money, if you want a PS5 SSD to commit to right now or want to keep an eye on one from a trusted brand, this is it.View Deal
Acer's GM7000 is a trusted PS5 SSD with heatsink you can go for right now, and given the discount is probably the best deal on a 1TB drive I can find right now for a PS5 SSD.View Deal
Sadly, another one that's not on offer right now in the US, but offers decent value at its list price, and is also one to keep an eye on this week. It's a great drive, though, and the bespoke design means it connects straight to the console's motherboard for best performance.View Deal
Not a new price on this variant of the C50 by any means, but this offers robust value for money and was still selling at the list price of £150 in April.View Deal
ALPR (Automated License Plate Recognition) camera tech is getting smarter
A new company is bridging the gap between cameras and connected tech
Tools to avoid ALPR cameras are rapidly gaining popularity
More than 5,000 law enforcement departments across the US use Flock Safety cameras to track billions of license plates every month, according to a report from NBC news, helping them build an enormous database of the movements of everyday people.
But Flock is just one company working on such tech, with hundreds of new automatic license plate reader (ALPR) cameras and devices springing up daily.
More recently, 404Media has highlighted a new tech firm that aims to add phone, AirPod and Smartwatch location data to license plate readers in order to build a clearer picture about who was driving what… and when. Understandably, rebellious drivers are now fighting back thanks to a new website called DeFlock.
Leonardo's SignalTrace system is designed to scan the airwaves for signals left by myriad Bluetooth and wireless connected devices in order to link these to a license plate as it passes, potentially placing an individual in a vehicle at a specific time and place.
Leonardo says its technology uses "non-intrusive intelligence gathering" to detect publicly broadcasted device identifiers, feeding this data into an advanced algorithm so that multiple devices traveling together could link an individual to a vehicle and vice versa.
The police and other law enforcement agencies are then able to access this data, but concerns have been raised about the potential for hacking or misuse by the authorities to track personal relations.
Analysis: Privacy advocates are pushing back
(Image credit: Deflock.org)
In a move that aims to hand back some control to the individual, a website called DeFlock has surfaced that allows anyone to plan routes that actively avoid Flock’s ALPR cameras altogether and generally provide a more privacy-focussed alternative.
Just like most digital route-planners, users plug in a start and end point for their journey, changing how aggressively they want the software to avoid cameras, according to Carscoops.
The site will then compare a normal route to the more private alternative, suggesting how many miles and minutes a detour would take.
Website user numbers are on the increase, as organizations, such as the Electronic Frontier Foundation, have warned that Flock’s surveillance camera systems are designed to enable “mass surveillance” and are susceptible to “grave abuses”, according to its own investigations.
Last year, the EFF reported on how more than 50 federal, state, and local agencies ran hundreds of searches through Flock's national network of surveillance data in connection with protest activity over a ten-month period, for example.
With news that ALPR cameras could soon be linked to connected devices, some sectors of the general public are understandably concerned, with one Reddit user commenting: “the only hope for anything is a Digital Civil Rights movement”.
If you want the most capable 16-inch laptop available right now without compromise, the Acer Predator Helios 16 AI (PH16-73) is $3000 (was $3500) at B&H Photo. This is an absolute beast of a machine for video editing, 3D workflows, gaming, and just about any demanding workload you can throw at it. And it's the cheapest RTX 5090 laptop I've come across.
The RTX 5090 laptop GPU is the headline here, and it earns it. Based on Nvidia’s Blackwell architecture with 10,496 CUDA cores and 24GB of GDDR7 memory, it’s the most powerful consumer laptop GPU ever made.
The Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX is an Arrow Lake chip with 24 cores — 8 performance cores running up to 5.4GHz and 16 efficiency cores — and it’s a serious processor by any measure. Overall, the Acer Predator Helios 16 AI is as close as laptops get to a no-compromise flagship right now.
Today's top RTX 5090 laptop deal
This is the full-spec configuration: Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX (24 cores, up to 5.4GHz), RTX 5090 laptop GPU at 175W with 24GB GDDR7, 32GB DDR5, and 2TB of PCIe 4.0 SSD split across two drives. The 16-inch OLED display runs at 240Hz, 2560×1600, 100% DCI-P3, with G-SYNC support. Connectivity is exceptional: Thunderbolt 5 (120Gbps), 5GbE wired Ethernet, Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.4, HDMI 2.1, and USB-A ports. Acer’s InfiniteRing RGB lighting and MagKey 4.0 keyboard round out a machine that means business. Free 2-day shipping. Also includes $129 in free accessories.View Deal
The 240Hz OLED display at 2560×1600 with 100% DCI-P3 coverage is outstanding for both visual work and high-refresh gaming. The combination of OLED’s infinite contrast and perfect blacks with a 240Hz panel and G-SYNC adaptive sync gives you a display that serves creative professionals well.
The connectivity package is where the Helios 16 AI pulls significantly ahead of most competitors. Thunderbolt 5 at 120Gbps is a generational leap over Thunderbolt 4 — it can drive an 8K display, transfer a 4TB SSD backup in under 10 minutes, or connect multiple high-bandwidth peripherals simultaneously. The 5GbE wired Ethernet port is fast enough to eliminate network bottlenecks entirely for anyone on a 2.5G or 5G home or office network. Wi-Fi 7 handles wireless connectivity with the same class-leading bandwidth.
Acer’s 6th Gen AeroBlade 3D fans and liquid metal thermal compound keep the system stable under sustained load.
Now, when I call this a beast, I mean it. It weighs around 2.6kg and the 330W power brick is substantial. This is a desktop replacement that travels, not an ultra-portable laptop. If you can live with those realities — and many professionals absolutely can — the Helios 16 AI delivers desktop-grade performance in a form factor that fits in a backpack.
Right now the Nintendo Switch 2 is listed for just $449 (was $499.99), but using the code lets returning Woot! shoppers bag an extra $30 off to take the price down to just $419. That's not all, though, as site newcomers get a generous $50 off instead, which sends the cost plunging to only $399.
This is the cheapest I've ever seen Nintendo's latest console go in the US, and I expect it to sell out fast, so make sure to take advantage of this discount while you can. Remember, you have to input CHEAPSWITCH2 for the best price!
Today's best Nintendo Switch 2 deal
Use code CHEAPSWITCH2
The Nintendo Switch 2 is already discounted to just $449 at Woot, but using code CHEAPSWITCH2 at checkout nets returning customers an extra $30 off and newcomers a whopping $50 additional discount. This is an absolutely ridiculous sale, so I'd grab it while stock is still sticking around.View Deal
79% of data centers are exposed to climate hazards, 54% face chronic heat or drought
Higher temperatures lead to more cooling demand, creating a vicious circle
Component longevity is also at risk from heat and other impacts
According to new First Street research, four in five (79%) or the world's data center capacity is exposed to climate hazards like flooding, wildfire and winds, with more than half (54%) of data centers located in areas that face chronic heat or drought stress.
With hyperscalers investing billions to keep up with demands created by AI, First Street stresses that today's decisions could impact cloud computing for years to come.
But even without further investments, rising temperatures and the effects of climate change could put existing facilities under further pressure.
Hyperscalers are building data centers in at-risk areas
Besides the obvious risk of component damage, higher temperatures also mean that data centers need more cooling than they previously did, driving up electricity and water consumption. Because chips and other components operate best at an optimal temperature, higher temperatures could even cause them to fail sooner.
Flooding, winds and storms also threaten electrical systems, network connectivity and fiber networks, potentially leading to outages.
The revelation comes just weeks after a separate study from insurer MS Amlin found that half (56%) of all new projects are being located in disaster-prone areas.
"Most underwriting for real assets still uses historical data, but the climate is no longer behaving the way the historical record would predict," CEO Matthew Eby said.
But with part and utility costs soaring, companies are being forced to reduce costs elsewhere, including locating campuses in cheaper areas that are often more at-risk. With companies already having to consider compute capacity, power availability, connectivity and local opposition, "climate risk is becoming an increasingly important determinant of long-term performance," First Street warns.
"Together, these risks affect NOI stability, cash flow durability, and long-term asset performance," the company added.
The country of Georgia has finally arrived on Google Street View
Google has highlighted several major sights worth seeing
The imagery is available in Google Maps and Google Earth
Street View is still expanding, almost 20 years after Google first launched it, and the East European country of Georgia is the latest to be added to the platform — with some spectacular sites and landmarks included, besides all the roads and highways.
"Georgia is a country defined by the scale of its history and the dramatic diversity of its landscapes," says Google, who worked with the Georgian government to get the country on the Street View map.
Some 13,000 kilometers (8,078 miles) of roads have been added, and can be found in Google Maps and Google Earth. You can check out the Jvari Monastery (part of an UNESCO World Heritage Site), the medieval stone towers of Ushguli, and the Bridge of Peace that crosses the Kura River in the capital Tbilisi.
There's also Telavi in the Kakheti region, the center of a wine-making tradition in Georgia that goes back 8,000 years. Grapes from these vineyards are still fermented in traditional clay jars called qvevri, which are buried underground.
Another GeoGuessr level
The Ushguli medieval villages can now be accessed via Street View (Image credit: Future)
Another sight worth seeing: the Jvari Pass, high up in the mountains, part of the Greater Caucasus range. Spend a few minutes clicking around on the new Street View images and you'll find plenty of fantastic views.
Of course, you don't have to check out the biggest tourist spots or the most well-known roads. In Google Maps on the web, just drag the little yellow pegman (lower right) into the map somewhere — as you hover with your mouse cursor, Street View roads will turn blue, and that now includes Georgia.
As well as checking out potential spots to travel to, the new imagery is also a boon for GeoGuessr players trying to name the country from a Street View picture. One poster calls it a "beautiful country" that's a "great addition".
While many of us will be well used to Street View imagery in our part of the world, it isn't everywhere yet. Countries including Cyprus and Paraguay were only added last year, while it's missing in China and many African and Middle Eastern nations.
If you’re in the US, the 55-inch S95F is available for $1,597 (was $1,999) at Best Buy: another record-low price. The S95F is ideal if you’re looking for an OLED for a bright room, with its high brightness and seriously effective anti-reflection matte screen. It also delivers excellent motion handling, making it a perfect OLED for the World Cup.
Amazon Prime Day is sure to bring on some great TV deals, but you might not need to wait. For a flagship OLED, this is a fantastic price.
Today's best Samsung S95F deals
The Samsung S95F delivers superb picture quality, with high brightness, vibrant colors, and effective reflection handling thanks to its anti-glare screen — it really is a fantastic World Cup TV upgrade. This deal takes the 55-inch model down to £1,237.50, a record-low for this phenomenal five-star OLED. View Deal
If you've been holding out for a premium World Cup TV upgrade, this deal on the Samsung S95F 55-inch might be perfect. Dropping to a record-low $1,597 at Best Buy, the S95F's bold colors, high brightness and brilliant anti-reflection screen make it a prime companion for the World Cup. View Deal
One of the ultimate bright room OLEDs
(Image credit: Future)
OLED’s main weakness has always been reflections. Trying to watch a glossy OLED screen in a bright room can be a real challenge, which is why I’m delighted that Samsung introduced its OLED Glare Free screen in 2024. While this tech initially had a negative effect on black levels, giving them a raised look, it was refined in 2025 with Glare Free 2.0, which debuted on the Samsung S95F flagship OLED.
When I tested the S95F, I was blown away by its picture quality. Its color reproduction is superb, and vivid tones really shine on screen. In the Wizard & I scene from Wicked, pink flowers in a tree pop with brilliant vibrancy, while the greens of trees and Elphaba’s skin appear impressively natural. Contrast is also excellent on the S95F, delivering rich black tones and punchy highlights that worked great for dark scenes in The Batman, such as the fight on the subway and the first crime scene in Mayor Mitchell’s house.
What makes the S95F a good option for the World Cup? It’s a combo of its high brightness — which measured at 2,132 nits peak HDR and 380 nits full screen HDR in Standard mode (the mode I’d recommend for sports) — the effective anti-glare screen that I mentioned before, and its solid motion handling. Mix these elements together and you get an awesome World Cup TV.
Outside of watching movies and sports, the S95F is also one of the best gaming TVs around. Kitted out with four HDMI 2.1 ports, it supports 4K 165Hz, FreeSync and G-Sync, ALLM and HDR10+ gaming. It has a measured 9.5ms input lag time, meaning it has razor-sharp performance — even for some of the most demanding games.
Recently, in a showdown between the LG G6 and the S95F, I did say that the G6 pipped the S95F as the best OLED TV for bright rooms, mainly because its black tones looked richer. But, as the G6 recently launched, you’ll be looking at paying a much higher price compared to the S95F, meaning the Samsung is the one I’d pick for Prime Day.
A leaker claims there will be a Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 this year instead of a Watch 9 Classic
They shared renders of the Ultra 2 and the Samsung Galaxy Watch 9
They also claimed there will be beige, black, and silver colors for them
This year it looks like we might get a successor to the Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra, as a new leak has revealed fresh details along with the Samsung Galaxy Watch 9.
Over on X (via 9to5Google), leaker Galaxy Techie has claimed that these are the two new Samsung smartwatches we’ll see this year — and that there won’t be a Classic. That post has also now suspiciously been removed.
That’s at odds with some earlier leaks which suggested we might get a Classic instead of or as well as a new Ultra, so we’d take this with a pinch of salt. But it would make sense, since Samsung usually only launches new Classic models every other year, and we already got one last year with the Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 Classic.
A successor to the 2024 Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra is certainly due — and according to this source, the Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 will have a slightly boxier design than its predecessor, along with thinner bezels and an orange outline on the side button, rather than it being all orange.
Three colors and some software changes
(Image credit: Future)
The leaker also claims that both the Samsung Galaxy Watch 9 and the Watch Ultra 2 will have new band designs and colors, listing beige, black with a bluish band, and silver with a green band variants — though it’s unclear whether they mean both models will come in all three of those shades.
Finally, they’ve also shared some renders which — while lacking in detail — do give us a look at the possible design of these wearables, along with the redesigned Samsung Health app and what looks to be a new watchface picker, as you can see above.
In any case, we probably won’t have to wait much longer to get an official look at whatever wearables Samsung is cooking up, as this year’s Galaxy Watches will probably launch in July.
I’ve been reviewing gadgets at TechRadar for years now, and it’s pretty rare that something stops me in my tracks and so violently defies my expectations. But sometimes, a special product comes along and totally stuns me: and that was well and truly the case with the Sennheiser CX 80U.
Now you might be thinking: really? A pair of wired earbuds? But yes, they really were that impressive. See it all comes down to quality vs price, and these earbuds genuinely sound way, way better than I expected given their typical cost of $39.95 / £34.99. If you want rich, detailed sound at a highly-accessible price-point, the CX 80U are all you need.
I’ll drill into the beauty of this product more down below, but the bottom line is: the CX 80U are what I’d recommend to anyone looking to go back to wired earbuds in 2026.
Low risk, high reward
(Image credit: Future)
I’ve already touched on the Sennheiser CX 80U’s low price (and they’re occasionally discounted for even less), but let’s discuss what exactly makes them so special.
These buds use a USB-C connector with a built-in DAC, opening up lossless audio — something that’s not truly possible over Bluetooth, which is an inherently lossy technology. By using USB-C as a connectivity method, the CX 80U aren’t only optimized for modern smartphones, tablets, and laptops, but they also won’t need to be charged like their Bluetooth counterparts — and I often keep them with me in case I forget to juice up my Sony WH-1000XM6 headphones or LG Tone Free T90S earbuds.
But as practical as the CX 80U are, the real highlight is their performance. They show impeccable attention to detail, and can easily illuminate elements such as subtle percussion or delicate vocal intricacies. However, they also nail the fundamentals, with well-balanced, agile bass, clear mids, and vivid treble.
Speaking of treble, I found this to be a real highlight on the CX 80U — highs have an impressive sense of space, and often sound as if they’re operating in a well-defined pocket, giving percussion in particular plenty of space to express itself. But during my time testing the CX 80U, I was impressed with their quality right across the frequency range, and regardless of what genre I threw at them, they delivered an enjoyable and entertaining listen each time.
As well as sounding great, the CX 80U manage to provide surprisingly substantial passive noise cancellation, and they come with various-sized eartips, so you can find the perfect seal. Whenever I use them, I also find that cable noise is pretty muted, and they’re comfortable to wear, even for longer listening sessions.
One more thing I love about the CX 80U is their build quality. They look more premium than their price suggests, and I’m drawn to their rounded buds, slim wires, and enticing silver details. Classy.
So, if you’re on a budget but looking to get into the wired earbuds game, then it really doesn’t get much better than the Sennheiser CX 80U. Go on, give ‘em a go!
Check Point Research warns Prime Day (June 23–26, 2026) is fueling a surge in malicious Amazon‑themed domains
6,843 domains registered Dec–May; nearly 10% flagged malicious/suspicious, with June showing 1 in 13 domains risky
Shoppers urged to avoid Google searches for Amazon, verify URLs, and treat “too good to be true” deals with caution
Thousands of new domains were registered in the weeks and months leading up to Amazon Prime Day, most of which are malicious and created to steal consumer data and possibly money. This is according to a new report from Check Point Research (CPR), in which the security outfit warns about Prime Day being the perfect storm for every cybercriminal.
Amazon’s Prime Day is set to take place between June 23 and 26, 2026. During these four days, thousands of retailers in 25 countries will offer great deals on their goods and services, creating one of the biggest retail events on the planet. Consequently, they’ll also be creating one of the biggest cyberattack events on the planet, as well:
“Major retail moments bring together the three ingredients’ attackers exploit most: a globally trusted brand, time-limited urgency, and massive purchase intent at scale,” CPR warns, adding that phishing emails, fake websites, fraudulent offers, and account takeover attempts all surge during this period.
How to defend against Prime Day scams
For events such as this one, crooks prepare months in advance. CPR found that between December 2025 and May 2026, there were 6,843 new Amazon-themed domains registered worldwide, most of which were set up in April (1,446). May 2026 added another 1,267 domains.
Obviously, not all of them will be malicious, but CPR said that almost one in ten (9.2%) were already classified as either malicious or suspicious, and in the first week of June, one in every thirteen was labeled the same way.
“This pattern reflects a broader build-up of malicious infrastructure ahead of the event, with multiple Amazon-themed domains designed to exploit brand trust, urgency, and high purchase intent at scale,” the researchers warned.
To stay safe this Amazon Prime Day, always double-check the website you’re visiting, always go to Amazon's legitimate domain (https://www.amazon.com/) rather than relying on Google search results, and remember - if something is too good to be true, it most likely is.
Amazon's Prime Day starts tomorrow, but if you're itching to get stuck into the sales, I've already picked out some of the best home office deals on gear, gadgets, and office furniture right now. I've been working from home for ten years now - and I've been tracking down deals for a whole lot longer than that. So, I'm selecting all the deals I'd actually buy for work, including top-rated and top-performing products my team and I have tested.
I'll be here throughout the massive sales event giving advice on what to buy (and what to avoid), and finding unmissable discounts on everything from office chairs, desks, and printers to practical and productive gadgets you didn't know you couldn't live without. My personal favorites are Ugreen's absurdly adorable fast charging block and the Elgato Stream Deck Mini. But my number one deal is the Logitech MX Master 3S mouse for $90 - this is a beast for productivity, and the best wireless mouse we've ever tested.
Across the page, you'll find home office deals under $50 and deals under $100, as well as my recommended picks for higher-end items that every business professional needs. For more savings, visit our Prime Day tech deals hub for savings on Kindles, TVs, phones, and more.
Charge up to three devices at once with this compact 65W GaN charger, featuring USB-C fast charging, broad compatibility with laptops and phones, and a fun robot-inspired display that adds personality to your desk or travel bag.View Deal
There's a nice discount on the P20i earbuds from Anker. This is the pair I own, and I have no complaints with them, with excellent audio quality considering the low cost and dual microphones for your meetings.View Deal
This rechargeable electric air duster delivers powerful cleaning with three speed settings and a lightweight portable design. Multiple nozzles make it ideal for keyboards, PCs, cars and camping gear.View Deal
I've always liked Logitech's budget accessories - and this is a good price for both a wireless keyboard and a mouse. The keyboard is full-sized, so there's a num-pad to the right. I don't think I could live without a num-pad. View Deal
This 6-sheet crosscut shredder is a great price for those working from home or in smaller offices. it cuts through paper, cards, staples, and even features a handle for carting around multiple locations. It's available in a range of colors, but the black model is the cheapest. View Deal
This keyboard cleaning kit packs in just about everything you need to dust up and dust out your keyboard. With a range of brush sizes, it's made for getting between the keys of your board, your phone charger, and more. View Deal
Take handwritten notes without wasting paper using this reusable smart notebook, which lets you scan pages to cloud services, erase them with a damp cloth, and write again while keeping everything neatly organized and easy to access.View Deal
If your office turns into a sauna during the summer months, this lightweight wearable neck fan provides hands-free cooling with quiet operation, multiple speed settings, and enough battery life to keep you comfortable throughout the workday.View Deal
This has been one of my favorite monitor stands for years thanks to its organizational features, which includes a shelf, drawer, and two pen pots. Perfectly practical for productive home offices. View Deal
I was always skeptical of the praise Moleskine notebooks got, until I finally used one. I find the paper of a good thickness, and the overall writing experience is pleasantly smooth. This is one of the cheapest prices I've seen for these notebooks, holding 192 sheets, with an elastic closure band. It's the large variant (5x8.25in) with a soft cover. View Deal
I don't think a day goes by when I don't use my Anker wireless charging stand, which sits neatly to the side of my laptop like a sentry awaiting orders (to charge my phone). I've had no issues with this charger and it's an instant recommend from me. View Deal
Batteries are another item I always forget I need to stock up on, until the moment my mouse dies (and after several seconds of furious waggling as if I might alter the laws of physics through sheer tyranny of will). Anyway, this is a 20-pack of Duracell AAs, which I personally find tend to last longer than most other brands.View Deal
A cheap and useful way to keep your cables organized with Lamicall's desk cable clips that stick on your desk and unclip for easy access. View Deal
This is our best-tested wireless mouse. I love how customizable this comfortable, productivity-focused mouse is, which has been engineered specifically for business and creative professionals, making it a dream to use software like Photoshop and Excel.View Deal
One of the cheapest business monitors around that's actually worth your money - especially with this Prime Day deal. This 24-inch IPS panel is 1080p with a 100Hz refresh rate, and eye care modes for long sessions in front of the screen. View Deal
No home office should be without a printer, and I've always liked Brother's reliability in this arena. This all-in-one color inkjet prints, scans, and copies. It also features automatic double-sided printing and an automatic document feeder, which are essentials for productivity. View Deal
I really love my Keychron mechanical keyboard - it's an absolute joy to type on all day (I'm using it right now). What gives the V5 Max the edge against a lot of other options is that it's customizable in dozens of ways with the software, and there are keys for switching between Windows and Mac.View Deal
For business travelers who hate relying on slow and unsecure public Wi-Fi, this is a game-changer. It's an ultra-portable Wi-Fi 7 travel router that lets you stay connected on the move. View Deal
There aren't many laptop docking stations designed like this, sitting neatly under your laptop and serving up 12 different ports, including three USB-A, two USB-C, Gigabit ethernet, and triple 4K monitor support. View Deal
The compact Stream Deck Mini replaces complex keyboard shortcuts with customizable LCD keys, giving one-touch access to Zoom, Teams, Office, Photoshop and more. It supports multi-action automation, simple drag-and-drop setup and works seamlessly with both Mac and PC.View Deal
There's no way I could stay productive all day without coffee - and that's where this beauty comes in, keeping your beverage of choice warm so it's always ready for the next slug. View Deal
If you're totally over the same old black keyboards, this minimalist Mac-friendly combo from Logitech is the antidote. View Deal
For better connectivity at home or on small business premises, this Wi-Fi 6 router ticks all the right boxes. It reaches speeds up to 2402 Mbps for smoother connections during video calls. All the standard TP-Link extras for secure browsing are present, including VPN support and HomeShield. View Deal
For my money, the B100 is the best budget office chair in the sales - and that's mainly down to the adaptive lumbar support. I don't usually see this on cheap office chairs. The benefit is consistent support even when you move in your seat, reducing pressure on your lower back and helping your posture. A breathable mesh back, wide seat cushion, flip-up armrests, and adjustable recline angles round out the feature-set for all-day comfort.View Deal
With this discount, this has to be the top Prime Day pick for me so far. We awarded 4.5 stars to the Branch Ergonomic Chair in our review, and noted that it "could be the perfect office chair upgrade for you, especially if you’ve been feeling fatigued or in pain while sitting in front of a computer for long periods of time. The chair’s adjustability is a big plus."View Deal
The Sihoo Doro C300 is a superb chair for all-day comfort. When testing this chair out for his review, our reviewer Collin never experienced any fatigue even after hours of using it. I also like the fact that it has adjustable lumbar support alongside the usual adjustments and features. Buy a single unit and you'll get the discount.View Deal
An ultra-stylish office chair that blends workspace comfort with home furnishings style. We awarded this one 5 stars in our review, and found the Branch Verve is the ultimate in style and comfort. With its 3D-knit polyester mesh backrest, it's highly breathable, while the padded seat cushion and lumbar support provides all-day comfort. View Deal
For the price, which skirts just over the $100 mark, this is the standing desk I'd get in the sales. We've had great experiences with FlexiSpot standing desks, so expect the usual stability and good build quality. It's quiet in operation and height adjustable between 28.9 to 46.5in.View Deal
The Comhar range of standing desks from FlexiSpot come with a few extras some desks don't have - including a drawer, which I feel is essential for most home offices, USB ports for charging mobile devices, and child locks, making it very practical in the home. Having reviewed other Comhar models, they've all proved to be of excellent build quality and stability. But it's those extras I especially like. View Deal
This is one of my top-rated standing desks for just about any workspace. In our review, we awarded this the full 5 stars and said it delivered the "perfect balance between budget and features." it comes in a range of sizes and styles, with a height range of 28 to 47in. View Deal
This FlexiSpot L-shaped standing desk gets an attractive discount for Prime Day - if you've got the space to spare, then it's a must-buy. It's available in a range of sizes and styles, all delivering extra space for work, and has a height ranging between 28.9 and 48.2in. View Deal
I think this is a great Prime Day discount on the Envy 6555e, a solid home printer that scored 4 stars in our review. A good pick for those printing text and color documents. A top feature here is the double-sided photo printing and vibrant image quality. View Deal
Another of my favorite printers on sale right now - this is my top choice for those on a budget who want a reliable and refillable printer. This entry-level all-in-one ink tank printer impressed us in our full review thanks to its price, broad feature-set, and cheap running costs. View Deal
Smart Tank 5000 is an ink tank printer that uses ink bottle refills - and you get two years' worth in the box. This is a good option if you print a lot in the home office. It's faster than a standard inkjet printer, and you can print, scan, and copy with this model. View Deal
Earning 5 stars in our review, this 6-ink refillable model supports tabloid printing, delivers vivid results, and it's also economical to run long-term. It's especially good for those who print a lot of photos. View Deal
With print, scan, copy, and fax capabilities, this HP printer deal is tailored for office use. It also has a raft of key features like automatic two-sided printing, an automatic document feeder to speed up workflows, and HP's enhanced security for businesses. View Deal
For better connectivity at home or on small business premises, this Wi-Fi 6 router ticks all the right boxes. It reaches speeds up to 2402 Mbps for smoother connections during video calls. All the standard TP-Link extras for secure browsing are present, including VPN support and HomeShield. View Deal
For business travelers who hate relying on slow and unsecure public Wi-Fi, this is a game-changer. It's an ultra-portable Wi-Fi 7 travel router that lets you stay connected on the move. View Deal
Need better coverage in the home office? The Amazon eero Pro 6E mesh router selection have all got a discount for Prime Day - from standalone units up to the 4-pack version. You can check them all out on the same page. View Deal
This dual band Wi-Fi 7 router is ideal for small homes and home offices, reaching speeds up to 2882 Mbps. It's also packed with useful ports and features like dual 2.5Gbps ports, three 1Gbps LAN ports, VPN support, and TP-Link's HomeShield for more secure browsing. View Deal
I consider this Wi-Fi 7 router a top all-rounder for busy homes and larger small businesses, capable of hitting speeds up to 5,765 Mbps, a 2,600 sq. ft coverage. and up to 120 devices all connected at once. View Deal
This year's Amazon Prime Day runs from June 23 to 26. And, just like every year, I'll be here picking out the best deals for the office.
You can beat the sales rush now, as I've already uncovered some price drops on office furniture, printers, and some really cool gadgets that help you stay productive - and I'm expecting even more to follow once the full sale launches tomorrow.
If you only buy one thing for your office, make it this
(Image credit: Future)
Of all the office deals I've spotted ahead of Prime Day, this is my favorite by far. The Logitech Master MX 3S is the best wireless mouse we've ever tested (read our review here).
Built for boosting productivity, it's fast, smooth, and features button customization that makes working with software like Photoshop and Excel a genuine dream.
The Logitech MX Master 3S combines an ergonomic design with an 8,000 DPI sensor that tracks even on glass. Features include ultra-quiet clicks, MagSpeed scrolling, multi-device connectivity for up to three systems, USB-C charging, and battery life rated for up to 70 days.View Deal
Trump is talking to AI leaders about investing in their companies
POTUS believes "the American people will like [AI] better" as a result
AI firms might end up donating some equity into a Public Wealth Fund
The US government has reportedly been liaising with ChatGPT maker OpenAI on holding equity stakes in major AI companies, including OpenAI itself.
The move stems from an idea first raised by OpenAI CEO Sam Altman in 2025 as part of a broader concept to ensure that the economic gains from AI reflect the interest of American citizens, but discussions look to have moved forward.
Though a final decision has not been reached yet, it could involve AI companies donating some equity into a government-backed Public Wealth Fund.
Could AI companies be forced to donate equity to the US government?
Speaking on Air Force One (per CNBCreporting), President Donald Trump said his administration would consider investing in AI companies to "create almost a partnership with the American public," noting that discussions are already in progress.
"We're talking about it," POTUS added, indicating that "where the American people can benefit from the success of AI, the American people will like it better."
"It would be a beautiful thing," he declared about the partnership that would make American citizens beneficiaries of the proposed investments. "It would make 'em rich."
By linking itself financially to AI companies, the US Government could help to improve the public perception of AI and share the associated wealth with the country by means of additional funding, however critics are likely to question the potential part-state ownership of AI firms like OpenAI.
Separately, Anthropic co-founder Jack Clark told the BBC that the Claude maker is "in daily conversations with the US government and we're finding ways to be helpful to national security." Anthropic has spoken out in favor of the potential US deal.
This week is set to be a busy week for deals. Not only is Amazon hosting its annual Prime Day event, but Best Buy has its own 'Tech Fest' sale with pretty great price cuts across the board.
One such example this Acer Nitro V Slim 16 gaming laptop for the absurdly low price of $999 (was $1,299) at the retailer. I spotted this one while looking through the retailer's listings today and almost did a double-take because it's so cheap.
With the RAM price crisis, it's extremely rare to see an RTX 5070 gaming laptop for under $1,500, let alone $1,000 these days. With a price this low, there has to be a catch, right?
Well, scanning through the specs sheet, this machine is listed as featuring an 'AMD Ryzen 7 2000 Series' chipset. That's a very vague description, and if that's not a mislabelling, that could be a very, very old processor indeed.
What's happening here, I believe, is that Best Buy has incorrectly listed a modern Ryzen 7-260 chipset as an ancient 2000 series. That would explain why the 16GB of RAM featured on this machine is a more recent DDR5 version, rather than the older DDR4. If that is the case, then you're getting a really, really cheap RTX 5070 gaming laptop here.
The cheapest RTX 5070 gaming laptop I've seen today
It's been a long time since I've seen an RTX 5070 gaming laptop go for this cheap, but is this Acer Nitro V Slim 16 is hitting a rock-bottom price at Best Buy today. Almost unbelievably, I believe this one is incorrectly listed with a "Ryzen 2000 series" chipset rather than a Ryzen 7-260 since you get 16GB of DDR5 RAM. Regardless, this is a rare example of a budget RTX 5070 gaming laptop. View Deal
The above Acer Nitro V Slim 16 also comes in an Intel-based configuration, which is also a decent buy today. It's a little pricier, but you get an Intel Core 7 Series 2 chipset and 16GB of DDR5 RAM. These should, on paper at least, give you a decent boost in performance.View Deal
The price cut on this HP Omen 16 at Best Buy isn't huge, but it's still one of the best value RTX 5070 gaming laptops you'll find on the market this week. Pairing up your RTX 5070 with a powerful Intel Ultra 9 chipset means plenty of headroom for all the latest titles. Annoyingly, this machine only comes with 16GB of RAM, but you do get a spacious 1TB SSD as a bonus.View Deal
As far as Amazon devices go, its range of smart speakers are some of the most sought-after when Amazon Prime Day hits, and tend to receive great discounts.
