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I reviewed Nioh 3 back in January of this year, and it quickly cemented itself as one of the best soulslike games in my eyes.

Changes it made to the series' formula, including a clear distinction between Samurai and Ninja styles, as well as a shift to vast explorable open maps, really helped it to stand out from the pack.

Review info

Platform reviewed: PC
Available on: PS5, Xbox Series X|S, PC
Release date: August 19, 2026

Now the game's first of two major expansions, Hell Rising, has arrived. It's not as expansive as Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree or Lies of P: Overture (it took me around 8-10 hours to complete all main missions and a handful of side quests), but it is more Nioh 3 in the best way possible.

Long story short, if you enjoyed Nioh 3 and played it all the way to completion, you'll find a lot more to love about Hell Rising. You can expect all-new enemy types, challenging boss encounters, a new weapon archetype, as well as a sprinkling of added skills, ninjutsu, and onmyo magic.

You will need to be caught up in order to properly access the DLC, though. Hell Rising requires you to have beaten the base game, and you'll want to be rocking a competent endgame build to face its higher difficulty and level recommendations. Enemies hit harder than ever, and bosses are among the toughest in Nioh 3 as a whole. So be sure to kit yourself in Divine tier gear (ideally with your preferred set bonuses) before jumping in.

Beyond the grave

(Image credit: Koei Tecmo)

Nioh 3: Hell Rising takes place in 1651 during Japan's short-lived Keian era.

After being appointed Shogun at the end of the base game, protagonist Takechiyo learns of a resurgence of the Crucible and the demonic forces brought on by it. So, they travel to the Keian era with their spirit allies in order to quell the threat for good.

It's a simple setup, but I enjoyed Hell Rising's narrative. New allies join the fight alongside Takechiyo, including Yagyu Jubei and Rodrigo—a swordsman and politician hailing from Spain. New cutscenes typically bookend major boss fights, and I must say a late-game twist has beautifully set up the upcoming second expansion (a release date for which has yet to be revealed).

Best bit

(Image credit: Koei Tecmo)

Area variety is really impressive in Nioh 3: Hell Rising. You'll traverse water-logged villages, skirt around an active volcano, as well as invade a laboratory staffed by foreign alchemists looking to harness yokai power for themselves. Levels have a surprising amount of verticality, too, helping the new map to feel suitably dense.

You do have kind of a test to pass in order to access the DLC proper, and that comes in the form of Yagyu Jubei.

He's essentially the gatekeeper boss for Hell Rising; the game's way of checking if you're truly ready for the challenges ahead. I actually found him to be among the hardest of the new bosses. He's fast, and commands wind and water elemental attacks. Oh, he's also really good at dodging through your ninjutsu techniques, so building up status effects on him is a challenge in and of itself.

Before the fight, though, the DLC almost immediately introduces you to the new Hoko and Shield weapon archetype. I think they're a fantastic addition to Nioh 3's roster of armaments, and there are versions for both Samurai and Ninja styles.

Your gameplan with the Hoko and Shield is to time your strong attacks (and certain Martial Art skills) to negate incoming enemy attacks. They're a more defensive weapon by nature, and its skill tree includes abilities to both engage and disengage enemies at a distance, as well as ranged attacks such as tossing the shield in various ways. It's a high-risk, high-reward weapon type that I ended up using for a decent chunk of the DLC's runtime.

I loved my time with Nioh 3: Hell Rising, and I'm now eagerly anticipating the second expansion and all the additions and new bosses that brings. I do have a couple of issues with Hell Rising, though, that I hope get addressed in future content.

For one, bosses from the base game get reused quite frequently. You'll see many of the base game's yokai bosses at least once in Hell Rising (one particularly annoying one actually appeared twice).

I found it a shame because the DLC's new bosses are all wonderful, engaging challenges. Recycling these older bosses with no noticeable changes felt like padding, and weren't much of a challenge beyond their larger health pools and higher attack power.

There were also some particularly mean enemy ambushes late on in the DLC, particularly in the Crucible zone that acts as its capstone. You'll be shoved into tight corridors and tiny rooms fairly frequently here, as mobs of yokai swarm in. It was the only time during the DLC that I felt the game was being just a touch unfair.

Should I play Nioh 3: Hell Rising?Play it if...

You loved Nioh 3
Yes, this one's fairly obvious, but I think Hell Rising is currently the pinnacle of what Nioh 3 has to offer. If you loved the base game and you're simply wanting more, you'll get a lot out of this first expansion.

You're excited for more build variety options
The Hoko and Shield weapon, along with all-new ninjutsu, onmyo magic, and yokai Soul Cores, all expand your options when it comes to building a Samurai or Ninja (or both!) kit that best suits your playstyle. Better yet, you can take it all back into the base game if you're keen to replay it on the higher Shogun's Journey difficulty.

Don't play it if...

You were hoping for a meatier package
At 8-10 hours, Hell Rising is a relatively bite-sized expansion. It's still excellent at this length, but if you're wanting something more sizable, I'd recommend waiting until the second expansion comes out so you can play both back to back.

Accessibility features

Nioh 3: Hell Rising's accessibility features remain the same as they were in the base game. For more information, check out our full Nioh 3 review in order to get a brief overview of what's on offer.

How I reviewed Nioh 3: Hell Rising

(Image credit: Koei Tecmo)

Nioh 3: Hell Rising took me approximately 8-10 hours to finish on my first playthrough of it. That included all main missions and bosses, exploring most of the new map, and completing a handful of side quests.

I played the expansion on PC, carrying my base game character from my original Nioh 3 review into the DLC. I played through Hell Rising with the Valve Steam Controller (2026), and used my RIG 900 Max HS gaming headset for more immersive audio.

First reviewed August 2026

Nioh 3 is one of the best soulslike games I've played in quite some time, and now that I've completed and reviewed the new Hell Rising expansion, it's only gone up in my estimations. Hell Rising is an excellent start to Nioh 3's two-part downloadable content series, and I can't wait for its follow-up.

Before playing Hell Rising for myself, though, I had the chance to interview key development staff at Team Ninja about the expansion — namely, game directors Masaki Fujita and Atsushi Takahashi as well as producer Kohei Shibata.

The three discussed various aspects of Nioh 3: Hell Rising, including its plot following on from the base game, its new weapon types, and some collectible additions making their debut in the expansion. Read on if you want to learn more from the developers themselves before you dive into the hellish Edo-Keian period for yourself.

Bloody succession

(Image credit: Koei Tecmo)

In terms of story, Hell Rising picks up right after the events of Nioh 3.

"The DLC takes place after the main story," said game director Masaki Fujita, "and much of its content assumes that players have already cleared the base game." As such, you do need to have beaten Nioh 3's base game to access the DLC in the first place.

"At the end of the main game, the protagonist became shogun," Fujita continued, "and the events and incidents that unfold during the shogun's reign involve key figures and instigators, as well as people on the shogunate side who worked to resolve them—in other words, the shogun's retainers. Many of the characters appearing in the DLC fill one of those roles."

One character Fujita is referring to here is Yagyu Jubei, a popular historical figure who has been portrayed in countless media. You might know the name from Capcom's Onimusha 2: Samurai's Destiny, in which the main protagonist is named as such. He makes an appearance in Nioh 3: Hell Rising, donning the iconic eyepatch he's often portrayed with.

