X is enabling developers to create AI bots that can write Community Notes, which may appear on posts. These 'AI Note Writers' submit notes that are only shown if deemed helpful by diverse human perspectives. Notes authored by AI are clearly labeled, and initially, AI can only respond to posts where users request notes. AI Note Writers must earn their writing privileges and can gain or lose them based on the usefulness of their contributions. Starting in test mode, a first group of AI bots will soon begin publishing notes on X. According to X's Keith Coleman, AI accelerates note creation, but human judgment remains crucial to determine helpfulness, with hundreds of notes posted daily.
Microsoft is ending password storage and autofill support in its Authenticator app starting July. Users will no longer be able to autofill stored passwords via Authenticator and must switch to Microsoft Edge or other password managers. Additionally, saved payment information in Authenticator will be deleted in July, followed by passwords in August. Microsoft had already stopped accepting new passwords in Authenticator last month as part of its strategy to consolidate password management in Edge. Passwords will be synced automatically with the user's Microsoft account for access in Edge. Users can set Edge as the default autofill provider via their device settings or export passwords to other services by August. While password support ends, Authenticator will continue to support passkeys, enabling device-based authentication such as PINs, fingerprints, or face scans. More details and instructions are available on Microsoft's website.
The Jackery Explorer 1000 Power Station V2, paired with the SolarSaga 200W Portable Solar Panel, is a versatile solar generator perfect for summer camping. It allows you to power devices like projectors, speakers, and space heaters, enhancing your camping experience without losing connectivity or comfort. Normally priced at $1298, it is now available for $698.99 at Amazon, its lowest price ever. The generator delivers 1,500 watts of power, can handle 3,000 watt surges, and features multiple output ports. It recharges fully in under two hours via outlet or in about seven and a half hours using solar power, which can be halved with an additional solar panel. Included are advanced features like a display screen, smartphone app integration, and an Emergency Charging setting. Additional tech deals include discounts on the Lenovo Legion Go handheld, TP-Link Deco X75 Wi-Fi 6E routers, and the GoPro HERO13 Black Ultra Wide Edition camera, all offering great value for tech enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers.
Mark Zuckerberg, CEO of Meta, has announced the creation of the 'Meta Superintelligence Labs' to spearhead the company's AI development efforts. Alexandr Wang, former CEO of Scale AI and recent Meta recruit, will serve as chief AI officer. He will be joined by ex-GitHub CEO Nat Friedman to co-lead the initiative. Meta has also expanded its AI team with 11 new hires from leading AI firms like Anthropic, Google DeepMind, and OpenAI. To accelerate progress, Zuckerberg is offering substantial compensation packages to attract top AI talent. Despite discussions with AI companies such as Thinking Machines Lab, Perplexity, and Safe Superintelligence, no acquisition deals have been finalized. The company plans to begin research on next-generation AI models within the next year, aiming to stay at the forefront of AI technology.
Starting this summer, NASA Plus’ live programming will be available on Netflix, offering viewers live rocket launches, astronaut spacewalks, mission coverage, and spectacular live views from the International Space Station. This content will be included free with a Netflix subscription and remains ad-free. This partnership aims to enhance global accessibility to NASA’s scientific and exploratory work, leveraging Netflix's vast global audience of over 700 million. NASA Plus will continue to be freely accessible through NASA’s website and app across various devices, including iOS, Android, Apple TV, Roku, and Amazon Fire TV.
The US Department of Justice (DOJ) scored an initial victory in its ongoing antitrust lawsuit against Apple, with a federal judge denying Apple's motion to dismiss the case. The lawsuit alleges that Apple intentionally monopolizes the smartphone and performance smartphone market through anticompetitive practices. Apple sought dismissal in August 2024, arguing that the DOJ failed to prove monopolization or anticompetitive conduct, dismissing claims of deliberate iPhone degradation to hinder competitors. While the case remains in early stages and no definitive rulings on the claims have been made, the judge stated that the government's allegations are sufficient to proceed. Apple has publicly stated its intention to vigorously defend itself in court. This development follows a similar antitrust proceedings against Meta, where initial claims were dismissed before being allowed to continue. The DOJ contends Apple employs contractual restrictions to inflate prices and limit competition from alternative apps and accessories, thereby monopolizing the market.
A glass screen protector is an essential accessory for every Switch 2 owner, alongside a microSD Express card and a protective case. It is crucial to apply a screen protector immediately to prevent accidental scratches. After testing numerous protectors on my Switch 2, I've found that flimsy plastic protectors offer inadequate protection, while the main differences between brands lie in packaging and installation ease. Screen protectors come in glossy or anti-reflective finishes, each with pros and cons. Glossy protectors maintain the screen's vividness and viewing angles better than matte finishes. Among the options tested, amFilm's three-pack of glossy protectors stands out for its affordability and quality, priced at $7.19 on Amazon.
Since its launch on June 5th, the Nintendo Switch 2 has been difficult to find due to limited availability. However, Best Buy will stock more units in their US stores starting July 1st. The console is available as a standalone system for $449.99 or as a bundle with Mario Kart World for $499.99. Buyers can avoid online queues by purchasing in-store. The Switch 2 is the fastest-selling console ever, with over 3.5 million units sold in just four days. It features a 7.9-inch 1080p LCD screen, magnetic Joy-Con controllers, and enhanced performance compared to its predecessor. Additional accessories such as the Pro Controller, Camera, Samsung microSD Express Card, and the Dbrand Killswitch skin are also available at various retailers including Best Buy, Walmart, Target, Amazon, and Dbrand.
Apple is reportedly considering collaboration with OpenAI and Anthropic to integrate their advanced large-language models into Siri. The tech giant aims to improve its AI-enhanced Siri, which faced delays and quality challenges. After leadership changes in Apple's AI team, including the appointment of Mike Rockwell, the company is testing models from OpenAI, Anthropic, and Google on its private cloud. Among these, Anthropic's model appears most promising. Apple is still in the early stages of deciding whether to use third-party AI models or develop its own for Siri.
Foldable phones offer unique features but come with trade-offs such as higher cost, weight, and fragility compared to traditional smartphones. There are primarily two types: book-style foldables that open like a tablet and flip-style foldables resembling a classic flip phone with a smaller outer display. Choosing between these depends on whether you want a larger screen experience or a compact, smartwatch-like device. To protect your investment, purchasing an extended warranty is advisable due to potential repair costs and delicate hardware.
Highlighting 2025’s best foldables: the Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold leads book-style phones with a great design, good screens, and seven years of updates but at a high price; the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6 stands out as the best flip-style foldable with practical cover screen and long support; Motorola’s Razr Ultra offers the most fun and stylish design; Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 excels for multitasking enthusiasts, and the Oppo Find N5 impresses with ultra-thin design though limited to certain markets. Other noteworthy devices include the OnePlus Open and Huawei Mate XT with unique form factors.
Upcoming innovations may see even lighter, thinner, and more durable foldables from major brands like Samsung, as teased for their next Unpacked event.