-
Home 3D printers become more affordable, but value depends on use
Three-dimensional printer technology has matured significantly since its initial surge over a decade ago, with manufacturers now offering devices at substantially lower price points, making home ownership increasingly accessible. The industry continues to innovate rapidly, releasing improved products that have prompted many to reconsider whether a dedicated 3D printer is a worthwhile investment for their…
-
‘The Conjuring’ Is Officially Expanding With a Terrifying New Installment
Netflix has announced *The Conjuring: Unspoken*, the franchise’s first standalone video game, set to arrive in October. Players will investigate paranormal activity at the Red Lion Inn, where strange events are affecting a grieving family, bringing the film series’ haunted-house investigations into an interactive format. Netflix has not given an exact release date, shown gameplay,…
-
What do foldable phone cases actually protect?
Foldable phones are expensive and inherently delicate due to their hinge design and lower dust-resistance ratings compared to traditional smartphones, making protective cases essential. Manufacturers face the challenge of creating cases that offer adequate protection without compromising performance or aesthetics, though options are improving. Foldable cases typically consist of two parts: one covering the back,…
-
When are surround sound systems actually worth it over soundbars?
The article argues that a full surround sound system can deliver a more immersive home cinema experience than a soundbar, but whether it is worthwhile depends on the listener, budget and room. Soundbars are simpler and cheaper, and improve markedly on most TV speakers, while separate speakers can place sound more convincingly around and above…
-
How to improve CarPlay navigation if you use Google Maps over Apple Maps
The article outlines ways to make Google Maps easier to use in Apple CarPlay, for drivers who prefer its traffic data, business listings or familiar interface. In the EU and Japan, users can set Google Maps as their default navigation app, so Siri requests and tapped addresses open it instead of Apple Maps. Elsewhere, drivers…
-
When is it worth using a bike computer over a smartphone?
Smartphones can handle most casual cycling needs through affordable mounts and navigation apps, making a dedicated bike computer seem unnecessary unless specific problems emerge. However, purpose-built bike computers become worthwhile when battery drain, poor weather conditions or integration with specialized cycling sensors become regular frustrations rather than occasional inconveniences. Smartphones offer clear cost advantages since…
-
Australia news live: Chalmers and Gallagher to present final budget outcome; RBA interest rate hike looms
Australian households are facing renewed pressure from rising unemployment, persistent inflation and the prospect of another interest rate rise. Labor says it is working to bring inflation down and expects conditions to improve, while mortgage holders brace for the Reserve Bank of Australia to raise its official rate on Tuesday. Markets widely expect the rate…
-
Darren Jones predicts AI could bring four-day weeks within a decade
Former Labour chief secretary Darren Jones has predicted that AI could enable most workers to move to a four-day week within the next decade. Speaking at a New Statesman event at Labour’s conference, he said people might gain more time for family and personal life, while stressing that maintaining salaries sufficient to meet living costs…
-
Engram sampler uses AI to create experimental sounds from recordings
Music start-up Thoughtful Things has launched a Kickstarter campaign for Engram, an audio sampler and groovebox that uses AI to transform recordings and generate unusual new sounds. The instrument is aimed at experimental sound design rather than producing polished, radio-ready songs, and is designed to let musicians explore the unpredictable results of AI audio models.…