INSERT INTO `tbl_article` (`id`, `arttitle`, `artcontent`, `artshortcontent`, `artimg`, `artwebdomain`, `artcat`, `artcatname`, `artcampid`, `arttype`, `artvideoid`, `artytlang`, `artdate`, `uid`, `spintextflag`, `langtransflag`, `artinbuildnewskeyword`, `artnewstype`, `artnewskeyword`) VALUES
(581, 'Pokémon Sleep helped me catch ’em all — all the z’s, that is', '<div><div><div id=\"content\"><p>\n	)\n}\n\n\n	\n	const containers = document.querySelectorAll(\".w-full figure.w-full\");\n        containers.forEach(container =&gt; {const root = ReactDOM.createRoot(container);\n    root.render(</p><ledevideo credit=\"Illustration by Sarah Oh / The Verge\" poster=\"https://voxmedia.stories.usechorus.com/assets?community_id=372&amp;q=url:https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/24997403/236814_pokemon_sleep_soh.jpeg\" source=\"https://volume-assets.voxmedia.com/production/0794c32587e188ceac2f00945b21d6bf/236814_Pokemon_Sleep_SOh.mp4\"></ledevideo><p>)})\n	\n\n\n\n</p></div></div><p>For a long time, the only thing I knew about <em>Pokémon</em> was the shitposter theory that a clown named Mr. Mime was Ash Ketchum’s secret father. I’d never played any of the games or watched the cartoons; it is occasionally hard to explain how I totally missed the <em>Pokémon</em> boat as an elder millennial who had little interest in picking any of it up. But a few months ago, The Pokémon Company finally got me with <a href=\"/23802801/pokemon-sleep-iphone-android-hands-on\"><em>Pokémon Sleep</em></a>. </p><p>As a lifelong insomniac who had recently regressed to upsetting levels of sleep dysfunction, this was a chance to finally dive into what seemed like a cute, low-stakes, low-barrier-to-entry app that could keep me company at four in the morning. The concept is simple: <em>Pokémon Sleep</em> is framed as a “sleep research study,â€ where, each week, the player feeds and studies a Snorlax, whose “drowsy powerâ€ attracts other pokémon when it sleeps. As the Snorlax grows, it attracts more pokémon, which can be caught as indentured research assistants to collect food for the Snorlax. No one sleeps until the player sleeps. As the day goes on, the helpers get tired — their smiles start to fade, and their little eyelids droop while they wait for the sweet release of unconsciousness.</p><p>The only way to play is to sleep; if you want to be good, you need to sleep well, but if you want to be great, you need to sleep <em>consistently </em>well.</p><p>Today, a Snorlax is the first thing that greets me in the morning and the last thing I see at night. I’ve been in bed by 2AM for the last 67 nights and had at least seven hours of sleep every single time. Out of these past weeks, I’ve had what <em>Pokémon Sleep</em> deems “S-tierâ€ sleep every week except two, which merely earned an “Aâ€ rank. Three times a day, I briefly open the app to cook meals for my Snorlax and distribute candy to my tireless little helpers. I can even recognize a bunch of them now and some of their evolution patterns; the other day, I eagerly paid for extra-expensive gas to qualify for a limited-edition Snorlax car dehumidifier, and just today, I bought a Slowpoke-shaped wrist rest. Is this healthy? I don’t know. Is relying on <em>Pokémon</em> to maintain a manageable sleep cycle a good thing? </p><div><div><div><div aria-label=\"Zoom\" role=\"button\" tabindex=\"0\"><figure><div><p><span><img alt=\"A screenshot from the video game Pokémon Sleep.\" data-nimg=\"fill\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7\"></img></span></p></div></figure></div></div><p><cite>Image: The Pokémon Company</cite></p></div></div><p>To call <em>Pokémon Sleep</em> a <em>game </em>is marketing. It’s essentially a gamified sleep tracker that weaponizes cuteness and the sort of idle, casual pet care psychology that took off when <a href=\"https://www.smithsonianmag.com/innovation/keeping-tamagotchi-alive-180979264/\">Bandai introduced the Tamagotchi in 1996</a>. It’s free to play, but the microtransactions are there if you want them; if you’re determined to treat your Snorlax like a hardcore gamer’s science experiment, there is all sorts of diehard min-max strategizing going on in the <em>Pokémon Sleep</em> Reddit that flies in the face of the whole chill sleepytime vibe. It also seems to be the most polarizing <em>Pokémon</em> installment — people either love it or hate it, which seems to depend on whether they actually need “helpâ€ in the sleep department. </p><p>From 2008 to 2014, I needed <em>a lot</em> of help sleeping via heavy medication and therapy (and unofficially, and very inadvisably, alcohol), which helped me maintain the semblance of a “normalâ€ day / night cycle. After I went off my prescription — a weird and wobbly transition into a world without pharmaceutical training wheels — I slowly gained confidence in my internal body clock. For several years, I enjoyed regular unmedicated sleep at mostly appropriate times, and it was great. Then came the pandemic, which sent me hurtling back in time to my oldest and worst friends: insomnia, polyphasic sleep, and the general sense of feeling like shit.</p><div><div><p>A Snorlax is the first thing that greets me in the morning and the last thing I see at night</p></div></div><p>When I told my psychiatrist about <em>Pokémon Sleep</em>, she was visibly intrigued, especially given my sleep history and tendency toward addiction. I asked if she thought the app was unethical for someone like me, and without hesitation, she said, “No.â€ If we operate on the premise that we’re all glued to our phones as adults, she explained, that there’s no real long-term solution to keep people off their phones, something like <em>Pokémon Sleep</em> might actually be doing something productive for people like me. I brought this same question to <a href=\"https://sites.google.com/view/stijnmassar/home\">Stijn Massar</a>, a neuroscientist and research assistant professor at the <a href=\"https://sleepcognition-lab.org/\">Sleep &amp; Cognition Laboratory</a> at the National University of Singapore. “I think I would agree with that,â€ Massar said. “For most adults, staying off phones is a very difficult thing.â€ I didn’t anticipate such easy endorsement from health and science professionals, but I eagerly accepted it as a sort of quasi-fatalist validation of my new routine. </p><p><em>Pokémon Sleep</em>, though, is supposedly an app for users ages four and up, which seems like a perplexingly young age for a sleep tracker. “Of course you do want kids to engage in healthy behaviors, but does it necessarily have to be through a game… or an app, and what are the side effects of that?â€ asked Massar, who has young children of his own. For several days before our call, he’d tried to use the app himself, but it had refused to log his sleep. I explained that the app doesn’t necessarily need to be open all day — the more you “workâ€ your food-gathering helpers, for instance, the more tired they get.</p><p>“It’s not a typical game in terms of it not being maximized for engagement… there’s a limit to it and there’s a very clear objective of getting habits in sync with what’s supposed to be healthy, so that part is good,â€ he said thoughtfully. “Like as parents we do everything within our normal capacity to get them to do healthy sleep. Adding phone games to the mix, would that pose any other problems? This of course is something that’s very hard to answer.â€</p><div><div><p>“For most adults, staying off phones is a very difficult thing.â€</p></div></div><p>All the <em>Pokémon Sleep</em>-ing parents I know are unanimously against the idea of their kids using it; sleep trackers are primarily an adult-focused technology, which isn’t entirely surprising given that <a href=\"https://sleep.hms.harvard.edu/education-training/public-education/sleep-and-health-education-program/sleep-health-education-79\">our ability to sleep often declines with age</a>. Edmond Tran, editor at <em>GamesHub</em> Australia, is the only other games journalist I know who has faithfully stuck with <em>Pokémon Sleep</em> since launch. Before that, he had subpar sleep patterns and often used his kid-free hours at night for “me timeâ€ that, more often than not, involved video games. “I actually went to bed at earlier hours for the first week or so because I was excited to try [<em>Pokémon Sleep</em>], which went a long way in building a good routine,â€ he said, though his discipline has since faltered. “There is still a routine there — in bed by midnight most nights, and I haven’t missed a night since.â€</p><p>Before trying <em>Pokémon Sleep</em>, Rachel Tan, a full-time corporate performance manager and mother of twin babies, had occasional bouts of insomnia and struggled to sleep a few times a week. “I realized I unconsciously tried to meet the preset sleep time and that in turn made me put my phone down earlier than I usually would have,â€ she said, though her interest started to wane about a month in because her sleep style (she hardly gets any “slumberingâ€ sleep, the deepest zone of sleep in the app) has remained largely the same. “It’s pretty much a Tamagotchi and sleep app slapped into one… I think if you’re a pretty consistent sleeper, there’s very little value in <em>Pokémon Sleep</em>.â€</p><p>There is a lot of value, though, for enterprising companies to create a sense of need for sleep trackers, especially when the global sleep economy — an ecosystem of sleep-related products and services and apps often framed as health-adjacent tools for self-empowerment — is <a href=\"https://www.statista.com/statistics/1119471/size-of-the-sleep-economy-worldwide/\">supposed to be worth $585 billion next year</a>. <em>Pokémon Sleep</em> occupies an awkward but fascinating spot between game and app; most people hear “Pokémonâ€ and immediately think of a game, when the reality is that this is just a very cleverly designed sleep tracker with world-famous characters driving all of its features. “I talk to very few people about <em>Pokémon Sleep</em> because most of the people I socialize with have little interest in games, and the one time I did bring it up they looked at me like I was crazy,â€ says Tran. “But I talked about it as a gamified sleep tracker more than a game or app, because really the primary hook for me is the behavioral encouragement and data collecting aspect of it.â€ </p><div><div><div><div aria-label=\"Zoom\" role=\"button\" tabindex=\"0\"><figure><div><p><span><img alt=\"A screenshot from the video game Pokémon Sleep.\" data-nimg=\"fill\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7\"></img></span></p></div></figure></div></div><p><cite>Image: The Pokémon Company</cite></p></div></div><p>There is one contingent of parents that seems to find value in <em>Pokémon Sleep:</em> parents of adolescent kids who refuse to give up their smartphones at night. After my psychiatrist told me she’d tried playing <em>Pokémon Sleep </em>(she found it annoying), she explained that the app had become a successful tool for parents who routinely got into fights with their 12-year-olds over phone use. “We’ve closed the book on whether kids need phones,â€ she said, matter of factly explaining that most if not all Singaporean schools use social media and messaging apps like WhatsApp to distribute important information to students. Not having a smartphone isn’t about FOMO but, rather, about gaining information about tests and homework and class announcements; daily smartphone use among children <a href=\"https://www.moh.gov.sg/docs/librariesprovider5/resources-statistics/educational-resources/annex---evidence-review-of-screen-use-in-childhood-(1).pdf\">is so common </a>in Singapore that there’s even a government campaign called <a href=\"https://www.touch.org.sg/about-touch/tips-and-resources/details/2023/09/05/my-first-device-campaign\">My First Device</a> that frames smartphones as a vital life milestone.</p><p>In my shrink’s experience, this new norm has meant a dramatic uptick in family screaming matches over smartphones after dark and even cases of children silently belly-crawling into their parents’ room at night to retrieve their confiscated phones. <em>Pokémon Sleep </em>has become a sort of weird compromise where bedtimes are transparent and kids are disincentivized from playing <em>Fortnite</em> all night in case it impacts their potential pokémon catches.</p><p>I’m undeniably here for the behavioral encouragement, not least because it involves adorable little creatures and the perennial make-believe joy of feeding and caring for a pet. My friend Ruby, a recent <em>Pokémon Sleep</em> convert, is admittedly only playing it for the cute factor. “I don’t really need it to sleep, though I do like that it keeps me from staying up too late,â€ she said, admitting that she’ll probably drop off when her boyfriend comes to visit. Still, she’s developed a conscious bedtime routine and admits she was much less disciplined before the app. “My bedtime is set to 12:05AM and my phone is firmly put away by 12:20AM every night unless I’ve been out,â€ she said. “I was just telling my brother that I’ll probably never play another Pokémon console game because I cannot dedicate that kind of time to leveling pokémon… [in <em>Pokemon Sleep</em>] they level up while I’m <em>sleeping</em>.â€</p><p>Here lies the core of <em>Pokémon Sleep</em>’s warm, cozy allure: it’s not <em>quite </em>a conventional idle game, which is the sort of game that chugs along with or without player interaction. There are thousands of absolutely brain-dead idle games out there that are the equivalent of “put something on TV in the background while you’re busy,â€ and the only one I really liked was <a href=\"/2016/1/1/10699976/neko-atsume-the-game-of-passivity\"><em>Neko Atsume</em></a>, a cat-collecting idler that only really “workedâ€ if you actually let time pass. <em>Pokémon Sleep</em> is a game whose famous “gotta catch ’em allâ€ feature only kicks in when you’re literally asleep. Considering that many early idle games were <a href=\"https://www.gamedeveloper.com/design/the-rise-of-games-you-mostly-don-t-play\">reportedly made as parodies</a> of MMORPG rewards and hyper-capitalistic progress systems, <em>Pokémon Sleep</em> represents a new breed in this line of experimentation in an age of unprecedented technological invasiveness.</p><div><div><p>Sleep — the thing that many of us consider a sacred sanctuary of rest and regeneration, is also an economic concern in a capitalist framework</p></div></div><p>Sleep, the final frontier of personal space in an ever-shrinking world of constant surveillance and endless metrics, no longer belongs only to me — it also belongs to my pokémon. In the eyes of The Pokémon Company, I am now a dedicated, productive sleeper, which might feel like an incredibly cynical dig, but it is worth noting that the Sleep &amp; Cognition Laboratory’s website, while listing the impact of sleep deprivation on our cognition and health, is also explicitly clear that poor sleep “<a href=\"https://sleepcognition-lab.org/research/sleep/\">imposes a 2-4% drag on the GDP of developed nations</a>.â€ Yes, sleep — the thing that many of us consider a sacred sanctuary of rest and regeneration, is also an economic concern in a capitalist framework.</p><p>It’s comically dystopian, but once megacorps figure out how to make us materially productive in sleep, we’ll experience a planetwide seismic tremor from every classic science fiction writer rolling over in their graves. But if there were any brand that could accomplish the tricky task of making the concept of sleep-to-play a viable, desirable product — one that’s still so novel and silly that it can’t <em>possibly</em> be <em>anything</em> but a benign, niche bit of fun in its current incarnation — it’s going to be one of the most identifiable brands in the world, responsible for putting multiple generations of kids on collectibles. </p><p><em>Pokémon Sleep</em>, for all the structure and behavioral modification it has brought to an otherwise difficult process for me, is a wildly imperfect tool. Like all sleep trackers, its appeal boils down to two questions: do sleep trackers <em>help</em>, and do sleep trackers <em>work</em>? The gold standard of sleep tracking, according to Massar, involves <a href=\"https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/polysomnography/about/pac-20394877\">polysomnography</a> — imagine a science fiction film scene where someone is plastered with little nodes and sensors amid a tangle of monitors and recording equipment. Sleep tracking apps aren’t as accurate, but their widespread accessibility means that anyone with a smartphone can have a general idea of what happens after dark.</p><div><div><div><div aria-label=\"Zoom\" role=\"button\" tabindex=\"0\"><figure><div><p><span><img alt=\"A screenshot from the video game Pokémon Sleep.\" data-nimg=\"fill\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7\"></img></span></p></div></figure></div></div><p><cite>Image: The Pokémon Company</cite></p></div></div><p>There is no objectively perfect amount of sleep, and the pervasiveness of smartphones and smartwatches has also created a phenomenon of people who tend to fixate on their own body metrics. “Some people take it more seriously than others, some people respond more negatively than others,â€ said Massar, who believes people should simply see sleep trackers as a measurement instrument, like a weighing scale. “Sleep trackers… won’t necessarily provide a way to improve your sleep, but if you have other ways to improve sleep habits, using sleep trackers to track where you are and help you gain some insights… it’s not necessary to obsess over 30 minutes more of a deep sleep period or 30 minutes more of an REM sleep period.â€</p><p>Massar also believes sleep simply isn’t as easily gamifiable as other behaviors, pointing to Singapore’s public fitness campaigns like the <a href=\"https://www.healthhub.sg/programmes/37/nsc\">National Steps Challenge</a>. The excitement of catching pokémon through gameplay adds a new dimension to the act of sleep that can help reframe a person’s experience around sleep. Personally, when it’s time to feed my Snorlax or go to bed, it almost feels like I’m on autopilot now, which is probably for the best because if I really stopped to think about the role of <em>Pokémon Sleep</em> in my ability to keep a sane and productive schedule, my neurosis would keep me up at night.</p><div><div><p>If this is how I regain control of my circadian cycle, through Psyducks and Chikoritas and an inexplicable number of Rattatas, then so be it</p></div></div><p>After all, this is my first time collecting and evolving all of these occasionally horrifying little abominations, learning that Moomoo Milk actually comes from Miltank and that the “slowpoke tailâ€ cooking ingredient isn’t a descriptive name for an herb or plant. I have, for better or worse, hitched my sleep health wagon to a frighteningly appealing brand rich in both novelty and nostalgia, which is extremely vexing for someone who hates normalizing technology that listens to your breathing in bed.</p><p>But if this is how I regain control of my circadian cycle, through Psyducks and Chikoritas and an inexplicable number of Rattatas, then so be it. My sleep is now indirectly powered by The Pokémon Company, and one day, because the arc of startup-era time bends toward monetization, perhaps this will turn into a wildly problematic springboard for sponsorships. Massar seemed genuinely interested in the fact that I could overcome such an entrenched history of insomnia with, well, pokémon. I could use a generic sleep tracker, but let’s be real — there’s no cutesy appeal there.</p><p>Even my 72-year-old mother tried <em>Pokémon Sleep</em> and marveled at the funny little animals for a few days before completely giving up. At least there’s an element of pleasure in caring for these dopey little characters, even if it’s a painfully self-aware pleasure that Pokémon has now become a crutch for my insomnia. And I’m not alone. Ed Tran is still keeping with it, as is Ruby, because it asks for such a low amount of engagement in exchange for a modest feeling of mundane grown-up accomplishment. “I’ll definitely continue to play it regularly,â€ Tran said. “I don’t even really care about collecting more <em>Pokémon Sleep</em> styles, I just like checking in on my little crew and growing a new Snorlax every week by feeding him terrible meals.â€</p><p>Like me, Tran, who maintains a casual “transient friendshipâ€ with his Snorlax, is more emotionally invested in the “slow and gradual growthâ€ of his pokémon helpers. And like me, he seems to have made peace with the fact that he’s one of a handful of people who actually gets something out of the app.  And while it feels like we’re oddball anomalies in our respective social circles — most people I know don’t need a sleep tracker and would rather use a respectable Fitbit because any sense of childlike wonder got sucked out of them a long time ago — <em>Pokémon Sleep</em> recently celebrated <a href=\"https://www.japantimes.co.jp/business/2023/08/26/tech/pokemon-sleep-smartphone-apps/\">10 million downloads</a>. It isn’t quite near <a href=\"https://www.guinnessworldrecords.com/news/2016/8/pokemon-go-catches-five-world-records-439327\"><em>Pokémon Go</em>’s 160 million download count in its first month</a>, but given <em>Sleep</em>’s very niche appeal, it’s like comparing apples to oranges when, at the end of the day, The Pokémon Company has the last laugh for cornering both the apple and orange market. But Tran simply can’t see <em>Pokémon Sleep</em> as something that his family needs to do, too.</p><p>“My kids don’t need much encouragement to get to sleep, so I wouldn’t let them use it if I could help it,â€ he said. “That said, my children’s exposure to video games is very, very low compared to some of their peers. I don’t want this life for them.â€</p></div>', 'Pokémon Sleep is part mobile game, part sleep tracking app, and for some people, the cute faces of Pikachu and Snorlax are a useful tool in fighting insomnia.', 'https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/Z0FVc3831MTR8eqTQWodsFpKsuo=/0x0:2040x1360/1200x628/filters:focal(1020x680:1021x681)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/24997403/236814_pokemon_sleep_soh.jpeg', '169', NULL, NULL, '73', 'newsapi', NULL, NULL, '2023-11-13', '728', '0', '0', NULL, NULL, NULL);
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(582, 'Ecobee Smart Doorbell Camera review: even better with the thermostat', '<div id=\"content\"><p>This morning, my doorbell rang, and I answered it from my thermostat. An image of the FedEx driver appeared on the four-inch touchscreen, and I tapped the microphone icon and told him I’d be right there. Yeah, it was really cool. </p><div><p>The doorbell is the new <a href=\"https://go.redirectingat.com/?xs=1&amp;id=1025X1701640&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.ecobee.com%2Fen-us%2F\">Ecobee Smart Doorbell Camera ($159.99)</a> launching today on <a href=\"https://go.redirectingat.com/?xs=1&amp;id=1025X1701640&amp;url=http%3A%2F%2FEcobee.com\">Ecobee.com</a>, Amazon, Best Buy, and Lowes, and the thermostat is the <a href=\"/23076845/ecobee-smart-thermostat-premium-enhanced-review\">excellent Ecobee Smart Thermostat Premium ($249.99)</a>. Streaming video <a href=\"/22949565/doorbell-video-nest-echo-show-alexa-google-how-to\">doorbell feeds to smart displays</a> is nothing new, but this was a video feed to a <em>thermostat</em>. It’s smart home symbiosis of the best kind. My only complaint is that it took us this long to get here. </p></div><p>The smart thermostat was the darling of the home automation renaissance circa 2010 when Nest first burst onto the scene with its sleek, twirly <a href=\"/2011/11/14/2559567/tony-fadell-nest-learning-thermostat\">Nest Learning Thermostat</a>. While Nest got all the press, <a href=\"/e/23683561\">Ecobee actually came first</a>, and where Nest under Google has lagged behind, Ecobee has been quietly innovating its flagship thermostat, including turning it into a hub for its smart home ambitions. </p><p>Today, with the doorbell integration, the Ecobee Smart Thermostat Premium is essentially a smart hub / display. In addition to controlling your HVAC, it’s a smart speaker with both Alexa and Siri built-in and acts as an indoor air quality monitor, a smoke and CO alarm listener, a temperature and humidity sensor, plus it’s a radar-powered motion sensor. The company has also just added the capability to be a keypad and siren for <a href=\"https://go.redirectingat.com/?xs=1&amp;id=1025X1701640&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.ecobee.com%2Fen-us%2Fsmart-security%2F\">Ecobee’s smart security system</a>. </p><p>I’ve spent the last two weeks testing <a href=\"/e/23683561\">Ecobee’s new Smart Doorbell Camera</a> alongside the smart thermostat and smart security system. The camera does the basics well — good video quality, a superb field of view, fast alerts for people and packages, and excellent radar-powered motion detection. It works with Apple Home and Amazon Alexa (Google Home support is slated for 2024).</p><p>In addition to the unique ability to use a thermostat as a video intercom and to function as a smart security hub, the Smart Doorbell Camera can also zoom and track a visitor’s face before they get to the door and send tailored alerts that notify you only of people and packages. </p><p>The big downside is there is no free or locally stored recorded video; it’s all cloud-based. You’ll pay $5 a month ($50 a year) for 30 days of motion-activated video clips. There’s also no 24/7 recording or facial recognition, which are features found on similar doorbells in this price point, including <a href=\"/23404602/google-nest-doorbell-wired-review-hello\">Google Nest’s wired doorbell</a>. </p><div><div><div aria-label=\"Zoom\" role=\"button\" tabindex=\"0\"><section aria-label=\"Ecobee Smart Thermostat features carousel\" tabindex=\"-1\"><p><span><img alt=\"&lt;em>The Smart Thermostat Premium showing a live feed of the doorbell camera.&lt;/em>\" data-nimg=\"fill\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7\"></img></span><span><img alt=\"&lt;em>You can use the thermostat screen to arm and disarm the security system.&lt;/em>\" data-nimg=\"fill\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7\"></img></span><span><img alt=\"&lt;em>The system now has a timer for delaying arming when you exit or enter. The length is configurable in the Ecobee app.&lt;/em>\" data-nimg=\"fill\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7\"></img></span><span><img alt=\"&lt;em>The thermostat sounding a siren when the security system is triggered&lt;/em>\" data-nimg=\"fill\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7\"></img></span><span><img alt=\"&lt;em>The new keypad feature for disarming the security system. &lt;/em>\" data-nimg=\"fill\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7\"></img></span><span><img alt=\"&lt;em>The thermostat interface now has a new icon for security, second from left.&lt;/em>\" data-nimg=\"fill\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7\"></img></span></p><div><p>1/6</p><p><figcaption><em>The Smart Thermostat Premium showing a live feed of the doorbell camera.</em></figcaption></p></div></section></div></div></div><p>Additionally, I found a few flaws in its new “sensor fusionâ€ technology, which uses radar motion detection, computer vision, and machine learning to deliver more precise alerts. Chief among them is that if a package is on your doorstep and someone approaches it, the doorbell doesn’t send you an alert about that person; its software prioritizes the package. You can see the problem here.</p><p>Overall, though, the innovation here is impressive. When paired with <a href=\"https://www.amazon.com/ecobee-SmartSensor-Doors-Windows-2-Pack/dp/B087D88FW2?tag=theverge02-20\">Ecobee’s door and window SmartSensors ($79.99 for two)</a>, the doorbell can be the hub for a simple security system with video for under $240. If you bump up to the $10 a month ($90 a year) Smart Security Complete plan, you also get 24/7 professional monitoring with video verification and recording for unlimited cameras. That’s cheaper than all the competition. Ring’s pro-monitoring for its security system with unlimited camera recording is $20 monthly, and Arlo’s is $25. </p><p>Combine this with an Ecobee thermostat and the company’s excellent <a href=\"https://www.amazon.com/ecobee-SmartCamera-Control-Built-Security/dp/B087D6DRCC?tag=theverge02-20\">indoor camera</a> (that’s also a smart speaker and siren for the alarm), and you have a compelling system. A $399 package gets you the doorbell, Premium thermostat, and a 2-pack of security sensors. </p><p>I really like that every device has two or more functions, meaning fewer gadgets to clutter up your home. The hardware uses quality materials and good industrial design, and the software is easy to use with innovative features — such as auto disarming when any household member arrives home. </p><div><div><div aria-label=\"Zoom\" role=\"button\" tabindex=\"0\"><section aria-label=\"Ecobee ecosystem carousel\" tabindex=\"-1\"><p><span><img alt=\"&lt;em>Ecobee’s Smart Indoor Camera shares design cues with the new doorbell camera.&lt;/em>\" data-nimg=\"fill\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7\"></img></span><span><img alt=\"&lt;em>Ecobee’s Smart Door &amp;amp; Window Sensors detect motion and contact&lt;/em>\" data-nimg=\"fill\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7\"></img></span></p><div><p>1/2</p><p><figcaption><em>Ecobee’s Smart Indoor Camera shares design cues with the new doorbell camera.</em></figcaption></p></div></section></div></div></div><p>However, the security system lacks key features found on Arlo, Ring, and others, including no cellular or battery backup (the thermostat and the indoor camera are also both wired with no battery), and there’s no standalone outdoor camera and no option for a keyfob. But the overall simplicity is exactly the type of innovation the smart home needs.</p><p>Additionally, in an age where tech companies appear to think we are swapping out our doorbells and thermostats as often as our phones, Ecobee’s longevity approach is a selling point. Many of these improvements are also coming to its entire range of thermostats, starting from the Ecobee 3. The live view feature will work on the Premium, Enhanced, and <a href=\"/2017/9/25/16349860/ecobee4-thermostat-alexa-smarthome-review\">Smart Thermostat with Voice</a>, the keypad feature on Ecobee 3 and newer, and all of its thermostats can act as a hub for the security system.</p><div><div><div><div aria-label=\"Zoom\" role=\"button\" tabindex=\"0\"><figure><div><p><span><img alt=\"The Ecobee Smart Doorbell Camera is large for a wired doorbell, with a black glass front and a white trim.\" data-nimg=\"fill\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7\"></img></span></p></div></figure></div></div><p><figcaption><em>The Ecobee Smart Doorbell Camera is large for a wired doorbell, with a black glass front and a white trim.</em></figcaption></p></div></div><p><h3>Specs and features</h3></p><p>The Ecobee Smart Doorbell Camera is a wired video doorbell with good quality 1080p HD video, a 5MP sensor, and color and IR night vision. It uses a combination of radar motion detection and computer vision to send alerts when people or packages appear at your door. It has an excellent 175-degree vertical field of view that showed me both those packages on my porch — even right up against the door — as well as people’s faces. The only other doorbell I’ve tested that showed as much top to bottom is the Wemo Video Doorbell (with a 178-degree vertical), but that has an overwrought fish-eye effect, whereas the Ecobee manages to look largely normal.</p><div><div><p><h3>Ecobee Smart Doorbell Camera specs </h3></p><div><ul><li>Power: Wired</li><li>Size: 5.35â€ high, 1.85â€ wide, 1.14â€ deep</li><li>Video: 1080p HD video, 5MP image sensor</li><li>Field of view: 187 degrees diagonal, 175 degrees vertical / 115 degrees horizontal</li><li>Aspect ratio: 3:4 portrait </li><li>Night Vision: IR over 30 feet</li><li>Zoom: 8x digital </li><li>Audio: Two-way, full-duplex</li><li>Weather resistance: IP65, -13 to 113 degrees F</li><li>Connectivity: Wi-Fi, dual-band 2.4 and 5 GHz </li><li>Warranty: 3 years</li></ul></div></div></div><p>Design-wise, the Ecobee doorbell is nothing new. Black with a white casing and a prominent button with an LED ring encircling it, it does have a high-end look and feel, with a machined glass front and an aluminum alloy back casing. I do wish they had dispensed with the branding. For a wired buzzer that doesn’t need room for the big battery you find in all battery-powered doorbells, it’s quite large. It also doesn’t have a back-up battery (common in wired doorbells). Ecobee says this helps it endure more extreme temperatures. It’s IP65 rated and operates in temps of -13 to 113 degrees Fahrenheit. It’s a mild fall in South Carolina right now, so I wasn’t able to put this weatherproofing to the test.</p><p>The doorbell works with existing mechanical and digital chimes and, through Amazon Alexa and Apple Home integrations, can also use Echo speakers or HomePods to sound the alert when somebody rings the doorbell.</p><p>Viewing a livestream and using two-way talk through my iPhone and through the thermostat was smooth and audio was clear. I like the option of activating the doorbell’s siren from the app, and you can do all this without a subscription. Plus, you get free smart alerts for people and the option to set one activity zone. </p><p>You’ll need to pay if you want alerts for package detection, rich notifications, and unlimited motion-activated recordings — each running a very long two minutes. There’s no option for local storage or support for HomeKit Secure Video. Ecobee’s indoor camera did get HKSV support after its launch, and Ecobee tells me it’s something they’re exploring, but I wouldn’t bet on it. </p><div><div><div><div aria-label=\"Zoom\" role=\"button\" tabindex=\"0\"><figure><div><p><span><img alt=\"Installing the Ecobee was similar to most wired doorbells, although the chime box adaptor (center) required some extra steps.\" data-nimg=\"fill\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7\"></img></span></p></div></figure></div></div><p><figcaption><em>Installing the Ecobee was similar to most wired doorbells, although the chime box adaptor (center) required some extra steps.</em></figcaption></p></div></div><p><h3>Install and testing</h3></p><p>As a wired doorbell, you don’t have to worry about charging the Ecobee, and thanks to always-on power and radar motion detection, it picked up on all the action early, catching the UPS guy as he walked up my long driveway. A lot of doorbells I test only get people just as they approach the door, because they rely on passive infrared (PIR) sensors, which have a shorter range, and/or battery power. If someone is fast enough, I only see the back of their head as they drop and run. The downside with the Ecobee is that if the power goes out, the doorbell is dead in the water, as there’s no backup battery. </p><p>I installed the Ecobee at my front door using my existing doorbell wiring (here’s a <a href=\"https://support.ecobee.com/s/articles/Check-that-ecobee-Smart-Doorbell-Camera-wired-is-compatible-with-your-home?deviceId=f4x2ZXFCjnAlIxTRU9_yGW&amp;sessionId=1697549228315&amp;_ga=2.25358196.854161253.1697464284-2135347898.1697464284&amp;_gac=1.215034725.1697468560.CjwKCAjwvrOpBhBdEiwAR58-3GKcKOVU7qVIMEcLvgXKmyN63EESd24GSHy5PdgZm4cOF8K2GAitvxoCk3AQAvD_BwE\">compatibility checker</a>). Installation was straightforward, and it comes with the option of a wedge mount to help angle the camera 15 degrees toward your door. As with most wired doorbells, I also had to install a chime converter in my mechanical chime box. Ecobee says this step is essential for ensuring the doorbell gets the correct power. </p><p>The app walked me through everything clearly and prompted me to use the Ecobee thermostat and Ecobee SmartCamera as indoor chimes for the doorbell. I could also opt to use or disable my existing chime. As I was testing the camera with the security system, I got the option to sign up for RapidSOS professional monitoring ($10 a month) and to opt in to sharing video clips from the doorbell and the indoor camera with emergency services. This video verification feature available with some security systems — including SimpliSafe and Arlo — can help expedite a response.</p><p>The doorbell shows up in the Ecobee app, which — with the security system and thermostats in — is now a little cluttered. Tapping on the doorbell tile takes you to a live view where you can activate two-way talk, record a clip, take a snapshot, and sound a siren. To see recorded video, you tap on View History and see large thumbnails of any motion-activated clips. There’s no way to filter these by activity or time, so you have to scroll through to find what you’re looking for.</p><p>I also set the doorbell up with Apple Home by scanning the HomeKit code on the doorbell mounting plate. While there’s no way to see recorded video in Apple Home, you can view a livestream on your Apple TV and in the Home app and, when the doorbell is pressed, receive an interactive notification that lets you see and talk to your visitor. A neat feature of the integration is that if you have a smart door lock — such as the Yale Assure 2 Lock I currently have installed — you can control the lock directly from the notification. </p><p>Ecobee also works with Amazon Alexa to view livestreams and talk to and hear visitors through Echo Show smart displays and the Alexa app. Unfortunately, the security side of Ecobee’s system doesn’t work in Apple Home, but it does in Alexa. The sensors — both the security sensors and the temp / occupancy sensors — work on both platforms to trigger routines and automations. The security system doesn’t work with Apple Home but is compatible with Alexa; you can arm and disarm with voice (using a voice pin).  </p><p>Where most doorbells use PIR motion detection, the Ecobee uses a combination of radar motion detection, computer vision, and on-device machine learning to detect activity and send appropriate alerts. It’s not the first to do this; Ring has radar-powered detection on its Ring Pro 2 and Ring Battery Plus. </p><p>In testing, Ecobee’s sensing was much more accurate than PIR alone at detecting relevant motion — I didn’t get a single alert for a tree branch blowing in the wind or a car driving by. The combination of radar and computer vision seems to be key here. Ecobee calls it sensor fusion. “Computer vision can detect a person far away, but it can’t necessarily determine how far away they are,â€ explains Greg Fyke, chief product officer of Ecobee. Combining radar with computer vision provides more context, including how far away the motion is. </p><div><div><div aria-label=\"Zoom\" role=\"button\" tabindex=\"0\"><section aria-label=\"Ecobee testing — alerts and notifications carousel\" tabindex=\"-1\"><p><span><img alt=\"&lt;em>Rich notifications alow you to interact with the doorbell from your lock screen. Tapping on Talk opens the Ecobee app.&lt;/em>\" data-nimg=\"fill\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7\"></img></span><span><img alt=\"&lt;em>Night vision uses infrared and gives you a clear view of faces.&lt;/em>\" data-nimg=\"fill\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7\"></img></span><span><img alt=\"&lt;em>My cat Smokey didn’t trigger the motion detection so was left out in the cold a bit longer than he would have liked.&lt;/em>\" data-nimg=\"fill\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7\"></img></span><span><img alt=\"&lt;em>Using the Apple Home integration you can lock and unlock compatible locks right from the notification screen.&lt;/em>\" data-nimg=\"fill\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7\"></img></span></p><div><p>1/4</p><p><figcaption><em>Rich notifications alow you to interact with the doorbell from your lock screen. Tapping on Talk opens the Ecobee app.</em></figcaption></p></div></section></div></div></div><p>Alone, radar and computer vision will still detect any motion, but the Ecobee takes both inputs and uses local processing to filter and determine only when a person or a package has been detected. It was very accurate in testing. I never once received a false notification; there was always a person or package when the doorbell said there was. </p><p>However, as noted earlier, the system prioritizes packages, meaning it didn’t send me an alert when a person approached my door if a package was already there. This is a major issue if you are concerned about porch pirates, one of the main reasons people buy video doorbells. You can get around this by turning off package alerts, then you get the person notification (package alerts are also a paid feature), but this is something they need to fix quickly. </p><p>The other oddity is that when I walked out of the front door without fully leaving my house, say to pick up a package on the porch and go back in, it didn’t detect me or record me. This could cause a lot of confusion if, say, one household member was monitoring a package on the doorstep remotely and didn’t realize someone in the house had already retrieved it — because the doorbell didn’t capture that event.</p><div><div><div aria-label=\"Zoom\" role=\"button\" tabindex=\"0\"><section aria-label=\"Ecobee testing — image quality carousel\" tabindex=\"-1\"><p><span><img alt=\"&lt;em>This image shows a FedEx delivery person collecting a package from my font door. The doorbell only alerted me to a package being present, not a person. So I missed him taking the package away.&lt;/em>\" data-nimg=\"fill\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7\"></img></span><span><img alt=\"&lt;em>This image shows a slightly zoomed-in view with clear video quality.&lt;/em>\" data-nimg=\"fill\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7\"></img></span><span><img alt=\"&lt;em>The HDR imaging makes faces clearer when backlit, but here the 1080p quality is a bit pixelated.&lt;/em>\" data-nimg=\"fill\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7\"></img></span></p><div><p>1/3</p><p><figcaption><em>This image shows a FedEx delivery person collecting a package from my font door. The doorbell only alerted me to a package being present, not a person. So I missed him taking the package away.</em></figcaption></p></div></section></div></div></div><p>In this vein, the doorbell doesn’t send alerts for just motion (and you can’t turn them on yet; Ecobee says this feature will be enabled shortly after launch). It can record all motion events and let you view them in the video history. In my testing, this was hit or miss, and I didn’t get motion recording from events that trigger other doorbell cameras, such as a car driving past, even with the adjustable motion range extended to the maximum 30 feet. </p><p>This alert tailoring is all an effort to make the doorbell less annoying, and I did receive far fewer alerts from it than from the Ring Battery Plus I also had installed at my door. However, I like getting alerts for motion. My cat, Smokey, who has become accustomed to sitting at the front door and having it magically open (because I get a motion alert on my phone and come and let him in), started to get quite annoyed with the new setup. He also wasn’t large enough to trigger the motion detection on the camera, as it never even recorded him sitting there. </p><p>While the technology is impressive, Ecobee has a lot of tweaking to do here to fine-tune the experience.</p><p>The doorbell’s 1080p HD video quality is fine, but I would have liked to see a bump up in image quality. Almost every price-comparable option today uses higher pixels. The 5MP sensor helps with color rendering, and HDR imaging meant I could see faces clearly, even when backlit. But as soon as I zoomed in, things started to pixelate. The standard IR night vision is also good. </p><p>An excellent field of view somewhat makes up for this, however. With 187 degrees on the diagonal and 175 on the vertical, the 3:4 portrait aspect ratio shows everything clearly from top to bottom and plenty from side to side. There’s no weird fish-eye distortion as I’ve seen on a lot of doorbells that promise head-to-toe view, and it even showed packages that were pushed right up against the door, something the Ring Battery Plus completely missed.</p><p>A neat zoom and track feature on the camera zooms in on a person as they approach and tracks them to give you a better view of their face sooner. However, because of the 1080p video, the face isn’t that clear from a distance, and once they get up close, the camera often gets confused and focuses on their chest, defeating the entire purpose. This feature is in beta, so it will hopefully get better.</p><p>The lack of local storage, 24/7 recording, or HomeKit Secure Video is disappointing. However, Ecobee’s arguments for these decisions — that they would increase the price significantly — make sense; $160 is a good price for a doorbell this advanced. But the argument is that their advanced motion detection means you don’t <em>need</em> 24/7 recording because it will always alert you when you need it doesn’t hold as much water, considering it didn’t catch me retrieving packages from inside my house.</p><p>The other annoyance is Ecobee’s app. It’s just not designed as a security camera / security system app; it’s for controlling a smart thermostat. As such, it’s a bit clunky and slow to navigate, with a lot of scrolling to see recorded footage. It took upwards of about 10 seconds to show a live feed as well, although it was on 2.4 GHz in my house, and that likely would be faster if you could get it onto 5GHz, which it does support. </p><p>The app does some things well. The live view screen is large and well-laid out, and there are plenty of settings to tinker with. I like the option to turn off the camera and microphone completely, although I was disappointed you can’t set it to turn off automatically using Ecobee’s Autopilot system. This is a feature the security system and indoor camera use to arm and disarm when you or anyone in your household with the Ecobee app installed on their phone leaves or arrives both through geofencing and using its connection to your Wi-Fi network as signals. </p><div><div><div><div aria-label=\"Zoom\" role=\"button\" tabindex=\"0\"><figure><div><p><span><img alt=\"The Ecobee doorbell alongside the Nest doorbell (wired).\" data-nimg=\"fill\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7\"></img></span></p></div></figure></div></div><p><figcaption><em>The Ecobee doorbell alongside the Nest doorbell (wired).</em></figcaption></p></div></div><p><h3>Should you buy the Ecobee Smart Doorbell Camera?</h3></p><p>The Ecobee Smart Doorbell Camera is a well-designed, innovative doorbell with unique features that make it stand out from the crowded market. Its radar / computer vision motion detection is accurate, and its field of view is all-encompassing without distortion. But when it comes to software, it needs some work. The Nest Doorbell (wired), which offers some free clips, has more and smarter alerts, the option for 24/7 recording, and better video quality, is still my <a href=\"/22954554/best-video-doorbell-camera\">top pick for a video doorbell.</a></p><p>However, if you own an Ecobee Smart Thermostat in a useful location in your home, Ecobee’s doorbell camera is a good option. Glancing at it on the way to the door and having a heads-up as to what you’re about to see is very cool. This integration is also coming to the less expensive <a href=\"/2019/6/3/18646398/ecobee-smartthermostat-review-alexa-announcement-price-specs-features\">Ecobee with Voice Control</a> and Ecobee Standard thermostats later this year. </p><p>If you don’t have an Ecobee Thermostat, it’s still a good doorbell. Specifically, its tailored notifications, which translate into fewer alerts, will appeal to people who don’t feel the need to know about every squirrel that passes their front door. But as noted, it’s not for people who have porch pirate problems.</p><p>For those fully invested in a smart home system that don’t have any other Ecobee products, this probably isn’t for you. At $160, it’s competitively priced, but it’s not a bargain. It’s less expensive than the Ring Pro 2, but the Ring has better video quality and better integration with Amazon Alexa. It’s more expensive than the similarly specced Arlo Essential Wired doorbell ($129.99), which also works with Apple Home but not HomeKit Secure Video, but that has more smart alert options (including for animals and vehicles). As mentioned, if you are a Google Home household, the Nest Doorbell (wired) is excellent, and at launch, the Ecobee doesn’t work with Google Home.</p><div><div><div><div aria-label=\"Zoom\" role=\"button\" tabindex=\"0\"><figure><div><p><span><img alt=\"The Ecobee app works on the Apple Watch and you can control the doorbell through Apple Home.\" data-nimg=\"fill\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7\"></img></span></p></div></figure></div></div><p><figcaption><em>The Ecobee app works on the Apple Watch and you can control the doorbell through Apple Home.</em></figcaption></p></div></div><p>If you’re looking for a wired doorbell camera that works with Apple Home, it’s one of the least expensive options. It looks nicer and has a better build quality than the <a href=\"/23654936/aqara-g4-video-doorbell-review#:~:text=The%20Aqara%20doesn\'t%20blend,gray%20plastic%20on%20your%20doorjamb.\">Aqara video doorbell</a>, which has a similar price and HomeKit Secure Video support. The Ecobee doesn’t support HKSV, so you’ll be paying a monthly fee for recorded video. Other higher-end doorbells that support HKSV are $200 or more, but that monthly fee does add up.</p><p>As a simple, inexpensive home security system, Ecobee’s doorbell is compelling when paired with the Smart Sensors. If you’ve just moved into a small apartment and want some peace of mind, this is an easy-to-install system that will only cost you $10 a month for recorded video, 24/7 monitoring, and video verification. However, the lack of a backup battery or cellular connectivity does let it down (but is also what makes it so affordable),</p><p>Additionally, as with all its products, Ecobee has over-engineered this device, so like its thermostat, it may get better with age. “The doorbell, as well as our thermostats and our whole class of products, are really engineered to be designed for future needs,â€ says Fyke. While you should never buy a product based on the promise of future upgrades, Ecobee’s history is a good indicator here. The Ecobee 3 you might have bought seven years ago now does considerably more today.</p><div><div><p><h3>AGREE TO CONTINUE: Ecobee Smart Doorbell Camera</h3></p><p><em>Every smart device now requires you to agree to a series of terms and conditions before you can use it — contracts that no one actually reads. It’s impossible for us to read and analyze every single one of these agreements. But we started counting exactly how many times you have to hit “agreeâ€ to use devices when we review them since these are agreements most people don’t read and definitely can’t negotiate.</em></p><p>To use the Ecobee smart doorbell camera you need to download the Ecobee app (iOS and Android) and create a free Ecobee account. This requires accepting <a href=\"https://go.redirectingat.com/?xs=1&amp;id=1025X1701640&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.ecobee.com%2Fen-us%2Fprivacy-policy%2F%23%3A~%3Atext%3Decobee%2520does%2520not%2520sell%2520your%2Cyour%2520Personal%2520Information%2520by%2520ecobee.&amp;xcust=___vg__p_22840886__t_w__r_https://voxmedia.stories.usechorus.com/__d_D\">Ecobee’s Privacy Policy and Terms of Use.</a></p><p>Final tally one mandatory agreement.</p></div></div><div><div><p><h3>SMART HOME DATA PRIVACY: Ecobee Smart Doorbell Camera</h3></p><p><em>Bringing connected devices into your home also brings with it concerns about how the data they collect is protected. The Verge asks each company whose smart home products we review about safeguards it has in place for your data.</em></p><p><strong>What data does Ecobee collect from users when they install the Ecobee app to use the doorbell? </strong> “Ecobee only collects data related to each product’s or service’s functions (i.e. email, address, location). ecobee does not sell this data. And when your data is no longer needed for a particular purpose, we will delete it.â€ </p><p><strong>Is this data required to use the doorbell?</strong> “An ecobee account including an email address and address are required to use the doorbell.â€ </p><p><strong>How is user data stored and secured?</strong> “We store the data encrypted using AES256 encryption. Data in transit is protected using TLS 1.2.â€  </p><p><strong>Does Ecobee share and/or sell user data with third parties?</strong> “At Ecobee, we take privacy very seriously and never sell customer data. We do not share data for advertising or marketing purposes.â€ </p><p><strong>Can users request the deletion of their data? If so, how?</strong> “An Ecobee user, regardless of where they live, can request to have their data deleted directly through the Ecobee app.â€ </p><p><strong>What sensors are on the doorbell itself, and what data do they collect?</strong> “The Smart Doorbell Camera has a 5MP image sensor for capturing video, and a radar sensor for advanced verification. Video and image data and radar verification are monitored on-device to detect events, such as visitors approaching the door. </p><p>“Video, image, and radar data are collected when an event occurs and is saved to the cloud for up to 30 days with a Smart Security subscription. After the 30th day, the data is irreversibly deleted.â€  </p><p><strong>Does audio and video footage leave the device and if so, where is it stored?</strong> “We provide 30-day storage with Ecobee Smart Security. All customer data that is securely transferred to the cloud is stored and maintained by industry-leading data center service providers and encrypted using AES256. On-device processing saves bandwidth and keeps video content private. Only recorded video is stored.â€ </p><p><strong>What are the security protections in place for recorded footage stored in the cloud?</strong> “All customer data that is securely transferred into the cloud is stored and maintained by industry-leading data center service providers.â€  </p><p><strong>Does Ecobee have access to video or audio footage? </strong> “We have strict policies and technical measures to prevent unauthorized employee access to your data (including sound and video recordings). And when your data is no longer needed for a particular purpose, we will delete it.â€</p><p><strong>What policies does Ecobee have regarding sharing footage with police or other authorities?</strong> “Ecobee has a partnership with RapidSOS to provide 24/7 professional monitoring for customers in the U.S. who subscribe to Ecobee Smart Security Complete. If the homeowner is unable to respond to critical alerts, RapidSOS agents can verify the emergency before securely sharing data with 911, including video evidence captured by Smart Doorbell Camera, to enable a faster response time. </p><p>“The customer is in control of which cameras’ clips can be shared with RapidSOS in the event of an incident escalation and during professional monitoring setup, explicit user selection of those cameras is required. Otherwise, footage will only be shared as with the customer’s permission or a verified court order.â€ </p></div></div><p><em>Photos by Jennifer Pattison Tuohy  / The Verge</em></p></div>', 'Now you can see your doorbell on your thermostat.', 'https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/U9mmYEeXpzRX4t0fZf2ZZkhmOUM=/0x0:2040x1360/1200x628/filters:focal(1020x680:1021x681)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/25000857/236841_Ecobee_smart_doorbell_review_JTuohy_0001.jpg', '169', NULL, NULL, '73', 'newsapi', NULL, NULL, '2023-11-13', '728', '0', '0', NULL, NULL, NULL),
