News
Fact-based reporting on products, systems, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence and games.

Windows restricts folder customizations from untrusted locations
Microsoft is ignoring some folder customizations from untrusted sources, a security hardening change that may look like a bug to users.

June Windows 11 Insider builds focus on usability and accessibility
Recent Windows 11 Insider builds point to incremental improvements in accessibility, File Explorer, search and update management.

Nvidia’s RTX Spark platform puts pressure on PCIe 6.0 SSD roadmaps
AI-focused PC platforms are starting to influence PCIe 6.0 SSD planning, with Nvidia emerging as a relevant force behind bandwidth demand.

Report points to possible Intel return to DDR4 systems with Raptor Lake Next
A report suggests Intel may extend the life of the LGA 1700 platform with Raptor Lake Next chips and DDR4 support in 2027.

Google DeepMind outlines control roadmap for more autonomous AI agents
Google DeepMind is framing autonomous AI agents through a layered control model that borrows ideas from cybersecurity and risk containment.

Analysis: AI PCs shift the bottleneck toward memory and storage
The evolution of AI PCs shows that local performance depends on more than accelerators: memory, storage and security will shape the experience.

White House Aims to Integrate Anthropic Mythos AI Across US Agencies
The Biden administration is making efforts to incorporate Anthropic's Mythos AI technology within various federal agencies, enhancing operational efficiency and decision-making capabilities.

Two U.S. Citizens Sentenced for Assisting North Korea in $5 Million IT Scam
The U.S. Justice Department has sentenced two Americans to prison for their involvement in a scheme that aided the North Korean government in placing fictitious IT workers within U.S. companies, resulting in a theft of $5 million.

Teenage Engineering Expands Horizons with New KO-Amp 35
Teenage Engineering is possibly venturing into the instrument amplifier market with the upcoming KO-Amp 35. This new device, spotted in FCC filings, indicates a blend of portability and connectivity features.

Smart Plug Guide (2026): Best Use Cases and Considerations
Smart plugs offer valuable functionality for controlling electrical outlets, but they may not be suitable for every situation. This guide highlights when to utilize smart plugs and provides recommendations for the best products.

OpenAI Launches Mercury: A Novel AI Model for Drug Discovery to Compete with Google
OpenAI has unveiled a new AI model named Mercury, designed specifically for drug discovery, as part of its effort to demonstrate the practical applications of its technology for business. This initiative reflects the organization's commitment to advancing its offerings in the competitive landscape dominated by Google.

OpenAI Enhances Codex with Major Update Targeting Anthropic's Claude Code
OpenAI has released a significant update to its Codex system, now allowing it to manage desktop applications, generate images, and leverage past experiences. These enhancements position Codex as a more robust tool for developers and users alike.

New Xbox Leader Asha Sharma Begins Strategic Transformations
Asha Sharma, the new head of Xbox, is actively engaging with publishers and Microsoft studios as she plans the future of Xbox. Key focus areas include potential changes to Game Pass pricing, promising an invigorated direction for the gaming division.

Microsoft Set to Introduce Surface Laptop Featuring OLED Display
Microsoft is gearing up to unveil new versions of its Surface Laptop and Surface Pro, expected to include both Intel and Qualcomm processors. This year marks the introduction of an OLED display option for the Surface Laptop, a significant upgrade over previous models.

LG Sound Suite Review: Powerful Audio Experience for Spacious Areas
The LG Sound Suite offers a Dolby Atmos soundbar setup that competes with leading brands like Samsung and Sonos, making it an excellent choice for larger rooms.

Launch of Europe’s Anonymous Age Verification Application
A new free app aimed at age verification has been launched in Europe, pressuring adult sites and social media platforms to restrict minors' access. The app ensures complete anonymity for users.

Introducing Also's Innovative E-Bike: A New Approach to Cycling Dynamics
Also, a new e-bike startup, is revolutionizing cycling by disconnecting the traditional relationship between pedaling and wheel movement. Their e-bike features a generator-driven system that translates pedaling into motor power, offering a novel riding experience regulated by sophisticated software.

Google Enhances AI Mode in Chrome to Reduce Tab Switching
The recent update to Chrome's AI Mode aims to provide a more streamlined search experience by keeping the chatbot accessible throughout the user's online search activities.

Europol Reaches Out to 75,000 to Combat DDoS Attacks
In a significant effort to curb for-hire distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) attacks, Europol has contacted 75,000 individuals, urging them to cease their activities. The operation also resulted in four arrests and the shutdown of 53 online domains.

Combating Deepfakes Requires Creating Deepfakes
To effectively counteract deepfakes, one approach involves producing deepfakes ourselves. A personal experiment revealed the challenges of voice imitation technology, underscoring its limitations in casual conversation.

Casely Issues New Recall for Power Bank After Fatal Incident
Casely has reissued a recall for its 5,000mAh Power Pods wireless power banks connecting to safety issues, including a fatality. Originally recalled in 2025, the power banks have been linked to overheating and serious incidents, prompting urgent consumer action.

Bluesky Faces Technical Issues and Service Interruptions
Bluesky users are experiencing service interruptions that began early this morning. Technical issues have persisted since just before 3 a.m. ET.
