<![CDATA[ Latest from TechRadar ]]> https://www.techradar.com/feeds.xml Sun, 04 Oct 2026 10:00:00 +0000 en <![CDATA[ How I think Microsoft's campaign to fix Windows 11 is going after 6 months ]]> It's time for my quarterly report card on how Microsoft is progressing with its campaign to fix Windows 11. You may recall that my first report was published at the start of July, and I was largely full of praise given what happened to Windows 11 in those first three months.

So how is Microsoft faring now we're six months down the line? Here's what I've been impressed with in terms of what Microsoft has been tinkering with lately, but I'll also cover the missing parts of the puzzle that I really think the company needs to address with its effort to make Windows 11 better in 2026.

5 things Microsoft has got right

1. 8GB performance tuning

A woman at a table using a Windows 11 laptop, opposite sits a man, neither show their face

(Image credit: Unsplash / Windows)

Do you have a PC with 8GB of RAM? You might find it provides a less-than-ideal experience running Windows 11, even though it's enough memory to run the OS per Microsoft's system requirements. Indeed, 4GB is officially the bare minimum, though I wouldn't recommend it.

However, this is changing, because back in August, Microsoft let us know that one of its goals in fixing Windows 11 is memory optimization for 8GB devices (and indeed for any RAM loadout). Microsoft said that the overall aim is: "Reducing Windows memory footprint to deliver a fast and responsive Windows experience across the PCs customers use every day."

This is a necessary move in general, but Microsoft has additional impetus to make 8GB work better, given the ongoing RAM crisis means laptop makers are increasingly falling back on this memory configuration (as 16GB is just too pricey).

It's absolutely key that Microsoft makes Windows 11 run more smoothly on leaner RAM configurations, and we're already seeing some evidence of performance improvements coming through — as well as faster loading for apps (not just Windows menus) — so that has to be a good thing.

2. Speed boosts elsewhere

Happy couple sitting on sofa, looking at a Windows 11 laptop

(Image credit: Getty Images / VioletaStoimenova)

Along with work to optimize Windows 11 for RAM usage, Microsoft also announced plans to speed up boot times. That includes not just a faster boot, but a more responsive login via Windows Hello—so we'll hopefully get to the desktop much faster in the future. (And to be fair to Microsoft, Windows 11 already boots nippily enough, generally speaking).

Microsoft is also making the Windows 11 setup process more streamlined and quicker, which doesn't hurt, either.

3. Search improvements

Windows 11 on a laptop showing search icon on taskbar

(Image credit: Shutterstock)

Windows 11's search has long been subpar, and thankfully Microsoft has recognized this and made moves to address some of the thornier problems.

This includes work to make search more useful overall — so it can find files with long compound names, handle typos better, and show possibly relevant results after you've typed only two characters — but the most important change is the ability to turn off web results.

These are the websites that appear in the array of results Windows 11 presents and just clutter up the list, getting in the way. Now you can turn them off, and also dump any Microsoft Store suggestions too. Search is becoming a much more streamlined and useful feature (as it should have been all along, true enough, but at least Microsoft has finally fixed the major bugbears here).

4. Right clicking the right way

Using files and folders in Windows 11

(Image credit: Future)

The context menu, which appears when you right-click a file or folder, is another part of the Windows 11 interface that is getting a major upgrade.

Microsoft is decluttering the lengthy list of options to make it look cleaner, pruning a bunch of stuff in the default view of the right-click menu. Again, this is something that shouldn't have taken this long, but it's still good to see the move finally underway.

The right-click menu is also being tuned so it loads faster, and a welcome choice to revert the layout to how it appears in Windows 10 is also in the pipeline. Good stuff.

5. Bolstering privacy

Close-up of webcam on Asus Windows 11 laptop with pink wall in background

(Image credit: Future)

This is a minor tweak, but an important one nonetheless, as Microsoft is finally letting Windows 11 users adjust privacy controls for each installed app.

Currently, this is only possible with apps from the Microsoft Store, as other (Win32) desktop apps have a single master toggle for allowing (or blocking) camera and microphone access. In other words, you can allow permission for everything, or no apps at all, with no choices in between, which is obviously not very useful. With the change coming in (currently in testing), you'll be able to adjust these privacy options for each app.

3 glaring oversights Microsoft has yet to address

1. Quality assurance

A woman getting frustrated by her Windows 11 laptop

(Image credit: fizkes / Shutterstock)

This one's pretty simple: Windows 11 still has too many bugs creeping in with annoying regularity. If it's not broken backup features, it's audio being torpedoed by a Windows update, and those are just the latest two glitches to have emerged last month.

I keep going on about the problems with bugs, and yes, I understand that Windows is a complex beast of an OS with a lot of potential hardware configurations to juggle, and a sprawling labyrinth of legacy features to maintain.

Nonetheless, the sheer level of bugs – some of them quite serious – we continue to witness just isn't good enough. Microsoft needs to take a long, hard look at its quality assurance and testing processes, and implement some changes – yet we never hear anything about this side of the OS.

This is the year of fixing Windows 11, and if there are two things that users would say in response to the question of what should be fixed, I'm betting that most would reply: the performance and the bugs. Microsoft is addressing those performance issues, as we've seen, but what about the sometimes eye-opening glitches that still make it into released versions of the OS?

2. Cut back on the promos

A man sitting at a table and looking at a Windows 11 laptop with a puzzled expression, holding his head up with his hand

(Image credit: Shutterstock/Prostock-studio)

The good news is that Microsoft has relented in some areas when it comes to the 'recommendations' peppered throughout Windows 11, some of which aren't even thinly veiled suggestions but outright adverts. For example, the widgets panel is now a much calmer, less ad-infested place.

Microsoft still needs to push further on this front, though, and communicate better with its marketing department to ensure that ridiculousness like a full-page Harry Potter advert never happens again. Yes, that ad was served through the Bing Wallpaper app, which isn't part of Windows 11 by default, since you have to choose to install it, but it remains a prime example of the kind of promotional excess that shouldn't happen at Microsoft.

3. Getting local

Windows 11 setup screen adding Microsoft acount

(Image credit: Microsoft)

I still want Microsoft to bring back the option to install Windows 11 with a local account, instead of forcing the OS to link to a Microsoft Account during setup. There were hints earlier this year that this might happen, but none of Microsoft's tweaks to the Windows 11 installation process so far has come close to this option.

Maybe that'll change, but given how far Microsoft has gone in the past to prevent workarounds for dodging the Microsoft Account requirement, I'm starting to think this won't be part of the fix Windows 11 effort, which would be a shame.

If Microsoft wants an easy crowd-pleaser, this would be relatively low-hanging fruit compared to the above two changes.

]]> https://www.techradar.com/computing/windows/were-6-months-into-microsofts-campaign-to-fix-windows-11-here-are-5-things-it-got-right-and-3-glaring-oversights gfg4vzkoPLPL2qBrbZvtCD Sun, 04 Oct 2026 10:00:00 +0000 false false false

It's time for my quarterly report card on how Microsoft is progressing with its campaign to fix Windows 11. You may recall that my first report was published at the start of July, and I was largely full of praise given what happened to Windows 11 in those first three months.

So how is Microsoft faring now we're six months down the line? Here's what I've been impressed with in terms of what Microsoft has been tinkering with lately, but I'll also cover the missing parts of the puzzle that I really think the company needs to address with its effort to make Windows 11 better in 2026.

5 things Microsoft has got right

1. 8GB performance tuning

A woman at a table using a Windows 11 laptop, opposite sits a man, neither show their face

(Image credit: Unsplash / Windows)

Do you have a PC with 8GB of RAM? You might find it provides a less-than-ideal experience running Windows 11, even though it's enough memory to run the OS per Microsoft's system requirements. Indeed, 4GB is officially the bare minimum, though I wouldn't recommend it.

However, this is changing, because back in August, Microsoft let us know that one of its goals in fixing Windows 11 is memory optimization for 8GB devices (and indeed for any RAM loadout). Microsoft said that the overall aim is: "Reducing Windows memory footprint to deliver a fast and responsive Windows experience across the PCs customers use every day."

This is a necessary move in general, but Microsoft has additional impetus to make 8GB work better, given the ongoing RAM crisis means laptop makers are increasingly falling back on this memory configuration (as 16GB is just too pricey).

It's absolutely key that Microsoft makes Windows 11 run more smoothly on leaner RAM configurations, and we're already seeing some evidence of performance improvements coming through — as well as faster loading for apps (not just Windows menus) — so that has to be a good thing.

2. Speed boosts elsewhere

Happy couple sitting on sofa, looking at a Windows 11 laptop

(Image credit: Getty Images / VioletaStoimenova)

Along with work to optimize Windows 11 for RAM usage, Microsoft also announced plans to speed up boot times. That includes not just a faster boot, but a more responsive login via Windows Hello—so we'll hopefully get to the desktop much faster in the future. (And to be fair to Microsoft, Windows 11 already boots nippily enough, generally speaking).

Microsoft is also making the Windows 11 setup process more streamlined and quicker, which doesn't hurt, either.

3. Search improvements

Windows 11 on a laptop showing search icon on taskbar

(Image credit: Shutterstock)

Windows 11's search has long been subpar, and thankfully Microsoft has recognized this and made moves to address some of the thornier problems.

This includes work to make search more useful overall — so it can find files with long compound names, handle typos better, and show possibly relevant results after you've typed only two characters — but the most important change is the ability to turn off web results.

These are the websites that appear in the array of results Windows 11 presents and just clutter up the list, getting in the way. Now you can turn them off, and also dump any Microsoft Store suggestions too. Search is becoming a much more streamlined and useful feature (as it should have been all along, true enough, but at least Microsoft has finally fixed the major bugbears here).

4. Right clicking the right way

Using files and folders in Windows 11

(Image credit: Future)

The context menu, which appears when you right-click a file or folder, is another part of the Windows 11 interface that is getting a major upgrade.

Microsoft is decluttering the lengthy list of options to make it look cleaner, pruning a bunch of stuff in the default view of the right-click menu. Again, this is something that shouldn't have taken this long, but it's still good to see the move finally underway.

The right-click menu is also being tuned so it loads faster, and a welcome choice to revert the layout to how it appears in Windows 10 is also in the pipeline. Good stuff.

5. Bolstering privacy

Close-up of webcam on Asus Windows 11 laptop with pink wall in background

(Image credit: Future)

This is a minor tweak, but an important one nonetheless, as Microsoft is finally letting Windows 11 users adjust privacy controls for each installed app.

Currently, this is only possible with apps from the Microsoft Store, as other (Win32) desktop apps have a single master toggle for allowing (or blocking) camera and microphone access. In other words, you can allow permission for everything, or no apps at all, with no choices in between, which is obviously not very useful. With the change coming in (currently in testing), you'll be able to adjust these privacy options for each app.

3 glaring oversights Microsoft has yet to address

1. Quality assurance

A woman getting frustrated by her Windows 11 laptop

(Image credit: fizkes / Shutterstock)

This one's pretty simple: Windows 11 still has too many bugs creeping in with annoying regularity. If it's not broken backup features, it's audio being torpedoed by a Windows update, and those are just the latest two glitches to have emerged last month.

I keep going on about the problems with bugs, and yes, I understand that Windows is a complex beast of an OS with a lot of potential hardware configurations to juggle, and a sprawling labyrinth of legacy features to maintain.

Nonetheless, the sheer level of bugs – some of them quite serious – we continue to witness just isn't good enough. Microsoft needs to take a long, hard look at its quality assurance and testing processes, and implement some changes – yet we never hear anything about this side of the OS.

This is the year of fixing Windows 11, and if there are two things that users would say in response to the question of what should be fixed, I'm betting that most would reply: the performance and the bugs. Microsoft is addressing those performance issues, as we've seen, but what about the sometimes eye-opening glitches that still make it into released versions of the OS?

2. Cut back on the promos

A man sitting at a table and looking at a Windows 11 laptop with a puzzled expression, holding his head up with his hand

(Image credit: Shutterstock/Prostock-studio)

The good news is that Microsoft has relented in some areas when it comes to the 'recommendations' peppered throughout Windows 11, some of which aren't even thinly veiled suggestions but outright adverts. For example, the widgets panel is now a much calmer, less ad-infested place.

Microsoft still needs to push further on this front, though, and communicate better with its marketing department to ensure that ridiculousness like a full-page Harry Potter advert never happens again. Yes, that ad was served through the Bing Wallpaper app, which isn't part of Windows 11 by default, since you have to choose to install it, but it remains a prime example of the kind of promotional excess that shouldn't happen at Microsoft.

3. Getting local

Windows 11 setup screen adding Microsoft acount

(Image credit: Microsoft)

I still want Microsoft to bring back the option to install Windows 11 with a local account, instead of forcing the OS to link to a Microsoft Account during setup. There were hints earlier this year that this might happen, but none of Microsoft's tweaks to the Windows 11 installation process so far has come close to this option.

Maybe that'll change, but given how far Microsoft has gone in the past to prevent workarounds for dodging the Microsoft Account requirement, I'm starting to think this won't be part of the fix Windows 11 effort, which would be a shame.

If Microsoft wants an easy crowd-pleaser, this would be relatively low-hanging fruit compared to the above two changes.

]]> <![CDATA[ Which Hogwarts house does your tech say you belong in? ]]> One of the best-known facets of the Harry Potter world is Hogwarts, and its houses. Gryffindor, Slytherin, Hufflepuff, Ravenclaw; you know the animals, the colors, the characters, the traits. You've probably even been sorted yourself, or have self-prescribed a house.

But which really are you? No, I don't mean which do you want to be, or even which one another tool like Pottermore has sorted you into. There's an even more reliable system, which exceeds even the Sorting Hat in its prescience and accuracy.

That's right: a personality quiz. Not any old personality quiz, but a tech one — this is TechRadar, after all — which will sort you into your accurate Hogwarts house. It's like you're living through the events of Harry Potter, but all based on whether you prefer Windows, MacOS or Linux, or what kind of robot vacuum you'd buy.

We've sorted questions into three batches. First up, we'll start with some simple buying decisions. Then, we'll investigate how you make such buying decisions. Finally, we'll put you into some real-world scenarios, to see how you'd act in certain tech situations.

All of these will help you know once and for all: which Harry Potter Hogwarts house do you belong to? Or, at least, which house do your tech habits point you towards?

Big fan of the franchise? We've also got a 30-question Harry Potter quiz, to prove it. And if you need to use your tech decisions as a horoscope to further refine your personality, we also have a Beatles personality quiz to see which member of the famous band you're in.

Or, you could stick to Harry Potter, and find a way to enjoy the franchise more:

]]> https://www.techradar.com/streaming/entertainment/which-hogwarts-house-do-you-belong-in-tell-us-about-your-tech-and-this-harry-potter-quiz-will-do-the-rest 3WGFiKGRajCP5pnGhPAhaZ Sun, 04 Oct 2026 09:00:00 +0000 false false false

One of the best-known facets of the Harry Potter world is Hogwarts, and its houses. Gryffindor, Slytherin, Hufflepuff, Ravenclaw; you know the animals, the colors, the characters, the traits. You've probably even been sorted yourself, or have self-prescribed a house.

But which really are you? No, I don't mean which do you want to be, or even which one another tool like Pottermore has sorted you into. There's an even more reliable system, which exceeds even the Sorting Hat in its prescience and accuracy.

That's right: a personality quiz. Not any old personality quiz, but a tech one — this is TechRadar, after all — which will sort you into your accurate Hogwarts house. It's like you're living through the events of Harry Potter, but all based on whether you prefer Windows, MacOS or Linux, or what kind of robot vacuum you'd buy.

We've sorted questions into three batches. First up, we'll start with some simple buying decisions. Then, we'll investigate how you make such buying decisions. Finally, we'll put you into some real-world scenarios, to see how you'd act in certain tech situations.

All of these will help you know once and for all: which Harry Potter Hogwarts house do you belong to? Or, at least, which house do your tech habits point you towards?

Big fan of the franchise? We've also got a 30-question Harry Potter quiz, to prove it. And if you need to use your tech decisions as a horoscope to further refine your personality, we also have a Beatles personality quiz to see which member of the famous band you're in.

Or, you could stick to Harry Potter, and find a way to enjoy the franchise more:

]]> <![CDATA[ How to watch NFL London Games 2026: FREE live streams and schedule, Colts vs Commanders ]]>
  • Next game: Indianapolis Colts vs Washington Commanders
  • Kick-off: Sunday, Oct 4 at 2.30pm BST / 9.30am ET / 12.30am AEDT (Mon)
  • Stream Free: 5 (UK) & VM Play (Ire)
  • Use IPVanish to watch from anywhere – 83% off

    • Watch NFL London Games 2026 live streams as the National Football League makes its annual sojourn across the pond for a trio of games over the course of three Sundays in the UK capital.

    Having already taken the jamboree to Brazil and, for the first time, Australia, the now-customary NFL International Games get a three-week residency in London, England. First up at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, the Indianapolis Colts and Washington Commanders both make their first appearance in the UK for the first time in a decade. They have identical 1-2 season records heading into this one, but both recorded their first win of the season last week. While the Colts narrowly defeated the Houston Texans, the Commanders pulled off the shock of the season so far, prevailing 33-31 over the Seattle Seahawks. Can their stand-in veteran QB Marcus Mariota pull off another match-winning performance on Sunday?

    London has become the Jacksonville Jaguars' second home over the last few years, and in 2026 they play not one but two games. If they win this weekend they'll take a handsome 3-1 record to the UK where they'll come up against the high-flying Philadelphia Eagles and then, across town at Wembley Stadium, the struggling Texans. You'll find a full schedule for the 2026 London Games below.

    Here's where to watch this year's NFL London Games and all NFL 2026 live streams online from anywhere – including FREE options.

    Can I watch NFL London Games 2026 for free?

    Yes, all three 2026 NFL London Games can be watched for FREE in selected territories around the world.

    In the UK itself, for example, they're going out on TV through Channel 5. That means the London Games also can be streamed live on the 5 website and app.

    Elsewhere, the UK-based NFL matchups will be shown for free on Virgin Media 2 and VM Play online in Ireland.

    • 🇬🇧 5 – UK
    • 🇮🇪 VM Play – Ireland

    Remember that, if you're traveling away from home, you can use a VPN to watch free NFL London Game 2026 streams from abroad on your usual streaming service. More details below.

    When are NFL London Games 2026?

    Sunday, October 4
    Indianapolis Colts vs Washington Commanders: 2.30pm BST / 9.30am ET / 12.30am AEDT (Mon)

    Sunday, October 11
    Philadelphia Eagles vs Jacksonville Jaguars: 2.30pm BST / 9.30am ET / 12.30am AEDT (Mon)

    Sunday, October 18
    Houston Texans vs Jacksonville Jaguars: 2.30pm BST / 9.30am ET / 12.30am AEDT (Mon)

    Use a VPN to watch any NFL London Games 2026 stream

    A VPN is a handy piece of software that can make your device appear as if it's back in your home country, so you can unlock your usual streaming services. One of our favorites is IPVanish – it does everything and comes with a 83% discount now.

    🟩 IPVanish – Just $2.49/month

    IPVanish is beginning to rank among the top VPN providers and it is a great option to unblock your NFL streaming service.

    ✅ Save up to 83%
    ✅ Just $2.49/month
    ✅ Unlocks 5, VM Play & more

    Get IPVanish and watch your NFL London live streams from anywhere.View Deal

    Using a VPN is incredibly simple:

    1. Install the VPN of your choice. As we've said, IPVanish is one of our favorites.

    2. Choose the location you wish to connect to in the VPN app. For instance, if you're visiting the US and want to view your usual British service, you'd select a United Kingdom server from the list.

    3. Sit back and enjoy the action. Head to your usual local streaming service and watch the 2026 NFL London Games.

    How to watch NFL 2026 live streams in the US

    US flag banner

    The NFL Network is the US home to all coverage from 2026's three London Games.

    The NFL Network is available through a variety of cable plans. Cut the cord? If all you care about is football, you can get access to the streams with NFL+ from $6.99 a month.

    Alternatively, Sling TV, is an OTT service that offers the NFL Network with its Blue package ($46 per month). A costlier but even more thorough cable alternative is Fubo, which includes the NFL Network alongside other NFL-showing networks such as CBS, Fox, NBC, ESPN and ABC. Prices start at $88.99 a month but new users get a FREE Fubo trial.

    Similarly, YouTube TV and Hulu + Live TV are other comprehensive OTT options, both of which you can try before you buy thanks to their free trials.

    How to watch NFL London Games 2026 live streams in the UK

    UK flag

    As mentioned above, Channel 5 and its 5 streaming platform will show all three NFL London Games absolutely FREE.

    The omnipresent Sky Sports will also show these games if you subscribe and prefer its presentation.

    Abroad when the games are on? Use IPVanish as described above to watch your free 5 stream as if you were back at home.

    How to watch NFL London Games 2026 live streams in Rest of World

    NFL Game Pass is the National Football League's dedicated streaming service, which allows die-hard football fans to watch every single game, including the international games like these three in London.

    It's available via DAZN everywhere except for the US and China. Prices vary from country to country, and get progressively cheaper throughout the season.

    Most countries also show games on TV and online domestically, too. For example, the following official broadcasters:

    Africa

    Click to see more 👇

    The NFL broadcast rights for Africa are held by ESPN, which provides coverage to sub-Saharan countries:

    Angola, Benin, Botswana, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cabo Verde, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Comoros, Republic of Congo, Democratic Republic of Congo, Cote d'Ivoire, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Eswatini, Ethiopia, Gabon, Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Kenya, Lesotho, Liberia, Madagascar, Malawi, Mali, Mauritania, Mauritius, Mozambique, Namibia, Niger, Nigeria, Rwanda, Sao Tome and Principe, Senegal, Seychelles, Sierra Leone, Somalia, South Africa, South Sudan, Sudan, Tanzania, Togo, Uganda, Zambia and Zimbabwe.

    Americas

    • Canada

    Although CTV is the free-to-air home of NFL in Canada, it doesn;t have the rights to show this trio of London Games. So you'll need the DAZN Game Pass instead.

    • Latin America

    ESPN has the broadcast rights to the 2026 NFL season across Latin America.

    • Brazil

    While ESPN is the main NFL broadcaster in Brazil (meaning streams also available on Disney+), selected games are also shown on SporTV and the ge TV YouTube channel.

    • Mexico

    The 2026 NFL rights are split between ESPN, Fox Sports, TV Sky Sports and TelevisaUnivision in Mexico.

    Europe

    DAZN holds the exclusive broadcast rights to stream the NFL in many countries across Europe:

    Austria, Belgium, Germany, Italy, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, Poland, Portugal and Switzerland.

    Many countries, including some of those listed above, also have some NFL 2026 coverage on traditional TV networks:

    • France

    Free-to-air M6 will show one 2026 NFL game every Sunday in France, plus a selection of playoffs games and the Super Bowl.

    Further coverage is available via beIN Sports.

    • Germany

    While DAZN is the main NFL rights-holder in Germany, select games will also be shown on RTL.

    • Ireland

    As explained above, Virgin Media and VM Play will show this year's London Games absolutely free. Sky Sports also has coverage.

    Asia

    • India

    Star Sports has the rights to the NFL in India.

    • Japan

    NTV G+ has the rights to show all NFL live streams in Japan, alongside DAZN/Game Pass.

    Oceania

    • Australia

    Several weekly games will be shown on ESPN and via Kayo Sports and Disney+ online, including the 2026 London Games.

    • New Zealand

    Free-to-air TVNZ will show at least two NFL games for free each week, but not the London games. As such, you'll instead need access to ESPN.

    Can I watch NFL London Games 2026 on my mobile?

    The vast majority of broadcasters mentioned in this article have streaming services that you can access through mobile apps or via your phone's browser – for example, 5 in the UK and VM Play in Australia.

    You can also stay up-to-date with the latest NFL news and plays on the official social media channels on X/Twitter (@NFL), Instagram (@NFL), TikTok (@NFL) and YouTube (@NFL).

    We test and review VPN services in the context of legal recreational uses. For example:1. Accessing a service from another country (subject to the terms and conditions of that service).2. Protecting your online security and strengthening your online privacy when abroad.We do not support or condone the illegal or malicious use of VPN services. Consuming pirated content that is paid-for is neither endorsed nor approved by Future Publishing.

    ]]>     https://www.techradar.com/how-to-watch/american-football/nfl-london-games-2026-free gyB74MveAvePzSvQRduJnc Sun, 04 Oct 2026 09:00:00 +0000 false false false

    Watch NFL London Games 2026 live streams as the National Football League makes its annual sojourn across the pond for a trio of games over the course of three Sundays in the UK capital.

    Having already taken the jamboree to Brazil and, for the first time, Australia, the now-customary NFL International Games get a three-week residency in London, England. First up at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, the Indianapolis Colts and Washington Commanders both make their first appearance in the UK for the first time in a decade. They have identical 1-2 season records heading into this one, but both recorded their first win of the season last week. While the Colts narrowly defeated the Houston Texans, the Commanders pulled off the shock of the season so far, prevailing 33-31 over the Seattle Seahawks. Can their stand-in veteran QB Marcus Mariota pull off another match-winning performance on Sunday?

    London has become the Jacksonville Jaguars' second home over the last few years, and in 2026 they play not one but two games. If they win this weekend they'll take a handsome 3-1 record to the UK where they'll come up against the high-flying Philadelphia Eagles and then, across town at Wembley Stadium, the struggling Texans. You'll find a full schedule for the 2026 London Games below.

    Here's where to watch this year's NFL London Games and all NFL 2026 live streams online from anywhere – including FREE options.

    Can I watch NFL London Games 2026 for free?

    Yes, all three 2026 NFL London Games can be watched for FREE in selected territories around the world.

    In the UK itself, for example, they're going out on TV through Channel 5. That means the London Games also can be streamed live on the 5 website and app.

    Elsewhere, the UK-based NFL matchups will be shown for free on Virgin Media 2 and VM Play online in Ireland.

    • 🇬🇧 5 – UK
    • 🇮🇪 VM Play – Ireland

    Remember that, if you're traveling away from home, you can use a VPN to watch free NFL London Game 2026 streams from abroad on your usual streaming service. More details below.

    When are NFL London Games 2026?

    Sunday, October 4
    Indianapolis Colts vs Washington Commanders: 2.30pm BST / 9.30am ET / 12.30am AEDT (Mon)

    Sunday, October 11
    Philadelphia Eagles vs Jacksonville Jaguars: 2.30pm BST / 9.30am ET / 12.30am AEDT (Mon)

    Sunday, October 18
    Houston Texans vs Jacksonville Jaguars: 2.30pm BST / 9.30am ET / 12.30am AEDT (Mon)

    Use a VPN to watch any NFL London Games 2026 stream

    A VPN is a handy piece of software that can make your device appear as if it's back in your home country, so you can unlock your usual streaming services. One of our favorites is IPVanish – it does everything and comes with a 83% discount now.

    🟩 IPVanish – Just $2.49/month

    IPVanish is beginning to rank among the top VPN providers and it is a great option to unblock your NFL streaming service.

    ✅ Save up to 83%
    ✅ Just $2.49/month
    ✅ Unlocks 5, VM Play & more

    Get IPVanish and watch your NFL London live streams from anywhere.View Deal

    Using a VPN is incredibly simple:

    1. Install the VPN of your choice. As we've said, IPVanish is one of our favorites.

    2. Choose the location you wish to connect to in the VPN app. For instance, if you're visiting the US and want to view your usual British service, you'd select a United Kingdom server from the list.

    3. Sit back and enjoy the action. Head to your usual local streaming service and watch the 2026 NFL London Games.

    How to watch NFL 2026 live streams in the US

    US flag banner

    The NFL Network is the US home to all coverage from 2026's three London Games.

    The NFL Network is available through a variety of cable plans. Cut the cord? If all you care about is football, you can get access to the streams with NFL+ from $6.99 a month.

    Alternatively, Sling TV, is an OTT service that offers the NFL Network with its Blue package ($46 per month). A costlier but even more thorough cable alternative is Fubo, which includes the NFL Network alongside other NFL-showing networks such as CBS, Fox, NBC, ESPN and ABC. Prices start at $88.99 a month but new users get a FREE Fubo trial.

    Similarly, YouTube TV and Hulu + Live TV are other comprehensive OTT options, both of which you can try before you buy thanks to their free trials.

    How to watch NFL London Games 2026 live streams in the UK

    UK flag

    As mentioned above, Channel 5 and its 5 streaming platform will show all three NFL London Games absolutely FREE.

    The omnipresent Sky Sports will also show these games if you subscribe and prefer its presentation.

    Abroad when the games are on? Use IPVanish as described above to watch your free 5 stream as if you were back at home.

    How to watch NFL London Games 2026 live streams in Rest of World

    NFL Game Pass is the National Football League's dedicated streaming service, which allows die-hard football fans to watch every single game, including the international games like these three in London.

    It's available via DAZN everywhere except for the US and China. Prices vary from country to country, and get progressively cheaper throughout the season.

    Most countries also show games on TV and online domestically, too. For example, the following official broadcasters:

    Africa

    Click to see more 👇

    The NFL broadcast rights for Africa are held by ESPN, which provides coverage to sub-Saharan countries:

    Angola, Benin, Botswana, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cabo Verde, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Comoros, Republic of Congo, Democratic Republic of Congo, Cote d'Ivoire, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Eswatini, Ethiopia, Gabon, Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Kenya, Lesotho, Liberia, Madagascar, Malawi, Mali, Mauritania, Mauritius, Mozambique, Namibia, Niger, Nigeria, Rwanda, Sao Tome and Principe, Senegal, Seychelles, Sierra Leone, Somalia, South Africa, South Sudan, Sudan, Tanzania, Togo, Uganda, Zambia and Zimbabwe.

    Americas

    • Canada

    Although CTV is the free-to-air home of NFL in Canada, it doesn;t have the rights to show this trio of London Games. So you'll need the DAZN Game Pass instead.

    • Latin America

    ESPN has the broadcast rights to the 2026 NFL season across Latin America.

    • Brazil

    While ESPN is the main NFL broadcaster in Brazil (meaning streams also available on Disney+), selected games are also shown on SporTV and the ge TV YouTube channel.

    • Mexico

    The 2026 NFL rights are split between ESPN, Fox Sports, TV Sky Sports and TelevisaUnivision in Mexico.

    Europe

    DAZN holds the exclusive broadcast rights to stream the NFL in many countries across Europe:

    Austria, Belgium, Germany, Italy, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, Poland, Portugal and Switzerland.

    Many countries, including some of those listed above, also have some NFL 2026 coverage on traditional TV networks:

    • France

    Free-to-air M6 will show one 2026 NFL game every Sunday in France, plus a selection of playoffs games and the Super Bowl.

    Further coverage is available via beIN Sports.

    • Germany

    While DAZN is the main NFL rights-holder in Germany, select games will also be shown on RTL.

    • Ireland

    As explained above, Virgin Media and VM Play will show this year's London Games absolutely free. Sky Sports also has coverage.

    Asia

    • India

    Star Sports has the rights to the NFL in India.

    • Japan

    NTV G+ has the rights to show all NFL live streams in Japan, alongside DAZN/Game Pass.

    Oceania

    • Australia

    Several weekly games will be shown on ESPN and via Kayo Sports and Disney+ online, including the 2026 London Games.

    • New Zealand

    Free-to-air TVNZ will show at least two NFL games for free each week, but not the London games. As such, you'll instead need access to ESPN.

    Can I watch NFL London Games 2026 on my mobile?

    The vast majority of broadcasters mentioned in this article have streaming services that you can access through mobile apps or via your phone's browser – for example, 5 in the UK and VM Play in Australia.

    You can also stay up-to-date with the latest NFL news and plays on the official social media channels on X/Twitter (@NFL), Instagram (@NFL), TikTok (@NFL) and YouTube (@NFL).

    We test and review VPN services in the context of legal recreational uses. For example:1. Accessing a service from another country (subject to the terms and conditions of that service).2. Protecting your online security and strengthening your online privacy when abroad.We do not support or condone the illegal or malicious use of VPN services. Consuming pirated content that is paid-for is neither endorsed nor approved by Future Publishing.

    ]]>     <![CDATA[ How to stream Pet Shop Boys album A Man from the Future for free online from anywhere ]]>
  • Pet Shop Boys' A Man from the Future will be broadcast on BBC Radio 6 Music and BBC Radio 3 on October 4 and you can catch it on BBC Sounds afterwards
  • Use NordVPN to unlock BBC Sounds from abroad (75% off right now)

    • Dive into this wonderful music experience as the iconic Pet Shop Boys re-record their composition known as A Man from the Future. The concept album – first performed for the BBC Proms in 2014 – tells the story of legendary codebreaker Alan Turing, and it's now being revised to give it all a more electric vibe, with the help of original orchestrator, Sven Helbig.

    Synth-pop duo Chris Lowe and Neil Tennant are releasing the reworked album on October 9, but before that they'll reveal to everyone what they've been working on. Stuart Maconie’s Freak Zone on BBC Radio 6 Music (Sunday, October 4, 8-10pm BST) will broadcast the new album in its entirety, with the presenter joined by Lowe, Tennant and Turing biographer Professor Andrew Hodges to talk through their creative process of bringing the Enigma story to life through electronic and orchestral song.

    Later that evening, the Unclassified show on BBC Radio 3 (11.30pm-12.30am) will also feature the recording, with presenter Elizabeth Alker interviewing the same trio on the 2014 original and its rousing update 12 years later.

    Across eight tracks, the Pet Shop Boys dissect Turing's brilliance, his impact on the world, and the way in which he was persecuted due to his sexuality. Lowe and Tennant are the men behind the album, but they'll be supported by the Manchester Camerata Octet, Manchester Grammar School Choir, BAFTA nominee Juliet Stevenson as narrator and plenty of other incredible backing vocalists.

    If you want to hear the magic being made, here's how to stream Pet Shop Boys’ A Man from the Future online and on the radio – from anywhere.

    Can I access Pet Shop Boys’ A Man from the Future for free?

    Yes. BBC Sounds will make Pet Shop Boys’ A Man from the Future available for free and on-demand for 30 days after its initial broadcast on the radio.

    You can also listen on the free radio stations BBC Radio 6 Music (8-10pm BST) and BBC Radio 3 (11.30pm-12.30am BST) on Sunday, October 4.

    Can't access the free stream because you're away on vacation? You need a VPN – more on that below.

    How to stream Pet Shop Boys’ A Man from the Future from anywhere

    If you're keen to listen to Pet Shop Boys’ A Man from the Future but you're away from the UK and access to the broadcast is geo-blocked, then you could use a VPN to access it (assuming you're not breaching any broadcaster T&Cs, of course). You may be surprised by how simple it is to do. Plus, we have a great 75% discount on our #1 VPN...

    Editors Choice

    🟩 NordVPN – get the world's best VPN

    Not having a VPN is like leaving your front door wide open in a busy city – anyone can walk right in and take a peek.

    TechRadar regularly reviews all the biggest and best VPN providers and NordVPN is our #1 choice

    ✅ Up to 75% Off Today
    ✅ 3 Extra Months Free
    ✅ Unlocks BBC Sounds

    Get NordVPN and stream Pet Shop Boys’ A Man from the Future online now – from wherever you are.VIEW DEAL ON

    How to stream Pet Shop Boys’ A Man from the Future in the UK

    UK flag

    In the UK, Pet Shop Boys’ A Man from the Future is available on BBC Sounds for free.

    You can also listen along on BBC Radio 6. The recording plays on Sunday, October 4 at 8pm BST. It will then play at 11:30 pm on BBC Radio 3.

    Outside the UK? If you're currently traveling outside the UK, you can use this VPN (try risk-free) to access UK content from abroad. We recommend NordVPN.

    Can you stream Pet Shop Boys’ A Man from the Future in the US?

    US flag banner

    Pet Shop Boys’ A Man from the Future will be confined to British radio and BBC Sounds, so you won't find a broadcast or stream in the States.

    There is a crude work around to listen to the BBC Radio 6 Music and BBC Radio 3 live broadcasts, though, via the BBC.com website. Functionality is limited. Our handy guide tells you how.

    If you're traveling around, you can use this VPN (try risk-free) to catch the show from anywhere. We recommend NordVPN.

    Can you stream Pet Shop Boys’ A Man from the Future in Canada?

    Canadian flag

    Similar to the US, Pet Shop Boys’ A Man from the Future is not available to stream in Canada on BBC Sounds.

    The same crude workaround on the BBC.com website applies, though.

    The solution? Use a VPN to gain access to all the content you'd normally stream at home.

    Can you stream Pet Shop Boys’ A Man from the Future in Australia?

    Australian flag

    (Image credit: free)

    Like in the US and Canada, Pet Shop Boys’ A Man from the Future will not be available to stream or listen to on any stations or services Down Under on BBC Sounds.

    Try our handy guide that explains a work around.

    Away from the UK? Use NordVPN to access your usual shows from anywhere in the world.

    Pet Shop Boys' A Man from the Future need to know

    Who is involved?

    • Chris Lowe – original programming, keyboards
    • Neil Tennant – original programming, keyboards, vocals
    • Juliet Stevenson – narration
    • Manchester Camerata Octet
    • Manchester Grammar School Choir
    • Robert Carey – choir conductor
    • Abimbola Amoako-Gyampah – backing vocals
    • Senab Adekunle – backing vocals
    • Dawn Joseph – backing vocals
    • Joell Fender – backing vocals
    • Sven Helbig – production, string arrangement
    • Pet Shop Boys – production
    • Maarten Vos – additional production, programming, synthesisers
    • Brendan Williams – strings and choir recording
    • Pete Gleadall – vocals recording
    • Olsen Involtini – mixing
    • Zino Mikorey – mastering
    • Mark Farrow – album design

    What have the Pet Shop Boys said?

    Speaking to the BBC, the band said: "Our motive in creating this work was to make a musical memorial to Alan Turing who gave so much to his country and the world and was rewarded for it by being prosecuted for his sexuality.

    "Alan made a massive contribution to the defeat of Germany in World War Two and was a pioneer of computing, imagining a world with intelligent computers. He also looked forward to a time when being gay would be accepted as normal. In both his professional and private lives, he was ahead of his time."

    You may also like to read...

    We test and review VPN services in the context of legal recreational uses. For example:1. Accessing a service from another country (subject to the terms and conditions of that service).2. Protecting your online security and strengthening your online privacy when abroad.We do not support or condone the illegal or malicious use of VPN services. Consuming pirated content that is paid-for is neither endorsed nor approved by Future Publishing.

    ]]>     https://www.techradar.com/how-to-watch/how-to-watch-pet-shop-boys-a-man-from-the-future skcqA4DFtPmCirkeE2bgM7 Sun, 04 Oct 2026 07:00:00 +0000 false false false

    Dive into this wonderful music experience as the iconic Pet Shop Boys re-record their composition known as A Man from the Future. The concept album – first performed for the BBC Proms in 2014 – tells the story of legendary codebreaker Alan Turing, and it's now being revised to give it all a more electric vibe, with the help of original orchestrator, Sven Helbig.

    Synth-pop duo Chris Lowe and Neil Tennant are releasing the reworked album on October 9, but before that they'll reveal to everyone what they've been working on. Stuart Maconie’s Freak Zone on BBC Radio 6 Music (Sunday, October 4, 8-10pm BST) will broadcast the new album in its entirety, with the presenter joined by Lowe, Tennant and Turing biographer Professor Andrew Hodges to talk through their creative process of bringing the Enigma story to life through electronic and orchestral song.

    Later that evening, the Unclassified show on BBC Radio 3 (11.30pm-12.30am) will also feature the recording, with presenter Elizabeth Alker interviewing the same trio on the 2014 original and its rousing update 12 years later.

    Across eight tracks, the Pet Shop Boys dissect Turing's brilliance, his impact on the world, and the way in which he was persecuted due to his sexuality. Lowe and Tennant are the men behind the album, but they'll be supported by the Manchester Camerata Octet, Manchester Grammar School Choir, BAFTA nominee Juliet Stevenson as narrator and plenty of other incredible backing vocalists.

    If you want to hear the magic being made, here's how to stream Pet Shop Boys’ A Man from the Future online and on the radio – from anywhere.

    Can I access Pet Shop Boys’ A Man from the Future for free?

    Yes. BBC Sounds will make Pet Shop Boys’ A Man from the Future available for free and on-demand for 30 days after its initial broadcast on the radio.

    You can also listen on the free radio stations BBC Radio 6 Music (8-10pm BST) and BBC Radio 3 (11.30pm-12.30am BST) on Sunday, October 4.

    Can't access the free stream because you're away on vacation? You need a VPN – more on that below.

    How to stream Pet Shop Boys’ A Man from the Future from anywhere

    If you're keen to listen to Pet Shop Boys’ A Man from the Future but you're away from the UK and access to the broadcast is geo-blocked, then you could use a VPN to access it (assuming you're not breaching any broadcaster T&Cs, of course). You may be surprised by how simple it is to do. Plus, we have a great 75% discount on our #1 VPN...

    Editors Choice

    🟩 NordVPN – get the world's best VPN

    Not having a VPN is like leaving your front door wide open in a busy city – anyone can walk right in and take a peek.

    TechRadar regularly reviews all the biggest and best VPN providers and NordVPN is our #1 choice

    ✅ Up to 75% Off Today
    ✅ 3 Extra Months Free
    ✅ Unlocks BBC Sounds

    Get NordVPN and stream Pet Shop Boys’ A Man from the Future online now – from wherever you are.VIEW DEAL ON

    How to stream Pet Shop Boys’ A Man from the Future in the UK

    UK flag

    In the UK, Pet Shop Boys’ A Man from the Future is available on BBC Sounds for free.

    You can also listen along on BBC Radio 6. The recording plays on Sunday, October 4 at 8pm BST. It will then play at 11:30 pm on BBC Radio 3.

    Outside the UK? If you're currently traveling outside the UK, you can use this VPN (try risk-free) to access UK content from abroad. We recommend NordVPN.

    Can you stream Pet Shop Boys’ A Man from the Future in the US?

    US flag banner

    Pet Shop Boys’ A Man from the Future will be confined to British radio and BBC Sounds, so you won't find a broadcast or stream in the States.

    There is a crude work around to listen to the BBC Radio 6 Music and BBC Radio 3 live broadcasts, though, via the BBC.com website. Functionality is limited. Our handy guide tells you how.

    If you're traveling around, you can use this VPN (try risk-free) to catch the show from anywhere. We recommend NordVPN.

    Can you stream Pet Shop Boys’ A Man from the Future in Canada?

    Canadian flag

    Similar to the US, Pet Shop Boys’ A Man from the Future is not available to stream in Canada on BBC Sounds.

    The same crude workaround on the BBC.com website applies, though.

    The solution? Use a VPN to gain access to all the content you'd normally stream at home.

    Can you stream Pet Shop Boys’ A Man from the Future in Australia?

    Australian flag

    (Image credit: free)

    Like in the US and Canada, Pet Shop Boys’ A Man from the Future will not be available to stream or listen to on any stations or services Down Under on BBC Sounds.

    Try our handy guide that explains a work around.

    Away from the UK? Use NordVPN to access your usual shows from anywhere in the world.

    Pet Shop Boys' A Man from the Future need to know

    Who is involved?

    • Chris Lowe – original programming, keyboards
    • Neil Tennant – original programming, keyboards, vocals
    • Juliet Stevenson – narration
    • Manchester Camerata Octet
    • Manchester Grammar School Choir
    • Robert Carey – choir conductor
    • Abimbola Amoako-Gyampah – backing vocals
    • Senab Adekunle – backing vocals
    • Dawn Joseph – backing vocals
    • Joell Fender – backing vocals
    • Sven Helbig – production, string arrangement
    • Pet Shop Boys – production
    • Maarten Vos – additional production, programming, synthesisers
    • Brendan Williams – strings and choir recording
    • Pete Gleadall – vocals recording
    • Olsen Involtini – mixing
    • Zino Mikorey – mastering
    • Mark Farrow – album design

    What have the Pet Shop Boys said?

    Speaking to the BBC, the band said: "Our motive in creating this work was to make a musical memorial to Alan Turing who gave so much to his country and the world and was rewarded for it by being prosecuted for his sexuality.

    "Alan made a massive contribution to the defeat of Germany in World War Two and was a pioneer of computing, imagining a world with intelligent computers. He also looked forward to a time when being gay would be accepted as normal. In both his professional and private lives, he was ahead of his time."

    You may also like to read...

    We test and review VPN services in the context of legal recreational uses. For example:1. Accessing a service from another country (subject to the terms and conditions of that service).2. Protecting your online security and strengthening your online privacy when abroad.We do not support or condone the illegal or malicious use of VPN services. Consuming pirated content that is paid-for is neither endorsed nor approved by Future Publishing.

    ]]>     <![CDATA[ Belkin Travel Bag for Nintendo Switch 2 review: A superb sling for your Switch 2 setup ]]> Belkin Travel Bag for Nintendo Switch 2: review

    Belkin’s Switch 2 travel bag is designed to carry your console and its various accessories in comfort, while providing protection from the elements and more.

    As Switch 2 cases go, it's a somewhat plain affair. While the slight ruching of the outer material lends it a rugged appearance, and the green and lilac colorways are more lively than the black variant, there’s little in the way of branding or fanfare. This may disappoint those looking to make more of a statement, but those looking to stay discreet will no doubt be pleased with Belkin’s utilitarian approach.

    Belkin Travel Bag for Nintendo Switch 2

    (Image credit: Future)

    Its materials, though, should appeal to everyone and rank among the best Nintendo Switch 2 accessories on this front. The outer fabric is soft and smooth, which, along with its ergonomic form and minimal weight, makes it very comfortable against your back. It’s not unlike something you might find lining a piece of outdoor kit — although it’s worth noting that Belkin doesn’t mention anything about the bag being water- or even splashproof.

    The shoulder strap is also well made. It too feels smooth and comfortable; it didn’t dig into my collarbone, as such straps often do, despite lacking a padded covering. There’s more than enough adjustability to accommodate a broad range of user heights and preferences. Admittedly, actually adjusting the buckle can be a little hard sometimes, but this is a price I’m willing to pay in return for a secure fit.

    What’s more, you can easily wear the bag over any shoulder, thanks to two fastening points at the bottom. You can attach it to either of these via the plastic carabiner at the end of the strap, which is strong enough to be secure, yet still easy to unhook when needed, thanks to the angling of the mechanism that makes it easier to push in.

    Belkin Travel Bag for Nintendo Switch 2

    (Image credit: Future)

    In addition to the shoulder strap, there’s also a carrying handle at the top. This is slightly padded and soft in the hand, making it comfortable to hold.

    The main compartment has a fair amount of space inside, with enough room to fit multiple accessories, including the Nintendo Switch 2 dock, controllers, power cables, and more. Its wide opening makes for easy access, too, thanks to the zips that run almost the entire length of both sides. They operate very smoothly, and I rarely experienced any snagging.

    Within the main compartment are three others. One is designed for the console itself, and is lined with an exquisitely soft felt that prevents your screen from scuffs and scratches. A hook-and-loop strap goes over the top, which is quite slack, even with your Joy-Cons attached. However, the snug fit of the pouch itself is sufficient to keep your console in place.

    Belkin Travel Bag for Nintendo Switch 2

    (Image credit: Future)

    What’s more, this slackness is actually a positive, since it allows you to store your console with bulkier, third-party controllers attached. For instance, I managed to fit the console in with CRKD’s Nitro Deck 2 attached.

    Attached to the outside of the console compartment is another compartment that contains the game card sleeve, which is easily removable. The sleeve fits a reasonable 10 cards, but there are other Switch 2 cases that hold more, such as Turtle Beach’s PlayTrek 2-in-1 case (14) and PlayTrek travel case (12).

    The compartment itself isn’t felt-lined, but it still has a soft material. You’ll struggle to fit much in the pouch inside, and anything bulky will compromise the space needed for the adjacent console compartment.

    Belkin Travel Bag for Nintendo Switch 2

    (Image credit: Future)

    For such items, the netting opposite is more appropriate. It’s big enough to fit cables, power adapters, and both Joy-Con 2 controllers, although probably not all at the same time. And while the netting expands a fair amount, it has a tendency to sag when it’s fully loaded, even if the items in question aren’t particularly heavy. I also noticed that pointed items, such as paper manuals and the like, can stick right through its holes — a minor gripe, but one worth pointing out nevertheless.

    On the outside of the bag, there’s a simple zip pocket on the front, which covers almost the entire length of the bag and is roomy enough to fit a few larger items, but you won’t fit items such as the dock, for instance.

    Belkin Travel Bag for Nintendo Switch 2

    (Image credit: Future)

    On the matter of protection, the bag has a fair amount of cushioning on the bottom — which Belkin describes as an “impact-resistant base” — and around the sides. However, there’s less on the front and back, and since this isn’t a hard shell case, I wouldn’t be confident piling heavy items on top of it.

    But if you don’t need this level of sturdiness, Belkin’s travel bag offers a lot more besides, and for a reasonable price at that. If you’re in the market for a light and comfortable over-the-shoulder bag for your Switch 2 and its accessories, it’s a fine choice that’s hard to beat.

    Belkin Travel Bag for Nintendo Switch 2 review: Price & Specs

    Price

    $49.99 / £29.99 (about AU$54.95)

    Dimensions

    12.7 x 5.9 x 3.1in / 322 x 150 x 80mm

    Weight

    12.7oz / 360g

    Game card slots

    10

    Compartments

    7

    Handle

    Yes

    Color

    Black, Lilac, Olive

    Should I buy the Belkin Travel Bag for Nintendo Switch 2?

    Scorecard

    Attributes

    Notes

    Rating

    Design

    Very comfortable to wear, and every material feels high quality. It won’t provide as much protection as a hard shell, though.

    4.5 / 5

    Storage

    Plenty of space and compartments, and the removable game card pouch is a smart addition, even if it doesn’t hold as many cards as some others.

    4 / 5

    Value

    Considering the quality and features, it’s hard to do better at this price.

    5 / 5

    Buy it if…

    You want to carry your Switch 2 over your shoulder
    This is a very comfortable bag to wear, and can be adjusted to better fit whatever shoulder you choose to sling it over.

    You want plenty of compartments
    Despite its compact dimensions, there are plenty of compartments to keep your console and various accessories neat and separated.

    Don't buy it if…

    You want the ultimate protection
    Given the soft materials, this isn’t a bag you’d want to chuck around or pile luggage onto.

    You want the most game card slots
    10 game card slots is pretty good, but there are Switch 2 cases out there featuring more.

    Belkin Travel Bag for Nintendo Switch 2 review: Also consider

    Turtle Beach PlayTrek 2-in-1 Case
    As its name suggests, this PlayTrek product integrates a small case with a large one, featuring molds for your console, dock, power adapter, Joy-Cons, and a full-size controller. It has more game card slots than Belkin’s bag, too, and although the small case is soft, the large one is more of a hard shell. Read our full Turtle Beach PlayTrek 2-in-1 Case review.

    How I tested the Belkin Travel Bag for Nintendo Switch 2

    Belkin Travel Bag for Nintendo Switch 2

    (Image credit: Future)

    I tested Belkin’s travel bag for a couple of days, making sure to fill every compartment, fasten every zip, and adjust the strap length across its full range, as well as attaching it to both hook points. I carried it around on my commutes, fully loaded with the Switch 2 and numerous accessories.

    I filled the bag with cables, manuals, and the Joy-Con 2s. I also stored the console with the CRKD Nitro Deck 2 attached to test the capacity of the console storage compartment.

    • Read more about how we test
    • First reviewed: October 2026
    ]]>     https://www.techradar.com/gaming/gaming-accessories/belkin-travel-bag-for-nintendo-switch-2-review yTmJqRujVKcF76qfraSzbb Sun, 04 Oct 2026 07:00:00 +0000 false false false

    Belkin Travel Bag for Nintendo Switch 2: review

    Belkin’s Switch 2 travel bag is designed to carry your console and its various accessories in comfort, while providing protection from the elements and more.

    As Switch 2 cases go, it's a somewhat plain affair. While the slight ruching of the outer material lends it a rugged appearance, and the green and lilac colorways are more lively than the black variant, there’s little in the way of branding or fanfare. This may disappoint those looking to make more of a statement, but those looking to stay discreet will no doubt be pleased with Belkin’s utilitarian approach.

    Belkin Travel Bag for Nintendo Switch 2

    (Image credit: Future)

    Its materials, though, should appeal to everyone and rank among the best Nintendo Switch 2 accessories on this front. The outer fabric is soft and smooth, which, along with its ergonomic form and minimal weight, makes it very comfortable against your back. It’s not unlike something you might find lining a piece of outdoor kit — although it’s worth noting that Belkin doesn’t mention anything about the bag being water- or even splashproof.

    The shoulder strap is also well made. It too feels smooth and comfortable; it didn’t dig into my collarbone, as such straps often do, despite lacking a padded covering. There’s more than enough adjustability to accommodate a broad range of user heights and preferences. Admittedly, actually adjusting the buckle can be a little hard sometimes, but this is a price I’m willing to pay in return for a secure fit.

    What’s more, you can easily wear the bag over any shoulder, thanks to two fastening points at the bottom. You can attach it to either of these via the plastic carabiner at the end of the strap, which is strong enough to be secure, yet still easy to unhook when needed, thanks to the angling of the mechanism that makes it easier to push in.

    Belkin Travel Bag for Nintendo Switch 2

    (Image credit: Future)

    In addition to the shoulder strap, there’s also a carrying handle at the top. This is slightly padded and soft in the hand, making it comfortable to hold.

    The main compartment has a fair amount of space inside, with enough room to fit multiple accessories, including the Nintendo Switch 2 dock, controllers, power cables, and more. Its wide opening makes for easy access, too, thanks to the zips that run almost the entire length of both sides. They operate very smoothly, and I rarely experienced any snagging.

    Within the main compartment are three others. One is designed for the console itself, and is lined with an exquisitely soft felt that prevents your screen from scuffs and scratches. A hook-and-loop strap goes over the top, which is quite slack, even with your Joy-Cons attached. However, the snug fit of the pouch itself is sufficient to keep your console in place.

    Belkin Travel Bag for Nintendo Switch 2

    (Image credit: Future)

    What’s more, this slackness is actually a positive, since it allows you to store your console with bulkier, third-party controllers attached. For instance, I managed to fit the console in with CRKD’s Nitro Deck 2 attached.

    Attached to the outside of the console compartment is another compartment that contains the game card sleeve, which is easily removable. The sleeve fits a reasonable 10 cards, but there are other Switch 2 cases that hold more, such as Turtle Beach’s PlayTrek 2-in-1 case (14) and PlayTrek travel case (12).

    The compartment itself isn’t felt-lined, but it still has a soft material. You’ll struggle to fit much in the pouch inside, and anything bulky will compromise the space needed for the adjacent console compartment.

    Belkin Travel Bag for Nintendo Switch 2

    (Image credit: Future)

    For such items, the netting opposite is more appropriate. It’s big enough to fit cables, power adapters, and both Joy-Con 2 controllers, although probably not all at the same time. And while the netting expands a fair amount, it has a tendency to sag when it’s fully loaded, even if the items in question aren’t particularly heavy. I also noticed that pointed items, such as paper manuals and the like, can stick right through its holes — a minor gripe, but one worth pointing out nevertheless.

    On the outside of the bag, there’s a simple zip pocket on the front, which covers almost the entire length of the bag and is roomy enough to fit a few larger items, but you won’t fit items such as the dock, for instance.

    Belkin Travel Bag for Nintendo Switch 2

    (Image credit: Future)

    On the matter of protection, the bag has a fair amount of cushioning on the bottom — which Belkin describes as an “impact-resistant base” — and around the sides. However, there’s less on the front and back, and since this isn’t a hard shell case, I wouldn’t be confident piling heavy items on top of it.

    But if you don’t need this level of sturdiness, Belkin’s travel bag offers a lot more besides, and for a reasonable price at that. If you’re in the market for a light and comfortable over-the-shoulder bag for your Switch 2 and its accessories, it’s a fine choice that’s hard to beat.

    Belkin Travel Bag for Nintendo Switch 2 review: Price & Specs

    Price

    $49.99 / £29.99 (about AU$54.95)

    Dimensions

    12.7 x 5.9 x 3.1in / 322 x 150 x 80mm

    Weight

    12.7oz / 360g

    Game card slots

    10

    Compartments

    7

    Handle

    Yes

    Color

    Black, Lilac, Olive

    Should I buy the Belkin Travel Bag for Nintendo Switch 2?

    Scorecard

    Attributes

    Notes

    Rating

    Design

    Very comfortable to wear, and every material feels high quality. It won’t provide as much protection as a hard shell, though.

    4.5 / 5

    Storage

    Plenty of space and compartments, and the removable game card pouch is a smart addition, even if it doesn’t hold as many cards as some others.

    4 / 5

    Value

    Considering the quality and features, it’s hard to do better at this price.

    5 / 5

    Buy it if…

    You want to carry your Switch 2 over your shoulder
    This is a very comfortable bag to wear, and can be adjusted to better fit whatever shoulder you choose to sling it over.

    You want plenty of compartments
    Despite its compact dimensions, there are plenty of compartments to keep your console and various accessories neat and separated.

    Don't buy it if…

    You want the ultimate protection
    Given the soft materials, this isn’t a bag you’d want to chuck around or pile luggage onto.

    You want the most game card slots
    10 game card slots is pretty good, but there are Switch 2 cases out there featuring more.

    Belkin Travel Bag for Nintendo Switch 2 review: Also consider

    Turtle Beach PlayTrek 2-in-1 Case
    As its name suggests, this PlayTrek product integrates a small case with a large one, featuring molds for your console, dock, power adapter, Joy-Cons, and a full-size controller. It has more game card slots than Belkin’s bag, too, and although the small case is soft, the large one is more of a hard shell. Read our full Turtle Beach PlayTrek 2-in-1 Case review.

    How I tested the Belkin Travel Bag for Nintendo Switch 2

    Belkin Travel Bag for Nintendo Switch 2

    (Image credit: Future)

    I tested Belkin’s travel bag for a couple of days, making sure to fill every compartment, fasten every zip, and adjust the strap length across its full range, as well as attaching it to both hook points. I carried it around on my commutes, fully loaded with the Switch 2 and numerous accessories.

    I filled the bag with cables, manuals, and the Joy-Con 2s. I also stored the console with the CRKD Nitro Deck 2 attached to test the capacity of the console storage compartment.

    • Read more about how we test
    • First reviewed: October 2026
    ]]>     <![CDATA[ Beware the smartphone security threat — new report claims most banking scam attempts now take place on mobile devices ]]>
  • Scammers are increasingly targetting mobile users with banking scams
  • Attempts at banking scams increased by 35% over the past 12 months
  • Employment scams are also growing, tempting victims with promises of high wages and job satisfaction – for a price

    • New research has claimed banking scam fraudsters are increasingly focusing on mobile devices, with a 35% increase in such scams over the last 12 months. Rather than attempt to con victims via landline or email, banking scams are now almost wholly aiming at mobile devices – from where victims can easily transfer money.

    The report from BioCatch has highlighted a range scams that are growing in prevalence, including romance scams and investment scams.

    However, while banking scams represent a key challenge, it is purchase scams that are the most common, accounting for 33% of all scam attempts.

    Global fraud

    The proliferation of mobile phones around the world and the availability of banking apps is an advantage to scammers, but they use all manner of strategies to part victims with their cash. BioCatch’s research shows that 90% of all scams take place via a mobile phone, with romance scams increasing by 23% on the last year and investment scams the most costly, with an average case value of $6,600.

    BioCatch has identified that artificial intelligence techniques are used by both the scammers and the banks.

    "Social engineering scams have not suddenly become less prevalent or sophisticated," noted Director of Global Fraud Intelligence at BioCatch, Thomas Peacock. "If anything, artificial intelligence has lowered the barrier to entry for aspiring scammers, allowing more bad actors to create more convincing scams at a scale we’ve never seen before. In response, many banks have realised behavioural intelligence enables them to recognise signs of manipulation and coercion before an accountholder ever authorises a transaction.”

    Theft without the break-in

    The risk from banking scams relies on two key factors: the fraudsters’ use of manipulative, persuasive strategies to force an irrational financial-based panic in the victim, and the ease with which money can be moved around via a mobile banking app.

    Although mobile banking is hugely convenient for honest citizens, it is also proving to be a boon for the scammers. As BioCatch’s Director of Global Advisory Jonathan Frost says, “Scammers don't need to break into an account if they can persuade the customer to move the money for them. That is the challenge banks face today with investment and romance scams, where customers are manipulated into making payments they believe are legitimate.”

    Different territories have their own rules for helping victims of these scams. In the UK, protection is available. “Reimbursement in the UK protects victims financially after the event, but it does not stop the scam from succeeding. The priority now has to be preventing the payment from reaching the criminal in the first place.”

    The challenge is to ensure everyone knows the risks from banking scams.

    ]]>     https://www.techradar.com/pro/security/beware-the-smartphone-security-threat-new-report-claims-most-banking-scam-attempts-now-take-place-on-mobile-devices QkeuQtorVWztH3UMF5xGoH Sun, 04 Oct 2026 06:00:00 +0000 false false false
    • Scammers are increasingly targetting mobile users with banking scams
    • Attempts at banking scams increased by 35% over the past 12 months
    • Employment scams are also growing, tempting victims with promises of high wages and job satisfaction – for a price

    New research has claimed banking scam fraudsters are increasingly focusing on mobile devices, with a 35% increase in such scams over the last 12 months. Rather than attempt to con victims via landline or email, banking scams are now almost wholly aiming at mobile devices – from where victims can easily transfer money.

    The report from BioCatch has highlighted a range scams that are growing in prevalence, including romance scams and investment scams.

    However, while banking scams represent a key challenge, it is purchase scams that are the most common, accounting for 33% of all scam attempts.

    Global fraud

    The proliferation of mobile phones around the world and the availability of banking apps is an advantage to scammers, but they use all manner of strategies to part victims with their cash. BioCatch’s research shows that 90% of all scams take place via a mobile phone, with romance scams increasing by 23% on the last year and investment scams the most costly, with an average case value of $6,600.

    BioCatch has identified that artificial intelligence techniques are used by both the scammers and the banks.

    "Social engineering scams have not suddenly become less prevalent or sophisticated," noted Director of Global Fraud Intelligence at BioCatch, Thomas Peacock. "If anything, artificial intelligence has lowered the barrier to entry for aspiring scammers, allowing more bad actors to create more convincing scams at a scale we’ve never seen before. In response, many banks have realised behavioural intelligence enables them to recognise signs of manipulation and coercion before an accountholder ever authorises a transaction.”

    Theft without the break-in

    The risk from banking scams relies on two key factors: the fraudsters’ use of manipulative, persuasive strategies to force an irrational financial-based panic in the victim, and the ease with which money can be moved around via a mobile banking app.

    Although mobile banking is hugely convenient for honest citizens, it is also proving to be a boon for the scammers. As BioCatch’s Director of Global Advisory Jonathan Frost says, “Scammers don't need to break into an account if they can persuade the customer to move the money for them. That is the challenge banks face today with investment and romance scams, where customers are manipulated into making payments they believe are legitimate.”

    Different territories have their own rules for helping victims of these scams. In the UK, protection is available. “Reimbursement in the UK protects victims financially after the event, but it does not stop the scam from succeeding. The priority now has to be preventing the payment from reaching the criminal in the first place.”

    The challenge is to ensure everyone knows the risks from banking scams.

    ]]>     <![CDATA[ How to watch NRL Grand Final 2026 for FREE: Live streams ]]>
  • Watch NRL Grand Final 2026 FREE on 9Now (Australia)
  • Unlock your stream with NordVPN (save up to 75%)
  • Roosters vs Knights kick-off: Sun, Oct 4, 4.30am ET / 9.30am BST / 7.30pm AEDT

    • The 2026 NRL Grand Final is serving up a David vs Goliath clash between the Roosters and the Knights at Accor Stadium. Whereas Sydney have reached eight previous Grand Finals and won four of them, including two in the past decade, for the past 15 years Newcastle fans have been more concerned with survival than the Provan-Summons Trophy. The Knights were wooden-spooners for the fifth time last season.

    Newcastle's one and only previous Grand Final appearance came in 2001, an upset win over the Eels. Produce the goods again on Sunday and they'll go down in NRL lore – the last team to go from last to first were the 1934 Western Suburbs. You wouldn't rule anything out. Justin Holbrook's men finished seventh in the ladder but have taken down minor premiers Penrith and second-place finishers New Zealand en route to the Grand Final. They were trailing the Panthers and down to 12 men last weekend due to Phoenix Crossland's awful tackle on Nathan Cleary, but pulled off a stunning comeback thanks to the combined excellence of Tyson Frizell, Sandon Smith and Kalyn Ponga.

    The Roosters, meanwhile, are very comfortable on this stage, and the NRL Grand Final is effectively a home match for Trent Robinson's men. They flew out of the traps to throw the Dolphins off their game last weekend, and if their forwards, led by Victor Radley, can capture that same intensity here it could be a long day for the Knights. On a personal note, Mark Nawaqanitawase is looking to sign off in style before jetting off to Japan to cross codes again.

    Read on as we explain how to watch Roosters vs Knights for free in the 2026 NRL Grand Final.

    Can you watch NRL Grand Final 2026 for free?

    Yes. The Roosters vs Knights is being shown on free-to-air Channel Nine in Australia.

    Stream the NRL Grand Final 2026 free on 9Now

    New to 9Now? Register for a free account to watch 9Now online.

    Don't forget. You will need an Australian postcode (e.g. 2026) to access the Nine Network's streaming service.

    Traveling outside Australia today? You can use a VPN to watch all the action free of charge as if you were back at home. NordVPN can unblock the free stream for you.View Deal

    How to watch NRL Grand Final 2026 from anywhere

    A VPN is handy piece of software that can make your device appear as if it's back in your home country, so you can unlock your usual service. The best VPN right now? We recommend NordVPN – it does everything and comes with up to 75% off.

    🟩 NordVPN – get the world's best VPN

    Not having a VPN is like leaving your front door wide open in a busy city – anyone can walk right in and take a peek.

    TechRadar regularly reviews all the biggest and best VPN providers and NordVPN is our #1 choice.

    ✅ Up to 75% off today
    ✅ 3 extra months free
    ✅ Unlocks 9Now

    Get NordVPN and stream NRL Grand Final 2026 live from anywhere.View Deal

    How to watch NRL Grand Final 2026 live streams in the USA

    US flag banner

    Rugby league fans in the US can watch NRL Grand Final 2026 on FS2 and Fox One.

    Fox One starts at $19.99/month or $99/year after a 3-day free trial.

    FS2 is carried by several OTT streaming platforms, such as YouTube TV and Fubo, each of which offers new customers a free trial.

    Sling TV's $19.99/month Select and $45.99/month Blue plans also include access to the Fox One app.

    The Roosters vs Knighst game is also being shown on dedicated streaming platform Watch NRL for $34.

    Outside of the US? Use a VPN whilst you're traveling away from home to unlock your stream.

    How to watch NRL Grand Final 2026 live streams in Australia

    Australian flag

    Free-to-air Channel Nine is showing NRL Grand Final 2026 in Australia, with live streaming available via 9Now.

    Just create an account using a valid Australia postcode (e.g. 2042).

    Not in Australia right now? You can use a VPN like NordVPN to watch Roosters vs Knights as if you were back home.

    How to watch NRL Grand Final 2026 live streams in New Zealand

    New Zealand flag

    In New Zealand, Sky Sport NZ is showing NRL Grand Final 2026 on the Sky Sport 1 channel.

    You can access Sky Sport through satellite TV or get a live stream, with the Sky Sport Now subscription service starting at NZ$29.99 per day or NZ$59.99 per month.

    Those outside of New Zealand can use NordVPN to gain access to their home streaming service.

    How to watch NRL Grand Final 2026 live streams in the UK

    uk flag banner

    The 2026 NRL Grand Final is available to watch on Sky Sports Mix and Sky Sports+ in the UK.

    Sky Sports packages start at £35/month, with £20/month pricing available to existing Sky customers. You can also tune in via a NOW Sports membership that carries the Sky Sports channels.

    The Roosters vs Knights clash is also available through Watch NRL for £28.

    Away from home? Unlock your NRL Grand Final stream with NordVPN.

    How to watch NRL Grand Final 2026 live streams in Canada

    canada

    The 2026 NRL Grand Final is available to watch on Sportsnet in Canada.

    If you don't have cable, the Sportsnet+ streaming service starts at CA$34.99/month or CA$269.99/year.

    The Roosters vs Knights game is also available to stream live on Watch NRL for CA$46.

    If you're out of Canada but still want to tune in, explore the VPN route set out above, which will help you access your accounts from anywhere.

    How to watch NRL Grand Final 2026 live streams in the rest of the world

    The 2026 NRL Grand Final is being shown on the dedicated Watch NRL streaming platform, which is available in all territories except for Australia, New Zealand, the Pacific Islands and other selected sanctioned jurisdictions (e.g. Russia, Belarus, Cuba, Iran, North Korea).

    Check the website for pricing in your region. Once subscribed, you can stream Watch NRL on phones, tablets, laptops, or the Apple TV app.

    Many countries also show games on TV and online through their domestic broadcasters.

    What is the NRL Grand Final 2026 start time?

    The scheduled NRL Grand Final 2026 kick-off time on Sunday, October 4 is 7.30pm AEDT local time in Sydney, which is 4.30am ET / 9.30am BST.

    What is the Roosters vs Knights head-to-head?

    The Roosters and Knights have contested 67 competitive games. Sydney won 42 of them, and Newcastle 22.

    This season, the head-to-head stands at 2-0 in the Roosters' favour.

    What are the NRL Grand Final 2026 teams?

    Roosters

    1. James Tedesco 2. Daniel Tupou 3. Billy Smith 4. Robert Toia 5. Mark Nawaqanitawase 6. Daly Cherry-Evans 7. Sam Walker 8. Naufahu Whyte 9. Reece Robson 10. Lindsay Collins 11. Salesi Foketi 12. Siua Wong 13. Victor Radley. Replacements: 14. Connor Watson 15. Angus Crichton 16. Nat Butcher 17. Spencer Leniu 18. Hugo Savala 19. Cody Ramsey Reserves: 20. Benaiah Ioelu 21. Tommy Talau 22. Egan Butcher

    Knights

    1. Kalyn Ponga 2. Dominic Young 3. Dane Gagai 4. Bradman Best 5. Greg Marzhew 6. Fletcher Sharpe 7. Sandon Smith 8. Tyson Frizell 9. Phoenix Crossland 10. Cody Hopwood 11. Jermaine McEwen 12. Francis Manuleleua 13. Mathew Croker. Replacements: 14. Harrison Graham 15. Lachlan Crouch 16. Pasami Saulo 17. Dylan Lucas 18. Fletcher Hunt 19. Thomas Cant Reserves: 20. Kyle McCarthy 21. Diesel Hagan 22. Elijah Leaumoana

    Can I watch NRL Grand Final 2026 on my mobile?

    Of course, most broadcasters have streaming services that you can access through mobile apps or via your phone's browser. For example, 9Now and Watch NRL each have a dedicated app.

    We test and review VPN services in the context of legal recreational uses. For example:1. Accessing a service from another country (subject to the terms and conditions of that service).2. Protecting your online security and strengthening your online privacy when abroad.We do not support or condone the illegal or malicious use of VPN services. Consuming pirated content that is paid-for is neither endorsed nor approved by Future Publishing.

    ]]>     https://www.techradar.com/how-to-watch/sport/nrl-grand-final-2026-free-roosters-vs-knights CuiBSbfPymw3fx7ubdwLqj Sun, 04 Oct 2026 05:30:00 +0000 false false false

    The 2026 NRL Grand Final is serving up a David vs Goliath clash between the Roosters and the Knights at Accor Stadium. Whereas Sydney have reached eight previous Grand Finals and won four of them, including two in the past decade, for the past 15 years Newcastle fans have been more concerned with survival than the Provan-Summons Trophy. The Knights were wooden-spooners for the fifth time last season.

