Feed aggregator

• Tipster Evan Blass reportedly shared unreleased Buds 3 FE images on X
• The images now show the message ‘withdrawn by the copyright holder’
• After a leaky Buds Core release, Samsung may be tightening the reins

Must be tough being one of the biggest names in tech. Imagine journalists (yes, like me) and avid fans in every corner, trying to peak behind the red velvet curtain and get the scoop before anyone else – especially when it's a new set of 'Fan Edition' Samsung earbuds predicted to be significantly cheaper than the flagship Galaxy Buds 3 Pro.

Late last week, noted tipster Evan Blass took to X to post an image entitled 'GB3FE' (see what they did there) showing what was said to be the Galaxy Buds 3 FE – as reported by Android Headlines.

The thing is, said image is now empty apart from a placeholder message that simply reads:

Media not displayed
This image has been removed in response to a report from the copyright holder

Is this an indication that the photo was indeed an official Samsung press shot of the unreleased Galaxy Buds 3 FE – and Samsung didn't like it? Impossible to say for sure, but it's certainly possible…

GB3FE pic.twitter.com/qNp57isIw7July 18, 2025

Why so coy, Samsung?

You may remember the somewhat haphazard release of the Galaxy Buds Core. They were first spotted in an APK teardown alongside the still-unofficial Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 FE on June 12, then listed by name in a tweet by Samsung India on June 23, alongside a June 27 launch date (and even an Amazon listing) and then, on June 26 – a day earlier than billed – actual published specs and images arrived, this time on Samsung's UAE site. It just felt like there could've been an email.

Consider also the fact that no Galaxy Buds 2 FE model exists. Essentially, the newest official Samsung Galaxy earbuds, the Buds Core, adopt this position, which means the Buds 3 FE (the unreleased set you're reading about now) are both a follow-up to the original Galaxy Buds FE – and they're not.

What I'm trying to say is that it feels to me as if Evan Blass' leaked images were probably genuine, but that Samsung really wants to get this launch right and minimize confusion so isn't having it, thank you very much.

Given that the August 2024-issue Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 Pro are still some of the very best earbuds we've tested (but far from the cheapest), I can see why Samsung would want to refine and perfect the launch rocket this time around.

And so far, it's not doing a bad job! Aside from the efforts of Android Authority, who wheedled out the name 'Galaxy Buds 3 FE' from the latest Galaxy Buds Controller app in June (Wear OS version, v1.0.08.38) and this now-disappeared image, concrete information on the Buds 3 FE is incredibly hard to find.

Rest assured that as we know more, so shall you. For now, we wait – but at least it looks increasingly like we're waiting for something real, and may not be waiting too much longer…

You may also like

• USB-C audio in AirPods Max doesn't just sound great on paper: for me, Lossless audio quality finally makes them worth it
• See our pick of the best earbuds
• AptX unpacked: your guide to using Qualcomm’s Bluetooth codecs (and the devices that support them)

Two U.S. military bases are expanding to detain immigrants suspected of being in the country without legal status. And, Israel has advanced into Central Gaza to put pressure on the ceasefire deal.

(Image credit: PAUL J. RICHARDS/AFP via Getty Images)

• The Fantastic Four: First Steps doesn't require any Marvel movie or TV show homework
• Its director Matt Shakman says it's a standalone story in every sense of the word
• Shakman also confirms he wasn't asked to directly set up Avengers: Doomsday story

The Fantastic Four: First Steps director Matt Shakman has reiterated that the movie is a standalone story that doesn't require any homework on Marvel fans' part.

Speaking to TechRadar, Shakman says the forthcoming film isn't beholden to the same connective tissue that other Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) projects are because it exists in a parallel dimension. It's for this reason, Shakman believes, that the Marvel Phase 6 flick can be enjoyed by MCU devotees and newcomers alike.

For the uninitiated: The Fantastic Four's latest big-screen reboot is set in an alternate reality to the MCU. They reside in another universe designated Earth-828, which is a reference to the birthday (August 28) of Marvel icon Jack Kirby, who co-created Marvel's first family alongside Stan Lee.

The eponymous superteam's existence in a separate dimension is the first time that a Marvel Studios project has been set outside of the MCU, aka Earth-616. It's a decision that's not only vital to the tale that First Steps will tell, but also freed Shakman and company of the increasingly complex shared universe that began 17 years (and counting!) ago with 2008's Iron Man.

The Fantastic Four's world, Earth-828 is more utopian than the MCU's Earth-616 (Image credit: Marvel Studios)

"I love Marvel's shared storytelling," Shakman told me. "I love interconnectedness and I certainly enjoyed doing WandaVision [the Disney+ show that Shakman directed all nine episodes of], which was a big part of that interconnection.

"But, it was very freeing to just focus on this universe where we didn't have to deal with all of that. This was our chance to build a whole new universe where they [Fantastic Four] are the only heroes. You don't need to see other Marvel movies or shows to appreciate it. There are no Easter eggs. There are no other heroes. It's just about them, their world, and their story."

That won't be the case once First Steps' end credits have rolled. One of this year's most exciting new movies is the progenitor for Avengers: Doomsday, with events in the final Marvel film of 2025 directly leading into the next Avengers movie. For more details on that, read my ultimate guide on Avengers: Doomsday.

At the time of publication, Avengers: Doomsday's filming schedule is three months deep (Image credit: Marvel Studios)

So, despite First Steps being a standalone story, was Shakman asked to establish any story beats for Avengers 5 in his first MCU film?

"Where they go from here, that's up to others," he teased. "They'll eventually join up with Earth's Mightiest Heroes and that'll be fun to see."

I guess we'll find out when First Steps arrives in theaters worldwide on Friday, July 25! In the meantime, read my ultimate guide on The Fantastic Four: First Steps, and my First Steps cast and character guide, to learn more ahead of its release. Then, read the section below for more exclusive coverage of the superhero movie.

You might also like

• Was Doctor Doom ever considered as The Fantastic Four: First Steps' main villain? The Marvel movie's director has his say
• 'We hardly crossed paths': The actors behind The Fantastic Four: First Steps' villains never filmed a scene together – and only met once on the Marvel movie's set
• The Fantastic Four: First Steps director has a blunt message for fans who criticised the Marvel movie's visual effects: 'I think they're beautiful'

• Nothing’s CMF Watch 3 Pro smartwatch has just launched
• It’s priced at $99 and offers AI health tracking
• The watch is an updated version of the CMF Watch 2 Pro

The best smartwatches don’t have to break the bank, as the CMF Watch 2 Pro from Nothing showed last year. Now, Nothing has updated this digital timepiece again with the launch of the CMF Watch 3 Pro, which is priced at an affordable $99 / £99 / €99 (around AU$205).

Nothing describes the Watch 3 Pro as its “most intelligent smartwatch yet,” and it packs in updated health-tracking features alongside an artificial intelligence (AI) assistant that is designed to help you improve your wellbeing through targeted coaching.

