One of the best premium phone controllers is on sale today at Best Buy. Right now you can get a Backbone One USB Type-C mobile gaming controller, compatible with Android and iPhone 16 smartphones, for only $49.99 after a savings of 50%. This is the lowest price we've seen for a Backbone controller and as a bonus, if you play Call of Duty: Warzone Mobile, you'll appreciate the 30-minute 2XP token that's included. This is the black color variant with Xbox style buttons.50% Off the Backbone One Controller (USB-C)Black with Xbox Style ControlsBackbone One (USB Type-C)The Backbone One turns your iPhone into a gaming handheld with an integrated gamepad much like the ones found on the Steam Deck, Nintendo Switch, or ASUS ROG Ally. You simply snap your phone into the controller and you're ready to go. Instead of using your phone's touchscreen, you can now use actual physical controls which includes dual joysticks, a D-pad, and programmable buttons. It makes for a more intuitive, more precise, and more enjoyable gaming experience. In our Backbone One review, Matthew Adler wrote that "the Backbone Ones unique expanding controller connects directly to your iPhone for a low-latency gaming experience that feels great to use. Despite some lackluster buttons on the controller itself, it manages to create a seamless experience that blurs the lines between console and mobile gaming by producing a true home screen experience in the Backbone app. The tight integration between hardware and software makes it feel like a real platform, and one that will only continue to evolve through updates as time goes on."The Backbone One is compatible with hundreds games (including Call of Duty Warzone Mobile, of course) from Apple Arcade, Xbox Cloud, PlayStation Remote Play, and Steam Remote Play, as well as any mobile game that already supports other standalone controllers. Not every game is compatible, however, so if you have a particular game that you play religiously, you'll want to confirm that it's supported before you jump on this deal.Check out more of the best iPhone accessories to buy in 2025.Why Should You Trust IGN's Deals Team?IGN's deals team has a combined 30+ years of experience finding the best discounts in gaming, tech, and just about every other category. We don't try to trick our readers into buying things they don't need at prices that aren't worth buying something at. Our ultimate goal is to surface the best possible deals from brands we trust and our editorial team has personal experience with. You can check out our deals standards here for more information on our process, or keep up with the latest deals we find on IGN's Deals account on Twitter.Eric Song is the IGN commerce manager in charge of finding the best gaming and tech deals every day. When Eric isn't hunting for deals for other people at work, he's hunting for deals for himself during his free time.

Above: A recent project by Electric Bowery features a undulating rattan light fixture. Lighting is like the jewelry of home decorit can add the perfect finishing touch to your space and instantly take it to a whole new level. In case you need some redecorating inspiration, we tapped interior designers to share the biggest lighting trends set to shine in 2025so you can easily revamp your living areas even if you aren't ready for a full remodel.From sculptural floor lamps and mid-century-inspired options to artful, iridescent sconces, there's a little something for every room and style. Below, discover 13 standout lighting styles experts expect to see everywhere in 2025. And while you're at it, make sure to check out their top predictions for this year's sofa and living room trends, too.Statement Floor Lamps"The resurgence of bold, vintage-inspired designs might well steal the show, and floor lamps will be the lead fixture," says Pascale de Fouchier. "I have a crush on the Romani floor lamp, which embodies this [aesthetic]. I love that its classical shape is oversized, and its finish brings a touch of modern whimsy."Four Hands Romani Floor Lamp$1,599 at LumensStained GlassStudio Dorion's Michelle Ficker is also noticing the return of stained glass lighting (the auction market shows no sign of cooling down either). "Louis Comfort Tiffany is one of the great American designers, and his sensibilities align with the broader trend toward opulent decorating and eclectic charm," Ficker explains. She's eyeing an original 1950s table lamp, but for an under-$100 option, this pretty leafy one offers a warm glow.Dale Tiffany Cape Reinga Lamp$98 at lampsplus.com Monopoint LightingStep aside, recessed lighting2025 is all about monopoint lights. Allison Handler likes to cluster hers in groups, or a use single fixture to highlight a hero piece of art or furniture. "It's an easy way to add decorative lighting and create a moment in spaces that may not have the ceiling height or room for a larger piece."Troy Lighting Caleb Semi Flush Mount$190 at 2ModernSoft MaterialsAccording to Chango creative director Susana Simonpietri, softer accents like paper globes, fabric sconces, and ribbon appliqus will continue to be in the spotlight this year. "They're not new mediums, but we're seeing unique ways to apply them within lighting," she says. "Fabrics can be layered or ruched, which gives off a soft and interesting light. A go-to for us are Japanese paper globes; they're classic, sculptural, and always create interest in a space without trying too hard."Lia Pendant Light with Shade$369 at Crate & BarrelLayers of ivory faux silk shades appear suspended in mid-flutter, shaping our graceful pendant light. Lightly pleated with countless slender folds that add to the dynamic look, the shade calls to mind a blooming flower or the swirling skirts of a dancer. Light filters softly through the pendant's layered shades, highlighting the gleam of the pendant's burnished brass hardware. With an ivory cloth cord that completes the airy, ethereal look, Lia floats beautifully above a dining table or in a living room or bedroom.Lia Pendant Light with Shade21.5"Hheight30"dia.diameterMeasurements are in inches.Poly-blend faux silk and iron shadeIron finial and ceiling plate with burnished brass finishAdjustable 6' ivory cloth cord5.5"-dia. ceiling plateE26 bulb typeAccommodates one bulb up to 60W incandescent or 8.5W LED (not included)Suitable for slanted ceilingsHardwire (professional installation recommended)Can be installed on slanted ceilingsNot suitable for bathroom useDust with soft, dry clothImportedSwag LightingIn 2025, Noz Nozawa is prioritizing swag lighting. "From pendant lights on hooks to multi-swag chandeliers, there is something so special about being able to make your light fixture bespoke by customizing exactly where you hang each point of light," she says. Trueing's Cerine Triple Pendant is currently at the top of her wishlist, but we'd say Nozawa's own chain link design is equally eye-catching.Noz Nozawa for Corbett Lighting Daith Chandelier$1,751 at LumensArty Sconces "We love incorporating lighting that doubles as art into our projects, and we've recently been drawn to sculptural designs," say Jesse Rudolph and Joelle Kutner, principal designers at Ome Dezin. Their current pick is Blue Green Works' colored glass Palm Sconce, but if you're not ready to splurge on a price-upon-request option, Lulu and Georgia also offers an impressive array of artful styles. Lulu and Georgia Sundby Sconce$498 at Lulu and Georgia Perimeter Lighting"Over-lighting has been happening for nearly forty yearswe're so scared to under-light that we create kitchens you could perform surgeries in," says Toronto-based designer Sam Sacks. "I am excited to see an increase in perimeter lighting being used instead of relying on recessed coves or decorative surface mounts." She suggests placing a few flush or semi-flush mounts along the edges of a room for softer, easy customizable lighting.Rejuvenation Paige Cylinder Semi-Flush Mount$399 at Rejuvenation Pop of Color Don't be afraid to play with colorful lighting choices. "I specifically see this trend happening in the kitchen space, where lighting can be so prominent in a design," says Hilary Matt. "Look for bold hues being introduced via pendant lighting over the island or even a funky table lamp that's styled on a countertop."Schoolhouse Dolores Table Lamp$299 at schoolhouse.com Organic Showstoppers"We're predicting a rise in sculptural lighting that feels grounded and organic," says Electric Bowery co-founder Lucia Bartholomew. Think: bold shapes in natural textures that add intrigue without overpowering a room. "We like to pair these fixtures with materials like wood, stone, or textured plaster," she continues. "In dining spaces, we often position a statement chandelier as the anchor above the tablefor corners or nooks, a sculptural pendant can create an intimate moment."Arturo lvarez Tempo Vivace Pendant $1,052 at Anthropologie Playing with Scale"Using scale to create interest is here to stay," says designer Zo Feldman. "It's all about mixing big and small, playing with unconventional proportions, and using lighting as a sculptural statement." For example, she likes placing a large pendant in a smaller room, and prefers to use smaller, delicate piece to add subtle detail in a larger space.Mitzi Davida Pendant$550 at mitzi.com Ethereal FormsNick Ozemba, co-founder of design studio In Common With and concept shop Quarters, is loving ethereal lighting, "where sculptural forms and the emotive qualities of light come together," he explains. Key styles include whimsical silhouettes and options with frosted shades that create a soft ambiance. Soho Home Estelle Wall Light$595 at sohohome.com Sculpted Ceramics"Ceramics are a trend that are emerging through artisan-crafted pendants and sconces," says Erin Lamey at LoBello Designs, who suggests shopping via local artisans to find one-of-a-kind pieces. "I love how these bring an earthy, personal touch, softening modern designs." One of her favorite ways to style the aesthetic? Pitting a handmade ceramic pedant against a natural stone vanity.Mullan Lighting Rivale Pendant Light $240 at EtsyMid-Century RebootLindsey Colhoun notes mid-century style pieces will be another major statement lighting, or "functional art," trend this year. "We're seeing a move toward lighting that's as much about sculpture as it is illumination," she says. ""I love how they effortlessly blend style and function, making them ideal for desks, side tables, or even entryways where a touch of artistry can transform the space."Isabel Moncada Modern Fluted Table Lamp $1,350 at 1stDibsElly LeavittFashion & Luxury Commerce EditorElly Leavitt is a fashion and luxury commerce editor with over seven years of experience covering fashion and design. Her writing can be found in Harpers BAZAAR, ELLE, Town & Country, Esquire, ELLE Decor, and more. Previously, she was an editor at Domino magazine. You can probably find her in line at Trader Joe's. You will never find her at SoulCycle.

