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The Boys season 5: key information

- Announced in May 2024
- Will be the hit series' final installment
- Principal photography wrapped in July 2025
- No release date or trailer revealed yet
- Main cast members will return
- New cast additions announced in late 2024 and February 2025
- Story will pick up after The Boys season 4 and Gen V season 2
- Could set up Gen V season 3
- A prequel spin-off series is already in development

The countdown to The Boys season 5 is officially on. With filming wrapping on the hugely popular Prime Video show's final installment in early July, the clock is ticking on its yet-to-be-announced release on Amazon's streaming platform.

So, what do we know about The Boys' final season ahead of launch? Below, I've rounded up the latest and biggest news on one of the best Prime Video shows' final hurrah. Indeed, I speculate on when it might arrive, and provide more details on its confirmed cast, plot specifics, and where the franchise may go after the mainline series end.

Full spoilers follow for The Boys season 4. Potential season 5 spoilers are also on the way.

The Boys season 5 release date: what we know

A post shared by Eric Kripke (@erickripke1)

A photo posted by on

The Boys season 5 doesn't have a release date yet. However, after Amazon confirmed the popular Prime Video show was getting a fifth installment in May 2024, filming began a few months later. As showrunner Eric Kripke announced on Instagram (see above) recently, principal photography ended on July 2.

So, when will The Boys' fifth chapter be released on one of the world's best streaming services? Amazon hasn't announced an official date, but has confirmed a 2026 release window on X/Twitter.

My prediction? The Boys season 5 will make its bow in mid-2026, with a May or June release window the most likely scenario. That would be in keeping with many of its forebears' releases, with all but one of the series' seasons debuting in the summer (that's winter for southern hemisphere viewers) of their respective launch years.

The Boys season 5 trailer: is there one?

Contrary to popular belief, Season 4 is not a documentary. Still for yer consideration, though. pic.twitter.com/0uDqriIdlwJune 12, 2025

Nope. I'd be surprised if we get one before early 2026 at the, well, earliest, too. I'll update this section once one is release.

The Boys season 5 cast: confirmed and rumored

Hughie and Annie will be back as part of season 5's all-star cast (Image credit: Prime Video)

Major spoilers follow for The Boys season 4.

Based on how The Boys season 4 ended, plus cast additions that have been announced for the show's final entry, here's who I expect to see next time around:

• Karl Urban as William 'Billy' Butcher
• Jack Quaid as Hugh 'Hughie' Campbell
• Antony Starr as Homelander
• Erin Moriarty as Annie January/Starlight
• Laz Alonso as Marvin Milk/Mother's Milk
• Jessie T Usher as Reggie Franklin/A-Train
• Chace Crawford as Kevin Moskowitz/The Deep
• Tomer Capone as Serge/Frenchie
• Karen Fukuhara as Kimiko Miyashiro
• Nathan Mitchell as Black Noir 2.0
• Colby Minifie as Ashley Barrett
• Cameron Crovetti as Ryan Butcher
• Susan Heyward as Jessica Bradley/Sister Sage
• Valorie Curry as Misty Gray/Firecracker
• Jensen Ackles as Soldier Boy
• Mason Dye as Bombsight
• Jared Padalecki as TBC
• Misha Collins as TBC
• Daveed Diggs as TBC

Everyone except the final four names on that list have appeared throughout the series and/or season 4.

On the newcomers front, the headline news is that Prime Video has put a Supernatural spin on The Boys season 5 cast with the additions of Padalecki and Collins. They've reunited with Kripke, who was Supernatural's showrunner, and fellow Supernatural alumnus Jensen Ackles. It's unclear who Padalecki and Collins are playing, though.

Elsewhere, The Boys' social media channels confirmed Diggs (Snowpiercer, Hamilton) has signed on in an undisclosed role and announced Dye (Stranger Things, Finding Carter) is on board as a new Supe called Bombsight. Those announcements came in September and October 2024.

That list isn't an exhaustive one, either. Shantel VanShanten, who's portrayed Becca Butcher on and off throughout the show, could feature as the imaginary angel on Billy's shoulder if he ever stops listening to the devilish mirage that is Morgan's Kessler, who I'd also expect to return.

And what about teen Supes who appeared in Gen V season 1?. Much depends on what happens in Gen V season 2, but we could also see Marie, Jordan, and Emma make the jump to the main show. Cate and Sam, who appeared in The Boys 4, could reappear in its sequel, too. Andre won't show up, though, following the death of actor Chance Perdomo in March 2024.

Two other individuals who won't be back are Laila Robins' Grace Mallory and Claudia Doumit's Victoria Neuman. They were killed by Ryan and Billy respectively in season 4's final episode so, unless they cameo in flashback sequences or as hallucinatory figures, we've seen the last of these characters.

The Boys season 5 story speculation

Billy (pictured right) will still be gunning for Homelander in season 5 (Image credit: Prime Video)

Full spoilers follow for The Boys season 4 and Gen V season 1.

The Boys season 5 doesn't have an official plot synopsis yet. However, based on its predecessor's finale (read our article on The Boys season 4 ending explained for more details), we can speculate on what'll occur in its first few episodes.

Before we get into that, though, Kripke has revealed the title for season 5 episode 1, which you can view below.

One. Last. Ride. #DayOne #FinalSeason #TheBoys @TheBoysTV @PrimeVideo pic.twitter.com/3xRxzUoWfmNovember 25, 2024

The obvious place to start is the 'new world order' established by Homelander becoming the US' new de facto president. He's not technically the leader of the western world's biggest/most profitable nation, but he's essentially the grand orchestrator of things, with Senator Calhoun installed as a puppet president in season 4 episode 8, aka 'Assassination Run'.

What does this mean? Supes are now hardline law enforcers who report directly to Homelander and round up and/or kill anyone that he deems to be a threat. That includes the titular gang, with Hughie, Frenchie, and Mother's Milk being kidnapped at the end of 'Assassination Run'. Kimiko was captured alongside Frenchie and, given she's superhuman, I suspect she'll be forced to join Homelander's new special forces against her will.

As for Annie January/Starlight, she managed to escape; Hughie's superpowered girlfriend fleeing into the sky – with Hughie's blessing – to evade capture. I wouldn't be surprised if she covertly tries to locate some fellow superpowered people to help her rescue Hughie and company. Meanwhile, Billy has also evaded Homelander's clutches, with The Boys' double-crossing former leader heading to pastures unknown with the only vial of Supe-killing virus on the planet.

Catchin our breath from yesterday, let’s recap what we learned, shall we?- @genv Season 2 officially arrives 2025, with Hamish Linklater as the new God U dean and Chace Crawford guest starring.- We’ve cast an up-and-coming actor named Jensen Ackles for The Boys Season 5.… pic.twitter.com/eHTqi5c29dJuly 27, 2024

Kripke said that deflating ending was intentionally chosen to set up a fifth season where the titular gang were at their lowest ebb. "I think the finale of season four really shows you that we've been planning five years all along, because there's no way a show goes one more season after the events of that finale", he told LadBible. "As far as we're concerned, it's our show's version of the apocalypse.

"Homelander gets everything he has wanted from the beginning, which is to completely remake the United States in his image, and according to his whims. The boys are at their lowest point, most of them are captured, and we worry for their future.

"I always look at it as of the five seasons, we're kind of at that point, that's sort of the end of the second act of a movie where everyone's really at their low point, and they've all faced their own personal demons. Now, they need to really come together in the fifth season and save the world."

As for the aforementioned virus, it's unclear how Billy will use it. Does he want to save it for Homelander specifically or, based on the dark side of the persona (aka his hallucinations of former best bud Joe Kessler), will he try and work out how to mass produce it, and then employ his 'scorched earth' policy to kill every Supe? The latter would surely mean he meets fierce resistance from The Boys, who count the superpowered Annie and Kimiko among their posse. The good side of his persona (ie his visions of Becca Butcher) may try to prevent him from using it on a national and/or global scale, too, as doing so would kill Ryan, aka Becca's son who Billy is sworn to protect.

Season 5 will explore the father-son dynamic between Soldier Boy and Homelander, according to Kripke (Image credit: Prime Video)

Let's not forget that, after injecting himself with Compound V in season 4, Billy has put himself in the firing line if he released the virus worldwide. That said, he's dying from a super form of cancer after he continually took the experimental Temp-V serum in The Boys season 3 (read our ending explainer on The Boys season 3 for more), so he'll just consider himself to be necessary cannon fodder if it means wiping out every Supe with the pathogen.

There are plenty of other questions that The Boys season 5 needs to address or, more importantly, answer before its final credits roll.

Where did Ryan go after he escaped the CIA's safehouse? Will we see A-Train and Queen Maeve again and, if so, will they side with The Boys to take down Homelander and/or Billy? What powers did Ashley acquire after taking Compound V? And, after he was saved from another prison stint by his recently deceased adoptive daughter Victoria Neuman, where on earth is former Vought CEO Stan Edgar?

