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As of 2024, macOS powers over 100 million active devices worldwide, making it a popular choice for both personal and professional use. However, despite its user-friendly interface, Mac users still find themselves scratching their heads when it comes to connecting a printer. The process can seem like a hassle, especially with the variety of printer brands and connection methods available.

But fear not! Whether you're setting up a home office or trying to print that important document at work, this comprehensive guide will demystify the process of adding a printer to your Mac. I'll explore various methods, from simple USB connections to wireless setups, and even tackle some common troubleshooting issues.

By the end of this article, you'll be equipped with all the knowledge you need to start printing from your Mac with confidence. So, let's dive in and unlock the full potential of your Mac's printing capabilities!

We’ve also listed the best printers for Mac.

Adding a wired printer to your Mac

For many users, a wired USB printer is still the go-to choice for its simplicity and reliability. The good news is that macOS makes it incredibly easy to set up these printers. In most cases, it's as simple as plug-and-play, but let's walk through the process to ensure you don't miss any important steps.

Here's how to add a USB printer to your Mac:

1. Make sure your printer software is up to date. Check with your printer's manufacturer to see if any updates are available for your printer model.
2. Prepare your printer. Use the instructions that came with your printer to unpack it, install ink or toner, and add paper. Turn on the printer and make sure it's not displaying any errors.
3. Connect your printer to your Mac using a USB cable. If you see a message prompting you to download new software, make sure to download and install it.
4. Your Mac should automatically detect the new printer and add it to your list of available printers. To confirm, open System Settings (or System Preferences on older macOS versions) and click on "Printers & Scanners."
5. You should see your new printer listed on the left side of the window. If you don't, click the "+" button at the bottom of the list to add it manually.
6. Select your printer from the list that appears and click "Add."
7. Your printer is now ready to use! You can select it from the "Printer" menu when you're ready to print a document.

In my experience, this process usually goes smoothly, but if you encounter any issues, don't worry. We'll cover some troubleshooting tips later in this article.

Adding a wireless printer to your Mac

Wireless printing offers the convenience of printing from anywhere in your home or office without the need for cables. Most modern printers come with Wi-Fi capabilities, and many are compatible with Apple's AirPrint technology, making the setup process a breeze.

Here's how to add a wireless printer to your Mac:

1. Ensure your printer is connected to the same Wi-Fi network as your Mac. Consult your printer's manual for instructions on connecting it to Wi-Fi if you haven't already done so.
2. On your Mac, click on the Apple menu and select "System Settings" (or "System Preferences" on older macOS versions).
3. Click on "Printers & Scanners" in the sidebar.
4. Click the "+" button at the bottom of the printer list on the left side of the window.
5. A new window will appear showing a list of available printers on your network. Select your printer from this list.
6. If your printer supports AirPrint, macOS will automatically use AirPrint to connect to the printer. If not, your Mac will download and install the appropriate driver software.
7. Click "Add" to finish adding the printer.

If your printer doesn't appear in the list, you may need to add it manually using its IP address. To do this, click on the "IP" icon in the Add Printer window, enter your printer's IP address, and follow the prompts to add it.

I've found that wireless printing can be a real game-changer, especially in a busy household or office. Being able to print from my Mac without having to physically connect to the printer has saved me countless trips across the room!

Troubleshooting printer connection issues

Even with macOS's user-friendly interface, you might encounter some hiccups when trying to add a printer. Don't worry, though – most issues have simple solutions. Here are some common problems and how to solve them:

1. Printer not showing up in the list:

• Make sure your printer is turned on and connected to the same network as your Mac.
• Try restarting both your printer and your Mac.
• Check if your printer's software is up to date.

2. Error messages when trying to add the printer:

• Double-check that you've selected the correct printer model if adding manually.
• Ensure you have the latest version of macOS installed.
• Try resetting the printing system (but be aware this will remove all your printers and scan queues).

3. Printer added but not printing:

• Check the printer queue by clicking on the printer in System Settings > Printers & Scanners and selecting "Open Print Queue."
• Make sure the printer isn't paused or offline.
• Try printing from another application to see if the issue is app-specific.

Remember, if you're still having trouble, it's always a good idea to check the printer manufacturer's website for specific troubleshooting guides or to contact their support team.

Productivity tips for using a printer on your Mac

Now that you've successfully added your printer, let's explore some tips to help you get the most out of your Mac printing experience. These tricks can save you time and make your printing tasks more efficient.

Here are some of my favorite productivity hacks:

1. Create a printer pool: If you have multiple printers, you can create a printer pool. This allows you to send a print job to the pool, and it will be printed on the first available printer. To set this up, select multiple printers in System Settings > Printers & Scanners, then click "Create Printer Pool."
2. Print from the Dock: You can add a printer icon to your Dock for quick access. Just drag the printer from the Printers & Scanners list to your Dock. Now you can print files by dragging them onto the printer icon in the Dock.
3. Use keyboard shortcuts: Command + P opens the print dialog in most applications. You can also use Command + Shift + 3 to capture and save a screenshot of your entire screen, which you can then print.
4. Set up default print settings: To save time, set up your preferred print settings (like double-sided printing or black and white) as the default for each printer you use regularly.
5. Use the Preview app for quick prints: The Preview app is great for quick prints of images and PDFs. You can even make basic edits before printing.

These tips have significantly streamlined my printing workflow on my Mac. Experiment with them and see which ones work best for you. Remember, the key to productivity is finding the methods that suit your specific needs and work style.

We've featured the best inkjet printers.

Being able to print documents, photos, and web pages without being tethered to a cable has become more important than ever. But with so many different printer brands and models on the market, figuring out the process for your exact printer model can sometimes feel like a daunting task.

Today, I'll unpack the various methods available for connecting your printer to WiFi, covering everything from WPS technology to manufacturer-specific apps and even solutions for printers without wireless capabilities. By the end of this article, you'll be equipped with all the knowledge you need to start printing wirelessly with confidence.

We’ve also covered the best home printers.

Option 1: Using WPS (WiFi Protected Setup)

WPS is a network security standard that makes it easy to connect WiFi-enabled devices to a router without entering long passwords. It's the simplest and most straightforward method for connecting your printer to WiFi, provided both your printer and router support this feature.

To use WPS, you'll need a printer and a router that both support WPS. Most modern wireless printers and routers from major manufacturers support WPS, but it's always a good idea to check your devices' specifications or contact the manufacturer to confirm compatibility.

Here's how to connect using WPS:

1. Make sure your printer is turned on and within range of your WiFi router.
2. Locate the WPS button on your router. It's usually labeled with the WPS logo or the letters "WPS".
3. Press and hold the WPS button on your router for a few seconds until the WPS light starts flashing.
4. Within two minutes, press the WPS button on your printer. On some printers, you may need to navigate to the WiFi settings in the printer's menu and select the WPS option.
5. Wait for the connection to be established. This usually takes less than a minute.
6. Once connected, your printer's WiFi light should stop blinking and remain solid.
7. Print a network configuration page from your printer to confirm the connection and note the IP address assigned to your printer.

In my opinion, WPS has been a game-changer for setting up wireless printers. I've used it countless times to quickly connect printers without having to fumble with long passwords or complex network settings. The convenience of being able to set up a printer with just a few button presses has saved me time and hassle on numerous occasions.

Option 2: Using manufacturer-specific apps

While WPS is a fantastic option for many users, it's not the only way to connect your printer to WiFi. If your printer doesn't support WPS, or if you want access to additional features and settings, using a manufacturer-specific app might be the way to go. Most major printer manufacturers offer their own apps that allow you to connect your printer to WiFi, even if your printer doesn't support WPS.

HP printers

HP offers the HP Smart app for both computers and mobile devices, which provides a comprehensive solution for HP printers. Here's how to use it:

1. Download and install the HP Smart app from HP's website or your device's app store.
2. Make sure your HP printer is turned on and in range of your WiFi network.
3. Open the HP Smart app and click on the plus sign (+) to add a new printer.
4. The app should automatically detect your printer if it's on the same network. If not, you may need to temporarily connect your printer to your computer with a USB cable.
5. Follow the on-screen instructions to connect your printer to your WiFi network. You'll need to enter your network name and password.

