YouTube is taking a tougher stance on clickbait, saying it will remove content with titles or thumbnails that promise viewers something that the video doesnt deliver, as spotted earlier by TechCrunch. This change will slowly roll out in India first, according to YouTubes blog post, but will expand to more countries in the coming months, YouTube spokesperson Jack Malon says in a statement to The Verge.YouTube says the policy will combat egregious clickbait that misleads viewers, with a particular focus on videos related to breaking news or current events. The companys examples of egregious clickbait include a video with the title the president resigned! that doesnt actually address a resignation or a top political news thumbnail attached to a video with no news content.As the policy rolls out in India, YouTube will remove content that violates the rules without giving a strike to creators, at least at first. And as we continue to educate creators, our enforcement efforts will prioritize new video uploads moving forward, YouTube says.

Zombies OriginOne of the most beloved Call of Duty games, and a unique shooter from the X360 era, are seemingly coming to Game PassGame Pass continues to amass a large library of classic Call of Duty games, and it appears the list will be gaining one major addition next year.Image credit: Activision, Treyarch. News by Sherif Saed Contributing Editor Published on Dec. 24, 2024 It looks like one of next years Game Pass updates will be bringing us some classic bangers, particularly those of us who grew up playing shooters on the Xbox 360/PS3 generation. The latest leak is yet another thing that points to Microsofts continued interest in expanding the services line-up with classic, back-catalogue titles from the many studios it owns.This time, Xbox is pulling from the deep Activision Blizzard well.To see this content please enable targeting cookies. According to insider and eXputer writereXtas1s, Call of Duty: World at War, as well as Singularity are both on their way to Game Pass. EXtas1s does have a decent track record when it comes to these sort of leaks.The insider shared a screenshot of World at War on the Microsoft Store, which is how PC games are made available when theyre part of PC Game Pass. It is very unlikely that Activision simply intends to start selling the PC version through the MS Store. The more likely scenario is that its preparing for a Game Pass announcement.Seeing as the line-up between console and PC is near identical, it stands to reason that World at War will also be arriving on Xbox Game Pass at the same time. Interestingly, the listing does not show Achievement support, though that could just be missing at this time.World at War, off course, is well remembered for introducing Zombies mode to Call of Duty. The co-op survival mode started out as something of an Easter Egg intended to be played by a small number of people, but has since grown to become a major part of Treyarchs games. Zombies has also made its way to non-Treyarch-developed Call of Duty games, too, and is considred a core pillar of the series today.The other classic Xbox 360 shooter part of the same leak is Singularity, Raven Softwares 2010 sci-fi shooter that is much more appreciated today that it ever was when it came out. The bad news? The two games apparently wont be joining the line-up until May. Thats close to halfway into 2025. Its likely we may even see some other Call of Duty in Game Pass before then, but thats what we have to go on for now.

Image: Nintendo LifeAs we head into the final week of 2024, it's time to slay the GOTY monster that devours the Decembers of many a gamer.While Nintendo itself has been in wind-down mode, with most internal resources focused on the next console and a software lineup to kickstart it, Switch itself has had a pretty great year. Nintendo enlisted its various partner studios to shoulder the first-party load as Switch went into its eighth year, and third parties and indies have continued to keep things interesting.As ever, there are more great games to play than time to play them, but news that the Switch successor will be backwards compatible gives our backlogs a reprieve for another generation.Subscribe to Nintendo Life on YouTube789kWatch on YouTube Here at Nintendo Life Towers, we'll be sending out our reader-ranked Top 50 Switch GOTYs soon, but to shine a personal light on a range of 2024 gems, today we'll be highlighting the NL team's unranked picks. Our staff members submitted their Top 5 Switch games of the year and they're presented below, in no particular order, spotlighting some NL favourites that may get overshadowed elsewhere by your Zeldas and your Marios (although you'll find those below too, naturally). Bring out your GOTYs!We've got a whopping 27 on the list this year, a testament to the huge variety of experiences on Switch. You'll find a list of honourable mentions at the bottom, too.NL staff key: Alana Hagues (AH), Alex Olney (AO), Felix Sanchez (FS), Gavin Lane (GL), Jim Norman (JN), Liam Doolan (LD), Ollie Reynolds (OR), PJ O'Reilly (PJ)Balatro (Switch eShop)Publisher: PlayStack / Developer: LocalThunkRelease Date: 20th Feb 2024 (USA) / 20th Feb 2024 (UK/EU)You know, I kind of hate Balatro for making me love it so much. I don't have time for these sorts of crazy-intense relationships anymore. It's too much commitment. But here we are, with a crazy amount of hours down the toilet to this amazingly addictive blend of card game (which I'm not even a huge fan of) and video game elements that super-power your deck. It's easy to get into, incredibly moreish don't stress if, like me, you're put off by card rules and it's also got a very unique and weird vibe about it, so once you've clicked with it...well...RIP and all that. PJOne moment I found myself curious about the furore. The next, Im swept up in its hypnotic music, quirky collection of jokers, and picking the Wheel of Fortune every time it pops up. What do you mean "Nope!"? It means "Nope, youre never putting this game down." AHOf all the puzzling, platforming, and sword-swinging Ive done this year, nothing compared to the moment I discovered how to change the order of Jokers. Talk about finally seeing the Matrix. JNPlease note that some external links on this page are affiliate links, which means if you click them and make a purchase we may receive a small percentage of the sale. Please read our FTC Disclosure for more information.Thank Goodness You're Here! (Switch eShop)Publisher: Panic / Developer: Coal SupperRelease Date: 1st Aug 2024 (USA) / 1st Aug 2024 (UK/EU)2024 couldnt give me anything else that made me laugh nearly as much as Thank Goodness Youre Here. Ive never played a game that made my face ache, but I had to take a break halfway through this one after a particularly crude joke with a fish left me with tears in my eyes. Its an absolute gem of British comedy and a definite must-play (just steer clear if your mums within earshot). JNPrince of Persia: The Lost Crown (Switch)Publisher: Ubisoft / Developer: Ubisoft MontpellierRelease Date: 18th Jan 2024 (USA) / 18th Jan 2024 (UK/EU)It's been one of the really big gutters of the year in gaming news, that the team behind this incredible outing for the PoP has been disbanded. Where's the point in it all when you serve up one of the great side-scrolling platformers and maybe just the best Prince of Persia game yet to turn around and be told it didn't do well enough?This is a dazzling game, a smart, exciting and hugely addictive effort that looks, sounds, and plays like an absolute dream. PJVolgarr the Viking II (Switch eShop)Publisher: Digital Eclipse / Developer: Crazy Viking StudiosRelease Date: 6th Aug 2024 (USA) / 6th Aug 2024 (UK/EU)I relish a good retro-inspired challenge, and Volgarr 2 provides it in spades. A minor issue with the UI has since been patched out, and the optional Undead Mode makes this an approachable action-platforming jaunt for newcomers. Sublime. ORThe Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom (Switch)Publisher: Nintendo / Developer: NintendoRelease Date: 26th Sep 2024 (USA) / 26th Sep 2024 (UK/EU)You know, I actually prefer Echoes of Wisdom to Tears of the Kingdom. Is that controversial? I don't think so. This is just more my speed, more my cup of tea, when it comes to Zelda. And as much as I adore the bigger outings, after Breath of the Wild, I'm more than happy to settle into something a little less overwhelming. At least for now. PJZelda fans have waited almost 40 years to play as the princess in her own mainline adventure and now they finally can in Echoes of Wisdom. Thank you, Nintendo. LDBuy The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of WisdomUSAUKEURJPNCANRollerCoaster Tycoon Classic (Switch eShop)Publisher: Atari / Developer: Graphite LabRelease Date: 5th Dec 2024 (USA) / 5th Dec 2024 (UK/EU)The core of this game might be 25 years old, but my goodness has it not aged a day. The complexities, the simplicities, the unbridled creativity available to the player - it's the king of management sims today, just as it was at the turn of the millennium. AOBotany Manor (Switch eShop)Publisher: Whitethorn Games / Developer: Balloon StudiosRelease Date: 9th Apr 2024 (USA) / 9th Apr 2024 (UK/EU)This beautifully written, colourful game reminded me of StreetPass Garden so much that it snuck into my top five. Much like that 3DS novelty, it taught me diddly-squat about actual botany, but exploring the grounds, solving its puzzles, and absorbing the narrative (which follows an intelligent protagonist navigating Victorian BS) was a highlight of the year. GLI played through Botany Manor in one evening and had no regrets when I wrapped it up. Its a delightful