If Le Corbusier saw houses as machines for living, then I see this house as my machine for skiing, said Rick Cook, cofounder of COOKFOX, of his newly designed project in upstate New York. That skiing machinemeasuring a little over 3,000 square feet across three storieswas designed by the architect himself. Sited deep in the North Country, the alpine-inflected contemporary home rests on a wooded acre within Bear Valley, a ravine next to the rolling hills of Titus Mountain and directly in the path of a ski trail. When the opportunity to purchase a parcel of land in the valley came up, Cook jumped on the chance to create his interpretation of a family-oriented, purpose-built machine for Adirondack living.The home is nestled in the forest but sited intentionally to offer ski in, ski out access. (Francois Dischinger)Ours is the first modern structure in the valley, so we had to balance our aesthetic inclinations with a sensitivity to the context and history of the site, Cook explained. To do that, he looked at the historic Adirondack homes neighboring the property, copying their basic shapes and forms, echoing their deep dormers and front porticos. These architectural elements also reminded Cook of other styles of homes found in snowy climes, specifically Swiss chalets and Nordic lodges. Cook used cedar inside and outside the house to maintain the traditional wood material of those typologies. He wrapped the exterior in blackened cedar paneling and outfitted the soffits, railings, and outdoor staircase in clear-coated cedar boards. However, a subtle decorative touch was introduced, though still in keeping with his modernist inclinations: Cook cut ski marker shapes (diamonds, squares, and circles demarcating trail difficulty levels) into the buildings balustrades. The geometric motif cleverly broadcasts the homes raison dtre more than typical stencil-cut hearts and evergreen trees. The home stretches across the sites dramatic slope, meaning the living room is lofted above a boot-on mud room. (Francois Dischinger)That explicit connection to skiing wasnt relegated to mere decoration, though. The lowest level of the house was designed to be ski in, ski out. Cook embedded the home into an incline, meaning a pit stop while descending the mountain via the trail would be easy. A covered terrace with storage for skis opens to a boot-on hallway (furnished with commercial-grade carpet) that leads to a tiled powder room. Having a bathroom you can run into with your boots still on is a huge luxury. Every ski family would smile knowing this exists, said Cook. Architectural details found on Swiss chalets and Nordic lodges, such as pitched roofs and small balconies define the house. (Francois Dischinger)Walk up the stairs, and youre in the heart of the home: a double-height, open-concept floorplan with room for cooking, eating, and lounging. Cook used cedar again for the interiors, shellacking and staining them all whitehe is a modernist, after all. To combat that monochrome abundance, he made several openings along the east, north, and west sides for picture windows and sliding glass doors connected to a covered balcony, which looks out over the forests canopy. When it snows, being in there is like what I imagine being inside a snow globe would feel like, Cook said. Two ancillary bedrooms and a full bath complete the first floor. The primary bedroom and bathroom, shared by Cook and his wife, Ellen, occupy the top floor.The living room enjoys generous windows that dont compromise on energy efficiency, and it connects via an open plan to a green-tiled kitchen. (Francois Dischinger)In keeping with Cooks professional reputation as a leader in sustainable design, he ensured his ski home reached the highest possible metrics of efficiency and thermal comfortwithout breaking the bank. An energy recovery ventilator and R60 insulation in the ceiling keep the air in the house clean and comfortable year-round. High-performance window panes filled with argon gas keep drafts from seeping through the large aluminum-clad wooden frames. The front door reached an impressive 1.48 ACH50 when a blower door test was performedtwice as efficient as what code dictates for a home in this northern climate zone (6a). Budget is always a concern when trying to DIY sustainability, explained Cook, but we got the house pretty close to Passive House standards at less than $400 per square foot.The house in Bear Valley was completed on a short timeline of just 16 months. (Francois Dischinger)Unlike Cooks primary residence downstate, which took 20 years to complete, the Bear Valley house was move-in-ready in just 16 monthsCOVID-19 supply troubles notwithstanding. Cook and his family have enjoyed two winters in it now. Every housewhether for yourself or a clientis about fulfilling hopes and aspirations beyond mere shelter, said Cook. For our family, this house perfectly articulates its purpose: a place for having a great time together.Anna Gibertini is a freelance design journalist, copy editor, and sometimes marketer.

After last weeks conclusion to the 2024 U.S. Presidential election, professional organizations from the architecture, construction, climate, and real estate sectors issued statements on what the transition could mean for the environment, economy, and racial and gender equity.While architecture groups have socioeconomic and environmental concerns, some building associations see an opportunity for slashing away at construction and rent regulations. AN rounded up a series of statements from organizations to capture the spectrum of public opinion. National Organization of Minority Architects (NOMA)NOMA issued a statement on social media from its executive board and board of directors summarizing the advocacy groups discontents with the latest presidential election. NOMA said that the realities facing women in our profession, including barriers to career advancement and challenges related to motherhood and mentorship will be exacerbated by President Trumps administration; DEI initiatives and HBCUs will see a rollback in support from the federal government; and DBE and MWBE will see less opportunities.The advocacy group also said the effects of tariffs and rising construction costs will worsen, placing a heavier burden on communities and reducing opportunities for equitable development. It also emphasized the need to recognize the profound implications of expanding policing and prisons in the years ahead, and to acknowledge the magnitude of global conflicts, such as those in Sudan and Palestine. The full statement can be accessed here.National Association of Realtors (NAR)Today, the National Association of Realtors is one of the most powerful lobbying groups on Capitol Hill. The Super PAC regularly squashes ballot initiatives for rent control, eviction protections, and so forth. In 2022, NAR invested $84.11 million on lobbying politicians, outspending virtually every other Super PAC in the U.S.Ahead of the 2024 election cycle, NAR spent $13.6 million on independent expenditure campaigns, and an additional $5.5 million went to state and local associations fighting against rent control, and other tenants rights efforts. According to NAR, 98 percent of congressional candidates who received NARs support won their districts. Looking ahead, NAR will advocate for tax cuts, such as the ugly 11 tax proposals from the Biden Administration it fought against, and won. Architects Climate Action Network (ACAN)ACAN is a nationwide organization that works at the intersection of ecological and climate crises. On November 6, the day when Vice President Harris conceded the election, ACAN called this election seasons results a setback but vowed to maintain its advocacy work. ACANs words are shared below:The US election results may feel like a setback in driving substantive climate action, but history has shown that even in challenging times, we have the resilience and capacity to transform our communities, our institutions, and our future. Now is not the time to despair; its the time to organise strategically and take meaningful climate action.The work we do on the groundin our local communities, in our universities, and in every place where people gather for a better world will drive the change we need. Lets channel any disappointment into determination. We are part of a growing movement that cannot be silenced or sidelined. The climate crisis waits for no one, and the solutions we fight for are critical