My Echo Pop speaker is a simple device that I've been relying on for almost three years and it's still responding to my voice prompts, but has developed a mind of its own, and I think it's time to see what the Echo Dot 5th Gen is all about.
With this Prime Day deal you'll get two copies of one of the best smart speakers for the price of one, an affordable way to grow your evolving smart home ecosystem. A standalone Echo Dot 5th Gen device is currently £54.99 without a discount, so in theory, you'll be paying just £3.99 for the second device — cheaper than a Tesco meal deal without a Clubcard. View Deal
Unfortunately for US shoppers, the above 2-pack deal isn't available, but there are still offers on the singular Echo Dot 5th Gen listing. As is with a lot of Amazon devices, the deals tend to fluctuate, but this model still hasn't been able to beat its record-low Black Friday price from 2024. There's a chance the price could drop a little more come Prime Day, but we doubt it'll be anything ground-breaking. View Deal
My smart speaker has become integral to my daily life, whether that's for setting reminders to adding important events into the calendar, or playing music and radio which is more often the case. But if you're also stuck using an older device and need more of a kick out of a smart hub, this could be your sign to treat yourself.
As mentioned, it's not the newest model from Amazon, but as it stands the Echo Dot Max isn't currently discounted in the UK — it's discounted $64.99 in the US, but is still double the price of the 5th Gen model).
But what about Alexa+ I hear you ask? It turns out that you don't need to upgrade to the latest smart speaker to take advantage of Amazon's upgraded voice assistant, as it's also accessible through older Echo devices. Alexa+ is now available for user in the UK after being locked into the US for over a year, so shoppers on both sides of the pond can test it out for less.
Though you can still get Alexa+ on cheaper speakers like the Echo Pop, the Echo Dot 5th packs even more of a punch on the audio front and comes with even smarter features like new tap gestures, as well as the room temperature sensors.
Alexa+ is included with an Amazon Prime subscription ($14.99 / £8.99 a month), or it's standalone subscription is $19.99/ £19.99 a month for non-Prime members.
The Garmin Fenix 8 is a good activity watch by every conceivable metric, and rated our best Garmin watch in the premium category. I gave the Fenix 8 five stars when I reviewed it in September 2024, and I've been wearing it on and off ever since, while testing other wearables in between.
It's accurate in terms of GPS and heart rate, it's fast, it's eminently customizable, and stuffed with neat, handy features. It's got everything from some of the best navigation software I've ever used to advanced training plans courtesy of Garmin Connect. It's tough, built with titanium and either hardened Corning Gorilla or Sapphire glass, and has a battery life lasting around two weeks, depending on the model and size. It's been my daily driver, and frankly, even as a wearables and fitness tester, it's probably too much watch for me. I don't use all the features regularly, but I love big shiny Garmins.
So, two years on, would I get it in 2026? The answer is definitely yes, provided you're someone who will get the most out of it. If you love (and I mean, really love) a whole variety of outdoor pursuits, be they hiking, running, cycling, swimming, orienteering, or a combination of the above, plus other indoor fitness activities like gym sessions, you'll love this watch and consider it good value for money.
If you dabble in activity rather than living and breathing it, you might be better off saving yourself some money and buying a lower-power, lower-feature device like a Garmin Forerunner or Garmin Instinct 3. But for dedicated outdoor enthusiasts, I struggle to imagine a better watch.
If you're in the market for a new Garmin, some of the Prime Day deals (like the ones below on the 43mm Garmin Fenix 8) might look pretty appealing. However, unless you spot a particularly historic deal (say, under $700 / £600), I'd actually recommend waiting. Here's why.
US deal: $250 off the five-star Garmin Fenix 8 in its smallest 43mm size and Whitestone colorway. Perfect for those who want serious power on smaller wrists (and adventure watches are usually big, lumpy affairs), it still packs an impressive 10-day battery life, advanced training features, an LED flashlight, and full-color maps. View Deal
UK deal: £149 off the same model as the US deal above. A five-button configuration and AMOLED touchscreen mean you can operate the watch while wearing gloves in adverse weather conditions. It's perfect for hikers, skiers, campers, and triathletes. View Deal
The rumor mill is churning...
(Image credit: Future)
As we reported earlier in the year, Garmin CEO Cliff Pemble reassured investors that he expected "stronger performance in the back half of the year due to the timing of product launches" and that it would be "a very active year for outdoor". Garmin's outdoor line of watches had a high-profile refresh with the Garmin Instinct 3 release last year, so a big outdoor watch launch for 2026 is likely to mean only one thing — the Garmin Fenix 9.
The timings make sense. Two years after the Fenix 8 launches is ample time for users to get excited about a Fenix 9, just as the 8 came two years after the Fenix 7. I must admit, I personally don't think there's going to be too much change under the hood: a Fenix 9 will cost more due to the recent supply chain price increases, and is unlikely to boast an enormous performance upgrade.
However, what the new watch will do — if it launches this year — is to drive down the price of the old one, just as the Fenix 8 has done with the Garmin Fenix 7 and Garmin Epix Pro (Gen 2). These incredible watches can now be found at better-than-half their original prices, and at that sort of price cut, I'd certainly recommend the Garmin Fenix 8 over the likes of a fully-priced Garmin Forerunner 570.
So, if you're holding out for a Fenix 8, it might be prudent to skip the Prime Day deals this year and wait till a sales event in the back half of the year, such as Black Friday, in case the Fenix 9 comes along to knock the 8 off its perch.
However, don't be dissuaded from browsing the rest of the Amazon Prime Day deals, just in case you do find something you're looking for.
If you've got a Samsung phone and you're looking for a smartwatch, a Samsung Galaxy Watch is an ideal purchase — and Amazon Prime Day is a great time to buy.
While Samsung doesn't lock you into its own ecosystem in the same way Apple does — Samsung phones interface well with any of the best Android watches — having a Samsung watch enables you to access certain features like ECG scans, blood pressure estimations and camera viewfinder functionality, which only work when Samsung phones and watches are paired.
If you're in the market for a Samsung Galaxy Watch you might be tempted to get the biggest and baddest entry, the Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra, which earned four stars in our Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra review; but it isn't the Galaxy watch I'd recommend for everyone.
For one thing, it's big. Sitting on a chunky titanium 'cushion', protruding 12.1mm and weighing 60.5g, it's an obtrusive and unique-looking watch, and it certainly stands out. Without other size options (unlike the rival Garmin Fenix 8, which comes in three sizes), it's clear that it's not built with smaller wrists in mind, which means it locks out a big potential user base.
It's also a premium-priced adventure-focused watch, and the majority of Galaxy Watch Ultra owners don't use or need all of its rugged survivability extras or impressive navigation features. Yes, it can withstand knocks much better than other watches in the range, and its programmable Quick Button is useful, but most casual exercisers looking for a useful fitness tracker that also lets them screen calls and read messages will cope just fine with a less-powerful watch.
That's not to say the Ultra doesn't have its fans: if you're having an in-tents weekend (sorry) in the wilderness once a month, and you want a Samsung watch to guide you through muddy hikes and rocky scrambles, the Ultra is certainly the Galaxy Watch to get.
Check out the deals below for the best prices:
Save 15% on the Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra in all colorways, including the fetching Titanium Blue version introduced last year. While it's not the best choice for everyone, its power, longevity (up to 100 hours!) and rugged durability means it's well-made for adventurers and triathletes. Watch out, Garmin. View Deal
There's no deal yet on the Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra deal on Amazon, but we're expecting that to change as Prime Day draws closer. At present, the best deal is at Samsung itself, where you can save £50 with code WJ26.View Deal
Which watch to buy instead?
Rather than the top-tier Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra, for those looking for a Samsung smartwatch to monitor general wellness, track regular exercise and use some communications features (email, WhatsApp, call screening, music control and so forth), I recommend the Samsung Galaxy Watch8.
The Samsung Galaxy Watch8 got 4.5 stars in our review, and I labelled it "a triumph" and "unequivocally the best mainline Galaxy Watch in ages" in part thanks to its cool redesign. It retains that squircle cushion, but it's a lot thinner and more comfortable than the Ultra or the Classic, and sits nice and flush on the wrist, making it easier to wear all the time, even during sleep, to ensure you get those nice recovery metrics.
You do lose some battery life, the Dive mode, and toughness as the Ultra's titanium case is downgraded to armor aluminum, but it's almost 4mm slimmer than the Ultra, and you get the same dual-band GPS, running coach and advanced wellness features as the Ultra: body composition scanning that's accurate compared to a smart scale, blood pressure estimations, and ECG feature to check for arrhythmia.
It's available in LTE and Bluetooth-only versions, which means you can choose to pay extra to add it to a phone's data plan, or save some money and buy Bluetooth-only. The Ultra is LTE-enabled by default, so you're paying for that connectivity whether you want it or not.
Best of all, the Samsung Galaxy Watch8 is also already discounted as the Amazon Prime Day sales get closer. You can check out the best deals on it below:
A 4.5-star smartwatch with super-accurate health and activity tracking, as well as AI features. Both 40mm and 44mm versions start at $290, saving you nearly 20%. The LTE versions start at $339.99 (was $399.99).View Deal
Like the Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra, you can claim an impressive cashback deal (£75 this time) at Samsung UK using the code WJ26 at checkout. This deal is available on all options: 40 and 44mm, LTE and Bluetooth. View Deal
Sonic the Hedgehog is officially 35 years old this year
Sonic Team head Takashi Iizuka thinks he might not make it to the franchise's 70th anniversary, but will "definitely be wanting to play" future games if possible
Iizuka also says he is "really proud" of the series
Sonic the Hedgehog is officially 35 years old, with anniversary celebrations kicking off in January of this year, and to mark the occasion I sat down with Sonic Team head Takashi Iizuka to discuss all things blue and spiky in a new interview at Summer Game Fest 2026.
The veteran developer explained that he "of course" considers it almost like his own child and revealed that he has "been with Sonic longer than I've been with my own children" in real life. "I'm really proud," he said.
Right now the franchise is undeniably in a strong position, with fans impressed by the recent Sonic x Shadow Generationsremake and the support for the ongoing racing title Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds, so I was interested to find out where he thinks it will be in another 35 years.
The Japanese-speaking staff sat in the interview room immediately began to chuckle as he replied, the translator barely containing his laughter as he revealed that "Iizuka-san does not think he's going to be alive" to see it.
My suggestion that his spirit "will continue to live on in Sonic" did not help get proceedings back on track.
"The Sonic Team in Japan is a great group of people," Iizuka added after a few more titters.
"It's really because of all of the great people who are making content for Sonic that we get things like Sonic X Shadow Generations, we get things like Frontiers, we get all these great, new experiences," he continued.
"They're constantly challenging themselves, they're constantly trying to make new fun game experiences, and so 35 years from now, even if I do not believe I'm still going to be working at Sega making games, as a gamer, I'll definitely be wanting to play their experiences."
Whether you’re a longtime Pokémon fan looking to hop into recent adventures you’ve missed, a complete newcomer who wants more out of their Nintendo Switch 2, or someone excited to improve their Pokémon Champions prowess with a powerful team, this collection of gaming deals is for you.
I've been a fan of the series for years, and there's frankly never been a better time to experience it than right now with the franchise celebrating its 30th anniversary this year — take our Pokémon quiz to see if you can ace all 30 questions.
Best of all, there’s a host of discounts available on several recent, and slightly older, Pokémon titles across the US and UK. Meaning you can kick back with a new game without breaking the bank, and despite these deals cropping up during Amazon Prime Day in the US (and in the UK) these discounts aren’t exclusive to subscribers!
Soccer fans in the US are entitled to feel somewhat aggrieved. 2026 is the first time that the country has hosted the FIFA World Cup in more than 30 years. And yet, unlike in countries like the UK, Ireland, Australia and Brazil, there are no ways to watch free World Cup action if you're located within the borders of the co-hosts.
Here's the trick: you can watch every single one of the remaining games (including all of USMNT's matches) for the next best thing – just $1.
The only catch? You'll need to know your 'free kicks' and 'hydration breaks' from your 'tiros libres' and 'pausas hidratación' as the commentary and analysis will be in Spanish.
Keep reading to see how to get how to get this $1 World Cup streaming deal – and how to access Peacock from anywhere with a VPN.
How to watch the World Cup on Peacock for $1
Telemundo and Universo are the TV channels carrying official Spanish-language coverage of the 2026 World Cup in the US.
For those watching online, the Peacock streaming service is showing all 104 games with that Spanish-language feed of the Copa Mundial. You'll need at least the Premium plan, which costs $10.99 a month or $109.99 a year.
However, you can also get access to Peacock Premium by signing up to a 30-day trial to Walmart+, which costs $1!
And, with less than a month to go until the final, that means you can watch all remaining games at the 2026 World Cup for just $1.
All matches will be available to stream live and on-demand on Peacock for a limited time, with full-match replays made available shortly after each match ends.
Who is presenting Telemundo's World Cup 2026 coverage on Peacock?
Telemundo's World Cup coverage is being fronted by Carlota Vizmanos, Miguel Gurwitz and Jaime Herrera, while Andrés Cantor and Luis Omar Tapia serve as the network's main lead commentators.
They're joined by a rotating cast of reporters, color commentators and pundits, including former pros Gabriel Batistuta, Guti, José Pékerman, Antonio Valencia, Nuno Gomes, Maxi Rodríguez and Jozy Altidore.
(Image credit: Simon Bruty/Anychance via Getty Images)
What devices and platforms are supported by Peacock?
Amazon Fire TV (Fire OS 6 and up) Android (7.0 and up) Android TV (5.1 and up) Apple TV (tvOS 18 and up) Chromecast (2nd Generation and up) Games consoles (PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Series X, Series S) iOS (16 and up) Roku Selected Smart TVs Web browsers (Chrome, Edge, Firefox, Safari)
What else do I get with a Walmart+ Membership?
In addition to getting access to Peacock's extensive streaming library (see below for more details), Walmart+ also comes with a long list of other benefits:
Free Shipping: Get your Walmart.com shopping delivered within two days and for free with no order minimum needed
Free Returns: Walmart will pick up returns from your home without cost
Early Access: Be first to shop online deals during Black Friday and other sale events
Gas Savings: Members are able to save 10¢ per gallon at participating Walmart, Exxon, Mobil & Murphy stations
Free Grocery & Pharmacy Delivery: Grocery orders of more than $35 and all prescription deliveries are shipped for free
Exclusive savings: Get 25% off online Burger King orders and special rates at Walmart Auto Care Centers
Free Online Pet Care: 24/7 access to licensed veterinary experts from your phone with Pawp
What else can I watch on Peacock Premium?
Peacock Premium's vast and varied online catalog of TV shows and films combine with live sports and linear TV coverage meaning it takes a rightful place in our rundown of the best streaming services.
As well as hosting all episodes of NBC classics such as The Office, 30 Rock, Saturday Night Live and Friday Night Lights, there's a litany of Peacock Originals to enjoy like Poker Face, Ted, The Paper and Ponies. Plus, it's the home of all things Love Island USA.
Premium members can stream everything that goes out on NBC, Bravo, Dateline, Sports Now, Law&Crime and loads more 24/7 channels.
And, in terms of live sport, Peacock shows some of the biggest events from around the world. Outside of the 2026 World Cup, it also had blanket coverage of the Summer and Winter Olympics and shows every match of the 2026/27 Premier League season.
As we say, there are luckier soccer fans in other parts of the world who get to simply watch World Cup matches online for free. The following countries and streamers are showing all matches without cost:
✈️ If you're travelling abroad or can't access your usual World Cup stream because of geo-restrictions, you'll need a VPN. Our recommended option is Norton VPN (60-day money back guarantee).
We test and review VPN services in the context of legal recreational uses. For example:1. Accessing a service from another country (subject to the terms and conditions of that service).2. Protecting your online security and strengthening your online privacy when abroad.We do not support or condone the illegal or malicious use of VPN services. Consuming pirated content that is paid-for is neither endorsed nor approved by Future Publishing.
Running a one-person business means doing the job of an entire company by yourself. You're closing a deal in the morning and debugging the product by lunchtime. Every hour spent on admin is an hour not spent on the part of the business that actually grows revenue.
That's the gap a new generation of AI agents is built to close. OpenClaw and Hermes Agent are open-source tools that run in the background, hold memory of your business, and act on tasks without waiting for you to ask twice. Pair either one with a handful of supporting tools, and you get something close to a small team, for the price of a few subscriptions.
Why solo founders need an agent, not another app
Most AI tools you've used so far live in a browser tab. You open Claude or ChatGPT, ask a question, get an answer, then close the tab. The assistant stops existing the moment you stop typing.
An agent works differently. Once you set up OpenClaw or Hermes Agent, it keeps running, checking a task list, remembering what happened yesterday, and acting on a schedule instead of waiting to be prompted. For a solo entrepreneur with no employees, that difference matters more than which model sits underneath.
An agent doesn't replace you. Ideally, it should absorb the tasks that would otherwise eat your day, things like triaging support email, drafting a weekly update, or chasing an unpaid invoice. That frees you up for the work only you can do.
OpenClaw or Hermes Agent: Picking your AI co-founder
Two open-source projects dominate this space right now. They take different approaches to the same problem.
OpenClaw is the older, larger, and more battle-tested of the two. It started as a weekend project by Austrian developer Peter Steinberger in late 2025.
In February 2026, Steinberger announced he was joining OpenAI and that OpenClaw would move to an independent foundation rather than staying tied to any single company. The project's GitHub repository now sits at 373,000 stars and 77,300 forks.
Hermes Agent takes the opposite bet. It launched in February 2026 from Nous Research, the lab behind the Hermes, Nomos, and Psyche model families. By mid-June, it had crossed 190,000 stars of its own.
Instead of chasing breadth, it focuses on depth. After every task, it evaluates how the work went, turns whatever worked into a reusable skill file, and pulls from that file the next time a similar job comes up rather than reasoning from scratch.
How they measure up
OpenClaw
Hermes Agent
First released
November 2025, as Clawdbot
February 2026
Built by
Peter Steinberger, now an independent foundation
Nous Research
GitHub stars (June 2026)
373,000+
190,000+
License
MIT, open source
MIT, open source
Setup time
Under 30 minutes with Docker
A few hours for a full local setup
Memory model
File-backed, you write and edit what it remembers
Self-improving, it writes its own skills from experience
Fast setup, the largest skill library, broad channel reach
An agent that gets sharper at your repeat tasks over time
In our experience, the honest answer comes down to setup time versus patience. OpenClaw's web search and file tools tend to work immediately after a Docker setup, often the same day. A full Hermes Agent setup with memory and tools configured typically takes a few hours instead.
Start with OpenClaw if you want results fast. Choose Hermes if you're willing to spend a weekend up front for an agent that keeps improving at your specific workflows.
A growing number of operators don't pick just one. Some experienced users run OpenClaw as the orchestrator for planning and multi-step coordination, then hand fast, repeatable task loops to Hermes as an execution specialist, with the two agents communicating over a shared protocol. That setup is overkill for a first attempt, but it's worth knowing the option exists once a single agent starts to feel limited.
What this looks like in practice
The clearest public example of an agent running a one-person business is Felix, an OpenClaw agent built by entrepreneur Nat Eliason. In January 2026, Eliason gave the agent $1,000 in startup capital and its own X account, then told it to build something and sell it overnight. Felix responded by writing a playbook on how to hire an AI agent, building a website to sell it, and launching its own social presence.
Three weeks in, Felix had generated $14,718 in revenue. Within about two months, that figure had grown to roughly $177,000 across the original product, a skills marketplace called Claw Mart, and custom agent deployments built for other businesses.
Eliason still holds the API keys and reviews what the agent does. Day-to-day decisions, from pricing to outreach, run through Felix rather than through him.
Felix is an extreme case, built specifically to test how far one agent could go without a human in the loop. Most one-person businesses won't hand over a Stripe account on day one.
That's the right call for most of them. Even so, the same pattern applies at a smaller scale: give an agent its own accounts, a narrow task, and enough room to act without you checking in every hour.
Building the rest of the stack around your AI agent
An agent is only as useful as what it can plug into. Most one-person stacks pair OpenClaw or Hermes Agent with a handful of tools that already expose an API, a webhook, or an email address the agent can act through. None of these need to cost much.
Scheduling and communication
Calendly remains a common default for letting people book time on your calendar without the back-and-forth, with a free plan for individual use and paid plans starting at $10 per month. Point your agent at the same calendar so it can answer "when am I free" without you checking manually.
For day-to-day messages, the agent typically lives wherever you already work. Both OpenClaw and Hermes Agent connect natively to WhatsApp, Telegram, Slack, and Discord, so you're adding a contact to a conversation you're already having, not a new inbox to check.
Invoicing and bookkeeping
Wave and FreshBooks cover most solo founders here. Wave's core invoicing and accounting tools are free, with charges kicking in only if you use its built-in payment processing. FreshBooks costs a monthly fee but adds time tracking and client portals, useful once you start billing by the hour.
Either way, give your agent read access to the invoice list rather than write access to your bank account. Letting it flag an overdue invoice and draft a reminder is a reasonable task. Letting it move money on your behalf is not, at least not yet.
Customer relationships and leads
HubSpot's CRM is free, with no time limit on the core plan. For a founder tracking a few dozen leads, that's enough to replace a spreadsheet without adding a subscription. As the pipeline grows, the agent can sit on top of it, drafting follow-ups, logging calls, and flagging deals that have gone quiet.
Content and social media
This is where an agent earns its keep fastest, because content work is repetitive and time-stamped. Point it at your newsletter platform, whether that's beehiiv, MailerLite, or ConvertKit. Give it a standing instruction to draft, not send, a weekly update from your week's notes.
You stay the editor. The agent stays the drafter.
Contracts and signatures
For anything that needs a signature, tools like PandaDoc or SignNow handle the legal side. Your agent can handle the busywork around it instead, generating the draft from a template, sending it out, and nudging a client who hasn't signed after a few days. We'd still keep a human checking the final terms before anything goes out the door.
AI guardrails you need before you go all-in
Running an autonomous agent is not the same as running a chatbot. The security record so far reflects that. A 2026 audit of OpenClaw's skill marketplace found 341 malicious entries out of 2,857 skills checked, traced largely to a single supply chain campaign known as ClawHavoc.
A separate vulnerability, CVE-2026-25253, scored 8.8 out of 10 on the severity scale and involved unsafe automatic connection behavior that could expose authentication tokens. Cisco has publicly described personal AI agents in this category as a serious risk for enterprise environments, specifically because of how much access they're given by default. Hermes Agent has reported no known critical vulnerabilities as of mid-2026, though that partly reflects its smaller install base rather than proven hardening over time.
Three habits cut most of that risk down to size:
Give the agent its own accounts. A separate email address, a separate cloud storage folder, and separate API keys mean a mistake stays contained instead of spreading into your personal accounts.
Start with one channel and one task. Let it manage a single Telegram conversation or a single invoicing workflow before connecting it to your bank, your CRM, and your domain registrar all at once.
Keep it updated and keep it behind authentication. Both projects ship fixes quickly once a problem surfaces, but only if you're running a current version rather than an old build exposed to the open internet.
Treat the access you grant an AI agent the way you'd treat access for a new hire — useful from day one, but earned in stages rather than handed over all at once.
Getting started without breaking anything
Pick one agent and one task before you do anything else. People who've run these setups for months consistently recommend starting on the computer you already own rather than buying dedicated hardware, then moving to a small server later if the agent earns a permanent home.
Give it its own email address and a single connected channel, such as Telegram, before anything else. Ask it to handle one real task for a week: drafting follow-up emails, summarizing your inbox each morning, or chasing one recurring invoice. Once that task runs reliably without daily intervention, add the next one.
Treat the agent like a new employee rather than an extension of yourself. Give it accounts you'd be comfortable revoking, not your own logins.
That one habit prevents most of the damage a misconfigured agent could otherwise do. By the time you've added a second and third task, you'll have a clearer sense of which platform fits your workflow than any comparison article could give you, including this one.
The bottom line
Hiring your first real employee usually means payroll, onboarding, and months before they're fully useful. Setting up OpenClaw or Hermes Agent costs a few hours and, in OpenClaw's case, nothing beyond compute.
Obviously, the output won't match a skilled human on judgment calls, but for the repetitive parts of running a business, the gap is closing fast enough that a solopreneur can get their business out the door without overhiring before they are ready.
Start small, watch what the agent actually does with the access you give it, and expand from there. We've noticed the founders getting the most out of this approach aren't running the most complicated stack. They picked one agent, gave it one real job, and let it prove itself before adding the next.
Sugar season 2 has returned to Apple TV, with the pilot episode available to watch now.
Sugar is considered to be one of the best Apple TV shows and we've had a two year wait to dive back in to the sleek and sophisticated neo-noir drama series.
In the season premiere, our protagonist John Sugar (Colin Farrell) was feeling dejected because his investigation into his sister's disappearance has hit a dead end. So he picks up a new case, and this is where episode 2 will continue.
Here's what you need to know about Sugar season 2, episode 2.
What time can I watch Sugar season 2 on Apple TV?
Kirby Howell-Baptiste has a supporting role in season 2. (Image credit: Apple TV Plus)
The US can expect the second episode of Sugar season 2to be available on Apple TV on June 26 at 12am PT / 3am ET. Episodes will then drop weekly until the finale on August 7.
Internationally, look out for the below times:
US – 12am PT / 3am ET
Canada – 12am PT / 3am ET
UK – 8am BST
India – 12:30pm IST
Singapore – 3pm SGT
Australia – 6pm AEST
New Zealand – 8pm NZDT
When do new episodes of Sugar season 2 come out on Apple TV?
Today, Cloudflare has announced a joint initiative with Mozilla Firefox, Google Chrome, and Microsoft Edge to launch a new internet protocol designed to verify if web access is legitimate or malicious - without intruding on user privacy.
Private Access Control Tokens (PACT) will act as anonymous tokens that verify legitimate access by both humans and authorized agents without the need for user logins or CAPTCHAs that cause friction and harm the browsing experience.
Cloudflare establishes PACT with web browsers
To start, PACT won’t deny access to automated traffic completely. According to Cloudflare, the protocol is designed to recognize legitimate access from certain bots. As consumers and businesses turn to new automations provided by AI agents, there is still a legitimate case for allowing certain bots to access websites.
For many AI agents, there is still a human at some point in the loop with a real reason for accessing a website. PACT offers an anonymous “personhood” token that is attached to the user’s browser. This token uses “trusted information from contexts that have authentic relationships with people” to verify legitimate access “while keeping that information private.”
StatCounter places the combined market share of Chrome, Firefox, and Edge at around 77%, meaning that the PACT protocol will likely roll out to the majority of internet users.
“PACT will further empower businesses to identify genuine visitors, ensuring they can focus their resources on the traffic that matters to them,” CloudFlare said in the announcement. “Using PACT on Cloudflare’s network raises the bar for trustworthiness and integrity online without the traditional costs.”
“In commerce, every extra challenge, delay, or false positive can turn a purchase into an abandoned cart. Merchants need effective protections against automated abuse, but buyers shouldn’t have to pay for them with unnecessary friction or invasive tracking,” said Ilya Grigorik, Distinguished Engineer at Shopify.
“Shopify is proud to help develop PACT as an open, privacy-preserving standard that can help the millions of businesses on our platform distinguish legitimate shoppers and authorized agents from abusive traffic while preserving buyer privacy."
500k+ hours of Ukraine war drone footage to be used for AI training
Real-world data provides deeper context and higher quality than synthetic data
Ukraine officials believe in a "war of operating systems" where training data matters
Virginia-based AI firm Enabled Intelligence says it's added more than 500,000 hours of Ukraine war drone footage to its EView platform to help train models.
The real-world data is hoped to provide better-quality training to the computer vision and video analysis models, instead of having to rely on synthetic data, in a bid to improve the efficacy of AI-powered drones in modern warfare.
"It’s footage from one of the most complex and dynamic conflicts in modern history," CEO Peter Kant explained (via DefenseScoop), noting that the training data hasn't come from a simulated or controlled environment.
Ukraine war drone footage used to train AI drones
Kant explained that footage will help train models across "aerial object detection, vehicle classification and ground activity," and that it's pre-labeled, validated and ready for training use. It gives the models more experience handling changing conditions like weather, smoke, dust, damaged infrastructure and other dynamic environments.
Artificial intelligence has broadly changed how militaries benchmark weapons, because it's no longer about who has the best drone. Dataset quality is an even bigger differentiator when it comes to autonomous warfare.
As for the Ukraine war's role in the training dataset, it marks one of the most drone-intensive wars to date with thousands of drones operating daily and generating huge amounts of real-world data.
The evolution also highlights an emerging competitive advantage for certain countries – those involved in conflict early on in AI's timeline can generate enormous amounts of real operational data before enemies, putting them one pace ahead.
"The system that possesses more data and better understands that data, proposes solutions — that system will gain the advantage over the other," head of Ukraine's defense ministry's AI center Danylo Tsvok told Reuters, referring to a future where we could see a "war of operating systems."
If you're looking to pick up a Grand Theft Auto 6 pre-order once they go live later this week, then you'll need a console to play it on. If you're currently sticking with a last-generation system like the PlayStation 4 or Xbox One, then you'll need to upgrade in order to play.
With no word of a port yet, PC gamers will also need to get their hands on a system if they want to play day one. Luckily, the Amazon Prime Day deals and other retailer sales events make now a fantastic time to pick up a console.
In the US, for example, you can buy a PlayStation 5 Slim with some exclusive Fortnite content for lower than its regular price, while UK shoppers can net a free copy of Ghost of Yotei with a discounted limited edition bundle.
US console deals and bundles
Right now a third-party seller at Best Buy is offering the PS5 Slim Fortnite Flowering Chaos Bundle for a bit less than the price of a regular PS5 Slim right now. This nets you the 1TB console, plus some Fortnite bonus content.View Deal
If you're after the PS5 Slim Digital Edition, then the Fortnite bundle is again the way to go, as it costs the same as just the regular console thanks to this Best Buy sale. Do bear in mind you're only getting 825GB of storage and, of course, no disk drive with this one.View Deal
If you're after an Xbox Series S, then this $20 saving at Amazon is the way to go. This is the 512GB version of the console and comes in much cheaper than a PS5. You are losing a decent chunk of performance, though.View Deal
The PS5 Pro will likely be the definitive system for GTA 6. It's the one to go for if you want the very best performance, though you will struggle to find any discounts bigger than this $0.99 Amazon saving in the US right now. Maybe one to watch over Prime Day.View Deal
Prices on the regular Series X are pretty poor right now, so I'd recommend going for the 2TB Galaxy Black Special Edition version if you're after one. It boasts a massive storage upgrade and a cool design, but has lesser performance than the similarly priced PS5 Pro.View Deal
UK console deals and bundles
Newcomer UK retailer JoyBuy has an absolutely mega discount on the PS5 Slim, shaving more than £130 off its regular price when you include the £30 off spend of over £199 coupon that's available right now. View Deal
This PS5 Slim bundle is ridiculous value and is currently listed for less than the regular PS5. It nets you a copy of Ghost of Yotei in addition to a special edition console and controller design. It's a no-brainer if you're buying a PS5 right now.View Deal
The PS5 Pro is currently available for well below its £799.99 UK RRP over at EE. With £45 off compared to that RRP, this is the best place to get your hands on the console that will undoubtedly offer the best way to play GTA 6 when it launches.View Deal
Very is currently offering the best price I can find in the UK for the Xbox Series X, with £20 off its regular rate. I think the PS5 is better value right now, but this is still a good option if you're wedded to the Xbox ecosystem.View Deal
I'm still using my Apple Watch SE 2, and while it's an easy-to-use device that gets me through my day I was bitterly disappointed to learn that Apple is shutting it out of the upcoming watchOS 27 rollout, along with a slew of other devices.
Luckily, Amazon Prime Day is just around the corner and there are already early deals on the best Apple Watches. If you're in the same boat as me and want to get a kick out of watchOS 27 but your device is being shunned, stay put.
The best part about these early deals is that each of Apple's new wearable models have a discount in some shape or form. For me, the Apple Watch Series 11 tops the list not just because it's now $279 down from $399 (£317 in the UK), but because it sits perfectly between the basic Apple Watch SE 3 and the advanced Apple Watch Ultra 3, both of which are also discounted ahead of Prime Day.
Why does having watchOS 27 matter? I can see most people getting by quite fine with watchOS 26, but for me it's a huge revamp for the smartwatch experience. For starters, the new Siri AI comes to your wrist, and although EU restrictions will delay its arrival, there are other upgrades to look forward to like its redesigned app grid and its added Workout Buddy insights.
In addition, watchOS 26-only watches will only get security updates from hereon out, becoming increasingly out of date as future upgrades arrive each year.
