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Screen mass production is supposed to begin in the fourth quarter of this year, so the foldable iPhone can go on sale in 2026.

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 Tuesday's puzzle instead then click here: NYT Connections hints and answers for Tuesday, July 15 (game #765).

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 #766) - today's words

(Image credit: New York Times)

Today's NYT Connections words are…

• QUAD
• CORNER
• TREE
• HAMMY
• LAMB
• LIBRARY
• DELT
• SURROUND
• OVERDONE
• TRAP
• THE
• BET
• CAMP
• DORM
• DRAMATIC
• CAFETERIA

NYT Connections today (game #766) - hint #1 - group hints

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

• YELLOW: School grounds
• GREEN: Theatrical show off
• BLUE: Hunted down
• PURPLE: Ancient alphabet

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 #766) - hint #2 - group answers

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

• YELLOW: PARTS OF A COLLEGE CAMPUS
• GREEN: EXAGGERATED, AS A PERFORMANCE
• BLUE: CLOSE IN ON
• PURPLE: STARTS OF GREEK LETTERS

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

NYT Connections today (game #766) - the answers

(Image credit: New York Times)

The answers to today's Connections, game #766, are…

• YELLOW: PARTS OF A COLLEGE CAMPUS CAFETERIA, DORM, LIBRARY, QUAD
• GREEN: EXAGGERATED, AS A PERFORMANCE CAMP, DRAMATIC, HAMMY, OVERDONE
• BLUE: CLOSE IN ON CORNER, SURROUND, TRAP, TREE
• PURPLE: STARTS OF GREEK LETTERS BET, DELT, LAMB, THE

• My rating: Hard
• My score: Perfect

Although I didn’t make any mistakes I’m classifying this as tricky because I only made a clear run down to luck.

DRAMATIC and CAMP behavior is something I really enjoy and recognizing that some people might associate it with being HAMMY and OVERDONE I quickly put together the green group – EXAGERATED, AS A PERFORMANCE.

I came close to placing TREE in the group that became PARTS OF A COLLEGE CAMPUS before swapping it for CAFETERIA.

The last eight letters were a baffling bunch, so I decided to put THE and BET to one side and concentrate on what was left. CORNER, SURROUND and TRAP all seemed to describe catching someone, but I struggled to find the fourth and just added TREE to make up the numbers. I’m still not sure how it’s relevant to CLOSE IN ON.

Yesterday's NYT Connections answers (Tuesday, July 15 game #765)

• YELLOW: GYMNASTICS APPARATUS BARS, BEAM, RINGS, VAULT
• GREEN: FORCE TO LEAVE BOOT, BOUNCE, EJECT, REMOVE
• BLUE: HORROR MOVIES FROM 2022 NOPE, PEARL, SCREAM, SMILE
• PURPLE: HORSE__ FEATHERS, PLAY, POWER, SHOE

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 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 Tuesday's puzzle instead then click here: Quordle hints and answers for Tuesday, July 15 (game #1268).

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 #1269) - hint #1 - VowelsHow many different vowels are in Quordle today?

• The number of different vowels in Quordle today is 5*.

* 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 #1269) - hint #2 - repeated lettersDo any of today's Quordle answers contain repeated letters?

• The number of Quordle answers containing a repeated letter today is 1.

Quordle today (game #1269) - hint #3 - uncommon lettersDo 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 #1269) - 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 0.

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 #1269) - hint #5 - starting letters (2)What letters do today's Quordle answers start with?

• U

• N

• R

• B

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

Quordle today (game #1269) - the answers

(Image credit: New York Times)

The answers to today's Quordle, game #1269, are…

• UNCLE
• NADIR
• REMIT
• BROOM

My starter words gave me an anagram to solve for my first word – REMIT – and answering that gave me two more. It was until BROOM that I had to do some thinking.

With no other vowels I took a gamble that the word would contain the far more common double-O rather than a single-O, although I was all set to guess groom before realizing I’d already used the G.

Daily Sequence today (game #1269) - the answers

(Image credit: New York Times)

The answers to today's Quordle Daily Sequence, game #1269, are…

• BAWDY
• INCUR
• FISHY
• TENET

Quordle answers: The past 20

• Quordle #1268, Tuesday, 15 July: VILLA, FLECK, TIGER, CRANE
• Quordle #1267, Monday, 14 July: SURGE, PIZZA, PAPER, POPPY
• Quordle #1266, Sunday, 13 July: KAYAK, DECRY, RUDDY, HATER
• Quordle #1265, Saturday, 12 July: WREAK, NANNY, CLASP, STAIN
• Quordle #1264, Friday, 11 July: LAPEL, DRAIN, FROND, GROSS
• Quordle #1263, Thursday, 10 July: CROSS, WHEEL, UNDID, PENCE
• Quordle #1262, Wednesday, 9 July: SHIRE, SIXTH, SINGE, IMAGE
• Quordle #1261, Tuesday, 8 July: PLIED, PRANK, GAWKY, OXIDE
• Quordle #1260, Monday, 7 July: DROLL, TRUCE, TWIRL, SINCE
• Quordle #1259, Sunday, 6 July: AMPLY, SPAWN, EXTOL, RIDGE
• Quordle #1258, Saturday, 5 July: HAVEN, SNAKE, DREAM, TORUS
• Quordle #1257, Friday, 4 July: FAVOR, SKUNK, GAWKY, FLUFF
• Quordle #1256, Thursday, 3 July: DANCE, EYING, GLAZE, EGRET
• Quordle #1255, Wednesday, 2 July: INANE, SCOUR, ELITE, ULCER
• Quordle #1254, Tuesday, 1 July: REBAR, YEARN, FORTH, CROWD
• Quordle #1253, Monday, 30 June: INGOT, INFER, TAPIR, CLUED
• Quordle #1252, Sunday, 29 June: MIRTH, APTLY, SCRUB, SMACK
• Quordle #1251, Saturday, 28 June: AWOKE, SMOKY, DEVIL, SWING
• Quordle #1250, Friday, 27 June: SPEAK, EAGLE, AVERT, SUING

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 Tuesday's puzzle instead then click here: NYT Strands hints and answers for Tuesday, July 15 (game #499).

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 #500) - hint #1 - today's themeWhat is the theme of today's NYT Strands?

• Today's NYT Strands theme is… Tech accessories

NYT Strands today (game #500) - hint #2 - clue words

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

• STAKE
• LION
• PEST
• COAT
• STANDARDS
• SHARE

NYT Strands today (game #500) - hint #3 - spangram lettersHow many letters are in today's spangram?

• Spangram has 6 letters

NYT Strands today (game #500) - hint #4 - spangram positionWhat are two sides of the board that today's spangram touches?

First side: left, 4th row

Last side: right, 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 #500) - the answers

(Image credit: New York Times)

The answers to today's Strands, game #500, are…

• CASE
• SPEAKER
• STAND
• STYLUS
• CHARGER
• KEYBOARD
• FOLIO
• SPANGRAM: TABLET

• My rating: Easy
• My score: Perfect

Today’s Strands could not have been more TechRadar-friendly – considering how much we love tech accessories and write about the many different brands of TABLET.

