Elon Musk had an eventful 2024, what with his hard push into right-wing politics and leveraging his X social media platform and considerable influence to help Donald Trump win the presidential election.Putting politics aside for a moment, its worth focusing on another Musk pastime: making promises for Tesla.The Tesla CEOs promises and repeated missed deadlines have become a primary thread in the Tesla storyline. And theyve always had an eye-popping quality that captured the imagination of investors and helped drive up the value of Tesla stock, giving the company a valuation of $1.3 trillion. There was his claim in 2015 that Tesla vehicles would be self-driving in two years, that cross-country driverless road-trips would be enabled by the end of 2017, and that Tesla owners would be able to earn money via a massive driverless ride-hailing network in 2020.And while Tesla has cemented its place in history books thanks to building and selling millions of electric vehicles, none of the above promises (nor many others) have come to pass.But that hasnt stopped Musk from making more promises in 2024. Heres an accounting of those promises and when he expects them to become reality.The $25,000 EVIn 2024 alone, Musk pledged to unveil a $25,000 EV, then scrapped it in April to prioritize a robotaxi prototype a decision that led to mass layoffs as Tesla pursued its next phase of growth.Musk has flip-flopped on whether the affordable EV would ever come to market. But during Teslas third-quarter earnings call, Musk said the idea of building a $25,000 car with a steering wheel and pedals is pointless and silly. He said the only car hed sell at that price point would be the Cybercab.During the call, an analyst asked if Tesla would make a lower-cost EV thats not the Cybercab, and Musk replied that all of the companys cars moving forward would be autonomous. He also said that of the 7 million vehicles Tesla has built to date, the vast majority are capable of autonomy, and that Tesla is currently making on the order of 35,000 autonomous vehicles a week. Musk is clearly using a loose definition of autonomy here, because Tesla still does not produce vehicles that are safe to use without a human behind the wheel.(Flashback: Musk originally promised in 2016, in a since-deleted post on Teslas website, that All Tesla Cars Being Produced Now Have Full Self-Driving Hardware, and that only a software update would be needed to turn regular old Teslas into self-driving cars. That didnt happen, and Tesla has had to upgrade cars with older hardware.)Its also worth noting that during that earnings call, Musk said that he expects vehicle growth to reach 20% to 30% in 2025 due to lower cost vehicles and the advent of autonomy.Start production on the Cybercab by 2025 or 2026Tesla unveiled 20 Cybercab prototypes at a flashy Hollywood event in October, and Musk took the opportunity to share some plans for the vehicles, as well as Teslas so-called Full Self-Driving (FSD) software. FSD is Teslas advanced driver assistance system that can perform many automated driving tasks, but still requires a human to remain attentive behind the wheel and take over if needed.Musk told customers they would be able to one day buy a robotaxi a two-door, two-seat vehicle with no steering wheel or pedals for less than $30,000. He also said that the average operating cost of the Cybercab will reduce over time to only $0.20 per mile. And he said Tesla would start production on the purpose-built AVs in 2025 or 2026.(Flashback: Musk said in 2022 that Tesla would mass-produce robotaxis by 2024. Before that, in 2019, he said that Tesla would have a million robotaxis on roads by 2020. Musk has promised that Tesla would solve full self-driving next year since at least 2016.)A few weeks later, during Teslas third-quarter earnings call, Musk said Tesla would reach volume production in 26, and that the company was eventually aiming for at least 2 million units a year of Cybercab.Current federal regulations that require vehicles to be built with certain safety standards, like manual human controls, could be roadblocks for Tesla to mass produce its Cybercabs. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration recently proposed new rules that would fast-track exemptions for such vehicles, but they would require companies to share more data with the agency, like crash reporting. Today, automakers are required to report crashes when ADAS or autonomous driving tech is engaged. Musk has railed against the rule before, and President-elect Donald Trumps transition team is reportedly exploring scrapping it.Robovan in developmentDuring Teslas robotaxi reveal, the company also showed investors a Robovan prototype. At the time Musk didnt share any concrete plans for the vehicle, but in November he posted on X that the Robovan is in development, along with some other things.(Flashback: In 2016, Musk said Tesla would start building a minibus using the Model X chassis in two to three years.)Unsupervised FSD and autonomous ride-hail in 2025At the event, Musk also promised that Model 3 and Model Y owners would be able to use an unsupervised version of FSD in California and Texas in 2025.It wasnt, and still isnt, clear what Musk meant by unsupervised FSD. Today, Teslas FSD is still not fully autonomous, and to dispel any confusion, Tesla this year began referring to the software as supervised FSD. Removing the supervision could mean that Tesla plans to remove the driver, or it could mean that Tesla plans to offer a Level 3 autonomous system that allows drivers to go hands-off, eyes-off for a portion of their ride.During Teslas third-quarter earnings call, Musk took the promise of unsupervised FSD a step further. He said he hopes to launch a service that will let people hail self-driving Teslas in California and Texas in 2025. He also claimed Tesla had begun testing the service in the Bay Area with employees.(Context: There are several tiers of permits required to test and deploy autonomous vehicles in California. Tesla has held a permit to test AVs with a safety driver in the front seat since 2015, but the Department of Motor Vehicles told TechCrunch in October that Tesla last reported using that permit in 2019.)Its not clear if Tesla plans to launch this ride-hail service with its robotaxis or with existing Tesla Model 3 and Model Y owners. Teslas first-quarter earnings presentation included a mock-up of a future Tesla ride-hail app, and the company has for years teased the idea of a ride-hailing network using Teslas that had been updated to drive fully autonomously. The idea is similar to Uber, only Tesla owners would add their properly equipped self-driving vehicles to the automakers ride-hailing app to make extra cash when the cars are not in use. Tesla would take 25% to 30% of the revenue.Finally, during Teslas first-quarter earnings call, Musk said Tesla was in talks with a major automaker to license FSD, but so far has not announced any such deals.Over a thousand Optimus robots working at Tesla in 2025Image Credits:TeslaMusk has made some out there promises about Optimus, Teslas humanoid robot. During Teslas annual shareholder meeting, Musk promised that Tesla would move into limited production of the Optimus next year, with over 1,000, or a few thousand, Optimus robots working at Tesla in 2025. He also said he expects Optimus to be on sale by 2026. In a post on X, the billionaire executive added that he expects to have more Optimus bots available for use by other companies in 2026.He did not specify if the bots would be working fully autonomously, or if they would be remotely controlled by humans, as they were during Teslas robotaxi reveal event in October.(Context: While humanoid robots are improving to the point of being able to autonomously complete specific tasks, many experts say generalized robotics is still years away due to a lack of training data.)Aside from manufacturing promises, Musk also predicted that Optimus could one day lift Teslas market cap to $25 trillion. Thats roughly seven times the current market caps of Apple and Nvidia. At the end of December, Teslas market cap was around $1.42 trillion, which is almost a 160% increase from the $550 billion market cap before Trump won the presidential election.Have we missed anything? Feel free to reach out to rebecca.bellan@techcrunch.com.

