Bubble. All images courtesy of Hou de Sousa, shared with permissionParticipatory Pavilions by Hou de Sousa Emerge from Colorful Lights and FacetsNovember 29, 2024DesignKate MothesFor Nancy Hou and Josh de Sousa, founders of design studio Hou de Sousa, urban thoroughfares and public squares are a blank canvas. The award-winning, New York-based team focuses on architectural installations and large-scale sculptures that invite visitors to experience their surroundings in new ways.Often employing vibrant color and glowing lighting effects to be enjoyed day or night, pieces like Bubble and Star Light Star Bright invite passersby to wander through and around undulating surfaces. Many of the firms ideas revolve around the idea of the pavilionan inviting outdoor meeting place for the community.BubbleStar Light Star Bright, for example, was installed earlier this year on Broadway in New York City, inspired by the cross-cultural tradition of wish trees, (inviting) visitors to tie ribbons representing their hopes and desires, Hou and de Sousa say in a statement. As ribbon-like wristbands were added, the pavilion evolved as it donned a fluffy, fluorescent winter coat, highlighting interconnectedness and the universality of hope.In the Flatiron District in Manhattan, Hou de Sousa also recently installed a piece called Tulips, which reimagine lamp posts as giant flowers blossoming toward the sky.If youre in the Sarasota, Florida, area this winter, keep an eye out for the studios next installation, an 8,000-pound steel sculpture titled Poly. Dive into more projects on the studios website and Instagram.Star Light Star BrightStar Light Star BrightTulipsTulipsDetail of BubbleDetail of BubbleNext article

Published November 29, 2024 7:21pm EST close Government officials weigh the benefits and risks of artificial intelligence Fox News chief political anchor Bret Baier has the latest on regulatory uncertainty amid AI development on 'Special Report.' An increasing number of companies are using artificial intelligence (AI) for everyday tasks.Much of the technology is helping with productivity and keeping the public safer. However, some industries are pushing back against certain aspects of AI. And some industry leaders are working to balance the good and the bad."We are looking at critical infrastructure owners and operators, businesses from water and health care and transportation and communication, some of which are starting to integrate some of these AI capabilities," said U.S. Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency Director Jen Easterly. "We want to make sure that they're integrating them in a way where they are not introducing a lot of new risk."US AGRICULTURE INDUSTRY TESTS ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE: 'A LOT OF POTENTIAL'Consulting firm Deloitte recently surveyed leaders of business organizations from around the world. The findings showed uncertainty over government regulations was a bigger issue than actually implementing AI technology. When asked about the top barrier to deploying AI tools, 36% ranked regulatory compliance first, 30% said difficulty managing risks, and 29% said lack of a governance model.Easterly says despite some of the risks AI can pose, she said she is not surprised that the government has not taken more steps to regulate the technology."These are going to be the most powerful technologies of our century, probably more," Easterly said. "Most of these technologies are being built by private companies that are incentivized to provide returns for their shareholders. So we do need to ensure that government has a role in establishing safeguards to ensure that these technologies are being built in a way that prioritizes security. And that's where I think that Congress can have a role in ensuring that these technologies are as safe and secure to be used and implemented by the American people." An increasing number of companies are using AI for everyday tasks. (iStock)Congress has considered overarching protections for AI, but it has mostly been state governments enacting the rules."There are certainly many things that are positive about what AI does. It also, when fallen into the hands of bad actors, it can destroy [the music] industry," said Gov. Bill Lee, R-Tenn., while signing state legislation in March to protect musicians from AI.The Ensuring Likeness Voice and Image Security Act, or ELVIS Act, classifies vocal likeness as a property right. Lee signed the legislation this year, making Tennessee the first state to enact protections for singers. Illinois and California have since passed similar laws. Other states, including Tennessee, have laws that determine names, photographs and likenesses are also considered a property right."Our voices and likenesses are indelible parts of us that have enabled us to showcase our talents and grow our audiences, not mere