Technology

You don't need to use Dall-E 3 to generate AI images in ChatGPT anymore.

While it’s not another 12 days of news from OpenAI – or at least, we hope not – the company behind ChatGPT did have a quick live stream on March 25, 2025.

The news? Well, while the AI behemoth was tight-lipped in the lead-up, OpenAI did debut native image generation for the 4o model.

It makes the teaser image of someone writing “Livestream at 11AM PT” on a classic, dark green chalkboard make a lot more sense.

OpenAI's much-improved image generation skills are debuting shortly after Google added native image generation to Gemini inside its AI Studio.

Ahead, you can see TechRadar's live blog during the event as OpenAI CEO Sam Altman walked us through the news and updates since the stream wrapped of us putting the new feature to the test.

(Image credit: Future)

Well, the livestream title is shedding a lot more light as to watch we can expect ... way more than the intitally teased image. It's titled "4o Image Generation in ChatGPT and Sora" so that means we're likely getting improvements to creating images within ChatGPT and Sora.

The mention of the latter might mean more general improvements for text-to-video generation as well.

Under 15 minutes to go now!

OpenAI's live stream has begun, and in the lead-up to the 2PM ET / 11AM PT / 6PM GMT start time, we're being treated to various images. Some of these overlap, but it refreshes every few seconds and shows off all the different styles.

The live stream description notes we'll be hearing from Sam Altman, Gabriel Goh, Prafulla Dhariwal, Lu Liu, Allan Jabri, and Mengchao Zhong discussing 4o image generation.

(Image credit: Future) OpenAI debuts native image generation in the 4o model

(Image credit: Future)

And we're off to the races – Sam Altman is calling this one of the most fun advancments, and it's native image generation in the 4o model. He quickly noted 'it's a huge step forward' and something that OpenAI has been excited to rollout for quite some time, for a whole host of folks.

Altman notes the best way to explain it is to show it off, so we're already in a demo. In just a few seconds after the prompt, OpenAI showed off an image with what the team said has 'perfect text.' Seemingly showing a leap in terms of understanding the prompt and creating the image with clear text, and a unique point of view effect.

(Image credit: Future)

(Image credit: Future)

In the second demo, the OpenAI team took a selfie and then asked ChatGPT to make it into an 'anime style.' It took several seconds, but it did indeed generate what was requested. You can see it above.

Sam Altman was then quick to note that the improved image generation is starting to roll out now in ChatGPT and Sora for Pro users, and it will be available for free users as well.

We also are seeing the process of the native image generation model within the 4o model, turning that generated selfie into an "AGI meme."

(Image credit: Future)

Sam Altman also teased that the native image generation model within 4o is designed to be a little offensive within reason if that's what you direct it to. The key phrase there is "within reason," and no doubt many users will put that to the test.

Now, the second demo asks for a colorful image describing the theory of relativity, with some added humor. Altman also noted that the image generation model is a bit slower but that the result is much higher in quality.

(Image credit: Future)

Considering the improved image generation is already available – or at least rolling out – TechRadar's editor-at-large, Lance Ulanoff, already tested the feature.

Lance took a selfie and uploaded it to ChatGPT via the iPhone app. He then asked for it to be turned into anime style. The first time, it gave him a full head of hair, but then corrected when he asked for it to be bald.

(Image credit: Future/Lance Ulanoff)

(Image credit: Future)

Back to the live demos, OpenAI is showing that we can now chat with ChatGPT more visually. This means that you can ask for requests to images in a row, and it will remember the context.

In this example, a photo of a coin was sent, and then the team asked ChatGPT to make it transparent, among other requests.

(Image credit: Future) That was fast!

OpenAI certainly covered quite a bit of ground in just about 15~ minutes. Sam Altman and the team debuted native image generation in the 4o model. Then, presented some demos, and before it was wrapped, we already tested the feature in the ChatGPT app for the iPhone.

Now, as OpenAI announced, the improved model is rolling out now to Pro users, but is also coming to free users. Altman also confirmed it will eventually arrive in the API as well.

We just put image generation in the 4o model through another test, this time asking for a cartoon strip in the style of Charles Schulz's "Peanuts." While ChatGPT acknowledged the request, it turned it down due to copyright.

Instead, the resulting funny comic strip is in a similar style, with two familiar characters who have new names and other qualities to distinguish them from the original.

(Image credit: Future)

The head of OracleNetSuite has laid out his vision of getting business technology to work by ensuring your organization is connected as much as possible.

Speaking at the company's SuiteConnect London 2025 event, Evan Goldberg highlighted the importance of ensuring all your data is connected, noting how successful businesses don't work in silos.

"If you're a business leader in 2025, you probably feel pressure to get the most out of your technology - and you're not alone," he declared. "The best-run businesses operate in a unified way, with every function connected to every other."

Time for Suiteness

With NetSuite's platform offering such a wide array of accountancy and finance tools for businesses, Goldberg introduced the idea of "Suiteness" - by which all the elements of your suite work together, meaning all your data, your processes and teams are unified in one system.

This approach means users can get more insight by analyzing data together, but also see greater productivity benefits, as workflows are united from end to end and across departments, meaning your teams can truly collaborate because they're all working in the same system.

"(Suiteness) means you can achieve more in every department across your business," Goldberg concluded.

(Image credit: Oracle NetSuite)

Goldberg also noted how finance is critical for every area of a business, and this is why NetSuite was built to be, "an operating system for your entire business, not just a system for accounting or operations or HR or any single functional area."

"It's our job to deliver constant innovation, to let you get more out of the suite in every area of your organization,” Goldberg added.

“Our partnership with Oracle (means) we're able to deliver powerful enterprise-grade solutions, once available only to the largest organizations, at a scale and price that's appropriate for your organization."

AI was unsurprisingly at the heart of the company's latest innovation, with Nicky Tozer, Senior Vice President, EMEA, Oracle NetSuite, noting how AI "is no longer the tech of the future, it's here today."

The company also unveiled a host of AI tools and services centered around AI agents, including Text Enhance for custom fields, allowing for faster and more customized data entry, and a Financial Exception Management agent which can automatically detect any potential issues with suspicious transactions.

“Organizations in the UK are looking to AI to help them be more productive and do more with less, but knowing where to start can be overwhelming,” said Goldberg.

“With our AI built in, not bolted on and by offering it at no additional cost, NetSuite is helping customers reduce the barrier to entry and quickly and easily benefit from the latest advancements to gain deeper insights and boost efficiency.”