That's before we even consider the potential impact Gen V season 2 will have. Indeed, its first trailer appears to set the stage for The Boys season 5 and, with some characters from the main show set to cameo, there'll be even more crossover between the series' stories than before.

As for how The Boys franchise's primary story will end, Kripke said (via Collider): "It’s so hard to land that plane, much less we’re landing eight different planes. I am appropriately respectful and have an appropriate amount of trepidation for how hard that job is. I’m not walking into it cocky at all. I’m walking into it like 'Okay, let’s second and triple guess every single decision because we really wanna land this plane'... I’ve got to make sure I stick that moment.”

What does the future hold for The Boys on Prime Video?

Introducing the next deranged entry into the world of The Boys: VOUGHT RISING, starring Jensen Ackles and Aya Cash. Set in the 1950s, exploring the early exploits of Soldier Boy and a supe you know as Stormfront. Only advice for now is keep your hands off the fucking shield. pic.twitter.com/Ss9lqnnbP3July 26, 2024

Gen V season 2 aside, there's only one other spin-off that's been announced: Vought Rising. Set in the 1950s, the murder mystery-inspired prequel series, which was one of nine big Comic-Con 2024 announcements we're most excited for, will explore the origins of the Supe-developing corporation Vought Inc. and the not-so-humble beginnings of Ackles' Soldier Boy. Stormfront, who was played by Aya Cash in The Boys season 2, will also feature heavily throughout. It could also feature the first-ever Herogasm, too.

Meanwhile, there were rumors that another The Boys spin-off show was in the works, which was said to involve Star Wars: Andor's lead Diego Luna. The second live-action spin-off is believed to be based in Mexico, but there's been no more news on whether it's still in development.

Speaking to Collider in November 2022, The Boys executive producer Seth Rogen also expressed his wish to make a second season of animated anthology spin-off The Boys Presents: Diabolical. Again, there's nothing new to report on whether it's moving forward.

Lastly, we don't know if Gen V will return for a third season yet. I'd be surprised if it didn't, but The Boys season 5's ending will likely dictate its future. If there are narrative beats left over from the main show, Gen V season 3 would be the ideal candidate to tie up any loose ends.

For more Prime Video-based coverage, read our guides on Fallout season 2, The Rings of Power season 2, and the best Prime Video movies to stream today.

On the first morning of a new month, you’ll often find me scrolling the lists of every platform to find which streaming movies and shows simply have to go on my watchlist.

Honestly, I love sitting down with my coffee and adding all of those must-see titles. Every month I hold out hope that somehow, The Vanishing from 1993, which isn't streaming anywhere – yep, not even VOD, and the physical media is OOP — will magically appear. It never does. But! I digress!

I'm here to help you consider which of the best streaming services might be worth keeping for this month, and which subscriptions to perhaps pause. This tactic is known among cord-cutters as subscription hopping. Not only is it a money saver, it's also fun to say, as it conjures images of bunnies. Just me? Okay, well, without more of my silliness, here's my dive into one streamer I'm keeping, and one I'm dropping for July 2025.

Here's why I'm keeping Peacock in July 2025

Danielle Deadwyler in The Woman in the Yard. (Image credit: Universal Pictures)

First off: The Woman in the Yard technically dropped at the tail-end of June, but it piqued my interest on account of hearing in almost every review how thoroughly bleak it is. The film hails from Jaume Collet-Serra, whose resume seldom includes titles that don't feature Liam Neeson. Alas, he fails to appear in this PG-13 horror about a widow whose life is plagued by a mysterious woman (you guessed it, she's in the yard) who tells her "today's the day". Not your typical Blumhouse fare, so worth a watch.

On July 11, we have the latest Christopher Landon. The filmmaker behind Freaky and Happy Death Day brings more of a thriller edge to Drop. The movie centres around Meghann Fahy, who is having A YEAR, as her date night is scuppered by a hooded killer who threatens to kill her kid unless she murders her date. Most of the comparisons on this reference Hitchcock, which is never a bad thing. That's how we ended up with Brian DePalma, after all.

Natasha Lyonne in Poker Face (Image credit: Peacock)

On the series front, there’s a great crop of new genre titles dropping episodes every week. We’ve got the season 2 finale of Poker Face arriving mid-month, which has been a who’s who of TV with its cameos, along with the SyFy series Revival. Wynonna Earp fans are already tuning into this latest show which features Melanie Scrofano as a police officer Dana Cypress who presides over an unusual Wisconsin town where the dead return to life. But see, they're not zombies, they're just back. Scrofano's cop has to investigate a murder with a victim who is now revived, making the case a real puzzler! Early word is positive on this Canadian show so add it to your watchlist.

My big must-watch for the month lands right before we head into August. The season two premiere of Twisted Metal arrives July 31. I was shocked at how much I utterly adored season one despite the not-enough-Neve-Campbell of it all.

Based on the PlayStation game of the same name and developed by Rhett Reese and Paul Wernick, the duo responsible for dragging Deadpool into the big-screen mainstream, Twisted Metal ain't your typical video game adaptation. It's really, really good. The show revolves around a post-apocalyptic landscape traversed by John Doe (Anthony Mackie), a milkman tasked with shepherding a package of unknown contents across the united states on behalf of a feared leader (Campbell) along with a new-found friend (Stephanie Beatriz).

Along the way he encounters all sorts of serial killers (Will Arnett is TERRIFYING), marauders, and generar ne'er do wells, and it's exhilarating. This felt like Stephen King's The Stand crossed with the best part of Zack Snyder's Dawn of the Dead. A trash-talkin' road trip extravaganza that's equal parts action and gore. This is a huge, huge recommend. Catch up on season one before the new one drops. Speaking of drops…

Why I'm dropping Netflix in July

Adam Sandler in Happy Gilmore 2. (Image credit: Netflix )

Yes, yes, I know. Netflix's July line-up for the US includes the entire Jaws and (most of) the Mission Impossible franchises along with season two of The Sandman. I wasn’t the hugest fan of season one, to be fair, so I wasn't holding out for it. But there's unfortunately no major new releases I'm excited about.

The only new films to hit are both Netflix Originals; The Old Guard 2, which isn’t getting the best reviews, and Happy Gilmore 2 which drops at the end of the month. If the latter, which finds Adam Sandler returning as the titular golfer, receives good word then that’ll be one to consider if I resubscribe to Netflix in August.

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The UK Government put forward a consultation to ban public sector organizations from paying ransomware demands. An enacted ban would prohibit central and local government organizations, as well as other bodies considered Critical National Infrastructure (CNI), from making payments to a threat actor in the event of a ransomware attack.

One pro-ban theory is that this kind of restriction would remove an attacker’s justification or desire to attack. Knowing they won’t get paid, an attack is a waste of time, right? But would this actually work? To the credit of pro-ban believers, there’s also no guarantee that payment to an attacker will result in the promised decryption or safe return of stolen information – attackers may just take the money and run.

Ideally, implementing a ban on payments minimizes the number and frequency of attacks by eliminating the reward of a payout. However, there are both ethical and moral dilemmas associated with not paying ransoms.

Where it concerns a CNI victim, there may be lives at risk. The easiest example is a hospital. Imagine your local hospital falls victim of a targeted ransomware attack and all of the internet-connected devices within the facility cannot properly function to sustain the lives of those inside. Or perhaps a water supply or electricity facility that provides service to the hospital is targeted.

These ransomware attacks would also impact the hospital and people’s lives. In the heat of the moment, those ransomware payments can be used to quickly calm the panic and return to normal, recovering bricked systems and getting critical services up and running.

The potential impact of a ban

To put it bluntly, banning ransomware payments will not solve the problem. A total ban will make it much harder for some public sector organizations when the situation arises – and unfortunately, it will arise. As we covered, healthcare providers, for example, would be hugely affected. In my opinion, the onus should be on the victim organization to decide on whether to make a ransomware payment, especially when lives are on the line. Only those that are directly affected have enough insight and context to weigh this kind of decision based on the risks and impacts of whether or not the payment is made.

If the UK does decide to implement a full ban on payments, there will be even more pressure on public sector organizations to ensure their business continuity plans are sufficient enough to protect and recover their data following a ransomware attack. Inevitably, it will lead to a new regulation, mandating and checking that all organizations from large central bodies to small niche concerns and tertiary partnerships and shared services are all in adherence.

Presumably, each of these organizations already have their own technology investments and continuity plans in place, but to align with a ransomware payment ban and potential regulatory security requirements, they would have to make changes.

The time to plan for ransomware response is, of course, before an incident happens. So adequate continuity and data protection policies can be level-headedly implemented, scaled and – most importantly – tested. This planning phase, on a grander scale, would include making more resources available to help public sector organizations ensure they are resilient and that their backup plans work effectively.

Adopting a “center of excellence” approach would help organizations to be better prepared, protect their users, and recover more effectively. If the government were to be so kind as to implement the ban with a loophole, there would also need to be additional support for CNI organizations that must pay the ransom in order to get back to service delivery. Would there then be specific consideration for public-private partnership or outsourcing providers, and whether those private companies would also be covered by the ban?