On December 27, a Waymo robotaxi and a Serve Robotics sidewalk delivery robot collided at a Los Angeles intersection, according to a video thats circulating on social media. The footage shows a Serve bot crossing a street in West Hollywood at night and trying to get onto the sidewalk. It reached the curb, backed up a little to correct itself and started moving toward the ramp. Thats when a Waymo making a right turn hit the little bot.The person who posted the video said the Serve bot had run a red light before the collision, though thats not clear from the footage.One Reddit user commented on the video saying: Waymo computers: Doesnt appear to be a human or animal. No life form detected BAM!And while that comment was likely made in jest, the sentiment is not exactly wrong.Screenshot taken from video posted on Reddit.Image Credits:Reddit userWhen TechCrunch asked Waymo whether the robotaxi saw the bot, a spokesperson said that the Waymo Driver system correctly observed that the delivery robot was an inanimate object. The Driver is designed to be a cautious defensive driver that prioritizes the safest driving path with the information it has at any given moment, and its ability to classify and distinguish different types of road users and objects informs its behavior around them. For example, the Driver is programmed to be more cautious around children and pedestrians.This isnt to say that Waymos Driver will just bulldoze anything inanimate; in this case, the delivery robot had paused at the curb before driving into the vehicle turning lane just as the Waymo robotaxi entered the intersection. At that point, the Waymo Driver applied hard braking before making contact with the delivery robot at 4 miles per hour, according to the Waymo spokesperson.Neither AV was damaged, and the two remained locked for a minute before going their separate ways. But as more autonomous vehicles hit public roads, theres a question to be asked about what happens when they collide? How do the companies decide which robot, and therefore, which company, is liable in the case of damage?Based on previous information Waymo has given TechCrunch, when a collision occurs, the Waymo Driver notifies the companys Fleet Response and Rider Support teams. The Fleet Response team reviews the scene remotely and dispatches a road-side assistance representative if needed. The Rider Support team checks the status of the riders and, if appropriate, contacts first responders.In this specific instance, there was no passenger inside the robotaxi. Its not clear if the Fleet Response team was alerted to this collision, or whether either the Waymo robotaxi or the Serve bot required humans to assist in getting out of the jam remotely.A Serve spokesperson told TechCrunch that this is the first instance of one of its bots colliding with a robotaxi, and confirmed that the bot was under remote supervisor control at the time of the incident since that is still part of Serves playbook for intersection crossings.TechCrunch was unable to get more concrete answers from Waymo or Serve regarding specifics around liability in the case of future incidents that might result in more damage. Spokespeople from both companies have confirmed that they have been in touch to work to avoid similar issues in the future.

May 2024 highlighted significant progress across the additive manufacturing sector, particularly in defense applications and advanced research.The U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) focused on modernizing supply chains and enhancing weapon development through partnerships with AML3D, 3YOURMIND, and Aerojet Rocketdyne. Battlefield-ready 3D printing systems saw increased adoption, while research breakthroughs in materials like tungsten and the GRX-810 superalloy expanded possibilities in clean energy and aerospace applications.From humanitarian initiatives to developments in consumer goods and high-performance printers, this months news underscored the diverse applications of 3D printing technologies.Read on for the highlights in May 2024 from AML3D, NASA, University of Limerick, Hand-in-Hand, Rapid Liquid Print, and more.U.S. DoDs increased AM adoption strengthens defense capabilitiesMay 2024 brought notable developments in the U.S. DoDs use of 3D printing to address supply chain challenges and advance weapon development.Australian 3D printer manufacturer AML3D secured an AUD$0.70 million (US$0.46 million) order from Laser Welding Solutions (LWS), a key supplier to the U.S. Navy. Under this agreement, two ARCEMY Small Edition 2600 3D printers will be leased for 12 months, with an option to purchase them outright, addressing U.S. DoDs supply chain challenges via U.S. Navys submarines.Along with technical support and software licensing, this initiative aimed to enhance LWSs ability to qualify Nickel Aluminum Bronze (NAB) components for submarine applications, building on an earlier ARCEMY 2600 system acquired in September 2023. Plans to airfreight the 3D printers from Adelaide to Houston were set in motion, with operations expected to begin within 8 to 10 weeks.ARCEMY 2600 Small Edition 3D printer. Photo via AML3D.Efforts to modernize logistics extended to the U.S. Army, where 3YOURMIND partnered with the Combat Capabilities Development Command (DEVCOM) Ground Vehicle Systems Center (GVSC) to evaluate up to 10,000 parts of the M113 armored personnel carrier for additive manufacturing.Parts were analyzed for feasibility, cost, and lead time to identify those most suitable for production. Working with Phillips Corp Federal Division, this move seeks to streamline logistics, support U.S. DoDs goals to reshore supply chains, and advance distributed manufacturing practices.This project also builds on a $100 million GVSCs alliance with Wichita State Universitys National Institute for Aviation Research (NIAR). Signed last year, the entities developed a digital twin of the M113 and explored advanced manufacturing techniques, including laser powder bed fusion and directed energy deposition.Meanwhile, L3Harris Technologies subsidiary Aerojet Rocketdyne secured a $22 million contract from the U.S. DoD to develop a 3D printed hypersonic propulsion system under the Growing Additive Manufacturing Maturity for Airbreathing Hypersonics (GAMMA-H) challenge. Over a 36-month timeline, the company will focus on simplifying scramjet production workflows to address supply chain fragmentation, improve efficiency, and reduce costs.By advancing manufacturing methods for hypersonic weapon components, the initiative supports the Pentagons broader goals of modernizing defense manufacturing and expanding hypersonic capabilities.3D printing deployed on the front lines3D printing news from May 2024 also highlighted on-site manufacturing and repair of military equipment enabled by 3D