• We've also rounded up the best tax software around

• Apple's announced that WWDC 2025 will run from June 9 to June 13
• The week-long developer conference will start with a special event on June 9
• It should be the next big chance for Apple to provide an update on Apple Intelligence and for new software to be unveiled

We’ve all been expecting Apple’s next event to be in June, and the Cupertino-based tech behemoth just made it official. WWDC – aka World Wide Developers Conference – is returning, and the week-long affair will kick off with a special event on June 9, 2025.

It’s safe to say that Apple has a lot riding on the special event, as it will be almost a year to the day that Apple Intelligence was unveiled, and in the 365 days since then, there’s been a lot of news.

Most recently, Apple officially confirmed a delay with the AI-infused Siri and said it’ll arrive ‘in the coming year.’ We’re all expecting Apple – likely in the form of CEO Tim Cook or SVP of Software Craig Federghi – to give a state of the state of sorts on the feature set.

In typical Apple fashion, the company is tight-lipped about what to expect from WWDC 2025. We have a new graphic with “WWDC” in the iconic rainbow Apple colors, and the “25” at the end of the event logo has some dimension to it, potentially hinting that the rumored redesign of iOS, iPadOS, and macOS will take a page from VisionOS.

Apple's state of the state, and hopefully an update on Apple Intelligence

(Image credit: Future)

In the shared release, Apple teases that the week will “spotlight the latest advancements in Apple software,” likely hinting at the release of iOS 19, iPadOS 19, macOS – insert fun California-themed name – 16, watchOS 12, VisionOS 3, as well as new versions of tvOS and the OS’ for HomePod and HomePod mini.

Susan Prescott, Apple’s vice president of Worldwide Developer Relations, writes, “We’re excited to mark another incredible year of WWDC with our global developer community. We can’t wait to share the latest tools and technologies that will empower developers and help them continue to innovate” – certainly powering the hype train out of the station.

Greg Joswiak, Apple’s SVP of Marketing, took to X (formerly Twitter) to suggest we all save the week, hinting at a lot of news and sharing an animated version of the WWDC 25 logo that certainly has some bounce.

You’re gonna want to save the date for the week of June 9! #WWDC25 pic.twitter.com/gjzYZCkPbAMarch 25, 2025

As with previous years, WWDC 2025 will be available online and free for all registered developers, but there will be an in-person component happening at Apple Park in Cupertino, CA. This will be a chance for folks to watch the keynote and platforms' state of the union as well as take part in workshops. Space is limited, though, and registration is required. Regardless, TechRadar will have boots on the ground and be the place to be for the news as it breaks.

(Image credit: Future / Lance Ulanoff)

The real question, though, on our mind is how Apple Intelligence is positioned going forward, and what non-AI developments Apple has in store for the software that powers the iPhone, iPad, Mac, Apple Watch, Apple TV, Apple Vision Pro, and even AirPods.

Apple’s top team will need to explain where the AI-infused Siri is, how the timeline has shifted, and most importantly, how they will stick to it. The most recent report is that Mike Rockwell – the VP behind the Vision Pro and getting it to market – is now in charge of Siri, reporting directly to Craig Federghi.

Could we finally get a true redesign of iPadOS, making it more Mac-like and letting folks with an iPad Pro take advantage of the M4 chip? Will there be some impressive new Continuity features in the same vein as iPhone Mirroring? Might the redesign be as impressive and a garaguntan leap that pushes the appeal of Apple hardware?

The stakes are high, and I hope we’ll get some major news. But now we just have to wait 76 days – and counting – until Tim Cook takes the stage, says Good Morning, and hopefully provides more context around Apple Intelligence and the strange, strange rollout it’s taken.

You might also like

• Apple officially delays the AI-infused Siri and admits, ‘It’s going to take us longer than we thought’
• Apple's AirPods Max with USB-C will get lossless audio in April, but you'll need to go wired

• New changes to Hollow Knight: Silksong's Steam metadata have been discovered
• The game's copyright has been updated to 2025 from 2019, and eligibility for Nvidia GeForce Now has been added
• Fans are convinced the new copyright could mean a 2025 release date will be announced soon

Updates on Hollow Knight: Silksong have been few and far between for quite some time, but new changes to the game's Steam data have convinced fans that we'll finally hear more about it this year.

The discovery comes from SteamDB (via IGN), where several updates to the game's Steam listing were recorded. Among them is an update to change Silksong's copyright year from 2019 to 2025, eligibility for Nvidia's streaming platform, GeForce Now, and add new assets.

It's the changed copyright info that has fans excited and has sparked new speculation that the game could potentially launch sometime this year.

"This is the first copyright update in 6 years and also they added cloud gaming. This has to mean they’re getting close to launching the game right??" one user posted over on the game's subbreddit.

"This is it boys, it's been nice living in the silksanity for so long," said one user in response to a YouTube video detailing the news.

"Okay, all jokes aside, I genuinely believe that this might be the year..." another wrote.

Hollow Knight: Silksong was announced five years ago and is a sequel to the popular metroidvania Hollow Knight. The most recent trailer was released during the Xbox and Bethesda Games Showcase event in 2022.

Recent rumors suggest that a Nintendo Direct Showcase will air sometime this week, and if Hollow Knight: Silksong is launching this year, the broadcast could be the perfect place to announce a launch date and perhaps even a Switch 2 release.

You might also like...

• The best Nintendo Switch games to play in 2025
• Nintendo Switch 2 Direct - five things I want to see
• Monster Hunter Wilds Title Update 1 launches in early April, adding new monsters and some of the best-looking armor sets I need to add to my collection

The tech giant is expected to reveal iOS 19 and other major software updates at its annual developer conference.

• OpenAI launches OpenAI Academy
• The free resource has all the info you need on how to master ChatGPT and Sora
• The AI bible includes live streams, videos, and in-person events

OpenAI just launched an incredible AI resource bible called OpenAI Academy, and it could be the catalyst for you to finally try ChatGPT.

Announced on the company's blog, OpenAI Academy is a publicly available, free online resource hub that will help "support AI literacy and help people from all backgrounds access tools, best practices, and peer insights to use AI more effectively and responsibly".

With in-person events, live streams, and content to explore at your own pace, the Academy could become your go-to resource for all things ChatGPT and Sora.

There are plenty of excellent AI resources on the internet. In fact, you're reading one just now. OpenAI Academy, however, gives users a go-to educational tool created by the makers of ChatGPT to help teach the right practices for using AI.

You can access OpenAI Academy without paying a dime; all you'll need to do is sign up for an account. You can access the resource here.

The perfect companion

AI is rapidly evolving and changing the way we interact with technology. As someone who writes about AI and uses it daily, OpenAI Academy is the kind of resource I've been waiting for.

Initially, OpenAI Academy launched as an in-person event, so it's fantastic to see the resources be made available to anyone with access to the internet.

