NotebookLM teams up with Spotify to bring you more fun insights into your music tastes. Here's how to hear it.

If you're a fan of Apple products, there's no doubt you've seen colleagues, strangers, and friends sporting AirPods over the years -- even if you don't own a pair yourself. Maybe you're a fan of over-ear headphones, or have been enjoying the resurgence of wired earbuds. But if you haven't yet taken the AirPod plunge and are curious, we've compiled a list of our top-tested AirPods that pair seamlessly withiPhones,iPads, andMacBooks.AirPods offer iOS-specific software features and capabilities, like Spatial Audio with Dynamic Head Tracking, Adaptive Audio, and Conversation Awareness. Additionally, the AirPods Pro 2's breakout feature, Hearing Aid Mode, is only available when the earbuds are paired with a compatible Apple device.Also: The best earbuds: Expert testedWhy should you trust me? I have tested every AirPods modeland have strong opinions on which pairs are the best for specific use cases. I've also used the AirPods Pro every day since they launched in October 2019, and upgraded to the AirPods Pro (2nd Generation) at launch in 2022.What are the best AirPods right now?My pick for the best AirPods -- the recently-revised AirPods Pro 2 with USB-C-- is based on my extensive experience using and testing the different versions of AirPods andcompetingearbuds from Beats, Soundcore, Samsung, Sony, and many others. But if you aren't sold on the AirPods Pro 2, there are a few more options to choose from.The best AirPods of 2024 Show less Pros Very comfortable to wear Impressive sound quality Excellent noise cancellation Case offers wireless charging Cons The best features are reserved for Apple users Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation) with USB-C Best AirPods overall Out of the current AirPods models, I highly recommend the AirPods Pro 2 because they fit almost every type of ear comfortably and include all of Apple's best and latest headphone features.These are ideal for those long-haul work sessions when all you want is silence and time to focus, or as you're exercising and want to lock in on your favorite music. They're the best earbuds in the lineup and an excellent choice for portable headphones with competitive noise-canceling.Most Redditors agree that the AirPods Pro 2 take the cake. One user on the r/AirPods thread said the AirPods Pro 2 are worth the money, while another called the earbuds "transcendent."Also: I've used my AirPods Pro 2 since their 2022 release. Are they still worth it in 2024?The AirPods Pro 2 uses silicon tips to fit into your ears (with four sizes to choose from), similar to the ones you're probably familiar with in most earbuds you've used. Comparatively, the standard AirPods have hard plastic tips like the traditional Apple EarPods that used to come in the box with most iPhones -- which many people found fell out of their ears easily or weren't very comfortable to wear.The AirPods Pro 2 sport Apple's latest H2 chip for improved sound, more stable Bluetooth connections, and more efficient power consumption. The Pro 2 offer the most effective noise cancellation of Apple's earbuds, working impressively in loud environments like airplanes and city streets. These earbuds also include Adaptive Audio, which automatically adjusts the noise-canceling levels based on your environment's noise levels.Software-wise, the Pro 2 are Apple's most advanced earbuds. These earbuds offer Lossless Audio with ultra-low latency when paired with the Apple Vision Pro headset, and can be used as an over-the-counter hearing aid for those with mild to moderate hearing loss.If you use headphones for more than a couple hours every day, wireless headphones might be your most important device next to your smartphone and your laptop -- and they can enhance the experience of using both. If you use headphones that much, spending $250 (or as low as $170 during seasonal sales) on the best and most versatile wireless earbuds Apple offers will likely be a worthy investment to raise the quality of your daily life.AirPods Pro (2nd Generation) with USB-C features: Type:In-ear |Chip:H2 |Battery life:6 hours |Water-resistant:IP54 (dust, sweat, and water resistant) Show Expert Take Show less Show less Pros Noise cancellation is outstanding Transparency mode is natural-sounding More comfortable than most over-ear headphones Cons Eye-watering price tag Sound quality is about the same as less expensive headphones You'll need to buy a real case Apple AirPods Max Best AirPods for travelers and audiophiles The AirPods Max are Apple's most premium headphones, and they even do a few specific things better than the AirPods Pro 2 (which due to Apple's H2 chip have more advanced technology). Regarding immersive sound and blocking out the world, the AirPods Max offers a glorious experience at a premium price of $550 -- although you can regularly find sales and discounts to knock off a chunk of that price.Review:AirPods MaxThe noise cancellation for the AirPods Max is the best I've experienced. I used it on a very loud and long flight, where I was seated just over one of the engines with a constant roar. Putting on the AirPods Max brought almost complete silence and a welcome bit of peace. Equally vital is the transparency mode, where the eight microphones in the AirPods Max make it sound like you're not wearing a pair of over-the-ear headphones. The quality of these two modes is better than any other traditional headphones I've used. It is the main reason to buy the AirPods Max -- along with the fact that they can pair with all your Apple devices and automatically switch between any of them.Here's another reason to buy the AirPods Max: comfort. I've never been able to wear most over-the-ear headphones for more than 30 minutes because they are uncomfortable on my ears and make the sides of my head sweaty. I've been able to wear the AirPods Max for several