AI companions: A threat to love, or an evolution of it?

As AI companions from companies like Replika, Character AI, and Nomi AI abound, love is no longer strictly human. In this debate, we ask the question of whether it should be, or whether dating an AI could be better than dating a human.

Continue ReadingAI companions: A threat to love, or an evolution of it?

The biggest changes coming to your iPhone with iOS 26

Apple recently announced iOS 26, the next major software update for iPhones, and it’s packed with a whole bunch of new features. The biggest change is a new design, but there are lots of smaller improvements and additions as well that could make a difference in how you use your iPhone every day. If you […]

Continue ReadingThe biggest changes coming to your iPhone with iOS 26

Apple’s Liquid Glass redesign is shaping up to be a snoozer on Macs

Apple's macOS Tahoe 26 public beta is finally available, and with it the same Liquid Glass design language that's coming to the rest of Apple's operating systems. It's a simultaneously weird yet milquetoast update. I've been testing the developer beta on an M4 MacBook Air since WWDC in June, and after using it through to […]

Continue ReadingApple’s Liquid Glass redesign is shaping up to be a snoozer on Macs

You can actually multitask on an iPad now and it’s the best new feature in 15 years

I've gone back and forth over the years on whether or not I can actually work from an iPad. The answer has always been: sort of. I can write on an iPad. I can edit on an iPad. So, I guess I've always been able to "work" from an iPad. But with a Magic Keyboard […]

Continue ReadingYou can actually multitask on an iPad now and it’s the best new feature in 15 years

watchOS 26 preview: a subtler take on AI

Apple just launched the watchOS 26 public beta, which means everyone can now try the latest software heading to the Apple Watch this fall. That includes new Apple Intelligence features, such as Workout Buddy, new messaging features, the Wrist Flick gesture, and more. I've been using the developer beta and have some thoughts to share. […]

Continue ReadingwatchOS 26 preview: a subtler take on AI

Apple releases public betas of its new software updates with Liquid Glass

Apple has officially released the first public betas for its next major software updates. The list of new betas includes iOS 26, iPadOS 26, macOS Tahoe 26, watchOS 26, and tvOS 26. The biggest thing you’ll notice about the software updates is that they have a new design language Apple is calling “Liquid Glass.” The […]

Continue ReadingApple releases public betas of its new software updates with Liquid Glass

Satya Nadella seeks to reassure Microsoft employees in layoffs memo

Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella didn’t send a company-wide memo when the software maker laid off as many as 9,000 employees earlier this month. Now, Nadella is finally addressing what’s on many Microsoft employee’s minds: layoffs. “I want to speak to what’s been weighing heavily on me, and what I know many of you are thinking […]

Continue ReadingSatya Nadella seeks to reassure Microsoft employees in layoffs memo

The ICJ Rules That Failing to Combat Climate Change Could Violate International Law

In a landmark ruling, the International Court of Justice declared that failure to act on climate change can be an “internationally wrongful act”—meaning countries could face legal consequences for harming the planet.

Continue ReadingThe ICJ Rules That Failing to Combat Climate Change Could Violate International Law

Google’s Pixel Watch 4 might charge on its side

Google’s rumored Pixel Watch 4 may charge on its side rather than on its back, based on leaked official renders of the watch published by Android Headlines. The watch may also get a roughly 25 percent improvement in charging speed over the Pixel Watch 3. Without charging contacts on the back, the Pixel Watch 4 […]

Continue ReadingGoogle’s Pixel Watch 4 might charge on its side

A Premium Luggage Service’s Web Bugs Exposed the Travel Plans of Every User—Including Diplomats

Security flaws in Airportr, a door-to-door luggage checking service used by 10 airlines, let hackers access user data and even gain privileges that would have let them redirect or steal luggage.

Continue ReadingA Premium Luggage Service’s Web Bugs Exposed the Travel Plans of Every User—Including Diplomats

OpenAI prepares to launch GPT-5 in August

Earlier this year, I heard that Microsoft engineers were preparing server capacity for OpenAI's next-generation GPT-5 model, arriving as soon as late May. After some additional testing and delays, sources familiar with OpenAI's plans tell me that GPT-5 is now expected to launch as early as next month. OpenAI CEO Sam Altman recently revealed on […]

Continue ReadingOpenAI prepares to launch GPT-5 in August

Preston Thorpe is a software engineer at a San Fransisco startup. He’s also serving his eleventh year in prison.

A senior software engineer for Turso, Thorpe is part of an experimental program in the Maine state prison system that allows incarcerated people to work remote jobs from custody.

Continue ReadingPreston Thorpe is a software engineer at a San Fransisco startup. He’s also serving his eleventh year in prison.

