AI PCs with NPUs deliver predictive power, fix issues before you notice them, cut costs and boost enterprise productivity

President Joe Biden is moving to ban new offshore oil and gas drilling in most U.S. coastal waters, a last-minute effort to block possible action by the incoming Trump administration to expand offshore drilling.Biden, whose term expires in two weeks, said he is using authority under the federal Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act to protect offshore areas along the East and West coasts, the eastern Gulf of Mexico and portions of Alaskas Northern Bering Sea from future oil and natural gas leasing.My decision reflects what coastal communities, businesses and beachgoers have known for a long time: that drilling off these coasts could cause irreversible damage to places we hold dear and is unnecessary to meet our nations energy needs, Biden said in a statement.As the climate crisis continues to threaten communities across the country and we are transitioning to a clean energy economy, now is the time to protect these coasts for our children and grandchildren, he said.Bidens orders would not affect large swaths of the Gulf of Mexico, where most U.S. offshore drilling occurs, but it would protect coastlines along California, Florida and other states from future drilling.Bidens actions, which protect more than 625 million acres of federal waters, could be difficult for President-elect Donald Trump to unwind, since they would likely require an act of Congress to repeal. Trump himself has a complicated history on offshore drilling. He signed a memorandum in 2020 directing the Interior secretary to prohibit drilling in the waters off both Florida coasts, and off the coasts of Georgia and South Carolina until 2032.The action came after Trump initially moved to vastly expand offshore drilling, before retreating amid widespread opposition in Florida and other coastal states.Trump has vowed to establish what he calls American energy dominance around the world as he seeks to boost U.S. oil and gas drilling and move away from Bidens focus on climate change.Environmental advocates hailed Bidens action, saying new oil and gas drilling must be sharply curtailed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions that contribute to global warming. 2024 was the hottest in recorded history.This is an epic ocean victory! said Joseph Gordon, campaign director for the environmental group Oceana.Gordon thanked Biden for listening to the voices from coastal communities that oppose drilling and contributing to the bipartisan tradition of protecting our coasts.Bidens actions build on the legacy of Democratic and Republican presidents to protect coastal water from offshore drilling, Gordon said, adding that U.S. coastlines are home to tens of millions of Americans and support billions of dollars of economic activity that depend on a clean environment, abundant wildlife and thriving fisheries.In balancing multiple uses of Americas oceans, Biden said it was clear that the areas he is withdrawing from fossil fuel use show relatively minimal potential that does not justify possible environmental, public health and economic risks that would come from new leasing and drilling.A spokeswoman for Trump mocked Biden, saying, Joe Biden clearly wants high gas prices to be his legacy.The spokeswoman, Karoline Leavitt, called Bidens action a disgraceful decision designed to exact political revenge on the American people who gave President Trump a mandate to increase drilling and lower gas prices. Rest assured, Joe Biden will fail, and we will drill, baby, drill.Biden has proposed up to three oil and gas lease sales in the Gulf of Mexico, but none in Alaska, as he tries to navigate between energy companies seeking greater oil and gas production and environmental activists who want him to shut down new offshore drilling in the fight against climate change.A five-year drilling plan approved in 2023 includes proposed offshore sales in 2025, 2027 and 2029. The three lease sales are the minimum number the Democratic administration could legally offer if it wants to continue expanding offshore wind development.Under the terms of a 2022 climate law, the government must offer at least 60 million acres (24.2 million hectares) of offshore oil and gas leases in any one-year period before it can offer offshore wind leases.Biden, whose decision to approve the huge Willow oil project in Alaska drew strong condemnation from environmental groups, has previously limited offshore drilling in other areas of Alaska and the Arctic Ocean.Matthew Daly, Associated Press

