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Updated: 42 min 41 sec ago

3 box office hits are leaving Prime Video soon – here’s how I’d prioritize your watchlist

Fri, 08/29/2025 - 10:00

Let's be honest. When movies leave your favorite streamer, some of them will be missed more than others – so when Rappin' leaves Prime Video in just under a week from now, there probably won't be people openly crying in the streets.

But while you can probably live without Mario Van Peebles showing his neighbors "how to drive out riffraff with rap music", there are some real gems leaving Prime Video at the end of this month and there are three in particular I think are must-watch movies.

For my picks this week I've tried to cover a wide range of movies, and I think it's fair to say that other than their impressive Rotten Tomatoes ratings these films don't exactly have much in common: there aren't many killer clowns in the literary biopic Capote or the urgent, suspenseful The Taking of Pelham One Two Three. But all three movies are guaranteed to entertain, albeit in very different ways.

Capote

Philip Seymour Hoffman is superb as the titular writer, and this dramatization of real events follows Truman Capote as he investigates the murder of a Kansas family. The big-city writer travels to small-town America with his friend, Harper Lee, and his research into the case and the friendship he forms with one of the killers lead to the creation of one of the classics of American literature, 1965's In Cold Blood.

The movie has a very high 89% rating from the Rotten Tomatoes critic roundup, and it comes with high praise from The New York Review of Books: "Capote is the only movie I know of that comes close to suggesting successfully what the complex process of creating a literary work actually looks like."

The Village Voice rated it too (no link available), saying: "Capote is a cool and polished hall of mirrors reflecting the ways in which Truman Capote came to write (and be written by) In Cold Blood." And Empire gave the movie the full five stars. It's "an outstanding film, anchored by a great central performance."

Terrifier 2

This is unlikely to appear in a double bill with Capote, but Damien Leone's slasher sequel has a whopping 87% rating from critics with strong stomachs. Once again Art the Clown targets teenagers in a small town, and over its two-plus hours the film delivers a stylish and genuinely frightening horror story.

This is not a movie for the faint hearted. "Skip dinner before you watch," LA Weekly recommends, "and maybe shower and then go do something nice for humanity afterward?" And HorrorBuzz was cautious in its praise, saying: "Mae West was once quoted as saying, 'Too much of a good thing can be wonderful!'. Here it depends entirely on how you felt about the first Terrifier."

But even Common Sense Media was won over. "The heinous Art the Clown returns in this intensely gory sequel that tries much harder – and is much smarter – than the original movie."

The Taking of Pelham One Two Three

This classic thriller was remade, largely unsuccessfully, as a Denzel Washington vehicle in 2009. But the one you want is the 1974 original starring Walter Matthau, which is currently sitting with an entirely deserved 98% on Rotten Tomatoes. It's the story of an audacious crime: four men get on a New York subway train, separate the carriage and hold 17 passengers hostage. If their demands aren't met, they'll shoot a hostage every hour.

Matthau's "wonderfully weary sense of irony is perfect," says The Hollywood Reporter, while the late Roger Ebert told Chicago Sun-Times readers that "What's good about Pelham's example of the form is that the performances are allowed enough leeway so that we care about the people not the plot mechanics. And what could have been formula trash turns out to be fairly classy trash, after all."

As Empire put it, it's "the kind of gritty, relentless thriller that could only come from the ‘70s" and it's influenced lots of culture: "Quentin Tarantino would later nick the criminals using colors as codenames gambit for Reservoir Dogs; the Beastie Boys reference it in the song Sure Shot."

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Categories: Technology

Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang says talks with Trump to allow chips into China will take time

Fri, 08/29/2025 - 10:00
  • Nvidia’s China-specific H20 chips are off-sale, but scaled-down Blackwell chips could be approved
  • China is a $50 billion opportunity for Nvidia, with potential for 50% annual growth
  • China may not want to buy Nvidia chips over supposed security risks and US comments

Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang said that discussions with the US Government on allowing scaled-down Blackwell GPU sales to China have started, but it could take time to reach a deal.

According to Reuters reporting, Trump indicated that Nvidia could sell a less powerful version of Blackwell to China that’s 30-50% less capable than the regular version.

However, the White House fears that even stripped-down AI chips could support China’s military and technological strength, hence the delays that Nvidia is facing with regards to a decision.

Nvidia may be able to start selling low-performance Blackwell chips in China again

Huang estimates that China represents a $50 billion opportunity for Nvidia, potentially growing 50% annually if access to sell chips in the country is allowed. For a company with $46.7 billion in quarterly revenue, that’s a considerable opportunity.

Nvidia had already made the H20 AI chip for China to meet Biden-era export restrictions, but that got banned over security concerns when Trump came to power. Sales of the H20 in China are still on pause, but at an expense to Nvidia which is losing out on billions in sales.

In the meantime, China has been promoting the use of domestic chips to plug the gap left by stalled Nvidia sales. The country has also reportedly been asking local firms to avoid Nvidia’s chips, citing security risks.

China’s reluctance to buy Nvidia chips could be heightened further following comments from US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, who said the plan is to make China addicted to American tech.

On the flip side, Huang argues that enabling American companies to sell AI chips in China helps the US set the standards and win the global race.

Nvidia recently posted a 56% year-on-year rise in quarterly revenue, noting a lack of H20 sales in China and a $180 million release of previously reserved H20 inventory from around $650 million in unrestricted H20 sales.

Huang commended Blackwell’s performance gains, adding that Blackwell Ultra production “is ramping at full speed.”

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Categories: Technology

A reliable leaker claims that there will be a PlayStation 6 handheld with one of my favorite Nintendo Switch 2 features

Fri, 08/29/2025 - 09:55
  • A PlayStation 6 handheld is reportedly on the way
  • The information comes from a reliable hardware leaker
  • The handheld will allegedly be like the Nintendo Switch 2 and compatible with a dock

A reliable hardware leaker claims that Sony is working on a handheld version of the PlayStation 6, and it sounds an awful lot like a Nintendo Switch 2.

This information comes from the YouTube channel 'Moore's Law is Dead', which has previously accurately detailed PlayStation hardware ahead of its official reveal.

The handheld will allegedly be powered by an AMD system on a chip (SoC) codenamed 'Canis'. The leaker claims that Canis will feature four Zen 6c cores and two Zen 6 Low Power cores for running system tasks.

This apparently will be paired with a 16x Compute Unit RDNA 5 GPU.

Interestingly, the leaker says that the handheld will be compatible with a dock - one of my favorite features of the Nintendo Switch 2. In handheld mode, its GPU will run at 1.2GHz, which is then boosted to 1.65GHz when docked, to presumably support a higher output resolution.

They also speculate on the potential price, arguing that it will be around $500 in order to compete with the Switch 2.

Given the high cost of other Sony hardware, I think this price prediction might be a little far-fetched, but we'll just have to wait and see.

In related news, the company recently revealed a slate of pricey Ghost of Yōtei PS5 hardware and announced that it would be increasing the price of the console by $50 in the US.

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Waiting for the Steam Deck 2 rather than buying an Asus ROG Xbox Ally? Rumor suggests you'll need to be very, very patient

Fri, 08/29/2025 - 09:48
  • A rumor claims the Steam Deck 2 may not be here until 2028
  • However, this feels like tentative speculation for a couple of reasons
  • It's entirely possible that we might be in for a long wait for the Steam Deck sequel, though

The Steam Deck 2 might not arrive until 2028, or that's the latest theory floating down from the rumor mill regarding the sequel to Valve's handheld.

KitGuru noticed that Kepler has again dropped another rumor via the Neogaf forums (there've been a few hardware-related nuggets this week), and it's a very short and not-so-sweet revelation that: "Steam Deck 2 is 2028".

The comment came in a post that's actually about the Asus ROG Xbox Ally, when somebody commented about buying one of those - the portable arrives in October - weighed against the prospect of Valve bringing out something better in the near(ish) future.

Kepler quickly put paid to the idea that the Steam Deck 2 might be even remotely on the horizon. If the leaker is correct, we are going to be waiting three years for the next take on Valve's gaming portable - with it arriving six years after the original Steam Deck debuted - but that is, of course, a significantly sizeable if as I'll discuss next.

(Image credit: Future)Analysis: Speculation drawn from AMD, not Valve?

Obviously, this is just a rumor, and the nature of it - a throwaway one-liner in a forum post - should give more than a brief pause for thought.

As KitGuru points out, Kepler probably didn't tap a Valve contact for this info - though we don't know that for sure, it seems likely to be the case. This is because Kepler primarily deals in GPU (or CPU) rumors and so the likelihood is that they're basing this on information drawn from an AMD roadmap - which pertains to the expected chip to be used as the engine of the next Steam Deck.

