Although the Amazon Spring Sale doesn't start in earnest until next week, there are a bunch of early deals to be had. Among them is an offer that sees Google's Pixel Buds Pro 2 drop to a record low price. The earbuds are currently $179, which is $50 (or 22 percent) off. The Pixel Buds Pro 2 are our pick for the best wireless earbuds for Google phones. For one thing, they fit more comfortably and securely after a redesign made them smaller than the Pixel Buds Pro. Improvements to audio quality helped the Pixel Buds Pro 2 obtain a score of 88 in our review. Revisions to the acoustics and drivers as well as the inclusion of a Tensor chip to take care of active noise cancellation (ANC) and audio signal processing help the earbuds deliver ample, punchy bass, as well as full mids and crisp highs. The Pixel Buds Pro 2 offer up to eight hours of use on a single charge with ANC enabled. When you factor in the charging case, you'll get up to 30 hours of total listening time when ANC is on. The earbuds have an IP54 rating, indicating that they're protected from dust and water splashes. In terms of features, the earbuds include hands-free access to the Gemini voice assistant. Spatial audio is available, albeit only for certain video streaming apps for now. The Pixel Buds Pro 2 offer automatic switching between devices that are linked to your Google account. Other features include conversation detection, a hearing wellness tool and Find My Device.This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/deals/googles-pixel-buds-pro-2-drop-to-a-record-low-price-for-the-amazon-spring-sale-152844540.html?src=rss

Qualcomm has announced a new lineup of Snapdragon G series processors for gaming handhelds.

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EU regulators are taking steps to rein in Google and Apple on antitrust charges, even as U.S. President Donald Trump threatens to hit the bloc with tariffs.

Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse said Wednesday that the SEC is no longer pursuing its appeal in the case against the payments company.

On a gray March afternoon at the Port of Los Angeles, the largest in the U.S., powerful electric top-handlers whir, beep, and grind as they motor back and forth, grabbing trailers from truck beds and stacking them as they move on or off the mighty container ships that ferry goods across the Pacific. Some of the ships, rather than burning diesel to sustain operations as theysit in harbor, plug into electricity instead.The shift to electricity is part of efforts to clean up the air around Americas ports, which have long struggled with pollution that chokes nearby neighborhoods and jeopardizes the health of people living there. Thelandmark climate lawchampioned by former President Joe Biden earmarked $3 billion to boost those efforts.Some of the people who live near U.S. hubs now worry that President Donald Trumps administration could seek to cancel or claw back some of that money.Our area is disproportionately affected by pollution directly related to the ports activity, said Theral Golden, whos lived in the West Long Beach area for more than 50 years. He pointed to the rivers of trucks moving back and forth on nearby highways and overpasses. Its all part of the same goods movement effort, and it has to be cleaned up.The Biden money aims to slash three million metric tons of carbon pollution across 55 ports in more than two dozen states, through cleaner equipment and vehicles, plus infrastructure and community engagement resources.Some ports say they have already spenthundreds of millionsto replace older, dirtier equipment. Members of the American Association of Port Authorities, representing more than 130 public port authorities in the U.S. and beyond, are planning at least $50 billion more of decarbonization projects. Many are easy: for example, drayage truckswhich drive short distances between ports and nearby warehousesare good candidates for electrification since they dont have to go far between charges.The Biden money wasnt enough to completely solve the problemproject requests alone topped $8 billion, per the Environmental Protection Agencybut it was a substantial investment that many experts, including Sue Gander, a director at the research nonprofit World Resources Institute, said would have a real impact. They also said it was the biggest outlay of federal funding theyd seen toward the problem.But Trump, from his first day back in the White House, hasattacked much of his predecessors climate policiesin the name ofenergy dominance. Hes sought to roll backclean energy, air, waterandenvironmental justice policiesand frozen federal funding, disruptingcommunity organizations and groupsplanning on the funds for everything from new solar projects to electric school buses to other programs.EPA spokesperson Shayla Powell said the agency has worked to enable payment accounts for infrastructure law and Inflation Reduction Act grant recipients, so funding is now accessible.While one port said the program was set to be active, others