hours on long flights because the ear cushions are comfortable and ventilate well.Apple released USB-C compatible AirPods Max during the iPhone 16 launch event, making Apple's only over-ear headphones compatible with lossless wired listening.Also: How to figure out if you should (or shouldn't) buy the new USB-C AirPods MaxThe audio quality of the AirPods Max is excellent, but it's generally about the same as that of other wireless over-the-ear headphones that cost $250-$350. If you have multiple Apple devices, truly love audio or immersing yourself in your favorite music or movie, and are a frequent traveler, then you're likely to love the experience of the AirPods Max. Just keep in mind that you'll probably also need a separate pair of earbuds for walking outside, working out, and wearing under a warm cap in cold weather.Owners on Reddit say the AirPods Max is worth it if you have nearly $600 to spare. Some users recommend waiting for the next generation of these headphones, though it's TBD when that next generation arrives.AirPods Max features: Type:Over-ear |Chip:H1 |Battery life:20 hours |Water-resistant:N/A Show Expert Take Show less Show less Pros Can work across all your Apple devices Comfortable Easy to use Cons They don't fit in all ears Missing latest AirPods innovations Apple AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation Best midrange AirPods The original AirPods remain as iconic as ever. Apple's latest release is the upgraded fourth-generation version and they're still a great buy, even if Redditors claim the Pro 2s have made them less popular.Apple released two pairs of AirPods in the fourth-gen lineup, but the addition of noise cancellation gives these AirPods more utility and value.A fully charged case can charge the fourth-generation AirPods up to six times. With up to five hours of battery life on each charge, the case and the AirPods can last over 30 hours before needing a full recharge. These AirPods debuted with Apple's latest H2 audio chip, which enhances connection stability, sound quality, and power consumption when paired with your Apple devices.Review:AirPods 4 and AirPods 4 with ANCThe fourth-gen AirPods are more comfortable, portable, and intuitive than the second and third-generation predecessors. The noise cancellation is impressive, but the earbud's design naturally allows some ambient noise to enter your ears. If you want noise cancellation that blocks out the world to the highest degree, consider the Pro 2 earbuds.Aside from not having the latest tech available in the AirPods Pro 2, the biggest drawback to these earbuds is that their hard plastic tips don't fit into everyone's ears and sometimes fall out. So, I'd recommend getting silicone ear tips (such as ) to keep them more securely in your ears -- even though it can be a bit of pain to have to carry the extra ear tips and to take them off and on between uses.If you can live with their drawbacks, the AirPods 4 with ANC are a great middle-ground option for iOS fans. They're an excellent option for students who want earbuds in the Apple ecosystem but aren't picky about special features.AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation features: Type:In-ear |Chip:H2 |Battery life:5 hours |Water-resistant:IP54 (dust, sweat, and water resistant) Show Expert Take Show less Show less Pros Refined version of original design Spatial audio Adaptive EQ Water and sweat resistance Cons Don't fit in all ears Don't have latest H2 chip No noise cancellation or transparency mode Apple AirPods (3rd Generation) Best traditional AirPods The AirPods (3rd Generation) offer nearly all of the same features as the AirPods 4minus the ANC, an upgraded audio chip, USB-C charging, and dust resistance. However, since the release of the fourth-generation AirPods, Apple has discontinued sales of the third-generation AirPods, so you'll have to buy them from retailers like Best Buy or Amazon while supplies last.Review:Apple AirPods (3rd Generation)These AirPods integrate more controls directly into the stems than their second-generation predecessors. With the third-gen AirPods, you can press once to play/pause or answer a call, twice to skip forward, three times to skip back, and press and hold to activate Siri, which are intuitive features found in Apple's more advanced earbuds.The third-generation AirPods also suffer from fit issues and will likely fall out of your ears if you try to work out in them, soI'd recommend getting some silicone ear hooks, as mentioned above. However, the silicone tips for the second generation won't fit the third generation because of a new bud design. So I'd suggest getting for the AirPods 3 if these fit loosely in your ears.The AirPods 3rd gen are generally the Apple headphones that are the hardest to recommend. These aren't the cheapest AirPods -- you can get more upgrades for a little less money with the AirPods 4. However, the third-gen AirPods are more heavily discounted during seasonal sales than the brand-new AirPods 4.AirPods (3rd Generation) features: Type:In-ear |Chip:H1 |Battery life:6 hours |Water-resistant:IPX4 (sweat and water-resistant, but no dust resistance.) Show Expert Take Show less What are the best Apple AirPods? If you're not familiar with the four models of AirPods that are currently sold by Apple, here's a quick look at their primary features.Best Apple AirPodsRetail PriceBatteryAudio ChipAirPods Pro (2nd Generation) with USB-C$2496 hoursH2AirPods Max$54920 hoursH1AirPods 4 with ANC$1795 hoursH2AirPods (3rd Generation)$1696 hoursH1 Which Apple AirPods are right for you? If you're still trying to decide which set of AirPods are the best for you to buy, here's the main reason to buy each of the products in the lineup. Choose this pair of Apple AirPods...If you want...AirPods Pro (2nd Generation) with USB-CApple's most upgraded and capable headphones. These earbuds offer impressive noise cancellation, are compatible with the