Photo by Robert Bredvad. All images courtesy of Bernie Kaminski, shared with permissionBernie Kaminski Invokes Decades Past Through Papier-Mch ObjectsDecember 11, 2024ArtCraftGrace EbertWhen Bernie Kaminski sculpts his papier-mch objects, he does so from a fitting spot: his kitchen table.Using the sticky pulp, the artist creates lifelike iterations of everyday items you might spot on a New York street corner or tucked in an apartment: a Lox bagel with red onion and schmear, a row of metal mailboxes, and a canvas L.L. Bean tote filled with tennis balls. Some works are one-offs, like the tighty whities or payphone, and others form a small part of a larger composition.Kaminskis medicine cabinet, for example, features four shelves filled with various over-the-counter treatments and prescriptions. The branding evokes decades past, and closer inspection reveals tiny price tags glimpsing a time when a trip to the grocery store or pharmacy didnt bring quite as much pain at the cash register as it does today.The box of matchbooks is similar. Bearing names like Jerrys and Odeon, the items recall classic New York restaurants, some of which have been operating for decades and others that closed their doors years ago.Currently, Kaminski is working on a pair of tube socks and preparing for an exhibition in early 2025. You can follow his latest sculptures on Instagram.Photo by Robert BredvadPrevious articleNext article

Artificial Intelligence Newsletter Fox News AI Newsletter: AI app helps you turn anything into LEGO models Stay up to date on the latest AI technology advancements and learn about the challenges and opportunities AI presents By Fox News Staff Fox News Published December 11, 2024 12:15pm EST close Ready to build your own Lego masterpieces with this new tech Turn everyday objects into Lego models. Welcome to Fox News Artificial Intelligence newsletter with the latest AI technology advancements.IN TODAYS NEWSLETTER:- Get ready to build your own Lego masterpieces with this new tech- OpenAI releases text-to-video AI model Sora to certain ChatGPT users- The AI-powered grandma taking on scammers Brick My World app (Brick My World)BUILD LEGO CREATIONS : This innovative app is here to make custom Lego creation fun and accessible for everyone, whether youre a seasoned builder or just getting started. By using advanced artificial intelligence and mobile scanning technology, Brick My World opens up a world of creative possibilities.'OUR HOLIDAY GIFT': OpenAI released its text-to-video artificial intelligence model, Sora, this week after the completion of its testing phase. The OpenAI logo is being displayed on a smartphone with the Sora text-to-video generator visible in the background in this photo illustration, taken in Brussels, Belgium, on February 16, 2024. (Jonathan Raa/NurPhoto via Getty Images)GRANNY FIGHTS BACK: Daisy is an artificial intelligence-powered grandma developed by Virgin Media O2 to interact with scammers. When a scam call comes in, Daisy automatically answers and engages the caller in conversation, wasting their time.'I GOTTA FEELING': [will.i.am doesnt think true artists should worry about artificial intelligence. The Black Eyed Peas singer does think people not involved in the creative process in the music industry are the ones who should worry about AI taking away their jobs. Recording artist will.i.am speaks onstage during Day 2 of the 2024 Invest Fest at Georgia World Congress Center on Aug. 24, 2024, in Atlanta, Georgia. (Paras Griffin/Getty Images)FOLLOW FOX NEWS ON SOCIAL MEDIASIGN UP FOR OUR OTHER NEWSLETTERSDOWNLOAD OUR APPSWATCH FOX NEWS ONLINEFox News GoSTREAM FOX NATIONFox NationStay up to date on the latest AI technology advancements and learn about the challenges and opportunities AI presents now and for the future with Fox Newshere. This article was written by Fox News staff.

Published December 11, 2024 10:00am EST close Food delivery apps have to clean this up: senator Sen. Marsha Blackburn, R-Tenn., joins Fox & Friends Weekend to react to the report finding that food delivery apps are unlawfully paying migrants through app sharing. Imagine walking into a store or browsing online, confident that youre getting the best deals without spending hours hunting for discounts.With the right tools at your fingertips, this can be your reality. We've researched and reviewed seven fantastic options that can help you save both time and money during your holiday shopping spree.From cash-back apps to discount tools, these strategies will ensure you check off every item on your wish list without breaking the bank. Ready to save some money? Let's dive in. A woman shopping on an app (Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson)1. Retailer apps and manufacturer sitesDownloading big retailer apps can lead to more savings that cannot be found in stores or online. FromTarget andWalmart to your local drugstore, many offer secret app-only savings and offers.Retailers are trying to get us to shop more with their own app by combining an app purchase with an in-store pickup that can at times offer additional savings. Look for each app in the official Apple app store and Google Play Store, never from a link or other site. A woman shopping on her laptop (Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson)2.Cash-back shopping appsCashback shopping apps likeRakuten let you earn cash back when shopping online. According to Rakuten, thousands of retailers participate in the savings. Image of the Rakuten welcome page (Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson)How it works is simple.Register for free online, then use their app or website while shopping at retailers that offer a commission for sending you to their shopping site.Rakuten shares a portion of the commission it earns with you. Once you earn enough cash-back savings, you can choose to receive a check, have it paid to your PayPal account or use the American Express rewards program.I've mentioned this appbefore. Ibotta is an app that you use for couponing and gives you cash back on items youre already purchasing at your favorite stores, including grocery stores, food delivery, movie and concert tickets, and more. Image of Ibotta app (Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson)Some of the most popular retailers you can find deals with through Ibotta are CVS, Walgreens, Target, Lowes, Petco, Dominos Pizza, REI and more than 1,500 brands and retailers.If you scroll to the bottom of the app, youll see a section called "Special Deals." If you scroll, youll see a panel called "Free made easy: All free offers all in one place." Ibotta special deals section of app (Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson)Copy the code to insert into the Referral code box on Ibotta "Create account" page:mpiaurmWHAT IS ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (AI)?3. Discount and price comparison apps Image of Flipp welcome back (Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson)Discount appslike Flipp aggregate sales fliers and store circulars. All you do is put in your zip code and start browsing for savings from thousands of popular retailers.The Watch List lets you track items from your holiday shopping list.Make sure to create a tight shopping list of each item to track in case prices go down before or after your purchase.4. Automatic coupon code appsPayPal Honey leads the pack by automatically entering coupon codes into the promo code field when checking out at 5,500+ retail sites. Image of PayPal Honey welcome back (Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson)How it works: You can use the PayPal Honey app directly, but you are better off using it the way it was designed as a browser extension.Once added to your browser, it tracks where you are shopping and applies the best coupon codes without you needing to do anything.Just watch the total price drop as you are checking out when there is a match to a good discount.The PayPal Honey browser add-on is available on Safari, Chrome, Edge, Firefox, Opera and Edge browsers. Again, for security, only download directly through your browser and not from a link or email offer.GET FOX BUSINESS ON THE GO BY CLICKING HEREPayPal paid $4 billion dollars for the automated coupon code technology browser add-on.That's when Honey becamePayPal Honey you will find here.While it has come under fire by Amazon for privacy concerns, upon close examination it does not collect anything more than most other shopping technologies and says it does not resell customer shopping data.Maybe Amazon does not like that it works with Amazon, too, which can drive down prices.5. Shop refurbished and like newAmazon Warehouse has millions of open boxes, refurbished, renewed and used goods.Few know that retail giant Amazon has a renewed outlet shopping area that can save you when buying items in good-to-like-new condition.Make sure you get a very good understanding of an item's condition before buying.You are protected by Amazon's policies making