Best US Apple Watch deals
For one of Apple's latest smartwatches, $120 off is more than generous, especially if you're looking to upgrade for watchOS 27 support. The thing with this particular Apple Watch range is that they love to fluctuate in price on Amazon every month or so. This is the first time this month the Apple Watch Series 11 has dropped in price, but its unlikely it'll get a better reduction come Prime Day itself. View Deal
As far as Apple's basic smartwatch range goes, not only is the SE 3 a speedy upgrade from its predecessor (it has the same chip as the Ultra 3) but it has the firmware to support watchOS 27. For less than $200, you can benefit from core fitness tracking features as well as the neat new tools that are on the way, which includes Siri AI, all while not having to spend a shedload on an advanced model if you know you won't need all the nitty gritty bells and whistles. We named this as the best Apple Watch for most people, a safe and inexpensive option. View Deal
Are you a Garmin user who wants to try something different? The Apple Watch Ultra range is a solid Garmin rival if a) you like using your smartwatch without having to keep your iPhone nearby, and b) you know you'll want to get a kick out of its plethora of extreme sports features. As predicted, this model has seen another price drop just before Prime Day, hitting a record-low discount. View Deal
Best UK Apple Watch deals
Just like its US equivalent, shoppers in the UK can pick up the Apple Watch Series 11 for the same price, and its price history is similar. This device likes to yo-yo in price so it's difficult to tell when the next price drop will occur, so it may be worth scoring it now while you can, especially if you don't like to take risks when it comes to Prime Day. View Deal
This is the lowest price we've seen the SE 3 hit in the UK, but this is another listing that has a history of jumping between high and low price points. As mentioned earlier, we recommend the SE 3 for users who want a just-above entry level device, and the upside is that it will support watchOS 27 when it drops later this yearView Deal
Luckily for UK shoppers, this is the lowest price for one of Apple's latest and most advanced wearables. With that in mind, waiting around for another Prime Day price drop may not be the best idea if it's already record-low ahead of the big event. View Deal
It's hot. Really hot. And it's getting hotter. Much hotter. Send help!
Yes, in case you hadn't noticed, the UK is in the grip of another heatwave, this time courtesy of a heat dome — a trapped area of high pressure — pushing up from the Sahara desert and settling over Europe.
The Met Office has issued a rare red warning for heat and it's quite possible we'll see the UK's hottest ever June day, with the record currently standing at 35.6C but predicted to reach 39C over the next few days.
It's a particular problem at night, with temperatures expected to be at or above 20C even in the early hours, and as we all know, UK houses are built to keep warmth in, rather than let it out.
Fortunately, there are ways to keep cool even during these kinds of temperatures — and that's where we can help. We've got a ton of advice for you on how to cool your home, plus recommendations for the best fans to buy and other appliances that can help you chill (literally and figuratively).
Plus, as luck would have it, the heatwave coincides with Amazon Prime Day — meaning you can pick up some home-cooling tech for a bargain price.
Prime Day officially begins tomorrow (Tuesday, 23 June) and right now there are not many deals to be found on our favourite fans. But there are a couple on sale, and we expect more to drop in price once we get past midnight.
Beyond that, we've also included our top picks that aren't currently on sale, because you may decide that it's worth paying full price to get some relief from the heat — and right now, we'd agree.
This small yet powerful desk fan is a great buy while it's dropped below £30 for Prime Day. While its smaller size means it won't be the most powerful option out there, it does mean it'll easily fit on a side table or your desk and keep you at a comfortable temperature.View Deal
With £30 off at a range of retailers, the Whisper 2 is back down to its lowest price. This pedestal fan is powerful, operates quietly, and comes with two-axis oscillation. Plus, it looks good. View Deal
Fans are pretty utilitarian by nature, and even some of the more stylish modern options are pretty plastic-y; that's why I love Russel Hobbs more industrial loft-style floor fan, which is currently £12 off for Prime Day. View Deal
We've had a lot of hot weather lately, so I think we'd all appreciate having a quality fan on hand. This pedestal model from the top brand Dreo is a good option. Handy features include nine speed options, 120-degree oscillation, and ultra-quiet operation so you can run it at night in the bedroom to keep cool.View Deal
It reached over 30 degrees in some parts of the UK this week, so I was very glad to have this fan ready for the heatwave, as it solves all the problems I had with other cheap fans. It's powerful and quiet, even on a low to medium setting, blasting out enough cool air without disturbing sleep. I've found that the portability is a huge plus, too. You can use it as a standard tower fan, either plugged into the mains or go cordless for up to 24 hours. View Deal
You may be thinking about upgrading your fan after the recent heatwave, so here's a great low price for the excellent Shark FlexBreeze HydroGo. This portable fan works both indoors and outdoors, weighs under 2.1kg, is easy to carry, and has cooling technology that produces ultra-fine droplets for a refreshing mist. With up to 12 hours of cordless run time, you can use it just as easily by your bed as you can in the garden.View Deal
Dyson's first handheld fan sold out almost instantly last month, so if you're tired of feeling sticky and uncomfortable, this is your opportunity to grab one and enjoy a cooling breeze anywhere. Only the Stone/Blush colorway is available.View Deal
Another hand fan to watch this Prime Day is Shark's brand new 3-in-1 ChillPill, which earned a solid score of 4.5 stars in our recent review. Now, it's not on sale right now, but in years prior Shark has stunned us with some fantastic deals even on its newest products; let's see how this misting, cooling and fanning device fares this week. View Deal
Suitable for use indoors and out, this cordless fan is a great choice for everyday and on holidays. I love a Shark fan, and the good reviews on its quiet operation and efficient cooling have the TableMate looking like another great example. View Deal
The Pro Mist is the most hardcore option in the FlexBreeze lineup, because it comes with the mister attachment and an integrated water tank included. That means it's all set up to envelope you in a cooling cloud whenever and wherever you want.View Deal
It's quite a different prospect from the tabletop DeskMate, but if you want room-wide cooling, this Govee Smart fan is a top choice. You get 12 wind speeds and 5 special modes, plus app and voice control. We awarded this fan's shorter sibling 4.5* in our Govee Smart Tower Fan review. View Deal
It can blow hot or cold, making it an excellent air quality device year-round. Its lowest-ever price was £269, so keep an eye out for a Prime Day discount. Still, for the ultimate cooling experience, it's well worth it. Read more in our Dyson Hot + Cool AM09 review. View Deal
Loved by Amazon customers far and wide, Levoit extends its air care products from the best air purifiers to fans, and this one in particular earned praise for its low noise level and good cooling capacity. This smart fan offers 12 fan speeds, four modes, can be controlled with the VeSync app or voice control.View Deal
Earning a fantastic 4.5 stars when we reviewed it, govee's fan currently holds the title of our best smart tower fan, so we're very happy to see it included in the deals this Prime Day. View Deal
This is an award-winning fan; specifically, the Quiet Mark, which makes it perfect for use in the bedroom or office. Its multi-directional oscillation is great for cooling the whole room, and it's a lot better looking than your usual desktop fanView Deal
A relatively new release, the HydroGo comes in a range of cute candy colours and boasts a misting attachment for a chilly blast while you're out and about in hot weather.View Deal
This is a genuinely excellent fan – the exact model that's saved some of our team from several sleepless nights in the recent heatwave, in fact. It can be used like a traditional fan, or as an air circulator to amplify the cooling effect of a separate cold air source. View Deal
Prime Day deals — Portable air conditioners
If a fan just isn't cutting it, a portable air conditioning unit is a reliable way to actually lower temperatures in your home. Unfortunately, portable AC units all-but sold out now. Below, you'll find the ones still in stock (for now), plus a couple of permanent options, if you fancy getting serious and splashing a bit more cash. We'll update this section with more options if we find any.
A quick PSA on how to choose: for portable units, the spec to focus on is BTU — this stands for British thermal units, and the higher the BTU, the larger the room the unit can cool. Ideally, we'd recommend looking at models with 10,000BTU or above, unless you're only cooling a very tiny room.
Dreo is a trusted name in the aircare world, and this AC unit boasts 12,000 BTU of cooling clout. It's a bit more expensive, but it looks like a stellar option — we're surprised it's still in stock. The only down-side we can see is that delivery isn't until early-mid July. View Deal
This smaller AC unit is only rated 7,500 BTU, which means it's better suited to small rooms. It could still make a big difference in an overly-cosy bedroom, though. It's well-reviewed and comes from respected brand Dreo. Unfortunately, you'll have to wait until after the current heatwave for delivery — but, let's face it, there's going to be another one before too long. View Deal
Okay, this one's not portable. But if you happen to be in search of a more permanent solution, there's £150 off this Toshiba unit at Currys, and there's installation by British Gas Trusted Partners included in the price. View Deal
Another pricey-but-permanent option, with a small discount to ease the pain. It comes with silent and quiet modes, an A++ energy rating, and installation is included in the price. View Deal
Prime Day deals — Kitchen appliances
Fans aren't the only way to cool down, of course — you can also whip up something frosty in the kitchen.
Below, you'll find a selection of TechRadar-recommended appliances to make cooling drinks or treats, and some of them are already on sale ahead of Amazon Prime Day.
Back at its lowest-ever price at Amazon, the Cuisinart Frost Fusion is a solid competitor to Ninja's various ice cream makers, offering fast frozen drinks and soft-serve ice cream with 6 modes and a slim profile to keep your kitchen counters clear. With £100 off, it's a steal for Prime Day.View Deal
In June, the Creami Scoop and Swirl dropped to its lowest-ever price of £265 at Amazon, so this £80-off deal is a pretty close call for the best deal we've seen on one of our top summer picks. We scored it 4 stars in our review, praising its delicious results, ease of use, and 13 different settings. View Deal
At less than £100, Sodastream's latest streamlined beverage carbonation station is a great way to keep things cool during the impending heatwave if, like me, you get bored of water easily. It's the first time we've seen an Amazon deal on this particular model, so a £60 discount is nothing to sniff at. View Deal
For the price of four Starbucks iced lattes, you can have cool caffeination at home in less than four minutes. It's not something we've personally tested, but with 2000+ customer reviews on Amazon and a 4.3-star rating, it seems a pretty popular gadget. At almost its lowest-ever price (£17.97 in 2024) this is a steal. View Deal
This weather makes an ice-cold drink extremely appealing right now, and the unique Ninja Slushi just fell back to its Black Friday price at Amazon. This kitchen appliance makes all sorts of chilled and frozen drinks, including juices, cocktails, milkshakes, and more. We loved it in our Ninja Slushi review, praising its ability to make quick and delicious drinks easily in a fun and entertaining package.View Deal
I'm a little tempted by this over £20 price reduction on this well-scoring blender. While it can't chop ice, it creates velvety smoothies out of fresh and frozen fruits hassle-free. On top of this, the build quality and performance impressed us, and the fact that it's even cheaper than it was on Black Friday makes this an even sweeter deal.View Deal
This is one of the first deals we've seen for the new Ninja BlendBoss, so a £35 price cut is a pretty solid start. We scored this small but mighty blender 4.5 stars in our review, praising its convenient integrated 26-ounce travel tumbler and powerful blades, making it perfect for a quick cool smoothie ahead of a busy day in the heat. View Deal
Hello and welcome to TechRadar's Beat the heat live page.
I'll be honest: I HATE hot weather. Seriously, I'm not built for anything above about 18C — the only individual who copes less well with these kind of temperatures is my Labrador (don't worry, I've given him doggie ice cream and his own fan).
Anyway, I have a vested interest in finding the best deals on cooling appliances and sharing great tips for cooling off. So stick with me and we'll get through the next few days together without melting…
These fans won't keep you awake
(Image credit: Future)
Let's start by talking about sleep — because if you're anything like me, you'll find it almost impossible to get decent shut-eye when the mercury rises.
The tricky thing is that sleeping in the heat is hard enough anyway, but even fans themselves can be a problem if you struggle to doze off when there's too much background noise.
If you're in the market for a fan, you'll likely find yourself having to choose between a tower and a pedestal option. A pedestal is what you probably think of when you think of a fan: a round fan head on a skinny stand. A tower fan is the kind tall, oblong-shaped fan that lives permanently in a corner of a room. Each has its pros and cons — this article gets into it in detail, but the short version is that tower fans tend to win on space efficiency and modern design, whereas a pedestal fan is typically more portable and adjustable.
Stay sun-safe
Homes editor Cat Ellis here. This isn't my usual remit, but I wanted to quickly remind you that Amazon Prime Day is a great time to stock up on sunscreen. There are already some early Prime deals on Nivea Sun products for kids, including 25% off SPF 50+ cream for sensitive skin.
If you're researching fans, a term that you might see cropping up is 'air circulator'. This is a type of fan, but rather than being designed to blast air a long way in one direction (like traditional fans do), it's built to shift air widely around a larger space. This means it's especially good for amplifying the effects of a cool air source. So, for example, if you have a not-great AC unit and pop an air circulator next to it, it should help cool the room much more quickly and efficiently than the AC would manage on its own.
I'm keeping my fingers crossed for a price cut on Meaco's range of air circulators tomorrow, when Prime Day officially kicks off. I borrowed one during the last UK heatwave and it was amazing, particularly at night when it was almost silent while it pulled cool air at night, making it far easier to sleep. I borrowed the 10in Meaco Sefte Pro, which you can operate with your phone, but the whole range is excellent.
Josephine Watson, Managing Editor of Social and Engagement here (and ex-Homes Managing Editor.)
Now, Amazon's calling this a 20% discount on Ninja's viral Creami ice cream maker, but unfortunately, this is a classic case of Prime Day smoke and mirrors: in fact, the Ninja Creami was cheaper just a few weeks ago!
Worse yet, it's actually cheaper right now directly from SharkNinja's online storefront, where it's currently £169.99. The lowest-ever price we've seen at Amazon was £149.99, so here's to hoping holding out for a few more days will mean even greater prices on one of my favorite kitchen appliances.
(Image credit: Amazon / Future / Edited with Gemini)
Another from Josephine here. The first thing in my basket this year for Prime Day is Breville's Iced Coffee Maker. Cheap and cheerful at £21.99 (was £46.99), this single-serve gadget is perfect for my itsy-bitsy kitchen where countertop space is at a premium. It costs less then my weekly spend at Starbucks, too, so the long-term savings stand to be pretty significant!
(Image credit: Future)
While it's not yet on sale, Dyson's new HushJet Mini Cool is one to watch this Prime Day, scoring a full five stars in our recent review, and we wouldn't be surprised if it sold out regardless of any discounts. It's £99, which is actually cheaper than Shark's alternative, the ChillPill (at £129.99), but don't hold your breath for a major discount this week; it's unusual for an all-new Dyson device to see a hefty price cut so soon after a product's release.
I tried it while filming our video review a few days ago and cor blimey, is it powerful. A little shrill, perhaps, on higher settings, but it gave me my iconic Beyonce-hair-in-the-wind moment, so I'll take it.
Snag the Dyson HushJet Mini Cool while stocks last: now £99 at Amazon
Can fans cool down a room?
You can find some of our top fan recommendations (including a few deals) above, but the question is... do they really work to cool down a room?
Well, the answer is no... but yes, kind of. It's all about the placement strategy and how you pair them with other cooling devices; we answered all your burning questions around whether or not fans can cool a room.
One fan I've got firmly in rotation this year is the Shark FlexBreeze; I love that it converts between pedestal and tabletop mode, the misting attachment is great, and it's pretty powerful while keeping the volume down low, earning it 4.5 stars in our review.
The need for advice here has a wet turn
A truly tropical storm has hit some parts of the UK now, taking the edge off the heat by dumping about a foot of rain in the space of an hour, but delivered sideways by strong winds, and all punctuated by giant thunderstorms.
If you, like several of the TechRadar team, got caught in the storms then you may not be focused on cooling so much now as drying. I can recommend the Meaco DD8L dehumidifier, if you need one…
The good news is that it should making dealing with overnight temperatures a lot easier in these areas – if you can blast this cooler air, with a residual breeze, through your bedroom before you head to sleep, it should help make things more bearable.
There's an air con in stock!
You 're hard pressed to find portable air cons in stock right now, but we've just spotted one, so don't hesitate if you're tempted!
In heat like we're facing, a portable air conditioner can be the key to sleeping well. Portable air cons won't be able to cool the whole house, but you can keep your bedroom at a nice reasonable temperature throughout the day and nice, and that can make all the difference.
OALABS analyzed a novice attacker’s full working directory showing 14 breaches carried out with Claude Code and Codex agents
Attacker used vague prompts; AI agents handled reconnaissance, exploit writing, and data harvesting, bypassing guardrails with ease
Logs revealed attacker’s identity and location in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
A newbie cybercriminal managed to break into 14 organizations and steal sensitive data, just by using Anthropic’s Claude Code and OpenAI’s Codex agents. This is according to cybersecurity researchers OALABS, who recovered and analyzed the attacker’s entire working directory.
The researchers used this news as yet another proof that advanced Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI) models are significantly lowering the barrier for entry into cybercrime, and to sound the alarm that the security community needs to step up.
“In many cases, the attacker supplied only vague, low-skill prompts and allowed Claude to fill in the gaps: researching exposed services, identifying possible vulnerabilities, writing exploit code, validating access, and harvesting data,” the researchers said. “The attacker did not need to be an expert operator; they simply had to use the correct framing for their prompts. The agent supplied much of the structure and technical execution that the attacker appeared to lack.”
Doxxing the attacker
OALABS could not find evidence that the stolen data was monetized in any way, either by being sold on the dark web, or by extorting the victim companies. They did, however, find numerous pieces of evidence about the attacker’s identity and whereabouts.
According to the researchers, the attacker did not run the AI agents on his own infrastructure, but rather on a third-party server, and when that third party discovered malicious activity, they downloaded the entire working directory and shared it with the researchers.
“Because the agents were local to the host, their full session logs were recovered, including the attacker’s prompts, the tools used, the internal monologue of the large language model (LLM), and any policy violations recorded during the sessions,” the researchers said.
OALABS was thus able to analyze more than 1,000 agent sessions, seeing how the attacker was able, with ease, to bypass most of the agents’ guardrails. Among the sessions were also the threat actor’s CV with his full name, location, education history, and LinkedIn profile, as well as his IP address which showed that he was located in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
The software works with rooms of all shapes and sizes
Helps identify the right place for speakers and acoustic panels
Free for one room, but furniture analysis requires payment
If speakers are sonic superheroes, then their arch-enemies are the rooms we put them in: poorly positioned speakers or oddly shaped abodes can ruin stereo and spatial audio setups by delivering badly located, boomy or otherwise unfortunate audio. But now a new website is offering to help you find the perfect place to put your speakers and any acoustic panels to compensate for any room irregularities.
The website is Roomtreatment.diy, and it uses multiple methods to predict how sound will bounce around your space. It can then identify what treatment is necessary and where it should be positioned.
How does Roomtreatment.diy analyze your audio?
Posting on Reddit's r/acoustics, the site's creator FerencS explains that the analysis is based on splitting low and high frequencies, and then identifying the "excitability" of each part of the room. The simulation can also identify how much audio will be reflected or absorbed by other items in the room. The models have been tested against a dozen real measured rooms to make sure that they're as lifelike as possible.
There's no doubt that rooms and placement change what you hear; I've just had to redo a bunch of mixes because I hadn't compensated for my monitors being too close to the wall and making the bass more prominent. And while this website is a work in progress — for example it doesn't model soundbars just yet — it's already very impressive.
The site has clearly been made for people who aren't necessarily audio experts: when you first create your room it asks what issue you're trying to deal with, whether that's boomy, uneven bass, an off-center stereo image, muddy or smeared details or "it just feels off". There's much more detail if you want it, so for example when you select a particular speaker setup it'll tell you what frequencies to listen for in terms of mid-bass "honk", as well as tell you about potential sound stage issues and other unwanted effects.
The app's room creation is free to use, but you're limited to a single room, it doesn't take panels or furniture into account and you can't use the audio preview feature to hear how the room would sound with the selected setup. Paid users can choose between $19 to unlock everything for one room, $29 for two or $49 per month for unlimited rooms. That last one's for professional use rather than home use.
Thinking of buying a new TV?
Try our TV size and model finder! You tell it how far you sit from your TV, we'll tell you what size to buy based on viewing angle advice from image quality experts, and we'll recommend our three top TVs at that size for different prices.
A Microsoft Outlook update for Mac has broken email replies
Users are struggling to load replies
The issue impacts Outlook for Mac version 16.110, build 26061317
If the update to Microsoft Outlook released last week has some you scratching your head, wondering where the previous email replies have gone, you’re not alone.
An update to the email provider last week has caused previous replies to disappear, and a fix is yet to be released.
The error seems to be confined to Mac users running version 16.110, build 26061317. The only known fix at the moment is to switch back to the previous version of Outlook for Mac, and (temporarily) disable automatic updates.
Update breaks replies on Outlook for Mac
Multiple users have shared their frustrations on Microsoft’s Tech Community and Learn forums, stating that the lack of replies is impacting their ability to properly reply to emails, or to forward email chains on to colleagues.
Luckily, there is a way to get around the issue which was helpfully pointed out by a Microsoft Forum moderator. By rolling back to the previous version of Microsoft Outlook for Mac, replies and email chains are restored. But you will have to turn off automatic updates to prevent Outlook from upgrading again to the broken version.
How to roll back your Microsoft Outlook for Mac
Navigate to Update history for Office for Mac using this guide
Revert your Outlook to version 16.109.3 or older using the steps provided here
Turn off automatic updates on Legacy Outlook for Mac by navigating to Help > Check for Updates, and then uncheck ‘Automatically keep Microsoft apps up to date’
Once a fix is rolled out, don’t forget to re-check the automatic updates
Until an official fix is released, this appears to be the only way to load replies on Outlook for Mac. Any updates from Microsoft will be posted here.
If your organization has certain administrative barriers enabled, you may not be able to remove the current version of Outlook.
There's less than 24 hours to go until Prime Day, but you don't have to wait to score some record-low prices on top-rated Apple tech. Surprisingly, the retailer has dropped these stunning deals on AirPods, iPhones, and Apple Watches early, so I'd scoop up these rare price cuts while you can.
One early Prime Day deal that's a real highlight is the Apple AirPods 4 (with noise cancellation) for £125.40 (was £169). I'm actually quite shocked that this lowest-ever price for the brand's latest buds has been made available for Prime Day, especially when a discount like this is usually saved for Black Friday.
There was also a record-low price of £617.97 for the new MacBook Neo, but that offer seems to have vanished for now. Perhaps someone pressed the button a little too early, and maybe it will be back when the sale fully kicks off at midnight.
Those would be my top two picks, but there are several other standout Apple deals from Amazon's Prime Day sale. Check them out below, just remember that you need to be an active Amazon Prime member to buy them. You can get a 30-day free trial to access the deals if you're not currently signed up.
6 of the best Apple Prime Day deals at Amazon UK
This is a new record-low price for Apple's newest buds. The AirPods 4 feature a new design for all-day comfort and pack Apple's H2 chip, which supports personalized spatial audio and voice isolation. You also get a redesigned case with 30 hours of battery life and support for USB-C for wireless charging. Just be aware that this cheaper version does not support active noise cancellation, so it may be worth paying the extra to get that benefit with the deal below.View Deal
Willing to spend a bit more? Amazon's early Prime Day deals feature the AirPods 4 with active noise cancellation for their lowest price ever. These AirPods 4 feature a new comfortable design, handy controls, and Apple's H2 chip, which supports personalised spatial audio and voice isolation. There's also that all-important ANC to block out distracting noises and outside sounds, which is great when you want to focus at work or are commuting.View Deal
Apple's newest premium buds feature improved Active Noise Cancellation, outstanding audio, a comfortable in-ear design, and new features such as live translation and heart-rate tracking. These do-it-all buds offer excellent audio quality and top-tier noise-cancellation. Today's deal is the best price you can find on Apple's newest AirPods, and a new record-low price.View Deal
The latest MacBook Neo is down to a record-low price at Amazon ahead of Prime Day. This brand-new and fantastic laptop packs a 13-inch Liquid Retina display, an A18 Pro chip, 8GB of RAM, 512GB of storage, and up to 16 hours of battery life, all for close to £600. This latest model was already a best seller at full price, but now the well-rated laptop is a bit of a steal with almost £100 off.View Deal
This four-pack of the best-selling Apple AirTags is on sale for 15% off for Prime Day. These are a great way to keep track of keys, your phones, a child's backpack, luggage, or any other possession you'd rather not misplace. The AirTag can be attached to anything you don't want to lose, and your iPhone will locate it or send out a ping so you can track it down.View Deal
Here's a new record-low price for the Apple Watch SE 3. Apple's cheaper smartwatch is currently our pick for the best Apple Watch to buy if you're on a budget, as it delivers a full health and fitness tracking experience, all the convenient on-wrist features you need, and that familiar Apple style, but at a fraction of the price.View Deal
The AirPods Max use an Apple-designed dynamic driver to provide high-fidelity audio — and they sound fantastic for it. Exceptional active noise cancellation, personalised Spatial Audio, and Dolby Atmos support all reinforce that. They feel good on your head as well, thanks to the knit-mesh canopy and memory foam ear cushions, so you can easily wear them for the full 20 hours of battery life if you ever want or need to. Grab them now for a record-low price.View Deal
Apple's best value iPhone ever is now an even better buy as it drops to its lowest-ever price for Prime Day. We dubbed it "the best standard iPhone in years" in our 4.5-star review, as it brings a lot of the features often saved for Pro models to the baseline version. You also get speedy performance thanks to the A19 chip, a big and bright display, and excellent cameras.View Deal
The high-end iPhone 17 Pro Max has fallen to its lowest-ever price at Amazon. We gave this premium handset an impressive 4.5-stars in our review for its stellar performance and fantastic cameras. Quite simply, if you demand a lot from your phone, this is easily one of the best you can buy right now.View Deal
The newest MacBook Air M5 is here, and it just got its biggest discount yet on Amazon. Our reviewer called it "the best ultraportable I've ever used" and awarded it 4.5-stars, so it's every bit as good as its already excellent predecessor. As well as the powerful and efficient M5 chip, the latest MacBook Air boasts a slick 13.6-inch Liquid Retina display, 16GB of RAM, and a 512GB SSD as standard. Those are solid overall specs for all-around use, productivity, and creative tasks.View Deal
The newest MacBook Air M5 is here, and the larger 15-inch model is now on sale for Memorial Day at Best Buy. Our reviewer called the smaller 13-inch version "the best ultraportable I've ever used" and awarded it 4.5-stars, so these devices are every bit as good as the already excellent predecessors. As well as the powerful and efficient M5 chip, the latest MacBook Air boasts a slick 15-inch Liquid Retina display, 16GB of RAM, and a 512GB SSD as standard. Those are solid overall specs for all-around use, productivity, and creative tasks.View Deal
The latest Apple Watch 11 back to its lowest-ever price in the latest Best Buy sale. The thinnest Apple Watch yet, with a wraparound LTP3 OLED display, it's a great-looking watch with Apple Intelligence-powered smarts and a boosted battery compared to previous Apple Watches, clocking in at 24 hours of average use. View Deal
The Apple iPad A16 is down to its lowest-ever price since Black Friday in this week's event, so it's worth taking advantage of if you have an eye on the latest Apple slate. The biggest upgrade compared to the previous generation model is the latest A16 chip for faster performance. You also get double the storage of 128GB as standard, a sharp 11-inch Liquid Retina display, and solid 12MP front and back cameras.View Deal
There's a decent $50 saving on the latest iPad Pro 11-inch at Best Buy, but that's a little shy of the record-low $899 we saw on Black Friday. This is still a pricey tablet, but you do get the brand-new M5 chip, high-quality tandem OLED display and 256GB as standard. Expect this to be one of the better offers we see on the tablet until later in the year.View Deal
Retail fraud used to be relatively straightforward.
A stolen card, a fake account, or a suspicious transaction pattern that could be flagged and blocked before serious damage was done.
That version of fraud is still present, but it is no longer the main problem.
What’s appearing now is something more coordinated, automated, and harder to detect in real time: AI-powered fraud rings that behave less like individual bad actors and more like distributed systems.
They test, adapt, and scale in more sophisticated ways that increasingly mirror the technologies retailers themselves are adopting.
Fraud is no longer just responding to ecommerce; it’s evolving alongside it.
From isolated fraud to coordinated systems
For years, fraud prevention has largely focused on individual events: a suspicious login, a stolen card attempt, a bot probing checkout flows. But that model is breaking down.
What is now emerging is coordinated fraud activity that behaves more like a network than a series of isolated incidents. These groups combine automation, synthetic identities, and increasingly realistic AI-generated content to simulate genuine customer behavior at scale. The result is not only more fraud, but fraud that blends into normal digital traffic.
At the same time, fraud rings are executing high-velocity attacks that look more like engineered systems than opportunistic crime. One recent example involved an estimated $4.2 million in fraudulent activity over 48 hours, driven by synthetic identities, spoofed devices, and rapid transaction flows reaching around 180 per minute.
What is notable is not only the scale, but the structure. These are not isolated attempts. They are coordinated operations designed for speed, repetition, and adaptation.
AI is lowering the barrier to fraud
The most important shift is accessibility, as well as scale. Generative AI has significantly lowered the barrier to entry for fraud. Tasks that once required technical expertise or coordinated effort can now be executed using widely available AI tools.
Fraudsters can generate synthetic identities, fabricate supporting documents, and create convincing digital artefacts that simulate legitimate customer behavior in a matter of minutes. This includes everything from account creation to behavioral patterns across browsing, purchasing, and post-purchase interactions.
One of the clearest examples is the rise in returns abuse, which has increased by 15% in the past six months, largely driven by the ease and scalability of AI-doctored images.
In practice, this means fraudsters can submit highly realistic images of cracked, damaged, even moldy, or malfunctioning goods. These images are often convincing enough to pass initial review processes, particularly when combined with legitimate order histories or stolen account credentials.
In several documented cases, fraud rings have used newly created accounts to purchase low-cost goods, then submitted AI-generated images to claim refunds without returning the product. In some instances, empty boxes are shipped back instead, all while refunds are still processed.
Another coordinated operation targeting home goods and fashion retailers used a similar approach at scale, generating approximately $800,000 in fraudulent refunds through repeated low-value claims designed to avoid detection thresholds.
Individually, these cases may appear manageable. But collectively, they show a clear trend: fraud is increasing in sophistication and scale.
The shift toward agent-driven commerce
The next phase of this evolution is already on its way, and it’s closely linked to the rise of autonomous digital agents.
Over the second half of 2025, agentic activity surged by over 2000%. While much of this growth is tied to legitimate use cases such as shopping assistants and automated customer workflows, it also introduces a new layer of complexity for fraud detection. The same systems that allow agents to complete purchases on behalf of consumers can also be manipulated to automate fraud on a larger scale.
Instead of manually creating accounts or placing orders, fraudsters can now orchestrate entire attack chains using agent-based automation. This changes the nature of fraud from individual actions to continuous, self-executing systems. This matters because it shifts the detection problem. When fraud resembles legitimate automation, the distinction between genuine and malicious activity becomes harder to define using traditional rules.
At the same time, retailers are already seeing fraud patterns adapt to this environment. Attackers are increasingly mimicking normal customer journeys, spreading activity across devices, accounts, and timeframes to avoid detection. The result is a system where fraud does not look like fraud until after the fact.
Why traditional fraud tools are falling behind
Most existing fraud detection infrastructure was not designed for the current conditions as they stand. They rely heavily on static rules, historical patterns, and known indicators of malicious activity. But AI-led fraud doesn’t necessarily follow predictable patterns. It adapts in real time, varies its behavior based on changes in the attack surface, and can scale in ways that overwhelm rule-based systems.
Even machine learning models trained on historical fraud data struggle when faced with synthetic behavior that has no direct precedent. This creates a widening gap between how fraud actually operates and how it is detected.
Consequently, many retailers are forced into reactive positions, identifying fraud after fraudulent transactions have already been completed rather than preventing it in real time. This is particularly challenging in areas like returns and refunds, where fraud is often indistinguishable from legitimate customer claims at the point of interaction. The core issue lies in timing alongside detection accuracy.
What comes next for digital trust
The trajectory of fraud is closely tied to the progression of ecommerce itself. As AI agents take on a larger role in how consumers find, compare, and buy products, retailers face a more complex question than simply whether a transaction is legitimate.
They need to determine who, or what, is actually behind the transaction. Is it a real customer? A legitimate AI assistant acting on their behalf? Or a synthetic system designed to imitate both?
The challenge now is no longer just detection, but judgment in real time. Because in an environment shaped by AI on both sides of the transaction, risk and verification can no longer sit at a single point in the process. They must be continuously reassessed throughout the customer journey.
This article was produced as part of TechRadar Pro Perspectives, our channel to feature the best and brightest minds in the technology industry today.
The views expressed here are those of the author and are not necessarily those of TechRadarPro or Future plc. If you are interested in contributing find out more here: https://www.techradar.com/pro/perspectives-how-to-submit
You typed a few prompts into an AI tool and watched it build something that works. Maybe you've shown it to early users, or pitched it to investors who got excited about the demo. Now you're stuck on the harder question: is this thing actually safe enough to put in front of real customers?
