Watch Linda Yaccarino’s wild interview at the Code Conference
Photo by Jerod Harris/Getty Images for Vox Media
On Wednesday evening, X CEO Linda Yaccarino appeared on stage at the Code Conference with frustration and protest. “I think many people in this room were not fully prepared for me to still come out on the stage,” she told interviewer Julia Boorstin,... #press
https://www.theverge.com/2023/9/28/23895150/linda-yaccarino-code-conference-2023-x-twitter?utm_source=press.coop
Nvidia offices raided by French competition authority
Illustration by Alex Castro / The Verge
Nvidia’s France offices were raided by the country’s competition authority this week, according to a report from The Wall Street Journal. While the French agency doesn’t mention Nvidia by name, it confirms it carried out a raid over concerns about anti-competitive... #press
https://www.theverge.com/2023/9/28/23894863/nvidia-offices-raided-french-competition-authority?utm_source=press.coop
Tesla sued for ‘severe’ racial harassment at its California factory, again
Photo by Becca Farsace / The Verge
Tesla subjected Black employees at its California factory to “severe or pervasive racial harassment” and helped perpetuate a hostile work environment for employees of color, according to a lawsuit filed by the US Equal Employment Opportunity Commission... #press
https://www.theverge.com/2023/9/28/23894848/tesla-lawsuit-severe-discrimination-harassment-eeoc?utm_source=press.coop
The best entertainment of 2023
The Boy and the Heron. | Image: Studio Ghibli
Right now, we are absolutely spoiled for choice when it comes to entertainment. TV shows, movies, and games all come out at such a fast and furious pace that it’s hard to keep up. Not all of them are worth your time, of course — which is where we come in.
Our team spends a lot of time immersed in the... #press
https://www.theverge.com/23613289/best-games-movie-tv-entertainment-2023?utm_source=press.coop
Castlevania: Nocturne is a revolutionary epic that does the franchise’s best games justice
Drolta Tzuentes as she appears in Castlevania: Nocturne. | Image: Netflix
Netflix’s newest Castlevania animated series reworks elements of the franchise’s best games into an epic history lesson about freedom and the French Revolution.
Continue reading… #press
https://www.theverge.com/23891310/netflix-castlevania-nocturne-review-konami-animated?utm_source=press.coop
Spotify is adding auto-generated transcripts to millions of podcasts
Image: Spotify
Spotify is rolling out auto-generated podcast transcripts to more creators in the coming weeks, the company announced Thursday.
The text transcripts will also be time-synced so listeners can visually follow along as a podcast episode progresses. Transcripts are available by scrolling... #press
https://www.theverge.com/2023/9/28/23894674/spotify-auto-generated-podcast-transcripts?utm_source=press.coop
Google adds a switch for publishers to opt out of becoming AI training data
Illustration: The Verge
Google just announced it’s giving website publishers a way to opt out of having their data used to train the company’s AI models while remaining accessible through Google Search. The new tool, called Google-Extended, allows sites to continue to get scraped and... #press
https://www.theverge.com/2023/9/28/23894779/google-ai-extended-training-data-toggle-bard-vertex?utm_source=press.coop
Newsrooms around the world are using AI to optimize work, despite concerns about bias and accuracy
Journalism and other fields are dealing with a new wave of tools like Google Bard. | Image: Google
The arrival of generative artificial intelligence has accelerated the use of AI in different fields, including journalism. AI is most visible in journalism when things go... #press
https://www.theverge.com/2023/9/28/23894651/ai-newsroom-journalism-study-automation-bias?utm_source=press.coop
Five ways the Meta Quest 3 will (let developers) change the game
On Wednesday, Meta didn’t announce an obvious killer app alongside the $499 Meta Quest 3 headset — unless you count the bundled Asgard’s Wrath 2 or Xbox Cloud Gaming in VR.
But if you watched the company’s Meta Connect keynote and developer session closely, the company revealed a bunch of intriguing improvements... #press
https://www.theverge.com/23893454/meta-quest-3-game-graphics-features-hands-avatar?utm_source=press.coop
Sega cancels live-service shooter Hyenas
Image: Creative Assembly / Sega
Sega is canceling the live-service shooter Hyenas before the game’s launch. Sega announced the news in a press release, stating the cancellation was due to “the lower profitability of the European region.” In addition to Hyenas, Sega will also cancel other unannounced in-development projects.... #press
https://www.theverge.com/2023/9/28/23894156/sega-cancels-hyenas-creative-assembly-layoffs?utm_source=press.coop
Trump and the GOP are trying to drive a wedge between autoworkers and EVs
Image: Getty
Last night, former President and current Republican frontrunner Donald Trump appeared before a crowd in suburban Detroit and tried out his new attack lines against electric vehicles.
EVs are too expensive, the former president argued (via The Detroit News); they don’t... #press
https://www.theverge.com/2023/9/28/23894243/trump-electric-vehicle-uaw-union-strike-biden-election?utm_source=press.coop
Massive layoffs expected to hit Epic Games
Illustration: Alex Castro / The Verge
Bloomberg reports that Fortnite developer Epic Games is expected to lay off 16 percent of its workforce, or around 900 people.
In a statement from Tim Sweeney, Epic has confirmed the layoffs. He wrote that the company intends to divest from Bandcamp — an independent music storefront... #press
https://www.theverge.com/2023/9/28/23894266/epic-games-layoffs-fortnite-unreal-engine?utm_source=press.coop
The Fitbit Charge 6 looks like a return to form
The Fitbit Charge 6 sticks to what Fitbit does well. | Image: Google / Fitbit
Fitbit is back with the Charge 6 — and on paper, this one feels like the most Fitbit-y Fitbit since Google actively began folding the company into its ecosystem. Not only has the price been lowered from $179.95 to $159.95 but the device also adds... #press
https://www.theverge.com/2023/9/28/23892317/fitbit-charge-6-google-fitness-trackers?utm_source=press.coop
Apple’s Argylle looks like the ultimate power clash in new trailer
Apple
You might think that it would take a lot of effort to make Henry Cavill look like a huge dork, but the first trailer for Apple TV Plus’ new meta spy comedy Argylle from director Matthew Vaughn proves that all it takes is a velveteen sweater and an unforgiving trip to SuperCuts.
Rather than focusing entirely on its... #press
https://www.theverge.com/23894072/apple-argylle-trailer-henry-cavill?utm_source=press.coop
Reddit will no longer let you opt out of personalized ads
Reddit says most users shouldn’t see a noticeable difference after the update is live. | Illustration by Alex Castro / The Verge
Reddit is removing the ability for some users to opt out of ad personalization based on their activity on the platform. Announced on Wednesday alongside several incoming updates to... #press
https://www.theverge.com/2023/9/28/23894023/reddit-opt-out-personalized-ads-privacy-update?utm_source=press.coop
Philips Hue will soon require an account to use its app — here’s what that means
The Philips Hue Bridge is required to access many of Hue’s smart lighting system features, and soon, you’ll need an account to use them, too.
Smart lighting stalwart Philips Hue is making some more changes. After launching a new security system last month and finally making good on its promise to... #press
https://www.theverge.com/2023/9/28/23892761/philips-hue-app-account-changes?utm_source=press.coop
The Raspberry Pi 5 is finally here
Photo by Emma Roth / The Verge
Despite doubts that the Raspberry Pi 5 would launch this year, the latest version of the microcomputer has arrived with some notable upgrades at a $60 starting price. Not only is it supposed to perform better than its predecessor, but it’s also the first Raspberry Pi to come with in-house silicon.... #press
https://www.theverge.com/2023/9/28/23889238/raspberry-pi-5-specs-availability-pricing?utm_source=press.coop
Apple will have to face an antitrust lawsuit alleging iOS Apple Pay dominance
Illustration: The Verge
California Northern District Judge Jeffrey White partially denied (PDF) Apple’s request to dismiss a proposed federal class action lawsuit over Apple Pay, reports Reuters. Three credit unions argued Apple violated the Sherman Anti-Trust Act by charging too... #press
https://www.theverge.com/2023/9/27/23893434/apple-pay-antitrust-lawsuit-tap-to-pay-digital-wallet?utm_source=press.coop
Kia’s three-row EV9 electric SUV will start at $54,900
Image: Kia
The 2024 Kia EV9 will start at $54,900 for the Light RWD trim before destination fees or adding options like a bigger battery or two extra motors for AWD. When announced earlier this year, the EV9 caught everyone’s attention since there are few (and costly) seven-seater fully-electric vehicles on the... #press
https://www.theverge.com/2023/9/27/23893352/kia-ev9-2024-starting-price-cost-announcement?utm_source=press.coop
Pokémon are coming to the Van Gogh Museum to teach the world about art
A comparison of ‘Pikachu with Grey Felt Hat’ and Vincent Van Gogh’s ‘Self Portrait with Grey Felt Hat’ | The Pokémon Company, the Van Gogh Museum
If the Pokémon Company’s video teasing its upcoming collaboration with the Van Gogh Museum was already enough to have you thinking about booking a ticket to Amsterdam, the promise... #press
https://www.theverge.com/23893271/pokemon-x-van-gogh-museum?utm_source=press.coop
Lululemon is throwing in the towel on Mirror
Lululemon will end hardware sales by the end of the year. | Photo by Amelia Holowaty Krales / The Verge
Lululemon is calling it quits on Mirror. And it’s tagging Peloton for help parachuting out of connected fitness.
