A new report says that Microsoft has cancelled yet more data center projects worth billions of dollars.

A Hyundai Ioniq 5 owner recently clocked up 360,000 miles on the original battery... but it isn't the only hyper-mileage EV.

The combined entity would aim to secure American access to mature chips amid potential risks from China competition and tensions between China and Taiwan.

After debuting to the public for the first time this morning, stock for the cable news firm Newsmax shot up by nearly 500%.Last Friday, Newsmax announced that it had successfully closed its initial public offering at $75 million, selling 7.5 million shares for $10 each. The stock began trading on the New York Stock Exchange under the ticker NMAX this morning. As of this writing, shares are up by 494.9%, trading at a whopping $59.49 apiece. The spike has been so intense that trading halted for volatility five times in the first 30 minutes after market opening, Bloomberg reports.Newsmax, a conservative news company with the tagline Real News for Real People, has built its audience through a combination of cable news shows, podcasts, and online live streams. That last offeringwhich doesnt require users to opt into a full cable bundleis the main factor that differentiates Newsmax from its primary competitor, Fox News.According to data from the audience measurement firm Nielsen, only three cable networks averaged more than one million viewers in primetime in 2024 (Fox, ESPN, and MSNBC) compared to 19 networks which surpassed that viewership marker back in 2014. Newsmax did see a sizable viewership bump of 31% in 2024 compared to 2023, likely attributable to the presidential election.As cable declines, many users are turning away from pay TV to streamingmeaning Newsmaxs business model may be primed for the current shift in viewing habits. Last July, streaming accounted for a record-breaking 41.4% of all TV usage in the U.S., according to Nielsen. Cable came in as a distant second with 26.7%, while broadcast TV accounted for 20.3%.In an interview with CNBC on Newsmaxs public debut this morning, Ruddy said that he believes the cable news ecosystem is going down, but that Newsmaxs live sports and live news will allow it to remain a vibrant business.I think [legacy media] is dying, Ruddy said. Even though were on a legacy platform with cable, we also have an incredible streaming channel, we have a plus service, were doing amazing things on podcast now. Our view at Newsmax is, dont be legacy media where you fall in a rut; do all platforms.As of midday Monday, Newsmax stock was trading at a price of about $50 apiece.

Less than a month after the mortgage giant Rocket Companies moved to absorb the real estate platform Redfin, the company has already struck another major deal: This morning, Rocket Companies (NYSE: RKT) announced it has reached an agreement to acquire its home loan competitor, Mr. Cooper Group Inc. (NASDAQ: COOP), in an all-stock transaction valued at $9.4 billion.According to a press release, the proposed acquisition will expand Rocket Companies servicing portfolio to $2.1 trillion in unpaid principal balance across 10 millions clientsmeaning, by combining forces with Mr. Cooper and integrating its seven million clients, Rocket Companies will represent one in six mortgages across the U.S. The transaction has been unanimously approved by both Rocket Companies and Mr. Coopers Board of Directors, and is predicted to close in the fourth quarter of 2025 pending shareholder and regulatory approvals.News of the potential deal has given Mr. Cooper shares a sizable boost. This morning, the companys stock jumped nearly 25% in premarket trading, and as of this writing, its up more than 16%. Meanwhile, Rocket Companies shares have taken a hit: The stock is now down by nearly 8%.Rocket Companies mission to become a one-stop-shopThe Mr. Cooper deal is the next step in Rocket Companies plan to become a giant one-stop-shop for homebuyers.Earlier this month, Rocket Companies (the parent company to subsidiaries including Rocket Money and Rocket Mortgage) moved to acquire Redfin in another all-stock transaction valued at $1.75 billion. The deal was designed to incorporate Redfins rental listing and real estate agent ecosystem with Rocket Companiesessentially making it easier for new homebuyers to search for a home, connect with a real estate agent, and secure a mortgage all under one corporate roof.Incorporating Mr. Cooper will allow Rocket Companies to expand its client base and data set as it works to become more of an all-in-one platform. Rocket Companies reported that it expects the acquisition to drive higher loan volume and lower client acquisition costs.Mr. Cooper has been on a journey to transform the homeownership experience, and we have built the most advanced servicing platform in the mortgage industry, Jay Bray, Mr. Cooper Group Chairman and CEO, said in a press release. Bray is set to become president and CEO of Rocket Mortgage. By combining Mr. Cooper and Rocket, we will form the strongest mortgage company in the industry, offering an end-to-end homeownership experience backed by leading technology and grounded in customer care, he added.

