Back to school essentials
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The best back-to-school sales on everything you needLooking for some essentials before you head off to school, college, or university? Here's what we'd buy if we were students this month.
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The best noise cancelling headphones, compared in the real worldWe've tested and selected the best noise cancelling headphones to keep the world out and your music in.
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The best student laptops, all tested by our expertsCheck out our top tested picks of the best student laptops in 2026, from Windows systems to Apple MacBooks and more.
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UpdatedThe best power banks — essential for long daysHere are the best power banks, from big batteries that power everything to slim chargers to keep you topped up.
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VPNThe best VPN for school Wi-Fi: reliable picks from VPN expertsA VPN can help you access educational content all over the world. We look at some of the best choices.
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3 great small coffee machines for tiny spaces, chosen by a trained baristaI test over a dozen coffee makers every year, and these are the 3 best compact models I recommend for cafe-quality espresso every time.
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How to get hidden free and discounted apps for school workThese are the secret ways you can get free and cheap software for all your devices.
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3 air fryers I'd recommend for students, and tips on how to chooseStudent-friendly friers — including an ingenious design that uses the same container for cooking, serving and storing, to minimize washing up.
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Reviews
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Oppo Reno 16 5G review: a gorgeous yet costly mid-range phone -
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Poco F8 Pro review: the best affordable flagship phone of 2026 -
L'Atitude 52°N Smart Glasses review: stylish smart glasses that’ll help you see the world, but are they worth the subscription? -
The stunning Terra Caffe Demi brews exceptional coffee with the tap of a button -
Insidious: Out of the Further is terrifying, but it's scares over substance -
Poco F8 Ultra review: an iPhone copycat that packs a punch and then some -
JBL Live Beam 4 review: excellent touchscreen-equipped earbuds
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buying guides
Phones
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Buying a Pixel 11? Don't miss this $200 Amazon bonus — it could prove very handy indeed -
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I took the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 on vacation, and it proved me wrong in so many ways -
Want a cheap iPhone on a cheap plan? This deal at Metro by T-Mobile gets you a device included without having to trade -
Oppo Reno 16 5G review: a gorgeous yet costly mid-range phone -
Google has sneaked a mysterious new app onto your Android phone 2 Comments -
Poco F8 Pro review: the best affordable flagship phone of 2026 -
The best Google Pixel 11 Pro Fold cases to protect your new foldable phone
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Laptops & Computing
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NYT Wordle today — answer and my hints for game #1894, Wednesday, August 26 3343 Comments -
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Microsoft's leaked vision of Windows built around AI is still a worry -
UpdatedThe best gaming mouse 2026 -
Don't buy a new laptop or tablet for college until you see these 10 'pre-loved' deals at Back Market — including Apple, Android, and more -
UpdatedThe best mouse 2026 -
UpdatedThe best SSD in 2026 -
CORSAIR Revival Series: Premium gear, certified performance, serious savings
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AI
All AI-
Microsoft's leaked vision of Windows built around AI is still a worryRemember Microsoft's vision of Windows built around AI? That recent leak has been raked over — and fresh details of 'Copilot OS' make me more nervous about the future.
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Windscribe's bizarre AI Hitler marketing stunt sparks fury and VPN subscription cancellationsA bizarre social media stunt featuring an AI-generated Adolf Hitler has landed Windscribe in hot water, with users canceling subscriptions and questioning the VPN provider's extensive reliance on AI.
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I made ChatGPT Plus justify its $20 feeCan ChatGPT save you money? It turns out that ChatGPT’s finance features save me more than a Plus subscription cost
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Amazon security engineer hacks PC accessories with ease using Claude OpusSome nifty tricks are pulled off by the security engineer — but the dark side of all this is worrying to say the least.
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'I'm embracing it': Dr Dre outs himself as a pro-AI producerDr. Dre has admitted he uses AI in his music producing, despite most music streaming services trying to ban the stuff.
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Apple
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Meta's apps hoover up triple the data of Apple and Microsoft, new study findsA new Surfshark study names Meta the most data-hungry Big Tech firm, collecting triple the data of Apple or Microsoft. Here's what it means for your privacy.
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Don't buy a new laptop or tablet for college until you see these 10 'pre-loved' deals at Back Market — including Apple, Android, and moreNew laptops and tablets are too expensive, which is why I've rounded up 10 college-ready bargains at Back Market.
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Two new AirPods 5 models will launch alongside the iPhone 18, says reliable analystA new report suggests the Apple AirPods 5 will launch alongside the iPhone 18 Pro, and an ANC-toting model will be along for the ride.