The tools that got you this far were built for speed, not durability. Production means real payment details and real consequences when something breaks at 2 am.
This guide walks through the steps that close that gap, from auditing what the AI actually built to choosing where it finally goes live.
Why prototypes break once real users arrive
A vibe-coded demo and a production application can look identical on screen and still be entirely different things underneath.Veracode's 2025 GenAI Code Security Report tested output from more than 100 large language models and found that 45% of the code samples introduced a known security flaw.
Some of that risk has already turned into real incidents. A 2025 flaw in the AI app builder Lovable, tracked as CVE-2025-48757, left more than 170 live applications with exposed databases because the AI-generated backend skipped row-level security checks. A separate platform, Moltbook, leaked 1.5 million authentication tokens through improperly secured API responses.
Security isn't the only failure mode, either. In mid-2025, an AI coding agent on Replit deleted a live production database belonging to SaaStr founder Jason Lemkin, wiping out records for more than 1,200 executives and nearly 1,200 companies during an active code freeze.
None of this necessarily means AI-generated code is unusable. It means the gap between "it works on my screen" and "it works for everyone else" needs a deliberate process to close.
1. Audit what the AI actually built
Before changing anything, read through what you have. Open every page, every API route, and every database table, and get an honest picture of what's solid and what's held together with good intentions.
You're looking for a few patterns in particular. Business logic that lives inside front-end components instead of a proper backend layer, database tables with no clear ownership rules, and features that were quietly removed but left their API endpoints active are the most common issues vibe coding tools leave behind.
Pay close attention to your data model at this stage. Schema problems are simple to fix while you have a handful of test users, and expensive to fix once thousands of real accounts depend on the structure staying the same.
Check your dependencies while you're in there. AI coding tools tend to pull in libraries without explaining why. A project can end up with three different packages doing the same job, with none of them checked against known vulnerability databases before launch.
2. Close the security gaps first
Security should come before new features, not after. AI coding tools optimize for what works, not what's safe, so the gaps they leave are predictable and worth checking in order.
Start with secrets. GitGuardian's State of Secrets Sprawl report found that 28.65 million new credentials were leaked on public GitHub in 2025 alone. Most of those stay valid for years after they're exposed.
Search your codebase for API keys, database passwords, and tokens written directly into files, then move every one of them into environment variables that never reach the browser.
Authentication and authorization come next. Security researchers at Invicti have found that AI-generated apps repeatedly ship with authorization checks that are missing, weakened, or applied inconsistently across endpoints. The Cloud Security Alliance recommends verifying that every API route checks for a valid session before it does anything, and that user-supplied input gets sanitized before it touches a database query.
A short list to work through before you go any further:
Every secret lives in an environment variable, never in client-side code
Every API route checks who's calling it, not just whether they're logged in
Database tables have row-level security or equivalent access rules, not just a flag that says it's enabled
Form fields and URL parameters are validated server-side, not just in the browser
Error messages shown to users don't leak stack traces or database structure
3. Set up real environments and version control
Most vibe-coded projects deploy straight to a single live URL, with no separation between testing and production. That setup works fine for a demo. It's also exactly what turned a routine mistake into the Replit database incident described above.
Set up at least two environments before you go further: a staging copy where changes land first, and production, which only gets updated deliberately. Most major tools, including Lovable, Bolt, and Replit, support exporting your code to GitHub, which gives you version history and a way to roll back a bad change in minutes rather than hours.
If you're not ready for a full CI/CD pipeline, even a simple two-question habit before every deployment helps: Did I test this in staging? Do I have a recent backup?
The point isn't bureaucracy. It's about having a way back if a change goes wrong.
4. Test beyond the happy path
AI tools are good at building the path you describe and bad at anticipating the one you didn't. Testing a vibe-coded app means deliberately trying to break it, not just confirming the obvious flow works.
Share the app with a handful of real users early, before every feature is polished. One founder building on Convex Chef found that users balked at an "anonymous login" pattern the AI had quietly baked into the architecture, a problem that would have been a quick fix at the prototype stage and a major refactor once real accounts depended on it.
Beyond user feedback, check what happens when two people edit the same record at once, or when an API call times out halfway through. These edge cases rarely show up in a demo. They're exactly what production traffic finds within days.
You can use the same AI tool that built the app to help write these tests, since describing a failure scenario in plain language is no different from describing a feature. Ask it directly to find the weakest points in what it built rather than only asking it to add new features, since those are different prompts with different incentives.
5. Choose your deployment and hosting setup
Most vibe coding platforms offer one-click hosting on their own subdomain, which is fine for sharing a demo and limiting it for a real product. Lovable, Bolt, and Replit each let you keep that built-in hosting or export to your own infrastructure on Vercel, Netlify, or a server you control.
The decision usually comes down to control versus convenience. Built-in hosting means faster updates and no DevOps work, but custom domains and SSO are often paid add-ons. You're also tied to that platform's uptime and pricing.
Exporting your code means more setup work upfront, but it gives you a portable codebase that doesn't disappear if the platform changes its terms or shuts down.
Portability also varies a lot between tools. One comparison of vibe coding platforms ranked v0 and Lovable as having the least platform lock-in thanks to standard React code and two-way GitHub sync, while some other builders couple your app more tightly to their own hosting and database setup. Check this before you build anything you intend to keep.
6. Monitor, back up, and plan ahead
Once you're live, the work shifts from building to watching. Set up basic logging so you can see what broke and when. Make sure error messages reach you rather than disappearing into a console no one checks.
Backups matter more than most people realize until they need one. Test your restoration process before you need it for real, not after. The Replit incident only ended well because Lemkin was eventually able to recover his database manually, after the AI agent first told him that recovery wasn't possible at all.
A practical pre-launch checklist
Area
Before you launch
1.
Secrets
No API keys or passwords in client-side code; everything sensitive lives in environment variables
2.
Access control
Every API route checks authentication and ownership, not just login status
3.
Database
Row-level security or equivalent rules are active and tested, not just enabled
4.
Environments
Staging and production are separate, with version control in between
5.
Backups
Automated and tested by restoring from one at least once
6.
Testing
Edge cases, concurrent use, and failed requests have been tried, not just the main flow
7.
Hosting
You know whether you're staying on the platform's hosting or exporting, and why
Vibe coding tools shrink the cost of building software, often by an order of magnitude. Independent estimates put a professional rebuild of a successful vibe-coded prototype at roughly $5,000 to $30,000, compared with $75,000 or more for an equivalent app built from scratch by an agency.
But that gap is worth paying once your app handles money, health information, or any data covered by regulation. It's also worth paying once you're adding features faster than you can verify they're safe, or once "I don't know why this works" becomes a regular answer to your own questions about your own product.
FAQs
Do I need to rebuild my app from scratch?
Usually not entirely, most teams keep the front end, and user flows the AI-generated, since that's often the strongest part of the prototype. They then rework the backend logic and data layer underneath. A full rewrite is rare unless the data model has fundamental problems that can't be patched.
Is a platform's built-in hosting secure enough for real users?
It can be, but the default settings usually assume a demo, not a production app with customer data. Treat the security checklist above as mandatory regardless of where you host, since the platform handles infrastructure but rarely guarantees that your specific app is configured safely. The Lovable incident referenced earlier happened to apps hosted on the platform's own infrastructure, not exported code, which shows that convenient hosting and safe hosting aren't automatically the same thing.
How much does productionizing actually cost?
For a simple app, expect a few thousand dollars in hosting, monitoring, and a security review. For anything handling payments or sensitive data, professional hardening tends to land between $5,000 and $30,000 depending on how much of the original code survives the process. That's still a fraction of the $75,000 or more a traditional custom build typically costs, which is the real argument for starting with vibe coding rather than against it.
How do I know if my app is ready to go live?
If you've worked through the security checklist, tested beyond the happy path, and have a tested backup and rollback plan, you're in better shape than most vibe-coded apps reaching production today. If any of those three are still missing, that's the next thing to fix before launch, not after.
If you've been having trouble with Reddit and X today, you're far from alone — but Downdetector now suggests that their issues are fixed, or at least close to recovery.
X and Reddit were the biggest hit by what appeared to be cloud infrastructure issues, according to Downdetector — with over 30,000 and 2,700 reports at their peak respectively.
Several other apps and services, from Zoom to Canva and Fortnite, also saw spikes in reports earlier today, but similarly seem to have recovered.
No official cause for the issues was reported or announced, but here's how they played out...
A series of big spikes
(Image credit: Downdetector)
Right now, X is seemingly the worst hit by today's issues, with almost 36,000 reports on Downdetector. But Reddit is also seemingly struggling for many in the US, with over 3,000 reports.
This may well be a cloud infrastructure outage or issue, because we're seeing more minor spikes across a range of services, from Zoom to Fortnite and Canva. Is this related to a service Cloudflare or AWS? It isn't clear yet, but we'll find out soon.
Is this cloud related?
(Image credit: Downdetector)
Given how many services are showing spikes in reported problems right now, there's a good chance this is all related to cloud infrastructure issues.
We're currently seeing smaller spikes on Downdetector for Cloudflare and AWS, though there's no official confirmation that either are having major issues.
However, Cloudflare is now experiencing "increased error rates" as of 10.20am ET / 3.20pm BST, so that could be a potential cause given the likes of X and Reddit are known to use it for their cloud-based content delivery.
X is still struggling for many
(Image credit: X)
X appears to be on the mend, but it definitely isn't its usual self. We're currently able to see the Trends section, but have no feed.
Reddit seems to be faring better, with reports on Downdetector now down to around 365 in the US (down from just over 3,000 half an hour ago).
Those are promising signs, but hopefully they aren't a false dawn — and a number of other services like Zoom and Fortnite continue to show a significant number of reported problems.
When in doubt, turn to William Shatner — the actor has captured what many have been experiencing with a post on X showing the "posts aren't loading right now" error message.
But how did he post his reaction when X is down? Well, the site is seemingly recovering from its wobble, with reports now down below 10,000 in the US, so I'm feeling confident that normal Shatner service will resume soon.
A return to normality...
Good news, it looks like the issues that hit X, Reddit, Zoom and more today were just a minor blip — and this isn't going to be a repeat of a major outage like the big Cloudflare incident of November 2025.
We don't know for certain if the large spike in reported issues today was Cloudflare-related, but the cloud infrastructure giant did confirm it was investigating a problem earlier — and now says "a fix is being implemented".
That fix seems to be doing the trick for many services, according Downdetector — but I'll continue to keep an eye on them, just in case.
Cloudflare says it isn't to blame
Cloudflare has told us it isn't at fault for today's issues on X, Reddit, Zoom and more.
"We don’t see any Cloudflare global outage currently. The only issue we’re aware of is that Zayo, a network provider, is experiencing an outage on some of its network routes," a spokesperson told us.
"That may cause some sites using Zayo exclusively to be unreachable, whether they use Cloudflare or not. We are seeing evidence Zayo’s network is recovering and expect any errors to be short lived," they added.
The mystery continues, then, but fortunately all of the reports on Downdetector for those sites are back down to baseline levels, so everything appears to be back to normal.
Argentina vs Austria in Group J of the FIFA World Cup 2026 will feature Lionel Messi seeking to break yet another record in an already astonishing career. The Argentine genius drew level with Miroslav Klose on 16 all-time tournament goals with his opening round hat-trick – another strike today in Dallas and he goes clear on his own.
Messi's hat-trick as Argentina beat Algeria 3-0 didn't just tie him with Klose as the tournament's deadliest marksman, it was also the Flea's first World Cup treble. Anyone who saw the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner's performance against the Fennecs would not bet against him breaking the record here, but Messi & Co. will prioritize a win that guarantees safe passage to the last 32. The little maestro turns 39 on Wednesday but if he continues in this form, Lionel Scaloni's defending champions will take some stopping.
Austria also made history in their opening game, as a 3-1 win over World Cup debutants Jordan gave them their first victory at the finals since 1990. Marko Arnautovic, another golden oldie, helped secure that slice of history with a late penalty that doubled as his maiden World Cup goal, aged 37. The win against Jordan takes the pressure off Austria to get a result in their toughest game of the group stage – in a stadium that will surely be rooting for Messi to break the record – but that may play into the hands of Ralf Rangnick's side as they seek a first knockout fixture in 44 years.
So, read on as we show you exactly how to watch Argentina vs Austria for free from anywhere in the FIFA World Cup 2026.
Argentina vs Austria: Team News
Argentina XI: E Martinez; Molina, Romero, Lisandro Martinez, Medina; De Paul, Mac Allister, Fernandez, Almada; Messi, Lautaro Martinez.
Austria XI: A Schlager; Posch, Danso, Alaba, Laimer; Seiwald, X Schlager; Schmid, Wanner, Sabitzer; Gregoritsch.
How to watch Argentina vs Austria for free
Argentina vs Austria is available to watch for free in multiple countries, including the UK, Australia, Brazil, Belgium, Ireland, Netherlands, Switzerland and Turkey.
Abroad? Can't access your free stream? Unblock your free World Cup stream with Norton VPN — more on that below.
Use a VPN to watch Argentina vs Austria live streams
It’s the World Cup, and if you’re traveling, you might discover your usual Argentina vs Austria stream is suddenly unavailable due to geo-restrictions.
Don’t worry, that’s exactly where a VPN can help. A virtual private network lets you connect to servers around the world so you can securely access your usual World Cup coverage as if you were back home.
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How to watch Argentina vs Austria in the US
US viewers can watch Argentina vs Austria on Fox and Telemundo (Spanish comms).
Those looking for a streaming service instead can watch Argentina vs Austria on Fox One (3-day free trial). Telemundo is available via Peacock as well.
Visiting the US from the UK? You can still watch your World Cup stream for free thanks to Norton VPN (try for 60 days).
How to watch Argentina vs Austria in the UK
UK customers are in luck as they can stream Argentina vs Austria for free on the BBC. Live coverage is on BBC One and BBC iPlayer.
You require a TV license and a valid UK postcode for an account (e.g. SE1 7PB).
Norton VPN can unlock your stream if you're abroad today.
How to watch Argentina vs Austria in Australia
(Image credit: free)
Argentina vs Austria will be shown for free in Australia on SBS On Demand.
The streaming platform has every game of the tournament for free, making it the perfect place for your World Cup viewing.
Traveling for work or on holiday? A VPN like Norton VPN can help unlock your free stream.
How to watch Argentina vs Austria in Canada
(Image credit: Other)
In Canada, TSN will be broadcasting Argentina vs Austria.
You can live stream via the TSN+ streaming platform, which costs CA$8 per month or CA$80 per year.
Outside of Canada? Use Norton VPN whilst you're traveling away from home to unlock your stream.
Argentina vs Austria: Match Information
What time does Argentina vs Austria start?
Argentina vs Austria kicks-off at 6pm BST / 1pm ET on Monday, June 22. That's 3am AEST on Tuesday, June 23 in Australia.
Goalkeepers: Alexander Schlager (Red Bull Salzburg), Florian Wiegele (Viktoria Plzen), Patrick Pentz (Brondby).
Defenders: David Affengruber (Elche), Kevin Danso (Tottenham Hotspur), Stefan Posch (Mainz 05), David Alaba (Real Madrid), Philipp Leinhart (SC Freiburg), Phillipp Mwene (Mainz 05), Alexander Prass (TSG Hoffenheim), Marco Friedl (Werder Bremen), Michael Svoboda (Venezia).
Midfielders: Xaver Schlager (RB Leipzig), Nicolas Seiwald (RB Leipzig), Marcel Sabitzer (Borussia Dortmund), Florian Grillitsch (Braga), Carney Chukwuemeka (Borussia Dortmund), Romano Schmid (Werder Bremen), Christoph Baumgartner (RB Leipzig), Konrad Laimer (Bayern Munich), Patrick Wimmer (VfL Wolfsburg), Paul Wanner (PSV Eindhoven), Alessandro Schopf (Wolfsberger AC).
Forwards: Marko Arnautovic (Red Star Belgrade), Michael Gregoritsch (FC Augsburg), Sasa Kalajdzic (LASK).
Group J Table
Position
Team
GD
Points
1
Argentina
3
3
2
Austria
2
3
3
Jordan
-2
0
4
Algeria
-3
0
Can I watch Argentina vs Austria on my mobile?
Of course, most broadcasters have streaming services that you can access through mobile apps or via your phone's browser.
You can also stay up-to-date with all of the key World Cup moments on the official social media channels on X/Twitter (@FIFAWorldCup), Instagram (@FIFAWorldCup), TikTok (@FIFAWorldCup) and YouTube (@FIFA).
We test and review VPN services in the context of legal recreational uses. For example:1. Accessing a service from another country (subject to the terms and conditions of that service).2. Protecting your online security and strengthening your online privacy when abroad.We do not support or condone the illegal or malicious use of VPN services. Consuming pirated content that is paid-for is neither endorsed nor approved by Future Publishing.
"You can take the MacBook back. I don’t have the patience to learn a new thing," said my wife as she slid the MacBook Neo back across the kitchen counter.
It was the unceremonious end to a two-week-long experiment in which I encouraged my wife, a decades-long Windows user, to give Apple a try, more specifically, the flavor of Apple found in a lovely, citrus MacBook Neo.
Look, I am no pusher. Ever since I started testing the $599 laptop, my wife had been eyeing it. She was becoming Mac curious. This had a lot to do with her creaky Microsoft Surface Pro 4, a decade-old system that would soon face the dreaded end of Windows 10 security updates (no TPM 2.0 on that old Surface Pro).
As a realtor, she kind of loved the old girl. It ably ran all of her Web-based business software, handled emails, basic art needs for whipping up new listing sheets, and social media materials. She also knew, however, that it was almost time for an upgrade. We both wondered if the affordable and mid-range-powered MacBook Neo could ably step in for the Surface Pro.
My wife even told me that, if she went with the MacBook Neo, Cirtus would not be her choice; the blush looked rather nice. Of course, Citrus is what I had on hand, so that's what she got.
I told her that, while different, macOS would not be completely foreign. Sure, it moved some things around, but my wife was no Luddite; she picked up new tech pretty well.
One thing about her, though, should have been a warning: she hates change.
Taking the macOS plung
Simply buying her a MacBook Neo — even if there are some nifty Prime Day Deals right now — without knowing if she'd take to it made no sense, and since I'd been testing and using this on-and-off for months, we decided to set her up with it as if she'd bought the system brand new.
I reset the MacBook Neo. It's a $699 model with Touch ID and 512GB of storage, and I told her that this would likely be the one we would buy anyway since I wouldn't want her to run into storage issues.
Next, we sat side-by-side as I walked her through the setup. She took to this part quickly, though I realized that the placement of Touch ID on the power/sleep button was non-obvious. When I told her to register her finger to unlock the laptop, she stared at the system for a few seconds, clearly looking for something with a fingerprint symbol.
You're on your own
The MacBook Neo is in stock with all colors at Amazon today, with a small price cut, too. The latest MacBook packs a 13-inch Liquid Retina display, an A18 Pro chip, 8GB of RAM, 256GB of storage, and up to 16 hours of battery life, all for under $600. It's no wonder this latest model is already proving to be a bestseller.
For the next couple of weeks, I would watch her slip the laptop into her work bag or use it at the dining room table. I did catch her occasionally trying to tap the screen, which was unsurprising. After all, she'd spent a decade with a touch-screen convertible. I'd ask her how it was going, and she'd give me a slightly less-than-enthusiastic "OK".
At work, she said she struggled to connect to the office printer and finally had a coworker step in and help her.
When she was at home, I showed her how to add her OneDrive account to access work files, a move that seemed to both confound and confuse her. The Windows system automatically integrates the drive. For the Mac, there's an app and then a few steps.
Even the benefits I found in adding a Mac to my Apple ecosystem were lost on her: "Why do my iPhone notifications keep popping up on the MacBook? That's annoying."
I kept waiting for that moment, the epiphany that triggered, "Why didn't I make this switch years ago?"
It never came.
Why do my iPhone notifications keep popping up on the MacBook? That's annoying.
She found the need to use two fingers to enact right-click functions confusing and didn't seem all that thrilled with the trackpad.
It was clear she appreciated the MacBook Neo design, and yet, she told me, “It’s nice and sleek and all of that, but I could get a new PC that’s nice and sleek and all of that."
As we walked through a Best Buy looking at both MacBook Neo and a bunch of comparable Windows machines from Lenovo, HP, Dell, and Acer, it was clear that the MacBook Neo had not won her over.
After she returned the system, my wife told me that she just couldn't get used to all the differences. Why was the control center at the top? Why did the dock look like that? How could they not have a Start button?
For the average Mac user, like myself, there were all good reasons for these design elements and placements, but, having been a switcher myself, I understood the confusion. Working on a MacBook after 30 years on Windows means you are living in a constant state of "Who moved my cheese?" And when you, as my wife does, have important work to get done, you can't have a system's quirks getting in the way of your productivity.
Getting real
None of this is a commentary on the still excellent MacBook Neo, but it does say something about a certain class of users who, while Apple might try to attract them with the affordable MacBook Neo, are unlikely to make the switch.
The reality is that the best market for the MacBook Neo is still the back-to-school market, where it will likely have an easier time of swaying kids who've used Chromebooks or have only been on iPads.
They'll become Apple's newest customers. As for aging Windows users, getting them to make the switch might be more than Apple can or should hope for — even with the appealing MacBook Neo.
Processor: Snapdragon X Elite RAM: 32GB Storage: 512GB
One of the best deals on the entire Dell site is undoubtedly this discount on the latest Snapdragon-equipped Dell XPS 13. This stylish and lightweight machine is perfect for those who want battery life and performance in a premium package. This particular configuration also includes 32GB of RAM, which is a very rare thing indeed these days at this price. Note, this is a Snapdragon chipset model, however, so make sure all your obscure apps are supported.View Deal
Apple's latest base iPad is on sale for $299, which is only $15 more than the record-low price. The most significant upgrade for this model versus the previous generation is the newer A16 chip for faster performance, but you'll also get double the storage as standard (128GB instead of 64GB). Other features include a sharp 11-inch Liquid Retina display and solid 12MP front- and rear-facing cameras, making this iPad the best iPad for casual streamers and scrollers.
You might have noticed that recently the cost of upgrading (or building) your PC has skyrocketed, and this is mainly due to the pressures an explosion in AI has caused to supply chains, with artificial intelligence companies demanding an increasing amount of memory, which has had knock-on effects for the rest of the world.
That means memory-based components, especially SSDs, RAM and graphics cards, have become more costly.
The good news is that due to early Amazon Prime Day sales, I've found some brilliant offers on large SSDs, such as the WD_Black SN7100 2TB NVMe SSD and Samsung 990 PRO SSD 2TB NVMe M.2.
The reason why I love these deals (which I've included below) is that these aren't just cheap drives from companies you've never heard of; the likes of Samsung and Western Digital are highly trusted brands in the storage world, and that's important when looking for an SSD or hard drive, as you'll be storing important files and documents, so you need to know that your new drive won't break in the future, potentially losing your files.
These SSDs also use the NVMe M.2 ports of your PC — most modern PCs, including laptops, support these SSDs and they offer incredible speeds. Pop Windows 11 on there and it'll boot up in seconds, while installing apps or games means they load incredibly quickly as well. Before buying you should check that your PC has a spare M.2 port if you want to add one of these drives to your existing storage.
If you're replacing an existing SSD or hard drive, then you should see a huge increase in speed, especially if you're using a hard drive.
Another thing I love is that these deals prove you can still get large capacity storage for a relatively affordable amount — something many of us feared would no longer be possible until the memory crisis, sometimes dubbed the 'RAMpocolypse', is over.
Unfortunately, the memory crisis is far from over, so deal events like Prime Day might be our best shot at getting affordable SSDs for our PCs for now — and because these are in such high demand, I recommend grabbing these deals ASAP before they sell out.
AI agents are reshaping how enterprises automate work, but their effectiveness depends on access to sensitive systems and data.
The paradox is that granting them the permissions they want creates new attack surfaces that organizations aren’t yet equipped to handle.
This is the defining tension of the AI era.
AI agents are proliferating across enterprises with 91% of organizations already using them yet only 10% have a clear IT management strategy in place.
This gap matters because as these systems grow more autonomous and more deeply embedded in workflows, enterprises are operating without clear visibility, meaningful oversight and control over how their AI agents behave.
The access problem
Our recent research revealed how agents running on OpenClaw, an open-source AI agent automation platform, could expose credentials and leak sensitive information when attackers compromised the communication channels controlling them.
To appreciate the scale of this risk, we must first understand the platform itself. OpenClaw combines a chatbot-style interface with access to external tools and large language models.
Users can then configure agents to browse the web, read and write files, manage inboxes, execute commands, or interact with other machines. In many cases, they’re designed to operate autonomously with minimal human oversight.
That level of access is what makes agents powerful, helping many to manage everyday admin and time-consuming tasks. However, this power is a double edged-sword and can make them a risk to businesses.
When agents become attack surfaces
Agents need access to tools, accounts, applications, the web and more to be useful. Often, this means an agent needs access to secrets: API keys, personal access tokens, credentials, .env files, OAuth tokens.
The agents/models are by default prompted to be as helpful as possible, and that characteristic starts to pose some particular concerns when it comes to credentials and tokens. If an agent such as OpenClaw can’t access a resource, it will ask for credentials right in the chat, exposing those secrets within the context window. Agents will happily store API keys in their unencrypted configuration files, which information-stealing malware is starting to target.
Remote access capabilities could effectively create a back door into enterprise environments. If an attacker gained access to the communication channel controlling an agent, such as a messaging or remote access platform, they could potentially gain access to everything the agent itself could access. In an enterprise context, this is a nightmare.
The paradox of recognized risk
Perhaps the most revealing finding was that some agents recognize risky behavior while simultaneously carrying it out. This underlines how their decision-making ability and autonomous operations can be a business risk.
In one test, an agent correctly identified that exposing an OAuth refresh token through an unencrypted communication channel represented a serious security violation. But it then proceeded to share the token anyway before expressing concern about its own decision.
Organizations should not rely on the invisible guardrails that frontier model providers put around agents. They’re easily circumvented.
But an AI agent cannot divulge credentials that it doesn’t have access to. This is why the conversation around AI agent security cannot focus solely on stronger guardrails. Attackers are already finding ways to manipulate agent behavior through prompt injection, social engineering, and compromised communication channels.
Governance, not just guardrails
AI agents are essentially identities within enterprise systems and need to be managed as such. They perform actions and make operational decisions in ways that increasingly resemble human employees or privileged service accounts. Yet many organizations are deploying these systems without applying the same governance standards.
Most businesses already understand the importance of least-privilege access, audit logging, identity management, and access reviews for employees. AI agents should be subject to the same principles. That means limiting what agents can access, avoiding long-lived credentials wherever possible, and ensuring sensitive information is stored securely through centralized systems with human oversight.
Organizations also need visibility into where agents are deployed, what tools they can interact with, and how to disable them quickly if something goes wrong. If an agent goes rogue, there needs to be a “kill switch,” a way to immediately revoke an agent’s access to resources and shut it down.
Agentic AI systems could deliver major operational upsides, but deploying them without robust identity and access governance introduces significant security risk. As these systems become more deeply embedded across enterprise environments, organizations must stop treating them as experimental tools and start governing them as part of the digital workforce.
This means managing the full lifecycle of agents, from knowing which agents are deployed, what resources they access to and keeping a full audit trail so no one can say, “I don’t know what happened. The agent did it.”
There’s no reason why conventional security wisdom, such as the principle of least privilege, lifecycle management and robust logging, should be thrown out in an agentic age. In fact, it’s more relevant than ever.
This article was produced as part of TechRadar Pro Perspectives, our channel to feature the best and brightest minds in the technology industry today.
The views expressed here are those of the author and are not necessarily those of TechRadarPro or Future plc. If you are interested in contributing find out more here: https://www.techradar.com/pro/perspectives-how-to-submit
Pucker up for I Kissed a Girl season 2, the all-Sapphic reality dating show that starts off shallower than Love Island but gets surprisingly earnest as it goes on. We've been waiting two years to return to the masseria – so don't miss the sizzling UK premiere. Abroad? We'll show you how to watch I Kissed a Girl season 2 in the US, Australia and beyond.
10 lusty singletons get I Kissed a Girl 2026 underway, including self-described “little gay fairy” Ebony, “kid in a candy store” Lindsey and “raging lesbian” Elisha. Two by two, they're introduced to each other with a good old-fashioned bit of snogging, and from then on in it's up to them to try to make things work or run wild.
Only, it's never quite that simple. Host Dannii Minogue drops in from time to time with contrived 'chemistry tests', themed parties and group dinners all expertly designed to cause trouble, and they're almost always quickly followed by a 'Kiss-Off' – a pledge to either continue or split up, sealed (or not) with a kiss – or the arrival of new cast members.
While the sunbed-hopping shenanigans keep things chaotic and maintain the flow, the show is at its best when the guards and personal rivalries comes down and they share their contrasting experiences. For instance, compare Nikita, who's simply looking for her "hottest, gayest summer yet", with Elise and Elisha, for whom dating has only ever meant isolation and frustration.
Read on as we explain how to watch I Kissed a Girl season 2 for free and from anywhere.
Can you watch I Kissed a Girl season 2 for free?
Yes. Viewers in the UK can watch I Kissed a Girl season 2forfreeon BBC Three and the BBC iPlayer streaming service. You'll need a TV licence, naturally.
Traveling outside the UK? You can use a use our favorite VPN to watch your usual streaming services from anywhere.
How to watch I Kissed a Girl season 2 from anywhere
If you're keen to watch I Kissed a Girl season 2but you're away from home and access to the show is geo-blocked, you can always use a VPN to access it (assuming you're not breaching any broadcaster T&Cs, of course). You may be surprised by how simple it is to do.
Use one of the best VPNs to watch I Kissed a Girl S2 from anywhere:
Not having a VPN is like leaving your front door wide open in a busy city – anyone can walk right in and take a peek.
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How to watch I Kissed a Girl season 2 in the UK
(Image credit: Future)
Viewers in the UK can watch I Kissed a Girl season 2 for FREE on BBC Three and via the BBC iPlayer streaming service.
All you need is an account, a TV license and a UK postcode (e.g.HA9 0WS). Sign up here!
There are 10 episodes in total, and they each air as double-headers from 9pm BST on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, starting June 23. Scroll down for the exact release schedule.
However, at least the first five episodes will be available to stream on BBC iPlayer from 6am on Tuesday, June 23.
Outside the UK?Use a VPN to gain access to all the content you'd normally stream at home.
Can I watch I Kissed a Girl season 2 in the US?
Hulu ihas the rights to I Kissed a Girl in the US, though at the time of publication it isn't clear when season 2 will air.
Plans start from $11.99 per month after a FREE 30-day trial. Alternatively, the Disney Plus Bundle costs an extra $1 each month but unlocks access to heaps more entertainment.
For now, a VPN will help you tune in if you're a Brit spending time abroad. NordVPN is our recommended provider, and you can find out why with our in-depth NordVPN review.
Can I watch I Kissed a Girl season 2 in Canada?
In Canada, I Kissed a Girl airs on CTV and Crave, but we're still waiting for plans for season 2.
A Crave subscription starts at CA$11.99/month, but you'll get a better rate if you commit to a longer term.
Visiting Canada from the UK? Use NordVPN to watch I Kissed a Girl S2 for free.
Can I watch I Kissed a Girl season 2 in Australia?
In Australia, free-to-air Network 10 is home to I Kissed a Girl, but at the time of publication the broadcaster's plans for season 2 are still under wraps.
For now, a VPN will help you tune in if you're a Brit Down Under. We recommend NordVPN above all others.
I Kissed a Girl season 2 – Need to Know
I Kissed a Girl season 2 trailer
Who is in the I Kissed a Girl season 2 cast?
Imogen, 21, Manchester
Renee, 25, North London
Elise, 24, Essex
Nikita, 24, Leeds
Tyra, 24, Scotland
Ebony, 22, Newcastle
Elisha, 22, Wales
Faye, 24, Warrington
Ashlea, 25, Bedford
Lindsey, 25, Buckinghamshire
How many episodes of I Kissed a Girl S2 are there?
I Kissed a Girl S2 comprises 10 episodes. There will not be a season 3 – not on the BBC, anyway.
What is the I Kissed a Girl S2 release schedule?
(All times BST)
Episode 1 – Tuesday, June 23 at 9pm
Episode 2 – Tuesday, June 23 at 9.50pm
Episode 3 – Wednesday, June 24 at 9pm
Episode 4 – Wednesday, June 24 at 9.50pm
Episode 5 – Tuesday, June 30 at 9pm
Episode 6 – Tuesday, June 30 at 9.50pm
Episode 7 – Wednesday, July 1 at 9pm
Episode 8 – Wednesday, July 1 at 9.50pm
Episode 9 – Tuesday, July 7 at 9pm
Episode 10 – Tuesday, July 7 at 9.50pm
When will the I Kissed a Girl S2 finale air?