(583, 'Woman Gets New Cat—and Months of Diarrhea, in Possible Medical First', '<div><p>A woman’s newly adopted cat may have brought her an unwelcome gift: a bacterial germ that caused her months of diarrhea. In a new case report this month, doctors say that the woman’s bout of recurrent <em>Clostridioides difficile</em> could have been fueled by her cat, who also tested positive for the bacteria. Thankfully, both the cat and the owner were eventually treated successfully, but the case might represent the first known instance of cat-to-human transmission of the infection.</p><div><div><div><div data-current=\"196007\" data-playlist=\"196007,196002,195990\"><div><div><div data-monetizable=\"true\" data-position=\"sidebar\" data-video-blog-id=\"4\" data-video-duration=\"94\" data-video-id=\"196007\" data-video-network=\"gizmodo\" data-video-title=\"What Inspired Dominic Monaghan\'s Performance in Moriarty?\"><div><p>What Inspired Dominic Monaghan\'s Performance in Moriarty?</p></div><video crossorigin=\"anonymous\" disablepictureinpicture=\"\" height=\"100%\" muted=\"\" playsinline=\"\" preload=\"none\" width=\"100%\"><source data-src=\"https://vid.kinja.com/prod/196007/196007_240p.mp4\" label=\"240p\" type=\"video/mp4\"></source><source data-src=\"https://vid.kinja.com/prod/196007/196007_480p.mp4\" label=\"480p\" type=\"video/mp4\"></source><source data-src=\"https://vid.kinja.com/prod/196007/196007_720p.mp4\" label=\"720p\" type=\"video/mp4\"></source><source data-src=\"https://vid.kinja.com/prod/196007/196007_1080p.mp4\" label=\"1080p\" type=\"video/mp4\"></source><track kind=\"captions\" label=\"English\" src=\"https://kinja.com/api/videoupload/caption/21527.vtt\" srclang=\"en\"></track></video></div></div></div></div></div></div></div><p><em>Clostridioides difficile</em>, also called <span><a data-ga=\"[[&quot;Embedded Url&quot;,&quot;External link&quot;,&quot;https://www.cdc.gov/cdiff/what-is.html&quot;,{&quot;metric25&quot;:1}]]\" href=\"https://www.cdc.gov/cdiff/what-is.html\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\">C. diff</a></span>, is a ubiquitous source of gastrointestinal misery, typically causing diarrhea and colitis (inflammation of the colon). It’s estimated that nearly half a million C. diff infections occur in the U.S. every year, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. But what makes the germ more pernicious is that it commonly reappears after the initial illness fades away, even with antibiotic treatment. About one in six people sickened by C. diff will become sick again within the following two to eight weeks, either from the original infection or catching a new one.</p><p>Recurrent C. diff is a painful experience for anyone, but it’s more common and outright life-threatening for already vulnerable people, such as the elderly and hospitalized. In 2017, there were an <span><a data-ga=\"[[&quot;Embedded Url&quot;,&quot;External link&quot;,&quot;https://www.cdc.gov/hai/organisms/cdiff/cdiff_infect.html&quot;,{&quot;metric25&quot;:1}]]\" href=\"https://www.cdc.gov/hai/organisms/cdiff/cdiff_infect.html\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\">estimated</a></span> 223,900 such cases in hospitalized patients and 12,800 related deaths in the United States.</p><p>One of the most important risk factors for C. diff is a preceding disruption of the gut microbiota, the community of normally harmless or beneficial bacteria that live along our digestive tract. This can happen after people take broad-spectrum antibiotics to treat other infections, which is one reason why C. diff is common in hospitals. However, the authors of this case report believe there was an added furry element to their patient’s infection.</p><p>According to their paper, <span><a data-ga=\"[[&quot;Embedded Url&quot;,&quot;External link&quot;,&quot;https://amjcaserep.com/abstract/index/idArt/940923&quot;,{&quot;metric25&quot;:1}]]\" href=\"https://amjcaserep.com/abstract/index/idArt/940923\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\">published</a></span> last week in the American Journal of Case Reports, the previously healthy 31-year-old patient first developed severe diarrhea soon after she finished a week’s course of antibiotics to treat a urinary tract infection. She was briefly monitored in the hospital, diagnosed with C. diff, and given a new two-week course of antibiotics.</p><p>The treatment seemed to work at first, but two months later, she returned to a primary care clinic with the same symptoms and once again tested positive for the infection. Continued antibiotic therapy was even less effective this time, and at a follow-up visit a month later she reported still having bouts of diarrhea, now about every four hours. During that visit, she asked if it was possible that her newly adopted cat—found as a stray a month before her illness began—could have contributed to her infection.</p><p>The woman was given different antibiotics, and she decided to have the cat examined by her vet and tested for C. diff. The cat did indeed test positive for the bacteria, though appeared to have no symptoms, and was given treatment. Right around that same time, the woman had been referred to a gastroenterologist, who prescribed her a new antibody-based treatment for her C. diff. The woman reported that her illness only began to clear up after both she and the cat were treated for their infection. And at a follow-up visit two months later, doctors confirmed that she was finally symptom-free.</p><p>“In conclusion, given the temporal relationship between the patient’s symptom onset and the adoption of the cat, and given the resolution of the patient’s symptoms following treatment of the cat, it is possible that the patient acquired <em>C. difficile</em> from the cat,â€ the authors wrote.</p><p>The authors’ hypothesis of the C. diff cat, it should be noted, is based on circumstantial evidence. There is <span><a data-ga=\"[[&quot;Embedded Url&quot;,&quot;External link&quot;,&quot;https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27767004/&quot;,{&quot;metric25&quot;:1}]]\" href=\"https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27767004/\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\">other research</a></span> suggesting that people can pass on the infection to their pets, but this would be the first known case of a pet transmitting C. diff to a human. It’s also possible that the transmission chain is even more complicated than it seems. The woman may have caught C. diff from somewhere else, which she then transmitted to her cat. At some point in between her multiple antibiotic treatments, the cat might have given it back to her, restarting the diarrhea carousel all over again. And of course, the cat could be entirely blameless here, their infection being a red herring that had nothing to do with their owner’s misery.</p><p>At the very least, the authors say, this case should provoke other doctors and researchers to further investigate whether pets and other animals that interact with people can be a reservoir for recurrent C. diff, which could become a <span><a data-ga=\"[[&quot;Embedded Url&quot;,&quot;External link&quot;,&quot;https://www.jwatch.org/fw115981/2019/10/31/c-diff-infections-increasingly-community-acquired&quot;,{&quot;metric25&quot;:1}]]\" href=\"https://www.jwatch.org/fw115981/2019/10/31/c-diff-infections-increasingly-community-acquired\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\">more common</a></span> public health threat even outside of hospitals.</p><p>“This case highlights the importance of comprehensive history taking and considers the zoonotic transmission of C. difficile as a novelâ€ cause of community-acquired C. diff, the authors wrote.</p></div>', 'A woman’s newly adopted cat may have brought her an unwelcome gift: a bacterial germ that caused her months of diarrhea. In a new case report this month, doctors say that the woman’s bout of recurrent Clostridioides difficile could have been fueled by her cat…', 'https://i.kinja-img.com/image/upload/c_fill,h_675,pg_1,q_80,w_1200/3d370461b33ae07799f184380ee41e2f.jpg', '169', NULL, NULL, '73', 'newsapi', NULL, NULL, '2023-11-13', '728', '0', '0', NULL, NULL, NULL);
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(584, 'Stop Letting Your Babies Play With Dog Food', '<div><p>A salmonella outbreak in humans has been traced back to a very-not-human source: dog food. Federal health officials determined that at least seven people, mostly infants, have gotten sick from certain brands of dry dog food. Mid America Pet Food, the company implicated in the outbreak,  recalled all of its dog and cat food brands with best-by dates prior to Oct. 31, 2024.</p><div><div><div><div data-current=\"196007\" data-playlist=\"196007,196002,195990\"><div><div><div data-monetizable=\"true\" data-position=\"sidebar\" data-video-blog-id=\"4\" data-video-duration=\"94\" data-video-id=\"196007\" data-video-network=\"gizmodo\" data-video-title=\"What Inspired Dominic Monaghan\'s Performance in Moriarty?\"><div><p>What Inspired Dominic Monaghan\'s Performance in Moriarty?</p></div><video crossorigin=\"anonymous\" disablepictureinpicture=\"\" height=\"100%\" muted=\"\" playsinline=\"\" preload=\"none\" width=\"100%\"><source data-src=\"https://vid.kinja.com/prod/196007/196007_240p.mp4\" label=\"240p\" type=\"video/mp4\"></source><source data-src=\"https://vid.kinja.com/prod/196007/196007_480p.mp4\" label=\"480p\" type=\"video/mp4\"></source><source data-src=\"https://vid.kinja.com/prod/196007/196007_720p.mp4\" label=\"720p\" type=\"video/mp4\"></source><source data-src=\"https://vid.kinja.com/prod/196007/196007_1080p.mp4\" label=\"1080p\" type=\"video/mp4\"></source><track kind=\"captions\" label=\"English\" src=\"https://kinja.com/api/videoupload/caption/21527.vtt\" srclang=\"en\"></track></video></div></div></div></div></div></div></div><p>The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Food and Drug Administration <span><a data-ga=\"[[&quot;Embedded Url&quot;,&quot;External link&quot;,&quot;https://www.cdc.gov/salmonella/kiambu-11-23/index.html&quot;,{&quot;metric25&quot;:1}]]\" href=\"https://www.cdc.gov/salmonella/kiambu-11-23/index.html\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\">jointly</a></span> <span><a data-ga=\"[[&quot;Embedded Url&quot;,&quot;External link&quot;,&quot;https://www.fda.gov/animal-veterinary/outbreaks-and-advisories/fda-and-cdc-investigate-cases-salmonella-linked-pet-food-made-mid-america-pet-food-multiple-brands&quot;,{&quot;metric25&quot;:1}]]\" href=\"https://www.fda.gov/animal-veterinary/outbreaks-and-advisories/fda-and-cdc-investigate-cases-salmonella-linked-pet-food-made-mid-america-pet-food-multiple-brands\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\">announced</a></span> an investigation into the outbreak Thursday. The first inklings of the problem emerged in early September when the FDA <span><a data-ga=\"[[&quot;Embedded Url&quot;,&quot;External link&quot;,&quot;https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/mid-america-pet-food-issues-voluntary-recall-due-possible-salmonella-health-risk&quot;,{&quot;metric25&quot;:1}]]\" href=\"https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/mid-america-pet-food-issues-voluntary-recall-due-possible-salmonella-health-risk\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\">reported</a></span> that the South Carolina Department of Agriculture detected salmonella in one of the company’s dry dog food brands as part of a random sample test. The Texas-based company soon issued a voluntary recall of a specific lot of that brand and issued a <span><a data-ga=\"[[&quot;Embedded Url&quot;,&quot;External link&quot;,&quot;https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/mid-america-pet-food-issues-voluntary-recall-victor-beef-meal-rice-dog-food-due-possible-salmonella&quot;,{&quot;metric25&quot;:1}]]\" href=\"https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/mid-america-pet-food-issues-voluntary-recall-victor-beef-meal-rice-dog-food-due-possible-salmonella\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\">second recall</a></span> in late October after more lots were found contaminated with the bacteria at their production facility.</p><p>The culprit is a subtype of the bacteria called Salmonella <em>Kiambu</em>. Typically, salmonella infections cause diarrhea (sometimes bloody), fever, and stomach cramps that last for up to a week. As of Nov. 9, seven cases of the outbreak have been documented, with the earliest dating back to January 2023. One person was hospitalized as a result, but no deaths have been recorded. Because most cases of salmonella resolve on their own without the need for medical treatment, though, it’s likely that the outbreak is much larger than reported.</p><p>According to the CDC, people have gotten sick from either touching the dog food, touching food bowls that contained it, or touching the poop or saliva of dogs that were fed the dog food. All but one of the reported cases involved children under the age of one. Young children, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems are more likely to experience severe symptoms from salmonella and other foodborne infections. Pets often don’t become sick from salmonella, though they can still spread it to humans and can become sick if they’re in worse health already.</p><p>Mid America Pet Food has now expanded its recall to cover all dog and cat brands with best-by dates before Oct. 31, 2024. These products include various-sized bags and flavors of Victor Super Premium Dog Food, Wayne Feeds Cat Food, and Eagle Mountain Pet Food Pro Balance for dogs. A full list of the affected products can be found in the FDA’s <span><a data-ga=\"[[&quot;Embedded Url&quot;,&quot;External link&quot;,&quot;https://www.fda.gov/animal-veterinary/outbreaks-and-advisories/fda-and-cdc-investigate-cases-salmonella-linked-pet-food-made-mid-america-pet-food-multiple-brands&quot;,{&quot;metric25&quot;:1}]]\" href=\"https://www.fda.gov/animal-veterinary/outbreaks-and-advisories/fda-and-cdc-investigate-cases-salmonella-linked-pet-food-made-mid-america-pet-food-multiple-brands\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\">announcement</a></span>.</p><p>The CDC is also recommending that people generally <span><a data-ga=\"[[&quot;Embedded Url&quot;,&quot;External link&quot;,&quot;https://www.cdc.gov/healthypets/keeping-pets-and-people-healthy/pet-food-safety.html&quot;,{&quot;metric25&quot;:1}]]\" href=\"https://www.cdc.gov/healthypets/keeping-pets-and-people-healthy/pet-food-safety.html\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\">take steps</a></span> to handle their pet’s food safely. People should regularly clean pet food and water bowls, food scoops, treat toys, feeding mats, and placemats. They should also wash their hands with soap and water before and after handling pet food, and avoid their pet licking them in the face and mouth right after a meal. Pet owners should also make sure their fur babies aren’t licking their open wounds. As a general rule, people shouldn’t feed their pets  raw pet food or treats either, since these products are more likely to contain germs that can make pets and their owners sick.</p></div>', 'A salmonella outbreak in humans has been traced back to a very-not-human source: dog food. Federal health officials determined that at least seven people, mostly infants, have gotten sick from certain brands of dry dog food. Mid America Pet Food, the company …', 'https://i.kinja-img.com/image/upload/c_fill,h_675,pg_1,q_80,w_1200/c1ee9eabefee86843c94f2eb1bd597f2.jpg', '169', NULL, NULL, '73', 'newsapi', NULL, NULL, '2023-11-13', '728', '0', '0', NULL, NULL, NULL);
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(585, 'Read the First Chapter of Queer Space Opera Debut These Burning Stars', '<div><p>Bethany Jacobs’ <span><a data-ga=\"[[&quot;Embedded Url&quot;,&quot;Internal link&quot;,&quot;https://gizmodo.com/hurricane-wars-thea-guanzon-debut-fantasy-novel-excerpt-1850578990&quot;,{&quot;metric25&quot;:1}]]\" href=\"https://gizmodo.com/hurricane-wars-thea-guanzon-debut-fantasy-novel-excerpt-1850578990\">debut novel</a></span>, <em>These Burning Stars</em>, <span><a data-ga=\"[[&quot;Embedded Url&quot;,&quot;Internal link&quot;,&quot;https://gizmodo.com/70-new-sci-fi-fantasy-horror-books-october-jordan-peele-1850805087&quot;,{&quot;metric25&quot;:1}]]\" href=\"https://gizmodo.com/70-new-sci-fi-fantasy-horror-books-october-jordan-peele-1850805087\">hits shelves tomorrow</a></span>—but io9 has the first chapter here for you to read today. Do you like sci-fi <span><a data-ga=\"[[&quot;Embedded Url&quot;,&quot;Internal link&quot;,&quot;https://gizmodo.com/blue-eye-samurai-netflix-animation-trailer-1850920500&quot;,{&quot;metric25&quot;:1}]]\" href=\"https://gizmodo.com/blue-eye-samurai-netflix-animation-trailer-1850920500\">tales of revenge</a></span>, dark secrets from the past that threaten to re-emerge, and thieves plotting schemes on forgotten planets? Read on for more!<br></br></p><div><div><div><div data-current=\"191120\" data-playlist=\"191120,192647,194268\"><div><div><div data-monetizable=\"true\" data-position=\"sidebar\" data-video-blog-id=\"4\" data-video-duration=\"117\" data-video-id=\"191120\" data-video-network=\"gizmodo\" data-video-title=\"Rainn Wilson’s First Fandoms: Star Trek And D&amp;D\"><div><p>Rainn Wilson’s First Fandoms: Star Trek And D&amp;D</p></div><video crossorigin=\"anonymous\" disablepictureinpicture=\"\" height=\"100%\" muted=\"\" playsinline=\"\" preload=\"none\" width=\"100%\"><source data-src=\"https://vid.kinja.com/prod/191120/191120_240p.mp4\" label=\"240p\" type=\"video/mp4\"></source><source data-src=\"https://vid.kinja.com/prod/191120/191120_480p.mp4\" label=\"480p\" type=\"video/mp4\"></source><source data-src=\"https://vid.kinja.com/prod/191120/191120_720p.mp4\" label=\"720p\" type=\"video/mp4\"></source><source data-src=\"https://vid.kinja.com/prod/191120/191120_1080p.mp4\" label=\"1080p\" type=\"video/mp4\"></source><track kind=\"captions\" label=\"English\" src=\"https://kinja.com/api/videoupload/caption/17187.vtt\" srclang=\"en\"></track></video></div></div></div></div></div></div></div><p>Here’s a plot description of <span><a data-amazonasin=\"0316463329\" data-amazontag=\"kinjagizmodolink-20\" data-ga=\"[]\" data-vtas-click=\"self:InlineUrl:inline-url-postbody\" href=\"https://www.amazon.com/These-Burning-Stars-Kindom-Trilogy/dp/0316463329?asc_campaign=kinjagizmodolink-20&amp;asc_refurl=https://gizmodo.com/read-queer-space-opera-excerpt-these-burning-stars-1850923378&amp;asc_source=&amp;tag=kinjagizmodolink-20\" rel=\"sponsored noopener noreferrer nofollow noskim\" target=\"_blank\"><em>These Burning Stars</em></a></span>, the first entry in the author’s Kindom Trilogy.</p><blockquote data-type=\"BlockQuote\"><p>A dangerous cat-and-mouse quest for revenge. An empire that spans star systems, built on the bones of a genocide. A carefully hidden secret that could collapse worlds, hunted by three women with secrets of their own. All collide in this explosive space opera debut from a powerful new voice in sci-fi.</p><p>On a dusty backwater planet, occasional thief Jun Ironway has gotten her hands on the score of a lifetime: a secret that could raze the Kindom, the ruling power of the galaxy.<br></br></p><p>A star system away, preternaturally stoic Chono and brilliant hothead Esek— the two most brutal clerics of the Kindom—are tasked with hunting Jun down.<br></br></p><p>And tracking all three across the stars is a ghost from their shared past known only as Six. But what Six wants is anyone’s guess. It’s a game of manipulation and betrayal that could destroy them all. And they have no choice but to see it through.<br></br></p></blockquote><p>Here’s the full cover; the cover design is by <span><a data-ga=\"[[&quot;Embedded Url&quot;,&quot;External link&quot;,&quot;http://laurenpanepinto.com/&quot;,{&quot;metric25&quot;:1}]]\" href=\"http://laurenpanepinto.com/\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\">Lauren Panepinto</a></span>; the cover scene is by <span><a data-ga=\"[[&quot;Embedded Url&quot;,&quot;External link&quot;,&quot;https://www.thomlab.com/&quot;,{&quot;metric25&quot;:1}]]\" href=\"https://www.thomlab.com/\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\">Thom Tenery</a></span>.</p><figure contenteditable=\"false\" data-format=\"png\" data-height=\"1200\" data-hide=\"false\" data-id=\"ebc470b9ff05a68fa81630c46b559671\" data-lightbox=\"true\" data-recommend-id=\"image://ebc470b9ff05a68fa81630c46b559671\" data-recommended=\"false\" data-width=\"778\" draggable=\"false\"><div contenteditable=\"false\" data-hide=\"false\" data-hidecredit=\"false\" data-imagerights=\"other-license\" data-link-reference=\"\" data-link-target=\"\" data-syndicationrights=\"true\"><p><span><div><picture><source data-srcset=\"https://i.kinja-img.com/image/upload/c_fit,q_60,w_645/ebc470b9ff05a68fa81630c46b559671.jpg\" media=\"(max-width: 37.31em)\" srcset=\"R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" type=\"image/jpeg\"></source><source data-srcset=\"https://i.kinja-img.com/image/upload/c_fit,q_60,w_645/ebc470b9ff05a68fa81630c46b559671.jpg\" media=\"(min-width: 37.37em)\" srcset=\"R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" type=\"image/jpeg\"></source><img alt=\"Image for article titled Read the First Chapter of Queer Space Opera Debut These Burning Stars\" data-alt=\"Image for article titled Read the First Chapter of Queer Space Opera Debut These Burning Stars\" data-anim-src=\"\" data-chomp-id=\"ebc470b9ff05a68fa81630c46b559671\" data-format=\"png\" data-src=\"https://i.kinja-img.com/image/upload/c_fit,q_60,w_645/ebc470b9ff05a68fa81630c46b559671.jpg\" src=\"R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\"></img></picture></div></span></p><p><figcaption>Image: Orbit</figcaption></p></div><span data-format=\"png\" data-height=\"1200\" data-hide=\"false\" data-id=\"ebc470b9ff05a68fa81630c46b559671\" data-lightbox=\"true\" data-recommend-id=\"image://ebc470b9ff05a68fa81630c46b559671\" data-recommended=\"false\" data-width=\"778\"></span></figure><hr></hr><h2 id=\"h1805\"><a id=\"\"></a>Chapter One</h2><p>1643. Year of the Letting </p><p><em>Kinschool of Principes</em></p><p><em>Loez Continent</em></p><p><em>The Planet Ma’kess</em></p><p>Her ship alighted on the tarmac with engines snarling, hot air billowing out from beneath the thrusters. The hatch opened with a hiss and she disembarked to the stench of the jump gate that had so recently spit her into Ma’kess’s orbit—a smell like piss and ozone. </p><p>Underfoot, blast burns scorched the ground, signatures from ships that had been coming and going for three hundred years. The township of Principes would have no cause for so much activity, if it weren’t for the kinschool that loomed ahead. </p><p>She was hungry. A little annoyed. There was a marble of nausea lodged in the base of her throat, a leftover effect of being flung from one star system to another in the space of two minutes. In these northern continents of the planet Ma’kess, it was colder and damper than the southern lands where she was born, and she disliked the monotonous sable plains flowing away from the tarmac. She disliked the filmy dampness in the air. If the kinschool master had brought her here for nothing, she would be very unhappy. </p><p>The school itself was all stone and mortar and austerity. Somber-looking effigies stared down at her from the parapet of the second story roof: the Six Gods, assembled like jurors. She looked over her shoulder at her trio of novitiates, huddled close to each other, watchful. Birds of prey in common brown. By contrast, she was quite resplendent in her red-gold coat, the ends swishing around her ankles as she started toward the open gates. She was a cleric of the Kindom; a holy woman; a member of the Righteous Hand. In this school were many students who longed to be clerics and saw her as the pinnacle of their own aspirations. But she doubted any had the potential to match her. </p><p>Already the kinschool master had appeared. They met in the small courtyard under the awning of the entryway, his excitement and eagerness instantly apparent. He bowed over his hands a degree lower than necessary, a simpering flattery. In these star systems, power resided in the Hands of the Kindom, and it resided in the First Families. She was both. </p><p>“Thank you for the honor of your presence, Burning One.â€ </p><p>She made a quick blessing over him, rote, and they walked together into the school. The novitiates trailed behind, silent as the statues that guarded the walls of the receiving hall. It had all looked bigger when she graduated seven years ago. </p><p>As if reading her mind, the kinschool master said, “It seems a lifetime since you were my student.â€</p><p>She chuckled, which he was welcome to take as friendly, or mocking. They walked down a hallway lined with portraiture of the most famous students and masters in the school’s history: Aver Paiye, Khen Sikhen Khen, Luto Moonback. All painted. No holograms. Indeed, outside the tech aptitude classrooms, casting technology was little-to-be-seen in this school. Not fifty miles away, her family’s factories produced the very sevite fuel that made jump travel and casting possible, yet here the masters lit their halls with torches, and sent messages to each other via couriers. As if training the future Hands was too holy a mission to tolerate basic conveniences.</p><p>The master said, “I hope your return pleases you?â€ </p><p>She wondered what they’d done with her own watercolor portrait. She recalled looking very smug in it, which, to be fair, was not an uncommon condition for her. </p><p>“I was on Teros when I got your message. Anywhere is better than that garbage rock.â€ </p><p>The master smiled timidly. “Of course. Teros is an unpleasant planet. Ma’kess is the planet of your heart. And the most beautiful of all!â€ He sounded like a damned tourist pamphlet, one extoling the virtues of the half dozen planets that populated the Treble’s three star systems. She grunted. He asked, “Was your trip pleasant?â€ </p><p>“Hardly any reentry disturbance. Didn’t even vomit during the jump.â€ </p><p>They both laughed, him a little nervously. They walked down a narrow flight of steps and turned onto the landing of a wider staircase of deep blue marble. She paused and went to the banister, gazing down at the room below. </p><p>Six children stood in a line, each as rigid as the staves they held at their sides. They couldn’t have been older than ten or eleven. They were dressed identically, in tunics and leggings, and their heads were shaved. They knew she was there, but they did not look up at her. Staring straight ahead, they put all their discipline on display, and she observed them like a butcher at a meat market. </p><p>“Fourth years,â€ she remarked, noticing the appliques on their chests. They were slender and elfin looking, even the bigger ones. No giants in this cohort. A pity. </p><p>“I promise you, Sa, you won’t be disappointed.â€ </p><p>She started down the staircase, brisk and cheerful, ignoring the students. They had no names, no gender marks—and no humanity as far as their teachers were concerned. They were called by numbers, given ‘it’ for a pronoun. She herself was called Three, once. Just another object, honed for a purpose. Legally, Treble children had the right to gender themselves as soon as they discovered what fit. But <em>these</em> children would have to wait until they graduated. Only then could they take genders and names. Only then would they have their own identities. </p><p>At the foot of the staircase, she made a sound at her novitiates. They didn’t follow her further, taking sentry on the last step. On the combat floor, she gloried in the familiar smells of wood and stone and sweat. Her hard-soled boots <em>clacked </em>pleasingly as she took a slow circle about the room, gazing up at the magnificent mural on the ceiling, of the Six Gods at war. A brilliant golden light fell upon them, emanating from the sunlike symbol of the Godfire—their parent god, their essence, and the core of the Treble’s faith. </p><p>She wandered around the room, brushing past the students as if they were scenery. The anticipation in the room ratcheted, the six students trying hard not to move. When she did finally look at them, it was with a quick twist of her neck, eyes locking on with predatory precision. All but one flinched, and she smiled at them.</p><p>She assumed these children had never seen anyone like her before. She was very young for a cleric, after all, and very beautiful. Clerics deeply valued beauty, which pleased gods and people alike. And <em>her</em> beauty was like the Godfire itself, consuming and hypnotic and deadly. </p><p>Add to this the thing she represented: not just the Clerisy itself, in all its holy power, but the future the students might have. When they finished their schooling (<em>if</em> they finished their schooling) they would be one step closer to a position like hers. They would have power and prestige and choice—to adopt gender marks, to take their family names again, or create new ones. But <em>so much</em> lay between them and that future. Six more years of school and then five years as a novitiate (not everyone could do it in three, like her). If all that went right, they’d receive an appointment to one of the three Hands of the Kindom. But only if they worked hard. Only if they survived. </p><p>Only if they were extraordinary. </p><p>“Tell me,â€ she said to them all. “What is the mission of the Kindom?â€</p><p>They answered in chorus: “Peace, under the Kindom. Unity, in the Treble.â€ </p><p>“Good.â€ She looked each one over carefully, observed their proudly clasped staves. Though “stavesâ€ was a stretch. The long poles in their hands were made from a heavy-duty foam composite. Strong enough to bruise, even to break skin—but not bones. The schools, after all, were responsible for a precious commodity. This cheapened the drama of the upcoming performance, but she was determined to enjoy herself anyway. </p><p>“And what are the three pillars of the Kindom?â€ she asked. </p><p>“Righteousness! Cleverness! Brutality!â€</p><p>She hummed approval. Righteousness for the Clerics. Cleverness for the Secretaries. Brutality for the Cloaksaan. The three Hands. In other parts of the school, students were studying the righteous Godtexts of their history and faith, or they were perfecting the clever art of economy and law. But these students, these little fourth years, were here to be brutal. </p><p>She gave the kinschool master a curt nod. His eyes lit up and he turned to the students like a conductor to his orchestra. With theatrical aplomb, he clapped once. </p><p>It seemed impossible that the six students could look any smarter, but they managed it, brandishing their staves with stolid expressions. She searched for cracks in the facades, for shadows and tremors. She saw several. They were so young, and it was to be expected in front of someone like her. Only one of them was a perfect statue. Her eyes flicked over this one for a moment longer than the others. </p><p>The master barked, “One!â€ </p><p>Immediately, five of the children turned on the sixth, staves sweeping into offense like dancers taking position, and then—oh, what a dance it was! The first blow was like a <em>clap</em> against One’s shoulder; the second a heavy <em>thwack </em>on its thigh. It fought back hard—it had to, swinging its staff in furious arcs and trying like hell not to be pushed too far off balance. She watched its face, how the sweat broke out, how the eyes narrowed, and its upper teeth came down on its lip to keep from crying out when one of the children struck it again, hard, on the hip. That sound was particularly good, a <em>crack</em> that made it stumble and lose position. The five children gave no quarter, and then there was a fifth blow, and a sixth, and—</p><p>“Done!â€ boomed the master. </p><p>Instantly, all six children dropped back into line, staves at rest beside them. The first child was breathing heavily. Someone had got it in the mouth, and there was blood, but it didn’t cry. </p><p>The master waited a few seconds, pure showmanship, and said, “Two!â€ </p><p>The dance began again, five students turning against the other. This was an old game, with simple rules. Esek had played it many times herself, when she was Three. The attack went on until either offense or defense landed six blows. It was impressive if the attacked child scored a hit at all, and yet as she watched the progressing bouts, the second and fourth students both made their marks before losing the round. The children were merciless with each other, crowding their victim in, jabbing and kicking and swinging without reprieve. Her lip curled back in raw delight. These students were as vicious as desert foxes. </p><p>But by the time the fifth student lost its round, they were getting sloppy. They were bruised, bleeding, tired. Only the sixth remained to defend itself, and everything would be slower and less controlled now. No more soldierly discipline, no more pristine choreography. Just tired children brawling. Yet she was no less interested, because the sixth student was the one with no fissures in its mask of calm. Even more interestingly, this one had been the least aggressive in the preceding fights. It joined in, yes, but she wasn’t sure it ever landed a body blow. It was not timid so much as… restrained. Like a leashed dog. </p><p>When the master said, “Six,â€ something changed in the room. </p><p>She couldn’t miss the strange note in the master’s voice—of pleasure and expectation. The children, despite their obvious fatigue, snapped to attention like rabbits scenting a predator. They didn’t rush at Six as they had rushed at each other. No, suddenly, they moved into a half-circle formation, approaching this last target with an unmistakable caution. Their gazes sharpened and they gripped their staves tighter than before, as if expecting to be disarmed. The sweat and blood stood out on their faces, and one of them quickly wiped a streak away, as if this would be its only chance to clear its eyes. </p><p>And Six? The one who commanded this sudden tension, this careful advance? It stood a moment, taking them all in at once, stare like a razor’s edge. And then, it flew. </p><p>She could think of no other word for it. It was like a whirling storm, and its stave was a lightning strike. No defensive stance for this one—it went after the nearest student with a brutal spinning kick that knocked it on its ass, then it whipped its body to the left and cracked its stave against a different student’s shoulder, and finished with a jab to yet another’s carelessly exposed shin. All of this happened before the five attackers even had their wits about them, and for a moment she thought they would throw their weapons down, cower and retreat before this superior fighter. </p><p>Instead, they charged. </p><p>It was like watching a wave that had gone out to sea suddenly surge upon the shore. They didn’t fight as individuals, but as one corralling force, spreading out and pressing in. They drove Six back and back and back—against the wall. For the first time, they struck it, hard, in the ribs, and a moment later they got it again, across the jaw. The sound sent a thrill down her spine, made her fingers clench in hungry eagerness for a stave of her own. She watched the sixth fighter’s jaw flush with blood and the promise of bruising, but it didn’t falter. It swept its staff in an arc, creating an opening. It struck one of them in the chest, then another in the side, and a third in the thigh—six blows altogether. The students staggered, their offense broken, their wave disintegrating on the sixth student’s immovable shore.</p><p>She glanced at their master, waiting for him to announce the conclusion of the match, and its decisive victor. To her great interest, he did no such thing, nor did the children seem to expect he would. They recovered, and charged. </p><p>Was the sixth fighter surprised? Did it feel the sting of its master’s betrayal? Not that she could tell. That face was a stony glower of intent, and those eyes were smart and ruthless. </p><p>The other fights had been quick, dirty, over within a couple of minutes. This last fight went on and on, and each second made her pulse race. The exhaustion she’d seen in the students before gave way to an almost frenzied energy. How else could they hold their ground against Six? They parried and dodged and swung in increasingly desperate bursts, but through it all the sixth kept <em>hitting</em> them. Gods! It was relentless. Even when the other students started to catch up (strikes to the hip, to the wrist, to the thigh) it <em>kept</em> <em>going</em>. The room was full of ragged gasping, but when she listened for Six’s breath, it was controlled. Loud, but steady, and its eyes never lost their militant focus.</p><p>In the feverish minutes of the fight, it landed eighteen strikes (she counted; she couldn’t help counting) before finally one of the others got in a sixth blow, a lucky cuff across its already bruised mouth. </p><p>The master called, “Done!â€ </p><p>The children practically dropped where they stood, their stave arms falling limply at their sides, their relief as palpable as the sweat in the air. They got obediently back in line, and as they did, she noticed that one of them met Six’s eye. A tiny grin passed between them, conspiratorial, childlike, before they were stoic again. </p><p>She could see the master’s satisfied smile. She had of course not known <em>why</em> he asked her to come to Principes. A new statue in her honor, perhaps? Or a business opportunity that would benefit her family’s sevite industry? Maybe one of the eighth years, close to graduating, had particular promise? No, in the end, it was none of that. He’d brought her here for a fourth year. He’d brought her here so he could show off his shining star. She herself left school years earlier than any student in Principes’s history, a mere fifteen when she became a novitiate. Clearly the master wanted to break her record. To have this student noticed by her, recruited by her as an eleven-year-old—what a feather that would be…in the master’s cap. </p><p>She looked at him directly, absorbing his smug expression. </p><p>“Did its parents put you up to that?â€ she asked. </p><p>The smugness bled from his face, at the knife sharpness of her words. He grew pale and cleared his throat. “It has no parents.â€ </p><p>Interesting. The Kindom was generally very good about making sure orphans were rehomed. Who had sponsored the child’s admission to a kinschool? Such things weren’t cheap. </p><p>The master said, clearly hoping to absolve himself, “After you, it is the most promising student I have ever seen. Its intelligence, its casting skills, its—â€ </p><p>She chuckled, cutting him off.</p><p>“Many students are impressive in the beginning. In my fourth year, I wasn’t the star. And the one who was the star, that year? What happened to it? Why, I don’t even think it graduated. Fourth year is far too early to know anything about a student.â€ </p><p>She said these things as if the sixth student hadn’t filled her with visceral excitement. As if she didn’t see, vast as the Black Ocean itself, what it might become. Then she noticed that the master had said nothing. No acquiescence. No apology either, which surprised her. </p><p>“What aren’t you telling me?â€ she asked. </p><p>He cleared his throat again, and said, very lowly, “Its family name was Alanye.â€ </p><p>Her brows shot up. She glanced back at the child, who was not making eye contact. At this distance, it couldn’t have heard the master’s words. </p><p>“Really?â€ she asked. </p><p>“Yes. That’s why it’s here. So it won’t fall into the hands of radicals. It was sponsored by a secretary, after its father died.â€ </p><p>She continued staring at the child. Watching it fight was exhilarating, but knowing its origins made her giddy. This was delicious. </p><p>“Does it know?â€ </p><p>The master barely shook his head no. She <em>hmm’d</em> a bright sound of pleasure. </p><p>Turning from him, she strode toward the child, her long, open coat flowing behind her like a shadow. She brought her hand out from where it had been resting on the hilt of her bloodletter dagger, a weapon only ever found on cloaksaan. She crooked a finger. </p><p>“Come here, little fish. Let me have a look at you.â€ </p><p>The fourth year moved forward until it was a foot away, gazing up, up, into her face. She looked it over more carefully than before. Aside from their own natural appearance, students weren’t allowed any distinguishing characteristics, and sometimes it was hard to tell them apart. She took in the details, looked for signs of the child’s famous ancestor, Lucos Alanye: a man who started with nothing, acquired a mining fleet, and blew up a moon to stop anyone else from taking its riches. The sheer pettiness of it! He was the most notorious mass murderer in Treble history. She hadn’t known he <em>had</em> descendants. With a flick of her wrist, she cast an image of Alanye to her ocular screen, comparing the ancestor to the descendant. Inconclusive. </p><p>The child remained utterly calm. Her own novitiates weren’t always so calm. </p><p>“So, you are Six. That is a very holy designation, you know.â€ It said nothing, and she asked it cheerfully, “Tell me: who is the Sixth God?â€ </p><p>This was an old riddle from the Godtexts, one with no answer. A person from Ma’kess would claim the god Makala. A person from Quietus would say Capamame. Katishsaan favored Kata, and so on, each planet giving primacy to its own god. Asking the question was just a way to figure out where a person’s loyalty or origins lay. This student looked Katish to her, but maybe it would claim a different loyalty? </p><p>Then it said, “There is no Sixth God, Sa. Only the Godfire.â€ </p><p>She tilted her head curiously. So, it claimed no loyalty, no planet of origin. Only a devotion to the Kindom, for whom the Godfire held primacy. How… strategic. </p><p>She ignored its answer, instead asking, “Do you know who I am?â€ </p><p>The silence in the room seemed to deepen, as if some great invisible creature had sucked in its breath. </p><p>“Yes, Burning One. You are Esek Nightfoot.â€ </p><p>She saw the other children from the corner of her eye, looking tense and excited.</p><p>She nodded. “Yes,â€ and bent closer to it. “I come from a very important family,â€ she said, as if it didn’t know. “That’s a big responsibility. Perhaps you know what it’s like?â€ </p><p>For the first time, it showed emotion—a slight widening of the eyes. Almost instantly, its expression resolved back into blankness. </p><p>“The master says you don’t know who you are… Is that true, little fish?â€ </p><p>“We don’t have names, Sa.â€</p><p>She grinned. “You are very disciplined. From all accounts, so was Lucos Alanye.â€ </p><p>Its throat moved, a tiny swallow. It knew <em>exactly</em> what family it came from. The arrogant kinschool master was a fool. </p><p>“Do you know,â€ Esek said, “all the First Families of the Treble are required to give of their children to the Kindom? One from each generation must become a Hand. My matriarch selected me from my generation. It seems fate has selected you from yours.â€ </p><p>There was a fierceness in its eyes that said it liked this idea very much—though, of course, the Alanyes were not a First Family. Lucos himself was nothing more than an upstart and opportunist, a resource-raping traitor, a genocider. Esek half-admired him. </p><p>“Your family did mine a great service.â€ </p><p>It looked wary now, a little confused. She nodded. “Yes, my family controls the sevite factories. And do you know who are the laborers that keep our factories going?â€ </p><p>This time it ventured an answer, so quiet its voice barely registered, “The Jeveni, Sa.â€ </p><p>“Yes! The Jeveni.â€ Esek smiled, as if the Jeveni were kings and not refugees. “And if Lucos Alanye had never destroyed their moon world, the Jeveni would not need my family to employ them, would they? And then, who would run the factories? So you see it is all very well, coming from the bloodline of a butcher. All our evils give something back.â€ </p><p>The student looked at her with that same wariness. She changed the subject. </p><p>“What do you think of your performance today?â€ </p><p>Its face hardened. “The fight had no honor, Sa.â€</p><p>Esek’s brows lifted. They were conversing in Ma’kessi, the language of the planet Ma’kess. But just then, the student had used a Teron word for “honor.â€ One that more accurately translated to “bragging rights.â€ Perhaps the student was from the planet Teros? Or perhaps it had a precise attitude toward language; always the best word for the best circumstance. </p><p>“You struck your attackers eighteen times. Is there no honor in that?â€ </p><p>“I lost. Honor<em> </em>is for winning.â€ </p><p>“But the master cheated you.â€ </p><p>The invisible creature in the room drew in its breath again. Behind her she could <em>feel</em> the master’s quickening pulse. Esek’s smile brightened and for the first time, Six looked apprehensive. Its compatriots were glancing uneasily at each other, discipline fractured. </p><p>She said, “Beyond these walls, out in the world, people don’t have to tell you if you’ve won. You know it for yourself, and you make other people know it. If I were you, and the master tried to cheat me out of my win, I’d kill him for it.â€ </p><p>The tension ratcheted so high that she could taste it, thick and cloying. Six’s eyes widened. Before anything could get out of hand, Esek laughed. </p><p>“Of course, if <em>you</em> tried to kill the Master, he would decapitate you before you’d even lifted your little stave off the ground, wouldn’t he?â€ </p><p>It was like lacerating a boil. The hot tightness under the skin released, and if there was a foul smell left over, well… that was worth it.</p><p>“Tell me, Six,â€ she carried on, “what do you want most of all?â€</p><p>It answered immediately, confidence resurging with the return to script, “To go unnoticed, Sa.â€ </p><p>She’d thought so. These were the words of the Cloaksaan. The master wouldn’t be parading its best student under her nose like a bitch in heat if the bitch didn’t want to be a cloaksaan—those deadly officers of the Kindom’s Brutal Hand, those military masterminds and shadow-like assassins, who made peace possible in the Treble through their ruthlessness. Esek had only ever taken cloaksaan novitiates. It was an idiosyncrasy of hers. Most clerics trained clerics and most secretaries trained secretaries, but Cleric Esek trained cloaksaan. </p><p>“You held back in the first five fights,â€ she remarked. </p><p>The child offered no excuses. Did she imagine defiance in its eyes?</p><p>“That’s all right. That was smart. You conserved your strength for the fight that mattered. Your teachers might tell you it was cowardly, but cloaksaan don’t have to be brave. They have to be smart. They have to win. Right?â€ </p><p>Six nodded. </p><p>“Would you like to be my novitiate someday, little fish?â€ asked Esek gently. </p><p>It showed no overt excitement. But its voice was vehement when it said, “Yes, Burning One.â€ </p><p>She considered it for long moments, looking over its body, its muscles and form, like it was a racehorse she might like to sponsor. It knew what she would see, and she felt its hope. Her smile spread like taffy, and she said simply, “No.â€ </p><p>She might as well have struck it. Its shock broke over her like rain. Seeing that it could feel was important; unlike some Hands, she didn’t relish an emotionless novitiate. </p><p>“I won’t take you. More than that, I’m going to tell the other Hands not to take you.â€</p><p>The child’s stunned expression nearly made her laugh, but she chose for once to be serious, watching it for the next move. Its mouth opened and closed. Clearly it wanted to speak but knew it had no right. She gave it a little nod of permission, eager to hear what it would say. It glanced toward its master, then spoke in a voice so soft, no one would hear. </p><p>“Burning One… I am not my ancestor. I am—loyal. I am Kindom in my heart.â€ </p><p>She hummed and nodded. “Yes, I can see that. But haven’t we established? My family owes your ancestor a debt, for the Jeveni, and I don’t care if you’re like him or not. The fact is, I find you very impressive. Just as your master does, and your schoolkin do. I imagine everyone finds you impressive, little fish. But that’s of no use to me. I require something different.â€ </p><p>Esek watched with interest as it struggled to maintain its composure. She wondered if it would cry, or lose its temper, or drop into traumatized blankness. When none of these things happened, but it only stood there with its throat bobbing, she dropped a lifeline.</p><p>“When you are ready, you must come directly to me.â€ </p><p>Its throat stilled. She’d startled it again. </p><p>“You must come and tell me that you want to be my novitiate. Don’t go to my people, or the other Hands. Don’t announce yourself. Come to me unawares, without invitation.â€ </p><p>It looked at her in despairing confusion. “Burning One, you’re surrounded by novitiates. If I come to you without permission, your people will kill me.â€</p><p>She nodded. “That’s right. They’ll never let you through without my leave. What’s worse, I probably won’t even remember you exist. Don’t be ashamed. I never remember any of the little fish I visit in the schools. Why should I, with so many things to occupy me? No, in a couple of days, you’ll slip my mind. And if, in a few years, some strange young person newly gendered and named tries to come before me and ask to be my novitiate, well! Even if you get through my people, I may kill you myself.â€ A long pause stretched between them, before she added, “Unless…â€</p><p>It was exhilarating, to whip the child from one end to the other with the power of a single word. Its eyes lit up. It didn’t even breathe, waiting for her to name her condition. She leaned closer still, until their faces were only inches apart, and she whispered in a voice only it could hear, “You must do something <em>extraordinary</em>.â€ She breathed the word into its soul, and it flowed there hot and powerful as the Godfire. “You must do something I have never seen before. Something memorable, and shocking, and <em>brutal</em>. Something that will make me pause before I kill you. I have no idea what it is. I have no idea what I’ll <em>want</em> when that day comes. But if you do it, then I will make you my novitiate. Your ancestry won’t matter. Your past won’t matter. This moment won’t matter. You will have everything you deserve: all the honor a life can bring. And you will earn it at my side.â€ </p><p>The child stared at her, caught in the terrible power of the silence she let hang between them. And then, like a fishersaan cutting a line, she drew back. Her voice was a normal volume again, and she shrugged. </p><p>“It’s not a great offer, I’ll grant you. Probably you’ll die. If you choose not to come to me, I won’t hold it against you. I won’t remember you, after all. There are other, excellent careers in the Kindom. You don’t have to be a Hand to do good work. Someone as talented as you could be a marshal or guardsaan. The master says you’re good at casting. You could be an archivist! But whatever you decide, I wish you luck, little fish.â€ She pinned it with her mocking stare. “Now swim away.â€ </p><p>It blinked, released from the spell. After a moment of wretched bewilderment, it dropped back into place beside its schoolkin, who looked most shocked of all; one was crying silently. She whirled around, each click of her boots on the stone floor like a gunshot. The gold threads in her coat caught the light until she shimmered like a flame. </p><p>She locked eyes with the master, whose friendliness had evaporated in these tense minutes. He was now marshaling forty years of training into a blank expression, but Esek sensed the cold terror in him. No one in his life had seen him this frightened before, and the shame of it, of all these little fourth years witnessing it, would torture him. </p><p>Esek moved as if she would go right past him, but paused at the last moment. They were parallel, arms brushing, and she heard his miniscule gasp. Perhaps he expected the plunge of the bloodletter? As a Hand of the Kindom, she had every right to kill him if she judged his actions unrighteous. Still, knowing he was afraid of it happening was its own reward—and she didn’t feel like dealing with the aftermath today. Instead, she studied the master’s face. He was staring straight forward, as well-trained as the students, and just as vulnerable. </p><p>“Graduate it to the eighth years.â€ </p><p>The master’s temple ticked. “You’ve already determined that no Hand will make it their novitiate. It has no future here.â€ </p><p>Esek chuckled, amazed at the brazenness of this master. “Let it decide on its own. Personally, I think this one will find its way. Or has your confidence in it proved so fickle?â€ The master was silent, and this time Esek’s voice was a threatening purr, “What about your confidence in <em>me</em>, Master? I am your window to the glory and wisdom of the Godfire. Don’t you believe in the power of the Clerisy?â€ She drew out the final word, clicking the ‘c’ with malevolent humor. </p><p>The master nodded shortly. “Of course, Sa. I will do as you say.â€ </p><p>Esek smiled at him. She patted his shoulder, enjoying the flinch he couldn’t control. She was preparing to murmur some new ridicule into his ear, when a voice interrupted them.</p><p>“Burning One.â€ </p><p>She looked toward the marble staircase, where her novitiates still stood. They had been there all this time, invisible until she had need. </p><p>“Yes?â€ Esek asked. “What is it?â€ </p><p>“You have a message from Alisiana Nightfoot. The matriarch requests your presence at Verdant.â€ </p><p>Esek clucked her tongue. “No rest for a Nightfoot.â€ She swept past the master without farewells. She heard his barely discernable exhale of relief, and then the trio of novitiates were behind her, following her up the stairs. They retraced their steps to the school gates and the tarmac, where her docked warcrow awaited them. As they went, she called over her shoulder. “Send word to the Cloaksaan that they should visit the master. I think his tenure has run its course.â€ </p><hr></hr><p><small>Excerpt from <em>These Burning Stars</em> by Bethany Jacobs reprinted by permission of Orbit.</small></p><p><em>These Burning Stars</em> by Bethany Jacobs will be released October 17; you can <span><a data-amazonasin=\"0316463329\" data-amazontag=\"kinjagizmodolink-20\" data-ga=\"[]\" data-vtas-click=\"self:InlineUrl:inline-url-postbody\" href=\"https://www.amazon.com/These-Burning-Stars-Kindom-Trilogy/dp/0316463329?asc_campaign=kinjagizmodolink-20&amp;asc_refurl=https://gizmodo.com/read-queer-space-opera-excerpt-these-burning-stars-1850923378&amp;asc_source=&amp;tag=kinjagizmodolink-20\" rel=\"sponsored noopener noreferrer nofollow noskim\" target=\"_blank\">order a copy here</a></span>.</p><hr></hr><p><em>Want more io9 news? Check out when to expect the latest </em><span><a data-ga=\"[[&quot;Embedded Url&quot;,&quot;Internal link&quot;,&quot;https://gizmodo.com/marvel-release-dates-when-to-see-upcoming-mcu-movies-1848196856&quot;,{&quot;metric25&quot;:1}]]\" href=\"https://gizmodo.com/marvel-release-dates-when-to-see-upcoming-mcu-movies-1848196856\"><em>Marvel</em></a></span><em>, </em><span><a data-ga=\"[[&quot;Embedded Url&quot;,&quot;Internal link&quot;,&quot;https://gizmodo.com/star-wars-movies-tv-shows-release-dates-disney-1848494806&quot;,{&quot;metric25&quot;:1}]]\" href=\"https://gizmodo.com/star-wars-movies-tv-shows-release-dates-disney-1848494806\">Star Wars</a></span>, and <span><a data-ga=\"[[&quot;Embedded Url&quot;,&quot;Internal link&quot;,&quot;https://gizmodo.com/star-trek-release-dates-where-to-stream-picard-discover-1848839650&quot;,{&quot;metric25&quot;:1}]]\" href=\"https://gizmodo.com/star-trek-release-dates-where-to-stream-picard-discover-1848839650\">Star Trek</a></span><em> releases, what’s next for the </em><span><a data-ga=\"[[&quot;Embedded Url&quot;,&quot;Internal link&quot;,&quot;https://gizmodo.com/warner-bros-dc-release-dates-hbo-max-cast-details-1848354161&quot;,{&quot;metric25&quot;:1}]]\" href=\"https://gizmodo.com/warner-bros-dc-release-dates-hbo-max-cast-details-1848354161\"><em>DC Universe on film and TV</em></a></span><em>, and everything you need to know about the future of </em><span><a data-ga=\"[[&quot;Embedded Url&quot;,&quot;Internal link&quot;,&quot;https://gizmodo.com/doctor-who-release-dates-streaming-ncuti-gatwa-rtd-1849745140&quot;,{&quot;metric25&quot;:1}]]\" href=\"https://gizmodo.com/doctor-who-release-dates-streaming-ncuti-gatwa-rtd-1849745140\">Doctor Who</a></span><em>.</em></p></div>', 'Bethany Jacobs’ debut novel, These Burning Stars, hits shelves tomorrow—but io9 has the first chapter here for you to read today. Do you like sci-fi tales of revenge, dark secrets from the past that threaten to re-emerge, and thieves plotting schemes on forgo…', 'https://i.kinja-img.com/image/upload/c_fill,f_auto,fl_progressive,g_center,h_675,pg_1,q_80,w_1200/d095ac71af69cfb6f343f35dec69bd63.jpg', '169', NULL, NULL, '73', 'newsapi', NULL, NULL, '2023-11-13', '728', '0', '0', NULL, NULL, NULL),
