TechRadar News

• Android 16 Beta 3 is here, bringing new features to enrolled users
• Users need a Google Pixel 6, or more recent Google Pixel phone, to get the beta
• New features include battery health tools and accessibility options

Android 16 Beta 3 is here, bringing a handful of new features to those participating in the Android beta program.

The new features included in Android 16 Beta 3 include a new battery health monitoring screen, new accessibility settings, and new tools to keep your local networks safe.

The beta is available to users of select Google Pixel phones who are enrolled in the Android beta program: to access Android 16 betas, you’ll need a Google Pixel 6 or more recent Google Pixel handset, such as the Google Pixel 9 or Google Pixel 9 Pro.

The stable release of Android 16 is scheduled for Q2 2025, which we’re already in. If Google sticks to its target, we should see Android 16 released by the end of June.

Until then, Android 16 Beta 3 offers users some neat new features to test out. Below, we’ve rounded up the four most useful features from the latest test version of Android.

A new battery health page

Most phone users are now aware that phone batteries are consumable components that become less effective over time, as its maximum capacity diminishes with each recharge

Android 16 Beta 3 adds a handy new way to keep track of your battery’s health, with a new screen in settings offering an estimate of your battery’s current capacity as a percentage of its total capacity when new.

As Android Authority notes, the new settings page also includes links to resources that include tips on how to preserve battery health.

In a reversal of the norm, this is a feature that iPhone users have had access to for quite some time – now Android users have more information to pair with the operating system’s existing battery preservation features, like adaptive charging.

Text outlines

(Image credit: Matthew McCollough / Google )

Text can be hard to read on a smartphone display, especially on smaller screens – luckily Android 16 Beta 3 adds a new accessibility feature that should make it easier than ever to parse through the text on screen.

The new feature replaces the current high-contrast text option with outlined text, adding a high-contrast background.

This feature is specifically aimed at users with visual impairments, but it’s available to all who might want an easier time reading on-screen text.

Audio broadcast

Another accessibility feature lands with Android 16 Beta 3, in the form of Auracast audio broadcast support.

This allows users with hearing aids and earbuds paired to their smartphone to loop into public broadcasts – examples given include airports, concerts, and classrooms.

The Android developers blog notes that this makes use of the LE Audio standard, a form of Bluetooth audio.

Network security tools

Android 16 Beta 3 also includes new tools to keep prying eyes away from your local network by altering the scope of app permissions.

As it stands, any app that has permission to access the internet can access devices and files on your local network – this beta changes this by requiring a separate permission to access local networks.

This should give users more control over how much of their information is shared between apps and services.

As mentioned, Android 16 should land on the best Android phones by the end of June. Let us know what you want to see from Google’s next mobile operating system in the comments below.

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Apple is my bread and butter. I saved up for ages as a kid to buy my first MacBook, I invested all my time as a teenager learning all there was to know about the iPhone, and I started working at the Genius Bar in my local Apple Store as a young adult.

When I got my “big break” in journalism I was thrilled to finally be able to merge my passion for tech and knowledge for Apple with my talent for writing. After working for a few years at iMore, an Apple-enthusiast site, I moved to TechRadar to cover AI, ready to take on a new challenge that I thought would, yet again, be shaped by some kind of Apple-infused impact: Apple Intelligence.

Fast forward to now, I’ve been part of the Apple Intelligence journey since day one, covering all the major AI announcements at WWDC 2024 and using Apple’s take on “AI for the rest of us.” since its very early beta days.

At first, the Apple Intelligence features were confusing, with tools scattered across the UI, but Apple’s take that AI should be there for when users need it rather than forced down their throats felt like a refreshing approach to the tech world’s favorite buzzword that’s hard to avoid.

The thing is, the more we fast forward through the first year of Apple advertising AI as the headline feature in all its hero products, the more the cracks have begun to show, and there’s no more damning visual than Apple’s need to push back (with no timeframe) the key to Apple Intelligence’s success, Siri.

(Image credit: Apple)

I was off work last week, so I missed the whole announcement of the delay to the upcoming Apple Intelligence-powered Siri where an Apple spokesperson said, “It is going to take us longer than we thought to deliver on these features and we anticipate rolling them out in the coming year.” Off the grid, I had no idea what was waiting for me on Monday morning, and when I saw the news the disappointment hit me like a tonne of bricks.

You see, I’ve championed Apple Intelligence for months. Not so much because of its “intelligence” but because I have full belief in Apple’s ability to do something the right way, and based on the company’s track record it would’ve been a safe bet to place.

I’ve been writing about how I believed consumer AI’s success was reliant on Apple Intelligence’s success and if any company in the world could make AI make sense for my nephew and my parents alike then it would be Apple.

Over the last nine months, I’ve tested everything Apple Intelligence has to offer, from features that I’ve used once and not touched since like Writing Tools to the more endearing options like Genmoji.

When it launched I said “Apple is onto something with Genmoji, and it might just be the best Apple Intelligence feature, ready to expose other AI tools to the average customer” to this day I use the AI tool whenever regular emojis just don’t fit the situation.

But let’s be real, the Genomji, Image Playground features of the world are not needle movers, they are simply nice-to-haves that come in handy whenever you want to cheer up a friend or family member. The Siri showcased at WWDC 2024, on the other hand, is a needle mover, a system seller if you will - that would be if it actually existed.

I’ve been talking with my colleague and TechRadar’s US Managing News Editor, Jacob Krol, about this for months and how I was starting to worry about Apple Intelligence’s prowess considering we hadn’t really seen anything to suggest it was even capable of improving people’s lives in the way Apple would make you believe.

John Gruber’s damning criticism of Apple’s AI situation captured that feeling perfectly, highlighting the lack of even a guided demo or showcase of Siri 2.0 at WWDC in June or at the launch of the iPhone 16 in September, leaving the question: Does it even exist?

In recent times, Apple’s AirPower charging mat springs to mind. I remember working at the Apple Store when it was announced and the excitement from customers who wanted an easy-to-use wireless charging solution that could charge multiple devices at once. Then… nothing. AirPower was never released, and two years after its initial announcement in 2017 the product was canceled and sent into the abyss.

AirPower was a fairly niche product, unlike Apple Intelligence which Apple has been touting as the main selling point of the current best iPhones, the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Pro.

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After the unveiling of the iPhone 16 in September, I wrote an article highlighting my dismay with the Apple Intelligence launch. The piece was titled “The Apple Intelligence launch is a mess – don’t buy the iPhone 16 or install iOS 18 based on the promise of what’s to come” emphasizing the fact that Apple was selling consumers a smartphone that wasn’t shipping with any of its headlining features.

I said, “This is where my bigger concern lies: the promises of what’s to come. I’ve used Apple Intelligence as part of the iOS 18.1 developer beta and I like what I’ve tried so far, but Genmoji, Image Playground, and the wonder of an actually useful Siri are all just pipedreams right now. No one outside of Apple has even seen these AI tools in the flesh; they aren’t even in beta testing yet as part of a Developer Beta.”