digital kibble for a machine to duplicate without consent," country recording artist Lainey Wilson said during a congressional hearing on AI and intellectual property.AI HORROR FLICK STAR KATHERINE WATERSTON ADMITS NEW TECH IS TERRIFYINGWilson argued her image and likeness were used through AI to sell products that she had not previously endorsed."For decades, we have taken advantage of technology that, frankly, was not created to be secure. It was created for speed to market or cool features. And frankly, that's why we have cybersecurity," Easterly said.The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has cracked down on some deceptive AI marketing techniques. It launched "Operation AI Comply" in September, which tackles unfair and deceptive business practices using AI, such as fake reviews written by chatbots."I am a technologist at heart, and I am an optimist at heart. And so I am incredibly excited about some of these capabilities. And I am not concerned about some of the Skynet things. I do want to make sure that this technology is designed and developed and tested and delivered in a way to ensure that security is prioritized," Easterly said. A close-up of the icon of the ChatGPT artificial intelligence chatbot app logo on a cellphone screen. (iStock)Chatbots have had some good reviews. Hawaii approved a law this year to invest more in research utilizing AI tools in the health care field. It comes as one study finds, OpenAIs chatbot outperformed doctors in diagnosing medical conditions. The experiment compared doctors using ChatGPT with those using conventional resources. Both groups scored around 75% accuracy, while the chatbot alone scored above 90%.AI isnt just being used for disease detection, its also helping emergency crews detect catastrophic events. After deadly wildfires devastated Maui, Hawaii state lawmakers also allocated funds to the University of Hawaii to map statewide wildfire risks and improve forecasting technologies. It also includes $1 million for an AI-driven platform. Hawaiian Electric is also deploying high-resolution cameras across the state.AI DETECTS WOMANS BREAST CANCER AFTER ROUTINE SCREENING MISSED IT: 'DEEPLY GRATEFUL'"It will learn over months over years to be more sensitive to what is a fire and what is not," said Energy Department Under Secretary for AI and Technology Dimitri Kusnezov.California and Colorado have similar technology. Within minutes, the AI can detect when a fire begins and where it may spread.AI is also being used to keep students safe. Several school districts around the country now have firearm detection systems. One in Utah notifies officials within seconds of when a gun might be on campus."We want to create an inviting, educational environment that's secure. But we don't want the security to impact the education," said Park City, Utah, School District CEO Michael Tanner. Search and rescue personnel conduct operations in fire-damaged areas in Lahania, Hawaii, Aug. 18, 2023. (Matt McClain/The Washington Post via Getty Images)Maryland and Massachusetts are also considering state funds to implement similar technology. Both states voted to establish commissions to study emerging firearm technologies. Marylands commission will determine whether to use school construction funding to build the systems. Massachusetts members will look at risks associated with the new technology."We want to use these capabilities to ensure that we can better defend the critical infrastructure that Americans rely on every hour of every day," Easterly said.The European Union passed regulations for AI this year. It ranks risks from minimal, which have no regulations, to unacceptable, which are banned. Chatbots are classified as specific transparency and are required to inform users they are interacting with a machine. Software for critical infrastructure is considered high risk and must comply with strict requirements. Most technology that profiles individuals or uses public images to build-up databases is considered unacceptable.The U.S. has some guidelines for AI use and implementation, but experts say they believe it will not go as far as the EU classifying risks."We need to stay ahead in America to ensure that we win this race for artificial intelligence. And so it takes the investment, it takes the innovation," Easterly said. "We have to be an engine of innovation that makes America the greatest economy on the face of the earth." Bret Baier currently serves as FOX News Channel's (FNC) anchor and executive editor of Special Report with Bret Baier(weeknights at 6-7PM/ET), chief political anchor of the network and co-anchor of the networks election coverage. Baier is also host of FOX News Audio's "The Bret Baier Podcast" which includes Common Ground and The All-Star Panel. He joined FNC in 1998 as the first reporter in the Atlanta bureau and is now based in Washington, D.C.