printing.Australian metal 3D printer manufacturer SPEE3D launched the Expeditionary Manufacturing Unit (EMU), a mobile 3D printing system combining its XSPEE3D printer and SPEE3Dcell post-processing unit. Designed for defense applications, the EMU allows military forces to produce large metal parts on-site in remote environments, addressing supply chain challenges.Developed through trials with the U.S., Australian, and British militaries, this system uses Cold Spray Additive Manufacturing (CSAM) to rapidly fabricate durable components without lasers or inert gases. Post-processing capabilities include heat treatment, machining, and testing, ensuring parts are ready for immediate use. According to the company, EMUs portability and speed make it valuable for defense and industries like mining, oil, and gas.The British Army announced that it had deployed 3D printers in the field during NATOs Steadfast Defender exercise. Under Project Brokkr, the Army used the XSPEE3D cold spray metal 3D printer and a polymer system to produce vehicle parts such as jerry can caps and communication brackets, addressing supply chain delays and improving repair efficiency.Located near the frontlines in Germany and later showcased in Belgium, these portable systems enabled fast on-site production, with the XSPEE3D capable of creating metal parts in under an hour. This deployment reduced costs, minimized environmental impact, and boosted military readiness. Future plans include building digital design catalogs for fleets like BOXER and AJAX to expand on-demand 3D printing capabilities.The XSPEED in transit. Photo via SPEE3D.Advances in 3D printing researchIn May 2024, research breakthroughs took center stage including a world-first development.Researchers at Seoul National University developed the blended FDM (b-FDM) method, a two-step process enabling precise control over gradient material properties in 3D printing. Using standard FDM printers and filaments, the technique combines materials into a single digital material (DM) filament, producing parts with diverse properties like strength, conductivity, and color.Demonstrations with an Original Prusa i3 MK3S included stretchable conductive parts, foldable origami grippers with integrated sensors, and objects with up to 36 color gradients. The low-cost, accessible method improves material bonding and functionality, opening new possibilities for wearable electronics, engineering devices, and functional gradient materials.Meanwhile, in a world-first, researchers from the U.S. Department of Energys (DoE) Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) successfully 3D printed defect-free tungsten parts with complex geometries using electron-beam additive manufacturing.Produced at ORNLs Manufacturing Demonstration Facility, these tungsten components, capable of withstanding temperatures above 180 million degrees Fahrenheit (100MC), are crucial for clean energy technologies like fusion energy. Tungstens extreme temperature resistance makes it ideal for reactors, offering significant potential for sustainable, carbon-free energy.ORNLs electron-beam 3D printing process addresses tungstens brittleness by depositing layers in a high-vacuum environment, reducing contamination and stress. This innovation supports the Department of Energys renewable energy mission, building on earlier advancements in nuclear energy systems.In another significant study, University of Limerick researchers studied how compression rates affect the performance of metal 3D printed honeycomb lattices. Using material extrusion (ME) and laser powder bed fusion (LPBF), they found that compression speed influenced energy absorption, yield, and stress, but not elastic modulus.Smaller cell sizes in ME-printed honeycombs showed higher strength but more variability than laser powder bed fusion (LPBF) parts. Deformation patterns varied with compression speed, while thermal softening was also observed. The study validated findings with empirical models and introduced a predictive model to optimize honeycomb structures for aerospace and biomedical applications.NASAs GRX-810 superalloy enters commercial marketsMay 2024 also saw aerospace material innovation as NASA licensed its GRX-810 superalloy, a breakthrough 3D printable material, to five American companies including Carpenter Technology Corporation, Elementum 3D, Linde Advanced Material Technologies, Inc., and Powder Alloy Corporation.This news follows, US-based 3D printer OEM 3D Systems successfully verifying the properties of GRX-810 in April 2023, testing its high-temperature mechanical performance using the Direct Metal Printing (DMP) platform across various equipment and processing parameters.Developed at Glenn Research Center, GRX-810 is twice as strong, a thousand times more durable, and withstands temperatures over 2,000F, making it ideal for high-temperature aerospace and aviation applications. As part of NASAs Technology Transfer Program, the licensing agreements enable commercialization of the material, expected to reduce costs, improve sustainability, and support energy-efficient engine development while contributing to the US economy.Hand-in-Hand transforms lives with 3D printed prosthesesHelping children and underserved individuals, Florida-based Slice Engineering highlighted the humanitarian impact of 3D printing by recognizing Hand-in-Hand, a non-profit founded in Egypt by childhood cancer survivor Mohamed Hatab. This organization creates free 3D printed prostheses, primarily for children, to improve the quality of life of those with limb differences.Support from Slice Engineering has boosted Hand-in-Hands productivity fivefold, enabling the efficient production of prosthetic limbs. Slice Engineerings CEO Dan Barousse commended the initiative as a meaningful example of the industrys ability to drive positive change.Those interested in supporting Hand-in-Hands mission can contribute through a fundraising link.3D printed golf irons redefine consumer goods manufacturingAdditive manufacturing gained traction in the consumer goods sector, aligning with trends in 3D Printing Industry on its expanding use in product production.One standout example of this trend was the debut of Cobra Golfs metal 3D printed golf irons. In an interview, Cobra Golf executives Mike Yagley and Ryan Roach discussed the new LIMIT3D offering, the worlds first commercially available 3D printed steel golf irons.Manufactured using direct metal laser sintering (DMLS) and designed with nTop software, the clubs feature internal lattice structures that reduce weight by 100 grams, redistribute 33% of the clubheads mass, and lower the center of gravity (CG), improving ball speed, accuracy, and forgiveness.The 3D printing process halved development time, eliminated tooling needs for design adjustments, and enabled