Since then, we’ve seen Genmoji and Image Playground, in fact, they are now available on compatible devices, but Siri (the feature we’re all waiting for) is still nowhere to be seen. It was meant to launch as part of iOS 18.4 in April or May, and I was waiting patiently, giving Apple the benefit of the doubt, hoping for Siri to bring the keys to unlock AI on the iPhone.

I’ve had countless conversations with colleagues where I’ve explained how it’s tricky to critique Apple Intelligence fairly without having all the pieces to the puzzle, and how Apple’s “beta” moniker makes it unfair to criticize. But honestly, with this Siri delay and delving deeper into the capabilities of Android with Gemini integration, I feel completely let down by Apple and I feel like it’s only right to make that clear.

If I had to describe Apple Intelligence, the umbrella term for all things AI in iPhone, iPad, and Mac, I’d call it underwhelming. There’s not one AI tool on my iPhone 16 Pro right now that fulfills Apple’s ultimate goal of simplifying life. It’s so insignificant, in fact, that I had it switched off after an update for about two weeks without even noticing the AI features were disabled.

If Siri’s Apple Intelligence upgrade was available then we’d be a step closer to the personal assistant in your pocket that everyone is hopeful for, but as it stands iPhone users and loyal Apple customers are living in the AI-less past while even non-flagship smartphones like Google’s Pixel 8a have excellent AI integration.

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I’ll admit it, I’m sometimes blinded by the Apple bubble and therefore spend most of my life using Apple products instead of the competition. Because of that, I think sometimes Apple's aura clouds purchasing decisions and consumers miss out on the capabilities of the other side.

I know the grass isn’t always greener, but when it comes to AI it definitely is. Take Gemini in Gmail for example, which allows users to quickly ask AI to help take control of their emails right from the Gmail app, it’s a neat feature and the kind of useful AI tool that serves a purpose, not just a nice-to-have.

Gemini is integrated throughout Android 15 and now that Apple has decided to delay Siri even longer, those of us who trusted the concept of Apple Intelligence are being punished. I don’t have faith that the iPhone 16, a device sold as the best place for Apple Intelligence, will even have a Siri capable of Gemini’s prowess before the iPhone 17 launches – and that’s just not cool Apple.

We’ve become accustomed to Apple doing what’s right for its consumers and ultimately creating hardware and software that’s beautiful to look at and easy to understand. With AI it feels like Apple was blindsided and has taken for granted just how quickly artificial intelligence would become part of our daily lives.

In the past Apple has been able to hide behind limitations by marketing them with its consumers in mind: Siri isn’t as good as Alexa or Google Assistant because Apple doesn’t access your data.

But when it comes to AI, the privacy focus doesn’t bear the same weight. Competitors, while not offering the same world-class privacy and security as Apple, have caught up to a certain extent and consumers want AI that genuinely makes a difference, removing the mundane from their lives. That means that people are more likely to overlook things that might’ve been a sticking point in the past, purely to gain access to tools that significantly enhance the user experience.

I could write about this situation all day, but I’m going to push the brakes. Ultimately, Apple has overpromised and by doing so has significantly disappointed its most loyal customers. Owning a flagship iPhone with a gorgeous OLED display and an incredibly fast Apple-produced chip means nothing if the software is living in the past compared to its competitors.

Whether you like AI or not, the last year has proven that this is one of the most significant software productivity jumps we’ve ever seen, and unless Apple gets its game together it’s going to be completely left in the dust.

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• A new version of RCS is on the way that will allow encrypted messaging between iOS and Android
• Apple has previously never offered encrypted messaging outside the iMessage standard
• This follows Apple's adoption of unencrypted RCS last year

A new announcement from the GSM Association confirms Apple is bringing end-to-end encryption to RCS messaging on iPhone for the first time, marking a major step for cross-platform communications.

Encrypted messaging on iPhone was previously limited to Apple’s own iMessage standard, which is only available to Apple users and as such is only possible between two or more iPhones or other Apple devices.

Apple initially enabled RCS on iPhone in 2024, after 17 years of forcing iPhone users to text other platforms over SMS, with the caveat that end-to-end encryption would not be an available feature.

Now, the GSM Association – the non-profit industry body that represents the world’s mobile network operators – confirms that a multitude of industry partners, including Apple, have collaborated on a new RCS standard that supports end-to-end encryption across multiple platforms.

Apple spokesperson Shane Bauer told The Verge: “We will add support for end-to-end encrypted RCS messages to iOS, iPadOS, macOS, and watchOS in future software updates.”

RCS, which stands for Rich Communication Services, has been the standard of choice for the Android phones for a few years now, but Apple has been slow to adopt the universally available communication protocol.

From the beginnings of the iPhone in 2007 up until last year, Apple only allowed iPhones to text other kinds of phones over SMS, which offers no encryption and very limited options for sharing media.

End-to-end encryption, where messages are only displayed in deciphered form to senders and recipients, is a key selling point of RCS and a proudly-touted feature of other major messaging services like WhatsApp.

My take: a win for everybody

(Image credit: Shutterstock / DenPhotos)

As TechRadar’s mobile computing staff writer, I see my fair share of Apple cynicism, but having gotten my frustration at Apple for delaying the adoption of RCS mostly out of my system last year, I’m feeling optimistic about this latest announcement.

As the iOS and Android ecosystems continue to diversify, it’s becoming increasingly obvious that the duopoly of Apple and Google isn’t going away any time soon, and with the best iPhones and the best Android phones all offering top-flight performance and feature sets, its likely the people in your life will represent a blend of the two user bases.

This new version of RCS is a win for everybody: better communication over a secure channel, without the need for third-party apps. I’m particularly glad that less tech-savvy users will be able to rely on Apple’s default Messages app to keep their texts and sent media secure.

I’m also glad to see Apple showing a bit of willingness to collaborate with its rival for the greater benefit of its user base. Apple continues to show itself as a company that genuinely cares about user privacy – even if, we recently saw in the UK, that means battling with governments to achieve its vision of data protection.

What do you think of this announcement? Is Apple on the right track, or is this too little, too late? Let us know in the comments.

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• Wix announces a new automation builder
• The tool aims to save businesses time by making it easier to automate repetitive tasks
• The platform features a "dynamic visual canvas" and includes built-in email automation capabilities

Wix, one of the market's best website builders, just launched a new automation builder designed to streamline business workflows through a customizable automation engine.

In a press release shared with TechRadar Pro earlier this week, the company said that the tool features a “dynamic visual canvas” that allows users to design, modify, and manage complex automation logic with ease.

Since all of task management is handled from a single automation table, the process is centralized and allows users to track trigger counts, monitor key metrics, view workflow summaries, and make real-time adjustments.

Furthermore, the automation builder incorporates conditions and formulas, allowing users to create workflows that “adapt dynamically to business needs”.

Wix says that the feature should help businesses automate repetitive tasks and customize processes based on real-time information, thus improving operational efficiency.

Available now

The automation builder is integrated with Wix Services, meaning businesses can leverage contextual data to build intelligent solutions.

For example, companies can generate personalized discount codes based on a customer's purchase history, spending habits, or specific items that they bought in the past.

Businesses can also automate notifications, such as sending appointment reminders, invoice due alerts, or follow-up emails for abandoned carts.

