In a workshop for a secondary school in Ostend, the Belgian duo use simple strategic moves to solve complex spatial problemsNWLND Rogiers Vandeputte was shortlisted for the AR Emerging awards 2024. Read about the full shortlist here When approaching a new project, NWLND Rogiers Vandeputte founders BertRogiers and Pieter Vandeputte are likely to pass over cups of pens and teal iMacs stationed at their desks to reach instead for Occams razor the principle that the simplest available solution is also usually the best.Often in NWLNDs projects (pronounced New Land) , this means deriving one key idea to unlock a series ofknockon benefits. For the addition ofanursery building to an existing primary school in Ghent, currently in early planning stages, the architects began by challenging an inherited masterplan that proposed twosets of administrative rooms one forthenursery and another for the school. Bycombining the duplicated functions, NWLND liberated space in the nursery to become additional classrooms for the school. This is more than just an act of spatial efficiency; theextra capacity will mean that no student isdisplaced to a substandard temporary classroom during the works. Architecture is not only about anice window opening or a sculptural element, says Rogiers. It is about finding asystem.Such a system was formulated in the studios designs for Atelier PPW, a workshop for a secondary school in Ostend. At either end of the building, outdoor staircases provide circulation toupper storeys and to neighbouring buildings, connected by adeck. This separation of auxiliary and primary functions aims at longevity through flexibility; the precast concrete columns are strong enough to support an additional floor if later required, while the circulation structures already extend to the current roof level. Even inside, the floor layouts can adapt to changing spatial demands. An offtheshelf solution ofinternal walls can be moved by students and teachers, and external doors open onto the deck at regular intervals to support all manner of changing layouts inside.The vivid green recalls buildings by James Stirling, but NWLND aretoo unpretentious toaccept the referenceIn NWLNDs early portfolio of private houses, shop fitouts and office buildings, such rigorous spatial solutions are hidden inplain sight affecting how their buildings are lived and worked in, but rarely making ashow of it. For a building such as Atelier PPW, however, in which students will learn how to construct buildings, the practice hasgained a more expressive aesthetic licence. While Atelier PPWs concrete frameis pigmented in the brickred of itssurrounding context, the circulation structures are painted in a vivid green, recalling buildings by James Stirling and recapitulated by contemporary architects such as David Kohn, but NWLND are far too unpretentious to accept the reference. Instead, the architects insist that the colours serve as a diagram of two contrasting construction methods working together to fulfil maximum spatial value. Forthe students inside, it is surely a helpful example.

Published November 28, 2024 6:00am EST | Updated November 28, 2024 2:28pm EST close Dont get tricked by Amazon impersonation scams this holiday season Bad actors will be trying to steal information like Social Security numbers, bank details and Amazon account credentials. Black Friday is around the corner, and by the time you finish your Thanksgiving leftovers, Christmas will already be knocking. That might be an exaggeration, but whats not is the rise in impersonation scams as the holiday season approaches.With shopping in full swing, Amazon becomes an especially big target. Expect to see bad actors pretending to be trusted contacts, trying to access sensitive information like Social Security numbers, bank details or Amazon account credentials.To help you enjoy a scam-free shopping experience this holiday season, we spoke with Scott Knapp, VP of Worldwide Buyer Risk Prevention at Amazon, to learn how scammers impersonate the platform, what Amazon is doing to fight holiday scams and how you can stay safe. A woman shopping on the Amazon app (Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson)The most common Amazon impersonation scamsAmazon is the worlds largest e-commerce platform, and it becomes even more relevant during the holiday season. With so many of us hunting for deals, scammers are well aware and ready to take advantage. They often use impersonation scams to trick shoppers into handing over card details or other sensitive information."During the 2023 holiday shopping season (Black Friday through Christmas Day), the most commonly reported impersonation scam by Amazon customers involved fake order or shipping confirmations claiming that payment was required in the U.S. There was nearly a 1.5x increase in reports of this scam from three weeks prior," Knapp said.Another common impersonation scam around this time involves fake purchase alerts for popular tech products. Knapp said that Amazon saw about a 13x spike in customer reports compared to three weeks earlier. A woman shopping on Amazon on her laptop (Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson)What is Amazon doing to keep customers safe?Its clear that many scammers are trying to target Amazon customers, so I wanted to understand what the company is doing to keep them safe. I asked Knapp a bunch of questions about how the e-tail giant is staying ahead of the latest online holiday scams, and you can read his responses below.How is Amazon working to take down phishing websites and phone numbers used in impersonation schemes?"Our goal is to ensure that customers are protected when they shop on Amazon. That is why we are initiating the takedown of scammers with public-private partnerships to hold bad actors accountable. We have a team including machine learning scientists and expert investigators who protect our store and consumers from fraud and other forms of abuse."In 2023 alone, we initiated takedowns of more than 40,000 phishing websites and 10,000 phone numbers being used as part of impersonation schemes. We can take down reported scam phone numbers the same day and phishing websites in just a couple of hours. We also partner with law enforcement across the globe to ensure scammers are held accountable, including having referred hundreds of bad actors to authorities."CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR LIFESTYLE NEWSLETTERCan you explain how Amazon's email verification technology