As part of efforts to wind down the business, Bloomberg reports that Lululemon plans on ending hardware sales... #press
https://www.theverge.com/2023/9/27/23893249/lululemon-mirror-peloton-connected-fitness?utm_source=press.coop
PlayStation leader Jim Ryan to retire after 28 years with Sony
Jim Ryan, the head of PlayStation and CEO of Sony, is stepping down. In a press release on Wednesday, Sony announced that Ryan will retire in March 2024, while Sony Group Corporation president and chief operating officer Hiroki Totoki will become the interim CEO of Sony starting April 1st, 2024.
“After 30 years, I... #press
https://www.theverge.com/2023/9/27/23893389/sony-playstation-jim-ryan-ceo-steps-down?utm_source=press.coop
Disney’s password-sharing crackdown has begun
Disney CEO Bob Iger foreshadowed the move last month. | Photo by Neilson Barnard/Getty Images
Starting on November 1st, Disney Plus will begin restricting password sharing. In Canada.
The company announced the change in an email sent to Canadian subscribers. Disney has not provided many details on how it plans to enforce this... #press
https://www.theverge.com/2023/9/27/23893231/disney-plus-password-sharing-ban-canada?utm_source=press.coop
Counter-Strike 2 is out now
Counter-Strike 2 | Image: Valve
Counter-Strike 2, the highly anticipated upgrade for CS:GO, has finally arrived. Valve announced today that it’s launching CS2, which comes with some major updates like improved smoke grenades, redesigned maps, and improved network features.
After years of rumors, Valve announced CS2 in March and opened up a limited test.... #press
https://www.theverge.com/2023/9/27/23893279/valve-counter-strike-2-launch?utm_source=press.coop
Microsoft is testing a DALL-E-powered text-to-image creator in Paint for Windows 11
Image: Microsoft
Microsoft is testing a DALL-E-powered text-to-image creator in Microsoft Paint for Windows 11, the company announced in a blog post. Called Paint Cocreator, the tool creates art based on a description the user types out.
Alternatively, users can select an art style,... #press
https://www.theverge.com/2023/9/27/23892900/microsoft-dall-e-windows-11-paint-cocreator?utm_source=press.coop
ChatGPT can now search the web in real time
Illustration: The Verge
OpenAI posted today that ChatGPT can once more trawl the web for current information, offering answers taken directly from “current and authoritative” sources, which it cites in its responses. The feature, called Browse with Bing, is only open to those with Plus and Enterprise subscriptions for... #press
https://www.theverge.com/2023/9/27/23892781/openai-chatgpt-live-web-results-browse-with-bing?utm_source=press.coop
EA delists old FIFA titles ahead of its new soccer game’s debut
Image: EA
EA has delisted all prior FIFA games from major storefronts, including Epic Games, Steam, Switch, Xbox, and PS5. The titles, up to and including FIFA 23, are no longer available for purchase. The move, which was first spotted by analyst MauroNL, comes just two days before the upcoming EA Sports FC 24 is... #press
https://www.theverge.com/2023/9/27/23892905/fifa-23-delisted-ea-sports-fc-24?utm_source=press.coop
Fortnite V-bucks are about to get more expensive
Image: Epic Games
Fortnite’s in-game currency is getting a price adjustment — and it’ll make V-bucks more expensive in a number of countries. The pricing change goes into effect on October 27th, and it impacts the following countries: Czech Republic, Denmark, Eurozone countries, Hungary, Japan, Norway, Poland, Romania, Sweden,... #press
https://www.theverge.com/2023/9/27/23893112/fortnite-v-bucks-pricing-adjustment?utm_source=press.coop
The iPhone 15 Pro case market is a minefield right now
Two of these case makers guessed right, two did not.
Between Apple no longer making leather products and the utter disappointment of the new FineWoven case, there’s more opportunity this year for third-party iPhone case makers than perhaps ever before. But for a lot of manufacturers, the new Action Button in the iPhone... #press
https://www.theverge.com/23892671/iphone-15-pro-action-button-case-maker-problems?utm_source=press.coop
iPhone 15 Pro users will pay full console price for Resident Evil 4 remake
Don’t expect to pay mobile game prices for a console title — even if it’s running on iPhone. | Image: Capcom
If you’re looking to grab the recently announced iPhone 15 Pro version of the Resident Evil 4 remake, you’ll be paying full console game prices. According to information... #press
https://www.theverge.com/2023/9/27/23892250/iphone-15-pro-resident-evil-4-remake-port-console-price?utm_source=press.coop
Yale’s new smart locks work with your fingerprint or HomeKey, but not both
The Yale Assure Lock 2 Plus works with HomeKey so you can open it with your wrist instead of your hand — if you have an Apple Watch. | Image: Yale
Yale has expanded its Assure 2 lineup with two new smart locks: one with support for Apple’s HomeKey and one with a fingerprint reader. Both... #press
https://www.theverge.com/2023/9/27/23891513/yale-assure-lock-2-touch-fingerprint-plus-homekey?utm_source=press.coop
We put our faith in Mercedes-Benz’s first-of-its-kind autonomous Drive Pilot feature
Why watch the road when you can watch Kylie’s new video instead? | Image: Daniel Golson
Drive Pilot is a Level 3 autonomous system, meaning you can take your hands off the wheel and — more notably — eyes off the road during certain conditions. But are we ready to give up... #press
https://www.theverge.com/2023/9/27/23892154/mercedes-benz-drive-pilot-autonomous-level-3-test?utm_source=press.coop
How to turn regular photos into Portrait mode photos on an iPhone 15
Add background blur or change the focus point on pictures of your furry friend. | Illustration by Samar Haddad / The Verge
Anyone with an iPhone who’s taken a picture of their child or pet knows the Portrait mode dilemma. Portrait mode adds that lovely, soft bokeh effect to the background of... #press
https://www.theverge.com/23891219/apple-iphone-15-plus-pro-max-portrait-mode-photos-edit-camera?utm_source=press.coop
Jony Ive is reportedly developing an AI gadget with OpenAI’s Sam Altman
Altman recently called on former Apple designer Thomas Meyerhoffer — a Jony Ive hire — to create the retina-scanning Orb (pictured) for Altman’s Worldcoin crypto project. | Image: Worldcoin
Apple’s former chief design officer, Jony Ive, and OpenAI CEO Sam Altman are allegedly exploring... #press
https://www.theverge.com/2023/9/27/23892135/jony-ive-sam-altman-ai-device-openai-ceo-apple-designer?utm_source=press.coop
The new WGA contract will change how Hollywood works
As of midnight, the Writers Guild of America will no longer be picketing. Instead, members of the union will be poring over new details on the contract negotiated with the AMPTP and deciding whether they will vote to ratify this new contract.
(Disclosure: The Verge's editorial staff is also unionized with the Writers Guild of... #press
https://www.theverge.com/2023/9/26/23891835/wga-contract-summary-ai-streaming-data?utm_source=press.coop
The Writers Guild of America’s strike ends at midnight
Photo by Mario Tama / Getty Images
After a nearly five-month-long strike, the Writers Guild of America (WGA) is telling its members to lower their picket signs. In a post, the WGA said its Negotiating Committee, WGAW Board, and WGAE Council all voted unanimously to recommend the deal reached with the Alliance of Motion... #press
https://www.theverge.com/2023/9/26/23889334/wga-strike-end-hollywood-writers?utm_source=press.coop
Eufy’s new X8 Pro robot vacuum can detangle hair automatically
Eufy Clean X8 Pro with its self-emptying station and app. | Image: Eufy
Anker’s Eufy division has a new robot vacuum cleaner with more powerful suction than its other offerings, and which can automatically detangle hair and pet fur from its bottom roller brush.
The new $649.99 Eufy Clean X8 Pro vacuum is... #press
https://www.theverge.com/2023/9/26/23891423/eufy-clean-x8-pro-robot-vacuum-anker?utm_source=press.coop
K-pop group NewJeans will perform this year’s League of Legends Worlds anthem
Photo by Gary Miller / FilmMagic
The 2023 League of Legends World Championship is taking place in Korea this year, and to celebrate, Riot has tapped one of the country’s hottest bands to perform the annual anthem. Girl group NewJeans — best known for earworms like “Super Shy” — will be... #press
https://www.theverge.com/2023/9/26/23885476/newjeans-league-of-legends-worlds-2023-anthem?utm_source=press.coop
Nothing launches a smartwatch and earbuds that cost less than $120 combined
Image: CMF
CMF, the affordability-focused brand owned by Nothing, has launched its first line of products: the Buds Pro, Watch Pro, and a 65W GaN fast charger.
The Buds Pro are a pair of wireless earbuds that offer a solid set of features at a £49 / $49 price tag. The buds come with hybrid active noise... #press
https://www.theverge.com/2023/9/26/23891328/nothing-cmf-buds-pro-watch-charger?utm_source=press.coop
Newegg now takes GPU trade-ins
Newegg’s caption for this photo was “Joseph Olmedo of Newegg examines a graphics card to determine its condition.” Joseph, you’re doing great, man. | Image: Newegg
Newegg will now take your old GPU off your hands in exchange for a trade-in credit on a new one. The Newegg Trade-In Program, which soft-launched earlier this month but was officially... #press
https://www.theverge.com/2023/9/26/23891243/newegg-gpu-trade-in-program?utm_source=press.coop
FCC announces plans to resurrect net neutrality rules
Photo by Steven Ferdman / Getty Images
The US Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has announced plans to reinstate landmark net neutrality rules meant to guarantee fair access to the internet and its information, five years after they were repealed by then-president Donald Trump in 2018.