From tips on how to get started with Sora and how to craft a storyboard, to how to create custom GPTs and use Deep Research in ChatGPT, there's a guide for almost all your needs.

Considering companies charge for educational courses on AI, OpenAI's offering here is a steal for free. So whether or not you use ChatGPT or Sora daily, or if you've been hesitant to try because it can be overwhelming, OpenAI Academy has you covered.

You might also like

• I discovered a surprising difference between DeepSeek and ChatGPT search capabilities
• I pitted ChatGPT Deep Research against Gemini Deep Research – here's how Google's free tool compares to OpenAI's paid offering
• Google previews AI Mode for search, taking on the likes of ChatGPT search and Perplexity

• Capcom has announced that Monster Hunter Wilds Free Title Update 1 will arrive on April 3
• The major content patch will add a new monster called Mizutsune, Arch-tempered Rey Dau, The Grand Hub, new gear sets, and more
• Free Title Update 2 is confirmed for a Summer 2025 release and will see the return of Lagiacrus

Monster Hunter Wilds Free Title Update 1 will be released on April 3 and will introduce a buffet of new content, including the addition of a new monster.

The Monster Hunter Wilds Showcase kicked off today, where Capcom gave fans the first look at the game's first major content patch while also teasing its Summer update and the return of a familiar monster.

Kicking things off with one of the most notable announcements of the broadcast, the upcoming update will introduce a brand new monster called Mizutsune, a water-element beast that can be unlocked at Hunter Rank 21 and can be found in the Scarlet Forest.

We didn't get a ton of information about Mizutsune, but from a short clip, we know that it will use giant bubbles and a spraying attack from its mouth to counter the player at long range.

Players at Hunter Rank 50 and above will also be able to take on Arch-tempered Rey Dau on April 29, and Zoh Sia can be fought once again at Hunter Rank 50 when the patch drops. All three monsters will each drop materials that can be used to craft brand-new armor sets, and every single one of them looks amazing.

Another new feature arriving with Title Update 1 is The Grand Hub, a larger, interactive gathering space for players that can be unlocked at Rank 16, featuring a new Barrel Bowling mini-game with rewards, arm wrestling, and night-time performances from the Diva.

Arena Quests will finally be implemented, too, allowing players to compete with other Hunters online for the fastest completion times.

Challenge Quests and Free Challenge Quests will also be available as limited-time Event Quests, the latter of which requires no equipment limits and allows up to four players.

Capcom has confirmed that every season, celebrations will be held at The Grand Hub, with the first celebration of Spring, the Festival of Accord: Blossomdance, to be released on April 23.

During seasonal events, the appearance of The Grand Hub and available meals will change, and players can obtain limited equipment, gestures, pop-up camp decorations, and more.

In addition to seasonal event quests, "most previous event quests will also make a return", but it's unclear which ones right now.

Alongside the release of free downloadable content (DLC) packs that feature new gestures, players will also be able to change Alma's outfit for free. Accessing the customisation tab in the game's menu will allow players to equip Alma with her new outfit and, after completing a certain side mission, Alma's glasses will also be changeable.

Capcom shared a look at the game's roadmap, which revealed that a new Capcom collaboration and "additional features" will arrive at the end of May.

At the end of the showcase, it was also announced that Title Update 2 is planned to arrive in Summer 2025, with a short sneak peek teasing the return of Lagiacrus, a monster that has been featured in many past Monster Hunter games.

You might also like...

• Best PC games 2025: the must-play titles you don’t want to miss
• The best multiplayer PC games 2025: our picks for the best titles to play with others
• Marvel Rivals will get two new hero skins for Moon Knight and Black Panther this week meaning I'll now need to farm even more Units

• Security researchers Sygnia discover attack after responding to a separate incident
• The attack was attributed to a Chinese state-sponsored threat actor
• Weaver Ant group lurked for years, stealing sensitive data and moving laterally

Chinese state-sponsored threat actors allegedly spent four years lurking in the IT infrastructure of a “major” Asian telecommunications provider, according to cybersecurity researchers Sygnia, which discovered the cyber-espionage campaign after responding to a separate incident.

In a technical writeup, Sygnia said while investigating a separate forensic case, multiple security alerts flagged suspicious activity. Furthermore, a previously disabled account was re-enabled, raising even more suspicion.

Digging deeper, the investigators found China Chopper web shells, as well as multiple other malicious payloads used for lateral movement and data exfiltration.

Monitor your credit score with TransUnion starting at $29.95/month

TransUnion is a credit monitoring service that helps you stay on top of your financial health. With real-time alerts, credit score tracking, and identity theft protection, it ensures you never miss important changes. You'll benefit from a customizable online interface with clear insights into your credit profile. Businesses also benefit from TransUnion’s advanced risk assessment tools.

Preferred partner (What does this mean?)View Deal

"Incredibly dangerous"

They concluded that the threat actors, named Weaver Ant, were Chinese, since their operational tactics, the use of China Chopper, ORB networks, and other tools, their working hours, and the choice of target (critical telecom infrastructure), all pointed to that conclusion.

Sygnia did not want to disclose who that “major” Asian telecommunications company is, but said that the initial access vectors were vulnerable Zyxel routers.

Furthermore, the company added other Southeast Asian telecom providers as victims, as well, since their compromised Zyxel routers were used in the attack.

Weaver Ant managed to successfully maintain long-term access, exfiltrate sensitive data, while moving laterally across the company’s systems, Sygnia concluded. The goal was espionage - to gather as much intelligence as possible, from critical infrastructure.

Despite multiple attempts to remove them, Weaver Ant managed to persist, it was concluded.

“Nation-state threat actors like Weaver Ant are incredibly dangerous and persistent with the primary goal of infiltrating critical infrastructure and collecting as much information as they can before being discovered,” said Oren Biderman, incident response leader at Sygnia.

“Weaver Ant maintained activity within the compromised network for over four years despite repeated attempts to eliminate them from compromised systems. The threat actor adapted their [tactics] to the evolving network environment, enabling continuous access to compromised systems and the collection of sensitive information.”

Via The Record

You might also like

• US government warns Medusa ransomware has hit hundreds of critical infrastructure targets
• We've rounded up the best password managers
• Take a look at our guide to the best authenticator app

• Sony earbuds to replace the budget-belter WF-C700N have launched
• The new WF-C710N buds bring wearer detection and improved battery life
• …Oh, and a stunning 'glass blue' transparent colorway

It's unlikely you'll have missed the excellent Sony WF-C700N earbuds. They sat atop TechRadar's best budget earbuds list for over a year following their release in April 2023, until the Nothing Ear (a) swept in a whole 13 months later and after much deliberation – including a Nothing Ear (a) versus Sony WF-C700N feature – we agreed Nothing's option should take their spot.