for all life on this planet.In the face of this moment, one thing is clear: we cannot lose sight of the power we hold when we come together.Lets come together in solidarity and seize this moment to intensify our efforts. From grassroots networks to international forums, our collective action is unstoppable. This is our opportunity to build even stronger alliances, hold leaders accountable, challenge disinformation, and inspire others to join in protecting our planet and achieving climate justice.Were not giving up. Were just getting started.AIA New York | Center for ArchitectureExecutive director of AIA NY, Jesse Lazar, wrote a letter to members, colleagues, and friends of Center for Architecture. This is what it said:Today is a sad and challenging day for many of us. Although our community is broad, with varying social and political priorities and perspectives represented, we acknowledge and empathize with the pain, concern, and fear that so many are experiencing. We are particularly mindful of those who identify with or love others who are part of communities that have been targeted during the presidential campaign.Both AIA New York and the Center for Architecture will continue to pursue action to honor our shared vision of advancing the value and practice of architecture to promote just and sustainable communities. We look forward to sharing more plans for how we will do that work together. In the meantime, all are welcome here at the Center for Architecture, wherewe are committedto providing a safe and enriching environment that celebrates community, collaboration, and learning.The institutions in which we participate, the groups to which we belong, and the civic engagement we do together are vital tools for change and empowerment. We hope you will find your ongoing connection to AIA New York and the Center for Architecture especially valuable in challenging times. Below is a list of some upcoming opportunities to be together as a design community in the next few days. We hope we will see you, and in the meantime, take care of yourselves and others. Association of Builders and Contractors (ABC)Michael Bellaman, ABC president and CEO, welcomed last weeks results, calling the outcome an exciting day for our industry. Bellamans full statement is shared below:ABC is optimistic about the future of Americas construction industry and the opportunities to advance policies that protect free enterprise, reduce regulatory burdens and expand workforce development. With leaders and lawmakers committed to promoting economic growth and supporting the principles of fair and open competition, we are confident that the construction industry will thrive and all workers will be given the opportunity to build America with fewer obstacles.ABC looks forward to working with the Trump administration and Congress to advance policies that solve the issues that the construction industry faces, including the skilled labor shortage ofmore than half a million, widespread regulatory burdens and inflation and tax challenges, said Bellaman. We also welcome the opportunity to work with a president who is willing to welcome all of the U.S. construction industry to rebuild America.U.S. Green Building Council California (USGBC)Ben Stapleton, executive director of USGBC California, said that, after this latest election season, the path for climate experts has become steeper and more rugged,but also, in some ways clearer and more in focus. In Stapletons letter, he told his constituents that the struggle is real, and we and they need you now more than ever. And you are not alone. Stapleton proceeded to lay out clear cut initiatives he said need advocating for, such as scaling USGBCsNet Zero Accelerator and 50L Home initiative, building up a green workforce, and the Green Homes California program.National Utility Contractors Association (NUCA)Since 1964, the National Utility Contractors Association has been a non-partisan group with thousands of members involved in building and maintaining water, sewer, gas, telecommunications, and electric infrastructure. Doug Carlson, NUCAs CEO, congratulated Trump on his victory while outlining his main priorities moving forward, with a strong emphasis on clean drinking water, but also roads, bridges, energy, and broadband infrastructure. Carlsons statement is shared below:Washington, D.C. must face the fact that there is an estimated $1 trillion in essential water infrastructure needs across water and wastewater systems over the next 20 years. Congress must appropriate funds at the levels signed into law through the 2021 Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. And it must start planning for what comes next after this funding ends in FY2026.Americas infrastructure issues are nonpartisan. A leaking water service main, or Americans without clean water is everyones concerns. And that is just the start. Americans are counting on Congress to responsibly deliver the billions of dollars in construction for the roads, bridges, energy, and broadband infrastructure our nation needs.The longer we wait to invest in our water infrastructure needs, the greater that number grows. Eventually, the bill will come due. Water systems all around the country rely on federal funding to help them meet their clean water goals. Our view is simplecutting water funding is a mistake our next President and the coming 119th Congress cant afford to make. Americans are counting on their newly elected leaders to invest in clean water. Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA)Abigail Ross Hopper, SEIA president and CEO, was also congratulatory. Hopper said her team hopes to work with the Trump administration, and building out the countrys existing solar and storage industry.Domestic solar manufacturing has grown four-fold under pro-business federal clean energy policies, and soon, we will have enough American-made solar panels to meet our demand for solar deployment. Nearly 9 in 10 Americans support these policies, which are uplifting communities in states like Ohio, Texas, Georgia, and South Carolina with thousands of jobs and billions of dollars of investments.SEIA looks forward to working with the new administration and members of Congress to build on the progress of the last four years. Together we can secure a future of clean energy abundance and prosperity.Citizens Climate Lobby (CCL)Rachel Kerestes, CCLs executive director, said in her statement that the American people have spoken. In January, president-elect Donald Trump and, likely, a Republican-controlled Congress will take office. Kerestes continued that CCLs advocacy work must go on, much like ACANs sentiments.We are clear-eyed about the challenge this result presents for climate action. This moment in American politics will require a lot from climate advocates. It will require a vigorous, focused defense of what our movement has achieved so far. At the same time, it will require a willingness to find opportunities to achieve additional, meaningful progress.Citizens Climate Lobby is ready to meet this moment. Our long history of working respectfully across the aisle means we have earned a seat at the table with lawmakers in both parties. Even now, we are well positioned to make progress on evidence-based climate solutions. With the support of our dedicated staff and grassroots volunteers nationwide, we intend to do just that.AN will continue to update to this list with statements from other organizations involved with the built environment.

The Riccar Inn, now known as the Presidential Inn, was constructed in 1913 on the grounds of the former Poland Springs House. The structure was the last of the hotel buildings constructed by the Ricker family, who started the resort aimed at drawing in tourists to take in the areas natural healing waters. The annex hotel building was named Riccar Inn, with the spelling Riccar from the historic surname used by members of the family before they emigrated to America. The Queen Anne/Colonial Revival style hotel building survived the 1975 fire that destroyed the main hotel, the Poland Springs House. Architecturally grand, this three-story irregular plan hotel has a flat roof and features a four-story projecting double bay in the front facade topped with two octagonal towers. While covered in vinyl siding, much of the original ornament still shines (and there is likely more underneath the siding to be uncovered at a future date). What a beautiful building.