The HP Smart app offers some advantages over WPS, such as the ability to troubleshoot connection issues and access HP-specific features like ink level monitoring and easy reordering of supplies.

Xerox printers

Xerox provides several methods for connecting their printers to WiFi, including through the printer's control panel and the Embedded Web Server. Here's how to use the control panel method:

1. On your Xerox printer's control panel, navigate to the "Settings" menu.
2. Select "Network/Ports", then "Wireless".
3. Choose "Setup On Printer Panel", then "Choose Network".
4. Select your WiFi network from the list and enter the password when prompted.
5. Once connected, print a configuration page to confirm the connection and note your printer's IP address.

Xerox's method offers the advantage of not requiring any additional software, making it a quick and easy solution for those comfortable navigating printer menus.

Brother printers

Brother offers several methods for connecting their printers to WiFi, including Wireless Direct and Infrastructure Mode. Here's how to use the Infrastructure Mode method:

1. On your Brother printer's control panel, press the Menu button.
2. Use the arrow keys to select "Network", then press OK.
3. Select "WLAN", then "Setup Wizard".
4. The printer will search for available networks. Select your network and enter the password when prompted.
5. Once connected, the printer will print a WLAN report. Check this report to confirm the connection and note your printer's IP address.

Brother's method is straightforward and doesn't require additional software, making it a good option for those who prefer to set up their printer directly from the device.

Canon printers

Canon provides the Canon PRINT Inkjet/SELPHY app for connecting their printers to WiFi. Here's how to use it:

1. Download and install the Canon PRINT app from Canon's website or your device's app store.
2. Make sure your Canon printer is turned on and in range of your WiFi network.
3. Open the Canon PRINT app and tap the printer icon at the top of the screen.
4. Tap "Register Printer", then "Setup".
5. Follow the on-screen instructions to connect your printer to your WiFi network. You'll need to enter your network name and password.

The Canon PRINT app offers additional features like scanning documents using your printer's scanner and checking ink levels, making it a versatile tool for Canon printer owners.

Why use manufacturer-specific apps?

Using manufacturer-specific apps can be particularly useful if you have an older printer that doesn't support WPS, or if you want access to additional features that aren't available through standard WiFi setup methods. These apps often provide a more tailored experience for your specific printer model and can offer functionality beyond just connecting to WiFi, such as troubleshooting, supply ordering, and printer maintenance.

In my own printing setup at home, I've found that using the manufacturer's app gives me more control over my printer's settings and allows me to easily monitor things like ink levels and print quality. It's also been helpful for tasks like scanning documents directly to my phone, which isn't possible with a basic WiFi connection alone.

However, it's worth noting that these apps may require you to create an account with the printer manufacturer, and they may collect data about your printing habits. If privacy is a concern, you might prefer to stick with WPS or manual setup methods when possible.

What to do after connecting your printer to WiFi?

Connecting your printer to WiFi is just the first step in unleashing the full potential of wireless printing. Whether you've used WPS, a manufacturer-specific app, or another method, you should now have a printer that's ready to receive print jobs from any device on your network.

Here's what you might want to do next:

• Install printer drivers on your computers: Even with a WiFi connection, you'll need to install the appropriate drivers on each computer you want to print from.
• Set up mobile printing: Configure apps like AirPrint for iOS devices or Mopria Print Service for Android to print directly from your mobile devices.
• Test your connection: Try printing a test page from different devices to ensure everything is working correctly.
• Explore additional features: Many wireless printers offer more features like scanning to email or cloud storage — take some time to explore these options.

Wireless printing offers a level of convenience and flexibility that's hard to beat. While the setup process might seem daunting at first, the benefits of being able to print from any device, anywhere in your home or office, make it well worth the effort. And with the methods we've covered in this guide, you should be able to get your printer connected to WiFi with minimal fuss.

We've featured the best all-in-one printer.

The best VPN apps continue to disappear from the Apple App Store in Russia upon government request.

Earlier today, October 31, 2024, it was the time for Amenzia VPN, a popular free VPN service developed by Russian digital rights advocacy group Roskomsvoboda.

The provider shared the bad news on its Telegram channel in the early hours of the day. The team also confirmed to TechRadar that tests conducted by the AppleCensorship project could show how the app became unavailable only four hours – or even less than that – after developers received notifications from Apple about the Russian censor body's order (see the image below).

(Image credit: Amnezia VPN)

"This is another confirmation of how lightning-fast Apple is in fulfilling censors' demands," an Amnezia VPN spokesperson told me. "For companies whose apps are removed, there is no time or opportunity to challenge the requests of the Russian authorities."

The Big Tech giant has already removed over 60 VPN apps since July this year. A total of almost 100 services are currently unavailable for download in the official App Store in Russia.

As mentioned earlier, experts at Roskomsvoboda developed Amnezia VPN precisely to give people living under strict internet censorship a means to access the open web. The team claims, in fact, that Amenzia VPN is one of the most stable and effective VPNs working in Russia, Iran, and other countries where VPN protocols are monitored and blocked by authorities.

In September 2024, a large coalition of human rights organizations, media, and VPN providers wrote an open letter calling Apple to "immediately restore" VPN apps to its Russian App Store. According to experts, that letter remains unanswered.

"Apple continues to ignore civil society’s demands to do the right thing and uphold human rights in Russia by reinstating VPNs they have blocked at the request of Roskomnadzor, the country’s censorship agency," said Anastasiya Zhyrmont, Eastern Europe & Central Asia Policy Manager at Access Now, while describing the removal of Amenzia VPN "a huge blow to fundamental freedoms."

How to download a Russia VPN

Whether you live in Russia or are visiting anytime soon, you certainly need a VPN to keep accessing the open web. Both Freedom House and Reporters Without Borders (RSF) classify Russia as one of the worst countries for internet freedom due to its high levels of online censorship.

A VPN, short for virtual private network, spoofs your real IP address location to help you bypass geo-restrictions on online content while encrypting all your internet connections to boost your privacy when browsing.

(Image credit: Shutterstock)

If you're struggling to download a Russia VPN app, below are some quick tips Zhyrmont from Access Now shared with us:

• Download as many VPN apps still available as possible. This will allow you to hop from one to another in case some services will stop working. I suggest looking at our free VPN guide to get the most secure services out there without paying for them all.
• Download independent media apps with embedded circumvention technologies. While many websites for independent publications are restricted in Russia, newsrooms developed censorship-resistant applications so that readers can access their content without the need to download a VPN. The Meduza app is one worth checking out.
• Try to switch your Apple ID from ru-zone. Doing this may be a bit challenging, though, especially if you have active subscriptions on the Apple App Store.

All in all, experts feel that Apple should be a vendor to avoid in the first place for people in Russia who want to keep enjoying their digital freedoms.

Commenting on this point, Stanislav Shakirov, CTO at Roskomsvoboda told me: "[Apple] is the only one helping Russian censors. If this policy is not changed, over time Apple's equipment will be useless for access to the free Internet from Russia as there will be nothing left in the Russian AppStore that has not been blocked by authorities."

Gaming furniture manufacturer Secretlab has unveiled the Secretlab Titan Evo NanoGen Edition, a new variant of its hugely popular Secretlab Titan Evo gaming chair. This model features all-new materials that have been designed with durability and plushness in mind.

The company is calling the new finish found on this model the Secretlab NanoGen Hybrid Leatherette and claims that it combines the resilience associated with a traditional leatherette and the softness of a plush material. The chair benefits from the new Secretlab NanoFoam Composite too, which is intended to provide a similar balance of support and comfort via a combination of a proprietary dual-layer foam mix and a lightweight microfoam top.