So, that makes this speculation feel a littler shakier, but that said, Kepler has proved to be one of the more reliable leakers for GPU info - so I wouldn't dismiss this nugget out of hand, by any means.

Valve is already rumored to be working on a Steam Deck 2 - which is hardly a surprise - but seemingly the development road could be a long one. Back in 2023, a year after the Steam Deck launched, the expectation was a next-gen version of Valve's handheld wouldn't arrive for a few years from then - meaning people were hoping for 2026, not 2028.

If this rumor is true, what it also indicates is that Valve is planning on making the Steam Deck 2 a huge uplift with performance, with a much beefier SoC inside - the hardware available in 2028 is going to be a lot beefier, of course. And that aligns with previous chatter suggesting the company doesn't want an incremental release with the sequel to the Steam Deck, but a big stride forward.

All that said, I would underline that we should be very cautious around this speculation for now.

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Categories: Technology

More DJI Mini 5 Pro leaks suggest it will set the bar for ultra-lightweight drones, for a tantalizing price

Fri, 08/29/2025 - 09:29
  • Fly More Combo contents and Euro pricing seemingly unearthed
  • Launch accessory list also revealed
  • DJI Mini 5 Pro is expected to officially launch in September

As the rumored DJI Mini 5 Pro launch looms ever closer, what was one a steady stream of leaks has become more like a raging torrent.

This week has seen lots of interesting information spill out of the online rumor mill. For starters, there’s the emergence of a new video animation apparently showing the ultra-lightweight drone folding and unfolding, as posted on X (formely Twitter) by trusted drone tipster Jasper Ellens.

Unexpectedly the #Mini5Pro #Flymore might cost exactly the same as the current #Mini4Pro. Also, this video was found in DJI Beta software today hinting on a mid-September release? Let's break down these leaks: https://t.co/UbE9bldXeV Cheers! pic.twitter.com/18r6QbuHCqAugust 26, 2025

Ellens has also found evidence, hidden in the code of certain European web stores and posted on his website DroneXL, that points at the pricing for the DJI Mini 5 Pro Fly More Combo bundle. At €1129, it’s exactly the same as the current retail price for the DJI Mini 4 Pro Fly More Combo – which is great news considering the Mini 5 Pro seems set to offer quite an upgrade over its predecessor. (For reference, the current US and UK prices for the Mini 4 Pro Fly More Combo are $1758 and £979 respectively.)

Previous rumors strongly point to the Mini 5 Pro coming with on-board LiDAR and a camera with a 1-inch sensor – two major feature bumps over what’s been available on previous models in the Mini series.

Plus points

The DJI Mini 4 Pro has decent battery life – but the Mini 5 Pro may support much longer flight times (Image credit: DJI)

Ellens then followed up those leaks with yet another, tweeting out an image of what appears to be the retail packaging DJI Mini 5 Pro Fly More Combo itself – or, rather, the Fly More Combo Plus. This bundle apparently includes the RC 2 controller and three Flight Battery Plus units, each of which provide enough power for up to 52 minutes of flight.

A retail box image seems to show the DJI Mini 5 Pro #drone packaged with the @DJIGlobal RC 2 controller featuring a built‑in screen, reinforcing ongoing leak coverage from DroneXL’s #DJIRumors hub and reporting from @JasperEllens.https://t.co/88YCMGiANNAugust 28, 2025

It seems likely that buyers will have a choice between a regular Fly More Combo featuring standard batteries, and this one, which offers more flight time. It’ll be interesting to see if these Plus batteries are heavier and increase take-off weight beyond the magic 250g limit. My guess is that they will, and thus won’t be of much use to buyers who want to take advantage of the reduced paperwork and restrictions surrounding ultra-lightweight drones.

Packaging doesn’t usually emerge until very close to launch, so if this leak is genuine, I’d expect DJI to be officially announcing the Mini 5 Pro in the next few weeks. With a mid-September release date rumored, we may have confirmation of all the drone’s features, specs and price very soon.

  • DJI Mini 5 Pro rumored specs
  • 1-inch image sensor supporting up to 4K 120fps video
  • 24mm lens with f/1.8 aperture
  • 48mm medium telephoto shooting mode
  • Gimbal supporting 225º movement, including vertical shooting
  • Forward-facing LiDAR and omnidirectional infrared vision sensors
  • 36-minute battery life
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Categories: Technology

The XDO blueprint: a guide to enterprise Agentic AI implementation

Fri, 08/29/2025 - 09:26

In today’s technology landscape, AI is a key catalyst driving innovation and new business models. What began as basic text and image generation has evolved into sophisticated agentic AI, autonomous systems enhanced by human oversight, delivering scalable, efficient solutions that give businesses a competitive edge.

If we look back over the decades, virtual assistants such as Amazon's Alexa and Apple's Siri were primarily designed as single-skill tools. Their functionalities were often limited to specific commands, such as playing music, setting reminders, or providing basic information.

While groundbreaking at their inception, these virtual assistants operated within clearly defined parameters, lacking the ability to integrate information across different domains or perform complex reasoning. Their utility, though significant, was circumscribed by their specialized nature.

However, the current trajectory of AI development points towards a profound shift, the emergence of autonomous agents that are now being embedded into the enterprise fabric agents. These advanced AI systems are designed to process and synthesize information from various sources, allowing them to tackle more complex assignments and engage in nuanced interactions.

This transition is not merely an incremental improvement but a fundamental redefinition of AI's potential, enabling agents to understand context, anticipate needs, and even learn from interactions to enhance their performance over time. This leap in capability allows for a more fluid and intuitive user experience, bridging the gap between isolated functions and integrated problem-solving.

Consumer and enterprise AI

The broader world of AI can be broadly categorized into two principal domains, each with distinct applications and implications:

Consumer AI: Everyday AI, like ChatGPT, found in personal devices, boosts individual productivity and convenience. However, these are largely reactive tools that require user prompts.

Enterprise AI: Business-focused AI, optimizing operations, decision-making, and automation across industries. Examples include AI for healthcare diagnostics, financial fraud detection, or manufacturing predictive maintenance. It aims to create efficiencies and competitive advantages.

The distinction between consumer and enterprise AI, while useful for categorization, is becoming increasingly blurred as AI technologies mature and become more interoperable. The advancements in natural language processing and machine learning, initially driven by consumer demand, are now finding profound applications in enterprise settings, and vice-versa.

This synergistic development is accelerating the overall progress of AI, paving the way for even more sophisticated and integrated AI agents capable of navigating the complexities of both our personal and professional lives.

Agentic AI reframes the AI landscape by moving beyond traditional consumer and enterprise applications toward autonomous decision-making systems that act with purpose and context.

It's vital to recognize these distinct verticals and manage expectations accordingly. A common pitfall in enterprise AI is the assumption that business tools will function with the same seamlessness as consumer AI.

This “expectation gap” necessitates adjusting our approach to integrating these technologies into enterprise settings. Understanding this distinction is fundamental to defining a clear roadmap for agentic AI adoption in the business world.

Embracing the XDO blueprint for enterprise implementation

For effective agentic AI implementation in an enterprise context, the XDO Blueprint is highly recommended:

X (Experience): AI's primary purpose should be to enhance human experiences. This includes improving customer experience, employee experience, partner experience, and even machine-to-machine interactions within connected systems.

D (Data): Enterprises can only leverage AI effectively if they thoroughly understand and manage their data. A significant obstacle is that enterprise data is often siloed within applications. Organizations must prioritize separating data from applications, defining metadata, and structuring their data catalogues, marketplaces, and contracts efficiently.

O (Operations): This encompasses two broad areas: IT Operations: AI agents can significantly automate IT tasks, from problem detection and correction to fulfilling requests and deploying resources. They bridge the gap between humans and machine data, generating valuable insights.

Business Operations: Agentic AI can drive autonomous, intelligent operations, leading to unprecedented efficiency and agility. It can transform workflows, decision-making, and customer experiences, enabling proactive adaptation and strategic growth. Without this framework, agentic AI risks becoming merely another underutilized tool in the enterprise arsenal.

The importance of agentic orchestration

Given the regulatory and governance frameworks under which businesses operate, orchestration is critical. Unlike deterministic business processes, agentic systems are inherently probabilistic.

Companies will soon contend with a growing number of AI agents from diverse vendors, built on various technologies. The challenge extends beyond mere deployment to orchestrating these agents across the entire enterprise.

While many SaaS companies are pushing AI agents and enterprises are developing their own on hyperscaler platforms, current AI orchestration solutions often focus on managing only their proprietary agents.

The real need is for enterprise-wide orchestration, connecting disparate subsystems and ensuring AI-driven processes function seamlessly across the entire business.