Published November 11, 2024 10:00am EST close Veterans, first responders are top of mind for this celebrity chef Chef Robert Irvine of the Robert Irvine Foundation speaks with Fox News Digital about the importance of supporting veterans and first responders this Veterans Day and some unique ways to do so. Cyberscammers are some of the most heartless people out there. They dont even spare our military heroes.Last year, these criminals stole $477 million from veterans, military personnel and their spouses, according to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). Thats a $63 million jump from 2022, showing that the military community is a big target for scammers. The number of military members who lost money to these attacks went up by 7% to 30,948, per the FTCs latest data.These scammers use all kinds of tricks to get veterans to hand over personal info or hard-earned cash, including veterans' benefit scams and IRS scams. I break down five of the most common scams targeting our military heroes and how to stay safe from them.Enter bysigning up for my free newsletter! Image of military personnel (Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson)Romance scamsRomance scams have become an increasingly painful reality for veterans, as scammers target them through fake online relationships to exploit their emotions and financial stability. Often, these scammers pose as attractive, understanding individuals on dating apps, social media platforms or even support forums specifically tailored for veterans. Theyll build a relationship over weeks or months, using flattery and fabricated stories to create a strong emotional connection with their target.Once the scammer believes theyve gained enough trust, theyll ask for money, typically by inventing a sudden, urgent situation. It might be a "medical emergency," a supposed travel expense to come to visit or even a claim that they need help with a legal matter. The requests start small but can quickly escalate as the scammer continues to manipulate the victim's emotions.This continues to be the most common fraud targeting veterans, costing them and their families over $40 million in 2020, according to Aura. Among all romance scam victims, those ages 50-69 were hit the hardest, losing $179.65 million in just the first three quarters of 2022. That figure has almost certainly surged in 2024. Image of military personnel supporting one another (Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson)Veterans benefit scamsSome scammers pretend to offer help with veterans' benefits. They promise to help increase benefits or expedite claims, but theyre really after personal information or a fee. A scammer might claim youre eligible for new or additional benefits, contacting you by phone, email or text. When dealing with unsolicited advice, remember that if it seems too good to be true, it probably is.Phishing scams from fake government agenciesPhishing scams are a social engineering trick where scammers send emails that look like theyre from official places, like the government or your bank. These legit-looking emails act as bait, but the real goal is to grab your banking or credit card info.Sometimes, these scam emails will ask you to click a link or download an attachment, which can install malware on your device. Scammers are also known to send phishing links through LinkedIn, Facebook or other social media.One classic example is the IRS scam. Though it targets everyone, military members are prime targets. Scammers pretend to be IRS agents, threatening jail time, fines or other penalties if they dont get immediate payment. They even spoof IRS caller IDs to make their calls look real.Rental property scamsRental property scams are a common way scammers try to exploit people looking for a place to rent. In these scams, fraudsters often post fake listings for apartments or houses on popular rental websites or social media platforms. The listing might look too good to be true, like a beautiful place at an unbelievably low price.The scammer will usually claim to be out of town or unavailable to meet in person, asking potential renters to send a deposit or rent payment upfront to "secure" the property. In some cases, they may even send fake lease agreements or claim that the property is already rented, but they can still "help" find a similar place.Car sales and financing scamsCar sales and financing scams targeting veterans are unfortunately common. Scammers know that veterans may have limited experience with certain financial deals, so they exploit that by offering unrealistic car sales or financing options. These scams can take various forms, and the result is often financial loss and stress. Image of military personnel honoring our troops (Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson)6 ways veterans can protect themselves from scams1) Be cautious with unsolicited offers: Whether its a phone call, email or text, if someone claims to offer help with veterans' benefits or promises something too good to be true, dont take the bait. Verify the legitimacy of any offer directly through official channels like the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) or trusted veteran organizations.2) Watch out for emotional manipulation in online relationships: Romance scammers often prey on veterans' emotions. Avoid sharing personal or financial details with people you meet online, especially if the relationship feels rushed or too perfect. If someone asks for money after just a few weeks or months, its likely a scam.3) Verify government communications: Scammers often impersonate government agencies like the IRS or VA. If you get a message that threatens penalties or asks for personal information, dont respond. Instead, contact the agency directly using official contact details to confirm whether the message is legitimate.4) Be skeptical of rental or car sale deals that seem too good to be true: If a rental listing or car sale seems too cheap or perfect to be true, it probably is. Always visit the property or dealership in person, and never send money upfront without seeing the product or having a signed agreement.5) Protect your personal information: Avoid clicking on links or downloading attachments from unknown sources. Scammers use phishing emails and fake websites to steal personal and financial information. Ensure your devices have updated security software and be extra cautious when handling sensitive data online.The best way to safeguard yourself from malicious links that install malware, potentially accessing your private information, is to have antivirus software installed on all your devices.Get my picks for the best 2024 antivirus protection winners for your Windows, Mac, Android and iOS devices.6)Invest in data removal services: Consider using data removal services to protect your personal information from being harvested by scammers. These services can help remove your data from public databases and people-search websites, reducing the risk of identity theft and unwanted solicitations.Check out my top picks for data removal services here.Kurts key takeawayScammers rely on misinformation to trick you. However, by staying informed and being extra careful when navigating the internet, you can stay safe. These bad actors are constantly finding new ways to target veterans, from romance scams to fake government offers. Being cautious, verifying offers and keeping your data secure are the best ways to avoid falling victim to these heartless fraudsters.Do you think more needs to be done to protect military personnel from these types of scams? Let us know by writing us at Cyberguy.com/Contact.CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APPFor more of my tech tips and security alerts, subscribe to my free CyberGuy Report Newsletter by heading to Cyberguy.com/Newsletter.Follow Kurt on his social channels:Answers to the most asked CyberGuy questions:New from Kurt:Copyright 2024 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 Kurts free CyberGuy Newsletter, share your voice, a story idea or comment at CyberGuy.com.

sakkmesterke - stock.adobe.comNewsHyperscalers net-zero plans hit roadblockHyperscalers are looking at nuclear to power their energy-hungry datacentres and meet net-zero targets but regulations may curb their plansByCliff Saran,Managing EditorPublished: 11 Nov 2024 15:30 In 2022, datacentres were estimated to consume about 2% of global energy. By 2026, that number is predicted to double to 4%, equivalent to about 1000 terawatt hours a year, which, according to Gartner, is equivalent to the consumption of a country the size of Japan.Lloyd Jones, vice-president analyst at Gartner, said the company's energy utility clients are saying no to datacentres because they cannot guarantee 24/7, 365 days a year uninterruptible supply.But there is plenty of interest in the use of nuclear power as an alternative to fossil fuels to provide localised power for datacentres.Last month, Alphabet signed a deal with Kairos Power to develop the use of small modular nuclear reactors (SMRs) to complement the companys use of renewables to power its datacentres. Michael Terrell, senior director of energy and climate at Google, said in a blog post that the deal with Kairos Power would help the hyperscaler reach its net-zero targets for emissions.In September, Microsoft announced a 20-year agreement to buy electricity from Constellation Energys Three Mile Island (TMI) nuclear plant, and in March, Amazon acquired Talen Energys Cumulus Data Assets datacentre site, which is opposite the Susquehanna Steam Electric Station.In a new report, Powering data centers with new nuclear capacity faces tech, regulatory challenges, ratings agency Moodys notes that nuclear power enables electricity generating capacity free of greenhouse gas emissions and, unlike renewable energy sources such as solar or wind, nuclear reactors provide a 24/7, dispatchable source of electricity.But the report also highlights the risk of SMRs, which are considered a new technology. As Moodys points out, efforts to develop new nuclear generating capacity in the US have been frequently marked by construction holdups and cost overruns that have caused significant credit deterioration, severe financial distress and even utility bankruptcies. For instance, Utah Associated Municipal Power Systems and NuScale Power Corporation said in November 2023 that they had decided to terminate their plans to build an SMR