Apple’s touchscreen Mac event: 3 things I’m excited for – and my one concern
Apple’s Oct. 28 event is official. Here’s what to expect, what’s exciting, and the big question I need answered.
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I tried the free PowerPoint clone on Linux – and it beats LibreOffice and Google Slides
If you make presentations and need MS PowerPoint, but Linux is your OS of choice, this free option is for you.
Apple TV 4K (2026) vs Apple TV 4K (2022): Is ‘Hey Siri’ worth twice the price?
The new Apple TV 4K costs twice as much as the previous model, but is it worth the price?
Amazon dropped the price of this rugged SanDisk SSD to nearly 30% off – an all-time low
It weighs just 1.1 ounces, can survive drops of up to two meters and you can pick it up for a record-low $160 at Amazon.
How to find Flock cameras near you with MapQuest’s new ‘surveillance layer’
A name from the past is emerging again to help you stay out of sight of surveillance cameras.
How to unlock your Verizon, T-Mobile, or AT&T phone – and why DIY unlocking is dead
Carriers say locking handsets prevents theft. It also keeps you locked into their services. Here’s how to tell if your phone is locked and what to do next.
Samsung’s affordable Galaxy S26 FE just got even cheaper with a $100 discount at Amazon
You can grab all three colors of the S26 FE for as low as $600 right now, with no trade-in or carrier contract required.
HomePod Mini 2 (2026) vs. HomePod Mini (2020): Is Siri AI worth the upgrade?
There are a few notable upgrades, including Siri AI support, but your original HomePod Mini may still do almost everything you need.
Use plug-in solar panels? Don’t skip these 4 winterizing steps
Poorly secured plug-in solar panels won’t survive a winter storm. Here’s what to check and adjust now – before it’s too late.
I tried the free Adobe Acrobat clone – and finally have a pro PDF editor on Linux
If you’ve been frustrated over the lack of a good PDF editor in Linux, the developers at ArtCraft have delivered exactly what you need.
How I open-sourced my smart home in a weekend – and ditched Google for Siri
For years, my smart home ran on Google Home. When I decided to switch, Apple’s new smart hub was tempting, but Home Assistant hardware and software does so much more.
Plug-in solar is legal in these 10 states now – how it could save you money
So-called balcony solar setups are becoming legal across the US. Here’s the latest.
How to turn your old router into a Wi-Fi extender – and fix dead spots for free
That dusty old router can save you time and money on a new hub.
Have a Meta business account? You’re consenting to AI scraping now, legal experts say
And there’s no opt-out available.
Have a Meta business account? You’re consenting to AI scraping now, legal experts say
And there’s no opt-out available.
Munich dumps proprietary for open source (again) – but no Linux desktop
Open source in the public sector doesn’t fail because of technical issues. It fails because it’s not aligned with the political agenda
Anthropic gives third-party auditors ’employee-like access’ in AI industry first
As AI labs continue to self-regulate, external evaluators play a crucial role in spotting risks.
Want an iPhone Duo before 2027? Don’t preorder from Apple – try this instead
Estimates for Duo preorders are now showing a ship date of late January, marking a new wait time record for Apple and its customers.
Wi-Fi extender vs. powerline adapter: The best internet dead zone fix for your home
Both solutions promise to eliminate your Internet dead zones, but they work differently. Here’s how to tell which one suits your home.
AT&T will take $1,200 off your preorder of the iPhone Duo – what to know
Apple’s first foldable phone is available for preorder now.
Apple HomeView vs. Amazon Echo Show 8: Which smart home hub is right for you?
Apple’s joined the smart home category with the new HomeView, but Amazon isn’t moving out anytime soon.
T-Mobile’s iPhone Duo deal gives you $1,000 off when you preorder now. Here’s how
Preorders for the iPhone Duo are finally open, and you can save 50% right now at T-Mobile.
How to preorder the iPhone Duo – and get the best deals from T-Mobile, Verizon, Apple, and more
Apple’s first foldable phone is now available to preorder. We have the details on the best discounts you can snag.
How many jobs is your state losing to AI? This dashboard tracks the cuts – and the cost
CAIS’ Wage Loss Dashboard puts AI-related job cuts into dollars and cents.
I was anti-wireless CarPlay until I tried TwelveSouth’s new adapter
The AirFly Drive works with both CarPlay and Android Auto, and connects to two phones at once. Plus, it’s not ugly.