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We've got more leaked details of the rumored camera-equipped AirPodsWe've got a bit more unofficial information on the camera quality and the capabilities of these upcoming AirPods.
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UpdatedThe best iPhone chargers 2026We've rounded up the best iPhone chargers to buy in 2025, with options for USB-C and Lightning models.
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Streaming
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The Gentlemen season 3 early Netflix renewal could be bad news for MobLand on Paramount+Netflix has renewed The Gentlemen season 3 before season 2 has even aired — and that makes me worried for MobLand's future on Paramount+.
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Only Murders in the Building season 6: everything we know about Hulu and Disney+ show's returnOur murder-solving trio are heading across the pond to London in Only Murders in the Building season 6. Here's what we can expect, from confirmed guest stars to release window.
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The Pitt season 3: everything we know about the hit HBO Max show's returnNow that season 2's explosive finale is behind us, all eyes are on The Pitt season 3. But what do we actually know about the hit HBO Max show's return?
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The Shards is now streaming on Hulu and Disney+, but when can you watch the next episode?This is our second double bill, and you won't want to miss it.
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UpdatedHow much is a Peacock TV subscription? Plans, bundles, current deals and prices compared to Netflix, Prime Video and moreThis guide breaks down the price of a Peacock subscription, including how much each of its plans cost, what deals are available and how it compares to rivals.
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TVs
All TVs-
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The 'world's first audiophile soundbar' is getting an awesome Atmos updateCanvas has expanded its Canvas L soundbar with Dolby Surround and Atmos support via a new control box
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Samsung's Micro RGB TV delivers exceptional colors and brightness, making it the perfect display to watch football — and it's at its lowest price everSamsung's Micro RGB TV delivers exceptional color and brightness, making it the perfect display for watching football, and it's currently on sale at a record-low price at Best Buy.
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Best Buy's 60th Anniversary sale has some seriously tempting TCL TV deals — our favorite models are up to $2,000 offLooking for a decent TV that doesn't cost the earth? TCL's Mini LED models are a fantastic value option.
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LG G6 OLED vs Samsung R95H Micro RGB: which tech comes out on top?RGB TVs seek to take the TV crown from OLED, so I decided to test a flagship LG OLED against a flagship Samsung Micro RGB to see if the new tech can take the throne
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This 9-in-1 USB dock with a Blu-ray drive is smashing its crowdfunding goalThe BluHub is a USB 3 hub with an integrated BD/DVD/CD writer — and despite its early Kickstarter success, some are warning of red flags.
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5 of the best 4K Blu-ray discs I've tested for showing off your TV's colors4K Blu-ray is excellent for showing off a TV's colors, and these are 5 of the best discs I've tested as part of the Blu-ray Bounty.
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The best 32-inch TV: small screens for any budgetThe best 32-inch smart TVs offer excellent value for many, with compact sizing and affordable pricing that small TVs can offer.
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Audio
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An affordable analog tube amp from an actually good audiophile brand? Christmas has come earlyFiio's EA13 is a tube amplifier that's surprisingly affordable.
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Two new AirPods 5 models will launch alongside the iPhone 18, says reliable analystA new report suggests the Apple AirPods 5 will launch alongside the iPhone 18 Pro, and an ANC-toting model will be along for the ride.
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'I'm embracing it': Dr Dre outs himself as a pro-AI producerDr. Dre has admitted he uses AI in his music producing, despite most music streaming services trying to ban the stuff.
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‘Bi-polar, angry and forgetful’ romantic chatbots are leaving humans in need of specialist relationship therapyShame, jealousy, anger, addiction: are AI relationships causing more harm than good? and what’s the alternative to dating inside a screen in 2026?
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Why Goldenear's hybrid T44 tower speakers somehow boast the best of powered and passive worldsThe Goldenear T44 are both powered and passive speakers (depending on the driver and frequency you want to talk about), allowing for some truly unique blending of sound.
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Think CD players died in the 2000s? These 9 wonderfully weird new models prove otherwiseDust off your CD collection and get ready to party like it's 2002.
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Trinnov's Altitude CI AV processor creates high-quality sound in non-ideal spaces — and I love itThe Trinnov Altitude CI AV processor is a magical piece of equipment you didn’t know you needed. Its 3D room correction, software-based processing, and modularity are all next level.
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Health & Fitness
All Health & Fitness-
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Garmin Fenix 9 revealed — here are 5 things you need to knowMeet the Garmin Fenix 9 and the Garmin Fenix 9 Pro, which bring significant upgrades to the Fenix line.
