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There are no reasons to consider picking up a copy of Tamagotchi Plaza, especially if you just got your hands on a Nintendo Switch 2.

Review info

Platform reviewed: Nintendo Switch 2
Available on: Nintendo Switch 2, Nintendo Switch
Release date: June 27, 2025

It’s a basic collection of boring, uninspired minigames that all ultimately just boil down to hitting the same few buttons for minutes at a time. This is paired with a laughably tiny hub world, that’s conspicuously devoid of activities and an absolute nightmare to customize or upgrade.

It all feels like something that you would find in a free mobile phone game, not a $49.99 / £44.99 release for a brand new console.

Sure, the serviceable graphics and abundance of Tamagotchi characters might prove enough to entertain a very small child for an hour or two, but with games like Mario Kart World and recent Donkey Kong Bananza on the scene there’s no real reason not to spend your time and money more wisely and go for one of them instead.

Again and again

(Image credit: Bandai Namco)

A spiritual successor to the Tamagotchi Connection: Corner Shop series on Nintendo DS, Tamagotchi Plaza is ostensibly about helping out in the various shops of a cute Tamagotchi town. This is accomplished through the completion of short minigames, of which there are 12 - one for each shop.

The first thing that you’ll notice is that none of them feature tutorials. You’re just expected to work out what you’re meant to do from the get-go, though this omission isn’t much of an impediment given just how simple the minigames are.

The first I tried involves cooking galettes (the flat, French pastry) by looking at an image of a customer’s desired order and mindlessly hitting buttons to bake the crust and fill it with the desired ingredients.

Accompanied by annoying sound effects which I later found can, mercifully, be turned off in the settings menu and protracted, overly slow animations, it becomes stale almost instantly.

The others are all a similar story: helping out in the personal gym, for example, involves spamming the shoulder buttons at a set pace, while the afternoon tea shop is simply dragging and dropping a few items on a table.

(Image credit: Bandai Namco)

The only one that I find remotely entertaining was the dentist minigame, which has you drilling Tamagotchi teeth to weed out creepy little critters causing decay and even this just involved selecting options from a menu and hitting a button.

On the other end of the spectrum is the manga shop minigame, which is just nonsensical. You’re meant to design manga panels by dragging and dropping a few pre-made assets into position, but the scoring, measured on a scale of zero to three stars, doesn’t seem to correlate to anything other than how many characters you manage to cram on the screen.

If you keep grinding a particular minigame enough, you’re eventually offered the chance to upgrade it. This introduces some new options, which does break up the monotony somewhat, but takes quite a long time to appear and isn’t substantial enough to justify the effort.

Switch it up

(Image credit: Bandai Namco)

There are three additional minigames exclusive to the Nintendo Switch 2 version of the game too. They’re unlocked after you’ve spent some time in the initial 12 and utilize the Joy-Con 2 mouse control features. These are the strongest of the bunch, with the likes of the shuriken shop which has you using the Joy-Con 2 to aim ninja stars providing a few minutes of fun.

Unfortunately, it’s not enough to redeem the overall package and is nowhere near as interesting as some of the neat hardware tricks found in software like Nintendo Switch 2 Welcome Tour.

Best bit

(Image credit: Bandai Namco)

There are more than 100 Tamagotchi characters here, with unique models and even the odd bit of dialogue.

Outside of minigames, there’s a small hub area to explore. Aside from the occasional conversation with another Tamagotchi, it’s empty and bland. You can upgrade it using currency earned from minigames, but progress is painfully slow and adding a few trees or the odd square here and there just isn’t worth the effort.

There’s also some light story content, centred around the protagonist being recruited to help improve the town so that it’s selected as the site of the Tamagotchi festival, but it’s basic and spread incredibly thin.

At the very least, I can say that Tamagotchi Plaza has no shortage of characters. There are more than a hundred Tamagotchis to discover, all with unique models that look quite nice. I just wish that this same amount of effort was put into literally every other facet of the game too.

Should I play Tamagotchi Plaza?Play it if…

You find it super cheap
Tamagotchi Plaza might be worth buying if you find it at a heavy discount. The time spent trying each of the minigames a few times could justify a few bucks if you’re shopping for a child.

Don’t play it if…

You’re more than four years old
There’s no way that anything in Tamagotchi Plaza could entertain anyone over the age of about four. If you’re able to read this, I would recommend giving it a miss.

Accessibility

There are no accessibility features in Tamagotchi Plaza. In fact, there’s barely a settings menu at all. You can adjust the game’s volume (with separate settings for music, sound, and voices) and change the direction of the camera controls, but that’s it.

How I reviewed Tamagotchi Plaza

I subjected myself to more than four hours of Tamagotchi Plaza on Nintendo Switch 2, which is roughly four hours more than any reasonable person would play it for.

I tried every minigame in the package, and spent some time exploring the tiny world. I carefully evaluated the amount of fun that I was having at every juncture and compared my experience to my testing of other Nintendo Switch 2 games like Donkey Kong Bananza and Mario Kart World.

First reviewed July 2025

• Apple TV+ has just released the first trailer for Platonic season 2
• It stars Seth Rogen and Rose Byrne, with Luke Macfarlane, Carla Gallo, Aidy Bryant, Kyle Mooney, Beck Bennett and Milo Manheim joining as newcomers
• The first two episodes are released on August 6, 2025

Buckle up, comedy fans! The hit Apple TV+ show Platonic season 2 is almost here, dropping its first two episodes on August 6. Starring Seth Rogen and Rose Byrne as best friends Will and Sylvia, we can expect a 10-episode run to take us all the way to the beginning of October. That’s a lot of laughs waiting for us over the next few months, and the new trailer is no exception.

The show follows the pair as they contend with midlife hurdles, whether that be at work or at weddings – they’re partners in crises. As Apple TV+ puts it: “The duo tries their best to be each other’s rock – but sometimes rocks break things.” We’ve got some new stars joining the roster this time too, with Luke Macfarlane, Carla Gallo Aidy Bryant, Kyle Mooney, Beck Bennett and Milo Manheim all adding their weight in gold to new episodes.

We all know Apple TV+ is one of the best streaming services around for original content, and the Platonic season 2 trailer proves that the studio can up the stakes of what we saw the first time around in 2023. All I need is a pair of novelty sunglasses and a Hawaiian shirt, and I’m ready to watch new episodes of the hit comedy when they drop.

Platonic season 2 is almost here, and Apple TV+’s first trailer already looks wild

Don’t get it twisted – Will and Sylvia are still very much besties as far as the Platonic season 2 trailer is concerned. However, it also hints that their friendship could be hitting the rocks sooner than we might like. "Will and I always get screwy when he's in a couple," Sylvia tells husband Charlie (Luke Macfarlane) in the clip. "I don't wanna lose him again. If I were to replace him now, it would take 25 years for me and this new friend to catch up to where Will and I are and by then I'm practically dead and who cares?"

But before we can even worry about getting that far, there’s a whole host of chaos coming our way. A greased up McFarlane is seen flexing his muscles in a white tank top while trying to get Will in shape (frankly, this is enough of a reason to tune in by itself), Sylvia throwing some shapes on a party dancefloor in a way reminiscent of Byrne’s Bridesmaids days, and an epic golfing accident turned into a buggy getaway mission, sporting a bleeding eye. The just over two minute trailer has enough twists that it will give you whiplash.

With such an enjoyable balance between flat-out comedy and relatability, everyone should be excited about having new episodes to binge. Rogan and Byrne’s chemistry is second to none, the writing is well-rounded and self-assured (though we were reminded of this recently by Rogen’s other TV show, The Studio) and as an ensemble, the performances are off the hook. We more than deserve a laugh this summer (for those of us in the northern hemisphere at least), so thank you, Will and Sylvia, for coming to our rescue.

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• NextLadder Ventures is a 15-year, $1 billion initiative to help 90 million low-income Americans
• Grants, equity and revenue-based financing will be on offer to eligible participants
• Anthropic will offer Claude credits and support worth $1.5 million annually

NextLadder Ventures has launched a $1 billion initiative to help support low-income Americans, arming them with AI skills for future employment opportunities.

The initiative was founded by a coalition of major philanthropies, including Ballmer Group, Gates Foundation, Stand Together, Valhalla Foundation and John Overdeck.

It's set to run for 15 years, providing grants, equity and revenue-based financing to nonprofits and for-profits to help support at-risk Americans, with Anthropic joining as its inaugural AI partner offering Claude credits and expert support.

Gates Foundation backs $1 billion AI initiative

The Gates Foundation described NextLadder Ventures as an "initiative grounded in the belief that every American has the potential to achieve economic prosperity."

"While innovative ideas exist to help low-income Americans overcome obstacles and pursue prosperity, there is insufficient capital available to those serving these populations," its press release says.

The initiative aims to expand economic opportunities for over 90 million low-income Americans, supporting entrepreneurs who want to address job loss, housing instability and health crises. As part of the deal, Anthropic will contribute about $1.5 million annually.

"The Gates Foundation is focused on lifting millions of people out of poverty and onto a path to prosperity," Gates Foundation CEO Mark Suzman commented.

The coalition announced Ryan Rippel as the CEO of NextLadder Ventures. Rippel, who already has a history working with the Gates Foundation, challenged the notion of a one-size-fits-all approach, pledging new and practical pathways. His "design with, not for" stance comes from growing up in a single-parent household in Missouri, where he was able to experience some of the struggles NextLadder Ventures aims to solve.

In a LinkedIn post, Rippel wrote: "Closing this divide means helping the helpers and the people they serve access new, practical pathways to opportunity."

Further details on NextLadder Ventures are limited, but we expect to hear more in the coming weeks.

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Dune Awakening is a survival MMO from the creators of Conan: Exiles. It aims to adapt the iconic series of sci-fi books, giving players the challenge of surviving on Arrakis, the most dangerous planet in the Universe. Currently, it's out on PC, with a console release planned in the future.

In Dune Awakening, you'll awaken as The Sleeper, before you are cast out into the desert with little more than a knife to your name. From there you can gather, craft, and build up your own Guild, fending off giant sandworms and other players as you try to control the flow of Spice on the planet's surface.

It's certainly shaping up to be one of the most exciting upcoming games on console, now that the PC version is out and well-reviewed. We've even played Dune Awakening, and you can read our full verdict in our Dune Awakening review for PC.

Here's what we know about Dune Awakening on console so far, including a look at the story and setting, gameplay, latest trailers, news, and everything else we know right now. As more details are revealed, this page will be updated.