Even for the less tech savvy, this search wasn’t much of a stretch and didn’t include any of the usual twists and turns, just a little bit of right-to-left thinking.

You will have to forgive me for putting “standards” in the hint words list, even though it includes STAND. It’s rare that you can find a nine-letter-long non-game word, so I couldn’t resist.

Yesterday's NYT Strands answers (Tuesday, July 15, game #499)

• GAMES
  MUSIC
• RIDES
• LIVESTOCK
• VENDORS
• PRIZES
• SPANGRAM: COUNTY FAIRS

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.

• Google TV interface is evolution, not revolution
• Most changes to the UI are subtle and modernizing
• Advertising on the For You page is not so subtle

Google TV's interface is evolving, and not everyone is happy. The expansion of its Material 3 Expressive design is continuing apace with the goal of making everything feel cleaner and more modern, but some devices are apparently showing really big ads on their revised homescreens.

Let's start with the positives. As Android Police reports, there's a new version of the Google TV app with the excitingly descriptive version of 4.39.3356.780959673.5, and it's delivered some noticeable improvements to key parts of the Google TV interface.

(Image credit: BarfingMonkey / Reddit)What's new in Google TV

Some of the changes are quite subtle, such as the marginally larger banner area at the top of each detail page. The names of TV shows and movies have been moved slightly and center-aligned, and buttons have been made flatter. There are fewer rounded rectangles and more lozenge-shaped buttons, while image previews are now less sharp-edged.

So far it's evolutionary rather than revolutionary, but it's making Google TV more consistent with the wider Android world. And even relatively minor changes make everything feel a lot fresher, a bit like a deliciously refreshing can of Coca-Cola. Mmmm mmmm mmmm!

Don't worry, that's not product placement: it's me segueing into the negatives of Google's user interface evolution. As some Redditors are reporting on r/AndroidTV, they're seeing really big ads on the For You page for the likes of Coca-Cola, and those ads are being greeted with exactly the amount of delight you'd expect from a forum that frequently describes the best ad-blocking techniques.

Okay, believe me now?!!! from r/AndroidTV

Big homescreen ads aren't unique to Google TV, of course, and neither is increasing the amount of ads smart TV users are exposed to. In a lot of cases, though, it's been confined previously to at least showing you sponsored TV shows and movies. Coca-Cola feels a little less natural, even if they have put Kylo Ren in it.

But at least Google TV gives you the option to use a third-party launcher instead of the Google one, so if you object to seeing ever more ads on hardware you paid for then you can swap to something else – people on that Reddit thread suggest Projectivy.

You might also like

• Google TV Streamer: release date, price and everything you need to know
• The Chromecast with Google TV is finally getting its long-delayed free update – here's what's new
• Don't worry if your Roku homepage suddenly changes – a smarter new layout is being tested for a lucky few

I spent a couple of hours with the Hisense 116UX TV, which has an RGB mini-LED backlight and a superfast 165Hz panel. Also, it's big.

Midrange devices like Samsung's Galaxy A36 are driving sales by letting people try AI without busting their budgets.

Consumer prices were up 2.7% from a year ago — a larger annual increase than the month before.

(Image credit: Chip Somodevilla)

Motorola's already introduced wood and fabric to the Razr Ultra. Are crystals next?

EcoFlow's new Ocean Pro is a home power backup designed for homeowners in disaster-prone states and meant to challenge Tesla's Powerwall.

Emotions affect how you approach money. Here's how to use that to your advantage.

Insta360 Mic Air: two-minute review

Following in the footsteps of DJI, Rode, Saramonic, Hollyland and more, Insta360 brings us the Insta360 Mic Air, a compact, inexpensive wireless microphone designed with video creators in mind – particularly those who use the Insta360 X5 or Insta360 Ace Pro 2 action cameras.

The button-sized, ultra-lightweight Mic Air transmitter (aka the TX) can connect wirelessly to either of the above Insta360 cameras, either replacing or teaming up with the on-board mics. The idea is that it adds an instant upgrade to sound quality, offering 48kHz / 24-bit audio, optional noise reduction, and a furry attachable shield to cut down on distracting wind noise.

Having tested the Mic Air on a typically breezy day on the English coast, I’m very happy with the results. With the windshield carefully attached, the noise from occasional strong gusts was completely removed, as the video below illustrates. I say “carefully” because Insta360 has opted for a slightly unconventional method for attachment: the shield is mounted on a rubber ring that slips over the sides of the TX, and some care must be taken to ensure that it’s sited directly above the mic grille.

There’s also a form of noise reduction available, accessed by double-tapping the TX’s power button. It’s fairly effective, helping negate background drones and hums without overly distorting the final audio. You can also adjust the mic’s gain in the X5 or Ace Pro 2’s menu screens, and there’s an on-screen indicator while you’re recording to give you an at-a-glance view of the current gain.

Connected directly to the X5 or Ace Pro 2, the Mic Air has a short range – about 30 to 50m. But add the receiver (or RX) and things get a lot roomier, with the theoretical range going up to 300m (the real-world results are less thanks to interference and obstructions).

Note – at launch, the Mic Air is compatible with the X5 and Ace Pro 2 only. Insta360 says a firmware update is coming for the X4, while the Go 3 / 3S won't be compatible with it. The X3 and the Ace Pro aren't compatible either, but could be further down the line.

Image 1 of 5

(Image credit: Future | Sam Kieldsen)Image 2 of 5

(Image credit: Future | Sam Kieldsen)Image 3 of 5

(Image credit: Future | Sam Kieldsen)Image 4 of 5

(Image credit: Future | Sam Kieldsen)Image 5 of 5

(Image credit: Future | Sam Kieldsen)

The receiver, which is also tiny and lightweight, has a USB-C connector that enables you to plug it into smartphones, tablets, laptops and other products, such as Insta360’s Flow range of smartphone gimbals. It then establishes a wireless connection with the transmitter, so that when you hit the record button on your device the audio recorded comes from the transmitter rather than your device’s own microphone.

I still use an older iPhone model with Lightning, so I wasn’t able to test this method on my smartphone (Insta360 has told me that a Lighting version is a definite possibility for the future). While I understand the decision not to offer a Lightning option at launch, it does leave some people out of the loop, as does the lack of a 3.5mm output for connection to cameras. Some other small, affordable mics, like the DJI Mic Mini and Fulaim X5M, offer wider connectivity.

I did, however, put the Insta360 Mic Air through its paces hooked up to an Android tablet, and found the audio quality a huge improvement over that offered by the built-in mic. You don’t have to use it just for video capture, either – it would also improve the quality of voice notes and recordings, Zoom calls, and anything else that requires the use of a mic.

The Mic Air RX attached to a tablet. (Image credit: Future | Sam Kieldsen)

One thing Insta360 has done really well with the Mic Air is offer a variety of mounting options. In the box there’s a button magnet, which lets you attach the TX to thin clothing, as well as a clip magnet that can grip onto collars, lapels, bag straps and even cap brims. I’ve seen those with virtually every wireless mic I’ve reviewed, but here there’s also a magnet pendant, so the user can wear the TX around their neck. It’s nice to have that extra option.

