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I spent a year wrestling with MagSafe cases on my Google Pixel 9, from misaligned rings to hot, flaky charging. That’s why Pixelsnap (native magnets plus Qi2) is the only Pixel 10 feature I care about.

While my colleagues wax lyrical about camera and AI upgrades, I’m just here reliving a year with the Pixel 9. I’ve always envied Apple’s MagSafe wizardry, but adding compatibility with third-party cases is an exercise in frustration.

Sure, the overly rigid dust- and smudge-prone case I ordered from Google alongside my Pixel 9 last year works just fine. But of the eight others from less exacting brands, seven misaligned the magnetic ring and charging failed or limped along while getting uncomfortably hot.

My magnetic car mount barely held, my favorite accessories went flying and even Google’s own non-magnetic bedside charger was fussy about case thickness and alignment.

Robust, reliable magnetic wireless fast charging in the car was surprisingly hard to achieve with the Pixel 9 (Image credit: Lindsay Handmer)

I found workarounds for most issues, but my white whale was tougher: MagSafe wireless charging in my car that could keep up with navigation and music streaming.

After months of trial, error and too many Amazon returns, I finally found a combination that worked. It’s good, but not great, and needs to hog an air vent in summer to avoid overheating.

So as far as I’m concerned, Pixelsnap is the headline Google act this year and everything else is just nice to have.

Finally, there's better charging and the freedom to do without a magnetic case! Or, for people like me (who tussle with gravity a lot), the relief of knowing that even if using a case, proper alignment is now baked into the design.

Pixelsnap 101

Pixelsnap wireless charger with stand (Image credit: John Velasco)

Not sure what I'm on about? You can read more about all the new features in our Pixel 10 review or check out our deeper dive on the new tech, but I've included the key Pixelsnap points below.

• Pixelsnap is on the Pixel 10, Pixel 10 Pro, Pixel 10 Pro XL and Pixel 10 Pro Fold.
• Uses built-in magnets, plus Qi2 for MagSafe-compatible wireless charging and accessories.
• Automatic alignment, faster charging, stronger hold.
• Charge speeds: 15W or up to 25W on the Pixel 10 Pro XL.
• Backward compatibility with most MagSafe chargers and accessories.

So what’s the bad news?

Pixelsnap is a big step up, but it’s not perfect. While not a feature I used too often, Google has removed wireless power sharing to make the new magnetic setup work.

Pixelsnap wireless charging speeds aren't consistent either – it maxes out at 25W on the Pixel 10 Pro XL, but the rest of the lineup is limited to a slower 15W.

MagSafe cross-compatibility is a huge win, but the magnetic accessory landscape is still messy, and older non-Qi2 chargers won’t hit full speed, so you’ll likely need to upgrade.

Not to mention, Qi2 is still hard to find. Case in point: I collect power banks like Pokémon for our best portable chargers guide and comparatively few models currently support 15W or 25W charging on the Pixel 10.

Now, while Pixelsnap is what I care about most, for everyone else, it might not be the standout reason to upgrade to the Pixel 10. But it does remove one of my biggest annoyances with the Pixel lineup, and for that I'm grateful.

Have a MagSafe-compatible or Qi2 setup that just works? Drop the model in the comments and I’ll add it to my test list.

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Perplexity enhanced its AI-powered Comet browser with a new $5 monthly subscription service called Comet Plus, which, at first glance, seems like Perplexity looked out at the bleak, ad-choked wasteland of modern digital publishing and decided it could offer something better to consumers and publishers. It's a simple pitch. With Comet Plus, you get AI access to premium news content, such as Gannett and Der Spiegel, with 80 percent of subscriber fees paid directly to those publishers.

And Perplexity is paying publishers in three ways: when people visit a story from the browser, when their content is cited in a search answer, and when an AI agent uses their content to complete a task for you. The idea is that if content is valuable to us in that context, publishers should be paid for that value, and consumers should get something special.

But I'm skeptical this model serves either the people creating the premium content or Comet Plus users. It feels like Comet Plus feeds the paywalled journalism into the AI sausage grinder just like any other content. Perhaps it's paying the farmer a fairer share instead of taking it outright. However, despite the inclusion of links and payment for people visiting the articles, it's hard to believe most people will consume the article and not just the digested result from the AI. Distilled answers engineered for brevity and speed and stripped of voice, structure, and context. All the things that made the writing worth paywalling to begin with. And it almost certainly won’t encourage people to read the original work. In fact, it arguably gives them less reason to do so. People who prioritize efficiency and prefer bullet points to narratives might use the AI browser assistant to synthesize the top five articles on a subject instead of reading all five original sources, for instance. That’s great for task completion. Terrible for the authors whose works are buried somewhere in the output.

This is not some nostalgic plea to support writers regardless of quality. However, I won't pretend that this model addresses concerns about how AI treats work published online or the people who write it (and that's before considering how AI has rendered the em-dash and some of my other favorite style choices unusable, leading to unfair accusations).