it easier to return the rare dud. Image of Amazon Warehouse page (Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson)BookFinder.com buys and sells used textbooks. Search with your teacher or professors textbook ISBN to make sure you are getting the exact match. Watch that you have thoroughly checked the condition of any used textbook before pulling the trigger at checkout. Avoid textbooks that say there are notations on the various pages, as these may not be the notes that earn you a good grade.6. Buy discounted gift cardsYou can buydiscounted gift cards or sell unwanted gift cards for cash. I also recommend that you check the balance and expiration date of your gift cards before using them and use them as soon as possible to avoid losing them or forgetting about them.Check out the best way to buy gift cards ever by clicking here.7. Set deal alertsSetDeal Alerts at Slickdeals.net. This community of millions of fellow shoppers is looking for and sharing the best deals. When the price reaches a desired level, you'll receive a notification so you don't miss the deal.Pro tip:I like to track larger dollar items and then create a calendar entry in my phone reminding me of the last day to reprice a purchase so that I can potentially get money back when the price goes down after the sale.Make sure it's a deal by using price tracking sites likeCamelcamelcamel.com, which shows the history of sale prices.Kurts key takeawaysAs we gear up for the holiday shopping season, remember that saving money doesn't have to be a chore. With the right tools and strategies at your disposal, you can enjoy a stress-free shopping experience while keeping your budget intact. Whether you choose cash-back apps, discount tools or retailer-specific offers, there's something out there for everyone. So, why not dive in and start exploring these options?CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APPWhat are some of the absolute best deals you have found using these tools or other methods? Let us know by writing us at Cyberguy.com/Contact.For more of my tech tips and security alerts, subscribe to my free CyberGuy Report Newsletter by heading to Cyberguy.com/Newsletter.Follow Kurt on his social channels:Answers to the most asked CyberGuy questions:New from Kurt:Copyright 2024 CyberGuy.com. All rights reserved. Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson is an award-winning tech journalist who has a deep love of technology, gear and gadgets that make life better with his contributions for Fox News & FOX Business beginning mornings on "FOX & Friends." Got a tech question? Get Kurts free CyberGuy Newsletter, share your voice, a story idea or comment at CyberGuy.com.

Russia is focusing its cyber attacks against Ukraine, rather than stepping up its attacks against the West in response to decisions by the US and the UK to allow Ukraine to use long-range missiles on Russian territory.In an interview with Computer Weekly, Paul Chichester, the director of operations of the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC), part of the Government Communications Headquarters (GCHQ), said that Russia had not used cyber attacks to respond tactically against increasing military support for Ukraine.Russian cyber operations have been at a high level since the start of the Ukraine conflict, but Russias primary purpose remains to support military operations on the Ukraine battlefield, he said.Former NCSC CEO and founder Ciaran Martin, now a director of security skills and training body the SANS Institute, said initial predictions that the Ukraine war would lead to a concerted cyber campaign against the West had not materialised.Going into the war, there were two big predictions, he told Computer Weekly. One was that Russia would use heavy cyber effects against Ukraine. They have tried that, but the impact can be debated.But the other assumption was they would try much more aggressive cyber blips, if you like, against Western allies of Ukraine, added Martin.But no serious scholar of cyber security thinks theyve done [that]. Its observably untrue.Salt TyphoonThe NCSC said its keeping a watching brief on attacks by Chinese hacking operation Salt Typhoon, which has hit US telecoms networks, including AT&T, Verizon and Lumen Technologies, placing the personal information of millions of people at risk.The attack, which has reportedly been underway for at least two years, has given Chinese hackers access to unencrypted messages and voice calls, and has enabled them to target the personal information of senior political figures in the US.Chichester said the British intelligence services were trying to assess the impact of the threat on the UK.Were still learning what that threat is, he said. It appears to be very focused on the US at the moment, but that doesnt mean were complacent. We will continue to look at the UK angles to that and respond to them as and when they occur.The UKs introduction of the Product Security and Telecoms Infrastructure Act 2012, which came into force this year, placed legal duties on manufacturers of electronic and home devices to protect consumers and businesses from cyber attacks.Chichester said that the act, together with telecoms security regulations that are being phased in over the next couple of years, aim to design-out vulnerabilities that could be exploited by attacks like Salt Typhoon.I think that the UK has been considering these kinds of vulnerabilities for some significant time, and has brought forward legislation and regulations with [telecoms regulator] Ofcom and others to absolutely try and increase resilience against those kinds of attacks, he said. We all know that defenders make mistakes, and thats all an attacker sometimes needs. But genuinely a lot of the things that are being required of operators in the UK are things that I know the US are looking at, and other countries are as well.Read more about Salt TyphoonChinese hacking of US telecom networks raises questions about the exploitation by hostile hacking groups of government backdoors to provide lawful access to telecoms services.Following the widespread Salt Typhoon hacks of US telecoms operators including AT&T and Verizon, CISA and partner agencies have launched refreshed security guidance for network engineers and defenders alike.Martin said that UK telecoms companies and the NCSC were aware of weaknesses and vulnerabilities in the telecoms network, and it was a question of how quickly they can be rectified before they can be exploited by threat actors.I think there are certain advantages that allow the UK to try to manage Salt Typhoon-style operations which arent available to allied countries, he said.Chichester said that much of the tradecraft used by cyber security attackers in Salt Typhoon and other attacks had been anticipated by government and industry ahead of time.Although its not possible to know every attack plan, simple strategies such as telcos separating operational and management infrastructure will reduce the risks.Just putting certain requirements and security around the administration of those networks cuts off a lot of vectors, he said. You might not know how the adversary is going to do it, but if you architect it in a certain way, then thats what gives you resilience.The UK government is working with telcos collaboratively to develop security regulations and technologies to block a variety of potential attacks, said Chichester.This has led to a back and forth between the NCSC and telcos, to see what might work, and what security measures are possible.One long-running debate is whether governments are right to attribute hacking attacks to the nation state responsible. Former NCSC CEO Martin said that where the identity of a nation-state hacker was known, it should be disclosed unless there were good reasons not to do so.Chichester said that identifying an attacker publicly can make it easier to get the message across to companies that they need to take action.At the end of the day, if you want to communicate to people, weve got to make it about people, either the adversary or the victim, he said. Youve got to tell a story. I think [naming an attacker] is a really powerful communications tool that we would like to use where we can. And so I think it helps defenders.It helps you kind of think and visualise, because, you know, as an organisation, OK, do I care about Russia, China or Iran? added Chichester.The cyber security director said the NCSC and the UK government publicly attributed cyber attacks for a variety of reasons, including to build coalitions and increase the political cost of cyber attacks.I dont think anybody genuinely thinks that attributions or public indictments or sanctions will ever prevent a state from doing this, but that is not what its about, he said.But when an attribution is accompanied by a court indictment naming individuals responsible for a hacking operation, that can be a powerful tool, said Martin. That does give you credibility, he added. It really does.