Between theory and practice

There’s a fine line between preventing ransomware attacks by turning off the financial incentive and only encouraging attackers to change their tactics. Whereas ransomware attacks are currently often public fanfare, they could be forced into secrecy and we could see less intelligence sharing across the cybersecurity community under a ban.

Ransomware remains lucrative for attackers, so it likely won’t go away any time soon. In response, regardless of the ban, organizations have to adopt real-time threat detection and response capabilities to prevent potential attacks on their cloud deployments as quickly as possible. Ultimately, maintaining effective and tested data backups in the event of something going wrong remains a crucial part of the resiliency equation.

Separating systems across different networks or cloud environments also helps to prevent single points of failure that ransomware actors can exploit, reducing the blast radius and hopefully giving you some flexibility and access during an attack.

In a perfect world, organizations should be able to detect a potential attack and shut it down before the ransomware is deployed. This requires preparation and the right processes and security tools. By continuing to stay one step ahead and preventing attacks, we can hopefully argue against and avoid the ransomware payment ban.

We've featured the best data loss prevention service.

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

JPMorgan has raised the alarm on the growing threat posed by modern software integration models. The global finance corporation released an open letter to its technology suppliers as a call for them to modernize their security or risk being cut off. It’s a bold, necessary move in an era where one weak link can unravel an entire organization's cyber defenses.

Security architecture must be modernized to keep pace with growing threats and ensure organizations can continue to operate safely. However, as well we know, visibility is the bedrock of any resilient security strategy. Without full, real-time insight into all assets, especially those brought in by third-party suppliers, organizations are effectively flying blind. Recent high-profile breaches in the retail sector have shown us that even the most sophisticated enterprises are vulnerable when blind spots exist in their supply chains.

So while the open letter places a lot of emphasis on third parties and their role in supply chain security, it shouldn’t divert responsibility away from businesses themselves. Organizations must take ownership and enforce compliance and security standards across their supplier ecosystem. When disaster strikes, it doesn’t matter where the fault lies, it’s only the victim who suffers.

Third-party risk is first-party responsibility

Expecting every supplier to meet high security standards is only part of the equation. Businesses can’t enforce what you can’t see, and right now, many don’t have real-time visibility into their own assets, let alone those of their partners.

The problem is, too many are still burying their heads in the sand. Many senior executives cling to the dangerous assumption that "the IT team has it covered" or that cyber insurance will magically fix everything after an attack. History is plagued by organizations who underinvested, or perhaps more accurately mis-invested, in cyber resilience and failed to properly understand the risk until they were dealing with a full-blown crisis.

Attacks on retail giants like Target and more recently M&S and the Co-op have shown us what happens when third-party risk is underestimated. These aren’t startups with immature IT, they’re household names with serious resources. And still, the breach came through third-party access points.

Some businesses are genuinely overwhelmed by the technical complexity and competing priorities, but others have simply been lulled into complacency by years of dodging cybersecurity incidents through sheer luck rather than good management.

But it’s not always deliberate ignorance. It often comes down to decision paralysis where leaders are confronted with an intimidating wall of threats and solutions and simply don't know where to begin. This is often combined with a reluctance to spend money when they themselves haven’t experienced an attack. The easiest approach therefore ends up being to delay making a decision. However this inaction just allows security gaps to grow larger by the day as attackers refine their methods.

The unfortunate reality is that many businesses only develop robust cybersecurity practices after suffering a significant breach when the damage is already done.

Don’t invest in more tools; invest in smarter architecture

Boosting cyber resilience is not about adding more tools to an already extensive tech stack; it’s about ensuring that every part of that stack functions cohesively. Collectively, we need less complexity, more clarity and above all, the ability to continuously control. That’s how to build security that lasts.

At a minimum, cybersecurity should be treated like safety or finance at board-level, as something that is supported by automation, continuously monitored and managed and it starts with visibility. Full, continuous visibility across the entire tech stack, including third-party integrations, is the only way to manage modern threat paths. It’s not enough to trust a supplier’s word. You need evidence, you need monitoring, and you need to know the moment something changes.

Regulatory compliance also places huge importance on third party risk, which should be a big indicator that organizations need to take the proactive steps in ensuring that their third parties are secure. The Digital Operational Resilience Act (DORA), The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), ISO 27001 and NIS 2 all mandate that third party risk is now a core compliance requirement.

So, while the knee-jerk response to JPMorgan’s letter might be to bolt on yet another tool, more tech isn’t always the answer. In reality, it often just adds complexity which works against businesses looking for greater cyber resilience.

Take ownership of your security

Managing third party risk isn’t something businesses can shift to their suppliers. Instead the Board must listen to their cyber teams who are crying out for the right systems and support. Only then can they take control and ensure they have the ability to monitor systems continuously, align security frameworks and surface evidence of compliance and risk in real time. That’s where the future of cybersecurity lies, and it will help them prepare for whatever new threats emerge.

If you’re still relying on supplier questionnaires and periodic audits to manage third-party risk, you’re already behind. Working with third-parties is a two way street and requires ongoing collaboration. Businesses are just as responsible for their own security, and must proactively hold partners accountable for their end. JPMorgan’s letter is a wake-up call, but the response shouldn’t be panic. It should be clarity and control.

We've featured the best encryption software.

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

• Android Auto's Spotify app gets a handy little redesign in latest update
• Jam function allows those in the vehicle to collaborate on playlists
• Minor changes to the UI make Spotify easier to navigate

A recent update to the Android Auto Spotify app has introduced some handy design tweaks and an additional feature that lets passengers to get involved in the playlist-curating action.

Arguably the biggest update is the addition of the popular ‘Jam’ function that allows anyone in the car to scan a QR code and then join the Jam session to add tracks to a shared queue. It saves the need for a driver or front passenger to manually enter musical suggestions.

The driver or owner of the Spotify account linked to the Android Auto system still has full control over who can join and suggest music, but the owner must have a Spotify Premium account to commence a Jam session. That said, free users can still join the Jam.

(Image credit: 9to5Google)

Some of the other updates are slightly less obvious, with a mild refresh to the user interface that includes a more prominent ‘Downloaded’ section in the library, which allows for easier navigation to those tracks, podcasts or audiobooks that have been downloaded for offline use.

In addition to this, there is a new floating search shortcut that opens a dedicated search page for Spotify, according to 9to5Google. Prior to this update, voice-operated Google Assistant was the only way to safely search for music when driving.

Rather than Google Assistant finding the track and immediately playing it, the new dedicated Spotify search function allows the user to search for albums and tracks, with the results shown in the Spotify app.

More to come from Android Auto

(Image credit: Google)

In May this year, Google hosted its annual I/O event, which introduced new developer programs and tools that would allow greater flexibility on the Android Auto platform.

Games and communication apps were a particular focus, with the promise of greater video integration when the vehicle is parked. Google also stated that it was working with OEMs to enable audio-only listening for video apps while driving.

According to 9to5google, other media apps will receive similar updates in the coming months, with Amazon Music and YouTube Music all due a refresh.

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Artificial general intelligence (AGI) has become one of the most talked-about topics in technology circles, evoking excitement, speculation and concern. Yet for leaders navigating today’s rapidly evolving AI and digital landscape, the more relevant questions are not about when AGI might arrive, but what it means, why it matters and how to prepare.

As we move through 2025, the AGI conversation must shift from abstract futurism to concrete implications for markets, operations and society.

Explaining AGI beyond the buzzword

Generative AI, which surged in popularity during 2022 and 2023, is undergoing a necessary recalibration. After widespread experimentation, many enterprises are discovering that implementation hurdles—ranging from hallucination risks to integration costs and regulatory uncertainty—are often greater than anticipated.

Gartner now places generative AI in the woeful “trough of disillusionment” category of its Hype Cycle—not because the underlying technologies lack promise, but because expectations exceeded what current systems can reliably deliver.

This moment of pause presents an opportunity for business leaders to reframe the AGI discussion away from timelines and hype, and toward more meaningful strategic considerations. One such consideration is the question of which capabilities truly define AGI—that is, what exactly is AGI?

The term is often used loosely to mean a sort of omniscient software, but in reality, general intelligence encompasses a variety of functions: transferring knowledge across domains, reasoning about causality, navigating social contexts, generating creative solutions and making decisions under uncertainty.

Each of these functions presents distinct technical challenges and offers different kinds of value—and risk. Rather than treating AGI as a monolith, businesses should assess which cognitive functions are most relevant to their industries and operational needs—those capable of best delivering shareholder value, contributing to society, and strengthening long-term strategic advantage.

Moving from AGI benchmarks to AGI benefits

Similarly, progress in AI tools should not be measured by leaderboard performance alone. Accuracy in narrow tasks is not equivalent to intelligence. A model that excels at answering trivia questions may fail catastrophically in unfamiliar or ambiguous scenarios.

For businesses, robustness, adaptability and reliability matter far more than benchmark supremacy. The focus should be on how systems perform in dynamic, real-world environments—how they generalize, how they fail and how those failures are detected and mitigated.