The chair is available in clean Pure White and Pure Black colorways and, in addition to its softer feel, the NanoGen Hybrid Leatherette offers enhanced UV resistance to ensure that its striking look doesn’t fade over time. “Specialty nanofibers” are also woven into the design to offer improved stain resistance, which is going to be especially good news if you have your eyes on that Pure White model.

The Secretlab Titan Evo NanoGen Edition comes paired with the Secretlab PlushCell Memory Foam Armrest Top out of the box, which is normally sold as a separate $79 / £65 add-on. These are a lot squishier than the usual Secretlab armrest tops and seem like a good match for the softer chair. 

This is in addition to an enhanced Heavy Duty Edition armrest, which has a 50% greater adjustment range for more personalized comfort. As you would expect, the chair is still compatible with the existing line of CloudSwap accessories which would allow you to swap out your armrests for other designs if desired.

You can order the chair today via the Secretlab website and costs $799 / £669 for its regular size. This is $250 / £200 more than the standard Secretlab Titan Evo 2022. The XL model then comes in at $849 / £719.

Managing Editor Rob Dwiar has been testing the chair for a few weeks and has found it to be wonderfully comfortable and soft. You can read all about it in our new Secretlab Titan Evo NanoGen Edition review.

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Hackers have stolen tens of thousands of cloud account credentials, by abusing exposed Git configuration files, experts have claimed.

Git configuration files are where Git saves different preferences and settings, such as names, email, or which files to ignore. They help Git know how to behave for different projects and can be set up globally (for all projects) or just for specific ones. Sometimes, developers will include valuable secrets in private repositories, since it’s faster, and more convenient. It generally isn’t a problem, as long as the repositories are properly secured.

However, when they are exposed on the internet, hackers can find and grab them, a report from cybersecurity researchers Sysdig, who dubbed the operation “EmeraldWhale”, has revealed.

Active credentials

The threat actors behind EmeraldWhale used multiple scanning tools, such as ‘httpx’, and ‘Masscan’ to scan websites hosted on some 500 million IP addresses. They divided them into 12,000 IP ranges, and looked for exposed Git configuration files.

Once found, the files were first downloaded, and then scanned for the second time, for things like passwords. Sysdig says that more than 15,000 cloud account credentials were stolen this way, and later used either in phishing and spam campaigns, or sold directly to other cybercriminals. Apparently, there’s plenty of money to be made with this discovery, since just a list of URLs pointing to exposed Git configuration files go for roughly $100 on Telegram groups.

In total, the stolen archives were 1TB in size, and included 15,000 credentials from 67,000 URLs. Of all of the exposed URLs, 28,000 corresponded to Git repositories, 6,000 to GitHub tokens, and 2,000 were confirmed as active credentials.

Defending against this type of attack isn’t difficult, just make sure to use a dedicated secret management tool to store the secrets.

Via BleepingComputer

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• Initium concept showcases new design direction for fuel cell vehicles
• Production is scheduled to begin next year
• SUV shape is a ploy to prove hydrogen is robust and safe for everyday use

Hyundai has lifted the lid on its latest hydrogen fuel cell concept, which features all-new fuel cell electric vehicle technology (FCEV) for improved range, performance and durability.

Destined to replace the Nexo, Hyundai’s long-serving but relatively slow-selling FCEV, the Initial concept showcases a bold new design direction that will house the latest technology.

Despite a global push for pure electric vehicles, Hyundai is one of the few automakers that is fully committed to hydrogen as a source of fuel for both future passenger cars, as well as an array of commercial vehicles, including buses, trucks and even construction equipment.

(Image credit: Future)

The Initium concept takes the form of a rugged SUV, complete with a new ‘Art of Steel’ design language that chief designer SangYup Lee says is both “solid and safe”. Apparently, the ‘+’ inspired graphic that you see in the light signature and the bumper will become a stable part of the company’s FCEV passenger cars of the future.

It borrows much off its face from the retro-futuristic N Vision 74 concept, a car that showcased hydrogen’s role in high-performance EVs. Initium is a continuation of this but wrapped up in a more consumer-friendly, SUV package.

Massive 21-inch wheels are covered in bespoke aerodynamic covers and wrapped in low rolling resistance tires, while a rugged roof rack houses integrated front lamps and taillights.

(Image credit: Hyundai)

The rear section has a feint whiff of Pontiac Aztek about it, although the LED lighting signature moves things on from Walter White chic. The four cubes at the front and rear apparently morse code for the letter ‘H’, signifying both Hyundai and hydrogen.

According to Jin Huang Jung, head of vehicle development at Hyundai, 220V Vehicle-to-Load technology allows the fuel cell stack, dubbed a portable green energy source, to power everything from outdoor cookers to appliances in the home. There’s no need for an adaptor either, as the external socket is designed to take Korean plugs.

Hyundai’s 27 years in hydrogen fuel cell research has resulted in the next generation of fuel cell stacks that it believes moves the game on from the early units found in the marque’s ground-breaking Tucson IX35, which offered a range of around 258-miles, and the Nexo of 2018, which increased that range to 414 miles in later iterations.

(Image credit: Future)

The next generation fuel cell vehicle, which will go into production next year, is aiming for a range in excess of 400 miles, which is not exactly the huge increase many expected. But with increased hydrogen density aboard its tanks and an electric motor that is now capable of developing 150kW – or around 200bhp – as opposed to 120kW.

The 0-62mph is now pegged at eight seconds, over a second faster than Nexo.

More importantly, Hyundai says the system’s durability has been drastically improved, reducing the overall degradation of the fuel cell stack to ensure it delivers the claimed range and performance for the vehicle’s lifespan.

Hyundai says it has also developed an FCEV-specific route planner that, much like those systems that hunt down an electric vehicle charging station, can plot an optimal route from within the infotainment system, finding hydrogen charging stations along the way without having to access a separate app.

Analysis: Hydrogen still has a long way to go

(Image credit: Hyundai)

According to Hyundai engineers, it costs around $23million to set-up a public hydrogen refueling station.

Despite this, South Korea hopes to grow its public charging stations from the 192 available today, to well over 600 by 2030. This will help it service the 40,000 hydrogen-powered vehicles it currently has on the roads.

However, the number of fueling stations in other key markets makes for depressing reading. There are just 100 in North America and 265 in Europe. In the UK, the number of hydrogen fueling stations is actually dwindling, not growing.

Producing and transporting hydrogen is also an expensive business, making the whole process costly and more complex than simply recharging batteries. Even handling a hydrogen fueling nozzle, which delivers the gas at a massive 350bar pressure, requires heavy lifting and a knowledge of the process.

(Image credit: Future)

There are also big questions over sustainability, as a hydrogen fuel cell stack is also complex and requires the use of raw earth materials. Couple this with the fact they also require a standard automotive battery pack to function, albeit a much smaller one than a typical EV, and it presents a major problem when it comes to recycling and the end-of-life process.

Jin Huang Jung, Hyundai's head of vehicle development, states that the company was “developing strategies” to recycle elements of the fuel cell stack at the end of its life, but recognized that there were no programs to reuse them like there are with typically EV battery packs.

There are also many issues surrounding the business of producing hydrogen that, if not done using clean energy sources like wind or solar, requires a huge amount of CO2-producing energy.

(Image credit: Hyundai)

But Hyundai’s HTWO vision goes beyond merely developing hydrogen-powered vehicles, as its plan is to create a circular economy where hydrogen is produced from biomass and plastic waste, distributed via its fleet of hydrogen-powered trucks and then used by everything from trams to even eVTOL craft.

The company already has a successful program running in the port of Oakland, California, where some 30 Class 8 Xcient fuel cell hydrogen-powered trucks are helping it reduce its carbon output without impacting payload abilities or halting operations with lengthy charging stops.

Hyundai sees hydrogen as an important part of the future’s energy mix, but the technology, despite being some 27 years old, still feels very much in its infancy where passenger cars are concerned.

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• SU7 Ultra sets record for fastest four-door EV
• It features the largest carbon disc brakes of any production sedan
• Due to be delivered to first customers next year

Xiaomi's debut SU7 electric vehicle has been a runaway success for the Chinese smartphone maker, but it isn’t done proving that it is the master of cooking up a sales storm in its domestic market.