Comet Plus

Comet Plus at least tries to address the problem, but it's a thin veneer of respectability that ignores the mess underneath. Perplexity argues that this is a fairer model than the current click-and-ads approach. I don’t disagree. But if you genuinely want to rebuild it in a way that helps writers, then you have to design for visibility, not just monetization. And if you want people to care about human-written articles, stripping articles of context for simplistic short sentences won't help.

No matter what Comet Plus might claim, it makes the same mistake every AI platform has made since 2022 in treating original work as a raw material to be mined, not an experience to be preserved. The cold truth is this: most people will never know whose work their AI assistant just summarized. They won’t know the name of the Pulitzer winner or brilliant, if tired, freelancer cogitating on the future of publishing. They might get the facts, but they’ll miss the point, even if they pay $5 a month to do so.

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Squarespace website builder review

Squarespace is a top website builder known for its elegant designs and robust features. With over 100 premium, mobile-optimized templates, it’s a favorite for creatives and businesses seeking visually stunning, professional websites.

Pros

• Beautiful, customizable templates
• AI website builder included
• Unlimited products on all plans
• 24/7 expert support
• All-in-one platform approach

Cons

• Higher starting price
• No free plan available
• Limited third-party integrations
• Steeper learning curve

GoDaddy website builder review

GoDaddy Website Builder is a popular choice for beginners, offering a user-friendly interface and quick setup. With many templates and marketing tools, it’s designed to help small businesses and entrepreneurs create functional websites with ease.

Pros

• Lower starting price
• Free plan available
• Simple drag-and-drop editor
• Fast setup process
• Strong marketing tools

Cons

• Basic template designs
• Limited customization options
• Commerce features cost extra
• Less design flexibility

Squarespace and GoDaddy are both reliable website builders for beginners in 2025. They help businesses establish an online presence quickly, with limited creative freedom but a much quicker set up time. Each platform also offers hosting, templates, and other tools.

That said, there are some differences. Squarespace emphasizes just a little bit more on creative control. It's no WordPress or Webflow, but you still get really aesthetic templates and more flexible customization tools. GoDaddy prioritizes simplicity and affordability above all. So you only get basic customization tools in the site editor, but a whole lot more additional add-ons and integrations that can help small businesses with different online tasks.

We've tested both platforms multiple times. This guide will help you choose based on your comfort level, functional requirements, and creative focus.

Squarespace vs GoDaddy: A detailed breakdown

Feature

Squarespace

GoDaddy

Starting price

$16/month

$9.99/month

Free plan

No

Yes (limited)

Templates

100+ award-winning designs

Basic customizable themes

Editor type

Fluid Engine drag-and-drop with pixel precision

Simple click-and-drag interface

AI website builder

Blueprint AI with personalized content

Basic AI creation via questionnaire

E-commerce

Built-in on all plans with unlimited products

Available on higher-tier Commerce plans only

Payment methods

Credit cards, PayPal, Apple Pay, Afterpay, ACH

Credit cards, PayPal, Apple Pay, Google Pay

SEO tools

Built-in with AI SEO report and optimization

Standard SEO features, advanced requires add-on

Email marketing

Integrated with AI-assisted writing

Built-in basic email marketing

Mobile optimization

Automatic responsive design

Mobile-friendly templates

Customer support

24/7 award-winning support

24/7 support

Domain included

Free for first year on annual plans

$0.01 for first year with 3-year plan

Analytics

In-depth traffic and commerce analytics

Basic analytics with GoDaddy InSight score

Social integrations

Instagram, Facebook selling and marketing

Facebook, Instagram, Yelp, Google My Business

Blog features

Robust CMS with AI writing tools

Basic blogging with email updates

App market

Extensive third-party extensions

Limited integrations

Squarespace vs GoDaddy: Features

Squarespace packs a solid feature set that spans beyond basic website building. You get built-in e-commerce capabilities on every plan. That means unlimited products right from the start. The platform's AI tools include Blueprint for site creation and Design Intelligence for brand consistency. Recent updates also brought enhanced AI content support with tone adjustment and audience targeting.

GoDaddy takes a different approach with features. Its Airo AI handles product listings, pricing recommendations, and social content creation. The platform includes email marketing on all plans, from 100 emails monthly on Basic to 100,000 on Commerce. GoDaddy Studio creates branded videos and social ads using AI. However, advanced e-commerce features require plan upgrades.

Both platforms offer mobile optimization and SEO tools. Squarespace provides more sophisticated analytics and reporting. GoDaddy focuses on marketing automation and social media integrations. The key difference: Squarespace includes premium features across all tiers. GoDaddy uses a freemium model with paid add-ons.

Winner: Squarespace offers more features out of the box, making it better for users who want everything included. GoDaddy suits those who prefer starting basic and adding features later.

Squarespace vs GoDaddy: Ease of use

A lot of independent testing shows Squarespace as the easiest builder to use in 2025. Drag-and-drop editing offers pixel-perfect placement. Its section-based approach keeps sites structured and professional. Plus, Blueprint AI generates complete websites in under four minutes. However, the platform still has a steeper learning curve for advanced use than some competitors.

GoDaddy prioritizes simplicity above all else. The setup takes minutes with AI-guided questionnaires. You answer basic questions and get a ready-to-edit site. The interface works well for total beginners. But this really limits customization options. Once your site is built, making major changes becomes very challenging.