Vision Pro headset, and an in-canal fit for enhanced immersion.AirPods MaxOver-ear headphones with Apple-specific features. Although you can find equally yoked headphones for cheaper, these headphones shine with their integration with Apple devices.AirPods 4 with ANCImpressive AirPods without the advanced features found in the Pro 2. If you want noise cancellation and spatial audio without the cutting-edge tech, these are perfect for you.AirPods (3rd Generation)An even more watered-down pair of Apple earbuds. These earbuds lack noise cancellation, but offer spatial audio and wireless charging. Factors to consider when choosing the best AirPods In evaluating the four models of AirPods, I've especially focused on these four factors:Cost: Budget is where most people start, so we always have to keep that at the forefront of the conversation about AirPods. The AirPods on this list cost anywhere from $99 to $550, depending on the model you choose, the AirPods generation, the features included in the pair like noise cancellation and spatial audio, and whether you're opting for earbuds or the AirPods Max. All of these factors will raise the price of a pair significantly, but also the quality level.Features: The things that determine how AirPods work and what you can do with them are always going to be at the center of consideration, so we have to look at noise cancellation, transparency mode, spatial audio, water resistance, charging case, interface controls, comfort, and other key features.Battery life: Few things affect daily use more than battery life, so we have to take that into account when considering the usefulness of each product. The AirPods on this list have battery life that ranges from six to 20 hours.Chip: To power the AirPods, Apple has both the H1 and H2 chips. These are the key to a number of features as well as the software upgradeability of the AirPods, as we've seen with the nice feature bump that the AirPods Pro 2 got in iOS 17 because they have the H2. How we test AirPods I have been using AirPods every day for over five years, and have tried all of the various models. I've also used many other wireless earbuds, wireless over-the-ear headphones, and wired earbuds and headphones. I've used inexpensive $20 models and I've used ones that cost over $500. I've taken all of that experience and used it to make recommendations on the best AirPods to buy, based on the AirPods' performance, battery life, customer reviews, your needs, your use cases, and your budget.ZDNET only spotlights products we actually recommend to people, and when we like a product, we will spotlight it or write an official review, and then put the product on one of these best lists.To learn more about our approach to headphone and earbud testing, read our comprehensive headphone testing methodology. Is Apple coming out with new AirPods anytime soon? During the iPhone 16 launch event, Apple announced two brand-new pairs of AirPods, an updated AirPods Max model, and new software features for the AirPods Pro 2. Here's a short breakdown of the new AirPods and the latest software features.AirPods 4: Apple released two AirPods in the fourth-generation lineup. One pair has active noise cancellation and one pair does not. Noise cancellation is the major distinction between the two. Both AirPods have Apple's advanced H2 audio chip for improved sound quality, Spatial Audio, and an improved fit for enhanced comfort.AirPods Max with USB-C: Apple released USB-C compatible AirPods Max in new colors. USB-C compatibility brings wired lossless listening to the updated AirPods Max.Hearing Aid Mode: The advanced Pro 2 earbuds will receive hearing health features, including acting as an over-the-counter hearing aid for those with mild to moderate hearing loss. Users concerned with their hearing health can conduct a hearing test on their iPhone and access insights and metrics in the Health app when wearing the Pro 2 earbuds.We'll likely have to wait until next year for the next generation of AirPods Max and AirPods Pro. Industry insiders and analysts assert that Apple is working on the AirPods Pro 3, which will feature a new design, enhanced audio quality, a new chip, and biometric sensors to monitor heart rate, temperature, and perspiration levels. What are the best cheap Apple AirPods? The Apple AirPods 4 retail for $179 but won't see steep discounts since they were released so recently. The second-generation AirPods also retail for $179 but you can find them for as low as $89 during seasonal sales. Which AirPods are better: the AirPods Pro 2 or the AirPods 4? We think the AirPods Pro 2 runs circles around the AirPods 4 due to their comfort, in-ear security, advanced features, and impressive noise cancellation. If you want AirPods that will receive the latest and greatest software features, the Pro 2 are a no-brainer. However, the fourth-gen AirPods with ANC offer all the vital features, like noise cancellation, spatial audio, Find My compatibility, and wireless charging. What's the lowest price AirPods go for? Apple always sells its products for their MSRP. If you buy from Apple's website, expect to pay full price. However, you can find Apple products like AirPods regularly discounted on sites like Amazon, Best Buy, and Walmart. During seasonal sales, you can find the AirPods Pro 2 for as low as $189 and the AirPods Max for as low as $395. What are good alternatives to AirPods? If you're not sold on AirPods for their iOS-specific features, ZDNET has tested plenty of earbuds and headphones from competing brands. Many of these earbuds and headphones offer similar software features like spatial audio, noise cancellation, and voice assistant integration, without discriminating against your device's operating system. ZDNET Recommends

Banks and utilities share a lot of DNA: Both industries tend to be conservative and face heavy regulation due to the essential nature of the services they provide.

