Process-supervised reward models (PRMs) offer fine-grained, step-wise feedback on model responses, aiding in selecting effective reasoning paths for complex tasks. Unlike output reward models (ORMs), which evaluate responses based on final outputs, PRMs provide detailed assessments at each step, making them particularly valuable for reasoning-intensive applications. While PRMs have been extensively studied in language tasks, their application in multimodal settings remains largely unexplored. Most vision-language reward models still rely on the ORM approach, highlighting the need for further research into how PRMs can enhance multimodal learning and reasoning.Existing reward benchmarks primarily focus on text-based models, with some specifically designed for PRMs. In the vision-language domain, evaluation methods generally assess broad model capabilities, including knowledge, reasoning, fairness, and safety. VL-RewardBench is the first benchmark incorporating reinforcement learning preference data to refine knowledge-intensive vision-language tasks. Additionally, multimodal RewardBench expands evaluation criteria beyond standard visual question answering (VQA) tasks, covering six key areascorrectness, preference, knowledge, reasoning, safety, and VQAthrough expert annotations. These benchmarks provide a foundation for developing more effective reward models for multimodal learning.Researchers from UC Santa Cruz, UT Dallas, and Amazon Research benchmarked VLLMs as ORMs and PRMs across multiple tasks, revealing that neither consistently outperforms the other. To address evaluation gaps, they introduced VILBENCH, a benchmark requiring step-wise reward feedback, where GPT-4o with Chain-of-Thought achieved only 27.3% accuracy. Additionally, they collected 73.6K vision-language reward samples using an enhanced tree-search algorithm, training a 3B PRM that improved evaluation accuracy by 3.3%. Their study provides insights into vision-language reward modeling and highlights challenges in multimodal step-wise evaluation.VLLMs are increasingly effective across various tasks, particularly when evaluated for test-time scaling. Seven models were benchmarked using the LLM-as-a-judge approach to analyze their step-wise critique abilities on five vision-language datasets. A Best-of-N (BoN) setting was used, where VLLMs scored responses generated by GPT-4o. Key findings reveal that ORMs outperform PRMs in most cases except for real-world tasks. Additionally, stronger VLLMs do not always excel as reward models, and a hybrid approach between ORM and PRM is optimal. Moreover, VLLMs benefit from text-heavy tasks more than visual ones, underscoring the need for specialized vision-language reward models.To assess ViLPRMs effectiveness, experiments were conducted on VILBENCH using different RMs and solution samplers. The study compared performance across multiple VLLMs, including Qwen2.5-VL-3B, InternVL-2.5-8B, GPT-4o, and o1. Results show that PRMs generally outperform ORMs, improving accuracy by 1.4%, though o1s responses showed minimal difference due to limited detail. ViLPRM surpassed other PRMs, including URSA, by 0.9%, demonstrating superior consistency in response selection. Additionally, findings suggest that existing VLLMs are not robust enough as reward models, highlighting the need for specialized vision-language PRMs that perform well beyond math reasoning tasks.In conclusion, Vision-language PRMs perform well when reasoning steps are segmented, as seen in structured tasks like mathematics. However, in functions with unclear step divisions, PRMs can reduce accuracy, particularly in visual-dominant cases. Prioritizing key steps rather than treating all equally improves performance. Additionally, current multimodal reward models struggle with generalization, as PRMs trained on specific domains often fail in others. Enhancing training by incorporating diverse data sources and adaptive reward mechanisms is crucial. The introduction of ViLReward-73K improves PRM accuracy by 3.3%, but further advancements in step segmentation and evaluation frameworks are needed for robust multimodal models.Check outthe Paper.All credit for this research goes to the researchers of this project. Also,feel free to follow us onTwitterand dont forget to join our85k+ ML SubReddit. Sana HassanSana Hassan, a consulting intern at Marktechpost and dual-degree student at IIT Madras, is passionate about applying technology and AI to address real-world challenges. With a keen interest in solving practical problems, he brings a fresh perspective to the intersection of AI and real-life solutions.Sana Hassanhttps://www.marktechpost.com/author/sana-hassan/Enhancing Strategic Decision-Making in Gomoku Using Large Language Models and Reinforcement LearningSana Hassanhttps://www.marktechpost.com/author/sana-hassan/Mitigating Hallucinations in Large Vision-Language Models: A Latent Space Steering ApproachSana Hassanhttps://www.marktechpost.com/author/sana-hassan/A Comprehensive Guide to LLM Routing: Tools and FrameworksSana Hassanhttps://www.marktechpost.com/author/sana-hassan/Understanding AI Agent Memory: Building Blocks for Intelligent Systems

GameCube games coming exclusively to the Switch 2's exclusive online library is one of the best features of the new console. To make those membership costs just that little bit easier, UK retailer ShopTo has NSO at 35% off right now. As you get your Nintendo Switch 2 pre-orders in, this is an absolute bonus bargain to consider.While some Nintendo Classics catalogues are unlocked with the base online subscription, you'll also need the Expansion Pack to play GameCube titles on Nintendo Switch 2. What's more, while you can subscribe to a monthly model for just Nintendo Switch Online, the Expansion Pack is only available on the 12-month plan, so make a note when purchasing.Nintendo Switch Online 12 Month + Expansion Pack 365 Days Membership Download (UK - EU)Nintendo Switch Online 12 Month Family Membership + Expansion Pack 365 Days Download (UK - EU)Currently, the individual versions of these combined 12-month subscriptions cost either 34.99 on the Nintendo eShop or 39.99 at retailers like ShopTo. But now, it seems like ShopTo are keen to get on the Switch 2 hype by slashing 14.14 off the individual plan and 15.14 off the family plans respectively.So, if you're the only Nintendo Switch players in your household, you can buy the individual Online + Expansion Pack plan for 25.85 or the Family Membership for 44.85. Overall, the family version is fantastic value as you can have up to eight Nintendo Accounts under a Family Group sharing the same membership, and you don't have to be in the same household either. Under ShopTo's new price, that's as low as 5.60 per person getting to enjoy Nintendo Switch Online and the entire Expansion Pack's catalogue of gamesincluding GameCube gems Pokemon XD: Gale of Darkness, Soulcalibur 2, and The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker for a whole year. If you're like me, though, and have already have a basic Nintendo Switch Online membership active until next year, the only way to upgrade is through Nintendo themselveseither on their website or the eShopwithout a direct discount from retailers like ShopTo. Nintendo eShop Card - 15Nintendo eShop Card - 25Nintendo eShop Card - 50Nintendo eShop Card - 75Nintendo eShop Card - 100However, a way to get around that is by purchasing discounted digital Nintendo eShop gift cards from Currys. Buy entering the code "NINTENDODIGITAL10" at checkout, you'll get 10% off on 15, 25, 50, 75, and 100 amounts of eShop creditsaving you as much as 10. In the case of upgrading your 12-month Nintendo Switch Online membership, the cost of which varies depending on how much is left, you can buy the closest amount you need or a larger amount at a bigger discount, and use any extra credit you have on digital games or save it to put toward your subscription next year.Ben Williams IGN freelance contributor with over 10 years of experience covering gaming, tech, film, TV, and anime. Follow him on Twitter/X @BenLevelTen.