But as of today, there's a new Sony kid in town: Sony WF-C710N – so, er, 10 more than the older model (it is difficult to understand Sony's monikers; I find it best to nod slightly, as we did with the cheap and very-good-but-devoid-of-ANC Sony WF-C510, and move on). The point is, they're here to supersede the Sony WF-C700N, and that 'N' definitely means 'noise cancellation'.

Before we get into the specs though, let's talk about that all-new 'Blue Glass' colorway in addition to black, white, and pink finishes. It is transparent like sea glass and for anyone who remembers Nothing laboring the point of its mostly-transparent stems and driver housing, this seems oh-so effortless…

Sony WF-C710N specs and features

(Image credit: Sony)

So what are the upgrades? First off, the stamina: without ANC deployed Sony tells me you can expect a 40-hour total battery life, or 12 hours from the buds and a further 28 from the case. With noise-canceling on, it's 8.5 hours and 21.5 hours in the case, or a 30-hour battery total before you need a USB-C charger. It's a huge step up from the 20 hours without ANC (or 15 with it) total battery life you'd get from the outgoing model.

Next, there's a new Sony companion app called 'Sound Connect' that, in addition to Sony's five-band EQ tab, adds a feature called 'Find My Equaliser'. This plays various tracks to you and asks you to pick a favorite of five EQ presets, to create a custom profile tuned to your ears.

Also on the new-for-WF-C710N list is wearer detection, which is something we really wanted to see in the Sony WF-C710N, because it means they'll pause the audio when you remove one and resume it when you put it back in your ear.

Elsewhere, on-ear touch controls are back including volume tweaks, playback, access to noise-cancelling profiles, hands-free summoning of Gemini or Siri plus Quick Attention, which means that by covering one earbud, playback is cut and your mics are amplified to better hear the person who just disturbed you at your desk. (It's a great feature. I love it, really… )

On those mics, you now get two per bud with a new AI-enhanced 'dual noise sensor technology' to pick out and amplify your voice while nixing extraneous noise in calls. Said mics also now feature a special wind-noise reduction mesh. There's also multi-point to two devices, adaptive sound control for ANC, Sony's 360 Reality Audio solution (but do remember, Tidal sadly no longer supports the format) and Sony's entry-level DSEE upscaler to make even lowly Spotify streams sound closer to the real thing.

The 5mm driver unit appears unchanged, however, and although there's a Bluetooth 5.3 chipset, at launch the WF-C710N will not support Auracast audio broadcasts at airports and dental surgeries – when those arrive. There's also no higher-resolution LDAC support (your codec support here is limited to SBC and AAC) and your ear tip selection is limited to just three sizes (small, medium, and large), however, I found their elder siblings some of the best earbuds for smaller ears, so since the driver-size and earpiece dimensions here seem largely unchanged, I'm not particularly worried about the fit.

Pricing? Certainly. The Sony WF-C710N earbuds are priced at £100 or €120 (so just £1 more than the WF-C700N), which translates to around $129 or AU$205, although these last two prices are unofficial.

How good are they and should you rush out and buy a set? I'm working on a full review, and I'll let you know soon…

(Image credit: Sony) You may also like

• The best earbuds you can buy right now
• Want cans? Check our roundup of the best noise-canceling headphones
• Got buds, need music? See our pick of the best music streaming services

• Nacon has revealed a new gaming microphone
• The RIG M2 Streamstar is geared towards content creators
• It features wireless real-time audio monitoring via Bluetooth

Publisher and gaming accessory manufacturer Nacon has revealed the RIG M2 Streamstar, a new gaming microphone in its RIG line of peripherals.

Billed as the first wired gaming microphone with an in-built Bluetooth audio gateway, it allows you to pair Bluetooth earbuds directly to the mic for real-time audio monitoring.

This could be particularly handy for creators who already own Bluetooth headphones (like many of the best gaming earbuds) and don't want to have to pick up a wired pair. It also boasts compatibility with the aptX HD audio codec for hi-res 24-bit wireless audio.

The other features of the microphone are quite basic. It can capture high-definition 24-bit audio with a sampling rate of up to 192kHz. It's designed for easy plug-and-play use, with no software required.

The overall design of the microphone is impressively compact, with a small included stand. It's also compatible with boom arms.

The RIG M2 Streamstar is available now via Amazon for $129.99, a price that puts it in direct competition with some of the best microphones for streaming today.

You might also like...

• Ugreen reveals exclusive Genshin Impact collection and they're some of the most eye-catching charging products I've ever used
• inZOI early access is the most disappointed I’ve been with a game in years
• I’ve been using first-party controllers for decades, but Hall effect alternatives are now better than ever

Xfinity leads overall in Tallahassee, but CNET’s internet experts have picked other top options for you to consider, too.

• Verdansk is coming back to Warzone on April 3
• The classic map has been rebuilt by Beenox
• It will feature overhauled visuals, including better lighting

Fan-favorite map Verdansk is finally coming back to Call of Duty: Warzone and it looks absolutely stunning.

The development team at Beenox, the studio helming the updated version of the classic environment, has released a new Intel Drop video showing it off and explaining some of the work that's gone into it.

"It's rebuilt from the ground up to recapture the original battle royale experience but now it has stunning new textures [and] improved visuals," explained environment artist Simon Duschense.

"We really wanted to keep this nostalgic feeling while also upgrading it with new technology," he added.

Although it might not look like much has changed, when you compare this new Verdansk to the old environments it's clear that there have been some massive upgrades plus some small changes to its layout.

The lighting is hugely improved, with significantly more realistic shadows and textures that now appear in much higher resolution.

That said, some fans don't seem too thrilled with the news. "We need old feeling, old movement, old TTK, old game. Not just [the] map," said one YouTube commenter. " Another added "it won't be the same unfortunately."

A number of players also seem skeptical about the reliability of the game's anti-cheat systems. "Invest in a better anti-cheat or none of this matters" is currently one of the highest-rated comments under the video.

Verdansk returns to Call of Duty: Warzone on April 3. The game is available now as a free-to-play title on PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S, Xbox One, and PC.

You might also like...

• I’m actually pretty blown away by how Verdansk’s 2025 return is looking, with new lighting and smart tweaks to the landscape that could make things even more tactical
• Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 review: back with a bang
• Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 - everything you need to know now it's out

Enjoy faster Wi-Fi thanks to this Netgear Nighthawk router that's currently a massive $330 off at Amazon.

The buzz around artificial intelligence (AI) has transitioned from futuristic speculation to tangible reality, and nowhere is this more evident than in the customer experience (CX) industry. Businesses worldwide are not only embracing AI but are also seeing measurable benefits that enhance customer interactions, streamline operations and most importantly drive business value.

