TechRadar News

• Netflix has announced an Assassin's Creed TV series is coming to the streamer
• It has been in the making for almost five years but we don't have much information yet
• The plot describes the series as "a high-octane thriller centered on the secret war between two shadowy factions"

Netflix has greenlit an Assassin's Creed TV adaptation, giving me hope once again after previous attempts to adapt the video game for the screen have flopped.

In 2016, the Michael Fassbender led movie was critically panned and received an 18% Rotten Tomatoes critical score. But news that the story is coming to one of the best streaming services has piqued my interest.

We have seen some huge success with video game adaptations recently, of course, like Prime Video's Fallout or HBO's The Last of Us, so we can only hope that second time's a charm when it comes to Assassin's Creed.

What do we know about Netflix's Assassin's Creed?

The Assassin's Creed movie was a critical flop. (Image credit: New Regency Productions)

At the time of writing, we don't know much. Netflix hasn't released a trailer or a cast list, but they have confirmed who is leading the project.

Emmy nominees Roberto Patino (Westworld) and David Wiener (Halo) will serve as creators, showrunners, and executive producers on the Assassin's Creed series. Given their work on some big shows, this does fill me with hope.

The Halo video game to screen adaptation scored a healthy 80% on Rotten Tomatoes, making it worthy of a spot on our best Paramount+ shows, so that's a positive start.

In terms of plot, all we have so far is a statement from Tudum which reads: "Assassin’s Creed is a high-octane thriller centered on the secret war between two shadowy factions — one set on determining mankind’s future through control and manipulation, while the other fights to preserve free will."

It adds: “The series follows its characters across pivotal historical events as they battle to shape humanity’s destiny.”

That isn't a lot to go off, and fans of the video games already know the universe well, so it will be interesting to see how far it sticks with or deviates from the source material.

Either way, I'm excited to give this one a go and pray it will one day be added to our best Netflix shows list.

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• Cisco patched a maximum-severity flaw impacting Identity Services Engine and ISE Passive Identity Connector
• The flaw allowed threat actors to run arbitrary code on the underlying OS
• It was patched in versions 3.3 and 3.4

A maximum-severity vulnerability was recently discovered, and patched, in Cisco Identity Services Engine (ISE) and ISE Passive Identity Connector (ISE-PIC). This flaw allowed threat actors to execute arbitrary code, with elevated privileges, on the operating system of the devices running the tools.

ISE is a network security policy management and access control platform, helping organizations centrally manage who and what can connect to their network. The ISE-PIC, on the other hand, is a lightweight service that collects identity information about users and devices without requiring them to authenticate via traditional methods.

Both tools are typically used by enterprise IT and cybersecurity teams that manage large or complex network environments.

The importance of patching

Recently, security researcher Kentaro Kawane, from GMO Cybersecurity, discovered an insufficient validation of user-supplied input vulnerability that could be exploited by submitting a crafted API request. Valid credentials are not required to abuse the flaw.

It is tracked as CVE-2025-20337, and was given a severity score of 10/10 (critical). It affects releases 3.3 and 3.4 of the tools, regardless of device configuration. However, releases 3.2 or older are not affected.

Cisco addressed the flaws in these versions:

- Cisco ISE or ISE-PIC Release 3.3 (Fixed in 3.3 Patch 7)
- Cisco ISE or ISE-PIC Release 3.4 (Fixed in 3.4 Patch 2)

The good news is that there is no evidence the vulnerability has been exploited in the wild by malicious actors. However, cybercriminals are known for targeting organizations only after a bug was made public, since many entities don’t rush to apply the patches. By keeping hardware and software outdated, organizations are keeping their back doors wide open, and criminals are getting an easy way into the premises.

Therefore, it would be good practice to apply the patches as soon as possible and prevent possible attacks.

Via The Hacker News

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• Donkey Kong wears clothes in Bananza because Nintendo was "conscious" of what he would look like "from the back"
• Donkey Kong went through a redesign because his brown fur "would make for a monotonous visual"
• Producer Kenta Motokura said the character's fur was also improved

Nintendo has explained why Donkey Kong wears clothes in the latest Switch 2 exclusive, Donkey Kong Bananza.

For as long as Donkey Kong has been around, he's typically been portrayed completely naked (if a monkey can even be naked), but in the latest installment, the star ape underwent a makeover, in both character design and wardrobe.

According to Nintendo, the team thought to give Donkey Kong some clothes this time around because it was aware of what he would look like from behind to players.

"When controlling a character in a 3D world, the player often sees them from behind, so we were also conscious of how Donkey Kong would look from the back while he's moving," said producer Kenta Motokura in a recent Ask the Developer Q&A.

"The back view of Donkey Kong just looks like a mass of brown fur, which would make for a monotonous visual if we simply rendered him in 3D."

Motokura also said that the development team was inspired to make creative adjustments to Donkey Kong's outfit and decided to give him a snazzy tie, britches, and suspenders.

The character's fur was also improved to "look rich and thick", and his original design, created by Shigeru Miyamoto, has been revamped for the new game and even Mario Kart World.

"That basic Donkey Kong design has been completely revamped. While overhauling the design, we returned to where it had all started. We took Miyamoto-san's original Donkey Kong as the basis, adding design elements from Donkey Kong Bananza here and there," he explained.

In TechRadar Gaming's review, hardware writer Dashiell Wood called Donkey Kong Bananza "the greatest Nintendo Switch 2 title to date, delivering an incredible destruction system that showcases the power of the new system."

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In years past, tech fans and industry commentators alike would mock Apple when it came time for the launch of its interstitial S model iPhones, noting a lack of substantial change between, say, the iPhone X and iPhone Xs as compared to the wider rift between the iPhone X and iPhone 11.

Fast forward a few years, and Apple has ditched the S suffix altogether, instead marketing each year's iPhone as a full-on numbered release. The iPhone 15 is followed by the iPhone 16 and so on.

However, the upgrades between each model don’t always feel like a full step forwards. We get some huge jumps – the iPhone 15 Pro to the iPhone 16 Pro, for example – and some tiny ones, like the iPhone 13 to the iPhone 14.

With last year’s launch of Apple Intelligence, though, it seems Apple figured out a way around the pesky realities of research and development: just launch the thing, and finish it later. What could possibly go wrong?

Apple Intelligence could have been released more, well... intelligently (Image credit: Apple)

As it turns out, quite a lot. Apple Intelligence earned itself a place on our list of the biggest tech flops of 2024, and I still think of it it as an ill-defined, nebulous, and incomplete product, even though it now comprises a pretty robust suite of AI tools. All of that seemingly hasn’t stopped the trend from catching on, though, as one of Apple’s biggest competitors demonstrated this year.

I am, of course, talking about Samsung’s beleaguered One UI 7 update, which came to Galaxy users in April after months of delays. That would be a fairly normal sentence, if it weren’t for the fact that Galaxy S25, Galaxy S25 Plus, and Galaxy S25 Ultra users had been running One UI 7 on their phones since they launched in January, and the additional fact that Android 15, which One UI 7 is based on, had been out since October.

So, those who shelled out to secure a top-of-the-line Samsung phone earlier this year had been left running pre-release software, while customers who bought a high-end Galaxy phone even a year ago were left been left with betas and test versions of Samsung’s latest Android wrapper.

I recently recapped the One UI 7 drama and was left feeling hopeful by the quick reveal of One UI 8 alongside the upcoming Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Galaxy Z Flip 7 folding phones, so I'll ease off Samsung for now. But there's still a chance that the rollouts of Apple Intelligence and One UI 7 set a precedent for future updates and for using 'finished' products as testing grounds rather than full releases.

Giving One UI 7 an exact launch date is difficult, such was the length and disorganization of its rollout (Image credit: Samsung / Future)

So, what now? Well, the biggest confirmed upcoming release on the mobile software calendar is without question iOS 26, which promises to bring a new design, overhauled default apps, and improved power efficiency to Apple's mobile platform.

It's looking good so far. Apple's WWDC 2025 keynote didn't spark any major controversies, and presented enough of iOS 26 that I'd normally feel pretty confident about the launch state of Apple's next major software update.

And as mentioned, One UI 8 is on the way with Samsung's next foldable phones, so keep an eye out for our Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 review and Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7 review for a detailed look at Samsung's new software (though the issue with One UI 7 was less about its function and more about how it was released).

However, the string of botched software launches in the last 12 months has got me wary. Though I obviously can't blame Apple for the launch of One UI 7, nor Samsung for the launch of Apple Intelligence, it's jarring that two of the world's biggest tech companies managed to fumble two major launches in the same period.

The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Galaxy Z Flip 7 bring with them the first look at One UI 8 (Image credit: Samsung)

As a resident of the TechRadar mobile computing desk, I know that both Apple and Samsung have the potential to put out fully-formed, innovative, and genuinely useful software. I'm hopeful that both can get back to this going forwards.

