Consumer safety groups are demanding an FTC investigation into Grok’s ‘Spicy’ mode

A new letter to the Federal Trade Commission, and US attorneys general for all 50 states and the District of Columbia, calls for an urgent investigation into Elon Musk's Grok - especially its new "Imagine" tool for AI-generated image and video. The tool, released by xAI earlier this month, encourages users to create NSFW content […]

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Meta’s AI policies let chatbots get romantic with minors

In an internal policy document, Meta included policies that allowed its AI chatbots to flirt and speak with children using romantic language, according to a report from Reuters.  Quotes from the document highlighted by Reuters include letting Meta’s AI chatbots “engage a child in conversations that are romantic or sensual,” “describe a child in terms […]

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Stop using these ESR power banks that have been recalled for fire and explosion risks

ESR has issued a recall for 33,000 HaloLock wireless power banks, in 6,000mAh and 10,000mAh versions, because their lithium-ion batteries can “overheat and ignite, posing fire and burn hazards to consumers.” The power banks were cheaper alternatives to Apple’s MagSafe accessories (priced between $32 and $40) but offered slower 7.5W wireless charging speeds when used […]

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Acura’s RSX prototype is a taste of what’s to come with Honda Zero

Acura is bringing back the RSX sedan as a premium, dramatic-looking, all-wheel drive electric crossover that’s also the first model engineered in-house on Honda’s new global EV Platform. This is the same platform that will eventually underpin the automaker’s Zero series, which is expected to go into production next year along with the RSX. So […]

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HyperX’s new gaming headset claims to last 250 hours on a single charge

HP-owned HyperX is announcing a slew of new gaming headsets and streaming-friendly microphones. The HyperX Cloud Alpha 2 is the new flagship at $299.99. It uses 53mm drivers and 2.4GHz wireless lasting up to 250 hours — an impressive 10+ days of continuous use — though it drops to half that when simultaneously connected to […]

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Apple’s AirPods Max are $70 off in every color

One of the most-discussed subjects among many of my friends and colleagues are headphones: specifically, what provides the best sound, the best noise cancellation, and are the most comfortable to wear. If you’re part of the Apple ecosystem, then one of those featured in our roundup of best AirPods to buy are the AirPods Max, […]

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Google Flights can help you book a trip when you don’t know where to go

It seems like Google is looking for a way to put AI into everything these days, and now its efforts have reached its airfare-booking service, Flights. On Thursday, Google announced that it’s testing a new AI-powered Flight Deals tool, which could come in handy if you’re planning a trip on a budget but aren’t quite […]

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Microsoft is getting ready to return to the office

Microsoft originally encouraged its employees to work from home amid the coronavirus outbreak in 2020. This new flexible working arrangement then became an official "hybrid workplace" policy several months after the pandemic began, allowing managers to approve permanent remote work. Now that the pandemic has settled into endemicity, Microsoft wants employees to return to the […]

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Is streaming about to have a Wordle moment?

It's game time for streaming services: a growing number of streamers are betting on casual games as a way to keep viewers hooked when they've run out of things to watch. Toronto-based Zone-ify added free casual games to its ad-supported streaming service in June. Last month, close to 70 casual games arrived on Happykids and […]

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Elon Musk’s gangster tech regulation comes for Apple

Elon Musk is calling in another return on his investment in American politics: he's threatening Apple with a lawsuit because neither X nor xAI's Grok have been recommended on the iOS App Store. How serious this threat is - well, that's hard to say, as it was posted between Grok-generated waifus. "Hey @Apple App Store, […]

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Christian Militants Are Using Instagram to Recruit—and Becoming Influencers in the Process

There's a new guard of paramilitary activists, whose youthful membership, edgy aesthetics, use of Instagram, and, in many cases, overt nods to religion points to a new brand of anti-government Christian nationalist militias.