Companies that adopt the XDO approach, linking experience, data, and operations, are more likely to achieve effective agentic AI implementation.

We've featured the best AI chatbot for business.

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

Categories: Technology

The true cost of cyber attacks

Fri, 08/29/2025 - 09:17

So far this year, M&S, Co-op, Cartier, Harrods and most recently, LVMH, have become victims of cyber attacks. While these events involving big name brands have captured headlines, they’re not the only ones.

New research has revealed that over half of UK businesses have experienced a cyber attack in the past three years alone, proving no organization is beyond the reach of cybercriminals. More startlingly, they’ve suffered a staggering £64bn loss in direct and indirect costs as a result.

As the cyber landscape continues to evolve, AI continues to democratize attacks, cyber groups become more entrepreneurial, and attacks from hostile nation states escalate, that figure is only set to rise.

Reports suggest M&S singlehandedly suffered a £300m profit loss due to the attack on its systems carried out by ScatteredSpider. This must serve as a warning to others. Businesses of all types must act to minimize the devastating impact attacks can have on business growth. Because it doesn’t matter how big or well-known you are. Everyone is at risk.

Shifting from a reactive to proactive cybersecurity strategy can help organizations stay ahead of evolving threats. The investment can mitigate the need to pay out potentially huge sums of money in the wake of the attack, and what’s more, there’s proof it has a positive impact on turnover.

Under preparation increases cyber costs

The rise of AI, increased exposure to international threats and the emergence of Cybercrime-as-a-Service (CaaS) are making the cyber landscape more challenging than ever.

The growing threat of attack methods like ransomware, phishing and supply chain attacks continue to impact businesses of all sizes. Despite this, businesses are often reluctant to implement advanced security measures due to initial high costs involved.

While these costs do initially appear steep for businesses with stretched budgets and other pressing priorities, they pale in comparison to the potential fallout of a cyber attack. The average cost of an attack can reach £721,000 for small to mid-size enterprises (SMEs) and run into the millions for large businesses. For SMEs in particular, this cost can be crippling.

Despite these potentially devastating costs, nearly half of UK businesses still admit to managing cybersecurity fully in-house. But faced with evolving and highly sophisticated threats, a fully in-house approach lacks the external expertise that is vital for keeping pace with cybercriminals.

Resiliency is a cyber must-have

Another major financial challenge for businesses is soaring cyber insurance premiums. But, it has to be said that they are a necessary investment in today’s threat landscape. In fact, the Cyber Security and Resilience Bill, due to be implemented in the second half of 2025, will require businesses to demonstrate cyber resilience, of which comprehensive cyber insurance is a crucial component. With the new bill coming into effect imminently, businesses must prioritize attaining proper insurance sooner rather than later.

And yes, premiums can be high. But having the right cyber protection in place can help to drastically reduce them. In fact, personal experience has shown that implementing measures like an extended detection and response (XDR) platform, multi-factor authentication and vulnerability scanning, can lead to a reduction in insurances premiums of up to 75%.

Cybersecurity as a revenue driver

More UK businesses are considering cybersecurity a strategic priority, with 77% planning to increase their cyber budget over the next year, and for good reason. On average, UK businesses generate an estimated £27bn in additional revenue annually from investing in cybersecurity.

While well-established and widely known brands can rectify the reputational damage breaches can cause, for smaller or less well-known companies, a negative reputation could be devastating. You cannot put a price on reputation.

So, by implementing measures like expert-managed solutions and robust threat detection, businesses can not only reduce their own cyber risk, but prove strong cyber credentials. As customers become increasingly cyber aware, this can now we a deciding factor in winning new business over competitors.

What’s more, outsourcing cybersecurity is cited by 68% of businesses to improve information technology (IT) systems in efficiency, increased performance and reduced IT downtime. Nearly half of respondents also said robust cyber security infrastructure had enabled them to take on more risk such as entering new markets or adopting emerging technologies.

Previously only viewed as a protection measure, businesses are gradually adopting the mindset of strong cybersecurity ultimately boosting streams of revenue and internal efficiencies, providing benefits beyond ‘simple’ security.

As cyber threats evolve, cybersecurity must as well

Reactionary cybersecurity can cost more than 10 times as much when recovering from an attack as businesses would spend on proactive measures.

By implementing cybersecurity, businesses can maximize efficiency, enhance customer trust and position themselves for sustained competitive advantage in an increasingly digital economy.

Early investment carries immense financial and operational benefits, but businesses must be well supported and educated on the necessary cyber measures to suit their specific business needs.

Cybersecurity is evolving as the threat landscape continues to be a growing concern. For some businesses, adopting cyber measures to protect against perceived threats is not enough and only by shifting mindset to see security as a revenue driver will UK businesses fully adopt the necessary measures.

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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

Categories: Technology

Hackers are distributing a fake PDF Editor loaded with TamperedChef credential stealing malware

Fri, 08/29/2025 - 09:13
  • At least five Google ads campaigns were running, promoting spoofed software
  • Someone trojanized different PDF editors to deliver infostealers
  • Defenders are warning about the TamperedChef infostealing malware

Be careful when downloading a program called “AppSuite PDF Editor” - there are poisoned variants circulating around the web.

In late June, security researchers Truesec saw multiple websites, all spoofing the program, being published. At the same time, at least five different Google ads campaigns were set up to promote the websites.

Therefore, whoever searched for ‘AppSuite PDF Editor’ could have ended up on one of the many sites that were serving a trojanized version of the app. Those that downloaded it would get the usual installation process and user license agreements prompts in the foreground, while in the background, an infostealer and backdoor called TamperedChef was being deployed.

PDF Editors loaded with malware

What makes this malware particularly sinister is the deceptive delay with which it operates. It will wait for approximately 56 days before activating, most likely to give threat actors enough time to distribute the infostealer to as many victims as possible, before being spotted by the defenders.

"The length from the start of the [ad] campaign until the malicious update was also 56 days, which is close to the 60-day length of a typical Google advertising campaign, suggesting the threat actor let the ad campaign run its course, maximizing downloads, before activating the malicious features," Truesec said.

In the meantime, it will achieve persistence via Windows Registry modifications, and will create different scheduled tasks. Once activated, TamperedChef can collect browser credentials, session cookies, and other sensitive data, mostly by terminating browser processes and exploiting Windows Data Protection API (DPAPI).

It also performs system reconnaissance to detect which antivirus or malware protection tools the victim is running, and can function as a backdoor to deploy additional malware.

AppSuite is not the only PDF editor being spoofed in this campaign, either. PDF OneStart, and PDF Editor, have all been observed abused in the same (or adjacent) campaign.

Via The Hacker News

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Trust as a competitive advantage: A data privacy expert's perspective

Fri, 08/29/2025 - 09:09

Data is the cornerstone of successful modern businesses. From tailored marketing messages to personalized customer experiences, data-driven strategies have dramatically reshaped the competitive landscape.

However, the flip side of these advances is increasing scrutiny from customers over privacy concerns. The fundamental challenge facing businesses today is how to leverage valuable customer insights without eroding the trust that’s essential for long-term customer relationships.

Trust isn't just an ethical imperative, it is a tangible business advantage. According to a 2023 PwC survey, 87% of consumers say they would abandon brands that mishandle their personal information. Conversely, businesses that excel in transparency about their data practices are more likely to experience increased customer loyalty and stronger brand reputation.

Here’s how your organization can build and maintain customer trust in this delicate balancing act between personalization and privacy:

Make transparency a core principle

One of the simplest yet most impactful steps a business can take is to communicate clearly and transparently. Avoid drowning customers in legalese-heavy privacy policies. Instead, provide straightforward explanations:

- Use everyday language to explain clearly how and why customer data is collected.

- Clearly outline the benefits customers receive when they share data.

- Provide easy-to-understand visual aids or summaries alongside detailed privacy documents to improve understanding.

Research from the University of Michigan indicates simplified privacy disclosures significantly boost consumer understanding, satisfaction, and trust.

Practice thoughtful data minimization

Customers become wary when companies request unnecessary information. Implementing thoughtful data minimization can alleviate this concern:

- Continuously question whether each piece of collected data directly contributes to improving customer experience.

- Regularly review data collection practices to eliminate unnecessary or outdated requests.

- Minimize tracking technologies to essential functionalities.

Reducing data collection to the bare minimum simplifies security and compliance, lessens customer apprehension, and enhances your brand’s reputation.

Empower customers with real choices

Today’s consumers expect genuine control over their data. Surface-level control mechanisms no longer suffice. Instead:

- Create intuitive privacy preference centers allowing customers granular control.

- Clearly demonstrate how each privacy choice affects their experience.

- Facilitate easy processes for accessing, modifying, or deleting personal information.