Curiously, Hell Rising takes place in 1651 — a year after the real Yagyu Jubei's death.

(Image credit: Koei Tecmo)

On Hell Rising's premise and setting of the Keian period, Fujita added: "The Keian era comes right after Takechiyo’s [Nioh 3's player character] reign as the third shogun. The events that unfold in that period are heavily shaped by the influence of his rule. In this title, by leaping through time into the future, you come to witness both the light and dark sides of your own reign. We’d like you to see how that experience is reflected in the conclusion across both DLC Vol. 1 and Vol. 2."

Fujita also commented on what Hell Rising's new setting allowed Team Ninja to achieve beyond its efforts with the base game, saying: "In the base game, the Edo period was only represented by a small part of Edo Castle, and Bakumatsu [Nioh 3's final major area and time period] was so devastated that it couldn’t really convey the culture and customs of the Edo period.

"So this is the first time in the series we’ve had a stage that truly feels like the Edo period. We’ve scattered little Edo-period details throughout, and I’m most looking forward to seeing how players react to them."

Shields up

(Image credit: Koei Tecmo)

Before playing Hell Rising, I was curious to learn more about its new weapon type: the Hoko and Shield. This versatile weapon pairs a short spear with a large shield, and my feelings of its in-game mechanics seem to reflect Team Ninja's plan for this new archetype.

"There are actually two weapon types: Hoko and Shield and Ninja Hoko and Shield," explained game director Atsushi Takahashi.

"Their defining trait is that they combine offense and defense into one. Normally, you'd deal with an enemy attack by guarding or evading, then strike during the opening that follows.

"With these weapons, however, you can read the timing of an enemy's attack and, by parrying at just the right moment, deflect it and immediately counter with your own attack."

Personally, I found it not to be a parry in the traditional sense; that's something Nioh 3's Samurai style actually already has built into its guarding via the Deflect skill. The Hoko and Shield, meanwhile, more so negate the enemy's attack, allowing you to power through it without taking damage.

"In Samurai style," Takahashi added, "the Hoko and Shield lets you time strong attacks and certain Martial Arts to knock away enemy blows with your shield while driving in with the hoko spear.

"Meanwhile, the Ninja Hoko and Shield is a more versatile weapon. It doesn't just deflect attacks with the shield — it can also be thrown, ridden, and woven together with spear attacks. You can launch techniques, leap into the air, and even hurl the shield from above, letting you move freely and keep enemies off balance."

Takahashi seemed especially proud of this new weapon type, noting that it had "been designed as a high-risk, high-reward weapon, where you throw yourself into enemy attacks and earn a big payoff by deflecting them at just the right moment. I'd love for players to take it up against the tougher enemies in Hell Rising."

Raising hell

(Image credit: Koei Tecmo)

I questioned the team on miscellaneous additions and new features players can expect with the release of Nioh 3: Hell Rising. Fujita noted that while there aren't any dedicated new game modes coming with the DLC, "we are adding 'Enlightened One's Journey' for the game's third playthrough, as well as 'Hundred Demon Realms Picture Scroll,' an expanded piece of content built on the idea of the picture scroll mode from previous titles."

Takahashi added: "We haven't added any new traversal options, but the DLC does expand the content through collectible story pieces such as notes and letters in [the form of] 'Nioh Story Fragments'. These not only reveal more about the characters' inner lives, but also let you feel the culture of Edo's townspeople and the reign of Takechiyo."

I also asked if players can expect any improvements to performance, namely with the game's PC port. My experience at launch (and since) has been largely fine, but I know that's not the case for everyone. Fujita said: "We don't have a specific timeline, but we are currently looking into performance improvements to make the game even more comfortable to play. Once we have a clearer path forward, we plan to address them as appropriate."

Finally, given publisher Koei Tecmo's staunch support of the Nintendo Switch 2 platform — including the release of quality ports like Dynasty Warriors Origins, Nobunaga's Ambition: Awakening, and Fatal Frame 2: Crimson Butterfly Remake — I couldn't help but quiz the team on if they thought Nioh 3 would be a good fit for the handheld platform.

This is where game producer Kohei Shibata chimed in, saying: "I can't comment on Nioh 3, but the Nintendo Switch 2 version of Wo Long: Fallen Dynasty Complete Edition, also developed by Team Ninja, is scheduled to launch on September 3. Please look forward to that as well!"

• Fans have descended on Sony's new 'It Happens on PS5' ad featuring Grand Theft Auto 6
• They're protesting the decision to end physical disc production in January 2028
• The ad campaign also highlights other upcoming games like Marvel's Wolverine and God of War Laufey

PlayStation fans still angry with Sony's plan to end physical game disc production have brigaded yet another video comment section, this time a PS5 ad featuring Grand Theft Auto 6.

Sony has just launched the 'It Happens on PS5' physical ad campaign across the world, which highlights "the biggest moments of play" featuring games such as Marvel’s Wolverine, 007 First Light, and God of War Laufey.

"Today, we’re launching a new It Happens on PS5 hero advert highlighting what’s available on PS5 as well as what’s ahead for players in the coming months," the accompanying PS blog reads.

"The advert invites players to discover what PS5 makes possible, taking viewers on a fast-paced journey through bold and unexpected moments, featuring larger-than-life scenes, from Giannis Antetokounmpo’s elite basketball skills that get the streets bouncing to a high-speed jet ski chase."

GTA 6 is also featured ahead of the game's November 19 launch, and while some fans are feeling the excitement, many are continuing to voice their disappointment with Sony and its decision to kill game discs in January 2028.

After previously swarming the comment section of the most recent Marvel's Wolverine cinematic trailer, as well as several other PlayStation videos, fans have now descended on the 'It Happens on PS5' ad to make their thoughts known.

"Discs used to happen on PS5," the top comment reads, as another user wrote, "It happens that there used to be discs."

If you continue scrolling through the comments, it's difficult to pinpoint any positive mention of the ad, with the majority either urging Sony to backtrack on its decision or criticising the company.

"I used to buy PS products for more than 30 years. It won't happen again," a fan said.

Despite the ongoing pushback, and after remaining silent on the matter for weeks, Sony CFO Lin Tao recently addressed the situation during the company's Q1 2026 earnings announcement, confirming that it is "cautiously" moving forward with its decision (via IGN).

While we know upcoming games like Marvel's Wolverine and God of War Laufey will have physical discs at launch, GTA 6's physical edition won't, and will instead offer a digital code in a box, which has also added to the controversy.

Take-Two Interactive CEO Strauss Zelnick recently explained the reasoning for this decision, saying, "Our business is well over 90% digitally distributed. It's already a digital business."

• Casio has another step-counting smartwatch for your consideration
• The Casio F-B100W is now going on sale outside of Japan
• Daily steps can be monitored on your phone or the watch itself

Casio's commitment to adding modern fitness tracking features to its classic retro-style smartwatches, is continuing apace, with a new watch model that's now widely available outside of its home country of Japan.

The Casio F-B100W (via Phandroid) is very much in the traditional Casio style when it comes to aesthetics, with the familiar LCD screen and rubber-like resin band, but there are some smarts built into the device too.