little puzzler that mixes just the right amount of head-scratching evidence deduction and chilled exploration, all while drip-feeding a pertinent story. Cheering at the sight of a bound book wasnt on my 2024 bingo card, but here we are. JNDragon Quest III HD-2D Remake (Switch)Publisher: Square Enix / Developer: ArtdinkRelease Date: 14th Nov 2024 (USA) / 14th Nov 2024 (UK/EU)Dragon Quest III HD-2D Remake is another HD-2D masterpiece thats an absolute must-play for any Dragon Quest fan out there. It also comes with all the modern enhancements and QoL improvements to make the adventure more accessible than ever before. Now bring Dragon Quest 1 & 2 HD-2D Remake in 2025! LDFear the Spotlight (Switch eShop)Publisher: Blumhouse Games / Developer: Cozy Game PalsRelease Date: 22nd Oct 2024 (USA) / 22nd Oct 2024 (UK/EU)It takes great skill to maintain tension and dread throughout the duration of an entire game; even if it does only last a few hours. For its debut title, however, Cozy Game Pals effortlessly tells an engaging story packed with scares and intriguing puzzles. Dont wait until Halloween for this; play it now. ORUnicorn Overlord (Switch)Publisher: SEGA / Developer: VanillawareRelease Date: 8th Mar 2024 (USA) / 8th Mar 2024 (UK/EU)Ive said a lot about Unicorn Overlord already, so Ill keep this brief if you love strategy RPGs, youll find an extremely moreish game that rewards tinkering. If you dont you should still try it out; its on the easier side, it encourages experimentation and exploration, and its beautiful. Switch is the perfect place to play it, too. So get on it. AHThis one is right up there with your Octopath Traveler 2s and your Triangle Strategies. You know that rarefied sort of turn-based RPG effort that just nails everything and leaves you begging for more? Well, this is that. Unicorn Overlord blew me away earlier in the year, and I demand to see it further up more GOTY listings. *shakes fist at own reflection* PJCan of Wormholes (Switch eShop)Publisher: Munted Finger / Developer: Munted FingerRelease Date: 29th Aug 2024 (USA) / 29th Aug 2024 (UK/EU)2024 turned out a great year for puzzlers on Switch, but I had expected World of Goo 2 and Lorelei to be bloody good; Can of Wormholes came out of nowhere. The work of the wonderfully named solo dev Munted Finger, it's an elegant, layered puzzler that fully explores every idea it presents. Equal parts mind-bending and silly, it's one of the best things I've played all year. GLSuper Mario Party Jamboree (Switch)Publisher: Nintendo / Developer: Nintendo CubeRelease Date: 17th Oct 2024 (USA) / 17th Oct 2024 (UK/EU)Super Mario Party Jamboree is the best Mario Party yet! A sublime main party mode, with seven great boards, 110+ minigames total, and a bunch of other modes like Koopathlon, and Bowsers Kaboom Squad. Theres just so much to dig into, and the perfect choice for a game if you have some friends or family for a visit. FSBuy Super Mario Party JamboreeUSAUKEURJPNCANStandardJamboree BundleHouse Party BundleCastlevania Dominus Collection (Switch eShop)Publisher: Konami / Developer: KonamiRelease Date: 27th Aug 2024 (USA) / 27th Aug 2024 (UK/EU)I dont usually put compilations on my list, but Castlevania Dominus Collection was a dream. Three of my favourite DS games somehow made the near-perfect jump from dual screens. All three of these games are excellent in their own right and stand up to the best in the genre even today. AHWizardry: Proving Grounds of the Mad Overlord (Switch eShop)Publisher: Digital Eclipse / Developer: Sir-TechRelease Date: 23rd May 2024 (USA) / 23rd May 2024 (UK/EU)The opportunity to fill in gap in your personal gaming history is always welcome, and Wizardry was one such gap for me. Digital Eclipse did its usual excellent work at presenting this classic in the best possible light, and by all accounts they've gone back in since launch and added even more great stuff. I'm looking forward to dipping back into this one over the holidays. GLNeva (Switch eShop)Publisher: Devolver Digital / Developer: Nomada StudioRelease Date: 15th Oct 2024 (USA) / 15th Oct 2024 (UK/EU)Its truly rare to see a game that nails the genuine look thats pitched in the initial concept art stage. However, with Neva, Id hang up nearly any frame of animation and praise it all day. Its truly a sight to behold and a satisfyingly snappy adventure to play, too. ZGSonic X Shadow Generations (Switch)Publisher: SEGA / Developer: Sonic TeamRelease Date: 25th Oct 2024 (USA) / 25th Oct 2024 (UK/EU)When I was playing through Sonic X Shadow Generations, I couldnt stop thinking about the similarities Shadows add-on kind of had to Bowsers Fury (and thats only a good thing). This add-on makes an already exciting package filled with all sorts of Sonic nostalgia even better and does a fantastic job honouring Shadows legacy in his big year. LDPentiment (Switch eShop)Publisher: Xbox Game Studios / Developer: Obsidian EntertainmentRelease Date: 22nd Feb 2024 (USA) / 22nd Feb 2024 (UK/EU)Pentiment is a unique and fascinating game. It takes place in the Middle Ages and the art style, music, and even the fonts are all in line with what you would expect when you hear 'medieval' and 'video game'. This is a great port of a game that's a work of art its very clear that a lot of love and care went into it. FSLlamasoft: The Jeff Minter Story (Switch eShop)Publisher: Digital Eclipse / Developer: Digital EclipseRelease Date: 13th Mar 2024 (USA) / 13th Mar 2024 (UK/EU)Digital Eclipse cracked straight on with another fine entry in its Gold Master Series, giving an excellent overview of an iconic dev. Serving up a spicy collection from Minter's catalogue in a convenient package, with several sides of context to get the most out of them, this is essential for anyone interested in the history of the medium. Best enjoyed with a curry and a good brew. GLCrow Country (Switch eShop)Publisher: SFB Games / Developer: SFB GamesRelease Date: 16th Oct 2024 (USA) / 16th Oct 2024 (UK/EU)A love letter to classic survival horror, Crow Country lets you loose in an abandoned theme park thats filled to the brim with locked doors, horrifying creatures and plenty of puzzles that (almost) always made the necessary backtracking a rewarding endeavour for me. Whats here gameplay-wise isnt necessarily new, but a solid hint system, well-designed maps and little jabs at the genre kept me chugging along while curled up under a blanket with the lights out. ZGPaying homage to classic survival horror is so difficult. You've got to get all of the genre's weird little quirks in there, but do so in a way that doesn't feel immediately outdated and awful. Few manage to nail it, but Crow Country is one of them. If you spent the '90s scrambling for weird little keys and awkwardly shooting zombies, this is for you. ORMarvel vs. Capcom Fighting Collection: Arcade Classics (Switch)Publisher: Capcom / Developer: CapcomRelease Date: 12th Sep 2024 (USA) / 12th Sep 2024 (UK/EU)We've seen some licensing miracles over the years, but Marvel vs. Capcom Fighting Collection might just beat 'em all. Capcom is taking us for a ride here (in a good way) with a decade of fighting game evolution. Honestly, I think a lot of fans would have been more than satisfied with a simple re-release of MvC2: New Age of Heroes on modern platforms, but this collection goes above and beyond. LDLorelei and the Laser Eyes (Switch eShop)Publisher: Annapurna Interactive / Developer: SimogoRelease Date: 16th May 2024 (USA) / 16th May 2024 (UK/EU)A late addition to my top five. Simogo (Year Walk, Sayonara Wild Hearts) takes a fairly standard escape room well, escape mansion formula and laces it with Lynchian horror and French New Wave cinema style to create something truly unique.It's a game you absolutely need a pen and paper to scribble notes on as you play and, despite its quirks (the lack of a 'back' button in menus wound me up no end), its laser focus on a singular vision makes it an experience you'll never forget. GL A chat with SimogoNine Sols (Switch eShop)Publisher: Red Candle Games / Developer: Red Candle GamesRelease Date: 26th Nov 2024 (USA) / 26th Nov 2024 (UK/EU)In a year full of excellent Metroidvanias, its miraculous that Nine Sols manages to stand out. The beautiful art and music are totally up my street, but its the combat that makes Nine Sols truly shine. Brutally difficult particularly that final boss its the most satisfying game Ive played this year. AHPaper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door (Switch)Publisher: Nintendo / Developer: Intelligent SystemsRelease Date: 23rd May 2024 (USA) / 23rd May 2024 (UK/EU)Original copies of Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door have only been getting more expensive, so its nice to see Nintendo finally step in this year and make what is arguably the best Paper Mario entry of the lot readily available once again. Thats why its one of my top Switch picks of 2024. LDAfter hearing all the praise Paper Mario TTYD had gotten over the years, I was sceptical if this could live up the hype, but my god did it do just that! Not just a fantastic game, a phenomenal game. Story, writing, pacing, music, combat - its just all top-notch. FSBuy Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door (Switch)USAUKCANJPNKilling Time: Resurrected (Switch eShop)Publisher: Nightdive Studios / Developer: Nightdive StudiosRelease Date: 17th Oct 2024 (USA) / 17th Oct 2024 (UK/EU)Based on its gameplay alone, Killing Time: Resurrected isnt exactly outstanding. But its utterly bizarre setting, enemies (tickling Murder Clowns, anyone?), and FMV-driven storyline elevate it significantly. In all my years of gaming, I simply havent played anything quite like it. ORPepper Grinder (Switch