Fang Eyewear Showroom | © Yu Sunping, Xie Shuxiang, Qu Wenhao, Wu Qiyan In Rui’an’s Mayu Town, an area long defined by its prominence in China’s eyewear manufacturing sector, the Fang Eyewear Showroom emerges as a calculated departure from conventional retail spaces. Designed by M-D DESIGN STUDIO, the project is situated at the intersection of urban regeneration and commercial reinvention. Rather than simply updating a showroom typology, the architects pursue a broader spatial proposition: that retail architecture can function as civic art, mediating between commerce, culture, and context. Fang Eyewear Showroom Technical Information Architects1-6: M-D DESIGN STUDIO Location: Mayu Town, Rui’an, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China Area: 1,300 m2 | 13,990 Sq. Ft. Completion Year: 2025 Photographs: © Yu Sunping, © Xie Shuxiang, © Qu Wenhao, © Wu Qiyan We envisioned the showroom not as a commercial interior, but as a spatial narrative where light, geometry, and movement transform retail into an urban cultural landmark. – Jizhong Wu, Lead Designer, M-D DESIGN STUDIO Fang Eyewear Showroom Photographs © Yu Sunping, Xie Shuxiang, Qu Wenhao, Wu Qiyan © Yu Sunping, Xie Shuxiang, Qu Wenhao, Wu Qiyan © Yu Sunping, Xie Shuxiang, Qu Wenhao, Wu Qiyan © Yu Sunping, Xie Shuxiang, Qu Wenhao, Wu Qiyan © Yu Sunping, Xie Shuxiang, Qu Wenhao, Wu Qiyan © Yu Sunping, Xie Shuxiang, Qu Wenhao, Wu Qiyan © Yu Sunping, Xie Shuxiang, Qu Wenhao, Wu Qiyan © Yu Sunping, Xie Shuxiang, Qu Wenhao, Wu Qiyan © Yu Sunping, Xie Shuxiang, Qu Wenhao, Wu Qiyan © Yu Sunping, Xie Shuxiang, Qu Wenhao, Wu Qiyan © Yu Sunping, Xie Shuxiang, Qu Wenhao, Wu Qiyan © Yu Sunping, Xie Shuxiang, Qu Wenhao, Wu Qiyan Rethinking the Showroom Typology in an Industrial Context The decline of industrial manufacturing in many Chinese cities has prompted a wave of adaptive transformations. Mayu Town, while historically linked to the eyewear industry, is currently navigating shifting economic and spatial paradigms. Against this backdrop, M-D DESIGN STUDIO conceives the Fang Eyewear Showroom not as a product-focused interior, but as an urban artifact. One that reclaims relevance for post-industrial architecture by embedding narrative, spatial generosity, and layered symbolism. The design approach intentionally distances itself from formulaic commercial strategies. Instead, the showroom is reconceived as a multi-sensory spatial sequence—integrating exhibition, hospitality, and literary functions. The programmatic hybridization reflects a changing attitude toward retail spaces: from transactional enclosures to public-oriented, experience-driven environments. Here, architecture is tasked with articulating a new form of urban memory. Light as Structure: Geometric Narratives and Spatial Flow Central to the design is a rigorous investigation of form and light. The architects draw from astronomical theories and traditional Indian symbolism, where the triangle represents spiritual creation and the unfolding of the future. This conceptual geometry is rendered spatially through the deployment of 45° light angles, which inform both the lighting scheme and the overall compositional logic. The resultant interior is defined by staggered geometric forms that play with both directionality and depth. The concept of “gaze” becomes architectural: each line of sight is carefully framed, interrupted, or extended by the configuration of walls, ceilings, and voids. Sunlight is treated not as a passive entry but as an agent of transformation, refracted through folded surfaces to produce ephemeral effects. As the day progresses, the space comes alive. A choreography of shifting shadows and reflections that alters perception and provokes a heightened sense of spatial awareness. This interplay of geometry and light is not decorative. It structures the visitor’s movement through the space, drawing them from the reception into an expansive atrium and beyond. Each shift in light, each shadow cast, reveals new alignments and associations; underscoring the project’s underlying ambition: to explore how spatial perception can be recalibrated through elemental design strategies. Fang Eyewear Showroom Material Palette Material choices in the Fang Eyewear Showroom are marked by restraint and intention. Rather than relying on surface ornament, the architects use a cohesive palette, primarily eco-friendly artistic paint, terrazzo, and stainless steel, to achieve continuity and modulation. Walls, ceilings, and floors are unified in a warm-white tone that diffuses light and softens spatial transitions. Within this muted canvas, subtle red accents and embedded membrane lighting introduce moments of contrast and rhythm. The tactile language of the showroom is one of tension and balance. Terrazzo’s granular texture contrasts with the smooth reflectivity of stainless steel, while the concealed lighting system animates these surfaces with precision. The showroom, café, and art bookstore are not spatially isolated but are interconnected through open planning and fluid thresholds. This continuity allows the architecture to dissolve boundaries between spaces, between users, and between commercial and cultural functions. By embedding materiality within a spatial narrative, M-D DESIGN STUDIO avoids spectacle and instead achieves atmospheric depth. The showroom feels both deliberate and open-ended: an environment designed for both occupation and reflection, rather than display. Commercial Space as Urban Cultural Artifact Perhaps the most compelling dimension of the project lies in its reframing of the showroom as a contributor to urban culture. The exterior landscape resists decorative formalism in favor of abstract geometries that extend the interior logic outward. Undulating ground planes and planar glass façades challenge conventional demarcations between interior and city, while simultaneously echoing the structural rhythms within. This spatial porosity situates the showroom not as a closed commercial entity but as part of a larger urban continuum. The “Light Museum” concept, implicitly referenced throughout the project, acts as both a metaphor and a framework. It speaks to the role of light in organizing space and to the broader aim of transforming the showroom into a platform for civic engagement. Fang Eyewear Showroom Plans Floor Plan | © M-D DESIGN STUDIO Fang Eyewear Showroom Image Gallery About M-D DESIGN STUDIO Founded in 2013 in Wenzhou, M-D DESIGN STUDIO operates across architecture, landscape, and visual arts. The studio is known for its human-centered and media-integrated approach to spatial design, shaping work that resonates with the cultural, urban, and environmental layers of the contemporary city. Credits and Additional Notes Lead Designer: Jizhong Wu Chief Designer: Yangling Ye Client: Fang Eyewear (Fang’s Glasses, founded in 1992) Primary Materials: Artistic Paint, Terrazzo, Stainless Steel Landscape Construction: Shanghai Dio Landscape Engineering & Design Co., Ltd. Landscape Area: 1,700 m²

The tourism industry is among the world’s worst polluters, accounting for 8 percent of global greenhouse gas emissions. To help buck that trend, a new hub for environmental education and sustainable tourism designed by ArchitectureWorks and WATERSHED has opened in Gulf Shores, Alabama. The Alabama-based firms designed the new Gulf Coast Ecocenter with the City of Gulf Shores and the Gulf Coast Center for Ecotourism and Sustainability. “This project is an example of what happens when architecture serves a broader environmental and educational mission,” Roger Mainor of ArchitectureWorks said in a statement. “From day one, the client’s vision shaped the design team’s approach—this is a place for hands-on learning, ecological awareness, and joyful connection with the outdoors.” The campus has open-air classrooms, teaching gardens, an adventure challenge course, and maker spaces spread across multiple buildings. (Cary Norton) The new 12-acre campus contains more than 17,000 square feet of space that supports long-term ecological and community resilience on the Gulf Coast, one of the areas most impacted by rising sea levels and temperatures. It has open-air classrooms, teaching gardens, an adventure challenge course, and maker spaces. Like agritourism sites, also growing in popularity, the campus cultivates a connection to land with a suite of activities and programs for visitors to partake in. There are three structures in total. The main building is where a large classroom space is sited. (Cary Norton) Large windows flood the main classroom with natural light. (Cary Norton) A mobility hub offers bicycles for guided excursions along nearby state parks and trails. All of these spaces are meant to encourage students and faculty alike to reconsider their relationship to the land, and envision sustainable futures. The mobility hub has bicycles for guided tours in state parks. (Cary Norton) Economical and attractive wood construction comprises much of the campus. Timber framing topped by pitched roofs, and generous fenestration affords sweeping views of a verdant landscape ripe for plotting greener futures. “The buildings and campus were designed in close collaboration with both educational and maintenance staff, so that they serve as a living laboratory for sustainable living and ecological restoration,” added Rebecca Dunn Bryant, WATERSHED founder and principal. The campus has gardens for students to learn about sustainable agriculture. (Cary Norton) Thermal chimneys and deep porches cool the buildings without the need for mechanical intervention. (Cary Norton) “We used historical climate responsive elements like deep porches, dog trots, and thermal chimneys so that visitors don’t have to retreat to the air-conditioned interiors to be comfortable,” Dunn Bryant continued. “It was important to owners and operators that the campus invite visitors to explore and appreciate the unique ecology of the gulf coast.” The project team is pursuing LEED Gold; and FORTIFIED Commercial Silver certifications, a design standard for resiliency against severe weather events.

