TechRadar News

• HTC is exploring portable 6G networks with MediaTek and Intel
• VIVE Mars enhances virtual production with real-time AI interactions
• MWC attendees experience HTC’s AI-powered virtual production first-hand

HTC VIVE has unveiled its bid to help boost the spatial computing industry with a number of new AI-driven developments.

While HTC is no longer focused on Microsoft's HoloLens, it continues to develop enterprise-focused technologies, including updates to its VIVERSE platform, virtual production tools, and private network solutions, shown off at at MWC 2025.

VIVERSE, a spatial computing platform, now features AI tools which enable users to create interactive virtual environments without programming knowledge.

AI-driven enhancements in virtual production

HTC is also bringing new AI capabilities to VIVE Mars, its virtual production solution used in commercial projects such as advertisements and music videos. These features allow real-time interaction with digital environments, making filmmaking and content creation more dynamic.

HTC aims to make professional-grade filmmaking tools more accessible, but beyond immersive experiences, the company is also aiming to advance network technology, as its G REIGNS division is showcasing developments in private 5G and a concept for a portable 6G network.

In collaboration with MediaTek and Intel, HTC is exploring ways to optimize network performance for AI applications, autonomous systems, and industrial automation.

6G and beyond

The 6G concept uses an "Edge Cloud" approach, offloading heavy computing tasks from devices to distributed network infrastructure. This reduces latency and improves efficiency, particularly for applications like generative AI and privacy-focused data processing.

HTC is working with Nissan to deploy a private 5G network and Edge Cloud VR solution for industrial design. This setup enables high-speed, low-latency collaboration in real time, helping design teams work with precision in a secure VR environment.

In cultural and educational applications, HTC is partnering with Château de Versailles to create immersive historical experiences. An interactive exhibit at MWC will explore the world of Antoni Gaudí, demonstrating how VR can bring artistic movements and historical figures to life.

Meanwhile, platforms like Excurio enable large-scale VR experiences, allowing multiple users to explore different virtual environments simultaneously.

“AI is opening new ways for people and businesses to unleash their imagination, and make lives better," said Cher Wang, Co-Founder and Chairperson of HTC.

"We dream of a world where technology is Open, Connected, and Intelligent. At HTC VIVE we believe AI has to be used responsibly, with Privacy and Security at the forefront so people have safety and peace of mind. AI should solve problems and help people, and not replace them – and in this way technology can elevate humanity."

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I have always been the kind of person who gets lost in research. Some people scroll social media before bed; I deep dive into archaeological studies of color use and blogs obsessively chronicling the evolution of old TV shows. When OpenAI pitched ChatGPT's new Deep Research feature, it sounded like a dream companion, capable of autonomously conducting real-time web research and compiling detailed reports.

Deep Research started as an exclusive feature for ChatGPT Pro, the $200 per month subscription service, but is now available to those paying $20 monthly for ChatGPT Pro, though you only get 10 Deep Research queries a week at this level.

At its core, Deep Research is trying to do what I, and probably many others, already do when we have a question too big for a quick search. Usually, researching something means clicking through multiple sources, separating marketing fluff from useful insights, and resisting the urge to fall into unrelated Wikipedia rabbit holes. Deep Research claims to take all that work off your plate, handing you a neatly formatted report instead.

And ChatGPT isn’t the only AI trying to tackle this problem. Perplexity has a feature with the same name and broadly similar goals, as does Google Gemini and DeepSeek. Each system has its quirks, but ChatGPT’s Deep Research, at least in theory, aims for something more structured and thoughtful, a full-fledged report instead of a handful of search results.

I decided to put it to the test with three research challenges I thought might be fun. The reports were impressive, but sometimes a bit wandering. Imagine a brilliant but slightly absent-minded librarian who can find you an obscure 18th-century manuscript in under five minutes and occasionally hands you a 20-volume dissertation when you ask for a little beach reading.

Espresso

(Image credit: ChatGPT Screenshot)

I started with a request for help picking out an espresso maker. ChatGPT asked me a few follow-ups about price and other details, leading to this as the final prompt: "Provide a guide to setting up an at-home espresso station for beginners, including recommendations for budget-friendly espresso machines, grinders, and accessories, along with maintenance tips and common beginner mistakes."

A normal ChatGPT response is nearly instant, but Deep Research can take anywhere from five to thirty minutes to return results, depending on how complicated your request is. This took about ten minutes, but Deep Research returned with a very thorough espresso setup guide.

It covered everything from machine recommendations (the Breville Bambino, Gaggia Classic Pro, and a few others) to grinder options, the importance of fresh beans, and even a brief lesson on coffee extraction. It also included common beginner mistakes like using pre-ground coffee, not weighing shots properly, or ignoring the importance of a good milk frother.

There were quirks. Some of its product recommendations leaned toward pricey options when budget-friendly alternatives existed. But it was a helpful, enthusiastic guide, almost overwhelming in its thoroughness, but I like that.

Star search

(Image credit: ChatGPT Screenshot)

For my next request, I went with something I've been thinking about pursuing as a hobby locally, ending up with this prompt: "Provide an overview of beginner-friendly astronomy, including necessary equipment, recommended resources for learning, and local astronomy clubs or events in the Nyack, New York area."

Deep Research delivered an introductory guide to amateur astronomy covering telescopes, binoculars, and the naked eye. It gave some good recommendations for equipment, locations to go to, even websites and apps to plan my nights out, and celestial events to look out for. It also listed nearby astronomy groups and clubs I might join.

Despite being neutral in tone, there was a great deal of enthusiasm baked into the report that I found charming. The equipment suggestions made sense and didn't automatically go for the most expensive choices. Some of the event information it suggested was a little outdated, but that seemed more the fault of the websites that hadn't been updated.

Monster mash

(Image credit: ChatGPT Screenshot)

For my last test, I went with something a little less factual to see how the AI handled a report on something that's mainly based on rumors: "Investigate the origins and history of the ‘Lake George Monster’ legend, analyzing its first known mentions, how it evolved over time, and whether there is any real historical basis behind it."

