If you’re expecting to see more AI in Windows 11, well, you’d be bang on the money there, as it seems Copilot is creeping into another couple of places in Microsoft’s desktop OS.
Neowin noticed that the latest version of the Copilot app (1.25044.93.0) has planted a new choice to invoke Copilot when working with certain files on your Windows 11 desktop.
So, if you right-click on a compatible file, it’ll offer an ‘Ask Copilot’ option in the context menu (which contains common actions you might like to pursue with any given file).
If you select that Copilot choice, it’ll fire up the app for the AI assistant with relevant options available (for example, if it’s a document, you’ll get the ability to summarize it there and then).
You may have seen that Microsoft recently revealed it’s set to introduce AI actions to File Explorer (the app which displays the contents of the folders on your PC). So, this move appears to be happening now.
Elsewhere, Microsoft is also planning to bring Copilot into the Microsoft Store to advise those browsing through its various wares.
The move – which is still in testing, according to Windows Latest – consists of adding a Copilot button to product pages in the store.
Clicking on that button pops up a small dialog box allowing you to ‘Ask Copilot about this product’ with suggested questions you might want to use, and a ‘compare’ button that allows you to see how the app (or game) stacks up to a rival piece of software.
However, the catch is that this integration in the Microsoft Store is hardly seamless, as all the store does is just throw your query to the Copilot app.
Analysis: Clever or clutter? (Image credit: Future / Jasmine Mannan)With the latter change, the idea is to help spur sales in the Microsoft Store with Copilot, although the integration being so basic isn’t going to help there.
It doesn’t feel very advanced to ask for a comparison of two apps, and to then be simply presented with a query of the differences between them in the Copilot app. Yes, it’s still a convenience, but it feels clunkier than the way it works now – but perhaps Microsoft is thinking of improving it down the line. Remember, this is still in testing for now.
Furthermore, not that many folks ever tread the virtual aisles of the Microsoft Store anyway, and the bigger move here is the wider deployment of Copilot as a right-click, context-sensitive option in Windows 11.
With that concept – which wasn’t unexpected, given Microsoft previously announced that this is the course it’s taking – the problem is it’s going to be a love or hate thing.
Those people who use Copilot will appreciate the convenience of added ways in which to easily access the AI direct from files on the desktop. However, those who don’t care about Copilot aren’t going to want an extra line of space taken up in their right-click menu, and will just regard this as additional clutter.
That said, those haters have choices. Neowin points out that you can perform a Registry edit to remove this new functionality from the right-click menu, but I really wouldn’t recommend that. Not unless you’re tech-savvy, and you want to keep the Copilot app, but not this extra option. (And even then, I should warn that messing with the Registry could cause trouble with your system if not immediately, then potentially down the line).
Rather, if you’re getting fed up with the various tendrils of Copilot extending too far into the interface of Windows 11, just uninstall the Copilot app completely. That’ll remove the AI from your context-sensitive menus (and taskbar, and everywhere else). Just find the app in the Start menu, right click it and choose the uninstall option to banish Copilot. Of course, you won’t be able to use the app at all then, so that’s not a good road to travel for those who might want to occasionally fire up the AI.
Not everything is bad about AI in Windows 11 by any means, and I should note that there’s a smart ability inbound, namely additional powers to be able to find and change settings in the OS (something that was promised from the outset by Microsoft, but never delivered until now). I say delivered now, but this hasn’t gone into testing just yet, and it’s only for Copilot+ PCs sadly (as is the case for another really useful AI-related tweak, better Windows search).
So, that’s another rather unfortunate theme for some folks, as well as AI spreading across more of Windows 11 – all of the best functionality is reserved for Copilot+ PCs. This is because some features require the NPU they have on-board for processing AI workloads on the actual device, rather than via the cloud.
You might also like...Suits LA, the West Coast-set spin-off from the hugely successful show Suits, won't be getting a second season. That makes it the second Suits spin-off to be canceled given that Pearson was canceled last year.
The original Suits was a huge success and introduced us to Meghan Markle, becoming the must-watched show of 2023 when it moved from broadcast TV to Netflix. It was the number one streaming show for 12 consecutive weeks. But Netflix chose not to buy this spin-off, so it wasn't exposed to the same huge potential audience as the original show.
Why Suits' spin-offs don't lastWhile The Hollywood Reporter shared the news of Suits LA's cancellation, it didn't go into the reasons why. But like its fellow spin-off Pearson, the reason is almost certainly poor viewing figures.
As TVLine reported last year, Pearson only averaged 513,000 viewers – half the viewership of Suits Season 9, and lower than all but one USA Network drama at the time (the exception was the final season of Mr Robot, which had 360,000 viewers on average). While 1.07 million people watched the pilot, the finale was watched by 490,000 people – just over half the audience for the Suits finale.
Pearson struggled to find viewers even though it got decent reviews. I suspect Suits LA struggled even more, because its reviews have often been terrible.
The show is currently sitting with just 39% from the critics on Rotten Tomatoes, and just 54% from the audience. As the AV Club put it: "There’s no way to sugarcoat it: Suits LA is a disaster. In every conceivable way, this offshoot fails to capture the original’s breezy allure."
The first and only season of Suits LA is currently streaming on Peacock in the US. While it's not currently streaming in the UK, those in Australia can catch it on 7plus.
You may also likeNintendo has updated its user agreement, toughening its stance on those who pirate games, attempt to emulate titles, or otherwise modify their consoles.
The changes were announced in an email distributed to users in the US and applies to all existing and new Nintendo accounts. Game File reports that the agreement received a little over 100 edits.
Some of the most interesting edits include a massive expansion of a portion that used to state that players "are not allowed to lease, rent, sublicense, publish, copy, modify, adapt, translate, reverse engineer, decompile or disassemble all or any portion of the Nintendo Account Services without Nintendo's written consent, or unless otherwise expressly permitted by applicable law."
Now, it says that: "Without limitation, you agree that you may not (a) publish, copy, modify, reverse engineer, lease, rent, decompile, disassemble, distribute, offer for sale, or create derivative works of any portion of the Nintendo Account Services; (b) bypass, modify, decrypt, defeat, tamper with, or otherwise circumvent any of the functions or protections of the Nintendo Account Services, including through the use of any hardware or software that would cause the Nintendo Account Services to operate other than in accordance with its documentation and intended use; (c) obtain, install or use any unauthorized copies of Nintendo Account Services; or (d) exploit the Nintendo Account Services in any manner other than to use them in accordance with the applicable documentation and intended use, in each case, without Nintendo’s written consent or express authorization, or unless otherwise expressly permitted by applicable law."
