Feed aggregator

Most — but not all — political scientists are deeply troubled by the president's attempts to expand executive power, according to a national survey.

(Image credit: Rebecca Noble)

Nikon Z5 II: two-minute review

The Nikon Z5 II may be the ‘entry-level’ model in the brand’s most recent lineup of mirrorless bodies, but it’s by no means the stripped-down back-to-basics affair that its predecessor was. Nikon has conspicuously taken the body up a notch in terms of performance and features – and, for that matter, price.

It inherits the lion’s share of specs from the outstanding Nikon Zf, and subsequently it’s a fully-fledged hybrid shooter that excels in all but the most extreme of use cases. Notwithstanding its position in the Nikon range, don’t think of this as an entry-level camera – it’s anything but.

The Nikon Z5 II with the Nikkor 24-50mm f/4-6.3 kit lens (Image credit: Future / Alex Whitelock)

At the heart of the Nikon Z5 II is the same Expeed 7 processor that's in the recent higher-end Z-series bodies. Subject detection? Check. Super-sticky 3D tracking? Check. In terms of autofocus, video, and meaningful quality of life changes, this camera blows away the original Z5 in every area.

If I had to nitpick, I would say that the almost 25% price increase over the Z5 is a glaring sore point for this camera. I do, however, think the massive jump in performance makes this camera worth every penny; you pay more, but you also get substantially more camera. If you've been eying up the Zf, but were put off by its hipster charms and questionable ergonomics, then the Z5 II is the clear choice here.

It's also, arguably, the top choice in the entry-level to mid-range full-frame mirrorless market right now. It's carefully placed just below the Z6 III in terms of burst rates and video specs, but compares favorably to the likes of the Canon EOS R8, Panasonic S5 II, and Sony Alpha A7 III. All have their merits, but the Nikon Z5 II offers a compelling blend of price and performance without any glaring compromises. In short, it beats its competitors on either price or specs – it really is well positioned.

The Z5 II forgoes the top LCD panel of the Z6 series (Image credit: Future / Alex Whitelock)

As a stills camera in particular, it's hard to fault the Z5 II. You get a tried-and-tested 24.5MP back-side-illuminated sensor that's capable of excellent results, and 12fps raw capture. I'd also argue that this is one of Nikon's best cameras for JPEG shooters yet, thanks to the inclusion of the handy Picture Control button and support for sharing custom JPEG recipes via Nikon Imaging Cloud.

The video specs are a little weaker considering that 4K 60fps video is cropped, but the Z5 II is still capable of full-width 4K video up to 30fps – that's significantly better than the previous model.

In the rare cases where you need 6K video capture or quicker readout speeds, the Z6 III is likely a worthwhile upgrade. Otherwise, however, the Z5 II is going to be an absolute winner for most users. Sure, it's not a resolution beast like the Z8, nor is it particularly quick like the Z6 III; but the Z5 II is a superb camera in its own right, and one that's going to have mass appeal, even outside the Z-Mount ecosystem.

Nikon Z5 II: price and release date

• The Nikon Z5 II body-only costs $1,699 / £1,599 / AU$2,699
• Zoom kit bundles starting at $1,999 / £1,899 / AU$3,249
• Roughly 25% more expensive than first Z5

At $1,699 / £1,599 / AU$2,699 the Z5 II arrives with a significant price jump over the first-gen model. At launch it’s roughly 25% more expensive than the first iteration, and the price difference is even more glaring considering that the Z5 has hit as low as $999 in the US in recent months.

Judged in terms of specs, however, the Nikon Z5 II is an aggressively priced body. I’ll elaborate more later, but the Z5 II is simply in a different league to its predecessor when it comes to both performance and features, and in my book this quantum leap softens the blow of the price hike significantly.

You could easily compare it to the most recent offerings from Canon R8 or Panasonic S5 II, but I’d argue that the Nikon is the more fully featured camera for the price. The R8, for example, is cheaper at $1,499 / £1,629 / AU$2,489, but forgoes IBIS and a second card slot. The S5 II is more comparable in term of specs, but it’s pricier in the US and UK at $1,999 / £1,699, and the Z5 II inherits the outstandingly refined subject-detect autofocus of the higher-end Z-Mount bodies.

The Z5 II is also well placed to compete with older mid-range models like the Sony Alpha A7 III. Sony’s former hybrid king is still available for new for around $1,799 / £1,679 / AU$2,000, and features a compelling mix of excellent autofocus, extensive lens choices, and specs that still hold up for enthusiast users.

It’s a testament to the A7 III that even in 2025 it remains a competitive choice, but the Z5 II finally gives customers a better option than Sony's seven-year-old camera in this price bracket. Sony’s traditionally killer USPs of autofocus and lens choice are less deadly to rivals now – and the Z5 II also features meaningful quality of life upgrades like a fantastic EVF, flip screen, and excellent IBIS. The Z5 II is so well featured that it’s hard not to recommend it, despite the unfortunate price bump.

