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Opera has fixed a worrying security vulnerability, which could have allowed threat actors to access permissive APIs in the browser, and thus take over accounts, tweak browser settings, and even take screenshots.

Cybersecurity researchers GuardioLabs disclosed their findings, and dubbed the vulnerability “CrossBarking”.

The flaw revolves around the fact that multiple Opera-owned, publicly accessible subdomains, have privileged access to private APIs embedded within the browser. These domains support different features of the browser, such as the Pinboard, Opera Wallet, and others. By abusing browser extensions, crooks could inject malicious JavaScript into these domains, and thus gain access to the APIs.

Malicious extensions

"The content script does have access to the DOM (Document Object Model)," the researchers explained in a blog post. "This includes the ability to dynamically change it, specifically by adding new elements."

Access to the APIs then allow crooks to screenshot open tabs, pull session cookies to access different accounts, and modify the browser’s DNS-over-HTTPS settings to resolve domains through malicious DNS servers. This, the researchers further explain, could lead to victims opening fake bank sites and losing banking credentials.

To demonstrate that the vulnerability works, GuardioLabs published a small browser extension to the Google Chrome Web Store. From there, an Opera browser user picks it up and compromises their device. The silver lining here is that the extension requires permission to run JavaScript on any web page, and particularly those that have access to private APIs.

Luckily, Opera has already addressed the issue and fixed the flaw in version 113.0.5230.132, so make sure to update your browser to avoid any unnecessary risk.

Being omnipresent, browsers are an extremely popular target for cybercriminals. The most popular products, such as Chrome, Firefox, Sarafi, Opera, or Edge, are generally considered safe, but addons are a different story, since many are developed by third parties and don’t necessarily have the same approach to cybersecurity as the browser makers themselves.

Via The Hacker News

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As of 2024, macOS powers over 100 million active devices worldwide, making it a popular choice for both personal and professional use. However, despite its user-friendly interface, Mac users still find themselves scratching their heads when it comes to connecting a printer. The process can seem like a hassle, especially with the variety of printer brands and connection methods available.

But fear not! Whether you're setting up a home office or trying to print that important document at work, this comprehensive guide will demystify the process of adding a printer to your Mac. I'll explore various methods, from simple USB connections to wireless setups, and even tackle some common troubleshooting issues.

By the end of this article, you'll be equipped with all the knowledge you need to start printing from your Mac with confidence. So, let's dive in and unlock the full potential of your Mac's printing capabilities!

We’ve also listed the best printers for Mac.

Adding a wired printer to your Mac

For many users, a wired USB printer is still the go-to choice for its simplicity and reliability. The good news is that macOS makes it incredibly easy to set up these printers. In most cases, it's as simple as plug-and-play, but let's walk through the process to ensure you don't miss any important steps.

Here's how to add a USB printer to your Mac:

1. Make sure your printer software is up to date. Check with your printer's manufacturer to see if any updates are available for your printer model.
2. Prepare your printer. Use the instructions that came with your printer to unpack it, install ink or toner, and add paper. Turn on the printer and make sure it's not displaying any errors.
3. Connect your printer to your Mac using a USB cable. If you see a message prompting you to download new software, make sure to download and install it.
4. Your Mac should automatically detect the new printer and add it to your list of available printers. To confirm, open System Settings (or System Preferences on older macOS versions) and click on "Printers & Scanners."
5. You should see your new printer listed on the left side of the window. If you don't, click the "+" button at the bottom of the list to add it manually.
6. Select your printer from the list that appears and click "Add."
7. Your printer is now ready to use! You can select it from the "Printer" menu when you're ready to print a document.

In my experience, this process usually goes smoothly, but if you encounter any issues, don't worry. We'll cover some troubleshooting tips later in this article.

Adding a wireless printer to your Mac

Wireless printing offers the convenience of printing from anywhere in your home or office without the need for cables. Most modern printers come with Wi-Fi capabilities, and many are compatible with Apple's AirPrint technology, making the setup process a breeze.

Here's how to add a wireless printer to your Mac:

1. Ensure your printer is connected to the same Wi-Fi network as your Mac. Consult your printer's manual for instructions on connecting it to Wi-Fi if you haven't already done so.
2. On your Mac, click on the Apple menu and select "System Settings" (or "System Preferences" on older macOS versions).
3. Click on "Printers & Scanners" in the sidebar.
4. Click the "+" button at the bottom of the printer list on the left side of the window.
5. A new window will appear showing a list of available printers on your network. Select your printer from this list.
6. If your printer supports AirPrint, macOS will automatically use AirPrint to connect to the printer. If not, your Mac will download and install the appropriate driver software.
7. Click "Add" to finish adding the printer.

If your printer doesn't appear in the list, you may need to add it manually using its IP address. To do this, click on the "IP" icon in the Add Printer window, enter your printer's IP address, and follow the prompts to add it.

I've found that wireless printing can be a real game-changer, especially in a busy household or office. Being able to print from my Mac without having to physically connect to the printer has saved me countless trips across the room!

Troubleshooting printer connection issues

Even with macOS's user-friendly interface, you might encounter some hiccups when trying to add a printer. Don't worry, though – most issues have simple solutions. Here are some common problems and how to solve them:

1. Printer not showing up in the list:

• Make sure your printer is turned on and connected to the same network as your Mac.
• Try restarting both your printer and your Mac.
• Check if your printer's software is up to date.

2. Error messages when trying to add the printer:

• Double-check that you've selected the correct printer model if adding manually.
• Ensure you have the latest version of macOS installed.
• Try resetting the printing system (but be aware this will remove all your printers and scan queues).

3. Printer added but not printing:

• Check the printer queue by clicking on the printer in System Settings > Printers & Scanners and selecting "Open Print Queue."
• Make sure the printer isn't paused or offline.
• Try printing from another application to see if the issue is app-specific.

Remember, if you're still having trouble, it's always a good idea to check the printer manufacturer's website for specific troubleshooting guides or to contact their support team.

Productivity tips for using a printer on your Mac

Now that you've successfully added your printer, let's explore some tips to help you get the most out of your Mac printing experience. These tricks can save you time and make your printing tasks more efficient.

Here are some of my favorite productivity hacks:

1. Create a printer pool: If you have multiple printers, you can create a printer pool. This allows you to send a print job to the pool, and it will be printed on the first available printer. To set this up, select multiple printers in System Settings > Printers & Scanners, then click "Create Printer Pool."
2. Print from the Dock: You can add a printer icon to your Dock for quick access. Just drag the printer from the Printers & Scanners list to your Dock. Now you can print files by dragging them onto the printer icon in the Dock.
3. Use keyboard shortcuts: Command + P opens the print dialog in most applications. You can also use Command + Shift + 3 to capture and save a screenshot of your entire screen, which you can then print.
4. Set up default print settings: To save time, set up your preferred print settings (like double-sided printing or black and white) as the default for each printer you use regularly.
5. Use the Preview app for quick prints: The Preview app is great for quick prints of images and PDFs. You can even make basic edits before printing.

These tips have significantly streamlined my printing workflow on my Mac. Experiment with them and see which ones work best for you. Remember, the key to productivity is finding the methods that suit your specific needs and work style.

We've featured the best inkjet printers.

Being able to print documents, photos, and web pages without being tethered to a cable has become more important than ever. But with so many different printer brands and models on the market, figuring out the process for your exact printer model can sometimes feel like a daunting task.

