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• Lyon has confirmed plans to pull the plug on some Microsoft software
• European and open source software are the preferred alternatives
• Other European cities are making similar moves

France's third-largest city, Lyon, is the latest European city to have ditched Microsoft Office in favor of open-source software alternatives.

It's a move which is gaining traction across Europe, as countries look to reduce their dependence on American software amid ongoing geopolitical tensions, while simultaneously boosting sovereignty.

At the same time, ditching Microsoft will enable Lyon to extend the lifespan of its hardware to reduce its environmental impact, with open source software less likely to impose end-of-life dates such as the upcoming Windows 10 deprecation in October 2025.

Lyon switches away from Microsoft

In an online memo, Lyon's office explained it would be transitioning away from Microsoft software towards OnlyOffice, developed by a group of Latvian developers, as well as Linux and PostgreSQL.

As part of the move, Territoire Numérique Ouvert is also being adopted as an alternative for video conferencing and office automation.

It's believed that the Lyon government employs around 10,000 individuals, making this a colossal shift that could require large amounts of retraining and upskilling. Munich previously attempted a similar switch, but later reversed the move due to compatibility issues and user dissatisfaction.

Still, with EU-US tensions at an all-time high, the movement is gaining traction once more.

Germany's Schleswig-Holstein recently announced plans to end contracts for Microsoft software including Teams, with neighbouring Danish cities Copenhagen and Aarhus also reportedly exploring options.

Microsoft counts enough customers in its order books for it not to have to worry about losing Lyon, with the move instead marking a symbolic shift. However, if more European cities begin to turn their backs on Microsoft, the American tech giant could begin to see financial impacts.

TechRadar Pro has asked Microsoft for thoughts on the ongoing European trend, but we did not receive an immediate response.

You might also like

• Denmark wants to replace Windows and Office with Linux and LibreOffice as it seeks to embrace digital sovereignty
• Check out our roundup of the best online collaboration tools
• We've listed the best Microsoft Teams alternatives

• Freelancers are using ChatGPT to help them work - and then charging more
• Businesses are still saving money by paying freelancers over employees
• Policies must be revised to "support this new way of working"

Freelancers are now able to earn more thanks to AI, according to research from Fiverr comparing UK-based freelancers with business decision-makers in Britain.

The data claims one in five UK business leaders also relies on freelancers to fill AI kills gaps, with two in five (38%) businesses actively seeking workers with AI expertise.

Despite the productivity gains freelancers are seeing from artificial intelligence, many (44%) are charging more for AI-driven work, boosting their income while simultaneously reducing their workloads.

Freelancers are unlocking more money with AI

More than half of the freelancers surveyed said they wouldn't be able to work without AI – many can now save several hours per week on their work, with some boasting that they're saving two full working days every week.

More than two in five say they're able to set their own hours, with around three-quarters also setting their own rates. Nearly as many (70%) claim to be earning more than they were in full-time roles as a result.

ChatGPT was found to be the most popular tool (70%), with Google (38%), Gemini (33%) and Microsoft Copilot (24%) also widely used.

Despite the considerable boosts, a significant proportion of freelancers (36%) expressed concerns that AI could eventually automate parts of their role.

Fiverr also explored the shift away from traditional workers, revealing that most businesses (87%) plan to hire freelancers up to 10 times in the next six months. Two in five UK businesses claim to be using more freelancers in 2025 than ever before, with companies saving on average £33,000 per month by favoring freelancers over in-house employees.

However, with the added flexibility come increased financial complications – more than half (55%) stated that current tax laws deter businesses from hiring freelancers, and only two in five (39%) freelancers feel supported by the government.

Reduced worker protections and rights have also caused freelancers to have to consider diversifying their income – 70% now have more than two.

Looking ahead, there's a clear need for some readjustments to be made to accommodate the shifting worker patterns.

Fiverr UK Country Manager Michele Tropeano summarized: "Portfolio careers are moving mainstream and becoming the backbone of the UK workforce."

"To truly harness this potential, we need modern policies and systems that support this new way of working, not hold it back."

You might also like

• Check out the best freelance websites
• Struggling to put pen to paper? These are the best AI writers
• AI usage for workers is skyrocketing – and its actually doing everything it promised

Acer Chromebook Spin 312: Two-minute review

The Acer Chromebook Spin 312 is the smallest device in the brand’s line of 2-in-1 Chromebooks, measuring just 12.2 inches. Despite this, it’s not the sleekest Chromebook around, with its sharp angles and juts spoiling the otherwise elegant design, which is aided by the quality of the materials used in its construction.

It’s quite thick and heavy for its size, so it’s perhaps not ideal for using as a tablet, despite its convertible nature. But thanks to that solid hinge for the lid, it can be propped upside down and used exclusively in touchscreen mode with ease.

It’s not just the hinge mechanism that’s well made – all aspects of the Spin 312 feel as solid and sturdy as any of the best Chromebooks, including the keys and trackpad, which feel premium to the touch as well.

Port selection is reasonable, too, although I would’ve liked to have seen more than just one USB-C port, and the lack of an SD card slot might be detrimental for some. Thankfully, there are two USB-A ports to improve connectivity options, and the HDMI port and audio jack are further additions I welcome.

The review unit I had came equipped with an Intel N100 processor and 4GB of RAM. Despite these underwhelming specs, the Chromebook Spin 312 performed admirably, handling many typical Chromebook workloads quite well. However, slowdowns can occur when pushed a little too far.

(Image credit: Future)

Such cases include gaming, where the Chromebook Spin 312 struggled to run even fairly modest mobile games on high settings during my testing. However, lowering these did improve matters to the point where games such as Asphalt Legends Unite were playable to an enjoyable extent.

