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From the Oura Ring to Google’s Project Aura and More! | Tech News

As the week comes to a close, we are wrapping up the latest headlines in the world of tech. From Oura Ring Updates to Google’s Project Aura and more, we have you covered on tech and media news. Read this week’s blog and stay connected!

Meta Tests AI-Powered 3D Instagram Photos on Quest Headsets

Meta’s Quest v77 update is rolling out an experimental feature that automatically converts standard 2D Instagram feed images into immersive 3D photos using AI view-synthesis, giving them depth when viewed in VR—no special cameras needed. The trial, available only to a subset of Quest users, debuts alongside other v77 additions including Navigator (a customizable hub for apps, friends, notifications, and settings accessed via the controller’s Meta/Oculus button), experimental Bluetooth LE audio support, a movable “follow-me” window option, and Horizon for PC, which merges Quest Link, casting, and remote desktop into one desktop app.

Rode Wireless Micro Update Adds Direct Bluetooth Connection to iPhone

Rode’s latest firmware adds “Direct Connect,” letting the $149 Wireless Micro pair straight to iOS devices over Bluetooth without its USB-C receiver; the trade-offs are iOS-only compatibility, a single-mic limit, and reduced range versus the receiver. The update also brings per-mic noise-reduction, in-app output-gain control, and the choice to record two mics as a merged stereo track or separate channels for easier post-production.

Google and Samsung Team Up to Add Desktop Mode in Android 16

Google is integrating a DeX-style desktop interface directly into Android 16, partnering with Samsung to expand the phone-to-PC experience beyond Galaxy devices. Demonstrated at Google I/O, the mode centers apps like Gmail, Chrome, YouTube, and Photos on a taskbar at the bottom of an external display, while adaptive windowing lets apps freely resize and reposition. A status bar showing time, Wi-Fi, and battery sits at the top, mirroring laptop conventions. Google says the feature will help apps scale fluidly across foldables, tablets, Chromebooks, mixed-reality headsets, and cars, marking Android 16’s broader push for cross-device versatility.

Oura Ring Update Adds Real-Steps Algorithm, Smarter Calorie Burn, and New Fitness Integrations

Oura is rolling out global firmware and app upgrades that introduce “Real Steps.” The machine-learning pedometer counts steps more accurately on your Oura Ring. In addition, your Oura Ring will adjust active-calorie estimates using heart-rate intensity, and extend activity tracking through the night. The ring also allows seven-day retroactive workout edits that automatically recalculate Readiness and Activity Scores. The update also delivers GPS-based running splits, imports heart-rate data from Apple Health, Strava, and Android Health Connect. In addition, the Oura ring update debuts new partnerships with CorePower Yoga, The Sculpt Society, Technogym, and Open, which will tailor training and recovery advice to each user’s refreshed biometrics.

TikTok–SoundCloud Integration Lets Users Save Discovered Tracks in One Tap

TikTok’s “Add to Music App” button now supports SoundCloud, enabling users to instantly save songs they discover in videos to a dedicated TikTok playlist within the SoundCloud app, joining existing integrations with Apple Music, Spotify, and others. The feature, which has already driven over a billion song saves since launching last year, streamlines music discovery and helps emerging artists expand their audience beyond the video platform as it rolls out globally starting today.

Google Partners with Xreal on “Project Aura” Smart Glasses Powered by Android XR

At Google I/O, Google and AR-wearable maker Xreal unveiled Project Aura, a pair of optical see-through smart glasses that run Android XR on a Qualcomm chipset and feature built-in Gemini AI, wide field-of-view displays, hinge- and bridge-mounted cameras, microphones, and on-frame controls; positioned as the second Android XR device after Samsung’s Project Moohan, Project Aura invites developers to port their headset apps to the glasses ahead of a consumer launch, signaling Google’s renewed platform-first push into smart eyewear while leaving hardware execution to partners.

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Weekend Events | May 23 – May 25

Memorial Day weekend has arrived, and so has our round-up of local fun. From cinema screenings to fairs, festivals, and more, we have you covered! Check out the best activities in your neighborhood from May 23 through May 25. 