Both platforms offer decent editors. Squarespace provides more control but requires longer to master. GoDaddy gets you online faster but with less flexibility. For design-conscious users, Squarespace's section-based system prevents layout mistakes. GoDaddy's rigid structure helps maintain consistency but frustrates creative users.

Mobile editing differs significantly between the two. Squarespace offers responsive design that works across devices. GoDaddy provides basic mobile optimization but less fine-tuning options for power users.

Winner: GoDaddy wins for absolute beginners who need to get online immediately. Squarespace takes the crown for users willing to invest a little more time learning a more powerful system.

Squarespace vs GoDaddy: Integrations

Squarespace offers a curated selection of integrations focused on quality over quantity. Popular options include Google Maps, PayPal, MailChimp, and social media platforms. The platform connects seamlessly with creative tools like Flickr and SoundCloud. However, the app market remains limited compared to other builders. Third-party extensions like Spark Plugin add customization options.

GoDaddy provides essential integrations for small businesses. You get Facebook, Instagram, Google My Business, and Yelp connections. The platform integrates with major marketplaces like Amazon, eBay, and Etsy. Email marketing tools connect with popular services. But advanced integrations require higher-tier plans or separate subscriptions.

Their integration philosophy differs a lot. Squarespace maintains tight control to ensure stability and design consistency. This means fewer options but better reliability. GoDaddy opens more third-party connections but with varying quality levels.

For e-commerce, both platforms handle payment processors well. Squarespace supports more payment methods natively. GoDaddy focuses on marketplace integrations for broader product distribution.

Winner: Neither platform is that great at integrations. Squarespace offers better-curated options for creative professionals. GoDaddy provides more business-focused integrations for traditional commerce needs.

Squarespace vs GoDaddy: Security

Squarespace and GoDaddy both give you essential security features for peace of mind. SSL certificates come standard, so every site runs safely over HTTPS. Both platforms support PCI compliance, which is critical if you’re selling online—your customer data stays protected. They also offer two-factor authentication, making it harder for hackers to get in.

GoDaddy does score an extra point for its automated routine backups. You don’t have to remember to save your work or worry about losing changes. This is perfect for anyone who wants more redundancy. Squarespace offers basic backup options, but not as frequent or reliable as GoDaddy. Both builders update your site automatically, though, shielding you from vulnerabilities and threats.

In direct comparison, GoDaddy’s overall security score is higher, mostly thanks to those regular backups and a slightly broader set of protective tools. Squarespace still keeps things strong and simple, so it’s secure enough for most business users.

Winner: GoDaddy edges out Squarespace thanks to better backup routines and a slightly more robust security suite. It’s the better choice if you want maximum protection without fuss.

Squarespace vs GoDaddy: Support

Support is priority #1, especially if you’re new to websites. Squarespace offers 24/7 help through live chat and email. Response times are solid and the team knows their stuff. You also get a rich knowledge base with guides and tutorials for DIY learning. Sadly, there's no phone support option.

GoDaddy gives you round-the-clock support, with phone access included. If you prefer talking to someone, this is a big advantage. They also offer live chat and have lots of self-help resources and guides available. Feedback from users suggests GoDaddy’s support is fast and friendly, especially for setting up domains and basic sites.

For more specialized help, Squarespace has better design advice and creative troubleshooting. GoDaddy is unbeatable for issues around domains and web hosting, especially if you prefer speaking to agents on the phone.

Winner: GoDaddy wins for anyone who wants phone support and fast setup help. Squarespace appeals to users who favor email and live chat, especially those who need more advanced creative support.

Squarespace vs GoDaddy: Pricing and plans

GoDaddy is the easy pick for budget-conscious users. You can start with a free basic website and scale up only if you need more features. Paid plans start at $9.99/month, which includes ecommerce, marketing, and other upgrades as you go. Extras like email, domain management, and premium security cost more, but you don’t have to pay for features you’ll never use.

Squarespace does not offer a free plan, just a trial. Monthly plans begin at $16, but you get access to all core templates and features from day one. Every account includes hosting, unlimited bandwidth, and e-commerce, with no hidden fees or surprise upgrades. The main tradeoff is price. You’ll pay more, but you get everything upfront.

GoDaddy uses an à la carte system: start cheap, pay more as your needs grow. Squarespace is “all-inclusive”: higher entry fee, but full power from the start. Annual plans on both platforms include a free custom domain for the first year, giving your site a professional look as soon as you launch.

Winner: GoDaddy is the clear choice for users who want the lowest possible price or prefer a pay-as-you-grow model. Squarespace is best for those happy to invest a bit more for immediate access to every design and feature.

Squarespace vs GoDaddy: Final verdict

Squarespace takes the crown for most users in 2025. It offers superior design templates, comprehensive features from day one, and better creative control. The platform excels for creative professionals, service businesses, and anyone who wants a polished, professional website without compromises. You'll pay more upfront, but get everything included.

GoDaddy works best for budget-conscious beginners who need something online quickly. Its free plan and low starting prices make it accessible to everyone. The AI setup process gets you launched in minutes. However, you'll hit limitations fast if your needs grow beyond basic websites.