According to the latest industry research, 96 percent of organizations report that AI has met or exceeded their expectations, revealing an industry rapidly embracing AI not as a mere novelty, but as a strategic imperative. Across the CX industry, AI is now rapidly shifting from an emerging technology to a core operational component, changing how businesses interact with and serve their customers.

Increasing AI investment

Businesses are doubling down on AI investments, recognizing AI’s ability to revolutionize customer engagement and service delivery. With 44 percent of organizations planning to increase their AI investment within the next year, businesses that lag behind risk missing out on competitive advantages.

In addition, the same research has found that 70 percent of organizations now have roles dedicated solely to generative AI, and 68 percent are hiring for additional AI-focused positions. It’s also interesting to note the rise of the ‘Chief AI Officer’ (a role now present in 51 percent of organizations) which further highlights AI's elevation to a strategic, boardroom-level priority, solidifying its place as a key driver of business success.

In recruiting for such roles, organizations are demonstrating the central role that AI will play in their operating models. And from a CX perspective, the value this approach will deliver is substantial.

How is AI transforming CX?

The practical applications of AI in customer experience are vast and quickly evolving. From automation to predictive analytics, AI enables brands to enhance efficiency, personalize interactions and proactively address customer needs – all of which are key drivers of success in today’s experience-driven economy. A McKinsey survey indicates that 65 percent of organisations are now regularly utilising generative AI, nearly double the percentage from the previous year. Research has also revealed the widespread embrace of generative AI tools among CX professionals specifically. An impressive 90 percent have leveraged these tools, with 89 percent reporting a positive impact.

AI is being deployed in various ways, from AI-powered chatbots that handle complex customer queries, to AI-driven systems that deliver personalized product recommendations based on past purchase history. It’s clear to see AI's ability to deliver tangible benefits, from streamlining mundane operational tasks to crafting hyper-personalized customer interactions that resonate on a deeper level.

One of AI’s biggest contributions to CX is in data analysis and predictive modelling. AI-powered analytics allow businesses to process vast amounts of customer data at unparalleled speeds, identifying patterns and predicting customer needs before they arise. This proactive approach enables brands to offer highly personalized experiences, strengthening customer relationships and increasing loyalty.

Powering smarter conversations

Automated communication is also playing a pivotal role in the transformation of CX. Automated chatbots and virtual assistants powered by generative AI are providing instant responses, reducing wait times and improving issue resolution rates. These tools are no longer simple FAQ responders - they are becoming sophisticated conversational agents capable of understanding and resolving complex customer inquiries. AI is also used to analyze customer sentiment during these conversations, allowing companies to identify and address potential issues in real-time.

Another key AI-driven innovation is prescriptive insights, where AI not only analyses past customer interactions but also recommends actionable steps for businesses to take to ensure the delivery of stellar CX. This capability enhances decision-making, ensuring CX teams can act swiftly on customer feedback, optimize touchpoints and deliver frictionless experiences.

The role of AI vendors and partnerships

It’s also important to highlight the increasing importance of strategic vendor partnerships in driving successful AI outcomes. With one third of organizations already implementing vendor-led AI solutions, strategic partnerships play a crucial role in AI’s success in CX. Organizations are looking at AI vendors for a variety of reasons, including enhanced data protection, scalability, and not to mention cost efficiency. As AI adoption grows, however, organizations must ensure their technology partners offer robust security measures, regulatory compliance, and adaptable frameworks that evolve alongside customer needs.

Moreover, research has highlighted the need for tailored AI strategies. A McKinsey survey indicates that only 21 percent of organizations have established policies governing employees' use of generative AI technologies. It’s evident that one-size-fits-all solutions rarely yield optimal results when it comes to CX. Companies that work closely with AI vendors to develop bespoke AI implementations are ultimately better positioned to drive meaningful CX improvements and long-term competitive advantage.

Overcoming challenges to AI integration

Despite AI’s promise, businesses face obstacles that can hinder the realisation of its full potential. An overwhelming 89 percent of businesses are only somewhat or not at all prepared for AI integration. With further research revealing that employee confusion (32 percent), insufficient time to realize benefits (32 percent) and data privacy concerns (23 percent) are among the top challenges organizations face when integrating AI into their CX strategies, how can organizations overcome the challenges to reap the rewards?

Clear communication and training are essential to overcoming employee resistance to AI. Organizations that invest in upskilling their workforce to effectively collaborate with AI-powered tools will maximize the value these technologies bring and enhance the CX delivered. Additionally, addressing data privacy concerns through transparent policies, robust encryption methods and compliance with upcoming regulation (such as the EU AI Act for example) will be critical for businesses looking to maintain customer trust while leveraging AI’s full capabilities. For example, organizations could implement end-to-end encryption on customer data and allow customers to easily opt out of data collection.

The future of AI in CX

AI’s role in customer experience is still evolving, with untapped potential in areas like simulation modelling and agentic applications. These advanced AI capabilities can refine decision-making processes, enhance predictive accuracy, and enable even more seamless customer interactions.

As businesses prepare for an AI-driven future, the need for cross-functional collaboration, strong leadership and well-defined AI governance has never been greater. Organizations that develop scalable AI strategies today will be the ones defining the CX landscape of tomorrow.

Ultimately, AI is a transformative tool, but its return on investment depends on how strategically it’s developed and deployed. The evidence is clear: AI is not just a fleeting trend; it's a fundamental shift that is reshaping the customer experience industry. Businesses that embrace AI with a strategic mindset, a commitment to responsible innovation, and a focus on ethical implementation will be best positioned to thrive in this new era of customer engagement. It is now time to consider how your company will implement AI into your CX strategy.

We've featured the best CRM for small business.

This article was produced as part of TechRadarPro's Expert Insights channel where we feature the best and brightest minds in the technology industry today. The views expressed here are those of the author and are not necessarily those of TechRadarPro or Future plc. If you are interested in contributing find out more here: https://www.techradar.com/news/submit-your-story-to-techradar-pro

• Keenetic suffered a data leak in 2023, but the hacker said the data was destroyed and not shared
• However Cybernews researchers recently received a sample database
• Almost a million Russian households are at risk, experts say

Information on Keenetic router users, originally stolen in March 2023 and thought to have been deleted back then, has surfaced online, potentially putting a million households at significant risk.

In a security notification published on the company’s website, Keenetic said an independent IT researcher reached out in mid-March 2023 to warn about unauthorized access to the Keenetic Mobile App database.