because of rising development costs.Read more about hyperscalers energy strategyMicrosofts latest moves to secure electricity and more datacentres tackle two problems faced by major cloud providers: insufficient power and space to meet AI demands.Sustainable and renewable energy sources are necessary for data centers to meet emissions requirements by 2030. Nuclear power is a unique option for clean energy to run datacentres.While hyperscalers are busy signing deals to build out nuclear power plants to power their datacentres, Jones said: Take this with a pinch of salt, because we have not seen a small modular nuclear reactor being licensed and being built as a prototype, never mind receiving a licence for commercial manufacturers at industrial scale.Moodys notes that the technology is still under development and is likely to face heavy regulatory scrutiny. In addition, the ratings agency noted that efforts in the US to develop new nuclear generating capacity have been frequently marked by construction holdups and cost overruns.Given the fact that SMRs have yet to be built in a way that can make them operationally cost-effective, Jones predicts the hyperscalers will slowly roll back some of their net-zero commitments. The only thing they can do, he said, is use power from gas generators, which they will need to install on-site since the utilities firms are curbing applications for more datacentre power. Commitments are being rolled back on quietly and were seeing artificial intelligences (AIs) dirty secret puffing out as carbon intensity rises, he added, referring to the vast power requirements needed to run machine learning and AI inference workloads.However, building such microgrids onsite to generate electricity local to datacentre facilities is likely to face intense regulatory scrutiny. In what amounts to a major setup for Amazon Web Services, the US Federal Energy Regulatory Commission recently ruled against regional electricity transmission firm PJM Interconnections request to increase the capacity of Talen and Amazons interconnection service agreement to 480MW from the currently approved 300MW.Moodys said the order is likely to slow the proliferation of behind the meter deals under which datacentres are able to purchase electricity directly from a power plant on the same site, enabling them to bypass transmission and distribution costs. Such agreements would, in theory, provide datacentres with the quickest access to existing generation, Moodys said.Its likely there will be more regulatory barriers to overcome before microgrids and the idea of SMRs providing on-site power for datacentres gets any closer.However, Moodys believes that utility companies can help to de-risk the development of SMRs by working closely with the tech sector. Such partnerships would help to make SMRs commercially viable, and help both sectors carbon transition efforts. The scale and financial resources of hyperscalers like Amazon, Google, Microsoft and Meta Platforms position them well to shoulder the associated financial burdens of SMR development, Moodys said.In The Current Issue:Data bill will boost NHS and police access to data, says governmentDell CTO: Enterprise AI poised to take off in 2025Download Current IssueRedgate 'smartens up' database DevOps portfolio CW Developer NetworkOpenUK: Ponder procurement & policy perfection, please Open Source InsiderView All Blogs

UK drivers working for ride-hailing and food delivery app Bolt should be classed as staff rather than self-employed, the Employment Tribunal has ruled.Being classified as workers means more than 100,000 Bolt drivers are now entitled to better workplace conditions and protections for the first time under UK employment law, including the right to be paid the national minimum wage, and to receive statutory minimum holiday pay and rest breaks, as well as protection from unlawful discrimination and whistleblowing.The Employment Tribunal specifically rejected Bolts claim that drivers are self-employed contractors running their own businesses, finding instead that the terms and conditions the firm applies to its relationship with drivers, as well as the level of control it has over their day-to-day work, means they are in fact workers.Overwhelmingly, the power lies with Bolt, said the ruling. There is nothing in the relationship which demands, or even suggests, agency. The agency notion is posited simply to defeat the obvious interpretation which the facts invite that Bolt employs the drivers to provide their labour in furtherance of its transportation business.It added: The supposed contract between the Bolt driver and the passenger is a fiction designed by Bolt and in particular its lawyers to defeat the argument that it has an employer/worker relationship with the driver.While Bolt currently only pays its drivers for time spent on trips, the Employment Tribunal also ruled they should be paid for time spent logged into the Bolt app, providing they are not also logged into apps for other private hire operators such as Uber or Deliveroo a practice those operators refer to as multi-apping.Lawyers from Leigh Day representing the drivers said the employment tribunal decision which was handed down on 8 November 2024 following a three-week hearing in September could lead to drivers receiving collective compensation worth more than 200m. They added that, on average, drivers could be entitled to compensation of over 15,000.While the ruling means Bolt will need to provide paid holiday and ensure drivers earn the minimum wage for any periods they work, the Employment Tribunal will hold a further session to decide exactly how much compensation the drivers are entitled to.We are very pleased that the employment tribunal has found in favour of our Bolt driver clients, said Leigh Day employment team solicitor Charlotte Pettman, who represented roughly 15,000 current and former Bolt drivers in their legal action.This judgment confirms that gig economy operators cannot continue to falsely classify their workers as independent contractors running their own business to avoid providing the rights those workers are properly entitled to. We call on Bolt to compensate our clients without further delay.Bolt driver Shuhel Ahmed also welcomed the ruling, adding: Its satisfying to know that our hard work and long hours have been recognised, and that we can fight on for better pay and conditions, and compensation will make a huge difference to my familys life. A spokesperson for Bolt which is currently reviewing its options, including grounds to appeal the decision said: Drivers are at the heart of what we do, and we have always supported the overwhelming majoritys choice to remain self-employed, independent contractors, protecting their flexibility, personal control and earning potential.The legal claim from Bolt drivers followed the UK Supreme Court determining in February 2021 that Uber drivers who were also represented by Leigh Day should be classified as workers rather than self-employed. That specific legal challenge was brought by private hire driver Yaseen Aslam and his union, the App Drivers and Couriers Union (ADCU).However, although Uber agreed in March to pay its UK drivers the minimum wage, it said this would only apply for the time they are assigned to trips, rather than, as the Supreme Court explicitly ruled, from the time they log in to the app.Commenting on the latest Employment Tribunal hearing decision regarding Bolt which explicitly noted that drivers should be paid for all time spent logged into the app ADCU general secretary Zamir Dreni said it vindicates our position on working time and demonstrates that neither Bolt nor Uber have never fully complied with the Supreme Court ruling, which means that between 40% and 60% of true working time remains unpaid.Rather than force workers back into courts for another decade of litigation, the government needs to step in now and fix the current employment bill, which omitted protections for gig workers, so that Britains hard-working minicab drivers and delivery couriers get the protections they deserve.However, different rulings related to the working relationship between drivers and other operators have come to different conclusions.In June 2021, theUK Court of Appeal ruled in a case originally brought by the Independent Workers Union of Great Britain (IWGB) in 2017 that Deliveroo riders are self-employed, further finding they do not have the right to organise via a trade union.Despite this, one judge conceded that the ruling could be seen as counterintuitive because it is easy to see that riders might benefit from organising collectively to represent their interests, as against Deliveroo.Another judge agreed that the decision may seem counterintuitive, adding: I quite accept that there may be other cases where, on different facts and with a broader range of available arguments, a different result may eventuate.Lord Justice Underhill added that the Uber case, which largely revolved around UK-specific employment law, had no bearing on this Deliveroo case because it did not engage Article 11 of the European Convention on Human Rights (which protects the right to form and join trade unions), adding that unlike Deliveroo, Uber did not rely on any substitution clause that meant others are allowed to complete the work.In September 2022, the IWGB once again appealed the ruling, arguing that riders have been denied collective bargaining rights and once again seeking to establish their worker status. However, this was dismissed by the Supreme Court in November 2023, which noted the way riders work with Deliveroo is inconsistent with an employment relationship.Read more about ride-hailing and delivery appsUber CEO denies pricing algorithm uses behavioural patterns: Uber workers are concerned about what data is being used by the companys algorithm to set variable pay and pricing levels after CEO Dara Khosrowshahi admits to using drivers behavioural patterns.Deliveroo accused of soft union busting with GMB deal: Smaller grassroots unions have criticised Deliveroo and GMB for making a hollow deal that will ultimately undermine workers self-organising efforts.Uber and Ola ordered to hand over more data to drivers: A Dutch court has rejected Uber and Olas claims that drivers collectively taking action to access their data amounts to an abuse of their individual data access rights, laying the ground for drivers to form their own union-controlled data trust.

