Streaming Ratings Update for Week of May 5: Netflix Dominates with Two Billion-Minute Hits
In the week of May 5, Netflix led streaming ratings by having two shows that each accumulated over a billion viewing minutes, showcasing its strong position in the market.
Canal+ Partners with Netflix to Enhance TV Subscription Services in Africa
Canal+ and Netflix have extended their strategic partnership in Africa, with Canal+ becoming the first pay TV operator on the continent to offer Netflix within its subscription services. This move enhances the entertainment options available to subscribers in the region.
EchoStar Faces FCC Probe Amid Missed Interest Payments and New Satellite Launch
EchoStar missed over $500 million in interest payments amid an FCC investigation into its 5G deployment compliance, raising bankruptcy concerns. Despite this, it is advancing a new satellite project to support Dish TV. The FCC probe also affects strategic decisions related to Boost Mobile. EchoStar faces competition from SpaceX over spectrum licenses, with both companies sparring publicly. Neither Dish nor EchoStar has commented on these developments.
Anker’s Soundcore Boom 3i: Rugged Outdoor Bluetooth Speaker with Buzz Clean Mode
Anker's Soundcore Boom 3i is a durable outdoor Bluetooth speaker with IP68 rating, saltwater corrosion protection, and a unique Buzz Clean mode to shake off dust and sand. It floats and delivers 16 hours of battery life with additional features like an emergency alarm and megaphone function via app.
The Witcher 4 Tech Demo Showcases Optimization on Standard PS5 Hardware
The Witcher 4 tech demo running on Unreal Engine 5 was showcased running at 60 FPS on a base PS5, highlighting significant optimization efforts by CD Projekt Red to make the game perform well on current-gen consoles without high-end hardware. The demo, featuring realistic environments and elements like a bustling market and a horse, represents the style and direction for the upcoming game.
Google's NotebookLM Introduces Public Sharing for Notebooks and AI-Generated Podcasts
Google's NotebookLM, an AI-driven note-taking app, now supports public sharing of notebooks, enabling interaction with AI-generated content like podcasts and summaries. Sharing options include public links and email invitations with editing rights, enhancing collaborative learning and content engagement.
Razer Introduces HyperFlux V2 Mousepad with Wireless Charging for Multiple Mouse Models
Razer's HyperFlux V2 mousepad wirelessly charges multiple compatible wireless mice via an adapter puck while in use. Priced at $119.99, it offers versions with hard and soft surfaces and supports Razer's proprietary HyperSpeed wireless connection tech, similar to Logitech's Powerplay system. It does not include a mouse and cannot charge keyboards wirelessly.
T-Mobile Expands Fiber Internet Across US with New Plans and Five-Year Price Guarantee
T-Mobile is launching new fiber internet plans with speeds up to 2 Gbps across the US, featuring a five-year price lock and autopay discounts. This expansion, involving partnerships with Lumos and Metronet, aims to cover millions of households by 2030 to compete with major providers. A special long-term Fiber Founders Club plan is also offered in select areas.
Tim Sweeney Reflects on Fortnite's Unexpected Five-Year Absence from iOS
Fortnite was banned from the iOS App Store for nearly five years after Epic Games introduced a payment feature that violated App Store policies. Epic CEO Tim Sweeney expected a shorter ban, but legal delays extended it. Since returning in May, Fortnite has achieved top free game status and millions of downloads, with players enjoying the game across various devices.
Exclusive Discount on the Compact Boox Palma 2 E-Reader for Verge Readers
The Boox Palma 2 is a compact e-reader with a 6.3-inch E Ink screen, running Android 13. Verge readers can get a $20 discount and a free flip case by using code VERGEPALMA20. It supports Google Play apps, has improved battery life, and features a fingerprint sensor, offering a portable reading experience without smartphone distractions.
Google Temporarily Halts Rollout of AI-Driven 'Ask Photos' Feature in Google Photos
Google has paused the rollout of its AI-powered “Ask Photos” feature in Google Photos to address issues related to latency, quality, and user experience. The feature, using specialized Gemini AI models, will be improved and re-released in about two weeks. Google also enhanced keyword search in Photos. This pause follows previous similar pauses of AI features due to accuracy problems.
Voyager Technologies Sets IPO Price Amid Growing Spacetech Investment
Voyager Technologies, operating in the space and defense sector, is planning an IPO with 11 million shares priced from $26 to $29, reflecting increasing investment interest in spacetech.
TikTok Enhances User Control Over For You Page with Manage Topics Feature
TikTok has launched its Manage Topics feature globally, enabling users to tailor the frequency of videos in their For You feed across top categories like sports and travel. The platform also introduced AI-driven smart keyword filters that block specific and related content, allowing users to better control what appears on their feed. These enhancements improve content personalization and user experience.
Fintech IPOs Set to Make a Comeback in the U.S. Market in 2025
The year 2025 may bring a significant increase in fintech IPOs in the U.S. market after several quiet years. Several fintech companies are poised to go public, signaling renewed investor interest and growth in the financial technology sector.
NATO Collaborates with Startups to Lead in Advanced Defence Technologies
NATO launched the DIANA initiative in June 2023 to collaborate with startups and accelerate defence innovation. By leveraging a global network of accelerators, universities, and industries, NATO aims to advance new defence technologies in areas like drones, AI, and cyber defence, redefining modern warfare.
Texas Senate Approves Right to Repair Bill, Awaiting Governor's Signature
Texas Senate passes HB 2963 right to repair bill, requiring manufacturers to provide repair parts and manuals. This legislation aims to reduce electronic waste and would make Texas the ninth state with such a law, pending approval by Governor Greg Abbott.
Top Discounts on Apple AirPods Models Available Now
Excellent deals are currently available on Apple AirPods, including the AirPods 4 with noise cancellation at $158.59 and the second-gen AirPods Pro at $199. The AirPods Max offer premium sound and noise cancellation starting at $479.99. Discounts span multiple retailers, making it a great time to purchase these popular wireless earbuds and headphones.
Google Wallet to End PayPal Integration in the US by June 2025
Google Wallet will stop supporting PayPal payments in the US by June 2025, requiring users to use other payment methods. PayPal card support continues and the integration remains in Germany.
Rivian Enhances EV Charging with Smarter, Faster Features and Detailed Energy Insights
Rivian has revamped its EV charging experience with a software update that delivers detailed real-time energy use insights and faster charging capabilities. New app features include energy flow monitoring, charging recommendations, battery preconditioning for optimized speeds, and an interactive efficiency guide. Both generations of Rivian EVs see faster DC charging, and upcoming features will enable smart home charging and bidirectional power use, improving convenience, cost savings, and sustainability.
Sonos Ace Headphones Reach Lowest Price Ever Ahead of Father's Day Sales
Sonos Ace wireless headphones are available at their best price yet — $329, a $120 discount, ahead of Father’s Day. These headphones combine top-tier sound quality, noise cancellation, and unique integration with Sonos soundbars for private TV listening. Comfortable and stylish with long battery life, they support spatial audio and multipoint Bluetooth connections, making them an excellent choice for audio enthusiasts.