While not every character is getting the time they deserve this season, The Wheel of Time is doing an excellent job of combining plots from several of Robert Jordans books to keep the action moving while further weaving together the heroes as they grow as people together. Case in point: The Shadow in the Night, in which an old friend returns to lead a raunchy musical number while the Forsaken fight amongst themselves. Its an episode that uses major tone shifts to great dramatic effect. Ive been critical of how much attention has been paid to Liandrin thus far, but I did enjoy the opening of The Shadow in the Night, which shows how the Aes Sedai pledged herself to Ishamael out of sheer desperation. Combined with Lanfears supposed interest in breaking her oaths, the examination of choice and redemption makes the villains a bit more sympathetic. It also demonstrates the strength of one of the seasons new characters, Faile, who showed her strength by fleeing when her parents tried to recruit her to join the Dark. (The other Liandrin-related piece of The Shadow of the Night I enjoyed is how little her costume changes in her dream of being Amyrlin shes Red Ajah to her core.)The Wheel of Time has some very powerful villains, but they all have their own agendas. Thats giving the heroes a bit of an edge as two of the five Black Ajah in Tanchico die due to infighting this week. Moghedien is pulling the exact same trick that Siuan Sanche did with Min, disguising herself as a servant to go ignored among Aes Sedai since theyre just as arrogant in Tanchico as they were in Tar Valon. Her performance is too over the top, but I appreciate the symmetry in the plots.Perrins storyline is the weakest part of this season, but thats only partially the shows fault: The character often feels like hes too far from the real action in the books, too. But its not all bad: Hopefully Perrin hooking up with Faile will stop him from brooding about his wifes death, putting an end to the worst plot invented for the show. Perrin revealing that the Horn of Valere has already been found by unveiling a goofy drawing of Mat is a great callback to the season 3 premiere, and much better than the way that information is shared in the books, where he actively hides the fact that Failes quest has already been completed. This section of the story also promises to pick up some steam soon with the return of Padan Fain, who has been one of the shows best villains thanks to Johann Myers deeply off-putting performance.The Wheel of Time Season 3 GalleryAlso making an exciting reappearance this episode is gleeman Thom Merrilin, one of the standout characters of season 1. Thom is hilariously desperate to avoid being swept up in the antics of a taveren but forced to intervene when he sees the daughter-heir of Andor is in trouble. Its not surprising that Elayne would know how to sing; it's more shocking that she proves her skill by performing the local equivalent of Baby Got Back: The Hills of Tanchico, a raunchy tune that gets all the ladies in the bar jiggling their breasts. The Wheel of Time has done well by taking a page from The Witcher and breaking up its epic fantasy with a rousing, catchy musical number. The whimsy of that scene provides a brutal contrast to what happens to Elayne and Nynaeve next, as Moghedien traps them in her web with compulsion. Zo Robins and Ceara Coveney do a great job selling the spells power by dissolving into giddy giggles as they divulge all their deepest secrets to the Forsaken. Its especially tragic for Nynaeve, who voices a revelation about hating her power that would be really important for her character growth if she could remember it. Breaking up the epic fantasy with a rousing, catchy musical number serves The Wheel of Time well.Rand might be an outsider among the Aiel, but his interest in farming is genuine and his continued bonding with Alsera over her squashes helps charm Avienda. Rands guide may have been showing her contempt for her job by letting him break etiquette by grabbing Alseras tiny spear, but Rand comes out looking good, showing hes learned the way to properly make amends. Its an incredibly sweet scene that makes the tragedy at the end of the episode even more agonizing.Egwene and Rand finally find a time to chat about their doomed relationship and Lanfear in a phenomenal demonstration of contrast between the two characters. Egwene shines throughout The Shadow in the Night as she demonstrates her relentless determination: She lies to the Aiel Wise Ones about being an Aes Sedai, and responds to almost being killed by Lanfear by immediately restarting her dream-control exercises. But she really unleashes on Rand, who stoically accepts her fury and explains his realization that even though he might be the most powerful and important man in the world, hell still never be enough for Egwene. The Wheel of Time Season 3 Character PostersThe touching moment and the building fury Rand feels when he learns what Lanfears been doing to Egwene is interrupted by an attack led by Samael, presumably the surprise Lanfear told Moiraine about earlier in the episode. When the Forsaken were all set free at the end of season 2, I was worried that some of them wouldnt be given the attention they deserve, and thats the case here. Samael is easily dealt with once Rand finally gets to unleash some of his power.While the Aiel dont blame Rand for Alseras accidental death, the child was a rare source of joy for Rand. Hes desperate to believe the Dragon Reborn should be able to fix anything, and seeing him acknowledge his limits is heartbreaking. Its a testament to Josha Stradowskis acting abilities how well he alternates between the brink of mania and cold acceptance. When Rand asked about Moiraines vision of Rhuidiean, all he really wanted to know about was who he might kill. This death will likely just further his belief that hes too dangerous to be around.