(586, 'FAA Pilot Records Database', '<ul id=\"article-wrapper\" style=\"list-style: none; padding: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; height: 522px; overflow-y: auto; border: 1px solid; border-radius: var(--zhuluan-primary-border-radius); font-family: &quot;Helvetica Neue&quot;, Helvetica, Arial, &quot;Hiragino Sans GB&quot;, &quot;Hiragino Sans GB W3&quot;, &quot;Microsoft YaHei UI&quot;, &quot;Microsoft YaHei&quot;, &quot;WenQuanYi Micro Hei&quot;, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; background-color: rgb(52, 53, 65);\"><li class=\"article-content\" id=\"EyjmhdSmrj4n33mC\" style=\"list-style: none; padding: 14px; margin: 0px; background: rgb(67, 70, 84); color: rgb(255, 255, 255); font-size: 15px; line-height: 30px;\"><p class=\"line\" data-line=\"0\" style=\"padding: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px;\">The FAA Pilot Records Database (PRD) is a centralized system that stores and maintains pilot records for air carriers, including Part 135 operators. It is designed to provide a comprehensive and standardized source of information about pilots’ qualifications, training, and experience.</p><p class=\"line\" data-line=\"2\" style=\"padding: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px;\">To register and use the PRD as a Part 135 air carrier, you need to follow these steps:</p><ol style=\"padding: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-left: 0px;\"><li style=\"list-style: none; padding: 0px; margin: 0px;\"><p style=\"padding: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px;\">Obtain an FAA-approved PRD account: Contact the FAA’s PRD Program Office to request an account. They will provide you with the necessary forms and instructions to complete the registration process.</p></li><li style=\"list-style: none; padding: 0px; margin: 0px;\"><p style=\"padding: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px;\">Complete the required forms: Fill out the PRD Account Request Form and the PRD User Agreement. These forms will require information about your air carrier, including your company name, address, and contact details.</p></li><li style=\"list-style: none; padding: 0px; margin: 0px;\"><p style=\"padding: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px;\">Submit the forms: Once you have completed the forms, submit them to the FAA’s PRD Program Office. You can do this either electronically or by mail, as specified in the instructions provided.</p></li><li style=\"list-style: none; padding: 0px; margin: 0px;\"><p style=\"padding: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px;\">Await account approval: The FAA will review your application and verify the information provided. Once your account is approved, you will receive login credentials and instructions on how to access the PRD.</p></li><li style=\"list-style: none; padding: 0px; margin: 0px;\"><p style=\"padding: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px;\">Access and use the PRD: Once you have received your login credentials, you can access the PRD system and begin using it to search for and retrieve pilot records. The PRD offers various search options, allowing you to find specific pilots based on their name, certificate number, or other identifying information.</p></li></ol><p class=\"line\" data-line=\"14\" style=\"padding: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px;\">It’s important to note that there may be fees associated with using the PRD, and you should consult the FAA’s PRD Program Office for specific details regarding costs and payment methods.</p><p class=\"line\" data-line=\"16\" style=\"padding: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px;\">Additionally, it’s recommended to familiarize yourself with the FAA’s guidance and regulations related to the use of the PRD, as there may be specific requirements and responsibilities for Part 135 air carriers accessing pilot records through this system.</p></li></ul>                                                                  ', '<ul id=\"article-wrapper\" style=\"list-style: none; padding: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0p...', '', '172', '', NULL, NULL, 'ownarticle', NULL, NULL, '2023-11-14', '207', '0', '0', NULL, NULL, NULL);
INSERT INTO `tbl_article` (`id`, `arttitle`, `artcontent`, `artshortcontent`, `artimg`, `artwebdomain`, `artcat`, `artcatname`, `artcampid`, `arttype`, `artvideoid`, `artytlang`, `artdate`, `uid`, `spintextflag`, `langtransflag`, `artinbuildnewskeyword`, `artnewstype`, `artnewskeyword`) VALUES
(607, 'You Dont Need to Buy a Desktop to Get the Most Power in a Mac Anymore', '<section>\n<section data-ga-module=\"content-body\">\n\n<img alt=\"You Don\'t Need to Buy a Desktop to Get the Most Power in a Mac Anymore\" height=\"702\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1280px) 100vw, 1280px\" src=\"https://lifehacker.com/imagery/articles/01HF2GZ5YZ6EBCEHG4P2FQ4G5F/hero-image.fill.size_1248x702.v1699835303.jpg\" srcset=\"https://lifehacker.com/imagery/articles/01HF2GZ5YZ6EBCEHG4P2FQ4G5F/hero-image.fill.size_400x225.v1699835303.jpg 400w, https://lifehacker.com/imagery/articles/01HF2GZ5YZ6EBCEHG4P2FQ4G5F/hero-image.fill.size_800x450.v1699835303.jpg 800w, https://lifehacker.com/imagery/articles/01HF2GZ5YZ6EBCEHG4P2FQ4G5F/hero-image.fill.size_1248x702.v1699835303.jpg 1600w\" width=\"1248\"></img>\n<p><span>Credit: Apple/YouTube</span>\n</p>\n<article data-autopogo=\"\">\n<hr></hr>\n<p>These days, we have the luxury of choice when it comes to computers, especially Macs: If all you do is light work, internet browsing, and content consumption, you don’t have to spend much at all for a very capable Mac. On the flip side, if your job or hobbies are demanding, there’s a Mac out there that can fill your processing power needs, with the only limit being your budget.<br></br></p><h2>Desktops have long been the option for power seekers</h2><p>For those looking for pure power, the traditional advice has been to go for a desktop machine. Laptops can be work horses, and Apple has proven that with its M-series MacBook Pros. But only the Mac Studio and Mac Pro have the M2 <em>Ultra</em>, a combination of two M2 Max chips, which potentially doubles the performance you’d expect from an M2 Max machine. </p><p>It makes sense why desktops have long been the way to go for the ultimate computing experience: Desktops, by definition, live on your desk (or at least in one stationary position), perpetually plugged into power. As such, you can outfit a desktop with things that wouldn’t be practical for a laptop, such as larger cooling fans, larger CPUs and GPUs, and additional memory. </p><p>Laptops, on the other hand, need to be portable. That means they’re built inside a smaller casing, which limits the size of the hardware considerably. Plus, you need to think about both battery size and battery life: A battery that’s too small won’t last long, and even a capable battery will lose energy quickly if the hardware is too demanding. It’s a delicate balance, and one that has moved hardcore users towards desktops. </p><h2>You can get the most Apple power in a MacBook now</h2><p>Apple’s latest MacBook Pro might just change that for Apple users, however. As part of its “Scary Fastâ€ event on Monday, <a href=\"/everything-apple-announced-during-its-scary-fast-mac-ev-1850976502\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"open in a new window\">the company revealed three new M-series chips for the MacBook Pro</a>: M3, M3 Pro, and M3 Max. Apple made great claims about the performance of M3, particularly the larger M3 Pro and M3 Max chips, but mostly in comparison to the M1 line. <a href=\"https://www.apple.com/newsroom/2023/10/apple-unveils-m3-m3-pro-and-m3-max-the-most-advanced-chips-for-a-personal-computer/\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"(opens in a new window)\">Apple says</a> the M3 Max’s GPU is 50% faster than M1 Max‘s, while the CPU is <em>80%</em> faster. That’s a big improvement in just two years.</p><p>While these laptops seem to be the most powerful Apple has ever made, professionals still might be swayed to pick up an M2 Ultra Mac Studio or Mac Pro. After all, a desktop is as good as it gets in Mac world, right? So if you need <em>the</em> best of the best, you’d think you’d need to forgo the laptops entirely. Not so much. </p><p><a href=\"https://www.macrumors.com/2023/11/01/m3-max-chip-benchmark-results/\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"(opens in a new window)\">As reported by MacRumors</a>, the first benchmarks for the 16-inch MacBook Pro with M3 Max have surfaced on Geekbench. What the results show are astonishing: The <a href=\"https://browser.geekbench.com/v6/cpu/3349629\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"(opens in a new window)\">highest single-core score recorded was 3151</a>, while the <a href=\"https://browser.geekbench.com/v6/cpu/3350282\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"(opens in a new window)\">highest multi-core score was 21,084</a>. Geekbench lists the average single-core score on M2 Ultra on Mac Pro as 2760, and on Mac Studio as either 2767 or 2803, depending on the model. Multi-core scores on the Mac Pro average 21,182, and 21,316 on the Mac Studio.</p><p>The results show that the M3 Max is <em>faster </em>than the M2 Ultra in single-core performance, and just about as fast as some M2 Ultra chips in multi-core. The Mac Studio with M2 Ultra ekes out the M3 Max by a couple hundred points, which isn’t <em>nothing</em>, but it doesn’t feel like much of an advantage when you factor in other considerations. </p><p>For one, a MacBook Pro is <em>portable</em>. You can pick up the laptop and take that power wherever you like (for up to 22 hours if Apple is to be believed), while the desktop Mac needs to, well, sit on your desktop. Plus, there’s the question of price: The M3 Max MacBook Pro starts at $3,499, while the M2 Ultra Mac Studio starts at $3,999. You save $500, plus your computer comes with a built-in screen, keyboard, and trackpad. The Studio requires you to have those extras already, or to spend the money to get them. (If you want even more power, there’s an even beefier M3 Max configuration that adds two cores to the CPU and 10 cores to the GPU. That brings the MacBook Pro up to the same $3,999 as the Studio, but, again, you save in other ways.) The Mac Pro starts at a whopping $6,999, but for it, you get a computer tower with expandable slots, so it’s a bit of a different story.</p><p>Unless you need <em>that</em> level of customization and versatility, it seems like Apple has done something special with M3 Max. $3,499 is still a very expensive computer, but when you consider the combination of huge power and convenience, it’s pretty cool to see desktop-class performance in such a portable form factor. </p>\n</article>\n\n</section>\n\n</section>', 'These days, we have the luxury of choice when it comes to computers, especially Macs: If all you do is light work, internet browsing, and content consumption, you don’t have to spend much at all for a very capable Mac. On the flip side, if your job or hobbies…', 'https://i.kinja-img.com/image/upload/c_fill,h_675,pg_1,q_80,w_1200/de18c6ec772d70d96590637d2cd911df.jpg', '175', NULL, NULL, '', 'newsapi', NULL, NULL, '2023-11-14', '248', '0', '0', NULL, NULL, NULL),
(608, 'This Kodak Film and Slide Scanner Is $170 Right Now', '<article data-autopogo=\"\">\n<hr></hr>\n<p>The Kodak Slide N Scan makes preserving old photos incredibly easy, and it’s <a href=\"https://shop.lifehacker.com/sales/kodak-slide-n-scan-film-and-slide-scanner?utm_source=lifehacker.com&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=kodak-slide-n-scan-film-and-slide-scanner&amp;utm_term=scsf-580682&amp;utm_content=a0xRn0000001HIBIA2&amp;scsonar=1\" target=\"_blank\">on sale right now for $169.97</a> with coupon code <strong>KODAK</strong>. It lets you view and edit both color and black and white negatives (135, 110, and 126 mm film sizes), as well as 35 and 50mm slides with the cardboard frames, and then convert them into digital formats.</p><p>It has a 5-inch LCD display, as well as onboard controls to do basic photo editing like adjusting colors or rotating your pictures. And if the 5-inch screen isn’t enough, the Slide N Scan can connect to a computer or TV screen so you can see your images at their highest resolution. After editing, a push of a button converts each photo into a fully corrected digital file to be stored on an SD card.</p><p>While many similar units make you load each image one at a time, this scanner’s nifty quick-feeding tray allows for a steady feed of your <a href=\"https://shop.lifehacker.com/sales/kodak-slide-n-scan-film-and-slide-scanner?utm_source=lifehacker.com&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=kodak-slide-n-scan-film-and-slide-scanner&amp;utm_term=scsf-580682&amp;utm_content=a0xRn0000001HIBIA2&amp;scsonar=1\" target=\"_blank\">negatives and slides so you can convert them</a> as fast as possible.</p><p>The Slide N Scan has a 4.4 out of 5-star rating from more than 7,700 Amazon reviews, and it comes with all the accessories you’ll need, including USB and HDMI cables and a full array of film and slide adapters.</p><p>The Kodak Slide N Scan Film and Slide Scanner is <a href=\"https://shop.lifehacker.com/sales/kodak-slide-n-scan-film-and-slide-scanner?utm_source=lifehacker.com&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=kodak-slide-n-scan-film-and-slide-scanner&amp;utm_term=scsf-580682&amp;utm_content=a0xRn0000001HIBIA2&amp;scsonar=1\" target=\"\">on sale for $169.97 right now</a> (reg. $224) with coupon code <strong>KODAK</strong>, though prices can change at any time.</p>\n\n</article>', 'The Kodak Slide N Scan makes preserving old photos incredibly easy, and it’s on sale right now for $169.97 with coupon code KODAK. It lets you view and edit both color and black and white negatives (135, 110, and 126 mm film sizes), as well as 35 and 50mm sli…', 'https://i.kinja-img.com/image/upload/c_fill,f_auto,fl_progressive,g_center,h_675,pg_1,q_80,w_1200/e491d8b3e3f3272688a62bc89a5a86f1.png', '175', NULL, NULL, '', 'newsapi', NULL, NULL, '2023-11-14', '248', '0', '0', NULL, NULL, NULL),
(609, 'Use These New Google Tools to Find Holiday Discounts', '<article data-autopogo=\"\">\n<hr></hr>\n<p>Google gets a lot of traffic around the holidays, and for good reason: We use the search engine to find deals across hundreds of stores and brands, a much more efficient strategy than individually going store to store. Now, when you search for things like “shop deals,â€ or “shop sneaker deals,â€ Google will return a brand new search experience based on products, images, and of course, discounts.</p><h2>Price tracking based on browsing history</h2><p>The new deals page will show promotions and discounts on top holiday categories like electronics, apparel, toys, and beauty products. Google will include deals from popular big-box stores, as well as smaller direct-to-consumer sites and local stores. </p><p>This part of the experience is available for everyone, but if you’re using Chrome, you’ll see many more price-tracking features. First, Chrome will show you recently viewed products when opening a new tab in your “Resume browsingâ€ card. It’ll also let you know if an active promotion is available on any of those products.</p><p>Google is also integrating a new price insights tool into Chrome’s side panel. If you click the Shopping Insights button on a product, Google will show you the typical pricing, as well as the price for the last 30 days. You’ll find this feature on the search page. Chrome users will also see a Shopping insights label in the address bar when the data is available.</p><h2>Push notifications for price changes</h2><p>Lastly, Google is rolling out push notifications for price tracking. There’s two ways to set this up. When using Chrome on mobile, tap the bell icon next to a product to get email and push notifications about a product’s price drop. If you’re using Chrome on a computer, you can bookmark products in a new Shopping list folder to track prices, as well as to get email updates about price drops.</p><p>[<a href=\"https://blog.google/products/shopping/google-shopping-best-holiday-deals-2023/\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"(opens in a new window)\">Google</a>]</p>\n</article>', 'Google gets a lot of traffic around the holidays, and for good reason: We use the search engine to find deals across hundreds of stores and brands, a much more efficient strategy than individually going store to store. Now, when you search for things like “sh…', 'https://i.kinja-img.com/image/upload/c_fill,h_675,pg_1,q_80,w_1200/ce46ecfe46b27a698adc5f744ce582ce.png', '175', NULL, NULL, '', 'newsapi', NULL, NULL, '2023-11-14', '248', '0', '0', NULL, NULL, NULL),
(610, 'Use This Extension to Block Sponsored Ads on YouTube', '<section>\n<section data-ga-module=\"content-body\">\n\n<img alt=\"Use This Extension to Block Sponsored Ads on YouTube\" height=\"702\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1280px) 100vw, 1280px\" src=\"https://lifehacker.com/imagery/articles/01HF2HBR83YC7RXBFRMH8KBVH1/hero-image.fill.size_1248x702.v1699834085.jpg\" srcset=\"https://lifehacker.com/imagery/articles/01HF2HBR83YC7RXBFRMH8KBVH1/hero-image.fill.size_400x225.v1699834085.jpg 400w, https://lifehacker.com/imagery/articles/01HF2HBR83YC7RXBFRMH8KBVH1/hero-image.fill.size_800x450.v1699834085.jpg 800w, https://lifehacker.com/imagery/articles/01HF2HBR83YC7RXBFRMH8KBVH1/hero-image.fill.size_1248x702.v1699834085.jpg 1600w\" width=\"1248\"></img>\n<p><span>Credit: Khamosh Pathak</span>\n</p>\n<article data-autopogo=\"\">\n<hr></hr>\n<p>There are many ways to <a href=\"/how-to-watch-ad-free-youtube-videos-on-android-even-wi-1848649514\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"open in a new window\">watch YouTube ad-free</a> (I highly recommend YouTube Premium). But even if you shell out $13.99 per month to remove autoplay ads on YouTube, you still can’t get rid of <em>sponsorship</em> ads. No matter how you watch YouTube, a popular creator may still place an ad read in the middle of a video with no automatic way to skip it. <br></br></p><p>Nothing against sponsorship ads, of course: They’re at least transparent, as you know the creator directly worked with the company, instead of an algorithm suggesting something useless. The problem is you can only spend so much time watching the same Squarespace ad done in a slightly different way.</p><p>To solve the problem, you can turn to a free, open-source and crowdsourced extension: <a href=\"https://sponsor.ajay.app/\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"(opens in a new window)\">SponsorBlock for YouTube</a>. Volunteers submit “skip segmentsâ€ to the platform when they find a video with an ad read. So far, these users have submitted over 15 million skip segments, covering a wide range of YouTube channels. I found skip segments even in accounts with around 100,000 subscribers.</p><p>The extension is available in all popular browsers, and even in third-party, ad-free apps like <a href=\"https://github.com/libre-tube/LibreTube\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"(opens in a new window)\">LibreTube</a>. If you use Android TV, SponsorBlock is integrated in <a href=\"https://github.com/yuliskov/SmartTubeNext/\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"(opens in a new window)\">SmartTubeNext</a>, the best way to <a href=\"/how-to-block-youtube-ads-on-your-android-tv-1850468423\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"open in a new window\">block YouTube ads on Android TV</a>. And if you’re really motivated, you can run <a href=\"https://github.com/dmunozv04/iSponsorBlockTV\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"(opens in a new window)\">iSponsorBlockTV</a> on your computer, which can block sponsored ads on YouTube for smart TVs and Apple TV.</p><p>The simplest way, though, is to use the browser extension. Once it’s installed and running, you’ll see a handy green color for the sponsored segment. By default, the video will automatically skip the ad, but you can jump to the end of the ad using the red highlight marker.</p><p>If you dive into the extension’s settings, you can whitelist a channel you want to see sponsorship videos for, and you can disable automatic skipping if you’d like. If you run into a video that doesn’t have the sponsorship segment marked, you can use the Submit feature to submit your own section, helping the community watch fewer sponsored ads.</p>\n</article>\n\n</section>\n\n</section>', 'There are many ways to watch YouTube ad-free (I highly recommend YouTube Premium). But even if you shell out $13.99 per month to remove autoplay ads on YouTube, you still can’t get rid of sponsorship ads. No matter how you watch YouTube, a popular creator may…', 'https://i.kinja-img.com/image/upload/c_fill,f_auto,fl_progressive,g_center,h_675,pg_1,q_80,w_1200/d0d5695105b38a7a32bab928fbf10793.jpg', '175', NULL, NULL, '', 'newsapi', NULL, NULL, '2023-11-14', '248', '0', '0', NULL, NULL, NULL),
(611, 'You Should Make a To-Dont List', '<section>\n<section data-ga-module=\"content-body\">\n\n<img alt=\"You Should Make a \'To-Don\'t List\'\" height=\"702\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1280px) 100vw, 1280px\" src=\"https://lifehacker.com/imagery/articles/01HF2HJ4PAHFB9HMFWSY274RFE/hero-image.fill.size_1248x702.v1699836519.jpg\" srcset=\"https://lifehacker.com/imagery/articles/01HF2HJ4PAHFB9HMFWSY274RFE/hero-image.fill.size_400x225.v1699836519.jpg 400w, https://lifehacker.com/imagery/articles/01HF2HJ4PAHFB9HMFWSY274RFE/hero-image.fill.size_800x450.v1699836519.jpg 800w, https://lifehacker.com/imagery/articles/01HF2HJ4PAHFB9HMFWSY274RFE/hero-image.fill.size_1248x702.v1699836519.jpg 1600w\" width=\"1248\"></img>\n<p><span>Credit: fizkes - Shutterstock</span>\n</p>\n<article data-autopogo=\"\">\n<hr></hr>\n<p>You’ve heard of a to-do list, but what you might really need is a to-<em>don’t</em> list. Instead of focusing on all the tasks you have to get done, it could be beneficial for you to look at everything you don’t need to or even shouldn’t do. It sounds like a waste of time, but it’s actually not: Seeing clearly what shouldn’t be taking up your attention is a great way to prioritize your time and focus on what really matters. There are two kinds of to-don’t lists to employ, so here’s what you need to know.<br></br></p><h2><strong>To-don’t 1: Bad habits</strong></h2><p>The first kind of to-don’t list you should make is one of bad habits you want to avoid. This is all about goal-setting. The habits that hold you back can be obvious to you or you may not realize some of them, but once you get started writing them down, more will come.</p><p>Some suggestions are these:</p><ul><li><p>Don’t sleep more or less than you’re supposed to, meaning you go to bed on time and don’t hit snooze in the morning.</p></li><li><p>Don’t put off answering emails.</p></li><li><p>Don’t skip breaks or lunch.</p></li><li><p>Don’t save all your work until right before it’s due or you need to leave work.</p></li><li><p>Don’t work all day and night without setting boundaries for when you’re off.</p></li></ul><p>As you make your list, you’ll discover the trouble areas you’re facing. Set aside a time, say every Monday morning, to review and update your list, tracking the progress you made on <em>not </em>doing those things last week, removing any that you’ve overcome, and adding new trouble spots that you’ve run into. As simple as it seems, having it all written down gives you a roadmap and something concrete to focus on while you blast through the bad habits.</p><h2><strong>Two-don’t 2: Tasks you don’t need to do</strong></h2><p>A lot of productivity methods focus on what you, specifically, need to contribute to your workplace, team, or various responsibilities, but some of the best ones also leave space for you to <a href=\"/use-the-4d-method-to-keep-up-with-your-inbox-1850878672\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"open in a new window\">delegate tasks to others</a>. Saying “noâ€ to requests or new tasks that you don’t have the capacity for or there’s no reason for you to be the one to do is <a href=\"/ask-yourself-these-questions-before-saying-no-at-work-1850686442\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"open in a new window\">a special talent</a> we should all cultivate a little better. One way to do that is to keep a list of the tasks you aren’t touching.</p><p>Consider making a list that includes things like the following so you can set clear boundaries and stick to them:</p><ul><li><p>Don’t pick up other people’s responsibilities on a group project.</p></li><li><p>Don’t follow up with someone who is refusing to communicate.</p></li><li><p>Don’t waste time on emails unlikely to get a response.</p></li><li><p>Don’t schedule everyone’s work for them.</p></li><li><p>Don’t agree to new elements of a project until existing tasks are handled.</p></li></ul><p>Keeping a real record of the things you are drawing a line in the sand about will help you actually stick to that line. It also helps to have and idea of what you’ll say if and when someone asks you to do something on your to-don’t list. Thanks to the existence of the list, you can simply say, “I appreciate you thinking of me for this, but I don’t have space for that right now in my current schedule. I’ll let you know when I’m done with the things I need to do.â€</p><p>Once you have your lists compiled, refer to them. Keep them somewhere you’ll see them, like next to your computer or in a note on your phone, and let the power of writing down what you’re <em>not </em>going to do guide you as you tackle the actual to-do list. </p>\n</article>\n\n</section>\n\n</section><div data-ga-module=\"content-footer\">\n<section>\n<div>\n<div>\n<div>\n<div>\n<div>\n<div>\n<p><img alt=\"Lindsey Ellefson\" height=\"150\" src=\"https://lifehacker.com/imagery/authors/01HF2FBECG2MQ0VEXDZ84N3QW6/image.fill.size_150x150.v1699834457.png\" width=\"150\"></img>\n</p>\n</div>\n</div>\n<div>\n<p>Lindsey Ellefson</p>\n<p>Features Editor</p>\n<div>\n<p>Lindsey Ellefson is Lifehacker’s Features Editor. She currently covers study and productivity hacks, as well as household and digital decluttering, and oversees the freelancers on the sex and relationships beat. She spent most of her pre-Lifehacker career covering media and politics for outlets like Us Weekly, CNN, The Daily Dot, Mashable, Glamour, and InStyle. In recent years, her freelancing has focused on drug use and the overdose crisis, with pieces appearing in Vanity Fair, WIRED, The New Republic, The Daily Beast, and more. Her story for BuzzFeed News won the 2022 American Journalism Online award for Best Debunking of Fake News.</p><p>In addition to her journalism, Lindsey is a student at the NYU School of Global Public Health, where she is working toward her Master of Public Health and conducting research on media bias in reporting on substance use with the Opioid Policy Institute’s Reporting on Addiction initiative. She is also a Schwinn-certified spin class teacher. She won a 2023 Dunkin’ Donuts contest that earned her a year of free coffee. Lindsey lives in New York, NY.</p>\n</div>\n<p><a href=\"/author/lindseyellefson\">Read Lindsey\'s full bio</a></p><ul>\n<li>\n<a aria-label=\"Visit Lindsey\'s Facebook\" href=\"http://facebook.com/ellefs0n\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"Find on Facebook (Opens in a new tab)\">\n<svg>\n<use href=\"/images/icons/spritemap.svg#sprite-social-facebook\"></use>\n</svg>\n</a>\n</li>\n<li>\n<a aria-label=\"Visit Lindsey\'s Twitter\" href=\"https://twitter.com/ellefs0n\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"Find on Twitter (Opens in a new tab)\">\n<svg>\n<use href=\"/images/icons/spritemap.svg#sprite-social-twitter\"></use>\n</svg>\n</a>\n</li>\n<li>\n<a aria-label=\"Visit Lindsey\'s Instagram\" href=\"https://www.instagram.com/ellefs0n\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"Find on Instagram (Opens in a new tab)\">\n<svg>\n<use href=\"/images/icons/spritemap.svg#sprite-social-instagram\"></use>\n</svg>\n</a>\n</li>\n<li>\n<a aria-label=\"Send Lindsey an email\" href=\"/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#3a5653545e495f43145f56565f5c4955547a56535c5f525b59515f4814595557\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"Send an Email (Opens in a new tab)\">\n<svg>\n<use href=\"/images/icons/spritemap.svg#sprite-envelope\"></use>\n</svg>\n</a>\n</li>\n</ul>\n</div>\n</div>\n</div>\n</div>\n<div>\n\n<div>\n<div data-ga-action=\"latest-stories-stripe\" data-ga-element=\"latest-stories-stripe\" data-ga-module=\"latest-stories\">\n\n<p><a data-ga-click=\"\" data-ga-item=\"image\" data-ga-label=\"Tinfoil in the Dishwasher Doesn\'t Actually Shine Your Flatware\" data-ga-position=\"1\" href=\"/home/tinfoil-in-dishwasher-doesnt-shine-flatware\">\n<img alt=\"Clean dishes in dishwasher\" height=\"75\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https://lifehacker.com/imagery/articles/01HF4F8G6PNWJHMDPDCATH1FVX/hero-image.fill.size_75x75.v1699890729.jpg\" width=\"75\"></img>\n</a>\n</p></div>\n</div>\n<hr></hr>\n<div>\n<div data-ga-action=\"latest-stories-stripe\" data-ga-element=\"latest-stories-stripe\" data-ga-module=\"latest-stories\">\n\n<p><a data-ga-click=\"\" data-ga-item=\"image\" data-ga-label=\"Use \'Elaborative Interrogation\' to Challenge Yourself While Studying\" data-ga-position=\"2\" href=\"/use-elaborative-interrogation-to-challenge-yourself-whi-1851011669\">\n<img alt=\"Person taking notes in notebook, laptop nearby\" height=\"75\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https://lifehacker.com/imagery/articles/01HF2HJGNYQZJ63BVAC4XDR33V/hero-image.fill.size_75x75.v1699836373.jpg\" width=\"75\"></img>\n</a>\n</p></div>\n</div>\n<hr></hr>\n</div>\n</div>\n\n</section>\n</div>', 'You’ve heard of a to-do list, but what you might really need is a to-don’t list. Instead of focusing on all the tasks you have to get done, it could be beneficial for you to look at everything you don’t need to or even shouldn’t do. It sounds like a waste of …', 'https://i.kinja-img.com/image/upload/c_fill,h_675,pg_1,q_80,w_1200/261a92468ac42b73d6c1d7875ad3739a.jpg', '175', NULL, NULL, '', 'newsapi', NULL, NULL, '2023-11-14', '248', '0', '0', NULL, NULL, NULL),
(612, 'How to Print Documents From Your iPhone', '<div id=\"main\">\n<section aria-label=\"Content Header\" data-ga-module=\"content-header\" role=\"region\">\n<div>\n\n\n<p>Your iPhone comes with the ability to send docs straight to printers.</p>\n</div>\n</section>\n<section>\n<section data-ga-module=\"content-body\">\n\n<img alt=\"Man printing using phone \" height=\"702\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1280px) 100vw, 1280px\" src=\"https://lifehacker.com/imagery/articles/01HF2GG2Y0Q36GQ37NQQZ3PFZZ/hero-image.fill.size_1248x702.v1699833556.jpg\" srcset=\"https://lifehacker.com/imagery/articles/01HF2GG2Y0Q36GQ37NQQZ3PFZZ/hero-image.fill.size_400x225.v1699833556.jpg 400w, https://lifehacker.com/imagery/articles/01HF2GG2Y0Q36GQ37NQQZ3PFZZ/hero-image.fill.size_800x450.v1699833556.jpg 800w, https://lifehacker.com/imagery/articles/01HF2GG2Y0Q36GQ37NQQZ3PFZZ/hero-image.fill.size_1248x702.v1699833556.jpg 1600w\" width=\"1248\"></img>\n<p><span>Credit: Andrey_Popov - Shutterstock</span>\n</p>\n<article data-autopogo=\"\">\n<hr></hr>\n<p>Did you know you can send documents to your printer straight from your iPhone? I didn’t, until I was frustrated by needing to print a single page and sought some answers. It turns out that it’s really easy, as all iPhones come with something called AirPrint. You can do it without AirPrint, too, but we’ll get to that.<br></br></p><h2><strong>How to print with Apple AirPrint</strong></h2><p>Not all printers support AirPrint, but it’s pretty likely yours does. To make sure, Google your specific make and model or contact your manufacturer. As long as your printer supports it, start by making sure it’s connected to the same wifi as your phone. Then, follow these steps:</p><ol><li><p>Open whatever you want to print, and, depending on what it is, hit the “shareâ€ button or the “actionsâ€ button. Those will either look like arrows or three dots. </p></li><li><p>In the action menu, look for the “Printâ€ option, then tap it. </p></li><li><p>This opens a “Print Optionsâ€ tab, where you’ll see “Printerâ€ at the top, followed by “No Printer Selected.â€ Tapping the latter will bring you to a page where you can select a printer. If the printer you want supports AirPrint and is on the same wifi, you’ll see it in the list. </p></li><li><p>From here, do what you’d normally do when printing: Select how many copies you want, which pages you want to print, what the layout will be, etc. </p></li><li><p>Hit “Printâ€ in the upper right corner.</p></li></ol><p>As the request is processing, you can open the app switcher to access the Print Center. You can go in there to monitor the printing progress or cancel the job. It’s that easy, and not too much different than printing on a computer.</p><h2><strong>How to print without AirPrint</strong></h2><p>If your printer doesn’t support AirPrint, it’s not the end of the road. First, check if your printer has an app in the App Store. Some of them do, though these will require you to follow certain app-based steps to set them up. For the most part, you’ll likely need to dive into your settings after downloading the app, hit “wifi,â€ and find your printer under “Other Networks.â€ You’ll be able to print by hitting the “Shareâ€ button on your document and selecting the printer there.</p><p>You can also plug your phone into your printer with a Lightning-to-USB cable and agree to the pop-up that appears on your phone. You’ll follow the same steps as AirPrint, hitting “Shareâ€ and “Print.â€ The printer you’re plugged into should appear on the “Printer Optionsâ€ page. </p><p>That’s a little more tedious, but still not as annoying as whipping out a laptop for a two-second job, or, worse, heading to the local print shop to email the documents from your phone to a printer that costs a bunch of money. <br></br></p>\n</article>\n\n</section>\n\n</section>\n\n</div>', 'Did you know you can send documents to your printer straight from your iPhone? I didn’t, until I was frustrated by needing to print a single page and sought some answers. It turns out that it’s really easy, as all iPhones come with something called AirPrint. …', 'https://i.kinja-img.com/image/upload/c_fill,h_675,pg_1,q_80,w_1200/4809698365e6958b317976b77bec9e2f.jpg', '175', NULL, NULL, '', 'newsapi', NULL, NULL, '2023-11-14', '248', '0', '0', NULL, NULL, NULL),
(613, 'What People Are Getting Wrong This Week: The Dead Internet Theory Isnt Real, I Swear', '<section>\n<section data-ga-module=\"content-body\">\n\n<img alt=\"What People Are Getting Wrong This Week: The \'Dead Internet Theory\' Isn\'t Real, I Swear\" height=\"702\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1280px) 100vw, 1280px\" src=\"https://lifehacker.com/imagery/articles/01HF2HF97ANTTHQZ5SYGAH0GJ4/hero-image.fill.size_1248x702.v1699833333.jpg\" srcset=\"https://lifehacker.com/imagery/articles/01HF2HF97ANTTHQZ5SYGAH0GJ4/hero-image.fill.size_400x225.v1699833333.jpg 400w, https://lifehacker.com/imagery/articles/01HF2HF97ANTTHQZ5SYGAH0GJ4/hero-image.fill.size_800x450.v1699833333.jpg 800w, https://lifehacker.com/imagery/articles/01HF2HF97ANTTHQZ5SYGAH0GJ4/hero-image.fill.size_1248x702.v1699833333.jpg 1600w\" width=\"1248\"></img>\n<p><span>Credit: Golden Dayz - Shutterstock</span>\n</p>\n<article data-autopogo=\"\">\n<hr></hr>\n<p>Is the internet dead? Proponents of the Dead Internet Theory believe that the internet, as we understand it, doesn’t exist. It died around 2016, and since then, everything we see online, from Instagram pictures to this post on Lifehacker, has been generated by artificial intelligence and fed to consumers by a shadowy cabal of corporate CEOs and governments in order to control people’s thoughts and keep them consuming. They’re partly right, but the things they get wrong are dangerous.<br></br></p><h2><strong>The history of the Dead Internet Theory</strong></h2><p>Ground zero for the spread of the Dead Internet theory is a <a href=\"https://archive.4plebs.org/x/thread/26274842/#26275127\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"(opens in a new window)\">September 2019 thread on 4chan</a> where anonymous users put their heads together to try to figure out how much of the internet is legit. They concluded that it’s almost all fake, but it used to be real. The evidence on the thread is internet-spotty—younger people having the feelings that something just isn’t right, older users remembering the glory days of the early Internet—but 4chan’s posters managed to draw a rough sketch of a conversation that’s been going on in academic and technology circles since at least 2010. Anyone paying attention could see that advances in AI technology and the rise of content-curating algorithms are changing the internet from a digital Wild West to something “safer,â€ blander, and perhaps more sinister. But the transformation isn’t complete, and it’s not evidence of a top-down imposition of “The Man’sâ€ sinister plans, as most Dead Internet Theory people believe.</p><p>The problem with the Dead Internet Theory isn’t that it’s totally wrong—bots and algorithms really are changing the online experience in fundamental ways—but some proponents of the dead internet theory are ignoring context and drawing unwarranted conclusions to support a larger narrative that isn’t supported by evidence—like any conspiracy theory. Also like any conspiracy theory, the dead internet theory is being used to justify prejudice and hatred.</p><h2><strong>The internet is this way because people like it this way</strong><br></br></h2><p>It’s easy to wax nostalgic for the days when anything could be posted anywhere on the internet. It was free! It wasn’t designed to sell you things! But people who do this weren’t there, or they’re viewing what there was like through rose-colored glasses. In reality, the online world, as a whole, is going through a larger version of the process that just about every internet space has always gone through when it gained popularity. </p><p>It goes like this: Some small group gathers somewhere to exchange ideas in a totally free, anything goes environment. It’s cool, but messy—lots of new, challenging ideas, but no real means of filtering them. </p><p>The space eventually gets noticed by more people, and some of these newbies are bad actors—spammers, trolls, or worse—and their conversations and ideas starts to crowd out the original posters and the space becomes unpleasant and unusable.</p><p>This leaves the people who run the site with a choice: They can either hold to the ideals of “free speechâ€ and let everyone be free to do what they want, or they can impose some rules and organization to try to preserve what people originally liked about the space.</p><p>Neither option is great. If they take a hands-off approach, the space becomes the property of the trolls and bad actors, driving the original population elsewhere (see: 4chan). If they moderate and put up safety rails, they lose the freedom that made the place interesting to begin with, and the space ends up a watered-down, dumber place. It’s welcoming to new users, as long as they’re non-controversial (see: Reddit).</p><p>The problem is, those “new usersâ€ who prefer safety and security over anarchy represent almost everyone. I think it’s fair to say that most people would pick an algorithmically curated feed of “videos that I would probably likeâ€ on YouTube over being left in the middle of GeoCities and told “dig something useful out of this gigantic mountain of crap.â€ </p><h2><strong>The existence of the dead internet theory proves it’s false</strong></h2><p>If there were really a central power controlling everything on the internet, you’d think videos and articles explaining the Dead Internet Theory would be excluded by the algorithm, lest the sheeple finally wake up. But it’s not hard to find information about the grand plan (or any other conspiracy theory) because people can make money from it in a way that they can’t make money from hate-speech and trolling.<br></br></p><p>For believers, conspiracy theories are enraging without being challenging. The anger over the unfairness of the bad people in control of our lives is addictive, and algorithms have been fine-tuned to keep people watching and clicking. That creepy science forces us all into smaller and smaller ideological echo chambers, but there’s no central power looking down on us and saying, “Good! Now they’ll be compliant!â€ There’s just us, and our prejudices and our messiness, and the people profiting off us by giving us exactly what we want.</p><h2><strong>The rise of the NPC</strong></h2><p>One of the harmful offshoots of the Dead Internet theory is the idea of the NPC. Taken from the initials of “non-player character,â€ darker, dumber corners of the internet have been describing people they disagree with as NPCs since the meme first appeared on 4chan (of course) in 2016. According to the theory, most people aren’t fully human. Instead of thinking for themselves, they’re programmed to “follow group-think and social trends in order to appear convincingly human.â€</p><p>While most people who started thinking of others as NPCs meant it in the “they’re just brainwashed sheepleâ€ sense that’s so common among stupid people with “ideas,â€ some Dead Internet Theory conspiracy theorists take it literally. They believe that anyone who disagrees with them online is an AI. Dehumanizing ideological enemies is a troubling step toward political violence, but in the Dead Internet sense it’s also a contradiction. If you long for the freedom of ideas that you think the internet once stood for, why would you not welcome people with challenging ideas? If you like freedom, why create a worldview where waving away inconvenient facts is easy as saying “that’s just what the machines <em>want</em> you to believe!â€</p><h2><strong>Solipsism and the Dead Internet</strong></h2><p>At its core, the Dead Internet Theory is a kind of digital solipsism—the idea that the self is the only thing that exists. Solipsism can’t really be disproven, but it’s hard to take seriously when you’re talking to another flesh-and-blood person. If you perpetually live online, where tools already exist for computers to fool most of the people, most of the time, it’s easy to believe that those tools are being employed always. They aren’t—I’m a real guy who really wrote these words—but as more and more of the human element of the internet is replaced by computer programs, the terrifying vision of a Dead Internet may come to exist. But we have at least six months, so don’t sweat it.<br></br></p>\n</article>\n\n</section>\n\n</section><div data-ga-module=\"content-footer\">\n<section>\n<div>\n<div>\n<div>\n<div>\n<div>\n<div>\n<p><img alt=\"Stephen Johnson\" height=\"150\" src=\"https://lifehacker.com/imagery/authors/01HF2FBDNBRVCFA9C8GPD4C5FA/image.fill.size_150x150.v1699901091.jpg\" width=\"150\"></img>\n</p>\n</div>\n</div>\n<div>\n<p>Stephen Johnson</p>\n<p>Staff Writer</p>\n<div>\n<p>Stephen Johnson is a Staff Writer for Lifehacker where he covers pop culture, including two weekly columns “The Out of Touch Adults’ Guide to Kid Cultureâ€ and “What People are Getting Wrong this Week.â€ He graduated from Emerson College with a BFA in Writing, Literature, and Publishing.</p><p>Previously, Stephen was Managing Editor at NBC/Universal’s G4TV. While at G4, he won a Telly Award for writing and was nominated for a Webby award. Stephen has also written for Blumhouse, FearNET, Performing Songwriter magazine, NewEgg, AVN, GameFly, Art Connoisseur International magazine, Fender Musical Instruments, Hustler Magazine, and other outlets. His work has aired on Comedy Central and screened at the Sundance International Film Festival, Palm Springs International Film Festival, and Chicago Horror Film Festival. He lives in Los Angeles, CA.</p>\n</div>\n<p><a href=\"/author/stephenjohnson\">Read Stephen\'s full bio</a></p><ul>\n<li>\n<a aria-label=\"Visit Stephen\'s Facebook\" href=\"http://facebook.com/StephenAJohnson\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"Find on Facebook (Opens in a new tab)\">\n<svg>\n<use href=\"/images/icons/spritemap.svg#sprite-social-facebook\"></use>\n</svg>\n</a>\n</li>\n<li>\n<a aria-label=\"Visit Stephen\'s Twitter\" href=\"https://twitter.com/@steveajohnson\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"Find on Twitter (Opens in a new tab)\">\n<svg>\n<use href=\"/images/icons/spritemap.svg#sprite-social-twitter\"></use>\n</svg>\n</a>\n</li>\n<li>\n<a aria-label=\"Send Stephen an email\" href=\"/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#0271686d6a6c716d6c426e6b64676a63616967702c616d6f\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"Send an Email (Opens in a new tab)\">\n<svg>\n<use href=\"/images/icons/spritemap.svg#sprite-envelope\"></use>\n</svg>\n</a>\n</li>\n</ul>\n</div>\n</div>\n</div>\n</div>\n<div>\n\n<div>\n<div data-ga-action=\"latest-stories-stripe\" data-ga-element=\"latest-stories-stripe\" data-ga-module=\"latest-stories\">\n\n<p><a data-ga-click=\"\" data-ga-item=\"image\" data-ga-label=\"The Future Is Here With the Roomba Combo J9+ Robot Vacuum and Mop\" data-ga-position=\"1\" href=\"/tech/roomba-combo-j9-robot-vacuum-mop-review\">\n<img alt=\"Roomba Combo J9+ Robot Vacuum and Mop\" height=\"75\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https://lifehacker.com/imagery/articles/01HF4SWET3DFA8XX57EGM0NA65/hero-image.fill.size_75x75.v1699894671.jpg\" width=\"75\"></img>\n</a>\n</p></div>\n</div>\n<hr></hr>\n<div>\n<div data-ga-action=\"latest-stories-stripe\" data-ga-element=\"latest-stories-stripe\" data-ga-module=\"latest-stories\">\n\n<p><a data-ga-click=\"\" data-ga-item=\"image\" data-ga-label=\"The Easiest Ways to Take Better Vacation Pictures\" data-ga-position=\"2\" href=\"/the-easiest-ways-to-take-better-vacation-pictures-1851009554\">\n<img alt=\"woman taking a selfie in front of the Eiffel Tower\" height=\"75\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https://lifehacker.com/imagery/articles/01HF2GM4JKCGXB7V8KTBVXQ68W/hero-image.fill.size_75x75.v1699833974.jpg\" width=\"75\"></img>\n</a>\n</p></div>\n</div>\n<hr></hr>\n</div>\n</div>\n\n</section>\n</div>', 'Is the internet dead? Proponents of the Dead Internet Theory believe that the internet, as we understand it, doesn’t exist. It died around 2016, and since then, everything we see online, from Instagram pictures to this post on Lifehacker, has been generated b…', 'https://i.kinja-img.com/image/upload/c_fill,h_675,pg_1,q_80,w_1200/be48b843850c5a17cc288af8eb8078d0.jpg', '175', NULL, NULL, '', 'newsapi', NULL, NULL, '2023-11-14', '248', '0', '0', NULL, NULL, NULL);