Black Friday is right around the corner, andBest Buyhas just unveiled its latest deals during its Black Friday Sneak Peek sale, already offering holiday-worthy savings for those looking to purchase gifts at a discount or simply upgrade their own tech.Whether you want to get an early head start on your holiday gift list or treat yourself to something special, you can take advantage of substantial savings on popular items like laptops, smartphones, headphones, and major appliances right now. Here are some of the top Best Buy deals we've found so far.Also: The best Black Friday deals live nowOur favorite early Black Friday Best Buy deals Amazon/ZDNETLG 65-inch Class C4 Series evo 4K for $1,499 (save $300): The high color accuracy, perfect contrast, and wide viewing angles of this OLED display TV come with a staggering price drop.TCL 65-inch Class Q5 Series 4K TV for $379 (save $170): One of the best budget TVs features 4K video resolution, a decent QLED panel that gets bright and colorful, and Fire TV software.Sonance Mag Series Outdoor Rock Speaker System for $799 (save $500): This discreet, weather-resistant audio solution blends seamlessly into outdoor environments, with two satellite rock speakers and a 10" rock woofer for immersive, full-bodied audio in any backyard or garden setting.Samsung 27-inch Odyssey G-Sync Gaming Monitor for $249 (save $100): Grab this high-performance display featuring fast 240Hz refresh rate, 1ms response time, G-Sync compatibility, and a stunning Full HD IPS panel.Apple AirPods Pro 2 for $189 (save $60): With noise cancellation, water and sweat resistance, and exceptional sound quality, the AirPods Pro 2 delivers up to 30 hours of listening time -- and right now it's priced at an all-time low.Best Buy laptop deals Best Buy/ZDNETLenovo Flex 3 15.6-inch Touch-Screen Chromebook Laptop for $329 (save $150): This versatile 2-in-1 laptop has a 15.6-inch FHD touchscreen display, an Intel Pentium Silver N6000 processor, 8GB RAM, and 64GB of eMMC storage.Microsoft GSRF 12.4-inch Surface Laptop Go for $249 (save $150): This compact and versatile device features a PixelSense touchscreen display, a 10th Gen Intel Core i5-1035G1 processor, 4GB of RAM, and a 64GB eMMC storage.ASUS 14-inch ROG Zephyrus Gaming Laptop for $1,749 (save $250): Featuring an OLED 3K display with a 120Hz refresh rate and powered by AMD Ryzen 9 processor, this sleek gaming laptop also boasts an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070 graphics card.HP Envy 2-in-1 14-inch Touch-Screen Laptop for $719 (save $330): Powered by an AMD Ryzen 7 processor, the HP Envy offers a sleek Glacier Silver design, responsive touch screen, and impressive performance for both productivity and entertainment.Lenovo Yoga 7i 2-in-1 14-inch 2K Touchscreen Laptop for $749 (save $300): This 2K laptop can also switch seamlessly between modes, is powered by an Intel Core Ultra 7-155U processor, and has a bright, responsive touchscreen.Apple 13.6-inch MacBook Air for $749 (save $150): This versatile and high-performing MacBook features an M2 chip built for Apple Intelligence, 8GB of unified memory, 256GB of SSD storage, and a 1080p FaceTime HD camera.Also: The best laptops: Expert testedBest Buy TV deals Samsung/ZDNETLG 65-inch OLED evo 4K Smart TV for $1,299 (save $300): The LG C3 Series OLED evo 4K UHD Smart WebOS TV is a high-end television that combines stunning picture quality with advanced smart features.Sony 65-inch Class Bravia 8 OLED Smart Google TV for $1,699 (save $300): This impressive high-end TV features individual control over 8 million self-illuminating pixels, delivering pure blacks, vibrant colors, and deep contrast for an unparalleled viewing experience.TCL 65-inch Class Q5 Series 4K TV for $379 (save $170): One of the best budget TVs features 4K video resolution, a decent QLED panel that gets bright and colorful, and Fire TV software.Hisense 58-inch U6 Series Quantum ULED Fire TV for $349 (save $100): This budget-friendly, feature-rich television combines 4K resolution, Quantum Dot technology, Dolby Vision HDR, and a user-friendly Google TV interface.Pioneer 65-inch LED 4K UHD Smart Xumo TV for $299 (save $200): Pioneer's affordable and user-friendly TV offers impressive 4K resolution, Dolby Vision HDR10 compatibility, Apple Airplay 2, and an advanced voice remote.Insignia 50-inch Smart Fire TV for $209 (save $90): The Class F30 Series LED 4K UHD TV is a budget-friendly television that offers a large, high-resolution display and a range of smart features.Samsung 50-inch Crystal UHD 4K Smart Tizen TV for $249 (save $50): As another model in Samsung's DU6900 Series, this TV offers Crystal UHD display, smart features powered by the Tizen operating system, and a sleek design.Best Buy appliance deals LG/ZDNETLG 7.4 Cu. Ft. Stackable Smart Electric Dryer for $799 (save $300): This energy-efficient dryer features a spacious drum, TurboSteam technology to reduce wrinkles and odors, and AI technology that automatically selects optimal drying settings for enhanced fabric care and convenience.LG 28.7 Cu. Ft. French Door Refrigerator for $1,299 (save $589): With its dual ice maker, IcePlus acceleration technology, and Smart Cooling system, this 3-door refrigerator/freezer offers ample storage and advanced features at a great discount.Maytag Dishwasher with Stainless Steel Tub for $549 (save $245): Quiet operation (50 dBA), fingerprint-resistant finish, and an advanced dual power filtration system make this deal a win for $245 off.Insignia 13.8 Cu. Ft. Garage Ready Upright Freezer for $499 (save $250): This stainless steel, energy-efficient storage solution isn't just a freezer; it features adjustable shelves and door bins, temperature alarm and auto-defrost functionality, and the ability to convert between freezer and refrigerator modes.Ninja Prestige Smart XL Air Fryer & Countertop Oven for $279 (save $70): This versatile, high-performance oven features 10 cooking functions and Smart Surround Convection technology for cooking delicious meals with up to 75% less fat than traditional frying methods.Whirlpool 24.6 Cu. Ft. Side-by-Side Stainless Steel Refrigerator for $1,149 (save $470): As a spacious and energy-efficient refrigerator, it features adjustable glass shelves, a built-in water and ice dispenser, and a fingerprint-resistant finish.FAQsWhen is Black Friday?Black Friday 2024 is on Friday, Nov. 29, which is the day after Thanksgiving. It's the perfect time to snag some of the best deals on electronics, appliances, and other items.When is Cyber Monday?Cyber Monday is on Dec. 2, which is the Monday immediately following Black Friday (Nov. 29). It's another opportunity for shoppers to take advantage of great deals, especially on online purchases.Are Best Buy deals really better on Black Friday?Yes, Best Buy typically offers some of their best deals during Black Friday, making it a great time to shop for electronics and other items. Many retailers like Best Buy start their holiday sales early in November, so you don't have to wait until the actual day of Black Friday to find a great deal.What's the difference between Black Friday and Cyber Monday?Black Friday is best known for its in-store deals, although many retailers also offer deals online. Cyber Monday is the following Monday and focuses more on online shopping, although many brick-and-mortar stores now offer Cyber Monday deals as well. In terms of deals, you may find similar discounts on both days, but Cyber Monday tends to have more deals on smaller items, while Black Friday might have better deals on larger items like TVs or appliances.How did we choose these early Black Friday Best Buy deals?ZDNET only writes about deals we want to buy -- devices and products we desire, need, or would recommend. Our experts looked for deals that were at least 20% off (or are hardly ever on sale), using established price comparison tools and trackers to determine whether the deal is actually on sale and how frequently it drops.We also looked over customer reviews to find out what matters to real people who already own and use the deals we're recommending. Our recommendations may also be based on our own testing -- in addition to extensive research and comparison shopping. The goal is to deliver the most accurate advice to help you shop smarter.Where can you shop the best Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals?You can find great Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals both in-store and online from many major retailers. These days, Amazon, Walmart, Best Buy, and Target all offer a wide range of deals on their websites. Whether you're braving the crowds or clicking your way to savings, there are plenty of options to find great deals during these major shopping events.Top holiday deals