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Buying GuideThe best workout headphones for 2026Whether you're a fitness fanatic or a fair weather runner, the best workout headphones will elevate the way you exercise.
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The Apple Watch 12 is rumored to be released next month — get the Apple Watch 11 in stock and on sale for just $299 at AmazonThe Apple Watch 12 is rumored to launch next month, so now is a great time to buy the Apple Watch 11 for just $299 on Amazon.
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Cameras
All Cameras-
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The most-used cameras by Wildlife Photographer of the Year 2026 shortlistees? Two Nikon DSLRsThese spectacular shortlisted images for the Wildlife Photographer of the Year 2026 competition show that there's life in the DSLR yet!
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How to photograph the lunar eclipse blood moon on August 27-28North and South America are ideally placed for the 96.2% partial lunar eclipse on August 27-28, while viewers across Europe should see the height of the eclipse just before moonset and dawn.
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UpdatedThe best bird feeder cameras we've tested for birdwatching at homeIf you want to see which feathered friends are visiting your garden, we've reviewed the best bird feeder cameras for you
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FCC shoots down HoverAir Versa 2-in-1 drone, saying certification was granted ‘erroneously'HoverAir's 2-in-1 pocket gimbal camera and drone looked set to go on sale in the US — but the FCC has now said certification was granted 'erroneously'
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Home
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New Philips Hue module reportedly allows Nanoleaf integrationA new Philips Hue module could let you connect your Nanoleaf lights to the Hue app.
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Ninja's latest kitchen gadget replaces three appliances with just oneThe new Ninja CrushBOSS is a three-in-one kitchen system that combines a blender, food processor and a to-go tumbler.
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12 unmissable backyard bargains I'd snap up in the Walmart saleSummer is drawing to a close, and that means it's the perfect time to snap up some outdoor deals.
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The best Shark vacuum cleaners for every home – tried and testedWhether your priority is powerful suction, a nimble build or advanced features, we've found a Shark vacuum for you.
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Buying guides
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Buying GuideThe best workout headphones for 2026 -
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UpdatedThe best gaming mouse 2026 -
UpdatedThe best mouse 2026 -
UpdatedThe best SSD in 2026 -
UpdatedThe best bird feeder cameras we've tested for birdwatching at home -
The best Shark vacuum cleaners for every home – tried and tested -
We tested the best fans on the market – these models came out on top
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Why we're experts
We care passionately about tech
The TechRadar team has a life-long passion for the latest innovations – over 300 years of experience between us, in fact – and we’ve made it our mission to share that combined knowledge and expertise with you.
We’re here to provide an independent voice that cuts through all the noise to inspire, inform and entertain you; ensuring you get maximum enjoyment from your tech at all times. Technology is our passion, so let us be your expert guide.
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Deals
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Best Labor Day sales 2026 — today's best early deals and what discounts you can expectAs TechRadar's deals editor, I created this Labor Day sales guide with everything you need to know, including today's best early deals and what discounts to expect.
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Don't wait for Labor Day — Lowe's summer clearance sale has the cheapest prices of the year on patio furniture, grills, outdoor tools and moreLowe's summer clearance sale feels like a Labor Day preview, with up to 50% off patio furniture, grills, lawnmowers, tools, appliances, and more.
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Buying a Pixel 11? Don't miss this $200 Amazon bonus — it could prove very handy indeedPSA: You can still get up to $200 in Amazon credit with the Pixel 11 series this week.
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The Apple Watch 12 is rumored to be released next month — get the Apple Watch 11 in stock and on sale for just $299 at AmazonThe Apple Watch 12 is rumored to launch next month, so now is a great time to buy the Apple Watch 11 for just $299 on Amazon.
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Don't buy a new laptop or tablet for college until you see these 10 'pre-loved' deals at Back Market — including Apple, Android, and moreNew laptops and tablets are too expensive, which is why I've rounded up 10 college-ready bargains at Back Market.
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The best back-to-school sales 2026: TechRadar's recommendations for laptops, headphones, essentials, and moreLooking for some essentials before you head off to school, college, or university? Here's what we'd buy if we were students this month.
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Sling TV promo codes for Aug 2026SPONSORED With these Sling TV promo codes you can get discounted memberships and add access to extra channels for free on the streaming service.
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Hostinger coupon codes in Aug 2026 |SPONSORED Browse the latest Hostinger coupon codes for savings on a range of web packages, from shared web to VPS hosting.