A powerful example of this approach was Apple's App Tracking Transparency, which forced businesses to clearly articulate the value of data sharing and actually improved customer relations through transparent communication.

Show your security commitment clearly

Transparency around security measures significantly bolsters customer confidence. Without revealing sensitive details, clearly communicate:

- General data protection approaches and commitments.

- Security certifications and routine assessments conducted by your organization.

- Vetting procedures for third-party vendors handling customer data.

- Action plans and protocols for handling data breaches.

According to Experian, businesses that respond promptly and transparently to breaches retain significantly higher levels of trust.

Clearly articulate the value exchange

Consumers are more inclined to share personal data if they clearly see the benefits. Go beyond vague promises and explicitly communicate the tangible advantages of data sharing:

- Illustrate specific ways data enhances their experience, such as personalized recommendations or faster transactions.

- Demonstrate immediate value or convenience linked directly to specific data-sharing activities.

Making the value exchange explicit encourages customers to willingly participate in data sharing.

Cultivate an internal culture of data responsibility

Effective transparency and data privacy begin internally. Employees at all levels should be trained to prioritize customer trust:

- Regularly educate teams on the importance of customer privacy and transparent data usage.

- Ensure employees can confidently address customer questions about data practices.

- Establish clear guidelines and escalation paths for privacy concerns.

A knowledgeable and trained team is essential for building genuine customer trust.

Continuously listen and adapt

Maintaining customer trust is an ongoing process. Regular feedback mechanisms are crucial:

- Conduct frequent surveys specifically addressing data privacy and transparency concerns.

- Monitor customer interactions with privacy settings and adapt based on insights.

- Track privacy-related customer inquiries and complaints, using these insights for continuous improvement.

Companies responsive to customer feedback consistently maintain higher levels of trust and satisfaction.

Invest in advanced data governance tools

Adopting sophisticated data governance tools could streamline your privacy efforts. These tools offer capabilities such as real-time data tracking, automated compliance checks, and efficient audit trails. Such technology not only simplifies compliance but also proactively identifies potential privacy risks before they escalate into larger issues, thus further reinforcing customer trust.

Long-term strategic advantage through trust

In a market increasingly driven by data yet equally wary of privacy violations, trust has become a significant competitive differentiator. Enterprises that successfully balance personalized experiences with robust data privacy best practices will not only foster customer loyalty but also achieve sustainable competitive advantages.

By embedding transparency deeply into their customer relationships, businesses can convert privacy concerns from potential vulnerabilities into enduring strengths.

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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

Categories: Technology

Call of Duty Next event – start date for the next Black Ops 7 reveal

Fri, 08/29/2025 - 09:08

Call of Duty Next will return next month (September 30), bringing a whole host of reveals related to Black Ops 7, Warzone, and Call of Duty Mobile. The start date has been revealed, and we can expect there to be a huge live event featuring all of the biggest Call of Duty streamers.

Black Ops 7 is likely to be the focus of Call of Duty Next, given that we've still got a fair bit to learn about the new FPS game. There's set to be a Black Ops 7 beta later this year, too, so hopefully we'll see more on what's included and how to participate. If early signs are anything, Black Ops 7 is a new direction for the series, one that could end up hitting with fans. The game could even end up on our best PC games list by the end of the year.

Here's the Call of Duty Next start date, as well as some info on what to expect based on last year's event. As we move into September, Activision is likely to announce more details on the streamers involved and the show length. For now, here's everything we know so far.

Call of Duty Next start date

(Image credit: Activision)

Call of Duty Next airs September 30, 2025. Precise timings have yet to be revealed, but given that it's usually held in Los Angeles, expect it to revolve around Pacific US Time.

Call of Duty Next - what to expect

Activision is yet to announce the full details for Call of Duty Next. What we do know is that it'll be a live event that shows off what's next for the franchise. This means Black Ops 7 reveals, Warzone updates, and details on future Call of Duty Mobile content. Here's what's been said about the event so far:

  • First look at what's ahead for the COD franchise
  • Black Ops 7 Multiplayer and Zombies gameplay and streamer access
  • All new experiences in Warzone
  • The latest content coming to Call of Duty Mobile
Call of Duty Next - predictions and what I'd like to see

(Image credit: Activision)

Call of Duty Next events are always a great mix of extended gameplay sessions and reveals around the new games. Personally, I'm not sold on Black Ops 7 yet, especially given we only got Black Ops 6 last year. I loved BO6, but dropped off shortly after launch, mostly pulled away by other games like Marvel Rivals.

I need to see more information on the Campaign, as the 'online co-op' aspect is ringing some alarm bells. Namely, reminding me of Modern Warfare 3, the last game that followed only a year after its predecessor. This Campaign was an underbaked and largely recycled mix of Warzone areas and open-ended gameplay. Hopefully, Treyarch can convince me that Black Ops 7 is indeed a full game, but I'll need to be shown proof at the Call of Duty Next event.

I expect there to be a focus on Multiplayer at the event, with map reveals and a look at the new movement mechanics. This will then be followed by a switch to streamer gameplay, as they'll likely all be in the same hall playing at individual stations. Call of Duty usually saves Campaign deep dives for later, but it's possible we'll see a short mission or get interviews with some of the actors that feature in the story.

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Categories: Technology

Anthropic warns that its Claude AI is being 'weaponized' by hackers to write malicious code

Fri, 08/29/2025 - 06:27
  • Anthropic's Threat Intelligence Report outlines the acceleration of AI attacks
  • AI is now fueling all parts of the cyberattack process
  • One such attack has been identified at 'vibe hacking'

One of the world’s largest AI companies, Anthropic, has warned that its chatbot has been ‘weaponised’ by threat actors to “to commit large-scale theft and extortion of personal data". Anthropic’s Threat Intelligence Report details ways in which the technology is being used to carry out sophisticated cyberattacks.

Weaponized AI is making hackers faster, more aggressive, and more successful - and the threat report outlines that ransomware attacks which previously would have required years of training can now be crafted with very few technical skills.

These cyberattacks are lucrative for hackers, with AI now being used for fraudulent activity like stealing credit card information and identity theft, with attackers even using AI to analyze stolen data.

“Vibe hacking”

Defenders have long warned that AI is lowering the barriers to cybercrime, allowing low-skilled hackers to carry out complex attacks, but LLMs are now assisting criminals at every point along the attack process.

The report describes a particular threat it dubs ‘vibe-hacking’, which refers to a campaign in which Claude was used to scale and build a data extortion scheme. The name is a reference to the ‘vibe coding’ method of software development which heavily relies on AI to generate code and build applications.

Cluade’s code execution environment was used to; ‘automate reconnaissance, credential harvesting, and network penetration at scale, potentially affecting at least 17 distinct organizations in just the last month across government, healthcare, emergency services, and religious institutions.’

Anthropic’s investigations found cybercriminals targeted a range of sectors, focusing on data theft and extortion. These attacks resulted in ‘the compromise of personal records, including healthcare data, financial information, government credentials, and other sensitive information, with direct ransom demands occasionally exceeding $500,000.’

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Categories: Technology

Star Wars: Starfighter gets its official first look, but it’s got nothing on a surprising new cast announcement

Fri, 08/29/2025 - 06:25

Star Wars: Starfighter, the installment in the franchise due to be released on May 28, 2027 – that's a year after The Mandalorian & Grogu, if you're keeping up – has finally got its first look straight from the set (you can catch up with it below).

Ryan Gosling will be our next leading man and eponymous Starfighter, with Flynn Gray, Matt Smith and Mia Goth among those previously announced in the cast.

Annoyingly, we've got absolutely no idea what the new Star Wars movie is going to be about aside from some other-world fighting in the starry atmosphere, probably with new creatures and droids.

Day 1: A whole new adventure begins #Starfighterhttps://t.co/eI5xaROQAj pic.twitter.com/8AXiBN4x4BAugust 28, 2025

However, we do have some updates. Amy Adams and Aaron Pierre have also been announced as joining the cast, with Adams set to play Gray's mother (Pierre's role has not been rumored). But as much as I love seeing these two act, it's not the announcement that's got me, a Star Wars dunce, incredibly excited for its release.

It's not Jamael Westman or Daniel Ings, who are also in the ensemble. Oh no. It's Simon Bird, whose name might not mean anything to you if you're based in the US, or anywhere other than the UK. He's best known in Britain for playing Will MacKenzie in sitcom The Inbetweeners, and it's this role that makes his casting incredibly ironic.

Simon Bird's casting in Star Wars: Starfighter is hilarious, actually

I have four words for you: feisty one, you are. If you've ever seen The Inbetweeners, which ran from 2008 to 2010 (not including the movies), you might remember the season 2 episode where Will and the gang head to Swanage for a school field trip, with Will's eye immediately swayed by new girl Lauren (Jayne Wisener).