What do you think? Is this the start of a trend or just two coincidental slip-ups from two big tech heavy hitters? Let us know in the comments below.

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• Adobe release new Firefly video generation model that's better than ever
• The Firefly Web App now supports non-Adobe video generation models like Veo 3
• A new Generate Sound Effects beta app makes it easy to add sound effects to your videos

Adobe Firefly has given its AI video generation capabilities a timely upgrade. It has upgraded its video model to version 1.9, which brings more realism and precision in storytelling. It's available in the Firefly Web App right now.

Adobe cites one of the strengths of its new Firefly Video Model as “generating dynamic landscapes from natural vistas to urban environments. The model also demonstrates remarkable capability with animal motion and behavior, atmospheric elements like weather patterns and particle effects, and mastering both 2D and 3D animation.”

You can see this demonstrated in this example video of a cinematic drone shot going between the trees of a snowy forest at sunset golden hour:

Adobe has also partnered with other generative video models, so you can now select Veo 3, Luma, Runway, and Topaz all from within the Firefly Web app.

Generate Sound Effects (beta)

As part of the new Firefly, there’s also a new beta version of Generate Sound Effects, for creating custom, high-quality audio from text prompts or voice cues.

It involves you making voice sounds that are close to the sort of sound effect you want in your video, and the AI then works out what sort of sound you really want to add. So, in a beach scene, if you start making “Kaaw! Kaaw!” noises, the AI works out that you want seagull sounds.

I’ve had a go at using the voice cues method, and it certainly made everybody in the office think I had gone mad! Here's an example of how it works:

More video enhancements

Using Firefly, you can create AI-generated video from either a text prompt or a reference image, but you can now also upload a reference video, and Firefly will generate a new video that transfers the original composition to your generation. The new video model has a new level of precision control when you’re directing video content.

There are also several style presets available, allowing you to apply a distinct visual style with a single click. Presets available include claymation, anime, line art, and 2D.

Finally, there’s keyframe cropping. You can upload your first and last frames, select how your image will be cropped, and describe the scene, and Firefly will generate a video that fits the format.

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Stranger Things season 5: key information

- Will be the main show's final entry
- Launching in three parts
- First volume arrives in late November
- Volumes 2 and 3 arrive in December 2025 and January 2026
- First trailer released in mid-July
- Core cast set to return
- Major characters could die
- Episode titles revealed in November 2024
- Will answer big questions about the Upside Down
- Animated spin-off's title revealed in June

Stranger Things season 5 is still four months away (at the time of this article's latest update) from being released.

Despite having to wait so long for the incredibly popular Netflix show's final entry, though, we've finally been given a trailer to pore over as we count down the weeks to its November 26/27 release on the world's best streaming service. You'll need to read this guide's trailer section to learn more about it, though.

There's plenty more to read about below, too. Indeed, from Stranger Things' fifth and final season's trio of release dates and confirmed cast, to plot details and the franchise's future, our expert (i.e. me) has combed the web to bring you the biggest and latest news about one of the best Netflix shows' final hurrah. Full spoilers follow for Stranger Things season 4. Possible spoilers for season 5 are on the way, too.

Stranger Things season 5 release date

the fight isn’t over yet. get ready for the epic series finale of STRANGER THINGS.VOL 1 — november 26, 5pm PT*VOL 2 — christmas, 5pm PT*THE FINALE — new year’s eve, 5pm PT**releasing worldwide all at once, date may vary based on your local timezone #TUDUM pic.twitter.com/vv78eN0LRzJune 1, 2025

Stranger Things season 5's release dates were revealed at Netflix Tudum 2025. It'll launch in three parts, too, with volume 1 (episodes 1 through 4) out on November 26 in the US, and November 27 in the UK and Australia. You can see when the volumes 2 and 3 will arrive in the above X/Twitter post.

Previously, Netflix only confirmed Stranger Things 5 would debut sometime in 2025. That came as a relief as we were worried that season 5 wouldn't arrive until 2026. That was in spite of principal photography wrapping on Stranger Things 5 in December 2024, too.

Stranger Things season 5 trailer

At long last, Stranger Things season 5's first official trailer was released on July 16. Netflix confirmed Stranger Things 5's teaser launch date one day earlier, so we knew it'd arrive ahead of time.

For more in-depth analysis and updates on the teaser, which you can view above, read my Stranger Things season 5 trailer launch blog.

Missed the first round of season 5 footage, which debuted at Netflix Tudum 2025 as part of a Stranger Things legacy teaser? Check it out below:

Ahead of that teaser's debut, Netflix released a behind-the-scenes look at season 5 in mid-2024.

The video represented our first proper look at Stranger Things season 5 – one that revealed new characters, fan-favorite team-ups, and a possible time jump, but didn't feature any actual footage.

Take it all in, nerds…we’ve hit the halfway mark of filming the final season and wanted to give you all a look at what we’ve been up to pic.twitter.com/RdQsZvoPYwJuly 15, 2024

Stranger Things season 5 cast: confirmed and rumored

Doctor Kay is one of four new characters we'll see in season 5 (Image credit: Netflix)

Major spoilers follow for Stranger Things season 4.

Here's the confirmed cast for Stranger Things season 5 as of July 2025:

• Winona Ryder as Joyce Byers
• David Harbour as Jim Hopper
• Millie Bobby Brown as Eleven
• Finn Wolfhard as Mike Wheeler
• Gaten Matarazzo as Dustin Henderson
• Caleb McLaughlin as Lucas Sinclair
• Noah Schnapp as Will Byers
• Sadie Sink as Max Mayfield
• Natalie Dyer as Nancy Wheeler
• Charlie Heaton as Jonathan Byers
• Joe Keery as Steve Harrington
• Maya Hawke as Robin Buckley
• Priah Ferguson as Erica Sinclair
• Brett Gelman as Murray Bauman
• Jamie Campbell-Bower as Vecna
• Cara Buono as Karen Wheeler
• Amybeth McNulty as Vickie
• Nell Fisher as Holly Wheeler
• Jake Connelly as Derek Turnbow
• Alex Breaux as Lieutenant Akers
• Linda Hamilton as Doctor Kay

Established cast members notwithstanding, the biggest news is that Terminator star Linda Hamilton has joined the Stranger Things 5 ranks. She'll play a gun-toting scientist called Doctor Kay.

She isn't the only cast addition. July 2024's behind-the-scenes teaser confirmed by Fisher (Evil Dead Rise), Breaux (Waco: The Aftermath), and up-and-comer Connelly are also part of proceedings. Fisher will play Holly Wheeler, aka Mike and Nancy's younger sibling, while Connelly and Breaux have been cast as Derek and Lieutenant Akers.

Nell Fisher ("Evil Dead Rise"), Alex Breaux ("Waco: The Aftermath"), and newcomer Jake Connelly have joined the cast of #StrangerThings5! pic.twitter.com/aBI6bIVqHqJuly 15, 2024

I suspect supporting characters from past seasons migh show up, too. Ted Wheeler (Joe Chrest), Lieutenant Colonel Jack Sullivan (Sherman Augustus), and Suzie (Gabriella Pizzolo) should be back. Meanwhile, Doctor Sam Owens' (Paul Reiser) fate is unknown after he was left handcuffed to a pipe in the subterranean Nina Project in season 4. However, I'd be surprised if he doesn't feature.

Lastly, Eduardo Franco has confirmed (per IGN) he didn't receive the call to reprise his role as fan-favorite season 4 character Argyle. Joseph Quinn's Eddie Munson won't be back, either, following his death in last season's finale. Other season 4 characters in Dmitri Antonov (Tom Wlaschiha) and Yuri Ismaylov (Nikola Duricko) are unlikely to appear as well.

Stranger Things season 5 story synopsis and speculation

What are Mike and Lucas up to here? (Image credit: Netflix)

Full spoilers follow for Stranger Things season 4. Potential season 5 spoilers are also discussed.

Here's Stranger Things season 5's story synopsis: "The fall of 1987. Hawkins is scarred by the opening of the Rifts, and our heroes are united by a single goal: find and kill Vecna. But, he has vanished – his whereabouts and plans unknown.

"Complicating their mission, the government has placed the town under military quarantine and intensified its hunt for Eleven, forcing her back into hiding. As the anniversary of Will’s disappearance approaches, so does a heavy, familiar dread. The final battle is looming – and with it, a darkness more powerful and more deadly than anything they’ve faced before. To end this nightmare, they’ll need everyone – the full party – standing together, one last time."

Careful what you do with that chainsaw, Steve... (Image credit: Netflix)

Given this season marks the end of one of Netflix's biggest TV Originals, it's set to go out with a bang.