Law enforcement breaks the MatrixgettyAn international criminal communications network, known as the Matrix, containing more than 2 million encrypted messages in 33 languages and spanning 40 servers, has been broken apart by a co-ordination law enforcement operation that started in 2021. Led by Europol and Eurojust, the Matrix network, not to be confused with the perfectly legitimate and unconnected Matrix.org Foundation which Dutch police confirmed has nothing to do with the crypto communications service Matrix, first came to the attention of law enforcement after messages were found on the smartphone of a man convicted of a Dutch journalist.Exiting The MatrixAccording to a Dec. 03 statement published by Europol, the Matrix operation connected at least 8,000 criminal users who paid between $1,360 (1,300) and $1,680 (1,600) for six months access to the encrypted messaging service. With server hardware physically based largely in France and Germany, a joint investigation involving both French and Dutch law enforcement monitored all messages sent using the Matrix for a three month period. These messages, which Europol said amounted to 2.3 million that were intercepted and deciphered during the investigation, will now be used as evidence and to support further investigations.Although this is far from the first encrypted messaging platform that has been dismantled by international law enforcement operations, and Europol said it will not be the last, it was technically more complex than previous networks such as Sky ECC and EncroChat, Europol said.MORE FOR YOUAccording to Europol, the Matrix operators were convinced that the service was superior and more secure than previous applications used by criminals, but this conviction proved to be misplaced and will likely be replaced with another type of conviction in due course. Despite being an invite-only network, law enforcement investigators were able to intercept the messaging service and monitor the activity on the service. It is not clear at this point what the innovative technology used by those investigators to crack the encrypted network was.Matrix Messages Linked To Drug Trafficking, Arms Trafficking, Money LaunderingEuropol said that among the 2.3 million encrypted messages intercepted from the Matrix network during the operation, links to serious crimes such as international drug trafficking, arms trafficking and money laundering were plentiful. Three suspects have been arrested so far as a result, one in France and two in Spain. Europol said that the main Matrix servers have now been taken down.

In context: Traditional brain monitoring setups, known as electroencephalograms, are a bit of a hassle. They involve technicians using rulers and pencils to map out spots on your head, then gluing a bunch of electrodes across your scalp hooked up to a rat's nest of wires. It can take a couple of hours just to get you ready to start monitoring brain waves. Now, as reported by Live Science, researchers from the University of Texas at Austin have developed a way to use temporary tattoos for recording brain activity to address all of these problems and it could shake up how we diagnose conditions like epilepsy and brain tumors. Instead of all that head mapping and electrode gluing, a robot printer simply jets out a conductive ink "tattoo" pattern onto your scalp.The process still takes an hour because the researchers have to make corrections for the person's head movements. However, they say that if it can be fully automated, it can be done in just 20 minutes.The ink dries into an ultra-thin film just 30 micrometers thick half the width of a hair. Tests run on five people with short hair revealed that even with that thinness, the e-tattoos can pick up brain signals just as well as standard bulky electrodes. Plus, while the old-school electrodes started losing adhesion after six hours, the e-tattoos stuck for over 24 hours.The advantages don't stop at easier setups, either. Since the conductive ink can be printed in thin hairline patterns, the team could use much shorter wiring to connect the e-tattoos to monitoring equipment.If you're wondering why anyone would want to get tattoos for just a few tests, well, they are temporary. They come off quite easily too all you have to use is an alcohol wipe or some shampoo. The researchers are also looking into formulas that won't rub off on pillows, which could allow overnight sleep monitoring. // Related StoriesWhile this first study just tested the concept on a handful of people, the researchers are eager to develop the tech further. Next up is checking how well it works for different hair types and lengths, as well as skin conditions. They'll also look at using it to monitor specific neurological disorders. Another idea under consideration is embedding tiny transmitters into the ink to make the tattoos fully wireless.The complete findings can be found in a new study published Monday in the journal Cell Biomaterials.Image credit: witchkingblogs

A key distinction in the realm of disaster recovery is the one between failover and failback. Both terms describe two sides of the same coin, complementary processes that are often brought together.However, their effects and purposes couldn't be more different. Both play critical roles in ensuring business continuity and disaster recovery, making it essential to understand what they are and how they differ.What is Failover?Failover is a business continuity operation that ensures continued access to a system by fully transitioning to another instance of that system. This secondary system is designed to be resilient, ideally unaffected by the event that compromised the primary system.Put simply, failover occurs when connectivity is switched from one system instance to another. This can happen in various ways, including:Editor's Note:This guest blog post was written by the staff at Pure Storage, an US-based publicly traded tech company dedicated to enterprise all-flash data storage solutions. Pure Storage keeps a very active blog, this is one of their "Purely Educational" posts that we are reprinting here with their permission.Switching from a primary system to a standby systemTransitioning to a hot or cold spareActivating a backup system during a failure or for testing purposesSwitching either manually or automaticallyThe critical point about failover is that it involves a complete migration of logical or