While Simon (Joe Thomas) tries to take her for himself, Will dusts off his best flirting techniques over lunch, which just happens to be a Yoda impression. Lauren has no idea what's going on, claiming she was worried he had "a problem," and unsurprisingly, she chooses Simon over Will.

This is also the episode where the boys punch a fish in a dingy and set off a distress flare while they're still in the harbor, so Inbetweeners gold, in short. Will's Yoda line is something that's still regularly quoted almost 20 years later, and it took all of 0.5 seconds for fans to pick up on the link.

"From briefcase w**ker to Star Wars pilot, what a glow up," one fan replied to the announcement on X, with another attaching the Yoda clip and adding "This is clearly the reason why they cast him."

Another weighed in, "Star Wars casting weirdly perfect here, he’s gonna own it," with another fan agreeing, "Nah, he’s just gonna crash-land with a 'bumder!' and a Yoda impression!"

While fans are speculating that Bird will play a pilot, no official announcement of his exact role has been made.

With director Shawn Levy (Deadpool & Wolverine) steering the Star Wars: Starfighter ship, I hope that he at least subtly pays homage to a moment so famous, it's certainly made the UK sitcom Hall of Fame (well, it would if I were in charge).

In the meantime, you can watch the Star Wars back catalog on Disney+ in the US, UK and Australia.

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Categories: Technology

Do we need more 500Hz gaming monitors? Well, two more have arrived – and the price of one might surprise you

Fri, 08/29/2025 - 06:06
  • The MSI MAG 272QP and Gigabyte Aorus FO27Q5P monitors have arrived
  • Both use the same Samsung 27-inch QD-OLED 500Hz panel
  • Newegg has priced the MSI model, and it's a fair bit more affordable than the existing Samsung Odyssey OLED that also uses this panel

A pair of new OLED gaming monitors with an extremely fast 500Hz refresh rate are now available, according to the manufacturers.

Tom's Hardware spotted the announcements for the Gigabyte Aorus FO27Q5P (pictured above) and MSI MAG 272QP QD-OLED X50 (pictured below) monitors. I should note that they aren't on sale just yet, but should be available imminently.

Both monitors, which were initially unveiled earlier this year, are built around the same Samsung 27-inch QD-OLED panel, so the core specs for the display are identical. It's a Gen 3 panel which offers more readable text and finer detail (thanks to an updated subpixel layout), plus it's brighter compared to its predecessor OLED screen from Samsung (offering 1,000 nits peak brightness).

With both monitors you get a 1440p resolution panel with HDR1000 certification (plus HDR TrueBlack 500 and ClearMR 21000) and a super-fast 0.03 ms response time (near-instant). They also benefit from FreeSync Premium Pro support and are G-Sync Compatible, with highly accurate colors (99% DCI-P3 coverage). As mentioned, the refresh rate is 500Hz.

There are some important differences on the connectivity front, though, notably that the Gigabyte Aorus FO27Q5P offers DisplayPort 2.1a UHBR20, whereas the MSI MAG 272QP is only DisplayPort 1.4a – though both offer a pair of HDMI 2.1 ports. (Some tech sites seem to have got this round their necks, so to clarify, the MSI monitor definitely doesn't have DisplayPort 2.1a based on the official specs page).

Another noteworthy point is that the Gigabyte monitor has a pair of built-in 5W speakers, and there aren't speakers with the MSI model – not that this is likely to matter to the kind of competitive gamers who'll be looking at these screens.

(Image credit: MSI)Analysis: more (hopefully) affordable 500Hz OLEDs are welcome

There are monitors with faster refresh rates that have been shown off, but remember, these are OLED panels, and 500Hz is blazing fast for this tech – and indeed the fastest you can get (for now, at least, though that may change before too long). It's also arguable how high you need to go with refresh rates, anyway (but let's not go off on that tangent).

The Samsung Odyssey OLED G60SF carries the same 1440p and 500Hz panel, and is already out on the market priced at $1,000 (at the time of writing) in the US. There's no official pricing on either the MSI MAG 272QP or Gigabyte Aorus FO27Q5P from the makers, but Newegg US does have the MSI model listed and priced at $750. Ordering isn't live yet, but assuming that's not a placeholder – and we must be a bit careful around that – this looks like good value for the spec on offer. That's not to say it's exactly cheap – but you didn't really expect that a 500Hz OLED monitor would be, did you?

Of course, these kinds of screens are for the most competitive gamers out there who are into their esports. You'll need a very powerful PC and one of the fastest graphics cards to drive 500Hz – which is 500 frames per second – at 1440p resolution even with less demanding games (which esports titles generally are, as they place a premium on fluid frame rates over visual bells and whistles).

Aside from the still rather wallet-worrying price, another concern that might remain for those considering an OLED gaming monitor is the possibility of burn-in (permanent image retention caused by a static element, like a game HUD or desktop OS interface, being present on the screen for too long).

Both MSI and Gigabyte offer a three-year warranty which includes protection against burn-in, and the manufacturers also have their own tech to protect against image retention. That includes MSI's OLED Care 2.0 and Gigabyte's OLED Care, along with heat dissipation measures to lower screen temperatures (and therefore reduce burn-in risk).

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Apple might launch an intriguing new iPhone 17 accessory – but something makes me think it’s fake

Fri, 08/29/2025 - 05:52
  • Leaked images appear to show a Crossbody Strap product
  • The lanyard-like device is rumored to release alongside the iPhone 17
  • It may contradict earlier iPhone 17 leaks, raising some awkward questions

Last week, an iPhone 17 packaging leak dropped a hint about an unreleased “Crossbody Strap,” which sparked questions over what exactly this mysterious product could be. Now, a leaker has revealed images depicting what they claim is the Crossbody Strap, but the fresh pictures have raised a whole new set of questions in their wake.

The images have been included in a new blog post by prolific leaker Majin Bu. They depict a lanyard-type strap that is designed to clip onto an iPhone and hold it across your body. They suggest that the strap will be made from a nylon-type material that looks similar to that found on the Sport Loop band of the Apple Watch, and Bu says a silicone version might also become available.

The Crossbody Strap is apparently magnetic along its entire length, and these magnets are used to securely close the ends of the strap, which Bu says “[eliminates] the need for traditional hooks or loops.” It should be compatible with iPhone 17 cases, according to Bu, and potentially also the AirPods Pro 3.

However, it’s the ends of the strap that are causing a little confusion. The images posted on Bu’s website show a strap that has a uniform thickness all the way along its length. Yet that thickness looks to be significantly wider than the lanyard cutouts shown in leaked iPhone 17 case photos provided by – you guessed it – Majin Bu. It therefore appears that Bu’s latest Crossbody Strap post actually contradicts their previous leaks, which is never a good look.

More questions than answersImage 1 of 4

(Image credit: Majin Bu)Image 2 of 4

(Image credit: Majin Bu)Image 3 of 4

(Image credit: Majin Bu)Image 4 of 4

(Image credit: Majin Bu)

So, what could be going on here? Well, there are a few possibilities. The most straightforward is that one or more of Bu’s leaks are inaccurate, as it’s hard to square the different images at the moment.

Alternatively, the Crossbody Strap images might be missing a key component. The pictures show two holes at the end of each strap – perhaps this is where a thinner thread can be attached, which then loops through the iPhone case’s lanyard holes. Yet that itself raises questions: if this thread exists, why did Bu not show it? And will such a thin thread be strong enough to support an iPhone’s weight, particularly if it is tugged?

Those unanswered questions, combined with Bu’s hit-and-miss record when it comes to Apple leaks, mean we should take the claims with a dose of skepticism. Apple is set to unveil the iPhone 17 at an event on September 9, and we're expecting an answer to this mystery then. That could finally reveal how – or if – Bu’s seemingly conflicting leaks can be reconciled.

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Google warns Salesloft attack may have compromised Workspace accounts and Salesforce instances

Fri, 08/29/2025 - 05:42
  • Salesloft suffered a third-party attack earlier this week
  • New information suggests all authentication tokens were compromised
  • Google disabled integrations and warned victims, in response

The Salesloft cyberattack that happened earlier this week may have also compromised certain Google Workspace accounts, as well as Salesforce instances. This is according to Google’s Threat Intelligence Group (GTIG), who published an updated report to warn about the worrying discovery.

On Wednesday, news broke that revenue platform Salesloft fell victim to a third-party cyberattack in which sensitive information was stolen. The company is using Drift, a conversational marketing and sales platform that uses live chat, chatbots, and AI, to engage visitors in real time.

