Remember when it was nearly impossible to get your hands on a PS5? Those days are basically over now, which is only a good thing for gamers and those looking to get the console for the first time. Black Friday deals have even discounted the PS5 this year: PS5 Slim is available for $75 off at Amazon, Walmart, Target, Sony and other retailers. You can get the digital edition for $375, or the disc-based model for $425. While we wouldnt call this a budget console, these deals make it just a bit more affordable and an ideal time to see what all the PS5 fuss is about if you dont have one yet. Despite the moniker, theres nothing slim about the specs. This is a regular PS5, with the same horsepower as the original unit. However, the PS5 Slim is 30 percent smaller and around 25 percent lighter. When it comes to tech, smaller is typically a good thing. Both versions ship with a DualSense controller and a 1TB SSD. These consoles also come with Astros Playroom pre-installed, which is the precursor to the incredible Astro Bot. They dont, however, come with a vertical stand. Thatll cost extra. The digital-only model, obviously, doesnt ship with a disc drive, though theres a standalone drive available for those who would rather make that decision later. Otherwise, this is a PS5. Theres no other way (right now) to play games like Marvel's Spider-Man 2 and The Last of Us Part 2 Remastered. It also runs cross-platform hits like Star Wars Outlaws and Elden Ring, in addition to pseudo-exclusives that made their way to PC like God of War Ragnark. This sale is not for the recently-released PS5 Pro, so you wont get all of those graphical upscaling bells and whistles. However, that new console is a whopping $700, whereas these PS5 Slim consoles are just over half that. And we'd be remiss if we didn't also mention the sale happening on DualSense Wireless Controllers that work with PS5 consoles; you can pick them up starting at just $54 a piece at Amazon and Sony. Check out all of the latest Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals here.This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/deals/black-friday-ps5-deals-grab-the-slim-console-for-75-off-080645152.html?src=rss

If you're looking to treat yourself or a loved one to a new laptop without breaking the bank, there are plenty of early Black Friday deals worth considering. Even better, there's a discount on what we reckon is the best laptop for most people and the best laptop for college students. Apple's M3 MacBook Air with 16GB of RAM has dropped to its lowest price to date. The laptop is available for $849, which is $250 off the list price (some color options are even down to $844). Apple just released its first M4-powered Macs, but it has yet to slot the latest chip into the MacBook Air. The 13-inch MBA's blend of power and portability makes it a potent choice and we gave it a score of 90 in our review. It delivers fast performance and has a killer display. The design is sleek and sturdy and it sounds great thanks to a quad-speaker array. We like the trackpad and keyboard as well, while the upgrade to Wi-Fi 6E connectivity is a definite plus. Our main quibble is that the USB-C ports are on the same side of the unit as the one for the charger having even one USB-C on the right side would be handy. But that's a minor complaint about an otherwise terrific laptop. If you're willing to go with a slightly older (but no less capable) processor, the M2 MacBook Air with 16GB of RAM and 256GB of storage has dropped to $749 another record-low price. Check out all of the latest Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals here.This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/deals/black-friday-apple-deals-include-the-m3-mackbook-air-with-16gb-of-ram-for-an-all-time-low-price-180617468.html?src=rss

Looking for NYT Connections answers and hints? Here's all you need to know to solve today's game, plus my commentary on the puzzles.

Huawei is pairing its supercharged SSD with tape storage in response to US export restrictions.

The Department of Justice is pushing a federal judge to make Google divest its Chrome internet browser as a remedy following the antitrust case.

Despite nearly doubling sales year on year, Nvidia's third-quarter results show a slowdown from previous quarters.

