Ubuntu Linux 25.04 is called Plucky Puffin
Canonical took to Twitter today to announce the name of its next Ubuntu release: Plucky Puffin. Sticking with its tradition of alliterative animal names, this moniker for Ubuntu 25.04 joins the ranks of past versions like Groovy Gorilla and Jammy Jellyfish. While no specific details have been shared yet regarding what features or improvements Plucky Puffin will bring, the name alone is enough to generate buzz among Linux enthusiasts.
Ubuntu has consistently delivered updates that focus on performance enhancements, security improvements, and new features. With each release, Canonical strives to make Ubuntu more accessible and powerful for both casual users and enterprise environments. However, it will be interesting to see if Plucky Puffin offers any major new developments or simply improves existing features. The Linux community will undoubtedly be watching closely for any signs of innovation.
ecobee Smart Thermostat Lite launches exclusively for HVAC professionals
ecobee has announced the new ecobee Smart Thermostat Lite, a device designed specifically for HVAC professionals. This thermostat is available exclusively through Pro distribution channels, and its ease of installation, durability, and reliability are key selling points. Unlike some other smart thermostats, the Smart Thermostat Lite is hardwired, removing the need for charging or secondary power sources.
According to ecobee, the Smart Thermostat Lite was developed with input from HVAC professionals and builds upon previous generations of ecobee products. The thermostat is compatible with most HVAC systems, including multi-stage heating and cooling systems, radiant heating, and dual-fuel setups. It also supports additional accessories such as humidifiers and dehumidifiers. Even for homes without a C-wire, the Smart Thermostat Lite can be adapted using the ecobee Power Extender Kit.
Third-party risk and resilience in DORA
In February 2016, it was reported that threat actors exploited vulnerabilities in the SWIFT banking network to steal more than $80 million from the central bank of Bangladesh. SWIFT, the global financial system’s main electronic payment system, which processes billions of dollars of transactions every day, was unprepared for the threat of a major cyber attack. The incident served as a pivotal wake-up call for the entire financial services industry, highlighting the previously underestimated systemic risks posed by unsecured systems. It reinforced the need for stronger security controls, safeguards and a more proactive approach to cybersecurity across the sector.
Today, organizations understand that it’s a matter of when -- not if -- their organization or supply chain is targeted with a cyber attack. Threats continue to increase in sophistication and frequency, particularly when it comes to ransomware.
How strong is Nvidia as an alternative investment?
Alternatives are an increasingly attractive investment opportunity. Why? An alternative investment offers an investor the opportunity to diversify their portfolio and mitigate risk.
A growing trend is investment in the technology sector, this is a good move and an opportunity I have spotted for myself. Technology is a global economic focus, countries, governments and organizations are racing to get up to speed and get ahead of technological innovation. Economic investment is a byproduct of the competition, so it is unwise not to see the investment opportunities here.
Arlo introduces new Wired Floodlight Camera for continuous outdoor security
Arlo has introduced its Wired Floodlight Camera, a new hardwired security solution designed to provide continuous outdoor surveillance. Building on the company’s wire-free floodlight technology, the camera features 2K HDR video resolution and up to 2000 lumens of brightness. Available now at Arlo.com for $149.99, it will also be sold at Home Depot starting in November.
The camera offers a 160-degree field of view and articulating lights, allowing users to customize coverage for different outdoor spaces. Its features include motion detection, color night vision, noise-canceling audio, and an integrated siren. The product connects directly to Wi-Fi for a simplified setup process and faster video loading.
Dynabook Portégé X30L-M is the world’s lightest AI-powered 13.3-inch metal business laptop
Dynabook has launched the Portégé X30L-M, starting at under $1,399. The company claims it is the world’s lightest AI-powered 13.3-inch metal chassis business laptop. Weighing just 855 grams, the Portégé X30L-M is designed to offer portability without compromising on performance. It features Intel’s 28-watt H-series Core Ultra processors, Intel Arc Graphics, and various AI capabilities aimed at enhancing productivity for professionals on the go.
Dynabook highlights that the laptop’s construction uses a dark blue magnesium alloy, allowing it to meet MIL-STD-810H durability standards while keeping the weight under two pounds. It features a 16:10 WUXGA display for increased screen space, paired with Intel Arc Graphics for enhanced visuals in tasks like presentations and creative work. It offers up to 64GB of LPDDR5x memory and up to 2TB of SSD storage, designed to handle demanding applications.
CISOs concerned about attackers using AI
Data from a recent survey conducted by RSA Conference shows that 72 percent of Fortune 1000 CISOs say they have already seen threat actors using generative AI against their organization.