Alongside it is SalesDrift, a third-party platform which links Drift’s AI chat functionality to Salesforce, syncing conversations, leads, and cases, into the CRM via the Salesloft ecosystem.

Salesloft under attack

Starting around August 8, and lasting for about ten days, adversaries managed to steal OAuth and refresh tokens from SalesDrift, pivoting to customer environments, and successfully exfiltrating sensitive data.

Now, Google’s update says the scope of the compromise impacted more than the Salesforce integration: “We now advise all Salesloft Drift customers to treat any and all authentication tokens stored in or connected to the Drift platform as potentially compromised,” the update reads.

TGIG said that the attackers compromised OAuth tokens for the “Drift Email” integration, and used them to access a “very small number” of Google Workspace accounts. Apparently, only the accounts that were configured to integrate with Salesloft were compromised.

In response, Google revoked the tokens, disabled the integration functionality, and notified potentially impacted users. “We are notifying all impacted Google Workspace administrators. To be clear, there has been no compromise of Google Workspace or Alphabet itself.”

Google also recommended organizations immediately review all third-party integrations connected to their Drift instance, revoke and rotate all credentials, and monitor all connected systems for signs of unauthorized access.

The researchers believe the attack was done by a group tracked as UNC6395, although ShinyHunters claimed it was their doing.

Via BleepingComputer

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The latest Samsung Galaxy tri-fold leak reveals the foldable's design and 3 key features

Fri, 08/29/2025 - 05:40
  • More details of the Galaxy tri-fold have leaked
  • Expect NFC payments, wireless charging, and reverse charging
  • It's likely to use an infolding form factor

Samsung gave us a brief glimpse of its tri-fold smartphone all the way back in January at the Galaxy S25 launch, but we're still waiting for it to see the light of day – and in the meantime, a fresh leak has given us some idea of what's coming.

Tipster @TechHighest (via SamMobile) has uncovered three animations relating to the tri-fold, which we're assuming are buried somewhere in the One UI software, though there's no clear indication of where these are sourced from.

The animations seem to confirm that – as previously rumored – this will use the infolding form factor, which means the main display is going to fold in from the sides, with a separate display on the other side that can be used when the phone is closed.

We also get a look at three features: NFC payments, wireless charging, and reverse wireless charging (so you can charge small gadgets like earbuds on the back of the phone). All very much expected, and on all of Samsung's recent flagship phones, but worth noting.

What we think we know

Morning pic.twitter.com/0BIxZG1c0xAugust 28, 2025

Besides that brief glimpse in January, Samsung hasn't said too much about what's coming with this tri-fold. It has, however, gone on record to say that the device is still on the way, and will be available to buy before the end of the year.

According to one tipster, the phone is going to break cover soon, and will be called the Galaxy Z Trifold – which of course would be a nod to the other foldables Samsung makes, most recently the Galaxy Z Fold 7 and the Galaxy Z Flip 7.

Other leaks that have emerged from Samsung's One UI software ahead of the tri-fold's launch include one showing an upgraded multitasking interface to make use of the bigger screen, and one showing how the three panels will fit together.

It looks as though the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset is going to be on board, unsurprisingly, although charging speeds might be rather unspectacular. And if you're thinking of making a purchase, it's likely that you'll need deep pockets.

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Categories: Technology

Why omnichannel payments are no longer optional for retailers

Fri, 08/29/2025 - 05:21

Retail in the UK has embraced digital innovation – from websites and mobile apps to smart kiosks and even augmented‑reality mirrors reshaping the high street. But behind these advances lies a surprising weak spot: payments.

While stores innovate non-stop in customer experience, I’ve seen many continue to rely on outdated, disconnected payment setups – systems that only work via app, terminal, or wallet, and don’t communicate with each other. This fragmentation creates real friction for customers and chaos for finance and operations functions at these businesses.

To understand how far behind this puts retailers, consider this: in 2023, UK consumers made 18.3 billion contactless payments, up from 6.6 billion in 2018. That’s nearly 40% of all payments. And about a third of adults now tap their phone or card monthly.

The way people pay has changed – but many retail systems haven’t caught up.

Where it breaks down: click-and-collect

One of the clearest signs of this disconnect is the click-and-collect phenomenon. Anyone in retail will know it’s a hugely popular service – eMarketer reports that 64% of UK retailers offer it, and 15% of online orders are now picked up in-store, nearly double the pre-pandemic levels.

Buy Online, Pick Up In Store (BOPIS) is known to boost both footfall and basket size. But here’s the thing: when payments aren’t integrated across channels, this convenience starts to crumble. Staff often can’t verify transactions at pickup. Queues build. Trust erodes. The promise of frictionless shopping disappears.

It’s not just customers – back-office teams feel it too

Fragmented payments don’t only hurt the customer experience. They create severe operational strain behind the scenes.

Finance teams scramble to reconcile online and in-store revenue, often manually; risk teams lack a complete view of fraud across channels; marketing teams struggle to connect the dots between campaigns and conversions; and executives are forced to make strategic decisions based on partial, siloed data.

This isn’t just a technical challenge – it’s a barrier to business clarity, performance, and agility.

There’s momentum for change

Fortunately, momentum is building for smarter, more unified payment systems.

The UK’s financial infrastructure is modernizing. The Bank of England, in collaboration with HM Treasury and the FCA, has established the Retail Payments Infrastructure Board to overhaul the Faster Payments system. Their goal is to enable instant account-to-account (A2A) payments at checkout, reducing reliance on card networks like Visa and Mastercard, and lowering transaction fees.

At the same time, Soft-POS system technology is redefining how payments are accepted. Smartphones and tablets can now function as secure NFC terminals. Analysts project that the global value of Soft-POS transactions will rise from $23.9 billion in 2025 to $540 billion by 2030. Meanwhile, digital wallets are gaining ground fast. According to eMarketer, over 50% of UK adults use PayPal, and nearly 30% use Apple Pay, both online and in stores.

That’s not just preference – it’s an imperative. These options must be integrated seamlessly, not embedded as afterthoughts.

Unified payments drive trust and growth

A unified payment system is more than efficient – it’s powerful. In 2022, UK retailers lost approximately £1.2 billion to payment fraud. Global losses are projected to exceed $107 billion by 2029. Fragmented systems make it easier for bad actors to exploit weaknesses – testing stolen cards online, picking them up in-store, and vanishing before systems catch up.

But when payment channels are connected, fraud detection becomes faster, more accurate, and more actionable. Real-time insights enable teams to flag suspicious behavior and prevent fraud before it occurs. That kind of visibility can protect revenue, safeguard customers, and strengthen brand trust.

Tangible results for retailers

The impact of unified payments is already visible among retailers who’ve taken action. Failed pickups are dropping. Dispute volumes are shrinking. Financial close processes are becoming faster and more accurate. In-store teams are reporting smoother workflows, and marketing teams can finally track the ROI of campaigns with clarity.

For example, before we started working with retailer Nemesis Now, they were facing serious challenges. Getaway attacks had become a regular threat – fake orders and fraudulent refunds were causing a real disruption, with teams working overtime to fend off thousands of malicious requests.

With little urgency from their previous payment gateway provider, they had no choice but to work with their web development agency to identify vulnerabilities and block the attacks. It was a costly and stressful ordeal that highlighted just how critical a secure, unified payments setup really is.

In short, this isn’t just a backend win. When systems are connected, store associates can complete transactions without friction. Finance teams can report with confidence. Fraud analysts can respond to threats in real time. Executives gain a clear view of performance, and customers enjoy the kind of seamless, personalized experience that drives loyalty.

The stakes are high – and the moment is now

With contactless transactions now accounting for 38% of UK payments and cash still representing around 12%, retailers need to support a range of preferences securely and responsibly. The regulatory environment is also evolving, with PSD3, APP reimbursement requirements, and emerging technologies such as dark stores and real-time loyalty systems prompting retailers to reassess their payment infrastructure.

According to Gartner, those who treat payments as a strategic capability – rather than just a technical one – gain significant advantages in fraud resilience, agility, and customer retention. In today’s environment, those differences can define who leads and who lags.

From fragmentation to strategy

For retailers ready to move, there’s no need to start from scratch. Playbooks, integration frameworks, and benchmarks already exist – rooted in real-world examples, not vendor hype.

Fragmented payments don’t just slow things down—they erode trust. Unified systems restore confidence, sharpen decision-making, and unlock growth, from the first click to the final till. Giving payments a strategic seat at the table is no longer optional. It’s essential.

We list the best mobile payment apps.