Today, I'll unpack the various methods available for connecting your printer to WiFi, covering everything from WPS technology to manufacturer-specific apps and even solutions for printers without wireless capabilities. By the end of this article, you'll be equipped with all the knowledge you need to start printing wirelessly with confidence.

We’ve also covered the best home printers.

Option 1: Using WPS (WiFi Protected Setup)

WPS is a network security standard that makes it easy to connect WiFi-enabled devices to a router without entering long passwords. It's the simplest and most straightforward method for connecting your printer to WiFi, provided both your printer and router support this feature.

To use WPS, you'll need a printer and a router that both support WPS. Most modern wireless printers and routers from major manufacturers support WPS, but it's always a good idea to check your devices' specifications or contact the manufacturer to confirm compatibility.

Here's how to connect using WPS:

1. Make sure your printer is turned on and within range of your WiFi router.
2. Locate the WPS button on your router. It's usually labeled with the WPS logo or the letters "WPS".
3. Press and hold the WPS button on your router for a few seconds until the WPS light starts flashing.
4. Within two minutes, press the WPS button on your printer. On some printers, you may need to navigate to the WiFi settings in the printer's menu and select the WPS option.
5. Wait for the connection to be established. This usually takes less than a minute.
6. Once connected, your printer's WiFi light should stop blinking and remain solid.
7. Print a network configuration page from your printer to confirm the connection and note the IP address assigned to your printer.

In my opinion, WPS has been a game-changer for setting up wireless printers. I've used it countless times to quickly connect printers without having to fumble with long passwords or complex network settings. The convenience of being able to set up a printer with just a few button presses has saved me time and hassle on numerous occasions.

Option 2: Using manufacturer-specific apps

While WPS is a fantastic option for many users, it's not the only way to connect your printer to WiFi. If your printer doesn't support WPS, or if you want access to additional features and settings, using a manufacturer-specific app might be the way to go. Most major printer manufacturers offer their own apps that allow you to connect your printer to WiFi, even if your printer doesn't support WPS.

HP printers

HP offers the HP Smart app for both computers and mobile devices, which provides a comprehensive solution for HP printers. Here's how to use it:

1. Download and install the HP Smart app from HP's website or your device's app store.
2. Make sure your HP printer is turned on and in range of your WiFi network.
3. Open the HP Smart app and click on the plus sign (+) to add a new printer.
4. The app should automatically detect your printer if it's on the same network. If not, you may need to temporarily connect your printer to your computer with a USB cable.
5. Follow the on-screen instructions to connect your printer to your WiFi network. You'll need to enter your network name and password.

The HP Smart app offers some advantages over WPS, such as the ability to troubleshoot connection issues and access HP-specific features like ink level monitoring and easy reordering of supplies.

Xerox printers

Xerox provides several methods for connecting their printers to WiFi, including through the printer's control panel and the Embedded Web Server. Here's how to use the control panel method:

1. On your Xerox printer's control panel, navigate to the "Settings" menu.
2. Select "Network/Ports", then "Wireless".
3. Choose "Setup On Printer Panel", then "Choose Network".
4. Select your WiFi network from the list and enter the password when prompted.
5. Once connected, print a configuration page to confirm the connection and note your printer's IP address.

Xerox's method offers the advantage of not requiring any additional software, making it a quick and easy solution for those comfortable navigating printer menus.

Brother printers

Brother offers several methods for connecting their printers to WiFi, including Wireless Direct and Infrastructure Mode. Here's how to use the Infrastructure Mode method:

1. On your Brother printer's control panel, press the Menu button.
2. Use the arrow keys to select "Network", then press OK.
3. Select "WLAN", then "Setup Wizard".
4. The printer will search for available networks. Select your network and enter the password when prompted.
5. Once connected, the printer will print a WLAN report. Check this report to confirm the connection and note your printer's IP address.

Brother's method is straightforward and doesn't require additional software, making it a good option for those who prefer to set up their printer directly from the device.

Canon printers

Canon provides the Canon PRINT Inkjet/SELPHY app for connecting their printers to WiFi. Here's how to use it:

1. Download and install the Canon PRINT app from Canon's website or your device's app store.
2. Make sure your Canon printer is turned on and in range of your WiFi network.
3. Open the Canon PRINT app and tap the printer icon at the top of the screen.
4. Tap "Register Printer", then "Setup".
5. Follow the on-screen instructions to connect your printer to your WiFi network. You'll need to enter your network name and password.

The Canon PRINT app offers additional features like scanning documents using your printer's scanner and checking ink levels, making it a versatile tool for Canon printer owners.

Why use manufacturer-specific apps?

Using manufacturer-specific apps can be particularly useful if you have an older printer that doesn't support WPS, or if you want access to additional features that aren't available through standard WiFi setup methods. These apps often provide a more tailored experience for your specific printer model and can offer functionality beyond just connecting to WiFi, such as troubleshooting, supply ordering, and printer maintenance.

In my own printing setup at home, I've found that using the manufacturer's app gives me more control over my printer's settings and allows me to easily monitor things like ink levels and print quality. It's also been helpful for tasks like scanning documents directly to my phone, which isn't possible with a basic WiFi connection alone.

However, it's worth noting that these apps may require you to create an account with the printer manufacturer, and they may collect data about your printing habits. If privacy is a concern, you might prefer to stick with WPS or manual setup methods when possible.

What to do after connecting your printer to WiFi?

Connecting your printer to WiFi is just the first step in unleashing the full potential of wireless printing. Whether you've used WPS, a manufacturer-specific app, or another method, you should now have a printer that's ready to receive print jobs from any device on your network.

Here's what you might want to do next:

• Install printer drivers on your computers: Even with a WiFi connection, you'll need to install the appropriate drivers on each computer you want to print from.
• Set up mobile printing: Configure apps like AirPrint for iOS devices or Mopria Print Service for Android to print directly from your mobile devices.
• Test your connection: Try printing a test page from different devices to ensure everything is working correctly.
• Explore additional features: Many wireless printers offer more features like scanning to email or cloud storage — take some time to explore these options.

Wireless printing offers a level of convenience and flexibility that's hard to beat. While the setup process might seem daunting at first, the benefits of being able to print from any device, anywhere in your home or office, make it well worth the effort. And with the methods we've covered in this guide, you should be able to get your printer connected to WiFi with minimal fuss.

We've featured the best all-in-one printer.

Don’t settle for just any electric kettle -- find the best value and quality with our expert-tested picks.

The best VPN apps continue to disappear from the Apple App Store in Russia upon government request.

Earlier today, October 31, 2024, it was the time for Amenzia VPN, a popular free VPN service developed by Russian digital rights advocacy group Roskomsvoboda.

The provider shared the bad news on its Telegram channel in the early hours of the day. The team also confirmed to TechRadar that tests conducted by the AppleCensorship project could show how the app became unavailable only four hours – or even less than that – after developers received notifications from Apple about the Russian censor body's order (see the image below).

(Image credit: Amnezia VPN)

"This is another confirmation of how lightning-fast Apple is in fulfilling censors' demands," an Amnezia VPN spokesperson told me. "For companies whose apps are removed, there is no time or opportunity to challenge the requests of the Russian authorities."

The Big Tech giant has already removed over 60 VPN apps since July this year. A total of almost 100 services are currently unavailable for download in the official App Store in Russia.