Los Angeles Weekend Events | May 23 – May 25 

Cinespia Cemetery Screenings

When: May 24 – June 28 

Where: Hollywood 

What: Cinespia returns to Hollywood Forever Cemetery for another season of iconic outdoor movie nights—an L.A. summer staple. Pack a picnic, bring your favorite drinks (yes, alcohol is allowed), and enjoy cult classics under the stars with DJ sets, photo booths, and festive vibes. First up for 2025: The Big Lebowski (May 24), Clueless (May 25), and Blue Velvet (May 31).

GAME ON! Science, Sports & Play

When: Until August 31 

Where: California Science Museum | USC/Exposition Park

What: The California Science Center debuts a new 17,000-square-foot exhibition on May 15 that explores the science of sports and movement. Kids can take on interactive challenges and get tips from L.A.-based athletes like Debbie Allen and Freddie Freeman. The free exhibit also features public art for the first time, including a Dodgers mural by Gustavo Zermeño Jr., and will remain on display through the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Jazz @ LACMA

When: Until June 20 

Where: Mid-City

What: A beloved L.A. tradition, Jazz at LACMA brings free live jazz to the museum’s welcome plaza every Friday evening throughout the summer. Grab a seat in the plaza (first-come, first-served) or picnic on the lawn and enjoy performances from jazz greats past and present, just behind the iconic Urban Light installation.

Westside and Beach Communities Weekend Events | May 23 – May 25 

Fiesta Hermosa

When: May 24 – May 26  

Where: Venice

What: Celebrate Memorial Day weekend at the Hermosa Beach Fiesta, where you can browse art stalls, enjoy live music across five stages—including one on the beach—sample food, and sip wine in the carnival area at Pier and Monterey Boulevard. With ocean views and a festive atmosphere, it’s the perfect kickoff to summer.

Garden Party at the Culver Hotel

When: May 24 – June 7 

Where: Beverly Hills 

What: The historic Culver Hotel is launching weekly floral-forward garden parties, kicking off on Memorial Day weekend and running through Labor Day. At the furry-friend-friendly Saturday series, your pup can enjoy a “barcuterie” board of snacks while you sip summer spritzes, yuzu-spiked Arnold Palmers, and punch. Meanwhile, canapés like coconut ceviche, avocado tartine, and tuna on crispy rice will be presented in vintage birdcages. A live DJ will provide an ambient soundtrack, and a pop-up flower bar will be on hand offering bespoke bouquets.

MAINopoly: A Taste of Main Street

When: May 25

Where: Santa Monica

What: Main Street in Santa Monica turns into a life-sized Monopoly board for the return of MAINopoly this May. Attendees receive “MAINopoly dollars” to exchange for bites at local favorites like Ashland Hill, Holey Grail Donuts, and Jameson’s Pub. Upgrade to VIP for drinks in the “Go to Jail” lounge and beer garden. Costumes are encouraged—so bring your top hat and monocle!

San Fernando Valley Weekend Events | May 23 – May 25 

Habitat Restoration Day & Earth Month Celebration

When: May 24 

Where: Van Nuys

What: In honor of Earth Day, Friends of the L.A. River is hosting a special habitat restoration event at the Sepulveda Basin Wildlife Preserve. Volunteers will help remove invasive plants while learning about their role in fire risk and the local watershed. Free to participate, but registration is required.

Botanical Portraits with Marie Astrid Gonzalez

When: May 24 

Where: Theodore Payne Foundation | 10459 Tuxford Street

What: Join photographer and former Creative Director of the Theodore Payne Foundation, Marie Astrid González, for a hands-on outdoor class in botanical photography. Learn how to use light, composition, and special techniques to capture stunning plant portraits with your DSLR or phone. Held in the Foundation’s Demonstration Gardens, the class welcomes all experience levels and includes guidance on how to creatively share your photos. Bring your camera, sun protection, and a curious eye!

Emergency Preparedness for People with Companion Animals

When: May 24 

Where: Theodore Payne Foundation | 10459 Tuxford St. | Sun Valley

What: Join us at Love Always Sanctuary on Saturday, May 24, for a special event dedicated to keeping your pets safe during emergencies. Led by renowned fitness trainer and emergency preparedness expert Jean Pierre, this 3 p.m. class will cover how to build a pet emergency kit, identify hazards, and create a safety plan for all kinds of animals—from cats and dogs to birds and beyond.