It'll link with an app on your phone for a start, which lets you control various watch settings from Android or iOS. It also acts as a phone finder, so you can use your timepiece to get your phone to make a sound, should you misplace it.

There's also step counting included here, so you can set goals when it comes to getting your steps in, and see your progress through the day — either through the connected mobile app or on the screen of the F-B100W itself.

Features and pricing

The watch comes with a companion app (Image credit: Casio)

Other features worth noting are calendar, timer, and stopwatch tools, plus a dual world time zone display option that lets you pick from around 300 cities across the globe. The replaceable battery should last you a couple of years.

Casio is certainly leaning into the retro-meets-modern angle, as you can see from one of the promotional images at the top of this article: newspaper cuttings (remember those?) announcing the watch features, alongside an image of the device itself.

If Reddit is anything to go by, the new model could be a hit: "A watch I'd actually buy," writes one commenter who loves "the retro aesthetic", while another simply says "oh man that's absolutely beautiful".

The Casio F-B100W is now available in the UK in black or green for £55. It hasn't made its way to the Casio US store yet, but based on similar models, is likely to be priced at around $95. It doesn't look as though the watch will be available directly in Australia.

• The Sonos app on iOS now works with Live Activities and Dynamic Island
• Controls remain on screen for 15 minutes after playback stops
• Album art and full Watch/CarPlay support will arrive soon

Sonos has updated its iPhone app to support Live Activities and the Dynamic Island. Posting on the r/sonos subreddit, Liz from Sonos says that "We’re excited to finally bring back Sonos control from the iOS lock screen, but in an all-new way with iOS Live Activities. We know this is a much requested, anticipated, and needed feature, and we can’t wait for you to try it out."

The feature is off by default but you can enable it in the latest version of the app by going into Account > App Preferences > Live Activity.

Once you've enabled the feature, simply start playback and close the app. The Live Activity will show the current speaker group or room you last played audio on, and it gives you volume and transport controls. Those controls will be visible when your phone is locked, but you'll need to use Face ID, Touch ID or a passcode to unlock the device to change playback.

To make the Live Activity go away, just swipe it off the screen.

What's missing from the Sonos Live Activities support

This is what you'll see when you tap on the Sonos interface in your phone's Dynamic Island (Image credit: Sonos)

Some features haven't been implemented yet. Sonos' app doesn't yet support album art in the Live Activity, although Liz says that "alternative ways to enhance the lock screen experience are being explored."

Live Activities are also used by the Apple Watch and with CarPlay, but Sonos hasn't implemented the feature for those platforms yet. That means the Live Activity will appear on your Apple Watch or on your Car's displays, but the on-screen controls won't do anything.

If you'd rather not use the Sonos app to control your audio, for example because you use Direct Control from a compatible service, AirPlay or Bluetooth) Sonos says that "you can still use the local playback controls that appear on screen or the Live Activity. You can choose which you prefer to use."

Live Activities were introduced in iOS 16.2, and Sonos's version is rolling out just weeks before the next version of iOS, iOS 27, drops. The feature will work just as well in the next iOS, and Sonos says that while there's no news to share right now "the teams have been exploring the new capabilities [iOS 27] has in Beta."

Thinking of buying a new TV?

Try our TV size and model finder! You tell it how far you sit from your TV, we'll tell you what size to buy based on viewing angle advice from image quality experts, and we'll recommend our three top TVs at that size for different prices.

The U.S. and Iran missed a deadline to begin peace talks this week. The monthslong war has depleted U.S. resources. And, what to know about Alaska's U.S. Senate seat primary.

(Image credit: Jim Watson)

Shokz makes some of the best open-ear headphones for exercise and fitness enthusiasts. With the unique bone conduction tech, solid audio quality and comfortable designs, I'm always going to give them a shoutout when they're on sale. And that's what's happening right now, with several top-rated models reduced in both the US and the UK.

To start, in the US, you can pick up the Shokz OpenRun Pro 2 at Amazon for $139.95 (was $179.95). That's a return to the lowest price we've seen this year and only slightly more expensive than the previous record low on Black Friday. If you don't want to wait until November for the chance to get that price again, now's a great time to pick up a pair.

We said that the OpenRun Pro 2 are "the ideal runner’s headphones" in our 4.5-star review, praising the improvements to audio quality in the latest model, the excellent battery life, and stable fit. That's why we've picked them as the best running headphones you can buy right now.

Meanwhile, there's a much bigger Shokz sale at Amazon UK, which features the Shokz OpenRun for £94 (was £129.95), as well as savings of up to 30% on several other models, including the OpenFit 2+, OpenFit Air, and OpenDots.

I've picked out the OpenRun, in particular, because even though they are an older model, they are still a great buy — especially if you're unsure about the bone conduction tech and want to try a more budget-friendly model. Again, these received an impressive 4.5-stars in our Shokz OpenRun review.

Today's best Shokz deals

If you've been waiting for a deal on some of the best bone conduction headphones available right now, then here's your chance to bag it. Not only do the Shokz OpenRun Pro 2 boast outstanding sound and a comfortable fit, but, most importantly, you can stay fully aware of your surroundings while still enjoying your favourite music, making them great for running, exercising, and many more fitness uses. This is the cheapest we've seen them all year and an offer that was only beaten once before during last year's Black Friday sales.View Deal

If you're in the UK, here's a strong saving on some of the best bone conduction headphones for runners. Even with age, they offer impressive audio quality, a comfortable fit and useful safety features. The Shokz OpenRun also boast an eight-hour battery life, but you can fast-charge them for ten minutes before going for a run in order to grab a full 90 minutes of juice. This deal is just £5 more than the previous record-low.View Deal

Jump to...

Inkjet printers
Ink tank printers
Laser printers

Whether you're looking for a cheap printer for back-to-school or upgrading your office setup, now is a great time to buy. I'm tracking all the best printer deals on some of our top-performing inkjet, ink tank, and laser printers.

For most home, dorm room, and home office use, I recommend ink tank printers. They work the same as inkjet models, sspraying liquid ink on the page, but the bottled ink refills are much cheaper than cartridges, and companies like Epson, HP, and Canon tend to include free ink in the box to save you even more money.

For business use, a laser printer is the best pick for fast, high-volume document printing where the text is sharp and detailed. However, some higher-grade ink tank printers come close for small businesses. You'll find my favorite printer deals below, including some of the best home printers and best ink tank printers we've tested.