Dune Awakening - cut to the chase

• What is it? An MMO set in the world of Dune
• When can I play it? Out now (Steam), TBC 2026 (PS5, Xbox)
• What can I play it on? PC (out now), PS5, Xbox Series X|S (TBC)
• Who makes it? Funcom

Dune Awakening release date and platforms

(Image credit: Funcom)

Dune Awakening launched June 10, 2025 for PC (Steam). It's also planned to come to PlayStation 5 as well as Xbox Series X|S, currently scheduled for sometime in 2026.

Recently, developer Funcom released a short video over on Steam, detailing how it intends to handle the launch of the game, and its monetization moving forward.

Joel Bylos, Dune: Awakening Creative Director, outlined the plans, stating: "The key things that you need to know about Dune: Awakening's launch are that it will not launch in early access and it will not have a monthly subscription. It will receive regular free updates, including new content, new features, and quality-of-life improvements."

Here are the highlights from the rest of the video:

• It will not be in Early Access, this is the full launch
• It will not have a subscription
• The game will continue to be expanded through free updates, bringing new content, features, and enhancements
• There will be optional paid DLCs

Dune Awakening trailers

The latest trailer for Dune Awakening provides a deeper look at open-world exploration on the planet Arrakis. You can view it below:

A trailer for Dune Awakening was released on February 20, 2025. It revealed the game's PC release date, and showed off gameplay. Check it out below:

Another trailer Dune Awakening was aired during Gamescom 2024. It was a massive gameplay deep dive, check it out below:

Another trailer for Dune Awakening was revealed on June 8, 2024, alongside a new developer direct presentation. Check out the story trailer below:

We've included some more Dune Awakening trailers throughout this article, but if you're hungry for more you should visit Funcom's official YouTube channel. The most interesting to look out for are the Shigawire Reels, a series of short videos explaining different aspects of the lore.

Dune Awakening story and setting

Dune Awakening is an MMO set in the world of Frank Herbert's Dune series. It takes place on the desert planet of Arrakis, where a royal family called House Atreides has settled to take control. After a swift betrayal, the political landscape of Arrakis is sent into chaos, with multiple factions warring over the control of the planet's primary resource, the Spice. Spice grants extrasensory abilities in the world of Dune, allowing pilots to navigate long-term space expeditions and more. It's only found on Arrakis, so has been the source of conflict for millennia.

You play as The Sleeper awakened and forced out into the brutal desert environment. As you progress, you'll set up your own House Minor, and can then align with one of the major powers fighting for control of the region. It's been revealed that you'll meet characters from the books and films during Dune Awakening's story, though for now, we don't know the specifics.

Dune Awakening gameplay

(Image credit: Funcom)

When you start Dune Awakening, you are cast into the desert, with nothing but a scrap knife at your disposal. Enemy camps can be looted to slowly gather materials to help you survive, as you build up an assortment of tech, weaponry, and survival gear. Arrakis is described as 'the most dangerous planet in the Universe', and it's clear that Dune Awakening aims to focus on survival mechanics to emphasize this.

Water is more valuable than gold on Arrakis, and you'll constantly need to make sure you have enough not only to survive but to thrive as well. Once you start building up your Guild, you will need water for industrial purposes, all with the ultimate goal of capturing and controlling pockets of Spice.

Environmental hazards are plentiful in Dune Awakening, with huge sandstorms constantly raging on the surface of the planet. These are best avoided at first, but once you have a fleet of vehicles and more resources, you can use the storms to your advantage. Ground vehicles include sandbikes and tanks, and then there are aerial vehicles as well. Ornithopters can be used to traverse great distances and to avoid the giant sandworms that can ambush you on the ground.

Combat is referred to as 'Combined Arms', and consists of melee (swords and knives), ranged (guns), vehicular (ground and air vehicles), and abilities (sorcery). These are all used in tandem, and the player can decide what to focus on. Dune Awakening is primarily a PvE game, with multiple players on the same server co-existing and looting separately. There's also a PvP aspect, in that players can attack each other and fight over resources like Spice.

Dune Awakening latest news

Console release planned for 2026
In a press release celebrating the PC launch of Dune Awakening on PC, developer Funcom revealed that the console versions are expected sometime in 2026 (via IGN).

Dune Awakening delayed to June 10
After feedback from recent beta testers, Funcom has made the decision to delay Dune Awakening to June 10. You can read the full details in this Tweet.

Here's Dune Awakening running with NVIDIA DLSS 4
A new trailer for Dune Awakening was revealed at CES 2024. It shows the game running in 4K on an RTX 5090, and compares versions with and without NVIDIA DLSS 4.

New Dune Awakening Direct details PvP and more
The latest Dune Awakening Direct aired on June 20, 2024. It detailed PvP, safe zones and the game's alternate history timeline. You can watch it here.

The first Dune Awakening: Direct shows off the game's approach to worldbuilding
Funcom has released the very first Dune Awakening: Direct, which shows off new gameplay, and a look at how the games have adapted stories from Frank Herbert's novels. Check out the worldbuilding showcase here (links to YouTube).

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• New proposals look to secure subsea cables against foreign adversaries
• This includes a default denial of contracts to Chinese firms
• Subsea cables carry 99% of internet traffic

A recent proposal by the FCC outlines plans to ‘unleash submarine cable investment’ in order to ‘accelerate the buildout of AI infrastructure’ across the US, whilst also making efforts to, ‘secure cables against foreign adversaries, like China’.

If adopted, this could mean a range of measures would be implemented to protect submarine cables, applying a ‘presumption of denial’ for adversarial state applicants for controlled licenses, and establishing physical and cybersecurity requirements, as well as restricting leasing agreements to these organizations.

Alongside this, the report proposes a ban on the use of ‘covered equipment’ in undersea cable infrastructure - although the report doesn’t give a definition of the term.

Unsung heroes

Sabotage to submarine cables would be undoubtedly catastrophic, not just to the US, but to pretty much every part of the world.

The cables carry 99% of all internet traffic, handling roughly $10 trillion of daily financial transactions.

Satellite technology, though active, is not yet capable of handling the same volume of traffic. As FCC Chairman Brendan Carr described, undersea cables are the ‘unsung heroes of global communications’.

There is precedent for this type of order, with Huawei and ZTE facing ‘rip and replace’ campaigns back in 2020 in a bid to remove Chinese tech from the infrastructure of rural operators, as part of a larger effort to exclude Chinese vendors from the US market.

“As the U.S. builds out the data centers and other infrastructure necessary to lead the world in AI and next-gen technologies, these cables are more important than ever. At the same time, as President Trump has long recognized: ‘economic security is national security,’ says Chairman Carr.

“We have seen submarine cable infrastructure threatened in recent years by foreign adversaries, like China. We are therefore taking action here to guard our submarine cables against foreign adversary ownership, and access as well as cyber and physical threats.”

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A graphic-novel adaptation from Argentina already used AI to generate final footage, Netflix's CEO says.

If you watched the launch of OpenAI’s new ChatGPT Agent, or you’re a Plus, Pro or Teams user who has had a chance to try out the new ‘agent mode’ in the tools drop-down list, it’s hard not to be impressed with the latest AI innovation.

ChatGPT Agent is designed to do complex real-world tasks for you. Think about things like planning a wedding, booking your car in for a service, making an app to solve a problem, or planning and booking a holiday.

Just like OpenAI’s previous agent called Operator, ChatGPT Agent acts like a real person who works for you, performing tasks as if they had their own computer. In fact, you can watch what’s happening on its ‘desktop’ as it performs these tasks - you can see it dragging windows around, and entering data into forms on websites, for example.

The entire concept is a unified agent that can handle the legwork, make informed decisions about which websites to use, and navigate the web independently. ChatGPT Agent can do it all, and you can even watch it work if you want to, but there is a catch...

A new world of threats

Its the powerful abilities of ChatGPT Agent that open you up to a whole new world of security threats:

“As we know, the Internet can be a scary place” said Casey Chu in the ChatGPT Agent launch presentation, “there are all sorts of hackers trying to steal your information, scams, phishing attempts, and Agent isn’t immune to all these things.”

Well, that’s worrying. He went on:

“One particular thing we’re worried about is a new attack called ‘prompt injections’. Agent might stumble upon a malicious website that asks it to enter your credit card information here because it will help you with your task, and Agent, which is trained to be helpful, might decide that’s a good idea. “

It sounds like we’re all going to have to worry not only about ourselves getting phished in the Future, but we’re also going to have to worry about our AIs also getting phished as well!

“We’ve done a lot of work to try to ensure that this doesn’t happen”, continued Chu, “we train our model to ignore suspicious instructions on suspicious websites. We also have layers of monitors that peer over the agent’s shoulder and watch it as it's going and stop the trajectory of anything that looks suspicious.”

My first thought upon hearing this was that I would never give ChatGPT Agent my credit card information anyway, but I definitely would not do it now. I mean, the only reason that my credit card resides with Amazon and Apple is that they seem like secure places to me, so the convenience is worth it, but all it would take would be a hint that they weren’t safe and I, probably along with millions of other people, wouldn’t be storing my credit card information with them.

The OpenAI team launching ChatGPT Agent. (Image credit: OpenAI)Trust is everything

With online security, trust is everything. The idea that an AI agent, no matter how many background checks it is doing, is autonomously deciding what I spend my money on already fills me with dread. And when you add in the factor that there could be malicious sites out there doing ‘prompt injections’ to try and trick my AI into giving away information, it scares me enough not to want to trust it.

It should be noted that there is a ‘takeover mode’ with ChatGPT Agent where you input the sensitive information directly into the browser yourself, instead of handing it over to ChatGPT Agent to control. That would seem like a better way to use an agent to me. I don’t think I’m quite at the stage yet where I’m ready to give my AI the power to spend my money as it sees fit, and I bet I’m not the only one.

OpenAI seems quite upfront about the risks involved in using ChatGPT Agent with sensitive information, and as CEO Sam Altman said in the presentation, this is emerging technology, and we don’t even know what all the threats will be yet. We’ll just have to see what happens as people start to use it.

But that’s what’s got me the most worried - what happens when people start using AI to beat AI? I’m sure the hackers won’t be shying away from using AI to circumvent our security protocols, and AI will probably come up with a number of attacks we haven't even thought of yet.

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The Humanscale Float Micro is the smallest Humanscale desk, offering a beautiful and straightforward workspace for a laptop or notebook, but not much more. It's a minimalist side table that can easily slide over a couch, making it an excellent solution for short working sessions, but not a fantastic option for a dedicated workspace. While this is a premium piece in every way, the functionality is nice.