Xiaomi founder, chairman, and CEO Lei Jun unveiled the SU7 Ultra prototype during an annual conference in July this year and has repeatedly taken to China’s premier social media platform Weibo to state the performance intentions of his project.

At Germany’s infamous Nurburgring, which has become the global benchmark for performance car lap times, the road-going, four-door EV managed to post a time of 6:46.874 – a staggering 20 seconds faster than the Porsche Taycan Turbo GT.

It’s a huge undertaking for any vehicle manufacturer, let alone a company that has more experience dealing in smartphones and consumer tech.

According to Lei Jun, the record was snagged with British endurance driver David Pittard behind the wheel in just one lap – a one-take wonder, if you will.

According to the onboard video footage, which can be viewed on YouTube (or just click above), the SU7 Ultra temporarily lost power around two thirds of the way into the run. Had this mishap not have occurred, the lap time would have been even more impressive.

Accessible performance

(Image credit: Xiaomi)

Far from simply being a PR stunt, the 1,526hp, tri-motor Xiaomi SU7 Ultra will join the rest of the line-up and go into production early next year. It is expected to cost 814,900 Chinese yuan – or around $114,000/£88,000/AU$174,000 – but like the rest of Xiaomi’s EV range, will only go on sale in China.

It is a phenomenal amount of car for the money and the spec sheet reads like a petrolhead’s Christmas list: carbon ceramic brakes, a 0-62mph sprint time of 1.98 seconds, a top speed of 217mph, adjustable Bilstein suspension, as well as an interior that’s dripping with carbon fibre and Alcantara.

Although the production model won’t be quite as aggressive as the vehicle that took to the Nurburgring, it will still feature a rear spoiler, a revised front splitter with massive air intakes and an active rear diffuser for added downforce.

It comes as no surprise that the Chinese smartphone manufacturer received 3,680 deposits in the first 10 minutes after the car’s release, according to CarScoops.

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Under-18s will soon be able to use their Android phone to complete contactless payments with parent-approved debit and credit cards.

In a statement issued to 9to5Google, Google confirmed that Google Wallet will be made available to kids in 2025.

To download and use the Wallet app, the individual in question must be a supervised child in Google’s Family Link system, which will allow them to use their parent or guardian’s approved debit or credit card to make tap-to-pay purchases in stores. Crucially, this system won't work online.

And even in brick-and-mortar environments, a device PIN, password, or biometric authentication will be needed to approve contactless payments.

Parents and guardians will also be able to view recent transactions, approve and remove cards remotely, and block passes.

This implementation of the Wallet app also allows the storage of event tickets and gift cards, but not health cards or any form of ID – at least not at launch.

The rollout follows the successful implementation of tap-to-pay on the Fitbit Ace LTE kids activity tracker, which Google says has garnered positive feedback (Fitbit has been a Google brand since 2021).

In fact, much of the infrastructure that will enable kids to use Google Wallet for Android is based on this earlier implementation on Wear OS.

Google Wallet for kids will roll out starting in 2025, with the US among the first countries to receive these new features. According to PhoneArena, Google is proceeding cautiously with this rollout to gather feedback and prioritize user safety.

It’s been a year of substantial updates for the Google Wallet app – as we previously reported, the app now supports passports, health insurance information, and library cards, among other types of passes and tickets.

As mentioned, the under-18s version of the app will be a lot simpler, but this change nonetheless represents another step towards Google’s apparent goal of having Wallet be your app for storing everything.

For the latest updates and official announcements, be sure to keep up with our Android coverage.

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Microsoft’s Q1 2025 results have exceeded expectations, but rather than having a positive impact on share prices, stock is down over future concerns.

Q1 2025 revenue stood at $65.6 billion, marking a 16% increase and a $1 billion jump over prior Wall Street projections. Operating income was also up by 14% to $30.6 billion.

However, despite the strong performance, company stock declined 4% in after-hours trading, likely as a result of slower-than-anticipated growth projections for the next three-month period.

Microsoft results

“AI-driven transformation is changing work, work artifacts, and workflow across every role, function, and business process,” Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella commented, indicating its cloud efforts are responsible for much of the ongoing growth.

“Strong execution by our sales teams and partners delivered a solid start to our fiscal year with Microsoft Cloud revenue of $38.9 billion,” said CFO Amy Hood. Microsoft Cloud’s $38.9 billion in quarterly revenue marks a considerable 22% year-over-year increase.

Besides its core cloud division, Microsoft noted that LinkedIn’s revenue had increased 10% and Microsoft 365 Commercial products and cloud services had grown by 13% – these are two areas of the business that have been infused with artificial intelligence in recent months, following billions of dollars of investment by the firm.

However, despite predicting continued growth to the tune of between $68.1 billion and $69.1 billion in the next financial quarter, shareholders have been stripped of confidence that the tech giant will continue to deliver such strong performance, leading stock to decline. Analysts had previously projected quarterly revenue of $69.83 billion – more than the upper end of Microsoft’s latest expectation.

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Chinese hackers have been dwelling on computers, networks, and other IT infrastructure of the Canadian government for five years, monitoring - and stealing - sensitive information, experts have warned.

This is according to “National Cyber Threat Assessment 2025-2026”, a paper published by the Canadian Centre for Cyber Security (Cyber Centre), the country's technical authority on cybersecurity, and part of the Communications Security Establishment Canada (CSE).

The paper claims, the state-sponsored threat actors were engaged in cyber-espionage with the goal of gaining strategic, economic, and diplomatic advantages.

Targeting political enemies

“PRC state-sponsored cyber threat actors persistently conduct cyber espionage against federal, provincial, territorial, municipal, and Indigenous government networks in Canada,” the paper reads. “PRC cyber threat actors have compromised and maintained access to multiple government networks over the past five years, collecting communications and other valuable information.”

The paper concludes that “all known federal government compromises” have been resolved, but stresses that the threat actors dedicated “significant time and resources” to learn about the target networks, suggesting that there may be remnants of the attacks.

The Chinese were not just looking, either. When they saw an appropriate target - they struck. Apparently, government officials critical of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) were attacked, back in 2021. Namely, members of the Inter-Parliamentary Alliance on China (IPAC) were targeted with emails designed to place trackers onto the victim’s devices, for network reconnaissance.

The Chinese seem mostly interested in advanced robotics, quantum computing, 6G networks, intelligence computing centers, Web3 (blockchain), and advanced aviation. The report also concludes that private sector organizations (mostly in these industries) were also in the crosshairs.

The news is hardly shocking, as the Canadian government recently issued a statement saying Chinese threat actors ran “multiple reconnaissance scans” throughout 2024, targeting “Government of Canada departments and agencies, and includes federal political parties, the House of Commons and Senate.”

“They also targeted dozens of organizations, including democratic institutions, critical infrastructure, the defense sector, media organizations, think tanks and NGOs,” the statement said.

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The US Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) has released its plan for international co-operation on strengthening the security of critical infrastructure.

US critical infrastructure has been subject to constant attacks from Russia, China, and Iran over the past year as state-sponsored groups look for vulnerabilities and weaknesses to exploit.

US allies have also experienced similar attacks, with the UK government stepping up classifications of critical national infrastructure in the face of rising threats from Russia and China, and CISA’s 2025-2026 International Strategic Plan now looks to improve international cooperation for critical infrastructure security.

Bolstering resilience

The plan rests upon three main goals; bolstering the resilience of foreign infrastructure on which the U.S. depends; strengthening integrated cyber defense; and unifying agency coordination of international activities.

The critical infrastructure CISA is looking to protect includes pipelines, telecommunications, and essential supply chains both in the US and within the territories of US allies across the globe, with the document outlining the main threats as “cyberattacks, chemical and improvised explosive devices, threats to supply chain interdependencies, foreign malign investments, and climate change.”