were waiting for the federal grant funding review process to be completed or were monitoring the situation.Decades of pollutionThe nations300 public and privateshipping ports have been centers of pollution for decades.There, the goods Americans wantfrom cars to building materials to orange juiceare moved by mostly diesel-fueled cranes, trucks, and locomotives that emitplanet-warming carbon dioxide and cancerous toxinsthat contribute to heart disease, asthma, and shorter life spans. In addition to thousands of longshoremen, truckers, and other workers, port operations affect some31 million Americansliving nearby, according to the EPA, often in largely Black, Latino, and low-income communities.Some ports have managed to get a little cleaner through state regulation, diesel pollution reduction efforts, international maritime requirements to cut emissions, and private investment. In voluntary emissions reporting, hubs including the Ports ofLos Angeles,Long Beach,andNew York and New Jerseysay some aspects of their operations have significantly improved over the past two decades.But by many of the ports own accounts, they are still releasing tons of sulfur oxides, particulate matters, nitrogen oxides, and more.Certain emissions have grown.Independent groups confirm this. The South Coast Air Quality Management Districta regulatory agency for parts of the Los Angeles regionsaid that while San Pedro emissions have dropped with more reduction efforts, that pace has slowed. The portsstill contribute significantly to local emissions.Communities nearby are still going to be vulnerable, said Houston resident Erandi Trevio, cofounder of outreach group the Races Collab Project. Local advocates and frontline groups like hers think Trumpsattack on pollution regulationwill harm further efforts.Trevio takes several medications and uses an inhaler to manage fatigue, stomachaches, headaches, and body pain that she blames on pollution from the Port of Houston. The port itself said pollutants dropped from 2013 to 2019, but some emissions from more vessel activityincreased. Houston itself has beenflaggedby the American Lung Association as one of Americas dirtiest cities based on ozone and year-round particle pollution, though the ALA didnt detail the sources of pollution.Ed Avol, a University of Southern California professor emeritus in clinical medicine, said the motivation to clean up air pollution to protect human and environmental health is clear. But the whipsaw back-and-forth of the current administrations decision-making process makes it hard to move forward, he said.In the previous administration, billions of dollars were provided to work towards zero air emissions, he said. In the current Trump administration, the clear intent seems to be to move away from electrification. And that will mean for the millions of people that live around the ports and downwind of the ports, poor air quality, more health effects.Efforts with mixed resultsDespite being major contributors toU.S. economic activity, ports say they are financially stretched by pressure to automate operations and by contentious labor issues.And moving to electric equipment or vehicles might not be the best option, said ports association government relations director Ian Gansler. Electric equipment is more expensive than diesel-fueled, ports might need more of it due to charging time requirements and it might take up more room in a port.Meanwhile, upgrading electrical service at a port could cost more than $20 million per berth, and some ports have dozens of berths. Ports, too, have to work with utilities to make sure they have enough power.All this comes as imports have grown. Freight activity could rise50% by 2050. according to the U.S. Department of Transportation.Meanwhile, multiple agencies govern, operate in and regulate ports, said Fern Uennatornwaranggoon, climate campaign director for ports at environmental organization Pacific Environment, making it difficult to track how many pieces of equipment are still diesel, how many pieces have been transitioned, how many more we need to go.___The Associated Press climate and environmental coverage receives financial support from multiple private foundations. AP is solely responsible for all content. Find APsstandardsfor working with philanthropies, a list of supporters and funded coverage areas atAP.org.Alexa St. John, Associated Press climate reporter