The mechanics are smooth, the materials are incredibly high quality, and the design is quite aesthetically pleasing. Suppose you're looking for a multi-functional end table that can transform your living space, reading nook, family room, or other area into a compact workspace in a pinch, or for some light work on vacation. In that case, this desk is a spectacular way to do it -- just know there's a price that comes with such a design and company.

Humanscale is a company I have been familiar with for a while, and it has always been associated with luxury in my mind. I am hoping to see more of their gear in person in the future, but for now, the Humanscale Float Micro is an excellent introduction to who they are and what they do.

This is the smallest desk I have ever seen as an independent product. I have seen smaller workspaces, such as the seat-back table on an airplane, but I have never seen one this small as a standalone item. Nevertheless, this is still more expensive than most desks on the list of best standing desks. This communicates that Humanscale is a high-end, luxury brand. Some companies can afford to have a hefty price tag, and from what I can see so far, Humanscale is one of those companies. Their materials are phenomenal, the build quality is spectacular, the functionality is superb, and the design is beautiful.

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future )Humanscale Float Micro: Pricing and Availability

The Humanscale Float Micro has models available for around $765, but some models and specifications are currently being sold for $ 1,300. These desks ship directly from Humanscale and offer a variety of accessories, including locking casters, as options. There are several colorways and a couple of material options to choose from, all of which affect the pricing of the Float Micro.

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future )Humanscale Float Micro: Unboxing & first impressions

The Humanscale Float Micro had the most straightforward assembly process of any product I have ever received. And I am being genuinely honest about that. It arrived fully assembled, and all I had to do was cut the box open, pull out the desk, and start adjusting the size to what I wanted.

From the first moment I touched the desk, I realized the materials were premium and of high quality. I even noticed, without seeing the price tag, that this desk was going to be a more premium offering due to its materials and design language.

I understand that some homes, offices, and areas may not be able to accommodate a dedicated workspace, and while I genuinely enjoy building out workspaces, some people are not in a position to have one. That's where something like this comes along. It transforms any space into a spot to get some work done on your laptop in no time at all, and with minimal effort.

Humanscale Float Micro: Design & Build Quality

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future )Specs

Height range: 23″–41″
Footprint: 80″ × 80″, 27.5″ deep wings
Weight capacity: 12 lbs
Motors: Pneumatic Cylinder

As I mentioned earlier, the build quality of this desk is exquisite. The height adjustment, while not electric, is spring-assisted and incredibly smooth. I understand that they would not want to add an electric function to this desk, as it would require stepping back in terms of simplicity and ease of use by introducing the need for power input. However, at the same time, it would be nice.

Instead, the desk utilizes a pneumatic lifting system, which is still nearly instantaneous and is much easier to maintain, as well as more manageable to work with.

The desk's offset design is also an interesting feature. After very brief use, I can tell that it's offset to fit under furniture more easily, making this a great idea yet again for a living space or a multi-purpose area.

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future )Humanscale Float Micro: In use

I've used this simple desk in a few areas. I have used it in my living room for exactly what I expect this has been made for, to add a steady workspace for my laptop while I am on the couch. I have also used this in my office as a workspace from a comfy chair in the corner.

I have used this in a more traditional workspace to help with making a desk for a meeting area that did not have enough desks, and I have used it in other odd places as a height-adjustable end table, or desk all without having any issues with the desk itself. The hight range seems to be great, the design fits in anywhere and when adding my laptop I have a great amount of space, making it so I can put my iPad mini, iPhone or something simple on the desktop with me, allowing for functional work.

I even wanted to test this desk a bit, so I took the desk and used it at one of the companies I work with and tried to build out a desk system on it. I mounted power to the underside of the desktop, I added a vertical monitor on a monitor arm, and then an iMac to the main function of the desk, plugging into a docking station that I also mounted under the desktop. Even with this full setup on the desk, I could still fit a mouse, keyboard and had enough wiggle room to still use the mouse appropriately.

Attributes

Notes

Rating

Design

Sleek and minimal

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Ease of use

Very easy to use

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Practicality

Practical for some

⭐⭐⭐⭐

Price

Highly priced

⭐⭐⭐⭐

Humanscale Float Micro: Final verdict

The Humanscale Float Micro is a unique desk. It's premium, yet tiny. It's functional yet minimalist. All the while, it's expensive, but clearly premium and it will clearly last. So, if you are looking for a simple desk to add to your living room, co-working space, comfy chair, or in other areas, you should check out the Humanscale Float Micro on Humanscale's website, today.

For more pro essentials, we've reviewed the best office chairs for comfort and ergonomics.

Fujifilm X-E5: two-minute review

The Fujifilm X-E5 is a significant leap forward for Fujifilm’s X-E series, elevating it from its budget-friendly beginnings to the loftier heights of the mid-range.

At $1,699 / £1,299 / AU$2,699 body-only it’s significantly pricier than its predecessor. But that hike brings with it some serious upgrades – and not only in the shape of the 40.2MP X-Trans CMOS 5 sensor (which is the same as the one you’ll find in the X100VI).

Design-wise the X-E5 nails the retro look, and with its aluminum top plate and minimalist controls it really feels like a premium product. Compact, handsome and lightweight, it’s ideal for travel and street shooters, and the new Film Simulation dial and customizable front lever give it added control finesse. That said, the camera isn’t weather-sealed and offers limited grip, making it less suited to challenging environments or big lenses.

The viewfinder and touchscreen feel slightly outdated, too. The OLED EVF is small and lacks the crispness I’ve seen on some rivals, while the flip-up screen can be obstructed by accessories in the hot shoe, which could be an annoyance for vloggers and video shooters. That said, I found both to be functional for stills photography.

The X-E5 can be purchased in a bundle with this nifty, space-saving 23mm pancake lens. (Image credit: Future | Sam Kieldsen)

The star addition to the feature list is in-body image stabilization (IBIS), appearing for the first time in the X-E line. It’s a game changer for low-light shooting and handheld video, at least compared with the X-E4. The autofocus system has been upgraded too, and now offers subject tracking not only for humans but animals, vehicles and more.

Shooting performance is solid: 20fps burst with electronic shutter (with crop), 13fps uncropped or 8fps with the mechanical shutter. And thanks to the inclusion of 20 of Fuji’s signature Film Simulation modes, it's easy to get incredible-looking shots straight out of the camera. The color science, as with all X-series cameras, is a real strong point.

Video quality is excellent, with 6.2K 30p and 4K 60p 10-bit capture, including access to F-Log profiles for added dynamic range. But there are caveats: the camera tends to overheat with extended video shooting, it lacks a proper headphone jack, and that tilting screen remains an ergonomic obstacle for self-shooters. For me the X-E5 is best thought of as a photography-first tool, with video as a very capable bonus feature.

In short, the Fujifilm X-E5 is a compact and beautifully built mirrorless camera that delivers superb images, reliable autofocus and welcome stabilization. It's not cheap, and it's not perfect (video-first shooters and all-weather adventurers should look elsewhere), but for travel, street and everyday stills photography, it's a delight.

Fujifilm X-E5: price and availability

• $1,699 / £1,299 / AU$2,699 body-only
• Significantly pricier than X-E4 was at launch
• Available in a kit with new XF23mm lens

The Fujifilm X-E5 was launched on June 12 2025, alongside a new pancake lens, the XF23mmF.28 R WR.

Pricing starts at $1,699 / £1,299 / AU$2,699 body-only, or $1,899 / £1,549 / AU$3,049 for a bundle with the lens. Perhaps the most notable thing about the price is how much higher it is than the Fujifilm X-E4’s was at launch: it cost $949 / £799 / AU$1,399 body-only, or $1,049 / £949 / AU$1,799 in a kit with a pancake lens. Yes, that was back in 2021, but this is still a significant increase that far outstrips inflation.

There are various factors that affect pricing, from general inflation to recently introduced tariffs. However, I think the main reason for the bump here is simply that Fujifilm deems the X-E5 is a more premium product than its predecessor – and given the improvements made to features and spec, it’s hard to argue with that.

It’s clear that the X-E5 isn’t the entry-level option the X-E4 was; this is now very much a mid-range option. I think the price reflects that, and I think the lens bundle in particular represents a pretty good deal.

• Price score 4/5

Fujifilm X-E5: specs

Sensor:

40.2MP X-Trans CMOS 5 HR APS-C

Video:

6.2K 30p, 4K 60p, FHD 240p, 10-bit

Cont. shooting:

Up to 20fps electronic shutter, up to 8fps mechanical shutter

Viewfinder:

2.36m-dot OLED

LCD:

3-inch 1.62m-dot tilting touchscreen

Battery (CIPA rating):

Up to 400 shots or 45 minutes of video capture

Weight:

445g / 15.7oz

Dimensions:

124.9 x 72.9 x 39.1mm / 4.92 x 2.87 x 1.54 inches

Fujifilm X-E5: design and handling

• Weighs just 535g / 18.9oz with XF23mm lens
• Not weatherproof
• Tilting touchscreen and OLED viewfinder

The Fujifilm X-E5 sports similar rangefinder styling to previous models in the series, but with some big advances in design and build quality. As soon as I picked up the camera I realized it felt nothing like a plasticky 'budget' option; it’s solid and hefty, thanks to the new aluminum top plate, while the included braided rope strap looks and feels very modish indeed.

I still found the camera body to be compact and lightweight for a mirrorless model however, and with the new pancake lens attached it makes for a strikingly portable setup that I think would be perfect for street or travel photography. I should say, though, that despite its build-quality improvements this still isn’t a fully weather-sealed camera, so should be used cautiously in rainy conditions. I think that’s a shame, as it somewhat detracts from its travel-friendly nature.

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The compact size and flat body shape have an impact on ergonomics, of course; there’s not a great deal to grip onto here bar a small moulded bump at the front and back on the right side. With a small lens attached things feel comfortable enough, but I suspect fitting larger lenses will result in balance and handling challenges. This camera certainly seems designed for use with small primes and short zooms rather than longer, heavier lenses.

Controls-wise, things remain fairly minimalist, particularly on the rear of the camera – that’s always been typical of the X-E series and I think it suits the aesthetic well, and I had few problems accessing settings I wished to change.

There are a couple of notable additions I really enjoyed using: firstly, the Film Simulation dial on the top plate, which displays the current selection through a little circular window and supports up to three custom recipes plus the standard range of Fuji’s film-aping filters.

