Feed aggregator

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

You might also like...

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

You might also like...

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

They're demanding a deal between Israel and Hamas to release all the remaining hostages, and also demonstrating against government attempts to weaken the judiciary.

(Image credit: Ohad Zwigenberg)

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

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

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

Increasing AI investment

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

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

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

How is AI transforming CX?

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

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

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

Powering smarter conversations

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

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

The role of AI vendors and partnerships

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

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

Overcoming challenges to AI integration

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

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

The future of AI in CX

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

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

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

We've featured the best CRM for small business.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Preferred partner (What does this mean?)View Deal

Names, emails, and plaintext passwords

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

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

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

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

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

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

Via Cybernews

You might also like

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Green with envy

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

You might also like

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

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

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

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

Step 1: Assess your current IT landscape

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

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

Step 2: Think innovation, not maintenance

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

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

Step 3: Focus on AI-optimized infrastructure

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

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

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

Step 4: Mitigate security and compliance risks

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

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

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

Step 5: Champion sustainability and a circular approach to IT

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

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

Step 6: Create a strategy and act early

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

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

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

The time to act is now

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

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

We've featured the best business computer.

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

Looking for a different day?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

• L

• N

• N

• T

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

Quordle today (game #1157) - the answers

(Image credit: Merriam-Webster)

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

• LEFTY
• NOOSE
• NOISE
• TRIAD

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

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

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

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

Daily Sequence today (game #1157) - the answers

(Image credit: Merriam-Webster)

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

• SLYLY
• DEFER
• SWEET
• CRAZE

Quordle answers: The past 20

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

Looking for a different day?

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

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

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

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

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

(Image credit: New York Times)

Today's NYT Connections words are…

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

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

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

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

Need more clues?

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

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

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

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

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

NYT Connections today (game #654) - the answers

(Image credit: New York Times)

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

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

• My rating: Moderate
• My score: 1 mistake

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

Then I saw KINDS OF DIGITAL STORAGE.

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

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

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

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

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

What is NYT Connections?

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

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

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

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

Looking for a different day?

A new NYT Strands puzzle appears at midnight each day for your time zone – which means that some people are always playing 'today's game' while others are playing 'yesterday's'. If you're looking for Tuesday's puzzle instead then click here: NYT Strands hints and answers for Tuesday, March 25 (game #387).

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

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

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

NYT Strands today (game #388) - hint #1 - today's theme What is the theme of today's NYT Strands?

• Today's NYT Strands theme is… In the circle of life

NYT Strands today (game #388) - hint #2 - clue words

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

• ZANY
• TINGLE
• GROT
• TONE
• BARE
• WAGON

NYT Strands today (game #388) - hint #3 - spangram letters How many letters are in today's spangram?

• Spangram has 8 letters

NYT Strands today (game #388) - hint #4 - spangram position What are two sides of the board that today's spangram touches?

First side: left, 5th row

Last side: right, 2nd row

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

NYT Strands today (game #388) - the answers

(Image credit: New York Times)

The answers to today's Strands, game #388, are…

• ZEBRA
• MEERKAT
• WARTHOG
• HYENA
• ELEPHANT
• HORNBILL
• SPANGRAM: LION KING

• My rating: Easy
• My score: 1 hint

Even though it was pretty obvious that today’s Strands was for The LION KING, I still snagged Lion as a hint word – not that any hints were needed in a straightforward word search.

I’d wager that ZEBRA was almost everyone’s first word, not that they feature much in the story, acting as extras and the butt of a couple of jokes.

Although it’s about the animal kingdom, including a flatulent WARTHOG, this classic tale of sibling rivalry is very Shakespearian. Indeed, screenwriter Irene Mecchi said that the idea for the movie was pitched to her as Bamblet – Hamlet set in the jungle with a bit of Bambi thrown in. Well, I suppose it's better than Disney's idea for a love story set in a farmyard – Rameo and Eweliet anyone?

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

Yesterday's NYT Strands answers (Tuesday, 25 March, game #387)

• SLIDERS
• POPPERS
• WINGS
• FONDUE
• NACHOS
• CALAMARI
• SPANGRAM: APPETIZER

What is NYT Strands?

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

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

The company has unveiled two new models in its Canvas TV range for bigger living spaces.