Nintendo is effectively now spelling exactly what you're not allowed to do. Being forbidden to "bypass, modify, decrypt, defeat, tamper" with parts of the system completely rules out activities like installing your own homebrew apps. The fact that you are not able to "obtain, install or use any unauthorized copies of Nintendo Account Services" also more strongly emphasizes that any kind of software piracy is not allowed.
As for what could happen if you break these rules, the agreement now states that: "You acknowledge that if you fail to comply with the foregoing restrictions Nintendo may render the Nintendo Account Services and/or the applicable Nintendo device permanently unusable in whole or in part."
This outlines Nintendo's ability to brick your device (render it "permanently unusable in whole") if you don't adhere to the agreement. The company could also potentially disable certain functions (render it unusable "in part") which might, for example, mean preventing cheaters from being able to access online services in games.
The agreement has also been updated in the UK, though the new wording is less drastic. Players in the region now accept that: "Any Digital Products registered to your Nintendo Account and any updates of such Digital Products are licensed only for personal and non-commercial use on a User Device."
"Digital Products must not be used for any other purpose. In particular, without NOE's written consent, you must neither lease nor rent Digital Products nor sublicense, publish, copy, modify, adapt, translate, reverse engineer, decompile or disassemble any portion of Digital Products other than as expressly permitted by applicable law," it continues. "Such unauthorised use of a Digital Product may result in the Digital Product becoming unusable."
These agreements currently apply to the Nintendo Switch, but, unless changed ahead of launch, would also presumably govern your use of the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2. With this in mind, it would be wise to read the new terms carefully and ensure that you don't end up
You might also like...Your next phone could come with a new Bluetooth feature that could make it harder to track you and boost your battery life at the same time, in a double win for any of the best phones that incorporate it. And while we don’t know its exact release date, there’s a chance we could even see it this year.
The feature in question from the new Bluetooth 6.1 protocol is called Randomized RPA Updates, and it’s just been announced as part of the Bluetooth upgrade. In this instance, RPA stands for resolvable private address, and it’s this part that will have an impact on your privacy.
That’s because under Bluetooth 6.0, devices will change their identifier addresses on a set timer, and this predictable process makes them easier to track. With Bluetooth 6.1’s Randomized RPA Updates feature, those address changes will happen randomly, with an interval of between eight and 15 minutes (although this can be customized anywhere from every second to every hour). That eliminates the update pattern, making your device far harder to track and exploit.
This change also affects battery life, as the process can be handled by your phone’s Bluetooth chip rather than its CPU. Lower load on your device’s processor should translate to better efficiency, which in turn means slower battery drain.
When will we see these changes? (Image credit: Brett Jordan / Pexels)Bluetooth 6.1 has only just been revealed as part of the protocol's new bi-annual release schedule, but there’s a chance we might see it in new devices as soon as this year.
Apple, for example, has a decent record for adopting new technologies in its products, so there’s a possibility we could see Bluetooth 6.0 – or perhaps even Bluetooth 6.1 – in its iPhone 17 range.
Still, 2026 feels like a more likely date for Bluetooth 6.1 to debut in phones, both of the Apple and Android variety. Usually with new Bluetooth tech, it’s better not to expect it too soon.
When it does arrive, though, it should bring benefits to both your privacy and your phone’s battery life – and that’s a double bonus for us to look forward to.
You might also likeThe current GPU market is filled with inflated prices for both Nvidia and AMD cards, which may spell bad news for the potential success of upcoming 8GB GPUs — and it looks like that might soon be the case for Team Red.
As reported by Wccftech, the Acer Nitro Radeon RX 9060 XT 8GB GPU has been listed on a Swiss retailer at $566 (around £430 / AU$880), converted from Swiss Franc. This comes alongside the 16GB model listed at $620, and both GPUs are expected to be unveiled at Computex 2025, which starts on May 20.
It's important to highlight the strong possibility that these prices are placeholders; this previously happened with the launch of the Radeon RX 9070 XT, which revealed a $699 launch price via Micro Center. Fortunately, that was indeed a placeholder, as it launched at $599, but that didn't last very long due to retailers raising prices significantly.
However, if the $566 price for the 8GB model is legitimate (or at least close to this figure), AMD and its partners could be in for an uphill struggle to convince consumers that this is a GPU that’s worth buying in 2025. These days, 8GB GPUs are simply not powerful enough to tackle demanding triple-A games, and PC gamers have voiced those frustrations with Nvidia's recent RTX 5060 Ti 8GB variant.
It's worth noting that Wccftech highlights that these prices are most likely placeholders, since they also include listings for RX 9070 XT GPUs above the retail price. Regardless, the current state of the GPU market will likely push prices up to absurd levels, and Best Buy’s GPU listings are a prime example of this.
(Image credit: Acer) If the retail price for the 8GB GPU is anywhere close to $500, it will be dead on arrivalI don't need to stress how underpowered 8GB GPUs are in 2025, as the negative consensus surrounding Nvidia's RTX 5060 Ti makes that clear. These GPUs don't pack enough VRAM to handle the heavy load that comes from games today, and I don't think anyone will be willing to overpay for a GPU that underperforms.
I'm confident that the $566 purported price (based on price conversions) is a placeholder, but that doesn't make me feel much more confident - that's because the trend of partner cards and their prices indicates that it may possibly cost much more after launch.
This happened with the Radeon RX 9070 XT, which you’ll now struggle to find at its $599 retail price. While nobody should be paying over $599 for a GPU that's supposed to be mid-range, the RX 9070 XT is at least a worthwhile GPU. Potentially, the same may not be said about the RX 9060 XT 8GB GPU, but I’m hoping it performs well.
This should be a warning for AMD and its partners; do not price any upcoming 8GB GPUs anywhere close to these prices, because I can almost guarantee that they will be dead on arrival...
You may also like...It's official: Peacemaker season 2 will be streaming on Max from Thursday, August 21 at 9.00pm ET/PT. John Cena will be back as the titular hero, and many villains' butts will be kicked.