Published November 29, 2024 6:00am EST close 'CyberGuy': Siberia's 'Gateway to Hell' crater fuels new fears Tech expert Kurt Knutsson says the Batagaika crater in Siberia expands 35 million cubic feet yearly due to thawing. In the remote reaches of Siberia, a colossal scar on the Earth's surface is expanding at a breathtaking pace, swallowing up the frozen landscape and potentially unleashing ancient threats. The Batagaika crater, aptly nicknamed the "Gateway to Hell," is not just a geological curiosity, it's a stark reminder of the rapid changes our planet is undergoing.4 DAYS LEFT! IM GIVING AWAY A $500 GIFT CARD FOR THE HOLIDAYS (Ends 12/3/24 3 pm ET)Enter bysigning up for my free newsletter. Batagaika crater (Murton et al./Permafrost Periglacial Processes) (Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson)A monstrous sinkhole in the permafrostImagine a gash in the Earth so large you could fit several football stadiums inside it. That's the Batagaika crater for you. This massive thermokarst depression a fancy term for a giant permafrost-thaw sinkhole is growing at an astonishing rate of 35 million cubic feet each year. To put that into perspective, it's like carving out a small town's worth of earth annually. Currently stretching about 0.6 miles long and 0.5 miles wide at its widest point, this behemoth shows no signs of slowing down. In fact, it's speeding up, driven by a vicious cycle of warming temperatures and melting ice. This study was published in thejournal Geomorphology. Batagaika crater (Earth Resources Observation and Science Center) (Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson)The permafrost paradoxDespite its name, permafrost isn't actually permanent. It's ground that's remained at or below freezing for at least two years. When this frozen soil thaws, it can't support the weight above it, leading to collapse and the formation of these massive "slumps." The Batagaika crater is a prime example of this process in overdrive. As the permafrost melts, it exposes more soil to sunlight, which then melts more permafrost. It's a feedback loop that's difficult to break, especially in our warming world. Batagaika crater (USGS) (Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson)Unlocking ancient secrets and dangersWhile the sheer size of the Batagaika crater is impressive, what's truly mind-boggling is its depth, both physical and temporal. The steep walls of this mega-slump reveal permafrost layers estimated to be 650,000 years old. That's older than our species. But with ancient ice comes ancient dangers. Scientists have already revived a 48,500-year-old "zombie virus" from Arctic permafrost, and there's concern about what other long-dormant pathogens might be awakening. It's not just a plot from some sci-fi movie anymore. It's a real consideration for modern science and medicine. Batagaika crater over time (Murton et al./Permafrost Periglacial Processes) (Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson)A carbon time bombThe Batagaika crater isn't just releasing potential pathogens. It's also unleashing a significant amount of carbon into the atmosphere. According to recent studies, this single mega-slump is responsible for releasing 4,000 to 5,000 tons of organic carbon every year. That's equivalent to the annual emissions of about 1,000 cars. This release of carbon, previously locked away in the frozen ground, further contributes to global warming, potentially accelerating the very process that created the crater in the first place. Batagaika crater (USGS) (Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson)Kurts key takeawaysThe Batagaika crater, while extreme, is not unique. It represents a process happening across the Arctic and sub-Arctic regions. As our planet continues to warm, more of these massive permafrost thaw features are likely to appear. While some might see the crater as a tourist attraction and indeed it has become one it's crucial to recognize it as a warning sign. The "Gateway to Hell" is more than just a catchy nickname; it's a portal into a possible future where rapid environmental changes reshape our world in ways we're only beginning to understand. The question remains: Will we heed the warning signs and take action, or will we continue to watch as more gateways open across our warming world?What are your thoughts on the potential impacts of ancient pathogens being released from melting permafrost, and how do you think we should address the challenges posed by climate change? 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.Ask Kurt a question or let us know what stories you'd like us to cover.Follow Kurt on his social channels:Answers to the most asked CyberGuy questions:New from Kurt:Try CyberGuy's new games (crosswords, word searches, trivia and more!)Enter CyberGuy's $500 Holiday Gift Card SweepstakesBest gifts for: MenWomen |Kids | Teens |Pet loversFor those who love: Cooking | Coffee | Tools | Travel | WineCant go wrong with these: Gift cards | Money-saving apps | Amazon Black Friday insider tipsCopyright 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.