As mentioned earlier, experts at Roskomsvoboda developed Amnezia VPN precisely to give people living under strict internet censorship a means to access the open web. The team claims, in fact, that Amenzia VPN is one of the most stable and effective VPNs working in Russia, Iran, and other countries where VPN protocols are monitored and blocked by authorities.

In September 2024, a large coalition of human rights organizations, media, and VPN providers wrote an open letter calling Apple to "immediately restore" VPN apps to its Russian App Store. According to experts, that letter remains unanswered.

"Apple continues to ignore civil society’s demands to do the right thing and uphold human rights in Russia by reinstating VPNs they have blocked at the request of Roskomnadzor, the country’s censorship agency," said Anastasiya Zhyrmont, Eastern Europe & Central Asia Policy Manager at Access Now, while describing the removal of Amenzia VPN "a huge blow to fundamental freedoms."

How to download a Russia VPN

Whether you live in Russia or are visiting anytime soon, you certainly need a VPN to keep accessing the open web. Both Freedom House and Reporters Without Borders (RSF) classify Russia as one of the worst countries for internet freedom due to its high levels of online censorship.

A VPN, short for virtual private network, spoofs your real IP address location to help you bypass geo-restrictions on online content while encrypting all your internet connections to boost your privacy when browsing.

(Image credit: Shutterstock)

If you're struggling to download a Russia VPN app, below are some quick tips Zhyrmont from Access Now shared with us:

• Download as many VPN apps still available as possible. This will allow you to hop from one to another in case some services will stop working. I suggest looking at our free VPN guide to get the most secure services out there without paying for them all.
• Download independent media apps with embedded circumvention technologies. While many websites for independent publications are restricted in Russia, newsrooms developed censorship-resistant applications so that readers can access their content without the need to download a VPN. The Meduza app is one worth checking out.
• Try to switch your Apple ID from ru-zone. Doing this may be a bit challenging, though, especially if you have active subscriptions on the Apple App Store.

All in all, experts feel that Apple should be a vendor to avoid in the first place for people in Russia who want to keep enjoying their digital freedoms.

Commenting on this point, Stanislav Shakirov, CTO at Roskomsvoboda told me: "[Apple] is the only one helping Russian censors. If this policy is not changed, over time Apple's equipment will be useless for access to the free Internet from Russia as there will be nothing left in the Russian AppStore that has not been blocked by authorities."

We hate to be the bearer of bad news but some things need to be washed by hand.

Secretlab Titan Evo NanoGen Edition: Two-minute review

The Secretlab Titan Evo NanoGen Edition is a new variant of the classic chair from the brand featuring some brand-new materials. While there’s a familiar chair under the hood, these materials elevate this edition a little beyond its brethren in terms of sheer comfort.

The new soft materials - which Secretlab refers to as NanoGen Hybrid Leatherette and NanoFoam Composite - are legitimately excellent and make for an extremely comfortable chair. The former is an exceptionally soft leatherette that’s a joy to touch, and a material that Secretlab claims is its toughest and plushest yet, offering enhanced stain resistance. latter is a supportive yet delightfully comfortable composite that feels like it has memory foam qualities when you lean back into it. Overall, it does make for some of the comfiest chair materials I’ve experienced in years.

As comfortable as these new materials are - and they really are, don’t get me wrong - I don’t think they’re so good that a regular Titan Evo would feel uncomfortable comparatively. The reality is that a regular Titan Evo is still going to be a great gaming chair, provide excellent support and comfort, and come in a chunk cheaper. This is the NanoGen’s biggest challenge; to justify the jump in cost and convince most people to get it. 

More generally, though, as a premium chair, the price is still quite aggressive in the face of the competition. With the likes of the Herman Miller x Logitech Embody and the Razer Fujin Pro coming in substantially more expensive.

Aside from the materials and price tag, the NanoGen shares almost everything else with the now well-established Titan Evo line - everything that makes that chair our pick for the best gaming chair money can buy. From an easy-as-pie construction to a robust and weighty build, plus a host of support- and comfort-enhancing features like excellent armrests and a robust set of adjustability options to a slick and chic finish to every part, the NanoGen Edition channels everything great about the Titan Evo under its new hood.

As a result, all in, the NanoGen largely justifies the price tag and its position as one of the most comfortable gaming chairs. It’s a superb chair and the new materials are not just gimmicks - they make a wonderful difference in terms of comfort and support.

(Image credit: Future/Rob Dwiar) Secretlab Titan Evo NanoGen Edition: Price and availability

• List price: R size: $799 / £669 / AU$1,099; XL size: $849 / £719 / AU$1,199
• Available in Pure White and Pure Black only
• Available in US, CA, EU, AU, NZ, SG, MY; coming soon to the UK

Coming in at the above prices, this new Titan Evo does come in notably higher than other models adding $250 / £200 over a regular Titan Evo size, and a jump of $200 / £180 for the XL size. 

Whether the materials alone are worth this extra investment will likely depend on your preferences, needs, and budget. However, even at this early part of my review, I wouldn’t go as far as saying that the NanoGen Edition makes the other Titan Evo chairs obsolete or ‘uncomfortable’ by comparison at all. As a result, this new edition has its work cut out for it to really warrant and justify the higher price tag.

However, this still comes in much cheaper than the likes of the Herman Miller x Logitech Embody and the Razer Fujin Pro and offers that trademark Secretlab premium gaming chair feel and experience. 

In turn, the NanoGen Edition is still much more expensive than the AndaSeat Kaiser 3 XL, a spacious chair that could provide some stern value-based competition.

(Image credit: Future/Rob Dwiar) Secretlab Titan Evo NanoGen Edition: Specs Secretlab Titan Evo NanoGen Edition: Design and aesthetics

• White look is very chic
• Signature Secretlab design and build quality
• An equally office-friendly aesthetic

At a glance, the NanoGen Edition looks identical to a Titan Evo chair. The chair has a simple, restrained, and chic look in the white finish sent to us for review, and I can imagine the black chair looking equally as slick and perhaps even more office-friendly than the white. 

There are no wild flourishes adorning the all-white finish on our chair and it’s a symphony in clean white leatherette material. However, the slight chink in this is the inclusion of a grey armrest and headrest, which are soft and comfortable, but next to the white of the rest of the chair have an almost dirty look. It’s not a huge detractor by any means but something that’s noticeable given that ultra-clean finish elsewhere.

The overall design is straight from the Titan Evo line too, so with that in mind, the build quality and feature set are excellent. It is so well built and robust that you can have serious confidence in this, no matter your seating preference or how aggressively you might shoot about your space.

(Image credit: Future/Rob Dwiar)

The fabulous castors are as smooth as ever, on the wide wheelbase that provides excellent stability given its (quite large) footprint. The armrests are also a delight. The NanoGen Edition chair features Secretlab’s PlushCell Memory Foam Armrest Tops on its all-new heavy-duty full metal 4D armests, both of which are superb.

There are so many customization options with the armrests themselves - which also offer a great range of adjustment, 50% more than previous iterations - that I’m still tinkering to get the perfect setup weeks into testing. They are sturdy as heck too, while the armrest tops are wonderfully comfortable, swallowing up your elbows in soft cushioned goodness. 

The magnetic fixing of the armrest top means you can swap out to another material too should you wish at another time adding further customizability. The only other way it could get even more customizable would be to attach the new Secretlab Ergonomic Recliner.