INSERT INTO `tbl_article` (`id`, `arttitle`, `artcontent`, `artshortcontent`, `artimg`, `artwebdomain`, `artcat`, `artcatname`, `artcampid`, `arttype`, `artvideoid`, `artytlang`, `artdate`, `uid`, `spintextflag`, `langtransflag`, `artinbuildnewskeyword`, `artnewstype`, `artnewskeyword`) VALUES
(614, '25 Modern Christmas Classics You Can Stream Right Now', '<section>\n<section data-ga-module=\"content-body\">\n\n<img alt=\"Still from &quot;The Night Before&quot; movie \" height=\"702\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1280px) 100vw, 1280px\" src=\"https://lifehacker.com/imagery/articles/01HF2H2V2MV9HM6SSC2Y575GE9/hero-image.fill.size_1248x702.v1699833522.jpg\" srcset=\"https://lifehacker.com/imagery/articles/01HF2H2V2MV9HM6SSC2Y575GE9/hero-image.fill.size_400x225.v1699833522.jpg 400w, https://lifehacker.com/imagery/articles/01HF2H2V2MV9HM6SSC2Y575GE9/hero-image.fill.size_800x450.v1699833522.jpg 800w, https://lifehacker.com/imagery/articles/01HF2H2V2MV9HM6SSC2Y575GE9/hero-image.fill.size_1248x702.v1699833522.jpg 1600w\" width=\"1248\"></img>\n<p><span>Credit: Columbia Pictures</span>\n</p>\n<article data-autopogo=\"\">\n<hr></hr>\n<p>Christmas movies have been a tradition for decades, but the days when we had to watch George Bailey try to jump off of a bridge year after year are well past us. Holiday movies are an industry in and of themselves, with dozens, if not hundreds of new seasonal offerings released starting around June. Most of them are cozy, Christmas cookie-cutter offerings, relaxing and largely disposable. But still, classics do emerge. With an entirely arbitrary two-decade cut-off, we’re taking a look at modern masterpieces of the form.<br></br></p><p>Luckily, the Christmas genre runs wide and deep: silly comedies, cozy dramas, gruesome horrors, queer romances, and surprisingly literal adaptations of Wham! songs. It’s all here!</p><hr></hr><h2><em>Elf</em> (2003)</h2>\n\n<p>A Will Ferrell comedy about a human who identifies as a literal elf has no business being this sweet and smart. Ferrell is Buddy, a kid who was accidentally shipped off to the North Pole as a child, and now he’s off to New York during the holiday season to find his biological father (James Caan). The impressive cast here (Ed Asner, Zooey Deschanel, Peter Dinklage, Bob Newhart) doesn’t hurt one bit.</p><p><strong>Where to stream:</strong> Max</p><hr></hr><h2><em>Tokyo Godfathers</em> (2003)</h2>\n\n<p>Roughly inspired by John Ford’s 1948 <em>3 Godfathers</em>, this one finds a drag queen, a teenage runaway, and a good-hearted middle-aged man struggling with alcoholism living on the streets of Tokyo when they come across a baby in a trash bin on Christmas Eve. The lovely, moving adventure that follows comes from director Satoshi Kon, who also directed classics <em>Perfect Blue</em>, <em>Millennium Actress</em>, and <em>Paprika</em> in his too-short life and career. </p><p><strong>Where to stream:</strong> Tubi, The Roku Channel, Hoopla, Pluto TV</p><hr></hr><h2><em>Love Actually</em> (2003)</h2>\n\n<p>Starting a few weeks before the holiday and counting down to the big day, the modern Christmas staple movie weaves together multiple stories of love starring British familiars like Hugh Grant, Emma Thompson, Alan Rickman, Keira Knightley, and Colin Firth. If anyone’s ever professed love to you via a series of cue cards on your doorstep, you can thank (or blame) <em>Love Actually</em>.</p><p><strong>Where to stream:</strong> Netflix</p><hr></hr><h2><em>Bad Santa</em> (2003)</h2>\n\n<p>2003 was a banner year for modern Christmas classics, in any flavor you’d choose. The platonic ideal of a rude Christmas movie, Terry Zwigoff’s <em>Bad Santa</em> stars Billy Bob Thornton as Willie Soke, a mall Santa who’s actually a con man, using his seasonal gigs to scope out stores that he can rob at night. He represents everything that you probably don’t want your kid to be around during the holidays (or anytime, really): He’s foul-mouthed, cynical, and abusive whenever he’s not putting on the merest hint of a front for the children. The film does offer a solid Christmas redemption arc in and around scenes of seasonal debauchery—but still, this probably isn’t one for the kids.</p><p><strong>Where to stream:</strong> Paramount+</p><hr></hr><h2><em>The Polar Express</em> (2004)</h2>\n\n<p>You might find this journey into the uncanny valley a little unnerving, which: fair. The animation style here is either beautiful and groundbreaking, or deeply creepy, and probably a bit of both. Still, the journey of a doubting young boy to the North Pole has timeless messages about the value of childhood wonder, and the slightly bittersweet ending balances the movie’s moments of holiday schmaltz.</p><p><strong>Where to stream:</strong> Max</p><hr></hr><h2><em>Joyeux Noël</em> (2005)</h2>\n\n<p>A fictionalized version of a true story, this Academy Award nominee deals with an unusual moment during the first year of World War I, when, at several points along the front lines, French, German, and British soldiers called a series of informal truces, often mingling to celebrate Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. The German Crown Prince even sent the lead singer of the Berlin opera to perform along the front lines, entertaining both sides. In dramatizing the event, the filmmakers understand that the truce was both glorious and absurd. Those complicated feelings, and the knowledge that what we’re seeing represents a momentary lull in a war that would continue for years, make for powerful emotional moments.</p><p><strong>Where to stream:</strong> Tubi</p><hr></hr><h2><em>The Family Stone</em> (2005)</h2>\n\n<p>Holiday gatherings always offer great potential for comedy and drama, with The Family Stone landing a bit of each. The setup involves Dermot Mulroney bringing home his new girlfriend, played by a fearlessly brittle Sarah Jessica Parker, for Christmas. That doesn’t go great, with the visitor constantly feeling out of place and embarrassed amid the insular, tight-knit, standoffish clan. But, in the background, strong-willed matriarch Sybil Stone (Diane Keaton) is also looking for an opportunity, amidst the holiday chaos, to reveal a terminal medical diagnosis. The subtle final shot lands like a sledgehammer every time.</p><p><strong>Where to stream:</strong> Fubo</p><hr></hr><h2><em>The Holiday</em> (2006)</h2>\n\n<p>Depressed Englishwoman Iris (Kate Winslet) decides to swap homes and lives, for a bit, with similarly unlucky-in-love Californian Amanda (Cameron Diaz). Iris is now living in a giant Hollywood mansion, while Amanda is exploring a quaint country village. Naturally, romance is waiting for each woman in her newfound environs. It was largely ignored on its initial release, but has grown into a charmingly dorky Christmas cult classic.</p><p><strong>Where to stream:</strong> Hulu, Starz</p><hr></hr><h2><em>Rare Exports: A Christmas Tale</em> (2010)</h2>\n\n<p>In the film, the research team of a greedy government drills into land best left undisturbed: an ancient burial mound that, legends suggest, is the resting place of Joulupukki, a pagan forerunner to our modern Santa Claus. BAD IDEA. Old Joulupukki is not dissimilar from Krampus, in that he’s much more interested in punishing the wicked than in rewarding the good. It’s an action-packed, darkly comic, cynical winter’s tale (rather the perfect one for our times) and builds to a wild climax.</p><p><strong>Where to stream:</strong> Peacock, Tubi, Kanopy, Redbox, Pluto TV</p><hr></hr><h2><em>Arthur Christmas</em> (2011)</h2>\n\n<p>Aardman Animations, the <em>Wallace and Gromit/Shaun the Sheep</em> people, produced this joyful, quirky computer-animated family film. James McAvoy plays Arthur Claus, son of the current holder of the Santa title. Operations at the North Pole are largely automated, and Arthur has a hard time convincing management that a single undelivered toy is worth much fuss. So it’s clumsy, goofy Arthur to the rescue, with the certain knowledge that ruining even one kid’s holiday would be a failure.</p><p><strong>Where to stream:</strong> Max</p><hr></hr><h2><em>The Best Man Holiday</em> (2013)</h2>\n\n<p>The long-awaited sequel to 1999\'s <em>The Best Man</em>, this one quickly updates us on the fallout from that earlier film before moving into new territory (it’s not strictly necessary to have seen the original if you’re looking to dive straight into the holiday festivities). Morris Chestnut, Taye Diggs, Regina Hall, Terrence Howard, and Sanaa Lathan lead the sequel, which offers a bold blend of off-color humor, hot shirtless guys, sincere religious themes, and shamelessly heartbreaking plot twists. </p><p><strong>Where to stream:</strong> Peacock</p><hr></hr><h2><em>Tangerine</em> (2015)</h2>\n\n<p>Just your typical girlfriend/buddy/revenge comedy movie about two trans sex workers on the hunt for the man who did one of them wrong. As heartfelt as it is madcap, it all takes place on a wild Christmas Eve in Hollywood (so don’t expect snow). Shot on a couple of iPhones, director Sean Baker and company make a virtue of the intimacy and immediacy that modern technology can bring.</p><p><strong>Where to stream:</strong> Mubi, Kanopy, Hoopla, Plex</p><hr></hr><h2><em>Carol</em> (2015)</h2>\n\n<p>Mara Rooney’s Therese and Cate Blanchett’s glamorous Carol set off sparks when they meet in a department store during the Christmas season of 1952. The women suffer for their growing attraction, and this certainly isn’t the breeziest of holiday movies, but there’s light here, and beauty, and hope for the future.</p><p><strong>Where to stream:</strong> Netflix</p><hr></hr><h2><em>The Night Before</em> (2015)</h2>\n\n<p>What else are you gonna do Christmas Eve than spend the night with your best friends (Seth Rogan, Anthony Mackie, and Joseph Gordon-Levitt) at something called the Nutcracker Ball? Yeah, sounds awful to me, too. Luckily they’ve got a ton of drugs to get them through the night. A reliably entertaining stoner Christmas story.</p><p><strong>Where to stream:</strong> Tubi</p><hr></hr><h2><em>Krampus</em> (2015)</h2>\n\n<p>Among the best of a decade’s worth of films reviving ancient, scary European traditions involving far less jolly versions of Santa, Krampus is a Gremlins-esque horror comedy with imaginative creature effects from the folx over at Weta Workshop. It might not be the darkest, nor the goriest, of holiday-themed horror sendups, but it is an awful lot of fun, with effects that evoke a twisted winter wonderland as we follow a family being hunted by the title demon.</p><p><strong>Where to stream:</strong> Peacock</p><hr></hr><h2><em>Anna and the Apocalypse</em> (2017)</h2>\n\n<p>Zombies for Christmas? OK! In this mash-up of <em>High School Musical</em> and <em>Shaun of the Dead </em>that you never knew you needed, the titular Anna just wants to get through the Christmas show at her high school in Little Haven, Scotland. She’s so preoccupied with her own problems that she fails to notice the undead infection spreading around her. It’s a weird blend of styles, no question, but one packed with gory fun, musical numbers, and some surprising, seasonally appropriate heart. </p><p><strong>Where to stream:</strong> Shudder</p><hr></hr><h2><em>The Man Who Invented Christmas</em> (2017)</h2>\n\n<p>There are plenty of versions of <em>A Christmas Carol</em> to choose from, but this one examines that tale from the other side. It’s the story of Charles Dickens himself (Dan Stevens) and his journey to creating the wildly successful work. Dodging typical biopic tropes in favor of something more appropriate to the subject matter, the movie finds Dickens interacting with his fictional characters in a film that blends realism with whimsical fantasy.</p><p><strong>Where to stream:</strong> Starz, Kanopy, Hoopla</p><hr></hr><h2><em>The Grinch</em> (2018)</h2>\n\n<p>Though I might still stick with the 1966 animated version (Boris Karloff FTW), as updates go, this 2018 version is bright and colorful and energetic without getting stressful (looking at you, Jim Carrey version from 2000). Benedict Cumberbatch plays the Grinch, Pharrell narrates, and Rashida Jones, Kenan Thompson, and Angela Lansbury round out the solid voice cast.</p><p><strong>Where to stream:</strong> Peacock</p><hr></hr><h2><em>The Christmas Chronicles</em> (2018)</h2>\n\n<p>A deeply cute Christmas adventure finds a couple of kids (Judah Lewis and Darby Camp) accidentally crashing Santa’s sleigh (Santa here is played by Kurt Russell). It’s got plenty of (family-friendly) action, and Russell seems to be having a ton of fun. If you like this one, the sequel is approximately as good.</p><p><strong>Where to stream:</strong> Netflix</p><hr></hr><h2><em>Last Christmas</em> (2019)</h2>\n\n<p>Emilia Clarke and America’s sweetheart Henry Golding have tremendous chemistry as a down-on-her-luck aspiring singer and the slightly mysterious man with whom she shares a lovely and inspiring holiday season. The twist ending here, inspired by a literal reading of the title song, is <em>bonkers</em>—but it works better than it has a right to.</p><p><strong>Where to stream:</strong> Prime Video</p><hr></hr><h2><em>Klaus</em> (2019)</h2>\n\n<p>A charming Santa origin story based on nothing in particular, <em>Klaus</em> finds Jesper Johansen, the lazy son of a postmaster general in 19th century Norway forced to a distant island town where he’s tasked with delivering 6,000 letters within a year, otherwise he’ll be cut off from the family fortune. Arriving there, he discovers the two primary feuding families can’t be bothered to send letters for him to deliver, but that reclusive widower Klaus <em>might</em> be willing to help him in a scheme he’s concocted to convince the town’s children to write letters in the hopes of receiving toys in return—toys crafted by old Klaus in hope of a family that never materialized. It’s all beautifully done, and I defy you not to cry during the final act.</p><p><strong>Where to stream:</strong> Netflix</p><hr></hr><h2><em>Little Women</em> (2019)</h2>\n\n<p>Before <em>Barbie</em>, Greta Gerwig took on an American classic and, while I’m not sure there’s ever been a bad adaptation of <em>Little Women</em>, this one is at the top of the pile, staying faithful to the novel’s themes while rearranging the narrative just a bit, and adding elements from Alcott’s own life to hint at the ending that the author <em>really</em> wanted.</p><hr></hr><h2><em>Happiest Season</em> (2020)</h2>\n\n<p>This splashy Christmas comedy with a marquee cast (Kristen Stewart, Mackenzie Davis, Alison Brie, Aubrey Plaza, et al.) sits somewhere on the border between Lifetime/Hallmark-style Christmas movie and traditional rom-com. Abby and Harper are a couple that have been dating for nearly a year—but it turns out that Harper had lied about coming out to her parents. And, what with the stress of the holidays, she’s hoping that Abby will play along and pretend to be her roommate until after Christmas. What could go wrong?</p><p><strong>Where to stream:</strong> Hulu</p><hr></hr><h2><em>Jingle Jangle</em> (2020)</h2>\n\n<p>This one’s a straight-up fantasy that finds toymaker Jeronicus Jangle (Forest Whitaker) inventing a sentient matador figure (Ricky Martin) who fights for his right to be something other than a mass-produced toy. That sets off a series of misfortunes for Jeronicus, but his granddaughter Journey (Madalen Mills) is on hand to try to put things right. The pedigree here includes playwright David E. Talbert in the director’s chair and an almost all-Black cast that includes Whitaker, Keegan-Michael Key, and Anika Noni Rose, all having a lot of fun in a colorful (and musical!) adventure.</p><p><strong>Where to stream:</strong> Netflix</p><hr></hr><h2><em>Single All the Way</em> (2021)</h2>\n\n<p>Sick of questions about being single, Peter (Michael Urie) decides to invite his best friend Nick (Philemon Chambers) to pose as more than his roommate. He’s in a high-stress L.A. job, and heading home for the holidays in New Hampshire and just can’t deal with cracks about being single. His mom (Kathy Najimy), though, already had plans to fix him up with her fitness instructor (Luke Macfarlane). Now James has to navigate not only his family obligations and his new date, but also his developing feelings for the guy who was just supposed to be a pretend romance.</p><p><strong>Where to stream:</strong> Netflix</p>\n</article>\n\n</section>\n\n</section>', 'Christmas movies have been a tradition for decades, but the days when we had to watch George Bailey try to jump off of a bridge year after year are well past us. Holiday movies are an industry in and of themselves, with dozens, if not hundreds of new seasonal…', 'https://i.kinja-img.com/image/upload/c_fill,h_675,pg_1,q_80,w_1200/9b96ef13e8f459399b669d257665233a.jpg', '175', NULL, NULL, '', 'newsapi', NULL, NULL, '2023-11-14', '248', '0', '0', NULL, NULL, NULL),
(615, 'Samsungs 32-inch Smart Monitor M80C is down to $400 in an early Black Friday deal', '<div><div><p><a data-ylk=\"elm:author;slk:Jeff Dunn;itc:0\" href=\"https://www.engadget.com/about/editors/jeff-dunn/\"><img alt=\"Jeff Dunn\" data-src=\"https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/o6GTlzVd422rcXue9loPOw--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTgwO2g9ODA-/https://o.aolcdn.com/images/dims?image_uri=https%3A%2F%2Fo.aolcdn.com%2Fimages%2Fdims%3Fimage_uri%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Fs.yimg.com%252Fos%252Fcreatr-uploaded-images%252F2022-10%252F17cde000-4fb0-11ed-beef-170c4ce1a686%26compress%3D1%26progressive%3D1%26quality%3D75%26client%3Dhawkeye%26signature%3Dadddf7db14a894897d9915fdd68de397376918bc&amp;compress=1&amp;progressive=1&amp;quality=75&amp;client=hawkeye&amp;signature=a7dea0c59e7e5c7a10e97c8eded13dcd9457bdc4\" src=\"https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/o6GTlzVd422rcXue9loPOw--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTgwO2g9ODA-/https://o.aolcdn.com/images/dims?image_uri=https%3A%2F%2Fo.aolcdn.com%2Fimages%2Fdims%3Fimage_uri%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Fs.yimg.com%252Fos%252Fcreatr-uploaded-images%252F2022-10%252F17cde000-4fb0-11ed-beef-170c4ce1a686%26compress%3D1%26progressive%3D1%26quality%3D75%26client%3Dhawkeye%26signature%3Dadddf7db14a894897d9915fdd68de397376918bc&amp;compress=1&amp;progressive=1&amp;quality=75&amp;client=hawkeye&amp;signature=a7dea0c59e7e5c7a10e97c8eded13dcd9457bdc4\"></img></a></p></div></div><div><p><a data-i13n=\"elm:affiliate_link;sellerN:Amazon;elmt:;cpos:1;pos:1\" data-ylk=\"slk:Samsung\'s Smart Monitor M80C;elm:affiliate_link;sellerN:Amazon;elmt:;cpos:1;pos:1;itc:0\" href=\"https://shopping.yahoo.com/rdlw?merchantId=66ea567a-c987-4c2e-a2ff-02904efde6ea&amp;siteId=us-engadget&amp;pageId=1p-autolink&amp;featureId=text-link&amp;merchantName=Amazon&amp;custData=eyJzb3VyY2VOYW1lIjoiV2ViLURlc2t0b3AtVmVyaXpvbiIsImxhbmRpbmdVcmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5hbWF6b24uY29tL1NBTVNVTkctQ29tcHV0ZXItU3RyZWFtaW5nLUluY2x1ZGVkLUxTMzJDTTgwMVVOWFpBL2RwL0IwQzNXTVg2OVcvP3RhZz1nZGd0MGMtcC1vLTR4dC0yMCIsImNvbnRlbnRVdWlkIjoiNjZmNTY4N2EtZTFiYi00NTg2LWE2OWYtZDAxMzdlYTFjZGJlIn0&amp;signature=AQAAAXI3-0BJjd3X1K4aFI9cdnpfMqx-RpspPk0aJPb5NF1O&amp;gcReferrer=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2FSAMSUNG-Computer-Streaming-Included-LS32CM801UNXZA%2Fdp%2FB0C3WMX69W%2F\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Samsung\'s Smart Monitor M80C</a> is one of the more unique monitors on the market, as it blends a 4K display for your computer with the features of a small smart TV and smart home hub. We\'ve seen this latest model in the Smart Monitor series go on sale a few times since it <a data-i13n=\"cpos:2;pos:1\" data-ylk=\"slk:arrived in June;cpos:2;pos:1;elm:context_link;itc:0\" href=\"https://www.engadget.com/samsungs-2023-smart-monitors-arrive-in-june-starting-at-280-133952508.html\">arrived in June</a>, but right now the 32-inch M80C is <a data-i13n=\"elm:affiliate_link;sellerN:Amazon;elmt:;cpos:3;pos:1\" data-ylk=\"slk:down to $400;elm:affiliate_link;sellerN:Amazon;elmt:;cpos:3;pos:1;itc:0\" href=\"https://shopping.yahoo.com/rdlw?merchantId=66ea567a-c987-4c2e-a2ff-02904efde6ea&amp;siteId=us-engadget&amp;pageId=1p-autolink&amp;featureId=text-link&amp;merchantName=Amazon&amp;custData=eyJzb3VyY2VOYW1lIjoiV2ViLURlc2t0b3AtVmVyaXpvbiIsImxhbmRpbmdVcmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5hbWF6b24uY29tL1NBTVNVTkctQ29tcHV0ZXItU3RyZWFtaW5nLUluY2x1ZGVkLUxTMzJDTTgwMVVOWFpBL2RwL0IwQzNXTVg2OVcvP3RhZz1nZGd0MGMtcC1vLTR4dC0yMCIsImNvbnRlbnRVdWlkIjoiNjZmNTY4N2EtZTFiYi00NTg2LWE2OWYtZDAxMzdlYTFjZGJlIn0&amp;signature=AQAAAXI3-0BJjd3X1K4aFI9cdnpfMqx-RpspPk0aJPb5NF1O&amp;gcReferrer=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2FSAMSUNG-Computer-Streaming-Included-LS32CM801UNXZA%2Fdp%2FB0C3WMX69W%2F\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">down to $400</a> at Amazon with an on-page coupon. We could always see a better deal on Black Friday, but for now this is the lowest price we\'ve seen and roughly $200 below the display\'s average street price in recent months. Other stores like <a data-i13n=\"elm:affiliate_link;sellerN:Best Buy;elmt:;cpos:4;pos:1\" data-ylk=\"slk:Best Buy;elm:affiliate_link;sellerN:Best Buy;elmt:;cpos:4;pos:1;itc:0\" href=\"https://shopping.yahoo.com/rdlw?merchantId=5e0bed65-d2f8-4b34-9b8f-955218c0e37a&amp;siteId=us-engadget&amp;pageId=1p-autolink&amp;featureId=text-link&amp;merchantName=Best+Buy&amp;custData=eyJzb3VyY2VOYW1lIjoiV2ViLURlc2t0b3AtVmVyaXpvbiIsImxhbmRpbmdVcmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5iZXN0YnV5LmNvbS9zaXRlL3NhbXN1bmctbTgwYy0zMi1zbWFydC10aXplbi00ay11aGQtbW9uaXRvci13aXRoLXN0cmVhbWluZy10di1oZHIxMC1lcmdvbm9taWMtc3RhbmQtc2xpbWZpdC1jYW1lcmEtYnVpbHQtaW4tc3BlYWtlcnMtd2FybS13aGl0ZS82NTQ0MTQ4LnA_c2t1SWQ9NjU0NDE0OCIsImNvbnRlbnRVdWlkIjoiNjZmNTY4N2EtZTFiYi00NTg2LWE2OWYtZDAxMzdlYTFjZGJlIn0&amp;signature=AQAAAa0Wd4PerGP2tYyJTSEoQn85cpARY-Ek0Vm3y4qfFRz1&amp;gcReferrer=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.bestbuy.com%2Fsite%2Fsamsung-m80c-32-smart-tizen-4k-uhd-monitor-with-streaming-tv-hdr10-ergonomic-stand-slimfit-camera-built-in-speakers-warm-white%2F6544148.p%3FskuId%3D6544148\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Best Buy</a>, <a data-i13n=\"elm:affiliate_link;sellerN:B&amp;H Photo;elmt:;cpos:5;pos:1\" data-ylk=\"slk:B&amp;H;elm:affiliate_link;sellerN:B&amp;H Photo;elmt:;cpos:5;pos:1;itc:0\" href=\"https://shopping.yahoo.com/rdlw?merchantId=95276f3c-7b79-4c1e-803f-981cd9f7a968&amp;siteId=us-engadget&amp;pageId=1p-autolink&amp;featureId=text-link&amp;merchantName=B%26H+Photo&amp;custData=eyJzb3VyY2VOYW1lIjoiV2ViLURlc2t0b3AtVmVyaXpvbiIsImxhbmRpbmdVcmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5iaHBob3RvdmlkZW8uY29tL2MvcHJvZHVjdC8xNzYwODA2LVJFRy9zYW1zdW5nX2xzMzJjbTgwMXVueHphX204MGNfMzJfbW9uaXRvcl93YXJtLmh0bWwiLCJjb250ZW50VXVpZCI6IjY2ZjU2ODdhLWUxYmItNDU4Ni1hNjlmLWQwMTM3ZWExY2RiZSJ9&amp;signature=AQAAAYcUVUF4viw_m5HEISJ1AulplQP6GljhOVsWvmyi_XsS&amp;gcReferrer=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.bhphotovideo.com%2Fc%2Fproduct%2F1760806-REG%2Fsamsung_ls32cm801unxza_m80c_32_monitor_warm.html\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">B&amp;H</a> and <a data-i13n=\"elm:affiliate_link;sellerN:Samsung Electronics;elmt:;cpos:6;pos:1\" data-ylk=\"slk:Samsung.com;elm:affiliate_link;sellerN:Samsung Electronics;elmt:;cpos:6;pos:1;itc:0\" href=\"https://shopping.yahoo.com/rdlw?merchantId=f85e63cd-e13c-4f9d-991c-9fbaadede3ac&amp;siteId=us-engadget&amp;pageId=1p-autolink&amp;featureId=text-link&amp;merchantName=Samsung+Electronics&amp;custData=eyJzb3VyY2VOYW1lIjoiV2ViLURlc2t0b3AtVmVyaXpvbiIsImxhbmRpbmdVcmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5zYW1zdW5nLmNvbS91cy9jb21wdXRpbmcvbW9uaXRvcnMvc21hcnQtbW9uaXRvcnMvMzItbTgwYy1zbWFydC1tb25pdG9yLTRrLXVoZC13aXRoLXN0cmVhbWluZy10di11c2ItYy1lcmdvbm9taWMtc3RhbmQtYW5kLXNsaW1maXQtY2FtZXJhLWxzMzJjbTgwMXVueHphLyIsImNvbnRlbnRVdWlkIjoiNjZmNTY4N2EtZTFiYi00NTg2LWE2OWYtZDAxMzdlYTFjZGJlIn0&amp;signature=AQAAAWhhkh3RyVA6tgzsj-_A2oZPqnB35faQckPWAUWJd7Sw&amp;gcReferrer=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.samsung.com%2Fus%2Fcomputing%2Fmonitors%2Fsmart-monitors%2F32-m80c-smart-monitor-4k-uhd-with-streaming-tv-usb-c-ergonomic-stand-and-slimfit-camera-ls32cm801unxza%2F\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Samsung.com</a> have the monitor for $100 more (though you can also get it for $400 at Best Buy if you subscribe to the retailer\'s My Best Buy Plus service). This deal applies to the white colorway.</p><div><div><div><p><a data-ylk=\"sec:large-product;subsec:commlist;elmt:chooseForMe;pdid:Samsung Smart Monitor M80C (32-inch);pid:amazon_B0C3WMX69W;aid:amazon_B0C3WMX69W;itemcost:$700;itmId:$400;sellerN:Amazon;cpos:1;ll3:product-available;ll4:productoffer-manual;elm:affiliate_link;itc:0;slk:$400 at Amazon;pkgt:horizontal-img;pos:1\" href=\"https://shopping.yahoo.com/rdlw?merchantId=66ea567a-c987-4c2e-a2ff-02904efde6ea&amp;itemId=amazon_B0C3WMX69W&amp;siteId=us-engadget&amp;pageId=pnr-product-module&amp;featureId=product-url&amp;itemName=Samsung+Smart+Monitor+M80C+%2832-inch%29&amp;merchantName=Amazon&amp;itemSourceId=B0C3WMX69W&amp;brand=SAMSUNG&amp;price=699.99&amp;salePrice=499.99&amp;custData=eyJzb3VyY2VOYW1lIjoiV2ViLURlc2t0b3AtVmVyaXpvbiIsImxhbmRpbmdVcmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5hbWF6b24uY29tL1NBTVNVTkctQ29tcHV0ZXItU3RyZWFtaW5nLUluY2x1ZGVkLUxTMzJDTTgwMVVOWFpBL2RwL0IwQzNXTVg2OVcvP3RoPTEmdGFnPWdkZ3QwYy1wLW8tNHhzLTIwIiwiY29udGVudFV1aWQiOiI2NmY1Njg3YS1lMWJiLTQ1ODYtYTY5Zi1kMDEzN2VhMWNkYmUifQ&amp;signature=AQAAAaG4L7Kx8ihqwmqQk6sBMONp4coDcHnpA27s3ZegThsU\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"><img data-src=\"https://s.yimg.com/uu/api/res/1.2/l44XMsjplt5RA5AAaJ.h3Q--~B/Zmk9c3RyaW07aD03MjA7dz0xMjgwO2FwcGlkPXl0YWNoeW9u/https://s.yimg.com/os/creatr-uploaded-images/2023-11/1785b780-7d7c-11ee-bbbe-961666692b1b\" height=\"720\" width=\"1280\"></img></a></p><p>Samsung</p></div></div><div><p>This is an all-time low for the 32-inch version of Samsung\'s latest 4K \"smart monitor.\" Clip the $100 coupon to see the full discount at checkout.</p><p><a data-ylk=\"sec:large-product;subsec:commlist;elmt:chooseForMe;pdid:Samsung Smart Monitor M80C (32-inch);pid:amazon_B0C3WMX69W;aid:amazon_B0C3WMX69W;itemcost:$700;itmId:$400;sellerN:Amazon;cpos:1;ll3:product-available;ll4:productoffer-manual;elm:affiliate_link;itc:0;slk:$400 at Amazon;pkgt:horizontal-cta;pos:4\" href=\"https://shopping.yahoo.com/rdlw?merchantId=66ea567a-c987-4c2e-a2ff-02904efde6ea&amp;itemId=amazon_B0C3WMX69W&amp;siteId=us-engadget&amp;pageId=pnr-product-module&amp;featureId=product-url&amp;itemName=Samsung+Smart+Monitor+M80C+%2832-inch%29&amp;merchantName=Amazon&amp;itemSourceId=B0C3WMX69W&amp;brand=SAMSUNG&amp;price=699.99&amp;salePrice=499.99&amp;custData=eyJzb3VyY2VOYW1lIjoiV2ViLURlc2t0b3AtVmVyaXpvbiIsImxhbmRpbmdVcmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5hbWF6b24uY29tL1NBTVNVTkctQ29tcHV0ZXItU3RyZWFtaW5nLUluY2x1ZGVkLUxTMzJDTTgwMVVOWFpBL2RwL0IwQzNXTVg2OVcvP3RoPTEmdGFnPWdkZ3QwYy1wLW8tNHhzLTIwIiwiY29udGVudFV1aWQiOiI2NmY1Njg3YS1lMWJiLTQ1ODYtYTY5Zi1kMDEzN2VhMWNkYmUifQ&amp;signature=AQAAAaG4L7Kx8ihqwmqQk6sBMONp4coDcHnpA27s3ZegThsU\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\">$400 at Amazon</a></p></div></div><p>You\'d buy a Samsung Smart Monitor for its versatility first and foremost. The display comes with a remote and runs on Samsung\'s Tizen OS, the same as you\'d find on the company\'s smart TVs, so you can access streaming apps like Netflix, YouTube, Hulu and others without having to turn on your computer. You can also <a data-i13n=\"cpos:7;pos:1\" data-ylk=\"slk:stream cloud games;cpos:7;pos:1;elm:context_link;itc:0\" href=\"https://www.engadget.com/samsung-gaming-hub-game-pass-ultimate-i-dont-need-an-xbox-130051254.html\">stream cloud games</a> using the Xbox app and Nvidia GeForce Now or beam content directly from an iPhone via AirPlay. The Bixby and Alexa voice assistants are both built in and, since the monitor also works as a SmartThings hub, you can use it to control compatible smart home devices. There\'s a detachable webcam and two built-in speakers as well; neither is great, but they should work in a pinch. The whole thing is a relatively minor upgrade over <a data-i13n=\"cpos:8;pos:1\" data-ylk=\"slk:last year\'s M80B monitor;cpos:8;pos:1;elm:context_link;itc:0\" href=\"https://www.engadget.com/samsung-smart-monitor-m8-price-pre-order-104039969.html\">last year\'s M80B monitor</a>, though it now has a full-size HDMI port instead of micro-HDMI, plus two USB-A ports and a 65W USB-C port.</p><p>That said, this is still a \"jack of all trades, master of none\" situation. The 4K resolution keeps it sharp, but the M80C is limited to a basic 60Hz refresh rate and lacks <a data-i13n=\"cpos:9;pos:1\" data-ylk=\"slk:local dimming;cpos:9;pos:1;elm:context_link;itc:0\" href=\"https://www.engadget.com/2018-03-05-best-tv-settings.html\">local dimming</a>. It\'s also a VA panel, which gives the monitor decent contrast but means the image will wash out when viewed from an angle. Other <a data-i13n=\"cpos:10;pos:1\" data-ylk=\"slk:reviews suggest;cpos:10;pos:1;elm:context_link;itc:0\" href=\"https://www.rtings.com/monitor/reviews/samsung/smart-monitor-m8-m80c-s32cm80\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">reviews suggest</a> that the M80C <a data-i13n=\"cpos:11;pos:1\" data-ylk=\"slk:can get;cpos:11;pos:1;elm:context_link;itc:0\" href=\"https://www.trustedreviews.com/reviews/samsung-m8-smart-monitor-2023\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">can get</a> decently bright, though you shouldn\'t expect an especially vibrant picture with HDR content. And while the monitor itself looks clean and supports basic adjustments, this discounted model isn\'t VESA-mountable.</p><p>All of this means the M80C is a bit of a niche device. If you don\'t care about its bonus features, you can find better values in our guides to <a data-i13n=\"cpos:12;pos:1\" data-ylk=\"slk:the best monitors;cpos:12;pos:1;elm:context_link;itc:0\" href=\"https://www.engadget.com/how-to-buy-a-monitor-143000069.html\">the best monitors</a> and <a data-i13n=\"cpos:13;pos:1\" data-ylk=\"slk:gaming monitors;cpos:13;pos:1;elm:context_link;itc:0\" href=\"https://www.engadget.com/best-gaming-monitor-140008940.html\">gaming monitors</a>. You can replicate many of those extra perks directly from a PC, after all. But if you want a monitor that doubles as a small TV for your home office, it should be a decent value at this price.</p><p><strong><em>Your Black Friday Shopping Guide:</em></strong><em> See all of </em><a data-i13n=\"cpos:14;pos:1\" data-ylk=\"slk:Yahoo’s Black Friday coverage, here.;cpos:14;pos:1;elm:context_link;itc:0\" href=\"https://www.yahoo.com/topics/black-friday/\"><em>Yahoo’s Black Friday coverage, here.</em></a><em> Follow Engadget for </em><a data-i13n=\"cpos:15;pos:1\" data-ylk=\"slk:Black Friday tech deals;cpos:15;pos:1;elm:context_link;itc:0\" href=\"https://www.engadget.com/black-friday/\"><em>Black Friday tech deals</em></a><em>. Learn about </em><a data-i13n=\"cpos:16;pos:1\" data-ylk=\"slk:Black Friday trends;cpos:16;pos:1;elm:context_link;itc:0\" href=\"https://www.intheknow.com/tag/black-friday/\"><em>Black Friday trends</em></a><em> on In The Know. Hear from Autoblog’s experts on the best </em><a data-i13n=\"cpos:17;pos:1\" data-ylk=\"slk:Black Friday deals for your car, garage, and home;cpos:17;pos:1;elm:context_link;itc:0\" href=\"https://www.autoblog.com/black-friday/\"><em>Black Friday deals for your car, garage, and home</em></a><em>, and find </em><a data-i13n=\"cpos:18;pos:1\" data-ylk=\"slk:Black Friday sales;cpos:18;pos:1;elm:context_link;itc:0\" href=\"https://www.aol.com/shopping/gifting\"><em>Black Friday sales</em></a><em> to shop on AOL, handpicked just for you.</em></p></div>', 'Samsung\'s Smart Monitor M80C is one of the more unique monitors on the market, as it blends a 4K display for your computer with the features of a small smart TV and smart home hub. We\'ve seen this latest model in the Smart Monitor series go on sale a few time…', 'https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/7RobS0.nzLvHIwtXT_BhXA--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyMDA7aD03MjA-/https://s.yimg.com/os/creatr-uploaded-images/2023-11/cb7dc210-7d7b-11ee-bff7-a9c0cdd61602', '175', NULL, NULL, '', 'newsapi', NULL, NULL, '2023-11-14', '248', '0', '0', NULL, NULL, NULL),
(616, 'Google creates a brand new hub for shopping deals', '<div><div><p><a data-ylk=\"elm:author;slk:Sarah Fielding;itc:0\" href=\"https://www.engadget.com/about/editors/sarah-fielding-01/\"><img alt=\"Sarah Fielding\" data-src=\"https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/CgH1XosbzgUdhuX3AFKvjw--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTgwO2g9ODA-/https://o.aolcdn.com/images/dims?image_uri=https%3A%2F%2Fo.aolcdn.com%2Fimages%2Fdims%3Fimage_uri%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Fs.yimg.com%252Fos%252Fcreatr-uploaded-images%252F2023-03%252F05295d70-bd25-11ed-beff-9aa9fea26df1%26compress%3D1%26progressive%3D1%26quality%3D75%26client%3Dhawkeye%26signature%3D2f850ca5cd9ee04a54a51211a12b8b8067963bba&amp;compress=1&amp;progressive=1&amp;quality=75&amp;client=hawkeye&amp;signature=7adb5ebac303551a3f2b76b6a955c5848b324c5a\" src=\"https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/CgH1XosbzgUdhuX3AFKvjw--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTgwO2g9ODA-/https://o.aolcdn.com/images/dims?image_uri=https%3A%2F%2Fo.aolcdn.com%2Fimages%2Fdims%3Fimage_uri%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Fs.yimg.com%252Fos%252Fcreatr-uploaded-images%252F2023-03%252F05295d70-bd25-11ed-beff-9aa9fea26df1%26compress%3D1%26progressive%3D1%26quality%3D75%26client%3Dhawkeye%26signature%3D2f850ca5cd9ee04a54a51211a12b8b8067963bba&amp;compress=1&amp;progressive=1&amp;quality=75&amp;client=hawkeye&amp;signature=7adb5ebac303551a3f2b76b6a955c5848b324c5a\"></img></a></p></div></div><div><p>The holiday season might be the most wonderful time of the year, but it\'s arguably also the most expensive. Ahead of the mad dash to find the <a data-i13n=\"cpos:1;pos:1\" data-ylk=\"slk:best presents for the lowest prices;cpos:1;pos:1;elm:context_link;itc:0\" href=\"https://www.engadget.com/best-gifts-under-50-holiday-stocking-stuffers-130049028.html\">best presents for the lowest prices</a>, Google is attempting to undo some of that financial load with the launch of its new deals hub. Now, if you type in \"shop deals\" on Google, the search engine will bring you to a page filled with markdowns on categories like electronics and apparel.</p><p>If you\'re looking for a specific type of item, you can Google something like \"<a data-i13n=\"cpos:2;pos:1\" data-ylk=\"slk:shop headphone deals;cpos:2;pos:1;elm:context_link;itc:0\" href=\"https://www.engadget.com/best-amazon-prime-day-headphone-deals-104130119.html\">shop headphone deals</a>\" and see promotions for that product. Displayed items should come from a range of sources, including big box stores, luxury brands, and local shops. Google will also show items based on what you\'ve browsed for in the past while signed into your account. Plus, if you\'ve looked at a certain shirt or a watch, for instance, it might appear in your \"resume browsing\" card alongside any current promotions on it.</p><p>Google is also coming for extensions like <a data-i13n=\"cpos:3;pos:1\" data-ylk=\"slk:Honey;cpos:3;pos:1;elm:context_link;itc:0\" href=\"https://www.engadget.com/paypal-rewards-program-honey-141053902.html\">Honey</a> and Capital One Shopping, with a new discount tag icon right in the Chrome address bar. Click on the button, and, just like with the others, you\'ll get a list of coupon codes for the site you\'re currently shopping on.</p><p>Plus, Google is providing more tracking information to monitor whether a price is above average — or has recently dropped. Participating sites will have a \"shopping insights\" label in the address bar that you can click on to view an item\'s 90-day price history. This chart could give you an idea of whether the item goes on sale frequently or if its sticker price has dropped recently. You can also click the bell icon on Search for mobile to receive push and email notifications when a product goes on sale. Bookmark the item instead if you\'re shopping on Chrome from your computer.</p></div>', 'The holiday season might be the most wonderful time of the year, but it\'s arguably also the most expensive. Ahead of the mad dash to find the best presents for the lowest prices, Google is attempting to undo some of that financial load with the launch of its …', 'https://s.yimg.com/os/creatr-uploaded-images/2023-11/8e21b880-7d59-11ee-9fcb-0894ef24f561', '175', NULL, NULL, '', 'newsapi', NULL, NULL, '2023-11-14', '248', '0', '0', NULL, NULL, NULL),
(617, 'Qualcomm reveals its making a RISC-V chip for Android wearables', '<div><div><p><a data-ylk=\"elm:author;slk:Mariella Moon;itc:0\" href=\"https://www.engadget.com/about/editors/mariella-moon/\"><img alt=\"Mariella Moon\" data-src=\"https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/Q5xM8QRkc.8IiJSGgzI_ew--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTgwO2g9ODA-/https://o.aolcdn.com/images/dims?image_uri=https%3A%2F%2Fo.aolcdn.com%2Fimages%2Fdims%3Fimage_uri%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Fs.blogcdn.com%252Fwww.engadget.com%252Fmedia%252F2017%252F04%252Fprofile-picture.jpg%26compress%3D1%26progressive%3D1%26quality%3D75%26client%3Dhawkeye%26signature%3D080b8c74bc2e0113b04ff3b4d56e855ff565fd24&amp;compress=1&amp;progressive=1&amp;quality=75&amp;client=hawkeye&amp;signature=199c0288bb447e9b8a42ee9c535e057d3cc5b29a\" src=\"https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/Q5xM8QRkc.8IiJSGgzI_ew--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTgwO2g9ODA-/https://o.aolcdn.com/images/dims?image_uri=https%3A%2F%2Fo.aolcdn.com%2Fimages%2Fdims%3Fimage_uri%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Fs.blogcdn.com%252Fwww.engadget.com%252Fmedia%252F2017%252F04%252Fprofile-picture.jpg%26compress%3D1%26progressive%3D1%26quality%3D75%26client%3Dhawkeye%26signature%3D080b8c74bc2e0113b04ff3b4d56e855ff565fd24&amp;compress=1&amp;progressive=1&amp;quality=75&amp;client=hawkeye&amp;signature=199c0288bb447e9b8a42ee9c535e057d3cc5b29a\"></img></a></p></div></div><div><p>Qualcomm is working with Google to develop a <a data-i13n=\"cpos:1;pos:1\" data-ylk=\"slk:RISC-V;cpos:1;pos:1;elm:context_link;itc:0\" href=\"https://www.engadget.com/risc-v-upscaled-120000950.html\">RISC-V</a> platform that can power Wear OS devices. RISC-V is an open standard instruction set architecture (ISA), which Arm <a data-i13n=\"cpos:2;pos:1\" data-ylk=\"slk:describes;cpos:2;pos:1;elm:context_link;itc:0\" href=\"https://www.arm.com/glossary/isa#:~:text=An%20Instruction%20Set%20Architecture%20(ISA,as%20how%20it%20gets%20done.\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">describes</a> as \"part of the abstract model of a computer that defines how the CPU is controlled by the software.\" Since it\'s open standard, it could lead to open-source chip designs and could lower the costs for companies that want to build their own chips. That means more companies entering the industry and more devices on the market, which could foster innovation and give rise to more affordable options.</p><p>Google came out in support of RISC-V earlier this year in hopes that it could compete on equal footing with Arm one day. However, the technology still has a long way to go to reach that status. According to <a data-i13n=\"cpos:3;pos:1\" data-ylk=\"slk:Ars Technica;cpos:3;pos:1;elm:context_link;itc:0\" href=\"https://arstechnica.com/gadgets/2023/10/qualcomm-announces-first-ever-mass-market-risc-v-android-soc/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\"><em>Ars Technica</em></a>, Qualcomm\'s could be the first mass-market RISC-V Android chip ever, if all goes according to plan. As the publication notes, a RISC-V platform represents a big threat to Arm, whose CPU architecture dominates the smartphone industry. Things had been pretty unsteady for Arm over the past couple of years, with its parent company Softbank trying to sell it to NVIDIA until regulators stepped in and <a data-i13n=\"cpos:4;pos:1\" data-ylk=\"slk:prevented the acquisition;cpos:4;pos:1;elm:context_link;itc:0\" href=\"https://www.engadget.com/nvidia-reportedly-abandoned-arm-acquisition-071743886.html\">prevented the acquisition</a> from happening. The company ended up <a data-i13n=\"cpos:5;pos:1\" data-ylk=\"slk:registering;cpos:5;pos:1;elm:context_link;itc:0\" href=\"https://www.engadget.com/arm-registers-for-us-initial-public-offering-201942271.html?_fsig=ID7J2_2uVFsvWsxnuahPwg--%7EA\">registering</a> for a US IPO instead and <a data-i13n=\"cpos:6;pos:1\" data-ylk=\"slk:raised;cpos:6;pos:1;elm:context_link;itc:0\" href=\"https://www.nytimes.com/2023/09/13/business/arm-ipo-pricing.html\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">raised</a> $4.87 billion in September.</p><p>In its announcement, the chipmaker said its RISC-V Snapdragon Wear platform will power the next generation of Wear OS devices. It\'s planning to commercialize the technology for wearable products meant for global release, but it doesn\'t have a launch date yet. Qualcomm said it has already started the new chip\'s development and will be sharing more information about its timeline at a later date.</p></div>', 'Qualcomm is working with Google to develop a RISC-V platform that can power Wear OS devices. RISC-V is an open standard instruction set architecture (ISA), which Arm describes as \"part of the abstract model of a computer that defines how the CPU is controlled…', 'https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/8gKFStL0R_uuQ0fbj4nrIw--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyMDA7aD04MzQ-/https://s.yimg.com/os/creatr-uploaded-images/2023-08/345e9340-31e1-11ee-bdff-f26414cd25dd', '175', NULL, NULL, '', 'newsapi', NULL, NULL, '2023-11-14', '248', '0', '0', NULL, NULL, NULL),
(618, 'NYU is developing 3D streaming video tech with the help of its dance department', '<div><div><p><a data-ylk=\"elm:author;slk:Will Shanklin;itc:0\" href=\"https://www.engadget.com/about/editors/will-shanklin-1/\"><img alt=\"Will Shanklin\" data-src=\"https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/ZM51UtElvE3frM6m39y.JQ--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTgwO2g9ODA-/https://s.yimg.com/os/creatr-uploaded-images/2023-11/7077b740-7a6a-11ee-bd7c-201615342a39\" src=\"https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/ZM51UtElvE3frM6m39y.JQ--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTgwO2g9ODA-/https://s.yimg.com/os/creatr-uploaded-images/2023-11/7077b740-7a6a-11ee-bd7c-201615342a39\"></img></a></p></div></div><div><p>NYU is <a data-i13n=\"elm:context_link;elmt:doNotAffiliate;cpos:1;pos:1\" data-ylk=\"slk:launching a project;elm:context_link;elmt:doNotAffiliate;cpos:1;pos:1;itc:0\" href=\"https://engineering.nyu.edu/news/nyu-tandon-cuts-rug-new-3d-video-technology\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">launching a project</a> to spur the development of immersive 3D video for dance education — and perhaps other areas. Boosted by a $1.2 million four-year grant from the National Science Foundation, the undertaking will try to make Point-Cloud Video (PCV) tech viable for streaming.</p><p>A point cloud is a set of data points in a 3D space representing the surface of a subject or environment. NYU says Point-Cloud Video, which strings together point-cloud frames into a moving scene, has been under development for the last decade. However, it’s typically too data-intensive for practical purposes, requiring bandwidth far beyond the capabilities of today’s connected devices.</p><p>The researchers plan to address those obstacles by “reducing bandwidth consumption and delivery latency, and increasing power consumption efficiency so that PCVs can be streamed far more easily,â€ according to an NYU Engineering blog post published Monday. Project leader Yong Liu, an NYU electrical and computer engineering professor, believes modern breakthroughs make that possible. “With recent advances in the key enabling technologies, we are now at the verge of completing the puzzle of teleporting holograms of real-world humans, creatures and objects through the global Internet,â€ Liu wrote on Monday.</p><p><a data-i13n=\"cpos:2;pos:1\" data-ylk=\"slk:ChatGPT;cpos:2;pos:1;elm:context_link;itc:0\" href=\"https://www.engadget.com/chatgpt-is-suddenly-everywhere-are-we-ready-180031821.html\">ChatGPT</a> maker OpenAI <a data-i13n=\"cpos:3;pos:1\" data-ylk=\"slk:launched a model;cpos:3;pos:1;elm:context_link;itc:0\" href=\"https://www.engadget.com/openai-releases-point-e-dall-e-3d-text-modeling-210007892.html\">launched a model</a> last year that can create 3D point clouds from text prompts. Engadget reached out to the project leader to clarify whether it or other <a data-i13n=\"cpos:4;pos:1\" data-ylk=\"slk:generative AI;cpos:4;pos:1;elm:context_link;itc:0\" href=\"https://www.engadget.com/tag/generative-ai/\">generative AI</a> tools are part of the process, and we’ll update this article if we hear back.</p><p>The team will test the technology with the NYU Tisch School of the Arts and the Mark Morris Dance Group’s Dance Center. Dancers from both organizations will perform on a volumetric capture stage. The team will stream their movements live and on-demand, offering educational content for aspiring dancers looking to study from high-level performers — and allowing engineers to test and tweak their PCV technology.</p><p>The researchers envision the work opening doors to more advanced <a data-i13n=\"cpos:5;pos:1\" data-ylk=\"slk:VR;cpos:5;pos:1;elm:context_link;itc:0\" href=\"https://www.engadget.com/meta-quest-3-review-mixed-reality-vr-150009788.html\">VR</a> and <a data-i13n=\"cpos:6;pos:1\" data-ylk=\"slk:mixed reality;cpos:6;pos:1;elm:context_link;itc:0\" href=\"https://www.engadget.com/apple-vision-pro-hands-on-a-new-milestone-for-mixed-reality-060943291.html\">mixed reality</a> streaming content. “The success of the proposed research will contribute towards wide deployment of high quality and robust PCV streaming systems that facilitate immersive augmented, virtual and mixed reality experience and create new opportunities in many domains, including education, business, healthcare and entertainment,â€ Liu said.</p><p>“Point-Cloud Video holds tremendous potential to transform a range of industries, and I’m excited that the research team at NYU Tandon prioritized dance education to reap those benefits early,â€ said Jelena KovaÄević, NYU Tandon Dean.</p></div>', 'NYU is launching a project to spur the development of immersive 3D video for dance education — and perhaps other areas. Boosted by a $1.2 million four-year grant from the National Science Foundation, the undertaking will try to make Point-Cloud Video (PCV) te…', 'https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/dZPTMHBkqy1i9MYId6mwkQ--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyMDA7aD02NzU-/https://s.yimg.com/os/creatr-uploaded-images/2023-10/870afab0-7765-11ee-bcec-2b3b0d505156', '175', NULL, NULL, '', 'newsapi', NULL, NULL, '2023-11-14', '248', '0', '0', NULL, NULL, NULL);
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(619, 'NVIDIA may soon announce new AI chips for China to get around US export restrictions', '<div><div><p><a data-ylk=\"elm:author;slk:Mariella Moon;itc:0\" href=\"https://www.engadget.com/about/editors/mariella-moon/\"><img alt=\"Mariella Moon\" data-src=\"https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/Q5xM8QRkc.8IiJSGgzI_ew--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTgwO2g9ODA-/https://o.aolcdn.com/images/dims?image_uri=https%3A%2F%2Fo.aolcdn.com%2Fimages%2Fdims%3Fimage_uri%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Fs.blogcdn.com%252Fwww.engadget.com%252Fmedia%252F2017%252F04%252Fprofile-picture.jpg%26compress%3D1%26progressive%3D1%26quality%3D75%26client%3Dhawkeye%26signature%3D080b8c74bc2e0113b04ff3b4d56e855ff565fd24&amp;compress=1&amp;progressive=1&amp;quality=75&amp;client=hawkeye&amp;signature=199c0288bb447e9b8a42ee9c535e057d3cc5b29a\" src=\"https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/Q5xM8QRkc.8IiJSGgzI_ew--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTgwO2g9ODA-/https://o.aolcdn.com/images/dims?image_uri=https%3A%2F%2Fo.aolcdn.com%2Fimages%2Fdims%3Fimage_uri%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Fs.blogcdn.com%252Fwww.engadget.com%252Fmedia%252F2017%252F04%252Fprofile-picture.jpg%26compress%3D1%26progressive%3D1%26quality%3D75%26client%3Dhawkeye%26signature%3D080b8c74bc2e0113b04ff3b4d56e855ff565fd24&amp;compress=1&amp;progressive=1&amp;quality=75&amp;client=hawkeye&amp;signature=199c0288bb447e9b8a42ee9c535e057d3cc5b29a\"></img></a></p></div></div><div><p>NVIDIA really, really doesn\'t want to lose access to China\'s massive AI chip market. The company is developing three new AI chips especially for China that don\'t run afoul of the latest export restrictions in the US, according to <a data-i13n=\"elm:context_link;elmt:doNotAffiliate;cpos:1;pos:1\" data-ylk=\"slk:The Wall Street Journal;elm:context_link;elmt:doNotAffiliate;cpos:1;pos:1;itc:0\" href=\"https://www.wsj.com/tech/nvidia-develops-new-ai-chips-again-to-keep-selling-to-china-d6977a03?st=b9nqhs4y78r65k2&amp;mod=googlenewsfeed\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\"><em>The Wall Street Journal</em></a> and <a data-i13n=\"elm:context_link;elmt:doNotAffiliate;cpos:2;pos:1\" data-ylk=\"slk:Reuters;elm:context_link;elmt:doNotAffiliate;cpos:2;pos:1;itc:0\" href=\"https://www.reuters.com/technology/nvidia-plans-release-three-new-chips-china-local-media-2023-11-09/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\"><em>Reuters</em></a>. Last year, the US government <a data-i13n=\"cpos:3;pos:1\" data-ylk=\"slk:notified the chipmaker;cpos:3;pos:1;elm:context_link;itc:0\" href=\"https://www.engadget.com/nvidia-government-rule-restricting-export-ai-chips-china-russia-061846437.html?_fsig=z2L0ZlSgS6oqhw9luRLNZQ--%7EA\">notified the chipmaker</a> that it would restrict the export of computer chips meant for supercomputers and artificial intelligence applications to Russia and China due to concerns that the components could be used for military purposes. That rule prevented NVIDIA from selling certain A100 and H100 chips in the country, so it designed the A800 and H800 chips specifically for the Chinese market.</p><p>However, the US government recently issued an updated set of restrictions that puts a limit on how much computing power a chip can have when it\'s meant for export to the aforementioned countries. The A800 and the H800 are no longer eligible for export under the new rules, along with NVIDIA\'s other products, which <a data-i13n=\"cpos:4;pos:1\" data-ylk=\"slk:include;cpos:4;pos:1;elm:context_link;itc:0\" href=\"https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2023-11-09/nvidia-to-release-three-new-ai-chips-for-china-report-says?sref=10lNAhZ9\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">include</a> its top-of-the-line <a data-i13n=\"cpos:5;pos:1\" data-ylk=\"slk:RTX 4090;cpos:5;pos:1;elm:context_link;itc:0\" href=\"https://www.engadget.com/nvidia-rtx-4090-review-gpu-unholy-amounts-power-130020430.html\">RTX 4090</a> consumer GPU. Some <a data-i13n=\"cpos:6;pos:1\" data-ylk=\"slk:reports even suggest;cpos:6;pos:1;elm:context_link;itc:0\" href=\"https://fortune.com/2023/11/01/nvidia-shares-fall-report-us-export-rules-cancel-5-billion-advanced-chip-orders-china/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">reports even suggest</a> that the company could end up canceling over $5 billion worth of advanced chip orders in China.</p><p>The new chips meant for the Chinese market are called the HGX H20, the L20 and the L2, based on the specs sent to distributors. While the H20 is supposed to be the most powerful model out of the three, all of them don\'t go beyond the computing power threshold set by the US government\'s new export rules. That means customers using them for AI applications may need more chips than they would if they had access to higher-spec models.</p><p>Chinese companies, including Baidu, Huawei, Xiaomi and Oppo, have already started <a data-i13n=\"cpos:7;pos:1\" data-ylk=\"slk:designing their own semiconductor;cpos:7;pos:1;elm:context_link;itc:0\" href=\"https://www.protocol.com/china/chinese-companies-make-own-semiconductors\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">designing their own semiconductor</a> to prepare for a possible future wherein they could longer be able to import chips from the US and <a data-i13n=\"cpos:8;pos:1\" data-ylk=\"slk:other countries;cpos:8;pos:1;elm:context_link;itc:0\" href=\"https://www.engadget.com/us-netherlands-and-japan-reportedly-agree-to-limit-chinas-access-to-chipmaking-equipment-174204303.html?_fsig=6vBTho.1YW4we5SVfhB7GQ--%7EA\">other countries</a>. Old NVIDIA customers may prefer sticking to the company\'s components, however, due to its reputation and its software, which <em>The Journal </em>says is some of the most robust for AI development. NVIDIA, according to the source, may announce the new chips as soon as November 16 and start selling them before the year ends.</p></div>', 'NVIDIA really, really doesn\'t want to lose access to China\'s massive AI chip market. The company is developing three new AI chips especially for China that don\'t run afoul of the latest export restrictions in the US, according to The Wall Street Journal and R…', 'https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/NwUi9R0rZnqf366BeUMGxg--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyMDA7aD04MDA-/https://s.yimg.com/os/creatr-uploaded-images/2023-02/39978970-b388-11ed-bbdf-68ca8f4d4131', '175', NULL, NULL, '', 'newsapi', NULL, NULL, '2023-11-14', '248', '0', '0', NULL, NULL, NULL),