The evolving regulatory landscape

Governance is another area where AGI debates intersect with pressing business concerns. Regulatory frameworks are evolving but remain uneven. The European Union’s AI Act took hold in 2024, establishing specific requirements for high-risk systems. Global standards organizations like ISO and IEEE are proposing early frameworks for AGI safety, but comprehensive oversight mechanisms remain nascent.

For companies operating across jurisdictions or deploying powerful AI models, proactive governance—through internal audits, industry collaboration and policy advocacy—is quickly becoming a strategic necessity.

The here and now of AGI

As businesses grapple with how AGI will work in the future, current AI systems are already reshaping industries and altering risk landscapes, for better and worse. In healthcare, diagnostic tools are improving access and efficiency, while innovations like Google DeepMind’s AlphaFold are accelerating drug discovery. In construction, AI-based safety monitoring has been linked to significant reductions in workplace incidents.

Meanwhile, in finance and commerce, the rise of deepfake technologies has exposed organizations to new forms of fraud and brand risk. In one 2024 poll, 26% of executives said their organization had experienced at least one “deepfake incident targeting financial and accounting data” in the past 12 months—a trend with real implications for cybersecurity and trust.

The labor market is also undergoing transformation. Cognizant’s New work, new world research found that 90% of jobs could be disrupted by generative AI. This change will surely be exacerbated by AGI. For business leaders, this is not merely a workforce planning issue but a strategic opportunity: to invest in reskilling, shape future-of-work policies, and support talent transitions that keep their organizations resilient and competitive.

The time to address AGI questions is now

All these developments suggest that the most urgent AGI-related challenges are not in the distant future—they are here now. The AGI risks that often animate discussions, such as misalignment with human values or concentration of power, are already playing out in today’s systems. Addressing these challenges now not only mitigates near-term harm but also lays the foundation for responsibly navigating more advanced capabilities down the line.

Ultimately, AGI should not be seen as a finish line, but as part of a broader continuum of increasingly capable AI systems. The question may not be when machines might match human intelligence, but what kind of intelligent systems we are choosing to develop today, and whether they align with long-term goals of trust, accountability and economic inclusion.

We list the best Large Language Models (LLMs) for coding.

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

• Ingram Micro tells some employees to work from home as it tackles cyberattack
• Unconfirmed reports claim the attack is the work of SafePay
• No information about stolen data yet

Ingram Micro, a global distributor of information technology (IT) products and services, has confirmed it suffered a ransomware attack which forced it to shut down parts of its infrastructure, prevented it from operating properly, and sent some of its employees to work from home.

In a press release published on its website, the company said it recently identified ransomware on “certain of its internal systems.” As a result, it “proactively” took some systems offline, and implemented “other mitigation measures”. Third-party cybersecurity experts were also brought in to assist with the investigation, and the police were notified.

“Ingram Micro is working diligently to restore the affected systems so that it can process and ship orders, and the company apologizes for any disruption this issue is causing its customers, vendor partners, and others,” the press release concludes.

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Smuggling through

While Ingram Micro did not detail the attack, the culprits, or sensitive files potentially stolen in the attack, BleepingComputer reported that the incident was the work of SafePay, a relatively young ransomware operation that emerged between September and November, 2024.

This group engages in the usual double-extortion tactics (encryption + data theft), and claims to have breached more than 200 organizations across different industries such as manufacturing, healthcare, or education.

The publication also reports that SafePay’s hackers broke in through the company’s GlobalProtect VPN platform, and left ransom notes on employee devices. Some employees were sent to work from home and were allegedly told not to use the GlobalProtect VPN access.

Among the systems impacted by the breach is Ingram Micro’s AI-powered Xvantage distribution platform, and the Impulse license provisioning platform. Other internal services are operating as usual.

Ingram Micro is a giant in the IT products and services industry, servicing more than 160,000 customers globally, including giants such as Apple, HP, or Cisco.

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Our series on identity theft protection apps will evaluate the features, pricing options, competition, and also the overall value of using each app. However, these are not full hands-on reviews since evaluating identity theft protection apps is almost impossible. It would require several months of testing, purposefully hacking accounts to see if the protection app works, handing over personally identifiable information, performing multiple credit checks, and risking exposure of the reviewer’s personally identifiable information.

Undoubtedly, Norton is synonymous with online consumer security and safety. In 1982, Norton LifeLock's predecessor, Symantec, was established. The brand's prominence stems from its renowned antivirus software, which comes preinstalled on many PCs. Despite potential skepticism, the Norton LifeLock identity theft protection app provides reassurance. Trusting this software with personal information is facilitated by the brand's reputation and the company's established presence.

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Norton LifeLock: Plans and pricing

Norton LifeLock offers a range of plans designed to protect individuals and families from identity theft, often bundled with Norton 360's cybersecurity features. The core LifeLock plans typically include Standard, Ultimate Plus, and Advantage, each offering varying levels of identity monitoring, credit monitoring, and Million Dollar Protection Package coverage, which provides reimbursement for stolen funds, personal expense compensation, and coverage for lawyers and experts.

For individuals, these plans offer increasing benefits, from basic alerts and dark web monitoring in the Standard plan to comprehensive three-bureau credit monitoring, bank and investment account alerts, home title monitoring, and social media monitoring in the Ultimate Plus plan. Each plan is available for individuals and can also be expanded to cover Families (2 adults) or families with kids (2 adults + up to 5 kids), providing tailored protection for multiple members.

Many of these LifeLock plans can be bundled with Norton 360, which provides device security (including antivirus, VPN, password manager, cloud backup, etc.) for a specified number of devices or unlimited devices with the Ultimate Plus bundle. This creates an all-in-one cybersecurity and identity theft protection solution. Pricing for these plans varies depending on whether they are purchased monthly or annually, with annual subscriptions typically offering a discounted rate for the first year. Features like Genie Scam Protection Pro, which uses AI to detect scams in texts and emails, are also becoming integrated into these comprehensive offerings.

If you've used Norton Antivirus before, you'll be right at home with Norton LifeLock's user interface (Image credit: Norton LifeLock)Norton LifeLock: Interface

The Norton LifeLock Standard plan is an entry-level option for identity theft protection, focusing on essential monitoring and recovery features. Key benefits include the Million Dollar Protection Package, which offers up to $1 million to lawyers and experts to help resolve identity theft, plus reimbursement of up to $25,000 for stolen funds and up to $25,000 for personal expense compensation. The plan also provides Identity and Social Security Number alerts, notifying you if your information is used for credit or service applications. Dark Web Monitoring actively patrols hard-to-find dark websites and forums to alert you if your personal information is discovered. Additionally, a Privacy Monitor helps reduce the public exposure of your data by scanning common people-search websites and assisting with opt-out requests. It also includes Utility Account Creation Monitoring, which alerts you if someone attempts to open a utility account in your name. For an individual, the LifeLock Standard plan is generally priced at $11.99 per month or a discounted $89.99 for the first year when paid annually (which averages to $7.50 per month for the first year, renewing at $124.99/year). Family plans are also available, with varying pricing for "2 adults" or "2 adults + up to 5 kids." For instance, the "2 adults" plan costs approximately $23.99 per month or $149.87 for the first year when paid annually, while the "2 adults + 5 kids" plan costs around $35.99 per month or $221.87 for the first year when paid annually. It's important to note that these prices are often introductory and may increase upon renewal.

The Norton LifeLock Advantage plan significantly builds upon the foundational protection offered by the Standard plan, providing enhanced coverage and additional monitoring features for a higher level of identity theft defense. While both plans include **Identity and Social Security Number alerts**, **Dark Web Monitoring**, **Privacy Monitor**, and **Utility Account Creation Monitoring**, the Advantage plan significantly enhances the financial safeguards.

One of the most notable differences is the increase in the Million Dollar Protection™ Package reimbursement limits. With LifeLock Advantage, the Stolen Funds Reimbursement jumps from $25,000 in the Standard plan to $100,000. Similarly, Personal Expense Compensation also increases from $25,000 to $100,000. The coverage for Lawyers and Experts remains at up to $1 million in both plans.

Beyond the financial uplift, Advantage introduces new monitoring capabilities. It adds Credit Reports & Credit Scores (One-bureau, Monthly), allowing for more frequent insights into your credit activity, whereas Standard does not include credit reports or scores. It also includes Credit Alerts, such as Phone Takeover Monitoring and Alerts on Crimes Committed in Your Name, which are not present in the Standard plan. Furthermore, LifeLock Advantage includes Identity Lock, specifically for your TransUnion credit file and payday loans, offering an active way to help prevent new accounts from being opened in your name.

In terms of pricing, the LifeLock Advantage plan is typically priced at $22.99 per month or a discounted $179.88 for the first year when paid annually (which averages to $14.99 per month for the first year, renewing at $239.99 per year). For families, the "2 adults" plan costs approximately $45.99 per month or $287.88 for the first year annually (renewing at $479.99/year). The "2 adults + 5 kids" plan is around $57.99 per month or $359.88 for the first year annually (renewing at $579.99/year). As with the Standard plan, these introductory prices are often subject to increase upon renewal.