Best printer deals: Editor's picks

The Canon MegaTank G3270 is our top pick budget ink tank printer for most people. View Deal

EcoTank ET-4800: was $299.99 now $199.99
This entry-level ink tank features everything most home users, students, and remote workers need, including print, scan, copy, and fax, and ADF. View Deal

Color Laserjet Pro 4201dw Wireless Printer: was $699 now $529
This HP laser printer impressed us during tests, with up to 35ppm print speeds in both black and color delivering rich text documents. It also includes automatic two-sided printing.View Deal

Best printer deals: Quick links

• Best Buy: Save on printers, ink, and toners
• Walmart: Deals on HP, Epson, Canon and more
• Newegg: Savings on printers, scanners, and printing supplies
• Brother: Printer deals for the home, office, and business
• Canon: Discount inkjet and ink tank printers
• Epson: Over 40% off Epson printers
• HP: Weekly deals on home and office printers

Best printer deals: Inkjets

An ultra-cheap home printer, the Canon Pixma TR4720 is an inkjet that has more features than you might expect for the price. It can print, copy, scan, and fax, boasts an automatic document feeder, and even lets you automatically print double-sided. View Deal

Envy 6155e Wireless All-In-One Color Inkjet Printer: was $159.99 now $99.99
This wireless all-in-one printer includes a three-month Instant Ink trial. Automatic two-sided printing, scanning, copying, borderless photo support, and AI-enhanced page formatting.View Deal

Pixma TR8620a all-in-one inkjet printer: was $215.99 now $199.99
Canon's Pixma TR8620a is an all-in-one printer that's packed with features. Sure, it prints, scans, copies and sends faxes, but it also includes auto-double-sided printing, automatic document feeder, and and relatively quick print speeds compared to other budget printers around this price. View Deal

Canon’s professional-grade printer uses ten long-life pigment inks to turn out striking photos on A3+ paper and banners. As we found out during our review, the Canon imagePROGRAF PRO-310 is an expensive and feature-light print-only inkjet with all the emphasis on print quality, which is superb. View Deal

Best printer deals: Ink tanks

MegaTank G3270: was $248.99 now $159
Our top budget ink tank, this MegaTank model from Canon delivers high-volume, low-cost printing. You'll find a few features missing to keep the price low - but if you don't need auto-double-sided printing or a touchscreen interface, that won't be an issue. Ideal for a home, dorm room, or home office setup.

Read our full reviewView Deal

EcoTank ET-2400 Supertank Color Printer: was $189.99 now $169.99
This all-in-one inkjet printer prints, scans and copies while offering Wi-Fi and USB connectivity for flexible setup. Its refillable ink tank system replaces traditional cartridges, and the compact design includes a 100-sheet rear paper tray, flatbed scanner and support for everyday home and small office printing.View Deal

The HP Smart Tank 6001 adds automatic two-sided printing to its print, scan, and copy capabilities, while the refillable ink tank system and up to three years of included ink make it a practical choice for busy households.View Deal

EcoTank ET-4800 Wireless All-in-One: was $299.99 now $199.99
Refillable EcoTank ink system with up to 2 years of ink included in the box, automatic document feeder (ADF) for multi-page scans and copies, fax capability, and both wireless and Ethernet connectivity. Print, scan, and copy handled through the Epson Smart Panel app.View Deal

Smart Tank 7001: was $429.99 now $289.89
HP’s refillable inkjet is a neat but basic all-in-one desktop design with self-healing wi-fi, Bluetooth and auto-duplex mode, and excellent all-round print quality as revealed by our in-depth review. View Deal

EcoTank ET-8550: was $749.99 now $671
This wide-format all-in-one combines six-color cartridge-free printing, 13 x 19-inch media support, scanning, copying, automatic duplex printing, speeds up to 16ppm, mobile controls, and refillable high-capacity ink tanks.

In the UK: now £629 (was £780)View Deal

EcoTank ET-15000: was $700 now $450
This 4-in-1 ink tank printer lets you print in tabloid (A3+) at low costs. Extra features include a 250-sheet tray capacity, duplex printing, and a 35-sheet ADF. View Deal

Pixma G6020 ink tank printer: was $323.99 now $249
The Canon Pixma G6020 can print, copy, and scan, while features include an auto-document feeder, 250-sheet front tray, and 100-sheet rear tray. At up to 13ipm (color), it’s not got super-fast print speeds, but will be enough for the home, home office, or casual small business use. View Deal

Best printer deals: Laser

imageCLASS LBP6030w Monochrome Wireless Laser Printer: was $140.99 now $87.99
This budget laser printer from Canon includes an automatic document feeder and a compact design that makes it very suitable for home office use. View Deal

LaserJet M209dw Wireless Printer: was $199 now $159
The HP LaserJet M209dw is monochrome laser printer designed for small business and home office use. Top features here include an automatic document feeder and auto-duplex for printing on both sides without manually turning over the paper. 30ppm single-sided printing is decently quick, too. View Deal

Laserjet Pro 4001dn Printer: was $449 now $289
A fast monochrome laser printer with speeds up to 42ppm, automatic duplex printing, 1200dpi output, Gigabit Ethernet, AirPrint support, and a recommended monthly volume of 750 to 4,000 pages for busy home offices and businesses.

Read our full reviewView Deal

imageCLASS MF465dw laser printer: was $540.99 now $317.24
This fast all-in-one laser printer handles printing, scanning, copying, and faxing in a single compact machine. It produces up to 42 pages per minute and includes automatic two-sided printing.View Deal

Color Laserjet Pro 4201dw Wireless Printer: was $699 now $529
A color laser printer delivering up to 35ppm in both black and color, with automatic duplex printing, 512MB memory, ImageREt 2400 technology, a 4-line LCD, and support for busy offices printing up to 4,000 pages monthly. In his review of this model, our printer editor Jim rated it even higher than the 4001dn, stating: "I love this laser printer’s rich black text, and hate the retro dial."View Deal

Color imageCLASS LBP646Cdw Wireless Laser Printer: was $378.99 now $229.99
The Canon Color imageCLASS LBP646Cdw is a wireless color laser printer with a fair 26ppm print speed in both mono and color. Features here include two-sided printing, a 250-sheet tray capacity, and a small footprint for small business or home office use. View Deal

imageCLASS LBP122dw laser printer: was $194.99 now $129.99
The Canon imageCLASS LBP122dw is a no-frills wireless mono laser printer that's compact enough for home and small office environments. Despite the price, there's a few great features here, including automatic double-sided printing and fairly quick mono print speeds. View Deal

• Chinese government moves ahead with Windows 10 replacement
• Heavily customized Windows edition will be replaced by domestic alternative
• Windows 10 official end of life was October 14, 2024

The Chinese government has revealed plans to finally remove Windows 10 from its systems as it looks to move towards home-made alternatives.

A report from Bloomberg claims the Chinese Ministry of State Security has told some state-linked entities to start uninstalling the software as part of a multi-year plan to remove dependence on Western technology.

The version of Windows 10 is developed by C&M Information Technologies Co (CMIT) which was formed in 2016 as a joint venture between Microsoft and the state-owned China Electronics Technology Group Corp in a bid to make sure Windows 10 was compliant with the government's security requirements.

A welcome change?

There's no official confirmation as to why the decision has been made now, with CMIT reportedly planning to retire the software in February 2027, in line with a government campaign to curb the use of foreign technology.

Bloomberg notes the move comes just weeks before US President Donald Trump is set to meet with Chinese premier Xi Jinping, where security concerns will no doubt be high.

“Microsoft is not aware of a security incident affecting this product, which continues to receive regular security updates,” a spokesperson for the US company told Bloomberg. “We have nothing further to share.”

Windows 10 famously saw its end of life in October 2024, as Microsoft retired the software in order to focus on newer editions.

However some users were initially able to get extra support until 2026, a deadline which was surprisingly extended even further recently, with Microsoft's Extended Security Updates (ESU) scheme now indicating support will run through to October 2027.

