Keep Your Old Laptop Alive by Installing ChromeOS Flex

If you're looking to boost your productivity, a new floating Google search bar for Windows could be just what you need. This free tool enhances your search experience, making it easier to find what you're looking for without interrupting your workflow. By enabling this feature, you can streamline your tasks and save time, which is essential in today's fast-paced environment.

The latest update for Google’s Pixel Buds Pro 2 introduces exciting features like Adaptive Audio and gesture controls, enhancing the user experience significantly. These improvements not only make listening more intuitive but also showcase Google's commitment to keeping their products at the forefront of technology. This update is a game-changer for users who value both functionality and convenience in their audio devices.

A recent Google report highlights how AI can enhance both the strengths and weaknesses of teams, emphasizing the importance of operational efficiency. The 2025 DORA report identifies seven key practices that distinguish high-performing teams from those that struggle. This insight is crucial for organizations looking to leverage AI effectively to boost productivity and team dynamics.

In our latest review, we put dozens of smartphones to the test, focusing on their camera capabilities. The results highlight the best options from industry leaders like Apple, Google, and Samsung, which consistently produce stunning photos and videos. This matters because as smartphone photography becomes increasingly important for consumers, knowing which devices excel can help you make informed purchasing decisions.

Photoshop has just rolled out an exciting update that integrates Google's viral Nano Banana AI directly into its toolkit. This new feature allows users to leverage advanced AI capabilities for image editing, enhancing creativity and efficiency. It's a game-changer for designers and photographers, making complex tasks easier and more intuitive.

Apple's upcoming Maps app on iOS 26 is generating excitement as it introduces new features that could rival Google Maps, which has been the go-to for many iPhone users. This shift is significant because it highlights Apple's commitment to enhancing user experience and could lead to a more competitive landscape in navigation apps.

The Justice Department is pushing a federal judge in Virginia to compel Google, a subsidiary of Alphabet Inc., to divest parts of its business and alter its operations to foster competition in the online display advertising market. This move highlights ongoing concerns about monopolistic practices in the tech industry and could significantly impact how digital advertising is conducted, potentially leading to more choices for advertisers and consumers alike.

Google Flights is making it easier for travelers to find affordable airfare by providing insights on the best times to book cheap flights. This feature is significant as it empowers users to save money on their travel plans, making it more accessible for everyone to explore new destinations without breaking the bank.

Great news for Google Pixel Buds Pro 2 users! The latest update brings four exciting audio upgrades, including Adaptive Audio, which enhances your listening experience by adjusting sound based on your environment. Plus, you can now use head gestures for controls, enjoy loud noise protection, and benefit from some AI enhancements. These improvements not only make your earbuds more user-friendly but also elevate the overall audio quality, making it a significant upgrade for music lovers and casual listeners alike.

A new wave of malware is making its way from Meta to Google Ads and YouTube, posing a significant threat to users. The malicious ads, disguised as TradingView Premium promotions, are designed to deceive and potentially harm unsuspecting individuals. This development is concerning as it highlights the evolving tactics of cybercriminals and the need for heightened vigilance online. Staying informed and cautious can help protect against these deceptive schemes.

Apple's iOS 26 and Google's Android 16 are packed with exciting new features that enhance user experience, even for those without the latest AI models. The introduction of Apple's Liquid Glass design offers a fresh, translucent look for iPhone icons and notifications, making them visually appealing. Additionally, users can easily adjust settings to improve legibility, ensuring a more comfortable interaction with their devices. These updates matter because they show how both companies are committed to improving usability and aesthetics, keeping users engaged and satisfied.

In a recent comparison of the latest smartwatches from Apple and Google, the Series 11 and Pixel Watch 4, key differences were highlighted that could influence consumer choices. This matters because smartwatches are becoming essential tech accessories, and understanding their features helps users make informed decisions about which device best fits their lifestyle.

Exciting news for retro computing enthusiasts! IEEE Spectrum has teamed up with local science and technology museums to offer a unique opportunity to build your own Commodore 64 cartridge. This initiative not only allows fans to dive deeper into the nostalgia of classic computing but also promotes hands-on learning and engagement with technology. It's a fantastic way to connect with the past while inspiring future generations to explore the world of computing.

In this edition of the Technology newsletter, we explore various intriguing topics including Peter Thiel's controversial views, the ongoing rivalry between Mark Zuckerberg and Elon Musk, and the challenges surrounding AI's spending habits. These discussions are significant as they highlight the evolving landscape of technology and its implications for the future.

OpenAI is facing backlash from ChatGPT subscribers who are upset about recent changes to the platform. Users have accused the company of secretly switching to inferior models, leading to a decline in performance. This situation is significant as it highlights the growing concerns over transparency and user trust in AI technologies, which are crucial for their continued adoption and success.

Recording phone calls on an iPhone can be a useful feature for various reasons, such as keeping track of important conversations or interviews. While Apple does not provide a built-in call recording option due to privacy concerns, there are several third-party apps and methods available that can help users achieve this. Understanding how to navigate these options is important for anyone looking to utilize this feature responsibly and legally.

Apple's internal ChatGPT-style chatbot app is generating buzz, and many believe it should be released to the public. This move could enhance the credibility of Apple's revamped AI system, showcasing its capabilities to a wider audience. Additionally, there's excitement around new MacBooks and external monitors, alongside discussions about the iPhone 17 Pro's 'scratchgate' controversy and Tim Cook's recent memo to employees. This news matters as it highlights Apple's ongoing innovation and the potential impact of its AI developments on the tech landscape.

In an age where privacy is increasingly at risk, using a burner phone can be your best defense against invasive border searches. Even locked devices can be accessed by border patrol, making it crucial to understand the limitations of your personal technology. A burner phone offers a simple, effective solution to protect your sensitive information while traveling, ensuring that your data remains secure and private.