tips and techniques for enhancing TV picture quality, along with disabling subsampling, can yield significant improvements. To achieve this, you must manually activate chroma 4:4:4 support in your TV’s display settings. Search for an option labeled “HDMI UHD Color” and enable it for the HDMI port connected to your PC. Additionally, ensure that you are utilizing the “PC” picture preset.
Royal Navy revealed a £316 million agreement (approximately $414 million) to outfit its Type 45 destroyers with the advanced laser weapon DragonFire. This funding signifies a significant advancement in enhancing NATO’s drone defenses and provides Europe with its inaugural high-powered defense system utilizing lasers. It is also regarded as a substantial achievement for NATO’s defenses, aiming to adjust to a continuously changing technological environment.
In recent years, drones have become an increasing concern for military organizations worldwide. These unmanned vehicles, extensively employed during the Russia-Ukraine conflict, have turned into a main weapon for both factions, responsible for up to 80% of all casualties by early 2025. Less expensive and less hazardous than their manned equivalents, unmanned aerial, maritime, and terrestrial vehicles have consistently evolved into significant threats for conventional defense systems, partly due to the imbalanced expenses associated with their deployment and defense. Consequently, the technology has proliferated, emerging as a favored reconnaissance and assault mechanism for various groups, from drug cartels and Burmese insurgents to the Israeli armed forces. Even the FBI is exploring the utilization of unjammable drones.
The U.K. experienced the difficulties of creating anti-drone defenses firsthand in April 2024, when its Type 45 vessel HMS Diamond successfully repelled swarms of Houthi-operated drones targeting merchant ships in the Red Sea. The operation, which the destroyer countered using its Sea Viper missile system, Phalanx machine gun, and 30mm cannons, highlighted the inadequacies of contemporary defense mechanisms against drone offensives and the urgent need for funding to combat the technology. Establishing a diverse array of defensive strategies is vital to creating comprehensive, adaptable protections, especially as military drone technology progresses. For example, Russia’s jet-powered Geran-3 drone can evade electronic defenses, necessitating varied anti-drone solutions to ensure protection.
Announced in a Ministry of Defence communiqué in November 2025, the Strategic Defence Review’s £316 million contract will enable defense contractor MBDA UK to install the inaugural DragonFire laser on a Type 45 destroyer by 2027, five years ahead of schedule. Created in collaboration with defense companies Leonardo and QinetiQ, MBDA UK’s directed energy weapon system has demonstrated remarkable efficacy in recent assessments, becoming the first U.K.-made system capable of neutralizing above-the-horizon drones flying over 400 mph.
Positioned on a rotating turret, the system employs electro-optical cameras and tracking lasers to detect and follow rapidly moving drones. While the complete range of the weapon remains classified, the U.K.’s Defence Science and Technology Laboratory has indicated that the high-powered laser “is a line-of-sight weapon and can engage any visible target.” The Ministry of Defense claims the laser boasts incredible precision, able to hit a £1 coin situated approximately a kilometer away.
Nonetheless, the standout achievement of the DragonFire laser lies in its cost-effectiveness compared to more conventional defense systems. On a per-shot basis, the laser system costs about £10. In contrast, the Sea Viper missile system, utilized by Type 45 destroyers to intercept Houthi drones in the Red Sea, exceeds £1 million per missile. This significant cost reduction serves as an advantage for the U.K.’s drone defenses, where standard weaponry expenses
### Pluribus Merchandise: Display Your Support for the Series
As enthusiasts eagerly anticipate the debut of **Pluribus Season 2**, there’s a fresh way to convey your excitement for the show. Official merchandise is now on offer, enabling you to flaunt your beloved series with pride. From t-shirts to hoodies and hats, there’s something for every admirer.
#### Merchandise Selection
The official **Pluribus merchandise** features:
– **T-Shirts**: Showcasing iconic designs, including a special tee honoring Rhea Seehorn’s recent Best Actress win at the Golden Globes, prominently displaying her image with a grenade.
– **Hoodies**: Ideal for chilly weather, these hoodies blend comfort with style, making them an excellent addition to any fan’s collection.
– **Hats**: Complete your ensemble with a fashionable hat that announces your fandom for Pluribus.