helps identify phishing attempts?"Weve made it harder for bad actors to impersonate Amazon communications through implementing industry-leading tools, including the adoption of a secure email capability to make it easier for customers to identify authentic emails from Amazon and avoid phishing attempts. Customers using Gmail, Yahoo, and other common email providers can be confident that when they receive an @amazon.com email with the smile logo in their inbox, that email is really from us."Can you explain Amazon's A-to-z Guarantee and how it protects holiday shoppers?"More than 60% of sales in Amazons store are from independent sellersmost of which are small and medium-sized businessesproviding a vast selection of amazing products, competitive prices, and convenience for consumers. When customers shop in the Amazon store, they can do so with peace of mind knowing that we stand behind the products sold in our store with theA-to-Z Guarantee."When a claim is filed, Amazon combines our advanced fraud and abuse detection systems with external, independent insurance specialists to analyze filings, take on the investigative work for our selling partners, present valid claims, and deny unsubstantiated, frivolous, or abusive claims. By doing this work on behalf of sellers, we save them from having to investigate these claims on their own. Innovating this process enables customers to shop confidently, which in turn drives selling partner success."Amazons protection applies to physical products purchased in our store worldwide, and in the unlikely event that customers experience issues with timely delivery or the condition of their purchase, whether purchased from Amazon or one of our approximately two million selling partners, Amazon will make it right by refunding or replacing it.Whether during the holiday shopping season, or anytime throughout the year, customers can confidently shop Amazons vast selection of amazing products with the A-to-z Guarantee." Image of Amazon website (Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson)How can Amazon customers stay safe?1. Watch out for red flags:Some telltale signs of an impersonation scam include requests for account or payment information and creating a false sense of urgency. Amazon will never ask for your password, payment or bank transfer through phone, email or any external website. Scammers might reference a purchase (real or fake), a giveaway, a prize or claim that "your account is locked," urging you to click a link, make a payment or buy a gift card.2. Verify the email: For any questions related to an order, always check your order history on Amazon.com or via the "Amazon Shopping" app. Only legitimate purchases will appear in your order history. If you are ever unsure about the legitimacy of an email, go to Amazons website or app to access the Message Center and review authentic communications.In addition, you should always check the senders email address by hovering over the "From" name and verify its a genuine Amazon email, which will come from "@amazon.com."GET FOX BUSINESS ON THE GO BY CLICKING HERE An Amazon email (Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson)3. Beware of phishing links: Avoid clicking on random links, especially in messages about shopping deals, order confirmations or account issues. Scammers often use fake links to mimic legitimate retailers and steal your information.The best way to safeguard yourself from malicious links is to have antivirus software installed on all your devices. This protection can also alert you to phishing emails and ransomware scams, keeping your personal information and digital assets safe.Get my picks for the best 2024 antivirus protection winners for your Windows, Mac, Android and iOS devices.4. Dont fall for "too good to be true" offers: Scammers often lure victims with irresistible deals, such as huge discounts on popular products or "exclusive" offers. If an offer seems too good to be true, it probably is. These offers might be tied to fake websites or phishing attempts designed to steal your personal and financial details. Always double-check the legitimacy of any deal before making a purchase. If youre unsure, visit the official Amazon site or app to search for the product and compare prices.5. Use a personal data removal service: Scammers can obtain your information from various online sources, including data brokers, people search sites and public records. Using a data removal service can help reduce your digital footprint, making it harder for scammers to access your personal information. This proactive step can be crucial in preventing identity theft and minimizing the chances of falling victim to scams during the busy holiday season.While no service promises to remove all your data from the internet, having a removal service is great if you want to constantly monitor and automate the process of removing your information from hundreds of sites continuously over a longer period of time.Check out my top picks for data removal services here.6. Report suspicious activity: If you encounter an impersonation scam, your best course of action is to report it to Amazon. Knapp says,"The more consumers report scams to us, the better our tools get at identifying bad actors so that we can take action against them and protect consumers. If consumers suspect that they have encountered a scam, they can report suspicious communications to us at amazon.com/ReportAScam, so that we can protect their accounts and refer bad actors to law enforcement to help keep consumers safe."Kurts key takeawayScammers will do their best to ruin your holiday season, but most of their tactics can be easily avoided with the right tools and a little common sense. Be cautious of unsolicited texts, emails or phone calls offering deals, discounts or asking for your personal information. If you're shopping on Amazon, track everything through the Amazon app and reach out to their customer support for any concerns or questions.CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APPWhat features or tools do you wish online retailers would implement to enhance customer security during peak shopping times? Let us know by writing us at Cyberguy.com/Contact.For 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:Try CyberGuy's new games (crosswords, word searches, trivia and more!)Enter CyberGuy's $500 Holiday Gift Card SweepstakesBest gifts for Men |Women |Kids |Teens |Pet loversCopyright 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.