Amy Horowitz (United States), “Oh, Hello!” All images courtesy of Pure Street Photography Grant 2025, shared with permission The Pure Street Photography Competition Spotlights Humor and Chance Amid the Ordinary April 25, 2025 Photography Grace Ebert Founded in 2020, Pure Street Photography celebrates a diverse array of captivating sights and image-makers around the globe. Coincidental timing, uncanny interactions, and moments that are stranger-than-fiction figure prominently in the platforms’s curation. To support their community, founders Dimpy Bhalotia and Kamal Kumaar Rao launched a grant competition earlier this year, with winners announced this week. Topping the contest is Ayanava Sil’s “Crown of Fire,” which captures the instantaneous chaos during a Diwali celebration as a child dashes with sparkling streaks trailing behind. “It’s a flash of magic caught in time, where light, joy, and imagination come together in one unforgettable frame,” Sil says. Ayanava Sil (India), “Crown of Fire” Other finalists include Amy Horowitz’s bizarre photo of an older woman clutching her bag while an enormous snake slithers up to the window where she’s seated. Joanna M. similarly builds curiosity tinged with the absurd as she photographs a proud beagle posing for paparazzi. See more of the contest’s winners below, and follow Pure Street Photography’s Instagram, a trove of visual wit and chance encounters. Anna Marzia Soria (Italy), “Optical Illusion” Joanna M. (United States), “Celebrity” Holger Kunze (Belgium), “The Double” Valeria Ciardulli (Italy), “Spectators” Julachart Pleansanit (Thailand), “Rahu” Mary Crnkovic Pilas (Croatia), “Sweet Bird of Youth” Next article

Published April 25, 2025 10:00am EDT close 'CyberGuy': This year’s most devastating data breaches Kurt Knutsson: Data breaches in 2024 exposed info of millions, stressing the need for better cybersecurity. Most companies use different vendors to run different parts of their business, such as customer management, finances, payroll and social media. To do this, they share access to customer data with these platforms. The issue is that not all vendors take cybersecurity seriously, and hackers are well aware of that. More and more, attackers are going after these weaker links in the digital supply chain. These kinds of breaches often happen quietly, exposing large amounts of customer information without touching a company’s main systems. It’s becoming a serious concern for both businesses and their customers. One of the latest cases involves Hertz, the car rental giant, which recently confirmed that customer data was exposed because of a cyberattack on one of its software vendors.Join the FREE "CyberGuy Report": Get my expert tech tips, critical security alerts and exclusive deals, plus instant access to my  Hertz rental location (Hertz)What happened at Hertz?Hertz, the global car rental company that also operates Dollar and Thrifty, has disclosed a data breach affecting thousands of its customers. The incident stems from a cyberattack on one of its third-party vendors, software provider Cleo, between October and December 2024. The breach did not compromise Hertz’s internal systems directly but involved data that had been shared with the vendor as part of its operational workflow.The compromised data varies by region but includes sensitive personal information such as names, dates of birth, contact details, driver’s license numbers and, in some cases, Social Security numbers and other government-issued IDs. Certain financial information, including payment card details and workers’ compensation claims, was also among the stolen records.In the U.S., disclosures were filed with regulatory bodies in California, Texas and Maine. Specifically, 3,457 individuals were affected in Maine and 96,665 in Texas. The total global impact, however, is believed to be far greater. Customers in Australia, Canada, the EU, New Zealand and the U.K. were also notified via breach notices on Hertz’s regional websites.WHAT IS ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (AI)?The breach is believed to be the work of the Clop ransomware gang, a well-known Russia-linked hacking group. Clop exploited a zero-day vulnerability in Cleo’s enterprise file transfer software, technology used by many large organizations to securely transmit sensitive business data. In 2024, the gang launched a mass-hacking campaign targeting Cleo users, ultimately stealing data from more than 60 companies, including Hertz.Interestingly, while Hertz was named on Clop’s dark web leak site in 2024, the company initially stated it had "no evidence" its systems or data had been compromised.When contacted by CyberGuy, a Hertz spokesperson said, "At Hertz, we take the privacy and security of personal information seriously. This vendor event involves Cleo, a file transfer platform used by Hertz for limited purposes. Importantly, to date, our forensic investigation has found no evidence that Hertz's own network was affected by this event. However, among many other companies affected by this event, we have confirmed that Hertz data was acquired by an unauthorized third party that we understand exploited zero-day vulnerabilities within Cleo's platform in October 2024 and December 2024." Hertz rental location (Hertz)What does this mean for customers?While Hertz’s internal systems were not breached, the exposure of personal data, including driver’s license numbers, contact details and government-issued IDs, poses serious risks. Affected individuals may be vulnerable to identity theft, fraudulent account openings and targeted phishing attempts. If Social Security numbers were involved, the potential for harm increases significantly. Anyone who rented from Hertz, Dollar or Thrifty between October and December 2024 should be on high alert. A hacker at work (Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson)7 ways to protect yourself after the Hertz data breachIf you think you were affected or just want to be cautious, here are some steps you can take right now to stay safe from the Hertz data breach.1. Watch out for phishing scams and use strong antivirus software: With access to your email, phone number or identification documents, attackers can craft convincing phishing emails pretending to be from healthcare providers or banks. These emails might include malicious links designed to install malware or steal login information. To defend yourself, use a strong antivirus program. Get my picks of the best 2025 antivirus protection winners for your Windows, Mac, Android and iOS devices.2. Scrub your data from the internet using a personal data removal service: The more exposed your personal information is online, the easier it is for scammers to use it against you. Following the Hertz breach, consider removing your information from public databases and people-search sites. Check out my top picks for data removal services here.3. Safeguard against identity theft and use identity theft protection: Hackers now have access to high-value information from the Hertz breach, including Social Security numbers, driver's license and bank information. This makes you a prime target for identity theft. They can also assist you in freezing your bank and credit card accounts to prevent further unauthorized use by criminals. Signing up for identity theft protection gives you 24/7 monitoring, alerts for unusual activity and support if your identity is stolen. See my tips and best picks on how to protect yourself from identity theft.GET FOX BUSINESS ON THE GO BY CLICKING HERE4. Set up fraud alerts: Requesting fraud alerts notifies creditors that they need extra verification before issuing credit in your name. You can request fraud alerts through any one of the three major credit bureaus; they’ll notify the others. This adds another layer of protection without completely freezing access to credit. 5. Monitor your credit reports: Check your credit reports regularly through AnnualCreditReport.com, where you can access free reports from each bureau once per year or more frequently if you’re concerned about fraud. Spotting unauthorized accounts early can prevent larger financial damage.6. Change passwords and use a password manager: Update passwords on any accounts tied to compromised data. Use unique passwords that are hard to guess and let a password manager do the heavy lifting by generating secure ones for you. Reused passwords are an easy target after breaches. Consider password managers for convenience and security. Get more details about my best expert-reviewed password managers of 2025 here.7. Be wary of social engineering attacks: Hackers may use stolen details like names or birth dates from breaches in phone scams or fake customer service calls designed to trick you into revealing more sensitive info. Never share personal details over unsolicited calls or emails. Social engineering attacks rely on trust, and vigilance is key. Kurt’s key takeawayCyber risk doesn’t always come from a company’s own network. It often originates in unseen corners of the digital supply chain. Even as companies double down on internal cybersecurity, they must be equally rigorous in how they vet and monitor third-party vendors. For consumers, it’s no longer enough to trust the big brand on the label. The data trail is wider, the attack surface larger and the consequences far more opaque. CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APPIf companies can’t protect our data, should they be allowed to collect so much of it? Let us know by writing us atCyberguy.com/Contact.For more of my tech tips and security alerts, subscribe to my free CyberGuy Report Newsletter by heading to Cyberguy.com/Newsletter.Ask Kurt a question or let us know what stories you'd like us to cover.Follow Kurt on his social channels:Answers to the most-asked CyberGuy questions:New from Kurt:Copyright 2025 CyberGuy.com. All rights reserved. Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson is an award-winning tech journalist who has a deep love of technology, gear and gadgets that make life better with his contributions for Fox News & FOX Business beginning mornings on "FOX & Friends." Got a tech question? Get Kurt’s free CyberGuy Newsletter, share your voice, a story idea or comment at CyberGuy.com.

