Category: feature

Dial into this week’s top tech headlines from across the web. We’re breaking down the stories you won’t want to miss, from Switchbot to Google’s Veo3 and more. Check out this week’s tech news blog!

Threads Lets You Attach 10,000-Character Text Blocks

Threads added a text-attachment editor so posts can include up to 10,000 characters of formatted text beneath a regular post. The feature restores a light blogging capability inside the app and supports bold, italics, and links in the expanded block. Creators can use it to share long-form thoughts or article previews without leaving Threads. Expect more in-app essays and deeper context on the platform. 

Google Photos Launches Veo3 to Animate Camera Rolls

Google Photos debuted Veo3, a free tool that transforms stills into short animated clips directly from your camera roll. Veo3 is aimed at quick social clips and prototypes rather than high-end VFX, with simple controls for refining motion and exports. It makes turning photos into shareable motion content fast and accessible to casual creators. This lowers the barrier for short video storytelling. 

SwitchBot Unveils AI Hub, E-Ink Frame, and Robot Pet

At IFA, SwitchBot revealed an AI hub that runs local automation, an ultra-low-power E-Ink info frame, and a playful robot pet for home companionship. The hub centralizes routines and on-device AI to reduce cloud dependence and speed reactions for smart appliances. The E-Ink frame always gives always-on contextual info without the power draw of LCDs, while the robot pet showcases companion robotics for families. Together, they aim to make smart homes more private, efficient, and charming. 

Amazon’s Project Kuiper Links with JetBlue for In-Flight Internet

Amazon’s Project Kuiper struck a deal with JetBlue to bring Kuiper satellite broadband to passenger planes, promising steadier Wi-Fi on transcontinental routes. The partnership will provide in-flight connectivity through Kuiper satellites where ground networks fall short. Airlines should see improved streaming and services for passengers once installations roll out. It’s a major step toward reliable in-air broadband. 

World’s First Sodium-Ion Power Station Handles Extreme Cold

A commercial sodium-ion power station has proven it can operate in extreme cold, offering a lower-cost alternative to lithium batteries for grid storage. Sodium chemistry uses abundant materials and shows stable discharge and recharge cycles at low temperatures. This tech could reduce storage costs for cold-climate projects and remote installs. Wider adoption would diversify battery chemistry options for energy grids. 

Adobe Premiere Arrives on iPhone as a Free Mobile Editor

Adobe released a free Premiere editor for iPhone, bringing timeline editing, multiclip tools, and Creative Cloud sync to mobile creators. The app supports trimming, color tweaks, and quick exports for social and short-form production. It makes serious mobile editing viable without desktop handoffs for many workflows. Expect faster mobile-to-desktop project continuity for editors on the go. 

Roborock’s Rockmow Z1 Brings Autonomous Mowing to Yards

Roborock launched the Rockmow Z1 robotic mower with smart mapping, zoned mowing, and obstacle avoidance for residential lawns. The Z1 plans efficient routes and reports status via an app, aiming to automate yard maintenance quietly and reliably. It’s a logical extension of robot vacuums into outdoor chores for homeowners who value time savings. Early impressions highlight convenience over manual mowing routines.  

Fall is just around the corner, and that means it’s time to rotate the inhabitants of your garden. Fall plants offer just as much charm as their spring and summer counterparts. But what can you nurture in your garden that screams fall’s warmth, but is still colorful? Here’s a list of the top 10 best fall plants for your garden!

Asters

If you want to bring a little wildflower essence to your fall garden, asters would be a great choice to make. These small daisy-like flowers can be planted at any time of the year and add subtle charm with their blue or purple petals.

If planted in the fall, asters can also be a final source of nectar for pollinators, which are greatly attracted to the plant’s scent.

Autumn Sedum

Autumn sedums bring life to any fall garden with their fresh foliage of star-shaped flowers that either sit in a cluster or spray out to showcase their ever-changing colors throughout the season.

Easy to grow and known for their durability, these fall plants come in a variety of sizes with unique blossoms that begin as pink, develop to bronze rose, and ultimately flourish in deep red.