    Newcastle's one and only previous Grand Final appearance came in 2001, an upset win over the Eels. Produce the goods again on Sunday and they'll go down in NRL lore – the last team to go from last to first were the 1934 Western Suburbs. You wouldn't rule anything out. Justin Holbrook's men finished seventh in the ladder but have taken down minor premiers Penrith and second-place finishers New Zealand en route to the Grand Final. They were trailing the Panthers and down to 12 men last weekend due to Phoenix Crossland's awful tackle on Nathan Cleary, but pulled off a stunning comeback thanks to the combined excellence of Tyson Frizell, Sandon Smith and Kalyn Ponga.

    The Roosters, meanwhile, are very comfortable on this stage, and the NRL Grand Final is effectively a home match for Trent Robinson's men. They flew out of the traps to throw the Dolphins off their game last weekend, and if their forwards, led by Victor Radley, can capture that same intensity here it could be a long day for the Knights. On a personal note, Mark Nawaqanitawase is looking to sign off in style before jetting off to Japan to cross codes again.

    Read on as we explain how to watch Roosters vs Knights for free in the 2026 NRL Grand Final.

    Can you watch NRL Grand Final 2026 for free?

    Yes. The Roosters vs Knights is being shown on free-to-air Channel Nine in Australia.

    Stream the NRL Grand Final 2026 free on 9Now

    New to 9Now? Register for a free account to watch 9Now online.

    Don't forget. You will need an Australian postcode (e.g. 2026) to access the Nine Network's streaming service.

    Traveling outside Australia today? You can use a VPN to watch all the action free of charge as if you were back at home. NordVPN can unblock the free stream for you.View Deal

    How to watch NRL Grand Final 2026 from anywhere

    A VPN is handy piece of software that can make your device appear as if it's back in your home country, so you can unlock your usual service. The best VPN right now? We recommend NordVPN – it does everything and comes with up to 75% off.

    🟩 NordVPN – get the world's best VPN

    Not having a VPN is like leaving your front door wide open in a busy city – anyone can walk right in and take a peek.

    TechRadar regularly reviews all the biggest and best VPN providers and NordVPN is our #1 choice.

    ✅ Up to 75% off today
    ✅ 3 extra months free
    ✅ Unlocks 9Now

    Get NordVPN and stream NRL Grand Final 2026 live from anywhere.View Deal

    How to watch NRL Grand Final 2026 live streams in the USA

    US flag banner

    Rugby league fans in the US can watch NRL Grand Final 2026 on FS2 and Fox One.

    Fox One starts at $19.99/month or $99/year after a 3-day free trial.

    FS2 is carried by several OTT streaming platforms, such as YouTube TV and Fubo, each of which offers new customers a free trial.

    Sling TV's $19.99/month Select and $45.99/month Blue plans also include access to the Fox One app.

    The Roosters vs Knighst game is also being shown on dedicated streaming platform Watch NRL for $34.

    Outside of the US? Use a VPN whilst you're traveling away from home to unlock your stream.

    How to watch NRL Grand Final 2026 live streams in Australia

    Australian flag

    Free-to-air Channel Nine is showing NRL Grand Final 2026 in Australia, with live streaming available via 9Now.

    Just create an account using a valid Australia postcode (e.g. 2042).

    Not in Australia right now? You can use a VPN like NordVPN to watch Roosters vs Knights as if you were back home.

    How to watch NRL Grand Final 2026 live streams in New Zealand

    New Zealand flag

    In New Zealand, Sky Sport NZ is showing NRL Grand Final 2026 on the Sky Sport 1 channel.

    You can access Sky Sport through satellite TV or get a live stream, with the Sky Sport Now subscription service starting at NZ$29.99 per day or NZ$59.99 per month.

    Those outside of New Zealand can use NordVPN to gain access to their home streaming service.

    How to watch NRL Grand Final 2026 live streams in the UK

    uk flag banner

    The 2026 NRL Grand Final is available to watch on Sky Sports Mix and Sky Sports+ in the UK.

    Sky Sports packages start at £35/month, with £20/month pricing available to existing Sky customers. You can also tune in via a NOW Sports membership that carries the Sky Sports channels.

    The Roosters vs Knights clash is also available through Watch NRL for £28.

    Away from home? Unlock your NRL Grand Final stream with NordVPN.

    How to watch NRL Grand Final 2026 live streams in Canada

    canada

    The 2026 NRL Grand Final is available to watch on Sportsnet in Canada.

    If you don't have cable, the Sportsnet+ streaming service starts at CA$34.99/month or CA$269.99/year.

    The Roosters vs Knights game is also available to stream live on Watch NRL for CA$46.

    If you're out of Canada but still want to tune in, explore the VPN route set out above, which will help you access your accounts from anywhere.

    How to watch NRL Grand Final 2026 live streams in the rest of the world

    The 2026 NRL Grand Final is being shown on the dedicated Watch NRL streaming platform, which is available in all territories except for Australia, New Zealand, the Pacific Islands and other selected sanctioned jurisdictions (e.g. Russia, Belarus, Cuba, Iran, North Korea).

    Check the website for pricing in your region. Once subscribed, you can stream Watch NRL on phones, tablets, laptops, or the Apple TV app.

    Many countries also show games on TV and online through their domestic broadcasters.

    What is the NRL Grand Final 2026 start time?

    The scheduled NRL Grand Final 2026 kick-off time on Sunday, October 4 is 7.30pm AEDT local time in Sydney, which is 4.30am ET / 9.30am BST.

    What is the Roosters vs Knights head-to-head?

    The Roosters and Knights have contested 67 competitive games. Sydney won 42 of them, and Newcastle 22.

    This season, the head-to-head stands at 2-0 in the Roosters' favour.

    What are the NRL Grand Final 2026 teams?

    Roosters

    1. James Tedesco 2. Daniel Tupou 3. Billy Smith 4. Robert Toia 5. Mark Nawaqanitawase 6. Daly Cherry-Evans 7. Sam Walker 8. Naufahu Whyte 9. Reece Robson 10. Lindsay Collins 11. Salesi Foketi 12. Siua Wong 13. Victor Radley. Replacements: 14. Connor Watson 15. Angus Crichton 16. Nat Butcher 17. Spencer Leniu 18. Hugo Savala 19. Cody Ramsey Reserves: 20. Benaiah Ioelu 21. Tommy Talau 22. Egan Butcher

    Knights

    1. Kalyn Ponga 2. Dominic Young 3. Dane Gagai 4. Bradman Best 5. Greg Marzhew 6. Fletcher Sharpe 7. Sandon Smith 8. Tyson Frizell 9. Phoenix Crossland 10. Cody Hopwood 11. Jermaine McEwen 12. Francis Manuleleua 13. Mathew Croker. Replacements: 14. Harrison Graham 15. Lachlan Crouch 16. Pasami Saulo 17. Dylan Lucas 18. Fletcher Hunt 19. Thomas Cant Reserves: 20. Kyle McCarthy 21. Diesel Hagan 22. Elijah Leaumoana

    Can I watch NRL Grand Final 2026 on my mobile?

    Of course, most broadcasters have streaming services that you can access through mobile apps or via your phone's browser. For example, 9Now and Watch NRL each have a dedicated app.

    We test and review VPN services in the context of legal recreational uses. For example:1. Accessing a service from another country (subject to the terms and conditions of that service).2. Protecting your online security and strengthening your online privacy when abroad.We do not support or condone the illegal or malicious use of VPN services. Consuming pirated content that is paid-for is neither endorsed nor approved by Future Publishing.

    ]]>     <![CDATA[ Control Resonant composer says it's his duty to 'represent the story,' but sometimes offers it 'in a different light, as contradicting the on-screen events can be really delicious' ]]>
  • Control Resonant composer Petri Alanko says a musical score is "an emotional vessel"
  • He explains that it's his duty "to represent the story in the most beautiful light possible"
  • Alanko adds that the music "must be able to exist by itself, without the game and the story"

    • Control Resonant composer Petri Alanko thinks of a game's musical score as another way to tell the story, and it's his job to do that, even if he sometimes takes some creative liberties.

    "In my thoughts, a score is what one might call an emotional vessel - or a tray for the story," Alanko told TechRadar Gaming in an interview about Remedy Entertainment's latest action game. "My duty is to represent the story in the most beautiful light possible, to help drill the ideas and the vision into the heads of those who experience the events."

    The composer compared it to his band, where on stage it's his role to help the soloist "be the best version of themselves and showcase their talents in the most elegant way possible," saying that the "Same applies" to a video game.

    "What I do is a series of deep bows towards the story; I love the story; it’s an honour for me to make it even more approachable and beautiful," he said. "But… it must be able to exist by itself, without the game and the story. Otherwise, it’d be just a pointless collection of noodling. I carry the responsibility of respecting both the story creator and especially those who enjoy the story."

    Alanko went on to liken what he does to a customer service business, but added, "Trust me: I wouldn’t do anything just to please others; I do this to please myself. Simple as that."

    "If I don’t like what I do, nobody else will, and, just to be clear and precise, I do really enjoy what I do," he reiterated, "my self-confidence is in very good shape that way (laughs). If something moves me, there’s a good chance it might move someone else, too."

    While Alanko believes that it's a composer's job to translate the Remedy's story to the audience with his talent, he admitted: "I sometimes offer the story in a different light, as contradicting the on-screen events can be really delicious."

    "It’s a very human feature to make errors, to have a sudden twist of a knife in your side in the middle of the most heroic event, as if someone reminded you of your mortality and how different the outcome would be if this-or-that happened," Alanko added. "A bit like memento mori. It makes you humble; it makes you human."

    You can play Control Resonant now on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X, Series S, and PC.

    ]]>     https://www.techradar.com/gaming/control-resonant-composer-says-its-his-duty-to-represent-the-story-but-sometimes-offers-it-in-a-different-light-as-contradicting-the-on-screen-events-can-be-really-delicious B7HfCvmzp562j9ReaZRhWm Sun, 04 Oct 2026 02:00:00 +0000 false false false
    • Control Resonant composer Petri Alanko says a musical score is "an emotional vessel"
    • He explains that it's his duty "to represent the story in the most beautiful light possible"
    • Alanko adds that the music "must be able to exist by itself, without the game and the story"

    Control Resonant composer Petri Alanko thinks of a game's musical score as another way to tell the story, and it's his job to do that, even if he sometimes takes some creative liberties.

    "In my thoughts, a score is what one might call an emotional vessel - or a tray for the story," Alanko told TechRadar Gaming in an interview about Remedy Entertainment's latest action game. "My duty is to represent the story in the most beautiful light possible, to help drill the ideas and the vision into the heads of those who experience the events."

    The composer compared it to his band, where on stage it's his role to help the soloist "be the best version of themselves and showcase their talents in the most elegant way possible," saying that the "Same applies" to a video game.

    "What I do is a series of deep bows towards the story; I love the story; it’s an honour for me to make it even more approachable and beautiful," he said. "But… it must be able to exist by itself, without the game and the story. Otherwise, it’d be just a pointless collection of noodling. I carry the responsibility of respecting both the story creator and especially those who enjoy the story."

    Alanko went on to liken what he does to a customer service business, but added, "Trust me: I wouldn’t do anything just to please others; I do this to please myself. Simple as that."

    "If I don’t like what I do, nobody else will, and, just to be clear and precise, I do really enjoy what I do," he reiterated, "my self-confidence is in very good shape that way (laughs). If something moves me, there’s a good chance it might move someone else, too."

    While Alanko believes that it's a composer's job to translate the Remedy's story to the audience with his talent, he admitted: "I sometimes offer the story in a different light, as contradicting the on-screen events can be really delicious."

    "It’s a very human feature to make errors, to have a sudden twist of a knife in your side in the middle of the most heroic event, as if someone reminded you of your mortality and how different the outcome would be if this-or-that happened," Alanko added. "A bit like memento mori. It makes you humble; it makes you human."

    You can play Control Resonant now on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X, Series S, and PC.

    ]]>     <![CDATA[ There isn't a single Wi-Fi 8 device on the market, yet this Asus router is already outperforming everything you currently own — here's what you need to know ]]> Asus has beaten every other manufacturer to market with the ROG Rapture GT-BN98, the world's first commercially available Wi-Fi 8 gaming router.

    It's a bold flagship release for a wireless standard that isn't even finalized yet — and with zero Wi-Fi 8 client devices currently on sale, reviewers had to get creative just to test what it can actually do. I dug into three in-depth reviews to see whether it's worth buying now.

    What reviews say

    Build quality drew consistent praise. It's "extremely well constructed with very good attention to detail," said Blacktubi, while Guru3D leaned into the router's dramatic looks, joking that unboxing it feels like "a small alien spacecraft has crash-landed on the desk."

    YouTuber Landpet was blunt about the performance side, calling it flat-out "an absolute beast of a router."

    On paper, the GT-BN98's theoretical link rates are identical to its Wi-Fi 7 predecessor, the GT-BE98 — Blacktubi pointed out the headline numbers "are the exact same." But real-world range and throughput told a different story.

    Design

    Hiding it would be counterproductive, since the antennas require space to be positioned correctly and the chassis benefits from unobstructed airflow

    Guru 3D

    The chassis is large by any standard. It measures roughly 35cm by 35cm and weighs over 2kg. It needs "a proper, dedicated spot" rather than a small shelf, and ruling out wall mounting altogether given the size.

    The antennas dominate the look, adjustable around the perimeter and giving the router an almost insect-like silhouette when fully extended. The top panel mixes a metallic finish with geometric detailing and translucent panels, plus the expected Aura RGB lighting.

    Build quality feels solid throughout — no flex, clean panel fit, antenna arms that hold their position. Front-edge LEDs give a quick status read without opening the app.

    Thermally, this Asus router added a thicker aluminum top plate and an upgraded heatsink layer for passive cooling. Stress testing turned up no signs of throttling.

    Design & ports

    Inside is a 2.6GHz quad-core processor and 2GB of RAM, running a quad-band radio setup — 2.4GHz, dual 5GHz bands, and a single 6GHz band — for a combined theoretical throughput of 25,000Mbps.

    A North America-only "Pro" variant swaps the second 5GHz band for an extra 6GHz band on the UNII-8 spectrum, which isn't approved for use in most other regions.

    For wired gear, there are two 10GbE ports (one general-purpose, one dedicated gaming port), four 2.5GbE ports, and a single gigabit port, with up to six LAN ports active depending on configuration. USB 3.2 Gen1 and USB 2.0 round things out for network storage or 4G/5G backup internet.

    Performance

    This is officially the fastest wireless backhaul router that I've tested, which is insane

    Landpet

    Real-world speed testing — done entirely with Wi-Fi 7 client devices, since Wi-Fi 8 hardware doesn't exist yet — found wired and wireless backhaul holding up strongly even at 100 feet away

    Over a wired 10G connection, speeds matched his 5 Gbps ISP plan exactly in both directions. On Wi-Fi, internet speeds hit 4.1 Gbps down and 2 Gbps up.

    Local network testing — where speed isn't capped by the ISP — pushed even higher: 4.6 Gbps down and 4.2 Gbps up over wireless backhaul between two mesh units, with wired backhaul close behind at 4.5 Gbps down and 4.2 Gbps up.

    Range held up well too. At 20ft, speeds stayed around 4 Gbps down; at 50ft outdoors, 2.7 Gbps down; and even at 100ft, it still managed 1.92 Gbps down, though upload dropped sharply to 718 Mbps.

    A more controlled comparison, pairing two GT-BN98 units against two GT-BE98 units, found "significantly higher" throughput at long range with the newer hardware.

    The more surprising finding: those gains aren't limited to future Wi-Fi 8 gear. Testing with an existing Wi-Fi 7 MacBook still measured "more than 10% higher average throughput" on the GT-BN98 versus the older Wi-Fi router — evidence that upgraded radio components benefit today's devices too, even without any Wi-Fi 8 features actually switched on.

    Firmware

    The ASUSWRT 6.0 was singled out as a real step up, with the interface "noticeably more modern and much more responsive" than Asus's decade-old firmware.

    The headline addition is the new Adaptive QoE engine, which "smartly allocates network resources to balance gaming, streaming, and daily tasks," replacing the older Adaptive QoS system.

    Security also got an upgrade via the revamped AiProtection suite, which was called "genuinely impressive" for including network-level ad and tracker blocking at no extra cost.

    The new Wi-Fi Insight tool also correctly flagged interference from a Zigbee smart home devices on the 2.4GHz band, a decent addition which impressively “works as intended”.

    Price

    Pricing is still rolling out region by region ahead of the router's wider October 2026 launch.

    The flagship GT-BN98 Pro is currently the only model on sale, listed on ASUS's Canadian eStore at CA$1,299.99.

    A US launch price of around $899 has been floated by early previews but isn't yet official.

    The standard GT-BN98 (non-Pro) has also been priced at €960 in Europe, though North American pricing for that specific model hasn't been confirmed yet.

    Given the router is shipping ahead of Wi-Fi 8's official IEEE finalization — not expected until 2028 — buyers are paying an early-adopter premium on top of already-flagship router pricing.

    Who should buy it

    This is a router for enthusiasts buying ahead of the curve, not something you need for Wi-Fi 8 today — compatible client devices aren't expected until 2027 at the earliest.

    Still, the benefits aren't purely theoretical: better range, backhaul speed, and firmware improvements apply right now, even to existing Wi-Fi 7 devices.

    Verdict

    The good

    - Meaningfully better range and throughput, even on older Wi-Fi 7 devices

    - Premium build quality with no thermal throttling under load

    - Adaptive QoE and free-included ad/tracker blocking are genuine upgrades

    The bad

    - No Wi-Fi 8 client devices exist yet to fully prove the standard

    - Large footprint requires dedicated desk space

    - High price tag

    The verdict

    Worth it if you want the best router hardware available today and don't mind future-proofing ahead of the Wi-Fi 8 ecosystem. Hold off if you're not running multi-gig internet or don't need flagship-level range right now.

    ASUS ROG Rapture GT-BN98 specs

    Spec

    Detail

    Wi-Fi standard

    Wi-Fi 8 (802.11bn)

    Bands

    Quad-band: 2.4GHz, dual 5GHz, single 6GHz

    Max theoretical throughput

    25,000 Mbps combined

    Channel bandwidth

    Up to 320MHz, 4096-QAM

    Processor

    2.6GHz quad-core

    Memory

    2GB RAM

    Wired ports

    2x 10GbE, 4x 2.5GbE, 1x Gigabit

    USB

    1x USB 3.2 Gen1, 1x USB 2.0

    Backup connectivity

    4G/5G cellular backup WAN

    Key software

    Adaptive QoE, WiFi Insight, AiMesh, Guest Network Pro, AiProtection, GTNet game acceleration

    Guest networks

    Up to 5 SSIDs via Guest Network Pro

    Dimensions/weight

    ~35cm x 35cm, 2kg+

    Google logo on a black background next to text reading 'Click to follow TechRadar'

    ]]>     https://www.techradar.com/pro/there-isnt-a-single-wi-fi-8-device-on-the-market-yet-this-router-is-already-outperforming-everything-you-currently-own-heres-what-you-need-to-know 6tGRwxDvV2c8tVgTrTZh9M Sun, 04 Oct 2026 00:10:00 +0000 false false false

    Asus has beaten every other manufacturer to market with the ROG Rapture GT-BN98, the world's first commercially available Wi-Fi 8 gaming router.

    It's a bold flagship release for a wireless standard that isn't even finalized yet — and with zero Wi-Fi 8 client devices currently on sale, reviewers had to get creative just to test what it can actually do. I dug into three in-depth reviews to see whether it's worth buying now.

    What reviews say

    Build quality drew consistent praise. It's "extremely well constructed with very good attention to detail," said Blacktubi, while Guru3D leaned into the router's dramatic looks, joking that unboxing it feels like "a small alien spacecraft has crash-landed on the desk."

    YouTuber Landpet was blunt about the performance side, calling it flat-out "an absolute beast of a router."

    On paper, the GT-BN98's theoretical link rates are identical to its Wi-Fi 7 predecessor, the GT-BE98 — Blacktubi pointed out the headline numbers "are the exact same." But real-world range and throughput told a different story.

    Design

    Hiding it would be counterproductive, since the antennas require space to be positioned correctly and the chassis benefits from unobstructed airflow

    Guru 3D

    The chassis is large by any standard. It measures roughly 35cm by 35cm and weighs over 2kg. It needs "a proper, dedicated spot" rather than a small shelf, and ruling out wall mounting altogether given the size.

    The antennas dominate the look, adjustable around the perimeter and giving the router an almost insect-like silhouette when fully extended. The top panel mixes a metallic finish with geometric detailing and translucent panels, plus the expected Aura RGB lighting.

    Build quality feels solid throughout — no flex, clean panel fit, antenna arms that hold their position. Front-edge LEDs give a quick status read without opening the app.

    Thermally, this Asus router added a thicker aluminum top plate and an upgraded heatsink layer for passive cooling. Stress testing turned up no signs of throttling.

    Design & ports

    Inside is a 2.6GHz quad-core processor and 2GB of RAM, running a quad-band radio setup — 2.4GHz, dual 5GHz bands, and a single 6GHz band — for a combined theoretical throughput of 25,000Mbps.

    A North America-only "Pro" variant swaps the second 5GHz band for an extra 6GHz band on the UNII-8 spectrum, which isn't approved for use in most other regions.

    For wired gear, there are two 10GbE ports (one general-purpose, one dedicated gaming port), four 2.5GbE ports, and a single gigabit port, with up to six LAN ports active depending on configuration. USB 3.2 Gen1 and USB 2.0 round things out for network storage or 4G/5G backup internet.

    Performance

    This is officially the fastest wireless backhaul router that I've tested, which is insane

    Landpet

    Real-world speed testing — done entirely with Wi-Fi 7 client devices, since Wi-Fi 8 hardware doesn't exist yet — found wired and wireless backhaul holding up strongly even at 100 feet away

    Over a wired 10G connection, speeds matched his 5 Gbps ISP plan exactly in both directions. On Wi-Fi, internet speeds hit 4.1 Gbps down and 2 Gbps up.

    Local network testing — where speed isn't capped by the ISP — pushed even higher: 4.6 Gbps down and 4.2 Gbps up over wireless backhaul between two mesh units, with wired backhaul close behind at 4.5 Gbps down and 4.2 Gbps up.

    Range held up well too. At 20ft, speeds stayed around 4 Gbps down; at 50ft outdoors, 2.7 Gbps down; and even at 100ft, it still managed 1.92 Gbps down, though upload dropped sharply to 718 Mbps.

    A more controlled comparison, pairing two GT-BN98 units against two GT-BE98 units, found "significantly higher" throughput at long range with the newer hardware.

    The more surprising finding: those gains aren't limited to future Wi-Fi 8 gear. Testing with an existing Wi-Fi 7 MacBook still measured "more than 10% higher average throughput" on the GT-BN98 versus the older Wi-Fi router — evidence that upgraded radio components benefit today's devices too, even without any Wi-Fi 8 features actually switched on.

    Firmware

    The ASUSWRT 6.0 was singled out as a real step up, with the interface "noticeably more modern and much more responsive" than Asus's decade-old firmware.

    The headline addition is the new Adaptive QoE engine, which "smartly allocates network resources to balance gaming, streaming, and daily tasks," replacing the older Adaptive QoS system.

    Security also got an upgrade via the revamped AiProtection suite, which was called "genuinely impressive" for including network-level ad and tracker blocking at no extra cost.

    The new Wi-Fi Insight tool also correctly flagged interference from a Zigbee smart home devices on the 2.4GHz band, a decent addition which impressively “works as intended”.

    Price

    Pricing is still rolling out region by region ahead of the router's wider October 2026 launch.

    The flagship GT-BN98 Pro is currently the only model on sale, listed on ASUS's Canadian eStore at CA$1,299.99.

    A US launch price of around $899 has been floated by early previews but isn't yet official.

    The standard GT-BN98 (non-Pro) has also been priced at €960 in Europe, though North American pricing for that specific model hasn't been confirmed yet.

    Given the router is shipping ahead of Wi-Fi 8's official IEEE finalization — not expected until 2028 — buyers are paying an early-adopter premium on top of already-flagship router pricing.

    Who should buy it

    This is a router for enthusiasts buying ahead of the curve, not something you need for Wi-Fi 8 today — compatible client devices aren't expected until 2027 at the earliest.

    Still, the benefits aren't purely theoretical: better range, backhaul speed, and firmware improvements apply right now, even to existing Wi-Fi 7 devices.

    Verdict

    The good

    - Meaningfully better range and throughput, even on older Wi-Fi 7 devices

    - Premium build quality with no thermal throttling under load

    - Adaptive QoE and free-included ad/tracker blocking are genuine upgrades

    The bad

    - No Wi-Fi 8 client devices exist yet to fully prove the standard

    - Large footprint requires dedicated desk space

    - High price tag

    The verdict

    Worth it if you want the best router hardware available today and don't mind future-proofing ahead of the Wi-Fi 8 ecosystem. Hold off if you're not running multi-gig internet or don't need flagship-level range right now.

    ASUS ROG Rapture GT-BN98 specs

    Spec

    Detail

    Wi-Fi standard

    Wi-Fi 8 (802.11bn)

    Bands

    Quad-band: 2.4GHz, dual 5GHz, single 6GHz

    Max theoretical throughput

    25,000 Mbps combined

    Channel bandwidth

    Up to 320MHz, 4096-QAM

    Processor

    2.6GHz quad-core

    Memory

    2GB RAM

    Wired ports

    2x 10GbE, 4x 2.5GbE, 1x Gigabit

    USB

    1x USB 3.2 Gen1, 1x USB 2.0

    Backup connectivity

    4G/5G cellular backup WAN

    Key software

    Adaptive QoE, WiFi Insight, AiMesh, Guest Network Pro, AiProtection, GTNet game acceleration

    Guest networks

    Up to 5 SSIDs via Guest Network Pro

    Dimensions/weight

    ~35cm x 35cm, 2kg+

    Google logo on a black background next to text reading 'Click to follow TechRadar'

    ]]>     <![CDATA[ Quordle hints and answers for Sunday, October 4 (game #1714) ]]>
    Looking for a different day?

    A new Quordle puzzle appears at midnight each day for your time zone – which means that some people are always playing 'today's game' while others are playing 'yesterday's'. If you're looking for Saturday's puzzle instead then click here: Quordle hints and answers for Saturday, October 3 (game #1713).

    Quordle was one of the original Wordle alternatives and is still going strong now more than 1,500 games later. It offers a genuine challenge, though, so read on if you need some Quordle hints today — or scroll down further for the answers.

    Enjoy playing word games? You can also check out my NYT Connections today and NYT Strands today pages for hints and answers for those puzzles, while Marc's Wordle today column covers the original viral word game.

    SPOILER WARNING: Information about Quordle today is below, so don't read on if you don't want to know the answers.

    Quordle today (game #1714) — hint #1 — Vowels

    How many different vowels are in Quordle today?

    • The number of different vowels in Quordle today is 3*.

    * Note that by vowel we mean the five standard vowels (A, E, I, O, U), not Y (which is sometimes counted as a vowel too).

    Quordle today (game #1714) — hint #2 — repeated letters

    Do any of today's Quordle answers contain repeated letters?

    • The number of Quordle answers containing a repeated letter today is 1.

    Quordle today (game #1714) — hint #3 — uncommon letters

    Do the letters Q, Z, X or J appear in Quordle today?

    • No. None of Q, Z, X or J appear among today's Quordle answers.

    Quordle today (game #1714) — hint #4 — starting letters (1)

    Do any of today's Quordle puzzles start with the same letter?

    • The number of today's Quordle answers starting with the same letter is 0.

    If you just want to know the answers at this stage, simply scroll down. If you're not ready yet then here's one more clue to make things a lot easier:

    Quordle today (game #1714) — hint #5 — starting letters (2)

    What letters do today's Quordle answers start with?

    • I

    • R

    • T

    • A

    Right, the answers are below, so DO NOT SCROLL ANY FURTHER IF YOU DON'T WANT TO SEE THEM.

    Quordle today (game #1714) — the answers

    Quordle answers for game 1714 on a yellow background

    (Image credit: Merriam-Webster)

    The answers to today's Quordle, game #1714, are…

    • INFER
    • RAINY
    • THING
    • ARENA

    A tricky one today, with multiple possibilities to navigate.

    ARENA, though, was just hard to get because of the mental block of thinking of words ending in vowels. However, with the N in the fourth position and few other options I knew it had to end with N-A.

    Daily Sequence today (game #1714) — the answers

    Quordle Daily Sequence answers for game 1714 on a yellow background

    (Image credit: Merriam-Webster)

    The answers to today's Quordle Daily Sequence, game #1714, are…

    • MUSIC
    • FLUTE
    • BRAWN
    • VIVID

    Quordle answers: The past 20

    • Quordle #1713, Saturday, 3 October: CHORE, FLYER, STICK, PURSE
    • Quordle #1712, Friday, 2 October: IVORY, SADLY, ANGEL, LLAMA
    • Quordle #1711, Thursday, 1 October: NAVEL, SHEER, BIRTH, TACKY
    • Quordle #1710, Wednesday, 30 September: CHOKE, BATCH, MOSSY, EAGER
    • Quordle #1709, Tuesday, 29 September: BILGE, MEDAL, LODGE, PORCH
    • Quordle #1708, Monday, 28 September: BRUNT, TORSO, STONE, HEATH
    • Quordle #1707, Sunday, 27 September: VALET, CHEST, VIGIL, PUREE
    • Quordle #1706, Saturday, 26 September: SNORT, BIBLE, LAPSE, CRANE
    • Quordle #1705, Friday, 25 September: SWEAR, FLOOD, GUPPY, GROAN
    • Quordle #1704, Thursday, 24 September: TOPIC, METRO, SCALP, FREED
    • Quordle #1703, Wednesday, 23 September: SHEET, BLAND, JOIST, GUAVA
    • Quordle #1702, Tuesday, 22 September: COMFY, LOBBY, DRESS, PANEL
    • Quordle #1701, Monday, 21 September: WAXEN, HIPPO, PETAL, LEASH
    • Quordle #1700, Sunday, 20 September: DERBY, LIMBO, GAWKY, REIGN
    • Quordle #1699, Saturday, 19 September: SCOPE, HEIST, PULSE, CHAMP
    • Quordle #1698, Friday, 18 September: MUCUS, MIRTH, APPLE, TILDE
    • Quordle #1697, Thursday, 17 September: CRIER, CHIRP, NEIGH, FREER
    • Quordle #1696, Wednesday, 16 September: SPEAR, PRICE, BLUNT, FISHY
    • Quordle #1695, Tuesday, 15 September: SHUSH, LITHE, DELTA, BUGLE
    • Quordle #1694, Monday, 14 September: ZEBRA, LEGAL, RATIO, TROLL
    ]]>     https://www.techradar.com/computing/websites-apps/quordle-today-answers-clues-4-october-2026 LjPLjWcpUGnQYrkTgpvYzA Sat, 03 Oct 2026 23:00:00 +0000 false false false
    Looking for a different day?

    A new Quordle puzzle appears at midnight each day for your time zone – which means that some people are always playing 'today's game' while others are playing 'yesterday's'. If you're looking for Saturday's puzzle instead then click here: Quordle hints and answers for Saturday, October 3 (game #1713).

    Quordle was one of the original Wordle alternatives and is still going strong now more than 1,500 games later. It offers a genuine challenge, though, so read on if you need some Quordle hints today — or scroll down further for the answers.

    Enjoy playing word games? You can also check out my NYT Connections today and NYT Strands today pages for hints and answers for those puzzles, while Marc's Wordle today column covers the original viral word game.

    SPOILER WARNING: Information about Quordle today is below, so don't read on if you don't want to know the answers.

    Quordle today (game #1714) — hint #1 — Vowels

    How many different vowels are in Quordle today?

    • The number of different vowels in Quordle today is 3*.

    * Note that by vowel we mean the five standard vowels (A, E, I, O, U), not Y (which is sometimes counted as a vowel too).

    Quordle today (game #1714) — hint #2 — repeated letters

    Do any of today's Quordle answers contain repeated letters?

    • The number of Quordle answers containing a repeated letter today is 1.

    Quordle today (game #1714) — hint #3 — uncommon letters

    Do the letters Q, Z, X or J appear in Quordle today?

    • No. None of Q, Z, X or J appear among today's Quordle answers.

    Quordle today (game #1714) — hint #4 — starting letters (1)

    Do any of today's Quordle puzzles start with the same letter?

    • The number of today's Quordle answers starting with the same letter is 0.

    If you just want to know the answers at this stage, simply scroll down. If you're not ready yet then here's one more clue to make things a lot easier:

    Quordle today (game #1714) — hint #5 — starting letters (2)

    What letters do today's Quordle answers start with?

    • I

    • R

    • T

    • A

    Right, the answers are below, so DO NOT SCROLL ANY FURTHER IF YOU DON'T WANT TO SEE THEM.

    Quordle today (game #1714) — the answers

    Quordle answers for game 1714 on a yellow background

    (Image credit: Merriam-Webster)

    The answers to today's Quordle, game #1714, are…

    • INFER
    • RAINY
    • THING
    • ARENA

    A tricky one today, with multiple possibilities to navigate.

    ARENA, though, was just hard to get because of the mental block of thinking of words ending in vowels. However, with the N in the fourth position and few other options I knew it had to end with N-A.

    Daily Sequence today (game #1714) — the answers

    Quordle Daily Sequence answers for game 1714 on a yellow background

    (Image credit: Merriam-Webster)

    The answers to today's Quordle Daily Sequence, game #1714, are…

    • MUSIC
    • FLUTE
    • BRAWN
    • VIVID

    Quordle answers: The past 20

    • Quordle #1713, Saturday, 3 October: CHORE, FLYER, STICK, PURSE
    • Quordle #1712, Friday, 2 October: IVORY, SADLY, ANGEL, LLAMA
    • Quordle #1711, Thursday, 1 October: NAVEL, SHEER, BIRTH, TACKY
    • Quordle #1710, Wednesday, 30 September: CHOKE, BATCH, MOSSY, EAGER
    • Quordle #1709, Tuesday, 29 September: BILGE, MEDAL, LODGE, PORCH
    • Quordle #1708, Monday, 28 September: BRUNT, TORSO, STONE, HEATH
    • Quordle #1707, Sunday, 27 September: VALET, CHEST, VIGIL, PUREE
    • Quordle #1706, Saturday, 26 September: SNORT, BIBLE, LAPSE, CRANE
    • Quordle #1705, Friday, 25 September: SWEAR, FLOOD, GUPPY, GROAN
    • Quordle #1704, Thursday, 24 September: TOPIC, METRO, SCALP, FREED
    • Quordle #1703, Wednesday, 23 September: SHEET, BLAND, JOIST, GUAVA
    • Quordle #1702, Tuesday, 22 September: COMFY, LOBBY, DRESS, PANEL
    • Quordle #1701, Monday, 21 September: WAXEN, HIPPO, PETAL, LEASH
    • Quordle #1700, Sunday, 20 September: DERBY, LIMBO, GAWKY, REIGN
    • Quordle #1699, Saturday, 19 September: SCOPE, HEIST, PULSE, CHAMP
    • Quordle #1698, Friday, 18 September: MUCUS, MIRTH, APPLE, TILDE
    • Quordle #1697, Thursday, 17 September: CRIER, CHIRP, NEIGH, FREER
    • Quordle #1696, Wednesday, 16 September: SPEAR, PRICE, BLUNT, FISHY
    • Quordle #1695, Tuesday, 15 September: SHUSH, LITHE, DELTA, BUGLE
    • Quordle #1694, Monday, 14 September: ZEBRA, LEGAL, RATIO, TROLL
    ]]>     <![CDATA[ NYT Connections hints and answers for Sunday, October 4 (game #1211) ]]>
    Looking for a different day?

    A new NYT Connections puzzle appears at midnight each day for your time zone – which means that some people are always playing 'today's game' while others are playing 'yesterday's'. If you're looking for Saturday's puzzle instead then click here: NYT Connections hints and answers for Saturday, October 3 (game #1210).

    Good morning! Let's play Connections, the NYT's clever word game that challenges you to group answers in various categories. It can be tough, so read on if you need Connections hints.

    What should you do once you've finished? Why, play some more word games of course. I've also got daily Strands hints and answers and Quordle hints and answers articles if you need help for those too, while Marc's Wordle today page covers the original viral word game.

    SPOILER WARNING: Information about NYT Connections today is below, so don't read on if you don't want to know the answers.

    NYT Connections today (game #1211) - today's words

    NYT Connections hints for game 1211 on a purple background

    (Image credit: New York Times)

    Today's NYT Connections words are…

    • WIG
    • FILM
    • AUCTION
    • TABLE
    • PADDLE
    • COLLAR
    • GAVEL
    • LOT
    • BUNCH
    • BALL
    • PARTNER
    • NET
    • ROBE
    • HEAP
    • TREATMENT
    • STACK

    NYT Connections today (game #1211) - hint #1 - group hints

    What are some clues for today's NYT Connections groups?

    • YELLOW: A pile of things
    • GREEN: Ping pong equipment
    • BLUE: All rise
    • PURPLE: Begin with a noiseless word

    Need more clues?

    We're firmly in spoiler territory now, but read on if you want to know what the four theme answers are for today's NYT Connections puzzles…

    NYT Connections today (game #1211) - hint #2 - group answers

    What are the answers for today's NYT Connections groups?

    • YELLOW: CONSIDERABLE AMOUNT
    • GREEN: TABLE TENNIS NEEDS
    • BLUE: PARTS OF A JUDGE COSTUME
    • PURPLE: SILENT ____

    Right, the answers are below, so DO NOT SCROLL ANY FURTHER IF YOU DON'T WANT TO SEE THEM.

    NYT Connections today (game #1211) - the answers

    NYT Connections answers for game 1211 on a purple background

    (Image credit: New York Times)

    The answers to today's Connections, game #1211, are…

    • YELLOW: CONSIDERABLE AMOUNT: BUNCH, HEAP, LOT, STACK
    • GREEN: TABLE TENNIS NEEDS: BALL, NET, PADDLE, TABLE
    • BLUE: PARTS OF A JUDGE COSTUME: COLLAR, GAVEL, ROBE, WIG
    • PURPLE: SILENT ____: AUCTION, FILM, PARTNER, TREATMENT
    • My rating: Easy
    • My score: Perfect

    In the UK we call a PADDLE a bat, a cultural difference that slowed me down a little and meant that I began with a group I was more certain about.

    The four tiles of PARTS OF A JUDGE COSTUME seem very odd to me — that one of the most important and respected roles in society involves people wearing a WIG and using something called a GAVEL. Frankly, it’d make just as much sense if you had to wear a wig and GOWN to play table tennis.

    The real annoyance of today was missing a very gettable purple group. Kudos, if you spotted it — I got too hung up on thinking AUCTION was a red herring because it matched with LOT and ended up ignoring other possible connections.

    Yesterday's NYT Connections answers (Saturday, October 3, 2026, game #1210)

    • YELLOW: STARTING WITH TERMS FOR "TOILET": CAN OPENER, HEAD WAITER, JOHN DENVER, W.C. FIELDS
    • GREEN: ENDING IN MUSICALS: ELBOW GREASE, FAT CATS, LINDA HAMILTON, SOMETHING WICKED
    • BLUE: STARTING WITH U.S. MUSEUMS: BROAD BEAN, GETTY IMAGES, MET HALFWAY, WHITNEY HOUSTON
    • PURPLE: ENDING IN FANTASY CREATURES: DIET SPRITE, MERV GRIFFIN, NY GIANT, RIVER PHOENIX

    What is NYT Connections?

    NYT Connections is one of several increasingly popular word games made by the New York Times. It challenges you to find groups of four items that share something in common, and each group has a different difficulty level: green is easy, yellow a little harder, blue often quite tough and purple usually very difficult.

    On the plus side, you don't technically need to solve the final one, as you'll be able to answer that one by a process of elimination. What's more, you can make up to four mistakes, which gives you a little bit of breathing room.

    It's a little more involved than something like Wordle, however, and there are plenty of opportunities for the game to trip you up with tricks. For instance, watch out for homophones and other word games that could disguise the answers.

    It's playable for free via the NYT Games site on desktop or mobile.

    ]]>     https://www.techradar.com/gaming/nyt-connections-today-answers-hints-4-october-2026 oXhNjaGjcAgDxMEpRHNVn5 Sat, 03 Oct 2026 23:00:00 +0000 false false false
    Looking for a different day?

    A new NYT Connections puzzle appears at midnight each day for your time zone – which means that some people are always playing 'today's game' while others are playing 'yesterday's'. If you're looking for Saturday's puzzle instead then click here: NYT Connections hints and answers for Saturday, October 3 (game #1210).

    Good morning! Let's play Connections, the NYT's clever word game that challenges you to group answers in various categories. It can be tough, so read on if you need Connections hints.

    What should you do once you've finished? Why, play some more word games of course. I've also got daily Strands hints and answers and Quordle hints and answers articles if you need help for those too, while Marc's Wordle today page covers the original viral word game.

    SPOILER WARNING: Information about NYT Connections today is below, so don't read on if you don't want to know the answers.

    NYT Connections today (game #1211) - today's words

    NYT Connections hints for game 1211 on a purple background

    (Image credit: New York Times)

    Today's NYT Connections words are…

    • WIG
    • FILM
    • AUCTION
    • TABLE
    • PADDLE
    • COLLAR
    • GAVEL
    • LOT
    • BUNCH
    • BALL
    • PARTNER
    • NET
    • ROBE
    • HEAP
    • TREATMENT
    • STACK

    NYT Connections today (game #1211) - hint #1 - group hints

    What are some clues for today's NYT Connections groups?

    • YELLOW: A pile of things
    • GREEN: Ping pong equipment
    • BLUE: All rise
    • PURPLE: Begin with a noiseless word

    Need more clues?

    We're firmly in spoiler territory now, but read on if you want to know what the four theme answers are for today's NYT Connections puzzles…

    NYT Connections today (game #1211) - hint #2 - group answers

    What are the answers for today's NYT Connections groups?

    • YELLOW: CONSIDERABLE AMOUNT
    • GREEN: TABLE TENNIS NEEDS
    • BLUE: PARTS OF A JUDGE COSTUME
    • PURPLE: SILENT ____

    Right, the answers are below, so DO NOT SCROLL ANY FURTHER IF YOU DON'T WANT TO SEE THEM.

    NYT Connections today (game #1211) - the answers

    NYT Connections answers for game 1211 on a purple background

    (Image credit: New York Times)

    The answers to today's Connections, game #1211, are…

    • YELLOW: CONSIDERABLE AMOUNT: BUNCH, HEAP, LOT, STACK
    • GREEN: TABLE TENNIS NEEDS: BALL, NET, PADDLE, TABLE
    • BLUE: PARTS OF A JUDGE COSTUME: COLLAR, GAVEL, ROBE, WIG
    • PURPLE: SILENT ____: AUCTION, FILM, PARTNER, TREATMENT
    • My rating: Easy
    • My score: Perfect

    In the UK we call a PADDLE a bat, a cultural difference that slowed me down a little and meant that I began with a group I was more certain about.

    The four tiles of PARTS OF A JUDGE COSTUME seem very odd to me — that one of the most important and respected roles in society involves people wearing a WIG and using something called a GAVEL. Frankly, it’d make just as much sense if you had to wear a wig and GOWN to play table tennis.

    The real annoyance of today was missing a very gettable purple group. Kudos, if you spotted it — I got too hung up on thinking AUCTION was a red herring because it matched with LOT and ended up ignoring other possible connections.

    Yesterday's NYT Connections answers (Saturday, October 3, 2026, game #1210)

    • YELLOW: STARTING WITH TERMS FOR "TOILET": CAN OPENER, HEAD WAITER, JOHN DENVER, W.C. FIELDS
    • GREEN: ENDING IN MUSICALS: ELBOW GREASE, FAT CATS, LINDA HAMILTON, SOMETHING WICKED
    • BLUE: STARTING WITH U.S. MUSEUMS: BROAD BEAN, GETTY IMAGES, MET HALFWAY, WHITNEY HOUSTON
    • PURPLE: ENDING IN FANTASY CREATURES: DIET SPRITE, MERV GRIFFIN, NY GIANT, RIVER PHOENIX

    What is NYT Connections?

    NYT Connections is one of several increasingly popular word games made by the New York Times. It challenges you to find groups of four items that share something in common, and each group has a different difficulty level: green is easy, yellow a little harder, blue often quite tough and purple usually very difficult.

    On the plus side, you don't technically need to solve the final one, as you'll be able to answer that one by a process of elimination. What's more, you can make up to four mistakes, which gives you a little bit of breathing room.

    It's a little more involved than something like Wordle, however, and there are plenty of opportunities for the game to trip you up with tricks. For instance, watch out for homophones and other word games that could disguise the answers.

    It's playable for free via the NYT Games site on desktop or mobile.

    ]]>     <![CDATA[ NYT Strands hints and answers for Sunday, October 4 (game #945) ]]>
    Looking for a different day?

    A new NYT Strands puzzle appears at midnight each day for your time zone – which means that some people are always playing 'today's game' while others are playing 'yesterday's'. If you're looking for Saturday's puzzle instead then click here: NYT Strands hints and answers for Saturday, October 3 (game #944).

    Strands is the NYT's latest word game after the likes of Wordle, Spelling Bee and Connections – and it's great fun. It can be difficult, though, so read on for my Strands hints.

    Want more word-based fun? Then check out my NYT Connections today and Quordle today pages for hints and answers for those games, and Marc's Wordle today page for the original viral word game.

    SPOILER WARNING: Information about NYT Strands today is below, so don't read on if you don't want to know the answers.

    NYT Strands today (game #945) - hint #1 - today's theme

    What is the theme of today's NYT Strands?

    • Today's NYT Strands theme is… Grab your tokens

    NYT Strands today (game #945) - hint #2 - clue words

    Play any of these words to unlock the in-game hints system.

    • STAG
    • SEAT
    • GATES
    • RIDE
    • GORE
    • DECADE
    • SONG
    • BELT

    NYT Strands today (game #945) - hint #3 - spangram letters

    How many letters are in today's spangram?

    • Spangram has 11 letters

    NYT Strands today (game #945) - hint #4 - spangram position

    What are two sides of the board that today's spangram touches?

    • First side: bottom, 1st column

    • Last side: top, 6th column

    Right, the answers are below, so DO NOT SCROLL ANY FURTHER IF YOU DON'T WANT TO SEE THEM.

    NYT Strands today (game #945) - the answers

    NYT Strands answers for game 945 on a blue background

    (Image credit: New York Times)

    The answers to today's Strands, game #945, are…

    • PONG
    • FROGGER
    • ASTEROIDS
    • CENTIPEDE
    • SCRAMBLE
    • SPANGRAM FIRST: ARCADEGAMES
    • My rating: Easy
    • My score: Perfect

    When I saw today’s theme “grab your tokens” I immediately thought of video games and went in search of the word “arcade”. And thus ARCADEGAMES became my 107th Spangram First.

    Arcades trigger plenty of memories for me, but mainly how laughably awful I was at every single game I tried — everyone else I knew was amazing at them and would stay on for ages, whereas I’d lose my life in seconds even on simple games such as Pac-Man. I didn’t mind, though; I was an enthusiastic spectator.

    Having said all that, despite getting PONG, FROGGER and ASTEROIDS in a quick blast, the lesser-played CENTIPEDE and SCRAMBLE were harder to spot.

    Yesterday's NYT Strands answers (Saturday, October 3, game #944)

    • MIRAGE
    • ILLUSION
    • CHIMERA
    • SPECTER
    • PHANTASM
    • SPANGRAM:WILLOTHEWISP

    What is NYT Strands?

    Strands is the NYT's not-so-new-any-more word game, following Wordle and Connections. It's now a fully fledged member of the NYT's games stable that has been running for a year and which can be played on the NYT Games site on desktop or mobile.

    I've got a full guide to how to play NYT Strands, complete with tips for solving it, so check that out if you're struggling to beat it each day.

    ]]>     https://www.techradar.com/computing/websites-apps/nyt-strands-today-answers-hints-4-october-2026 v9BPP8ZSnBHrecqY5qejK8 Sat, 03 Oct 2026 23:00:00 +0000 false false false
    Looking for a different day?

    A new NYT Strands puzzle appears at midnight each day for your time zone – which means that some people are always playing 'today's game' while others are playing 'yesterday's'. If you're looking for Saturday's puzzle instead then click here: NYT Strands hints and answers for Saturday, October 3 (game #944).

    Strands is the NYT's latest word game after the likes of Wordle, Spelling Bee and Connections – and it's great fun. It can be difficult, though, so read on for my Strands hints.

    Want more word-based fun? Then check out my NYT Connections today and Quordle today pages for hints and answers for those games, and Marc's Wordle today page for the original viral word game.

    SPOILER WARNING: Information about NYT Strands today is below, so don't read on if you don't want to know the answers.

    NYT Strands today (game #945) - hint #1 - today's theme

    What is the theme of today's NYT Strands?

    • Today's NYT Strands theme is… Grab your tokens

    NYT Strands today (game #945) - hint #2 - clue words

    Play any of these words to unlock the in-game hints system.

    • STAG
    • SEAT
    • GATES
    • RIDE
    • GORE
    • DECADE
    • SONG
    • BELT

    NYT Strands today (game #945) - hint #3 - spangram letters

    How many letters are in today's spangram?

    • Spangram has 11 letters

    NYT Strands today (game #945) - hint #4 - spangram position

    What are two sides of the board that today's spangram touches?

    • First side: bottom, 1st column

    • Last side: top, 6th column

    Right, the answers are below, so DO NOT SCROLL ANY FURTHER IF YOU DON'T WANT TO SEE THEM.

    NYT Strands today (game #945) - the answers

    NYT Strands answers for game 945 on a blue background

    (Image credit: New York Times)

    The answers to today's Strands, game #945, are…

    • PONG
    • FROGGER
    • ASTEROIDS
    • CENTIPEDE
    • SCRAMBLE
    • SPANGRAM FIRST: ARCADEGAMES
    • My rating: Easy
    • My score: Perfect

    When I saw today’s theme “grab your tokens” I immediately thought of video games and went in search of the word “arcade”. And thus ARCADEGAMES became my 107th Spangram First.

    Arcades trigger plenty of memories for me, but mainly how laughably awful I was at every single game I tried — everyone else I knew was amazing at them and would stay on for ages, whereas I’d lose my life in seconds even on simple games such as Pac-Man. I didn’t mind, though; I was an enthusiastic spectator.

    Having said all that, despite getting PONG, FROGGER and ASTEROIDS in a quick blast, the lesser-played CENTIPEDE and SCRAMBLE were harder to spot.

    Yesterday's NYT Strands answers (Saturday, October 3, game #944)

    • MIRAGE
    • ILLUSION
    • CHIMERA
    • SPECTER
    • PHANTASM
    • SPANGRAM:WILLOTHEWISP

    What is NYT Strands?

    Strands is the NYT's not-so-new-any-more word game, following Wordle and Connections. It's now a fully fledged member of the NYT's games stable that has been running for a year and which can be played on the NYT Games site on desktop or mobile.

    I've got a full guide to how to play NYT Strands, complete with tips for solving it, so check that out if you're struggling to beat it each day.

    ]]>     <![CDATA[ How to watch USA vs Mexico: International Friendly 2026 Live Streams & TV Channels ]]>
  • USA vs Mexico: Saturday, October 3, 2026
  • Use Norton VPN to watch from anywhere
  • Kick-off: 10pm ET / 7pm PT / 3am BST (Sun) / 12pm AEST (Sun)

    • Watch USA vs Mexico live streams as Mauricio Pochettino and Rafael Marquez lead their respective sides in the latest friendly between the neighbors, at State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona. The USMNT have recorded two wins from two this international period, while El Tri have recorded two draws.

    Pochettino selected an experimental squad for this round of four international friendlies, with Ricard Pepi, Christian Pulisic and Folarin Balogun all absent through a mixture of injury and load management. Though Tyler Adams, Yunus Musah and Antonee Robinson bring their experience, Middlesbrough midfielder Sebastian Berhalter has been among those to take their chance in 4-1 and 4-2 victories over Peru and Chile, respectively. Now comes their biggest test since the demoralizing last-16 World Cup defeat by Belgium.

    Mexico also exited their home tournament in the last 16, falling 3-2 to 10-man England in a rare defeat at the Estadio Azteca. El Tri have a new face in the dugout, where Rafael Marquez succeeded Javier Aguirre in July. The former Barcelona defender has presided over a pair of 1-1 draw thus far – against Colombia and Peru – but Marquez's desire to make use of 17-year-old wunderkid Gilberto Mora is already conspicuous. Mora scored against Colombia and is central to the progressive style Marquez will demand from his side.

    Here's where to watch USA vs Mexico live streams online from anywhere – starting with FREE trial options.

    Can I watch USA vs Mexico for free?

    Yes, if you live in Mexico. Free-to-air Canal 5 and TV Azteca 7 will be showing the USA vs Mexico game.

    Though there are no dedicated free live streams to watch USA vs Mexico in the US, there are some OTT streaming options with free trials if you've cut the cord.

    TNT is showing the game with English-language commentary and the linear TV channel is offered by certain OTT cable alternatives such as YouTube TV and Hulu + Live TV. Both have 3-day free trials.

    Not at home right now? Get a VPN like Norton VPN to watch your regular streams without getting geo-blocked.

    Use a VPN to watch any USA vs Mexico stream

    Editors Choice

    ► Sign up to Norton VPN and watch USA vs Mexico with our exclusive offer

    Norton VPN is fast, reliable and packed with useful features, with server locations worldwide. Its Ultimate plan is especially great value, protecting up to 20 devices under one subscription.

    ✅ 60-day money-back guarantee
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    Even better: TechRadar readers get an exclusive discount on Norton VPN.VIEW DEAL ON

    How to watch USA vs Mexico live streams in the US

    US flag

    Coverage of USA vs Mexico is shared between TNT, HBO Max and Peacock.

    TNT is available on many cable plans, or you can stream directly from HBO Max with a Standard plan that costs $18.49/month or $184.99/year. That also gives you access to USA vs Mexico action via TNT.

    If you're a cord cutter, Sling TV is an OTT service that carries TNT via its Sling Orange package ($4.99 a day, $14.99 a week, $45.99 a month).

    Alternatively, TNT is also carried by YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, both of which offer a 3-day free trial to new users.

    If you want Spanish commentary, via Telemundo, Peacock Premium plans start from $12.99 a month, or $129.99 a year.

    You can also watch if you take out a 30-day trial of Walmart+ for $1, which includes Peacock access as a membership benefit.

    Get a VPN like Norton VPN to watch your regular US stream if you're not at home right now.

    Can I watch USA vs Mexico live streams in Canada, UK or Australia

    Unfortunately, as it stands, USA vs Mexico doesn't have a broadcaster in Canada, the UK or Australia.

    In any of these countries on vacation from the US? Remember that a VPN is all you need to tune back in to your preferred soccer coverage wherever you are.

    What is the USA vs Mexico head-to-head?

    The US and Mexico have met on a soccer field 81 times previously. The USMNT have won 25 to Mexico's 40, with 16 draws.

    Mexico have won the past two encounters, in October 2024 and July 2025, but the US were unbeaten in the previous seven.

    We test and review VPN services in the context of legal recreational uses. For example:1. Accessing a service from another country (subject to the terms and conditions of that service).2. Protecting your online security and strengthening your online privacy when abroad.We do not support or condone the illegal or malicious use of VPN services. Consuming pirated content that is paid-for is neither endorsed nor approved by Future Publishing.

    ]]>     https://www.techradar.com/how-to-watch/football/usa-vs-mexico-international-friendly-2026 X86eVXp5jSrBoDu5QBDGXd Sat, 03 Oct 2026 22:00:00 +0000 false false false

    Watch USA vs Mexico live streams as Mauricio Pochettino and Rafael Marquez lead their respective sides in the latest friendly between the neighbors, at State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona. The USMNT have recorded two wins from two this international period, while El Tri have recorded two draws.

    Pochettino selected an experimental squad for this round of four international friendlies, with Ricard Pepi, Christian Pulisic and Folarin Balogun all absent through a mixture of injury and load management. Though Tyler Adams, Yunus Musah and Antonee Robinson bring their experience, Middlesbrough midfielder Sebastian Berhalter has been among those to take their chance in 4-1 and 4-2 victories over Peru and Chile, respectively. Now comes their biggest test since the demoralizing last-16 World Cup defeat by Belgium.

    Mexico also exited their home tournament in the last 16, falling 3-2 to 10-man England in a rare defeat at the Estadio Azteca. El Tri have a new face in the dugout, where Rafael Marquez succeeded Javier Aguirre in July. The former Barcelona defender has presided over a pair of 1-1 draw thus far – against Colombia and Peru – but Marquez's desire to make use of 17-year-old wunderkid Gilberto Mora is already conspicuous. Mora scored against Colombia and is central to the progressive style Marquez will demand from his side.

    Here's where to watch USA vs Mexico live streams online from anywhere – starting with FREE trial options.

    Can I watch USA vs Mexico for free?

    Yes, if you live in Mexico. Free-to-air Canal 5 and TV Azteca 7 will be showing the USA vs Mexico game.

    Though there are no dedicated free live streams to watch USA vs Mexico in the US, there are some OTT streaming options with free trials if you've cut the cord.

    TNT is showing the game with English-language commentary and the linear TV channel is offered by certain OTT cable alternatives such as YouTube TV and Hulu + Live TV. Both have 3-day free trials.

    Not at home right now? Get a VPN like Norton VPN to watch your regular streams without getting geo-blocked.

    Use a VPN to watch any USA vs Mexico stream

    Editors Choice

    ► Sign up to Norton VPN and watch USA vs Mexico with our exclusive offer

    Norton VPN is fast, reliable and packed with useful features, with server locations worldwide. Its Ultimate plan is especially great value, protecting up to 20 devices under one subscription.

    ✅ 60-day money-back guarantee
    ✅ Save 64% on the Ultimate plan
    ✅ Just $4.49 per month

    Even better: TechRadar readers get an exclusive discount on Norton VPN.VIEW DEAL ON

    How to watch USA vs Mexico live streams in the US

    US flag

    Coverage of USA vs Mexico is shared between TNT, HBO Max and Peacock.

    TNT is available on many cable plans, or you can stream directly from HBO Max with a Standard plan that costs $18.49/month or $184.99/year. That also gives you access to USA vs Mexico action via TNT.

    If you're a cord cutter, Sling TV is an OTT service that carries TNT via its Sling Orange package ($4.99 a day, $14.99 a week, $45.99 a month).

    Alternatively, TNT is also carried by YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, both of which offer a 3-day free trial to new users.

    If you want Spanish commentary, via Telemundo, Peacock Premium plans start from $12.99 a month, or $129.99 a year.

    You can also watch if you take out a 30-day trial of Walmart+ for $1, which includes Peacock access as a membership benefit.

    Get a VPN like Norton VPN to watch your regular US stream if you're not at home right now.

    Can I watch USA vs Mexico live streams in Canada, UK or Australia

    Unfortunately, as it stands, USA vs Mexico doesn't have a broadcaster in Canada, the UK or Australia.

    In any of these countries on vacation from the US? Remember that a VPN is all you need to tune back in to your preferred soccer coverage wherever you are.

    What is the USA vs Mexico head-to-head?

    The US and Mexico have met on a soccer field 81 times previously. The USMNT have won 25 to Mexico's 40, with 16 draws.

    Mexico have won the past two encounters, in October 2024 and July 2025, but the US were unbeaten in the previous seven.

    We test and review VPN services in the context of legal recreational uses. For example:1. Accessing a service from another country (subject to the terms and conditions of that service).2. Protecting your online security and strengthening your online privacy when abroad.We do not support or condone the illegal or malicious use of VPN services. Consuming pirated content that is paid-for is neither endorsed nor approved by Future Publishing.

    ]]>     <![CDATA[ The Expanse: Osiris Reborn feels incredibly Xbox 360, for better and for worse ]]> Mass-Effect-a-likes are a lot like interstellar buses: you wait ten years for one to arrive, and then two warp into view at once.

    Unveiled at this year’s Summer Game Fest, both The Expanse: Osiris Reborn and Exodus look set to capitalise on the gaping hole left by BioWare’s beloved MIA franchise. Yet where Exodus’ Matthew McConaughey-starring project left Gamescom to rave reviews, in my infinite wisdom, I ventured into the far reaches of the outer rim to investigate the other Mass Effect-inspired epic: a sci-fi action-adventure based on the hit TV show, The Expanse.

    With nine books to its name and six seasons of acclaimed television, Osiris Reborn was, I wagered, the candidate most likely to deliver a deep, narrative-led role-playing game (RPG) experience. Yet after an hour and a half spent sneaking across space stations, blasting soldiers, and fleeing stalking mutants, it turns out The Expanse isn’t really a narratively rich Mass Effect revival at all. It’s a so-so sci-fi Gears of War.

    “We start the game from the Phoebe incident... It's set between Season 1 and Season 2 of the TV series... within the first two books,” explains Natalia Turina, lead level designer, as I pick up the controller and take my first steps.

    Put into the space boots of the player protagonist and her twin, J, I join the duo as they infiltrate a space station owned by a shady private military corporation, Protogen. After a recent shipjacking by their crew, the duo has snuck deep into enemy territory with one vital task — delete the shipjacking’s virtual evidence from Protogen servers, and get the hell out.

    Less normandy, more office bureaucracy

    A screenshot from The Expanse Osiris Reborn showing two five characters gathered around a table

    (Image credit: Owlcat Games)

    Thanks to its rich source material, I went into my demo expecting a deftly written, choice-driven world. Yet while the fiction of The Expanse promises a glimpse into a complex future, playing Osiris Reborn feels like traveling back into console gaming’s beige-looking past.

    After slowly inspecting the busy cargo ship undercover, I duck and weave between armed enemy forces without arousing any suspicion, eavesdropping on ship personnel before heading to the ship’s computers.

    As I pretend to be shipping a piece of intergalactic cargo and helmet-clad guards stare me down with assault rifles cocked, this should be a masterclass in tension and subterfuge. Instead, as I’m tasked with walking back and forth between computer terminals, I’m not immersed in the universe’s knotty politics — I’m bogged down by the minutiae of intergalactic shipping logistics.

    “For choices in an RPG to feel meaningful, you need to believe in this world,” says Turina. “Every space needs to make sense — what is this place, how does it operate? This is why we spend so much time on the environment.”

    It’s an answer that makes sense on paper, yet while rich in detail, there’s nothing exciting about the lore nuggets that I uncover. Well, I guess I certainly know how intergalactic shipping containers operate. After some more perfunctory dialogue, my cover is blown. Luckily, just as the alarm sounds and the station is alerted to our presence, I’m saved by an ambush. As a squad of a rival militia faction breaches the airlock, the formerly mundane depot erupts into a hail of gunfire.

    A world stuck in the Xbox 360 era

    A screenshot from The Expanse Osiris Reborn showing two characters in the middle of a firefight

    (Image credit: Owlcat Games)

    Thankfully, combat fares a bit better than the world-building. Part Gears of War, part Binary Domain, there’s a retro 2010 feel to its firefights — for better and for worse.

    Much like Commander Shepherd before me, I sprint between cover, deploy a drone, and blind-fire into a series of heavily armoured mercenaries, swapping between an assault rifle and shotgun. As I toss grenades at advancing militia and shatter glass over crouching enemies, I’m told players are free to change their specialisms on the fly, tweaking their tactical approach as needed via extensive skill trees.

    It’s all functional lizard brain stuff, but while enjoyable, I worry that the combat [so far] doesn't feel dynamic enough to truly elevate it from the Xbox 360 era of cover shooters — let alone compete with modern peers.

    Character interactions also struggle to hit the mark. When I encounter a lone marine — his hardened status signalled primarily by relentless swearing — our protagonist and her companion accept him as an ally almost immediately, despite being deep in enemy territory and under fire from multiple forces. It’s a jarring, immersion-breaking moment that once again highlights the quality of BioWare’s dialogue.

    For all the granular detail painstakingly poured into Osiris Reborn’s lavishly rendered environments, its characterisation and dialogue currently feel paper-thin.

    Running from horror, missing the tension

    A screenshot from The Expanse Osiris Reborn showing a character in a spaceship's hydroponics area

    (Image credit: Owlcat Games)

    A late-demo pivot sees me being stalked by a Protogen-developed experimental mutant who broke containment amidst all the gunfire. Whoops. Impervious to bullets, the creature forces me into a frantic sprint down half-lit corridors. Where in Resident Evil or Dead Space this would be an exercise in sphincter-clenching terror, blending eerie exploration with a heart-pounding chase sequence, here the pursuit lacks any real tension. From the creature’s unconvincing AI to a complete lack of cinematic flair, I merely felt like I was running from A to B, meekly jogging toward a doorway to trigger the next cutscene.

    As shiny as Owlcat’s mix of cover shooter and RPG is, I came away from my hour-and-a-half Osiris Reborn demo feeling fairly underwhelmed. Mass Effect won hearts not just through its worldbuilding, but through the strength of its writing: sharp wit, genuine heart, and moral dilemmas that stayed with you long after the credits rolled. It’s why during its ten-year absence, fans of BioWare’s space opera have been pining for a franchise to fill that galaxy-sized hole. So far, it sadly doesn’t look like Osiris Reborn is up to the task.

    A screenshot from The Expanse Osiris Reborn showing a spaceship's landscape area in a sealed biome

    (Image credit: Owlcat Games)

    While I’m told the full game will feature wider exploration and more side missions and roleplaying, what I saw left me concerned that Osiris Reborn is less a Mass Effect spiritual successor and more a pale imitation.

    Owlcat Games may borrow the same core Mass Effect ingredients, it appears to cook them together with none of the same skill or soul; its blend of corridor walks, light puzzles, and chest-high cover shooting feels closer to Kane & Lynch than Knights of the Old Republic.

    With the full game not due out until next year, there is, of course, still time to refine the formula. Here’s hoping that the final adventure lives up to the title — expanding its source material’s beloved universe and, with any luck, helping its RPG aspirations be reborn.

    ]]>     https://www.techradar.com/gaming/the-expanse-osiris-reborn-feels-incredibly-xbox-360-for-better-and-for-worse mFzMiDNarRa4oD2pD9W5K6 Sat, 03 Oct 2026 22:00:00 +0000 false false false

    Mass-Effect-a-likes are a lot like interstellar buses: you wait ten years for one to arrive, and then two warp into view at once.

    Unveiled at this year’s Summer Game Fest, both The Expanse: Osiris Reborn and Exodus look set to capitalise on the gaping hole left by BioWare’s beloved MIA franchise. Yet where Exodus’ Matthew McConaughey-starring project left Gamescom to rave reviews, in my infinite wisdom, I ventured into the far reaches of the outer rim to investigate the other Mass Effect-inspired epic: a sci-fi action-adventure based on the hit TV show, The Expanse.

    With nine books to its name and six seasons of acclaimed television, Osiris Reborn was, I wagered, the candidate most likely to deliver a deep, narrative-led role-playing game (RPG) experience. Yet after an hour and a half spent sneaking across space stations, blasting soldiers, and fleeing stalking mutants, it turns out The Expanse isn’t really a narratively rich Mass Effect revival at all. It’s a so-so sci-fi Gears of War.

    “We start the game from the Phoebe incident... It's set between Season 1 and Season 2 of the TV series... within the first two books,” explains Natalia Turina, lead level designer, as I pick up the controller and take my first steps.

    Put into the space boots of the player protagonist and her twin, J, I join the duo as they infiltrate a space station owned by a shady private military corporation, Protogen. After a recent shipjacking by their crew, the duo has snuck deep into enemy territory with one vital task — delete the shipjacking’s virtual evidence from Protogen servers, and get the hell out.

    Less normandy, more office bureaucracy

    A screenshot from The Expanse Osiris Reborn showing two five characters gathered around a table

    (Image credit: Owlcat Games)

    Thanks to its rich source material, I went into my demo expecting a deftly written, choice-driven world. Yet while the fiction of The Expanse promises a glimpse into a complex future, playing Osiris Reborn feels like traveling back into console gaming’s beige-looking past.

    After slowly inspecting the busy cargo ship undercover, I duck and weave between armed enemy forces without arousing any suspicion, eavesdropping on ship personnel before heading to the ship’s computers.

    As I pretend to be shipping a piece of intergalactic cargo and helmet-clad guards stare me down with assault rifles cocked, this should be a masterclass in tension and subterfuge. Instead, as I’m tasked with walking back and forth between computer terminals, I’m not immersed in the universe’s knotty politics — I’m bogged down by the minutiae of intergalactic shipping logistics.

    “For choices in an RPG to feel meaningful, you need to believe in this world,” says Turina. “Every space needs to make sense — what is this place, how does it operate? This is why we spend so much time on the environment.”

    It’s an answer that makes sense on paper, yet while rich in detail, there’s nothing exciting about the lore nuggets that I uncover. Well, I guess I certainly know how intergalactic shipping containers operate. After some more perfunctory dialogue, my cover is blown. Luckily, just as the alarm sounds and the station is alerted to our presence, I’m saved by an ambush. As a squad of a rival militia faction breaches the airlock, the formerly mundane depot erupts into a hail of gunfire.

    A world stuck in the Xbox 360 era

    A screenshot from The Expanse Osiris Reborn showing two characters in the middle of a firefight

    (Image credit: Owlcat Games)

    Thankfully, combat fares a bit better than the world-building. Part Gears of War, part Binary Domain, there’s a retro 2010 feel to its firefights — for better and for worse.

    Much like Commander Shepherd before me, I sprint between cover, deploy a drone, and blind-fire into a series of heavily armoured mercenaries, swapping between an assault rifle and shotgun. As I toss grenades at advancing militia and shatter glass over crouching enemies, I’m told players are free to change their specialisms on the fly, tweaking their tactical approach as needed via extensive skill trees.

    It’s all functional lizard brain stuff, but while enjoyable, I worry that the combat [so far] doesn't feel dynamic enough to truly elevate it from the Xbox 360 era of cover shooters — let alone compete with modern peers.

    Character interactions also struggle to hit the mark. When I encounter a lone marine — his hardened status signalled primarily by relentless swearing — our protagonist and her companion accept him as an ally almost immediately, despite being deep in enemy territory and under fire from multiple forces. It’s a jarring, immersion-breaking moment that once again highlights the quality of BioWare’s dialogue.

    For all the granular detail painstakingly poured into Osiris Reborn’s lavishly rendered environments, its characterisation and dialogue currently feel paper-thin.

    Running from horror, missing the tension

    A screenshot from The Expanse Osiris Reborn showing a character in a spaceship's hydroponics area

    (Image credit: Owlcat Games)

    A late-demo pivot sees me being stalked by a Protogen-developed experimental mutant who broke containment amidst all the gunfire. Whoops. Impervious to bullets, the creature forces me into a frantic sprint down half-lit corridors. Where in Resident Evil or Dead Space this would be an exercise in sphincter-clenching terror, blending eerie exploration with a heart-pounding chase sequence, here the pursuit lacks any real tension. From the creature’s unconvincing AI to a complete lack of cinematic flair, I merely felt like I was running from A to B, meekly jogging toward a doorway to trigger the next cutscene.

    As shiny as Owlcat’s mix of cover shooter and RPG is, I came away from my hour-and-a-half Osiris Reborn demo feeling fairly underwhelmed. Mass Effect won hearts not just through its worldbuilding, but through the strength of its writing: sharp wit, genuine heart, and moral dilemmas that stayed with you long after the credits rolled. It’s why during its ten-year absence, fans of BioWare’s space opera have been pining for a franchise to fill that galaxy-sized hole. So far, it sadly doesn’t look like Osiris Reborn is up to the task.

    A screenshot from The Expanse Osiris Reborn showing a spaceship's landscape area in a sealed biome

    (Image credit: Owlcat Games)

    While I’m told the full game will feature wider exploration and more side missions and roleplaying, what I saw left me concerned that Osiris Reborn is less a Mass Effect spiritual successor and more a pale imitation.

    Owlcat Games may borrow the same core Mass Effect ingredients, it appears to cook them together with none of the same skill or soul; its blend of corridor walks, light puzzles, and chest-high cover shooting feels closer to Kane & Lynch than Knights of the Old Republic.