This took the least time, only about five minutes. Maybe a fictional character limited to local legend takes less time to look up. Still, Deep Research returned with a surprisingly detailed breakdown of the Lake George Monster, a local legend in upstate New York. It traced the first major sightings back to the late 19th century, citing old newspaper clippings that described a mysterious serpent-like creature lurking beneath the lake. It explained how the legend was fueled by hoaxes, including a 20th-century prank involving a mechanical sea creature built by a local prankster.

It also attempted to analyze the plausibility of a real creature living in the lake, referencing known aquatic wildlife and scientific skepticism surrounding such myths.

As a report, this was definitely the most fun report to read. It was like a good local historian had written it, complete with source citations and fun anecdotes. It even mentioned other lake monsters, like Champ from Lake Champlain, drawing comparisons between regional folklore. It wasn’t flawless. While it did a great job recounting past sightings and debunked hoaxes, it struggled to clarify which sources were firsthand accounts versus modern retellings. But as a gripping read about a quirky bit of local culture, it was a delight.

Deep thoughts

Deep Research is one of the most ambitious AI tools I’ve tested, and I have to admit, I kind of love it. It feels like having reports from someone else who enjoys exploring through the weeds of research for hidden gems as much as I do. And I will say that, compared to regular ChatGPT answers, it felt like Deep Research made a real effort to find fresh, relevant information.

It's far from flawless, but when it works, it seems to really nail the assignment of making structured, easy-to-read reports that save time and effort. Instead of clicking through endless links, fact-checking articles, and wondering whether a recommendation is actually helpful or just a cleverly disguised ad, you get a report that at least tries to distill everything for you.

I wouldn't trust it to pick a car seat for a child, but I'd at least say it can give me a starting place for my own research. That's the thing about all AI research tools, of course. A librarian, a search engine, or an AI report are no substitute for putting in the work to find and organize information, they help streamline the process sometimes.

However, with the understanding that deep research is not, in fact, actual deep research, it can be a great way to get a head start.

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• Microsoft report warns of "AI Divide" across businesses
• Those who fail to engage or prepare could majorly lose out
• AI Agents could play a particularly key role, if they are implemented correctly

Businesses across the UK are facing a tough outlook if they fail to embrace the possibilities and potential benefits offered by AI tools, new research has claimed.

The findings of a new Microsoft study predict UK businesses are at risk of not being able to grow if they are on the wrong side of the "AI Divide" of those firms with (or without) a tangible AI strategy.

This outlook could put the opportunity to boost the UK’s economy and improve its public services at a widespread scale at risk, the report warns.

"AI Divide"

The report noted the "AI Divide" was shown by the fact that, while half of organizations have a clear AI strategy and the skills to implement it, a similar proportion do not.

More than half (54%) of business leaders admitted their organization lacks any formal AI strategy, and worryingly, fewer than half (45%) say their firms properly understand the AI skills their workforce needs to be successful today, with half (50%) also describing a gap between AI ambition and action.

This AI divide also extends to the workforce, with more than half (57%) of leaders reporting a widening gap in efficiency and productivity between workers who use AI and those that do not - and more than a third (36%) of leaders even saying those workers who frequently use AI would be more likely to be recognized or promoted.

AI agents are set to take on a prominent place at many firms, helping employees alleviate their workload and hopefully unlock greater productivity. Microsoft's study found almost three quarters (72%) of leaders expected AI agents to be fully integrated across their operations soon, with 21% anticipating this to be within the next 12 months, and 39% within two years.

“Agentic AI can play a key role in removing digital drudgery, giving workers the opportunity to spend more time on creative and value adding tasks," noted Darren Hardman, CEO, Microsoft UK.

"At Microsoft, we’re helping to build an AI economy, investing in digital skills and tackling the AI divide, all pre-requisites to driving AI fueled economic growth for the UK.”

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• Google Gemini has six new iPhone lock screen widgets
• Gemini also has new iPhone Control Center shortcuts
• The widgets include instant access to voice input, image recognition, and file analysis

Google just made it a whole lot easier to talk to Gemini on an iPhone, even before it's unlocked. The Gemini app now offers widgets for iPhone lock screens and Control Center, making it feel less like a third-party chatbot and more like a built-in feature of iOS.

The six new lock screen widgets provide instant access to a different Gemini function. Before this update, getting to Gemini meant unlocking your phone, finding and opening to the app, and then choosing what you wanted to do. While hardly an ordeal, it wasn't exactly seamless. Now, though, you can jump straight into the action with a single tap.

The “Type Prompt” widget lets you quickly fire off a question to Gemini without opening the full app. Need a quick answer on whether penguins have knees? Now, you can find out without disrupting whatever else you are doing. “Talk Live” is similarly handy, letting you dive straight into a real-time conversation with Gemini, skipping the previous extra step of launching the chat first.

(Image credit: iPhone Screenshots)

The “Open Mic” option is perfect for when your hands are full, but you suddenly remember you need to set a reminder, schedule a meeting, or ask Gemini to draft an email. If you’re the kind of person who frequently thinks of to-do list items at the worst possible times, this could save you from the familiar cycle of “I’ll remember that later” and then, inevitably, forgetting.

There are also camera-based features that turn Gemini into an on-demand visual search engine. The “Use Camera” widget lets you snap a photo and ask questions about what’s in front of you, which is great for identifying mysterious ingredients in your fridge or confirming that the spider in your bathroom is probably harmless. The “Share Image” and “Share File” options let you upload existing media for Gemini to analyze, whether you want more information, some creative inspiration, or just someone (or something) to acknowledge your latest masterpiece.

If you'd rather make Gemini more invisible, you can set the shortcuts to the corner buttons where the flashlight and camera buttons usually reside. You can also make them part of Control Center, allowing you to swipe down in iOS to see them. Google seems eager to make Gemini feel more at home on your iPhone than Siri, frankly.

(Image credit: iPhone Screenshots) Gemini iPhone

It's also notable that Gemini's attempt to fit in on the iPhone comes as Apple is working to rework Siri for the new AI age. As that complete retooling hasn't arrived yet, Google might be trying to get iPhone users used to Gemini before Siri's AI makeover debuts.