rapid iterations, significantly reducing costs. Released on June 7, 2024, with only 500 sets priced at $3,000, these clubs combine the look and feel of professional models with enhanced accessibility.While traditional methods remain dominant, Yagley and Roach see 3D printing playing an increasingly important role in creating innovative, high-performance golf equipment.Cobra Golfs LIMIT3D iron. Image via Cobra Golf.Eplus3D fuels metal 3D printer laser wars with EP-M2050In May 2024, Chinese 3D printer manufacturer Eplus3D unveiled its large-format EP-M2050 Laser Beam Powder Bed Fusion (PBF-LB) 3D printer featuring 36 lasers as standard and upgrade options to 49 or 64 lasers.This introduction reflects the ongoing laser wars in metal additive manufacturing, where industry leaders are shifting their focus toward multi-laser systems for faster, large-scale production instead of emphasizing unit shipments.With a build volume of 2050 x 2050 x 1100 mm (extendable to 2000 mm), this printer handles materials like titanium and stainless steel at speeds up to 1080 cm/h. It delivers over 99.9% part density, meeting aerospace standards, while its open architecture enables customizable parameters for optimal production.Rapid Liquid Print secures funding to expand elastomer 3D printingShifting the focus to elastomer 3D printing, Rapid Liquid Print (RLP) made headlines in May with its funding success. The spin-off from Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) secured $7 million in Series A funding led by HZG Group, with additional backing from BMW i Ventures and MassMutual. With the latest funding, RLP plans to scale production, grow its workforce, and explore new business opportunities.Known for its gel-dispensing technology, RLP enables the swift production of soft, recyclable components across industries such as medical, automotive, and consumer goods. By utilizing reusable gel as a suspension, the process eliminates support structures, minimizes post-processing, and facilitates large-scale printing in minutes. Investors have highlighted the technologys transformative potential in elastomer 3D printing and its diverse applications.3D Printing News Highlights from 2024: Innovations, Trends, and AnalysisWhat 3D printing trends do the industry leaders anticipate this year?What does the Future of 3D printing hold for the next 10 years?To stay up to date with the latest 3D printing news, dont forget to subscribe to the 3D Printing Industry newsletter or follow us on Twitter, or like our page on Facebook.While youre here, why not subscribe to our Youtube channel? Featuring discussion, debriefs, video shorts, and webinar replays.Featured image shows The XSPEED in transit. Photo via SPEE3D.

The site of an old garage in Staten Island once used by the New York City Department of Sanitation (DSNY) will soon be transformed into an affordable housing community. The 232-unit complex, Hillside Grove, is being designed by Purpose by Design Architects at 539 Jersey Street on the North Shore. Today, 539 Jersey Shore is a squat brick building, where trucks often come and go. Its long been considered an eyesore and a nuisance by the community, designers said. The structure will be razed and replaced in the months ahead. (And the santitation services will be relocated to a garage in Fresh Kills.)Hillside Grove will be made up of 4- and 5-story buildings. It will be predicated on a few fundamental concepts: health and wellness, aging in place, universal and inclusive design, active design, zero waste, and trauma-informed design.The existing garage on the North Shore has long been considered an eyesore by the community. (Courtesy NYC Housing Preservation & Development)Of the 232 units, 90 will be dedicated to seniors who make up to 60 percent of the Area Median Income (AMI), and 105 will be for earners of all ages making 80 percent AMI. The rest of the flats will be inside a homeownership co-op building.At Hillside Grove, tucked beneath the residences, there will be a grocery store on site, community facility space, below grade parking, and over 46,000 square feet of outdoor open space. Volunteers of America Greater New York, Spatial Equity, and Nehemiah HDFC are all development partners on the project, together with New York City Department of Housing Preservation & Development (HPD). This project will set the bar for the type of innovative and sustainable projects that could be realized on former city agency owned land, Leila Bozorg, New York City Executive Director for Housing, said in a statement.The proposals undulating shapes and crannies take cues from the natural terrain of Staten Island, Purpose by Design Architects said, but also the areas historic homes and tree canopies. The nod to the context is invoked by the faux pitched roofs that break up the massing. Punched windows further break up the planes that line the streetscape, overlooking tree-lined streets.The facades take cues from local, vernacular residential architecture. (Purpose by Design Architects)On the ground level, public spaces will run along the perimeter. There will be a new public plaza on the corner of Jersey Street and Victory Boulevard designed with bus riders in mind seeking the grocery store. There will also be a public plaza on Brook Street and widened sidewalks up-and-down Jersey Street, replete with shaded seating. To achieve Passive House certification, Hillside Grove will be fitted with a geothermal energy system, mid-door gardens, and solar panels on the roof. The site plan leverages storm water management and heat mitigation strategies. There will also be green roofs, retention ponds, dry wells, porous pavement, and rainwater capture and storage. All in all, more than 100 trees will be planted.The site was approved for rezoning in 2019, as part of the 2019 Bay Street Rezoning plan. An RFP issued by HPD went out that year.The project is part of Mayor Eric Adamss 24 in 24 plan, which sought to deliver 24 affordable housing projects on publicly owned land by the end of 2024.

Rockets soar and sparks fly in Andrea Loves animated tribute to a favorite New Years Eve tradition. In case you cant make it to a live event this year, sit back and celebrate the launch into 2025 with the artists mesmerizing pyrotechnic show.Love (previously) is known for her tender stop-motion portrayals of daily routines in her Cooking with Wool series, along with myriad felted scenarios for clients like Loewe, Michaels, Herms, and Netflix. Learn more about her work on her website, and explore all of her videos on YouTube.Do stories and artists like this matter to you? Become a Colossal Member today and support independent arts publishing for as little as $7 per month. The article Ring in the New Year with Andrea Loves Stop-Motion Felted Wool Pyrotechnics appeared first on Colossal.