More pleasing on the performance front is the display. The resolution looks especially sharp on the 12-inch screen, although colors aren’t rendered as vibrantly as they are on some rival Chromebooks. The bezels also encroach quite considerably on the allotted real estate for the screen, and the display can be quite reflective under certain conditions. In most cases, though, it makes for a pleasant viewing experience.

The touch inputs are also quite responsive, tracking well with swipes to make drawing and handwriting a realistic option, although it can be a little grabby at times. You’ll also need to provide your own stylus if you want to make the most of your creative time with the Chromebook Spin 312.

I found the touchpad disappointingly inaccurate by comparison, as it failed to track with what I was expecting from my movements, leading to a lagging and stuttering, which in turn made it imprecise.

Thankfully, I had a better time typing on the Chromebook Spin 312, thanks to the generous spacing of the keys and their satisfying dampening. Their lack of indentations and grip, however, can lead to slipping and mispresses on occasion.

Its battery life is impressive, lasting just over 11 hours in our test. This places it near the higher end of the Chromebook spectrum – the Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 3 Chromebook performs significantly better on this front, although admittedly this is somewhat of an outlier.

The Chromebook Spin 312 sits somewhere in the middle of the convertible Chromebook market. Some rivals are better performers, while others have a sleeker design. But, overall, if you won’t be demanding too much from it in terms of performance, the Chromebook Spin 312 is a good 2-in-1 Chromebook for those who prize portability and a sharp image.

Acer Chromebook Spin 312 review: Price and availability

• Starts from £329.99 (about $450 / AU$690)
• Various CPU, RAM, and storage options
• Middle of the market

The Chromebook Spin 312 starts from £329.99 (about $450 / AU$690). It can be configured with 64GB or 128GB of storage, 4GB or 8GB of RAM, and an Intel Core i3 or Intel N100 CPU.

This places the Chromebook Spin 312 somewhere in the middle of the market considering its spec. It’s considerably cheaper than the Samsung Galaxy Chromebook 2 360, which it bests in terms of performance, although its display isn’t quite as sharp or as vibrant, and lacks its premium design (although it isn’t too far behind in this regard).

However, the Chromebook Spin 312 is more expensive than the Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 3 Chromebook, which is one of the best budget Chromebooks in our view. This lacks the compactness of the Chromebook Spin 312 and the performance isn’t exactly impressive either, but it makes up for these deficiencies with its great build quality and enduring battery life.

• Value: 3.5 / 5

Acer Chromebook Spin 312 review: Specs

These are the specs of the particular Acer Chromebook Spin 312 I reviewed:

Price

Starting from £329.99 (about $450 / AU$690)

CPU

Intel N100 (4 threads, 3.4GHz)

Graphics

Integrated, Intel UHD Graphics

RAM

4GB LPDDR5

Screen

12.2-inch WUXGA (1920 x 1200) IPS LCD, 16:10, 60Hz touchscreen

Storage

64GB eMMC

Ports

2x USB-A, 1x USB-C, 1x HDMI, 1x 3.5mm audio

Wireless

Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.2

Camera

1280 x 720

Weight

2.84lbs (1.29kg)

Dimensions

11.4 x 8.1 x 0.8in (29 x 20.5 x 2cm)

Acer Chromebook Spin 312 review: Design

(Image credit: Future)

• Bulky for the size
• Solid lid hinge
• Only one USB-C port and no SD card slot

The Chromebook Spin 312 takes a somewhat utilitarian approach to design, with its sharp angles, large vents and lid hinges appearing quite conspicuous. However, it's still a compact device, and has enough flat sides to help impart some sleekness.

This is further aided by the steely grey colorway and look of the chassis materials, which have a subtle shine to them. What’s more, the quality of these materials seems high, feeling solid and fairly premium to the touch. This extends to the lightly textured keycaps and silky smooth touchpad.

The hinge mechanism is also reassuringly solid. There’s no wobble at any angle, yet it’s smooth and easy to open and adjust. This stability also helps when tenting the Chromebook Spin 312 to use it in touchscreen mode.

However, it can’t compete with the best tablets for usability. Despite its small 12-inch size, the Chromebook Spin 312 is a relatively thick and heavy slab, which can make it awkward to hold in the hand when folded back all the way.

The screen has a large bezel around it, which somewhat compromises the already limited real estate for the display. On a more positive note, it's made from Corning Gorilla Glass, so it should prove resistant to wear and tear when taking the Chromebook Spin 312 on your travels.

Port selection is reasonable for a Chromebook this small, although it’s a minor shame there’s only one USB-C port and SD card slot, as you’ll find two on many modern Chromebooks. Still, you do at least get two USB-A ports, and I also welcome the inclusion of a dedicated HDMI port and a 3.5mm audio jack.

• Design score: 4 / 5

Acer Chromebook Spin 312 review: Performance

(Image credit: Future)

• Capable of light work
• Sharp but reflective display
• Struggles with intensive tasks

Benchmarks

These are the results of our benchmarking tests for the Acer Chromebook Spin 312:

TechRadar Battery Life Test: 11 hours and 12 minutes
Jetstream2 Benchmark: 179.327
Kraken Benchmark: 1309.3ms
Speedometer 3.0: 9.52 (±0.52)

The Chromebook Spin 312 offers capable enough performance for everyday tasks, meeting the demands typically placed upon Chromebooks. Apps load fast and light productivity and general browsing are handled well. Despite its somewhat limited 4GB of RAM, it’s even capable of some degree of multitasking, coping well with multiple browser tabs open, for instance.