Maintaining a comprehensive library of high-quality stock footage is essential for professional VFX artists and studios. This Black Friday, FX Elements is offering its most substantial discounts ever, with savings of up to 70% across its entire catalog of professional VFX assets.With categories of effects ranging from explosions to bullet hits and blood effects, to atmospheric smoke and fog and everything in between, FX Elements delivers a comprehensive library of effects to choose from. Lets take a look at the offer and why this is the VFX sale you dont want to miss!Whats on Sale?FX Elements is slashing prices across its entire catalog, making it easier than ever to build your VFX assets library: 70% OFF Individual FX Clips: Choose the exact effects you need with prices starting at less than $3. 40% OFF FX Subscriptions: Lock in lifetime savings and get full access to all FX Elements library of assets. 30% OFF All FX Packs: Bundled effects for all your creative needs at a fraction of the cost.These discounts cover every license type and file type, so you can create worry-free, whether youre producing for a big screen or social media.Browse FX Elements LibraryWhat Sets FX Elements Apart?FX Elements has earned a reputation for providing VFX artists with high-quality, flexible, and easy-to-use VFX assets for over 10 years. Heres what you can expect:No Subscription Required: While our FX Subscription remains the best value available anywhere, we will never force our customers to subscribe or use a credit-based system.4K8K Resolution Footage: Enjoy the clarity and flexibility needed for professional projects, no matter how large the screen.Broad Compatibility: All effects come in multiple file formats, making them easy to integrate with virtually any workflow.Immediate Downloads: Start using your purchased assets within minutesno waiting around.Versatility for All Projects: From film production to YouTube content, FX Elements library has something for every artist and creator.Dont Miss out!This Black Friday sale is a rare opportunity to access professional-grade assets at a fraction of the cost. With discounts applied automatically at checkout, theres no hasslejust big savings.But dont wait! These deals are only available until December 2nd, 2024.Get started with FX Elements today!Brought to you by FX Elements:This article is part of the befores & afters VFX Insight series. If youd like to promote your VFX/animation/CG tech or service, you can find out more about the VFX Insight series here.The post Black Friday Deal: Up to 70% OFF Premium VFX Assets at FX Elements! appeared first on befores & afters.

Have you ever had your patience sorely tested by an overly inquisitive child?You know the type:No matter what you say to them, they always respond with the same question: Why?Is it simply the repetition we find so annoying, or is it something more than that? Maybe its our own insecurity over not having adequate answers to their questions. Or perhaps were disappointed with ourselves because, somewhere along the way, weve lost our own sense of curiosity and wonder?To be more generous, that annoyance might actually be a sign of our own maturity. At some point in our intellectual development, we realize we cant know everything.Once that happens, we subconsciously shift our focus to prioritize which information we deem important enough to acquire and process.In contrast, children are like sponges, absorbing everything. They flourish under the guidance of responsible teachers well trained in the established principles of pedagogy. But eventually, we outgrow the pedagogical methods that foster cognitive growth in young people.Our success in the next stage of development depends on this weeks addition to the Ethical Lexicon:Andragogy (andragogy/ an-druh-goh-jee) nounThe method, technique, and practice of teaching adult learners; adult educationIt was education visionary Malcolm Knowles who adopted and developed the principles of andragogy over half a century ago. Expounding on the self-motivation essential for adult learning, Knowles said:This fact makes the task of every leader of adult groups real, specific, and clear: Every adult group, of whatever nature, must become a laboratory of democracy, a place where people may have the experience of learning to live cooperatively. Attitudes and opinions are formed primarily in the study groups, work groups, and playgroups with which adults affiliate voluntarily.Its more than a clich that the answer is almost always in the room. By engaging people with diverse viewpoints in pursuit of knowledge and wisdom, in purposeful enterprise, or even recreationally, we expand our experience while gaining new insights about others and about ourselves. Implicit in Bob Dylans observation that he who is not busy being born is busy dying is the awareness that learning is part of living.Steve Graham, president of Valiant Coaching & Talent Development, lays out the key pillars of andragogy, which include:A maturing self-concept: In which individuals take the initiative, with or without the help of others, in diagnosing their learning needs, formulating learning goals, identifying human and material resources for learning, choosing and implementing appropriate learning strategies, and evaluating learning outcomes.Increasing experience: Provides a wider and deeper reservoir of reference points for more reliable intuitive understanding and decision-making.An increasing readiness to learn: Empowers us to step into new roles by recognizing what information we lack and seeking out the knowledge we need to handle unfamiliar situations and responsibilities.A shifting application and orientation: We work out how to solve problems as we encounter them and immediately apply acquired knowledge to next-level challenges.An internal motivation to learn: This has popularly become known as a growth mindset. Instead of being compelled to learn, adults cultivate the desire to know more about the world and to understand more deeply while developing new skills and talents.A solid application of andragogical principles produces a more mature understanding of self, greater empathy and respect toward others, a more dynamic attitude toward life in general, a more responsive and less reactive approach to challenge and conflict, and the confidence and competence to affect positive cultural and societal change.Leadership and education are not synonymous. Yet leaders teach by example, whether they choose to or not. Creating a culture built on the values of inquiry, self-improvement, and personal growth will naturally encourage your people to pursue the greater knowledge and deeper wisdom that promotes self-mastery. Providing them with the tools and resources to turn the desire to learn into action will earn you loyal, motivated, and highly competent followers.To assess whether youre sending the right message to your people, ask yourself the following questions:Do my people feel comfortable voicing concerns and asking for clarification?Do they try to solve their own problems or wait for someone senior to tell them what to do?Do I praise and reward initiative and innovation as much as meticulous adherence to protocol?Have I provided engaging opportunities for learning and development within the structure of work time?Does my work community project a sense of enthusiasm or drudgery?An andragogical culture is alive and vibrant, buzzing with the same positive energy that emanates from every healthy, living thing. If you feel the electricity of continuous growth, thats a good sign that youve fostered a work environment driven by excitement and purpose. But if that feeling is lacking, it may be time to ask questions and find new ways to motivate your people to challenge the status quo by expanding their horizons. In all likelihood, they will rise to the occasion, and the benefits will become obvious almost overnight.