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Second is the lever on the front – a feature borrowed from X100- and X-Pro series cameras. It can be customized to suit the user’s preferences, adding a great deal of additional control to what appears to be a very controls-light camera.

The X-E5’s rear touchscreen and viewfinder feel outdated alongside other recent cameras. The screen, for instance, has a flip-up design rather than full tilt-and-swivel vari-angle, which means it can be blocked by anything mounted on the hot shoe when flipped up to face forward. Got a flash or shotgun mic fitted? You won’t be able to see much of the screen. Other than that, I found it bright, sharp and easy to use.

The OLED viewfinder is small and fairly low-resolution compared with say, the Fujifilm X100VI’s, and its eyepiece does little to block out exterior distractions. That’s not to say it’s not perfectly serviceable – it just seems a little behind the times.

Storage is courtesy of a single SD card slot alongside the battery slot on the bottom of the camera, while physical connections comprise a 3.5mm mic/remote input, a USB-C port for charging, storage and headphone hook-up, and micro HDMI.

• Design and handling score 4/5

Fujifilm X-E5: features and performance

• 5-axis sensor-shift IBIS now included
• Subject-detection autofocus recognizing animals, cars and more
• Continuous shooting up to 20fps

Perhaps the biggest feature upgrade the X-E5 boasts over its predecessor is five-axis in-body stabilization (IBIS). The X-E4 had no internal mechanism to counter camera shake, so IBIS is a significant boost to its capabilities.

The sensor-shifting mechanism adds up to seven stops of compensation according to Fujifilm, and I found it very useful for slower shutter speed photos (i.e., in low-light conditions) and handheld video capture. It would have been nice to have some longer lenses to test with it, but I have no complaints about its effectiveness with the 24mm pancake.

As well as the sensor-shift tech, users also have the option to use two further digital stabilization modes for video capture, which apply a successive crop to the image.

Continuous shooting has been slowed down slightly from the X-E4, albeit only in electronic shutter mode, and perhaps as a result of the X-E5’s higher sensor resolution, it can’t match the X-E4’s 30fps maximum speed. It can now shoot at up to 20fps in this mode (which applies a 1.29x crop to the image), at up to 13fps electronically with no crop, or at up to 8fps with the mechanical shutter (also uncropped). That’s perfectly respectable in my book, particularly as those speeds are now paired with a much improved autofocus setup.

The X-E4 had human face and eye detection and tracking, but the X-E5 adds subject detection for animals, birds, cars, motorcycles, bikes, airplanes and trains. In testing I found that it reliably tracked moving subjects across the frame, and as they moved towards or away from the camera or in and out of view. It might not quite match the speed and laser-like accuracy of the systems on the latest high-end Canon, Sony or Nikon cameras, but it’s a good, dependable setup.

Battery life doesn’t look particularly impressive on paper, with the X-E5 having a CIPA rating of 400 shots or just 45 minutes of video recording on a full charge. But in practice (shooting mainly photos) I found it felt fairly generous, and rarely had to recharge the camera during my time with it.

Perhaps yet more evidence that this is a photography-first camera is that it has a tendency to overheat and shut down when used to shoot longer video clips. I set the video quality to 4K 60fps and found that the X-E5 only managed to record 14.5 minutes before turning itself off to cool down.

• Features and performance score: 4/5

Fujifilm X-E5: image and video quality

• 40.2MP X-Trans CMOS 5 APS-C sensor
• 4:2:2 10-bit video up to 6.2K and 14-bit RAW photo capture
• 20 customizable Film Simulation modes

The X-E5 is built around a 40.2MP APS-C sensor that represents a fairly large resolution jump over the X-E4’s 26MP sensor. It’s the same sensor as you’ll find in the highly coveted Fujifilm X100VI compact, but instead of that camera's fixed lens you can use any piece of X-mount glass you like.

As well as its 40.2MP stills (which can be captured in JPEG or 14-bit raw), the X-E5 can capture video at up to 6.2K 30fps or 4K 60fps 4:2:2 10-bit quality, plus Full HD at up to 240fps for slow-motion playback.

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I’m hugely impressed with the X-E5’s photography performance. As mentioned above, it comes with a selection of film simulation modes (20 in all), allowing users to instantly give their images a style and aesthetic reminiscent of analog film types.

My personal favorite, going back to my time using the Fujifilm X-Pro 2 almost a decade ago, has always been Classic Chrome, and I found myself defaulting to it as my go-to setting for standard shots. But there are plenty of other interesting Film Simulations that I enjoyed testing too, like the desaturated Eterna Bleach Bypass and the ultra-punchy monochrome Acros, which can be set with yellow, red, or green filters to further enhance its look.

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There are plenty of options in the menus for adjusting these Simulation recipes in order to find results you like, or you can of course just shoot in raw and process the images yourself in Lightroom or similar. I also tried this, and found the huge raw files provided superb platforms for heavy image adjustments and corrections. Whether you want a camera that produces excellent point-and-shoot results or gives you the basis for heavy editing, the X-E5 fits the bill.

Video quality is also excellent, and offers videographers the same selection of Film Simulation modes as well as F-Log and F-Log2, two flat profiles that work as a solid base for color grading and correction in post-production. It also supports bit rates of up to 200Mbps. There are several reasons why the X-E5 isn’t ideal for video (the lack of a 3.5mm headphone socket, the tilting screen being blocked by anything on the hotshoe, the tendency to overheat), but actual image quality isn’t one.

• Image and video quality score: 4.5/5

(Image credit: Future | Sam Kieldsen)Fujifilm X100VI: Test scorecardFujifilm X100VI

Attributes

Notes

Rating

Price

A big price bump over the X-E4, but given the improvements it feels warranted.

4 / 5

Design

Stylish and compact, with more metal than previous X-E models – but not weatherproof.

4 / 5

Feature and performance

Image stabilization and autofocus are excellent, even if other aspects are a little more average.

4 / 5

Image quality

A superb sensor and winning color science deliver superb images straight out of the camera.

4.5 / 5

Should I buy the Fujifilm X-E5?

(Image credit: Future | Sam Kieldsen)Buy it if...

You want a chic, ultra-compact mirrorless camera
The X-E5 is small, lightweight and handsome – and its X-mount means it can be used with lots of excellent lenses, so it’s more versatile than most premium compact cameras.

You primarily shoot with small or lightweight lenses
Balance-wise, the X-E5’s body is more suited to small primes and zooms than larger, heavier lenses. If you’re a sports or wildlife photographer, you may find the handling unwieldy with those longer lenses.

You adore Fujifilm’s color science
Fujifilm’s Film Simulation modes are color magic, and the X-E5’s nifty selection dial makes them easier to choose (and use) than on any other Fujifilm camera to date.

Don't buy it if...

You’re primarily a video shooter
While video quality is excellent, the X-E5’s design imposes some limitations on videographers that may cause frustration. It’s fine for the odd clip, but making a film on it would be a struggle.

You need to shoot in all conditions
The lack of weather sealing is a concern here, particularly for those buying the X-E5 as a travel camera. It’s a pity it can’t be used in rain showers or in dusty desert conditions.

You're seeking a cheap entry-level camera
The X-E4 was relatively inexpensive, but the X-E5 feels like a mid-range model and comes with a price tag to match. Cheap it most certainly isn’t.

Fujifilm X100VI: Also consider

(Image credit: Future / Tim Coleman)

If our Fujifilm X-E5 review has inspired you to think about other options, here are two other cameras to consider…

Fujifilm X100VI
The X100VI is one of the most desirable compact cameras around, and it’s based on the same processor as the X-E5, but has a fixed lens. The X100VI may be a little less versatile as a result, but its 23mm f/2 lens, LED flash and better screen and viewfinder definitely make it worth a look.

Read our in-depth Fujifilm X100VI review

Nikon Zf
Oozing retro charm, the Zf is available at a similar price to the X-E5 but comes with flagship-level stabilization, burst speeds, autofocus and more, with a raft of new features recently being added via firmware update. It’s also got a full-frame sensor, with all the advantages that brings.

Read our in-depth Nikon Zf review

How I tested the Fujifilm X-E5

• I used the camera and new XF23mm f/2.8 lens over two-week period
• I tested them in various lighting conditions
• I focused mainly on still photography, but shot video too

Fujifilm loaned me the X-E5 and new Fujinon XF23mm f/2.8 pancake lens for a period of two weeks, which gave me plenty of time to field-test the camera in a variety of situations, although the wide-angle lens meant I didn’t attempt any sports or wildlife photography (unless you count snapping some insects in my garden). I took the camera with me on various walks and trips, allowing me to test it in a range of lighting conditions and situations.

While the X-E5 supports both photo and video capture, I felt that I should concentrate mainly on the former, as the camera (particularly with this lens) feels geared more towards stills photography than amateur moviemaking. That being said, I did test the various video modes during my time with the X-E5.

First reviewed July 2025

If a recent uptick in cybersecurity threats inspired you to tighten your defenses, power to you. Granted, an intention is only half the battle. The trickiest part of the process is settling on which type of software to invest in, especially when you consider the sheer number of options out there.

While the best antivirus software and internet security suites are both viable (and popular) options, each offers a different level of protection. Since this is often an annual commitment, we can’t blame you if you’re worried about making the wrong choice, thus leaving yourself ill-prepared for a cyberthreat.

To put your mind at ease and decide which option will fulfill your needs better, here is a detailed breakdown of antivirus and internet security, their features, and the type of threats they’re effective against.

What is antivirus?

An antivirus is software that detects and eliminates malware. Depending on the underlying engine, an antivirus leverages various techniques to recognize harmful programs.

Traditionally, AV products primarily relied on signature-based detection, where they checked if the signature of the file matched the signature of malware in their database. Still, due to the growing sophistication of cyber threats, modern antivirus engines may also employ heuristic-based detection (among other techniques), which is a fancy way to say they analyze programs to see if they exhibit characteristics commonly linked to malware.

Since an antivirus scans files on your device, you can look at it as a sort of local protection, at least for the purpose of clarity. In the past, these programs were limited to local files (i.e., files already on your device), but today’s versions aren’t “offline-only” anymore and employ additional security layers to better shield you from incoming online threats.

What types of threats is antivirus effective against?

Although the name may lead you to believe that antivirus software can only remove viruses, it’s actually great when put to work against most types of malware (a broad term for malicious programs).

Malware can come in many forms. For instance, viruses are infamous because they can self-replicate by attaching to other files and programs, thereby infecting a device or a network. On the other hand, worms don’t require any other programs to replicate.