Sonos Ace Ultra vs. Sennheiser Momentum 5: I compared both Sony competitors – one is a better buy
Sonos and Sennheiser appeal to very different users. Here’s how to decide which one is best for you.
I thought I had the new Siri AI in iOS 27 – until I found it hidden in my settings
Have iOS 27 and think you’re using Siri AI? You might not be. Here’s how to check, unlock access, and discover what Apple’s upgraded assistant can actually do differently.
5 apps I always install on new Windows PCs – and most are free
I rely on these five apps daily, so they get a spot on each new Windows computer.
I saw Apple’s HomeView, HomePod Mini 2, and Apple TV 4K – and I’m sold on one
Apple is moving in. Here are my thoughts on the Apple Home collection.
The best iPhone Duo cases in 2026: Expert recommended
The foldable iPhone Duo is almost here – and we went hands-on with the best cases to protect your new phone.
Renting? These 2 new Apple smart home devices are worth your money (and these 5 are not)
Eyeing Apple’s new Home Collection products? Renters should check their lease agreement before installing.
Apple’s first touchscreen MacBook is days away – with another OLED surprise
Apple reportedly set a date to unveil its new touchscreen MacBooks. Here’s what else we expect.
Apple’s new smart home devices get 3 things right – and one frustratingly wrong
Here are my favorite special touches in the Apple Home collection, plus a grievance.
Best Buy just dropped this Lexar SSD by almost 40% – and I recommend it
The Lexar NM1090 Pro is great for gamers and professionals alike – especially at this price.
Nvidia’s new Nemotron 3.5 Super VL is another step forward for US open-weight AI
Nvidia’s new models join a wave of open-weight releases from US labs on the heels of the Hugging Face hack.
I’ve tested over 100 storage drives and their speeds with this free tool – why I trust it
CrystalDiskMark 9 is a free, open-source tool for testing your HDD, SSD, and flash drive read and write speeds. Here’s how it works.
How to fix Wi-Fi dead zones using your home’s electrical wiring – no drilling required
You can easily extend your home’s internet connection through your existing electrical wiring. Here’s how – with a simple adapter.
I wear XR glasses every day on my commute – Why Xreal’s latest pair is my new main driver
The new 1 Pro Plus improves upon its predecessor in several key areas, making them one of the most
Suunto Race 3S review: How real-time dynamic pacing improved my trail runs
Suunto’s latest Race 3S sports watch offers buyers a smaller premium option in three colorways.
Google’s new Universal Cart tracks prices on items you want now – plus 3 other tricks
Google unveiled two new shopping tools ahead of the holiday buying season. Here’s what to know.
NordVPN’s CTO on redefining antivirus for the AI era, and his dream security tool
ZDNET spoke with NordVPN CTO Marijus Briedis about security in a rapidly shifting landscape.
Visual learner? Ask ChatGPT to respond with interactive images – it’s a game-changer
GPT-6 can create interactive images to help you visualize and work with the information you need. Here are five ways I’ve used it this feature.
My top 5 Linux server distros for your home network – and they’re all free
Looking for an operating system to power the servers on your LAN? From hundreds of Linux distributions, I’ve hand-picked five that will more than meet your needs.
The Framework 12 is the ultimate tinkerer’s PC – and a joy for Linux users
I admit it: I’ve historically been skeptical of Linux laptops, but Framework showed me how it’s done.
90% of CFOs using AI report multiple business benefits – their top 5 priorities now
The CFO’s role has increased due to AI growth, new tech stack investments, more revenue channels, evolving compliance requirements, and expanded sales strategies.
Sick of fragile smartwatches? I found one that’s modular and repairable
If you’re looking for a wearable you won’t throw away in a few years, the Una Repairable GPS Watch sports a user-replaceable display and battery, along with other modular components.
Sick of fragile smartwatches? I found one that’s modular and repairable
If you’re looking for a wearable you won’t throw away in a few years, the Una Repairable GPS Watch sports a user-replaceable display and battery, along with other modular components.
How Apple’s video doorbell privacy compares to Ring, Wyze, and Blink
It won’t be hard for Apple to beat other doorbell cameras’ privacy policies.
Windows update patches a whopping 1,400 security bugs – including 2 zero days
This month’s update also marks the first official one for Windows 11 26H2 and the end of support for Windows 11 24H2 Home and Pro.