Chrysanthemums

As the meaning of its name implies, the “golden flower” chrysanthemums originally came only as gold, but now they’re found in a variety of colors from the most vibrant reds to the softest lavenders.

Chrysanthemums are amazing fall plants for any garden because of their balance of youth and maturity, and limitless possibilities of design.

Helenium

Heleniums are simple plants to grow and are a top choice for any garden whether it’s in the planning stages or already in blossom. These lovely flowers range from gold, red and brown, and come in a wide range of styles, and sizes.

Because of these unique traits, Heleniums are more than capable of being the solo plant species in a garden, as it provides a world of interest all on its own with not one bed identical to another.

Marigold

Marigolds are popular garden plants because of their rich blends of yellow to orange and long-lasting bloom.

Active during spring, summer, and the fall, these easy-to-grow flowers offer a bright welcome to many companion flowers, so pairing has little to no hassle. Marigolds also give the overall appearance of any garden an attractive pop that can light up your day.

Pansy

Pansies are a classic spring and fall plant because of their easy care and variety of colors.

These charming flowers are hardier than they appear, able to last up to eight months if planted in the fall. This means you’ll have a colorful array of petals all throughout fall, winter, and spring to bring an endless light to your garden.

Purple Fountain Grass

The purple fountain grass is popular for its beauty and versatility as a centerpiece or sophisticated border. The unique blend of white and purple and the natural, elegant pose of this plant make it a beautiful accompaniment to fall gardens of many arrangements.

The plumes, or feathery seeds at the tips of the flowerheads, can also be used for dried flower arrangements for your home.

Shrub Rose

Shrub roses are hardy fall plants with long-lasting times of bloom and have a natural resistance to disease! Able to be planted from spring to fall, these plants are easy to care. They also require little hassle or later nurturing.

Their color ranges from humble white to eye-catching purple. This makes the garden arrangement a breeze when pairing with your other plants.

Sweet Alyssum

Sweet alyssum is a unique plant in that most varieties fade in the heat.  They thrive in cooler temperatures, such as early spring and all throughout the fall season.

They are a simple plant to grow that blooms quickly and comes in a wide range of colors. A blanket of tiny cross-shaped sweet alyssums would add charm to any garden or landscape.

Viola

Violas are a fast, long-lasting plant that blooms primarily in the cool seasons. They can remain in bloom even during warmer temperatures.

Violas are easy to grow, but self-seed most often. This brings an almost everlasting and colorful resident to your garden no matter the season.

Don’t miss the top headlines from across the web! Stay connected with what’s happening in the world of tech, from iPhone 17 to Google Videos and more – we have you covered. Check out this week’s tech news round-up!

Instapaper Replaces Pocket on Kobo E-Readers

Kobo pushed a free firmware update that swaps Pocket for Instapaper as the built-in read-it-later service, arriving just before Pocket’s data shuts down for good. The change means Kobo owners can continue saving long-form articles directly to their e-readers without a paid Instapaper subscription, and the new integration supports most current Kobo models. Kobo’s move addresses a tangle left by Pocket’s winding down and aims to keep the e-reading workflow seamless for heavy article consumers. Users should apply the firmware update to migrate saved links while they still can and check settings to confirm Instapaper syncing is active. Kobo and Instapaper say the pairing will be maintained and improved, which should reassure longtime Pocket users switching over. 

Honor Refreshes Mobile Line with Magic V5, MagicPad 3, and MagicBook Art 14

Honor launched a new hardware wave, including the Magic V5 foldable, MagicPad 3 tablet, and the MagicBook Art 14 laptop, emphasizing thin designs and flagship specs across the lineup. The Magic V5 touts an exceptionally thin chassis for a foldable and high-refresh OLED panel, while the MagicPad 3 brings tablet improvements aimed at creators; the Art 14 rounds out a light-but-capable laptop option. Honor is leaning into value and polish—offering features like strong battery life and capable cameras while pushing into markets that still want bold hardware experiments. Pricing and regional availability vary, but Honor’s strategy is clear: compete on design and features in crowded device categories. Early hands-on impressions highlight build quality and aggressive thinness as key differentiators for the V5. 