AI-generated phishing emails are the top threat, with 70 percent of CISOs reporting that they've observed highly tailored phishing emails targeting their business Other top GenAI threats include vishing (37 percent), automated hacking (22 percent), deepfakes (21 percent) and misinformation (17 percent).
Raycon launches Bone Conduction Headphones
Raycon has launched its latest product, the Bone Conduction Headphones, available in gray for $99.99. The headphones are built with an open-ear design, allowing users to remain aware of their surroundings while listening to music or podcasts. This design choice is aimed at enhancing safety and situational awareness, particularly for those who exercise outdoors or move through busy environments.
These headphones are designed to be durable, featuring an IP68 water and dust protection rating, which makes them suitable for various weather conditions and intense workouts. Raycon highlights these features as ideal for outdoor runners, cyclists, and those who need secure and reliable audio equipment in challenging environments.
Apple unveils new iPad mini with A17 Pro chip and Apple Pencil Pro support
Apple has introduced its latest iPad mini, featuring the A17 Pro chip and support for Apple Intelligence, a system designed to provide helpful and relevant information while maintaining user privacy. The new iPad mini keeps its familiar 8.3-inch Liquid Retina display and ultraportable design, available in four finishes, including blue and purple.
The A17 Pro chip brings performance improvements, with Apple claiming a 30 percent boost in CPU performance and a 25 percent increase in GPU capabilities compared to the previous model. This chip also supports hardware-accelerated ray tracing, enabling enhanced gaming experiences. Users can also expect more from apps utilizing the new power, from photo editing to immersive augmented reality.
Dark web activity targets US election
A new report from Fortinet shows a range of activity around the upcoming US election including phishing scams aimed at voters and malicious domain registrations impersonating candidates.
Threat actors are selling affordable phishing kits on the dark net designed to target voters and donors by impersonating the presidential candidates and their campaigns.
A quarter of cybersecurity leaders are ready to quit
A new survey finds that 24 percent of CISOs or IT security decision makers (ITS DMs) are actively looking to leave their position.
The research, commissioned by BlackFog, finds that a further 54 percent, while not actively looking to quit, are open to new opportunities.
Stunning software giveaway: Save over $500 on tools for video editing, password recovery, and more -- it's all free!
MiniTool is hosting an early Thanksgiving Giveaway, partnering with 11 leading software vendors to offer 15 paid software titles that users can claim entirely free of charge. This limited-time promotion ends on October 28th, making it a great opportunity to save money on essential tools for various needs.
Some of the highlights include MiniTool ShadowMaker Pro, typically $29, which provides professional-level backup and disaster recovery solutions, and MiniTool MovieMaker Pro, a video editing program that usually costs $59. MiniTool Video Converter Pro allows for easy and fast video conversion and is regularly priced at $39.
Ready to leave Windows 11? Solus Linux 4.6 is the gorgeous alternative you deserve
The Solus team has officially launched Solus 4.6 “Convergence,” offering a refreshed Linux experience that brings desktop environment updates, kernel improvements, and enhanced hardware support. For those looking for an alternative to Windows 11, Solus 4.6 provides a compelling option, especially for users interested in performance, customization, and open-source software.
In this release, Solus includes updated ISOs with file names that now reflect the release channel and the date of generation. The OS continues to offer popular default applications, such as Firefox 131.0.3, LibreOffice 24.2.5.2, and Thunderbird 128.3.1, ensuring users have the essential tools out of the box. For multimedia, Budgie and GNOME editions come with Rhythmbox for audio and Celluloid for video playback, while XFCE features Parole and Plasma opts for Elisa and Haruna.
New expert community seeks to address identity vulnerabilities
Most cybersecurity incidents start with some sort of identity compromise, whether that identity is human or machine.
In order to help organizations gain visibility into their identity security posture Anetac is setting up a community to serve as a collaborative space where cybersecurity leaders, practitioners, and researchers can learn and engage with experts on identity vulnerabilities related to human and non-human identities.
Upgrading to Windows 11 24H2 fails to clean up 8.63 GB of its own crap
Upgrading Windows can be fraught with problems, annoyances and niggles, some more serious than others. Given Microsoft’s track record, it should come as news to no one that the recently released Windows 11 24H2 update has a selection of issues.
One of the more curious quirks is the discovery by many people that the update fails to clean up after itself properly. An astonishing 8.63 GB is the amount of undeletable data many who have installed the Windows 11 2024 Update find is left behind. So what to do?
© 1998-2025 BetaNews, Inc. All Rights Reserved. About Us - Privacy Policy - Cookie Policy - Sitemap.