This article contains spoilers for the season finale of PulsePulses season finale might not be quite as shocking as the season opener its hard to beat the devastation of a hurricane but the conclusion of this Netflix medical drama does a great job of wrapping up a lot of plot threads while leaving things open for a potential second season to pick up on.Heres everything you need to know from the Pulse season finale, and what it means for the future of Maguire Medical Center and its staff.Why Did Xander Leave Kennedy?Xander tells Danny the real reason he left Kennedy was to give her ammo against his parents. Xanders parents, especially his mother, are leading the charge to get her fired from Maguire even though she withdrew her complaint against Xander. Even though it breaks his NDA, Xander tells her that he was responsible for the death of a patient.The ER at Kennedy was slammed, but Xander still tried to help a longtime patient of his, Julio, who came in for a paracentesis. Because he had recently started college, he was overdue for the procedure, which was usually done through his GI doctor. Julio and his mother plead with Xander to relieve the internal pressure hes feeling, Xander agrees, and tries to hide it from his supervisor, Dr. Broussard. When she catches him, she insists he try to finish the procedure as soon as he can to free up the bed for more emergent patients. He asks for an ultrasound, both of which are currently in use, and she insists that under her supervision he can do this basic procedure without one, even though hes never done it before. He completes the procedure and discharges Julio, but later that night Julio returns.His mother is distraught, bringing him to the ER in a panic, saying he collapsed as soon as they got home. Xander rushes to treat him, coming to the conclusion that he did the procedure wrong and Julio bled out into his abdomen. Julio crashes, and despite Xander and the staffs best efforts, they arent able to revive him. Xanders parents swept this under the rug, partially to protect his career, but mostly to not ruin theirs.At the end of the episode, Danny promises Xander that despite not getting Chief, shes not going to reveal what he told her to anyone. Xander tells her that doesnt matter because he decided to go to Maguires hospital board to tell them everything. He doesnt want that mistake hanging over his head anymore, even if that means getting sued or losing his medical license.Does Danny Get Fired From Maguire?After shoving a belligerent patient, Danny is told by Dr. Cruz that shes on thin ice with the hospital. Dr. Cruz is being strongly encouraged by higher ups to let Danny go if she wants to keep control of surgery and the ER. Danny does her best to keep her head down and do her job, which soon includes treating the very man who was threatening her. Danny helps to save him, his wife, and his child, whom he injured by speeding across train tracks, despite the fact that he continues to badger her and almost refuses care entirely.Seeing how compassionate Danny is, even with patients who dont necessarily deserve it, Dr. Cruz stands strong in her decision to keep Danny on, and even tells Danny that shes her choice for Chief Resident.Does Camila Leave Maguire?Sophie is surprised to learn that Camila has put in a request to leave Maguire and transfer to another hospital for her next rotation. Camila tells Sophie that its because she cant stand the way that Tom treats her and doesnt want to suffer the same fate as a surgical intern. This inspires Sophie to finally stand up for herself against Tom, a conversation that Camila happens to overhear.Proud of her friend, and inspired by Dr. Cruzs words of encouragement she hears soon after, Camila decides to stay a fact that she doesnt reveal to Sophie until after Sophies heartfelt plea. It seems like there might be something more between these two friends, until we finally meet Camilas fiance.Join our mailing listGet the best of Den of Geek delivered right to your inbox!Who Becomes Chief Resident?The episode ends with a hospital-wide party meant to usher in the next era of Maguire as the student staff members transition to their next stations. As mentioned previously, Dr. Cruz is being pressured to let Danny go in order to keep the surgery and ER departments both under her control. But because she decides to keep Danny on, she announces at the party that the ER will now be under the management of Dr. Patrick Sanchez (J.R. Ramirez), who has been one of the many people trying to convince Dr. Cruz that Danny shouldnt be Chief Resident.Because of this, instead of announcing Danny as Chief as Dr. Cruz intended, Dr. Sanchez blindsides them and announces that Dannys friend, and competitor, Sam Elijah will be Chief Resident.All 10 episodes of Pulse are available to stream on Netflix now.