Billionaire businessman, investor, former shark, and Dallas Mavericks owner Mark Cuban knows a bit about running a company and leading employees. The serial entrepreneur has founded and invested in successful businesses from food brands to tech startups and pretty much everything in between.Cuban often shares his insights about sweat equity and staying involved in running ones own business. Here are three of the most actionable pearls of leadership wisdom from Mark Cubanand how you can put these quotes into action in your own leadership.1. Embrace Sweat EquitySweat equity is the most valuable equity there is.Put simply, sweat equity is the value you create through your own hard work. This might be the unpaid work you put into researching your competitors products, perfecting your public-speaking skills, getting to know your customers, or recruiting the best employees for your company.Your time and your effort dont cost you anything, and pouring both into your work can make all the difference.As a leader, you should also encourage your employees to contribute their sweat equity. This doesnt mean forcing unpaid overtime, of course. According to Cuban, the key to leadership is knowing your employees and finding out how their goals and the businesss goals align.Maybe you have an employee who wants to get into videography and your companys marketing could benefit from some custom videos. Perhaps someone wants to move into management in the future, and theres a cross-functional project they could manage.Mark Cuban isnt the only successful leader who embraces the idea of sweat equity. Other business leaders who have spoken on the value of hard work are:Warren Buffett, CEO and chairperson of Berkshire Hathaway (akathe Oracle of Omaha)Dan Graham, cofounder and CEO of BuildASign.comJustin Gray, founder and CEO of five successful companies2. Be the Expert in Your FieldKnow your business and industry better than anyone else in the world.There are countless ways to boost your knowledge through effort rather than financial investment, making learning one of the most valuable ways to build sweat equity.The more you know about your business and industry, the more you, as a leader, will be ready for any problem or decision that comes your way. What Ive learned is that if you really want to be successful at something, youll find that you put the time in, Cuban said at the 2017 Inc. 5000 Conference. You wont just ask somebody if its a good idea, youll go figure out if its a good idea.You can work continuous learning into your life by:Keeping a running list of any new ideas or concepts you come across so you know which topics you want to learnBreaking new topics down into subtopics that you can learn in small bursts when you have the timeScheduling regular learning timewhether its a scheduled course, a set hour a day, or a few hours each weekendContinuous learning is also an important practice for staying ahead of industry trends. You could:Follow others in your industry on social media and pay attention to new topicsAttend industry events and network regularlyUse frequent customer and employee surveysInvite your employees to share new trends they come across3. Lead with Passion and Purpose Love what you do or dont do it.If youre truly passionate about your work, putting in the sweat equity will be a lot easier. If youre bored every time you read about a new development in your fieldits not the field for you, and its going to be hard to put in the work you need to really thrive.Think about your values. What truly drives you? Are you living out those values in your work? For example, if you value helping others, are you consistently soliciting customer and employee feedback and acting on it? If you value recognition, are you going after awards in your field?Not everyone will be as excited about your passions as you are, of course, but passionate leaders can inspire employees. Speak openly with your employees about your vision and youre more likely to get their buy-in. Check in with those you lead to find out where their passions lie and see how they align with your goals.Leadership is having a vision, Cuban said on The Draymond Green Show. Whats my goal? Part two is getting to know the people who are working with me, and what their goals are. And then the real definition of leadership is making those two merge.Conclusion: The Cuban Formula for SuccessCubans advice can be boiled down to three key principles:Hard workConstant learningPassionLiving out these principles will not only make you more effective at your job, but inspire your employees to do the sameas long as you give them the tools and support they need.

When Apple's Smart Folio for iPad came out, it seemed pretty nifty. The tri-fold cover attached magnetically and offered a couple of different viewing positions. However, tech accessories brand MOFT ("Mobile Office For Travelers") has designed this Dynamic Folio, which makes Apple's offering look positively primitive. MOFT's origami-based design elevates the tablet to a better height for reading, viewing or drawing.It can also be hooked on your thigh for stability and even offers a place to perch a phone, if you're drawing from reference material. In short, it offers a lot more versatilityand it's essentially the same thing as the Smart Folio, just with angled creases rather than straight ones. It's a tiny design change with an outsized impact. As humble as this product is, it ought be studied in design schools, as an example of doing a lot with a little.The MOFT Dynamic Folio has been successfully Kickstarted, with 20 days left to go at press time. Prices start at $39, and they expect to ship in May.