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Verge readers can get a $25 exclusive discount on the Boox Palma 2

If you want a convenient way to stay well read without amassing a library of physical books, an e-reader may be the right solution. The Boox Palma 2 impressed us with its pocket-friendly size and ability to run Android apps. A bundle including the Boox Palma 2 and a case is $299.99 ($29 off) at […]

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Philips Hue’s new bridge could turn your lights into motion sensors

Smart lighting company Philips Hue appears to be launching a new version of its bridge, the first in a decade. According to a product page briefly published on Hue’s website and since removed, the Hue Bridge Pro will be faster, have more capacity, and can “turn your smart lights into motion sensors.” A Hue video […]

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The head of ChatGPT won’t rule out adding ads

OpenAI is considering ways to bring in additional revenue, and bringing ads to ChatGPT is one option on the table. While being interviewed on Decoder, ChatGPT head Nick Turley said he’s “humble enough not to rule it out categorically,” but hedged that OpenAI would need to “be very thoughtful and tasteful” about how ads could […]

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You can pivot this wireless smartphone power bank to charge an Apple Watch, too

If you’re firmly in the Apple hardware ecosystem, Kuxiu’s K1 wireless power bank could be more useful to you than other portable MagSafe batteries. You can stick it to the back of your iPhone to keep it charged when you don’t have access to power, but rotating the K1 90 degrees reveals a second built-in […]

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Cohere hires long-time Meta research head Joelle Pineau as its chief AI officer

Cohere has hired Joelle Pineau, Meta's former VP of AI research who previously oversaw the tech giant's fundamental AI research (FAIR) lab. In her newly created Chief AI Officer role, Pineau will oversee AI strategy across Cohere's research, product and policy teams.

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The head of ChatGPT on AI attachment, ads, and what’s next

Welcome to Decoder! I’m Alex Heath, your Thursday episode guest host and deputy editor at The Verge. Today, I’m talking to a very special guest: Nick Turley, the head of ChatGPT at OpenAI. While Sam Altman is definitely the public face of the company, Nick has been leading ChatGPT’s development since the very beginning. It’s […]

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UK porn site traffic tumbles following age gating rules

Figures reported by BBC News show that popular pornography websites are seeing far fewer visitors from the UK since the country enforced mandatory age verification requirements for online platforms. Pornhub saw a 47 percent decrease in UK traffic between July 24th (a day before the age-gating rules came into effect) and August 8th, according to […]

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HTC is getting in on AI glasses, too

With Meta, Google, Samsung, and maybe even Apple working on AI-powered glasses, smart spectacles are quickly becoming the hottest gadget in tech. Now, even HTC is jumping in on the trend with a new pair of Vive Eagle smart glasses that come with built-in speakers, a 12MP ultrawide camera, and an AI voice assistant. The […]

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Senators Press Howard Lutnick’s Former Investment Firm Over Tariff Conflict of Interest Concerns

Senators Ron Wyden and Elizabeth Warren are demanding answers from Cantor Fitzgerald after WIRED reported that the firm was essentially creating a way for clients to bet on whether Trump’s tariffs will be struck down in court.

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Google Messages is now blurring nude images

Sensitive Content Warnings that detect and blur images containing nudity are now rolling out to all Google Messages users on Android, according to 9to5Google. The feature gives users the option to delete blurred images without having to view them and block whoever sent the message. Users who attempt to send or forward nude images will […]

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These smart glasses use AI to help low-vision users

Accessibility-focused tech provider Envision has partnered with eyewear company Solos to launch new smart glasses specifically designed for blind and low-vision users. Envision says the camera-equipped Ally Solos Glasses can read and translate text, describe surroundings, search the web, and recognize people, objects, and signs, feeding information to the user via open-ear speakers built into […]

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Apple returns blood oxygen monitoring to the latest Apple Watches

Blood oxygen monitoring is returning to the Apple Watch — sort of. Starting today, Apple is rolling out a software update that enables a redesigned version of the feature for the Apple Watch Series 9, 10, and Ultra 2 that circumvents the import ban imposed by the International Trade Commission. To get around the ban, […]

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I flew Insta360’s Antigravity — it could change how drones are made

I know my way around a pair of joysticks - but I'd prefer to soar. I don't want to think about filming while I'm flying. I'd rather explore. Now, camera maker Insta360 is launching its first drone, under a new drone company, to serve that exact demand. It's called Antigravity, and in January 2026, it'll […]

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GuliKit’s new anti-drift Switch 2 controllers are budget-friendly alternatives to Nintendo’s

After debuting its affordable $29.99 Elves 2 controller last month, GuliKit is back with another budget-friendly alternative to Nintendo’s Switch 2 Pro Controller — if you prefer an asymmetrical joystick layout. Both the $24.99 GuliKit ES and $29.99 ES Pro controllers are available starting today in gray for the cheaper version and your choice of […]

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Cadillac’s Elevated Velocity concept could foreshadow the brand’s future in off-roading

On the surface, Cadillac’s new Elevated Velocity looks like your typical concept car: gull-wing doors; a plush red interior; a retractable steering wheel for fully autonomous driving; and futuristic lighting scheme. But the real attention grabber is the lifted chassis and a new off-roading mode that could hint at a possible new direction for GM’s […]