Books take up a lot of space, but e-readers allow you to carry hundreds of books (and audiobooks) in a small, convenient form factor. And, unlike smartphones and tablets, e-readers are fitted with e-ink displays to look and even feel like paper. They're glare-free and suited to both indoor and outdoor reading.E-ink displays even feature a subtle backlight, which means you can read in bed without needing a light on. Combine this with a battery life measured in weeks, and you have the perfect device to replace your big, heavy books.What is the best e-reader right now?Based on our extensive testing, the best e-reader available is the Amazon Kindle Paperwhite, thanks to its long battery life, crisp reading experience, and ease of use. You may automatically think about Kindle when you think of e-readers, and while there certainly is a reason it's our top pick, there are other great options from other brands that allow you to take your library on the go.The best e-readers of 2024 Show less Pros Longest battery life Plenty of storage Waterproof and adjustable warm light Cons Audible requires a separate app No headphone jack Amazon Kindle Paperwhite (12th generation) Best e-reader overall The Kindle Paperwhite is a top-notch e-reader. It has all the familiar features of a Kindle (300 ppi e-ink screen, long battery life, and adjustable warm light). Amazon just updated the Kindle Paperwhite this fall, and its biggest draw is faster performance: Amazon said it features 25% faster page turns and 20% overall faster performance.Aside from speed, the Paperwhite gets up to 12 weeks of battery life (compared to 10 weeks from the previous Paperwhite generation. Staff writer Maria Diaz tested the Kindle for two weeks and never had to charge it. "After two weeks of daily reading on a single charge, some days for up to three hours a day, my Kindle Paperwhite's battery is still at 32%," she wrote in her review.The new Paperwhite also has a larger, 7-inch display (the previous generation was 6.8 inches), and it's thinner as well, making it even more comfortable to hold while reading for hours. It also comes in two new colors: raspberry and jade.There is still a Signature Edition to the Paperwhite as before, and for $40 more, you get wireless charging, 32GB of storage instead of 16GB, and an auto-adjusting front light sensor.Amazon Kindle Paperwhite tech specs: Display:7-inch 300 ppi e-ink screen|Storage:16 GB |Colors: Black, raspberry, jade |Weight:7.4 ounces |Dimensions:7 x 5 x .30 inches |Connections:USB-C, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth|Battery life:Up to 12 weeks Show Expert Take Show less Show less Pros Similar to more expensive models Lightweight Portable Dark mode Cons Limited web browser functionality No warm light option Amazon Kindle (12th generation) Best budget e-reader Amazon also updated the base-model Kindle this fall. The upgraded 12th generation Kindle features faster page turns, a higher contrast ratio, and a front light that is 25% brighter at the max settingas bright as the new Kindle Paperwhite. The price increased slightly from the previous generation, from $100 to $110, but it's still the cheapest e-reader you can buy.Associate editor Nina Raemont spent a weekend reading the new Kindle and said it's the most value-packed device. "While I was reading, I noticed that the page-turning and book-loading speeds were significantly quicker than on my Kindle Oasis or Kindle Paperwhite from 2022," she wrote. "I tested my old Paperwhite and my new Kindle and found that the new Kindle turned pages a smidgen quicker than the Paperwhite."Raemont also commented on the Kindle's more vivid display and brightness. Speaking of color, it also comes in a new exterior color: matcha green.Its 300 ppi remains the same, and the anti-glare display makes it easy to read in any light, and dark mode is a warm welcome when you're trying to read at night without letting blue light interrupt your sleep cycle.Amazon Kindle tech specs: Display:6-inch, 300ppi glare-free |Storage:16GB |Colors:Black or matcha|Weight:5.56 ounces|Dimensions:6.2 x 4.3 x 0.32 inches |Connections:USB-C, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth|Battery: Up to 6 weeks Show Expert Take Show less Show less View now at Amazon Pros Color screen and color note-taking Page-turning buttons Lightweight and waterproof Cons Ghosting affect is more noticeable Kindle Colorsoft Best color e-reader New this year to the Kindle lineup is its first color e-reader: the Kindle Colorsoft. It features the same 300 ppi display that's standard for e-readers, except it also has a 150 ppi display for color images, along with up to 120 nits of brightness to really make your pages and color images pop. Depending on your color preferences, you can customize the color settings to standard or vivid.The Colorsoft's color features don't stop there: you can also highlight passages in your books in different colors and organize them into categories (i.e., quotes in yellow, facts in blue, characters to remember in purple, etc.). I was able to go hands-on with the new Kindle Colorsoft, and was impressed by how its color didn't drown out when in direct sunlight. I even paired it next to a Boox e-reader and noticed a more obvious pixelization on the Boox's color display, as opposed to the smooth color that the Kindle provides.This color Kindle would be great for those who often read comics or Manga, and it even provides panel-by-panel reading for comics, making it easy to see the elements the author intended for each panel. In addition, a pinch-and-zoom feature allows you to really see the color images in detail.However, if the books you read are mostly black and white, I don't think the color is worth the almost $300 price tag.Kindle Colorsoft tech specs: Display:7-inch, glare-free color screen|Storage:32GB |Colors:Black|Weight:7.07 ounces |Dimensions:7 x 5 x 0.30 inches |Connections:USB-C, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth |Battery: Up to 8 weeks Show Expert Take Show less Show less Pros Great design and display Amazing note-taking abilities Customizable screen for easier reading Cons Expensive Screen lag happens often Boox Tab Mini C Best e-reader for note-taking Boox is an e-reader and drawing tablet with a vivid color display, so your e-book's illustrations will pop as you read, and so will your color-coordinated notes. Speaking of which, the note-taking templates on the Tab Mini C are handy. Whether you're a student taking notes, a desk job employee making an hourly plan for your day, a musician crafting a piece of sheet music, or a historian drafting a timeline, the Tab Mini C offers a template for that.With adjustable warm and cool lights, you can customize your desired blue light level to tone the display before bedtime for an easier-on-the-eyes reading experience. While Boox itself does not have an e-book library, you can download apps to your Boox device, meaning it can access the Kindle store or Libby (to borrow and read library books).ZDNET editor Nina Raemont, has been using the tablet to manage her work-life calendar, build lists for grocery shopping, meeting agendas, and more. It's become Raemont's deskside companion and staple note-taking device. Because of its lightweight and effortless portability, it has replaced the trusty Moleskin notebook she avidly used to plan her day.The robust battery life lasts many days to a week or two, and the e-reader comes with a magnetically attached stylus with pressure detection for drawing. The tablet's sleek design has a minimalist feel and careful use of popping colors. However,Reddit users notethat you may have to tinker with the tablet's settings to maximize your experience.Boox Tab Mini C specs: Display: 7.9-inch screen, electronic ink |Storage: 64GB |Colors: Black |Weight: 