It also sets the stage for a new kind of rivalry among AI assistants. Rather than being relegated to an app you visit when you remember it exists, AI is becoming a more immediate, everyday presence. With these new widgets, interacting with Gemini can be as habitual as checking notifications or adjusting brightness.

That’s a big leap from the days of virtual assistants feeling like novelties that you’d occasionally ask to tell you a joke before forgetting about them entirely.

For now, this update is a clear win for iPhone users who enjoy using Gemini. It makes the assistant faster, more accessible, and more seamlessly integrated into daily life. Whether this is the beginning of a full-scale AI assistant takeover remains to be seen, but it will certainly be harder to ignore if you add it to your lock screen.

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• Apple and Dassault Systèmes team up to launch Vision Pro app
• Enterprise manufacturers and home designers are both catered for
• “Two big brains” launched two big apps that require “no special skills”

Dassault Systèmes has partnered with Apple to try and bring its 3D product design, simulation and manufacturing software into a totally new era.

At the core of the announcement is the Dassault platform’s support for the Apple Vision Pro wearable device, allowing designers, engineers and businesses to interact with virtual twins in a more immersive and intuitive way.

Spatial computing powered by the Apple Vision Pro allows users to see and modify their models as if they were physically present in their surroundings.

Dassault Systèmes wants to put the ‘3D’ in 3D designing

At the company’s recent 3DEXPERIENCE WORLD event, Dassault’s Gian Paolo (GP) Bassi admitted existing CAD software, including its own, can be extremely limiting, forcing users to interact with a 3D model on a 2D screen.

GP explained the goal of the partnership was to give designers access to more of their senses when interacting with virtual twins - for example, by tapping into the headset’s cameras, sensors and tracking technology, engineers can walk around their virtual models, inspect them at a bigger scale and even simulate real-world interactions – ironing out one less physical step in the name of both efficiency and sustainability.

Despite piquing consumer interest, the Vision Pro’s high $3,500 price tag has landed it in the enterprise market. Using it in conjunction with CAD software highlights how augmented and mixed reality can be integrated into enterprise workflows. Armed with genuine use cases, that enthusiasm will continue and will hopefully pave the way for cheaper, consumer-destined headsets – something that Dassault Systèmes is also preparing for.

Bassi described the partnership as the “combination of two big brains,” adding: “Any product built with SOLIDWORKS can be experienced in a spatially enabled environment, with no special skills required.”

Some use cases already being explored include automotive designers being able to assess a full-scale digital prototype of a vehicle before manufacturing, helping them to improve aerodynamics and ergonomics, and medical professionals exploring anatomical models for educational purposes and pre-surgical planning.

“We’re thrilled to be collaborating with Dassault Systèmes to supercharge the 3DEXPERIENCE platform with spatial computing capabilities that will enable engineers and designers to effortlessly bring 3D designs to life in ways not previously possible,” added Mike Rockwell, VP for Vision Products Group at Apple.

The Vision Pro app is already being trialled by Porsche, indicating a potentially broader deployment across other Volkswagen Group brands including VW, Audi and Bentley. Dassault Systèmes is preparing to launch its 3DLive Vision Pro app to all platform users in the summer of 2025.

Coinciding with the enterprise-destined application, Dassault Systèmes has also launched HomeByMe Reality – a separate Vision Pro app tailored for interior design and real estate, allowing homeowners, designers and estate agents to virtually apply furniture and preview renovations. It’s available to try now and builds on the company’s existing HomeByMe app, available for iOS and iPadOS.

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• Samsung's latest OLED screen ecosystem concept wants to foster a seamless 'multiple screen experience'
• Power-efficient On-Cell Film (OCF) technology boosts brightness
• Integrated grip handle enhances portability

Samsung has introduced a concept that blends rugged portability with futuristic design - an 18.1-inch OLED portable monitor with a 4.5R folding radius, that transforms into a briefcase-like form with an integrated grip handle.

Showcased at MWC 2025, this foldable OLED panel features a QHD+ resolution of 2000 × 3664 pixels, offering a high pixel density of 184 PPI, though Samsung hasn't yet confirmed commercial availability.

Additionally, Samsung has focused on power efficiency by incorporating On-Cell Film (OCF) technology, which improves brightness while maintaining lower power consumption. This ensures that the display remains visible without significantly draining battery life, even in bright conditions.

Optimized for efficiency and durability

At the event, Samsung Display also introduced its “OLED Magic” theme, unveiling ultra-thin bezel OLED panels, high-performance QD-OLED monitors with refresh rates up to 500 Hz, and 240 Hz OLED panels for laptops.

Samsung suggests that its 'Seamless Color Studio' booth at MWC will showcase 'color consistency' across various-sized OLED screens.

Its latest display ecosystem hinges on facilitating a 'multiple screen experience', allowing for users to seamlessly switch from viewing content such as video, or a web browser. on one screen to another.

"Users can start watching a show on their smartphone and seamlessly transition to their TV or browse products on a laptop and complete the purchase on their smartphone," Samsung declared.

"This interconnected experience allows for a fluid, uninterrupted online journey across various devices, regardless of place."

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• I've never seen a mini PC this tiny - the GenMachine Zhi could moonlight as a mini NAS
• Its low price could be a game changer for many
• And it comes equipped with a powerful AMD Ryzen APU

Opting for an obscure hardware manufacturer can pay dividends if you’re looking to get the best bang for your buck - and then GenMachine Zhi certainly falls into that category.

To describe this mini PC as compact would be a gross understatement - it’s tiny, and capable of fitting into the palm of your hand. Better still, it comes equipped with an AMD Ryzen 3 5425U APU, meaning that it packs a mighty punch, as although this is a relatively obscure CPU, what it lacks in popular appeal it more than makes up for in performance, with the quad core, eight-threat chip able to reach speeds of up to 4.1Ghz.

Complemented by an AMD Vega 5 GPU - capable of speeds up to 1.5 MHz -and you have a device that will take up minimal space on a home office desk, and one that runs faster than an Intel 11th gen Core i7 - here’s everything you need to know about the GenMachine Zhi.