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Roborock discount codes for Aug 2026 |SPONSORED Activate one of these Roborock discount codes for lower prices on the brand's wet vacs, cordless models and robot vacuums.
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ExpressVPN coupons for Aug 2026 |SPONSORED Save money with one of our ExpressVPN coupons and secure your digital details across all your devices for less.
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Autodesk Promo Codes for August 2026SPONSORED These Autodesk promo codes can help you save money on architectural, engineering software & more.
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Bitdefender coupon codes for Aug 2026 |SPONSORED Use one of these tried & tested Bitdefender coupon codes to save on the brand's internet security, antivirus, VPN, and password management plans.
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Tello coupon codes for Aug 2026 |SPONSORED Our Tello coupon codes can help you save on the cost of cell phones, accessories & a range of plans from the mobile carrier.
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FlexiSpot coupon codes for Aug 2026 |SPONSORED Browse our FlexiSpot coupon codes to get better prices on gaming chairs, standing desks and other modern home & office furniture.
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Network Solutions coupons for Aug 2026 |SPONSORED Use one of these Network Solutions coupons at the checkout to lower the price of domains, web building & hosting, and online marketing services.
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TechRadar's story
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Software
All Software-
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Microsoft's leaked vision of Windows built around AI is still a worryRemember Microsoft's vision of Windows built around AI? That recent leak has been raked over — and fresh details of 'Copilot OS' make me more nervous about the future.
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Microsoft's latest move to pay people to use Edge smacks of desperationAn app has been spotted that makes Bing your default search, and some users see it as another reason to leave Windows 11.
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L'Atitude 52°N Smart Glasses review: stylish smart glasses that’ll help you see the world, but are they worth the subscription?The L’Atitude 52°N are a promising debut from this new player in the smartwatch game, but they’re not without their issues.
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The hidden ways to get free and discounted apps in time for back to schoolThese are the secret ways you can get free and cheap software for all your devices.
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'The entire audio system has been rebuilt' — Metro 2039 executive producer says sound has been 'reimagined in a way to really support thick, dense atmosphere'4A Games has confirmed that Metro 2039's audio system has been rebuilt to offer a deeper sense of immersion.
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'The most striking on the surface thing is going to be the density of what you see' — Metro 2039 creative director says the game's new engine allows 'billions' of objects, whereas Metro Exodus allowed up to 30 millionMetro 2039 creative director Andriy Shevchenko has revealed that 4A Games' latest game engine allows "billions" of objects to create a dense, realistic world.
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Metro 2039 creative director shares how the Russia-Ukraine war has affected the game, says there are 'no gray zones' in the story and 'we are not afraid to call evil evil'4A Games has shared how the events of the Russia-Ukraine war have manifested in its upcoming first-person shooter, Metro 2039.
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Get ready for even more game reveals — here's how to watch the Future Games Show at Gamescom 2026The Future Games Show returns with three digital showcases at Gamescom 2026 — here's how you can watch.
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Meet Your Experts
VPN
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Meta's apps hoover up triple the data of Apple and Microsoft, new study finds -
BBC fights Trump’s $10 billion lawsuit over VPN jurisdiction limits 2 Comments -
Windscribe's bizarre AI Hitler marketing stunt sparks fury and VPN subscription cancellations -
This Android banking trojan uses a fake VPN prompt to silence Google's defenses -
NordVPN warns of fake Ryanair, Emirates, Qatar Airways websites used to spread malware -
Mullvad VPN is testing smarter multi-hop and a spinnable server globe on Android 3 Comments -
Proton VPN on Linux gets a huge accessibility boost with 20 new languages
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New study finds bosses are far more comfortable sharing work documents with AI than their employees — despite the security risksReport claims 68% of workers use AI tools at work, with 74% of bosses happy to hand over tasks to their preferred AI, regardless of security concerns
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Xiaomi will now let you pre-order its first NAS — and at a surprisingly attractive price for customers everywhereXiaomi's first NAS starts at CNY 2,699 with drives included, uses the same chip as Synology's 2023 budget boxes, and isn't yet available outside China.
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OpenAI CEO Sam Altman is worried about AI being controlled by just a few powerful playersSam Altman has expressed concerns that large companies with AI interests are determining the direction the technology takes, rather than society
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Report finds over a third of web pages launched since ChatGPT show evidence of being written by AIResearchers have found a sharp increase in the number of web pages using AI authorship, with over 33% of pages published since January 2023 apparently written by AI
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