The move was slow to catch on, as a study in July 2026 found one in six PCs still ran the older software as opposed to 78.8% for Windows 11 - with healthcare and pharmaceuticals (23%), consumer and retails (23%) and manufacturing (18%) among the industries most likely to still be running Windows 10, with SMBs (21.4%) more likely to be running the outgoing OS compared with enterprises (16.6%).

This is especially concerning as the average Windows 10 device has around three times as many active CVEs (1,903) as a Windows 11 devices (652).

Reddit is testing AI-narrated versions of selected text posts, with Read/Play controls that keep the original thread intact. Here’s how the experiment works.

The post Reddit Turns Text Posts Into AI Videos: How the Test Works appeared first on TechRepublic.

Software security was built around human development.

People wrote, reviewed and deployed code. Now machines are taking over.

In a recent paper, Anthropic reports that more than 80% of the code merged into its production codebase is authored by their AI model, Claude.

The same capabilities that make developers more productive are changing the economics of cyberattacks.

While adversaries still define the objective, machines can generate the payloads, test variants, adapt code to different environments and repeat the process at a velocity that security programs can’t match.

Speed is Marginalizing Security Controls

Most enterprise software security workflows assume there is time for review. Code is written, scanned, tested, approved and deployed. If something suspicious happens later, security teams investigate and respond.

That model breaks down when software moves from prompt to execution in minutes.

AI-generated code can become a script, dependency, automation job or infrastructure change almost immediately. While development agents can modify files, resolve packages and run commands.

Human reviewers are no longer in the loop.

Attackers can use the same mechanics to generate exploits, test evasion techniques and adjust payload behavior for different targets. This creates more variation with fewer stable indicators for defenders to recognize.

While AI-assisted analysis can improve triage, it still often produces probability, not policy. At machine speed, “probably suspicious” is not good enough.

Machines Change The Attack Model

Human attackers are not disappearing. But more of the attack chain is becoming machine-executed.

AI can automate reconnaissance, accelerate vulnerability discovery, generate exploit code, rewrite payloads and adapt command sequences to the target environment. But most defensive measures are designed around human constraints: reused infrastructure, shortcuts and trackable patterns. These don’t apply to machine attacks.

A machine-generated payload may not match a known signature or have an established reputation. It may be created, used briefly and discarded. But AI malware must still interact with the target environment to achieve its objective. Its behavior cannot conceal its intent, since it must access resources and change the environment in ways that advance the attack.

What malicious code is capable of doing is the more durable security signal.

Security Needs to Ask A Different Question

Software supply chain security has improved, but much of it still validates the artifact’s properties before execution rather than governing execution itself.

SBOMs, signing and provenance give security teams greater confidence in a code's composition, origin and build history. But knowing where software came from does not reveal what it will do when it runs.

Software can pass each of those checks and still create risk. Even an artifact produced through a legitimate build process may violate policy at runtime, while an AI-generated script may complete its intended task in a way that exposes data or systems. As a result, a clean dependency list is not proof of safe behavior.

Post-Execution Detection Is Too Late

Detection and response remain essential, but they intervene after risk has entered the environment. By the time suspicious behavior is visible, software may have accessed secrets, changed system state, opened network connections or created persistence.

AI compresses that window. Code can be generated, modified and deployed faster than humans can review it. Waiting for post-execution evidence gives attackers too much room to operate.

We need to shift the decision point left. Instead of asking, “Can we contain this software if it behaves badly?” the question should be, “Should this behavior be permitted to execute in the first place?”

That does not mean replacing existing controls, but rather changing where the decisive security gate sits.

Zero Trust for Code

Zero Trust changed enterprise security by rejecting implicit trust. Users, devices, sessions and access requests are not trusted simply because they appear familiar. They must be verified against policy.

Software execution needs the same level of verification.

Code should not be trusted solely because it came from a known repository, was signed by a recognized publisher, passed through a build pipeline or has not been seen exhibiting malicious behavior before. Those are useful indicators, but they are not conclusive.

Zero Trust for Code addresses this problem. Before software runs, its expected behavior should be evaluated against policy. If the behavior is acceptable, execution can proceed. If not, the artifact should be blocked, restricted, isolated or escalated for review.

Organizations can start by mapping every path through which code enters the environment or executes with meaningful privilege. This includes formal development channels such as repositories, open-source packages, containers and CI/CD pipelines, as well as email attachments, downloaded files, macros, browser extensions, endpoint installers, third-party integrations and scripts introduced through AI or automation tools.

Then identify where those paths rely on inherited trust. If execution is allowed because software came from an approved source, was signed, passed through a build process or has no malicious history, the control is incomplete. Behavior still has to be evaluated before the artifact is allowed to run.

As AI takes on more of the work of creating legitimate and malicious code, enterprises can no longer assume that code which clears existing checks should be allowed to run. Execution must become a deliberate security decision.

We've listed the best internet security suites for PCs, Macs and mobile devices.

This article was produced as part of TechRadar Pro Perspectives, our channel to feature the best and brightest minds in the technology industry today.

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AI can generate songs in seconds. But behind every AI track is a complicated question: Who should get paid? And, how? The fights have started.

A friend who travels for work recommended FlexiRoam after a three-week trip through Southeast Asia. He's the kind of person who researches everything before he books, so when he said it was the one eSIM he'd actually use again, I paid attention.

It's not the cheapest option, and there's a transparency issue worth knowing about before you buy. But it does a few things that most eSIM providers haven't bothered with, and once you see them, the usual set-and-forget approach starts to feel a little basic.

• Take a look at more of the best eSIMs for international travel

FlexiRoam: Plans and pricing

FlexiRoam organizes its plans around four travel scenarios. Local plans cover a single country, regional plans span zones like Asia or Europe, global plans work across 200+ countries and 20 airlines, and in-flight plans handle in-air connectivity on select carriers. For most international travelers, the global plan is where the comparison starts.

Data

Validity

Price (USD)

Per day

8 GB

90 days

$58

$0.64

20 GB

180 days

$129

$0.72

40 GB

270 days

$149

$0.55

70 GB

360 days

$172

$0.48

100 GB

360 days

$206

$0.57

300 GB

360 days

$438

$1.22

Prices reflect current discounted rates. Always verify the latest pricing on FlexiRoam's website before purchasing.

For in-flight connectivity, FlexiRoam sells separate 24-hour plans: 1GB for $7 and 2GB for $12.60, compatible with 20 airlines. Coverage varies by aircraft model and route, so check airline compatibility on Flexiroam's website before committing. Unlimited inflight plans are also available at separate pricing.

Across the board, FlexiRoam sits at the expensive end of the eSIM market. The long validity windows and per-country multi-network access go some way toward justifying that cost for frequent or multi-destination travelers, but shorter trips have cheaper options elsewhere.

Flexiroam: Features

FlexiRoam lets you switch automatically across multiple local carriers. It shares data with other users via FlexiShare without the battery drain of conventional hotspotting. And it's one of the few providers with dedicated in-flight data plans.