The I Kissed a Girl season 2 finale will air on Tuesday, July 7 at 9.50pm BST in the UK. However, at least the first five episodes will be available to stream on BBC iPlayer from Tuesday, June 23 at 6am.
We test and review VPN services in the context of legal recreational uses. For example:1. Accessing a service from another country (subject to the terms and conditions of that service).2. Protecting your online security and strengthening your online privacy when abroad.We do not support or condone the illegal or malicious use of VPN services. Consuming pirated content that is paid-for is neither endorsed nor approved by Future Publishing.
Electric toothbrushes are popular buys every year in the Amazon Prime Day deals, so much so that the website is absolutely flooded with the things. Not only do you have vast amounts of models from the old guard of Oral-B, Philips, Colgate, and more, but you have newer upstarts like Suri, Ordo, and Supermouth to browse, as well as Amazon's usual slew of no-name dupes.
All the while, they're all packing different features, be they pressure sensors, multiple modes, AI brushing guidance, or reward points. It's getting harder to choose between them due to all the noise!
That's where I come in. I've reviewed plenty of electric toothbrushes in my time as TechRadar's resident health tech editor. I've curated our best electric toothbrushes buying guide, and I've picked out a trio of products that are a) all discounted during Prime Day, and I believe are going to be good value for money. For comparative purposes, I've grouped them into three categories: under $50, under $100, and under $200. Let's get started!
Under $50: Ordo Sonic Lite
(Image credit: Future)
I liked this electric toothbrush when I reviewed it in 2024, calling it 'simple and feature-light, but terrific value'. Therefore, even though it's a tiny discount (the Ordo Sonic Lite was $38.47, but is now $34.99 at Amazon), the brush is such a good value normally that I still feel comfortable recommending it.
The USB-C charging port is convenient, battery life and brushing power impressed, and it comes in a nice variety of colors. The sonic handset (which simply means 'vibrating' in this case) has two modes (soft and hard), a two-minute timer, and a pulse every 30 seconds to remind you to switch 'zones'. That's all most people need out of an electric toothbrush.
A tiny discount, but the brush is still a great value and everything most people need out of a toothbrush. A five-week battery life, USB-C charging, and built-in timer ensure a no-fuss, easy-to-use brush, and it comes in a choice of four lively pastel colors. View Deal
Under $100: Suri 2.0 Sustainable toothbrush
(Image credit: Future)
The Suri electric toothbrush range is built with quality and sustainability in mind. The recyclable heads are comprised of bamboo, while the aluminum handle can actually be taken apart, allowing the device to be repaired in order to reduce electronic waste.
It's also a very good toothbrush, with a powerful motor, month-long battery life, head cover for travel, an optional case with UV light for killing bacteria, and a pressure sensor to prevent you from pushing too hard on your teeth. Our reviewer awarded it 4.5 stars, claiming it "cleans up on all fronts". It even comes with a sticky-backed magnet, allowing you to easily mount it on your bathroom wall.
A USB-C rechargeable sonic (vibrating) brush with a month-long battery life, Suri's main gimmick is its sustainability. The brush is repairable, and the heads are recyclable, so in theory, this is the last toothbrush you'll ever need to buy. Save 20%. View Deal
Under $200: Philips Soniclean Diamondcare 9000
(Image credit: Future)
A powerful premium electric toothbrush, the Philips Sonicare Diamondclean 9000 is packed with features most of us would never even think of, with 12 brush settings, a powerful motor delivering 62,000 bristle movements per minute, smart tooth-cleaning, coaching via the Sonicare app, a USB charging travel case, and lots more.
A powerful do-it-all toothbrush which is said to remove up to 2000% more plaque than a manual brush. A powerful motor, 12 settings for various sensitivities, smart coaching via the Philips app, and matching charging cases. A great buy for a couple. View Deal
Tablets make the perfect first device for a kid. They're much better suited to static, supervised use than a smartphone, can shrug off damage that would leave a laptop in pieces, and can be used as easily for watching YouTube or playing Minecraft as they are for schoolwork or other more practical activities. So all you have to do is pick which one makes sense for you.
You could of course just pick up one of the best iPads. Apple's had the whole tablet thing sorted for years at this point, even on the standard model we recommend in this guide. But you should also check out the offerings below from Amazon and OnePlus - for their value and versatility respectively.
It's hard to know what your kid will need from a tablet as they get older, but these options will go the distance if you need them to. Check our main best tablets and best Android tablets guides if you need more recommendations, but here are the best kids tablets you can buy right now.
Price: $349 / £329 / AU$599 | Display: 10.9 inches (2360 x 1640) | OS: iPadOS 18 (upgradable to iOS 26) | Chipset: Apple A16 | Storage: 128GB / 256GB / 512GB | Battery: 28.93Wh | Rear camera: 12MP | Front camera: 12MP Ultra Wide | Dimensions: 24.9 x 17.95 x 0.7mm | Weight: 475g
A16 chip is very capable
Now starts with 128GB of storage
iPadOS 18 runs smoothly here
No major changes over the previous generation
It's hard to think of a tablet without immediately picturing an iPad. And fortunately, when shopping for a kid-friendly slate, the 11th-gen iPad is indeed the best option for most people.
Even though it is Apple's cheapest, most basic tablet model, the standard iPad has more than enough power, storage and battery performance to last your kid for years, even if they start to need a device for schoolwork as well as entertainment. Just grab one of Apple's own keyboard cases and Apple Pencil styluses (or one of the many third-party options) and bam, you basically have a laptop.
There are no Apple Intelligence AI features present due to this slate's older chipset, but that probably won't bother your child that much. It's also the most expensive option on this list, which may feel a risky option depending on how your child likes to treat their tech. But rest assured that for older, more careful kids, the iPad 11 would be a smart investment.
Price: $139.99 / £149.99 | Display: 10.1-inch 16:10 FHD | OS: Fire OS 8 (based on Android 11) | Chipset: Mediatek MT8186A | Storage: 32GB/64GB (expandable up to 1TB) | Battery: "up to 13 hours" | Rear camera: 5MP | Front camera: 5MP | Dimensions: 246 x 164.8 x 8.6mm | Weight: 433.6g
Cheaper than many rivals
Incredibly hardy
Handy Alexa command center
Tiny changes from 2021 model
Stuck to Amazon ecosystem
Lots of unremovable apps
Although it's a couple of years old, the Fire HD 10 is still Amazon's latest and best option for an affordable tablet that will give you or a younger user all the basics.
As well as the price being appealing, the rugged plastic design hopefully means even the standard non-Kids edition will survive even the roughest treatment. Amazon's built-in kids apps provide a perfect child-ready entertainment suite, and if you want to use it yourself, you may find the strong integration with Alexa and your smart home gadgets rather handy too.
The main limitation is the Fire OS operating system; you get all the basic streaming apps you could want, but the gaming experience leaves a lot to be desired due to limited compatible titles and an old low-powered chipset. Plus there's a bunch of bloatware apps that you cannot remove if you decide you don't want them, not to mention the adverts you are subjected to unless you pay to remove them. If you can live with this though, you are unlikely to find a better value tablet for your family to use.
A well-priced Android slate for kids and adults alike
Price: $399.99 / £319 | Display: 12.1-inch 2800 x 1980 LCD, 120Hz | OS: OxygenOS 15 | Chipset: MediaTek Dimensity 7300-Ultra | Storage: 128GB/256GB | Battery: 10,050mAh | Rear camera: 8MP | Front camera: 8MP | Dimensions: 266.01 x 192.77 x 6.83 mm | Weight: 597g
The perfect feature set for entertainment and productivity
Open Canvas is a huge win for a tablet in the mid-range sector
Big leaps in performance and battery life
The design isn’t much fun
Charging remains unchanged from the original Pad Go
The closest you can get to an iPad running Android is the OnePlus Pad Go 2. But OnePlus' tablet has more going for it than just its resemblance to an Apple product.
You won't be wanting for screen space with the Pad Go 2's big 12.1-inch, 2.8k resolution display. Streaming video and games look and run brilliantly, as does the Android-based OxygenOS operating system. OnePlus' Open Canvas system being a great productivity tool as well, letting you open multiple apps across its spacious display - ideal if this needs to be a tablet for studying too.
Our only complaints are the rather plain design, which may also be a little too big for small hands to use comfortably, and the charging speed remaining a slow 33W. But keep the OnePlus Pad Go 2 topped up regularly, and you'll likely have no trouble from the tablet's primary user.
Our reviewers test the best tablets at home and in the office, and work with Future Labs to test them in our performance laboratory; specifically for tablets with US availability.
We use tablets in our daily lives every day, and will replace our work laptop computers with a tablet for regular use and testing. We travel with tablets and use them extensively for work and personal travel. We use tablets for fun, for games, for creating art, for getting work done, and for doing nothing at all.
Windscribe CEO warns social media quizzes can harvest data to bypass knowledge-based authentication
The 'fun' prompts often perfectly mirror bank security questions
Experts advise users to treat them as a second password by lying
We've all seen them pop up on our feeds: "What's your 90s sitcom character?" or "Discover your stripper name!" But while these social media quizzes might seem like a bit of harmless fun, they are actually acting as a massive phishing net.
That's the warning from Yegor Sak, the founder of one of the best VPN providers, Windscribe. According to Sak, these viral personality tests are carefully crafted to harvest the exact answers that financial institutions use to verify your identity.
By wrapping standard bank security questions, like your mother's maiden name, your first pet, or the street you grew up on, into a gamified social media post, attackers are tricking users into willingly handing over the keys to their accounts.
The dangers of Facebook quizzes
The success of these quizzes comes down to psychology rather than advanced hacking techniques. The questions are cleverly disguised to disarm your natural skepticism.
"If a stranger walked up to you on the street and asked for your mother's maiden name, your first pet, and the street you grew up on, you'd walk away," Sak explained. "Wrap those same questions inside a 'Which 90s sitcom character are you?' quiz, and people happily type the answers into a database owned by someone they'll never meet."
Sak describes every completed quiz as "a credential reset form for a stranger."
Asking for a mother's maiden name directly puts people on the defensive, but asking for a silly combination of a first pet and childhood street gets a laugh.
"Same data. One feels like an interrogation. The other feels like a game. That gap is the entire attack surface," said Sak.
"Most people have been quietly handing over the keys to their bank accounts for the better part of a decade," Sak noted, "and they think they're just having fun on Facebook."
How to protect yourself (and why you should lie)
So, how do you spot a trap? Sak says the danger lies in the type of information requested.
"Any quiz asking for a name plus a memory is a red flag," he warned. "First pet, first car, first school, the street you grew up on, mother's maiden name, favourite teacher. If a quiz is collecting four or five of those in one round, it's not a personality test. It's a security questionnaire with stickers on it."
Because a leaked password can be changed in seconds but the name of the street you grew up on cannot, Sak recommends a simple but drastic fix for knowledge-based authentication: lie.
If you've ever filled out one of these quizzes, you should immediately update the security questions on your bank, email, and brokerage accounts. Treat the answers like a secondary password by using random, fictional responses.
"The data is gone," Sak concluded. "The only thing left to do is change your security answers everywhere, and stop using questions whose answers exist on the internet."
Prime Day kicks off tomorrow, running from June 23-26, but we’re already seeing some early deals. One of these is on the TCL C8K (known as the QM8K in the US), one of 2025’s best mini-LED TVs. The 65-inch C8K is down to £1,079.10 (was £1,199) at Currys. This is a model that I've personally tested, and it’s easily one of the best-value mini-LED TVs I’ve used, over-delivering in terms of features and performance vs price. Get the discount by applying code TV10 at checkout.
While the step-down TCL QM7K/C7K tends to be one of the big stars of Prime Day, the 8-series delivers that extra brightness and punchiness to its picture, plus a meatier built-in sound system.Amazon Prime Daywill bring about more TV deals, but you may not even need to wait that long with this offer already live.
Today's best TCL C8K deal
The TCL 65-inch C8K has dropped to a record-low price of £1,079.10 at Currys. It's a brilliant option for a World Cup upgrade, delivering serious brightness and bold colors, as well as solid motion handling. It also has a decent built-in sound system and great gaming performance. View Deal
Today's best TCL QM8K deal
The 75-inch TCL QM8K has dropped back to a record-low price of $1,397.99 ahead of Prime Day. If you're looking for a TV for the World Cup, the QM8K delivers the bright, punchy picture quality you need, plus a solid built-in sound system. View Deal
Mini-LED greatness
TCL C8KFutureTCL QM8KFuture
While affordable mini-LED should sometimes come with a warning label (as what’s on paper can be too good to be true), this wasn’t the case when I tested the TCL C8K.
Its picture quality is up there with the best TVs. It delivers punchy, vibrant colors that looked sensational when I watched Elemental, really giving the reds, oranges and purples of Ember and her vase serious pop on screen. High brightness also makes this an excellent TV for watching in a bright room. With figures measuring 3,417 nits HDR peak brightness in Standard mode and 3,050 nits in Movie mode, this TV is seriously striking.
With a measured full screen HDR brightness of 776 nits and full screen SDR brightness of 791 nits, both in Standard mode, this TV is an excellent candidate for the World Cup — especially if you’ve been holding off on an upgrade. Coupled with its excellent colors and solid motion handling (after setting judder reduction to 5 and blur reduction to 3 in the settings), this is a great TV for enjoying the rest of the World Cup.
The C8K also impressed me with its contrast and backlight control. Often the kryptonite of cheaper mini-LED TVs (as they don’t have good enough local dimming to deliver accurate contrast), the C8K made high contrast scenes from movies such as The Batman look great. Its backlight control was also superb, showing very little blooming compared to similarly priced rivals.
Sound quality can be hit-and-miss on TVs, but the C8K’s was better than I thought it would be. With audio by Bang & Olufsen, the C8K supplied surprisingly hefty bass, perfect for the rumble of the Batmobile engine in The Batman.
The C8K is also up there with the best gaming TVs, offering 4K 144Hz, FreeSync Premium Pro, Dolby Vision gaming and ALLM support. With a 13.2ms input lag time, you can expect smooth gameplay. When I played Battlefield V, chaotic battle sequences were well-handled and never felt like a strain for the C8K.
Check out our full review of the equally brilliant TCL QM8K in the US, which we described as 'TCL's best mini-LED yet'.
No other 4K drone is easier to get started with than the DJI Neo. Anyone can be airborne with it in minutes, capturing 4K selfies with smart subject tracking. And the good news is that you really don't need all the costly extras that I usually recommend to first-time pilots — the drone-only package for £113.05 at Amazon UK is a great option to take your first flight.
Yes, the beauty of the Neo is its versatile flight options; it works with or without a controller, and with goggles for FPV flight. However, you really can enjoy its best feature — automated subject tracking — in its simplest controller-free form.
If you're feeling flash, the Fly More Combo is available for below £200 for the first time, now just £198.55 at Amazon UK (was £299), with which you'll get the drone, a controller, three batteries and charging hub, while the price of the Motion Fly Combo, which includes the goggles and motion controller for FPV flight, now costs just £309 at Amazon (was £449).
These are excellent prices over Amazon Prime Day for one of the most compelling beginner drones that I've had the pleasure of testing.
With single-push take-off, you don't actually need a controller to use the DJI Neo (Image credit: James Abbott)
A DJI drone at this price?
We gave the DJI Neo 4 stars in our review when it was launched in September 2024 as the cheapest DJI drone that shoots 4K video. It has since been upgraded to the Neo 2 in November 2025 — I've highlighted five key differences in my DJI Neo 2 vs DJI Neo explainer so you can be sure what you may or may not be missing out on should you opt for the older model.
Yes, the Neo 2 is a decent upgrade and worth the extra outlay for some people, but there are many similarities between the two selfie drones. For first-timers, I think the original model offers the best value, especially at the new low prices.
If aerial photography is your chief concern, however, you might be better off looking at other DJI quadcopters; the Neo has a small 1/2-inch sensor and is limited to 12MP JPEG-only photos and 4K video with standard color profile (no D-Log). The Neo 2 has much the same image quality, but drones such as the recent DJI Lito X1 give an image quality step up. I've included the best deals for other beginner DJI drones below, though none come close to the extraordinarily low price of the Neo.
The DJI Neo is the easiest 4K drone you'll ever fly, and a fantastic gateway for beginners. You're not buying a Neo for its 12MP photo and 4K video quality, but its host of beginner-friendly features like one-tap takeoff and automatic return. Being just 135g, no registration is required, and, thanks to today's low price at Amazon, both the standalone drone and combo packages are available for very cheap indeed. This deal is for the Fly More bundle which includes a controller, three batteries and charging hub.
Usually I would all out recommend the Fly More Combos, but of any beginner drone, the autonomous Neo is possibly the one where you can get away with the single-battery, drone-only bundle.
On the flipside, if you'd like to try immersive FPV flight, the Neo can be purchased with goggles in the pricier Motion Fly Combo for $449 (was $529). View Deal
Today's best DJI Neo deals
Usually, I recommend Fly More Combos for first-time buyers because you get a controller, extra batteries, and a charging hub, but of any beginner drone, the autonomous Neo is possibly the one where you can get away with the single-battery, drone-only bundle.
There's a huge price drop for the Neo drone-only option, with more than £50 off the original price. By my reckoning, this is the lowest price ever in the UK for a DJI drone that shoots 4K video. View Deal
The DJI Neo is the easiest 4K drone you'll ever fly, with one-tap takeoff, subject tracking, and automatic return. Weighing just 135g, no registration is required, and, thanks to today's low price at Amazon, both the standalone drone and combo packages are available for well below the list price. This deal is for the Fly More bundle, which also includes a controller, three batteries, and a charging hub.
You're not buying a Neo for its 12MP photo and 4K video quality, but its ease of use, beginner-friendly features, and versatile flight options. If you want better quality aerial images, check out the deals listed below for the Mini 4K, Lito X1, and Mini 5 Pro.
Audio-lovers, Prime Day — and in fact any big sales event — is always a savvy time to buy. But right now I think we need good quality portable music in our lives more than ever. And thankfully, I can help you make it affordable too, as Prime Day is practically upon us, and it seems the retail giant simply couldn't wait!
The headphones and earbuds I'm recommending here all really are good quality and all come with a TR review — and the discounts are either a new lowest-seen price, or a return to the lowest asking fee we've ever seen.
Essentially, I've been doing this full-time since 2019 and if I don't love the product and the saving, I won't list it here. OK? I test headphones all day every day, so I know great sound, I know the market, and I know a fantastic deal when I see it.
One quick thing: please don't read this roundup, click through to Amazon or another one of the big retailers, take a left (or a right, in fact) and buy a set of buds or cans that do not feature here — and that neither myself nor the wider TechRadar team has mentioned or reviewed. Or, if you do, just don't comment here and compel me to recommend what you just bought retrospectively, because unfortunately I probably won't do that.
These deals (and only these deals) are the ones I've reviewed and tested. And that's why I'm recommending them to you this Prime Day. Think this roundup's a little short? That's because my standards are high, friends…
The best early Prime Day headphones / earbuds deals, US
These are the new new March 2026 edition, with the H2 chip and all of the upticks in performance that brings. And though many might have predicted an Apple-style $50 saving (yawn), this $150-off steal is crazy! Nobody had this on their bingo card for Prime Day. Let me be abundantly clear: the noise cancellation here is absolutely fantastic — and I know, because I reviewed them… View Deal
The ANC quality from the QuietComfort Ultra (Gen 2) is better than any other other wireless over-ear headphone on the market. Let that sink in. And yes, you can pay a lot more for premium headphones. This is a return to their lowest ever price too! You’re also getting a lightweight and comfortable pair that are perfect for long-haul flights, and it doesn’t hurt that they look really sleek with the addition of a metallic trim. View Deal
This might just be the best early Prime Day tech deal, especially if you want Apple's iconic buds (and you'd be in good company; they're the most popular earbuds in the world for a reason). Apple's AirPods Pro 3 for a record-low price of $169? Come on! Apple's newest premium buds feature improved Active Noise Cancellation, outstanding audio, a comfortable in-ear design, and new features such as live translation and heart-rate tracking. These do-it-all buds really are 100% flagship audio, and the noise-canceling quality is outstanding.View Deal
This is the cheapest these have ever been! They've been $59 before, but this chops an extra $3 off that – hurrah! Amazon's listing their most recent $79 fee as a comparison, but make no mistake, their original MSRP is the one you see in this deal. A top saving! Highly recommended. View Deal
In terms of wireless hi-res and audiophile watchwords, you name it, it's within these over ear headphones: LDAC, Snapdragon Sound, Planar Magnetic, aptX Adaptive, and aptX Lossless… and this is as cheap as I've ever seen them. No ANC, but if you want great sound (or someone you know does), this is the deal for you, I'm telling you. Don't believe me? See our full Edifier Stax Spirit S5 review.View Deal
The excellent EAH-AZ80 that came before this model basically tore up the rule book on sound quality and features in wireless earbuds – and the AZ100 are even better. Released in January 2025, these little beauties are still the only earbuds to offer multipoint to three devices simultaneously, plus excellent sidetone tech for hearing your own voice in calls, as well as some of the most neutral and detailed audio in an even smaller, even more premium-feel design. Oh, and the deal? It's a return to their lowest-seen price ever. Highly recommended. View Deal
We said in our review of the WF-C510 that these are among our favorite low-cost earbuds thanks to their punchy, high-quality sound, comfortable fit and ultra-affordable price. We rated them 4.5 stars at full price, and said they're preferable even to Apple's more expensive AirPods 4 as great budget buds. At this discounted price they're an absolute steal, as long as you're happy going without active noise cancellation.View Deal
Bose is one of the biggest names in the world of headphones, and that reputation for quality is shown in these earbuds. The Ultra Open boast incredible sound, supreme power, and excellent battery life, making them a seriously premium pair of all-around buds. Now at a record-low price (as long as certain finishes work for you), so there's no better time to buy.View Deal
On the face of it, a 28% saving isn't the most headline-worthy sale you'll see on Black Friday. But this is Bose – and it's also the first ever saving I've seen on this set of 5-star, 2025-release noise-cancelling earbuds. They basically walk all over anything else on the market for noise cancellation (except maybe Apple's AirPods Pro 3 – but if you don't own an iPhone I don't recommend those, however good the deal). A lowest-seen fee on a truly excellent set of new earbuds from Bose? Yes please. View Deal
No, it's not a massive discount, but it's the first real one we've had, and it's a decent one, taking 12% off the usual price of Apple's newest and most advanced ANC earbuds. The main difference between the Pro 3 and Pro 2 is the addition of heart rate sensing and Live Translation using Apple Intelligence, and the ANC is vastly improved, as I covered at length in my AirPods Pro 3 review – which is no small statement given that the ANC in the AirPods Pro 2 was already excellent. View Deal
This is the lowest price we've ever seen for the AirPods Pro 2, and it's an astounding value for earbuds this good. They sound superb, they have high-tier noise cancellation, they have an unlosable case, and they have the newer Live Translation and hearing aid features that also feature on AirPods Pro 3 – these are only missing the heart-rate sensors of the new model in terms of major features.View Deal
Sony's newest mid-range wireless earbuds for less than $80 in Amazon's early Black Friday sale? Yup: this is a real bargain. For this money, you're getting Sony quality for the kind of money you'd expect to pay for a much lesser brand. In our Sony WF-C710N review, we heaped praise on these buds for their bolstered battery life, fantastic sound quality and upgraded ANC. At this price point, my recommending them is a no-brainer – at a third of the price of the high-end Sony WF-1000XM5 earbuds, we think these are the better-value buy.View Deal
Apple's most affordable AirPods are currently at their lowest ever price on Walmart, and that makes them an even better buy. At under $70, these are great: they have personalized spatial audio, better-than-promised battery life (based on our testing), and fantastic integration with Apple's other devices.View Deal
Amazon is running an unbelievably good deal on the AirPods 4 with ANC. Everything I've said above about these AirPods applies here: they're the best earbuds for iPhone users who want Apple's excellent device integration and ANC without having to shove anything into your ear canals.View Deal
This is a very solid deal on some great clip-on open earbuds. They only arrived in May 2025, so this is one of the first few times our price trackers have ever spotted a discount on them. How good are they? Very very good, as out glowing Shokz OpenDots One review proves. Again, this deal won't last long though – quick! View Deal
A $55 saving on the Shokz OpenRun Pro 2 (bone conduction headphones that don't actually go into your ear) is not to be sniffed at, especially as it's the biggest discount these headphones have ever had – they briefly dropped to $139 before now, but never this low! Available in both standard and mini sizes in three colors, the Pro 2 uses bone conduction and air conduction to deliver great sound on multiple fronts, all while keeping you aware of your surroundings. Calling someone? An AI noise reduction algorithm filters out 96.5% of background noise.View Deal
And a wired set! I love my own personal set of IE 600 (and the wider TechRadar team has written odes to their pairs), so I really want you to know about this saving. For clarity, it's an excellent deal too: the cheapest they've ever been on Amazon is $499 to date, so if you want to check to see if they fall this low again, Black Friday weekend is probably the time – at this very link. They're fashioned from a metal called ZR01 amorphous zirconium. Sounds premium, right? That's because it is – it's the same metal used for the drilling head of NASA's Mars Rover. And the sound? Oh, don't get me started (but do go to our Sennheiser IE 600 review if you need to know more). View Deal
The best early Amazon Prime Day headphones / earbuds deals, UK
The excellent EAH-AZ80 that came before this model basically tore up the rule book on sound quality and features in wireless earbuds – and the AZ100 are even better. Released in January 2025, these little beauties are still the only earbuds to offer multipoint to three devices simultaneously plus excellent sidetone tech for hearing your own voice in calls, as well as some of the most neutral and detailed audio in an even smaller, even more premium-feel design. Highly recommended. View Deal
This is a new record-low price for Apple's newest buds. The AirPods 4 feature a new design for all-day comfort and pack Apple's H2 chip, which supports personalized spatial audio and voice isolation. You also get a redesigned case with 30 hours of battery life and support for USB-C for wireless charging. Just be aware that this cheaper version does not support active noise cancellation, so it may be worth paying the extra to get that benefit with the deal below.View Deal
Willing to spend a bit more? Amazon's early Prime Day deals feature the AirPods 4 with active noise cancellation for their lowest price ever. These AirPods 4 feature a new comfortable design, handy controls, and Apple's H2 chip, which supports personalised spatial audio and voice isolation. There's also that all-important ANC to block out distracting noises and outside sounds, which is great when you want to focus at work or are commuting.View Deal
In terms of wireless hi-res and audiophile watchwords, you name it, it's within these over ear headphones: LDAC, Snapdragon Sound, Planar Magnetic, aptX Adaptive, and aptX Lossless… and this is as cheap as I've ever seen them. No ANC, but if you want great sound (or someone you know does), this is the deal for you, I'm telling you. Don't believe me? See our full Edifier Stax Spirit S5 reviewView Deal
These open-fit, clip (or ear cuff) style buds arrived in May 2025, and this is the lowest price our deals trackers have ever spotted on them. How good are they? Very very good, as out glowing Shokz OpenDots One review proves. Again, this deal won't last long though – quick! View Deal
This is the first discount I've ever seen on Anker's over-ear headphones, after being released towards the beginning of the year. It's unlikely they'll see a bigger price cut when Prime Day truly begins, and for my money, the noise cancellation here is excellent. Not the audiophiles' choice, you understand, but no slouch either… View Deal
Yes, you can get Sony's newest affordable wireless earbuds for less than £75 in Amazon's early Prime Day sale – talk about a bargain! This is a return to their lowest ever fee and for this money, you're getting Sony quality for non-brand money. In my Sony WF-C710N review, I heaped praise on these buds for their bolstered battery life, fantastic sound quality and upgraded ANC. At this price point, my recommending them is a no-brainer.View Deal
I adore these headphones, and provided the white finish suits, there is a huge saving to be had here — one that's never been seen by our price trackers 'til now. B&W's headphones look stunning and the sound is more than worth the reduced outlay here. Comfort levels? Fantastic. ANC? Very decent. They gained a glowing five-star review from this very publication at their full price. For this money? A solid bargain. View Deal
Again, on the face of it, this saving isn't the most headline-worthy sale you'll see on Black Friday. But this is Bose – and it's also the first ever saving I've seen on this set of 5-star, 2025-release noise-cancelling earbuds we've ever seen. They basically walk all over anything else on the market for noise cancellation (except maybe Apple's AirPods Pro 3 – but if you don't own an iPhone I don't recommend those, however good the deal). They're currently dipping below £270, but only in certain colourways. A new lowest-seen fee on a truly excellent set of new earbuds from Bose? Yes please. View Deal
My five-star Nothing Ear (a) review is the place for the full scoop on the fun, energetic sound of these buds, but know that they have great noise cancellation, a compact design, and a truly eye-catching look – especially in my favourite yellow colour (also in the deal at the time of writing). This is a record-low price for them, and there are simply no better earbuds you can buy for under £60.View Deal
Before we get super carried away, the JLab Go Air Pop are not the last word in sonic brilliance – if JLab had managed that for around the price of a round, we could all go home. But they're extremely good value – in fact they're alarmingly good for this asking fee, and they absolutely, categorically are not junk. If this is truly where your budget maxes out, you'll get reliable Bluetooth connectivity, killer battery life, comfortable and light earpieces, and solid musicality on the go. It would be churlish to expect more. I've been testing earbuds since 2019 and I love them. Secret Santa gift with a £20 spending cap? You could do a lot worse…View Deal
This is £10 cheaper than we've ever seen AirPods Pro 2 available for before. In the UK, the price difference between these and AirPods Pro 3 is much closer than in the US – the newer model are £50 more at £219 – but I think a lot of people will be more than happy with the sound quality and noise cancellation of these models, and £50 left in your wallet. And they have practically all the same features as AirPods Pro 3, except for the heart-rate sensors.View Deal
I'm not being dramatic here: at this price, the Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 are an absolute steal. By making them £127, Amazon is selling them cheaper than they've ever been – and honestly, it's a lot less than you'd pay for many far less capable capable earbuds. At full price the Galaxy Buds 3 Pro get four out of five stars. At this price (and now with added Google Gemini smarts), they basically get six out of five. View Deal
OpenRun Pro 2 (a set of bone conduction headphones that don't actually cover the ears so are almost like open earbuds!) are among the very best running headphones available right now, at the lowest price they've ever been – a solid Black Friday no-brainer for the long-distance runner in your life. View Deal
And finally, a wired set! I adore my own set of IE 600 (and the wider TechRadar team has written odes to their pairs), so even though the deal is available only on Sennheiser's website at the time of writing, I'm listing it here because I want you to have at the saving. For clarity, it's an excellent deal, if you're prepared to start another online shopping cart: the cheapest they've ever been on Amazon is £449 to date. They're fashioned from a metal called ZR01 amorphous zirconium. Sounds premium, right? That's because it is – it's the same metal used for the drilling head of NASA's Mars Rover. And the sound? Oh, don't get me started (but do go to our Sennheiser IE 600 review if you need to know more). View Deal
When is Prime Day 2026?
Amazon has officially confirmed that Prime Day 2026 will run from June 23 to Jun 26, extending the event to four full days for only the second time (last year, the event took place in July but for the same amount of days). It gives shoppers a full 96 hours to take advantage of exclusive discounts, which is twice as long as the traditional 48-hour format we typically see for most sales events
For those hunting headphone deals, it's worth noting that new offers will go live at midnight PDT in the US and midnight GMT in the UK. Each day will likely bring a fresh wave of limited-time lightning deals, and we’re expecting to see solid discounts on everything from premium noise-canceling models to budget-friendly earbuds.
Do you need Amazon Prime to buy Prime Day headphone deals?
Simply put, yes. An Amazon Prime membership is required to take full advantage of Prime Day headphone deals, although some later deals will be available to all. While there are often listings open to everybody on Prime Day, the best deals are usually reserved for prime members only. If you're not a member, don't worry – you can sign up for a free 30-day trial. That will give you access to all the offers – and you can cancel the trial at any time within 30 days.
We also typically see plenty of other retailers offering competing Prime Day headphone deals. In the US, Best Buy and Walmart often price match some of the record-low prices on big-ticket items, and in the UK, Currys often honors price matches from Amazon as well.
Amazon Prime: 30-day free trial If you've never signed up before you can get a 30-day free trial of Amazon Prime to get access to this year's Prime Day deals. You get the same benefits as paid members, including free delivery, and access to other services such as Prime Video, Prime Music, Prime Gaming and more. You can cancel at any time during the trial to avoid paying the regular fee, which is $14.99 / £8.99 per month.
EarlyAmazon Prime Day deals are floating around ahead of the retail giant's big event which kicks off in less than 24 hours, but sometimes an early Prime Day offer goes a long way — especially with everyone's favorite kitchen gadget, the air fryer.