The magnet also comes into use when recharging the TX battery, locking it into position on its charging plate. The charging plate uses USB-A, which surprised me a little in 2025 where USB-C is ubiquitous, but I doubt many people will struggle to find somewhere to plug it in.

On the subject of the battery, the TX offers about 10 hours of use on a full charge, which is a little less than the DJI Mic Mini’s 11.5 hours, but still very respectable.

Insta360 Mic Air and DJI Mic Mini. (Image credit: Future | Sam Kieldsen)Insta360 Mic Air: specs

Dimensions:

26.9 x 26.9 x 11.6mm / 1.3 x 1.3 x 0.6 inches (TX)

Weight:

7.9g / 3.7oz (TX)

Range:

Up to 300m

Connectivity:

USB-C

Bluetooth:

Yes

Battery:

Up to 10 hours

Noise cancelling:

Yes

The Insta360 Mic Air and its accessories all fit into a great puck-shaped, zip-up carry case. (Image credit: Future | Sam Kieldsen)Insta360 Mic Air: price and availability

The Insta360 Mic Air is available now, with two options available. For buyers who own an Insta360 X5 or Ace Pro 2 camera and just need a mic transmitter to connect to it directly, the Mic Air Transmitter package costs $49.99 / £49.99 / AU$89.99. It comes with a single TX unit, charging base, button magnet, magnet pendant, clip magnet, windshield and carry case.

For those in need of more flexibility, there’s the Insta360 Mic Air (1 TX + 1 RX bundle), which includes all of the above plus one USB-C Receiver unit that can plug directly into smartphones, tablets, computers and more. This costs $69.99 / £69.99 / AU$129.99.

Insta360’s pricing seems very fair to me, although recent price drops have seen the DJI Mic Mini (1 TX + 1 RX) bundle fall to just $89 / £59 / AU$199, or £78 / $139 with a Lightning adapter. That’s probably a better deal than Insta360’s, if you can find it.

Should I buy the Insta360 Mic Air?

The Insta360 Mic Air next to the company's X5 360 camera. (Image credit: Future | Sam Kieldsen)Buy it if...

You want to boost your X5 or Ace Pro 2's audio
Buying a single TX unit will hugely improve your action-camera audio at a low cost and with very little fuss.

You want the most mounting options
With a clip, button magnet and pendant in the box, there's no shortage of ways to wear the Mic Air.

Don't buy it if...

You need a flexible wireless mic
An RX unit adds some versatility, but with no 3.5mm or Lightning connectivity, the Mic Air isn't particularly versatile.

You want an all-in-one package
Unlike most rivals, you can't buy the Mic Air in a 2x TX, 1x RX and charging case bundle. In fact, there's no charging case accessory at all.

Insta360 Mic Air: also consider

DJI Mic Mini

The shrunk-down version of DJI’s ubiquitous wireless microphone is slightly more flexible than the Insta360 Mic Air, thanks to its RX unit supporting a 3.5mm input that lets it connect to cameras. In many other respects it feels similar, and the way it seamlessly works with certain DJI products mirrors the Mic Air’s compatibility with Insta360’s own most recent cameras.

Read our in-depth DJI Mic Mini reviewView Deal

Boya Mini

It might be 16-bit only and very plasticky, but the Boya Mini is still the best super-cheap wireless mic we’ve tested. It’s refreshingly quick and easy to set up and surprisingly reliable, and everything, windshields included, fits into the charging case for easy transport. You can pick up a full two-mic set (2x TX, 1x RX and the charging case) for less than one Mic Air TX.

Read our in-depth Boya Mini reviewView Deal

How I tested the Insta360 Mic Air

• I used it for one week
• I tested it with an Insta360 X5 camera and Android tablet
• I used it indoors and outdoors

I tested a full production version of the Insta360 Mic Air over the course of a week, using it both with the Insta360 X5 and my OnePlus Pad Android tablet. With the X5, I went outside on both calm and windy days, vlogging with the setup as a means to test its wind-negating and noise-reduction capabilities.

First reviewed July 2025

The United States continues to experience a severe identity fraud problem, which has become increasingly expensive due to modern digital threats. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) received more than 1.1 million identity theft complaints in 2024, representing a 9.5% increase from the previous year. The total financial losses from fraud and identity theft reached an alarming $12.7 billion according to recent statistics. The statistic illustrates how our digital convenience comes with a price, as it makes us more susceptible to advanced cybercriminal activities.

The rising importance of digital identity protection services has transformed them from optional extras into fundamental necessities because of the widespread nature of identity theft. The conventional methods of protecting our data, such as using strong passwords and being careful with information sharing, no longer provide adequate protection. The growing complexity of cyber threats necessitates that individuals implement robust defensive strategies to safeguard themselves against potential security breaches. The growing awareness of identity protection has motivated people to seek dedicated solutions that safeguard their personal data and identity.

The cybersecurity company Bitdefender leads the way with its innovative solutions, among others. Bitdefender Digital Identity Protection provides a comprehensive suite of services that track and detect identity theft, while also offering recovery support to affected users. The service offers three primary features, including continuous web-based personal data monitoring, identity theft alerts, and post-incident recovery assistance.

This review examines Bitdefender to help you determine if it represents the correct solution for your needs.

(Image credit: Bitdefender)Bitdefender Digital Identity Protection: Plans and pricing

Bitdefender Digital Identity Protection operates on an annual subscription model, making it accessible for users who prefer a straightforward payment structure. Although prices can fluctuate depending on ongoing promotions, the typical cost for the first year hovers around $39.99. Following this initial period, the subscription automatically renews at a standard rate, often around $79.99 per year. For those seeking more flexibility, a monthly subscription option is generally available for about $7.99.

It’s important to note that this service is designed for individual use, meaning it generally covers one person’s identity. For families or groups looking to monitor multiple identities, it may be necessary to explore Bitdefender's more comprehensive offerings. Options like "Identity Theft Protection Standard" or "Premium" plans provide a broader range of features, such as credit report monitoring and identity theft insurance, which can cover losses of up to $1 million or $2 million, in addition to restoration services. For users seeking the most extensive protection, Bitdefender's "Ultimate Security" bundles might be worth considering.

Understanding that users should have confidence in their purchase, Bitdefender offers a 30-day money-back guarantee for its Digital Identity Protection service. This feature allows users to try the service risk-free, reassured that if it doesn’t meet their expectations, they can receive a full refund within the specified timeframe.esn’t offer any short-term subscriptions or free trials.

You can contact Bitdefender directly for a full refund within 30 days of starting a new subscription (Image credit: Bitdefender Digital Identity Protection)Bitdefender Digital Identity Protection: Features

Through Bitdefender Digital Identity Protection, you receive complete online security for your personal information that extends to dark web monitoring with alerts about potential security threats. This solution enables users to understand their digital identity footprint and receive step-by-step protection instructions.