Under the hood the GenMachine Zhi

In terms of an operating system, the GenMachine Zhi runs on Windows 11, making it a great choice for Microsoft shop households. The device is compatible with Linux, however.

But the performance capabilities aren’t the only big appeal here, the port options make it a potential game-changer.

The GenMachine Zhi also includes four 2.5G Ethernet ports, making it a versatile bit of hardware that can moonlight as a NAS.

The mini PC can also be purchased in a range of versions. This includes three distinct options offering users 8GB, 16GB, or 32GB RAM. Similarly, storage capacity is fantastic and can be loaded with up to 2TB.

As mentioned, the port options are excellent, providing users with two USB-A 3.2 ports, two USB-C 3.2 ports, and a USB-C port for charging.

An HDMI 2.0 output port also adds to the appeal here, allowing users to connect a 4K monitor.

Other key features and accessories include:

• Wi-Fi 6 capabilities
• Bluetooth 5.2
• A 12V external power supply

All told, the GenMachine Zhi is a powerful bit of kit for professional and casual users - and the price is a huge talking point. You can find the mini PC on AliExpress for as little as $225 (£179).

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• Beelink ME mini features six M.2 slots, dual 2.5Gbps ports, and NAS support
• Offers 24TB storage, X86 processing, and private cloud functionality
• Supports virtual machines, cloud backups, and home theater applications

Beelink has introduced the ME series, a new range of private cloud storage-enabled network-attached storage (NAS) devices aimed at designed to help users manage their data efficiently while maintaining privacy.

Beelink says the first product in the series to be released will be the ME mini, a compact system running Windows.

The ME mini measures just 99 × 99.2 × 98.3 mm and weighs 730 grams, yet fits six M.2 SSD slots, each supporting up to 4TB for a total of 24TB, making it suitable for storing backups of sensitive data.

A tiny NAS with large storage capabilities

The ME mini features an all-solid-state storage system, eliminating mechanical noise even under full load. It also has a built-in power supply, removing the need for an external adapter.

Powered by an X86 processor and dual 2.5 Gbps Ethernet ports, the ME mini could be ideal for setting up virtual machines and cloud backups.

It includes a built-in NAS storage service, enabling seamless data exchange between mobile phones and computers over a local network.

The ME mini is expected to launch in late March, though pricing has yet to be announced. as have details surrounding the ME Pro and ME MAX.

Via TechPowerUp

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When I watched Netflix's The Electric State trailer, I immediately returned to the iconic sci-fi movie District 9. Especially when you watch the grainy TV part at the beginning, where humans are just disregarding robots and shoving them away in a sectioned area – it does raise questions about how we mistreat things we don't understand. While the District 9 aliens (or "prawns" as they were unaffectionately known) are different from the robots in The Electric State, the concept is frighteningly familiar. With that in mind, I'm really keen to see how Netflix adapts this story.

The trailer is full of action and heart, especially as one robot with an ominous smile (not their fault, the poor thing) seems to want to help a human. Again, there are parallels with how one alien and his child unexpectedly assist bureaucrat Wikus van de Merwe in District 9. Considering that it's one of my favorite movies of all time (can you tell?), I hope The Electric State is worth the hype, given how intrigued I am by the subject matter. If we're lucky, maybe we'll even add it to our best Netflix movies round-up.

Check out the trailer below.

What do we know about The Electric State?

(Image credit: Netflix)

The Electric State is the newest movie from the MCU's Russo Brothers, known for their work on the best Marvel movies such as Avengers: Infinity War and the follow-up Avengers: Endgame. Their latest project, The Electric State, is said to be loosely based on the comic of the same name by Simon Stålenhag. With that in mind, it's important to note it's not a direct adaptation, and there may be several differences in how they tell the story.

There's a huge cast attached to this movie, too, including Millie Bobby Brown, Chris Pratt, Ke Huy Quan, Woody Harrelson, Stanley Tucci, Anthony Mackie, and Brian Cox, so that's quite the ensemble.

When we first reacted to news of The Electric State, we noted that nobody's sure what to make of it, and there's plenty of discussion about the movie online. We'll just have to wait and see before we can give our final verdict!

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• Maserati MC20 is equipped with numerous Lidar, cameras and sensors
• Demonstration vehicle hit almost 200mph at the Kennedy Space Center
• A second autonomous MC20 Cielo took to the streets of Florida

Maserati has just set a new autonomous speed record at the Kennedy Space Center in Florida, as its drop-dead gorgeous MC20 supercar hit 197.7mph without a human behind the wheel.

The initiative is a partnership between the Indy Autonomous Challenge (IAC) and Politecnico di Milano, Italy’s largest scientific-technological university, with the pair aiming to test the very limits of hardware, computing power and artificial intelligence where it relates to advanced levels of autonomous driving.

The clever crew at the Politecnico di Milano, which forms part of a team that specializes solely in autonomous driving at the university, managed to hit 192.8mph in its IAC AV-21 race car in 2022, but returned to one of the world’s longest runways at 15,000 feet (2.8 miles) to attempt to beat it using Maserati’s 630hp street car.

According to the team, pushing the MC20 to almost 200mph without a driver behind the wheel “demonstrates the robustness and reliability of the algorithms developed for autonomous driving," Scientific Director of the project Professor Sergio Matteo Savaresi explained.

To further demonstrate how far the team has come in terms of autonomous driving abilities, the team also brought along its convertible Maserati MC20 Cielo, which had been specially fitted with Lidar, camera and sensor technology.

This drop-top model managed to complete around 60km (around 37 miles) of the famously tricky 1000 Miglia road race in Italy two years ago without a driver behind the wheel.

It went on to parade the streets of the south easternmost US State during the 1000 Miglia Experience Florida to showcase "the excellence of Italian research" according to the team.

That said, the images reveal that a human had to be in the driver's seat. Perhaps the organizers were worried about Tesla owners getting jealous.