We've tested some of the best air fryers out there, and mine has been going strong for the past two years, but I'm at the point where I need a little more oomph. Dual basket air fryers are the answer, but they can be quite pricey (I'm looking at you, Ninja) — although right now, you can score the Philips 3000 Series air fryer for less than £100.
This dual basket model is one of the latest stand-outs in Amazon's early Prime Day sale, and you can grab it for 53% less right now — I know, I can barely believe it either. That means that you can get your hands on one for £85.49 down from £179.99.
Though we're yet to give the Philips 3000 Series a proper hands-on review, our editor Max Langridge managed to try it a few months back, and his first impressions were highly positive.
Today's best Philips Series 3000 air fryer deal
Record-low price: Amazon's event is still a day away, but there's no denying that this early offer is just as good, if not better than any you'll find on actual Prime Day. It likes to yo-yo in price, but this is the first time we've seen this model drop below £100 since Black Friday last year. For a dual basket model and 13 different cooking methods, how can you go wrong? View Deal
As mentioned, we haven't reviewed the Philips 3000 series in its entirety just yet, however our experiences with the Philips 1000 Series and Philips 5000 Series went down swimmingly, so our trust in Philips' performance and delivery is very much there.
I've been using the smaller Instant Vortex Plus air fryer for the past two years, and while it's one of my favorite healthy cooking appliances for speedy and tasty results, I've found myself wanting to cook more for meal prepping. That in mind, cooking in batches just adds extra time on to how long you spend in the kitchen. The Philips 3000 Series takes away that pain point.
Size-wise, the Philips 3000 Series has two separate baskets, one at 3L and the other at 6L, totalling a spacious 9L. Admittedly, it's not one for smaller countertops, but it provides ample cooking space for you to speed through meal prepping, or for feeding multiple mouths at the table if you have a larger family. Additionally, you can cook separate dishes to finish at the same time, taking the guess work out of cooking.
With my Instant Vortex Plus, it has four solid cooking presets — six with its larger sibling — and though this may suffice for some users, it's always helpful to have more options in case you decide to experiment with new recipes, for instance.
With its generous eight presets on its touchscreen, the Philips 3000 Series sets the times and temperature for you based on whatever storm you fancy whipping up. You can also make the most of the HomeID app — which features more than 500 recipes — instead of scrolling through TikTok endlessly to find your next dinner party centrepiece (which I'm guilty of doing all the time).
Things are hotting up in the UK, and that usually means you can expect fans to be very much full price. Except this heatwave has coincided with Amazon Prime Day — and a bunch of rival sales events from other retailers — and that means we're unexpectedly blessed when it comes to fan discounts.
I've rounded up the best options from Amazon and beyond, focusing on trusted brands and well-reviewed products. I've split my picks into pedestal, tower and desktop fans.
Pedestal fans are probably what you think of when you think of a fan — a circular fan head on a skinny stand. They're easy to move from room to room, and some models can be adjusted in height for directed cooling where you need it. A tower fan looks a little smarter (and indeed, is more likely to have smart features), and is designed to live in a permanent spot in the corner of a room. A desktop fan sits on a tabletop for more localised cooling; for example to blast at your face while you're working from home.
Fans don't lower the temperature in a room, but they will make you feel cooler by helping the sweat evaporate from your skin faster. You'll find more information and advice in our in-depth best fans guide. If you need something more extreme, you could consider investing in a portable air conditioner unit (although be aware these are selling out fast). Alternatively, if you're just in the mood for a bargain, head to TechRadar's early Prime Day deals guide for the best discounts on all kinds of tech.
Role-playing games (RPGs) can be some of the best value purchases for PlayStation 5 owners, often offering hundreds of hours of entertainment with immersive open worlds, countless quests, and plenty of epic loot.
Away from the ongoing Amazon Prime Day deals, one of the best bargains right now is a new lowest-ever price on the Gothic remake - which only released early this month and has already had an unprecedented $36 discount at Best Buy
This is a full remake of the original 2001 RPG Gothic, which the developers of The Witcher series have specifically cited as a big inspiration. It's not the only quality RPG on offer right now, though, and I've picked out a range of other PS5 favorites below.
The best PS5 RPGs right now
Gothic 1 Remake
Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth
Persona 3 Reload
Final Fantasy 16
Metaphor: Refantazio Launch Edition
The Outer Worlds 2
Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2
The Elder Scrolls 4: Oblivion Remastered Deluxe Edition
QiAnXin XLab uncovered “AryStinger,” malware exploiting old D-Link/Linksys router flaws (CVE‑2013‑3307, CVE‑2016‑5681) to build a proxy/reconnaissance network
So far 4,300 routers infected, mostly in South Korea (48%) and China (32%), with QNAP NAS devices also targeted via CVE‑2025‑11837
Compromised devices enable scanning, tunneling, and covert control; researchers advise monitoring logs, binaries in /tmp/bin, and suspicious processes like syswapd0h or syswapd0w
Cybersecurity researchers QiAnXin XLab are warning about an ongoing campaign to create a distributed reconnaissance and proxy network out of people’s routers and NAS devices.
The campaign targets outdated and unsupported routers (mostly D-Link and Linksys), powered by Realtek’s RTL819X chips which were a popular choice between 2012 and 2015. The attackers are leveraging two (ancient) vulnerabilities, CVE-2013-3307 in Linksys models and CVE-2016-5681 in D-Link ones, to infect the devices with a previously undetected piece of malware called AryStinger.
According to the researchers, AryStinger is used during the reconnaissance and planning stages of a more serious cyberattack. Devices infected with this malware can scan the internet, fingerprint services, enumerate subdomains, tunnel traffic, and run commands on demand, all while hiding the location (and true identity) of the attackers.
Targeting NAS devices
“Once compromised by malware like AryStinger that possesses reconnaissance and covert control capabilities, it is equivalent to a hacker placing a permanent "invisible listening device" and "attack springboard" within your network,” the researchers said.
QiAnXin’s XLab says that So far, AryStinger infected 4,300 routers, but stresses that this is not the final number and with the campaign ongoing, will rise even more.
The majority of the victims are located in South Korea (48%) and China (32%), with notable mentions being Sweden, Malaysia, and Singapore.
AryStinger also targets QNAP’s NAS devices, leveraging a code injection flaw in the device’s Malware Remover. This flaw, tracked as CVE-2025-11837, was first discovered during last year’s Pwn2Own event, and was patched in November 2025. The researchers don’t know how many of these devices are currently infected, and say the 4,300 figure only relates to routers.
The researchers did not attribute this attack to any particular threat actor.
To defend against AryStinger, the researchers recommend monitoring the logs for any outbound connections to the C2 and download domains (found here), checking /tmp/bin for unrecognized binaries, and looking for processes named syswapd0h or syswapd0w.
ChatGPT thinks it knows what my next obsession will be — and after reading its explanation, I'm not entirely convinced it's wrong. In fact, it's a neat trick to try, and you might enjoy doing it with ChatGPT yourself by using the same prompt.
I asked the AI chatbot a simple question: "Based on everything you know about me, what hobby, interest, TV show, band, sport, or technology am I most likely to become obsessed with over the next six months?"
After clarifying with me that I wasn't referring to any professional interests and meant activities beyond work, ChatGPT came back with a somewhat surprisingly nuanced list. The top prediction was surprising: backyard astronomy.
"Of everything you've talked about, it has the highest future obsession potential," ChatGPT told me. "It combines learning, wonder, collecting, equipment, family memories, and a touch of childhood fascination. There's a telescope-shaped hole in your life that it will fill."
Astronomical fun
I have asked questions about telescopes, stargazing, and things to do with my son that do not involve staring at screens as part of other tests. Less obviously, I tend to prefer hobbies that reward curiosity and gradual improvement rather than immediate mastery. So it made sense.
And the AI was happy to lay out ideas for getting into the hobby, including local astronomy clubs and public observation nights, and of course, links to equipment to buy. What struck me most was that astronomy was not presented as a random recommendation. It emerged from a pattern. The prediction was less about stars and planets than about the kinds of activities that consistently grab my attention.
That same logic showed up elsewhere on the list. Board games landed near the top of ChatGPT's list, for instance. The reasoning was not so much because of discussions about playing board games specifically, but more because, according to the AI, I often look for activities suitable for Family outings and weekends, as well as screen-free entertainment.
Bird is the word
(Image credit: Future)
Not everything on the list made sense for my life, simply because ChatGPT doesn't know everything about my daily life. For example, I've discussed getting better at guitar with the AI, but haven't really said anything about my daily practice and current efforts. So, while guitar being on the list wasn't a crazy notion, it would have been more relevant a couple of years ago.
The appearance of birding on the list was much more unexpected, as I don't recall ever expressing an interest in birds with the AI. But ChatGPT explained that it stems from the same reasons it thinks I like astronomy as a hobby, mainly how they both require observation, patience, collecting knowledge, and becoming excited about things that look nearly identical at first. I'm not sure that it will be something I take up, but I can't deny the notion that it might be fun.
On the other hand, the AI could be wildly off about my potential interests. According to ChatGPT, I am "a strong candidate to become obsessed with the Grateful Dead." I have no problem with the band or its music, but it will never be a sound I choose to listen to independently. According to ChatGPT, the recommendation was more about the culture surrounding the music, its deep history and lore, the passionate fans, and the huge back catalog. But while I may like exploring complex and deep worlds of hobbies, it still has to be a subject I'm interested in. So, while I may start spending my nights looking at the stars, the soundtrack will have to be something else.
YouTube TrashBench tried an extreme cooling solution
He rigged up a custom ice machine to his Nvidia GPU
The cooling solution worked — but only up to a point
If your part of the world is heading into summer and temperatures are soaring, you might be on the look-out for more creative ways to keep you and your PC kit cool: such as a custom graphics card chiller based around a customized ice machine.
This is the work of YouTuber TrashBench (via XDA Developers) who ran water from an ice machine past his Nvidia RTX 3060 GPU using a water pump. Right from the off, we should emphasize that you shouldn't try this at home — this is potentially very unsafe, as the YouTuber himself admits in the video.
A number of modification hacks were required to get this even close to working. The ice machine had to be taken apart and hooked up to a thermostat to make sure it always stayed on and kept cooling the water, rather than taking breaks as ice formed and was pushed out into the ice machine bucket.
Further DIY solutions were required for more cooling and drainage, but eventually TrashBench was able to get his rather barmy setup operational — at least for 10 minutes until he announced "everything is covered in water".
Some actual results
Condensation from the cooled water was building up around the pipes of the bespoke system, and forming on the GPU cooler itself. Obviously, water and electronics don't mix very well, so further protective steps were needed.
With a few final adjustments, TrashBench was able to get the water in his ice machine suitably cooled, and even managed to play a bit of Cyberpunk 2077. The graphics card was running at about 60C with the default air cooling in place, but was kept below 23C while playing Cyberpunk with the ice chiller.
At the hottest point of the RTX 3060, the temperature went down from 75C to 34C, testing showed. However, with the water temperature in the ice bucket continuing to climb, it's not clear how long the experiment lasted for — as the YouTuber himself acknowledges, you should not try and cool your GPU with an ice machine.
"This is not a tutorial. I am not an electrician. Everything here is stupid," says TrashBench in his video description, so take heed that this "cursed little GPU chiller" should remain nothing more than an entertaining and temporary distraction.
Microsoft has confirmed that 26H2 will be a minor update
It'll be a "small enablement package" like Windows 11 25H2
This means less likelihood of bugs, with major features being rolled out separately in monthly updates – a sensible approach, although that said, 27H2 could be different
Microsoft has confirmed that Windows 11's next annual update will be another minor affair, all in the cause of avoiding a repeat of the chaos around the 24H2 update.
Windows 11 24H2 was the last version of the OS to land bristling with major changes, as 25H2 was a small incremental update – and now it's confirmed that this will be the case for 26H2 as well.
In reality, this means that the upgrade is essentially a lightweight download with no meaningful feature additions – so isn't that disappointing?
In a word, no, because it's just indicative of how Microsoft has switched to a more sensible way of working in terms of yearly updates for Windows 11.
Analysis: a more stable way of working
(Image credit: Future/Jacob Krol)
Instead of unloading a whole raft of new features in the annual update, Microsoft is now deploying those features in stages throughout the year. And that strategy of drip-feeding important new features in different monthly updates – with the usual controlled rollouts, the pace of which varies depending on how cautious Microsoft is feeling about any given piece of functionality – is a better way of working overall.
Not only does it mean that we don't have to wait until the latter half of every year to receive major new changes for Windows 11, but we don't have a massive download and complicated installation to deal with when the H2 update arrives, too. On top of that, there's more chance of things going awry when a big annual update lands, as we saw with the 24H2 update, which suffered a whole load of annoying bugs – and I think Microsoft learned its lesson from this.
So, what's the point of the annual update now? Well, 26H2 provides another marker for support, extending your ability to get updates. Those still on Windows 11 24H2 should note that support runs out for this version in October 2026 – which is when 26H2 should roll out (or just before, perhaps in September) – so those on 24H2 will need to upgrade to 26H2.
That said, the other possibility with installing a newer version of Windows 11 that's an enablement package is that while it doesn't pack any new features as such, stepping up to the latest release such as 26H2 may trigger a feature rollout for your PC that you wouldn't have got otherwise. There's no guarantee you'll get anything, mind, but it could work out that way.
All in all, I'd rather Microsoft worked this way for the noted reasons around the increased stability of piecemeal feature deployment, rather than them arriving in one big lump with the inherent danger of a bunch of gremlins therein.
Microsoft can follow this path because the foundations of the underlying codebase remain the same – which has been the case since 24H2 – although at some point, it'll need to take Windows 11 forward onto a new codebase, which is when we'll see a bigger update.
Hopefully going forward, Microsoft will still stick broadly to the new philosophy it appears to have embraced, in terms of fewer big updates and multiple enablement packages in-between.
Millions of Brazilians received an unauthorized government alert
The text simply read ‘misanthropi4’ and it’s unknown who sent it
The government has denied it was responsible, pointing towards hackers
If you’re based in the US, you might know about AMBER alerts, also known as Wireless Emergency Alerts, which are mass-broadcast messages sent to every smartphone in a designated area. Several other nations have similar platforms in place, including Brazil — but many Brazilians recently learned that their emergency alert system wasn’t quite as secure as they might have hoped.
In the early hours of Saturday morning, millions of Brazilians were jolted awake by a mysterious message from the country’s alert system. The alert level was classified as “extreme,” and concerningly, it’s thought it was the work of hackers rather than any official body.
The message, which was sent to civilians in the southern state of Paraná and the cities of São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro, among others, simply read “misantropi4.” That’s an approximation of the Portuguese word “misanthropia,” (with the final A swapped for a 4). As with the English word “misanthropy,” it means a hatred or distrust of humanity.
The message was accompanied by a loud alarm sound normally reserved for particularly severe thunderstorms. Since the text was sent shortly after midnight local time, it ensured that many people were woken up in the middle of the night.
Brazilian authorities said that the emergency message system was taken offline after a probable hacker attack, suggesting that this was more than just a simple text sent out in error by the government. Indeed, there was no event or natural disaster serious enough to warrant the alert being activated at the time, which further points towards bad actors being responsible.
A potentially devastating attack
An example of the text sent by hackers to Brazilian civilians. (Image credit: BrazilianSwainSimp on Reddit)
The fact that hackers were able to breach a government system that has the potential to communicate with every mobile device in a given area of the country has worrying implications, both for the ways civilians could be manipulated and for the security of government institutions as a whole.
A text from a known government source is likely to be trusted more than one from an unknown number. With access to Brazil’s emergency broadcast system, hackers could potentially send out fraudulent messages that might have a larger impact than normal. That opens the door for all kinds of nefarious activities.
For now, this attack seems to have had a relatively minor impact. For many Brazilians posting on social media, the text was confusing more than anything else.
Last-Educator3947 on Reddit, for example, said “I live in the town where the alert was first sent. It happened five minutes after the Brazil x Haiti World Cup game. My anxious brain associated misanthropy with a violent attack on the people celebrating in the streets after the game. I thought it was an incel Discord hacker sending a message to start a ‘The Purge’-style attack.” They then added: “I’m laughing now but I barely slept last night.”
Reddit user Magnon, meanwhile, summed up the situation by saying that it, “Sounds like an anime villain just spawned.”
According to the International Cyber Digest newsletter on X, this breach could be linked to a previous hack of a Brazilian government employee who was infected with an infostealer. International Cyber Digest claims that stolen credentials included government logins, emails, developmental and staging environments, and more.
Whether or not this is what gave hackers access to the Brazilian government’s alert system isn’t yet known. Either way, it demonstrates the power that hackers can accrue if they find a way into supposedly secure governmental systems. While this alert saga turned out to be relatively harmless, that might not be the case next time.
Do not adjust your screens; it's not actually Amazon Prime Day proper yet — that'll happen at the stroke of midnight tonight. But that doesn't mean Amazon hasn't gone full-on in early doors, does it?
The deal I need you to know about somehow (I don't make the rules, OK?) concerns the Apple AirPods Max 2. Yes, the newest, just-released-in-March-2026 set. The set with the new colorways and, most importantly, the H2 chip, which means access to Apple Intelligence, better ANC, Conversation Awareness, Live Translation and the Camera Remote (but that's just for starters).
Right now, they've dropped to an all-new low of $399 (was $549) at Amazon, and quite frankly, they're so much better than that money. I reviewed them myself (and I review — and train people on how to review — headphones for a living, as TR's audio editor), and they're the real deal.
Today's best AirPods Max 2 deal
What a deal! These are the new March 2026 edition, with the H2 chip and all of the upticks in performance that it brings. And though many might have predicted an Apple-style $50 saving (yawn), this $150-off steal is crazy! Nobody had this on their bingo card for Prime Day. OK, the deal is only on the 'Starlight' finish, but for this money that shouldn't be an issue — it's a perfectly lovely finish. Let me be abundantly clear: the noise cancellation here is absolutely fantastic — and I know, because I reviewed them… View Deal
Let me tell you one thing about these headphones: I test headphones as part of my day-to-day, five days a week, and have done so since 2019. These particular headphones are now the ones I reach for over all others, including those from Bose and Sony.
And I wasn't always an Apple fangirl. In fact, when the Cupertino giant unveiled Apple Music Lossless and Hi-Res Lossless for free back in 2021, as part of your Apple Music subscription, I may have largely dismissed Apple's musical headgear — and for some time after. Why? Because it took four more years for the Cupertino giant to work out how to get its Lossless music standard into its own flagship headphones.
But that has all changed now, because you can listen wirelessly or hook them up via USB-C for Lossless playback. OK, the Max 2's looks may not be so different to the 2020 originals, but that extra computational wizardry and H2 chipset power has made the noise-cancellation a lot better than before — and the noise-nixing in the originals was no slouch.
I find the Live Translation feature much more useful than I'd thought it would be (I tried it on a recent trip to Spain), and the new Camera Remote function, where you use the digital crown to snap an iPhone picture, is excellent. I also love Conversation Awareness, which locks in quicker than I've experienced in other cans that offer a similar feature.
In conclusion, the best Prime Day deal for me already landed, and I won't be changing my mind(!) but if you'd like to look at a few other early deals already live now, I'll link a couple below. Stick with me, I won't let you down this Prime Day!
Other early Prime Day headphones and earbuds deals live now
The ANC quality from the QuietComfort Ultra (Gen 2) is better than any other wireless over-ear headphone on the market. Let that sink in. And yes, you can pay a lot more for premium headphones. This is a return to their lowest-ever price too! You’re also getting a lightweight and comfortable pair that is perfect for long-haul flights, and it doesn’t hurt that they look really sleek with the addition of a metallic trim. View Deal
This might just be the best early Prime Day tech deal, especially if you want Apple's iconic buds (and you'd be in good company; they're the most popular earbuds in the world for a reason). Apple's AirPods Pro 3 for a record-low price of $169? Come on! Apple's newest premium buds feature improved Active Noise Cancellation, outstanding audio, a comfortable in-ear design, and new features such as live translation and heart-rate tracking. These do-it-all buds really are 100% flagship audio, and the noise-canceling quality is outstanding.View Deal
This is the cheapest these have ever been! They've been $59 before, but this chops an extra $3 off that – hurrah! Amazon's listing their most recent $79 fee as a comparison, but make no mistake, their original MSRP is the one you see in this deal. A top saving! Highly recommended. View Deal
In terms of wireless hi-res and audiophile watchwords, you name it; it's within these over-ear headphones: LDAC, Snapdragon Sound, Planar Magnetic, aptX Adaptive, and aptX Lossless… and this is as cheap as I've ever seen them. No ANC, but if you want great sound (or someone you know does), this is the deal for you, I'm telling you. Don't believe me? See our full Edifier Stax Spirit S5 review.View Deal
The excellent EAH-AZ80 that came before this model basically tore up the rule book on sound quality and features in wireless earbuds – and the AZ100 are even better. Released in January 2025, these little beauties are still the only earbuds to offer multipoint to three devices simultaneously, plus excellent sidetone tech for hearing your own voice in calls, as well as some of the most neutral and detailed audio in an even smaller, even more premium-feel design. Oh, and the deal? It's a return to their lowest-ever price. Highly recommended. View Deal
Bose is one of the biggest names in the world of headphones, and that reputation for quality is shown in these earbuds. The Ultra Open boast incredible sound, supreme power, and excellent battery life, making them a seriously premium pair of all-around buds. Now at a record-low price (as long as certain finishes work for you), so there's no better time to buy.View Deal
Trying to sleep during a heatwave can be difficult, and even if you leave all your windows open (and risk letting insects inside), it's likely that you'll have a restless, sweaty night that leaves you feeling irritable and sluggish in the morning. To solve the problem, you need a fan — and not just any old model. Here I've picked out a selection of three of the best fans that are not only effective at keeping you cool overnight, but are whisper-quiet as well, so they won't disturb your slumber with humming or whirring.
All of these fans have received our seal of approval, and are particularly well suited to night-time use. Not only do they have dedicated bedtime modes that are near-silent, all come with a remote control so you can adjust their settings without having to get out of bed, and are very effective even on low power settings.
This is a particularly good time to shop for a fan, too, with great discounts available for Amazon Prime Day. You'll find the best prices for each of these fans below, along with links to our full reviews, so read on to find out which one is best for your bedroom.
Shark FlexBreeze Portable Fan
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Our reviewer Reece Bithrey called the Shark FlexBreeze "near-silent and incredibly versatile". It's battery-powered so you can take it from the living room to the bedroom when it's time to settle down for the night, and it can be used as a tower fan or table fan, depending on the setup of your room. You can even use it outside, with an optional misting attachment that connects to an outdoor tap (although you won't want to use that at night).
We preferred using it in on the pedestal at night, and found that the base is small enough to tuck into the corner of a compact room while its sizeable head moves a large volume of air.
There's no app control, which you get with some higher-end fans, but there is a remote control. There's no automatic vertical oscillation either, but that's not a problem when you're lying down; the horizontal motion will ensure a blanket of air moves across your sheets to keep you cool and comfortable.
The Shark FlexBreeze is great value even at full price (Reece was so impressed he bought two immediately), and I wouldn't be surprised if we see some decent discounts for Amazon Prime Day. You'll find all of today's best prices below.
Dyson fans can be expensive, but this model is the exception — more so if you find a good deal on Amazon Prime Day. Our tester Cesci Angell called it "delightfully efficient", and noted that "it operated quietly, even on the highest fan setting".
Like all Dyson fans, the Cool CF1 features a bladeless design, which means airflow is smooth and steady rather than choppy. The oscillation (if you choose to enable it) isn't quite silent, but in Sleep mode the fan "had a reading of just 35dB, which is the equivalent of a whisper, so I was able to drop off and sleep undisturbed".
Unlike the Shark FlexBreeze above, the Dyson Cool CF1 doesn't sit on a pedestal, but you can place it on your nightstand or on a cabinet for a steady blanket of air over your bed. We could feel its airflow from up to 11ft / 3.3m on the highest setting, so it will easily reach your bed, even if you have to place it some distance away.
It comes with a remote control so you can operate it from the comfort of your bed, too, with a dedicated button for enabling Night mode.
The MeacoFan 1056P is an air circulator. That means that unlike the two fans above, which blow a stream of air in one direction, the MeacoFan is designed to move a large volume of air around the room, oscillating horizontally and vertically to "draw" a large circle.
During his tests, my colleague Matt Hanson was surprised at how little noise it made, even when shifting huge volumes of air. "Not only did it do a great job at keeping us cool, even on incredibly hot days with little breeze, but it was impressively quiet — even when on higher fan speeds," he said. "So, it’s a great choice for a fan in the bedroom, as you’re unlikely to be kept awake by the noise."
Like the other two fans here, the MeacoFan has a remote that allows you to control it from your bed (and which can be attached to the fan magnetically, so you don't lose it). You can easily adjust its height to suit the layout of your bedroom, and Matt called it "a fine choice to leave on overnight while you sleep".
I used one of Meaco's air circulators during the last heatwave here in the UK, and was very impressed at how effective it was at night. I positioned it by an open window, and it quickly pulled in cooler air from outside and distributed it throughout the room — all while barely making a sound.
Upgrading any area of one's gaming setup is something I can always get behind, and regardless of budget, need, desire, or platform, I'm often able to find recommendations across all kinds of gear.
However, audiophile or high-end gaming headsets is one of my favourite areas in which to delve and recommend. We've seen a surge of new products in recent years either targeting the audiophile market directly or at least the audiophile-adjacent, premium and high-end part of the spectrum. As such, there's now a good few products to choose from nowadays.
But there's only a few I recommend over the others. Each offers something slightly different, but all are excellent and are my personal picks for the best audiophile gaming headsets going right now. They're so good, they justify their price tag even when at full price, I believe, too. So if you're looking to enhance your gaming audio ahead of GTA 6 pre-orders starting this Thursday, then check out my recommendations below.
Planar-magnetic drivers FTW
For me, the Audeze Maxwell 2 is the greatest-sounding gaming headset money can buy right now. It is now my default go-to set of cups for all gaming, no matter the genre or type of game I'm playing, and I absolutely love it.
At the core of the headset are its 90mm planar magnetic drivers, which are frankly absurd. I am a big fan of a lot of brands' default audio quality, but I have never had better audio out of the box than the Maxwell 2's. It's the best going right now, and literally can't speak highly enough about it.
The science and philosophy of Audeze really make it exquisite for those looking to get better audio for single-player games, stemming from the company's history in making premium headphones for music and media. The reality is that it is still brilliant for multiplayer games, and you also get some flexibility via the Audeze app for tweaking your own EQ settings if you need to.
There are very few chinks in the armor, but some things to be aware of might be its good but unspectacular mic, and its overall bulkiness — though I think we are all a bit too scared of headsets that are big and that weigh more than others; it's genuinely OK if a headset weighs a few more ounces or grams, don't worry! I really like the chunky feel and slightly heavier feel of the set myself, and find the set incredibly comfortable.
Otherwise, I simply cannot reiterate this again: if you really want to get the best gaming audio, and something that'll make GTA 6 sing beautifully no matter the scenario, then this is the audiophile gaming headset to buy right now.
An Elite experience
While the Maxwell 2 rules on the driver and audio quality front, if you're looking for an audiophile-level, premium headset that offers a complete solution and all the bells and whistles — along with some excellent audio, of course — that you need from a headset on any platform, the SteelSeries Arctis Nova Elite is worth considering.
It's pricey, I know, but as I said in my review, it really is the best gaming headset I've ever tested. It simply offers it all in one truly excellent package, from audio quality and versatility — you can use it across every platform, simultaneously — to feature set, build quality, comfort, and microphone performance — literally everything.
If you really want one high-grade headset to rule them all while offering audiophile-level gaming audio, then this is the upgrade to make this year, ahead of GTA 6.
It's an old one, but a great one
The PC38X is a wonderful wired audiophile-level headset which I have loved using on both PC and PS5. It sounds fantastic, and is a pretty no-nonsense gaming headset with genuine pedigree behind it.
You might see it styled as Drop + Epos PC38X or just a Drop PC38X, but whichever title you see it under, I really recommend this as a wired set for anyone who wants to keep things simple and get a brilliant-sounding open-backed set of audio givers.
It is a bit old now, but you know what they say: class and quality endures (or something like that. Now, there is one caveat with this headset, and one that is directly related to it being a slightly older model: its availability is a bit spotty. Our automatic price-finding tool below should surface the headset, however, and I have seen it with my own eyes at Amazon US and Amazon UK this week.
However, if you are looking for some wired audiophile gaming headset alternatives to the PC38X if it's not available in your region, then I have some picks for you too.
The Audeze LCD-GX is an open-back premium set of headphones that have been built for gaming. Channeling all that planar magnetic goodness that the brand is known for, these are a seriously high-end set of cups. The massive 106mm drivers pack an almighty punch and offer immense detail, while it comes with a mic, so it's a genuine wired headset option.
The Sennheiser HD 550s are one of my favorite sets of headphones from recent years, and while they may appear as another headphone offering from Sennheiser, these are definitely targeted at gamers who want higher quality audio. You'll need to buy a mic attachment separately to elevate it to a full gaming headset offering.
The Asus ROG Kithara is another option, and is a recent release into the audiophile market. Developed with HiFiMan, this headset has huge 100mm planar-magnetic drivers (not too dissimilar to the Maxwell 2), an open-backed design, and sounds wonderful.
And while not an audiophile gaming headset in the truest sense, per se, the SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro wired gaming headset is an excellent option for those looking for a complete wired gaming headset experience, with brilliant audio and all the features to boot.
Amazon and Jeremy Clarkson have announced that Clarkson's Farm season 6 is filming for the first time
The show's Facebook page previously hinted at various production 'challenges'
On Instagram, Clarkson also shared he is 'perfectly fine' following shock cancer diagnosis
Prime Video and Jeremy Clarkson have released a social media video confirming that Clarkson's Farm season 6 is currently in production (which you can watch in full below).
The news comes after the show's bombshell season 5 finale, which revealed Clarkson had been diagnosed with prostate cancer. "If all goes well, I'll see you for season 6. If not, I won't," the star had signed off on at the end of last season.
"So... bit of a year," Jeremy said via the aforementioned TikTok. "But, I'm delighted to tell you that season 6 of Clarkson's Farm is currently in production. And, that's particularly good news for me because... well, if you know, you know."
Not only is this good news for fans — despite the show's Facebook page confirming production earlier in the year — but Jeremy has also given a positive update on his health in a separate Instagram reel.
'The doctors caught the prostate cancer early'
(Image credit: Prime Video)
"The observant among you will have noticed that... well, I'm not dead," Jeremy said on his Instagram page. "And, I'm not just not dead, I'm perfectly fine... and the reason why I'm fine is because the doctors caught the prostate cancer early."
The Amazon star goes onto share the importance of getting tested, going on to tell The Times in an interview that he feels like "the world's luckiest man."
Speaking about being admitted to hospital in the season 5 finale, he added, "That was horrific and it was all my own fault. I’d been on drugs for heart issues and I had to come off them during the cancer treatment.
“Big mistake, huge. It [resulted in] a very big emergency in the middle of the night. I’m not even going to go into the treatment that was required as a result of that, because it was horrible. I didn’t ask a doctor, I just thought, ‘I’m sure it will be all right to go back on blood thinners’.”
Jeremy also confirmed that a Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) test in April 2026 showed no evidence of cancer.
In the same month, the Clarkson's Farm official Facebook page posted: "It’s now official — Clarkson’s Farm WILL RETURN for a sixth season, arriving a little later than usual in summer 2027.
"Filming has already faced a few hurdles along the way, including a break from production, positive TB [tuberculosis] testing, and relentless rain earlier this year."
When I tested the Google Fitbit Air recently, I rated its new app powered by an AI fitness coach to be quite useful, on the whole, but acknowledged that it's not for everyone. The structure of the app is messy and cluttered, and in order to create this new AI-forward app experience, the existing Fitbit app was bulldozed, with cornerstones like challenges and badges deleted.
Furious users took to forums, Reddit, YouTube comments and even our inbox to vent their frustrations. Plenty of people aren't happy that their library of historic digital rewards were deleted, and their regular app has been completed retooled into an AI experience they didn't want.
The Garmin Vivoactive 5is a fantastic all-rounder fitness smartwatch with tonnes of workout plans, a crisp AMOLED display, onboard GPS, and 11 days of battery life. At this price, you'll be hard-pressed to find a better-performing watch for general fitness, health, and exercise tracking.View Deal
A lowest-ever price on the Garmin Vivoactive 5 means there's never been a better time to snap this up. Garmin's comprehensive and (still mostly free) app has served me well for years, while the Vivoactive 5 at this price is an easly swallow for Fitbit users used to cheaper devices. View Deal
The best Garmin watches are normally very expensive, but Amazon Prime Day is an excellent opportunity to snap up a good Garmin deal. At $190 / £150, this deal on the Vivoactive 5 isn't too far off a Fitbit Charge 6's price tag, making it an ideal purchase for disenfranchised Fitbit users looking to switch.