Nearly every Apple Watch is on sale for Black Friday, and the Ultra 2 hasn't been left out. Snag one for a whopping $179 off at Amazon.

Black Friday is hours away, and whether you're looking to score deals on around-the-house must-haves or gifts for friends and family, this is one of the best times of year to get discounts on everything you may be looking for.Also:The best Black Friday deals: Live updatesIf one of those gifts you have in mind (for yourself or a loved one) is a Kindle, Black Friday is the time to buy one: Amazon runs deep discounts on its e-readers and Kindle accessories during these deals events, including on some of the brand-new Kindle models that just came out. That includes the ever-popular Kindle Paperwhite (the base model Kindle's bigger sister), the new Kindle Scribe that hasn't even come out yet, and the tried-and-true Kindle base model.I have been obsessed with my Kindle. It's allowed me to read anything from anywhere (with the help of library e-book loans, of course). I follow Kindle deals all year long and have rounded up the best early Black Friday Kindle deals we've found so far here.Shop at Amazon Nina Raemont/ZDNETOur favorite Kindle deals for Black Friday 2024Kindle Paperwhite: $130 (save $30 at Amazon): The Kindle Paperwhite is a delightful fit for people who are already sold on e-readers and want one with a longer battery (12 weeks) and a responsive display.New Kindle base model: $85 (save $25 at Amazon): This is the Kindle most people should buy if they're looking for their first e-reader.New Kindle Essentials Bundle: $117 (save $45 at Amazon): The base model Kindle is what I'd recommend to most people if they've never owned an e-reader before. This bundle packages the Kindle, a case, and a power adapter together.New Kindle Paperwhite Signature Edition: $155 (save $45 at Amazon): The Kindle Paperwhite Signature Edition promises more storage for your favorite books with 32GB, compared to the non-Signature Edition's 16GB.New Kindle Paperwhite Signature Edition Essentials Bundle: $200 (save $83 at Amazon): This bundle packages the Kindle Paperwhite (with 32GB of storage) with a wireless charging dock and a case.New Kindle Scribe Essentials Bundle: $480 (save $60 at Amazon): You can already get Amazon's brand-new Kindle Scribe at a discount if you opt for the Essentials Bundle. It comes with a leather cover and a power adapter, too.New Kindle Kids: $95 (save $35 at Amazon): This e-reader is designed for your tot and comes with a no-questions-asked return policy. If your kid breaks it, Kindle will replace it.Kindle Paperwhite Kids: $140 (save $40 at Amazon): The Kindle Paperwhite for kids offers more battery life and a faster display.Kindle Oasis (International Version): $135 (save $135 at Amazon): Save 50% on a Kindle Oasis with an ergonomic handrest and page-turn buttons (but note that this deal applies to those outside the US only).Kindle Paperwhite Signature Edition: $238 (save $20 at Amazon): The 2022 Kindle Paperwhite Signature Edition comes with a fabric cover and a charging dock.Kindle Paperwhite Signature Edition Essentials Bundle: $245 (save $20 at Amazon): This 2022 Kindle Paperwhite is two years old, but if you aren't interested in purchasing the newer Kindle and want a good deal on an e-reader and charging dock, this is a solid pick. The Paperwhite is also our tested pick forthe best Kindle overall.Kindle Paperwhite Charging Dock: $23 (save $10): Wirelessly charge your Paperwhite with this device that's $10 off.Kindle Scribe Slimshell Case: $19 (save $17): If you just purchased the new Kindle Scribe, this case is fit for it and at a 47% discount right now.Base Model Kindle Case: $10 (save $20): This cover is for the base model Kindle--and is 67% off. It fits both the new base model that came out in 2024 and the 2022 model.Amazon Fire Max 11: $175 (save $90): Maybe you don't just want an e-reader, but also something you can check emails and watch videos on. This is one of our favorite Fire tablets, and offers all those capabilities for nearly the same price as a Kindle Paperwhite. Nina Raemont/ZDNET Current price: $117Original price: $162I've tested a few e-readers in my day but I've found that the new base model Kindle proves the most useful for most people. It's the lightest and most compact Kindle out of the lineup, with a six-inch display that I can fit into my coat pocket and a six-week battery life that makes charging a breeze. I've loved reading my novels on it on the go, and with such an agreeable price (and a$45 discount), I know it will be a great present for the bookworm in your life. View now at Amazon Maria Diaz/ZDNET Current price: $130Original price: $160The Kindle Paperwhite is a boosted version of the Kindle base model. It's got double the battery life at 12 weeks (compared to the base model's six weeks), 16GB of storage, and a speedy display. View now at Amazon Nina Raemont/ZDNET Current price: $175Original price: $350This deal is reserved for readers outside of the US, since this Kindle Oasis is an international version. I tried out the Kindle Oasis, and enjoyed how pocketable it was -- I stashed it in my coat pocket to read on the subway, on park benches, and while hanging at home. This Kindle Oasis is the only model in the lineup with an ergonomic handrest, which makes the e-reader easy to read with one hand. Plus, it's got page turning buttons, if you're into that. View now at Amazon Kindle/ZDNET Current price: $480Original price: $540The new Kindle Scribe will be released on Dec. 4, but if you're already sold on it, you can get the e-reader that doubles as an e-notebook for $60 off through this essentials bundle. The Kindle