The official synopsis says: "The new season follows Christopher 'Chris' Smith, aka Peacemaker, the vigilante Super Hero as he struggles to reconcile his past with his newfound sense of purpose while continuing to kick righteous evil-doer butt in his misguided quest for peace at any cost."
Season 1 stars John Cena, Danielle Brooks, Jennifer Holland, Freddie Stroma, Steve Agee and Robert Patrick are all back, and this time around they're joined by a new cast that includes by Frank Grillo, David Denman, Sol Rodriguez, and Tim Meadows.
As you'll see from the trailer below, the second season looks set to deliver one of the best Max show's trademark mix of whip-cracking action and whip-smart wisecracking. Here's what you need to know.
1. It's solved the DC Universe problemOne of the problems facing Season 2 is that it's in a different universe to season 1: James Gunn set Peacemaker season 1 in the DC Extended Universe, which is now gone, so season 2 takes place in the DCU. That raises lots of questions, which we've explained in our in-depth hub (linked above).
It looks like at least part of the answer is at the end of the trailer, which shows not only Peacemaker but also... Peacemaker. If they aren't the DCU Peacemaker and the DCEU Peacemaker then we'll be amazed.
2. The Justice League are much more funIn the trailer we see Peacemaker auditioning very uncomfortably for Maxwell Lord's Justice League, while Guy Gardner and Hawkgirl look on. Presumably this was filmed during production of Superman, which means we shouldn't expect them to play a huge part in season 2.
But it's interesting because this Justice League is much more fun than the DCEU one, especially in its portrayal of Hawkgirl.
Rick Flagg is the bad guyIt looks like Flagg Sr. is going to be a key character in season 2 after his starring role in the Creature Commandos animated series, and he's got very good reasons to go after Peacemaker: in The Suicide Squad (spoiler alert!), Peacemaker killed his son. That makes him more nuanced than the usual superhero show villain: he's not a monster; he's a grieving parent.
Going by this new trailer there's lots to be excited about, so August can't come soon enough. Season 2 of Peacemaker will be streaming on Max from August 21 and will see Rick Flag Sr "on a mission" for justice.
The first season of Peacemaker is streaming on Max in the US and Now in the UK.
You may also likeOur best wireless earbuds list never stays unchanged for long, and the next pair of earbuds to make a claim for inclusion could well come from Samsung – with a new leak suggesting a key battery life upgrade will be included along the way.
This comes from a regulatory filing spotted by 91mobiles, supposedly for the Samsung Galaxy Buds Core. The indications are that the Galaxy Buds Core is the new name for the next-gen earbuds previously known as the Samsung Galaxy Buds FE.
The Galaxy Buds FE have a battery capacity of 60mAh for each earbud and 479mAh for the case, whereas this new filing suggests their successors are going to have a capacity of 100mAh for each earbud, and 500mAh for the case.
Add in some chipset efficiency improvements, and we should see a substantial boost in battery life. The Galaxy Buds FE launched in October 2023, and last around six hours between charges with active noise cancellation turned on.
Coming soon The Galaxy Buds FE charging case (Image credit: Future)This isn't the first time these earbuds have been sighted: earlier regulatory filings that emerged last month also pointed towards the Galaxy Buds Core name, and the same battery boost suggested in the most recent link.
There have also been rumors that these earbuds could come with direct Wi-Fi support, matching buds like the Xiaomi Buds 5 Pro Wi-Fi – though that feature would most probably bump up the price of these low-cost earbuds.
The Samsung Galaxy Buds FE came with a launch price of $99 / £99 / AU$149, and we're expecting the Samsung Galaxy Buds Core to cost around the same, although the upgrades we've mentioned could bump that price up.
As for a launch date, it shouldn't be too long before these earbuds are officially unveiled. The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 and the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7 are due to show up sometime in July, and the Galaxy Buds Core may well appear at the same event.
You might also likeMicrosoft has alluded to an upcoming feature for Teams designed to prevent users from taking unwarranted screenshots during calls in a bid to protect sensitive company information.
A new addition to Redmond's roadmap adds Enhanced Meeting Protection to Teams, which Microsoft says will prevent screen capture. Added last week, it's on track to roll out from July 2025.
The feature will become available across desktop client versions on Windows and Mac, as well as iOS and Android apps, making it virtually impossible for users to take snippets of potentially sensitive information.
Microsoft Teams will let you block screenshots soon"To address the issue of unauthorized screen captures during meetings, the Prevent Screen Capture feature ensures that if a user attempts to take a screen capture, the meeting window will turn black, thereby protecting sensitive information," Microsoft explained.
Although most common platforms are supported, users joining a Teams call with Enhanced Meeting Protection enabled will be restricted to audio-only to prevent content exposure.
Because the roadmap entry only shares basic details about the upcoming feature, it's unclear whether it will be enabled by default or toggled on via admin controls.
In the hope that enhanced protections will give companies access to more secure video conferencing, the company will also be rolling out its new Migration Tool for Teams in July.
"Customers will now be able to move content seamlessly from public and private channels in a third-party solution to Teams standard channels," the roadmap entry reads.
Enhanced Meeting Protection is currently in the 'in development' stage – the first of three, preceding 'launched' and 'rolling out'. Microsoft doesn't share details about how far along the development journey it is, and whether it's on track for the intended July release.
However, while the feature might be welcomed by many, it still leaves a considerable gap and, in many cases, does nothing to protect sensitive data on screens at all – there's no system in place to prevent users from taking photos of their screens with their smartphones, and such a tool would be almost impossible to implement.
You might also likeiOS 19 is likely to be a major update for Apple’s smartphone operating system. We’ve already heard for example that it could include an overhauled interface and support for new AI integrations such as Google Gemini, but now we’re hearing about a smaller but potentially very useful feature that could also be added.
According to Apple watcher Mark Gurman, writing in his Bloomberg newsletter (via 9to5Mac), iOS 19 will take some of the pain out of joining public Wi-Fi networks.
If you’ve ever connected to public Wi-Fi, you’ll know this often involves filling out a web form, which is a minor inconvenience. But if you want to connect multiple devices, then you have to fill out that form on all of them, adding to the level of inconvenience. With iOS 19 though, you might only have to fill it out once.
According to Gurman, once you fill out the form on one device, that registration will sync to all your other Apple devices, making it a bit faster to get them online.