These days, even an economy car can reach 100 mph. Sports cars can double that. Despite having the power to do so, few drivers zoom around at such speeds, understanding that the potential consequencesa speeding ticket, license revocation or a deadly accidentcan be bad.However, people have demonstrated no such self-control with smartphones. Study after study cite the negative effects of too much screentime. Live concerts, school recitals and sporting events are filled with people who are there in person, yet fastidiously recording the moments rather than experiencing them directly. During idle moments at home, doomscrolling, social-media-driven envy and toxic comment wars persist.Is this a design problem, or a human nature problem? Designers Joe Hollier and Kaiwei Tang reckon it's a design problem. The duo, who met at a Google design incubator, were disturbed at how the incubator cited central design goals of apps to be "stickiness" and "retention.""One of the biggest markers of success was retention," Hollier said in an interview with Technical.ly. "Not your revenue, but how many hours a day your users were plugged into it. The idea being that if it was sticky enough you could develop a whole slew of business around it. We felt products were being built to get people addicted less than trying to solve some human need."The pair subsequently designed the Light Phone, a feature-limited phone with a Modernist, minimalist design. Their 2015 Kickstarter to launch it was successful; ten years later, the phone is on its third generation. Over the Light Phone's evolution, Hollier and Tang had to decideby using their own judgment and sifting through user feedback--which features to offer and which to ditch. Whereas the original Light Phone allowed little more than calling and texting, the Light Phone III now features a camera, navigation, music and podcast playback, alarms, notes, and an NFC chip. However, Hollier and Tang took a stand on other common features of smartphones. The Light Phone III notably has:- No social media access- No web browser- No third-party apps- No music streaming- No e-mail clients- No messaging apps beyond text messages- No calendar syncing- No task management apps- No document editing- No cloud-based storage access- No gamesIt seems a delicate line to tread, between useful and harmful features. Users might welcome the inability to access Instagram, yet rue the inability to call a Lyft. That aside, Hollier and Tang have marketed the phonesuccessfullyto those seeking a distraction-free lifestyle and an easier-to-maintain phone (the battery is user-replaceable). The Light Phone III isn't cheap; it's available for pre-order now for $600 and is expected to retail for $800. Which begs the question: Is it possible for a user to own a full-featured smartphone, and simply avoid using the features that bring negative consequences? Is self-control the responsibility of the user, or is it that app designers have immorally figured out how to hijack the brain in an unacceptable way? An Industrial Design professor of minea well-regarded and award-winning designer of the time--offloaded all responsibility to users. "If you design a car, someone will use it to rob a bank," was as far as his philosophy went. But that was over thirty years ago. Have the times changed and brought with them new responsibility for designers? What is your philosophy?