(Image credit: Future/Rob Dwiar) Secretlab Titan Evo NanoGen Edition: Comfort and adjustability

• Wonderfully soft materials
• New foam is extremely comfortable
• Plenty of adjustability

In short, the Secretlab Titan Evo NanoGen Edition is one of the comfiest chairs I’ve sat on. The new NanoFoam within the chair and the NanoGen Leatherette material that finishes it combined with the brilliant design, build, proportions, and frame of a Titan Evo make one seriously comfy chair.

Sinking into the seat or back and being embraced by the NanoFoam finished in that super-soft new leatherette is really something - and also offers something different to the Secretlab Titan Evo SoftWeave chairs. I’m looking forward to it remaining my go-to daily driver when I'm in the office, but it won’t quite displace the Herman Miller Embody I have at home. 

The NanoGen Edition shares the majority of its adjustability options with the wider Titan Evo line so if you’re familiar with those chairs at all, then you’ll be right at home with this one too. Given that I’m used to a shorter chair in the Embody, I have found that if you’re a sloucher or someone who doesn’t totally sit right back into their chair, you’ll need to get used to that - there’s no use to the chair unless you actually lean and sit into it after all.

Working from the ground up, underneath are the usual levers for seat height adjustment and tilt adjustment. On the seat itself, you have a lever for the back recline (which can go all the way to…), on the side, there’s the wheel for the built-in lumbar support (a joy to have), and then there are the armrests.

I have found these to be a particular highlight; as someone who leans a lot on their elbows, the memory foam material was extremely comfy straight away, but the excellent range of adjustability means you won’t be short of different positions for support either. Finishing it off, the magnetic cushion for your head is a soft delight too, but you can remove it if you prefer.

As we know from the brand, it’s all supremely easy to adjust - though you may find yourself tinkering for weeks, like me, chasing that perfect setup.

(Image credit: Future/Rob Dwiar) Secretlab Titan Evo NanoGen Edition: Assembly

• Takes around 30-45 minutes solo
• All tools provided
• Magnetic parts make it easy

Unlike other premium chairs, such as those from Herman Miller which can roll straight out of the box ready to go, the Secretlab NanoGen Edition does require some construction. Coming neatly and securely flat packed, my XL version was a bit weighty in its box but I could easily slide it around our office carpet on my own to get it in position.

The actual construction of the chair doesn’t take long at all, even on one's own with an XL size. There are essentially only three parts to it - the wheelbase, the seat, and the back - which makes it easy to process which parts slot into others. My time was about 30 minutes all in (maybe 45 if you count some checking of the instructions), though if you’ve built a Secretlab chair before, expect your time to be lower.

(Image credit: Future/Rob Dwiar)

The large-scale instructions on the box are easy to follow and consist of only a few steps, with some minor ‘sub-steps’. You also get all the tools included in the box which is excellent. Magnetic armrests and covers to hide screws are then the icing on the cake and make finishing the chair’s build easy as pie.

The screws are easy to attach and tighten even for someone with small slightly-different hands like mine, and the only time I really found it awkward was when aligning the backrest to the seat. Otherwise, there’s no awkward alignment for bits or the need for a flashlight, and it’s eminently doable on your own - plus you get to squeeze and caress that exquisite material up close all the while.

Should you buy the Secretlab Titan Evo NanoGen Edition? Buy it if...

You’re after some supremely soft and comfortable materials for your gaming chair
The NanoGen material and NanoFoam within this chair make for excellent comfort. The chair is supremely soft and comfortable on your posterior and back, and the brilliant armrests complete the whole package.

You want the latest in materials from Secretlab
If you were already sold on a Secretlab chair, and are now on the lookout for the best and latest materials going from the brand, then the NanoGen Edition is for you.

You want a chair for long work and play sessions
Combining the comfort of the new materials as well as the pedigree of the Titan Evo means this chair is a joy for long periods of work and play, and the easiest of recommendations for those looking for something for hours of comfort.

Don't buy it if...

You’re not sold on paying more for the materials
The materials on the NanoGen edition are superb but the jump in price means the ‘regular’ Titan Evo could represent better value for your money if you’re not convinced about the new materials and their fancy names.

You’re on a tight budget
Yup, it seems like an obvious point to make but as good as they are Secretlab chairs still require a healthy investment - and one that only increases with the new NanoGen materials.

Also consider...

If you’re still not convinced by the NanoGen Edition, then these two other chairs could be worth considering.

Secretlab Titan Evo 2022
The ‘regular’ Titan Evo chair is still an absolute belter and our pick for the top gaming chair overall you can buy right now. It shares a lot with the NanoGen Edition but crucially comes in a bit cheaper and is still an excellently comfortable gaming chair. If you want comfort from Secretlab but are looking to save money, then the regular Titan Evo could be the way to go.

For more information, check out our full Secretlab Titan Evo review. 

AndaSeat Kaiser 3 XL
If you’re looking for a larger chair but want to maximize value and get some great comfort-focused features at the same time then the AndaSeat Kaiser 3 XL is a fine alternative. Featuring incredibly comfortable and plus materials as well as all the trimmings from lumbar support to 4D arms, it's a great value proposition.

For more information, check out our full AndaSeat Kaiser 3 XL review. 

How I tested the Secretlab Titan Evo NanoGen Edition

• Tested over the course of multiple weeks
• Compared to other gaming chairs from the likes of Herman Miller
• Tested in all positions

I tested the Secretlab Titan Evo NanoGen Edition by deploying it as my go-to, daily office chair, and used it over the course of four weeks.

I used it for long stretches of work and also some handheld gaming, and gave each feature and element of the chair a thorough testing in all seating positions, from leaning back, to cross-legged, and everything in between.

Fortunately, I was also able to directly compare it against other chairs we have in the office, notably a Herman Miller Aeron which is currently being reviewed too.

Read more about how we test 

First reviewed October 2024

Gaming furniture manufacturer Secretlab has unveiled the Secretlab Titan Evo NanoGen Edition, a new variant of its hugely popular Secretlab Titan Evo gaming chair. This model features all-new materials that have been designed with durability and plushness in mind.

The company is calling the new finish found on this model the Secretlab NanoGen Hybrid Leatherette and claims that it combines the resilience associated with a traditional leatherette and the softness of a plush material. The chair benefits from the new Secretlab NanoFoam Composite too, which is intended to provide a similar balance of support and comfort via a combination of a proprietary dual-layer foam mix and a lightweight microfoam top.

The chair is available in clean Pure White and Pure Black colorways and, in addition to its softer feel, the NanoGen Hybrid Leatherette offers enhanced UV resistance to ensure that its striking look doesn’t fade over time. “Specialty nanofibers” are also woven into the design to offer improved stain resistance, which is going to be especially good news if you have your eyes on that Pure White model.

The Secretlab Titan Evo NanoGen Edition comes paired with the Secretlab PlushCell Memory Foam Armrest Top out of the box, which is normally sold as a separate $79 / £65 add-on. These are a lot squishier than the usual Secretlab armrest tops and seem like a good match for the softer chair. 

This is in addition to an enhanced Heavy Duty Edition armrest, which has a 50% greater adjustment range for more personalized comfort. As you would expect, the chair is still compatible with the existing line of CloudSwap accessories which would allow you to swap out your armrests for other designs if desired.