Podcast: Areal density, AI design and the 50TB hard drive

Swedens algorithmically powered welfare system is disproportionately targeting marginalised groups in Swedish society for benefit fraud investigations, and must be immediately discontinued, Amnesty International has said.An investigation published by Lighthouse Reports and Svenska Dagbladet (SvB) on 27 November 2024 found that the machine learning (ML) system being used by Frskringskassan, Swedens Social Insurance Agency, is disproportionally flagging certain groups for further investigation over social benefits fraud, including women, individuals with foreign backgrounds, low-income earners and people without university degrees.Based on an analysis of aggregate data on the outcomes of fraud investigations where cases were flagged by the algorithms, the investigation also found the system was largely ineffective at identifying men and rich people that actually had committed some kind of social security fraud.To detect social benefits fraud, the ML-powered system introduced by Frskringskassan in 2013 assigns risk scores to social security applicants, which then automatically triggers an investigation if the risk score is high enough.Those with the highest risk scores are referred to the agencys control department, which takes on cases where there is suspicion of criminal intent, while those with lower scores are referred to case workers, where they are investigated without the presumption of criminal intent.Once cases are flagged to fraud investigators, they then have the power to trawl through a persons social media accounts, obtain data from institutions such as schools and banks, and even interview an individuals neighbours as part of their investigations. Those incorrectly flagged by the social security system have complained they then end up facing delays and legal hurdles in accessing their welfare entitlement.The entire system is akin to a witch hunt against anyone who is flagged for social benefits fraud investigations, said David Nolan, senior investigative researcher at Amnesty Tech. One of the main issues with AI [artificial intelligence] systems being deployed by social security agencies is that they can aggravate pre-existing inequalities and discrimination. Once an individual is flagged, theyre treated with suspicion from the start. This can be extremely dehumanising. This is a clear example of peoples right to social security, equality and non-discrimination, and privacy being violated by a system that is clearly biased.Using the aggregate data which was only possible as Swedens Inspectorate for Social Security (ISF) had previously requested the same data SvB and Lighthouse Reports were able to test the algorithmic system against six standard statistical fairness metrics, including demographic parity, predictive parity and false positive rates.They noted that while the findings confirmed the Swedish system is disproportionately targeting already marginalised groups in Swedish society, Frskringskassan has not been fully transparent about the inner workings of the system, having rejected a number of freedom of information (FOI) requests submitted by the investigators.They added that when they presented their analysis to Anders Viseth, head of analytics at Frskringskassan, he did not question it, and instead argued there was no problem identified.The selections we make, we do not consider them to be a disadvantage, he said. We look at individual cases and assess them based on the likelihood of error and those who are selected receive a fair trial. These models have proven to be among the most accurate we have. And we have to use our resources in a cost-effective way. At the same time, we do not discriminate against anyone, but we follow the discrimination law.Computer Weekly contacted Frskringskassan about the investigation and Amnestys subsequent call for the system to be discontinued.Frskringskassan bears a significant responsibility to prevent criminal activities targeting the Swedish social security system, said a spokesperson for the agency. This machine learning-based system is one of several tools used to safeguard Swedish taxpayers money.Importantly, the system operates in full compliance with Swedish law. It is worth noting that the system does not flag individuals but rather specific applications. Furthermore, being flagged does not automatically lead to an investigation. And if an applicant is entitled to benefits, they will receive them regardless of whether their application was flagged. We understand the interest in transparency; however, revealing the specifics of how the system operates could enable individuals to bypass detection. This position has been upheld by the Administrative Court of Appeal (Stockholms Kammarrtt, case no. 7804-23).Read more about public sector algorithmsLords to challenge controversial DWP benefits bank account surveillance powers: Members of the House of Lords are pressing for amendments to the Data Protection and Digital Information Bill following concerns over government powers to monitor the bank accounts of people receiving benefits.Accountability in algorithmic injustice: Computer Weekly looks at the growing number of injustices involving algorithms and automated decision-making, and what can be done to hold governments and companies accountable for the failures of computer systems they deploy.Ban predictive policing and facial recognition, says civil society: A coalition of civil society groups is calling for an outright ban on predictive policing and biometric surveillance.Nolan said if use of the system continues, then Sweden may be sleepwalking into a scandal similar to the one in the Netherlands, where tax authorities used algorithms to falsely accuse tens of thousands of parents and caregivers from mostly low-income families of fraud, which also disproportionately harmed people from ethnic minority backgrounds.Given the opaque response from the Swedish authorities, not allowing us to understand the inner workings of the system, and the vague framing of the social scoring ban under the AI Act, it is difficult to determine where this specific system would fall under the AI Acts risk-based classification of AI systems, he said. However, there is enough evidence to suggest that the system violates the right to equality and non-discrimination. Therefore, the system must be immediately discontinued.Under the AI Act which came into force on 1 August 2024 the use of AI systems by public authorities to determine access to essential public services and benefits must meet strict technical, transparency and governance rules, including an obligation by deployers to carry out an assessment of human rights risks and guarantee there are mitigation measures in place before using them. Specific systems that are considered as tools for social scoring are prohibited.Swedens ISF previously found in 2018 that the algorithm used by Frskringskassan in its current design [the algorithm] does not meet equal treatment, although the agency pushed back at the time by arguing the analysis was flawed and based on dubious grounds.A data protection officer who previously worked for the Frskringskassan also warned in 2020 that the systems operation violates the European General Data Protection Regulation, because the authority has no legal basis for profiling people.On 13 November, Amnesty International exposed how AI tools used by Denmarks welfare agency are creating pernicious mass surveillance, risking discrimination against people with disabilities, racialised groups, migrants and refugees.