Over the past year, Ive taken calls from women Ive mentoredformerly incarcerated and working hard to rebuild their lives. These are the moments that remind me why I do this work. Their voices, full of hope, share the same story: theyve made it to the final stages of a job application. Theyve been upfront about their pasts, impressed in their interviews, and now they need one final thing: a reference from me, which I provide without hesitation.But the joy doesnt last. In six instances, these women were hired, start dates set, and IT equipment received, only to have their offers rescinded after a background check revealed the nature of their crimes. Their records werent hidden; they had disclosed everything upfront. Yet somewhere between a handshake and a start date, the companies got cold feet, unable to reconcile their second-chance philosophy with the reality of these womens stories.The weight of second chancesRescinding a job offer might seem like just a line item in HRs workflow. But for the person at the receiving end, its devastating. Its a setback that impacts families, communities, and the broader social fabric. How can we call ourselves second-chance advocates if we only extend that chance to those whose mistakes feel easy to forgive?I understand the discomfort some crimes can evoke. Ive felt it, too. When faced with the reality of someones past, its natural to react with hesitation. But heres what Ive learned: behind every crime, theres context. Context doesnt excuse actions, but it provides a fuller picture of who a person is and how they arrived at that moment. More importantly, it shows us that people are not staticthey can change, grow, and heal.When our government determines that someone has paid their debt to society, its not our place to act as a secondary judge and jury. Denying them the opportunity to rebuild their lives only perpetuates cycles of poverty, marginalization, and recidivism. We all pay the pricelosing their contributions, perspectives, and hard-earned resilience.When values are put to the testBelief in second chances isnt enough. Its a cultural commitment. Inevitably, employees may discover someones past through a Google search, raising concerns. Thats where education and leadership are essential. Employees need to understand and embrace what it means to work for a compassionate, inclusive company.This demands consistent reinforcement of values, open conversations about inclusion, and clear messaging that second chances are central to a companys identitynot just when its easy but especially when its hard. HR and hiring managers must work together to hire employees who truly believe in supporting individuals striving to rebuild their lives. Those unable to align with these values may signal they arent the right fit for your organization.Companies like JPMorgan Chase and Virgin embody this commitment. Jamie Dimon and Richard Branson champion second-chance hiring because its the right thing to do. They understand that redemption is powerful and talent comes from unexpected places. Their leadership reminds us that doing whats right often means challenging assumptions and stepping out of our comfort zones.Believing in futures, not pastsThe truth is second chances are messy. They require us to confront our biases and sit with our discomfort. But theyre also transformativefor the individuals we hire and the organizations we lead. When we create a culture of acceptance and growth, we become stronger, more innovative, and more human.At the end of the day, the question we need to ask isnt whether we feel comfortable with someones past; its whether we believe in their future. And if the answer is yes, then its on us to open the door and keep it opennot just for the ones whose mistakes we understand, but for everyone who has done the hard work of owning their past and building a better path forward.Being a second-chance employer is about courage. Its about committing to values that dont waver when tested. And its about remembering that the true measure of a company isnt how it treats the perfect candidateits how it uplifts the imperfect ones.

Its truly a toss-up who dreads Q&As more after a presentationthe presenter or the audience. Conventional wisdom dictates that it should be the presenter, but experience has taught me that its actually the audience who deserves our sympathy.Thats because every professional gathering that has opened the floor to audience questions throughout history has typically included one type of person. Im talking about the individual whose so-called question is really just a thinly veiled attempt to monologue, self-promote, or divert attention away from the topic they were supposed to be paying attention to.If youve managed to avoid them at a conference or industry event to date, consider yourself lucky. But unless you completely withdraw from social interactions, youre bound to encounter a bad question directed at you or others sooner or later. Job interviews, news broadcasts, team meetings, restaurants, and especially podcasts are fertile grounds for poorly phrased questions and awkward, disjointed conversations.It takes two to tango. But outside of mathematics, its just as true that two negatives dont make a positive. So, if you find yourself steering a one-on-one conversation or have unexpectedly become the focal point and lubricant of a group discussion, let me offer some guidance.Ive spent 12 years as a historian preparing, conducting, and analyzing hundreds of interviews on a range of topics. And no matter what your job might be, the following tips are helpful for anyone seeking relief in challenging social or professional situations, where keeping a conversation flowing smoothly is paramount.1. Make it a conversation, not a depositionOne of my most memorable moments before an interview even began happened earlier this year. As we were setting up to interview a prominent lawyer, our interviewee playfully remarked, Is this a deposition? Now, that person made the comment in jest, but it has since become the most valuable piece of advice I follow before meeting with individuals whove generously volunteered their time to speak with me.Forcing a rigid list of preprepared interview questions is the quickest way to alienate your conversation partner and turn the interview into a deposition. Instead, embrace flexibility within structure. That means preparing just a few key questions to kick things off or help navigate any lulls, while focusing on broader themes throughout the conversation.2. Prepare, but dont over-prepareProfessional interviewers will quickly tell you that the time and effort spent on preparing for an interview far outweighs the actual time spent conducting it.That is true. However, it is important to note that over-preparing in an attempt to appear more knowledgeable than the interviewee can backfire. Remember the purpose of an interview. Its to gather insights from someone who, whether you agree or not, knows more than you. At the very least, they offer a perspective different from your own.Dont let insecurity lead to role reversal. While its important to speak your interviewees language and familiarize yourself with their background, avoid overshadowing them or taking the spotlight.3. Dont hide your personalityWhen interviewing someone with a larger-than-life personality or an impressive rsum, its easy to fall into the wallflower trap. Giving the interviewee room to showcase their achievements and express their views shouldnt diminish your own presence in the conversation. Otherwise, you risk getting steamrolled, or worse, losing their interest altogether. Personal anecdotes, facial expressions, body language, and occasional humor can go a long way in reminding the interviewee that theyre engaging with a real person, not an AI chatbot.Instead of viewing your interactions with a senior figure as a zero-sum game or a needlessly deferential gesture, remind yourself that the most meaningful conversations are two-way streets, not one-way roads.4. Introduce time limitsLike perishable foods, every interview has an expiration date. At some point, the quality of the conversation begins to decline. While every interviewee has a different stamina for social interaction, its generally best to keep a single interview session under 90 minutes (the table limit in most North American restaurants for one to three people): 45 to 60 minutes is the ideal duration. Setting a time limit creates a creative constraint for both the interviewer and interviewee, encouraging them to sharpen their questions and responses.No one wants to linger in a social situation longer than necessary, and the same holds true for interviews. If your interviewee has more to share than a single session allows, consider scheduling a follow-up (or even a third). As an added benefit, the time between interviews often sparks fresh insights and deeper reflections.