The Watch 3 Pro comes with a “dual-band five-system GPS setup,” which Nothing says brings improved route tracking, while there’s also a new heart rate sensor that offers “improved accuracy across all skin tones and workout intensities.”

As for the AI coach, this “builds and adjusts plans based on your fitness,” according to Nothing, and provides guidance on your workouts and the ways you can improve. It uses ChatGPT and works using natural language voice prompts. You can also use your voice to record notes and make phone calls.

An affordable smartwatch contender

(Image credit: Nothing)

When we reviewed the CMF Watch 2 Pro, one of our key criticisms was the lack of water resistance. That’s something that’s been addressed in the Watch 3 Pro, which now comes with IP68 water and dust resistance.

A deeper concern with the Watch 2 Pro was its performance, which was frequently beset by quirks and odd behavior. Hopefully that’s something Nothing has been able to put right, but we won’t know for sure until we’re able to review the latest model.

Elsewhere in the Watch 3 Pro, you’ll find blood oxygen monitoring, stress tracking and guided breathing exercises, women’s health tools, reminders for inactivity and hydration, and more.

It also comes with a six-axis accelerometer, a 50% increase over the Watch 2 Pro. Nothing says you’ll get 13 days of battery life on a single charge, or 4.5 days with the always-on display enabled. Charging from zero to 100% takes 99 minutes.

The Watch 3 Pro goes on sale today (July 22), although it won’t be available in “some regions” (including India) until “later this year.”

You might also like

• CMF Watch Pro 2 review: Better, but also not
• The Nothing CMF Watch 3 Pro's key specs and packaging may have been revealed in a new leak
• The best smartwatch 2025: Top wearable tech and fitness trackers

• Disney is reportedly using generative AI from the same startup as Netflix
• Lionsgate and AMC Networks have also inked deals with Runway AI
• An increasing number of studios are experimenting with the tech

Disney is reportedly the latest Hollywood studio to quietly use the same generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) tool as Netflix – and it's easy to see why others have been attracted to the controversial tech as they cite time and cost saving benefits on production.

According to Bloomberg, The Walt Disney Company has been testing Runway AI's tools, and has even gone as far as to talk to the startup about possibly using its generative AI tools in movies and TV shows. While a Disney spokesperson has confirmed there are no plans to integrate the software, it's just another sign of how studios are becoming more comfortable with utilizing AI.

It's no secret that Netflix is using AI, for instance. Co-CEO Ted Sarandos openly confessed as much – during the company's earnings call last week – when he revealed AI was used to generate a VFX (visual effects) sequence in an original production for the first time in dystopian drama The Eternaut. At the time, it wasn't disclosed which AI software was used, but a source has reportedly confirmed to Bloomberg that it was indeed Runway AI's tech.

To be clear, The Eternaut was not the first time that Netflix had used AI. It unsuccessfully tried to fix 80s sitcom A Different World with AI upscaling and was caught up the AI Oscars controversy after Emilia Pérez was criticized for using voice enhancement tech. Still, it marks the first time that Netflix has used generative AI in one of its own original projects.

The reason why that's notable is because generative AI has the potential to completely upend the entire industry. There's a reason why the Hollywood actors' and writers' strikes in 2023 were so heavily focused on putting in place safeguards to protect the livelihoods and creative integrity of VFX artists and animators.

It's one thing to mess around with Runway's AI to turn your home videos into Hollywood blockbusters, but for a billion dollar industry to start cutting corners is a slippery slope that many are rightfully concerned about.

Which other Hollywood studios are using Runway AI?

It's not just Netflix and Disney that are reportedly working with Runway AI. Two years ago, Variety revealed that VFX artist Evan Halleck used the startup's tools in Everything Everywhere All At Once to remove the background from certain scenes.

The same justifications were used then as they're now, with Halleck claiming that it was cheaper and faster to use AI tools than more time consuming processes like rotoscoping. Sarandos recently echoed these sentiments when he said "that the VFX sequence [in The Eternaut] was completed 10 times faster than it could have been completed with visual, traditional VFX tools and workflows".

At the time, it was also reported Runway was even working The Late Show with Stephen Colbert. "They’re using it almost for on a daily basis to translate hours of work. The team is able to iterate their ideas faster, and it’s helping them augment their creative workflow," Runway CEO Cristóbal Valenzuela told Variety.

In the years since, Hollywood has begun to warm to AI even faster then some may have initially predicted. Indeed, it's been reported that Runway AI inked a deal with Lionsgate in September 2024. Vice chairman of the studio Michael Burns says the tie-up will help it produce "movies and television shows we’d otherwise never make".

Since then, more production companies have jumped on the bandwagon. The creator and co-showrunner of Amazon's House of David , Jon Erwin, revealed to Variety that various AI tools were used to create a scene in the show, including Runway's AI video generator.

Just last month, Runway AI also partnered with AMC Networks to use its tools to help visualize a TV show that hasn't yet been produced as well as to generate marketing images, The Hollywood Reporter (THR) reported. "It’s kind of a natural transition for every entertainment and media company; they need to think through what AI means for them," Valenzuela told THR when asked about the AMC partnership.

It seems inevitable that more studios will continue to work with Runway AI as more become comfortable making it publicly known, and it looks like the startup isn't stopping at Hollywood. A new text-to-video game AI generator is on the way that will no doubt have a huge impact on the gaming industry once it's further developed, according to The Verge. Could we see Runway AI make the same inroads in the gaming industry? I'd look to Hollywood as the blueprint.

You might also like

• Forget Sora, Runway is the AI video maker coming to blow your mind
• This AI can turn your mundane video into a special effects spectacular
• 5 things AI does in movies and TV I'm still waiting on

Texas Republicans want to redraw the state's congressional districts to gain an advantage in next year's election. U.S. Rep. Ritchie Torres, D-N.Y., says Democrats must counter or become complicit.

(Image credit: Drew Angerer)

• Project Stargate could be targeting a smaller Ohio data center as its first site
• Oracle CEO Safra Catz says the project is not even formed yet
• OpenAI and SoftBank disagree over some things

OpenAI may have already significantly scaled back its multi-billion dollar Project Stargate initaitive, with no data center deals completed under the project in the six months it has been live.

Announced in January 2025 as a $500 billion effort to "[build] new AI infrastructure for OpenAI in the United States," people familiar with the matter say Project Stargate is now targeting a smaller data center in Ohio by the end of the year, marking a slowdown compared with early plans.

Despite delayed progress, OpenAI CEO Sam Altman and SoftBank CEO Masayoshi Son have both stated that the partnership remains strong and active.

Project Stargate could be experiencing delays

According to new Wall Street Journal reporting though, OpenAI and SoftBank have disagreed over data center locations and the use of SB Energy sites (a SoftBank-backed energy firm). OpenAI has also made its own progress separate from the Project, including striking up a $30 billion deal with Oracle for 4.5 gigawatts of capacity.

In January, OpenAI said: "The buildout is currently underway, starting in Texas, and we are evaluating potential sites across the country for more campuses as we finalize definitive agreements."

Speaking on an investor call last month, Oracle CEO Safra Catz countered Altman's assertion: "Stargate is not formed yet."