Black Friday is now live, but it's winding down soon, 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 sibling) 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 Black Friday Kindle deals we've found so far here.Our 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 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: $9 (save $21): 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: $85Original price: $110I'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 $25 discount), I know it will be a great present for the bookworm in your life. 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 $10 (save $10): 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 $9 (save $21): 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 $9 (save $1): 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 today, Nov. 29, though some products were discounted a few days before and will likely continue to be after the deals event as we get 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:And more Black Friday deals:Top holiday deals

Adam Breeden/ZDNETI'm not usually a fan of LG TVs, but I've tested the LG G4 OLED TV this year, and I have to admit that it has the most impressive picture quality of any TV I've ever bought, used, or tested.And with Black Friday finally here, the 65-inch LG G4 is on sale for $1,100 off its retail price of $3,399 at both Amazon and Best Buy. At $2,297, it's still an expensive TV. For that price, you could get two 65-inch Sony X90L TVs -- my pick for the best TV for the money.But if picture quality is your No. 1 priority and you have the budget, there's no TV on the planet with a better picture than the LG G4. And the opportunity to get it for 32% off during Black Friday is super timely, since most people ramp up their content consumption over the winter months.Also:The best Black Friday deals: Live updatesWhat makes the LG G4 OLED picture so good? Several things.First of all, there are the things that make all OLED screens great -- and it's especially true for LG OLEDs because they are one of the leading innovators of the technology. We're talking about true blacks (as opposed to washed-out dark grays from LCD TVs), deep contrast, more vibrant colors, and amazing dynamic range in shots that have both dark and light elements. The LG G4 has all of those qualities -- and at the highest levels I've seen on any TV -- because it is LG's flagship OLED TV for 2024.So what's new in this year's LG G4? The biggest leap forward is in picture processing and that's made possible by the new 11 AI Processor 4K. I've always considered Sony the king of picture processing, and it was a long way back to LG and Samsung essentially tied for second place, with budget TV makers TCL and Hisense lagging the crowd. However, with the 2024 11 AI Processor, LG is now pushing Sony for the top spot in picture processing -- and that's saying a lot.Where this really matters is when it comes to out-of-the-box picture settings, upscaling older and lower-quality 720p and 1080p content, and the TV automatically adjusting the picture to make today's HDR content look amazing. In all of those areas, the LG G4 now rivals Sony.And because LG has always arguably made the highest-quality OLED TV panels, this upgrade in picture processing lifts the LG G4 to the top of the class in picture quality. For movies, shows, gaming, and virtually any other content, the LG G4 brings them to life in vibrant color, smooth motion, and incredible contrast -- more than any other TV you can buy right now.I tried it with some of my favorite content that has challenging visuals, including Dune, Avengers: End Game, and several other cutting-edge cinematic marvels. All of the content looked better than I've ever seen on any TVs I've used, bought, or tested -- and that includes some of the best TVs from Sony, Samsung, LG, TCL, and Hisense over the past few years.So what's the catch?There are a few drawbacks to note about the LG G4. First, of course, is the premium price. As I've already mentioned, you could buy two 65-inch Sony X90L TVs for the price of one 65-inch LG G4. And I think most people would be extremely happy with the mid-range Sony X90L. But you're not most people if you're considering the LG G4.The other drawbacks are the remote and LG's built-in webOS software. Both are mediocre at best. I consider LG's remote to be the worst of any of the big five TV makers. It's large, chonky, and has a confusing number of buttons. A TV this good and with such a premium design that is svelte and beautiful deserves a better-designed remote.LG's built-in webOS software is nearly as disappointing as the remote control. It works fine, but it's not very intuitive and it is nowhere close to being as well-thought-out as the TV hardware. The icons for content are small and sometimes hard to select, the