The Norton LifeLock Ultimate Plus plan represents the pinnacle of identity theft protection offered by LifeLock, providing the most comprehensive features and the highest levels of coverage. It takes all the benefits of the Standard and Advantage plans and significantly amplifies them.

The most significant upgrade in Ultimate Plus is the Million Dollar Protection™ Package. While the Lawyers and Experts coverage remains at up to $1 million, both the Stolen Funds Reimbursement and Personal Expense Compensation are boosted dramatically to up to $1 million each. This is a substantial increase from the $25,000 in Standard and $100,000 in Advantage, offering unparalleled financial protection in the event of severe identity theft.

Beyond increased reimbursement, Ultimate Plus significantly expands monitoring capabilities. It includes Three-Bureau Credit Monitoring (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion), along with Annual Three-Bureau Credit Reports and Scores, providing a comprehensive view of your credit health across all major bureaus. This is a significant improvement over the Advantage plan's one-bureau monitoring. Furthermore, Ultimate Plus adds 401(k) and Investment Account Alerts, as well as Home Title Monitoring, protecting these critical assets from fraudulent activity. It also offers Social Media Monitoring, which helps detect imposter accounts, inappropriate content, and potential scams involving your social media profiles. The plan also typically includes enhanced support, such as 24/7 live member support with priority access. Some newer integrations also feature Genie Scam Protection Pro, an AI-powered tool to help detect and protect against sophisticated online scams, including those delivered via email and SMS.

In terms of pricing, the LifeLock Ultimate Plus plan is generally priced at $34.99 per month or a discounted $239.88 for the first year when paid annually (averaging $19.99 per month for the first year, with a renewal rate of $339.99 per year). For families, the "2 adults" plan costs approximately $69.99 per month or $395.88 for the first year annually (renewing at $679.99/year). The "2 adults + 5 kids" plan is the most expensive, typically around $79.99 per month or $467.88 for the first year annually (renewing at $799.99/year). As with the other plans, these introductory prices are subject to substantially higher renewal costs. When bundled with Norton 360, Ultimate Plus often includes security for an unlimited number of devices and a larger amount of cloud backup storage, providing a truly all-encompassing protection suite.

Norton LifeLock is a full-featured identity theft protection service (Image credit: Norton LifeLock)Norton LifeLock: Features

LifeLock offers a suite of features designed to safeguard users' sensitive information. These features are comparable to those provided by similar programs such as IdentityForce and IDShield. However, LifeLock stands out by presenting these features within a meticulously crafted, user-friendly interface. The interface's design reflects a deep understanding of user needs and a commitment to delivering a seamless experience.

One key aspect of LifeLock's interface is its simplicity. The layout is clean and uncluttered, with each feature clearly labeled and easy to find. This simplicity makes it easy for users to navigate the program and access the tools they need quickly and efficiently.

Another strength of LifeLock's interface is its intuitiveness. The program's features are organized in a logical way that follows the natural flow of a user's thought process. This intuitiveness minimizes the need for users to refer to manuals or tutorials, making it easy for them to get started with LifeLock right away.

In addition to its simplicity and intuitiveness, LifeLock's interface is also most certainly visually appealing. The program features a modern, minimalist design that is both attractive and professional. This aesthetic appeal enhances the user experience, making it more enjoyable and satisfying to use LifeLock.

LifeLock's interface exemplifies the program's dedication to providing an exceptional user experience. By harmonizing simplicity, intuitiveness, and visual allure, LifeLock has crafted an interface that effortlessly allows users to safeguard their sensitive information, fostering peace of mind.

Furthermore, the interface of LifeLock is arguably easier to use, and also cleaner, which means you’ll often find more of the options available with less clicks.

Norton LifeLock: The competition

Similar to tech giants like Facebook and Google, Norton LifeLock stands out as a security firm with unparalleled immediate brand awareness, especially regarding consumer safety. Factors contributing to this recognition include its extensive advertising campaigns on network television and its long-standing presence in the industry. For those who have used computers during the early Windows and Mac eras, the Norton name likely holds familiarity and trust.

In the realm of identity theft protection apps, competitors must contend with the highly respected Norton brand, renowned for its cybersecurity offerings. While lesser-known options such as IdentityForce and IDShield provide similar features, they lack the widespread recognition of Norton. ADT, known for its physical home security solutions, also offers an identity theft protection app, but it falls short in terms of household recognition when compared to Norton.

LifeLock shares many similarities with IdentityForce and IDShield in terms of its features. The premium tier of LifeLock stands out with exclusive offerings such as 401K protection, crime tracking tools under your name, and monitoring across all three major credit agencies. Additionally, the Advantage plan and above provide exceptional features like TransUnion Credit Lock and PayDay Loan Lock services, making LifeLock a compelling choice for identity protection.

In the realm of identity theft protection, IDShield differentiates itself from its rival LifeLock by providing various exclusive features. Notably, IDShield's mobile application integrates social media monitoring, a crucial aspect in the current digital landscape where personal information is frequently shared publicly. This additional layer of protection empowers users to oversee their online presence and promptly respond to potential threats, ensuring enhanced security and peace of mind.

One of IDShield's strengths lies in its collaboration with criminal justice professionals. This valuable service offers users expert insights and guidance through the intricate legal system in the event of identity theft. Criminal justice professionals can provide valuable advice on effectively reporting the crime, acquiring official police reports, and assisting users in understanding the various steps involved in the legal process. This collaboration ensures that users receive comprehensive support throughout their journey to restore their identity and seek justice.

In contrast to LifeLock's premium plans, which lack monitoring and tracking features, IDShield offers these features as part of its more affordable plans. This strategic move by IDShield makes comprehensive protection accessible to a wider range of users, enabling them to enjoy robust security without exceeding their budget.

Standing out as a compelling option for individuals seeking comprehensive identity theft protection, IDShield offers competitive pricing and additional features. Its focus on social media monitoring, discussions with criminal justice professionals, and inclusive pricing plans empowers users to effectively safeguard their personal information. This sets IDShield apart from its competitors and provides users with the tools they need to protect their identity.

Norton LifeLock: Support

All LifeLock plans provide round-the-clock live support, with a toll-free number prominently displayed on their website, which we certainly appreciate. While there's no chat, email, or support portal, the top-tier plan offers higher priority support.

While there are blog articles and answers to frequently asked questions, the website lacks video content, whitepapers and webinars.

Norton LifeLock: Final verdict

Norton LifeLock operates in a highly competitive landscape, where it faces numerous challenges from various identity theft protection software providers. In this crowded market, the ability to stand out is crucial, and brand awareness plays a pivotal role in differentiating Norton LifeLock from its many rivals. Recognized as a leader in cybersecurity, Norton LifeLock benefits from a strong reputation, built over years of trust and reliability.

One notable challenge for Norton LifeLock is the complexity of its paid plans. Customers are presented with a wide array of options, each tailored to different security needs and family sizes. This multitude of choices can be overwhelming for potential users, leading to confusion about which plan best meets their specific requirements. For families or individuals unfamiliar with identity theft protection services, this complexity could be a significant deterrent, potentially driving them to seek simpler alternatives from competitors.

However, despite this potential drawback, Norton LifeLock excels in the area of user experience. Its interface is meticulously designed, characterized by a clean and intuitive layout that prioritizes user-friendliness. All features are organized logically, allowing customers to easily navigate through various tools and resources without feeling lost or frustrated. This commitment to a seamless user experience not only enhances customer satisfaction but also fosters a sense of confidence in the software’s capabilities.

Moreover, Norton LifeLock offers a range of educational resources and support materials, helping customers better understand how to protect their identities online. These resources contribute significantly to the company’s value proposition, as they empower users with knowledge and tools to safeguard their personal information proactively.

Overall, while Norton LifeLock certainly faces tough competition in the identity theft protection market, its strong brand recognition and exceptionally designed user interface serve as formidable competitive advantages. Nevertheless, simplifying the selection process for its paid plans could greatly enhance the customer experience, making it easier for potential clients to identify and choose the most suitable security solutions for their needs. By addressing this complexity, Norton LifeLock could capture a broader audience and solidify its position as a top choice for identity theft protection.

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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 Monday's puzzle instead then click here: NYT Connections hints and answers for Monday, July 7 (game #757).