PROS: Improved durability with Gorilla Glass 7i and IP68/69 rating Holistic approach to AI 50MP front camera with autofocus Privacy-respecting red LED when using the camerasCONS: No telephoto camera, mediocre ultra-wide camera "Fantasy Art Texture" looks like oily fingerprint smudges Some downgrades compared to previous-genRATINGS:AESTHETICSERGONOMICSPERFORMANCESUSTAINABILITY / REPAIRABILITYVALUE FOR MONEYEDITOR'S QUOTE:The TECNO CAMON 40 Pro 5G combines decent performance, a memorable design, and an accessible price tag to bring meaningful AI experiences to more people.The smartphone landscape has witnessed a significant transformation in recent years, with artificial intelligence becoming a central focus of marketing campaigns across all price segments. AI features, once exclusive to premium devices, have gradually trickled down to more affordable options, promising enhanced capabilities for everyday users. This democratization of technology is precisely what the TECNO CAMON 40 Pro 5G aims to achieve with its latest offering.TECNO has positioned the CAMON 40 Pro 5G as an AI-powered smartphone that brings advanced features to a wider audience without the premium price tag. The device boasts an impressive array of AI capabilities that go beyond just photography and content creation, areas where most have been too focused on. But does this mid-range contender deliver on its promises, or has TECNO cut too many corners to achieve its price point? Lets dive deep into what makes this device tick.Designer: TECNOAestheticsThe TECNO CAMON 40 Pro 5G makes a bold statement with its distinctive design language that aims to stand out in an increasingly homogeneous smartphone market. The device features a clean, modern aesthetic highlighted by an independent triple camera setup reminiscent of higher-end devices like the Samsung Galaxy S25 series. What sets it apart, however, is the elegantly raised area surrounding the camera modules that tapers gracefully toward the bottom of the phones rear panel, inspired by the graceful curves of swan necks.The CAMON 40 Pro 5G embraces curved edges on both its front glass and plastic back panel, a design choice that some might consider slightly dated in todays market where flat edges have made a comeback. However, these gentle curves contribute to the phones premium feel, creating an illusion of thinness while providing a more comfortable grip. The curvature also creates interesting light reflections that enhance the devices visual appeal when placed on a surface.While the back panel features a sophisticated matte finish with what TECNO calls a Fantasy Art Texture, the execution falls slightly short of expectations. The texture, intended to create visual interest, unfortunately, resembles fingerprint smudges under certain lighting conditions, detracting from the premium aesthetic the company aimed to achieve. This minor design misstep is noticeable primarily when examining the device closely, but it doesnt significantly diminish the overall attractive appearance of the smartphone.ErgonomicsThe TECNO CAMON 40 Pro 5G utilizes a plastic frame construction that contributes to its surprisingly lightweight when held. This lightness might initially raise questions about durability, as many consumers associate heft with quality. However, the device maintains a solid, substantial feel despite its weight, striking a balance between comfort and perceived build quality that should satisfy most users in this price segment.The curved front and back panels of the CAMON 40 Pro 5G contribute significantly to its ergonomic profile. These gentle curves allow the device to nestle comfortably in the palm, reducing strain during extended usage sessions. The smooth transitions between the frame and panels eliminate sharp edges that might dig into the hand, making the phone feel more natural to hold for longer periods compared to devices with more angular designs.The button placement on the right side of the frame provides easy access to the power and volume controls without requiring uncomfortable hand adjustments. TECNO has also introduced a dedicated One-Tap FlashSnap button that can be customized for various functions, most notably quick camera access. This simple addition enhances the user experience by providing immediate access to frequently used features without navigating through menus or unlocking the device.PerformanceThe TECNO CAMON 40 Pro 5G is powered by a MediaTek Dimensity 7300 processor, positioning it firmly in the mid-range segment of the smartphone market. Compared to its predecessor, the CAMON 30 Pro 5G, this represents a slight downgrade in raw processing power, which might disappoint those expecting year-over-year improvements. The device comes with either 8GB or 12GB of RAM, providing adequate multitasking capabilities for most users, though not exceptional by current standards.Daily performance on the CAMON 40 Pro 5G is generally smooth for routine tasks like social media browsing, messaging, and media consumption. The phone handles these activities without noticeable lag or stuttering. However, more demanding applications and games may cause occasional frame drops or longer loading times compared to higher-end devices. These are all definitely within the expectations of a mid-range device but should still satisfy the needs of most users.The display is a standout feature, offering a 6.78-inch 144Hz AMOLED panel that delivers vibrant colors and smooth scrolling. The high refresh rate provides a premium feel when navigating the interface, though the curved edges of the screen can