Of course, as with any unannounced feature we’d take this with a pinch of salt, but Gurman has a superb track record for Apple information. We may find out for sure whether this feature is set for inclusion in June, as that’s when iOS 19 will probably be announced – though the finished version of iOS 19 probably won’t roll out until September.
The iPhone 16 Pro (Image credit: Future / Lance Ulanoff) iOS 19 isn't the next updateYou don’t have to wait that long for new software though, as iOS 18.5 is expected to launch imminently.
There’s no confirmed date yet, but the iOS 18.5 RC (Release Candidate) was rolled out to beta users on May 6, which based on past form means we could well see the finished version in the next day or two.
This isn’t going to be a massive overhaul of iOS, but it does contain a few new features, including a new Screen Time feature, which alerts parents if the Screen Time passcode has been successfully entered on a child’s device. Since Screen Time contains various parental controls, this alert ensure parents will know if the restrictions have somehow been bypassed.
iOS 18.5 also includes tweaks to the Mail app and the Settings screen, among other things, and of course it’s sure to contain various bug fixes. So it’s definitely worth downloading when it lands.
You might also likeCTOs are facing a paradox of unprecedented technological opportunity and macroeconomic volatility. And those in retail and commerce are feeling it the most.
Consumers expect personalized experiences, seamless buying journeys and interactions across all channels—both online and in-store. Meanwhile, the geopolitical crises and ongoing price increases are making it harder for CTOs to successfully marry budget management with innovation.
In short, it means the ‘traditional’ way of working for CTOs in commerce doesn’t work anymore. Just keeping the lights on is not good enough.
The emerging breed of CTOs are thinking differently. They are no longer just engineers and tech experts. They’re strategic decision-makers, team shapers and transformation catalysts.
And while every business is different, the most innovative ones have one thing in common: they are disruptive.
The innovation mindsetThere’s no single way to be innovative—but there are powerful frameworks that can shape how to approach problems and opportunities. Here are five that we see consistently driving impact for commerce CTOs.
1. First Principles ThinkingInstead of starting with existing processes or looking at what competitors are doing, first principles thinking means going back to the fundamentals. It’s about stripping problems down to their core truths—then rebuilding with clarity.
This approach pushes teams to avoid following hype or assuming the status quo is the best path forward. Instead of asking, “How do we make this work with our current tech?”, the better question becomes: “If we were building this from scratch, what’s the best way to solve it?”
It’s a mindset that leads to more focused investments, smarter tech choices and long-term, high-impact solutions.
2. The Dialectical MethodToo often, tech decisions are framed as binary choices. Build or buy? Monolith or microservices? Headless or full-stack? The dialectal method takes a different approach, embracing nuance to create the best of both.
Innovation-first CTOs move past those either/or debates. They look at both sides of the equation and ask: how can we take the best of each and build something better?
This kind of thinking leads to more flexible, extensible architectures—ones that blend speed and control, scale and simplicity. It’s not about finding a perfect model. It’s about finding the right model for the business, and building with the confidence that it can evolve over time.
3. Creative DestructionAustrian political economist Joseph Schumpeter formulated the concept of creative destruction to describe how innovation fuels economic growth and development. He saw the key drivers of this process as entrepreneurs—those who were willing to disrupt the status quo and forward radical ideas.
In the realm of commerce, that can be the CTO.
This means actively rethinking legacy systems, experimenting with new experiences, and challenging internal norms. Whether it’s using AI tools to rethink customer support, shifting from monolithic systems to modular platforms, or redesigning checkout flows to match real-world behavior—the best ideas often come when questioning what has been accepted as standard.
Creative destruction doesn’t mean breaking things for the sake of it. It means asking: “What’s no longer serving us?” and having the confidence to change it before being forced to by internal and external forces.
4. Greedy AlgorithmsNot every decision needs a five-year roadmap. Sometimes, the smartest move is the next right one.
Greedy algorithm thinking is about identifying the highest-impact next step—quickly—and acting on it. It’s how high-performing tech teams avoid getting stuck in endless planning cycles. They move, test, learn and iterate.
This approach is especially powerful in transformation programs, where complexity can become a blocker. Instead of aiming for a perfect rollout, teams focus on momentum—launching one product, replatforming one category, optimizing one part of the customer journey. Small wins compound fast.
5. Metcalfe’s LawOriginally formulated by Robert Metcalfe, the co-inventor of Ethernet, Metcalfe’s law says the value of a network increases exponentially as it grows. In commerce, that translates to this: the right ecosystem makes everything better.
Innovation-first CTOs prioritize open platforms, extensible architectures, and communities that allow teams to plug in new capabilities as they need them. Rather than building every tool from scratch or assembling dozens of disconnected point solutions, they invest in systems designed to scale value with every new integration.
The smartest platforms don’t just offer tools—they provide leverage.
Building Innovation into the CultureAdopting these ways of thinking isn’t just for those in leadership positions, it requires root and branch cultural change. It means creating environments where experimentation is normal, where assumptions are challenged, and where teams are encouraged to think beyond “what’s worked before.”
For many organizations, that’s a big shift. But it’s one worth making. It does mean adjusting project and business performance measures though.
Instead of chasing exhaustive requirements lists or polished perfection, more teams need to work with defined minimum viable products, testing fast, and letting real data shape next steps. It means aligning around impact, not just output.
A Different Kind of CTO for a Different Kind of FutureThe commerce leaders winning right now do not just deliver digital experiences. They design the operating models, teams and platforms that will define the next decade of growth and more.
That takes courage. It takes clarity. And most of all, it takes a mindset built for change.
Whether navigating a replatforming effort, exploring AI, or simply trying to move faster—you need to start with the right mindset to unlock better outcomes.
This is a moment of massive opportunity. The future belongs to the CTOs willing to shape it.
We've compiled a list of the best data visualization 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
The harsh reality of modern software development and delivery is that many organizations compromise on software quality to prioritize speed.
We’ve witnessed the disastrous consequences of poor quality assurance time after time. Last year’s $5.5bn CrowdStrike outage demonstrated just how crippling the effect that failing to prioritize testing can have. And with the European Union preparing to enforce its updated Product Liability Directive (PLD) in late 2026, there are many new rules and responsibilities that software makers need to be aware of in order to minimize any associated liability risks.
The PLD update introduces major changes for software producers that emphasize safety and accountability in the face of complex software systems. Designed to protect consumers in a world increasingly dependent on software, it means that software makers will automatically be responsible if their product has safety issues.