Although many of the industry's key players, including Arm, Microsoft, Nvidia, Oracle and OpenAI, are partnered with the project, Stargate is still presented with challenges including bringing down costs and sourcing land, AI chips and energy.

Dubbed the largest investment of its kind, the $500 billion Stargate Project was followed by further announcements designed to strengthen the US' position as a global leader in tech and AI, including $500 billion from Apple geared towards manufacturing and training, and a further $500 billion from Nvidia to expand US AI infrastructure.

Like Stargate, those are long-term four-year projects, and it's unclear how much progress has been made and whether any regulatory, financial or other struggles lay ahead.

TechRadar Pro has asked OpenAI for more information.

You might also like

• These are the best AI tools and best AI writers
• Access powerful chips with the best cloud computing providers
• OpenAI is massively upping its Oracle cloud capacity to power Project Stargate - is this the mystery $30bn deal?

• The Lenovo Legion Go 2 has leaked in China with prototype units reportedly available to buy on second-hand platforms
• The prototype seen in a Bilibili video isn't using the AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme
• There's still no confirmation on a release date or what the finalized version of the handheld will be

It's been a while since we've had any updates on Lenovo's release plans or schedule for its next handheld gaming PC, since its announcement and brief showcase at CES 2025. Now, there's yet another twist in the tale, but not in the way you might expect.

As reported by VideoCardz, the Lenovo Legion Go 2 prototype has leaked in China, and units are rumored to be available for purchase on a second-hand platform, ahead of its official release. In a Bilibili video, it already has a brief teardown and showcase – and it's worth noting that the units appear to be missing the AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme processor.

Instead, it's reportedly using the Ryzen Z2 processor, or at the very least the widely-used (yet older) Ryzen Z1 Extreme. This isn't surprising, since Lenovo has technically confirmed that there will be other configurations of the Legion Go 2, as it stated that "the prototype features up to the new AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme processor".

However, what is quite odd is the lack of transparency from Lenovo. The Legion Go 2 has been slated for a launch sometime in 2025, and it seems as though that may be around September, based on launch rumors for Mexico, but we've still not seen the device beyond its prototype, despite it apparently launching soon.

There is some very encouraging news, however, as the handheld will use an OLED PureSight touch display, and from what's showcased in the Bilibili video, it's a sight to behold combined with the 8.8-inch display size. While it will likely cost around $1,000, I think the OLED screen may just about justify it, pitting it against competitors like the Steam Deck OLED.

(Image credit: Future)Analysis: I'm still not willing to pay $1,000 for a handheld gaming PC, but a slightly lower price for the Legion Go 2 might be justified

Regardless of how powerful these devices get as the best handheld gaming PCs on the market, I'll always find it very hard to recommend any one of them that hits the $1,000 mark.

I've had the same thought about the new MSI Claw 8 AI+ and the new MSI Claw A8 – but if any device comes close to potentially justifying it, it's the Lenovo Legion Go 2.

Again, it's still in prototype, so we don't have the full picture of what it will have at launch, hardware and ergonomics-wise. However, I'm willing to bet that the highest configuration will cost $1,000 due to the addition of an OLED screen, combined with the improved performance using the AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme.

Now, I'm sure I won't be the first one to mention how unappealing that price point sounds, but it's possibly the only handheld that sounds like it might be worthwhile. I know other handhelds using OLED screens and powerful processors exist, but there's no world where you would ever find me recommending a handheld gaming PC that's over $1,500 (I'm looking at you, OneXPlayer).

If the Lenovo Legion Go 2 ends up being priced at or below the MSI Claw 8 AI+'s $899 / £899 / AU$1,799 price, then it instantly becomes an easier recommendation, especially up against the Steam Deck OLED or Nintendo Switch 2 – but again, it may still struggle to sell with a price that isn't affordable.

You might also like...

• Sorry MSI, but you blew it – the Claw A8 is overpriced and could struggle to compete against cheaper rivals like the Steam Deck
• Forget the Switch 2 – this dual-screen handheld gaming PC brings back the glory days of the Nintendo DS, but with all your Steam games
• Finally, the MSI Claw A8 is almost here to rival the Switch 2 and other handhelds – just be ready to pay a hefty sum

Lawmakers declined to stop states from regulating artificial intelligence, but the debate over rules for AI is just beginning.

All your questions about fiber internet, answered.

• The next free update for Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora will be released on December 5, 2025
• The update adds two highly requested features, Third-Person Mode and New Game Plus
• Massive Entertainment has reworked animations, controls, audio, and camera systems to make Third-Person Mode work seamlessly

Massive Entertainment has announced that a new update for Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora will arrive later this year and add two new ways to play.

The free patch will be released on December 5, 2025, and introduce two new features that have been highly requested by players: Third-Person Mode and New Game Plus.

With Third-Person Mode, players will be able to play Frontiers of Pandora from a new perspective, which brings "a new sense of scale, freedom, and immersion" at the press of a button.

The studio has reworked animations, controls, audio, and camera systems to make for a seamless transition from the game's original first-person mode.

Meanwhile, New Game Plus will let players replay the game's story while keeping their inventory and skills, face higher-level enemies, and unlock a brand-new skill tree and stronger gear.

"We've always envisioned Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora as a living world that evolves with our players," said Omar Bouali, creative director at Massive Entertainment.

"This update is a celebration of our community's passion and we're thankful to our players for their support. It means the world to our team."

The next update follows two post-launch story packs, The Sky Breaker and Secrets of the Spires. However, Massive Entertainment has confirmed that this content is unavailable in New Game Plus.

• Best PS5 games 2025 - the top 26 PlayStation 5 titles to play right now
• The Nintendo Switch 2 is the company’s least ambitious console to date, but its improvements are astronomical
• I’ve spent 150 hours with The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, and the Switch 2 Edition is an incredible upgrade

• Rollei Powerflex X8 compact camera unveiled with dual lenses
• One lens is an 8x optical zoom, the other a fixed selfie lens
• It costs €299, which converts to about $350 / £225 / AU$535

The Rollei Powerflex X8 was unveiled last week, but the headline specs and branding of this cheap dual-lens compact aren't quite what they seem.

As is the case with other, non-branded, cheap cameras that you can pick up from the likes of Amazon, there's a catch with the Powerflex X8's impressive-sounding 64MP stills and 5K video.

Top-resolution JPEG-only stills are achieved through interpolation – this isn't a true 64MP camera, but an 8MP one with a small 1/2.8-inch sensor. 5K video is also interpolated from 4K / 30p video.

I'm not surprised that the camera is touted as a 64MP / 5K one, because the authentic 8MP / 4K specs sound way less impressive.

Without getting too technical about it, the bottom line is that the huge leap in resolution is a digital enlargement from an 8MP sensor, so don't expect the same quality as from a true high-resolution camera.

Unlike non-branded cameras available online with similar sounding specs, the Powerflex X8 has the legendary Rollei name attached to it. However, this isn't a camera from the Rollei of yesteryear, but a standard cheap compact camera, just with the licensing of the Rollei name applied to it, much as it was to the altogether different Rollei 35AF by Mint.

