VMU Pro: The Dreamcast Memory Card Transformed into a Color Handheld Retro Emulator
The VMU Pro upgrades the Sega Dreamcast's memory card with a colorful screen and powerful hardware capable of emulating classic 8-bit handheld consoles, while still functioning as a Dreamcast save storage. It includes a rechargeable battery, Wi-Fi, MP3 playback, and microSD support, catering to Dreamcast users seeking better save management. Preorders open May 15th, price yet to be announced.
Peacock Announces September Launch for 'The Paper,' The Office Spinoff
Peacock's new series 'The Paper,' a spinoff from The Office, premieres in September, focusing on a documentary crew chronicling a Toledo newspaper's revival amid digital media challenges. With notable creators and cast, the show marks a significant addition to Peacock's original content lineup.
Apple Launches iOS 18.5 With Satellite Messaging Support for iPhone 13
iOS 18.5 is now available, enabling carrier satellite messaging for the iPhone 13 lineup through T-Mobile's Starlink-powered service. New features include a Pride-themed wallpaper, parental Screen Time notifications, and bug fixes. Emergency SOS satellite features remain exclusive to iPhone 14 and newer.
Ticketmaster Introduces Transparent Ticket Pricing and Queue Updates
Ticketmaster now shows full ticket prices upfront, including fees, to comply with new FTC rules and regulatory scrutiny. They've also improved queue transparency with real-time updates and exact queue positions for buyers.
Anker's Dual USB-C Cable Discounted by 31% with High-Speed Charging
Anker's dual-headed USB-C cable is on sale at Amazon, offering fast 140W charging for two devices from a single power source. Available in 4-foot and 6-foot lengths, the cable supports devices including some MacBook Pro models. Prices are $17.99 and $19.99 respectively, providing a convenient and economical charging solution.
Top iPhones Reviewed: Features, Battery Life, and Value in 2024
The iPhone 16 series introduces Apple Intelligence and hardware upgrades, with a focus on battery life, camera enhancements, and value across models. The iPhone 16 suits most users, the 16 Pro offers a high-end experience with improved zoom, and the 16 Plus excels in battery life. Budget buyers may consider the 16E or discounted iPhone 15. Overall, gradual AI feature rollouts and thoughtful testing support informed buying decisions in 2024.
Philips Enables 3D Printing for Replacement Trimmer Parts to Promote Sustainability
Philips has introduced Philips Fixables, a program enabling users to 3D print replacement parts for trimmers and other personal health devices to reduce waste. Starting in the Czech Republic with files available globally, the initiative currently offers an adjustable comb for the OneBlade trimmer, promising more parts soon. This effort supports sustainability by extending product lifespan.
iOS 19 to Introduce AI-Powered Battery Optimization for iPhones
Apple's iOS 19 update will include an AI-powered feature that optimizes iPhone battery usage by learning user habits to reduce power drain. This is especially crucial for the slim iPhone 17 model with a smaller battery. The update also introduces a charging time indicator on the lock screen and a broader redesign. The release is expected following WWDC in June.
Trump Administration Proposes Rollback of Appliance Energy and Water Efficiency Standards Amid Legal Concerns
The Trump administration's Energy Department plans to roll back appliance energy and water efficiency standards, challenging the legal anti-backsliding rules of the Energy Policy and Conservation Act. Advocates warn this rollback could increase consumer costs and waste, potentially facing strong legal opposition.
Duolingo Introduces New Energy System to Replace Hearts for a More Engaging Learning Experience
Duolingo is replacing its hearts system with a new energy mechanic that aims to motivate users by rewarding progress instead of penalizing mistakes. The energy system encourages continuous learning with the potential for more lessons completed, and it offers improved user engagement. The update is coming first to iOS and will be available on Android later this year, supporting Duolingo's broader AI-first strategy and course growth.
Five UK Scaleups Join Prestigious TECH5 List, Highlighting Tech Excellence
Five leading UK scaleups have entered TECH5, the 'Champions League of Technology,' completing the UK and Ireland regional round. The UK remains Europe's top tech hub, with significant investment and a vibrant startup ecosystem, raising €17.5bn last year, emphasizing its role as a premier destination for tech innovation and growth.
Trump Administration Removes Copyright Office Chief Amid Controversy Over AI Fair Use Report
Shira Perlmutter was fired by the Trump administration soon after the US Copyright Office released a nuanced report on AI training data and fair use of copyrighted works. Critics claim the dismissal was politically motivated, reflecting tensions over AI's use of copyrighted material and broader cultural issues.
Apple's 2027 iPhone: A Glass-Covered, Curved Marvel and More Exciting Innovations
Apple is gearing up for a landmark 2027 with a mostly glass, curved iPhone featuring an under-screen camera, alongside groundbreaking products like a foldable iPhone, smart glasses, AI-powered Siri, and a home robot. Apple's innovation extends to new AI chips developed by its specialized silicon design team, pushing the boundaries of mobile and AI technology.
Mexico Sues Google Over Renaming Gulf of Mexico to Gulf of America
Mexico is suing Google for renaming the Gulf of Mexico as 'Gulf of America' on its maps for U.S. users, following a directive from the Trump administration. Mexico argues this renaming oversteps international territorial naming rights. Despite Mexico's requests, Google maintained the change, prompting legal action. The issue highlights tensions over territorial naming in digital platforms.
US and China Agree to Temporary Tariff Reductions Amid Trade Talks
The US and China have agreed on a 90-day tariff reduction to ease trade tensions. This move cuts US tariffs on Chinese imports significantly and lowers Chinese tariffs on US goods, while excluding certain small-value import provisions. The pause aims to facilitate further negotiations for a lasting trade agreement.
Honor Introduces Google-Powered AI Image-to-Video Generator on New Smartphones
Honor's new smartphones will feature an AI tool by Google that converts images to short videos. Launching May 22 with the Honor 400 series, it creates five-second videos from photos using the Veo 2 model, embedded in the Gallery app. While effective with simple subjects, it can produce unexpected and humorous outputs with complex images.
Google Keep Web App Now Supports Advanced Text Formatting
Google Keep has introduced advanced text formatting options to its web app, including underline, bold, italic, and header styles, enhancing note organization and syncing with Android versions. The update is rolling out to all Google account users and Workspace members.
Indigenous Scientists Unite to Safeguard Their Cultural Data
Indigenous scientists, led by Professor Max Liboiron, connect monthly to support each other against challenges in Western academia and protect their cultural data. Political shifts in the US heightened the urgency to defend Indigenous research and sovereignty, highlighting the intersection of activism and science in preserving Indigenous rights.
Apple TV Plus' Murderbot: A Quirky Sci-Fi Tale of AI and Identity
Apple TV Plus's 'Murderbot' delivers a unique sci-fi comedy by exploring the perspective of a security bot experiencing free will for the first time. The bot's journey intertwines humor, identity struggles, and existential questions, making it a relatable story about artificial intelligence and autonomy.
Activision Blizzard's Overwatch Development Team Forms Union Under CWA
The Overwatch development team at Activision Blizzard has unionized under the CWA, joining a wider trend of unionization within Microsoft-owned gaming studios. The union seeks better job security and working conditions amid previous workplace controversies at Activision Blizzard.