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

Categories: Technology

Tesla takes the wraps off its Model Y Performance – a family SUV that’s faster than a Porsche 911

Fri, 08/29/2025 - 04:45
  • New Performance version sees the 0-60mph sprint dispatched in 3.3 seconds
  • Fresh alloy wheels and sporty design touches feature throughout
  • Model Y Performance also boasts an all-new infotainment display

After a not-so subtle spoiler on social media earlier this week, Tesla has revealed a new Model Y Performance trim that will be available in the UK and select European markets, with first deliveries expected in September and October.

Priced at £61,990 UK or €61,990 in Ireland (around $83,500 / AU$128,000), the Model Y Performance delivers potent straight-line, erm, performance, with an official 0-60mph sprint time of just 3.3 seconds.

But rather than simply excelling in the traffic light Olympics, Tesla says the latest addition to the line-up has undergone rigorous validation and tuning, confirming that those spy shots from the Nurburgring were correct.

Thanks to a revised suspension system, including new springs, stabilizer bars, bushings and adaptive dampers, Tesla has been able to introduce a new selection of drive modes, with a dedicated Sport setting stiffening the ride to give the vehicle a more dynamic feel through corners.

Owners will also have more control over stability and traction control settings too, with the option to reduce traction control interventions when hitting the race circuit after the weekly shop.

Alongside the dramatic increase in performance (the powertrain now delivers 460bhp, compared to the 375bhp of the previous dual motor Model Y), Tesla has also introduced 21-inch ‘Arachnid’ forged alloy wheels, performance red brake calipers, a carbon fibre spoiler at the rear and aluminum pedals inside.

This is in addition to the new front and rear fascias that give it a more purposeful overall look — a massive improvement over the Model Y of old, we think you'll agree.

Getting Europe back on track

(Image credit: Tesla)

Seeing as the new Model Y Performance will be assembled at the company’s Gigafactory Berlin-Brandenburg, the UK and Europe will be among the first markets to receive the quickest accelerating Model Y.

It comes at a time when Tesla sales in those regions have started to slide at a rapid rate, with Chinese rivals making a huge and lightning fast impact on the overall market.

The likes of BYD, Zeekr, XPeng, Jaecoo, Omoda, Leapmotor and more have gained the attention of European buyers with excellent value propositions.

Although Tesla’s asking price isn’t exactly on the budget side of the spectrum, it’s still easier on the wallet than, say, a Porsche Taycan, Audi e-tron or BMW i5 M60 xDrive, all of which offer similarly brutal acceleration figures.

What’s more, Tesla still offers the everyday practicality that made the Model Y the best selling car on the planet in the first place.

The front seats might have been replaced by more bolstered sports offerings, but they will still be fantastically comfortable over big distances. The official WLTP range is pegged at an impressive 360-miles, with Tesla’s renowned efficiencies remaining baked into the package.

Finally, Tesla says an all-new 16-inch touchscreen with thinner bezels and higher resolution have been added to the Performance model, packing nearly 80% more pixels and a “smoother more immersive” experience than the one found on the 15.4-inch display on other Model Y variants.

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Secure access, minimize tech debt: a browser-based strategy for the SaaS-driven enterprise

Fri, 08/29/2025 - 03:52

There’s a silent strain on security in today’s enterprises, and it’s coming from an unexpected source: the technology stack.

Technical debt is a $2.41 trillion problem in the United States. No wonder, then, that 87% of IT leaders rank tech debt reduction as a top five initiative for their organization, according to a new Enterprise Strategy Group survey. Respondents cited security concerns, escalating operating costs, and more.

How did organizations get this deep into application tech debt? What are the implications for security? And, most importantly: How can organizations begin to dig their way out?

A vicious cycle of short-term fixes

Tech debt is, at its core, the pain of applying yesterday's technology decisions to today's business needs.

Organizations frequently face trade-offs when it comes to technology. Most often, they find the best solutions for their complex problems, balancing network, security, and end-user priorities. Other times, they’re under pressure to move fast and constrained by limited resources, leading to quick fixes that complicate their tech stack.

This is how tech debt accrues, one well-intentioned decision at a time. As business demands intensify – whether due to growth, digital transformation, or external disruptions – IT and security teams make pragmatic choices and adopt point solutions to keep up.

But these bolt-on software purchases quietly snowball and mutate into an unmanageable web – eventually emerging loudly in the form of fractured IT infrastructure, inconsistent user experiences, ballooning operational costs, and unpredictable IT environments.

Not to mention, they make for a vastly increased attack surface. In this Swiss cheese effect of overlapping systems, the organization can spend more time patching holes and maintaining legacy scaffolding than innovating.

According to a Gartner survey of 162 large enterprises, conducted between August and October 2024, organizations use an average of 45 cybersecurity tools. It’s a vicious cycle of patch upon patch.

Time isn’t the only cost. Enterprise Strategy Group found that 47% of IT leaders point to escalating operational costs as a direct result of legacy infrastructure support. And 36% flagged increased security vulnerabilities as a growing concern tied to outdated systems.

Regardless of the justification for yesterday’s technology decisions, they all impact today’s enterprise systems—increasing complexity, maintenance burdens, and security vulnerabilities.

Tech debt has a SaaS problem

Most modern applications in use across the enterprise today are delivered in a SaaS model. For more than half of survey respondents, SaaS and legacy web-based applications represented a combined 61% of all application usage – the majority of those being classified as “business critical” apps.

In the enterprise, these critical apps require secure, modern access methods. However, to date, secure access has often come at the cost of convenience. Legacy access solutions like VDI and VPN weren’t designed with the SaaS-first enterprise in mind, creating friction for users, increasing overhead for IT teams, and offering limited visibility, control, or threat detection once users are inside the app.

Monitoring these apps requires bolted-on solutions, further increasing tech debt. Unsurprisingly, the number of respondents that indicated the desire to move off VDI solutions was a staggering 72%.

As SaaS adoption has accelerated, this mismatch between access architecture and application delivery has accelerated along with it—slowing agility, increasing risk, and complicating user experience across the board. Tech debt isn’t just a nuisance; it's an anchor dragging down enterprise security and efficiency.

Addressing tech debt at the point of access

As knowledge workers’ primary interface, the browser is central to accessing SaaS, internal apps, and digital workflows. Therefore, the most direct way to address the application tech debt challenge is to reimagine the browser itself.

Browsers like Chrome and Edge, while highly effective tools for consumers, were never designed for enterprise needs. It presents a huge security gap: 62% of sensitive corporate data is accessed via consumer browsers, and 35% of data leaks stem from those same browsers.

These browsers require a complex ecosystem of tools – data loss prevention (DLP), web gateways, remote browser isolation (RBI), endpoint agents, VPNs, and more – to try to secure browsing activity and protect sensitive data. Over time, these layers have compounded, contributing to tech debt in both security and application access by requiring ongoing management, troubleshooting, and upgrades.

Further complicating the tech debt challenge is the proliferation of AI tools. In these early days of AI adoption, end users and the enterprises in which they operate will undoubtedly choose multiple tools to address niche use cases without understanding the impact on data protection and user experience. And fresh competition will replace many of these tools almost as fast as they arise. Future technology decisions will need to address managing the sprawl of shadow AI and the new tech debt it creates.

The emergence of enterprise browsers

However, a new type of browser has emerged: enterprise browsers, which are designed exclusively for use in the workplace. Gartner recognized this new category of browsers in 2023. In April, Evgeny Mirolyubov, Sr Director Analyst at Gartner, said, “SEBs embed enterprise security controls into the native web browsing experience using a customized browser or extension for existing browsers, instead of adding bolt-on controls at the endpoint or network layer.”

Enterprise browsers are redefining how organizations approach application access. An enterprise browser streamlines the tech stack needed to secure, manage, understand, and enable access to critical apps and data.

With growing regulatory scrutiny and the rising sophistication of threats like phishing, browser-based malware, and insider threats, organizations must rethink access with security at the forefront. Enterprise browsers provide visibility and control down to the session level, enabling proactive enforcement and rapid incident response.

These browsers have the power to reduce reliance on legacy tools like VDI, VPNs, DLP, proxies, and various endpoint agents—eliminating layer upon layer of tech debt and enabling secure, efficient, and scalable access.

Secure access without the debt

For too long, organizations have been trapped in a loop where old decisions constrain new possibilities. Years of layering legacy access tools, fragmented security controls, outdated application architectures, and siloed observability and authentication systems have created a complex web of technical debt—one that undermines performance, cybersecurity, and scalability at a time when seamless, secure, and cloud-optimized access is more critical than ever.

Finally, there’s an off-ramp from this loop. By reconsidering the browser, forward-thinking enterprises are not just reducing debt—they’re building resilience for the next generation of digital transformation.

We list the best IT management tools.