In fairness, we can't expect too much from the Powerflex X8 given how cheap it is – €299 converts to about $350 / £223 / AU$535.

(Image credit: Rollei)

The camera packs an 8x optical zoom lens that covers a 38-310mm zoom range that's more versatile than your phone's, although it might be a little tight for wide-angle lovers, and which has a f/1.8-2.6 max aperture.

There's also a simple selfie camera with f/2.2 aperture, nestled above the large 3.6-inch IPS touchscreen. The pixel count of the smaller sensor it uses (1/3.06-inch) isn't mentioned in the specs, but I've calculated the lens focal length to be approximately 24mm.

The camera body is a lightweight 13.5oz / 383g and it features a generous-looking grip, plus there's USB-C connectivity and a mic input, while images are recorded onto micro SD card (not supplied).

I haven't used the Powerflex X8, but I would expect it to feel okay in the hand, complete with a decent array of controls and connectivity. Just don't have high hopes for the image quality you can get out of it – cameras like the Powerflex X8 promise much, but the reality is somewhat of a letdown.

If you're in the market for a low-cost compact camera with genuine image-quality chops I've highlighted three of the best cheap cameras available below. I'd also recommend looking at secondhand snappers.

Cheap compact camera alternatives

Dedicated cameras aren't exactly cheap these days, but below are three affordable alternatives to the Powerflex V8.

Panasonic Lumix ZS99 / TZ99

A respectable travel-zoom pocket snapper, the Lumix ZS99 (which is known as the TZ99 outside the US) packs a 30x optical zoom, a flip-up touchscreen and USB-C charging. Like the Powerflex V8, it has a small sensor on a par with many smartphones, but its 20MP stills are the real deal. It's around twice the price of the Rollei Powerflex X8, but twice as versatile, and more pocketable. If you don't mind buying secondhand, the older Lumix ZS80 / TZ95 that this model replaces can typically be had for a similar price to the Powerflex V8, or less from reputable secondhand retailers.

Read our in-depth Panasonic Lumix ZS99 / TZ99 review

Sony Cyber-shot HX99

With similar specs to the Lumix ZS99 / TZ99, the discontinued Sony Cyber-shot HX99 is another solid option purchased secondhand, again for a similar price to the new Powerflex V8. It features a 30x optical zoom with 5-axis stabilization, and unlike the ZS99 it features a handy viewfinder. I've included it here because, in the UK at least, it can be found easily at reputable secondhand dealers.

Read our Sony Cyber-shot HX99 review

Kodak Pixpro AZ425

Putting the 'super' into superzoom, Kodak makes a range of what are otherwise known as bridge cameras, most of which can be had for less than the Powerflex V8. The AZ245 is one of the better ones, with 42x optical zoom, 20MP stills and DSLR-style handling, with a large grip and pop-up flash. Image quality isn't up to much either, but this is an extremely versatile snapper.

You might also like

• Forget the Pentax 17, the upcoming Rollei 35AF is the film camera I’m most excited about in 2024 – here’s why
• The best cheap camera for 2025: finest budget cameras you can buy
• Fujifilm’s X half is a tiny retro compact that’s big on wacky film photography features, and I love it

• Around 100 organizations have been targeted by Microsoft SharePoint vulnerability
• Series of cyberattacks appear to be the work of Chinese hackers
• The vulnerability has left as many as 8,000 servers at risk

A cyberespionage campaign exploiting the recently-revealed Microsoft SharePoint issue has targeted roughly 100 organizations, compromising server software and primarily hitting government agencies in the US and Germany, experts have warned.

Google released a statement in which it attributed at least some of the attacks to a ‘China-Nexus threat actor,’ and warned against further expansion of the threat.

Microsoft recently released urgent security flaw patches to address a zero-day vulnerability that affected SharePoint servers, which have been abused in attacks since July 18, with victims reportedly including a private energy operator in California as well as a private fintech firm in New York.

China-Nexus threat actors

The attacks saw hackers extract cryptographic keys from servers that are run by Microsoft clients. The keys would then let them install pretty much anything - including malware or backdoors that hackers could use to return.

Only SharePoint versions that are hosted by the customer, rather than the cloud, are vulnerable. These types of attacks could allow attackers to steal corporate secrets or install ransomware to encrypt key files.

“We assess that at least one of the actors responsible for this early exploitation is a China-nexus threat actor” said Charles Carmakal, chief technology officer of Google’s Mandiant Consulting.

“It's critical to understand that multiple actors are now actively exploiting this vulnerability. We fully anticipate that this trend will continue, as various other threat actors, driven by diverse motivations, will leverage this exploit as well." he continued.

Researchers say that so far, the attacks can be attributed to a single hacker or a set of hackers, rather than a large number - but there has been a broad range of targets, and a vast number of potential targets - with some researchers estimating up to 8,000 vulnerable servers.

Whilst the update should prevent new intrusion, users will also need to rotate machine keys, search for any missed breaches, and deploy Antimalware Scan Interface (AMSI) as well as antivirus software.

You might also like

• Take a look at our picks for the best malware removal software around
• Check out our choice for best antivirus software
• US government wants to ban Chinese technology in submarine cables

• Atari and Bandai Namco are teaming up for Pac-Man's 45th anniversary
• This comes in the form of the upcoming Atari 2600+ Pac-Man Edition
• The package includes the console, a unique joystick, and a Pac-Man game cartridge

First, there was a sublime Tekken 8 stage, then the release of bizarre metroidvania Shadow Labyrinth. Now, Bandai Namco has teamed up with Atari for a rather unexpected Pac-Man 45th anniversary collaboration.

The Atari 2600+ Pac-Man Edition is an upcoming version of the recreated console that sports a fittingly yellow coat of paint. Pre-orders for the unit are set to go live tomorrow (July 23, 2025) at Amazon and Atari's own website, and it'll cost you $169.99 / £129.99. As for the release date, it's expected to launch on October 31, 2025. Spooky.

The console also comes packaged with a unique Pac-Man Edition CX-40+ joystick and a Pac-Man: Double Feature cartridge, which includes the original Atari 2600 version of Pac-Man, as well as an all-new Atari 7800 version.

CX-40+ joysticks based on Pac-Man's ghostly enemies - Inky, Blinky, Pinky, and Clyde - will also be available to pre-order separately at $39.99 / £29.99 each. These come in the colors of their respective ghost, either blue, red, pink, or orange.

Otherwise, you can expect all the same features as the original Atari 2600+. That includes full compatibility with existing 2600 and 7800 cartridges, HDMI output, and widescreen support.

Atari is also preparing a limited High Score Collection, which bundles four cartridges into one package. Each game - Pac-Man: Double Feature, Dig Dug, Xevious, and Galaga - comes with its own packaging and some "exclusive extras" according to the store page. Pre-orders for the High Score Collection also open up on July 23 for October shipping.

You might also like...