However, it can come a little unstuck when those tabs are running more complex activities, or when multiple apps are in play. The Chromebook Spin 312 can also generate a fair amount of heat underneath, which is bothersome when on your lap.

Gaming performance isn’t particularly impressive, either. It can handle some mobile titles, but you’ll likely have to play with modest graphics settings. When I played Asphalt Legends Unite, for instance, high settings caused stutters and considerable slow downs, rendering the game almost unplayable. However, it ran much better on lower settings, if not quite as smooth or as fast as some rivals can manage – and certainly the Chromebook Spin 312 isn’t a match for the best gaming laptops in this regard.

When it comes to video playback, the Chromebook Spin 312 can handle streaming content in 4K, although it’s not always the smoothest experience. The WUXGA display at least provides a sharp image: the 1920 x 1200 resolution might sound a little low compared to other laptops and some Chromebooks on the market today, but due to its small screen size, it looks sharper than you might imagine.

(Image credit: Future)

It’s also quite bright when displaying lighter shades. However, while colors are rendered well enough, they don’t appear quite as vibrant as those on the displays equipped in the best laptops or best MacBooks, looking slightly washed-out by comparison.

The screen is also quite reflective, which, combined with its somewhat lackluster backlighting, makes darker scenes hard to view at times. However, the effect isn’t too troublesome, and compared to many other Chromebooks, the Chromebook Spin 312 is still great for viewing content.

The touchscreen capability is impressive, too. It responds well to all sorts of swipes and gestures, making for smooth doodles and handwriting, even if it's a little grabby at times. It’s also a shame no stylus is included to unleash the full potential of its functionality.

Unfortunately, the touchpad is less responsive, and I experienced issues with its tracking: many times it felt as if it was either dragging or jumping ahead, lacking the smoothness I was expecting. As a result, I struggled to use it accurately, which can really hamper productivity.

By contrast, typing with the Chromebook Spin 312 is a largely pleasant experience. The keys are satisfyingly damped and are spread surprisingly wide for a Chromebook this small. The keycaps also feel nice under the finger tips thanks to their texture, although they lack grip, which is made worse by the lack of indentation as well. This made the keyboard feel less secure in use, but overall I still found it amenable for typing quickly on.

• Performance score: 3.5 / 5

Acer Chromebook Spin 312 review: Battery life

(Image credit: Future)

The battery life of the Chromebook Spin 312 is quite impressive. During our tests, where we ran a movie on a continuous loop, it managed to last over 11 hours. This makes it much better than the Samsung Galaxy Chromebook 2 360, which could only manage six and a half hours. It also beats the Acer Chromebook Spin 314 (2023), one of the best Chromebooks around in our view, which managed over 10 hours.

However, it can’t outlive the Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 3 Chromebook, which, when we tested it, endured for a remarkable 16 hours and 20 minutes. However, this is rather exceptional in the Chromebook world, and the Chromebook Spin 312 can still lay claim to having one of the best battery lives in the market.

• Battery life: 4.5 / 5

Should I buy the Acer Chromebook Spin 312?

Attributes

Notes

Rating

Price

The Chromebook Spin 312 sits somewhere in the middle of the market given its design and spec, being cheaper than some rivals but more expensive than others.

3.5 / 5

Design

It’s solidly made and small enough to make it portable, although it’s a little bulky for tablet-style use.

4 / 5

Performance

The Chromebook Spin 312 can handle basic tasking, while the display is pleasingly sharp, if not the most vibrant and a tad too reflective.

3.5 / 5

Battery life

It may not have the very best battery life of a Chromebook, but its 11-hour performance still places it in the upper echelons.

4.5 / 5

Total Score

If you’re looking for a Chromebook you can use with touch inputs and doesn’t take up much space, you shouldn’t be disappointed with the Chromebook Spin 312 – so long as you don’t demand too much from it.

4 / 5

Buy it if...

You want something compact
The 12-inch size makes the Chromebook Spin 312 easy to travel with, and yet it doesn't feel compromised when typing or getting work done.

You want a 2-in-1 device
The 360-degree rotating touchscreen makes the Chromebook Spin 312 versatile, although it’s perhaps not best suited for full-on tablet-style use.

Don't buy it if...

You want the fastest Chromebook
Although it's surprisingly capable, those with more demanding workloads should seek more powerful models.

You want the sveltest device
Despite its small size, the Chromebook Spin 312 is fairly bulky and weighty, which impairs its tablet-style credentials.

Acer Chromebook Spin 312 review: Also consider

Acer Chromebook Spin 312

Samsung Galaxy Chromebook 2 360

Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 3 Chromebook

Price

Starting from £329.99 (about $450 / AU$690)

$429.99 / £419 / AU$707

$339 / £299 / AU$499

CPU

Intel N100 (4 threads, 3.4GHz)

Intel Celeron N4500 1.10GHz (2 threads, 2.80GHz)

1.1GHz Intel Celeron N4020 (dual-core, 4MB cache, up to 2.8GHz Burst)

Graphics

Integrated, Intel UHD Graphics

Integrated, Intel UHD Graphics

Intel UHD Graphics 600

RAM

4GB LPDDR5

4GB LPDDR4x

4GB DDR4

Screen

12.2-inch WUXGA (1920 x 1200) IPS LCD, 16:10, 60Hz touchscreen

12.4-inch WQXGA LED Display (2560 x 1600), touchscreen

11-inch IPS touchscreen, 1,366 x 768 pixels

Storage

64GB eMMC

64GB eMMC

64GB eMMC

Ports

2x USB-A, 1x USB-C, 1x HDMI, 1x 3.5mm audio

1x USB-A, 2x USB-C, 1x microSD, 1x 3.5mm audio

2x USB-C with charging, 2x USB-A 3.1 Gen1, microSD

Wireless

Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.2

Wi-Fi 6, LTE (Option), Bluetooth v5.1

802.11AC (2 x 2) WiFi, Bluetooth® 4.2

Camera

1280 x 720

720p / 8MP

720p

Weight

2.84lbs (1.29kg)