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All-in-one (AIO) computers can do it all without sacrificing valuable desk space. These often-stylish AIO systems build the processor, storage, and other components directly into the display, so you don't need a separate desktop tower, and you have fewer cables cluttering up your work area. AIO computers are convenient but have a few drawbacks compared to traditional desktop PCs.These systems often have less powerful components, few (or no) upgrade options, and reduced repairability. For this reason, it's important that you buy the right AIO computer at the outset. An AIO computer is a great fit for households that need a space-efficient computer with a decent-sized screen and won't miss a laptop's portability.What is the best all-in-one computer you can buy right now?We went hands-on with several all-in-one computers across various categories, covering different price points, use cases, and operating systems. Our top pick isApple's 24-inch iMac, was chosen for its strong performance, high-resolution display, and eye-catching design. Of course, the iMac is not the only option out there, and we found plenty of appealing Windows-based choices for different needs. Read on for the rest of our picks to help you find the best AIO computer for you. Sort by All The best all-in-one computers of 2024 Show less Taking the top spot on this list should come as no surprise -- it is the 2024 iteration of the Apple iMac. This year's iteration takes everything good of the previous generation and improves upon it.The 2024 iMac is a versatile AiO powered by the company's M4 chipset, which outperforms the older M3 processor by a good amount. Thanks to AI, workflows are enhanced, enabling faster speeds for productivity and creative tasks such as 4K video editing. Plus, the base model now includes 16GB of RAM, providing better multitasking capabilities while maintaining its $1,299 price tag.The iMac still shouldn't be considered a gaming machine by any stretch; however, the 10-core GPU does support ray tracing and dynamic caching. These pieces of software allowed for a decent gaming experience.Also:I tested the new iMac M4, and one of the standout upgrades is also the least flashyIt houses a 24-inch, 4.5K resolution Retina display for sharp and vivid imagery. What's neat about the computer is it can output to another screen at 8K resolution or to a dual-monitor setup at 6K resolution each. Other notable features include a 12MP webcam that comes with Center Stage for automatic graming, support for the USB-C standard, and a thin design available in a wide array of colors.Apple iMac 24-inch (M4, 2023) specs: OS:MacOS Sequoia (MacOS 15) |CPU:Apple M4 (10-core) |GPU:Apple M4 (10-core) |RAM: 16GB, 24GB (unified memory), 32GB (unified memory) |Storage256GB, 512GB, 1TB, 2TB |Camera:1080p Center Stage|Audio:3 mic array, 6 speakers |Dimensions:21.5 x 18.1 x 5.8 inches|Weight:9.7 lbs Pros Fast performance Affordable Stylish design Cons The M4 isn't a big upgrade over the M3 Taking the top spot on this list should come as no surprise -- it is the 2024 iteration of the Apple iMac. This year's iteration takes everything good of the previous generation and improves upon it.The 2024 iMac is a versatile AiO powered by the company's M4 chipset, which outperforms the older M3 processor by a good amount. Thanks to AI, workflows are enhanced, enabling faster speeds for productivity and creative tasks such as 4K video editing. Plus, the base model now includes 16GB of RAM, providing better multitasking capabilities while maintaining its $1,299 price tag.The iMac still shouldn't be considered a gaming machine by any stretch; however, the 10-core GPU does support ray tracing and dynamic caching. These pieces of software allowed for a decent gaming experience.Also:I tested the new iMac M4, and one of the standout upgrades is also the least flashyIt houses a 24-inch, 4.5K resolution Retina display for sharp and vivid imagery. What's neat about the computer is it can output to another screen at 8K resolution or to a dual-monitor setup at 6K resolution each. Other notable features include a 12MP webcam that comes with Center Stage for automatic graming, support for the USB-C standard, and a thin design available in a wide array of colors.Apple iMac 24-inch (M4, 2023) specs: OS:MacOS Sequoia (MacOS 15) |CPU:Apple M4 (10-core) |GPU:Apple M4 (10-core) |RAM: 16GB, 24GB (unified memory), 32GB (unified memory) |Storage256GB, 512GB, 1TB, 2TB |Camera:1080p Center Stage|Audio:3 mic array, 6 speakers |Dimensions:21.5 x 18.1 x 5.8 inches|Weight:9.7 lbs Read More Show Expert Take Show less Show less View now at HP The HP EliteOne 870 G9 is the rare AIO computer with a ridiculous number of ways you can customize your unit. Its high degree of customizability makes this business-centric model stand out from the crowd. As noted earlier, AIO computers are not easy to fix or upgrade, so it's important you pick a system with everything you need from the get-go.Also:How much RAM does your Windows 11 PC need?The base model starts with a modest Intel Core i3-12100 CPU, but you can choose from several options, including upgrading to a 13th-generation Intel Core i7-13700 processor. You can also upgrade from a 1080p display to a 2K pixel display, with or without a touchscreen. Memory starts at 8GB of RAM and scales up to a massive 64GB. You can purchase up to three separate M.2 SSDs if you purchase Windows 11 Pro, for a total of 4TB of storage (at a significant premium over the base price, of course). Also, the adjustable stand can have a VESA cover plate instead of a clutch.Further customizations include adding a fingerprint reader, speakers, and integrated wireless (Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3). Because you can customize so much, the price for the EliteOne varies wildly. A baseline pre-configured model starts at just under $2,000, though some configs can sell for less, and most will sell for more.HP EliteOne 870 G9specs:OS:Windows 11 |CPU:Intel Core i3-12100|GPU:Intel UHD Graphics 730|RAM:8GB|Storage:256GB |Camera:1080p|Audio:Internal Stereo Speakers|Dimensions:24.17 x 9.72 x 23.6 in|Weight:25.57 lb Pros Reliable performance Highly configurable 27-inch screen Single base stand Cons Very expensive The HP EliteOne 870 G9 is the rare AIO computer with a ridiculous number of ways you can customize your unit. Its high degree of customizability makes this business-centric model stand out from the crowd. As noted earlier, AIO computers are not easy to fix or upgrade, so it's important you pick a system with everything you need from the get-go.Also:How much RAM does your Windows 11 PC need?The base model starts with a modest Intel Core i3-12100 CPU, but you can choose from several options, including upgrading to a 13th-generation Intel Core i7-13700 processor. You can also upgrade from a 1080p display to a 2K pixel display, with or without a touchscreen. Memory starts at 8GB of RAM and scales up to a massive 64GB. You can purchase up to three separate M.2 SSDs if you purchase Windows 11 Pro, for a total of 4TB of storage (at a significant premium over the base price, of course). Also, the adjustable stand can have a VESA cover plate instead of a clutch.Further customizations include adding a fingerprint reader, speakers, and integrated wireless (Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3). Because you can customize so much, the price for the EliteOne varies wildly. A baseline pre-configured model starts at just under $2,000, though