    With the full game not due out until next year, there is, of course, still time to refine the formula. Here’s hoping that the final adventure lives up to the title — expanding its source material’s beloved universe and, with any luck, helping its RPG aspirations be reborn.

    ]]>     <![CDATA[ Quote of the day by ARC Prize co-founder François Chollet: "OpenAI basically set back progress to AGI by five to 10 years" ]]> Many AI developers and frontier labs are openly pursuing artificial general intelligence (AGI), which scientists describe as human-like intelligence in which a model can reason like humans and learn new capabilities outside its training data. But does that mean that they're all on the right path?

    Chasing the dragon

    If we achieved AGI, how would we even know? Many AI benchmarks exist, but François Chollet co-founded the ARC Prize just a few months before speaking with the Dwarkesh Podcast to get to the bottom of this.

    Quote of the day

    This article is part of TechRadar Pro's QOTD project to provide an insight into the minds of the brightest and most recognized figures in the technology industry today and in years gone by. Read the full series here.

    In comments on the podcast, he explained that large language models (LLMs), which are based on neural networks, is a dead end when it comes to achieving AGI. That doesn't mean there wasn't room to improve LLMs so they were more powerful, autonomous and useful to businesses. But that isn't the same thing as AGI.

    By pouring funding into LLMs at the expense of other avenues or architectures, Chollet explained, the road to true AGI is being ignored. The result? Progress has been set back by up to a decade.

    Intelligent systems

    Despite Chollet's steadfast belief that LLMs will not get us any closer to AGI, many technology executives have spent the last few weeks opining about the possible threat that they pose to humanity.

    Ahead of OpenAI and Anthropic's as-of-yet-undetermined IPOs, both companies have taken turns disclosing increasingly worrying incidents, including cybersecurity breaches. These stories have, in many people's eyes, simply served to hype up the capabilities of existing technologies for marketing purposes.

    As for Chollet, the whole purpose of the ARC-AGI benchmark is to determine true progress toward AGI. While LLMs are performing better on this especially tough benchmark, none have come close to hitting the mark.

    ]]>     https://www.techradar.com/pro/quote-of-the-day-by-arc-prize-co-founder-francois-chollet-openai-basically-set-back-progress-to-agi-by-five-to-10-years-critiquing-the-industrys-overindulgence-in-large-language-models WgffmqUy79nwwcWBSgfxz6 Sat, 03 Oct 2026 22:00:00 +0000 false false false

    Many AI developers and frontier labs are openly pursuing artificial general intelligence (AGI), which scientists describe as human-like intelligence in which a model can reason like humans and learn new capabilities outside its training data. But does that mean that they're all on the right path?

    Chasing the dragon

    If we achieved AGI, how would we even know? Many AI benchmarks exist, but François Chollet co-founded the ARC Prize just a few months before speaking with the Dwarkesh Podcast to get to the bottom of this.

    Quote of the day

    This article is part of TechRadar Pro's QOTD project to provide an insight into the minds of the brightest and most recognized figures in the technology industry today and in years gone by. Read the full series here.

    In comments on the podcast, he explained that large language models (LLMs), which are based on neural networks, is a dead end when it comes to achieving AGI. That doesn't mean there wasn't room to improve LLMs so they were more powerful, autonomous and useful to businesses. But that isn't the same thing as AGI.

    By pouring funding into LLMs at the expense of other avenues or architectures, Chollet explained, the road to true AGI is being ignored. The result? Progress has been set back by up to a decade.

    Intelligent systems

    Despite Chollet's steadfast belief that LLMs will not get us any closer to AGI, many technology executives have spent the last few weeks opining about the possible threat that they pose to humanity.

    Ahead of OpenAI and Anthropic's as-of-yet-undetermined IPOs, both companies have taken turns disclosing increasingly worrying incidents, including cybersecurity breaches. These stories have, in many people's eyes, simply served to hype up the capabilities of existing technologies for marketing purposes.

    As for Chollet, the whole purpose of the ARC-AGI benchmark is to determine true progress toward AGI. While LLMs are performing better on this especially tough benchmark, none have come close to hitting the mark.

    ]]>     <![CDATA[ Nearly 10,000 acres of Utah public land could host 456 nuclear reactors — enough power for 7-8 million homes, but none of them will get any of that power ]]>
  • Project Beehive plans 456 reactors across more than 9,000 acres
  • The proposed 9.6GW is 2.4 times what Utah generates on average today
  • Power enough for 7 million homes will go to data centers instead

    • Valar Atomics has filed a proposal to place 456 nuclear reactors on over 9,000 acres of federal land around Price, Utah, supplying computing facilities with 9.6GW — a project called Project Beehive.

    Each unit would generate 25MW, so the modular layout allows the company to build the site in stages as computing demand grows.

    Valar also wants roughly 650 additional acres controlled by Utah, which would push the total footprint of the campus above 9,650 acres.

    Power output and design

    Valar earlier considered a 10,200-acre parcel close to Green River, then dropped that location and filed the current request for land near Price.

    The proposed 456 reactors would reportedly produce roughly 9.6GW, which is more than twice the 4GW that Utah generates on average today.

    At a US household average of 900 to 1,000 kWh per month, 9.6GW running continuously would supply roughly 7 to 7.8 million homes.

    According to the US Census Bureau estimates, Utah has about 1.3 million homes, so the campus could power Utah homes roughly 5.4 to 6x over, but none of this power is for homes.

    However, the announced figures contain a discrepancy: 456 reactors at 25MW each give 11.4GW rather than 9.6GW, a difference of 1.8GW that the published figures leave unexplained.

    Project Beehive is designed primarily for data centers given their immense power demands.

    The company also expects the reactors to deliver industrial heat to manufacturing plants and similar operations, alongside the electricity consumed by the computing facilities.

    Valar describes the campus as grid-independent, meaning it would generate its own electricity rather than draw from the power grid.

    The reactor design relies on helium coolant, graphite and TRISO fuel, and Valar plans fuel manufacturing plus storage for nuclear waste on the same grounds.

    Approvals, money and local pushback

    Major work cannot begin until the BLM, an Interior Department bureau, finishes checking that the application is complete and conducts the review required under NEPA.

    Under NEPA, the agency studies environmental effects and may invite public participation, which would give opponents and supporters a formal route to speak on the project.

    The proposal plans for non-nuclear work to start in late 2026, reactor operations in 2028, and completion of the entire campus in 2032.

    Groups in the area have raised concerns about the campus's size and location, as well as proposed waste storage and industrial activity on public land.

    Valar has raised $1 billion in a Series B round led by Sequoia Capital and secured a further $200 million in credit.

    That $1 billion backs Valar as a company and is not the cost of building Project Beehive, which Valar has not disclosed.

    Given that approval on land allocation and ecological impact remains pending, there is no certainty that Project Beehive will follow its proposed timeline or that it will be built at all.

    Via Construction Review

    Google logo on a black background next to text reading 'Click to follow TechRadar'

    ]]>     https://www.techradar.com/pro/phone-communications/nearly-10-000-acres-of-utah-public-land-could-host-456-nuclear-reactors-enough-power-for-7-8-million-homes-but-no-home-will-get-any-of-that-power WJFvd6coEkJBx7jVihucEk Sat, 03 Oct 2026 21:25:00 +0000 false false false
    • Project Beehive plans 456 reactors across more than 9,000 acres
    • The proposed 9.6GW is 2.4 times what Utah generates on average today
    • Power enough for 7 million homes will go to data centers instead

    Valar Atomics has filed a proposal to place 456 nuclear reactors on over 9,000 acres of federal land around Price, Utah, supplying computing facilities with 9.6GW — a project called Project Beehive.

    Each unit would generate 25MW, so the modular layout allows the company to build the site in stages as computing demand grows.

    Valar also wants roughly 650 additional acres controlled by Utah, which would push the total footprint of the campus above 9,650 acres.

    Power output and design

    Valar earlier considered a 10,200-acre parcel close to Green River, then dropped that location and filed the current request for land near Price.

    The proposed 456 reactors would reportedly produce roughly 9.6GW, which is more than twice the 4GW that Utah generates on average today.

    At a US household average of 900 to 1,000 kWh per month, 9.6GW running continuously would supply roughly 7 to 7.8 million homes.

    According to the US Census Bureau estimates, Utah has about 1.3 million homes, so the campus could power Utah homes roughly 5.4 to 6x over, but none of this power is for homes.

    However, the announced figures contain a discrepancy: 456 reactors at 25MW each give 11.4GW rather than 9.6GW, a difference of 1.8GW that the published figures leave unexplained.

    Project Beehive is designed primarily for data centers given their immense power demands.

    The company also expects the reactors to deliver industrial heat to manufacturing plants and similar operations, alongside the electricity consumed by the computing facilities.

    Valar describes the campus as grid-independent, meaning it would generate its own electricity rather than draw from the power grid.

    The reactor design relies on helium coolant, graphite and TRISO fuel, and Valar plans fuel manufacturing plus storage for nuclear waste on the same grounds.

    Approvals, money and local pushback

    Major work cannot begin until the BLM, an Interior Department bureau, finishes checking that the application is complete and conducts the review required under NEPA.

    Under NEPA, the agency studies environmental effects and may invite public participation, which would give opponents and supporters a formal route to speak on the project.

    The proposal plans for non-nuclear work to start in late 2026, reactor operations in 2028, and completion of the entire campus in 2032.

    Groups in the area have raised concerns about the campus's size and location, as well as proposed waste storage and industrial activity on public land.

    Valar has raised $1 billion in a Series B round led by Sequoia Capital and secured a further $200 million in credit.

    That $1 billion backs Valar as a company and is not the cost of building Project Beehive, which Valar has not disclosed.

    Given that approval on land allocation and ecological impact remains pending, there is no certainty that Project Beehive will follow its proposed timeline or that it will be built at all.

    Via Construction Review

    Google logo on a black background next to text reading 'Click to follow TechRadar'

    ]]>     <![CDATA[ Apple Watch Series 12 vs Garmin Cirqa for one week — sleep scores compared ]]> I've been wearing the Apple Watch Series 12 to bed every night for a week now, which means, after seven nights of calibration, I finally got the benefits of the revamped Vitals app and the new Readiness Score. The Watch has to learn your baseline metrics so it can see outliers, which is why it takes a week for the Vitals app to gauge whether your heart rate variability, respiratory rate, blood oxygen and more fall within your 'typical' range.

    Readiness is the last metric, as it aggregates your sleep quality based on these parameters, compares it with your activity levels and gives you a score from 1 to 10 on how energetic and prepared-for-the-day you might be feeling.

    This is the first time Apple devices have had a Readiness metric, compared to the long-serving nature of the features on the best Garmin watches, Samsung and Google wearables, and many others, so naturally, I wanted to compare it with another wearable device.

    These days, I'm most often using my Garmin Cirqa for sleep tracking, so I kept wearing it on my right wrist, and the Apple Watch Series 12 on my left. Below, I've compared my sleep scores from across the week for accuracy, as well as my Readiness at the end of it all.

    Sleep scores across the week

    Apple Watch Series 12 vs Garmin Cirqa

    (Image credit: Future / Matt Evans)

    I fully expected Apple and Garmin to provide disparate scores at first, only to tighten up as the week progressed and Apple learned more about my body. Sure enough, that's exactly what happened, as Apple gave my first night a score of 93 compared to Garmin's dismal 62.

    After that, you can see above that the graph follows the same general trends: a rising incline as the week progresses, with a dip in the middle, and a high final night.

    The main outlier other than night 1 is night 6, for which I have no explanation. Garmin gave me a score as high as 87, while Apple gave me a mere 68. You can see the difference in the graphs above, but I've listed all my scores in the table below, too.

    Date

    Garmin

    Apple

    26/09/2026

    62

    93

    27/09/2026

    67

    56

    28/09/2026

    78

    82

    29/09/2026

    95

    84

    30/09/2026

    77

    72

    01/10/2026

    87

    68

    02/10/2026

    87

    83

    Perhaps there will always be these outliers here and there. Research from health data API creator Terra measured 77,000 nights' sleep across six major wearables companies, and found that while most trackers are accurate enough to converge on duration and general trends, sometimes outliers in their data exist due to the different sensors and algorithms used between manufacturers.

    The study stated that "once you break sleep into stages [light, deep, REM phases of sleep], agreement [between wearables] falls apart: REM, deep, and light can diverge by hours in direct comparisons."

    However, are these outliers statistically important, as long as the wearables are all charting similar trends coming to the same conclusions?

    Readiness

    Apple Watch Series 12 vs Garmin Cirqa

    (Image credit: Future / Matt Evans)

    At the end of the week, I got my first Readiness score from Apple. It was a 7/10, indicating that I was 'ready' without being 100% prepared for a mammoth workout.

    Checking the Garmin Connect app, I was surprised to see a Readiness score of 70/100, indicating that even though there were some outliers along the way, the wearables came to the exact same conclusion after a week of constant wear. Success!

    While some discrepancies were present during the week, Garmin and Apple both came to the same conclusion on Readiness and offered a similar-shaped sleep score graph, indicating that they're internally consistent and generally quite accurate.

    I'd be happy to wear either one to track my sleep, Readiness and fitness in general terms. However, the differences in individual data points are a reminder not to get too caught up into the weeds of the data: as clever as they are, these devices are imperfect, and they estimate. You can see differences in my Apple Watch Series 12 vs Garmin Fenix 9 Pro test too.

    If you find yourself stressing too much over your scores or your data, or you feel differently than your watch says you ought to feel, prioritize the messages from your body over the ones from your wearable — and don't be afraid to get a night of untracked sleep now and again to free yourself from sleep score anxiety.

    ]]>     https://www.techradar.com/health-fitness/smartwatches/i-measured-my-sleep-scores-for-a-week-with-both-the-apple-watch-series-12-and-the-garmin-cirqa-heres-how-they-compare x7qSrEPDYyjxdnidNKdFmH Sat, 03 Oct 2026 21:00:00 +0000 false false false

    I've been wearing the Apple Watch Series 12 to bed every night for a week now, which means, after seven nights of calibration, I finally got the benefits of the revamped Vitals app and the new Readiness Score. The Watch has to learn your baseline metrics so it can see outliers, which is why it takes a week for the Vitals app to gauge whether your heart rate variability, respiratory rate, blood oxygen and more fall within your 'typical' range.

    Readiness is the last metric, as it aggregates your sleep quality based on these parameters, compares it with your activity levels and gives you a score from 1 to 10 on how energetic and prepared-for-the-day you might be feeling.

    This is the first time Apple devices have had a Readiness metric, compared to the long-serving nature of the features on the best Garmin watches, Samsung and Google wearables, and many others, so naturally, I wanted to compare it with another wearable device.

    These days, I'm most often using my Garmin Cirqa for sleep tracking, so I kept wearing it on my right wrist, and the Apple Watch Series 12 on my left. Below, I've compared my sleep scores from across the week for accuracy, as well as my Readiness at the end of it all.

    Sleep scores across the week

    Apple Watch Series 12 vs Garmin Cirqa

    (Image credit: Future / Matt Evans)

    I fully expected Apple and Garmin to provide disparate scores at first, only to tighten up as the week progressed and Apple learned more about my body. Sure enough, that's exactly what happened, as Apple gave my first night a score of 93 compared to Garmin's dismal 62.

    After that, you can see above that the graph follows the same general trends: a rising incline as the week progresses, with a dip in the middle, and a high final night.

    The main outlier other than night 1 is night 6, for which I have no explanation. Garmin gave me a score as high as 87, while Apple gave me a mere 68. You can see the difference in the graphs above, but I've listed all my scores in the table below, too.

    Date

    Garmin

    Apple

    26/09/2026

    62

    93

    27/09/2026

    67

    56

    28/09/2026

    78

    82

    29/09/2026

    95

    84

    30/09/2026

    77

    72

    01/10/2026

    87

    68

    02/10/2026

    87

    83

    Perhaps there will always be these outliers here and there. Research from health data API creator Terra measured 77,000 nights' sleep across six major wearables companies, and found that while most trackers are accurate enough to converge on duration and general trends, sometimes outliers in their data exist due to the different sensors and algorithms used between manufacturers.

    The study stated that "once you break sleep into stages [light, deep, REM phases of sleep], agreement [between wearables] falls apart: REM, deep, and light can diverge by hours in direct comparisons."

    However, are these outliers statistically important, as long as the wearables are all charting similar trends coming to the same conclusions?

    Readiness

    Apple Watch Series 12 vs Garmin Cirqa

    (Image credit: Future / Matt Evans)

    At the end of the week, I got my first Readiness score from Apple. It was a 7/10, indicating that I was 'ready' without being 100% prepared for a mammoth workout.

    Checking the Garmin Connect app, I was surprised to see a Readiness score of 70/100, indicating that even though there were some outliers along the way, the wearables came to the exact same conclusion after a week of constant wear. Success!

    While some discrepancies were present during the week, Garmin and Apple both came to the same conclusion on Readiness and offered a similar-shaped sleep score graph, indicating that they're internally consistent and generally quite accurate.

    I'd be happy to wear either one to track my sleep, Readiness and fitness in general terms. However, the differences in individual data points are a reminder not to get too caught up into the weeds of the data: as clever as they are, these devices are imperfect, and they estimate. You can see differences in my Apple Watch Series 12 vs Garmin Fenix 9 Pro test too.

    If you find yourself stressing too much over your scores or your data, or you feel differently than your watch says you ought to feel, prioritize the messages from your body over the ones from your wearable — and don't be afraid to get a night of untracked sleep now and again to free yourself from sleep score anxiety.

    ]]>     <![CDATA[ How to watch UFC 332 for FREE: Silva vs Wang live streams, no PPV, start time, full card ]]>
  • UFC 332: Saturday, October 3
  • Main Card time: 9pm ET / 6pm ET / 2am BST (Sun) / 11am AEST (Sun)
  • Watch on CBS / Paramount Plus for $8.99 or for $1 with Walmart+ 30-day trial (US only)
  • Overseas? Unlock your US stream with NordVPN (save up to 75%)

    • Tonight's UFC 332 features Natalia Silva taking on Wang Cong for the UFC Women's Flyweight championship as the headline bout of a stellar show at the Delta Center, Salt Lake City. The 29-year-old Silva is the No.1 contender, but don't rule out the experienced Chinese Joker who is eyeing her own success.

    With previous title holder Valentina Shevchenko vacating her belt after picking up a long-term injury, Silva was always likely to fight for the strap after beating former champions Jessica Andrade, Alexa Grasso, and Rose Namajunas in her past three bouts. Her speed around the Octagon and kicking ability make the Brazilian a fearsome prospect.

    Wang, though, is no less effective at striking and comes into this fight after four consecutive wins, including against Tracy Cortez last time out in July. Notoriously accurate with her strikes, the Joker will hope to get on the inside and grapple to take away one of her opponent's key attributes.

    That's the main event of a packed card in which fast-rising star Payton Talbott seeks to continue his career trajectory, against Deiveson Figueiredo.

    Here's where to watch UFC 332 live streams online and from anywhere with a VPN – including a clever way to watch UFC 332 for just $1.

    Watch UFC 332 for FREE

    UFC 332 is available on the linear channel CBS which is available through a variety of cord-cutting platforms that come with free trials. YouTube TV and Fubo are two that come with free trials.

    Alternatively, UFC 332 is streaming on Paramount+ in the US, and you can access it for just $1 through Walmart+. The $1 30-day Walmart+ trial includes access to the UFC 332 broadcast at no additional cost.

    Those traveling to the UK, Canada or Australia can still access free trials thanks to NordVPN.

    Use a VPN to watch UFC 332 from anywhere

    Away from home at the moment and blocked from watching UFC on your usual subscription?

    A VPN is handy piece of software that can make your device appear as if it's back in your home country, so you can unlock your usual service. The best VPN right now? We recommend NordVPN – it does everything and comes with up to 75% off.

    🟩 NordVPN – get the world's best VPN

    Not having a VPN is like leaving your front door wide open in a busy city – anyone can walk right in and take a peek.

    TechRadar regularly reviews all the biggest and best VPN providers and NordVPN is our #1 choice.

    ✅ Up to 75% off today
    ✅ 3 extra months free
    ✅ Unlocks Paramount Plus


    Get NordVPN and stream UFC 332 from anywhere.View Deal

    It's really straightforward to use a VPN to watch UFC 332.

    1. Install the VPN of your choice. As we've said, NordVPN is our favorite.

    2. Choose the location you wish to connect to in the VPN app. For example, if you want to watch the Paramount+ stream, select 'United States' from the listed countries.

    3. Sit back and enjoy the action. Head to Paramount+ and tune into UFC 332.

    How to watch UFC 332 live stream in the US

    US flag

    Exclusive US coverage of the full UFC 332 event is on CBS and Paramount Plus. It's being headlined by Natalia Silva vs Wang Cong, which is expected to start at around 11pm ET / 8pm PT.

    The main card will be shown in its entirety on CBS for the first time, which means you can watch for free with a TV antenna or cable package.

    CBS is also available with OTT streaming packages such as Fubo, YouTube TV and DirecTV, all of which come with free trial options. You'll pay for a subscription when the trial ends.

    Paramount Plus plans start from only $8.99/month with the Essential Plan, or you can upgrade to Premium for $13.99/month (see below for more details). You can also get a Paramount Plus trial with Walmart+ for $1 using this sneaky trick we found.

    While Paramount Plus will show UFC 332 in its entirety, you can also watch the Early Prelims via UFC Fight Pass.

    Traveling outside of the US? Use a VPN to watch Paramount Plus from abroad while you're away from home.

    ▶︎ GET PARAMOUNT PLUS AND STREAM UFC 332

    A Paramount Plus subscription unlocks access to UFC events, Champions League soccer, 40,000 episodes & movies on demand all for $8.99 per month.

    Go Premium for $13.99 a month or $140 for the whole year to add SHOWTIME Originals and live CBS coverage.View Deal

    How to watch UFC 332 live stream in the UK

    UK flag

    The UFC 332 main card is available on TNT Sports 1 in the UK. It's set to begin at 2am BST in the early hours of Sunday morning.

    You can get it by adding TNT Sports to your Sky, Virgin Media or EE TV package, or pay from £25.99 per month for a HBO Max plan that includes TNT Sports.

    UFC Fight Pass subscribers can also watch the Prelims and Early Prelims.

    If you're abroad whilst the MMA live stream is on, a VPN like NordVPN can help you to access your home streaming services from anywhere.

    How to watch UFC 332 live stream in Canada

    Canada flag

    The main card of UFC 332 will be available to live stream in Canada on Citytv, which is available on most cable packages.

    You can also stream via a web browser or the Citytv app by using your TV login details, or signing up to its Citytv+ streaming platform from CA$11.99/month or $100/year after first enjoying the 7-day free trial we mentioned earlier.

    Sportsnet (and its Sportsnet+ streaming platform) and TVA will also show the event in a first, without PPV. Prices are as follows:

    ▶︎ Sportsnet+ – C$29.99/month

    ▶︎ Amazon Prime – C$9.99/month or C$99/year

    ▶︎ TVA Sports Direct – C$17.99/month or C$179.99/year

    North of the border from the US? You can use NordVPN to watch your Paramount Plus subscription like you were back at home.

    How to watch UFC 332 live stream in Australia

    Australia flag

    Sunday's Main Card at UFC 332 will be available on PPV in Australia, setting you back AU$59.95 from Foxtel Main Event or Kayo Sports Main Event.

    That means you can live stream UFC 332 via your web browser and devices like Android, iOS, Samsung TV, Apple TV, Android TV, Telstra TV and Chromecast.

    You can also catch all the Prelims (but not the Silva vs Wang main event) via Paramount+ and free-to-air Network 10.

    Downloading a VPN will help you access your subscriptions from anywhere if you're abroad when the fight is on.

    Can I watch UFC 332 for free?

    Not quite. Other than the sneaky little Walmart+ for $1 trick described above in the US, there doesn't seem to be any way to watch UFC 332 for free. It's on Paramount Plus in the US, which no longer carries a free trial. And it's a PPV in many other countries around the world.

    When does UFC 332 start?

    The UFC 332 Main Card is scheduled to begin at 9pm ET / 6pm ET on Saturday, October 3. That's 2am BST or 12pm AEDT in the UK and Australia on Sunday, October 4.

    Before that, the Early Prelims start at 5pm ET / 2pm PT / 10pm BST / 8am AEST (Sun) and the Prelims at 7pm PT / 4pm PT / 12am BST (Sun) / 9am AEST (Sun).

    Can I watch UFC 332 on my mobile?

    Yes. Most broadcasters have streaming services that you can access through mobile apps or via your phone's browser – Paramount Plus, HBO Max and Kayo Sports all have mobile apps, for example.

    You can also stay up-to-date with the latest UFC news and plays on the official social media channels on X (@ufc), Instagram (@ufc), Facebook (UFC) TikTok (@ufc) and YouTube (@ufc).

    UFC 332 full card

    Main card
    Natália Silva vs Wang Cong (Women's Flyweight)
    Deiveson Figueiredovs Payton Talbott (Bantamweight)
    King Green vs Esteban Ribovic (Lightweight)
    Roberto Soldić vs Khaos Williams (Welterweight)
    Ateba Gautier vs Roman Kopylov (Middleweight)

    Prelims
    Imanol Rodríguez vs Alden Coria (Flyweight)
    Damian Pinas vs Andrey Pulyaev (Middleweight)
    Marcus McGhee vs Bernardo Sopaj (Bantamweight)
    Anthony Wint vs Lucas Armand (Heavyweight)

    Early prelims
    Johnny Walker vs Mick Parkin (Heavyweight)
    Rafael dos Anjos vs Alexander Hernandez (Lightweight)
    Marvin Vettori vs Ismail Naurdiev (Middleweight)
    Jacobe Smith vs Bruce Whitehead (Welterweight)
    Court McGee vs Eric Nolan (Welterweight)

    We test and review VPN services in the context of legal recreational uses. For example:1. Accessing a service from another country (subject to the terms and conditions of that service).2. Protecting your online security and strengthening your online privacy when abroad.We do not support or condone the illegal or malicious use of VPN services. Consuming pirated content that is paid-for is neither endorsed nor approved by Future Publishing.

    ]]>     https://www.techradar.com/how-to-watch/sport/ufc-332-silva-vs-wang p85ihyZsAjiPP687hEeBwR Sat, 03 Oct 2026 20:00:00 +0000 false false false

    Tonight's UFC 332 features Natalia Silva taking on Wang Cong for the UFC Women's Flyweight championship as the headline bout of a stellar show at the Delta Center, Salt Lake City. The 29-year-old Silva is the No.1 contender, but don't rule out the experienced Chinese Joker who is eyeing her own success.

    With previous title holder Valentina Shevchenko vacating her belt after picking up a long-term injury, Silva was always likely to fight for the strap after beating former champions Jessica Andrade, Alexa Grasso, and Rose Namajunas in her past three bouts. Her speed around the Octagon and kicking ability make the Brazilian a fearsome prospect.

    Wang, though, is no less effective at striking and comes into this fight after four consecutive wins, including against Tracy Cortez last time out in July. Notoriously accurate with her strikes, the Joker will hope to get on the inside and grapple to take away one of her opponent's key attributes.

    That's the main event of a packed card in which fast-rising star Payton Talbott seeks to continue his career trajectory, against Deiveson Figueiredo.

    Here's where to watch UFC 332 live streams online and from anywhere with a VPN – including a clever way to watch UFC 332 for just $1.

    Watch UFC 332 for FREE

    UFC 332 is available on the linear channel CBS which is available through a variety of cord-cutting platforms that come with free trials. YouTube TV and Fubo are two that come with free trials.

    Alternatively, UFC 332 is streaming on Paramount+ in the US, and you can access it for just $1 through Walmart+. The $1 30-day Walmart+ trial includes access to the UFC 332 broadcast at no additional cost.

    Those traveling to the UK, Canada or Australia can still access free trials thanks to NordVPN.

    Use a VPN to watch UFC 332 from anywhere

    Away from home at the moment and blocked from watching UFC on your usual subscription?

    A VPN is handy piece of software that can make your device appear as if it's back in your home country, so you can unlock your usual service. The best VPN right now? We recommend NordVPN – it does everything and comes with up to 75% off.

    🟩 NordVPN – get the world's best VPN

    Not having a VPN is like leaving your front door wide open in a busy city – anyone can walk right in and take a peek.

    TechRadar regularly reviews all the biggest and best VPN providers and NordVPN is our #1 choice.

    ✅ Up to 75% off today
    ✅ 3 extra months free
    ✅ Unlocks Paramount Plus


    Get NordVPN and stream UFC 332 from anywhere.View Deal

    It's really straightforward to use a VPN to watch UFC 332.

    1. Install the VPN of your choice. As we've said, NordVPN is our favorite.

    2. Choose the location you wish to connect to in the VPN app. For example, if you want to watch the Paramount+ stream, select 'United States' from the listed countries.

    3. Sit back and enjoy the action. Head to Paramount+ and tune into UFC 332.

    How to watch UFC 332 live stream in the US

    US flag

    Exclusive US coverage of the full UFC 332 event is on CBS and Paramount Plus. It's being headlined by Natalia Silva vs Wang Cong, which is expected to start at around 11pm ET / 8pm PT.

    The main card will be shown in its entirety on CBS for the first time, which means you can watch for free with a TV antenna or cable package.

    CBS is also available with OTT streaming packages such as Fubo, YouTube TV and DirecTV, all of which come with free trial options. You'll pay for a subscription when the trial ends.

    Paramount Plus plans start from only $8.99/month with the Essential Plan, or you can upgrade to Premium for $13.99/month (see below for more details). You can also get a Paramount Plus trial with Walmart+ for $1 using this sneaky trick we found.

    While Paramount Plus will show UFC 332 in its entirety, you can also watch the Early Prelims via UFC Fight Pass.

    Traveling outside of the US? Use a VPN to watch Paramount Plus from abroad while you're away from home.

    ▶︎ GET PARAMOUNT PLUS AND STREAM UFC 332

    A Paramount Plus subscription unlocks access to UFC events, Champions League soccer, 40,000 episodes & movies on demand all for $8.99 per month.

    Go Premium for $13.99 a month or $140 for the whole year to add SHOWTIME Originals and live CBS coverage.View Deal

    How to watch UFC 332 live stream in the UK

    UK flag

    The UFC 332 main card is available on TNT Sports 1 in the UK. It's set to begin at 2am BST in the early hours of Sunday morning.

    You can get it by adding TNT Sports to your Sky, Virgin Media or EE TV package, or pay from £25.99 per month for a HBO Max plan that includes TNT Sports.

    UFC Fight Pass subscribers can also watch the Prelims and Early Prelims.

    If you're abroad whilst the MMA live stream is on, a VPN like NordVPN can help you to access your home streaming services from anywhere.

    How to watch UFC 332 live stream in Canada

    Canada flag

    The main card of UFC 332 will be available to live stream in Canada on Citytv, which is available on most cable packages.

    You can also stream via a web browser or the Citytv app by using your TV login details, or signing up to its Citytv+ streaming platform from CA$11.99/month or $100/year after first enjoying the 7-day free trial we mentioned earlier.

    Sportsnet (and its Sportsnet+ streaming platform) and TVA will also show the event in a first, without PPV. Prices are as follows:

    ▶︎ Sportsnet+ – C$29.99/month

    ▶︎ Amazon Prime – C$9.99/month or C$99/year

    ▶︎ TVA Sports Direct – C$17.99/month or C$179.99/year

    North of the border from the US? You can use NordVPN to watch your Paramount Plus subscription like you were back at home.

    How to watch UFC 332 live stream in Australia

    Australia flag

    Sunday's Main Card at UFC 332 will be available on PPV in Australia, setting you back AU$59.95 from Foxtel Main Event or Kayo Sports Main Event.

    That means you can live stream UFC 332 via your web browser and devices like Android, iOS, Samsung TV, Apple TV, Android TV, Telstra TV and Chromecast.

    You can also catch all the Prelims (but not the Silva vs Wang main event) via Paramount+ and free-to-air Network 10.

    Downloading a VPN will help you access your subscriptions from anywhere if you're abroad when the fight is on.

    Can I watch UFC 332 for free?

    Not quite. Other than the sneaky little Walmart+ for $1 trick described above in the US, there doesn't seem to be any way to watch UFC 332 for free. It's on Paramount Plus in the US, which no longer carries a free trial. And it's a PPV in many other countries around the world.

    When does UFC 332 start?

    The UFC 332 Main Card is scheduled to begin at 9pm ET / 6pm ET on Saturday, October 3. That's 2am BST or 12pm AEDT in the UK and Australia on Sunday, October 4.

    Before that, the Early Prelims start at 5pm ET / 2pm PT / 10pm BST / 8am AEST (Sun) and the Prelims at 7pm PT / 4pm PT / 12am BST (Sun) / 9am AEST (Sun).

    Can I watch UFC 332 on my mobile?

    Yes. Most broadcasters have streaming services that you can access through mobile apps or via your phone's browser – Paramount Plus, HBO Max and Kayo Sports all have mobile apps, for example.

    You can also stay up-to-date with the latest UFC news and plays on the official social media channels on X (@ufc), Instagram (@ufc), Facebook (UFC) TikTok (@ufc) and YouTube (@ufc).

    UFC 332 full card

    Main card
    Natália Silva vs Wang Cong (Women's Flyweight)
    Deiveson Figueiredovs Payton Talbott (Bantamweight)
    King Green vs Esteban Ribovic (Lightweight)
    Roberto Soldić vs Khaos Williams (Welterweight)
    Ateba Gautier vs Roman Kopylov (Middleweight)

    Prelims
    Imanol Rodríguez vs Alden Coria (Flyweight)
    Damian Pinas vs Andrey Pulyaev (Middleweight)
    Marcus McGhee vs Bernardo Sopaj (Bantamweight)
    Anthony Wint vs Lucas Armand (Heavyweight)

    Early prelims
    Johnny Walker vs Mick Parkin (Heavyweight)
    Rafael dos Anjos vs Alexander Hernandez (Lightweight)
    Marvin Vettori vs Ismail Naurdiev (Middleweight)
    Jacobe Smith vs Bruce Whitehead (Welterweight)
    Court McGee vs Eric Nolan (Welterweight)

    We test and review VPN services in the context of legal recreational uses. For example:1. Accessing a service from another country (subject to the terms and conditions of that service).2. Protecting your online security and strengthening your online privacy when abroad.We do not support or condone the illegal or malicious use of VPN services. Consuming pirated content that is paid-for is neither endorsed nor approved by Future Publishing.

    ]]>     <![CDATA[ Jackery used a well-known EV trick to slash dimensions of its new portable power stations — CTB shrinks Explorer 2000 Plus v2 PPS by 60%, makes it 33% lighter ]]>
  • Jackery cuts power station's size without reducing the stated battery capacities
  • The Explorer 2000 Plus v2 loses 33% weight while retaining 2,048Wh capacity
  • CTB 2.0 lets Jackery integrate battery cells directly into the enclosure structure

    • Jackery has applied an automotive battery packaging technique to two new portable power stations, reducing its physical footprint without cutting the stated capacities.

    The Explorer 1000 Plus v2 and Explorer 2000 Plus v2 use a Cell-to-Body architecture that integrates battery components into their structural enclosures.

    The company said this approach cuts the Explorer 2000 Plus v2's size by 60% and its weight by 33%, and reduces the Explorer 1000 Plus v2’s size by 44% while its weight plunges by 26%, compared with their predecessors.

    CTB architecture cuts size while retaining large battery capacities

    Explorer 2000 Plus v2 stores 2,048Wh, weighs 18.8kg and measures 36.6 × 25.5 × 27.2cm, while the Explorer 1000 Plus v2 stores 1,024Wh, weighs 10.8kg and measures 31.35 × 20.1 × 23.35cm.

    "People don't want more power at the cost of bulk — they want power that fits naturally into their lives," said Brady Sun, Head of Europe at Jackery.

    "With the Explorer Plus v2 Series, we've drastically reduced size while elevating energy density, intelligence, and safety."

    The company uses CTB 2.0 to integrate cells with the enclosure, reducing unused internal volume that would otherwise require additional structural components.

    That approach is similar to battery packaging methods used in electric vehicles, where manufacturers integrate structural elements around battery cells.

    According to Jackery, it is the first portable energy storage brand globally to introduce EV-derived CTB construction into this product category.

    It also holds US and Japanese invention patents covering its earlier CTB 1.0 implementation, which used welding on both sides.

    Both models support expandable storage, allowing the 1,024Wh model to reach 11kWh and the 2,048Wh version to reach 12kWh.

    The larger model supplies 2,400W continuously, with temporary output reaching 4,800W, while the smaller unit provides 1,800W continuously.

    Large output and fast charging remain part of the package

    Both power stations come with AC outlets, two USB-C connections reaching 140W, one USB-A port, and one 12V/10A vehicle socket.

    Solar charging reaches 400W on the smaller unit and 800W on its larger counterpart, while AC charging takes 1.25 and 1.5 hours, respectively.

    Jackery also specifies emergency charging periods of 50 minutes for the 1000 Plus v2 and 80 minutes for the 2000 Plus v2.

    Both models incorporate a 10ms UPS function intended to maintain connected equipment during brief interruptions to household electricity supplies.

    Their ceramic-coated LFP cells are rated for 6,000 cycles while retaining 70% capacity, with Jackery claiming service life reaching 30 years.

    The systems can operate in temperatures as low as -20°C, while charging remains supported between -10°C and 45°C.

    Orders will open across the UK and Europe on October 14 2026 - subscribers can receive 35% discounts on selected accessories, while qualifying station and solar-panel bundles include a 102W GaN charger worth £54.99.

    Google logo on a black background next to text reading 'Click to follow TechRadar'

    ]]>     https://www.techradar.com/pro/jackery-used-a-well-known-ev-trick-to-slash-dimensions-of-its-new-portable-power-stations-ctb-shrinks-explorer-2000-plus-v2-pps-by-60-makes-it-33-lighter FJas6JiPkywWrVZAS3SbV9 Sat, 03 Oct 2026 19:20:00 +0000 false false false
    • Jackery cuts power station's size without reducing the stated battery capacities
    • The Explorer 2000 Plus v2 loses 33% weight while retaining 2,048Wh capacity
    • CTB 2.0 lets Jackery integrate battery cells directly into the enclosure structure

    Jackery has applied an automotive battery packaging technique to two new portable power stations, reducing its physical footprint without cutting the stated capacities.

    The Explorer 1000 Plus v2 and Explorer 2000 Plus v2 use a Cell-to-Body architecture that integrates battery components into their structural enclosures.

    The company said this approach cuts the Explorer 2000 Plus v2's size by 60% and its weight by 33%, and reduces the Explorer 1000 Plus v2’s size by 44% while its weight plunges by 26%, compared with their predecessors.

    CTB architecture cuts size while retaining large battery capacities

    Explorer 2000 Plus v2 stores 2,048Wh, weighs 18.8kg and measures 36.6 × 25.5 × 27.2cm, while the Explorer 1000 Plus v2 stores 1,024Wh, weighs 10.8kg and measures 31.35 × 20.1 × 23.35cm.

    "People don't want more power at the cost of bulk — they want power that fits naturally into their lives," said Brady Sun, Head of Europe at Jackery.

    "With the Explorer Plus v2 Series, we've drastically reduced size while elevating energy density, intelligence, and safety."

    The company uses CTB 2.0 to integrate cells with the enclosure, reducing unused internal volume that would otherwise require additional structural components.

    That approach is similar to battery packaging methods used in electric vehicles, where manufacturers integrate structural elements around battery cells.

    According to Jackery, it is the first portable energy storage brand globally to introduce EV-derived CTB construction into this product category.

    It also holds US and Japanese invention patents covering its earlier CTB 1.0 implementation, which used welding on both sides.

    Both models support expandable storage, allowing the 1,024Wh model to reach 11kWh and the 2,048Wh version to reach 12kWh.

    The larger model supplies 2,400W continuously, with temporary output reaching 4,800W, while the smaller unit provides 1,800W continuously.

    Large output and fast charging remain part of the package

    Both power stations come with AC outlets, two USB-C connections reaching 140W, one USB-A port, and one 12V/10A vehicle socket.

    Solar charging reaches 400W on the smaller unit and 800W on its larger counterpart, while AC charging takes 1.25 and 1.5 hours, respectively.

    Jackery also specifies emergency charging periods of 50 minutes for the 1000 Plus v2 and 80 minutes for the 2000 Plus v2.

    Both models incorporate a 10ms UPS function intended to maintain connected equipment during brief interruptions to household electricity supplies.

    Their ceramic-coated LFP cells are rated for 6,000 cycles while retaining 70% capacity, with Jackery claiming service life reaching 30 years.

    The systems can operate in temperatures as low as -20°C, while charging remains supported between -10°C and 45°C.

    Orders will open across the UK and Europe on October 14 2026 - subscribers can receive 35% discounts on selected accessories, while qualifying station and solar-panel bundles include a 102W GaN charger worth £54.99.

    Google logo on a black background next to text reading 'Click to follow TechRadar'

    ]]>     <![CDATA[ A hyperscaler wants to buy a site almost 3X bigger than Central Park in Osceola County, Florida — as its residents worry about a future surrounded by data centers ]]>
  • Residents in Osceola County, Florida, say plans for a new “hyperscale data center” will impact wildlife and water reserves
  • The area has been hit with multiple new developments over recent years, changing the traditional farmland into homes and industry
  • If accepted, the proposed 2,200-acre site would occupy an area larger than New York’s Central Park

    • A proposed giant data center is set to add to the woes of Florida residents who have been hit with multiple developments in recent years. As farmland is redeveloped for housing and jobs, the citizens of Osceola County have learned that this single development is set to dwarf them all: at over 2,000 acres, it will be larger than Central Park in New York.

    Development for the site is being offered to hyperscalers, with the property listed online from July 2026. Power is already arranged, with regional power company Duke Energy confirmed as able to supply the completed facility with the required electricity.

    Local residents already worried about expanding housing developments and outdated infrastructure radically changing the landscape of the area where they grew up have also expressed concern over the impact to local wildlife.

    Hyperscaler data center

    By zoning the 2,232 acre site specifically for a hyperscaler, the Osceola County authorities and real estate company are essentially expecting a tech giant to purchase the land. Amazon Web Services, Microsoft Azure, Google Cloud, Meta Platforms, IBM Cloud, Apple, and Oracle Cloud Infrastructure all fall into the hyperscaler category, each operating data centers on a massive scale.

    The ecological footprint of these types of development are regularly front-page news, bringing the benefit of construction jobs and local supply chain benefits alongside an immediate impact to wildlife and water. And then there are the problems with noise.

    For an area like Osceola County, where until recently comparatively little had changed for decades, the arrival of a hyperscale data center would represent the biggest change yet.

    Wildlife, infrastructure, and leaders

    Angelo Chiarelli is a local resident and conservation photographer whose work has charted the shrinking habitats around Osceola. “It's a wake-up call,” he says. “It truly is, about just this way of life of these ranchers and people like me that just come out and take photographs, like it won’t be here.”

    With other developments hitting local infrastructure (one local business owner notes it takes longer to travel around Osceola), the impact of constructing a data center is met with apprehension. Concerns about water seem to be shared by Duke Energy, too, which has highlighted that its ability to deploy energy to the site rely on the availability of “significant water resources.”

    This means it could be time for residents to take their concerns to the leaders of Osceola County. Florida law puts the decision for developments such as this in the hands of local leaders. Whether this means the residents will put pressure on the district County Commission to reject the hyperscaler development remains to be seen.

    ]]>     https://www.techradar.com/pro/a-hyperscaler-wants-to-buy-a-site-almost-3x-bigger-than-central-park-in-osceola-county-florida-as-its-residents-worry-about-a-future-surrounded-by-data-centers 3T8Nt2HwCAP3wfxqrosPm Sat, 03 Oct 2026 18:05:00 +0000 false false false
    • Residents in Osceola County, Florida, say plans for a new “hyperscale data center” will impact wildlife and water reserves
    • The area has been hit with multiple new developments over recent years, changing the traditional farmland into homes and industry
    • If accepted, the proposed 2,200-acre site would occupy an area larger than New York’s Central Park

    A proposed giant data center is set to add to the woes of Florida residents who have been hit with multiple developments in recent years. As farmland is redeveloped for housing and jobs, the citizens of Osceola County have learned that this single development is set to dwarf them all: at over 2,000 acres, it will be larger than Central Park in New York.

    Development for the site is being offered to hyperscalers, with the property listed online from July 2026. Power is already arranged, with regional power company Duke Energy confirmed as able to supply the completed facility with the required electricity.

    Local residents already worried about expanding housing developments and outdated infrastructure radically changing the landscape of the area where they grew up have also expressed concern over the impact to local wildlife.

    Hyperscaler data center

    By zoning the 2,232 acre site specifically for a hyperscaler, the Osceola County authorities and real estate company are essentially expecting a tech giant to purchase the land. Amazon Web Services, Microsoft Azure, Google Cloud, Meta Platforms, IBM Cloud, Apple, and Oracle Cloud Infrastructure all fall into the hyperscaler category, each operating data centers on a massive scale.

    The ecological footprint of these types of development are regularly front-page news, bringing the benefit of construction jobs and local supply chain benefits alongside an immediate impact to wildlife and water. And then there are the problems with noise.

    For an area like Osceola County, where until recently comparatively little had changed for decades, the arrival of a hyperscale data center would represent the biggest change yet.

    Wildlife, infrastructure, and leaders

    Angelo Chiarelli is a local resident and conservation photographer whose work has charted the shrinking habitats around Osceola. “It's a wake-up call,” he says. “It truly is, about just this way of life of these ranchers and people like me that just come out and take photographs, like it won’t be here.”

    With other developments hitting local infrastructure (one local business owner notes it takes longer to travel around Osceola), the impact of constructing a data center is met with apprehension. Concerns about water seem to be shared by Duke Energy, too, which has highlighted that its ability to deploy energy to the site rely on the availability of “significant water resources.”

    This means it could be time for residents to take their concerns to the leaders of Osceola County. Florida law puts the decision for developments such as this in the hands of local leaders. Whether this means the residents will put pressure on the district County Commission to reject the hyperscaler development remains to be seen.

    ]]>     <![CDATA[ Noble Audio FoKus Artemis review: the most hypnotic-sounding pair of headphones I’ve tested ]]> Noble Audio FoKus Artemis: two-minute review

    In Ancient Greece, Artemis was a goddess of many things: vegetation, hunting, wild creatures, childbirth… the list goes on. It’s fair to say that she was considered abundant in talent. And her moniker is not wasted on the Noble Audio FoKus Artemis: a set of wireless headphones that have far-reaching, broad talents of their own.

    The FoKus Artemis are, put simply, an exceptionally strong performing set of cans. In fact, they might be the best-sounding pair of wireless headphones I’ve used. They have a triple-driver configuration, with dynamic, balanced armature, and planar drivers, affording them all of the dynamism, precision, and speed required to showcase your favorite tracks in their best light.

    Like the best headphones around, the Artemis supply palpable yet regimented bass, beautifully detailed and textured mids, and expressive, articulate treble. But the real shining star is their excellent soundstaging. The Artemis bring forth an immense sense of space and scale, making for a highly immersive listen time after time. With aptX Lossless, LDAC, and USB-C audio, you also get high-resolution, nuanced sound that competes with the greatest headphones on the market.

    But something else that sets these headphones apart from the crowd is their granular sound control. With help from Audiodo, Noble has included personalized EQ on the Artemis, which can account for hearing loss and provide optimized audio for all users. There’s also parametric EQ and a number of presets that will suit any listener.

    The FoKus Artemis boast quite the suite of features, actually, with an effective companion app, wear detection and multi-point connectivity to give you the everyday convenience that you’d hope for at this money. ANC is here too, with a number of modes, including a transparency option. Noise cancellation here isn’t the best of the best, and the Artemis’ looser fit also means a fair few external sounds creep in now and then. But it’s still relatively effective, and will still help dull the world around you.

    Spatial audio modes, though functional, also felt a little underwhelming to me during testing, but the Artemis’ wide soundstage means you get a nice and expansive listen from the headphones anyway. Call quality is strong, though, owing to the headphones’ seven-mic array, and you get up to 55 hours of playback (35 hours with ANC on), as well as a replaceable battery, adding longevity to the headphones.

    In my view, the Artemis look great as well. Their metallic detailing, fabric headband, and textured ear cups ensure they exude all of the style and luxury you’d look for in an ultra-premium pair of headphones. There aren’t any touch controls, but the physical buttons work well, and are highly responsive. It also helps that the headphones are extremely well-fitting, and they feel comfortable to wear throughout the day.

    But here it comes: the price. The Noble Audio FoKus Artemis cost a whopping $899 / £799 (about AU$1,200). Is the price-tag justified? It really depends on your outlook. They’re a seriously advanced set of headphones, with the triple-driver set-up, personalized EQ and premium build adding a lot in terms of value. But you can get phenomenal sound for less — even the Bowers & Wilkins Px8 S2 are $100 / £170 less than these.

    Still, if you want truly stellar audio and ultra-precise sound control, then it really doesn’t get much better than the Noble Audio FoKus Artemis. They’re a wonderful pair of headphones, and if you’ve got the budget, then they’re pretty easy for me to recommend. But for some slightly cheaper yet excellent alternatives, be sure to head down to the ‘also consider’ section.

    Noble Audio FoKus Artemis

    (Image credit: Future)

    Noble Audio FoKus Artemis review: price & release date

    • Priced at $899 / £799 (about AU$1,200)
    • Released in August 2026

    The Noble Audio FoKus Artemis started shipping in August 2026, although I got to try them back in June, when the headphones were showcased at High End Vienna 2026. The Artemis are an ultra-premium pair of wireless headphones, and as a result, they carry a very hefty asking price. They’ll typically set you back $899 / £799 (about AU$1,200).

    Sure, some rivals, like the Bang & Olufsen Beoplay H100 and Focal Bathys MG, will set you back even further, but I won’t pretend that the Artemis aren’t a huge investment. And you can get exceptional sounding headphones for considerably less — for example, the Bowers & Wilkins Px8 S2 are a good $100 / £170 less than the Artemis at $799 / £629 / AU$1,299.

    Noble Audio FoKus Artemis review: specs

    Drivers

    1x dynamic, 1x balanced armature, 1x planar

    Active noise cancellation

    Yes

    Battery life

    55 hours (35 hours with ANC on)

    Weight

    324g

    Connectivity

    Bluetooth 6.0, USB-C

    Frequency range

    10Hz-40kHz

    Waterproofing

    IP52

    Noble Audio FoKus Artemis

    (Image credit: Future)

    Noble Audio FoKus Artemis review: features

    • Personal EQ can account for hearing loss
    • Strong battery life of up to 55 hours
    • ANC is acceptable, rather than great

    Noble Audio has put a ton of thought and effort into the feature-set of the FoKus Artemis, and this results in a great user experience.

    Where to start? Well, I think the most interesting function is the personalized EQ, which offers surprising depth. Noble Audio partnered with Swedish firm Audiodo to implement a hearing test on the Artemis, meaning you can unlock a sound that suits you — it even accounts for hearing loss. Using Noble’s app, you’ll be asked to listen to a set of prompts, which test your hearing across the frequency range in each ear, and you’ll get a custom EQ that provides bespoke, optimized audio.

    This works really well, and can be toggled on or off. There are also a number of presets and a parametric equalizer if you want more granular control. Few headphones offer this attention to detail, and even though I loved the default tuning on the Artemis, they really can sound however you want them to.

    There are also some spatial audio modes, with a subtle and immersive option. I didn’t love these so much — I found that tracks sounded less clear and concise, and given that the Artemis whip up an impressive sense of space anyway, I kept this off.

    Let’s talk about one of the most important features next, ANC. The Artemis have a seven-microphone system with multiple noise-cancelling modes, including low, mid, and strong ANC and a transparency mode.

    So, how good is noise-cancellation with the Artemis? Well, it’s decent. I used them across a huge range of environments: flights, trains, when out on walks, in the office, and at home. When using the strongest mode, I found that they eliminated sounds like typing and light chatter nicely, but more intensive stuff, like a plane’s engine running and passing-by traffic, tended to seep in quite easily. In part, this comes down to the more relaxed fit and clamping on the Artemis, but I did expect a bit more in terms of noise-crushing from these cans, given their price.

    Something the mics handle very well, though, is calls. Whenever I made a video or voice call, people on the other end of the line reported that my speech was clear, and never tinny or obscured. This was also the case when I made some recordings and listened back.

    The Artemis also impressed me a fair bit in terms of battery life. They offer up to 55 hours of playback with ANC off, and 35 hours. That’s slightly above the standard 30 hours that a lot of premium models offer, and means you’ll be able to listen for days on-end without having to charge the Artemis at all. The battery is also user-replaceable, which is becoming more common with EU legislation making this a requirement for portable devices.

    Controlling the Artemis is also pretty straightforward. They feature traditional button controls, favored by a lot of audiophiles for their reliability. Personally, I’m a fan of touch controls (when done right), but this is omitted on the Artemis. Something that does feature, though, is wear detection and this is highly responsive and accurate — it can be toggled off if you’d prefer. Finally, the app is incredibly easy to use and well-laid out. I’ve seen some reports of iOS users having issues, but on my Android phone, the companion software worked perfectly.

    • Features score: 4/5

    Noble Audio FoKus Artemis

    (Image credit: Future)

    Noble Audio FoKus Artemis review: sound quality

    • Triple driver configurations delivers exceptional balance across the frequency range
    • Wide soundstage creates a hypnotic listening experience
    • Top-tier codec support and USB-C audio passthrough

    It may not surprise you to find out that the Noble Audio FoKus Artemis are a truly spectacular-sounding pair of wireless headphones. In fact, they’re up there with some of the best performers I’ve tested here at TechRadar.

    This model stands out from the crowd due to one specific design choice: its triple driver configuration. Dynamic drivers are great for handling the bass and mids, but balanced armature and planar drivers enable the Artemis to deliver enhanced precision, speed, and fidelity. But what’s the actual listening experience like?

    Well, the most striking thing about the Artemis for me is their ability to conjure up a tremendously spacious, wide sound. For closed back, wireless headphones, the scale on offer is striking, and I was always treated to an almost hypnotic experience, no matter what genre I threw on.

    In What We Got by Midas Field and Marjin Jensen, pumping bass hit with great impact and dynamism, without ever shrouding vocals in the mid-range or percussion up high. The speed and responsiveness of the low-end is excellent, and extends nice and low, meaning that even the darkest sounds in the frequency range sound full-bodied and controlled. Drums in the treble range were also precise and expressive without sounding overly bright, helping the Artemis to perfectly capture the energy of the track.

    Switching over to Miracles by Change, and the Artemis continue to impress. Electric guitars were perfectly weighted in the mix, and sounded beautifully textured. They were also expertly separated from emotive vocals, which were in turn given plenty of room to express themselves. Subtle percussive elements were also perfectly audible, and the wide soundstage opened up a highly immersive listening experience.

    As my phone supports both LDAC and aptX, I was able to get a highly detailed listen from the FoKus Artemis. USB-C audio passthrough also opens up genuine lossless playback, and with this, the Artemis offer up a phenomenally revealing, layered, and nuanced sound that helps to justify their high asking price.

    • Sound quality score: 5/5

    Noble Audio FoKus Artemis

    (Image credit: Future)

    Noble Audio FoKus Artemis review: design

    • Stunning design with fabric headband and metallic detailing
    • Very comfortable in use, though looser fit has its downsides
    • IP52 dust and waterproof rating

    If I could use one word to describe the look of the Noble Audio FoKus Artemis, it would be ‘striking’. The silver metallic detailing on the earcups is bold and eye-catching, and truly exudes a sense of luxury. The fabric headband is also built to a great standard, and the plush earcups appear textured and stylish.

    There are a few plastic elements on the Artemis, and you could argue that some parts — like the buttons and carry case — don’t exactly look the most premium. But overall I think that the Artemis are a great-looking pair of headphones. They’re also relatively flat and low-profile, which I really like — I’ve never been a fan of the bulkier look of headphones like the Sony WH-1000XM6.

    On top of this, the Artemis are amazingly comfortable in-use. I happily kept them on for hours upon hours when making a long train journey, and never found them to be uncomfortable or overbearing. On my (relatively large) head, I’d say that the Artemis fall on the looser side, fit-wise. While this ensures great comfort, it could sometimes mean that external noises crept in a bit too easily — combined with the fairly middling ANC, this means that the Artemis fail to challenge the gods of the ANC domain, such as Bose and Sony.

    Something that’s good to see, though, is that the Artemis have an IP rating. Sure, it’s nothing ground-breaking at IP52 — meaning they’re protected against dust ingress and water sprays — but very few over-ears actually display a rating, so kudos to Noble Audio for this.

    • Design score: 4.5/5

    Noble Audio FoKus Artemis

    (Image credit: Future)

    Noble Audio FoKus Artemis review: value

    • Undoubtedly expensive
    • But the exemplary sound quality helps to justify this
    • Still, exceptional performers are available for less

    Look, the Noble Audio FoKus Artemis are a very expensive pair of wireless headphones. At $899 / £799 (about AU$1,200), they sit right up there with models like the Focal Bathys MG, and even exceed the excellent Bowers & Wilkins Px8 S2 in cost.

    But are they really worth it? It honestly depends. If you want some of the best-sounding wireless cans on the market, then you’ll get just that with the Artemis. I’m not sure I’ve experienced any wireless headphones that outperform these. Their spacious, nuanced sound is a delight, and has made me never want to take them off. They also look great and offer a real sense of luxury, while features like the personalized EQ are rarely seen elsewhere.

    Still, I can’t help but feel that their ANC could be better for the price, and you can still get incredible sound for a fair bit less with a luxury design from the Px8 S2. As a result, I’d consider the Artemis to be good value if you’re all in on sound, but perhaps consider the options in the ‘also consider’ section if you want to spend a little less.

    • Value score: 3.5/5

    Noble Audio FoKus Artemis

    (Image credit: Future)

    Should I buy the Noble Audio FoKus Artemis?

    Attribute

    Notes

    Score

    Features

    Great EQ options, good call quality and app, but ANC could be better.

    4/5

    Sound quality

    Hypnotic, spacious sound with excellent balance across the frequency range.

    5/5

    Design

    Fantastic looks, comfortable fit, but looser fit can let quite a lot of sound in.

    4.5/5

    Value

    Top-tier sound quality and great features, but you can still get amazing quality for less.

    3.5/5

    Buy them if…

    You want top-class wireless audio
    The reason that the Artemis net such a high score from me is that their sound quality is absolutely top-tier. You get balanced sound, with hard-hitting yet controlled bass, rich and detailed mids, and articulate, snappy treble, largely thanks to the headphones’ ingenious triple-driver configuration.

    You’re looking for granular sound control
    With personalized EQ that accounts for hearing loss, a parametric ten-band equalizer, and a few presets for good measure, the Artemis are some of the most accomplished headphones on the market when it comes to sound customization.

    Don’t buy them if…

    You want class-leading ANC
    Perhaps my biggest criticism of the Artemis is that their ANC isn’t the best. Will they dull your surroundings effectively? Sure. But will they give you that silence-inducing ANC that cans like the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Gen 2 provide? Not quite.

    You want the ultimate value-for-money option
    At full-price, the Artemis are eye-wateringly expensive. And while I think they sound absolutely spectacular, and I commend their expansive EQ options, you can still get incredible-sounding headphones for considerably less — see the Px8 S2 below.

    Noble Audio FoKus Artemis review: also consider

    Noble Audio FoKus Artemis

    Bowers & Wilkins Px8 S2

    AirPods Max 2

    Price

    $899 / £799 (about AU$1,200)

    $799 / £629 / AU$1,299

    $549 / £499 / AU$999

    Drivers

    1x dynamic, 1x balanced armature, 1x planar

    2 x 40mm dynamic full-range carbon cone

    Apple-designed dynamic driver with new 'custom high dynamic range amplifier'

    Active noise cancellation

    Yes

    Yes

    Yes

    Battery life

    55 hours (35 hours with ANC on)

    30 hours (ANC on)

    20 hours (ANC on)

    Weight

    324g

    310g

    386.2g

    Connectivity

    Bluetooth 6.0, USB-C

    Bluetooth 5.3, USB-C

    Bluetooth 5.3, USB-C

    Frequency range

    10Hz-40kHz

    10Hz-30kHz

    Not stated

    Bowers & Wilkins Px8 S2
    For the money, the Bowers & Wilkins Px8 S2 are easily some of the best-sounding wireless headphones on the market. But they also offer excellent build quality, a strong suite of features, and solid noise cancelling. Like the Artemis, they’re pretty pricey, but we still think they’re well-worth the investment. Read our full Bowers & Wilkins Px8 S2 review.

    AirPods Max 2
    Want incredibly spacious sound at a slightly easier-to-stomach price? Then the Apple AirPods Max 2 might be exactly what you’re looking for. They provide stronger ANC than the FoKus Artemis, are phenomenally stylish, and, of course, sound great too. You’ll need an iOS device to get the best out of their feature-set, and their battery life is certainly on the low side, but they’re still a great pair of over-ears. Read our full AirPods Max 2 review.

    How I tested the Noble Audio FoKus Artemis

    Noble Audio FoKus Artemis

    (Image credit: Future)
    • Tested for one month
    • Used on flights, trains, on walks, and in the office
    • Mainly streamed tunes over Tidal

    I spent one month testing the Noble Audio FoKus Artemis, using them as my primary set of headphones. I used them on flights, trains, and buses, but also when out on walks, working at the office, or relaxing at home. Using them in such a range of environments helped me to fully understand the effectiveness of their ANC capabilities.

    When listening to music, I typically streamed tunes over Tidal on my Xiaomi 17 phone, which supports aptX and LDAC codecs, but I also dipped into Spotify from time to time. As always, I sifted through the TechRadar reference playlist when testing, but I also listened to countless hours of music from my personal library.

    More generally, I’ve spent years testing audio gear here at TechRadar, including everything from wired IEMs like the Beyerdynamic DT 30 IE to party speakers such as the Marshall Bromley 750. I’ve also tested a whole host of premium headphones, including the Sony 1000X The Collexion and Bang & Olufsen H100, so I know exactly what a pair of headphones needs to stand out in a highly competitive market.

    ]]>     https://www.techradar.com/audio/wireless-headphones/noble-audio-fokus-artemis-review jABvnNS3S3WhdTPDXofmMX Sat, 03 Oct 2026 18:00:00 +0000 false false false

    Noble Audio FoKus Artemis: two-minute review

    In Ancient Greece, Artemis was a goddess of many things: vegetation, hunting, wild creatures, childbirth… the list goes on. It’s fair to say that she was considered abundant in talent. And her moniker is not wasted on the Noble Audio FoKus Artemis: a set of wireless headphones that have far-reaching, broad talents of their own.

    The FoKus Artemis are, put simply, an exceptionally strong performing set of cans. In fact, they might be the best-sounding pair of wireless headphones I’ve used. They have a triple-driver configuration, with dynamic, balanced armature, and planar drivers, affording them all of the dynamism, precision, and speed required to showcase your favorite tracks in their best light.

    Like the best headphones around, the Artemis supply palpable yet regimented bass, beautifully detailed and textured mids, and expressive, articulate treble. But the real shining star is their excellent soundstaging. The Artemis bring forth an immense sense of space and scale, making for a highly immersive listen time after time. With aptX Lossless, LDAC, and USB-C audio, you also get high-resolution, nuanced sound that competes with the greatest headphones on the market.

    But something else that sets these headphones apart from the crowd is their granular sound control. With help from Audiodo, Noble has included personalized EQ on the Artemis, which can account for hearing loss and provide optimized audio for all users. There’s also parametric EQ and a number of presets that will suit any listener.

    The FoKus Artemis boast quite the suite of features, actually, with an effective companion app, wear detection and multi-point connectivity to give you the everyday convenience that you’d hope for at this money. ANC is here too, with a number of modes, including a transparency option. Noise cancellation here isn’t the best of the best, and the Artemis’ looser fit also means a fair few external sounds creep in now and then. But it’s still relatively effective, and will still help dull the world around you.

    Spatial audio modes, though functional, also felt a little underwhelming to me during testing, but the Artemis’ wide soundstage means you get a nice and expansive listen from the headphones anyway. Call quality is strong, though, owing to the headphones’ seven-mic array, and you get up to 55 hours of playback (35 hours with ANC on), as well as a replaceable battery, adding longevity to the headphones.

    In my view, the Artemis look great as well. Their metallic detailing, fabric headband, and textured ear cups ensure they exude all of the style and luxury you’d look for in an ultra-premium pair of headphones. There aren’t any touch controls, but the physical buttons work well, and are highly responsive. It also helps that the headphones are extremely well-fitting, and they feel comfortable to wear throughout the day.

    But here it comes: the price. The Noble Audio FoKus Artemis cost a whopping $899 / £799 (about AU$1,200). Is the price-tag justified? It really depends on your outlook. They’re a seriously advanced set of headphones, with the triple-driver set-up, personalized EQ and premium build adding a lot in terms of value. But you can get phenomenal sound for less — even the Bowers & Wilkins Px8 S2 are $100 / £170 less than these.

    Still, if you want truly stellar audio and ultra-precise sound control, then it really doesn’t get much better than the Noble Audio FoKus Artemis. They’re a wonderful pair of headphones, and if you’ve got the budget, then they’re pretty easy for me to recommend. But for some slightly cheaper yet excellent alternatives, be sure to head down to the ‘also consider’ section.

    Noble Audio FoKus Artemis

    (Image credit: Future)

    Noble Audio FoKus Artemis review: price & release date

    • Priced at $899 / £799 (about AU$1,200)
    • Released in August 2026

    The Noble Audio FoKus Artemis started shipping in August 2026, although I got to try them back in June, when the headphones were showcased at High End Vienna 2026. The Artemis are an ultra-premium pair of wireless headphones, and as a result, they carry a very hefty asking price. They’ll typically set you back $899 / £799 (about AU$1,200).

    Sure, some rivals, like the Bang & Olufsen Beoplay H100 and Focal Bathys MG, will set you back even further, but I won’t pretend that the Artemis aren’t a huge investment. And you can get exceptional sounding headphones for considerably less — for example, the Bowers & Wilkins Px8 S2 are a good $100 / £170 less than the Artemis at $799 / £629 / AU$1,299.

    Noble Audio FoKus Artemis review: specs

    Drivers

    1x dynamic, 1x balanced armature, 1x planar

    Active noise cancellation

    Yes

    Battery life

    55 hours (35 hours with ANC on)

    Weight

    324g

    Connectivity

    Bluetooth 6.0, USB-C

    Frequency range

    10Hz-40kHz

    Waterproofing

    IP52

    Noble Audio FoKus Artemis

    (Image credit: Future)

    Noble Audio FoKus Artemis review: features

    • Personal EQ can account for hearing loss
    • Strong battery life of up to 55 hours
    • ANC is acceptable, rather than great

    Noble Audio has put a ton of thought and effort into the feature-set of the FoKus Artemis, and this results in a great user experience.

    Where to start? Well, I think the most interesting function is the personalized EQ, which offers surprising depth. Noble Audio partnered with Swedish firm Audiodo to implement a hearing test on the Artemis, meaning you can unlock a sound that suits you — it even accounts for hearing loss. Using Noble’s app, you’ll be asked to listen to a set of prompts, which test your hearing across the frequency range in each ear, and you’ll get a custom EQ that provides bespoke, optimized audio.

    This works really well, and can be toggled on or off. There are also a number of presets and a parametric equalizer if you want more granular control. Few headphones offer this attention to detail, and even though I loved the default tuning on the Artemis, they really can sound however you want them to.

    There are also some spatial audio modes, with a subtle and immersive option. I didn’t love these so much — I found that tracks sounded less clear and concise, and given that the Artemis whip up an impressive sense of space anyway, I kept this off.

    Let’s talk about one of the most important features next, ANC. The Artemis have a seven-microphone system with multiple noise-cancelling modes, including low, mid, and strong ANC and a transparency mode.

    So, how good is noise-cancellation with the Artemis? Well, it’s decent. I used them across a huge range of environments: flights, trains, when out on walks, in the office, and at home. When using the strongest mode, I found that they eliminated sounds like typing and light chatter nicely, but more intensive stuff, like a plane’s engine running and passing-by traffic, tended to seep in quite easily. In part, this comes down to the more relaxed fit and clamping on the Artemis, but I did expect a bit more in terms of noise-crushing from these cans, given their price.

    Something the mics handle very well, though, is calls. Whenever I made a video or voice call, people on the other end of the line reported that my speech was clear, and never tinny or obscured. This was also the case when I made some recordings and listened back.

    The Artemis also impressed me a fair bit in terms of battery life. They offer up to 55 hours of playback with ANC off, and 35 hours. That’s slightly above the standard 30 hours that a lot of premium models offer, and means you’ll be able to listen for days on-end without having to charge the Artemis at all. The battery is also user-replaceable, which is becoming more common with EU legislation making this a requirement for portable devices.

    Controlling the Artemis is also pretty straightforward. They feature traditional button controls, favored by a lot of audiophiles for their reliability. Personally, I’m a fan of touch controls (when done right), but this is omitted on the Artemis. Something that does feature, though, is wear detection and this is highly responsive and accurate — it can be toggled off if you’d prefer. Finally, the app is incredibly easy to use and well-laid out. I’ve seen some reports of iOS users having issues, but on my Android phone, the companion software worked perfectly.

    • Features score: 4/5

    Noble Audio FoKus Artemis

    (Image credit: Future)

    Noble Audio FoKus Artemis review: sound quality

    • Triple driver configurations delivers exceptional balance across the frequency range
    • Wide soundstage creates a hypnotic listening experience
    • Top-tier codec support and USB-C audio passthrough

    It may not surprise you to find out that the Noble Audio FoKus Artemis are a truly spectacular-sounding pair of wireless headphones. In fact, they’re up there with some of the best performers I’ve tested here at TechRadar.

    This model stands out from the crowd due to one specific design choice: its triple driver configuration. Dynamic drivers are great for handling the bass and mids, but balanced armature and planar drivers enable the Artemis to deliver enhanced precision, speed, and fidelity. But what’s the actual listening experience like?

    Well, the most striking thing about the Artemis for me is their ability to conjure up a tremendously spacious, wide sound. For closed back, wireless headphones, the scale on offer is striking, and I was always treated to an almost hypnotic experience, no matter what genre I threw on.

    In What We Got by Midas Field and Marjin Jensen, pumping bass hit with great impact and dynamism, without ever shrouding vocals in the mid-range or percussion up high. The speed and responsiveness of the low-end is excellent, and extends nice and low, meaning that even the darkest sounds in the frequency range sound full-bodied and controlled. Drums in the treble range were also precise and expressive without sounding overly bright, helping the Artemis to perfectly capture the energy of the track.

    Switching over to Miracles by Change, and the Artemis continue to impress. Electric guitars were perfectly weighted in the mix, and sounded beautifully textured. They were also expertly separated from emotive vocals, which were in turn given plenty of room to express themselves. Subtle percussive elements were also perfectly audible, and the wide soundstage opened up a highly immersive listening experience.

    As my phone supports both LDAC and aptX, I was able to get a highly detailed listen from the FoKus Artemis. USB-C audio passthrough also opens up genuine lossless playback, and with this, the Artemis offer up a phenomenally revealing, layered, and nuanced sound that helps to justify their high asking price.

    • Sound quality score: 5/5

    Noble Audio FoKus Artemis

    (Image credit: Future)

    Noble Audio FoKus Artemis review: design

    • Stunning design with fabric headband and metallic detailing
    • Very comfortable in use, though looser fit has its downsides
    • IP52 dust and waterproof rating

    If I could use one word to describe the look of the Noble Audio FoKus Artemis, it would be ‘striking’. The silver metallic detailing on the earcups is bold and eye-catching, and truly exudes a sense of luxury. The fabric headband is also built to a great standard, and the plush earcups appear textured and stylish.