eShop)Publisher: Devolver Digital / Developer: Ahr EchRelease Date: 28th Mar 2024 (USA) / 28th Mar 2024 (UK/EU)Pepper Grinder is one of the most satisfying games Ive played all year. The movement is so smooth. The level gimmicks are so clever. The visuals are so pretty. Its very much on the short side, but, gosh, what a spicy mouthful it turned out to be! JNShogun Showdown (Switch eShop)Publisher: Goblinz Studio / Developer: RoboatinoRelease Date: 5th Sep 2024 (USA) / 5th Sep 2024 (UK/EU)This was the biggest surprise of 2024 for me. Shogun Showdown came out of absolutely nowhere to eat up a solid month of my time. Deviously simplistic, even one small mistake can end a run. But picking the right tiles and making the right moves to clear out a wave of enemies is like pure poetry. This is a must-play if you like rogue-likes and deckbuilders. AHAnimal Well (Switch eShop)Publisher: Bigmode / Developer: Shared MemoryRelease Date: 9th May 2024 (USA) / 9th May 2024 (UK/EU)I love Animal Well. It's up there with the very best examples of its genre, I reckon. Take a chance on it if it doesn't really seem like your cup of tea and, I promise, you'll be blown away. It's an ingenious puzzle box of a thing, a beautiful-looking adventure that slowly unfurls as you push forward through breezy platforming, best-in-class brainteasers, and some stunning visuals to boot. PJTheres one particular moment in Animal Well that made me feel simultaneously incredibly clever and unbelievably stupid. The answer had literally been right there the whole time. Ive already said too much. But, rest assured, I love it when a game hits that sweet spot. JN "No matter what you put in a game, it will get found"Before we finish, here are just a few Honourable mentions games we've thoroughly enjoyed this year that are bubbling under our personal top fives:And for non-Switch shoutouts, Astro Bot, Silent Hill 2, Final Fantasy VII Rebirth, and Metaphor: ReFantazio kept us occupied on other platforms.Let us know below which of these games you enjoyed most this year, and look out for our upcoming reader-ranked Best Switch Games of 2024 feature where you have your say. (Remember, you can rate your favourite 2024 games and influence that list, even after it goes live.)Even with Nintendo focusing on the new hotness this year, 2025 is shaping up very nicely. Fingers crossed for a belter. The best new Nintendo Switch games coming soonRelated GamesSee AlsoShare:00 Gavin first wrote for Nintendo Life in 2018 before joining the site full-time the following year, rising through the ranks to become Editor. He can currently be found squashed beneath a Switch backlog the size of Normandy. Hold on there, you need to login to post a comment...Related ArticlesToby Fox Shares Another Development Update On Deltarune Chapter 3, 4 & 5"Progress has still been steady"PSA: Switch 2 Is Getting Revealed In The Next 100 DaysSet your Alarmos'Switch 2' Is Projected To Be The "Clear Winner" In The Next Console GenerationWhile either Sony or Microsoft will "struggle mightily"

Since 2018, along with colleagues first at VICE Motherboard, and now at TechCrunch, I have been publishing a list at the end of the year highlighting the best cybersecurity stories reported by other outlets. Cybersecurity, surveillance, and privacy are huge topics that no one single publication can cover effectively on its own. Journalism is by definition competitive, but also a highly collaborative field. Thats why it sometimes makes sense to point our readers to other publications and their work to learn more about these complicated and sprawling beats.Without further ado, here are our favorite cybersecurity stories of this year written by our friends at rival outlets. Lorenzo Franceschi-Bicchierai.AT&T paid a hacker $370,000 to delete a stolen cache of nearly all of the companys phone recordsIn one of the biggest and most brazen mass-hacks in recent history, hackers this year raided hundreds of insecure cloud storage accounts hosted by cloud computing company Snowflake, relied on by some of the worlds largest tech and telecom companies. The hackers then held the huge troves of stolen data for ransom. One victim of the hacks, AT&T, confirmed that it lost the call and text records of nearly all of AT&Ts 110 million customers in the breach, accounting for more than 50 billion call and text records.Days after AT&T went public with news of its breach, independent security reporter Kim Zetter broke the news that AT&T had weeks earlier paid a hacker $370,000 to delete the huge cache of stolen phone records and not publicly release the data. Zetters reporting uncovered a major piece in the puzzle of who was behind the intrusions at the time known only as UNC5537 by Mandiant and who were later identified as Connor Moucka and John Binns and indicted for their role in the mass-thefts from Snowflakes customer accounts. Zack Whittaker.Kashmir Hills latest investigative report in The New York Times revealed that automakers are sharing consumers driving behavior and habits with data brokers and insurance companies, which use the data to hike customer rates and premiums, a dystopian use of a drivers own information against them. For GM vehicle owners, drivers are often not informed that enrolling in its Smart Driver feature would automatically result in vehicles sharing their driving habits with third-parties. The story prompted a congressional inquiry, which revealed that the carmakers sold consumers data in some cases for mere pennies. Zack Whittaker.CIA sent an officer deep undercover to spy on Islamic radicals. The operation cost him everythingThis is just a wild story. If this story was a movie heck, it should be it would still be shocking. But the fact that this actually happened is just incredible. Zach Dorfman pulled off an incredible feat of reporting here. Writing about intelligence operations is not easy; by definition, these are supposed to stay secret forever. And this is not one of those stories that the intelligence community would secretly be happy to see out there. Theres nothing to be proud or happy here. I dont want to spoil this story in any way, you just have to read it. Its that good. Lorenzo Franceschi-Bicchierai.Cryptos legacy is finally clear, per Charlie WarzelThis is not purely a cybersecurity story, but in some ways crypto has always been part of hacking culture. Born as a libertarian pipe dream, its been clear for a few years that Bitcoin and all its crypto offshoots have nothing to do with what Satoshi Nakamoto, the mysterious inventor of the cryptocurrency and blockchain technology, imagined back in 2008 in his founding paper on Bitcoin. Now, crypto has become a tool for the far-right to wield their power, as Charlie Warzel explains very well in this piece. Lorenzo Franceschi-Bicchierai.Hackers scored a record ransom payment of $75 million for Cencoras data breachBloombergs Katrina Manson got the scoop that nobody else could: drug distributor Cencora paid a $75 million ransom to an extortion gang not to release sensitive personal and medical-related data on upwards of around 18 million people following an earlier cyberattack. Cencora was hacked in February, but steadfastly and continually refused to say how many individuals had their information stolen even though public filings showed upwards of 1.4 million affected individuals and rising. TechCrunch had been chasing this story about the alleged ransom payment for some time (and we werent the only ones!) after hearing rumblings that Cencora had paid what is believed to be the biggest ransomware payment to date. Bloombergs Manson got the details on the bitcoin transactions and confirmed the ransom payments. Zack Whittaker.How merciless attacks by ransomware gangs bleed small companies dryIve covered ransomware for years, and while the hackers behind these data-theft attacks are often willing to talk, the victims of these attacks typically arent so keen to open up. Bloombergs Ryan Gallagher achieved the near-impossible by getting the U.K.-based delivery company Knights of Old to reveal all about a ransomware attack that resulted in the company shuttering after 158 years in business. Paul Abbott, Knights co-owner, spoke frankly about the attack, giving readers a glimpse into the devastation caused by the Russia-linked hacking gang. Abbott revealed how and why the company decided not to negotiate, resulting in the publication of more than 10,000 internal documents. This leak, Abbot disclosed, meant the company could not secure a loan or sell the company, forcing it to close its doors for good. Carly Page.404 Media has absolutely been killing it in the year or so after it launched. There have been plenty of great stories but this one stood out for me. Here, Joseph Cox and other journalists received the same dataset, and he smartly decided to focus on one major issue in his story: How cellphone location could help identify people visiting abortion clinics. With Donald Trump returning to the White House, and the Republican Party controlling all branches of government, it is likely that we will see further challenges to abortion rights and access, making this kind of surveillance especially dangerous. Lorenzo Franceschi-Bicchierai.Meet ZachXBT, the masked vigilante tracking down billions in crypto scams and theftsI have been covering crypto hacks and heists on and off for a few years now. It is a fascinating world full of grifters, scammers, hackers and dogged investigators. One of the most intriguing characters is a man who goes by the handle ZachXBT. For years, he has been unraveling some of the most intricate crypto mysteries, hacks, heists, scams and money laundering operations. This year, Andy Greenberg at Wired did