2.82lbs (1.28kg)

2.64lbs (1.2kg)

Dimensions

11.4 x 8.1 x 0.8in (29 x 20.5 x 2cm)

11.3 x 8.1 x 0.7 inches (28.8 x 20.7 x 1.7cm)

0.7 x 11.41 x 8.18 inches (17.8 x 290 x 207.8mm)

Here are some alternatives if the Acer Chromebook Spin 312 doesn't sound right for your needs:

Samsung Galaxy Chromebook 2 360
The Galaxy Chromebook 2 360 is about the same size as the Chromebook Spin 312, but it has a thinner and lighter construction, as well as a more upmarket design, which is one of the best in class. The display is even sharper and more vibrant, too. It’s a shame that its performance fails to live up to its looks, but if you only have very light workloads, it’ll make a pleasant companion. Read our full Samsung Galaxy Chromebook 2 360 review.

Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 3 Chromebook
The IdeaPad Flex 3 Chromebook boasts great build quality and excellent battery life. However, it’s let down by unremarkable performance and uninspiring looks. Still, it’s powerful enough for light productivity and schoolwork, hence its inclusion on our best Chromebook guide. Read our full Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 3 Chromebook review.

How I tested the Acer Chromebook Spin 312

• Tested for two days
• Used for work and for entertainment
• Chromebook reviewing experience

I tested the Chromebook Spin 312 for a couple of days, during which time I used it working, gaming, and general browsing.

I used word processing and spreadsheet applications, streamed 4K content on YouTube, and played games such as Asphalt Legends Unite. I also connected various peripherals via Bluetooth.

I have been using Chromebooks for a while, and have reviewed a number of them as well, ranging in price, form factor, and spec. I have also reviewed plenty of Windows laptops.

• First reviewed: June 2025
• Read more about how we test

Acer Chromebook Plus 516: Two-minute review

The Acer Chromebook Plus 516 is a large device with a reasonably strong spec, making it ideal for various productivity and entertainment needs. It might not look terribly auspicious, and the color is a little dour, but it's surprisingly thin for a Chromebook this size, which helps to make it more sleek.

It’s also a well-made machine, with materials that feel durable yet light. What’s more, the lid hinges allow for easy opening and offer stability at any angle all the way up to 170 degrees.

It also has one of the best Chromebook keyboards in terms of layout, with plenty of keys included, such as a number pad, without compromising spacing. This makes typing easy, and the snappy nature of the individual keys makes them satisfying, too.

The touchpad is equally capable, providing responsive inputs and plenty of accuracy, which, combined with its large size, makes for easy navigation. It also manages to keep out of the way while typing.

(Image credit: Future)

Port selection on the Chromebook Plus 516 is quite good, and I was pleased to see the inclusion of two USB-C ports. However, it’s a minor shame both are on the same side, which may limit your options when plugging into an outlet. Still, the two USB-A ports, HDMI port and audio jack are all welcome additions.

In terms of performance, the Chromebook Plus 516 handles most tasks well. It loads apps quickly and multitasks very well. Even mobile gaming on high settings is viable. It also takes Ultra HD content in its stride, streaming it without a hitch for the most part. Viewing such content is made all the more enjoyable thanks to that large, crisp, and vibrant display, which also does an admirable job of keeping reflections at bay.

Unfortunately, the battery life of the Chromebook Plus 516 isn’t particularly impressive relative to its rivals. During our movie playback test, it failed to break past eight hours, a threshold many modern Chromebooks can exceed.

With a starting price of £399.99 (about $540 / AU$830), the Chromebook Plus 516 sits somewhere in the middle of the market. However, it's good value when you consider its performance, display, and productivity credentials.

Acer Chromebook Plus 516 review: Price and availability

• Starts from £399.99 (about $540 / AU$830)
• Available from August in the UK
• Mid-market pricing

The Chromebook Plus 516 starts from £399.99 (about $540 / AU$830) and is available in the UK from August in one colorway. Multiple storage, CPU, RAM and graphics options are configurable. A backlit keyboard can also be specified, as can a touch screen.

It’s about the same price as the equally capable but slightly smaller Acer Chromebook Plus 514. Like that model, the 516 sits somewhere in the middle of the market, but perhaps represents slightly better value owing to the larger screen size and extra keys.

However, if you still want great performance but at a lower price, the older Acer Chromebook Plus 515 remains a great pick, and its 15.6-inch measurement is still big enough to please those who prefer large displays; there’s a reason we think it’s one of the best student Chromebooks, after all.

If you’re after something cheaper still, we think the Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 3 Chromebook is the best student laptop for those on a budget. Its performance is no match for the mightier Chromebook Plus 516, and it’s also much smaller, but it has the advantage of being a 2-in-1 device, thanks to its 360-degree rotation and touchscreen.

• Value: 3.5 / 5

Acer Chromebook Plus 516 review: Specs

These specs pertain to my review unit of the Acer Chromebook Plus 516:

Price

£399.99 (about $540 / AU$830)

CPU

Intel Core 3 100U (8 threads, 4.7GHz)

Graphics

Integrated, Intel UHD Graphics

RAM

8GB LPDDR5

Screen

16-inch WUXGA (1920 x 1200) IPS, 16:10

Storage

128GB UFS

Ports

2x USB-A, 2x USB-C, 1x HDMI, 1x 3.5mm audio

Wireless

Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.3

Camera

HD 1080p

Weight

3.75lbs (1.7kg)

Dimensions

14.1 x 10 x 0.8 inches (359 x 253 x 19mm)

Acer Chromebook Plus 516 review: Design

(Image credit: Future)

• Smart and well made
• Plenty of keys
• Both USB-C ports on same side

The Chromebook Plus 516 adopts the fairly typical Acer aesthetic, with a sleek but understated appearance. There’s nothing particularly spectacular about its looks, but it’s at least free from too many fussy details.