• Network Switching: FlexiRoam's modern eSIM technology enables users to switch between mobile operators smoothly via remote service provisioning. You always have uninterrupted internet access, even when visiting regions too remote for your primary carrier.
• FlexiShare Functionality: FlexiShare is a unique feature offered by FlexiRoam that allows users to share their data plans with others through the FlexiRoam App. FlexiRoam says this approach drains your battery less than traditional WiFi tethering.
• In-flight Data Plans: FlexiRoam is one of the few eSIM providers to offer dedicated in-flight data plans, allowing you to stay connected during flights on select airlines and aircraft. Unlimited inflight plans are also available; check FlexiRoam's website for current pricing. Travelers should verify airline compatibility on FlexiRoam's website before purchasing.

Flexiroam: Installation

Once the eSIM plan is purchased, users receive a QR code or eSIM profile via email. They can then install the FlexiRoam eSIM by scanning the QR code with their device's camera or by following the provided instructions to download the eSIM profile.

The first-time setup process is entirely digital, performed through your phone's settings. There is also an in-app guide to help you along if you feel confused. FlexiRoam eSIMs activate automatically upon reaching your travel destination, so there is no unintended data loss.

For device-specific guidance, FlexiRoam provides step-by-step setup guides for iOS, Samsung, and Google Pixel devices, available directly on their website.

(Image credit: Flexiroam)FlexiRoam: Coverage and speed

FlexiRoam offers coverage in over 200 countries and regions, partnering with multiple local service providers in each country for the best possible performance.

Regarding data speeds, some users have reported slow connections or throttling in certain destinations. Compared to other eSIM providers, FlexiRoam's destination count exceeds even Airalo. However, Airalo partners directly with local telecom providers, which can lead to better speeds in many regions.

While FlexiRoam offers a wide variety of plans with different validity periods, plans can be priced highly in certain countries. Since you can't see carrier information before purchasing a plan, experience in remote locations can be a hit or a miss.

FlexiRoam: Support

(Image credit: Flexiroam)

FlexiRoam offers several customer support channels, including email (support@flexiroam.com), social media (Facebook, Instagram), messaging apps (Line, WhatsApp), and in-app support through the FlexiRoam App.

There's no phone support, which stings if you're mid-trip and something stops working. That said, FlexiRoam's support team does show up in the comments on negative reviews, reaching out directly rather than letting complaints sit. It's not a fix, but it suggests the company is at least paying attention.

FlexiRoam: Final verdict

FlexiRoam is not the eSIM I'd hand to someone who just needs the cheapest option and doesn't want to think twice about it. But for frequent travelers who've hit the ceiling of what a basic eSIM can do, it's worth a serious look.

The multi-carrier switching and FlexiShare are genuinely useful, not just checkbox features. The in-flight plans put it in a category of its own. And the global coverage is as wide as it gets.

The cost is real, and the lack of carrier transparency before purchase is frustrating in a way that feels avoidable. Customer support is a work in progress. If those are dealbreakers, cheaper and more straightforward options exist. But if you travel often enough that connectivity actually affects how your trip goes, FlexiRoam earns its price more often than not.

FlexiRoam: FAQsWhat does FlexiRoam do?

FlexiRoam provides eSIM (embedded SIM) solutions that allow users to access mobile data services in over 200 countries without physical SIM cards. It also provides global deployment and connectivity solutions for IoT devices.

Where is FlexiRoam based?

FlexiRoam is headquartered in Petaling Jaya, near Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Its parent company, FlexiRoam Limited, is publicly listed on the Australian Securities Exchange. Its plans are accessible worldwide, with support for multiple global payment methods.

How do I check if my device is eSIM compatible?

You can check eSIM compatibility directly in the FlexiRoam app or on the website before purchasing a plan. Most modern smartphones launched from 2020 onwards support eSIM technology, though support varies by model and region. It is always recommended to verify your specific device model on FlexiRoam's compatibility page to avoid any issues at checkout.

Can I use FlexiRoam on a dual SIM phone?

Yes. FlexiRoam works with dual-SIM phones, allowing you to keep your physical SIM active for calls and OTPs while using the FlexiRoam eSIM for mobile data. This is a convenient setup for travelers who do not want to lose access to their home number while abroad.

Which data plans can be shared via FlexiShare?

FlexiShare is available on Global and most Regional Data Plans. You can share your data allowance with other FlexiRoam users directly through the app, without the need for traditional WiFi tethering.

What payment methods are available?

FlexiRoam supports a range of payment methods, including credit and debit cards, Apple Pay, Google Pay, Alipay, and FlexiRoam Wallet Credits when purchasing through the app. This makes it accessible for travelers across different regions and preferences.

What should I do if I experience data connection issues?

If you experience connectivity issues, start by ensuring the FlexiRoam eSIM is set as your active data line in your phone settings and that data roaming is enabled. Restarting your device can also resolve most common connection problems. If the issue persists, reach out to the support team via email at support@flexiroam.com for further assistance.

• Pokémon Center UK orders disrupted after CEVA Logistics cyberattack on July 30 2026
• Customer names, addresses, emails, and order details likely exposed, but accounts and payments safe
• Around a dozen organizations confirmed affected; no group has claimed responsibility yet

Customers who recently ordered their favorite Pikachu toy from Pokémon Center might have to do it all over again, since the company suffered a third-party cyberattack which disrupted its operations.

The official store for Pokémon merchandise in the UK has reached out to its customers via email to warn them about a recent cyberattack and its consequences.

According to BleepingComputer, which has seen a copy of the email, the company told its customers they had to “cancel your recent order due to an unforeseen fulfilment issue”.

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CEVA Logistics

The company’s website is also showing a notification saying the company is “currently experiencing delays affecting some orders for our UK customers.”

“These orders may take longer than usual to process, dispatch, and deliver. We apologize for the inconvenience and appreciate your patience.”

The company said the attack struck its logistics provider, CEVA Logistics.

"CEVA Logistics, the vendor Pokémon Center utilizes to ship products from PokemonCenter.com for customers in the United Kingdom and Germany, has informed us that unfortunately they were a victim of a cyber attack commencing on 30 July, 2026."

Last week, one of the biggest shipping and logistics companies in the world disclosed an incident that forced it to shut down parts of its IT infrastructure and affected eight warehouses. At the time, a handful of its customers reported being affected by the breach, including Dutch retailers Bol and De Bijenkorf, and PC gaming powerhouse Valve.

Pokémon Center said the data most likely exposed in this incident includes people’s full names, mailing addresses, phone numbers, email addresses, and details about what they previously ordered on the site. User accounts are apparently safe, and so are payment details.

So far, around a dozen organizations are confirmed as having been affected. No threat actors have claimed responsibility yet.

I tested top payroll providers and found that Gusto is the best overall. See how the others stack up.

The post 9 Best Payroll Software and Services for 2026 appeared first on TechRepublic.

For years, cybersecurity has become increasingly measurable. Security leaders can often tell you how long it takes to detect an intrusion, contain an attack and restore normal operation. Those figures have given boards a straightforward way to judge progress, offering reassurance that investment in security is delivering real improvements.

Metrics such as Mean Time to Detect (MTTD) and Mean Time to Respond (MTTR) have earned their place at the table. They both provide a clear picture of how effectively security teams perform when something goes wrong and have helped drive better incident response across the industry.