menu system is a bit convoluted, and there are built-in ads running in the software -- which feels unconsciousonable for a TV this expensive. Adam Breeden/ZDNETThat said, in testing the 83-inch LG G4 in ZDNET's TV lab, I simply never used the remote or the built-in software. I attached an Apple TV 4K and used that remote and its interface to access all of the streaming services and content that I wanted. The combination of the LG G4 and Apple TV was glorious. So, if you buy an LG G4, I'd recommend adding a high-end streaming box like the Apple TV 4K, Google TV Streamer (4K), Amazon Fire TV Cube, or Nvidia Shield.The built-in sound in the LG G4 is fine but not great -- like virtually every other high-end or budget TV. So if you're buying a TV this expensive, I'm going to assume you're going to add a soundbar. At the very least, I'd recommend getting the Hisense AX5125H 5.1.2-channel soundbar -- my pick for best budget soundbar at $250 for Black Friday. And if you really want to kick into high gear, then I'd recommend the Sony Bravia Theater Quad, which automatically calibrates itself to your room. Or, even better, the Lovesac Sactional + Stealthech gives you surround sound built into your couch and makes you truly feel the cinematic experience much more like a real theater.Lastly, if you'd prefer a high-quality OLED TV with a great remote and great software built-in so that you don't have to run a separate streaming box, then I'd recommend the Sony A95L OLED TV, which runs Google TV and has a very premium remote. And if your TV is going to be in a very bright room with lots of windows or lights, then I'd recommend the Samsung S95D, which nearly matches the LG G4 in picture quality but comes with an incredible glare-free screen that looks amazing in any room. When will this deal expire? Deals are subject to sell out or expire at any time, though ZDNET remains committed to finding, sharing, and updating the best product deals for you to score the best savings. Our team of experts regularly checks in on the deals we share to ensure they are still live and obtainable. We're sorry if you've missed out on a deal, but don't fret -- we constant find new chances to save and share them with you onZDNET.com. Top holiday deals

How to solve today's Wordle.SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty ImagesLooking for Fridays Wordle hints, clues and answer? You can find them here:Im still overstuffed from all the Thanksgiving feasting and leftovers. Its Saturday, the very last day of November and Im ready for winter at last. Christmas is coming and were all getting fat. Lets solve this Wordle!How To Solve Todays WordleThe Hint: Belief, structured, as in religion.The Clue: This Wordle ends with a vowel.Okay, spoilers below!...The Answer:Today's WordleCredit: Erik Kain Wordle AnalysisEvery day I check Wordle Bot to help analyze my guessing game. You can check your Wordles with Wordle Bot right here. Can you solve todays phrase?Play NowA lucky game of Wordle today for your humble narrator. Things started off rough with SPATE, but I slashed my choices down to 5 with AVOID. My next guess was lucky: DOGMA for the win!Competitive Wordle ScoreI get 1 point for guessing in three and another for beating the Bot who took four tries today. 2 points for me! Huzzah!How To Play Competitive WordleGuessing in 1 is worth 3 points; guessing in 2 is worth 2 points; guessing in 3 is worth 1 point; guessing in 4 is worth 0 points; guessing in 5 is -1 points; guessing in 6 is -2 points and missing the Wordle is -3 points.If you beat your opponent you get 1 point. If you tie, you get 0 points. And if you lose to your opponent, you get -1 point. Add it up to get your score. Keep a daily running score or just play for a new score each day.Fridays are 2XP, meaning you double your pointspositive or negative.You can keep a running tally or just play day-by-day. Enjoy!Todays Wordle EtymologyThe term dogma originates from the Greek word dogma (), which means "that which seems to one, an opinion, belief." It is derived from the verb dokein (), meaning "to seem, think, or suppose." In classical Greek, dogma referred to a philosophical tenet or decree.The term was later adopted into Latin as dogma, maintaining its sense of a fixed belief or authoritative decree, particularly in religious or philosophical contexts. Over time, it entered English in the 16th century, where it has come to signify a principle or set of principles laid down by an authority as incontrovertibly true.Let me know how you fared with your Wordle today on Twitter, Instagram or Facebook. Also be sure to subscribe to my YouTube channel and follow me here on this blog where I write about games, TV shows and movies when Im not writing puzzle guides. Sign up for my newsletter for more reviews and commentary on entertainment and culture.