For one, Stranger Things 5 will test our runtime limits, with Maya Hawke revealing that "basically, eight movies" have been filmed. Season 5's 12-month shoot yielded 650-plus hours of footage, too, which has been whittled down for its "blockbuster movie" episodes, according to co-creators Matt and Ross Duffer.

Furthermore, we know what this season's episode titles are. The season 5 premiere title, aka 'The Crawl', was unveiled in mid-2022 – here are four big theories on what Stranger Things 5's first episode title could mean – while the others were unveiled last November.

• Episode 1 – The Crawl
• Episode 2 – The Vanishing Of [Redacted]
• Episode 3 – The Turnbow Trap
• Episode 4 – Sorcerer
• Episode 5 – Shock Jock
• Episode 6 – Escape From Camazotz
• Episode 7 – The Bridge
• Episode 8 – The Rightside Up

Interestingly, the Duffers confirmed they rewrote parts of season 5 (per Netflix Tudum) based on fan feedback, which means the show will end in a different way than they originally intended. Thankfully, nothing about season 5's concluding chapter has appeared online, even after Netflix reportedly suffered a major Stranger Things 5 leak in February. For now, then, its biggest secrets are still being kept under wraps.

Before the end credits roll for the final time, our heroes must join forces to try to stop Vecna – the show's primary antagonist – for good.

"Our characters are going after Vecna from minute one," Ross Duffer told Stranger Things season 4 volume 2 unlocked episode in July 2022. "We have a lot to do, in terms of a few more revelations, and also we need to make sure we give our characters time to make these final arcs."

Vecna returns as the TV show's primary villain (Image credit: Netflix)

So, what happened in the season 4 finale? Vecna was severely injured by Nancy, Steve, and Robin at Creel House but, when they go looking for Vecna's body, it's gone. The series' main villain appears to crawled away to recover from his wounds, then.

He was technically victorious in season 4, though. Max, his final victim, died for a whole minute after he attacked her, thereby causing four rifts to the Upside Down to open in the center of Hawkins. Based on season 5's first trailer, the two realities will clash as Vecna tries to finish what he started – i.e. destroying everything that our heroes hold dear.

If anything happens to Holly, we'll riot! (Image credit: Netflix)

To put a stop to his world-ending plan, the show's main characters are already assembled in Hawkins so, while they'll break into smaller groups to cover as much ground as possible, they're still effectively working together. Speaking on the Happy Sad Confused podcast, Matt Duffer said that was an intentional creative decision, adding: "We want to go back to a lot things we did in season 1 and a lot of the original groupings and pairings that we had."

But back to Max. She's in a medically-induced coma following her near-fatal encounter with Vecna in the Stranger Things season 4 finale. When Eleven went searching for Max in the Void, though, she couldn't find her, so it's unclear if Max will ever wake up.

Before filming on season 5 began, Sink said she was in the dark about Max's fate, but you can read our thoughts on how Max's story could go one of two ways in Stranger Things season 5. However, in images posted from the season 5 set (see the below Instagram post's third photograph), Ross Duffer teased Lucas will try to coax Max out of her unconscious state using music – and, in particular, her love to Kate Bush.

A post shared by Ross Duffer (@rossduffer)

A photo posted by on

Elsewhere Noah Schnapp, who plays Will Byers, dropped a big hint to Vogue about his season 5 character arc, saying: "There’s a lot in store for Will. It ties back to where it begins, full circle. I’m excited for fans to see where we wrap his character. I think they’ll be really pleased, but also shocked."

Schnapp also told US magazine that Will is the "center point" of Stranger Things 5, before revealing (via Forbes) that the whole show "ends with Will". Based on the X/Twitter post below, it could begin with a flashback showing us a de-aged Will or, as seen in a video from Schnapp (post on Ross Duffer's X/Twitter account) showed, a present day Will revisiting Castle Byers, aka his self-erected childhood hideout.

Season 5. Chapter 1. Scene 1. pic.twitter.com/TIkf1DNipuNovember 7, 2023

Ross Duffer corroborated Schnapp's comments in conversation with Variety, adding: "Will really takes center stage again. This emotional arc for him is what we feel is going to hopefully tie the whole series together. Will is used to being the young one, the introverted one, the one that’s being protected. So part of his journey, it’s not just sexuality – it’s Will coming into his own as a young man."

As for potential character deaths, Stranger Things season 5 sounds like it'll be the deadliest yet, which implies some main characters will perish. Place your bets on who'll make it out live now.

Teasing what else fans can expect, Matt Duffer told the Happy Sad Confused podcast that the show's final few episodes will be like The Lord of the Rings in its design.

Will, err, Will make it out of season 5 alive? (Image credit: Netflix)

"It [the season 5 finale] is going to be Return of the King-ish with eight endings," he said. "If you just watch Return of the King, it feels like too many endings. [But] if you watch all of them back-to-back, which I’ve done multiple times, it’s exactly right. If it were any shorter, it would feel cheap and wrong."

As for other subplots that need resolving, we should find out why the Upside Down is seemingly stuck in 1984. We still don't have all the answers – outside of what's revealed in prequel stage play Stranger Things: The First Shadow – about this realm. We're also in the dark about why it's spookier and more dingy than the realm Henry Creel first traveled to, or what The Mind Flayer is. Ross Duffer (per Stranger Things season 4 volume 2's unlocked episode) claims those queries will be answered.

The Hellfire Club, back together one last time (Image credit: Netflix)

There's also the loose end concerning number eight – aka Kali Prasad. We haven't seen Kali since season 2 and, unlike every other test subject under Doctor Brenner's supervision (who had telekinetic abilities), she had different powers. Why was she the odd one out? And will we see her again?

It's possible Stranger Things season 5 won't answer everything. After all, the Duffers have retconned some early season plot points in later instalments (via Variety). Maybe Kali's story is just one of those lingering mysteries we'll never get closure on.

And what of the show's last-ever episode? We have no idea how it'll end, but Matarazzo told NME that fans can prepare to see a "satisfying" and "cathartic" final chapter, while Wolfhard told People.com that he was "satisfied... confused... and sad" about it. David Harbour also told THR that the series' final episode is "the best episode they [the Duffers] have done" before teasing how tear-jerking it is. Have a box of tissues at the ready, everyone!

The future of Stranger Things

Season 5 of Stranger Things is the end of the mainline show, but there are other projects in the works at Upside Down Pictures, aka the Duffers' production company.

The first of those – a stage play that's titled Stranger Things: The First Shadow – is set in 1959 and tells the tale of the Creel Family's arrival in Hawkins. It also shows us Jim Hopper, Henry Creel, and other notable characters in their teens. It's currently playing on Broadway, but it's a prequel that might mean Stranger Things season 5 hits the big Marvel and Star Wars problem. Based on a huge plot point it'll contain, The First Shadow's big lore reveal will need addressing in season 5 for anyone who doesn't get the chance to watch it.

As for other projects, an animated spin-off called Stranger Things: Tales From '85 is due out on Netflix sometime in 2026. Attendees were treated to some first-look images at the series, which takes place between seasons 2 and 3, and will feature a new supernatural threat for Eleven and company to deal with. Everything else is being kept under wraps.

For more Netflix-based coverage, read our guides on Bridgerton season 4, One Piece season 2, Wednesday season 2, and Avatar: The Last Airbender season 2.

As sister companies, both Mint Mobile and Ultra Mobile offer some of the best cheap cell phone plans on the market right now - especially when it comes to bang for the buck. They both operate similarly, with flexible buy-in-bulk multi-month plans, generous data allowances, and 5G data speeds as standard on all plans.

As we all know, Mint Mobile is the carrier that's really making waves right now thanks to its high-profile ad campaigns, but that doesn't mean Ultra Mobile doesn't offer some great plans in its own right. In this article, we're going to give you the low-down on how these two prepaid phone plans differ and who they're generally looking to cater to. If you're on the fence, we'll also weigh in with an overall verdict on which one we think is the best for most users too.

Two excellent prepaid carriers

Mint Mobile: prepaid plans from $15 a month
With generous data allowances and cell phones for as little as $15 a month, it's easy to see why Mint Mobile is one of the most popular carriers out there right now. With a flexible 'buy-in-bulk' payment scheme, Mint Mobile plans offer a number of compelling plans for all types of user. Remember though, to get the lowest monthly rates possible with Mint you'll need to sign up for a lengthier plan - and pay upfront.
5GB: $15/mo | 15GB: $20/mo | 20GB: $25/mo | Unl: $30/mo

Ultra Mobile: prepaid plans from $10 a month
Sister company to Mint, Ultra Mobile also offers the same excellent 'buy-in-bulk' pricing with a ton of great plans to choose from. Unlike Mint, however, Ultra Mobile also features options for single-month plans and ultra-budget low-data allowance options. It's also got free international calling and text to over 80 countries with its plans, making it a great choice for those who are visiting the US.
4GB: $13/mo | 8GB: $17/mo | 12GB: $20/mo | Unl: $34/mo

Plans, coverage and pricing

Both Mint Mobile and Ultra Mobile have pretty similar 'buy-in-bulk' pricing schemes where you'll get the best deal overall if you commit to a longer service period. While there are still no service contracts to sign, you will, for example, get the lowest monthly rate on average with each service if you sign up for a yearly plan.