The platform includes built-in email automation capabilities that provide detailed engagement statistics, Wix further explained, stating that users get to track email open rates, click-through rates, and other performance indicators.

Automated SMS messaging is also available, giving businesses an additional channel to reach customers with timely updates, offers, or reminders. Users receive a limited number of free actions, though, such as sending emails and SMS. Extra options can be unlocked through premium upgrades, Wix said, although it did not elaborate on what these were.

The Wix automation builder is now available on both Wix and Wix Studio, offering a new solution for businesses looking to optimize workflows and improve customer engagement.

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• GitLab releases patch for nine flaws, including two critical severity ones
• The critical flaws allowed threat actors to bypass authentication and could lead to data exfiltration
• Patch is available now, with GitLab urging users to apply it

GitLab has patched nine vulnerabilities affecting its Community Edition (CE) and Enterprise Edition (EE) solutions, and urged users to apply the patch immediately.

In a security advisory published, GitLab said that among the nine flaws are two critical severity ones, which allow threat actors to bypass authentication.

Users are urged to bring their GitLab CE/EE to versions 17.7.7, 17.8.5, and 17.9.2, as soon as possible. GitLab.com is already patched, and GitLab Dedicated customers will be updated automatically, so no action is required on their end. However, users who run self-managed installations will need to patch up, as well.

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Mitigating and patching

"We strongly recommend that all installations running a version affected by the issues described below are upgraded to the latest version as soon as possible," GitLab said.

The two critical severity flaws are tracked as CVE-2025-25291 and CVE-2025-25292. They were both discovered in the ruby-saml library, which is used for SAML Single Sign-On (SSO) authentication at the instance or group level. An authenticated attacker, with access to a valid signed SAML document, can impersonate another user with the same SAML Identity Provider (IdP) environment, and thus gain access to their account.

This, in turn, could lead to data exfiltration, privilege escalation, and more.

Users who cannot apply the patch immediately should mitigate the risk by making sure all users on GitLab self-managed instances have 2FA set up (2FA at the identity provider level does not help). They should also disable the SAML two-factor bypass option, and should request admin approval for auto-created users.

GitLab stressed that these should only be seen as temporary mitigations, and that the only way to permanently address the issue is to apply the patch.

GitHub says its platform is not affected by this discovery, since it stopped using the ruby-saml library more than a decade ago,, BleepingComputer found.

"GitHub doesn't currently use ruby-saml for authentication, but began evaluating the use of the library with the intention of using an open source library for SAML authentication once more," GitHub said.

Via BleepingComputer

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Data centers are playing an increasingly key role in the modern digital economy, but as demand for these critical infrastructures continues to grow, ensuring their sustainable operation becomes increasingly important. By adopting innovative strategies and cutting-edge technologies, data centers can enhance their environmental performance and achieve greater energy efficiency. Retrofitting existing facilities (upgrading rather than building anew) provides an innovative way to achieve these goals while maximizing the value of existing resources.

Far from simply being a stopgap measure, retrofitting breathes new life into legacy buildings, unlocking efficiencies, potentially lowering carbon emissions, and maximizing the use of existing resources. Delivered well, it helps ensure uninterrupted operations while setting a benchmark for sustainability in urban environments.

Managing complexity and leveraging opportunities

Upgrading an operational data center is a complex undertaking, where maintaining uninterrupted service becomes a critical challenge. These facilities often support critical functions for sectors such as finance, healthcare, and public safety. Consequently, planning upgrades while minimizing downtime requires precision and creativity.

Older buildings present additional challenges. Legacy facilities may struggle to support advancements in technology such as high-density server racks that support Artificial Intelligence applications and advanced cooling solutions due to the limited availability of space within existing data halls. Here, retrofitting efforts must carefully navigate these spatial constraints, adding further intricacies to the process.

Cooling systems are among the most energy-intensive components of any data center, making them a central focus for retrofitting projects. Traditional water-based cooling methods, while effective, pose challenges in regions already grappling with water scarcity. To address this, modernization efforts are exploring innovative alternatives such as air-based cooling systems and advanced energy-efficient designs. These solutions not only alleviate pressure on water resources but also offer the dual benefit of reducing operational costs while helping operators meet their sustainability objectives.

Energy optimization is another key focus, with advanced techniques transforming how cooling is managed. Implementing hot and cold aisle containment systems, for example, enhances airflow by preventing the mixing of hot and cold air, directing cooling efforts precisely where they’re most needed.

This targeted approach enhances efficiency while reducing overall energy consumption. Economizers, which tap into free cooling methods by utilizing outside air, add another layer of innovation. Together, these measures provide significant environmental benefits while lowering operating costs, demonstrating how modernization can achieve both sustainability and financial efficiency.

Embracing a circular sustainability model

Beyond technological upgrades, retrofitting aligns perfectly with the principles of a circular economy. By reusing and repurposing materials during upgrades, operators can reduce construction waste and lower embodied carbon.

Salvaged materials such as metals, furniture, and equipment can, for instance, be donated to local charities, schools, and businesses, turning what might have been waste into valuable resources. This approach not only mitigates environmental impact but also fosters community engagement. A recent Telehouse project in London generated over £30,000 for local charities by recycling extracted materials, directly supporting community initiatives and decreasing landfill contributions.

This model of sustainability extends to operational practices as well. Retrofitting offers the opportunity to integrate energy from renewable sources and energy-efficient systems. Facilities can also incorporate solar panels, on-site battery storage, and advanced power management systems to reduce reliance on fossil fuels.

These improvements not only help operators meet their own ESG goals but also make retrofitted facilities more attractive to clients with their own sustainability commitments. In a market where environmental considerations increasingly influence decision-making, the ability to demonstrate greener practices provides a competitive edge.

Building resilience and community impact

The benefits of retrofitting extend beyond environmental improvements. Engaging with and supporting the community are essential elements of successful projects, especially in urban areas. Modernization initiatives often create local jobs in construction, engineering, and project management, while also supporting apprenticeships in fields such as electrical systems, HVAC maintenance, and sustainable design. This contributes to both economic and social resilience.

Additionally, thoughtful project planning can ensure that disruptions to surrounding areas are minimized, whether by managing construction noise or adopting green procurement practices to reduce transport emissions. Some projects even involve outreach efforts, such as introducing young people to careers in data center management and construction, ensuring a steady flow of local talent for the future.

When carried out with care, retrofitting projects can have a positive impact beyond the data center itself, acting as catalysts for community improvement. By integrating charitable activities, educational opportunities, and sustainable design, operators can leave a lasting legacy that benefits both people and the wider environment.

A vision for the data center future

As the data center industry continues to evolve, retrofitting is set to play an increasingly pivotal role in shaping its future. Advances in technology, such as liquid cooling systems and heat reuse capabilities, promise even greater efficiencies, allowing facilities to achieve more with fewer resources.

Urban settings, where space is limited, present unique challenges. Retrofitting older facilities provides a practical solution by transforming them into state-of-the-art hubs that meet modern demands while preserving valuable real estate. This approach also avoids many of the logistical and regulatory hurdles associated with developing new builds in densely built areas.