The core monitoring system uses Personalized Breach Monitoring, which generates individualized intelligence about data breach effects on your identity. Through advanced data processing, the system generates risk scores by analyzing multiple elements from data breach events. The platform performs Dark Web Threat Monitoring through continuous website scans that include black market chat rooms and blogs to identify illegal personal information sales. Bitdefender delivers immediate warnings about compromised credentials and potential account takeovers so users can act right away.

The Smart SSN Tracker system provides alerts when an unfamiliar name, alias, or address shows up with your Social Security Number, indicating possible fraud. The service also includes Social Media Identity Monitoring, tracking Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, and Instagram accounts for violent content, profanity, and discriminatory or cyberbullying posts.

The system protects against financial and medical forms of fraud. The Medical ID Fraud Protection service enables users to check medical benefits statements for unauthorized usage of their medical benefits. The Fraud Alert Reminders system sends rapid warnings to users when their identity appears in applications for new credit cards, wireless devices, utility payments, check reorders, mortgages, and car loans, thus enabling users to identify fraud at its early stages.

The premium features of this service provide Bank & Credit Card Activity Alerts that notify users about charges, withdrawals, and balance transfers above their defined limits. Additionally, Investment Account Alerts detect early warning signs of deposit fraud, withdrawal fraud, duplicate transactions, and balance transfer fraud in 401(k), brokerage, and financial accounts.

The Change of Address Premium feature sends alerts to users about unauthorized USPS mail redirections, which criminals often use to steal financial documents. The Premium version of Court Records Monitoring searches millions of criminal, court, and public records to protect your identity from unauthorized use. The Sex Offender Registry Monitoring Premium feature actively monitors sex offender registries for both illegal identity misuse and when sex offenders move near your location to use your personal information fraudulently.

Bitdefender Digital Identity Protection provides Identity Threat Alerts to deliver information about significant data breaches, identity theft cases, and emerging identity theft legislation. The service includes Lost Wallet Protection, which enables quick credit card, debit card, and ATM card replacement and cancellation in case of identity theft. Moreover, it offers 24/7 U.S. Customer Support staffed by specialists who help users resolve and restore their digital identities. The service also shows your digital footprint through visualization and provides actionable education, presenting tailored identity protection advice based on detected risks.

Bitdefender makes it easy to track and visualize your digital footprint (Image credit: Bitdefender Digital Identity Protection)Bitdefender Digital Identity Protection: Interface and in use

The Bitdefender Digital Identity Protection interface enables users to manage their digital identity through a web-based dashboard, accessible via Bitdefender Central online. This platform allows users to monitor their online identity risks without requiring any local software installations. The platform offers users complete control over their digital privacy through its centralized management system, making it easy to protect personal information.

The dashboard shows users' essential digital identity components after they complete the login process. The "Digital Identity Protection Score" stands out as a key feature that provides a numerical value indicating your current level of privacy protection. The score functions as a fundamental tool that helps users determine their level of online exposure. The "Digital Footprint" area displays users' publicly accessible information, enabling them to assess their data vulnerability.

The interface contains specific sections for monitoring "Data Breaches" while enabling users to perform "Impersonation Check" operations. The "Data Breaches" section notifies users about potential information breaches, and the "Impersonation Check" verifies that your identity remains protected from unauthorized usage.

The dashboard navigation becomes simple because it features clickable tabs at the top, including "Dark Web Monitoring," "Data Brokers," and "Event History." Users can explore each specific part of their online presence by using the tabs on the interface. The "Dark Web Monitoring" feature of the platform performs real-time checks on illicit online marketplaces to identify any personal data that matches your information. Through the "Data Brokers" section, users learn about the personal information collection and sales operations of data broker companies, while also receiving guidance on controlling their data visibility.

The Bitdefender interface presents complex information in an efficient and structured manner. The platform utilizes visual components, including risk maps and graphs, to help users easily understand complex information. The platform's user-friendly interface displays your data risk locations alongside recommended actions to mitigate those risks. The platform enables users to access simple one-click features that help them contact companies to remove data and protect compromised accounts, thus providing quick solutions.

The platform includes real-time alert systems that enable users to quickly handle digital identity threats. Through its complete set of tools, Bitdefender Digital Identity Protection enables users to track sensitive information and detect data breaches while providing active protection for their online presence. Through its user-driven digital identity protection system Bitdefender delivers a safer online experience to users.

The Bitdefender interface enables you to quickly visualize data and view suggested actions (Image credit: Bitdefender Digital Identity Protection)Bitdefender Digital Identity Protection: Support

Like several other identity protection companies, Bitdefender includes a rather comprehensive support page with solutions to frequent inquiries regarding the settings and functionality of the program. If you require assistance with Bitdefender Digital Identity Protection, start by visiting the Support Center.

Bitdefender offers several other options beyond the answers available in the Support Center. You can contact the company’s support team directly via a choice of phone, email, or live chat.

Although there are no specified hours for live chat assistance, English-language phone support is offered around-the-clock. The Bitdefender support system may be able to address any issues you run through, however we never received an answer to a question that was quite simple.

The Bitdefender Support Center contains detailed articles on a number of topics (Image credit: Bitdefender Digital Identity Protection)Bitdefender Digital Identity Protection: The competition

The identity protection services from Bitdefender Digital Identity Protection compete with various established players and emerging companies that offer comprehensive protection against identity theft, credit monitoring, and cybersecurity services. The market consists of two main groups of competitors, which include traditional antivirus companies that are extending their identity protection services alongside specialized identity theft protection services.

The market is dominated by two leading competitors: Norton LifeLock and Aura. Norton LifeLock provides established identity protection services through its Norton 360 antivirus suite, which combines real-time threat detection with VPN and identity restoration features. Aura has established itself through its comprehensive feature set, which includes dark web monitoring, public records tracking, financial transaction alerts, three-bureau credit score monitoring, AI-based spam call/text blocking, and identity theft insurance benefits. Aura provides quick fraud detection capabilities alongside family-oriented subscription plans.

Identity Guard operates as a major competitor through its comprehensive identity theft protection system, featuring AI alerts, password management, and secure browsing capabilities. IDShield stands as a powerful option because it delivers comprehensive identity theft protection through its social media monitoring and unlimited fraud resolution services, which utilize the expertise of private investigators. IdentityForce provides an extensive feature set that includes advanced fraud monitoring, together with robust child protection capabilities.

The broader security packages of cybersecurity companies, such as McAfee, Avast, and Kaspersky, include identity monitoring and protection features. The primary focus of these companies on antivirus and malware protection has led them to develop dark web monitoring, password managers, and secure VPNs that deliver comprehensive digital security solutions. The anti-malware solution provider Malwarebytes has developed identity protection features in addition to its core malware defense capabilities.

New identity protection services, such as NordProtect from NordVPN developers, provide identity protection through their cybersecurity suite, which includes data leak monitoring and cyber extortion coverage features. The market is undergoing ongoing evolution, as providers actively enhance their monitoring capabilities with rapid alert systems and comprehensive recovery services, while bundling these tools with other cybersecurity products to increase consumer value.

Bitdefender Digital Identity Protection: Final verdict

The digital world presents identity fraud as a significant security concern that users must address. The Bitdefender Digital Identity Protection system offers comprehensive services that track and warn users about identity theft, while also helping them recover their stolen personal data.