SummaryTwo-Toed Tom, a legendary beast of Southern folklore, comes to life in South of Midnight, the new action-adventure from Compulsion GamesTo celebrate the launch, Xbox has recreated Two-Toed Tom and dropped him in a real gator-infested bayou for a truly unique gaming experience. Register now for a chance to enter the belly of the beast.South of Midnight launches on April 8, or play now with the Premium Edition.Deep in the heart of the bayou, something stirs. Bigger than any gator youve ever seen, Two-Toed Tom is a legend of scales, survival, and insatiable hunger. More than double the size of the worlds biggest recorded alligator, Tom is an unstoppable force of nature.To celebrate the launch of South of Midnight, in which Tom makes a very big appearance, Xbox has brought this monstrous gator to life in the gator-infested waters of Marrero, Louisiana, a location chosen for its haunting resemblance to the games Southern-inspired setting. Murky swamps, ancient cypress trees, and the distant splash of unseen creatures make it the perfect place to step into Hazels world and experience the bayous dark magic first-hand.Our recreation of Tom is truly startling at 40 feet long, his jaws alone stand open at almost twice the height of a person, and inside his belly lies a 20-foot cabin, inspired by the very one that Hazel, the protagonist of South of Midnight lives in. Inside that cabin, players will find an immersive gaming space featuring four 42-inch screens connected to Xbox Series X consoles, ensuring a unique experience as they navigate the perilous world of South of Midnight.Fans can register here for a chance to visit Tom in person on April 5, 2025. Fans will be treated to a tour by Jean Lafitte Swamp Tours located in Marrero, LA. Hurry, spots are limited and he is not in a good mood. Spots will be granted on a first-come, first-served basis for eligible attendees over the age of 18. Attendees must provide their own transportation to designated pickup spot. Survive the Legend: Two-Toed Tom is Coming for You in South of MidnightThey say legends never die, but Two-Toed Tom is proof that some only grow stronger. Once a mistreated pet, Tom was so desperate to survive that he chewed off his own toes to escape. But hunger doesnt just fade, it grows. And so did Tom. He gorged on livestock, tore through buildings, and sent entire towns running. The villagers tried everything, bullets, poison, and even dynamite. But Tom didnt flinch. He just got bigger.Now, he waits. Watching. Biding his time for the river to rise again. Developed by Compulsion Games, South of Midnight is a darkly enchanting third-person action-adventure set in a reimagined Deep South. Players take on the role of Hazel, a courageous young woman pulled into a world of folklore, mystery, and danger. As she explores a land shaped by ancient myths and supernatural forces, Hazel must harness her magical abilities to confront terrifying creatures, including the legendary Two-Toed Tom. With stunning visuals, deep storytelling, and a hauntingly immersive atmosphere, South of Midnight invites players to step into a world where the past lingers, and legends come to life. South of Midnight Premium EditionXbox Game Studios$49.99Get it nowImmerse yourself into the macabre and fantastical world of South of Midnight with the Premium Edition, which includes the full game, up to 5 days early access, and digital access (in English) to: South of Midnight Artbook Original Soundtrack composed by Olivier DeriviereThe Boo-Hag Comic book by Rob GuilloryMusic Video: Songs & Tales of South of Midnight Documentary: Weaving Hazels Journey, Directors CutUNRAVEL THE PAST From the creators of Contrast and We Happy Few, South of Midnight is a spellbinding third person action-adventure game set in the American Deep South. As Hazel, you will explore the mythos and encounter creatures of Southern folklore in a macabre and fantastical world. When disaster strikes her hometown, Hazel is called to become a Weaver: a magical mender of broken bonds and spirits. Imbued with these new abilities, Hazel will confront and subdue dangerous creatures, untangle the webs of her own family's shared past and if she's lucky find her way to a place that feels like home. A DARK MODERN FOLKTALE When a hurricane rips through Prospero, Hazel is pulled into a Southern Gothic world of memory made real and must embark on a journey to rescue her mother and safeguard her hometown. In this folktale for modern times, Hazel will need to reconcile the weight of family, history, and legacy against her own identity. CONFRONT MYTHICAL CREATURES Wield an ancient power to restore creatures and uncover the traumas that consume them. Cast weaving magic to fight destructive Haints, explore the diverse regions of the South, and reweave the tears in the Grand Tapestry. HAUNTING BEAUTY OF THE GOTHIC SOUTH Discover the lush, decayed county of Prospero and its locals. Experience a crafted visual style, touching storytelling, and immersive music inspired by the complex and rich history of the South. South of MidnightXbox Game Studios$39.99Pre-orderFrom the creators of Contrast and We Happy Few, South of Midnight is a spellbinding third person action-adventure game set in the American Deep South. As Hazel, you will explore the mythos and encounter creatures of Southern folklore in a macabre and fantastical world. When disaster strikes her hometown, Hazel is called to become a Weaver: a magical mender of broken bonds and spirits. Imbued with these new abilities, Hazel will confront and subdue dangerous creatures, untangle the webs of her own family's shared past and if she's lucky find her way to a place that feels like home.A DARK MODERN FOLKTALE When a hurricane rips through Prospero, Hazel is pulled into a Southern Gothic world of memory made real and must embark on a journey to rescue her mother and safeguard her hometown. In this folktale for modern times, Hazel will need to reconcile the weight of family, history, and legacy against her own identity.CONFRONT MYTHICAL CREATURESWield an ancient power to restore creatures and uncover the traumas that consume them. Cast weaving magic to fight destructive Haints, explore the diverse regions of the South, and reweave the tears in the Grand Tapestry.HAUNTING BEAUTY OF THE GOTHIC SOUTHDiscover the lush, decayed county of Prospero and its locals. Experience a crafted visual style, touching storytelling, and immersive music inspired by the complex and rich history of the South.

Its another jam-packed weekend and a Free Play Days first, with Age of Wonders 4 unlocked on both console and PC!Dead by Daylight, Catan and Everspace 2 are available this weekend for Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, Standard and Core members to play from Thursday April 3 at 12:01am Pacific until Sunday, April 6 at 11:59pm Pacific.Age of Wonders 4 is free for all Xbox members to try from April 3 until April 6 (Xbox Game Pass Game Pass Ultimate, Standard and Core membership not required). Additionally, those on PC can try the game for free through the Xbox App.How To Start PlayingFind and install the games on each of the individual game details page onXbox.com. Clicking through will send you to the Microsoft Store, where you must be signed in to see the option to install with your Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, Standard and Core membership. To download on console, click on the Subscriptions tab in the Xbox Store and navigate down to the Free Play Days collection on your Xbox One and Xbox Series X|S.Keep The Fun GoingPurchase the game and other editions at a limited time discount and continue playing while keeping your Gamerscore and achievements earned during the event! Please note that discounts, percentages, and title availability may vary by title and region.Free Play Days (Xbox Game Pass Membership Required)Age of Wonders 4Paradox Interactive223$49.99$32.49Get it nowAge of Wonders 4Optimized for Xbox Series X|SDead by DaylightBehaviour Interactive Inc.1596$29.99$11.99Get it nowXbox Game PassDead by DaylightOptimized for Xbox Series X|S, Smart DeliveryTrapped forever in a realm of eldritch evil where even death is not an escape, four determined Survivors face a bloodthirsty Killer in a vicious game of nerve and wits. Pick a side and step into a world of tension and terror with horror gamings best asymmetrical multiplayer.CATAN Console EditionDovetail Games208$16.99$5.09Get it nowCatanOptimized for Xbox Series X|S, Smart DeliveryA Board Game that comes to life! Catan is reimagined on Xbox, with an interactive board, online multiplayer, couch multiplayer, and all the fun (and frustration) of the classic board game beloved by enthusiasts all over the globe.EVERSPACE 2ROCKFISH Games264$49.99Get it nowFree TrialEverspace 2Optimized for Xbox Series X|S, Xbox Play AnywhereTake flight in this fast-paced single-player space shooter, where vicious encounters and brutal challenges stand between you and that next epic loot drop. Explore the war-torn star systems of the Demilitarized Zone of Cluster 34each massive handcrafted area is packed with secrets, puzzles, and perils to encounter.