You can discover all these products available for purchase through the [Sony Pictures online store](https://sonypicturesstore.com/collections/pluribus).
#### The Link to Sony
The alliance between Apple TV and Sony Television has been crucial in bringing **Pluribus** to fruition. This partnership arises from a long-standing relationship with the show’s creator, Vince Gilligan. Consequently, the merchandise is exclusively offered through Sony, instead of directly from Apple.
#### Upcoming Merchandise
There is a possibility for additional items to be included in the collection if the initial offerings are well-received. Fans are urged to act swiftly if they wish to obtain their favorite pieces, particularly with the excitement of Season 2 approaching.
#### Subscription Details
For anyone who hasn’t yet indulged in **Pluribus**, Apple TV is accessible for **$12.99 per month**. Furthermore, you can enjoy it at a reduced price through the [Apple One bundle](http://one.apple.com/?at=1000l3cvR&itscg=30200).
Whether you’re looking to purchase some Pluribus merchandise or simply wish to stay updated with the latest developments about the series, now is the ideal time to demonstrate your support for this beloved Apple TV show.
Apple has announced a long-term collaboration with Google to deploy Gemini models for improving Siri and Apple Intelligence functionalities. In a statement given to CNBC, Apple shared its excitement about utilizing Google’s technology, stating, “After thorough assessment, we concluded that Google’s technology offers the most robust foundation for Apple Foundation Models and we’re eager about the groundbreaking new experiences it will create for our users.”
This partnership will involve Apple embedding Google’s Gemini models into upcoming versions of its Apple Foundation Models. Although exact timelines for the introduction of new Siri and Apple Intelligence functionalities have not been revealed, CNBC indicates that these improvements are anticipated to launch later this year.
During WWDC 2024, Apple unveiled the Apple Intelligence ecosystem, highlighting features such as Writing Tools, Image Playground, and Genmoji, along with an updated iteration of Siri that encompasses personal context, in-app actions, and on-screen awareness. While numerous features have been implemented, the new Siri version experienced delays, with Apple admitting in a statement last May that the deployment was taking more time than expected.
This collaboration follows extensive coverage by Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, who mentioned that Apple plans to allocate around $1 billion each year for access to Google’s Gemini models. The new Siri is expected to be driven by a 1.2 trillion parameter AI model, greatly boosting its functionalities.
Neither Apple nor Google has verified the specific technical or financial aspects of this agreement, but the partnership signifies a major advancement in the development of Siri and Apple’s AI-enabled features.
### Are You Alive? The App Transforming Safety for Solo Residents in China
In a time when technology is becoming more integrated into everyday life, a novel app named **Are You Alive?** has surfaced as an unexpected yet crucial resource for people residing alone in China. Launched in May of the previous year, this app has swiftly gained popularity, emerging as the most downloaded paid app in the nation, especially among younger urban residents.
#### Idea and Functionality
The concept of **Are You Alive?** is simple yet significant. Users must check in every two days by tapping a prominent button within the app to verify their wellness. If a user neglects to check in, the app promptly notifies a specified emergency contact to inform them that the user might be in trouble. This feature tackles a considerable worry for those living independently, offering reassurance and a safety mechanism in times of crisis.
#### Increasing Popularity
The app’s appeal has rapidly increased in recent times, mirroring a wider societal trend within China. Researchers estimate that by 2030, the country will host around **200 million single-person households**. This demographic transition has created a rising demand for solutions aimed at ensuring the safety and welfare of individuals living alone. Consequently, **Are You Alive?** has struck a chord with many, particularly in urban settings where feelings of isolation can be common.
#### International Presence
Although the app is mainly favored in China, it is also accessible for download internationally under the name **Demumu**. In the United States, it has ascended to be the #6 top paid app in the App Store, available for just $0.99. The title **Are You Alive?** cleverly plays on words, reminiscent of a popular food delivery app named **Are You Hungry?**, with the Chinese expression “Si-le-ma” sounding akin to the food app’s name “E-le-ma.”
#### Future Considerations
The triumph of **Are You Alive?** prompts inquiries about the possibility of integrating similar features into existing applications. For example, Apple’s iOS could enhance its current Check In feature in Messages, enabling users to schedule regular check-ins for increased safety. As technology advances, the necessity for such features could spur innovative solutions that focus on user safety.