Bitdefender offers its services through annual subscriptions, which provide ongoing personal data monitoring, identity theft alerts, and post-incident recovery support. The system includes Personalized Breach Monitoring, which provides customized risk scores, and Dark Web Threat Monitoring, which detects the sale of illegal personal data. The system fights financial and medical fraud through its Smart SSN Tracker and Medical ID Fraud Protection tools.

Users can handle their digital identity through Bitdefender Central's user-friendly web dashboard, which shows their "Digital Identity Protection Score" and "Digital Footprint." Users can easily manage their data removal and account protection through the platform's simple interface.

The Digital Identity Protection service from Bitdefender comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee, but it exists mainly for individual users. The "Identity Theft Protection Standard" and "Premium" plans of Bitdefender offer credit report monitoring and identity theft insurance to families who need these features.

The competitive market featuring Norton LifeLock and Aura does not deter Bitdefender from offering its complete feature set and excellent customer support, which makes it an attractive choice for identity fraud protection.

Protect your devices with our Bitdefender coupon codes. Get top-notch cybersecurity at a discounted price and keep your online activities safe.

We've listed the best free antivirus.

• Binarly spotted multiple flaws in UEFI firmware built by AMI
• AMI released fixes months ago, so users should update now
• Many Gigabyte motherboards reached EOF and thus won't be patched

UEFI firmware on dozens of Gigabyte motherboards is vulnerable to a handful of flaws which theoretically allow threat actors to deploy bootkits on compromised devices, establish stubborn persistence and execute additional malicious code remotely, experts have warned.

Security researchers Binarly recently discovered four vulnerabilities in UEFI firmware developed by American Megatrends Inc. (AMI). All four have a high severity score (8.2/10), and can lead to privilege escalation, malware installation, and other potentially destructive outcomes. They are tracked as CVE-2025-7026, CVE-2025-7027, CVE-2025-7028, and CVE-2025-7028.

Binarly reported its findings to Carnegie Mellon CERT/CC in mid-April 2025, resulting in AMI acknowledging the findings and releasing a patch in mid-June. The patch was pushed to OEMs privately, but apparently Gigabyte did not implement it at the time.

Hundreds of motherboard models affected

There are apparently more than 240 motherboard models that are impacted by these flaws.

Many won’t be patched at all because they have reached end of life, and as such, are no longer supported by Gigabyte. Instead, users worried about the vulnerabilities should upgrade their hardware to newer, supported versions.

Products from other OEMs are also said to be affected by these flaws, but until a patch is applied, their names will not be publicized.

UEFI firmware is low-level code that runs beneath the operating system, and whose job is to initialize the hardware (CPU, memory, storage), and then hand off control to the OS. When this code has flaws, threat actors can exploit them to install so-called “bootkits”, stealthy malware that loads at boot time, before the OS.

Because they run in privileged environments, bootkits can evade antivirus tools, and even survive OS reinstalls and disk replacements. This makes them highly persistent and dangerous, especially in high-security environments. The good news is that exploiting these vulnerabilities often requires admin access, which is not that easily obtainable.

Via BleepingComputer

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Our series on identity theft protection apps will evaluate the features, pricing options, competition, and also the overall value of using each app. However, these are not full hands-on reviews since evaluating identity theft protection apps is almost impossible. It would require several months of testing, purposefully hacking accounts to see if the protection app works, handing over personally identifiable information, performing multiple credit checks, and risking exposure of the reviewer’s personally identifiable information.

There is finally an identity theft prevention program that is worth your time and money among the multitude of options available. This is particularly noteworthy since MyFico is the consumer arm of the company that created the FICO credit score, which has been an industry standard for more than 25 years.

MyFico places a strong emphasis on your credit score and credit reporting, offering a wide range of educational content as well as detailed information about your credit situation. The mobile app presents this information in a vibrant and easy-to-understand manner, boasting a more polished appearance than most of the applications we've tried. Although this product is typically priced higher than others, it meets all the criteria for a high-quality offering.

First and foremost, the user interface (UI) is simple and easy to navigate. This is crucial because a clumsy and unappealing UI can make any program difficult to use. Quickly finding the features you need can help you protect yourself against criminals or hackers attempting to steal your personally identifiable information, which makes identity theft protection essential. MyFico's colorful display of credit scores includes pop-up alerts that notify you of potential risks.

Like many other products, the app offers $1 million in identity theft protection, although some of the more basic competitors provide similar coverage. Additionally, a credit score simulator is available, allowing you to see how various actions, such as taking out a new auto loan, may affect your credit score. The organization behind MyFico is well-known and reputable. Overall, this is an effective and intelligent product for monitoring your online presence.

MyFico: Plans and pricing

MyFICO offers a range of plans to help consumers monitor their credit and identity, with pricing structured across different tiers. The Free Plan provides basic coverage, including a FICO Score 8 based on Equifax data, monthly Equifax credit reports, and 24/7 credit monitoring.

For more comprehensive coverage, MyFICO has three paid subscription tiers that automatically renew each month:

Advanced Plan: Priced at $29.95 per month, this plan offers three-bureau coverage (Experian, TransUnion, and Equifax) with credit reports and FICO Score updates every three months. It includes comprehensive credit monitoring, FICO Score monitoring with alerts, and identity monitoring. Additionally, it provides $1 million in identity theft insurance and 24/7 identity restoration. Features like the FICO Score Simulator and "How Lenders View You" analysis are also included.

Premier Plan: This top-tier plan costs $39.95 per month and offers the most frequent updates, providing three-bureau credit reports and FICO Scores (including versions for mortgages, auto loans, and credit cards) on a monthly basis. Similar to the Advanced Plan, it includes proactive credit report monitoring and alerts, identity monitoring, up to $1 million in identity theft insurance, and 24/7 identity restoration. All paid plans feature FICO Score 8 and may include additional versions of the FICO Score.

Please keep in mind that all subscriptions automatically renew and are non-refundable

MyFico has one of the best looking identity theft protection apps we've seen yet (Image credit: FICO)MyFico: Interface

MyFico truly stands out in the realm of identity theft prevention software, especially when compared to many other programs that often resemble outdated tax software from a decade ago. One of its most notable features is its vibrant, user-friendly credit score indicator, combined with a sleek, modern design that makes the mobile app particularly appealing to users.

The app boasts an intuitive layout, allowing users to easily navigate and access key features. Checking your credit score is a swift and straightforward process, while delving into potential credit issues or assessing identity theft notifications is just as seamless. This accessibility is vital in a landscape where timely intervention can make a significant difference.

One of the app’s standout components is its credit score simulator. Unlike traditional calculators that offer limited insights, MyFico's simulator operates more like an interactive wizard. It allows users to explore various financial scenarios—like purchasing a home or a car—illustrating how these decisions might affect their credit score. This foresight equips users with the knowledge they need to make informed financial choices, ensuring they can assess whether it’s wise to move forward with significant purchases.