Collaboration is key to fully realizing the potential of retrofitting. Operators, engineers, local authorities, and community stakeholders must work together to share knowledge, adopt best practices, and scale successful models across the industry.

Ultimately, retrofitting is about more than just modernizing data centers. It’s about creating a smarter, greener future - one where innovation, sustainability, and community impact go hand in hand. For operators, the message is clear: retrofitting isn’t merely a choice; it’s a responsibility and an opportunity to lead by example.

Transforming data centers has emerged as a crucial strategy in the pursuit of sustainable modernization. By enhancing energy efficiency, optimizing operational capacity, and fostering community and environmental benefits, this approach addresses both current demands and future challenges. As the industry progresses, embracing modernization will be essential in building resilient, data centers that support the ever-growing digital economy while contributing positively to the communities they serve.

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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

Xbox is reportedly working with PC hardware giant Asus to make its first handheld console, which could be released at the end of 2025.

This news comes from Jez Corden at our sibling publication Windows Central, who reported that his sources have corroborated claims made by reporter Tom Warren at The Verge that the Xbox handle – apparently codenamed Project Kennan – will be made in partnership with Asus.

All this follows a report from a few days ago that noted Xbox is reportedly teaming up with a mystery manufacturer to launch a PC gaming handheld this year.

From a purely logical standpoint, Asus as a hardware partner makes a lot of sense given it already has the ROG Ally, which is a fairly robust Windows 11 handheld PC that can run games in the Xbox Game Pass PC catalog both natively and via cloud-powered streaming.

And as Corden reports, the Xbox handheld will resemble a ROG Ally in a lot of respects, only with design cues that make it more of a device one would associate with the Xbox brand; I’d expect to see an Xbox Wireless Controller button layout and triggers with a glowing Xbox home button.

“According to our trusted sources, Kennan will blend Asus' stylings with updated design conventions more typical of an ‘Xbox’ style device, with more prominent grips and a dedicated Xbox guide-style button,” said Corden.

A perfect Ally?

(Image credit: Future)

But logic aside, this information raises one of my eyebrows a little. First off, this may just be a new ROG Ally, perhaps even a full second-generation model that may simply have more tightly integrated Xbox elements rather than being an Xbox-first machine.

My colleague Matt Hanson, Managing Editor of Core Tech at TechRadar, told me he thinks a full Xbox-centric ROG Ally-type machine is a tad unlikely, though did note an Xbox-branded version of Windows 11 that's better for handhelds would certainly be welcome.

I’m inclined to agree with that view as it leads me to my second point: I’d expect a dedicated Xbox handheld to come running a version of the Xbox operating system rather than anything that's identifiably Windows 11 in a practical sense. This approach would likely tighter integrate the hardware with the software and cut out the overheads needed for running what’s a fully-fledged operating system on the current ROG Ally models.

Equally, I’d be surprised if Asus were to make an ROG Ally that didn’t have full Windows 11 support, and thus access to a whole range of PC gaming services and stores. So I could definitely see a next-gen ROG Ally of sorts take on Windows 11 that’s better tuned for handheld gaming than it currently is.

(Image credit: Backbone)

On the flipside I could also see Microsoft having its own Xbox handheld with an interface very much like the Xbox Series X; this could still be made by Asus on the hardware side but not have any software involvement from the company.

Such a machine would be tuned for running Xbox games rather than having a heavy PC element, which could then yield better performance than one might expect from a handheld PC due to the aforementioned tighter hardware and software integration.

"I could also see Microsoft having its own Xbox handheld with an interface very much like the Xbox Series X"

That’s something I’d particularly want as it would be the key for such an Xbox device to stand out from the other handheld PCs that all have access to the Xbox gaming platform in one way or another.

However, the reports tend to indicate that the Xbox handheld will be designed to run PC titles rather than native Xbox games.

So my speculation might not hold much weight here, especially with Microsoft seemingly trying to better integrate the Xbox ecosystem with the Microsoft one.

(Image credit: Steam / Asus)

Given the ROG Ally is arguably the closest rival to the excellent Valve Steam Deck, I do think Asus would probably be the best hardware partner for an Xbox handheld. But my hope is whatever device gets cooked up, it stands a little apart from the current crop of handheld PC and instead sports some of the clean and slick design language seen in Microsoft’s Surface devices.

Time will tell how this all plays out but with Xbox boss Phil Spencer having confirmed Microsoft is working on a handheld games console, we could see something sooner than later.

In the here and now, if you want to play Xbox games on a handheld the ROG Ally is probably your best bet out of the box, but with a bit of patience and digging you can get the Steam Deck to run Xbox Cloud Gaming in a rather effective fashion; it was how I finished Starfield's main quest a while back, so give it a go.

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Looking for a different day?

A new NYT Connections puzzle appears at midnight each day for your time zone – which means that some people are always playing 'today's game' while others are playing 'yesterday's'. If you're looking for Friday's puzzle instead then click here: NYT Connections hints and answers for Friday, March 14 (game #642).

Good morning! Let's play Connections, the NYT's clever word game that challenges you to group answers in various categories. It can be tough, so read on if you need Connections hints.

What should you do once you've finished? Why, play some more word games of course. I've also got daily Strands hints and answers and Quordle hints and answers articles if you need help for those too, while Marc's Wordle today page covers the original viral word game.

SPOILER WARNING: Information about NYT Connections today is below, so don't read on if you don't want to know the answers.

NYT Connections today (game #643) - today's words

(Image credit: New York Times)

Today's NYT Connections words are…

• PEG
• SUE
• MOVE
• NEEDLE
• MAY
• BARB
• NECK
• TONIGHT
• BRIDGE
• MIGHT
• WISH
• STRING
• BRISTLE
• SERVE
• SPINE
• CHARGE

NYT Connections today (game #643) - hint #1 - group hints

What are some clues for today's NYT Connections groups?

• YELLOW: Pointy 
• GREEN: Plucky devices
• BLUE: See you in court
• PURPLE: Nursery rhyme words

Need more clues?

We're firmly in spoiler territory now, but read on if you want to know what the four theme answers are for today's NYT Connections puzzles…

NYT Connections today (game #643) - hint #2 - group answers

What are the answers for today's NYT Connections groups?

• YELLOW: SHARP PROTRUSION 
• GREEN: FEATURES OF STRINGED INSTRUMENTS 
• BLUE: LITIGATION VERBS 
• PURPLE: IN "STAR LIGHT, STAR BRIGHT" 

Right, the answers are below, so DO NOT SCROLL ANY FURTHER IF YOU DON'T WANT TO SEE THEM.

NYT Connections today (game #643) - the answers

(Image credit: New York Times)

The answers to today's Connections, game #643, are…

• YELLOW: IMPOSE, AS A PENALTY ASSESS, CHARGE, FINE, LEVY
• GREEN: CHECKOUT LINE IMPULSE BUYS CANDY, CHAPSTICK, CHARGING CABLE, MAGAZINE
• BLUE: MOVIES OF VARIOUS LENGTHS EPIC, FEATURE, FILM SERIES, SHORT
• PURPLE: ___ ROAD DIRT, HIGH, ROCKY, SILK

• My rating: Moderate
• My score: 2 mistakes

Thanks to PEG and SUE, my first thought today was the song Peggy Sue by Buddy Holly. Being a classic of the rock'n'roll era it did help guide me towards the Green group – although I did initially think I was looking for parts of a guitar, rather than the more general FEATURES OF STRINGED INSTRUMENTS.