Conejo Valley Weekend Events | May 23 – May 25 

Topanga Days Country Fair

When: May 24 – May 26 

Where: Topanga

What: Celebrate Memorial Day weekend surrounded by nature at the Topanga Days festival, a beloved local tradition in Topanga Canyon. Enjoy live music—including a Saturday set from the Allah-Las—plus artisan vendors, healing arts, kids’ games, and classic hippie vibes. Don’t miss the DIY Memorial Day parade on Monday at 8:30 a.m., honoring local firefighters. Free shuttle service is available along Topanga Canyon Boulevard.

Simi Summer Days Carnival

When: May 23 – May 26  

Where: Simi Valley Town Center| 

What: Celebrate Memorial Day weekend at the Simi Summer Days Carnival at Simi Valley Town Center, running Friday to Monday, May 23–26. Enjoy carnival rides, games, shopping, and family-friendly entertainment. Hours are 5–10 p.m. on Friday, 2–10 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday, and 2–9 p.m. on Monday.

48th Annual Ojai Art in the Park in Downtown Ojai

When: May 25 

Where: Libbey Park, 210 S Signal St, Ojai

What: Celebrate creativity at the 48th annual Art in the Park on Memorial Day weekend, May 24–25, 2025, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Libbey Park in Downtown Ojai. Hosted by the Ojai Art Center, this beloved open-air festival features a wide range of fine art in a serene, oak-shaded setting. Meet the artists, browse unique works, and enjoy food and a relaxed atmosphere. Free admission.

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Mortgage Rate Update | May 22, 2025

Mortgage rates – Every Thursday Freddie Mac publishes interest rates based on a survey of mortgage lenders throughout the week. The Freddie Mac Primary Mortgage Survey reported that mortgage rates for the most popular loan products as of May 22, 2025, were as follows:

The 30-year fixed mortgage rate was 6.86%, up from 6.81% last week. The 15-year fixed was 6.01%, up from 5.92% last week.

The graph below shows the trajectory of mortgage rates over the past year.

Freddie Mac was chartered by Congress in 1970 to keep money flowing to mortgage lenders in support of homeownership and rental housing. Their mandate is to provide liquidity, stability, and affordability to the U.S.

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Top Donut Spots In Town | L.A. Eats

Los Angeles boasts a vibrant donut scene, with a mix of longstanding family businesses and creative new spots. Whether you crave classic glazed, vegan options, or innovative flavors like custard-filled or taro-based, these 16 shops offer a remarkable variety. Explore the city’s top donut destinations, from the iconic Holey Grail Donuts in Larchmont to the inventive Mochinut in Melrose.

1. Holey Grail Donuts

Location: 148 N Larchmont Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90004
Founded in Kauai from a small trailer, Holey Grail Donuts is now a bustling business in Los Angeles, with backing from Tony Hawk. Enjoy chewy taro-based donuts at their Larchmont and Santa Monica locations. Follow their Instagram for updates on special pop-ups and events.

2. The Donut Man

Location: 915 E Rte 66, Glendora, CA 91740
Since 1972, The Donut Man has been a Glendora staple, famous for its strawberry and peach stuffed donuts. Operating 24 hours a day, these messy treats are a local favorite.

3. Flour Premium Doughnut

Location: 833 S Western Ave #38, Los Angeles, CA 90005
Nestled in Koreatown’s Rodeo Galleria Shopping Center, Flour Premium Donut crafts less sweet, visually appealing donuts with a pillowy consistency. Try the milk cream variety, which sells out fast. Convenient parking is available for LA visitors.

4. Mochinut

Location: 4954 Van Nuys Blvd Ste 109, Sherman Oaks
Mochinut offers a unique blend of traditional donuts and mochi, creating a spectacular result. Known for Korean rice flour hot dogs, bubble tea, and soft serve, this spot has multiple locations across Southern California.

5. Blinkie’s Donuts

Location: 4884 Topanga Canyon Blvd, Woodland Hills, CA 91364
Since 2004, Blinkie’s has delighted SoCal with classic and innovative treats like frosted mango with Tajín. Don’t miss their Crinkies, a nod to the Cronut craze.

6. Memorylook Coffee

Location: 2881 W Olympic Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90006
Famous for its cappuccinos and tea lattes, Memorylook Coffee also offers freshly made donuts in flavors like strawberry cream and matcha brulee, complete with fluffy cream cheese filling.