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 #758) - today's words

(Image credit: New York Times)

Today's NYT Connections words are…

• FLING
• KEY
• CARPENTER
• BENCH
• PIN
• CANDY
• MAJOR
• THING
• MIRROR
• LEGEND
• AFFAIR
• CODE
• SCALE
• PASSWORD
• LOCKER
• RELATIONS

NYT Connections today (game #758) - hint #1 - group hints

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

• YELLOW: On the side
• GREEN: Where athletes go after a game
• BLUE: “Open up”
• PURPLE: Share the same name

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 #758) - hint #2 - group answers

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

• YELLOW: LIAISON 
• GREEN: SEEN IN A LOCKER ROOM 
• BLUE: SOMETHING ENTERED FOR ACCESS 
• PURPLE: JOHNS 

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

NYT Connections today (game #758) - the answers

(Image credit: New York Times)

The answers to today's Connections, game #758, are…

• YELLOW: LIAISON AFFAIR, FLING, RELATIONS, THING
• GREEN: SEEN IN A LOCKER ROOM BENCH, LOCKER, MIRROR, SCALE
• BLUE: SOMETHING ENTERED FOR ACCESS CODE, KEY, PASSWORD, PIN
• PURPLE: JOHNS CANDY, CARPENTER, LEGEND, MAJOR

• My rating: Easy
• My score: Perfect

This was one of the easiest rounds of Connections I can remember, with no crossover confusion and four very gettable groups.

Despite this I’m still annoyed that I didn’t get JOHNS, as it was the first thing I thought of when I saw LEGEND and CANDY, but I pursued LIASON instead. Including a vintage British prime minister may have thrown some players, but as a vintage Brit myself I had no such excuse.

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

Yesterday's NYT Connections answers (Monday, July 7, game #757)

• YELLOW: INFORMANT CANARY, LEAK, RAT, SOURCE
• GREEN: BIG IMPRESSION FOOTPRINT, IMPACT, MARK, SPLASH
• BLUE: BASKETBALL MOVES BLOCK, DRIBBLE, PASS, SHOOT
• PURPLE: TOP___ BANANA, DOG, HAT, SECRET

What is NYT Connections?

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

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

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

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

Looking for a different day?

A new NYT Strands puzzle appears at midnight each day for your time zone – which means that some people are always playing 'today's game' while others are playing 'yesterday's'. If you're looking for Monday's puzzle instead then click here: NYT Strands hints and answers for Monday, July 7 (game #491).

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

• Today's NYT Strands theme is… So extra

NYT Strands today (game #492) - hint #2 - clue words

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

• SOME 
• TRIP
• DEAR
• STONE
• SORE
• PRAM

NYT Strands today (game #492) - hint #3 - spangram lettersHow many letters are in today's spangram?

• Spangram has 6 letters

NYT Strands today (game #492) - hint #4 - spangram positionWhat are two sides of the board that today's spangram touches?

First side: left, 5th row

Last side: right, 5th row

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

NYT Strands today (game #492) - the answers

(Image credit: New York Times)

The answers to today's Strands, game #492, are…

• TIME
• CHANGE
• KEYS
• MOMENT
• BEDROOM
• HANDS
• PARTS
• TIRES
• SPANGRAM: SPARES

• My rating: Hard
• My score: 1 hint

It took me a while to move on today after getting TIME, so I took a hint from my many non-game words and CHANGE made me switch from thinking we were looking for extra things to spare things.

The spangram SPARES was disconcertingly short; I was looking for other words to tag on to “spare” before finally just adding the S.

That said, it was a pleasant change from those big curly spangram snakes that take up big chunks of the board.

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

Yesterday's NYT Strands answers (Monday, July 7, game #491)

• BUNK
• LAKE
• FLAGPOLE
• CANTEEN
• LODGE
• FIELDHOUSE
• SPANGRAM: SUMMER CAMP

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 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 Monday's puzzle instead then click here: Quordle hints and answers for Monday, July 7 (game #1260).

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 #1261) - hint #1 - VowelsHow many different vowels are in Quordle today?

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

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

Quordle today (game #1261) - hint #2 - repeated lettersDo any of today's Quordle answers contain repeated letters?

• The number of Quordle answers containing a repeated letter today is 0.

Quordle today (game #1261) - hint #3 - uncommon lettersDo the letters Q, Z, X or J appear in Quordle today?

• Yes. One of Q, Z, X or J appears among today's Quordle answers.

Quordle today (game #1261) - hint #4 - starting letters (1)Do any of today's Quordle puzzles start with the same letter?

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

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

Quordle today (game #1261) - hint #5 - starting letters (2)What letters do today's Quordle answers start with?

• P

• P

• G

• O

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

Quordle today (game #1261) - the answers

(Image credit: New York Times)

The answers to today's Quordle, game #1261, are…

• PLIED
• PRANK
• GAWKY
• OXIDE

This was a really difficult one.

Somehow I managed to get through without a mistake. This was mainly due to using common letter combinations – PRA and GA and IDE and LIED – and then filling in the blanks. It doesn’t always work, but it did for me today.

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

Daily Sequence today (game #1261) - the answers

(Image credit: New York Times)

The answers to today's Quordle Daily Sequence, game #1261, are…

• GODLY
• GIANT
• PRIOR
• HARRY

Quordle answers: The past 20

• 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
• Quordle #1252, Sunday, 29 June: MIRTH, APTLY, SCRUB, SMACK
• Quordle #1251, Saturday, 28 June: AWOKE, SMOKY, DEVIL, SWING
• Quordle #1250, Friday, 27 June: SPEAK, EAGLE, AVERT, SUING
• Quordle #1249, Thursday, 26 June: SLUMP, REBUS, GUAVA, MONEY
• Quordle #1248, Wednesday, 25 June: SOGGY, CLASH, MODEM, SQUAD
• Quordle #1247, Tuesday, 24 June: QUALM, SQUIB, AXIAL, FLACK
• Quordle #1246, Monday, 23 June: PIXEL, FJORD, STEAL, EXIST
• Quordle #1245, Sunday, 22 June: WREST, CRAZE, PAPAL, SCION
• Quordle #1244, Saturday, 21 June: BUDDY, GROUT, BEGIN, MADAM
• Quordle #1243, Friday, 20 June: BRAID, DULLY, HASTE, LURID
• Quordle #1242, Thursday, 19 June: BRUSH, ISLET, FRUIT, PRIVY

• Nvidia is rumored to be cutting production of RTX 5000 GPUs
• Manufacturing levels are supposedly looking at a cut of 20% or more in July
• If true, as the effects of that filter through, we can expect price rises by September

Nvidia could be planning to cut down production of its RTX 5000 graphics cards, according to a new rumor, which would of course mean less stock on shelves.

Japanese tech blog Gazlog noticed a Chiphell post (via Wccftech) claiming this is the case, and that Nvidia has already reduced supply of its Blackwell graphics cards as of June.

We're told that in May 2025, RTX 5000 supply stabilized and stock levels of the GPUs increased, with prices falling – in some cases, below MSRP. Team Green has therefore seemingly decided to reduce stock levels from July, with supply expected to drop by between 20% to 30% compared to June - and as noted, there's already been something of a cut in production for June.

Of course, less inventory would mean the possible specter of GPU price rises, but we must be very careful around the speculation aired here – particularly because it derives from Chiphell, which isn't always the most reliable source (though it has provided hardware rumors that have proved true in the past).

(Image credit: Future / John Loeffler)Analysis: Grab a GPU quickly?

I'd be particularly cautious about this rumor since the theorized drop in production is a hefty one. If true, though, it would mean that prices for Nvidia's RTX 5000 GPUs are surely set to rise.

Why would Nvidia be planning such a move? Well, part of the assertion made here is that prices have fallen too much, due to GPU stock getting beefed up beyond the demand that's out there. Another theory is that Nvidia may want to allocate chips elsewhere – namely to graphics cards for China, and primarily the new version of the GeForce RTX 5090 D (the Asian variant of the Blackwell flagship). The latter sounds a plausible enough scenario.

Of course, if production is indeed being adjusted as this rumor suggests, the effects of that won't be felt immediately, but rather in a couple of months. (As there are already chips out there being distributed, of course, in the long chain of events that happens when putting together graphics cards).

This amounts to the prospect of price rises around September time, and funnily enough, that idea chimes with other chatter from the GPU grapevine that we've been hearing lately. Namely the speculation from Moore's Law is Dead on YouTube that due to various factors – relating to both tariffs, and hardware upgrades because of the end of support for Windows 10 – graphics card price hikes are coming in Q4 of 2025 (from October, in other words).

All of which, given this fresh rumor, adds up to some seriously heavy hinting that now might be the best time to buy a GPU, particularly if you're eyeing up one of Nvidia's RTX 5000 models. And with Prime Day about to happen – and early deals already available, in fact – you might want to keep a close eye on potential GPU bargains therein. Any discounted graphics cards could possibly represent the cheapest prices you might see this year, as Black Friday will come too late to avoid what's in the pipeline in terms of price rises, at least in theory.

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• PowerShell 2.0 gets pulled from the latest Windows 11 Insider build
• Versions 5.1 and 7.x are the best replacements
• No word on removal from Windows Server

Microsoft has confirmed PowerShell 2.0 is officially being removed from Windows, starting with the latest Windows 11 Insider builds – Build 27891 (Canary Channel).

The news comes eight years after PowerShell 2.0 was deprecated in 2017 due to dependency-related delays (for example older SQL Server versions), but Microsoft retained backwards compatibility to ease the transition.

It's not to say that PowerShell has gone entirely – instead, users will be directed to version 5.1 (which comes preinstalled on most modern Windows editions) or 7.x (which offer cross-platform support).