some configs can sell for less, and most will sell for more.HP EliteOne 870 G9specs:OS:Windows 11 |CPU:Intel Core i3-12100|GPU:Intel UHD Graphics 730|RAM:8GB|Storage:256GB |Camera:1080p|Audio:Internal Stereo Speakers|Dimensions:24.17 x 9.72 x 23.6 in|Weight:25.57 lb Read More Show Expert Take Show less Show less Buying an AIO computer can be an expensive endeavor, but it doesn't have to be -- as this Dell Inspiron 24 5420 shows. This Dell is one of the many inexpensive AIOs out there that deliver solid performance, and it stands out for its range of inputs.Inexpensive models tend to cut corners by opting for smaller screen sizes, old hardware, and such. But not the Inspiron 5420. As its name suggests, it sports a 24-inch InfinityEdge display with 1,920 x 1080 pixels and a 60Hz refresh rate. InfinityEdge is Dell's term for its thin bezel design. The display also has an anti-glare coating ensuring the picture remains crystal clear even in bright environments.Also:How much RAM does your Windows 11 PC need?Inside, the Inspiron 5420 comes with a solid hardware configuration. The mid-range configuration listed here has a 13th-Gen Intel Core i5-1335U processor, an integrated Intel UHD graphics card, 8GB of memory, and 512GB of storage. You can adjust some of the components (which scales the price up or down accordingly), but keep in mind some upgrades are tied to one another. For example, step up to a beefier build with a 1TB SSD, and you also need to upgrade the graphics to an NVIDIA GeForce MX550 GPU, the processor an Intel Core i7-1355U, and the memory to 16GB.One quirk worth noting: This AIO only comes with a single USB-C port. What's strange is that the Inspiron 5420 has an array of ports, including HDMI, RJ45, and USB-A. You'd think Dell would've added at least one more USB-C input to the setup.Dell Inspiron 24 5420 specs:OS:Windows 11 |CPU:13th Gen Intel Core i5-1335U |GPU:Intel UHD graphics card|RAM:8GB |Storage512GB|Camera:1080p |Audio:Stereo speakers with Waves MaxxAUdio Pro|Dimensions:21.36 x 1.58 x 16.21 in|Weight:11.55 lbs Pros Configurable Affordable Solid performance Wide array of ports Cons Single USB-C port Buying an AIO computer can be an expensive endeavor, but it doesn't have to be -- as this Dell Inspiron 24 5420 shows. This Dell is one of the many inexpensive AIOs out there that deliver solid performance, and it stands out for its range of inputs.Inexpensive models tend to cut corners by opting for smaller screen sizes, old hardware, and such. But not the Inspiron 5420. As its name suggests, it sports a 24-inch InfinityEdge display with 1,920 x 1080 pixels and a 60Hz refresh rate. InfinityEdge is Dell's term for its thin bezel design. The display also has an anti-glare coating ensuring the picture remains crystal clear even in bright environments.Also:How much RAM does your Windows 11 PC need?Inside, the Inspiron 5420 comes with a solid hardware configuration. The mid-range configuration listed here has a 13th-Gen Intel Core i5-1335U processor, an integrated Intel UHD graphics card, 8GB of memory, and 512GB of storage. You can adjust some of the components (which scales the price up or down accordingly), but keep in mind some upgrades are tied to one another. For example, step up to a beefier build with a 1TB SSD, and you also need to upgrade the graphics to an NVIDIA GeForce MX550 GPU, the processor an Intel Core i7-1355U, and the memory to 16GB.One quirk worth noting: This AIO only comes with a single USB-C port. What's strange is that the Inspiron 5420 has an array of ports, including HDMI, RJ45, and USB-A. You'd think Dell would've added at least one more USB-C input to the setup.Dell Inspiron 24 5420 specs:OS:Windows 11 |CPU:13th Gen Intel Core i5-1335U |GPU:Intel UHD graphics card|RAM:8GB |Storage512GB|Camera:1080p |Audio:Stereo speakers with Waves MaxxAUdio Pro|Dimensions:21.36 x 1.58 x 16.21 in|Weight:11.55 lbs Read More Show Expert Take Show less Show less View now at Best Buy The inclusion of the Surface Studio 2+ here may seem strange to some. It runs on an old 11th-Gen Intel Core i7 processor instead of the recent 12th-Gen version, and the bezels around the screen are pretty thick, robbing the display of its potential size. But Microsoft's computer has a lot of things going for it that still earn it a spot on this list. Chief among them is its Zero Gravity Hinge, which allows you to position the screen at an angle. Being able to adjust the screen in this manner is great for creative professionals who need to draw, but don't have a tablet. You can instead illustrate directly on the touchscreen.Speaking of which, the touchscreen on the Surface Studio is fantastic. It has an image resolution of 4,500 x 3,000 pixels, which is better than 4K. This level of quality is further enhanced by its support for the DCI-P3 color gamut and Dolby Vision. What's more, it has a 1200:1 contrast ratio. Putting everything together results in a display capable of showing vibrant colors in stunning quality.Review:Microsoft Surface Studio 2+: Elegant, flexible all-in-one PC gets an upgradeGoing back to the hardware, the computer can be surprisingly strong thanks to its Nvidia GeForce RTX 3060 graphic card. it gives professionals a powerful enough GPU to render 3D objects. Plus, the 3060 model is quite good at meeting the performance requirements for video editing. That type of work can be tough on other AIOs, but the Surface Studio 2+ handles them with ease.Other notable features include 1TB, 32GB of RAM, three USB-C ports, and a 1080p webcam.Microsoft Surface Studio 2+specs: OS:Windows 11 Pro|CPU:Intel Core i7-11370H |GPU:GeForce RTX 3060 Laptop GPU, GeForce RTX 3060 Laptop GPU (6GB) |RAM:32GB (DDR4) |Storage:1TB SSD |Camera:1080p + IR for Windows Hello face authentication |Audio:stereo 2.1 speakers with Dolby Atmos, dual far-field studio mics, 3.5mm headphone jack |Dimensions:Base: 9.8 x 8.7 x 1.2 inches Display: 25.1 x 17.3 x 0.5 inches|Weight:21 lbs Pros Flexible screen hinge Excellent 28-inch 3:2 screen Good GPU performance Three Thunderbolt 4 ports Cons Processor is a little old Screen bezels could be narrower The inclusion of the Surface Studio 2+ here may seem strange to some. It runs on an old 11th-Gen Intel Core i7 processor instead of the recent 12th-Gen version, and the bezels around the screen are pretty thick, robbing the display of its potential size. But Microsoft's computer has a lot of things going for it that still earn it a spot on this list. Chief among them is its Zero Gravity Hinge, which allows you to position the screen at an angle. Being able to adjust the screen in this manner is great for creative professionals who need to draw, but don't have a tablet. You can instead illustrate directly on the touchscreen.Speaking of which, the touchscreen on the Surface Studio is fantastic. It has an image resolution of 4,500 x 3,000 pixels, which is better than 4K. This level of quality is further enhanced by its support for the DCI-P3 color gamut and Dolby Vision. What's more, it has a 1200:1 contrast ratio. Putting everything together results in a display capable of showing vibrant colors in stunning quality.Review:Microsoft Surface Studio 2+: Elegant, flexible all-in-one PC gets an upgradeGoing back to the hardware, the computer can be surprisingly strong thanks to its Nvidia GeForce RTX 3060 graphic card. it gives professionals a powerful enough GPU to render 3D objects. Plus, the 3060 model is quite good at meeting the performance requirements for video editing. That type of work can be tough on other AIOs, but the Surface