Taking a look back at this weeks news and headlines from Apple, including new iPhone 17 features, iPhone 16 camera disappointment, Apples Black Friday iPhone offers, Amazons MacBook Pro win, critical macOS security update, iOS 18.2 release date, Apples 5G modem, and the status of Product(Red).,Apple Loop is here to remind you of a few of the many discussions around Apple in the last seven days. You can also read my weekly digest of Android news here on Forbes.Customers shop at the largest Apple flagship store in Asia in Shanghai, China, on September 22, ... [+] 2024. (Photo by Costfoto/NurPhoto via Getty Images)NurPhoto via Getty ImagesiPhone 17s New Global FeatureFollowing on from the dedicated use of eSIM in the US, Apple looks ready to introduce the digital version of the venerable SIM card to a global audience, albeit not in every single handset. After all, removing physical hardware from inside an iPhone is going to help a certain slimline project in 2025:"Apple has yet to release any iPhones without a SIM card tray outside of the U.S., but it sounds like the change will finally expand internationally starting with the iPhone 17 lineup next September. Indeed, the report said that all current "iPhone 17 Air" prototypes lack a SIM card tray. The report said it is unclear if the device will be sold in China as a result, since the country has not approved the use of eSIMs in smartphones. Of course, that could change."(The Information via MacRumors).MORE FROMFORBES VETTEDiPhone 16 Camera Falls ShortDXOMark famously puts smartphone cameras through extensive tests and measurements to determine which is best according to their criteria. Its become one of the standards to aim for. Apple will have been at least satisfied with the iPhone 16 Pro reaching #4 in the chart, but the recent testing of the iPhone 16 will have been less well received, as Apples vanilla iPhone 16 fell to #20."In our evaluations, the camera captured nice still images and videos with excellent exposure, good contrast, and pleasant skin tones. The video stabilization system kept things smooth and stable when recording moving images. On the downside, the absence of a dedicated tele lens meant that images captured at medium and long-range tele settings lacked detail and texture."(DXOMark).Apple Black Friday iPhone and iPadThe Thanksgiving holiday is here, and the wave of Black Friday and Cyber Monday offers is reaching a crescendo. Apple has typically avoided any extended deals, instead offering store vouchers in a tightly defined window of Friday to Monday, honoring the nature of the days the sale applies to. The offers are available across multiple territories, and Forbes contributor David Phelan is keeping an eye on what to expect:"The event runs from the moment midnight strikes on Friday, Nov. 29 through to the following Monday, Dec. 2 inclusive in your time zone. Instead of knocking money off its products, Apples technique is to provide a gift card that can be spent anywhere instore or online with Apple. So, if youre planning to buy other stuff from Apple, it works out as good as a discount."(Forbes).Amazon Delivers Apple A MacBook Pro WinApple may not offer any monetary discounts for the holidays (and those vouchers are rarely available on the current hardware generation) but thats not to say that Apple does not benefit from the sales. To show one example, Amazon sells the new M4 MacBook Pro laptops for up to $300 off, but Apple gets the customers into its ecosystem without disrupting its image of high price buys quality:"Given the interest in the new MacBook Pro models, coupled with the company's reluctance to offer price cuts during Black Friday, many consumers bought their new laptops confident that the price they paid would not be gazumped in the Black Friday week. And it hasn't been gazumped, at least by Apple. After all, Apple has a reputation to keep up regarding the perceived status of the Mac platform tied to the higher price points it uses."(Forbes).MacOS Security UpdateApples confirmation of a serious security exploit in its various operating systems arrived last week. The issues are part of WebKit and Java. The need to update your hardware was reinforced by a call from a US government agency to do so immediately:"Apple is warning billions of Mac and MacBook users worldwide to update macOS as a matter of priority. The importance of applying this update has been reinforced thanks to an intervention by the U.S. Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Agency"(Forbes).iOS 18.2 Details RevealedThe next major update to iOS 18.2 will offer many new features and software tweaks, but the one that will gather the most attention is the next step in bringing generative AI to the iPhone with ChatGPT integration through Siri. While some are looking at this Monday as the release date, its more likely to be a week or two into December:"After all, this week includes Thanksgiving with its holidays and travellosing key days just before a release would always have been unlikely to work. Those last-minute touches need a full team working hard, not drifting back in after days away. And the current developer and public beta versions dont quite seem close enough to final release....Id say we should work on the principle that it will be one of the two following weeks, that is, the weeks commencing Monday, Dec.9 or Monday, Dec. 16."(Forbes).Apples 5G ModemIts been a long time coming, but Apple may finally have something to show from its purchase of Intels modem division. Qualcomm is currently the exclusive supplier of 5G modems, but Apple looks set to start a phased roll out on its own hardware next year:"The first device expected to feature Apples 5G modem is the iPhone SE 4, which is rumored to be announced in the first half of 2025. By the end of next year, at least one of the iPhone 17 models will also have the new modem most likely the iPhone 17 Air. Despite the benefits in terms of battery consumption, Apple still doesnt feel totally confident enough about its modem to put it in flagship products such as the Pro iPhones."(9to5Mac).And Finally...Apple is indelibly linked to the Product(red) initiative that raises awareness and funding to help eliminate HIV/AIDS in Africa. Its a long partnership but Joe Rossignol has documented the slow reduction in Apples Product (Red) hardware:"Apple did not offer any iPhone 15 models in (Product)Red, and that trend has continued with iPhone 16 models so far. It did offer the aluminum Apple Watch Series 9 in (Product)Red last year, but that device has since been discontinued, and the color option is not available for the Apple Watch Series 10. Apple also discontinued the (PRODUCT)RED version of the Sport Band that was available alongside the Series 9."Apple continues to support The Global Fund through its annual Apple Pay donation program, which returns from November 29 through December 8."(MacRumors).Apple Loop brings you seven days worth of highlights every weekend here on Forbes. Dont forget to follow me so you dont miss any coverage in the future. Last weeks Apple Loop can be read here, or this weeks edition of Loops sister column, Android Circuit, is also available on Forbes.