SHARP PROTRUSION I got after making a mistake by thinking it was about heckling someone, so I had PEG instead of SPINE before then thinking it had something to do with hedgehogs – which was sort of correct.

My next mistake was thinking there was a group that was linked by dithering (oh, the irony) with MAY, MIGHT and WISH. It took me foolishly adding SUE and getting “one away” before I saw LITIGATION VERBS. A case of trial and error.

How did you do today? Let me know in the comments below.

Yesterday's NYT Connections answers (Friday, 14 March, game #642)

• YELLOW: IMPOSE, AS A PENALTY ASSESS, CHARGE, FINE, LEVY
• GREEN: CHECKOUT LINE IMPULSE BUYS CANDY, CHAPSTICK, CHARGING CABLE, MAGAZINE
• BLUE: MOVIES OF VARIOUS LENGTHS EPIC, FEATURE, FILM SERIES, SHORT
• PURPLE: ___ ROAD DIRT, HIGH, ROCKY, SILK

What is NYT Connections?

NYT Connections is one of several increasingly popular word games made by the New York Times. It challenges you to find groups of four items that share something in common, and each group has a different difficulty level: green is easy, yellow a little harder, blue often quite tough and purple usually very difficult.

On the plus side, you don't technically need to solve the final one, as you'll be able to answer that one by a process of elimination. What's more, you can make up to four mistakes, which gives you a little bit of breathing room.

It's a little more involved than something like Wordle, however, and there are plenty of opportunities for the game to trip you up with tricks. For instance, watch out for homophones and other word games that could disguise the answers.

It's playable for free via the NYT Games site on desktop or mobile.

Looking for a different day?

A new NYT Strands puzzle appears at midnight each day for your time zone – which means that some people are always playing 'today's game' while others are playing 'yesterday's'. If you're looking for Friday's puzzle instead then click here: NYT Strands hints and answers for Friday, March 14 (game #376).

Strands is the NYT's latest word game after the likes of Wordle, Spelling Bee and Connections – and it's great fun. It can be difficult, though, so read on for my Strands hints.

Want more word-based fun? Then check out my NYT Connections today and Quordle today pages for hints and answers for those games, and Marc's Wordle today page for the original viral word game.

SPOILER WARNING: Information about NYT Strands today is below, so don't read on if you don't want to know the answers.

NYT Strands today (game #377) - hint #1 - today's theme What is the theme of today's NYT Strands?

• Today's NYT Strands theme is… Free for all

NYT Strands today (game #377) - hint #2 - clue words

Play any of these words to unlock the in-game hints system.

• ROYAL
• SNAG
• WEDGE
• BLOT
• BARD
• ROAD

NYT Strands today (game #377) - hint #3 - spangram letters How many letters are in today's spangram?

• Spangram has 7 letters

NYT Strands today (game #377) - hint #4 - spangram position What are two sides of the board that today's spangram touches?

First side: left, 5th row

Last side: right, 4th row

Right, the answers are below, so DO NOT SCROLL ANY FURTHER IF YOU DON'T WANT TO SEE THEM.

NYT Strands today (game #377) - the answers

(Image credit: New York Times)

The answers to today's Strands, game #377, are…

• NOTEBOOK
• LANYARD
• TOTE
• DECAL
• SHIRT
• BOTTLE
• PENCIL
• SPANGRAM: SWAG BAG

• My rating: Moderate
• My score: 1 hint

In the UK there’s a famous businessman called Sir Alan Sugar (like Donald Trump he's made his name on our version of The Apprentice) who has a word he likes to use for the objects listed in today’s search. He calls it “toot”, in other words cheap items that have little value other than that you can add with marketing nous.

Anyone who’s been to a conference or launch event will be familiar with the SWAG BAG described and despite the fact that you know will never use the TOTE or BOTTLE (mainly on account of it being toot) you can’t help but be thrilled at receiving all this stuff for free. It’s a very strange transaction.

The best swag bags I ever got were at the end of the marathons I used to do; then you’d get really vital stuff like a banana, an energy bar and some water. In this kind of circumstance they’d never put in a PENCIL in, on the off-chance that some exhausted runner accidentally would eat it.

How did you do today? Let me know in the comments below.

Yesterday's NYT Strands answers (Friday, 14 March, game #376)

• APPLE
• PEACH
• PECAN
• CHERRY
• PUMPKIN
• BLUEBERRY
• SPANGRAM: CLASSIC PIES

What is NYT Strands?

Strands is the NYT's not-so-new-any-more word game, following Wordle and Connections. It's now a fully fledged member of the NYT's games stable that has been running for a year and which can be played on the NYT Games site on desktop or mobile.

I've got a full guide to how to play NYT Strands, complete with tips for solving it, so check that out if you're struggling to beat it each day.

The best streaming services have such a packed roster of new releases this weekend that I suspect some, if not all, of them will make the cut for your growing watchlists. Indeed, there's plenty to enjoy on Apple TV+, Disney+, Max, Netflix, and Prime Video over the coming days.

From an ambitious sci-fi flick starring Millie Bobby Brown and Chris Pratt, to the highly-anticipated streaming debut of a Disney blockbuster and the return of an adored fantasy series, I'm not even sure where I'll start with so many unmissable new movies and shows. Happy St Patrick’s Day weekend all! – Amelia Schwanke, senior entertainment editor

Moana 2 (Disney+)

Not to be outdone by its predecessor Moana , which is the most streamed movie of the past five years, Moana 2 was a box-office success in its own right. Even though it didn't score high enough to land a spot on our best Disney+ movies (its current critical Rotten Tomatoes rating sits at 61%), it was a hit among audiences, so it's the perfect escape this weekend whether you're a Disney fan or you want something to entertain the kids.

As I explored in my Moana 2 review, I had a fun time with it. However, I was saddened we didn't see enough of my favorite character, but considering there's even more Moana coming our way soon, hopefully that will change. – Lucy Buglass, senior entertainment writer

• Watch Moana 2 on Disney+

The Wheel of Time season 3 (Prime Video)

I've had a somewhat complex relationship with The Wheel of Time. Its first season was great but, in my view, the Prime Video fantasy series suffered from the so-called 'sophomore slump' with its second outing.

Thankfully, The Wheel of Time season 3 gets the live-action adaptation of Robert Jordan's beloved novel series back on track. You can read more about why I think it's a magical return to form for the Amazon TV Original in my review of The Wheel of Time's third season. Suffice it to say, it'll keep its place on our best Prime Video shows list.

Want to read more about it? Check out my interviews with The Wheel of Time 3's cast or get the lowdown on its latest chapter by reading my dedicated guide to The Wheel of Time season 3. You'll be left spellbound, I promise! – Tom Power, senior entertainment reporter

• Watch The Wheel of Time season 3 on Prime Video

The Electric State (Netflix)

Arguably the pick of the bunch when it comes to March's new Netflix movies line-up, The Electric State could've been a shoo-in for our best Netflix movies guide.