You can order the chair today via the Secretlab website and costs $799 / £669 for its regular size. This is $250 / £200 more than the standard Secretlab Titan Evo 2022. The XL model then comes in at $849 / £719.

Managing Editor Rob Dwiar has been testing the chair for a few weeks and has found it to be wonderfully comfortable and soft. You can read all about it in our new Secretlab Titan Evo NanoGen Edition review.

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I sorted through all the cards offering TSA PreCheck to find the best way to get this perk for no out-of-pocket cost.

Don't wait another minute to try The Devil's Hour.

Nubia Red Magic Nova Tablet review: Two-minute review

Not content with all but cornering the market in affordable gaming phones, Nubia has now turned its attention to addressing an even more niche market: that of the gaming tablet.

Following the limited launch of the Red Magic Tablet in 2023, the Red Magic Nova Tablet stands as Nubia’s first globally available gaming tablet, and is positioned as a full-sized tablet with top-level gaming performance at a mid-market price.

The Nova largely delivers on that promise, offering a level of gaming performance that punches well above its weight. This machine flies through high-end games on top settings, and although its 10.9-inch 144Hz IPS LCD isn’t the best screen on the market, it is able to keep up with the tablet’s monstrous Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 Leading Version processor. That’s good news for any games that can hit 120fps or higher.

There is the slight sense that Nubia hasn’t quite thought this whole gaming tablet thing through, though. For example, you have to suspect that committed gamers will be pairing up a Bluetooth controller, so a kickstand or a bundled-in case with a stand would have been useful.

Elsewhere, while performance is extremely impressive, our gaming benchmarks suggest that the Nova Tablet isn’t quite as stable across extended intensive sessions as you might hope. It’s nothing to worry about with today’s most advanced games, though, where everything flies.

Meanwhile, Nubia’s custom UI continues to need work, though Game Space remains a solid way to tweak and optimize your gaming experience.

All in all, the Red Magic Nova Tablet comes across as an extremely capable, keenly priced tablet that perhaps hasn’t yet reached its final form. Those looking for the best tablet performance for less than $500/ £500 should definitely consider it, and we’re excited to see how Nubia’s Red Magic sub-brand refines and develops its gaming tablet vision in future products.

Nubia Red Magic Nova Tablet review: price and availability

(Image credit: Future)

• From $499/ £439
• Open availability from October 16, 2024

The Nubia Red Magic Nova Tablet went on sale on October 16, 2024, though at the time of writing, stock has run out due to high demand, and the device is listed as being available to pre-order on Red Magic's official website. Red Magic has, however, told TechRadar that stock will be replenished in November.

Nubia’s Red Magic sub-brand has always supplied outstanding value for money, and that continues to be the case with its first global gaming tablet. Pricing starts from just $499/£439 for the model with 12GB of RAM and 256GB of storage.

There’s also a second, more premium model with 16GB of RAM and 512GB of storage available for $649 / £559.

You won’t find another Android-based tablet with this level of performance for such a low price. The OnePlus Pad 2 gets closest, offering the same Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset and a similarly swift 144Hz display at a price of £499.

The Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE gets closer to the Red Magic on price, starting from £449. However, it doesn’t even approach the Nova Tablet on raw performance.

It’s possible to buy a tablet that outstrips the Red Magic Nova Tablet for raw performance, but you’ll need to switch over to team Apple to do so. Even then, the mighty M2-powered iPad Air, which starts from $599 / £599, sports a puny 60Hz display, and lacks the Red Magic’s meaty cooling system for sustained gaming.

• Value score: 5/5

Nubia Red Magic Nova Tablet review: specs Nubia Red Magic Nova Tablet review: design Image 1 of 3

(Image credit: Future)Image 2 of 3

(Image credit: Future)Image 3 of 3

(Image credit: Future)

• Standard tablet shape and size with mostly metal body
• Signature semi-transparent window and RGB
• No 3.5mm headphone jack
• Would benefit from a bundled case or an integrated kickstand

Nubia’s Red Magic gaming phones are pretty chunky and angular, but the Nova’s design is more in line with what you’d expect from a regular tablet. It’s got that familiar flat-edged form factor, with an all-metal body and tightly rounded corners.

At 7.3mm, this isn’t the thinnest tablet on the market, but nor is it distractingly thick. By the same token, a weight of 530g is only a little heavier than the Samsung Galaxy S23 FE – though Nubia’s use of the word ‘dainty’ on its website is a bit of a stretch.

It’s only when you turn the Nova Tablet over and look at the back that it makes its gaming aspirations known. Nubia has applied its familiar semi-transparent finish to the thin band running between the camera module and the opposite edge of the tablet.

Those aren’t actual components you can see through the transparent material, just a fancy bit of circuitry accented by a gold color. You also get a little diagram sketching out the internal heat pipe, with the words ‘Cooling System’ helpfully printed on it. Nubia has also advertised the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 Leading Version chip in a similar manner.

One genuine component on display is the cooling fan, which can be seen alongside the rear camera. This lights up in full RGB when in use, as do the words ‘Red Magic’ in the opposite corner. It’s not exactly subtle by normal standards, but relative to the wider gamer aesthetic, it’s all quite low-key.

Image 1 of 2

(Image credit: Future)Image 2 of 2

(Image credit: Future)

The tablet feels nice to handle, with a power key partly recessed on the left edge. This doubles as a fingerprint sensor, and it performs quickly and reliably. As always, it’s never quite as intuitive an experience as the same system on a smartphone, but there is also a basic facial recognition system in place.

I’m a little puzzled by the omission of a 3.5mm headphone jack on the Red Magic. Given the size and thickness of the tablet and its gaming focus, providing the means for latency-free personal audio would seem like an obvious step.

Indeed, it feels as if Nubia hasn’t quite hit upon the final form of the gaming tablet just yet. It makes sense that the Nova lacks the capacitive air trigger buttons of, say, the Red Magic 9S Pro, as gamers are going to be pairing it up with a Bluetooth controller rather than holding it like a phone (though the idea of some rear-mounted capacitive controls is an intriguing one).

With this in mind, I’d argue that having a case with a decent kickstand would be more than a nice extra here, entering into ‘must-have’ territory. The company assures me that an optional cover should be available for the Nova Tablet’s global launch (alongside a stylus), but I wonder if such a thing should come as standard, even if that meant a slightly higher asking price. This feels like the kind of tablet that would really benefit from one. There’s even a case to be made for the device itself having a built-in kickstand, rather like the Nintendo Switch.

• Design score: 3.5/5

Nubia Red Magic Nova Tablet review: display

(Image credit: Future)

• 10.9-inch IPS LCD with 2.8K resolution
• Rapid 144Hz refresh rate
• 550 nits peak brightness

The Red Magic Nova Tablet employs a 10.9-inch display, which doesn’t feel as large as it once did. Not with the likes of the OnePlus Pad 2 and the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE Plus bursting past the 12-inch mark.

It’s nice and sharp at 1800 x 2880 (Nubia calls this resolution ‘2.8K’), but the stand-out spec is a 144Hz refresh rate. The OnePlus Pad 2 also hits this mark, but it’s not what you’d call a typical refresh rate for a tablet. True, most mobile games won’t even hit the heady heights of 120Hz, but it’s nice to see a little headroom here nonetheless.