From the racetrack to the streets

(Image credit: Maserati)

Far from simply being an impressive autonomous speed record (although not an officially sanctioned Guinness World Record), the Kennedy Space Center achievement helps push AI-driver software and robotics hardware to the very limits.

Paul Mitchell, CEO of Indy Autonomous Challenge and Aidoptation BV claims that by transitioning to a streetcar, rather than a purpose-built racing machine of previous record attempts, it helps “transition the learnings of autonomous racing to enable safe, secure, sustainable, high-speed autonomous mobility on highways”.

At speeds of almost 200mph, software reaction times have to be razor sharp and, perhaps more importantly, super reliable.

The team claims that if it can create a system that safely navigates these sort of highly illegal speeds, it can translate some of the findings to help improve low-speed urban mobility.

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• YouTube might be planning a big redesign of its TV app's homepage
• The new layout will reportedly incorporate more streaming services
• Creators will be able to display their content in episodes and seasons

YouTube has been teasing some big changes to its TV app, and it looks like one of these new features might see the addition of more on-demand streaming content from the likes of third-party services such as Netflix.

That's according to a new report from The Information as seen by The Verge, which reveals that a new redesign of the homepage is expected to be launched in the "next few months."

The update is expected to make it easier to see which of the best streaming services you're subscribed to through the YouTube TV app, which you can access via Primetime Channels. The big difference that the change will make is instead of hiding away this content in the 'Movies and TV' tab, it will reportedly include it on the homepage alongside your favorite creators' videos.

That's similar to the interfaces of apps like Apple TV and Prime Video, which act as hubs for all your subscriptions. However, not every service is available via Primetime Channel, which varies depending on your region.

For example, US users can access Max on YouTube's Primetime Channels, while UK and Australian users can't. This is expected to change as part of the redesign's shift, though, as YouTube reportedly told The Information that it stopped offering new services due to its struggle to integrate paid content into the app.

YouTube's streaming dominance

YouTube has been the most popular streaming platform for a while now – it had an 11.1% majority share of TV and streaming viewership in the US in December 2024, according to a report by Neilsen.

That's not surprising when you consider that watching YouTube on TVs has become the preferred device to access the video sharing platform compared to phones and laptops, making it even more embedded into our home cinemas.

As part of YouTube's broader plans to make its app more like your favorite streamer, the service has also previously said that it will give its creators a new feature that lets them format their content into episodes and seasons – just like one of the best Netflix shows.

That change was announced in September last year and is expected to be further expanded with plans to add functionality that will let you automatically preview a movie or show on the homepage when scrolling over it – just like you would see on the homepage of Netflix.

Kurt Wilms, YouTube’s senior director of product management, told The Information that the service envisions these new automatic previews blending content from third-party apps with creators' videos.

What the new YouTube TV app will look like and whether these new features will become available is not yet definite, of course, but we'll be keeping an eye out for any updates and will report back as soon as we have more news from YouTube on the changes it plans to launch.

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Right now, Apple’s iPad lineup is a strong four, two of which come in two sizes. Just this morning, Apple ushered in the next generation of the iPad Air and the entry-level iPad, which is now dubbed iPad (A16).

Even with the gorgeous Dynamic OLED display on the iPad Pro, the bite-sized build of the iPad mini, and the sheer value of the iPad Air – now with M3 – the entry-level iPad is still a perfect balancing act.

On paper, the most recent upgrade seems minimal – it’s a jump from the A14 Bionic chip to the A16, which Apple promises delivers up to 50% better performance and a doubling of the internal storage from 64GB to 128GB. Both of these keep this iPad ticking, but what it doesn’t bring is support for Apple Intelligence.

It's kind of a surprise, yes, but it also shows that Apple isn’t necessarily on a quest to bring it to every device, or at least not at this time. Further, I think it’s a sign of what this entry-level iPad is all about and a testament to the fact that the rest of the hardware here makes it a pretty perfect package.

High-end looks with likely stellar performance

(Image credit: Apple)

There is no knocking the iPad (A16) for its looks – it still comes in some fun colors and boasts an iPad Air-esque design with rounded edges and a healthy bezel around the now-called 11-inch Liquid Retina display that’s still 10.86 inches. It looks modern in every sense of the word, even though it’s stuck in the design language that was used when it was the tenth Generation.

This was also the first iPad with a front-facing camera on the landscape side and Apple’s still sticking with that placement on everything but the iPad mini. You also get an easy way of unlocking and purchasing with Touch ID built into the power button, and there is a camera on the back should you want to take photos with your iPad.

The Apple Pencil situation here is still a little complicated as the iPad (A16) has a USB-C port but supports the first-generation Apple Pencil even though it has a Lightning port built-in. To charge it, you’ll need an adapter and a USB-C to USB-C cable – it’s incredibly clunky, but it works.

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You can also opt for the Apple Pencil with USB-C, which you can slide the top over to expose the USB-C port to plug it in for charge. That’s equally clunky. It does magnetically attach to the side of the iPad (A16) for safe-keeping, but that won’t charge it.

Once you figure out how to keep it charged, it works like an Apple Pencil should – giving you an experience that’s close to writing with pen to paper or drawing on a surface. Scribble is supported here, letting you write a message, and the iPad automatically translates it to text. It was kind of an Apple Intelligence-like feature before that was dubbed the name for Apple’s suite of AI functionality.

The A16 chip here should be plenty powerful for all the major tasks one would want to use an iPad for, like:

• Following a recipe
• Browsing the web
• Playing a game from the App Store or Apple Arcade
• FaceTiming with friends or family
• Reading a book
• Listening to Bruce Springsteen's Born to Run
• Scrolling through photos or editing some
• Typing a story … maybe even this one?
• Taking notes with an Apple Pencil
• Endless other things
• Streaming movies and TV shows

You get the point, but the vast majority of things that one can do on an iPad are all possible here (with the notable exception of Apple Intelligence). No, it might not replace a high-performance workflow that you’d need an iPad Air or iPad Pro for, but for the basics and even some more fun processes, the iPad (A16) is more than capable.

