Brian Fagioli

TikTok has officially shut down in the United States, leaving the influencer community in absolute chaos. The app, which dominated the social media world with its viral trends and short-form content, ceased operations late yesterday, putting millions of creators in an uncertain position. Many influencers have relied on TikTok as their primary source of income, and its sudden closure has left them scrambling to find alternatives.

Adding to the intrigue, reports are swirling that Donald Trump, set to be inaugurated tomorrow, may intervene to bring the app back. Trump’s relationship with TikTok has been a rollercoaster, from previous attempts to ban it to now rumored talks of a revival. The speculation gained traction when it was revealed that TikTok’s CEO will attend Trump’s inauguration, hinting at potential behind-the-scenes discussions about the platform’s future.

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Donald Trump’s influence in the world of politics is undeniable, but did you know he’s now making waves in the cryptocurrency space too? Recently, I decided to dive into the hype surrounding Trump’s Solana-based $TRUMP memecoin to see what all the fuss was about. The process was surprisingly straightforward, even for someone who’s not a crypto expert.

I’ll admit, I only invested about $20 as a small test. This experiment is purely exploratory and doesn’t represent any political affiliation on my part. Memecoins like $TRUMP are fascinating, not because of their functionality but because of the communities and narratives they build.

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Football fans are gearing up for the Super Bowl, and while the teams aren’t yet finalized, now is the perfect time to grab a massive TV for the ultimate viewing experience. Starting today, January 19, TCL is launching a series of can’t-miss Super Bowl TV deals, with prices so good they’ll make upgrading your setup a no-brainer.

TCL, the official TV partner of the NFL, is slashing prices on its lineup of massive QLED TVs. With stunning color accuracy, deep contrast, and bright, vivid displays, these TVs deliver an experience that puts you right on the field. The headline offer? TCL’s 98-inch Q6 QLED TV is dropping to just $1,499 -- that’s a jaw-dropping 50 percent off. If bigger is better, the enormous 115-inch QM89 is discounted to $14,999, a solid 44 percent savings.

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Datacolor has introduced the Spyder Celebration Kit to mark 25 years since the launch of its first Spyder calibrator. The kit includes the 2024 Spyder, Spyder Checkr 24, and Spyder Cube, providing creative professionals and beginners with tools to manage color accuracy throughout the photography and editing process.

The 2024 Spyder supports the latest screen technologies, including OLED, mini-LED, and Apple Liquid Retina XDR, ensuring accurate calibration across modern devices. Its Device Preview™ Beta feature lets users simulate how images will appear on tablets and mobile devices, giving creators confidence in the final presentation of their work. The kit is intended to cater to photographers, digital designers, and content creators who value precision in their visuals.

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deepin 25 preview is now available here, offering a glimpse into a beautifully designed and highly secure Linux-based operating system that challenges Windows 11. Developed in China, deepin demonstrates how open source software can unite global communities and deliver innovation that transcends borders. While some might be wary of software made in China, there’s no need for concern -- deepin is largely open source, transparent, and a reminder that collaboration across nations fosters progress.

It’s important to note that this is a pre-release version, and users should expect potential bugs and incomplete features. Deepin’s development team recommends the preview version for those with technical expertise and advises against using it in production environments. Beginners are encouraged to stick with the stable deepin 23 release until deepin 25 is finalized.

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Traeger, a well-known name in wood-pellet grilling, is introducing the Woodridge Series, a new lineup of grills designed for every level of outdoor cooking enthusiast. The series includes three models -- Woodridge, Woodridge Pro, and Woodridge Elite -- each offering a range of features to make grilling more efficient and enjoyable. These new grills aim to combine convenience and innovation, bringing a touch of sizzle to backyard cooking routines. And yes, they all include smartphone app support, so you can grill smarter, not harder.

The Woodridge Series is designed to handle multiple cooking methods, including grilling, smoking, baking, roasting, and even braising. Each model features a durable, modern design and Traeger’s WiFIRE technology, which connects the grill to the Traeger App. This integration allows users to monitor temperatures, adjust settings, and access recipes remotely, making it easier to achieve consistently great results.

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Nintendo has officially announced the Nintendo Switch 2, set to launch in 2025. With promises of exclusive games, enhanced hardware, and backward compatibility with most Nintendo Switch titles, the new console is sure to attract attention. However, for some gamers, including myself, the real question is how easily the system will support homebrew development.

The original Nintendo Switch became iconic not just for its innovative design but for how quickly the homebrew community embraced it. Unlocking the system to run custom software, emulators, and other non-official programs was surprisingly easy. This ability allowed users to customize their consoles and experience gaming in a whole new way. For many, the possibility of running homebrew made the system even more appealing.

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Linux Mint 22.1, codenamed “Xia,” is finally available, offering three desktop environments -- Cinnamon, Xfce, and MATE. This long-term support release will receive updates through 2029.