sometimes cause slight content distortion at the periphery. This might be particularly noticeable when watching videos or playing games that utilize the full screen area, potentially detracting from the immersive experience the large display otherwise provides.Despite sporting what appears to be a triple-camera setup, the CAMON 40 Pro 5G effectively offers just two functional cameras: a 50MP Sony LYT-700C Ultra Night main camera and an 8MP ultra-wide shooter. This represents a significant downgrade from the previous generations 50MP ultra-wide camera, and the absence of even a basic macro lens is somewhat disappointing, let alone not having a telephoto shooter. The front-facing camera maintains a respectable 50MP resolution and includes autofocus capability, a feature still relatively uncommon for selfie cameras, especially on this tier.Camera performance from the main 50MP sensor is quite impressive for a mid-range device. Photos exhibit good clarity, detail, and sharpness across various lighting conditions. Color reproduction tends toward natural tones rather than the oversaturated look common in smartphones from this region, which photography enthusiasts might appreciate. The ultra-wide camera delivers acceptable results in good lighting but falls short of expectations for a 2025 release, even within the mid-range segment.The CAMON 40 series places artificial intelligence at the forefront of its user experience, beginning with the initial setup process where AI-assisted interactions guide new users. TECNO has created a centralized hub for all AI features, making them easily discoverable and accessible, which addresses a common pain point where useful capabilities often remain hidden within complex menu structures on other devices.Photography benefits significantly from the AI integration, with features like Smart Scene Detection automatically optimizing camera settings based on what youre photographing. The system can identify various scenarios from landscapes to food photography, adjusting parameters like contrast, saturation, and sharpness to produce more appealing images without requiring manual adjustments. This democratizes photography skills, allowing less experienced users to capture better photos.Beyond imaging capabilities, the CAMON 40 Pro 5G incorporates AI into everyday communication tools. The device offers AI-powered call summarization, which can generate text summaries of important conversations, saving users from having to take notes manually. Automatic call answering with AI assistance helps manage incoming calls when youre unable to answer personally, while real-time translation features break down language barriers during international communications or when consuming foreign content.TECNOs Ella AI assistant represents one of the more comprehensive implementations of artificial intelligence on the device. This virtual assistant provides hands-free interaction for common tasks and introduces a one-tap screen query feature that can identify objects, text, or information displayed on the screen. For instance, users can take a photo with a phone number or a webpage in it and immediately initiate a call, or identify products for potential purchase without switching between multiple apps.The AI writing assistant integrated into the system helps users craft messages, emails, and documents with suggested completions and style adjustments. This feature proves particularly useful for non-native English speakers or those who struggle with written communication, effectively raising the baseline quality of user-generated content. While not replacing dedicated writing applications, the convenience of having these capabilities built directly into the system enhances productivity.SustainabilityTECNOs approach to sustainability with the CAMON 40 Pro 5G reveals both challenges and opportunities in the mid-range smartphone segment. The device still relies heavily on plastic components and non-sustainable materials in its construction, reflecting industry-wide difficulties in balancing affordability with environmental responsibility. However, TECNO attempts to offset these material choices by focusing on durability and longevity, recognizing that extending a devices usable lifespan represents a significant environmental benefit.The CAMON 40 Pro 5G incorporates Corning Gorilla Glass 7i protection for the display, a premium feature not commonly found in this price segment. This enhanced glass technology provides superior resistance to drops and scratches, potentially extending the usable life of the device by preventing common forms of damage that lead to premature replacement. The inclusion of this feature demonstrates TECNOs understanding that sustainability isnt solely about materials but also about creating products that remain functional for longer periods.Perhaps most impressive is the devices IP68/69 rating for dust and water resistance, a feature rarely seen in mid-range smartphones. This high level of environmental protection safeguards the internal components from common hazards like rain, spills, and dust ingress that often lead to device failure. By protecting against these everyday threats, TECNO increases the likelihood that users will keep their devices for longer periods before upgrading, reducing electronic waste.ValueWith its Pro designation and stylish design, its all too easy to forget that the TECNO CAMON 40 Pro 5G is really a mid-range phone at heart. In several aspects, including the ultra-wide camera and charging speeds, the CAMON 40 Pro 5G actually represents a downgrade from the