7. Sweet Retreat Donuts

Location: 924 CA-1, Long Beach, CA 90806
Catering to dairy-free diets, Sweet Retreat offers both vegan yeast and cake donuts. Their experimental flavors and decorations make it a place worth revisiting.

8. Colorado Donuts

Location: 1578 Colorado Blvd #14, Eagle Rock, CA 90041
Colorado Donuts is a destination for traditional and creatively decorated donuts, like those featuring movie characters or stuffed with Twix bars. The store’s recent colorful makeover adds to its appeal.

9. DK’s Donuts & Bakery

Location: 1614 Santa Monica Blvd, Santa Monica, CA 90404
Open since 1980 by Khmer refugees, DK’s Donuts & Bakery is now known for its unique flavors and visually stunning creations, thanks to the innovation of younger family members.

10. Big Jim’s Donuts

Location: 2401 Whittier Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90023
Big Jim’s Donuts has built a loyal following over the years with its traditional donuts and 24-hour service. Located across from Pioneer Chicken, it’s a convenient spot for sweet and savory treats.

11. Amigos Donuts

Location: 6418 Santa Fe Ave, Huntington Park, CA 90255
A family favorite for generations, Amigos Donuts is known for its friendly service and creative offerings during holidays and special events.

12. Dad’s Donuts & Dogs

Location: 2501 W Victory Blvd (at Buena Vista St), Burbank, CA 91505
Visit Dad’s Donuts & Bakery for a dazzling array of donuts, including cake, glazed, twists, and the standout buttermilk, available daily until 9 p.m.

13. Moon Donuts

Location: 1000 Torrance Blvd, Redondo Beach, CA 90277
Known for its custard-filled donuts, Moon Donuts in South Bay has a dedicated following. Arrive early to grab these popular treats before they sell out.

14. Tastees Donut & Burger

Location: 619 N Fair Oaks Ave (Peoria St.), Pasadena, CA 91103
Tastees Donut & Burger captures the essence of Southern California with its friendly service and a menu that includes both burgers and donuts, like the sought-after apple fritters and jalapeño croissants.

15. Primo’s Donuts

Location: 2918 Sawtelle Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90064
For over 68 years, Primo’s Donuts has served generations of donut lovers. Don’t miss their specialty, buttermilk bar.

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Your Weekend Getaway Guide | Out & About

Los Angeles is a city full of life, but sometimes even the most die-hard Angelenos need a break from the hustle and bustle. Fortunately, there are many fantastic road trip destinations within a few hours’ drive. So, pack your bags, fill up your gas tank, and get ready to explore our weekend getaway guide Southern California style!

  1. Santa Barbara Weekend Getaway – The American Riviera (Approximately 95 miles) Travel time: 1.5 – 2 hours

Escape the city and head north to Santa Barbara, a picturesque coastal city nestled between the Santa Ynez Mountains and the Pacific Ocean. Known for its Mediterranean climate, beautiful beaches, and Spanish-style architecture, Santa Barbara is a perfect weekend getaway.

Top attractions:
  • Visit the historic Santa Barbara Mission
  • Stroll along State Street for shopping and dining
  • Enjoy wine tasting in the nearby Santa Ynez Valley
  • Relax at East Beach or Butterfly Beach
  • Discover the Santa Barbara Museum of Art

  1. Palm Springs Weekend Getaway– The Desert Oasis (Approximately 107 miles) Travel time: 1.5 – 2 hours

Venture east into the desert to discover Palm Springs, a city famous for its mid-century modern architecture, vintage shops, and natural hot springs. With plenty of sunshine and a laid-back vibe, Palm Springs is an ideal getaway for those seeking relaxation and a bit of retro charm.

Top attractions:
  • Take the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway to the top of Mount San Jacinto
  • Explore the Palm Springs Art Museum
  • Visit the Moorten Botanical Garden
  • Tour mid-century modern homes and neighborhoods
  • Relax at one of the many luxurious spas

  1. Big Bear Lake Weekend Getaway– The Mountain Escape (Approximately 100 miles) Travel time: 2 – 2.5 hours

If you’re craving fresh mountain air and outdoor adventures, Big Bear Lake is the perfect destination. Located in the San Bernardino Mountains, Big Bear offers an array of activities in both summer and winter, making it an ideal year-round getaway.