Adam Breeden/ZDNETWhat's the deal?The Sony Bravia X90L is on sale at both Amazon and Best Buywith the 55-inch model starting at $998, or 17% off. The steepest discount is on the 98-inch model, which has had its price tag slashed by 25%, going from $7,999 to $5,998. For most people, I'd recommend the 65-inch Sony X90L -- on sale for $1,098.Why this deal is ZDNET recommendedWhat the Sony Bravia X90L lacks in eye-popping specs, it more than makes up for in real-world picture performance and Sony upscaling technology, which delivers great video for movies, sports, cable, and streaming.Regarding the features you'll love for daily use, the X90L has an excellent remote that feels premium, is just the right size, includes backlighting, and has a good balance of just the right number of buttons. The X90L also has Google TV built-in.The closest rivals to the Bravia X90L are the TCL QM8 and the Hisense U8 Series, both of which cost a little less than the Sony and have impressive specs.The Sony Bravia X90L is one of our picks for the best Sony TVs you can buy, and for good reason. Its color accuracy, precision brightness, 120Hz smooth motion, and 4K image processing make it one of our most recommended TVs you can buy. I also consider it one of the most underrated TVs available. And with the 2025 TVs soon hitting the market, you can save on just about every size of this excellent 2023 model, from $100 off the 65-inch to $2,000 off the 98-inch.I've seen all of the best 2024 TVs from Sony, Samsung LG, TCL, and Hisense, both atCES 2024and at several events since then. When I recently had to replace a 7-year-old 55-inch TCL TV that died, I chose a 65-inch Sony X90L because I think it has the best picture for the money right now, and it comes with a couple of extra advantages as well.Also:LG G3 vs. Samsung S95C: Which flagship OLED TV should you buy?While the Sony Bravia XR X90L doesn't blow you away on the spec sheet -- it's an LED TV with a full-array backlight -- the real-world performance and usability make it one of the best buys on the market, based on ZDNET's testing. This Sony TV is technically in the same category as its very popular 2023 rivals, theTCL QM8 and Hisense U8K.However, while those are Mini LED TVs and look like they should be better TVs on paper, the Sony X90L has better color accuracy, plenty of brightness, and a nicer remote than either the TCL or Hisense TVs (although the 2024 models are starting to emulate the Sony remote). All three TVs are around $1,000 -- $900 to $1,300 street price -- for a 65-inch, and the Sony is the best among the three.Since Sony has had a long partnership with Google, the X90L also has an excellent implementation of Google TV. This makes the X90L's software interface much friendlier to use than Samsung's Tizen and LG's webOS, which can be overly complicated and frustrating to navigate.With the X90L, you also get Sony's excellent picture processing to upscale content to 4K, which is especially helpful if you're watching older content or YouTube videos, and it's stronger than anything offered by Hisense and TCL. And if you're looking for a TV to watch movies, the X90L nearly rivals expensive OLED and high-end QLED TVs that cost almost twice as much. If you're upgrading from a TV that is at least 4-5 years old, you will be blown away by the picture quality of X90L -- and it will require a lot less tuning out-of-the-box than other TVs.Also:I tested Amazon's Mini LED Fire TV, and it competes with more expensive Samsung and LG modelsSony has the most advanced picture processing of all five major TV brands. That means that it doesn't over-saturate and over-brighten the image the way Samsung, LG, TCL, and Hisense models sometimes do. Again, that means Sony TVs often have a better picture than higher-spec'd rivals from budget TV makers (Hisense and TCL) and can often compete with more expensive models from premium vendors (Samsung and LG).For gamers, this TV has a dedicated game mode, HDMI 2.1, VRR, and Auto HDR Tone Mapping when connected to the Sony PS5. It also has a game menu so that you can fine-tune the settings to your preferences. Adam Breeden/ZDNETThe Sony X90L isn't as bright as its Mini LED rivals from TCL and Hisense -- or even its 2024 successor, the Sony Bravia 7 -- but it still takes advantage of Sony's advanced backlight system to brighten specific parts of the image. It also does an excellent job of revealing the details in the shadows of dark movies and shows. I'm using the X90L in a bright room and have never had an instance where I wished the picture was brighter.Of course, Sony's products often carry a 10% to 20% price premium because of the Sony brand name, so it's important to look for sales and deals like the ones we've highlighted from Best Buy, Amazon, and others.If you have a little more to spend, I'd recommend upgrading to an OLED because the Sony A80L, the Samsung S90C and the LG C3 are all 2023 OLEDs you can pick up on sale. The cheapest among these is the C3 TV, which costs about $1,396. When will this deal expire? Deals are subject to sell out or expire at any time, though ZDNET remains committed to finding, sharing, and updating the best product deals for you to score the best savings. Our team of experts regularly checks in on the deals we share to ensure they are still live and obtainable. We're sorry if you've missed out on this deal, but don't fret -- we're constantly finding new chances to score savings and sharing them with you at ZDNET.com. Show more Featured reviews

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Wireless charging is the easiest way to charge your device these days, and if you have a Samsung phone, you can take advantage of some of the fastest wireless charging available. You'll need the right charger to get the fastest speeds, though, because some chargers have limited capability. If you're trying to find the best wireless Samsung charger, I have good news -- there are plenty of options available.When picking a Samsung charger, consider the following: how many devices you'll be charging, what devices you'll be charging (likea Galaxy Watch), where you'll be charging your device (at home, at work, in your car, or a combination of places), and how fast you need the charging to be.With all that in mind, ZDNET rounded up the best wireless charging devices to keep your Samsung's battery constantly up and running. Sort by All The best wireless charging accessories for Samsung 2024 Show less Samsung Duo Fast Wireless Charger Pad: Wattage:15 watts |Input voltage: 120 volts |Qi-certified:YesIf you have multiple devices like a Samsung phone and a Galaxy Watch, the Duo charger pad from Samsung is the perfect option. With up to 15W of Fast Wireless Charging support, it's compatible with USB PD and Super Fast Charging (if you have a 25W power adapter). Indicator lights tell you the charging status of your devices and a cooling fan preventsoverheating. The slim design means it won't take up too much space, and it will charge through most cases. Pros Slim design LED indicators Cooling fan Cons Pricey Doesn't include charging brick needed for fastest speeds Samsung Duo Fast Wireless Charger Pad: Wattage:15 watts |Input voltage: 120 volts |Qi-certified:YesIf you have multiple devices like a Samsung