Squarespace vs GoDaddy: FAQsCan I transfer my website from GoDaddy to Squarespace?

You can move between platforms, but it's not automatic. Squarespace doesn't offer direct migration tools from GoDaddy. You'll need to rebuild your site using Squarespace's templates and manually transfer content like text, images, and product listings. The process takes time but gives you a chance to improve your design.

GoDaddy also lacks automated import tools from Squarespace. Moving from Squarespace to GoDaddy means starting fresh with GoDaddy's simpler templates. You'll lose some design sophistication but gain cost savings. Both platforms let you export content, but expect some manual work regardless of direction.

Which platform is better for SEO?

Both platforms include basic SEO tools, but Squarespace offers more advanced options than GoDaddy. You get built-in SEO guidance, AI-powered content suggestions, and better control over meta tags and URLs. Squarespace templates are also cleaner and load faster for search engines.

GoDaddy provides standard SEO features like custom titles and descriptions. However, advanced SEO tools require paid add-ons through their Marketing subscription. For serious SEO efforts, Squarespace gives you more control out of the box. GoDaddy works fine for basic local business SEO needs.

Do I need coding skills to use either platform?

Neither platform requires coding knowledge. Both offer drag-and-drop editors that work visually. That said, Squarespace provides more design flexibility without code than GoDaddy. Its learning curve is slightly steeper but still manageable.

Which platform offers better value for e-commerce businesses?

Squarespace includes unlimited products and full e-commerce features on every plan. You get inventory management, multiple payment options, and detailed analytics from the start. Its cost pays for itself if you're serious about online selling.

GoDaddy requires upgrading to Commerce plans for proper e-commerce features. Basic plans limit your selling capabilities significantly. However, GoDaddy integrates well with marketplaces like Amazon and eBay, which can boost sales.

What happens to my website if I stop paying for the service?

Both platforms will take your website offline if you stop paying. Squarespace gives you a grace period to reactivate, but your site becomes inaccessible to visitors during downtime. You can export some content, but lose the design and functionality.

GoDaddy also disables websites for non-payment, though they may keep your domain active briefly. Neither platform offers permanent free hosting, so budget for ongoing monthly costs with either choice.

Here are the answers for The New York Times Mini Crossword for Aug. 28.

Here are hints and the answers for the NYT Connections: Sports Edition puzzle for Aug. 28, No. 339

• Corsair just launched a new 14.5-inch touchscreen display, the Xeneon Edge
• It's built for multitasking as a secondary screen for desktop PC users
• It's available now on Corsair's online store, $250 / £219.99 / around AU$385.99

Multitasking is a prominent factor for many PC users, and one that can easily be achieved with dual monitor setups using some of the best monitors on the market, but it can take up a significant amount of desk space. Fortunately, Corsair has provided a one-stop solution.

As reported by TweakTown, Corsair has launched the Xeneon Edge, a 14.5-inch touchscreen display with a 2560x720 resolution, designed for multitasking with easy system monitoring, access to web browsers, and apps like Discord (serving as a second screen), as well as its iCUE software, which provides functionality similar to Elgato's Stream Deck.

It's now available on Corsair's online store for $250 / £219.99 / approximately AU$385.99. While I think that's a hefty price tag to pay for a secondary display, the benefits of keeping tabs open on activities on a small display are too great for me to ignore.

The Xeneon Edge can be mounted on the side panel of your PC case or simply placed under your primary monitor. System and game information, Discord notifications, wallpapers, and other iCUE software widgets can be used, freeing your main display from clutter.

The same can be done with a dual monitor setup, but desktop space becomes a concern, and it's not exactly ideal to leave your game window to address other tasks. With the Xeneon Edge, it can all be done with one touch, and it seems like this should work without interfering with controls while you're in-game.

Analysis: yes there are cheaper alternatives, but I'd rather trust Corsair

(Image credit: Corsair)

There's no denying that the $250 / £219.99 / around AU$385.99 is a bit of a sting, and it'd be easier to buy a cheaper alternative on AliExpress. Even so, I'd rather go with a more reliable brand, and Corsair is the prime example of that.

The Xeneon Edge is a niche product for some, but considering how often I'm keeping track of other notifications and videos simultaneously, it's the perfect secondary screen to purchase.

I've gradually grown tired of 32:9 super ultrawide displays, as they take up significant amounts of desk space, and the performance hit going from the 3440x1440 resolution to 5120x1440 is noticeable – and to me, the Xeneon Edge answers both space concerns and eliminates visual clutter, so it's a no-brainer.

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• Yet another leak has emerged about AMD's next-gen GPUs
• It shows a powerful flagship, one that could potentially rival the RTX 5090
• Other models include a mid-ranger, along with two lower-end offerings

Another rumor has outlined AMD's apparent plans for its next-gen range of graphics cards, again indicating that Team Red intends to compete at the high-end this time around.

Of course, that's an area that RDNA 4 skipped, with its top offering being the upper-mid-range RX 9070 XT; however, there have long been rumors that AMD isn't going to shy away from producing a beefy GPU with RDNA 5. Or UDNA, as it may alternatively be called, which I'll return to shortly.