Previous net... #press
https://www.theverge.com/2023/9/26/23890527/fcc-net-neutrality-rules-law-usa-internet-access?utm_source=press.coop
Apple’s Studio Display gets manual controls for its webcam
Photo by Becca Farsace / The Verge
Apple just released macOS Sonoma, and along with the new 14.0 version of its operating system, there’s an update for its standalone Studio Display monitor that addresses some of our issues with its much-derided webcam (via MacRumors). Now, the Studio Display’s camera... #press
https://www.theverge.com/2023/9/26/23891242/apple-studio-display-webcam-control-macos-sonoma?utm_source=press.coop
15 incredibly useful Windows 11 keyboard shortcuts
Illustration by Samar Haddad / The Verge
Getting around Windows 11 is a lot easier if you know a keyboard shortcut or five. You can then speed through tasks and across apps without having to fumble around for the mouse and trackpad (or even take your eyes off the screen).
These are some of my favorites that I turn to again and again... #press
https://www.theverge.com/23890880/windows-11-keyboard-shortcuts-how-to?utm_source=press.coop
Apple defends Google Search deal in court: ‘There wasn’t a valid alternative’
Photo by Chip Somodevilla / Getty Images
Eddy Cue, in a dark suit, peered down at the monitor in front of him. The screens in the Washington, DC, courtroom had briefly malfunctioned and left witnesses with only binders, but now the tech was up and running — showing an image of three iPhones, each... #press
https://www.theverge.com/2023/9/26/23891037/apple-eddy-cue-testimony-us-google?utm_source=press.coop
The first trailer for Apple’s sci-fi film Fingernails shows a retrofuturistic romcom
Image: Apple
Just yesterday, I included Fingernails in a list of movies from the Toronto International Film Festival that would be streaming very soon. And now, we have our very first trailer for the sci-fi romcom, which is coming to Apple TV Plus.
Directed by Christos Nikou, Fingernails is set in... #press
https://www.theverge.com/23890999/fingernails-trailer-apple-tv-plus-movie?utm_source=press.coop
Apple Podcasts overhaul pulls in original programming from third-party apps
Illustration by Alex Castro / The Verge
Apple just made its biggest push in decades to boost original content on its podcast app, which has been refreshed with the recent update to iOS 17. It’s also casting a wider net for its audience by allowing users to connect through third-party... #press
https://www.theverge.com/2023/9/26/23890734/apple-podcasts-original-programming-third-party-apps?utm_source=press.coop
FTC files a massive antitrust lawsuit against Amazon
Illustration by Alex Castro / The Verge
The Federal Trade Commission and more than a dozen state attorneys general have filed a sweeping antitrust lawsuit against Amazon, alleging that the e-commerce giant has unlawfully leveraged its market dominance to stamp out would-be competitors.
“Our complaint lays out how Amazon... #press
https://www.theverge.com/2023/9/26/23809817/amazon-ftc-antitrust-lawsuit-monopoly?utm_source=press.coop
The Creator retreads familiar AI panic territory to stunningly inert effect
John David Washington as Joshua in The Creator. | Image: Oren Soffer
Gareth Edwards’ new dystopian sci-fi epic is a gorgeous morass of AI doomerism that’s lacking in the way of novel ideas.
Continue reading… #press
https://www.theverge.com/23889089/the-creator-movie-review-gareth-edwards?utm_source=press.coop
Threads is struggling to retain users — but it could still catch up to X
Image: The Verge
Threads, Instagram’s X (formerly Twitter) competitor, is struggling to keep users around following its blockbuster launch, according to data from Insider Intelligence. The data, which was first reported on by CNBC, suggests that Threads will have far fewer monthly active users than... #press
https://www.theverge.com/2023/9/26/23890592/threads-meta-monthly-users-data-x-twitter?utm_source=press.coop
SAG-AFTRA votes for strike approval for video game performers
Image: Sony
As one of the twin Hollywood strikes appears to be winding down, SAG-AFTRA has voted to approve strike authorization for video game performers covered under the union’s interactive media agreement. Earlier this week, the writers’ half of the Hollywood strikes reached a tentative agreement... #press
https://www.theverge.com/2023/9/26/23890663/sag-aftra-strike-approval-video-game-performers?utm_source=press.coop
Google Podcasts is going to the graveyard
Illustration: Alex Castro / The Verge
Google Podcasts is going away. Starting next year, Google will focus on offering podcast access within YouTube Music instead.
This change doesn’t come as a complete surprise. In April, Google launched the ability for users in the US to listen to podcasts in YouTube Music without a paid... #press
https://www.theverge.com/2023/9/26/23890694/google-podcasts-2024-shutdown-youtube-music?utm_source=press.coop
Xiaomi dives headfirst into Wear OS with the Watch 2 Pro
The Xiaomi Watch 2 Pro makes the leap from a proprietary OS to Wear OS. | Image: Xiaomi
Xiaomi announced it’s making the jump to Wear OS for its new Watch 2 Pro. And in true Xiaomi fashion, it’s offering a surprisingly stacked set of features, including body composition analysis and dual-frequency GPS, for an... #press
https://www.theverge.com/2023/9/26/23890658/xiaomi-watch-2-pro-wear-os-smartwatch-wearable?utm_source=press.coop
Whoop is adding a ChatGPT-powered ‘coach’
Whoop Coach runs on ChatGPT-4. | Image: Whoop
Whoop announced it’s adding generative AI to its platform with a new feature called Whoop Coach. Powered by ChatGPT, it’s meant to deliver more personalized recommendations and data insights.
Using AI in fitness tech for the sake of personalization isn’t new — though Whoop Coach is an... #press
https://www.theverge.com/2023/9/26/23888984/whoop-coach-chatgpt-ai-fitness?utm_source=press.coop
Tubi is using ChatGPT to give you better movie recommendations
Next time you need something to watch, just ask. | Image: Tubi
Tubi’s library of streaming content is huge. And kind of impenetrable. You can watch its many always-on channels or watch something the service’s homescreen recommends, but more likely than not, you’re going to spend too much of your... #press
https://www.theverge.com/2023/9/26/23890106/tubi-rabbit-ai-recommendations-movie-show-chatgpt?utm_source=press.coop
How to order free rapid covid tests from the US government — again
Image: Samar Haddad / The Verge
Autumn is here, and once again, warnings are going up about the spread of the covid-19 virus — along with the flu and RSV, or respiratory syncytial virus. To try to minimize the upsurge, the US government is once again restarting a program that was last canceled in May 2023 and is again... #press
https://www.theverge.com/23510740/covid-free-tests-government-how-to?utm_source=press.coop
Mattel’s Pictionary Vs. AI leaves the guesswork to the bots
Why, that’s not a tiger at all, my gAI. | Image: Mattel
Mattel has announced Pictionary Vs. AI, a version of its visual guessing game where an AI model does all the guessing, using computer vision with a smartphone as the medium. The company just announced the game at the 2023 Code Conference, which... #press
https://www.theverge.com/2023/9/26/23889925/mattel-pictionary-vs-ai-board-game-google-quick-draw?utm_source=press.coop
EVgo is trying to turn around complaints about slow, broken EV chargers
Image: EVgo
Imagine buying a new car, and suddenly, most gas stations are broken. That’s a reality new electric vehicle owners are finding when it comes to EV charging stations supplied by significant players like ChargePoint, Electrify America, and EVgo.
Many stations often result in... #press
https://www.theverge.com/2023/9/26/23889795/evgo-renew-ev-electric-car-chaging-reliability-update?utm_source=press.coop
Sony announces Olivia Rodrigo edition of its LinkBuds S earbuds
Image: Sony
Sony is releasing a custom pair of its LinkBuds S earbuds designed in collaboration with pop star Olivia Rodrigo. And the partnership goes beyond just style: this pair of the LinkBuds S will include two custom EQ modes that are optimized for each of Rodrigo’s albums, Sour and Guts. ... #press
https://www.theverge.com/2023/9/26/23889814/sony-olivia-rodrigo-linkbuds-s-announced-guts-sour?utm_source=press.coop
Valve suddenly says SteamVR 2.0 is now in beta — as headset rumors swirl
Half-Life: Alyx. | Image: Valve
Valve built up to virtual reality for a very long time — and never stopped, but it also seemed to slow its roll while nurturing the Steam Deck gaming handheld. But for weeks now, Valve sleuth Brad Lynch has been tracking changes to SteamVR that suggest the wheels are turning... #press
https://www.theverge.com/2023/9/25/23890229/valve-steamvr-2-0-beta-announce?utm_source=press.coop
The DJI Mini 4 Pro is the first mini with binocular vision in every direction
Video by DJI / GIF by The Verge
Now that Skydio has exited the consumer drone business and will never sell me the miniature self-flying drone of my dreams, I’m looking to DJI instead. The fancy marketing for its just-announced $759 DJI Mini 4 Pro suggests we’re at least on the way — because it’s the... #press
https://www.theverge.com/2023/9/25/23890019/dji-mini-4-pro-price-release-date?utm_source=press.coop
YouTube is axing its ad-free Premium Lite subscription plan
Raise your hand if you never heard of YouTube Premium Lite but now wish it was available in your area. | Illustration: Alex Castro / The Verge
After YouTube spent two years piloting Premium Lite, a lower-cost subscription plan for ad-free video viewing in select countries, the platform is pulling... #press
https://www.theverge.com/2023/9/25/23889917/youtube-premium-lite-subscription-discontinued-retired?utm_source=press.coop
Former Amazon hardware boss Dave Limp will take over as CEO of Blue Origin
Amazon’s former hardware boss Dave Limp will take on the role of CEO at Jeff Bezos’ Blue Origin after announcing his departure from Amazon, according to a report from CNBC. Internal documents obtained by the outlet reveal that Limp will replace outgoing Blue Origin CEO Bob Smith starting on December 4th.