While MyFico comes with a higher price tag than some of its competitors, the simplicity and effectiveness of its interface can be well worth the investment. If this user-friendly design helps you tackle potential identity theft issues or prevent future credit complications, the cost becomes a minor consideration compared to the peace of mind it offers.

In contrast, other identity theft protection apps, although they may offer impressive features, often fall short in usability. Their cumbersome and outdated interfaces can make it challenging for users to locate and utilize these tools effectively. MyFico’s sleek design and robust functionality set it apart, making it a superior choice for anyone serious about safeguarding their identity and maintaining their credit health.

Figure out how your purchasing decisions will affect your FICO score with the service's FICO Score Simulator (Image credit: FICO)MyFico: Features

MyFICO offers a comprehensive suite of features designed to empower you with knowledge and protection over your credit and identity. With MyFICO, you receive FICO Scores and credit reports from all three major credit bureaus: Experian, TransUnion, and Equifax. This is essential because 90% of top lenders rely on FICO Scores. By reviewing your reports from all three bureaus, you can identify discrepancies and errors that may be negatively impacting your scores.

Additionally, MyFICO provides credit monitoring and alerts, continuously tracking significant changes such as new accounts or inquiries. This allows you to quickly detect potential identity theft or fraudulent activity and take immediate action if necessary. You will also benefit from FICO Score monitoring and a history graph, which visually displays your score's progression over time, helping you understand how your financial decisions impact it.

One particularly helpful tool is the FICO Score Simulator, which enables you to explore "what if" scenarios, such as how paying down debt or applying for a new loan could affect your score. This feature empowers you to make informed financial choices before taking action.

Beyond credit monitoring, MyFICO offers identity monitoring by scanning the dark web and public records for your personal information. If your information is compromised, you will receive alerts. In the unfortunate event of identity theft, you are protected by identity restoration services and up to $1 million in identity theft insurance. This coverage includes 24/7 access to specialists who can assist you in recovery and provide financial protection for related expenses.

Finally, MyFICO provides valuable credit education and customer support to help you understand the complexities of credit and offer assistance whenever needed. Together, these features give you a complete picture of your financial health, proactive protection, and the tools to confidently manage your credit and identity.

You can find answers to common problems by visiting MyFico's Support Center (Image credit: FICO)MyFico: Support

Users who are facing problems can get assistance from the MyFico support team. A direct toll-free number is provided, along with what appears to be an email address but, upon selecting it, directs the user to a support portal. The business is open Monday through Friday from 6 AM to 6 PM and on Saturday from 7 AM to 4 PM PST. There are no choices for faxing or chat.

Additionally, there are articles categorized by subjects such as "Why did my FICO Score change?" and professional credit education. A discussion board, ebooks, or video content are not current options.

MyFico: The competition

While MyFICO is the official consumer division of FICO and offers direct access to the widely used FICO Scores, several strong competitors provide comprehensive credit monitoring services, often with different focuses.

One of the most prominent competitors is Credit Karma, which stands out for offering free credit monitoring services. Unlike MyFICO, which primarily provides FICO Scores, Credit Karma uses the VantageScore® model (generated from TransUnion and Equifax data). Credit Karma also includes features like credit-building tools, financial management resources, and personalized offers for credit cards and loans, making it a popular choice for those looking for free and expansive credit oversight, though it's worth noting they share user data for marketing purposes.

Another significant player is Experian, one of the three major credit bureaus. Experian offers its own free credit monitoring service, providing access to your Experian credit report and FICO® Score. They also have a unique feature called Experian Boost, which allows users to potentially increase their FICO Score by including on-time payments for utilities, phone bills, and streaming services. While MyFICO also offers FICO scores, Experian's direct connection to one of the bureaus and its Boost feature offer a distinct advantage for some consumers.

Beyond these, other services like CreditWise by Capital One (free, offering TransUnion VantageScore and credit report monitoring), SmartCredit (offering three-bureau reports and scores with credit-building tools), Aura, Identity Guard, and LifeLock provide various levels of credit monitoring and identity theft protection. These often bundle credit monitoring with more robust identity theft insurance, fraud alerts, and even digital security features, catering to users who prioritize comprehensive protection beyond just credit score tracking. The key distinction often lies in the specific credit scoring model used (FICO vs. VantageScore), the number of credit bureaus monitored, and the inclusion of additional services like identity theft protection or financial management tools.

MyFico: Final verdict

We have a strong appreciation for the user-friendly interface and the extensive range of features provided by the MyFico service. One of the standout advantages of this platform is the reassurance it offers; you won't have to worry about navigating the murky waters of obscure identity theft companies. MyFico is backed by a well-established brand known for its credibility and trustworthiness, which is a significant advantage in the realm of financial protection.

An effective starting point for monitoring your financial health is by checking your FICO score, as it serves as a crucial indicator of your creditworthiness. Keeping an eye on this score allows you to make informed decisions regarding your credit history and potential discrepancies that may arise.

Additionally, we appreciate that even the most basic plan includes identity theft insurance, providing peace of mind in the unfortunate event of fraud. This proactive approach to identity theft protection is a considerable benefit for individuals looking for comprehensive security. Moreover, if you ever find yourself needing assistance, MyFICO's customer support is available around the clock, ensuring that help is always at hand whenever you may need it.

While we consider the MyFico solution to be robust and reliable, it is worth noting that we believe services like Norton LifeLock and IdentityForce edge it out, as they deliver a wider range of features at a more competitive price point. These alternatives provide enhanced options that cater to varying needs and budgets, making them worthy contenders in the landscape of identity protection.

We've also highlighted the best identity theft protection

Stick it to economic uncertainty with this money trend.

• The prices for the ROG Xbox Ally and ROG Xbox Ally X have reportedly leaked online
• The ROG Xbox Ally will seemingly cost €599 ($699) while the ROG Xbox Ally X will be priced at €899 ($1,050)
• If the prices are accurate, this will make them Xbox's most expensive consoles yet

The pricing information for the ROG Xbox Ally and ROG Xbox Ally X has seemingly leaked online.

As reported by Spanish publication 3djuegos(via GamesRadar), the console prices were leaked through product boxes on Google.

It appears that the ROG Xbox Ally will cost €599, while the ROG Xbox Ally X will be priced much higher at €899. After converting, the prices respectively translate to $699 and $1,050, and, if accurate, this will make them Xbox's most expensive consoles yet.

This is also how much the original Asus ROG Ally and Asus ROG Ally X cost in Europe.

The pricing has since been removed, but the boxes originally linked back to the official Asus website, suggesting that the company may have mistakenly shared the information ahead of time.

Microsoft announced its take on the Asus ROG Ally last month during the Xbox Games Showcase 2025. Both versions of the handheld will feature a 7-inch 1080p display with a 120Hz refresh rate, but the white Xbox Ally variant targets 720p gaming, while the black Xbox Ally X console aims for 900p to 1080p gaming.

Although the prices may be on the more expensive side, it is understandable considering the console/PC hybrid uses AMD Ryzen chips, with the more powerful Xbox Ally X utilizing the Ryzen AI Z2 Extreme, which comes with 24GB of LPDDR5X-8000 RAM and a 1TB SSD.