I've personally tested this watch and it's great: it's a smartwatch yes, so you do get some notification and connection features, but it's mainly a fitness tracker and an excellent one at that, all while being equipped with Garmin's stellar GPS features.
In our review, we called it "an excellent watch for those with an active lifestyle, who might not be power users or marathon runners". I'd agree with that assessment, although it's also got the juice and some advanced in-app running features to help you train for your first marathon should you wish to do so. Now the Vivoactive 6 is out, the Vivoactive 5 is dropping to record-low prices, making it temporarily better value for budget-conscious buyers.
Nintendo has a bit of a reputation for keeping its game prices high and rarely offering discounts, especially when it comes to its biggest franchises. There was a time when a discount on the likes of Super Mario Odyssey would have been simply unheard of, but luckily things have changed.
Recently, the gaming giant has been a bit more generous with its savings, offering decent discounts on entries in some of its largest franchises. Case in point: you can buy digital first-party Switch and Switch 2 games at a wide range of discounts at Amazon right now.
These Amazon Prime Day deals net you digital codes for each of the featured games, which are delivered instantly and entirely for free. This means you can play your games in a matter of moments after buying, and not have to worry about the possibility of losing your physical cartridges.
Nintendo's latest digital game deals at Amazon
The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition [Switch 2 Digital Code]
Super Mario Odyssey [Digital Code]
Donkey Kong Country Returns HD [Digital Code]
The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom [Digital Code]
If you're looking to get a new MacBook that's capable of running the latest macOS Golden Gate and Siri AI as part of Amazon Prime Day this week, then you can now get the Apple 2024 MacBook Air 13-inch with M3 chip at Amazon for $799 (was $1,299). It's an early deal that's already gone live.
While the 2024 MacBook Air doesn't have the latest M5 processor, which you'll find in the very latest 2026 version of the laptop, it's still a solid workhorse of a Mac. It comes with a healthy 16GB of RAM — more than the new MacBook Neo, which is limited to 8GB.
That extra RAM can really help if you're doing some memory intensive tasks like editing video, working with large photo libraries, running multiple apps at once, or using AI tools that need plenty of memory to perform at their best.
A great-value older MacBook Air that still holds its own against the newer model. You get 512GB SSD storage and 16GB RAM together with an M3 chip that still feels fast. This deal knocks 38% off the 13-inch laptop's price.View Deal
Older MacBooks still perform well
When my colleague Matt Hanson reviewed the M3 MacBook Air, back in July 2024, he said, "In day-to-day use, the Apple MacBook Air 13-inch (M3) performs brilliantly". He also praised how quiet it was to run: "The efficiency of Apple’s M-series chips is that they produce less heat, and thanks to Apple’s thermal design of the modern MacBook Airs, it means the Apple MacBook Air 13-inch (M3) is completely fanless. So, even when it’s working hard, you’re not getting annoying fan noise in the background."
That's what I particularly like about the MacBook Air range — they feel like the right balance of processing power, with quiet, efficient operation in a package that is small and light enough to be genuinely portable. They fit perfectly into a bag and you also get enough battery life to keep you going all day.
While it would be nice to have the latest M5 chip that the latest model offers, there's really not that much difference between that and this older model in terms of processing speed. You're also getting 512GB SSD storage here, which is a decent amount. And in these RAM-hungy times it's really worth going back to that healthy 16GB of RAM.
I'd say this is the laptop bargain I've been waiting for.
Retired professor-turned-detective Harry Wild is back for another stint of solving crimes as the fifth season of the hit Irish detective show prepares to go on air. Jane Seymour will return alongside her sidekick, Fergus Reid (Rohan Nedd), as they embark on their most thrilling ride yet.
After the first four seasons earned an impressive 7.1 rating on IMDb, showrunner David Logan has Harry tackling a string of high-profile murder cases in the new season. Fans can expect a whiskey empire rife with corporate secrets and family rivalries, a theatre filled with hidden grudges and ego clashes, and a university plagued by academic competition and buried scandals.
Kevin Ryan and Rose O'Neill will return as Charlie and Lola, while Samantha Mumba is back as Paula Kenny. Joining the cast is a fresh face: Joe Lando, who will play the new state pathologist.
The fifth season will consist of six weekly episodes, beginning with the premiere on June 22. While the first four seasons are available to watch for free on Channel 4 in the UK, the latest season isn't – or is it? Read on to find out how to watch Harry Wild Season 5 from anywhere, including a sneaky trick to stream it for free.
Can I watch Harry Wild season 5 for free?
Unfortunately, there are no direct free streams for Harry Wild season 5. However, because Acorn TV offers a 7-day FREE trial for new subscribers, you can potentially watch a couple of episodes at no cost as they are released.
OR, you can wait until all six episodes have aired and then binge-watch the entire season during the trial period.
Elsewhere, Channel 4 in the UK is carrying the first four seasons of Harry Wild, available to watch FREE for users in the UK.
If you're traveling abroad, you can always use a VPN to unblock Channel 4 or Acorn TV and watch Harry Wild for FREE as you would at home.
How to watch Harry Wild season 5 around the world
How to watch Harry Wild season 5 online in the US, UK, Canada, and Australia?
Acorn TV will show Harry Wild season 5 around the world, including the US, the UK, Canada, and Australia.
As mentioned earlier, Acorn TV offers a 7-day FREE trial to new subscribers, meaning you can potentially watch the entire season once all episodes have been released, or simply try out the platform, without paying a single cent.
Traveling abroad? If you're currently traveling outside your home country, you can use a VPN to watch the new season from anywhere in the world. We recommend NordVPN.View Deal
How to watch Harry Wild season 5 from anywhere
If you're keen to watch Harry Wild season 5but you're away from home and access to the show is geo-blocked, then you could always use a VPN to access it (assuming you're not breaching any broadcaster T&Cs, of course). You may be surprised by how simple it is to do.
A VPN is handy piece of software that can make your device appear as if it's back in your home country, so you can unlock your usual service. The best VPN right now? We recommend NordVPN – it does everything and comes with a 75% discount, three months for free, and a generous 30-day money-back guarantee.
Not having a VPN is like leaving your front door wide open in a busy city – anyone can walk right in and take a peek.
TechRadar regularly reviews all the biggest and best VPN providers and NordVPN is our #1 choice.
✅ 3 Extra Months FREE ✅ Unlocks global streams ✅ 30-day month back guarantee
Get NordVPN and stream Harry Wild season 5 from wherever you are.VIEW DEAL ON
Using a VPN is incredibly simple, just follow these steps.
1. Install the VPN of your choice. As we've said, NordVPN is our favorite.
2. Choose the location you wish to connect to in the VPN app. For instance if you're visiting the U.S. and want to view a U.K. service, you'd select a U.K. location from the server list.
3. Sit back and enjoy the action. Head to Acorn TV and watch Harry Wild season 5 online just like you would at home.
Harry Wild season 5 Q+A
Harry Wild season 5 trailer
Harry Wild season 5 episode guide
Season 5 episode 1 | Sing Me a Deadly Song, Piano Man | June 22, 2026 Harry is pulled into a fresh investigation when a case linked to Charlie’s police work spirals into something much darker. As always, she drags Fergus into the chaos, and their partnership is tested as the stakes feel more personal than ever.
Season 5 episode 2 | Trophies | June 29, 2026 When two burglars witness politician Nicholas Samson kill a young woman, they turn to Harry for help. Suspicion spreads, a blood-stained rug surfaces, and Harry finds herself confronted by a powerful and relentless foe.
Season 5 episode 3 | Take My Whiskey Neat and My Enemies Dead | July 6, 2026 After her husband Damien's body is burned in a fire, Laura needs Harry's help to clear her of the murder. Harry and Fergus must dive into a murky family history steeped in whiskey and curious acts of sabotage.
Season 5 episode 4 | So Foul and Fair a Death I Have Not Seen | July 13, 2026 Marcus fears he'll die while playing Macbeth, in a repeat of three previous fatal performances at the theatre. And when Fergus is nearly killed on the stage, Harry digs into the theatre's troubling history.
Season 5 episode 5 | Today's Lesson is Murder | Jul 20, 2026 Scholarship student Derek is accused of killing his principal at St Barts, and Harry goes undercover to find out who is trying to frame him. She uncovers an unsettling darkness enveloping the private school.
Season 5 episode 6 | Stotious | Jul 27, 2026 When Malky has no memory of committing murder, Harry, Fergus, and Charlie must find out who benefits from the victim's death. As Harry mingles with unlikely company seeking justice, she makes a vital discovery.
Harry Wild season 5 cast
Jane Seymour as Harriet “Harry” Wild
Rohan Nedd as Fergus Reid
Kevin Ryan as Charlie Wild
Rose O’Neill as Lola Wild
Samantha Mumba as Paula Kenny
Aoife Mulholland as Orla Wild
Joe Lando as Pierce Kennedy
We test and review VPN services in the context of legal recreational uses. For example:1. Accessing a service from another country (subject to the terms and conditions of that service).2. Protecting your online security and strengthening your online privacy when abroad.We do not support or condone the illegal or malicious use of VPN services. Consuming pirated content that is paid-for is neither endorsed nor approved by Future Publishing.
NordPass survey of 7,800+ users found 40–50% still store passwords in browsers for convenience
This practice leaves credentials exposed to malware, account compromise, or device theft, especially with password reuse
Experts urge switching to passkeys or dedicated password managers with zero‑knowledge encryption for stronger protection
Most consumers still store their passwords in the browser, despite the cybersecurity community’s repeated cries over the risky practice.
Recently NordPass, a company building a password manager, polled 7,861 people in Australia, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, the UK, and the US, on their password storing habits, and learned that the vast majority (between 40% and 50%) save their secrets just in their browser.
"Convenience and ease of use dominate as the top two drivers, confirming that browser password saving is overwhelmingly a comfort-driven behavior — with cost and passive auto-save prompts playing a secondary but consistent role," says Karolis Arbaciauskas, head of product at NordPass and its parent organization, Nord Security.
Password managers are a better option
Whenever a user creates, or types in a password, the browser would offer the option to store it. However, if the device is infected with malware, if the browser account gets compromised, or if someone gains access to the computer, these passwords can easily be stolen.
To make matters worse, NordPass says that many users set the same passwords across numerous services, creating a “digital house of cards that collapses if just one account is breached.”
For years now, the cybersecurity community has been recommending either the use of passkeys, or a password manager for more secure storage. NordPass says that a small percentage of respondents combine between browsers and password managers, in which the latter is more used as a backup option. However, that backup will do little good if the browser is compromised.
"Browser-based password managers are certainly a better choice than simply reusing or slightly altering the same password everywhere. However, dedicated password managers offer distinct advantages, such as encryption based on zero-knowledge architecture. This means all data is encrypted on your device before it ever leaves your computer or smartphone, ensuring that not even the developers can access your passwords — let alone anyone else," says Arbaciauskas.
How to store passwords securely
Use a dedicated password manager
Secure your password manager using two-factor authentication
Make use of security checkup features to check for reused or weak passwords
Always use a strong, unique password for each account
Use dark web monitoring to check for leaked usernames, email addresses, and passwords
Titled 'Salt and Sea, Fire and Blood', this season's opener winds up being a blood-soaked and deadly chapter by virtue of one of the show's most brutal conflicts to date. That being the naval clash famously known as The Battle of the Gullet.
So, who perishes during House of the Dragon season 3's first major bout? And are any major characters counted among the dead? I'll answer those questions below — so, even though it goes without saying, be advised: full spoilers immediately follow for House of the Dragon season 3 episode 1.
Does Jace die in House of the Dragon's season 3 premiere?
(Image credit: HBO Max)
Yes. Jace — or, to give him his full name, Jacaerys Targaryen — is the most notable casualty of this season's first installment.
Save for a couple of substantial changes from how his death plays out in Fire and Blood, aka the George R.R. Martin-penned book that House of the Dragon is based on, Jace's demise is a direct adaptation of events that occur in said novel, too.
Indeed, in the aforementioned book and TV reimagining, Jace is killed after he's shot multiple times by crossbowmen aboard one of the Triarchy's ships. That happens after his dragon Vermax crashes into the sea and drowns, and Jace — who frees himself from Vermax before it sinks beneath the waves — finds some driftwood to cling to.
the way i screamed when that first arrow hit him even though i knew it was coming... oh jace 💔 #HOTD pic.twitter.com/83GzSuPhtdJune 22, 2026
The changes made to Martin's texts come in how the build-up to Jace's death is portrayed.
For starters, Fire and Blood doesn't explicitly state how or why Vermax tumbles into the sea. It states that Vermax is seen flying too close to the waves, and that it might have careened into the waters below after being injured by a ballista bolt or pulled down by a grapnel. In the HBO Max version of The Battle of the Gullet, a combination of the two — a giant crossbow bolt with a heavy stone weight attached to it by a chain — is ultimately what drags Vermax into the sea.
Events leading up to that moment are the root cause of Jace and Vermax's deaths, too, because the arrival of Rhaena Targaryen and Sheepstealer, aka the wide dragon she's been trying to tame.
(Image credit: HBO)
In Fire and Blood, Sheepstealer is part of The Battle of the Gullet, but it's ridden by a mysterious individual known as Nettles. Incidentally, it seems showrunner Ryan Condal has combined Rhaena and Nettles into a single person for the purpose of House of the Dragon's narrative.
But I digress. After Rhaena appears to finally tame Sheepstealer earlier in the HBO Max series' season 3 premiere, the pair stumble upon The Battle of the Gullet. Seeing this as a chance to prove herself, Rhaena instructs Sheepstealer to join the fray. Unfortunately, the actually still-untamed Sheepstealer takes a bilateral approach to proceedings, and starts raining fire on the Triarchy — aka the enemy — and Velaryon ships, which is who they're supposed to protect.
Mistaking Rhaena and Sheepstealer as foes, Jace/Vermax, along with Baela Targaryen and her dragon Moondancer, move to intercept and take them out. Long story short: Jace/Vermax get so caught up in the sky-based skirmish that follows, they're oblivious to the forthcoming weighted bolt attack that'll soon take their lives.
Is the Triarchy commander Sharako Lohar dead in House of the Dragon?
(Image credit: Ollie Upton/HBO)
Yes — and this represents another departure from Fire and Blood's depiction of The Battle of the Gullet.
'Sea and Salt, Fire and Blood' sees Lohar lose her life following a duel with Alyn of Hull, who seeks her out after what Lohar does to his estranged father and commander of the Velaryon fleet, Corlys Velaryon (more on him later). After a frantic scuffle aboard a sinking ship, Alyn eventually wins the day by fatally stabbing Lohar, and letting her body sink into the depths.
However, in Fire and Blood, Lohar not only survives The Battle of the Gullet, but is said to have won it. In the literature, Lohar is eventually murdered by a rival some years later following The Daughters' War, aka a civil war between the Triarchy's factions. With House of the Dragon not expected to cover this event as part of its overarching story, though, it makes sense for theGame of Thronesprequel to kill off Lohar during The Battle of the Gullet.
Is Corlys Velaryon, aka the Sea Snake, dead in House of the Dragon?
(Image credit: HBO)
We don't know yet, because Corlys' fate is left unknown by the time that season 3 episode 1 ends. Indeed, after he's thrown overboard during his own clash with Lohar, we never see him again.
So, is Corlys alive or dead? I'd prefer not to ruin that surprise, dear reader. All I'll refer you to is the age-old entertainment business phrase "no body, no death" — that being, if we don't physically see someone's corpse on the screen, the chances are their time has not come yet...
What happens to Tyland Lannister and Jason Lannister in House of the Dragon season 3 episode 1?
(Image credit: HBO Max)
The same principle applies to one of the Lannister twins in Tyland.
Indeed, after Lohar's flagship — aka the Bitchfist — pursues Corlys' vessel through a perilous, extremely narrow rocky passage during low tide, the former comes close to being dashed on the rocks. In a bid to reduce the Bitchfist's weight and help it float better to avoid the jagged rocks below, Lohar pushes a heavily-armored Tyland overboard. Like Corlys, then, Tyland's fate is unclear.
We can't say the same about his brother Jason, though. At the end of a Riverlands-based battle that sees Daemon Targaryen's forces triumph over Jason's, we learn the latter has been slain and beheaded by Roderick Dustin. He's the leader of the Winter Wolves, who swear their allegiance to Team Black, aka those who have sided with Rhaenyra Targaryen amid the Targaryen Civil War, otherwise known as the Dance of the Dragons.
Did you enjoy House of the Dragon season 3's opening episode? And do you think Corlys and/or Tyland are still alive or not? Let me know in the comments.
Scaling a billion-dollar company in Europe has historically been more difficult than it should be. Not because there aren't enough ambitious founders; rather, it’s because the conditions to scale, regulatory and funding constraints to name but two, have never fully matched the ambition.
However, the game is changing. AI is rapidly making those ‘constraints’ less relevant and with the rise of multi-agent systems, startups can operate with the capability of a larger organization.
The question now is no longer whether Europe can produce the next wave of ‘soonicorns’, (startups nearing a $1 billion valuation), but whether decision-makers are willing to abandon outdated models and build for an AI-native future.
If they do, we will soon see a new foundation for European startups, one where agility, enterprise-grade governance and AI-native architecture are baked-in from the outset.
The architectural opportunity
Europe is not short of successful startups. However, for the region to continue producing top players, we will need to see proactive change from companies - adding intelligent AI features to an existing process or product simply won’t be enough. It involves rebuilding a company’s organizational structure, something that’s only possible by multi-agent systems.
Startups no longer need to wait until they have the necessary resources to take on complicated operations. Instead, they can break those issues down into specific, identifiable problems and assign specialized AI agents to tackle them. These agents will be coordinated, efficient, and able to operate at a speed that is incomparable to a human team.
The knock-on effects are huge. Product cycles shrink and teams can concentrate their efforts on tasks that genuinely call for human judgement. Additionally, technical expertise is no longer restricted to well-funded teams, since vibe coding speeds up prototyping and AI lowers the barrier to building advanced systems. For Europe to take the lead on AI, it must start with its data foundations.
The database problem nobody is talking about
AI strategy is often the main topic of conversation in boardrooms across Europe – which models are appropriate, what use cases should be prioritized and which teams to hire. Infrastructure is often, mistakenly, absent from that discussion. In particular, the database infrastructure that the majority of companies are still developing and why it can be subtly hampering the startups with the greatest potential.
Traditional databases were designed for the past, built for slow applications, fixed infrastructure and data that is handled by humans. This worked well until AI agents came into the conversation.
AI agents require quick, dependable and instantaneous data access to perform real-time, complex actions. For startups attempting to scale quickly, building on the correct foundations is the difference between stalling and success.
The infrastructure conversation is finally catching up, with a concept known as lakebase designed to support this transition. It delivers the reliability of an operational database and the openness of a data lake in one centralized place, so teams can run transactions and analytics without juggling systems.
It enables fast access to data, scales easily through separated storage and compute, and fits modern development habits like instant branching and versioning. A lakebase gives founders an edge that previous startups never had; the opportunity for both their developers and AI agents to build, test, and ship applications quickly, without the constraints of old online transaction processing (OLTP) setups.
What founders must change now
With AI progressing at an unexplainable rate and investors asking questions, a knee-jerk reaction is usually to add a new AI capability to what currently exists. However, this is a short-term solution to a long-term problem.
Startups that approach AI as structural rather than an add-on will define what comes next. This involves raising challenging issues early on, such as how this business should be built if AI is doing a large amount of the work, rather than just what AI is capable of achieving for this product.
Instead of figuring it out after the company has scaled, founders are forced to make architectural decisions early, establishing what agents own and how they work together to make sure humans are kept in the loop.
It also means realising that governance and speed work in tandem. The entrepreneurs who incorporate guardrails early enough that they never become a barrier are the ones who grow the fastest. Integrated into the design from the start, enterprise-grade governance is a hidden competitive advantage. Instead of having to rush to catch up later, it enables you to scale with certainty.
Build it right or build it twice
The time has arrived for Europe, but it won't wait for businesses to continue bolting AI onto infrastructures that weren't designed to support it.
Soonicorns won't be determined by how much they raised, how many AI tools they have used or, how fast they delivered. They will be characterized by the caliber of the decisions made about AI-native architecture, AI agents, and whether or not humans are involved.
The tools are there and the market is shifting. Whether European founders are prepared to build with the same ambition they offer is the only true question that remains. When leaders build the appropriate unified data foundations, everything else will fall into place.
This article was produced as part of TechRadar Pro Perspectives, our channel to feature the best and brightest minds in the technology industry today.
The views expressed here are those of the author and are not necessarily those of TechRadarPro or Future plc. If you are interested in contributing find out more here: https://www.techradar.com/pro/perspectives-how-to-submit
Android 17 is causing touchscreen issues for a number of Pixel owners
Google is aware of the issue and has suggested some solutions, but these seemingly haven't worked for most people
Another fix suggested on Reddit appears to work better, but still not for everyone
Android 17 hasn’t had the smoothest of starts, with some early updaters reporting issues with Wi-Fi and 5G connections, and now yet another bug has emerged — this time affecting the touchscreen.
According to various Reddit users (via Android Authority), the update to Android 17 has led to touchscreen issues, including the screen scrolling in the opposite direction to the one they swiped, completely ignoring taps, and there being dead zones where the screen is unresponsive.
It’s hard to say how widespread this issue is, but there are multiple Reddit threads about it, and it has also been submitted to Google’s issue tracker. So if you haven’t updated to Android 17 yet, you might want to hold off — though it seems the Google Pixel 6 series at least might be unaffected.
The good news is that Google is aware of the bug, as not only has it been submitted to the company’s issue tracker, but an official Google account actually replied to one of the Reddit threads, suggesting a couple of possible fixes.
Various Android 17 features (Image credit: Google)
Three possible fixes
These included clearing the cache, by going to Settings > Apps > See all apps > Pixel Launcher app > Storage & cache > Clear cache. If that doesn’t work the other suggestion was to boot your phone into safe mode and see if that fixes the problem.
To do this on a Pixel 6 or newer that’s currently switched on, press and hold the power button for a few seconds, and then tap and hold either the ‘Power off’ or ‘Restart’ option, followed by tapping ‘OK’. If your phone is off, you instead want to press the power button, and then when the animation starts, press and hold the volume down button until the animation ends.
In either case your phone will say ‘safe mode’ at the bottom of the screen once it starts up, and if this does fix the problem then the issue is a third-party app, so you should temporarily remove these one by one, starting with the most recent ones, until you find the culprit.
But while that’s the official Google advice, it doesn’t appear to have worked for many people. What does seem to have worked slightly more widely is a suggestion to turn off the triple-tap magnification shortcut.
To do this, head to Settings > Accessibility > Magnification, then either turn off ‘Magnification shortcut’, or tap on it and change the magnification option to something other than ‘Triple-tap screen’. However it's unclear whether this has worked for everyone or not.
So if none of the above resolves the problem for you, then unfortunately you’ll probably have to wait for Google to roll out a proper fix. Let’s just hope that doesn’t take long.
Most companies don’t understand that today’s AI tools are capable of fundamentally transforming how daily knowledge work is done.
This is because they’re using AI in an unsophisticated way and aiming it at the wrong place.
But this level of transformation is already happening, as millions of knowledge workers have figured out, and as enlightened companies are starting to recognize.
To delve deeper, you first need to understand that most knowledge work is invisible. The essence of knowledge work—thinking, processing, judging, ruminating, planning, mulling—happens in workers’ heads, unseen.
Unfortunately, workplace AI is currently deployed into the knowledge systems that are visible, the outputs —emails, documents, chats, meetings, etc. It doesn’t matter how good the AI is, because when it operates at this level, it’s too late to really transform how the work is done.
To give a practical example, when you need to create a project deliverable, 80% of your effort is likely spent creating the first draft, with the remaining 20% polishing into a final deliverable. AI workplace assistants do a great job with that final polish (which we like, thank you). But to truly transform how work is done, you need AI to help with the underlying, unseen 80% effort used to create the first draft.
The real opportunity: A practical model for AI-driven work
The good news is AI is fully capable to help transform that 80%. This does not require waiting for “better” models or AGI. All you need to do is change how you’re using AI today, by integrating existing LLM-based tools into that invisible thinking portion of your work, rather than just keeping it at the surface-level work outputs.
While the AI vendors haven’t exactly made this intuitive (yet), using AI in this way has exploded in popularity since the beginning of 2026. In practice, the basic approach is to use AI the way software developers do, not as a one-off tool but as something that builds context over time.
Move beyond web-based interfaces where every conversation restarts from scratch
Create a centralized repository, put your critical files into a folder on the business computer which you give AI access to. Start with the classic things (deliverables, meeting notes, project plans, etc.)
Before doing any work, ask AI to interview you about your work style, what’s important to you and your personal preferences.
Review and refine AI’s understanding, ask it to scan through all your files to synthesize your latest thinking, ideas, story arcs, writing style and any other “intelligence” it can determine from your work. Review its findings and go back-and-forth until you feel it has a good understanding of you, your work and your style.
Build upon each session. A crucial step is having the AI tool understand this is not a one-time or manual exercise. Instead, a continued process to create, maintain, organize and update the files, based on what it learns about you over time, each subsequent AI session builds on all the work you’ve done together and what it has learned about you.
In essence, you are asking your AI to create a personal Wikipedia-style repository which gives your AI system an ever-growing continuous context library perfectly built and tuned just for you and your work.
Using AI like this doesn't require a new product or company, but a new way to leverage current tools. This is often called a “second brain”, “AI context vault”, “LLM-powered personal Wiki”, or something similar, and you can do this with any LLM vendor or product.
Most AI vendors now allow users to connect their LLM platforms into other business systems (like email, chat, document stores or productivity suites), which lets workers connect their personal knowledge systems into corporate apps and data.
Workers who use AI in this new way report fundamental shifts in the way they work within the first few hours. After a few days, many workers declare they will never go back to the “old way” of working again.
The tradeoffs to consider
Using AI to transform work in this way is not without its downsides, especially from the corporate perspective.
First, all the “classic” security complexities still apply: How do you know the AI did what it said it was going to do? How do you know it didn’t hallucinate? How do you trust it won’t spin out of control and email all your contacts with nonsense?
Addressing this involves many of the things you probably know but haven’t taken time to investigate yet, including configuring alternate accounts with restricted permissions for AI or setting clear guidelines for when and how AI-generated outputs will be reviewed.
This new process also requires asking workers to slow down and verify what their AI generates, which is pretty much the opposite of why they started using AI in the first place.
Another challenge is visibility. Much of the “back-and-forth” work - which previously happened in the open - now happens within the AI tool and the worker’s personal context vault, where it’s less visible to coworkers and management scrutiny. Individual workers view that as a positive, but to organizations, it can be a liability.
Lastly, when workers build personal AI context vaults using their personal AI subscriptions, the company can’t prevent the worker from taking all that context with them when they leave the company. Companies need to buy proper enterprise AI subscriptions which they can link to corporate SSO and DLP systems. The downside is that enterprise AI pricing is completely different from consumer pricing, and workers using AI like this via enterprise systems can easily consume thousands of dollars of tokens per month.
The bottom line is that today’s AI can fundamentally transform work, but only if there is a mindset reset around how it is being used.
This new approach introduces added complexity. Organizations will need to spend more time understanding, managing, and securing AI differently, but it’s clear that AI operating in this way is inevitable, so the time to start thinking about AI as a “second brain” is now.
This article was produced as part of TechRadar Pro Perspectives, our channel to feature the best and brightest minds in the technology industry today.
The views expressed here are those of the author and are not necessarily those of TechRadarPro or Future plc. If you are interested in contributing find out more here: https://www.techradar.com/pro/perspectives-how-to-submit
As far as fictional parties go, 10 Petal ranch's 190-year anniversary bash in Dutton Ranch episode 7 was pretty tame.
Most of it went without a hitch, with even Beth (Kelly Reilly) and Rip (Cole Hauser) blending into the background. Rob-Will (Jai Courtney) returned home to bully mom Beulah (Annette Bening) into changing her plans for the ranch's successor... and it works.
Shortly after Beulah announces that Rob-Will will be taking her place — and almost everybody else around them has objected — Beulah falls to the floor, potentially on the brink of death.
All has yet to be revealed in the Yellowstone spinoff, but Dutton Ranch fans have been distracted by something (and someone) much more unfulfilling. Does the new Paramount+ show need a drastic shakeup already?
Dutton Ranch fans want to see less of Carter — and his painful on-off romance with Oreana
(Image credit: Paramount)
Yep, that's right — Dutton Ranch fans are practically begging for Beth and Rip's adopted "son" Carter (Finn Little) to have less screentime.
"I know I should care about Carter as I used to on Yellowstone. But in my opinion, there are too many scenes with him and not enough of the other characters. Honestly, he bores me," one fan posted on Reddit.
A second agreed, "His character is poorly written this time and that combined with Oreana (Natalie Alyn Lind) makes it a hard watch. I hope it develops a bit but I don't expect too much."
"Yeah, teenage angst is not why I watch," a third chipped in.
Up until episode 5, Carter's healthy screentime made sense. He needed to get settled into Rio Paloma, and he's the only character who actively protests against the family's move from Montana.
He was also embroiled in the death of Dwight (Ray McKinnon), which has emphasized his internal battle between being a boy and a man. But for many, it's this that is Dutton Ranch's "toughest watch."
"Love the show but I hope the high school subplot ends soon," one fan writes, as another adds, "I get the whole teenage angst thing. But he's still an annoying little sh*t."
A third weighs in, "I was hoping the Dwight situation would be a subplot like Joe Exotic or something interesting. The older gf looks 30 and it’s not as interesting unless Beth goes after her soon and takes care of it."
With Oreana now seemingly gravitating towards another love interest, Carter's teen angst could actually be kicked up a notch. But with two episodes of Dutton Ranch left to go, anything is possible.
Significant skill shortages have more than tripled since last year
Workers are even lacking in basic digital literacy and skills
Four in five London companies are increasing training investment
In a survey of more than 2,000 London business leaders, one in two believe their workforce doesn't currently have the skills required to meet their AI adoption needs.
Though this is a decrease compared with 63% last year, it still leaves half of companies struggling to keep pace with AI.
However, the proportion of businesses reporting significant skill shortages rose to 15% this year, compared with just 4% last year, implying that even basic training isn't being taken care of.
The AI skill shortage is growing
According to BusinessLDN, this is the highest level recorded since the annual survey began. But besides significant skill shortages, more than a third (35%) also warned they face moderate shortages.
AI aside, 60% also noted a lack of advanced digital skills and 23% shared a lack of even the most basic digital skills, but while companies don't have the human capacity to develop AI strategies at this point, three in four have gone down the route regardless.
"While London businesses are embracing AI, many are finding it challenging to stay on top of their workforce skills needs given the pace of change," Policy Delivery Director for People and Skills Mark Hilton wrote (via the BBC).
It's this exact lack of digital and AI skills that could be creating jobs in the short term, though, because four in five (83%) businesses revealed they had job vacancies – an opposite narrative to multiple reports that argue AI is replacing entry-level roles. Supporting that, three-quarters (76%) don't expect to cut headcount, suggesting we could finally have reached a balance after earlier mass layoffs.
But while countless surveys reveal that companies aren't supporting their workers with the right upskilling schemes, London looks to be doing things differently with 81% planning to increase training investment over the next year.
Cape Fear continues to fascinate and freak outApple TV subscribers, with the adaptation of the iconic story getting more tense by the day as the Bowdens continue to be terrorized by Max Cady.
We've also been introduced to some intriguing new characters like prison owner Ed Coburn and the mysterious Amber, who comforts Natalie Bowden after a humiliating social media incident. So there's a lot going on and plenty to unravel.
What time can I watch Cape Fear episode 5 on Apple TV?
We're expecting Cape Fear episode 5 to be available on Apple TV on June 26 at 12am PT / 3am ET. Episodes will then drop weekly until the finale on July 31.
Internationally, look out for the below times:
US – 12am PT / 3am ET
Canada – 12am PT / 3am ET
UK – 8am BST
India – 12:30pm IST
Singapore – 3pm SGT
Australia – 6pm AEST
New Zealand – 8pm NZDT
When do new episodes of Cape Fear come out on Apple TV?
Has Beulah (Annette Bening) actually been left for dead after falling to the floor at the end of Dutton Ranch episode 7? My gut says no... but when it comes to Rio Paloma, nothing can be second guessed.
Last week's 10 Petal anniversary party saw Rob-Will (Jai Courtney) officially announced as Beulah's successor, upsetting not just Joaquin (Juan Pablo Raba), but almost everybody that Beulah is directly in business with.
Obviously, it's all going to end in tears. But when doesDutton Ranch episode 8 land on Paramount+?
What time can I watch Dutton Ranch episode 8 on Paramount+?