physical access from the primary system, server, or hosting location to a secondary one.While other processes, such as load balancing, may distribute partial connectivity between system instances or components, they do not qualify as failover because they do not represent a full cutover.What is Failback?Failback is the quintessential disaster recovery operation. It involves a full migration back to the production status quo a recovery if you will at the validated conclusion of a disaster.Failback occurs when a system reverts back to the primary environment after the root cause of a disruption has been addressed. In practice, this looks like a failover, but in reverse. Once the primary system is restored, access is pointed to that system, and the standby is deactivated.This reversion is a critical distinction. Some organizations may have complete standby systems for critical applications, which permit full operations on the standby system. In that case, the standby can rightfully be considered the primary and the repaired former primary the new standby.The Role of Failover and Failback in Disaster RecoveryFailover is critical in a business continuity event because it keeps operations running. By having a system to which your business can transition when a primary system is unavailable, you're able to continue doing business. People can work, revenue streams are preserved, and customers can be served.Without failover, these functions could grind to a halt, leading to significant disruption. Many organizations depend on technology for critical processes, and when those processes are unavailable, analog alternatives may be insufficient or entirely obsolete. Failover ensures that even in a disaster, the business keeps moving.Failback comes into play once the need for failover ends. As the disaster is resolved, failback allows the organization to return to normal operations. Typically, failback is necessary when the standby system cannot sustain operations as effectively as the primary system. For instance, a standby system may not be a full replica of the primary system and might be designed only for temporary use during an emergency.For mission-critical systems, some organizations may build a standby system that is a full replica of the primary. While costly, this approach mitigates the risks of diminished functionality during disasters.The Benefits of Leveraging Both Failover and FailbackIn an ideal world, every business would maintain two fully operational environments: a primary environment and an identical standby environment. This setup would allow for seamless transitions during disasters, ensuring that business operations are completely unaffected.However, that model can effectively double an IT budget: two sets of endpoints, two sets of servers, two sets of cloud environments, two sets of data, staff to support that both in IT and business operations, etc. It's costly and inefficient for any company, to the point where no company truly maintains that support model.Instead, most organizations opt for a failover and failback model because it balances cost and efficiency. With this approach, the standby environment is designed to sustain critical operations during a disaster, even if it's not as robust as the primary system. This makes it more economical, less work is duplicated, and the risk of data loss or impact is lower.It's crucial to maintain a well-designed secondary environment. Cutting costs too deeply on a standby system can result in inefficiencies or financial losses if critical operations are disrupted. Striking the right balance between cost and functionality is key.If uninterrupted business operations are essential, then a strategic failover and failback plan is not optional it's a necessity.

New Line CinemaTable of ContentsTable of Contents10. The Lives of Others (2006)9. There Will Be Blood (2007)8. Children of Men (2006)7. Y tu mam tambin (2001)6. No Country for Old Men (2007)5. Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind (2004)4. In the Mood for Love (2000)3. Spirited Away (2001)2. The Dark Knight (2008)1. The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King (2003)The 2000s brought groundbreaking storytelling and visual spectacles that would set new standards for filmmaking, making it a fantastic decade for fans and critics alike. Those years were a time when Hollywood giants clashed with rising indie auteurs, and animation delivered unexpected hits, ensuring that there were numerous great movies for every type of cinephile.From the landmark The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King to the beloved Spirited Away, the decade delivered several blockbusters and critically acclaimed works that would earn their place in cinematic history. The best movies of the 2000s brought every genre to life with style and substance.Recommended VideosBuena Vista InternationalThe Lives of Others was director Florian Henckel von Donnersmarcks feature film debut, and it chronicles the transformative story of Captain Gerd Wiesler (Ulrich Mhe), a dedicated officer of the Stasi, the notorious East German secret police. When he is assigned to monitor the lives of playwright Georg Dreyman (Sebastian Koch) and his lover, actress Christa-Maria Sieland (Martina Gedeck), Wiesler begins to notice the contrast between his bleak and isolated life and the couples intimate and loving relationship. This newfound empathy makes Wiesler question his loyalty to the oppressive regime, ultimately spurring him to take action.Related10 best movie villains of all time, rankedReleased 17 years after the fall of the Berlin Wall, the 2006 German drama film is a critical portrayal of that turbulent period in time. Its juxtaposition of the tense atmosphere full of surveillance and mistrust in East Germany and the passion and closeness of the couple underscores how humanity can prevail even in the darkest situations. The Lives of Others is a foreign film cinephiles should see at least once, especially since its core themes and messages are still relevant today.Paramount VantageSet during Southern Californias oil boom in the early 20th century, There Will Be Blood follows the cunning and driven silver miner-turned-oilman Daniel Plainview (Daniel Day-Lewis). When he realizes the potential to convince landowners to sell their properties to him for much cheaper than their actual value, he turns up the charm and manipulates and