• Nvidia's Project G-Assist is now live in the Nvidia App
• It uses text and voice prompts to optimize games, control hardware, and provide diagnostics
• The tool is still experimental, with functionality being updated often

Nvidia's nifty Project G-Assist is now available inside the official Nvidia App, bringing the AI-powered assistant to everyone, a year after the tech demo first surfaced. Yes, it's for real this time, unlike the 2017 April's Fools video where it was a USB device shaped like a GTX 1080.

Nvidia's G-Assist can be used by all RTX graphics card users, and it utilizes those GPUs' Tensor Cores (AI cores) to perform a variety of services, such as optimizing game and system settings, in-depth in-game diagnostics reporting, and answering questions.

Similar to some of the best AI tools, such as Google Gemini and ChatGPT, Nvidia's G-Assist can answer voice and text prompts in the form of questions; you ask it to do things for you relating to gaming, and it tries to execute your commands.

Nvidia's official video goes through what's possible with its new assistant and how it interacts with compatible hardware and software. In the clip, we see a text prompt inputted asking how Frame Generation works, which supplies a succinct answer. Similarly, it's asked by voice if the GPU's drivers are up to date, and G-Assist checks the current driver installed. It works with a small language model built on a bespoke API.

Arguably more interesting than its diagnostics and optimization capabilities is how G-Assist interacts with the hardware. With support for third-party APIs from companies like Logitech, Corsair, and MSI, it's able to control not only supported lighting through a text or voice prompt but also the speed/performance of your fans.

We later see how Nvidia G-Assist optimizes Rust for the "best image quality", which happens near-instantly and then boots the game up with a voice command. Clearly, the experimental tech is in its infancy now, but we could see wider use as Team Green deepens its feature set and compatibility with more hardware and software in the future.

A nifty new use for AI in gaming

While Nvidia's Project G-Assist doesn't appear to be anything truly revolutionary, the tech does offer a few handy shortcuts for optimizing your games (and system hardware) with only a couple of lines of text or voice commands. It's obviously not going to work flawlessly with every game or piece of hardware available, but it's an interesting new way to streamline quality-of-life features.

Nvidia's new app is leagues better than the previous GeForce Experience (which we were thrilled to see). Anything to make installing drivers, optimizing games straight from the launcher, and having your hardware tick over efficiently is right by us. As an experimental feature, you can mess around with risk-free. It's worth seeing what it can do, even if its functionality may seem largely inconsequential in the grand scheme of things.

You may also like...

• MSI just teased a 24GB RTX 5080
• Windows 11 24H2 is a massive failure
• I tried Grok's new AI image editing features

This Trump administration official was a key figure in the dismantling of the United States Agency for International Development — and will help set the agenda for the future of foreign aid.

(Image credit: Kent Nishimura/)

• Zotac has hiked pricing with RTX 5090 models on its US online store
• Two of those, including the top-end board, now cost $500 more
• This follows similar moves by Asus and MSI with the Blackwell flagship on their own online stores

Zotac is the latest third-party graphics card maker which currently seems to be inflating the price of Nvidia’s Blackwell flagship GPU.

VideoCardz noticed a Reddit post (see below) which flagged up that over at the Zotac store in the US, its RTX 5090 models just became a lot more expensive – and these GPUs are certainly nowhere near the official MSRP.

Zotac 5090 Amp Extreme is now $3000 and the 5090 Solid OC is now $2700 from r/nvidia

As you can see, the Zotac RTX 5090 Amp Extreme now tips the scales at a wallet-worrying $3,000, and even the lesser RTX 5090 Solid OC model is a weighty, and equally concerning, $2,700 drain on your bank balance.

This represents a fresh increase of $500 on the price tag in the case of both graphics cards, according to the info divulged on Reddit here.

Zotac is one of the board manufacturers that sells their products directly from their own online store, with Asus and MSI also being in this club. Unfortunately, all three of these companies have hiked pricing, particularly with the RTX 5090 (which Asus recently inflated by a hefty amount, so its top-end GPU is even more expensive than Zotac’s Amp Extreme).

(Image credit: ShutterStock) Analysis: Hiking pains

You could argue that price is always going to be related to supply and demand, and if it isn’t crystal clear enough now, the supply of Blackwell GPUs has thus far been pretty terrible, and demand has way, way outstripped it. Even the demand for the expensive RTX 5090, with the flagship being hit with some of the most ridiculous price hikes that we’ve witnessed so far in this new generation of Nvidia graphics cards.

Further arguments, as VideoCardz points out, can also be piled on here, such as the import tariffs courtesy of Trump. But ultimately, what we’re seeing with RTX 5090 pricing goes beyond the pale really.