PowerShell 2.0 finally steps aside for newer versions

As a reminder of how long PowerShell 2.0 has been around, it originally shipped with Windows 7, Vista and XP, as well as Server 2003 and 2008. Although it's set to be removed with the latest version of Windows 11, Microsoft has not shared any plans to remove it from Windows Server as yet.

"More information will be shared in the coming months on the removal of Windows PowerShell 2.0 in an upcoming update for Windows 11," Windows Insider Program Lead Amanda Langowski and Principal Product Manager Brandon LeBland wrote in a blog post.

The removal of PowerShell 2.0 is the biggest update coming in upcoming versions of Windows 11, but Build 27891 also includes fixes to the 'Reset this PC' option, taskbar acrylic rendering, non-English characters (like Vietnamese and Arabic) and other bugs, including Windows Update getting stuck at 2% on some devices.

Redmond also acknowledged some issues with the update, including a Windows Hello pin and biometrics glitch on Copilot+ PCs and rendering issues for remote desktops on ARM64 machines.

In the meantime, users wanting a more reliable OS can exit the Canary Channel by installing a fresh copy of Windows 11.

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I've been using the Logitech MeetUp in a conference room I frequent for quite some time. I purchased this camera system shortly after its release, and it has performed exceptionally well. I had no issues and no desire to upgrade until I saw the announcement for the new MeetUp 2. With its upgraded features and claims of being the best, I couldn't resist giving it a try.

Having a good camera system that is easy to use, still quality enough to be worth using, and doesn't break the bank, is hard to find. I've been in my fair share of conference rooms where only the person who set up the system really knows how to get things running and everyone else struggles along until that person comes around.

I'm not sure about you, but as an IT professional in multiple areas, I don't want to be the only person who can set up a basic virtual meeting for my staff. I want them to be able to do that on their own, and easily.

That's where something like the Logitech MeetUp 2 comes in. Like many of the best business webcams I've tried, it's flexible enough to be a dedicated device set up, or be a BYOD kind of setup. Either one works just as well as the other, and both have their obvious pros and cons. Regardless, the big piece is that they are both able to be done with ease, quickly, and without needing to call in the professionals.

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future )Logitech MeetUp 2: Pricing and Availability

The Logitech MeetUp 2 is sold via Logitech's website for $899. You can also grab this hardware from some other business retailers, but the best place to grab it would be straight from Logitech.

The only other price to be aware of is the optional AI enhancements which is a subscription, and the fact that if you want to access full 4K camera footage, you'll need to grab a USB-C 3 or above, which is not included in the box.

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future )Logitech MeetUp 2: Unboxing & first impressions

The Logitech MeetUp 2 was extremely easy to set up. I first removed the old Logitech MeetUp from the wall and the mount, then I added the wall mount (the best option for my setup) to the wall under my TV and ensured it was centered. Next, I mounted the Logitech MeeUp2 to the mounting plate and ran the necessary wires.

I ran power to an outlet, and a USB-C cable has been tucked away, mounted behind the conference room TV. I chose this setup over BYOD because I already had a Mac mini, and it makes sense to keep using it.

However, in a future room expansion, I will probably move to a BYOD setup, running the USB-C cable to a conference table for individuals to plug in their own devices. Once that's done, you'll also need to run an HDMI cable from the MeetUp2 to the TV.

Logitech MeetUp 2: Design & Build Quality

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future )Specs

Camera: 4K, 120° diagonal FoV, 4× digital zoom;
Audio: 6‑mic array, beamforming,
Video Modes: Group, Speaker, Grid, Zone via RightSight 2
Audio Processing: RightSound 2 echo/ noise suppression, voice leveling
Connectivity: USB‑C 3.1 host, HDMI loop‑out, Ethernet, Wi‑Fi, Bluetooth LE
Deployment: USB or BYOD via active cable; managed with Logitech Sync

The design is simple and easy to use, the ports are clearly labeled, and the assembly went super smoothly. I love all-in-one design, keeping things simple. I also love how minimal it all is,

This conference room camera doesn't look out of place, too big, or like someone is watching you if you are meeting in person in this room, and that's exactly what I'm talking about.

The stand or base has a multi-mount option built-in, making it so you can mount it on a wall, above a TV, below the TV, on a shelf, or more.

Logitech MeetUp 2: In use

The Logitech MeetUp 2 is a super simple, plug-and-play kind of setup. The AI enhancements really make this a powerful machine without any knowledge. Within moments of having this package opened up, I had the MeetUp 2 assembled, hung, plugged in, and working.

During meetings, I love how the AI built-in will automatically frame for two people if there are two people, and one person for one, and a dozen for a dozen. Further, as people are discussing things, the RightAudio 2 system will focus on what is being said, making it super easy to know what is needed.

I don't use the cloud feature extensively, but having the smart AI built-in has been sufficient for me so far. I'm sure that if I were managing several, the paid upgrade would probably be worth it.

Coming from the first-generation MeetUp, at first I was wary of not having the remote to control the camera manually, but after an abundance of meetings now, I've been quite happy with the AI. The control freak in me has taken a backseat, and the tech-lover in me has been really pleased with the AI. The audio is exceptionally clear; the video continually adjusts to my preferences, adapting to the room's occupants. Even when we're seated across a long conference table, the camera zooms in automatically to create a logical view.

Attributes

Notes

Rating

Design

Minimalist and professional

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Ease of use

Easy to use

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Practicality

Great for those wanting a simple chair for their home office

⭐⭐⭐⭐

Price

Priced well for the product

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Logitech MeetUp 2: Final verdict

The Logitech MeetUp 2 is a fantastic conference room device for any small to mid-size room where you have a lot of virtual meeting rooms. It will use AI to help smart-zoom into the people who are talking, automatically adjust if another person joins the meeting, and do it all in a simple, easy-to-set-up box.

If you are looking for a good conference camera for your setup, look no further than the Logitech MeetUp 2 system. It's probably a dream come true.

• Foundation star Lee Pace says viewers won't recognize Brother Day in season 3
• Unlike his forebears, the Empire's primary leader has no interest in ruling the galaxy
• Apple's highly-rated space opera returns on Friday, July 11

Foundation season 3's version of Brother Day is a marked departure from the autocratic ruler we've seen in previous seasons. That's according to Lee Pace, who's starred in the Apple TV+ show since the beginning, and who suggested fans will be shocked when they meet this season's take on the character.

Brother Day is one of many seemingly identical clones of Cleon I, the Imperium's first tyrannical overlord, who laud it over the galaxy. However, think back to Foundation season 1 episode 9, and you'll remember Cleon I's DNA was tampered with by galactic rebels, which means his clones become more unique with each generation that passes. Long story short: each clone has their own distinct personalities, ideologies, and agendas.

Where season 3's free-spirited iteration of Day is concerned, he has no interest in ruling alongside this entry's Brother Dawn (Cassian Bilton) and Brother Dusk (Terrance Mann).

Sure, Day is as self-serving as past iterations but, instead of channeling his energy into maintaining the Empire's grip on the galaxy, Day is only concerned with enjoying life's simple pleasures. That's especially true due to the Imperium's rapidly dwindling influence on the galaxy, which is laid bare in Foundation's season 3 premiere.

It's this slacker persona and Day's garish wardrobe this season that immediately reminded me of The Dude, aka the apathetic protagonist played by Jeff Bridges in 1998 cult classic movie The Big Lebowski.

When I raised this with Pace in a recent interview, he laughed, admitted he could see the resemblance, and then described how he approached this reshaping of Day as an individual.

Events that transpire in season 3 cause Day to leave the sanctity of The Imperium's palace (Image credit: Apple TV+)

"That's always the fun part of the riddle inside this character," Pace said. "They [Dawn, Day, and Dusk] are different people because they've broken out of this construct that they're the same person, so you can really start to develop who they are.

"This season, you've got a Day who thinks he's absolutely unique. He doesn't care [about the Empire] and he resents them all [Dawn, Dusk, and Laura Birn's robot major domo Demerzel]. He's got an emotional detachment from the position he holds and is only interested in pleasure.

"He just wants to be lazy, fat, and happy," Pace continued. "There's something really fun about playing that kind of character at the so-called end of days. The wolf [Empire's possible downfall] is at the door and the Emperor [Day] is so indifferent to it. It cracks me up."

Foundation's third season will premiere on Apple's streaming platform, aka one of the world's best streaming services, on July 11.

Before it does, read my Foundation season 3 review to see what I thought of its first five episodes and then read my ultimate guide on Foundation season 3 for more on its cast, plot, and the sci-fi series' future.

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• Windows 11 has finally overtaken Windows 10 for market share
• 52% of those using Microsoft's desktop operating systems are now on Windows 11
• That's a hefty swing of almost 10% away from Windows 10

At long last, Windows 11 is present on more PCs globally than Windows 10, at least according to one set of figures from an analytics firm.