lies to locals for a hefty profit. A preacher, Eli Sunday (Paul Dano), soon recognizes his scheme and sparks a feud that leads to disastrous consequences for everyone involved.An acclaimed film by director Paul Thomas Anderson, There Will Be Blood is a brilliant character study and a chilling reflection of obsession. It soars thanks to an award-winning performance from Daniel Day-Lewis, whose intense portrayal of Plainview captures the deep-seated rage and relentless fixation that would lead him down a violent path. The 2007 movie is a mesmerizing period drama with a reputation that has only grown stronger over the years, securing its place as a defining cinematic work.Universal PicturesChildren of Men takes place in the year 2027, when the world has been plunged into chaos after nearly two decades of global infertility. Directed by Alfonso Cuarn and based on P. D. James 1992 novel, the film primarily focuses on disillusioned civil servant Theo Faron (Clive Owen), who lives in Britain, which is being flocked to by asylum seekers because its the last remaining stable government in the world. When hes tasked with a shocking mission that could change humanitys fate, Theo has to risk everything to complete it.Frequently ranked among the best movies dystopian movies ever made, Children of Men presents a novel and chilling scenario that asks what would happen if all hope for a future was lost. In the process of highlighting this fragility, it explores other contemporary societal issues like immigration, xenophobia, and the loss of human rights. Cuarn packs all of this into a fast-paced and gritty film full of tracking shots and impressive set pieces that help create a nail-biting viewing experience.20th Century FoxSet in 1999 amid Mexicos political and economic changes, Y tu mam tambin (which translates to And Your Mother Too) is a singular work by director Alfonso Cuarn. The coming-of-age road movie follows two teenage friends, Julio (Gael Garca Bernal) and Tenoch (Diego Luna), who embark on a spontaneous road trip with a gorgeous older woman named Luisa (Maribel Verd). Their carefree adventure is fueled by sexual curiosity that influences their evolving relationships.Y tu mam tambin effortlessly reflects the tensions and messy emotions that only the most fleeting aspects of youth can bring. Cuarns direction is intimate and unflinching, capturing the impulsiveness of adolescence and the many painful parts of self-discovery. Set against the backdrop of a country grappling with change, the 2001 film ends up being a seamless blend of the personal and political, with the trios journey inevitably touching on the countrys class disparities and political undercurrents that would dictate its future.Miramax Films, Paramount PicturesWhen Llewelyn Moss (Josh Brolin), a welder and Vietnam War veteran, stumbles upon a drug deal gone wrong and takes a briefcase filled with more than $2 million in cash, he doesnt expect the violent retribution that follows. He sets off a deadly chain of events that sees him pursued by the hit man Anton Chigurh (Javier Bardem), all while experienced lawman Sheriff Ed Tom Bell (Tommy Lee Jones) struggles to understand the scope of whats going on in the desolate landscapes of West Texas in 1980.No Country for Old Men is among the Coen Brothers best movies, with the gripping neo-Western built upon haunting suspense and an impending sense of doom. It also features one of cinemas most iconic villains in Bardems Chigurh. His chilling portrayal of the killer makes every coin toss intensely nerve-wracking. A study in the Journal of Forensic Sciences would even identify his character as the most clinically accurate portrayal of a psychopath in film.Focus FeaturesEternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind is a sci-fi story with a romantic twist from director Michel Gondry. It revolves around Joel Barish (Jim Carrey) and Clementine Kruczynski (Kate Winslet), two former lovers who, after a painful breakup, decide to undergo a medical procedure to erase each other from their memories. As Joels memories of Clementine are systematically erased, he experiences their relationship in reverse, which eventually makes him realize he doesnt want to lose the memories of their time together.Written by Charlie Kaufman and infused with his signature style, Eternal Sunshine is a beautifully surreal film that asks if the pain of lost love could ever truly outshine the value of its vibrant beginnings. Its narrative is also delivered with a grounded sci-fi setting that introduces an interesting possibility for memory manipulation. A cult classic that unfolds in a nonlinear fashion, it allows audiences, much like Joel, to slowly piece together the missing parts of the story with a little help from fate and a train ride.Block 2 PicturesSet in 1960s Hong Kong, In the Mood for Love is a visually stunning masterpiece that follows the lives of Chow Mo-wan (Tony Leung) and Su Li-zhen (Maggie Cheung), two neighbors who discover that their spouses are having an affair with each other. Sharing this unlikely aspect in common, Chow and Su form a deep bond that develops into romantic feelings, but they never act on them. Despite their undeniable connection, they choose to suppress their emotions to avoid repeating the mistakes of their unfaithful partners, settling for unspoken words instead.Directed by Wong Kar-wai, the 2000 film is remembered for its exquisite cinematography that perfectly complements the characters relationship, which is defined by missed opportunities and unfulfilled desires. Tony Leung and Maggie Cheung deliver career-best performances that are a showcase of restraint, with every longing glance and small gesture saying more than words ever could. Two decades later and the dreamlike In the Mood for Love is still among the best romance movies ever made, not to mention an essential work from Asian cinema.TohoSpirited Away is director Hayao Miyazakis crowning achievement and Studio Ghiblis most popular film. It depicts the magical story of 10-year-old Chihiro Ogino (Rumi Hiiragi), who stumbles upon an abandoned amusement park with her parents. As night falls, the park reveals itself to be a fantastical realm and her parents are transformed into pigs by the witch Yubaba (Mari Natsuki). Chihiro must find a way to survive and save them, with the first step being to take a job in Yubabas bathhouse, where she meets a host of