Studio 2+ handles them with ease.Other notable features include 1TB, 32GB of RAM, three USB-C ports, and a 1080p webcam.Microsoft Surface Studio 2+specs: OS:Windows 11 Pro|CPU:Intel Core i7-11370H |GPU:GeForce RTX 3060 Laptop GPU, GeForce RTX 3060 Laptop GPU (6GB) |RAM:32GB (DDR4) |Storage:1TB SSD |Camera:1080p + IR for Windows Hello face authentication |Audio:stereo 2.1 speakers with Dolby Atmos, dual far-field studio mics, 3.5mm headphone jack |Dimensions:Base: 9.8 x 8.7 x 1.2 inches Display: 25.1 x 17.3 x 0.5 inches|Weight:21 lbs Read More Show Expert Take Show less Show less View now at Amazon HP is in a unique position among AIO manufacturers because of its huge presence in the market. The company makes a lot of great AIO computers to the point where you could arguably fill out this entire list with HP models. However, we decided to slim things down to one of its best offerings: the Envy 34.This thing is a beast, measuring 34 inches diagonally and making one of, if not the, largest AIO machine out there. Most of these devices peak at 27 inches, yet HP pushed the limits. So, what do you get with this one? An outrageous 5K (5,120 x 2,160) WUHD display. It supports nearly the entirety of the DCI-P3 color gamut, enabling eye-catching colors. Plus, it has a brightness configuration of 500 nits for crystal clear quality. HP even covered the glass with an anti-reflection coating so you can continue seeing the screen even if the sun is peeking through the blinds.For 2024, the company slimmed down its offerings by only having a single Envy 34 configuration on sale. Don't worry though; it's still plenty powerful. The computer has a 12th-Gen Intel Core i7 processor, 16GB of RAM, and a 1TB SSD. It houses an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 as its graphics card. Although it isn't the latest model, that GPU delivers great performance allowing for high-resolution rendering.Purchasing the HP Envy 34 also includes a free mouse and keyboard as well as a 16MP True Vision adjustable webcam.HP Envy 34 All-In-One (2024)specs: OS:Windows 11 Pro |CPU: 12th-Gen Intel Core i7-12700|GPU:Nvidia GeForce RTX 3050 (4GB) |RAM:16GB DDR5 RAM |Storage:1TB |Camera: HP True Vision 16MP moveable camera |Audio:Dual 2W Bang & Olufsen speakers |Dimensions32.17 x 14.5 x 8.78 inches |Weight:24.3 lbs Pros 34-inch 5K display Great performance Free mouse and keyboard Cons Expensive HP is in a unique position among AIO manufacturers because of its huge presence in the market. The company makes a lot of great AIO computers to the point where you could arguably fill out this entire list with HP models. However, we decided to slim things down to one of its best offerings: the Envy 34.This thing is a beast, measuring 34 inches diagonally and making one of, if not the, largest AIO machine out there. Most of these devices peak at 27 inches, yet HP pushed the limits. So, what do you get with this one? An outrageous 5K (5,120 x 2,160) WUHD display. It supports nearly the entirety of the DCI-P3 color gamut, enabling eye-catching colors. Plus, it has a brightness configuration of 500 nits for crystal clear quality. HP even covered the glass with an anti-reflection coating so you can continue seeing the screen even if the sun is peeking through the blinds.For 2024, the company slimmed down its offerings by only having a single Envy 34 configuration on sale. Don't worry though; it's still plenty powerful. The computer has a 12th-Gen Intel Core i7 processor, 16GB of RAM, and a 1TB SSD. It houses an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 as its graphics card. Although it isn't the latest model, that GPU delivers great performance allowing for high-resolution rendering.Purchasing the HP Envy 34 also includes a free mouse and keyboard as well as a 16MP True Vision adjustable webcam.HP Envy 34 All-In-One (2024)specs: OS:Windows 11 Pro |CPU: 12th-Gen Intel Core i7-12700|GPU:Nvidia GeForce RTX 3050 (4GB) |RAM:16GB DDR5 RAM |Storage:1TB |Camera: HP True Vision 16MP moveable camera |Audio:Dual 2W Bang & Olufsen speakers |Dimensions32.17 x 14.5 x 8.78 inches |Weight:24.3 lbs Read More Show Expert Take Show less Show less After a long day's work, nothing beats kicking up your feet and watching a movie. If you're looking for an AIO computer to double as an entertainment center, then we strongly recommend the Lenovo Yoga AIO 9i from Lenovo. It has a stunning 32-inch Ultra HD 4K (3,840 x 2,160 pixels) display, making it perfect for viewing movies or editing 4K video. The screen produces vibrant colors and crisp detail.Also: The best graphic design monitorsThis model has a Harmon Kardon-certified audio system comprised of a pair of tweeters and two woofers. And it supports Dolby Atmos audio. In our review of the Yoga AIO 9i, we noted how this AIO's speakers output immersive audio, with deep bass and powerful treble. Even dialogue in TV shows sounded crystal clear. The speakers are loud, which means you could keep the volume at a mere 30 percent and still feel enveloped by immersive audio.The Yoga AIO 9i comes with a 13th-Gen Intel Core i9-13000H processor, 16GB of memory, and a 512GB SSD (if you're lucky, you can catch the 1TB version on sale on Lenovo's site for less than the 512GB version). When using this hardware for everyday work, it quickly becomes apparent that this was a powerful combination, enough so for keeping open multiple apps, windows, and browser tabs while also playing multiple videos -- all without suffering a significant slowdown. Plus, when we ran it through our benchmark tests, it scored high numbers.As much as we like this computer, it's not perfect. It looks attractive, with a metal bar connecting the screen to the base. But it also has some awkward design elements, most notably that the ports are on the back of the base in a hard-to-reach place. The port location can make connecting accessories more difficult than it should be. Regardless of hiccups like that, this is still a great machine.Lenovo Yoga AIO 9i specs: OS:Windows 11 |CPU:13th-gen Intel Core i9-13900H|GPU:Integrated Intel Iris Xe|Storage:512GB |Camera:5MP RGB + IR|Audio:2x 2W Harman Kardon-certified tweeters, 2x 5W Hardman Kardon-certified woofers|Dimensions:21.19 x 28.50 x 9.96 inches |Weight:18.01 lbs Pros Stunning 32-inch 4K screen Four Harman Kardon-certified speakers Supports Wi-Fi 6E for fast connectivity Comes with wireless keyboard and mouse Cons Limited performance from Iris Xe GPU Ports are in hard-to-reach spot Only one USB 4 port After a long day's work, nothing beats kicking up your feet and watching a movie. If you're looking for an AIO computer to double as an entertainment center, then we strongly recommend the Lenovo Yoga AIO 9i from Lenovo. It has a stunning 32-inch Ultra HD 4K (3,840 x 2,160 pixels) display, making it perfect for viewing movies or editing 4K video. The screen produces vibrant colors and crisp detail.Also: The best graphic design monitorsThis model has a Harmon Kardon-certified audio system comprised of a pair of tweeters and two woofers. And it supports Dolby Atmos audio. In our review of the Yoga AIO 9i, we noted how this AIO's speakers output immersive audio, with deep bass and powerful treble. Even dialogue in TV shows sounded crystal clear. The speakers are loud, which means you could keep the volume at a mere 30 percent and still feel enveloped by immersive audio.The Yoga AIO 9i comes with a 13th-Gen Intel Core i9-13000H processor, 16GB of memory, and a 512GB SSD (if you're lucky, you can catch the 1TB version on sale on Lenovo's site for less than