(620, 'NordVPN plans are nearly 70 percent off ahead of Black Friday', '<div><div><p><a data-ylk=\"elm:author;slk:Lawrence Bonk;itc:0\" href=\"https://www.engadget.com/about/editors/lawrence-bonk-01/\"><img alt=\"Lawrence Bonk\" data-src=\"https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/TcQCYKuJU_9Vi2dogRUGcg--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTgwO2g9ODA-/https://o.aolcdn.com/images/dims?image_uri=https%3A%2F%2Fs.yimg.com%2Fos%2Fcreatr-uploaded-images%2F2023-04%2Fbe2dabc0-dee3-11ed-af74-cc21123945d3&amp;compress=1&amp;progressive=1&amp;quality=75&amp;client=hawkeye&amp;signature=b1b4a88b5678acf357d4ca80e15ee9cff64e9455\" src=\"https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/TcQCYKuJU_9Vi2dogRUGcg--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTgwO2g9ODA-/https://o.aolcdn.com/images/dims?image_uri=https%3A%2F%2Fs.yimg.com%2Fos%2Fcreatr-uploaded-images%2F2023-04%2Fbe2dabc0-dee3-11ed-af74-cc21123945d3&amp;compress=1&amp;progressive=1&amp;quality=75&amp;client=hawkeye&amp;signature=b1b4a88b5678acf357d4ca80e15ee9cff64e9455\"></img></a></p></div></div><div><p>Virtual private networks (VPNs) have become an essential tool for many web surfers, for a wide variety of reasons, and one of the most popular services is offering a great deal to entice new customers. NordVPN is selling two-year subscription plans for up to 69 percent off, depending on which tier you choose. You also get three free months of service when you sign up, which is always a nice bonus. This is actually a slightly better deal than <a data-i13n=\"cpos:1;pos:1\" data-ylk=\"slk:last month’s 68 percent discount;cpos:1;pos:1;elm:context_link;itc:0\" href=\"https://www.engadget.com/good-deal-nordvpn-two-year-plans-are-up-to-68-percent-off-right-now-154504370.html\">last month’s 68 percent discount</a> on two-year subscription plans.</p><div><div><div><p><a data-ylk=\"sec:large-product;subsec:commlist;elmt:chooseForMe;pdid:NordVPN Complete Plan;pid:manual_9010c35f-0e81-4069-94dc-504026e528ab_1697650700896;aid:manual_9010c35f-0e81-4069-94dc-504026e528ab_1697650700896;itemcost:$448;itmId:$135;sellerN:NordVPN;cpos:1;ll3:product-available;ll4:productoffer-manual;elm:affiliate_link;itc:0;slk:$135 at NordVPN;pkgt:horizontal-img;pos:1\" href=\"https://shopping.yahoo.com/rdlw?siteId=us-engadget&amp;pageId=pnr-product-module&amp;featureId=manual-entry&amp;itemName=NordVPN+Complete+Plan&amp;merchantName=NordVPN&amp;brand=NordVPN&amp;price=448.0&amp;salePrice=135.0&amp;custData=eyJzb3VyY2VOYW1lIjoiV2ViLURlc2t0b3AtVmVyaXpvbiIsImxhbmRpbmdVcmwiOiJodHRwczovL25vcmR2cG4uY29tLyIsImNvbnRlbnRVdWlkIjoiOTAxMGMzNWYtMGU4MS00MDY5LTk0ZGMtNTA0MDI2ZTUyOGFiIn0&amp;signature=AQAAAUcN3aDcJkubzYwud4sAtf84Rp-fs-2ecsqqTMqSWfqj\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"><img data-src=\"https://s.yimg.com/uu/api/res/1.2/k4DfIRxXfLgigjVM9sZhCA--~B/aD01ODk7dz0xMDQ5O2FwcGlkPXl0YWNoeW9u/https://s.yimg.com/os/creatr-uploaded-images/2023-10/19b49890-6ddd-11ee-b76d-1b65ec882fbd\" height=\"589\" width=\"1049\"></img></a></p><p>NordVPN</p></div></div></div><p>Here’s how it all breaks down. The company’s flagship Complete plan is 69 percent off when you buy into two years of service, totaling $5 per month or $135. The Plus plan is 62 percent off, coming in at $4 per month or $108 for two years. The Standard plan is likely the best option for average consumers, offering a secure VPN, tracker blockers, ad blockers and malware protection. This plan is 63 percent off, totaling $3 per month or $80 for the whole shebang. Each and every one of these deals includes three free months of service, totaling 27 months. The one-year plans are also discounted and come with the same three free months of use.</p><p>There are even discounts for the company’s proprietary password management software, NordPass. Two-year Premium plans are 58 percent off and also offer three free months upon signing up. Enterprise users actually get six free months to try everything out.</p><p>We have praised NordVPN’s feature set and general ease-of-use, but <a data-i13n=\"cpos:2;pos:1\" data-ylk=\"slk:balked at the original price tag.;cpos:2;pos:1;elm:context_link;itc:0\" href=\"https://www.engadget.com/nordvpn-review-a-bit-too-overhyped-for-the-price-163100341.html\">balked at the original price tag.</a> As a matter of fact, the cost was a primary reason why Nord’s offering narrowly missed our <a data-i13n=\"cpos:3;pos:1\" data-ylk=\"slk:list of the best VPNs.;cpos:3;pos:1;elm:context_link;itc:0\" href=\"https://www.engadget.com/best-vpn-130004396.html\">list of the best VPNs.</a> So these discounts go a long way to making this an extremely attractive option for those looking for a speedy and useful virtual private network.</p><p>It’s worth noting that all of these plans are being advertised as Black Friday discounts, but you can actually make use of the sale beginning today. It all ends on November 29, so set a calendar reminder if you want some time to think things over.</p><p>If you aren’t even sure what VPNs are for, they are actually quite useful for those who <a data-i13n=\"cpos:4;pos:1\" data-ylk=\"slk:spend a lot of time;cpos:4;pos:1;elm:context_link;itc:0\" href=\"https://www.engadget.com/2016-09-19-three-reasons-using-a-vpn-will-benefit-you.html\">spend a lot of time</a> on ye olde internet. These services are nearly-mandatory when accessing public Wi-Fi, as they prevent cyber criminals from accessing your computer. The software also blocks malicious sites, protects sensitive data and lets you skirt geo-restrictions when surfing.</p><p><em>Follow </em><a data-i13n=\"cpos:5;pos:1\" data-ylk=\"slk:@EngadgetDeals;cpos:5;pos:1;elm:context_link;itc:0\" href=\"https://twitter.com/EngadgetDeals\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\"><em>@EngadgetDeals</em></a><em> on Twitter and </em><a data-i13n=\"cpos:6;pos:1\" data-ylk=\"slk:subscribe to the Engadget Deals newsletter;cpos:6;pos:1;elm:context_link;itc:0\" href=\"https://subscription.yahoo.net/Newsletter/Preference/sub?b=engadgetdeals&amp;src\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\"><em>subscribe to the Engadget Deals newsletter</em></a><em> for the latest tech deals and buying advice.</em></p></div>', 'Virtual private networks (VPNs) have become an essential tool for many web surfers, for a wide variety of reasons, and one of the most popular services is offering a great deal to entice new customers. NordVPN is selling two-year subscription plans for up to …', 'https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/xVBadCcXjn3wAyVak1WidA--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyMDA7aD04MDg-/https://s.yimg.com/os/creatr-uploaded-images/2023-10/e75f4530-6ddb-11ee-a0f5-f7288d26658f', '175', NULL, NULL, '', 'newsapi', NULL, NULL, '2023-11-14', '248', '0', '0', NULL, NULL, NULL),
(621, 'The Morning After: Is the M3 iMac worth it?', '<div><div><p><a data-ylk=\"elm:author;slk:Daniel Cooper;itc:0\" href=\"https://www.engadget.com/about/editors/daniel-cooper/\"><img alt=\"Daniel Cooper\" data-src=\"https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/dNvrmUTSbIIGU53EyyUmxA--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTgwO2g9ODA-/https://s.yimg.com/os/creatr-uploaded-images/2023-11/53c59e20-823d-11ee-9f7e-ac80727f4dd2\" src=\"https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/dNvrmUTSbIIGU53EyyUmxA--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTgwO2g9ODA-/https://s.yimg.com/os/creatr-uploaded-images/2023-11/53c59e20-823d-11ee-9f7e-ac80727f4dd2\"></img></a></p></div></div><div><p>Unlike many of my peers, I prefer desktops to laptops, so I’m always excited when a new iMac rolls off the production line. I’ve had my eye on one for a while, especially now it’s packing an<a data-i13n=\"cpos:1;pos:1\" data-ylk=\"slk:M3 chip;cpos:1;pos:1;elm:context_link;itc:0\" href=\"https://www.engadget.com/apples-m3-chips-pro-max-003004080.html\"> M3 chip</a> with all the power that promises. Sadly for me and other desktop lovers,<a data-i13n=\"cpos:2;pos:1\" data-ylk=\"slk:while Nathan Ingraham’s got plenty of compliments for the new iMac;cpos:2;pos:1;elm:context_link;itc:0\" href=\"https://www.engadget.com/apple-imac-review-2023-nothings-changed-except-the-m3-013032286.html\"> while Nathan Ingraham’s got plenty of compliments for the new iMac</a>, it’s not all great.</p><p>On one hand, he praises the power of the M3, the elegant and clutter-free design and the ease of portability. But that’s paired with the feeling the base model has been hobbled to force users into spending more than they expected. Apple’s always stingy with RAM, but that feeling of being nickel-and-dimed extends to paying more for TouchID, gigabit ethernet and more USB ports.</p><p>It’s indicative of the iMac’s price and how it’s positioned that Nathan’s conclusion is to buy a Mac Mini and external display instead. You might lose the clutter-free environment on your desk, but you’ll get significantly more computer for the same amount of cash.</p><p>— Dan Cooper</p><p>​​<em>You can get these reports delivered daily direct to your inbox. </em><a data-i13n=\"cpos:3;pos:1\" data-ylk=\"slk:Subscribe right here!;cpos:3;pos:1;elm:context_link;itc:0\" href=\"https://www.engadget.com/about/newsletter/\"><em>Subscribe right here!</em></a>​​</p><h3>The biggest stories you might have missed</h3><p><a data-i13n=\"cpos:4;pos:1\" data-ylk=\"slk:Terminator is back with a new anime series coming to Netflix;cpos:4;pos:1;elm:context_link;itc:0\" href=\"https://www.engadget.com/terminator-is-back-with-a-new-anime-series-coming-to-netflix-154925265.html\">Terminator is back with a new anime series coming to Netflix</a></p><p><a data-i13n=\"cpos:5;pos:1\" data-ylk=\"slk:SpaceX workers face above-average injury rates as Musk prioritizes Mars over safety, report finds;cpos:5;pos:1;elm:context_link;itc:0\" href=\"https://www.engadget.com/spacex-workers-face-above-average-injury-rates-as-musk-prioritizes-mars-over-safety-report-finds-224235095.html\">SpaceX workers face above-average injury rates as Musk prioritizes Mars over safety, report finds</a></p><p><a data-i13n=\"cpos:6;pos:1\" data-ylk=\"slk:Netflix is bringing Hades, Braid and Death’s Door to mobile devices;cpos:6;pos:1;elm:context_link;itc:0\" href=\"https://www.engadget.com/netflix-is-bringing-hades-braid-and-deaths-door-to-mobile-devices-214008933.html\">Netflix is bringing Hades, Braid and Death’s Door to mobile devices</a></p><p><a data-i13n=\"cpos:7;pos:1\" data-ylk=\"slk:SAG-AFTRA deal includes a $40 million streaming bonus and AI protections;cpos:7;pos:1;elm:context_link;itc:0\" href=\"https://www.engadget.com/sag-aftra-deal-includes-a-40-million-streaming-bonus-and-ai-protections-204526458.html\">SAG-AFTRA deal includes a $40 million streaming bonus and AI protections</a></p><p><a data-i13n=\"cpos:8;pos:1\" data-ylk=\"slk:Dbrand’s artisan keycaps are here to curse you out and stab you;cpos:8;pos:1;elm:context_link;itc:0\" href=\"https://www.engadget.com/dbrands-artisan-keycaps-are-here-to-curse-you-out-and-stab-you-170254661.html\">Dbrand’s artisan keycaps are here to curse you out and stab you</a></p><p><a data-i13n=\"cpos:9;pos:1\" data-ylk=\"slk:NVIDIA may soon announce new AI chips for China to get around US export restrictions;cpos:9;pos:1;elm:context_link;itc:0\" href=\"https://www.engadget.com/nvidia-may-soon-announce-new-ai-chips-for-china-to-get-around-us-export-restrictions-100509873.html\">NVIDIA may soon announce new AI chips for China to get around US export restrictions</a></p><p><a data-i13n=\"cpos:10;pos:1\" data-ylk=\"slk:An Elon Musk biopic will be directed by Darren Aronofsky;cpos:10;pos:1;elm:context_link;itc:0\" href=\"https://www.engadget.com/an-elon-musk-biopic-will-be-directed-by-darren-aronofsky-162714444.html\">An Elon Musk biopic will be directed by Darren Aronofsky</a></p><h2><a data-i13n=\"cpos:11;pos:1\" data-ylk=\"slk:NASA can’t talk to its Mars robots for two weeks because the sun is in the way;cpos:11;pos:1;elm:context_link;itc:0\" href=\"https://www.engadget.com/nasa-cant-talk-to-its-mars-robots-for-two-weeks-because-the-sun-is-in-the-way-213022922.html\">NASA can’t talk to its Mars robots for two weeks because the sun is in the way</a></h2><h3>Typical.</h3><figure><div><div><p><a data-ylk=\"\" href=\"https://www.engadget.com/nasa-cant-talk-to-its-mars-robots-for-two-weeks-because-the-sun-is-in-the-way-213022922.html\"><img alt=\"Image, supplied by NASA, of a solar conjunction demonstrating that the Earth and Mars are on opposite sides of the sun, preventing easy communication.\" data-src=\"https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/y2iqcLnCLGe8oiZqiwIzTw--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTUyOA--/https://s.yimg.com/os/creatr-uploaded-images/2023-11/da40d180-8211-11ee-bd7e-9efd029929a9\"></img></a></p></div></div><p><figcaption><span> NASA</span></figcaption></p></figure><p>NASA’s Mars robots have been told to get on with it and don’t make a mess while the parents are away. That’s because <a data-i13n=\"cpos:12;pos:1\" data-ylk=\"slk:Earth and Mars are now on opposite sides of the sun, which blocks missives between the two celestial bodies;cpos:12;pos:1;elm:context_link;itc:0\" href=\"https://www.engadget.com/nasa-cant-talk-to-its-mars-robots-for-two-weeks-because-the-sun-is-in-the-way-213022922.html\">Earth and Mars are now on opposite sides of the sun, which blocks missives between the two celestial bodies</a>. Instead, from now until November 25, the various craft on the planet will gather data alone and otherwise hunker down. And no throwing any wild parties, ya hear?</p><p><a data-i13n=\"cpos:13;pos:1\" data-ylk=\"slk:Continue Reading.;cpos:13;pos:1;elm:context_link;itc:0\" href=\"https://www.engadget.com/nasa-cant-talk-to-its-mars-robots-for-two-weeks-because-the-sun-is-in-the-way-213022922.html\"><strong>Continue Reading.</strong></a></p><h2><a data-i13n=\"cpos:14;pos:1\" data-ylk=\"slk:Apple’s iPad refresh next year could bring OLED iPad Pros and a 12.9-inch iPad Air;cpos:14;pos:1;elm:context_link;itc:0\" href=\"https://www.engadget.com/apples-ipad-refresh-next-year-could-bring-oled-ipad-pros-and-a-129-inch-ipad-air-193729591.html\">Apple’s iPad refresh next year could bring OLED iPad Pros and a 12.9-inch iPad Air</a></h2><h3>The lineup will get more confusing, not less.</h3><p>Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, whose track record is solid enough to warrant attention, says Apple will launch a 12.9-inch iPad Air in 2024. It’s part of a<a data-i13n=\"cpos:15;pos:1\" data-ylk=\"slk:big refresh of the tablet lineup bringing new iPad Airs and a new OLED-equipped iPad Pro;cpos:15;pos:1;elm:context_link;itc:0\" href=\"https://www.engadget.com/apples-ipad-refresh-next-year-could-bring-oled-ipad-pros-and-a-129-inch-ipad-air-193729591.html\"> big refresh of the tablet lineup bringing new iPad Airs and a new OLED-equipped iPad Pro</a>. <a data-i13n=\"cpos:16;pos:1\" data-ylk=\"slk:Click through;cpos:16;pos:1;elm:context_link;itc:0\" href=\"https://www.engadget.com/apples-ipad-refresh-next-year-could-bring-oled-ipad-pros-and-a-129-inch-ipad-air-193729591.html\">Click through</a> to read what Apple may have in store, which appears to be an even more cluttered lineup than it has right now.</p><p><a data-i13n=\"cpos:17;pos:1\" data-ylk=\"slk:Continue Reading.;cpos:17;pos:1;elm:context_link;itc:0\" href=\"https://www.engadget.com/apples-ipad-refresh-next-year-could-bring-oled-ipad-pros-and-a-129-inch-ipad-air-193729591.html\"><strong>Continue Reading.</strong></a></p><h2><a data-i13n=\"cpos:18;pos:1\" data-ylk=\"slk:What happened to Washington’s wildlife after the largest dam removal in US history;cpos:18;pos:1;elm:context_link;itc:0\" href=\"https://www.engadget.com/hitting-the-books-eat-poop-die-joe-roman-hatchette-books-153032502.html\">What happened to Washington’s wildlife after the largest dam removal in US history</a></h2><h3>Nature found a way.</h3><p>In 1910, Washington State dammed the Elwha River, stopping 40 miles of river reaching the open ocean. It caused <a data-i13n=\"cpos:19;pos:1\" data-ylk=\"slk:massive disruption to the local ecosystem, blocking native salmon from making their annual spawning trek;cpos:19;pos:1;elm:context_link;itc:0\" href=\"https://www.engadget.com/hitting-the-books-eat-poop-die-joe-roman-hatchette-books-153032502.html\">massive disruption to the local ecosystem, blocking native salmon from making their annual spawning trek</a> and causing countless second-order effects. A successful years-long battle to take down the dam offered researchers the chance to see what happens when we leave nature to recover. And, oh boy, did it recover.</p><p><a data-i13n=\"cpos:20;pos:1\" data-ylk=\"slk:Continue Reading.;cpos:20;pos:1;elm:context_link;itc:0\" href=\"https://www.engadget.com/hitting-the-books-eat-poop-die-joe-roman-hatchette-books-153032502.html\"><strong>Continue Reading.</strong></a></p><h2><a data-i13n=\"cpos:21;pos:1\" data-ylk=\"slk:Tesla fine print says it may sue Cybertruck resellers for $50K if they flip it too soon;cpos:21;pos:1;elm:context_link;itc:0\" href=\"https://www.engadget.com/tesla-fine-print-says-it-may-sue-cybertruck-resellers-for-50k-if-they-flip-it-too-soon-173137300.html\">Tesla fine print says it may sue Cybertruck resellers for $50K if they flip it too soon</a></h2><h3>That’s if you can even find a willing buyer.</h3><p>If you buy a Cybertruck, you won’t be able to move it on to a third party for a year after your purchase. That’s down to a <a data-i13n=\"cpos:22;pos:1\" data-ylk=\"slk:freshly added clause in the purchase agreement;cpos:22;pos:1;elm:context_link;itc:0\" href=\"https://www.engadget.com/tesla-fine-print-says-it-may-sue-cybertruck-resellers-for-50k-if-they-flip-it-too-soon-173137300.html\">freshly added clause in the purchase agreement</a>, with Tesla saying you can’t sell the vehicle unless you get the automaker’s prior permission. Failure to do so might see the car company suing you for $50,000 — which might discourage resellers.</p><p><a data-i13n=\"cpos:23;pos:1\" data-ylk=\"slk:Continue Reading.;cpos:23;pos:1;elm:context_link;itc:0\" href=\"https://www.engadget.com/tesla-fine-print-says-it-may-sue-cybertruck-resellers-for-50k-if-they-flip-it-too-soon-173137300.html\"><strong>Continue Reading.</strong></a><strong> </strong></p></div>', 'Unlike many of my peers, I prefer desktops to laptops, so I’m always excited when a new iMac rolls off the production line. I’ve had my eye on one for a while, especially now it’s packing an M3 chip\r\n with all the power that promises. Sadly for me and other d…', 'https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/rr2uCHkNnpizYD5xsx5alA--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyMDA7aD04MDA-/https://s.yimg.com/os/creatr-uploaded-images/2023-11/8f905dc0-7f48-11ee-bf3b-a1d7773a597c', '175', NULL, NULL, '', 'newsapi', NULL, NULL, '2023-11-14', '248', '0', '0', NULL, NULL, NULL),
(622, 'A Blink Outdoor 4 bundle is 61 percent off for Amazon Prime members in an early Black Friday deal', '<div><div><p><a data-ylk=\"elm:author;slk:Kris Holt;itc:0\" href=\"https://www.engadget.com/about/editors/kris-holt/\"><img alt=\"Kris Holt\" data-src=\"https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/0OBBim1RwuQ2lZEb_Qrz.Q--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTgwO2g9ODA-/https://o.aolcdn.com/images/dims?image_uri=https%3A%2F%2Fo.aolcdn.com%2Fimages%2Fdims%3Fimage_uri%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Fs.blogcdn.com%252Fwww.engadget.com%252Fmedia%252F2018%252F05%252Fme-irl.jpg%26compress%3D1%26progressive%3D1%26quality%3D75%26client%3Dhawkeye%26signature%3D63fd929600aee3fad02ecbb206186106655c6ccd&amp;compress=1&amp;progressive=1&amp;quality=75&amp;client=hawkeye&amp;signature=b5d76546b48bae2eefb236f2d019f50e509e4388\" src=\"https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/0OBBim1RwuQ2lZEb_Qrz.Q--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTgwO2g9ODA-/https://o.aolcdn.com/images/dims?image_uri=https%3A%2F%2Fo.aolcdn.com%2Fimages%2Fdims%3Fimage_uri%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Fs.blogcdn.com%252Fwww.engadget.com%252Fmedia%252F2018%252F05%252Fme-irl.jpg%26compress%3D1%26progressive%3D1%26quality%3D75%26client%3Dhawkeye%26signature%3D63fd929600aee3fad02ecbb206186106655c6ccd&amp;compress=1&amp;progressive=1&amp;quality=75&amp;client=hawkeye&amp;signature=b5d76546b48bae2eefb236f2d019f50e509e4388\"></img></a></p></div></div><div><p><a data-i13n=\"cpos:1;pos:1\" data-ylk=\"slk:Black Friday;cpos:1;pos:1;elm:context_link;itc:0\" href=\"https://www.engadget.com/tag/black-friday/\"><ins>Black Friday</ins></a> is just a couple of weeks away, but you don’t need to bide your time to check out some significant discounts on an array of devices. If you’re an Amazon Prime member, you can <a data-i13n=\"elm:affiliate_link;sellerN:Amazon;elmt:;cpos:2;pos:1\" data-ylk=\"slk:snag a bundle of Blink cameras for $140;elm:affiliate_link;sellerN:Amazon;elmt:;cpos:2;pos:1;itc:0\" href=\"https://shopping.yahoo.com/rdlw?merchantId=66ea567a-c987-4c2e-a2ff-02904efde6ea&amp;siteId=us-engadget&amp;pageId=1p-autolink&amp;featureId=text-link&amp;merchantName=Amazon&amp;custData=eyJzb3VyY2VOYW1lIjoiV2ViLURlc2t0b3AtVmVyaXpvbiIsImxhbmRpbmdVcmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5hbWF6b24uY29tL0JsaW5rLU91dGRvb3ItY2FtZXJhcy1GbG9vZGxpZ2h0LVBhbi1UaWx0L2RwL0IwQ0M3RFpGR0Y_dGFnPWdkZ3QwYy1wLW8tNHk5LTIwIiwiY29udGVudFV1aWQiOiIxYTQzYzA0MC02Mzk4LTQwYmYtYmRhMy02ZGY2NmIwYTU5ZGEifQ&amp;signature=AQAAAb3Hjnxqiqqi7x4HrkKhlwaMN2t89Q047Dfyfm54EVyf&amp;gcReferrer=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2FBlink-Outdoor-cameras-Floodlight-Pan-Tilt%2Fdp%2FB0CC7DZFGF\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\"><ins>snag a bundle of Blink cameras for $140</ins></a>, which is 61 percent off the regular price of $360. It includes two Outdoor 4 cameras, one Wired Floodlight Camera, one Mini Pan-Tilt Camera and one Sync Module 2.</p><p>It’s a deal worth considering if you’re looking to set up a home security system without breaking the bank. The discount is available for three days.</p><div><div><div><p><a data-ylk=\"sec:large-product;subsec:commlist;elmt:chooseForMe;pdid:Blink Outdoor 4 bundle incuding four home security cameras;pid:amazon_B0CC7DZFGF;aid:amazon_B0CC7DZFGF;itemcost:$280;itmId:$180;sellerN:Amazon;cpos:1;ll3:product-available;ll4:productoffer-manual;elm:affiliate_link;itc:0;slk:$180 at Amazon;pkgt:horizontal-img;pos:1\" href=\"https://shopping.yahoo.com/rdlw?merchantId=66ea567a-c987-4c2e-a2ff-02904efde6ea&amp;itemId=amazon_B0CC7DZFGF&amp;siteId=us-engadget&amp;pageId=pnr-product-module&amp;featureId=product-url&amp;itemName=Blink+Outdoor+4+bundle+incuding+four+home+security+cameras&amp;merchantName=Amazon&amp;itemSourceId=B0CC7DZFGF&amp;brand=Blink&amp;price=359.97&amp;salePrice=279.99&amp;custData=eyJzb3VyY2VOYW1lIjoiV2ViLURlc2t0b3AtVmVyaXpvbiIsImxhbmRpbmdVcmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5hbWF6b24uY29tL0JsaW5rLU91dGRvb3ItY2FtZXJhcy1GbG9vZGxpZ2h0LVBhbi1UaWx0L2RwL0IwQ0M3RFpGR0Y_dGFnPWdkZ3QwYy1wLW8tNHk4LTIwIiwiY29udGVudFV1aWQiOiIxYTQzYzA0MC02Mzk4LTQwYmYtYmRhMy02ZGY2NmIwYTU5ZGEifQ&amp;signature=AQAAAZwCc2Mu90F04wDEI124_UYHo6zVDfrOKSOTs1nEsPt8\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"><img data-src=\"https://s.yimg.com/uu/api/res/1.2/0zIe2rGd.IawigBwqN9_BQ--~B/Zmk9c3RyaW07aD03MjA7dz0xMjgwO2FwcGlkPXl0YWNoeW9u/https://media-mbst-pub-ue1.s3.amazonaws.com/creatr-uploaded-images/2023-11/2b9260a0-7f18-11ee-bec3-a7c5e70cdbc3\" height=\"720\" width=\"1280\"></img></a></p><p>Blink</p></div></div><div><p>A bundle of four Blink security cameras, one Sync Module and accessories is currently 61 percent off for Amazon Prime members.</p><p><a data-ylk=\"sec:large-product;subsec:commlist;elmt:chooseForMe;pdid:Blink Outdoor 4 bundle incuding four home security cameras;pid:amazon_B0CC7DZFGF;aid:amazon_B0CC7DZFGF;itemcost:$280;itmId:$180;sellerN:Amazon;cpos:1;ll3:product-available;ll4:productoffer-manual;elm:affiliate_link;itc:0;slk:$180 at Amazon;pkgt:horizontal-cta;pos:4\" href=\"https://shopping.yahoo.com/rdlw?merchantId=66ea567a-c987-4c2e-a2ff-02904efde6ea&amp;itemId=amazon_B0CC7DZFGF&amp;siteId=us-engadget&amp;pageId=pnr-product-module&amp;featureId=product-url&amp;itemName=Blink+Outdoor+4+bundle+incuding+four+home+security+cameras&amp;merchantName=Amazon&amp;itemSourceId=B0CC7DZFGF&amp;brand=Blink&amp;price=359.97&amp;salePrice=279.99&amp;custData=eyJzb3VyY2VOYW1lIjoiV2ViLURlc2t0b3AtVmVyaXpvbiIsImxhbmRpbmdVcmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5hbWF6b24uY29tL0JsaW5rLU91dGRvb3ItY2FtZXJhcy1GbG9vZGxpZ2h0LVBhbi1UaWx0L2RwL0IwQ0M3RFpGR0Y_dGFnPWdkZ3QwYy1wLW8tNHk4LTIwIiwiY29udGVudFV1aWQiOiIxYTQzYzA0MC02Mzk4LTQwYmYtYmRhMy02ZGY2NmIwYTU5ZGEifQ&amp;signature=AQAAAZwCc2Mu90F04wDEI124_UYHo6zVDfrOKSOTs1nEsPt8\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\">$180 at Amazon</a></p></div></div><p>The bundle will effectively give you a full indoor and outdoor camera system. You’ll also get three mounting kits, four AA batteries, two USB cables and two power adapters. You could always add more Blink devices to your set up if you feel the need to. It\'s worth bearing in mind that Blink devices only work with Alexa, so they may not be suitable if you\'re, for instance, already heavily invested in Google\'s smart home ecosystem.</p><p>In our guide to the <a data-i13n=\"cpos:3;pos:1\" data-ylk=\"slk:best smart home devices;cpos:3;pos:1;elm:context_link;itc:0\" href=\"https://www.engadget.com/best-smart-home-devices-154557162.html\"><ins>best smart home devices</ins></a>, we highlighted the new <a data-i13n=\"cpos:4;pos:1\" data-ylk=\"slk:Blink Outdoor 4;cpos:4;pos:1;elm:context_link;itc:0\" href=\"https://www.engadget.com/blinks-new-outdoor-4-camera-accessories-include-battery-and-range-extenders-160101967.html\"><ins>Blink Outdoor 4</ins></a> as our favorite wireless security camera. It can be placed indoors and it\'ll run for up to two years before you need to replace the AA batteries. The Blink Outdoor 4 has support for night vision, motion detection and two-way audio (via the Blink app and devices like Echo Show). It\'s weather resistant too.</p><p>The bundle comes with a 30-day trial of the Blink Subscription Plan, which you\'ll need if you prefer to store clips in the cloud. Alternatively, you can save clips locally on the included Blink Sync Module 2 or a USB flash drive (which you\'ll need to buy separately).</p><p>You\'ll receive an alert when the cameras detect movement. If you have the Blink Subscription Plan, you\'ll also be alerted when the Outdoor 4 and Wired Floodlight Camera detect a person using their computer vision features.</p><p>Meanwhile, the Outdoor 4 and Wired Floodlight Camera both support <a data-i13n=\"cpos:5;pos:1\" data-ylk=\"slk:customizable privacy zones;cpos:5;pos:1;elm:context_link;itc:0\" href=\"https://support.blinkforhome.com/en_US/camera-settings/how-to-configure-privacy-zones\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\"><ins>customizable privacy zones</ins></a>. This feature enables you to select areas that the cameras don\'t record at all. You might want to use this to avoid viewing your neighbor\'s door or yard. Alternatively, if you use the Outdoor 4 indoors, you may wish to block out the area between your bathroom and bedroom for post-shower privacy.</p><p><strong><em>Your Black Friday Shopping Guide:</em></strong><em> See all of </em><a data-i13n=\"cpos:6;pos:1\" data-ylk=\"slk:Yahoo’s Black Friday coverage, here.;cpos:6;pos:1;elm:context_link;itc:0\" href=\"https://www.yahoo.com/topics/black-friday/\"><em>Yahoo’s Black Friday coverage, here.</em></a><em> Follow Engadget for </em><a data-i13n=\"cpos:7;pos:1\" data-ylk=\"slk:Black Friday tech deals;cpos:7;pos:1;elm:context_link;itc:0\" href=\"https://www.engadget.com/black-friday/\"><em>Black Friday tech deals</em></a><em>. Learn about </em><a data-i13n=\"cpos:8;pos:1\" data-ylk=\"slk:Black Friday trends;cpos:8;pos:1;elm:context_link;itc:0\" href=\"https://www.intheknow.com/tag/black-friday/\"><em>Black Friday trends</em></a><em> on In The Know. Hear from Autoblog’s experts on the best </em><a data-i13n=\"cpos:9;pos:1\" data-ylk=\"slk:Black Friday deals for your car, garage, and home;cpos:9;pos:1;elm:context_link;itc:0\" href=\"https://www.autoblog.com/black-friday/\"><em>Black Friday deals for your car, garage, and home</em></a><em>, and find </em><a data-i13n=\"cpos:10;pos:1\" data-ylk=\"slk:Black Friday sales;cpos:10;pos:1;elm:context_link;itc:0\" href=\"https://www.aol.com/shopping/gifting\"><em>Black Friday sales</em></a><em> to shop on AOL, handpicked just for you.</em></p></div>', 'Black Friday\r\n is just a couple of weeks away, but you don’t need to bide your time to check out some significant discounts on an array of devices. If you’re an Amazon Prime member, you can snag a bundle of Blink cameras for $140\r\n, which is 61 percent off th…', 'https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/YtBRF50ec_hh759iORKRAw--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyMDA7aD03MjA-/https://s.yimg.com/os/creatr-uploaded-images/2023-09/0d5c4a00-57a0-11ee-b5ff-d8f87f10de90', '175', NULL, NULL, '', 'newsapi', NULL, NULL, '2023-11-14', '248', '0', '0', NULL, NULL, NULL),
(623, 'Qualcomm brings on-device AI to mobile and PC', '<div><p>Qualcomm is no stranger in running artificial intelligence and machine learning systems on-device and without an internet connection. They’ve been doing it with their camera chipsets for years. But on Tuesday at Snapdragon Summit 2023, the company announced that on-device AI is finally coming to mobile devices and Windows 11 PCs as part of the new Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 and X Elite chips.</p><p>Both chipsets were built from the ground up with generative AI capabilities in mind and are able to support a variety of large language models (LLM), language vision models (LVM), and transformer network-based automatic speech recognition (ASR) models, up to 10 billion parameters for the SD8 gen 3 and 13 billion parameters for the X Elite, entirely on-device. That means you’ll be able to run anything from Baidu’s ERNIE 3.5 to OpenAI’s Whisper, Meta\'s Llama 2 or Google’s Gecko on your phone or laptop, without an internet connection. Qualcomm’s chips are optimized for voice, text and image inputs.</p><p>“It\'s important to have a wide array of support underneath the hood for these models to be running and therefore heterogeneous compute is extremely important,â€ Durga Malladi, SVP &amp; General Manager, Technology Planning &amp; Edge Solutions at Qualcomm, told reporters at a prebriefing last week. “We have state-of-the-art CPU, GPU, and NPU (Neural Processing Unit) processors that are used concurrently, as multiple models are running at any given point in time.â€</p><p>The Qualcomm AI Engine is comprised of the Oryon CPU, the Adreno GPU and Hexagon NPU. Combined, they handle up to 45 TOPS (trillions of operations per second) and can crunch 30 tokens per second on laptops, 20 tokens per second on mobile devices — <a data-i13n=\"cpos:1;pos:1\" data-ylk=\"slk:tokens being the basic text/data unit that LLMs can process/generate off of;cpos:1;pos:1;elm:context_link;itc:0\" href=\"https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/semantic-kernel/prompt-engineering/tokens\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">tokens being the basic text/data unit that LLMs can process/generate off of</a>. The chipsets use Samsung’s 4.8GHz LP-DDR5x DRAM for their memory allocation.</p><figure><div><div><p><img alt=\"a summary screen of the various new features offered on X Elite and SD8 gen 3 chips, same as what\'s discussed in the text.\" data-src=\"https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/lyMpjqjKYIrEXlE27nrvzA--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTU0MA--/https://s.yimg.com/os/creatr-uploaded-images/2023-10/1d3d22f0-71d6-11ee-b8b5-653a94f32baa\"></img></p></div></div><p><figcaption><span> Qualcomm</span></figcaption></p></figure><p>“Generative AI has demonstrated the ability to take very complex tasks, solve them and resolve them in a very efficient manner,â€ he continued. Potential use cases could include meeting and document summarization or email drafting for consumers, and prompt-based computer code or music generation for enterprise applications, Malladi noted.</p><p>Or you could just use it to take pretty pictures. Qualcomm is integrating its previous work with edge AI, <a data-i13n=\"cpos:2;pos:1\" data-ylk=\"slk:Cognitive ISP;cpos:2;pos:1;elm:context_link;itc:0\" href=\"https://www.edge-ai-vision.com/2023/05/2023-edge-ai-and-vision-product-of-the-year-award-winner-showcase-qualcomm-cameras-and-sensors/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Cognitive ISP</a>. Devices using these chipsets will be able to edit photos in real-time and in as many as 12 layers. They\'ll also be able to capture clearer images in low light, remove unwanted objects from photos (a la <a data-i13n=\"cpos:3;pos:1\" data-ylk=\"slk:Google’s Magic Eraser;cpos:3;pos:1;elm:context_link;itc:0\" href=\"https://www.engadget.com/google-photos-will-use-generative-ai-to-straight-up-change-your-images-171014939.html\">Google’s Magic Eraser</a>) or expand image backgrounds. User scan even watermark their shots as being real and not AI generated, using Truepic photo capture.</p><p>Having an AI that lives primarily on your phone or mobile device, rather than in the cloud, will offer users myriad benefits over the current system. Much like enterprise AIs that take a general model (e.g. GPT-4) and tune it using a company’s internal data to provide more accurate and on-topic answers, a locally-stored AI “over time… gradually get personalized,â€ Malladi said, “in the sense that… the assistant gets smarter and better, running on the device in itself.â€</p><p>What’s more, the inherent delay present when the model has to query the cloud for processing or information doesn’t exist when all of the assets are local. As such, both the X Elite and SD8 gen 3 are capable of not only running Stable Diffusion on-device but generating images in less than 0.6 seconds.</p><p>The capacity to run bigger and more capable models, and interact with those models using our speaking words instead of our typing words, could ultimately prove the biggest boon to consumers. “There\'s a very unique way in which we start interfacing the devices and voice becomes a far more natural interface towards these devices — as well in addition to everything else,â€ Malladi said. “We believe that it has the potential to be a transformative moment, where we start interacting with devices in a very different way compared to what we\'ve done before.â€</p><p>Mobile devices and PCs are just the start for Qualcomm’s on-device AI plans. The 10-13 billion parameter limit is already moving towards 20 billion-plus parameters as the company develops new chip iterations. “These are very sophisticated models,â€ Malladi commented. “The use cases that you build on this are quite impressive.â€</p><p>“When you start thinking about ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems) and you have multi-modality [data] coming in from multiple cameras, IR sensors, radar, lidar — in addition to voice, which is the human that is inside the vehicle in itself,â€ he continued. “The size of that model is pretty large, we\'re talking about 30 to 60 billion parameters already.â€ Eventually, these on-device models could approach 100 billion parameters or more, according to Qualcomm’s estimates.</p></div>', 'Qualcomm is no stranger in running artificial intelligence and machine learning systems on-device and without an internet connection. They’ve been doing it with their camera chipsets for years. But on Tuesday at Snapdragon Summit 2023, the company announced t…', 'https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/4A2CBeXtSKp7rl9A_43XFg--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyMDA7aD04Njc-/https://s.yimg.com/os/creatr-uploaded-images/2023-10/8c71eac2-71d6-11ee-bdd5-9c984c0d4c48', '175', NULL, NULL, '', 'newsapi', NULL, NULL, '2023-11-14', '248', '0', '0', NULL, NULL, NULL);
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(624, 'Ayaneos Kun gaming handheld is an exercise in decadence', '<div><p>Thirteen. That’s the number of different handheld gaming PCs that Ayaneo shows on its homepage as of this writing. Fourteen if you count the preview for one in the carousel. Each device comes in a choice of colors with different storage and RAM configurations. Ayaneo has a lot of SKUs. Only five months ago I reviewed the <a data-i13n=\"cpos:1;pos:1\" data-ylk=\"elm:context_link;cpos:1;pos:1;itc:0\" href=\"https://www.engadget.com/ayaneo-air-plus-mini-steam-deck-163047036.html\">Air Plus</a> and it’s already been discounted to make way for <a data-i13n=\"cpos:2;pos:1\" data-ylk=\"elm:context_link;cpos:2;pos:1;itc:0\" href=\"https://www.ayaneo.com/goods/8058510115061\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">the next version</a>. The current tippy-top of all these handhelds is the <a data-i13n=\"cpos:3;pos:1\" data-ylk=\"elm:context_link;cpos:3;pos:1;itc:0\" href=\"https://ayaneo.com/product/AYANEO-KUN.html\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Ayaneo Kun</a> and it is, currently, one of a kind.</p>\n<p>The Kun is the highest-spec machine the company has ever made, and after using it for a couple of weeks I can say it’s both a fantastic gaming handheld and (if you want) a decent portable general-use PC. But despite being the latest and greatest, it didn’t take long for one thing to become abundantly clear: The Kun is just a placeholder for the Kun 2, or the Kun 1S, Kun Pro or… whatever they call the beefier, updated version that’s waiting for the next generation of processors. We’ll get to why in a bit, but for now, it’s the most impressive console the company has made.</p>\n<figure><img alt=\"The Ayaneo Kun is pictured on a coffee table with the Death Stranding launch screen showing.\" data-crop-orig-src=\"https://s.yimg.com/os/creatr-uploaded-images/2023-10/c89c7de0-7806-11ee-bcba-ff722260ed04\" data-uuid=\"24b50a0e-fea3-3769-a558-a2766a783406\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https://mysterio.yahoo.com/api/res/1.2/rAKfUGAdfxnoSTDmlM2BWA--/ZHByPTI7dz04NzU7YXBwaWQ9ZW5nYWRnZXQ-/https://s.yimg.com/os/creatr-uploaded-images/2023-10/c89c7de0-7806-11ee-bcba-ff722260ed04.cf.webp\"></img><figcaption></figcaption><p>Photo by James Trew / Engadget</p></figure>\n<p>With an 8.4-inch display, the latest AMD Ryzen 7 7840U processor, and up to 64GB of RAM and 4TB of storage the Kun kicks digital sand in the face of the anemic-by-comparison Steam Deck. Physically, it’s a shade taller and, at two pounds (900g), a (double) handful. But with Valve’s portable approaching its second birthday, it’s starting to make less sense to measure the current wave of gaming portables against it. That said, just one look at the Kun, with its familiar-looking trackpads and rear buttons, and it’s clear how it’s been influenced by the market-leading device .</p>\n<p>Before we talk about how all that hardware performs, or the software experience, we should talk about price. The fully loaded Kun I’ve been testing costs an eye-watering $1,700. That’s enough money for a good desktop gaming PC, including the monitor. It’s also enough to buy <em>two</em> top of the line Steam Decks with change (or two high-end <a data-i13n=\"cpos:4;pos:1\" data-ylk=\"elm:context_link;cpos:4;pos:1;itc:0\" href=\"https://www.engadget.com/asus-rog-ally-review-the-steam-decks-most-powerful-rival-specs-price-080029032.html\">ROG Allys</a>). A better comparison is the lowest-spec Kun, as that matches the RAM and storage (16GB / 512 GB) of the high-end Deck ($649), and <em>that </em>model costs <a data-i13n=\"cpos:5;pos:1\" data-ylk=\"elm:context_link;cpos:5;pos:1;itc:0\" href=\"https://www.indiegogo.com/projects/ayaneo-kun-8-4-screen-7840u-handheld-with-54w-tdp#/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">a slightly more reasonable $999</a>. You can add another $200 or so to those Kun prices if you purchase outside of the IGG campaign, but Ayaneo tends to leave them going long enough for anyone who wants one to get the better price.</p><div data-component=\"NewsletterCard\" data-reactroot=\"\"><div><div><div class=\"\" data-component=\"SimpleEmailSignupForm\"><form novalidate=\"\"><p><img height=\"88px\" src=\"https://s.yimg.com/kw/assets/Newsletter_Envelope.png\" width=\"100px\"></img></p><div><div><div><h2>Subscribe to the Engadget Deals Newsletter</h2><p>Great deals on consumer electronics delivered straight to your inbox, curated by Engadget’s editorial team. <a href=\"https://subscription.yahoo.net/NewsLetter/preference/Preview?Brand=engadgetdeals\" target=\"_blank\">See latest</a></p></div><p><img height=\"88px\" src=\"https://s.yimg.com/kw/assets/Newsletter_Envelope.png\" width=\"100px\"></img></p></div><p role=\"alert\">Please enter a valid email address</p><p role=\"alert\">Please select a newsletter</p><p>By subscribing, you are agreeing to Engadget\'s <a href=\"https://legal.yahoo.com/us/en/yahoo/terms/otos/index.html\" target=\"_blank\">Terms</a> and <a href=\"https://legal.yahoo.com/us/en/yahoo/privacy/index.html\" target=\"_blank\">Privacy Policy</a>.</p></div></form></div></div></div></div>\n<p>While the Kun is new, there’s a lot we’ve seen before. The <a data-i13n=\"cpos:6;pos:1\" data-ylk=\"elm:context_link;cpos:6;pos:1;itc:0\" href=\"https://www.engadget.com/ayaneo-2s-review-160047194.html\">Ayaneo 2S</a> shares the same 7840U processor and graphics chip. But in terms of performance, you might reasonably expect the Kun to be a shade worse, as that 8.4-inch display allows 1600p gaming which is more intensive than the 1200p max of the Ayaneo 2 or 2S. The reality, however, is that while you <em>can</em> play games at higher resolutions, it’s usually not worth it for the hit on performance. That’s where the other important hardware difference on the Kun comes in: the huge 75Wh battery.</p>\n<figure><img alt=\"The Ayaneo Kun playing a game while showing the settings overlay.\" data-crop-orig-src=\"https://s.yimg.com/os/creatr-uploaded-images/2023-10/4c47f600-7808-11ee-a9fb-22569aaf1287\" data-uuid=\"85f3ca99-86e5-3153-b510-ab908e2ac10e\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https://mysterio.yahoo.com/api/res/1.2/LYKg_o28Q3FjmdlFwmTYXg--/ZHByPTI7dz04NzU7YXBwaWQ9ZW5nYWRnZXQ-/https://s.yimg.com/os/creatr-uploaded-images/2023-10/4c47f600-7808-11ee-a9fb-22569aaf1287.cf.webp\"></img><figcaption></figcaption><p>Photo by James Trew / Engadget</p></figure>\n<p>When playing games at 1080p or 1200p everything still looks fantastic. That display is bright, has excellent dynamic range and just really brings games to life. The pairing of optimized graphics settings and the bigger battery translates to much longer play sessions. Exactly how long will depend on a few variables along with the maximum power drain/TDP that you specify in the Ayaspace software. But as a broad guide, for lighter games and things like retro emulation you should be able to crack five hours. For a lot of AAA games, you can expect over three hours of 1080p play (assuming a TDP of between 15 and 20). If you want to increase the resolution to either 1200 or 1600 and increase the TDP nearer 30 then you might eke out two hours if you’re lucky.</p>\n<p>Those times are pretty good for this current generation of Windows handhelds, but there are other factors to consider. The Kun is a foot wide and a little hefty. Sure, you can take this thing places but you will not be sliding it out of a pocket while waiting at the DMV. The Kun lives to be played, unironically, at home — or someone else’s home, or maybe on a flight or long train ride. The size and weight aren’t problematic in these controlled, indoor environments, but you’ll want to be somewhere relatively comfortable or ergonomic. There’s a kickstand, which really helps with certain types of games, but it positions the Kun upright like a laptop screen. I do wish the stand were adjustable to allow for a variety of angles, but it’s better than nothing.</p>\n<figure><img alt=\"Rear view of the Ayaneo Kun gaming handheld\" data-crop-orig-src=\"https://s.yimg.com/os/creatr-uploaded-images/2023-10/9159d880-7808-11ee-b7f9-c2d0569c14ef\" data-uuid=\"5d99ecef-450b-3897-a9b7-70058f47f44f\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https://mysterio.yahoo.com/api/res/1.2/qvXdroTSOBSaKa3b7_DfaA--/ZHByPTI7dz04NzU7YXBwaWQ9ZW5nYWRnZXQ-/https://s.yimg.com/os/creatr-uploaded-images/2023-10/9159d880-7808-11ee-b7f9-c2d0569c14ef.cf.webp\"></img><figcaption></figcaption><p>Photo by James Trew / Engadget</p></figure>\n<p>Personally, I found myself playing with it while on the couch, grabbing an hour or so of game time between work and dinner. For extended sessions, I would dock it and play through the TV. This hybrid use case seems to be where the Kun excels. You don’t need to occupy the living room’s main screen, but you can still be around friends or family. And then when you really want to get into a game, playing through the TV is where the Kun’s higher 54W max power drain / TDP can come in handy.</p>\n<p>Here is a good time to circle back to something I alluded to right up top. That 54W max TDP is really, really high compared to the Steam Deck’s 15W highest power setting. It’s also a lot higher than even the Ayaneo 2S’ 30W limit. But right now that doesn’t translate into much extra game performance. The GPU on this device will be the bottleneck, usually reaching 100 percent long before you reach anything near 54W of power. Sadly, jacking the power up to 54W once the GPU is already running at maximum won’t change anything. But what it can help with is two fold.</p>\n<figure><img alt=\"The Ayaneo Kun paired with a bluetooth keyboard and mouse\" data-crop-orig-src=\"https://s.yimg.com/os/creatr-uploaded-images/2023-10/f711bb70-7808-11ee-a7fd-8d3ca745d36a\" data-uuid=\"9821b45a-553c-3552-a7d7-ef9c892daa44\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https://mysterio.yahoo.com/api/res/1.2/u7oZN9ep2DWdA95up_xzbA--/ZHByPTI7dz04NzU7YXBwaWQ9ZW5nYWRnZXQ-/https://s.yimg.com/os/creatr-uploaded-images/2023-10/f711bb70-7808-11ee-a7fd-8d3ca745d36a.cf.webp\"></img><figcaption></figcaption><p>Photo by James Trew / Engadget</p></figure>\n<p>Firstly, it allows for more CPU intensive tasks like general computing. Want to run music making software on this thing? You definitely could. Have the urge to edit video footage on the go? The Kun will eat this up. With a keyboard and a mouse, the Kun is, in a comical way, a good all-purpose computer. Heck, it even has a webcam with infrared for Windows Hello (and Zoom calls) which is something many laptops don’t even have. The Kun’s screen is more Netbook than Macbook in terms of size, but it’s big <em>enough</em>. You could always connect it to a monitor anyway. Don\'t buy it for this reason of course, it\'s just a testament to how big and powerful this thing is.</p>\n<p>Secondly, and most importantly for gamers, is that this 54W TDP is a fairly clear indicator that the Kun form factor will go through the same continuous revisions as Ayaneo’s other models. The Kun is basically all set for a chipset that <em>can</em> make use of 54W TDP for gaming once AMD and others start making APUs with more powerful GPUs in them. We’re a ways out from any likely refresh from AMD, but you never know, as they’re not the only name in the game. Not even in <a data-i13n=\"cpos:7;pos:1\" data-ylk=\"elm:context_link;cpos:7;pos:1;itc:0\" href=\"https://www.tomshardware.com/news/emdoor-handheld-gaming-pc-shown-with-intel-core-ultra-meteor-lake-cpu\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">the handheld gaming game</a>.</p>\n<p>The result is, predictably, a device with a lot to offer but also some quite narrow appeal. In fact, there’s a  good chance that if you were interested in one of these, you already placed an order for one. For those folks, the Kun delivers on its promises. For that small group that didn’t know they were looking for a $1,000-plus gaming handheld, the Kun currently has no real competition at this size and specification. For everyone else, it’s likely an exercise in excess, but at least it’s fun.</p></div>', 'Thirteen. That’s the number of different handheld gaming PCs that Ayaneo shows on its homepage as of this writing. Fourteen if you count the preview for one in the carousel. Each device comes in a choice of colors with different storage and RAM configurations…', 'https://s.yimg.com/uu/api/res/1.2/skkXrGgpOCEJWjmwIV5UzQ--~B/Zmk9ZmlsbDtoPTYzMDtweW9mZj0wO3c9MTIwMDthcHBpZD15dGFjaHlvbg--/https://media-mbst-pub-ue1.s3.amazonaws.com/creatr-uploaded-images/2023-10/680a9e40-7805-11ee-be67-0493b7a6d585.cf.jpg', '175', NULL, NULL, '', 'newsapi', NULL, NULL, '2023-11-14', '248', '0', '0', NULL, NULL, NULL),