They will be on the hook for problems and defects that show up post-release, as well as issues caused by third-party add-ons and even changes made by AI that make the software unsafe. There is no need to prove negligence; the fact that the software caused harm is enough to hold them liable. In this new world, testing will play an even more critical role in identifying safety threats and taking preventative measures.
A broader liability netUnder the new directive, software producers will be held liable for safety defects leading to personal injury, property damage, or material loss, regardless of negligence or intent. This applies whether the software is embedded in hardware, provided as a cloud service, or installed on a device. Injured parties will have to demonstrate harm and a causal link to a defect but are not required to prove misconduct by the producer.
Liability isn’t just limited to software production, either. Post-release updates introduce an added layer of accountability, with defects emerging from authorized software updates, evolving AI behavior, or the failure to provide necessary security patches all representing areas of responsibility. An everyday example could be a GPS navigation app providing incorrect and potentially unsafe directions due to a faulty update. This type of error highlights how seemingly minor software updates, if left unchecked, can pose safety risks, reinforcing the need for rigorous testing and quality control in software development and maintenance.
Software providers are also responsible if third-party components have safety issues, so due diligence must be given to the integration of external elements. For example, if third-party software integrated by a medical device manufacturer for a heart rate monitor has a bug that causes inaccurate readings, patients could be misdiagnosed or not receive critical medical attention. Even though the defect originated in an external component, the heart rate monitor manufacturer could still be held accountable under the updated PLD. Thorough supplier oversight and integration testing are, therefore, key.
One further key inclusion to the update is liability for digital manufacturing files - software that provides instructions for automated production. If a faulty design file causes the production of unsafe physical products, the software provider could face legal consequences. These provisions emphasize the need for meticulous oversight in software deployment, updates, and integrations.
Steps to help minimize liability risksWith compliance taking full effect in December 2026, organizations have a critical window to align their processes and products with the new PLD requirements to minimize potential liability exposure. Software producers must prioritize safety at every stage of development and maintenance, acknowledging that an effective product is not necessarily a safe product.
They must go beyond functional testing to evaluate safety risks comprehensively. While testing for every foreseeable use and misuse scenario may not be feasible, they can continuously reassess and reprioritize risks based on current knowledge and emerging threats as their products evolve.
Implementing continuous safety-focused risk assessments and testing throughout the product lifecycle will be crucial in detecting and addressing potential hazards before they escalate. Designing software to perform safely even when users act negligently is essential, and incorporating diverse perspectives in development teams can help identify overlooked risks.
Conducting safety-related regression testing and benchmarking will help detect the introduction of unsafe behavior over time, while interactive, problem-seeking exploratory testing will be essential in uncovering previously unknown safety issues. Frequent safety assessments are also necessary to ensure that evolving software remains within safety parameters, particularly as AI-driven adaptations and post-release updates introduce new variables.
AI tools and machine learning systems must be continuously tested and monitored to detect and prevent unsafe behaviors evolving from learning processes. Safeguards and benchmarks should be in place to detect and correct these risks before they pose harm, with rapid response protocols developed to restore systems if safety is compromised.
Managing third-party components is another key consideration. Thorough integration testing and robust oversight of external software elements can reduce liability exposure. Establishing clear contractual agreements with third-party providers will help define safety responsibilities.
Ensuring effective updates and cybersecurity measures is also critical. Regular patches should enhance safety without introducing new vulnerabilities, and cybersecurity strategies must proactively counter emerging threats. Users should also be educated on the importance of updates to maintain security and compliance.
Last but not least, companies need to be prepared for regulatory scrutiny. Comprehensive documentation of safety measures and testing will be required to demonstrate compliance while balancing transparency with intellectual property protection.
Planning aheadThe EU’s updated Product Liability Directive signals a new era of accountability for software producers. The heightened focus on consumer protection demands proactive safety measures, thorough risk assessment, and continuous monitoring.
Software producers can mitigate liability risks and build trust in an increasingly software-driven world by prioritizing safety, reinforcing cybersecurity, and adopting rigorous testing methodologies. The evolving regulatory landscape underscores that software safety and accountability are no longer optional but an obligation that must be integrated into every stage of software development and deployment.
We've compiled a list of the best patch management software.
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Panasonic has revealed its 2025 TV lineup, which features several OLEDs and a wide range of LED models, including a mini-LED TV.
The latest OLED lineup has been trimmed down from last year for both the US and UK markets. It consists of the flagship Panasonic Z95B, successor to the Panasonic Z95A, one of the best TVs of 2024; the Panasonic Z90B, a mid-range model; and the entry-level Panasonic Z80B.
The LED lineup consists of the Panasonic W95B, a flagship mini-LED model; the Panasonic W85B, a model with premium features; the Panasonic W80A, a QLED set; the Panasonic W70A, an LED model; and the entry-level Panasonic W61A 4K LED TV.
The US lineup consists of the flagship Panasonic Z95B OLED, the flagship Panasonic W95B mini-LED, and the entry-level Panasonic W70A LED, which is exclusive to the US and sits between the W80A and W61A.
There are currently no confirmed prices or release dates for any of the above TVs, but once we have this information, we’ll be sure to let you know.
Most of Panasonic’s new TVs will use the Fire TV smart TV platform, except for the entry-level models, which will use TiVo. The Panasonic Z95B and Z90B OLEDs and the W95B mini-LED will support a new Prime Video Calibrated Mode, which was first introduced in Sony’s 2024 TVs and also appeared in last year’s Panasonic Z95A.
Another exciting new feature in the Panasonic Z95B and W95B TVs is Calman Ready, which allows users to easily calibrate their screens using Calman’s new AutoCal feature (set to arrive in a software update to the Calman Color Calibration software during the Summer).
OLED TVs Panasonic Z95B (Image credit: Future)Available in 55, 65 and 77-inch sizes, the Panasonic Z95B features the same Primary Tandem RGB, or ‘four-stack’, OLED panel used in the LG G5, one of this year’s best OLED TVs. It also uses a new ThermalFlow cooling system that Panasonic says increases panel efficiency, resulting in higher brightness and better overall picture quality. The Z95B will support Dolby Vision and HDR10+ high dynamic range formats and use the HCX AI Processor MKII.
Similar to its predecessor, the Panasonic Z95A, one of the best TVs for sound, the Z95B has a 5.1.2-channel speaker array. Panasonic has upgraded this sound system, however, moving the virtual positioning of the rear channels and boosting the size of the side and up-firing speakers.