Unfortunately, the Mille Bobby Brown and Chris Pratt-starring sci-fi flick is a shockingly bad movie. Indeed, I didn't hold back in my review of The Electric State, which just goes to show that you can't just throw money at something (it cost a reported $320 million, for goodness sake!) and hope to make a good film. My advice? Go and read Simon Stålenhag's graphic novel namesake, or stream another of his book adaptations – Prime Video's Tales from the Loop TV show – instead. – TP

• Watch The Electric State on Netflix

Adolescence (Netflix)

Adolescence is a new Netflix murder thriller with an interesting twist: each episode is filmed as if it's one continuous shot. Adolescence's official trailer doesn’t fully embrace its 'oner' style, I was immediately gripped by its timely premise about a 13-year-old boy who is arrested for murdering a girl at his school.

The four-part crime drama follows the boy’s family, therapist, and the police detective in charge of the case as they question what really happened. Adolescence features a star-studded British cast, with Stephen Graham and Erin Doherty joining forces once again after appearing together in A Thousand Blows earlier this year.

With 100% on Rotten Tomatoes, Adolescence goes down as one of the best Netflix shows as it touches upon timely issues of youth violence and society pressures of what it means to be masculine. – Grace Morris, entertainment writer

• Watch Adolescence on Netflix

Dope Thief (Apple TV+)

When Apple TV+ released the trailer for Dope Thief, many couldn't help but compare the gritty new crime drama to The Wire, and I completely understand why. Not only are both series based on books, but they also focus on showcasing the blurred line between cops and criminals.

In Dope Thief, Brian Tyree Henry and Wagner Moura play two Philadelphia-based friends who pretend to be DEA agents to rob a house in the countryside that ends up being the base of the biggest hidden narcotics operation in the East Coast.

Created by Peter Craig, who's written the scripts for some of the best crime movies like The Town and The Batman, this series has the potential to be one of the best Apple TV+ shows. – AS

• Watch Dope Thief on Apple TV+

The Parenting (Max)

Max is killing it (no pun intended) with the horror releases lately. But, if it's some horror comedy you're after, The Parenting is sure to scratch that itch as it's far less intense than some of the best horror movies on Max, providing some light relief while giving genre fans something to dive into.

Having said that, it debuted to very mixed reactions as, at the time of writing, it holds a 50% critical Rotten Tomatoes score. That does mean it won't be on our best Max movies round-up but, if you want to make your own mind up about the divisive new movie about a 400-year-old poltergeist, it's probably worth checking out. – LB

• Watch The Parenting on Max

Everybody's Live with John Mulaney (Netflix)

Emmy Award-winning comedian John Mulaney hosts this Netflix celebrity sit-down talk show with special guests and musical performances. Everybody’s Live with John Mulaney is scheduled for a 12-week run and airs live on the streaming service on Wednesdays at 7PM PT / 10PM EST in the US, 2AM GMT in the UK, and 1PM AEDT in Australia.

The programme serves as a follow-up to John Mulaney Presents: Everybody's in LA and the first episode, which aired on March 12, featured an all-star cast, including Michael Keaton, Joan Baez, Fred Armisen, Jessica Roy, and music from Cypress Hill. Although Everybody’s Live with John Mulaney has only just begun, it’s 100% on Rotten Tomatoes critical rating means it could give the likes of Jimmy Fallon a run for his money. – GM

• Watch Everybody's Live with John Mulaney on Netflix

For more streaming suggestions, read our guides on the best Disney+ shows, best Hulu movies, best Max shows, and best Paramount+ movies.

• Ted Lasso season 4 is officially in the works for Apple TV+
• The announcement was made today (March 14)
• A fourth season has long been rumored to be in development

It's official: Ted Lasso is dusting off his AFC Richmond gear and returning for a fourth season on Apple TV+.

In a press release, Apple confirmed that it's kicked off development on another installment of one of its most successful TV Originals. Jason Sudeikis, who played the titular US soccer coach in the sports comedy's first three seasons, will reprise his multi-award-winning role in Ted Lasso season 4, too.

A post shared by Apple TV (@appletv)

A photo posted by on

In a statement accompanying the reveal, Sudeikis, who also executively produces one of the best Apple TV+ shows ever made, teased what to expect from the series' forthcoming chapter.

"As we all continue to live in a world where so many factors have conditioned us to ‘look before we leap',” Sudeikis wrote, "Season four [will see] the folks at AFC Richmond learn to 'leap before they look' [and] discovering that, wherever they land, it’s exactly where they’re meant to be."

"Ted Lasso has been nothing short of a juggernaut, inspiring a passionate fanbase all over the world, and delivering endless joy and laughter, all while spreading kindness, compassion and unwavering belief,” Matt Cherniss, head of programming for Apple TV+ Head of Programming, also said in a statement. "Everyone at Apple is thrilled to be continuing our collaboration with Jason and the brilliant creative minds behind this show."

Developing...

• FBI, CISA, and MS-ISAC publish new report on Medusa ransomware
• They claim the group struck hundreds of critical infrastructure firms
• Agencies share advice on how to stay safe

Hundreds of critical infrastructure targets have fallen victim to Medusa ransomware over the last four years, a new US government report has warned, urging organizations to apply known mitigations and minimize the risk of an attack.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation, the US Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), and the Multi-State Information Sharing and Analysis Center (MS-ISAC), have issued a joint report saying more more than 300 organizations in the critical infrastructure sector have already fallen prey to the infamous group

"As of February 2025, Medusa developers and affiliates have impacted over 300 victims from a variety of critical infrastructure sectors with affected industries including medical, education, legal, insurance, technology, and manufacturing," the report says. "FBI, CISA, and MS-ISAC encourage organizations to implement the recommendations in the Mitigations section of this advisory to reduce the likelihood and impact of Medusa ransomware incidents."

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Mitigating risks

The recommendations include mitigating known vulnerabilities and making sure operating systems, software, and firmware are patched on time, segmenting networks to hinder attempts at lateral movement, and filtering network traffic by blocking access from untrusted origins.

Medusa first emerged in 2021, but since it was originally intended to be a closed ransomware variant, its success was somewhat limited. A few years later, the operation evolved into a Ransomware-as-a-Service (RaaS) with an affiliate model, which propelled it into one of the most dangerous variants out there.

"Medusa developers typically recruit initial access brokers (IABs) in cybercriminal forums and marketplaces to obtain initial access to potential victims," the report claims. "Potential payments between $100 USD and $1 million USD are offered to these affiliates with the opportunity to work exclusively for Medusa."

Some of the more notable victims include the Minneapolis Public School District, which suffered a significant breach resulting in the exposure of sensitive information such as psychological reports and abuse allegations. Other affected sectors encompass healthcare, manufacturing, technology, legal, insurance, and education industries.

Via BleepingComputer

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• Apple Music Classical is now available to stream via web browsers
• This is the first platform to receive a designated space for Apple Music Classical since iPad in 2023 and CarPlay in 2024
• There's been no news as to when Mac devices will get a native app for the service

Not only is Apple Music regarded as one of the best music streaming services, but it's home to a never-ending line of radio stations and alternative music services such as Apple Music Classical – which is now available to listen to via a web browser.

