Linux 6.12 officially released
Linus Torvalds has officially released Linux 6.12, confirming that the last week of development went as planned, allowing the project to stick to its typical release schedule. Torvalds mentioned that the merge window for the next development phase is opening, and he acknowledged the developers who submitted their pull requests early. He asked users to test this release to ensure no unnoticed issues remain before integrating further changes.
Linux 6.12 is packed with fixes and refinements aimed at improving stability and performance. While there are no major overhauls in this version, it does bring a substantial number of changes spread across different areas of the kernel. Developers worked on CPU architectures, GPU drivers, network functionalities, and memory management to address various bugs and make minor improvements.
Pornhub traffic reveals the naked truth behind Trump’s 2024 election victory
While the relationship between election results and adult site traffic may seem unrelated at first glance, the data from Pornhub’s 2024 Election Day statistics does provide an interesting lens through which to theorize voter behavior. Could these traffic patterns offer clues as to why Donald Trump secured victory? It’s worth exploring.
One possible theory is that the shifts in Pornhub traffic on Election Day could reflect the public’s engagement and emotional state. With morning traffic spiking by up to 15 percent, it seems many Americans were seeking personal stress relief before heading out to cast their votes. The act of turning to an adult site early in the day might signal an attempt to manage stress and prepare mentally for the anticipated tension of voting and awaiting results.
McAfee reports rise in AI scams and deepfake threats for holiday shoppers
McAfee has released its 2024 Global Holiday Shopping Scams Study, providing insight into how AI-driven scams and deepfake technology are increasingly affecting shoppers during the holiday season. The research highlights that these advanced scams are becoming harder to identify, causing many consumers to change their shopping behavior to avoid potential risks.
The study surveyed 7,128 adults across seven countries, including the U.S., Australia, India, the UK, France, Germany, and Japan, and was conducted online in November 2024.
TEAMGROUP announces T-CREATE EXPERT P32 desktop external SSD
Content creators know that handling massive amounts of data is part of the job. TEAMGROUP’s creator-focused brand, T-CREATE, is addressing this need with its new T-CREATE EXPERT P32 desktop external SSD.
Offered in both 8TB and 16TB variants, the T-CREATE EXPERT P32 provides a welcome solution for expanding storage for videos, photos, and other essential files. The USB 3.2 Gen2x2 Type-C interface supports up to 1,800 MB/s speeds and works with both USB Type-C and Thunderbolt devices. However, while those speeds are nothing to scoff at, it’s worth noting that there are faster drives on the market offering superior performance.
Transcend unveils CFX735 CFast card for secure and high-performance storage
Transcend has introduced its new CFX735 CFast card aimed at professionals who need reliable data storage. This card comes equipped with built-in write protection technology, catering to applications that demand secure and stable data handling.
The CFast card is built using 112-layer 3D NAND flash technology and connects via a SATA III 6Gb/s interface. This ensures impressive read/write speeds and large storage capacities, making it suitable for data-heavy operations. The CFX735 model can handle temperatures ranging from -5°C to 70°C, making it versatile for various working environments.
Gemini app launches for iPhone bringing Google AI assistant to Apple users
Google has released its Gemini app for iPhone, giving Apple users the chance to experience the company’s personal AI assistant through a dedicated app. Available for download in the App Store here, the Gemini app expands the ways iPhone owners can access Google’s AI, previously limited to the Google app or web browser.
This new app offers iPhone users a focused experience designed to enhance learning, productivity, and creativity. A highlight of the app is Gemini Live, a conversational feature that allows for fluid, back-and-forth interactions. Users can interrupt, change topics, or ask follow-up questions naturally, adding a more human touch to AI interactions. With 10 different voice options and support for over 10 languages, it offers a customizable user experience that wasn’t previously available through other versions of Gemini.
Satechi unveils portable NVMe SSD enclosure and XR hubs for high-speed storage and power needs
Satechi is stepping up its lineup with the launch of the Mini NVMe SSD Enclosure and two new Mobile XR Hubs, aiming to meet the demands of users needing fast storage and power on the go. These products are designed for mobile gamers, photographers, videographers, and XR enthusiasts looking for portable, versatile solutions.
The Mini NVMe SSD Enclosure offers speeds up to 10Gbps, making it an attractive option for those who need efficient, high-speed file management. Supporting 2230mm NVMe drives, this enclosure leverages Gen 2 USB-C for quick transfers, ideal for anyone looking to streamline their workflow. It features a tool-free, swappable SSD design, so users can easily switch out drives up to 2TB without any hassle.
Yahoo Mail launches app update with AI features
Yahoo Mail has released an updated mobile app featuring AI-driven tools, a messaging-inspired design, and new gamification elements aimed at enhancing inbox management. The app introduces features that help users organize their emails, compose responses more efficiently, and perform actions directly from the inbox view.
“We know people struggle to keep up with their inbox volume and with organizing the messages that matter most,” said Rob Gelick, General Manager of Yahoo Mail. “We want to make email more manageable, useful, and feel less like ‘work’ by powering the experience with AI features that make reviewing emails fast and efficient.”
BIOSTAR MT-N97 industrial computer targets system integrators and AIOT development
BIOSTAR has introduced the MT-N97 industrial computer, a fanless and compact system designed for modern industrial needs. This PC is aimed at supporting applications in automation, edge computing, and AIOT (Artificial Intelligence of Things) development, promising quiet and stable operation for demanding environments.