In... #press
https://www.theverge.com/2023/9/25/23889986/amazon-blue-origin-dave-limp-ceo?utm_source=press.coop
Gmail’s basic HTML view will go to the Google graveyard in 2024
Illustration by Alex Castro / The Verge
Google will send Gmail’s basic HTML view sailing into the great beyond starting in January 2024, after which time everyone who uses it will be switched to the service’s far more modern “Standard” view. The change appears to have been announced around September 19th in a... #press
https://www.theverge.com/2023/9/25/23889791/gmail-basic-html-view-discontinued-2024?utm_source=press.coop
Unity finally addressed developers’ biggest questions about its new pricing model
Illustration by Cath Virginia / The Verge
Unity executive Marc Whitten participated in a fireside chat that addressed the company’s new pricing program, the backlash it caused, and what it’s doing to win back developer trust.
Continue reading… #press
https://www.theverge.com/2023/9/25/23889346/unity-pricing-model-fireside-chat-overview?utm_source=press.coop
Facebook can be sued over biased ad algorithm, says court
Illustration: Nick Barclay / The Verge
Facebook can be sued over allegations that its advertising algorithm is discriminatory, a California state court of appeals ruled last week. The decision stems from a class action lawsuit filed against Facebook in 2020, which accused the company of not showing insurance ads to... #press
https://www.theverge.com/2023/9/25/23889747/facebook-biased-ad-algorithm-aclu-court?utm_source=press.coop
Nissan’s racy new EV concept previews an all-electric future in Europe
Nissan’s Concept 20-23. | Image: Nissan
Nissan is previewing a new sporty, Micro Machines-looking all-electric concept vehicle for Europe that signals its plans to go all-electric in the continent by 2030.
Designed by Nissan’s London design team, the non-production EV hatchback (called... #press
https://www.theverge.com/2023/9/25/23889481/nissan-concept-20-23-europe-electrification-ambitions?utm_source=press.coop
Festival movies you can stream from home very soon
Pain Hustlers. | Image: Brian Douglas / Netflix
Film festivals like TIFF are a great chance to get a sense of what’s coming to theaters in the coming months, but they’re also a good way to preview the upcoming streaming calendar. Last year in Toronto, for example, Netflix gave an early look at two of its biggest... #press
https://www.theverge.com/23889070/tiff-2023-movies-streaming-netflix-hulu-apple-tv-plus?utm_source=press.coop
Oddbean new post about login | logout
Notes by 517595b9 | export
Passkeys: all the news and updates around passwordless sign-on Illustration by Alex Castro / The Verge Follow along as websites, apps, and services adopt passkeys in preparation for a passwordless future. Continue reading… #press https://www.theverge.com/2023/9/29/23895518/passkey-passwordless-login-announcements-news-updates?utm_source=press.coopSamsung Galaxy S24 leak shows a familiar design ahead of early 2024 launch Early renders show a very similar looking phone to last year’s Galaxy S23. | Image: SmartPrix / OnLeaks If you were hoping for a revolutionary design for next year’s Samsung Galaxy S24 you might be disappointed. Unofficial renders of the upcoming phone published by SmartPrix... #press https://www.theverge.com/2023/9/29/23895519/samsung-galaxy-s24-leaked-renders-design-specs-features-rumors?utm_source=press.coopWatch Linda Yaccarino’s wild interview at the Code Conference Photo by Jerod Harris/Getty Images for Vox Media On Wednesday evening, X CEO Linda Yaccarino appeared on stage at the Code Conference with frustration and protest. “I think many people in this room were not fully prepared for me to still come out on the stage,” she told interviewer Julia Boorstin,... #press https://www.theverge.com/2023/9/28/23895150/linda-yaccarino-code-conference-2023-x-twitter?utm_source=press.coopNvidia offices raided by French competition authority Illustration by Alex Castro / The Verge Nvidia’s France offices were raided by the country’s competition authority this week, according to a report from The Wall Street Journal. While the French agency doesn’t mention Nvidia by name, it confirms it carried out a raid over concerns about anti-competitive... #press https://www.theverge.com/2023/9/28/23894863/nvidia-offices-raided-french-competition-authority?utm_source=press.coopTesla sued for ‘severe’ racial harassment at its California factory, again Photo by Becca Farsace / The Verge Tesla subjected Black employees at its California factory to “severe or pervasive racial harassment” and helped perpetuate a hostile work environment for employees of color, according to a lawsuit filed by the US Equal Employment Opportunity Commission... #press https://www.theverge.com/2023/9/28/23894848/tesla-lawsuit-severe-discrimination-harassment-eeoc?utm_source=press.coopThe best iPhones Navigate Apple’s lengthy iPhone product catalog like a pro. | Image: The Verge Whether you want a battery that lasts for days or the very best deal, we’ve got some recommendations for an iPhone you’ll love. Continue reading… #press https://www.theverge.com/23618862/best-iphone-camera-battery-screen-guide?utm_source=press.coopThe best entertainment of 2023 The Boy and the Heron. | Image: Studio Ghibli Right now, we are absolutely spoiled for choice when it comes to entertainment. TV shows, movies, and games all come out at such a fast and furious pace that it’s hard to keep up. Not all of them are worth your time, of course — which is where we come in. Our team spends a lot of time immersed in the... #press https://www.theverge.com/23613289/best-games-movie-tv-entertainment-2023?utm_source=press.coopCastlevania: Nocturne is a revolutionary epic that does the franchise’s best games justice Drolta Tzuentes as she appears in Castlevania: Nocturne. | Image: Netflix Netflix’s newest Castlevania animated series reworks elements of the franchise’s best games into an epic history lesson about freedom and the French Revolution. Continue reading… #press https://www.theverge.com/23891310/netflix-castlevania-nocturne-review-konami-animated?utm_source=press.coopSpotify is adding auto-generated transcripts to millions of podcasts Image: Spotify Spotify is rolling out auto-generated podcast transcripts to more creators in the coming weeks, the company announced Thursday. The text transcripts will also be time-synced so listeners can visually follow along as a podcast episode progresses. Transcripts are available by scrolling... #press https://www.theverge.com/2023/9/28/23894674/spotify-auto-generated-podcast-transcripts?utm_source=press.coopGoogle adds a switch for publishers to opt out of becoming AI training data Illustration: The Verge Google just announced it’s giving website publishers a way to opt out of having their data used to train the company’s AI models while remaining accessible through Google Search. The new tool, called Google-Extended, allows sites to continue to get scraped and... #press https://www.theverge.com/2023/9/28/23894779/google-ai-extended-training-data-toggle-bard-vertex?utm_source=press.coopThe best magnetic chargers for your MagSafe iPhone Image: The Verge Making sense of Apple’s messy MagSafe charging ecosystem, where the first-party options are far from the best. Continue reading… #press https://www.theverge.com/23505846/best-magsafe-magnetic-chargers-apple-iphone?utm_source=press.coopNewsrooms around the world are using AI to optimize work, despite concerns about bias and accuracy Journalism and other fields are dealing with a new wave of tools like Google Bard. | Image: Google The arrival of generative artificial intelligence has accelerated the use of AI in different fields, including journalism. AI is most visible in journalism when things go... #press https://www.theverge.com/2023/9/28/23894651/ai-newsroom-journalism-study-automation-bias?utm_source=press.coopHow to choose which Apple Watch to buy Photo illustration by Alex Castro / The Verge Between the Apple Watch Series 9, the Ultra 2, and the second-gen SE, there are more options than ever. We’ll help you sort through them. Continue reading… #press https://www.theverge.com/23037217/apple-watch-series-9-ultra-2-second-gen-se-best-smartwatch-how-to?utm_source=press.coopSega cancels live-service shooter Hyenas Image: Creative Assembly / Sega Sega is canceling the live-service shooter Hyenas before the game’s launch. Sega announced the news in a press release, stating the cancellation was due to “the lower profitability of the European region.” In addition to Hyenas, Sega will also cancel other unannounced in-development projects.... #press https://www.theverge.com/2023/9/28/23894156/sega-cancels-hyenas-creative-assembly-layoffs?utm_source=press.coopTrump and the GOP are trying to drive a wedge between autoworkers and EVs Image: Getty Last night, former President and current Republican frontrunner Donald Trump appeared before a crowd in suburban Detroit and tried out his new attack lines against electric vehicles. EVs are too expensive, the former president argued (via The Detroit News); they don’t... #press https://www.theverge.com/2023/9/28/23894243/trump-electric-vehicle-uaw-union-strike-biden-election?utm_source=press.coop‘Nerfball’ introduces Nerf’s smartest foam yet — it detects dart impacts College basketball player Lyric Swann poses in the official Nerfball gear. | Photo: Hasbro Here’s Nerfball, the first official ‘sport’ from the company behind the blasters. Continue reading… #press https://www.theverge.com/2023/9/28/23893892/nerf-nerfball-foam-hit-detection-xo-nano-sport?utm_source=press.coopMassive layoffs expected to hit Epic