The web launch marks the next move in the service’s rollout to other devices, but we’re still waiting for Apple to launch a native app for its Mac lineup.

Global Director of Apple Music Classical, Anjali Malhotra, shared the news of the service’s web version in a release: “Apple Music Classical continues to innovate and expand on its mission to bring great musicians and their recordings to music lovers around the world all in one app. Now that the app is available on the web, Apple Music Classical’s catalog of over 5 million tracks and 50 million datapoints are now available for those who primarily use their desktops to listen to music".

Apple Music Classical launched on Android in 2023. (Image credit: Google/Apple)

Since Apple created its classical music service in 2023 after it bought the music streaming app Primephonic in 2021, Apple Music Classical has mirrored the functions of the standard Apple Music platform but has provided a specific space for fans of classical music to stream over five million tracks. The latest web version of the classical music service introduces a new way for subscribers to enjoy its entire catalog of playlists, composers, and essential period and genre spotlights, but it’s taken Apple a long time to get Apple Music Classical to where it is today.

When Apple first brought out its classical music streaming service a year and a half after its announcement, it was only available via its iPhone app, and it was this way for a little while before it was launched on Android. It seemed as though Apple was neglecting its own family of devices with how limited Apple Music Classical was at the time, but this changed a few months later when it arrived on iPad in November 2023. The last device to receive a designated app for Apple Music Classical was Apple CarPlay in 2024, but there’s still nothing for Mac devices.

So why has Apple Music Classical’s rollout spread taken over two years? The short answer is, we don’t know, and it’s a little strange. Though Apple has left Mac users in the dust once again, the online version of its classical music streaming service is, more or less, Apple’s way of bringing it to Mac devices. We can only venture a guess that Mac devices will be the next target for Apple Music Classical, but we wouldn't be surprised if it took Apple another two years to launch a native app for Mac.

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• Silent Hill f has finally received a new trailer, courtesy of the latest Silent Hill Transmission showcase
• The game will be set in a fictional Japanese town in the 1960s
• No release date yet, but it's set to launch on PS5, Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S and PC

We finally have some new information on Silent Hill f, Konami's latest entry in the legendary psychological horror series.

For the first time since its announcement back in October 2022, Silent Hill f was granted more details via a dedicated Silent Hill Transmission showcase. We received a new three and a half minute trailer for the upcoming game, alongside details on its setting, story, and the artists involved in bringing its world to life.

Silent Hill f is set in the fictional Japanese town of Ebisugaoka, in the 1960s. The setting, as detailed in the Transmission broadcast, is greatly inspired by Kanayama's Gifu Prefecture, and we see several comparison shots of the game world juxtaposed against its real-world inspiration.

Silent Hill f's protagonist is Shimizu Hinako, a seemingly ordinary teenage girl who witnesses her hometown become engulfed in a strange fog. Pulled into this warped version of her town, she'll need to fight terrifying monsters, solve puzzles, and make crucial decisions in order to survive. The story summary concludes by stating Silent Hill f is ultimately "a tale about a beautiful yet terrifying choice."

Developed by Neobards Entertainment, which has previously worked as a support studio for Capcom's Resident Evil series, Silent Hill f also has some eye-catching talent attached to it. The game's story has been penned by Ryukichi07, author of legendary horror visual novel series Higurashi When They Cry.

Furthermore, creature and character design is being handled by Kera, a striking visual artist who has previously worked on Square Enix titles including Lord of Vermillion and the Romancing SaGa series. Renowned series composer Akira Yamaoka is also set to contribute music to Silent Hill f.

The premise of a Silent Hill game being set in Japan is, I feel, an incredibly compelling one. Going off the trailer, the tone greatly reminds me of the Siren series of horror games. I'm intensely curious to know more about this "beautiful yet terrifying choice" the game will have us make, and its theme of finding beauty in terror - and vice versa - has the potential to be endlessly interesting. Not to mention utterly terrifying.

There is no release date for Silent Hill f as of yet. However, the game is slated for release on PS5, Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S, and PC via Steam and the Epic Games Store. You can also wishlist it now on your platform of choice.

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• Tom Clancy's Rainbow Six Siege X has been unveiled
• It will be a free update that takes the popular tactical shooter free-to-play
• It brings new visual overhauls plus a new map and mode

Developer Ubisoft has unveiled Tom Clancy's Rainbow Six Siege X, a successor to Tom Clancy's Rainbow Six Siege that will be released as a free update.

Described as "the biggest evolution in Siege's history," Siege X is set to arrive in June 2025. A brand new reveal gameplay trailer has given us our first real look at the game in action, which you can see for yourself below.

In the trailer we see an all-new game mode: Dual Front. Following a unique 6v6 format, Dual Front will feature dynamic objectives and the ability to pick operators from both the attacking and defending teams from a curated roster of 35.

The game mode even has its own exclusive map and it looks absolutely massive. The pace of this mode definitely seems a lot higher than the more tactical gameplay that most players are used to.

Although I've dabbled with Siege over the years, I'm definitely more of a Call of Duty player and this mode looks like it might finally be enough to pull me away from Black Ops 6.

Siege X will also see major visuals enhancements brought to old maps, including new lighting, enhanced shadows, and 4K textures. At launch, Clubhouse, Chalet, Border, Bank, and Kafe will be improved, with more overhauls coming via future updates.

The trailer also showed off the new rappelling mechanics, which look much more fluid and will even allow you run horizontally and jump around corners.

We also now know that Siege X will be free-to-play, with new players getting access to Dual Front, Unranked, and Quick Play modes and the ability to earn up to 26 operators. You will be able to upgrade to one of the premium editions to unlocked ranked mode.

If you've already bought any version of Rainbow Six Siege then there's no need to worry either. You will retain all previously unlocked and even get some exclusive veteran rewards depending on the year you started playing.

A closed beta for Tom Clancy's Rainbow Six Siege X is available now and will run until March 19 for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S, and PC. You can sign up via the game's official website.

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Netflix is home to all things Harlan Coben and will see its library of the author's TV adaptations expand once more with the new thriller Caught, which is coming to one of the best streaming services on March 26.

Recently, I was blown away by Netflix's eighth adaptation of Coben's, Fool Me Once, but was left disappointed by Missing You, so I've got big hopes that this latest thriller will be another hit and get added to our ever-growing best Netflix shows list.

The trailer has already (I guess you could say) caught my attention, especially since it has one key difference: it's a Spanish-language series, making it different from the other productions based on his beloved thriller novels. The trailer released for Caught has an English dub, and you can watch it below.

What is Caught about?

In Caught, our protagonist is reporter Ema Garay (played by Soledad Villamil), who is known for catching criminals that tend to evade justice, but her life takes an unexpected turn when she meets Leo Mercer (played by Juan Minujín).

Leo is a social worker who ends up being the main suspect in Ema's investigation of the disappearance of a 16-year-old girl. As Netflix's official plot synopsis says, this leads Ema to "unravel a web of interconnected mysteries and suspects".