Scribe comes with a redesigned, flush-front 300-ppi display, built-in AI features, and a Premium Pen. The new Kindle Scribe comes in two fun colors, metallic jade and tungsten. View now at Amazon Kindle/ZDNET Current price: $23Original price: $33Forget the USB cord. Charge your Kindle Paperwhite with this charging dock instead, now $10 off. View now at Amazon Black Friday Kindle accessories deals Kayla Solino/ZDNETKindle Paperwhite Charging Dock for $23 (save $10): Wirelessly charge your Paperwhite with this device that's $10 off.Strapsicle Kindle E-reader Holderfor $17 (save $4 on Amazon): This band straps on to the back of your Kindle to create a steady grip while you read.CoBak 6-inch Kindle Case for $8 (save 12): This leather smart cover has auto wake and auto sleep support for your Kindle, making it a top choice - and it's available in tons of colors.Kindle Scribe Slimshell Case for $19 (save $17): If you just purchased the new Kindle Scribe, this case is a great fit at a 47% discount right now.Kindle Case in Denim for $27 (save $5): This light green Kindle case will go wonderfully with the new Matcha Kindle color.Base Model Kindle Case for $10 (save $20): This cover is for the base model Kindle. It fits both the new base model that came out in 2024 and the 2022 model.CoBak Clear Kindle Case for $6 (save $4): This case fits the new Kindle Paperwhite and Kindle Colorsoft.Black Friday Kindle rival dealsAmazon Fire Max 11 for $175 (save $90): If you want an e-reader that you can also use as a tablet, consider this discount on the Amazon Fire Max 11, which is nearly the same price as a Kindle Paperwhite.Refurbished Amazon Fire HD 8 tablet for $75 (save $35): At less than $100, this refurbished Fire HD 8 tablet is far less expensive than any Kindle -- on sale or not -- and you can access the Kindle app on the tablet to read your ebooks. Amazon Fire HD 8 Kids Tablet for $65 (save $75): Whether your little one is reading their very first book or playing word and number games, they can do it all with this tablet.FAQsWhen is Black Friday 2024?Black Friday is Nov. 29, though you can expect some products to be discounted a few days ahead and after the deals event. Deals will likely run from Black Friday through Cyber Monday, Dec. 2.Are Kindles really cheaper on Black Friday?For some Kindle products, 100% yes. We've seen Amazon slash the prices on Kindle Scribes and other models during its Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals events in the past. Your best bet is to buy one during these events when the deals are more substantial.So, is Black Friday or Cyber Monday the better time to buy? Historically, I've seen the same discounts run throughout the entirety of a deals event. For example, on Prime Day, the discounts on Kindles stayed the same over the two days. They drop especially low during these events and return to their normal prices once the event ends (or once they go out of stock).Why should I get a Kindle?So you aren't quite sold on buying another piece of tech, let alone a piece of tech that replaces physical books (I mean, who has a problem with physical books?). I get it, and I was there with you. But let's break this down. Kindles offer a portable reading solution, and most models are thin and compact enough to fit in your pocket. That means you can take them on the go (like I have on the subway) and read practically anywhere. It's great if you wiz through books and don't have enough space on your bookshelves to store another title -- the ereaders offer enough storage for thousands of book titles. Plus, ebooks tend to be less expensive than physical copies, if you opt to buy these ebooks, so you end up saving a few extra dollars. The Kindle is even more cost-effective if you rent ebooks from your library. In fact, I've used my library card far more on ebooks than on physical books because of my Kindle's portability and ability to bring more titles with me in one sleek and light tablet.How long does my Kindle last?If you take care of your Kindle, it is sturdy enough to last for the long haul. I've had friends who have had their Kindles for over eight years with no issues. Sure, they're not as speedy as the most modern models, but it's an e-reader after all. If you want speed, read something off your iPhone.How can I get ebooks for free?Websites like Project Gutenberg, Open Library, Internet Archive, and Free eBooks offer, you guessed it, free ebooks that you can download to your Kindle and read. Another underrated but obvious way of getting ebooks for free is by renting them from your local library. I've rented so many Emily Henry romance novels through my local library and love reading them out and about on my Kindle.Will the Kindle Colorsoft get a Black Friday discount?So far, it doesn't seem like it. Every other model, from the new Paperwhite, Kindle Scribe, to the base model, has gotten a discount. But as our resident Kindle expert, I'll be monitoring its price over Black Friday and will write something up if we see a discount drop.How did we choose these Black Friday 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 shop anywhere for Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals, but the major retailers, like Amazon, Walmart, Best Buy, and Target, will boast the most (and sometimes, the best) deals.What are the best Black Friday 2024 deals?ZDNET's experts have been searching through Black Friday sales live now to find the best discounts by category. These are the best Black Friday deals so far, by category:Top holiday deals