Wccftech reports that well-known GPU leaker Kepler spilled the beans on the Anandtech forums in an ongoing, rambling discussion thread (which was started late last year, in fact).

Kepler believes that the flagship RDNA 5 GPU will have 96 Compute Units (CUs), and that the range will drop down with the next tier having 40 CUs, followed by 24 CUs and 12 CUs, respectively, for the lower-end graphics cards.

As Wccftech further notes, this is tentatively backed up by ZhangZhonghao, a regular leaker posting on the Chiphell forums in China, who theorizes there will be an 'extra-large' GPU - in other words, a flagship high-end model - followed by medium (mid-range), small, and tiny graphics cards.

(Image credit: Shutterstock / DC Studio)Analysis: how long is a rendering pipeline?

Obviously, season this heavily, as even if this is true - based on the leaked diagram Kepler shares (and the backup theory from Chiphell) - it could just be AMD's current thinking, which may change down the line.

So, how powerful might an RDNA 5 graphics card with 96 Compute Units be? As it's less than a previous rumor indicated, which was 154 CUs. However, this is a bit of a 'how long is a piece of string' question as there's a whole load of variables involved, including how much difference the new architecture makes to the overall performance of AMD's next-gen GPUs, and how much cache is used (with some big increases potentially in the cards there, Kepler notes elsewhere).

However, all rumors suggest that AMD is making significant changes to the next generation of its Radeon graphics cards, which is why they might adopt the UDNA architecture rather than RDNA 5. The 'U' of UDNA refers to a 'unified' architecture, as this would supposedly represent the joining of RDNA (gaming) and CDNA (data center) architectures, all under one umbrella - a huge move.

So, in some ways, it makes sense that AMD would be planning a power move in terms of a proper flagship graphics card, given such a major shift in its GPU landscape. And so it's easy to believe that the intention will be to compete with the top-end of Nvidia's GeForce range.

Generally speaking, then, trying to pin down the spec of the possible RX 10090 XT (the logical progression for naming, although I think the flagship will be called something entirely different) at this point is a waste of time. That spec is likely to be fluid and changing, anyway, as we are some way off the realization of AMD's next-gen Radeon products (which are slated to arrive late in 2026, if not 2027).

All we need to know is that it's looking increasingly like AMD is going to offer a compelling rival to the RTX 5090 (as previous performance estimations have broadly suggested).

Although it is conceivable that Nvidia may have an RTX 6090, or equivalent, on the table by the time the next-gen Radeon flagship turns up, Team Red should beat its rival to the punch based on current chatter from the grapevine. And indeed, maybe this could spur Nvidia into making an RTX 5090 Super, but I'm getting carried away with the wild speculation (and besides, such a GPU would cut into the supply of chips that Team Green could use for much more profitable AI graphics cards).

Suffice it to say that AMD is looking towards producing a very powerful GPU with its next-gen range, one that'll please enthusiast gamers with plenty of money to spend - and Nvidia will have to sit up and take notice of that, should these rumors pan out. Especially if AMD can undercut with pricing, which shouldn't be too big an ask given how much Nvidia demands for its top dog GeForce graphics card.

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Here are hints and answers for the NYT Strands puzzle for Aug. 28, No. 543

Here are some hints and the answers for the NYT Connections puzzle for Aug. 28, #809.

"Susan Monarez is no longer director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention," the Department of Health and Human Services wrote in a social media post. Her lawyers said she had neither resigned nor been told she was fired.

(Image credit: J. Scott Applewhite)

Here are hints and the answer for today's Wordle for Aug. 28, No. 1,531

Apple is reportedly in discussion with Google to add Gemini to Private Cloud Compute, ready to power Siri with Apple Intelligence.

The news came from top insider Mark Gurman, who said, "A few weeks ago, Apple approached the search giant about making a version of its Gemini AI models."

Gurman even said Google was developing this custom model right now with Apple's involvement, pointing towards the potential for a Google Gemini-powered, Apple Intelligence-branded Siri.

As TechRadar's Senior AI Writer, I test out all of the best AI models, and Google Gemini is up there with my favorite chatbots on the market.

Apple's AI strategy has been underwhelming, to say the least, but reports of the Cupertino-based firm bringing in Google to superpower Apple Intelligence could be the best thing to happen to the iPhone in years.

Here are five reasons why I really hope Apple adds Google Gemini to Siri.

1. Gemini Live is best in class

(Image credit: Future)

AI voice assistants are everywhere these days, yet we're still waiting for Apple to truly supercharge Siri with Apple Intelligence.

While OpenAI's ChatGPT Advanced Voice Mode is good, it falls short of Google's Gemini Live, which I believe is the best AI-powered voice assistant on smartphones at the moment.

I like Gemini Live so much, in fact, that I've assigned the voice assistant to my iPhone 16 Pro Max's Action button, using it frequently instead of activating Siri on my device.

If Apple is looking to power Siri through an AI model from another tech giant, then Gemini Live is proof that Google is the perfect partner to do so.

Apple has a ready-made Siri replacement staring it in the face, and all it needs is some swanky branding and compliance with Apple's strict privacy vision.