In light of the increasing geopolitical tensions following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and the escalating trade war with China, CISA has already spearheaded multiple programs collaborating with international partners to combat attacks against infrastructure. The new plan seeks to open new lines of communication and improve information exchange to improve the accuracy and responsiveness when defending against attacks.

It’s not just state sponsored cyber threats that are prioritized for defense. The plan extends beyond cyber defense, with CISA also looking to support “emerging technology, chemical security, emergency communications, school safety, bombing prevention, and more to ensure that systems, infrastructure, government, business, and the public can withstand and recover from deliberate attacks, accidents, and natural hazards.”

“In following this plan, CISA will improve coordination with our partners and strengthen international relationships to reduce risk to the globally interconnected and interdependent cyber and physical infrastructure that Americans rely on every day," noted CISA Director Jen Easterly.

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Marvel's Wolverine creative director is now the lead of The Initiative's Perfect Dark's reboot.

As reported by GameFile, two sources familiar with the project told the publication that developer Brian Horton, who was named Wolverine's creative director in 2021, left the project this summer.

Horton, who has also worked as creative director on Marvel's Spider-Man: Miles Morales, is now the new creative director of Xbox's Perfect Dark, which is being developed by The Initiative and Embracer-owned Crystal Dynamics.

According to an Xbox representative, Horton will be "bringing his wealth of experience to the upcoming reboot of the classic secret agent series.”

Meanwhile, Insomniac's upcoming PS5 superhero game is now being led by creative director Marcus Smith, a Sony representative confirmed, while Mike Daly will serve as the new game director.

Both Smith and Daly have previously worked on Insomniac's Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart as creative director and game director respectively.

Wolverine's previous game director, Cameron Christian, will remain at the studio but in a different role.

The two sources told the publication that the changes on the project come as a result of "creative decisions around the game" but Sony's representative was unable to comment on the reason for the switch-up in roles.

Marvel's Wolverine was announced during Sony's PlayStation Showcase in September 2021, with a brief teaser trailer, but Insomniac has kept the project under wraps ever since. We don't even have a release date or release window for the game, just yet.

As for Perfect Dark, fans received a brand new gameplay trailer during the Xbox Games Showcase at Summer Game Fest 2024. Unfortunately, there's still no release date for first-person shooter, but we do know that it's coming to Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S, and PC.

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Prime Video's hit action thriller Tom Clancy's Jack Ryan is getting the movie treatment with John Krasinski set to reprise the role as the titular CIA analyst. Deadline reported that Amazon MGM Studios is developing a new feature film as "the next stage in the evolution of the franchise" after the popular Prime Video series came to an end in 2023.

Jack Ryan co-executive producer and season 2 director Andrew Bernstein is set to direct the movie spin-off from a script written by Aaron Rabin, who was a co-executive producer and writer on Jack Ryan season 4. Wendell Pierce (The Wire) and Michael Kelly (The Penguin) are also in talks to reprise their roles as former CIA boss James Greer and CIA station chief Mike November in the upcoming movie.

Jack Ryan is based on the iconic character created by author Tom Clancy and has been the subject of 21 books. The Prime Video TV adaptation was a modern-day reiteration of the classic novels before Amazon called time on the action-packed series after four seasons. Jack Ryan was one of the streamer's most-watched series globally, with the final two episodes of season 4 earning 1.15 billion minutes of viewing according to Nielsen.

What is Jack Ryan about?

Krasinski stars in one of the best Prime Video shows as the former US Marine who is an up-and-coming CIA analyst. However, when he's flung into a dangerous field assignment for the first time, he constantly finds himself in the firing line as he uncovers a pattern in terrorist communication that threatens the world.

Since the Jack Ryan movie is still in development, there are currently no plot details regarding the future film, but we can imagine that we'll get some much-loved Jack Ryan action as he takes down bad guys all across the world.

This isn't the first time Jack Ryan has been adapted into a feature-length film. In fact, Krasinski is the fifth actor to play Jack Ryan in a movie, with Alec Baldwin being the first to portray the spy in the 1990 flick The Hunt for Red October. After that, Harrison Ford, Ben Affleck and Chris Pine all took on the role in various films, before being rebooted as the first episodic series by John Krasinski and Prime Video in 2018.

If you can't wait for the Jack Ryan movie to start streaming on one of the best streaming services, check out these adrenaline-pumping spy thrillers on Prime Video in the meantime.

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Samsung has seemingly confirmed that its XR hardware was delayed after all, but simultaneously revealed that its long-awaited VR/AR device will still land “in the future” – with its inclusion in Samsung’s 2025 outlook suggesting a launch sometime next year. However recent comments have us convinced the headset is dead and the rumored gadget will be a pair of simple AR specs instead.

Initially, it was rumored the South Korean tech giant was working on a Samsung XR headset – something like the Meta Quest 3 or (perhaps more appropriately) the high-end Apple Vision Pro. This project faced two setbacks – reportedly because of the Vision Pro. Once from the hype around the Apple headset scaring Samsung into rethinking the project, and again following the eventual unpopularity of the headset, showing that chasing the Vision Pro might not have been a smart move.

More recently there’s been talk around Samsung AR glasses. It’s been unclear if these specs will launch as well as the headset (perhaps a little later to compete with the Meta Orion AR glasses) or if they’ll launch instead of the XR headset – however, conversations are pointing toward the latter.

When talking about the Samsung and Google XR device back in September, Qualcomm CEO Cristian Amon, (who is also collaborating on the project) said that the product would make consumers rethink their relationship with their smartphone, and make everyone with a phone “go buy companion glasses to go along with it.” Amon didn’t outright say the Samsung device is a set of companion glasses, but it certainly sounds like that’s the sort of tech Samsung is teeing up.

Will the Samsung glasses be like Xreal's? (Image credit: Future)

Then there’s the general popularity of smart glasses – like the Ray-Ban Meta specs – and the accessibility of mixed reality compared to the more isolating VR. The industry trend seems to be pushing towards these more casual wearables rather than a full-on headset, so Samsung would likely want to adapt.

Samsung Glasses also make a lot of sense from a business perspective. The likes of the Xreal Air 2 glasses and non-AR Meta Ray-Bans are very reliant on smartphones (especially the former) – something Samsung is very well known for.

What we want to see

So if Samsung is launching AR companion glasses, what should we expect?

Well ideally, it’ll opt for something wireless. The wired Xreal specs are fine, but their lack of an internal battery means they have to rely solely on the device they’re connected to – and they drain the charge very fast.

They’re not really ideal for using if you’ll be traveling away from a reliable plug socket (or don’t have a Beam Pro add-on), but an internal battery would mean the Samsung glasses could power themselves and not leave with a phone on 0% – albeit at the cost of some added weight.

We’re also expecting 4K screens. This depends how Samsung implements the AR aspect of its specs, but if it follows the design of Xreal’s glasses (and other similar companion glasses) then we’re hoping it’ll opt for 4K resolution instead of the industry standard full-HD. Our thinking here is that Samsung's display expertise (as demonstrated by its phones and stunning TVs) make us believe it might face public ridicule if it opts for merely an HD resolution – ridicule it might want to avoid.

Lastly, we want interactability. While some companion specs have started to include hand-tracking, most still don’t, but Samsung will want its specs to land in that former camp. Whether as a direct competitor or as something entirely different, Samsung’s first XR project will either way be seen as its Apple Vision Pro rival.

Much like how it needs 4K visuals, some level of interactability feels equally necessary, alongside unique AR apps or well-made ports of existing software that make the companion glasses feel like a necessary upgrade (and not simply a device for demonstration purposes).

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The critically acclaimed Cyberpunk 2077 from developer CD Projekt Red (CDPR) is making its way to Apple Silicon Macs next year - and I’m starting to wonder if Apple’s newly announced M4 Mac mini ($599 / £599 / AU$999) could compete with next-gen consoles like Sony’s PS5 Pro with more triple-A title additions like this.