phone and a Galaxy Watch, the Duo charger pad from Samsung is the perfect option. With up to 15W of Fast Wireless Charging support, it's compatible with USB PD and Super Fast Charging (if you have a 25W power adapter). Indicator lights tell you the charging status of your devices and a cooling fan preventsoverheating. The slim design means it won't take up too much space, and it will charge through most cases. Read More Show Expert Take Show less Show less View now at Amazon Anker 313 Wireless Charging Stand: Wattage:15 watts |Input voltage:5 volts |Qi-certified:YesAnker is one of the most reliable names in cell phone accessories, and this charging stand is one of the most popular options. It has 10W high-speed charging for Samsung Galaxy phones (it's also iPhone compatible if you're a mixed ecosystem household), charges in landscape or portrait mode, and charges through many cases (but not magnetic or metal ones). Pros Affordable Charges both Samsung and iPhone devices Cons Won't charge through all cases Doesn't come with AC adapter Anker 313 Wireless Charging Stand: Wattage:15 watts |Input voltage:5 volts |Qi-certified:YesAnker is one of the most reliable names in cell phone accessories, and this charging stand is one of the most popular options. It has 10W high-speed charging for Samsung Galaxy phones (it's also iPhone compatible if you're a mixed ecosystem household), charges in landscape or portrait mode, and charges through many cases (but not magnetic or metal ones). Read More Show Expert Take Show less Show less iOttie Easy One Touch Wireless 2 tech features: Wattage: 10 watts |Input voltage: 5-12 volts | Qi-certified: YesThis small charger that plugs into your car's USB port is enough for an emergency charge, but if you need to see your phone while driving, the iOttie Easy One Touch Wireless 2 is the best Samsung wireless charger for your car. The suction cup dashboard mount is perfect if you're using GPS, the grip is flexible enough to accommodate phones of all sizes and the bottom of the mount is height adjustable as well. Pros Fits almost all phones Secure suction Nice visibility for phone GPS Cons Section cup can leave marks on windshield Cheaper chargers are available iOttie Easy One Touch Wireless 2 tech features: Wattage: 10 watts |Input voltage: 5-12 volts | Qi-certified: YesThis small charger that plugs into your car's USB port is enough for an emergency charge, but if you need to see your phone while driving, the iOttie Easy One Touch Wireless 2 is the best Samsung wireless charger for your car. The suction cup dashboard mount is perfect if you're using GPS, the grip is flexible enough to accommodate phones of all sizes and the bottom of the mount is height adjustable as well. Read More Show Expert Take Show less Show less View now at Best Buy Samsung Wireless Charger Trio tech features: Wattage: 12 watts |Input voltage: 9 volts | Qi-certified: YesIf you need to charge multiple devices wirelessly at once, say several phones, Galaxy Buds, a Galaxy Watch, or some combination of all of the above, the Samsung Wireless Charger Trio is your best option. This charger can accommodate up to three devices at the same time, and is even compatible with some Apple products. There's a special magnetic spot for the Galaxy Watch, but the rest of the pad is open to all other devices.One of the biggest advantages of this product is that it has six individual coils for charging, meaning there's not one "sweet spot" you have to hit. There are LED indicators for every spot, and it supports fast charging. Pros LED indicator light Charges through most cases Cons Slower charging speeds for non-Samsung devices Samsung Wireless Charger Trio tech features: Wattage: 12 watts |Input voltage: 9 volts | Qi-certified: YesIf you need to charge multiple devices wirelessly at once, say several phones, Galaxy Buds, a Galaxy Watch, or some combination of all of the above, the Samsung Wireless Charger Trio is your best option. This charger can accommodate up to three devices at the same time, and is even compatible with some Apple products. There's a special magnetic spot for the Galaxy Watch, but the rest of the pad is open to all other devices.One of the biggest advantages of this product is that it has six individual coils for charging, meaning there's not one "sweet spot" you have to hit. There are LED indicators for every spot, and it supports fast charging. Read More Show Expert Take Show less Show less View now at Amazon Yootech Wireless Charger tech features: Wattage: 10 watts |Input voltage: 9 volts | Qi-certified: YesIf you're looking for the absolute, most affordable wireless charger for a Samsung phone, this Yootech pad fits the bill. It can struggle with thicker cases, and it doesn't offer super fast charging, but at under $10, it'll charge your device efficiently every time. The compact design makes it easy to toss in a bag if you're traveling, and it has rubber grips on the bottom to ensure it doesn't slide around on your desk or table. Pros Affordable Multiple color options Support for fast charging Cons Struggles with thicker cases Yootech Wireless Charger tech features: Wattage: 10 watts |Input voltage: 9 volts | Qi-certified: YesIf you're looking for the absolute, most affordable wireless charger for a Samsung phone, this Yootech pad fits the bill. It can struggle with thicker cases, and it doesn't offer super fast charging, but at under $10, it'll charge your device efficiently every time. The compact design makes it easy to toss in a bag if you're traveling, and it has rubber grips on the bottom to ensure it doesn't slide around on your desk or table. Read More Show Expert Take Show less What are the best wireless chargers specifically for Samsung? The Samsung Fast Charge Wireless Charging Stand wins the vote for best Samsung wireless charging accessory. It's affordably priced and provides Qi-certified charging with the power to handle your fast-charging devices.To see how it compares, here is an overview of the best wireless charging accessories for Samsung.Best wireless charging accessory for SamsungCostWattageVoltageSamsung Duo Fast Wireless Charger Pad$5515 watts5-9 voltsAnker 313 Wireless Charging Stand$2015 watts5 voltsiOttie Easy One Touch Wireless 2$3610 watts5-12 voltsSamsung Wireless Charger Trio$7212 watts9 voltsYootech Wireless Charger$1310 watts9 volts Show more What is the best wireless Samsung charger for you? Wireless charging accessories can help streamline your charging experience, keep your space free of tangled cords, and even amp-up your Samsung's functionality or charging speed. With so many iterations available on the market, ZDNET rounded up the top picks keeping in mind factors such as function and daily use. Here's how our picks stack up to each other and which one may be the best fit for you.Choose this best wireless charging accessory for Samsung...If you want...Samsung Duo Fast Wireless Charger PadA Qi-certified wireless charger that will handle two Samsung devices at once.Anker 313 Wireless Charging StandA wireless charger that serves as a stand to see your clock or watch videos at your desk.iOttie Easy One Touch Wireless 2A wireless car charger for Samsung. This Samsung charger is faster than your average wireless charging accessory, getting