a great job profiling ZachXBT. And even if Greenberg couldnt reveal the detectives real-world identity and withheld a lot of identifying information, the story painted a vivid picture of the investigator and his motivations. Lorenzo Franceschi-Bicchierai.The inside story of a firewall vendors five-year war with the Chinese hackers hijacking its devicesWireds Andy Greenberg got the scoop on another major China backed-hacking campaign. The eye-opening report, published in October, reveals how researchers working for Chengdu-based cybersecurity firm at Sichuan Silence and the University of Electronic Science and Technology of China spent years researching vulnerabilities in Sophos firewalls. The vulnerabilities subsequently used by Chinese-government backed hacking groups, such as APT41 and Volt Typhoon, to plant backdoors in Sophos firewalls used by organizations around the world and steal their sensitive data. The five-year-long campaign, as also detailed by Sophos itself, resulted in the compromise of more than 80,000 firewall devices globally including some used in the U.S. government. Following Greenbergs reporting, the U.S. government sanctioned the Chinese cybersecurity company and one of its employees for their role in the widespread hacking campaign. Carly Page.The WSJ revealed a massive China-linked hack targeting U.S. phone and internet giantsThe Salt Typhoon hack of U.S. phone and internet giants will not only go down as one of the biggest cybersecurity stories of 2024, but also as one of the biggest hacks in history. The Wall Street Journal impressively got the scoop on this story, reporting in October that Salt Typhoon, a Chinese government-backed hacking group, had penetrated the networks of a swath of U.S. telecom providers to access information from systems the federal government uses for court-authorized network wiretapping requests. The WSJs excellent reporting kickstarted months of follow-ups and prompted action from the U.S. government, which has since urged Americans to switch to encrypted messaging apps, such as Signal, to minimize the risk of having their communications intercepted. Carly Page.The underground site where neural networks churn out fake IDs capable of enabling fraudKYC, or know your customer checks, are some of the most relied upon techniques that banks and tech companies use to try to confirm it is in fact you they are dealing with. KYC involves looking at your drivers license, passport, or other kind of ID, and checking to the greatest degree possible the authenticity of the document. But while fakes and forgeries are inevitable, generative AI models are rendering these KYC checks entirely useless. 404 Media explored the underground site where neural networks churn out fake IDs at speed, which was a brilliant way to expose how easy it is to generate fake IDs on the fly that are capable of enabling bank fraud and criminal money laundering. The site went offline following 404 Medias reporting. Zack Whittaker.

In May 2023, Ford triggered a transformation when the U.S. automaker locked in a deal to give owners of its EVs access to the Tesla Supercharger network.In a stunning shift, automaker after automaker from GM and Hyundai to Rivian and Mercedes followed suit. By the end of 2023, nearly every major automaker had agreed to adopt Teslas North American Charging Standard (NACS) and promised EV owners that adapters would soon be on their way.Most non-Tesla customers are still waiting. However, recent announcements from automakers may provide an electric lining of optimism.TechCrunch is tracking which brands have access to the Tesla Supercharging Network and will be updating this list.The shift to the Tesla EV charging standardIn November 2022, Tesla shared its EV charging connector design in an effort to encourage network operators and automakers to adopt the technology and help make it the new standard in North America. At the time, every other automaker was using the Combined Charging Standard (CCS) in North America.Mass adoption seemed unlikely at the time even though Teslas charging network was considered far superior thanks to its robust and user-friendly design and the ease of paying for the EV juice.Six months later, Ford became the first to announce it would work with Tesla in a deal that would give its customersaccess to more than 12,000 Superchargers across the U.S. and Canada. But it wasnt just about giving Ford EV owners access to a special adapter. Ford also committed to integrating its future EVs with NACS ports instead of CCS.Rivian, GM, BMW, Honda, Hyundai, Volkswagen, Porsche, Audi, Hyundai, Kia, Lucid, and Stellantis followed.Tesla charging FAQsIn the U.S. today, there are 36,499 NACS ports available publicly (although some of those might be from other EV charging companies that have adapted Teslas standard), compared to around 16,925 CCS ports. Thats despite federal dollars that have gone explicitly to the buildout of CCS chargers.For EV owners stuck with a CCS port, theyll have to hold out for manufacturer-approved adapters. While there are some third-party adapters that claim to be compliant with certain safety and performance standards, like Lectrons Vortex Plug for $199, Teslas website says such adapters are prohibited.A GM spokesperson told TechCrunch its adapters have been specifically designed to protect GM EV batteries while charging and that its vehicle warranty doesnt cover damage to vehicle parts resulting from the use of non-GM approved adapters.In late August, Tesla posted on X that it had ramped up production of adapters. That statement, combined with GMs announcement, could mean that even more non-Tesla EVs will be pulling up to Supercharger stations soon. Theyll all have to download the Tesla app so they can pay for charging.Tesla supercharging access checklistFordCertain Ford customers officially gained access to Tesla Superchargers in February, but ongoing supply constraints have delayed the delivery of free fast-charging adapters for most customers (although Ford says the delays have affected some customers).Current owners of the Mustang Mach-E and Ford F-150 Lightning who have yet to order their adapter can do so through their Ford Pass app. The deadline to apply for a free adapter is September 30.General MotorsAs of September 2024, GM has finally updated the software on its Chevy, Cadillac, and GMC EVs so customers can use Teslas Superchargers. If they want access soon, they need to purchase a GM approved adapter through their app for $225.GM wouldnt say how long shipping would take. A GM spokesperson said the company already has an inventory of the adapters and that its worked with multiple suppliers to manufacture the approved NACS DC fast-charging adapters.From 2025 onward, GMs EVs will be built with the NACS charge port.Hyundai Motor GroupThe South Korean automaker has made several moves to give EV owners access to NACS chargers in the coming year. Kia announced in September its plans to give EV owners access to NACS chargers starting January 15, 2025. They used the announcement as something of a promotion, offering customers who buy a new 2024 EV6 or 2024 or 2025 EV9 SUV from September 4, 2024 a free adapter mailed to them in early 2025, if theres enough supply. Existing Kia EV6, EV9, and Niro EV customers who took delivery before September 4 will have to buy an adapter from a dealer at a later date.But for those who dont want to bother with an adapter, Kia shared some news at the LA Auto Show in November. Both the 2025 EV6 and 2026 EV9 GT will be manufactured with a NACS plug. The EV6 is expected to go on sale in the first half of 2025, and the EV9 GT in the latter half of next year. The 2026 Hyundai Ioniq 9 and the 2026 Genesis Electrified GV70 were also both presented with NACS plugs at the LA Auto Show and promise drivers access to Teslas Supercharging network. But for customers who want a Hyundai EV sooner than that, the automaker said in December that it would send customers who bought or leased an EV before January 31 a free NACS adapter. NissanBeginning in late 2024, Nissan plans to give Ariya drivers access to Teslas network through a NACS adapter. The automaker also said that in 2025, it will start offering EVs for the U.S. and Canadian markets with a NACS port. RivianEV startup Rivian officially got access to 15,000 Superchargers across North America on March 18, 2024. At the time, Rivian promised to begin sending adapters to customers starting in April. A Rivian spokesperson told TechCrunch the automaker began delivery this spring and continues to ship adapters as quickly as it receives them.As of September 2024, Rivian said that customers who order a new vehicle will have an adapter shipped to them automatically when they take delivery. Customers will receive the adapter within seven to 10 business days. The EV-maker also promised that those who already own a Rivian and are still awaiting an adapter will receive one at no cost by the end of January 2025. Volvo (and Polestar)The two Swedish car brands owned by Chinas Geely began offering their EV customers access to Teslas Supercharger network at the end of October. Volvo said it will include a free NACS adapter for any customer who buys a 2025 EX90, EX40, or EC40. Existing Volvo EV owners will have to shell out $230 for an adapter, which they can buy from a dealership or service center. Polestar is also selling the adapter through its service centers. Both brands gave a mid-November date when theyll start shipping adapters. Volvo and Polestar are also updating their Android-powered infotainment software so drivers can search for Tesla Superchargers in the vehicles navigation. TechCrunch will update the list as automakers gain official access.