• Price score: 4.5/5

Nikon Z5 II: specs Nikon Z5 II: design and handling

• Similar design to the Nikon Z6 III
• Fully articulating display
• Picture Control button for JPEGs

Despite the Z5 II’s internal similarities to the Zf, outwardly the two cameras couldn’t be any more different. Nikon has returned to its modern design language with the Z5 II, and like its predecessor it essentially shares the same body as the most recent higher-end Z6 model, aside from that camera’s top LCD panel.

The Z5 II’s design is typically Nikon. It’s function over form, although the brand has made subtle tweaks compared to its previous generation of cameras. For one, the body is slightly thicker, and Nikon has also made a few changes to the EVF housing, which now sweeps around to the generously sized Z mount on the front. It’s a blink-and-you’ll-miss-it change, but the camera looks more modern for it.

The button layout is essentially the same as on the previous model, but there are some changes. The playback button and sequential shooting menu have been switched, for example, and there’s now a handy ‘Picture Control’ button to quickly access JPEG settings. Either way, everything is in the right place, and if you’re already a Nikon shooter you’ll feel right at home. Notably the grip remains the same; chunky, with plenty of purchase for when you're using larger Z-mount lenses.

Image 1 of 4

The new Picture Control dial is situated next to the PASM dial (Image credit: Future / Alex Whitelock)Image 2 of 4

The Nikon Z5 II features mic, headphone, USB, and micro HDMI ports (Image credit: Future / Alex Whitelock)Image 3 of 4

The new fully articulating screen on the Z5 II (Image credit: Future / Alex Whitelock)Image 4 of 4

(Image credit: Future / Alex Whitelock)

As on the Z6 III, the top and back plates are made of a sturdy magnesium alloy, and you also get the large and bright EVF that’s typical for Nikon cameras. The EVF is the same 3.69k dot OLED panel as on the previous model, although Nikon says it can now reach up to 3,000 nits of brightness.

Perhaps the most meaningful design change for the Z5 II is the inclusion of a fully articulating display. Previously, the Z5 only featured a tilting display, so it’s nice to see the inclusion of a flip screen that’s particularly useful for talking-head scenarios. There’s some debate around whether a tilting screen is still superior, but I much prefer the fully articulating option personally in terms of versatility. Not only do you get that selfie and talking-head option, but the flip-out screen is great for getting low-angle shots in portrait orientation, plus it isn't partially obstructed by the viewfinder for waist-level shooting like the previous screen.

Image 1 of 2

The Nikon Z5 II's EVF housing is chunkier than the previous model (Image credit: Future / Alex Whitelock)Image 2 of 2

(Image credit: Future / Alex Whitelock)

Ports-wise, the Z5 II features micro a HDMI port, plus headphone and microphone jacks, and USB-C with charging support. Unlike some budget models from the competition, notably the Canon R8, the Z5 II also features two card slots. You get support for two UHS-II cards here rather than the CFExpress Type-B combination that’s common on Nikon’s higher-end bodies, but it's still a fantastic inclusion for an entry-level camera. It’s also a nod to the Z5 II’s intended enthusiast target market, since the supported cards here are much cheaper than the CFExpress cards.

I'm grasping at straws to find a valid criticism of the Z5 II's design, but there are a few minor quibbles. The PASM dial, for example, doesn't feature the usual locking mechanism you find on higher-end bodies. It's a minor thing, yes, but it's easy to knock the dial out of your mode of choice, and it seems like an easy thing to rectify. Otherwise, the Z5 II is almost perfect in terms of function for a modern body.

• Design score: 4.5/5

Nikon Z5 II: features and performance

• Inherits subject-detection autofocus from high-end bodies
• Now shoots 4K 30fps footage uncropped
• 12fps burst for raw / 30fps JPEG with pre-capture

The previous Z5 was an entry-level camera through and through. It was capable of capturing lovely images, sure, but pedestrian autofocus performance and lesser specs meant it was best consigned to rather sedentary subjects.

The Z5 II, however, is a significant leap in terms of performance. With an almost identical specs sheet to the mid-range retro-bodied Nikon Zf, the Z5 II is in a completely different class to its predecessor.

There’s really no other way to express it: the Nikon Z5 II is just a superb camera for the vast majority of applications. The 24.5MP back-side-illuminated sensor in combination with the Expeed 7 imaging processor means the Z5 II is an extremely capable body regardless of the price tag.

Readout speeds, while not up to the level of the Z6 III with its stacked sensor, are dramatically better now. The Z5 II supports raw burst rates up to 12fps versus its predecessor’s pedestrian 5fps. If you’re happy to go with JPEGs, then you can crank that up to 30fps, with additional support for pre-capture.

Image 1 of 2

The 24.5MP back-side-illuminated sensor at the heart of the Nikon Z5 II (Image credit: Future / Alex Whitelock)Image 2 of 2

The Nikon Z5 II now supports custom user JPEG profiles (Image credit: Future / Alex Whitelock)

Video specs have also been improved significantly. The Z5 II now features full-width 4K footage at 30fps instead of the 1.7x crop of the Z5, and you also now get support for advanced formats like 12-bit N-RAW and 10-bit N-Log. Technically, the Z5 II can capture 4K at 60fps, but its 1.5x crop means it's still far behind the higher-end Z6 III when it comes to hybrid capabilities.