the 512GB version). When using this hardware for everyday work, it quickly becomes apparent that this was a powerful combination, enough so for keeping open multiple apps, windows, and browser tabs while also playing multiple videos -- all without suffering a significant slowdown. Plus, when we ran it through our benchmark tests, it scored high numbers.As much as we like this computer, it's not perfect. It looks attractive, with a metal bar connecting the screen to the base. But it also has some awkward design elements, most notably that the ports are on the back of the base in a hard-to-reach place. The port location can make connecting accessories more difficult than it should be. Regardless of hiccups like that, this is still a great machine.Lenovo Yoga AIO 9i specs: OS:Windows 11 |CPU:13th-gen Intel Core i9-13900H|GPU:Integrated Intel Iris Xe|Storage:512GB |Camera:5MP RGB + IR|Audio:2x 2W Harman Kardon-certified tweeters, 2x 5W Hardman Kardon-certified woofers|Dimensions:21.19 x 28.50 x 9.96 inches |Weight:18.01 lbs Read More Show Expert Take Show less Show less View now at Shop.asus If you didn't know, ASUS develops its own series of AIO computers. No one can blame you for not knowing this, as the brand is more famous for its gaming hardware. It would be remiss of you not to know the great machines they have, like the M3700.This is an excellent computer for the office thanks to its clean-looking design and solid performance. Its visually pleasing aesthetics are partly owed to the razor-thin NanoEdge bezel surrounding the screen. The large screen-to-body ratio is perfect for viewing family photos and watching videos. The Full HD resolution (1,920 x 1,080 pixels) display shows content in a stunning visual quality. It even covers the entire sRGB color gamut, enabling "vivid and realistic-looking colors." To further sweeten the deal, the glass on the M3700 is covered in an anti-glare coating so it stays clear even in bright environments.The company equipped its AIO with some of its proprietary tech. Its display supports ASUS Splendid, an image-enhancing feature to boost color vibrancy. The installed speakers come with SonicMaster to ensure voices and vocal performance come across crystal clear. ASUS' M3700 would be a perfect office computer if it weren't for its 720p webcam -- a higher resolution would've been nice.Under the hood, the M3700 can come with an AMD Ryzen 7 5825U, integrated AMD Radeon GPU, and a nice 32GB of memory for speedy hardware performance.ASUS M3700 specs: OS:Windows 11|CPU: AMD Ryzen 5700U, AMD Ryzen 7 5825U|GPU:Integrated AMD Radeon Graphics|RAM: Up to 32GB DDR4 |Storage: 512 GB, 1 TB |Camera: 720p HD camera|Audio:Two built-in speakers|Dimensions 24.13 x 17.95 x 8.54 inches|Weight:19.18 lbs Pros Eye-catching design Hi-res display Booming speakers Solid hardware Cons 720p camera If you didn't know, ASUS develops its own series of AIO computers. No one can blame you for not knowing this, as the brand is more famous for its gaming hardware. It would be remiss of you not to know the great machines they have, like the M3700.This is an excellent computer for the office thanks to its clean-looking design and solid performance. Its visually pleasing aesthetics are partly owed to the razor-thin NanoEdge bezel surrounding the screen. The large screen-to-body ratio is perfect for viewing family photos and watching videos. The Full HD resolution (1,920 x 1,080 pixels) display shows content in a stunning visual quality. It even covers the entire sRGB color gamut, enabling "vivid and realistic-looking colors." To further sweeten the deal, the glass on the M3700 is covered in an anti-glare coating so it stays clear even in bright environments.The company equipped its AIO with some of its proprietary tech. Its display supports ASUS Splendid, an image-enhancing feature to boost color vibrancy. The installed speakers come with SonicMaster to ensure voices and vocal performance come across crystal clear. ASUS' M3700 would be a perfect office computer if it weren't for its 720p webcam -- a higher resolution would've been nice.Under the hood, the M3700 can come with an AMD Ryzen 7 5825U, integrated AMD Radeon GPU, and a nice 32GB of memory for speedy hardware performance.ASUS M3700 specs: OS:Windows 11|CPU: AMD Ryzen 5700U, AMD Ryzen 7 5825U|GPU:Integrated AMD Radeon Graphics|RAM: Up to 32GB DDR4 |Storage: 512 GB, 1 TB |Camera: 720p HD camera|Audio:Two built-in speakers|Dimensions 24.13 x 17.95 x 8.54 inches|Weight:19.18 lbs Read More Show Expert Take Show less What is the best all-in-one computer? The Apple iMac 24-inch (M3, 2023) is ZDNET's top choice. But one size doesn't fit all. Check out our comparison chart below to see other worthy AIO PCs on our list.All-in-One ComputerScreen sizePrice (starting at)OSApple iMac 24-inch (M3, 2023)24 inches$1,299MacOSHP EliteOne 870 G927 inches$994WindowsDell Inspiron 24 542024 inches$580WindowsMicrosoft Surface Studio 2+28 inches$4,500WindowsHP Envy 34 All-In-One34 inches$2,340WindowsLenovo Yoga AIO 9i32 inches$1,580WindowsASUS M370027 inches$1,000Windows Show more Which all-in-one computer is right for you? All-in-one computers have a lot of features packed into a single package. But AIOs typically can't get upgraded after purchase, so you need to find the component mix and price that best matches your needs.We chose Apple's 24-inch M3-based iMac as the best AIO computer due to its great design and top-tier performance. But if you prefer a Windows AIO, we found plenty of options. See the comparison chart below to quickly see how the iMac differs from our other AIO picks.Choose this best AIO....If you want...Apple iMac M4The best all-in-one computer. Equipped with a 4.5K Retina display and a colorful design, the iMac M4 is a powerhouse for work, home, school, and more.HP EliteOne 870 G9An all-in-one computer with a ton of configuration options available to you. Buyers can choose from five different processors, add a second SSD, and more.Dell Inspiron 24 5420The best budget all-in-one computer. It offers a 24-inch 1080p display, a 13th-Gen Intel Core i5 processor, and a 512GB SSD for a reasonable price.Microsft Surface Studio 2+The best all-in-one computer for creative purposes. Its Zero Gravity Hinge lets you reposition the computer for more comfortable drawing and its (slightly old) hardware still performs well.HP Envy 34 All-In-OneThe best large-screen all-in-one computer. With a 34-inch display outputting 5K resolution, this AIO can any image look gorgeous, plus it has a solid processor and graphics card pairing.Lenovo Yoga AIO 9iThe best all-in-one computer for entertainment. It has a 32-inch Ultra HD display, a room-filling Harmon Kardon speaker system, and excellent performance. This is a perfect pick for a centerpiece computer.ASUS M3700The best all-in-one computer for your home office. The thin bezels surrounding the 27-inch Full HD display is perfect for viewing content. Plus, the powerful speakers can engulf you in an immersive audio bubble. Show more Factors to consider when choosing an all-in-one computer: Before buying an all-in-one computer, pay attention to the follow factors.Design: Consider the size of an AIO computer, camera and speaker placement, location of ports, and its overall aesthetics. If you're going to spend money on something, it should at least look good.Performance:AIO computers, as a whole, don't have the best performance as they're meant to be easy-to-use, lightweight machines and often lack dedicated graphics processors. Still, keep an eye out for models that balance