Some vehicles defy categorization entirely, transcending conventional transportation to become rolling sculptures that challenge our understanding of automotive design. The 1962 Excalibur RS Roadster stands as one such creation. This extraordinary machine, preparing to cross Mecums auction block on May 16, carries exceptional craftsmanship while embodying the culmination of a design legends vision.Photo: MecumBrooks Stevens shaped American industrial design for decades, his creative genius touching everything from household appliances to transportation icons. The rugged Jeep Wagoneer, the streamlined Studebaker Hawk, and the whimsical Oscar Mayer Wienermobile all bear his distinctive touch. Stevens possessed that rare ability to infuse everyday objects with personality while maintaining their functional integrity.Genesis of a Design IconThe Excalibur RS represents something far more personal in Stevens extensive portfolioa final automotive statement conceptualized in the early 1990s but destined to remain unrealized during his lifetime.Photo: MecumThough bearing a 1962 designation that connects it to Stevens earlier works, the Roadsters story stretches across decades, bridging classic design philosophy with modern execution. This temporal duality creates something that exists simultaneously in multiple eras, refusing easy classification while demanding appreciation on its own unique terms.The RS namesake honors Robert Shaw, Stevens longtime friend who undertook the monumental task of transforming concept sketches into tangible reality. Shaw completed the vehicle in 2006, working from the designers original vision while incorporating contemporary engineering solutions.This wasnt simply a restoration or recreation but the birth of something entirely new yet spiritually connected to Stevens design language. Where most posthumous projects might attempt to rigidly adhere to original concepts, Shaw understood that Stevens genius lay in his adaptability and forward-thinking approach.Engineering the ImpossibleThe foundation of any extraordinary automobile begins with its underlying structure, and the Excalibur RS demonstrates exceptional engineering beneath its dramatic skin. Chuck Rahn developed a tubular steel spaceframe chassis specifically for this project, creating a rigid platform that supports the cars theatrical bodywork while delivering sports car handling characteristics.Photo: MecumUnlike modified production platforms that often compromise a custom vehicles performance, this ground-up approach allowed for optimized weight distribution and structural integrity without design limitations.The spaceframe constructiona technique borrowed from racing applicationsprovides exceptional torsional rigidity while minimizing mass. Every mounting point, every suspension pickup, every structural member was placed with deliberate purpose.Photo: MecumThe chassis incorporates modern suspension geometry with adjustable components, allowing the cars handling characteristics to be fine-tuned to the owners preferences. This foundation represents the perfect marriage of old-school craftsmanship and contemporary engineering knowledge.Racing-derived solutions appear throughout the underpinnings. Pushrod suspension components, adjustable anti-roll bars, and precision-machined mounting points create a platform thats as technically sophisticated as it is visually impressive.Sculptural BodyworkPerhaps nothing defines the Excalibur RS more immediately than its hand-formed aluminum bodywork. In an age of computer-designed, machine-stamped panels, the Roadsters body represents countless hours of skilled artisanship.Photo: MecumEach curve and character line was painstakingly shaped by craftsmen working with traditional tools and techniques that have largely disappeared from modern automotive production. The body draws inspiration from Stevens earlier 1961 Excalibur Hawk Coupe but incorporates thoroughly modern elements that create a unique visual identity.Photo: MecumThe most theatrical of these features are undoubtedly the Lamborghini Murcilago-style scissor doors. When opened, they transform the cars silhouette entirely, creating a dramatic entrance and exit experience while emphasizing the vehicles exclusive nature.Photo: MecumThe front end takes substantial inspiration from the legendary Ford GT40, with its low-slung profile and aggressive stance suggesting performance capabilities that match its visual drama. A low-profile polycarbonate windshield completes the race-inspired aesthetic, offering minimal wind protection in service of the cars striking appearance.The bodys proportions defy conventional automotive design rules, with an exceptionally wide stance, dramatically flared fenders, and a cockpit that appears to be carved from the surrounding bodywork rather than placed atop it. These exaggerated dimensions create a presence that commands attention without resorting to gratuitous styling elements.Photo: MecumEvery curve serves both aesthetic and functional purposes, from directing airflow to emphasizing the cars ground-hugging stance. The power-operated hood and decklid add a touch of theatrical functionality, revealing the meticulously detailed engine bay and storage area with dramatic flair.Even the smallest detailsthe custom-fabricated light housings, the precisely shaped air intakes, the flush-mounted glasscontribute to the cohesive design language that makes the Excalibur RS so visually compelling.Performance HeartBeneath the sensuous bodywork beats the heart of a serious performance machine that ensures the Excalibur RS delivers driving thrills to match its visual drama. The Roadster is powered by a 5.7-liter GM V8 crate engine equipped with Edelbrock