Google’s shortened goo.gl links will stop working next month

Google will officially deprecate links generated with its URL shortening tool next month. On August 25th, 2025, all links in the “https://goo.gl/*” format will no longer work and return a 404 error message. Google shut down its URL shortener in 2019, citing “changes we’ve seen in how people find content on the internet.” Links created […]

Continue ReadingGoogle’s shortened goo.gl links will stop working next month

Spotify takes a swing at gaming with a mini golf game ahead of ‘Happy Gilmore 2’ release

Netflix and Spotify teamed up to launch a golf-inspired game as a way to promote “Happy Gilmore 2,” which premieres on Netflix this Friday.

Continue ReadingSpotify takes a swing at gaming with a mini golf game ahead of ‘Happy Gilmore 2’ release

Everything we think we know about the Pixel 10 phones

Google is readying its next set of hardware announcements, and has already confirmed that the Pixel 10 series is launching next month. We even know what one of the phones looks like, thanks to the official image up above. But beyond the few tidbits Google has shared officially, there’s an awful lot more we think […]

Continue ReadingEverything we think we know about the Pixel 10 phones

An Inventor Is Injecting Bleach Into Cancerous Tumors—and Wants to Bring the Treatment to the US

A Chinese man with no medical training is injecting cancer patients with a toxic bleach solution; a full course of treatment runs $20,000. He’s now working to bring the unproven treatment to the US.

Continue ReadingAn Inventor Is Injecting Bleach Into Cancerous Tumors—and Wants to Bring the Treatment to the US

Here’s your first look at Battlefield 6

It’s been a long time coming, but EA is finally ready to show off the next Battlefield. The new game, dubbed Battlefield 6, takes place during some kind of wide-ranging war; the debut trailer opens with a presidential address punctuated by explosions and destruction that seem to be happening all over the world. There’s not […]

Continue ReadingHere’s your first look at Battlefield 6

Samsung backs a video AI startup that can analyze thousands of hours of footage

Memories.ai's platform can process up to 10 million hours of video. For companies with a lot of video to analyze, the startup wants to provide a contextual layer, complete with searchable indexing, tagging, segments and aggregation.

Continue ReadingSamsung backs a video AI startup that can analyze thousands of hours of footage

AI slop and fake reports are exhausting some security bug bounties

"We're getting a lot of stuff that looks like gold, but it's actually just crap,” said the founder of one security testing firm. AI-generated security vulnerability reports are already having an effect on bug hunting, for better and worse.

Continue ReadingAI slop and fake reports are exhausting some security bug bounties

Apple’s latest AirPods Max for $100 off is a great back-to-school deal

It’s annoying to think about school starting in the middle of summer, but we’ve already begun to see glimpses of back-to-school deals, including a discount on the AirPods Max (USB-C) that brings them down to $449.99 ($100 off) at Amazon, Best Buy, and Walmart.  Apple’s latest over-ear headphones share many features with its earbuds, but […]

Continue ReadingApple’s latest AirPods Max for $100 off is a great back-to-school deal

The VTuber world is in crisis over ‘owed’ donations

On July 21st, 6,669-year-old demon queen Ironmouse,  posted an 11-minute video explaining that she is leaving her talent management agency, VShojo. Ironmouse is a VTuber, or “virtual YouTuber” — a type of a streamer who doesn’t typically show their human face, instead creating elaborate digital personas to create content. “I recently found out that for […]

Continue ReadingThe VTuber world is in crisis over ‘owed’ donations

Figma’s AI app building tool is now available for everyone

Figma Make, the prompt-to-app coding tool that Figma introduced earlier this year, is now available for all users. Similar to AI coding tools like Google’s Gemini Code Assist and Microsoft’s GitHub Copilot, Figma Make allows users to build working prototypes and apps using natural language descriptions, instead of needing to have innate coding skills. While […]

Continue ReadingFigma’s AI app building tool is now available for everyone

The once most-overlooked Fujifilm camera might become my favorite

Right now, there are five Fujifilm cameras that are using the exact same 40MP sensor. So picking the right one for you can be confusing, but fret not. Most Fuji cameras offer similar results, and your choice might come down to just the form factor. The good news is that Fujifilm's latest camera, the X-E5, […]

Continue ReadingThe once most-overlooked Fujifilm camera might become my favorite

Indiegogo is getting acquired by Gamefound, a board game crowdfunding company

Indiegogo is being acquired by the board game crowdfunding platform Gamefound, which plans on “integrating Indiegogo’s global community of 38 million members with Gamefound’s state-of-the-art crowdfunding technology,” the companies announced this morning. Gamefound has built “the best tech in crowdfunding, hands down,” Indiegogo CEO Julie dePontbriand tells The Verge. “By joining forces, we’re aligning with […]

Continue ReadingIndiegogo is getting acquired by Gamefound, a board game crowdfunding company