Key facts

Network
Mint: T-Mobile
Ultra: T-Mobile

Prices
Mint: $15 to $30/mo
Ultra: $10 to $59/mo

Plan length
Mint: 3 mo, 6 mo, 1 year
Ultra: 1 mo, 3 mo, 6 mo, 1 year

Ultra Mobile does, however, have the option for a single-month plan - which is more like what you'd expect from a traditional prepaid carrier. This one's great if you simply need a temporary SIM card for a burner device since you can simply pay $19 upfront and get a full month of service. In comparison, you have to spend at least $45 to get the cheapest SIM on Mint Mobile for a 3-month plan.

Ultra Mobile has also recently, as of mid 2025, tweaked its entire line-up of plans to include more data, and in some cases, cheaper monthly prices. The gap between the two carrier's is closing quite rapidly now, although Mint still has the overall edge in terms of a cheap unlimited plan. The carrier's unlimited plan is a little cheaper at $30/mo on average if you pay for a full year upfront, and Mint also regularly offers new customer discounts.

Both being T-Mobile carriers, coverage will essentially be the same regardless of which service you pick. If you'd like to see what coverage is like in your area, then you can use T-Mobile's own coverage checker right here.

• Winner: draw

Perks and features

Again, on the surface, both carriers offer very similar perks and features overall, with 5G data speeds where applicable, free mobile hot-spotting, and unlimited talk and text.

Key facts

Unlimited 5G data speeds
Mint: uncapped
Ultra: uncapped

Mobile hotspot
Mint: free (10GB max on unl. plan)
Ultra: free (25GB max on unl. plan)

Streaming
Mint: 480p video (on unlimited)
Ultra: 480p video (on unlimited)

International calls
Mint: free to Mex and Can
Ultra: free call and text to 80+ countries

Things do however start to differentiate when you look at things like international calling - of which Ultra Mobile puts more of a focus on with its plans specifically.

For example, While you do get free calling and texting to Mexico and Canada with Mint, Ultra on the other hand offers free calling and texting to over 90 international destinations. This small feature positions Ultra Mobile as the primo option for tourists and international visitors looking for a cheap burner SIM card.

Mint doesn't really bake-in a lot of international features for its plans since they're most likely intended primarily for a domestic audience. The Mint Unlimited plan is a lot cheaper per month though for those who don't need international calling outside of Mexico and Canada.

As of 2024, both carriers feature family plan support. Mint's family plan supports up to five lines at a time and allows you to get each line at the cheapest (yearly) rate while only having to pay for three months at a time. It's technically not a saving versus paying for the lines separately but it allows you to save time by combining several lines into one account - and you'll have to pay way less upfront, too.

Ultra's family plan lets you pay for additional lines on the monthly unlimited data plan for $24 per line. While you'll still have to pay $49 per month for the first line, adding up to five lines can equates to a total of $145 per month for a total saving of $100. Again, having multiple lines under a single account is super handy for cutting out the paperwork and admin.

• Winner: draw

Mint Mobile vs Ultra Mobile: the bottom line

Even though the two services are extremely similar on paper, it's easy to see both these carriers cater to two different types of cell phone users. If you're looking for a cheap single-month plan to use in a burner device or need international calling, then there's really no competition here - Ultra Mobile is the best choice.

That said, for most domestic users in the US, Mint Mobile will offer vastly better value overall when it comes to long-term plans with bigger data allowances. Since the use case for Ultra Mobile is quite niche, we'd generally say Mint Mobile is the better choice for most people right now.

• Winner: Mint Mobile

• Dreame Aqua10 is designed to revolutionize robovac mopping
• It comes with a roller mop that cleans itself as it mops
• Also features a carpet guard, roller fluffer, and hot water bath in the dock

Dreame is quickly becoming a brand to watch when it comes to robot vacuum innovation. We loved the Dreame X50 Ultra Complete, with its tiny feet and retractable navigation puck, when we tested it. That model was designed to clean in places traditional bots can't reach, but for its newest bots, Dreame has turned its attention to a different challenge: mopping.

Most of the best robot vacuums on the market can mop as well as vacuum, but the mop functions don't tend to be all that good, even on pricey bots. With the Aqua10 Series, Dreame aims to change that.

Rather than a fixed mop pad – either the D-shaped style or dual spinning discs – the Dreame Aqua10 uses a roller mop. When the pad rolls back into the underside of the bot, a scraper removes any dirt. It's then sprayed with fresh water before it meets the next patch of floor. That means if it's going over a spillage or dirty area, the grime won't stay on the pad and end up spread further across the floor. The pad spins at 100RPM, and clean water is applied evenly via 12 spray nozzles.

"We realized it’s not only about how strong the mop is – it’s about how clean the mop stays," says Sean Chen, a Dreame Managing Director.

There are a handful of robot vacuums on the market that use a roller for mopping. Current examples include the Ecovacs Deebot X9 Pro Omni and the Eureka J20, the latter of which we tested out and were very impressed with.

However, with its Aqua10, Dreame has taken a few steps further, introducing three special features that the brand says are industry firsts. My personal favorite is the 'FluffRoll' roller fluffer. This spins around rapidly (1,000RPM!) in the opposite direction to the main mop roller, and ruffles up the fibers to make the pad softer and better at getting into grout lines and uneven tiles, and ultimately better for cleaning.

Dreame has also added a roller guard. This automatically closes over the roller when the bot approaches carpet or rugs, to prevent the damp roller from coming into contact with carpets.

Once the mopping is complete, the dock has the facilities for the roller to take a bath in its 'ThermoHub'. It'll soak in water of up to 100 °C to remove grease and grime.

(Image credit: Dreame)

The rest of the robot vacuum looks almost equally tech-packed, with an incredibly strong 30,000Pa of suction, and the same little threshold-hopping legs and retractable puck that we liked so much on the X50. Navigation and object avoidance come courtesy of AI powerhouse Nvidia, and there's Matter support for smart home integration.

The Dreame Aqua10 series is scheduled to go on sale starting Q4 2025 (so from October). Where and how much for is currently a mystery.

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• More than two in three Brits say AI doesn't understand emotional cues
• Only 3% would trust AI with sensitive tasks
• We still prefer to talk to human agents

New research has emerged suggesting that, while artificial intelligence does a great job of improving productivity in the workplace, it's not so good at adapting to regional differences.

ServiceNow found that the UK is the most AI-skeptical country within EMEA, with more than two-thirds (69%) stating that AI chatbots fail to understand emotional cues like tone and frustration.

Nearly as many (68%) noted that AI hasn't met expectations in the past five years, with only 55% believing AI will eventually detect emotions and bridge the human-machine gap.

AI doesn't understand how humans speak yet

The report uncovers how humans want to collaborate with AI rather than feel threatened by it, however so far it's proving not to be such a useful tool when it comes to personal issues. Only 3% would trust AI with emotionally sensitive tasks like closing a bank account after a death.

This preference for a more human-centric approach has resulted in what ServiceNow describes as double standards – although long hold times (59%) and information repetition (46%) are key pain points for customer service when speaking with human agents, many still prefer to speak with them over faster AI alternatives.

The difference is even bigger among older generations, with younger consumers more likely to believe that AI could evolve and plug that gap.

At the moment, AI's biggest value is in automating administrative tasks, like tracking packages and scheduling car services.

ServiceNow EMEA President Cathy Mauzaize explained: "Consumers are done with disconnected service. AI must evolve to anticipate needs and work with human agents, not replace them."

Looking ahead, the report calls for AI developers to factor in emotional awareness, focusing on human-machine collaboration.

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• Ubisoft has named the co-CEOs of its new subsidiary, Christophe Derennes and Charlie Guillemot, the son of the publisher's current CEO, Yves Guillemot
• The subsidiary's goal is to bring the Assassin's Creed, Far Cry, and Tom Clancy's Rainbow Six franchises "to their full potential"
• Charlie Guillemot has addressed the nepotism concerns, saying, "What matters now isn't my name, it's the work ahead"

Ubisoft has announced the co-CEOs of its new Tencent-funded subsidiary, Christophe Derennes and Charlie Guillemot, the son of the publisher's current CEO, Yves Guillemot.