Then, there are the aptly named Trojan horses that pose as legitimate software and can perform their real functions once you execute or install them.

Depending on the type, the damage malware can cause ranges from stealing system resources for crypto mining or sending spam emails, to stealing your sensitive data, spying on you, or simply damaging your system.

Either way, an antivirus will stand its ground against most malware, meaning it should be an integral part of your digital security stack.

What is internet security?

In contrast to an antivirus, internet security suites include a wide array of tools aimed at protecting you online by preventing malicious files from finding their way onto your device.

Besides including an antivirus to protect you locally, internet security software also provides continuous monitoring that proactively busts threats while you’re browsing the web. Thus, it may also come packed with essential utilities such as VPN, password managers, parental control features, a comprehensive firewall, and so on.

What types of threats is internet security effective against?

For almost any threat you encounter online, there’s a high possibility that a robust internet security program will be able to shield you against it.

Take shady websites, for example. Threat actors can hack sites and use them to infect users with malware to grab hold of their information. Internet security software has up-to-date databases of malicious websites, so when you try to access one of them, you’ll receive a nifty warning that will help you stay out of harm’s way.

Furthermore, due to defenses like a firewall and VPN, internet security suites also address vulnerabilities hackers can exploit to steal your private details by hijacking your session and intercepting your data.

Another huge advantage of internet security programs is that they protect against phishing. Even if you don’t partake in torrenting or streaming movies on shady sites, you may still end up with malware if you fall for a phishing scam (which are sadly also getting more sophisticated).

The most common avenue for phishing is email. Scammers may mimic a legitimate service or an organization and con you into opening a malicious link or downloading a malware-ridden attachment. As these emails are indistinguishable from the real thing, thanks to cybercriminals using ChatGPT and similar AI language models to perfectly imitate company language, there’s always a chance you may fall for the scam.

Fret not. Internet security software can protect your inbox and stop these messages from ever reaching you.

Additionally, this suite may have features like a password manager. This will significantly up your security as it will help generate complex passwords, which you won’t have to remember because password managers have auto-fill capabilities.

Beyond the marketing

Before proceeding, here’s a quick summary of the differences between antivirus and internet security

• Antivirus protects against malware by scanning local files, whereas internet security monitors your online activities and protects you from downloading malware.
• Antivirus provides more basic features, while internet security programs are a combination of various security tools that include antivirus functions.
• Internet security stops hackers from exploiting network vulnerabilities.
• Antivirus and internet security are largely interchangeable when talking about the latest iterations of AV programs, which use cloud-based threat intelligence (previously limited to internet security) to identify and eliminate newer threats.

Vendors are now bundling antivirus and internet security together, so the distinction is pretty much about pricing tiers in the same line of products. Norton Antivirus and Norton 360 are good examples of this tiered approach. The former includes antivirus and basic security options, while the latter expands the offering to include extras like dark web monitoring, cloud backup, parental controls, and so on.

In a sense, it’s more about marketing than anything else, meaning that if you opt for an antivirus, you’ll also receive online protection, as well as the classic local file scans.

Which suite should you choose?

There are plenty of antivirus suites with powerful internet security capabilities to select from.

Let’s start with Avast, which has a capable free tier. In addition to a regular antivirus that detects threats in real time, it also scans for Wi-Fi security features, protects from ransomware, and spots fake sites. Opting for premium tiers unlocks more security tools, like a firewall, VPN, and sandboxing.

Same goes for Bitdefender, which has an excellent antivirus engine, while also blocking phishing emails and zero-day threats even in its free tier. Premium options are much more comprehensive, offering security bells and whistles that include a VPN, password manager, and data breach protection.

Norton Antivirus and its “heavier” version, Norton 360, are both great solutions. Along with AI detection, depending on the plan, you can also receive powerful identity protection services and parental controls, just to name a few.

These are just three examples. Whichever antivirus you go with, you’ll typically also receive internet protection in the basic subscriptions. Naturally, this doesn’t make your choice any easier, as most of these suites have overlapping functionalities, and are, as a rule, pretty good against various incarnations of malware.

Malware tests conducted by AV-Comparatives are a testament to this fact, as the majority of vendors on our list of best antivirus software boast offline and online detection rates that go as high as 99.6% in some cases. Thus, you’ll probably need to decide what features you want to have at your disposal and how much money you’re willing to pay for them. If you don’t care about the more sophisticated capabilities, then the free versions of these antivirus solutions may suffice, depending on your browsing habits.

You can read more about how to choose the best antivirus for you here.

Is a security suite enough?

In conclusion, internet security and an antivirus are indispensable tools for those who want to ensure that they’re doing everything in their power to safeguard their data and devices from cyber threats. As luck would have it, you no longer need separate programs as these two are often bundled together, so you can pretty much view them interchangeably.

A word of warning, though. Never let software lull you into a false sense of security. Despite how sophisticated these suites are, they’re not 100% foolproof. So, arm yourself with information on how to stay safe online and keep your eyes open at all times.

• GitHub is being weaponized as malware infrastructure, report warns
• Emmenhtal and Amadey are part of a coordinated, multi-layered attack chain
• Victims are mostly Ukrainian organizations, but all GitHub users should be on their guard

Security researchers have uncovered a sophisticated malware-as-a-service (MaaS) operation which exploits public GitHub repositories to compromise its targets.

In a blog post, Cisco Talos said the threat actors evolved their delivery tactics, moving away from traditional phishing methods and into GitHub, which is often whitelisted in enterprise environments.

GitHub is an extremely popular platform in the open source world, and as such is under a constant barrage of attacks. This batch of malicious repositories was removed, just like countless before it.

How to defend against GitHub-borne attacks

The campaign sought to deliver two malware families - Emmenthal and Amadey - mostly to organizations in Ukraine.

Emmenthal is a malware loader that usually drops SmokeLoader, another loader. While a loader loading a loader doesn’t sound logical at first, there is a strategic rationale behind it.

Emmenhtal is designed as a stealthy, multistage downloader that excels at initial infection and evasion. Once a foothold is secured, it hands off the next phase of the attack to SmokeLoader, which is a feature-rich modular loader specializing in post-infection operations.

Amadey, on the other hand, is a botnet that was first spotted around 2018, mostly sold on Russian-speaking cybercrime forums. It acts as a modular downloader and system profiler, capable of delivering a wide range of malware including information stealers and ransomware.

In this campaign, Amadey was hosted on GitHub and disguised in various ways, such as an MP4 file, or embedded in Python scripts like `checkbalance.py’.

To defend against this, and other threats like it, businesses should enforce strict filtering for script-based attachments, keep a close eye on PowerShell execution, and review GitHub policies, wherever possible.

They should also go for defense-in-depth and behavioral monitoring, as these can help spot shady download patterns, or payloads being executed on targeted machines.

You might also like

• Hackers are hiding powerful info-stealing malware in fake free VPNs downloaded from GitHub, don’t get tricked
• Take a look at our guide to the best authenticator app
• We've rounded up the best password managers

By the early 2000s, free antivirus software started offering decent protection for casual users, leading countless people to wonder if paying for an AV was really necessary.

The dilemma got even more pronounced when Microsoft Defender (then Windows Defender) evolved into a full antivirus in the 2010s. Why would someone pay for such an app when Windows already has one built in?

I’m afraid the answer isn’t that straightforward. The issue has evolved over the years, focusing more on added features rather than core protection, no matter how solid it may be at no expense. Plus, freebie antivirus software comes with a fine print of sorts, which is just one point in favor of the best antivirus software.

Free but with strings attached

There is no shortage of free antivirus software available for both mobile and desktop devices, so you have quite a selection to choose from. However, that in itself is a danger, since the more obscure efforts could pose a serious risk to your privacy and/or security.

For starters, certain vendors engage in what can best be described as problematic practices, such as partnering with other companies, sometimes even adware distributors or low-reputation download portals. This leads to bundled installations of unwanted software like browser toolbars, virtual private networks (VPNs), or third-party apps from sketchy sources.

In some instances, free AVs may use scare tactics, like showing deceptive security warnings by falsely flagging perfectly fine software to push a paid solution. A more benign version is exaggerated threat reports to get you to upgrade, or pushing ever-persistent notifications or ads to switch to “full protection”. These actions aren’t necessarily malicious but are disruptive and not quite trustworthy.

Then, there’s the matter of data collection and user privacy - or lack thereof, to be more precise. It’s common for free antivirus providers to make money off their apps by collecting and selling user data, including browsing history, app usage, device data, and so on. While this is usually anonymized and disclosed in the privacy policy, most users don’t realize what they’re agreeing to.

It’s important to note that not all free antivirus vendors behave this way. Still, the fact remains that the lower barrier to entry and the need to somehow monetize a free product are often the grounds for questionable behavior.

So, the key is to separate the wheat from the chaff and pick a reputable provider. That shouldn’t be a problem as the likes of Avast, AVG, Bitdefender, and others offer a no-cost alternative to their premium offerings.

Once you settle on a freebie, you’ll quickly learn that what you’re dealing with is basic. Yes, you will get a good enough protection for your device or two at no financial cost, but the operative word here is basic because paid apps go far above the essentials.

Typically, you’ll get core malware detection, while advanced features such as integrated firewalls, ransomware protection, and generally more comprehensive web security will require opening up your wallet.

Of course, how much you’ll have to fork over depends on the product range you’re looking at, but there is no denying that a fair share of valuable extras comes packed with premium antivirus apps.

Beyond the basics

The thing is, paid antivirus solutions have evolved considerably beyond simple virus detection. These days, they are comprehensive security suites designed to grapple with the multifaceted and evolving threat landscape. As such, they offer a layered defense that extends well beyond what their free counterparts are capable of.

A key distinction lies in their comprehensive feature set. While free antivirus often lacks a firewall, paid versions integrate advanced firewalls and network protection as part of their endpoint protection efforts. These act as digital gatekeepers, monitoring and filtering incoming and outgoing network traffic to block external intrusions, thereby complementing the antivirus' primary role of scanning for internal threats.

(Image credit: Norton)

Many top-tier security suites also bundle VPNs into their offerings to provide a layer of encrypted privacy and security by masking a user's IP address and web activity. If you’ve ever connected to a public Wi-Fi network that may or may not be secured, you know how crucial a VPN can be.