New data from market intelligence firm CONTEXT offers a positive outlook for the additive manufacturing market in 2025.In the latter half of next year, CONTEXT anticipates a recovery in shipments of Industrial 3D printers costing over $100,000. The firm expects shipments of these systems to increase by 15% in 2025. Growth will primarily be driven by demand for metal 3D printers, particularly laser powder bed fusion (LPBF) systems, led by growing adoption in China. This would reportedly bring sales in the industrial market back to levels last seen in 2021.Reflecting on 2024, the market intelligence experts identified challenges experienced throughout the industry. The first half of 2024 saw shipments of Midrange ($20,000$100,000) and Professional ($2,500$20,000) decline by 10% and 28%, respectively, while Industrial 3D printer sales dropped -15%. Current estimates indicate that sales of all 3D printers costing over $2,500 will be down by at least single-digit percentages compared to 2023.However, CONTEXT acknowledged the continued success of low-cost 3D printer manufacturers. The Entry-level segment is the only one expected to show growth when full-year 2024 figures are available. Shipments of consumer-centric 3D printers costing under $2500 soared in the first half of 2024, increasing 41% on a trailing twelve-month basis.Chris Connery, VP of Global Analysis at CONTEXT, is optimistic for the year ahead. As global inflation continues to cool hand-in-hand with declining interest rates, other segments are also poised to see growth in 2025, he explained. Entry-level, Professional, Mid-range, and Industrial 3D printers are all expected to experience increased shipments in 2025.The CONTEXT logo. Image via CONTEXT.CONTEXT shares positive 3D printing outlook for 2025In 2024, the global adoption of high-cost, professional-grade 3D printers was stunted by high interest rates and restrained capital expenditure. Overall, industrial shipments fell despite increasing demand from China. Demand for metal 3D printers was stronger than for Industrial polymer systems.Looking ahead, Connery has noted cautious optimism from system manufacturers which report strong interest and engagement from buyers looking to purchase 3D printers once financing improves. Interest rates are beginning to fall, and the declining cost of capital has the high-end of the additive manufacturing industry poised for a rebound, he added.CONTEXT identified the introduction of a new wild card to contend with in the form of potential tariffs anticipated in the USs first year of the new Trump Administration. Despite this, if interest rates continue to experience downward adjustments and pricing remains stable, the firm expects 3D printer sales to recover by the second half of 2025.In 2025, the company is forecasting 14% growth in Midrange 3D printer shipment growth, with Professional shipments set to rise by 8% compared to 2024. However, Professional 3D printers continue to struggle, as demand shifts to entry-level systems like those offered by Shenzhen-based Bambu Lab. While shipments of low-cost 3D printers cooled off at the end of 2024, CONTEXT expects another year of double-digit percentage growth in 2025 irrespective of changes in interest rates.Despite industry challenges, COTEXT added that additive manufacturing is witnessing increased adoption for high-volume production applications, particularly in the aerospace, automotive, and healthcare sectors. As such, the five-year projection for Industrial 3D printer shipments is positive, with an expected 19% compound annual growth rate.The Bambu Lab X1-Carbon 3D printer. Image via Bambu Lab.Industry optimism for the future of 3D printingCOTEXT is not the only market intelligence firm forecasting a positive year ahead for the 3D printing industry. The Additive Manufacturing Working Group of the German Mechanical Engineering Industry Association (VDMA) published its fall 2024 3D printing survey earlier this year.Respondents shared optimism for the future of 3D printing, despite an extremely difficult market environment in 2024. 65% of those surveyed anticipate domestic market growth over the next two years, with 58% anticipating an increase in exports. 68% of the companies believe new applications will have the largest positive impact on industry investment.Elsewhere, Wohlers Associates, the Colorado-based additive manufacturing consultancy firm operating under ASTM International, anticipated growth to mass production in its Wohlers Report 2024. The company anticipates a shift to high-volume production of end-use parts.The report expects 3D printer and post-processing technology improvements to scale additive manufacturing from thousands of parts to hundreds of thousands, with million-part production runs anticipated for small components. Increases in 3D printer speeds are also expected to lower the cost per part, increasing adoption for new industries and applications.Who won the 2024 3D Printing Industry Awards?All the news from Formnext 2024.Subscribe to the 3D Printing Industry newsletter to keep up with the latest 3D printing news.You can also follow us on X, like our Facebook page, and subscribe to the 3D Printing Industry Youtube channel to access more exclusive content.Featured image shows the CONTEXT logo. Image via CONTEXT.

Olympic Velodrome and Swimming Pool Aerial View | Georges Fessy The Olympic Velodrome and Swimming Pool in Berlin, designed by Dominique Perrault, highlights the transformative power of architecture in shaping urban identity. Conceived amidst Germanys reunification, the project responded to Berlins aspiration to host the 2000 Olympic Games and reestablish itself as a unified capital. Combining political ambition and urban redevelopment, it brought together the disparate elements of East and West Berlin. With a budget of 180 million, a 10-hectare site, and a built area of 53,780 m, Perraults design prioritized subtlety and harmony, embedding the structures within a verdant green space to seamlessly integrate architecture with nature.Olympic Velodrome and Swimming Pool Technical InformationArchitects1-16: Dominique Perrault Architecte, APP & Rolf ReichertLocation: Landsberger Allee, Berlin, GermanyArea: 53,780m2 | 578,880 Sq. Ft.Project Year: 1993 1999Photographs: Georges FessyThe buildings which will house the velodrome and the Olympic Swimming Pool vanish from sight. Dominique Perrault ArchitectsOlympic Velodrome and Swimming Pool PhotographsNight View | Georges FessyAerial View | Georges FessyFacade Detail | Georges FessyVelodrome Interior | Georges FessySwimming Pool Interior | Georges FessySwimming Pool Interior | Georges FessyRoof Details | Georges FessyDesign Philosophy: Architecture Beneath the SurfaceDominique Perraults innovative design sought to make the massive velodrome and swimming pool vanish within the urban fabric. The concept was simple yet profound: prioritize the ecological and social fabric over the visibility of built forms. The velodromes round structure and the pools rectangular geometry were carefully embedded within the landscape, creating an unobtrusive architectural presence.At the heart of the project lies the orchard, a lush expanse of over 400 apple trees. Perrault envisioned this orchard as a functional and symbolic element, evoking a sense of history and permanence. Mature apple trees, sourced from Normandy, were transplanted to establish a timeless and organic setting. The shimmering metal surfaces of the velodrome and pool, barely protruding from the ground, were designed to reflect light like tranquil water bodies, enhancing their integration with the surrounding greenery.The blending of architecture and nature also responded to Berlins unique urban character, where suburban landscapes coexist with a dense metropolitan core. By creating a green public space rather than a typical park, Perraults design redefined the role of large-scale urban projects in connecting disparate neighborhoods and fostering community engagement.Architectural and Technical AchievementsThe technical details of the Olympic Velodrome and Swimming Pool exemplify meticulous planning and multidisciplinary collaboration. Key aspects of their design and construction include:Materiality and Form: The structures wire gauze faades create a visual effect that mimics water surfaces, making the buildings appear more like natural features than human-made volumes. This minimalist expression aligns with the overarching theme of blending architecture into the landscape.Multifunctional Design: The velodrome, spanning 29,800 m, accommodates various sports and events, including cycling, athletics, tennis, equestrian activities, and concerts, with a capacity for 11,420 spectators. The swimming pool complex, covering 23,980 m, features two Olympic-standard pools, diving platforms, training pools, and facilities for children and people with disabilities, with seating for 4,200 spectators.Multidisciplinary Collaboration: The project brought together leading experts, including Ove Arup & Partners for structural engineering, Jean-Paul Lamoureux for acoustics and lighting, and landscaping by Landschaft Planen & Bauen. This synergy ensured the seamless execution of a highly complex and ambitious design.Sustainability and Landscape Integration: The decision to transplant mature apple trees underscores the projects commitment to sustainability and ecological preservation. This thoughtful approach extended to the choice of materials and construction methods, ensuring the projects harmony with its environment.The Olympic Velodrome and Swimming Pool LegacyThe Olympic Velodrome and Swimming Pool exemplify how architecture can transcend its utilitarian purpose to create spaces that inspire and unite. Perraults decision to prioritize landscape and ecological integration over architectural prominence reflects a progressive approach that resonates with contemporary concerns about sustainability and urban connectivity.From an architectural perspective, the projects success lies in its ability to balance form, function, and symbolism. The understated design avoids imposing volumes, fostering a sense