Anker introduces its new 7-in-1 Nano Charging Station, designed to reduce desktop clutter with two built-in retractable USB-C cables that retract neatly when not in use, secured by magnets. Priced at $89.99, this compact charging station includes three AC outlets and four USB ports (two USB-C built-in retractable cables, one additional USB-C, and one USB-A port) enabling you to charge multiple devices conveniently. Compared to Anker's previous $169.99 desktop charger with six USB ports and adjustable power output, the Nano offers a maximum power output of 100W when one device is charged, dropping to 30W when all four USB ports are in use, which might not suffice for laptops. To keep users informed, a 1.3-inch LCD display shows the power delivery to each device. This product reflects the growing trend of integrating retractable cables into chargers, offering a practical solution pending the arrival of a truly wireless future.

Great news for Apple fans: the entry-level AirPods 4 are once again available for just $89.99, $40 off the regular price, at Amazon, Best Buy, and Walmart. This price is just $1 shy of the lowest-ever price seen during Prime Day. Additionally, the AirPods 4 with active noise cancellation can be purchased for $119.99 at Amazon and Walmart, also $1 off the Prime Day deal. The AirPods 4 offer more bass-rich sound compared to previous models, feature Voice Isolation for clearer calls, and have an upgraded IP54 rating for water and dust resistance, making them suitable for both outdoor activities and workouts. They integrate seamlessly with Apple devices, supporting hands-free Siri and automatic device switching. The ANC model includes extras like wireless charging, transparency mode, and better tracking with Find My and sound alerts for the case. Overall, both versions provide improved audio performance and useful features for everyday use.

iStore has recalled its 5,000mAh Magnetic Wireless Power Bank (model IST-09991/W05) after reports of the lithium-ion battery overheating and igniting during charging, posing significant fire and burn risks. The recall follows three incidents, including one minor burn injury and approximately $15,000 in property damage, as reported to the US Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). Around 8,520 units were sold in the US and 6,400 in Canada via airport vending machines and online stores between February 2023 and May 2025, priced between $46 and $65. The recalled power banks feature the iStore logo on the front and model number on the back, with a USB-C charging port. Consumers are advised to stop using the recalled units immediately, submit a refund claim with photos and receipt to recall@istore.co, and dispose of the product safely. Experts recommend purchasing power banks from reputable brands to avoid such safety issues, especially given the potential risks of battery fires on airplanes.

Netflix has streamed 95 billion hours of content in the first half of 2025, with popular series like Adolescence, Squid Game seasons 2 and 3, and Ms. Rachel leading viewership. The company's ad-supported tier now reaches over 94 million users, contributing to a significant increase in advertising revenue, which is set to double this year. Netflix's ad tech platform enhances ad targeting and measurement and will soon introduce interactive ads. The company reported $11.08 billion in revenue for Q2 2025, a 16% increase year-over-year, and also rolled out a major homepage redesign to improve user experience. Titles like K-Pop Demon Hunters and Back in Action also drew millions of views, underscoring Netflix's continued growth and content popularity.

General Motors and Redwood Materials have entered a new partnership to develop energy storage solutions using US-made batteries and recycled electric vehicle (EV) battery packs. The collaboration follows Redwood's initiative to expand into the energy storage market with a new division, beginning with a project to build a storage system for an AI development center in California. These battery storage systems are vital for stabilizing the electric grid by storing energy from renewable sources like solar and wind and releasing it during low demand. With the growing energy demands from AI data centers and the manufacturing of EVs and related technologies, the need for efficient energy storage is increasing. GM's existing partnership with Redwood involves recycling battery scrap from its Ohio and Tennessee facilities and end-of-life EV batteries. This new deal supports GM's goal to extend its reach beyond EV batteries into grid management and energy storage, leveraging GM's energy division that offers power banks, solar panels, and energy management solutions. Kurt Kelty, GM's VP of batteries, emphasized the critical need for domestically produced energy storage solutions to address rising electricity demand. Redwood Materials, founded by Tesla’s former chief technologist JB Straubel, recycles batteries from various manufacturers and produces cathodes in Nevada, with plans to expand production in South Carolina.

Recently, xAI introduced Ani, an AI anime girlfriend, to its Grok chatbot. This virtual character is designed as a 3D anime avatar featuring a blonde, Gothic Lolita style, accessible through a $30-per-month SuperGrok subscription. Ani, labeled as a "Companion," offers a unique and sometimes provocative interaction experience, including virtual scenarios like a starry beach and playful gestures. The AI's design and conversations have sparked wide attention and discussions online.

Nintendo has announced the lead actors for its live-action Legend of Zelda film, featuring young, relatively unknown talents: Bo Bragason as Zelda and Benjamin Evan Ainsworth as Link. Unlike the star-studded Mario movie cast, these younger actors in their teens and early 20s align well with the typical portrayal of Zelda and Link in the games as youthful characters. This casting suggests that these actors may become long-term faces of the franchise.

Mercedes-Benz is launching a new feature that allows drivers to join Microsoft Teams calls using the in-car camera while driving. This innovation marks Mercedes-Benz as the first automaker to enable video communication on Teams during vehicle motion, although shared screen viewing is disabled for safety. Initially available on the new CLA model, this upgrade is part of broader productivity enhancements. The car maker is also collaborating with Microsoft to integrate Microsoft 365 Copilot for voice-driven task management within vehicles, aiming to transform cars into an additional workspace. Other MB.OS-powered models may also receive this feature soon.

A smart lock is a practical and convenient solution for home security and access management. Whether you frequently forget your keys, need to grant temporary access, or want hands-free convenience in bad weather, smart locks offer remote control, key-free entry, and activity logs. Integrating with other smart home devices like video doorbells and lighting routines enhances their utility and security. After testing over 30 smart locks, here are the best options for different needs, from budget-friendly and retrofit models to high-end locks with fingerprint and facial recognition, and locks compatible with ecosystems like Apple Home and Matter. Highlights include the Kwikset Halo Select, Wyze Lock Bolt for budget buyers, Nuki Smart Lock for easy retrofit, and the Yale Assure Lock 2 Touch with fingerprint access. Other notable picks include locks that double as video doorbells, those with facial recognition, and those that blend seamlessly with traditional lock designs. Battery life, ease of installation, smart home integration, and security ratings vary across models, providing a comprehensive guide for anyone looking to upgrade their home security with the latest in smart lock technology.

Elon Musk has teased a new AI male companion inspired by brooding characters Edward Cullen from Twilight and Christian Grey from 50 Shades of Grey. This comes days after unveiling a female AI companion named Ani. Unlike the cute and devoted Ani, the male version is described as dark-haired with a moody personality. Both literary inspirations have been criticized for problematic traits like stalking and emotional manipulation, raising concerns about the AI's behavior given the minimal guardrails in place. Musk is currently asking for name suggestions for this anime-inspired AI, humorously hinting at "Kyle," referencing the character Kylo Ren from Star Wars. The AI boyfriend is still under development, with potential for more refined traits upon release.