As always, we're expecting a very intense watch, and there'll no doubt be plenty of twists and turns across the six-part series. I just hope that Caught will be an improvement on previous Coben TV adaptations.

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• TikTok might be exploring a deal with Oracle in the US
• The app has until April 2025 to divest to a US company
• Oracle CEO Larry Ellison is a known Trump ally, and the companies have worked together in the past

As TikTok continues to face an uncertain future in the US, a new report suggests that the social media platform might use Oracle as its American cloud technology partner.

The app must finalize a sale to a US-based buyer by April 2025 to continue operating in the US, however, it’s uncertain whether the company will reach an agreement by the deadline.

TikTok has already been using Oracle’s cloud services since 2022 to store US user data, making it a logical choice rather than moving to an entirely new provider.

TikTok could live on in the US under Oracle

“Oracle has emerged as a leading contender to help run TikTok as part of a deal President Donald Trump is orchestrating to satisfy last year’s divest-or-ban law, say investors, bankers and former executives familiar with the Chinese tech giant,” a report from The Information states.

Despite the potential Oracle partnership, reports suggest ByteDance might still want to maintain some control over the app’s operations.

Politically, US President Donald Trump has shown support for Texas-based Oracle’s role in the deal. The company’s CEO, Larry Ellison, is a known Trump ally, and could have an advantage in securing a deal.

Despite the fact that plans are starting to formulate on US shores, it remains to be seen how the Chinese government will react to the sale of operations to a US-based company – or whether it will even be allowed. As the deadline looms closer, US citizens are set for a suspenseful wait to see whether they can continue using the app which supports creators and businesses across the world.

TechRadar Pro has asked TikTok and Oracle to share any details regarding a potential deal, but neither company immediately responded.

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• Older Chromecast devices have been broken for days
• Google says a fix is now rolling out to users
• But new issues are now affecting the Chromecast with Google TV

It's been a pretty frustrating week for owners of a 2nd-gen Chromecast or Chromecast Audio, but a fix for the bug that's rendered these devices inoperable is now rolling out – just as new issues appear for the newer Chromecast with Google TV.

In a post on the official Nest Community forums (via The Verge), Google says: "We have started to roll out a fix for the problem with Chromecast (2nd gen) and Chromecast Audio devices, which will be completed over the next few days."

You don't need to do anything to get the patch: Google just says your device must be connected for the update to be applied. The problems first started appearing on Monday, so at least some users can resume their streaming in time for the weekend.

However, if you did a factory reset on your Chromecast to try to fix it – a perfectly sensible approach – you need to sit tight. Google says these devices won't get the automatic update, and that it'll provide further instructions "as soon as possible".

Chromecast with Google TV

Google no longer sells the Chromecast with Google TV (Image credit: Google)

With perfect timing, owners of the newer Chromecast with Google TV device – unaffected by the other issues – are now reporting problems of their own. These issues appear to be related to an Android 14 update that rolled out yesterday.

As per 9to5Google, there are numerous reports of bugs, including problems with external USB devices connected to the dongle, changes to the color profile, disappearing settings, and the unit not outputting any sound.

Check one of the Reddit threads about the update, and you'll see that these issues aren't affecting everyone – and some are resolved with a restart. However, it's not a good look for Google just as it's fixing the issues on its other Chromecast devices.

If you have an affected Chromecast with Google TV, see if a restart or a factory reset resolves the problems you're seeing. Google has yet to comment on the latest batch of problems, but we'll let you know if there's an official response.

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• Some iPhone 16e users are experiencing Bluetooth bugs
• Audio can sometimes stutter or cut out, according to the reports
• It’s unclear what exactly is causing this issue, Apple hasn't yet responded

Apple’s iPhone 16e is a complete revamp of the iPhone SE, improving Apple’s budget handset in almost every way. But there’s one area where the new device is apparently struggling for some, prompting widespread complaints from users.

The issue seems to be centered on the iPhone 16e’s Bluetooth audio capabilities. Specifically, many users have noticed that audio from the phone will occasionally stutter or cut out entirely when they are connected to a Bluetooth speaker or headphones. According to some reports, the bug appears when you hook up the phone to multiple Bluetooth devices at the same time.

The problem has been documented by a number of people on Reddit, X, and Apple’s official support forums. These complaints seem to go back a few weeks, suggesting that they might have been present when the iPhone 16e launched in mid-February. We've asked Apple for comment and will update this story if we hear back.

Similar problems don’t seem to be occurring in other devices in the iPhone 16 range in any great numbers, suggesting that the problem could be limited to Apple’s latest phone.

Cause unknown

(Image credit: Future / Lance Ulanoff)

When Apple launched the iPhone 16e, it became the first iPhone to come with Apple’s C1 chip, a cellular modem that handles 5G connectivity. But if you’re thinking that new chip might have something to do with the problem, that’s probably wide of the mark.

That’s because past rumors have claimed that Apple is working on its own in-house Bluetooth chip, but that this is still not ready for production. That means Bluetooth is still handled by other components, just as in other iPhones that are seemingly unaffected by this bug.

That means the cause is still something of a mystery. It’s unclear if the issue relates to iOS (and if so, how), although some users have claimed that updating to the latest iOS 18.3.2 patch does not resolve the problem.

Some users have contacted Apple’s support team, so hopefully the company is aware and working on a fix. With iOS 18.4 on the horizon, we’ve got our fingers crossed this widely reported bug gets swiftly squashed.

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• Cyberark finds website promoting pirated software distributing malware
• One of the malware variants was a cryptojacker running more than 700,000 wallets
• One of the wallets had 600 SOL in it

Cybersecurity researchers have recently uncovered MassJacker, a new malware variant aiming to steal cryptocurrency by replacing cryptocurrency addresses in people’s clipboards.

The team from Cyberark said it recently found a website - pesktop[dot]com, which claims to offer all sorts of pirated software, but in reality, it is distributing different versions of malware, including MassJacker.

It wasn’t said what the malware was posing as, but when victims install MassJacker, it works in the background, keeping track of the computer’s clipboard. When a person copies a cryptocurrency address, it will take note, and replace it with an address belonging to the attacker. That way, when the victim pastes the address, it is pasting a different one from the one they copied, and it is sending money to the attackers instead of whoever they wanted to send it to.

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Hundreds of thousands of dollars

Cryptocurrency addresses are impossible to memorize by heart, as they are a string of 20+ seemingly random characters - which is why most people would keep them stored somewhere, and just copy and paste whenever they wanted to send funds. Cybercriminals see this as an opportunity to steal the money, and as far as MassJacker is concerned - it seems to be working.

Cyberark says MassJacker manages more than 770,000 unique crypto addresses. While most of them were empty, 423 had $95,300 in them, at the time the report had been written. “Adding the money that was previously held in those wallets but had already been transferred out brought the total up to around $336,700,” the researchers concluded.

However, that doesn’t mean that all of that money came from MassJacker. In fact, Cyberark believes that the opposite might actually be true, and that most funds came from “other malicious activities.” That being said, cryptocurrency worth about $87,000 (600 SOL) was found sitting in a single wallet that had 350 transactions.

Via The Hacker News

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