of openness and continuity. The projects urban impact has been profound, reconnecting fragmented neighborhoods and setting a benchmark for large-scale developments that prioritize public spaces. Its recognition with the Deutscher Architekturpreis (2nd Prize) in 1999 highlights its architectural innovation and cultural significance.Olympic Velodrome and Swimming Pool PlansFloor Plan | DPASection | DPAOlympic Velodrome and Swimming Pool Image GalleryAbout Dominique PerraultDominique Perrault is a renowned French architect who is celebrated for his innovative and context-sensitive designs that merge architecture with landscape. Born in 1953, Perrault gained international acclaim with projects like the French National Library in Paris and the Olympic Velodrome and Swimming Pool in Berlin. His work is characterized by a minimalist aesthetic, a deep respect for ecological integration, and a focus on creating public spaces that enhance urban connectivity. Perraults disappearing architecturephilosophyseeks to blend structures seamlessly with their surroundings, redefining the relationship between the built and natural environments. Notes & Additional CreditsClient: City of Berlin, represented by OSB Sportstttenbauten GmbHArchitect: Dominique Perrault Architecte (Paris); APP (Architects Perrault & Partners), Berlin; Rolf Reichert (Munich)Structural and Fluids Engineers: Ove Arup & Partners Acoustics and Lighting: Jean-Paul LamoureuxLandscaping: Landschaft Planen & BauenArchitectural Engineering: Perrault ProjetsProject Management: PROMOS projektmanagement; Olympiasportdttten Construction Physics: IBUS Institut fr Bau, Umwelt und Solartechnik GmbH, IPB Frauenhofer Institut fr BauphysikSports Facilities Consultant: Weidleplan Consulting GmbH, Architekt KerschkampAgricultural Engineer: ric JacobsenBuilt Area: 53,780 m (Velodrome: 29,800 m, Swimming Pool: 23,980 m)Built Volume: 809,816 m (Velodrome: 452,701 m, Swimming Pool: 357,115 m)Site Area: 10 hectaresConstruction Period: Velodrome: June 1993 November 1997 (4 years, 3 months); Swimming Pool: June 1995 November 1999 (4 years, 5 months)Budget: 180 million (1997 value, excluding taxes)Program: Multi-use velodrome (11,420 spectators, 5,583 seats), two Olympic pools, Olympic diving platform, training pools, facilities for children and people with disabilities (4,200 spectators, 2,136 seats)

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Listening to music as you run or pump out reps may make your workout feel like it's going by faster and help you reach your fitness goals, but that's only if your headphones are up to the sweaty challenge. It can feel nearly impossible to go on a run or finish a grueling set without your favorite songs blasting in your ears. As an avid runner, I need my earbuds to be charged and ready to play my favorite songs before I hit the pavement -- and I need them to be durable enough to last through a rainy or sweaty exercise session.ZDNET and our team of exercise and headphone enthusiasts have done most of the figurative and literal heavy lifting by testing out our favorite earbuds and headphones at the gym, on runs, and while we stay active. We've logged miles and sweat with these headsets and considered options for all budgets. Needless to say, we've got some strong opinions on what makes a good workout headphone.What are the best workout headphones right now?With a compact but secure design, water resistance, and sound performance in mind, we compiled a list of the best headphones for working out to compare and choose which fits your workout style -- and ears -- the best. The best workout headphones right now are the Nothing Ear (open) for its lightweight and comfortable build that you can wear anywhere, clear and loud sound (despite its aware form factor), good battery life, compatibility with different exercises, and overall value. Sort by All The best workout headphones of 2024 Show less View now at Nothing As far as value goes, no brand is beating Nothing and its impressive lineup of earbuds that deliver amazing sound, long battery life, and prices that are nearly unbelievable when we think of brand quality. I can see this most clearly with the new Nothing Ear (open) earbuds that are as comfortable as can be and deliver supreme sound (even though it's an open earbud, a type of earbud that historically tends to sacrifice volume and audio strength for situational awareness), an eight-hour battery life in the earbud and a 30-hour battery life in the case, and a form factor that you can truly wear anywhere.I took the Nothing Ear (open) out on a run, wore them in the office and on commutes to and from, on calls, and on strolls, and was pleased with its unobtrusive design, which made the earbuds feel nearly invisible, the audio strength, which kept things loud and the bass booming while also keeping me aware of the noises around me, Nothing's thoughtful touch controls, and its substantial battery.These are the earbuds you'd want to exercise in, whether you're working out at a busy gym, going on a silent stroll, or running on a car-packed street, because of how they deliver a lightweight, comfortable build and audio that is loud yet aware.At its highest level, the earbuds get crazy loud (and experience some sound leakage, I'll be honest). But while you're listening with these, you probably won't need to raise the volume up all the way because the sound is substantially loud, clear, crisp, and bass-forward at mid-level volume. Keep in mind that these earbuds don't have noise cancellation because they are open earbuds that prioritize awareness, so you'll want to consult the other noise-canceling picks on this list if silence is what you're looking for during your workouts.Lots of the choices on this list also have the aforementioned qualities, but you'd be hard-pressed to find a pair that retails for $150. These do.Nothing Ear (open) specs: Weight: 4.8g |Battery life:8 hours in earbud, 30 in case |Bluetooth version:5.3 |Waterproof:IP54 |Noise cancellation:None Pros Best value Super comfortable Amazing, loud-yet-aware sound You can wear these anywhere Cons Multipoint Bluetooth didn't work perfectly Sound leakage at highest volume As far as value goes, no brand is beating Nothing and its impressive lineup of earbuds that deliver amazing sound, long battery life, and prices that are nearly unbelievable when we think of brand quality. I can see this most clearly with the new Nothing Ear (open) earbuds that are as comfortable as can be and deliver supreme sound (even though it's an open earbud, a type of earbud that historically tends to sacrifice volume and audio strength for situational awareness), an eight-hour battery life in the earbud and a 30-hour battery life in the case, and a form factor that you can truly wear anywhere.I took the Nothing Ear (open) out on a run, wore them in the office and on commutes to and from, on calls, and on strolls, and was pleased with its unobtrusive design, which made the earbuds feel nearly invisible, the audio strength, which kept things loud and the bass booming while also keeping me aware of the noises around me, Nothing's thoughtful touch controls, and its substantial battery.These are the earbuds you'd want to exercise in, whether you're working out at a busy gym, going on a silent stroll, or running on a car-packed street, because of how they deliver a lightweight, comfortable build and audio that is loud yet aware.At its highest level, the earbuds get crazy loud (and experience some sound leakage, I'll be honest). But while you're listening with these, you probably won't need to raise the volume up all the way because the sound is substantially loud, clear, crisp, and bass-forward at mid-level volume. Keep in mind that these earbuds don't have noise cancellation because they are open earbuds that prioritize awareness, so you'll want to consult the other noise-canceling picks on this list if silence is what you're looking for during your workouts.Lots of the choices on this list also have the aforementioned qualities, but you'd be hard-pressed to find a pair that retails for $150. These do.Nothing Ear (open) specs: Weight: 4.8g |Battery life:8 hours in earbud, 30 in case |Bluetooth version:5.3 |Waterproof:IP54 |Noise cancellation:None Read More Show Expert Take Show less Show less View now at Best Buy Finding the right earbuds to work out in is challenging, especially if you sweat a lot. Bone conduction headphonesmight be the perfect solution. By wrapping around your head and sitting near instead of entirely in your ear, the H2O Audio Tri 2 bone conduction headphones transmit sound through the bone architecture, allowing your ears to breathe. This is great for anybody who exercises for a long time, like people training for a half marathon or cyclists going on hours-long bike rides.The headphones deliver a 9-hour battery life and a waterproof rating of IPX8. You can swim with these on for up to 12 feet. But let's say you aren't a swimmer: the waterproof and dustproof rating is strong enough to withstand a sweat-drenched workout at the gym or on the bike path.One downside to most bone conduction headphones is the fact that you're sacrificing audio quality and volume for environmental awareness. ZDNET's Jack Wallen, who reviewed the headphones, says this isn't the case with the Tri 2. "Up until the H2O Tri 2, I just assumed bone-conducting headphones would never be able to deliver anything close to punchy bass. I'm not saying you're going to feel the kick drum in your chest, but you'll certainly hear it with more clarity than your other bone-conducting headphones," he writes. Also:One of the best bone conduction headphones I've listened to is also waterproofThere's also a memory mode feature that becomes essential while you're swimming laps in the pool or opting for a phone-free exercise session. You can load songs onto the memory of the bone conduction headphones to play them in your ears while you're in the water or far from your phone. It's pretty handy.Bone conduction headphones aren't for everyone, but if you love exercising outdoors, rain or shine, want environmental awareness, decent