In this case, Zotac’s Solid OC is technically the entry-level RTX 5090 (it’s actually a step up, being the overclocked version, although it only has a very modest overclock applied – and apparently the base version isn’t listed on the US store any longer, anyway). The Solid OC really shouldn’t be much above Nvidia’s MSRP, which is $1,999 (the price of the Founders Edition), but this GPU is now a whopping 35% more expensive.

(I should make it clear that the Zotac store in the US is down right now, as I write this, for maintenance apparently. Could that mean pricing is being adjusted again, after these reports have popped up? Possibly, and I’ll keep an eye on that.)

At any rate, the other argument I’ve seen is: well, the RTX 5090 models are all out of stock anyway, so who cares what the price is – it’s kind of irrelevant. And while that’s certainly true, this is a short-term view and rather shortsighted as such. When inventory does start to filter back in, that jacked-up pricing is (presumably) still going to apply (for a time, perhaps, until supply and demand corrects further).

What’s unfortunate is that a robust uptick in RTX 5090 stock was predicted to happen towards the end of March, where we’re sat now, and there’s no sign of any such increase in supply. What’s going on with that? The rumor might have been plain wrong, or perhaps Nvidia has rejigged its chip allocation, and remains just too preoccupied with sales of heavyweight AI graphics cards (which use that same GB202 chip as the RTX 5090).

Meanwhile, there are tales on Reddit of waiting lists for pre-ordered RTX 5090 graphics cards that are so lengthy, those who’ve already put their money down are likely to be waiting at least another three months for the GPU to be shipped.

It’s all a bit of a nightmare, frankly, and with AMD’s RX 9070 stock also disappearing as soon as it arrives in stores, even if Team Red’s supply is a good deal better than Nvidia’s Blackwell graphics cards, it’s still a tricky situation for would-be buyers. And that’s exactly why a good number of PC gamers (myself included) are getting fed up with the situation, and have resigned themselves to a strategy of just waiting out this stock-and-pricing-storm for the foreseeable.

You might also like...

• Nvidia rumors suggest it's working on two affordable GPUs to spoil AMD's party
• AMD warns its RX 9070 GPUs are strictly ‘UEFI-only’ – but don't panic, here's why this probably doesn’t affect you
• Nvidia releases stats that prove DLSS and Frame Generation are here to stay - sorry, angry gamers

• Access to social media platforms in Turkey has been restored after 42 hours of shutdown
• Proton VPN has recorded a spike of +1100% starting from March 19, 2025, the day restrictions were enforced
• Many X accounts have then been blocked upon Turkish authorities' orders

On March 21, 2025, Turkish authorities lifted the ban on social media platforms after 42 hours of being enforced. Yet, VPN usage remains high as mass demonstrations continue.

Citizens began turning to the best VPN apps to keep accessing the likes of X, Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, TikTok, and WhatsApp from March 19, the day restrictions were enforced. Proton VPN, for example, recorded a spike in signups of +1100%.

As protests sparked by the arrest of Ekrem İmamoğlu, the Mayor of Istanbul, and his opposition counterpart, continued, many X accounts of opposition figures and independent news outlets were reportedly blocked on government orders.

Turkey VPN usage skyrocketed

Experts at Proton have recorded a spike in VPN sign-ups following the arrest of Erdogan's main political rival and reports of social media blocks. (Image credit: Proton)

"Protecting free speech and fighting censorship is a core part of our mission, and we're committed to doing what we can to help people around the world. Unfortunately, Turkey is one such country with a poor recent history of censorship," David Peterson, General Manager of Proton VPN, told TechRadar in a statement on Friday.

The spikes in usage have occurred despite Proton VPN being one of the 27 VPN providers restricted in Turkey

This isn't the first time Proton VPN has recorded similar spikes in usage in Turkey.

Only in 2024 did Proton VPN signups skyrocket by 1,400% in October and 4,500% in August amid similar blocks on social media services. Also, in 2023, citizens increasingly turned to Proton VPN. The company recorded a staggering 15,000% increase in February after Twitter was blocked following a deadly earthquake and a 2,100% spike in May as citizens prepared for potential blocks ahead of the presidential elections.

The spikes in usage have occurred despite Proton VPN being one of 27 VPN providers restricted in Turkey, alongside NordVPN, ExpressVPN, Surfshark, and others. Specifically, their official websites are blocked in the country.

"Because of this, many people – especially those who aren’t familiar with VPNs – hadn’t heard of Proton VPN," Turkish journalist Ali Safa Korkut told TechRadar, explaining that interest in the software grew following a Swiss provider's tweet shared on March 22.

