Microsoft has introduced a new update to the Xbox Home UI that enables users to pin up to three apps or games on their homescreen. This update also brings customization options like hiding system apps such as Settings and Store, and limiting the number of recently used apps and games displayed. Users can choose to display between four to nine tiles in the recently used section. These changes, part of the June Xbox dashboard update, are accessible via Settings > General > Personalization > Games & apps and are rolling out to all Xbox users.

Apple recently launched its latest smartwatches including the Apple Watch Series 10 and the black Apple Watch Ultra 2. These new models bring improvements like the S10 SiP chip, brighter and larger displays, and new sensors. The Series 10 offers discounts at Amazon and Walmart starting at $329 for the 42mm GPS model. The Apple Watch SE, refreshed in late 2022, is a budget-friendly option starting at $169 at Walmart for the 40mm GPS model. The premium Apple Watch Ultra 2, known for its ruggedness and advanced features, is available from $741.89 at Amazon. While premium stainless steel and titanium models exist, this overview focuses on the more affordable aluminum versions. Choosing a recent generation ensures good software support and modern features.

Last year, after losing my AirPods, I relied on my old Lightning EarPods until upgrading to the iPhone 16. Surprisingly, despite lacking wireless features, they worked well enough, which makes me still consider them a solid buy in 2025. Now, the newer USB-C EarPods, released in 2023 to match Apple's switch to USB-C ports, are on sale for $15.99 at Amazon and Walmart — the best deal so far. These EarPods are almost identical to the older Lightning version with inline volume and playback controls and are praised for their clear microphone quality, outperforming some pricier wireless earbuds. Their low maintenance, reliable plug-and-play functionality, and low replacement cost make them an excellent choice for anyone wanting simple, quality wired earbuds.

New York Governor Kathy Hochul has announced a plan to develop a new nuclear power plant, marking the state's first such project in decades. This initiative highlights a growing resurgence of nuclear energy in the US, driven by diverse support including from former Trump administration policies, tech giants powering AI data centers, and climate advocates favoring zero-emission sources. The project aims to harness advanced nuclear technology to bolster New York's energy diversity and meet climate targets of reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 40% this decade. New York Power Authority is tasked with constructing a plant with at least 1 gigawatt capacity, focusing on advanced reactors designed to overcome past industry challenges like high costs and safety concerns. Big Tech companies like Google, Amazon, Meta, and Microsoft are also supporting new nuclear development and reactor extensions. This effort signals a significant shift as the US nuclear industry seeks to rejuvenate itself amidst aging infrastructure and increasing clean energy demands.

In the initial iOS 26 developer beta, the Liquid Glass effect made the Control Center difficult to read due to its high transparency, showing too much of the background. However, with the release of the second developer beta, Apple has addressed this issue by making the Control Center background more opaque, significantly improving readability. Although some color bleed remains on the Control Center buttons, overall the update is a clear step forward. Alongside this change, the new beta also introduces a new ringtone inspired by the Reflections song, resembling music from the Ace Attorney game series. Users interested in trying out the developer beta can follow available installation guides, while the public beta release is scheduled for next month.

Hue has introduced a new version of its Smart Button, featuring a larger design and a higher price point in the U.S., now costing $32.99 compared to $29.99 for the previous model. The button has nearly doubled in size, measuring 45mm in diameter, and has a more angular and flat design versus the older, more bulbous style. It operates over Zigbee and requires a Hue Bridge, supporting Matter platforms through the bridge. The new model retains the same functionality as its predecessor, including the ability to trigger scenes, dim, brighten lights, and start automations via the Hue app. The CR2032 battery is easier to replace and should last around two years. Unlike before, the button no longer includes a large plastic wall plate but attaches magnetically to a small metal plate. The price hike in the U.S. does not align with the EU and UK pricing, possibly tied to tariffs, with a reported price increase across Hue products from July 1 in the U.S. Hue remains one of the pricier smart lighting brands, and this update reflects a trend towards higher costs in the American market.

The Republican-majority Federal Trade Commission has agreed to approve Omnicom's $13.5 billion acquisition of Interpublic Group, the third- and fourth-largest U.S. media buying agencies, with a stipulation banning steering ad dollars away from platforms based on political or ideological viewpoints. This aims to address concerns raised by Elon Musk's X platform, which lost advertisers after controversial content surfaced. The order prevents Omnicom-IPG from denying or directing advertiser spending based on the political stance of media publishers but allows advertisers to make such requests directly. The FTC's provision responds to complaints of an illegal boycott of X following allegations of ad withdrawals over extremist content. The agency hopes to resolve antitrust concerns while accommodating free business practices.

The Steam Deck OLED handheld gaming device is available again on Valve's online store after being out of stock in the US and Canada for over a week due to supply chain issues. The 512GB model is priced at $549 and the 1TB version at $649. Both offer a 7.4-inch HDR OLED display with up to a 90Hz refresh rate and varying battery life. The 1TB model features additional enhancements like a premium anti-glare etched glass display. The Steam Deck Docking Station is sold separately for $79. Meanwhile, the anticipated Switch 2 console continues to appear sporadically at major retailers for around $450.

Dealing with slow Wi-Fi can disrupt everything from work to gaming, but upgrading to a high-quality mesh router like the Eero Pro 6E can help. Currently, Amazon is offering a three-pack of the Eero Pro 6E for $449.99, which comes with a $100 Amazon gift card, effectively making it $200 off the regular price. The system covers up to 6,000 square feet and supports over 100 devices at speeds up to 1.3Gbps. Improvements since the 2022 model have enhanced reliability. The Eero app simplifies setup and ensures optimal router placement and security updates for a seamless Wi-Fi experience.

The Department of Justice has filed a civil complaint seeking to seize approximately $225.3 million in cryptocurrency connected to elaborate crypto investment scams. The complaint, filed in the US District Court for the District of Columbia, details how the DOJ traced funds from over 400 victims linked to a blockchain-based money laundering network involved in "pig butchering" scams—a form of confidence fraud often involving fake romantic relationships to lure victims into bogus crypto investments. The US Secret Service and FBI identified seven groups of Tether stablecoin accounts tied to the scam. Notably, the DOJ was alerted by Tether and the crypto exchange OKX about suspicious accounts laundering illegally obtained funds through complex transactions. Victims include Shan Hanes, a former bank president sentenced for embezzlement related to these scams. The FBI estimates that crypto investment fraud resulted in $5.8 billion in losses in 2024. Proceeds from the seizure will be used to compensate victims, and excess funds may support a US cryptocurrency reserve.