you on your way without delay.Samsung Wireless Charger TrioTo charge multiple devices. This Samsung wireless charging accessory comes with a 3-in-1 design you can use to charge your Samsung watch.Yootech Wireless ChargerA budget-friendly option that's highly durable and offers 10-watt charging for phones that have fast-charging capabilities. Show more How did I choose these best wireless charging accessories for Samsung? We chose these Samsung charging accessories through a mix of carefully curated research to take into consideration the everyday need and functionality of each product. We also considered the following when making our top selections.Speed: When charging your phone, you want the fastest possible option to minimize that time on the charger. Look for a charger that is fast charging-enabled to ensure that it will give you the fastest possible charging time for your device.Compatibility: The last thing you want is to buy a wireless charging accessory that doesn't work for your Samsung. Instead, check the charger's compatibility before you buy. All Samsung chargers will indicate which brands and models it is compatible with, so it is easy to know which chargers will work and which ones won't.Design: From tabletop mounts to car chargers, there are many different types of Samsung wireless charging accessories that you can buy. Consider how and when you plan to use it. For example, if you spend a lot of time in your car, a charger stand may not be the best fit for you when there are Samsung car chargers available to buy.Qi Certification: The best Samsung wireless charger accessories are Qi-certified, which means that they have been tested and approved by the Wireless Power Consortium (WPC) for safe charging. It gives consideration to critical safety features like temperature regulation and surge protection. To check whether your charger is Qi-certified, you can visit WPC's Qi Product Database. Show more Are wireless chargers worth it? Wireless charging accessories may be more expensive than charging cables, but there are tons of benefits that you get with a wireless charger that you simply do not receive with its wired counterpart. There are no cords to get tangled or frayed, and wireless chargers tend to offer better longevity and durability than your average wired charger. They also typically offer better safety protections like Qi certification and built-in surge protection. Show more Is 10W or 15W better for wireless charging? It all depends on your device. Not all Samsung devices are able to accommodate fast charging, so it would be pointless to purchase a charger with 15-watt charging. However, if your phone is compatible with fast charging, with more watts resulting in faster charging for your device. Show more How much do the best wireless charging accessories for Samsung cost? The best Samsung wireless charging accessories are generally affordable but can vary in cost based on factors like construction, features, and size. We found that the best wireless charging accessories for Samsung all cost $50 or less, with some options like the Yootech Wireless Charger as cheap as $20for the charger set. Show more What are the best wireless iPhone charging accessories? If you have an iPhone, be sure to check out ZDNET's picks for thebest iPhone accessories, thebest MagSafe battery, and thebest MagSafe accessories. Show more Which Samsung phones have wireless charging? Most Samsung devices nowadays support wireless charging. However, the charging speed and power can vary, depending on the device you have. For a full list of compatible devices, check out the chart below.Device typeDevicesGalaxy NoteGalaxy Note20 5G, Note20 Ultra 5G, Note10+, Note10, Note9, Note8, and Note 5Galaxy S phonesS24 series, S23 series, S22 series, S21 series, S20 series, S10 series, S9 series, S8 series, S7 series, and S6 seriesFoldable phonesGalaxy Z Fold, Z Fold2, Z Fold3, Z Fold4, Z Flip, Z Flip 5G, Z Flip3, Z Flip4, Z Fold 5, Z Flip 5, Z Fold 6, Z Flip 6Samsung earbudsGalaxy Buds Pro, Galaxy Buds Pro 2, Galaxy Buds Live, Galaxy Buds+, Galaxy Buds2, and Galaxy BudsSamsung smart watchesGalaxy Watch7 & Ultra, Galaxy Watch6 & 6 Classic, Galaxy Watch 5 Pro, Galaxy Watch5, Galaxy Watch4, Galaxy Watch4 Classic, Galaxy Watch, Galaxy Watch3, Galaxy Watch Active, and Galaxy Watch Active2Additional devicesGalaxy S7/S7 Edge, Galaxy S8/S8+, and Galaxy S9/S9+ Show more Are there alternative best wireless charging accessories for Samsung worth considering? These are far from the only wireless charging accessories for Samsung that you can buy. These are some other picks we considered. Show more Further ZDNET Tech Coverage Smartphones Smartwatches Tablets Laptops TVs Other Tech Resources ZDNET Recommends

With changes in administration, the transportation sector is anticipating change. Here are four transportation trends to watch in 2025 and beyond:Exploring key transportation trends in 2025: EV challenges, AV optimism, rail resurgence, and public ... [+] transits potential comeback.gettyChallenges and Opportunities for EVs: A Tale of Two Markets The electric vehicle (EV) industry in the U.S. faces several significant threats in 2025. A potential rollback of the Biden administrations pro-EV policies could hinder EV adoption.Meanwhile, China is experiencing a surge in EV production, with domestic manufacturers flooding the market with attractive options and benefiting from government incentives. This contrast highlights the different trajectories for the EV markets in the U.S. and China. American automakers in China struggle to compete, as most still produce combustible engines, and their struggles in China are negatively impacting their bottom lines globally.While pure EVs face an uncertain future, hybrids are enjoying a resurgence. Hybrids offer the benefits of lower fuel costs without the range anxiety associated with pure EVs. Additionally, if there is a focus on expanding oil supplies in the U.S., as the incoming Trump administration has promised, both hybrids and traditional combustible engines could benefit from lower fuel prices.Robotaxis and Autonomous Vehicles (AVs): Mostly Hope on the HorizonThe National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is the U.S. Department of Transportation agency responsible for regulating the safety, design, and performance of all motor vehicles and motor vehicle equipmentincluding AVs. While the first Trump administration embraced AVs with a relatively hands-off regulatory approach, the Biden administration tightened regulations, leading to a decline in optimism. With Trumps return, his proposed pick, Sean Duffy, to lead the NHTSA does not shed much light on the future of AVs due to his lack of transportation experience.MORE FOR YOUHowever, with Elon Musk co-leading a new Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) under Trump, regulations hindering AV development will likely be revisited, potentially paving the way for faster progress. Musks Tesla is betting big on autonomous vehicle features and robotaxis. Musk advocates for a federal approval process for AVs, rather than the current state-by-state approach, and likely wants the NHTSA to ease its investigations into Teslas driver assistance features.Unlike Tesla, GM has busted its robotaxi bet