Despite its large size, it’s pleasingly thin and not quite as heavy as you’d expect it to be. It’s no match for smaller Chromebooks in terms of portability, but all sides are quite flat and smooth, which helps when sliding it into your bag.

The build quality is on par with the best Chromebooks. Certain materials look more premium than others, but all feel solid and durable. The keycaps are perhaps the least impressive visually, but they’re tightly fitted.

The hinge mechanism is similarly well-engineered. The lid is easy to open and move into any position, and its maximum recline angle of 170 degrees makes it versatile for various setups. What’s more, it remains stable in any position; there’s next to no wobble, which is all the more impressive given its thinness and lightness.

The keyboard features numerous shortcut keys on the F row, all of which are quite useful. Highlights include one for taking screenshots, one for dictation, and one for opening a menu containing various accessibility functions.

Being a Chromebook Plus, you also get a Quick Insert key, used for accessing files, opening recent documents or creating new ones, inserting links, using AI tools, and other productivity-based functions.

The keyboard even includes a navigation cluster and number pad, both of which I welcome. More impressively, these don’t compromise the layout spacing, thanks to the width of the device itself. The touchpad also manages to not get in the way while typing, despite its relatively large size.

I was pleased to see the Chromebook Plus 516 features two USB-C ports, although unfortunately they’re both the same side, which somewhat limits versatility when plugging into an outlet. Still, it’s nice to have more than one, and the further ports – two USB-A ports, an HDMI port, and a 3.5mm headset jack – are all welcome additions. There’s no SD card slot, though, which might be a problem for some users.

• Design score: 4 / 5

Acer Chromebook Plus 516 review: Performance

(Image credit: Future)

• Fast and capable multitasker
• Can handle light gaming
• Sharp display

Benchmarks

These are the results of our benchmarking tests for the Acer Chromebook Plus 516:

TechRadar Battery Life Test: 7 hours and 35 minutes
Jetstream2 Benchmark: 295.772
Kraken Benchmark: 398.5ms
Speedometer 3.0: 18.8 (±1.0)

The Chromebook Plus 516 is quite a capable performer. Creating and editing documents and spreadsheets is no problem for it, while switching between apps and multiple tabs is taken in its stride.

Gaming performance is also admirable. I managed to play Asphalt Legends Unite on high graphics settings without issue, running smoothly with little stutter. This was especially impressive given that the game recommended I play on lower settings based on the specs, but you’ll still want one of the best gaming laptops if you plan on playing more intensive games.

It can stream ultra HD content with relative ease as well. During my testing, I encountered little in the way of buffering or stuttering, making for seamless viewing in the main.

(Image credit: Future)

The experience is made even better thanks to the surprisingly vibrant display, which also avoids the washed-out appearance that afflicts some Chromebooks. Reflections do reveal themselves somewhat in darker scenes and unfavorable lighting conditions, but generally they’re kept at bay quite well.

Moreover, the 1920 x 1200 resolution is suitably sharp for its large size, which makes the UI very clear, while the thin bezels ensure that the most is made of the allotted real estate.

Typing on the Chromebook Plus 516 is also a pleasure. Despite the inauspicious looking keys, they perform well, with their light actuation and just enough dampening to make them tactile. Despite the inclusion of a number pad and other extra keys, I didn’t find the layout cramped, which made for an accurate and comfortable typing experience.

The trackpad is brilliantly smooth and very precise, tracking perfectly with my finger movements and gestures. As with the keys, it only requires a light touch, which makes it easy to use.

• Performance score: 4.5 / 5

Acer Chromebook Plus 516 review: Battery life

(Image credit: Future)

The Chromebook Plus 516 doesn't have a terribly impressive battery life, posting a below-average score during our test. We ran a movie on a continuous loop, and it gave up the ghost after seven hours and 35 minutes.

The Acer Chromebook Plus 514 we tested fared better, managing to last almost an hour longer. The much smaller Chromebook Spin 312 also eclipsed it, running all the way past 11 hours before total depletion.

However, the Chromebook Plus 516 still did better than the older Chromebook Plus 515, which only managed five hours. However, if you’re after a device that can really go all day, the Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 3 Chromebook is perhaps your best choice, as this lasted over 16 hours in our movie playback test.

• Battery life: 2.5 / 5

Should I buy the Acer Chromebook Plus 516?

Attributes

Notes

Rating

Price

The Chromebook Plus 516 has a price you might expect for a Chromebook Plus, although its size and keyboard impart extra value.

3.5 / 5

Design

The Chromebook Plus 516 is pleasingly thin for such a large device, and the build quality is respectable. The keyboard is great for productivity, too.

4 / 5

Performance

The Chromebook Plus 516 can handle all sorts of tasks, including light gaming, while the sharp and vibrant display is great for viewing Ultra HD content.

4.5 / 5

Battery life

The Chromebook Plus 516 is far from the best in class when it comes to battery life, with many others capable of outliving it.

2.5 / 5

Total Score

The Chromebook Plus 516 is a great performer with a vibrant display and a useful keyboard. If you’re after a large Chromebook for work and play, it fits the bill quite well – so long as you don’t plan on using it unplugged all day long.