For her family's mountain house in Stone Ridge, New York, Mimi & Hill cofounder Hillary Kaplan strayed from the grown up, colonial-influenced interiors her design studio is known for. Instead, she blended minimalist architecture with natural materials to create a serene retreat that feels deeply connected to the surrounding Hudson Valley. But more striking than the deviation from Kaplan's signature style is the fact that she did it all in a spec house.Not that she just took the out-of-the-box configuration that came standard. Kaplan worked with developer NevelHaus and INC Architecture & Design to customize the floor plan to better fit her familys lifestyle. She started by reconfiguring the main floor of the five-bedroom, five-bathroom home, flipping the proposed dining and living rooms. This allowed ample wall space for a Samsung Frame TV and a prominent corner spot for a wood-burning stove in the living area, where her family enjoys cozy moments together. Another major upgrade to the 4,400-square-foot house involved increasing the number of recessed lights. Sconces and pendants were also put in for variety. "This layering approach added warmth and character, transforming the space from a typical new build into a more inviting and cozy environment," Kaplan says.In the basement, Kaplan divided what originally was an open layout into a shared bedroom and big family room. The latter doubles as a movie night hangout and pool house. In the home's two lofted areas, Kaplan also did some reimagining. She left part of it open for a reading nook, where her family also avidly plays backgammon. The other part of it was enclosed and functions as an additional bedroom with a pullout daybed that converts into a king-size bed.All of these careful adjustments turned the house into a personalized haven. And better yet, "by not moving any major wall placement from the original spec-house plans, we were able to not have to spend any extra cost on construction," Kaplan adds. Related StoriesLiving RoomNicole CohenTo play up the home's scenic mountain setting, visible through tall windows, Kaplan maintained a muted, earthy color palette. She filled the house with local pottery and midcentury art, which "lends a feeling of established architecture to a newer home." Vintage furnishings made of natural materials and textured accents help ground the space, giving it soul."The home was envisioned as a true mountain retreat, and we leaned into that aesthetic," Kaplan says. "The scale of the main living area was central to achieving this, evoking the open, airy feel of mountain spaces and reflecting the expansive natural surroundings."Sofa: Lee Industries. Chairs: Mazo Design. Coffee table: Lock & Mortice. Rug: Orientalist Home. Wall art: vintage.KitchenNicole Cohen"The beauty of the waterfall edge of the silver wave marble is the true eye catching element in this kitchen," Kaplan says. "It almost appears to be petrified wood merging the organic feel with the function of the kitchen."Wall paint: Cloud Cover, Benjamin Moore. Counter: Peter Brooks Stone Works Inc. Pendants: Allied Maker. Chairs: Lee Industries. Cabinetry: Form.Nicole CohenA small patterned Peter Fasano wallpaper adds elegance to the small pantry tucked behind a glass door. Cerused black oak cabinets hide the large family's everyday needs.NookNicole CohenA nook outfitted with bench seating and a stone top table, both from Four Hands, along with reupholstered chairs from the '70s make the perfect setup for family game nights.Pendant: Arteriors. Dining AreaNicole CohenA vintage cabinet from Hollywood at Home nods to the warm, earthy colors of the Hudson Valley landscape. Light fixture: Bone Simple Design. Table: Four Hands. Chairs: Lee Industries. Candlesticks: Lostine.Primary BedroomNicole CohenRoman Clay walls and handwoven window shades from Hartmann & Forbes make for a truly calm setting.BedVanguard Furniture. Bedding: RH and Parachute. Bedside table: Soho Home. Wall paint: Kerri Walsh Faux Finishing. Table lamp: vintage.Kids' RoomNicole CohenThe row of beds in this guest room are ideal for sleepovers, while the neutral color palette suits the home's serene style. Headboard: Norwegian Wood. Sconces: Lostine. Shades: Hartmann & Forbes. Wardrobes: Four Hands. Wallpaper: Cole & Son. Primary BathroomNicole Cohen"The primary bathroom plays with soft marble tones and light woods to create a spa like environment," Kaplan says.Mirror: Arteriors. Sconces: Allied Maker. Vanity: Vanguard Furniture.Guest BedroomNicole CohenNicole CohenA textured wallpaper by Phillip Jeffries and organic linen bedding make guests never want to leave the cozy, cocooning space.Bed and seating: Lee Industries.Sconce: Hector Finch. Nightstand: Soho Home. Wall art: vintage. Table: Four Hands. Rug: Lulu and Georgia.BathroomNicole CohenNicole CohenThe lower level bathroom is clad in handmade green glazed Fireclay tiles and white oak paneled walls.Wallpaper: Fayce Textiles. Rug: vintage.Follow House Beautiful on Instagram and TikTok.

Apple in 2022 announced a new CarPlay experience that became known as CarPlay 2.0. However, this new version of CarPlay has yet to see the light of day and many wonder if Apple quietly scrapped the project as the company missed the deadline twice. But 9to5Mac has found evidence that Apple is still working on it.CarPlay 2.0 is still in the worksBased on the code of iOS 18.3 beta 2, which was released to developers on Tuesday, the company is still working on the CarPlay 2.0 project. Todays beta adds multiple references to CarPlayHybridInstrument in the Maps app. This integration was shown by Apple in the marketing images for the new CarPlay, which can display map directions alongside the speedometer and other car instruments.To corroborate the idea that the project hasnt been abandoned (yet), we also found in todays beta multiple new codes related to controlling the cars air conditioning with CarPlay, something that is also expected to come with CarPlay 2.0.To recap, CarPlay is the iOS interface specifically designed to be displayed on the cars built-in screen when an iPhone is connected. In June 2022, Apple announced that it was working with automakers to integrate CarPlay even more deeply into cars. This would allow drivers to control not only media, but also key vehicle functions right from CarPlay.At first, Apple said that the first cars with the new CarPlay experience would be launched in 2023, but that didnt happen. The company then set a new deadline for the end of 2024, but again, nothing happened. Apple is yet to set a new date for the launch of the first cars with the next generation of CarPlay.Its hard to say what exactly happened. While theres a theory that automakers didnt like the idea of giving Apple total control over their cars (like GM, which decided to ditch CarPlay from its EVs), theres also a chance that CarPlay 2.0 simply isnt ready yet as the company continues to add related features to iOS 18.Well have to wait until Apple officially announces something, but knowing that the company is still internally working on the project is certainly a relief for those who really want to see the new CarPlay experience in action someday.Add 9to5Mac to your Google News feed. FTC: We use income earning auto affiliate links. More.Youre reading 9to5Mac experts who break news about Apple and its surrounding ecosystem, day after day. Be sure to check out our homepage for all the latest news, and follow 9to5Mac on Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn to stay in the loop. Dont know where to start? Check out our exclusive stories, reviews, how-tos, and subscribe to our YouTube channel