As part of the package, you’ll routinely find secure browsers engineered for sensitive activities like online banking (e.g., Bitdefender’s excellent Safepay). These operate within an isolated, sandboxed environment, preventing malicious websites or links from infecting the user's device. Each browsing session within this virtual environment is usually deleted upon completion, eliminating any malware encountered during that session.

Furthermore, the inclusion of password managers helps generate, securely store, and manage complex and (preferably) unique passwords that are much needed today. These tools significantly lessen the risk of credential theft, a common initial access point for attackers. For families, some manner of parental controls is often a standard feature, allowing parents to manage children's online content, block inappropriate websites, and implement screen time limits.

Increasingly, premium antivirus vendors have extended protection to identity theft protection, offering dark web and credit monitoring, and identity theft insurance to scan for compromised credentials and provide restoration services.

The bundling of these diverse services reflects the interconnected nature of modern threats and the necessity for a more encompassing security posture, thus safeguarding the majority of attack vectors. This integrated approach offers a holistic defense while simplifying security management at the same time.

Advanced threat protection

When it comes to basic virus and malware detection, free versions can be just as effective as paid ones, since they largely utilize the same core scanning engine. That said, arguably the most significant check in the paid antivirus’s pro column lies in its cutting-edge threat defense capabilities.

Through behavioral analysis and AI-driven detection engines that employ machine learning models, these solutions can detect previously unknown malicious patterns at the earliest stages of execution. This is a critical capability for combating zero-day exploits and fileless malware that traditional signature-based detection often misses.

By analyzing real-time process activity, these systems can identify the malicious nature of a program and even roll back changes made by an attack, even if the malicious code is obfuscated. It’s a fundamental shift from reactive detection of known threats to proactive identification of irregular behavior and immediate remediation, where a paid antivirus represents a more intelligent and adaptive defense system capable of countering novel and complex attacks.

Advanced solutions also offer specialized ransomware rollback and recovery mechanisms. Many integrate with extended detection and response (XDR) platforms, which restore encrypted files to a pre-attack state by continuously monitoring and recording file changes. In the worst-case scenario, having this functionality at your disposal is vital for rapid recovery, minimizing downtime, and avoiding the payment of ransoms.

For advanced phishing and deepfake defense, paid antivirus solutions incorporate sophisticated safeguards to shield users from deceptive links and emails. Some leverage AI models and powerful neural processing units (NPUs) within the hardware to analyze streaming audio and video locally, detecting manipulated content in seconds and alerting users. Others use digital signatures, blockchain technology, or maintain catalogs of known deepfakes to verify content authenticity.

The broader implication is that future cybersecurity will increasingly rely on a tighter integration between software and dedicated hardware components for optimal performance and real-time threat mitigation.

Superior support

Perhaps not an obvious factor, but paid antivirus offers better user support and, by proxy, experience (or at the very least, an ad-free one). If something goes sideways, you can actually pick up the phone or jump on a live chat to get help from real people. With free options, you're usually on your own, maybe with just a few FAQs or a web knowledge base to guide you.

Finally, let's talk cost. Paid antivirus isn't always as expensive as you might think, more so if you opt for a longer-term subscription, as the monthly breakdown can be surprisingly low. For a high level of protection, it often works out to just a few dollars a month, which is a pretty small investment for significant peace of mind.

Is paid antivirus really worth it?

The appeal of "free" software is undeniable, but those quotation marks are there for a reason. The illusion of no-cost alternatives often masks the true cost of negligence, which can expose you to often unseen risks and, ultimately, far greater financial expenses.

That’s not to say that a good free AV can’t get the job done. If you're truly just looking for the bare essentials, there are enough reputable (there goes that word again) vendors that will meet your needs.

But if you look at the big picture, paying for antivirus makes a lot of sense. It will keep you much safer online, where advanced and extra features can be a huge win for specific, yet everyday scenarios. Plus, getting that kind of protection doesn't have to break the bank, since some of the best paid options out there start at less than a few bucks a month.

• Read more: How to choose the best antivirus for you

Not sure what time the doors open for the theatre show you’re seeing tonight? Are you going to “Google It”? My teenage son and most of his Gen Z cohort certainly wouldn’t. They’ve been “searching it up” for years as they’ve grown up in a world where the definition of search is rapidly expanding. Social platforms like TikTok and Instagram as well as AI tools are starting to crowd Google out of more and more searches, shifting where and how people find information.

Google has long been the dominant consumer destination for discovering products and services. That started changing over the past decade as social media platforms, anchored around image and video content, created more engaging and brand-friendly experiences for users. While the news media wondered aloud if social media, TikTok in particular, might finally rival Google’s dominance, no one was ready for the apparent sea change in search ushered in by Open AI’s launch of ChatGPT.

Consumers were immediately drawn to the conversational user experience. Questions were seamlessly and naturally answered. The search experience felt personal as content generated responses were able to layer in guidance and recommendations. Fully formed answers and insights were served directly to consumers, without even needing to click on a link.

Large language models (LLMs), the core technology powering these AI search experiences, are completely overhauling how consumers access information. Brands now have a unique opportunity to effectively increase discoverability and engage with customers in this new age of search — depending on the strength, accuracy, and adaptability of their digital presence.

The Rise of LLMs

Younger generations and tech-savvy users are increasingly gravitating towards LLMs, drawn by their ability to deliver personalized, engaging, and highly interactive responses. Unlike traditional search engines that provide static lists of links, LLMs excel at understanding context, answering complex queries, and even offering creative solutions. Ignite Visibility data showed that almost two thirds (62%) of people now use ChatGPT or Google Gemini to find a product or service.

At the heart of this transformation are advancements in AI and machine learning, which have enabled these new search experiences to index vast amounts of data and leverage semantic understanding of language to dynamically generate responses to questions and prompts from users. For digital natives, LLMs align seamlessly with their preference for intuitive and adaptive technologies, shaping a future where conversational AI becomes the default interface for finding, learning, and deciding.

As LLMs continue to evolve, their impact is poised to redefine the digital experience, influencing everything from consumer habits to how businesses connect with their audiences.

Navigating the Shifting Search Landscape

Brand website traffic continued to decline over the past year, a trend that cannot be solely attributed to the rise of LLMs. Objective queries often pull answers from platforms like Wikipedia or Reddit instead of individual brand websites, resulting in reduced traffic.

However, both Google and tools like ChatGPT are improving their source citation practices for brand-specific questions, which could encourage a renewed interest in direct brand engagement. This shift in search behavior may require brands to rethink how they structure and present their information online.

Although the “zero-click phenomenon” raised concerns among marketers, LLMs should be seen as a transformative force rather than a restrictive one. By directly addressing informational queries, LLMs streamline the pre-conversion research process, enabling users to make faster, more informed decisions.

This shift may result in fewer overall impressions for brands but higher click-through rates for intent-driven queries, emphasizing quality over quantity in user engagement.

Unlike traditional search engines that prioritize their own proprietary algorithm to score brand relevance and prominence, tools like ChatGPT collect insights from a broader range of publishers. This democratization of information presents both challenges and opportunities for marketers: to thrive in this new landscape.

Brands must expand their reach beyond singular platforms and ensure their digital presence is ubiquitous and consistent across diverse channels. It also encourages greater transparency and accuracy in how brands represent themselves.

Brands: ensure your information is accurate, well-structured, and optimized for various digital platforms, from search engines to social media and conversational AI tools. Consistency, authority, and trustworthiness are key to navigating this transformation. Whenever customers encounter your brand, they should be able to find reliable, up-to-date information, regardless of the platform or device.

Preparing for the Future

How can brands future-proof their strategies by investing in systems that prioritize data integrity and adaptability? The answer lies in knowledge graphs. These powerful tools are essential for helping brands organize and structure the data needed to remain relevant and visible as consumer search behaviors continue to evolve.

By creating and actively managing a graph of structured data, companies have the foundational asset to broadly syndicate brand data across every channel necessary to provide valuable insights that resonate with modern users.

Establishing a knowledge graph and widely syndicating brand data acts to ground content generated by LLMs. This not only prevents AI hallucinations but also ensures your brand’s information is accurate, up-to-date and consistently engaging. Businesses that shift their focus from traditional search optimization to conversational search models today will be the ones leading the way tomorrow.

Leveraging knowledge graphs and embracing AI search platforms and LLMs l positions brands as forward-thinking and competitive, giving them an edge in the rapidly changing digital landscape.

We list the best SEO keyword research tool.

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

When it comes to professional video editing, the first software that likely comes to mind would be Adobe Premiere Pro; some might come up with Avid Media Composer; Mac users would probably point to Final Cut Pro.

But did you know there’s another option that offers professional grade tools at an unbeatable price? That option is Blackmagic Design’s DaVinci Resolve.

It's not just one of the best free video editing software tools out there - it's some of the best video editing software we've ever tested, period. There are no compromises here. Packed with pro-grade features for creative professionals, for what you get here (absolutely loads), it's impressive that it doesn't cost a cent.

DaVinci Resolve: Pricing & plans

• You can’t beat free, especially for a professional-grade product, but if you want even more power, then grab the ‘Studio’ version for just under $300

Why does it have an unbeatable price? Put simply, because it's free. That’s right: you don’t pay anything to get your hands on a powerful video editor, which also comes with media management, impressive colour grading, compositing and sound editing tools, and not an ad or watermark in sight.

How can such a tool be free? Likely because it's heavily subsided by Blackmagic Design’s extensive hardware portfolio. But surely it must have some limitations, right? Well yes, there are, but frankly they may not be seen as a hindrance to most editors: the biggest limitation is restricting exports to 4K and 60fps.

If that clashes with your workflow, then you should consider DaVinci Resolve Studio, which raises the ceiling to 32K and 120fps, and includes a host of other advances features, including HDR10+ formats, digital cinema packages for theatrical distribution, including a host of advanced AI tools which have been released with version 20. Studio will cost you just under $300 - all future updates, large or small, are included in that one-off fee.

This review’s focus is on the free version, which you can download for your PC, Mac and Linux machine, which you can get by clicking here.

• Score: 4.5/5

DaVinci Resolve: Interface

(Image credit: Blackmagic Design // Future)

• A wealth of editing tools wrapped inside a very well organised interface, coupled with detailed online video tutorials. Perfect for pros and novices alike

DaVinci Resolve is a big app. As we’ve mentioned above, not only can you edit a video project with it, but you have access to other features that would often be offered as a separate dedicated program. In order to facilitate working with so many tools, Resolve is broken down into seven different categories, which are referred to as ‘Pages’.