We are not ready for better deepfakes

If you’re like me, then lately you’ve scrolled past something on social media and thought, “Wait, was that real?” Deepfakes are everywhere, and they’re getting a lot more convincing.  That brings me to my Decoder guest today: Gaurav Misra, the CEO of Captions. You may not have heard of Captions yet, but you’ve probably seen […]

Continue ReadingWe are not ready for better deepfakes

iRobot’s new Roomba could solve the roller mop’s biggest problem

iRobot’s first roller mop-equipped robovac has a unique trick to help keep your carpets dry. Announced this week, the Roomba Max 705 Combo is an upgraded version of the robovac iRobot launched in April, offering a “first-of-its-kind” mop cover that it automatically deploys when cleaning carpets. Unlike with mopping pads, many robovacs with roller mops […]

Continue ReadingiRobot’s new Roomba could solve the roller mop’s biggest problem

Google AI Mode will generate fake clothes to help you buy real ones

Google is injecting more generative AI into its online shopping experience in Search. An upcoming feature for AI Mode will generate images of outfits and decor ideas based on user descriptions, to help people find visually similar products. Also launching is a new tool that allows people to virtually try on clothes. The new AI […]

Continue ReadingGoogle AI Mode will generate fake clothes to help you buy real ones

Snapchat will notify your friends when you’ve made it home safe

Snapchat is launching a new Home Safe feature that makes it easier to inform your loved ones when you have arrived safely after making your way home. Building on the app’s existing location capabilities, Snapchat’s Home Safe allows you to send an automatic alert to chat conversations with friends to let them know you’re back […]

Continue ReadingSnapchat will notify your friends when you’ve made it home safe

Amazon is launching a cheaper color Kindle

After launching the Kindle Colorsoft last year — its first Kindle with a color screen — Amazon is adding two new iterations of the e-reader to its lineup today: a cheaper Colorsoft with 16GB of storage for $249.99 and a kids-focused bundle for $269.99. The Kindle Colorsoft Signature Edition will still be available for $279.99.  […]

Continue ReadingAmazon is launching a cheaper color Kindle

AppleCare One is a good deal, but not for everyone

Apple announced some big changes to its device protection plans this week with the introduction of AppleCare One. The new service lets you protect three devices for $19.99 per month. That means things like your Apple TV, AirPods Max, and iPad can be covered under one plan at a cost that doesn't fluctuate. And every […]

Continue ReadingAppleCare One is a good deal, but not for everyone

Channel Taylor Swift’s WAGS Style With the Pleated Skirt She Was Spotted In

Taylor Swift may not dress like your typical WAG. Her look is more ’90s rom-com heroine than Instagram glam, but just as camera-ready. Case in point: The plaid mini skirt she wore to a Chiefs game last December. And right now, it’s on sale. It’s sweet, preppy and slightly nostalgic. It’s the kind of outfit […]

Continue ReadingChannel Taylor Swift’s WAGS Style With the Pleated Skirt She Was Spotted In

Ozzy Osbourne ‘Held Out’ for Last Black Sabbath Gig Before Death: Bandmate

Ozzy Osbourne’s Black Sabbath bandmate Tony Iommi is sharing his memories of the late rocker. Osbourne died at age 76 on Tuesday, July 22, following a battle with Parkinson’s disease. Just weeks before his death, he reunited with Iommi, Bill Ward and Geezer Butler for one final Black Sabbath concert at Villa Park stadium in […]

Continue ReadingOzzy Osbourne ‘Held Out’ for Last Black Sabbath Gig Before Death: Bandmate

Netflix Is Now Streaming This Bingeworthy Mystery Show You’ve Never Heard Of

Unless you subscribed to Starz in the last five years, the crime drama Hightown may have flown completely under your radar. This series debuted on Starz in 2020, and it had a three-season run before reaching a satisfying conclusion. Now, Hightown is streaming on Netflix for the first time ever. Hightown isn’t some R-rated police […]

Continue ReadingNetflix Is Now Streaming This Bingeworthy Mystery Show You’ve Never Heard Of

17 Smocked Dresses That Are So Comfy and Flattering, No One Will Know You’re Bloated

Putting on a dress should get you excited, but we get it: a bloated tummy totally crushes the mood and makes a loungewear set seem like the best option. Luckily, you don’t have to sacrifice style for comfort when you’re bloated. Amazon’s fashion section is overflowing with smocked dresses that cinch without squeezing, giving you […]

Continue Reading17 Smocked Dresses That Are So Comfy and Flattering, No One Will Know You’re Bloated