Games Illustration: Alex Castro / The Verge Bloomberg reports that Fortnite developer Epic Games is expected to lay off 16 percent of its workforce, or around 900 people. In a statement from Tim Sweeney, Epic has confirmed the layoffs. He wrote that the company intends to divest from Bandcamp — an independent music storefront... #press https://www.theverge.com/2023/9/28/23894266/epic-games-layoffs-fortnite-unreal-engine?utm_source=press.coopSpaceX inks first Space Force deal for government-focused Starshield satellite network Image: The Verge SpaceX has won its first contract with the US Space Force to provide satellite communications via Starshield, Bloomberg reports. Announced last December, SpaceX describes Starshield as a “secured satellite network for government entities,” offered... #press https://www.theverge.com/2023/9/28/23894239/spacex-starshield-satellite-network-space-force-pentagon-deal?utm_source=press.coopThe Fitbit Charge 6 looks like a return to form The Fitbit Charge 6 sticks to what Fitbit does well. | Image: Google / Fitbit Fitbit is back with the Charge 6 — and on paper, this one feels like the most Fitbit-y Fitbit since Google actively began folding the company into its ecosystem. Not only has the price been lowered from $179.95 to $159.95 but the device also adds... #press https://www.theverge.com/2023/9/28/23892317/fitbit-charge-6-google-fitness-trackers?utm_source=press.coopGlowforge Aura review: a beginner-friendly laser cutter for hobbyists For $1,199, the Aura comes nearly ready to use out of the box, complete with a library of readymade designs you can use for an added cost. Continue reading… #press https://www.theverge.com/23864679/glowforge-aura-laser-cutter-review-entry-level-crafting?utm_source=press.coopApple’s Argylle looks like the ultimate power clash in new trailer Apple You might think that it would take a lot of effort to make Henry Cavill look like a huge dork, but the first trailer for Apple TV Plus’ new meta spy comedy Argylle from director Matthew Vaughn proves that all it takes is a velveteen sweater and an unforgiving trip to SuperCuts. Rather than focusing entirely on its... #press https://www.theverge.com/23894072/apple-argylle-trailer-henry-cavill?utm_source=press.coopBeyerdynamic’s first wireless gaming headset opts for simplicity over RGB German headphones that lean toward a utilitarian design? Color me geschockt. | Image: Beyerdynamic Beyerdynamic is making its first wireless gaming headset, offering a premium $249 set of cans that are compatible with PC, PlayStation, and Nintendo Switch... #press https://www.theverge.com/2023/9/28/23892590/beyerdynamic-mmx-200-wireless-gaming-headset-pc-playstation-switch-specs-price?utm_source=press.coopReddit will no longer let you opt out of personalized ads Reddit says most users shouldn’t see a noticeable difference after the update is live. | Illustration by Alex Castro / The Verge Reddit is removing the ability for some users to opt out of ad personalization based on their activity on the platform. Announced on Wednesday alongside several incoming updates to... #press https://www.theverge.com/2023/9/28/23894023/reddit-opt-out-personalized-ads-privacy-update?utm_source=press.coopNew PlayStation 5 owners can currently snag a free game courtesy of Sony You can get God of War Ragnarök for free if you pick up a PS5 before October 20th. | Image: Santa Monica Studio We’re now less than a month away from the release of Marvel’s Spider-Man 2. Thankfully, if you have yet to pick up a PlayStation 5 and need a refresher as to what... #press https://www.theverge.com/2023/9/28/23892371/sony-ps5-free-game-samsung-galaxy-tab-s9-kindle-oasis-deal-sale?utm_source=press.coopPhilips Hue will soon require an account to use its app — here’s what that means The Philips Hue Bridge is required to access many of Hue’s smart lighting system features, and soon, you’ll need an account to use them, too. Smart lighting stalwart Philips Hue is making some more changes. After launching a new security system last month and finally making good on its promise to... #press https://www.theverge.com/2023/9/28/23892761/philips-hue-app-account-changes?utm_source=press.coopDetails emerge on Jony Ive and OpenAI’s plan to build the ‘iPhone of artificial intelligence’ Ive (pictured) has been brainstorming ideas for the device with OpenAI CEO Sam Altman. | Photo by Jerod Harris/Getty Images for Vox Media Apple’s former chief design officer, Jony Ive, is reportedly in discussions with OpenAI to build the “iPhone of... #press https://www.theverge.com/2023/9/28/23893939/jony-ive-openai-sam-altman-iphone-of-artificial-intelligence-device?utm_source=press.coopThe Raspberry Pi 5 is finally here Photo by Emma Roth / The Verge Despite doubts that the Raspberry Pi 5 would launch this year, the latest version of the microcomputer has arrived with some notable upgrades at a $60 starting price. Not only is it supposed to perform better than its predecessor, but it’s also the first Raspberry Pi to come with in-house silicon.... #press https://www.theverge.com/2023/9/28/23889238/raspberry-pi-5-specs-availability-pricing?utm_source=press.coopApple will have to face an antitrust lawsuit alleging iOS Apple Pay dominance Illustration: The Verge California Northern District Judge Jeffrey White partially denied (PDF) Apple’s request to dismiss a proposed federal class action lawsuit over Apple Pay, reports Reuters. Three credit unions argued Apple violated the Sherman Anti-Trust Act by charging too... #press https://www.theverge.com/2023/9/27/23893434/apple-pay-antitrust-lawsuit-tap-to-pay-digital-wallet?utm_source=press.coopKia’s three-row EV9 electric SUV will start at $54,900 Image: Kia The 2024 Kia EV9 will start at $54,900 for the Light RWD trim before destination fees or adding options like a bigger battery or two extra motors for AWD. When announced earlier this year, the EV9 caught everyone’s attention since there are few (and costly) seven-seater fully-electric vehicles on the... #press https://www.theverge.com/2023/9/27/23893352/kia-ev9-2024-starting-price-cost-announcement?utm_source=press.coopAdobe’s full Photoshop on the web launch includes its popular desktop AI tools Adobe says it no longer has plans for a free-to-use version of the online photo editing software. | Image: Adobe After almost two years in beta, Adobe’s Photoshop on the web service — a simplified online version of the company’s desktop photo editing app —... #press https://www.theverge.com/2023/9/27/23892889/adobe-photoshop-for-the-web-firefly-ai-generative-fill-full-release-price-date?utm_source=press.coopPokémon are coming to the Van Gogh Museum to teach the world about art A comparison of ‘Pikachu with Grey Felt Hat’ and Vincent Van Gogh’s ‘Self Portrait with Grey Felt Hat’ | The Pokémon Company, the Van Gogh Museum If the Pokémon Company’s video teasing its upcoming collaboration with the Van Gogh Museum was already enough to have you thinking about booking a ticket to Amsterdam, the promise... #press https://www.theverge.com/23893271/pokemon-x-van-gogh-museum?utm_source=press.coopLululemon is throwing in the towel on Mirror Lululemon will end hardware sales by the end of the year. | Photo by Amelia Holowaty Krales / The Verge Lululemon is calling it quits on Mirror. And it’s tagging Peloton for help parachuting out of connected fitness. As part of efforts to wind down the business, Bloomberg reports that Lululemon plans on ending hardware sales... #press https://www.theverge.com/2023/9/27/23893249/lululemon-mirror-peloton-connected-fitness?utm_source=press.coopDisney’s password-sharing crackdown has begun Disney CEO Bob Iger foreshadowed the move last month. | Photo by Neilson Barnard/Getty Images Starting on November 1st, Disney Plus will begin restricting password sharing. In Canada. The company announced the change in an email sent to Canadian subscribers. Disney has not provided many details on how it plans to enforce this... #press https://www.theverge.com/2023/9/27/23893231/disney-plus-password-sharing-ban-canada?utm_source=press.coopCounter-Strike 2 is out now Counter-Strike 2 | Image: Valve Counter-Strike 2, the highly anticipated upgrade for CS:GO, has finally arrived. Valve announced today that it’s launching CS2, which comes with some major updates like improved smoke grenades, redesigned maps, and improved network features. After years of rumors, Valve announced CS2 in March and opened up a limited test.... #press https://www.theverge.com/2023/9/27/23893279/valve-counter-strike-2-launch?utm_source=press.coopThe best Xbox controller to buy right now Illustration by Alex Castro / The Verge From basic and affordable to premium and ultra-customizable, these are the best controllers for Xbox. And they work with PCs, too. Continue reading… #press https://www.theverge.com/23025443/best-xbox-controllers-one-series-x-s?utm_source=press.coopMicrosoft is testing a DALL-E-powered text-to-image creator in Paint for Windows 11 Image: Microsoft Microsoft is testing a DALL-E-powered text-to-image creator in Microsoft Paint for Windows 11, the company announced in a blog post. Called Paint Cocreator, the tool creates art based on a description the user types out. Alternatively, users can select an art style,... #press https://www.theverge.com/2023/9/27/23892900/microsoft-dall-e-windows-11-paint-cocreator?utm_source=press.coopChatGPT can now search the web in real time Illustration: The Verge OpenAI posted today that ChatGPT can once more trawl the web for current information, offering answers taken directly from “current and authoritative” sources, which it cites in its responses. The