Category: feature

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.

Your weekly update on the major tech headlines from across the web has arrived. Stay connected with what’s happening in the world of tech, from the Pixel 10 to Hisense MiniLED TV and more, we have you covered. Check out this week’s tech news round-up!

Google Sets the Stage for Pixel 10: Event on August 20

Google officially announced a Pixel launch event for August 20. Likewise, the event is expected to bring the Pixel 10 family — including a Pro and a Pro XL — and possibly a Pixel 10 Pro Fold demo. The teasers promise bigger screens, brighter displays. In addition, the rumored Pixel 10 would have a new Tensor G5 chip under the hood for improved AI features and battery efficiency. Leaks ahead of the event hint at Qi2 wireless-charging support and new Pixelsnap magnetic cases, signaling Google wants Android to close the gap on magnetic accessory ecosystems. With wearables and earbuds likely to join the show, this is shaping up to be a full-stack moment for Google hardware. If you like phones that double as pocket-sized assistants, tune in next week. 

Hidden Door Makes AI Storytelling That Feels Like Play

Hidden Door launched in early access this week — an AI-powered, choose-your-own-adventure platform that corals creative chaos into coherent, playable stories. Instead of the free‑for‑all of early AI text games, Hidden Door uses structured worlds (think Wizard of Oz or Pride and Prejudice) and guided choices to keep narratives meaningful and fun. It blends tabletop-style mechanics — character creation, dice rolls, curated plot beats — with generative text, which makes it feel part game, part collaborative fiction lab. The result is a remarkably approachable way for players to co-write stories without the nonsense that often derails open-ended models. For brands and creators hunting for new audience experiences, it’s a tidy example of AI tooling that adds craft, not chaos. 

Hisense Ships a 116‑Inch RGB MiniLED TV That Demands a Room

Hisense announced availability for its gargantuan 116‑inch TriChroma RGB MiniLED TV, a full‑on color‑science showpiece priced in the premium theater bracket. The RGB MiniLED approach—separate red, green, and blue LEDs—lets the set hit much wider color gamuts and deeper blacks than typical MiniLEDs, which matters for serious creatives and cinephiles. Retail price lands around $30,000, and a slightly smaller 100‑inch model offers a cheaper entry point for those with home‑theater ambitions. If you’re furnishing a media room and want cinematic color without an inkjet projector, this is the kind of hardware that changes the conversation. For the rest of us, it’s still lovely to admire from across the living room. 

Microsoft’s Copilot Now Turns 2D Photos Into 3D Assets (Copilot 3D)

Microsoft quietly rolled out a Copilot 3D feature that converts 2D images into GLB-format 3D assets, making basic 3D content creation more accessible to designers and small studios. The tool is free to try and plays nicely with common design workflows, exporting a 3D file you can drop into viewers, engines, or AR scenes—handy for mockups or rapid prototyping. It’s not perfect (animals and complex human forms remain spotty), but the speed and convenience lower the barrier to entry for immersive content creation. Expect iterative improvements that make this a go-to for quick 3D needs, especially for ecommerce and education teams. Consider it Copilot doing the heavy lifting for depth, so you can stay focused on the creative spark. 

ULA’s Vulcan and Ariane 6 Keep the Launch Cadence Alive

This week saw major orbital activity as ULA’s Vulcan and Europe’s Ariane 6 both completed notable missions—an encouraging sign for the commercial launch market and national launch capabilities. These flights underscore how many providers are scaling up reliable access to space, which in turn fuels more demand for satellite services, Earth observation, and low-latency global communications. For North American tech, dependable launch cadence means faster iteration for space‑based startups, cheaper rides for payloads, and more opportunities for cloud-and-edge companies to build on orbital platforms. The ripple effects are quiet but substantial: better connectivity, more sensor data, and a richer ecosystem for space-enabled applications. Treat this as infrastructure news—rockets are simply the new fiber. 

TikTok Adds Family‑Pairing Safety Tools for Teens and Parents

TikTok expanded its Family Pairing suite with new safety and well‑being features that let guardians set controls and receive usage nudges for teen accounts. The updates include more granular permissions, content time limits, and tools to steer teens toward positive experiences while preserving independence. For marketers and creators, the changes mean cautious optimism—platform health improves, and so does long‑term ad inventory quality when younger users are protected. For families, it’s a small but meaningful effort to make a hyperactive app slightly less fraught. The broader trend is clear: major platforms are investing in safety-first defaults, which is good for communities and brand trust alike.