Why hacking yourself first is essential for proactive cybersecurity

If you're worried about privacy while streaming, Apple TV 4K might still be your safest choice—not because it's flawless, but because it doesn't bombard you with ads or track your viewing habits as aggressively as other platforms. A new report highlights that Apple's approach keeps ads (and the data collection that comes with them) from dominating the experience, which is rare in today's ad-saturated streaming landscape.

Editor’s Note: In a world where free streaming services often feel like a trade-off between convenience and being constantly watched by advertisers, Apple's stance on keeping ads minimal is a big deal. It’s not just about avoiding annoying commercials—it’s about having more control over your data. For privacy-conscious viewers, that’s a compelling reason to stick with (or switch to) Apple TV.

AT&T is rolling out a new budget-friendly mobile plan specifically for customers aged 55 and up, offering lower rates than their regular options. The plan is nationwide, making it accessible to qualifying seniors across the U.S.

Editor’s Note: For older adults on fixed incomes, every dollar counts—and cell plans aren’t getting any cheaper. AT&T’s move acknowledges that affordability matters for this demographic, while also tapping into a competitive market where carriers often fight for older customers with simplified, value-driven options. It’s a win for eligible subscribers, but also a smart play by AT&T to retain loyalty in an age group less likely to switch providers frequently.

California lawmakers just passed a bill designed to make AI chatbots safer, especially for kids. It’s a direct response to growing worries from parents about how these bots interact with young users—think inappropriate content, privacy risks, or just plain weird conversations. The state’s stepping in to set some ground rules.

Editor’s Note: Chatbots are everywhere now, and while they can be helpful or fun, they’re also kind of a wild west. This bill signals that lawmakers are finally catching up, trying to rein in the risks without stifling innovation. For parents, it’s a step toward peace of mind—but the real test will be how these rules actually play out in practice.

The Allen Institute for AI just upgraded its tool called RewardBench to help companies pick better AI models for real-world use. Turns out, many AI models that look great in testing fail when actually deployed—this update aims to close that gap by evaluating models in more realistic scenarios.

Editor’s Note: If you’ve ever rolled out an AI model only to watch it stumble in the wild, you’re not alone. This tweak to RewardBench could save businesses time and money by spotting which models actually perform when it counts—not just in a controlled lab. It’s a nudge toward AI that works as advertised.

New research suggests that brain aging doesn't happen at a steady pace—instead, it seems to hit key transition points, with midlife emerging as a potential "critical window" where changes accelerate or shift direction. Think of it like your brain's software updating in big, irregular patches rather than a slow, continuous download. The findings could reshape how we approach cognitive health in adulthood.

Editor’s Note: If midlife is truly a tipping point for brain aging, it could mean we've been overlooking a crucial period for interventions—whether through lifestyle, medicine, or preventive care. This isn't just about memory lapses; it's about understanding when and how to protect our cognitive resilience. For anyone over 40, that’s pretty compelling.