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

Categories: Technology

Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater - everything you need to know

Fri, 08/29/2025 - 03:34

The Metal Gear Solid 3 remake reintroduces a landmark stealth game series in 4K glory, with all the shine and gleam that comes from a modern remake. Now we've had time to play the game, you can read TechRadar Gaming's Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater review.

Over twenty years after the release of the original, the remake recreates a similar experience while boasting more modernized mechanics and visuals. Titled Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater, and also being referred to as just 'Metal Gear Solid 3 Remake', this is an exciting new way to play a stone cold classic

Now that the game is out, here’s everything you need to know about Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater.

Metal Gear Solid 3 Remake - Cut to the chase 
  • What is it? A remaster of the esteemed Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater
  • When did it come out? August 28, 2025
  • What can I play it on? PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, PC
  • Who is making it? Konami
Metal Gear Solid 3 remake release date and platforms

(Image credit: Konami)

Metal Gear Solid 3 Remake launched August 28, 2025. This was revealed during a State of Play event. Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater is out on PS5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC.

Unfortunately, the game isn’t going to receive any last-gen ports, so if you’re still rocking older hardware, it might be worth looking to upgrade your setup prior to release if the game is a must-play for you. With how highly praised the original game was, there's a strong chance that it could now fall among not only the best Xbox Series X games, but the best PS5 games too.

Metal Gear Solid 3 remake trailers

(Image credit: Konami)

The latest Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater trailer gives an overview of the new online mode. It's called Fox Hunt, and pits players against each other in a deadly game of hide and seek:

A trailer for Metal Gear Solid 3 Remake dropped alongside the full release date:

Konami dropped a dazzling in-engine look at the game as part of the Xbox Showcase event that aired on June 9, 2024. In it, we see plenty of gameplay, including our first look at The Boss. Check it out below:

Before that, there was our first proper look at gameplay. This trailer not only gave us a splendid look at how the game runs and moves, but also showed us some updated shots of iconic parts and areas of the game, from the ruins where Snake finds Sokolov, to the mountaintop trenches, to the swamps with large reptile friends, the rope bridge that houses the climax of the Virtuous mission, and what looks like the location of the boss battle with The Pain. It really does look incredible and looks to be brilliantly brought to life in the Unreal Engine 5.

In these short clips, however, we also get a brief look at gameplay with Snake taking cover behind trees to investigate patrolling guards and also eyeing one up to shoot in first-person view. Check it out in all its 4K glory below.

Before the above video, we only had one Metal Gear Solid 3 remake trailer in the form of the announcement - and it doesn’t give any information away regarding in-game content. Instead, it takes us through an animated rendition of the jungle landscape players of the original Metal Gear Solid 3 may recognize.

After following a colony of ants, followed by a bird in flight, and then a large snake and crocodile, we get our first glimpse at Snake. The end of the trailer announces the name Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater, but we don’t receive anything about platforms or a release date.

What we can glean from the trailer though are a bunch of call-backs, nods, and 'easter eggs' which are great fun for existing fans to identify - even if we don't see any in-game action or mechanics. Some specifically good nods are being able to make out the silhouette of the Shagohod in the clouds at the beginning, the parrot almost certainly being The End's companion bird, and the poison dart frog giving a nod to The Fear.

Also, as well as the trailer, the official screenshots that have been released make for great viewing too: and importantly seem to indicate that environments and spaces won't be drastically changed, and will get the beautifying treatment while retaining their original layout, style, and features.

Metal Gear Solid 3 remake story and setting

(Image credit: Konami)

The majority of the setting of Metal Gear Solid 3 is in a jungle in Russia, during the Cold War, which is echoed through the brief pan we receive in the announcement trailer.

The story has been confirmed to remain the same as the original game, so if you’ve already played the 2004 version, you’ll probably know what to expect. But, if you’re among the players who are yet to experience what Metal Gear Solid 3 has to offer, and you’d rather now wait for the remake rather than play the original, then the story is still worth brushing up on so you’ll be able to experience the high-stakes action without having to learn too much on the spot.

MGS3 serves as a prequel to the rest of the saga, and because of this, it lays out the origins of Big Boss, a major character within the series, and walks you through the infiltration of Soviet territory to prevent the construction of a weapon of mass destruction. It becomes your job as 'Naked Snake' to carry out missions (as part of the larger mission at hand) translated through radio messages, boss fights, stealthy espionage action, and to avoid blowing your cover to do what's right.

In addition to setting up the series, MGS3 is the first game (despite being a prequel) to stray from the traditional formula of Metal Gear Solid games in terms of its technology, relying more on using the wilderness to your advantage rather than leaning on and defending yourself against high tech. Even though you can use it to your advantage, the wilderness and its ferocious inhabitants are also ready to blow Snake’s cover, so you need to stay alert at all times.

Metal Gear Solid 3 remake gameplay

(Image credit: Konami)

As mentioned above, the latest in-engine look at the Metal Gear 3 remake also showed off some glimpses of familiar gameplay. We see Snake taking aim in first-person view from long grass, carefully wading through marshes past reptilian beasts, taking cover behind trees and ruins, and also a clear look at the way Snake moves while crouched, walking, climbing, and leaning. We also see a short clip of Snake taking down a guard from behind - the motions are familiar but much more fluid and seamless when compared to the original.

Away from what we've seen in that trailer, however, and similarly to the story, we expect the Metal Gear Solid 3 remake gameplay to stick pretty closely to the source material. While the general premise of stealth and combat-heavy interactions is expected to continue, we do expect the newest iteration of the game to feel more polished in comparison to its 2004 counterpart.

That said, there could be several mechanics that have been fine-tuned or adapted to make the experience more streamlined and up-to-date. As confirmed in a Tweet posted on the official Metal Gear Solid page, MGS Delta: Snake Eater, is intended to be a ‘faithful recreation of the original story and game design, while evolving the gameplay with stunning visuals and a seamless user experience.’ Perhaps the game will get similar treatment to the Resident Evil remakes of recent years, with a full overhaul of the camera and mechanics to bring the game into the modern day.

The content of the original game was praised for being before its time, so we are keen to see how exactly these are adapted for a more beneficial user experience. Mechanics such as healing were pretty challenging throughout the original and included a lot of in-menu work, but whether or not this will be among the elements being evolved is currently unknown. If there's an aim to make this, in particular, more fluid, then this would be music to the ears of a lot of existing fans, as well as a new audience.

While there’s still a lot to uncover about how exactly the remake will build upon the foundations set by the original, we aren’t going in entirely blind. A new showcase diving into the game's mechanics reveals two ways to play. A legacy mode will allow players to keep classic controls, and a camera view that more closely resembles the original experience. The modern mode offers an over the shoulder third-person shooter feel, matching more modern shooters.

Metal Gear Solid 3 remake news

(Image credit: Konami)

Multiplayer mode won't be crossplay
Konami has confirmed that Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater's multiplayer mode, Fox Hunt, won't support cross-play between console and PC.

Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater is getting a new online mode
Revealed during the Konami Press Start livestream on June 12, the publisher describes Fox Hunt as a "completely original online battle mode" that will play differently from 2008's Metal Gear Online.

Fox Hunt, which is being directed by series veteran Yu Sahara, takes place in the same world as the main game and will offer "hide and seek" mechanics, mixed with stealth and survival elements.

Konami provides new deep-dive into the latest trailer
Thanks to a new Metal Gear Production Hotline video, you can get some additional info, and a breakdown of the latest trailer. You'll see some details on the game's legacy mode, as well as some reveals on how the team has approached voice acting.

Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater will feature all the original voices As confirmed in a Tweet, all the original voices from the 2004 Metal Gear Solid 3 will be used in the remake. Rather than inviting voice actors back to re-record lines, the audio will be taken from the original game, which will feed into the honest recreation the remake promises to deliver.

Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater announced as part of Sony’s State of Play Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater, a remake of the 2004 Metal Gear Solid 3, was announced as part of Sony’s State of Play on May 24, 2023. Although the trailer showcased no in-game content or information regarding the storyline or a release date, it has been confirmed a remake is in the works.

Metal Gear Solid 3 remake Hideo Kojima involvement

When the official announcement of the Metal Gear Solid 3 remake came, one of the major things that fans were wondering was whether or not Hideo Kojima himself would be involved. Even though the famous game creator is no longer at Konami and has his own game development studio, the intrigue was still strong as to whether he may consult with the remake or give advice in some capacity - it is one of his games after all, and one of the best he has made.

However, as IGN reported after speaking to Konami about the remake earlier this summer. IGN asked about whether Kojima or Yoji Shinkawa - another crucial cog in the Metal Gear Solid series - would be involved. A Konami spokesperson responded plainly by saying that: "They are not involved."

So there we have it, clear as day, Hideo Kojima is not involved with the Metal Gear Solid 3 remake.

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