#### Closing Thoughts
**Are You Alive?** transcends being merely an amusing app; it signifies a notable shift in how technology can improve personal safety and well-being for those who live alone. As its popularity expands, it could lead to new advancements in app features that address the needs of a growing solitary population.
long-anticipated iPhone Fold model. As Apple set the stage for consolidating iOS, iPadOS, and macOS with the latest iterations of these systems, iOS 27 is expected to introduce numerous new multitasking capabilities that we won’t learn about this summer, as the company aims to keep its major plans under wraps until the September event.
Alongside this, Apple will need to address other significant iOS enhancements during the WWDC 2026 keynote, and we believe these could be a few of them.
Amazon, swap out AA batteries in compatible devices, and eliminate battery changes — particularly for items that remain stationary like holiday lights, strip lights, and similar products. You could cut costs with a solution like this, even when factoring in the low prices of Costco’s budget-friendly Kirkland batteries and Amazon Basics’ similarly low-cost alternatives.
Here’s how Lenink’s adapter and batteries function: The system provides a constant power supply to the battery-operated device through an ultra-slim and flat cable linking to a core dummy battery. When the three AA batteries are placed into the device and the power adapter is connected to an outlet, the adapter delivers power as long as it remains plugged in. Since these dummy batteries are actually components of the adapter and not rechargeable batteries, there’s no need to recharge or replace them.
These batteries and the power adapter are designed for devices that need low electrical current — the system delivers 4.5 volts and 1 A. Therefore, they cannot power devices that consume high amounts of electricity, but they work excellently for accessories such as holiday decorations, strip lights, clocks, and other low-power gadgets.
The Lenink AA battery and power adapter kit has received over 2,400 worldwide reviews on Amazon, achieving a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars. Additionally, 86% of those reviews are five-star ratings, with 9% scoring four stars, resulting in a total of 95% of all reviews being four stars or higher, indicating that users highly appreciate this kit. While somewhat straightforward, reviewers have referred to it as a “battery saver,” a “fantastic” alternative, and noted it is “very clever” and “functions flawlessly” for their requirements. One reviewer even mentions they are abandoning batteries for their holiday displays.
However, the feedback isn’t entirely positive. Some one-star reviews highlight that the batteries need to be placed correctly to function. Other users express concerns about the product’s overall dependability and mention possible overheating issues, but Lenink asserts that the kit and batteries are designed with protections against overcurrent, overcharge, and short circuits. Another drawback is that your device will lose all portability that it would have with standard batteries, so the adapter isn’t suitable for items like remote controls.
At $15.99, if you have low-power lighting or gadgets you’d like to try these with, testing out the kit might be worthwhile at that price. Even when comparing some of the leading battery brands available, the Lenink price is reasonable for a product that provides continuous power. It’s not just about the money saved.
Intel characterizes Optane as “a system acceleration solution placed between the processor and slower storage devices” that permits “the computer to keep frequently used data and programs nearer to the processor.” Consequently, the system gains rapid access to that data, enhancing “overall system responsiveness.” Ultimately, Intel was unable to reduce the costs of Optane technology sufficiently to make it viable for sale, leading to the project’s discontinuation. Additionally, alternatives emerged such as the DDR5 standard, Micron’s LPCAMM2 laptop modules, and compute express link (CXL) technology, which are faster, less expensive, and more versatile.
RAM acts as an ultra-fast, temporary method for holding data while applications are in operation. When
Until fairly recently, electric vehicles were more of a novelty than a practical choice. They were sluggish, poorly constructed, underpowered, and unable to travel long distances. Most crucially, the electric model didn’t adapt well to SUVs, as individuals use them not only for urban driving but also for off-road situations and towing capabilities. Thankfully, as governments worldwide have advocated for greater EV usage, manufacturers have progressed as well. Nowadays, electric vehicles can travel several hundred miles, often cost less to maintain than gasoline vehicles, and the immediate torque and power at your command can become quite appealing.
If you’ve been delaying your electric SUV acquisition, 2026 may be your year. This is because even traditional manufacturers like Honda, Toyota, and Land Rover are prepared to join the electric movement by introducing new EV ranges. To assist you in making this choice, we’ve compiled a list of fifteen electric SUVs to keep an eye on in 2026 and beyond.