This refresh rate is paired with an 840Hz touch sampling rate, which means that it’s nice and responsive for those speedy multiplayer action games, should you not be using a paired Bluetooth controller.

Image quality is solid rather than spectacular. What with this being an IPS LCD, it lacks the pop and punch of an OLED, but that’s still not the kind of component you’ll typically find in a mid-priced tablet.

I would have liked the Nova to get a little brighter, though. Nubia cites a top brightness of 550 nits, which is fine. In practical terms, I frequently found myself cranking it up to the top brightness even when viewing the tablet indoors. This yielded a comfortable viewing experience, but a little more would have been welcome to help overcome those instances of glare or reflectiveness.

The screen is flanked by four symmetrically arranged speakers, with assistance from DTS-X Ultra Sound for a so-called “3D audio experience”. The resulting output is clear and loud, though we’re not talking about anything approaching iPad quality here which, given that price tag, is wholly understandable.

• Display score: 3.5/5

Nubia Red Magic Nova Tablet review: performance

(Image credit: Future)

• Slightly faster Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 ‘Leading Version’ chip
• 12GB or 16GB RAM of LPDDR5X RAM
• 256GB or 512GB UFS 4.0 storage

Nubia has used the same Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 Leading Version chip here that powers its latest gaming smartphone, the Red Magic 9S Pro. This is a slightly overclocked version of the chip that runs most of the best Android phones in 2024. In other words, it’s one of the very best mobile chips on the market. In benchmarking terms, it’ll top or at least match anything running on Android, and you’ll need to invest in an Apple M2-powered iPad Air or an M4-powered iPad Pro to flat-out beat it.

General performance is unimpeachable, especially with either 12 or 16GB of LPDDR5X RAM backing it up. I’m testing the top spec, and I couldn’t make it sweat at all in general usage.

Of course, it’s not in regular scenarios that this tablet needs to be judged. This is a machine that’s built for gaming performance, and there isn’t much to worry about on that front either.

It’ll run both Genshin Impact and Wreckfest on maxed-out graphical settings with more or less perfect fluidity. That’s to be expected, because both of those games are a few years old now.

This speaks to a wider issue with dedicated mobile gaming devices. Mobile games themselves haven’t really pushed any technical boundaries for quite some time – at least not on Android – while mobile processors continue to get more and more powerful. The end result is that even a half-decent mid-range smartphone can play these more visually opulent games pretty well.

Where these gaming devices can set themselves apart is with sustained performance. Those top-notch off-the-shelf chips, when paired with bespoke cooling systems, can run faster for longer. To that end, Nubia has equipped the Red Magic Nova Tablet with a 20,000 RPM cooling fan.

Interestingly, you don’t get the accompanying open vent of the Red Magic smartphone series. This device instead uses the extra internal volume to create an extended but closed loop for cooling. Allied to that is a nine-layer cooling system, together with a 103mm-long 3D heat pipe.

It all sounds very impressive, but I was a little concerned about the performance stability of the Red Magic Nova Tablet. I ran a couple of 3D Mark Stress Tests, which simulate extended gaming performance through 20 consecutive minute-long graphical tests, with the tablet set to maximum gaming performance via the Game Space UI.

The results were mixed. The high-end Solar Bay Stress Test, in particular, ranged from 72% (fairly stable) to 26.5% (downright unstable), indicating that at least some degree of throttling is taking place over time. Switching between Rising and Balanced performance modes didn’t seem to make any difference here, either.

Even that top mark of 72% is far from blistering. It’s about what I got with the new Samsung Galaxy Tab S10 Plus – a capable performer for sure, but also not a gaming specialist with a particularly extensive cooling system. True, the Red Magic scored higher marks in general, but it was no more consistent with it. I should also note that the tablet would occasionally run uncomfortably hot by the end of these tests.

Interestingly, I found similarly less-than-stellar results in these tests on the Red Magic 9S Pro smartphone. No other tablet or phone series has such a meaty cooling system, so could this indicate some inherent thermal limitations with the overclocked Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 Leading Version?

We should always bring it back to the games regardless, and in real-world use, I didn’t run into any throttling issues when gaming for extended spells. After an hour of Wreckfest running on maximum graphical settings, I didn’t notice any big drop in frame rate.

Nubia has included a single 50MP camera on the rear of the phone. Suffice it to say, if no tablet is particularly great for taking pictures, then a mid-priced gaming tablet definitely shouldn’t be relied upon. It’s an appropriately bare-bones offering with no OIS, though it does at least support 4K video at 30fps.

The 20MP selfie camera is similarly limited, though at least Nubia hasn’t resorted to using a terrible under-display example, like with its smartphones. It’ll do fine for video calls.

• Performance score: 4.5/5

Nubia Red Magic Nova Tablet review: software

(Image credit: Future)

• Red Magic OS 9.5 on Android 14
• Ugly but functional UI
• Game Space UI lets you fine-tune your gaming setup

Software has always been a bit of a weakness with Red Magic devices, and that hasn’t changed with the transition to a larger tablet form factor. You’re getting the same Red Magic OS 9.5 that ran on the Red Magic 9S Pro smartphone, layered over the same Android 14 OS.

It’s not an attractive UI, despite Nubia having corrected a lot of its worst aspects such as clumsy screen-filling widgets and poorly translated text. It still feels a little unfinished, as evidenced by the odd syntax-mangling Game Space notification.

I’d rather not have to deal with Nubia’s custom feed to the left of the main home screen, which pulls in randomly chosen news stories, as well as the kind of game recommendations no self-respecting gamer would entertain.

On a similar point, there are two folders dedicated to Hot Apps and Hot Games on the home screen. Needless to say, none of the applications contained within look remotely ‘hot’.

With all that said, Red Magic OS 9.5 is perfectly smooth and functional. It runs at a consistently speedy lick, and doesn’t flood the home screen with third-party apps. Yes, there’s an extraneous web browser, and yes, Booking.com sneaks its way in again. But both are at least stashed away in the app tray.

There’s no physical switch to activate Nubia’s Game Space app here, unlike with the brand’s gaming phones. It’s still there, though, running along in the background while playing games, as well as being accessible from the drop-down notification menu.

You can use this app to tweak fan, CPU, and GPU settings, and to set up screen recording. You can also tweak screen sensitivity settings here, as well as play around with screen ratios, among other things. It’s a powerful tool for gamers looking to set their favored game up just so.

Ultimately, Red Magic OS 9.5 is a perfectly functional UI that’s easy enough to work with, if tough to truly love.

• Software score: 3.5/5

Nubia Red Magic Nova Tablet review: battery life

(Image credit: Future)

• 10,100mAh battery
• 10 hours of light gaming is possible
• 80W charging gets it from 0 to 100% in an hour

Nubia has equipped the Red Magic Nova Tablet with a monstrous 10,100mAh battery. That’s bigger even than that of the OnePlus Pad 2, which is a bigger device.

The official estimate for battery life here is up to 10 hours of uninterrupted gaming on a single charge. However, this would presumably be with the display refresh rate set to 60Hz, the brightness kept relatively low, and a fairly undemanding game being played. I suspect that this isn’t a particularly representative scenario for your average committed gamer.

For my own usage, with the brightness and refresh rate cranked up to maximum, I couldn’t get anywhere near that figure, regardless of the game. After 30 minutes of Warzone Mobile, the battery life had dropped by 17%, which maps out to around three hours of gaming.