    There are a few plastic elements on the Artemis, and you could argue that some parts — like the buttons and carry case — don’t exactly look the most premium. But overall I think that the Artemis are a great-looking pair of headphones. They’re also relatively flat and low-profile, which I really like — I’ve never been a fan of the bulkier look of headphones like the Sony WH-1000XM6.

    On top of this, the Artemis are amazingly comfortable in-use. I happily kept them on for hours upon hours when making a long train journey, and never found them to be uncomfortable or overbearing. On my (relatively large) head, I’d say that the Artemis fall on the looser side, fit-wise. While this ensures great comfort, it could sometimes mean that external noises crept in a bit too easily — combined with the fairly middling ANC, this means that the Artemis fail to challenge the gods of the ANC domain, such as Bose and Sony.

    Something that’s good to see, though, is that the Artemis have an IP rating. Sure, it’s nothing ground-breaking at IP52 — meaning they’re protected against dust ingress and water sprays — but very few over-ears actually display a rating, so kudos to Noble Audio for this.

    • Design score: 4.5/5

    Noble Audio FoKus Artemis

    (Image credit: Future)

    Noble Audio FoKus Artemis review: value

    • Undoubtedly expensive
    • But the exemplary sound quality helps to justify this
    • Still, exceptional performers are available for less

    Look, the Noble Audio FoKus Artemis are a very expensive pair of wireless headphones. At $899 / £799 (about AU$1,200), they sit right up there with models like the Focal Bathys MG, and even exceed the excellent Bowers & Wilkins Px8 S2 in cost.

    But are they really worth it? It honestly depends. If you want some of the best-sounding wireless cans on the market, then you’ll get just that with the Artemis. I’m not sure I’ve experienced any wireless headphones that outperform these. Their spacious, nuanced sound is a delight, and has made me never want to take them off. They also look great and offer a real sense of luxury, while features like the personalized EQ are rarely seen elsewhere.

    Still, I can’t help but feel that their ANC could be better for the price, and you can still get incredible sound for a fair bit less with a luxury design from the Px8 S2. As a result, I’d consider the Artemis to be good value if you’re all in on sound, but perhaps consider the options in the ‘also consider’ section if you want to spend a little less.

    • Value score: 3.5/5

    Noble Audio FoKus Artemis

    (Image credit: Future)

    Should I buy the Noble Audio FoKus Artemis?

    Attribute

    Notes

    Score

    Features

    Great EQ options, good call quality and app, but ANC could be better.

    4/5

    Sound quality

    Hypnotic, spacious sound with excellent balance across the frequency range.

    5/5

    Design

    Fantastic looks, comfortable fit, but looser fit can let quite a lot of sound in.

    4.5/5

    Value

    Top-tier sound quality and great features, but you can still get amazing quality for less.

    3.5/5

    Buy them if…

    You want top-class wireless audio
    The reason that the Artemis net such a high score from me is that their sound quality is absolutely top-tier. You get balanced sound, with hard-hitting yet controlled bass, rich and detailed mids, and articulate, snappy treble, largely thanks to the headphones’ ingenious triple-driver configuration.

    You’re looking for granular sound control
    With personalized EQ that accounts for hearing loss, a parametric ten-band equalizer, and a few presets for good measure, the Artemis are some of the most accomplished headphones on the market when it comes to sound customization.

    Don’t buy them if…

    You want class-leading ANC
    Perhaps my biggest criticism of the Artemis is that their ANC isn’t the best. Will they dull your surroundings effectively? Sure. But will they give you that silence-inducing ANC that cans like the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Gen 2 provide? Not quite.

    You want the ultimate value-for-money option
    At full-price, the Artemis are eye-wateringly expensive. And while I think they sound absolutely spectacular, and I commend their expansive EQ options, you can still get incredible-sounding headphones for considerably less — see the Px8 S2 below.

    Noble Audio FoKus Artemis review: also consider

    Noble Audio FoKus Artemis

    Bowers & Wilkins Px8 S2

    AirPods Max 2

    Price

    $899 / £799 (about AU$1,200)

    $799 / £629 / AU$1,299

    $549 / £499 / AU$999

    Drivers

    1x dynamic, 1x balanced armature, 1x planar

    2 x 40mm dynamic full-range carbon cone

    Apple-designed dynamic driver with new 'custom high dynamic range amplifier'

    Active noise cancellation

    Yes

    Yes

    Yes

    Battery life

    55 hours (35 hours with ANC on)

    30 hours (ANC on)

    20 hours (ANC on)

    Weight

    324g

    310g

    386.2g

    Connectivity

    Bluetooth 6.0, USB-C

    Bluetooth 5.3, USB-C

    Bluetooth 5.3, USB-C

    Frequency range

    10Hz-40kHz

    10Hz-30kHz

    Not stated

    Bowers & Wilkins Px8 S2
    For the money, the Bowers & Wilkins Px8 S2 are easily some of the best-sounding wireless headphones on the market. But they also offer excellent build quality, a strong suite of features, and solid noise cancelling. Like the Artemis, they’re pretty pricey, but we still think they’re well-worth the investment. Read our full Bowers & Wilkins Px8 S2 review.

    AirPods Max 2
    Want incredibly spacious sound at a slightly easier-to-stomach price? Then the Apple AirPods Max 2 might be exactly what you’re looking for. They provide stronger ANC than the FoKus Artemis, are phenomenally stylish, and, of course, sound great too. You’ll need an iOS device to get the best out of their feature-set, and their battery life is certainly on the low side, but they’re still a great pair of over-ears. Read our full AirPods Max 2 review.

    How I tested the Noble Audio FoKus Artemis

    Noble Audio FoKus Artemis

    (Image credit: Future)
    • Tested for one month
    • Used on flights, trains, on walks, and in the office
    • Mainly streamed tunes over Tidal

    I spent one month testing the Noble Audio FoKus Artemis, using them as my primary set of headphones. I used them on flights, trains, and buses, but also when out on walks, working at the office, or relaxing at home. Using them in such a range of environments helped me to fully understand the effectiveness of their ANC capabilities.

    When listening to music, I typically streamed tunes over Tidal on my Xiaomi 17 phone, which supports aptX and LDAC codecs, but I also dipped into Spotify from time to time. As always, I sifted through the TechRadar reference playlist when testing, but I also listened to countless hours of music from my personal library.

    More generally, I’ve spent years testing audio gear here at TechRadar, including everything from wired IEMs like the Beyerdynamic DT 30 IE to party speakers such as the Marshall Bromley 750. I’ve also tested a whole host of premium headphones, including the Sony 1000X The Collexion and Bang & Olufsen H100, so I know exactly what a pair of headphones needs to stand out in a highly competitive market.

    ]]>     <![CDATA[ iPhone 18 Pro Max vs Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra: which should you choose? ]]>
    Apple
    iPhone 18 Pro Max

    The iPhone 18 Pro Max has a huge battery, a useful variable aperture feature in its camera, and top-end specs across the board. But it's also extremely expensive and lacks some of the extras you get with the S26 Ultra (MagSafe notwithstanding).

    Pros

    • Useful variable aperture
    • Outstanding battery life
    • Very powerful

    Cons

    • Costs a lot
    • Lacks Samsung's stylus
    • No Privacy Display
    Samsung
    Galaxy S26 Ultra

    The Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra has top-tier specs paired with all sorts of extra features, including a bundled stylus and Privacy Display. But there's no variable aperture or magnetic charging here, and the battery is stuck at 5,000mAh.

    Pros

    • Unique Privacy Display
    • Powerful chipset
    • Phenomenal cameras

    Cons

    • No MagSafe-style system
    • No variable aperture
    • Expensive

    The iPhone 18 Pro Max and Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra are the top non-foldable phones from Apple and Samsung, respectively. They both feature top-tier chipsets, big, beautiful screens, and several capable cameras — and they also cost a lot as a result.

    But while, superficially, these two phones have a lot in common, they are, in many ways, quite different, so if you’re deciding between them in your search for the best phone of 2026, there are several factors to consider.

    Below, then, we’ve detailed the specs and features of the iPhone 18 Pro Max and Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra to give you a clearer idea of how they compare.

    iPhone 18 Pro Max vs Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra: specs comparison

    Before we look closely at the key features of these two phones, here's how they stack up in terms of specs:

    iPhone 18 Pro Max

    Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra

    Dimensions:

    163.4 x 78 x 8.8mm

    163.6 x 78.1 x 7.9mm

    Weight:

    249g

    214g

    Display:

    6.9-inch Super Retina XDR OLED

    6.9-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X

    Refresh rate:

    1Hz–120Hz

    1Hz–120Hz

    Peak brightness:

    3,000 nits

    2,600 nits

    Chipset:

    A20 Pro

    Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5

    RAM:

    12GB

    12GB / 16GB

    Rear cameras:

    48MP main, 48MP ultra-wide, 48MP telephoto

    200MP main, 50MP ultra-wide, 10MP + 50MP telephoto

    Front camera:

    18MP

    12MP

    Battery:

    5,567mAh (eSIM-only) / 5,391mAh (physical SIM)

    5,000mAh

    Charging:

    Fast wired (60W unofficially), 25W wireless

    60W wired, 25W wireless

    Storage:

    256GB / 512GB / 1TB / 2TB

    256GB / 512GB / 1TB

    iPhone 18 Pro Max vs Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra: price and availability

    Apple iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max Review
    The iPhone 18 Pro MaxFuture/Jacob Krol
    Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra REVIEW
    The Samsung Galaxy S26 UltraLance Ulanoff / Future

    The iPhone 18 Pro Max was launched in September 2026 and is now available globally, while the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra landed in February 2026 and is also now widely available across the world.

    For pricing, the iPhone 18 Pro Max starts at $1,299 / £1,299 / AU$2,299, for which you get 256GB of storage. There are other options too, though, including $1,499 / £1,499 / AU$2,699 for 512GB, $1,899 / £1,899 / AU$3,499 for 1TB, and $2,499 / £2,499 / AU$4,699 for 2TB.

    The Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra will set you back $1,299.99 / £1,279 / AU$2,199 for a 256GB model, $1,499.99 / £1,449 / AU$2,499 for 512GB, or $1,799.99 / £1,699 / AU$2,649 for 1TB.

    So their starting prices are either similar or identical, depending on where you are, but as you move up the storage capacities, the gulf in price widens, with the iPhone 18 Pro Max being the more expensive model — and that’s before you even get to its 2TB configuration, which isn’t a capacity that's available for the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra.

    iPhone 18 Pro Max pricing

    Storage

    US price

    UK price

    AU price

    256GB

    $1,299

    £1,299

    AU$2,299

    512GB

    $1,499

    £1,499

    AU$2,699

    1TB

    $1,899

    £1,899

    AU$3,499

    2TB

    $2,499

    £2,499

    AU$4,699

    Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra pricing

    Storage

    US price

    UK price

    AU price

    256GB

    $1,299.99

    £1,279

    AU$2,199

    512GB

    $1,499.99

    £1,449

    AU$2,499

    1TB

    $1,799.99

    £1,699

    AU$2,649

    iPhone 18 Pro Max vs Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra: design

    Apple iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max Review
    The iPhone 18 Pro MaxFuture/Jacob Krol
    Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra REVIEW
    The Samsung Galaxy S26 UltraLance Ulanoff / Future

    The iPhone 18 Pro Max has a similar design to the iPhone 17 Pro Max, with a large camera island on the back (housing three lenses) and a Dynamic Island cut-out in the screen — though the latter has shrunk since the previous model.

    The frame is made of aluminum, and the back has an aluminum section and a glass part. The phone is also water-resistant to depths of six meters for up to 30 minutes, and it measures 163.4 x 78 x 8.8mm and weighs 249g.

    The Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra has a slightly more angular design with less curvy corners, but it too has a large camera block on the back — though it’s arranged vertically, rather than horizontally as on the iPhone.

    The Galaxy S26 Ultra also has a smaller punch-hole cut-out on its screen, and it uses aluminum for the frame and glass for the back. It has the same water resistance rating as the iPhone 18 Pro Max — namely IP68 — but it's only actually tested for depths of up to 1.5 meters for 30 minutes.

    The Ultra comes in at 163.6 x 78.1 x 7.9mm and weighs 214g, so it’s actually lighter and slimmer than the iPhone 18 Pro Max — despite finding room for a slot to house its included S Pen Stylus.

    Finally, their colors also differ, with the iPhone 18 Pro Max being sold in Black, Silver, Glacier, and Burgundy shades, while the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra is available in Cobalt Violet, Sky Blue, Black, White, Silver Shadow, and Pink Gold.

    In our iPhone 18 Pro Max review, we described Burgundy and Glacier as being “two fantastic new colors”, but noted that little else had visually changed since the previous model, the iPhone 17 Pro.

    In our Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra review, we similarly noted that it’s an “incremental update that slims the phone down, makes it lighter, and just a little bit softer around the edges.”

    iPhone 18 Pro Max vs Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra: display

    Apple iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max Review
    The iPhone 18 Pro MaxFuture/Jacob Krol
    Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra REVIEW
    The Samsung Galaxy S26 UltraLance Ulanoff / Future

    The iPhone 18 Pro Max has a 6.9-inch 1320 x 2868 OLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, a 3,000-nit peak brightness, and around 460 pixels per inch.

    The Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra has a 6.9-inch 1440 x 3120 AMOLED screen with a 120Hz refresh rate, a 2,600-nit peak brightness, and roughly 500 pixels per inch.

    So, the two phones have the same size screens, the same refresh rates, and both use OLED displays, but Samsung’s phone has a marginally higher pixel density, while Apple’s has a slightly higher peak brightness.

    In our reviews, we praised both displays highly, saying that the iPhone 18 Pro Max’s was “punchy, sharp, and smooth”, and the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra’s was “a fantastic 6.9-inch AMOLED that makes every image pop.”

    In terms of their screen specs and quality, then, there’s little to choose between them, but the Galaxy S26 Ultra has a trick up its sleeve in the form of Privacy Display — a feature that blanks out some or all of the screen when not viewed front-on, so people can’t as easily snoop. This is a great feature that our reviewer called “a one-of-a-kind innovation that actually does what it promises.” The iPhone 18 Pro Max has no such feature.

    iPhone 18 Pro Max vs Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra: cameras

    Apple iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max Review
    The iPhone 18 Pro MaxFuture/Jacob Krol
    Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra REVIEW
    The Samsung Galaxy S26 UltraLance Ulanoff / Future

    For a comprehensive breakdown of how the camera systems on these two phones compare, check out our detailed iPhone 18 Pro vs Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra comparison. In essence, though, both of these phones excel at photography.

    Headlining the iPhone 18 Pro Max's camera array is a 48MP main sensor with a variable aperture that can move between f/1.48-4.0. That basically means you can control how much light gets into the sensor and therefore how much of your photo stays in focus — the more light you let in, the blurrier the background, and the less light you let in, the more of your scene stays in focus.

    Variable apertures are a rarity on phones, and so the functionality of such a feature may take some getting used to if you've never played around with aperture before, but its existence on the iPhone 18 Pro Max gives you more creative control over your shots.

    The iPhone also has a 48MP f/2.2 ultra-wide camera with a 120-degree field of view, a 48MP f/2.8 telephoto with 4x optical zoom — plus 8x "optical-quality" reach — and an 18MP f/1.9 front-facing camera.

    The latter also offers automatic subject tracking and the option to switch between portrait and landscape modes in one click, which is definitely a nice-to-have feature.

    The Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra, meanwhile, has a 200MP f/1.4 main camera, a 50MP f/1.9 ultra-wide with a 120-degree field of view, a 50MP f/2.9 telephoto offering 5x optical zoom, and a 10MP f/2.4 telephoto with 3x optical zoom, plus a 12MP f/2.2 camera on the front.

    So you get an extra lens on the S26 Ultra, giving you more telephoto versatility, but there’s no variable aperture here.

    AfterBefore
    Brand Logo
    iPhone
    Samsung

    In terms of photo quality, the iPhone 18 Pro tends to capture scenes as they are, using more neutral, realistic colors, while the Galaxy ups the saturation for slightly more stylized shots.

    AfterBefore
    Brand Logo
    iPhone
    Samsung

    When it comes to zoom, the S26 Ultra is the more versatile shooter of the two, not only because you get two optical zoom distances instead of one, but also because it lets you zoom digitally up to 100x, while the iPhone stops at 40x.

    To be honest, we'd never recommend zooming much beyond 30x anyway, but the Galaxy does at least give you the option to do so, and its 3 and 5x optical zoom ranges are slightly more usable than the iPhone’s 4x range.

    AfterBefore
    Brand Logo
    iPhone
    Samsung

    Macro photography is pretty similar on both phones, though that aforementioned color difference does come back into play, and again, we'd choose the iPhone for selfies.

    Remember: check out our detailed iPhone 18 Pro vs Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra comparison for more pictures and thoughts on how these two phones stack up in terms of photography.

    iPhone 18 Pro Max vs Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra: performance and software

    Apple iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max Review
    The iPhone 18 Pro MaxFuture/Jacob Krol
    Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra REVIEW
    The Samsung Galaxy S26 UltraLance Ulanoff / Future

    Neither of these phones is lacking in power, with the iPhone 18 Pro Max having a top-end Apple A20 Pro chipset and 12GB of RAM, while the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra has a similarly capable Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chipset and either 12GB of RAM or — in the 1TB model — 16GB.

    Our iPhone 18 Pro Max review described its chipset as “incredibly fast, efficient, and ready for whatever comes next,” while our Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra review described the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 as delivering “snappy performance in every task.”

    Both phones also have a vapor chamber to help keep them cool under pressure, so there isn't much to choose between them in terms of gaming performance.

    The same can't be said of their respective software.

    The iPhone 18 Pro Max runs on iOS 27, while the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra runs on Android 17 (having originally shipped with Android 16).

    The two OS packages are similarly accomplished — especially now that Apple has finally launched Siri AI — and both phones will likely receive many years of updates, with Samsung committing to seven major Android updates and Apple typically offering the same amount for its iPhones.

    That said, iOS and Android are very different. The former offers a clean, uniform layout and focuses on privacy and security, while the latter is an open-source system offering deep customization options and more granular control. If you're reading this, you probably already know which software you prefer.

    iPhone 18 Pro Max vs Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra: battery

    Apple iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max Review
    The iPhone 18 Pro (left) and 18 Pro Max (right)Future/Jacob Krol
    Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra REVIEW
    The Samsung Galaxy S26 UltraLance Ulanoff / Future

    For most of the last decade, Samsung’s flagship phones have had higher-capacity batteries than Apple’s, but that’s recently changed.

    Samsung has refused to move above 5,000mAh in its flagship Galaxy models, while iPhones have kept creeping upwards, with the iPhone 18 Pro Max having either a 5,567mAh battery (in eSIM-only models) or a 5,391mAh one in other variants.

    Still, both phones excel when it comes to battery life, with the iPhone 18 Pro Max delivering “outstanding endurance” according to our review, and we similarly praised the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra for its “fantastic” battery life.

    Both phones can last for around 30 hours if used casually, and if used continuously, you'll get around 17 hours from the iPhone 18 Pro Max and 16 hours from the Galaxy.

    Both devices also charge fast — you'll get 60W wired speeds and 25W wireless speeds regardless of which you choose — but for sheer capacity, the iPhone 18 Pro Max has the edge. It benefits from MagSafe, too, which isn’t something you get with the Galaxy S26 Ultra.

    iPhone 18 Pro Max vs Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra: verdict

    The iPhone 18 Pro and Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra being held in the hand

    The iPhone 18 Pro (left) and Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra (right) (Image credit: Future)

    The iPhone 18 Pro Max and Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra are both exceptional phones, but they have some specific strengths and weaknesses too.

    The iPhone 18 Pro Max has a variable aperture, a higher-capacity battery, MagSafe, and more storage at the top end, but it also costs a bit more in some configurations.

    The Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra isn’t just the marginally cheaper phone — at least in some varieties and regions — but it also has an extra camera, a clever Privacy Display, an S Pen stylus, and more or less matches the iPhone in most other ways.

    So, you’ll have to consider which of these features matters most to you — but for what it’s worth, the iPhone 18 Pro Max received five stars in our review while the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra achieved 4.5 stars.

    ]]>     https://www.techradar.com/phones/samsung-galaxy-phones/iphone-18-pro-max-vs-samsung-galaxy-s26-ultra KUMaUF5ZxMPLP7t9bJTZDK Sat, 03 Oct 2026 17:00:00 +0000 false false false
    Apple
    iPhone 18 Pro Max

    The iPhone 18 Pro Max has a huge battery, a useful variable aperture feature in its camera, and top-end specs across the board. But it's also extremely expensive and lacks some of the extras you get with the S26 Ultra (MagSafe notwithstanding).

    Pros

    • Useful variable aperture
    • Outstanding battery life
    • Very powerful

    Cons

    • Costs a lot
    • Lacks Samsung's stylus
    • No Privacy Display
    Samsung
    Galaxy S26 Ultra

    The Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra has top-tier specs paired with all sorts of extra features, including a bundled stylus and Privacy Display. But there's no variable aperture or magnetic charging here, and the battery is stuck at 5,000mAh.

    Pros

    • Unique Privacy Display
    • Powerful chipset
    • Phenomenal cameras

    Cons

    • No MagSafe-style system
    • No variable aperture
    • Expensive

    The iPhone 18 Pro Max and Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra are the top non-foldable phones from Apple and Samsung, respectively. They both feature top-tier chipsets, big, beautiful screens, and several capable cameras — and they also cost a lot as a result.

    But while, superficially, these two phones have a lot in common, they are, in many ways, quite different, so if you’re deciding between them in your search for the best phone of 2026, there are several factors to consider.

    Below, then, we’ve detailed the specs and features of the iPhone 18 Pro Max and Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra to give you a clearer idea of how they compare.

    iPhone 18 Pro Max vs Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra: specs comparison

    Before we look closely at the key features of these two phones, here's how they stack up in terms of specs:

    iPhone 18 Pro Max

    Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra

    Dimensions:

    163.4 x 78 x 8.8mm

    163.6 x 78.1 x 7.9mm

    Weight:

    249g

    214g

    Display:

    6.9-inch Super Retina XDR OLED

    6.9-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X

    Refresh rate:

    1Hz–120Hz

    1Hz–120Hz

    Peak brightness:

    3,000 nits

    2,600 nits

    Chipset:

    A20 Pro

    Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5

    RAM:

    12GB

    12GB / 16GB

    Rear cameras:

    48MP main, 48MP ultra-wide, 48MP telephoto

    200MP main, 50MP ultra-wide, 10MP + 50MP telephoto

    Front camera:

    18MP

    12MP

    Battery:

    5,567mAh (eSIM-only) / 5,391mAh (physical SIM)

    5,000mAh

    Charging:

    Fast wired (60W unofficially), 25W wireless

    60W wired, 25W wireless

    Storage:

    256GB / 512GB / 1TB / 2TB

    256GB / 512GB / 1TB

    iPhone 18 Pro Max vs Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra: price and availability

    Apple iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max Review
    The iPhone 18 Pro MaxFuture/Jacob Krol
    Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra REVIEW
    The Samsung Galaxy S26 UltraLance Ulanoff / Future

    The iPhone 18 Pro Max was launched in September 2026 and is now available globally, while the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra landed in February 2026 and is also now widely available across the world.

    For pricing, the iPhone 18 Pro Max starts at $1,299 / £1,299 / AU$2,299, for which you get 256GB of storage. There are other options too, though, including $1,499 / £1,499 / AU$2,699 for 512GB, $1,899 / £1,899 / AU$3,499 for 1TB, and $2,499 / £2,499 / AU$4,699 for 2TB.

    The Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra will set you back $1,299.99 / £1,279 / AU$2,199 for a 256GB model, $1,499.99 / £1,449 / AU$2,499 for 512GB, or $1,799.99 / £1,699 / AU$2,649 for 1TB.

    So their starting prices are either similar or identical, depending on where you are, but as you move up the storage capacities, the gulf in price widens, with the iPhone 18 Pro Max being the more expensive model — and that’s before you even get to its 2TB configuration, which isn’t a capacity that's available for the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra.

    iPhone 18 Pro Max pricing

    Storage

    US price

    UK price

    AU price

    256GB

    $1,299

    £1,299

    AU$2,299

    512GB

    $1,499

    £1,499

    AU$2,699

    1TB

    $1,899

    £1,899

    AU$3,499

    2TB

    $2,499

    £2,499

    AU$4,699

    Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra pricing

    Storage

    US price

    UK price

    AU price

    256GB

    $1,299.99

    £1,279

    AU$2,199

    512GB

    $1,499.99

    £1,449

    AU$2,499

    1TB

    $1,799.99

    £1,699

    AU$2,649

    iPhone 18 Pro Max vs Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra: design

    Apple iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max Review
    The iPhone 18 Pro MaxFuture/Jacob Krol
    Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra REVIEW
    The Samsung Galaxy S26 UltraLance Ulanoff / Future

    The iPhone 18 Pro Max has a similar design to the iPhone 17 Pro Max, with a large camera island on the back (housing three lenses) and a Dynamic Island cut-out in the screen — though the latter has shrunk since the previous model.

    The frame is made of aluminum, and the back has an aluminum section and a glass part. The phone is also water-resistant to depths of six meters for up to 30 minutes, and it measures 163.4 x 78 x 8.8mm and weighs 249g.

    The Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra has a slightly more angular design with less curvy corners, but it too has a large camera block on the back — though it’s arranged vertically, rather than horizontally as on the iPhone.

    The Galaxy S26 Ultra also has a smaller punch-hole cut-out on its screen, and it uses aluminum for the frame and glass for the back. It has the same water resistance rating as the iPhone 18 Pro Max — namely IP68 — but it's only actually tested for depths of up to 1.5 meters for 30 minutes.

    The Ultra comes in at 163.6 x 78.1 x 7.9mm and weighs 214g, so it’s actually lighter and slimmer than the iPhone 18 Pro Max — despite finding room for a slot to house its included S Pen Stylus.

    Finally, their colors also differ, with the iPhone 18 Pro Max being sold in Black, Silver, Glacier, and Burgundy shades, while the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra is available in Cobalt Violet, Sky Blue, Black, White, Silver Shadow, and Pink Gold.

    In our iPhone 18 Pro Max review, we described Burgundy and Glacier as being “two fantastic new colors”, but noted that little else had visually changed since the previous model, the iPhone 17 Pro.

    In our Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra review, we similarly noted that it’s an “incremental update that slims the phone down, makes it lighter, and just a little bit softer around the edges.”

    iPhone 18 Pro Max vs Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra: display

    Apple iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max Review
    The iPhone 18 Pro MaxFuture/Jacob Krol
    Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra REVIEW
    The Samsung Galaxy S26 UltraLance Ulanoff / Future

    The iPhone 18 Pro Max has a 6.9-inch 1320 x 2868 OLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, a 3,000-nit peak brightness, and around 460 pixels per inch.

    The Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra has a 6.9-inch 1440 x 3120 AMOLED screen with a 120Hz refresh rate, a 2,600-nit peak brightness, and roughly 500 pixels per inch.

    So, the two phones have the same size screens, the same refresh rates, and both use OLED displays, but Samsung’s phone has a marginally higher pixel density, while Apple’s has a slightly higher peak brightness.

    In our reviews, we praised both displays highly, saying that the iPhone 18 Pro Max’s was “punchy, sharp, and smooth”, and the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra’s was “a fantastic 6.9-inch AMOLED that makes every image pop.”

    In terms of their screen specs and quality, then, there’s little to choose between them, but the Galaxy S26 Ultra has a trick up its sleeve in the form of Privacy Display — a feature that blanks out some or all of the screen when not viewed front-on, so people can’t as easily snoop. This is a great feature that our reviewer called “a one-of-a-kind innovation that actually does what it promises.” The iPhone 18 Pro Max has no such feature.

    iPhone 18 Pro Max vs Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra: cameras

    Apple iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max Review
    The iPhone 18 Pro MaxFuture/Jacob Krol
    Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra REVIEW
    The Samsung Galaxy S26 UltraLance Ulanoff / Future

    For a comprehensive breakdown of how the camera systems on these two phones compare, check out our detailed iPhone 18 Pro vs Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra comparison. In essence, though, both of these phones excel at photography.

    Headlining the iPhone 18 Pro Max's camera array is a 48MP main sensor with a variable aperture that can move between f/1.48-4.0. That basically means you can control how much light gets into the sensor and therefore how much of your photo stays in focus — the more light you let in, the blurrier the background, and the less light you let in, the more of your scene stays in focus.

    Variable apertures are a rarity on phones, and so the functionality of such a feature may take some getting used to if you've never played around with aperture before, but its existence on the iPhone 18 Pro Max gives you more creative control over your shots.

    The iPhone also has a 48MP f/2.2 ultra-wide camera with a 120-degree field of view, a 48MP f/2.8 telephoto with 4x optical zoom — plus 8x "optical-quality" reach — and an 18MP f/1.9 front-facing camera.

    The latter also offers automatic subject tracking and the option to switch between portrait and landscape modes in one click, which is definitely a nice-to-have feature.

    The Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra, meanwhile, has a 200MP f/1.4 main camera, a 50MP f/1.9 ultra-wide with a 120-degree field of view, a 50MP f/2.9 telephoto offering 5x optical zoom, and a 10MP f/2.4 telephoto with 3x optical zoom, plus a 12MP f/2.2 camera on the front.

    So you get an extra lens on the S26 Ultra, giving you more telephoto versatility, but there’s no variable aperture here.

    AfterBefore
    Brand Logo
    iPhone
    Samsung

    In terms of photo quality, the iPhone 18 Pro tends to capture scenes as they are, using more neutral, realistic colors, while the Galaxy ups the saturation for slightly more stylized shots.

    AfterBefore
    Brand Logo
    iPhone
    Samsung

    When it comes to zoom, the S26 Ultra is the more versatile shooter of the two, not only because you get two optical zoom distances instead of one, but also because it lets you zoom digitally up to 100x, while the iPhone stops at 40x.

    To be honest, we'd never recommend zooming much beyond 30x anyway, but the Galaxy does at least give you the option to do so, and its 3 and 5x optical zoom ranges are slightly more usable than the iPhone’s 4x range.

    AfterBefore
    Brand Logo
    iPhone
    Samsung

    Macro photography is pretty similar on both phones, though that aforementioned color difference does come back into play, and again, we'd choose the iPhone for selfies.

    Remember: check out our detailed iPhone 18 Pro vs Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra comparison for more pictures and thoughts on how these two phones stack up in terms of photography.

    iPhone 18 Pro Max vs Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra: performance and software

    Apple iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max Review
    The iPhone 18 Pro MaxFuture/Jacob Krol
    Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra REVIEW
    The Samsung Galaxy S26 UltraLance Ulanoff / Future

    Neither of these phones is lacking in power, with the iPhone 18 Pro Max having a top-end Apple A20 Pro chipset and 12GB of RAM, while the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra has a similarly capable Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chipset and either 12GB of RAM or — in the 1TB model — 16GB.

    Our iPhone 18 Pro Max review described its chipset as “incredibly fast, efficient, and ready for whatever comes next,” while our Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra review described the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 as delivering “snappy performance in every task.”

    Both phones also have a vapor chamber to help keep them cool under pressure, so there isn't much to choose between them in terms of gaming performance.

    The same can't be said of their respective software.

    The iPhone 18 Pro Max runs on iOS 27, while the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra runs on Android 17 (having originally shipped with Android 16).

    The two OS packages are similarly accomplished — especially now that Apple has finally launched Siri AI — and both phones will likely receive many years of updates, with Samsung committing to seven major Android updates and Apple typically offering the same amount for its iPhones.

    That said, iOS and Android are very different. The former offers a clean, uniform layout and focuses on privacy and security, while the latter is an open-source system offering deep customization options and more granular control. If you're reading this, you probably already know which software you prefer.

    iPhone 18 Pro Max vs Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra: battery

    Apple iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max Review
    The iPhone 18 Pro (left) and 18 Pro Max (right)Future/Jacob Krol
    Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra REVIEW
    The Samsung Galaxy S26 UltraLance Ulanoff / Future

    For most of the last decade, Samsung’s flagship phones have had higher-capacity batteries than Apple’s, but that’s recently changed.

    Samsung has refused to move above 5,000mAh in its flagship Galaxy models, while iPhones have kept creeping upwards, with the iPhone 18 Pro Max having either a 5,567mAh battery (in eSIM-only models) or a 5,391mAh one in other variants.

    Still, both phones excel when it comes to battery life, with the iPhone 18 Pro Max delivering “outstanding endurance” according to our review, and we similarly praised the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra for its “fantastic” battery life.

    Both phones can last for around 30 hours if used casually, and if used continuously, you'll get around 17 hours from the iPhone 18 Pro Max and 16 hours from the Galaxy.

    Both devices also charge fast — you'll get 60W wired speeds and 25W wireless speeds regardless of which you choose — but for sheer capacity, the iPhone 18 Pro Max has the edge. It benefits from MagSafe, too, which isn’t something you get with the Galaxy S26 Ultra.

    iPhone 18 Pro Max vs Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra: verdict

    The iPhone 18 Pro and Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra being held in the hand

    The iPhone 18 Pro (left) and Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra (right) (Image credit: Future)

    The iPhone 18 Pro Max and Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra are both exceptional phones, but they have some specific strengths and weaknesses too.

    The iPhone 18 Pro Max has a variable aperture, a higher-capacity battery, MagSafe, and more storage at the top end, but it also costs a bit more in some configurations.

    The Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra isn’t just the marginally cheaper phone — at least in some varieties and regions — but it also has an extra camera, a clever Privacy Display, an S Pen stylus, and more or less matches the iPhone in most other ways.

    So, you’ll have to consider which of these features matters most to you — but for what it’s worth, the iPhone 18 Pro Max received five stars in our review while the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra achieved 4.5 stars.

    ]]>     <![CDATA[ 10 new 4K Blu-rays from September 2026 to add to your collection ]]> Welcome to the September 2026 Blu-ray Bounty. If this is your first time reading, you can check out previous editions of the Blu-ray Bounty at the link. This is where we test the latest 4K releases each month, to recommend whether you should add them to your 4K collection.

    4K Blu-ray is the best way to view movies at home and is my go-to source for testing the best TVs and best soundbars as TechRadar’s AV reviewer. Plus, I’m a collector myself, and always adding new titles to my already-packed shelves.

    This month, I’ll be testing ten new titles from September 2026. And there’s some big news: we’ve upgraded our in-house sound system! After using the Samsung HW-Q990C soundbar system since the start, we’ve updated to a full separate Denon and Bowers & Wilkins home theater system, consisting of the Denon AVC-3900H AV receiver, a pair of B&W 603 S3 floorstanders for fronts, a pair of B&W 607 S3 bookshelves for surrounds, a B&W HTM6 S3 centre speaker and a B&W ASW610 subwoofer. This is a 5.1 system for now, but we’ll be adding in two side speakers soon to create a 7.1 system.

    Elsewhere our setup remains the same. The TV is the LG G6, one of 2026’s best OLED TVs and the Panasonic DP-UB820 4K Blu-ray player, one of the best 4K Blu-ray players on the market. As usual, I’ll be testing each disc on its picture and audio quality and not the movies themselves.

    Supergirl (Warner Bros.)

    Supergirl 4K Blu-ray on LG G6 showing Supergirl in front of ship in space
    Warner Bros / Future
    Supergirl 4K Blu-ray on LG G6 showing ship landing at rest stop
    Warner Bros / Future
    Supergirl 4K Blu-ray case
    Future

    Supergirl follows the story of Kara Zor-El AKA Supergirl,(Milly Alcock) Superman’s cousin, as she is thrown into an unlikely alliance to hunt down Krem (Matthias Schoenaerts), a space trafficker and outlaw, after he harms her dog Krypto.

    Supergirl looks superb in 4K. Colors are both punchy, shown in the neon signs at the various bars or the laser from Supergirl’s eyes and the various weapons of criminals, and true-to-life, shown in the iconic colors of the blue, red and yellow in the Supergirl costume. Scenes in space showcase the disc’s rich black tones and strong contrast, with the balance between the black of space and the bright stars and Sun. Textures are crisp, with people looking realistic and environments and objects packed with detail.

    The disc has a Dolby Atmos soundtrack that is a real showcase for the object-based sound. As Supergirl flies around, the trajectory of sound accurately follows her movement on screen, with the sound mapped precisely from speaker to speaker. Spaceship engines and the boom of Supergirl taking off deliver meaty bass that’s well-controlled, and fight scenes generate plenty of hefty impact from front channels.

    Star Wars: The Mandalorian & Grogu (Disney)

    Star Wars the mandalorian & grogu 4k blu-ray on LG G6 showing the mandalorian in an arena
    Disney / Future
    Star Wars the mandalorian & grogu 4k blu-ray on LG G6 showing grogu with a water bottle
    Disney / Future
    Star Wars the mandalorian & grogu 4k blu-ray steelbook case
    Future

    A spin-off movie from The Mandalorian TV show, Star Wars: The Mandalorian & Grogu follows the two titular characters as they are tasked with the rescue of Rotta the Hutt, the only surviving heir to Jabba the Hutt.

    Presented in Dolby Vision, The Mandalorian & Grogu looks excellent. It’s a slick presentation with lifelike textures and detail: characters take on a 3D-like depth that makes them appear true-to-life. There’s also plenty of high contrast scenes with rich black tones that look great on the G6 OLED. The balance between light and dark tones was superb too, with the gleam of the Mandalorian’s armor contrasting well with the dark surroundings.

    Colors are also delivered with some nice pop, with the reds of lasers and blaster fire looking vibrant. On a wooded planet, the greens of the trees are lush and natural.

    The Dolby Atmos soundtrack here is brilliant. During the opening scene, as the Mandalorian infiltrates an Imperial warlord’s hideout, gunfire sounds hefty with plenty of impact. Explosions generated a weighty rumble that had our testing room rattling, but later fight scenes showed that the bass was tightly controlled.

    Sound placement is superb too. As gunfire scatters from one end of a room to another, the trajectory is accurately mapped from the front to surround speakers with real precision.

    Hamilton (Disney)

    Hamilton 4K blu-ray on lg g6 showing Hamilton in a tavern
    Disney / Future
    Hamilton 4K blu-ray on lg g6 showing Amanda Schuyler doing solo
    Disney / Future
    Hamilton 4K blu-ray case
    Disney / Future

    One of the most widely known musicals in recent theater, Hamilton follows the story of Alexander Hamilton, one of the founding fathers of the US. The musical is known for using different styles of music in its songs, primarily hip-hop. This home video version is a recording of the original 2015-2016 Broadway run.

    The 4K disc supports a Dolby Atmos soundtrack that sounds excellent. Vocals are cleanly delivered and well balanced with other elements in the mix. Backing choirs and vocalists feed through the rear speakers, and individual instruments are precisely mapped to each channel. In ‘Alexander Hamilton’ (the opening number), there’s tight bass, punchy drums and excellent use of Dolby Atmos’ object-based profile, with every element combining to conjure up an immersive soundstage.

    Other tracks such as You’ll Be Back demonstrate the Atmos soundtrack’s more delicate strings and pianos, while other tracks such as Guns and Ships again show the bass-driven hip-hop styling mixed with epic strings and rapped vocals. All of it sounds impressive, especially through our new home theater system.

    The picture here is presented in Dolby Vision and looks great. Black tones created by the use of stage lighting are deep and rich, actors look true-to-life, there’s plenty of refined detail in costumes, and colors have a nice vibrancy to them throughout the entire production. The fast movement of the actors and cameras will also provide a test for your display. Shadow detail is brilliant throughout as well, with the spotlights and stage lights creating some impressive-looking shadows.

    12 Angry Men (1957) (Criterion)

    12 Angry Men (1957) 4k blu-ray on lg g6 showing juror sat on table talking to 2 other jurors
    The Criterion Collection / Future
    12 Angry Men (1957) 4k blu-ray on lg g6 showing 3 jurors sat at a table
    The Criterion Collection / Future
    12 Angry Men (1957) 4k blu-ray case
    Future

    12 Angry Men (1957) follows a group of 12 jurors debating whether to convict or acquit a teen charged with murder. 11 jurors agree, but 1 juror’s caution forces the men to reconsider the evidence.

    As with most Criterion releases of classic movies, this restoration breathes new life into the picture. Textures have been upscaled nicely, giving people in particular a fresh, 3D-like look and textures in the environment have been refined brilliantly in the deliberation room. The black and white picture also shows strong contrast, with a terrific range of gray tones. There’s a fair amount of grain retained here, but it suits the movie.

    The supported soundtrack is only monaural, so there’s nothing here to really show off your home theater. But the soundtrack has been cleaned up, meaning dialogue is clear throughout and other effects such as the shuffling of chairs is clear too.

    Obsession (Universal Pictures)

    Obsession 4K Blu-ray on LG G6 showing Bear and Ian talking
    Universal Pictures / Future
    Obsession 4K Blu-ray on LG G6 showing Nikki smiling
    Universal Pictures / Future
    Obsession 4K Blu-ray case
    Future

    Obsession follows the story of Ian (Michael Johnston), who uses a ‘One Wish Willow’ to wish that his crush, Nikki (Inde Navarrette), will fall in love with him. His desire is granted, but he soon discovers that this triggers a dark and dangerous series of events.

    Presented in Dolby Vision, Obsession looks great in 4K. There’s a lot of deep dark tones throughout, with some strong contrast on display, created by the use of lighting. Textures are crisp, with characters appearing lifelike throughout the movie. There’s some stellar shadow detail here as well, with a lot of detail legible even in particularly dark scenes. Colors, while not especially varied, do look bold and vibrant when used, particularly reds, which look both punchy and natural.

    There’s a Dolby Atmos soundtrack supported here, which is most effective with the movie's tense and foreboding score. Bass synths generate a lot of rumble from the subwoofer, and there’s a real sense of immersion as the other synths swirl across the speakers. Other effects also sound great, delivered with real precision and clarity. In one scene where Nikki smashes a bottle, the sound of splintering glass is realistic, and the following visceral moments sound gruesomely lifelike as well. Moments of violence are rendered with spine-chilling detail too.

    Disclosure Day (Universal Pictures)

    Disclosure Day 4K Blu-ray on lg g6 with Daniel Kellner by fence outside barn
    Universal Pictures / Future
    Disclosure Day 4K Blu-ray on lg g6 showing Margaret talking to a camera
    Universal Pictures / Future
    Disclosure Day 4K Blu-ray case
    Universal Pictures / Future

    Disclosure Day follows the story of Margaret Fairchild (Emily Blunt), a meteorologist and Dr Daniel Kellner (Josh O’Connor), a cybersecurity specialist, who end up on the run from a government agent (Colin Firth) after discovering extraterrestrial life is real, and they attempt to reveal the information to the world.

    This is a slick-looking 4K presentation, with lifelike textures and detail. Colors are punchy and realistic throughout the movie, whether it’s clothing, cars or environments, such as the green fields of the forest where Kellner hides out. High contrast scenes look excellent as well, with a great balance between light and dark tones. HDR highlights really pop on screen too, shown with rear headlights in cars and spotlights used later in the movie.

    The Dolby Atmos soundtrack featured here is fantastic. Gunshots have plenty of impact, explosions and car crashes generate a hefty bass response, and object-based sounds are expansive. As cars drive through a dusty, gravel path, the sound of the gravel under the tires is accurately mapped to rear channels, and seamlessly synchronizes with the on-screen action.

    Batman: Knightfall Part 1 (Warner Bros)

    Batman Knightfall Part 1 4K Blu-ray on LG G6 showing Batman using a grappling hook on Azrael's arm
    Warner Bros / Future
    Batman Knightfall Part 1 4K Blu-ray on LG G6 showing Riddler sat at a desk
    Warner Bros / Future
    Batman Knightfall Part 1 4K Blu-ray case
    Future

    Batman: Knightfall Part 1 is the first part in a planned trilogy of animated movies that adapts the ‘Knightfall’ storyline in Batman comics, that ran from 1993-94. The first part follows Batman as he confronts the escaped inmates of Arkham Asylum, who have been freed by Bane.

    This is a clean, crisp animation presented in 4K, Dolby Vision. Colors are satisfyingly vivid and give the picture a real comic book look. Reds and oranges are especially eye-catching, shown again with blood and the fire of Azrael’s claws. The animation itself also appears intricate, with sharp textures that give the picture depth. Black tones are rich and look great on our LG G6 OLED.

    The disc supports a DTS-HD 5.1 MA soundtrack that sounds superb. In the opening scene, as Azrael ambushes members of the Kobra Cult, gunfire delivers good punchiness, Azrael’s movements are tracked accurately and as he stalks around the gang, the sound follows the action precisely. Punches have good heft and weight to them and the soundtrack makes every use of each channel, giving every sound room to breathe.

    Little Odessa (Criterion)

    Little Odessa 4K Blu-ray on LG G6 showing Joshua and Reuben in the snow
    Criterion Collection / Future
    Little Odessa 4K Blu-ray on LG G6 showing a shot of New York by the riverside
    Criterion Collection / Future
    Little Odessa 4K Blu-ray case
    Criterion Collection / Future

    Little Odessa tells the story of Joshua Shapira (Tim Roth), a hitman who accepts a contract in the Brooklyn neighborhood where he grew up, where upon his return, he reconnects with his estranged Soviet immigrant family.

    This is another great 4K restoration from Criterion. Textures have been upscaled well and cleaned up, giving the movie a more modern look. Night scenes are perfect for showing off the disc’s strong contrast, with rich shadow detail, deep dark tones and a good balance with brighter tones, such as streetlights and snow. Colors look natural throughout, and even scenes with snow benefit from the new Dolby Vision HDR grade that adds more brightness to the white tones.

    The disc supports a DTS-HD 2.0 surround MA soundtrack. While this won't be a tought test for your home theater system, the general ambience of the Brooklyn streets adds some good atmosphere to the viewing experience, with car horns, nearby pedestrians and the subway all adding some life. Speech is also clear throughout.

    Barbarian (20th Century Studios)

    Barbarian 4K Blu-ray on LG G6 showing Keith stood in doorway talking to Tess
    20th Century Studios / Future
    Barbarian 4K Blu-ray on LG G6 showing Tess lit by a torch
    20th Century Studios / Future
    Barbarian 4K Blu-ray case
    Future

    Barbarian follows the story of Tess (Georgina Campbell), a woman who books an AirBnB and discovers that it’s been double-booked by a man named Keith (Bill Skarsgård). After Tess decides to stay anyway, she soon discovers dark secrets within the house.

    This is another great-looking 4K Blu-ray. Where your display will be really tested is with the movie’s many dark scenes. On our LG G6, black tones were inky and rich, and contrast was strong as the light from torches as well as dimly lit lamps juxtaposed dark surroundings. Shadow detail is also excellent, and textures have an authentic look, particularly with people. While the spectrum of colors on offer is relatively slim, they appear vibrant and natural in equal measure when used.

    A DTS-HD 5.1 MA soundtrack is featured here. From the opening scenes, the use of surround adds to the immersion, with the pounding rain still giving a sense of height, despite the absence of actual height channels. The movie’s tense, mysterious score is punchy, with the bass synths generating some good low-end tones that whip up a chilling atmosphere. Other more subtle effects such as the scratching of rocks and shallow breathing are detailed enough to really set your nerves on edge.

    The Abominable Snowman (1957) (Hammer)

    The Abominable Snowman (1957) 4K Blu-ray showing Rollason talking with natives of Himalayas
    Hammer / Future
    The Abominable Snowman (1957) 4K Blu-ray on lg g6 showing explorers stood by rock in snow
    Hammer / Future
    The Abominable Snowman (1957) 4K Blu-ray case
    Future

    The Abominable Snowman follows Dr John Rollason (Peter Cushing), a British scientist who joins an expedition led by American Tom Friend (Forrest Tucker) to find the legendary Yeti in the Himalayas.

    As I’ve found with the last few Hammer releases I’ve tested, The Abominable Snowman looks very good in 4K. The restoration looks excellent, with textures upscaled to give the movie a much fresher look. This is shown most of all in people’s skin, which is given a 3D-like level of detail. The black-and-white picture looks great too, with deep blacks, punchy whites and a good range of gray tones. Shadow detail is fantastic too, with a great use of shadows to create strong-contrast scenes. Grain has been cleaned up a lot and though there is some left, this is a clean-looking presentation.

    There are two soundtrack options here: mono and 5.1 surround. While the mono is no doubt more accurate to the original movie (due to the timeframe), the 5.1 does add an extra layer. Sound effects such as shuffling feet through snow and the howling winds are given more space, while speech is mapped to center channels for a clearer sound. Scenes where avalanches crash produce surprisingly strong bass as well, with some solid rumble emanating from our subwoofer.

    ]]>     https://www.techradar.com/televisions/blu-ray/10-new-4k-blu-rays-from-september-2026-to-add-to-your-collection 6LKMevcYCZczVwPaKxU6qe Sat, 03 Oct 2026 16:00:00 +0000 false false false

    Welcome to the September 2026 Blu-ray Bounty. If this is your first time reading, you can check out previous editions of the Blu-ray Bounty at the link. This is where we test the latest 4K releases each month, to recommend whether you should add them to your 4K collection.

    4K Blu-ray is the best way to view movies at home and is my go-to source for testing the best TVs and best soundbars as TechRadar’s AV reviewer. Plus, I’m a collector myself, and always adding new titles to my already-packed shelves.

    This month, I’ll be testing ten new titles from September 2026. And there’s some big news: we’ve upgraded our in-house sound system! After using the Samsung HW-Q990C soundbar system since the start, we’ve updated to a full separate Denon and Bowers & Wilkins home theater system, consisting of the Denon AVC-3900H AV receiver, a pair of B&W 603 S3 floorstanders for fronts, a pair of B&W 607 S3 bookshelves for surrounds, a B&W HTM6 S3 centre speaker and a B&W ASW610 subwoofer. This is a 5.1 system for now, but we’ll be adding in two side speakers soon to create a 7.1 system.

    Elsewhere our setup remains the same. The TV is the LG G6, one of 2026’s best OLED TVs and the Panasonic DP-UB820 4K Blu-ray player, one of the best 4K Blu-ray players on the market. As usual, I’ll be testing each disc on its picture and audio quality and not the movies themselves.

    Supergirl (Warner Bros.)

    Supergirl 4K Blu-ray on LG G6 showing Supergirl in front of ship in space
    Warner Bros / Future
    Supergirl 4K Blu-ray on LG G6 showing ship landing at rest stop
    Warner Bros / Future
    Supergirl 4K Blu-ray case
    Future

    Supergirl follows the story of Kara Zor-El AKA Supergirl,(Milly Alcock) Superman’s cousin, as she is thrown into an unlikely alliance to hunt down Krem (Matthias Schoenaerts), a space trafficker and outlaw, after he harms her dog Krypto.

    Supergirl looks superb in 4K. Colors are both punchy, shown in the neon signs at the various bars or the laser from Supergirl’s eyes and the various weapons of criminals, and true-to-life, shown in the iconic colors of the blue, red and yellow in the Supergirl costume. Scenes in space showcase the disc’s rich black tones and strong contrast, with the balance between the black of space and the bright stars and Sun. Textures are crisp, with people looking realistic and environments and objects packed with detail.

    The disc has a Dolby Atmos soundtrack that is a real showcase for the object-based sound. As Supergirl flies around, the trajectory of sound accurately follows her movement on screen, with the sound mapped precisely from speaker to speaker. Spaceship engines and the boom of Supergirl taking off deliver meaty bass that’s well-controlled, and fight scenes generate plenty of hefty impact from front channels.

    Star Wars: The Mandalorian & Grogu (Disney)

    Star Wars the mandalorian & grogu 4k blu-ray on LG G6 showing the mandalorian in an arena
    Disney / Future
    Star Wars the mandalorian & grogu 4k blu-ray on LG G6 showing grogu with a water bottle
    Disney / Future
    Star Wars the mandalorian & grogu 4k blu-ray steelbook case
    Future

    A spin-off movie from The Mandalorian TV show, Star Wars: The Mandalorian & Grogu follows the two titular characters as they are tasked with the rescue of Rotta the Hutt, the only surviving heir to Jabba the Hutt.

    Presented in Dolby Vision, The Mandalorian & Grogu looks excellent. It’s a slick presentation with lifelike textures and detail: characters take on a 3D-like depth that makes them appear true-to-life. There’s also plenty of high contrast scenes with rich black tones that look great on the G6 OLED. The balance between light and dark tones was superb too, with the gleam of the Mandalorian’s armor contrasting well with the dark surroundings.

    Colors are also delivered with some nice pop, with the reds of lasers and blaster fire looking vibrant. On a wooded planet, the greens of the trees are lush and natural.

    The Dolby Atmos soundtrack here is brilliant. During the opening scene, as the Mandalorian infiltrates an Imperial warlord’s hideout, gunfire sounds hefty with plenty of impact. Explosions generated a weighty rumble that had our testing room rattling, but later fight scenes showed that the bass was tightly controlled.

    Sound placement is superb too. As gunfire scatters from one end of a room to another, the trajectory is accurately mapped from the front to surround speakers with real precision.

    Hamilton (Disney)

    Hamilton 4K blu-ray on lg g6 showing Hamilton in a tavern
    Disney / Future
    Hamilton 4K blu-ray on lg g6 showing Amanda Schuyler doing solo
    Disney / Future
    Hamilton 4K blu-ray case
    Disney / Future

    One of the most widely known musicals in recent theater, Hamilton follows the story of Alexander Hamilton, one of the founding fathers of the US. The musical is known for using different styles of music in its songs, primarily hip-hop. This home video version is a recording of the original 2015-2016 Broadway run.

    The 4K disc supports a Dolby Atmos soundtrack that sounds excellent. Vocals are cleanly delivered and well balanced with other elements in the mix. Backing choirs and vocalists feed through the rear speakers, and individual instruments are precisely mapped to each channel. In ‘Alexander Hamilton’ (the opening number), there’s tight bass, punchy drums and excellent use of Dolby Atmos’ object-based profile, with every element combining to conjure up an immersive soundstage.

    Other tracks such as You’ll Be Back demonstrate the Atmos soundtrack’s more delicate strings and pianos, while other tracks such as Guns and Ships again show the bass-driven hip-hop styling mixed with epic strings and rapped vocals. All of it sounds impressive, especially through our new home theater system.

    The picture here is presented in Dolby Vision and looks great. Black tones created by the use of stage lighting are deep and rich, actors look true-to-life, there’s plenty of refined detail in costumes, and colors have a nice vibrancy to them throughout the entire production. The fast movement of the actors and cameras will also provide a test for your display. Shadow detail is brilliant throughout as well, with the spotlights and stage lights creating some impressive-looking shadows.

    12 Angry Men (1957) (Criterion)

    12 Angry Men (1957) 4k blu-ray on lg g6 showing juror sat on table talking to 2 other jurors
    The Criterion Collection / Future
    12 Angry Men (1957) 4k blu-ray on lg g6 showing 3 jurors sat at a table
    The Criterion Collection / Future
    12 Angry Men (1957) 4k blu-ray case
    Future

    12 Angry Men (1957) follows a group of 12 jurors debating whether to convict or acquit a teen charged with murder. 11 jurors agree, but 1 juror’s caution forces the men to reconsider the evidence.

    As with most Criterion releases of classic movies, this restoration breathes new life into the picture. Textures have been upscaled nicely, giving people in particular a fresh, 3D-like look and textures in the environment have been refined brilliantly in the deliberation room. The black and white picture also shows strong contrast, with a terrific range of gray tones. There’s a fair amount of grain retained here, but it suits the movie.

    The supported soundtrack is only monaural, so there’s nothing here to really show off your home theater. But the soundtrack has been cleaned up, meaning dialogue is clear throughout and other effects such as the shuffling of chairs is clear too.

    Obsession (Universal Pictures)

    Obsession 4K Blu-ray on LG G6 showing Bear and Ian talking
    Universal Pictures / Future
    Obsession 4K Blu-ray on LG G6 showing Nikki smiling
    Universal Pictures / Future
    Obsession 4K Blu-ray case
    Future

    Obsession follows the story of Ian (Michael Johnston), who uses a ‘One Wish Willow’ to wish that his crush, Nikki (Inde Navarrette), will fall in love with him. His desire is granted, but he soon discovers that this triggers a dark and dangerous series of events.

    Presented in Dolby Vision, Obsession looks great in 4K. There’s a lot of deep dark tones throughout, with some strong contrast on display, created by the use of lighting. Textures are crisp, with characters appearing lifelike throughout the movie. There’s some stellar shadow detail here as well, with a lot of detail legible even in particularly dark scenes. Colors, while not especially varied, do look bold and vibrant when used, particularly reds, which look both punchy and natural.

    There’s a Dolby Atmos soundtrack supported here, which is most effective with the movie's tense and foreboding score. Bass synths generate a lot of rumble from the subwoofer, and there’s a real sense of immersion as the other synths swirl across the speakers. Other effects also sound great, delivered with real precision and clarity. In one scene where Nikki smashes a bottle, the sound of splintering glass is realistic, and the following visceral moments sound gruesomely lifelike as well. Moments of violence are rendered with spine-chilling detail too.

    Disclosure Day (Universal Pictures)

    Disclosure Day 4K Blu-ray on lg g6 with Daniel Kellner by fence outside barn
    Universal Pictures / Future
    Disclosure Day 4K Blu-ray on lg g6 showing Margaret talking to a camera
    Universal Pictures / Future
    Disclosure Day 4K Blu-ray case
    Universal Pictures / Future

    Disclosure Day follows the story of Margaret Fairchild (Emily Blunt), a meteorologist and Dr Daniel Kellner (Josh O’Connor), a cybersecurity specialist, who end up on the run from a government agent (Colin Firth) after discovering extraterrestrial life is real, and they attempt to reveal the information to the world.

    This is a slick-looking 4K presentation, with lifelike textures and detail. Colors are punchy and realistic throughout the movie, whether it’s clothing, cars or environments, such as the green fields of the forest where Kellner hides out. High contrast scenes look excellent as well, with a great balance between light and dark tones. HDR highlights really pop on screen too, shown with rear headlights in cars and spotlights used later in the movie.

    The Dolby Atmos soundtrack featured here is fantastic. Gunshots have plenty of impact, explosions and car crashes generate a hefty bass response, and object-based sounds are expansive. As cars drive through a dusty, gravel path, the sound of the gravel under the tires is accurately mapped to rear channels, and seamlessly synchronizes with the on-screen action.

    Batman: Knightfall Part 1 (Warner Bros)

    Batman Knightfall Part 1 4K Blu-ray on LG G6 showing Batman using a grappling hook on Azrael's arm
    Warner Bros / Future
    Batman Knightfall Part 1 4K Blu-ray on LG G6 showing Riddler sat at a desk
    Warner Bros / Future
    Batman Knightfall Part 1 4K Blu-ray case
    Future

    Batman: Knightfall Part 1 is the first part in a planned trilogy of animated movies that adapts the ‘Knightfall’ storyline in Batman comics, that ran from 1993-94. The first part follows Batman as he confronts the escaped inmates of Arkham Asylum, who have been freed by Bane.

    This is a clean, crisp animation presented in 4K, Dolby Vision. Colors are satisfyingly vivid and give the picture a real comic book look. Reds and oranges are especially eye-catching, shown again with blood and the fire of Azrael’s claws. The animation itself also appears intricate, with sharp textures that give the picture depth. Black tones are rich and look great on our LG G6 OLED.

    The disc supports a DTS-HD 5.1 MA soundtrack that sounds superb. In the opening scene, as Azrael ambushes members of the Kobra Cult, gunfire delivers good punchiness, Azrael’s movements are tracked accurately and as he stalks around the gang, the sound follows the action precisely. Punches have good heft and weight to them and the soundtrack makes every use of each channel, giving every sound room to breathe.

    Little Odessa (Criterion)

    Little Odessa 4K Blu-ray on LG G6 showing Joshua and Reuben in the snow
    Criterion Collection / Future
    Little Odessa 4K Blu-ray on LG G6 showing a shot of New York by the riverside
    Criterion Collection / Future
    Little Odessa 4K Blu-ray case
    Criterion Collection / Future

    Little Odessa tells the story of Joshua Shapira (Tim Roth), a hitman who accepts a contract in the Brooklyn neighborhood where he grew up, where upon his return, he reconnects with his estranged Soviet immigrant family.

    This is another great 4K restoration from Criterion. Textures have been upscaled well and cleaned up, giving the movie a more modern look. Night scenes are perfect for showing off the disc’s strong contrast, with rich shadow detail, deep dark tones and a good balance with brighter tones, such as streetlights and snow. Colors look natural throughout, and even scenes with snow benefit from the new Dolby Vision HDR grade that adds more brightness to the white tones.

    The disc supports a DTS-HD 2.0 surround MA soundtrack. While this won't be a tought test for your home theater system, the general ambience of the Brooklyn streets adds some good atmosphere to the viewing experience, with car horns, nearby pedestrians and the subway all adding some life. Speech is also clear throughout.

    Barbarian (20th Century Studios)

    Barbarian 4K Blu-ray on LG G6 showing Keith stood in doorway talking to Tess
    20th Century Studios / Future
    Barbarian 4K Blu-ray on LG G6 showing Tess lit by a torch
    20th Century Studios / Future
    Barbarian 4K Blu-ray case
    Future

    Barbarian follows the story of Tess (Georgina Campbell), a woman who books an AirBnB and discovers that it’s been double-booked by a man named Keith (Bill Skarsgård). After Tess decides to stay anyway, she soon discovers dark secrets within the house.

    This is another great-looking 4K Blu-ray. Where your display will be really tested is with the movie’s many dark scenes. On our LG G6, black tones were inky and rich, and contrast was strong as the light from torches as well as dimly lit lamps juxtaposed dark surroundings. Shadow detail is also excellent, and textures have an authentic look, particularly with people. While the spectrum of colors on offer is relatively slim, they appear vibrant and natural in equal measure when used.

    A DTS-HD 5.1 MA soundtrack is featured here. From the opening scenes, the use of surround adds to the immersion, with the pounding rain still giving a sense of height, despite the absence of actual height channels. The movie’s tense, mysterious score is punchy, with the bass synths generating some good low-end tones that whip up a chilling atmosphere. Other more subtle effects such as the scratching of rocks and shallow breathing are detailed enough to really set your nerves on edge.

    The Abominable Snowman (1957) (Hammer)

    The Abominable Snowman (1957) 4K Blu-ray showing Rollason talking with natives of Himalayas
    Hammer / Future
    The Abominable Snowman (1957) 4K Blu-ray on lg g6 showing explorers stood by rock in snow
    Hammer / Future
    The Abominable Snowman (1957) 4K Blu-ray case
    Future

    The Abominable Snowman follows Dr John Rollason (Peter Cushing), a British scientist who joins an expedition led by American Tom Friend (Forrest Tucker) to find the legendary Yeti in the Himalayas.

    As I’ve found with the last few Hammer releases I’ve tested, The Abominable Snowman looks very good in 4K. The restoration looks excellent, with textures upscaled to give the movie a much fresher look. This is shown most of all in people’s skin, which is given a 3D-like level of detail. The black-and-white picture looks great too, with deep blacks, punchy whites and a good range of gray tones. Shadow detail is fantastic too, with a great use of shadows to create strong-contrast scenes. Grain has been cleaned up a lot and though there is some left, this is a clean-looking presentation.

    There are two soundtrack options here: mono and 5.1 surround. While the mono is no doubt more accurate to the original movie (due to the timeframe), the 5.1 does add an extra layer. Sound effects such as shuffling feet through snow and the howling winds are given more space, while speech is mapped to center channels for a clearer sound. Scenes where avalanches crash produce surprisingly strong bass as well, with some solid rumble emanating from our subwoofer.

    ]]>     <![CDATA[ Google Family Link helped me lock down 99% of my child's phone with ease — here's how ]]> The pressure to get my son a phone arrived sooner than I was expecting. He was barely halfway through Year 6 (that's 5th Grade for any American readers), and his friends started taking their newly acquired smartphones on trips to the park, when previously their hands would be full of footballs and frisbees. I felt like I had missed a parent’s meeting where it was decided that this was the life we wanted for our kids.

    The realization that I was well behind the curve in this area kickstarted a lot of late-night Googling, where I spent hours researching the best phone for my son. I initially thought I’d just get him a dumb phone. At least then I could pretty much guarantee protecting him from harmful content. But this wouldn’t have allowed me to track his location, and for safety reasons, that was a non-negotiable for me.

    Then I discovered child-friendly phones like the British-designed Sayph or the more well-known HMD Fuse. These types of phones enable parents to restrict app use, create a whitelist of contacts, and even create a school mode. They also often have additional filters for blocking inappropriate content. I liked the idea, but the handset options were limited.

    It was only then that I stumbled across the Google Family Link app, which enables parents and their children to create healthy, positive digital habits. Through simple, user-friendly tools, you can do almost everything that a dedicated child-friendly phone can with Family Link, and if you use it to the fullest, you can create a safe online environment for your child.

    Google Family Link works across Android, ChromeOS, and iOS devices — the child's phone, however, must be an Android device, since Google doesn't offer the 'kids' version of the Family Link app for iOS; only the 'parent' version.

    I’m not a helicopter parent, honest!

    I’m sure I’m not the only one who likes to know where their child is. The advent of GPS has not only made it possible to track your child but also made it feel slightly creepy to do so. The fact that you know where they are without them knowing where you are feels slightly odd. But then again, they are your children, and you’ve been tasked with keeping them safe.

    Google Family Link

    (Image credit: Future / Paul Hatton)

    I like to know whether my son has arrived at school, if he’s still at the park, or which friend's house he’s decided to go to. As much as I want to know where he is, I don’t want him feeling that he’s got to be constantly on his phone texting me updates. That would go against my desire to keep him as screen-free as possible for as long as possible.

    This is where Google Family Link becomes your ally. With it, you can not only keep an eye on their location but also create specific places named Family Places. Whenever your child enters or leaves these locations, the parent receives a notification. With that, you can keep a loose eye on them without following their little avatar on Google Maps as they cycle to school. Full disclaimer: yes, I have done that as well.

    "No, I’m not giving you access to that app”

    Given this was going to be my son’s first ever experience of a smartphone, I was keen to only give him the very basics. I didn’t want to provide access to anything that was remotely addictive for fear that he wouldn’t be able to put the phone down. I was surprised how easy it was to achieve this with Google Family Link.

    All I had to do was navigate to the ‘Block and limit apps’ tab to see a full list of available apps on his phone. From there, I was able to select an individual app and either block it completely or set a daily time limit. The interface is incredibly well laid out, such that even the least tech-confident parent could manage to navigate it.

    Google Family Link

    (Image credit: Future / Paul Hatton)

    I also wanted some level of control over his contacts. Okay, now I really am starting to sound like a control freak. With Family Link, you can not only set ground rules for incoming and outgoing calls and texts but also require any contact to be approved before they can be contacted.

    The text interactions my child might have then got me thinking about issues he might run into with group chats. I’m sure we’ve all read the stories of bullying and inappropriate sharing of private photos, and I didn’t want my son to be exposed to this.

    I was therefore grateful to see that Google offers sensitive content warnings, which add a layer of protection for Google Messages that blurs incoming nude photos and discourages the sending of nude photos. I can’t comment on its effectiveness, although it’s nice to know it’s there. It’s worth noting that many child-specific phones offer greater levels of nudity protection, if this is a concern of yours.

    Locking down websites because the world is a scary place

    My son needs ongoing access to some select websites to be able to do his homework, but beyond this, I was able to control which sites he was able to visit when signed in to Chrome. The app enables you to activate a filter that blocks explicit sites, although even Google admits in the app that “No filter is perfect.”

    Google Family Link

    (Image credit: Future / Paul Hatton)

    I therefore decided to only allow approved sites. I have to say, this has been the only element of my Google Family Link experience that has been a pain. I was hoping to just copy and paste URLs into the app and let Google take care of the rest. Unfortunately, that didn’t work. Because a lot of sites have subdomains, especially Microsoft websites, I found that unless I entered all the specific URLs, Family Link wasn’t clever enough to be able to implement what I needed it to.

    I eventually got it working and was glad that my son was able to request access to specific websites simply by typing them into Chrome and selecting ‘Request Access’. That took care of any that I missed. The request pops up on my phone, and as soon as I approve it, he can access the site straight away.

    A safety platform that evolves

    One of the best things about Google Family Link is how easy it is to add restrictions as well as remove them. As my child gets older, I’ll want to give him more freedoms, and with the app, it's simple and straightforward for me to do so.

    With child-friendly phones, they always have the risk of being 'childish' and will therefore quickly become outdated for your child. With Google Family Link, it’s possible to make any phone child-safe, whether they have the latest Samsung Galaxy or a generations-old Google Pixel.

    I'm glad, then, that rather than buying some expensive new child-specific phone, I settled on an app that allows my son to use a 'normal-looking' Android smartphone that I can control remotely. Google Family Link isn't perfect, but it's the easiest and most feature-packed solution to child safety I've come across so far.

    ]]>     https://www.techradar.com/phones/i-wanted-to-lock-down-99-percent-of-my-childs-phone-and-with-google-family-link-that-was-easier-than-i-expected G29JuPRv9pYXcM68BZTPmd Sat, 03 Oct 2026 15:00:00 +0000 false false false

    The pressure to get my son a phone arrived sooner than I was expecting. He was barely halfway through Year 6 (that's 5th Grade for any American readers), and his friends started taking their newly acquired smartphones on trips to the park, when previously their hands would be full of footballs and frisbees. I felt like I had missed a parent’s meeting where it was decided that this was the life we wanted for our kids.

    The realization that I was well behind the curve in this area kickstarted a lot of late-night Googling, where I spent hours researching the best phone for my son. I initially thought I’d just get him a dumb phone. At least then I could pretty much guarantee protecting him from harmful content. But this wouldn’t have allowed me to track his location, and for safety reasons, that was a non-negotiable for me.

    Then I discovered child-friendly phones like the British-designed Sayph or the more well-known HMD Fuse. These types of phones enable parents to restrict app use, create a whitelist of contacts, and even create a school mode. They also often have additional filters for blocking inappropriate content. I liked the idea, but the handset options were limited.

    It was only then that I stumbled across the Google Family Link app, which enables parents and their children to create healthy, positive digital habits. Through simple, user-friendly tools, you can do almost everything that a dedicated child-friendly phone can with Family Link, and if you use it to the fullest, you can create a safe online environment for your child.

    Google Family Link works across Android, ChromeOS, and iOS devices — the child's phone, however, must be an Android device, since Google doesn't offer the 'kids' version of the Family Link app for iOS; only the 'parent' version.

    I’m not a helicopter parent, honest!

    I’m sure I’m not the only one who likes to know where their child is. The advent of GPS has not only made it possible to track your child but also made it feel slightly creepy to do so. The fact that you know where they are without them knowing where you are feels slightly odd. But then again, they are your children, and you’ve been tasked with keeping them safe.

    Google Family Link

    (Image credit: Future / Paul Hatton)

    I like to know whether my son has arrived at school, if he’s still at the park, or which friend's house he’s decided to go to. As much as I want to know where he is, I don’t want him feeling that he’s got to be constantly on his phone texting me updates. That would go against my desire to keep him as screen-free as possible for as long as possible.

    This is where Google Family Link becomes your ally. With it, you can not only keep an eye on their location but also create specific places named Family Places. Whenever your child enters or leaves these locations, the parent receives a notification. With that, you can keep a loose eye on them without following their little avatar on Google Maps as they cycle to school. Full disclaimer: yes, I have done that as well.

    "No, I’m not giving you access to that app”

    Given this was going to be my son’s first ever experience of a smartphone, I was keen to only give him the very basics. I didn’t want to provide access to anything that was remotely addictive for fear that he wouldn’t be able to put the phone down. I was surprised how easy it was to achieve this with Google Family Link.

    All I had to do was navigate to the ‘Block and limit apps’ tab to see a full list of available apps on his phone. From there, I was able to select an individual app and either block it completely or set a daily time limit. The interface is incredibly well laid out, such that even the least tech-confident parent could manage to navigate it.