Microsoft Copilot Arrives on Samsung TVs and Monitors, Bringing GPT-5 Power

Microsoft expanded Copilot into Samsung TVs and monitors, embedding AI assistance directly into screens for things like summarizing content, drafting replies, and controlling apps—now powered by GPT-5 and a new Smart Mode that routes queries to the right model automatically. Users can ask Copilot on supported Samsung displays for meeting recaps, recipe steps, or to pull up contextual information without switching devices, and enterprise features land under Microsoft 365 integrations. The move turns the living room screen into a more interactive assistant and reflects Microsoft’s push to make AI omnipresent across surfaces rather than confined to phones or laptops. Privacy controls and admin settings aim to keep enterprise deployments manageable, while consumer versions focus on convenience and entertainment tie-ins. This step broadens where Copilot can be useful and demonstrates Microsoft’s strategy of embedding advanced models into everyday hardware. 

Kwikset’s Halo Select Plus Adds NFC Home Keys and Matter Support

Kwikset updated its Halo Select Plus smart lock to support NFC tap-to-unlock home keys along with Matter compatibility, letting guests use phones or NFC cards for quick entry without complicated app installs. The lock’s Matter implementation promises better cross-platform reliability across ecosystems like HomeKit, Google Home, and Alexa, while NFC keys make short-term access easier for deliveries, cleaners, or guests. Installers will appreciate streamlined provisioning and the option to manage credentials locally or through integrated smart-home platforms. Kwikset’s focus is on convenience plus interoperability—reducing friction for households that juggle multiple smart-home vendors. For people who want simple, secure ways to share access without full user accounts, NFC plus Matter hits a practical sweet spot. 

Google’s Vids Lets Anyone Make AI Avatars and Image-to-Video Clips

Google opened Vids—its AI video tool—to more users, enabling image-to-video and avatar generation powered by Gemini models so creators can transform stills into short motion clips or generate avatar-guided scenes. The feature stitches together visuals, voice, and motion with simple text prompts and lets users refine outputs with additional guidance; it’s meant for quick social clips, mockups, and creative experiments rather than polished film work. Google emphasizes safety guardrails and a moderation layer, but creators should still watch for artifacts and check output fidelity before publishing. Vids lowers the barrier to entry for multimedia content creation, letting smaller teams or solo creators prototype video concepts in minutes. As with many generative tools, expect rapid iteration—improvements to realism and control will arrive fast. 

Apple Sets iPhone 17 Launch Event for September 9

Apple confirmed an iPhone 17 event on September 9, where the company is expected to unveil the new iPhone family. In addition, Apple will potentially announce other accessories or software updates tied to iOS’s next major release. Rumors on the iPhone 17 point to incremental camera, battery, and performance upgrades. Likewise, the iPhone 17 will also likely include deeper AI-driven features baked into the OS. Of course, this continues Apple’s cadence of polishing hardware while layering on software differentiators. The event timing lines up with typical Apple fall launches, meaning preorder windows and ship dates will follow quickly for eager iPhone 17 buyers. Developers and accessory makers should watch for final spec changes for the iPhone 17 and new APIs that may affect app behavior or case design. For consumers, the event will clarify upgrade value and trade-in timing for those weighing a fall iPhone 17 purchase. 

Spotify Rolls Out DMs and Audio Clipboard Sharing to Boost Social Listening

Spotify added direct messages and richer audio-sharing tools so users can send songs, playlists, and short voice clips to each other inside the app—moves aimed at keeping more social music activity native rather than pushed to external chat apps. DMs support text and audio snippets and make collaborative playlisting and discovery feel more conversational and immediate, lowering friction for friends to swap finds. The feature also integrates sharing controls so creators can opt in or out of message-based promos, and Spotify says it’s testing moderation and spam protections. For listeners, it’s a convenience win; for Spotify, it increases time-in-app and creates new engagement pathways that could tie into future social product experiments. Expect iterative tweaks as Spotify balances utility with noise control. 

Labor Day getaways are better when you’re not doom-scrolling your doorbell feed. Below is a chic, practical smart home security tips checklist you can knock out in under an hour—prioritizing account security, Wi-Fi hygiene, and a few low-effort travel moves that make your house look lived-in while you’re poolside.