Top attractions:
  • Ski or snowboard at Snow Summit or Bear Mountain during winter
  • Hike or mountain bike on the many trails around the lake
  • Rent a boat or kayak and explore Big Bear Lake
  • Visit the Big Bear Alpine Zoo
  • Attend seasonal events like Oktoberfest and the Big Bear Lake Fishing Derby

Whether you’re looking for a beach escape, desert retreat, or mountain adventure, these road trips from Los Angeles have something for everyone. So grab your keys, hop in the car, and embark on a memorable weekend getaway that will leave you refreshed and ready to take on the City of Angels once more.

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Celebrating Memorial Day Weekend | Home Tips

With Memorial Day Weekend approaching, you are likely thinking of ways to celebrate. As we gather to honor U.S. military heroes, marking the occasion can happen at home or out and about. From at-home celebrations to around town happenings, we’ve got plenty of ways to enjoy the “unofficial” start of summer!

Activities at Home

Set up classic yard games to enjoy over Memorial Day Weekend, great old-fashioned fun for people of all ages. You could even get some patriotic trinkets — think almost anything decorated with the American flag — as prizes for the winners. Fun garden games include horse shows, ring toss, cornhole, lawn darts, and bocce ball. You could also invest in a large set of Connect 4, chess, or a tumble tower to bring added fun to your outdoor party.

For a group that loves music and singing, karaoke can be a fun activity to get everyone in a celebratory mood. For Memorial Day Weekend, stick to singing patriotic songs over the mic. There’s a long list to choose from, with something to suit most musical tastes, with songs from, for example, Bruce Springsteen, Dolly Parton, Billy Ray Cyrus, Lee Greenwood, Alan Jackson, and Faith Hill. Karaoke is a great activity for indoor parties, though you can certainly take the singing outdoors too!

Memorial Day Weekend Recipes

There are many delicious Memorial Day meals to look forward to, from an array of grilled meats with a huge assortment of side salads to veggie kebabs, pizza, dips, and fajitas.

Whether you’re having a sit-down meal indoors, a picnic, or a BBQ bonanza, these two suggested recipes are great for bringing a little more patriotism to the table.

People of all ages love cupcakes. So, what could be better than a red, white, and blue cupcake? The swirl-topped vanilla cupcakes are tasty and look fantastic.

Patriotic sugared cherries are so quick and easy to make, yet look so elegant and tempting set out on a platter. The fun delicious treats need just three ingredients: cherries, white chocolate, and blue sugar.

Memorial Day Home Décor

Add a patriotic American flag banner to your home for Memorial Day Weekend, similar to this one from Pottery Barn. Made from Burlap, it’s strong and sturdy enough to survive the elements outside for some time. Hang from your fence, decorate your porch or take it indoors to adorn a wall, mantel, or staircase. If you’re feeling creative, you could also create your own flag-themed bunting from fabric or card.

It’s quick and easy to add splashes of patriotism to the dinner table with stylish fabric napkins in shades of red, white, and blue. They look especially classy when rolled within a complementary napkin ring. You could purchase napkin rings decorated with the classic stars and stripes to take it up another notch. Alternatively, buy paper flag napkins for outdoor dining.

Local Events around LA

If you want to get out and about over Memorial Day Weekend, there are plenty of terrific options around Los Angeles for the whole family.

Check out the LA County Fair for its final weekend and enjoy classic carnival fun. From terrific eats, to face-painting, rides and more, there is something for everyone! 

For the Westside, Fiesta Hermosa kicks off on Saturday, and keep’s the fun going all the way through Monday, May 26. Explore art, enjoy delicious eats, and listen to live music at this Memorial Day weekend long event.

Topanga Days, between May 24 and 26, features a laid-back vibe, music, food, and crafts, and Happy Face Music Festival, on May 28th, has Cajon-Creole music and food, as well as a large area for kids’ fun.

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Economic Update | Week Ending May 17, 2025

Tariffs dominated the news again this week – Over the weekend, the U.S. and China announced that progress has been made on a trade deal. Both countries agreed on a pause on the most restrictive tariffs and to significantly reduce the restrictive tariffs that they have put in place since April 2, so that they can work on future negotiations to finalize a more permanent tariff deal. Stocks soared on Monday and increased in value through the week. Major stock indexes ended the week down just slightly since the start of the year.