Even with lighter fare, I couldn’t get close to that stated figure. After 30 minutes of Slay the Spire, that percentage had dropped by 12%, suggesting it would have lasted four hours.

In more normal usage, with a little light gaming, some web browsing, and light app usage, you could very well get through a full working day on a single charge.

With such a large cell, there’s always the worry about charging times. Nubia has mitigated this with 80W charging support, and it even includes the brick in the box.

I couldn’t quite match Nubia’s estimate of a full charge in 55 minutes, but it still only took a smidgen over an hour in my testing. A quick 15-minute splash got it to 36%.

• Battery score: 4/5

Should I buy the Nubia Red Magic Nova Tablet? Buy it if...

You want the fastest tablet possible for less than $500/£500
In terms of performance bang for your buck, the Red Magic Nova Tablet beats all comers.

You’re a committed mobile gamer
The Nova Tablet is set up for gaming, with top-level performance and a suite of game-enhancing tools.

You dig the gamer aesthetic
Nubia hasn’t gone too hard on the gamer aesthetic, but you still get a ‘cool’ semi-transparent motif on the back with some RGB lighting.

Don't buy it if...

You’re a fan of clean UIs
Nubia’s custom software is a little on the ugly side, straying too far from stock Android.

You want the ultimate gaming tablet experience, money no object
It might be fast and gaming-focused, but an iPad Pro remains a better gaming tablet overall.

You want a genuinely mobile gaming device
The Red Magic Nova Tablet isn’t too big or heavy, but it’s still not ideal for gaming on the move.

Nubia Red Magic Nova Tablet: also consider

OnePlus Pad 2
The OnePlus Pad 2 is perhaps the most direct competitor here, with its £549/£499 pricing, Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 power, and larger 12.1-inch 144Hz display.

iPad Air (2024)
The latest 11-inch iPad Air is more expensive than the Nova Tablet at $599 / £599, and its 60Hz display isn’t massively gamer-friendly, but it’s more powerful and has access to a bigger library of high-end games.

Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE
The Galaxy Tab S9 FE is similarly priced and a classier all-round operator, but it lacks the Nova Tablet’s gaming chops thanks to inferior power and a 90Hz display.

How I tested the Nubia Red Magic Nova Tablet

• Review test period = 1 week
• Testing included = Everyday usage, including web browsing, social media, photography, video calling, gaming, streaming video, music playback
• Tools used = Geekbench 6, GFXBench, 3DMark, native Android stats, bundled Nubia 80W power adapter

First reviewed: October 2024

It’s dangerous to go alone! Take these headsets, keyboards, and mice and give them to your favorite PC gamer.

But most of us likely won't feel any relief from high interest rates until 2025.

Hackers have stolen tens of thousands of cloud account credentials, by abusing exposed Git configuration files, experts have claimed.

Git configuration files are where Git saves different preferences and settings, such as names, email, or which files to ignore. They help Git know how to behave for different projects and can be set up globally (for all projects) or just for specific ones. Sometimes, developers will include valuable secrets in private repositories, since it’s faster, and more convenient. It generally isn’t a problem, as long as the repositories are properly secured.

However, when they are exposed on the internet, hackers can find and grab them, a report from cybersecurity researchers Sysdig, who dubbed the operation “EmeraldWhale”, has revealed.

Active credentials

The threat actors behind EmeraldWhale used multiple scanning tools, such as ‘httpx’, and ‘Masscan’ to scan websites hosted on some 500 million IP addresses. They divided them into 12,000 IP ranges, and looked for exposed Git configuration files.

Once found, the files were first downloaded, and then scanned for the second time, for things like passwords. Sysdig says that more than 15,000 cloud account credentials were stolen this way, and later used either in phishing and spam campaigns, or sold directly to other cybercriminals. Apparently, there’s plenty of money to be made with this discovery, since just a list of URLs pointing to exposed Git configuration files go for roughly $100 on Telegram groups.

In total, the stolen archives were 1TB in size, and included 15,000 credentials from 67,000 URLs. Of all of the exposed URLs, 28,000 corresponded to Git repositories, 6,000 to GitHub tokens, and 2,000 were confirmed as active credentials.

Defending against this type of attack isn’t difficult, just make sure to use a dedicated secret management tool to store the secrets.

Via BleepingComputer

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• Initium concept showcases new design direction for fuel cell vehicles
• Production is scheduled to begin next year
• SUV shape is a ploy to prove hydrogen is robust and safe for everyday use

Hyundai has lifted the lid on its latest hydrogen fuel cell concept, which features all-new fuel cell electric vehicle technology (FCEV) for improved range, performance and durability.

Destined to replace the Nexo, Hyundai’s long-serving but relatively slow-selling FCEV, the Initial concept showcases a bold new design direction that will house the latest technology.

Despite a global push for pure electric vehicles, Hyundai is one of the few automakers that is fully committed to hydrogen as a source of fuel for both future passenger cars, as well as an array of commercial vehicles, including buses, trucks and even construction equipment.

(Image credit: Future)

The Initium concept takes the form of a rugged SUV, complete with a new ‘Art of Steel’ design language that chief designer SangYup Lee says is both “solid and safe”. Apparently, the ‘+’ inspired graphic that you see in the light signature and the bumper will become a stable part of the company’s FCEV passenger cars of the future.

It borrows much off its face from the retro-futuristic N Vision 74 concept, a car that showcased hydrogen’s role in high-performance EVs. Initium is a continuation of this but wrapped up in a more consumer-friendly, SUV package.

Massive 21-inch wheels are covered in bespoke aerodynamic covers and wrapped in low rolling resistance tires, while a rugged roof rack houses integrated front lamps and taillights.

(Image credit: Hyundai)

The rear section has a feint whiff of Pontiac Aztek about it, although the LED lighting signature moves things on from Walter White chic. The four cubes at the front and rear apparently morse code for the letter ‘H’, signifying both Hyundai and hydrogen.

According to Jin Huang Jung, head of vehicle development at Hyundai, 220V Vehicle-to-Load technology allows the fuel cell stack, dubbed a portable green energy source, to power everything from outdoor cookers to appliances in the home. There’s no need for an adaptor either, as the external socket is designed to take Korean plugs.

Hyundai’s 27 years in hydrogen fuel cell research has resulted in the next generation of fuel cell stacks that it believes moves the game on from the early units found in the marque’s ground-breaking Tucson IX35, which offered a range of around 258-miles, and the Nexo of 2018, which increased that range to 414 miles in later iterations.

(Image credit: Future)

The next generation fuel cell vehicle, which will go into production next year, is aiming for a range in excess of 400 miles, which is not exactly the huge increase many expected. But with increased hydrogen density aboard its tanks and an electric motor that is now capable of developing 150kW – or around 200bhp – as opposed to 120kW.

The 0-62mph is now pegged at eight seconds, over a second faster than Nexo.

More importantly, Hyundai says the system’s durability has been drastically improved, reducing the overall degradation of the fuel cell stack to ensure it delivers the claimed range and performance for the vehicle’s lifespan.

Hyundai says it has also developed an FCEV-specific route planner that, much like those systems that hunt down an electric vehicle charging station, can plot an optimal route from within the infotainment system, finding hydrogen charging stations along the way without having to access a separate app.

Analysis: Hydrogen still has a long way to go

(Image credit: Hyundai)

According to Hyundai engineers, it costs around $23million to set-up a public hydrogen refueling station.