Oppo Find X8 Pro backPrakhar KhannaAfter limiting the last two flagships to China, Oppos Find X series is returning to the global stage in style. The Oppo Find X8 Pro is as feature-packed as a slab phone can get: four 50MP cameras, a flagship processor, big battery, and a top-notch display its got everything, at least on paper. Ive been using it for the last 10 days, and heres how the on-paper specs translate to real-world usage.More Mainstream Design And A New ButtonOppo Find X8 Pro displayPrakhar KhannaThe Oppo Find X8 Pro features a new, more mainstream design language. We no longer get a leather-back variant, with only Space Black and Pearl White color options available. I like the latter for its texture-like finish on one-third of the phone. It feels similar to the OnePlus 11 Marble Odyssey in terms of in-hand feel. Its soft and not slippery.While Oppo has opted to go mainstream on the outside, the Find X8 Pro is 0.7mm slimmer and 6g lighter while packing a bigger battery. It might not be as stylish as before, but its more comfortable to hold and use. The weight distribution is better, so it doesnt feel top-heavy. Notably, the camera housing is thinner as well.There are a few buttons on the phone. On the left side, you get an alert slider to toggle between ring, vibrate, and silent modes. Theres no Private Mode like the Oppo Find N3 Fold or OnePlus Open Apex Edition, which is fine, as I prefer having sound profile toggles on my alert slider. On the right, you get the volume rockers, a power button, and a Quick Button, similar to the Camera Control on the iPhone 16 series.The Quick Button is limited in functionality. As of now, you can only use it to click images and zoom (which is inverted compared to the iPhone 16) in landscape orientation. The zooming functionality doesnt work when holding the phone vertically. You can also use it to trigger the camera with a double press and quick shutter with a single press. I like it better than Apples Camera Control, but it doesnt bring any new (or easier) use cases.MORE FROMFORBES VETTEDWowsie In Day-To-Day UseOppo Find X8 ProPrakhar KhannaOn the front, you get a bright and vibrant 6.8-inch AMOLED display. The super-thin and symmetrical 1.9mm bezels make it one of the most immersive displays on a smartphone. I love consuming content on it much more than the iPhone 16 Pro. Its feature-packed with support for a 120Hz refresh rate, 4,500 nits peak brightness, Dolby Vision, HDR10+, and Pro XDR for photography.The Find X8 Pro is powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 9400 chipset. Oppo says it was able to optimize the Trinity Engine better for both performance and efficiency on the MediaTek chipset. Its paired with 16GB of RAM and 512GB of storage. The phone runs ColorOS 15 based on Android 15, which offers smoother animations and an overall fluid experience. It is promised to get five years of Android OS updates and six years of security updates.Removing distractions with Oppo's builtin AI removal toolPrakhar KhannaI didnt experience any lag or stutter in the UI or while jumping between apps and neither did it heat up while extensive video recording. Its got several AI features that feel like party tricks because I always need to double-check summaries to ensure the AI didnt miss anything.However, Ive found the reflection removal AI feature particularly useful it removes reflections from glass when you click a subject through a window or gate. The AI object removal tool works pretty well, too. Apart from this, you also get Circle to Search, finally.Like previous Oppo flagships, the Find X8 Pro supports LDAC and LHDC codecs as well as Qualcomm's AptX and AptX HD for a better audio experience with supported headphones and earbuds. 5G connectivity remains solid in Delhi.Gemini on Oppo Find X8 ProPrakhar KhannaThe Oppo Find X8 Pro is a battery champion. It packs a 5910mAh silicon-carbon battery that supports 80W wired and 50W wireless charging.You just cant kill the battery life in one day unless, of course, thats what youre trying to do. Clicking photos, navigating, jumping between social media apps, messaging on WhatsApp, and using Slack and Teams throughout the day wasnt a problem. Im no longer battery-anxious when using the Find X8 Pro. If you are a light phone user, it can last up to two days on a single charge. Im confident that itll last an entire day for every type of user.Super Packed But Inconsistent OpticsOppo Find X8 Pro camerasPrakhar KhannaThe Oppo Find X8 Pro goes above and beyond conventional smartphone optics with a four 50MP camera system. It sports a main 50MP 1/1.4-inch Sony Lytia LYT-808 module with OIS (unlike the Find X7 Ultra, no 1-inch type sensor ), a 50MP 1/1.95-inch Sony LYT-600 with 3x optical zoom, another 50MP telephoto camera with 6x optical zoom, and a 50MP ultrawide-angle sensor. The primary and telephoto cameras also feature OIS.Oppo Find X8 Pro camera samplesPrakhar KhannaIve both enjoyed and been annoyed with the Find X8 Pros cameras. The 3x and 6x optical zoom are unlike any other smartphone. Both click sharper, detail-rich photos better than the Galaxy S24 Ultra and iPhone 16 Pro.2x, 3x and 14x shot on Oppo Find X8 ProPrakhar KhannaEven going up to 15x can give you social-media-share-worthy images.Ultrawide camera samplePrakhar KhannaThe ultrawide camera is similarly better than the competition. Ive used it more than other flagships. The Portrait mode captures a natural-looking blur, but the color temperature changes when you shift lenses. Ive gotten some amazing portrait shots from this phone, and I like it overall.Night time shots clicked on Oppo Find X8 ProPrakhar KhannaYou also get Live Photos and built-in scene modes like Stage and Fireworks. The former is useful if you want to extract short video clips from photos