    Google Family Link

    (Image credit: Future / Paul Hatton)

    I also wanted some level of control over his contacts. Okay, now I really am starting to sound like a control freak. With Family Link, you can not only set ground rules for incoming and outgoing calls and texts but also require any contact to be approved before they can be contacted.

    The text interactions my child might have then got me thinking about issues he might run into with group chats. I’m sure we’ve all read the stories of bullying and inappropriate sharing of private photos, and I didn’t want my son to be exposed to this.

    I was therefore grateful to see that Google offers sensitive content warnings, which add a layer of protection for Google Messages that blurs incoming nude photos and discourages the sending of nude photos. I can’t comment on its effectiveness, although it’s nice to know it’s there. It’s worth noting that many child-specific phones offer greater levels of nudity protection, if this is a concern of yours.

    Locking down websites because the world is a scary place

    My son needs ongoing access to some select websites to be able to do his homework, but beyond this, I was able to control which sites he was able to visit when signed in to Chrome. The app enables you to activate a filter that blocks explicit sites, although even Google admits in the app that “No filter is perfect.”

    Google Family Link

    (Image credit: Future / Paul Hatton)

    I therefore decided to only allow approved sites. I have to say, this has been the only element of my Google Family Link experience that has been a pain. I was hoping to just copy and paste URLs into the app and let Google take care of the rest. Unfortunately, that didn’t work. Because a lot of sites have subdomains, especially Microsoft websites, I found that unless I entered all the specific URLs, Family Link wasn’t clever enough to be able to implement what I needed it to.

    I eventually got it working and was glad that my son was able to request access to specific websites simply by typing them into Chrome and selecting ‘Request Access’. That took care of any that I missed. The request pops up on my phone, and as soon as I approve it, he can access the site straight away.

    A safety platform that evolves

    One of the best things about Google Family Link is how easy it is to add restrictions as well as remove them. As my child gets older, I’ll want to give him more freedoms, and with the app, it's simple and straightforward for me to do so.

    With child-friendly phones, they always have the risk of being 'childish' and will therefore quickly become outdated for your child. With Google Family Link, it’s possible to make any phone child-safe, whether they have the latest Samsung Galaxy or a generations-old Google Pixel.

    I'm glad, then, that rather than buying some expensive new child-specific phone, I settled on an app that allows my son to use a 'normal-looking' Android smartphone that I can control remotely. Google Family Link isn't perfect, but it's the easiest and most feature-packed solution to child safety I've come across so far.

    ]]>     <![CDATA[ Anker Nano 45W Smart Display Charger review: a quirky and compact charging companion ]]> Anker Nano 45W Smart Display Charger review

    Anker’s back with another quirky, display-equipped charger that somehow adds a splash of fun into the process of juicing up your phone. I’ve spent a week testing it out at home, using it to revive a number of devices, and it’s impressed me overall — but is it worth the money? Stick around for my verdict.

    Let’s start with the display, which is the big selling point of this model. First of all, there’s a lil’ charging blob character that appears, and expresses a variety of emotions depending on charging status, temperature and so on. This adds a bit of charisma and charm to the charger that most plain white or black blocks just don’t exude.

    The display itself is bright, responsive, and well-sized — but it’s not just here for fun, it’s also pretty informative. You can touch a button next to the screen to get the visual on a range of factors — like power output and temperature. But you can also use it to toggle on Care Mode, which keeps the charger about 20°C cooler than international safety limits allow, and your actual device’s battery around 5°C cooler, which can protect your devices’ long-term battery health. That in itself is a function that even some of the best iPhone chargers skip on.

    In practice, I never found that this model got too hot when in use, even in spite of its small size. Speaking of its size, this charger has a brilliantly compact form factor. It has a considerably smaller footprint than a lot of 45W chargers on the market, making it ideal for use in tight spaces or taking on the go. My only nitpick would be that the UK model I tested doesn’t have foldable prongs. This isn’t ideal if you want to stow the charger in your pocket, as the prongs can cause discomfort when pressed against you, though it’s worth flagging that the US variant folds away fully.

    In terms of performance, this charger works as well as you’d hope. I tried charging my Samsung Galaxy S24 FE, which has a battery capacity of 4,700mAh. It brought the phone back to life just as quickly as I’d anticipated (about 80 minutes from 0%). However, my main device, the Xiaomi 17, cannot charge at maximum capacity with this model. That phone supports 100W wired charging, so if you have a device with similarly advanced charging capabilities, then it may be worth looking for something with a higher total power output, like the Anker Prime 100W GaN Wall Charger.

    Something else worth noting is that this charger has a single USB-C port, so you can only charge one device at a time. That’s fine if you just want a simple phone charger, but there are models that let you charge your phone and other devices simultaneously, like the UGreen Nexode Charger 65W with Retractable USB-C Cable.

    Still, there’s a lot to admire about this compact charger. For example, this model has dynamic, three-stage charging, with a Fast, Steady, and Trickle mode, automatically supplying your device with the power it needs in a safe, managed way. There’s also smart device recognition for iPhones, meaning that the charger can recognize your specific model, and will display it on the screen. Free updates are also planned to recognize upcoming iPhone models.

    Another thing I love about the Anker Nano 45W is its look. It comes in a range of color options, intended to mirror those of the iPhone 17 line, and they all look fantastic. I used the Orange model, which is bold and eye-catching, but also built to a high standard. This helps to justify the $39.99 / £34.99 (about AU$55), which is by no means cheap, but fair for the quality and performance you get in return.

    All in all, the Anker Nano 45W Smart Display Charger is a very solid model that supplies consistent and reliable performance, considerable visual flair, and an informative, personality-filled display. It’s not the most powerful option on the market, but if 45W is all you need, and you’re fine with a single USB-C port, then I’d certainly recommend it.

    Anker Nano 45W Smart Display Charger against pink background

    (Image credit: Future)

    Anker Nano 45W Smart Display Charger review: price & specs

    Price

    $39.99 / £34.99 (about AU$55)

    Total power output

    45W

    Number of ports

    1

    Port type(s)

    USB-C

    Dimensions

    3 x 1.4 x 1.3 inches / 77.3 x 35.8 x 34mm

    Anker logo on the Anker Nano 45W Smart Display Charger

    (Image credit: Future)

    Should I buy the Anker Nano 45W Smart Display Charger?

    Buy it if…

    You want an ultra-compact charger for travel
    The Anker Nano 45W Smart Display charger is incredibly compact and very lightweight, making it ideal for taking on the go. Its small size also makes it ideal for slotting into tighter spaces, say if your power outlet is close to your desk.

    You want a charger with character
    This charger has an emotive, personality-filled display, and comes in a range of funky colors — including the Orange model I tested, which is my personal favorite.

    Don't buy it if…

    You need to charge multiple devices at once
    This model from Anker has a single USB-C port, meaning you can only charge one device at a time. There are plenty of rivals with multiple ports if you want to juice up your phone as well as a pair of wireless earbuds, for example, without having to revive them individually. If you need multi-device charging, check out my recommendation in the ‘also consider’ section.

    You have a particularly power-hungry handset
    My Xiaomi 17 phone supports wired charging up to 100W, so this Anker model can’t provide me with top-level performance. While 45W is plenty for a lot of flagships, such as the iPhone 17 Pro Max, look elsewhere for peak performance. My personal go-to is the UGreen Uno Charger 100W.

    Anker Nano 45W Smart Display Charger review: also consider

    UGreen Nexode RG 65W
    Need a bit more power, but still want a charger with a fun display? Then look no further than the UGreen Nexode RG 65W. It can be found for a very similar price as the Anker Nano 45W Smart Display Charger, has three ports (two USB-C and one USB-A) for juicing up multiple devices at once, and will make quirky faces at you while bringing your gadgets back to life. Read my full UGreen Nexode RG 65W review.

    ]]>     https://www.techradar.com/phones/phone-accessories/anker-nano-45w-smart-display-charger-review XNjBDeaxLW7tN7nLRNHAff Sat, 03 Oct 2026 15:00:00 +0000 false false false

    Anker Nano 45W Smart Display Charger review

    Anker’s back with another quirky, display-equipped charger that somehow adds a splash of fun into the process of juicing up your phone. I’ve spent a week testing it out at home, using it to revive a number of devices, and it’s impressed me overall — but is it worth the money? Stick around for my verdict.

    Let’s start with the display, which is the big selling point of this model. First of all, there’s a lil’ charging blob character that appears, and expresses a variety of emotions depending on charging status, temperature and so on. This adds a bit of charisma and charm to the charger that most plain white or black blocks just don’t exude.

    The display itself is bright, responsive, and well-sized — but it’s not just here for fun, it’s also pretty informative. You can touch a button next to the screen to get the visual on a range of factors — like power output and temperature. But you can also use it to toggle on Care Mode, which keeps the charger about 20°C cooler than international safety limits allow, and your actual device’s battery around 5°C cooler, which can protect your devices’ long-term battery health. That in itself is a function that even some of the best iPhone chargers skip on.

    In practice, I never found that this model got too hot when in use, even in spite of its small size. Speaking of its size, this charger has a brilliantly compact form factor. It has a considerably smaller footprint than a lot of 45W chargers on the market, making it ideal for use in tight spaces or taking on the go. My only nitpick would be that the UK model I tested doesn’t have foldable prongs. This isn’t ideal if you want to stow the charger in your pocket, as the prongs can cause discomfort when pressed against you, though it’s worth flagging that the US variant folds away fully.

    In terms of performance, this charger works as well as you’d hope. I tried charging my Samsung Galaxy S24 FE, which has a battery capacity of 4,700mAh. It brought the phone back to life just as quickly as I’d anticipated (about 80 minutes from 0%). However, my main device, the Xiaomi 17, cannot charge at maximum capacity with this model. That phone supports 100W wired charging, so if you have a device with similarly advanced charging capabilities, then it may be worth looking for something with a higher total power output, like the Anker Prime 100W GaN Wall Charger.

    Something else worth noting is that this charger has a single USB-C port, so you can only charge one device at a time. That’s fine if you just want a simple phone charger, but there are models that let you charge your phone and other devices simultaneously, like the UGreen Nexode Charger 65W with Retractable USB-C Cable.

    Still, there’s a lot to admire about this compact charger. For example, this model has dynamic, three-stage charging, with a Fast, Steady, and Trickle mode, automatically supplying your device with the power it needs in a safe, managed way. There’s also smart device recognition for iPhones, meaning that the charger can recognize your specific model, and will display it on the screen. Free updates are also planned to recognize upcoming iPhone models.

    Another thing I love about the Anker Nano 45W is its look. It comes in a range of color options, intended to mirror those of the iPhone 17 line, and they all look fantastic. I used the Orange model, which is bold and eye-catching, but also built to a high standard. This helps to justify the $39.99 / £34.99 (about AU$55), which is by no means cheap, but fair for the quality and performance you get in return.

    All in all, the Anker Nano 45W Smart Display Charger is a very solid model that supplies consistent and reliable performance, considerable visual flair, and an informative, personality-filled display. It’s not the most powerful option on the market, but if 45W is all you need, and you’re fine with a single USB-C port, then I’d certainly recommend it.

    Anker Nano 45W Smart Display Charger against pink background

    (Image credit: Future)

    Anker Nano 45W Smart Display Charger review: price & specs

    Price

    $39.99 / £34.99 (about AU$55)

    Total power output

    45W

    Number of ports

    1

    Port type(s)

    USB-C

    Dimensions

    3 x 1.4 x 1.3 inches / 77.3 x 35.8 x 34mm

    Anker logo on the Anker Nano 45W Smart Display Charger

    (Image credit: Future)

    Should I buy the Anker Nano 45W Smart Display Charger?

    Buy it if…

    You want an ultra-compact charger for travel
    The Anker Nano 45W Smart Display charger is incredibly compact and very lightweight, making it ideal for taking on the go. Its small size also makes it ideal for slotting into tighter spaces, say if your power outlet is close to your desk.

    You want a charger with character
    This charger has an emotive, personality-filled display, and comes in a range of funky colors — including the Orange model I tested, which is my personal favorite.

    Don't buy it if…

    You need to charge multiple devices at once
    This model from Anker has a single USB-C port, meaning you can only charge one device at a time. There are plenty of rivals with multiple ports if you want to juice up your phone as well as a pair of wireless earbuds, for example, without having to revive them individually. If you need multi-device charging, check out my recommendation in the ‘also consider’ section.

    You have a particularly power-hungry handset
    My Xiaomi 17 phone supports wired charging up to 100W, so this Anker model can’t provide me with top-level performance. While 45W is plenty for a lot of flagships, such as the iPhone 17 Pro Max, look elsewhere for peak performance. My personal go-to is the UGreen Uno Charger 100W.

    Anker Nano 45W Smart Display Charger review: also consider

    UGreen Nexode RG 65W
    Need a bit more power, but still want a charger with a fun display? Then look no further than the UGreen Nexode RG 65W. It can be found for a very similar price as the Anker Nano 45W Smart Display Charger, has three ports (two USB-C and one USB-A) for juicing up multiple devices at once, and will make quirky faces at you while bringing your gadgets back to life. Read my full UGreen Nexode RG 65W review.

    ]]>     <![CDATA[ How to watch Super League Grand Final 2026: Live stream Warrington vs Wakefield ]]>
  • Watch Super League Grand Final 2026 on Sky Sports (UK)
  • Unlock your stream with NordVPN (save 75%)
  • Warrington vs Wakefield kick-off: Sat, Oct 3 at 1pm ET / 6pm BST

    • A new name is guaranteed to be etched onto the Super League Trophy on Saturday, as four time runners-up Warrington take on first-time Grand Finalists Wakefield at Old Trafford. It's safe to assume that the Wolves won't be expecting a great deal of neutral backing.

    It's not just that Trinity are major underdogs – they were a Championship side until last year – it's the respective routes each side took to the Super League Grand Final.

    Warrington's semi-final clash with the injury-depleted Rhinos was shaping up to be a classic before Wolves captain George Williams hit the deck under the slightest contact. It was the sort of chicanery that needs to be stamped out of football, not adopted by rugby, and it decided the game, 18-year-old Ewan Irwin slotting home the resulting penalty.

    As if Wakefield dashing Wigan's treble hopes wasn't enough of a shock, they did it in jaw-dropping fashion. Daryl Powell carried the look of a condemned man when Jazz Tevaga was sin-binned early and the Warriors raced into the lead, but what followed was nothing short of extraordinary.

    In Wigan's own backyard, Trinity reeled off five straight tries and 33 unanswered points, Tom Johnstone's superb double and Jack Sinfield's effort being the picks of the bunch. It's worth reiterating that Wigan had gone into the match on a 16-game winning run.

    The involvement of Powell adds another layer of fun to proceedings, Wakefield's coach having endured a brief and unhappy spell with Warrington. The result that sealed his fate? A defeat by Wakefield.

    Read on as we explain how to watch Warrington vs Wakefield in the 2026 Super League Grand Final.

    How to watch Super League Grand Final 2026 from anywhere

    A VPN is handy piece of software that can make your device appear as if it's back in your home country, so you can unlock your usual service. The best VPN right now? We recommend NordVPN – it does everything and comes with up to 75% off.

    🟩 NordVPN – get the world's best VPN

    Not having a VPN is like leaving your front door wide open in a busy city – anyone can walk right in and take a peek.

    TechRadar regularly reviews all the biggest and best VPN providers and NordVPN is our #1 choice.

    ✅ Up to 75% off today
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    Get NordVPN and stream Super League Grand Final 2026 from anywhere.View Deal

    How to watch Super League Grand Final 2026 live streams in the US

    US flag banner

    Rugby league fans in the US can watch Super League Grand Final 2026 on dedicated streaming platform SuperLeague+. It's a £7.99 (~ $9.40) PPV.

    Alternatively, Warrington vs Wakefield will be shown on tape-delay on Fox Soccer Plus and Fox One. The game kicks off at 1pm ET / 10am PT, but will air in full at 7pm ET / 4pm PT instead.

    Fox One starts at $19.99/month or $99/year after a 3-day free trial.

    Fox Soccer Plus is carried by several OTT streaming platforms, such as YouTube TV and Fubo, each of which offers new customers a free trial.

    Sling TV's $19.99/month Select and $45.99/month Blue plans also include access to the Fox One app.

    Outside of the US? Use a VPN whilst you're traveling away from home to unlock your stream.

    How to watch Super League Grand Final 2026 live streams in the UK

    uk flag

    The 2026 Super League Grand Final is available to watch on Sky Sports Main Event and Sky Sports+ in the UK.

    Sky Sports packages start at £35/month, with £24/month pricing available to existing Sky customers. You can also tune in via a NOW Sports membership that carries the Sky Sports channels.

    The Warrington vs Wakefield clash is also available through SuperLeague+ as a £7.99 PPV.

    Alternatively, the free-to-air BBC Red Button will air a one-hour highlights show at 11pm BST, with streaming available via BBC iPlayer. The highlights show will air again at 1.45pm BST on Sunday on BBC Two.

    All you need is an account, a TV license and a UK postcode (e.g.HA9 0WS). Sign up here.

    Away from home? Unlock your Super League Grand Final stream with NordVPN.

    How to watch Super League Grand Final 2026 live streams in Australia

    Australia flag banner

    In Australia, Super League Grand Final 2026 is being shown on Fox League 502 via Foxtel, with live streaming available via Kayo Sports.

    Kayo Sports subscriptions start at AU$30 per month after a 7-day free trial. Alternatively, you can opt to get your first month for AU$1 instead.

    Not in Australia right now? You can simply use a VPN like NordVPN to watch the action as if you were back home.

    How to watch Super League Grand Final 2026 live streams in Canada

    Canada

    (Image credit: Other)

    The 2026 Super League Grand Final is available to watch on Sportsnet in Canada.

    If you don't have cable, the Sportsnet+ streaming service starts at CA$34.99/month or CA$269.99/year to access what goes out on Sportsnet channels.

    The Warrington vs Wakefield game is also available to stream live on SuperLeague+ for a £7.99 (~CA$15) PPV fee.

    If you're out of Canada but still want to tune in, explore the VPN route set out above, which will help you access your accounts from anywhere.

    Can you watch Super League Grand Final 2026 for free?

    Unfortunately, the 2026 Super League Grand Final is locked behind a paywall.

    However, extended highlights will be available on free-to-air BBC iPlayer from 11pm BST on the day.

    What is the Super League Grand Final 2026 start time?

    The scheduled Super League Grand Final kick-off time on Saturday, October 3 is 6pm BST local time in Manchester, which is 10am PT / 1pm ET.

    That's 4am AEDT on Sunday, October 4 in Australia.

    What is the Warrington vs Wakefield head-to-head?

    The Wolves and Trinity have faced off on 163 previous occasions. Warrington won 88 of those games, and Wakefield 72. Three finished all-square.

    This season, the head-to-head stands at 1-1.

    Can I watch Super League Grand Final 2026 on my mobile?

    Of course, most broadcasters have streaming platforms that you can access through mobile apps or via your phone's browser.

    You can also stay up-to-date with all things Super League on the official social media channels on Instagram (@SuperLeague), YouTube (@SLhighlights) and Facebook (@RLSuperLeague).

    We test and review VPN services in the context of legal recreational uses. For example:1. Accessing a service from another country (subject to the terms and conditions of that service).2. Protecting your online security and strengthening your online privacy when abroad.We do not support or condone the illegal or malicious use of VPN services. Consuming pirated content that is paid-for is neither endorsed nor approved by Future Publishing.

    ]]>     https://www.techradar.com/how-to-watch/rugby/super-league-grand-final-2026-warrington-wolves-vs-wakefield-trinity UWcVzCQdJ32jRgpER8aPWL Sat, 03 Oct 2026 14:00:00 +0000 false false false

    A new name is guaranteed to be etched onto the Super League Trophy on Saturday, as four time runners-up Warrington take on first-time Grand Finalists Wakefield at Old Trafford. It's safe to assume that the Wolves won't be expecting a great deal of neutral backing.

    It's not just that Trinity are major underdogs – they were a Championship side until last year – it's the respective routes each side took to the Super League Grand Final.

    Warrington's semi-final clash with the injury-depleted Rhinos was shaping up to be a classic before Wolves captain George Williams hit the deck under the slightest contact. It was the sort of chicanery that needs to be stamped out of football, not adopted by rugby, and it decided the game, 18-year-old Ewan Irwin slotting home the resulting penalty.

    As if Wakefield dashing Wigan's treble hopes wasn't enough of a shock, they did it in jaw-dropping fashion. Daryl Powell carried the look of a condemned man when Jazz Tevaga was sin-binned early and the Warriors raced into the lead, but what followed was nothing short of extraordinary.

    In Wigan's own backyard, Trinity reeled off five straight tries and 33 unanswered points, Tom Johnstone's superb double and Jack Sinfield's effort being the picks of the bunch. It's worth reiterating that Wigan had gone into the match on a 16-game winning run.

    The involvement of Powell adds another layer of fun to proceedings, Wakefield's coach having endured a brief and unhappy spell with Warrington. The result that sealed his fate? A defeat by Wakefield.

    Read on as we explain how to watch Warrington vs Wakefield in the 2026 Super League Grand Final.

    How to watch Super League Grand Final 2026 from anywhere

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    How to watch Super League Grand Final 2026 live streams in the US

    US flag banner

    Rugby league fans in the US can watch Super League Grand Final 2026 on dedicated streaming platform SuperLeague+. It's a £7.99 (~ $9.40) PPV.

    Alternatively, Warrington vs Wakefield will be shown on tape-delay on Fox Soccer Plus and Fox One. The game kicks off at 1pm ET / 10am PT, but will air in full at 7pm ET / 4pm PT instead.

    Fox One starts at $19.99/month or $99/year after a 3-day free trial.

    Fox Soccer Plus is carried by several OTT streaming platforms, such as YouTube TV and Fubo, each of which offers new customers a free trial.

    Sling TV's $19.99/month Select and $45.99/month Blue plans also include access to the Fox One app.

    Outside of the US? Use a VPN whilst you're traveling away from home to unlock your stream.

    How to watch Super League Grand Final 2026 live streams in the UK

    uk flag

    The 2026 Super League Grand Final is available to watch on Sky Sports Main Event and Sky Sports+ in the UK.

    Sky Sports packages start at £35/month, with £24/month pricing available to existing Sky customers. You can also tune in via a NOW Sports membership that carries the Sky Sports channels.

    The Warrington vs Wakefield clash is also available through SuperLeague+ as a £7.99 PPV.

    Alternatively, the free-to-air BBC Red Button will air a one-hour highlights show at 11pm BST, with streaming available via BBC iPlayer. The highlights show will air again at 1.45pm BST on Sunday on BBC Two.

    All you need is an account, a TV license and a UK postcode (e.g.HA9 0WS). Sign up here.

    Away from home? Unlock your Super League Grand Final stream with NordVPN.

    How to watch Super League Grand Final 2026 live streams in Australia

    Australia flag banner

    In Australia, Super League Grand Final 2026 is being shown on Fox League 502 via Foxtel, with live streaming available via Kayo Sports.

    Kayo Sports subscriptions start at AU$30 per month after a 7-day free trial. Alternatively, you can opt to get your first month for AU$1 instead.

    Not in Australia right now? You can simply use a VPN like NordVPN to watch the action as if you were back home.

    How to watch Super League Grand Final 2026 live streams in Canada

    Canada

    (Image credit: Other)

    The 2026 Super League Grand Final is available to watch on Sportsnet in Canada.

    If you don't have cable, the Sportsnet+ streaming service starts at CA$34.99/month or CA$269.99/year to access what goes out on Sportsnet channels.

    The Warrington vs Wakefield game is also available to stream live on SuperLeague+ for a £7.99 (~CA$15) PPV fee.

    If you're out of Canada but still want to tune in, explore the VPN route set out above, which will help you access your accounts from anywhere.

    Can you watch Super League Grand Final 2026 for free?

    Unfortunately, the 2026 Super League Grand Final is locked behind a paywall.

    However, extended highlights will be available on free-to-air BBC iPlayer from 11pm BST on the day.

    What is the Super League Grand Final 2026 start time?

    The scheduled Super League Grand Final kick-off time on Saturday, October 3 is 6pm BST local time in Manchester, which is 10am PT / 1pm ET.

    That's 4am AEDT on Sunday, October 4 in Australia.

    What is the Warrington vs Wakefield head-to-head?

    The Wolves and Trinity have faced off on 163 previous occasions. Warrington won 88 of those games, and Wakefield 72. Three finished all-square.

    This season, the head-to-head stands at 1-1.

    Can I watch Super League Grand Final 2026 on my mobile?

    Of course, most broadcasters have streaming platforms that you can access through mobile apps or via your phone's browser.

    You can also stay up-to-date with all things Super League on the official social media channels on Instagram (@SuperLeague), YouTube (@SLhighlights) and Facebook (@RLSuperLeague).

    We test and review VPN services in the context of legal recreational uses. For example:1. Accessing a service from another country (subject to the terms and conditions of that service).2. Protecting your online security and strengthening your online privacy when abroad.We do not support or condone the illegal or malicious use of VPN services. Consuming pirated content that is paid-for is neither endorsed nor approved by Future Publishing.

    ]]>     <![CDATA[ Return of the hot hatch heroes — I drove the Kia EV4 and Peugeot E-208 GTi ]]> Only recently, the internet was ablaze with news that Volkswagen will be applying a proper GTI badge to both its ID.3 and electric Polo models, the former of which will be the most powerful car to wear the iconic insignia.

    Granted, that’s not quite VW committing to a fully-electric Golf GTI, but it’s about as close as we are going to get for now.

    Often considered the king of the hot hatches, a Golf GTI has long offered the blueprint for high-performance, everyday vehicles that will carry out mundane hatchback duties without complaint, but will happily transform into grin-inducing back-road destroyers when the mood takes.

    Peugeot E-208 GTi

    (Image credit: Peugeot)

    But the German marque isn’t the only one to enjoy hero status when it comes to small, feisty automobiles, as Peugeot also enjoys a long and illustrious history with a GTi badge of its own.

    It's fitting, then, that Peugeot should also unveil its own electrified hatchback with those unmistakable three letters stamped upon its rump.

    The sub-£35,000 Peugeot E-208 GTi (around $46,300 / AU$66,000) is further proof that rapid, affordable small cars are very much back on the menu.

    The French firecracker

    Peugeot E-208 GTi

    (Image credit: Peugeot)

    Unlike numerous EV startups, as well as many established automotive players, Peugeot has enjoyed a long and fruitful love affair with both motorsports and the souped-up road-going creations that have been spawned.

    The latest E-208 GTi, despite lacking an internal combustion engine, can trace its roots back to the very first 604 GTi of the early 1980s, the OG 205 GTi and, of course, the respected 308 and 208 GTi models that spanned 2013 to the early 2020s.

    This electrified hot hatch starts with the same basic 54kWh battery as the regular E-208, but Peugeot Sport (responsible for the French marque’s endurance racing program) has substantially reworked the powertrain, battery management and chassis around it.

    Peugeot E-208 GTi

    (Image credit: Peugeot)

    The culmination of all this is a vehicle that feels destined to tackle fun, twisty routes.

    The electric motor, which is mounted to the front axle, produces 281PS (around 278bhp) and 345Nm of torque. The result is a 0-62mph time of 5.5 seconds and a top speed of 112mph.

    Peugeot quotes 182bhp per ton, which, while not quite as featherweight as its GTi-badged forebears, is still a good deal lighter than the majority of bloated performance EVs on the market.

    The culmination of all this is a vehicle that feels destined to tackle fun, twisty routes, with enough power to raise smiles but not so much that the driver feels like they are hanging on for dear life.

    This is made possible by the fact that Peugeot Sport has comprehensively reworked the chassis, lowering the car by 30mm and widening the tracks by 56mm at the front and around 28mm at the rear.

    Peugeot E-208 GTi

    (Image credit: Peugeot)

    The springs, dampers, steering and anti-roll bars have all been recalibrated, while a mechanical limited-slip differential is integrated into the gear reducer to corral the machine around corners.

    Depress the accelerator and the E-208 GTi scampers off the line with puppy-like enthusiasm.

    It isn’t Tesla Ludicrous levels of neck-snapping acceleration, but the whiff of torque steer and minor loss of traction as the front wheels spin up immediately cast minds back to the halcyon days of those legendary Renault RS, GTi and SRi badges.

    To further aid driver involvement, Peugeot Sport didn’t want to muddy the performance waters with vague regenerative braking. So, when Sport Mode is selected, the E-208 GTi relies solely on its hydraulic braking system, with 355mm front discs and fixed four-piston calipers.

    Up in the rain-soaked hills of Scotland, the E-208 GTi came alive, tucking into corners and propelling out of them like a go-kart. Hours and hours of fun.

    The brakes might not be endowed with phenomenal feel and feedback, but they inspire tons of confidence, while the limited-slip differential and gently guiding traction control keep lead-footed drivers largely out of trouble.

    There’s no fake gearbox to contend with, but a subtle synthesized engine note acts as a soundtrack in Sport Mode. It’s not as booming or in-your-face as Kia’s (more on that later), but does a good job of keeping EV motion sickness at bay.

    Everyday thrills

    Peugeot E-208 GTi

    (Image credit: Peugeot)

    Despite the sports seats and gloriously retro GTi badging throughout the cabin of the warmed-up E-208, this remains a car that can be used every day. There’s room in the back for two adults, a decent-sized trunk and all the infotainment modern conveniences you could want.

    Alas, driving like your pants are on fire will seriously eat into the 233-mile WLTP range, with enthusiastic journalists on this particular test drive returning from the roughly 90-mile Scottish route with a mere 5% battery remaining. That's shocking.

    But Peugeot says you won’t have to wait too long to charge it, with a 20-80% session taking less than 30 minutes from a 100kW outlet.

    If all that sounds like too much of a compromise for some red-hot electric fun, Kia has a slightly more “sensible” option.

    Kia EV4 GT
    Kia
    Kia EV4 GT
    Kia
    Kia EV4 GT
    Kia
    Kia EV4 GT
    Kia
    Kia EV4 GT
    Kia
    Kia EV4 GT
    Kia

    Its latest EV4 GT, which borrows heavily from Hyundai’s N performance division, offers a more usable 313 miles of official range from its much larger 81.4kWh NMC battery.

    There’s a 145kW permanent-magnet motor at the front producing 283Nm, joined by a 70kW rear induction motor making 185Nm.

    Combined output is 215kW, or 288bhp, with 468Nm of torque. That’s enough for 0-62mph in 5.6 seconds, while 50-75mph takes just 3.9 seconds.

    It is undeniably heavier than the lithe Peugeot and it certainly feels it, but the extra punch from the dual motors makes it feel equally brisk off the line.

    Like Peugeot’s sporting division, Kia has also introduced a comprehensive chassis overhaul, including electronically controlled suspension, adaptive dampers, hydraulic bushings and electronically controlled Dynamic Torque Vectoring Control.

    Kia EV4 GT

    (Image credit: Kia)

    Pile on the revs and it’s possible to hit a purely virtual “limiter".

    There are also larger 325mm brakes and a six-speed Virtual Gear Shift system borrowed from Hyundai’s N division, designed to make the power delivery feel more familiar to anyone used to a performance gas-powered car.

    Pile on the revs and it’s possible to hit a purely virtual “limiter", while the paddles behind the steering wheel transform from regenerative braking adjusters in regular modes to a full-on flappy-paddle gearbox when the shiny GT button on the steering wheel is pressed.

    Compared with the E-208 GTi, it’s the more comfortable daily cruiser, too, with bags of room in the rear for passengers and an ultra-modern, comfortable cabin that’s perfect for longer trips.

    Kia EV4 GT

    (Image credit: Kia)

    Regardless, on the winding roads of southern France, the EV4 GT’s hottest modes proved more than tempting and, despite being the larger and heavier vehicle, it still managed to prove that electric vehicles can be so much more than one-trick drag-strip ponies.

    However, Kia is asking around £49,345 (around $65,300 / AU$93,100) for its souped-up EV, which is almost £15,000 (around $19,850 / AU$28,300) more than the Peugeot E-208 GTi. The latter was by far the most fun, if you can overlook the terrible range.

    But with manufacturers now clearly placing an emphasis on more affordable and genuinely entertaining small EVs, it looks like driving enthusiasts will soon have arguably the most tempting shortlist there has ever been.

    And for that, I’m grateful.

    ]]>     https://www.techradar.com/vehicle-tech/hybrid-electric-vehicles/ive-driven-the-peugeot-208-gti-and-kias-latest-ev4-gt-and-these-pocket-rockets-are-throwing-it-back-to-the-golden-days-of-the-affordable-hot-hatch Z6YDaxWiev4XTzbohfGzLX Sat, 03 Oct 2026 14:00:00 +0000 false false false

    Only recently, the internet was ablaze with news that Volkswagen will be applying a proper GTI badge to both its ID.3 and electric Polo models, the former of which will be the most powerful car to wear the iconic insignia.

    Granted, that’s not quite VW committing to a fully-electric Golf GTI, but it’s about as close as we are going to get for now.

    Often considered the king of the hot hatches, a Golf GTI has long offered the blueprint for high-performance, everyday vehicles that will carry out mundane hatchback duties without complaint, but will happily transform into grin-inducing back-road destroyers when the mood takes.

    Peugeot E-208 GTi

    (Image credit: Peugeot)

    But the German marque isn’t the only one to enjoy hero status when it comes to small, feisty automobiles, as Peugeot also enjoys a long and illustrious history with a GTi badge of its own.

    It's fitting, then, that Peugeot should also unveil its own electrified hatchback with those unmistakable three letters stamped upon its rump.

    The sub-£35,000 Peugeot E-208 GTi (around $46,300 / AU$66,000) is further proof that rapid, affordable small cars are very much back on the menu.

    The French firecracker

    Peugeot E-208 GTi

    (Image credit: Peugeot)

    Unlike numerous EV startups, as well as many established automotive players, Peugeot has enjoyed a long and fruitful love affair with both motorsports and the souped-up road-going creations that have been spawned.

    The latest E-208 GTi, despite lacking an internal combustion engine, can trace its roots back to the very first 604 GTi of the early 1980s, the OG 205 GTi and, of course, the respected 308 and 208 GTi models that spanned 2013 to the early 2020s.

    This electrified hot hatch starts with the same basic 54kWh battery as the regular E-208, but Peugeot Sport (responsible for the French marque’s endurance racing program) has substantially reworked the powertrain, battery management and chassis around it.

    Peugeot E-208 GTi

    (Image credit: Peugeot)

    The culmination of all this is a vehicle that feels destined to tackle fun, twisty routes.

    The electric motor, which is mounted to the front axle, produces 281PS (around 278bhp) and 345Nm of torque. The result is a 0-62mph time of 5.5 seconds and a top speed of 112mph.

    Peugeot quotes 182bhp per ton, which, while not quite as featherweight as its GTi-badged forebears, is still a good deal lighter than the majority of bloated performance EVs on the market.

    The culmination of all this is a vehicle that feels destined to tackle fun, twisty routes, with enough power to raise smiles but not so much that the driver feels like they are hanging on for dear life.

    This is made possible by the fact that Peugeot Sport has comprehensively reworked the chassis, lowering the car by 30mm and widening the tracks by 56mm at the front and around 28mm at the rear.

    Peugeot E-208 GTi

    (Image credit: Peugeot)

    The springs, dampers, steering and anti-roll bars have all been recalibrated, while a mechanical limited-slip differential is integrated into the gear reducer to corral the machine around corners.

    Depress the accelerator and the E-208 GTi scampers off the line with puppy-like enthusiasm.

    It isn’t Tesla Ludicrous levels of neck-snapping acceleration, but the whiff of torque steer and minor loss of traction as the front wheels spin up immediately cast minds back to the halcyon days of those legendary Renault RS, GTi and SRi badges.

    To further aid driver involvement, Peugeot Sport didn’t want to muddy the performance waters with vague regenerative braking. So, when Sport Mode is selected, the E-208 GTi relies solely on its hydraulic braking system, with 355mm front discs and fixed four-piston calipers.

    Up in the rain-soaked hills of Scotland, the E-208 GTi came alive, tucking into corners and propelling out of them like a go-kart. Hours and hours of fun.

    The brakes might not be endowed with phenomenal feel and feedback, but they inspire tons of confidence, while the limited-slip differential and gently guiding traction control keep lead-footed drivers largely out of trouble.

    There’s no fake gearbox to contend with, but a subtle synthesized engine note acts as a soundtrack in Sport Mode. It’s not as booming or in-your-face as Kia’s (more on that later), but does a good job of keeping EV motion sickness at bay.

    Everyday thrills

    Peugeot E-208 GTi

    (Image credit: Peugeot)

    Despite the sports seats and gloriously retro GTi badging throughout the cabin of the warmed-up E-208, this remains a car that can be used every day. There’s room in the back for two adults, a decent-sized trunk and all the infotainment modern conveniences you could want.

    Alas, driving like your pants are on fire will seriously eat into the 233-mile WLTP range, with enthusiastic journalists on this particular test drive returning from the roughly 90-mile Scottish route with a mere 5% battery remaining. That's shocking.

    But Peugeot says you won’t have to wait too long to charge it, with a 20-80% session taking less than 30 minutes from a 100kW outlet.

    If all that sounds like too much of a compromise for some red-hot electric fun, Kia has a slightly more “sensible” option.

    Kia EV4 GT
    Kia
    Kia EV4 GT
    Kia
    Kia EV4 GT
    Kia
    Kia EV4 GT
    Kia
    Kia EV4 GT
    Kia
    Kia EV4 GT
    Kia

    Its latest EV4 GT, which borrows heavily from Hyundai’s N performance division, offers a more usable 313 miles of official range from its much larger 81.4kWh NMC battery.

    There’s a 145kW permanent-magnet motor at the front producing 283Nm, joined by a 70kW rear induction motor making 185Nm.

    Combined output is 215kW, or 288bhp, with 468Nm of torque. That’s enough for 0-62mph in 5.6 seconds, while 50-75mph takes just 3.9 seconds.

    It is undeniably heavier than the lithe Peugeot and it certainly feels it, but the extra punch from the dual motors makes it feel equally brisk off the line.

    Like Peugeot’s sporting division, Kia has also introduced a comprehensive chassis overhaul, including electronically controlled suspension, adaptive dampers, hydraulic bushings and electronically controlled Dynamic Torque Vectoring Control.

    Kia EV4 GT

    (Image credit: Kia)

    Pile on the revs and it’s possible to hit a purely virtual “limiter".

    There are also larger 325mm brakes and a six-speed Virtual Gear Shift system borrowed from Hyundai’s N division, designed to make the power delivery feel more familiar to anyone used to a performance gas-powered car.

    Pile on the revs and it’s possible to hit a purely virtual “limiter", while the paddles behind the steering wheel transform from regenerative braking adjusters in regular modes to a full-on flappy-paddle gearbox when the shiny GT button on the steering wheel is pressed.

    Compared with the E-208 GTi, it’s the more comfortable daily cruiser, too, with bags of room in the rear for passengers and an ultra-modern, comfortable cabin that’s perfect for longer trips.

    Kia EV4 GT

    (Image credit: Kia)

    Regardless, on the winding roads of southern France, the EV4 GT’s hottest modes proved more than tempting and, despite being the larger and heavier vehicle, it still managed to prove that electric vehicles can be so much more than one-trick drag-strip ponies.

    However, Kia is asking around £49,345 (around $65,300 / AU$93,100) for its souped-up EV, which is almost £15,000 (around $19,850 / AU$28,300) more than the Peugeot E-208 GTi. The latter was by far the most fun, if you can overlook the terrible range.

    But with manufacturers now clearly placing an emphasis on more affordable and genuinely entertaining small EVs, it looks like driving enthusiasts will soon have arguably the most tempting shortlist there has ever been.

    And for that, I’m grateful.

    ]]>     <![CDATA[ US lawmakers introduce the Ban Flock Act to block surveillance camera use ]]>
  • A new Ban Flock Act has been introduced in Congress
  • It cites privacy concerns over camera tracking systems
  • All ALPRs are covered, not just those made by Flock

    • The momentum behind banning Flock cameras and other surveillance tech continues to build, with Senators Bernie Sanders and Jeff Merkley, together with Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, filing a new Ban Flock Act that does exactly what you might expect given its name.

    As TechCrunch reports though, it goes beyond Flock: the bill covers all automatic license plate readers (ALPRs), and would stop federal agencies from acquiring, possessing, accessing or otherwise using one of these devices.

    Exceptions could be approved by Congress, the bill states, with toll collection one use case that would be exempt from the rules. If any exemptions did get cleared. data retention would be limited to 48 hours.

    The proposed ban is at the federal level, which means states and local areas could still invest in ALPR systems using their own money, if they chose to — but central government funding would then be removed, so in practice, the cameras would be banned at this level too. Private companies and use by residents associations would still be allowed.

    What happens next

    Bernie Sanders introduces bill to ban the federal government from using Flock
     from r/technology

    If you're not familiar with the workings of the US political system, the next stages are for the bill to get committee, House, and Senate approval. However, the likelihood of it passing before the end of Congress in January is slim, considering the timing and the balance of party control in both chambers.

    With that in mind, the Ban Flock Act is more of a statement of intent and opinion than anything likely to become law in the near future. There are in fact already two similar bills sitting at the committee stage that haven't made progress yet.

    Those long odds of the bill's success are reflected in reaction online, though Redditors say future laws 'should go beyond ALPRs' and there is broad support for these camera systems being regulated more tightly or banned outright.

    The accompanying press release leans heavily on privacy. "We cannot allow America to become a surveillance state," says Sanders, with the text pointing to past misuse of the cameras and data they collect — including police officers using plate readers to track wives, girlfriends, and exes.

    ]]>     https://www.techradar.com/tech/us-lawmakers-led-by-bernie-sanders-introduce-the-ban-flock-act-to-block-the-government-from-using-the-surveillance-tech-but-citizens-say-it-should-go-beyond-alprs hV998shjBVfBBizoqCBZAZ Sat, 03 Oct 2026 13:30:00 +0000 false false false
    • A new Ban Flock Act has been introduced in Congress
    • It cites privacy concerns over camera tracking systems
    • All ALPRs are covered, not just those made by Flock

    The momentum behind banning Flock cameras and other surveillance tech continues to build, with Senators Bernie Sanders and Jeff Merkley, together with Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, filing a new Ban Flock Act that does exactly what you might expect given its name.

    As TechCrunch reports though, it goes beyond Flock: the bill covers all automatic license plate readers (ALPRs), and would stop federal agencies from acquiring, possessing, accessing or otherwise using one of these devices.

    Exceptions could be approved by Congress, the bill states, with toll collection one use case that would be exempt from the rules. If any exemptions did get cleared. data retention would be limited to 48 hours.

    The proposed ban is at the federal level, which means states and local areas could still invest in ALPR systems using their own money, if they chose to — but central government funding would then be removed, so in practice, the cameras would be banned at this level too. Private companies and use by residents associations would still be allowed.

    What happens next

    Bernie Sanders introduces bill to ban the federal government from using Flock
     from r/technology

    If you're not familiar with the workings of the US political system, the next stages are for the bill to get committee, House, and Senate approval. However, the likelihood of it passing before the end of Congress in January is slim, considering the timing and the balance of party control in both chambers.

    With that in mind, the Ban Flock Act is more of a statement of intent and opinion than anything likely to become law in the near future. There are in fact already two similar bills sitting at the committee stage that haven't made progress yet.

    Those long odds of the bill's success are reflected in reaction online, though Redditors say future laws 'should go beyond ALPRs' and there is broad support for these camera systems being regulated more tightly or banned outright.

    The accompanying press release leans heavily on privacy. "We cannot allow America to become a surveillance state," says Sanders, with the text pointing to past misuse of the cameras and data they collect — including police officers using plate readers to track wives, girlfriends, and exes.

    ]]>     <![CDATA[ Monster Hunter Wilds: Ascendance is an aerial expansion that wants to push players ]]> Monster Hunter Wilds: Ascendance promises a fresh expedition into the skies, with players summoned there by the resurgence of ancient dragons and the promise of upgraded weaponry. At Tokyo Game Show 2026, I went hands-on with this upcoming expansion, getting up close and personal with the downloadable content's (DLC) interconnected aerial archipelagoes and battling against two brutal monsters with the use of the brand-new Boost Bracer.

    The demo opens in a camp, with the reliable Alma serving up two important quests: Hunt the Alpha Araketa, a level 2 monster, and Slay the Teostra, a level 5 monster. Before jumping straight into the hunt, though, it only felt right to check things out at home first. The camp itself is a visual marvel in keeping with the high standards set by the base game — something here about how it looked; check demo vids online.

    The demo is keen to focus on gameplay, though, and understandably offers little in the way of non-player character (NPC) chatter. Still, I was pleased to find a small jump across a ravine hides a barrel-rolling side game that, while unnecessary, was a fun side activity nonetheless. But I digress; it was finally time to break some monster parts.

    Falling with style

    A screenshot from Monster Hunter Wilds: Ascendance showing a mountainous landscape and floating rocks

    (Image credit: Capcom)

    The first expedition dropped me on a jagged island floating high above any visible Earth, where I was set to track the Araketa. The design of the space lands somewhere between James Cameron’s Pandora and the ruins of a medieval coastal castle. Rocky structures hang in the air above my eyeline, with aggressive tree roots tunnelling through them and disrupting their typical form.

    As I came upon an unnervingly empty open area, I spied what looked like petrified dragon wings and tails buried in the white rubble, the blistering blue sky illuminating the stone and casting a dusty screen — so much so that I could almost feel my throat dry up as I stepped through the chalky stone.

    Eventually, I spotted the Alpha, but it wasn’t alone. Typical of head honchos, the beast had two underlings, identical in species but much smaller in size.

    A screenshot from Monster Hunter Wilds: Ascendance showing a mountainous landscape and floating rocks

    (Image credit: Capcom)

    New to Monster Hunter, the Araketa is a wyvern with a smooth, stone-like exterior painted with what looks like a turquoise-and-yellow platter pattern. Unlike a typical dragon-faced beast, the Araketa features a bulbous, boulder-like head, two wings with sharp claws at the back, and a long, winding tail. While beautiful, the most important note is that all three of these extremities are used in combat.

    As I entered the battlefield and alerted the trio to my presence, the Alpha let out an ear-splitting screech before taking battle formation. As one of the underlings jumped up into the air, the Alpha and the second monster flew towards me at a startling pace. In no time, their attacks began, the younger creature attempting to headbutt me with its hammerhead, while the Alpha flanked me from behind.

    Diving side to side, the Alpha then took its turn, digging its claw into the earth and performing a spin attack that knocked me off balance. As I regained my footing, the third skybound monster, which had been suspiciously absent, used its momentum to swoop down and take a swipe, too. It was overwhelming, but exhilarating.

    A screenshot from Monster Hunter Wilds: Ascendance showing a main character in combat against a winged beast.

    (Image credit: Capcom)

    My weapon of choice for this battle was the Insect Glaive, which proved useful for platforming around their bombardment. Thankfully, as I started to feel overwhelmed, I remembered I had a new tool to flex: Boost Driver attacks.

    Another new addition to Monster Hunter Wilds is that players now wear a Boost Bracer, which enables weapon-specific special attack types. At the bottom of your screen, you’ll see a gauge with three charge slots. As you attack the monster, these slots will illuminate light blue, indicating you have charge. When in position, you can press R1, circle, and triangle in tandem to unleash a visually striking brutal attack.

    For the glaive, this saw my character throwing his body into a series of explosive shifting sweeps. Beyond the spectacle and boosted damage, the upgraded moves did well to reset momentum, and I was particularly pleased to see I didn’t need any specific resources to harness its power.

    As the battle drew to a close, I had just enough time to look around and take in the ambient wildlife of the new biome, spotting all kinds of creatures from rocky-backed alligators to fluffy, chicken-like birds.

    Among the structures, I also got to experience the new wind mechanics mentioned in the marketing material and made use of my Seikret to dive across them, which was fun if not a little rigid — perhaps I’ll have more control in the full release.

    The belly of the beast

    A screenshot from Monster Hunter Wilds: Ascendance showing three characters in dark gloominess about to fight a massive beast.

    (Image credit: Capcom)

    The second quest sent me to a wholly oppositional location. Instead of blue skies and white rock, I was met with sludge and volcanic ash plumes rising from various organic chimneys dotted across the horizon. This area was composed of tones of grey, occasionally disrupted by orange or red illuminations.

    The castle ruins had also been swapped out for what looked like giant pots, akin to Elden Ring's Iron Fist Alexander if he fell into some wet tarmac. Unlike the ambient wildlife of the first area, there was little more than Sisyphian dung beetles here, continuously rolling a solitary ball up a hill.

    Descending to the bowels of the cave system, I spotted my prey, slumbering amongst fire and brimstone. Unlike the Araketa, the Teostra isn’t new to the franchise, with the elder dragon appearing in Monster Hunter World and long before that in Monster Hunter 2. However, it is the beast's first appearance in a long time, and he’s packing some serious heat this time around.

    Before I could begin my barrage, a pop-up on screen alerted me to an unskippable step — if I didn’t drink a cool drink, I would lose health during the fight, presumably from boiling alive in my own skin. I’m happy to report that ignoring this message was a silly mistake, and it wasn’t long before I fainted and was forced to make the descent again.

    A screenshot from Monster Hunter Wilds: Ascendance showing a winged beast rearing

    (Image credit: Capcom)

    Salve applied; I dove headfirst into what already appeared to be a complicated fight. Double my height, the Teostra’s feline form was blazing, its attacks involving a mixture of fizzing fire bombs and cat-like swipes. When used in tandem, it became steadily overwhelming, and I was pleased I had my attention-stealing Palico to draw away some of the heat, both literally and metaphorically.

    To keep from burning alive, I leapt in and out of its proximity, buckling its back legs and taking huge swaths of damage — safe to say, in the twenty minutes I had to win, I was not successful. Thankfully for the sake of my pride, as I returned to the camp a loser, I noticed the player next to me was struggling against the Teostra as well; even with a different weapon and impressive dexterity, they failed to kill the beast in the time allotted.

    It’s clear Monster Hunter: Wilds Ascendance intends to escalate the hunting in the base game, enabling players to wield powerful tools in environments designed to genuinely test their preparation and survival skills. As someone who dropped off the base game after hitting credits, this expansion provides more than enough reason to kit back up and head into its refreshed, uncompromising world.

    Monster Hunter Wilds: Ascendance is releasing in 2027.

    ]]>     https://www.techradar.com/gaming/monster-hunter-wilds-ascendance-is-an-aerial-expansion-that-wants-to-push-players nYK9XnVWKPoxNgdHdtuvzQ Sat, 03 Oct 2026 13:00:00 +0000 false false false

    Monster Hunter Wilds: Ascendance promises a fresh expedition into the skies, with players summoned there by the resurgence of ancient dragons and the promise of upgraded weaponry. At Tokyo Game Show 2026, I went hands-on with this upcoming expansion, getting up close and personal with the downloadable content's (DLC) interconnected aerial archipelagoes and battling against two brutal monsters with the use of the brand-new Boost Bracer.

    The demo opens in a camp, with the reliable Alma serving up two important quests: Hunt the Alpha Araketa, a level 2 monster, and Slay the Teostra, a level 5 monster. Before jumping straight into the hunt, though, it only felt right to check things out at home first. The camp itself is a visual marvel in keeping with the high standards set by the base game — something here about how it looked; check demo vids online.

    The demo is keen to focus on gameplay, though, and understandably offers little in the way of non-player character (NPC) chatter. Still, I was pleased to find a small jump across a ravine hides a barrel-rolling side game that, while unnecessary, was a fun side activity nonetheless. But I digress; it was finally time to break some monster parts.

    Falling with style

    A screenshot from Monster Hunter Wilds: Ascendance showing a mountainous landscape and floating rocks

    (Image credit: Capcom)

    The first expedition dropped me on a jagged island floating high above any visible Earth, where I was set to track the Araketa. The design of the space lands somewhere between James Cameron’s Pandora and the ruins of a medieval coastal castle. Rocky structures hang in the air above my eyeline, with aggressive tree roots tunnelling through them and disrupting their typical form.

    As I came upon an unnervingly empty open area, I spied what looked like petrified dragon wings and tails buried in the white rubble, the blistering blue sky illuminating the stone and casting a dusty screen — so much so that I could almost feel my throat dry up as I stepped through the chalky stone.

    Eventually, I spotted the Alpha, but it wasn’t alone. Typical of head honchos, the beast had two underlings, identical in species but much smaller in size.

    A screenshot from Monster Hunter Wilds: Ascendance showing a mountainous landscape and floating rocks

    (Image credit: Capcom)

    New to Monster Hunter, the Araketa is a wyvern with a smooth, stone-like exterior painted with what looks like a turquoise-and-yellow platter pattern. Unlike a typical dragon-faced beast, the Araketa features a bulbous, boulder-like head, two wings with sharp claws at the back, and a long, winding tail. While beautiful, the most important note is that all three of these extremities are used in combat.

    As I entered the battlefield and alerted the trio to my presence, the Alpha let out an ear-splitting screech before taking battle formation. As one of the underlings jumped up into the air, the Alpha and the second monster flew towards me at a startling pace. In no time, their attacks began, the younger creature attempting to headbutt me with its hammerhead, while the Alpha flanked me from behind.

    Diving side to side, the Alpha then took its turn, digging its claw into the earth and performing a spin attack that knocked me off balance. As I regained my footing, the third skybound monster, which had been suspiciously absent, used its momentum to swoop down and take a swipe, too. It was overwhelming, but exhilarating.

    A screenshot from Monster Hunter Wilds: Ascendance showing a main character in combat against a winged beast.

    (Image credit: Capcom)

    My weapon of choice for this battle was the Insect Glaive, which proved useful for platforming around their bombardment. Thankfully, as I started to feel overwhelmed, I remembered I had a new tool to flex: Boost Driver attacks.

    Another new addition to Monster Hunter Wilds is that players now wear a Boost Bracer, which enables weapon-specific special attack types. At the bottom of your screen, you’ll see a gauge with three charge slots. As you attack the monster, these slots will illuminate light blue, indicating you have charge. When in position, you can press R1, circle, and triangle in tandem to unleash a visually striking brutal attack.

    For the glaive, this saw my character throwing his body into a series of explosive shifting sweeps. Beyond the spectacle and boosted damage, the upgraded moves did well to reset momentum, and I was particularly pleased to see I didn’t need any specific resources to harness its power.

    As the battle drew to a close, I had just enough time to look around and take in the ambient wildlife of the new biome, spotting all kinds of creatures from rocky-backed alligators to fluffy, chicken-like birds.

    Among the structures, I also got to experience the new wind mechanics mentioned in the marketing material and made use of my Seikret to dive across them, which was fun if not a little rigid — perhaps I’ll have more control in the full release.

    The belly of the beast

    A screenshot from Monster Hunter Wilds: Ascendance showing three characters in dark gloominess about to fight a massive beast.

    (Image credit: Capcom)

    The second quest sent me to a wholly oppositional location. Instead of blue skies and white rock, I was met with sludge and volcanic ash plumes rising from various organic chimneys dotted across the horizon. This area was composed of tones of grey, occasionally disrupted by orange or red illuminations.

    The castle ruins had also been swapped out for what looked like giant pots, akin to Elden Ring's Iron Fist Alexander if he fell into some wet tarmac. Unlike the ambient wildlife of the first area, there was little more than Sisyphian dung beetles here, continuously rolling a solitary ball up a hill.

    Descending to the bowels of the cave system, I spotted my prey, slumbering amongst fire and brimstone. Unlike the Araketa, the Teostra isn’t new to the franchise, with the elder dragon appearing in Monster Hunter World and long before that in Monster Hunter 2. However, it is the beast's first appearance in a long time, and he’s packing some serious heat this time around.

    Before I could begin my barrage, a pop-up on screen alerted me to an unskippable step — if I didn’t drink a cool drink, I would lose health during the fight, presumably from boiling alive in my own skin. I’m happy to report that ignoring this message was a silly mistake, and it wasn’t long before I fainted and was forced to make the descent again.

    A screenshot from Monster Hunter Wilds: Ascendance showing a winged beast rearing

    (Image credit: Capcom)

    Salve applied; I dove headfirst into what already appeared to be a complicated fight. Double my height, the Teostra’s feline form was blazing, its attacks involving a mixture of fizzing fire bombs and cat-like swipes. When used in tandem, it became steadily overwhelming, and I was pleased I had my attention-stealing Palico to draw away some of the heat, both literally and metaphorically.

    To keep from burning alive, I leapt in and out of its proximity, buckling its back legs and taking huge swaths of damage — safe to say, in the twenty minutes I had to win, I was not successful. Thankfully for the sake of my pride, as I returned to the camp a loser, I noticed the player next to me was struggling against the Teostra as well; even with a different weapon and impressive dexterity, they failed to kill the beast in the time allotted.

    It’s clear Monster Hunter: Wilds Ascendance intends to escalate the hunting in the base game, enabling players to wield powerful tools in environments designed to genuinely test their preparation and survival skills. As someone who dropped off the base game after hitting credits, this expansion provides more than enough reason to kit back up and head into its refreshed, uncompromising world.

    Monster Hunter Wilds: Ascendance is releasing in 2027.

    ]]>     <![CDATA[ Googlebooks are bringing Gemini Intelligence to premium laptops, but is the cost worth it for these Android based-devices compared to Chromebooks? ]]> There's no shortage of options to consider as far as the best laptops are concerned, particularly when you're weighing up mid-range and premium models. For many years, Chromebooks have existed as an affordable entry point to portable computing that removes the high-cost barrier for productivity and play with their web-based operating system. However, everything's changing with the recent announcement of Googlebooks, AI-powered machines aimed at the likes of the MacBook and the best ultrabooks.

    It's a bold, Gemini-backed swing from the Californian company. Gemini Intelligence is the central USP here, with an Android/Linux hybrid OS replacing the likes of traditional laptop operating systems, running on powerful hardware, such as Intel Core Ultra and Qualcomm Snapdragon X Elite processors.

    There's a ton of ground to cover with the design philosophies, price-to-performance, value for money, and general usability of an Android-based Googlebook when weighed up against a web-based Chromebook, let alone how the incoming Gemini-packed computers hold up against their competition.

    As a result, I'm going through everything you need to know about Googlebooks vs Chromebooks, analyzing their use case, build quality, battery life, design, features, and other aspects to see if it's worth taking the plunge with Gemini Intelligence, or seeing if you're better suited to a more traditional laptop instead.

    Googlebooks vs Chromebooks: Price comparison

    Lenovo Googlebook 15

    The Lenovo Google 15 features a 2.8K OLED display with an Intel Core Ultra 5 processor (Image credit: Lenovo)

    The biggest defining characteristic of Googlebooks at this early stage of its rollout is their premium nature. Currently, there are only a handful of different models to choose from, and all carry high-end price tags. Early adopters can choose from the Acer Googlebook 14, the Asus Googlebook 14, the Dell XPS Googlebook, the HP Googlebook 14, and the Lenovo Googlebook 15. Starting configurations begin at $899 / £999 to $1,299 / £1,199, depending on the included amount of RAM, choice of processor, and onboard storage. All these models either use an Intel Core Ultra 5/7 or the Snapdragon X Elite.

    In contrast, Chromebooks have (historically) always been a cost-effective way to be productive, get work done, and enjoy multimedia playback. Lightweight, fast, and affordable have always been the mantra of these devices. Popular choices in 2026 include the HP Chromebook 14 ($249 / £249), Samsung Galaxy Chromebook Plus ($699 / £649), Lenovo Chromebook Plus 14 ($599 / £599), and the Asus Chromebook Plus CX34 ($439 / £429). These web-based machines typically cater to light laptop users, and they don't require much processing power under the hood to perform their tasks, keeping the prices competitive.

    While there have been relatively expensive Chromebooks in the past, they have been few and far between, and failed to properly muscle in on ultrabook territory because they rely on a web-based operating system. They can be surprisingly capable for enterprising users, and we saw this most prominently four years ago with the launch of the HP Elite Dragonfly Chromebook. It's gone down in history as the best high-end Chromebook ever designed; however, it didn't sell well and was quietly discontinued in mid 2024. No company has attempted to make such a high-end device again since, until the new Googlebooks.

    The average price of a Chromebook is between $300 and $400 (£300 to £400) for a reliable machine from a trusted manufacturer. Conversely, if we look at the freshly revealed Googlebooks (which begin at $999 to $1,299), that's a markup of 233%. Before we get into the architectural and hardware differences, we need to ask the question: are Googlebooks really good enough to spend double (or triple) what you would on a Chromebook? For some, that's going to be a tough sell. If you're tight on cash and just want a basic machine for light use, then a Chromebook will be the better buy, and if you want more processing power, then things become more nuanced.

    Googlebooks vs Chromebooks: OS and App support

    Googlebook OS in action on a screen

    Googlebook OS is essentially just an Android 17 wrapper that applies a full desktop-width to what's usually displayed on your phone. (Image credit: Google)

    The second big defining trait of Googlebooks is how they openly embrace today's best laptop processors rather than cheap out on something serviceable, yet unexciting. As touched upon above, the first-generation Googlebooks use either Intel Core Ultra 5/7 or Snapdragon X Elite chips.

    This is done to aid hardware-accelerated AI workloads, as the dedicated NPUs (Neural Processing Units) onboard these processors feature 47-50 TOPs (Tera of Operations Per Second), meaning the number of calculations for local machine learning. It's needed to give Gemini Intelligence the required horsepower to function, as it's a hardware-integrated operating system layer.

    Standard Google Gemini is more of a prompt-based AI chatbot that has several different levels to it. The standard search and response is now called Flash (3.6), whereas you also have the options for Flash-Lite (3.5) for the fastest answers, and 3.1 Pro for "advanced reasoning". There's also the Flash Extended mode for "complex problem solving". Gemini has been available since December 2023, and it's only becoming smarter, faster, and more useful as time goes on. Google just announced Gemini 4 Argon, which is said to be for real-world coding, defense, and enterprise work, so as a platform, it's in an incredibly healthy place, showing no signs of slowing down.

    Googlebooks leverage the power of Gemini Intelligence for local AI workloads. All Googlebook early adopters will receive a year of Google AI Pro (which includes Gemini Pro, Nano Banana, and Gemini in Google Drive) as well as 5TB of cloud storage with their AI-powered laptops, too. In other words, if you're looking for machines primarily geared towards AI-accelerated workloads, then there's enough under the hood, with the software that's streamlined for this exact purpose.

    It's tough to weigh up Googlebooks against ultrabooks directly because, though the hardware itself is comparable, the software is very different. Googlebooks run on Googlebook OS (which was codenamed Aluminium OS), which is essentially just a fancy wrapper for Android 17. It boils down to having a cell phone UI combined with the look and feel of a laptop.

    By comparison, Chromebooks are an outlier to the norm. They run ChromeOS, which is a lightweight operating system for web browsing and everyday computing tasks that utilize Google Workspace (formerly G Suite) for the likes of Gmail, Drive, Meet, Docs, Sheets, Slides, Keep, Notebook, etc. It also means having to rely on the Chrome Web Store rather than getting to use the Google Play Store, or downloading anything external as an executable. Google recently announced that it would be ending support for ChromeOS in mid-2034, so there are still seven years of use from a Chromebook before the device becomes a paperweight. Google has confirmed that some Chromebook devices will get to upgrade to Googlebook OS; however, no further details have been shared.

    Googlebooks vs Chromebooks: Design

    Asus Chromebook on a white background

    Chromebooks have been around for more than 15 years, and have carved out their own niche in the laptop market. (Image credit: Asus)

    The design ethos when comparing Googlebooks vs Chromebooks is where you can see the manufacturing differences that are possible when you put money behind a product. As expected, given the fact that you're going to pay anywhere from double (or triple) the starting cost for a Googlebook when compared to a Chromebook, the materials used by the former are significantly better. The five initial Googlebooks all feature 16GB RAM with 512GB of storage at a starting point, and are available in either 14-inch or 15-inch display configurations.

    Granular details are where Googlebooks get more exciting, particularly with the Lenovo Googlebook 15 and the HP Googlebook 14. Both of these high-end devices weigh in at 1.2kg and feature OLED touchscreens. Lenovo's model uses an Intel Core Ultra 5 processor and supports up to 13 hours of battery life, whereas HP's effort utilizes the Snapdragon X Elite for up to 19 hours of battery life. The Asus Googlebook 14 is the lightest of the launch crop, weighing in at just 1kg with its 14-inch 3K OLED screen and up to 16 hours of battery playback. There's something of a rough price-to-performance range here, albeit with one strange deviation from the rule.

    The Dell XPS Chromebook lacks an OLED display, but still ranks among the most expensive of the launch lineup, with a lower 2.5K resolution compared to the 2.8K or 3K screens of its competitors. Backed by the Snapdragon X Elite, it has a comparable 18-hour battery life akin to the HP Googlebook 14, coming in a touch lighter at 1.09kg, with otherwise the same configured specs.

    There's far more variety in what to expect from a Chromebook's design. After all, Google's web-based laptops have been on the market for over 15 years, and as such, manufacturers have figured out every way to deliver different form factors at all price points. All-rounders include the likes of the HP Chromebook Plus 15, which you can get for around $549.99 / £449.99, running a fairly paltry Intel Core i3-N305 CPU with Intel integrated graphics, 8GB RAM, and a Full HD display.

    Cheaper Chromebooks can cut this initial cost in half, such as the budget champion Asus Chromebook CX15, which starts at only $159.99 / £249.99 and features an Intel Celeron N4500 CPU, 4GB RAM, and a Full HD display. You'll find the weaker processors in almost all budget and mid-range Chromebooks, particularly the Intel Core i3, Intel Celeron, or the Intel N100. There's also been the adoption of low-powered MediaTek Kompanio processors, which are built on Arm instead; you may see these chips in the Lenovo Chromebook Plus 14, Lenovo Duet EDU G2, and the Acer Chromebook Plus Spin 514, among others.

    Chromebooks have always been an example of getting what you pay for. It means weaker machines with dimmer screens and modest hardware specs for an affordable price tag. Because ChromeOS is all web-based, there's no need for much processing power; however, if a machine has just 4GB or 8GB of RAM, then the overall performance could still feel slow and sluggish, depending on how many Chrome tabs or apps you're running in the background. It's a game of give and take, of compromise, and that's the space that these laptops have confidently occupied since 2011. They'll never rival what the best gaming laptops can do, naturally, but then, they're not in that market at all.

    Should you buy a Googlebook or a Chromebook?

    Googlebooks at launch

    Googlebooks are a big gamble that consumers will want to go all in on AI with four-digit price tags (Image credit: Google)

    It's time to deliver a verdict on whether you should consider a Googlebook or a Chromebook, and I'll keep things as straightforward as possible. If you're a casual computer user who doesn't want to spend too much and primarily works online and has everything conducted through streaming, then an average Chromebook will be more than enough.

    However, if you're already thoroughly ingrained in the Gemini ecosystem, use an Android phone, and want a premium laptop with a long battery life, then a Googlebook will likely be a great choice.

    As someone who owns a Google Pixel 10 Pro and has become familiar with Gemini Intelligence, I can say firsthand that the technology works well for certain applications. If you already own Google hardware, then a laptop running an Android wrapper won't make any sense (or will be purely redundant aside from the form factor), but if you're looking to be an early adopter, ready for Gemini 4, Gemini Intelligence, and to go all in on AI, then it could be worthwhile for you. It's too early to call whether the wider computing market or the industry will embrace them, but everything revealed this early on shows promise for the right type of user.

    ]]>     https://www.techradar.com/computing/chromebooks/googlebook-vs-chromebook N69EsXkkZpKpoZxLyoCiDh Sat, 03 Oct 2026 13:00:00 +0000 false false false

    There's no shortage of options to consider as far as the best laptops are concerned, particularly when you're weighing up mid-range and premium models. For many years, Chromebooks have existed as an affordable entry point to portable computing that removes the high-cost barrier for productivity and play with their web-based operating system. However, everything's changing with the recent announcement of Googlebooks, AI-powered machines aimed at the likes of the MacBook and the best ultrabooks.

    It's a bold, Gemini-backed swing from the Californian company. Gemini Intelligence is the central USP here, with an Android/Linux hybrid OS replacing the likes of traditional laptop operating systems, running on powerful hardware, such as Intel Core Ultra and Qualcomm Snapdragon X Elite processors.

    There's a ton of ground to cover with the design philosophies, price-to-performance, value for money, and general usability of an Android-based Googlebook when weighed up against a web-based Chromebook, let alone how the incoming Gemini-packed computers hold up against their competition.

    As a result, I'm going through everything you need to know about Googlebooks vs Chromebooks, analyzing their use case, build quality, battery life, design, features, and other aspects to see if it's worth taking the plunge with Gemini Intelligence, or seeing if you're better suited to a more traditional laptop instead.

    Googlebooks vs Chromebooks: Price comparison

    Lenovo Googlebook 15

    The Lenovo Google 15 features a 2.8K OLED display with an Intel Core Ultra 5 processor (Image credit: Lenovo)

    The biggest defining characteristic of Googlebooks at this early stage of its rollout is their premium nature. Currently, there are only a handful of different models to choose from, and all carry high-end price tags. Early adopters can choose from the Acer Googlebook 14, the Asus Googlebook 14, the Dell XPS Googlebook, the HP Googlebook 14, and the Lenovo Googlebook 15. Starting configurations begin at $899 / £999 to $1,299 / £1,199, depending on the included amount of RAM, choice of processor, and onboard storage. All these models either use an Intel Core Ultra 5/7 or the Snapdragon X Elite.

    In contrast, Chromebooks have (historically) always been a cost-effective way to be productive, get work done, and enjoy multimedia playback. Lightweight, fast, and affordable have always been the mantra of these devices. Popular choices in 2026 include the HP Chromebook 14 ($249 / £249), Samsung Galaxy Chromebook Plus ($699 / £649), Lenovo Chromebook Plus 14 ($599 / £599), and the Asus Chromebook Plus CX34 ($439 / £429). These web-based machines typically cater to light laptop users, and they don't require much processing power under the hood to perform their tasks, keeping the prices competitive.

    While there have been relatively expensive Chromebooks in the past, they have been few and far between, and failed to properly muscle in on ultrabook territory because they rely on a web-based operating system. They can be surprisingly capable for enterprising users, and we saw this most prominently four years ago with the launch of the HP Elite Dragonfly Chromebook. It's gone down in history as the best high-end Chromebook ever designed; however, it didn't sell well and was quietly discontinued in mid 2024. No company has attempted to make such a high-end device again since, until the new Googlebooks.

    The average price of a Chromebook is between $300 and $400 (£300 to £400) for a reliable machine from a trusted manufacturer. Conversely, if we look at the freshly revealed Googlebooks (which begin at $999 to $1,299), that's a markup of 233%. Before we get into the architectural and hardware differences, we need to ask the question: are Googlebooks really good enough to spend double (or triple) what you would on a Chromebook? For some, that's going to be a tough sell. If you're tight on cash and just want a basic machine for light use, then a Chromebook will be the better buy, and if you want more processing power, then things become more nuanced.

    Googlebooks vs Chromebooks: OS and App support

    Googlebook OS in action on a screen

    Googlebook OS is essentially just an Android 17 wrapper that applies a full desktop-width to what's usually displayed on your phone. (Image credit: Google)

    The second big defining trait of Googlebooks is how they openly embrace today's best laptop processors rather than cheap out on something serviceable, yet unexciting. As touched upon above, the first-generation Googlebooks use either Intel Core Ultra 5/7 or Snapdragon X Elite chips.

    This is done to aid hardware-accelerated AI workloads, as the dedicated NPUs (Neural Processing Units) onboard these processors feature 47-50 TOPs (Tera of Operations Per Second), meaning the number of calculations for local machine learning. It's needed to give Gemini Intelligence the required horsepower to function, as it's a hardware-integrated operating system layer.

    Standard Google Gemini is more of a prompt-based AI chatbot that has several different levels to it. The standard search and response is now called Flash (3.6), whereas you also have the options for Flash-Lite (3.5) for the fastest answers, and 3.1 Pro for "advanced reasoning". There's also the Flash Extended mode for "complex problem solving". Gemini has been available since December 2023, and it's only becoming smarter, faster, and more useful as time goes on. Google just announced Gemini 4 Argon, which is said to be for real-world coding, defense, and enterprise work, so as a platform, it's in an incredibly healthy place, showing no signs of slowing down.