A stark reality check looms for Americas 33 million small businesses: While campaign promises suggest dramatic economic shifts, market indicators tell a different story. This disconnectbetween political rhetoric and market expectationscreates both uncertainty and opportunity for SMBs, which represent 43.5% of U.S. GDP and employ nearly half of private-sector workers.While Trump touts lower interest rates, aggressive tariffs, and mass deportations, the reality may look different. Markets are anticipating more restrained changes. It is this gapbetween ambitious promises and realistic expectationsthat will most affect small businesses. So, what does this mean for American small businesses caught in the middle?Interest rates: The Feds independence vs. political promisesDespite presidents historically having limited influence over the Federal Reserve, Trump has repeatedly promised lower interest rates if he returns to power. He also claims that U.S. energy independenceachieved primarily by drilling domesticallywill curb inflation.The reality is that the Federal Reserve acts independently of political pressures and is not beholden to any presidency. The recent quarter-point rate drop in November was an exception rather than a trend. With inflationary pressures still looming, the Fed is unlikely to lower rates as quickly as Trump hopes. Furthermore, achieving true energy independence is not only improbable but also disruptive to global markets.For small businesses, borrowing costs remain highcurrently around 6.5%, compared to under 3% in November 2021. A Trump presidency is unlikely to reverse these market trends. Inflation continues to limit consumer spending power, and mortgage rates already increased following the election.With tightened consumer spending and limited presidential influence over the Fed (as Chair Powell remains steadfast), interest rates are only going to dip if inflation metrics change dramatically from here. Elevated borrowing costs will continue to hinder SMBs ability to secure affordable loans and grow. Coupled with persistent inflation pressures, this points to a stingy winter season ahead.Tariffs: A hidden tax on small business growthAnother Trump 2.0 promise is a massive increase in tariffs10% to 20% on all imports, with even higher rates for China. The assumption is that discouraging imports will drive domestic production. However, history suggests the opposite.Even a more modest 10% increase in tariffs could raise inflation by 0.8%, disrupt supply chains, and elevate costs for U.S. manufacturers and consumers alike. Higher labor costs will amplify these challenges, impacting everyone from everyday consumers to corporations.Markets are preparing for the worst but expecting more modest tariffs, especially in key industries. During Trumps first term, tariffs on thousands of products led to $80 billion in new taxes, creating significant burdens for businesses and consumers. The cumulative impact amounted to $380 billion in 2018 and 2019, marking one of the largest tax increases in recent years.If history repeats itself, small businesses, especially the 75% of which depend on imports, will face rising operational costs, supply chain challenges, and reduced profit margins. Even a modest tariff increase could squeeze SMBs, forcing many to pass higher costs onto consumers or absorb the losses themselves.The worst-case scenario for small businesses is clearly Trumps tariff tantrum, but even modest tariffs could strain profit margins.Immigration policy: The true cost of labor-market disruptionPerhaps the most extreme promise in Trumps second term is the largest deportation campaign in U.S. history. Vice President-elect JD Vance has stated that more than 11 million undocumented immigrants will be deported within six monthsa logistical and economic nightmare that could deeply impact industries reliant on immigrant labor.The American Immigration Council estimates that it would cost $315 billion to arrest, detain, and deport all individuals living undocumented or under a revocable temporary status. Not to mention, the disruption to labor markets would be enormous.If Trump accomplishes even half of this campaign, the employment market will feel the strain. Many industriesincluding hospitality, agriculture, and constructiondepend on immigrant labor. During the height of the pandemic, immigrant workers helped fill critical labor shortages, prompting job growth and curbing inflation. Removing this essential workforce could lead to severe labor shortages, hindering profitability and growth potential for SMBs across key sectors.Trumps extreme policies could mean a challenging environment for small businesseshigher costs, labor shortages, and strained profit margins. Historically, small businesses have shown resilience, yet adapting to higher tariffs, elevated interest rates, and reduced immigrant labor will require rapid adjustment.Given the unprecedented nature of these promises, the outcomes remain uncertain. Borrowing costs, consumer spending, and labor availability will be pivotal. Trump often says one thing and does another, leaving some hope that the actual policies will be less extreme. However, SMBs should prepare for potential challenges by diversifying revenue streams, optimizing operations, and maintaining liquidity to weather the potential storm.