We put 8 pairs of earbuds to the test in our lab – this pair won best ANC
ZDNET’s latest Lab Award goes to the pair of earbuds that were most effective at active noise cancellation.
How I used ChatGPT to talk me through fixing a corrupted gaming PC – literally
ChatGPT helped me investigate RAM failures, BIOS settings, and Windows corruption – and it changed how I think about modern AI tech support.
I tried the free Microsoft Word clone on Linux – and it’s my new default (on Mac too)
Someone cloned Microsoft Word, so I had to try it on Linux and Mac. It’s a 1:1 alternative – and open source.
Why the future of Linux is rolling – thanks to AI
With the speed of AI pushing the limits of development, only these releases will keep up.
My favorite AI GUI for Linux works with local or cloud models – and it’s free
Askimo can handle just about everything I need from AI, with a little setup. Here’s how I use it.
How Apple just convinced this smart home hater to ditch my old thermostat – finally
The new Apple Home Collection’s minimalist design and simple setup have convinced me to invest in some smart home tech.
The new Apple TV 4K is always listening for ‘Hey Siri’ – is that a good thing?
Siri takes center stage on the new Apple TV 4K, with AI responses on the screen in real time.
Linus Torvalds is using AI to develop Linux kernel code now
The move is a turning point in the developer’s relationship with AI and Linux.
Google lets you make personal Android apps for free now – with just prompts
It just got a whole lot easier to vibe code the exact Android app you need – no developer experience required.
Apple’s HomeView won’t replace my Echoes anytime soon: 6 reasons why
I wanted Apple’s HomeView to replace every Amazon Echo in my house. But we’re not there yet.
Apple’s smart home event: All 7 devices, prices, and release dates
Apple’s ‘Welcome Home’ event featured all the new smart home hardware coming to the Apple lineup.
4 upgrades HomePod Mini 2 has over its 6-year-old predecessor
HomePod mini 2 is here, and there are four major upgrades that separate it from the first generation.
I wore Ray-Ban Meta Audio glasses in public, and my biggest concern never came up
The camera-less smart glasses may not seem as capable as the originals, but at least they don’t scare people away.
Apple’s $299 HomeView smart hub is here: 8 highlights, including the wall model
As an Apple Home user, here’s what stands out about Apple’s new smart home hub – and what I want to test firsthand.
50% of companies generate value from AI now – here’s how
AI spending in the enterprise has more than tripled in past year, according to the BCG 2026 Applied AI Index. Here’s how more business leaders are finally seeing AI ROI.
‘What’s your AI stack?’ The new job interview question you need to know how to answer
Snaring your next career opportunity just got tougher, but it doesn’t have to be an intractable challenge.
Someone made a free Photoshop clone – so I had to try it on Linux
A team of developers did the impossible and created a nearly 1:1 Photoshop app for Linux, and it might spell trouble for GIMP.
‘So perfect, they are literally identical’ – Your AI-polished resumes are recruiters’ new top stressor
Exclusive: A new Employ report shows how AI is both helping and hurting the hiring industry.
Dutch tax authorities cancel Microsoft 365 cloud rollout – and turn toward open source
Another European move toward digital sovereignty has curtailed adopting the US workplace suite.
I’ve used Ubuntu for 22 years – and 26.10 might be its best release yet
This version of Ubuntu gleams thanks to a new AI-driven dictation platform, plenty of polish, and lots of speed.
I tried a $200 smartwatch with voice recording – it beat the Apple Watch in a few key ways
Mobvoi’s TicNote Watch focuses on AI voice recoding and summarization, while health and fitness tracking feels like a bonus.
I’m an Apple loyalist with an Echo home: 5 ways HomeView could make me switch
I’ve been an Apple user for over two decades, but Alexa runs my home. Here’s how the new HomeView smart home hub could change that.
How to get better ANC in your earbuds – my 3 favorite tips
Noise cancellation is one of your earbuds’ most important features, but sometimes you’ll need to make some tweaks to get the best from it.
My favorite travel chargers pack a few tricks – one even has its own screen
I never leave for a trip without these five chargers (and USB-C cables) in my bag. Here’s why.
Use ChatGPT Plus? Switching to Gemini could cut your bill – by $144 a year for me
Paying for ChatGPT, Google storage, and YouTube Premium? Your subscriptions might overlap more than you think.
Claude sent a false homicide tip to police – and it’s part of a troubling AI pattern
Models routinely take shortcuts to pass evaluations. Who gets to decide what incidents are innocuous?