(625, 'Bigscreen Beyond review: Gunning for the VR throne', '<div><p>The <a data-i13n=\"cpos:1;pos:1\" data-ylk=\"elm:context_link;cpos:1;pos:1;itc:0\" href=\"https://www.engadget.com/bigscreen-beyond-vr-headset-150039481.html\">Bigscreen Beyond</a> is miraculous. I expected the first hardware from <a data-i13n=\"cpos:2;pos:1\" data-ylk=\"elm:context_link;cpos:2;pos:1;itc:0\" href=\"https://www.bigscreenvr.com/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Bigscreen</a>, a company known mainly for its VR movie-watching app, to be merely a noble effort. You know, a brave attempt by a newcomer to make a splash in the niche world of VR – something that deserves golf claps and little more. They say hardware is <em>hard</em> for a reason; how can a small software company take on titans like Valve and Meta?</p>\n<p>Despite everything stacked against it (and it\'s not without some freshman stumbles), the Bigscreen Beyond stands out. It\'s less a headset like the original Oculus Rift, and more akin to an oversized pair of glasses that can still immerse you. Consequently, it\'s the most comfortable VR solution I\'ve ever tested. It also has some of the sharpest displays I\'ve ever seen, thanks to cutting-edge Micro-OLED panels (Meta, meanwhile, has fallen back on cheaper LCD displays for the Quest 3).</p>\n<div data-component=\"ProductCard\" data-reactroot=\"\"><div data-component=\"ProductScores\"><div><div><p>Bigscreen</p><h2>Bigscreen Beyond</h2></div></div></div><div data-component=\"ProsCons\"><div><h2>Pros</h2><ul><li>Incredibly light and comfortable</li><li> Sharp and bright Micro-OLED screens</li><li> Works alongside existing Valve Index accessories</li></ul></div><div><h2>Cons</h2><ul><li>Expensive</li><li> No built-in audio</li><li> Still exhibits artifacting like other VR headsets</li></ul></div></div></div><p>Somehow, a small VR app company built a truly compelling upgrade from the <a data-i13n=\"cpos:3;pos:1\" data-ylk=\"elm:context_link;cpos:3;pos:1;itc:0\" href=\"https://www.engadget.com/2019-06-28-valve-index-review-vr.html\">Valve Index</a>, which is still one of the best VR headsets around. That deserves more than just golf claps.</p>\n\n        <div>\n            <h2>Gallery: Bigscreen Beyond<span> | 12 Photos</span></h2>\n            \n            \n            <template id=\"wafer-lightbox-wrapper-template\">\n                \n            </template>\n            <template id=\"article-lightbox-1986ba1c-3106-4e79-88f5-d884f31fcd94\">\n                <div id=\"article-lightbox\">\n                    <h2>Gallery: Bigscreen Beyond<span> | 12 Photos</span></h2>\n                    \n                </div>\n            </template>\n        </div>\n    \n<p>With all that being said, the Bigscreen Beyond also isn\'t something I can recommend to most people. The average gamer doesn\'t need a Ferrari, after all. While Meta is aiming for the masses with the $299 <a data-i13n=\"cpos:4;pos:1\" data-ylk=\"elm:context_link;cpos:4;pos:1;itc:0\" href=\"https://www.engadget.com/oculus-quest-2-review-vr-facebook-headset-173026291-173042930.html\">Quest 2</a> and $499 <a data-i13n=\"cpos:5;pos:1\" data-ylk=\"elm:context_link;cpos:5;pos:1;itc:0\" href=\"https://www.engadget.com/meta-quest-3-review-mixed-reality-vr-150009788.html\">Quest 3</a>, the $999 Bigscreen Beyond is squarely targeted at Valve Index owners and VR enthusiasts who demand more comfort and better screens. It\'s meant for a niche of the niche. The Beyond is even harder to justify if you\'re stepping into high-end VR for the first time, since it requires two SteamVR base stations ($300 for a pair) and Valve Index controllers ($279). A $1,578 setup isn\'t exactly the best introduction to VR.</p><div data-component=\"NewsletterCard\" data-reactroot=\"\"><div><div><div class=\"\" data-component=\"SimpleEmailSignupForm\"><form novalidate=\"\"><p><img height=\"88px\" src=\"https://s.yimg.com/kw/assets/Newsletter_Envelope.png\" width=\"100px\"></img></p><div><div><div><h2>Subscribe to the Engadget Deals Newsletter</h2><p>Great deals on consumer electronics delivered straight to your inbox, curated by Engadget’s editorial team. <a href=\"https://subscription.yahoo.net/NewsLetter/preference/Preview?Brand=engadgetdeals\" target=\"_blank\">See latest</a></p></div><p><img height=\"88px\" src=\"https://s.yimg.com/kw/assets/Newsletter_Envelope.png\" width=\"100px\"></img></p></div><p role=\"alert\">Please enter a valid email address</p><p role=\"alert\">Please select a newsletter</p><p>By subscribing, you are agreeing to Engadget\'s <a href=\"https://legal.yahoo.com/us/en/yahoo/terms/otos/index.html\" target=\"_blank\">Terms</a> and <a href=\"https://legal.yahoo.com/us/en/yahoo/privacy/index.html\" target=\"_blank\">Privacy Policy</a>.</p></div></form></div></div></div></div>\n<p>Nothing about the Beyond is easy. That makes it best suited for people who are already used to the inconveniences and indignities of PC VR. Upon ordering it, you\'ll need to create a 3D scan of your face via a mobile website. That process took around five minutes for me, but it requires an iPhone – Android users will need to borrow one or sneakily scan their faces at an Apple Store.</p>\n<figure><img alt=\"Bigscreen Beyond VR headset lenses through the face cushion\" data-crop-orig-src=\"https://s.yimg.com/os/creatr-uploaded-images/2023-10/731df743-7347-11ee-bfe7-f32f75d2b670\" data-uuid=\"7cefdbbe-f7f8-3652-9c79-020a839048ea\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https://mysterio.yahoo.com/api/res/1.2/iq52N3bgUpBMvCf_3gKOUA--/ZHByPTI7dz04NzU7YXBwaWQ9ZW5nYWRnZXQ-/https://s.yimg.com/os/creatr-uploaded-images/2023-10/731df743-7347-11ee-bfe7-f32f75d2b670.cf.webp\"></img><figcaption></figcaption><p>Photo by Devindra Hardawar/Engadget</p></figure>\n<p>Once your face is scanned, Bigscreen 3D prints an eyepiece cushion that\'s built specifically for you. That process also determines the interpupillary distance, or IPD for the headset\'s lenses. Instead of being adjustable like some competitors, Bigscreen has 18 (!) different models of the Beyond to fit IPDs between 55 millimeters and 72mm. The company says being so rigid about IPD sizes allows it to reduce weight – I can only imagine the logistical nightmare that creates. (That extreme customization also means it’ll be tough to share the Beyond with others.)</p>\n<p>I\'ll admit, I was shocked how well it fit the first time I tried the Beyond. It barely felt like I was wearing anything at all, since the weight was evenly distributed across my face. There was no pressure around my eyes, or on the bridge of my nose, issues I\'ve come to expect from heavy VR headsets. There was also no light leakage either, something that can easily kill immersion, and the cushions easily clamp onto the headset using magnets.</p>\n<figure><img alt=\"Side profile of the Bigscreen Beyond \" data-crop-orig-src=\"https://s.yimg.com/os/creatr-uploaded-images/2023-10/731dd031-7347-11ee-b377-7a86e1056b04\" data-uuid=\"91e49e17-b005-36f7-ab64-ec2d46395ab2\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https://mysterio.yahoo.com/api/res/1.2/qK1MtOhLwnQwITtvmyCurQ--/ZHByPTI7dz04NzU7YXBwaWQ9ZW5nYWRnZXQ-/https://s.yimg.com/os/creatr-uploaded-images/2023-10/731dd031-7347-11ee-b377-7a86e1056b04.cf.webp\"></img><figcaption></figcaption><p>Photo by Devindra Hardawar/Engadget</p></figure>\n<p>According to Bigscreen founder and CEO Darshan Shankar, the company developed a unique skin-safe foam material for the face cushion. It can be washed with soap and water, making it potentially more sanitary than the sweat-absorbing pads on other headsets. Shankar says he\'s been using one foam pad for several years, and, surprisingly enough, he doesn\'t try to protect it while traveling. If you do need a replacement, though, you can order one from Bigscreen for $49.</p>\n<p>Given how small it is, the Beyond also doesn\'t have room to fit glasses like the Quest 3. Instead, prescription glasses wearers will have to order custom lenses from the company. I can\'t speak about that ordering process much — Bigscreen just shipped me prescription lenses alongside my review unit — but it’ll involve plugging in your prescription alongside your order. (Snagging lenses for the Quest 3 from Zenni Optical is no different than ordering a normal pair of glasses.) The Beyond\'s lenses magnetically snap onto its displays without any effort, and they\'re also easy to remove for cleaning.</p>\n<p>You can tell that the Bigscreen Beyond isn\'t like any other VR headset on the market with one glance. Imagine chopping off the top and bottom of the Valve Index, leaving only the displays behind. It looks suitably futuristic, with transparent plastic alongside the front and a few LEDs to let you know when it\'s powered up. It also weighs just 127 grams (0.28 pounds), slightly more than a deck of playing cards. In comparison, the Valve Index comes in at 1.8 pounds, while the Quest 3 weighs 1.1 pounds. The Beyond ships with a rear head strap, which was tight enough to stay secured on my head, but there\'s also a top strap in the box for those who need it.</p>\n<figure><img alt=\"Bigscreen Beyond VR headset from the front\" data-crop-orig-src=\"https://s.yimg.com/os/creatr-uploaded-images/2023-10/731df742-7347-11ee-ae4f-15aa61273d9c\" data-uuid=\"8e7b5c40-e6df-3447-b019-616878ebc937\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https://mysterio.yahoo.com/api/res/1.2/g9n1TFH8Yf6d3AUZcwb8uw--/ZHByPTI7dz04NzU7YXBwaWQ9ZW5nYWRnZXQ-/https://s.yimg.com/os/creatr-uploaded-images/2023-10/731df742-7347-11ee-ae4f-15aa61273d9c.cf.webp\"></img><figcaption></figcaption><p>Photo by Devindra Hardawar/Engadget</p></figure>\n<p>If you look closely at Bigscreen\'s promotional photos for the Beyond, you may notice something that\'s missing: Headphones. It doesn\'t include any built-in speakers of its own, so you\'ll have to come up with your own solution. I was able to fit Arctis\'s Nova Pro headphones on top of the Beyond, but that defeats the purpose of having such a light headset. I eventually paired my AirPod Pros to my Windows PC — something I never do otherwise — and that worked just fine. Bigscreen plans to release<a data-i13n=\"cpos:6;pos:1\" data-ylk=\"elm:context_link;cpos:6;pos:1;itc:0\" href=\"https://store.bigscreenvr.com/products/pro-audio-strap\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\"> a $129 audio strap</a> later this year but, for now, Beyond buyers should plan to have wireless earbuds handy.</p>\n<p>So clearly Bigscreen managed to create a unique headset, but how well does it handle VR? Simply put, it\'s far better than I expected from the company\'s first stab at hardware. Its Micro-OLED displays are bright and feature far more contrast than the Quest 3\'s LCD panels. They’re also noticeably sharper than the Index\'s. The Beyond offers 2,560 by 2,560 pixels per eye, while the Valve headset delivers 1,440 by 1,600 pixels per eye.</p>\n<p>That difference was particularly stark while replaying <em>Half-LIfe: Alyx</em>, a game I\'ve already spent dozens of hours immersed in while testing the Index years ago. On the Bigscreen Beyond, it felt more like I was stepping into <em>Alyx\'s</em> dystopian world. I could barely feel the headset on my face, and everything just looked more realistic. I had a far easier time reading small text on newspapers strewn about the game—something that took a lot of squinting on the Index.</p>\n       \n                            </div>', 'The Bigscreen Beyond is miraculous. I expected the first hardware from Bigscreen, a company known mainly for its VR movie-watching app, to be merely a noble effort. You know, a brave attempt by a newcomer to make a splash in the niche world of VR – something …', 'https://s.yimg.com/uu/api/res/1.2/4iBly8Cqv.MYe3Nmf8aFnA--~B/Zmk9ZmlsbDtoPTYzMDtweW9mZj0wO3c9MTIwMDthcHBpZD15dGFjaHlvbg--/https://media-mbst-pub-ue1.s3.amazonaws.com/creatr-uploaded-images/2023-10/731dd031-7347-11ee-bfd3-b6ef88b6e5a5.cf.jpg', '175', NULL, NULL, '', 'newsapi', NULL, NULL, '2023-11-14', '248', '0', '0', NULL, NULL, NULL),
(626, 'MacBook Pro 14-inch and 16-inch review: An M3 chip for every situation', '<div>\n<p>Apple\'s confusing laptop family finally makes sense this year. The long-rumored <a data-i13n=\"cpos:1;pos:1\" data-ylk=\"elm:context_link;cpos:1;pos:1;itc:0\" href=\"https://www.engadget.com/apple-macbook-air-15-inch-review-a-bigger-screen-makes-a-surprising-difference-130033172.html\">15-inch MacBook Air </a>arrived months ago, and the company surprised us by delivering <em>two</em> MacBook Pro revisions in less than 12 months. While I appreciated the speed bump that the <a data-i13n=\"cpos:2;pos:1\" data-ylk=\"elm:context_link;cpos:2;pos:1;itc:0\" href=\"https://www.engadget.com/apple-macbook-pro-14-inch-review-2023-m2-pro-max-140048268.html\">M2 Pro models </a>brought, the new M3-equipped MacBook Pro 14- and 16-inch are a clearer sign of where Apple is headed. The company has killed off the <a data-i13n=\"cpos:3;pos:1\" data-ylk=\"elm:context_link;cpos:3;pos:1;itc:0\" href=\"https://www.engadget.com/macbook-pro-13-inch-review-m2-2022-130005000.html\">long-suffering 13-inch MacBook Pro</a>, which was cursed with a Touch Bar and an aging design. Now, its Pro machines are truly geared towards professionals, while the Air models are meant for everyone else.</p>\n\n        <div>\n            <h2>Gallery: Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch and 16-inch (M3, 2023)<span> | 14 Photos</span></h2>\n            \n            \n            <template id=\"wafer-lightbox-wrapper-template\">\n                \n            </template>\n            <template id=\"article-lightbox-b5fd27c3-7bb7-49ee-815e-f24979791f03\">\n                <div id=\"article-lightbox\">\n                    <h2>Gallery: Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch and 16-inch (M3, 2023)<span> | 14 Photos</span></h2>\n                    \n                </div>\n            </template>\n        </div>\n    \n<p>Curiously, though, Apple also seems to be dividing those professionals into more distinct subgroups. The cheaper $1,599 14-inch MacBook Pro sports a plain M3 chip, which has an 8-core CPU and 10-core GPU. It’s an entirely new addition to the lineup, and consequently it  seems tailor-made for people who want something more than a MacBook Air, but don’t need the power of a $2,000 machine. It\'s equipped with a mere 8GB of RAM — a limitation you\'ll likely feel as browser tabs stack up — and it loses a USB-C port on its right side.</p>\n<div data-component=\"ProductCard\" data-reactroot=\"\"><div data-component=\"ProductScores\"><div><div><p>Apple</p><h2>Apple 14-inch MacBook Pro (M3, 2023)</h2></div></div></div><div data-component=\"ProsCons\"><div><h2>Pros</h2><ul><li>M3 chip is both fast and efficient</li><li> Gorgeous 14-inch screen</li><li> Useful port selection</li><li> Excellent keyboard and trackpad</li><li> Lower $1599 price </li></ul></div><div><h2>Cons</h2><ul><li>Base model has limited RAM</li><li> M3 models lose a USB-C port</li></ul></div></div></div><div data-component=\"ProductCard\" data-reactroot=\"\"><div data-component=\"ProductScores\"><div><div><p>Apple</p><h2>Apple 16-inch MacBook Pro (M3, 2023)</h2></div></div></div><div data-component=\"ProsCons\"><div><h2>Pros</h2><ul><li>Amazing 16-inch screen</li><li> Fast M3 Pro and Max chips</li><li> Best-in-class battery life</li><li> Great keyboard and trackpad</li><li> Useful port selection </li></ul></div><div><h2>Cons</h2><ul><li>Price escalates quickly</li></ul></div></div></div><div>\n                    <div id=\"amazon_B0CM5JV268\">\n                        <a aria-label=\"Shop now\" data-ylk=\"sec:mini-product;pdid:Apple 2023 MacBook Pro Laptop with M3 chip;elm:affiliate_link;sellerN:Amazon;pid:amazon_B0CM5JV268;itc:0;elmt:chooseForMe;slk:Apple 2023 MacBook Pro Laptop with M3 chip;pkgt:mini-product;\" href=\"https://shopping.yahoo.com/rdlw?merchantId=66ea567a-c987-4c2e-a2ff-02904efde6ea&amp;itemId=amazon_B0CM5JV268&amp;siteId=us-engadget&amp;pageId=pnr-product-module&amp;featureId=product-url&amp;itemName=Apple%2B2023%2BMacBook%2BPro%2BLaptop%2BM3%2Bchip%2Bwith%2B8%E2%80%91core%2BCPU%2C%2B10%E2%80%91core%2BGPU%3A%2B14.2-inch%2BLiquid%2BRetina%2BXDR%2BDisplay%2C%2B8GB%2BUnified%2BMemory%2C%2B512GB%2BSSD%2BStorage.%2BWorks%2Bwith%2BiPhone%2FiPad%3B%2BSpace%2BGray&amp;merchantName=Amazon&amp;itemSourceId=B0CM5JV268&amp;brand=Apple&amp;price=1599.0&amp;salePrice=1599.0&amp;custData=eyJzb3VyY2VOYW1lIjoiV2ViLURlc2t0b3AtVmVyaXpvbiIsImxhbmRpbmdVcmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5hbWF6b24uY29tL2RwL0IwQ001SlYyNjgvP3RhZz1nZGd0MGMtcC1vLTR4Zi0yMCIsImNvbnRlbnRVdWlkIjoiZmU1OWUzYTgtY2ZkYi00NDliLTkxZWEtZDJiMWQzYTNiYTg3In0&amp;signature=AQAAAZCEdesSKwsGYE14E8P8L1ucK-eN9hOues3VzxJC68zB\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\">\n                            <p><img alt=\"Apple 2023 MacBook Pro Laptop with M3 chip\" height=\"90px\" src=\"https://s.yimg.com/os/creatr-uploaded-images/2023-11/174e8680-7cae-11ee-9b6e-dea23665ff63\" width=\"100px\"></img>\n                            </p>\n                        </a>\n                        \n                    </div>\n            </div>\n<p>If you\'re actually going to be doing any multimedia work, you can bump up to the $1,999 14-inch M3 Pro model, which features an 11-core CPU and 14-core GPU. You’ll have to shell out $2,399 to get the full power of the M3 Pro with a 12-core CPU and 18-core GPU. And demanding users can jump to the $3,199 M3 Max model, sporting a 14-core CPU and 30-core GPU. Pricing hasn\'t changed at all for the 16-inch MacBook Pro, which still starts at $2,499 with an M3 Pro chip. For the most amount of power, both systems can be equipped with the 16-core CPU/40-core GPU M3 Max.  </p>\n<p>Both MacBook Pro models can also come in a \"Space Black\" color, which features a new anodization process to reduce fingerprints. (Unfortunately, it\'s not available for the base M3 14-inch MacBook Pro, another slight knock against that machine.) While the color looks more charcoal gray in person, it’s darker than Apple\'s previous \"Space Gray\" MacBook Pros. And in my testing, it definitely attracted less fingerprint grease than the pure black \"Midnight\" MacBook Air (though it certainly wasn\'t perfect). I\'m just hoping Apple can eventually produce a Midnight variant of the MacBook Pro that fares better with fingerprints. And don\'t worry, the classic silver option is still around.</p><div data-component=\"NewsletterCard\" data-reactroot=\"\"><div><div><div class=\"\" data-component=\"SimpleEmailSignupForm\"><form novalidate=\"\"><p><img height=\"88px\" src=\"https://s.yimg.com/kw/assets/Newsletter_Envelope.png\" width=\"100px\"></img></p><div><div><div><h2>Subscribe to the Engadget Deals Newsletter</h2><p>Great deals on consumer electronics delivered straight to your inbox, curated by Engadget’s editorial team. <a href=\"https://subscription.yahoo.net/NewsLetter/preference/Preview?Brand=engadgetdeals\" target=\"_blank\">See latest</a></p></div><p><img height=\"88px\" src=\"https://s.yimg.com/kw/assets/Newsletter_Envelope.png\" width=\"100px\"></img></p></div><p role=\"alert\">Please enter a valid email address</p><p role=\"alert\">Please select a newsletter</p><p>By subscribing, you are agreeing to Engadget\'s <a href=\"https://legal.yahoo.com/us/en/yahoo/terms/otos/index.html\" target=\"_blank\">Terms</a> and <a href=\"https://legal.yahoo.com/us/en/yahoo/privacy/index.html\" target=\"_blank\">Privacy Policy</a>.</p></div></form></div></div></div></div>\n<figure><img alt=\"Apple MacBook Pro 16-inch from the front\" data-crop-orig-src=\"https://s.yimg.com/os/creatr-uploaded-images/2023-11/e537b340-7c1e-11ee-85ef-31d43ca2a75e\" data-uuid=\"5ece6a09-5292-3cd5-8d2f-450586cc8c5c\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https://mysterio.yahoo.com/api/res/1.2/HgCw0ZYULqs7ITMwig0OdQ--/ZHByPTI7dz04NzU7YXBwaWQ9ZW5nYWRnZXQ-/https://s.yimg.com/os/creatr-uploaded-images/2023-11/e537b340-7c1e-11ee-85ef-31d43ca2a75e.cf.webp\"></img><figcaption>The 16-inch MacBook Pro with M3 Max.</figcaption><p>Photo by Devindra Hardawar/Engadget</p></figure>\n<p>Other than that new color, though, not much has changed about the overall design of the 14- and 16-inch MacBook Pros, which <a data-i13n=\"cpos:4;pos:1\" data-ylk=\"elm:context_link;cpos:4;pos:1;itc:0\" href=\"https://www.engadget.com/mac-book-pro-14-16-inch-review-2021-apple-mighty-macs-130011975.html\">were refreshed in 2021</a>. Their refined, all-aluminum design was a big step forward from Apple’s older unibody cases, which stuck around for almost a decade. Both computers feature gorgeous 14- and 16-inch Liquid Retina XDR displays, which offer HDR, refresh rates up to 120Hz with ProMotion, and up to 1,600 nits of peak HDR brightness. (One nifty upgrade: They now offer up to 600 nits of SDR brightness, instead of 500 nits.) And yes, the notch everyone made fun of is still around, and once again it houses a 1080p webcam.</p>\n<p>I\'m not complaining, mind you. This MacBook Pro redesign was a major improvement when it debuted two years ago, and it still looks great today. I wouldn\'t be surprised if Apple sticks with it for years, just like it did the old unibody design. While some PC-makers are eager to throw in features to make their computers stand out — like the rear LED lights on <a data-i13n=\"cpos:5;pos:1\" data-ylk=\"elm:context_link;cpos:5;pos:1;itc:0\" href=\"https://www.engadget.com/asus-zephyrus-g14-review-amd-ryzen-radeon-173016459.html\">ASUS\'s Zephyrus G14 </a>and m16 — there\'s something casually cool and confident about these MacBook Pros.</p>\n<p>You might be wondering why we’re reviewing both the 14-inch and 16-inch models together – to put it simply, they’re practically the same machine with different screen sizes. One isn’t necessarily better than the other, it really depends on your needs. If you’re a video editor working on large project timelines, it makes sense to go for the biggest screen possible, especially since you can cram in that 40-core GPU. And if you need something more compact, the smaller model makes more sense as it weighs just 3.5 pounds, while the 16-inch is a back-aching 4.7 pounds.</p>\n<figure><img alt=\"Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch from the rear, showing off the Apple logo.\" data-crop-orig-src=\"https://s.yimg.com/os/creatr-uploaded-images/2023-11/e536a1d0-7c1e-11ee-9e77-9ea8e142b078\" data-uuid=\"7f41dedd-81f5-3a78-9c4a-bd29063ad0d0\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https://mysterio.yahoo.com/api/res/1.2/DRllJq27GNUMnyxqM2hBHA--/ZHByPTI7dz04NzU7YXBwaWQ9ZW5nYWRnZXQ-/https://s.yimg.com/os/creatr-uploaded-images/2023-11/e536a1d0-7c1e-11ee-9e77-9ea8e142b078.cf.webp\"></img><figcaption></figcaption><p>Photo by Devindra Hardawar/Engadget</p></figure>\n<p>I tested the 14-inch MacBook Pro with an M3 chip and 16GB of RAM, as well as the 16-inch model with an M3 Max and a whopping 128GB of RAM. (Unfortunately, we couldn\'t get our hands on an M3 Pro model to compare, but we\'ll update our benchmarks once we do.) To be honest, both computers performed exactly as I expected. The 14-inch M3 MacBook Pro is still a zippy little devil for general productivity work — in my case, that\'s with dozens of browser tabs, Slack, Evernote, Spotify and Pixelmator Pro all at once. The 16-inch model, on the other hand, was practically begging for more serious workloads. (Perhaps I was just feeling the pressure of using a machine with that much RAM and an 8TB SSD.)</p>\n<table readabilityDataTable=\"1\"><tbody><tr><th><p>None</p>\n</th><th><p>Geekbench 5 CPU</p>\n</th><th><p>Geekbench 5 Compute</p>\n</th><th><p>Cinebench R23</p>\n</th><th><p>3DMark Wildlife Extreme</p>\n</th></tr><tr><td><p>Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (Apple M3, 2023)</p>\n</td><td><p>2,368/10,729</p>\n</td><td><p>32,749</p>\n</td><td><p>1,932/10,159</p>\n</td><td><p>8,139</p>\n</td></tr><tr><td><p>Apple MacBook Pro 16-inch (Apple M3 Max, 2023)</p>\n</td><td><p>2,367/22,961</p>\n</td><td><p>94,245</p>\n</td><td><p>1,915/23,830</p>\n</td><td></td></tr><tr><td><p>Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (Apple M2 Max, 2023)</p>\n</td><td><p>1,970/15,338</p>\n</td><td><p>71,583</p>\n</td><td><p>1,603/14,725</p>\n</td><td><p>18 ,487</p>\n</td></tr><tr><td><p>Apple MacBook Pro 13-inch (Apple M2, 2022)</p>\n</td><td><p>1,938/8,984</p>\n</td><td><p>27,304</p>\n</td><td><p>1,583/8,719</p>\n</td><td><p>6,767</p>\n</td></tr></tbody></table>\n<p>In the Geekbench 6 and Cinebench 2024 benchmarks, both the M3 and M3 Max chips showed slight improvements over the M2 variants and more noticeable leaps ahead of the M1 family. I can\'t imagine too many folks are eager to upgrade their M2 MacBook Pros, but demanding users may see the need to move beyond the M1 machines at this point. For content creators, time is money after all, so it\'s worth spending a bit more to plow through projects quickly. And if you\'re one of the many Mac users still on an Intel system, the M3 hardware makes the push to upgrade even more compelling.</p>\n<p>While Apple still isn\'t trying to court hardcore gamers much, it\'s at least laying the groundwork for a better gaming experience. Thanks to the upgraded GPU in the M3, for example, <em>Lies of P</em> played far more smoothly on the 14-inch MacBook Pro, compared to the slightly stuttery experience I saw on the 13-inch MacBook Pro with M2. I was able to crank all of the graphics settings to their highest level while playing in 1,920 by 1,200, and the game easily maintained a silky smooth 60fps. The 16-inch MacBook Pro delivered an even better experience thanks to the M3 Max. I was able to crank <em>Lies of P</em> up to 1440p with all of the graphics settings maxed out and still stay at 60fps. The M2 13-inch MacBook Pro, in comparison, hovered between 40 and 60 fps.</p>\n<p>What\'s most impressive, though, is that I saw that performance while on battery power. The dedicated GPUs on PC gaming laptops tend to slow down considerably when they\'re away from the lifeline of AC power. Apple\'s expansion into gaming could also open up the MacBook Pro to people who already own PC gaming desktops, but want the refinement of a Mac laptop. I was able to seamlessly dive into my <em>Baldur\'s Gate 3</em> campaign (thanks Steam Cloud Saves) across both machines. That\'s something that would have been unthinkable just a few years ago.</p>\n<figure><img alt=\"Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch left side ports: Magsafe power, two USB-C and one headphone jack.\" data-crop-orig-src=\"https://s.yimg.com/os/creatr-uploaded-images/2023-11/e5367ac0-7c1e-11ee-af2d-90951d0f29dd\" data-uuid=\"7ef7cc21-4776-3505-868a-70ac74b3a93f\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https://mysterio.yahoo.com/api/res/1.2/3O85tfivfUacmiMhhl.aCA--/ZHByPTI7dz04NzU7YXBwaWQ9ZW5nYWRnZXQ-/https://s.yimg.com/os/creatr-uploaded-images/2023-11/e5367ac0-7c1e-11ee-af2d-90951d0f29dd.cf.webp\"></img><figcaption></figcaption><p>Photo by Devindra Hardawar/Engadget</p></figure>\n<p>Both MacBook Pro models still feature Apple\'s excellent keyboard and trackpad, and they all sport an SD card slot alongside a full-sized HDMI connection and headphone jack. They also have three USB-C Thunderbolt 4 ports — except for the base M3 model, which just has two. Apple also improved on the already excellent battery life of the previous models: The 14-inch MacBook Pro lasted 24 hours and 30 minutes during our benchmark, while the 16-inch model reached 24 hours and 50 minutes. During real-world usage, both computers took almost two days before I had to recharge them. Given how power-hungry Intel\'s chips have been lately, it\'s nice to see laptops that can easily survive the 14 and a half-hour flight between New York City and Tokyo.</p>\n<p>Another plus? If you were stuck on that flight with either of these laptops, you’d truly appreciate their Liquid Retina XDR displays. While they’re not OLED screens, their MiniLED backlights are wonderfully bright, and they also offer excellent color depth for photographers. Mostly, though, I appreciated their high refresh rates – even doing something simple, like scrolling through a website, looks incredibly smooth. And while the 14.2-inch screen on the smaller MacBook Pro is only a tad larger than the Air’s 13.6-inch display, I found it noticeably more immersive while catching up on Netflix shows. For my purposes, the 14-inch model was also a great balance of screen size and portability – the 16-inch Pro is just so damn large. (But yes, I’d imagine that would be even more useful for video editing.)</p>\n       \n                            </div>', 'Apple\'s confusing laptop family finally makes sense this year. The long-rumored 15-inch MacBook Air arrived months ago, and the company surprised us by delivering two MacBook Pro revisions in less than 12 months. While I appreciated the speed bump that the M2…', 'https://s.yimg.com/uu/api/res/1.2/fJ97.mWs4qpHtyswCb1EqQ--~B/Zmk9ZmlsbDtoPTYzMDtweW9mZj0wO3c9MTIwMDthcHBpZD15dGFjaHlvbg--/https://media-mbst-pub-ue1.s3.amazonaws.com/creatr-uploaded-images/2023-11/e5384f80-7c1e-11ee-bd73-50f80f693bba.cf.jpg', '175', NULL, NULL, '', 'newsapi', NULL, NULL, '2023-11-14', '248', '0', '0', NULL, NULL, NULL);
INSERT INTO `tbl_article` (`id`, `arttitle`, `artcontent`, `artshortcontent`, `artimg`, `artwebdomain`, `artcat`, `artcatname`, `artcampid`, `arttype`, `artvideoid`, `artytlang`, `artdate`, `uid`, `spintextflag`, `langtransflag`, `artinbuildnewskeyword`, `artnewstype`, `artnewskeyword`) VALUES
(627, 'How to Add a Light Switch to Any Existing Outlet', '<section>\n<section data-ga-module=\"content-body\">\n\n<p>\nWe may earn a commission from links on this page.\n</p>\n<img alt=\"A single light switch on a wall\" height=\"702\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1280px) 100vw, 1280px\" src=\"https://lifehacker.com/imagery/articles/01HF2H4816TSQS8SJP9QJG0317/hero-image.fill.size_1248x702.v1699833654.jpg\" srcset=\"https://lifehacker.com/imagery/articles/01HF2H4816TSQS8SJP9QJG0317/hero-image.fill.size_400x225.v1699833654.jpg 400w, https://lifehacker.com/imagery/articles/01HF2H4816TSQS8SJP9QJG0317/hero-image.fill.size_800x450.v1699833654.jpg 800w, https://lifehacker.com/imagery/articles/01HF2H4816TSQS8SJP9QJG0317/hero-image.fill.size_1248x702.v1699833654.jpg 1600w\" width=\"1248\"></img>\n<p><span>Credit: sharpshutter - Shutterstock</span>\n</p>\n<article data-autopogo=\"\">\n<hr></hr>\n<p>If you have a room with no overhead light fixture, or one in which the main light switch isn’t convenient, you can solve your problem by adding a switch to one of your power outlets to control a lamp instead. Whether it’s in an entryway, bedroom, or some other space that needs illumination, here’s what you need to know to add a switch to your system.</p><h2>Tools and materials</h2><p>You’ll need some tools for this job, as it requires some minor rewiring, which will mean cutting access holes in the wall.</p><p>Here’s what you’ll need:</p><ul><li><p>An <a href=\"https://zdcs.link/D4RoN?pageview_type=Standard&amp;template=article&amp;module=content-body&amp;element=offer&amp;item=text-link&amp;element_label=oscillating%20saw&amp;short_url=D4RoN&amp;u=https%3A%2F%2Flifehacker.com%2Fhow-to-add-a-light-switch-to-any-existing-outlet-1850988750\" rel=\"nofollow sponsored\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"(opens in a new window)\">oscillating saw</a> or <a href=\"https://zdcs.link/drB3v?pageview_type=Standard&amp;template=article&amp;module=content-body&amp;element=offer&amp;item=text-link&amp;element_label=drywall%20saw&amp;short_url=drB3v&amp;u=https%3A%2F%2Flifehacker.com%2Fhow-to-add-a-light-switch-to-any-existing-outlet-1850988750\" rel=\"nofollow sponsored\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"(opens in a new window)\">drywall saw</a> to cut a hole for a switch box and an access slot</p></li><li><p>A pair of needle nosed or electrician’s pliers</p></li><li><p>A <a href=\"https://zdcs.link/Mql34?pageview_type=Standard&amp;template=article&amp;module=content-body&amp;element=offer&amp;item=text-link&amp;element_label=multimeter&amp;short_url=Mql34&amp;u=https%3A%2F%2Flifehacker.com%2Fhow-to-add-a-light-switch-to-any-existing-outlet-1850988750\" rel=\"nofollow sponsored\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"(opens in a new window)\">multimeter</a></p></li><li><p>A drop cloth</p></li><li><p>Fish tape</p></li><li><p>An outlet/receptacle</p></li><li><p>A light switch</p></li><li><p>Electrical tape</p></li><li><p>Two wire plus ground cable</p></li><li><p>Wire cutters/strippers</p></li><li><p>A screwdriver</p></li><li><p>Wire nuts</p></li></ul><h2>1. Shut off the power and open the outlet</h2><p>Begin by shutting off the power to the outlet you’ll be working on. To be sure that the power is off, use the multimeter to test the circuit. This is the most important step to avoid the risk of shock. Once you’re sure it’s safe, remove the outlet from the wall by unscrewing the cover and undoing any screws that hold it in place. You should be able to wiggle the receptacle free without touching the terminals to test for power.</p><h2>2. Measure for your switch box and cut into your drywall</h2><p>Measure and mark where you would like your switch to be. It’s usually easiest to put the switch directly above the receptacle on the wall so that running the wire is a simple process. If you need to run wire farther, you will need to get around studs and other obstructions in the wall. Throw down your dropcloth now to make clean-up easier. Next, cut a hole to accommodate the switch box you’re planning to add, and then cut a one- to two-inch tall slot a few inches wide below the outlet to allow access to fish the wire through.</p><div>\n<p><img alt=\"Lifehacker Image\" height=\"963\" loading=\"lazy\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1408px) 100vw, 1408px\" src=\"https://lifehacker.com/imagery/articles/01HF2H4816TSQS8SJP9QJG0317/images-1.fill.size_2000x963.v1699833654.png\" srcset=\"https://lifehacker.com/imagery/articles/01HF2H4816TSQS8SJP9QJG0317/images-1.fill.size_800x385.v1699833654.png 800w, https://lifehacker.com/imagery/articles/01HF2H4816TSQS8SJP9QJG0317/images-1.fill.size_1400x674.v1699833654.png 1400w, https://lifehacker.com/imagery/articles/01HF2H4816TSQS8SJP9QJG0317/images-1.fill.size_2000x963.v1699833654.png 2000w\" width=\"2000\"></img>\n</p>\n<p><span></span>\n<span>Credit: Becca Lewis</span>\n</p>\n</div>\n<h2>3. Remove the coupling tab</h2><p>Next, remove the tab that protrudes from the side of the outlet using your pliers. This tab connects the two power outlets together, so to allow only one to be switchable, you need to uncouple them. At this point, you should also disconnect the outlet from the wires, making sure to take note of where each wire connects. Take a photo of the wiring configuration to double check when reconnecting.</p><h2>4. Fish the wires through</h2><p>Using the fish tape, fish a two wire (plus ground) cable through the wall between the hole for the switch box and the outlet, and tape or clamp the wires to the edge to keep it from falling inside. (Some electrical codes require you to have a neutral wire at the switch, so you might need to use four wire cable if that’s the case.) Attach the box for the switch to the wall and knot or tape the wires to keep them in place. Then, return to the outlet end of the system. Mark the wire that goes to the switch with a piece of electrical tape to distinguish it from the other white wires in the system.</p><div>\n<p><img alt=\"Lifehacker Image\" height=\"989\" loading=\"lazy\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1408px) 100vw, 1408px\" src=\"https://lifehacker.com/imagery/articles/01HF2H4816TSQS8SJP9QJG0317/images-2.fill.size_2000x989.v1699833654.png\" srcset=\"https://lifehacker.com/imagery/articles/01HF2H4816TSQS8SJP9QJG0317/images-2.fill.size_800x396.v1699833654.png 800w, https://lifehacker.com/imagery/articles/01HF2H4816TSQS8SJP9QJG0317/images-2.fill.size_1400x693.v1699833654.png 1400w, https://lifehacker.com/imagery/articles/01HF2H4816TSQS8SJP9QJG0317/images-2.fill.size_2000x989.v1699833654.png 2000w\" width=\"2000\"></img>\n</p>\n<p><span></span>\n<span>Credit: Becca Lewis</span>\n</p>\n</div>\n<h2>5. Connect your outlet</h2><p>Strip the ends of your wires clean to about ¾ on an inch and attach the black wire that goes to the light switch and a black jumper wire to the power source with a wire nut. Then, wire the jumper into the non-switched receptacle. Attach the white wire with tape on it to the switched receptacle. Then, splice the neutrals together and attach the neutral lead to the neutral tab on the outlet. Don’t remove the coupling tab on the neutral side, as both outlets will use the same one. Splice the grounds in the same way, making sure that you’re following local grounding requirements. You can replace your outlet in the wall now.</p><div>\n<p><img alt=\"Lifehacker Image\" height=\"990\" loading=\"lazy\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1408px) 100vw, 1408px\" src=\"https://lifehacker.com/imagery/articles/01HF2H4816TSQS8SJP9QJG0317/images-3.fill.size_2000x990.v1699833654.png\" srcset=\"https://lifehacker.com/imagery/articles/01HF2H4816TSQS8SJP9QJG0317/images-3.fill.size_800x396.v1699833654.png 800w, https://lifehacker.com/imagery/articles/01HF2H4816TSQS8SJP9QJG0317/images-3.fill.size_1400x693.v1699833654.png 1400w, https://lifehacker.com/imagery/articles/01HF2H4816TSQS8SJP9QJG0317/images-3.fill.size_2000x990.v1699833654.png 2000w\" width=\"2000\"></img>\n</p>\n<p><span></span>\n<span>Credit: Becca Lewis</span>\n</p>\n</div>\n<h2>6. Connect your switch</h2><p>Next, wire the light switch. Connect the incoming wire from the power source to the terminal for the input on the light switch, and the outgoing power cord going to the output terminal. Attach the ground to the grounding terminal. You can then attach your lightswitch and cover plate to the switch box.</p><h2>7. Test, patch, and enjoy</h2><p>Next, test your switch by turning the power back on, plugging in a lamp with the switch on the switched outlet in the “onâ€ position, and flipping your light switch. If all went according to plan, you now have a switched outlet. Patch your access hole, paint if necessary, and enjoy having mastered the power of light and dark.</p>\n</article>\n\n</section>\n\n</section>', 'If you have a room with no overhead light fixture, or one in which the main light switch isn’t convenient, you can solve your problem by adding a switch to one of your power outlets to control a lamp instead. Whether it’s in an entryway, bedroom, or some othe…', 'https://i.kinja-img.com/image/upload/c_fill,h_675,pg_1,q_80,w_1200/13f20375e429a2a122b57bffed647eb4.jpg', '185', NULL, NULL, '', 'newsapi', NULL, NULL, '2023-11-15', '1373', '0', '0', NULL, NULL, NULL),
(628, 'You Can Try These New YouTube AI Features Right Now', '<section>\n<section data-ga-module=\"content-body\">\n\n<img alt=\"YouTube on smartphone\" height=\"702\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1280px) 100vw, 1280px\" src=\"https://lifehacker.com/imagery/articles/01HF2HH8RDGHVCMR9TQ9FJQHAC/hero-image.fill.size_1248x702.v1699834433.jpg\" srcset=\"https://lifehacker.com/imagery/articles/01HF2HH8RDGHVCMR9TQ9FJQHAC/hero-image.fill.size_400x225.v1699834433.jpg 400w, https://lifehacker.com/imagery/articles/01HF2HH8RDGHVCMR9TQ9FJQHAC/hero-image.fill.size_800x450.v1699834433.jpg 800w, https://lifehacker.com/imagery/articles/01HF2HH8RDGHVCMR9TQ9FJQHAC/hero-image.fill.size_1248x702.v1699834433.jpg 1600w\" width=\"1248\"></img>\n<p><span>Credit: Chubo - my masterpiece - Shutterstock</span>\n</p>\n<article data-autopogo=\"\">\n<hr></hr>\n<p>Google is rolling out AI features to all of its products, one after another. <a href=\"/you-can-try-google-s-new-bard-features-right-now-1850446640\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"open in a new window\">Bard</a> is popping up in apps like Docs, Sheets, and Gmail, while <a href=\"/google-maps-ai-features-1850958601\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"open in a new window\">artificial intelligence arrived on Google Maps</a> a couple of weeks ago. Now, the AI revolution is coming to YouTube, but only to a limited group.<br></br></p><p><a href=\"https://support.google.com/youtube/thread/242690316/testing-new-experimental-generative-ai-features\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"(opens in a new window)\">Google announced</a> two new AI YouTube features in testing today. These features are rolling out to a small pool of testers at first, so you may or may not see them right away. However, the company is also opening testing to YouTube Premium subscribers. If you pay for YouTube, you can try these two AI features early.</p><h2>Summarize the comments with AI</h2><p>When you have access to YouTube’s new AI features, you’ll see a “✨Topicsâ€ button appear above the comments. Tap it, and YouTube will automatically sort the comments into “themesâ€: If multiple comments are talking about a similar thing, they’ll end up in one of these themes together. Google is hoping this feature makes it easier to read through unwieldy comments sections on viral videos. </p><p>Google used a MrBeast video, “<a href=\"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yhB3BgJyGl8&amp;vl=en\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"(opens in a new window)\">7 Days Stranded at Sea</a>,â€ as an example in its announcement: When you choose <strong>Topics</strong> on this video, you might see comments sorted into themes like “People love Bryan the bird,â€ “Lazerbeam should be in more videos,â€ “No submarine,â€ and “More seven-day challenges.â€</p><h2>ChatGPT meets YouTube</h2><p>This next one makes a lot of sense for YouTube to add, actually. The company is testing a generative AI bot that you can use to ask about the current video you’re watching. There are already plenty of tools like this out there, including ChatGPT itself, but here, you get the convenience of having the bot embedded in the player, without interrupting playback. </p><p>To pull up the bot, tap the new <strong>Ask</strong> button, then ask away. You can chat about what’s going on in the video, ask for recommendations for similar videos, or, if it’s an educational clip, ask for quizzes to test your knowledge.</p><h2>How to try YouTube’s new AI features</h2><p>If you’re a YouTube Premium subscriber, head to <a href=\"http://youtube.com/new\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"(opens in a new window)\">youtube.com/new</a>. Here, you’ll be able to opt in to the new AI features. Keep in mind, they’re only available on iOS and Android to start.</p>\n</article>\n\n</section>\n\n</section><div data-ga-module=\"content-footer\">\n<section>\n<div>\n<div>\n<div>\n<div>\n<div>\n<div>\n<p><img alt=\"Jake Peterson\" height=\"150\" src=\"https://lifehacker.com/imagery/authors/01HF2FBCM600PS5NXSJXJA1AKJ/image.fill.size_150x150.v1699833536.jpg\" width=\"150\"></img>\n</p>\n</div>\n</div>\n<div>\n<p>Jake Peterson</p>\n<p>Senior Technology Editor</p>\n<div>\n<p>Jake Peterson is Lifehacker’s Senior Technology Editor. He has a BFA in Film &amp; TV from NYU, where he specialized in writing. Jake has been helping people with their technology professionally since 2016, beginning as technical specialist at New York’s 5th Avenue Apple Store, then as a writer for the website Gadget Hacks. In that time, he wrote and edited thousands of news and how-to articles about iPhones and Androids, including reporting on live demos from product launches from Samsung and Google. In 2021, he moved to Lifehacker and covers everything from the <a href=\"https://lifehacker.com/tech/living-with-ai\" target=\"_blank\">best uses of AI in your daily life</a> to <a href=\"https://lifehacker.com/okay-which-macbook-should-you-buy-1849330413\" target=\"_blank\">which MacBook to buy</a>. His team covers all things tech, including smartphones, computers, game consoles, and subscriptions. He lives in Connecticut.</p>\n</div>\n<p><a href=\"/author/jakepeterson\">Read Jake\'s full bio</a></p><ul>\n<li>\n<a aria-label=\"Visit Jake\'s Twitter\" href=\"https://twitter.com/@jakecpeterson\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"Find on Twitter (Opens in a new tab)\">\n<svg>\n<use href=\"/images/icons/spritemap.svg#sprite-social-twitter\"></use>\n</svg>\n</a>\n</li>\n<li>\n<a aria-label=\"Send Jake an email\" href=\"/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#caa0baafbeafb8b9a5a48aa6a3acafa2aba9a1afb8e4a9a5a7\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"Send an Email (Opens in a new tab)\">\n<svg>\n<use href=\"/images/icons/spritemap.svg#sprite-envelope\"></use>\n</svg>\n</a>\n</li>\n</ul>\n</div>\n</div>\n</div>\n</div>\n<div>\n\n<div>\n<div data-ga-action=\"latest-stories-stripe\" data-ga-element=\"latest-stories-stripe\" data-ga-module=\"latest-stories\">\n\n<p><a data-ga-click=\"\" data-ga-item=\"image\" data-ga-label=\"Here\'s How to Fix a Pixel Phone Stuck in a Bootloop\" data-ga-position=\"1\" href=\"/tech/pixel-phone-bootloop-fix\">\n<img alt=\"An Android phone\'s loading screen against a dark blue background\" height=\"75\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https://lifehacker.com/imagery/articles/01HF7RS42H7EWW8857AXE94RDR/hero-image.fill.size_75x75.v1699995265.png\" width=\"75\"></img>\n</a>\n</p></div>\n</div>\n<hr></hr>\n<div>\n<div data-ga-action=\"latest-stories-stripe\" data-ga-element=\"latest-stories-stripe\" data-ga-module=\"latest-stories\">\n\n<p><a data-ga-click=\"\" data-ga-item=\"image\" data-ga-label=\"You Can Now Save TikTok Songs to Spotify and Apple Music\" data-ga-position=\"2\" href=\"/tech/how-to-save-songs-from-tiktok-spotify-apple-music\">\n<img alt=\"TikTok\'s new Add Music feature on three different phones\" height=\"75\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https://lifehacker.com/imagery/articles/01HF7GWZ4YVCM4CZ8YN5AQWGQH/hero-image.fill.size_75x75.v1699990581.png\" width=\"75\"></img>\n</a>\n</p></div>\n</div>\n<hr></hr>\n</div>\n</div>\n\n</section>\n</div>', 'Google is rolling out AI features to all of its products, one after another. Bard is popping up in apps like Docs, Sheets, and Gmail, while artificial intelligence arrived on Google Maps a couple of weeks ago. Now, the AI revolution is coming to YouTube, but …', 'https://i.kinja-img.com/image/upload/c_fill,h_675,pg_1,q_80,w_1200/13b393abd014aaeda205fd3526eef9c2.jpg', '185', NULL, NULL, '', 'newsapi', NULL, NULL, '2023-11-15', '1373', '0', '0', NULL, NULL, NULL),
(629, 'Three Things I Do to Protect My Plants Before a Freeze', '<section>\n<section data-ga-module=\"content-body\">\n\n<p>\nWe may earn a commission from links on this page.\n</p>\n<img alt=\"rose bush covered in frost\" height=\"702\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1280px) 100vw, 1280px\" src=\"https://lifehacker.com/imagery/articles/01HF2H9QGPN40N830QDWEBQWZT/hero-image.fill.size_1248x702.v1699833212.jpg\" srcset=\"https://lifehacker.com/imagery/articles/01HF2H9QGPN40N830QDWEBQWZT/hero-image.fill.size_400x225.v1699833212.jpg 400w, https://lifehacker.com/imagery/articles/01HF2H9QGPN40N830QDWEBQWZT/hero-image.fill.size_800x450.v1699833212.jpg 800w, https://lifehacker.com/imagery/articles/01HF2H9QGPN40N830QDWEBQWZT/hero-image.fill.size_1248x702.v1699833212.jpg 1600w\" width=\"1248\"></img>\n<p><span>Credit: K.-U. Haessler - Shutterstock</span>\n</p>\n<article data-autopogo=\"\">\n<hr></hr>\n<p>Much of the U.S. is entering freeze season—and I’m not talking a light morning frost, but a full-on freeze, which is a transformative event for your garden. While ideally we’d all be planting natives that are well-accustumed to our local climate, it’s not always realistic. We like what we like and are often willing to stress-test plants to achieve the landscaping we want (which is why we have orchids growing in our bathrooms). That means more work helping those plants through a heat dome or a freeze, so you’ll need to stay on top of weather alerts.</p><p>Through the extensive network of gardening groups I belong to, it’s rare I’m surprised by a frost or freeze. The message boards will light up with alerts and questions. But I am haunted by the surprise snow of May 2022, where I lovingly placed eight flats of tomatoes, peppers and eggplants that I’d been growing for months outside for their first overnight, and woke up to a blanket of snow. I stood at the door, rubbing my eyes like a cartoon, hoping I was seeing things. So now, I get <a href=\"https://www.weatherusa.net/\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"(opens in a new window)\">notifications</a> right to my phone. Information is powerful. </p><p>In addition, here are the three other things I do the night before a freeze.</p><h2>Water before a freeze, even if it seems counterintuitive</h2><p>If the weather before a freeze is dry, and you’ve already bled your drip or sprinkler system, get out there with a hose and get your plant roots wet. I know, it seems strange. But the water will insulate the roots, and give the cell walls of the plant enough insulation to prevent cold damage. It also improves the plants ability to absorb any heat from the sun, however scant it may be. Even better, as that water evaporates, it creates humidity, and that retains heat better than dry air. The key here is how much you water, because too much can also cause damage. You want moist soil, not soaking wet soil. </p><h2>Warm them up a bit—with old holiday lights</h2><p>Before the great onset of LED holiday lights, there were incandescent bulbs, and those bulbs emitted heat. That’s not so great for lights attached to the house, but <em>is </em>great for giving plants a few degrees of extra heat. A longtime gardeners’ hack is to wrap plants that need a little extra care with these lights the night of a freeze. They also work spectacularly to keep hummingbird feeders from freezing. Best of all, they tend to be free, since most people have moved to much more efficient light strings—but if you had to, <a href=\"https://zdcs.link/mbmKq?pageview_type=Standard&amp;template=article&amp;module=content-body&amp;element=offer&amp;item=text-link&amp;element_label=you%20could%20buy%20some&amp;short_url=mbmKq&amp;u=https%3A%2F%2Flifehacker.com%2Fthree-things-i-do-to-protect-my-plants-before-a-freeze-1850977175\" rel=\"nofollow sponsored\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"(opens in a new window)\">you could buy some</a>. </p><h2>Use the right kind of blanket to tuck your plants in</h2><p>We’re humans, so when it’s cold, we wrap ourselves up. It makes sense to think about doing the same for your plants, but they have different concerns. Winter burn, for one, which is a result of dry soil and whipping wind. Watering helps, as I mentioned. But if you’re going to shroud your plants, it’s important to use the right kind of material. You want the plants to be able to breathe, so materials like burlap are best. You should never use plastic, which will keep moisture against the leaves, and trap heat. Yes, you want heat, but you want it to be able to escape, too. </p><p>You don’t need to be overprotective, either. Young trees and shrubs might need the help, but your established plants probably don’t. Notably, flowering trees like azaleas, camellias, and rhododendrons need protection only from the most extreme cold. </p>\n</article>\n\n</section>\n\n</section>', 'Much of the U.S. is entering freeze season—and I’m not talking a light morning frost, but a full-on freeze, which is a transformative event for your garden. While ideally we’d all be planting natives that are well-accustumed to our local climate, it’s not alw…', 'https://i.kinja-img.com/image/upload/c_fill,h_675,pg_1,q_80,w_1200/15ac11f9e8f2b686c4bfe4b9e2f202a3.jpg', '185', NULL, NULL, '', 'newsapi', NULL, NULL, '2023-11-15', '1373', '0', '0', NULL, NULL, NULL),
(630, 'These DIY Room Dividers Can Help Break Up Your Open Floor Plan', '<section>\n<section data-ga-module=\"content-body\">\n\n<p>\nWe may earn a commission from links on this page.\n</p>\n<img alt=\"Bookcase dividing room \" height=\"702\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1280px) 100vw, 1280px\" src=\"https://lifehacker.com/imagery/articles/01HF2HBEBNRD4N4DH1PXFKRA99/hero-image.fill.size_1248x702.v1699836375.jpg\" srcset=\"https://lifehacker.com/imagery/articles/01HF2HBEBNRD4N4DH1PXFKRA99/hero-image.fill.size_400x225.v1699836375.jpg 400w, https://lifehacker.com/imagery/articles/01HF2HBEBNRD4N4DH1PXFKRA99/hero-image.fill.size_800x450.v1699836375.jpg 800w, https://lifehacker.com/imagery/articles/01HF2HBEBNRD4N4DH1PXFKRA99/hero-image.fill.size_1248x702.v1699836375.jpg 1600w\" width=\"1248\"></img>\n<p><span>Credit: Pixel-Shot - Shutterstock</span>\n</p>\n<article data-autopogo=\"\">\n<hr></hr>\n<p>If your open floor plan is a little <em>too</em> open, or if you want to carve out some defined space for focused use, room dividers can come in handy. Since most types of room dividers are much simpler and less expensive than a renovation, they’re a good solution for a tight budget. In addition, room dividers can often be versatile, making them a convertible option if you want to change configurations. Here’s a handy guide to some creative and practical room dividers so you can set up your space for less.<br></br></p><h2>Use a folding privacy screen</h2><p>The classic type of room divider that most people are familiar with is the <a href=\"https://zdcs.link/jdkDL?pageview_type=Standard&amp;template=article&amp;module=content-body&amp;element=offer&amp;item=text-link&amp;element_label=folding%20privacy%20screen&amp;short_url=jdkDL&amp;u=https%3A%2F%2Flifehacker.com%2Fthese-diy-room-dividers-can-help-break-up-your-open-flo-1850997451\" rel=\"nofollow sponsored\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"(opens in a new window)\">folding privacy screen</a>. These are good for separating small areas and they’re one of the most versatile options because of their portability—and they’re cost effective, at around $100 (and up). The downside of a privacy screen is that it will only cover about six feet of linear space.</p><h2>Use shelving</h2><p>Using a <a href=\"https://zdcs.link/GvXOq?pageview_type=Standard&amp;template=article&amp;module=content-body&amp;element=offer&amp;item=text-link&amp;element_label=free-standing%20bookshelf&amp;short_url=GvXOq&amp;u=https%3A%2F%2Flifehacker.com%2Fthese-diy-room-dividers-can-help-break-up-your-open-flo-1850997451\" rel=\"nofollow sponsored\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"(opens in a new window)\">free-standing bookshelf</a> as a room divider is a good alternative, especially for an office or library space. The nice thing about using a bookshelf is that there are tons of shapes and sizes, allowing access to <a href=\"https://zdcs.link/7L3Dy?pageview_type=Standard&amp;template=article&amp;module=content-body&amp;element=offer&amp;item=text-link&amp;element_label=one&amp;short_url=7L3Dy&amp;u=https%3A%2F%2Flifehacker.com%2Fthese-diy-room-dividers-can-help-break-up-your-open-flo-1850997451\" rel=\"nofollow sponsored\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"(opens in a new window)\">one</a> or <a href=\"https://zdcs.link/wrmEq?pageview_type=Standard&amp;template=article&amp;module=content-body&amp;element=offer&amp;item=text-link&amp;element_label=both&amp;short_url=wrmEq&amp;u=https%3A%2F%2Flifehacker.com%2Fthese-diy-room-dividers-can-help-break-up-your-open-flo-1850997451\" rel=\"nofollow sponsored\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"(opens in a new window)\">both</a> sides, and a variety of heights and widths to suit your needs. Keep in mind when choosing bookshelves that you’ll need to find one that is designed to <a href=\"https://zdcs.link/Oy3W2?pageview_type=Standard&amp;template=article&amp;module=content-body&amp;element=offer&amp;item=text-link&amp;element_label=stand%20up%20without%20a%20wall%20behind%20it&amp;short_url=Oy3W2&amp;u=https%3A%2F%2Flifehacker.com%2Fthese-diy-room-dividers-can-help-break-up-your-open-flo-1850997451\" rel=\"nofollow sponsored\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"(opens in a new window)\">stand up without a wall behind it</a>, one that can be <a href=\"https://zdcs.link/5OpNL?pageview_type=Standard&amp;template=article&amp;module=content-body&amp;element=offer&amp;item=text-link&amp;element_label=anchored%20to%20the%20ceiling&amp;short_url=5OpNL&amp;u=https%3A%2F%2Flifehacker.com%2Fthese-diy-room-dividers-can-help-break-up-your-open-flo-1850997451\" rel=\"nofollow sponsored\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"(opens in a new window)\">anchored to the ceiling</a>, or two <a href=\"https://zdcs.link/68Kn7?pageview_type=Standard&amp;template=article&amp;module=content-body&amp;element=offer&amp;item=text-link&amp;element_label=bookshelves%20that%20you%20can%20attach%20together&amp;short_url=68Kn7&amp;u=https%3A%2F%2Flifehacker.com%2Fthese-diy-room-dividers-can-help-break-up-your-open-flo-1850997451\" rel=\"nofollow sponsored\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"(opens in a new window)\">bookshelves that you can attach together</a> to widen the base and keep them from toppling. Since there are so many types of shelves, prices vary greatly, but simple shelves will cost between $50 and $300 depending on the size. You can choose different configurations of shelves to meet your needs, but they’re not always customizable, so for an odd-shaped space, they might not work.</p><h2>Use curtains</h2><p>A curtain room divider is a versatile option that can be used in almost any space. Using a <a href=\"https://zdcs.link/R6GZV?pageview_type=Standard&amp;template=article&amp;module=content-body&amp;element=offer&amp;item=text-link&amp;element_label=track&amp;short_url=R6GZV&amp;u=https%3A%2F%2Flifehacker.com%2Fthese-diy-room-dividers-can-help-break-up-your-open-flo-1850997451\" rel=\"nofollow sponsored\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"(opens in a new window)\">track</a> that attaches to the ceiling, a hanging <a href=\"https://zdcs.link/0xboe?pageview_type=Standard&amp;template=article&amp;module=content-body&amp;element=offer&amp;item=text-link&amp;element_label=rod%20with%20brackets&amp;short_url=0xboe&amp;u=https%3A%2F%2Flifehacker.com%2Fthese-diy-room-dividers-can-help-break-up-your-open-flo-1850997451\" rel=\"nofollow sponsored\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"(opens in a new window)\">rod with brackets</a>, or a <a href=\"https://zdcs.link/o8vEe?pageview_type=Standard&amp;template=article&amp;module=content-body&amp;element=offer&amp;item=text-link&amp;element_label=tension%20wire&amp;short_url=o8vEe&amp;u=https%3A%2F%2Flifehacker.com%2Fthese-diy-room-dividers-can-help-break-up-your-open-flo-1850997451\" rel=\"nofollow sponsored\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"(opens in a new window)\">tension wire</a> system and a <a href=\"https://zdcs.link/rnVEX?pageview_type=Standard&amp;template=article&amp;module=content-body&amp;element=offer&amp;item=text-link&amp;element_label=curtain&amp;short_url=rnVEX&amp;u=https%3A%2F%2Flifehacker.com%2Fthese-diy-room-dividers-can-help-break-up-your-open-flo-1850997451\" rel=\"nofollow sponsored\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"(opens in a new window)\">curtain</a> tall enough for your space, you can create nearly any shape of divider for a room. Curtain hanging systems will cost between $35 and $100 depending on the type and size, and curtain panels will range widely depending on the material and size as well. You can choose opaque curtains to achieve more privacy or less distraction.</p><h2>Use salvaged windows</h2><p>For an upcycled room divider, hanging <a href=\"https://zdcs.link/N6Ko3?pageview_type=Standard&amp;template=article&amp;module=content-body&amp;element=offer&amp;item=text-link&amp;element_label=salvaged%20windows&amp;short_url=N6Ko3&amp;u=https%3A%2F%2Flifehacker.com%2Fthese-diy-room-dividers-can-help-break-up-your-open-flo-1850997451\" rel=\"nofollow sponsored\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"(opens in a new window)\">salvaged windows</a> is an option to create a room divider. You’ll need to locate a ceiling joist to attach your hanging hardware to, as well as using <a href=\"https://zdcs.link/lreEx?pageview_type=Standard&amp;template=article&amp;module=content-body&amp;element=offer&amp;item=text-link&amp;element_label=well-made%20hardware&amp;short_url=lreEx&amp;u=https%3A%2F%2Flifehacker.com%2Fthese-diy-room-dividers-can-help-break-up-your-open-flo-1850997451\" rel=\"nofollow sponsored\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"(opens in a new window)\">well-made hardware</a> to hang the salvaged windows. The total cost of this project can range widely, from around $20 worth of hardware and some free salvaged windows to around $300 for salvaged windows from a dealer. It’s important to test your salvaged windows for lead paint—chipping lead paint can be dangerous, especially for children or pets. These dividers have some space between panels and are translucent, so they don’t provide much privacy.</p><h2>Use wire mesh</h2><p>Using <a href=\"https://zdcs.link/D4J7N?pageview_type=Standard&amp;template=article&amp;module=content-body&amp;element=offer&amp;item=text-link&amp;element_label=wire%20mesh&amp;short_url=D4J7N&amp;u=https%3A%2F%2Flifehacker.com%2Fthese-diy-room-dividers-can-help-break-up-your-open-flo-1850997451\" rel=\"nofollow sponsored\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"(opens in a new window)\">wire mesh</a> panels hung from the ceiling is a versatile way to create a room divider that can then be set up to hold <a href=\"https://zdcs.link/BYqxB?pageview_type=Standard&amp;template=article&amp;module=content-body&amp;element=offer&amp;item=text-link&amp;element_label=potted%20plants&amp;short_url=BYqxB&amp;u=https%3A%2F%2Flifehacker.com%2Fthese-diy-room-dividers-can-help-break-up-your-open-flo-1850997451\" rel=\"nofollow sponsored\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"(opens in a new window)\">potted plants</a> using <a href=\"https://zdcs.link/Mqp04?pageview_type=Standard&amp;template=article&amp;module=content-body&amp;element=offer&amp;item=text-link&amp;element_label=wire%20hanging%20hooks&amp;short_url=Mqp04&amp;u=https%3A%2F%2Flifehacker.com%2Fthese-diy-room-dividers-can-help-break-up-your-open-flo-1850997451\" rel=\"nofollow sponsored\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"(opens in a new window)\">wire hanging hooks</a>, <a href=\"https://zdcs.link/kkWEg?pageview_type=Standard&amp;template=article&amp;module=content-body&amp;element=offer&amp;item=text-link&amp;element_label=baskets&amp;short_url=kkWEg&amp;u=https%3A%2F%2Flifehacker.com%2Fthese-diy-room-dividers-can-help-break-up-your-open-flo-1850997451\" rel=\"nofollow sponsored\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"(opens in a new window)\">baskets</a>, or to display <a href=\"https://zdcs.link/vRmJq?pageview_type=Standard&amp;template=article&amp;module=content-body&amp;element=offer&amp;item=text-link&amp;element_label=art&amp;short_url=vRmJq&amp;u=https%3A%2F%2Flifehacker.com%2Fthese-diy-room-dividers-can-help-break-up-your-open-flo-1850997451\" rel=\"nofollow sponsored\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"(opens in a new window)\">art</a>. Because the panels can be cut to size, they are a versatile option for creating a room divider. The panels cost between $75 and $100 per panel, so it’s an affordable DIY as long as you don’t have a huge amount of linear feet to cover. The downside to this type of room divider is that it’s not opaque, so if you want privacy, it’s not a great fit.</p>\n</article>\n\n</section>\n\n</section>', 'If your open floor plan is a little too open, or if you want to carve out some defined space for focused use, room dividers can come in handy. Since most types of room dividers are much simpler and less expensive than a renovation, they’re a good solution for…', 'https://i.kinja-img.com/image/upload/c_fill,h_675,pg_1,q_80,w_1200/68d7c9b0c3d1b7977ba8ca9e692f9ce2.jpg', '185', NULL, NULL, '', 'newsapi', NULL, NULL, '2023-11-15', '1373', '0', '0', NULL, NULL, NULL),