The two cameras do, however, share a lot of DNA, particularly when it comes to autofocus. The Z5 II inherits the various person, animal, and vehicle subject-detection capabilities from the higher-end Z Mount cameras, and is all the better for it.

Especially when compared to the older Z5 and Z6 models, the subject-detection autofocus is multitudes more effective here in all scenarios. On previous Z-mount bodies I was accustomed to having to manually steering the camera via tracking points or defined AF areas, but that’s not the case with the Z5 II.

Image 1 of 2

The Nikon Z5 II has received a subtle redesign (Image credit: Future / Alex Whitelock)Image 2 of 2

The Z5 II is a little thicker than the first (Image credit: Future / Alex Whitelock)

In testing, I found myself shooting with full-area continuous autofocus in the vast majority of scenarios, simply letting the camera do its thing. The Z5 II has no issues picking out people, birds, eyes, and moving subjects in crowded or otherwise demanding scenes. 3D tracking is also significantly stickier now, which is handy for the rare occasions when subject-detection fails.

In terms of price relative to performance, it’s extremely hard to fault the Z5 II here. Sure, it’s not the quickest camera from Nikon, or the prettiest, but it’s an extremely capable body that’s perfect for a wide range of users. The Z5 II really is a versatile camera that’s going to be a fantastic tool for the vast majority of enthusiast shooters.

• Features and performance score: 4.5/5

Nikon Z5 II: image and video quality

• 24.5MP back-side-illuminated full-frame sensor
• Now supports custom JPEG recipes
• Internal 12-bit N-RAW and 10-bit N-Log video

The Z5 II’s sensor is a known quantity by now. It’s a sensor that’s been knocking around in Nikon cameras in some form or another since 2018. That’s by no means to its detriment, though, since this 24.5MP back-side-illuminated sensor is capable of providing incredible results across a wide range of subjects and scenarios. You could say it’s an old favorite, even.

I have a fair amount of experience with this particular sensor, having shot with the older Nikon Z6. So I was immediately at home with the Z5 II’s output, and I’m pleased to note that it’s more than capable of producing detailed images with pleasing color straight out of the camera. It’s hard to fault a sensor this good – there really aren’t any limitations aside from the relatively middling 24.5MP resolution limiting cropping potential in the most extreme circumstances.

Image 1 of 5

Images shot with the 24-50 and 24-200mm kit zoom lenses (Image credit: Future / Alex Whitelock)Image 2 of 5

All images straight out of camera JPEG using the auto profile (Image credit: Future / Alex Whitelock)Image 3 of 5

(Image credit: Future / Alex Whitelock)Image 4 of 5

(Image credit: Future / Alex Whitelock)Image 5 of 5

(Image credit: Future / Alex Whitelock)

If you can live with ‘just’ 24MP, then you’ll find the Z5 II’s output excellent – JPEGs in particular are fantastic. The image stabilization is rated at an impressive 7.5 stops – this sensor was already known as a low-light beast, but the image stabilization really adds to the camera’s night photography credentials.

Looping back to the Z5 II’s excellent JPEG output, it’s worth mentioning just how Nikon has significantly upped its game with the Z5 II. The camera now supports the new Nikon Imaging Cloud, which unlocks a much smoother image upload workflow and the seamless sharing of image recipes a la Fujifilm.

Given that my processing app of choice (Adobe Lightroom) didn’t support my pre-production Z5 II’s raw output, I quickly found myself tinkering with numerous JPEG presets. Switching between presets is extremely easy thanks to the dedicated Picture Control button on the top of the camera, and the interface also enables you to tweak various settings like sharpness, contrast, and clarity.

Image 1 of 6

The Nikon Z5 II tracks subjects perfectly even in low-light scenarios (Image credit: Future / Alex Whitelock)Image 2 of 6

Shot with the Viltrox 85mm f/1.8 prime lens (Image credit: Future / Alex Whitelock)Image 3 of 6

(Image credit: Future / Alex Whitelock)Image 4 of 6

(Image credit: Future / Alex Whitelock)Image 5 of 6

(Image credit: Future / Alex Whitelock)Image 6 of 6

(Image credit: Future / Alex Whitelock)

If I have a complaint, it’s that the various in-camera JPEG sliders are still rather basic, and the default profiles lack the polish of the likes of Fujifilm. The Nikon Z5 II, however, has a secret weapon in that it can store up to nine additional custom color profiles from the NX Studio app. This app fully supports color grading and other advanced options, so it’s perfect for really tailoring your JPEGs to match your raw workflow.

I imported a few presets onto my Z5 II, and was instantly able to get some superb results right out of the camera. The process is extremely smooth, and Nikon’s excellent in-camera retouch options easily allow you to test out your profiles on the various raw files already saved to your card.