    Googlebooks leverage the power of Gemini Intelligence for local AI workloads. All Googlebook early adopters will receive a year of Google AI Pro (which includes Gemini Pro, Nano Banana, and Gemini in Google Drive) as well as 5TB of cloud storage with their AI-powered laptops, too. In other words, if you're looking for machines primarily geared towards AI-accelerated workloads, then there's enough under the hood, with the software that's streamlined for this exact purpose.

    It's tough to weigh up Googlebooks against ultrabooks directly because, though the hardware itself is comparable, the software is very different. Googlebooks run on Googlebook OS (which was codenamed Aluminium OS), which is essentially just a fancy wrapper for Android 17. It boils down to having a cell phone UI combined with the look and feel of a laptop.

    By comparison, Chromebooks are an outlier to the norm. They run ChromeOS, which is a lightweight operating system for web browsing and everyday computing tasks that utilize Google Workspace (formerly G Suite) for the likes of Gmail, Drive, Meet, Docs, Sheets, Slides, Keep, Notebook, etc. It also means having to rely on the Chrome Web Store rather than getting to use the Google Play Store, or downloading anything external as an executable. Google recently announced that it would be ending support for ChromeOS in mid-2034, so there are still seven years of use from a Chromebook before the device becomes a paperweight. Google has confirmed that some Chromebook devices will get to upgrade to Googlebook OS; however, no further details have been shared.

    Googlebooks vs Chromebooks: Design

    Asus Chromebook on a white background

    Chromebooks have been around for more than 15 years, and have carved out their own niche in the laptop market. (Image credit: Asus)

    The design ethos when comparing Googlebooks vs Chromebooks is where you can see the manufacturing differences that are possible when you put money behind a product. As expected, given the fact that you're going to pay anywhere from double (or triple) the starting cost for a Googlebook when compared to a Chromebook, the materials used by the former are significantly better. The five initial Googlebooks all feature 16GB RAM with 512GB of storage at a starting point, and are available in either 14-inch or 15-inch display configurations.

    Granular details are where Googlebooks get more exciting, particularly with the Lenovo Googlebook 15 and the HP Googlebook 14. Both of these high-end devices weigh in at 1.2kg and feature OLED touchscreens. Lenovo's model uses an Intel Core Ultra 5 processor and supports up to 13 hours of battery life, whereas HP's effort utilizes the Snapdragon X Elite for up to 19 hours of battery life. The Asus Googlebook 14 is the lightest of the launch crop, weighing in at just 1kg with its 14-inch 3K OLED screen and up to 16 hours of battery playback. There's something of a rough price-to-performance range here, albeit with one strange deviation from the rule.

    The Dell XPS Chromebook lacks an OLED display, but still ranks among the most expensive of the launch lineup, with a lower 2.5K resolution compared to the 2.8K or 3K screens of its competitors. Backed by the Snapdragon X Elite, it has a comparable 18-hour battery life akin to the HP Googlebook 14, coming in a touch lighter at 1.09kg, with otherwise the same configured specs.

    There's far more variety in what to expect from a Chromebook's design. After all, Google's web-based laptops have been on the market for over 15 years, and as such, manufacturers have figured out every way to deliver different form factors at all price points. All-rounders include the likes of the HP Chromebook Plus 15, which you can get for around $549.99 / £449.99, running a fairly paltry Intel Core i3-N305 CPU with Intel integrated graphics, 8GB RAM, and a Full HD display.

    Cheaper Chromebooks can cut this initial cost in half, such as the budget champion Asus Chromebook CX15, which starts at only $159.99 / £249.99 and features an Intel Celeron N4500 CPU, 4GB RAM, and a Full HD display. You'll find the weaker processors in almost all budget and mid-range Chromebooks, particularly the Intel Core i3, Intel Celeron, or the Intel N100. There's also been the adoption of low-powered MediaTek Kompanio processors, which are built on Arm instead; you may see these chips in the Lenovo Chromebook Plus 14, Lenovo Duet EDU G2, and the Acer Chromebook Plus Spin 514, among others.

    Chromebooks have always been an example of getting what you pay for. It means weaker machines with dimmer screens and modest hardware specs for an affordable price tag. Because ChromeOS is all web-based, there's no need for much processing power; however, if a machine has just 4GB or 8GB of RAM, then the overall performance could still feel slow and sluggish, depending on how many Chrome tabs or apps you're running in the background. It's a game of give and take, of compromise, and that's the space that these laptops have confidently occupied since 2011. They'll never rival what the best gaming laptops can do, naturally, but then, they're not in that market at all.

    Should you buy a Googlebook or a Chromebook?

    Googlebooks at launch

    Googlebooks are a big gamble that consumers will want to go all in on AI with four-digit price tags (Image credit: Google)

    It's time to deliver a verdict on whether you should consider a Googlebook or a Chromebook, and I'll keep things as straightforward as possible. If you're a casual computer user who doesn't want to spend too much and primarily works online and has everything conducted through streaming, then an average Chromebook will be more than enough.

    However, if you're already thoroughly ingrained in the Gemini ecosystem, use an Android phone, and want a premium laptop with a long battery life, then a Googlebook will likely be a great choice.

    As someone who owns a Google Pixel 10 Pro and has become familiar with Gemini Intelligence, I can say firsthand that the technology works well for certain applications. If you already own Google hardware, then a laptop running an Android wrapper won't make any sense (or will be purely redundant aside from the form factor), but if you're looking to be an early adopter, ready for Gemini 4, Gemini Intelligence, and to go all in on AI, then it could be worthwhile for you. It's too early to call whether the wider computing market or the industry will embrace them, but everything revealed this early on shows promise for the right type of user.

    ]]>     <![CDATA[ How to watch Croatia vs England: FREE streams & TV channels ]]>
  • Watch Croatia vs England FREE on ITVX (UK) / Virgin Media Play (Ireland)
  • Unlock your stream with NordVPN (save up to 75%)
  • Kick-off: Sat, Oct 3 — 12pm ET / 5pm BST

    • Watch Croatia vs England live streams as two familiar foes meet in a match being played behind closed doors at Stadion HNK Rijeka. The Three Lions will look to take advantage of the lack of home support by securing a second straight Nations League 2026/27 win and keep in touch with Group A3 leaders Spain.

    Fourteen years on from the end of his first spell in charge, Slaven Bilic returned to the Croatia dugout this summer and saw his team make the perfect start as they defeated Czechia 2-1. The evergreen Luka Modric and Marco Pasalic grabbed the goals in that game, but the ageing side were then undone by Spanish brilliance in a 4-1 midweek hammering. They’ll expect an equally tough time against an England team that triumphed 4-2 in the teams' World Cup meeting, but don't expect the Balkans to be anywhere near as open.

    England had a tough start to their Nations League campaign but showed plenty of promise – especially in attack – in the 3-2 defeat by Spain. The World Cup bronze medallists were patient in overcoming Czechia's stubborn 10-man resistance to win 2-0 in Prague, thanks to in-form duo Harry Kane and Anthony Gordon, who have scored in both games. Jordan Pickford will return in goal, but Thomas Tuchel may well decide to hand Trent Alexander-Arnold and Lewis Hall another opportunity to impress at full-back.

    Read on as we explain how to watch Croatia vs England online and from anywhere, including FREE options.

    Can you watch Croatia vs England for free?

    Yes. Croatia vs England is being shown on free-to-air ITV1 and ITVX in the UK.

    It's also available in the Republic of Ireland, on Virgin Media Play and Virgin Media 2.

    Traveling abroad right now? You can use a VPN to watch Croatia vs England for free as if you were right at home.

    Croatia vs England team news

    Croatia starting XI: Livakovic, Stanisic, Vuckovic, Gvardiol, Perisic, Modric, Kovacic, Ivanovic, Sucic, Baturina, Musa.

    Substitutes: Pandur, Kotarski, Smolcic, Sutalo, Kramaric, Vlasic, Mario Pasalic, Jakic, Marco Pasalic, Matanovic, Sucic, Misic

    England starting XI: Pickford, Quansah, Konsa, Guehi, Hall, Anderson, Scott Bellingham, Saka, Gordon, Kane.

    Substitutes: Steele, Trafford, Alexander-Arnold, Garner, Branthwaite, Calvert-Lewin, Chalobah, Eze, Gibbs-White, Rogers, Ngumoha, Lewis-Skelly

    Use a VPN to watch Croatia vs England live streams

    A VPN is handy piece of software that can make your device appear as if it's back in your home country, so you can unlock your usual service. The best VPN right now? We recommend NordVPN – it does everything and comes with up to 75% off.

    🟩 NordVPN – get the world's best VPN

    Not having a VPN is like leaving your front door wide open in a busy city – anyone can walk right in and take a peek.

    TechRadar regularly reviews all the biggest and best VPN providers and NordVPN is our #1 choice.

    ✅ Up to 75% off today
    ✅ 3 extra months free
    ✅ Unlocks global streams

    Get NordVPN and stream Croatia vs England from anywhere.View Deal

    How to watch Croatia vs England live streams in the US

    US flag banner

    In the US, Croatia vs England live streams will be shown exclusively on Fubo.

    You'll need the Pro plan of the cord-cutting service, which costs $88.99 per month and comes with a 5-day free trial and $25 off the first month.

    Alternatively, Spanish-language service ViX is also airing the game. You'll need the $6.99/month Premium with Ads package to tune in.

    Outside of the US? Use NordVPN whilst you're traveling away from home to unlock your stream.

    How to watch Croatia vs England live streams in the UK

    UK flag banner

    (Image credit: Future)

    In the UK, Croatia vs England is free-to-air on ITV1, with live streaming available via the ITVX platform.

    An ITV account needs a UK postcode (e.g. SE1 7PB) and a valid TV license to watch live TV.

    Outside the UK right now? Use NordVPN to access that free Croatia vs England coverage.

    How to watch Croatia vs England live streams in Canada

    canada

    The Croatia vs England game is available to watch on DAZN in Canada. Prices start at CA$24.99/month.

    If you're out of Canada but still want to tune in, explore the VPN route set out above, which will help you access your accounts from anywhere.

    How to watch Croatia vs England live streams in Australia

    Australian flag

    (Image credit: free)

    beIN Sports 3 is showing the Croatia vs England game in Australia, with live streaming available via beIN Sports Connect.

    A subscription costs AU$16.99/month or AU$169.99/year after a 7-day FREE trial, and the service includes live and on-demand streaming of European football and tennis.

    Missing the game because you're outside Australia? Use a VPN to access your beIN Sports account.

    What is the Croatia vs England start time?

    The scheduled Croatia vs England kick-off time on Saturday, October 3 is 5pm BST, which is 9am PT / 12pm ET.

    That's 2am AEST on Sunday, October 4 in Australia.

    What is the Croatia vs England head-to-head?

    These two teams have met on numerous occasions in big tournaments over the past decade, contributing to 12 meetings since Croatian independence from the former Yugoslavia in 1991.

    The Three Lions hold the advantage having won on seven occasions, while Croatia have triumphed three times. There have also been two draws.

    England won the most recent fixture, running out 4-2 winners at the World Cup 2026.

    We test and review VPN services in the context of legal recreational uses. For example:1. Accessing a service from another country (subject to the terms and conditions of that service).2. Protecting your online security and strengthening your online privacy when abroad.We do not support or condone the illegal or malicious use of VPN services. Consuming pirated content that is paid-for is neither endorsed nor approved by Future Publishing.

    ]]>     https://www.techradar.com/how-to-watch/football/hcroatia-vs-england-free-nations-league-2026-27 XLZeGYe3iyT8iDBTGoNshM Sat, 03 Oct 2026 13:00:00 +0000 Sat, 03 Oct 2026 15:03:20 +0000 false false false

    Watch Croatia vs England live streams as two familiar foes meet in a match being played behind closed doors at Stadion HNK Rijeka. The Three Lions will look to take advantage of the lack of home support by securing a second straight Nations League 2026/27 win and keep in touch with Group A3 leaders Spain.

    Fourteen years on from the end of his first spell in charge, Slaven Bilic returned to the Croatia dugout this summer and saw his team make the perfect start as they defeated Czechia 2-1. The evergreen Luka Modric and Marco Pasalic grabbed the goals in that game, but the ageing side were then undone by Spanish brilliance in a 4-1 midweek hammering. They’ll expect an equally tough time against an England team that triumphed 4-2 in the teams' World Cup meeting, but don't expect the Balkans to be anywhere near as open.

    England had a tough start to their Nations League campaign but showed plenty of promise – especially in attack – in the 3-2 defeat by Spain. The World Cup bronze medallists were patient in overcoming Czechia's stubborn 10-man resistance to win 2-0 in Prague, thanks to in-form duo Harry Kane and Anthony Gordon, who have scored in both games. Jordan Pickford will return in goal, but Thomas Tuchel may well decide to hand Trent Alexander-Arnold and Lewis Hall another opportunity to impress at full-back.

    Read on as we explain how to watch Croatia vs England online and from anywhere, including FREE options.

    Can you watch Croatia vs England for free?

    Yes. Croatia vs England is being shown on free-to-air ITV1 and ITVX in the UK.

    It's also available in the Republic of Ireland, on Virgin Media Play and Virgin Media 2.

    Traveling abroad right now? You can use a VPN to watch Croatia vs England for free as if you were right at home.

    Croatia vs England team news

    Croatia starting XI: Livakovic, Stanisic, Vuckovic, Gvardiol, Perisic, Modric, Kovacic, Ivanovic, Sucic, Baturina, Musa.

    Substitutes: Pandur, Kotarski, Smolcic, Sutalo, Kramaric, Vlasic, Mario Pasalic, Jakic, Marco Pasalic, Matanovic, Sucic, Misic

    England starting XI: Pickford, Quansah, Konsa, Guehi, Hall, Anderson, Scott Bellingham, Saka, Gordon, Kane.

    Substitutes: Steele, Trafford, Alexander-Arnold, Garner, Branthwaite, Calvert-Lewin, Chalobah, Eze, Gibbs-White, Rogers, Ngumoha, Lewis-Skelly

    Use a VPN to watch Croatia vs England live streams

    A VPN is handy piece of software that can make your device appear as if it's back in your home country, so you can unlock your usual service. The best VPN right now? We recommend NordVPN – it does everything and comes with up to 75% off.

    🟩 NordVPN – get the world's best VPN

    Not having a VPN is like leaving your front door wide open in a busy city – anyone can walk right in and take a peek.

    TechRadar regularly reviews all the biggest and best VPN providers and NordVPN is our #1 choice.

    ✅ Up to 75% off today
    ✅ 3 extra months free
    ✅ Unlocks global streams

    Get NordVPN and stream Croatia vs England from anywhere.View Deal

    How to watch Croatia vs England live streams in the US

    US flag banner

    In the US, Croatia vs England live streams will be shown exclusively on Fubo.

    You'll need the Pro plan of the cord-cutting service, which costs $88.99 per month and comes with a 5-day free trial and $25 off the first month.

    Alternatively, Spanish-language service ViX is also airing the game. You'll need the $6.99/month Premium with Ads package to tune in.

    Outside of the US? Use NordVPN whilst you're traveling away from home to unlock your stream.

    How to watch Croatia vs England live streams in the UK

    UK flag banner

    (Image credit: Future)

    In the UK, Croatia vs England is free-to-air on ITV1, with live streaming available via the ITVX platform.

    An ITV account needs a UK postcode (e.g. SE1 7PB) and a valid TV license to watch live TV.

    Outside the UK right now? Use NordVPN to access that free Croatia vs England coverage.

    How to watch Croatia vs England live streams in Canada

    canada

    The Croatia vs England game is available to watch on DAZN in Canada. Prices start at CA$24.99/month.

    If you're out of Canada but still want to tune in, explore the VPN route set out above, which will help you access your accounts from anywhere.

    How to watch Croatia vs England live streams in Australia

    Australian flag

    (Image credit: free)

    beIN Sports 3 is showing the Croatia vs England game in Australia, with live streaming available via beIN Sports Connect.

    A subscription costs AU$16.99/month or AU$169.99/year after a 7-day FREE trial, and the service includes live and on-demand streaming of European football and tennis.

    Missing the game because you're outside Australia? Use a VPN to access your beIN Sports account.

    What is the Croatia vs England start time?

    The scheduled Croatia vs England kick-off time on Saturday, October 3 is 5pm BST, which is 9am PT / 12pm ET.

    That's 2am AEST on Sunday, October 4 in Australia.

    What is the Croatia vs England head-to-head?

    These two teams have met on numerous occasions in big tournaments over the past decade, contributing to 12 meetings since Croatian independence from the former Yugoslavia in 1991.

    The Three Lions hold the advantage having won on seven occasions, while Croatia have triumphed three times. There have also been two draws.

    England won the most recent fixture, running out 4-2 winners at the World Cup 2026.

    We test and review VPN services in the context of legal recreational uses. For example:1. Accessing a service from another country (subject to the terms and conditions of that service).2. Protecting your online security and strengthening your online privacy when abroad.We do not support or condone the illegal or malicious use of VPN services. Consuming pirated content that is paid-for is neither endorsed nor approved by Future Publishing.

    ]]>     <![CDATA[ Nvidia-backed Neocloud Nscale faces years of delay because UK's 'largest AI supercomputer' can't get enough power from the grid to feed its data centers ]]>
  • An upcoming data center cited by previous Prime Minister Keir Starmer as part of the UK’s AI Strategy will no longer open as planned
  • The Nscale site in Loughton, Essex, which counts Nvidia among its investors, had already raised eyebrows when it was revealed earlier this year to still be in operation as a scaffolding yard
  • UK Power Networks has told Nscale that the electricity grid will not be able to produce enough power for the site until the early 2030s

    • A new AI data center – dubbed the UK’s largest AI supercomputer – is facing delays thanks to challenges supplying power to the facility. Built by Nscale, with backers including Nvidia, the neocloud installation was set to launch in 2027, but power issues have forced UK Power Networks to come clean over the data center’s intended viability.

    Oddly, the site – which was highlighted by the UK’s recently replaced Prime Minister, Keir Starmer – was still operating as a scaffolding yard as recently as March 2026.

    In order to operate, the Loughton data center in Essex, England, requires 90MW, around the same energy requirement as 315,000 homes. However, the UK’s National Grid has a backlog of over 300 data centers requiring power, with the total demand more than 60% greater than the UK’s current capacity.

    The Nscale neocloud

    Constructing the neocloud – a GPU-based AI cloud data center – is the first project for Nscale, a UK startup that is preparing for a £26 billion ($35 billion) public listing and has already raised around £2.55 billion ($3.36 billion) in pre-IPO funding.

    However, while cited as a key example of the UK’s commitment to AI, the Nscale neocloud cannot operate without the 90MW supply.

    National Grid, the company that owns networks in the UK, don’t comment on individual cases. Its representative told the Guardian: “We’re continuing to work closely with Neso, distribution network operators and customers to identify opportunities to accelerate connections where possible and support economic growth.”

    But the power supply roadblocks materializing for the Loughton data center are not exclusive to that project.

    UK power capacity concerns

    Other data center plans around the UK are being held up by power supply problems. Regulator Ofgem revealed in June 2026 that 315 data centers were awaiting connection to the National Grid. They represent a demand of 73GW, exceeding the country’s entire capacity of 45GW by 62%.

    The UK’s power generation is a diverse mix of gas, nuclear, wind, solar, and biomass. Some power comes from mainland Europe. Over the past 25 years, the UK has focused more on renewable energy resources, deprioritising nuclear, and using gas as the fall-back. However, the increasing demand for AI has revealed that strategy requires an urgent rethink.

    Around 100 data centers are planning to build their own gas-fired power stations, according to reports earlier this year, which noted that 100GW of data center projects were awaiting connection to the UK’s power infrastructure.

    ]]>     https://www.techradar.com/pro/nvidia-backed-neocloud-nscale-faces-years-of-delay-because-uks-largest-ai-supercomputer-cant-get-enough-power-from-the-grid-to-feed-its-data-centers vbubmv2bvAj5b3GuacEdVX Sat, 03 Oct 2026 11:05:00 +0000 false false false
    • An upcoming data center cited by previous Prime Minister Keir Starmer as part of the UK’s AI Strategy will no longer open as planned
    • The Nscale site in Loughton, Essex, which counts Nvidia among its investors, had already raised eyebrows when it was revealed earlier this year to still be in operation as a scaffolding yard
    • UK Power Networks has told Nscale that the electricity grid will not be able to produce enough power for the site until the early 2030s

    A new AI data center – dubbed the UK’s largest AI supercomputer – is facing delays thanks to challenges supplying power to the facility. Built by Nscale, with backers including Nvidia, the neocloud installation was set to launch in 2027, but power issues have forced UK Power Networks to come clean over the data center’s intended viability.

    Oddly, the site – which was highlighted by the UK’s recently replaced Prime Minister, Keir Starmer – was still operating as a scaffolding yard as recently as March 2026.

    In order to operate, the Loughton data center in Essex, England, requires 90MW, around the same energy requirement as 315,000 homes. However, the UK’s National Grid has a backlog of over 300 data centers requiring power, with the total demand more than 60% greater than the UK’s current capacity.

    The Nscale neocloud

    Constructing the neocloud – a GPU-based AI cloud data center – is the first project for Nscale, a UK startup that is preparing for a £26 billion ($35 billion) public listing and has already raised around £2.55 billion ($3.36 billion) in pre-IPO funding.

    However, while cited as a key example of the UK’s commitment to AI, the Nscale neocloud cannot operate without the 90MW supply.

    National Grid, the company that owns networks in the UK, don’t comment on individual cases. Its representative told the Guardian: “We’re continuing to work closely with Neso, distribution network operators and customers to identify opportunities to accelerate connections where possible and support economic growth.”

    But the power supply roadblocks materializing for the Loughton data center are not exclusive to that project.

    UK power capacity concerns

    Other data center plans around the UK are being held up by power supply problems. Regulator Ofgem revealed in June 2026 that 315 data centers were awaiting connection to the National Grid. They represent a demand of 73GW, exceeding the country’s entire capacity of 45GW by 62%.

    The UK’s power generation is a diverse mix of gas, nuclear, wind, solar, and biomass. Some power comes from mainland Europe. Over the past 25 years, the UK has focused more on renewable energy resources, deprioritising nuclear, and using gas as the fall-back. However, the increasing demand for AI has revealed that strategy requires an urgent rethink.

    Around 100 data centers are planning to build their own gas-fired power stations, according to reports earlier this year, which noted that 100GW of data center projects were awaiting connection to the UK’s power infrastructure.

    ]]>     <![CDATA[ ICYMI: the 8 biggest tech stories of the week ]]> Welcome to our regular ICYMI (In Case You Missed It) recap on TechRadar, which we run every week so you can catch up on all the most significant happenings in the world of tech over the last seven days.

    We say this every week, but we're going to say it again: it's been a bumper week of news, views, and reviews. There have been new ereaders from Amazon and new tablets from Samsung, as well as a phone built specifically for kids — and that's just the start.

    So settle down and make yourself comfortable and we'll take you through the stories that mattered, whether or not you caught them first time around. And we'll be back next week with what will no doubt be an equally packed ICYMI...

    8. We let Meta’s Muse into our personal life

    Muse

    We've been testing Muse out (Image credit: Future)

    Meta has a new Muse AI agent app, which is intended to sit on your phone and provide useful, proactive assistance whenever you need it. From filling out forms online to making sure you don't forget what's on your grocery list, Muse wants to give you context-sensitive help any time of day or night. The only catch? It also wants you to hand over a lot of data.

    As TechRadar's Editor at Large Lance Ulanoff discovered when he put Muse through some vigorous testing, the AI is most useful when it knows as much about you as possible — what's on your calendar, what's in your email inbox, and so on. That means there's a privacy trade-off to be made, and it's unlikely that everyone will be comfortable with it.

    7. Peloton claimed its new treadmills beat smartwatches

    Split image of Tread Vision camera, and journalist running on Peloton Tread Vision

    Can a treadmill replace your wearable? (Image credit: Peloton / Future)

    To get the inside story on the new and improved treadmills from Peloton, our Fitness & Wearables Editor Matt Evans spoke to Peloton executives Nick Caldwell and Meg Higgins about what makes them worth our money — and in particular, the capabilities of the AI-powered camera tracking that can watch your form as you go through your workouts.

    According to the execs, the treadmill cameras can do a better job at assessing how you're doing than wearables strapped to your wrist, and that might be enough to tempt serious athletes into picking up one of the new models. There's plenty more to talk about with these new treadmills too, including a new cushioning system and a redesigned interface.

    6. The Prime Big Deal Days kicked off early

    A collage of tech deals from the Prime Big Deal Days early sale, including a Nintendo Switch 2, Samsung Galaxy Fit 3, Kindle Colorsoft, Ember TV, Anker speaker and Ring doorbell.

    We've got deals for you (Image credit: Future / Nintendo / Samsung / Amazon / Anker)

    Amazon's Prime Big Deal Days is approaching, and the TechRadar team is all over it. Even if you're feeling fatigued in the hunt for top tech discounts, we've got you covered — and while the sales haven't officially started yet, lots of offers are already live. Click through to find significant price drops for hardware from Samsung, Blink, Nintendo, Philips, Anker, and more.

    You can save yourself hundreds of pounds in some cases, and we're coming across certain products that are lower than they've ever been on the retail site. Prime Day proper gets underway on October 6 (next Tuesday), so even if you do avail yourself of some of the deals included here, make sure you check back with TechRadar over the next few days.

    5. A fresh Amazon Fire TV Stick landed with a new remote

    A split image. The Amazon Fire TV 4K Stick with its remote on one side, and the new Fire TV Remote Plus is on the other side.

    There's a new Fire TV Stick on the market (Image credit: Amazon)

    The first Amazon hardware refresh of the week came with a new Fire TV Stick 4K, promising faster performance compared to its previous 4K streaming dongles and bringing with it a redesigned remote control. There are also some AI updates for Alexa+ here, and all for $59.99 / £69.99 (about AU$86, with international pricing to be confirmed).

    According to Amazon, the update remote is more tactile and easier to hold than before, with some tweaks to help you navigate its various buttons through touch alone, without looking at it (you can buy the new remote separately to work with an old Fire TV stick, if you want). Oh, and discounts are being promised to coincide with the Prime Big Deal Days next week.

    4. We were blown away by Vivo’s 400mm phone lens

    Tim Coleman, TechRadar's Cameras Editor, holding the Vivo X500 Pro Max phone with teleconverter lens attached, while stood on a wooden walkway in a birdlife reserve in Shanghai, China

    Testing out the teleconverter lens (Image credit: Tim Coleman )

    When it comes to phone brands, Vivo may not be as well known as the likes of Apple, Samsung, or Google, but it's done something rather special with its new G2 Ultra 4.7x teleconverter lens — a specialist add-on that it just unveiled alongside its flagship X500 series of phones, and which gives you a serious amount of zoom from your phone.

    In the words of our Cameras Editor Tim Coleman, who's been testing out the new accessory, the teleconverter "is a real showcase of what smartphone cameras can be capable of". For the time being, the device is only available to buy in China, but you can check out some of the stunning shots that the G2 Ultra 4.7x is capable of capturing.

    3. The Freckle Phone made us rethink kids' phones

    Freckle

    Meet the Freckle Phone (Image credit: Freckle Phone)

    No one has quite worked out the best age for kids to get phones yet, or what those phones should be allowed to do when they are given to children. The latest device to try and find a solution is the Freckle phone, which has a lot of phone-like features (such as calling and photo-taking), without being weighed down by apps that are potentially unhealthy.

    The design of the Freckle Phone is chunky and colorful, but it's really the software that makes it stand out. The developers of the device have eschewed a conventional operating system to offer a collection of curated apps that encourage kids to get outside and go on adventures — something we can probably all agree is going to be good for their growth.

    2. Samsung revealed its new iPad Pro rival

    The Samsung Galaxy Tab S12 Ultra on a yellow background

    The new Samsung Galaxy Tab S12 Ultra (Image credit: Samsung / Future)

    Samsung has launched two more tablets to take on the iPad, the Galaxy Tab S12 Plus and the Galaxy S12 Ultra. The huge 14.6-inch Ultra is the pick of the pair, bringing with it faster performance and a slimmer design compared to its predecessor, and these two new slates could be the best options you've got at the moment if you want a tablet running Android.

    We've got all the details on the Galaxy Tab pair here, including key specs, starting prices, and our hands-on first impressions — plus there's also a new Samsung Galaxy SmartTag 3 to talk about. Samsung's latest Bluetooth tracker works with iPhones for the first time, and adds new features as well as range improvements when you're trying to hunt down something you've lost.

    1. Amazon's new Kindles fixed our biggest gripes

    Amazon Kindle lineup 2026

    We've got new Kindles (Image credit: Lance Ulanoff / Future)

    Last but not least, we've got the second Amazon hardware unveiling of the week, which was a complete refresh for its Kindle line. The 13th-generation ereaders bring with them changes to the design, some new colors, and aluminum unibodies in some cases, and there are updated accessories too — including devices with physical page turn buttons.

    It feels like another step forward for the Kindle family, even if it's not a huge one, and we're pleased to see the power button has been moved from the bottom to the side of the Kindles for the first time. It's a change that's long overdue and should lead to fewer accidental presses (especially when you've got these Amazon ereaders propped up).

    ]]>     https://www.techradar.com/tech/icymi-the-8-biggest-tech-stories-of-the-week-from-metas-ai-agent-to-a-big-refresh-for-the-amazon-kindle 7d7zckUo8V83GNE93MzJ9c Sat, 03 Oct 2026 10:00:00 +0000 false false false

    Welcome to our regular ICYMI (In Case You Missed It) recap on TechRadar, which we run every week so you can catch up on all the most significant happenings in the world of tech over the last seven days.

    We say this every week, but we're going to say it again: it's been a bumper week of news, views, and reviews. There have been new ereaders from Amazon and new tablets from Samsung, as well as a phone built specifically for kids — and that's just the start.

    So settle down and make yourself comfortable and we'll take you through the stories that mattered, whether or not you caught them first time around. And we'll be back next week with what will no doubt be an equally packed ICYMI...

    8. We let Meta’s Muse into our personal life

    Muse

    We've been testing Muse out (Image credit: Future)

    Meta has a new Muse AI agent app, which is intended to sit on your phone and provide useful, proactive assistance whenever you need it. From filling out forms online to making sure you don't forget what's on your grocery list, Muse wants to give you context-sensitive help any time of day or night. The only catch? It also wants you to hand over a lot of data.

    As TechRadar's Editor at Large Lance Ulanoff discovered when he put Muse through some vigorous testing, the AI is most useful when it knows as much about you as possible — what's on your calendar, what's in your email inbox, and so on. That means there's a privacy trade-off to be made, and it's unlikely that everyone will be comfortable with it.

    7. Peloton claimed its new treadmills beat smartwatches

    Split image of Tread Vision camera, and journalist running on Peloton Tread Vision

    Can a treadmill replace your wearable? (Image credit: Peloton / Future)

    To get the inside story on the new and improved treadmills from Peloton, our Fitness & Wearables Editor Matt Evans spoke to Peloton executives Nick Caldwell and Meg Higgins about what makes them worth our money — and in particular, the capabilities of the AI-powered camera tracking that can watch your form as you go through your workouts.

    According to the execs, the treadmill cameras can do a better job at assessing how you're doing than wearables strapped to your wrist, and that might be enough to tempt serious athletes into picking up one of the new models. There's plenty more to talk about with these new treadmills too, including a new cushioning system and a redesigned interface.

    6. The Prime Big Deal Days kicked off early

    A collage of tech deals from the Prime Big Deal Days early sale, including a Nintendo Switch 2, Samsung Galaxy Fit 3, Kindle Colorsoft, Ember TV, Anker speaker and Ring doorbell.

    We've got deals for you (Image credit: Future / Nintendo / Samsung / Amazon / Anker)

    Amazon's Prime Big Deal Days is approaching, and the TechRadar team is all over it. Even if you're feeling fatigued in the hunt for top tech discounts, we've got you covered — and while the sales haven't officially started yet, lots of offers are already live. Click through to find significant price drops for hardware from Samsung, Blink, Nintendo, Philips, Anker, and more.

    You can save yourself hundreds of pounds in some cases, and we're coming across certain products that are lower than they've ever been on the retail site. Prime Day proper gets underway on October 6 (next Tuesday), so even if you do avail yourself of some of the deals included here, make sure you check back with TechRadar over the next few days.

    5. A fresh Amazon Fire TV Stick landed with a new remote

    A split image. The Amazon Fire TV 4K Stick with its remote on one side, and the new Fire TV Remote Plus is on the other side.

    There's a new Fire TV Stick on the market (Image credit: Amazon)

    The first Amazon hardware refresh of the week came with a new Fire TV Stick 4K, promising faster performance compared to its previous 4K streaming dongles and bringing with it a redesigned remote control. There are also some AI updates for Alexa+ here, and all for $59.99 / £69.99 (about AU$86, with international pricing to be confirmed).

    According to Amazon, the update remote is more tactile and easier to hold than before, with some tweaks to help you navigate its various buttons through touch alone, without looking at it (you can buy the new remote separately to work with an old Fire TV stick, if you want). Oh, and discounts are being promised to coincide with the Prime Big Deal Days next week.

    4. We were blown away by Vivo’s 400mm phone lens

    Tim Coleman, TechRadar's Cameras Editor, holding the Vivo X500 Pro Max phone with teleconverter lens attached, while stood on a wooden walkway in a birdlife reserve in Shanghai, China

    Testing out the teleconverter lens (Image credit: Tim Coleman )

    When it comes to phone brands, Vivo may not be as well known as the likes of Apple, Samsung, or Google, but it's done something rather special with its new G2 Ultra 4.7x teleconverter lens — a specialist add-on that it just unveiled alongside its flagship X500 series of phones, and which gives you a serious amount of zoom from your phone.

    In the words of our Cameras Editor Tim Coleman, who's been testing out the new accessory, the teleconverter "is a real showcase of what smartphone cameras can be capable of". For the time being, the device is only available to buy in China, but you can check out some of the stunning shots that the G2 Ultra 4.7x is capable of capturing.

    3. The Freckle Phone made us rethink kids' phones

    Freckle

    Meet the Freckle Phone (Image credit: Freckle Phone)

    No one has quite worked out the best age for kids to get phones yet, or what those phones should be allowed to do when they are given to children. The latest device to try and find a solution is the Freckle phone, which has a lot of phone-like features (such as calling and photo-taking), without being weighed down by apps that are potentially unhealthy.

    The design of the Freckle Phone is chunky and colorful, but it's really the software that makes it stand out. The developers of the device have eschewed a conventional operating system to offer a collection of curated apps that encourage kids to get outside and go on adventures — something we can probably all agree is going to be good for their growth.

    2. Samsung revealed its new iPad Pro rival

    The Samsung Galaxy Tab S12 Ultra on a yellow background

    The new Samsung Galaxy Tab S12 Ultra (Image credit: Samsung / Future)

    Samsung has launched two more tablets to take on the iPad, the Galaxy Tab S12 Plus and the Galaxy S12 Ultra. The huge 14.6-inch Ultra is the pick of the pair, bringing with it faster performance and a slimmer design compared to its predecessor, and these two new slates could be the best options you've got at the moment if you want a tablet running Android.

    We've got all the details on the Galaxy Tab pair here, including key specs, starting prices, and our hands-on first impressions — plus there's also a new Samsung Galaxy SmartTag 3 to talk about. Samsung's latest Bluetooth tracker works with iPhones for the first time, and adds new features as well as range improvements when you're trying to hunt down something you've lost.

    1. Amazon's new Kindles fixed our biggest gripes

    Amazon Kindle lineup 2026

    We've got new Kindles (Image credit: Lance Ulanoff / Future)

    Last but not least, we've got the second Amazon hardware unveiling of the week, which was a complete refresh for its Kindle line. The 13th-generation ereaders bring with them changes to the design, some new colors, and aluminum unibodies in some cases, and there are updated accessories too — including devices with physical page turn buttons.

    It feels like another step forward for the Kindle family, even if it's not a huge one, and we're pleased to see the power button has been moved from the bottom to the side of the Kindles for the first time. It's a change that's long overdue and should lead to fewer accidental presses (especially when you've got these Amazon ereaders propped up).

    ]]>     <![CDATA[ Which color ereader should you buy this Prime Day? Here are your options ]]> Thinking of picking up a new color ereader? Now's a good time to shop: there's an Amazon Prime Day event coming up very soon (6-7 October), which means Kindle deals are more than likely. Amazon makes a number of color Kindles these days, and — of course — Kindle isn't the only color ereader option on the market.

    In this guide, I'll run you through all the key color ereader options, including Kindles, Kobo ereaders (the main competitor), and a couple more alternatives. You can see all the current prices directly below, followed by a rundown of what you need to know about each model and if you should hang around for a Prime Day deal or not. Finally, there's a specs table to help you compare the models directly.

    US color ereader links

    Amazon Kindle Colorsoft 16gb (newest Model), Now Thinner and Lighter, 7
    Amazon
    Kindle Colorsoft (2026)

    Amazon Kindle Colorsoft 16 Gb (newest Model) – With Color Display That Brings Covers and Content to Life, Now Highlight in Color – No Ads – Black
    Amazon
    Kindle Colorsoft (no ads, 2024)

    Read our full review

    Pros

    • Finally, color on a Kindle
    • Speedy refresh and zooming

    Cons

    • Doesn’t feel premium enough for the price
    • No way to access Marvel Unlimited or DC Infinite subscriptions

    Amazon Kindle Colorsoft Signature Edition 32gb (newest Model), Thinner, New Aluminum Design, 7
    Amazon
    Kindle Colorsoft Signature Edition (2026)

    Amazon Kindle Colorsoft Signature Edition 32gb (newest Model) – With Color Display, Auto-Adjusting Front Light, Wireless Charging, and Long Battery Life - Metallic Black
    Amazon
    Kindle Colorsoft Signature Edition (2024)

    Amazon Kindle Scribe Colorsoft 64gb (newest Model) — 11” Paper-Like Color Display — Write in Notebooks, Docs, and Books. Read in Any Light. Pen Included - Fig
    Amazon
    Kindle Scribe Colorsoft (64GB)

    Amazon Kindle Scribe Colorsoft 32gb (newest Model) — 11” Paper-Like Color Display — Write in Notebooks, Docs, and Books. Read in Any Light. Pen Included - Graphite
    Amazon
    Kindle Scribe Colorsoft (32GB)

    Kobo Libra Colour | Ereader | 7
    Kobo
    Libra Colour

    Read our full review

    Pros

    • Good size for portability and usability
    • Relatively affordable for a color ereader
    • Full writing features
    • Repair kits available

    Cons

    • Couple of functions suffer from lag
    • Stylus sold separately

    Kobo Clara Colour | Colour Ereader | 6” Glare-Free Colour E Ink Kaleido™ 3 Display | Dark Mode Option | Waterproof | Audiobooks | 16gb of Storage | White
    Kobo
    Clara Colour

    Pros

    • Responsive color display
    • Compact and lightweight
    • Good battery life
    • Relatively affordable

    Cons

    • 6 inches can be too small for some users
    • Black-and-white text lacks contrast

    Pocketbook Verse Pro Color | Super Thin and Compact 6
    PocketBook
    Verse Pro Color

    Boox Tablet Go Color 7 Gen Ii E Ink Tablet Support Active Stylus Inksense (black)
    BOOX
    Go Color 7 Gen II

    UK color ereader links

    Amazon Kindle Colorsoft 16 Gb (newest Gen), Now Thinner and Lighter, 7
    Amazon
    Kindle Colorsoft (2026)

    Amazon Kindle Colorsoft (newest Gen) | With Colour Display and Adjustable Warm Light – 16 Gb
    Amazon
    Kindle Colorsoft (2024)

    Read our full review

    Pros

    • Finally, color on a Kindle
    • Speedy refresh and zooming

    Cons

    • Doesn’t feel premium enough for the price
    • No way to access Marvel Unlimited or DC Infinite subscriptions

    Amazon Kindle Colorsoft Signature Edition 32 Gb (newest Gen), Thinner, New Aluminium Design, 7
    Amazon
    Kindle Colorsoft Signature 32 GB (2026)

    Amazon Kindle Colorsoft Signature Edition (newest Gen) | With Colour Display, Auto-Adjusting Front Light, Wireless Charging and Long Battery Life – 32gb
    Amazon
    Kindle Colorsoft Signature (2024)

    Amazon Kindle Scribe Colorsoft 32 Gb (newest Gen) — 11
    Amazon
    Kindle Scribe Colorsoft, 32GB

    Amazon Kindle Scribe Colorsoft 64 Gb (newest Gen) — 11” Paper-Like Colour Display With Front Light — Thin, Light, Powerful — Write in the Built-In Notebook, Documents and Books - Fig
    Amazon
    Kindle Scribe Colorsoft, 64GB

    Libra Colour 7-Inch Ereader - E Ink Kaleido 3 Colour Display, Kobo Stylus 2 Compatibility, Waterproof - White - White
    Kobo
    Libra Colour

    Kobo Clara Colour | Colour Ereader | 6” Glare-Free Colour E Ink Kaleido™ 3 Display | Dark Mode Option | Waterproof | Audiobooks | 16gb of Storage | White
    Kobo
    Clara Colour

    Pros

    • Responsive color display
    • Compact and lightweight
    • Good battery life
    • Relatively affordable

    Cons

    • 6 inches can be too small for some users
    • Black-and-white text lacks contrast

    Pocketbook Verse Pro Colour - 6
    PocketBook
    Verse Pro Colour

    Boox Tablet Go Color 7 Gen Ii E Ink Tablet Support Active Stylus Inksense (black)
    BOOX
    Go Color 7 Gen II

    Amazon Kindle Colorsoft

    The Kindle Colorsoft is Amazon's standard color ereader — essentially, the color version of the Paperwhite. All Kindle Colorcofts have a 7-inch screen, battery life og around 12 weeks, and waterproofing to IPX8. None have writing capabilities.

    There are a few Kindle Colorsoft options — the regular (with 16GB of storage) and Signature versions (32GB), both in 2024 and all-new 2026 versions. I'm not sure how long the 2024 versions will be sticking around. The 2026 versions are thinner and lighter, and the power button has been shifted so it's on the side rather than at the bottom. Some options are also available with or without ads.

    Amazon Kindle Colorsoft 2026 version

    (Image credit: Amazon)

    Will there be a deal?

    The announcement of the updated lineup at the start of October has confused things rather. Just prior to the appearance of the new models, Amazon discounted most of the previous range in the UK. These deals are still available, and they're good: up to 44% off. I'm not expecting prices to drop further on these models during Prime Day itself.

    In the US, there were no deals to speak of on the now-old Kindle Colorsofts, and that's still the case at time of writing (2 Oct). I am hopeful that they will get a discount during the official Prime Day event.

    As for the 2026 models — I'm not sure. A discount so soon after launch feels a little strange, but then again, Amazon almost always drops its Kindle prices during Prime Day events. I'll be watching closely to see what happens.

    Kindle Scribe Colorsoft

    The Kindle Scribe Colorsoft is a kind of blend of the Kindle Scribe and the Kindle Colorsoft, in that it's a color ereader with writing support. It has a generous 11-inch screen (the largest of any model here), and a price tag that's so lofty you could buy a Colorsoft and a Scribe individually and still get a bit of change from how much you'd spend on a Scribe Colorsoft. It's available in 32GB and 64GB versions, and it hasn't been updated for 2026 — but then, it did only launch in December 2025.

    Amazon Kindle Scribe Colorsoft held over a desk, reading a page from the Hellblazer comic.

    (Image credit: Future/Rami Tabari)

    Will there be a deal?

    Almost certainly. This ereader was included in the June Prime Day event, and because it's not brand new, there's no reason it wouldn't be included this time round too.

    In fact, both the 32GB and 64GB versions are already on sale in the UK, each with 30% off — down to £399 and £439.99 respectively. For comparison, the 64GB version only fell to £492.99 in June, so this is a much better deal.

    The US deals aren't live yet, but I am expecting them to appear at some point, although perhaps not until Prime Day itself. During the June event, the 64GB version dropped to $519.99 (was $679.99).

    However, even with those discounts it's a very pricey tablet. In that bracket, it's worth weighing up whether a BOOX Go Color 7 Gen II, which is also a color ereader with writing support, and in fact operates like a full e-ink tablet, is a better buy.

    Kobo Clara / Libra Colour

    Kobo is probably the main Kindle alternative. The Clara is the ereader-only version, with a relatively small 6-inch screen, while the Libra can also be used for writing (stylus sold separately), and has a 7-inch screen. We have an article covering the differences between Kindle vs Kobo, but overall we rate this brand really highly. In fact, it's the Kobo Libra Colour that holds the top spot in our best ereader ranking.

    A book cover displayed in color on the Kobo Libra Colour ereader

    (Image credit: Sharmishta Sarkar / TechRadar)

    Will there be a deal?

    Perhaps. Over the most recent Prime Day, the Libra Colour ereader was discounted to $229.99 (was $259.99) in the US. In the UK it stayed at full price (£209.99), though. The Clara Colour didn't get a discount in the US or the UK. At time of writing, both are full price on Amazon.

    PocketBook Verse Pro Color

    The Verse Pro Colour from PocketBook has a 6-inch screen and 16GB of storage. The battery life is shorter than all the others here (aside, possibly, from the Boox Go Color 7 Gen II, which doesn't provide a runtime) although you'll still get around a month of reading per charge. There are no writing features.

    Will there be a deal?

    Possibly not. This is a smaller player in the ereader world, and not necessarily a model Amazon would focus on for discounts. We didn't see a deal in the US over Prime Day in June (unfortunately, I don't have the information for the UK).

    BOOX Go Color 7 Gen II

    BOOX, from parent company Onyx, is more of an e-ink tablet than an ereader specifically. Because these tablets run a full version of Android, you can use them for a variety of tasks, of which reading is just one. As a result, the Go Color 7 Gen II is a relatively pricey color ereader option. It packs 64GB of storage, supports writing functionality, and is not waterproof — so it's no good for reading in the tub.

    In our Boox Go Color 7 Gen II review, we weren't too impressed with the display quality on this model. A benefit if you're a current Kindle owner looking to switch is that it's possible to download the Kindle app onto a BOOX, meaning you'd still have access to your current library of books. You'll find more information in my BOOX vs Kobo explainer.

    The app list on the Boox Go Color 7 Gen II ereader

    (Image credit: Sharmishta Sarkar / TechRadar)

    Will there be a deal?

    Perhaps not. We didn't see any deals in the US or UK during the most recent Prime Day event.

    Specs compared

    ]]>     https://www.techradar.com/tablets/ereaders/which-color-ereader-should-you-buy-this-prime-day-here-are-your-options YFtXu5Jvcc9Fk9W9XQRrcH Sat, 03 Oct 2026 10:00:00 +0000 false false false

    Thinking of picking up a new color ereader? Now's a good time to shop: there's an Amazon Prime Day event coming up very soon (6-7 October), which means Kindle deals are more than likely. Amazon makes a number of color Kindles these days, and — of course — Kindle isn't the only color ereader option on the market.

    In this guide, I'll run you through all the key color ereader options, including Kindles, Kobo ereaders (the main competitor), and a couple more alternatives. You can see all the current prices directly below, followed by a rundown of what you need to know about each model and if you should hang around for a Prime Day deal or not. Finally, there's a specs table to help you compare the models directly.

    US color ereader links

    Amazon Kindle Colorsoft 16gb (newest Model), Now Thinner and Lighter, 7
    Amazon
    Kindle Colorsoft (2026)

    Amazon Kindle Colorsoft 16 Gb (newest Model) – With Color Display That Brings Covers and Content to Life, Now Highlight in Color – No Ads – Black
    Amazon
    Kindle Colorsoft (no ads, 2024)

    Read our full review

    Pros

    • Finally, color on a Kindle
    • Speedy refresh and zooming

    Cons

    • Doesn’t feel premium enough for the price
    • No way to access Marvel Unlimited or DC Infinite subscriptions

    Amazon Kindle Colorsoft Signature Edition 32gb (newest Model), Thinner, New Aluminum Design, 7
    Amazon
    Kindle Colorsoft Signature Edition (2026)

    Amazon Kindle Colorsoft Signature Edition 32gb (newest Model) – With Color Display, Auto-Adjusting Front Light, Wireless Charging, and Long Battery Life - Metallic Black
    Amazon
    Kindle Colorsoft Signature Edition (2024)

    Amazon Kindle Scribe Colorsoft 64gb (newest Model) — 11” Paper-Like Color Display — Write in Notebooks, Docs, and Books. Read in Any Light. Pen Included - Fig
    Amazon
    Kindle Scribe Colorsoft (64GB)

    Amazon Kindle Scribe Colorsoft 32gb (newest Model) — 11” Paper-Like Color Display — Write in Notebooks, Docs, and Books. Read in Any Light. Pen Included - Graphite
    Amazon
    Kindle Scribe Colorsoft (32GB)

    Kobo Libra Colour | Ereader | 7
    Kobo
    Libra Colour

    Read our full review

    Pros

    • Good size for portability and usability
    • Relatively affordable for a color ereader
    • Full writing features
    • Repair kits available

    Cons

    • Couple of functions suffer from lag
    • Stylus sold separately

    Kobo Clara Colour | Colour Ereader | 6” Glare-Free Colour E Ink Kaleido™ 3 Display | Dark Mode Option | Waterproof | Audiobooks | 16gb of Storage | White
    Kobo
    Clara Colour

    Pros

    • Responsive color display
    • Compact and lightweight
    • Good battery life
    • Relatively affordable

    Cons

    • 6 inches can be too small for some users
    • Black-and-white text lacks contrast

    Pocketbook Verse Pro Color | Super Thin and Compact 6
    PocketBook
    Verse Pro Color

    Boox Tablet Go Color 7 Gen Ii E Ink Tablet Support Active Stylus Inksense (black)
    BOOX
    Go Color 7 Gen II

    UK color ereader links

    Amazon Kindle Colorsoft 16 Gb (newest Gen), Now Thinner and Lighter, 7
    Amazon
    Kindle Colorsoft (2026)

    Amazon Kindle Colorsoft (newest Gen) | With Colour Display and Adjustable Warm Light – 16 Gb
    Amazon
    Kindle Colorsoft (2024)

    Read our full review

    Pros

    • Finally, color on a Kindle
    • Speedy refresh and zooming

    Cons

    • Doesn’t feel premium enough for the price
    • No way to access Marvel Unlimited or DC Infinite subscriptions

    Amazon Kindle Colorsoft Signature Edition 32 Gb (newest Gen), Thinner, New Aluminium Design, 7
    Amazon
    Kindle Colorsoft Signature 32 GB (2026)

    Amazon Kindle Colorsoft Signature Edition (newest Gen) | With Colour Display, Auto-Adjusting Front Light, Wireless Charging and Long Battery Life – 32gb
    Amazon
    Kindle Colorsoft Signature (2024)

    Amazon Kindle Scribe Colorsoft 32 Gb (newest Gen) — 11
    Amazon
    Kindle Scribe Colorsoft, 32GB

    Amazon Kindle Scribe Colorsoft 64 Gb (newest Gen) — 11” Paper-Like Colour Display With Front Light — Thin, Light, Powerful — Write in the Built-In Notebook, Documents and Books - Fig
    Amazon
    Kindle Scribe Colorsoft, 64GB

    Libra Colour 7-Inch Ereader - E Ink Kaleido 3 Colour Display, Kobo Stylus 2 Compatibility, Waterproof - White - White
    Kobo
    Libra Colour

    Kobo Clara Colour | Colour Ereader | 6” Glare-Free Colour E Ink Kaleido™ 3 Display | Dark Mode Option | Waterproof | Audiobooks | 16gb of Storage | White
    Kobo
    Clara Colour

    Pros

    • Responsive color display
    • Compact and lightweight
    • Good battery life
    • Relatively affordable

    Cons

    • 6 inches can be too small for some users
    • Black-and-white text lacks contrast

    Pocketbook Verse Pro Colour - 6
    PocketBook
    Verse Pro Colour

    Boox Tablet Go Color 7 Gen Ii E Ink Tablet Support Active Stylus Inksense (black)
    BOOX
    Go Color 7 Gen II

    Amazon Kindle Colorsoft

    The Kindle Colorsoft is Amazon's standard color ereader — essentially, the color version of the Paperwhite. All Kindle Colorcofts have a 7-inch screen, battery life og around 12 weeks, and waterproofing to IPX8. None have writing capabilities.

    There are a few Kindle Colorsoft options — the regular (with 16GB of storage) and Signature versions (32GB), both in 2024 and all-new 2026 versions. I'm not sure how long the 2024 versions will be sticking around. The 2026 versions are thinner and lighter, and the power button has been shifted so it's on the side rather than at the bottom. Some options are also available with or without ads.

    Amazon Kindle Colorsoft 2026 version

    (Image credit: Amazon)

    Will there be a deal?

    The announcement of the updated lineup at the start of October has confused things rather. Just prior to the appearance of the new models, Amazon discounted most of the previous range in the UK. These deals are still available, and they're good: up to 44% off. I'm not expecting prices to drop further on these models during Prime Day itself.

    In the US, there were no deals to speak of on the now-old Kindle Colorsofts, and that's still the case at time of writing (2 Oct). I am hopeful that they will get a discount during the official Prime Day event.

    As for the 2026 models — I'm not sure. A discount so soon after launch feels a little strange, but then again, Amazon almost always drops its Kindle prices during Prime Day events. I'll be watching closely to see what happens.

    Kindle Scribe Colorsoft

    The Kindle Scribe Colorsoft is a kind of blend of the Kindle Scribe and the Kindle Colorsoft, in that it's a color ereader with writing support. It has a generous 11-inch screen (the largest of any model here), and a price tag that's so lofty you could buy a Colorsoft and a Scribe individually and still get a bit of change from how much you'd spend on a Scribe Colorsoft. It's available in 32GB and 64GB versions, and it hasn't been updated for 2026 — but then, it did only launch in December 2025.

    Amazon Kindle Scribe Colorsoft held over a desk, reading a page from the Hellblazer comic.

    (Image credit: Future/Rami Tabari)

    Will there be a deal?

    Almost certainly. This ereader was included in the June Prime Day event, and because it's not brand new, there's no reason it wouldn't be included this time round too.

    In fact, both the 32GB and 64GB versions are already on sale in the UK, each with 30% off — down to £399 and £439.99 respectively. For comparison, the 64GB version only fell to £492.99 in June, so this is a much better deal.

    The US deals aren't live yet, but I am expecting them to appear at some point, although perhaps not until Prime Day itself. During the June event, the 64GB version dropped to $519.99 (was $679.99).

    However, even with those discounts it's a very pricey tablet. In that bracket, it's worth weighing up whether a BOOX Go Color 7 Gen II, which is also a color ereader with writing support, and in fact operates like a full e-ink tablet, is a better buy.

    Kobo Clara / Libra Colour

    Kobo is probably the main Kindle alternative. The Clara is the ereader-only version, with a relatively small 6-inch screen, while the Libra can also be used for writing (stylus sold separately), and has a 7-inch screen. We have an article covering the differences between Kindle vs Kobo, but overall we rate this brand really highly. In fact, it's the Kobo Libra Colour that holds the top spot in our best ereader ranking.

    A book cover displayed in color on the Kobo Libra Colour ereader

    (Image credit: Sharmishta Sarkar / TechRadar)

    Will there be a deal?

    Perhaps. Over the most recent Prime Day, the Libra Colour ereader was discounted to $229.99 (was $259.99) in the US. In the UK it stayed at full price (£209.99), though. The Clara Colour didn't get a discount in the US or the UK. At time of writing, both are full price on Amazon.

    PocketBook Verse Pro Color

    The Verse Pro Colour from PocketBook has a 6-inch screen and 16GB of storage. The battery life is shorter than all the others here (aside, possibly, from the Boox Go Color 7 Gen II, which doesn't provide a runtime) although you'll still get around a month of reading per charge. There are no writing features.

    Will there be a deal?

    Possibly not. This is a smaller player in the ereader world, and not necessarily a model Amazon would focus on for discounts. We didn't see a deal in the US over Prime Day in June (unfortunately, I don't have the information for the UK).

    BOOX Go Color 7 Gen II

    BOOX, from parent company Onyx, is more of an e-ink tablet than an ereader specifically. Because these tablets run a full version of Android, you can use them for a variety of tasks, of which reading is just one. As a result, the Go Color 7 Gen II is a relatively pricey color ereader option. It packs 64GB of storage, supports writing functionality, and is not waterproof — so it's no good for reading in the tub.

    In our Boox Go Color 7 Gen II review, we weren't too impressed with the display quality on this model. A benefit if you're a current Kindle owner looking to switch is that it's possible to download the Kindle app onto a BOOX, meaning you'd still have access to your current library of books. You'll find more information in my BOOX vs Kobo explainer.

    The app list on the Boox Go Color 7 Gen II ereader

    (Image credit: Sharmishta Sarkar / TechRadar)

    Will there be a deal?

    Perhaps not. We didn't see any deals in the US or UK during the most recent Prime Day event.

    Specs compared

    ]]>     <![CDATA[ What is the release date for Mike Flanagan's Carrie on Prime Video? ]]> The wait is almost over, horror fans, because Mike Flanagan's anticipated Carrie adaptation arrives on Prime Video this month. I've been excitedly counting down the days, as a long time fan of Flanagan's work.

    His take on Carrie is set in the modern era, meaning social media plays an important part in the bullying that our protagonist faces, eventually leading up to the iconic and deadly prom scene we all know and love.

    Summer H Howell is stepping into the shoes of Stephen King's Carrie White for this adaptation, which arrives on our screens in early October. She's joined by a great cast including Scream's Matthew Lillard and Samantha Sloyan, who starred in Flanagan's Netflix series Midnight Mass.

    Here's everything you need to know about when and where you can watch Carrie.

    What time can I watch Carrie on Prime Video?

    Carrie arrives on Prime Video on Wednesday, October 7, just in time for your Halloween celebrations, alongside this month's new horror movies.

    Usually new releases hit the platform at midnight Pacific Time, so based on that, here's when Carrie is expected to release around the world.

    US – Wednesday, October 7 at 12am PT / 9pm ET

    Canada – Wednesday, October 7 at 12am PT / 9pm ET

    UK – Wednesday, October 7 at 8am BST

    India – Wednesday, October 7 at 12:30pm IST

    Singapore – Wednesday, October 7 at 3pm SGT

    Australia – Wednesday, October 7 at 5pm AEDT

    New Zealand – Wednesday, October 7at 8pm NZDT

    When do new episodes of Carrie come out?

    Summer H. Howell and Samantha Sloyan in Carrie

    (Image credit: Prime Video)

    I have good news for binge watchers, because all eight episodes of Carrie will drop at the same time on October 7. You can also check out the episode titles for the upcoming series below.

    Here's what to expect from Prime Video's Carrie.

    Episode 1: First Period – October 7, 2026

    Episode 2: Foreign Language – October 7, 2026

    Episode 3: Social Studies – October 7, 2026

    Episode 4: Dramatic Arts – October 7, 2026

    Episode 5: Physical Education – October 7, 2026

    Episode 6: Home Economics – October 7, 2026

    Episode 7: Romantic Literature – October 7, 2026

    Episode 8: AP Physics – October 7, 2026

    ]]>     https://www.techradar.com/streaming/amazon-prime-video/what-is-the-release-date-for-mike-flanagans-carrie-on-prime-video pq9gim2kV8TFP6R2TtMvK5 Sat, 03 Oct 2026 10:00:00 +0000 false false false

    The wait is almost over, horror fans, because Mike Flanagan's anticipated Carrie adaptation arrives on Prime Video this month. I've been excitedly counting down the days, as a long time fan of Flanagan's work.

    His take on Carrie is set in the modern era, meaning social media plays an important part in the bullying that our protagonist faces, eventually leading up to the iconic and deadly prom scene we all know and love.

    Summer H Howell is stepping into the shoes of Stephen King's Carrie White for this adaptation, which arrives on our screens in early October. She's joined by a great cast including Scream's Matthew Lillard and Samantha Sloyan, who starred in Flanagan's Netflix series Midnight Mass.

    Here's everything you need to know about when and where you can watch Carrie.

    What time can I watch Carrie on Prime Video?

    Carrie arrives on Prime Video on Wednesday, October 7, just in time for your Halloween celebrations, alongside this month's new horror movies.

    Usually new releases hit the platform at midnight Pacific Time, so based on that, here's when Carrie is expected to release around the world.

    US – Wednesday, October 7 at 12am PT / 9pm ET

    Canada – Wednesday, October 7 at 12am PT / 9pm ET

    UK – Wednesday, October 7 at 8am BST

    India – Wednesday, October 7 at 12:30pm IST

    Singapore – Wednesday, October 7 at 3pm SGT

    Australia – Wednesday, October 7 at 5pm AEDT

    New Zealand – Wednesday, October 7at 8pm NZDT

    When do new episodes of Carrie come out?

    Summer H. Howell and Samantha Sloyan in Carrie

    (Image credit: Prime Video)

    I have good news for binge watchers, because all eight episodes of Carrie will drop at the same time on October 7. You can also check out the episode titles for the upcoming series below.

    Here's what to expect from Prime Video's Carrie.

    Episode 1: First Period – October 7, 2026

    Episode 2: Foreign Language – October 7, 2026

    Episode 3: Social Studies – October 7, 2026

    Episode 4: Dramatic Arts – October 7, 2026

    Episode 5: Physical Education – October 7, 2026

    Episode 6: Home Economics – October 7, 2026

    Episode 7: Romantic Literature – October 7, 2026

    Episode 8: AP Physics – October 7, 2026

    ]]>     <![CDATA[ Thrustmaster 'enters a new era' with its officially licensed Gran Turismo 7 T-GT III steering wheel for PS4 and PS5 ]]>
  • The Thrustmaster T-GT III Steering Wheel has been announced for PS4 and PS5
  • The new hardware is designed for Gran Turismo 7 and offered in a Direct Axial Drive bundle for the first time
  • The T-GT III will cost $749.99 / £649.99 / €699.99

    • Thrustmaster has unveiled the T-GT III Steering Wheel for PS4 and PS5, the latest addition to its ongoing 16-year-long partnership with Gran Turismo.

    The Thrustmaster T-GT III is designed for Gran Turismo 7, the newest entry in Polyphony Digital's long-running racing series, and will launch on December 3 for $749.99 / £649.99 / €699.99.

    The package includes the iconic T-GT steering wheel, featuring a leather finish and four rotary encoders mapped for Gran Turismo.

    "Engineered without compromise for the most demanding sim racers, the T-GT III represents the ultimate expression of Thrustmaster's expertise and delivers an authentic and immersive Gran Turismo experience in a turnkey bundle," Thrustmaster said.

    The T-GT series "enters a new era" with the T-GT III and is "the very first Direct Axial Drive bundle designed for Gran Turismo and "the first to natively integrate a load-cell pedal set."

    Thrustmaster T-GT III
    Thrustmaster
    Thrustmaster T-GT III
    Thrustmaster
    Thrustmaster T-GT III
    Thrustmaster

    The steering wheel delivers a constant torque of 5 Nm with an overshoot capacity of up to 10 Nm, preventing saturation and guaranteeing ultra-low latency and instant responsiveness.

    Combined with Thrustmaster’s Harmony technology and the high-frequency torque, the steering wheel also offers purpose-built haptic effects for the game with "Gear Jolt," which lets players feel gear shifts, while "Engine Roar" makes the chassis resonate in time with the engine’s RPM.

    "We have a long-standing partnership with Thrustmaster, who, over the years, have remained faithful to Gran Turismo by offering solutions that enhance the driving experience," said Kazunori Yamauchi, producer of the Gran Turismo series. "The journey we’ve taken together has allowed us to extend the desired sensations through a steering wheel as technology and the game have evolved. We are delighted to welcome them as partners of Gran Turismo World Series."

    Thrustmaster will continue to evolve the T-GT III through software and firmware updates to keep pace with Gran Turismo's Spec updates (Spec IV is the next free update releasing in two parts, with the first arriving this month and the second in December), ensuring long-term support for players.

    "Meeting Gran Turismo’s exacting standards is no small feat. In the 16 years we’ve been working together, Yamauchi-san’s motto has remained a commitment to the game in every sense of the word; this has allowed us to take on projects that we believe no one else would have accepted in order to achieve that level of fidelity," said Gilles Raulet, director of development and licensing at Thrustmaster.

    "This collaboration continues to inspire our teams year after year because passion remains at the heart of our discussions."

    ]]>     https://www.techradar.com/gaming/thrustmaster-enters-a-new-era-with-its-officially-licensed-gran-turismo-7-t-gt-iii-steering-wheel-for-ps4-and-ps5 8tPvdEEavPLspBE4kVSQfh Sat, 03 Oct 2026 09:20:00 +0000 false false false
    • The Thrustmaster T-GT III Steering Wheel has been announced for PS4 and PS5
    • The new hardware is designed for Gran Turismo 7 and offered in a Direct Axial Drive bundle for the first time
    • The T-GT III will cost $749.99 / £649.99 / €699.99

    Thrustmaster has unveiled the T-GT III Steering Wheel for PS4 and PS5, the latest addition to its ongoing 16-year-long partnership with Gran Turismo.

    The Thrustmaster T-GT III is designed for Gran Turismo 7, the newest entry in Polyphony Digital's long-running racing series, and will launch on December 3 for $749.99 / £649.99 / €699.99.

    The package includes the iconic T-GT steering wheel, featuring a leather finish and four rotary encoders mapped for Gran Turismo.

    "Engineered without compromise for the most demanding sim racers, the T-GT III represents the ultimate expression of Thrustmaster's expertise and delivers an authentic and immersive Gran Turismo experience in a turnkey bundle," Thrustmaster said.

    The T-GT series "enters a new era" with the T-GT III and is "the very first Direct Axial Drive bundle designed for Gran Turismo and "the first to natively integrate a load-cell pedal set."

    Thrustmaster T-GT III
    Thrustmaster
    Thrustmaster T-GT III
    Thrustmaster
    Thrustmaster T-GT III
    Thrustmaster

    The steering wheel delivers a constant torque of 5 Nm with an overshoot capacity of up to 10 Nm, preventing saturation and guaranteeing ultra-low latency and instant responsiveness.

    Combined with Thrustmaster’s Harmony technology and the high-frequency torque, the steering wheel also offers purpose-built haptic effects for the game with "Gear Jolt," which lets players feel gear shifts, while "Engine Roar" makes the chassis resonate in time with the engine’s RPM.

    "We have a long-standing partnership with Thrustmaster, who, over the years, have remained faithful to Gran Turismo by offering solutions that enhance the driving experience," said Kazunori Yamauchi, producer of the Gran Turismo series. "The journey we’ve taken together has allowed us to extend the desired sensations through a steering wheel as technology and the game have evolved. We are delighted to welcome them as partners of Gran Turismo World Series."

    Thrustmaster will continue to evolve the T-GT III through software and firmware updates to keep pace with Gran Turismo's Spec updates (Spec IV is the next free update releasing in two parts, with the first arriving this month and the second in December), ensuring long-term support for players.

    "Meeting Gran Turismo’s exacting standards is no small feat. In the 16 years we’ve been working together, Yamauchi-san’s motto has remained a commitment to the game in every sense of the word; this has allowed us to take on projects that we believe no one else would have accepted in order to achieve that level of fidelity," said Gilles Raulet, director of development and licensing at Thrustmaster.

    "This collaboration continues to inspire our teams year after year because passion remains at the heart of our discussions."

    ]]>     <![CDATA[ Your boss might be bluffing about how much AI knowledge they really have ]]>
  • Even bosses are lying about how much they know about AI, study finds
  • Many leaders are stressed about AI's impact on their roles
  • Emergn calls for more relevant, human-centric training

    • As many as one in four (23%) UK senior leaders could be bluffing about how much AI knowledge they actually have, new Emergn research has claimed.

    The study implies the leaders could be embarrassed or uncomfortable with admitting gaps, given that 38% now believe their career prospects could suffer unless they significantly improve their AI skills over the next year.

    But despite lying themselves, top-down pressure actually sees nearly half (43%) valuing AI skills more highly than formal qualifications.

    Senior leaders could be lying about their AI skills

    Though the report doesn't go into detailed why they might be lying, one of the potential factors implied by underlying data is fear or uncertainty. One in five (22%) feel anxious or lose sleep because off how quickly AI is changing their industry, with an equal number of leaders also feeling out of their depth because of AI's impact on their role.

    "It is hard to admit you do not understand something when you are supposed to be the person with the answers," CEO Alex Adamopoulos explained.

    But with senior leaders typically sitting toward the top of an organization, ownership of the problem is less clear. While only 43% say they've received substantial AI training over the past 12 months, the jury's still out on whose responsibility this is, and whether it should lie with IT teams.

    Emergn argues that training should focus on helping employees actually solve the problems they encounter every day at work, but the company also stresses that artificial intelligence is a new technology for us all and leaders as much as regular workers should be prepared to learn openly and acknowledge gaps in their knowledge.

    "People need to see a future for themselves as the work changes," Adamopoulos added.

    Google logo on a black background next to text reading 'Click to follow TechRadar'

    ]]>     https://www.techradar.com/pro/your-boss-might-be-bluffing-about-how-much-ai-knowledge-they-really-have g2QcMSazJKTGgFyymeBFET Sat, 03 Oct 2026 06:00:00 +0000 false false false
    • Even bosses are lying about how much they know about AI, study finds
    • Many leaders are stressed about AI's impact on their roles
    • Emergn calls for more relevant, human-centric training

    As many as one in four (23%) UK senior leaders could be bluffing about how much AI knowledge they actually have, new Emergn research has claimed.

    The study implies the leaders could be embarrassed or uncomfortable with admitting gaps, given that 38% now believe their career prospects could suffer unless they significantly improve their AI skills over the next year.

    But despite lying themselves, top-down pressure actually sees nearly half (43%) valuing AI skills more highly than formal qualifications.

    Senior leaders could be lying about their AI skills

    Though the report doesn't go into detailed why they might be lying, one of the potential factors implied by underlying data is fear or uncertainty. One in five (22%) feel anxious or lose sleep because off how quickly AI is changing their industry, with an equal number of leaders also feeling out of their depth because of AI's impact on their role.

    "It is hard to admit you do not understand something when you are supposed to be the person with the answers," CEO Alex Adamopoulos explained.

    But with senior leaders typically sitting toward the top of an organization, ownership of the problem is less clear. While only 43% say they've received substantial AI training over the past 12 months, the jury's still out on whose responsibility this is, and whether it should lie with IT teams.

    Emergn argues that training should focus on helping employees actually solve the problems they encounter every day at work, but the company also stresses that artificial intelligence is a new technology for us all and leaders as much as regular workers should be prepared to learn openly and acknowledge gaps in their knowledge.

    "People need to see a future for themselves as the work changes," Adamopoulos added.

    Google logo on a black background next to text reading 'Click to follow TechRadar'

    ]]>     <![CDATA[ How to watch Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia 2026: Live stream F1 race from anywhere ]]>
  • Bahrain GP (October 2-4)
  • Qualifying: Saturday, October 3 — 9am BST / 4pm ET
  • Free stream: RTBF Auvio (Belgium) / Servus (Austria)
  • Stream safely and securely with NordVPN (try 100% risk-free)

    • Watch the 2026 Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia live streams to see whether Max Verstappen can claim his first victory of the season – and defend his Sepang victory from 2017. He took his first pole of 2026 after looking strong throughout Friday and Saturday, finishing 0.298s ahead of long-time rival Lewis Hamilton, who put on a stormer of a lap after the Ferraris looked off the pace in practice.

    This is the 15th time – and first since Abu Dhabi in 2021 – that Verstappen and Hamilton will share the front row. They also did so the last time F1 raced in Sepang, in 2017. The other Ferrari of Charles Leclerc will start fourth, but it will be interesting to see just how well the Scuderia handle the raw straight-line speed demands in race conditions.