Elsewhere, the Z95B is packed with gaming features including 4K 144Hz, VRR (AMD FreeSync Premium and Nvidia G-Sync supported), ALLM and Dolby Vision gaming. Its game control board (part of Game Master Extreme) has also received new features, including a 60Hz refresh mode designed for older consoles. There will still only be two HDMI 2.1 ports.
Finally, the Z95B gets a design update via a fabric material for the front speaker array and surround frame. The corners have also been rounded to give it a more uniform appearance compared to previous generations.
Panasonic Z90B & Z80B Image 1 of 2Panasonic Z90B OLED TV (Image credit: Future)Image 2 of 2Panasonic Z80B OLED TV (Image credit: Future)The Panasonic Z90B will be available in 42, 48, 55, 65 and 77-inch sizes. It will support Dolby Vision and HDR10+ high dynamic range and provide many of the same features as the flagship Panasonic Z95B, including the same HCX AI Processor MKII.
Audio features include Dynamic Theater Sound Pro with a built-in 30W subwoofer and Dolby Atmos support . The Z90 B is also well equipped for gaming, with 4K 144Hz, AMD FreeSync and Nvidia G-Sync VRR and ALLM, as well as Panasonic’s Game Control Board. Once again, there will only be two HDMI 2.1 ports.
Finally, the Panasonic Z80B is the entry-level model in the OLED lineup, and will be available in 48, 55 and 65-inch sizes. It will support both Dolby Vision and HDR10+ and use the step-down HCX Processor. It has Panasonic Surround Sound Pro and Dolby Atmos audio, and for gaming supports 4K 120Hz, VRR (AMD FreeSync Premium) and ALLM.
Mini-LED and LED TVs Panasonic W95B (Image credit: Future)The Panasonic W95B is Panasonic’s only mini-LED TV for 2025 and will be available in 55, 65, and 75-inch sizes, plus a new 85-inch size. It will use the same HCX AI Processor MKII as the OLED TVs and support Dolby Vision and HDR10+, along with improved Hybrid Tone Mapping for better backlight control over its predecessor, the Panasonic W95A.
For audio, the W95B will support Dynamic Theater Surround and Dolby Atmos. Gaming features include 4K 144Hz, VRR (AMD FreeSync Premium included), and ALLM, as well as Panasonic’s Game Control Board.
Panasonic W85B, W80A, W70A and W61AThe W85B is a QLED TV that will be available in 43, 50, 55 and 65-inch sizes and use the HCX Processor. It will support Dolby Vision and HDR10+, Surround Sound Pro for audio and, 4K 120Hz, VRR and ALLM as well as Game Mode Extreme for gaming.
The Panasonic W80A and W70A carry over from 2024. The W80A uses a QLED panel, is available in 43, 50, 55 and 65-inch sizes, and supports Dolby Vision, HDR10+ and Dolby Atmos. Gaming features include 4K 120Hz, VRR, ALLM, and Game Mode Plus.
The W70 is an LED model available in 43, 50, 55 and 65-inch sizes. It supports Dolby Vision and HDR10+ and 4K 60Hz, VRR, and ALLM for gaming.
Finally, the entry-level W61A LED TV will be available in 43, 50, 55 and 65-inch sizes. It will use TiVo as its smart TV platform and support 4K 60Hz and ALLM for gaming.
Panasonic Z95B: a potential TV of the year? (Image credit: Future)The Panasonic Z95A was an impressive TV when we reviewed it in 2024, thanks to its dynamic sound, gorgeous picture quality, and improved smart TV platform. Its successor, the Z95B, looks set to be even more impressive.
It will use the new Primary Tandem RGB OLED panel for higher brightness and bolder colors, and has a fine-tuned speaker system and new cooling system to improve peak brightness. Plus, it has a sleeker and more uniform design, which I found to be more visually appealing when I saw it in person.
The flagship OLED market will be a real battleground in 2025, with the excellent, five-star LG G5 currently setting the bar. But both the Samsung S95F and Sony Bravia 8 II also looked to be real contenders when we saw them earlier this year. The Panasonic Z95B is set to take the fight to all of these TVs, and if the price is right, it could be a TV of the Year candidate.
You might also likeChinese researchers at Peking University have announced what seems like a breakthrough in transistor design, which if commercialized, could dramatically shift the direction of microprocessor development.
The team created a silicon-free transistor based on a two-dimensional material, bismuth oxyselenide.
The innovation hinges on the gate-all-around (GAAFET) architecture, where the transistor’s gate wraps completely around the source. Traditional FinFET designs, which dominate current silicon-based processors, only allow partial gate coverage. This full-wrap structure enhances the contact area between the gate and the channel, improving performance by reducing energy leakage and enabling better current control.
Could this mark the end of silicon chips?Published in Nature Materials, the paper suggests that the new 2D GAAFET could rival or even surpass silicon transistors in both speed and energy efficiency.
The researchers claim their 2D transistor achieves speeds 40% faster than Intel’s latest 3nm chips while using 10% less power, performance which would place it ahead of current processors from TSMC and Samsung.
The partial gate coverage in traditional designs limits current control and increases energy loss. The new full-gate structure addresses these issues, resulting in high voltage gain and ultra-low power usage. The team has already constructed small logic units using the new design.
“It is the fastest, most efficient transistor ever,” said Peking University. These claims are supported by tests conducted under identical conditions to those used for leading commercial chips.
“If chip innovations based on existing materials are considered a ‘shortcut,’ then our development of 2D material-based transistors is akin to ‘changing lanes,’” said Professor Peng Hailin, the project’s lead scientist.
Unlike the vertical structures of FinFETs, the new design resembles interwoven bridges. This architectural shift may overcome miniaturization limits faced by silicon technology, especially as the industry pushes below the 3nm threshold. It could also benefit the fastest laptops that require such compact chips.
The team developed two new bismuth-based materials: Bi₂O₂Se as the semiconductor and Bi₂SeO₅ as the gate dielectric.
These materials feature low interface energy, reducing defects and electron scattering.
“This allows electrons to flow with almost no resistance, like water through a smooth pipe,” Peng explained.
The performance results are backed by density functional theory (DFT) calculations and validated through physical tests using a high-precision fabrication platform at PKU.