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Apple accidentally leaked some of its upcoming chip bumps

Apple appears to have inadvertently included details about several of its upcoming devices in code spotted by MacRumors. One part of the code suggests that Apple plans on putting an M5 chip in its next-gen Vision Pro headset, aligning with a previous report from supply chain analyst Ming-Chi Kuo. That’s not the only device in […]

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Teenage Engineering’s new PC case is plastic and free

Teenage Engineering – best known for its electronic instruments and slick audio gear – has announced a new computer case, a follow-up to its $149 Computer-1 released back in 2021, that it’s claiming is the “cheapest computer case in the world” because the company is giving it away for free. Unfortunately, the Computer–2 is already […]

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What’s in Your Kid’s Multivitamin? How Expert-Developed EllaOla Raises the Bar on Quality and Heavy Metal Testing

Key Takeaways  EllaOla lead tests its products using independent, third-party labs that follow ISO standards. EllaOla’s products are developed with pediatricians and dietitians, and made in NSF-certified, cGMP-certified, and organic-certified facilities in the USA. EllaOla multivitamins provide more comprehensive nutrients than many competitors and avoid junk like added sugar, dyes, artificial sweeteners, and fillers. Walk...

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From Selena Gomez to Rihanna, These Big Names Are Even Bigger in Business

Chances are you’ve seen your favorite celebrities make waves in places beyond the stage and movie screen. Hollywood’s most talented don’t just act, sing and dance — many run their own business empires, too. Take, for instance, Selena Gomez and her massive makeup and bodycare dynasty, Rare Beauty. The singer started selling cosmetics in 2020, […]

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Kylie Kelce Reacts to Taylor Swift Breaking the Internet on ‘New Heights’

Kylie Kelce was just as excited as Us to see Taylor Swift‘s surprises on the “New Heights” podcast. During the Thursday, August 14, episode of her “Not Gonna Lie” podcast, Kylie, 33, shared her thoughts on Jason and Travis Kelce‘s big guest, joking it “felt weird” to even mention “the other podcast” by name. She […]

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Nick Viall Reveals Wife Natalie Joy Experienced 3rd Miscarriage This Year

Nick Viall’s wife Natalie Joy is recuperating after experiencing another miscarriage, the couple’s third this year. Viall, 44, opened the Thursday, August 14, of his “The Viall Files” podcast by addressing cohost Joy’s absence from the episode as she heals from their latest pregnancy loss. “As you can see, Natalie is not with us. There’s […]

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19 Flattering Summer-to-Fall Wedding Guest Dresses to Look Rich — Under $50

August, September and October are the perfect months for weddings. Not only is the weather cooler, but the trees are stunning, the vibes are cozy and the outfits are top-notch. If you haven’t scored your wedding guest dress yet, you’re in luck because we found some of the prettiest on the internet — all under […]

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Bob Harper Says Jillian Michaels Didn’t Reach Out After Heart Attack

The Biggest Loser’s Bob Harper claims Jillian Michaels didn’t reach out after he suffered a heart attack. The fitness trainer, 59, was hospitalized in February 2017 when he suddenly went into cardiac arrest following a gym workout. In an interview with The Guardian published on Thursday, August 14, Harper said that many people from The […]

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17 Versatile Tops That Pair Perfectly With Leggings (and Hide Belly Bloat)

Leggings season is upon Us! But with cooler weather comes the ever-daunting task of finding shirts long enough to cover the backside. Some tops look like they’ll do the trick, but if the fit is off, they end up scrunching up. To avoid that problem, we searched high and low on Amazon to find shirts […]

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Here’s the 1 Netflix Movie I Can’t Wait to Watch in August 2025

When it comes to movies heading to Netflix, it’s a lot easier to recommend films we’ve already seen rather than something new or unknown. But there is one Netflix movie I can’t wait to watch in August that I’ve never seen before, and it’s called Night Always Comes. This is a crime thriller by director […]

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Taylor Swift Reveals How She Got Jason Kelce’s Daughters to Love Cats

Not only has Taylor Swift won the hearts of the Kelce family, but so have her famous cats! During her Wednesday, August 13, appearance on the “New Heights” podcast hosted by boyfriend Travis Kelce and his brother, Jason Kelce, the singer shared how she introduced her three cats — Meredith Grey, Olivia Benson and Benjamin […]

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4 Underrated Netflix Movies You Need to Watch in August 2025