• Battlefield 6 could be officially revealed as early as next week, according to series influencers
• Here are the Nintendo Switch 2 launch games that arrived alongside the new console
• This is not a drill: one of the best strategy games ever is free right now – here's how to get it before it's gone

UK companies are significantly increasing their investment in AI, with spending by small and mid-sized businesses (SMBs) growing fivefold between 2022 and 2024. In fact, in 2025, SMBs could save over £29,000 annually through the adoption of AI tools. With economic uncertainty and rising operational costs still affecting UK businesses, AI’s ability to boost efficiency and drive profitability is especially important for the competitiveness of businesses.

One key area experiencing fast growth is customer communications, where AI is enabling businesses to personalize messages at scale, respond faster to queries and streamline service workflows. These capabilities aren’t just improvements, they’re becoming expectations.

When done right, AI can increase customer satisfaction, improve accuracy, and free employees to focus on more complex tasks. But without careful, responsible implementation, businesses risk eroding trust just as quickly as they boost performance.

Trusting AI to make the right connections

Generative AI is still a relatively new presence in customer communications, yet many people are already growing accustomed to its role. Nearly half (49%) of consumers aged 18–35 are now comfortable with organizations using AI-generated communication, appreciating the potential for more personalized, timely interactions that improve their experience. When implemented thoughtfully, AI enhances the human touch, handling routine tasks efficiently while enabling deeper, more meaningful engagement.

AI in communications can also drive measurable outcomes for wider business goals. According to a 2024 KPMG report, UK brands saw a 1.4 percent increase in customer satisfaction as a result of using AI in customer interactions. These improvements might take the form of real-time delivery updates, personalized recommendations based on past behaviors, or greater accuracy in billing and appointment scheduling, all of which improve the customer experience.

Building consumer trust in AI

However, the newness of AI means trust isn’t universal. Just 23% of consumers aged 55 and over feel comfortable with AI communications, highlighting the ongoing challenge of earning trust across a diverse customer base. Similarly, skepticism remains around communication quality, security and privacy. Research shows that 58% of people believe AI produces lower-quality written communication than humans, while 81% of UK consumers expect companies to disclose when AI has been involved in communications.

Failing to be transparent about AI’s role or data handling can leave customers uneasy and unsure about the systems, and companies, they’re engaging with. This concern is especially strong in sensitive sectors, where emotional and ethical stakes are high. Nearly half (45%) of consumers say they would respond with anger, discomfort or disgust if AI generated their medical test results, and more than a third (34%) feel the same about AI handling their insurance claims.

As people become more aware and discerning, the pressure is on businesses not just to use AI, but to show exactly how it improves, not undermines, customer experience and communication quality. This shift begins with thoughtful implementation.

From algorithm to ally in customer care

To build consumer trust, businesses must demonstrate that AI genuinely improves the customer experience, especially by enhancing the quality, relevance and reliability of communication. With concerns around data misuse and inaccuracy, businesses need to clearly explain how AI supports secure, accurate and personalized interactions, not just internally but in ways customers can understand and see.

AI should be positioned as an enabler of human service, taking care of routine tasks so employees can focus on complex, sensitive or high-value customer needs. A key part of gaining long-term trust is transparency around data. Businesses must clearly communicate how customer information is handled securely and show that AI is being used responsibly and with care.

This could include clearly labelling AI-generated communications such as emails or text messages, or proactively informing customers about what data is being used and for what purpose. The key to earning consumer trust lies in consistently proving that AI is not just a tool that can boost efficiency internally, but a thoughtful, secure and beneficial addition to the customer experience.

The AI audition

As conversations move beyond why AI should be used to how it must be used responsibly and effectively, companies have entered a make-or-break “audition phase” for AI. In customer communications, businesses can no longer afford to just talk about AI’s benefits, they must prove them by demonstrating how it enhances quality, security, and personalization.

Those that fail to act strategically and transparently risk losing customer trust, while those who get it right will not only pass the audition, they will secure AI’s role as a trusted voice in every interaction.

We've listed the best IT Automation software.

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

• ChatGPT is now fielding 2.5 billion prompts a day
• In comparison, Google gets 14 billion daily searches
• People are increasingly turning to AI instead of search engines

If you use ChatGPT on a daily basis, you’re certainly not alone. According to Axios, ChatGPT users now send more than 2.5 billion prompts a day to the artificial intelligence (AI) chatbot, showing how incredibly popular it has become over the last few years. Of those numbers, 330 million daily prompts are thought to come from users based in the US, Axios reports.

Although we don’t know whether ChatGPT is actively searching the internet for answers in response to those prompts (or instead relying on its training data), the figure could be worrying reading for search giant Google. That’s because people are increasingly turning away from Google and heading to the best AI tools for answers to their queries.

Google, by comparison, doesn’t share its daily search figures, but its parent company Alphabet recently revealed that the search engine gets roughly five trillion queries per year.

That translates to about 14 billion daily searches – still some way ahead of ChatGPT, but perhaps not unassailably so.

Rapid growth

(Image credit: Shutterstock / Tada Images)

What’s all the more impressive about ChatGPT’s search figures is the rapid growth it's undergone since December 2024.

Back then, Sam Altman, CEO of ChatGPT maker OpenAI, said that the platform received about one billion prompts a day. That means it’s more than doubled its usage in around eight months.

The question remains, though, whether ChatGPT’s current model is economically sustainable for OpenAI. The report from Axios highlights that the “vast majority of the platform's more than 500 million weekly active users” are using the free version of ChatGPT, meaning OpenAI is only generating income from a small subset of users.

And given there are claims that even the paid edition of ChatGPT is struggling to make money, securing so many daily searches might not be enough for OpenAI in the long run – at least in its current format.

Still, there’s no doubt that the company has undergone rapid expansion even in just the last year, as the daily prompt numbers attest. With Google looking nervously over its shoulder, search engines might soon look very different.

You might also like

• I replaced Google Search with ChatGPT Search, here's how you can too
• ChatGPT Search is now free for everyone, no OpenAI account required – is it time to ditch Google?
• I tried ChatGPT Search and now I might never Google again

Are you still using insecure passwords that put your online accounts at risk? With so many data breaches, leveling up your password security game is time.

NordPass, from the makers of the popular NordVPN, is one of the best password managers that combines robust security features with a user-friendly interface. From its zero-knowledge encryption to multi-factor authentication and passkey support, NordPass ensures your passwords stay locked down tight.

But it's not just about security. NordPass makes password management a breeze with autofill, secure sharing, password health checks, and more. Whether you're an individual or a business, NordPass has flexible pricing plans to meet your needs, including a free tier.

The best part? NordPass strikes the perfect balance between robust security and convenience, making it a top choice for anyone looking to safeguard their online life. It also offers some excellent features that businesses can utilize to enhance their credential security, which you can read about at the bottom of this review.

Learn more about how NordPass can simplify your digital life while fortifying your defenses. Read on.