Below are a few images showcasing what's possible with these in-camera presets.

Image 1 of 3

JPEG images shot using an Ektar film inspired recipe (Image credit: Future / Alex Whitelock)Image 2 of 3

More 'Ektar-esque' JPEG images (Image credit: Future / Alex Whitelock)Image 3 of 3

One of Nikon's own profiles called 'charcoal' (Image credit: Future / Alex Whitelock)

These presets can also be used for in-camera color grading, although advanced videographers will likely want to make use of the camera’s new internal N-Raw and N-Log formats for maximum flexibility and dynamic range. Generally speaking, video output is excellent here – especially with the oversampled 4K footage at 30fps.

If the Z5 II has any weaknesses when it comes to video, they're generally down to the sensor's middling readout speeds. Aside from the 1.5x crop at 4k 60fps you also get some rolling shutter when panning quickly, as with most bodies without a stacked sensor. If you want a more fully-featured and modern video platform, it could be worth investing in the higher-end Nikon Z6 III.

While we’re here, it’s worth mentioning the number of excellent lenses that are ready to pair up with the Z5 II. While the Z-Mount supports plenty of high-end glass, even modest choices like the Nikkor 24-50mm f/4-6.3 kit lens are capable of providing great results. My favorite lenses for the Nikon Z5 II in particular are the super-lightweight Nikkor 40mm f/2 and Viltrox 85mm f/1.8, both of which are great lower-cost lenses that pair perfectly with the Z5 II.

Most of the example images you can see here were shot with either those two lenses or the Nikkor 24-200mm f/4-6.3 zoom, which is another kit option for the Z5 II.

• Image and video quality score: 4.5/5

Nikon Z5 II: testing scorecard Should I buy the Nikon Z5 II? Buy it if...

You want a great-value all-rounder
The Nikon Z5 II is fantastic jack-of-all-trades camera for a competitive price. It's a great choice if you want something that nails both photo and video without breaking the bank.

You're looking to upgrade
If you're already shooting with an older Z-mount body or even a Nikon DLSR then there's a strong argument for upgrading to the Z5 II. The autofocus in particular provides a massive jump in performance over the older bodies, even the higher-end Z6 II.

Don't buy it if...

You want a retro design
The Nikon Z5 II is almost identical to the Nikon Zf when it comes to performance and specs, so the latter is the obvious choice if you prefer a more retro look.

You need advanced video features
The Z6 III provides more headroom in terms of high-resolution video with its support for 6K/60p N-RAW.

You need resolution
The Z5 II's 24.5MP sensor isn't a high-resolution beast like the higher-end cameras in Nikon's lineup. If you need massive cropping potential there's the older Nikon Z7 II, pricier flagships, or look elsewhere.

Nikon Z5 II: also consider Panasonic Lumix S5 II

The Lumix S5 II is another competitively priced full-frame body that offers a viable alternative to the Nikon Z5 II if you're looking for something more video-centric. The S5 II is capable of open-gate 6K / 30p recording at 10-bit, which gives it the edge for resolution and cropping video. That said, the Z5 II is cheaper at full list price, and inherits the outstanding autofocus from the higher-end Nikon Z-Mount bodies.

Read our in-depth Panasonic Lumix S5 II

Nikon Zf

On paper the Nikon Z5 II and Nikon Zf are extremely similar cameras in terms of performance. In form, however, the two couldn't be more different, with the Zf sporting a gorgeous retro design. If you'd prefer the same specs in a more classic, nostalgia-themed body, the Nikon Zf is the obvious choice. Expect to pay a little extra for the pleasure though.

Read our in-depth Nikon Zf

How I tested the Nikon Z5 II

(Image credit: Future / Alex Whitelock)

• Nikon loaned me the Z5 II and some lenses for two weeks
• I tested it with the 24-50mm and 24-200mm kit zooms
• I also used the Nikon 26mm and 40mm and Viltrox 85mm primes
• I carried the camera daily, testing its video and photo capabilities
• I shot over 1,000 images with the camera

I used the Nikon Z5 II as my everyday camera over a two-week period, which gave me the chance to shoot more than 1,000 images and videos. I was able to test the subject tracking, low-light performance, and image stabilization effectively thanks to using the camera in a diverse range of environments, both indoors and outdoors.

Nikon sent me the Nikkor 24-50mm and f/4-6.3 Nikkor 24-200mm f/4-6.3 zoom kit lenses to try, as well as the Nikkor 26mm f/2.8. I also made sure to use the camera with a third-party lens, in this case the Viltrox 85mm f1/.8.

First reviewed April 2025

At issue is whether school systems are required to allow parents to opt their kids out of classes because of religious objections to classroom materials.

(Image credit: Chip Somodevilla)

Federal workers who help resolve complicated problems for Affordable Care Act policyholders are among those recently cut by the Trump administration.