1) Lock down accounts first (it’s where most break-ins start)

• Turn on multi-factor authentication (MFA) for your camera, alarm, router app, thermostat, garage, and any cloud storage connected to footage. MFA blocks the vast majority of account-takeover attempts and is the #1 consumer recommendation from CISA’s Secure Our World campaign.
• Use strong, unique passwords (ideally via a password manager) for each device/app. Avoid reusing the same credentials across your doorbell, Wi-Fi, and email; federal guidance consistently stresses unique credentials as a primary defense.

2) Give your Wi-Fi a quick hardening pass

• Update your router’s firmware and turn on automatic updates if available. Out-of-date routers are a common weak link; U.S. cyber agencies explicitly urge regular updates and hardware refreshes when devices hit end-of-life.
• Use modern encryption (WPA3, or WPA2-AES at minimum). While you’re in the admin panel, change the default admin username/password, rename the SSID, and disable WPS, UPnP, and remote management—all common attack paths.
• Create a separate “Guest” network and park all IoT on it. Segmentation keeps a compromised gadget (say, a camera or speaker) from pivoting into your laptops and phones. Both CISA and the FTC recommend guest networks to isolate devices and reduce risk.

3) Prep your smart devices for “vacation mode”

• Change any remaining default passwords on cameras, doorbells, thermostats, and hubs. Default creds are widely abused; federal/consumer guidance is unequivocal here.
• Update firmware for cameras, locks, hubs, and the alarm panel before you leave; schedule a quick reboot of IoT devices to clear any resident malware and apply updates cleanly. (Yes, agencies note periodic reboots can help.)
• Set smart lighting scenes that look human: varied times, varied rooms. Pair with motion-activated porch lighting and privacy zones on outdoor cameras to avoid constant alerts.
• Review sharing/guest access. Remove ex-contractors or one-time pet sitters from your alarm and camera accounts; re-invite only the people you actually need.

4) Make your home look occupied (with less data exposure)

• Hold the mail and shipments. Nothing says “no one’s home” like a stuffed mailbox. Use USPS Hold Mail (free for 3–30 days) and pause recurring deliveries.
• Tweak notifications. Keep push alerts for critical sensors (entry, smoke, water leak) and cut the noise on routine events so you’ll notice what matters.
• Delay social posts. Save that pool selfie for when you’re back; broadcasting your location during travel can advertise an empty house.

5) Five-minute router + app tune-up (copy/paste this list)

• Log in to your router: update firmware, confirm WPA3/WPA2-AES, change admin password, disable WPS/UPnP/remote mgmt, and create a Guest SSID.
• Move all IoT devices (cameras, doorbells, thermostats, speakers) to the Guest network.
• In each device app: enable MFA, rotate any weak or reused passwords, and check for firmware updates.
• Reboot your modem/router and key IoT devices to clear memory-resident malware and apply updates.
• Create two lighting scenes (“Weeknight In,” “Weekend Out”) and schedule them for your trip dates.
  

6) Optional—but smart—hardening moves

• Upgrade old hardware (especially routers older than ~5–6 years). Newer models offer better radios, WPA3, and automatic security patches; national guidance encourages upgrading aging gear.
• Harden entry points: set door locks to auto-lock, enable camera privacy zones for neighbors’ property, and verify that video clips are encrypted in transit/storage per the manufacturer.
  

The 10-Point Pre-Departure Check

• MFA on all smart-home apps ✔︎ CISA
• Unique passwords stored in a manager ✔︎ CISA
• Router firmware updated ✔︎ U.S. Department of Defense
• WPA3/WPA2-AES + SSID/password changed ✔︎ CISA
• Guest network on; IoT segmented ✔︎ Consumer Advice
• WPS/UPnP/remote admin off ✔︎ CISA
• Device firmware updated; quick reboots ✔︎ watech.wa.gov
• Smart lighting scenes scheduled ✔︎
• USPS Hold Mail set ✔︎ USPS
• Remove old users; review notifications ✔︎
  

With these smart home security tips, your estate stays polished and protected—so you can enjoy the long weekend knowing your network, devices, and curbside signals are working for you, not against you.