(631, 'Woot Is Selling Reconditioned Soundbars for as Low as $80', '<section>\n<section data-ga-module=\"content-body\">\n\n<p>\nWe may earn a commission from links on this page.\n</p>\n<img alt=\"Woot Is Selling Reconditioned Soundbars for as Low as $80\" height=\"702\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1280px) 100vw, 1280px\" src=\"https://lifehacker.com/imagery/articles/01HF2H9DPT3NZE87TCKH08SMW1/hero-image.fill.size_1248x702.v1699834205.png\" srcset=\"https://lifehacker.com/imagery/articles/01HF2H9DPT3NZE87TCKH08SMW1/hero-image.fill.size_400x225.v1699834205.png 400w, https://lifehacker.com/imagery/articles/01HF2H9DPT3NZE87TCKH08SMW1/hero-image.fill.size_800x450.v1699834205.png 800w, https://lifehacker.com/imagery/articles/01HF2H9DPT3NZE87TCKH08SMW1/hero-image.fill.size_1248x702.v1699834205.png 1600w\" width=\"1248\"></img>\n<p><span>Credit: JBL.com - Other</span>\n</p>\n<article data-autopogo=\"\">\n<hr></hr>\n<p>Even on high-end models, most TV speakers suck. Bad speakers are the reason you might have <a href=\"/the-best-ways-to-actually-hear-tv-dialogue-1850921387\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"open in a new window\">trouble understanding the dialogue in shows and movies</a>, and you don’t need a surround sound setup to do better—basically any soundbar will do wonders for your TV’s audio. Currently, Woot is giving you an opportunity to upgrade your sound system with a pretty good one: You can buy a “<a href=\"https://forums.woot.com/t/what-is-grade-a-refurbished/936800#:~:text=Factory%20Reconditioned%20%E2%80%93%20A,a%20previous%20life.\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"(opens in a new window)\">factory reconditioned</a>â€ <a href=\"https://zdcs.link/68BKR?pageview_type=Standard&amp;template=article&amp;module=content-body&amp;element=offer&amp;item=text-link&amp;element_label=JBL%20or%20Yamaha%20soundbars%20for%20as%20little%20as%20%2480&amp;short_url=68BKR&amp;u=https%3A%2F%2Flifehacker.com%2Fwoot-is-selling-reconditioned-soundbars-for-as-low-as-1850963514\" rel=\"nofollow sponsored\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"(opens in a new window)\">JBL or Yamaha soundbars for as little as $80</a>.<br></br></p><p>The deal runs through Nov. 2, or until supplies last. Woot only ships to the 48 contiguous states in the U.S. If you have Amazon Prime, you get free shipping; otherwise, it’ll be $6 to ship.</p><h2>The JBL Bar 2.0 All-in-one soundbar is $80</h2><p>If you clicked because you saw $80 in the headline, here it is: This <a href=\"https://zdcs.link/GvovE?pageview_type=Standard&amp;template=article&amp;module=content-body&amp;element=offer&amp;item=text-link&amp;element_label=JBL%20Bar%202.0%20All-in-one%20soundbar&amp;short_url=GvovE&amp;u=https%3A%2F%2Flifehacker.com%2Fwoot-is-selling-reconditioned-soundbars-for-as-low-as-1850963514\" rel=\"nofollow sponsored\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"(opens in a new window)\">JBL Bar 2.0 All-in-one soundbar</a> came out in 2019 and <a href=\"https://zdcs.link/LvOYO?pageview_type=Standard&amp;template=article&amp;module=content-body&amp;element=offer&amp;item=text-link&amp;element_label=originally%20cost%20%24200&amp;short_url=LvOYO&amp;u=https%3A%2F%2Flifehacker.com%2Fwoot-is-selling-reconditioned-soundbars-for-as-low-as-1850963514\" rel=\"nofollow sponsored\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"(opens in a new window)\">originally cost $200</a>. As <a href=\"/this-all-in-one-jbl-soundbar-is-81-right-now-1850888300\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"\" title=\"open in a new window\">I noted last time it was on sale</a> (for $2 more), it’s a good cheap option if you don’t need a subwoofer:</p><blockquote><p>The JBL Bar 2.0 All-in-one is a solid option for those who want to upgrade from their TV speakers but don’t necessarily want to get multiple speakers or a subwoofer because of space. It’s “all-in-oneâ€ because it has bass already in it, with no need for other speakers. It also has easy installation with minimal wiring. An HDMI cable input allows you to connect it to your TV so you can control the volume with your TV’s remote. It also has Bluetooth and a USB input, so you can connect your devices to play directly from it. </p></blockquote><blockquote><p>Keep in mind that while this soundbar is marketed as a “surround soundâ€ system, it </p><p>can’t realistically “surroundâ€ you with a single speaker</p><p>, and it will not sound like multiple speakers with a subwoofer. However, it does have a surround-sound feature that gives you the </p><p>impression</p><p> of surround sound. When it comes to respectable budget soundbars, you’d be lucky to find anything under $200, let alone under $100. For a single soundbar without a subwoofer, this JBL soundbar will improve most people’s TV speakers significantly. If you have limited space or think a subwoofer is too much for you, this all-in-one soundbar is a good option.</p></blockquote><h2>Get the JBL Bar 5.0 MultiBeam if you need more power</h2><p>The <a href=\"https://zdcs.link/prRrY?pageview_type=Standard&amp;template=article&amp;module=content-body&amp;element=offer&amp;item=text-link&amp;element_label=Bar%205.0%20MultiBeam&amp;short_url=prRrY&amp;u=https%3A%2F%2Flifehacker.com%2Fwoot-is-selling-reconditioned-soundbars-for-as-low-as-1850963514\" rel=\"nofollow sponsored\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"(opens in a new window)\">Bar 5.0 MultiBeam</a> is on sale for <strong>$179.99</strong> (<a href=\"https://zdcs.link/KZbZB?pageview_type=Standard&amp;template=article&amp;module=content-body&amp;element=offer&amp;item=text-link&amp;element_label=normally%20%24399.95&amp;short_url=KZbZB&amp;u=https%3A%2F%2Flifehacker.com%2Fwoot-is-selling-reconditioned-soundbars-for-as-low-as-1850963514\" rel=\"nofollow sponsored\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"(opens in a new window)\">normally $399.95</a>). It’s an upgrade from the JBL Bar 2.0 All-in-one, offering much more power and better bass. The selling point is JBL MultiBeam Technology, which is supposed to mimic the effect of surround sound and create a wider soundstage by bouncing sound off your walls. You can see a <a href=\"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bWyZ685gI8o\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"(opens in a new window)\">sound test and review here</a>.</p><h2>The Yamaha ATS-1090 is $199</h2><p>The <strong><a href=\"https://zdcs.link/5O01j?pageview_type=Standard&amp;template=article&amp;module=content-body&amp;element=offer&amp;item=text-link&amp;element_label=Yamaha%20ATS-1090%20is%20currently%20%2499.99&amp;short_url=5O01j&amp;u=https%3A%2F%2Flifehacker.com%2Fwoot-is-selling-reconditioned-soundbars-for-as-low-as-1850963514\" rel=\"nofollow sponsored\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"(opens in a new window)\">Yamaha ATS-1090 is currently $99.99</a></strong>, and it has a <a href=\"https://usa.yamaha.com/products/audio_visual/sound_bar/ats-1090/index.html\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"(opens in a new window)\">suggested retail price of $219.95</a>. This is Yamaha’s equivalent of the JBL Bar 2.0 All-in-one, and like that model, it lacks a separate subwoofer (though it claims to have one built-in). You can get an <a href=\"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZYdK24CILNk\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"(opens in a new window)\">idea of how it will sound from this video</a>. A feature distinguishing it from the JBL Bar 2.0 is its ability to be controlled with your Alexa through voice commands, and pto lay Spotify over Wi-Fi.</p><h2>Or get a soundbar and subwoofer combo</h2><p>For those who have the space and don’t mind spending a bit more to have the extra punch of a subwoofer, here are your options:</p><p> The <a href=\"https://zdcs.link/Oy1MB?pageview_type=Standard&amp;template=article&amp;module=content-body&amp;element=offer&amp;item=text-link&amp;element_label=JBL%20Bar%202.1%20Deep%20Bass%20soundbar&amp;short_url=Oy1MB&amp;u=https%3A%2F%2Flifehacker.com%2Fwoot-is-selling-reconditioned-soundbars-for-as-low-as-1850963514\" rel=\"nofollow sponsored\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"(opens in a new window)\">JBL Bar 2.1 Deep Bass soundbar</a> and subwoofer combo is currently going for <strong>$159.99 </strong>(<a href=\"https://zdcs.link/27DXW?pageview_type=Standard&amp;template=article&amp;module=content-body&amp;element=offer&amp;item=text-link&amp;element_label=normally%20%24349.95&amp;short_url=27DXW&amp;u=https%3A%2F%2Flifehacker.com%2Fwoot-is-selling-reconditioned-soundbars-for-as-low-as-1850963514\" rel=\"nofollow sponsored\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"(opens in a new window)\">normally $349.95</a>). This is the older 2019 model, not the <a href=\"https://zdcs.link/lrAbW?pageview_type=Standard&amp;template=article&amp;module=content-body&amp;element=offer&amp;item=text-link&amp;element_label=newer%20MK2&amp;short_url=lrAbW&amp;u=https%3A%2F%2Flifehacker.com%2Fwoot-is-selling-reconditioned-soundbars-for-as-low-as-1850963514\" rel=\"nofollow sponsored\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"(opens in a new window)\">newer MK2</a>, but the only real difference is a new look. This sound system lets you stream music via Bluetooth from your phone or tablet, and sets up easily with an HDMI cable. You can read the full specs from the <a href=\"https://zdcs.link/R6oV4?pageview_type=Standard&amp;template=article&amp;module=content-body&amp;element=offer&amp;item=text-link&amp;element_label=JBL%20website%20here&amp;short_url=R6oV4&amp;u=https%3A%2F%2Flifehacker.com%2Fwoot-is-selling-reconditioned-soundbars-for-as-low-as-1850963514\" rel=\"nofollow sponsored\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"(opens in a new window)\">JBL website here</a>.</p><p>Yamaha’s <a href=\"https://zdcs.link/Y1w14?pageview_type=Standard&amp;template=article&amp;module=content-body&amp;element=offer&amp;item=text-link&amp;element_label=ATS-C300%20soundbar&amp;short_url=Y1w14&amp;u=https%3A%2F%2Flifehacker.com%2Fwoot-is-selling-reconditioned-soundbars-for-as-low-as-1850963514\" rel=\"nofollow sponsored\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"(opens in a new window)\">ATS-C300 soundbar</a> and subwoofer are <strong>$139.99</strong> (<a href=\"https://zdcs.link/elelw?pageview_type=Standard&amp;template=article&amp;module=content-body&amp;element=offer&amp;item=text-link&amp;element_label=suggested%20retail%20price%20is%20%24279.95&amp;short_url=elelw&amp;u=https%3A%2F%2Flifehacker.com%2Fwoot-is-selling-reconditioned-soundbars-for-as-low-as-1850963514\" rel=\"nofollow sponsored\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"(opens in a new window)\">suggested retail price is $279.95</a>). It has most of the same features as the JBL Bar 2.1 Deep Bass, but the subwoofer seems to be on the underpowered side. Some distinguishable features include a “Clear Voiceâ€ option for enhanced dialogue clarity and an “Adaptive Low Volumeâ€ for richer sound at low volumes. It’s wall mountable, too. </p>\n</article>\n\n</section>\n\n</section><div data-ga-module=\"content-footer\">\n<section>\n<div>\n<div>\n<div>\n<div>\n<div>\n<div>\n<p><img alt=\"Headshot: Daniel Oropeza\" height=\"150\" src=\"https://lifehacker.com/imagery/authors/01HF2FBG3NFZ3WZWX5Q6M3PDM4/image.fill.size_150x150.v1699833309.jpg\" width=\"150\"></img>\n</p>\n</div>\n</div>\n<div>\n<p>Daniel Oropeza</p>\n<p>Staff Writer</p>\n<div>\n<p>Daniel is a Staff Writer for Lifehacker. He served in the U.S. Navy, where he reached the rank of Petty Officer 3rd Class as a Logistic Specialist and was awarded a Navy Community Service Medal and Navy Letter of Commendation for his exemplary service aboard the USS Theodore Roosevelt aircraft carrier. He earned his bachelor\'s in Environmental Science from the University of California, Davis, and earned his master’s degree from the Columbia University Graduate School of Journalism. Daniel was a business reporter for the Miami Herald before joining Lifehacker. He lives in Atlanta, GA.</p>\n</div>\n<p><a href=\"/author/danieloropeza\">Read Daniel\'s full bio</a></p><ul>\n<li>\n<a aria-label=\"Visit Daniel\'s Twitter\" href=\"https://twitter.com/@DanielOropeza92\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"Find on Twitter (Opens in a new tab)\">\n<svg>\n<use href=\"/images/icons/spritemap.svg#sprite-social-twitter\"></use>\n</svg>\n</a>\n</li>\n<li>\n<a aria-label=\"Visit Daniel\'s Instagram\" href=\"https://www.instagram.com/@guaco.92\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"Find on Instagram (Opens in a new tab)\">\n<svg>\n<use href=\"/images/icons/spritemap.svg#sprite-social-instagram\"></use>\n</svg>\n</a>\n</li>\n<li>\n<a aria-label=\"Send Daniel an email\" href=\"/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#e78388958897829d86a78b8e81828f86848c8295c984888a\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"Send an Email (Opens in a new tab)\">\n<svg>\n<use href=\"/images/icons/spritemap.svg#sprite-envelope\"></use>\n</svg>\n</a>\n</li>\n</ul>\n</div>\n</div>\n</div>\n</div>\n<div>\n\n<div>\n<div data-ga-action=\"latest-stories-stripe\" data-ga-element=\"latest-stories-stripe\" data-ga-module=\"latest-stories\">\n\n<p><a data-ga-click=\"\" data-ga-item=\"image\" data-ga-label=\"Snag a Roomba for up to 50% Off at Amazon\" data-ga-position=\"1\" href=\"/home/roomba-sales-black-friday\">\n<img alt=\"An iRobot Roomba on a hardwood floor\" height=\"75\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https://lifehacker.com/imagery/articles/01HF80HF18A4K2WHAAXX7J7FRA/hero-image.fill.size_75x75.v1700003626.png\" width=\"75\"></img>\n</a>\n</p></div>\n</div>\n<hr></hr>\n<div>\n<div data-ga-action=\"latest-stories-stripe\" data-ga-element=\"latest-stories-stripe\" data-ga-module=\"latest-stories\">\n\n<p><a data-ga-click=\"\" data-ga-item=\"image\" data-ga-label=\"These Are the Best Video Game Console Bundle Deals for Black Friday\" data-ga-position=\"2\" href=\"/entertainment/best-video-game-console-deals-for-black-friday\">\n<img alt=\"Playstation 5 Sony home video game console box, Marvel\'s Spider-Man 2 Limited Edition Bundle, on white background\" height=\"75\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https://lifehacker.com/imagery/articles/01HF5ACF1XYS0F11QVSDT18VPX/hero-image.fill.size_75x75.v1699994608.png\" width=\"75\"></img>\n</a>\n</p></div>\n</div>\n<hr></hr>\n</div>\n</div>\n\n</section>\n</div>', 'Even on high-end models, most TV speakers suck. Bad speakers are the reason you might have trouble understanding the dialogue in shows and movies, and you don’t need a surround sound setup to do better—basically any soundbar will do wonders for your TV’s audi…', 'https://i.kinja-img.com/image/upload/c_fill,h_675,pg_1,q_80,w_1200/f3b8b6e1388153ced919f25790ff7545.png', '185', NULL, NULL, '', 'newsapi', NULL, NULL, '2023-11-15', '1373', '0', '0', NULL, NULL, NULL);
INSERT INTO `tbl_article` (`id`, `arttitle`, `artcontent`, `artshortcontent`, `artimg`, `artwebdomain`, `artcat`, `artcatname`, `artcampid`, `arttype`, `artvideoid`, `artytlang`, `artdate`, `uid`, `spintextflag`, `langtransflag`, `artinbuildnewskeyword`, `artnewstype`, `artnewskeyword`) VALUES
(632, 'The Best Ways to Remove Paint Splatters From Any Surface', '<section>\n<section data-ga-module=\"content-body\">\n\n<img alt=\"A man using a paint scraper to remove paint from a wooden windowframe\" height=\"702\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1280px) 100vw, 1280px\" src=\"https://lifehacker.com/imagery/articles/01HF2HGWM5VAKZAPPQHTS8PBX7/hero-image.fill.size_1248x702.v1699833574.jpg\" srcset=\"https://lifehacker.com/imagery/articles/01HF2HGWM5VAKZAPPQHTS8PBX7/hero-image.fill.size_400x225.v1699833574.jpg 400w, https://lifehacker.com/imagery/articles/01HF2HGWM5VAKZAPPQHTS8PBX7/hero-image.fill.size_800x450.v1699833574.jpg 800w, https://lifehacker.com/imagery/articles/01HF2HGWM5VAKZAPPQHTS8PBX7/hero-image.fill.size_1248x702.v1699833574.jpg 1600w\" width=\"1248\"></img>\n<p><span>Credit: JoannaTkaczuk - Shutterstock</span>\n</p>\n<article data-autopogo=\"\">\n<hr></hr>\n<p>No matter how careful you are with your DIY paint job, there’s a good chance a few drops will end up where you don’t want them, such as on your tile floor or dripping down a glass window pane. While this can certainly be annoying, and potentially require a few extra hours of labor, with the right knowhow, paint stains and splatters can be removed from most surfaces.<br></br></p><p><strong>Note:</strong> when working with either paint or removal chemicals, be sure to use protective gear, such as gloves, a mask, and eye protection, and ensure the area is well-ventilated. </p><h2>How to remove paint from carpet</h2><p>The faster you can <a href=\"https://www.homedepot.com/c/ah/how-to-get-paint-out-of-carpet/9ba683603be9fa5395fab90dbc74f95\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"(opens in a new window)\">attack a paint stain on your carpet</a>, the better: Wet paint is generally easier to remove than dry. If the paint is still wet, start by using a paper towel or cloth to blot and remove the excess paint—but do not scrub. If the stain has dried, start by scraping away large chunks with a utility knife and running a vacuum over the area.</p><p>If the stain is from latex paint, moisten the carpet with hot water and a few drops of mild dish soap. Work it into a lather using a stiff brush and scrub until the stain begins to dissolve. Follow up with a handheld carpet cleaner/steamer. </p><p>If you’ve got stains from oil-based paint, start with several passes with a carpet cleaner and cleaning solution. Then blot the stain with a cleaning cloth and a few drops of paint remover, acetone, white vinegar, or hydrogen peroxide (test first to see the effect on your carpet color, and be sure to ventilate the room well). This may take some time, but once the stain has lessened or disappeared, clean thoroughly with carpet shampoo. </p><h2>How to remove paint from wood</h2><p>There are <a href=\"https://www.homedepot.com/c/ab/how-to-remove-paint-from-wood/9ba683603be9fa5395fab9012cd1ea0f\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"(opens in a new window)\">several methods for removing paint</a> drops and stains from wood. If you’re covering a large surface, a heat gun will loosen paint (as well as varnish and other finishes) so you can scrape it off en masse, wipe clean, and follow up with a denatured alcohol wash. Another option is a chemical paint stripper, which will allow you to scrape away softened paint—just be sure to follow the instructions on the packaging, and finish with an abrasive pad or nylon. </p><p>Finally, you can sand using sandpaper or a power sander, but note that this method creates a lot of dust and can damage the wood if not done carefully. Sand in the direction of the grain, and wipe with a damp cloth. </p><h2>How to remove paint from hardwood floors</h2><p>Note that hardwood floors may take a bit more care than other wood, and like carpet, the type of paint that’s spilled matters. For water-based paint, <a href=\"https://www.bobvila.com/articles/how-to-remove-paint/\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"(opens in a new window)\">Bob Vila recommends</a> scrubbing with a solution of 2 cups water with several drops of dish soap followed by a 3:1 rubbing alcohol and lemon juice solution applied with a microfiber cloth. </p><p>If the paint is oil-based, you’ll likely need to use a paint thinner instead. </p><h2>How to remove paint from concrete</h2><p>To remove paint spills from concrete, start by loosening the dried paint with a scraper or stiff brush. Then apply a chemical paint stripper following the manufacturer’s instructions, and finish by pressure washing the affected area. Acetone can also be effective for oil-based, acrylic, and enamel paints—apply, soak, scrub, rinse, repeat. </p><h2>How to remove paint from glass</h2><p>The first step to removing paint from glass, such as a window pane, is to scrub with a rag soaked in hot white vinegar. If paint remains, switch to a solution of warm water and dish soap to lubricate the glass, then use a razor blade or scraper at a 45-degree angle to <em>gently</em> lift the paint off the surface. Finish with a glass cleaner. </p><h2><strong>How to remove paint from tile</strong></h2><p>For paint drips on your tile floors or a tile backsplash, start by scraping using a razor blade or utility knife just as you would with glass. If needed, follow with vinegar, a paste of baking soda and water, or a commercial paint remover that’s formulated for your tile and the paint type. </p><h2>How to remove paint from vinyl </h2><p>If there’s wet paint on your vinyl or linoleum flooring, use dish soap and warm water to remove as much as you can. If you have dried flecks or drops, start with a plastic scraper. For stubborn spots, <a href=\"https://www.reddit.com/r/CleaningTips/comments/11ldsur/how_to_clean_paint_splatters_off_vinyl_flooring/\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"(opens in a new window)\">Redditors recommend</a> scrubbing with isopropyl alcohol, Goo Gone, or Simple Green—paint remover may be necessary for oil-based paint or vinegar for latex paint, though both may damage the floor if not cleaned up quickly.</p><h2>How to remove paint from brick</h2><p>The safest way to remove paint from brick is with a gel or paste paint stripper and fabric strips. Leave the chemical remover to soak in following the manufacturer’s instructions—as the paint softens, it sticks to the fabric and peels away. Note that this may take several rounds plus some scraping or scrubbing with a stiff-bristled brush.</p>\n</article>\n\n</section>\n\n</section>', 'No matter how careful you are with your DIY paint job, there’s a good chance a few drops will end up where you don’t want them, such as on your tile floor or dripping down a glass window pane. While this can certainly be annoying, and potentially require a fe…', 'https://i.kinja-img.com/image/upload/c_fill,f_auto,fl_progressive,g_center,h_675,pg_1,q_80,w_1200/de8c4ea0f41bbbeb55214a039616ae5a.jpg', '185', NULL, NULL, '', 'newsapi', NULL, NULL, '2023-11-15', '1373', '0', '0', NULL, NULL, NULL),
(633, 'This Oraimo Cordless Stick Vacuum Sucks (in a Good Way)', '<section>\n<section data-ga-module=\"content-body\">\n\n<p>\nWe may earn a commission from links on this page.\n</p>\n<img alt=\"This Oraimo Cordless Stick Vacuum Sucks (in a Good Way)\" height=\"702\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1280px) 100vw, 1280px\" src=\"https://lifehacker.com/imagery/articles/01HF2H38SV1REZTWEXPT5KR1Q0/hero-image.fill.size_1248x702.v1699836172.jpg\" srcset=\"https://lifehacker.com/imagery/articles/01HF2H38SV1REZTWEXPT5KR1Q0/hero-image.fill.size_400x225.v1699836172.jpg 400w, https://lifehacker.com/imagery/articles/01HF2H38SV1REZTWEXPT5KR1Q0/hero-image.fill.size_800x450.v1699836172.jpg 800w, https://lifehacker.com/imagery/articles/01HF2H38SV1REZTWEXPT5KR1Q0/hero-image.fill.size_1248x702.v1699836172.jpg 1600w\" width=\"1248\"></img>\n<p><span>Credit: Stephen Johnson</span>\n</p>\n<article data-autopogo=\"\">\n<hr></hr>\n<p><a href=\"https://zdcs.link/7Lw8D?pageview_type=Standard&amp;template=article&amp;module=content-body&amp;element=offer&amp;item=text-link&amp;element_label=The%20Oraimo%20OSV-225A&amp;short_url=7Lw8D&amp;u=https%3A%2F%2Flifehacker.com%2Foraimo-osv-225a-cordless-stick-vacuum-review-1850895582\" rel=\"nofollow sponsored\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"(opens in a new window)\">The Oraimo OSV-225A</a> cordless stick vacuum really sucks. Get it? Because it’s a vacuum cleaner? I’m kidding, of course, but in another way, I’m <em>dead serious</em>: This cordless vacuum sucks up dirt, cat hair, detritus, mites, dust, little bits of things, and just about anything else bedeviling your carpets, floors, and rugs. It’s light and portable enough to clean the cobwebs from the ceiling, rechargeable with a simple power cord, and it’s self-standing, so you can just toss it in the closet instead of futzing around with a special stand or recharging station. Overall: It’s very good. Is it the best vacuum on earth? No. But it does its job admirably and dependably for a reasonable price.<br></br></p><h2><strong>Stats</strong></h2><ul><li><p><strong>Size</strong>: 43.3 x 9.8 x 7.9 inches</p></li><li><p><strong>Weight</strong>: 5.29 pounds</p></li><li><p><strong>Power Adapter output</strong>: 26.5V</p></li><li><p><strong>Battery Capacity</strong>: 21.GV</p></li><li><p><strong>Rated Power</strong>: 270 Watts, 60 Air Watts</p></li><li><p><strong>Price</strong>: $159.99</p></li></ul><h2><strong>Pros</strong></h2><ul><li><p>Ease of use</p></li><li><p>Lightweight</p></li></ul><h2><strong>Cons</strong></h2><ul><li><p>Lack of suction power compared to corded vacuums</p></li></ul><h2><strong>Sucking things up with my Oraimo</strong></h2><div>\n<p><img alt=\"Lifehacker Image\" height=\"1126\" loading=\"lazy\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1408px) 100vw, 1408px\" src=\"https://lifehacker.com/imagery/articles/01HF2H38SV1REZTWEXPT5KR1Q0/images-1.fill.size_2000x1126.v1699836172.jpg\" srcset=\"https://lifehacker.com/imagery/articles/01HF2H38SV1REZTWEXPT5KR1Q0/images-1.fill.size_800x450.v1699836172.jpg 800w, https://lifehacker.com/imagery/articles/01HF2H38SV1REZTWEXPT5KR1Q0/images-1.fill.size_1400x788.v1699836172.jpg 1400w, https://lifehacker.com/imagery/articles/01HF2H38SV1REZTWEXPT5KR1Q0/images-1.fill.size_2000x1126.v1699836172.jpg 2000w\" width=\"2000\"></img>\n</p>\n<p><span></span>\n<span>Credit: Stephen Johnson</span>\n</p>\n</div>\n<p>We like to keep the floors clean at my house, so we normally rock a<a href=\"https://zdcs.link/Z4LLg?pageview_type=Standard&amp;template=article&amp;module=content-body&amp;element=offer&amp;item=text-link&amp;element_label=Dyson%20Ball%20Animal%202%20Total%20Clean.&amp;short_url=Z4LLg&amp;u=https%3A%2F%2Flifehacker.com%2Foraimo-osv-225a-cordless-stick-vacuum-review-1850895582\" rel=\"nofollow sponsored\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"(opens in a new window)\"> Dyson Ball Animal 2 Total Clean.</a> It’s a corded vacuum that’s extremely powerful—a serious vacuum for serious people. But the Ball Animal makes vacuuming a whole production—it’s heavy, you have to plug it in, it’s loud, etc. This new Oraimo, though? It makes vacuuming a super-easy non-production.<br></br></p><p>The OSV-225A takes up very little space in a closet, and when you spot some errant dust, you can just whip it out and take care of it in three seconds, without having to lug a heavy machine around—it weighs only about five pounds compared to a Dyson’s 17 pounds. You won’t have to search for an open electrical outlet, either, saving countless precious seconds of your life; and while it isn’t whisper-quiet, it’s not airplane-loud either. </p><p>In ergonomic terms, it’s light and maneuverable. You can change directions with an easy twist of your wrist. It’s effortless to set up—all the attachments snap together in an intuitive way that won’t require any thought. The attachments work as you’d expect; the crevice nozzle lets you get into small spaces and the dusting attachment is great at dusting. Speaking of: the OSV-225A can be used like one of those old school Dustbusters: the stick assembly can be snapped off, and you can suck things up with just the business end. It’s has three speed settings—“eco,â€ “standard,â€ and “maxâ€—but let’s be honest: You’re going to only use max power. The LED light on the front is nice for highlighting the grime and seeing what’s under the coffee table. It takes about two and half hours to fully charge the device’s lithium battery and it runs for about two and half hours, give or take. You can snap out the battery and charge it separately from the main unit, too, although I see little reason to. </p><p>The Oraimo features a four-inch LED display so you can tell how much power is left in the battery. It also alerts you if something’s not working right: It will tell you if the HEPA filter isn’t attached, if the air ducts or rollers are clogged, and what power level you’re using. It could probably do without the display, but it looks high tech and actually kind of cool.</p><div>\n<p><img alt=\"Lifehacker Image\" height=\"1123\" loading=\"lazy\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1408px) 100vw, 1408px\" src=\"https://lifehacker.com/imagery/articles/01HF2H38SV1REZTWEXPT5KR1Q0/images-2.fill.size_2000x1123.v1699836172.jpg\" srcset=\"https://lifehacker.com/imagery/articles/01HF2H38SV1REZTWEXPT5KR1Q0/images-2.fill.size_800x449.v1699836172.jpg 800w, https://lifehacker.com/imagery/articles/01HF2H38SV1REZTWEXPT5KR1Q0/images-2.fill.size_1400x786.v1699836172.jpg 1400w, https://lifehacker.com/imagery/articles/01HF2H38SV1REZTWEXPT5KR1Q0/images-2.fill.size_2000x1123.v1699836172.jpg 2000w\" width=\"2000\"></img>\n</p>\n<p><span></span>\n<span>Credit: Stephen Johnson</span>\n</p>\n</div>\n<p>The collection basket is large enough that it doesn’t need to be emptied every time you use it, and it’s simple to empty. You can clean the HEPA filters with a little running water too.<br></br></p><h2><strong>How well does the Oraimo OSV-225A clean?</strong></h2><p>The most important aspect of a vacuum is how well it cleans. I’ve been using the OSV-225A around the house about every day for several weeks to dust the bookcase, sweep the kitchen floor, and for spot cleaning jobs here and there. It works great. As a test, I threw some dry rice on carpet and hardwood floors, and the vacuum sucked up every grain easily, even on its lowest power setting. But it is not the right tool to vacuum a huge space, and I can feel the lack of power compared to my Dyson. </p><p>A vacuum’s suction power is measured in “<a href=\"https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Airwatt\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"(opens in a new window)\">air watts</a>,â€ a measurement of the energy per unit time of the air flowing through an opening. The OSV-225A has 60 air watts of suction power, lower than most corded vacuums, but in cleaning terms, the relative lack of suction is only noticeable on the edges of things. Where a Dyson’s 290 air watts can suck up things on the floor next to the rug and things on the rug at the same time, the Oraimo is one or the other. But the Oraimo is not designed for deep cleaning. It’s great as a replacement for a broom or as a tool for dusting a bookcase, but it’s not going to suck out the dog hair that’s deeply embedded in your couch, and you’ll have comfort and ergonomic problem vacuuming the wall-to-wall shag carpeting in your 1,000 sq. ft. living room. </p><p>Overall, this is a versatile, lightweight, easy-to-use cordless stick vacuum that packs a surprising amount of power in its small package. It’s reasonably priced at $159, too. It’s not going to take the place of a full-size vacuum for heavier jobs, but if you spill a handful of rice on the kitchen, it’s all you need.</p><p>You can buy the <a href=\"https://zdcs.link/68LPj?pageview_type=Standard&amp;template=article&amp;module=content-body&amp;element=offer&amp;item=text-link&amp;element_label=Oraimo%20OSV-225A%20on%20Amazon&amp;short_url=68LPj&amp;u=https%3A%2F%2Flifehacker.com%2Foraimo-osv-225a-cordless-stick-vacuum-review-1850895582\" rel=\"nofollow sponsored\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"(opens in a new window)\">Oraimo OSV-225A on Amazon</a>, or check out <a href=\"https://www.oraimo.com/\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"(opens in a new window)\">the official site.</a> <br></br></p>\n</article>\n\n</section>\n\n</section><div data-ga-module=\"content-footer\">\n<section>\n<div>\n<div>\n<div>\n<div>\n<div>\n<div>\n<p><img alt=\"Stephen Johnson\" height=\"150\" src=\"https://lifehacker.com/imagery/authors/01HF2FBDNBRVCFA9C8GPD4C5FA/image.fill.size_150x150.v1699901091.jpg\" width=\"150\"></img>\n</p>\n</div>\n</div>\n<div>\n<p>Stephen Johnson</p>\n<p>Staff Writer</p>\n<div>\n<p>Stephen Johnson is a Staff Writer for Lifehacker where he covers pop culture, including two weekly columns “The Out of Touch Adults’ Guide to Kid Cultureâ€ and “What People are Getting Wrong this Week.â€ He graduated from Emerson College with a BFA in Writing, Literature, and Publishing.</p><p>Previously, Stephen was Managing Editor at NBC/Universal’s G4TV. While at G4, he won a Telly Award for writing and was nominated for a Webby award. Stephen has also written for Blumhouse, FearNET, Performing Songwriter magazine, NewEgg, AVN, GameFly, Art Connoisseur International magazine, Fender Musical Instruments, Hustler Magazine, and other outlets. His work has aired on Comedy Central and screened at the Sundance International Film Festival, Palm Springs International Film Festival, and Chicago Horror Film Festival. He lives in Los Angeles, CA.</p>\n</div>\n<p><a href=\"/author/stephenjohnson\">Read Stephen\'s full bio</a></p><ul>\n<li>\n<a aria-label=\"Visit Stephen\'s Facebook\" href=\"http://facebook.com/StephenAJohnson\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"Find on Facebook (Opens in a new tab)\">\n<svg>\n<use href=\"/images/icons/spritemap.svg#sprite-social-facebook\"></use>\n</svg>\n</a>\n</li>\n<li>\n<a aria-label=\"Visit Stephen\'s Twitter\" href=\"https://twitter.com/@steveajohnson\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"Find on Twitter (Opens in a new tab)\">\n<svg>\n<use href=\"/images/icons/spritemap.svg#sprite-social-twitter\"></use>\n</svg>\n</a>\n</li>\n<li>\n<a aria-label=\"Send Stephen an email\" href=\"/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#86f5ece9eee8f5e9e8c6eaefe0e3eee7e5ede3f4a8e5e9eb\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"Send an Email (Opens in a new tab)\">\n<svg>\n<use href=\"/images/icons/spritemap.svg#sprite-envelope\"></use>\n</svg>\n</a>\n</li>\n</ul>\n</div>\n</div>\n</div>\n</div>\n<div>\n\n<div>\n<div data-ga-action=\"latest-stories-stripe\" data-ga-element=\"latest-stories-stripe\" data-ga-module=\"latest-stories\">\n\n<p><a data-ga-click=\"\" data-ga-item=\"image\" data-ga-label=\"The Leonid Meteor Shower Is Coming This Weekend\" data-ga-position=\"1\" href=\"/science/leonid-showers-viewing\">\n<img alt=\"The Leonids Meteor Shower\" height=\"75\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https://lifehacker.com/imagery/articles/01HF7R9EPW17N86Z126PD3AZ0Z/hero-image.fill.size_75x75.v1699993664.png\" width=\"75\"></img>\n</a>\n</p></div>\n</div>\n<hr></hr>\n<div>\n<div data-ga-action=\"latest-stories-stripe\" data-ga-element=\"latest-stories-stripe\" data-ga-module=\"latest-stories\">\n\n<p><a data-ga-click=\"\" data-ga-item=\"image\" data-ga-label=\"How to Protect Your Parents From Elder Fraud and Scams\" data-ga-position=\"2\" href=\"/family/protect-parents-and-grandparents-from-elder-fraud\">\n<img alt=\"Elderly hands make a cellphone call\" height=\"75\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https://lifehacker.com/imagery/articles/01HF6ATK70H63S210BGDTN9RR0/hero-image.fill.size_75x75.v1699945991.jpg\" width=\"75\"></img>\n</a>\n</p></div>\n</div>\n<hr></hr>\n</div>\n</div>\n\n</section>\n</div>', 'The Oraimo OSV-225A cordless stick vacuum really sucks. Get it? Because it’s a vacuum cleaner? I’m kidding, of course, but in another way, I’m dead serious: This cordless vacuum sucks up dirt, cat hair, detritus, mites, dust, little bits of things, and just a…', 'https://i.kinja-img.com/image/upload/c_fill,h_675,pg_1,q_80,w_1200/0e64f4acb08e16e674734279ff9ec4da.jpg', '185', NULL, NULL, '', 'newsapi', NULL, NULL, '2023-11-15', '1373', '0', '0', NULL, NULL, NULL),
(634, 'How to Grow (Good) Weed Indoors', '<section>\n<section data-ga-module=\"content-body\">\n\n<p>\nWe may earn a commission from links on this page.\n</p>\n<img alt=\"How to Grow (Good) Weed Indoors\" height=\"702\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1280px) 100vw, 1280px\" src=\"https://lifehacker.com/imagery/articles/01HF2HGMYB2T5ERJ9J8390WHNA/hero-image.fill.size_1248x702.v1699833589.jpg\" srcset=\"https://lifehacker.com/imagery/articles/01HF2HGMYB2T5ERJ9J8390WHNA/hero-image.fill.size_400x225.v1699833589.jpg 400w, https://lifehacker.com/imagery/articles/01HF2HGMYB2T5ERJ9J8390WHNA/hero-image.fill.size_800x450.v1699833589.jpg 800w, https://lifehacker.com/imagery/articles/01HF2HGMYB2T5ERJ9J8390WHNA/hero-image.fill.size_1248x702.v1699833589.jpg 1600w\" width=\"1248\"></img>\n<p><span>Credit: Canna Obscura - Shutterstock</span>\n</p>\n<article data-autopogo=\"\">\n<hr></hr>\n<p>If you don’t live in a sunny climate where cannabis grows well without much intervention—in other words, if you live in most of the country—you can be forgiven for not trying to grow your own weed.<br></br></p><p>Even though cannabis is legal in so many places, it’s not available everywhere. Even in legal states, most counties prohibit sales and shops, and taxes can run as high as 29% in some cities for recreational purchases.</p><p>Cannabis is expensive, whether you have access or not, but is growing it the solution for your wallet or your schedule?</p><p>Depending on where you live and how you set up, outdoor growing might be a possibility. Pretty much anywhere cannabis is legal, as long as you have supplemental lighting, you can grow anywhere from a few nugs to a few pounds.</p><p>Indoor growing is an investment, however. You can’t just put a seed in some potting soil and see what happens—you need a game plan, and you need gear. We’re going to talk about everything you need to grow as a beginner, from lights, to tools, to fully automated setups.</p><h2><strong>Gather your goods</strong></h2><p>You can do one plant at a time, or up to six plants in a medium-sized tent. Indoor cannabis can be grown in a soil medium like any other plant, or it can be grown hydroponically with just water. The gear you purchase will depend on these choices, but lights, nutrients, pruning shears, a fan, and possibly a dehumidifier and portable heater are non-negotiable necessities.</p><p>Some gear suggestions:<br></br></p><ul><li><p><a href=\"https://zdcs.link/drel6?pageview_type=Standard&amp;template=article&amp;module=content-body&amp;element=offer&amp;item=text-link&amp;element_label=Grow%20tent&amp;short_url=drel6&amp;u=https%3A%2F%2Flifehacker.com%2Fhow-to-grow-good-weed-indoors-1850931994\" rel=\"nofollow sponsored\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"(opens in a new window)\">Grow tent</a></p></li><li><p><a href=\"https://zdcs.link/BYM54?pageview_type=Standard&amp;template=article&amp;module=content-body&amp;element=offer&amp;item=text-link&amp;element_label=Grow%20light&amp;short_url=BYM54&amp;u=https%3A%2F%2Flifehacker.com%2Fhow-to-grow-good-weed-indoors-1850931994\" rel=\"nofollow sponsored\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"(opens in a new window)\">Grow light</a></p></li><li><p><a href=\"https://zdcs.link/gkvd0?pageview_type=Standard&amp;template=article&amp;module=content-body&amp;element=offer&amp;item=text-link&amp;element_label=Dehumidifier&amp;short_url=gkvd0&amp;u=https%3A%2F%2Flifehacker.com%2Fhow-to-grow-good-weed-indoors-1850931994\" rel=\"nofollow sponsored\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"(opens in a new window)\">Dehumidifier </a></p></li><li><p><a href=\"https://zdcs.link/kkBv0?pageview_type=Standard&amp;template=article&amp;module=content-body&amp;element=offer&amp;item=text-link&amp;element_label=Nutrients&amp;short_url=kkBv0&amp;u=https%3A%2F%2Flifehacker.com%2Fhow-to-grow-good-weed-indoors-1850931994\" rel=\"nofollow sponsored\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"(opens in a new window)\">Nutrients</a></p></li></ul><div>\n<p><img alt=\"Lifehacker Image\" height=\"750\" loading=\"lazy\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1408px) 100vw, 1408px\" src=\"https://lifehacker.com/imagery/articles/01HF2HGMYB2T5ERJ9J8390WHNA/images-1.fill.size_621x750.v1699833589.jpg\" srcset=\"https://lifehacker.com/imagery/articles/01HF2HGMYB2T5ERJ9J8390WHNA/images-1.fill.size_800x966.v1699833589.jpg 800w, https://lifehacker.com/imagery/articles/01HF2HGMYB2T5ERJ9J8390WHNA/images-1.fill.size_1400x1691.v1699833589.jpg 1400w, https://lifehacker.com/imagery/articles/01HF2HGMYB2T5ERJ9J8390WHNA/images-1.fill.size_2000x2416.v1699833589.jpg 2000w\" width=\"621\"></img>\n</p>\n<p><span></span>\n<span>Credit: Danielle Guercio</span>\n</p>\n</div>\n<p>Retailers like Amazon offer grow kits, which the storefronts often pretend are not for cannabis (even though we all know full well that they are), but you’ll want to research reviews thoroughly to be sure the gear matches with your needs, like space, grow environment, etc.<br></br></p><p>Bundles: </p><ul><li><p><a href=\"https://zdcs.link/VYVxg?pageview_type=Standard&amp;template=article&amp;module=content-body&amp;element=offer&amp;item=text-link&amp;element_label=DIY%20grow%20kit&amp;short_url=VYVxg&amp;u=https%3A%2F%2Flifehacker.com%2Fhow-to-grow-good-weed-indoors-1850931994\" rel=\"nofollow sponsored\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"(opens in a new window)\">DIY grow kit </a></p></li><li><p><a href=\"https://zdcs.link/qePLy?pageview_type=Standard&amp;template=article&amp;module=content-body&amp;element=offer&amp;item=text-link&amp;element_label=Self-assemble%20kit&amp;short_url=qePLy&amp;u=https%3A%2F%2Flifehacker.com%2Fhow-to-grow-good-weed-indoors-1850931994\" rel=\"nofollow sponsored\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"(opens in a new window)\">Self-assemble kit</a></p></li></ul><p>One approach, if you have the funds, is to buy an automated grow box, which is a class of innovation-based electronic devices meant to create perfect conditions and give you notifications for tasks, and are perfect for beginners.</p><p>Self-contained and app-directed growing devices take a lot of the guesswork out of the process. There might be an initial investment of anywhere from $500 to $2000, but you could easily harvest that value from the first two plants alone if you’re successful. Devices like the <a href=\"https://heyabby.com/products/abby-automated-in-door-growbox\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"(opens in a new window)\">Hey Abby grow box</a> even offer a subscription for nutrients, plus most tools needed to get started right when you open the box.</p><p>Building your own DIY grow kit can also become incredibly expensive. Some people invest in climate control, supplemental carbon dioxide, and premium lighting in their basement or closet setups, so weigh how much initial investment matters compared to initial yield—you will get better with each harvest as you learn and can keep harvesting new plants with the same gear repeatedly.</p><p>Without the help of an app, you may want to look for a grow calendar to keep track of things like water changes, trimming cycles, and nutrient schedules.</p><h2><strong>Make some decisions</strong></h2><p>Once you’ve procured the setup to suit your indoor climate, you’ll need to start growing with either a seed or what’s known as a clone.</p><p>Cannabis seeds can be found pretty easily online or purchased from shops in many states, depending on the legality of growing your own, but once you get them to pop, you have to make sure that they are female—a male plant will only grow cannabis seeds, not buds crusted in cannabinoids. </p><div>\n<p><img alt=\"Lifehacker Image\" height=\"750\" loading=\"lazy\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1408px) 100vw, 1408px\" src=\"https://lifehacker.com/imagery/articles/01HF2HGMYB2T5ERJ9J8390WHNA/images-2.fill.size_571x750.v1699833589.jpg\" srcset=\"https://lifehacker.com/imagery/articles/01HF2HGMYB2T5ERJ9J8390WHNA/images-2.fill.size_800x1051.v1699833589.jpg 800w, https://lifehacker.com/imagery/articles/01HF2HGMYB2T5ERJ9J8390WHNA/images-2.fill.size_1400x1839.v1699833589.jpg 1400w, https://lifehacker.com/imagery/articles/01HF2HGMYB2T5ERJ9J8390WHNA/images-2.fill.size_2000x2628.v1699833589.jpg 2000w\" width=\"571\"></img>\n</p>\n<p><span></span>\n<span>Credit: Danielle Guercio</span>\n</p>\n</div>\n<p>Purchases labeled as “feminizedâ€ seeds and clones will take that question off the table most times, but you can still get an errant male, so keep an eye out for seed pods regardless.</p><p>Clones are cannabis plant cuttings with roots, taken from a mother plant that is usually grown from seed. Some dispensaries have clones ready to purchase for between $10 and $30, and they will get you a few weeks closer to flower compared to growing from seed.</p><p>Clones are also easier for beginners, but no matter what strain you purchase, you have to research its characteristics and preferred environment to adjust your setup. Some strains will flower automatically, while others will respond to the light cycles that you give them.</p><p>During the seedling phase, plants will require extra light to help them grow fast and strong, and then they enter the vegetation phase.</p><h2><strong>Vegetation station</strong> </h2><p>For plants that autoflower, the vegetation stage is a set period of weeks. Non-autoflower plants will vegetate as long as the light conditions allow. Most plants need three to eight weeks to vegetate before creating starter buds that become big flower nuggets.</p><p>During this time, you want to keep an eye on how the plant grows in the space that you’re providing to prepare for training. When the plant has five to seven nodes, you snip the top off—what’s called “topping.â€ The energy gets diverted from vertical growth into the existing branches.</p><div>\n<p><img alt=\"Lifehacker Image\" height=\"750\" loading=\"lazy\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1408px) 100vw, 1408px\" src=\"https://lifehacker.com/imagery/articles/01HF2HGMYB2T5ERJ9J8390WHNA/images-3.fill.size_567x750.v1699833589.jpg\" srcset=\"https://lifehacker.com/imagery/articles/01HF2HGMYB2T5ERJ9J8390WHNA/images-3.fill.size_800x1059.v1699833589.jpg 800w, https://lifehacker.com/imagery/articles/01HF2HGMYB2T5ERJ9J8390WHNA/images-3.fill.size_1400x1853.v1699833589.jpg 1400w, https://lifehacker.com/imagery/articles/01HF2HGMYB2T5ERJ9J8390WHNA/images-3.fill.size_2000x2647.v1699833589.jpg 2000w\" width=\"567\"></img>\n</p>\n<p><span></span>\n<span>Credit: Danielle Guercio</span>\n</p>\n</div>\n<p>As your plant gets bigger, prune regularly by gently removing fan leaves with super-sharp and<em> clean</em> (this is important) shears. Fan leaves are the dark green leaves that grow directly out of the stem with a big stem of their own, not the smaller leaves coming out right above them.</p><p>Training a plant means deploying nets, rope, ties, and other things to spread the branches of the plant out so that light can create as many buds as possible down the stems. If they don’t get enough light, they won’t make big buds, only little guys.</p><p>During vegetation, the plants need a regular nutrient schedule to deliver the right combination of plant food to make things grow big and strong, as well as favorable conditions for flowering. Good conditions during vegetation make for great flowers, so no humidity over 60-65%, nothing below 40%, and keep things in between 65-85 degrees ambient temperature.</p><h2><strong>Flower power</strong></h2><p>The plant has entered the flowering stage when you start to see, well, tiny flowers. On cannabis plants, they look like little wisps, growing from the main stem where it joins with the stem of a smaller leaf. They eventually grow up and around these stems like hops, with a cone-like appearance, and it takes six to 12 weeks for these buds to get to full size.