“After verifying the nature and credibility of the risk, we immediately resolved the issue on the afternoon of March 15th 2023,” the company said. Keenetic was then told that the data hadn’t been shared with anybody, and was subsequently destroyed. However, it now seems that wasn’t really the case, since security researchers from Cybernews were recently shown samples via an anonymous tip.

Monitor your credit score with TransUnion starting at $29.95/month

TransUnion is a credit monitoring service that helps you stay on top of your financial health. With real-time alerts, credit score tracking, and identity theft protection, it ensures you never miss important changes. You'll benefit from a customizable online interface with clear insights into your credit profile. Businesses also benefit from TransUnion’s advanced risk assessment tools.

Preferred partner (What does this mean?)View Deal

Names, emails, and plaintext passwords

Cybernews says the number of exposed records include more than a million emails, names, locales, Keycloak identity management system and Network Order IDs, and Telegram Code IDs.

Furthermore, there were 929,501 leaked records containing WiFi SSIDs and passwords in plain text, device models, serial numbers, interfaces, MAC addresses, domain names for external access, encryption keys, and much more.

Then, there were 558,371 device configuration records such as user access details, vulnerable MD-5 hashed passwords, assigned IP addresses, and expanded router settings.

Finally, comprehensive service logs containing over 53,869,785 records were also leaked, including hostnames, MAC addresses, IPs, access details, and even “owner_is_pirate” flags.

Most of the exposed users seem to be Russian-speaking (943,927), with 39,472 victims being English users, and 48,384 Turkish-language users.

After learning about the leak, Keenetic advised users who registered before March 16, 2023, to change their device user account passwords, WiFi passwords, and VPN-client passwords/pre-shared keys for PPTP/L2TP, L2TP/IPSec, IPSec Site-to-Site, SSTP.

Via Cybernews

You might also like

• US government warns Medusa ransomware has hit hundreds of critical infrastructure targets
• We've rounded up the best password managers
• Take a look at our guide to the best authenticator app

• Two more superpowered individuals are rumored to appear in Avengers 5 and 6
• She-Hulk star Tatiana Maslany has been linked with roles in one or both Marvel movies
• Scarlet Witch actor Elizabeth Olsen has seemingly ruled herself out of showing up

I hope you're ready for a packed year of Marvel casting rumors, as two more stars have been linked with roles in the next two Avengers movies.

With filming due to begin on Avengers: Doomsday and Avengers: Secret Wars in the near future, speculation is rife over who'll actually appear in the cinematic double-header. And, depending on whether you choose to believe or disregard the latest gossip, She-Hulk and/or Scarlet Witch may be in line to feature.

Let's start with the latter because we have actual quotes from Elizabeth Olsen, the actor behind Wanda Maximoff/Scarlet Witch, about her potential involvement.

Or, should I say, lack of involvement. Speaking to The Hollywood Reporter, Olsen implied she won't show up in the films that'll likely cap the Marvel Multiverse Saga, due to her shooting the pilot for a new FX TV show called Seven Sisters. That project will be filmed in LA – i.e. half a world away from principal photography beginning in earnest on Doomsday in London.

Elizabeth Olsen has impled she won't appear in Doomsday and/or Secret Wars (Image credit: Marvel Studios)

Olsen isn't the first Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) star to deny they're part of a movie's cast, only to actually appear, mind you (I'm primarily looking at you, Andrew Garfield!).

Sure, Maximoff is still thought to be dead, having seemingly perished in Doctor Strange 2. Marvel fans don't need reminding, though, that nobody ever stays dead in the Marvel Universe, comic books or otherwise. We didn't actually see Scarlet Witch bite the dust in the aforementioned film, either – and we all know that, unless we actually see the body, there's no guarantee that someone is gone for good.

It's for those reasons that MCU devotees have raised a collective eyebrow over Olsen's latest comments, with many believing she's bluffing over a potential appearance. I guess we'll find out if Olsen was telling the truth or not when Avengers 5 and 6 make their theatrical debuts.

Green with envy

Is She-Hulk in line to make her big-screen MCU debut? (Image credit: Marvel Studios/Disney Plus)

As for Maslany's possible casting in one or both Marvel Phase 6 projects, that's similarly difficult to quantify. There is firm evidence, though, that Bruce Banner's cousin could make her first MCU appearance since 2022's She-Hulk: Attorney at Law in Doomsday and/or its sequel.

On March 20, a post on the Comic-Con Liverpool X/Twitter account confirmed that Maslany, who was set to attend the event, had to pull out due to "filming commitments".

Now, a quick scan of Maslany's IMDb page suggests principal photography is due to begin on one of three new projects she's set to star in – none of which are Marvel-related. That hasn't stopped MCU fans from jumping to conclusions, though, and theorizing that She-Hulk will make her big-screen debut very soon.

It would be easy to scoff at such speculation. However, She-Hulk featured in a couple of leaked concept art images for Avengers 5 and 6 earlier in March. Is that artwork the driving force behind this gossip? Perhaps. For what it's worth, Doomsday and Secret Wars' directors, Joe and Anthony Russo, say that concept art has nothing to do with the next two Avengers flicks.

Marvel Unlimited monthly subscription: was $9.99 per month now $4.99 at Marvel
The ultimate digital comics subscription for Marvel fans is offering new and returning customers 50% off their first month, which is much cheaper than a streaming subscription to watch all the best superhero movies. To gain access to a library of more than 30,000 comics, use the code 'SPIDEY50' at checkout. You're able to use the Marvel Unlimited app on all iOS and Android devices, including the web, too. But, be quick – the deal expires on May 5!View Deal

So, read into that what you will – and many have. Indeed, whether it's on various Reddit threads, ResetEra, or other social media outlets and forums, fans are debating if the pair will appear. Some think they will, others aren't so sure, and some are simply sitting on the fence. All of them, though, are bound by the same thing: they're already tired of the sheer number of cast rumors that are circulating online.

All of that said, with pre-production set to make way for principal photography shortly, a clearer picture is starting to emerge about what we can expect from this movie pairing.

On the storytelling front, the Russos exclusively told me that Doomsday and Secret Wars will "draw inspiration" from both 'Secret Wars' comic book series. The pair also didn't deny that heroes from Marvel TV shows on Disney+ will appear in Avengers 5 and 6. Oh, and the two films will herald "a new beginning" for the MCU in more ways than one.

As for other cast rumors, Doctor Strange star Benedict Cumberbatch initially said he wouldn't appear in Doomsday, before backtracking on those comments days later. Robert Downey Jr, who's set to play the Multiverse Saga's new Big Bad in Doctor Doom, isn't the only original Avenger who'll reportedly return to the MCU, either, as former Captain America star Chris Evans has also been linked with the flicks. However, Scarlett Johansson has poured cold water on her returning as Natasha Romanoff/Black Widow.