Forget Wi-Fi: Apple is betting on Bluetooth with its new home devices
Leaks suggest Apple is giving its smart home devices major Bluetooth upgrades. Here’s what that could look like.
Stop local AI from crashing your Linux PC – 4 tips
Yes, you need more than just RAM to get the full power of local AI.
My week with new Googlebooks: The good, the bad, and the promising
I’ve tried Asus, Dell, Acer, HP, and Lenovo Googlebooks. Here’s why I’m cautiously optimistic about GooglebookOS.
Stop paying $12 a day for data abroad: How I stay connected on the cheap
From Morocco to a Norwegian cruise ship – so far this year, I’ve saved close to $1,000 by choosing eSIMs and Wi-Fi.
Ugreen’s liquid-cooled power bank looks impressive, but does it actually work?
The Ugreen MagFlow Pro’s micro-pump spreads heat away from your hand, and the thermal camera backs that up. Whether it’s better than plain old passive cooling is another matter.
Apple Watch Ultra 4 vs. Garmin Fenix 9 Pro: I wore both rugged watches off-grid – it’s a tough call
Yes, I’ve been wearing one on each wrist.
Google’s new Fitbit Edge solves my biggest gripe with the Pixel Watch
Google’s watches are too dang chunky.
This USB-C cable has a tiny screen – and that’s precisely why you need it
This 240W USB-C cable combines premium build quality with a power meter and touchscreen display.
I gave this $699 Mini PC the same task as my System76 Thelio – here’s how it fared
I installed Ubuntu 26.10 (beta) to test Canonical’s new Myna AI-driven dictation platform. Results were better than expected.
3 ways I put my Bluetooth speaker to work during a power outage
If a storm is heading your way, keep your Bluetooth speaker charged. It might come in handy.
Ring’s new smart lock has a manual fallback that can’t lock you out – how it works
The brand just announced a smart lock with a manual ‘power dial’ that charges the device in case it dies.
4 ways Amazon’s new Alexa tablets eclipse the Fire line – starting with Google Play
Amazon just upped its game with new Android tablets for entertainment and work.
People over paperwork: How Optum is using technology to streamline healthcare
Smart applications of pharmacy technology and AI can make healthcare simpler for patients and providers alike.
‘I use AI to do the things that I’m bad at’: Linus Torvalds on why it works for him
The Linux creator calls vibe coding ‘a wonderful way to find joy in programming,’ but not for running Linux development. (Finding bugs is OK.)
Pioneer’s new dual-camera dash cam is almost great – once you pass this roadblock
The Pioneer VREC-Z410DC’s front- and rear-facing cameras deliver close to 360-degree coverage of your car, but it has one annoying flaw.
Sennheiser vs. Bowers & Wilkins: I tested both brands’ flagship buds, one is better
Sennheiser and Bowers & Wilkins make solid premium earbuds, but their differences go beyond the price tags.
How I force Google to give me the Search results I want – with custom shortcuts
When you’re looking for answers, the last thing you need is a bunch of low-quality garbage in your search results. Here’s how to fix that.
Got iOS 27? Do these 5 things first after upgrading
Bought a new iPhone or just upgraded to iOS 27? Take these steps before diving into your new OS.
I use Google Magnifier to read tiny print without my glasses – it’s free and easy
Need to read fine print or something far away? This app is better than your camera zoom.
This hidden Google Messages setting will stop you from texting the wrong person
Prevent future messaging slip-ups with this easy fix.
The best data removal services of 2026: Expert tested and reviewed
Want to reduce your online footprint and seize your records from data brokers? Let one of the best data removal services around take on this frustrating job for you.
The best Hisense TVs of 2026: Expert tested and reviewed
Hisense has quickly become one of the more trusted names in mid-range TVs, and has recently started to offer truly premium-grade screens for high-end home theaters with new technology like RGB Mini LED panels and AI integration.
Best AirTag wallets of 2026: I found the best options to track your cards and cash
Never lose your cards and cash with Apple AirTag tracking wallets or alternatives from brands including Ridge, Nomad, and Chipolo.
Best MagSafe wallets of 2026: Expert tested and reviewed
Don’t compromise style or function with these MagSafe wallet picks from brands like Moft, ESR, and more.
The best 85-inch TVs in 2026: Expert recommended
Upgrading your home theater with a big-screen TV can create a more cinematic experience at home, and we tested the best from Samsung, Sony, and more.