hosting hardware and affordability.Display: Obviously, it's important to want and have an AIO computer with a great-looking screen since you'll be staring at one for hours. But also consider unique capabilities like touchscreen functionality.Features:Lastly, consider the AIO's full range of features, including its port options (does it have USB 4?) or display capabilities. Show more How did we choose these all-in-one computers? At ZDNET, we occasionally receive AIO computers for reviews. We use the model for a while, running it through benchmark tests and seeing firsthand where it excels and where it stumbles. Information from personal usage is taken into account as well.Once we've compiled a list, we separate the best of the best using the guidelines noted in the previous entry. We also consider the components the AIO has, available upgrades, how well it performs, the display's size and type, and any additional features and ports. Of course, there are certain factors we ignore. No point in taking portability into account when they commonly weigh over 20 pounds. Show more What is the average lifespan for AIO computers? According to Lenovo, the average lifespan of an AIO computer is about five to eight years, but it depends on a variety of factors. It depends on how often you use it, if you take good care of the machine, and if you frequently install updates. It also depends on whether your needs change over time, and you need more powerful components the AIO lacks. Show more What is a disadvantage of an all-in-one computer? Repairability is, by far, the biggest drawback to all-in-one computers. According to ZDNET's computer expert June Wan, "the internal parts are typically weaved into the chassis so that there's little room for modification." This is done to save as much space as possible. Additionally, this leads to a short life span. After about four to eight years, you may begin to experience performance problems and you'll have to bring the entire system to a professional technician to fix it -- if they can.Another drawback is the lack of upgradability. That means you're out of luck if a year after you've bought the machine you want more memory or a larger SSD.Of course, there's also the price point to consider. AIO computers are typically more expensive than traditional desktop computers. Show more Which is better: An all-in-one computer or a traditional desktop PC? It all depends on your priorities. If you value having as few cables as possible, a degree of transportability, and space-saving and stylish design, AIOs are definitely for you. On the other hand, if powerful performance, upgradability, and repairability are what you're after, then a traditional desktop PC will generally offer more for your money. Show more Who would need an all-in-one computer? AIO computers are ideal for users in confined spaces. The compact nature of the machines makes them perfect for receptionist desks, dorms, medical centers, and other settings that need desk space for other things. Show more Are there alternative AIO computers to consider? While the curated AIO computers listed above will most likely suit your needs, there are alternatives with varying prices, sizes, and featuresthat should be considered too. A few of them are listed below. Show more Further ZDNET Tech Coverage Smartphones Smartwatches Tablets Laptops TVs Other Tech Resources ZDNET Recommends

If you're getting an error when logging into or using Meta's apps, you're not alone, as thousands of users have reported service outages in the US.

StarfieldCredit: Bethesda SoftworksLast month, Microsoft announced an interesting roll-out of the Stream Your Own Game initiative, an update to Cloud Gaming that allowed users to play Xbox games they digitally owned over the internet on supported TVs and smart devices like phones, tablets and PCs. No download required.Previously, you could only stream Game Pass Ultimate titles, ones specific to the service, but this new feature added select purchased games which couldnt be accessed via your paid subscription, necessarily. The list started with 50 solid titles and included AAA stuff like Baldurs Gate 3, Hogwarts Legacy, Mortal Kombat 1 and Star Wars Outlaws, as well as a bevy of indie offerings like Animal Well, The Plucky Squire, and the lauded Balatro.Beginning today, Xbox Insiders in the Alpha Skip-Ahead and Alpha rings (secret Microsoft clubs you can only join by way of a glowing green blood pact, Im assuming) can now try out the Stream Your Own Game feature on Xbox consoles proper, and with more games added to the previously available 50, like Dragon Quest III HD-2D Remake.So basically, if youre part of the special preview, you can now stream the (listed) owned games to your Xbox Series X|S or Xbox One. Although, if youre still gaming on a crusty old Xbox One, what in Gods name are you doing, man. Not that it matters in this particular case, as the beauty of streaming transcends mortal hardware. Thats the whole point.MORE FOR YOUBut why should I care, you ask? Well, Xbox is obviously aiming to open up streaming beyond the chosen games exclusive to its Game Pass Ultimate subscription and usher in a convenient future in which every game we buy will be playable via the ominous cloud.Id argue this is eventually where were headed as an industry anywayif not in the next generation of gaming, but in the following, probably. All streaming, all the time, baby. Microsoft is ahead of the curve in this regard, Id say, despite its recent hardware floundering and seeming lack of clear direction. This is an Xbox got people flustered, but maybe that is the clear direction, after all. The direction is: You can access your game library on any device, anywhere. Consoles as we know them will soon be obsolete.I actually reposted something that ex-PlayStation developer David Jaffe said earlier today on X, in which he was responding to someone lamenting Sonys imminent acquisition of FromSoftware:Jaffe has long been a proponent of game streaming technology, and if you watch any of his livestreams, youll see that much of his gameplay is pulled directly from NVIDIAs GeForce Now service. I tend to agree with his futurist take, in that getting rid of traditional hardware altogether seems like a promising road to not only more games but better games, and with access for far more people in varied situations.With any luck, we can finally ditch all the console war nonsense, as in the end, what youre playing the games on doesnt actually matter very much. Its like squabbling about what kind of paper we should print books on. The words are what count. Streaming makes hardware, as we know it, irrelevant. This is good, I think.Theres internet speeds to contend with, of course, but those are catching up every day. And realistically, you dont need the fastest internet to enjoy game streaming. 10Mbps download is the bare minimum for Cloud Gaming on Xbox, with 5Ghz Wi-Fi recommended for wireless connectivity. Wired ethernet and higher download speed is always better, but damn, in the grand scheme of things, 10Mbps is nothing.So if youre an Xbox Insider and have participated in the green blood pact (Im not and havent, sadly), give this new feature a spin and let me know how its working. Itll be nice when Stream Your Own Game rolls out to the masses at some point, because its a harbinger of things to come, better things, Id wager. I recently purchased a PS5 Pro, and man, what a superfluous piece of hardware. Do away with it all, I say.Lets wizard our games over the internet. Actual magic.