Key TakeawaysIntel has received $7.86 billion through the CHIPS and Science Act as confirmed by the US Department of Commerce.This funding will directly fuel the semiconductor manufacturing projects that Intel has planned to launch in Arizona, New Mexico, Ohio, and Oregon.In addition to this funding, it also managed to secure a $3 billion award from the Department of Defense and a 25% investment tax credit from the U.S. Treasury Department.This will also add more than 20,000 construction jobs, 10,000 company jobs, and 50,000 indirect jobs.Intel has finally managed to secure direct funding of up to $7.86 billion through the CHIPS and Science Act from the US Department of Commerce. This money will directly go to the companys upcoming commercial semiconductor manufacturing projects in New Mexico, Ohio, Oregon, and Arizona.Out of this, $65 million will be invested in workforce development. This will include a $56 million investment for education and training programs and a separate $5 million investment to increase the availability of childcare near Intel facilities.In addition to this investment, the company has also managed to secure a 25% investment tax credit from the U.S. Treasury Department and a $3 billion deal from the Department of Defense.All these investments will have significance for both the company and the country.Whats In It For The Company?Its no secret that Intel has been struggling for a while. Increasing competition from AMD and Nvidia has been slowly eating away at its market value. In 2021, its market value was approximately $209.45 billion but in 2024 (as of November), its market value is only $102 billion.In addition to that, the company recently revealed its third-quarter earnings where it faced a massive $16.6 billion loss. As a result, more than 2,000 jobs were cut which in turn affected share prices and made investors lose their faith in the company. It was a vicious cycle.However, this new investment can completely change the picture for the company. In 2024, Intel promised to invest more than $100 billion in semiconductor manufacturing but it couldnt have kept its promise without getting this funding.Sure, Intel had already been making some significant progress in the semiconductor industry. But all of these achievements together wouldnt have been able to help Intel reach the position in the semiconductor industry that this massive funding can.Thankfully, with this investment more than 10,000 company jobs, 20,000 construction jobs, and 50,000 indirect jobs.Read More: Everything Intel Announced at Computex 2024: Xeon 6 Processors and Lunar Lake AI ChipsWhats In It For The US?The US was gradually losing its hold over the global chipmaking market. Although Nvidia is one of its biggest players, in 2022, its contribution to the global chip manufacturing industry was only 10% and that too was expected to decrease.On the other hand, China, one of the biggest rivals of the US, was making significant improvements in the industry.Naturally, the US had to do something. So it introduced the CHIPS Act in 2024 as its first step to remedy the situation. It also helped by adding more jobs and opportunities. Also, the USs global contribution to the chip market is now expected to grow (instead of decreasing) to 14% by 2032.The CHIPS for America program will supercharge American technology and innovation and make our country more secure and Intel is expected to play an important role in the revitalization of the U.S. semiconductor industry Gina Raimondo, U.S. Secretary of CommerceRight now, what the US needs more than anything is a face to drive its ambition. And its putting its bet on Intel to be that face.The US firmly believes that Intel can help build a strong domestic manufacturing space for chips and position the country at the top of the global supply chain.Add Techreport to Your Google News Feed Get the latest updates, trends, and insights delivered straight to your fingertips. Subscribe now! Subscribe now Krishi is an eager Tech Journalist and content writer for both B2B and B2C, with a focus on making the process of purchasing software easier for businesses and enhancing their online presence and SEO.Krishi has a special skill set in writing about technology news, creating educational content on customer relationship management (CRM) software, and recommending project management tools that can help small businesses increase their revenue.Alongside his writing and blogging work, Krishi's other hobbies include studying the financial markets and cricket. View all articles by Krishi Chowdhary Our editorial processThe Tech Reporteditorial policyis centered on providing helpful, accurate content that offers real value to our readers. We only work with experienced writers who have specific knowledge in the topics they cover, including latest developments in technology, online privacy, cryptocurrencies, software, and more. Our editorial policy ensures that each topic is researched and curated by our in-house editors. We maintain rigorous journalistic standards, and every article is 100% written byreal authors.