The company named the co-CEOs in a new blog post, stating that the subsidiary's new structure will be dedicated to bringing some of the publisher's biggest franchises, such as Assassin's Creed, Far Cry, and Tom Clancy's Rainbow Six, "to their full potential."

"With complementary backgrounds, Christophe Derennes and Charlie Guillemot bring their strong industry expertise, deep knowledge of the Ubisoft ecosystem, and a shared culture of innovation to the role," Ubisoft said.

Derennes co-founded Ubisoft's Montreal studio in 1997 and most recently served as managing director for the North American region, while Guillemot began his career at Owlient in 2014, a studio acquired by Ubisoft, and later returned to Ubisoft in 2025 to join its transformation committee.

"With this new subsidiary, we want to build on that strong foundation by creating the right environment for the teams working on Assassin's Creed, Far Cry, and Rainbow Six to take the creative and technical risks needed to make excellent games," Guillemot said.

"Our focus is on evolving Ubisoft's operating model to bring more focus, more autonomy, and more accountability to the teams so they can stay closely attuned to our players. Decision making will be quicker, and it will also be easier to pivot when we need to change course."

Guillemot stressed that the idea isn't to start from scratch, but to "evolve our organization and ways of working to get back on the path to success".

(Image credit: Ubisoft)

Derennes echoed Guillemot's earlier sentiment, saying that it's their long-term objective with the subsidiary to "grow these iconic brands — while remaining loyal to their DNA — into experiences that are constantly enriching and surprising to our players."

In a separate interview with Variety following the announcement, Charlie Guillemot was asked to address the nepotism concerns now that he is a co-CEO of a subsidiary under his father's company.

"I completely understand where it comes from, and I want to be clear about it. Yes, I’m Yves’ son," he said. "That’s not something I hide from. But my appointment isn’t only about family ties; it’s about what Ubisoft needs at this moment."

He continued: "I've spent the last decade building experience both inside and outside Ubisoft, leading teams, managing brands, and navigating change in a fast-moving industry. I also made the conscious choice to step away when it made sense, to learn and grow elsewhere.

"What matters now isn't my name, it's the work ahead. Ubisoft is at a pivotal moment. What's expected of me is to help push the company forward by bringing energy, focus, and by relying on the incredible expertise that already exists across the teams. I see myself as someone here to contribute, support, and help create the right conditions are in place for everyone to do their best work."

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Fitbit users are experiencing problems. Many people are currently unable to sync their best Fitbit to the app, and those who uninstall the app are seemingly unable to get back in with their usual account details.

This is clearly a big problem, leading to Fitbit stating that it's "experiencing a major outage" on its status page. Users are effectively unable to make use of the app – an app Fitbit Premium users are paying for – leading to missed sleep and readiness scores, and failed data aggregation and interpretation.

An update: a solution is being rolled out, and Fitbit's status page is marking the issue "closed" at this time. However, some users are still unable to log into their app, suggesting the fix might be taking a while to roll out to everyone.

Are you still affected? Did you miss tracking an important workout or event, like a marathon or Hyrox? Email me at matt.evans@futurenet.com and I'll feature your responses on this liveblog.

(Image credit: Future)

Our first clue something was wrong came from a huge spike in Downdetector, which you can see above. At the time of writing, we're seeing over 2,000 reports of outages, with many more users turning to other sites like Reddit to voice their displeasure.

Reddit speaks outTrouble Logging In from r/fitbit

Hopping over to the Fitbit subreddit, we found the post above with a barrage of comments all saying the same thing: their Fitbit devices wouldn't sync to the app, and when they tried uninstalling and reinstalling the app, they could no longer log in again. Here are a few examples:

Comment from r/fitbitComment from r/fitbitFitbit's official status: "experiencing a major outage"

(Image credit: Future)

status.fitbit.com confirms the app and web API alike is experiencing a "major outage", with service disruption (not a complete blackout, however) across both channels.

However, it's interesting to note that Device Sync / Pairing is listed as "Available" with a green tick, which contrasts with the reports from users on Reddit in the previous post.

An email from a reader

A reader with the handle D.Z. emailed in to add their voice to our suspicions: "Neither my husband nor I have been able to sync our Fitbits this morning. We've tried on a phone and four different tablets."

It's interesting to note this is a problem occurring across devices: because it's affecting both mobile and web apps, something is going wrong with Fitbit on the back end.

Therefore, if you're reading this, switching devices and trying to log in on something else probably won't work: the problem is coming from your Fitbit account, not the device you're logging in on.

Is there something wrong with my Fitbit?

(Image credit: Andrea Gaini)

Probably not. Whether you've got an ancient Fitbit Alta, a cheap-and-cheerful Fitbit Inspire 3, or a top-of-the-line Google Pixel Watch 3, don't panic: your actual device is likely fine, even if it's not syncing to your app. There seems to be no need to restart or tinker with your Fitbit device itself, at least until Google comes out with an official fix.

The issue, as mentioned in previous posts, seems to be from the Fitbit app. You may lose some of today's data as a result of this syncing issue, but it's too early to understand the full ramifications of a big outage like this. However, it's a relief that your best fitness tracker is likely just fine.

We’re back! from r/fitbit

Are we back? One user just posted that they're able to log in once again with their regular details, with others chiming in that it's working.

However, other users are stating that they still can't access their app, so it's clear the fix is slowly being rolled out to the userbase.

That's reassuring news for Fitbit fans, but it's helpful to know how fast this fix is rolling out. If you're still being affected by the outage (or you missed recording an important event or workout), drop us an email at the address above.

Reader email: Some people are still affected

(Image credit: Fitbit)

One reader, emailed in to tell us that they're still not back in the app, despite the fix that's apparently rolling out.

"Yes, I'm affected. Can't sync, reinstalled app, now can't login."

This is despite the plunging Downdetector reports shown below, which seem to indicate the worst is behind us. Hang in there!

(Image credit: Future)Incident closed – for some...

(Image credit: Future)

Fitbit's official status page is now reporting the incident as "closed", indicating the fix is rolling out to users and the outage has ended, which lines up with those decreasing Downdetector reports.

However, according to our email inbox and the reports on Reddit, many people can't get back into their accounts still. For those people, we have to assume a fix is imminent – but let us know if the problem persists.

How to fix your Fitbit app

(Image credit: Fitbit)

Honestly? It seems as though the fix is "do nothing and try to log in later".

Fitbit is rolling out a fix, but it appears to be a slow process, with some users still left unable to log in. However, it is rolling out, so if you still can't sync your watch or fitness tracker, or you can't log into your app, don't worry – try an untracked workout for a change, and pick up where you left off once the fix has reached you. Who knows? You might enjoy the freeing lack of accountability that comes with taking off your fitness watch.

When a tool becomes a crutch

(Image credit: Fitbit)

Months ago, a similar outage hit the best Garmin watches, lasting over multiple days, and we experienced an outcry of frustration from Garmin users.

As a Garmin user myself, I remember how much I relied on my Garmin during both marathon training and during the events themselves, as tools such as the virtual pacer and heart rate zones kept me on track to hit (or at least narrowly miss) my race-day goals. The thought of having my running watch crash out on me on race day, after working towards that moment for months, simply didn't bear thinking about.

Fitbit users are suffering a similar issue today, and I can't help but feel for people who rely on that stream of information from their wrist during big life events and competitions, not just daily users looking for sleep and step counts. As a runner, I used that information as a tool during my training: it's only now I realised that tool became a crutch.

Let this be a reminder to take your training watch off every so often and practice working by feel: running coach, author and regular TechRadar contributor Lily Canter penned an excellent piece on why running without a smartwatch – referred to as "naked running" in the community – can be such a useful practice.

• The final trailer for FX's Alien: Earth has been released
• It'll premiere on Hulu and Disney+ in mid-August
• The sci-fi horror franchise's iconic Xenomorph won't be the show's most interesting monster

There's less than a month to go (at the time of publication) until Alien: Earth crash-lands on our screens. So, what better way is there to celebrate than the release of one final, terror-fuelled trailer?

With the sci-fi horror show set to launch on Hulu (US) and Disney+ (internationally) in mid-August, FX Networks has decided to release one more teaser to further whet our appetite for its release. And, if you thought the Alien franchise's iconic xenomorph would be the most frightening monster that'll show up, you'd better think again.

Sure, the fan-favorite biological weapon will appear in the Alien franchise's first-ever TV show. That much has been made clear ever since Alien: Earth's underwhelming first teaser dropped in September 2024.

It's the show's other skin-crawling creatures, though, that have piqued my interest since FX birthed another teaser for Alien: Earth in late April. Indeed, we caught glimpses of the other extraterrestrial beings that'll show up in the series in Alien: Earth's first proper trailer in June. Now, we have confirmation of not only how many we'll actually see, but the threat they'll pose to the human and android characters who populate the show.