At the core of the MT-N97 is an Intel Alder Lake N SOC Processor, specifically the Intel N97. This quad-core chip runs up to 3.6GHz while maintaining a 12W TDP (Thermal Design Power), balancing power efficiency with capable performance for continuous use without excessive heat output.
The Guardian’s exit from Elon Musk’s X shows a lack of journalistic courage
The Guardian’s recent decision to stop posting on X, Elon Musk’s social media platform, is a move that screams weakness. The outlet, which proudly touts itself as a champion of bold reporting, announced it would cease activity on the platform due to “often disturbing content,” such as far-right conspiracy theories. But instead of taking a stand and contributing to the conversation with balanced reporting, The Guardian is turning tail and walking away.
This move doesn’t look like a show of strength. In fact, it comes across as a cop-out, a move fueled by fear rather than the backbone you’d expect from a major news organization. By withdrawing, The Guardian is giving up any chance to challenge misinformation head-on or offer perspectives that counter the narratives it finds so troubling. It’s ironic, really -- an organization that prides itself on being fearless and forthright suddenly choosing the path of least resistance.
HighPoint launches RocketAIC 6542AAW NVMe storage solution with massive 491.52TB capacity for only $78,999
HighPoint has announced its RocketAIC 6542AAW, claiming to be the world’s first near half-petabyte NVMe storage drive that is smaller than a shoebox. Compact at 4.84 inches tall, 8.27 inches deep, and 9.25 inches long, this external RAID powerhouse packs eight Solidigm D5-P5336 NVMe SSDs for a massive 491.52TB of storage. Beyond its storage heft, the device boasts real-world transfer speeds reaching 28GB/s, making it ideal for edge applications that need high-density, rapid-access storage in a small footprint.
The chassis is not just compact; it comes with its own power supply and an advanced cooling system to keep the NVMe media isolated from the host hardware. This strategic design means more interior space for the server or workstation and improved overall reliability. By keeping waste heat away from the main system, the RocketAIC 6542AAW reduces power consumption and enhances efficiency.
SurveyMonkey adds WhatsApp support for easier survey sharing
SurveyMonkey, a widely used platform for creating surveys and forms, has expanded its social sharing capabilities to include WhatsApp. This addition allows users to share their surveys and forms directly with WhatsApp contacts and groups, aiming to simplify the distribution process. WhatsApp joins SurveyMonkey’s existing social sharing options, which include LinkedIn, X (formerly Twitter), Facebook, and Microsoft Teams.
With over 2 billion active users globally, WhatsApp is recognized as one of the most popular messaging apps. SurveyMonkey customers in over 130 countries, speaking 56 different languages, can now leverage this integration to share surveys and forms through a platform that many already use daily. Early results have shown that the WhatsApp sharing feature has garnered twice as many clicks and shares compared to other social sharing options.
Logitech launches Sync smart office tools to streamline workplace efficiency
Logitech has introduced a range of Sync smart office tools designed to improve workplace efficiency and provide enhanced analytics for IT teams. The new suite includes Auto Book and Auto Release, which automate room reservations and cancellations based on user activity. Additionally, Logitech View offers interactive digital office maps to assist with navigation in large office spaces.
Henry Levak, VP of Product at Logitech for Business, highlighted the AI capabilities of the tools, stating, “Rally Bars use AI in-camera sensors to automatically detect and respond to natural workplace behaviors with no human intervention needed.” This approach aims to simplify room management, allowing employees to focus on collaboration while IT teams gain more accurate insights into actual room utilization.
OWC launches Thunderbolt 5 Hub to supercharge Mac and PC connectivity
Other World Computing (OWC) has launched the Thunderbolt 5 Hub, which promises to elevate device connectivity for Macs, PCs, and even tablets like the iPad Pro. This new hub delivers an impressive 80Gb/s of bi-directional data speed -- double that of Thunderbolt 4 and USB4 -- and supports up to 120Gb/s for users needing higher display bandwidth. With just a single cable, users can expand their device’s ports to include three Thunderbolt 5 ports and a USB-A port, making this hub a productivity game changer.
For tablet users, the OWC Thunderbolt 5 Hub is especially transformative, turning an iPad Pro or similar device into a full-fledged workstation capable of connecting to external drives, displays, and a variety of peripherals. This means users can push the limits of their tablets without the need for a laptop or desktop nearby.
Apple Find My can now share AirTag locations with airlines and third parties
Apple has launched a beta feature called Share Item Location in iOS 18.2, allowing users to share the location of an AirTag or Find My network accessory with third parties. This update is designed to simplify the process of locating misplaced items, particularly when traveling. Users can generate a secure link in the Find My app on their iPhone, iPad, or Mac, which can then be shared. The recipient can access an interactive map that shows the item’s location and updates automatically. The shared link expires after seven days or when the item is recovered, maintaining privacy and security.
“Find My is an essential tool for users around the world to keep track of and find their belongings,” said Eddy Cue, Apple’s senior vice president of Services. “The Find My network and AirTag have proven to be a powerful combination for users while traveling, providing invaluable location information when bags have been misplaced or mishandled. With Share Item Location, we’re excited to give users a new way to easily share this information directly with third parties like airlines, all while protecting their privacy.”
Brian's Bio
Staff Journalist
Ethics Statement© 1998-2024 BetaNews, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Privacy Policy - Cookie Policy.