You might also like

• 'It sets you up for what comes next': Captain America: Brave New World director offers cryptic reply to Marvel fan theories that it paves the way for Avengers: Doomsday
• Get the lowdown on when Daredevil: Born Again episode 5 will be released on Disney+
• Here's how you can watch the Marvel movies in order

Windows 10 support ends in October, marking the end of security patches, bug fixes and feature updates. This deadline demands immediate action from IT decision-makers wanting to avoid security risks, inefficiencies, compliance challenges and costs.

The deadline also represents an opportunity for much more than just an operating system change; it could be transformational for your business. Beyond simply upgrading to Windows 11, this is a chance to modernize hardware, rethink client infrastructure, adopt advanced management technologies — and future-proof your organization. With the right planning, approach and technology partner, the end of Windows 10 could represent an opportunity for competitive differentiation.

Here are six steps not only to help you navigate the Windows 11 transition but rethink your IT strategy to keep you ahead of the curve.

Step 1: Assess your current IT landscape

Start by conducting a comprehensive assessment of your IT environment. Identify systems and devices still running Windows 10, and evaluate their performance, age and compatibility with newer tools and operating systems.

Also consider whether you have the necessary IT resources and competencies, or if you need professional services to support the transition. The Windows 11 journey goes beyond the operating system itself; it encompasses hardware, supporting infrastructure, deployment strategies and modern endpoint management. Transition will likely not happen overnight, so ensure that you assess the professional services you need to pave a smooth path to a successful Windows 11 adoption.

Step 2: Think innovation, not maintenance

Holding on to older devices to avoid upfront costs might be tempting, but this strategy can backfire. Legacy systems often require expensive upkeep and frequent repairs, which drain budgets. Microsoft’s extended security updates cost $ 61 per device for the first year, doubling every consecutive year for a maximum of three years. These hidden costs — combined with downtime and reduced productivity — often outweigh the expense of upgrading.

Additionally, businesses using Windows 10 with extended support must consider how this affects their M365/Office applications. The applications will continue to function after October 14, 2025, but they will no longer be supported. This will likely cause performance and reliability issues over time, even with Microsoft’s extended security updates (ESU). Every moment lost to sluggish hardware is a missed opportunity for innovation and progress. As such, extending the life of Windows 10 support may negate any perceived economic advantage gained by delaying a more considered upgrade.

Step 3: Focus on AI-optimized infrastructure

AI is driving tangible gains for businesses today. AI PCs can help unlock new levels of efficiency, whether you’re looking to develop more intelligent algorithms, streamline operational tasks, or enhance customer experiences. If you’re holding onto legacy systems, however, you won’t have the computing power to support AI-driven applications.

Ask yourself a few critical questions as you plan your upgrades. Are you taking advantage of the latest AI PC innovations? Does your infrastructure have the capacity to meet the demands of AI solutions? Are your competitors inching ahead by investing in AI, while you put a patch on old systems?

This might be the time to examine your broader IT infrastructure and management capabilities, too. Rather than just upgrade to Windows 11 to avoid support costs, this could be the moment to modernize your hardware, infrastructure and operations in one move. Amplify the PC experience further by considering AI-driven noise-cancelling headsets, eye comfort-certified displays and keyboards with easy access to CoPilot.

Step 4: Mitigate security and compliance risks

Operating unsupported systems exposes your business to cyberattacks. Without security updates, hackers can exploit vulnerabilities. Malware, ransomware and data breaches thrive on outdated systems, putting your sensitive information and reputation at risk.

The Techaisle September 2024 survey, reported a 62% drop in security incidents on Windows 11 systems compared to Windows 10. Windows 11 Pro is secure by default. But Windows 11 PC users can combine this with unique integrated security features like BIOS Verification and Indicators of Attack for added protection.

Windows 10 end of life also represents a compliance risk for strict data security regulations observed by UK businesses, such as GDPR. Running unsupported software may put you and your business at risk of violating these regulations. You can mitigate the financial, legal and reputational risk of a data breach or compliance violation by investing in a managed and timely transition to Windows 11. That alone should be the rationale for an upgrade before the October deadline.

Step 5: Champion sustainability and a circular approach to IT

Sustainability is increasingly important to customers and partners. Upgrading ahead of Windows 10’s end of life provides an opportunity to reinforce your IT sustainability commitments. A sustainable device refresh goes beyond environmental responsibility: it makes sounds business sense by driving cost efficiency, improving brand reputation, and complying with regulations.

Thankfully, circular IT is within reach. Using Asset Recovery Services when you refresh can extend the life of legacy IT equipment by reselling it, either as a whole unit form or by harvesting parts. The savings you make can offset the cost of investing in refreshing your IT environment — a win for your IT budget and the planet. It’s a solution that supports your environmental goals and your brand, gives outdated equipment a second life and generates financial returns.

Step 6: Create a strategy and act early

Procrastination comes at a price. Waiting to act until the last moment means rushed decisions, unplanned downtime and unnecessary expenses. A smooth transition from Windows 10 requires time — time to plan, test, train employees, and carry out changes effectively. Define clear timelines with key milestones and allocate resources at each stage. Make sure that you include steps like testing new systems for compatibility and preparing and training users for the new environment.

Modern management solutions can simplify your migration by offering better oversight and streamlined deployment. For example, uniquely, it is now possible for IT to manage entire fleets of devices — including PCs, displays, docks and accessories — remotely. For those without the resources to handle an operating system change, technology partners are on hand to provide end to end professional services. Through consulting, deployment, management and education services, technology partners can help you roll out Windows 11 with minimal disruption.

Taking control of this transition now ensures that your organization can make thoughtful decisions rather than reacting under pressure.

The time to act is now

Staying on Windows 10 after the deadline just to manage an outdated PC base could cost you dearly. You risk exposing your business to security breaches and performance and compliance issues. And with Microsoft charging for extended security updates from October, you’ll pay a high price for an older device with none of the benefit of AI.

Embrace the Windows 11 transition with a comprehensive IT strategy that meets the demands of the modern workplace. Free up your ITDMs with fewer support issues and security incidents, and empower your employees with improved productivity, collaboration and creativity.

We've featured the best business computer.

This article was produced as part of TechRadarPro's Expert Insights channel where we feature the best and brightest minds in the technology industry today. The views expressed here are those of the author and are not necessarily those of TechRadarPro or Future plc. If you are interested in contributing find out more here: https://www.techradar.com/news/submit-your-story-to-techradar-pro

Looking for a different day?

A new Quordle puzzle appears at midnight each day for your time zone – which means that some people are always playing 'today's game' while others are playing 'yesterday's'. If you're looking for Tuesday's puzzle instead then click here: Quordle hints and answers for Tuesday, March 25 (game #1156).