Inflation dropped to a 4-year low in April – The Consumer Price Index (CPI) for April was released this week. The annual inflation rate in April dropped to 2.3%, its lowest rate since February 2021. Core CPI, which excludes volatile components like food and energy rose 2.8% year-over-year. The Producer Price Index was also released. Producer prices (wholesale prices) dropped 0.5% month-over-month in April, their largest monthly decline since 2006. Year-over-year producer prices were up 2.4% in April.

The graph below shows the trend of the Consumer Price Index since 2021.

Interest rates – Despite the lowest inflation in 4-years, mortgage rates and bond yields jumped this week. Usually when inflation drops interest rates drop as well. Unfortunately, economists are waiting to see how tariffs will affect future inflation. They believe that even with inflation trending toward acceptable levels, tariffs remain a wild card, and future spikes in inflation are likely.

Stock markets – The Dow Jones Industrial Average closed the week at 42,645.74, up 3.4% from 41,249.38 last week. It is down 4.3% from 44,544.66 on December 31, 2024. The S&P 500 closed the week at 5,958.38, up 5.3% from 5,659.91 last week. The S&P is down 1.4% from 6,040.53 on December 31, 2024. The Nasdaq closed the week at 19,211.38, up 6.9% from 17,972.92 last week. It is down 2.1% from 19,627.44 on December 31, 2024.

U.S. Treasury bond yields increased for the third straight week on tariff fears – The 10-year treasury bond closed the week yielding 4.43%, up from 4.37% last week. The 30-year treasury bond yield ended the week at 4.89%, up from 4.83% last week. We watch bond yields because mortgage rates follow bond yields.

Mortgage rates jumped this week – Every Thursday Freddie Mac publishes interest rates based on a survey of mortgage lenders throughout the week. The Freddie Mac Primary Mortgage Survey reported that mortgage rates for the most popular loan products as of May 15, 2025, were as follows:

The 30-year fixed mortgage rate was 6.81%, up from 6.76% last week. The 15-year fixed was 5.92%, up from 5.89% last week.

The graph below shows the trajectory of mortgage rates over the past year.

Have a Great Weekend!
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Mortgage Rate Update | May 15, 2025

Mortgage rates – Every Thursday Freddie Mac publishes interest rates based on a survey of mortgage lenders throughout the week. The Freddie Mac Primary Mortgage Survey reported that mortgage rates for the most popular loan products as of May 15, 2025, were as follows:

The 30-year fixed mortgage rate was 6.81%, up from 6.76% last week. The 15-year fixed was 5.92%, slightly up from 5.89% last week.

The graph below shows the trajectory of mortgage rates over the past year.

Freddie Mac was chartered by Congress in 1970 to keep money flowing to mortgage lenders in support of homeownership and rental housing. Their mandate is to provide liquidity, stability, and affordability to the U.S.

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From the 2026 BMW iX to the New Airbnb App and More! | Tech News

Don’t miss out on the latest tech news from across the web! This week, we’re rounding up the biggest headlines from the 2026 BMW iX to Airbnb’s new app and more. Read our tech news blog and stay connected!

Apple Tests Eye-Tracking Scroll for Vision Pro Ahead of visionOS 3 Debut

Apple is trialing an eye-tracking scrolling feature for Vision Pro that would let wearers glide through apps by simply looking at screen edges, Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman reports. The tool should work across all native apps and, later, third-party titles, offering a smoother alternative to pinch gestures, Bluetooth mice, and Dwell Control’s slow “gaze-and-hold” method. Gurman says the innovation is part of a “feature-packed” visionOS 3 update likely to be revealed at WWDC 2025, underscoring Apple’s push to make spatial computing more intuitive and fully hands-free for users.

TikTok Boosts Accessibility with AI-Generated Alt Text and High-Contrast Mode

TikTok now auto-generates alt text for photos when creators don’t add descriptions, giving screen-reader users vital context while still letting creators edit or replace the AI captions. A new color-contrast toggle sharpens the foreground color of text, icons, and UI elements, and the app now mirrors a device’s bold-text setting to improve readability. All three features are live in the updated accessibility menu on iOS, Android, and desktop, expanding the platform’s tools for visually impaired users. 