Data-based profiling tools are being used by the UK Ministry of Justice (MoJ) to algorithmically “predict” people’s risk of committing criminal offences, but pressure group Statewatch says the use of historically biased data will further entrench structural discrimination. Documents obtained by Statewatch via a Freedom of Information (FoI) campaign reveal the MoJ is already using one flawed algorithm to “predict” people’s risk of reoffending, and is actively developing another system to “predict” who will commit murder. While authorities deploying predictive policing tools say they can be used to more efficiently direct resources, critics argue that, in practice, they are used to repeatedly target poor and racialised communities, as these groups have historically been “over-policed” and are therefore over-represented in police datasets. This then creates a negative feedback loop, where these “so-called predictions” lead to further over-policing of certain groups and areas, thereby reinforcing and exacerbating the pre-existing discrimination as increasing amounts of data are collected. Tracing the historical proliferation of predictive policing systems in their 2018 book Police: A field guide, authors David Correia and Tyler Wall argue that such tools provide “seemingly objective data” for law enforcement authorities to continue engaging in discriminatory policing practices, “but in a manner that appears free from racial profiling”. They added it therefore “shouldn’t be a surprise that predictive policing locates the violence of the future in the poor of the present”. Computer Weekly contacted the MoJ about how it is dealing with the propensity of predictive policing systems to further entrench structural discrimination, but received no response on this point. Known as the Offender Assessment System (OASys), the first crime prediction tool was initially developed by the Home Office over three pilot studies before being rolled out across the prison and probation system of England and Wales between 2001 and 2005. According to His Majesty’s Prison and Probation Service (HMPPS), OASys “identifies and classifies offending-related needs” and assesses “the risk of harm offenders pose to themselves and others”, using machine learning techniques so the system “learns” from the data inputs to adapt the way it functions. Structural racism and other forms of systemic bias may be coded into OASys risk scores – both directly and indirectly Sobanan Narenthiran, Breakthrough Social Enterprise The risk scores generated by the algorithms are then used to make a wide range of decisions that can severely affect people’s lives. This includes decisions about their bail and sentencing, the type of prison they’ll be sent to, and whether they’ll be able to access education or rehabilitation programmes while incarcerated. The documents obtained by Statewatch show the OASys tool is being used to profile thousands of prisoners in England and Wales every week. In just one week, between 6 and 12 January 2025, for example, the tool was used to complete a total of 9,420 reoffending risk assessments – a rate of more than 1,300 per day. As of January this year, the system’s database holds over seven million risk scores setting out people’s alleged risk of reoffending, which includes completed assessments and those in progress. Commenting on OASys, Sobanan Narenthiran – a former prisoner and now co-CEO of Breakthrough Social Enterprise, an organisation that “supports people at risk or with experience of the criminal justice system to enter the world of technology” – told Statewatch that “structural racism and other forms of systemic bias may be coded into OASys risk scores – both directly and indirectly”. He further argued that information entered in OASys is likely to be “heavily influenced by systemic issues like biased policing and over-surveillance of certain communities”, noting, for example, that: “Black and other racialised individuals may be more frequently stopped, searched, arrested and charged due to structural inequalities in law enforcement.  “As a result, they may appear ‘higher risk’ in the system, not because of any greater actual risk, but because the data reflects these inequalities. This is a classic case of ‘garbage in, garbage out’.” Computer Weekly contacted the MoJ about how the department is ensuring accuracy in its decision-making, given the sheer volume of algorithmic assessments it is making every day, but received no direct response on this point. A spokesperson said that practitioners verify information and follow detailed scoring guidance for consistency. While the second crime prediction tool is currently in development, the intention is to algorithmically identify those most at risk of committing murder by pulling a wide variety of data about them from different sources, such as the probation service and specific police forces involved in the project. Statewatch says the types of information processed could include names, dates of birth, gender and ethnicity, and a number that identifies people on the Police National Computer (PNC). Originally called the “homicide prediction project”, the initiative has since been renamed to “sharing data to improve risk assessment”, and could be used to profile convicted and non-convicted people alike. According to a data sharing agreement between the MoJ and Greater Manchester Police (GMP) obtained by Statewatch, for example, the types of data being shared can include the age a person had their first contact with the police, and the age they were first the victim of a crime, including for domestic violence. Listed under “special categories of personal data”, the agreement also envisages the sharing of “health markers which are expected to have significant predictive power”. This can include data related to mental health, addiction, suicide, vulnerability, self-harm and disability. Statewatch highlighted how data from people not convicted of any criminal offence will be used as part of the project. In both cases, Statewatch says using data from “institutionally racist” organisations like police forces and the MoJ will only work to “reinforce and magnify” the structural discrimination that underpins the UK’s criminal justice system. Time and again, research shows that algorithmic systems for ‘predicting’ crime are inherently flawed Sofia Lyall, Statewatch “The Ministry of Justice’s attempt to build this murder prediction system is the latest chilling and dystopian example of the government’s intent to develop so-called crime ‘prediction’ systems,” said Statewatch researcher Sofia Lyall. “Like other systems of its kind, it will code in bias towards racialised and low-income communities. Building an automated tool to profile people as violent criminals is deeply wrong, and using such sensitive data on mental health, addiction and disability is highly intrusive and alarming.” Lyall added: “Time and again, research shows that algorithmic systems for ‘predicting’ crime are inherently flawed.” Statewatch also noted that Black people in particular are significantly over-represented in the data held by the MoJ, as are people of all ethnicities from more deprived areas. According to an official evaluation of the risk scores produced by OASys from 2015, the system has discrepancies in accuracy based on gender, age and ethnicity, with the risk scores generated being disproportionately less accurate for racialised people than white people, and especially so for Black and mixed-race people. “Relative predictive validity was greater for female than male offenders, for White offenders than offenders of Asian, Black and Mixed ethnicity, and for older than younger offenders,” it said. “After controlling for differences in risk profiles, lower validity for all Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic (BME) groups (non-violent reoffending) and Black and Mixed ethnicity offenders (violent reoffending) was the greatest concern.” A number of prisoners affected by the OASys algorithm have also told Statewatch about the impacts of biased or inaccurate data. Several minoritised ethnic prisoners, for example, said their assessors entered a discriminatory and false “gangs” label in their OASys reports without evidence, a decision they say was based on racist assumptions. Speaking with a researcher from the University of Birmingham about the impact of inaccurate data in OASys, another man serving a life sentence likened it to “a small snowball running downhill”. The prisoner said: “Each turn it picks up more and more snow (inaccurate entries) until eventually you are left with this massive snowball which bears no semblance to the original small ball of snow. In other words, I no longer exist. I have become a construct of their imagination. It is the ultimate act of dehumanisation.” Narenthiran also described how, despite known issues with the system’s accuracy, it is difficult to challenge any incorrect data contained in OASys reports: “To do this, I needed to modify information recorded in an OASys assessment, and it’s a frustrating and often opaque process. “In many cases, individuals are either unaware of what’s been written about them or are not given meaningful opportunities to review and respond to the assessment before it’s finalised. Even when concerns are raised, they’re frequently dismissed or ignored unless there is strong legal advocacy involved.” While the murder prediction tool is still in development, Computer Weekly contacted the MoJ for further information about both systems – including what means of redress the department envisages people being able to use to challenge decisions made about them when, for example, information is inaccurate. A spokesperson for the department said that continuous improvement, research and validation ensure the integrity and quality of these tools, and that ethical implications such as fairness and potential data bias are considered whenever new tools or research projects are developed. They added that neither the murder prediction tool nor OASys use ethnicity as a direct predictor, and that if individuals are not satisfied with the outcome of a formal complaint to HMPSS, they can write to the Prison and Probation Ombudsman. Regarding OASys, they added there are five risk predictor tools that make up the system, which are revalidated to effectively predict reoffending risk. Commenting on the murder prediction tool specifically, the MoJ said: “This project is being conducted for research purposes only. It has been designed using existing data held by HM Prison and Probation Service and police forces on convicted offenders to help us better understand the risk of people on probation going on to commit serious violence. A report will be published in due course.” It added the project aims to improve risk assessment of serious crime and keep the public safe through better analysis of existing crime and risk assessment data, and that while a specific predictive tool will not be developed for operational use, the findings of the project may inform future work on other tools. The MoJ also insisted that only data about people with at least one criminal conviction has been used so far. Despite serious concerns around the system, the MoJ continues to use OASys assessments across the prison and probation services. In response to Statewatch’s FoI campaign, the MoJ confirmed that “the HMPPS Assess Risks, Needs and Strengths (ARNS) project is developing a new digital tool to replace the OASys tool”. An early prototype of the new system has been in the pilot phase since December 2024, “with a view to a national roll-out in 2026”. ARNS is “being built in-house by a team from [Ministry of] Justice Digital who are liaising with Capita, who currently provide technical support for OASys”. The government has also launched an “independent sentencing review” looking at how to “harness new technology to manage offenders outside prison”, including the use of “predictive” and profiling risk assessment tools, as well as electronic tagging. Statewatch has also called for a halt to the development of the crime prediction tool. “Instead of throwing money towards developing dodgy and racist AI and algorithms, the government must invest in genuinely supportive welfare services. Making welfare cuts while investing in techno-solutionist ‘quick fixes’ will only further undermine people’s safety and well-being,” said Lyall. Read more about law enforcement technology  Met Police challenged on claim LFR supported by ‘majority of Lewisham residents’: A community impact assessment for the Met Police’s deployment of live facial-recognition tech in Lewisham brings into question the force’s previous claims to Computer Weekly that its use of the technology is supported by ‘the majority of residents’. AI surveillance towers place migrants in ‘even greater jeopardy’: The use of autonomous surveillance towers throughout the English coast forces migrants into increasingly dangerous routes and contributes to their criminalisation. Ban predictive policing and facial recognition, says civil society: A coalition of civil society groups is calling for an outright ban on predictive policing and biometric surveillance in the UK.