The first-person action-RPG proved to be a monumental success on console and Windows PCs, despite a rocky launch that sent the developer back to the drawing board. With the game now stable in terms of bugs and performance and boasting a kick-ass major expansion in the form of Phantom Liberty, it appears that now is the perfect time for it to be ported to Macs.

Apple’s list of triple-A games is continuously expanding, as we’ve seen with the Resident Evil 4 remake, Death Stranding Director’s Cut, and Baldur’s Gate 3. Among this lineup, CDPR’s Cyberpunk 2077 is possibly the most demanding of all in terms of hardware requirements - but it seems like even the base M4 version of the new Mac mini will be able to handle all those virtual car chases and Braindances, based on its specifications.

(Image credit: CD Projekt Red) Sony could be in big trouble if the cheaper M4 Mac mini outperforms the PS5 Pro

A big part of this is the fact that Apple has finally moved away from 8GB of unified memory as the baseline for Mac devices - a nightmare for the gaming performance on the cheaper configurations of previous M-series Macs, since that RAM was shared between the CPU and integrated GPU. Now with the base M4 Mac mini rocking 16GB, high performance while gaming looks like a stronger possibility (though it’s still clear that Apple’s primary focus isn’t gaming right now).

Now, there is still a long way for Apple to go with gaming on Macs - specifically with games landing on the platform far later than on Windows PCs and consoles, and many gamers simply not recognizing it as a legitimate gaming brand. Despite this, Cyberpunk 2077’s addition is a huge indication of how great the new M4 chips could be for gaming.

The entry-level configuration of the M4 Mac mini is not only far more compact and also a bit cheaper than Sony’s PS5 Pro (which starts at $699 / £699 / AU$1,119.95), but on paper, it looks like it could potentially outperform the enhanced console. Of course, this might not translate into real-world superiority; optimizing a game for the PS5 is easier for developers, and the console’s bulky chassis means it has far better cooling than the tiny Mac mini. Still, Apple’s Macs are well within reach of providing strong competition in the gaming hardware scene, especially if game devs continue to port big titles to the platform.

We’ve already seen the level of backlash that came from the announcement of its price - there are a plethora of Windows gaming PC builds, that can perform closely to the PS5 Pro within a similar price bracket, so Apple’s Mac mini may leave many reconsidering the Pro console’s value and contemplating this tiny computer as their new living-room gaming machine…

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Full spoilers follow for Agatha All Along's two-episode finale.

Agatha All Along has reached the end of the road on Disney Plus – and I know you've got questions that desperately need answering after its two-part finale.

Marvel's final live-action show of 2024 was a twisty-turny offering that prompted as many, if not more, fan theories and queries than its prequel series WandaVision did. And, as the dust settles on one of the best Disney Plus shows we've seen in a while, it's time to answer the questions that I can after streaming its last two entries, including whether there's a post-credits scene to stick around for and if that popular Marvel character makes a brief but crowd-pleasing cameo.

This is your final warning: major spoilers immediately follow for Agatha All Along, so turn back if you haven't seen it all.

Who dies in Agatha All Along's final two episodes?

Death comes for us all eventually (Image credit: Marvel Television/Disney Plus)

Of those who are left after Agatha All Along's first seven episodes, the titular character, aka Agatha Harkness, is the only member of her temporary coven who perishes in the Marvel Phase 5 show's two-part finale.

She sacrifices – or, in her words, "takes a calculated risk" – herself to prevent Rio Vidal, who was revealed to be Lady Death in Agatha All Along episode 7, from killing Billy Maximoff. Remember, Billy is the one of the fabricated offspring created by Wanda Maximoff in WandaVision. In that series' final episode, Billy and twin brother Tommy appeared to die but, thanks to Billy's incredibly powerful supernatural/magical abilities, his soul survived. In Agatha All Along episode 5, it was also revealed that Billy's soul found a new home in the body of William Kaplan – a Westview resident who died in a car crash during the events of WandaVision's ninth installment, which sets Agatha All Along's events in motion.

Not the glory you were hoping for, eh, Agatha? (Image credit: Marvel Television/Disney Plus)

As Rio/Lady Death tells Agatha in this show's eighth chapter, titled 'Follow Me My Friend, To Glore At The End', Billy's possession of William's body is an "abomination" that defies the laws of life and death as it gives Billy a second chance to live. So, in order to restore balance to, as The Lion King (I bet you didn't expect me to reference an animated Disney film here!) puts it, the Circle of Life, Lady Death needs to take Billy's soul and let William's body finally rest.

Agatha agrees to Rio's request to hand over Billy once they reach the end of the Witches' Road, but only if Rio doesn't appear to Agatha when it's time for her to die, which Rio agrees to. However, when the time comes, Billy appeals to Agatha's motherly instincts – as episode 9 reveals, Agatha's own son Nicholas Scratch, who's been referenced time and again in this show, died in the 1700s – in a move that convinced Agatha to sacrifice herself instead of Billy. That causes Agatha to kiss Rio – the Kiss of Death, how clever! – which leads to Agatha's demise.

Of course, Agatha isn't completely dead. Episode 9, titled 'Maiden, Mother, Crone', confirms her spirit lives on, with Agatha now existing as a ghost. Unfortunately, Agatha All Along doesn't confirm if she inhabits a new afterlife-style plan of existence, or exists in one we've seen before, such as Black Panther's Ancestral Plane, the Thor film series' Valhalla, Moon Knight's Duat, or Doctor Strange's Astral Dimension.

What do Billy and Agatha find at the end of the Witches' Road?

It turns out Agatha isn't fully dead after all (Image credit: Marvel Television/Disney Plus)

Technically, nothing. In a startling twist, Agatha All Along's final episode confirms the Witches' Road isn't actually real and that it's just a fabricated realm that Billy conjured up using his reality-warping powers way back in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) show's premiere.

The 'Ballad of the Witches' Road, i.e. the song that witches need to sing in order to access the magic-imbued parallel dimension, is nothing but a con, too. Indeed, it's a song that Agatha and Nicholas made up in the 18th century. After Nicholas' death, Agatha uses it to lure coven-less witches together so she could steal their powers and drain their life force in order to live longer.

All of that means, then, that the Witches' Road was a manifestation of Billy's desire to find his brother Tommy, and that it was built upon the biggest lie Agatha had ever spun. It also means that those who died while walking the road – Sharon Davis, Alice Wu-Gulliver, and Lilia Calderu – were all technically murdered by Billy. Without him creating the road, the trio would still be alive.

I wonder how many people are going to be making last-minute Wiccan Halloween costumes after episode 8 (Image credit: Marvel Television/Disney Plus)

Walking the magically assembled Witches' Road had some benefits, mind you. It helped Jennifer Kale, the only other survivor of the road, to regain her own magical powers by breaking the binding spell placed on her by Agatha over a century earlier. Billy – or Teen, as he was known for the first half of Agatha All Along – learned his true identity, found out about his own potent powers, and, with Agatha's help, realized that Tommy's soul survived, too.

As for Agatha, she also regained her abilities (before she did, anyway) after Billy uses his powers to revive hers during their episode 8 showdown with Lady Death. In a way, then, the Witches' Road did serve a purpose for those who survived its many trials.

What happens to Nicholas Scratch in Agatha All Along? Will he become Mephisto in the MCU?

Will we see Agatha's son again? (Image credit: Marvel Television/Disney Plus)

As I mentioned, Agatha's only child died in the mid-1700s. As Agatha is giving birth to him, Rio/Lady Death appears and essentially tells Agatha that she'll only get so much time with Nicholas before death comes calling. Long story short: Agatha only enjoys six years with her son as Nicholas gets sick and dies in his sleep.

Of course, the question remains what happens to him once Lady Death comes knocking. In Marvel comics, Nicholas Scratch is a warlock and long-time foe of The Fantastic Four. Could we see him make a cameo in The Fantastic Four: First Steps movie next July, then? I think that's very unlikely, especially with rumors circulating that Marvel's First Family exist in an alternate universe to the MCU's Earth-616.