People will do almost anything to sell their homes as quickly as possible. From a fresh coat of paint to an overhaul of your entire landscaping plan, no tip or trick is off-limits. But sometimes your property doesnt need a major renovation or even a new color palette, it just needs to be staged the right way. Home staging is the not-so-secret tool realtors use to boost their listing prospects. Encompassing everything from rearranging furniture to adding in new decor and fresh flowers, home staging can take a good listing and make it even better. When it comes to selling your home, there are many factors to consider, from realtor commissions to home inspections, and while those costs tend to have a straightforward pricing structure, staging often feels more ambiguous. How much does home staging cost, and is it really worth the investment? The truth is, a professionally staged home not only attracts more buyers but can also lead to higher offers. We talked to professional home stager Terry Mainord to demystify the costs of home staging, share insider tips on budgeting, and explain the valuable role of home stagers. Whether youre preparing for your first listing or fine-tuning your approach, this comprehensive guide will answer the burning question: how much does home staging cost? Read on to learn everything you need to know about how to make your open house a winning success.Related StoriesHow Much Does House Staging Cost?FollowTheFlow//Getty ImagesThe overall cost of home staging can be broken into two key parts: a consultation and a per-room fee. The initial design consultation is typically a flat fee or hourly rate that's usually between $300 and $600, paid one time. Here, you and the stager will discuss your goals, the rooms that need staging, and in some cases, tour your home to finalize a game plan. Home staging costs vary drastically depending on where in the country you are. While I calculate staging budgets hourly, I present clients with a flat rate, explains Mainord. These costs cover my fee, assistants, movers for delivery and pickup (including tips), furniture rental, and transportation. Mainord also includes a purchase allowance for updating light fixtures and other necessary items that cannot be rented.The per-room cost is a specific number that is assigned to each room. According to the experts at Realtor.com, the average cost is between $400 and $600 per room. Areas that need less styling and furniture, like a kitchen or basement, will cost less than high-touch spaces like living rooms and bedrooms. Most professional home stagers will charge this fee monthly for however long it takes your home to sell, especially if you are using furniture and decor they provided. This means that a standard, single-family home would cost on average $2,000 per month to professionally stage, excluding the consultation fee. The higher costs associated with being in a major metro area like New York reflect increased expenses for warehouse storage, inventory, movers, and labor, says Mainord. My stagings can range from $6,000 to $35,000 for a 90-day period, depending on the property size and whether it's vacant or occupied. Occupied residences will cost more to stage as there is a greater likelihood for the rental furniture and decor to incur wear and tear.Related StoryWhat Exactly Does a Home Stager Do?A home stager is responsible for readying your homes interior for listing and viewing when it's time to sell. Stagers often rearrange furniture or bring in other pieces to best highlight your home. Home stagers are experts who understand what potential buyers are looking for and can outfit your property accordingly. This means that if a home office is a must-have in your area, but you dont have one, a stager can transform an extra bedroom or alcove into one by bringing in a desk and other corresponding furniture. Stagers are also great at eliminating clutter or clearing overcrowded spaces. Overall, a home stager implements a design strategy to help present your home to buyers in the best possible light.Is Staging Your Home Worth It?If youre looking to set yourself up for success in an already competitive real estate market, we say that staging your home is worth it. Home staging can spark bidding wars, faster-than-average sales, and even offers well above your original listing price or appraisal. Well-staged properties sell faster and at higher prices. Unlike virtual staging, physical staging allows buyers to envision living in the home, creating an aspirational and positive experience, says Mainord. Staging can highlight a home's strengths and minimize its weaknesses. Related StoryHome Staging Cost FAQsWhat Is Virtual Staging?As the name suggests, virtual staging is home staging, but entirely virtual or digital. A standard home stager uses real furniture in your actual home to enhance the appearance. Virtual staging, on the other hand, includes altered photographs of your home, adding furniture, changing paint colors, and making your home appear better than it does in real life. While this is legal, realtors must disclose if the listing photos have been digitally altered and enhanced. Virtual staging does not change the layout or structure of your home but uses rendering software to place furniture and other items in the photos used in the online listings. Does Home Staging Help Sell a House?Yes! Home staging can help a home sell faster and for above the asking price, according to Mainord. The experts at Realtor.com agree, and state that staged homes can sell from anywhere between 10 and 20 percent more than unstaged homes. Listings that have utilized stagers are usually on the market for a shorter time as well.How Can I Find a Home Stager?We recommend starting by asking your realtor. Because you want to work with a stager who understands what your local market looks for in a home, your realtor is the best resource to connect you.Related StoryFollow House Beautiful on Instagram and TikTok.Expert consulted:Terry MainordHome StagerA native of Houston, Texas, Terry comes from a diverse creative background that includes a BFA in fine art, masters work in film and photography at Syracuse University, and a long successful career in NYC as a fashion and prop stylist. Her numerous prop styling clients included high end home furnishings clients, magazines, and retailers such as Robert Allen Fabrics, Benjamin Moore, Michael Aram, Oneida, Nambe, The Peninsula Hotel, Arte Italica, Macys, Saks and others. Years of prop styling honed her eye to how things are going to look on film an invaluable skill for a stager along with a deep understanding of composition, color and scale. She takes a unique approach to each project, whether a staging or interior. Drawn to interiors which are modern yet timeless, her stagings & interiors are infused with a richness that comes from an eclectic mixture of elements. Terry Mainord Design is based in Brooklyn, NY.