sound for your music and podcasts, and long battery life, the H2O Audio Tri 2 headphones are the platonic ideal of a workout headphone."Not only do they allow you to enjoy your music without having to carry your phone with you (which could be disastrous in a pool), but they produce some of the best sound I've heard from bone-conducting headphones," Wallen writes.H2O Audio Tri 2 bone conduction tech specs: Type:Open ear |Wired/wireless:Wireless| Waterproof rating:IPX8, waterproof up to 12 feet |Weight:.08 pounds|Battery life:9 hours Pros Waterproof and dustproof Can swim or exercise above water with these on No in-ear pressure build up Memory mode Cons Touch controls are finicky Finding the right earbuds to work out in is challenging, especially if you sweat a lot. Bone conduction headphonesmight be the perfect solution. By wrapping around your head and sitting near instead of entirely in your ear, the H2O Audio Tri 2 bone conduction headphones transmit sound through the bone architecture, allowing your ears to breathe. This is great for anybody who exercises for a long time, like people training for a half marathon or cyclists going on hours-long bike rides.The headphones deliver a 9-hour battery life and a waterproof rating of IPX8. You can swim with these on for up to 12 feet. But let's say you aren't a swimmer: the waterproof and dustproof rating is strong enough to withstand a sweat-drenched workout at the gym or on the bike path.One downside to most bone conduction headphones is the fact that you're sacrificing audio quality and volume for environmental awareness. ZDNET's Jack Wallen, who reviewed the headphones, says this isn't the case with the Tri 2. "Up until the H2O Tri 2, I just assumed bone-conducting headphones would never be able to deliver anything close to punchy bass. I'm not saying you're going to feel the kick drum in your chest, but you'll certainly hear it with more clarity than your other bone-conducting headphones," he writes. Also:One of the best bone conduction headphones I've listened to is also waterproofThere's also a memory mode feature that becomes essential while you're swimming laps in the pool or opting for a phone-free exercise session. You can load songs onto the memory of the bone conduction headphones to play them in your ears while you're in the water or far from your phone. It's pretty handy.Bone conduction headphones aren't for everyone, but if you love exercising outdoors, rain or shine, want environmental awareness, decent sound for your music and podcasts, and long battery life, the H2O Audio Tri 2 headphones are the platonic ideal of a workout headphone."Not only do they allow you to enjoy your music without having to carry your phone with you (which could be disastrous in a pool), but they produce some of the best sound I've heard from bone-conducting headphones," Wallen writes.H2O Audio Tri 2 bone conduction tech specs: Type:Open ear |Wired/wireless:Wireless| Waterproof rating:IPX8, waterproof up to 12 feet |Weight:.08 pounds|Battery life:9 hours Read More Show Expert Take Show less Show less View now at Nothing I loved these earbuds so much while I was training for my half marathon that out of all the many earbuds I tested for my job, these were the only ones I used the day of my race.The Nothing Ear (a) earbuds are the best workout earbuds for most people for these three reasons. First is the price: They're only $100. Second is sound: They sound incredible, with the perfect amount of noise cancellation that takes you away from distracting environmental noise without forcing complete unawareness. Third is touch controls: The Nothing Ear (a)'s touch controls mimic those of the AirPods Pro 2. They use pinch controls on the bottom stem of the earbud instead of touch controls near the top.Review: Nothing Ear (a)As I write in my spotlight, I always run with earbuds in. When my ears get too sweaty and whatever pair of earbuds I wear begins to slip out, I accidentally touch and activate the pause button when attempting to press the bud back into my ears. Having pinch controls on the stem of the earbud negates this annoying issue.The three reasons above justify the Nothing Ear (a) as one of the best workout earbuds. But one extra feature that sweetens the deal is how cool these look in your ears. The transparent design is unique and creative, and the earbuds come in this sunshine yellow color (although you can also pick them up in white or black if you're looking for a less flashy earbud).The ear tips are super tactile and stick to your ears as you run and move, making them great for working out. They come with IP55 waterproofing, a solid and long battery life, and will work for Android and iOS users. All in all, these are a joy to use and exercise with, and it's refreshing to see technology packed with every feature you want, designed thoughtfully, and priced competitively. Apple should be scared.Nothing Ear (a) specs:Weight: 4.8g |Battery life:9.5 hours in buds and 42.5 in case with ANC off |Bluetooth version: 5.3 |Waterproof:IP54 |Noise cancellation:Active noise cancellation Pros Long battery life Pinch controls are intuitive for exercise Sounds great Cons Not the strongest ANC out of all the earbud options I loved these earbuds so much while I was training for my half marathon that out of all the many earbuds I tested for my job, these were the only ones I used the day of my race.The Nothing Ear (a) earbuds are the best workout earbuds for most people for these three reasons. First is the price: They're only $100. Second is sound: They sound incredible, with the perfect amount of noise cancellation that takes you away from distracting environmental noise without forcing complete unawareness. Third is touch controls: The Nothing Ear (a)'s touch controls mimic those of the AirPods Pro 2. They use pinch controls on the bottom stem of the earbud instead of touch controls near the top.Review: Nothing Ear (a)As I write in my spotlight, I always run with earbuds in. When my ears get too sweaty and whatever pair of earbuds I wear begins to slip out, I accidentally touch and activate the pause button when attempting to press the bud back into my ears. Having pinch controls on the stem of the earbud negates this annoying issue.The three reasons above justify the Nothing Ear (a) as one of the best workout earbuds. But one extra feature that sweetens the deal is how cool these look in your ears. The transparent design is unique and creative, and the earbuds come in this sunshine yellow color (although you can also pick them up in white or black if you're looking for a less flashy earbud).The ear tips are super tactile and stick to your ears as you run and move, making them great for working out. They come with IP55 waterproofing, a solid and long battery life, and will work for Android and iOS users. All in all, these are a joy to use and exercise with, and it's refreshing to see technology packed with every feature you want, designed thoughtfully, and priced competitively. Apple should be scared.Nothing Ear (a) specs:Weight: 4.8g |Battery life:9.5 hours in buds and 42.5 in case with ANC off |Bluetooth version: 5.3 |Waterproof:IP54 |Noise cancellation:Active noise cancellation Read More Show Expert Take Show less Show less These open earbuds can be considered a dupe for the $300 Bose Ultra Open earbuds. While its look is slightly less refined than the Ultra Opens, they share many of the same specs. That includes a 7-hour battery life in the buds, an IPX4 waterproof and dustproof rating, and Bluetooth 5.3. I'd recommend the Bose Ultra Open to anybody with $300 to spend on a pair of earbuds, but if that's not you and you'd rather spend a healthy $40 instead, the JLab Flex is for you.They clip onto the rim of your ear and stay put no matter what, which makes them ideal for exercise -- whether you're running in a park, biking on a trail, or weightlifting in one place.They produce sound that is good and loud enough for an outdoor run or a workout in a busy gym. Plus, with an IPX4 rating, you can run in light rain or sweat in them without water damage.The touch controls are pretty finicky; I paused my music using the touch feature, only to have it continue to play a few minutes later. For this reason, I'd recommend using your phone to control the music over the earbud's touch controls.They aren't perfect, but at $40, you're getting what you pay for. I'd recommend purchasing these specifically for running and exercise and using another pair for listening to music at the office or at home. And if you like the idea of a clip-on, open earbud, but wouldn't mind spending more money on them, I'd definitely recommend the Bose Ultra Open.JLab Flex specs:Weight:.13 pounds |Battery life:7 hours in buds, 21 hours in case |Bluetooth version:5.3 |Waterproof:IPX4|Noise cancellation:N/A Pros Allows for environmental awareness Impressive battery life Great alternative to bone-conduction headphones Cons Finicky touch controls Just ok sound These open earbuds can be considered a dupe for the $300 Bose Ultra Open earbuds. While its look is slightly less refined than the Ultra Opens, they share many of the same specs. That includes a 7-hour battery life in the buds, an IPX4 waterproof and dustproof rating, and Bluetooth 5.3. I'd recommend the Bose Ultra Open to anybody with $300 to spend on a pair of earbuds, but if that's not you and you'd rather spend a healthy $40 instead, the JLab Flex is for you.They clip onto the rim of your ear and stay put no matter what, which makes them ideal for exercise -- whether you're running in a park, biking on a trail, or weightlifting in one place.They produce sound that is good and loud enough for an outdoor run or a workout in a busy gym. Plus, with an IPX4 rating, you can run in light rain or sweat in them without water damage.The touch controls are pretty finicky; I paused my music using the touch feature, only to have it continue to play a few minutes later. For this reason, I'd recommend using your phone to control the music over the earbud's touch controls.They aren't perfect, but at $40, you're getting what you pay for. I'd recommend purchasing these