After all, to deserve the name of iPad, it needs to be an iPad. But when my friends or family ask me which one is best, if they aren’t doing anything crazy and simply want an iPad to join the bandwagon, as a secondary device, or as one for streaming content, this entry-level iPad checks off the boxes.

It has the better Magic Keyboard

(Image credit: Apple)

If you want to use the iPad for email, spreadsheets, or other productivity tasks, it also works with my favorite Apple keyboard accessory. The Magic Keyboard Folio has two parts: one that magnetically snaps to the back with a kickstand that you can prop up at various heights, and a keyboard on the front complete with function keys and a good-sized trackpad.

When you don’t need the keyboard, that front piece can snap to the back with the keys facing inward so you don’t accidentally have the keys pressed. It’s great and super functional; it’s not the cheapest, though, at $249.

The previous tenth-generation iPad is our pick for the ‘Best iPad’ overall, and on our Best Tablets page, is the best for most. I expect that this iPad (A16) will quickly shuffle into that spot with better performance after we go hands-on, even without Apple Intelligence.

So if you can live without Image Playground, summarized notifications, or writing tools and want an iPad for drawing, browsing the web, FaceTiming with friends or family, gaming, and streaming your favorite content, don’t dismiss the entry-level iPad … it’s pretty awesome. And I can’t wait to test one out, hopefully in Yellow or Pink.

Apple's taking preorders now for the iPad (A16) with a starting price of $349 / £329, and it will formally launch on March 12, 2025.

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• Analysts says Microsoft has cancelled leases with at least two data center operators
• It could be reassessing AI infrastructure investments amid potential oversupply
• Despite adjustments, Microsoft maintains its $80 billion AI commitment

Microsoft may not be quite as all-in on investing in AI infrastructure as recent reports have suggested. MarketWatch reported on a research note written by TD Cowen analysts which claims Microsoft has cancelled leases in the US with at least two private data center operators.

The leases totaled “a couple hundred megawatts” and Microsoft is also is not converting “so-called statements of qualifications into leases”. The same analysts also report that Microsoft has moved a portion of planned international spending to the US.

This is despite a recent interview with Microsoft Chairman and Chief Executive Satya Nadella, who said AI supply and demand will have to meet and that tech firms will need to exponentially invest to make this happen.

Raising broader questions

“When coupled with our prior channel checks, it points to a potential oversupply position for Microsoft,” said lead analyst Michael Elias. The group believes the shift is linked to OpenAI which Microsoft has close ties to.

“Consider this: Microsoft was the most active lessee of capacity in 2023 and 1H24, at which time it was procuring capacity relative to a capacity forecast that contemplated incremental OpenAI workloads. However, as we believe is indicated by its decision to pause construction on a data center in Wisconsin - which our prior channel checks indicated was to support OpenAI - there is capacity that it has likely procured, particularly in areas where capacity is not fungible to cloud, where the company may have excess data center capacity relative to its new forecast,” the analysts said.

Writing about the news, Bloomberg said, "A potential lease pullback by Microsoft raises broader questions about whether the company - one of the frontrunners among Big Tech in AI - is growing cautious about the outlook for overall demand. The company has said it expects to spend $80 billion this fiscal year on AI data centers, and on a late January earnings call, Chief Executive Officer Satya Nadella said Microsoft has to sustain spending to meet “exponentially more demand.”

“While we may strategically pace or adjust our infrastructure in some areas, we will continue to grow strongly in all regions," a Microsoft spokesperson told Bloomberg. "Our plans to spend over $80 billion on infrastructure this FY remains on track as we continue to grow at a record pace to meet customer demand.”

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• Pixel feature drop for March adds several new features to Google's tech
• Scam Detection is coming to Google Pixel 9 phones in the US
• Multimodal Gemini Live tools are coming to the Pixel 6 and newer phones

The latest Pixel feature drop update for March and Android update are bringing some impressive new tools to your Google Pixel phone and Watch devices, including improved scam protection and US FDA-cleared Loss of Pulse Detection.

Starting with the major new Pixel phone features, the headliner is AI-powered scam protection. Using on-device AI this tool will apparently alert you in real time if the person you’re calling or text messaging is using language that's common among scammers, and everyone with a Google Pixel 6 or later can access the tool for texts in the UK, US and Canada; meanwhile Google Pixel 9 phones in the US can also use the call protection tool. Note, however (as Google itself warns), that scammers can mix up their tactics, and so the AI won’t be 100% effective, so don’t over-rely on this protection and drop your guard.

Continuing with the safety trend, Google’s Find My Device service is getting a new live location-sharing tool in-app, so you can easily update your friends and family on your whereabouts – either to let them know you got home safe, or to help coordinate a meetup. The app will also regularly remind you that you’re sharing your location, and with who, so you can remember to turn it off when it’s not needed. This feature isn’t a Pixel-exclusive – it’s coming to all Find my Device-compatible Android phones.

Beyond safety, the Pixel drop also includes new creative tools. New text-to-image tools in Pixel studio will let you create stickers and images of people and scenes on the Google Pixel 9, and if you love to stream your activities on YouTube, TikTok and other platforms from your phone, there's a new multi-cam feature – using a Pixel 9 phone as the primary device you can sync with a Pixel 6 or later Google phone, or a GoPro Hero10 Black or newer camera, to stream with a multi-cam setup.

Three features for the Pixel Watch 3

The (Image credit: Future)

Google Pixel Watch 3 users are also getting some nifty tools, starting with its Loss of Pulse Detection feature, which is launching in the US after being cleared by the Food and Drug Administration. This feature can detect when you experience a loss of pulse (perhaps due to cardiac arrest, circulatory failure, or an overdose or poisoning) and will contact emergency services, and it’ll start rolling out to Watch 3 users at the end of the month.

Pixel Watch 3 users can also now take advantage of new on-device menstrual tracking. This can help you monitor your period, and perhaps even predict when you might get your next one, all from your wrist.

Finally, all Pixel Watch devices are now set to offer improved step tracking precision, as the devices are now supposedly better at detecting when your walking pattern deviates – being able to tell the difference between someone jogging, pushing a shopping cart, or hiking with poles.