The problem is not that these metrics are wrong. They were designed for a different era, when technology changed more slowly, attack methods evolved over longer timescales and AI wasn't yet part of the equation.

Today's businesses are introducing new technologies at an extraordinary pace. AI is becoming embedded across organizations, cloud environments continue to expand and businesses are more interconnected than ever before. At the same time, attackers are constantly adapting their own techniques, taking advantage of new tactics and tools almost as quickly as they emerge.

CISO’s and boards need to dynamically review the changing threat landscape and risk posture and ask themselves whether the metrics relied on for years still tell us everything we need to know.

Mind the gap

Every business wants to detect attacks sooner, contain them faster and recover with minimal disruption. That’s why MTTD and MTTR remain valuable operational measures. They tell us how effectively a security team performed once an incident was underway.

What they don't tell us is whether the business is becoming better prepared for what comes next, more resilient, more agile in recovery. That matters because cyber risk continues to evolve long after an incident has been contained.

The UK Government's Cyber Security Breaches Survey 2025/2026 found that 43% of UK businesses experienced a cyber breach or attack during the previous year.

This reinforces how security teams are operating in an environment where incidents are a regular reality, whether it's in their own environment, or that of one of their supply chain. Responding well is important, but resilience is shaped by everything that happens before incidents.

A business may recover quickly from an attack but still take months to review its security policies, reassess supplier risk or strengthen controls in response to what it has learned. By the time those changes are made, the threat landscape will have moved on.

Traditional metrics tell us how quickly a business responds to an incident. They don't tell us how quickly it learns from one, or how quickly it adapts.

Closing the gap

If we're going to close that gap of preparedness, our metrics need to evolve as well. Resilience is no longer defined solely by how well a business responds to isolated incidents, but by how quickly it keeps pace with continuous change.

I believe organizations should start thinking about another benchmark alongside the ones we already know: Mean Time to Adapt (MTTA).

MTTA considers how long it takes to recognize a meaningful change in the threat landscape and turn that knowledge into action.

Sometimes that action will be technical. It could mean updating the rules security tools used to detect emerging attack techniques. Or it might involve tightening access to critical systems after a serious vulnerability is discovered. It may also be a proactive lessons learned view of an attack on another organization or sector to understand how vulnerable the organization would be.

In other cases, the response will be organizational rather than technical. It may involve reviewing governance, changing how cyber risk is reported to the board or refreshing employee awareness programs to reflect the latest tactics being used by attackers.

Either way, resilience depends on both. The strongest security programs combine technical improvements with organizational change, ensuring businesses can recognize change and act on it quickly.

That’s why closing this gap is not only a technology challenge. It relies on decision-making, leadership and a willingness to keep questioning whether existing assumptions still hold true. Businesses that adapt well rarely assume their current security program is finished. They expect it to evolve because the environment around them is evolving too.

That thinking is increasingly reflected across the wider industry. For example, the National Cyber Security Centre's Cyber Assessment Framework places governance, risk management and continual improvement at the heart of cyber resilience. It recognizes that security is an ongoing organizational capability, not a one-time achievement.

A different conversation in the boardroom

If preparedness and adaptation becomes a more meaningful measure of resilience, it will change the conversations taking place in the boardroom.

Most directors already receive regular updates covering incidents, phishing activity and response times. Those reports remain important, but they won’t always show how well the business is responding to change itself.

The discussion must now move beyond operational reporting and give greater prominence to MTTA. This would give boards a way to measure how quickly an organization responds to change, rather than simply how efficiently it handles incidents.

In practice, that means asking a different set of questions. How quickly does the business reassess risk when a significant new threat emerges? How long does it take for new intelligence to shape security policies? Have lessons from recent attacks fundamentally changed the way the organization operates, or have they simply been recorded and filed away?

By measuring adaptation, rather than response alone, organizations can answer these questions with greater confidence and build a broader picture of resilience.

And this isn't solely a question for security teams. It depends on leadership, governance and how prepared the wider business is to make decisions as risks continue to evolve.

Measuring what matters

MTTD and MTTR will remain valuable measures of operational performance. But if organizations want to understand how resilient they really are, they also need to know how quickly they adapt.

MTTA fills that gap. It won't replace today's cyber metrics, but it will enhance them by measuring a capability that is becoming increasingly important as technology, AI and cyber threats continue to evolve.

It’s now MTTA time to shine.

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This article was produced as part of TechRadar Pro Perspectives, our channel to feature the best and brightest minds in the technology industry today.

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• Sony CEO Hiroko Totoki says a release date for the PS6 has yet to be decided
• The global component shortage and trade wars have impacted Sony's decision-making
• Totoki says, "We need to take some action. Otherwise, we cannot survive in this landscape"

Sony CEO Hiroko Totoki has confirmed that the PlayStation 6 release date remains undecided due to the ongoing manufacturing component crisis and trade wars.

During an interview with The Wall Street Journal (via VGC), in which Totoki primarily discussed the company's television and movie business, the CEO briefly touched on the PS6 and the challenges of developing the next-generation PlayStation console.

Namely, the global RAM crisis, driven primarily by the rapid demand for AI data centers and seeing prices skyrocket, and the ongoing trade wars.

"Considering that importance, we need to take some action. Otherwise, we cannot survive in this landscape," Totoki said.

Analysts have previously predicted that the PS6 could launch in 2027, which The Wall Street Journal also mentioned in its interview; however, due to the component shortage, Sony hasn't decided the launch date internally.

"Totoki said the company still hasn’t fixed a date for PS6’s launch," The Wall Street Journal states.

Totoki last spoke about the PS6 in May but was hesitant to share anything about the console, saying that the current circumstances regarding the RAM crisis, "memory price is also expected to be very high [in] FY 2027."

"We have not yet decided on at what timing we will launch the new console, or at what prices," Totoki said at the time. "So we would like to really observe and follow the situation.

"Looking at the current circumstances, the memory price is also expected to be very high [in] FY 2027, because there will still be a shortage of supply. So under that assumption, we must think carefully what we will do."

There have also been numerous claims from industry insiders, such as Moore's Law is Dead, who have suggested a 2027 launch date as well, and even claimed that Sony will launch its next-generation PlayStation with three devices in 2027, including two consoles and a companion handheld.

Recent comments from Sony Interactive Entertainment CEO Hideaki Nishino also seem to suggest that the next-generation PlayStation console could be a handheld.

However, Following Sony's announcement that it will end the production of physical game discs in January 2028, analysts have determined that the next-gen PS6 console will launch in 2028.

According to Ampere analyst Piers Harding-Rolls, the all-digital plan telegraphs Sony's upcoming plans, and the "current expectation is that the console will launch at the end of 2028."

The analyst also suggested that "at a minimum," the standard version of the PS6 won't have a physical media disc drive since Sony will be looking for ways to reduce the cost of its next-gen hardware, and "this is an easy win."

• We've heard countless rumors about camera-toting AirPods
• Now, a leaked video reportedly from MacOS build shows how they'd work
• Public opinion on this kind of tech is poor, and getting worse

We've been hearing countless rumors that Apple is working on AirPods with cameras — last news was that they could come in 2027 — and now we have an idea as to how they could work.