These are organized in the order in which your project progresses: you import and sort out your clips in the ‘Media’ page, then use ‘Cut’ or ‘Edit’ to build your project; after that, ‘Fusion’ is where you assemble complex special effects, followed by ‘Color’ for colour correction, ‘Fairlight’ to work on your audio, and finally, ‘Deliver’ to export your work and share it with others.

It’s all very well designed and straightforward, with perhaps the exception of ‘Cut’ and ‘Edit’. Why would anyone need two separate pages to cut a movie? The answer is simple: one is to do quick work, while the other offers more tools and additional precision. ‘Cut’ can also be seen as an introduction to Resolve, for those with little to no previous experience with video editing.

You can easily switch from one to the other, using tools in ‘Edit’ that aren’t available in ‘Cut’, then moving back to ‘Cut’ to carry on in a simplified environment (you can still see the effects of the tools you used in ‘Edit’ even if you can’t access and alter these effects while in ‘Cut’).

If you’re an experienced editor, you’ll acclimatise to Resolve’s way of working in little time, but newcomers to this art might well feel overwhelmed by the sheer power at their disposal - this is not your basic run of the mill limited free app.

But don't panic and run for the hills, as this software can and does grow with your skills and confidence - being able to switch between the basic ‘Cut’ to the more advanced ‘Edit’ is testament to that. And to help you on your journey, Blackmagic Design offer a detailed series of tutorials, complete with project files, on their website, again, completely for free (click here).

• Score: 5/5

DaVinci Resolve: Features

(Image credit: Blackmagic Design // Future)

• So many new features designed to improve, enhance and add to your editing experience. Sadly (but unsurprisingly) the best ones are kept for paying customers

DaVinci Resolve was recently updated to version 20, and the number of new and improved features is huge - the list is far too long for us to discuss each in turn. Instead, you can check what’s new here. We’ll discuss here the ones that struck a chord with us the most.

Version 19 was released only a year ago, and the improvements are stark… although, as you’d expect, Blackmagic Design have unsurprisingly kept the best for their paid-for Studio version. Need another incentive to upgrade? How about getting Studio to automatically edit a Multicam project for you? Or get it to retime a score so it fits the exact length you’re after? Or how about feeding it a script and let AI edit a scene for you based on the clips you’ve imported, complete with multiple takes spread across multiple layers so you can choose between them?

But fret not: the free version of Resolve also comes with a host of new and very useful features, which will greatly improve your workflow. For instance, you can now (finally!) easily extract a multi-layered PSD file and work with its layers individually in the Edit page’s timeline (prior to 20, this was only possible in the Fusion page).

(Image credit: Blackmagic Design // Future)

You can record a voice over directly from the Cut and Edit pages, with controls located just above the timeline. You’ve even got numerous options, such as a countdown timer, being able to choose from all connected microphones (even your iPhone), where to save the recording and on which layer to display it, for instance.

The text tools have received some love too. Your text can (finally!) wrap inside a text box, and there’s a new ‘multi text’ clip within which multiple text boxes can be created, enabling you to create complex titles without cluttering your timeline.

If you’re working with multiple timelines within a single project, you’ll likely appreciate being able to open a second one in the source viewer. This is nothing new, but 20 allows you to also edit that timeline from there, enabling you to see two timelines at once, switch between them and edit either (to help you differentiate them, the playhead changes colour from red to blue depending on which timeline you’re in).

(Image credit: Blackmagic Design // Future)

And we’ve got just enough time to gush over the revamped keyframe tools. They’ve been greatly improved and are now available in multiple locations, depending on your preferred way of working.

You can see them top left, either as a list, or as curves (which makes it so much easier to tweak them - you can even hold down the shift key to restrict their movement, allowing for much greater precision). These keyframes are also available in the timeline itself, giving you a greater visual feel for how they affect the clips in question.

Let’s be honest: this is just scratching the surface. Blackmagic Design have worked hard to deliver a significant update to Resolve (and especially Resolve Studio), and despite the fact the best tools are reserved for paying customers, those on an extremely tight budget haven’t been abandoned.

Resolve is an incredibly powerful application, with complex tools, from video editing, to image compositing, colour correction and audio manipulation. If you’re serious about filmmaking but have to watch your budget, downloading DaVinci Resolve should be a no brainer.

• Score: 4/5

Should I try DaVinci Resolve?

(Image credit: Blackmagic Design // Future)

Try it if...

You need a professional grade video editing solution with advanced compositing tools, audio manipulation, extensive colour correction, and you’re on a seriously tight budget

Don't try it if...

You don’t like free software with no ads and no watermark. Seriously, the only reason you shouldn’t try it is if you’re not interested in video editing.

For more creative software, we've tested and reviewed the best video editing software for beginners and the best video editing apps for mobile devices.

After a busy few weeks in the world of streaming, it's been relatively quiet on the new movies and TV shows release front over the past few days.

The world's best streaming services have released some new content for you to enjoy, though, including the return of a big Amazon TV Original and three wildly different shows on Netflix. So, no matter what type of entertainment fare and/or genres you're into, there's something in this week's recommendations article that'll appeal to you. – Tom Power, senior entertainment reporter

The Summer I Turned Pretty season 3 (Prime Video)

Prime Video takes centre stage following the release of The Summer I Turned Pretty season 3, aka one of the best Prime Video shows' final season.

If you thought Belly had found her soulmate at the end of season 2, think again, because she's not quite done with the Fisher boys yet. However, while the show is based on showrunner Jenny Han's book series namesake, it's taken some creative liberties that make it diabolically different from the books.

Regardless of the adaptation's differences, the 'will they, won't they' trope is firmly keeping us glued to the screens to see what surprise twists might unfold during this next long vacation. After all, it's not summer until we get to Cousins Beach. – Amelia Schwanke, senior entertainment editor

• Watch The Summer I Turned Pretty season 3 on Prime Video

The Amateur (Hulu/Disney+)

A remake of Robert Littell's 1981 novel and its movie namesake that arrived that same year, 20th Century Studios' retelling of The Amateur has finally landed on Hulu (US) and Disney+ (internationally).

Mr. Robot and James Bond alumnus Rami Malek plays CIA cryptographer Charlie Heller, who takes matters into his own hands after his wife is killed by terrorists and his own agency refuses to help him find those responsible because it'll impact a wider investigation into the criminal network. Laurence Fishburne is among its starry cast,

The Amateur's 61% critical rating on Rotten Tomatoes suggests it shouldn't infiltrate our best Hulu movies and best Disney+ movies lists, but its 88% audience score indicates it might. Keep your eyes and ears out, then, to see if it'll stealth its way onto one or both guides. – TP

• Watch The Amateur on Hulu (US) and Disney+ (internationally)

Untamed (Netflix)

Ready to marvel at giant granite cliffs and redwoods from the comfort of your home? Netflix's new murder mystery drama Untamed will take you to the wilds of Yosemite National Park.

The six-episode series sees Eric Bana (Dirty John; Troy) play a ranger/special agent of the National Parks Service who gets swept up in an investigation over a brutal death that ends up leading him down a much darker path that isn't just vistas and pretty scenery.

Creators Mark Smith (The Revenant, American Primeval) and Elle Smith (The Marsh King’s Daughter) are no strangers to gritty dramas, so we can expect this potential addition to our best Netflix shows list to be as gripping as it is beautiful. – AS

• Watch Untamed on Netflix

Star Trek: Strange New Worlds season 3 (Paramount+)

It's time to hop back on board the USS Enterprise as Star Trek: Strange New Worlds season 3 has launched. One of the best Paramount+ shows was renewed for a fourth season in April, too, so fans can rest assured there's more to come.

This installment in the sci-fi franchise has been met with critical acclaim and has a fresh 85% Rotten Tomatoes score, so this Paramount+ TV Original is a must-watch for Trekkies across the globe.

Anson Mount's Captain Christopher Pike is back to lead weekly adventures throughout the cosmos alongside Ethan Peck's Spock, Jess Bush's Christine Chapel, and the rest of the crew who are on hand to help out. It's both new and comfortingly familiar with outfits, characters, and references that long-term Star Trek fans will adore. – Lucy Buglass, senior entertainment writer

• Watch Star Trek: Strange New Worlds season 3 on Paramount+

Billy Joel: And So It Goes (HBO Max)

HBO Max is sitting down with the Piano Man this weekend, with a two-part documentary exploring the life and career of musician Billy Joel.

Early reviews are very positive indeed and, while there might not be much here for non-fans, it'll be a real treat for those keen to learn more about the singer-songwriter.

Indeed, fans can tune in to an "expansive portrait of the life and music of Billy Joel, exploring the love, loss, and personal struggles that fuel his songwriting". You can expect to see exclusive performances, home movies, and one-on-one interviews in this week's and next week's installments. – LB

• Watch Billy Joel: And So It Goes on HBO Max

Trainwreck: Balloon Boy (Netflix)

From Poop Cruise to The Cult of American Apparel, Netflix's Trainwreck docuseries has been beyond unhinged. Even so, Balloon Boy might just have them all beat as it tells the story of 6-year-old Falcon, who was allegedly stuck inside a gas balloon resembling a UFO built by his parents.

Don't panic: the story doesn't have a tragic ending, but rather a completely bizarre one. Falcon's balloon plight turned out to be an elaborate hoax, supposedly the brainchild of parents Richard and Mayumi Heene. The reveal that Balloon Boy is actually a publicity stunt won't spoil your watch – the horror is in the detail of how it came to be. Plus, we're finally getting the full account from the Heenes themselves, which seems to be brilliant news to Falcon. – Jasmine Valentine, entertainment writer

• Watch Trainwreck: Balloon Boy on Netflix

Sakamoto Days season 1 part 2 (Netflix)

You thought Taro Sakamoto was done after merely 10 episodes? Taro Sakamoto is never done, even when he says he is.

The hit Netflix anime, which follows a former hitman who ditched his high-profile life to raise a family, and now has his former colleagues are after revenge, took off with its first half earlier this year. It's as endearing as it is exciting, revolving around the idea that family isn't something you're born into, but something you choose.

Sakamoto Days perfectly toes the line of drama and comedy, punching out something heartfelt, high-octane, and genuinely laugh-out-loud with each landed blow. In part 2, we're expecting to see a set of death row inmates freed in order to try and kill Sakamoto, if the manga is anything to go by. – JV

• Watch Sakamoto Days season 1 part 2 on Netflix

For more streaming suggestions, read our guides on the best Netflix movies, best Disney+ shows, best Prime Video movies, and best HBO Max shows.