There are also a few more minor improvements coming to Google Pixel and Android devices, which you can check out in full on the official Google website, but the above features are the ones we’re most excited to try out – scam protection seems especially useful, and I’m excited to see how well it works.

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• A travel tracking software firm has suffered a data breach
• The researcher discovered 10 open Lost & Found databases
• Over 800,000 Lost & Found customers could be exposed

A dataset containing 820,750 records totaling 122GB has been discovered online, most likely belonging to German tracking software firm Lost & Found, which primarily services the aviation industry.

As revealed by security researcher, Jeremiah Fowler, this was in an unprotected and publicly exposed dataset of 14 databases in total, 10 that were accessible and 4 that were restricted. Within these, the researcher found shipping labels, lost item reports, and screenshots, ranging from personal electronics, wallets, bags, medical devices, and other personal effects travelers often take on flights.

That’s not all though, as a number of personally identifiable documents were also included, such as passport scans, drivers licenses, employment documents, and more. The researcher suggests these could either be lost and uploaded by airport staff, or used to file claims and identify ownership of lost documents.

Customers at risk

Once a disclosure notice was sent, the databases were restricted “within hours”. It’s not yet known whether the databases were owned and managed directly by Lost & Found, or if a third-party contractor had control. It’s also unclear how long the dataset was exposed, or if threat actors accessed the information.

Since there is a possibility that the information was accessed by threat actors, this leaves anyone exposed in the breach at risk. Since IDs and passports were included, this means the primary risk is identity theft, as criminals could use these scans to apply for loans, credit cards, or bank accounts.

To protect against this, anyone concerned they may be affected should closely monitor their account, transactions, and statements, and immediately report any suspicious activity to their bank.

Alongside this, be vigilant against any social engineering attacks by carefully inspecting any unexpected communications you receive from unknown sources - especially those prompting action.

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• Microsoft has patched a loophole in Windows Copilot
• Copilot will no longer inadvertently aid in unlicensed OS copies
• The company has yet to tackle the wider issue available online

Microsoft has updated Windows Copilot to prevent the AI-powered assistant from recommending third-party tools to aid in the piracy of its popular operating system.

Previously, it's claimed that Windows Copilot was not only recommending the use of third-party tools, but was also outlining ways to bypass Microsoft's licensing system where other AI programs, such as ChatGPT, were not generating activation keys for the operating system.

When testing Windows Copilot for workarounds, it will now completely reject any prompts for activation codes, third-party tools, and how-to information. Additionally, it stresses how unauthorized copies of the operating system are illegal, violate the terms of service, and recommends contacting official Microsoft support to get a legitimate copy.

Despite the Windows Copilot loophole getting plugged, it goes to show Microsoft's commitment to refining its AI assistant, which has been a core component of the operating system as laptops (and newer desktop processors) have utilized dedicated NPUs to better aid AI workloads. However, the technology is still in its infancy, which is causing some embarrassing issues, such as this one.

With that all said, many methods of unlicensed and authorized Windows 11 activations are still available online, they are just not being actively promoted by Microsoft's own AI assistant. It's about getting things under control as AI-generated content becomes more widely adopted.

A step forward for policing AI content

One of the major privacy concerns around AI has been the unregulated and unauthorized way that it can scrape and produce content for the end user. With Microsoft's Copilot, it was previously (inadvertently) being tricked into showing users ways of bypassing Windows licensing protocols. While it never directly gave out working activation codes, it was making things as easy as possible in other respects. Certainly not something Microsoft would like.

There have been discussions around updates, upgrading and alleged downgrading of Copilot since it first emerged in November 2023. In October 2024, it received a substantial visual makeover, and was able to interact with online and local (on the device) content.

It's a bid to make Copilot stand out against the bulk of its AI-powered rivals such as X's Grok, Google Gemini, and Open AI's ChatGPT. While some of its alternatives may help users bypass Microsoft's security measures, at least it won't be happening on its own platform anymore.

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• Wireless direct-to-phone design with 100ft range
• Four available polar patterns for different scenarios
• Available now from $299 / £289

Creators looking for better sound for their vlogs and podcasts have no shortage of wireless microphones to choose from – but Shure’s latest mic takes things in a different direction to the wearable likes of the DJI Mic Mini and Saramonic Ultra.

Unveiled today, the Shure MoveMic 88+ is a wireless mic designed to be mounted on tripods or microphone stands rather than clipped to your shirt collar or lapel. It's designed for video professionals or journalists who need a small, lightweight mic with enough flexibility to be used for everything from nature documentaries to short films and two-header interviews – it can link up directly with the user’s smartphone over a range of up to 100 feet.

With the user running the Shure Motiv Video app, they’ll be able to select one of four polar patterns – stereo, mono cardioid, mono bi-directional or raw mid-side – and fine-tune the mic’s audio performance by adjusting gain, EQ, noise reduction or engaging a high pass filter. Recordings can be stored directly on the phone, or live streamed to platforms including YouTube and Facebook.

The MoveMic receiver (on the left) is an optional accessory that expands the MoveMic 88+'s compatibility (Image credit: Shure)

The direct-to-phone wireless link keeps things simple while offering superior audio performance to a phone’s on-board microphone, particularly in environments with wind or traffic noise. Shure also suggests the MoveMic 88+’s size and range could prove invaluable for remote recording scenarios, giving the example of clearly capturing the sounds from a bird’s nest while sitting at a distance; the mic’s discreet size means it could be placed close to the nest without disturbing its inhabitants.

The MoveMic 88+ has a built-in rechargeable battery delivering up to eight hours of use, topping up via USB-C when required, and comes supplied with two mounting clips – one for camera cold shoes and another for 5/8” mic stands. It can also work when handheld directly, according to Shure – but does seem a little small to hold comfortably.

The Shure MoveMic 88+ can be purchased solo for $299 / £289, or in a bundle with the MoveMic Receiver ($449 / £439), which allows it to connect to cameras, computers and smartphones (for third-party app recording) via USB-C or 3.5mm cable.