(Image credit: Rebecca Blackwell)

30 artists release songs with nature sounds to generate royalties for nature conservation in second annual United Nations Earth Day mixtape

(Image credit: Poyenchen, Andrew Quinn)

Ahead of the 98th Oscars ceremony, scheduled for March 2026, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has made its first official rule regarding the use of generative AI in films.

This follows a controversial 2024 season that saw Best Picture finalist The Brutalist (and, to a lesser extent, co-nominee Emilia Perez) come under fire for its use of AI to alter actor performances and create architectural drawings.

As recommended by the Academy’s Science and Technology Council, this new rule states:

"With regard to Generative Artificial Intelligence and other digital tools used in the making of the film, the tools neither help nor harm the chances of achieving a nomination. The Academy and each branch will judge the achievement, taking into account the degree to which a human was at the heart of the creative authorship when choosing which movie to award."

The new guidelines come alongside three other notable rule changes and additions:

• The Academy has established its first official rule on generative AI
• The organisation says its use will "neither help nor harm the chances" of a film achieving an Oscar nomination
• While arguably the safest position, it leaves the door open to further controversies

• Academy members must now watch all nominated films in each category to be eligible to vote in the final round for the Oscars.
• The new Achievement in Casting award will be awarded from 10 nominees.
• Countries will be able to nominate films that were creatively controlled by “citizens, residents, or individuals with refugee or asylum status”.

The price of perfection

Faced with the choice to take a stand against generative AI or allow its controlled use, the Academy has landed on a rule that is decidedly neutral and does little to change the current status quo.

While the Academy taking the safe route is hardly surprising, it arguably ignores Hollywood’s history of always being at the forefront of embracing new technology – and at a time when the use of AI in filmmaking is becoming increasingly common.

It’s not the first instance of film critics and commentators coming out swinging against AI. 2023's Late Night with the Devil was condemned by some for its use of AI to generate a handful of still images that only appeared onscreen for a few seconds, but while it was one of the year’s best horror films it was perhaps no huge surprise that it didn’t receive any Oscar nominations – horror films rarely do.

Conversely, a more serious historical drama based on a true story, such as The Brutalist, was sure to receive attention from the Academy, putting extra eyes on its use of AI.

(Image credit: A24)

While it received 10 Oscar nominations, it’s hard not to feel that the film’s chances at winning Best Picture (which it ultimately lost to Anora) were unfairly tarnished due to its use of AI – although the fact that Adrien Brody went on to win Best Actor for his role in the film does somewhat undermine that notion.

That's because Brody’s AI-enhanced performance is at the centre of the backlash this film has received. Unlike French, English or Australian accents, which have all been poorly performed too many times to count, Hungarian vowel sounds are reportedly notoriously difficult – even for Brody, whose mother is Hungarian.

So, while Brody and co-star Felicity Jones tried their best to offer an authentic accent during filming, with the actors’ permission editor Dávid Jancsó ultimately opted for an AI tool to achieve perfection.

Whether Brody’s win hinged on that enhancement is impossible to say, but it's clear Academy voters were happy with this particular trade-off.

Where do we draw the line?

AI isn't going away anytime soon, and in certain ways – like the voice enhancement in The Brutalist and Emilia Perez – it offers a subtle enhancement to the authenticity of an actor’s performance.

That doesn't necessarily make its use right, though. One could argue that an actor shouldn't be cast if their singing isn't up to par for a musical.

If authentic Hungarian is a must, maybe hire a Hungarian actor – or, if you need the starpower of an Adrien Brody, perhaps audiences would favor the earnestness of an actor's performance versus technical accuracy.

Hollywood workers have made no secret of their worries surrounding AI and its potential impact on jobs. The use of AI in the writing process was one of the biggest issues raised during the 2023 Writers Strike.

(Image credit: Mario Tama/Getty Images)

It undoubtedly would have sent a powerful message if the Academy barred the use of AI in films outright, but that's honestly an unrealistic expectation in 2025.

But, while it's pleasing to see the Academy taking into account "the degree to which a human was at the heart of the creative authorship", it’s hardly a clear, measurable rule for how AI can and can't be used – and leaves the door open to future controversies.

AI won't be going away anytime soon – but as much as you can expect it to pop up more, we’ll undoubtedly see more films carrying disclaimers that proudly state no AI was used in their production, as found in the end-credits of Hugh Grant's horror outing Heretic.

The Academy may have pushed the problem under the carpet, but with AI’s growing influence it's unlikely we've seen the last rule change.

You might also like...

• From novelty to nuisance: The AI revolution no one wanted is sweeping all before it
• AI took a huge leap in IQ, and now a quarter of Gen Z thinks AI is conscious
• We’re locked inside a creative bubble, will AI burst it or throw away the key?

The course is in beta now, but will be available to everyone in a few months.

The biggest challenges facing Channel stakeholders include performance concerns, as there's an ongoing desire for the latest technology and a perception that refurbished tech is inferior. Revenue is also a factor, as companies profit from selling new equipment and need to adapt to offering sustainable services.

Education remains crucial, as there's a need for a significant shift in consumer behavior from buying new to embracing the circular economy and considering the full product lifecycle, including disposal.