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 Friday's puzzle instead then click here: NYT Strands hints and answers for Friday, July 18 (game #502).

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

• Today's NYT Strands theme is… Hot enough for ya?

NYT Strands today (game #503) - hint #2 - clue words

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

• SMUG
• COMMA
• SINGER
• CORE
• RELATE
• TRAIN

NYT Strands today (game #503) - hint #3 - spangram lettersHow many letters are in today's spangram?

• Spangram has 13 letters

NYT Strands today (game #503) - hint #4 - spangram positionWhat are two sides of the board that today's spangram touches?

First side: top, 6th column

Last side: bottom, 1st column

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

NYT Strands today (game #503) - the answers

(Image credit: New York Times)

The answers to today's Strands, game #503, are…

• STICKY
• BALMY
• MUGGY
• SCORCHING
• SWELTERING
• SPANGRAM: SUMMER WEATHER

• My rating: Hard
• My score: 1 hint

The first word I got was STICKY, so I did momentarily think that today’s search was something to do with cooking spicy food. 

After hitting a wall and seeing dozens of non-game words – but zero game words – I took a hint and BALMY set me on my way. 

It’s odd how if we live in a cooler climate we spend ages wishing for warmer weather, but then when it arrives – as today’s word search demonstrates – we realize it’s insufferable.

Yesterday's NYT Strands answers (Friday, July 18, game #502)

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

What is NYT Strands?

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

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

Looking for a different day?

A new NYT Connections puzzle appears at midnight each day for your time zone – which means that some people are always playing 'today's game' while others are playing 'yesterday's'. If you're looking for Friday's puzzle instead then click here: NYT Connections hints and answers for Friday, July 18 (game #768).

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 #769) - today's words

(Image credit: New York Times)

Today's NYT Connections words are…

• TACK
• TAP
• RAP
• SNAP
• LEO
• BRAD
• SPIKE
• DON
• NAIL
• WELL
• MIC
• PASS
• SPRING
• RAIN
• PUNT
• PIN

NYT Connections today (game #769) - hint #1 - group hints

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

• YELLOW: Where the stuff of life comes from
• GREEN: Pigskin possibilities
• BLUE: Hold things together
• PURPLE: How an animated animal collective begin

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 #769) - hint #2 - group answers

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

• YELLOW: SOURCES OF DRINKING WATER
• GREEN: THINGS YOU CAN DO WITH A FOOTBALL
• BLUE: SHARP FASTENERS
• PURPLE: STARTS OF TEENAGE MUTANT NINJA TURTLES

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

NYT Connections today (game #769) - the answers

(Image credit: New York Times)

The answers to today's Connections, game #769, are…

• YELLOW: SOURCES OF DRINKING WATER RAIN, SPRING, TAP, WELL
• GREEN: THINGS YOU CAN DO WITH A FOOTBALL PASS, PUNT, SNAP, SPIKE
• BLUE: SHARP FASTENERS BRAD, NAIL, PIN, TACK
• PURPLE: STARTS OF TEENAGE MUTANT NINJA TURTLES DON, LEO, MIC, RAP

• My rating: Hard
• My score: Fail

I was at a distinct disadvantage today, knowing nothing about football (of the American kind) or Mutant Ninja Turtles, but that wasn’t the reason why I crashed out.

Like many, I am sure, seeing BRAD and LEO beside each other on the board immediately made me think of Brad Pitt and Leonardo DiCaprio so I spent ages trying to find a group that was something to do with Once Upon A Time in Hollywood – wasting a mistake on a wild guess.

My next three mistakes came before I’d even got a single group correct. Thinking that I was looking for a group of things you could hammer, I selected NAIL, PIN, TACK and SPIKE.

After getting one away I tried SNAP instead of spike and then, possessed by another ‘one away’, SPRING. Ah well, you can’t win them all. Or hammer them all.

Yesterday's NYT Connections answers (Friday, July 18 game #768)

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

What is NYT Connections?

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

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

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

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

Looking for a different day?

A new Quordle puzzle appears at midnight each day for your time zone – which means that some people are always playing 'today's game' while others are playing 'yesterday's'. If you're looking for Friday's puzzle instead then click here: Quordle hints and answers for Friday, July 18 (game #1271).

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 #1272) - hint #1 - VowelsHow many different vowels are in Quordle today?

• The number of different vowels in Quordle today is 3*.

* 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 #1272) - hint #2 - repeated lettersDo any of today's Quordle answers contain repeated letters?

• The number of Quordle answers containing a repeated letter today is 3.

Quordle today (game #1272) - hint #3 - uncommon lettersDo the letters Q, Z, X or J appear in Quordle today?

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

Quordle today (game #1272) - 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 0.

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 #1272) - hint #5 - starting letters (2)What letters do today's Quordle answers start with?

• E

• C

• T

• S

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

Quordle today (game #1272) - the answers

(Image credit: Merriam-Webster)

The answers to today's Quordle, game #1272, are…

• EARLY
• CLICK
• TRITE
• SPREE

I changed one of my start words today – “would” instead of “could” – and came close to ending my winning streak.

I’m not sure whether the two are connected, but when it came down to my final guess I used the letter C and it resulted in a last-ditch correct guess. 

That’ll teach me to experiment!

Daily Sequence today (game #1272) - the answers

(Image credit: Merriam-Webster)

The answers to today's Quordle Daily Sequence, game #1272, are…

• SENSE
• STAND
• BIRTH
• COAST

Quordle answers: The past 20

• Quordle #1271, Friday, 18 July: CINCH, FOYER, FUDGE, TAFFY
• Quordle #1270, Thursday, 17 July: CRESS, TABOO, POWER, HATER
• Quordle #1269, Wednesday, 16 July: UNCLE, NADIR, REMIT, BROOM
• Quordle #1268, Tuesday, 15 July: VILLA, FLECK, TIGER, CRANE
• Quordle #1267, Monday, 14 July: SURGE, PIZZA, PAPER, POPPY
• Quordle #1266, Sunday, 13 July: KAYAK, DECRY, RUDDY, HATER
• Quordle #1265, Saturday, 12 July: WREAK, NANNY, CLASP, STAIN
• Quordle #1264, Friday, 11 July: LAPEL, DRAIN, FROND, GROSS
• Quordle #1263, Thursday, 10 July: CROSS, WHEEL, UNDID, PENCE
• Quordle #1262, Wednesday, 9 July: SHIRE, SIXTH, SINGE, IMAGE
• Quordle #1261, Tuesday, 8 July: PLIED, PRANK, GAWKY, OXIDE
• Quordle #1260, Monday, 7 July: DROLL, TRUCE, TWIRL, SINCE
• Quordle #1259, Sunday, 6 July: AMPLY, SPAWN, EXTOL, RIDGE
• Quordle #1258, Saturday, 5 July: HAVEN, SNAKE, DREAM, TORUS
• Quordle #1257, Friday, 4 July: FAVOR, SKUNK, GAWKY, FLUFF
• Quordle #1256, Thursday, 3 July: DANCE, EYING, GLAZE, EGRET
• Quordle #1255, Wednesday, 2 July: INANE, SCOUR, ELITE, ULCER
• Quordle #1254, Tuesday, 1 July: REBAR, YEARN, FORTH, CROWD
• Quordle #1253, Monday, 30 June: INGOT, INFER, TAPIR, CLUED

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 Friday's puzzle instead then click here: Quordle hints and answers for Friday, July 18 (game #1271).

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 #1272) - hint #1 - VowelsHow many different vowels are in Quordle today?

• The number of different vowels in Quordle today is 3*.

* 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 #1272) - hint #2 - repeated lettersDo any of today's Quordle answers contain repeated letters?

• The number of Quordle answers containing a repeated letter today is 3.

Quordle today (game #1272) - hint #3 - uncommon lettersDo the letters Q, Z, X or J appear in Quordle today?

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

Quordle today (game #1272) - 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 0.

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 #1272) - hint #5 - starting letters (2)What letters do today's Quordle answers start with?

• E

• C

• T

• S

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

Quordle today (game #1272) - the answers

(Image credit: Merriam-Webster)

The answers to today's Quordle, game #1272, are…

• EARLY
• CLICK
• TRITE
• SPREE

I changed one of my start words today – “would” instead of “could” – and came close to ending my winning streak.

I’m not sure whether the two are connected, but when it came down to my final guess I used the letter C and it resulted in a last-ditch correct guess. 

That’ll teach me to experiment!

Daily Sequence today (game #1272) - the answers

(Image credit: Merriam-Webster)

The answers to today's Quordle Daily Sequence, game #1272, are…

• SENSE
• STAND
• BIRTH
• COAST

Quordle answers: The past 20

• Quordle #1271, Friday, 18 July: CINCH, FOYER, FUDGE, TAFFY
• Quordle #1270, Thursday, 17 July: CRESS, TABOO, POWER, HATER
• Quordle #1269, Wednesday, 16 July: UNCLE, NADIR, REMIT, BROOM
• Quordle #1268, Tuesday, 15 July: VILLA, FLECK, TIGER, CRANE
• Quordle #1267, Monday, 14 July: SURGE, PIZZA, PAPER, POPPY
• Quordle #1266, Sunday, 13 July: KAYAK, DECRY, RUDDY, HATER
• Quordle #1265, Saturday, 12 July: WREAK, NANNY, CLASP, STAIN
• Quordle #1264, Friday, 11 July: LAPEL, DRAIN, FROND, GROSS
• Quordle #1263, Thursday, 10 July: CROSS, WHEEL, UNDID, PENCE
• Quordle #1262, Wednesday, 9 July: SHIRE, SIXTH, SINGE, IMAGE
• Quordle #1261, Tuesday, 8 July: PLIED, PRANK, GAWKY, OXIDE
• Quordle #1260, Monday, 7 July: DROLL, TRUCE, TWIRL, SINCE
• Quordle #1259, Sunday, 6 July: AMPLY, SPAWN, EXTOL, RIDGE
• Quordle #1258, Saturday, 5 July: HAVEN, SNAKE, DREAM, TORUS
• Quordle #1257, Friday, 4 July: FAVOR, SKUNK, GAWKY, FLUFF
• Quordle #1256, Thursday, 3 July: DANCE, EYING, GLAZE, EGRET
• Quordle #1255, Wednesday, 2 July: INANE, SCOUR, ELITE, ULCER
• Quordle #1254, Tuesday, 1 July: REBAR, YEARN, FORTH, CROWD
• Quordle #1253, Monday, 30 June: INGOT, INFER, TAPIR, CLUED

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