feature, called Browse with Bing, is only open to those with Plus and Enterprise subscriptions for... #press https://www.theverge.com/2023/9/27/23892781/openai-chatgpt-live-web-results-browse-with-bing?utm_source=press.coopEA delists old FIFA titles ahead of its new soccer game’s debut Image: EA EA has delisted all prior FIFA games from major storefronts, including Epic Games, Steam, Switch, Xbox, and PS5. The titles, up to and including FIFA 23, are no longer available for purchase. The move, which was first spotted by analyst MauroNL, comes just two days before the upcoming EA Sports FC 24 is... #press https://www.theverge.com/2023/9/27/23892905/fifa-23-delisted-ea-sports-fc-24?utm_source=press.coopFortnite V-bucks are about to get more expensive Image: Epic Games Fortnite’s in-game currency is getting a price adjustment — and it’ll make V-bucks more expensive in a number of countries. The pricing change goes into effect on October 27th, and it impacts the following countries: Czech Republic, Denmark, Eurozone countries, Hungary, Japan, Norway, Poland, Romania, Sweden,... #press https://www.theverge.com/2023/9/27/23893112/fortnite-v-bucks-pricing-adjustment?utm_source=press.coopChromeOS 117 rolls out with a new look, plus better control over charging and cameras Illustration: The Verge Google is pushing a new ChromeOS update that introduces significant upgrades, including a new look, some useful battery charging controls, accent color accessibility settings, and more (via 9to5Google). ChromeOS, now on stable... #press https://www.theverge.com/2023/9/27/23892651/chromeos-117-stable-release-quick-settings-notifications-adaptive-charging?utm_source=press.coopEpic Games asks the Supreme Court to hear its case against Apple’s App Store rules Illustration: Alex Castro / The Verge After years of back-and-forth battling between Fortnite publisher Epic Games and Apple, the gaming company filed a writ of certiorari asking the US Supreme Court to review a lower court ruling in their antitrust case. Epic has argued... #press https://www.theverge.com/2023/9/27/23892853/epic-games-apple-app-store-supreme-court-antitrust-trial?utm_source=press.coopThe iPhone 15 Pro case market is a minefield right now Two of these case makers guessed right, two did not. Between Apple no longer making leather products and the utter disappointment of the new FineWoven case, there’s more opportunity this year for third-party iPhone case makers than perhaps ever before. But for a lot of manufacturers, the new Action Button in the iPhone... #press https://www.theverge.com/23892671/iphone-15-pro-action-button-case-maker-problems?utm_source=press.coopiPhone 15 Pro users will pay full console price for Resident Evil 4 remake Don’t expect to pay mobile game prices for a console title — even if it’s running on iPhone. | Image: Capcom If you’re looking to grab the recently announced iPhone 15 Pro version of the Resident Evil 4 remake, you’ll be paying full console game prices. According to information... #press https://www.theverge.com/2023/9/27/23892250/iphone-15-pro-resident-evil-4-remake-port-console-price?utm_source=press.coopYale’s new smart locks work with your fingerprint or HomeKey, but not both The Yale Assure Lock 2 Plus works with HomeKey so you can open it with your wrist instead of your hand — if you have an Apple Watch. | Image: Yale Yale has expanded its Assure 2 lineup with two new smart locks: one with support for Apple’s HomeKey and one with a fingerprint reader. Both... #press https://www.theverge.com/2023/9/27/23891513/yale-assure-lock-2-touch-fingerprint-plus-homekey?utm_source=press.coopWe put our faith in Mercedes-Benz’s first-of-its-kind autonomous Drive Pilot feature Why watch the road when you can watch Kylie’s new video instead? | Image: Daniel Golson Drive Pilot is a Level 3 autonomous system, meaning you can take your hands off the wheel and — more notably — eyes off the road during certain conditions. But are we ready to give up... #press https://www.theverge.com/2023/9/27/23892154/mercedes-benz-drive-pilot-autonomous-level-3-test?utm_source=press.coopHow to turn regular photos into Portrait mode photos on an iPhone 15 Add background blur or change the focus point on pictures of your furry friend. | Illustration by Samar Haddad / The Verge Anyone with an iPhone who’s taken a picture of their child or pet knows the Portrait mode dilemma. Portrait mode adds that lovely, soft bokeh effect to the background of... #press https://www.theverge.com/23891219/apple-iphone-15-plus-pro-max-portrait-mode-photos-edit-camera?utm_source=press.coopEU criticizes X over levels of disinformation found on platform Photo by Dursun Aydemir/Anadolu Agency via Getty Images European Union regulators have reprimanded Elon Musk after X, the platform formerly known as Twitter, was found to contain a higher ratio of misinformation and disinformation in a new report. “X, formerly Twitter... #press https://www.theverge.com/2023/9/27/23892145/twitter-x-elon-musk-disinformation-european-union-commission-digital-services-act?utm_source=press.coopJony Ive is reportedly developing an AI gadget with OpenAI’s Sam Altman Altman recently called on former Apple designer Thomas Meyerhoffer — a Jony Ive hire — to create the retina-scanning Orb (pictured) for Altman’s Worldcoin crypto project. | Image: Worldcoin Apple’s former chief design officer, Jony Ive, and OpenAI CEO Sam Altman are allegedly exploring... #press https://www.theverge.com/2023/9/27/23892135/jony-ive-sam-altman-ai-device-openai-ceo-apple-designer?utm_source=press.coopHollywood’s actors are still on strike Photo by Alexi Rosenfeld / Getty Images Hollywood productions are in limbo, even with a new deal between writers and producers, as actors remain on strike over many of the same issues with AI and streaming. Continue reading… #press https://www.theverge.com/2023/7/17/23798246/strike-hollywoods-writers-actors-wga-sag-aftra?utm_source=press.coopThe Writers Guild of America’s strike ends at midnight Photo by Mario Tama / Getty Images After a nearly five-month-long strike, the Writers Guild of America (WGA) is telling its members to lower their picket signs. In a post, the WGA said its Negotiating Committee, WGAW Board, and WGAE Council all voted unanimously to recommend the deal reached with the Alliance of Motion... #press https://www.theverge.com/2023/9/26/23889334/wga-strike-end-hollywood-writers?utm_source=press.coopEufy’s new X8 Pro robot vacuum can detangle hair automatically Eufy Clean X8 Pro with its self-emptying station and app. | Image: Eufy Anker’s Eufy division has a new robot vacuum cleaner with more powerful suction than its other offerings, and which can automatically detangle hair and pet fur from its bottom roller brush. The new $649.99 Eufy Clean X8 Pro vacuum is... #press https://www.theverge.com/2023/9/26/23891423/eufy-clean-x8-pro-robot-vacuum-anker?utm_source=press.coopK-pop group NewJeans will perform this year’s League of Legends Worlds anthem Photo by Gary Miller / FilmMagic The 2023 League of Legends World Championship is taking place in Korea this year, and to celebrate, Riot has tapped one of the country’s hottest bands to perform the annual anthem. Girl group NewJeans — best known for earworms like “Super Shy” — will be... #press https://www.theverge.com/2023/9/26/23885476/newjeans-league-of-legends-worlds-2023-anthem?utm_source=press.coopEufy’s latest security package can track one person across multiple cameras The $219.99 Floodlight Cam E340 is one of four new Eufy security cameras equipped with a dual-camera system. | Image: Eufy Anker’s smart home brand Eufy is revamping its camera lineup with a new SoloCam battery-powered outdoor camera ($199.99), Floodlight Cam E340... #press https://www.theverge.com/2023/9/26/23890980/eufy-security-cross-camera-tracking-ai-solocam-floodlight-doorbell?utm_source=press.coopApple and Google want to shift how you listen to podcasts Image: Apple This is Hot Pod, The Verge’s newsletter about podcasting and the audio industry. Sign up here for more. Hello Hot Podders, Amrita and Ariel here! Today we’re bringing you a co-bylined issue of the newsletter, mostly out of necessity. We’ve got a whole mess of... #press https://www.theverge.com/2023/9/26/23891493/apple-podcasts-overhaul-ios-17-google-ends-podcasts-spotify-translation-open-ai?utm_source=press.coopThe Code Conference 2023 Image: Code We’re live from the Code Conference, featuring interviews with X CEO Linda Yaccarino, AMD CEO Lisa Su, and more. Continue reading… #press https://www.theverge.com/2023/9/26/23890396/code-conference-2023-interviews-news?utm_source=press.coopPeloton co-founder Tom Cortese is stepping down Illustration by Alex Castro / The Verge Tom Cortese, Peloton co-founder and chief product officer, is stepping down from his role. In a press release shared on Tuesday, Peloton says it will replace Cortese with former Twitter executive Nick Caldwell. “After nearly 12 years of pouring myself into Peloton... #press https://www.theverge.com/2023/9/26/23891565/peloton-co-founder-tom-cortese-nick-caldwell-stepping-down?utm_source=press.coopThe Quest 3 is Meta’s last chance to win the headset war before it truly begins The Quest 2 versus the Quest 3. | Image: Meta Meta doesn’t just need another hardware building block — it needs games. Continue reading… #press https://www.theverge.com/2023/9/26/23891486/meta-quest-3-games-connect-2023?utm_source=press.coopNothing launches a smartwatch and earbuds that cost less than $120 combined Image: CMF CMF, the affordability-focused brand owned by Nothing, has launched its first line of products: the Buds Pro, Watch Pro, and a 65W