throttle-body fuel injectiona combination that delivers approximately 500 horsepower while maintaining exceptional reliability.Photo: MecumThis powerplant was chosen for its character, providing the deep, mechanical rumble that perfectly complements the cars visceral design. The engine installation itself is a work of art, with carefully routed hoses, polished components, and custom brackets creating an underhood presentation as impressive as the exterior.Photo: MecumPower flows to the rear wheels through a GM 700R4 automatic transmission, selected for its robust construction and smooth power delivery. While purists might prefer a manual gearbox, this choice reflects the cars dual nature as both showpiece and functional vehicle, allowing the driver to focus on the experience rather than managing a heavy clutch in traffic or at events.The drivetrain represents a pragmatic approach to the cars mechanical systems, using proven components to ensure the one-off creation would be as drivable as it is displayable. This philosophycombining bespoke design with reliable mechanical componentsruns throughout the entire vehicle, creating a machine thats both aesthetically striking and genuinely usable.Photo: MecumThe Excaliburs performance credentials extend well beyond its powertrain. Wilwood disc brakes provide fade-resistant stopping power, a necessity given the cars performance potential. Power-assisted rack-and-pinion steering delivers precise control with appropriate feedback, striking the perfect balance between effort and communication.Perhaps most intriguing is the inclusion of a Halibrand quick-change rear axlea component more commonly found on race cars that allows for gearing adjustments to suit different driving conditions without major disassembly. This feature underscores the attention to detail that permeates every aspect of the Roadsters construction.Artistry in Color and DetailThe Excaliburs exterior finish is a carefully considered element of its design that enhances its dramatic form. The car wears Mercedes-Benz Mystic Blue Metallic paint, a choice that simultaneously pays homage to the 1928 Mercedes-Benz SSK while also reflecting Stevens traditional red, white, and blue color schemes that appeared throughout his career.Photo: MecumThis deep blue is accented with patriotic red and white details that create a cohesive visual statement without overwhelming the bodys sculptural qualities. The combination connects the Excalibur RS to automotive history while establishing its own distinct identity.The paints depth and metallic quality highlight the complex curves of the hand-formed bodywork, changing character as light moves across the surface. Unlike modern production vehicles with their often-flat color applications, the Excaliburs finish has a hand-applied quality that enhances its bespoke nature.Even the smallest painted detailsthe pinstriping, the accent colors, the subtle variations in finishreveal the human touch that defines truly special automobiles. Each viewing angle reveals new details, rewarding prolonged examination and appreciation.Crafted Interior ExperienceStep inside the Excalibur RS, and youre greeted by an interior that balances vintage inspiration with modern execution. Engine-turned aluminum panelsa detail borrowed from classic racing machinesprovide a textural contrast to the leather-trimmed surfaces.Photo: MecumThe fixed bucket seats offer a perfect blend of support and comfort, while the removable VIP steering wheel adds both exclusivity and security. The dashboard layout prioritizes the driver experience, with clear instrumentation and essential controls positioned for intuitive operation.Photo: MecumFiberglass moldings trimmed in leather create a cohesive interior environment that complements the exterior design language. This cabin focuses on the tactile quality of materials and the purposeful arrangement of componentsa space designed for the serious business of driving.Photo: MecumEvery surface within the cockpit has been considered for its appearance and how it interacts with the occupants. The seat bolsters provide lateral support during spirited driving without impeding entry and exit. The pedals are perfectly positioned for heel-and-toe operation. The shifter falls naturally to hand.Photo: MecumThese ergonomic considerations transform what could have been just a show car into a genuine drivers machine. Despite its show-stopping appearance, the Excalibur RS was built to be driven and enjoyed, not merely displayed.A Legacy in MetalThe Excalibur RS Roadster exists at a fascinating intersection of automotive history. While it bears a 1962 designation, it represents a modern interpretation of mid-century design principles. Stevens original Excalibur vehicles reimagined 1920s Mercedes-Benz SSK styling for the 1960s market, while the RS Roadster filters this design language through a contemporary lens.Photo: MecumWhat makes this car significant is its status as Brooks Stevens final automotive projecta tribute to his design philosophy and an evolution of his aesthetic principles. The May 16 Mecum auction marks the first public sale opportunity for this vehicle, whose construction costs exceeded $1 million.Photo: MecumFor the right collector, this represents an opportunity to acquire a piece of automotive design history. The Excalibur RS Roadster challenges our expectations of what a car can bedrawing from history while remaining thoroughly original. As this unique creation finds a new home, its significance as the final chapter in Brooks Stevens automotive legacy is already firmly established in design history.The post Inside the 1962 Excalibur RS Roadster: A Final Vision Realized first appeared on Yanko Design.