11 ounces |Dimensions: 7.6 x 5.4 x 0.33 inches |Connections: USB-C, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth|Battery:5,000mAh Li-ion Polymer Show Expert Take Show less Show less Pros Page-turning buttons and a headphone jack Premium design and feel Access to millions of books from Barnes and Noble Cons No dark mode Nook GlowLight 4 Plus Best e-reader for buttons For those tried and true Barnes and Noble fans, the Nook is another e-reader option. The Nook first debuted in 2009 to compete with Kindle, but it's since been upgraded to feature more modern features. The GlowLight 4 Plus has a waterproof design (IPX7), a 300 ppi screen with GlowLight technology that's easy on the eyes, and audiobook access via Bluetooth or a headphone jack.The Nook is also the only option on our list that has physical buttons to turn pages and go back to the home screen, which is great for those who are less tech-savvy with touchscreen devices.It's also the only e-reader on this list with a 3.5mm headphone jack, which means you'll be able to listen to audiobooks via wired headphones without having to connect to Bluetooth--another plus point for those who are less tech-inclined.Reddit users note that this is by far the best design Nook has had so far, saying, "This Nook model has probably the best build quality I've ever seen on a Nook. It has that premium feel and a very nice step up from the more plastic-y [Glowlight 4]. I also appreciate the symmetric design."Nook GlowLight 4 Plus tech specs: Display: 7.8-inch high-resolution 300-ppi | Storage: 32GB | Colors: Black | Weight: 10.05 ounces| Dimensions: 7.8 x 5.8 x .31 inches | Connections: USB-C, 3.5mm headphone jack | Battery: Up to 3 weeks Show Expert Take Show less What is the best e-reader? Amazon's Kindle Paperwhite is the best e-reader due to its display and lighting options, as well as its battery life and fast performance. Here's how the five best e-readers compare based on price, screen size, and battery life. Best e-readerPriceScreen sizeBattery lifeAmazon Kindle Paperwhite $160 7 inches 12 weeks Amazon Kindle $110 6 inches 6 weeks Boox Tab Mini C $450 7.9 inches About a week Amazon Kindle Colorsoft $220 7 inches 8 weeks Kobo Clara BW$1306 inches Up to 7 weeksNook GlowLight 4 Plus $200 7.8 inches 3 weeks Which e-reader is right for you? Choose this e-reader...If you need...Amazon Kindle Paperwhite The best overall option. It's waterproof, has an adjustable warm light, and the Kindle Store has the best book options. Amazon Kindle An e-reader for $110. It's small and portable to fit in your bag. Boox Tab Mini C A quality e-reader with note-taking capabilities. Amazon Kindle ColorsoftA color-screen e-reader that brings books to life with color. Kobo Clara BWAn e-reader that helps to eliminate blue light for nighttime reading.Nook GlowLight 4 Plus An e-reader with physical page-turning buttons and a headphone jack for audiobooks. Factors to consider when choosing an e-reader Display: An e-reader's display will ultimately determine your overall reading experience. Look for an e-reader with at least 300 ppi e-ink display, which is the industry standard.Storage capacity:The point of an e-reader is to store as many books as possible in one compact device. We looked at e-readers with wide storage capacities that can hold thousands of titles.Extra features:Some e-readers come with a stylus, offer customizable displays, and more. Lots of models offer water resistance and have anti-glare features so you can read in whatever environment you're in -- whether that's on the sandy beach or in a bathtub.Batterylife: The e-readers on this list should last you a few days, and ideally a few weeks, before recharging. How did we choose these e-readers? We know there are a lot of e-readers to choose from, so we used our own experiences with these products. When we test e-readers, we subject them to both daylight (direct sunlight) and nighttime conditions, paying attention to our overall experience while using the device.We combed through popular sites, reading reviews (both good and bad), and noted the top-rated e-readers for different categories and needs. We considered price, display, battery life, and special features when making our final picks. Isn't a smartphone or tablet a good enough e-reader? While you can read on a smartphone or tablet, e-readers have three huge advantages:The e-ink display is much nicer to look at, especially for extended periods of time.The battery life of e-readers is much better than that of any smartphone or tablet, lasting for weeks between recharges.There are far fewer distractions on an e-reader -- no emails, social media, phone calls, and so on. Are the ads on the "Ad-supported" Kindles annoying? Some people may find the ad-supported Kindle models to be annoying, but there is the option to pay extra for an ad-free device. How much storage does my e-reader need? It depends. 8GB is cavernous for books but can fill up quickly if you start to add audiobooks. Also, if you want to keep every book and audiobook, you can find your storage getting full after a couple years. Are there alternative e-readers worth considering? There are lots of options out there if you're looking for a way to read digital copies of your favorite books. Here's a short list of other great e-readers. ZDNET Recommends

Oscar De La Hoya (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images)Getty ImagesOscar De La Hoya and Eddie Hearn are serious about the much-discussed 5v5 fight card between Golden Boy Promotions and Matchroom.What began as a few competitive barbs between the two promoters has materialized into conversations bordering on substance. I spoke with De La Hoya on Monday, November 11, and he confirmed the card's legitimacy and shared his target date for the event.According to De La Hoya, he would love "to take over Cinco de Mayo weekend" with this massive card. Something tells me the targeted date was no coincidence.Here is a look at the entire interview, including De La Hoya discussing Ryan Garcia's comeback fight, Latino Night in Riyadh on November 16, Clapback Thursday, and more.I spoke to De La Hoya about the apparent conflict the 5v5 show might have with his former fighter, Canelo Alvarez. Every year, Canelo looks to fight on Cinco de Mayo weekend in May and Mexican Independence Day in September.No one knows that better than De La Hoya, and because the two legends have turned into bitter rivals, I joked with the former about the episode of Clapback Thursday that would come that week as he looked to stick it to Canelo. The details of the 5v5 event have shifted a bit, but the core concepts remain intact.MORE FOR YOUThe one seemingly definitive about the matchups is Shakur Stevenson taking on William Zepeda. Expect Stevenson to be a heavy favorite in the fight because of his speed and defensive gifts.While Zepeda has proven to have excellent power with 27 KOs in 31 fights, he will almost certainly be a step slower than Stevenson. The other discussed fights for the 5v5 are Jaron Boots Ennis vs. Vergil Ortiz, the winner of Jose Ramirez-Arnold Barboza vs. Jack Catterall, Jai Opetaia vs. Gilberto Ramirez, and another fight that could include any of a group of fighters from the two promotions like Israil Madrimov, Oscar Duarte or Diego Pacheco.Many of the discussed fighters are scheduled to fight soon or have fought recently. Ennis scored a unanimous decision win over Karen Chukhadzhian on Saturday, though he looked vulnerable. Ramirez looks to unify the cruiserweight titles in the main event of November 16 Latino Night against Chris Billiam-Smith. Ramirez faces Barboza on the same card, and Catterall walked through former world champion Regis Prograis earlier this month.Duarte is also on the Latino Night card, facing Botirzhon Akhmedov. Madrimov is coming off a loss to Terence Crawford in August, and he faces Serhii Bohachuk on December 21. Bohachuk lost a controversial decision to Ortiz in his last fight. The timelines for every fighter rumored to be involved seemingly line up.As De La Hoya mentioned, it will come down to whether Turki Alalshikh believes in the concept and is willing to offer the same support that he has or past eventsincluding the five-v-five between Matchroom and Queensberry earlier this year. Stay tuned.