• Interested in NordPass? Check out the website here

NordPass: Plans and pricing

There is a free tier with NordPass, which isn't always a given with password managers. It gets you storage for an unlimited number of passwords, which you can access from anywhere, but you’ll only be allowed one signed-in session at a time, so if you alternate between your phone and your computer, you’ll be kicked out each time you change your device.

It won't detect weak or reused passwords, and it won't scan the web for data breaches, which some competitor companies do even at this free level. It also won't let you mask your email or securely store files within the app.

(Image credit: NordPass)

The Premium account turns all those features on and costs $1.99 per month for annual commitments, or $1.49 per month for a two year commitment. It also allows you to use trusted sharing, which grants access to trusted contacts in case of emergencies.

(Image credit: NordPass)

The top personal tier is the Family plan, which you can buy for as little as $3.69 per month on the one year plan, or $2.79 per month for the two year commitment. You'll get six accounts with this product alongside all of the features included with the Premium product. Both of these plans are also available with two-year commitments, which means you can save a bit more money if you’re willing to pay upfront.

It’s also worth mentioning that some countries, including major markets like Australia and Canada, will see pricing in USD. Despite this, billing will still occur in local currencies.

(Image credit: NordPass)

NordPass's standard Business product starts at $3.99 per user per month for the one year plan, or $3.59 per user per month for the two year plan, and can handle up to 150 users, so it's ideal for small and medium businesses. This time, it’s advertised in USD globally, but each country will pay in local currencies. You get all the features we've mentioned alongside a security dashboard, the option to deploy company-wide settings, and Google Workplace SSO. The business product also includes team management features, like company-wide settings deployment and real-time monitoring. If you need more than 150 users, NordPass prompts you to contact the sales department for a quote.

(Image credit: NordPass)

The conventional business product doesn’t require a dedicated account manager or face-to-face onboarding. If you'd like those features, more SSO options, and user provisioning via Active Directory, you'll need the Enterprise product, and you'll again have to contact NordPass directly to get a quote.

In all cases, you can get a more significant discount via the NordPass promo codes that always are available to new users.

Unfortunately, Nord Security doesn’t offer bundles with its VPN service, NordVPN, which is a missed opportunity because other companies like Dashlane do.

(Image credit: NordPass)NordPass: Setup

NordPass is a well-regarded password manager developed by the cybersecurity experts behind NordVPN. With a strong focus on security and a user-friendly interface, it offers a reliable way to manage passwords. If you've chosen NordPass as your digital vault, here's your step-by-step guide to setting it up.

To begin with, NordPass, head to the NordPass website and create an account. You can sign up with your email, and you'll need to create a master password. This master password is the key to unlocking your vault, so ensure it's strong and memorable. NordPass doesn't have access to this password, so remember it, or your vault will become inaccessible.

With your account ready, download the NordPass application for your device. NordPass supports various operating systems, including Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS. After downloading and installing the app, sign in with the NordPass credentials that you just created.

Once you're in, NordPass can import passwords from your previous password manager or browser. This step can save you a considerable amount of time, as manually adding each password can be tedious. NordPass typically provides a guide for importing data to help you through the process.

Now it's time to explore NordPass features. Familiarize yourself with the user interface and see how to add and manage passwords. Try out the auto-fill and auto-save functionalities by logging into a few of your accounts to see how smoothly NordPass operates.

If you have various types of data you want to keep secure, NordPass allows you to store not just passwords but also notes, credit card information, and even personal details for quickly filling out forms online. Each entry is encrypted, ensuring your sensitive information remains private.

To enhance security further, consider setting up two-factor authentication (2FA). NordPass supports several 2FA methods, adding an extra layer of protection to your account. With 2FA enabled, accessing your vault requires something you know (your master password) and something you have (such as a code from your phone).

NordPass also offers a secure password generator tool, which you should use to create new, complex passwords for your accounts. To boost online security, update any weak passwords, replacing them with intense, randomly generated ones from NordPass.

Finally, download and install the NordPass browser extensions for a seamless browsing experience. Whether you're using Chrome, Firefox, or Safari, the NordPass extension can help you auto-fill passwords, save new login credentials, and access your vault quickly.

By now, your NordPass account should be fully operational. As you continue using NordPass, it's essential to review your vault for outdated information regularly and also take advantage of any new features that NordPass may release. With the NordPass setup complete, you can know that managing your passwords is now secure and straightforward.

(Image credit: NordPass)NordPass: Interface and performance

Everything about the NordPass interface is smooth and elegant, from the initial sign-up page to the apps you'll install as you get the software set up – it's actually one of the most polished experiences we've seen, and the same its true of other Nord Security products. Everything is built to be user-friendly and accessible, so it's a password manager that will suit users at all levels of technical know-how.

The software does a really good job of hiding itself away in the background and only popping up discreetly when needed, and we had no complaints in terms of getting our passwords synced across multiple devices (it only takes a second or two usually).

The helpful touches spread throughout were much appreciated. You can customize generated passwords by length or by turning off characters that can be misread as something else, for example). Following this theme, you can even streamline online shopping by letting NordPass input your credit card details and shipping info for a smoother checkout. It’s even possible to switch between different Nordpass accounts without compromising your security, so if you need to manage work and personal life separately, it’s easily done.

When it comes to managing your account, logging in and accessing your settings, passwords, and other stored information is very straightforward. We appreciate the clean interface that is well laid out, and easy to use.

Previously, we mentioned that it would be nice to be able to tag or otherwise sort different types of credentials, but this has now been addressed. Folders allow you to separate categories, for example social media, online shopping, and banking.

There’s a separate area for payment details, but it would be a nice addition to see a dedicated area for IDs, such as driving licenses and passports. These are the sorts of documents that you don’t carry every day, but when booking a flight, you might unexpectedly need to call on them.

The app's extra features are just as easy to use. Look to the bottom-right of the app and you'll find a password generator, password health assessment module, and a data breach scanner, and they're all as straightforward as the app's main functions.

NordPass: Passkeys

As more and more websites begin to add passkeys as a login option, password managers are beginning to commit to their adoption, but NordPass has actually already integrated passkey support, making it one of the first.

The desktop application, NordPass Web Vault, and Firefox and Chrome-based browser extensions are already compatible with passkeys, but Safari users will have to wait for a future release to be included. Mobile support is also coming as soon as software makers open up passkeys to third parties.

Passkeys are saved in a separate location from regular passwords, and chances are you’ll still have a vault full of passwords for a long time to come because the few websites that are adopting passkeys are just using them as secondary login methods.

Passkey login and passwordless authentication for accessing NordPass is also in the works, but details are limited at the moment.

(Image credit: NordPass)NordPass: Security

As you would expect from a developer that also offers a VPN, NordPass has a tight security setup. For a start it deploys a zero-knowledge approach, with end-to-end encryption for your password backups and data syncing – that means not even the NordPass team can see the data that you've got saved.

The increasingly well-respected XChaCha20 encryption algorithm is used, which is also a favorite of companies like Google and Cloudflare: it goes up to 256-bit encryption and is seen (by some at least) as a more future-proof solution than the AES-256 encryption commonly used elsewhere.