"I know people around me who are using Proton VPN without any issues," he added.

(Image credit: Future)

While access to social media was restored around 1 am local time on Friday, internet censorship hasn't completely stopped.

X blocked multiple accounts of political figures and students involved in the protests upon the government's request, alongside those of journalists and independent news organizations like Bianet.

Korkut, who closely tracked these blocks from the beginning, has counted 309 X accounts blocked so far. "These include well-known journalists with 1.5 million followers as well as anonymous accounts with no followers at all," he said, adding, "new accounts are being blocked by the minute."

Isik Mater, Director of Research at internet watchdog NetBlocks, explains that this trend aligns with past instances where X complied with takedown requests from the Turkish government, raising concerns about platform neutrality and freedom of expression.

She told TechRadar: "Access to social media is a fundamental pillar for freedom of speech and the right to information, especially in moments of political tension or crisis. Restrictions like these not only limit public discourse but also undermine citizens’ ability to organize, communicate, and stay informed during critical events."

You might also like

• The VPN ban in Turkey is "nothing new," but there are still some workarounds
• 119 countries saw VPN usage soar in 2024 during times of political crisis
• 2024 was the worst year on record for internet freedoms – again

It started as a joke, turned into a demo years later, and now it's a real tool.

Commentary: Apple is rumored to be working on its first folding iPhone. I have some words of warning before it launches.

• iOS 18.4 could be right around the corner, as Apple has issued a pre-release version
• New features include Priority Notifications and a new style for Image Playground
• Additionally, Visual Intelligence comes to iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max

iOS 18.4 looks set to bring a major overhaul to the way notifications work on your iPhone, and the best part is we might not have to wait too long for the upcoming update to arrive.

As The Verge reports, Apple issued a release candidate version of iOS 18.4 on March 24, signalling that the stable release of the update is most likely on the way very soon. Notably, this iOS 18.4 beta finally brings Priority Notifications to select iPhones, an Apple Intelligence feature that automatically gives prominence to important notifications by highlighting them on your lock screen.

Personally, I think that sounds like a great addition to the iPhone’s notification system – my phone is frequently jammed up with all manner of notifications, so having the most important ones highlighted the second I reach for my device seems like a helpful addition. You will, however, need an iPhone 15 Pro or newer to access Apple Intelligence (and therefore Priority Notifications).

(Image credit: Apple)

Priority Notifications was first revealed in June 2024 alongside the announcement and release of the iPhone 16 series and iOS 18, but the feature seems to have fallen victim to the unusually messy launch of Apple Intelligence (see also the long-awaited Siri update).

A release candidate build is, as its name suggests, a close-to-ready version of a software update – literally a candidate for stable release. We can think of the release candidate as the intermediate step between beta versions and the real thing. It tracks, then, that Priority Notifications will be a key part of iOS 18.4 proper.

What else is coming with iOS 18.4?

Visual Intelligence comes to the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max with iOS 18.4 (Image credit: Apple)

As 9to5Mac reports, iOS 18.4 will bring a handful of other software goodies to owners of the iPhone XS or newer, with the update encompassing all of the current best iPhones.

Significantly, iOS 18.4 will bring Apple Intelligence to the EU, ending a months-long gridlock due to officially unknown causes.

Furthermore, Apple’s environmentally aware Visual Intelligence AI scanning feature will come to the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max, having previously been exclusive to the iPhone 16 series.

The App Store will get review summaries generated by AI, too, while Image Playground will finally benefit from the Sketch style promised at launch.

Additionally, the list of supported Apple Intelligence languages will be expanded in iOS 18.4. Newly supported languages include:

• Simplified Chinese
• Spanish
• Korean
• Japanese
• French
• German
• Portuguese (Brazil)
• Italian

And perhaps most crucially of all, users will get access to nine new emojis in iOS 18.4, including future classics like “face with bags under eyes”, “shovel”, “harp”, and “beetroot”.

In any case, let us know what you’re looking forward to in iOS 18.4 in the comments section below, and feel free to check out our iPhone 16 review and iPhone 16 Pro review for a look at how Apple Intelligence works in practice.

You might also like

• A fresh Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge leak hints at a 2K display and a titanium frame
• I switched to a Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 five months ago and I haven’t looked back – here are five things you need to know before buying a foldable phone
• 5 things I want from the iPhone 17 – or I’m out and back to Android