Website MacRumors has uncovered a video found in pre-release code for MacOS Tahoe 26.7, an upcoming update to Macs' operating system.

The video shows an AirPods-wearing man pick up a book and look at it, while a female voice says: "With visual intelligence, your world becomes saveable. See something you like? Just ask me to save it for later."

Here is your first look at AirPods with Cameras in action using Visual Intelligence.This video file came from macOS 26.7 RC pic.twitter.com/yo7RI4MCeuAugust 18, 2026

Finally, we have a way to remember things! How has humanity got to this point without that...

Visual Intelligence is an Apple feature, which uses an iPhone camera to see what's going on around you. And apparently, it's coming to AirPods, when they get cameras.

This video doesn't look like leaked marketing material for the new AirPods; the production value doesn't match other Apple material. It looks like it was shot on an iPhone, with exposure that's all over the place. But it could be a placeholder, or perhaps an internal video.

It's also unlikely that the AirPods used in the video are the new camera-toting ones; again, these are probably just placeholder buds. Instead, this news shows us what Apple thinks these new buds will do: act as extensions of AI tools like Visual Intelligence. And that might be their downfall.

A bad time for all-seeing tech

(Image credit: Future)

Some journalists have written that always-watching smart tech, especially smart glasses, are facing a reckoning. That's no longer quite true: they've faced said reckoning, the great privacy revolt has reached its conclusion, and opinion now couldn't be sourer on this kind of surveillance gadget.

In the UK, smart glasses have been banned from courts, restaurants, theaters, and even the pub chain Wetherspoons (there's nowhere lower to go than being kicked out of a 'Spoons'). Their disparaging moniker, "pervert glasses", is now used more commonly than their actual name, and they're frowned upon even more in the court of social opinion than in actual courts.

Okay I hate to be that guy but… who’s asking for thisAugust 18, 2026

The reason for this low public opinion — well, one of many — is smart glasses' use of cameras. Since the user could be recording video or taking pictures, without anyone else knowing, they're a privacy nightmare. And since legislation can take an age to come into effect, it's easier just to socially ostracise people who might be recording you without your knowledge.

And so, AirPods coming with cameras would be a truly awful look, as it'd get them lumped in with smart glasses. Even if the buds don't actually let you capture footage, and only use their cameras for object recognition, the very presence of visible cameras will get them lumped in with smart glasses: "pervert earbuds".

And that's notwithstanding the real chance — as has been demonstrated with those glasses — of Apple's earbuds being appropriated by tech-savvy individuals, to somehow get the cameras working (despite the buds' presumed low-res quality that Apple doesn't mean for video capture).

As I've written in the past, these things aren't designed to take pictures. They are for analyzing your surroundings. https://t.co/r7IFNmsoE4 https://t.co/tjmS7w8tlJAugust 18, 2026

Disregarding the scant use cases of camera-toting smart glasses, camera-toting AirPods would launch amid a storm of negative attitudes to this kind of tech. It's a risk and could even be seen as a potential lose-lose situation for Apple: either release a product that's dead on arrival, or one that is popular but helps to distribute and normalize "pervert" tech.

Maybe the sentiment one X user posted, "I hate to be that guy but… who's asking for this?" sums it up nicely. It could be that at this point, we don't need these AirPods, guys. And perhaps Apple could instead put its R&D efforts towards earbuds with a competitive battery life…

Soap box derbies send motorless cars down a steep incline. At one event, contestants make their cars look like cartoon characters, subway cars, food, and giant animals (among other outlandish shapes).

(Image credit: Celeste Noche for NPR)

As global supply chains remain exposed to geopolitical and climate uncertainty, retail and consumer packaged goods (CPG) businesses face challenges of fluctuating prices and demand. In the United Kingdom, supply chain volatility is adding to uncertainty in raw material and packaging costs to impact CPG companies’ production economics.

Research has found that a huge majority of British retailers were not confident of scaling up their supply chain operations to meet the expected increase in consumer demand. In fact, 43% of retail leaders ranked supply chain issues among their top three business challenges in 2025, highlighting widespread concern over operational capacity in the face of rising demand and cost uncertainty.

Retail and CPG businesses can address these problems by modernizing fragmented and often inflexible systems to improve data visibility, analysis and automation across their supply chains.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) technologies are imperative to this agenda: packing powerful capabilities - including data integration, automation, demand sensing and intelligence - AI and ML are redefining retail and CPG operations by enabling seamless, autonomous ecosystems.

Connected platform to satisfied customer

Connected supply chains provide transparency to allow organizations to manage operations and inventories in real-time to improve stock allocation and ordering efficiency.

Intelligent algorithms also analyze vast and varied data – from historical sales and seasonality to weather, social media trends and local events – to accurately forecast demand, preparing supply chains for changing ordering patterns.

Forewarned, businesses can rapidly adapt production and distribution strategies in case of a surge in demand or supply disruption. AI and ML automate a variety of supply chain tasks to speed up processes, reduce errors and save costs. Ensuring product availability at all times, retailers and CPG companies in the U.K. can look forward to greater customer satisfaction and loyalty.

Real-time, for responsiveness and resilience

Real-time insights are critical to supply chain operations. Live data from Point of Sale systems, ecommerce platforms, etc. provide up-to-date insights into customer preferences and behaviors to improve demand forecasting and also allow companies to dynamically adjust stock levels across warehouses and stores to meet sudden demand.

Real-time analytics solutions highlight product performance by region, channel and even outlet, enabling retailers to optimize assortments and launch targeted promotions. By providing continuous visibility into the supply chain, AI allows CPG companies to anticipate demand shifts and disruptions to curtail risk and maintain supply chain resilience.

Precise prediction drives product fulfilment

AI and ML platforms have superior predictive capabilities: they go beyond general demand forecasting to predict exactly what customers want, and when, and can even proactively trigger replenishment orders before stocks run out. Algorithms are not only more efficient at spotting patterns and making projections than traditional analysis, but are even capable of adjusting forecasts based on micro-trends.

By enabling CPG and retail companies to ensure that the right product is at the right place at the right time, AI and ML mitigate loss of sales due to stockout; save labor, warehousing and other costs; and improve product availability across physical and digital channels, leading to superior customer experience.

The future is autonomous

Agentic AI-powered autonomous supply chains are taking operational efficiency and customer engagement to new heights by anticipating demand, optimizing inventory, and orchestrating various tasks with little or no human intervention.

Autonomous systems meet the digital consumer’s expectation of frictionless, enjoyable experiences by personalizing product and delivery options and continuously optimizing logistics and transportation routes to allow faster/ on-time delivery.

Upon anticipating a delay, AI agents can take proactive measures – rerouting a shipment or suggesting an alternative supplier, and updating customers about the status of their orders to avoid frustration. By enabling full traceability to allow customers to track their orders any time, autonomous supply chains build trust and engagement.

Last but not least, by optimizing inventory and logistics operations, autonomous supply chains reduce waste and energy consumption, and support ethical sourcing through clear visibility. Agile, proactive, and sustainable – that is what the future of retail and CPG supply chains looks like.

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This article was produced as part of TechRadar Pro Perspectives, our channel to feature the best and brightest minds in the technology industry today.

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