Quordle was one of the original Wordle alternatives and is still going strong now more than 1,100 games later. It offers a genuine challenge, though, so read on if you need some Quordle hints today – or scroll down further for the answers.

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

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

Quordle today (game #1157) - hint #1 - Vowels How many different vowels are in Quordle today?

• The number of different vowels in Quordle today is 4*.

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

Quordle today (game #1157) - hint #2 - repeated letters Do any of today's Quordle answers contain repeated letters?

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

Quordle today (game #1157) - hint #3 - uncommon letters Do the letters Q, Z, X or J appear in Quordle today?

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

Quordle today (game #1157) - hint #4 - starting letters (1) Do any of today's Quordle puzzles start with the same letter?

• The number of today's Quordle answers starting with the same letter is 2.

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

Quordle today (game #1157) - hint #5 - starting letters (2) What letters do today's Quordle answers start with?

• L

• N

• N

• T

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

Quordle today (game #1157) - the answers

(Image credit: Merriam-Webster)

The answers to today's Quordle, game #1157, are…

• LEFTY
• NOOSE
• NOISE
• TRIAD

Having two similar words in the same puzzle is so Quordle – today it was NOOSE and NOISE, with just one letter of separation between them.

It certainly made for an easier quiz, as did my guess of FELTY, which gave me all the right letters for LEFTY.

Far harder today was the Daily Sequence, which featured a no-vowel word and a word with a Z. I failed, obviously.

How did you do today? Let me know in the comments below.

Daily Sequence today (game #1157) - the answers

(Image credit: Merriam-Webster)

The answers to today's Quordle Daily Sequence, game #1157, are…

• SLYLY
• DEFER
• SWEET
• CRAZE

Quordle answers: The past 20

• Quordle #1156, Tuesday 25 March: SNEER, WATCH, FLORA, STAIN
• Quordle #1155, Monday 24 March: FLOUT, SMASH, RAZOR, SMALL
• Quordle #1154, Sunday 23 March: ALLEY, GAMUT, GEESE, RADII
• Quordle #1153, Saturday 22 March: PICKY, BRACE, BOOZE, SURLY
• Quordle #1152, Friday 21 March: DITTY, VALOR, TOWER, AMISS
• Quordle #1151, Thursday 20 March: RIPER, STILL, WAFER, NOTCH
• Quordle #1150, Wednesday 19 March: FLAME, CARAT, SPAWN, TUNIC
• Quordle #1149, Tuesday 18 March: NAVEL, TREAT, COPSE, SLINK
• Quordle #1148, Monday 17 March: INFER, FLINT, CHUMP, SHEER
• Quordle #1147, Sunday 16 March: INPUT, RUMBA, ELUDE, BLANK
• Quordle #1146, Saturday 15 March: SPEED, CLASH, RISKY, GRATE
• Quordle #1145, Friday 14 March: BELIE, SPEAR, GROWL, ADOBE
• Quordle #1144, Thursday 13 March: AMISS, METAL, TEARY, SHORT
• Quordle #1143, Wednesday 12 March: AWASH, PUSHY, RALPH, PROOF
• Quordle #1142, Tuesday 11 March: LINGO, JUICE, SHARP, REVEL
• Quordle #1141, Monday 10 March: AVAIL, THESE, TITAN, GAUGE
• Quordle #1140, Sunday 9 March: SKILL, IDEAL, WHERE, REHAB
• Quordle #1139, Saturday 8 March: WATCH, LAPSE, WREST, HEFTY
• Quordle #1138, Friday 7 March: GLEAN, SHINY, DECRY, MANGA
• Quordle #1137, Thursday 6 March: TRICE, EIGHT, BELCH, RIPER

Looking for a different day?

A new NYT Connections puzzle appears at midnight each day for your time zone – which means that some people are always playing 'today's game' while others are playing 'yesterday's'. If you're looking for Tuesday's puzzle instead then click here: NYT Connections hints and answers for Tuesday, March 25 (game #653).

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

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

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

NYT Connections today (game #654) - today's words

(Image credit: New York Times)

Today's NYT Connections words are…

• PINOT
• CARD
• SHOT
• GLASS
• ROSE
• QUARTZ
• DRIVE
• THRUST
• CLOUD
• BOUNCE
• PLATE
• DISK
• NAPKIN
• FLEW
• GALLEON
• FORK

NYT Connections today (game #654) - hint #1 - group hints

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

• YELLOW: Formal dining
• GREEN: Greater
• BLUE: Backed up
• PURPLE: Measurements with added element 

Need more clues?

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

NYT Connections today (game #654) - hint #2 - group answers

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

• YELLOW: PARTS OF A TABLE SETTING 
• GREEN: INCREASED, WITH "UP" 
• BLUE: KINDS OF DIGITAL STORAGE 
• PURPLE: UNITS OF VOLUME PLUS LETTER 

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

NYT Connections today (game #654) - the answers

(Image credit: New York Times)

The answers to today's Connections, game #654, are…

• YELLOW: PARTS OF A TABLE SETTING FORK, GLASS, NAPKIN, PLATE
• GREEN: INCREASED, WITH "UP" FLEW, ROSE, SHOT, THRUST
• BLUE: KINDS OF DIGITAL STORAGE CARD, CLOUD, DISK, DRIVE
• PURPLE: UNITS OF VOLUME PLUS LETTER BOUNCE, GALLEON, PINOT, QUARTZ

• My rating: Moderate
• My score: 1 mistake

Initially I thought there was a silent letter category today and put QUARTZ, which on reflection makes no sense, with FLEW, PINOT, ROSE.

Then I saw KINDS OF DIGITAL STORAGE.

CLOUD storage once seemed incredibly hard to explain – my photos are kept where? In a cloud? Now it seems strange that we once stored things on a CARD.

Next, I got INCREASED WITH “UP” and was utterly blind to UNITS OF VOLUME PLUS LETTER – a classic Connections group that rewards people who can spot patterns in words and will confound people like myself who can look at the word BOUNCE for a lifetime without considering that it could also be ounce with an added B.

How did you do today? Let me know in the comments below.

Yesterday's NYT Connections answers (Tuesday, 25 March, game #653)

• YELLOW: BLACK-AND-WHITE THINGS CROSSWORD, OREO, PANDA, TUXEDO
• GREEN: ANAGRAMS ABEL, ABLE, BALE, BELA
• BLUE: U.S. PRESIDENTIAL NICKNAMES ABE, CAL, DICK, TEDDY
• PURPLE: CLEAR AS ___ A BELL, CRYSTAL, DAY, MUD

What is NYT Connections?

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

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

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

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