Biometric security can be added where supported – FaceID or Touch ID on Apple hardware, Windows Hello on a Windows machine, or a fingerprint reader for other smartphones. Two-factor authentication is supported for your NordPass account and the accounts you're storing passwords for. You're also able to use OTP generators or USB sticks to activate multi-factor authentication for added security.

NordPass also operated a blog which it uses to publicize important security tips alongside product announcements. The most common passwords page is particularly revealing, and even some less obvious passwords are at risk of being guessed in a matter of seconds.

(Image credit: NordPass)NordPass: Support

NordPass has an extensive Help Center that covers a gamut of topics. From helping you start with NordPass, managing your passwords, or troubleshooting common issues, the Help Center is your first go-to resource. The articles are detailed, easy to understand, and provide step-by-step guidance, making them an invaluable self-service tool.

For more personalized support, NordPass users can reach out via email. Whether you're encountering a specific issue or have a question that needs to be covered in the Help Center, the NordPass support team is ready to assist. Users can expect thoughtful, precise, and prompt responses. This channel is beneficial for complex issues that require detailed explanations.

NordPass takes its user support significantly with its 24/7 live chat service. This option is perfect for users looking for instant assistance. Whether you're struggling with installing NordPass, facing syncing issues, or need guidance on setting up a family account, the live chat team is always at your disposal. The immediacy and efficiency of live chat support ensure that users can resolve their issues without significant downtime.

Recognizing the power of social media in today's communication landscape, NordPass also offers support through its social media platforms. Users can reach out to NordPass through channels like Twitter for quick questions or updates on service status. This not only makes support accessible but also allows users to stay connected and informed about any new features or updates.

The NordPass Community Forum is a platform where users can share tips solutions, and engage in discussions related to NordPass. While not directly managed by the NordPass support team, these forums are monitored, and staff occasionally chime in. It's a great place to learn from other users’ experiences and share your own, fostering a sense of community among NordPass users.

For users keen on understanding and navigating through potential security issues, NordPass provides security advisories. These advisories detail any discovered vulnerabilities and the company’s steps to address them. It's a testament to NordPass's commitment to transparency and security.

As you can see, NordPass goes above and beyond to ensure that their users receive the support they need when they need it. Through a multi-channel support approach, NordPass caters to the varied preferences and requirements of its user base, ensuring a smooth and secure user experience.

NordPass: The competition

NordPass is one of the most prominent password managers around and, as such, it faces loads of strong competition. Apps like LastPass are good alternatives with similar feature sets and pricing structures, and you'd be well-served by either of those tools.

If you'd like something more affordable but admittedly more basic, a product like mSecure will get the job done – it doesn't have the business options or the high-end features of NordPass, but it ticks mainstream boxes and it's cheaper.

If you’re after the security associated with a company that’s also made a name for itself in the VPN world, then Dashlane or Proton Pass would be good alternatives.

NordPass: Final verdict

We're impressed with what we've seen of NordPass during our testing, and we think it's a great choice for individuals and small-to-mid-sized companies. It balances an aesthetically pleasing design with some useful features and advanced security protection, and it holds up well when you compare it against anything else on the market.

Pricing is competitive, and it's nice to see a free tier available. Negatively, it doesn't have more advanced tools like Wi-Fi syncing and Dark Web scanning, but that shouldn't put you off unless you're looking for a password manager with every possible feature.

NordPass BusinessNordPass Business: Team and Admin features

Business users get a cloud-based admin console to control and regulate password management for their organizations.

As an admin, you can use this console to exercise comprehensive control over user access and permissions. You can also use it to manage and monitor user activities, and ensure that your business’ security policies are enforced consistently.

NordPass Business offers three distinct roles for users to help segregate duties, and control access within the organization.

The Owner has the most privileges, and can manage all aspects of the organization. Then there’s Admin who can access the admin panel, and most of its management functions, but cannot grant or revoke the owner’s rights. Finally, there’s the User whose access is restricted to the NordPass password manager app.

NordPass for Business lets you organize your users in groups, for instance, based on the departments, or projects in the company. You can then share an item with a group, which is automatically made available to all of the group’s members.

In addition to groups, users can also share anything they’ve saved in their vaults, including login credentials, passkeys, secure notes, and more, with other users as well. These shared items can be permission-limited, and there are multiple access levels a user can choose from. Users can hand out full edit permissions, or restrict access to just reshare, or view the shared details.

(Image credit: NordPass)

NordPass for Business also enables admins to define company-wide password policies to enforce strong password requirements. Admins can keep the length of the password between 8 and 60 characters, mandate the use of uppercase letters, digits, and special characters. They can also ensure users are made to change passwords either after 30, 60, 90,or 180 days.

To ensure adherence to the password policy, admins can monitor compliance from the admin panel as well. The panel also has an activity log that tracks actions, such as credential use, and admin panel activity, for every user. The log can be filtered for a particular time period, and/or user.

(Image credit: NordPass)NordPass Business: Integrations and Compatibility

NordPass for Business offers several integrations for organizations of all sizes.

The first and foremost of these is its support for several popular Single Sign-On (SSO) and the best identity providers, including Okta, Entra ID, Google Workspace, and Microsoft Active Directory Federation Service (ADFS).

These help NordPass for Business streamline the authentication process, and also enhance security by reducing the number of credentials your users need to manage. Once enabled, users in your organization can log in using their existing corporate credentials.

Remember though, the Business plan only includes support for Google Workspace SSO. If you need to plug in Okta, Entra ID, or ADFS, you’ll need to subscribe to the Enterprise plan.

To help ensure your company maintains compliance with industry standards, NordPass for Business integrates with platforms like Vanta, and Splunk. While Vanta helps fuse the password manager with your compliance workflows, the latter, which is only available as part of the Enterprise plan, feeds NordPass activity logs into the data analysis platform, for enhanced security monitoring and analysis.

The Enterprise plan also offers an Activity Logs API that enables organizations to integrate activity log data from the password manager with their own Security Information and Event Management (SIEM) systems and other tools. In addition to monitoring, and reporting for internal purposes, this also helps in compliance with standards like SOC 2, ISO 27001, and HIPAA. ​

NordPass Business: Ease of Use and Deployment

Just like its desktop apps and browser plugins for end users, the cloud-based admin panel of NordPass for Business has a clear, and intuitive user interface.

On first launch, the interface will list the most important tasks that must be completed, which is a wonderful way to help new admins take charge of their password management solution.

You’ll be asked to review your policies, both for passwords as we’ve described above, as well as for guest sharing. The latter must be explicitly enabled if you want to allow users in your organization to share passwords and other items with people outside your business, like partners, customers, or contractors.

You can also allow your users to export their passwords, and other items as a CSV file, from the policies section. One interesting option you should enable from under here is email masking. This feature allows your users to generate alternative email addresses to sign up for online services, concealing their true identity, and mitigating phishing attempts..

Next up, you should turn on SSO before you onboard and invite users from across your organization. All your users should also install the NordPass browser extension to import their passwords.