2. Gemini reads your email and calendar already

(Image credit: Getty Images)

One of the best ways to use Gemini at the moment is by asking it questions based on your other Google services, such as Gmail and Google Calendar.

Adding Gemini into Siri would allow iPhone users to ask questions about these incredibly popular services, taking us one step closer towards the AI personal assistant everyone hopes for.

Considering the AI model is already able to tap into Google services, you'd expect it to be relatively easy for Apple and Google to offer similar abilities with Apple's most popular apps, such as Mail, Notes, and Calendar.

When Apple revealed Apple Intelligence last year, Siri was able to listen to your requests and implement them across iOS. Gemini basically does that on Android already, so why not allow it to do the same on iPhone?

3. A smooth transition

The AI options available are endless, so having some parity between iPhone and Android would actually be a great thing for smartphone users.

Think about it, Gemini powers the AI in the best flagship Android devices like the Samsung S25 and the Google Pixel 10. But what if a similar experience was bundled into every iPhone, just with a little bit more Apple polish?

I'd love to use Gemini as my go-to AI assistant on my iPhone, and quite frankly, I already do. However, having it built into Siri would make it feel even more at home on iPhone, and best yet, for consumers, it means the switch to Android or vice versa, from an AI perspective, would be incredibly smooth.

4. It's ready to go

I don't know about you, but I'm bored of waiting for a new version of Siri that's capable of what I want from a voice assistant.

And quite frankly, the thought of purchasing an iPhone 17 without any Siri improvements makes me feel a bit sour towards the upcoming iPhone.

Gemini works, and it's already good to go, so adding implementation into Siri and powering Apple's voice assistant with Google's hard work would mean an intelligent Siri sooner rather than later.

Currently, I have no hope for an AI-powered Siri by the end of the year, and quite honestly, that's a real disappointment, considering I bought the iPhone 16 Pro Max with the promise of "AI for the rest of us."

If Apple opted to use Gemini, we could get the AI Siri we've wanted for what feels like an eternity very soon, and that's only a good thing for Apple users who are getting impatient waiting for a voice assistant that knows what year it is.

5. There's already a fruitful partnership

(Image credit: Shutterstock)

Google and Apple have been working together for a very long time, with Google Search as the default search engine on Safari.

That relationship could be in jeopardy with a multi-billion-dollar antitrust case soon to be decided in the US. Following that lawsuit, there could be a big shift in iPhone's moving forward, and it might require new agreements between the two companies.

Could AI and Gemini be at the forefront of the discussions? Gurman says the companies haven't discussed this matter yet, but he believes that "if Apple and Google come to an agreement, it would be the basis of a new arrangement around search as well."

Apple might choose to steer clear of using a Gemini AI model to power Apple Intelligence, but considering what we've seen so far, I hope Tim Cook and co are at least contemplating it.

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• Exabeam report claims AI is driving insider threats, that are now outpacing external cyberattacks
• Most firms have insider programs, but lack advanced behavioral analytics needed for early detection
• Generative AI agents create faster, stealthier risks that traditional defenses cannot easily catch

How organizations view insider risk is changing, according to a new report from Exabeam which claims insider threats have overtaken external attacks to become the number one security concern, and it’s mostly down to AI.

Nearly two thirds (64%) of respondents said they now see insiders, whether malicious or compromised, as a bigger danger than outside actors - and Generative AI is behind a rise in faster and stealthier attacks that are far harder to detect.

“Insiders aren’t just people anymore," warned Exabeam Chief AI and Product Officer, Steve Wilson. "They’re AI agents logging in with valid credentials, spoofing trusted voices, and making moves at machine speed. The question isn’t just who has access - it’s whether you can spot when that access is being abused.”

AI-enhanced phishing and social engineering

Over half of organizations reported an increase in insider incidents in the past year, with most expecting that growth to continue.

Government, manufacturing, and healthcare are among the sectors bracing for sharper rises, while Asia-Pacific and Japan are anticipating the biggest regional increases.

The Middle East region is the outlier here, with nearly one-third of organizations expecting a decline, something Exabeam suggests could be down to either stronger defenses or an underestimation of new AI risks.

AI-enhanced phishing and social engineering are now among the top insider tactics, able to adapt in real time and mimic trusted communications at scale.

Unauthorized use of generative AI makes the challenge facing firms even harder, with three-quarters of organizations reporting unapproved activity.

Technology, government, and financial services show the highest levels of concern.

Despite widespread adoption of AI in security tooling, insider threat programs remain a mixed bag, as Exabeam found while 88% of organizations have such programs in place, only 44% actually make use of user and entity behavior analytics.

“AI has added a layer of speed and subtlety to insider activity that traditional defenses weren’t built to detect,” said Kevin Kirkwood, CISO, Exabeam. “Security teams are deploying AI to detect these evolving threats, but without strong governance or clear oversight, it’s a race they’re struggling to win. This paradigm shift requires a fundamentally new approach to insider threat defense.”

Exabeam's report noted its findings "point to a clear and consistent challenge” in which “organizations are aware of insider threats, but most lack the visibility and cross-functional alignment needed to address them effectively.”