With so many smartwatches on the market, finding the right one can feel overwhelming. While Apple watches are often seen as the gold standard for smartwatches, not everyone needs their full suite of features, especially if you're on a budget.The Apple Watch started out as a sleek fitness tracker and has evolved into an essential companion for iPhone users. Apple's smartwatches have an arsenal of convenient capabilities like supplying your boarding pass for a flight, identifying a song playing nearby, opening your garage door, and alerting you when it's about to rain. Not to mention, it's an expansive health monitoring system that can check your heart rate or guide you through a meditation.Based on our extensive hands-on testing, the Apple Watch Ultra 2 is our top pick for the best Apple smartwatch due to its powerful processor, long battery life, large screen, and more.  What is the best Apple Watch right now?Based on my years of testing, my pick for the best Apple Watch overall is the Apple Watch Ultra 2, thanks to its large screen, 24-hour battery life, and emergency siren. However, the new Apple Watch Series 10 is also a great contender for many people.Also: The best iPhones of 2025: Which model should you buy? Sort by All The best Apple Watches of 2025 Show less The Apple Watch Ultra 2 offers more exclusive features than any other Apple Watch model we've seen. The most notable difference between the Ultra and other Apple Watch models is its larger, brighter, and flatter screen. The screen is covered by a sapphire crystal face and surrounded by a titanium case to increase the amount of wear and tear the watch can handle. It's also IPX6 dust resistant, works underwater up to 328 feet (100 meters), and has military-grade (MIL-STD 810H) certification for ruggedness. Plus, the Ultra 2 can handle high altitudes, shocks, vibrations, and temperatures ranging from 4 degrees to 130 degrees Fahrenheit.Review: Apple Watch Ultra 2ZDNET contributing writer Matthew Miller tried out the Apple Watch Ultra 2 when it was released last year, and said he recommended the watch "for its long battery life, brighter display, expanded connectivity, and new watch bands" while also being impressed by the improved mental health functionality via the Mindfulness app.The Ultra 2's features include a programmable Action Button with a variety of workout and adventuring functions (including activating the flashlight), dual-frequency GPS that can overcome interference from mountains and skyscrapers, and louder dual-integrated speakers for taking phone calls, playing music, or interacting with Siri. Many Amazon reviewers say that this is the best Apple Watch model they have ever used, particularly noting the watch's quality and large 49mm screen with 3,000 nits of brightness. Beyond that, the Ultra offers one key addition to the Apple Watch Series 9 lineup: an emergency siren (activated by holding down the Action Button), which belts out an 86-decibel sound pattern that can be heard up to 600 feet (180 meters) away. This can be useful in a variety of scenarios, including to scare off an attacker or to alert others to your location if you're lost or hurt in the outdoors alone. At the time of publication, the Apple Watch Ultra 2 with GPS and cellular costs $800 on Amazon.Apple Watch Ultra 2 tech specs: Display Size: 49mm | Battery life: Up to 72 hours | Storage capacity: 64GB | Features: Sturdy titanium case and sapphire crystal face, enhanced safety features including a built-in siren, dual-frequency GPS, works up to 328 feet underwater Health & wellness 10 Build quality/durability 10 Advanced features 8 Applications 10 Core functionality 10 Pros Larger, brighter, more useful screen Over 24-hour battery life Super durable Emergency Siren Cons Too big for small wrists Double the price of the base Apple Watch Series 9 Apple Watch Ultra 2 Best Apple Watch overall 4.8 / 5 Score The Apple Watch Ultra 2 offers more exclusive features than any other Apple Watch model we've seen. The most notable difference between the Ultra and other Apple Watch models is its larger, brighter, and flatter screen. The screen is covered by a sapphire crystal face and surrounded by a titanium case to increase the amount of wear and tear the watch can handle. It's also IPX6 dust resistant, works underwater up to 328 feet (100 meters), and has military-grade (MIL-STD 810H) certification for ruggedness. Plus, the Ultra 2 can handle high altitudes, shocks, vibrations, and temperatures ranging from 4 degrees to 130 degrees Fahrenheit.Review: Apple Watch Ultra 2ZDNET contributing writer Matthew Miller tried out the Apple Watch Ultra 2 when it was released last year, and said he recommended the watch "for its long battery life, brighter display, expanded connectivity, and new watch bands" while also being impressed by the improved mental health functionality via the Mindfulness app.The Ultra 2's features include a programmable Action Button with a variety of workout and adventuring functions (including activating the flashlight), dual-frequency GPS that can overcome interference from mountains and skyscrapers, and louder dual-integrated speakers for taking phone calls, playing music, or interacting with Siri. Many Amazon reviewers say that this is the best Apple Watch model they have ever used, particularly noting the watch's quality and large 49mm screen with 3,000 nits of brightness. Beyond that, the Ultra offers one key addition to the Apple Watch Series 9 lineup: an emergency siren (activated by holding down the Action Button), which belts out an 86-decibel sound pattern that can be heard up to 600 feet (180 meters) away. This can be useful in a variety of scenarios, including to scare off an attacker or to alert others to your location if you're lost or hurt in the outdoors alone. At the time of publication, the Apple Watch Ultra 2 with GPS and cellular costs $800 on Amazon.Apple Watch Ultra 2 tech specs: Display Size: 49mm | Battery life: Up to 72 hours | Storage capacity: 64GB | Features: Sturdy titanium case and sapphire crystal face, enhanced safety features including a built-in siren, dual-frequency GPS, works up to 328 feet underwater Read More Show Expert Take Show less Show less The Apple Watch Series 10 debuted in September with new features that make it an upgrade from the Series 9. Most notably, there is a new sleep apnea tracking feature that works through the watch's accelerometer, which monitors movements associated with respiratory pattern interruptions and is tracked by Apple's new Breathing Disturbances metric. There is also a new water depth gauge, which measures almost 20 feet (up to six meters) beneath the water's surface, and a water temperature sensor to benefit swimmers, surfers, and snorkelers. As far as the build of the watch goes, there is an improved and bigger display (42mm and 46mm sizes) thanks to the wide-angle OLED display that offers up to 40% brighter viewing angle compared to the Series 9. The Series 10 is also 10% thinner and lighter which makes it more comfortable to wear, especially while sleeping.If you want the latest health sensors and safety features, great battery life (especially if you want to do sleep tracking), and you don't need the extreme features in the Ultra 2, then you can save a lot of money by going with the aluminum model of the Apple Watch Series 10 starting at $399. I advise you skip the tougher titanium finish on the Series 10 that starts at $699 and go for the Ultra at only $100 more, which offers lots of extra features -- unless you have a smaller wrist. Then I'd suggest sticking with the Series 10. Apple