GaN fast charger. The Buds Pro are a pair of wireless earbuds that offer a solid set of features at a £49 / $49 price tag. The buds come with hybrid active noise... #press https://www.theverge.com/2023/9/26/23891328/nothing-cmf-buds-pro-watch-charger?utm_source=press.coopNewegg now takes GPU trade-ins Newegg’s caption for this photo was “Joseph Olmedo of Newegg examines a graphics card to determine its condition.” Joseph, you’re doing great, man. | Image: Newegg Newegg will now take your old GPU off your hands in exchange for a trade-in credit on a new one. The Newegg Trade-In Program, which soft-launched earlier this month but was officially... #press https://www.theverge.com/2023/9/26/23891243/newegg-gpu-trade-in-program?utm_source=press.coopFCC announces plans to resurrect net neutrality rules Photo by Steven Ferdman / Getty Images The US Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has announced plans to reinstate landmark net neutrality rules meant to guarantee fair access to the internet and its information, five years after they were repealed by then-president Donald Trump in 2018. Previous net... #press https://www.theverge.com/2023/9/26/23890527/fcc-net-neutrality-rules-law-usa-internet-access?utm_source=press.coopApple’s Studio Display gets manual controls for its webcam Photo by Becca Farsace / The Verge Apple just released macOS Sonoma, and along with the new 14.0 version of its operating system, there’s an update for its standalone Studio Display monitor that addresses some of our issues with its much-derided webcam (via MacRumors). Now, the Studio Display’s camera... #press https://www.theverge.com/2023/9/26/23891242/apple-studio-display-webcam-control-macos-sonoma?utm_source=press.coopLogitech now sells a $299 folding chair In the end, you’ve got yourself a folding chair. | Image: Logitech Logitech’s gaming division, Logitech G, has teamed up with gaming chair company Playseat to make a fancy foldable racing sim cockpit chair that can be stowed in your closet when not in use. At $299, this budget option to get your race on at... #press https://www.theverge.com/2023/9/26/23890671/logitech-g-playseat-challenge-x-folding-sim-racing-cockpit-chair?utm_source=press.coop15 incredibly useful Windows 11 keyboard shortcuts Illustration by Samar Haddad / The Verge Getting around Windows 11 is a lot easier if you know a keyboard shortcut or five. You can then speed through tasks and across apps without having to fumble around for the mouse and trackpad (or even take your eyes off the screen). These are some of my favorites that I turn to again and again... #press https://www.theverge.com/23890880/windows-11-keyboard-shortcuts-how-to?utm_source=press.coopApple releases macOS Sonoma, with iOS-like widgets and Game Mode macOS Sonoma brings the iOS lock screen to the Mac. | Screenshot: Monica Chin / The Verge Apple injects a little more iOS into the Mac today as it releases macOS Sonoma, aka macOS 14.0. Sonoma brings with it features like persistent desktop widgets, a new iOS-style lock screen, and a game... #press https://www.theverge.com/2023/9/26/23890599/apple-macos-sonoma-14-available-desktop-widgets-game-mode?utm_source=press.coopApple defends Google Search deal in court: ‘There wasn’t a valid alternative’ Photo by Chip Somodevilla / Getty Images Eddy Cue, in a dark suit, peered down at the monitor in front of him. The screens in the Washington, DC, courtroom had briefly malfunctioned and left witnesses with only binders, but now the tech was up and running — showing an image of three iPhones, each... #press https://www.theverge.com/2023/9/26/23891037/apple-eddy-cue-testimony-us-google?utm_source=press.coopWindows 11’s next big update is now available with Copilot, AI-powered Paint, and more Photo by Becca Farsace / The Verge Microsoft is releasing one of its biggest updates to Windows 11 today. It includes access to the new Windows Copilot, AI-powered updates to Paint, Snipping Tool, and Photos, RGB lighting support, a modernized File Explorer, and... #press https://www.theverge.com/2023/9/26/23890621/microsoft-windows-11-update-copilot-paint-snipping-tool-features?utm_source=press.coopThe first trailer for Apple’s sci-fi film Fingernails shows a retrofuturistic romcom Image: Apple Just yesterday, I included Fingernails in a list of movies from the Toronto International Film Festival that would be streaming very soon. And now, we have our very first trailer for the sci-fi romcom, which is coming to Apple TV Plus. Directed by Christos Nikou, Fingernails is set in... #press https://www.theverge.com/23890999/fingernails-trailer-apple-tv-plus-movie?utm_source=press.coopStreaming giants have banded together for lobbying power Most of these streaming services are in the Streaming Innovation Alliance. | Image: Wes Davis / The Verge Streaming companies have formed the Streaming Innovation Alliance (SIA), reported Axios. The new trade group should give companies like Netflix and Disney a solid foundation from which to... #press https://www.theverge.com/2023/9/26/23890778/streaming-companies-trade-group-sia-regulation-net-neutrality?utm_source=press.coopApple Podcasts overhaul pulls in original programming from third-party apps Illustration by Alex Castro / The Verge Apple just made its biggest push in decades to boost original content on its podcast app, which has been refreshed with the recent update to iOS 17. It’s also casting a wider net for its audience by allowing users to connect through third-party... #press https://www.theverge.com/2023/9/26/23890734/apple-podcasts-original-programming-third-party-apps?utm_source=press.coopFTC files a massive antitrust lawsuit against Amazon Illustration by Alex Castro / The Verge The Federal Trade Commission and more than a dozen state attorneys general have filed a sweeping antitrust lawsuit against Amazon, alleging that the e-commerce giant has unlawfully leveraged its market dominance to stamp out would-be competitors. “Our complaint lays out how Amazon... #press https://www.theverge.com/2023/9/26/23809817/amazon-ftc-antitrust-lawsuit-monopoly?utm_source=press.coopThe Creator retreads familiar AI panic territory to stunningly inert effect John David Washington as Joshua in The Creator. | Image: Oren Soffer Gareth Edwards’ new dystopian sci-fi epic is a gorgeous morass of AI doomerism that’s lacking in the way of novel ideas. Continue reading… #press https://www.theverge.com/23889089/the-creator-movie-review-gareth-edwards?utm_source=press.coopThreads is struggling to retain users — but it could still catch up to X Image: The Verge Threads, Instagram’s X (formerly Twitter) competitor, is struggling to keep users around following its blockbuster launch, according to data from Insider Intelligence. The data, which was first reported on by CNBC, suggests that Threads will have far fewer monthly active users than... #press https://www.theverge.com/2023/9/26/23890592/threads-meta-monthly-users-data-x-twitter?utm_source=press.coopBowers & Wilkins’ PX7 S2 noise-canceling headphones have dropped to a new low Bowers & Wilkins’ PX7 S2 offer phenomenal sound and are among our favorite noise-canceling headphones. | Photo by Chris Welch / The Verge Sony’s WH-1000XM5 and Apple’s AirPods Max have attracted so much attention that it’s easy to forget other... #press https://www.theverge.com/2023/9/26/23889103/bowers-wilkins-px7-s2-headphones-apple-airtag-loop-yeedi-vac-2-pro-deal-sale?utm_source=press.coopMicrosoft is going nuclear to power its AI ambitions Satya Nadella, CEO of Microsoft, speaks during an interview in Redmond, Washington, on Wednesday, March 15th, 2023. | Image: Chona Kasinger / Bloomberg via Getty Images Microsoft thinks next-generation nuclear reactors can power its data centers and AI ambitions, according to a job listing for a... #press https://www.theverge.com/2023/9/26/23889956/microsoft-next-generation-nuclear-energy-smr-job-hiring?utm_source=press.coopSAG-AFTRA votes for strike approval for video game performers Image: Sony As one of the twin Hollywood strikes appears to be winding down, SAG-AFTRA has voted to approve strike authorization for video game performers covered under the union’s interactive media agreement. Earlier this week, the writers’ half of the Hollywood strikes reached a tentative agreement... #press https://www.theverge.com/2023/9/26/23890663/sag-aftra-strike-approval-video-game-performers?utm_source=press.coopGoogle Podcasts is going to the graveyard Illustration: Alex Castro / The Verge Google Podcasts is going away. Starting next year, Google will focus on offering podcast access within YouTube Music instead. This change doesn’t come as a complete surprise. In April, Google launched the ability for users in the US to listen to podcasts in YouTube Music without a paid... #press https://www.theverge.com/2023/9/26/23890694/google-podcasts-2024-shutdown-youtube-music?utm_source=press.coopXiaomi dives headfirst into Wear OS with the Watch 2 Pro The Xiaomi Watch 2 Pro makes the leap from a proprietary OS to Wear OS. | Image: Xiaomi Xiaomi announced it’s making the jump to Wear OS for its new Watch 2 Pro. And in true Xiaomi fashion, it’s offering a surprisingly stacked set of features, including body composition analysis and dual-frequency GPS, for an... #press https://www.theverge.com/2023/9/26/23890658/xiaomi-watch-2-pro-wear-os-smartwatch-wearable?utm_source=press.coopWhoop is adding a ChatGPT-powered ‘coach’ Whoop Coach runs on ChatGPT-4. | Image: Whoop Whoop announced it’s adding generative AI to its platform with a new feature called Whoop Coach. Powered by ChatGPT, it’s meant to deliver more personalized recommendations