when making Reels or YouTube Shorts. The scene modes can and cannot work depending on the mood of the phones processing. That brings me to the annoying part the inconsistent Hasselblad color tuning.Inconsistent Hasselblad color tuning between modes and lensesPrakhar KhannaYou can click three identical images within two seconds, and the phone will process them differently. Sometimes the images are overexposed; other times, theyre oversaturated or the skin tone is weird. The one purpose of Hasselblads presence isnt being fulfilled, leaving a lot to be desired, especially when you see what it can do when the results are processed correctly.That being said, you can skip the Hasselblad color tuning and use Master Mode to make the most of the four 50MP cameras. The digital zoom will be limited, but I recommend this mode for professionals who want to edit their work in post. The photos feature a great amount of detail and more natural-looking skin tones.Oppo Find X8 Pro Review: VerdictOppo Find X8 ProPrakhar KhannaAt 1,200 Euros or 99,999 Indian Rupees, the Oppo Find X8 Pro is an expensive smartphone. But compared to flagships with a similar feature set (or even less), its more affordable than the Galaxy S24 Ultra and iPhone 16 Pro. Its got a powerful camera system, albeit inconsistent, but other elements like the display, performance, and battery life are better than more expensive flagships on the market right now.If you want a phone that lasts an entire day on heavy use without compromising on other aspects like performance and display, the Oppo Find X8 Pro is an easy recommendation.Pros:Excellent displayPowerful performanceBrilliant Battery lifeMaster Mode extracts the best of 50MP camerasSuper fast shutter speedCons:Inconsistent Hasselblad color tuning

LAS VEGAS, NEVADA - JANUARY 04: TCL Mobile Chief Marketing Officer Stefan Streit wears a pair of TCL ... [+] RayNeo X2 augmented reality (AR) glasses as he speaks at a TCL press event at CES 2023 at the Mandalay Bay Convention Center on January 04, 2023 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by David Becker/Getty Images)Getty ImagesFor many years now, augmented reality has been positioned as a transformative technology that could revolutionize the way humans interact with the world. While its consumer applications such as gaming, retail and entertainment have caught attention, AR is also quietly gaining traction in the workplace, from warehouses and manufacturing to hospitals and educational institutions.Recent reports of Amazon developing AR glasses for its delivery drivers are part of a rising trend of firms seeking AR solutions for increasing productivity, reducing errors and simplifying complicated tasks. But how much of this is hype? Can AR glasses truly change the workplace as we know it?AR in ActionIn logistics and warehouses, AR glasses have already begun making inroads. Companies like DHL have deployed AR systems and smart glasses to assist workers in locating and picking items as part of its Vision Picking program in 2015, DHL reported a 25% efficiency increase during its pilot programs.This is just the first step in our innovation journey we believe augmented reality will become relevant for even more supply chain areas, said Jan-Willem De Jong, Business Unit Director Technology, DHL Supply Chain, Benelux.Manufacturing is another sector making use of AR. Boeing, for instance, reportedly integrated Google Glass into its aircraft production for building complex wire harnesses, and, last year, partnered with Red 6 to incorporate AR into fighter pilot training. This year, Boeing advanced this collaboration by integrating Red 6s Augmented Reality Tactical Airborne System into its T-7A Red Hawk, intensifying the realism of training scenarios and simulating complex aerial dogfights.MORE FROMFORBES VETTEDIn retail, several brands have been creating interactive and immersive ways to engage customers, from IKEAs room-scanning app that visualizes furniture in a home to Toyotas AR car customization tool. And in healthcare, AR glasses are enabling surgeons to view imaging data during procedures without turning away from the patient.By integrating X-rays, CT scans, or other data directly into the surgical field, AR is said to help improve precision and saves time in operating rooms. Neurosurgeons at Johns Hopkins University performed the institutions first two AR surgeries on patients in 2020, one for a spinal fusion surgery and another to remove a cancerous tumor.When using augmented reality in the operating room, its like having a GPS navigator in front of your eyes in a natural way so you dont have to look at a separate screen to see your patients CT scan, said Tomothy Witham, who led the spinal fusion surgery, and is director of the Johns Hopkins Neurosurgery Spinal Fusion Laboratory.Meanwhile, Apple is reportedly moving forward with its own work on smart glasses, with an internal study, code-named Atlas, that aims to evaluate existing AR products and gather feedback from employees, according to a Bloomberg report. Meta and Snap have also previewed AR glasses that blend the real world with digital overlays, though the products wont be available to consumers for a few years.Amazons reported AR glasses for delivery drivers marks another step. The glasses, as envisioned, would provide turn-by-turn navigation and guidance inside buildings, helping drivers locate obscure entrances or apartments. While Amazon has yet to confirm details, according to a Reuters report or even if the project will move beyond development the concept aligns with the companys relentless pursuit of efficiency.Augmented ConcernsAs AR continues to expand in