Apples MacBook Pro just received an M4 update, and theres an M5 version expected in late 2025. But its the model coming in late 2026 that sounds especially compelling. This new MacBook Pro could even be the biggest Mac upgrade ever. Heres whats coming.Total redesign thats thinner and lighterThe MacBook Pro last received a big redesign in 2021. That update restored previously-removed ports, fixed longstanding keyboard issues, and was largely seen as Apples apology for prior missteps.According to multiple reports, the MacBook Pro will get its next big revision in 2026. This total redesign will makes the device thinner and lighter.Those words may ring alarm bells for MacBook Pro users who lived through the butterfly keyboard era. But with Apple Silicon, Apple has so far proven its able to make devices thinner and lighter without compromising on power.Im curious to see what the port situation is on the new MacBook Pro. My hope, though, is that Apple can slim the device down without sacrificing any ports it recently restored.OLED display with no notchAnother key espect of the MacBook Pro redesign will be its display, which is expected to ditch the notch as part of a switch to OLED.The new display is expected to feature similar OLED tech to whats found in the M4 iPad Pro. And in place of the notch will be a smaller hole cut.Does that mean well get a Dynamic Island on the Mac? Well have to wait and see, but OLED on the iPad Pro is fantastic, so it will be great to see it come to the Mac too.M6 chip lineThe M4 has been available less than a year, and only just arrived on the Mac two months ago, so theres nothing concrete known about the M6 yet.However, Apple is expected to ship an M5 MacBook Pro in 2025 with the same basic design available now, which means 2026s big update should come with M6, M6 Pro, and M6 Max configurations.5G cellular connectivityApples new in-house 5G modems are launching this year in select products, and a second version of the modem is set to debut in 2026, with the MacBook Pro a likely recipient.Ive long advocated for adding cellular to the Mac, and identified Apples in-house modems as the next best chance for this to finally happen. Per Mark Gurman, it sounds like thats what Apple is thinking too.Wildcard: Touch supportTouch on the Mac has been rumored off and on for as long as the iPads existed. It hasnt happened yet, and perhaps it never will.However, theres solid evidence that the 2026 MacBook Pro might be Apples target for the first touch-enabled Mac.Back in early 2023, Mark Gurman reported that a touchscreen MacBook Pro was in development. He said at the time that 2025 was the targeted release window. In the same report, Gurman wrote:As part of the MacBook Pro revamp, Apple is also planning to move its displays to organic light-emitting diode, or OLED technology.So touch and OLED were, at least at one point, planned to go together in a new MacBook Pro.The projected 2025 date was also reportedly when Apple wanted to ship OLED in the MacBook Pro, and thats now been pushed to 2026.It seems, then, that Apples plans to ship an OLED touch display in the MacBook Pro havent changedjust the timing.All of this is reiterated by a more recent Gurman hint that Apples near-term plans for the Mac involve faster chips, thinner designs and touch screens.I could be reading the tea leaves too closely, but it sounds a lot to me like 2026s big MacBook Pro redesign could finally bring touch support to the Mac.MacBook Pro 2026 upgrade: wrap-upWere still a solid 20+ months away from when Apple is expected to launch its big MacBook Pro redesign. As a result, many of the above details could change.That said, if Apple is able to deliver all of these new features in a powerful, redesigned MacBook Pro, it will undoubtedly be the single best upgrade the device has ever seenand perhaps the best Mac upgrade ever.Do you expect to see these MacBook Pro changes happen in 2026? Why or why not? Let us know in the comments.Best Mac accessoriesAdd 9to5Mac to your Google News feed. FTC: We use income earning auto affiliate links. More.Youre reading 9to5Mac experts who break news about Apple and its surrounding ecosystem, day after day. Be sure to check out our homepage for all the latest news, and follow 9to5Mac on Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn to stay in the loop. Dont know where to start? Check out our exclusive stories, reviews, how-tos, and subscribe to our YouTube channel

Believe it or not, were just five months away from the announcement of iOS 19. Ahead of that launch, rumors have started to surface on things like new iOS 19 features, supported devices, and more.Will your iPhone support iOS 19? Every year, one of the most important questions is which iPhone models will support the newest iOS update. As it turns out, theres good news across the board for iPhone users in 2025. According to the oft-reliable folks at iPhoneSoft, all devices that support iOS 18 will be able to update to iOS 19. That means the following devices will support iOS 10 this year: iPhone XRiPhone XS and XS MaxiPhone 11iPhone 11 Pro and 11 Pro MaxiPhone 12 and 12 miniiPhone 12 Pro and 12 Pro MaxiPhone 13 and 13 miniiPhone 13 Pro and 13 Pro MaxiPhone 14 and 14 PlusiPhone 14 Pro and 14 Pro MaxiPhone 15 and 15 PlusiPhone 15 Pro and 15 Pro MaxiPhone 16 and 16 PlusiPhone 16 Pro and 16 Pro MaxiPhone SE (2nd gen)iPhone SE (3rd gen)The key context, of course, is that not all features in iOS 19 will be available on all iPhone models. Some of the most power-hungry features, like Apple Intelligence, will be limited to only the newest iPhone models. iOS 19 featuresLLM Siri According to Bloomberg, one of the major new features in iOS 19 will be an upgraded version of Siri that is powered by advanced large language models, or LLMs. The new Siri will interact