4 / 5

Buy it if...

You want a large display
At 16 inches, the Chromebook Plus 516 is one of the larger Chromebooks on the market, and the resolution is sharp enough to match.

You want fast performance
The Chromebook Plus 516 can handle most productivity tasks and even light gaming, thanks to its relatively strong spec.

Don't buy it if...

You want a convertible device
The Chromebook Plus 516 isn’t a 2-in-1 device, so it can’t be used like the best tablets.

You want the best battery life
Seven and a half hours is all you’ll get with continuous movie playback, which ranks in the lower half of the Chromebook league.

Acer Chromebook Plus 516 review: Also consider

Acer Chromebook Plus 516

Acer Chromebook Plus 514

Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 3 Chromebook

Price

Starts from £399.99 (about $540 / AU$830)

$399 / £399 (about AU$560)

$399.99 / £399.99 (around AU$633)

CPU

Intel Core 3 100U (8 threads, 4.7GHz)

Intel Core 3 100U (8 threads, 4.7GHz)

1.1GHz Intel Celeron N4020 (dual-core, 4MB cache, up to 2.8GHz Burst)

Graphics

Integrated, Intel UHD Graphics

Integrated, Intel UHD Graphics

 Intel UHD Graphics 600

RAM

8GB LPDDR5

8GB LPDDR5

4GB DDR4

Screen

16-inch WUXGA (1920 x 1200) IPS, 16:10

14-inch WUXGA (1920 x 1200) IPS, 16:10

11-inch IPS touchscreen, 1,366 x 768

Storage

128GB UFS

128GB UFS

64GB eMMC

Ports

2x USB-A, 2x USB-C, 1x HDMI, 1x 3.5mm audio

2x USB-A, 2x USB-C, 1x HDMI, 1x 3.5mm audio

2x USB-C with charging, 2x USB-A, microSD

Wireless

Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.3

Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth

Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 4.2

Camera

HD 1080p

HD 1080p

720p

Weight

3.75lbs (1.7kg)

3.15lbs (1.43kg)

2.64lbs (1.2kg)

Dimensions

14.1 x 10 x 0.8 inches (359 x 253 x 19mm)

12.9 x 8.9 x 0.8 inches (32.7 x 22.5 x 2cm)

0.7 x 11.41 x 8.18 inches (17.8 x 290 x 207.8mm)

Here are some alternatives to the Chromebook Plus 516:

Acer Chromebook Plus 514
An almost-equally large Chromebook Plus, the 514 boasts a similar performance and spec, although I would say the 516 has a slightly better display quality. The 514 also lacks the extra keys of the 516, which might deter those interested in extracting the maximum productivity from their machine. Read our Acer Chromebook Plus 514 review.

Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 3 Chromebook
If you want something smaller, cheaper, and more versatile, look no further than the Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 3 Chromebook. It’s convertible, so you can use it like a tablet, and it has an excellent battery life to boot. However, it’s not the quickest performer, but it's still sufficient, which is why it makes the best student laptop for those on a budget in our view. Read our Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 3 Chromebook review.

How I tested the Acer Chromebook Plus 516

• Tested for two days
• Used for a variety of tasks
• Abundant Chromebook reviewing experience

I tested the Chromebook Plus 516 for a few days, during which time I used it for a variety of tasks, including productivity, gaming, and browsing.

I edited spreadsheets and documents, used multiple tabs when browsing in Chrome, and streamed 4K content. I also played Asphalt Legends Unite, and connected various peripherals via Bluetooth.

I have used various Chromebooks and other laptop devices for decades, and have reviewed a number of them too (including other Acer models), varying in their price points, form factors, and performance.

• First reviewed: June 2025
• Read more about how we test

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When it comes to backups, IT leaders often only focus on data recovery, but in today’s cyber threat landscape, simply having a backup isn’t enough. It is also critical to ensure that backups go along with proactive planning, with protection strategies to ensure the organization can quickly respond to issues and restore data in the event of an incident.

Ransomware attacks, insider threats, and platform over-utilization can cripple IT environments before a backup is even needed. Often, the damage is already done by the time data loss or system failures are detected.

That’s why modern enterprises need more than just data backup. They need cyber-resilient storage, meaning their data security is proactive and self-defending, thanks to AI analysis taking place in the background.

AI-powered backup & storage: The new standard for cyber-resilience

A backup and storage solution that works in conjunction with AI doesn’t just protect data - it predicts, alerts, and responds to threats before they escalate. Instead of simply reacting after an attack or failure, an AI-powered system can detect anomalies in real time and spot suspicious activity before ransomware encrypts files.

Additionally, it lets you monitor platform utilization, preventing performance slowdowns due to storage overuse, high user activity, or degraded hardware. You get proactive security alerts, identifying vulnerabilities (such as CVEs, misconfigurations and unauthorized access attempts) before they are exploited.

And lastly, it ensures compliance and audit readiness, tracking backup integrity, storage trends, and policy violations with automated reporting.

The end result is faster threat response, minimized downtime, and a smarter, more resilient backup strategy.

Anomaly detection: Catching threats before they strike

Ransomware doesn’t strike instantly, but instead, it moves silently, encrypting files over time. In these situations, traditional backup solutions only help after an attack.

However, with AI-powered anomaly detection, you can monitor for unusual storage access patterns or anomalous actions (such as the sudden encryption of multiple files). You can detect repeated, unauthorized or irregular access attempts before data exfiltration occurs.

So following this new intelligence, you can alert IT teams to irregular user behaviors that indicate insider threats. With AI-powered alerting, you can stop ransomware before it spreads, ensuring backup systems aren’t just recovery tools, but active defense layers.

