Google services are experiencing a partial outage

NordVPN is offering a sweet deal—sign up for a discounted subscription, and they’ll throw in a free Amazon gift card as a bonus. It’s a classic "get more for less" promo, likely aiming to lure in new users with a little extra incentive.

Editor’s Note: If you’ve been on the fence about using a VPN, this might tip the scales. Free gift cards are always a nice perk, but remember to check the fine print—like how long the subscription locks you in. For bargain hunters, it’s worth a quick look.

Apple's upcoming iOS 26 update is jam-packed with new features, but iPhone users have singled out five that really stand out. From game-changing AI integrations to slick interface tweaks, these are the upgrades that have fans buzzing—straight from the community's most-wanted list.

Editor’s Note: For iPhone loyalists, iOS updates are like mini holidays—this breakdown cuts through the noise to highlight what actually matters to users. It’s a pulse check on which innovations could reshape daily phone use, and a hint at where Apple’s priorities lie. If you’re debating whether to upgrade, these crowd favorites might tip the scales.

The U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has started deploying Predator B drones over Los Angeles, marking a significant shift in federal involvement in local affairs. These drones, typically used for military and border surveillance, are now monitoring urban areas—raising concerns about privacy, overreach, and the normalization of militarized surveillance in civilian spaces.

Editor’s Note: This isn’t just about drones in the sky—it’s about the creeping expansion of federal surveillance into everyday life. If agencies like CBP can operate military-grade drones over cities without clear limits or public debate, it sets a troubling precedent for how much oversight and autonomy local communities really have. For Angelenos, it’s a tangible reminder of how easily privacy can erode under the guise of security.

Samsung is rolling out new AI-powered smart monitors, and they're sweetening the deal for early birds—reserve one now and you’ll get $100 off, plus a shot at winning a free Galaxy tablet and other AI goodies. It’s a classic promo play: discount plus a flashy giveaway to grab attention.

Editor’s Note: If you’ve been eyeing a smart monitor upgrade, this is one of those limited-time offers that might tip the scales. Freebies and discounts are always a win for shoppers, but the real hook here is the early access to Samsung’s latest AI-driven tech—so it’s worth a look if you’re into cutting-edge displays. For Samsung, it’s a smart way to drum up hype before launch.

Google is testing a fresh take on AI coaching with "Portraits," a project that lets you get advice from digital versions of real-life experts—think career coaches, fitness gurus, or even therapists—tailored just for you. It’s like having a personal mentor in your pocket, but powered by AI that mimics actual human professionals.

Editor’s Note: If this works, it could shake up how we access expertise—no expensive sessions or scheduling hassles, just on-demand guidance. But it also raises big questions: Can AI truly replicate human wisdom? And who gets to decide which "experts" the bots emulate? Worth keeping an eye on.