Your weekly update on the major tech news from across the web has arrived. Stay connected with what’s happening in the world of tech, from T-Mobile’s T‑Satellite to Snapchat and more; we have you covered. Check out this week’s tech news round-up!

Snapchat’s “Home Safe” Nudge Keeps Loved Ones Close

Snapchat introduced a “Home Safe” alert that automatically notifies select friends when you arrive home—no GPS stalking, no tapped message, just a gentle check-in. The feature uses Snap Map, only sends one alert, and works only with friends you already share location with—privacy intact, peace of mind delivered. It’s a small, smart tweak that brings reassurance without broadcast oversharing. Because sometimes “I’m home safe” feels best when whispered, yet is deeply appreciated.

Amazon Introduces Lower-Priced Kindle Colorsoft and Kids Combo

Good news for readers who crave color without a premium price tag: Amazon added a new 16 GB Kindle Colorsoft at USD 249.99 and a Kids bundle for USD 269.99. While the Signature Edition still offers extras like 32 GB and wireless charging, these new variants lower the barrier to color display, cozy reading, and vibrant comics—for both adults and little bibliophiles. It’s like giving everyone front-row seats to the colorful Kindle era.

T-Mobile’s T‑Satellite Service Goes Nationwide

T‑Mobile rolled out its Starlink-powered T‑Satellite service across the continental U.S, Alaska, Hawaii, and Puerto Rico. The coverage for the T-Mobile T-Satellite comes at just USD 10/month during its launch phase. The T-Mobile service lets you text—including to emergency 911—and share your location even where cellular towers can’t reach. Picture messaging is on its way for compatible T-Mobile Androids, and T-Mobile Apple support isn’t far behind. No signal? No problem—this is “always connected” for your peace of mind.

Microsoft & Asus’ Xbox Ally Handheld Points Toward a Windows Gaming Future

Microsoft’s new Xbox Ally handhelds — built with Asus — feel like the first serious attempt to marry Xbox’s console UI with Windows-powered handheld gaming. In hands-on tests the device boots into an Xbox full-screen experience that hides much of Windows, making PC games feel more console-like while still allowing access to the desktop when needed. Performance and battery life are solid for the form factor, though reviewers note lingering UI quirks and a few early bugs that should be patched before shipping. Microsoft’s design hints at a broader strategy: a unified Xbox/Windows experience across handhelds, consoles, and PCs that could simplify gaming for mainstream users. The Ally ships later this year, and it’s an important proof-of-concept for Windows gaming on portable hardware.

YouTube Music Celebrates Ten Years with “Taste Match” Playlists

YouTube Music marked its tenth anniversary by launching curated “Taste Match” playlists. The playlists pair listeners with songs and artists tailored to their unique listening profile. The Taste Match feature leans on YouTube Music’s long history of cross-platform signals. Of course, this includes watch history, likes, and playlisting—to surface tracks listeners are statistically likely to enjoy. Playlists are dynamically generated and aim to balance familiar favorites with new discoveries, making them useful both for background listening and for finding new artists. This anniversary update underscores YouTube Music’s continued investment in personalization as a way to differentiate itself in a crowded streaming market. Expect these mixes to evolve as the service learns from more listening signals.

HoverAir’s Aqua Drone Floats, Films, and Tracks with Lighthouse Beacons

HoverAir unveiled the Aqua, a floating 4K drone that can take off from and land on water. HoverAir’s Drone uses a lighthouse-style tracking beacon to maintain subject lock and return accuracy. The Aqua’s buoyant hull and sealed components let it operate in lake and coastal environments. Likewise, the lighthouse accessory improves tracking for long-range shots and autonomous follow modes. It records stabilized 4K video and supports waypoint missions, making it appealing to creators who need cinematic water footage. Early demos show smooth footage and reliable returns, though real-world battery and retrieval logistics will determine its broad appeal. If you shoot a lot of water scenes, Aqua promises a simpler workflow than launching from a boat or shore.