How intelligent storage utilization prevents performance bottlenecks

Data storage isn’t infinite, yet many enterprises don’t have any real-time visibility into utilization issues. AI-driven monitoring can detect a number of critical performance bottlenecks. This includes when storage is nearing capacity before it impacts applications.

It highlights performance tiers that slow critical workloads. And it will notify you of sudden spikes in storage consumption that might indicate runaway processes or security breaches.

With storage analytics, IT teams can optimize resources proactively, avoiding downtime caused by storage exhaustion or performance degradation.

Security alerting: closing the gap on vulnerabilities

Backup data is a prime target for attackers - yet many storage environments lack real-time security intelligence. AI-powered storage protection can identify misconfigurations that expose backup data to unauthorized access, as well as alerting about known security vulnerabilities (CVEs) before they can be exploited. It will also flag suspicious user behavior, such as unusual restore requests or mass deletions.

AI-powered security alerting closes gaps in backup security, ensuring storage remains resilient against both external and internal threats.

Automated compliance & policy enforcement

Data compliance isn’t just about having backups - it’s about ensuring they meet retention, encryption, and audit requirements. AI-driven policy enforcement ensures that data retention policies align with GDPR, HIPAA, and industry regulations.

Additionally, it ensures backup integrity is continuously verified to prevent silent corruption, and that automated reporting can provide auditors with real-time insights into storage security and compliance.

It means enterprises can avoid costly fines and compliance violations by ensuring their backups meet regulatory mandates without manual intervention.

Cyber-resilience in action: AI and backup mean a smarter future

A truly cyber-resilient storage solution doesn’t just store data - it monitors, protects, and alerts IT teams to potential issues before they become disasters.

With AI-powered backup and storage intelligence, enterprises can detect ransomware before encryption spreads. It helps them optimize storage performance before over utilization slows systems. It means they can identify security risks before backups are compromised, as well as compliance reporting before auditors come knocking.

This is the future of cyber-resilient storage—and it’s the backup strategy that enterprises need to prioritize. AI-powered cyber-resilience is a way to level up, not merely back up your data storage.

While traditional backup is reactive, AI-powered backup is proactive. Enterprises need storage that doesn’t just save data but instead, defends it. The best backup is the one that stops disasters before they happen. AI-powered analytics means your backup strategy is built for resilience rather than just recovery.

We list the best malware removal .

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

We are living through one of the most significant shifts in retail point-of-sale (POS) technology since the introduction of the chip-and-PIN terminal.

After years of relying on rubber-buttoned, specialist PEDs (PIN Entry Devices) from manufacturers like Ingenico and Verifone, the retail sector is now embracing generic Android devices that accept payments using downloadable software.

This shift is more than a change in hardware—it’s a full-blown operating system revolution. But as Android becomes increasingly embedded in our in-store shopping experiences, a bigger question looms: are we handing over control of this multi-billion-dollar ecosystem to a single platform? Is Android now the new kingmaker in retail POS?

From Proprietary Hardware to Programmable Platforms

Until recently, the POS hardware market was tightly controlled. Devices ran customized versions of Linux, and software applications were typically monolithic, expensive to build, and hard to update. Developing or modifying software on these systems required specialist engineering skills, long certification cycles, and intimate knowledge of closed systems.

Innovation under this model was stifled. Only the boldest players attempted to build their own apps for PEDs—and many failed. As a result, the pace of progress in in-store payment gateways lagged behind online and mobile commerce, where new features and updates could be deployed instantly.

That legacy model is now crumbling. Android, originally developed for smartphones, is increasingly used to power POS devices that are more flexible, easier to develop for, and significantly cheaper to deploy. This has paved the way for a new era of programmable retail terminals that run on open platforms and offer the same agility as app-based ecosystems.

The Rise of Android POS

Over the past 18 months, we’ve seen a surge in software-only payment services from major fintech players. Stripe introduced its Stripe Reader S700, which not only processes payments but also runs custom business apps, giving merchants the ability to fully customize the checkout experience. Revolut has also launched its own Android-based retail POS terminal designed for high-speed environments.

This shift is being driven by Android’s flexibility. The OS runs on everything from ruggedized tablets used in queue-busting or pay-at-table scenarios to consumer-grade phones used by mobile merchants. Android has already displaced Windows-based till systems in many cafes, bars, and restaurants due to its lower cost and broader developer base.

This transformation isn’t limited to startups or small merchants. Large-scale retailers and payment providers are building their own custom apps using Android, allowing them to tailor checkout flows to their exact operational needs. At the same time, the smallest merchants—like plumbers or stallholders—can now download a basic Android app to accept payments on their personal phones, with no extra hardware required.

Projections suggest this is only the beginning. The global Android POS market was valued at $7 billion in 2024 and is forecast to grow at a CAGR of 29.4%, reaching over $71 billion by 2033. The low licensing costs, massive developer pool, and ability to create customized hardware configurations all make Android the preferred choice over Apple or Windows alternatives in the retail world.

Specialist SaaS providers like Toast are already bundling Android devices with vertical-specific software tailored to restaurants, and other niche segments. As Android continues to expand its footprint, its influence on the hardware ecosystem is undeniable.

But Who Really Holds the Power?

Despite Android’s rapid ascent, the notion that it is becoming the “kingmaker” in POS is flawed. In reality, merchants aren’t choosing operating systems—they’re choosing the SaaS platforms that best meet their business needs. These platforms, not the OS, will ultimately determine which hardware gets deployed, how app stores are curated, and how secure the payment environment is.