unforgettable characters like Haku (Miyu Irino) and No-Face (Akio Nakamura).The 2001 film is a timeless classic that would earn an Academy Award for Best Animated Feature and widespread acclaim for the Japanese director and now-famous studio. At first glance, Spirited Away is a jaw-droppingly captivating depiction of another world where both exciting and terrifying magic coexist. At its core, however, its Chihiros heartwarming coming-of-age tale that has made it such a beloved hit. Watching the initially unsure girl transform into a bold and confident leader makes for a satisfying viewing experience that would define future Ghibli films.Warner Bros. / Image via Warner Bros.Director Christopher Nolan would create what many still consider to be the best portrayal of Batman on the big screen through his legendary trilogy, which peaked with 2008s The Dark Knight. Set in the crime-ridden city of Gotham, it follows Bruce Wayne/Batman (Christian Bale) as he faces his most formidable adversary yet: the Joker (Heath Ledger). The chaotic and nihilistic criminal mastermind seeks to plunge the city into anarchy, but his reign of terror is complicated by the Caped Crusader, along with District Attorney Harvey Dent (Aaron Eckhart) and Lieutenant Jim Gordon (Gary Oldman).The Dark Knight would redefine the superhero genre, with many crediting the film for inspiring grittier and darker cinematic adaptations. Heath Ledgers portrayal of the Joker is iconic, with his magnetic performance and incredible delivery of lines like Why so serious? immediately carving their place in cinematic history. The 2008 film made an indisputable influence on the genre, and its lasting impact on popular culture makes it clear that its one of the decades best and most important movies.New Line CinemaThe Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King is the monumental finale of the acclaimed trilogy directed by Peter Jackson and based on J.R.R. Tolkiens epic fantasy novels. It sees the continuation of Frodo Baggins (Elijah Wood) adventure as he, along with the ever-loyal Sam (Sean Astin), inch closer to Mount Doom to destroy the One Ring. Meanwhile, Aragorn (Viggo Mortensen), Gandalf (Ian McKellen), and the remaining members of the Fellowship prepare for the ultimate battle against Saurons forces. These last legs of their journeys will determine the fate of Middle-earth.After following along for years, fans got the highly anticipated outstanding ending they wanted with The Return of the King. Jackson stuck the landing with a technically brilliant final movie that earned a historic 11 Academy Awards, including Best Picture. The 2003 movie is not just considered a landmark achievement in the fantasy genre, but in filmmaking as a whole, as it would push the boundaries of whats possible and inspire countless other directors and artists around the world. The Return of the King is a fitting conclusion to one of the most ambitious and beloved trilogies in film history, one which will likely be appreciated as a rewatchable classic for generations to come.Editors Recommendations10 best romance movies of all time, ranked

The New York Times has plenty of word games on its roster today with Wordle, Connections, Strands, and the Mini Crossword, theres something for everyone but the newspapers standard crossword puzzle still reigns supreme. The daily crossword is full of interesting trivia, helps improve mental flexibility and, of course, gives you some bragging rights if you manage to finish it every day.While the NYT puzzle might feel like an impossible task some days, solving a crossword is a skill and it takes practice dont get discouraged if you cant get every single word in a puzzle.Recommended VideosIf youre having trouble completing todays NYT Crossword, were here to help. Weve got all the answers for todays clues down below.RelatedNew York TimesAcross1 Cry in a pool game : MARCO6 They might be jam-packed : JARS10 Stimulate, as an appetite : WHET14 Incendiary crime : ARSON15 Nobelist Wiesel : ELIE16 Dance with hand gestures that can represent ocean waves : HULA17 Bank of New Orleans? : LEVEE18 Lecture series with Ideas worth spreading : TEDX19 Kind of theater : IMAX20 : PRICEESTIMATE23 Speak gently : COO24 Multivolume ref. work : OED25 Connecticut governor Lamont : NED26 . : STRETCHOFTIME32 You might pick one to get gold : ORE33 One-named singer featured on the 2013 hit Play Hard : AKON34 Steels (oneself) : GIRDS37 Problem for a homeowner or government worker : LEAK39 Major muddle : SNAFU42 Word with history or surgery : ORAL43 Purveyors of roast beef and Reubens : DELIS45 Gran Canaria, por ejemplo : ISLA47 Experimental musician whose name sounds like a cry : ONO48 : MAKEARUNFORIT52 TV regulatory grp. : FCC54 Sounds from a stumbler : ERS55 Biblical boat : ARK56 / : ROCKGUITARIST61 Evers partner : ANON62 Jack who hosted The Morning Show and The Tonight Show : PAAR63 Selects from a group : CULLS66 One-named singer featured on the 2013 hit Play Hard : NEYO67 Woodworking fastener : TNUT68 Passion : ARDOR69 Fluid-filled sac : CYST70 Fresh answer, maybe : SASS71 OId-fashioned Darn! : NERTSDown1 Prefix with practice : MAL2 There you ___! : ARE3 Invite initials : RSVP4 Strong-arm : COERCE5 The tiniest amount : ONEIOTA6 Ballet bound : JETE7 Safe, at sea : ALEE8 Frees from : RIDSOF9 Volleyball team, e.g. : SEXTET10 Sudden impulse : WHIM11 What self-driving cars and spell check are meant to compensate for : HUMANERROR12 Tickle pink : ELATE13 Put a strain on : TAXED21 Draws back, as before throwing : COCKS22 Groovy, daddy-o! : IDIG26 Auction announcement : SOLD27 Genealogists creation : TREE28 Genuine articles : REALMCCOYS29 Sweetie : HON30 TV studio sign : ONAIR31 Ay, Dios ___! : MIO35 ___ California (Grammy-winning Red Hot Chili Peppers hit) : DANI36 Place on the schedule : SLOT38 Sportage maker : KIA40 Seminoles sch. : FSU41 Of an arm bone : ULNAR44 Fin beneath a surfboard : SKEG46 Like most hippos and hyenas : AFRICAN49 Flies off the handle : ERUPTS50 Competitor of Korean Air : ASIANA51 All right, why not : OKSURE52 Currency of Switzerland : FRANC53 ___ dog (Brooklyn food specialty) : CONEY57 Feature of a bow tie or bowline : KNOT58 Some sorority letters : TAUS59 Partner of letters : ARTS60 Online recap letters : TLDR64 Auction unit : LOT65 Top-grade grp.? : SRSEditors Recommendations

The years outstanding works of fiction and nonfiction, selected by the Books editorial staff.

