Europe’s VCs Are On Pace for Lowest Fundraising Year in a Decade

If you're planning an off-grid adventure and need a phone that won't quit on you, skip the pricey flagship models—this $300 Android (the Oukitel WP56) might be your best bet. It packs a massive 16,000mAh battery (way bigger than most smartphones) and holds its own performance-wise, so you won’t be left stranded without a signal or a dead device when you’re far from civilization.

Editor’s Note: For outdoor enthusiasts, digital nomads, or anyone who hates constantly charging their phone, this is a practical alternative to overpriced, fragile flagships. It’s a reminder that sometimes the best tool for the job isn’t the fanciest—just the one that works when you need it most.

Silicon Valley's latest hot-button issue? Pouring money into Chinese AI firms. Benchmark Capital faced unexpected backlash after leading a $75 million investment in startup Manus, with rival investors raising eyebrows over the geopolitical and competitive implications. It’s a sign of how tense the tech world’s relationship with China has become—even deals that once seemed routine are now sparking drama.

Editor’s Note: This isn’t just about money—it’s about Silicon Valley’s awkward dance with China. As tensions rise between the U.S. and China over tech dominance, investors are getting flak for backing Chinese AI, which some see as funding a rival. The backlash hints at a bigger shift: the line between business and politics in tech is getting blurrier by the day.

Sony is bringing back a special edition PlayStation 5 controller to celebrate 30 years of PlayStation, but don’t wait around—it’s only available for a limited time. The sleek retro design pays homage to the original PlayStation’s gray color scheme, making it a nostalgic must-have for longtime fans.

Editor’s Note: For gamers who missed out the first time or just love collectible gear, this is a second chance to snag a piece of PlayStation history. Limited releases like this tend to sell out fast, so it’s a heads-up for anyone who wants to add a stylish (and functional) throwback to their setup.

Marshall’s Major V Bluetooth headphones are a killer deal right now—even after Prime Day. They’ve got a sleek design, can last up to a week on a single charge, and are currently discounted by 38%. If you’ve been eyeing a pair of stylish, long-lasting headphones without breaking the bank, this might be your moment.

Editor’s Note: Good tech deals don’t always vanish after Prime Day. This discount on Marshall’s popular headphones is a rare post-sale win, especially for anyone who values both aesthetics and endurance in their gear. It’s a solid reminder that patience (or just missing the Prime Day rush) can still pay off.

The FDA just gave the green light to a new natural blue food dye called Gardenia blue, made from genipin—a compound found in gardenia fruits. It’s the fourth plant-based color additive approved this year, joining a growing list of alternatives to synthetic dyes. The process involves extracting and fermenting genipin to create a vibrant, stable blue hue for foods and beverages.

Editor’s Note: As consumers push for cleaner labels and fewer artificial ingredients, this approval is a win for both food manufacturers and health-conscious eaters. It’s another step toward ditching synthetic dyes without sacrificing color—think brighter smoothies or candies, minus the lab-made chemicals. Plus, it’s a nod to how science is tapping into nature to make our food safer (and more Instagrammable).