Watch Series 10 tech specs: Display size: 42mm or 46mm | Battery life: 36 hours standby | Storage capacity: 64GB | Features: New features include a bigger display, thinner design, sleep apnea tracking, water depth gauge, and a new titanium finish Health & wellness 10 Build quality/durability 9 Advanced features 6 Applications 10 Core functionality 9 Pros Thinner design and bigger display Sleep apnea tracking New Titanium finish Cons Cellular connectivity costs extra Less durable than the Ultra 2 Apple Watch Series 10 Best Apple Watch for most people 4.4 / 5 Score The Apple Watch Series 10 debuted in September with new features that make it an upgrade from the Series 9. Most notably, there is a new sleep apnea tracking feature that works through the watch's accelerometer, which monitors movements associated with respiratory pattern interruptions and is tracked by Apple's new Breathing Disturbances metric. There is also a new water depth gauge, which measures almost 20 feet (up to six meters) beneath the water's surface, and a water temperature sensor to benefit swimmers, surfers, and snorkelers. As far as the build of the watch goes, there is an improved and bigger display (42mm and 46mm sizes) thanks to the wide-angle OLED display that offers up to 40% brighter viewing angle compared to the Series 9. The Series 10 is also 10% thinner and lighter which makes it more comfortable to wear, especially while sleeping.If you want the latest health sensors and safety features, great battery life (especially if you want to do sleep tracking), and you don't need the extreme features in the Ultra 2, then you can save a lot of money by going with the aluminum model of the Apple Watch Series 10 starting at $399. I advise you skip the tougher titanium finish on the Series 10 that starts at $699 and go for the Ultra at only $100 more, which offers lots of extra features -- unless you have a smaller wrist. Then I'd suggest sticking with the Series 10. Apple Watch Series 10 tech specs: Display size: 42mm or 46mm | Battery life: 36 hours standby | Storage capacity: 64GB | Features: New features include a bigger display, thinner design, sleep apnea tracking, water depth gauge, and a new titanium finish Read More Show Expert Take Show less Show less View now at Amazon What I found amazing about the Apple Watch SE (2nd gen) is how many of the same health and safety features from the Series 8 and the Ultra it includes for only $249. It's easier to talk about what's not included in the SE -- it doesn't track blood oxygen, do ECG heart checks, or check your temperature. And while the face looks just like the Series 8, the screen is actually about 20% smaller and doesn't have an always-on display.Still, it includes nearly everything else, and the cellular connectivity is only a $50 add-on for the SE (compared to a $100 add-on for the Series 8). Like the Ultra and the Series 8, adding a cellular connection will also cost you about $10 per month with your wireless carrier. Even if you go with the cellular version and opt for the larger 44mm Apple Watch SE over the smaller 40mm version, you'll still only top out at $329.Also: Apple Watch SE (2022) vs Apple Watch SE (2020): Should you upgrade?That makes the SE 2nd gen a great smartwatch to give to someone who doesn't have or regularly use an iPhone, such as a child or an elderly family member, using Apple's Family Setup. With cellular connectivity, they can use the Apple Watch to make and receive phone calls, get text messages, dictate text replies, and access online info like the weather. This smartwatch is ideal for those who'd like the convenience of messaging at their fingertips without being anchored to tech 24/7.You can even set up this smartwatch from your iPhone as long as the wearer is in your Apple family group. If you are connecting an elderly relative who has health issues, the added health sensors in the Series 8 might make it worth the peace of mind to upgrade. Customers who have reviewed the watch also agree that it offers excellent value for the price, especially if you are new to the Apple Watch family.Apple Watch SE tech specs: Display size: 40mm or 44mm | Battery life: Up to 18 hours | Storage capacity: 32GB | Features: Most affordable Apple Watch, family set up for kids and older adults, health and location tracking, and fall and crash detection Pros Family Setup for kids and older adults Health and location tracking Fall and crash detection Very affordable Cons Not as durable as other Apple Watch models Cellular connection requires a monthly fee What I found amazing about the Apple Watch SE (2nd gen) is how many of the same health and safety features from the Series 8 and the Ultra it includes for only $249. It's easier to talk about what's not included in the SE -- it doesn't track blood oxygen, do ECG heart checks, or check your temperature. And while the face looks just like the Series 8, the screen is actually about 20% smaller and doesn't have an always-on display.Still, it includes nearly everything else, and the cellular connectivity is only a $50 add-on for the SE (compared to a $100 add-on for the Series 8). Like the Ultra and the Series 8, adding a cellular connection will also cost you about $10 per month with your wireless carrier. Even if you go with the cellular version and opt for the larger 44mm Apple Watch SE over the smaller 40mm version, you'll still only top out at $329.Also: Apple Watch SE (2022) vs Apple Watch SE (2020): Should you upgrade?That makes the SE 2nd gen a great smartwatch to give to someone who doesn't have or regularly use an iPhone, such as a child or an elderly family member, using Apple's Family Setup. With cellular connectivity, they can use the Apple Watch to make and receive phone calls, get text messages, dictate text replies, and access online info like the weather. This smartwatch is ideal for those who'd like the convenience of messaging at their fingertips without being anchored to tech 24/7.You can even set up this smartwatch from your iPhone as long as the wearer is in your Apple family group. If you are connecting an elderly relative who has health issues, the added health sensors in the Series 8 might make it worth the peace of mind to upgrade. Customers who have reviewed the watch also agree that it offers excellent value for the price, especially if you are new to the Apple Watch family.Apple Watch SE tech specs: Display size: 40mm or 44mm | Battery life: Up to 18 hours | Storage capacity: 32GB | Features: Most affordable Apple Watch, family set up for kids and older adults, health and location tracking, and fall and crash detection Read More Show Expert Take Show less Show less View now at Amazon When it first launched in the fall of 2021, the Apple Watch Series 7 introduced key upgrades, including a 20% larger screen, fast charging (0% to 80% in 45 minutes with a USB-C cable), a more durable crystal face that's 50% thicker than the previous model, and IPX6 dust resistance. (It's worth noting that those features still aren't available on the Apple Watch SE 2nd Gen.) Review: Apple Watch Series 7With the SE now holding down the entry-level Apple Watch market, it's best to think about the perks of the Series 7 in comparison to the SE. If you just want a low-cost entry into the Apple Watch ecosystem and an easy purchase, then you can buy a new SE and quickly get started. A new Apple Watch Series 7 costs nearly the same price as the Series 8, so it's much better to get the Series 8. However, you can find a refurbished Series 7 on Amazon, or for $200-$250 on places like BackMarket and RefurbMe.  