Despite this, South Korea hopes to grow its public charging stations from the 192 available today, to well over 600 by 2030. This will help it service the 40,000 hydrogen-powered vehicles it currently has on the roads.

However, the number of fueling stations in other key markets makes for depressing reading. There are just 100 in North America and 265 in Europe. In the UK, the number of hydrogen fueling stations is actually dwindling, not growing.

Producing and transporting hydrogen is also an expensive business, making the whole process costly and more complex than simply recharging batteries. Even handling a hydrogen fueling nozzle, which delivers the gas at a massive 350bar pressure, requires heavy lifting and a knowledge of the process.

(Image credit: Future)

There are also big questions over sustainability, as a hydrogen fuel cell stack is also complex and requires the use of raw earth materials. Couple this with the fact they also require a standard automotive battery pack to function, albeit a much smaller one than a typical EV, and it presents a major problem when it comes to recycling and the end-of-life process.

Jin Huang Jung, Hyundai's head of vehicle development, states that the company was “developing strategies” to recycle elements of the fuel cell stack at the end of its life, but recognized that there were no programs to reuse them like there are with typically EV battery packs.

There are also many issues surrounding the business of producing hydrogen that, if not done using clean energy sources like wind or solar, requires a huge amount of CO2-producing energy.

(Image credit: Hyundai)

But Hyundai’s HTWO vision goes beyond merely developing hydrogen-powered vehicles, as its plan is to create a circular economy where hydrogen is produced from biomass and plastic waste, distributed via its fleet of hydrogen-powered trucks and then used by everything from trams to even eVTOL craft.

The company already has a successful program running in the port of Oakland, California, where some 30 Class 8 Xcient fuel cell hydrogen-powered trucks are helping it reduce its carbon output without impacting payload abilities or halting operations with lengthy charging stops.

Hyundai sees hydrogen as an important part of the future’s energy mix, but the technology, despite being some 27 years old, still feels very much in its infancy where passenger cars are concerned.

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• SU7 Ultra sets record for fastest four-door EV
• It features the largest carbon disc brakes of any production sedan
• Due to be delivered to first customers next year

Xiaomi's debut SU7 electric vehicle has been a runaway success for the Chinese smartphone maker, but it isn’t done proving that it is the master of cooking up a sales storm in its domestic market.

Xiaomi founder, chairman, and CEO Lei Jun unveiled the SU7 Ultra prototype during an annual conference in July this year and has repeatedly taken to China’s premier social media platform Weibo to state the performance intentions of his project.

At Germany’s infamous Nurburgring, which has become the global benchmark for performance car lap times, the road-going, four-door EV managed to post a time of 6:46.874 – a staggering 20 seconds faster than the Porsche Taycan Turbo GT.

It’s a huge undertaking for any vehicle manufacturer, let alone a company that has more experience dealing in smartphones and consumer tech.

According to Lei Jun, the record was snagged with British endurance driver David Pittard behind the wheel in just one lap – a one-take wonder, if you will.

According to the onboard video footage, which can be viewed on YouTube (or just click above), the SU7 Ultra temporarily lost power around two thirds of the way into the run. Had this mishap not have occurred, the lap time would have been even more impressive.

Accessible performance

(Image credit: Xiaomi)

Far from simply being a PR stunt, the 1,526hp, tri-motor Xiaomi SU7 Ultra will join the rest of the line-up and go into production early next year. It is expected to cost 814,900 Chinese yuan – or around $114,000/£88,000/AU$174,000 – but like the rest of Xiaomi’s EV range, will only go on sale in China.

It is a phenomenal amount of car for the money and the spec sheet reads like a petrolhead’s Christmas list: carbon ceramic brakes, a 0-62mph sprint time of 1.98 seconds, a top speed of 217mph, adjustable Bilstein suspension, as well as an interior that’s dripping with carbon fibre and Alcantara.

Although the production model won’t be quite as aggressive as the vehicle that took to the Nurburgring, it will still feature a rear spoiler, a revised front splitter with massive air intakes and an active rear diffuser for added downforce.

It comes as no surprise that the Chinese smartphone manufacturer received 3,680 deposits in the first 10 minutes after the car’s release, according to CarScoops.

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Under-18s will soon be able to use their Android phone to complete contactless payments with parent-approved debit and credit cards.

In a statement issued to 9to5Google, Google confirmed that Google Wallet will be made available to kids in 2025.

To download and use the Wallet app, the individual in question must be a supervised child in Google’s Family Link system, which will allow them to use their parent or guardian’s approved debit or credit card to make tap-to-pay purchases in stores. Crucially, this system won't work online.

And even in brick-and-mortar environments, a device PIN, password, or biometric authentication will be needed to approve contactless payments.

Parents and guardians will also be able to view recent transactions, approve and remove cards remotely, and block passes.

This implementation of the Wallet app also allows the storage of event tickets and gift cards, but not health cards or any form of ID – at least not at launch.

The rollout follows the successful implementation of tap-to-pay on the Fitbit Ace LTE kids activity tracker, which Google says has garnered positive feedback (Fitbit has been a Google brand since 2021).

In fact, much of the infrastructure that will enable kids to use Google Wallet for Android is based on this earlier implementation on Wear OS.

Google Wallet for kids will roll out starting in 2025, with the US among the first countries to receive these new features. According to PhoneArena, Google is proceeding cautiously with this rollout to gather feedback and prioritize user safety.

It’s been a year of substantial updates for the Google Wallet app – as we previously reported, the app now supports passports, health insurance information, and library cards, among other types of passes and tickets.

As mentioned, the under-18s version of the app will be a lot simpler, but this change nonetheless represents another step towards Google’s apparent goal of having Wallet be your app for storing everything.

For the latest updates and official announcements, be sure to keep up with our Android coverage.

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This hyper-robust deck from Technics takes classic design to the audiophile tier.

Microsoft’s Q1 2025 results have exceeded expectations, but rather than having a positive impact on share prices, stock is down over future concerns.

Q1 2025 revenue stood at $65.6 billion, marking a 16% increase and a $1 billion jump over prior Wall Street projections. Operating income was also up by 14% to $30.6 billion.

However, despite the strong performance, company stock declined 4% in after-hours trading, likely as a result of slower-than-anticipated growth projections for the next three-month period.

Microsoft results

“AI-driven transformation is changing work, work artifacts, and workflow across every role, function, and business process,” Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella commented, indicating its cloud efforts are responsible for much of the ongoing growth.

“Strong execution by our sales teams and partners delivered a solid start to our fiscal year with Microsoft Cloud revenue of $38.9 billion,” said CFO Amy Hood. Microsoft Cloud’s $38.9 billion in quarterly revenue marks a considerable 22% year-over-year increase.

Besides its core cloud division, Microsoft noted that LinkedIn’s revenue had increased 10% and Microsoft 365 Commercial products and cloud services had grown by 13% – these are two areas of the business that have been infused with artificial intelligence in recent months, following billions of dollars of investment by the firm.

However, despite predicting continued growth to the tune of between $68.1 billion and $69.1 billion in the next financial quarter, shareholders have been stripped of confidence that the tech giant will continue to deliver such strong performance, leading stock to decline. Analysts had previously projected quarterly revenue of $69.83 billion – more than the upper end of Microsoft’s latest expectation.

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