The RDE Wireless Micro is a tiny wireless microphone system for use with smartphones. Offering the ... [+] kind of audio quality RDE is known for, the new system is so easy to use.RDELast month, we saw the launch of Sennheisers new Profile Wireless Microphone System for content creators. This month, its the turn of RDE which has announced a tiny and easy-to-use wireless microphone thats perfect for making TikTok films or Instagram Reels.The RDE Wireless Micro uses the same 2.4GHz technology as Australian brands innovative Wireless GO system that revolutionized the consumer wireless microphone market and spawned countless copycat products from the likes of Boya, JDI, Saramonic and Anker, now in use by social media creatives all over the world.The new RDE Wireless Micro is tiny and has a clip-and-go design while offering professional audio quality. The system consists of two pocket-sized wireless microphone transmitters and is available in both black and white colorways, with specific versions for USB-C or Lightning smartphones.The RDE Wireless Micro consists of two tiny transmitter microphones and a compact receiver that ... [+] plugs into a smartphone.RDEThe kit also includes a slimline receiver that clips directly onto a smartphone interface without the need for any cables. The whole system is no bigger than the charging case for a pair of true wireless earbuds. You can put the RDE Wireless Micro in your pocket and be ready to make videos with great sound at a moments notice.MORE FOR YOUThe two ultra-compact transmitter units have integrated clips and magnetic attachments that make them easy when attachingf to a presenters clothing, but they are still small enough to hardly notice on screen, unlike the larger RDE wireless mics that many content creators already using.The built-in microphones in each of the two transmitters are housed in acoustic chambers using a patent-pending design that captures exceptionally clear audio and reduces wind noise when shooting outdoors. If the wind is howling, there are also fluffy windshields included to tame the gales.The transmitters and receiver of the RDE Wireless Micro fit into a compact charging case. RDEWith intelligent GainAssist technology, the RDE Wireless Micro mics get the recording level spot on without the need to make any fiddly settings. The microphones weigh just 12g and they are splashproof, which means they can handle a little bit of rain or humid conditions. When youre not shooting, the whole system is contained in a pocket-sized charging case where everything is kept safe and fully charged.The compact charging case for storing the mics and receiver in has enough power onboard for two full recharges of the mics, thats a total of 21 hours with the battery in the mics and in the case, which is enough to shoot throughout the day and into the night.The transmitters automatically pair with the RDE Wireless Micro receiver and are always ready to go within seconds by plugging the receiver into the smartphone and then start filming. There are no cables and you dont need to use a particular app to capture video and audio because the receiver automatically becomes the default mic for the smartphone when its connected.The RDE Wireless Micro is available in Black and White colorways. RDERDEs intelligent GainAssist technology automatically adjusts the recording levels on-the-fly and that does away with the need to monitor the settings via headphones when you should be concentrating on filming. GainAssist also eliminates the risk of clipped or quiet recordings and means theres no need to edit the sound during post-processing.So why would you want to use wireless mics like the RDE Wireless Micro when smartphones already have great microphones built in? Well, its all about consistent sound. As you move closer or further away from your subject, the sound levels change and other sounds can drown out the audio that you are trying to record. With wireless mics clipped onto your presenters clothing, you get consistent sound levels and close-up audio even when you are a long way back from your subject.The microphones have an omnidirectional pickup pattern for picking up sound from all around, making placement and audio capture easy. Along with GainAssist, this makes it almost impossible to capture poor-quality sound. Videos with bad audio are one of social medias biggest turn-offs and nothing gets people swiping left faster.The RDE Wireless Micro is available with USB-C or Lighting connectors but you have to decide which ... [+] especially if you are about to upgrade to an iPhone with USB-C connector in the future.RDEThe Wireless Micro is RDEs big push into the burgeoning market for consumer wireless microphones that is currently being fueled by creators producing content for social media platforms like YouTube, TikTok and Instagram. Unlike RDEs wireless mics which are aimed more towards moviemakers, the Wireless Micro doesnt include inputs for Lavalier mics and neither does the receiver have an output for feeding audio into an analog device. This is a wireless microphone system strictly for smartphones, which brings me to my one small criticism of the superb RDE Wireless Micro.RDE has decided to produce two versions of the Wireless Micro: one for USB-C and one for Apple Lightning smartphones. I would have preferred to see one product with adaptors for both types of interface because manyf people with Lightning iPhones may soon be upgrading to new iPhones with USB-C interfaces. So, think about which direction you are heading in. I would advise buying the USB-C version and get yourself a Lighting OTG-to-USB-C adapter as a transition solution then you dont need to worry when you upgrade to a new iPhone but can still use the RDE Wireless Micro with your ageing Lightning phone.Verdict: The RDE Wireless Micro is a super-convenient wireless microphone system for making TikTok, YouTube or Instagram content. The system is so simple to use and can be up and running in seconds. There are no frills or fancy features such as a Lavalier input or microphone monitoring, but for use with smartphones wireless mics dont come any more simple or easy to use. The audio quality is typical RDE quality with superbly clear capture and the GainAssist function works perfectly. If you want a wireless microphone system for your smartphone with two mics, then you cant go wrong with the RDE Wireless Micro. The price is pretty good too.Pricing & Availability: The RDE Wireless Micro is available now and priced at $149.Tech Specs:Polar pattern: Omnidirectional.Frequency range: 20Hz 20kHz.Maximum SPL: 135dB SPL.Equivalent Noise (A-Weighted): 21dBA.Signal-to-noise Ratio: 73dB.Transmission range: More than 100m.Connectivity: USB-C [for Wireless Micro (USB-C)] / Apple Lightning [for Wireless Micro (Lightning)].Operating System requirements: iOS 14 and above (for Lightning and USB-C) / Android 11 and above (for USB-C only).Battery capacity: 490mAh.Charging time: 3 hours.Total charges: 2 charges (extra 14 hours of operation).Connection type: USB-CTransmitters: x 2.Receiver: 1 x (USB-C or Lightning)Weight charging Case: 61g.Microphones: 12g / 18g (with magnet).Receiver: 6g.Combined weight: 102g.Mic dimensions: 40 x 20 x 17mm.Charging case dimensions: 44 x 24 x 9mm.Accessories: 1 x SC22 USB-C to USB-C Cable, Windshields.Colorways: Black or White.