US company The Pelvic People has designed Kiwi, a multipurpose vibrator for people who experience pain during sex, which is shortlisted in the product design (health and wellbeing) category of the Dezeen Awards 2024.Kiwi, which can be used as both a vibrator and massage tool, was designed to eliminate entry pain and help people enjoy sex. The product has a non-phallic, curved shape with a subtly waved surface to accommodate anatomical variety, and was designed to invite shallow penetration.Its ergonomic form facilitates different massage methods, with two vibration motors to allow for both blood flow and stimulation.Kiwi is a multipurpose vibrator designed to eliminate pain during sexPrompted by research and observation into women's experiences with painful sex, Kiwi was developed alongside more than 90 pelvic specialists."We were confronted with the reality that we needed to take a bio-psycho-social approach to solve a systemic problem a human problem without obvious answers," The Pelvic People CEO Emily Sauer told Dezeen."Seventy-five per cent of women will have painful sex during their lifetime, a challenge often ignored and with limited, antiquated at-home treatment options. Kiwi was designed to bridge the uncharted gap between 'sex toy' and 'medical device'."It also doubles as a massager to alleviate pelvic painBeyond the intention to promote pleasure during sex, Kiwi also hopes to contribute to healing and recovery from negative sexual experiences."Kiwi breaks the fear-induced pain cycle bringing control and enjoyment into the healing process," said Sauer. "It is the missing piece in a clinical toolkit that can often feel like punishment; Kiwi makes progress feel good."The design was designed for shallow entryThe company also hopes the vibrator will help create positive sexual experiences."It takes bravery for people to make a first step toward their pelvic health," Sauer said."When tools orient around one purpose often penetration and our body doesn't meet the demands imposed by that device, we're often left deeply disappointed in ourselves not the device."Read: Coby Huang's sex education toys are designed to explore what brings us pleasureThe Pelvic People also hopes to highlight the lack of services for pelvic health in the US."It's is a missing piece of the systemic puzzle. In the US, for every 4,000 people who need help there is only one pelvic physical therapist available," said Sauer."For folks who can't get to a pelvic specialist for geographic or financial reasons, Kiwi is an accessible and trustworthy place to start."Kiwi aims to break taboos around seeking help for pelvic health and negative sexual experiencesThe tool comes with educational content, including guided videos, to promote conversation and knowledge about health and sex."It would be irresponsible for us to hand someone a user manual solely with directions on how to turn a product on and off," said Sauer."The lack of education around pelvic health has already stripped an entire population of our ability to make empowered decisions about our health. Knowledge is power."Kiwi is shortlisted in the product design (health and wellbeing) category of the Dezeen Awards 2024The Pelvic People is working to continue to produce products that can aid vulnerabilities surrounding sex."While we do have future products in the pipeline, we're also dedicated to contributing to the scientific community with validated research," Sauer said.Other sex-positive products that have been featured on Dezeen include a vibrator that doubles as an artificial insemination device and a massager for women going through menopause.The post Kiwi intends to "bridge the gap between sex toy and medical device" appeared first on Dezeen.