Overall, the reviews from customers who bought a previously owned Apple Watch Series 7 were positive, with no complaints about battery life or the condition of the watch.There are really only a few great reasons to buy the Series 7 at this point. The first is if you want the additional health features for an elderly or at-risk relative or if you want the extra durability for a watch you're giving to a kid. The other big reason to buy the Series 7 is that it comes in two really nice colors -- green and blue -- that Apple no longer offers for the Series 8. But again, if you're going to get a Series 7, I'd recommend getting a refurbished one.Apple Watch Series 7 tech specs: Display size: 41mm or 45mm | Battery life: Up to 18 hours | Storage: 32GB | Features: Large display, fast charging, health-focused features, and more durable than the SE Pros Comes in unique blue and green colors Good deal if you buy used or refurbished Has most of the latest health features Water, dust, and crack-resistant Cons Shorter battery life than the Series 8 or Series 9 Display isn't as bright as the Series 9 When it first launched in the fall of 2021, the Apple Watch Series 7 introduced key upgrades, including a 20% larger screen, fast charging (0% to 80% in 45 minutes with a USB-C cable), a more durable crystal face that's 50% thicker than the previous model, and IPX6 dust resistance. (It's worth noting that those features still aren't available on the Apple Watch SE 2nd Gen.) Review: Apple Watch Series 7With the SE now holding down the entry-level Apple Watch market, it's best to think about the perks of the Series 7 in comparison to the SE. If you just want a low-cost entry into the Apple Watch ecosystem and an easy purchase, then you can buy a new SE and quickly get started. A new Apple Watch Series 7 costs nearly the same price as the Series 8, so it's much better to get the Series 8. However, you can find a refurbished Series 7 on Amazon, or for $200-$250 on places like BackMarket and RefurbMe.  Overall, the reviews from customers who bought a previously owned Apple Watch Series 7 were positive, with no complaints about battery life or the condition of the watch.There are really only a few great reasons to buy the Series 7 at this point. The first is if you want the additional health features for an elderly or at-risk relative or if you want the extra durability for a watch you're giving to a kid. The other big reason to buy the Series 7 is that it comes in two really nice colors -- green and blue -- that Apple no longer offers for the Series 8. But again, if you're going to get a Series 7, I'd recommend getting a refurbished one.Apple Watch Series 7 tech specs: Display size: 41mm or 45mm | Battery life: Up to 18 hours | Storage: 32GB | Features: Large display, fast charging, health-focused features, and more durable than the SE Read More Show Expert Take Show less Show less View now at Apple If you're looking to splurge on a designer smartwatch, the Apple Watch Hermès is a chic option for luxe and label lovers. The watch itself is an Apple Watch Series 9, but you'll get exclusive Hermès watch faces and different case etchings. What you're really paying for, however, are the Hermès bands, like the Noir/Gold Twill Jump Single Tour.  There are plenty of unique and exclusive bands to choose from, like the Kilim Single Tour in signature orange or the Torsade Double Tour, which wraps around your wrist twice.The versions of this watch that Apple sells no longer include options for the classic Hermès leather bands after Apple eliminated leather from its products in 2023. However, Hermès sells leather bands for its edition of the Apple Watch on its site.As you might expect, the price range for this Apple Watch model will cost you a lot more for the designer brand name. This model ranges from $1,249 to $1,349. All models include cellular -- activation and monthly plan not included -- and Apple's higher-end stainless steel casings that are also offered on the Apple Watch Series 9. Apple Watch Hermès tech specs: Display size: 41mm or 45mm | Battery life: Up to 36 hours | Storage: 64GB | Features: Stylish and quality bands, exclusive Hermès watch faces, and case etchings on display Pros High-quality, stylish bands Exclusive Hermès watch faces Includes an extra Sports Band in the box Cons Expensive for what you get Same features as regular Series 9 If you're looking to splurge on a designer smartwatch, the Apple Watch Hermès is a chic option for luxe and label lovers. The watch itself is an Apple Watch Series 9, but you'll get exclusive Hermès watch faces and different case etchings. What you're really paying for, however, are the Hermès bands, like the Noir/Gold Twill Jump Single Tour.  There are plenty of unique and exclusive bands to choose from, like the Kilim Single Tour in signature orange or the Torsade Double Tour, which wraps around your wrist twice.The versions of this watch that Apple sells no longer include options for the classic Hermès leather bands after Apple eliminated leather from its products in 2023. However, Hermès sells leather bands for its edition of the Apple Watch on its site.As you might expect, the price range for this Apple Watch model will cost you a lot more for the designer brand name. This model ranges from $1,249 to $1,349. All models include cellular -- activation and monthly plan not included -- and Apple's higher-end stainless steel casings that are also offered on the Apple Watch Series 9. Apple Watch Hermès tech specs: Display size: 41mm or 45mm | Battery life: Up to 36 hours | Storage: 64GB | Features: Stylish and quality bands, exclusive Hermès watch faces, and case etchings on display Read More Show Expert Take Show less What are the tariffs in the U.S.?The recent U.S. tariffs on imports from countries like China, Vietnam, and India aim to boost domestic manufacturing but are likely to drive up prices on consumer electronics. Products like smartphones, laptops, and TVs may become more expensive as companies rethink global supply chains and weigh the cost of shifting production.Headphones and wearable devices, which are predominantly manufactured in these regions, are now subject to tariffs as high as 54% on Chinese imports and 46% on Vietnamese goods. As a result, consumers may see price increases of approximately 20% on these items. Manufacturers are exploring options like relocating production to countries with lower tariffs, but such shifts are complex and may not provide immediate relief. In the short term, shoppers should anticipate higher costs for headphones and wearables due to these trade policies.What is the best Apple Watch model? The Apple Watch Ultra 2 is the model with the most cutting-edge features, while the Apple Watch Series 10 is the one that has all the latest health features --including the new sleep apnea tracking -- at a mainstream price ($399). There are a few other options as well, so here's a chart that breaks down the features of each model.  