Both handhelds have also been redesigned with contoured grips to mimic the Xbox Wireless Controller, feature the Xbox's 'ABXY' button layout, hall-effect impulse triggers, a 3.5mm headphone jack, Bluetooth 5.4 connectivity, and more.

There's no word on release dates for either console just yet, but we'll keep you updated.

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OneOdio OpenRock S2: Two minute review

I’ve tested so many of the best open earbuds recently that they’ve almost started to blur into one, but I’ve never forgotten two of the first open-ears I tested for how unique they were. One of these was the OneOdio OpenRock S – and it has finally seen a successor in the OneOdio OpenRock S2. But the thing is, it’s quite a different proposition.

The OpenRock Pro and OpenRock S were pretty big and bulky open-ears compared to what we’re seeing in 2025 but they were perfect for outdoor adventures or running thanks to their absolutely huge battery life, rugged design and solid, robust, inflexible design.

For better or worse the OpenRock S2 aren’t like the first-gen model but keep closer to current market trends in terms of design and feature set. I can’t say I’m not disappointed, but these new buds could be more appealing to a wider audience so I can understand the change.

These are slightly more affordable alternatives to most of the other major open earbuds we’ve seen this year, the majority of which sit just north of the $100 / £100 / AU$200 price line. I’d recommend them to people who want decent open-ears but don’t need the very best audio, fully-rounded feature set or long-lasting batteries.

The S2 are lightweight buds with a more flexible design and much smaller carry case, so won’t take up so much space in your bag or on your head than the last-gen model. I did find that this design presented a few issues with fit though, as the buds would sometimes move position on my head or get stuck on my ear’s antitragus, and I found myself missing the older buds’ design.

Another downgrade is a battery life in that it's roughly half that of the predecessors, but other areas compensate: OpenRock finally has a phone app for its earbuds, which wasn’t the case upon the release of the previous-gen buds.

The sound profile is warm with a clear focus on bass, with tech from the company emphasizing bass not to give it extra oomph, but to ensure you can even hear it in this form factor (which often loses it). They’re good options if you’re looking for something to work out with.

If you were put off by the original OpenRock’s rugged, chunky look and huge carry case, thinking it a bit too much of a fringe option for you, you’ll definitely think the S2 an interesting new pair of earbuds. But if those traits were the entire selling point of the originals for you (as they were for me), the S2 just don’t have that uniqueness.

OneOdio OpenRock S2 review: Specifications

Component

Value

Water resistant

IPX5

Battery life

8 hours (earbuds), 32 hours (total)

Bluetooth type

Bluetooth 6.0

Weight

7g / Charging case: 58g

Driver

12mm

OneOdio OpenRock S2 review: Price and availability

(Image credit: Future)

• Released in June 2025
• Costs $98.99 / £79.99 / AU$154

The OneOdio OpenRock S2 went on sale in June 2025, officially marking the second generation of OpenRock’s sports-specific open-ear headphones.

You can pick up the buds for $98.99 / £79.99 / AU$154 , so they’re cheaper than their predecessors, which released in October 2023 for $99 / £89 (roughly AU$150) although price cuts have seen the OpenRock S go for half that.

That also puts the OpenRock S2 as some of the most affordable open earbuds to come out this year, a good option for cost-cutters. You can find some competitors below, but let me speak plain: the options worth buying are all about $130 / £100 / AU$200.

OneOdio OpenRock S2 review: Design

(Image credit: Future)

• Small and lightweight case
• Lightweight buds, slightly wobbly design
• Hard-to-press physical buttons

Having tested previous OpenRocks, I was expecting a similarly huge carry case (relatively – earbuds cases can be like boxes of dental floss now) for the S2, but I was pleasantly surprised. It’s a much smaller pebble-shaped holder which weighs just 58g and easily fits in a hand.

While it’s made from a fairly brittle plastic that doesn’t feel like it’d survive much of a battering (I didn't try any drop tests), the speckled pattern on it makes it more distinctive-looking than the vast number of its rivals I've used.

The earbuds themselves are also smaller and more svelte than previous offerings from the company. They weigh just 7g each and are made up of a small bud, a thin rubbery sports loop and a larger counterweight/battery pack that sits behind your ear.

Evidence of how easily-bendable the hook is. (Image credit: Future)

As stated, I’ve tested loads of open-ears and these have got to be some of the most comfortable, thanks to how small and lightweight they are. Often I’d completely forget I was even wearing them.

Despite being comfortable, the fit isn’t reliable, likely due to just how thin, flexible and wobbly the sports loop is. When running, working out or sometimes even walking, the driver housing near my ear would wobble or change position a little, which can have a big knock-on effect on audio quality.

Another thing to criticize on the design front is the touch controls. On-ear controls, be they touch capacitive sensors or physical clicking buttons, are a hard thing for companies to get right, but the S2 is possibly the worst example yet on an open earbuds design.

The button is on the bottom of the counterweight, so if you want to pause your music, you have to press upwards — which shoves the thing straight out of your ear. Now that’ll stop your music! The solution is to hold the bud in place with your other fingers or hand to keep it in place, but this is a much more convoluted process than, say, picking up your phone and pressing ‘pause’.

• Design score: 3.5/5

OneOdio OpenRock S2 review: Features

(Image credit: Future)

• 8-hour battery, 32 hours from case
• New app with extra features
• Reliable connection via Bluetooth 6.0

OpenRock has seriously cut the S2’s battery life from its predecessor, which is a big shame. You’re now looking at a lasting power of 8 hours per bud, or 32 hours when you factor in the case, which is about average for open-ears but far short of the 19/60-hour life of the OpenRock S. It’s a shame to see a downgrade like this from one of the S’ best selling points.

As with most open earbuds, there’s no noise cancellation here; in fact, the form factor makes it easy to hear surrounding sounds. In truth, the buds’ relatively low max volume means that often, you might not even hear your music over the surrounding din in built-up cities, say.

The OpenRock S2 work alongside the OpenRock phone app which brings a few extra features. The most important one of these is the equalizer, which has three presets (Rock Mode, Relax Mode and Boom Mode, a graphic of the equalizer curve being the only way you’ll know what any of them do) and a seven-band custom mode.

(Image credit: Future)

This was a little infuriating to use as every time you change profile, music quickly flickers off and back on, so repeatedly tweaking the sound creates a strobe-like effect.

The app offers a few premium features like Spatial Sound, a way to adjust the left-right balance of music, a Hi-Res Mode and Multi-Point Connection. Some expected features appear like the ability to customize touch controls and there are two rarer ones: the ability to set an alarm to let you know you’ve been listening for a set amount of time, and a maximum volume limiter (ironic, given what I said about the volume).

Throughout testing, I found the OpenRock S2 quick and easy to connect to my phone, and reliable at maintaining a connection.

• Features score: 4/5

OneOdio OpenRock S2 review: Sound performance

(Image credit: Future)

• 14.2mm driver
• Bass tech returns for warm sound profile
• Low max volume, can be hard to hear

Each bud of the OpenRock S2 has a 12mm driver. It supports LDAC, AAC and SBC codecs, the former once you enable it via the app. The buds sound decent for their cost, though they’re not the best open-ears for audiophiles.