While milk crates are good enough for ferrying records to local gigs, these Travel Heavy cases are aimed at the professional traveling DJ. The London-based manufacturer, also called Travel Heavy, says they qualify as hand luggage "on most airlines." The aluminum cases are lined with foam and can carry 45 12" LPs, "with room for your headphones," the company claims, (though they don't mention nor show where the headphones go, or if you can carry more records if you forego the headphones). The QR codes atop each case are unique and linked to your name through your purchase. The idea is that if you lose the case, and a good Samaritan scans the code, s/he is presumably placed in contact with the manufacturer, who can notify you. Note that the shiny case in the photos is a prototype version; the production version is the one with the matte finish. These run $267 a pop.

The iPhone has long been a favorite among content creators, thanks to its cutting-edge camera technology and the ability to capture cinematic-quality videos. This makes it a powerful tool for photographers and videographers who seek both convenience and high performance in their mobile devices. Recognizing this potential, Belkin is stepping in to enhance the iPhones capabilities with a new accessory that promises to transform the device into an analog-style shooter. This innovative gadget features an ergonomic grip and a dedicated shutter button, providing users with a tactile photography experience reminiscent of traditional cameras.The new accessory, aptly named the Stage PowerGrip, is tailored for Apple enthusiasts who appreciate both style and functionality. It features a certified MagSafe-compatible magnetic clip-on mechanism that ensures a snug and secure fit on the iPhone. This design innovation allows users to attach and detach the accessory with ease, providing flexibility in various shooting scenarios. The Stage PowerGrip is specifically crafted for the iPhone 16 setup, integrating seamlessly with the latest Camera Control button introduced with this years Apple smartphone.Designer: BelkinBelkin introduced this exciting accessory at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES), where it showcased a range of other intriguing products. These include the BoostCharge Compact USB-C Charger, designed for fast and efficient charging on the go; the BoostCharge Power Bank, which offers extended battery life for multiple devices; the Soundform Isolate over-ear headphones, providing immersive audio quality; and the Soundform Anywhere earbuds, which deliver convenience and superior sound for users on the move.In terms of aesthetics, the Stage PowerGrip is set to arrive in May and will be available in a palette of vibrant colors, including powder blue, sandbox, fresh yellow, pepper, and lavender. These options cater to diverse tastes, allowing users to personalize their devices while maintaining a sleek and modern appearance. Although the exact pricing has yet to be announced, Belkin has hinted at keeping the cost below $80, making it an affordable enhancement for iPhone users.Functionality is at the core of the Stage PowerGrips design. The Bluetooth-enabled accessory emulates the classic feel of a point-and-shoot camera, complete with a shutter button positioned on top for easy access. A small integrated screen offers users the ability to explore various shooting options, enhancing the overall photography experience. Additionally, the Stage PowerGrip doubles as a 10,000 mAh wireless power bank, equipped with a 7.5W magnetic charging option. This feature ensures that the iPhone Pro Max remains charged throughout the day, catering to the demands of active users who rely heavily on their devices.For those who prefer traditional charging methods, the Stage PowerGrip includes a USB-C cable, providing an alternative to wireless charging. Furthermore, the accessory functions as a sturdy stand, keeping the iPhone in landscape orientation. This is particularly useful for shooting timed photos or for binge-watching content, as it offers stability and convenience.The Stage PowerGrip is a versatile accessory that proves invaluable for anyone who enjoys mobile photography or videography. Its ergonomic design not only enhances the shooting experience by reducing camera shake but also provides superior handling for creative endeavors. The added benefit of a built-in power bank means users can forego carrying a separate charging device, streamlining their equipment and making it a practical choice for on-the-go creators.In an age where mobile is ruling content consumption, Belkins Stage PowerGrip is set to become an essential tool for iPhone users seeking to elevate their content creation capabilities. By combining traditional camera features with modern technology, it offers a unique and enhanced user experience. Whether youre a professional photographer or an enthusiastic amateur, this accessory is designed to meet your needs, offering both style and substance in a compact, user-friendly package.The post Belkin Stage PowerGrip MagSafe power bank turns your iPhone into an analog camera first appeared on Yanko Design.

Yes, there's a lightsaber.

It's the done thing these days.

Get live reports and photos of all the products, trends, and quirky stuff we're seeing this week at CES in Las Vegas.

Real-time language translation takes another step forward with these earbuds.