Increased environmental pressures and government legislation are driving demand for Channel stakeholders to explore new ways they can reduce their carbon footprint and tackle e-waste. With the Technology Channel placing sustainability near the top of its list of priorities, businesses are responding by automating roles, utilizing electric vehicles for logistics and reducing e-waste headed for landfills.

Channel operators should be adopting the ‘Repair, Rework, Reuse’ model, which aims to extend IT hardware lifecycles and reduce the carbon footprint of technology wherever possible. Through the development and implementation of robust sustainability initiatives, vendors, distributors, resellers and MSPs can play a leading role in helping to create a more circular economy and minimize e-waste.

What key strategies, policies and procedures should be adopted to meet net zero targets?

Developing a robust strategy is essential for Channel businesses to bolster their net zero, carbon offsetting and sustainability goals. Companies that aim to create a comprehensive e-waste strategy must align their initiatives with environmental regulations and industry standards while striving to minimize the impact of their operations on the environment.

To create a concise strategy, Channel organizations must analyze their current operations - from sourcing components to end-of-life disposal - to minimize waste generation at each stage of the supply chain. The importance of this was revealed in our recent Sustainability report, with 36% of respondents already implementing initiatives to become more sustainable, and a further 37% looking to roll out strategies within the next 12 months.

Businesses need to create a plan that aligns with their future growth trajectory and the impact that this will have on emissions. With that in mind, the best option is to reduce the carbon intensity of their operations by establishing reduction strategies and mobilizing infrastructure change. This can take effect across a number of areas in an organization, most predominantly in the business’ supply chain, which links back to the company’s scope 3 emissions.

Channel operators must also consider measures to extend the life of hardware beyond the typical manufacturer lifespan, whilst ensuring the necessary quality standards and warranties are met. By repairing, reworking and reusing IT hardware, organizations can also reduce their carbon footprint and that of customers, whilst reducing cost.

How can vendors build e-waste initiatives within their partner programs?

Consumers and businesses across the Channel sector are waking up to the importance of Environmental, Social and Corporate Governance (ESG) with supply chain transparency, sustainable finance and renewable energy sources and materials all key to helping industries meet their net zero, carbon offsetting and sustainability goals.

Vendors are now incorporating e-waste initiatives in processes to help streamline operations and boost efficiency for Channel partners. This not only enables significant environmental savings, but also an economical one for Channel partners and their end user clients.

By delivering white label maintenance, engineering services’ solutions and break-fix maintenance, Channel vendors can enable partner organizations to benefit from cost-effective, multi-vendor hardware maintenance services. This mitigates the need to dispose of mass hardware, allowing partners to extend product life cycles and reduce their carbon footprints through dedicated platforms like EcoVadis and by creating strategies internally, like a sustainability dashboard.

How is sustainability influencing customers and purchasing decisions?

It’s not for everyone – some customers are still very focused on price. Others see sustainability as a nice to have but would not be willing to pay considerably more. However, we are starting to experience a shift for ESG credentials to form part of the tender process, up to 30% of the total scoring for a partner in some cases. Also the frequency of being asked about sustainability is increasing.

As Channel vendors continue to scale their respective operations, they must consider their ESG strategies and goals and how best to meet the demands of customers, environmental legislation and compliance. They can also improve their sustainability approach by automating roles, utilizing electric vehicles for logistics and reducing electrical and electronic waste headed for landfills.

By investing in sustainable strategies, Channel partners gain a competitive edge, enabling them to improve business growth and strengthen stakeholder and consumer relationships while adhering to their sustainability principles.

How can data be leveraged to better understand and manage problems?

For Channel firms wanting to make their supply chain more sustainable, the process of collecting and sharing data is often seen as a key challenge. However, once the hard work of data collection is done, it is hugely beneficial for evaluating an organization's ESG performance.

Channel businesses, like many others, are relying heavily on data and analytics to make crucial business decisions. While this is seen as efficient, if decisions are being made based on data that is unreliable and inaccurate, the impact it can have could be huge. Accurate data collection is essential for tracking Scope 3 emissions, yet just 10% of the companies with under 100 employees surveyed for our research said they prioritize managing customer sustainability goals.

By leveraging digital solutions to aid visibility and transparency of both supply chains and in line with required sustainability metrics, companies can expect to deepen engagement with their customers, reduce risk and create trust with their supply chain stakeholders. Just as importantly, sustainability practices and corporate responsibility can deliver a positive impact both inside and outside of the business long term.

We've reviewed the best business computers.

This article was produced as part of TechRadarPro's Expert Insights channel where we feature the best and brightest minds in the technology industry today. The views expressed here are those of the author and are not necessarily those of TechRadarPro or Future plc. If you are interested in contributing find out more here: https://www.techradar.com/news/submit-your-story-to-techradar-pro

The nationwide drugstore chain must pay the government at least $300 million and will owe another $50 million if the company is sold, merged, or transferred before 2032, according to the settlement.