previous generation. The larger 5,200 mAh battery is partially offset with a slower 45W charging speed, a curious step backward in an era where fast charging has become increasingly important to consumers. The larger battery does provide excellent endurance, easily lasting through a full day of moderate to heavy use before requiring a recharge.Positioning the CAMON 40 Pro 5G within TECNOs own 2025 lineup is even more difficult. The CAMON 40 Premiere 5G offers significantly better specifications while maintaining a relatively affordable price point, potentially making it a more attractive option for those willing to spend slightly more. Conversely, the standard CAMON 40 Pro without 5G connectivity provides many of the same features at a lower price point for users who dont require next-generation network capabilities.Despite these considerations, the CAMON 40 Pro 5G does deliver solid value in specific areas that matter to many consumers. The excellent main camera, high-quality display, comprehensive AI features, and impressive water resistance collectively create a compelling package for users prioritizing these aspects. The device successfully democratizes certain premium features, making them accessible at a more approachable price point than flagship alternatives from more established brands.VerdictThe smartphone industry continues its rapid evolution, with artificial intelligence emerging as perhaps the most significant frontier for innovation and differentiation. As AI capabilities become increasingly sophisticated, access to these features has largely been restricted to premium devices with powerful hardware and correspondingly high price tags. This technological divide threatens to create a two-tier user experience where only those willing or able to pay premium prices can benefit from the latest advancements.The TECNO CAMON 40 Pro 5G represents an important step toward bridging this divide by bringing meaningful AI functionality to a more accessible price point, bringing advanced capabilities to a broader audience. It may not compete directly with flagship devices in raw performance, but it excels in providing access to technologies that enhance daily smartphone use for consumers with more modest budgets. In this respect, it achieves something genuinely valuable: making the benefits of technological progress more equitably available across different market segments.The post TECNO CAMON 40 Pro 5G Review: AI For All first appeared on Yanko Design.

Imagine reaching into your pocket for your wallet and finding a versatile tool that serves multiple purposes without adding bulk. The Gerber GDC Money Clip masterfully combines the functionality of a traditional money holder with the practicality of a utility knife, creating an essential accessory for those who value efficiency. This ingenious device has captured the attention of outdoor enthusiasts and everyday carry aficionados alike, offering a seamless blend of form and function in a surprisingly compact package.The beauty of the GDC Money Clip lies in its thoughtful design that addresses common everyday challenges. Rather than fumbling with a separate wallet and knife, users can streamline their pocket contents while maintaining quick access to both cash and a cutting tool. The sleek profile measures just 9.4 centimeters in length, making it an unobtrusive addition to your everyday carry setup without sacrificing functionality or creating uncomfortable bulges in your clothing.Designer: GerberCrafted with premium materials, this money clip showcases Gerbers commitment to quality and durability. The G10 front plate provides exceptional grip and resistance to environmental factors, while the titanium nitride-coated steel body ensures longevity even with daily use. These carefully selected components create a perfect balance between lightweight portability and rugged construction, allowing the clip to withstand the rigors of outdoor adventures and urban commutes alike.Perhaps the most impressive feature is the discreetly integrated 1.75-inch fine-edge stainless steel blade. Unlike typical pocket knives that require dedicated space, this cutting tool remains hidden within the clips frame until needed. The blade deployment mechanism offers quick access when facing packaging, cordage, or other cutting tasks, yet remains secure when carrying the clip in your pocket, providing peace of mind regarding both safety and convenience.Organization enthusiasts will appreciate the clips capacity to hold up to five credit cards alongside folded cash. The firm grip of the clip ensures your valuables remain secure whether youre hiking rugged trails or navigating busy city streets, providing confidence that your essentials wont slip away unnoticed. At the same time, the minimalist aesthetic of the GDC Money Clip appeals to those who prefer clean lines and purposeful design to make a subtle statement about the owners practical nature and appreciation for intelligent engineering.For handymen and crafters who frequently need cutting tools at a moments notice, this innovative clip offers immediate access without the bulk of traditional multi-tools. The small yet sharp blade handles precision tasks with ease, from opening packages to trimming materials, while the money clip function ensures youre never without payment methods. This dual-purpose design represents a practical solution for those who need reliable tools without sacrificing pocket space or comfort.The post Gerber GDC is a Stylish Money Clip That Hides a Secret Tool Inside its Slim Profile first appeared on Yanko Design.