and data insights. Using AI in fitness tech for the sake of personalization isn’t new — though Whoop Coach is an... #press https://www.theverge.com/2023/9/26/23888984/whoop-coach-chatgpt-ai-fitness?utm_source=press.coopXiaomi announces 13T Pro with promise of four major Android updates The Xiaomi 13T Pro in blue. | Image: Xiaomi Xiaomi is launching the 13T and 13T Pro today, two smartphones that will benefit from more Android upgrades than what it’s offered previously. Both are due to receive four major Android updates as well as five... #press https://www.theverge.com/2023/9/26/23890552/xiaomi-13t-pro-price-release-date-specs-features-years-android-security-updates-support?utm_source=press.coopTubi is using ChatGPT to give you better movie recommendations Next time you need something to watch, just ask. | Image: Tubi Tubi’s library of streaming content is huge. And kind of impenetrable. You can watch its many always-on channels or watch something the service’s homescreen recommends, but more likely than not, you’re going to spend too much of your... #press https://www.theverge.com/2023/9/26/23890106/tubi-rabbit-ai-recommendations-movie-show-chatgpt?utm_source=press.coopSpotify’s new social listening feature lets you ‘Jam’ with 32 friends Jam is rolling out globally to all Spotify users on Tuesday, September 26th. | Image: Spotify Spotify just introduced a new social listening feature that lets multiple people DJ for your group party playlists. Rolling out globally today, Spotify Jam allows up to 32 Spotify... #press https://www.theverge.com/2023/9/26/23890594/spotify-jam-collaborative-playlist-listening-feature-date-announcement?utm_source=press.coopHow to order free rapid covid tests from the US government — again Image: Samar Haddad / The Verge Autumn is here, and once again, warnings are going up about the spread of the covid-19 virus — along with the flu and RSV, or respiratory syncytial virus. To try to minimize the upsurge, the US government is once again restarting a program that was last canceled in May 2023 and is again... #press https://www.theverge.com/23510740/covid-free-tests-government-how-to?utm_source=press.coopWhy the First Amendment protects liars Illustration by Cath Virginia / The Verge How a tall tale from a California water official tested the Constitution’s limits. Continue reading… #press https://www.theverge.com/23883027/alvarez-stolen-valor-first-amendment-kosseff-liar-crowded-theater?utm_source=press.coopMattel’s Pictionary Vs. AI leaves the guesswork to the bots Why, that’s not a tiger at all, my gAI. | Image: Mattel Mattel has announced Pictionary Vs. AI, a version of its visual guessing game where an AI model does all the guessing, using computer vision with a smartphone as the medium. The company just announced the game at the 2023 Code Conference, which... #press https://www.theverge.com/2023/9/26/23889925/mattel-pictionary-vs-ai-board-game-google-quick-draw?utm_source=press.coopHow Uber learned to stop fighting and play nice with taxis Image: Gary Coronado / Los Angeles Times via Getty Images Former foes have turned friends. Uber is listing more and more taxi drivers in its app, most recently in Los Angeles. How did the two sides come together? In short, money. Continue reading… #press https://www.theverge.com/2023/9/26/23888950/uber-taxi-driver-referral-third-party-los-angeles?utm_source=press.coopEVgo is trying to turn around complaints about slow, broken EV chargers Image: EVgo Imagine buying a new car, and suddenly, most gas stations are broken. That’s a reality new electric vehicle owners are finding when it comes to EV charging stations supplied by significant players like ChargePoint, Electrify America, and EVgo. Many stations often result in... #press https://www.theverge.com/2023/9/26/23889795/evgo-renew-ev-electric-car-chaging-reliability-update?utm_source=press.coopSony announces Olivia Rodrigo edition of its LinkBuds S earbuds Image: Sony Sony is releasing a custom pair of its LinkBuds S earbuds designed in collaboration with pop star Olivia Rodrigo. And the partnership goes beyond just style: this pair of the LinkBuds S will include two custom EQ modes that are optimized for each of Rodrigo’s albums, Sour and Guts. ... #press https://www.theverge.com/2023/9/26/23889814/sony-olivia-rodrigo-linkbuds-s-announced-guts-sour?utm_source=press.coopLG dives into the foldable laptop fray The LG Gram Fold in its array of orientations. | Image: LG Following the likes of Lenovo, Asus, and most recently HP, LG has announced a new laptop built around a single large foldable display. The device is called the LG Gram Fold, and it’ll be available to buy online in South Korea for... #press https://www.theverge.com/2023/9/26/23890518/lg-gram-fold-foldable-laptop-oled-display-17-inch-price-release-dates-specs-features?utm_source=press.coopTechno-fixes to climate change aren’t living up to the hype Illustration by Hugo Herrera / The Verge An updated road map for combating climate change pours cold water on the idea that unproven technologies can play a major role in averting disaster. Today, the International Energy Agency (IEA) updated its road map for the energy sector... #press https://www.theverge.com/2023/9/26/23889066/climate-change-international-energy-agency-roadmap-hydrogen-carbon-capture?utm_source=press.coopValve suddenly says SteamVR 2.0 is now in beta — as headset rumors swirl Half-Life: Alyx. | Image: Valve Valve built up to virtual reality for a very long time — and never stopped, but it also seemed to slow its roll while nurturing the Steam Deck gaming handheld. But for weeks now, Valve sleuth Brad Lynch has been tracking changes to SteamVR that suggest the wheels are turning... #press https://www.theverge.com/2023/9/25/23890229/valve-steamvr-2-0-beta-announce?utm_source=press.coopThe DJI Mini 4 Pro is the first mini with binocular vision in every direction Video by DJI / GIF by The Verge Now that Skydio has exited the consumer drone business and will never sell me the miniature self-flying drone of my dreams, I’m looking to DJI instead. The fancy marketing for its just-announced $759 DJI Mini 4 Pro suggests we’re at least on the way — because it’s the... #press https://www.theverge.com/2023/9/25/23890019/dji-mini-4-pro-price-release-date?utm_source=press.coopYouTube is axing its ad-free Premium Lite subscription plan Raise your hand if you never heard of YouTube Premium Lite but now wish it was available in your area. | Illustration: Alex Castro / The Verge After YouTube spent two years piloting Premium Lite, a lower-cost subscription plan for ad-free video viewing in select countries, the platform is pulling... #press https://www.theverge.com/2023/9/25/23889917/youtube-premium-lite-subscription-discontinued-retired?utm_source=press.coopGmail’s basic HTML view will go to the Google graveyard in 2024 Illustration by Alex Castro / The Verge Google will send Gmail’s basic HTML view sailing into the great beyond starting in January 2024, after which time everyone who uses it will be switched to the service’s far more modern “Standard” view. The change appears to have been announced around September 19th in a... #press https://www.theverge.com/2023/9/25/23889791/gmail-basic-html-view-discontinued-2024?utm_source=press.coopUnity finally addressed developers’ biggest questions about its new pricing model Illustration by Cath Virginia / The Verge Unity executive Marc Whitten participated in a fireside chat that addressed the company’s new pricing program, the backlash it caused, and what it’s doing to win back developer trust. Continue reading… #press https://www.theverge.com/2023/9/25/23889346/unity-pricing-model-fireside-chat-overview?utm_source=press.coopFacebook can be sued over biased ad algorithm, says court Illustration: Nick Barclay / The Verge Facebook can be sued over allegations that its advertising algorithm is discriminatory, a California state court of appeals ruled last week. The decision stems from a class action lawsuit filed against Facebook in 2020, which accused the company of not showing insurance ads to... #press https://www.theverge.com/2023/9/25/23889747/facebook-biased-ad-algorithm-aclu-court?utm_source=press.coopNissan’s racy new EV concept previews an all-electric future in Europe Nissan’s Concept 20-23. | Image: Nissan Nissan is previewing a new sporty, Micro Machines-looking all-electric concept vehicle for Europe that signals its plans to go all-electric in the continent by 2030. Designed by Nissan’s London design team, the non-production EV hatchback... #press https://www.theverge.com/2023/9/25/23889481/nissan-ev-concept-20-23-europe-electrification-ambitions?utm_source=press.coopNissan’s racy new EV concept previews an all-electric future in Europe Nissan’s Concept 20-23. | Image: Nissan Nissan is previewing a new sporty, Micro Machines-looking all-electric concept vehicle for Europe that signals its plans to go all-electric in the continent by 2030. Designed by Nissan’s London design team, the non-production EV hatchback (called... #press https://www.theverge.com/2023/9/25/23889481/nissan-concept-20-23-europe-electrification-ambitions?utm_source=press.coopFestival movies you can stream from home very soon Pain Hustlers. | Image: Brian Douglas / Netflix Film festivals like TIFF are a great chance to get a sense of what’s coming to theaters in the coming months, but they’re also a good way to preview the upcoming streaming calendar. Last year in Toronto, for example, Netflix gave an early look at two of its biggest... #press https://www.theverge.com/23889070/tiff-2023-movies-streaming-netflix-hulu-apple-tv-plus?utm_source=press.coop