(Image credit: Nam Y. Huh)

Harvard University announced Monday that it has filed suit to halt a federal freeze on more than $2.2 billion in grants after the institution said it would defy the Trump administration's demands to limit activism on campus.

(Image credit: Charles Krupa)

Khalil has been held in Louisiana since ICE agents arrested him in New York over his pro-Palestinian activism. He instead experienced the birth by phone.

(Image credit: Mary Altaffer)

Here are the answers for The New York Times Mini Crossword for April 22.

• ChatGPT's o3 model scored a 136 on the Mensa IQ test and a 116 on a custom offline test, outperforming most humans
• A new survey found 25% of Gen Z believe AI is already conscious, and over half think it will be soon
• The change in IQ and belief in AI consciousness has happened extremely quickly

OpenAI’s new ChatGPT model, dubbed o3, just scored an IQ of 136 on the Norway Mensa test – higher than 98% of humanity, not bad for a glorified autocomplete. In less than a year, AI models have become enormously more complex, flexible, and, in some ways, intelligent.

The jump is so steep that it may be causing some to think that AI has become Skynet. According to a new EduBirdie survey, 25% of Gen Z now believe AI is already self-aware, and more than half think it’s just a matter of time before their chatbot becomes sentient and possibly demands voting rights.

There’s some context to consider when it comes to the IQ test. The Norway Mensa test is public, which means it’s technically possible that the model used the answers or questions for training. So, researchers at MaximumTruth.org created a new IQ test that is entirely offline and out of reach of training data.

On that test, which was designed to be equivalent in difficulty to the Mensa version, the o3 model scored a 116. That’s still high.

It puts o3 in the top 15% of human intelligence, hovering somewhere between “sharp grad student” and “annoyingly clever trivia night regular.” No feelings. No consciousness. But logic? It’s got that in spades.

Compare that to last year, when no AI tested above 90 on the same scale. In May of last year, the best AI struggled with rotating triangles. Now, o3 is parked comfortably to the right of the bell curve among the brightest of humans.

And that curve is crowded now. Claude has inched up. Gemini’s scored in the 90s. Even GPT-4o, the baseline default model for ChatGPT, is only a few IQ points below o3.

Even so, it’s not just that these AIs are getting smarter. It’s that they’re learning fast. They’re improving like software does, not like humans do. And for a generation raised on software, that’s an unsettling kind of growth.

I do not think consciousness means what you think it means

For those raised in a world navigated by Google, with a Siri in their pocket and an Alexa on the shelf, AI means something different than its strictest definition.

If you came of age during a pandemic when most conversations were mediated through screens, an AI companion probably doesn't feel very different from a Zoom class. So it’s maybe not a shock that, according to EduBirdie, nearly 70% of Gen Zers say “please” and “thank you” when talking to AI.

Two-thirds of them use AI regularly for work communication, and 40% use it to write emails. A quarter use it to finesse awkward Slack replies, with nearly 20% sharing sensitive workplace information, such as contracts and colleagues’ personal details.

Many of those surveyed rely on AI for various social situations, ranging from asking for days off to simply saying no. One in eight already talk to AI about workplace drama, and one in six have used AI as a therapist.

If you trust AI that much, or find it engaging enough to treat as a friend (26%) or even a romantic partner (6%), then the idea that the AI is conscious seems less extreme. The more time you spend treating something like a person, the more it starts to feel like one. It answers questions, remembers things, and even mimics empathy. And now that it’s getting demonstrably smarter, philosophical questions naturally follow.

But intelligence is not the same thing as consciousness. IQ scores don’t mean self-awareness. You can score a perfect 160 on a logic test and still be a toaster, if your circuits are wired that way. AI can only think in the sense that it can solve problems using programmed reasoning. You might say that I'm no different, just with meat, not circuits. But that would hurt my feelings, something you don't have to worry about with any current AI product.

Maybe that will change someday, even someday soon. I doubt it, but I'm open to being proven wrong. I get the willingness to suspend disbelief with AI. It might be easier to believe that your AI assistant really understands you when you’re pouring your heart out at 3 a.m. and getting supportive, helpful responses rather than dwelling on its origin as a predictive language model trained on the internet's collective oversharing.

Maybe we’re on the brink of genuine self-aware artificial intelligence, but maybe we’re just anthropomorphizing really good calculators. Either way, don't tell secrets to an AI that you don't want used to train a more advanced model.

You might also like

• ChatGPT o1 goes live and promises to solve all our science and math problems
• Happy 2nd birthday, ChatGPT! Here are 5 ways you've already changed the world
• ChatGPT Tasks can start taking over your calendar and remind you to finish your to-do list

Hints and answers for the NYT Connections: Sports Edition puzzle, No. 211, for April 22.

The Education Department says millions of borrowers in default will have a chance to make a payment or sign up for a repayment plan. But on May 5, those who don't will be referred for collection.

(Image credit: Al Drago)

Kaleidescape may not be a household name, but most home theater fans will have at least some familiarity with the company’s movie players and servers, which provide the highest-quality alternative to the best 4K Blu-ray players.