Google DeepMinds reported clampdown on sharing research will stifle AI innovation, warns the CEO of Iris.ai, one of Europes leading startups in the space.The UK-based lab has tightened its rules on releasing AI studies, the Financial Times reported this week. Citing seven current and former DeepMind scientists, the newspaper said the company has introduced stricter vetting and additional bureaucracy, making it harder to publish research. The changes aim to protect the companys edge in AI, the sources said.Acquired by Google in 2014, DeepMind has long been a leader in computer science breakthroughs. In recent years, however, the lab has faced increasing competition from the likes of OpenAI and DeepSeek. Under growing pressure to stay ahead, the company is reportedly erecting new barriers around its innovations and reputation.The new constraints have alarmed Anita Schjll Abildgaard, co-founder and CEO of Iris.ai, a Norwegian startup developing an AI-powered engine for science. She fears DeepMinds restrictions will hinder technological advances.The of EU techThe latest rumblings from the EU tech scene, a story from our wise ol' founder Boris, and some questionable AI art. It's free, every week, in your inbox. Sign up now!DeepMinds decision marks the end of an era of openness and collaboration in AI research, she said.The impact on AIOn first impression, the changes at DeepMind may appear beneficial for other AI labs. The companys pioneering innovations and enormous citation counts have overshadowed other researchers in the field, who could now receive a larger share of the spotlight. But Abildgaard warns the drawbacks will far outweigh the benefits.Researchers across industries will have less access to DeepMinds undoubtedly impressive work, she said.She pointed to the example of DeepMinds AlphaFold, a system that predicts protein structure with remarkable accuracy. The software has been hailed as a solution to one of biologys biggest mysteries, with potential to fuel countless advances, from discovering new drugs to tackling climate change.Its hard to imagine projects of this importance being released so readily under this new diktat, Abildgaard said.The impacts, she warned, could be severe. In response, she urged AI companies to strengthen their commitment to openness.Europe, in particular, has one of the most fertile open-source research communities in the world, she said. As DeepMind looks inwards, smaller research communities can differentiate themselves from the American giants by embracing collaboration.Europes AI sector features prominently in the agenda forTNW Conference, which takes place on June 19-20 in Amsterdam. Ticketsfor the event are now on sale. Use the code TNWXMEDIA2025 at the check-out to get 30% off the price tag. Story by Thomas Macaulay Managing editor Thomas is the managing editor of TNW. He leads our coverage of European tech and oversees our talented team of writers. Away from work, he e (show all) Thomas is the managing editor of TNW. He leads our coverage of European tech and oversees our talented team of writers. Away from work, he enjoys playing chess (badly) and the guitar (even worse). Get the TNW newsletterGet the most important tech news in your inbox each week.Also tagged with

Joining some ongoing $100 price drops on iPad mini 7 and the new M4 MacBook Air, today we are turning our attention back to AirPods. Amazon has now brought back its best price of the year on the latest AirPods 4 with ANC down at $149 shipped, which is now joined by a solid $250 price drop on Apples 1TB 13-inch M4 iPad Pro. From there we move over to a 20% clearance price drop on the official blue Apple Ocean Band alongside a new all-time low Belkins 15W MagSafe Wireless Car Charger mount, a 25% price drop on Eves latest Energy (Matter) smart plug, Bose earbuds, and this 140W USB-C to MagSafe 3 nylon braided cable at just $20.All of that and more awaits below in todays 9to5Toys Lunch Break.Apples latest AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation return to Amazon 2025 low at $149 todayUpdate: After jumping back up to full price, this deal we spotted during the Big Spring Sale has now returned again this morning.Amazon now has the elevated AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation back down at the Big Spring Sale price we featured last month. Regularly $179, Amazon is now offering Apples latest AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation down back down at $148.99 shipped this is matching our previous mention and the lowest price we have tracked this year there.While we did catch a short-lived offer on the ANC AirPods 4 ahead of Christmas last year at the $139 Amazon all-time low, todays deal is otherwise on par with the best we have seen otherwise. There have also been some extremely fleeting, almost spammy, offers from less than desirable online retailers for less, but just about no one had a chance to scoop them up and Im not sure you would have even wanted too anyway I didnt.Apples AirPods Pro 2 remain the gold standard in Apple in-ear listening experiences if you ask me (and million of others) they were after all one of the most popular products among 9to5Toys readers last year despite the newer AirPods 4 hitting the market last fall, and were featured in our 9to5Toys Favorite Things of 2024 feature for this reason.That said, the AirPods 4 are a less pricey endeavor and one that we came away quite impressed with after getting hands-on last year Hands-on with AirPods 4: better in every way.Joining the active noise cancelation, Siri hands- and voice-free interactions, Voice Isolation, and Personalized Spatial Audio tech, they land with a redesigned earbud form-factor featuring a refined contour, shorter stem, and quick-press controls for music or calls alongside a case that is the smallest in the industry with wireless chargingDREAMEs Spring Cleaning sale up to $700 off intelligent robotic cleaners and effortless wet/dry vacsDREAME is offering hundreds on savings on its range of intelligent robotic vacuum and mop combos as well as its wet/dry and stick vacuum models. Delivering as much as $700 in savings on X40 Ultra Robot Vacuum and Mop, youll find some of the best prices of the year on a collection of models across the brands to meet just about anyones needs.DREAME X40 Ultra Robot Vacuum and Mop:$900(Reg. $1 