Android simply enables more flexibility. It gives SaaS providers the tools to innovate—whether by enabling tap-to-pay on a handheld device or deploying self-checkout kiosks in fast food restaurants. The OS is the enabler, but the strategic control lies with the platform operators.

What we are witnessing is the fragmentation of the POS landscape into a marketplace of thousands of SaaS providers, each making their own decisions about hardware, app design, and consumer experience. These platforms vary not just by country or language, but by sector. A fast-fashion retailer and a sports store may both sell clothes, but the software they use to manage inventory, payments, and loyalty programs can be vastly different.

This market diversity means that no single OS—Android included—can dictate how the retail world functions. The analogy to Nokia’s decline is striking. Just as Android and Apple reshaped the smartphone industry by empowering app developers and creating open ecosystems, they are now unlocking similar creativity and value in physical retail.

What follows could be a renaissance in the in-store experience. With open systems and software-based interfaces, retailers are no longer tied to generic, inflexible terminals. They can experiment, personalize, and streamline—making checkout faster, more intuitive, and more aligned to their brand.

Android Is the Platform, Not the Power

Android is clearly becoming the operating system of choice for the next generation of POS devices. Its versatility, affordability, and openness make it a natural successor to the locked-down Linux boxes of the past. But that doesn’t mean Android is the new kingmaker.

The real power will lie with the SaaS platforms that orchestrate the entire merchant experience—from inventory and customer engagement to payments and reporting. These platforms are the new center of gravity in retail, and they will continue to shape how we shop in-store.

So yes, Android may well be the plumbing of the new POS world—but it’s the platforms that will design the taps.

We list the best POS system for restaurants and bars. We've also listed the best pizza restaurant POS system.

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

Many companies, including some of the UK’s largest banks, major retailers, and government departments, are still grappling with the fallout from legacy software. Compatibility issues and security risks tied to aging platforms remain widespread. This familiar pattern means migration projects are often postponed until the last minute, increasing the risk of costly disruptions and avoidable security vulnerabilities.

Microsoft’s decision to end support for Microsoft Teams Classic on 1st July is more than just a routine update deadline; it represents a critical juncture for enterprise IT teams. For many organizations, this is a firm cutoff with serious operational and security implications.

Stopgap measures bring their own challenges

The impact of these delays is already evident. Many enterprises are paying for Extended Security Updates (ESUs) to buy extra time, while others are accelerating hardware refresh cycles, replacing laptops and desktops earlier than planned just to keep pace. Yet these stopgap measures bring their own challenges. Rushed rollouts often trigger user frustration, operational hiccups, and technical setbacks, complicating what should be a straightforward upgrade.

Security concerns are particularly acute. Recent breaches at major UK retailers such as Marks & Spencer and the Co-op were directly linked to weaknesses in legacy systems. These incidents underline a stark reality that running unsupported software is a liability that can have serious consequences for both security and reputation.

Windows 10 complications

The October deadline for Windows 10 support compounds the challenge. While Microsoft will continue offering paid ESUs for Windows 10, these only provide a temporary patch rather than a long-term solution. Organizations relying on extended support risk developing a false sense of security. Without a full platform upgrade, vulnerabilities pile up, documentation becomes obsolete, and the loss of staff familiar with legacy systems makes future migrations more complex and expensive.

For IT teams facing the double challenge of migrating both Teams and Windows 10 within months, the situation is stressful. Budgets are tight, resources limited, and the window to complete a compliant and smooth transition is rapidly closing.

Often, delaying migration comes down to competing priorities, constrained budgets, and a lack of clear understanding about how legacy systems interact with current business processes. Legacy environments are typically poorly documented, and over time, institutional knowledge is lost as experienced staff leave. This makes migration projects time-consuming and costly, not only in terms of software upgrades but also in mapping the impact on security and compliance.

Postponing these migrations carries hidden costs too. Every month that passes increases the risk of security breaches, operational failures, and regulatory penalties. Delaying upgrades becomes an increasingly risky gamble.

Successfully navigating this challenge

Successfully navigating this challenge demands urgent action and careful planning. One lesson from past migrations is clear in that scheduling rollouts thoughtfully and having robust rollback alternatives in place are crucial to minimize disruption. The old adage “plan for success but prepare for failure” rings especially true here. Working closely with users throughout the process helps manage expectations and surface issues early on.

Another key priority is capturing institutional knowledge before critical staff move on. Documenting legacy configurations, workflows, and vendor agreements is vital to maintain continuity and enable effective troubleshooting during migration. Testing compatibility thoroughly in controlled environments is also crucial to spot potential problems before they affect users. Planning phased rollouts with clear fallback procedures helps manage risk and keeps disruptions to a minimum.

At the same time, clear communication and user training can’t be overlooked. Engaging with end users early reduces resistance and confusion, helping teams adapt smoothly to the new platform without unnecessary setbacks.

End of support

The end of Teams Classic support should serve as a clear warning that last-minute fixes and reliance on extended support aren’t sustainable. In an era where digital transformation and cyber threats are accelerating, organizations need to take control of their technology lifecycles. Early, comprehensive planning combined with cross-team collaboration is the only way to ensure timely migration while maintaining security and operational stability.

Those organizations that act now will not only meet critical deadlines but will also reduce risks and build resilience for the future. For those that continue to delay, the risks of costly disruptions, breaches, and compliance failures will only grow.

With time running out on both Teams Classic and Windows 10 support, the path forward requires decisive, well-coordinated action to safeguard security and prepare organizations for the challenges ahead.

We've compiled a list of the best patch management 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

President Trump said Friday that he was suspending trade talks with Canada over its plans to continue with its tax on technology firms, which he called "a direct and blatant attack on our country."

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Here are the answers for The New York Times Mini Crossword for June 30.

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