    Isack Hadjar, who finished on the podium on his injury return in Baku, did well to qualify third but will serve a five-place grid penalty for the race. As a result, 20-year-old championship leader Kimi Antonelli will move to third, while his teammate and Azerbaijan winner George Russell will start a lowly seventh. Mercedes brought an updated package this weekend, but it hasn’t helped one bit – quite the opposite.

    Antonelli, though, will know that claiming victory from Max will be tough, but a podium is certainly on the cards, something he won’t mind given he’s 66 points ahead of Russell, 103 ahead of Hamilton, and 139 ahead of Verstappen.

    A large portion of the current grid hasn’t raced in Sepang, a purpose-built circuit that’s making its return due to the ongoing situation in the Middle East. With two long straights, a total of four straight zones, a high-speed middle sector, and the potential for rain, we could be in for an exciting weekend.

    Elsewhere, McLaren are having a tough time trying to bounce back after a disastrous Azerbaijan GP. There, Lando Norris got DNF’d by Franco Colapinto’s misjudgment and then Oscar Piastri, who looked set for a podium finish, locked up into turn one to finish outside the points. They’ll be starting fifth and sixth, respectively.

    Here’s how to watch the Bahrain Grand Prix 2026 online from anywhere and potentially for FREE.

    Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia 2026 Schedule

    Practice 1: Friday, October 2 | 9am BST / 4am ET - Verstappen fastest
    Practice 2: Friday, October 2 | 9am BST / 4am ET - Leclerc fastest
    Practice 3: Saturday, October 3 | 5:30am BST / 12:30am ET - Antonelli fastest
    Qualifying: Saturday, October 3 | 9am BST / 4am ET - Verstappen pole
    Bahrain Grand Prix: Sunday, October 4 | 8am BST / 3am ET

    Bahrain Grand Prix 2026 Starting Grid

    1) Max Verstappen - Red Bull

    2) Lewis Hamilton - Ferrari

    3) Kimi Antonelli - Mercedes

    4) Charles Leclerc - Ferrari

    5) Lando Norris - McLaren

    6) Oscar Piastri - McLaren

    7) George Russell - Mercedes

    8) Isack Hadjar - Red Bull (5-place grid penalty)

    9) Pierre Gasly - Alpine

    10) Gabriel Bortoleto - Audi

    11) Liam Lawson - Racing Bulls

    12) Fernando Alonso - Aston Martin

    13) Carlos Sainz - Williams

    14) Lance Stroll - Aston Martin

    15) Nico Hulkenberg - Audi

    16) Oliver Bearman - Haas

    17) Esteban Ocon - Haas

    18) Alexander Albon - Williams

    19) Valtteri Bottas - Cadillac

    20) Sergio Perez - Cadillac

    21) Franco Colapinto - Alpine (15-place grid penalty)

    22) Arvid Lindblad - Racing Bulls (back-of-the-grid penalty)

    How to watch the Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia 2026 for FREE

    The 2026 Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia isn't available for free in every country. However, in these select destinations lucky F1 fans can catch the practice sessions, qualifying, and the entire race/highlights for FREE.

    • Austria – Servus (free live broadcast)
    • Belgium – RTBF Auvio (free live broadcast)
    • Luxembourg – RTL Play (free live broadcast)
    • Australia – 10Play (free highlights)
    • Canada – CTV (free highlights)
    • UK – Channel 4 (free highlights)
    • US – Apple TV (free trial) (free live broadcast of every Practice session)

    Traveling abroad during the 2026 Bahrain Grand Prix? You can use a VPN to watch all the action free of charge as if you were right at home.

    How to watch the Bahrain Grand Prix 2026 from anywhere

    🌎 ABROAD? The Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia 2026 is broadcast in many countries around the world but if you're traveling outside your country you should consider using one of the best VPNs to unlock your domestic streaming service provided it does not infringe any terms and conditions.

    🟩 NordVPN – 75% off the world's best VPN today

    Not having a VPN is like leaving your front door wide open in a busy city – anyone can walk right in and take a peek.

    TechRadar regularly reviews all the biggest and best VPN providers and NordVPN is our #1 choice.

    ✅ 3 Extra Months FREE
    ✅ Unlocks F1 live streams
    ✅ 30-day month back guarantee

    Get NordVPN and stream the Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia 2026 from wherever you are.View Deal

    How to watch the Bahrain Grand Prix 2026 in the US

    US flag

    Apple TV will show the Bahrain Grand Prix in the US.

    F1 TV will be bundled with your Apple TV subscription at no additional cost. Subscriptions start at $14.99 per month or $119 per year. Even better, new Apple TV subscribers get a handy 7-day FREE trial.

    If you want to catch the F1 Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia but are traveling outside North America, make sure to use NordVPN to access your usual services securely.View Deal

    How to watch the Bahrain GP 2026 in the UK

    uk flag banner

    In the UK, Sky Sports F1 is carrying live coverage of the entire F1 season, including the Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia.

    Sky Sports packages start from £22 per month. Or you can use a more flexible streaming option, Now, (formerly Now TV). NOW Sports passes start at £14.99 with monthly options from £27.99.View Deal

    How to watch the Bahrain Grand Prix 2026 in Australia

    Australian flag

    Aussie F1 fans can use Fox Sports via Kayo (free trial) for full HD coverage and multi-screen viewing options to stream the 2026 F1 Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia.

    Kayo offers two plans: Standard and Premium. The Standard plan starts at AU$29.99 per month (just AU$9.99 for your first month).

    Australia's 10Play streaming platform will be showing the full highlights of all the weekend events completely free.

    Traveling outside Oz? Australian F1 fans can still watch the F1 2026 season on their usual stream by using NordVPN.View Deal

    How to watch the Bahrain Grand Prix 2026 in Canada

    Canada

    (Image credit: Other)

    Canadian F1 fans can watch the F1 2026 season, including the Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia, on TSN.

    If you’ve ditched the cord, you’ll want to check out TSN Plus, which costs $24.99/month for full access. The TSN app will allow you to live stream F1 practice sessions, qualifying and the race from your phone, streaming box or supported device.

    Use NordVPN if you're outside the country for the race.View Deal

    Drivers' Championship Standings (after Azerbaijan)

    1. Kimi Antonelli (Mercedes) — 302
    2. George Russell (Mercedes) — 236
    3. Lewis Hamilton (Ferrari) — 199
    4. Lando Norris (McLaren) — 186
    5. Charles Leclerc (Ferrari) — 179
    6. Max Verstappen (Red Bull) — 163
    7. Oscar Piastri (McLaren) — 120
    8. Isack Hadjar (Red Bull) — 86
    9. Liam Lawson (Racing Bulls) — 59
    10. Pierre Gasly (Alpine) — 41

    F1 fans may also enjoy...

    We test and review VPN services in the context of legal recreational uses. For example:1. Accessing a service from another country (subject to the terms and conditions of that service).2. Protecting your online security and strengthening your online privacy when abroad.We do not support or condone the illegal or malicious use of VPN services. Consuming pirated content that is paid-for is neither endorsed nor approved by Future Publishing.

    ]]>     https://www.techradar.com/how-to-watch/formula-one/bahrain-grand-prix-in-malaysia-2026-f1-free BLsvuz4tyDksPAR32GsG7o Sat, 03 Oct 2026 06:00:00 +0000 Sun, 04 Oct 2026 05:25:02 +0000 false false false

    Watch the 2026 Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia live streams to see whether Max Verstappen can claim his first victory of the season – and defend his Sepang victory from 2017. He took his first pole of 2026 after looking strong throughout Friday and Saturday, finishing 0.298s ahead of long-time rival Lewis Hamilton, who put on a stormer of a lap after the Ferraris looked off the pace in practice.

    This is the 15th time – and first since Abu Dhabi in 2021 – that Verstappen and Hamilton will share the front row. They also did so the last time F1 raced in Sepang, in 2017. The other Ferrari of Charles Leclerc will start fourth, but it will be interesting to see just how well the Scuderia handle the raw straight-line speed demands in race conditions.

    Isack Hadjar, who finished on the podium on his injury return in Baku, did well to qualify third but will serve a five-place grid penalty for the race. As a result, 20-year-old championship leader Kimi Antonelli will move to third, while his teammate and Azerbaijan winner George Russell will start a lowly seventh. Mercedes brought an updated package this weekend, but it hasn’t helped one bit – quite the opposite.

    Antonelli, though, will know that claiming victory from Max will be tough, but a podium is certainly on the cards, something he won’t mind given he’s 66 points ahead of Russell, 103 ahead of Hamilton, and 139 ahead of Verstappen.

    A large portion of the current grid hasn’t raced in Sepang, a purpose-built circuit that’s making its return due to the ongoing situation in the Middle East. With two long straights, a total of four straight zones, a high-speed middle sector, and the potential for rain, we could be in for an exciting weekend.

    Elsewhere, McLaren are having a tough time trying to bounce back after a disastrous Azerbaijan GP. There, Lando Norris got DNF’d by Franco Colapinto’s misjudgment and then Oscar Piastri, who looked set for a podium finish, locked up into turn one to finish outside the points. They’ll be starting fifth and sixth, respectively.

    Here’s how to watch the Bahrain Grand Prix 2026 online from anywhere and potentially for FREE.

    Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia 2026 Schedule

    Practice 1: Friday, October 2 | 9am BST / 4am ET - Verstappen fastest
    Practice 2: Friday, October 2 | 9am BST / 4am ET - Leclerc fastest
    Practice 3: Saturday, October 3 | 5:30am BST / 12:30am ET - Antonelli fastest
    Qualifying: Saturday, October 3 | 9am BST / 4am ET - Verstappen pole
    Bahrain Grand Prix: Sunday, October 4 | 8am BST / 3am ET

    Bahrain Grand Prix 2026 Starting Grid

    1) Max Verstappen - Red Bull

    2) Lewis Hamilton - Ferrari

    3) Kimi Antonelli - Mercedes

    4) Charles Leclerc - Ferrari

    5) Lando Norris - McLaren

    6) Oscar Piastri - McLaren

    7) George Russell - Mercedes

    8) Isack Hadjar - Red Bull (5-place grid penalty)

    9) Pierre Gasly - Alpine

    10) Gabriel Bortoleto - Audi

    11) Liam Lawson - Racing Bulls

    12) Fernando Alonso - Aston Martin

    13) Carlos Sainz - Williams

    14) Lance Stroll - Aston Martin

    15) Nico Hulkenberg - Audi

    16) Oliver Bearman - Haas

    17) Esteban Ocon - Haas

    18) Alexander Albon - Williams

    19) Valtteri Bottas - Cadillac

    20) Sergio Perez - Cadillac

    21) Franco Colapinto - Alpine (15-place grid penalty)

    22) Arvid Lindblad - Racing Bulls (back-of-the-grid penalty)

    How to watch the Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia 2026 for FREE

    The 2026 Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia isn't available for free in every country. However, in these select destinations lucky F1 fans can catch the practice sessions, qualifying, and the entire race/highlights for FREE.

    • Austria – Servus (free live broadcast)
    • Belgium – RTBF Auvio (free live broadcast)
    • Luxembourg – RTL Play (free live broadcast)
    • Australia – 10Play (free highlights)
    • Canada – CTV (free highlights)
    • UK – Channel 4 (free highlights)
    • US – Apple TV (free trial) (free live broadcast of every Practice session)

    Traveling abroad during the 2026 Bahrain Grand Prix? You can use a VPN to watch all the action free of charge as if you were right at home.

    How to watch the Bahrain Grand Prix 2026 from anywhere

    🌎 ABROAD? The Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia 2026 is broadcast in many countries around the world but if you're traveling outside your country you should consider using one of the best VPNs to unlock your domestic streaming service provided it does not infringe any terms and conditions.

    🟩 NordVPN – 75% off the world's best VPN today

    Not having a VPN is like leaving your front door wide open in a busy city – anyone can walk right in and take a peek.

    TechRadar regularly reviews all the biggest and best VPN providers and NordVPN is our #1 choice.

    ✅ 3 Extra Months FREE
    ✅ Unlocks F1 live streams
    ✅ 30-day month back guarantee

    Get NordVPN and stream the Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia 2026 from wherever you are.View Deal

    How to watch the Bahrain Grand Prix 2026 in the US

    US flag

    Apple TV will show the Bahrain Grand Prix in the US.

    F1 TV will be bundled with your Apple TV subscription at no additional cost. Subscriptions start at $14.99 per month or $119 per year. Even better, new Apple TV subscribers get a handy 7-day FREE trial.

    If you want to catch the F1 Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia but are traveling outside North America, make sure to use NordVPN to access your usual services securely.View Deal

    How to watch the Bahrain GP 2026 in the UK

    uk flag banner

    In the UK, Sky Sports F1 is carrying live coverage of the entire F1 season, including the Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia.

    Sky Sports packages start from £22 per month. Or you can use a more flexible streaming option, Now, (formerly Now TV). NOW Sports passes start at £14.99 with monthly options from £27.99.View Deal

    How to watch the Bahrain Grand Prix 2026 in Australia

    Australian flag

    Aussie F1 fans can use Fox Sports via Kayo (free trial) for full HD coverage and multi-screen viewing options to stream the 2026 F1 Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia.

    Kayo offers two plans: Standard and Premium. The Standard plan starts at AU$29.99 per month (just AU$9.99 for your first month).

    Australia's 10Play streaming platform will be showing the full highlights of all the weekend events completely free.

    Traveling outside Oz? Australian F1 fans can still watch the F1 2026 season on their usual stream by using NordVPN.View Deal

    How to watch the Bahrain Grand Prix 2026 in Canada

    Canada

    (Image credit: Other)

    Canadian F1 fans can watch the F1 2026 season, including the Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia, on TSN.

    If you’ve ditched the cord, you’ll want to check out TSN Plus, which costs $24.99/month for full access. The TSN app will allow you to live stream F1 practice sessions, qualifying and the race from your phone, streaming box or supported device.

    Use NordVPN if you're outside the country for the race.View Deal

    Drivers' Championship Standings (after Azerbaijan)

    1. Kimi Antonelli (Mercedes) — 302
    2. George Russell (Mercedes) — 236
    3. Lewis Hamilton (Ferrari) — 199
    4. Lando Norris (McLaren) — 186
    5. Charles Leclerc (Ferrari) — 179
    6. Max Verstappen (Red Bull) — 163
    7. Oscar Piastri (McLaren) — 120
    8. Isack Hadjar (Red Bull) — 86
    9. Liam Lawson (Racing Bulls) — 59
    10. Pierre Gasly (Alpine) — 41

    F1 fans may also enjoy...

    We test and review VPN services in the context of legal recreational uses. For example:1. Accessing a service from another country (subject to the terms and conditions of that service).2. Protecting your online security and strengthening your online privacy when abroad.We do not support or condone the illegal or malicious use of VPN services. Consuming pirated content that is paid-for is neither endorsed nor approved by Future Publishing.

    ]]>     <![CDATA[ Micro Center cracks down on scalpers looking to export the RTX 5090 GPU ]]>
  • Those buying an RTX 5090 at Micro Center now have to fill out a declaration form
  • This includes having a government-issued photo ID scanned by the retailer
  • Some approve of the policy as it's an anti-scalping measure, but others view it as an annoyance or a pointless move

    • If you're buying an Nvidia RTX 5090, or a PC with the graphics card inside, over in the US, you may have to fill out an official form to declare that you don't intend to export and resell the GPU – or at least you will at Micro Center.

    PC Gamer spotted the 'advanced computing product purchaser declaration' which a Redditor was forced to complete and sign – including a scan of their driving license for ID – when buying a PowerSpec AI90 workstation PC with an RTX 5090.

    The Micro Center store was in Tustin, California, but someone else posting on the Reddit thread claims that the same form has been introduced at the Columbus, Ohio store.

    Apparently this is a new policy that only started this week at Micro Center (but seemingly other retailers already follow this practice in the US, including Central Computers).

    In case you hadn't guessed, this move is about trying to prevent scalpers from buying up the RTX 5090, or PCs containing it – which can be around the same price as the standalone GPU these days, and are sometimes the only way of getting this graphics card at all – in order to sell it on to China and turn a profit.

    Analysis: a pain in the neck, or a valid anti-scalper tactic?

    Micro Center RTX 5090 purchase declaration form

    (Image credit: Micro Center / Krothic on Reddit)

    As some of the commenters on Reddit are quick to point out, this form isn't legally binding, and there are question marks over how any of this might be enforced. Somebody breaking the terms of the agreement is likely to just shrug their shoulders about the consequences, perhaps.

    However, as PC Gamer notes, the use of the ID check is certainly a deterrent of sorts for GPU exporters. And what this is doing is preventing people who are making a short trip to the US buying an RTX 5090 and selling it on when they get back home for a hefty mark-up. Those people won't be able to provide a US address and government photo ID that can be verified as belonging to them, of course.

    The fact remains that it's a bit of a pain for Micro Center's customers to have to go through this form filling and ID check, although that said, some of the folks on the above Reddit thread don't have a problem with the process given that it's an anti-scalping measure. Others are concerned about having to give a retail store personal information for an unnecessary reason as they see it, or they're just annoyed and think it's a waste of time. As one Redditor put it: "This is ridiculous."

    Going by the Reddit thread, another measure Micro Center enforces is that there's only one purchase of an RTX 5090 GPU per customer full-stop, forever. Once you've bought one, you can never buy another, we're told.

    ]]>     https://www.techradar.com/computing/gpu/micro-center-reportedly-now-makes-you-fill-out-a-form-and-have-a-photo-id-to-buy-an-nvidia-rtx-5090-gpu-and-while-some-people-hate-the-idea-others-are-in-favor GJzNp9z4hfCxBmAHeqtXvV Sat, 03 Oct 2026 03:00:00 +0000 false false false
    • Those buying an RTX 5090 at Micro Center now have to fill out a declaration form
    • This includes having a government-issued photo ID scanned by the retailer
    • Some approve of the policy as it's an anti-scalping measure, but others view it as an annoyance or a pointless move

    If you're buying an Nvidia RTX 5090, or a PC with the graphics card inside, over in the US, you may have to fill out an official form to declare that you don't intend to export and resell the GPU – or at least you will at Micro Center.

    PC Gamer spotted the 'advanced computing product purchaser declaration' which a Redditor was forced to complete and sign – including a scan of their driving license for ID – when buying a PowerSpec AI90 workstation PC with an RTX 5090.

    The Micro Center store was in Tustin, California, but someone else posting on the Reddit thread claims that the same form has been introduced at the Columbus, Ohio store.

    Apparently this is a new policy that only started this week at Micro Center (but seemingly other retailers already follow this practice in the US, including Central Computers).

    In case you hadn't guessed, this move is about trying to prevent scalpers from buying up the RTX 5090, or PCs containing it – which can be around the same price as the standalone GPU these days, and are sometimes the only way of getting this graphics card at all – in order to sell it on to China and turn a profit.

    Analysis: a pain in the neck, or a valid anti-scalper tactic?

    Micro Center RTX 5090 purchase declaration form

    (Image credit: Micro Center / Krothic on Reddit)

    As some of the commenters on Reddit are quick to point out, this form isn't legally binding, and there are question marks over how any of this might be enforced. Somebody breaking the terms of the agreement is likely to just shrug their shoulders about the consequences, perhaps.

    However, as PC Gamer notes, the use of the ID check is certainly a deterrent of sorts for GPU exporters. And what this is doing is preventing people who are making a short trip to the US buying an RTX 5090 and selling it on when they get back home for a hefty mark-up. Those people won't be able to provide a US address and government photo ID that can be verified as belonging to them, of course.

    The fact remains that it's a bit of a pain for Micro Center's customers to have to go through this form filling and ID check, although that said, some of the folks on the above Reddit thread don't have a problem with the process given that it's an anti-scalping measure. Others are concerned about having to give a retail store personal information for an unnecessary reason as they see it, or they're just annoyed and think it's a waste of time. As one Redditor put it: "This is ridiculous."

    Going by the Reddit thread, another measure Micro Center enforces is that there's only one purchase of an RTX 5090 GPU per customer full-stop, forever. Once you've bought one, you can never buy another, we're told.

    ]]>     <![CDATA[ After years of covering Amazon AU sales, these are the 12 brands and products we refuse to pay full price for ]]> Amazon landed in Australia almost a decade ago and the e-commerce giant has shaken up the local retail scene, with its price-cutting making waves in a country that already had quite a strong online shopping culture.

    Fast forward to 2026 and Amazon is now the biggest online retailer in Australia, helped by its ultra-fast shipping (including same-day delivery), wide product selection and, of course, very competitive prices.

    Having shopped at Amazon for years, we’ve often found it to have the best prices for specific brands and product categories, especially during major sale events like Prime Day, EOFY, Black Friday and the currently underway Prime Big Deal Days sale.

    Our close monitoring of deals means there are certain brands and products we’ve learned you should never buy at full price, due to how often they show up discounted during major sale events on Amazon.

    To help you do the same, we’ve compiled a list of our top 12 reliably discounted products and brands (as well as some of the best current bargains from each) below.

    Top brands you shouldn’t pay full price for

    Ninja

    Ninja Slushi and Shark PowerDetect Cordless

    (Image credit: Future / Ninja)

    Despite running its own deals and discounts on its website, it's undeniable that the best prices on Ninja air fryers, coffee machines and other appliances are usually found on Amazon, particularly during major sale events.

    Shark

    Much like its sibling brand Ninja, Shark’s range of vacuums, hair stylers, air purifiers and more are also available on Amazon, frequently with generous discounts, too.

    Dyson

    Four Dyson cordless stick vacuums leaning against a sofa

    (Image credit: Future)

    Sure, Dyson may be known as a luxury brand, but you can often buy some of its older models with generous discounts on Amazon, especially its stick vacuums. In fact, some of our favourite stick vacuums include older Dysons and re-releases that often get discounts, including some of these current deals below:

    Sennheiser

    The Sennheiser Momentum 5 leaning against another concrete block.

    (Image credit: Future)

    German audio brand Sennheiser has been in the biz for 80+ years and has made a name for itself for making some of the best headphones, speakers, mics and more. Its offerings on Amazon range from wireless headphones like the new Momentum 5 over-ears and CX Plus earbuds to audiophile-quality gear that can fit right at home in a studio, like the wired HD range of over-ears and in-ear monitors.

    Breville

    Breville Oracle Dual Boiler coffee maker on kitchen counter with drinks

    (Image credit: Breville)

    Aussie brand Breville has been making kitchen appliances since the 1960s and still remains one of the top in its field — not just within Australia, but globally — and produces some of our favourite coffee machines, the best blenders and excellent air fryers, to name a few.

    Breville has a reputation for being a premium brand, and the retail prices certainly reflect that. Thankfully, many of its appliances are also sold through Amazon and are often discounted during major sale events.

    Amazon devices and brands

    Three different Amazon Echo Shows

    (Image credit: Amazon)

    Of course, how can we forget Amazon’s own product range, which is frequently among the first to get steep discounts ahead of sale events like Prime Day. Whether it’s the company’s Kindle ereaders, Echo speakers and smart home hubs, video doorbells and cameras from Ring and Blink, Fire TV sticks or Amazon Basics, there really is no need to pay full price for any of these products if you’re a little patient.

    Top product types you shouldn’t pay full price for

    Electric toothbrushes

    Oral-B iO 6 smart toothbrushes

    (Image credit: Oral-B)

    Electric toothbrushes come in a variety of styles. The main ones to look out for are oscillating/rotating and sonic. Oral-B and Philips are arguably the two biggest names in electric toothbrushes, and given the fact there are so many models to choose from, it means there are usually multiple discounts to choose from during Amazon sales, where it’s common to see savings of over 60%. What’s more, these sales are also a prime opportunity to stock up on replacement brush heads for less. We’ve picked three of our faves below; for more, you can browse the current dental care bestsellers.

    Coffee machines

    Philips Baristina on a kitchen counter.

    (Image credit: Philips / Edited with Gemini AI)

    If your kitchen feels like it’s crying out for a coffee machine, Amazon sales are a safe bet if you want to nab one at a discount. Many of the biggest brands are stocked by the online retail giant, including Philips, Ninja, KitchenAid, Breville and De’Longhi. And, based on experience, you’re practically guaranteed discounts of up to 50%. You can view the latest coffee machine bestsellers to see what everyone’s buying — we think these three are some of the standouts:

    Robot vacuums

    Ecovacs Deebot T30 Pro Omni in its self-cleaning dock by a wall

    (Image credit: Ecovacs Robotics)

    Robovacs are undoubtedly a huge time saver at home, being able to vacuum and, in some cases, mop your floors on the daily, without you having to lift a finger. However, many of the top-performing models can be incredibly expensive, with RRPs that sometimes climb as high as AU$3,000. Thankfully, Amazon slashes prices during its major sales events by as much as 75%, so you’ll never need to pay full price if you’re prepared to wait. View the latest robot vacuum bestsellers here for some great examples. These are some of our team’s top picks:

    Air fryers

    Ninja Crispi Pro air fryer with food on kitchen counter

    (Image credit: SharkNinja)

    Air fryers, fortunately, aren’t especially expensive even at full price. But when it’s possible to save over 50% on many top-rated models during Amazon Prime sale events, it absolutely pays to hold off. Judging by the latest air fryer bestsellers, Ninja is this October sale’s hot ticket (pun intended), taking out the top five spots at the time of writing. Our editorial recommendations? These three:

    Headphones

    Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones on a gray surface with a pink background

    (Image credit: Future)

    Every time an Amazon sale rolls around, one of the most well-represented categories for great discounts is headphones. From flagship over ears from the likes of Bose and Sony, to stellar earbuds like Apple’s AirPods and even the burgeoning open-style and wired earbuds, there are savings aplenty. And if the latest headphone bestsellers tell us anything, it’s that truly affordable pairs rule the roost. These are our top picks from the current sale:

    Bluetooth speakers

    Three bluetooth speakers

    (Image credit: Future)

    Bluetooth speakers are another category that proves popular during Amazon sales events, as it’s usually possible to save up to 50% on big-name brands such as Bose and JBL. In this age of music streaming, we basically consider a Bluetooth speaker to be a must-own item, and waiting for an Amazon sale to roll around can often net you a more capable model for significantly less — just view the latest Bluetooth speaker bestsellers for proof.

    ]]>     https://www.techradar.com/seasonal-sales/after-years-of-covering-amazon-au-sales-these-are-the-12-brands-and-products-we-refuse-to-pay-full-price-for GQTg7Wf6jxD7xzQdZCXGhR Sat, 03 Oct 2026 02:54:31 +0000 Sat, 03 Oct 2026 04:29:24 +0000 false false false

    Amazon landed in Australia almost a decade ago and the e-commerce giant has shaken up the local retail scene, with its price-cutting making waves in a country that already had quite a strong online shopping culture.

    Fast forward to 2026 and Amazon is now the biggest online retailer in Australia, helped by its ultra-fast shipping (including same-day delivery), wide product selection and, of course, very competitive prices.

    Having shopped at Amazon for years, we’ve often found it to have the best prices for specific brands and product categories, especially during major sale events like Prime Day, EOFY, Black Friday and the currently underway Prime Big Deal Days sale.

    Our close monitoring of deals means there are certain brands and products we’ve learned you should never buy at full price, due to how often they show up discounted during major sale events on Amazon.

    To help you do the same, we’ve compiled a list of our top 12 reliably discounted products and brands (as well as some of the best current bargains from each) below.

    Top brands you shouldn’t pay full price for

    Ninja

    Ninja Slushi and Shark PowerDetect Cordless

    (Image credit: Future / Ninja)

    Despite running its own deals and discounts on its website, it's undeniable that the best prices on Ninja air fryers, coffee machines and other appliances are usually found on Amazon, particularly during major sale events.

    Shark

    Much like its sibling brand Ninja, Shark’s range of vacuums, hair stylers, air purifiers and more are also available on Amazon, frequently with generous discounts, too.

    Dyson

    Four Dyson cordless stick vacuums leaning against a sofa

    (Image credit: Future)

    Sure, Dyson may be known as a luxury brand, but you can often buy some of its older models with generous discounts on Amazon, especially its stick vacuums. In fact, some of our favourite stick vacuums include older Dysons and re-releases that often get discounts, including some of these current deals below:

    Sennheiser

    The Sennheiser Momentum 5 leaning against another concrete block.

    (Image credit: Future)

    German audio brand Sennheiser has been in the biz for 80+ years and has made a name for itself for making some of the best headphones, speakers, mics and more. Its offerings on Amazon range from wireless headphones like the new Momentum 5 over-ears and CX Plus earbuds to audiophile-quality gear that can fit right at home in a studio, like the wired HD range of over-ears and in-ear monitors.

    Breville

    Breville Oracle Dual Boiler coffee maker on kitchen counter with drinks

    (Image credit: Breville)

    Aussie brand Breville has been making kitchen appliances since the 1960s and still remains one of the top in its field — not just within Australia, but globally — and produces some of our favourite coffee machines, the best blenders and excellent air fryers, to name a few.

    Breville has a reputation for being a premium brand, and the retail prices certainly reflect that. Thankfully, many of its appliances are also sold through Amazon and are often discounted during major sale events.

    Amazon devices and brands

    Three different Amazon Echo Shows

    (Image credit: Amazon)

    Of course, how can we forget Amazon’s own product range, which is frequently among the first to get steep discounts ahead of sale events like Prime Day. Whether it’s the company’s Kindle ereaders, Echo speakers and smart home hubs, video doorbells and cameras from Ring and Blink, Fire TV sticks or Amazon Basics, there really is no need to pay full price for any of these products if you’re a little patient.

    Top product types you shouldn’t pay full price for

    Electric toothbrushes

    Oral-B iO 6 smart toothbrushes

    (Image credit: Oral-B)

    Electric toothbrushes come in a variety of styles. The main ones to look out for are oscillating/rotating and sonic. Oral-B and Philips are arguably the two biggest names in electric toothbrushes, and given the fact there are so many models to choose from, it means there are usually multiple discounts to choose from during Amazon sales, where it’s common to see savings of over 60%. What’s more, these sales are also a prime opportunity to stock up on replacement brush heads for less. We’ve picked three of our faves below; for more, you can browse the current dental care bestsellers.

    Coffee machines

    Philips Baristina on a kitchen counter.

    (Image credit: Philips / Edited with Gemini AI)

    If your kitchen feels like it’s crying out for a coffee machine, Amazon sales are a safe bet if you want to nab one at a discount. Many of the biggest brands are stocked by the online retail giant, including Philips, Ninja, KitchenAid, Breville and De’Longhi. And, based on experience, you’re practically guaranteed discounts of up to 50%. You can view the latest coffee machine bestsellers to see what everyone’s buying — we think these three are some of the standouts:

    Robot vacuums

    Ecovacs Deebot T30 Pro Omni in its self-cleaning dock by a wall

    (Image credit: Ecovacs Robotics)

    Robovacs are undoubtedly a huge time saver at home, being able to vacuum and, in some cases, mop your floors on the daily, without you having to lift a finger. However, many of the top-performing models can be incredibly expensive, with RRPs that sometimes climb as high as AU$3,000. Thankfully, Amazon slashes prices during its major sales events by as much as 75%, so you’ll never need to pay full price if you’re prepared to wait. View the latest robot vacuum bestsellers here for some great examples. These are some of our team’s top picks:

    Air fryers

    Ninja Crispi Pro air fryer with food on kitchen counter

    (Image credit: SharkNinja)

    Air fryers, fortunately, aren’t especially expensive even at full price. But when it’s possible to save over 50% on many top-rated models during Amazon Prime sale events, it absolutely pays to hold off. Judging by the latest air fryer bestsellers, Ninja is this October sale’s hot ticket (pun intended), taking out the top five spots at the time of writing. Our editorial recommendations? These three:

    Headphones

    Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones on a gray surface with a pink background

    (Image credit: Future)

    Every time an Amazon sale rolls around, one of the most well-represented categories for great discounts is headphones. From flagship over ears from the likes of Bose and Sony, to stellar earbuds like Apple’s AirPods and even the burgeoning open-style and wired earbuds, there are savings aplenty. And if the latest headphone bestsellers tell us anything, it’s that truly affordable pairs rule the roost. These are our top picks from the current sale:

    Bluetooth speakers

    Three bluetooth speakers

    (Image credit: Future)

    Bluetooth speakers are another category that proves popular during Amazon sales events, as it’s usually possible to save up to 50% on big-name brands such as Bose and JBL. In this age of music streaming, we basically consider a Bluetooth speaker to be a must-own item, and waiting for an Amazon sale to roll around can often net you a more capable model for significantly less — just view the latest Bluetooth speaker bestsellers for proof.

    ]]>     <![CDATA[ The component cost crisis is hitting TVs hard now, as chip prices rise higher than panel costs ]]>
  • For small TVs, the processors are now as as expensive as the panels for the first time
  • AI-driven demand is creating a global supply shortage of memory and processors, and it's expected to last through 2027
  • (Flash storage is 9x more expensive while Wi-Fi modules have become as pricey as 4K panels)

    • AI continues to be the Very Hungry Caterpillar of tech, gobbling up so many semiconductors that supplies of crucial components are limited and prices are soaring. And it looks like the latest tech sector to be chomped is the TV market.

    According to market research firm Omdia, as reported by DigiTimes, the cost of semiconductors has risen so much this year that for the very first time, the most expensive part of the TV may no longer be the panel, but the chips powering it.

    The good news is that, for now at least, the issue is primarily at the lower end of the market: think 32-inch LCDs and Full HD models in the low 40 inches, rather than the best OLED TVs. But with component costs continuing to soar, the future looks a bit worrying to say the least.

    Why component costs are pushing profits way down

    We're not talking about a couple of cents here or there; according to Omdia's figures, the costs are rocketing. In the second quarter of 2025, you could expect the processing board's share of the costs to be just over 10%. In the third quarter of 2026, it's 45% or even 50% of the total cost.

    Basic DRAM prices hit $25 in August this year, 4.4 times the price of a year ago, and NAND flash memory is up to $30.50, which is nearly nine times last year's price.

    The good news keeps on coming. Wi-Fi modules are apparently up from $33.90 in 2025 to $118.20 now. That makes the Wi-Fi chip more expensive than the lowest 55-inch 4K panel ($116) and close to the average 4K panel price of $123.

    The component crisis is expected to continue through 2027 and beyond, squeezing the profitability of manufacturers in a market that's already famed for its relatively low profit margins.

    It's unlikely that manufacturers could or will absorb ever-increasing prices forever, and that means we're likely to see what we've already seen in the smartphone market: higher prices and lower specifications.

    Thinking of buying a new TV?

    Try our TV size and model finder! You tell it how far you sit from your TV, we'll tell you what size to buy based on viewing angle advice from image quality experts, and we'll recommend our three top TVs at that size for different prices.

    ]]>     https://www.techradar.com/televisions/tvs-are-finally-being-hit-hard-by-the-ai-fueled-memory-crisis-for-the-first-time-the-cost-of-the-processors-is-higher-than-the-display-panels-in-some-models Xd32xSCgHkDN7cpoAWuoJM Sat, 03 Oct 2026 01:00:00 +0000 false false false
    • For small TVs, the processors are now as as expensive as the panels for the first time
    • AI-driven demand is creating a global supply shortage of memory and processors, and it's expected to last through 2027
    • (Flash storage is 9x more expensive while Wi-Fi modules have become as pricey as 4K panels)

    AI continues to be the Very Hungry Caterpillar of tech, gobbling up so many semiconductors that supplies of crucial components are limited and prices are soaring. And it looks like the latest tech sector to be chomped is the TV market.

    According to market research firm Omdia, as reported by DigiTimes, the cost of semiconductors has risen so much this year that for the very first time, the most expensive part of the TV may no longer be the panel, but the chips powering it.

    The good news is that, for now at least, the issue is primarily at the lower end of the market: think 32-inch LCDs and Full HD models in the low 40 inches, rather than the best OLED TVs. But with component costs continuing to soar, the future looks a bit worrying to say the least.

    Why component costs are pushing profits way down

    We're not talking about a couple of cents here or there; according to Omdia's figures, the costs are rocketing. In the second quarter of 2025, you could expect the processing board's share of the costs to be just over 10%. In the third quarter of 2026, it's 45% or even 50% of the total cost.

    Basic DRAM prices hit $25 in August this year, 4.4 times the price of a year ago, and NAND flash memory is up to $30.50, which is nearly nine times last year's price.

    The good news keeps on coming. Wi-Fi modules are apparently up from $33.90 in 2025 to $118.20 now. That makes the Wi-Fi chip more expensive than the lowest 55-inch 4K panel ($116) and close to the average 4K panel price of $123.

    The component crisis is expected to continue through 2027 and beyond, squeezing the profitability of manufacturers in a market that's already famed for its relatively low profit margins.

    It's unlikely that manufacturers could or will absorb ever-increasing prices forever, and that means we're likely to see what we've already seen in the smartphone market: higher prices and lower specifications.

    Thinking of buying a new TV?

    Try our TV size and model finder! You tell it how far you sit from your TV, we'll tell you what size to buy based on viewing angle advice from image quality experts, and we'll recommend our three top TVs at that size for different prices.

    ]]>     <![CDATA[ How to watch India vs Pakistan for FREE: live stream Asian Games Cricket Final online from anywhere ]]>
  • Watch India vs Pakistan free on PTV Sports via Tamasha
  • Unlock your stream with NordVPN (save up to 75%)
  • Asian Games Cricket Final 2026: Saturday, October 3 at 5:30am BST / 12:30am ET / 10am IST

    • Watch the Asian Games 2026 Cricket Final live streams, as India take on Pakistan in a mouthwatering gold medal match. This is Pakistan's first men's Asian Games cricket final, while India are the defending champions after claiming gold at Hangzhou 2023.

    After the final day of the group stages and all four quarter-finals were washed out by torrential rain—with the higher-seeded teams advancing—we finally got a nearly full day of action on semi-final day. The weather forecast for the final is also positive, meaning we can expect a full game.

    India are undoubtedly the favourites to win, largely because they have sent a full-strength squad featuring the likes of captain Shreyas Iyer, Jasprit Bumrah, Ishan Kishan, T20 World Cup 2026 Player of the Tournament Sanju Samson, and 16-year-old wonderkid Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, who impressed with 38 off 21 balls in the semi-final against Sri Lanka.

    Kishan then took over, smashing an unbeaten 80 from 46 balls to help India post 169/7 on a tricky, spin-friendly surface. Bumrah and Axar Patel then led the bowling effort, with Bumrah striking twice in his opening over before Axar and Abhishek Sharma picked up two wickets apiece to bowl Sri Lanka out for just 45.

    Pakistan, meanwhile, will be hoping to cause an upset. India have won 14 of their 17 T20I meetings, including each of the last six, with Pakistan's last victory coming in 2022. However, Pakistan have already shown that they can navigate tricky conditions in this tournament. Chasing a decent 112 against Bangladesh in a semi-final reduced to 13 overs, they slipped to 53/4 before Hasan Nawaz's unbeaten 30 from 15 balls and Abdul Samad's unbeaten 27 from 22 balls took them to victory with nine balls to spare.

    Pakistan also have plenty of international pedigree, including Sahibzada Farhan, Saim Ayub, Usman Khan and Abdul Samad, alongside a strong spin attack featuring Sufyan Moqim—who picked up 3/26 in the semi-final—Abrar Ahmed and Ayub.

    Here's how to watch the Asian Games 2026 cricket final from anywhere in the world, including free options.

    Can you watch the Cricket Final at Asian Games 2026 for free?

    Yes. The Asian Games Cricket Final 2026 is being shown on free-to-air PTV Sports via Tamasha.

    MeWatch in Singapore, KBS, MBC and SBS in South Korea, VTV in Vietnam, CCTV5 in China, and RTM in Malaysia are all showing the final as well.

    Finding your free stream blocked? You can use a VPN to watch for free from anywhere in the world.

    Use a VPN to watch Asian Games Cricket Final 2026 live streams

    A VPN is handy piece of software that can make your device appear as if it's back in your home country, so you can unlock your usual service. The best VPN right now? We recommend NordVPN – it does everything and comes with up to 75% off.

    🟩 NordVPN – get the world's best VPN

    Not having a VPN is like leaving your front door wide open in a busy city – anyone can walk right in and take a peek.

    TechRadar regularly reviews all the biggest and best VPN providers and NordVPN is our #1 choice.

    ✅ Up to 75% off today
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    ✅ Unlocks all necessary streaming services

    Get NordVPN and stream the 2026 Asian Games Cricket Final from anywhere.View Deal

    How to watch Asian Games Cricket Final 2026 live streams in the US

    USA flag

    (Image credit: Other)

    In the US, dedicated cricket streaming service Willow TV will broadcast India vs Pakistan in the Asian Games cricket final.

    If you don't have Willow TV as part of your cable package, you can watch Willow coverage through your choice of Sling TV's Desi Binge Plus or Dakshin Flex plans – starting from $10 per month.

    Outside the US? Use NordVPN to watch coverage from anywhere in the world.

    How to watch Asian Games Cricket Final 2026 live streams in Canada

    Canada

    (Image credit: Other)

    It's the same in Canada, where Willow TV is also available and will be showing the Asian Games Cricket Final 2026 between India and Pakistan.

    Outside Canada? Use NordVPN to watch Willow TV's Asian Games Cricket 2026 coverage from anywhere.

    How to watch Asian Games Cricket Final 2026 live streams in India

    India flag

    (Image credit: Wikimedia Commons)

    In India, the 2026 Asian Games cricket final, along with every other sport, are being shown on the Sony Sports Network, with live streaming available via Sony LIV.

    Sony LIV subscription plans in India start at ₹599/year for the mobile-only plan, rising to ₹999/year.

    Outside India? Use a VPN while you're traveling away from home to unlock your stream.

    Can I watch the cricket final at Asian Games 2026 in the UK or Australia?

    The 2026 Asian Games Cricket haven't picked up a broadcasting partner in the UK or Australia.

    If you're from Singapore, South Korea, Vietnam, China or Malaysia but you're abroad for work or a vacation, however, a VPN will help you tune in to Aichi-Nagoya's cricket action. NordVPN is the one we recommend above all others.

    Asian Games Cricket Final 2026 Q&A

    Cricket at Asian Games 2026 final squads

    Pakistan: Sahibzada Farhan(c), Maaz Sadaqat, Usman Khan(w), Saim Ayub, Hasan Nawaz, Abdul Samad, Arafat Minhas, Ahmed Daniyal, Mohammad Wasim Jr, Abrar Ahmed, Sufyan Moqim, Saad Masood, Ali Raza, Akif Javed, Haider Ali

    India: Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, Abhishek Sharma, Sanju Samson(w), Shreyas Iyer(c), Ishan Kishan, Axar Patel, Tilak Varma, Shivam Dube, Washington Sundar, Ravi Bishnoi, Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh, Yash Thakur, Vipraj Nigam

    Can I watch Asian Games Cricket Final 2026 on my mobile?

    Of course, most broadcasters have streaming services that you can access through mobile apps or via your phone's browser to live stream Asian Games 2026.

    You can also stay up-to-date with all of the key Asian Games moments on the official social media channels on Instagram (@AsianGames_2026), Facebook (@AsianGames2026AichiNagoya) and YouTube (@AsianGames_).

    We test and review VPN services in the context of legal recreational uses. For example:1. Accessing a service from another country (subject to the terms and conditions of that service).2. Protecting your online security and strengthening your online privacy when abroad.We do not support or condone the illegal or malicious use of VPN services. Consuming pirated content that is paid-for is neither endorsed nor approved by Future Publishing.

    ]]>     https://www.techradar.com/how-to-watch/sport/india-vs-pakistan-asian-games-cricket-final-2026-free C6ZC8JXuZwTY3rKQtAjxgD Sat, 03 Oct 2026 01:00:00 +0000 false false false

    Watch the Asian Games 2026 Cricket Final live streams, as India take on Pakistan in a mouthwatering gold medal match. This is Pakistan's first men's Asian Games cricket final, while India are the defending champions after claiming gold at Hangzhou 2023.

    After the final day of the group stages and all four quarter-finals were washed out by torrential rain—with the higher-seeded teams advancing—we finally got a nearly full day of action on semi-final day. The weather forecast for the final is also positive, meaning we can expect a full game.

    India are undoubtedly the favourites to win, largely because they have sent a full-strength squad featuring the likes of captain Shreyas Iyer, Jasprit Bumrah, Ishan Kishan, T20 World Cup 2026 Player of the Tournament Sanju Samson, and 16-year-old wonderkid Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, who impressed with 38 off 21 balls in the semi-final against Sri Lanka.

    Kishan then took over, smashing an unbeaten 80 from 46 balls to help India post 169/7 on a tricky, spin-friendly surface. Bumrah and Axar Patel then led the bowling effort, with Bumrah striking twice in his opening over before Axar and Abhishek Sharma picked up two wickets apiece to bowl Sri Lanka out for just 45.

    Pakistan, meanwhile, will be hoping to cause an upset. India have won 14 of their 17 T20I meetings, including each of the last six, with Pakistan's last victory coming in 2022. However, Pakistan have already shown that they can navigate tricky conditions in this tournament. Chasing a decent 112 against Bangladesh in a semi-final reduced to 13 overs, they slipped to 53/4 before Hasan Nawaz's unbeaten 30 from 15 balls and Abdul Samad's unbeaten 27 from 22 balls took them to victory with nine balls to spare.

    Pakistan also have plenty of international pedigree, including Sahibzada Farhan, Saim Ayub, Usman Khan and Abdul Samad, alongside a strong spin attack featuring Sufyan Moqim—who picked up 3/26 in the semi-final—Abrar Ahmed and Ayub.

    Here's how to watch the Asian Games 2026 cricket final from anywhere in the world, including free options.

    Can you watch the Cricket Final at Asian Games 2026 for free?

    Yes. The Asian Games Cricket Final 2026 is being shown on free-to-air PTV Sports via Tamasha.

    MeWatch in Singapore, KBS, MBC and SBS in South Korea, VTV in Vietnam, CCTV5 in China, and RTM in Malaysia are all showing the final as well.

    Finding your free stream blocked? You can use a VPN to watch for free from anywhere in the world.

    Use a VPN to watch Asian Games Cricket Final 2026 live streams

    A VPN is handy piece of software that can make your device appear as if it's back in your home country, so you can unlock your usual service. The best VPN right now? We recommend NordVPN – it does everything and comes with up to 75% off.

    🟩 NordVPN – get the world's best VPN

    Not having a VPN is like leaving your front door wide open in a busy city – anyone can walk right in and take a peek.

    TechRadar regularly reviews all the biggest and best VPN providers and NordVPN is our #1 choice.

    ✅ Up to 75% off today
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    Get NordVPN and stream the 2026 Asian Games Cricket Final from anywhere.View Deal

    How to watch Asian Games Cricket Final 2026 live streams in the US

    USA flag

    (Image credit: Other)

    In the US, dedicated cricket streaming service Willow TV will broadcast India vs Pakistan in the Asian Games cricket final.

    If you don't have Willow TV as part of your cable package, you can watch Willow coverage through your choice of Sling TV's Desi Binge Plus or Dakshin Flex plans – starting from $10 per month.

    Outside the US? Use NordVPN to watch coverage from anywhere in the world.

    How to watch Asian Games Cricket Final 2026 live streams in Canada

    Canada

    (Image credit: Other)

    It's the same in Canada, where Willow TV is also available and will be showing the Asian Games Cricket Final 2026 between India and Pakistan.

    Outside Canada? Use NordVPN to watch Willow TV's Asian Games Cricket 2026 coverage from anywhere.

    How to watch Asian Games Cricket Final 2026 live streams in India

    India flag

    (Image credit: Wikimedia Commons)

    In India, the 2026 Asian Games cricket final, along with every other sport, are being shown on the Sony Sports Network, with live streaming available via Sony LIV.

    Sony LIV subscription plans in India start at ₹599/year for the mobile-only plan, rising to ₹999/year.

    Outside India? Use a VPN while you're traveling away from home to unlock your stream.

    Can I watch the cricket final at Asian Games 2026 in the UK or Australia?

    The 2026 Asian Games Cricket haven't picked up a broadcasting partner in the UK or Australia.

    If you're from Singapore, South Korea, Vietnam, China or Malaysia but you're abroad for work or a vacation, however, a VPN will help you tune in to Aichi-Nagoya's cricket action. NordVPN is the one we recommend above all others.

    Asian Games Cricket Final 2026 Q&A

    Cricket at Asian Games 2026 final squads

    Pakistan: Sahibzada Farhan(c), Maaz Sadaqat, Usman Khan(w), Saim Ayub, Hasan Nawaz, Abdul Samad, Arafat Minhas, Ahmed Daniyal, Mohammad Wasim Jr, Abrar Ahmed, Sufyan Moqim, Saad Masood, Ali Raza, Akif Javed, Haider Ali

    India: Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, Abhishek Sharma, Sanju Samson(w), Shreyas Iyer(c), Ishan Kishan, Axar Patel, Tilak Varma, Shivam Dube, Washington Sundar, Ravi Bishnoi, Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh, Yash Thakur, Vipraj Nigam

    Can I watch Asian Games Cricket Final 2026 on my mobile?

    Of course, most broadcasters have streaming services that you can access through mobile apps or via your phone's browser to live stream Asian Games 2026.

    You can also stay up-to-date with all of the key Asian Games moments on the official social media channels on Instagram (@AsianGames_2026), Facebook (@AsianGames2026AichiNagoya) and YouTube (@AsianGames_).

    We test and review VPN services in the context of legal recreational uses. For example:1. Accessing a service from another country (subject to the terms and conditions of that service).2. Protecting your online security and strengthening your online privacy when abroad.We do not support or condone the illegal or malicious use of VPN services. Consuming pirated content that is paid-for is neither endorsed nor approved by Future Publishing.

    ]]>     <![CDATA[ Donald Trump's surprise "SI" announcement causes domain gold rush as Melania Trump's birth country sees over a 100X increase in interest in Super Intelligence domain names ]]>
  • Register.si logged 46,066 new .si domains in September 2026 compared with 3,515 in August after Trump said the US would call AI "superintelligence"
  • Registrations have continued to accelerate to over 12,600+ a day at the time of writing, as an increasing number of registrants lock in key domain names with the registrar
  • The rename was telegraphed by Truth Social polls from September 19, and Netcraft found speculative .si buying happening before the speech aired

    • Slovenia's national domain registry has spent the past two weeks absorbing a wave of demand thanks to an unexpected boon.

    US President Donald Trump recently told the UN General Assembly that the United States would now call artificial intelligence "super intelligence," or SI, because the word artificial "makes it sound fake."

    This has prompted buyers around the world to pile into .si, the country code of the small European nation where First Lady Melania Trump was born.

    An unintended co-incidence?

    The First Lady was born in Novo Mesto in 1970, when Slovenia was still a Yugoslav republic, and Netcraft notes that she and Barron Trump both hold Slovenian citizenship. The coincidence ironically exists only because Slovenia was assigned SI when SL had already gone to Sierra Leone.

    Register.si, in a screengrab of the site, registered only 3,515 domains in August 2026, while one day saw the website register as many as 12,491 across 92 domain registrars, even as the site shows 46,066 registrations at the time of writing, indicating an impressive 13.1x increase monthly or pro-rated, a 106x increase when compared with an average day in August.

    The monthly numbers might be even more impressive if one considers the statement of the Register.si spokeswoman, Klara Herman, to the BBC, where she stated that "44,000 web addresses with the .si suffix had been registered in September, compared to less than 2,000 in August - an increase of more than 2,100%".

    One could, however, argue this isn't a complete surprise: on September 19, Trump posted a poll on Truth Social offering Superior, Extreme, or Supreme Intelligence as replacements for AI, two of which abbreviate to SI.

    On September 21, he promised in a post that he would "only encourage AI or SI (SUPER INTELLIGENCE)!", and a second poll pitting super against superior intelligence drew more than 50,000 votes. This also sparked a betting spree: a Polymarket contract on whether Trump would rename AI by September 30 opened on September 20 and drew $151,000 in bets by September 23.

    The obvious beneficiary for now seems to be the state of Slovenia, though at a limited scale; Register.si still charges every registrar the same €10 per domain, and the registry has said media speculation about millions in earnings for Slovenia has "no real basis".

    Domain Name Wire estimated roughly €300,000 in additional September revenue for the state, though that number may be dated, given the current total stands at 46,066 domains or €460,660 and may be even higher. Anguilla, by contrast, earned around $32 million from .ai in 2023, more than 20% of government revenue, according to IMF figures cited by Foreign Policy,

    The less obvious, but considerably more lucrative, play is speculative buying of potentially high-value domain names should the trend catch on, to flip for a high multiple (100x, 1000x, or even higher in certain cases) on transfer.

    The more interesting question is what SI could eventually mean, and whether it is one used by the rest of the world. The White House fact sheet says the order directs agencies to use Super Intelligence and SI in official communications and "to no longer acknowledge" the old terms, but it applies only to executive branch documents outside statute. It has no say in whether the nomenclature actually catches up with or replaces AI in an industry that has far more pressing concerns to address than its own name.

    ]]>     https://www.techradar.com/pro/donald-trumps-surprise-si-announcement-causes-domain-gold-rush-as-melania-trumps-birth-country-sees-over-a-100x-increase-in-interest-in-super-intelligence-domain-names nrxC49UJobXbFfjZAECDk4 Sat, 03 Oct 2026 00:05:00 +0000 false false false
    • Register.si logged 46,066 new .si domains in September 2026 compared with 3,515 in August after Trump said the US would call AI "superintelligence"
    • Registrations have continued to accelerate to over 12,600+ a day at the time of writing, as an increasing number of registrants lock in key domain names with the registrar
    • The rename was telegraphed by Truth Social polls from September 19, and Netcraft found speculative .si buying happening before the speech aired

    Slovenia's national domain registry has spent the past two weeks absorbing a wave of demand thanks to an unexpected boon.

    US President Donald Trump recently told the UN General Assembly that the United States would now call artificial intelligence "super intelligence," or SI, because the word artificial "makes it sound fake."

    This has prompted buyers around the world to pile into .si, the country code of the small European nation where First Lady Melania Trump was born.

    An unintended co-incidence?

    The First Lady was born in Novo Mesto in 1970, when Slovenia was still a Yugoslav republic, and Netcraft notes that she and Barron Trump both hold Slovenian citizenship. The coincidence ironically exists only because Slovenia was assigned SI when SL had already gone to Sierra Leone.

    Register.si, in a screengrab of the site, registered only 3,515 domains in August 2026, while one day saw the website register as many as 12,491 across 92 domain registrars, even as the site shows 46,066 registrations at the time of writing, indicating an impressive 13.1x increase monthly or pro-rated, a 106x increase when compared with an average day in August.

    The monthly numbers might be even more impressive if one considers the statement of the Register.si spokeswoman, Klara Herman, to the BBC, where she stated that "44,000 web addresses with the .si suffix had been registered in September, compared to less than 2,000 in August - an increase of more than 2,100%".

    One could, however, argue this isn't a complete surprise: on September 19, Trump posted a poll on Truth Social offering Superior, Extreme, or Supreme Intelligence as replacements for AI, two of which abbreviate to SI.

    On September 21, he promised in a post that he would "only encourage AI or SI (SUPER INTELLIGENCE)!", and a second poll pitting super against superior intelligence drew more than 50,000 votes. This also sparked a betting spree: a Polymarket contract on whether Trump would rename AI by September 30 opened on September 20 and drew $151,000 in bets by September 23.

    The obvious beneficiary for now seems to be the state of Slovenia, though at a limited scale; Register.si still charges every registrar the same €10 per domain, and the registry has said media speculation about millions in earnings for Slovenia has "no real basis".

    Domain Name Wire estimated roughly €300,000 in additional September revenue for the state, though that number may be dated, given the current total stands at 46,066 domains or €460,660 and may be even higher. Anguilla, by contrast, earned around $32 million from .ai in 2023, more than 20% of government revenue, according to IMF figures cited by Foreign Policy,

    The less obvious, but considerably more lucrative, play is speculative buying of potentially high-value domain names should the trend catch on, to flip for a high multiple (100x, 1000x, or even higher in certain cases) on transfer.

    The more interesting question is what SI could eventually mean, and whether it is one used by the rest of the world. The White House fact sheet says the order directs agencies to use Super Intelligence and SI in official communications and "to no longer acknowledge" the old terms, but it applies only to executive branch documents outside statute. It has no say in whether the nomenclature actually catches up with or replaces AI in an industry that has far more pressing concerns to address than its own name.

    ]]>     <![CDATA[ DoorDash says its new drone can get food to you in under five minutes ]]>
  • DoorDash has unveiled the drone it's testing with deliveries
  • An average delivery time of under five minutes is promised
  • The drones will be tested in a limited trial in North California

    • The future of doorstep delivery is drones apparently (well, drones and robots): DoorDash has unveiled a new drone ready to get food to you in under five minutes on average, even as Amazon faces a growing number of complaints over its own drone delivery service.

    DoorDash has been planning drone deliveries for a while, calling the scheme DoorDash Air, and we've now been given a look at the six-propeller aircraft that'll be doing the delivering. A trial is planned for Northern California, in partnership with restaurant brands including Chipotle and Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen.

    A lot of work has gone into the pick-up and drop-off infrastructure and ordering system, DoorDash says, as well as the drone itself. The company estimates that around 80% of customer orders are light enough to transport by drone, and initial tests suggest orders can be delivered in less than five minutes on average.

    Reaction online hasn't been overwhelmingly positive though. "Wait until the birds learn there’s food in those boxes," writes one Redditor, while others express concerns about bad weather, cold food, and packages accidentally being dropped from the skies.

    Noise complaints

    "Any local business should be able to reach consumers by air," says DoorDash Air chief Harrison Shih. "We built the whole system so that they can deliver by air without being disruptive to how they run their business."

    The drones won't land when they deliver — they'll lower their cargo in front of your door or in your backyard and then zoom away again. According to DoorDash, failsafes will be built in so the drones can safely land in emergencies, and their cruising noise will be comparable to a passing car "at delivery height".

    That noise element might be crucial to the scheme's success. As TechSpot reports, residents in Richardson, Texas are none too pleased about the constant buzzing being created by Amazon drones, which launched Prime Air in the area last December. The sound has been compared to that of a flying lawnmower.

    Dozens of drones can pass overhead each day, residents say. The Prime Air aircraft are allowed to fly between the hours of 7am and 8pm, and Amazon says noise complaints have been a small share of customer feedback.

    ]]>     https://www.techradar.com/cameras/drones/doordash-says-its-new-drone-can-get-food-to-you-in-under-five-minutes-but-texas-residents-are-already-calling-amazon-drone-noise-a-big-problem PHgYrUXsW2NX4gSD2gCRYG Sat, 03 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0000 false false false
    • DoorDash has unveiled the drone it's testing with deliveries
    • An average delivery time of under five minutes is promised
    • The drones will be tested in a limited trial in North California

    The future of doorstep delivery is drones apparently (well, drones and robots): DoorDash has unveiled a new drone ready to get food to you in under five minutes on average, even as Amazon faces a growing number of complaints over its own drone delivery service.

    DoorDash has been planning drone deliveries for a while, calling the scheme DoorDash Air, and we've now been given a look at the six-propeller aircraft that'll be doing the delivering. A trial is planned for Northern California, in partnership with restaurant brands including Chipotle and Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen.

    A lot of work has gone into the pick-up and drop-off infrastructure and ordering system, DoorDash says, as well as the drone itself. The company estimates that around 80% of customer orders are light enough to transport by drone, and initial tests suggest orders can be delivered in less than five minutes on average.

    Reaction online hasn't been overwhelmingly positive though. "Wait until the birds learn there’s food in those boxes," writes one Redditor, while others express concerns about bad weather, cold food, and packages accidentally being dropped from the skies.

    Noise complaints

    "Any local business should be able to reach consumers by air," says DoorDash Air chief Harrison Shih. "We built the whole system so that they can deliver by air without being disruptive to how they run their business."

    The drones won't land when they deliver — they'll lower their cargo in front of your door or in your backyard and then zoom away again. According to DoorDash, failsafes will be built in so the drones can safely land in emergencies, and their cruising noise will be comparable to a passing car "at delivery height".

    That noise element might be crucial to the scheme's success. As TechSpot reports, residents in Richardson, Texas are none too pleased about the constant buzzing being created by Amazon drones, which launched Prime Air in the area last December. The sound has been compared to that of a flying lawnmower.

    Dozens of drones can pass overhead each day, residents say. The Prime Air aircraft are allowed to fly between the hours of 7am and 8pm, and Amazon says noise complaints have been a small share of customer feedback.

    ]]>     <![CDATA[ US, UK Navy launch heavyweight torpedo from unmanned vessel in what the military calls 'a historic first for allied undersea warfare' ]]>
  • British XV Excalibur robotic submarine has now launched an American Mk 48 heavyweight torpedo
  • Project Broadsword completed its first weapon integration test in seven months
  • Engineers mounted the 3,700-pound Mk 48 torpedo externally beneath XV Excalibur’s hull

    • The US Navy and Royal Navy have launched an American Mk 48 heavyweight torpedo from the British XV Excalibur uncrewed submarine during testing in Scotland.

    Held on September 13 2026, the launch took place at the British Underwater Test & Evaluation Centre under Project Broadsword, approved only seven months earlier.

    It examined whether an American weapon could be integrated with a British autonomous underwater vessel through compatible mechanical, electrical and software systems.

    AUKUS Pillar II sets the framework for Broadsword

    AUKUS is a security partnership between Australia, the United Kingdom and the United States covering cooperation on advanced military capabilities.

    Its second pillar, known as AUKUS Pillar II, focuses on developing and sharing advanced capabilities including artificial intelligence, autonomy, quantum technologies and advanced undersea systems.

    Project Broadsword is part of this technology-focused cooperation, with the latest trial applying allied interoperability to an American weapon and British uncrewed underwater vessel.

    Approved in February 2026, Project Broadsword brought together the Department of the Navy Rapid Capabilities Office (DONRCO), OPNAV N97, Royal Navy, Defense Innovation Unit, Naval Undersea Warfare Center Keyport and industry partners.

    The project connected the Mk 48 with XV Excalibur, an extra-large uncrewed underwater vessel designed for autonomous or remotely controlled operations.

    Unlike a conventional attack submarine, Excalibur does not have traditional internal torpedo tubes, so engineers mounted the approximately 3,700-pound weapon externally beneath its hull.

    That configuration allowed the teams to conduct the launch while testing the interfaces required between the American torpedo and British underwater platform.

    Excalibur had already been used by the Royal Navy as a mobile underwater laboratory for testing technologies and future payloads.

    In 2025, the vessel was remotely controlled in British waters from a command centre in Australia, approximately 10,000 miles away.

    Those tests gave the Royal Navy experience operating an uncrewed underwater platform without placing personnel aboard the vessel during its missions.

    “This successful test marks a historic first for allied undersea warfare…validates our shared vision for true interchangeability,” said Adm. Daryl Caudle, Chief of Naval Operations.

    “By integrating weapons, payloads, and mission architectures across allied platforms, we are increasing the flexibility, scale, and combat power of our combined forces and ensuring they are ready to meet the strategic demands of tomorrow.”

    The test showed that a U.S. weapon could be integrated with a British uncrewed platform rather than requiring both systems to develop exclusively around individual systems.

    Vice Adm. Robert Gaucher, Director of Submarine Programs, described the launch as an important early step toward developing greater interoperability for autonomous undersea systems.

    Project CUTLASS will take the integration further

    The US Navy plans to continue the work through Project CUTLASS, using Anduril's Dive-XL platform for the next stage of development.

    The follow-on effort will examine payload integration, command and control systems, and operational scenarios involving uncrewed underwater platforms.

    The Navy said this work will further develop the use of autonomous underwater vessels with different payloads and mission systems.

    The September launch completed the Broadsword proof-of-concept, while CUTLASS now moves the effort toward additional integration and operational testing.

    Further trials will determine whether the approach can support other weapons, platforms and mission configurations beyond the system used during Broadsword.

    Google logo on a black background next to text reading 'Click to follow TechRadar'

    ]]>     https://www.techradar.com/pro/us-uk-navy-launch-heavyweight-torpedo-from-unmanned-vessel-in-what-the-military-calls-a-historic-first-for-allied-undersea-warfare 4DDzJgLkzxKKVrMovGDpVa Fri, 02 Oct 2026 23:30:00 +0000 false false false
    • British XV Excalibur robotic submarine has now launched an American Mk 48 heavyweight torpedo
    • Project Broadsword completed its first weapon integration test in seven months
    • Engineers mounted the 3,700-pound Mk 48 torpedo externally beneath XV Excalibur’s hull

    The US Navy and Royal Navy have launched an American Mk 48 heavyweight torpedo from the British XV Excalibur uncrewed submarine during testing in Scotland.

    Held on September 13 2026, the launch took place at the British Underwater Test & Evaluation Centre under Project Broadsword, approved only seven months earlier.

    It examined whether an American weapon could be integrated with a British autonomous underwater vessel through compatible mechanical, electrical and software systems.

    AUKUS Pillar II sets the framework for Broadsword

    AUKUS is a security partnership between Australia, the United Kingdom and the United States covering cooperation on advanced military capabilities.

    Its second pillar, known as AUKUS Pillar II, focuses on developing and sharing advanced capabilities including artificial intelligence, autonomy, quantum technologies and advanced undersea systems.

    Project Broadsword is part of this technology-focused cooperation, with the latest trial applying allied interoperability to an American weapon and British uncrewed underwater vessel.

    Approved in February 2026, Project Broadsword brought together the Department of the Navy Rapid Capabilities Office (DONRCO), OPNAV N97, Royal Navy, Defense Innovation Unit, Naval Undersea Warfare Center Keyport and industry partners.

    The project connected the Mk 48 with XV Excalibur, an extra-large uncrewed underwater vessel designed for autonomous or remotely controlled operations.

    Unlike a conventional attack submarine, Excalibur does not have traditional internal torpedo tubes, so engineers mounted the approximately 3,700-pound weapon externally beneath its hull.

    That configuration allowed the teams to conduct the launch while testing the interfaces required between the American torpedo and British underwater platform.

    Excalibur had already been used by the Royal Navy as a mobile underwater laboratory for testing technologies and future payloads.

    In 2025, the vessel was remotely controlled in British waters from a command centre in Australia, approximately 10,000 miles away.

    Those tests gave the Royal Navy experience operating an uncrewed underwater platform without placing personnel aboard the vessel during its missions.

    “This successful test marks a historic first for allied undersea warfare…validates our shared vision for true interchangeability,” said Adm. Daryl Caudle, Chief of Naval Operations.

    “By integrating weapons, payloads, and mission architectures across allied platforms, we are increasing the flexibility, scale, and combat power of our combined forces and ensuring they are ready to meet the strategic demands of tomorrow.”

    The test showed that a U.S. weapon could be integrated with a British uncrewed platform rather than requiring both systems to develop exclusively around individual systems.

    Vice Adm. Robert Gaucher, Director of Submarine Programs, described the launch as an important early step toward developing greater interoperability for autonomous undersea systems.

    Project CUTLASS will take the integration further

    The US Navy plans to continue the work through Project CUTLASS, using Anduril's Dive-XL platform for the next stage of development.

    The follow-on effort will examine payload integration, command and control systems, and operational scenarios involving uncrewed underwater platforms.

    The Navy said this work will further develop the use of autonomous underwater vessels with different payloads and mission systems.

    The September launch completed the Broadsword proof-of-concept, while CUTLASS now moves the effort toward additional integration and operational testing.

    Further trials will determine whether the approach can support other weapons, platforms and mission configurations beyond the system used during Broadsword.

    Google logo on a black background next to text reading 'Click to follow TechRadar'

    ]]>     <![CDATA[ NYT Connections hints and answers for Saturday, October 3 (game #1210) ]]>
    Looking for a different day?

    A new NYT Connections puzzle appears at midnight each day for your time zone – which means that some people are always playing 'today's game' while others are playing 'yesterday's'. If you're looking for Friday's puzzle instead then click here: NYT Connections hints and answers for Friday, October 2 (game #1209).

    Good morning! Let's play Connections, the NYT's clever word game that challenges you to group answers in various categories. It can be tough, so read on if you need Connections hints.

    What should you do once you've finished? Why, play some more word games of course. I've also got daily Strands hints and answers and Quordle hints and answers articles if you need help for those too, while Marc's Wordle today page covers the original viral word game.

    SPOILER WARNING: Information about NYT Connections today is below, so don't read on if you don't want to know the answers.

    NYT Connections today (game #1210) - today's words

    NYT Connections hints for game 1210 on a purple background

    (Image credit: New York Times)

    Today's NYT Connections words are…

    • WHITNEY HOUSTON
    • LINDA HAMILTON
    • RIVER PHOENIX
    • JOHN DENVER
    • GETTY IMAGES
    • ELBOW GREASE
    • CAN OPENER
    • SOMETHING
    • WICKED
    • FAT CATS
    • HEAD WAITER
    • MERV GRIFFIN
    • BROAD BEAN
    • NY GIANT
    • MET HALFWAY
    • W.C. FIELDS
    • DIET SPRITE

    NYT Connections today (game #1210) - hint #1 - group hints

    What are some clues for today's NYT Connections groups?

    • YELLOW: Begin with a trip to the loo
    • GREEN: A sing-a-long ending
    • BLUE: Know your history for starters
    • PURPLE: Hiding mythical beasts

    Need more clues?

    We're firmly in spoiler territory now, but read on if you want to know what the four theme answers are for today's NYT Connections puzzles…

    NYT Connections today (game #1210) - hint #2 - group answers

    What are the answers for today's NYT Connections groups?

    • YELLOW: STARTING WITH TERMS FOR "TOILET"
    • GREEN: ENDING IN MUSICALS
    • BLUE: STARTING WITH U.S. MUSEUMS
    • PURPLE: ENDING IN FANTASY CREATURES

    Right, the answers are below, so DO NOT SCROLL ANY FURTHER IF YOU DON'T WANT TO SEE THEM.

    NYT Connections today (game #1210) - the answers

    NYT Connections answers for game 1210 on a purple background

    (Image credit: New York Times)

    The answers to today's Connections, game #1210, are…

    • YELLOW: STARTING WITH TERMS FOR "TOILET": CAN OPENER, HEAD WAITER, JOHN DENVER, W.C. FIELDS
    • GREEN: ENDING IN MUSICALS: ELBOW GREASE, FAT CATS, LINDA HAMILTON, SOMETHING WICKED
    • BLUE: STARTING WITH U.S. MUSEUMS: BROAD BEAN, GETTY IMAGES, MET HALFWAY, WHITNEY HOUSTON
    • PURPLE: ENDING IN FANTASY CREATURES: DIET SPRITE, MERV GRIFFIN, NY GIANT, RIVER PHOENIX
    • My rating: Hard
    • My score: 1 mistake

    I am always thrown by slightly different Connections tiles and today was no different with its baffling selection of two-word options.

    Things got more confusing, for me at least, after a potential North American cities thread of WHITNEY HOUSTON, LINDA HAMILTON, RIVER PHOENIX, and JOHN DENVER turned out to be a dead end. I wasn’t certain about Hamilton, but there is a city called that in Ohio.

    The WC in WC FIELDS was the tile that unlocked the game for me and from here I cobbled my way through, although when it came to the final eight tiles it was more by luck than judgement that I didn’t make another mistake. A tough one.

    Yesterday's NYT Connections answers (Friday, October 2, 2026, game #1209)

    • YELLOW: FINANCE: BACK, BANKROLL, FUND, SUPPORT
    • GREEN: FINGERS: INDEX, LITTLE, MIDDLE, RING
    • BLUE: CUSTOMARY: COMMON, ROUTINE, STANDARD, STOCK
    • PURPLE: PRIME_____: NUMBER, REAL ESTATE, RIB, TIME

    What is NYT Connections?

    NYT Connections is one of several increasingly popular word games made by the New York Times. It challenges you to find groups of four items that share something in common, and each group has a different difficulty level: green is easy, yellow a little harder, blue often quite tough and purple usually very difficult.

    On the plus side, you don't technically need to solve the final one, as you'll be able to answer that one by a process of elimination. What's more, you can make up to four mistakes, which gives you a little bit of breathing room.