Marvel might have other plans for Nicholas in the MCU, though. The 'Scratch' half of his name is a reference to Old Scratch, one of many aliases given to the devil. Mephisto, a character inspired by the devil, is a demonic entity who not only exists in Marvel comics, but someone who fans expected to be WandaVision's main villain. Wouldn't it be fun, then, if Mephisto is revealed to be Nicholas Scratch in a future MCU project? There's speculation that he could appear in Ironheart, one of many Marvel shows set to arrive in 2025, so we could learn more in that series if he appears. Of course, this is all conjecture on my part, so don't take it as gospel.

Is there a post credits scene in Agatha All Along?

Is it worth sticking around for an end credits scene? (Image credit: Marvel Television/Disney Plus)

No. Agatha All Along ends with Billy and his ghostly mentor in Agatha embarking on a quest to locate Tommy. After the final end credits sequence rolls, though, there's no end credits scene to stick around for, so I'm unsure where the pair will turn up next. 

Is Marvel going to make Agatha All Along season 2?

Don't bet on a second season of Agatha All Along, folks (Image credit: Marvel Television/Disney Plus)

I don't know. The chances of a second season, though, are very slim, because there's already a second WandaVision spin-off in development at Marvel Studios. Speaking fo which (or should that be witch?)...

Will Billy and Agatha's ghost appear in Marvel's Vision Quest TV show?

Marvel is making a White Vision-led TV series that could include Billy and Agatha cameos (Image credit: Marvel Studios/Disney)

Most likely. I've no insider information about when we'll see them again, but they're sure to appear in the untitled Vision-starring series, the Marvel Phase 6 show that seems like it'll take inspiration from Tom King's 'Vision' comic series. 

Led by Paul Bettany, who's played the synthezoid since 2014's Avengers: Age of Ultron,  this TV project will apparently start filming in January 2025 in the UK. It's being written by Star Trek: Picard season 3 showrunner Terry Matalas and will follow White Vision, who was initially created by SWORD director Tyler Hayward in WandaVision from Vision's corpse – remember, Vision was killed by Thanos in Avengers: Infinity War. However, Wanda's chaos magic-created Vision restores White Vision's memories, which causes White Vision to freak out and flee Westview for an unknown location. 

So, Marvel's untitled Vision series should pick up this loose story thread and reunite us with a White Vision who's not only confused and scared by these restored memories, but also an artificial being trying to find his place in the world. That's something Billy and Agatha will no doubt be able to help with, especially if they find Tommy, track down White Vision, and reunite three-quarters of the Maximoff-Vision family.

Does Wanda Maximoff/The Scarlet Witch make a cameo in Agatha All Along?

Nope, Elizabeth Olsen doesn't appear in Agatha All Along's two-part finale (Image credit: Marvel Studios)

Again, no. Wanda is referenced on multiple occasions throughout Agatha All Along, but Elizabeth Olsen, who plays Wanda, doesn't cameo. The fate of this fan-favorite character remains unclear, then, after her apparent demise in Doctor Strange 2. Considering how popular Olsen's Scarlet Witch is, though, don't be shocked when it's revealed she's actually alive in Marvel's Vision-led show on one of the world's best streaming services or another MCU project.

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In spite of the push to go paperless, SMBs still rely heavily on printers for their day-to-day operations. Choosing the right printer can significantly impact your productivity, budget, and even your environmental footprint.

But with so many options available, how do you know which is the best small business printer for you? Do you need a laser printer for high-volume text documents, or would an inkjet be better for your colorful presentations? Should you invest in a multifunction all-in-one printer, or stick with a single-function printer? And what about those new bulk-ink models - are they worth considering?

These are just a few of the questions you might be grappling with as you search for the perfect printer. The choice can seem overwhelming, especially when you're trying to balance performance, cost, and long-term value.

We'll talk about the various types of printers suitable for SMBs, discuss key features to look for, and provide you with essential questions to ask before making your purchase. By the end of this article, you'll be equipped with all the knowledge you need to choose a printer that will serve your business efficiently and economically for years to come.

We’ve also covered the best small business printers.

Types of SMB printers

When it comes to choosing a printer for your SMB, the underlying technology plays a crucial role in determining its suitability for your specific needs. Let's take a closer look at the main types of printers available:

• Inkjet Printers: These versatile printers are a popular choice for many SMBs. They work by spraying tiny droplets of ink onto paper, making them excellent for producing high-quality color documents and photos. In my experience, inkjet printers are particularly well-suited for businesses that need to print a mix of text and graphics, such as marketing agencies or real estate offices. Modern inkjet printers have come a long way in terms of speed and efficiency, with some models rivaling laser printers in these aspects.
• Laser Printers: If your SMB primarily prints text documents in high volumes, a laser printer might be your best bet. These printers use a laser beam and toner to create sharp, crisp text at high speeds. They're typically more expensive upfront but can be more cost-effective in the long run for businesses with high print volumes. I've found laser printers to be particularly useful in legal offices, accounting firms, and other businesses that produce a lot of text-heavy documents.
• LED Printers: Similar to laser printers, LED printers use light to create an image on a drum, which then transfers toner to paper. They're often more compact and energy-efficient than traditional laser printers, making them a good choice for SMBs with limited space or those looking to reduce their energy consumption.
• Solid Ink Printers: Although less common, solid ink printers are worth considering for SMBs that need high-quality color printing. These printers melt solid ink sticks and apply the liquefied ink to paper. They produce vibrant colors and are generally more eco-friendly than other printer types, as they generate less waste.
• Multifunction Printers (MFPs): Also known as all-in-one printers, these devices combine printing, scanning, copying, and sometimes faxing capabilities in a single unit. For many SMBs, an MFP can be a space-saving and cost-effective solution. In my own small business, our MFP has been invaluable for its versatility, allowing us to handle a variety of document management tasks with just one machine.

Features to look for in an SMB printer

When shopping for a printer for your SMB, there are several key features you should consider to ensure you're getting a device that meets your needs and provides good value for money.

• Print Speed: For busy offices, print speed can be crucial. Look for a printer with a pages per minute (ppm) rate that matches your output needs. Remember, color printing is typically slower than black and white.
• Print Quality: Consider the resolution (measured in dots per inch or dpi) that you need. Higher resolution means sharper text and more detailed images, but it also usually means slower printing and higher ink or toner consumption.
• Connectivity: In today's connected world, you'll want a printer that offers multiple connectivity options. Look for printers with Ethernet ports for network printing, Wi-Fi for wireless printing, and perhaps even NFC or Bluetooth for easy mobile printing.
• Paper Handling: Consider the paper capacity, the ability to handle different paper sizes and types, and whether you need features like automatic duplexing (double-sided printing).
• Running Costs: Don't just look at the upfront cost of the printer. Consider the cost per page, which includes ink or toner and other consumables. Some printers might be cheaper to buy but more expensive to run.
• Duty Cycle: This refers to the maximum number of pages a printer can produce per month without breaking down. Make sure the printer's duty cycle exceeds your expected monthly print volume.
• Energy Efficiency: Look for printers with energy-saving features like automatic sleep mode or ENERGY STAR certification. These can help reduce your electricity bills and your business's environmental impact.
• Security Features: If you'll be printing sensitive documents, look for printers with security features like secure print release or the ability to encrypt data sent to the printer.

Questions to ask when choosing an SMB printer

Before making your final decision, it's important to ask yourself (and potentially the printer vendor) some key questions:

• What is our average monthly print volume? This will help determine the type and capacity of printer you need.
• What types of documents do we primarily print? Text-heavy documents, graphics, photos, or a mix?
• Do we need color printing, or is black and white sufficient?
• How important is print speed to our operations?
• Do we need additional functions like scanning, copying, or faxing?
• What's our budget, both for the initial purchase and for ongoing costs?
• How much physical space do we have for a printer?
• What level of print quality do we require?
• Do we need any special features, like wide-format printing or the ability to print on specialized media?
• How important are environmental considerations in our printer choice?