John Edwards, Technology Journalist & AuthorDecember 4, 20245 Min ReadMarcelo Mayo via Alamy Stock PhotoBoredom is easy to detect, yet difficult to define and even tougher to address. Boredom indicates that a current activity or situation isn't providing sufficient engagement or meaning. An IT leader's goal should be to help bored individuals -- even entire teams -- shift their attention to tasks and activities that are fulfilling and enriching.IT team boredom often stems from mind-numbing repetitive tasks that drain creativity and engagement, observes Carl Herberger, CEO of Corero Network Security, a threat intelligence insights and analysis firm. "The irony is that the very efficiency IT seeks to create can trap teams in a cycle of monotony," he says in an email interview.It all comes down to engagement, says Orla Daly, CIO with workforce development firm Skillsoft. "IT teams may lack engagement because the work isn't considered sufficiently challenging or feels repetitive," she explains in an online interview. Many tech professionals want the opportunity to become familiar with new technologies and to keep their skills up to date. "When organizations fail to provide a good balance of opportunities, team members can become disengaged," Daly notes.Yet engagement isn't just about gaining access to new technologies. If team members attempt to try a new task without enough skills and support resources to be successful, they may become disengaged, Daly cautions. "It's important to couple access with the right support frameworks."Related:Risky BusinessA bored IT team is a ticking time bomb, Herberger warns. "The risks are clear: increased turnover as talent walks out the door, underperformance that drags down productivity, and a contagious drop in morale that can spread like a virus across the organization," he says. "Worse, in a competitive industry, boredom kills innovation, leaving your company vulnerable to being outpaced by more engaged and agile competitors."A disengaged IT team, or team subset, can negatively impact business performance, since members are probably not contributing to their full abilities. "Additionally, it can impact company culture, creating a suboptimal work environment and lowering the drive of more motivated employees," Daly says. She points to a Gallup survey that shows disengaged employees cost organizations worldwide $8.8 trillion in lost productivity. The same report found that companies with actively engaged employees can provide enormous benefits, including 23% higher profitability and 18% lower turnover for high-turnover organizations.Related:Most at RiskIT teams stuck in the trenches of repetitive, mundane tasks -- such as routine maintenance or low-level coding -- are most at risk of succumbing to boredom, Herberger says. "These assignments often fail to provide the intellectual stimulation that keeps talent engaged, turning what could be an incubator for innovation into a dead-end job that saps motivation."Daly agrees. "While individual motivations play a big role, there's a greater risk of disengagement from teams involved in routine, repetitive tasks that could be automated, or where team members do not understand the purpose of their role and how it connects to the overall company performance."SolutionsTo reinvigorate a sagging IT team, Herberger recommends shaking things up by introducing fresh challenges and innovation opportunities: "Whether it's rotating team roles, fostering a culture of collaboration, or carving out time for passion projects, the goal is clear: disrupt the routine, reawaken creativity, and make the team feel like they're part of something bigger than just punching the clock."Meanwhile, empathy and open communication can help IT leaders identify the root causes of disengagement and identify effective solutions, such as pursuing new certificates, establishing mentorships, or reorganizing responsibilities, Daly says. "Engage in exercises that drive innovation," she suggests. "Learning something new generally excites people -- they feel like they're developing, growing, and that tends to get people engaged."Related:Workers often cite a lack of growth and development opportunities as the reason to move to a new job, Daly says. "Build opportunities for employees to propose new ideas and lend their expertise on projects they wouldn't typically be a part of, encouraging these skilled professionals to use the full scope of their abilities." She also stresses the importance of encouraging open communication.Preventative MeasuresProactive leadership is key, says Hiren Hasmukh, CEO of IT asset management solutions provider Teqtivity. "Regular check-ins, setting clear goals, and providing opportunities for professional development can help," he advises via email. "Fostering a culture of innovation, where team members can propose and lead new initiatives, can be very effective."Daly recommends that IT leaders stay close to their workforce in order to understand their engagement levels, manage mundane tasks effectively, and create space for more interesting assignments. To help prevent disengagement, he suggests offering learning opportunities and activities that promote development and growth. "Upskilling and reskilling are essential strategies to combat disengagement in the workforce."A Final ObservationIt's important to recognize that occasional lulls in excitement are normal in any job, Hasmukh says. "The key is to create an environment balanced with periods of challenge and growth."About the AuthorJohn EdwardsTechnology Journalist & AuthorJohn Edwards is a veteran business technology journalist. His work has appeared in The New York Times, The Washington Post, and numerous business and technology publications, including Computerworld, CFO Magazine, IBM Data Management Magazine, RFID Journal, and Electronic Design. He has also written columns for The Economist's Business Intelligence Unit and PricewaterhouseCoopers' Communications Direct. John has authored several books on business technology topics. His work began appearing online as early as 1983. Throughout the 1980s and 90s, he wrote daily news and feature articles for both the CompuServe and Prodigy online services. His "Behind the Screens" commentaries made him the world's first known professional blogger.See more from John EdwardsNever Miss a Beat: Get a snapshot of the issues affecting the IT industry straight to your inbox.SIGN-UPYou May Also LikeReportsMore Reports