Just going to *ahem* plant yourself there, are you? (Image credit: FX Networks)

"This ship collected specimens – five new lifeforms – from distant planets," Babou Ceesay's Morrow can he heard saying in the latest round of footage. "[They're] monsters."

You can say that again. From the carnivorous venus flytrap-like creature – D. Plumricarl – seen dangling from a ceiling (see the image above) to the eye-based lifeform – T. Ocellus – that's bonded to an unsuspecting sheep (see the image below), Sydney Chandler's Wendy, Morrow, and company won't want to mess around with these life-threatening species from other worlds.

It's baaaaaa-d news, I'm afraid... (Image credit: FX Networks)

For those of you who missed it first time around, here's the story brief for Alien: Earth, courtesy of FX: "In the year 2120, the Earth is governed by five corporations: Prodigy, Weyland-Yutani, Lynch, Dynamic, and Threshold.

"In this Corporate Era, cyborgs – humans with both biological and artificial parts – and synthetics – humanoid robots with artificial intelligence – exist alongside humans. But, the game is changed when the wunderkind Founder and CEO of Prodigy Corporation unlocks a new technological advancement: hybrids, humanoid robots infused with human consciousness."

"The first hybrid prototype named 'Wendy' (Chandler) marks a new dawn in the race for immortality. After Weyland-Yutani’s spaceship collides into Prodigy City, 'Wendy' and the other hybrids encounter mysterious life forms more terrifying than anyone could have ever imagined."

Joining Chandler and Ceesay on the show's cast roster are Timothy Olyphant, Alex Lawther, Samuel Blenkin, Essie Davis, Kit Young, David Rysdahl, Lily Newmark, and Sandra Yi Sencindiver, among others. You can read more about the show's extensive cast, plot details, and its future in our ultimate guide to Alien: Earth.

As we revealed in mid-May, Alien: Earth will be released on August 12. Well, in the US, plus other North American countries, and South America. In Europe, Africa, Asia, and Australia, it'll arrive on August 13.

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• ExpressVPN has added 38 new server locations in the US
• It now offers a total of 62 US server locations
• The expansion means greater flexibility and stability for users

ExpressVPN has announced a significant expansion of its US server network, allowing its users to connect to a server in any of the 50 US states.

One of the best VPNs available, ExpressVPN’s latest server expansion means it now has servers in 62 locations in the country.

An official announcement from ExpressVPN cites varying state laws regarding “data collection, content access, and identity checks” as a big reason for the expanded state-wide coverage.

ExpressVPN’s server expansion explained

To have a nationwide presence, ExpressVPN added 38 new server locations across the US, taking its total to 62 locations, up from 24. The popular VPN provider currently has servers in 105 countries in total.

Not many VPNs can claim to have servers in every US state, but ExpressVPN joins Private Internet Access, owned by the same parent company, Kape Technologies, which reached the milestone in 2022.

All of ExpressVPN’s servers are physical, with less than 5% of data moving through its network coming from virtual server locations. Any locations that are served virtually see their traffic, according to ExpressVPN, “routed through nearby physical servers” with IP addresses that match the chosen state.

Regardless of a server’s location, it benefits from ExpressVPN’s RAM-only TrustedServer technology. This sees servers wiped with every reboot, reducing the risk of any data being intercepted by malicious actors.

Why this matters

ExpressVPN’s US server expansion offers performance-related benefits. The fact that users can find an ExpressVPN server in any US state means there’s always one close by. When data doesn’t have to travel as far, a faster and more consistent connection is expected.

VPNs are commonly used to circumvent censorship and geo-blocking. “As state laws continue to influence what you can see and do online, your location plays a bigger role than ever,” wrote the provider in its official statement.

Some US states have recently implemented invasive age verification laws, potentially putting the privacy of internet users within these states at risk. This makes secure VPNs with a plentiful supply of locations to choose from, such as ExpressVPN, all the more important.

“ExpressVPN’s expanded U.S. network gives you more flexibility and choice, helping you maintain a more consistent online experience no matter where you are,” said ExpressVPN.

If you’re not already an ExpressVPN subscriber, you can try out its new US servers at no cost. All you need to do is take advantage of its 30-day money-back guarantee and, if you don’t want to be charged, cancel before the 30-day term is up.

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• Windows 10's July update broke part of the emoji picker
• This is a panel that lets you select from a huge library of emoji
• The search function is broken, making navigating that expanse more difficult

Windows 10's latest update (for July) has broken part of the emoji panel in the OS, Microsoft has confirmed.

If you're not familiar with the emoji picker, it's invoked by pressing the Windows key with the full stop (period) key, and it consists of a compact panel full of emojis that you can select from. These can then be directly inserted into your active app (such as Word, for example, if you want to add some emojis in a document you're working on).

The bug doesn't stop the picker from appearing - the problem is that the search function no longer works. After the latest update for Windows 10, whatever emoji you search for won't get any results - the operating system will return a 'we couldn't find this one' message (or similar error).

This means that there are no shortcuts to finding the emoji you want - you simply have to hunt through the (considerably hefty) contents of the panel.

Windows Latest noticed that Microsoft confirmed the bug on the Windows release health dashboard, stating that: "Following the installation of the July Windows security update (KB5062554), the Windows Emoji Panel search feature does not find any results in Windows 10, version 22H2."

The company says it's working on a fix that will be deployed in a future Windows 10 update. Mind you, there aren't many of those left before updates will come grinding to a halt (except for those who opt for the extension program, which was recently improved by Microsoft thanks to the addition of a non-paying option).

Windows 10's End of Life will be in October 2025, in case you missed this.

Analysis: face with rolling eyes

(Image credit: Microsoft)

A surprising number of people are complaining about this broken functionality. I say surprising because it's not a feature I've ever used, but clearly, there are a good deal of Windows 10 users who still rely on the emoji picker, and losing the search capability is a big downer, I can see that.

Those airing their frustrations about the bug on Reddit previously confirmed that removing the July update cured the problem, and now, of course, Microsoft has admitted the issue itself.

What puzzles me here is that, as noted, Windows 10 only has a few months of shelf life left. And so, at this stage of the game, with the retirement of the OS beckoning, why is Microsoft pulling at any threads at all within the system that might cause something to unravel in this way? I don't know, and yes, I don't develop an operating system; it's a hugely complex undertaking full of headaches, and I should probably shut up, as there are doubtless reasons.

Still, it does seem rather odd, doesn't it? Windows 10 is done, no features are being added, and yet somehow, bugs are still creeping into the works in recent times - and odd glitches, too (what would cause emoji search to suddenly go down in flames, I can't begin to imagine).

Doubtless, we have time left for one last hurrah in a future update to bring in another bug (or maybe a couple, even, you never know your luck).

If you listen to the operating system conspiracy theorists (yes, they exist), this is Microsoft engaging in a clever plot to annoy you into finally making the upgrade to Windows 11. Although if that was the elaborate plan, the software giant would perhaps have sabotaged a more important facet of the Windows 10 interface (like the Start menu, ahem).

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• Gladney Centre for Adoption's CRM was generating plenty of sensitive data
• That data was being stored in an unencrypted, non-password-protected database
• The database contained names, addresses, and more

Gladney Centre for Adoption, a non-profit adoption agency, was leaking sensitive information about children, parents, employees, and other people by keeping an unprotected database.

Earlier this week, Jeremiah Fowler, a security researcher known for hunting for non-password-protected, unencrypted databases, found one that was 2.49 GB in size, and which contained more than 1.1 million records.

The records included names of children, birth parents, adopted parents, employees, and leads. Besides the names, there were also phone numbers, postal addresses, information about “birth fathers”, and data on whether people were approved, or denied, becoming an adoptive parent.

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Abusing the info for phishing

The information is highly sensitive, and as such - very valuable to cybercriminals. Crooks can use it to create custom-built, convincing phishing emails, through which they can deploy malware, steal banking information, or other login credentials, resulting in identity theft, wire fraud, and possibly ransomware.

For example, a cybercriminal might find a person that was previously denied becoming a foster parent, and send them an email notifying them of a change in their status. However, to finalize the process, they would need to pay a fee within a 24-hour window. This is just a theoretical example of how crooks could abuse Gladney’s data.

The good news is, there is no evidence anyone discovered the archive before Fowler did. As soon as the database was found, the researcher reached out to Gladney, who locked it down almost immediately. We don’t know for how long it remained active, and to be certain the files weren’t stolen - there would need to be a detailed forensic analysis.

We also don’t know if Gladney was the one maintaining this database, or if that was the work of a third party. We do know that it was generated by a Customer Relationship Management (CRM) system.

Via Website Planet

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AI is no longer just a buzzword. The manufacturing industry has reached a stage where both the technology and the mindset exist to embrace real, practical applications of AI and create tangible value on the factory floor.