You can also choose to skip the process, and jump right into the Dashboard of the admin panel. From the dashboard you can review the number of users added or invited into the platform. For more control over the users, head to the Members section from where you can arrange users into groups, earmark their access levels, and even invite new ones, or remove existing ones.

Even without SSO, the process for onboarding users is rather straightforward. You can either invite users by specifically mentioning the email address of the users you want to invite, or uploading a CSV or text file with email addresses. Or, you can mention one or more domain names, and anyone with an email address from these domains will be able to join via an invite link.

In either case, the users will receive a link to create their NordPass for Business account, after which they’ll be added into the platform.

(Image credit: NordPass)

One of the most critical areas that you as admins must frequent is the Password Health dashboard. It helps identify weak, reused, or old passwords. There’s also the Data Breach Scanner that scans the dark web for compromised emails, or passwords linked to your company’s domain.

(Image credit: NordPass)

There’s also the Sharing Hub, currently under beta testing, that gives you details about all the shared items within your organization, whether they are shared internally, or externally.

All things considered, the admin panel is a logically laid out interface that gives a good overview of the use of the password management system by employees in your organization.

We've featured the best password recovery software.

What to look for in a password manager

The primary purpose of a password manager is to keep your passwords secure, so top-notch security features are non-negotiable. Look for a manager that offers strong encryption standards, such as AES-256, to ensure your data is safe from prying eyes. Two-factor authentication (2FA) can add an extra layer of security, requiring not just a password and username but also something only the user has on them, like a piece of information or a physical device.

A password manager should make your life easier, not harder. A user-friendly interface that allows you to easily store, retrieve, and organize your passwords can save you time and frustration. Whether it’s a desktop app, mobile app, or browser extension, ensure the user experience is smooth and intuitive.

In today’s interconnected world, we access our accounts from multiple devices like smartphones, tablets, and PCs. A good password manager should be compatible across various platforms and devices, allowing you to access your passwords, whether on an iPhone in the morning or a Windows PC in the evening.

One of the perks of using a password manager is that it can generate strong and unique passwords for you, bypassing the temptation to use easily guessable passwords. Look for a manager with a built-in password generator, which can create complex passwords that are tough for hackers to crack.

A password manager should streamline your browsing experience by automatically filling in your login information when you visit sites and apps. Additionally, look for an auto-save feature that prompts you to save new passwords as you create them, ensuring your password vault is always up-to-date.

While many free password managers offer basic features, investing in a paid version can provide enhanced security and additional features. Evaluate the pricing plans to find one that fits your budget and meets your security needs. Remember, the cost of a password manager is minuscule compared to the potential loss from a cyberattack.

Even with the most intuitive platforms, questions or issues can arise. Good customer support can be invaluable, offering help through resources like FAQs, forums, email support, or live chat. Before committing to a password manager, check out their support options.

Lastly, read the provider’s privacy policy to understand how your data will be used and protected. A trustworthy password manager should have a straightforward policy that ensures they do not misuse your data or provide it to third parties without consent.

Choosing the right password manager is a crucial step in securing your digital life. By considering these features, you can find a tool that not only keeps your passwords safe but also enhances your online experience. Remember, in cybersecurity, being proactive is always better than being reactive.

From the Galaxy S25 series to the Z Fold 7, these are the top Samsung phones we've tested.

• Dell confirmed reports of a break-in by apparent hackers
• World Leaks claimed responsibility, and is demanding payment
• However Dell says the threat actors apparently stole fake data

Dell has confirmed recently suffering a cyberattack which saw threat actors steal of its data, but has added it isn't too concerned by the incident.

The hackers, going by “World Leaks”, are now asking for ransom in exchange for deleting the stolen files.

However, Dell says the stolen files were all fake, signaling that it has no intention of paying the criminals for their troubles.

Synthetic data

In a statement, Dell confirmed the breach, saying the attackers accessed a platform used to demo new products to customers.

"A threat actor recently gained access to our Solution Center, an environment designed to demonstrate our products and test proofs-of-concept for Dell's commercial customers," Dell told BleepingComputer. "It is intentionally separated from customer and partner systems, as well as Dell's networks and is not used in the provision of services to Dell customers."

The statement goes on to explain that the data used in the solution center is “primarily synthetic”, meaning it’s all made up and fake.

It also includes “publicly available datasets used solely for product demonstration purposes or Dell scripts, systems data, non-sensitive information and testing outputs,” Dell added.

“Based on our ongoing investigation, the data obtained by the threat actor is primarily synthetic, publicly available or Dell systems/test data."

World Leaks might be a new name in the ransomware scene, but the actors are rather experienced. The group came as a spin-off from Hunters International, an infamous ransomware player that breached more than 200 organizations during its active years.

Hunters International worked as the usual double-extortion group, first stealing the sensitive files from the victims, and then encrypting their systems to prevent access. World Leaks, on the other hand, ditches the encryption part and focuses solely on data exfiltration.

Many ransomware groups stopped deploying the encryptors lately, as they seem to be expensive to develop and maintain, while simply stealing files brings the same end result.

Via BleepingComputer

You might also like

• NPM users warned dozens of malicious packages aim to steal host and network data
• Take a look at our guide to the best authenticator app
• We've rounded up the best password managers

• Apple CarPlay is set to support video playback
• The update will be added with iOS 26
• However, automakers will need to opt in to the feature

As with every iOS update, iOS 26 will bring with it some changes for the CarPlay interface that appears when your iPhone is connected to your vehicle – and Apple has now quietly confirmed that one of those changes will be support for video playback.

This wasn't mentioned at the grand reveal of iOS 26 at WWDC 2025, but as spotted by MacRumors, it's now listed as a feature on the Apple developers website. We're expecting iOS 26 to roll out to the masses in September.

"AirPlay video in the car enables people to watch their favorite videos from iPhone right on their CarPlay display when they aren't driving," the site says. "Integrate support for CarPlay with AirPlay video to enable this feature in your car."

And that's the catch – automakers will need to enable this feature separately to the rest of the CarPlay functionality, so it's possible that it won't appear in every vehicle, and may be restricted by local safety regulations around the world.

Keeping up

Videos would of course be too distracting for drivers, which is why this will only work when a car is parked up. It's possible that Apple hasn't mentioned it before now because it's not certain how widely this is going to be supported, at least initially.

The AirPlay streaming standard being implemented here is the default one deployed by Apple on its other devices, including the Apple TV 4K box. It's worth noting that while many iOS apps support AirPlay for streaming, Netflix doesn't.

This is a move Apple had to make really: built-in options from automakers like Tesla, BMW, and Mercedes already offer video playback, and the feature is on the way to Android Auto too. Apple won't want its CarPlay interface to fall behind.

We should get more details from Apple in due course. The public beta for iOS 26 is due to launch any day now – which means anyone can test out the software in advance – before it's finalized and pushed out later this year with the iPhone 17 series.

You might also like

• These are the top 5 most exciting iOS 26 features
• Here's what it's like to actually use Apple CarPlay Ultra
• I can't deal with any more bad software rollouts