**Acura RSX**
The initial RSX stands as one of the most legendary cars from the Japanese manufacturer. It was available in the U.S. from 2001 to 2006 and won the admiration of automotive fans with a four-cylinder engine that delivered 210 horsepower at 7,800 rpm and was coupled with a six-speed manual transmission. The outcome was a vehicle that was agile, sporty, and outperformed many pricier cars of its time. Furthermore, the original RSX was visually striking.
Acura is now reviving the RSX name for a new electric SUV that, unlike its first EV, the ZDX, is constructed on Honda’s all-new “0 Series” EV platform. The design represents a significant shift from the original RSX, as the new model is a sporty SUV coupe with four doors, showcasing a flowing roofline and a ducktail-style rear spoiler.
While details about performance, range, and 0-60 acceleration times remain undisclosed, the new RSX will incorporate Honda’s ASIMO operating system, which is expected to bring substantial enhancements to the infotainment setup, including over-the-air updates, an adjustable driving experience based on user preferences, and a variety of new safety features. Acura’s new factory in Ohio will produce the vehicle, and recent reports suggest that pricing could commence around $50,000.
**BMW iX3**
BMW’s design approach has stirred debate in recent times, as many fans have criticized the oversized “beaver-toothed” grille found on several models. Well, BMW has heeded the feedback and reduced the grille size on the new iX3, but this has led to another issue. Since the automaker opted for a sleeker grille, it now bears a resemblance to a rabbit’s teeth instead. One Reddit user remarked, “We heard you don’t favor the gigantic grilles, so we’ve made this one comically small.”
No matter your personal views on the design, BMWs retain their classic traits, and the iX3, part of the Neue Klasse platform, promises to be no exception. In the U.S., the iX3 will arrive equipped with dual electric motors that collectively produce 463 hp, enabling it to accelerate from a standstill to 60 mph in an estimated 4.2 seconds. The battery boasts a 109-kWh capacity, which the manufacturer claims will yield a range of 400 miles.
Charging has been significantly improved, as the iX3 is capable of recharging at up to 400 kW, allowing for 230 miles of range in just 10 minutes. Additionally, BMW has revamped the interior, featuring a uniquely shaped 17.9-inch infotainment system that also manages climate controls, and a 43.0-inch display for gauges that presents a highly modern look. The starting price for the new iX3 is expected to be around $60,000, with sales set to begin in summer 2026.
**Chevy Bolt**
In today’s unpredictable economic landscape, not everyone can spend $100K on an EV. Luckily, if you’re searching for a family-sized electric vehicle that remains affordable, the Chevy Bolt is making a comeback for the 2027 model year. Priced at $28,995, the new Bolt keeps the same silhouette but features refreshed front and rear designs that look attractive and harmonize with other contemporary EVs. Inside, there’s a new 11.3-inch touchscreen that will manage all performance metrics, yet thankfully, physical climate controls are still included. Since GM has discontinued Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, mirroring your phone is not an option, requiring reliance on the integrated Google apps.
Beneath the hood, the new Bolt will come with a 210-hp motor that, when paired with the 65-kWh lithium-iron-phosphate (LFP) battery, should deliver approximately 255 miles of range. Charging has seen a substantial enhancement, rising from 55 kW to 150 kW.
Google has announced a new open standard known as Universal Commerce Protocol (UCP) that enables AI agents to shop, complete purchases, and manage payments on your behalf. This groundbreaking protocol seeks to enhance the online shopping journey by enabling AI agents to handle product searches, comparisons, cart additions, and checkouts with one command. UCP standardizes the interactions among AI agents, retailers, and payment processors, establishing a unified language for effortless transactions.
Google has collaborated with significant entities such as Shopify, Walmart, Visa, and others to implement this protocol. Initially, UCP-enabled checkout will be accessible in AI Mode within Google Search and the Gemini app in the U.S., utilizing Google Pay and Google Wallet for transactions. Support for PayPal and additional features like loyalty rewards is expected to be introduced soon.
For enterprises, Google is rolling out Business Agents, virtual sales helpers that provide product information in the brand’s voice, along with Direct Offers, which deliver exclusive coupons within AI Mode. This advancement sets the stage for AI-driven shopping experiences, simplifying purchases to a single tap.