In case you’re not familiar with Kaleidescape, its systems let you download movies for purchase or rental from an online storefront with a comprehensive library, and in some cases, new titles not yet available from other online services like Amazon or Apple TV. The picture quality of Kaleidescape downloads is equivalent to 4K Blu-ray, with support for both Dolby Vision and HDR10 high dynamic range formats, along with lossless Dolby Atmos and DTS:X soundtracks.

A typical Kaleidescape system can be pricey, but over the past year, the company has expanded its product line with a lower-cost standalone 4K movie player, the Kaleidescape Strato V, plus an even cheaper 2K model, the Strato M. Those releases demonstrate that the company is looking to expand its reach into new markets, and also to give existing Kaleidescape owners options for expanding their systems outside of a dedicated home theater driven by the best projectors.

The Kaleidescape Strato V combines a movie player with built-in 960GB SSD storage – enough to hold ten 4K movies at a time (Image credit: Future)

The most recent news from Kaleidescape is an announcement of its membership in the 8K Association, an industry group dedicated to accelerating the adoption of 8K content and 8K TVs.

In a company press release, Kaleidescape chairman and CEO Tayloe Stansbury characterized the alliance as one that “positions Kaleidescape alongside other industry leaders, committed to fostering a collaborative environment, and dedicated to the advancement and standardization of 8K technology.”

Stansbury further stated, “As consumers demand larger screens, higher-fidelity and increasingly immersive experiences, Kaleidescape’s involvement in the 8KA will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of premium home cinema.”

A fighting chance for 8K?

Samsung's new QN990F series 8K TVs include a 98-inch size option (Image credit: Future)

Looking at the current TV market, it’s impossible to ignore that set manufacturers have a lukewarm relationship with the 8K format. Until recently, new 8K TVs were a regular thing, but only one company, Samsung, has announced new 8K models for 2025 (the Samsung QN990F and Samsung QN900F).

Projectors supporting 8K have also been slow to emerge, with only two consumer models, the JVC DLA-NZ9 and JVC DLA-NZ8, currently available.

An 8K TV can be priced almost twice as high as an equivalent 4K model, but the main reason why the 8K TV market hasn’t really taken off is a lack of 8K content. You can find some 8K – mainly eye candy travelogues – on YouTube, but there isn’t a better online source for streamed 8K content such as documentaries, concert videos, or movies.

An 8K disc format isn’t technically out of the question, but there’s been no commercial advancement on that front since 8K TVs first appeared. Also, physical disc sales, 4K Blu-ray included, have been steadily declining, falling below $1 billion for the first time in the US in 2024.

Given that trend, the outlook for an 8K disc format is grim to nonexistent. That’s why Kaleidescape’s 8K Association announcement is intriguing – the company has the technical infrastructure to make 8K downloads possible, and its business model means that content can be delivered without the high compression levels that make the best streaming services inferior to 4K Blu-ray Disc.

Another good omen for 8K is Kaleidescape’s customer base, which is comprised of high-end home theater enthusiasts willing to pay for the highest quality presentation possible. Many of those customers also use either video projection systems or ultra-large screen TVs, and the added detail provided by 8K can be appreciated on such displays.

Samsung’s new QN990F series 8K TVs are available in a 98-inch screen size. An 8K TV that large deserves actual 8K content, and with Kaleidescape’s announcement, there’s new hope that more and better 8K content could be coming.

You might also like

• 8K TVs were supposed to be the next big thing – what happened?
• Samsung’s new 98-inch 8K mini-LED makes 8K TVs finally make sense
• Welcome to TechRadar’s Home Theater Week 2024

Borrowers who are behind risk having their wages garnished. Here's what the experts recommend doing right now.

Pope Francis died of a stroke on Easter Monday, according to the Vatican. He was one of the most popular pontiffs in decades, taking stances on the inclusivity of the church as well as treatment of the poor and migrants. We look back on the life and the papacy of the first non-European pope in more than a millennium.

(Image credit: Alberto Pizzoli)

On Monday morning in Rome Cardinal Kevin Farrell Camerlengo or Cardinal Chamberlain of the Holy Roman Church announced the death of Pope Francis I.

That was followed some 17 hours later by the rite of ascertainment. A formal acknowledgement of Francis' death...and the transfer of his body to his coffin.

And it's one a few of the many centuries-old rituals that will play out over the next several days as the church mourns Pope Francis.

There will be the mourning of the faithful as Francis' body lies in St. Peter's Basilica. A funeral, where Francis will be remembered by his fellow priests, followers and world leaders. Then, the Conclave where the College of Cardinals will meet to choose his successor.

Pope Francis has died at 88. Now the church has to chart a course without his leadership. Who will be his successor, and what path will he choose?

For sponsor-free episodes of Consider This, sign up for Consider This+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org.

Email us at considerthis@npr.org.

(Image credit: Peter Macdiarmid)

The agency has reportedly been instructed to turn most of its focus to big banks.