    It's a little more involved than something like Wordle, however, and there are plenty of opportunities for the game to trip you up with tricks. For instance, watch out for homophones and other word games that could disguise the answers.

    It's playable for free via the NYT Games site on desktop or mobile.

    ]]>     https://www.techradar.com/gaming/nyt-connections-today-answers-hints-3-october-2026 zYd5guKaaa7gByVbVvVcr6 Fri, 02 Oct 2026 23:00:00 +0000 false false false
    Looking for a different day?

    A new NYT Connections puzzle appears at midnight each day for your time zone – which means that some people are always playing 'today's game' while others are playing 'yesterday's'. If you're looking for Friday's puzzle instead then click here: NYT Connections hints and answers for Friday, October 2 (game #1209).

    Good morning! Let's play Connections, the NYT's clever word game that challenges you to group answers in various categories. It can be tough, so read on if you need Connections hints.

    What should you do once you've finished? Why, play some more word games of course. I've also got daily Strands hints and answers and Quordle hints and answers articles if you need help for those too, while Marc's Wordle today page covers the original viral word game.

    SPOILER WARNING: Information about NYT Connections today is below, so don't read on if you don't want to know the answers.

    NYT Connections today (game #1210) - today's words

    NYT Connections hints for game 1210 on a purple background

    (Image credit: New York Times)

    Today's NYT Connections words are…

    • WHITNEY HOUSTON
    • LINDA HAMILTON
    • RIVER PHOENIX
    • JOHN DENVER
    • GETTY IMAGES
    • ELBOW GREASE
    • CAN OPENER
    • SOMETHING
    • WICKED
    • FAT CATS
    • HEAD WAITER
    • MERV GRIFFIN
    • BROAD BEAN
    • NY GIANT
    • MET HALFWAY
    • W.C. FIELDS
    • DIET SPRITE

    NYT Connections today (game #1210) - hint #1 - group hints

    What are some clues for today's NYT Connections groups?

    • YELLOW: Begin with a trip to the loo
    • GREEN: A sing-a-long ending
    • BLUE: Know your history for starters
    • PURPLE: Hiding mythical beasts

    Need more clues?

    We're firmly in spoiler territory now, but read on if you want to know what the four theme answers are for today's NYT Connections puzzles…

    NYT Connections today (game #1210) - hint #2 - group answers

    What are the answers for today's NYT Connections groups?

    • YELLOW: STARTING WITH TERMS FOR "TOILET"
    • GREEN: ENDING IN MUSICALS
    • BLUE: STARTING WITH U.S. MUSEUMS
    • PURPLE: ENDING IN FANTASY CREATURES

    Right, the answers are below, so DO NOT SCROLL ANY FURTHER IF YOU DON'T WANT TO SEE THEM.

    NYT Connections today (game #1210) - the answers

    NYT Connections answers for game 1210 on a purple background

    (Image credit: New York Times)

    The answers to today's Connections, game #1210, are…

    • YELLOW: STARTING WITH TERMS FOR "TOILET": CAN OPENER, HEAD WAITER, JOHN DENVER, W.C. FIELDS
    • GREEN: ENDING IN MUSICALS: ELBOW GREASE, FAT CATS, LINDA HAMILTON, SOMETHING WICKED
    • BLUE: STARTING WITH U.S. MUSEUMS: BROAD BEAN, GETTY IMAGES, MET HALFWAY, WHITNEY HOUSTON
    • PURPLE: ENDING IN FANTASY CREATURES: DIET SPRITE, MERV GRIFFIN, NY GIANT, RIVER PHOENIX
    • My rating: Hard
    • My score: 1 mistake

    I am always thrown by slightly different Connections tiles and today was no different with its baffling selection of two-word options.

    Things got more confusing, for me at least, after a potential North American cities thread of WHITNEY HOUSTON, LINDA HAMILTON, RIVER PHOENIX, and JOHN DENVER turned out to be a dead end. I wasn’t certain about Hamilton, but there is a city called that in Ohio.

    The WC in WC FIELDS was the tile that unlocked the game for me and from here I cobbled my way through, although when it came to the final eight tiles it was more by luck than judgement that I didn’t make another mistake. A tough one.

    Yesterday's NYT Connections answers (Friday, October 2, 2026, game #1209)

    • YELLOW: FINANCE: BACK, BANKROLL, FUND, SUPPORT
    • GREEN: FINGERS: INDEX, LITTLE, MIDDLE, RING
    • BLUE: CUSTOMARY: COMMON, ROUTINE, STANDARD, STOCK
    • PURPLE: PRIME_____: NUMBER, REAL ESTATE, RIB, TIME

    What is NYT Connections?

    NYT Connections is one of several increasingly popular word games made by the New York Times. It challenges you to find groups of four items that share something in common, and each group has a different difficulty level: green is easy, yellow a little harder, blue often quite tough and purple usually very difficult.

    On the plus side, you don't technically need to solve the final one, as you'll be able to answer that one by a process of elimination. What's more, you can make up to four mistakes, which gives you a little bit of breathing room.

    It's a little more involved than something like Wordle, however, and there are plenty of opportunities for the game to trip you up with tricks. For instance, watch out for homophones and other word games that could disguise the answers.

    It's playable for free via the NYT Games site on desktop or mobile.

    ]]>     <![CDATA[ NYT Strands hints and answers for Saturday, October 3 (game #944) ]]>
    Looking for a different day?

    A new NYT Strands puzzle appears at midnight each day for your time zone – which means that some people are always playing 'today's game' while others are playing 'yesterday's'. If you're looking for Friday's puzzle instead then click here: NYT Strands hints and answers for Friday, October 2 (game #943).

    Strands is the NYT's latest word game after the likes of Wordle, Spelling Bee and Connections – and it's great fun. It can be difficult, though, so read on for my Strands hints.

    Want more word-based fun? Then check out my NYT Connections today and Quordle today pages for hints and answers for those games, and Marc's Wordle today page for the original viral word game.

    SPOILER WARNING: Information about NYT Strands today is below, so don't read on if you don't want to know the answers.

    NYT Strands today (game #944) - hint #1 - today's theme

    What is the theme of today's NYT Strands?

    • Today's NYT Strands theme is… A figment of your imagination

    NYT Strands today (game #944) - hint #2 - clue words

    Play any of these words to unlock the in-game hints system.

    • SNOT
    • MONTH
    • HIRE
    • SPREE
    • THRILL
    • OTHER

    NYT Strands today (game #944) - hint #3 - spangram letters

    How many letters are in today's spangram?

    • Spangram has 12 letters

    NYT Strands today (game #944) - hint #4 - spangram position

    What are two sides of the board that today's spangram touches?

    • First side: bottom, 1st column

    • Last side: top, 6th column

    Right, the answers are below, so DO NOT SCROLL ANY FURTHER IF YOU DON'T WANT TO SEE THEM.

    NYT Strands today (game #944) - the answers

    NYT Strands answers for game 944 on a blue background

    (Image credit: New York Times)

    The answers to today's Strands, game #944, are…

    • MIRAGE
    • ILLUSION
    • CHIMERA
    • SPECTER
    • PHANTASM
    • SPANGRAM:WILLOTHEWISP
    • My rating: Hard
    • My score: 1 hint

    WILLOTHEWISP was a spangram I didn’t see until the end of what was quite a long game featuring plenty of interesting and well hidden words.

    After getting MIRAGE right away I was expecting an easy game, but far from it. Instead, I labored onwards and needed a mid-game hint, which delivered the enigmatic word CHIMERA.

    Will-o-the-wisp is a ghostly flickering light seen over bogs, swamps, and marshes at night — a trick of the light that spooks and entrances, not to be confused with a 1970s British children's cartoon series called Willo The Wisp, about a blue ghost voiced by Kenneth Williams and a snooty cat based on Noel Coward. Yes, really.

    Yesterday's NYT Strands answers (Friday, October 2, game #943)

    • SHIFTY
    • COVERT
    • DEVIOUS
    • STEALTHY
    • FURTIVE
    • SPANGRAM: SNEAKINGAROUND

    What is NYT Strands?

    Strands is the NYT's not-so-new-any-more word game, following Wordle and Connections. It's now a fully fledged member of the NYT's games stable that has been running for a year and which can be played on the NYT Games site on desktop or mobile.

    I've got a full guide to how to play NYT Strands, complete with tips for solving it, so check that out if you're struggling to beat it each day.

    ]]>     https://www.techradar.com/computing/websites-apps/nyt-strands-today-answers-hints-3-october-2026 TF2oDUHNGYcermr7hfrPF9 Fri, 02 Oct 2026 23:00:00 +0000 false false false
    Looking for a different day?

    A new NYT Strands puzzle appears at midnight each day for your time zone – which means that some people are always playing 'today's game' while others are playing 'yesterday's'. If you're looking for Friday's puzzle instead then click here: NYT Strands hints and answers for Friday, October 2 (game #943).

    Strands is the NYT's latest word game after the likes of Wordle, Spelling Bee and Connections – and it's great fun. It can be difficult, though, so read on for my Strands hints.

    Want more word-based fun? Then check out my NYT Connections today and Quordle today pages for hints and answers for those games, and Marc's Wordle today page for the original viral word game.

    SPOILER WARNING: Information about NYT Strands today is below, so don't read on if you don't want to know the answers.

    NYT Strands today (game #944) - hint #1 - today's theme

    What is the theme of today's NYT Strands?

    • Today's NYT Strands theme is… A figment of your imagination

    NYT Strands today (game #944) - hint #2 - clue words

    Play any of these words to unlock the in-game hints system.

    • SNOT
    • MONTH
    • HIRE
    • SPREE
    • THRILL
    • OTHER

    NYT Strands today (game #944) - hint #3 - spangram letters

    How many letters are in today's spangram?

    • Spangram has 12 letters

    NYT Strands today (game #944) - hint #4 - spangram position

    What are two sides of the board that today's spangram touches?

    • First side: bottom, 1st column

    • Last side: top, 6th column

    Right, the answers are below, so DO NOT SCROLL ANY FURTHER IF YOU DON'T WANT TO SEE THEM.

    NYT Strands today (game #944) - the answers

    NYT Strands answers for game 944 on a blue background

    (Image credit: New York Times)

    The answers to today's Strands, game #944, are…

    • MIRAGE
    • ILLUSION
    • CHIMERA
    • SPECTER
    • PHANTASM
    • SPANGRAM:WILLOTHEWISP
    • My rating: Hard
    • My score: 1 hint

    WILLOTHEWISP was a spangram I didn’t see until the end of what was quite a long game featuring plenty of interesting and well hidden words.

    After getting MIRAGE right away I was expecting an easy game, but far from it. Instead, I labored onwards and needed a mid-game hint, which delivered the enigmatic word CHIMERA.

    Will-o-the-wisp is a ghostly flickering light seen over bogs, swamps, and marshes at night — a trick of the light that spooks and entrances, not to be confused with a 1970s British children's cartoon series called Willo The Wisp, about a blue ghost voiced by Kenneth Williams and a snooty cat based on Noel Coward. Yes, really.

    Yesterday's NYT Strands answers (Friday, October 2, game #943)

    • SHIFTY
    • COVERT
    • DEVIOUS
    • STEALTHY
    • FURTIVE
    • SPANGRAM: SNEAKINGAROUND

    What is NYT Strands?

    Strands is the NYT's not-so-new-any-more word game, following Wordle and Connections. It's now a fully fledged member of the NYT's games stable that has been running for a year and which can be played on the NYT Games site on desktop or mobile.

    I've got a full guide to how to play NYT Strands, complete with tips for solving it, so check that out if you're struggling to beat it each day.

    ]]>     <![CDATA[ Quordle hints and answers for Saturday, October 3 (game #1713) ]]>
    Looking for a different day?

    A new Quordle puzzle appears at midnight each day for your time zone – which means that some people are always playing 'today's game' while others are playing 'yesterday's'. If you're looking for Friday's puzzle instead then click here: Quordle hints and answers for Friday, October 2 (game #1712).

    Quordle was one of the original Wordle alternatives and is still going strong now more than 1,500 games later. It offers a genuine challenge, though, so read on if you need some Quordle hints today — or scroll down further for the answers.

    Enjoy playing word games? You can also check out my NYT Connections today and NYT Strands today pages for hints and answers for those puzzles, while Marc's Wordle today column covers the original viral word game.

    SPOILER WARNING: Information about Quordle today is below, so don't read on if you don't want to know the answers.

    Quordle today (game #1713) — hint #1 — Vowels

    How many different vowels are in Quordle today?

    • The number of different vowels in Quordle today is 4*.

    * Note that by vowel we mean the five standard vowels (A, E, I, O, U), not Y (which is sometimes counted as a vowel too).

    Quordle today (game #1713) — hint #2 — repeated letters

    Do any of today's Quordle answers contain repeated letters?

    • The number of Quordle answers containing a repeated letter today is 0.

    Quordle today (game #1713) — hint #3 — uncommon letters

    Do the letters Q, Z, X or J appear in Quordle today?

    • No. None of Q, Z, X or J appear among today's Quordle answers.

    Quordle today (game #1713) — hint #4 — starting letters (1)

    Do any of today's Quordle puzzles start with the same letter?

    • The number of today's Quordle answers starting with the same letter is 0.

    If you just want to know the answers at this stage, simply scroll down. If you're not ready yet then here's one more clue to make things a lot easier:

    Quordle today (game #1713) — hint #5 — starting letters (2)

    What letters do today's Quordle answers start with?

    • C

    • F

    • S

    • P

    Right, the answers are below, so DO NOT SCROLL ANY FURTHER IF YOU DON'T WANT TO SEE THEM.

    Quordle today (game #1713) — the answers

    Quordle answers for game 1713 on a yellow background

    (Image credit: Merriam-Webster)

    The answers to today's Quordle, game #1713, are…

    • CHORE
    • FLYER
    • STICK
    • PURSE

    I had one of those games today where every word worked out and I didn’t really have to do much thinking.

    Much of that was down to my starter words coming up with lots of letters, but the fact that all I had to do was find four words with very common letter combinations also helped.

    Daily Sequence today (game #1713) — the answers

    Quordle Daily Sequence answers for game 1713 on a yellow background

    (Image credit: Merriam-Webster)

    The answers to today's Quordle Daily Sequence, game #1713, are…

    • TWICE
    • BAKER
    • SCRUB
    • FRISK

    Quordle answers: The past 20

    • IVORY
    • SADLY
    • ANGEL
    • LLAMA
    • Quordle #1712, Friday, 2 October: IVORY, SADLY, ANGEL, LLAMA
    • Quordle #1711, Thursday, 1 October: NAVEL, SHEER, BIRTH, TACKY
    • Quordle #1710, Wednesday, 30 September: CHOKE, BATCH, MOSSY, EAGER
    • Quordle #1709, Tuesday, 29 September: BILGE, MEDAL, LODGE, PORCH
    • Quordle #1708, Monday, 28 September: BRUNT, TORSO, STONE, HEATH
    • Quordle #1707, Sunday, 27 September: VALET, CHEST, VIGIL, PUREE
    • Quordle #1706, Saturday, 26 September: SNORT, BIBLE, LAPSE, CRANE
    • Quordle #1705, Friday, 25 September: SWEAR, FLOOD, GUPPY, GROAN
    • Quordle #1704, Thursday, 24 September: TOPIC, METRO, SCALP, FREED
    • Quordle #1703, Wednesday, 23 September: SHEET, BLAND, JOIST, GUAVA
    • Quordle #1702, Tuesday, 22 September: COMFY, LOBBY, DRESS, PANEL
    • Quordle #1701, Monday, 21 September: WAXEN, HIPPO, PETAL, LEASH
    • Quordle #1700, Sunday, 20 September: DERBY, LIMBO, GAWKY, REIGN
    • Quordle #1699, Saturday, 19 September: SCOPE, HEIST, PULSE, CHAMP
    • Quordle #1698, Friday, 18 September: MUCUS, MIRTH, APPLE, TILDE
    • Quordle #1697, Thursday, 17 September: CRIER, CHIRP, NEIGH, FREER
    • Quordle #1696, Wednesday, 16 September: SPEAR, PRICE, BLUNT, FISHY
    • Quordle #1695, Tuesday, 15 September: SHUSH, LITHE, DELTA, BUGLE
    • Quordle #1694, Monday, 14 September: ZEBRA, LEGAL, RATIO, TROLL
    • Quordle #1693, Sunday, 13 September: LUCID, SPRAY, MANGE, EMAIL
    ]]>     https://www.techradar.com/computing/websites-apps/quordle-today-answers-clues-3-october-2026 7eCD6rDBD9CuHXQGZLibrC Fri, 02 Oct 2026 23:00:00 +0000 false false false
    Looking for a different day?

    A new Quordle puzzle appears at midnight each day for your time zone – which means that some people are always playing 'today's game' while others are playing 'yesterday's'. If you're looking for Friday's puzzle instead then click here: Quordle hints and answers for Friday, October 2 (game #1712).

    Quordle was one of the original Wordle alternatives and is still going strong now more than 1,500 games later. It offers a genuine challenge, though, so read on if you need some Quordle hints today — or scroll down further for the answers.

    Enjoy playing word games? You can also check out my NYT Connections today and NYT Strands today pages for hints and answers for those puzzles, while Marc's Wordle today column covers the original viral word game.

    SPOILER WARNING: Information about Quordle today is below, so don't read on if you don't want to know the answers.

    Quordle today (game #1713) — hint #1 — Vowels

    How many different vowels are in Quordle today?

    • The number of different vowels in Quordle today is 4*.

    * Note that by vowel we mean the five standard vowels (A, E, I, O, U), not Y (which is sometimes counted as a vowel too).

    Quordle today (game #1713) — hint #2 — repeated letters

    Do any of today's Quordle answers contain repeated letters?

    • The number of Quordle answers containing a repeated letter today is 0.

    Quordle today (game #1713) — hint #3 — uncommon letters

    Do the letters Q, Z, X or J appear in Quordle today?

    • No. None of Q, Z, X or J appear among today's Quordle answers.

    Quordle today (game #1713) — hint #4 — starting letters (1)

    Do any of today's Quordle puzzles start with the same letter?

    • The number of today's Quordle answers starting with the same letter is 0.

    If you just want to know the answers at this stage, simply scroll down. If you're not ready yet then here's one more clue to make things a lot easier:

    Quordle today (game #1713) — hint #5 — starting letters (2)

    What letters do today's Quordle answers start with?

    • C

    • F

    • S

    • P

    Right, the answers are below, so DO NOT SCROLL ANY FURTHER IF YOU DON'T WANT TO SEE THEM.

    Quordle today (game #1713) — the answers

    Quordle answers for game 1713 on a yellow background

    (Image credit: Merriam-Webster)

    The answers to today's Quordle, game #1713, are…

    • CHORE
    • FLYER
    • STICK
    • PURSE

    I had one of those games today where every word worked out and I didn’t really have to do much thinking.

    Much of that was down to my starter words coming up with lots of letters, but the fact that all I had to do was find four words with very common letter combinations also helped.

    Daily Sequence today (game #1713) — the answers

    Quordle Daily Sequence answers for game 1713 on a yellow background

    (Image credit: Merriam-Webster)

    The answers to today's Quordle Daily Sequence, game #1713, are…

    • TWICE
    • BAKER
    • SCRUB
    • FRISK

    Quordle answers: The past 20

    • IVORY
    • SADLY
    • ANGEL
    • LLAMA
    • Quordle #1712, Friday, 2 October: IVORY, SADLY, ANGEL, LLAMA
    • Quordle #1711, Thursday, 1 October: NAVEL, SHEER, BIRTH, TACKY
    • Quordle #1710, Wednesday, 30 September: CHOKE, BATCH, MOSSY, EAGER
    • Quordle #1709, Tuesday, 29 September: BILGE, MEDAL, LODGE, PORCH
    • Quordle #1708, Monday, 28 September: BRUNT, TORSO, STONE, HEATH
    • Quordle #1707, Sunday, 27 September: VALET, CHEST, VIGIL, PUREE
    • Quordle #1706, Saturday, 26 September: SNORT, BIBLE, LAPSE, CRANE
    • Quordle #1705, Friday, 25 September: SWEAR, FLOOD, GUPPY, GROAN
    • Quordle #1704, Thursday, 24 September: TOPIC, METRO, SCALP, FREED
    • Quordle #1703, Wednesday, 23 September: SHEET, BLAND, JOIST, GUAVA
    • Quordle #1702, Tuesday, 22 September: COMFY, LOBBY, DRESS, PANEL
    • Quordle #1701, Monday, 21 September: WAXEN, HIPPO, PETAL, LEASH
    • Quordle #1700, Sunday, 20 September: DERBY, LIMBO, GAWKY, REIGN
    • Quordle #1699, Saturday, 19 September: SCOPE, HEIST, PULSE, CHAMP
    • Quordle #1698, Friday, 18 September: MUCUS, MIRTH, APPLE, TILDE
    • Quordle #1697, Thursday, 17 September: CRIER, CHIRP, NEIGH, FREER
    • Quordle #1696, Wednesday, 16 September: SPEAR, PRICE, BLUNT, FISHY
    • Quordle #1695, Tuesday, 15 September: SHUSH, LITHE, DELTA, BUGLE
    • Quordle #1694, Monday, 14 September: ZEBRA, LEGAL, RATIO, TROLL
    • Quordle #1693, Sunday, 13 September: LUCID, SPRAY, MANGE, EMAIL
    ]]>     <![CDATA[ TCL QM7L review: the best mid-range TV of 2026 ]]> TCL QM7L: Two-minute review

    The TCL QM7L is difficult to review. Largely because it’s basically the same TV as the TCL QM8L we recently reviewed but at a cheaper price point with fewer dimming zones and lower peak brightness. Outside of that and the fact that it has a more limited version of Dolby Vision, it’s functionally the same.

    If you were to put the two TVs side by side, you would probably be tempted to go for the TCL QM8L and shell out over the extra five hundred bucks, assuming you’re going for the 65-inch size.

    But that is a lot of money and the differences are minor enough that I think the TCL QM7L is one of the best TVs in terms of value, especially if you still want a somewhat premium experience. There are plenty of decent TVs under a grand, of course, but this TV is a step above those.

    Despite the lower specs compared to some of TCL’s other offerings, the TCL QM7L is still impressive with up to 2,100 local dimming zones, up to 3,000 nits at peak brightness, TCL’s anti-halo and color enhancing tech, and AI features such as the imperfect generative voice assistant in Google Gemini. The sound is still provided by Bang & Olufsen and the refresh rate (and passthrough from HDMI ports) is high enough that it will make for one of the best gaming TVs for those trying to strike a balance between premium performance and price.

    TCL QM7L review: Price and release date

    The TCL QM7L showcasing its color coverage with a scene from Coco

    The TCL QM7L showcasing its color coverage with a scene from Coco. (Image credit: Future / James Holland)
    • Release date: April 2026
    • 55-inch: $999.99
    • 65-inch: $1,299.99
    • 75-inch: $1,499.99
    • 85-inch: $1,999.99
    • 100-inch: $2,999.99

    The TCL QM7L is an exercise in value. To be clear, there are many cheaper options available from TCL, even mid-range offerings such as the TCL QM6K, but this TV inches a little closer to premium flagship territory but with a still somewhat comfortable price tag.

    Released at the same time as the TCL QM8L and TCL X11L (April 2026), the TCL QM7L hits a lower price point with a range starting at $999.99 for its smallest size (55-inch) and ending at $2,999.99 for its biggest (100-inch). If you want something on that smaller 55-inch end, the TCL QM7L is the only way to go, as the TCL QM8L and TCL X11L aren’t available in that size.

    TCL QM7L review: Specs

    Screen type

    SQD Mini-LED

    Refresh rate

    144Hz

    HDR support

    HDR10, HDR10+, HLG, Dolby Vision IQ

    Audio support

    Dolby Atmos, Dolby Digital, DTS:X

    Smart TV

    Google TV

    HDMI ports

    4 (1 eARC, 2x HDMI 2.1 @144Hz, 2x HDMI 2.0 @60Hz)

    Built-in tuner

    ATSC 3.0

    TCL QM7L review: Benchmark results

    1 / 4

    Brightness measurements

    TCL QM7L
    HDR Filmmaker Mode (10% window)
    2270
    HDR Filmmaker Mode (Fullscreen)
    723
    TCL QM8L
    HDR Filmmaker Mode (10% window)
    3719
    HDR Filmmaker Mode (Fullscreen)
    759
    Roku Pro Series (2025)
    HDR Filmmaker Mode (10% window)
    820
    HDR Filmmaker Mode (Fullscreen)
    373
    01,0002,0003,0004,000
    nits
    HDR Filmmaker Data
    ProductHDR Filmmaker Mode (10% window) (nits)HDR Filmmaker Mode (Fullscreen) (nits)
    TCL QM7L2270723
    TCL QM8L3719759
    Roku Pro Series (2025)820373

    TCL QM7L review: Features

    The TCL QM7L TV showcases its Halo Control via a scene from the movie Soul

    The TCL QM7L TV showcases its Halo Control via a scene from the movie Soul. (Image credit: Future / James Holland)
    • Has Dolby Vision IQ
    • Google Gemini is useful but flawed
    • Uses proprietary Halo Control System for anti-blooming

    The TCL QM7L is fully featured with support for HDR and spatial audio, as well as the ability to adjust screen brightness according to ambient light, aka Dolby Vision IQ. While not as powerful as Dolby Vision 2 Max, which adjusts colors on a much deeper level, it still does a great job in making things easier to see whether you’re in a dark room or sunnier room like where I had this TV set up. Even with glare from the outside or light fixtures, I’m still able to make out everything that’s happening on the screen.

    Also worth mentioning here is the use of Google Gemini. It’s implemented the same way as I’ve experienced on every other Google TV. It’s informative, conversational (with a nice range of different voice timbres), and almost well executed. Like most learning language models right now, which it is, it’s flawed in the information it pulls up as I’ve come across a few mistakes including where to stream certain content (this won’t be an issue if you’re pulling up something well known like a Disney movie). I also don’t like the fact that I can talk to it and it will respond to commands, but I can’t get it to open and play content.

    At least the TCL QM7L still utilizes the brand’s Halo Control System for limiting blooming and Deep Color System for a wider range of colors.

    • Features Score: 4 / 5

    TCL QM7L review: Picture Quality

    TCL QM7L showing its detail and motion handling via a scene from The Batman

    TCL QM7L showing its detail and motion handling via a scene from The Batman. (Image credit: Future / James Holland)
    • Screen almost as good as more expensive models
    • Good control of blooming
    • Image quality is very good, but just lacks a little depth

    The TCL QM7L is basically a slightly worse version than the QM8L, which, in turn, is a slightly worse version of the X11L. But, let me be clear, that doesn’t make it bad. The differences are much less noticeable if you can’t A/B(/C) these TVs, while the price difference is fairly substantial.

    To look at the TCL QM7L specifically, a TV that offers up to 2,100 local dimming zones (TCL doesn’t publish the local dimming zones per size), up to 3,000 peak nits of brightness, and TCL’s anti-halo and color enhancing tech, it looks pretty good on paper. Its color accuracy has a Delta E of 2.6, which is on par with other mid-range premium-ish TVs (closer to zero is better). Similarly, its P3 color coverage of 95% is also in the same range as the TCL QM8L, X11L, and Hisense U7. The LG C5 is 99% (100% is best) P3 color coverage for comparison.

    Where the TCL QM7L’s lower price tag shows up in terms of picture quality is in brightness and luminance. Its SDR peak of 463.3909 nits in standard mode is about 9% less bright than the QM8L. Its luminance benchmark is likewise just a little lower.

    In terms of peak HDR brightness, the QM7L's peaks of 2,270 nits and 2,419 nits HDR brightness (in Filmmaker and Standard respectively) are much lower than the QM8L's (which registered 3,719 and 3,771 in the same Filmmaker and Standard modes), but still very good for a TV in this price range.

    Benchmarks don’t necessarily always tell the story, but they line up with what my experience has been using the TCL QM7L. Namely, that the picture quality is 97% of what one gets with the QM8L.

    Whether I was watching a TV show or a movie with lots of vibrant colors or even a YouTube video, the image was sharp with great motion clarity. Thanks to TCL’s Halo Control System, any kind of blooming or halo effect was kept at bay. A rewatch of Soul helped confirm that, particularly the scene where the main character, Joe Gardner, first wakes up in the afterlife as an illuminated human-shaped blob on a mostly black background. With TVs that experience serious blooming, you can see a whole cloud around him where you really shouldn’t. And here, it’s barely discernable.

    The colors look great as well. Coco also got a rewatch (I have some go-to’s for certain testing if that’s not clear) and all the vibrant colors depicted in the land of the dead have the vibrancy one would want to see when watching a movie from this.

    And The Batman made for a good showcase of the TCL QM7L’s clarity during busy scenes with a lot of motion. I like to use the Penguin chase scene for testing since it’s raining the whole time, there's some shaky cam, and an explosion as well as all the actual chasing. Everything came through clearly on this TV — I even felt like I could see the rain clearly. You could pause at any moment and have a snapshot clear enough to use a screenshot for this article.

    Because of all the HDR support, I feel like I can see details in shadows. But this TV has a more limited Dolby Vision (Dolby Vision IQ vs Dolby Vision 2 Max) than its more expensive siblings. I think between that and the slightly lower brightness, the image this TV gives just feels a little flatter than the QM8L. It’s almost as good, and, in a vacuum, it would be hard to find fault with this TV. But those various slight limitations keep the screen from having quite the depth of better (and more expensive) TVs.

    • Picture quality score: 4.5 / 5

    TCL QM7L review: Sound Quality

    The TCL QM7L has dedicated drivers in the back for a fuller audio experience.

    The TCL QM7L has dedicated drivers in the back for a fuller audio experience. (Image credit: Future / James Holland)
    • Detailed high-end and full mid-range good enough to skip soundbar
    • Not a lot of low-end and has narrow soundstage
    • Limited amount of settings for finetuning

    Most people focus on picture quality and how it improves from budget to mid-range TVs and beyond — and they should! But probably what I enjoy most when leveling up is not the improved HDR response, brightness, and color accuracy, but using a TV with sound quality good enough to skip a soundbar.

    On the TCL QM7L, the sound quality is much the same as on the TCL QM8L, insofar that it’s tuned by Bang & Olufsen and the mid-range is not hollowed out like it is on cheaper TVs. Budget rivals always seem to sound thin like there’s no mid-range and shrill as if the highs have been boosted to make up for that. I might be exaggerating there, but not by much.

    Now, there’s not much in the way of low-end, especially in the sub-bass region. So if you want that wall-shaking home theater experience, you’ll still need an external audio system capable of providing that. The same goes for any surround sound or spatial audio, though the TV does support all the necessary formats for one to experience them through an attached external system. I will say that there’s no internal virtualized spatial audio, which the TCL QM8L does have.

    Outside of that, the mid-range has plenty of presence so that dialog is easy to hear and the sound is fairly balanced, though I do find it a slightly too mid-forward for a TV. On top of this, there's a dialog mode that works decently at boosting the specific mid-range frequencies for those who might be a little hard of hearing.

    The high-end offers good clarity so that I can hear the detail in violins and such in instrumental scores playing during a dramatic scene in a movie — or British police procedural as plenty of that has been played on this TV.

    I will say that the soundstage is a bit narrow — something I didn’t expect on a 75-inch TV. So while I do hear some side-to-side movement in audio tests like those on YouTube or a scene from Top Gun: Maverick where I should hear planes whizzing by, it’s not as wide as it should be. Like the lack of low-end, this doesn’t really take away from the enjoyment of the audio here, but does hamper its immersiveness.

    As far as audio adjustments go, the sound settings menu is pretty minimal with just a treble and bass slider as a loudness setting, a few audio modes (Movie, Sports, Game, etc.), and a toggle for whether the TV is mounted or on stands. I do appreciate that Bang & Olufsen’s unique EQ wheel is available here for some more fine-tuning, though I would have preferred a five, seven, or even ten-band EQ instead.

    • Sound quality score: 4 / 5

    TCL QM7L review: Design

    The TCL QM7L has four 2.1 HDMI ports.

    The TCL QM7L has four 2.1 HDMI ports. (Image credit: Future / James Holland)
    • Adjustable center base with cable management
    • Two HDMI 2.1 ports
    • Battery-powered remote is straightforward and on the slimmer side

    The TCL QM7L follows quite closely in the same mold as the QM8L. It has a center base that can be adjusted to different heights, but only during installation. It also has a removable backplate that comes off for cable management, just like the QM8L.

    The bezels on the TV are thin as is the TV itself, measuring 2.2 inches thick, not to mention it’s pretty light, weighing 39.70 lbs without a stand (43.90 lbs with a stand) for the 65-inch size. If you’re looking to mount your TV, I think the TCL QM7L’s physical size and weight make it ideal for doing so.

    While there is a good selection of ports — there are a couple USBs, an ethernet, optical, and RF input — this is one place where the cost cutting shows up, namely with the HDMI ports. Instead of having four 2.1 HDMI ports, which support 4K @ 120Hz, the TCL QM7L has two, with HDMI ports 3 and 4 being the slightly older 2.0 HDMI ports that are capped at a 60Hz refresh rate.

    The remote for the TCL QM7L is TCL’s standard battery-powered model, with streaming app hotkeys, a talk button, and the directional dial. It’s not quite as small as a Roku remote but it’s slim enough to feel comfortable to hold.

    • Design score: 4.5 / 5

    TCL QM7L review: Smart TV and Menus

    The TCL QM7L's Google TV home page shows a rotating banner of suggested content.

    The TCL QM7L's Google TV home page shows a rotating banner of suggested content. (Image credit: Future / James Holland)
    • Uses Google TV with a bias towards Google content
    • Plenty of free content through multiple streaming apps
    • Navigating the TV menu is straightforward and intuitive

    The TCL QM7L, like the other new TCL TVs that have come out in 2026, use Google TV as the interface. That means that the layout when using the TV is as follows: quick links at the top of the screen, a rotating banner of highlighted / sponsored content with a focus on Google-based apps, followed by rows of various types of more specific content, such as “Top Picks,” “Apps,” “Continue Watching,” and “Free Live TV” to name a few.

    Regarding that last one, there’s plenty of free content on offer through Google TV Freeplay, as well as TCLTV+ and plenty of it is mostly syndicated content. Thankfully, there’s plenty of decent stuff there, and not just bottom of the barrel ‘my neighbor is a chicken and is trying to kill me’ type schlock.

    Because this is a Google TV, there are a number of screens to go through for setup, meaning it's not quite plug-and-play — though this seems to be typical of every TV I come across these days. Still, the time required to get from turning on to watching something is probably about ten minutes. A lot of the prompts are regarding how to interface with Google Gemini and consenting to a more personalized experience — essentially whether you’re okay with the TV sending information back to Google about your watching habits… and possibly whatever it hears from you talking.

    Navigating the menu is pretty straightforward. Pressing the settings icon on the remote pulls up quick settings where there’s a link to see all the settings. Some TVs have the intelligent or AI based settings squirreled away into a separate category, but that’s not the case here and navigation is better for it. For instance, turning on “Dynamic Brightness,” which automatically adjusts the backlight according to what’s on the screen is listed with all the other brightness-related settings. Easy-peasy.

    • Smart TV & menus score: 4.5 / 5

    TCL QM7L review: Gaming

    TCL QM7L's game bar is active during a playthrough of Star Wars: Outlaws

    The game bar takes a couple presses to access, but is helpful during gaming sessions. (Image credit: Future / James Holland)
    • Up to 144Hz refresh rate
    • Gaming-specific features like AMD Freesync Premium Pro
    • Game bar on demand

    After spending some time gaming on the TCL QM7L, the only real limitations are directly related to the picture quality — the same limitations one experiences with any other content. The image is a little flatter than on the QM8L because of the more limited dimming zones, lower peak brightness, and more limited Dolby Vision.

    But if you’re not comparing this TV to more expensive TVs like the QM8L, it’s impressive. Maybe its HDR isn’t at the level of the QM8L or X11L, but it’s there and it still allows me to see detail in shadows — something that’s important in gaming. And, of course, the Halo Control allows a clear delineation between dark and light pixels that are right next to each other.

    I played a number of games through a Playstation 5 on this TV and, whether it was Madden ‘26 or Star Wars: Outlaw, the picture was sharp and the action was smooth. I didn’t experience any stuttering or jitters. And even when creeping in the shadows, I was also able to see everything on the screen clearly.

    After all, the TV's 144Hz refresh rate is more than enough for smooth, crisp motion handling during gaming. It also helps that the TCL QM7L comes with some features focused on frame rates. For instance, AMD Freesync Premium Pro is on hand to match the frame rates between the TV and the source, while the Game Accelerator 288 feature upscales the fps to twice the amount.

    And since two of the HDMI ports are of the 2.1 variety, they support 4K @ 120Hz passthrough, allowing you to make the most of current consoles like the Playstation 5 and Xbox Series X.

    I also appreciate how easy it is to pull up the Game Bar — the gaming-specific settings menu — just by holding down the hamburger button on the remote (the button with the three horizontal line icon). When pulled up, I could turn on a crosshair, adjust gaming-specific picture modes, and see an FPS counter.

    • Gaming score: 4.5 / 5

    TCL QM7L review: Value

    TCL QM7L TV showing its brightness with a scene from Coco

    The TCL QM7L TV showing its brightness with a scene from Coco. (Image credit: Future / James Holland)
    • Almost gets to flagship territory on a smaller budget
    • Cheaper alternatives don’t look or sound as good
    • Great option for those wanting an almost premium experience

    Whether you consider the TCL QM7L great value might depend on your own budget and what you’re looking for in a TV. In terms of TCL’s offerings though, it is a good deal. The step down from what the TCL QM8L offers is not significant for day-to-day use, unless you’re a stickler for a completely premium experience, yet you save about $500 when comparing the 65-inch sizes. The QM8L goes for $1,799, while the QM7L goes for $1,299.99 at that size.

    TCL does have more affordable TVs though, like the TCL QM6K (the review is for last year’s model, but this year’s only received a very minor update). And the QM6K has a lot to offer for those trying to keep under a thousand for a TV, with a 65-inch going for $999.99. But it’s much more limited than the TCL QM7L, most notably having worse audio quality and a lower peak brightness.

    If we look at the competition, something like the Hisense U7 — which goes for $699.99 for a 65-inch TV — hits a lot of the same beats. It’s a Google TV with hands-free control via Google Gemini. Its sound quality is pretty good for a TV and it has a fast refresh rate. But its screen isn’t quite as good.

    So what does this all mean? Basically, this TV is good value if you’re still trying to reach for a premium TV watching experience.

    • Value score: 4.5 / 5

    Attributes

    Notes

    Rating

    Features

    The TCL QM7L is feature-filled including the somewhat flawed Google Gemini, not to mention all the HDR and spatial audio support one could need.

    4 / 5

    Picture quality

    It might not have the depth of its more expensive siblings, but this TV looks very good thanks to a combination of good color coverage, Dolby Vision IQ, and TCL’s Halo Control System.

    4.5 / 5

    Sound quality

    The sound quality, provided by Bang & Olufsen, is good enough to skip getting a soundbar, though there’s not much low-end.

    4 / 5

    Design

    There’s little to find fault with this TV with the highlights being an adjustable center stand, two HDMI 2.1 ports, and thin bezels.

    4.5 / 5

    Smart TV and menus

    Using Google TV as an interface, this TV is intuitive to use with plenty of free content. Just be aware that its suggestions are going to be biased toward Google-hosted content.

    4.5 / 5

    Gaming

    Between the 144Hz refresh rate, AMD Freesync Premium Pro, and Game Bar, this TV has all the makings of a great TV for gaming.

    4.5 / 5

    Value

    While the TCL QM7L isn’t cheap, it offers great value, especially compared to the more premium TVs it almost reaches in terms of performance and features.

    4.5 / 5

    Should I buy the TCL QM7L?

    Buy it if...

    You want an almost premium TV at mid-range prices
    The TCL QM7L is, experientially, not that far below the QM8L, (which itself is a step below the flagship X11L), but it’s quite a bit cheaper. Ideal if you want to upgrade but are trying to stay closer to mid-range prices.

    You care about blooming
    This is common across TCL’s mid-range and premium TVs, but this TV does a great job of minimizing blooming — something you invariably get to some degree with brighter mini-LED TVs.

    You’re a gamer
    Whether it’s the almost premium screen, 144Hz refresh rate, 2.1 HDMI ports, Game Bar, or AMD Freesync Premium Pro, this TV has all the bonafides for a great gaming experience.

    Don't buy it if…

    You want the best
    This TV is great, but it’s two steps below TCL’s finest and, if you really have that attention to detail, you might notice the lower (but still great) quality picture.

    You expect a lot out of hands-free control
    Google Gemini has a lot of good to it, but it’s an imperfect voice assistant, which makes its hands-free control an exercise in frustration, especially if you need it due to an impairment.

    TCL QM7L review: also consider

    TCL QM7L

    Roku Pro Series (2025)

    TCL QM6K

    TCL QM8L

    Price (65-inch)

    $1,299.99

    $899.99

    $999.99

    $1,799

    Screen type

    SQD Mini-LED

    QLED

    Mini-LED

    SQD-Mini LED

    Refresh rate

    144Hz

    120Hz

    144Hz

    144Hz

    HDR support

    HDR10, HDR10+, HLG, Dolby Vision IQ

    Dolby Vision IQ, HDR10+ Adaptive, HLG

    Dolby Vision IQ, HDR10+, HDR10, HLG

    HDR10, HDR10+, HLG, Dolby Vision IQ

    Smart TV

    Google TV

    Roku

    Google TV

    Google TV

    HDMI ports

    4 (1 eARC, 2x HDMI 2.1 @144Hz, 2x HDMI 2.0 @60Hz)

    4 (2x HDMI 2.1)

    4 (2x HDMI 2.1)

    4x HDMI 2.1

    Roku Pro Series (2025)
    The Roku Pro Series (2025) is a little more expensive, but comes with a lot of the same features, has a similarly fast refresh rate for gamers (though no game bar), and has a unique shadowbox design that makes it sit flush on the wall when mounted, making it the better TV for that situation. Read our full Roku Pro Series (2025) review.

    TCL QM6K
    The TCL QM6K is just as good value if you’re looking for a mid-range TV for almost budget prices. Of course, this means it’s about a level down in every regard, particularly the audio, but it still has a relatively great picture quality with vibrant colors, good contrast, and a lack of blooming. Read our full TCL QM6K review.

    TCL QM8L
    The TCL QM8L is only a tiny bit better a TV than the TCL QM7L while being a just a bit more expensive, thanks to a better screen with higher brightness and more local dimming zones. It might otherwise be functionally the same TV, but it does come with Dolby Vision Max. Read our full TCL QM8L review.

    How I tested the TCL QM7L

    • I used the TCL QM7L for a couple weeks
    • Tested with both TV, movies, music, and games

    I used the TCL QM7L SQD MiniLED TV regularly for a couple weeks. I tested it using streaming shows, movies, music, and games (via PS5). I went through the various features, particularly the hands-free Google Gemini, to see if it work as advertised. I also spent time listening to the audio, as well as paying attention to the picture quality.

    After spending some time with this TV, it’s my humble opinion that this TV is ideal for those who are looking for a premium TV but want to pay closer to mid-range prices.

    I’ve tested a lot of tech gear over the years, from laptops through keyboards to speakers, and so have been able to use my expertise towards giving an honest and fair opinion, not to mention a critical eye, to any product I test.

    ]]>     https://www.techradar.com/televisions/an-almost-premium-tv-at-mid-range-prices-tcls-qm7l-mini-led-screen-is-one-of-the-best-affordable-sets-ive-tested-thanks-to-its-vibrant-colors-bright-highlights-and-great-gaming-features 2jujdjSowgjvZ9LH5NZ9Lk Fri, 02 Oct 2026 23:00:00 +0000 false false false

    TCL QM7L: Two-minute review

    The TCL QM7L is difficult to review. Largely because it’s basically the same TV as the TCL QM8L we recently reviewed but at a cheaper price point with fewer dimming zones and lower peak brightness. Outside of that and the fact that it has a more limited version of Dolby Vision, it’s functionally the same.

    If you were to put the two TVs side by side, you would probably be tempted to go for the TCL QM8L and shell out over the extra five hundred bucks, assuming you’re going for the 65-inch size.

    But that is a lot of money and the differences are minor enough that I think the TCL QM7L is one of the best TVs in terms of value, especially if you still want a somewhat premium experience. There are plenty of decent TVs under a grand, of course, but this TV is a step above those.

    Despite the lower specs compared to some of TCL’s other offerings, the TCL QM7L is still impressive with up to 2,100 local dimming zones, up to 3,000 nits at peak brightness, TCL’s anti-halo and color enhancing tech, and AI features such as the imperfect generative voice assistant in Google Gemini. The sound is still provided by Bang & Olufsen and the refresh rate (and passthrough from HDMI ports) is high enough that it will make for one of the best gaming TVs for those trying to strike a balance between premium performance and price.

    TCL QM7L review: Price and release date

    The TCL QM7L showcasing its color coverage with a scene from Coco

    The TCL QM7L showcasing its color coverage with a scene from Coco. (Image credit: Future / James Holland)
    • Release date: April 2026
    • 55-inch: $999.99
    • 65-inch: $1,299.99
    • 75-inch: $1,499.99
    • 85-inch: $1,999.99
    • 100-inch: $2,999.99

    The TCL QM7L is an exercise in value. To be clear, there are many cheaper options available from TCL, even mid-range offerings such as the TCL QM6K, but this TV inches a little closer to premium flagship territory but with a still somewhat comfortable price tag.

    Released at the same time as the TCL QM8L and TCL X11L (April 2026), the TCL QM7L hits a lower price point with a range starting at $999.99 for its smallest size (55-inch) and ending at $2,999.99 for its biggest (100-inch). If you want something on that smaller 55-inch end, the TCL QM7L is the only way to go, as the TCL QM8L and TCL X11L aren’t available in that size.

    TCL QM7L review: Specs

    Screen type

    SQD Mini-LED

    Refresh rate

    144Hz

    HDR support

    HDR10, HDR10+, HLG, Dolby Vision IQ

    Audio support

    Dolby Atmos, Dolby Digital, DTS:X

    Smart TV

    Google TV

    HDMI ports

    4 (1 eARC, 2x HDMI 2.1 @144Hz, 2x HDMI 2.0 @60Hz)

    Built-in tuner

    ATSC 3.0

    TCL QM7L review: Benchmark results

    1 / 4

    Brightness measurements

    TCL QM7L
    HDR Filmmaker Mode (10% window)
    2270
    HDR Filmmaker Mode (Fullscreen)
    723
    TCL QM8L
    HDR Filmmaker Mode (10% window)
    3719
    HDR Filmmaker Mode (Fullscreen)
    759
    Roku Pro Series (2025)
    HDR Filmmaker Mode (10% window)
    820
    HDR Filmmaker Mode (Fullscreen)
    373
    01,0002,0003,0004,000
    nits
    HDR Filmmaker Data
    ProductHDR Filmmaker Mode (10% window) (nits)HDR Filmmaker Mode (Fullscreen) (nits)
    TCL QM7L2270723
    TCL QM8L3719759
    Roku Pro Series (2025)820373

    TCL QM7L review: Features

    The TCL QM7L TV showcases its Halo Control via a scene from the movie Soul

    The TCL QM7L TV showcases its Halo Control via a scene from the movie Soul. (Image credit: Future / James Holland)
    • Has Dolby Vision IQ
    • Google Gemini is useful but flawed
    • Uses proprietary Halo Control System for anti-blooming

    The TCL QM7L is fully featured with support for HDR and spatial audio, as well as the ability to adjust screen brightness according to ambient light, aka Dolby Vision IQ. While not as powerful as Dolby Vision 2 Max, which adjusts colors on a much deeper level, it still does a great job in making things easier to see whether you’re in a dark room or sunnier room like where I had this TV set up. Even with glare from the outside or light fixtures, I’m still able to make out everything that’s happening on the screen.

    Also worth mentioning here is the use of Google Gemini. It’s implemented the same way as I’ve experienced on every other Google TV. It’s informative, conversational (with a nice range of different voice timbres), and almost well executed. Like most learning language models right now, which it is, it’s flawed in the information it pulls up as I’ve come across a few mistakes including where to stream certain content (this won’t be an issue if you’re pulling up something well known like a Disney movie). I also don’t like the fact that I can talk to it and it will respond to commands, but I can’t get it to open and play content.

    At least the TCL QM7L still utilizes the brand’s Halo Control System for limiting blooming and Deep Color System for a wider range of colors.

    • Features Score: 4 / 5

    TCL QM7L review: Picture Quality

    TCL QM7L showing its detail and motion handling via a scene from The Batman

    TCL QM7L showing its detail and motion handling via a scene from The Batman. (Image credit: Future / James Holland)
    • Screen almost as good as more expensive models
    • Good control of blooming
    • Image quality is very good, but just lacks a little depth

    The TCL QM7L is basically a slightly worse version than the QM8L, which, in turn, is a slightly worse version of the X11L. But, let me be clear, that doesn’t make it bad. The differences are much less noticeable if you can’t A/B(/C) these TVs, while the price difference is fairly substantial.

    To look at the TCL QM7L specifically, a TV that offers up to 2,100 local dimming zones (TCL doesn’t publish the local dimming zones per size), up to 3,000 peak nits of brightness, and TCL’s anti-halo and color enhancing tech, it looks pretty good on paper. Its color accuracy has a Delta E of 2.6, which is on par with other mid-range premium-ish TVs (closer to zero is better). Similarly, its P3 color coverage of 95% is also in the same range as the TCL QM8L, X11L, and Hisense U7. The LG C5 is 99% (100% is best) P3 color coverage for comparison.

    Where the TCL QM7L’s lower price tag shows up in terms of picture quality is in brightness and luminance. Its SDR peak of 463.3909 nits in standard mode is about 9% less bright than the QM8L. Its luminance benchmark is likewise just a little lower.

    In terms of peak HDR brightness, the QM7L's peaks of 2,270 nits and 2,419 nits HDR brightness (in Filmmaker and Standard respectively) are much lower than the QM8L's (which registered 3,719 and 3,771 in the same Filmmaker and Standard modes), but still very good for a TV in this price range.

    Benchmarks don’t necessarily always tell the story, but they line up with what my experience has been using the TCL QM7L. Namely, that the picture quality is 97% of what one gets with the QM8L.

    Whether I was watching a TV show or a movie with lots of vibrant colors or even a YouTube video, the image was sharp with great motion clarity. Thanks to TCL’s Halo Control System, any kind of blooming or halo effect was kept at bay. A rewatch of Soul helped confirm that, particularly the scene where the main character, Joe Gardner, first wakes up in the afterlife as an illuminated human-shaped blob on a mostly black background. With TVs that experience serious blooming, you can see a whole cloud around him where you really shouldn’t. And here, it’s barely discernable.

    The colors look great as well. Coco also got a rewatch (I have some go-to’s for certain testing if that’s not clear) and all the vibrant colors depicted in the land of the dead have the vibrancy one would want to see when watching a movie from this.

    And The Batman made for a good showcase of the TCL QM7L’s clarity during busy scenes with a lot of motion. I like to use the Penguin chase scene for testing since it’s raining the whole time, there's some shaky cam, and an explosion as well as all the actual chasing. Everything came through clearly on this TV — I even felt like I could see the rain clearly. You could pause at any moment and have a snapshot clear enough to use a screenshot for this article.

    Because of all the HDR support, I feel like I can see details in shadows. But this TV has a more limited Dolby Vision (Dolby Vision IQ vs Dolby Vision 2 Max) than its more expensive siblings. I think between that and the slightly lower brightness, the image this TV gives just feels a little flatter than the QM8L. It’s almost as good, and, in a vacuum, it would be hard to find fault with this TV. But those various slight limitations keep the screen from having quite the depth of better (and more expensive) TVs.

    • Picture quality score: 4.5 / 5

    TCL QM7L review: Sound Quality

    The TCL QM7L has dedicated drivers in the back for a fuller audio experience.

    The TCL QM7L has dedicated drivers in the back for a fuller audio experience. (Image credit: Future / James Holland)
    • Detailed high-end and full mid-range good enough to skip soundbar
    • Not a lot of low-end and has narrow soundstage
    • Limited amount of settings for finetuning

    Most people focus on picture quality and how it improves from budget to mid-range TVs and beyond — and they should! But probably what I enjoy most when leveling up is not the improved HDR response, brightness, and color accuracy, but using a TV with sound quality good enough to skip a soundbar.

    On the TCL QM7L, the sound quality is much the same as on the TCL QM8L, insofar that it’s tuned by Bang & Olufsen and the mid-range is not hollowed out like it is on cheaper TVs. Budget rivals always seem to sound thin like there’s no mid-range and shrill as if the highs have been boosted to make up for that. I might be exaggerating there, but not by much.

    Now, there’s not much in the way of low-end, especially in the sub-bass region. So if you want that wall-shaking home theater experience, you’ll still need an external audio system capable of providing that. The same goes for any surround sound or spatial audio, though the TV does support all the necessary formats for one to experience them through an attached external system. I will say that there’s no internal virtualized spatial audio, which the TCL QM8L does have.

    Outside of that, the mid-range has plenty of presence so that dialog is easy to hear and the sound is fairly balanced, though I do find it a slightly too mid-forward for a TV. On top of this, there's a dialog mode that works decently at boosting the specific mid-range frequencies for those who might be a little hard of hearing.

    The high-end offers good clarity so that I can hear the detail in violins and such in instrumental scores playing during a dramatic scene in a movie — or British police procedural as plenty of that has been played on this TV.

    I will say that the soundstage is a bit narrow — something I didn’t expect on a 75-inch TV. So while I do hear some side-to-side movement in audio tests like those on YouTube or a scene from Top Gun: Maverick where I should hear planes whizzing by, it’s not as wide as it should be. Like the lack of low-end, this doesn’t really take away from the enjoyment of the audio here, but does hamper its immersiveness.

    As far as audio adjustments go, the sound settings menu is pretty minimal with just a treble and bass slider as a loudness setting, a few audio modes (Movie, Sports, Game, etc.), and a toggle for whether the TV is mounted or on stands. I do appreciate that Bang & Olufsen’s unique EQ wheel is available here for some more fine-tuning, though I would have preferred a five, seven, or even ten-band EQ instead.

    • Sound quality score: 4 / 5

    TCL QM7L review: Design

    The TCL QM7L has four 2.1 HDMI ports.

    The TCL QM7L has four 2.1 HDMI ports. (Image credit: Future / James Holland)
    • Adjustable center base with cable management
    • Two HDMI 2.1 ports
    • Battery-powered remote is straightforward and on the slimmer side

    The TCL QM7L follows quite closely in the same mold as the QM8L. It has a center base that can be adjusted to different heights, but only during installation. It also has a removable backplate that comes off for cable management, just like the QM8L.

    The bezels on the TV are thin as is the TV itself, measuring 2.2 inches thick, not to mention it’s pretty light, weighing 39.70 lbs without a stand (43.90 lbs with a stand) for the 65-inch size. If you’re looking to mount your TV, I think the TCL QM7L’s physical size and weight make it ideal for doing so.

    While there is a good selection of ports — there are a couple USBs, an ethernet, optical, and RF input — this is one place where the cost cutting shows up, namely with the HDMI ports. Instead of having four 2.1 HDMI ports, which support 4K @ 120Hz, the TCL QM7L has two, with HDMI ports 3 and 4 being the slightly older 2.0 HDMI ports that are capped at a 60Hz refresh rate.

    The remote for the TCL QM7L is TCL’s standard battery-powered model, with streaming app hotkeys, a talk button, and the directional dial. It’s not quite as small as a Roku remote but it’s slim enough to feel comfortable to hold.

    • Design score: 4.5 / 5

    TCL QM7L review: Smart TV and Menus

    The TCL QM7L's Google TV home page shows a rotating banner of suggested content.

    The TCL QM7L's Google TV home page shows a rotating banner of suggested content. (Image credit: Future / James Holland)
    • Uses Google TV with a bias towards Google content
    • Plenty of free content through multiple streaming apps
    • Navigating the TV menu is straightforward and intuitive

    The TCL QM7L, like the other new TCL TVs that have come out in 2026, use Google TV as the interface. That means that the layout when using the TV is as follows: quick links at the top of the screen, a rotating banner of highlighted / sponsored content with a focus on Google-based apps, followed by rows of various types of more specific content, such as “Top Picks,” “Apps,” “Continue Watching,” and “Free Live TV” to name a few.

    Regarding that last one, there’s plenty of free content on offer through Google TV Freeplay, as well as TCLTV+ and plenty of it is mostly syndicated content. Thankfully, there’s plenty of decent stuff there, and not just bottom of the barrel ‘my neighbor is a chicken and is trying to kill me’ type schlock.

    Because this is a Google TV, there are a number of screens to go through for setup, meaning it's not quite plug-and-play — though this seems to be typical of every TV I come across these days. Still, the time required to get from turning on to watching something is probably about ten minutes. A lot of the prompts are regarding how to interface with Google Gemini and consenting to a more personalized experience — essentially whether you’re okay with the TV sending information back to Google about your watching habits… and possibly whatever it hears from you talking.

    Navigating the menu is pretty straightforward. Pressing the settings icon on the remote pulls up quick settings where there’s a link to see all the settings. Some TVs have the intelligent or AI based settings squirreled away into a separate category, but that’s not the case here and navigation is better for it. For instance, turning on “Dynamic Brightness,” which automatically adjusts the backlight according to what’s on the screen is listed with all the other brightness-related settings. Easy-peasy.

    • Smart TV & menus score: 4.5 / 5

    TCL QM7L review: Gaming

    TCL QM7L's game bar is active during a playthrough of Star Wars: Outlaws

    The game bar takes a couple presses to access, but is helpful during gaming sessions. (Image credit: Future / James Holland)
    • Up to 144Hz refresh rate
    • Gaming-specific features like AMD Freesync Premium Pro
    • Game bar on demand

    After spending some time gaming on the TCL QM7L, the only real limitations are directly related to the picture quality — the same limitations one experiences with any other content. The image is a little flatter than on the QM8L because of the more limited dimming zones, lower peak brightness, and more limited Dolby Vision.

    But if you’re not comparing this TV to more expensive TVs like the QM8L, it’s impressive. Maybe its HDR isn’t at the level of the QM8L or X11L, but it’s there and it still allows me to see detail in shadows — something that’s important in gaming. And, of course, the Halo Control allows a clear delineation between dark and light pixels that are right next to each other.

    I played a number of games through a Playstation 5 on this TV and, whether it was Madden ‘26 or Star Wars: Outlaw, the picture was sharp and the action was smooth. I didn’t experience any stuttering or jitters. And even when creeping in the shadows, I was also able to see everything on the screen clearly.

    After all, the TV's 144Hz refresh rate is more than enough for smooth, crisp motion handling during gaming. It also helps that the TCL QM7L comes with some features focused on frame rates. For instance, AMD Freesync Premium Pro is on hand to match the frame rates between the TV and the source, while the Game Accelerator 288 feature upscales the fps to twice the amount.

    And since two of the HDMI ports are of the 2.1 variety, they support 4K @ 120Hz passthrough, allowing you to make the most of current consoles like the Playstation 5 and Xbox Series X.

    I also appreciate how easy it is to pull up the Game Bar — the gaming-specific settings menu — just by holding down the hamburger button on the remote (the button with the three horizontal line icon). When pulled up, I could turn on a crosshair, adjust gaming-specific picture modes, and see an FPS counter.

    • Gaming score: 4.5 / 5

    TCL QM7L review: Value

    TCL QM7L TV showing its brightness with a scene from Coco

    The TCL QM7L TV showing its brightness with a scene from Coco. (Image credit: Future / James Holland)
    • Almost gets to flagship territory on a smaller budget
    • Cheaper alternatives don’t look or sound as good
    • Great option for those wanting an almost premium experience

    Whether you consider the TCL QM7L great value might depend on your own budget and what you’re looking for in a TV. In terms of TCL’s offerings though, it is a good deal. The step down from what the TCL QM8L offers is not significant for day-to-day use, unless you’re a stickler for a completely premium experience, yet you save about $500 when comparing the 65-inch sizes. The QM8L goes for $1,799, while the QM7L goes for $1,299.99 at that size.

    TCL does have more affordable TVs though, like the TCL QM6K (the review is for last year’s model, but this year’s only received a very minor update). And the QM6K has a lot to offer for those trying to keep under a thousand for a TV, with a 65-inch going for $999.99. But it’s much more limited than the TCL QM7L, most notably having worse audio quality and a lower peak brightness.

    If we look at the competition, something like the Hisense U7 — which goes for $699.99 for a 65-inch TV — hits a lot of the same beats. It’s a Google TV with hands-free control via Google Gemini. Its sound quality is pretty good for a TV and it has a fast refresh rate. But its screen isn’t quite as good.

    So what does this all mean? Basically, this TV is good value if you’re still trying to reach for a premium TV watching experience.

    • Value score: 4.5 / 5

    Attributes

    Notes

    Rating

    Features

    The TCL QM7L is feature-filled including the somewhat flawed Google Gemini, not to mention all the HDR and spatial audio support one could need.

    4 / 5

    Picture quality

    It might not have the depth of its more expensive siblings, but this TV looks very good thanks to a combination of good color coverage, Dolby Vision IQ, and TCL’s Halo Control System.

    4.5 / 5

    Sound quality

    The sound quality, provided by Bang & Olufsen, is good enough to skip getting a soundbar, though there’s not much low-end.

    4 / 5

    Design

    There’s little to find fault with this TV with the highlights being an adjustable center stand, two HDMI 2.1 ports, and thin bezels.

    4.5 / 5

    Smart TV and menus

    Using Google TV as an interface, this TV is intuitive to use with plenty of free content. Just be aware that its suggestions are going to be biased toward Google-hosted content.

    4.5 / 5

    Gaming

    Between the 144Hz refresh rate, AMD Freesync Premium Pro, and Game Bar, this TV has all the makings of a great TV for gaming.

    4.5 / 5

    Value

    While the TCL QM7L isn’t cheap, it offers great value, especially compared to the more premium TVs it almost reaches in terms of performance and features.

    4.5 / 5

    Should I buy the TCL QM7L?

    Buy it if...

    You want an almost premium TV at mid-range prices
    The TCL QM7L is, experientially, not that far below the QM8L, (which itself is a step below the flagship X11L), but it’s quite a bit cheaper. Ideal if you want to upgrade but are trying to stay closer to mid-range prices.

    You care about blooming
    This is common across TCL’s mid-range and premium TVs, but this TV does a great job of minimizing blooming — something you invariably get to some degree with brighter mini-LED TVs.

    You’re a gamer
    Whether it’s the almost premium screen, 144Hz refresh rate, 2.1 HDMI ports, Game Bar, or AMD Freesync Premium Pro, this TV has all the bonafides for a great gaming experience.

    Don't buy it if…

    You want the best
    This TV is great, but it’s two steps below TCL’s finest and, if you really have that attention to detail, you might notice the lower (but still great) quality picture.

    You expect a lot out of hands-free control
    Google Gemini has a lot of good to it, but it’s an imperfect voice assistant, which makes its hands-free control an exercise in frustration, especially if you need it due to an impairment.

    TCL QM7L review: also consider

    TCL QM7L

    Roku Pro Series (2025)

    TCL QM6K

    TCL QM8L

    Price (65-inch)

    $1,299.99

    $899.99

    $999.99

    $1,799

    Screen type

    SQD Mini-LED

    QLED

    Mini-LED

    SQD-Mini LED

    Refresh rate

    144Hz

    120Hz

    144Hz

    144Hz

    HDR support

    HDR10, HDR10+, HLG, Dolby Vision IQ

    Dolby Vision IQ, HDR10+ Adaptive, HLG

    Dolby Vision IQ, HDR10+, HDR10, HLG

    HDR10, HDR10+, HLG, Dolby Vision IQ

    Smart TV

    Google TV

    Roku

    Google TV

    Google TV

    HDMI ports

    4 (1 eARC, 2x HDMI 2.1 @144Hz, 2x HDMI 2.0 @60Hz)

    4 (2x HDMI 2.1)

    4 (2x HDMI 2.1)

    4x HDMI 2.1

    Roku Pro Series (2025)
    The Roku Pro Series (2025) is a little more expensive, but comes with a lot of the same features, has a similarly fast refresh rate for gamers (though no game bar), and has a unique shadowbox design that makes it sit flush on the wall when mounted, making it the better TV for that situation. Read our full Roku Pro Series (2025) review.

    TCL QM6K
    The TCL QM6K is just as good value if you’re looking for a mid-range TV for almost budget prices. Of course, this means it’s about a level down in every regard, particularly the audio, but it still has a relatively great picture quality with vibrant colors, good contrast, and a lack of blooming. Read our full TCL QM6K review.

    TCL QM8L
    The TCL QM8L is only a tiny bit better a TV than the TCL QM7L while being a just a bit more expensive, thanks to a better screen with higher brightness and more local dimming zones. It might otherwise be functionally the same TV, but it does come with Dolby Vision Max. Read our full TCL QM8L review.

    How I tested the TCL QM7L

    • I used the TCL QM7L for a couple weeks
    • Tested with both TV, movies, music, and games

    I used the TCL QM7L SQD MiniLED TV regularly for a couple weeks. I tested it using streaming shows, movies, music, and games (via PS5). I went through the various features, particularly the hands-free Google Gemini, to see if it work as advertised. I also spent time listening to the audio, as well as paying attention to the picture quality.

    After spending some time with this TV, it’s my humble opinion that this TV is ideal for those who are looking for a premium TV but want to pay closer to mid-range prices.

    I’ve tested a lot of tech gear over the years, from laptops through keyboards to speakers, and so have been able to use my expertise towards giving an honest and fair opinion, not to mention a critical eye, to any product I test.

    ]]>     <![CDATA[ Minisforum's AMD Ryzen AI Max+ PRO 495 workstation will cost more than $9,200, but you can get it for under $7,400 on preorder for a limited time ]]>
  • Minisforum is selling its 192GB Ryzen AI MS-S1 MAX-P495 workstation for $7,399
  • The workstation combines AMD’s 16-core Ryzen AI Max+ PRO 495 with 192GB memory
  • Its 192GB configuration includes 2TB storage and LPDDR5x memory

    • Gorgon Halo systems are starting to reach the market, with Minisforum entering the segment through its MS-S1 MAX-P495 workstation.

    The company is offering the 192GB memory and 2TB storage configuration for $7,399 during a limited promotion, against its regular $9,249 price.

    Other recently announced Gorgon Halo devices include HP’s ZBook Ultra G3a at a calculated $7,449, while GMKtec’s EVO-X5 Pro mini PC sells for $6,399 under its Super Early Bird promotion.

    Ryzen AI Max+ PRO 495 drives the workstation

    The MS-S1 MAX-P495 uses AMD’s Ryzen AI Max+ PRO 495 processor, combining 16 Zen 5 cores and 32 threads with maximum speeds reaching 5.2GHz.

    The device pairs 192GB of LPDDR5x memory running at 8,533MT/s with a 2TB solid-state drive for local workloads.

    Its graphics subsystem uses Radeon 8065S graphics based on RDNA 3.5, while an integrated NPU provides dedicated acceleration for artificial intelligence workloads.

    Minisforum says the platform delivers up to 131 TOPS of combined AI performance, of which the NPU accounts for up to 55 TOPS.

    The company also says two 192GB systems can operate together as a compact AI cluster, with Qwen3.5 397B reportedly reaching 16 tokens per second locally.

    Connectivity includes USB4, dual 10GbE networking and Wi-Fi 7, giving the workstation several high-speed options for external devices and networked systems.

    Expansion, storage and cooling

    The MS-S1 MAX-P495 includes a PCIe x16 slot alongside two M.2 slots, allowing additional storage and expansion hardware within the compact chassis.

    Storage configurations can support RAID 0 or RAID 1, giving users options for prioritizing throughput or maintaining mirrored data across compatible drives.

    The front panel provides USB connectivity, two USB4 ports with DisplayPort support and power delivery, plus a combined 3.5mm audio connection.

    Minisforum also includes a built-in microphone system designed for noise reduction, while four operating modes adjust the machine for different usage conditions - Performance, Balance, Quiet and Rack modes allow users to alter system behaviour, with the latter intended for deployment where rack integration is required.

    The cooling design combines copper components, dual fans and phase-change material, with the system capable of handling power consumption reaching 160W.

    A 320W power supply accompanies the workstation, while the chassis can operate horizontally or vertically depending on available installation space.

    The internal layout uses a removable board tray, while a cascade power-on connection allows multiple systems to coordinate their startup sequence.

    Minisforum estimates that shipments will begin around mid-October 2026 in the US, while the $7,399 promotional price applies only during the unspecified preorder period.

    Google logo on a black background next to text reading 'Click to follow TechRadar'

    ]]>     https://www.techradar.com/pro/minisforums-amd-ryzen-ai-max-pro-495-workstation-will-cost-more-than-usd9-200-but-you-can-get-it-for-under-usd7-400-on-preorder-for-a-limited-time AoBP8RDQ8Hamen6txd9Tx7 Fri, 02 Oct 2026 22:05:00 +0000 false false false
    • Minisforum is selling its 192GB Ryzen AI MS-S1 MAX-P495 workstation for $7,399
    • The workstation combines AMD’s 16-core Ryzen AI Max+ PRO 495 with 192GB memory
    • Its 192GB configuration includes 2TB storage and LPDDR5x memory

    Gorgon Halo systems are starting to reach the market, with Minisforum entering the segment through its MS-S1 MAX-P495 workstation.

    The company is offering the 192GB memory and 2TB storage configuration for $7,399 during a limited promotion, against its regular $9,249 price.

    Other recently announced Gorgon Halo devices include HP’s ZBook Ultra G3a at a calculated $7,449, while GMKtec’s EVO-X5 Pro mini PC sells for $6,399 under its Super Early Bird promotion.

    Ryzen AI Max+ PRO 495 drives the workstation

    The MS-S1 MAX-P495 uses AMD’s Ryzen AI Max+ PRO 495 processor, combining 16 Zen 5 cores and 32 threads with maximum speeds reaching 5.2GHz.

    The device pairs 192GB of LPDDR5x memory running at 8,533MT/s with a 2TB solid-state drive for local workloads.

    Its graphics subsystem uses Radeon 8065S graphics based on RDNA 3.5, while an integrated NPU provides dedicated acceleration for artificial intelligence workloads.

    Minisforum says the platform delivers up to 131 TOPS of combined AI performance, of which the NPU accounts for up to 55 TOPS.

    The company also says two 192GB systems can operate together as a compact AI cluster, with Qwen3.5 397B reportedly reaching 16 tokens per second locally.

    Connectivity includes USB4, dual 10GbE networking and Wi-Fi 7, giving the workstation several high-speed options for external devices and networked systems.

    Expansion, storage and cooling

    The MS-S1 MAX-P495 includes a PCIe x16 slot alongside two M.2 slots, allowing additional storage and expansion hardware within the compact chassis.

    Storage configurations can support RAID 0 or RAID 1, giving users options for prioritizing throughput or maintaining mirrored data across compatible drives.

    The front panel provides USB connectivity, two USB4 ports with DisplayPort support and power delivery, plus a combined 3.5mm audio connection.

    Minisforum also includes a built-in microphone system designed for noise reduction, while four operating modes adjust the machine for different usage conditions - Performance, Balance, Quiet and Rack modes allow users to alter system behaviour, with the latter intended for deployment where rack integration is required.

    The cooling design combines copper components, dual fans and phase-change material, with the system capable of handling power consumption reaching 160W.

    A 320W power supply accompanies the workstation, while the chassis can operate horizontally or vertically depending on available installation space.

    The internal layout uses a removable board tray, while a cascade power-on connection allows multiple systems to coordinate their startup sequence.

    Minisforum estimates that shipments will begin around mid-October 2026 in the US, while the $7,399 promotional price applies only during the unspecified preorder period.

    Google logo on a black background next to text reading 'Click to follow TechRadar'

    ]]>