Vinyl records evoke nostalgia and hold memories of the past, and in the digital age, they have experienced a resurgence, becoming a popular medium for music lovers, especially audiophiles. As a result, vinyl records are making a strong comeback, with audiophiles now enjoying the unique experience of listening to vinyl records on either turntables or record players. The evolution of recorded music began with the gramophone in the 1870s, followed by the introduction of the first electric record player in 1925. Since then, record players and turntables have evolved to allow you to play vinyl records that cater to different listening preferences and styles. Although turntables and record players are distinct devices, they serve the same purpose of playing vinyl records, but their setup and sound quality differ and affect the listening experience.TurntableA turntable is a sleek, minimalist device that is designed to spin vinyl records at the correct speed while the stylus (or needle) reads the grooves and produces sound vibrations. However, it requires additional components, such as an amplifier and separate speakers, to produce sound. While a turntable is focused on accurately reading the vinyl for optimal sound reproduction, it also offers a tailored listening experience. Audiophiles prefer turntables for their high-quality, immersive audio and customization potential, as well as because they allow users to upgrade components to match their preferences and budget. On the downside, assembling a turntable can be a complex process.Theres a strong appreciation for classic retro style, and the Brad Retro Mk II perfectly captures this with its vibrant, retro-inspired design that combines nostalgic charm with modern functionality. This turntable features a boxy, analog look and a colorful personality with which it not only captures the charm of vintage record players but also meets the needs of todays audiophiles. Its belt-driven mechanism, three-speed settings, and compatibility with 7-12 vinyl records deliver authentic analog sound.The built-in 10W speakers allow one to enjoy music without the need for external speakers, while the option to connect via Bluetooth or a 3.5mm jack provides versatile option for louder listening. A new USB-C power port adds portability and allows one to play music anywhere while on the move. Therefore, the Brad Retro Mk II caters to a variety of tastes, it exudes playful vintage charm along with features like tactile controls and easy connectivity.For audiophiles seeking unmatched sound quality, Pro-Jects Signature 12.2 turntable can be the ideal choice as it offers advanced technology and exceptional craftsmanship. The turntable weighs 80 lbs and the turntable features a high-mass platter over 25 lbs alongside an anti-resonant MDF base made from stainless steel with a weight of 50 lbs. The platter spins on an inverted ceramic ball bearing with magnetic support, while over 100 precision CNC-machined components enhance stability and reduce external interference for exceptional sound reproduction.The Signature 12.2 delivers deep, immersive audio, revealing new sonic details even in familiar tracks. It features a 12-inch S-shaped aluminum tonearm with a 3-point pivot bearing and removable headshell for easy cartridge swaps. The turntable supports 33rpm and 45rpm speeds and it includes an electronic speed change option for precise adjustments. The hand-painted MDF plinth is coated with 10 layers and reinforced with steel pellets to reduce vibrations, and is complemented by a polished aluminum panel and a sleek piano-black finish.Record PlayerA record player features a compact, all-in-one design that integrates the amplifier and speakers into a single unit and offers a convenient, plug-and-play solution. The record player is perfect for casual listening but it does not provide the rich, high-quality sound that vinyl records can offer which makes it less suitable for audiophiles that seek deeper sound depth. Additionally, record players evoke nostalgia with their classic way of enjoying music which provides a user-friendly, hassle-free option that simplifies the vinyl listening experience. Its important to note that while all record players include a turntable, not all turntables are record players.The sleek design of record players extends beyond just playing vinyl as it offers a more refined and immersive experience. For instance, this record player design takes inspiration from architectural precision as it features an aluminum chassis with slats that are reminiscent of modern buildings. These slats add to the visual appeal and serve practical functions. One slat holds the tonearm when not in use to prevent accidents while