Spotify's "Mix der Woche": Genre controls only via iPhone app Spotify has added genre-selection controls to its Discover Weekly ("Mix der Woche") playlist — but currently the controls are available only in the iPhone app. Since July, iPhone users can choose up to five genres at the top of the playlist to steer recommendations toward specific styles (pop, electronic, jazz, techno, etc.). Important points: iPhone app: Genre selection controls present — select up to 5 genres to personalize your weekly mix. Mac app & Web Player: These platforms currently show the resulting playlist but do not display the genre-selection controls themselves. Effect: Choosing genres on iPhone changes what appears on Mac and Web, but those apps don’t yet let you change the genre selection. Why it matters: This gives mobile…

Osaurus: Open-source Apple Silicon LLM server brings local AI to Macs Osaurus is an open-source, Apple Silicon–native language model server designed to run local LLMs on M1/M2 (and newer) Macs. Lightweight (around 7 MB), Swift-native, and compatible with the OpenAI REST API, Osaurus aims to be a performant Ollama alternative that keeps models and data on device for better privacy and offline use. Key features Apple Silicon optimized (uses Apple ML frameworks) for improved speed on M1/M2/Pro/Max chips Extremely small footprint (~7 MB binary) Runs local models entirely offline — no cloud calls by default Implements the OpenAI-compatible REST API for easy integration Supports advanced features like KV-cache reuse, tool calling, and chat templates Why it matters For macOS users who prioritize data privacy and want low-latency local AI, Osaurus…

Anker Solix Wallbox V1: Smart EV Charger Integrates with Solar Anker has expanded its Solix home-energy ecosystem with the Solix Wallbox V1 — a smart EV charging station designed to integrate with home solar arrays and Solix battery storage. Key features Variants: multiple options targeting different installations Charging power: supports 7.4 kW (single‑phase) and 11 kW (three‑phase) App control and smart scheduling to prioritise solar energy use Seamless integration with Anker Solix modular battery systems Availability The Wallbox V1 is being rolled out in the EU and offered in several configurations aimed at users who want to route solar generation to their EV. For the most current purchase and regional availability information, check the official Anker Solix site linked below. More info Official product and brand info: https://www.ankersolix.com Discussion Would…

Google Vids: New AI features and a free basic tier Google has expanded its video editor, Google Vids, with several generative-AI features and — for the first time — a free basic tier for all users. The update aims to make video production easier and more accessible for businesses and private creators. Key features AI Avatars: Avatars that speak user-written scripts with selectable voices and personas — useful for training, demos, and onboarding. Image-to-video: Convert images into videos using the Veo 3 model. Automated transcript trimming: Removes filler words and long pauses to produce cleaner edits. Free basic tier: Provides essential editing tools, templates, fonts and stock media for consumers (AI features may require Workspace or Google AI subscriptions). Planned additions: Noise cancellation, background filters, and additional aspect ratios are…

EV13 — Free Light Meter App for iPhone EV13 is a free light-meter app for iPhone developed by Minsang Choi (who previously worked on Gboard and Google Lens). The app is aimed at film and classic-camera photographers and offers a simple, tactile interface inspired by analog meters. Key features Tactile, analog-style controls Automatic exposure reading Meter preview and recording functionality Designed with film photographers in mind Availability EV13 is available on the Apple App Store: EV13 on the App Store Developer page: Minsang Choi on the App Store Why it matters For photographers who shoot film or use classic cameras, a reliable light meter is essential. EV13 offers a mobile, free alternative with an interface that echoes traditional meters — handy when you want quick readings without carrying extra gear.…

Google: Reports of a 'Major' Gmail Security Issue Are False — What You Need to Know Google has publicly debunked recent reports claiming a "major" Gmail security issue affecting all users. In an update on its blog, Google said those reports are inaccurate and that its protections remain strong — blocking over 99.9% of phishing and malware attempts. The confusion appears to stem from a previously reported incident involving a Salesforce instance used by Google. That incident, first disclosed in June, involved limited data exposure and follow-up notifications to affected parties; it is not the same as a platform-wide Gmail breach affecting 2.5 billion users. Key links: Google’s statement: https://blog.google/products/workspace/gmail-security-protections/ Reporting and context: Engadget Further reading: Tom's Guide What you should do Enable passkeys and two-factor authentication (2FA) for your…

Labor Day 2025 — Top Tech Deals You Can Still Grab Labor Day marks the unofficial end of summer and a solid chance to score discounts on tech — from laptops and tablets to robot vacuums, headphones and power banks. Below are curated top picks (prices noted where available) and quick links so you can check availability. Top Picks Apple MacBook Air (13", M4) — $799 (deal highlighted). Lightweight, long battery life; popular laptop pick. Apple iPad (11", A16) — $299. Entry-level iPad with solid A16 performance. Apple iPad Air (11", M3) — $449. More color-rich display and better accessory support. Sony WH-CH520 headphones — $35. Good sound and long battery life. Available on Amazon: Sony WH-CH520 on Amazon. Dyson 360 Vis Nav robot vacuum — $500 off in some…

China's social platforms begin labeling AI-generated content under new law Major Chinese platforms — WeChat, Douyin (TikTok China), Weibo and Xiaohongshu (RedNote) — have started rolling out labels for AI-generated content to comply with the "Measures for Labeling Artificial Intelligence-Generated Content" that took effect in 2025. Labels include visible markers and metadata/watermarks that identify text, images, audio, video and other synthetic content as AI-generated. What platforms are doing WeChat: Requires users to proactively label AI-generated content and forbids removing or tampering with labels. It also bans using AI to spread false information or illegal content. Douyin: Urges users to label AI material and can use metadata to trace content origins. Weibo: Added an option for users to report "unlabelled AI content." Regulatory background The measures were jointly issued by four…

Best Noise-Canceling Earbuds for 2025 — Picks, Buying Guide & Links Whether you commute, work in a busy café, or just need quiet, the right noise-canceling earbuds can help you focus on music, podcasts, or peace. Below are 7 top picks for 2025, concise notes, Amazon affiliate search links (US) and official product pages. Top Picks (2025) Technics EAH-AZ100 — Best overall ANC and warm sound. Amazon: Technics EAH-AZ100 on Amazon Official: Technics earbuds page Sony WF-1000XM5 — Premium ANC, foam tips for great isolation. Amazon: Sony WF-1000XM5 on Amazon Official: Sony WF-1000XM5 official Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Gen) USB-C — Best in Apple ecosystem with adaptive ANC and spatial audio. Amazon: AirPods Pro 2 (USB-C) on Amazon Official: Apple AirPods Pro Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II — Industry-leading noise cancellation…

Apple drops MLS Season Pass to $25 (Apple TV+) / $29 (others) for the rest of 2025 Apple has discounted the MLS Season Pass for the remainder of the 2025 MLS season. Apple TV+ subscribers can buy the pass for $25; non-subscribers can get it for $29. The pass gives access to live matches, on-demand replays and playoff coverage. Key details Price: $25 (Apple TV+ subscribers) / $29 (others) for the rest of 2025; regular annual price typically renews at $99 unless canceled. Season timeline: Teams have roughly 5–9 regular-season games left; MLS Cup final is scheduled for December 6, 2025. Notable players to watch: Lionel Messi (Inter Miami), Son Heung-min (LAFC), Thomas Müller (Vancouver Whitecaps). Where to get it Purchase and details are available via the Apple TV app…