Google Adds “This Week” Deals Section to Restaurant & Bar Profiles in Search

Google is rolling out a “This week” slot in Food & Drink Business Profiles, letting owners post daily specials, happy-hour deals, and event promos that surface right in Search results. Restaurateurs can update the space through Google Posts or auto-sync from Instagram, Facebook, or X, making real-time marketing fast and free. The feature—called “What’s Happening” in the dashboard—debuts for single-location bars and restaurants in the US, UK, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, with wider availability promised later. By inserting timely offers directly under a venue’s profile, Google tightens the link between search visibility and foot traffic, while giving diners a one-stop snapshot of current incentives.  

Eight Sleep Pod 5 Adds Temperature-Controlled Blanket and Built-In Sleep Sounds

Eight Sleep’s new Pod 5 smart mattress system debuts a water-powered, dual-zone blanket. The blanket cools or warms from 55 °F to 110 °F, working in sync with the existing temperature-controlled cover. The updated base now hides surround-sound speakers that stream white noise and Andrew Huberman-guided NSDR meditations. Likewise, the speaker auto-stops when you fall asleep (or can play all night). A new Health Check report in the Eight Sleep app tracks heart rate and breathing, using AI to flag anomalies each morning. Pricing starts at $2,849 for the Core (cover + hub), $4,099 with the blanket, and $6,099 for the full package with speakers and base, plus a required subscription from $199 per year.

2026 BMW iX Refresh Debuts Entry-Level xDrive45, Longer Range, and More Power

BMW’s 2026 iX electric SUV gets a three-trim overhaul. The BMW refresh fixes ride stiffness, boosts range, and adds tech flash. All versions ride on refined suspension and an illuminated grille flanked by slimmer LED headlights. The vehicle’s interior features a plush interior that keeps its expansive BMW curved display. With sharper handling and new wheel choices up to 23 inches, the facelifted BMW iX offers a major upgrade. Likewise, this widens BMW’s luxury EV appeal without short-changing entry-level buyers.

Airbnb App Redesign Adds On-Demand Services, Revamps Experiences and Host Tools

Airbnb’s latest app overhaul extends the platform beyond private home rentals by introducing “Airbnb Services.” The new curated marketplace now includes ten on-demand offerings. These options range from personal chefs and catering to massages, personal trainers, and more. Of course, these offerings are available to anyone, even without booking a stay. Each provider is identity-verified, licensed, and averages 10 years of experience, with entry prices starting under $50. The update also “reimagines” Airbnb Experiences, letting travelers book everything from guided city tours to lucha libre wrestling classes. A new Explore tab surfaces personalized home, service, and experience recommendations. The Trips tab helps plan itineraries, and upgraded messaging now supports photo and video sharing. Hosts get a revamped dashboard featuring an improved reservations tab, enhanced listing management tools, and more! Likewise, these updates will help in streamlining operations while expanding Airbnb’s ecosystem for guests and hosts alike.

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Weekend Events | May 16 – May 18

The weekend has arrived, and it’s time to dive into springtime fun happening around town. From art shows to festivals and more, we have you covered with weekend events. Check out the best activities in your neighborhood from May 16 through May 18. 

Los Angeles Weekend Events | May 16 – May 18 

Outlaw Music Festival

When: May 16 

Where: Hollywood 

What: Willie Nelson & Family, Bob Dylan, Billy Strings, and Sierra Hull bring their all-star country tour to the Hollywood Bowl for one unforgettable night of music.

Street Food Cinema

When: Until September 6 

Where: Various Locations

What: Catch a movie under the stars with Street Food Cinema, a seasonal outdoor series featuring fan-favorite films, gourmet food trucks, and live music from local bands. Held at various dog-friendly venues across L.A. through October, each event offers a unique blend of dining and entertainment—just bring a blanket and check the rotating schedule.

The Music Center’s On the Record: Vinyl Fair

When: May 17 

Where: Downtown LA

What: The Vinyl Fair returns to the Music Center’s Jerry Moss Plaza, transforming it into an open-air record shop with 16 curated vendors, live DJ sets, zine-making, a storytelling lounge, and sound bath sessions. Don’t miss the free mixtape swap—bring your favorites and discover new sounds.