Apple Watch modelPriceWhere to buyDisplay sizeBattery lifeStorage capacityChipApple Watch Ultra 2$799Apple, Amazon, Best Buy49 mm72 hours64GBS9 SiPApple Watch Series 10$399Apple, Amazon, Best Buy42mm or 46 mm36 hours64GBS10 SiPApple Watch SE$249Apple, Amazon, Best Buy40 or 44mm18 hours32GBS8 SiPApple Watch Series 7$356Apple, BackMarket41 or 45mm18 hours32GBS7 SiPApple Watch Hermès$1,249Apple, Hermès41 or 45mm36 hours64GBS9 SiP Show more Which Apple Watch model is right for you? Having trouble deciding between Apple Watch models? Here's a quick summary of the primary reason to buy each one.Choose this Apple Watch...If you want...Apple Watch Ultra 2All the best smartwatch features Apple has to offer. While the Ultra 2 is especially loaded with fitness and durability features for athletes and adventurers, its larger and brighter display, better battery life, and emergency siren will appeal to many others as well.Apple Watch Series 10All the latest health and fitness features at an approachable price. It tracks heart health, breathing, sleep apnea, activity (of course), and fitness. It's thinner and lighter and now has a larger display.Apple Watch SEA more budget-friendly Apple Watch. This includes all the basic features at a lower price and is a great pick for first-time Apple Watch buyers or to give to a kid or an elderly family member since you can configure it using Family Setup even if they don't have an iPhone.Apple Watch Series 7An Apple Watch in unique blue or green colors. The Apple Watch Series 7 is for sale in many places, and you can get a refurbished model for $200 to $275. The best reason to get it is the fact that it comes in two unique colors you can't get in the Series 9.Apple Watch HermèsAn Apple Watch for dressing up as well as working out. For those who love the French luxury brand, this special edition of the Apple Watch features premium bands and exclusive watch faces for those who view their timepiece as a fashion accessory. Show more Factors to consider when choosing the best Apple Watch While all the Apple Watches on this list have a slew of health-tracking features and other useful apps, their differences are what you need to consider before buying one, including: Display size: Apple Watch displays now come in essentially three different sizes (40/41, 44/45, and 49). Depending on the size of your wrist and how much you want to interact with the watch for quick actions, the display size will be a big factor in determining which model makes the most sense.Features: Apple methodically adds more and more new features to the Apple Watch each year, so we compared safety features, health sensors, band options, battery life, and other useful options.Pricing: Each Apple Watch has a number of different variations, so pricing can vary widely -- especially based on which band you pick. We included budget-worthy options below $250, as well as the more premium options that are over $1,000. Show more How we test smartwatches All of the Apple Watches included in this list were chosen based on how they performed when tested in the real world by the ZDNET team. When we test smartwatches, we typically follow the same routine for each one to see which performs best.Daily wear: We wear the smartwatch as our primary watch, with communications, applications, and other elements being tested as if it were our only smartwatch.Application selection and performance: One aspect that makes smartwatches different than standard watches is the support for applications. We load up the watch with apps and then test the performance and functionality of those applications. For example, Apple particularly excels in the area of third-party application support.Workouts: Smartwatch makers have embraced health and fitness so we take smartwatches out for running with GPS, rowing on the Hydrow, biking on trails, and walking with the family. GPS and heart rate data is tracked and then we evaluate the accuracy against proven GPS sports watches.Sleep and activity tracking: Sleep tracking has improved with smartwatches over time and we evaluate and compare them to smart rings and other watches. Nighttime is also a good time to charge your smartwatch, so you may choose not to use your watch to track sleep so your watch can serve faithfully all day and into the night.For a deeper look into our testing process, check out our comprehensive smartwatch testing methodology. Show more FAQs on Apple Watches Do you need an iPhone to use an Apple Watch? Yes, you need an iPhone to set up an Apple Watch. However, with all the models on this list, you can use the Family Setup option to have one iPhone set up watches for multiple members in your Apple family group -- even if they don't have an iPhone. You cannot use an iPad, a Mac, or a non-Apple smartphone to set up an Apple Watch. Show more What does the Apple Watch do? Fundamentally, all Apple Watches can track your steps and fitness data, display notifications from your iPhone, show basic information like weather, start timers, send and receive text messages, answer phone calls, and download useful apps. The latest versions have additional features and functionality, including sleep tracking, advanced health monitoring, car crash detection, and international emergency calling. Show more Are older versions of the Apple Watch still worth buying? Yes, many older Apple Watch are available to buy refurbished at places like BackMarket and are still some of the best smartwatches on the market. Just keep in mind that Apple releases a new Apple Watch each year, so a refurbished model that is already dated could end up being four or five generations behind the latest innovations during the time you own it. Show more What are some features to look for in the best Apple Watch models? The most important features to look for in the best Apple Watch models include advanced health sensors (ECG, blood oxygen, wrist temperature, etc.), connectivity options (is cellular included or extra, if you want the watch to work when an iPhone isn't nearby), battery life, and durability (water resistance, dust resistance, and a crystal face to resist cracking). Show more Which is the best Apple Watch for fitness tracking? The best Apple Watch for fitness tracking is the Apple Watch Series 9 or the Apple Watch Ultra 2, which both come equipped with the widest variety of health sensors, including ECG, sleep tracking, heart and breathing functions, wrist temperature, and more. Show more Is the Apple Watch Ultra 2 worth the extra cost for outdoor enthusiasts? If you're someone who spends time hiking, doing triathlons, and involved in outdoor activities in extreme temperatures, rugged conditions, and lots of dust and water, the Apple Watch Ultra 2 may be worth the extra cost. Its design makes it more durable and water-resistant (up to 100m) than the other Apple Watch models, and it includes an Action Button for fine-tuning workouts and hikes. Show more What Apple Watch is best for kids? While it's not made specifically with kids in mind, the Apple Watch SE is an excellent smartwatch for older kids with standout features plus parental controls. Along with enabling phone calls and text messages, the Apple Watch SE also tracks your child's sleep, has state-of-the-art health trackers, features an SOS capability, and pairs with thousands of apps.In addition, you can use Apple's Family Setup to check your kid's location, set up shared contacts, implement parental controls like screen time usage, and more. Your child doesn't even need their own iPhone to have an Apple Watch -- they can pair it up with yours, so you're fully in control.  Show more Does Apple Watch work with Android? You cannot use an Android phone to set up and pair with an Apple Watch, and there are no good workarounds for that. However, if you have an Android phone, there are several smartwatches you can choose from that offer most of the same features as an Apple Watch. The ones below are smartwatches that ZDNET has reviewed and rated well in our testing. Show more Other Apple Watches we've tested ZDNET’s Smartwatch Guide Smartwatch Roundups Smartwatches Reviewed & Compared Apple Watches Explained ZDNET Recommends

Samsung is bringing back the Galaxy S24 with a new low price and a fresh warranty.