Creating an ideal printer setup for SMBs

Choosing the perfect printer for your SMB isn't just about picking a single device - it's about creating a printing ecosystem that meets all your business needs efficiently and cost-effectively.

Start by assessing your printing needs thoroughly. Consider not just your current requirements, but also how they might evolve in the near future. If you're a growing business, it might be worth investing in a printer that can handle higher volumes than you currently need.

Don't be afraid to mix and match different types of printers if that's what works best for your business. For example, you might have a high-speed laser printer for bulk text documents, an inkjet for occasional color printing, and a multifunction device for general office use.

Remember, the cheapest printer isn't always the most cost-effective in the long run. Consider the total cost of ownership, including supplies and maintenance, over the expected life of the printer. In my experience, investing in a higher-quality printer often pays off in terms of reliability and lower per-page costs.

Lastly, don't forget about software and support. Look for printers that are compatible with your existing systems and come with good customer support. A printer is only as good as its ability to integrate seamlessly into your workflow and keep running smoothly day after day.

We've featured the best workgroup printers.

Running costs

One of the main concerns with printers is that after their initial purchase price, what will the ongoing cost be over the lifetime of the printer?

For many businesses the cost of ink for their printers is often an afterthought, indeed if this is considered at all. For decades the printer (inkjet printers in particular) have been berated for the high cost of printer ink. Manufacturers cite high R&D costs as the reason, but businesses have understood for several years that ink costs will be high to compensate for the low cost of purchasing the printer itself.

Various schemes have been tried over the years with HP Instant Ink being the latest. Here a compatible printer – for businesses the OfficeJet Pro 8610 all-in-one is a good choice – will automatically order more ink via post to ensure it never runs out.

You enrol your printer and set a subscription level based on the number of pages a month you will be printing. The system is flexible enough to allow businesses to begin at a low subscription rate and up this as print volume increases.

As the cost of replacement inkjet cartridges remains high, the market for unbranded cartridges has become widespread. Should your business use unbranded ink? The inkjet printer manufacturers have used various techniques to stop this practice with the most common being the addition of a microchip to their own legitimate cartridges that the printer reads before accepting the new replacement ink.

The quality of the ink and the attached microchips can be an issue for some printers. Research by Which indicated that it's really a trial and error exercise with some users having little or no problems with unbranded cartridges, with others reporting their printers rejecting the cartridges completely. If your business is looking to save some money on cartridges, it seems you will have to simply try a few from unbranded sellers and see which work. It's worth a try though, as they can cost half the retail price of branded inks.

For several years it has been possible to retrofit an inkjet printer with a refillable ink tank. The ink cartridges in the printer are replaced with new cartridges that have a pipe running to a large external ink tank for each ink colour, which can be refilled.

Coros has unveiled its latest watch, the Coros Pace Pro – its high-powered sequel to the very well-received Coros Pace 3, with a 1500-nit AMOLED screen and improved processing power.

Like its predecessor, the Coros Pace Pro is shaping to be another serious contender for the best running watch crown in 2024. Coros has never been as popular as its contemporaries such as the best Garmin watches, but it’s been making consistently excellent watches for years, and the Pace Pro looks to be no different. The processor upgrade means it’s reportedly twice as fast as the Pace 3, while the full-color AMOLED screen means it can showcase full-color maps, zooming in three times as fast as the Coros Apex 2 Pro.

Coros watches always have excellent battery life, and the Coros Pace Pro looks to be no different, coming in at 20 days of daily usage in smartwatch mode and 31 hours in dual-band GPS mode. When it comes to monitoring health, Coros has designed the rear sensor array with 5 LEDs and 4 photodetector, capable of monitoring heart health and SpO2 (blood oxygen) with increased accuracy.

(Image credit: Coros)

Its navigational features extend to more than just offline global and topographical maps: street names will also be supported with a software update in 2025, so city runners will feel more confident with its Turn-By-Turn directional navigation and Back to Start features. Like existing watches in the Coros app, you can create and edit routes directly, although I’m missing Garmin’s automatic circular route generation.

Workout creation, sleep tracking, and all the usual wellness smarts are baked-in, with additional Sleep Quality and Garmin-like Gear Tracking features coming to the watch in further software updates.

The Coros Pace Pro is available now, costing £349.99 in the UK (around $450 / AU$690), with exact US and AU pricing TBC.

Analysis: A straight upgrade

The Coros Pace Pro looks like a straight upgrade over the Pace 3 in almost every respect. I still like the Pace 3 (in fact, I actually love the fact that a comprehensive running watch is so cheap and light to wear) so I’m excited to test the Pace Pro. Coros seems to want to keep pace (sorry) with Garmin’s Forerunner range, so the introduction of an AMOLED screen to the Pace series could be a direct response to Garmin doing the same thing last year.

I think it’ll do very well – but watch this space to see exactly how well.

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Not long ago, a leak suggested that Samsung was working on both a budget Galaxy Z Flip model – which based on Samsung’s naming conventions might perhaps launch as a Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7 FE – and a tri-fold device, and now the company itself has reportedly hinted at these things.

According to leaker @Jukanlosreve, in a conference call a Samsung executive said the company was "considering ways to lower entry barriers so that more customers can actually experience foldable products, given the high satisfaction among existing foldable users,” which certainly seems to suggest that a budget model of some kind might be in the works.

They also apparently added that “we are also preparing new form factors to deliver a more powerful and innovative mobile experience” – and a new form factor could refer to a tri-fold handset.

Samsung Conference Call -“We are considering ways to lower entry barriers so that more customers can actually experience foldable products, given the high satisfaction among existing foldable users,” hinting at the preparation of budget-friendly foldable models.The Fold will…October 31, 2024

Likely candidates

The person speaking here didn’t get into specifics, but since both a budget Galaxy Z Flip model and a tri-fold model have previously been mentioned in leaks, they seem obvious candidates.

The comments are also interesting because just a week ago Samsung claimed that it has “no plans” to launch a cheaper foldable. So it could be that any affordable model won’t launch for quite a while.

Hopefully a cheaper model is in the works though, as lowering the barrier to entry for foldable phones can only be a good thing. As for the tri-fold device, we’d imagine that will be extremely expensive if and when it launches.

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OpenAI has just announced ChatGPT Advanced Voice mode is now available for the Mac and PC versions of its chatbot, in addition to the mobile versions.

The update was revealed with the phrase “Big day for desktops” in a tweet on X.com. While the Mac version of the ChatGPT app has been out for a while now, the Windows version only just launched. Until now, however, Advanced Voice mode wasn't available as it currently does not work in the browser-based version of ChatGPT.

Big day for desktops.Advanced Voice is now available in the macOS and Windows desktop apps.https://t.co/mv4ACwIhzA pic.twitter.com/HbwXbN9NkDOctober 30, 2024

A similar experience to mobile

We’ve tried the desktop version of Advanced Voice mode on PC and the experience is refreshingly similar to the mobile version: You click the Advanced Voice icon that’s on the right of the prompt bar and a new window pops up with the familiar floating blue orb that pulses as ChatGPT listens.

You can immediately start having a free-flowing, natural conversation with ChatGPT using one of its nine different voices about pretty much any subject you like. To change voice you simply need to hit the icon in the top right of the screen and you can switch between its nine different voices.

(Image credit: OpenAI)

Advanced Voice mode uses ChatGPT-4o, which is OpenAI’s most accessible current model, for all interactions. A key feature of ChatGPT Advanced Voice mode is that you can interrupt the AI at any time and it should stop talking and start listening to what you’re saying. This is particularly handy when you find its answers are going on a bit too long, and it also helps keep the conversation going.

As with the mobile version, you need to be a ChatGPT Plus subscriber ($20, £16, AU$30) to access Advanced Voice Mode, but there is an option for people to use it on the free tier, although it's limited to just 10 minutes a month of talk time.

ChatGPT Advanced Voice mode has been available in the US for some time now but recently launched in Europe. A new version of ChatGPT called Orion is rumored to be released before the end of the year, but Open AI CEO Sam Altman has dismissed the rumor as 'fake news'.

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