Author: alex

Meta secures nearly 1GW of solar to power AI data centers — why it matters Meta has signed agreements for almost 1 gigawatt of new solar capacity to help power its expanding AI infrastructure and data centers. The procurement comes amid broader industry research showing U.S. data center electricity consumption has more than doubled since 2018 and now represents roughly 4% of national generation — with some projections suggesting AI growth could push that share much higher by the end of the decade. Alongside Meta’s renewable purchases, surveys indicate rising consumer concern that the AI data center boom could translate into higher utility bills. These developments spotlight the energy implications of large‑scale AI deployments and the growing role of long‑term renewable contracts in tech companies’ infrastructure strategies. Key points Meta’s…

Meta secures nearly 1GW of solar to power AI data centers as industry energy demand climbs Meta has signed agreements for almost 1 gigawatt of solar power to support its expanding AI infrastructure and data centers. The move comes amid broader industry trends: data center electricity consumption in the U.S. has more than doubled since 2018 and now accounts for roughly 4% of national generation, with projections that AI growth could push that figure much higher by the end of the decade. Alongside Meta’s procurement, a new survey indicates rising consumer concern that AI’s growing power needs could raise utility bills. These developments underscore the energy implications of large‑scale AI deployments and the growing role of renewable contracts in tech companies’ infrastructure strategies. Key points Meta’s solar deals: Nearly 1GW…

How to create a holographic lock screen with Spatial Scenes in iOS 26 iOS 26 introduces Spatial Scenes, a new personalization feature that turns your lock screen into a dynamic, "holographic" wallpaper. The system uses on‑device machine learning to build a depth map that separates the subject from the background, letting foreground and background move independently as you tilt or move your iPhone. Spatial Scenes work on the lock screen only (you can pair wallpapers if you want the same image on the Home Screen). The effect is supported on iPhone 12 models and newer; it relies on modern chips and image processing, so older devices won’t show the 3D motion. Best photos for Spatial Scenes Choose images with a clear subject in the foreground and a distinct background (portraits,…

Apple deal roundup: iPad Pro (M5) $949, iPad (A16) $299 and other early discounts Apple's latest iPad Pro with the new M5 chip has already seen a modest discount: the base 11-inch Wi‑Fi model (256GB) is down $50 to $949. Several other Apple devices are also on sale, including the standard iPad with the A16 chip for $299 and notable discounts on the Mac mini and MacBook Air. These aren't the deepest Black Friday prices weve seen in past years, but theyre solid early bargains if you want new Apple hardware now rather than waiting. Below are the standout deals and what to consider before buying. Top deals right now Apple iPad Pro (M5, 11-inch) — $949: $50 off the 256GB Wi‑Fi model, making Apples newest Pro a little easier…

Creative launches Sound Blaster Re:Imagine — a modular audio hub (Kickstarter) Creative Labs has launched a Kickstarter for the Sound Blaster Re:Imagine, a modular external audio hub built to route any input to any output with one press. Designed for streamers, musicians and content creators, the Re:Imagine uses magnetic modules that snap onto a programmable base to create a custom I/O and control surface. The default Horizon base includes five module slots (a six‑slot Vertex base is listed as a stretch goal). Modules shown on the Kickstarter include a 3" smart screen, a four‑button pad, a rotary encoder, dual sliders and more, all rearrangeable to suit your workflow. Hardware & platform highlights Compute: Octa‑core ARM processor with a small NPU, 8GB RAM and 16GB flash (expandable via microSD). Audio: High‑resolution…

Creative revives Sound Blaster with Re:Imagine — a modular audio hub Creative is resurrecting the Sound Blaster name with a modern twist: the Sound Blaster Re:Imagine. Unlike classic PCIe sound cards, Re:Imagine is an external, modular audio hub designed to centralize multiple inputs and outputs and act as a single control center for music, streaming and studio workflows. The hub’s modular design lets users swap or add modules for different connectivity and processing needs, potentially replacing a mix of interfaces, adapters and small mixers. That makes the product especially interesting for streamers, podcasters, prosumers and home studios that need flexible routing and quick reconfiguration. Key features (what we know so far) External modular hub: Not a traditional internal sound card — designed to sit on the desk as a central…

Creative unveils Sound Blaster Re:Imagine — a modular audio hub, not a traditional sound card Creative is aiming to reconnect with its Sound Blaster roots, but this time with a modern twist. The new Sound Blaster Re:Imagine is not a PCIe sound card — it’s a modular audio hub designed to bundle multiple inputs and outputs into a single control center for music, streaming and studio setups. Rather than replacing your internal sound card, Re:Imagine appears intended as a flexible external centerpiece that can manage microphones, instruments, headphones and speakers while offering centralized controls. The modular approach suggests you can add or swap modules for different connectivity or processing needs, making it attractive to creators, streamers and prosumers who want a single device that organizes their audio workflow. Key points…

Proton doubles Duo storage to 2TB — more space for two users Proton has upgraded its Duo subscription: the two‑person plan now includes 2TB of cloud storage, up from the previous 1TB. Proton Duo was introduced about a year ago as a lighter alternative to the larger family membership, and this change gives pairs more room without requiring a move to a pricier tier. The Duo upgrade is part of Proton’s ongoing effort to make its privacy‑focused services more flexible for different household sizes. Proton Duo remains positioned for two users who want secure cloud storage and the company’s privacy features without committing to the full family subscription. What’s new Storage increase: Duo now offers 2TB total for two users (previously 1TB). Target audience: Couples, roommates or partners who need…

Dodgers vs. Blue Jays — Game 6: how to watch the 2025 World Series (Oct 31) The Toronto Blue Jays take a series lead as Game 6 of the 2025 World Series returns to Toronto tonight, Friday, Oct. 31 at 8:00 PM ET / 5:00 PM PT. Every game in the series airs on Fox and Fox Deportes, and the matchup could go to a decisive Game 7 on Saturday if needed. If you don’t have cable, there are several easy ways to watch the game live — including free over‑the‑air broadcast if you’re in range of a local Fox affiliate. How to watch — options Over‑the‑air (free): Fox is broadcast over the air — a digital TV antenna will pick up the game if you’re within range of a…

MacBook Air M4 (16GB/256GB) at a record‑low $799 — is it time to buy? The MacBook Air M4 with 16GB of RAM and 256GB storage is on sale for $799 — a substantial discount on our top‑rated Apple laptop. The M4 chip delivers snappy performance, and Apple claims battery life around 18 hours, making it a strong pick for everyday work, creative tasks and travel. Key strengths include a lightweight, sturdy design, a vivid 13‑inch display with P3 wide color support and up to 500 nits of brightness, plus reliable battery life. This configuration balances performance and RAM for multitasking, though storage is modest at 256GB if you keep many local files. What to consider Performance: The M4 chip offers excellent responsiveness for most tasks, outperforming many laptops in its…