Westside and Beach Communities Weekend Events | May 16 – May 18 

Venice Family Clinic Art Walk + Auction

When: Until May 18 

Where: Venice

What: The Venice Art Walk returns May 9–18 for its 46th year, showcasing works from major artists like Ed Ruscha and Larry Bell to benefit the Venice Family Clinic. Held at 910 Abbot Kinney, the free event features an art auction and special exhibits highlighting post-wildfire resilience and Altadena’s Black artist community.

Paul McCartney: Rearview Mirror

When: Until June 21 

Where: Beverly Hills 

What: Step into the height of Beatlemania at Gagosian Beverly Hills, where 36 rediscovered photographs taken by Paul McCartney himself are on display this spring. Captured between December 1963 and February 1964, the exhibit features candid moments of the Beatles and their fans during one of the most iconic eras in music history.

Beverly Hills Art Show

When: May 17 – May 18 

Where: Beverly Hills

What: Since 1973, Beverly Gardens Park has hosted this beloved art festival each spring and fall. This year, 235 artists will display works from paintings to photography along four blocks of Santa Monica Boulevard. Enjoy free kids’ activities, food trucks, live music, and beer and wine gardens in a vibrant outdoor setting.

San Fernando Valley Weekend Events | May 16 – May 18 

Universal Fan Fest Nights

When: Until May 18 

Where: Universal City

What: Grab your phaser, spellbook, or 20-sided die—Universal Studios Hollywood is throwing an after-hours fandom bash that trades screams for pure geek joy. On select nights through May 18, explore worlds from Star Trek to One Piece, catch Yoshi’s first park appearance, and watch the new “Hogwarts Always” castle show while snagging exclusive merch and bites. Costumes that follow the guidelines are not just welcome—they’re encouraged for this multiverse meet-up.

Silent Films Live IV at Warner Bros. Studios

When: May 17 

Where: Warner Bros. Studios | 4000 Warner Blvd. Burbank

What: Step back in time at Warner Bros. Studios for Silent Films Live IV, a one-night-only concert bringing classic silent films to life with a live performance by the Studio Intensive Orchestra, led by conductor Angel Velez. Held on the iconic Eastwood Scoring Stage, this unforgettable evening features music from top composers and benefits Education Through Music–Los Angeles. Hosted by Suzanne Lloyd and Steve Gainer, ASC. Don’t miss this cinematic celebration of Hollywood’s golden age!

Fruit Trees and California Native Plants: Landscaping Together

When: May 17 

Where: Theodore Payne Foundation | 10459 Tuxford St. | Sun Valley

What: Join Joanna Glovinsky, founder of Fruitstitute, for an engaging workshop on how to grow fruit trees in harmony with native landscapes. Learn how grafted fruit trees differ from native plants, what they need to thrive, and how to balance water-wise gardening with fruitful results. From planting tips to long-term care, this class will help you cultivate a sustainable and productive garden that supports both your trees and the local ecosystem. A must for home growers and eco-conscious gardeners alike!

Conejo Valley Weekend Events | May 16 – May 18 

California Strawberry Festival

When: May 17 – May 18 

Where: Ventura

What: Now in its 39th year, the California Strawberry Festival celebrates all things strawberry at its new home, the Ventura County Fairgrounds. Enjoy over 50 food booths serving everything from strawberry funnel cakes to chimichangas and beer, plus a $5 build-your-own shortcake tent, live music, chef demos, arts and crafts, carnival rides, and Strawberry Land for kids. Proceeds benefit more than 20 local charities.

ArtsFest at Rancho Tapo Community Park

When: May 17 

Where: Rancho Tapo Community Park | 3700 Avenida Simi, Simi Valley

What: Celebrate creativity at ArtsFest, presented by the Rancho Simi Recreation and Park District on Saturday, May 17, 2025, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Rancho Tapo Community Park. Enjoy a day of art, performances, vendors, hands-on activities, chalk art, storytelling, food, and more. Free admission; some activities may have a fee.

Topanga Banjo-Fiddle Contest and Folk Festival

When: May 18 

Where: King Gillette Ranch | 26800 Mulholland Hwy, Calabasas

What: Gather at King Gillette Ranch in Calabasas on Sunday, May 18, 2025, for the Topanga Banjo Fiddle Contest & Folk Festival. Contests kick off at 9 a.m., with performances at noon—plus jamming sessions, workshops, food trucks, artisan booths, and more.

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