600)DREAME L40 Ultra Robot Vacuum and Mop:$500(Reg. $1,500)DREAME L10s Ultra Gen 2 Robot Vacuum and Mop:$400(Reg. $900)DREAME H12 Pro Wet & Dry Vac:$255(Reg. $450)DREAME H14 Pro Wet & Dry Vac:$400(Reg. $700)DREAME H14 Wet & Dry Vac:$300(Reg. $500)DREAME Z30 Stick Vac:$350(Reg. $700)DREAME R10 Stick Vac:$190(Reg. $300)While pricing on the more affordable end of the lineup has jumped up recently, we are tracking another chance to score the 1TB 13-inch M4 iPad Pro back down at $1,649 shipped thats $250 off and matching our previous mention. Head below for more details and a chance to save even more on an open-box listing with a full Apple warranty in tow.This configuration dropped down at $1,699 for Presidents Day earlier this year, but Amazon is now offering another opportunity to land it at $50 less than that to match the best price of the year this is $250 off the full price youll find at Best Buy.Just keep in mind you can score an excellent condition open-box unit at Best Buy right now with a full 1-year Apple warranty down at $1,586.99 shipped. This is $312 off the list price at Apple and the lowest price we can find on a comparable open-box unit from a reputable dealer.The 13-inch 1TB model certainly isnt the most universally appealing it isnt exactly the most affordable tablet out there. But if youre looking to land a serious workhorse of a tablet that can offer complete workstation potential, the up to $312 in savings we are tracking here today should be on your radar.That said, if theres another configuration you have your eye on, scope out the list of discounted pricing below just note the most affordable 11-inch models have been $150 more than a few times since release:Apple M4 iPad Pro 11-inch 256GB $919 (Reg. $999)Apple M4 iPad Pro 11-inch 512GB $1,099 (Reg. $1,199)Apple M4 iPad Pro 11-inch 1TB $1,449 (Reg. $1,599)Apple M4 iPad Pro 11-inch 2TB $1,869 (Reg. $1,999)Apple M4 iPad Pro 13-inch 256GB $1,099 (Reg. $1,299)Apple M4 iPad Pro 13-inch 512GB $1,299 (Reg. $1,499)Apple M4 iPad Pro 13-inch 1TB $1,649 (Reg. $1,899)Apple M4 iPad Pro 13-inch 2TB $1,999 (Reg. $2,299)Official blue Apple Ocean Band sees clearance pricing today at 20% offWhile much of the official Apple Watch band deals we featured lates last month at Amazon have now jumped back up in price, Best Buy is offering a clearance offer on the official Blue Apple Ocean Band for Apple Watch Ultra 1/2 at $79.99 shipped. This is an originally $99 model, that is now seeing a solid 20% price drop to deliver the lowest price we can find from a reputable dealer there are a ton of Apple lookalike rip-off bands out there, but this is the real thing.We have featured loads of deals on the Trail and Alpine Loops this year, but they are almost never a full 20% off and discounts on Ocean Bands are much harder to come by in general. While the shade of blue we are featuring here today is from the previous-generation offerings, it is otherwise identical to the latest models.This model is seeing clearance pricing today, but this is a brand new unit in the official Apple box and with the standard warranty.The Ocean Band, for those not already familiar, is made from a high performance elastomer with what Apple refers to as tubular geometry allowing it to stretch for a perfect fit, even over a wetsuit. The model we are featuring on sale here right now features a Natural Titanium buckle and the usual adjustable loop for a secure, and snug fit one size fits just about everyone on the Ocean Band.Prefer you some leather? Burton Goods Pilot strap for Apple Watch is now nearly 50% offand be sure to dive into the ongoing Nomad sitewide sale for deals on its wonderful straps before you check out our hands-on review of Spigens new $20 Trail Loop-style Apple Watch band.Belkins 15W MagSafe Wireless Car Charger mount just hit the $58 Amazon all-time low (Nearly 30% off)Eves latest Energy (Matter) smart plug is now 25% off once again down at $30 Prime shippedBose 48-hour Flash Sale: Diamond 60th Anniversary Edition QuietComfort Ultra Buds now $70 off, moreTodays accessories and charging deals:Apples new Sky Blue 15-inch M4 MacBook Air is now sitting at the $1,139 Amazon all-time low, more from $949While you can still score the most affordable 128GB iPad mini 7 down at $399 via Amazon, the mid-range 256GB configs quickly jumped back up to full price right in the middle of the Amazon Big Spring Sale last week. However, the deals are now back on all four colors at $499 shipped, down from the regular $599. Details below.I certainly wouldnt blame anyone for just jumping on the now $399 entry-model and calling it a day I have spent more than enough time talking about how I tend to try and save as much cash as possible when it comes to Apple storage upgrades. That said, the mini 7 starts at 128GB, as opposed to the 256GB entry point on the M4 iPad Pro for example this configuration is starting to show its age if you ask me.While it wasnt all that long ago when more than just entry-level iPads started at 64GB, the 128GB models need to go the way of the old 8GB Mac configs if you ask me. The 128GB is likely more than enough for some folks, but it is really starting to feel a bit tight for me, even on a less pricey iPad, and nows your chance to score a good mid-range compromise on one of the more affordable current-generation iPads in the lineup.iPad mini A17 Pro 128GB $399 (Reg. $499)iPad mini A17 Pro 256GB $499 (Reg. $599) iPad mini A17 Pro 256GB $699 (Reg. $799) If youre looking for a case or sleeve to safeguard your new mini, here are our favorite options from $8.50.Score Apple Pencil Pro at one of its best prices ever, now $80 (Reg. $129, New Open Box), USB-C model at $50You can score a 24GB M4 Pro MacBook Pro for the same price as the M4 1TB today, now $220 offTwelve Souths PlugBug USB-C Wall Charger with Apple Find My back to Amazon all-time low at $43 (Reg. $70)Nomads gorgeous latest-gen metal and glass 15W 3-in-1 MagSafe charger sees rare 15% price dropYou can once again score a giant 49% off Belkins 15W MagSafe Duo-style Travel Pad charger at $61Add 9to5Mac to your Google News feed. FTC: We use income earning auto affiliate links. More.Youre reading 9to5Mac experts who break news about Apple and its surrounding ecosystem, day after day. Be sure to check out our homepage for all the latest news, and follow 9to5Mac on Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn to stay in the loop. Dont know where to start? Check out our exclusive stories, reviews, how-tos, and subscribe to our YouTube channel