StatCounter provided fresh statistics for July which show that Windows 11 has accelerated to account for 52% of all Windows versions worldwide, leaving Windows 10 in its wake on 44.59%.

That's quite a shift from the previous month where Windows 10 remained just in the lead on 48.76% with Windows 11 on 47.98%. So, Windows 11 was not far off a full percentage point behind in June, but is now in the lead by 7.4%, a swing of near 10%.

Could this be the start of a mass exodus of Windows 10 stalwarts fleeing for the shores of Windows 11? Well, that can't be ruled out, and it's clear that time is running short when it comes to the looming deadline for the end of support for Windows 10, which is October 2025 - which is only three months away now.

However, I'm not convinced that there will be a stampede of migrators, because while I've argued in the past that you should be making the upgrade to Windows 11 early - assuming you can (due to your PC's spec) - there's no longer quite the same sense of urgency in this matter.

Why not? Let's go over that next.

Analysis: Support and scrapheaps

(Image credit: Microsoft)

Something changed with Windows 10's extended support program for consumers recently, and it's worth recapping in case you missed it. Microsoft decided to offer an alternative to the $30 fee that was previously required to get an extra year of security updates for Windows 10 (through to October 2026).

So, instead of stumping up that cash, you can now elect to have the Windows Backup app sync all your PC's settings to the cloud. If you allow that to happen - via signing in with a Microsoft Account - then you can get the extra year of all-important security updates at no cost. This gives you a lot more breathing space to work out what you might want to do next, which is great for those who can't upgrade to Windows 11 due to its loftier system requirements (or those who simply refuse).

Of course, 'free' is not usually completely free, and the cost here, as it were, is allowing your settings to be synced. Due to this, some online commenters have accused Microsoft of almost a kind of 'blackmail' in terms of getting access to your data. However, I should note that the wording of Microsoft's offer is important here, and you're not syncing all your personal data to OneDrive or anything - all you have to sync are your Windows settings.

And having those settings synced should help in the future, too, if you want to make the transition to Windows 11 (or the following version of Windows) at a later date on a new PC. Microsoft's hope, it seems, is this will make that transition easier, and so folks are therefore more likely to tread that path.

I don't think there's any underlying motive from Microsoft here to get its claws into your personal data as some are suggesting, so in my book, this all seems fair enough. If you're not convinced, however, that's equally fair - you don't have to take Microsoft up on this option. You can pay instead (or redeem 1,000 Microsoft Rewards points, if you have them, which is another alternative), or just go ahead and switch from Windows 10 come its End of Life in October 2025.

Whatever you do, don't stay on Windows 10 without security updates - never mind worrying about Microsoft's nose potentially being in your data, a hacker could really make your life a misery by compromising your PC due to an unpatched vulnerability because your system doesn't have security updates.

Taking a broader perspective, I've half-convinced myself that Microsoft may even offer more than a year of additional support to consumers (in the same way it treats businesses).

Mainly because this new Windows Backup-related offer has come in at the last minute, largely I suspect to assuage some of the fears of the 'towering scrapheap of Windows 10 PCs' activists who are (rightly) concerned about the environmental impact of Microsoft's Windows 11 system requirements. (Those that prevent a lot of would-be upgraders from moving to the newer OS, due to having an older CPU, or the lack of a specific security feature, TPM 2.0).

And so I don't think it's unimaginable that Microsoft might offer a second year of extended support for consumers, and I very firmly believe the company should do so. We shall see, but for now, with an extra year of support on the table for free (effectively), there's no need to rush to abandon Windows 10 for many folks. Not unless your trust in Microsoft is particularly low, or you don't have a Microsoft account and don't want to sign up for one (to sync your settings).

There are, of course, other options aside from Windows - the main one being a switch to Linux. Of course, in that case, you need to be prepared to leave Microsoft's ecosystem and put up with some of the limitations that one of the best Linux distros will come with (mainly around compatible software, particularly PC games).

Meanwhile, we can expect further spikes in adoption for Windows 11 in the near future, although perhaps not to the same extent that some people might expect, given those extra choices Microsoft has just introduced.

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The best Netflix movies often get a sequel, but that’s not gone down too well for 2020’s The Old Guard. Its sequel is part of everything coming to Netflix in July 2025, but after arriving on the platform last week, critics and fans alike have given the superhero action film a big thumbs down.

If you’re not familiar with the plot, Charlize Theron plays Andy, who leads a group of immortal mercenaries that are able to heal themselves. In the sequel movie, they face off against a new enemy in the name of protecting humanity, all the while dealing with a long-lost immortal’s return.

Unfortunately, many have highlighted problems with the film, including an undeveloped script and a cheap overall look, which have been cited as reasons not to bother with The Old Guard 2. Still, the sequel has managed to make it into Netflix’s top 10 most-watched movies, and I think there’s an overlooked reason for why it should stay there.

Why I recommend watching The Old Guard 2

Spoilers follow for The Old Guard 2.

Two words: Charlize Theron. More specifically, four words: Charlize Theron’s leading romance. Cut through the noise of reviews and enraged social media posts, and you’ll find a deserved appreciation for the will-they-won’t-they love at the movie’s centre. Andy has an unspoken connection with Quỳnh (Veronica Ngô), an immortal who used to be connected to The Old Guard. We met the pair during the first film, but the sequel brings fans ever-closer to a potential Andy-Quỳnh kiss.

It doesn’t happen, but that’s almost not the point. The Old Guard 2 might not be hitting all the beats of a well-crafted film, but it’s playing this particular storyline to its advantage. By taking the time to develop what’s between them in the background, there will be a more satisfying payoff in the long run – and that means the increased possibility of The Old Guard 3.

Even if that doesn’t happen – Andy and Quỳnh clearly only have eyes for each other even after 500 years alive. Netflix should be praised for exploring a different kind of vulnerability and representation .It’s not an outright LGBTQ+ film, but the new Netflix movie is giving us range in its love, and we can all get something from that.

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• The Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra could be far slimmer than the iPhone 17 Pro Max
• However, not all sources agree on how thick Samsung's phone will be
• Samsung's upcoming flagship might also have more RAM than its predecessor, among other spec changes

The Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra and the iPhone 17 Pro Max are arguably two of the most highly anticipated upcoming phone releases, but while they’re both sure to excel in most areas, the Galaxy S26 Ultra may have the edge in at least one way.

According to @UniverseIce – a leaker with a good track record – the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra will be under 8mm thick, while the iPhone 17 Pro Max will be 8.76mm thick.

We’ve heard roughly that thickness for the iPhone 17 Pro Max before, with another source saying it will be 8.75mm thick, but this is the first we’re hearing of the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra’s thickness.

The designs of iPhone16 Pro max and Galaxy S25 Ultra are the closest at the moment, and their length, width and thickness are basically the same.However, iPhone17 Pro Max and Galaxy S26 Ultra will be the beginning of two completely different designs. The thickness of iPhone 17…July 6, 2025

If this latest leak is correct then the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra will be significantly slimmer than the iPhone 17 Pro Max, and – as the source points out – this could also be a sign of diverging design philosophies for these two brands, as while the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra and iPhone 16 Pro Max are almost identically thick, at 8.2mm and 8.3mm respectively. This change would see Samsung slimming down its flagship, while Apple goes in the opposite direction.

This source also claims that the weight difference between these phones will be even greater, though they don't specify how much each handset will weigh.

However, while the source of this leak has a good track record, we would take it with a pinch of salt, especially as another Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra specs leak suggests the phone will instead be 8.1mm thick.

This comes from leaker @PandaFlashPro (via NotebookCheck), and while they don’t have quite as much of a track record to go on as @UniverseIce, they have correctly leaked Samsung information in the past.

A new chipset and more RAM

This isn’t the only Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra detail @PandaFlashPro leaked, as they also claim it will have a Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 chipset, and a similar 6.9-inch screen to the current model, just with different (presumably smaller) bezels.

Additionally, they state that the number and layout of camera lenses will remain the same, just without the large camera rings found on the S25 Ultra, and that there will once again be a 200MP main camera, but that this will be packing a new lens.

There will also apparently once again be a 50MP ultra-wide camera, a 50MP 5x telephoto, and a 3x telephoto lens that may or may not have a new sensor.

In the case of the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra the 3x telephoto has a 10MP sensor, but supposedly the company hasn’t decided whether to replace this or not. The front-facing camera though will apparently be improved, with new features like 4K 120fps slow-motion video recording.

@PandaFlashPro also claims that storage will remain unchanged, with 256GB, 512GB, and 1TB configurations set to be offered, and all of these are said to come with 16GB of RAM, while in the case of the Galaxy S25 Ultra they come with 12GB.

Other listed specs include a 20% larger vapor chamber, and the return of a 5,000mAh battery with 45W wired charging. As with the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra it’s also said to support Qi2 magnetic wireless charging – but only with the addition of a magnetic case.

But with the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra not likely to land until early next year, we’d take all of this with a pinch of salt, as it’s still very early for leaks and rumors. Before that though, we're expecting the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7, both of which will probably land on July 9.

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