the gaps between the slats cleverly conceal the controls.Unlike traditional buttons or sliders volume, speed, and power blend seamlessly into the design, as it offers a unique, hands-on way to engage with the machine. The anodized aluminum body gives the record player a distinctive industrial look that evokes the look of robot arms used in manufacturing. In a world of digital music consumption, this design reintroduces a physical and classic way to enjoy vinyl, and it makes the listening experience more memorable and immersive.A recent innovation is Oscar Olssons TT-90 System wall-mounted record player that blends classic analog with modern digital technology. Designed in black, orange, and white, it eliminates the bulky cabinet-style appearance of traditional players and offers a sleek, space-saving alternative. The vinyl appears to float on the wall, yet spins smoothly beneath the needle to deliver the iconic sound vinyl lovers cherish. The best part about this product is that it removes the bulk of conventional players and adds mobile control functionality.The TT-90 System can be operated via onboard controls or can be synced to a smartphone for added convenience. The stability concerns of the record player are addressed with rubber packs against the wall to minimize vibration, and a threaded knob securely holds the vinyl while it spins vertically. This record player is visually striking and highly functional with practical design elements for an enhanced vinyl listening experience that offers style and advanced features for audiophiles.Sustainable Innovation in DesignThe use of sustainable materials like bamboo, aluminum, and glass in record players and turntables is a growing trend as consumers and manufacturers prioritize eco-conscious, durable, and environmentally friendly designs. In this example, the Stir It Up Lux Bluetooth Turntable from the House of Marley combines style, sound quality, and sustainability. It is designed as a tribute to Bob Marley with a bamboo plinth, glass platter, and a replaceable Audio-Technica 95E elliptical stylus for enhanced audio performance. The lightweight aluminum headshell and tonearm improve tracking, while the bamboo and glass construction absorbs motor and bearing noise, delivering cleaner, more accurate sound.Additionally, the turntable pairs easily with speakers and other devices with Bluetooth connectivity. A unique feature is the double-sided cork slipmat that offers one side with simple black cork, and the other with vibrant, Marley-inspired graphics. With a focus on sustainability, it uses bamboo which is one of the fastest-growing plants alongside recyclable aluminum and glass. This turntable offers an eco-friendly yet high-quality listening experience with a touch of Marley-inspired charm.What is the difference between a Turntable and a Record Player?Design: A turntable cannot play records on its own but requires separate components which include a speaker and amplifier, while a record player is an all-in-one unit with built-in speakers and an amplifier.Target Audience: Turntables are ideal for serious music enthusiasts who prioritize high-quality sound, whereas record players are better suited for casual listeners who seek a simple, integrated solution for listening to music.Sound Quality: Record players usually offer lower sound quality than turntables and have fewer customization or upgrade options since they come with built-in amplifiers and speakers.Price: Turntables are typically more expensive than record players because of their superior sound quality which makes them a better investment in the long run.The vinyl revival represents more than nostalgia its a testament to the enduring appeal of analog sound in our digital world. Whether you choose a sophisticated turntable with customizable components or an all-in-one record player for convenience, each offers a unique gateway to experiencing music in its most authentic form. Todays market caters to every preference, from sleek wall-mounted designs that save space to sustainable options crafted from eco-friendly materials. The choice between a turntable and record player ultimately depends on your listening priorities: audiophiles seeking premium sound quality may gravitate toward turntables, while casual listeners might prefer the simplicity of record players. Regardless of your choice, embracing vinyl connects you to musics rich history while participating in its exciting future, where tradition and innovation harmoniously coexist.The post Turntable vs. Record Player: Decoding the Vinyl Experience For the Nostalgic Audiophile first appeared on Yanko Design.

An unwise move.

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