with its decision to exit the robotaxi race. Additionally, Apple has canceled its California permit after putting $10 billion into its AV unit. Both exits highlight the challenges in this industry. Regulatory hurdles and resource demands have proven to be significant roadblocks. However, Amazon has entered the robotaxi space with the rollout of its Zoox cars in San Francisco.Despite the industrys struggles, consumer confidence in AVs is improving, which bodes well for the future of the technology. So much so that Im hopeful well soon see AVs portrayed as heroes in films and media, rather than the villains in dystopian classics like Maximum Overdrive, Christine, and Minority Report. However, one audience that may continue to harbor negative sentiments towards AVs (and robotaxis in particular) is rideshare drivers. Early signs from cities like Phoenix and Los Angeles suggest that AVs are already impacting driver earnings. How drivers respond to this disruption remains to be seen.Heavy Rail: Revival or Risk of Budget Cuts? Unlike other sectors, passenger rail is experiencing a resurgence in the U.S. Brightline, which currently provides rail travel between Miami and Orlando, is building a bullet train from Southern California to Las Vegas. Theres even talk of bullet train possibilities in Texas. With these new lines being built, most are excited for passenger rails future. Trumps re-election, on the other hand, has caused rail watchers to fear for future funding, as historically, Republican administrations tend not to favor rail and transit. These concerns are heightened by the new administrations laser-focus on cost-saving measures, with many expecting DOGE to target rail for budget cuts.Public Transportations Comeback: Will Return-to-Office save the day?Amazon announced the termination of its hybrid work program starting in 2025. If other companies follow suit, public transit ridership could return to pre-pandemic levels, helping cities to avoid their fiscal cliffs and rekindle their 9-5 City natures.Public transit ridership is already trending upward, according to third-quarter 2024 data from the American Public Transportation Association. However, it remains to be seen if this trend will be enough to save public transit, as they also face potential scrutiny under DOGE and the incoming administration.As we enter 2025, the transportation sector will continue to evolve, with various factors influencing its direction. Keeping an eye on these trends will be crucial for understanding the future of transportation.

Fireworks in Nagaoka, Japan. The vibrant colors are made possible by minerals.gettyThere would be no bright and colorful fireworks without rocks and minerals.A firework is produced by launching a shell containing fuel and a color mix high into the air, where it explodes. This explosion propels brightly burning particles in all directions, creating streaks of light in the air.Mixing coal with saltpeter creates gunpowder, the most basic firework fuel used already in ancient China. Nitratine, a highly reactive mineral, is the natural form of sodium-nitrate utilized as an oxidizer in fireworks, supporting the combustion of the fuel.The vibrant colors in a firework don't come directly from the burning fuel, as burning gunpowder results only in a weak yellow, but metallic minerals that are deliberately added to the mix. As the fuel burns at a very high temperature of over 1,000 degrees Celsius, the atoms in the crystal structure release energy emitting a specific wavelength of light that we perceive as a distinct color.The element barium produces green light. Barium is obtained from the barium-sulfate baryte. The baryte group also includes the strontium-sulfate mineral celestite.Baryte crystal on matrix from Cerro Huarihuyn, Peru.gettyMORE FOR YOUStrontium is one of the most abundant elements in the Earths crust. However, only two carbonate mineralscelestite and strontianitecontain enough strontium for commercial use. Celestite is named for its sky-blue color and is the principal source for strontium, an element that produces purple light if burned in a firework.Celestite crystals from Morocco.gettyThe element calcium will produce yellow light. Named from the Latin word meaning lime, calcium is very common in limestone rocks composed of calcite and dolomite.A single calcite crystal.gettyThe elements sodium and cadmium will produce yellow light. Most sodium is obtained nowadays by processing the mineral halite, also known as common table salt. But sodium occurs in many other minerals, including silicates like amphibole, zeolite and the fluorite mineral cryolite. Cadmium minerals are very rare and include cadmoselite, greenockite and otavite. Cadmium can replace zinc in sphalerite and similar sulfide minerals, so most is recovered during the industrial processing of zinc-, copper- and lead-ores.Close-up of the cadmium mineral greenockite.De Agostini via Getty ImagesBurning magnesium, titanium and aluminum will emit a bright white light, adding brightness to a firework. Aluminum and magnesium also will significantly heat up the burning mix, reaching temperatures of almost 2,000 degrees Celsius.Magnesium is found in magnesium-bearing carbonate minerals like dolomite and magnesite. Other less common magnesium minerals are kieserite and brucite. However, nowadays, most elemental magnesium is obtained by electrolysis of magnesium chloride, which can be obtained in virtually unlimited quantities from salt water.Tiny dolomite crystals forming a dolostone.gettyAluminum is the most abundant metallic element in the Earths crust and can be obtained from bauxite ore. Bauxite is geologically speaking a sedimentary rock, as it is a mix of minerals like gibbsite, bhmite and diaspore, and forms by intense weathering of granitic rocks rich in feldspar and mica.Bauxite ore with high content of reddish aluminum oxide.gettyThe element titanium occurs within a number of iron and oxide minerals, principally rutile and ilmenite, which are widely distributed in Earth's crust.Rutile on matrix from Valle Cervo, Italy.gettyBlue to green light is produced by burning copper and manganese. Copper is found in many carbonate minerals like azurite and malachite. Other sources for copper are chalcocite, a sulfide named after the Greek word for copper, the copper silver sulfide acanthite, and the rare copper iron sulfide bornite. Most copper, however, comes from chalcopyrite, a very common copper iron sulfide.Green malachite from the Democratic Republic of the Congo.gettyManganese easily reacts with water and air. On Earth, manganese is never found as a free element, but it is found in a number of minerals. The most important of these minerals is the manganese dioxide pyrolusite.Pyrolusite ore is a mineral basically composed of manganese dioxide.gettyBurning cobalt will produce blue light. Cobaltite is a mineral composed of cobalt, arsenic, iron and sulfur. Although rare, it is mined as a significant source of this strategically important metal, as most modern technology will not work without cobalt alloys. Traces of cobalt can be found also in more common minerals like carrollite, a sulfide combining nickel, copper and cobalt, and linnaeite, a cobalt nickel sulfide.A single cobaltite crystal on rock matrix.getty