the workplace, ethical concerns also become more pronounced. A key issue is the potential for surveillance and privacy violations. With AR devices capable of recording and analyzing user data, the line between productivity enhancement and intrusive monitoring can easily blur. Workers might unknowingly become subjects of constant observation, raising questions about consent and transparency in how data is collected, stored and used.Because large amounts of personal data may be collected, so this data can be hacked and/or used for malicious reasons, write Mel Slater and colleagues in their 2020 study published in Frontiers in Virtual Reality. Of particular relevance are data collection, including for example face recognition, data sharing policies (should the government or other third parties have access to what you do virtually?), scams that use someones data or identity and fake commercial transactions.Ethical concerns also emerge around the potential for AR to manipulate user behavior, particularly in sectors like retail or healthcare, where AR technologies might be used to subtly influence purchasing decisions or patient outcomes.Cost is another obstacle. Early adopters, such as Google Glass and Microsoft HoloLens, struggled with issues like cost, limited battery life and user discomfort. While AR glasses can deliver long-term savings through improved efficiency, the upfront investment remains steep, particularly for smaller companies.Still, the broader AR and virtual reality market is poised for growth despite recent challenges. According to IDC, global shipments of AR/VR headsets are expected to rise by 41.4% in 2025 after a slight decline in 2024. This growth is attributed to advancements in mixed reality and extended reality devices, driven by the integration of artificial intelligence and consumer-friendly designs.However, IDC also highlights persistent barriers to AR adoption, including high costs and difficulties in scaling production. For workplace-focused AR glasses, overcoming these obstacles may be crucial.If companies like Amazon and Apple succeed, however, AR glasses could mark the beginning of a new era for workplace technology one where the already blurred boundaries between the physical and digital worlds may altogether disappear.Virtual and augmented realities have the potential to be profoundly transformative new tools with the capacity to shape how we see the world, ourselves, and our relationships, writes Erick Jose Ramirez, associate professor of philosophy at Santa Clara University, in The Ethics of Virtual and Augmented Reality: Building Worlds. If we want to build ethical virtual worlds, then well need to be much more mindful of the relationship between how we construct our simulations and the purposes to which we put them.

Cutting corners: Microsoft Edge is the post-Internet Explorer web browser included with every Windows installation since 2015 (IE since 1998). While the browser is now built on the Chromium open-source project, Microsoft is allegedly still using questionable tactics to try and force users to avoid installing third-party browsers. A number of browser makers formed the Browser Choice Alliance (BCA) to raise awareness of Microsoft's wicked behavior in the browser business. The group accuses Microsoft of actively restricting user choice and impeding consumers' ability to use alternative web browsers, steering users back to Edge despite the many other options available today.The Browser Choice Alliance currently includes Opera, Vivaldi, Google (who owns Chrome, the most popular Windows browser by far), Wavebox, and Waterfox.The group has formally petitioned the European Commission to designate Microsoft Edge as a "Gatekeeper" service under the Digital Markets Act, which would compel Microsoft to provide broader browser options for Windows users.According to the BCA, Microsoft employs dark patterns, technical restrictions, and deceptive practices to deter users from adopting alternative browsers. The company has even altered Windows settings to obstruct users' ability to set a new default browser. These actions not only disadvantage browser developers but also disrupt the broader web ecosystem, the BCA claims.The Alliance recently published an infographic to outline how Microsoft is undermining free browser choice. Tactics such as misleading pop-ups, warnings, and unnecessary, confusing steps are allegedly used to discourage users from downloading and installing alternative browsers. // Related StoriesThe user experience in Windows has also suffered, with default browser settings intentionally complicating the process of choosing a different browser. Microsoft further promotes Edge by recommending it to users searching for new browsers through the Bing search engine.Despite the rise of mobile apps (where Microsoft is not a major player) and shifting technology trends, web browsers remain a vital gateway to the internet. Services that significantly impact daily life, including AI tools, depend on a healthy web browser ecosystem. The BCA emphasizes that browsers will continue to play a key role in markets such as education and enterprise for years to come.The Alliance seeks to foster fair competition among browser makers within the desktop OS market, where Windows still holds over 70% of the global market share. However, notable independent browser developers like Mozilla's Firefox are absent from the BCA.Furthermore, Google was recently asked by the U.S. government to divest Chrome due to its search monopoly, yet the company is apparently trying to shift attention to someone else's monopoly by acting as a "proud" member of the new browser alliance.