For many manufacturers, that journey doesn’t require starting from scratch. In fact, it can start with the data humming quietly inside the ERP software you already trust every day.

By turning that wealth of real-time production, inventory, and supplier data into fast, predictive insight, manufacturers can cut waste, dodge disruptions, and outpace competitors – all without ripping out existing systems.

In other words, the path to an AI-powered factory floor begins not with wholesale reinvention, but with smarter use of what’s already at your fingertips.

With that in mind, here are five practical ways manufacturers can start unlocking that value, without needing to reinvent the wheel.

1. Tap into real-time data for faster, smarter decisions

ERP systems hold a wealth of real-time operational data. AI can analyze this information quickly, helping manufacturers optimize daily processes like procurement, inventory planning, and customer service.

To make the most of this data, manufacturers don’t need to start from scratch. With AI tools like dashboards, real-time alerts, and insights built right into existing systems, it’s easier to spot trends, track performance, and act on changes as they happen. Instead of digging through reports or jumping between platforms, teams get the information they need right when they need it, helping them make smarter, faster decisions with more confidence.

For example, with embedded tools in place, AI can forecast demand patterns and suggest order schedules, helping avoid stockouts or excess inventory that ties up cash. It can also consolidate customer data across touchpoints, providing clearer insights into behavior and preferences, supporting better service and more targeted communications.

When used well, AI turns existing data into a powerful decision-making engine.

2. Make small tech enhancements that deliver big gains

Rather than undertaking a full system overhaul to benefit from AI, many manufacturers have turned to optimization and focusing on enhancing the tools they already have in place, through the form of “micro innovations.”

By making small, targeted upgrades to existing systems, manufacturers can deliver measurable improvements in efficiency and performance without disrupting day-to-day operations. On the factory floor, we’re seeing smart tech guide workers through complex tasks, improve workforce scheduling, and streamline everything from planning and forecasting to last-mile delivery.

These “micro-innovations” are easier to roll out and less risky than large-scale digital transformation, making them a practical choice in today’s cautious investment climate. And by improving what’s already in place, manufacturers can unlock more value with minimal disruption and less cost.

3. Free up teams by automating manual tasks

AI’s real strength lies in removing the repetitive jobs that eat up time and limit productivity. From processing supplier quotes to managing documents, many of these tasks can now be handled by AI tools, freeing up staff to focus on higher-value work.

For example, instead of manually sorting through customer records or tracking down compliance paperwork, AI can surface the right information instantly. This not only saves time but reduces the risk of errors. It also improves employee experience, as teams spend less time on admin and more time doing work that adds real value.

Manufacturers can take advantage of these efficiencies by applying AI to the systems they already use every day. Rather than building something new, it’s about enhancing what’s already in place. That way, IT automation becomes a practical, accessible step in the broader AI journey, not a major leap.

4. Focus on clear, practical use cases

The most effective AI projects start with a clear problem to solve. Whether it’s improving customer service, reducing waste, or managing risk in the supply chain, the best results come from targeted, purpose-driven use cases.

Manufacturers can start by looking at the everyday problems that slow things down, like repetitive tasks, frequent errors, or processes that take too long or cost too much. Once those pain points are clear, it’s easier to work backwards and see where AI could help. It’s also worth speaking to the people on the ground — they usually know exactly where things get stuck and where small improvements could make a big difference.

For instance, one practical use case is demand forecasting — analysing historical trends, seasonal shifts, and supplier timelines to ensure the right stock is in the right place at the right time. Another is improving visibility by merging data across departments to build a clearer, shared picture of operations.

Starting small and staying focused is the best way for manufacturers to prove value quickly and build momentum for wider AI adoption.

5. Build confidence with governance and control

AI is a powerful tool, but it must be implemented responsibly. Manufacturers operate in complex, often highly regulated environments, and any AI system must align with strict data access, compliance, and security standards.

That means AI tools should respect user permissions and keep data contained within trusted environments. Just as importantly, outputs need to be monitored and validated, ensuring humans stay in the loop, particularly when decisions carry operational or financial risk.

Strong governance builds trust. And when teams trust the technology, they’re more likely to use it — and use it well.

The future starts with what you already have

Many manufacturers already have what they need to start unlocking the benefits of AI — a lot of the tools, data, and systems are often already in place. The key is taking that first step.

By focusing on small, high-impact opportunities and making better use of the data already at their fingertips, AI becomes less of a leap and more of a natural next move.

You don’t need a big bang strategy. Just the right tools, clear priorities, and a willingness to start.

We list the best business plan software.

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

Marvel Rivals Summer swimsuit skins are here, adding in beach-ready outfits for a selection of Heroes – and yes, that includes The Thing in a Speedo. There's a whole bunch to unlock for free, as well as a Premium upgrade that gives you access to more rewards.

I've now played hundreds of hours of Marvel Rivals since launch, and have been impressed by just how frequently it manages to completely overhaul the Competitive Mode meta. Every month or so, a new Hero is added, bringing in new ways to take down enemies and providing even more possible Team Up combinations. It's speedy updates like these that have landed Marvel Rivals firmly on my list of the best PC games to play in 2025.

Now that the Summer skins have arrived in Marvel Rivals, I'll lead you through the new swimsuit outfits on offer. Some are locked to store purchases, while others, like Luna Snow's new Cool Summer skin, can be earned via a new mini Battle Pass. Here's what you need to know.

Marvel Rivals Summer skins list

(Image credit: NetEase)

Marvel Rivals Summer skins are now in the game. You can check out the list below to see what's been added before I go into some more detail on each of the new skins.

• Psylocke - Breezy Butterfly (Store on July 17 at 10PM ET/July 17 at 7PM PT / July 18 at 3AM BST)
• Loki - Robe of Relaxation (Store on July 17 at 10PM ET/July 17 at 7PM PT / July 18 at 3AM BST)
• Thor - Worthy Waves (free Battle Pass reward)
• Luna Snow - Cool Summer (premium Battle Pass reward)
• The Thing - Sunshine Thing (premium Battle Pass reward)

As you can see, some of the Summer skins need to be purchased from the Store, while others are part of the new mini-Battle Pass. In the Battle Pass, there are free rewards as well as an optional premium rewards track. Thor's Summer skin is a free reward, while Luna Snow and The Thing can only be earned by purchasing the premium pass.

Marvel Rivals Psylocke Summer skin

(Image credit: NetEase)

Psylocke's Summer skin is called Breezy Butterfly. There are two additional color swap variations: Moonlit Mirage and Violet Veil. At present, these can only be purchased from the store as part of the Breezy Butterfly Bundle. You will then need Unstable Molecules to unlock the alternate colors. Available in the store on July 17 at 10PM ET/July 17 at 7PM PT / July 18 at 3AM BST.

Marvel Rivals Thor Summer skin

(Image credit: NetEase)

Next up is Thor, who gets the new Thor - Worthy Waves skin. This one has a single color variant: Thor - Worthy Waves (Azure Skies), which must be purchased with Unstable Molecules. The skin itself is available as part of the free rewards track in the new event pass.

Marvel Rivals Luna Snow Summer skin

(Image credit: NetEase)

Luna Snow - Cool Summer is a premium reward in the new event pass. You'll need to upgrade the standard pass to be able to earn it. There are two color variants: Radiant Radiance and Prismatic Pulse. As with other color swaps, you'll need Unstable Molecules. Some can be earned via the main Battle Pass, and some in the premium event pass.

Marvel Rivals The Thing Summer skin

(Image credit: NetEase)

Well, Marvel Rivals players, I hope you're happy. The Thing gets his Speedo on in the The Sunshine Thing skin, which can be earned via the premium event pass. This one doesn't have color variants, which is probably fair given just how little actual clothing is on show here.

Marvel Rivals Loki Summer skin

(Image credit: NetEase)

Finally, there's the Loki - Robe of Relaxation skin, which sees the God of Mischief donning a rather fetching summer hat. This one has the Tidal Trickery color variant. You'll be able to pick these up in Store on July 17 at 10PM ET/July 17 at 7PM PT / July 18 at 3AM BST.

Marvel Rivals Summer Special event rewards

(Image credit: NetEase)

Now, let's take a look at the full list of rewards available in the Summer Special event mini-pass. I've indicated which rewards are free and which ones require the premium upgrade to earn.

• Page One: Sunshine Thing skin(premium), Loki Mood Bundle, Sunshine Thing Spray, Sunshine Thing Nameplate, 200 x Unstable Molecules, It's Readin' Time Emote, Psylocke Emoji Bundle (premium)
• Page Two: Worthy Waves Spray, Worthy Waves Nameplate, Throg Emote, Thor - Emoji Bundle (premium), 200 x Unstable Molecules, Maritime Mischief MVP, Worthy Waves skin
• Page Three: Cool Summer Spray, Cool Summer nameplate (premium), Frosty Fortress Emote, Luna Snow Mood Bundle (premium), Summer Spectacular Gallery Card, Frozen Flow MVP(premium), Cool Summer skin (premium)

These rewards can now be earned in-game and will leave on August 15, 2025. Upgrade to the premium track to keep the event pass for good, giving you more time to earn rewards.

