WhatsApp introduces passkeys for encrypted backups — easier, biometric restores WhatsApp is rolling out passkeys for encrypted chat backups, making it simpler to secure and restore your saved messages, photos and voice notes. Passkeys let you use device biometrics (Face ID, fingerprint) or — on some devices — your screen‑lock code to access backups instead of a separate password or recovery key. The feature builds on WhatsApp’s end‑to‑end encrypted backup support, which launched in 2021, but aims to remove friction by eliminating the need to remember or store an extra encryption key. WhatsApp says the rollout begins today and will reach users globally over the coming weeks. How passkeys work Authentication: Use built‑in biometrics or compatible device screen‑lock codes to unlock encrypted backups during restores. No extra password: Passkeys remove…

Pinterest launches Pinterest Assistant — AI-powered, personalized visual search Pinterest is rolling out Pinterest Assistant, a new AI-powered feature that helps users discover clothes, furniture and other inspiration based on their saved Pins and boards. Designed for open-ended, discovery-style queries, the Assistant analyzes your activity and similar tastes across the platform to surface visuals tailored to you. The main interaction method is voice: tap the mic icon in the Pinterest app, speak a broad request (for example, “pillows that match my living room decor”), and the Assistant will use that audio prompt plus your saved content to find suitable results. Pinterest emphasizes the multimodal approach — combining voice and visual signals — to make browsing feel closer to real-world shopping. How Pinterest Assistant works Personalized results: The Assistant looks at…

iPad Pro M5 remains tightly sealed — repairs still very limited Following teardown reports, the iPad Pro M5 continues Apple’s trend of making its tablets difficult to repair. Unlike the recent MacBook Pro, whose bottom screws were straightforward to remove, the iPad Pro M5 uses no external case screws — meaning access requires careful display removal and dealing with adhesive‑sealed internals. For repairers, that typically translates to longer disassembly, higher risk of damage (especially to the display and cables), and greater reliance on manufacturer parts or authorized service. iFixit and others note that devices without visible screws push users toward paid repairs rather than DIY fixes. What this means for owners DIY repairs are harder and riskier — screen and internal components are often bonded and require heat or specialized…

Amazon winds down support for New World amid layoffs — Season 10/Nighthaven is final update; servers stay online through 2026 Amazon Games announced it will stop producing new content for New World: Aeternum. The recently launched Season 10 and the Nighthaven expansion will be the game’s final content release, though the studio says it will keep servers running through 2026 to give players time to continue their adventures. The decision comes amid widescale layoffs at Amazon and cuts within Amazon Games. The company said maintaining ongoing large‑scale content development for the MMO is no longer sustainable. As a goodwill gesture, the Nighthaven expansion is being made free to all players this month, and the game remains available for purchase and on PlayStation Plus (Extra and Premium) "until further notice." Key…

Just Dance Now comes to LG Smart TVs — play with the Magic Remote this December Ubisoft and LG are bringing Just Dance Now to the LG Gaming Portal for Smart TVs running webOS 22 or later. The title will land in December for users in the US and Europe and doesn’t require extra hardware — the LG Magic Remote acts as your motion controller. Originally a mobile app (2014) and later on Apple TV, Just Dance Now offers a large library of songs spanning decades. On LG TVs you’ll get a limited number of free songs each day, with the option to subscribe or buy song packs if you want more playtime. Key features No extra gear: use the LG Magic Remote for motion controls — no phone or…

Animal Crossing: New Horizons — Switch 2 edition lands Jan 15 (free Switch update for original Switch) Nintendo will release a Switch 2 edition of Animal Crossing: New Horizons on January 15, bringing upgraded visuals and new social features — and a free update for the original Switch version arrives the same day. The Switch 2 build adds higher fidelity graphics and several features that take advantage of the new hardware. The Switch 2 edition focuses on improved presentation and social play: 4K support in TV mode, mouse controls via Joy‑Con 2 to make decorating and design easier, and support for the Switch 2 camera so players can see each other’s faces above characters while playing. Online multiplayer expands to up to 12 players on Switch 2 (up from eight).…

Anker MagGo Power Bank (10K) — 37% off at $57 Amazon currently has the Anker MagGo Power Bank (10K) on sale for $57 — a 37% discount off its regular price. This model topped our list of the best power banks thanks to its reliable performance, Qi2 wireless charging support and handy features like a built-in kickstand and LED battery percentage display. The 10,000mAh capacity should provide roughly two full charges for a modern iPhone, and the USB‑C port offers wired charging if you prefer. The MagGo is optimized for iPhone wireless charging (Qi2); while it will charge some Android phones via cable, wireless charging may be limited on non‑Apple devices. Why this is a good buy Qi2 wireless charging: Fast, magnetic wireless charging compatible with recent iPhones. Portable capacity:…

Record-low deal: 13" MacBook Air (M4) drops to $799 — should you buy? Amazon is selling the 13‑inch MacBook Air with the M4 chip for a record‑low $799 right now. The laptop delivers snappy performance, impressive battery life of around 18 hours, and a bright P3 color display that reaches up to 500 nits — all in the lightweight MacBook Air chassis. If you need more screen real estate, the 15‑inch MacBook Air is also discounted — many color options are $200 off and the base model can be found for about $999. Why this deal is tempting Performance: The M4 provides very responsive everyday performance for web, productivity, media and light creative work. Battery life: Expect roughly 18 hours of mixed use — excellent for long workdays or travel.…

YouTube offers voluntary buyouts as part of AI‑focused reorganization YouTube CEO Neal Mohan told employees that the platform will offer voluntary buyouts as part of a reorganization to prioritize AI, though he said there will be no specific role eliminations tied to the new structure. The reorg groups products into three focused organizations: Viewer Products, Creator & Community Products, and Subscription Products. Viewer Products will concentrate on search & discovery, engagement, living‑room experiences and platform responsibility. Creator & Community Products will emphasize generative AI tools, Shorts, Live and creator support. Subscription Products will aim to grow Music, Premium and OTT offerings like YouTube TV. Key details YouTube is offering a voluntary exit program — employees can choose to take a buyout, but Mohan said there are not specific role cuts…

Carlinkit Mini Ultra 3: discreet Wireless CarPlay adapter lands in Germany Carlinkit has introduced the Mini Ultra 3, a new compact adapter designed to enable Wireless CarPlay. To mark its German launch the device is temporarily available for €39.99 (regular price €65.99). To claim the promotional price you need to activate the discount coupon on the product page. The Mini Ultra 3 is positioned as a low-profile solution for drivers who want Wireless CarPlay without replacing their car’s head unit. While exact feature details weren’t fully listed in the announcement, adapters like this typically plug into a vehicle’s USB port and bridge a wired CarPlay connection to a wireless one. What to check before buying Compatibility: Verify your car’s head unit supports CarPlay via USB and confirm compatibility with the…