more like a human and perform similarly to other platforms like ChatGPT and Googles Gemini. It will also tie into the existing App Intents system in iOS to offer precise control of third-party apps, Bloomberg says. Currently, iOS 18 offers ChatGPT integration as part of Siri and Apple Intelligence. However, Apples goal with iOS 19 is to bring this functionality in-house and emphasize the privacy benefits of its platform compared to OpenAIs ChatGPT. Of note, even though Apple will reportedly announce this new LLM Siri as part of iOS 19, the system wont actually ship until 2026 as part of a subsequent update such as iOS 19.4. DelaysEven as we approach the announcement of iOS 19 in June, Apple is still working to complete the rollout of features announced for iOS 18 last year. Some of the most impressive and powerful Apple Intelligence features announced for iOS 18 still havent been released and arent expected until iOS 18.4 in March. According to Bloomberg, Apples work ongoing iOS 18 development means that a larger-than-usual number of features scheduled for iOS 19 have already been postponed until spring 2026. This is because Apples engineers are still working on iOS 18 projects when theyd usually already be on to the following OS. This means that iOS 19 might be missing a number of key features when its released in September. The missing features would then be added gradually over the coming months as part of iOS 19.1, iOS 19.2, iOS 19.3, and iOS 19.4. iOS 19 release date timeline iOS 19 will likely be announced at WWDC in June and will subsequently be available in beta testing with developers. A public beta for iOS 19 will likely be released in July, followed by a release to everyone in September. Prior iOS developer beta release dates: iOS 18: June 10, 2024iOS 17: June 5, 2023iOS 16: June 6, 2022iOS 15: June 7, 2021iOS 14: June 22, 2020Prior iOS public beta release dates: iOS 18: July 15, 2024iOS 17: July 12, 2023iOS 16: July 11, 2022iOS 15: June 30, 2021iOS 14: July 9, 2020Prior iOS official release dates: iOS 18: September 16, 2024iOS 17: September 18, 2023iOS 16: September 16, 2022iOS 15: September 20, 2021iOS 14: September 16, 2020Wrap upDo you have any features on your iOS 19 wishlist? Are you hoping that Apple continues to double down on Apple Intelligence, or would you rather see a focus on non-AI features? Let us know down in the comments. Well keep this guide updated as more iOS 19 rumors emerge ahead of WWDC 2025. My favorite iPhone accessories: Add 9to5Mac to your Google News feed. FTC: We use income earning auto affiliate links. More.Youre reading 9to5Mac experts who break news about Apple and its surrounding ecosystem, day after day. Be sure to check out our homepage for all the latest news, and follow 9to5Mac on Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn to stay in the loop. Dont know where to start? Check out our exclusive stories, reviews, how-tos, and subscribe to our YouTube channel

Yikes.Page BurnerThe popular book app Fable has come under fire for its AI-generated annual roundups, which some users say gave them offensive messages about race and gender, Wired reports.These days, every app imaginable is deploying its own take on the wildly popular Spotify Wrapped feature by providing personalized end-of-year recaps for users' consumption habits. Hopping on the trend, Fable tried to stand out by using AI to "playfully roast" its readers.In some cases, however, the AI veered into overly edgy territory in what appears to be an all-too-common case of a large language model defying its guardrails.The summary for Fable user Tiana Trammell, for example, praised her for being a "soulful explorer" of "Black narratives," before about-facing completely: "Don't forget to surface for the occasional white author, okay?""I typically enjoy my reader summaries from [Fable], but this particular one is not sitting well with me at all," Trammell wrote on Threads.Become the WokerOther users reported similar cases of the AI striking an almost comically reactionary tone.One writer's Fable summary called him a "diversity devotee" and asked if he's "ever in the mood for a straight, cis white man's perspective." Trammell says she's also seen other people whose summaries snidely commented on "disability and sexual orientation."It's unclear how widespread these cases were. But Fable has responded to the complaints by issuing a formal apology. "To our community: we are deeply sorry for the hurt caused by some of our Reader Summaries this week," the company posted on Threads. "We promise to do better."What "doing better" looks like, if you're wondering, is tinkering with its AI model. "For the time being, we have removed the part of the model that playfully roasts the reader, and instead, the model simply summarizes the user's taste in books," Kimberly Marsh Allee, Fable's head of community, told Wired.Closed BookSome users, though, would prefer to see the AI's proverbial head roll."They need to say they are doing away with the AI completely," fantasy romance author A.R. Kaufer told Wired. "This 'apology' on Threads comes across as insincere, mentioning the app is 'playful' as though it somehow excuses the racist/sexist/ableist quotes."Fable's decision to muzzle its AI raises serious questions about the tech's usefulness for major brands. Surely AI's novelty is that it can whip up pithy remarks that sound like human speech. If it's not trustworthy enough to perform that function without making a serious faux pas at every turn, then why should brands trust it with their customers? And doesn't limiting these bots to become dry summarizers defeat the point of what makes them appealing in the first place?Share This Article

In a cringe-inducing attempt to curry favor with president-elect Donald Trump, Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg has announced sweeping changes on Facebook, Instagram, and Threads that will almost certainly allow hate speech, misinformation, and other deleterious drek to proliferate on the platform even more than it already does."It's time to get back to our roots around free expression," the 40-year-old tech founder said in a new video posted to Facebook. Apparently, that means replacing Meta's controversial third-party fact-checkers with user-submitted "community notes," lifting restrictions on "controversial topics," and moving its content review team from liberal California to deep-red Texas.Amid it all, a sidelong reference the millennial technocrat made to Trump suggests he's gearing up for the president-elect's second inauguration in just a few weeks."After Trump first got elected in 2016, the legacy media wrote nonstop about how misinformation was a threat to democracy," the CEO