You Might Also Like...

• Here's when to expect the next season of Marvel Rivals
• Marvel Rivals Crosshairs explained
• Marvel Rivals Mutant list: here's all of the playable Mutant Heroes

Looking for a different day?

A new NYT Strands 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 Thursday's puzzle instead then click here: NYT Strands hints and answers for Thursday, July 17 (game #501).

Strands is the NYT's latest word game after the likes of Wordle, Spelling Bee and Connections – and it's great fun. It can be difficult, though, so read on for my Strands hints.

Want more word-based fun? Then check out my NYT Connections today and Quordle today pages for hints and answers for those games, and Marc's Wordle today page for the original viral word game.

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

NYT Strands today (game #502) - hint #1 - today's themeWhat is the theme of today's NYT Strands?

• Today's NYT Strands theme is… Abracadabra!

NYT Strands today (game #502) - hint #2 - clue words

Play any of these words to unlock the in-game hints system.

• SORE
• VILE
• SPITE
• SAILED
• SLIP
• CAMP

NYT Strands today (game #502) - hint #3 - spangram lettersHow many letters are in today's spangram?

• Spangram has 8 letters

NYT Strands today (game #502) - hint #4 - spangram positionWhat are two sides of the board that today's spangram touches?

First side: left, 4th row

Last side: right, 1st row

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

NYT Strands today (game #502) - the answers

(Image credit: New York Times)

The answers to today's Strands, game #502, are…

• ESCAPE
• LEVITATE
• MULTIPLY
• DISAPPEAR
• TRANSFORM
• SPANGRAM: ITS MAGIC

• My rating: Hard
• My score: 2 hints

I found today’s search incredibly hard. And that’s despite the fact that the very first word I saw on the board was magic (it took me a little bit longer to spot ITS MAGIC).

Ever since Penn & Teller and more recently David Blaine, magic has changed from sheer wonder to curiosity over how a trick is done – we are far less likely to accept that some supernatural power is at play than previous generations, or to accept the mystery.

Because of this I struggled to think of any words that could be connected to magic. And then when I did take a hint and the letters were highlighted I struggled to find words within the twists and turns. Had Strands made them DISAPPEAR somehow? 

Yesterday's NYT Strands answers (Thursday, July 17, game #501)

• BOXES
• MEZZANINE
• LOBBY
• BALCONY
• WINGS
• ORCHESTRA
• SPANGRAM: THEATERS

What is NYT Strands?

Strands is the NYT's not-so-new-any-more word game, following Wordle and Connections. It's now a fully fledged member of the NYT's games stable that has been running for a year and which can be played on the NYT Games site on desktop or mobile.

I've got a full guide to how to play NYT Strands, complete with tips for solving it, so check that out if you're struggling to beat it each day.

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 Thursday's puzzle instead then click here: NYT Connections hints and answers for Thursday, July 17 (game #767).

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 #768) - today's words

(Image credit: New York Times)

Today's NYT Connections words are…

• SEE
• SPOT
• RUN
• CATCH
• COBRA
• SLIDE
• GUITAR
• STRING
• BLANKET
• BRIDGE
• EEL
• COW
• STREAK
• NOTE
• WHEEL
• SERIES

NYT Connections today (game #768) - hint #1 - group hints

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

• YELLOW: Order
• GREEN: I spy
• BLUE: Stretch
• PURPLE: Precede with an energetic word

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 #768) - hint #2 - group answers

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

• YELLOW: SEQUENCE 
• GREEN: PICK UP ON 
• BLUE: YOGA BACKBENDS
• PURPLE: ELECTRIC -___

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

NYT Connections today (game #768) - the answers

(Image credit: New York Times)

The answers to today's Connections, game #768, are…

• YELLOW: SEQUENCE RUN, SERIES, STREAK, STRING
• GREEN: PICK UP ON CATCH, NOTE, SEE, SPOT
• BLUE: YOGA BACKBENDS BRIDGE, COBRA, COW, WHEEL
• PURPLE: ELECTRIC -___ BLANKET, EEL, GUITAR, SLIDE

• My rating: Hard
• My score: 1 mistake

I was going great guns today until I hit a brick wall with eight words remaining.

I attend a very basic form of yoga – basically it’s for people incapable of doing real yoga – and the teacher will occasionally mention things like the warrior or BRIDGE, but I think the COBRA, COW and WHEEL must be for the more advanced stretchers. I’m still annoyed I didn’t spot the connection, though.

Instead, thinking that SLIDE and GUITAR were connected I somehow fudged a group together with EEL and BRIDGE and after getting one away got the purple group correct without knowing what the connection was. I had to google electric slide to find out it’s a line dance.

Yesterday's NYT Connections answers (Thursday, July 17 game #767)

• YELLOW: MEDDLE NOSE AROUND, POKE, PRY, SNOOP
• GREEN: WORDS AFTER "NO" TO MEAN "IT'S ALL GOOD" BIGGIE, HARD FEELINGS, SWEAT, WORRIES
• BLUE: SUPER__ GLUE, MARIO WORLD, PAC, POWER
• PURPLE: ENDING WITH FISH CAMISOLE, CAPE COD, DRUM AND BASS, WU-TANG

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.

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 Thursday's puzzle instead then click here: Quordle hints and answers for Thursday, July 17 (game #1270).

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 #1271) - hint #1 - VowelsHow many different vowels are in Quordle today?

• The number of different vowels in Quordle today is 5*.

* 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 #1271) - hint #2 - repeated lettersDo any of today's Quordle answers contain repeated letters?

• The number of Quordle answers containing a repeated letter today is 2.

Quordle today (game #1271) - hint #3 - uncommon lettersDo 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 #1271) - 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 #1271) - hint #5 - starting letters (2)What letters do today's Quordle answers start with?

• C

• F

• F

• T

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

Quordle today (game #1271) - the answers

(Image credit: Merriam-Webster)

The answers to today's Quordle, game #1271, are…

• CINCH
• FOYER
• FUDGE
• TAFFY

I feel as if Quordle is playing mind games with me. Yesterday, I had a choice between power and FOYER for one of my words and I picked power, today it was exactly the same but I picked foyer.

This moment of slightly askew deja-vu was followed by two chewy food substances that are bad for your teeth TAFFY and FUDGE. Both items that I will now be craving until tomorrow’s game.

Daily Sequence today (game #1271) - the answers

(Image credit: Merriam-Webster)

The answers to today's Quordle Daily Sequence, game #1271, are…

• CLEAN
• SASSY
• HOLLY
• EMBER

Quordle answers: The past 20

• Quordle #1270, Thursday, 17 July: CRESS, TABOO, POWER, HATER
• Quordle #1269, Wednesday, 16 July: UNCLE, NADIR, REMIT, BROOM
• Quordle #1268, Tuesday, 15 July: VILLA, FLECK, TIGER, CRANE
• Quordle #1267, Monday, 14 July: SURGE, PIZZA, PAPER, POPPY
• Quordle #1266, Sunday, 13 July: KAYAK, DECRY, RUDDY, HATER
• Quordle #1265, Saturday, 12 July: WREAK, NANNY, CLASP, STAIN
• Quordle #1264, Friday, 11 July: LAPEL, DRAIN, FROND, GROSS
• Quordle #1263, Thursday, 10 July: CROSS, WHEEL, UNDID, PENCE
• Quordle #1262, Wednesday, 9 July: SHIRE, SIXTH, SINGE, IMAGE
• Quordle #1261, Tuesday, 8 July: PLIED, PRANK, GAWKY, OXIDE
• Quordle #1260, Monday, 7 July: DROLL, TRUCE, TWIRL, SINCE
• Quordle #1259, Sunday, 6 July: AMPLY, SPAWN, EXTOL, RIDGE
• Quordle #1258, Saturday, 5 July: HAVEN, SNAKE, DREAM, TORUS
• Quordle #1257, Friday, 4 July: FAVOR, SKUNK, GAWKY, FLUFF
• Quordle #1256, Thursday, 3 July: DANCE, EYING, GLAZE, EGRET
• Quordle #1255, Wednesday, 2 July: INANE, SCOUR, ELITE, ULCER
• Quordle #1254, Tuesday, 1 July: REBAR, YEARN, FORTH, CROWD
• Quordle #1253, Monday, 30 June: INGOT, INFER, TAPIR, CLUED
• Quordle #1252, Sunday, 29 June: MIRTH, APTLY, SCRUB, SMACK