After nearly a decade, Nintendo finally returned with a true successor to the original Switch. The Nintendo Switch 2, unveiled at Nintendos Direct event, brings long-awaited upgrades across the board from display and performance to multiplayer features and accessories. I spent some hands-on time with the device at press-only Nintendo event yesterday, and as someone who has owned every Switch variant from the OG Switch to the Switch OLED, here are my thoughts.Nearly 6 hours of hands-on time with the new Switch 2The best part of the new Switch 2 is that it looks and feels like an upgrade in every way but is still familiar enough that you can learn the new nuances very easily. Nintendo struck a great happy medium between making it feel new but not foreign.Be sure to check the video below to see an in-depth, hands-on look at all things Switch 2 and a an inside peak at yesterdays private Switch 2 event in NYC!Nintendo Switch 2 SpecsLarger 7.9 display: Compared to the originals 6.2, the new screen is brighter and sharper.1080p LCD display with HDR: While it doesnt use OLED, it still supports HDR and looks great.120FPS: Gameplay feels more fluid when supported (not all games support 120FPS)Joy-Cons 2: These snap on with strong magnets and feel secure, eliminating the old rail system.Bigger SL/SR Buttons: A small change that makes a big difference in comfort, especially in single Joy-Con modeDual USB-C Ports: One on the top and one on the bottom for flexible charging and accessories.256GB Internal Storage: A huge leap from the 32GB on the original Switch.Improved Audio: Louder and clearer speakers, plus a built-in mic with active noise cancellation.New stand: Wider and more stable with adjustable angles.4K when docked: The new dock also includes a built-in fan for thermal management.Backward compatibility: Not every Switch 1 game will work, but most should work with a list coming soon. Hands-on experienceAs you might have assumed, the new Switch 2 is better in every single way compared to the original. The spec list alone shows you that every piece of hardware was updated to 2025 standards. But does that translate to real world improvements? Yes, yes it does.But I want to highlight a few things that really stood out. First off, the display looks fantastic in person crisp, vibrant, and fluid. Playing the new Mario Kart World felt like a generational leap, with rich environments and fast, smooth performance. It also helps that the game itself is just an overall better experience.The new Joy-Con controllers are surprisingly impressive. The magnetic attachment is strong and satisfying, with no risk of slipping off. I tested the strength with a few shake tests, and they held firmly in place. Each Joy-Con now also functions as amouse, which opens up new gameplay possibilities. I tested this in Drag & Drive, which mimics wheelchair movement with mouse-like precision super intuitive and surprisingly immersive. I also tested the mouse function in some Mario Party mini-games. While this feature is a cool demo, I cant see myself using this feature past just the Mario Party mini-games. But again, surprisingly great!Other tidbitsOne other small thing that I noticed that was worth sharing is the new material of the Switch 2. It has this nice, soft touch, rubbery feel that really helps mitigate fingerprints and greasy smudging. I think the new material will hold up great over time. You also might notice that there is a new button that does have the right Joy-Con with the letter C. This is the new Chat button that instantly puts you into a chat mode with other friends who are online. You will be able to have audio calls, video calls, screen share games, talk with multiple people, and play with people while video chatting, all enabled by the new Nintendo Camera. This was a big emphasis with the Switch 2. Nintendo has always preached community, and this new feature will continue to do so.Accessories and New FeaturesNintendo also introduced a few first party accessories that I wanted to touch on. There were two that really stood out to me:Nintendo Camera:$50 webcam with ultra-wide lens and a physical privacy shutterIntegrates directly into Nintendos new chat feature with a dedicated controller buttonReal-time face feeds during games like Mario Party, with screen sharing supportWorks across all play modes: handheld, tabletop, or dockedOne camera gives you four live video feeds with head trackingThe most impressive part for me was the fact that it can simultaneously track up to four people in the room with just the one camera. Felt like magic. New Pro ControllerImproved ergonomics and heftUSB-C chargingNew programmable back paddle buttonsGreat haptics and fingerprint-resistant finishSells for $80, a bit pricey for my liking but still a very well made controller that deserves the Pro namePricing & availabilityThe Switch 2 officially launches on June 5, with pre-orders starting on April 9th. Alongside that release, the Switch 2 will be sold in two variants. One has just the console, and the other is bundled with the new Mario Kart World game. Nintendo will also be releasing a slew of first-party accessories, which are listed below.Nintendo Switch 2: $449Switch 2 Bundle with Mario Kart World: $499Webcam Accessory: $49.99New Joy-Cons: $89.99Pro Controller: $79.99Final thoughtsAfter nearly six hours of hands-on time with the new Switch 2, Ive concluded that this is a meaningful and well-rounded upgrade that addresses many of the original Switchs shortcomings. From the better display and faster performance to the improved build and multiplayer features, it feels like Nintendo has thoughtfully refined the console without reinventing the wheel. They have added some fun new features, included some new updated games that I am excited to try, and kept the form factor extremely portable.If youre a longtime Switch owner or someone whos been holding out, this feels like a worthy step forward and one thats clearly built with both solo and social gamers in mind.FTC: 9to5Toys is reader supported, we may earn income on affiliate links Subscribe to the 9to5Toys YouTube Channel for all of the latest videos, reviews, and more!