How to solve today's Wordle.SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty ImagesLooking for Wednesdays Wordle hints, clues and answer? You can find them here:Yesterday was Wordle Wednesday so naturally I gave you a riddle to solve. Always an extra challenge on Wednesdays and then I share the answer every Thursday. Some of you messaged me with the solution, so bravo to you!The riddle was: I follow the jolly man dressed in red, But I bring fear and dread instead. Before youre naughty, best think twice Ill only coming knocking if you havent been nice. Who am I?The answer is Krampus, the somewhat demonic counterpart to Santa Claus. Krampus originated in Central Europe, a horned Alpine nightmare creature who does the dirty business that Santa simply cant stomach: Punishing naughty children for their misdeeds.With all that in mind, lets solve todays Wordle!How To Solve Todays WordleThe Hint: Challenging, contesting.The Clue: This Wordle is a present participle.Okay, spoilers below!...The Answer:Today's WordleScreenshot: Erik KainPlay Puzzles & Games on ForbesWordle AnalysisEvery day I check Wordle Bot to help analyze my guessing game. You can check your Wordles with Wordle Bot right here. This was not a great Wordle for me today, and Im not sure it was necessarily because it was a tricky word or if my luck had simply run out. Either way, whoof.I began with PLATE, getting zero boxes and leaving 346 possible solutions on the table. CHOIR gave me a yellow I and slashed that to 27. If Id been a little smarter or a little luckier, Id have guessed something better than MINUS for #3 (Wordle Bot says FUNDS would have been more efficient) and then I picked DYING even though my gut was all for VYING. Five tries and I got there at last!Competitive Wordle ScoreI get -1 points for guessing in five and -1 for losing to the Bot, who took four today. -2 for me today. Cest la vie.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 word vying comes from the verb vie, which originates from the Old French envier (meaning "to challenge or provoke"). This, in turn, comes from the Latin invitare, meaning "to invite or challenge." The modern form vie emerged in the 16th century, and vying is simply its present participle form, following English conjugation patterns.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.

By Andrew R. ChowDecember 11, 2024 1:37 PM ESTHeating and lighting buildings requires a vast amount of energy: 18% of all global energy consumption, according to the International Energy Agency. Contributing to the problem is the fact that many buildings HVAC systems are outdated and slow to respond to weather changes, which can lead to severe energy waste.Some scientists and technologists are hoping that AI can solve that problem. At the moment, much attention has been drawn to the energy-intensive nature of AI itself: Microsoft, for instance, acknowledged that its AI development has imperiled their climate goals. But some experts argue that AI can also be part of the solution by helping make large buildings more energy-efficient. One 2024 study estimates that AI could help buildings reduce their energy consumption and carbon emissions by at least 8%. And early efforts to modernize HVAC systems with AI have shown encouraging results.To date, we mostly use AI for our convenience, or for work, says Nan Zhou, a co-author of the study and senior scientist at the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory. But I think AI has so much more potential in making buildings more efficient and low-carbon.AI in Downtown ManhattanOne example of AI in action is 45 Broadway, a 32-story office building in downtown Manhattan built in 1983. For years, the buildings temperature ran on basic thermostats, which could result in inefficiencies or energy waste, says Avi Schron, the executive vice president at Cammebys International, which owns the building. There was no advance thought to it, no logic, no connectivity to what the weather was going to be, Schron says.In 2019, New York City enacted Local Law 97, which set strict mandates for the greenhouse emissions of office buildings. To comply, Schron commissioned an AI system from the startup BrainBox AI, which takes live readings from sensors on buildingsincluding temperature, humidity, sun angle, wind speed, and occupancy patternsand then makes real-time decisions about how those buildings temperature should be modulated.Sam Ramadori, the CEO of BrainBox AI, says that large buildings typically have thousands of pieces of HVAC equipment, all of which have to work in tandem. With his companys technology, he says: I know the future, and so every five minutes, I send back thousands of instructions to every little pump, fan, motor and damper throughout the building to address that future using less energy and making it more comfortable. For instance, the AI system at 45 Broadway begins gradually warming the building if it forecasts a cold front arriving in a couple hours. If perimeter heat sensors notice that the sun has started beaming down on one side of the building, it will close heat valves in those areas.After 11 months of using BrainBox AI, Cammeby has reported that the building reduced its HVAC-related energy consumption by 15.8%, saving over $42,000 and mitigating 37 metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent. Schron says tenants are more comfortable because the HVAC responds proactively to temperature changes, and that installation was simple because it only required software integration. Its found money, and it helps the environment. And the best part is it was not a huge lift to install, Schron says.BrainBoxs autonomous AI system now controls HVACs in 4,000 buildings across the world, from mom-and-pop convenience stores to Dollar Trees to airports. The company also created a generative AI-powered assistant called Aria, which allows building facility managers to control HVACs via text or voice. The company expects Aria to be widely available in early 2025.Scientific StudiesSeveral scientists also see the potential of efforts in this space. At the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory in California, Zhou and her colleagues started studying the potential impacts of AI on building efficiency several years before ChatGPT captured public attention. This year, they published a paper arguing that AI/HVAC integration could lead to a 8 to 19% decrease in both energy consumption and carbon emissionsor an even bigger decrease if paired with aggressive policy measures. AI, the paper argues, might help reduce a buildings carbon footprint at every stage of its life cycle, from design to construction to operation to maintenance. It could predict when HVAC components might fail, potentially reducing downtime and costly repairs.Zhou also argues that AI systems in many buildings could help regional electricity grids become more resilient. Increasingly popular renewable energy sources like wind and solar often produce uneven power supplies, creating peaks and valleys. Thats where these buildings can really help by shifting or shedding energy, or responding to price signals, she says. This would help, for instance, take pressure off the grid during moments of surging demand.Other efforts around the world have also proved encouraging. In Stockholm, one company implemented AI tools into 87 HVAC systems in educational facilities, adjusting temperature and airflow every 15 minutes. These systems led to an annual reduction of 64 tons of carbon dioxide equivalent, a study found, and an 8% decrease in electricity usage. And the University of Marylands Center for Environmental Energy Engineering just published a study arguing that AI models predictive abilities could significantly reduce the power consumption of complex HVAC systems, particularly those with both indoors and outdoor units.As the globe warms, efficient cooling systems will be increasingly important. Arash Zarmehr, a building performance consultant at the engineering firm WSP, says that implementing AI is a necessary move for all designers and engineers. All engineers are aware that human controls on HVAC systems reduce efficiencies, he says. AI can help us move toward the actual decarbonization of buildings.Despite its potential, AIs usage in building efficiency faces challenges, including ensuring safety and tenant data privacy. Then theres the larger question of AIs overall impact on the environment. Some critics accuse the AI industry of touting projects like this one as a way to greenwash its vast energy usage. AI is driving a massive increase in data center electricity demand, which could double from 2022 to 2026, the International Energy Agency predicts. And this week, University of California Riverside and Caltech scientists published a study arguing that the air pollution from AI power plants and backup generators could result in 1,300 premature deaths a year in the U.S. by 2030. If you have family members with asthma or other health conditions, the air pollution from these data centers could be affecting them right now, Shaolei Ren, a co-author of the study, said in a statement. Its a public health issue we need to address urgently.Zhou acknowledges that the energy usage of AI data centers increased drastically after she and her colleagues started writing the paper. To what extent it will offset the emission reduction we came up with in our paper needs future research, she says. But without doing any research, I still think AI has much more benefits for us.