specifically for running and exercise and using another pair for listening to music at the office or at home. And if you like the idea of a clip-on, open earbud, but wouldn't mind spending more money on them, I'd definitely recommend the Bose Ultra Open.JLab Flex specs:Weight:.13 pounds |Battery life:7 hours in buds, 21 hours in case |Bluetooth version:5.3 |Waterproof:IPX4|Noise cancellation:N/A Read More Show Expert Take Show less Show less Headphones tend to be bulky while you exercise, but these fan-favorites from Sony pack a comfortable punch; Sony's WH-1000XM5 delivers superior sound, a comfortable form factor, and a lightweight design, all features that gave them ZDNET's title as one of theover-ear headphones. These are also Virginia Wooten's, CEO and founder of Dawn Fitness, favorite headphones for whenever she hits the gym or goes for runs outside. "[They have the] best sound quality I could ask for, and I love how they look and feel as an over-the-ear headphone," said Wooten.Powered by the QN1 Sony HD Noise Cancelling Processor, the Sony WH-1000XM5 Noise Cancelation is not only top-notch but customizable thanks to the Auto NC Optimizer, which automatically adjusts to the noise in your workout environment. Plus, the headphones pack in up to thirty hours of continuous music playback, so you can focus on supercharging your workouts instead of your headphones.Review:Sony WH-1000XM5Sony WH-1000XM5 specs:Weight:8.8 ounces|Battery life:30 hours|Bluetooth version:5.2 |Waterproof:No|Noise cancellation:Sony HD Noise Cancelling Processor QN1 Pros Comfortable fit Long battery life Fan-favorite headphone Cons Expensive Some users prefer the XM4 fit to the XM5 Headphones tend to be bulky while you exercise, but these fan-favorites from Sony pack a comfortable punch; Sony's WH-1000XM5 delivers superior sound, a comfortable form factor, and a lightweight design, all features that gave them ZDNET's title as one of theover-ear headphones. These are also Virginia Wooten's, CEO and founder of Dawn Fitness, favorite headphones for whenever she hits the gym or goes for runs outside. "[They have the] best sound quality I could ask for, and I love how they look and feel as an over-the-ear headphone," said Wooten.Powered by the QN1 Sony HD Noise Cancelling Processor, the Sony WH-1000XM5 Noise Cancelation is not only top-notch but customizable thanks to the Auto NC Optimizer, which automatically adjusts to the noise in your workout environment. Plus, the headphones pack in up to thirty hours of continuous music playback, so you can focus on supercharging your workouts instead of your headphones.Review:Sony WH-1000XM5Sony WH-1000XM5 specs:Weight:8.8 ounces|Battery life:30 hours|Bluetooth version:5.2 |Waterproof:No|Noise cancellation:Sony HD Noise Cancelling Processor QN1 Read More Show Expert Take Show less Show less View now at Amazon I can understand why people wouldn't want to spend an arm and a leg on headphones that they sweat in every day. That's where a good pair of affordable earbuds, like the JLab JBuds ANC 3, come in. These are $60 with competitive ANC, a marathon battery life in the earbuds plus 33 hours in the case, multipoint Bluetooth, and a tight and comfortable fit in my ears. I used these while training for my half marathon and loved how long I could go without charging them, especially as I was pounding pavement day in and day out.Review: JLab JBuds ANC 3JLab JBuds ANC 3tech specs: Connectivity:Bluetooth Multipoint|Battery life:9 hours in the earbuds and 33+ hours in the case|Noise cancellation:Yes|Waterproof?IP55 Pros Long battery life Stays in your ears Affordable Cons Feels a little cheap I can understand why people wouldn't want to spend an arm and a leg on headphones that they sweat in every day. That's where a good pair of affordable earbuds, like the JLab JBuds ANC 3, come in. These are $60 with competitive ANC, a marathon battery life in the earbuds plus 33 hours in the case, multipoint Bluetooth, and a tight and comfortable fit in my ears. I used these while training for my half marathon and loved how long I could go without charging them, especially as I was pounding pavement day in and day out.Review: JLab JBuds ANC 3JLab JBuds ANC 3tech specs: Connectivity:Bluetooth Multipoint|Battery life:9 hours in the earbuds and 33+ hours in the case|Noise cancellation:Yes|Waterproof?IP55 Read More Show Expert Take Show less What are the best workout headphones? The best workout headphones depend on your preference, like whether you want a bone conduction headphone, an over-ear headphone, an earbud, or something in between.HeadphonesFitPriceBatteryWaterproof ratingNothing Ear (open)Open-ear$150Up to 8 hours in buds, 30 hours in caseIP54H2O Audio Tri 2Bone conduction$180Up to 9 hoursIPX8Nothing Ear (a)In-ear$100Up to 43 hoursIP54JLab FlexOpen-ear$40Up to 7 hours in buds, 21 hours in caseIPX4Sony WH-1000XM5Over-ear$400Up to 30 hoursN/AJLab Jbuds ANC 3In-ear$60Up to 33 hoursIP55 Show more Which headphones for working out are right for you? Much like fitness, earbuds don't have a "one size fits all" approach -- it ultimately comes down to preference. And while the specs speak for themselves, there are specific scenarios in which it's better to invest in one headphone pair over the other. Here's a chart to help you compare.Choose these workout headphones...If you...Nothing Ear (open)Want a substantially loud earbud that is uber-comfortable for wearing on the go, in the office, and during long-haul workouts. These don't have noise cancellation, though.H2O Audio Tri 2 bone conduction headphonesWant bone conduction, waterproof headphones that deliver a 9-hour battery life. Run, swim, lift, and cycle with these on, and maintain environmental awareness through the headphones' light and open design. Nothing Ear (a)Want the best workout earbuds for most people. At $100, they promise substantial noise cancellation, in-ear detection, a long battery life, a comfortable fit that sticks in your ears, thoughtful pinch controls that are way more convenient for exercise, and great sound.JLab Flex Open earbudsWant to keep ambient awareness of your surroundings while running or working out, or looking for an alternative to bone-conducting headphones more suitable for movement. These are dupes for the Bose Ultra Open (that retail for $300), and they cost $40.Sony WH-1000XM5Are looking for a lightweight over-ear option great for both strength training and running. These are great for those who like to customize their ANC listening experience.JLab Jbuds ANC 3Want a great budget earbud with impressive ANC, great sound, and a comfortable fit, all for $60. These earbuds don't have ear stems. Show more Factors to consider when choosing headphones for working out These headphones were chosen based on an array of factors, including:Fit: From multiple ear tips to extra-soft materials, there are several ways to make your workout and running headphones more comfortable while you exercise.Water resistance: The waterproof rating for your workout headphones is important in case you find yourself caught in a sudden downpour or in the middle of an especially vigorous workout. Some charging cases even include waterproofing.Sound quality: After all, what good are your headphones if you cannot hear your audio? Some headphones feature better technology than others to offer improved sound and call quality.Special features: Spatial awareness can be improved with bone conduction, while active noise cancellation can help drown out the outside world so you can get lost in your workout. Whatever you prefer, consider which audio features are available for your next workout and running headphones.Price: The price for your headphones can vary significantly, with our top picks running from $50 to $250. Your budget may determine which workout and running headphones are available to you. Show more How we test headphones for working out If I didn't exercise in these headphones myself, one of my trusted colleagues has. Here at ZDNET, we only recommend products we have used ourselves, and use these products every day to understand just how long the battery life actually lasts, how the noise cancellation sounds in a loud environment, and how the microphones sound on calls and Zooms.Also: How we test headphones Show more FAQs on headphones for working out Is it better to work out with headphones or earbuds? Ultimately, it's not "better" or "worse" to work out with over-ear headphones versus in-ear buds, it simply comes down to preference. As a profuse sweater, I prefer in-ear buds to avoid over-ear padding from getting soaked or potent. However, many strength trainers prefer over-ear models for stability, while sweaty runners opt for a bone conducting option. Show more Are bone conduction headphones good for working out? Given their open-air, over-ear design, many runners like bone conduction headphones to hear their surroundings. There are also waterproof options that even let swimmers enjoy music during their laps. Slipping over your head and sitting outside rather than in-ear, people who sweat heavily during a workout also prefer bone conduction headphones for workouts. However, bone conduction headphones can lead to sound leakage issues and the over-head design isn't optimal if your exercise requires lying on your back. Show more Are AirPods good for working out? As an avid walker and pilates lover, I love my second-gen AirPods for low-impact exercise, especially since they came out with the extra small ear tip. In the past, however, I've had issues with my AirPods staying in my ears -- which is a shame given their otherwise excellent performance. If you don't want to buy a whole new pair of AirPods for the tips alone, purchasing separate ear hooksis an effective, low-cost solution to keeping AirPods in place. Show more Other headphones we've testedThere are many other types of headphones available for running and workouts. Here are three additional headphones to consider before buying your next pair of earbuds. ZDNETs Headphones Guide Headphones & Earbuds Roundups Headphones & Earbuds Reviewed & Compared Headphones & Earbuds Explained ZDNET Recommends