A selling point of OpenRock’s first-gen open-ears is back here: TubeBass, which boosts low-end sounds to fix a common complaint of the form factor, that thumping rhythms can be lost in the gap between earbud and ear canal.

(Image credit: Future)

TubeBass works well in ensuring the S2 is one of the better open-ears for bass fans, ensuring that you hear the bump of a bass guitar, synth or double bass in your chosen song. It makes the buds useful for people who listen to lots of workout songs, though obviously they don’t compare to any over-ear or in-ears which will deliver far more bass.

The bass isn’t overwhelming though, so it doesn’t drown out the treble in sounds. The overall sound profile of the buds is undeniably warm though, so guitars are crunchy and brass can be punchy but vocal lines lack some sparkle and sharpness through the upper mids and trebles. Mids can also be lost in songs, even rockier ones that enjoy extra ‘oomph’ from their rhythm guitars.

The soundstage is fairly limited, combining instruments into a bit of a thick lump at times, but this isn’t as damning as it sounds because the kind of nuance that a detailed soundstage can offer can also be quickly lost in open-ears when surrounding sounds get in the way.

• Sound performance score: 3.5/5

OneOdio OpenRock S2 review: Value

(Image credit: Future)

OpenRock’s decision to price these as more affordable than most other open-ears from major brands was a smart one. It makes them tempting as an alternative to top options from brands like Nothing, Huawei and Honor, for people who want to save money.

The S2 isn’t so fantastic value for money that it’s an instant must-buy, but they still provide lots of bang for your buck. That’d be doubly true if a discount ever comes to them to reduce the price a little further, especially for US buyers.

• Value score: 4/5

OneOdio OpenRock S2 review: scorecard

Category

Comment

Score

Value

It's an affordable option that doesn't have the feature set of rivals (or predecessors) but isn't that much of a downgrade.

4/5

Design

Much more lightweight and svelte than before, perhaps too much so.

3.5/5

Features

Most of the features you need are present, even if some have seen a downgrade from past models.

4/5

Sound

A warm sound profile that'll appeal to people working out, though it has its limitations.

3.5/5

OneOdio OpenRock S2: Should you buy them?

(Image credit: Future)Buy them if...

You want something lightweight
Both the buds and the case of the OpenRock S2 are easy to wear or carry due to their light nature.

You're on a budget
One of the most affordable options around right now, the OpenRock S2 will appeal to people looking to save.

You like your bassy, fiery sound
The OpenRock S2 won't offer you sonic perfection but instead a sound profile that lists to the warm, bassy and fuzzy.

Don't buy them if...

You'll listen in busy areas
The low max volume of the OpenRock S2 makes them unsuitable for use in busy and noisy areas, where they'll compete with other surrounding sounds.

You need rugged earbuds
The unique appeal of past OpenRock buds is lost here with a shorter battery life, looser design and less-protected carry case.

Also consider

Component

OpenRock S2

Earfun OpenJump

JLab Epic Open Sport

OpenRock S

Water resistant

IPX5

IPX7

IP55

IPX5

Battery life

8 hours (earbuds) 32 hours (total)

11 hours (earbuds) 42 hours (total)

7 hours (earbuds), 30 hours (total)

19 hours (earbuds), 60 hours (total)

Bluetooth type

Bluetooth 6.0

Bluetooth 5.3

Bluetooth 5.4

Bluetooth 5.3

Weight

7g / Charging case: 58g

8g / Charging case: 67g

16.8g / Charging case: 49.6g

12g / Charging case: 132g

Driver

12mm

14.2mm

14mm

16.2mm

Earfun OpenJump
One of the other affordable open earbuds you might want to consider comes from Earfun, and they're cheaper in the US but pricier in most other places. These buds don't sound as good but their equalizer has plenty more customization and they last longer.
Read our full Earfun OpenJump review

JLab Epic Open Sport
These contemporary open-ears sound a little better than the OpenRock, however their features don't quite match especially in the battery life.
Read our full JLab Epic Open Sport review

How I tested

The OpenRock S2 underwent roughly two weeks of testing in order to write this review, and as the introduction implies they're just the latest in a long chain of open-ears I've been testing.

During the review period the buds were connected to an Android smartphone and I generally used them for music on Spotify but also occasionally for calls, games, TV show streaming and listening to voice notes. This took place on runs, at the gym, on walks around my neighborhood and at home.

I've been reviewing gadgets for TechRadar since early 2019 and have used a huge range of tech. This includes other open-ear buds as well as past earbuds from OpenRock and other headphones from parent company OneOdio.

Read more about how we test

• First reviewed: July 2025

The Supreme Court has cleared the way for the Trump administration to continue with mass firings. And, Trump has threatened Russia with tariffs over its war with Ukraine.

(Image credit: JIM WATSON/AFP via Getty Images)

• New Microsoft Research paper identifies areas where AI is already being used the most
• It also shows areas that AI has very little influence on currently
• The research could show potential for AI job augmentation, not just replacement

I don’t know about you, but I have this kind of nagging fear that AI is coming for me one of these days. If not imminently, then in the very near future. One thing that might allay that fear is knowing exactly where AI’s axe is going to fall in the labor market, so that I can make sure I’m always just out of its reach.

The problem is that right now we have a lot of people making bold assumptions about what sorts of jobs AI will take away, but as we all know, no plan survives contact with the enemy, so it might be better to approach the problem from another direction.

A new report from Microsoft Research has analyzed 200,000 real conversations between people and Copilot to understand how AI is being used by people in the workplace right now. This way, we can determine which roles are likely to be the most impacted as companies adopt generative AI in the future.

The most at risk

It should come as no surprise that the jobs the report identified as the most common work activities people seek AI assistance for all involve gathering information and writing, and that the most common activities that AI is performing are providing information and assistance, writing, teaching, and advising.

It turns out that interpreters and translators are top of the list when it comes to compatibility with AI, with a stunning 98% of their activities overlapping with frequent Copilot tasks that have fairly high completion rates.

So, if you're thinking of changing careers to become a translator, it might be worth considering your options. Also at the top of the list are historians, writers and authors, and journalists. It should be no surprise to also see proofreaders, editors, and PR specialists high up on the list, too.

(Image credit: Shutterstock)The most resistant to AI

It’s physical trades involving working with people that are the most resistant to the influence of AI. The report puts nursing assistants, massage therapists, and machinery operators, including truck and tractor drivers, as the most AI-resistant occupations. Manual laborers like roofers, dishwashers, maids, and housekeeping cleaners were also near the top of the list.

The news will be good for some jobs, but terrible for others. Of course, nothing is guaranteed, and if you’re working in one of the most compatible areas for AI (I know I am!), then don’t panic right now because the research could be simply indicating that your area is one that is ripe for augmentation by AI, rather than replacement.

I think there will always be a need for skilled humans in some capacity, even in areas that will be heavily dominated by AI. That said, understanding AI’s impact on jobs is probably going to put you in a better position than if you have no clue about its threats.

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