If you’re looking for variety in your movie nights, look no further than Netflix in August. In addition to its numerous original movies premiering throughout the month, Netflix has added several films from outside studios for limited runs on the streamer. Watch With Us has selected the four underrated Netflix movies you need to watch […]

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Jennifer Aniston Wears These Comfy-Chic Flip Flops on Repeat — Nail the Look for $20

If there’s one staple in Jennifer Aniston’s wardrobe, it’s a pair of flip-flops — she wears them on repeat! Most recently, she was spotted rocking slim brown sandals, so naturally, we tracked down a $20 lookalike to nail her effortlessly chic vibe. Aniston was spotted wearing wide-leg blue jeans, a gray tank top, a floppy […]

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If You Have to Watch 1 Hulu Movie in August, Stream This Underrated 2025 Thriller

Hulu has an abundance of riches for movie lovers in August, even beyond the regular influx of new titles. Earlier this month, the streamer added one of this year’s best horror titles, The Monkey, and the well-reviewed action comedy Copshop is arriving on August 11. Both of those are very good films, but the one […]

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17 Relaxed-Fit Tops That Hide the Tummy Without Sacrificing Style — From $7

Some days, you just want to wear a top that easily skims over the midsection. That’s where relaxed-fitting tops shine: they don’t cling, are comfortable for all-day wear and can create the illusion of a smaller waist. Whether you’re dealing with bloating or just want a more forgiving fit, having a few of these pieces […]

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7 Must-Watch Free YouTube Movies to Stream Right Now (August 2025)

If you’re looking for free movies to watch online without a subscription, there aren’t many options left in the streaming-verse. However, YouTube offers a small selection of films from many of the Hollywood studios that you can watch anytime without being charged. The downside is that YouTube’s film library is often in flux, and many […]

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Pete Davidson Claims Smoking Weed Gave Him ‘Psychosis,’ Talks Addiction

Pete Davidson is getting candid about his past drug addiction. The Saturday Night Live alum dropped by Power 105.1 FM’s The Breakfast Club radio show on Wednesday, August 13, and opened up about how smoking weed affected his mental health. “I was a daily, all day sorta guy and I got psychosis where you hear […]

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Cowboy’s e-bikes granted a second life

After months of speculation over the e-bike maker’s imminent demise, Cowboy says it now has the financial backing it needs to survive. The Brussels-based maker of boutique e-bikes says it has secured short-term financing to keep the lights on and a commitment from Rebirth Group Holding that should “ensure its long-term future.”  The bicycle company […]

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Priscilla Presley Accused of Withdrawing Medical Care From Lisa Marie 

Priscilla Presley’s former business partners claim that she withdrew medical care from Lisa Marie Presley before her daughter’s death. On Monday, August 11, Brigitte Kruse and Kevin Fialko filed a lawsuit in Los Angeles County Superior Court alleging that Priscilla, 80, “pulled the plug within hours of Lisa being admitted” to the hospital after suffering […]

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Kim Kardashian Breaks Down in Tears Over Kanye West in New Doc Trailer

Kim Kardashian breaks down in tears over Kanye West in an upcoming documentary about his turbulent life.  The new trailer for In Whose Name? reveals a rare glimpse of the former couple during a low moment. Kardashian, 44, can be heard crying, telling her ex-husband, “Your personality was not like this a few years ago.” […]

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Who Is Shellback? 5 Things to Know About Taylor Swift’s Producer

Music producer Shellback is making headlines after Taylor Swift revealed that she collaborated with him on her upcoming album The Life of A Showgirl. This week, the pop star sent Swifties spiraling when she announced her 12th studio album, which will be released October 3. The songs were produced by Shellback and Max Martin, both […]

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Who is Isabela Ferrer? 5 Things to Know About the ‘It Ends With Us’ Actress

Isabela Ferrer made her film debut as Blake Lively’s younger counterpart in It Ends With Us — and she had nothing but positive things to say about working with the Gossip Girl actress. “She greeted me with the warmest hug ever, and from then on, it was just wonderful warmth and friendship,” Ferrer told People […]

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Anne Hathaway’s Vest Set Looks So Put-Together — We Found a Comfy Lookalike

Everyone wants to look like Anne Hathaway right now with The Devil Wears Prada 2 in the works. Luckily, we’re one step closer to getting her style thanks to this sleek, expensive-looking vest and pants set on Amazon. It’s just as classy, chic and polished, and probably even comfier than Hathaway’s exact outfit. This stylish […]

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