The researchers claim the transistors can be manufactured using current semiconductor infrastructure, simplifying future integration.
You might also likeA new wave of malware attacks is targeting Bitcoin and crypto owners through Facebook ads that mimic trusted names in the industry.
Bitdefender says it has uncovered a multi-stage malvertising campaign that exploits the reputations of well-known platforms like Binance, TradingView, ByBit, and others.
These malicious ads don’t just trick users, they also adapt in real time to avoid detection and deliver malware only when conditions are ideal for the attackers.
Highly evasive delivery system (Image credit: Bitdefender)The scheme begins when cybercriminals hijack or create Facebook accounts and use Meta’s ad network to run fraudulent promotions.
These ads feature fake offers and use photos of celebrities - Zendaya, Elon Musk, and Cristiano Ronaldo are the usual suspects - to appear more convincing.
Once clicked, users are redirected to lookalike websites that impersonate legitimate cryptocurrency services and prompt them to download what appears to be a desktop client.
The malware delivery system is highly evasive. Bitdefender says the front-end of the fake site works with a local server quietly spun up by the initial install, allowing attackers to send payloads directly to the victim's system while dodging most security software.
Delivery only happens if the victim meets specific criteria, such as being logged into Facebook, using a preferred browser like Microsoft Edge, or matching a certain demographic profile.
Some malware samples run lightweight .NET servers locally and communicate with the website using advanced scripts that execute encoded PowerShell commands. These can exfiltrate sensitive data like installed software, system and OS info, and even GPU details.
Depending on the findings, the malware may download further payloads or simply go dormant if it suspects it's being analyzed in a sandbox.
Bitdefender researchers found hundreds of Facebook accounts promoting these campaigns. One ran more than 100 ads in a single day. Many ads target men aged 18 and older, with examples found in Bulgaria and Slovakia.
How to stay safe (Image credit: Amazon India)Scrutinize ads carefully: Be highly skeptical of ads offering free crypto tools or financial perks. Always verify links before clicking.
Download from official sources only: Visit platforms like Binance or TradingView directly. Never trust redirects from ads.
Use link-checking tools: Tools like Bitdefender Scamio or Link Checker can alert you to dangerous URLs before you engage.
Keep your security software up to date: Use a reputable antivirus that gets regular updates to catch evolving threats.
Watch for suspicious browser behavior: Pages that insist you use Edge or redirect erratically are massive red flags.
Report shady ads: Flag suspicious content on Facebook to help others avoid falling into the same trap.
You might also likeA pocket-sized Windows PC in a folding keyboard might sound like a concept device, but a new mini machine from China appears to be very real.
Designed by a company called Linglong, this foldable Ryzen-powered mini PC fits in a jacket or (large) trouser pocket, unfolds into a full-sized keyboard, and runs a full Windows 11 Pro desktop.
Weighing under 800g and roughly the size of a quarter-sheet of A4 paper when folded, the unit is aimed at anyone who wants portability without sacrificing functionality.
Decent port selectionOnce opened, the PC reveals a full QWERTY keyboard with physical switches and a chassis made from CNC-machined aluminium.
There’s no touchpad or ThinkPad-style pointing nub, so a separate mouse is required, but the mechanical travel and durability - rated to 100,000 keystrokes - suggest it’s built for serious use.
At the heart of the system is an AMD Ryzen 7 7840U processor, paired with 16GB of LPDDR5 RAM and either 512GB or 1TB of storage.
Graphics are handled by integrated RDNA3-based Radeon 780M, and a 16000mAh internal battery powers the device for up to 10 hours.
Despite its small form factor, the unit includes a respectable selection of ports: USB4, USB-C 3.2, and USB-A 3.2, along with Bluetooth 5.2, Wi-Fi 6, and an HDMI-compatible USB display option.
The device supports multi-screen output and can be docked to serve as a travel workstation, game center, or media hub.
A built-in monitoring utility displays CPU and GPU load, temperature, and other stats in real time.
Only available in China for now (I share your disappointment), the Linglong mini PC reminds me of the Orange Pi 800 keyboard computer.
While it lacks global availability or official support for Western markets, it’s an ambitious reimagining of what portable computing can look like and I can only hope it gets a wider release soon or sparks similar designs elsewhere.
(Image credit: Linglong) You may also likeAsus has unveiled a new high-performance desktop PC which delivers petaflop-scale AI performance, not in a flashy server rack, but in a surprisingly unassuming chassis.
The Asus ExpertCenter Pro ET900N G3 looks like any standard business tower - so much so it even includes a DVD drive and a curious-looking slot that feels like a throwback to the early 2000s.
At the heart of this business PC is the Nvidia GB300 Ultra, a two-part module that combines a Grace CPU with a Blackwell GPU via NVLink-C2C, Nvidia’s high-bandwidth interconnect, making it ideal for programming and AI development.
Designed for serious AI workThe unified chip architecture enables the CPU and GPU to share a single memory pool, reducing latency and improving efficiency for large-scale AI workloads. The system can deliver up to 20 PFLOPS of performance for training large language models or running inference on high-parameter models.
It supports up to 784GB of coherent memory, more than double the combined VRAM of a workstation with four RTX 6000 Ada cards.
That scale of memory access is essential for developers and researchers working with models that exceed the capabilities of mainstream GPUs like the GeForce RTX 5090, which offers 32GB of VRAM.
The ExpertCenter Pro ET900N G3 also includes support for Nvidia ConnectX-8 SuperNIC, enabling high-throughput networking between systems. This allows it to function in clusters or within a larger enterprise AI deployment.
Despite its performance, it retains a desktop form factor, eliminating the need for rack installation, custom cooling solutions, or the infrastructure demands of a data center.
On the software side, the system runs Nvidia DGX OS, a specialized Ubuntu-based Linux distribution tailored for AI workloads. It provides native support for the full Nvidia software stack, including CUDA, TensorRT, and libraries for machine learning and data science.
It also supports remote scaling, allowing the ET900N G3 to integrate seamlessly with other DGX systems if additional compute power is needed.
You might also likeWe're ready and waiting for the Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge to finally get its full unveiling tomorrow, but ahead of the official event we've got another leak that points to how much this smartphone is going to cost.
Well-known tipster @MysteryLupin has posted a screengrab of a retailer listing for the phone, which gives us another look at the super-thin chassis that the Galaxy S25 Edge will sport – a design we got our first glimpse of back in January.