“As AI becomes more embedded in enterprise workflows, the emergence of AI agents adds a new layer of complexity. These agents are not inherently malicious, but their ability to act independently introduces risks that traditional controls may miss. To keep pace, organizations must evolve their insider threat strategies”, the report concludes.

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AI models are doing a lot more thinking, keeping developers thirsty for computing power.

The virtual event could reveal a new tablet and maybe the rumored Galaxy S25 FE.

• The iFi's Go Blu Air is a small battery-powered Bluetooth DAC
• Three-stage processing for optimal audio
• $129 / £129 / AU$229, available now

iFi has announced a new super-portable Bluetooth DAC, the iFi Go Blu Air. It's extremely small even by iFi's usual standards: if the firm's portable DACs get much smaller, they'll be able to sell them to ants.

The Go Blu Air may be small – it's only 5cm tall – but its specification isn't. It packs iFi's signature three-stage audio system and both 3.5mm and balanced 4.4mm headphone outs, with iFi's anti-crosstalk system on the 3.5mm output. And it puts out a very respectable 256mW of power, to connect to a range of the best wired headphones and best wired earbuds.

There's also an integrated microphone for your calls and your phone's digital assistant, and for wireless connectivity to your phone or other device, there's LDAC and aptX Adaptive as well as regular Bluetooth.

(Image credit: iFi Audio)iFi Go Blu Air: key features and pricing

iFi likes to keep the Bluetooth processing and the audio processing separate to deliver the best possible audio, and to achieve that the Qualcomm QCC5144 Bluetooth 5.2 chipset handles Bluetooth reception and nothing else.

The audio data is processed by a hi-res Cirrus Logic MasterHiFi DAC, which in turn passes the signal onto a dual-mono amplifier.

According to iFi the amp circuitry features "discrete, high-grade components to maximize sonic purity – from TDK C0G and muRata multilayer capacitors, to custom OV Series operational amplifiers with ultra-low distortion (0.0001%)."

In addition to the DAC, iFi has added its own analog XBass and XSpace systems and given them hardware controls so you don't have to reach for your phone. There's also a combined volume control and navigation dial for the same reason.

At just 30g in weight this is a real go-anywhere DAC, and in a nice touch it comes with a magnetic clip that you can use to attach it to your jacket, bag or belt. And according to iFi you can expect a decent 10 hours between charges.

The iFi Go Blu Air is available now with a recommended price of $129 / £129 / AU$229.

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• Vacancy rates plummet as data centers struggle to match unprecedented demand
• Northern Virginia dominates capacity while emerging markets grow at an explosive pace
• Developers rush projects, yet 73% of new capacity is already preleased

Data centers are becoming the backbone of digital infrastructure, with vacancy rates in North America now at an all-time low of 2.3%, new JLL research has claimed.

Despite inventory reaching 15.5GW in mid-2025, the pace of absorption continues to outstrip available capacity.

This mismatch is fueled by surging reliance on AI, digital transformation, and cloud storage services, which have created a supply crunch across both established and emerging markets.

Demand rising faster than supply

JLL claims North America could see as much as $1 trillion in new data center development by 2030.

"There was a significant increase in the amount of capital deployed into data center projects under construction or reaching stabilization in the first half of 2025 compared to the previous year,” said Carl Beardsley, Senior Managing Director, Data Center Leader, JLL Capital Markets.

“We’re seeing developments with long-term leases achieving up to 85% loan-to-cost from senior lenders at competitive spreads... North America could see $1 trillion of data center development between 2025 and 2030.”

Also, more than 100GW of colocation and hyperscale capacity is expected to break ground or come online within the next five years.

Though construction is rushed to meet rising demand, 73% of these projects are preleased, leaving limited flexibility for enterprises seeking new space.

Northern Virginia leads with a planned 5.9GW, followed by Phoenix at 4.2GW, Dallas-Fort Worth at 3.9GW, and Las Vegas/Reno at 3.5GW.

Secondary markets are also experiencing striking growth. Columbus has expanded 1,800% since 2020, while Austin/San Antonio has grown 500% from a smaller base over the same period.

This spread reflects developers seeking new opportunities as established hubs struggle with power constraints and rising costs.

“The days of build-it-and-they-will-come are long gone. What we’re seeing now is ‘commit-before-it’s-built-or-you-won’t-get-in,’” said Matt Landek, Division President, U.S. Data Center Work Dynamics and the lead of JLL’s Data Center Project Development and Services.

Power availability has become the defining challenge for data center development, as the average commercial electricity rates have risen nearly 30% since 2020, reaching 9.7 cents per kilowatt-hour.

Developers are increasingly targeting areas such as Salt Lake City and Denver, where rates remain below the national average.

Even so, the wait time for grid connections is now roughly four years, delaying projects and slowing the pace at which supply can meet demand.

Industry analysts argue power is now “the new real estate,” with access to affordable and reliable energy dictating where capacity can expand.

“Power has become the new real estate. With vacancy effectively at 0%, virtually all absorption is the result of preleasing with delivery times extending beyond 12 months,” said Andrew Batson, Head of U.S. Data Center Research at JLL.