Dutton Ranch episode 8 will drop on one of the world's best streaming services on Friday, June 26.
Like The Madisonand Landman, we can expect the episode to arrive at 12am PT. Here's when it will be released in other nations globally:
US – 12am PT / 3am ET
Canada – 12am PT / 3am ET
UK – 8am BST
India – 1:30pm IST
Singapore – 4pm SGT
Australia – 7pm AEDT
New Zealand – 9pm NZDT
When do new episodes of Dutton Ranch come out?
(Image credit: Paramount+)
Dutton Ranch will have a total of nine episodes, airing weekly after its two-episode premiere. That gives us the following schedule:
The UK’s autonomous vehicle (AV) sector is entering a period of rapid acceleration. With London preparing for the rollout of driverless taxi services later this year, and regulatory backing strengthened by the Automated Vehicles Act, the shift from experimentation to deployment is becoming tangible.
That momentum is already visible on the capital’s streets. Waymo is currently testing its autonomous ride-hailing service in London, navigating complex urban environments ahead of its planned commercial launch. But as physical deployment accelerates, a more fundamental bottleneck is emerging.
The central challenge is no longer whether autonomous vehicles can navigate roads, but whether the industry can consistently demonstrate that they are making safe, compliant decisions in real-world conditions.
Without that capability, progress toward higher levels of autonomy will stall, regardless of how advanced the underlying driving systems become.
The industry’s hidden bottleneck
Recent incidents in London illustrate the challenge. Reports of an AV entering a taped-off crime scene in Harlesden, or repeatedly turning into a Shoreditch no-through road, highlight how unpredictable dynamic urban environments remain for automated systems. Modern AV systems already perform well at perception.
Using combinations of cameras, LiDAR, radar and AI models, vehicles can detect lanes, pedestrians and hazards with increasing accuracy, and AV companies have now logged tens of millions of autonomous miles globally.
However, the real challenge lies in the transition to Level 4 autonomy, where legal liability shifts from the human driver to the manufacturer. To secure regulatory approval and public trust, companies must be able to explain exactly why a system behaved the way it did in ambiguous situations, such as navigating a temporary road layout, conflicting signals, or unusual pedestrian behavior.
This is where current machine learning approaches fall short. While effective at pattern recognition, they typically operate as “black boxes,” offering limited insight into how individual decisions are reached. In a safety-critical sector like automotive, this lack of transparency creates a major commercial and regulatory constraint.
Manufacturers and regulators need definitive evidence that systems are acting in accordance with local road rules before they can deploy at scale.
The missing layer in autonomous intelligence
To bridge this gap, the industry is increasingly turning to knowledge-based AI, an alternative to large language models that uses carefully curated expert knowledge and structured reasoning to correctly answer complex, high-stakes questions.
Unlike purely data-driven models that infer behavior statistically from past training data, knowledge-based systems combine sensor inputs with explicitly defined rules, traffic laws and domain expertise. Rather than relying solely on probability, they enable vehicles to reason through decisions using structured logic.
That distinction is critical in autonomous driving, where edge cases are difficult to predict and regulatory scrutiny is high. While machine learning remains essential for perception and pattern recognition, knowledge-based AI provides a clearer chain of reasoning behind vehicle behavior.
Decisions can be traced directly back to the rules and logic that produced them, making systems easier to interrogate, validate, and audit.
In practice, this creates several advantages. Engineers gain greater visibility into how systems behave in complex scenarios, helping them identify failure points and improve performance.
It also makes systems easier to adapt for different markets, as local driving rules and compliance requirements can be updated through the reasoning layer rather than retraining or redesigning the entire AI system. This allows manufacturers to scale AV platforms more efficiently across jurisdictions.
From autonomous driving to auditable autonomy
Rather than replacing machine learning, knowledge-based AI acts as a supervisory reasoning layer, applying structured rules and safety logic to monitor and validate vehicle behavior in real time. The result is not simply a vehicle that can act autonomously, but one that can justify its actions.
And the implications extend well beyond autonomous driving. As AI systems are deployed in domains where decisions carry legal, financial or safety consequences, the question of how those decisions are produced becomes as important as the outcome itself.
This is already becoming a defining issue in sectors such as financial services and healthcare, where regulators increasingly expect companies to explain how AI-driven decisions are made.
Ultimately, knowledge-based AI enables AI systems to incorporate defined rules and reasoning into their decision making, rather than relying solely on statistical prediction. In autonomous vehicles, this could take the form of validating maneuvers against traffic laws before execution, but the same principle applies wherever decisions must be explainable, defensible, and auditable.
As AI becomes more deeply embedded in critical infrastructure and public services, the ability to evidence how decisions are made will move from a desirable feature to a baseline requirement across industries.
Proof over performance
The AV industry is often framed as a race to build vehicles that can drive themselves. Increasingly, however, the real challenge is building systems that can explain and justify their decisions in a way regulators, manufacturers and the public can trust.
Knowledge-based AI offers a definitive route to solving that problem. By combining machine learning with structured reasoning, it enables manufacturers not only to improve autonomous behavior, but to explain why systems acted as they did.
For the UK, long-term leadership in autonomous mobility will not be determined by perception systems alone. It will depend on which companies can deliver AI that is demonstrably safe, compliant, and auditable at scale.
This article was produced as part of TechRadar Pro Perspectives, our channel to feature the best and brightest minds in the technology industry today.
The views expressed here are those of the author and are not necessarily those of TechRadarPro or Future plc. If you are interested in contributing find out more here: https://www.techradar.com/pro/perspectives-how-to-submit
Amazon Prime Day is a great time to snap up a new coffee maker, with huge discounts on top-rated machines from big brands. Personally I'm a big fan of De'Longhi's espresso machines, and they usually receive deep discounts for Amazon Prime Day that make them even easier to recommend.
Here I've rounded up three De'Longhi coffee makers that I think are likely to get big price cuts this Prime Day. All of these machines have received a full five stars from our expert reviewers, and would be an excellent pick for your kitchen.
There are two semi-automatic coffee makers here, with different levels of guidance to help you brew the ideal espresso, and a fully automatic machine that handles the entire process for you; so whether you're looking for your first coffee maker or just want to upgrade, there's something for you here.
De'Longhi La Specialista Touch
FutureFutureFutureFutureFutureFutureFutureFuture
The La Specialista Touch is one of the best semi-automatic coffee makers I've used, and its surprisingly compact size makes it a great option for small kitchens.
Whether you're looking for your first espresso machine, or planning to shift from a capsule coffee maker to fresh beans, it will guide you through the process of preparing a perfectly extracted shot of espresso and help you understand how different factors (such as dosage, grind size, and tamping) affect the flavor of your drink.
It comes with a smart dosing tool and a calibrated tamper that help you with the more technical parts of the process, and its Bean Adapt system suggests specific brew settings for the beans you're using, but you're also encouraged to tinker until you're satisfied with the way the coffee tastes. Once you are, you can save your custom settings for future use.
The La Specialista Touch maintains steady temperature and pressure so your results are consistent each time, and it has an excellent steam wand as well, with automatic and manual foaming options. A great all-rounder.
Another great semi-automatic espresso machine from De'Longhi, the La Specialista Arte Evo is similar to the Touch, but doesn't give you quite as much of a helping hand along the way. It's still easy to use, with an excellent burr grinder and highly customizable settings, but it offers a set of physical control dials rather than a touchscreen, and lets you take the reins earlier on in the process.
New home baristas shouldn't be deterred though; the Arte Evo is a joy to use, and makes mastering essential skills fun. Our reviewer Cesci Angell soon got grips with it (partly thanks to De'Longhi's handy YouTube videos) and reported that "thanks to the helpful tips in the quick guide it was easy to determine the perfect grind coarseness, dosage, and techniques to create tasty cups of coffee."
This coffee maker is great value at full price, and often gets a very generous discount that makes it even easier to recommend.
The De'Longhi Rivelia is a fully automatic espresso machine,. meaning it handles the entire coffee-making process for you. Just add your beans, water and milk, press a button, and you'll have a perfect espresso, macchiato, or cappuccino ready to enjoy in a couple of minutes. Our reviewer Josephine Watson called it "easily one of the best bean-to-cup machines available right now" and awarded it a full five stars.
The Rivelia also has one of my favorite features: a swappable bean hopper, so you can switch between two different types of coffee on the fly. I drink regular coffee in the morning and decaf during the afternoon, so this makes my life a whole lot easier. The Bean Adapt technology adapts the brew settings to suit whichever coffee you're using, so you don't have to worry about tweaking factors like dosage, temperature, and pre-infusion time yourself.
There's a huge menu of drinks (all of which are customizable to suit your tastes) and the color display makes it simple to find the one you want to prepare. The Rivelia is surprisingly compact as well, and won't dominate your kitchen like some automatic coffee makers. If you want to enjoy delicious coffee with the minimum of fuss, it's one to watch on Prime Day.
The reported cyber attack involving Canvas and the subsequent ransomware payment will inevitably trigger familiar debates around paying ransomwares.
Most organizations facing ransomware attacks avoid publicly confirming whether a payment was made. Even where payments occur, communications are typically cautious, limited, or deliberately ambiguous.
Admitting to a ransomware payment creates legal, regulatory, reputational, and ethical complications. It can invite scrutiny from customers, insurers, regulators, and shareholders. It may also create concern that the organization has become vulnerable to future extortion attempts.
On one hand, transparency can be viewed positively. Stakeholders increasingly expect honesty during cyber incidents, particularly where personal data is involved. Attempting to conceal the reality of an attack can create longer-term trust issues if details later emerge through other channels.
For many organizations, the decision to pay a ransom is ultimately driven by operational and financial calculations rather than principle alone. If they don’t have things like ransomware protection, backups, or logs it makes it an almost impossible task to recover.
Cyber insurers, legal advisers, and incident response firms may conclude that prolonged recovery, forensic investigation, service restoration, regulatory management, and reputational damage could cost substantially more than the ransom demand itself.
Pressure to restore services
In sectors like education, where downtime directly affects students, exams, coursework, and institutional continuity, the pressure to restore services quickly can become commercially and socially overwhelming.
That does not make payment risk-free or strategically desirable, but it does explain why some organizations determine that the immediate cost of disruption outweighs the uncertainty and expense of a prolonged recovery process.
However, transparency also exposes a more uncomfortable reality within modern ransomware incidents: it does in fact pay to be a cybercriminal.
Yet focusing solely on the ransom payment itself misses the larger issue.
This incident appears to reinforce a wider trend emerging across modern digital platforms: attackers are increasingly exploiting trust itself.
Reports suggest threat actors abused Canvas “Free-For-Teacher” accounts, leveraging a legitimate platform capability designed to support accessibility and adoption. Rather than forcing entry through traditional technical weaknesses, the attackers operated within accepted trust boundaries.
For education providers, this creates a particularly difficult balance. Platforms are intentionally designed to reduce friction for teachers, students, and external collaborators. Accessibility is part of the value proposition. However, the same openness that enables rapid adoption can also create opportunities for malicious actors to blend into normal platform activity.
This is not simply a security engineering issue. It is a governance issue around how digital trust is granted and monitored at scale.
Identity has become the primary security boundary
Cybersecurity strategies historically concentrated on protecting networks, endpoints, and data centers. Increasingly, those controls sit behind identity systems that determine who is trusted, what access they receive, and how quickly they can move through interconnected platforms.
Modern ransomware groups and financially motivated actors increasingly prefer credential abuse, social engineering, and exploitation of trusted workflows because they are often less visible than conventional intrusion methods. A valid account can bypass many of the controls designed to detect malicious behavior.
The challenge becomes even more pronounced in education as, unlike tightly controlled corporate environments, educational ecosystems are inherently decentralized. Institutions regularly support temporary users, external educators, contractors, collaborative learning environments, and remote access requirements. The result is a digital environment where trust relationships are broad by design.
That creates a difficult strategic question for providers and customers alike: how do you preserve accessibility without creating exploitable trust pathways?
The human consequences are often underestimated
Cyber incidents are still frequently measured through technical metrics: records exposed, systems encrypted, or hours of downtime incurred. Those measures rarely capture the wider societal impact.
In education environments, disruption affects students during formative periods of their lives. Exam preparation, coursework submission, academic continuity, and communication channels can all be interrupted simultaneously. Parents and educators face uncertainty around outcomes they cannot directly control.
There is also a more uncomfortable consideration in that educational platforms frequently contain data relating to minors. Even where sensitive information is not immediately weaponized, long-term exposure risks remain difficult to quantify. Personal information tied to younger individuals may retain value for years through identity fraud, social engineering, or future credential abuse.
The emotional dimension of cyber attacks is still poorly understood within many boardrooms because it does not fit neatly into conventional risk reporting.
The due diligence dilemma
Most schools, colleges, and mid-sized organizations cannot realistically perform deep technical assurance assessments against large SaaS vendors. Procurement teams are often left reviewing compliance certifications, security statements, audit summaries, and contractual language that may provide only partial visibility into actual operational practices.
This creates an accountability imbalance.
Customers remain responsible for protecting their own stakeholders and data, yet their ability to validate supplier resilience is constrained by commercial scale and information asymmetry.
That challenge is not unique to Canvas. It reflects a broader maturity gap across the SaaS market.
Many providers publish extensive security documentation, but external assurance still struggles to address practical questions such as: What assumptions are made about “legitimate” users? What controls exist around free-tier or trial account creation?
For customers, obtaining meaningful answers to these questions can be difficult without substantial procurement influence and the result is a market where trust is often inferred rather than verified.
The larger issue beneath the incident
The reported Canvas ransomware payment will understandably drive debate around criminal incentives and incident response decisions. Yet the more strategic question sits elsewhere.
The challenge for organizations is no longer confined to protecting infrastructure from external intrusion. It is understanding where trust is granted, how legitimacy is established, and what happens when a trusted platform becomes the weakest link in a much larger interconnected ecosystem.
That is not merely a cyber security concern.
It is becoming a fundamental business risk question about dependency, governance, and the fragility of digital trust at scale.
This article was produced as part of TechRadar Pro Perspectives, our channel to feature the best and brightest minds in the technology industry today.
The views expressed here are those of the author and are not necessarily those of TechRadarPro or Future plc. If you are interested in contributing find out more here: https://www.techradar.com/pro/perspectives-how-to-submit
94% of HR leaders predict new entry-level job creation as a result of AI
Most see these roles evolving into AI supervisor roles
Soft skills are most in-demand, training isn't keeping up
Although AI has proven to automate some of the lowest-value work, making it difficult for recent graduates to find jobs, new Cognizant and Pearson joint research suggests this could just be a temporary effect that could all be about to change, with an overwhelming majority (94%) of HR leaders expecting AI to create entirely new entry-level jobs in the next five years.
But the definition of entry-level work is also undergoing a change, with 96% believing they will evolve into supervisory and managerial roles.
More than 90% say middle managers will end up playing a critical role in redesigning these jobs and defining what work looks like.
Entry-level roles aren't going, they're just changing
A similarly high number (91%) of HR leaders have reported that employee demand for AI training has increased over the past year as junior workers seek opportunities to manage AI systems, however with only half (54%) of organizations providing AI training, they're not being supported.
As for graduates themselves, the most in-demand skills no longer come from specialized degrees. Nearly all (97%) hirers think adaptability, problem-solving and human judgment are now more important.
The report argues that organizations need to rethink how they support employees throughout their careers, but 60% admit their learning and development programs can't keep page with AI's pace.
"As work evolves, the most successful organizations will focus less on replacing tasks and more on building the capabilities that help humans and AI work together," Pearson CHRO Ali Bebo said.
While the study concludes that entry-level workers and graduates may not be at as much risk as they'd thought from AI, they could stand out from taking charge of their own upskilling as employers struggle to keep up.
Solstice 8 floorstanders, Solstice 3 shelf speaker, plus C3 centre channel
An all-new bespoke tweeter is their big selling point
You thought the summer solstice was on June 21? Perhaps, but the Triangle Solstice falls one day later apparently. That's because French audio brand Triangle has unveiled its latest family of audio products called, you guessed it, the Solstice.
This new family consists of three major releases. First, there's the Solstice 8 floorstanding speakers, which are joined, for space-savers, by the Solstice 3 bookshelf speakers, and rounding out the family is the C3 centre channel. Depicted above, you see the Solstice 8.
I've reported on a fair few floorstanders at this point, and the Triangle Solstice 8's asking price feels a little lower than the normal cost. A pair will sell for $2,799 / £1,999 (about AU$4,000), which naturally isn't cheap, but it's still cheaper. Just last week I covered another pair of speakers from Focal which cost 87.5 times the Solstice 8 so you know, there's that…
The bookshelf speakers are naturally cheaper. You can buy the Solstice 3 for $1,349 / £999 (about AU$2,000) per pair, and the C3 costs $750 / £579 (about AU$1,080), though the standard price of those kinds of products can get a lot lower than floor-standers.
Triangle's Solstice range goes on sale later in June, through whichever hi-fi retailers in your area the brand works with.
Needs more Triangle
(Image credit: Triangle)
It seems like a key selling point of the new Triangle Solstice range is the horn tweeter found in each of the three products, which was designed specifically for the range. It is arch-shaped, made from die-cast aluminum, and is designed to reduce resonance.
It's a refreshing change since most of the time, when I'm reporting on new speakers it feels like mid-bass or low-end is the focus. I've written about all kinds of woofer technology, and have had my socks blown off in all kinds of directions by thumping bass in listening demonstrations. Putting high-end as the focal point feels unusual today.
The tweeter is joined by 16cm mid-woofers; two in the C3, one in the 3, and none in the 8 (that gets 16mm drivers too, but there's one midrange and two woofers). These are made from cellulose pulp, in order to offer a neutral sound profile.
The Solstice 3 and C3 both get single terminals for connecting, while the Solstice 8 gets a dual terminal, with bi-wiring and bi-amping to avoid any mixed signals or distortion.
Each member of the Solstice range comes in teak, birch, black ash or... white. The latter isn't white-looking wood (such as ash, perhaps), it's just... white. Perhaps not the most unique-looking speakers I've ever seen, but the braced cabinet with drivers stacked is a tried and tested design — and after all, it's the sound that counts.
AI is undoubtedly accelerating data scientists' work, but it is also quietly eroding how data science skills are built in the first place. As copilots, automated pipelines, and increasingly capable models take on more of the hands-on work, the role of the data scientist is shifting toward solution design and strategic problem-solving.
Although this may be a welcome evolution for those who have long earned their stripes in the field, it introduces a risk many organizations, as a whole, are underestimating—the loss of repetition and practice that makes this expertise stick.
By reducing first-hand experiences and the challenge of problem-solving, AI-driven automation risks weakening the foundational expertise required for true data science mastery and system-level thinking. According to research from Anthropic, developers who delegated tasks entirely to AI showed weaker learning outcomes even when productivity gains were modest.
For years, developing data science skills meant spending time close to the work. This entailed tasks such as cleaning up messy datasets, performing exploratory data analysis, manual feature engineering, interpreting model outputs, and diagnosing why a model is underperforming.
This kind of hands-on work may not always be efficient, but they are effective. Repeating steps, getting stuck, figuring out what went wrong, and iterating builds intuition and creates a deeper understanding. Repetitive, direct interaction with data, tools, and code transforms knowledge into proficiency, then mastery.
But there’s a tension emerging: the very aspects of AI that make practitioners more productive—automation, speed, and reduced manual effort—are also removing many of the repetitive, hands-on workflows that historically helped data scientists build technical depth and lasting expertise.
Warning signs
The impact on data scientists is immediate and somewhat invisible. When probable answers are just one prompt away, there's less incentive to internalize patterns or build the mental models that enable independent critical thinking and judgment.
Over time, practitioners can complete tasks with AI assistance but struggle to diagnose issues, adapt approaches to unfamiliar contexts, or evaluate whether an AI-generated output is actually correct. In a field where edge cases and ambiguity are the norm, that gap matters.
Without the necessary adaptations to recognize and maintain core expertise, organizations will start to see the warning signs appearing subtly in judgment, troubleshooting, and knowing when to question AI outputs.
How organizations shift their tech teams and data scientists towards thinking in systems as opposed to tasks while reinforcing those core technical competencies will make a difference in ensuring those warning signs won’t progress so far as being clear and obvious negative impacts on the organization.
Hands-on engagement reinforces understanding
This is where organizations need to be deliberate. Not every task needs to be fully automated. The goal isn’t necessarily to slow down AI adoption or force a return to purely manual workflows, but to ensure that as work becomes more efficient, learning doesn’t become incidental.
Here are three frameworks that can help leaders be more intentional about where and how skill practice happens, ensuring AI reinforces learning as well as efficiency:
At the organizational level, dedicate learning time to close the loop between assisted work, knowledge retention, and deliberate practice on fundamentals. If skill erosion is not visible in productivity metrics, then leaders should implement proficiency metrics and periodic assessments.
At the team level, peer and manager reviews are critical to create accountability for independent judgment. This entails reviewing not just outputs but also reasoning, and fostering an environment in which team members challenge each other to explain why things work.
1. At the organizational level, dedicate learning time to close the loop between assisted work, knowledge retention, and deliberate practice on fundamentals. If skill erosion is not visible in productivity metrics, then leaders should implement proficiency metrics and periodic assessments.
2. At the team level, peer and manager reviews are critical to create accountability for independent judgment. This entails reviewing not just outputs but also reasoning, and fostering an environment in which team members challenge each other to explain why things work.
3. At the individual level, the key principle is to preserve engagement with the problem and being deliberate about what parts of the work you stay close to and what you delegate to AI. In some cases, it’s valuable for practitioners to have a dedicated space to engage more directly with the underlying work, such as exploring data without automation or validating AI-generated outputs step by step. Anthropic's aforementioned research supports a specific version of this: Using AI to understand, not just produce.
Fostering these moments of deeper, hands-on engagement across organizations reinforces understanding and long-term capability in ways that passive consumption cannot.
Learning through action makes mastery possible
The AI era is redefining what it means to be a data scientist. As faster tools and more automated workflows unlock new possibilities, teams can focus on more complex problems. But expertise doesn’t emerge from speed alone. It is often best built through experience and a knowledge of fundamentals.
As organizations continue to embrace AI, the challenge is preserving the conditions that build real skills. The “old school” practices that once defined data science—hands-on work, repetition, and learning through friction—are the very mechanisms that enable mastery. Ensuring that work becomes easier without making technology expertise harder to achieve will be critical in the AI-driven future.
This article was produced as part of TechRadar Pro Perspectives, our channel to feature the best and brightest minds in the technology industry today.
The views expressed here are those of the author and are not necessarily those of TechRadarPro or Future plc. If you are interested in contributing find out more here: https://www.techradar.com/pro/perspectives-how-to-submit
Amazon Prime Day is already delivering some welcome discounts across HP's printer line-up, with savings on everything from refillable ink tank models to home office workhorses and family-friendly all-in-one printers.
Topping the list of printers that grabbed my attention is the HP Smart Tank 5000 for $140 (was $190). Its refillable ink tank system prints thousands of pages without cartridges, while wireless printing, scanning, copying, and AI-enhanced page formatting make everyday use refreshingly simple.
I've selected three other HP printer deals, too, ideal for the home and home office - and they all have very impressive discounts ahead of Prime Day.
Today's top HP printer deals
Smart Tank 5000 all-in-one printer includes up to two years of ink in the box, making it a great choice for high-volume home printing. Now available for $159.99, it combines wireless printing, scanning, copying, refillable ink tanks, and AI-powered page formatting.View Deal
HP's Envy 6555e all-in-one printer is down to $149.89 and combines wireless printing, scanning, copying, automatic duplex printing, and a 35-sheet document feeder. It also includes a three-month Instant Ink trial and AI-powered page formatting.View Deal
This wireless all-in-one printer has been cut to $109.99 after a 31% discount and includes a three-month Instant Ink trial. Automatic two-sided printing, scanning, copying, borderless photo support, and AI-enhanced page formatting.View Deal
This model delivers printing, scanning, copying, and faxing in one home office machine, now priced at $229.89 after an 18% discount. Automatic duplex printing, a document feeder, one year of Instant Ink, and enhanced security features make it ideal for busy workspaces.View Deal
For families printing homework and photos, the HP Envy 6155e offers automatic two-sided printing, wireless connectivity, borderless photo support, and a three-month Instant Ink trial make it a terrific choice for everyday home printing.
Anyone running a home office should consider the HP OfficeJet Pro 8139e, which handles printing, scanning, copying, and faxing. Elsewhere, it features automatic document feeder, duplex printing, smartphone app support, and full year of Instant Ink provide plenty of convenience for regular workloads.
The HP Envy 6555e is similarly rich with features and a superb all-rounder for the home and home office, thanks to automatic duplex printing, a 35-sheet document feeder, wireless connectivity, and a three-month Instant Ink trial. It offers an excellent balance between family printing and light office tasks without taking over your desk.
Whether you print school projects, business reports, or family photos, these Amazon Prime Day HP deals cover almost every need and budget.
Adding months or even years of included ink makes the savings even sweeter, giving you far more than just a lower price on the printer itself.
The retail industry is about to lose one of its oldest assumptions: that the shopper at checkout is definitely a human.
30 to 45 percent of U.S. consumers already use generative AI for product research and comparison, and that reliance will inevitably become more pronounced at checkout.
Agentic commerce is beginning to find its way into more consumers’ buying journeys as they look for new ways to shop.
If this new way of shopping maintains its pace, agentic shoppers could make up $190 billion to $385 billion in U.S. ecommerce spending by 2030.
AI agents aren’t only an emerging trend, they are becoming a new class of customer in the commerce ecosystem. But retailers' platforms and websites were not built for this kind of machine-led activity.
There are new pressures building on merchants to rethink and redesign their systems to support autonomous agents and avoid misclassifying legitimate traffic as risky when humans become more hands-off in their buying journeys.
Besides the challenge of becoming discoverable by AI agents, retailers need to be able to verify who is making transactions at checkout when the “shopper” is actually a machine.
That requires understanding which agents are authorized, which ones are malicious, and which ones represent real, valuable customers.
AI agents break the traditional trust model online
The status quo of online retail is being disrupted by AI agents, not because they introduce fraud directly, but because they break the signals merchants have relied on to measure trust for years.
Protocols and identity layers look increasingly different as agents operate in ways that can make them look like suspicious automation under today’s fraud rules. As agents make transactions using APIs rather than typical browsing flows, behavioral analytics loses its predictive power.
In many cases, the usual browsing journey that these brands have used to infer trust simply won’t exist. Retailers can’t assume that the agent is acting on behalf of a legitimate human without proof, so the question shifts from: “Is this user real?” to “Is this agent authorized to act for this user right now?”
The data already points to why this matters: By the end of 2025, online orders driven by LLM referrals were up more than 1,000% year over year. Even so, purchases executed by bots still make up fewer than 1% of all orders.
This is more than a shift in volume. The models that have been trained on human behavior patterns and to recognize bots as bad traffic now struggle when the “user” is a bot with no history and no trusted profile. The data gap creates a dual risk, more fraudulent activities slipping through, and more legitimate orders being declined.
The infrastructure behind agent-safe commerce
Retailers need to start treating AI agents as a new kind of digital customer in their trust systems. This requires an architecture that can authenticate which AI platform or agent is initiating a transaction, rather than treating all machine-driven interactions as anonymous bot traffic.
Ecommerce teams need to focus on providing machine-friendly commerce data with details like product pricing, in-store availability, shipping rules, and return policies that are well-structured, so agents can easily interpret them.
More importantly, they need to distinguish between three categories of activity, malicious automation, authorized agent-driven transactions, and blended human-agent behavior. And they need a way to instantly differentiate between automated threats and AI agents buying on behalf of valuable customers.
The hidden risk: blocking the next wave of customers
It’s a common misconception that the biggest threat retailers are facing is fraud, when the greatest risk is rejecting legitimate orders. What we are seeing now is retailers accidentally blocking agent traffic because it closely resembles typical bot traffic, which means they are losing visibility into how they are being recommended and selected and ultimately into transactions themselves.
Retailers need better classification systems that can separate hostile automation from authorized intent. This requires a more agent-ready commerce stack in five key areas:
Audit the stack for agent readiness: review product data, API accessibility, and machine-readable content to identify where trust breaks across the buying journey
Verify the agent behind the transaction: confirm the identity of the platform or service initiating the order (e.g. ChatGPT, Claude, etc.)
Prove the shopper’s permission: ensure the agent is acting with explicit authorization with controls around limits and categories.
Modernize fraud models for machine-led behavior: optimize classification accuracy, so legit agent-assisted orders aren’t treated like fraud.
Extend trust controls beyond checkout: prepare for agent-driven returns, exchanges, order edits, or support requests.
If retailers implement these steps, they are moving in the right direction to redesign the shopping experience and rebuild the infrastructure beneath it, so they can capture and not block agent-driven demand.
Machine-led commerce is on the horizon
For now, retailers and ecommerce merchants have time to adjust their strategies before agentic commerce enters a mature stage. The shift will start in narrower, repeatable purchase categories, but as the adoption grows, a competitive gap will emerge between retailers that prepared well, and those that didn’t.
To gain that advantage, online brands that modernize their identity, authorization, and risk infrastructure now will be in a better position to support machine-led transactions without adding any friction for the customer behind them.
The retailers that get this right will reduce fraud while capturing a new class of customers. Because even if shopping is done by machines, trust will still need to begin and end with the human customer.
This article was produced as part of TechRadar Pro Perspectives, our channel to feature the best and brightest minds in the technology industry today.
The views expressed here are those of the author and are not necessarily those of TechRadarPro or Future plc. If you are interested in contributing find out more here: https://www.techradar.com/pro/perspectives-how-to-submit
Tribit's sister company iClever just released a set of child-specific cans that are scooping up awards — and given recent stats on child hearing health, I think we need them
Here are 71 editor-approved Prime Day tech deals that are worth buying right now, including TVs, Apple devices, headphones, security cameras, smartwatches, and more.
Fraunhofer IPMS launches Q-Dice, a quantum random number generator designed to strengthen encryption, authentication, and future security infrastructure.
Just ahead of Prime Day, Samsung has launched a massive TV sale, and I'm rounding up today's 18 best deals, which include record-low prices on 4K, QLED, and OLED TVs.
I compared the cameras on the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra and Oppo Find X9 Ultra, and while Oppo beat Samsung in several scenarios, the Galaxy stood its own.
Romelu Lukaku starts for Belgium in their crucial Group G fixture against Iran in Los Angeles. Here's how to watch the FIFA World Cup 2026 clash for free online and from anywhere.
Writers and creators now frequently simplify their work so that it doesn’t sound ‘too AI’ – many would stop supporting others if they used undisclosed AI.
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I tested a mess-free smart misting fan with powerful yet quiet performance and a budget-friendly price — here’s why it’s a must-have device for the summer.
I test audio kit for a living, and any of this quartet is the right choice for a graduation gift — see my picks for traditional hi-fi setups, Bluetooth streaming or even Sonos compatibility
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Chinese researchers created a digital twin optical computing framework allowing AI training, optimization, and validation before deployment on hardware.
1500W of speaker power in a three-way speaker system that reaches down to 25Hz without subwoofer — and some robust bracing to make sure actually stays where you mount it
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Google and the University of California, San Diego transformed retired Pixel smartphones into computing clusters, exploring lower-cost data center alternatives while reducing electronic waste.
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The Garmin Epix Pro (Gen 2) is one of the manufacturer's best watches and an excellent option for serious runners — it's now down to a fantastic low price in the US and the UK.
Saily wants to democratize global connectivity by removing technical friction and simplifying user onboarding – travel apps could soon offer much more, too.
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University researchers and NHS staff developed an AI forecasting tool that predicts resignations and explains workforce factors behind possible departures.
A federal data center law covering security and sustainability may expire soon as AI infrastructure expansion increases regulatory pressure nationwide.
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Aliens: Fireteam Elite 2 will feature "massive amounts of customization" across all available classes, including the brand-new endgame Specialist class.
While the UK seeks to copy Australia’s world-first social media ban, evidence suggests that most teens are still using their accounts Down Under without the need to download a VPN app. So, why put every citizens' privacy at risk for an approach that’s proven to be failing?
Pico Park president Shintarou Shimazu has discussed the pressures of taking on Sega's beloved franchise to create its crossover indie game, Sonic Pico Park.
The Coalition believes making Gears of War: E-Day an Xbox exclusive was the best decision, but not all Xbox Game Studios teams are aligned on the approach to console exclusivity.
Christian Pulisic misses USA's clash with Australia due to injury, as the co-hosts continue their FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign. Here's how to watch the Group D fixture for free online and from anywhere.
As the British Prime Minister shared plans to ban all under-16s from social media, speculation is mounting as to whether VPNs will be next. While we wait for the government to share further information on this in July, here's how the debate has been unfolding.
We'll show you how to watch Leinster vs Bulls live streams from anywhere in the world with a repeat of last year's United Rugby Championship (URC) final.
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