The big picture: As artificial intelligence and high-performance computing continue to drive demand for increasingly powerful data centers, the industry faces a growing challenge: how to cool ever-denser racks of servers without consuming unsustainable amounts of energy and water. Traditional air-based cooling systems, once adequate for earlier generations of server hardware, are now being pushed to their limits by the intense thermal output of modern AI infrastructure. Nowhere is this shift more evident than in Nvidia's latest offerings. The company's GB200 NVL72 and GB300 NVL72 rack-scale systems represent a significant leap in computational density, packing dozens of GPUs and CPUs into each rack to meet the performance demands of trillion-parameter AI models and large-scale inference tasks. But this level of performance comes at a steep cost. While a typical data center rack consumes between seven and 20 kilowatts (with high-end GPU racks averaging 40 to 60 kilowatts), Nvidia's new systems require between 120 and 140 kilowatts per rack. That's more than seven times the power draw of conventional setups. This dramatic rise in power density has rendered traditional air-based cooling methods inadequate for such high-performance clusters. Air simply cannot remove heat fast enough to prevent overheating, especially as racks grow increasingly compact. To address this, Nvidia has adopted direct-to-chip liquid cooling – a system that circulates coolant through cold plates mounted directly onto the hottest components, such as GPUs and CPUs. This approach transfers heat far more efficiently than air, enabling denser, more powerful configurations. Unlike traditional evaporative cooling, which consumes large volumes of water to chill air or water circulated through a data center, Nvidia's approach uses a closed-loop liquid system. In this setup, coolant continuously cycles through the system without evaporating, virtually eliminating water loss and significantly improving water efficiency. According to Nvidia, its liquid cooling design is up to 25 times more energy efficient and 300 times more water efficient than conventional cooling methods – a claim with substantial implications for both operational costs and environmental sustainability. // Related Stories The architecture behind these systems is sophisticated. Heat absorbed by the coolant is transferred via rack-level liquid-to-liquid heat exchangers – known as Coolant Distribution Units – to the facility's broader cooling infrastructure. These CDUs, developed by partners like CoolIT and Motivair, can handle up to two megawatts of cooling capacity, supporting the immense thermal loads produced by high-density racks. Additionally, warm water cooling reduces reliance on mechanical chillers, further lowering both energy consumption and water usage. However, the transition to direct liquid cooling presents challenges. Data centers are traditionally built with modularity and serviceability in mind, using hot-swappable components for quick maintenance. Fully sealed liquid cooling systems complicate this model as breaking a hermetic seal to replace a server or GPU risks compromising the entire loop. To mitigate these risks, direct-to-chip systems use quick-disconnect fittings with dripless seals, balancing serviceability with leak prevention. Still, deploying liquid cooling at scale often requires a substantial redesign of a facility's physical infrastructure, demanding a significant upfront investment. Despite these hurdles, the performance gains offered by Nvidia's Blackwell-based systems are convincing operators to move forward with liquid cooling retrofits. Nvidia has partnered with Schneider Electric to develop reference architectures that accelerate the deployment of high-density, liquid-cooled clusters. These designs, featuring integrated CDUs and advanced thermal management, support up to 132 kilowatts per rack.

Tom Hanks returns to the seas in World War II for another battle in the Greyhound sequel. Per Deadline, Hanks will reprise his role as Commander Ernie Krause in the Greyhound sequel for Apple. Aaron Schneider returns to direct from a screenplay penned by Hanks. Gary Goetzman, Hanks’ partner at Playtone, will produce. Recommended Videos The next Greyhound movie will follow Krause and his crew after Normandy as they head to the Pacific Theater to help shift the war in favor of the Allies. Production is expected to start in Sydney, Australia, in January 2026. Related Several cast members are currently negotiating to return, including Stephen Graham, who played Lieutenant Commander Charlie Cole. While the deals have not been finalized, Deadline notes that the expectations are “high” that the main cast will return. In Greyhound, Hanks plays Krause, a Navy veteran who becomes a first-time captain of the USS Keeling, radio call sign “Greyhound.” Greyhound and three other destroyers must escort 37 ships carrying thousands of soldiers through the Black Pit, a treacherous stretch of water leading to England. With no air support and Nazi U-boats lurking, Krause must do whatever it takes to guide these ships across the Atlantic during WWII. The movie was inspired by events during the Battle of the Atlantic. Hanks, who also wrote the screenplay, starred alongside Stephen Graham, Rob Morgan, and Elisabeth Shue. Greyhound came at a time when movie theaters were closed during the pandemic. The war movie initially lived at Sony Pictures Releasing under the Columbia Pictures label. Initially slated for a March 2020 theatrical release, Greyhound was delayed multiple times. In May 2020, Apple TV+ acquired distribution rights for around $70 million. Apple TV+ released Greyhound directly to streaming on July 10, 2020. Greyhound became a significant hit for Apple, as it recorded streaming records for the service. While it’s not Saving Private Ryan, Greyhound is an underrated war movie with a stoic Hanks at the center. Time will tell if the high streaming audience returns for the sequel. Editors’ Recommendations

AI is creating job opportunities, but no one can agree on how to title or organize the new roles, leaving job seekers with a lot to navigate.