“The market has been growing at a remarkable 20% CAGR since 2017, and our development pipeline data suggests this pace will continue through 2030, with the colocation market potentially expanding to 42GW of capacity.”

This bottleneck may prevent speculative overbuilding but also ensures that shortages will persist for years.

Via HPC Wire

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• Neurophos develops photonic AI chips replacing electrons with light for efficiency
• Pilot with Terakraft aims to demonstrate sustainable ultra-efficient optical computing
• Single chip promises 100 GPUs performance using 1% energy consumption

An American startup is preparing to test an experimental processor which could deliver performance at a scale never before achieved on a single chip.

Neurophos, which was spun out of Duke University with backing from incubator Metacept, is partnering with Norwegian data center operator Terakraft to run a pilot of its optical AI inference platform in 2027.

Combining photonics with metamaterials to shrink optical modulators by a factor of 10,000x, the company’s technology uses optical systolic arrays that replace electrons with light, removing latency bottlenecks while running at clock speeds above 100GHz.

Overcoming energy walls

By combining this with compute-in-memory architectures, Neurophos believes its chips could overcome the energy walls that limit conventional GPUs and TPUs.

Neurophos, which raised $7.2 million in late 2023, claims its technology will allow a single chip to deliver the compute power of 100 GPUs while using only 1% of the energy.

The planned collaboration will see Neurophos’ optical processing units deployed at Terakraft's green data center in Norway. Previously part of the Sauda I hydropower plant (decommissioned in 2008), the facility ranks as one of the most efficient in the world.

“By hosting Neurophos’ ultra-efficient optical chips in our green data center for select enterprise clients, we not only reduce our carbon footprint but also raise the bar for energy-efficient AI infrastructure,” said Giorgio Sbriglia, chairman of the board of Terakraft. “Our mission has always been to power the future responsibly, and this collaboration brings that vision to life.”

Patrick Bowen, Neurophos founder and CEO added, “Terakraft’s commitment to renewable energy and innovative technologies aligns perfectly with our mission to democratize high-performance AI. By deploying our 100x more efficient inference chips in Terakraft’s green data center, we’re proving that AI’s exponential growth can be achieved sustainably, together.”

If everything goes as planned, the pilot in Norway could mark an early step toward sustainable ultra-efficient AI hardware designed to handle future workloads at scale.

Neurophos claims that end-to-end simulations validate its technology’s performance, with a roadmap targeting exaflop-class computing on a single chip.

Via eeNews Europe

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Go on a mind-bending journey or spend some time down on the farm with these games.

• A $199 hacking device is reportedly being used to steal cars
• Specially-developed patches allow thieves to exploit security vulnerabilities
• Widespread attacks have affected Kia and Hyundai models in the past

A diminutive orange-and-white device, which costs just $199 in the US (around £150 / AU$310), is reportedly being used to remotely unlock modern vehicles.

An in-depth report by 404 Media found that underground hackers have developed and are now selling software patches that can be loaded onto the device to unlock all manner of cars, including those from major brands like Ford, Audi Volkswagen, Kia and many more.

The Flipper Zero is marketed as a "multi-tool device for geeks" and can be programmed to "explore any kind of access control system, RFID, radio protocols and debug hardware using GPIO (general-purpose input/output) pins", according to the company’s website. It's previously been used for everything from flipping TV channels in public places to confusing iPhones.

Much like the widely-reported 'Kia Boys' – a band of teenage hackers that gained notoriety for stealing Kias using just USB cables – the Flipper hack works by intercepting and cloning a vehicle’s key fob’s radio signal.

According to 404 Media, underground hackers have developed firmware that can be purchased for a fee of between $600 and $1000, uploaded to the device and then used to unlock a variety of vehicles.

The patches are currently limited to merely opening the vehicle, which presents its own risks, but individuals quoted in the report warn that it won’t be long before they can be developed to override any sort of security system to start and drive the modern cars away.

This Flipper is not so fabulous

(Image credit: Flipper Zero)

This isn’t the first time the Flipper Zero has hit the headlines, as there is an entire Reddit thread dedicated to pranksters remotely opening Tesla charge ports with their devices.

The Drive also reported on a YouTuber that managed to hack his Flipper to change traffic lights from red to green. Overall, they are very good at highlighting security vulnerabilities in many modern systems, but are so often used for nefarious means.

A worrying example is exploiting a flaw in today’s vehicles that increasingly eschew the relatively reliable key-and-lock for fancy remote fobs.

Relay attacks have plagued the likes of Jaguar Land Rover in the past, with older Range Rovers particularly vulnerable to the attacks, forcing owner’s insurance premiums through the roof.

In the US, local police forces have warned Kia and Hyundai owners to install kill switches or resort to steering locks after a 2022 Tik-Tok video revealed just how easy it is to steal a number of the brand’s vehicles.

As a result, groups like The Kia Boys emerged online, filming themselves stealing cars for internet views. A host of copycats have since followed suit and continue to cause problems.

Today’s automakers have been busy instating security patches to try and improve customer confidence, but it seems it is very difficult to stay ahead of the hackers.

Currently, the Flipper Zero patches have only been sold to a small number of users, but 404 Media warns that this could become a more widespread problem should they become open source or free to download.

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