said. "We tried in good faith to address those concerns without becoming the arbiters of truth."During his five-minute-long video address, Zuckerberg admitted that the new community note scheme was "similar to X," formerly Twitter. He failed to mention, however, that its newish owner Elon Musk also announced plans to relocate X and SpaceX from the Golden State to Texas last year amid that billionaire's attempt to escape regulations and what he framed as excessive political correctness.Along with those moves, the chief meta-mate also announced that the tech conglomerate plans to "get rid of a bunch of restrictions" on topics such as immigration and gender because, as he put it, such regulations are "just out of touch with mainstream discourse.""What started as a movement to be more inclusive has increasingly been used to shut down opinions and shut out people with different ideas, and it's gone too far," Zuckerberg said. "So I want to make sure that people can share their beliefs and experiences on our platforms."Exactlywhat allowing users to"share their beliefs" means about topics like gender identity and immigration means seems painfully clear: in an environment where some groups are fighting for self-determination and safety and others are often literally braying for blood, the company is loosening its existing standards on what sorts of hateful things you can say on its platform.To round the entire thing off, the Harvard dropout also announced that Meta will be "bringing back civic content," which is his robotic way of saying that the company will soon start promoting political posts."For a while the community asked to see less politics because it was making people stressed, so we stopped recommending these posts," Zuckerberg said. "But it feels like we're in a new era now, and we're starting to get feedback that people want to see this content again. So we're going to start phasing this back into Facebook, Instagram, and Threads, while working to keep the communities friendly and positive."That last bit, if you didn't catch it, is almost laughably similar to recent comments from Musk begging people to be nicer and more positive on X even while the free speech absolutist himself tweets ableist slurs against people who criticize him.Taken together, the shifts seem almost certain to open the floodgates for hate speech in the name of free speech."We're going to dramatically reduce the amount of censorship on our platforms," Zuckerberg threatened. Given that he just appointed Dana White, UFC head and longtime Trump friend, to Meta's board, it seems best to take him at his word.Share This Article

Ozlo Sleepbuds Best overall sleep headphones $299 at Ozlo Anker Sleep A20 Earbuds Best wireless earbuds with Bluetooth for sleep $150 at Amazon QuietOn 3.1 Earbuds Best active noise-canceling headphones $277 at QuietOn Manta Sound Sleep Mask Best 2-in-1 sleep mask and headphones $143 at Manta Sleep SoundOff Sleep Earbuds Best noise-masking sleep headphones $180 at SoundOff SleepPhones by AcousticSheep Best sleep headband for side sleepers $40 at Amazon Musicozy 5.2 Sleep Headphones Best budget headband headphones for sleep $20 at Amazon Maxrock Sleeping Earbuds Best budget wired earbuds for sleeping $16 at Amazon Falling asleep with your headphones on is nothing new, but not all headphones are good at making you fall asleep and stay asleep longer. This is especially true if youre a light sleeper who can wake up at the slightest sound. Whether you want to block out the world with white noise or fall asleep to relaxing music, a good pair of sleep headphones can alter your sleep quality greatly.I've always been a light sleeper and the slightest sound disrupts my slumber. I've had disturbed sleep due to a variety of reasons, whether from city noises outside our downtown apartment, our cat taking a bath next to my head or my husband snoring. I even tried white noise machines and playing YouTube scenes on the TV to drown out the annoying noises, but these solutions didn't always work. Not to forget, they can be potentially annoying for your partner if they don't like listening to it. That's what led me to try sleep headphones.Some folks, including me, have sensitive ears or dislike plugging your ear canals with earbuds. Luckily, you can get sleep headphones come in all shapes, sizes and functionalities. You can get them as bands that wrap around your head, earbuds with Bluetooth, active noise-canceling headphones and more. Regardless of which type you pick, the right pair of sleep headphones can help you calm down, lower your blood pressure and slow your heart and breath rates -- all vital for deep, quality rest.Our CNET sleep team has been testing mattresses and sleep-related products and accessories for years. After sleeping with over a dozen sleep headphone brands, we've rounded up the best options on the market.What are the best overall headphones for sleeping?The Ozlo Sleepbuds take the crown as the best overall sleep headphones due to their comfortability and functionality. In addition to streaming your own audio, you can block out extraneous noises by listening to soothing soundscapes from its built-in sound library. These headphones also have a neat alarm feature. Best headphones for sleeping David Carnoy/CNET Battery life Up to 10 hoursANC, PNC or other Passive noise cancelingHeadphone type In-earConnection type Bluetooth When they were first released back in 2018, Bose's noise-masking Sleepbuds were hailed as game-changers for light sleepers and those dealing with sleeping partners who snored. Alas, Bose ran into some issues with the battery on both the original model and the second-gen version and ended up discontinuing the Sleepbuds, much to the chagrin of a lot of folks who really liked them. Well, three former Bose engineers acquired the rights to the Sleepbuds and have now come out with new Sleepbuds under their new Ozlo brand. They feature the same design as the original Sleepbuds -- both the buds and charging case essentially look identical -- but have a key new feature: you can now stream other audio to the buds from your phone over Bluetooth (the original Sleepbuds just stored the noise-masking sounds on the buds and didn't allow for streaming music).How they sleep: One of the Sleepbuds' biggest strengths is how tiny they are and how comfortably they fit most people's ears (they come with four different-sized ear tips). I didn't have any wearability issues with them even though I'm a side sleeper. How they sound: They're not active noise-canceling earbuds, they have good passive noise isolation and do a very good job eliminating ambient sound when you apply one of the masking sounds, whether it's waves crashing on the beach, falling