Cinnamon is the flagship desktop environment of Linux Mint and is the primary focus of this release. Version 6.4 of Cinnamon introduces a refreshed visual design, complete with darker tones, smoother rounded elements, and modernized dialogs. Wayland compatibility has also been improved, ensuring better performance and usability on newer hardware. Enhanced features include redesigned system dialogs, refined multitasking options, and the new Night Light feature, which reduces blue light exposure to improve sleep quality and reduce eyestrain.

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Logitech has introduced the Rally Camera Streamline Kit, a USB Pan Tilt Zoom (PTZ) video solution aimed at supporting hybrid learning environments and modern workspaces. As educational institutions and workplaces continue to adapt to changing needs, the demand for easy-to-use, reliable lecture capture technology has grown. Designed around the Rally Camera, this kit offers simple installation, preset camera controls, and compatibility with popular collaboration platforms.

According to Michele Hermann, vice president and general manager of Logitech for Education, “PTZ cameras with speaker tracking for lecture capture are often overly complex and expensive, adding unnecessary hardware to standard USB AV setups while creating unpredictable and distracting experiences.”

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AVerMedia has introduced two new devices to its GO Series lineup: the ELITE GO GC313Pro Charging Capture and CORE GO GC313 Charging Dock. These products are designed to provide users with reliable charging solutions, video capabilities, and connectivity for a wide range of devices, catering to gamers, content creators, professionals, and students.

The ELITE GO GC313Pro includes a 1080p 60FPS HDMI video capture card, making it suitable for recording and streaming high-quality content. Its compact design incorporates docking features that allow it to function as a versatile 4-in-1 USB charging hub, enabling video output, data transfer, hardware expansion, and device charging. This device supports 4K60 HDMI output, providing the ability to connect to external monitors or TVs. With compatibility for Nintendo Switch, Steam Deck, ROG Ally, MacBook Air/Pro, iPads, iPhones, and more, it offers a flexible solution for various use cases.

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Super Bowl LIX is set to break new ground this year -- not just on the field, but in how you can watch it. FOX Sports is making the big game available for free in stunning 4K on Tubi, signaling yet another move toward streaming platforms and away from traditional cable and broadcast TV. For anyone still clinging to cable for live sports, this move might make you rethink your subscription.

This isn’t just about convenience -- it’s a sign of the times. Streaming platforms like Tubi are making it easier than ever to catch major events without the need for cable. FOX’s free, unauthenticated access means you can watch Super Bowl LIX on nearly any device, from your smart TV to your smartphone, no strings attached. The days of being tied to a cable box to enjoy the biggest sports moments are rapidly fading, and this year’s Super Bowl coverage is a perfect example of that evolution.

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The wildfires devastating Los Angeles have left many communities in crisis, and Google, along with YouTube, is stepping in to help. Recognizing the importance of Los Angeles as a cultural and creative hub, the company has committed $15 million to aid in recovery efforts. This pledge is directed toward organizations providing critical relief, including the American Red Cross, the Center for Disaster Philanthropy, Emergency Network Los Angeles, and the Institute for Nonprofit News.

In addition to financial support, Google is using its technology platforms like Google Search, Google Maps, and Waze to ensure residents have access to accurate and timely updates during the emergency. This demonstrates the company’s focus on both immediate assistance and empowering affected communities with essential information.

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Microsoft is introducing new initiatives aimed at making its Xbox consoles easier to repair while also addressing environmental concerns. These efforts are part of the company’s broader objective to become a zero waste, carbon negative, and water positive organization by the year 2030.

Starting January 20, Xbox console owners will have access to repair services through nearly 700 uBreakiFix by Asurion locations across the U.S. This partnership expands repair options, which were previously limited to Microsoft Store locations. Gamers can now visit these third-party stores to repair Xbox Series X|S consoles, including models like the Xbox Series X – 2TB Galaxy Black Special Edition. Players should check with their local stores to ensure they participate in the program.

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Satechi is marking the Chinese New Year with a fresh color option for its popular Vegan-Leather Magnetic Wallet Stand. The new red version stands out with a sleek design and a gold snake icon, representing wisdom, transformation, and strength for the Year of the Snake.

This wallet stand is compatible with MagSafe technology, ensuring a secure magnetic connection to iPhones. The snap-on design offers a hassle-free way to carry essentials like cards, IDs, or cash. The wallet’s minimalist design keeps things simple, featuring a slim four-card holder that eliminates bulk while keeping everything organized.

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Parents and caregivers will soon have another way to introduce their children to engaging educational content as Ms. Rachel’s videos debut on Netflix later this month. Starting January 27, the streaming platform will offer four curated episodes featuring Rachel Accurso’s unique approach to teaching young children essential skills like talking, reading, and emotional expression.

Ms. Rachel, a beloved educator known for her popular YouTube channel, has garnered more than a billion views by combining music, play, and research-backed methods to create fun and interactive learning experiences. Her videos focus on helping children develop early language skills and build confidence while encouraging bonding with their families. With her relatable and cheerful approach, she has often been compared to iconic figures like Mister Rogers.

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