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• Apple has released new Apple Watch bands for spring 2025
• There are new Sport Loop and Sport Band shades
• There are also new Solo and Braided Solo Loop options, and impressive new Hermès options

Alongside its new M3 iPad Air and A16 iPad, Apple has quietly unveiled a series of new shades for many of its best Apple Watch bands just in time for spring (if you're in the US or UK that is).

Apple continually updates its Apple Watch band palette with various shades and colors throughout the seasons, and we've now got our first look at the Spring 2025 collection.

First up, there are new Sport Loops in Periwinkle blue (a quiet nod to Guy Ritchie fans) and Sage green, both priced at $49.

For sport users, there's a new Aquamarine green Sport Band, as well as a Tangerine orange and a Periwinkle option, again priced at $49. Sadly, there are no new Nike options, but the Solo Loop is available in three new colors including the aforementioned Periwinkle, Northern Lights (a fluorescent green), and pink Peony (club, I'm gonna keep on danci... sorry).

More Apple Watch bands for 2025

(Image credit: Apple)

Also new for 2025 are Tangerine, Aquamarine, and Peony braided Solo Loop bands priced at $99.

Finally, for the premium buyers, you can now get a new Hermès band for the best Apple Watch, the Apple Watch Ultra 2, in a new Bleu Hydra En Mer, which costs a cool $449 – that's more than the Apple Watch Series 10.

There's also a new Hermès Toile H Single Tour in black, and a new Hermès Twill Jump Attelage Single Tour in three new shades, all priced at $349. New colors are also available for the Hermès Kilim Single Tour and Hermès Bridon Single Tour and Attelage Double Tour ranges as well.

You can see every new available color, size, and band on Apple's website.

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• The Vado SL 2 has just launched
• It's Specialized's latest mainstream electric bike
• It features a 520W battery and up to five hours of ride time

Specialized has today unveiled the brand new alloy version of its Vado SL 2 e-bike, which the company says offers an unprecedented combination of power, speed, and range in its weight class.

We recently reviewed the exceptional Vado SL 2 Carbon and loved its excellent power, quiet ride, and smooth handling. However, it costs $6,500 USD, £5,500 UK / $9,900 AUS, an eye-watering amount even for the best e-bikes on the market.

Thankfully, Specialized now offers an alloy version of Vado SL 2 at a slightly more palatable £3,500/£3,800, with US and AUS pricing to be confirmed. That'll get you the new Vado SL 2 Alloy 4.0 or 5.0 respectively. So what do you get in the 4.0 and 5.0 models over the more expensive carbon option?

Specialized's Vado SL 2 alloy: on paper

The new 5.0 and 4.0 models are an ultra-light alloy version of the aforementioned 6.0 carbon. They're very similar in spec (hence the closeness in price). Both are available in either equipped or step-through configurations. They're both powered by Specialized's SL 1.2 motor, which generates 50nm of power and is good for 25kmh. Both have a 520wh integrated battery rated for up to five hours of ride time (e-bike range caveats notwithstanding), and both feature the Mastermind H3 with handlebar remote.

The 4.0 and 5.0 both feature aluminum frame and fork designs, as well as Future Shock 3.1 suspension. They also come with the same tires and wheels, and the same side and rear rack configurations for carrying luggage.

The 5.0 features Tektro TKD-148 brakes, as opposed to Tektro HD-R285 brakes on the 4.0. The 4.0 only has 10-speed gearing versus 11-speed on the 5.0, and the lights on the 5.0 are also slightly better.

The big miss over the more expensive carbon version is obviously the carbon frame. The motor also isn't as good, and the suspension and brakes are also uprated on the carbon model we've already reviewed.

The 4.0 and 5.0 don't feature a removable battery, just like the carbon model, which may be a turnoff for some. Otherwise, this looks like Specialized's best option yet for those who don't want to fork out on its wildly expensive Carbon model.

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• The Beogram 4000c Saint Laurent Rive Droite Edition costs about $35,000
• Each turntable is a 1970s original, painstakingly restored
• A very limited edition: just 10 pieces

The B&O Beogram 4000 Series turntable is a genuine design classic, a '70s turntable that found a place not just in discerning music fans' homes, but in art museums too. And now it's back in a strictly limited edition that you probably can't afford, but won't be able to tear your eyes away from.

The Beogram 4000c Saint Laurent Rive Droite Edition, to give it its full name, has been created under the watchful eye of Saint Laurent's creative director Anthony Vaccarello.

This isn't the first time Vaccarello has reimagined a classic: for example last year he redesigned the Fender Stratocaster electric guitar and accompanying amplifier. But clearly he was just warming up, because this B&O turntable is staggeringly beautiful.

This isn't the first time the Beogram 4000c has been reborn: B&O restored and tweaked 95 of them in 2020 and offered them for $11,000 / £9,000 / about AU$17,000. But this new edition is even more select, and a bit more expensive too.

(Image credit: Bang & Olufsen) The Beogram 4000c Saint Laurent Rive Droite Edition: exquisite and inevitably, expensive

As our colleagues at Wallpaper explain, each turntable is a fully restored and numbered original with silver-plated metal and a Ziricote wood base. Each original turntable is disassembled by B&O in Denmark, and every single part is then cleaned – and by "every" we do mean "every", right down to the tiniest screws – and if necessary, replaced.

The hand-crafted wooden frame is new, as are the new finishes on the zen-like controls aside the platter, and each turntable gets a new cartridge and a new pre-amp too.

The wooden case is made from solid ziricote, which is a dark hardwood; it has "a particularly distinctive grain, creating an object of fascination even when the turntable is not in use," Wallpaper says.

I think it looks absolutely stunning. We're used to seeing a lot of retro-styled turntables or retro-inspired ones, but it's quite something to see a true original come back and show everyone how it's done.

The Beogram 4000c Saint Laurent Rive Droite Edition is available now from Saint Laurent Rive Droite in Paris and LA, and online from both YSL and Bang & Olufsen.

It's yours for €30,000 (about $35,000 / £30,000 / AU$50,845) but if you want one you'd better be quick: there are just 10 turntables in this release.

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