What Idaho Victims’ Surviving Roommates Said at Bryan Kohberger’s Sentencing

The surviving roommates of the four University of Idaho students murdered by Bryan Kohberger spoke out at his sentencing hearing on Wednesday, July 23. Kohberger, 30, was sentenced to four consecutive life sentences after pleading guilty earlier this month to the murders of Maddie Mogen, Kaylee Goncalves, Xana Kernodle and Ethan Chapin. Mogen, Goncalves and […]

Continue ReadingWhat Idaho Victims’ Surviving Roommates Said at Bryan Kohberger’s Sentencing

Itch.io follows Steam in removing adult games

The indie-focused open gaming marketplace Itch.io has abruptly deindexed adult content from its browse and search pages, warning that some games will be permanently removed from the platform. In a blog post on Thursday, Itch.io creator Leaf Corcoran said that the update was due to concerns that the website’s payment processors had “about the nature […]

Continue ReadingItch.io follows Steam in removing adult games

Love Anne Hathaway’s Chic Vest Set? Copy the Look for $56

The Devil Wears Prada 2 is now in production, and thanks to Anne Hathaway, aka Andy Sachs, we now have a glimpse into the film’s gorgeous fashion looks! Just this week, Hathaway posted a first-look photo from the film with the caption “Andy Sachs 2025,” and we’re downright obsessed with her picture-perfect pinstripe suit! Lucky […]

Continue ReadingLove Anne Hathaway’s Chic Vest Set? Copy the Look for $56

Lisa Vanderpump Hits Back at Scheana Shay Over TV Exploitation Comments

Lisa Vanderpump is firing back at former Vanderpump Rules costar Scheana Shay. Shay, 40, recently accused Vanderpump, 64, of using “my real-life pain to launch her TV empire,” alleging that the restaurateur knew about Shay’s affair with actor Eddie Cibrian before Shay filmed with Cibrian’s ex, Brandi Glanville, on The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills. […]

Continue ReadingLisa Vanderpump Hits Back at Scheana Shay Over TV Exploitation Comments

19 Preppy East Coast-Style Dresses to Cleverly Flatter Large Busts

If you have a large bust, you know the struggle of finding a chic summer dress that’s equal parts comfortable, classy and flattering. Most flowy dresses tent out while tight-fitting ones squeeze or highlight insecurities. The key is finding a dress that offers support and drapes over the midsection to balance your silhouette — and […]

Continue Reading19 Preppy East Coast-Style Dresses to Cleverly Flatter Large Busts

Gisele Bundchen Shares Rare Glimpse of Baby as She Celebrates Turning 45

Gisele Bündchen is sharing a rare glimpse of her new baby. The Brazilian supermodel took to Instagram on Wednesday, July 23, to celebrate her 45th birthday and included some snaps of her newborn, whom she welcomed with boyfriend Joaquim Valente in February. The sweet pics include her little one hanging out with her family and […]

Continue ReadingGisele Bundchen Shares Rare Glimpse of Baby as She Celebrates Turning 45

Freddie Prinze Jr. Jokes He Got Matthew Lillard A Lot of ‘Work’

Freddie Prinze Jr. thinks he should be getting more credit for Matthew Lillard’s career. In a Men’s Health “Stress Test” video, which was published on Wednesday, July 23,  Prinze Jr was grilled about which of his past film and TV shows caused him stress when he made the remark. Prinze Jr, 49, has starred alongside […]

Continue ReadingFreddie Prinze Jr. Jokes He Got Matthew Lillard A Lot of ‘Work’

Who Were Bryan Kohberger’s Idaho Murder Victims?

Bryan Kohberger will spend life in prison without parole for murdering four university students. Kohberger, 30, was sentenced to four lifetimes in prison on Wednesday, July 23, after he broke into a house in Moscow, Idaho in November, 22, killing four of the six people in the 1122 King Road home they shared. Maddie Mogen, […]

Continue ReadingWho Were Bryan Kohberger’s Idaho Murder Victims?

Kelly Osbourne’s Video of Dad Ozzy Enjoying Family Time Resurfaces

Ozzy Osbourne enjoyed sweet moments with his family days before his death, a resurfaced video filmed by daughter Kelly shows. The clip was reportedly posted by Kelly via her Instagram Story on Sunday July 20, just two days before her dad’s death, according to the Daily Mail on Wednesday, July 23. The touching footage showed […]

Continue ReadingKelly Osbourne’s Video of Dad Ozzy Enjoying Family Time Resurfaces

Jessica Simpson Pushes Through Wardrobe Malfunction on ‘Today’

Jessica Simpson isn’t letting a little wardrobe mishap get in the way of her comeback! The singer, 44, suffered a wardrobe malfunction on the Wednesday, July 23 edition of Today when she took to the stage with new music after a 15-year hiatus. During the show, she performed a medley of her past hits, such […]

Continue ReadingJessica Simpson Pushes Through Wardrobe Malfunction on ‘Today’