Tesla boss Elon Musk has shared a new video showing the automakers Optimus robot catching a tennis ball.Optimus will be like having your own personal C-3PO & RD-D2 [sic], Musk commented in the post, suggesting, like many roboticists over the years, that we might one day be able to have a humanoid robot buddy.Recommended VideosOptimus will be like having your own personal C-3PO & RD-D2 https://t.co/0XgItDZE6S Elon Musk (@elonmusk) November 28, 2024 Its hard enough for some humans to catch a ball one-handed, so equipping a robot with the brain power to perform the feat is mightily impressive, with elements such as rapid ball detection, trajectory prediction, motion tracking, and grasp timing all part of the complex process assuming that what we see in the video is everything its cracked up to be.RelatedWhile the comments section for the original X post are mostly filled with gushing praise for Optimuss new skill, some question whether the act is truly autonomous or perhaps being performed remotely, with the robot mirroring a humans movements.One said that it looks like a human catching it, and while few people are really suggesting theres a person squeezed inside that robot garb, the comment will remind some of the moment when Optimus was introduced to the public in 2021 not as a functioning robot but instead as someone in a skintight bodysuit.Since then, Tesla has shared various videos showing increasingly advanced prototypes of the robot, which features AI smarts and computer vision based on technology deployed by the driver-assist features on its electric vehicles.Recently, the automaker was confident enough to let it serve drinks and mingle with guests at a recent event in LA where it unveiled its first robotaxi.Musk has said that he expects the humanoid robot to start working at Tesla factories next year, taking care of dangerous, repetitive, [and] boring tasks. It could then make it commercially available for other companies in 2026.In line with Thursdays C-3PO/R2-D2 comments on Thursday, Musk said recently that he also imagines Optimus one day serving as a household robot that can do everything you want: babysit your kid, walk your dog, mow your lawn, get the groceries, just be your friend, serve drinks.But getting your hands on one will cost you, as the Tesla chief has suggested that once produced at scale, an Optimus robot could cost around $25,000.Editors Recommendations

Its not just people who are sharing what theyre grateful for during Thanksgiving today Mars rovers are, too.In a post on X, NASAs Curiosity rover, which landed on Mars in 2012, shared a message saying: These stunning views of the Red Planet are a reminder of how vast and mysterious our universe is. What are you grateful for this Thanksgiving?Recommended VideosAccompanying the post is a remarkably detailed view of the rovers rocky surroundings on the distant planet.RelatedThese stunning views of the Red Planet are a reminder of how vast and mysterious our universe isWhat are you grateful for this #Thanksgiving? pic.twitter.com/sev9fq1Pzw Curiosity Rover (@MarsCuriosity) November 28, 2024One of Curiositys many mission goals is to assess Mars habitability by determining whether the planet could once have supported microbial life. Its also been working to characterize the martian climate and geology, and gather data that may be useful for future human exploration of Mars, which could begin in the coming decades.Some of its notable achievements to date include the discovery of key life-supporting elements such as sulfur, nitrogen, hydrogen, and oxygen, suggesting that the planet could indeed have had environments that were able to support microbial life. NASAs newer Mars rover, Perseverance, is following up by searching for signs of ancient microbial life itself, and has been makingsome interesting discoveries in that field.Curiositys high-resolution cameras have also provided visual evidence of an ancient streambed, indicating that liquid water once flowed on the Martian surface.But the ongoing work is taking its toll on the aging rover, with recent images showing very obvious damage to its middle-right wheel. Fortunately, the rovers wheels even in this sorry state are robust enough to handle Mars rocky terrain.Twelve years after its arrival, Curiosity is continuing to explore Mars Gale Crater and Mount Sharp, making discoveries and sending back breathtaking imagery. And for that, were all very grateful.Editors Recommendations

The decision ends three of the EU competition regulators attempts to crack down on international companies tax deals.