The listing is for the model with 256GB of storage, which we presume is going to be the cheapest one available. Head over to our Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra review and you'll see the storage options there start at 256GB.
According to this leak, the price for a 256GB Galaxy S25 Edge phone is going to be £1,099 – that's less than the Ultra model, but significantly more than you'll pay for the standard Samsung Galaxy S25, which costs $859 / £859 / AU$1,399 with 256GB of storage.
The price is right?S25 Edge pic.twitter.com/pbMCL68dNsMay 10, 2025
It's not really a surprise that the Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge is going to come with a premium price attached. This is a high-end handset that has clearly been cleverly engineered to make it so slim.
Previous leaks had put the price of this upcoming handset below the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra but above the Samsung Galaxy S25 Plus, which can be yours for $999 / £999 / AU$1,699 with 256GB of storage on board.
Once the phone does get its grand unveiling, you're going to have four different Galaxy S25 models to choose from, depending on your needs and budget. You can expect those prices to go down over time too, as we get closer to the launch of the Samsung Galaxy S26.
We will of course be bringing you all the updates from Samsung's event tomorrow, which gets underway at 8pm ET / 5pm PT on May 12, which is 1am BST on May 13, and 10am AEST on May 13. You can also watch the event online.
You might also likeA new Quordle 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 Sunday's puzzle instead then click here: Quordle hints and answers for Sunday, May 11 (game #1203).
Quordle was one of the original Wordle alternatives and is still going strong now more than 1,100 games later. It offers a genuine challenge, though, so read on if you need some Quordle hints today – or scroll down further for the answers.
Enjoy playing word games? You can also check out my NYT Connections today and NYT Strands today pages for hints and answers for those puzzles, while Marc's Wordle today column covers the original viral word game.
SPOILER WARNING: Information about Quordle today is below, so don't read on if you don't want to know the answers.
Quordle today (game #1204) - hint #1 - Vowels How many different vowels are in Quordle today?• The number of different vowels in Quordle today is 4*.
* Note that by vowel we mean the five standard vowels (A, E, I, O, U), not Y (which is sometimes counted as a vowel too).
Quordle today (game #1204) - hint #2 - repeated letters Do any of today's Quordle answers contain repeated letters?• The number of Quordle answers containing a repeated letter today is 0.
Quordle today (game #1204) - hint #3 - uncommon letters Do the letters Q, Z, X or J appear in Quordle today?• No. None of Q, Z, X or J appear among today's Quordle answers.
Quordle today (game #1204) - hint #4 - starting letters (1) Do any of today's Quordle puzzles start with the same letter?• The number of today's Quordle answers starting with the same letter is 2.
If you just want to know the answers at this stage, simply scroll down. If you're not ready yet then here's one more clue to make things a lot easier:
Quordle today (game #1204) - hint #5 - starting letters (2) What letters do today's Quordle answers start with?• R
• A
• B
• R
Right, the answers are below, so DO NOT SCROLL ANY FURTHER IF YOU DON'T WANT TO SEE THEM.
Quordle today (game #1204) - the answers (Image credit: Merriam-Webster)The answers to today's Quordle, game #1204, are…
Yesterday Quordle threw up MUNCH to make life more difficult and today we had BUNCH.
I employed exactly the same trick to narrow down the HUNCH/BUNCH/MUNCH options (PUNCH and LUNCH were already ruled out), playing HIMBO in order to identify the B.
So it was a case of deja vu, but it worked so I'm not complaining.
How did you do today? Let me know in the comments below.
Daily Sequence today (game #1204) - the answers (Image credit: Merriam-Webster)The answers to today's Quordle Daily Sequence, game #1204, are…
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 Sunday's puzzle instead then click here: NYT Connections hints and answers for Sunday, May 11 (game #700).
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 #701) - today's words (Image credit: New York Times)Today's NYT Connections words are…
What are some clues for today's NYT Connections groups?
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 #701) - hint #2 - group answersWhat are the answers for today's NYT Connections groups?
Right, the answers are below, so DO NOT SCROLL ANY FURTHER IF YOU DON'T WANT TO SEE THEM.
NYT Connections today (game #701) - the answers (Image credit: New York Times)The answers to today's Connections, game #701, are…
I solved today's NYT Connections in the hallowed 'reverse rainbow' order, but it was tough going.
Those dastardly puzzle setters at the NYT threw in plenty of red herrings, with PLACES TO FIND PAPER MONEY a particular problem. It all looked so easy early on – I spotted ATM, CASH REGISTER, TIP JAR and WALLET right away. But I also had PURSE and BANK, and couldn't decide which four of those six went together.
My idea was that they would be 'places you can keep money' – meaning BANK would be in there, but not TIP JAR or ATM – or 'places you can get money from', which would mean including BANK and PURSE, but not TIP JAR or CASH REGISTER (unless you are a store assistant, of course).
After two mistakes on that yellow group I moved on, and solved the more difficult purple, blue and green groups, meaning I got the supposedly easiest one last by default. Maybe my brain was just working backwards today.
How did you do today? Let me know in the comments below.
Yesterday's NYT Connections answers (Sunday, May 11, game #700)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.
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 Sunday's puzzle instead then click here: NYT Strands hints and answers for Sunday, May 11 (game #434).
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 #435) - hint #1 - today's theme What is the theme of today's NYT Strands?• Today's NYT Strands theme is… A little respect
NYT Strands today (game #435) - hint #2 - clue wordsPlay any of these words to unlock the in-game hints system.
• Spangram has 10 letters
NYT Strands today (game #435) - hint #4 - spangram position What are two sides of the board that today's spangram touches?First side: right, 1st row
Last side: left, 5th row
Right, the answers are below, so DO NOT SCROLL ANY FURTHER IF YOU DON'T WANT TO SEE THEM.
NYT Strands today (game #435) - the answers (Image credit: New York Times)The answers to today's Strands, game #435, are…
I've never had STREET CRED, which is probably why it took me a little while to solve today's Strands puzzle. Not that it was super tough – the fact that there were only five answers to find, plus the Spangram, made it relatively straightforward once I got going.
The problem was that it took me ages to find the first word. When I did, identifying STANDING by chance, that gave me the hint that I needed and after that it was just a question of trial and error.
How did you do today? Let me know in the comments below.
Yesterday's NYT Strands answers (Sunday, May 11, game #434)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.