rain, the crackling of a burning fire and more. You can also set a personal alarm to go off in your ears so your sleeping partner isn't disturbed and the buds can sense when you've fallen asleep while listening to music and automatically kick in your chosen noise-masking sound. Finally, there are also some sleep-monitoring features.I can't say everything worked perfectly all the time and I think Ozlo is still working out the kinks with its companion app for iOS and Android. When streaming music -- don't expect much bass but the sound was better than I thought it would be -- you have to keep the buds' case nearby because the case is used for streaming -- and charging (the buds are rated for up to 10 hours of battery life). All in all, I was impressed with this new iteration of Sleepbuds and hope there are no battery issues going forward.Pros:Has a sound libraryCan stream your own audioGreat at noise maskingComfortable for all sleeper typesCons:ExpensiveYou have to keep the case nearby for streaming $299 at Ozlo $299 at Amazon Screenshot by David Carnoy/CNET Battery life Up to 14 hoursANC, PNC or other Passive noise cancelingHeadphone type In-earConnection type Bluetooth Anker's second-generation sleep buds offer some modest but important improvements, including better battery life and new "Twin-Seal" ear tips instead of single-layer ear tips that provide a tighter, more comfortable fit and 3x better passive noise reduction, according to Anker. Like the earlier Sleep A10 buds, the Sleep A20 buds are tiny and lightweight and have a good value compared to sleep buds like the Ozlo Sleepbuds, which cost more and have similar features.How they sleep:Their flat design means they fit entirely inside your ear (or at least most ears), making them suitable for side sleeping with your ear resting against the pillow. They're quite comfortable for in-ear earbuds, although if you don't like having an ear tip covering your ear canal, I can't guarantee you'll be able to wear them all night. I like the fit of the Ozlo buds slightly better, but the Sleep A20 buds fit my ears well overall.How they sound:To be clear, there is no active noise canceling. The buds themselves passively block out some ambient noise, and then you can choose to play one of a wide selection of sleep noises, including white and brown noise, plus the typical soothing sounds of nature (rain, chirping birds, fire crackling, waves crashing) that help mask external sounds like your partner's snoring.The Sleep A20s also feature the ability to play your own music and audio via Bluetooth 5.3 from your phone or another device. The sound isn't half bad, considering how small the buds are. They're a bit bass-shy but should sound "good enough" for most folks.As mentioned, the battery life has also been improved. You can now get up to 14 hours on a single charge for sleep sounds or closer to 10 hours if you're using Bluetooth. The charging case stores an additional 55 hours.With their MEMS sensor, these headphones can also track your sleeping positions and movements throughout the night, providing sleep data and analytics. You can also set an alarm that sounds on the buds so only you, not your sleeping partner, hear it. The Sleep A20 Earbuds are among the most feature-rich sleep buds I've tested.Read about our first thoughts on the Soundcore A20 Earbuds by Anker Sleep. Pros:Sound library and streaming capabilitiesFlat, ergonomic designGreat quality for the priceCons:Do not actively cancel noise Aly Lopez/CNET Battery life 28 hoursANC, PNC or other Active noise canceling (ANC)Headphone type In-earConnection type None The QuietOn 3.1 Sleep Earbuds are nearly three times smaller than the Apple AirPods. They effectively cancel lower-frequency, consistent sounds such as snoring, car traffic, a running dishwasher or the bass from songs your annoying neighbor blasts at midnight. The earbuds come with foam tips in four different sizes so you can find the right fit for you.How they sleep: The QuietOn 3.1 Earbuds are surprisingly tiny and light, fitting snugly into your ears so you can sleep in every position, including your side -- although, at first, I had to adjust my head while sleeping on my side to prevent unwanted pressure from the earbud against the pillow. I typically don't like wearing earbuds, but I found these to be more comfortable than most other brands I've tried.For the active noise cancellation to work correctly, you have to wear the right size of foam tip in your ears. The fit should be snug and airtight, which may be uncomfortable for those with extremely sensitive ear canals. I tried the XS and small sizes before finding the medium was much more effective at reducing the noises around me.How they sound: These headphones do not have Bluetooth or connectivity; instead, they actively cancel out ambient sounds by generating opposite waveforms against the noise. This technology does not create any sound you can hear, like faint white noise, contrary to what I had expected. They're like advanced earplugs -- the goal is quietude. It's important to note that these headphones do not block everything. You can still hear higher-frequency sounds and sudden noises, which can be good if you still want to hear certain things, such as your alarm clock.I tried a few simulations and found that it significantly reduced lower-frequency sounds. As for snoring, I could still hear it faintly next to me when the snoring simulation was at full volume, but it was much less noticeable.The QuietOn 3.1 Earbuds come with a compact carrying case for easy traveling and charging. The headphones' materials are high-quality and durable, and the battery life is impressive, lasting up to 28 hours on a single charge. At nearly $300, they're expensive, but if you're consistently losing sleep because of snoring and other disruptive noises, these may be worth it. Pros:Effective low-frequency noise cancellationSmall earbuds create a comfortable and secure fitLong battery lifeCan sleep in any positionCons:ExpensiveCan't play your own audioWon't remove or block all sounds $277 at QuietOn Aly Lopez/CNET Battery life Up to 20 hoursANC, PNC or other Noise maskingHeadphone type Over-ear headbandConnection type Bluetooth We chose the Manta Sound Sleep Mask as the best two-in-one sleep accessory and one of the best for side sleepers. It has tapered C-shaped eyecups that you can move and adjust to fit comfortably. I love that the eyecups are spacious enough to prevent pressure on your eyes and keep your eyelashes from being smushed -- a bothersome element of most other sleep masks.How they sleep: The adjustable C-shaped eyecups allow you to lie comfortably in any position, including side sleeping. It's surprisingly