</p><div>\n<p><img alt=\"Lifehacker Image\" height=\"750\" loading=\"lazy\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1408px) 100vw, 1408px\" src=\"https://lifehacker.com/imagery/articles/01HF2HGMYB2T5ERJ9J8390WHNA/images-4.fill.size_572x750.v1699833589.jpg\" srcset=\"https://lifehacker.com/imagery/articles/01HF2HGMYB2T5ERJ9J8390WHNA/images-4.fill.size_800x1049.v1699833589.jpg 800w, https://lifehacker.com/imagery/articles/01HF2HGMYB2T5ERJ9J8390WHNA/images-4.fill.size_1400x1836.v1699833589.jpg 1400w, https://lifehacker.com/imagery/articles/01HF2HGMYB2T5ERJ9J8390WHNA/images-4.fill.size_2000x2622.v1699833589.jpg 2000w\" width=\"572\"></img>\n</p>\n<p><span></span>\n<span>Credit: Danielle Guercio</span>\n</p>\n</div>\n<p>If you have an autoflower clone in an automatic grow box, all you have to do is let the box know that you see flowers, but if you’re doing your own light management, you will have to increase nutrients and create a new light schedule, introducing more darkness, which is what the plant would experience in nature as fall approaches.</p><p>With consistent weekly trimming of extra fan leaves, small buds, and small branches towards the bottom of the plant, it will keep ferrying energy to growing big buds on the branches that you kept. Those small branches can be rooted and turned into new clones, and the tiny buds won’t do much and aren’t worth keeping; people call them “larfy buds.â€</p><h2><strong>Important caveats</strong></h2><p>This is when you make sure the humidity levels are just right and it’s not too dry or moist in your cannabis growing environment—something that technology could be a huge help with. Some weather and humidity monitors use Bluetooth to tell you the deal directly on your phone.</p><div>\n<p><img alt=\"Lifehacker Image\" height=\"750\" loading=\"lazy\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1408px) 100vw, 1408px\" src=\"https://lifehacker.com/imagery/articles/01HF2HGMYB2T5ERJ9J8390WHNA/images-5.fill.size_576x750.v1699833589.jpg\" srcset=\"https://lifehacker.com/imagery/articles/01HF2HGMYB2T5ERJ9J8390WHNA/images-5.fill.size_800x1042.v1699833589.jpg 800w, https://lifehacker.com/imagery/articles/01HF2HGMYB2T5ERJ9J8390WHNA/images-5.fill.size_1400x1824.v1699833589.jpg 1400w, https://lifehacker.com/imagery/articles/01HF2HGMYB2T5ERJ9J8390WHNA/images-5.fill.size_2000x2606.v1699833589.jpg 2000w\" width=\"576\"></img>\n</p>\n<p><span></span>\n<span>Credit: Danielle Guercio</span>\n</p>\n</div>\n<p>Proper humidity levels and airflow are crucial to a successful grow, and even growing outside in the best weed regions doesn’t guarantee these conditions.</p><p>Self-contained tech comes with this built-in, often also as a display, and can often alert you of off conditions, but even if you’re using a high-tech or old-school humidity device, you will need to read the number every day.</p><p>Helpful tools:</p><ul><li><p><a href=\"https://zdcs.link/Y1rDo?pageview_type=Standard&amp;template=article&amp;module=content-body&amp;element=offer&amp;item=text-link&amp;element_label=Wireless%20monitor&amp;short_url=Y1rDo&amp;u=https%3A%2F%2Flifehacker.com%2Fhow-to-grow-good-weed-indoors-1850931994\" rel=\"nofollow sponsored\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"(opens in a new window)\">Wireless monitor </a></p></li><li><p><a href=\"https://heyabby.com/products/portable-ph-meter-with-bluetooth\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"(opens in a new window)\">Bluetooth monitor </a></p></li><li><p><a href=\"https://heyabby.com/products/smart-usb-fan-with-app-control\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"(opens in a new window)\">USB fan</a></p></li></ul><p>Having a small dehumidifier and a fan at the ready, or even a portable heating unit on hand, could be the difference between a failed crop and a successful one. Deploy these tweaks as needed to keep things within the range noted above.</p><p>Trim <em>religiously</em>. Not only will excess fan leaves and small buds pull energy away from aroma and THC production, they will also increase the humidity and chance of mold in your grow. Always <a href=\"/how-to-disinfect-your-pruning-tools-and-why-you-should-1850921527\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"open in a new window\">clean your pruning shears</a> before and after any trimming session to prevent cross-contamination.</p><h2><strong>Flush and harvest</strong></h2><p>Researching your strain is crucial here—sativas grow one way, while indicas grow another, and hybrids, autoflowers, and other cultivar differences do different things altogether. If you don’t know how many weeks your plant should be flowering, you could harvest too early or too late, jeopardizing its potency.</p><div>\n<p><img alt=\"Lifehacker Image\" height=\"750\" loading=\"lazy\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1408px) 100vw, 1408px\" src=\"https://lifehacker.com/imagery/articles/01HF2HGMYB2T5ERJ9J8390WHNA/images-6.fill.size_566x750.v1699833589.jpg\" srcset=\"https://lifehacker.com/imagery/articles/01HF2HGMYB2T5ERJ9J8390WHNA/images-6.fill.size_800x1060.v1699833589.jpg 800w, https://lifehacker.com/imagery/articles/01HF2HGMYB2T5ERJ9J8390WHNA/images-6.fill.size_1400x1855.v1699833589.jpg 1400w, https://lifehacker.com/imagery/articles/01HF2HGMYB2T5ERJ9J8390WHNA/images-6.fill.size_2000x2651.v1699833589.jpg 2000w\" width=\"566\"></img>\n</p>\n<p><span></span>\n<span>Credit: Danielle Guercio</span>\n</p>\n</div>\n<p>Think the big moment has arrived? Grab a magnifying glass or high-quality camera. Usually, when the teeny tiny crystals—trichomes—are milky and the small hairs sticking out of the buds, called pistils, have started to turn brown, it’s time to stop fertilizing and prepare for harvest.</p><p>Flushing is a pre-harvest job wherein your plant is only given plain water and no nutrients. This plant diet lasts for at least a week to make sure the nutrients are not present in the buds. One week after flushing, you’re ready for the next step, which is to prepare your harvest for smoking or eating.</p><h2><strong>Dry and cure</strong></h2><p>Cut down your plant and remove any fan leaves present. Snip each branch off with a little bit of cross-stem to act as a hook so you can hang upside down to dry. Drying must happen in a low-moisture environment—this is where the heating element and the dehumidifier might be a big help.</p><div>\n<p><img alt=\"Lifehacker Image\" height=\"1787\" loading=\"lazy\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1408px) 100vw, 1408px\" src=\"https://lifehacker.com/imagery/articles/01HF2HGMYB2T5ERJ9J8390WHNA/images-7.fill.size_2000x1787.v1699833590.jpg\" srcset=\"https://lifehacker.com/imagery/articles/01HF2HGMYB2T5ERJ9J8390WHNA/images-7.fill.size_800x715.v1699833590.jpg 800w, https://lifehacker.com/imagery/articles/01HF2HGMYB2T5ERJ9J8390WHNA/images-7.fill.size_1400x1251.v1699833590.jpg 1400w, https://lifehacker.com/imagery/articles/01HF2HGMYB2T5ERJ9J8390WHNA/images-7.fill.size_2000x1787.v1699833590.jpg 2000w\" width=\"2000\"></img>\n</p>\n<p><span></span>\n<span>Credit: Danielle Guercio</span>\n</p>\n</div>\n<p>Once the moisture content is low enough to let a stem give an audible snap when you bend it, you can start the curing process. The initial cannabis drying round usually takes three to eight days. After things are dried, it’s a good time to manicure the sugary leaves that lie a bit closer to the buds, so you’re only curing flower, not leaves.</p><p>The cannabis curing process allows the cannabinoids in the flower to start to gently age, allowing the naturally present THC-A to convert into smokable THC. It also helps the flowers develop their strong, deep flavor profile, without the overwhelming grassy note that poorly cured cannabis can have.</p><p>Put your stash in clean glass jars to cure, and keep them in a cool place with little light. Make sure each is ⅔ full, and “burpâ€ the jars every day to keep humidity low—simply open the jars for a few minutes each day. Curing can take two to four weeks, depending on the strain and the conditions.</p><div>\n<p><img alt=\"Finished cannabis bud - NYC Piff #3 \" height=\"1888\" loading=\"lazy\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1408px) 100vw, 1408px\" src=\"https://lifehacker.com/imagery/articles/01HF2HGMYB2T5ERJ9J8390WHNA/images-8.fill.size_2000x1888.v1699833590.jpg\" srcset=\"https://lifehacker.com/imagery/articles/01HF2HGMYB2T5ERJ9J8390WHNA/images-8.fill.size_800x755.v1699833590.jpg 800w, https://lifehacker.com/imagery/articles/01HF2HGMYB2T5ERJ9J8390WHNA/images-8.fill.size_1400x1321.v1699833590.jpg 1400w, https://lifehacker.com/imagery/articles/01HF2HGMYB2T5ERJ9J8390WHNA/images-8.fill.size_2000x1888.v1699833590.jpg 2000w\" width=\"2000\"></img>\n</p>\n<p><span></span>\n<span>Credit: Danielle Guercio</span>\n</p>\n</div>\n<p>The best way to test the cure is to taste it by smoking it, so take a little sample every week until you get the desired flavor. Leave any cured cannabis in those sealed jars in a dark place for up to 18 months.</p><p>Each harvest takes 12-18 weeks, and growing your own cannabis is somewhat labor-intensive, but once you get the hang of it, it’s a pretty rewarding hobby. With the average price of an ounce somewhere around $400 to $500 in most markets, harvesting a few ounces at a time from a plant you invested a little bit less money in, but perhaps more time, could save you a lot, depending on your lifestyle and consumption (or sharing) levels. </p>\n</article>\n\n</section>\n\n</section>', 'If you don’t live in a sunny climate where cannabis grows well without much intervention—in other words, if you live in most of the country—you can be forgiven for not trying to grow your own weed.Read more...', 'https://i.kinja-img.com/image/upload/c_fill,f_auto,fl_progressive,g_center,h_675,pg_1,q_80,w_1200/fb1a7309aa382fc5dd34e6a3b2db4622.jpg', '185', NULL, NULL, '', 'newsapi', NULL, NULL, '2023-11-15', '1373', '0', '0', NULL, NULL, NULL),
(635, 'NYU is developing 3D streaming video tech with the help of its dance department', '<div><div><p><a data-ylk=\"elm:author;slk:Will Shanklin;itc:0\" href=\"https://www.engadget.com/about/editors/will-shanklin-1/\"><img alt=\"Will Shanklin\" data-src=\"https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/ZM51UtElvE3frM6m39y.JQ--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTgwO2g9ODA-/https://s.yimg.com/os/creatr-uploaded-images/2023-11/7077b740-7a6a-11ee-bd7c-201615342a39\" src=\"https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/ZM51UtElvE3frM6m39y.JQ--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTgwO2g9ODA-/https://s.yimg.com/os/creatr-uploaded-images/2023-11/7077b740-7a6a-11ee-bd7c-201615342a39\"></img></a></p></div></div><div><p>NYU is <a data-i13n=\"elm:context_link;elmt:doNotAffiliate;cpos:1;pos:1\" data-ylk=\"slk:launching a project;elm:context_link;elmt:doNotAffiliate;cpos:1;pos:1;itc:0\" href=\"https://engineering.nyu.edu/news/nyu-tandon-cuts-rug-new-3d-video-technology\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">launching a project</a> to spur the development of immersive 3D video for dance education — and perhaps other areas. Boosted by a $1.2 million four-year grant from the National Science Foundation, the undertaking will try to make Point-Cloud Video (PCV) tech viable for streaming.</p><p>A point cloud is a set of data points in a 3D space representing the surface of a subject or environment. NYU says Point-Cloud Video, which strings together point-cloud frames into a moving scene, has been under development for the last decade. However, it’s typically too data-intensive for practical purposes, requiring bandwidth far beyond the capabilities of today’s connected devices.</p><p>The researchers plan to address those obstacles by “reducing bandwidth consumption and delivery latency, and increasing power consumption efficiency so that PCVs can be streamed far more easily,â€ according to an NYU Engineering blog post published Monday. Project leader Yong Liu, an NYU electrical and computer engineering professor, believes modern breakthroughs make that possible. “With recent advances in the key enabling technologies, we are now at the verge of completing the puzzle of teleporting holograms of real-world humans, creatures and objects through the global Internet,â€ Liu wrote on Monday.</p><p><a data-i13n=\"cpos:2;pos:1\" data-ylk=\"slk:ChatGPT;cpos:2;pos:1;elm:context_link;itc:0\" href=\"https://www.engadget.com/chatgpt-is-suddenly-everywhere-are-we-ready-180031821.html\">ChatGPT</a> maker OpenAI <a data-i13n=\"cpos:3;pos:1\" data-ylk=\"slk:launched a model;cpos:3;pos:1;elm:context_link;itc:0\" href=\"https://www.engadget.com/openai-releases-point-e-dall-e-3d-text-modeling-210007892.html\">launched a model</a> last year that can create 3D point clouds from text prompts. Engadget reached out to the project leader to clarify whether it or other <a data-i13n=\"cpos:4;pos:1\" data-ylk=\"slk:generative AI;cpos:4;pos:1;elm:context_link;itc:0\" href=\"https://www.engadget.com/tag/generative-ai/\">generative AI</a> tools are part of the process, and we’ll update this article if we hear back.</p><p>The team will test the technology with the NYU Tisch School of the Arts and the Mark Morris Dance Group’s Dance Center. Dancers from both organizations will perform on a volumetric capture stage. The team will stream their movements live and on-demand, offering educational content for aspiring dancers looking to study from high-level performers — and allowing engineers to test and tweak their PCV technology.</p><p>The researchers envision the work opening doors to more advanced <a data-i13n=\"cpos:5;pos:1\" data-ylk=\"slk:VR;cpos:5;pos:1;elm:context_link;itc:0\" href=\"https://www.engadget.com/meta-quest-3-review-mixed-reality-vr-150009788.html\">VR</a> and <a data-i13n=\"cpos:6;pos:1\" data-ylk=\"slk:mixed reality;cpos:6;pos:1;elm:context_link;itc:0\" href=\"https://www.engadget.com/apple-vision-pro-hands-on-a-new-milestone-for-mixed-reality-060943291.html\">mixed reality</a> streaming content. “The success of the proposed research will contribute towards wide deployment of high quality and robust PCV streaming systems that facilitate immersive augmented, virtual and mixed reality experience and create new opportunities in many domains, including education, business, healthcare and entertainment,â€ Liu said.</p><p>“Point-Cloud Video holds tremendous potential to transform a range of industries, and I’m excited that the research team at NYU Tandon prioritized dance education to reap those benefits early,â€ said Jelena KovaÄević, NYU Tandon Dean.</p></div>', 'NYU is launching a project to spur the development of immersive 3D video for dance education — and perhaps other areas. Boosted by a $1.2 million four-year grant from the National Science Foundation, the undertaking will try to make Point-Cloud Video (PCV) te…', 'https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/dZPTMHBkqy1i9MYId6mwkQ--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyMDA7aD02NzU-/https://s.yimg.com/os/creatr-uploaded-images/2023-10/870afab0-7765-11ee-bcec-2b3b0d505156', '185', NULL, NULL, '', 'newsapi', NULL, NULL, '2023-11-15', '1373', '0', '0', NULL, NULL, NULL);
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(636, 'Instagram finally begins testing an option to turn off read receipts', '<div><div><p><a data-ylk=\"elm:author;slk:Sarah Fielding;itc:0\" href=\"https://www.engadget.com/about/editors/sarah-fielding-01/\"><img alt=\"Sarah Fielding\" data-src=\"https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/CgH1XosbzgUdhuX3AFKvjw--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTgwO2g9ODA-/https://o.aolcdn.com/images/dims?image_uri=https%3A%2F%2Fo.aolcdn.com%2Fimages%2Fdims%3Fimage_uri%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Fs.yimg.com%252Fos%252Fcreatr-uploaded-images%252F2023-03%252F05295d70-bd25-11ed-beff-9aa9fea26df1%26compress%3D1%26progressive%3D1%26quality%3D75%26client%3Dhawkeye%26signature%3D2f850ca5cd9ee04a54a51211a12b8b8067963bba&amp;compress=1&amp;progressive=1&amp;quality=75&amp;client=hawkeye&amp;signature=7adb5ebac303551a3f2b76b6a955c5848b324c5a\" src=\"https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/CgH1XosbzgUdhuX3AFKvjw--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTgwO2g9ODA-/https://o.aolcdn.com/images/dims?image_uri=https%3A%2F%2Fo.aolcdn.com%2Fimages%2Fdims%3Fimage_uri%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Fs.yimg.com%252Fos%252Fcreatr-uploaded-images%252F2023-03%252F05295d70-bd25-11ed-beff-9aa9fea26df1%26compress%3D1%26progressive%3D1%26quality%3D75%26client%3Dhawkeye%26signature%3D2f850ca5cd9ee04a54a51211a12b8b8067963bba&amp;compress=1&amp;progressive=1&amp;quality=75&amp;client=hawkeye&amp;signature=7adb5ebac303551a3f2b76b6a955c5848b324c5a\"></img></a></p></div></div><div><p>Providing read receipts has long been a choice across almost every messaging platform. Now, one of the biggest holdouts, Instagram, is finally <a data-i13n=\"cpos:1;pos:1\" data-ylk=\"slk:testing a feature;cpos:1;pos:1;elm:context_link;itc:0\" href=\"https://www.engadget.com/instagrams-latest-test-feature-turns-users-photos-into-stickers-for-reels-and-stories-211046111.html\">testing a feature</a> that lets users hide when they\'ve \"seen\" a message. Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg and Instagram head Adam Mosseri both announced the update on their Instagram Broadcast channels.</p><p>Mosseri also shared an image of how the feature will work. The option will live under the Privacy and Safety tab, accessible by clicking on the person\'s name from inside the chat. From there, a section will appear called \"Who can see your activity.\" Just switch the toggle below and all views moving forward should then become private. However, any messages sent in vanish mode will still have read receipts.</p><figure><div><div><p><img alt=\"How to turn off read receipts on Instagram. \" data-src=\"https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/Q1PlaBfZdq5d.a4sGbEv8Q--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTc2NQ--/https://s.yimg.com/os/creatr-uploaded-images/2023-11/8403f420-7e27-11ee-bffe-f0a91c6227b3\"></img></p></div></div><p><figcaption><span> Meta</span></figcaption></p></figure><p>Whether you open a message with a video and can\'t listen right away or just don\'t want to respond in the moment, there are lots of reasons why <a data-i13n=\"cpos:2;pos:1\" data-ylk=\"slk:hiding your read receipts;cpos:2;pos:1;elm:context_link;itc:0\" href=\"https://www.engadget.com/2014-05-23-iphone-101-turn-off-read-receipts-to-hide-the-fact-that-youve.html\">hiding your read receipts</a> can be beneficial. However, they didn\'t say when the option will roll out to everyone or even how exactly they\'re testing it. Also unclear is if you\'ll have to turn it off for each person or if there will eventually be an overarching option.</p><p>Meta-owned <a data-i13n=\"cpos:3;pos:1\" data-ylk=\"slk:WhatsApp has allowed users to hide their read receipts;cpos:3;pos:1;elm:context_link;itc:0\" href=\"https://www.engadget.com/2014-11-07-whatsapp-read-receipts.html\">WhatsApp has allowed users to hide their read receipts</a> since 2014, but <a data-i13n=\"cpos:4;pos:1\" data-ylk=\"slk:Messenger;cpos:4;pos:1;elm:context_link;itc:0\" href=\"https://www.engadget.com/messenger-is-returning-to-the-facebook-mobile-app-after-nine-years-away-191426674.html\">Messenger</a>, like Instagram, still automatically shows when a message is viewed. Maybe one day all Meta platforms will allow for checking messages discreetly, but until then, we\'ll watch how the Instagram test goes.</p></div>', 'Providing read receipts has long been a choice across almost every messaging platform. Now, one of the biggest holdouts, Instagram, is finally testing a feature that lets users hide when they\'ve \"seen\" a message. Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg and Instagram head Ad…', 'https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/mI1mhBN5dyCxqvRdfFKycQ--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyMDA7aD03NjY-/https://s.yimg.com/os/creatr-uploaded-images/2023-08/9e454ce0-4758-11ee-b7a7-bd94d2bd1e1b', '185', NULL, NULL, '', 'newsapi', NULL, NULL, '2023-11-15', '1373', '0', '0', NULL, NULL, NULL),
(637, 'Rockstar may announce Grand Theft Auto VI this week', '<div><div><p><a data-ylk=\"elm:author;slk:Mariella Moon;itc:0\" href=\"https://www.engadget.com/about/editors/mariella-moon/\"><img alt=\"Mariella Moon\" data-src=\"https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/Q5xM8QRkc.8IiJSGgzI_ew--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTgwO2g9ODA-/https://o.aolcdn.com/images/dims?image_uri=https%3A%2F%2Fo.aolcdn.com%2Fimages%2Fdims%3Fimage_uri%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Fs.blogcdn.com%252Fwww.engadget.com%252Fmedia%252F2017%252F04%252Fprofile-picture.jpg%26compress%3D1%26progressive%3D1%26quality%3D75%26client%3Dhawkeye%26signature%3D080b8c74bc2e0113b04ff3b4d56e855ff565fd24&amp;compress=1&amp;progressive=1&amp;quality=75&amp;client=hawkeye&amp;signature=199c0288bb447e9b8a42ee9c535e057d3cc5b29a\" src=\"https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/Q5xM8QRkc.8IiJSGgzI_ew--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTgwO2g9ODA-/https://o.aolcdn.com/images/dims?image_uri=https%3A%2F%2Fo.aolcdn.com%2Fimages%2Fdims%3Fimage_uri%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Fs.blogcdn.com%252Fwww.engadget.com%252Fmedia%252F2017%252F04%252Fprofile-picture.jpg%26compress%3D1%26progressive%3D1%26quality%3D75%26client%3Dhawkeye%26signature%3D080b8c74bc2e0113b04ff3b4d56e855ff565fd24&amp;compress=1&amp;progressive=1&amp;quality=75&amp;client=hawkeye&amp;signature=199c0288bb447e9b8a42ee9c535e057d3cc5b29a\"></img></a></p></div></div><div><p>We may get official details about <a data-i13n=\"cpos:1;pos:1\" data-ylk=\"slk:Grand Theft Auto VI;cpos:1;pos:1;elm:context_link;itc:0\" href=\"https://www.engadget.com/rockstar-gta-6-confirmed-gta-v-ps-5-xbox-series-x-release-date-162720563.html\"><em>Grand Theft Auto VI</em></a> very, very soon. Following a <a data-i13n=\"cpos:2;pos:1\" data-ylk=\"slk:Bloomberg;cpos:2;pos:1;elm:context_link;itc:0\" href=\"https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2023-11-08/rockstar-plans-to-announce-much-anticipated-grand-theft-auto-vi?sref=10lNAhZ9\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\"><em>Bloomberg</em></a><em> </em>report that said Rockstar Games would announce the next entry in the GTA franchise as early as this week, Rockstar confirmed it would release a trailer for the forthcoming game in early December, as part of its 25th anniversary celebration. It\'s one of the most anticipated games for the current crop of consoles, especially since the fifth main installment in the series — the second-best selling video game of all time, as <em>Bloomberg</em> notes — came out way back in 2013.</p><div><blockquote data-theme=\"light\" placeholder=\"\"><div><p>We are very excited to let you know that in early December, we will release the first trailer for the next Grand Theft Auto. We look forward to many more years of sharing these experiences with all of you.</p><p>Thank you,<br></br>Sam Houser</p></div><p>— Rockstar Games (@RockstarGames) <a data-ylk=\"slk:November 8, 2023;elm:context_link;itc:0\" href=\"https://twitter.com/RockstarGames/status/1722237703553798312?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">November 8, 2023</a></p></blockquote></div><p>While Rockstar has yet to launch the title, some fans may have already gotten a glimpse of early-days gameplay footage due to a <a data-i13n=\"cpos:3;pos:1\" data-ylk=\"slk:leak that a hacker uploaded online;cpos:3;pos:1;elm:context_link;itc:0\" href=\"https://www.engadget.com/rockstar-grand-theft-auto-6-leak-155755703.html\">leak that a hacker uploaded online</a> in 2022. It contained 90 seconds of gameplay from a <em>GTA VI</em> test build, showing one of the two playable protagonists, a female character named Lucia, robbing a store. Another clip showed the other playable character riding the \"Vice City Metro,\" indicating that its story takes place in Rockstar\'s fictionalized version of Miami. The developer later <a data-i13n=\"cpos:4;pos:1\" data-ylk=\"slk:confirmed;cpos:4;pos:1;elm:context_link;itc:0\" href=\"https://www.engadget.com/rockstar-confirms-gta-vi-leak-143918535.html\">confirmed</a> the contents of the leak and said that the game\'s creation would continue \"as planned.\"</p><p>Rockstar may reveal <em>GTA VI\'s</em> release period alongside the trailer next month, but its parent company Take-Two <a data-i13n=\"cpos:5;pos:1\" data-ylk=\"slk:previously hinted;cpos:5;pos:1;elm:context_link;itc:0\" href=\"https://www.engadget.com/take-two-hints-that-grand-theft-auto-vi-is-coming-in-2024-102507050.html\">previously hinted</a> that it\'s coming out sometime in 2024.</p><p><strong>Update, November 8, 2023, 8:15AM ET:</strong> This story has been updated to note that Rockstar has confirmed it\'ll release a trailer for the next Grand Theft Auto game in December.</p></div>', 'We may get official details about Grand Theft Auto VI very, very soon, if Bloomberg\'s report turns out to be true. Rockstar Games plans to announce the next entry in the GTA franchise as early as this week, according to the news organization. Plus, Rockstar i…', 'https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/TYH6zvOkBVpGgKc.AqIJig--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyMDA7aD04MDA-/https://s.yimg.com/os/creatr-uploaded-images/2023-11/2dff92c0-7de9-11ee-af97-93d16a78333b', '185', NULL, NULL, '', 'newsapi', NULL, NULL, '2023-11-15', '1373', '0', '0', NULL, NULL, NULL),
(638, 'Revel is shutting down its shared electric moped service', '<div><div><p><a data-ylk=\"elm:author;slk:Mariella Moon;itc:0\" href=\"https://www.engadget.com/about/editors/mariella-moon/\"><img alt=\"Mariella Moon\" data-src=\"https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/Q5xM8QRkc.8IiJSGgzI_ew--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTgwO2g9ODA-/https://o.aolcdn.com/images/dims?image_uri=https%3A%2F%2Fo.aolcdn.com%2Fimages%2Fdims%3Fimage_uri%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Fs.blogcdn.com%252Fwww.engadget.com%252Fmedia%252F2017%252F04%252Fprofile-picture.jpg%26compress%3D1%26progressive%3D1%26quality%3D75%26client%3Dhawkeye%26signature%3D080b8c74bc2e0113b04ff3b4d56e855ff565fd24&amp;compress=1&amp;progressive=1&amp;quality=75&amp;client=hawkeye&amp;signature=199c0288bb447e9b8a42ee9c535e057d3cc5b29a\" src=\"https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/Q5xM8QRkc.8IiJSGgzI_ew--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTgwO2g9ODA-/https://o.aolcdn.com/images/dims?image_uri=https%3A%2F%2Fo.aolcdn.com%2Fimages%2Fdims%3Fimage_uri%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Fs.blogcdn.com%252Fwww.engadget.com%252Fmedia%252F2017%252F04%252Fprofile-picture.jpg%26compress%3D1%26progressive%3D1%26quality%3D75%26client%3Dhawkeye%26signature%3D080b8c74bc2e0113b04ff3b4d56e855ff565fd24&amp;compress=1&amp;progressive=1&amp;quality=75&amp;client=hawkeye&amp;signature=199c0288bb447e9b8a42ee9c535e057d3cc5b29a\"></img></a></p></div></div><div><p>Revel is leaving behind its roots and ending its (at times controversial) electric moped service New York City and <a data-i13n=\"cpos:1;pos:1\" data-ylk=\"slk:San Francisco;cpos:1;pos:1;elm:context_link;itc:0\" href=\"https://www.engadget.com/revel-san-francisco-expansion-202502570.html?_fsig=IcKZNbaMz0WvOkXnA334xg--%7EA\">San Francisco</a>. Company CEO and co-founder Frank Reig has sent a company-wide email, viewed by <a data-i13n=\"cpos:2;pos:1\" data-ylk=\"slk:TechCrunch;cpos:2;pos:1;elm:context_link;itc:0\" href=\"https://techcrunch.com/2023/11/03/revel-ends-moped-sharing-focuses-on-ev-charging-and-ridehail/\"><em>TechCrunch</em></a>, telling staff that \"the service has been strained and ridership isn\'t what it used to be.\" Revel has also <a data-i13n=\"cpos:3;pos:1\" data-ylk=\"slk:sent out emails;cpos:3;pos:1;elm:context_link;itc:0\" href=\"https://nyc.streetsblog.org/2023/11/03/electric-moped-company-revel-bails-on-two-wheelers-in-full-transition-to-taxis\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">sent out emails</a> to its passengers, notifying them that the service will shut down on November 18 and encouraging them to use their account credits before then.</p><p>As the publication notes, Revel pulled the service out of its other markets in 2022, and only has around 3,000 mopeds operational in NYC and San Francisco. A spokesperson from the company told <em>TechCrunch</em> that ridership has dropped by 30 percent in both remaining cities year-over-year and that it\'s no longer sustainable to keep that segment of its business running.</p><p>Revel temporarily paused its moped service a few times over the years due to safety concerns. In 2020, it suspended the ridesharing solution following an accident wherein two customers were killed while riding its vehicles. It <a data-i13n=\"cpos:4;pos:1\" data-ylk=\"slk:brought back the service;cpos:4;pos:1;elm:context_link;itc:0\" href=\"https://www.theverge.com/2020/8/27/21403937/revel-electric-mopeds-nyc-return-app-safety-test-mandatory-helmet-selfies\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">brought back the service</a> after implementing a mandatory in-app safety test and requiring riders to take a selfie of themselves wearing a helmet. Revel also pulled its mopeds <a data-i13n=\"cpos:5;pos:1\" data-ylk=\"slk:from the Bronx;cpos:5;pos:1;elm:context_link;itc:0\" href=\"https://gothamist.com/news/the-bronx-is-safe-again-for-revel\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">from the Bronx</a> for over a year due to a string of battery thefts.</p><p>Going forward, Revel will focus on its EV ride-hailing service operated by employee drivers across the five boroughs of New York. It also plans to expand its <a data-i13n=\"cpos:6;pos:1\" data-ylk=\"slk:EV fast-charging stations;cpos:6;pos:1;elm:context_link;itc:0\" href=\"https://www.engadget.com/revel-electric-vehicle-fast-charging-stations-new-york-city-154209450.html\">EV fast-charging stations</a> in New York and the Bay Area.</p></div>', 'Revel is leaving behind its roots and ending its (at times controversial) electric moped service New York City and San Francisco. Company CEO and co-founder Frank Reig has sent a company-wide email, viewed by TechCrunch, telling staff that \"the service has be…', 'https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/L52ZFOIJv97OLl8rjENH1w--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyMDA7aD04MDA-/https://s.yimg.com/os/creatr-uploaded-images/2023-11/485a0370-7afc-11ee-b5f6-afb3423667dc', '185', NULL, NULL, '', 'newsapi', NULL, NULL, '2023-11-15', '1373', '0', '0', NULL, NULL, NULL),
(639, 'The first Grand Theft Auto VI trailer will arrive in early December', '<div><div><p><a data-ylk=\"elm:author;slk:Mariella Moon;itc:0\" href=\"https://www.engadget.com/about/editors/mariella-moon/\"><img alt=\"Mariella Moon\" data-src=\"https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/Q5xM8QRkc.8IiJSGgzI_ew--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTgwO2g9ODA-/https://o.aolcdn.com/images/dims?image_uri=https%3A%2F%2Fo.aolcdn.com%2Fimages%2Fdims%3Fimage_uri%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Fs.blogcdn.com%252Fwww.engadget.com%252Fmedia%252F2017%252F04%252Fprofile-picture.jpg%26compress%3D1%26progressive%3D1%26quality%3D75%26client%3Dhawkeye%26signature%3D080b8c74bc2e0113b04ff3b4d56e855ff565fd24&amp;compress=1&amp;progressive=1&amp;quality=75&amp;client=hawkeye&amp;signature=199c0288bb447e9b8a42ee9c535e057d3cc5b29a\" src=\"https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/Q5xM8QRkc.8IiJSGgzI_ew--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTgwO2g9ODA-/https://o.aolcdn.com/images/dims?image_uri=https%3A%2F%2Fo.aolcdn.com%2Fimages%2Fdims%3Fimage_uri%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Fs.blogcdn.com%252Fwww.engadget.com%252Fmedia%252F2017%252F04%252Fprofile-picture.jpg%26compress%3D1%26progressive%3D1%26quality%3D75%26client%3Dhawkeye%26signature%3D080b8c74bc2e0113b04ff3b4d56e855ff565fd24&amp;compress=1&amp;progressive=1&amp;quality=75&amp;client=hawkeye&amp;signature=199c0288bb447e9b8a42ee9c535e057d3cc5b29a\"></img></a></p></div></div><div><p>We may get official details about <a data-i13n=\"cpos:1;pos:1\" data-ylk=\"slk:Grand Theft Auto VI;cpos:1;pos:1;elm:context_link;itc:0\" href=\"https://www.engadget.com/rockstar-gta-6-confirmed-gta-v-ps-5-xbox-series-x-release-date-162720563.html\"><em>Grand Theft Auto VI</em></a> very, very soon. Following a <a data-i13n=\"cpos:2;pos:1\" data-ylk=\"slk:Bloomberg;cpos:2;pos:1;elm:context_link;itc:0\" href=\"https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2023-11-08/rockstar-plans-to-announce-much-anticipated-grand-theft-auto-vi?sref=10lNAhZ9\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\"><em>Bloomberg</em></a><em> </em>report that said Rockstar Games would announce the next entry in the GTA franchise as early as this week, Rockstar confirmed it would release a trailer for the forthcoming game in early December, as part of its 25th anniversary celebration. It\'s one of the most anticipated games for the current crop of consoles, especially since the fifth main installment in the series — the second-best selling video game of all time, as <em>Bloomberg</em> notes — came out way back in 2013.</p><div><blockquote data-theme=\"light\" placeholder=\"\"><div><p>We are very excited to let you know that in early December, we will release the first trailer for the next Grand Theft Auto. We look forward to many more years of sharing these experiences with all of you.</p><p>Thank you,<br></br>Sam Houser</p></div><p>— Rockstar Games (@RockstarGames) <a data-ylk=\"slk:November 8, 2023;elm:context_link;itc:0\" href=\"https://twitter.com/RockstarGames/status/1722237703553798312?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">November 8, 2023</a></p></blockquote></div><p>While Rockstar has yet to launch the title, some fans may have already gotten a glimpse of early-days gameplay footage due to a <a data-i13n=\"cpos:3;pos:1\" data-ylk=\"slk:leak that a hacker uploaded online;cpos:3;pos:1;elm:context_link;itc:0\" href=\"https://www.engadget.com/rockstar-grand-theft-auto-6-leak-155755703.html\">leak that a hacker uploaded online</a> in 2022. It contained 90 seconds of gameplay from a <em>GTA VI</em> test build, showing one of the two playable protagonists, a female character named Lucia, robbing a store. Another clip showed the other playable character riding the \"Vice City Metro,\" indicating that its story takes place in Rockstar\'s fictionalized version of Miami. The developer later <a data-i13n=\"cpos:4;pos:1\" data-ylk=\"slk:confirmed;cpos:4;pos:1;elm:context_link;itc:0\" href=\"https://www.engadget.com/rockstar-confirms-gta-vi-leak-143918535.html\">confirmed</a> the contents of the leak and said that the game\'s creation would continue \"as planned.\"</p><p>Rockstar may reveal <em>GTA VI\'s</em> release period alongside the trailer next month, but its parent company Take-Two <a data-i13n=\"cpos:5;pos:1\" data-ylk=\"slk:previously hinted;cpos:5;pos:1;elm:context_link;itc:0\" href=\"https://www.engadget.com/take-two-hints-that-grand-theft-auto-vi-is-coming-in-2024-102507050.html\">previously hinted</a> that it\'s coming out sometime in 2024.</p><p><strong>Update, November 8, 2023, 8:15AM ET:</strong> This story has been updated to note that Rockstar has confirmed it\'ll release a trailer for the next Grand Theft Auto game in December.</p></div>', 'We may get official details about Grand Theft Auto VI very, very soon. Following a Bloomberg that said Rockstar Games would announce the next entry in the GTA franchise as early as this week, Rockstar confirmed it would release a trailer for the forthcoming g…', 'https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/TYH6zvOkBVpGgKc.AqIJig--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyMDA7aD04MDA-/https://s.yimg.com/os/creatr-uploaded-images/2023-11/2dff92c0-7de9-11ee-af97-93d16a78333b', '185', NULL, NULL, '', 'newsapi', NULL, NULL, '2023-11-15', '1373', '0', '0', NULL, NULL, NULL),
(640, 'Microsofts Windows 11 2023 update rolls out, bringing Copilot AI to more users', '<div><div><p><a data-ylk=\"elm:author;slk:Devindra Hardawar;itc:0\" href=\"https://www.engadget.com/about/editors/devindra-hardawar/\"><img alt=\"Devindra Hardawar\" data-src=\"https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/ViLjw5lpNTKdgPieBYrT7w--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTgwO2g9ODA-/https://o.aolcdn.com/images/dims?image_uri=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.blogcdn.com%2Fwww.engadget.com%2Fmedia%2F2016%2F03%2Fdevindra-engadget-headshot-small.jpg&amp;compress=1&amp;progressive=1&amp;quality=75&amp;client=hawkeye&amp;signature=7f46155899176210e42f7ec9fc60f1f8f5af91c9\" src=\"https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/ViLjw5lpNTKdgPieBYrT7w--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTgwO2g9ODA-/https://o.aolcdn.com/images/dims?image_uri=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.blogcdn.com%2Fwww.engadget.com%2Fmedia%2F2016%2F03%2Fdevindra-engadget-headshot-small.jpg&amp;compress=1&amp;progressive=1&amp;quality=75&amp;client=hawkeye&amp;signature=7f46155899176210e42f7ec9fc60f1f8f5af91c9\"></img></a></p></div></div><div><p>Today Microsoft has begun rolling out its <a data-i13n=\"cpos:1;pos:1\" data-ylk=\"slk:Windows 11 2023 update;cpos:1;pos:1;elm:context_link;itc:0\" href=\"https://blogs.windows.com/windowsexperience/?p=178531\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Windows 11 2023 update</a> (also known as version 23H2), which adds some minor features on top of <a data-i13n=\"cpos:2;pos:1\" data-ylk=\"slk:Copilot;cpos:2;pos:1;elm:context_link;itc:0\" href=\"https://www.engadget.com/microsoft-copilot-heres-everything-you-need-to-know-about-the-companys-ai-assistant-130004909.html\">Copilot </a>and its other AI-powered apps <a data-i13n=\"cpos:3;pos:1\" data-ylk=\"slk:announced in September;cpos:3;pos:1;elm:context_link;itc:0\" href=\"https://www.engadget.com/windows-copilot-ai-starts-rolling-out-september-26-143148644.html\">announced in September</a>.</p><p>Now, you may be asking yourself, \"Didn\'t Microsoft just release a major Windows 11 update?\" And you would be correct. But it turns out that release, which launched on September 26th, was basically just an AI preview meant for last year\'s Windows 11 22H2 update. Consequently, Copilot didn\'t actually reach most Windows users over the past few weeks (I eventually got it in a test laptop, but my home desktop is still Copilot-less).</p><p>It\'s fair to be confused, because Microsoft\'s handling of Copilot has been baffling from the start. We first heard it was <a data-i13n=\"cpos:4;pos:1\" data-ylk=\"slk:arriving as &quot;Windows Copilot&quot;;cpos:4;pos:1;elm:context_link;itc:0\" href=\"https://www.engadget.com/microsoft-windows-copilot-ai-panos-panay-interview-150044298.html\">arriving as \"Windows Copilot\"</a> back in May, where it essentially put the AI features we saw on the Edge Copilot and similar tools right into the heart of Windows. Copilot ended up being the star of <a data-i13n=\"cpos:5;pos:1\" data-ylk=\"slk:Microsoft\'s most recent Surface event;cpos:5;pos:1;elm:context_link;itc:0\" href=\"https://www.engadget.com/microsoft-surface-2023-liveblog-live-updates-130031998.html\">Microsoft\'s most recent Surface event</a>, where the actual hardware took second place to the company\'s AI ambitions.</p><p>So if you\'ve been dying to get your hands on Copilot, be sure to start refreshing Windows Update. Additionally, the Windows 11 2023 update transforms the built-in Chat app into Microsoft Teams, which will sit in your task bar by default. You\'ll also be able to find Windows 11 components under a new \"System\" label in the Start menu\'s \"All apps\" section (something I rarely visit these days). Those System Components will also be under a new page in the Settings app under the System section.</p></div>', 'Today Microsoft has begun rolling out its Windows 11 2023 update (also know as version 23H2), which adds some minor features on top of Copilot and its other AI-powered apps announced in September. Now, you may be asking yourself, \"Didn\'t Microsoft just releas…', 'https://s.yimg.com/os/creatr-uploaded-images/2023-10/50b31d80-77f6-11ee-aff5-87e9675bd377', '185', NULL, NULL, '', 'newsapi', NULL, NULL, '2023-11-15', '1373', '0', '0', NULL, NULL, NULL),
(641, 'YouTube may soon let musicians lend their AI voices to creators', '<div><div><p><a data-ylk=\"elm:author;slk:Mariella Moon;itc:0\" href=\"https://www.engadget.com/about/editors/mariella-moon/\"><img alt=\"Mariella Moon\" data-src=\"https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/Q5xM8QRkc.8IiJSGgzI_ew--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTgwO2g9ODA-/https://o.aolcdn.com/images/dims?image_uri=https%3A%2F%2Fo.aolcdn.com%2Fimages%2Fdims%3Fimage_uri%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Fs.blogcdn.com%252Fwww.engadget.com%252Fmedia%252F2017%252F04%252Fprofile-picture.jpg%26compress%3D1%26progressive%3D1%26quality%3D75%26client%3Dhawkeye%26signature%3D080b8c74bc2e0113b04ff3b4d56e855ff565fd24&amp;compress=1&amp;progressive=1&amp;quality=75&amp;client=hawkeye&amp;signature=199c0288bb447e9b8a42ee9c535e057d3cc5b29a\" src=\"https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/Q5xM8QRkc.8IiJSGgzI_ew--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTgwO2g9ODA-/https://o.aolcdn.com/images/dims?image_uri=https%3A%2F%2Fo.aolcdn.com%2Fimages%2Fdims%3Fimage_uri%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Fs.blogcdn.com%252Fwww.engadget.com%252Fmedia%252F2017%252F04%252Fprofile-picture.jpg%26compress%3D1%26progressive%3D1%26quality%3D75%26client%3Dhawkeye%26signature%3D080b8c74bc2e0113b04ff3b4d56e855ff565fd24&amp;compress=1&amp;progressive=1&amp;quality=75&amp;client=hawkeye&amp;signature=199c0288bb447e9b8a42ee9c535e057d3cc5b29a\"></img></a></p></div></div><div><p>YouTube creators may be able to upload music that sounds like it was actually sang by famous musicians one day. According to <a data-i13n=\"cpos:1;pos:1\" data-ylk=\"slk:Billboard;cpos:1;pos:1;elm:context_link;itc:0\" href=\"https://www.billboard.com/pro/youtube-developing-ai-tool-creators-sound-like-musicians/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\"><em>Billboard</em></a> and <a data-i13n=\"cpos:2;pos:1\" data-ylk=\"slk:Bloomberg;cpos:2;pos:1;elm:context_link;itc:0\" href=\"https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2023-10-18/openai-is-in-talks-to-sell-shares-at-an-86-billion-valuation?sref=10lNAhZ9\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\"><em>Bloomberg</em></a>, the video hosting platform is developing an artificial intelligence tool that can mimic the voice of recording artists. It was also hoping to introduce the feature during its Made On YouTube event in September, where it debuted other <a data-i13n=\"cpos:3;pos:1\" data-ylk=\"slk:AI-powered creator tools;cpos:3;pos:1;elm:context_link;itc:0\" href=\"https://www.engadget.com/youtubes-upcoming-ai-powered-creator-tools-include-a-generative-green-screen-203144786.html\">AI-powered creator tools</a> including a generative green screen. Obviously, its plan didn\'t push through, and it was apparently because negotiating with recording companies is taking time. The technology is new, after all, and there are a lot of questions that need to be answered first.</p><p><em>Billboard</em> says one of the key issues they\'re still hashing out is how monetization would work. Will artists be paid for the music YouTube feeds its AI model, or for the output made using the AI tool? Further, how would songwriters be compensated for any of their music used to train YouTube\'s AI? Recording companies still reportedly have questions about how the AI model is trained, as well, and about how artists will have the power to opt in or out. If and when the tool does come out, YouTube intends to beta test it first by giving a select group of creators access to the voices of artists who opt in.</p><p>While negotiations are taking time, recording companies are receptive to YouTube\'s idea, according to the sources. That\'s because they\'re looking at the use of AI in music as an inevitability, and they\'re concerned about getting left behind if they resist licensing deals like what YouTube is offering. As <em>Bloomberg</em> notes, though, YouTube is walking a tricky path and may have to brace itself for legal issues in its quest to explore the use of generative AI in music. OpenAI, for instance, had been <a data-i13n=\"cpos:4;pos:1\" data-ylk=\"slk:sued;cpos:4;pos:1;elm:context_link;itc:0\" href=\"https://www.reuters.com/legal/john-grisham-other-top-us-authors-sue-openai-over-copyrights-2023-09-20/#:~:text=Sept%2020%20(Reuters)%20%2D%20A,unlawfully%20training%20its%20popular%20artificial%2D\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">sued</a> by a group of authors, including John Grisham and George R.R. Martin, for the alleged use of their novels to train its large language model.</p></div>', 'YouTube creators may be able to upload music that sounds like it was actually sang by famous musicians one day. According to Billboard and Bloomberg, the video hosting platform is developing an artificial intelligence tool that can mimic the voice of recordin…', 'https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/O6u4HRRgvnEuQdl8dIwWaQ--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyMDA7aD04MDA-/https://s.yimg.com/os/creatr-uploaded-images/2023-10/94739570-6e61-11ee-bbfa-2224553eaf58', '185', NULL, NULL, '', 'newsapi', NULL, NULL, '2023-11-15', '1373', '0', '0', NULL, NULL, NULL),
(642, 'NVIDIAs Eos supercomputer just broke its own AI training benchmark record', '<div><p>Depending on the hardware you\'re using, training a large language model of any significant size can take weeks, months, even years to complete. That\'s no way to do business — nobody has the electricity and time to be waiting that long. On Wednesday, NVIDIA unveiled the newest iteration of its Eos supercomputer, one powered by more than 10,000 H100 Tensor Core GPUs and capable of training a 175 billion-parameter GPT-3 model on 1 billion tokens in under four minutes. That\'s three times faster than the previous benchmark on the <a data-i13n=\"cpos:1;pos:1\" data-ylk=\"slk:MLPerf AI industry standard;cpos:1;pos:1;elm:context_link;itc:0\" href=\"https://www.nvidia.com/en-us/data-center/resources/mlperf-benchmarks/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">MLPerf AI industry standard</a>, which NVIDIA set just six months ago.</p><p>Eos represents an enormous amount of compute. It leverages 10,752 GPUs strung together using <a data-i13n=\"cpos:2;pos:1\" data-ylk=\"slk:NVIDIA\'s Infiniband networking;cpos:2;pos:1;elm:context_link;itc:0\" href=\"https://www.nvidia.com/en-us/networking/products/infiniband/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">NVIDIA\'s Infiniband networking</a> (moving a petabyte of data a second) and 860 terabytes of high bandwidth memory (36PB/sec aggregate bandwidth and 1.1PB sec interconnected) to deliver <em>40 exaflops</em> of AI processing power. The entire cloud architecture is comprised of 1344 nodes — individual servers that companies can rent access to for around $37,000 a month to expand their AI capabilities without building out their own infrastructure.</p><p>In all, NVIDIA set six records in nine benchmark tests: the 3.9 minute notch for GPT-3, a 2.5 minute mark to to train a Stable Diffusion model using 1,024 Hopper GPUs<strong>, </strong>a minute even to train DLRM, 55.2 seconds for RetinaNet, 46 seconds for 3D U-Net and the BERT-Large model required just 7.2 seconds to train.</p><p>NVIDIA was quick to note that the 175 billion parameter version of GPT-3 used in the benchmarking is not the full-sized iteration of the model (neither was the Stable Diffusion model). The larger GPT-3 offers around 3.7 trillion parameters and is just flat out too big and unwieldy for use as a benchmarking test. For example, it\'d take 18 months to train it on the older A100 system with 512 GPUs — though, Eos needs just eight days.</p><p>So instead, NVIDIA and MLCommons, which administers the MLPerf standard, leverage a more compact version that uses 1 billion tokens (the smallest denominator unit of data that generative AI systems understand). This test uses a GPT-3 version with the same number of potential switches to flip (s the full-size (those 175 billion parameters), just a much more manageable data set to use in it (a billion tokens vs 3.7 trillion).</p><p>The impressive improvement in performance, granted, came from the fact that this recent round of tests employed 10,752 H100 GPUs compared to the 3,584 Hopper GPUs <a data-i13n=\"cpos:3;pos:1\" data-ylk=\"slk:the company used in June\'s benchmarking trials;cpos:3;pos:1;elm:context_link;itc:0\" href=\"https://blogs.nvidia.com/blog/2023/06/27/generative-ai-debut-mlperf/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">the company used in June\'s benchmarking trials</a>. However NVIDIA explains that despite tripling the number of GPUs, it managed to maintain 2.8x scaling in performance — an 93 percent efficiency rate — through the generous use of software optimization.</p><p>\"Scaling is a wonderful thing,\" Salvator said.\"But with scaling, you\'re talking about more infrastructure, which can also mean things like more cost. An efficiently scaled increase means users are \"making the best use of your of your infrastructure so that you can basically just get your work done as fast [as possible] and get the most value out of the investment that your organization has made.\"</p><p>The chipmaker was not alone in its development efforts. Microsoft\'s Azure team submitted a similar 10,752 H100 GPU system for this round of benchmarking, and achieved results within two percent of NVIDIA\'s.</p><p>\"[The Azure team have] been able to achieve a performance that\'s on par with the Eos supercomputer,\" Dave Salvator Director of Accelerated Computing Products at NVIDIA, told reporters during a Tuesday prebrief. What\'s more \"they are using Infiniband, but this is a commercially available instance. This isn\'t some pristine laboratory system that will never have actual customers seeing the benefit of it. This is the actual instance that Azure makes available to its customers.\"</p><p>NVIDIA plans to apply these expanded compute abilities to a variety of tasks, including the company\'s ongoing work in foundational model development, AI-assisted GPU design, neural rendering, multimodal generative AI and autonomous driving systems.</p><p>\"Any good benchmark looking to maintain its market relevance has to continually update the workloads it\'s going to throw at the hardware to best reflect the market it\'s looking to serve,\" Salvator said, noting that MLCommons has recently added an additional benchmark for testing model performance on Stable Diffusion tasks. \"This is another exciting area of generative AI where we\'re seeing all sorts of things being created\" — from programming code to discovering protein chains.</p><p>These benchmarks are important because, as Salvator points out, the current state of generative AI marketing can a bit of a \"Wild West.\" The lack of stringent oversight and regulation means, \"we sometimes see with certain AI performance claims where you\'re not quite sure about all the parameters that went into generating those particular claims.\" MLPerf provides the professional assurance that the benchmark numbers companies generate using its tests \"were reviewed, vetted, in some cases even challenged or questioned by other members of the consortium,\" Salvator said. \"It\'s that sort of peer reviewing process that really brings credibility to these results.\"</p><p>NVIDIA has been steadily focusing on its AI capabilities and applications in recent months. \"We are at the iPhone moment for AI,\" CEO Jensen Huang <a data-i13n=\"cpos:4;pos:1\" data-ylk=\"slk:said during his GTC keynote in March;cpos:4;pos:1;elm:context_link;itc:0\" href=\"https://www.engadget.com/nvidia-gtc-ai-dgx-cloud-161517378.html\">said during his GTC keynote in March</a>. At that time the company announced its DGX cloud system which portions out slivers of the supercomputer\'s processing power — specifically by either eight H100 or A100 chips running 60GB of VRAM (640 of memory in total). The company expanded its supercomputing portfolio with <a data-i13n=\"cpos:5;pos:1\" data-ylk=\"slk:the release of DGX GH200;cpos:5;pos:1;elm:context_link;itc:0\" href=\"https://www.engadget.com/nvidias-next-dgx-supercomputer-is-all-about-generative-ai-043053544.html\">the release of DGX GH200</a> at Computex in May.</p></div>', 'Depending on the hardware you\'re using, training a large language model of any significant size can take weeks, months, even years to complete. That\'s no way to do business — nobody has the electricity and time to be waiting that long. On Wednesday, NVIDIA un…', 'https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/UAWmyqxFcUVSo9T7sNyt1A--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyMDA7aD02Mzg-/https://s.yimg.com/os/creatr-uploaded-images/2023-11/824d6160-7da1-11ee-aebf-0bbe0425da2a', '185', NULL, NULL, '', 'newsapi', NULL, NULL, '2023-11-15', '1373', '0', '0', NULL, NULL, NULL);