comfortable, considering its bulkier design. I've never woken up at night because the mask caused discomfort. Thanks to its perforated design for ventilation, it doesn't make me overheat like I thought it would. With a battery life of up to 20 hours, you can wear Manta Sleep for two to three nights without charging it.How they sound: The Manta Sound Sleep Mask's sound quality is impressive. Like most other sleep headphones, songs with heavy bass sound slightly tinny at full blast but are around half to three-quarters volume are perfectly acceptable. These headphones do a great job of creating more of a surround-sound experience, and the speakers are adjustable, so you can slide them to wherever is comfortable on your ears.My only qualm is that it tends to slide off at some point as I toss and turn, and I wish the velcro on the back was grippier. It effectively blocks out the light in our bedroom, which is saying a lot because we live in the heart of a city, and our bedroom has large windows with only a day shade.Runner-up: The more affordable Lightimetunnel Sleep Headphones from Amazon are ergonomic and made of soft, breathable material that's comfortable for wearing over your eyes.Pros:Sleep mask and headphones in oneAdjustable eyecups for sleepingMachine washable after removing electronicsGreat for daytime nappingCons:Bulkier designVelcro strap is not very stickyOn the expensive sideRead more about the Manta Sound Sleep Mask in our full review. $143 at Manta Sleep Dillon Lopez/CNET Battery life Up to 16 hoursANC, PNC or other Noise maskingHeadphone type In-earConnection type None The SoundOff Sleep Earbuds have unique functionality and design. There's no Bluetooth connection, so you can't play your audio; instead, these headphones use proprietary technology to emit a pink noise that specifically masks the frequencies of snoring and other noises that can disturb your sleep.How they sleep: These earbuds are comfortable (even for smaller ears) yet take some getting used to. Whenever I take them out after wearing them for a while, I've noticed that it leaves a lingering sensation of the earbuds still being in and around my ears for a while -- but again, I have particularly sensitive ears. With its bendy, moldable material and distinctive shape that hugs around the back of your ear like a hearing aid, they stay on securely -- much better than others we tested. They're also comfortable for all sleep positions, including side sleeping and combination sleepers who flop around at night.The memory foam tips mold nicely to your ears, creating a snug fit. Each headphone has a volume button on the bottom, so you have to adjust them individually. I personally don't love having to adjust them separately, but it could come in handy in certain scenarios -- such as wanting to wear only one earbud or having hearing loss or sensitivities in one ear and not the other.How they sound: These headphones emit a pink noise that sounds like ocean waves, which is a calming soundscape shown to improve sleep. Pink noise has high and low frequencies, helping to drown out distracting noises of various tones and pitches. These headphones don't completely block out super loud noises (with the TV on high volume, I could still faintly hear it through the headphones) but sufficiently mask out most sounds -- especially snoring. My partner spends a good chunk of the night snoring, and I can't hear him at all with these on.They come with a neat charging case that can charge your SoundOff Earbuds for up to seven days before the case needs to be charged again. For that reason, they're super portable and great for traveling with.Runner-up: The Bedphones Sleep Headphones are another highly rated option. They have super thin on-ear speakers with a wire that also wraps around your ears. You can choose between wired or wireless. Each comes with an in-line microphone, so you can also answer phone calls with them.Pros:Pink noise effectively masks snoringBattery lasts up to 16 hoursComfortable, moldable fitComes with a recharging caseCons:Cannot play your own audioExpensiveHave to adjust volume on each earbud separately $180 at SoundOff Aly Lopez/CNET Battery life Up to 24 hoursANC, PNC or other Noise maskingHeadphone type Over-ear headbandConnection type Bluetooth The SleepPhones Headband by AcousticSheep is soft and comfortable. With its various colors, sizes and material options, you can find the perfect one for your preferences. I tested a small size of the Wireless Bluetooth Sleep Headphones in the breeze fabric, and I like how snugly the headband fits around my head. It doesn't slide around too much as I switch positions at night.How they sleep: This thin headband is comfortable in any sleeping position, including your side. You can adjust the position of the speakers by sliding them to the correct spot over your ears inside the headband. The main Bluetooth module piece is on the back of the headband, so I can feel it slightly when lying on my back, but it's not uncomfortable or bothersome. I appreciate that the battery lasts up to 24 hours on a single charge and that the band is machine-washable once you remove all the electronic components.You can also wear this band while working out, but if you plan on doing that, I recommend the moisture-wicking breeze fabric option rather than the fleece. I also advise opting for the breeze fabric if you sleep hot, as the material is more breathable. On the flip side, the fleece option is ideal for those who want a warm and cozy headband. The brand also offers RunPhones Headphones specifically for working out and running.How they sound: If you're listening to a song with a lot of bass on full blast, the sound quality isn't great (and my partner could hear it lying next to me). If you're wearing these to bed, you're likely listening to gentle soundscapes, an audiobook or podcast or calming music;

Our Experts Written by David Carnoy Our expert, award-winning staff selects the products we cover and rigorously researches and tests our top picks. If you buy through our links, we may get a commission. Reviews ethics statement How we test What to consider Budget Before anything else, you'll want to figure out how much you're willing to spend on a new Bluetooth speaker. Size Be sure to balance size with performance if you're looking for something that's easily portable. Durability Many Bluetooth speakers are now fully waterproof and some are fully dustproof. If you're planning on taking the speaker with you to the beach or on a hiking trip, consider a more durable speaker. Speakerphone capabilities Some speakers have a built-in microphone that turns them into a speakerphone when making calls on your cell phone. Table of Contents Back to selection