The year has just begun, and Apple might already be in Sherlocking mode to create a new app for iOS called Invites. Details are still thin on what this app might look like, but it could potentially be a competitor to Evite orPartiful.According to findings in iOS 18.3 beta 2 code by 9to5Mac, Apple might be creating a new way to share invites for both in-person and online events. The report suggested that this app would be integrated with iCloud and would possibly have a web version hosted on iCloud.com as well.Apple already lets you send invites through the Calendar app for events such as meetings. However, the new Invites app might not work like calendar invites. It could be a way to share a link to a page that shows event details in a visually compelling way as well as a list of invitees think about birthday parties, weddings, school reunions, company-wide events, etc.The report suggests that Apple will be using a relatively new internal framework called GroupKit to manage groups of people, such as invitees. It also noted that Apple could release a mini app for iMessage to access the Invites app.The company hasnt officially announced anything or given any hints to indicate that users will be able to try out this new app soon.

This course covers the many aspects of creating compelling, realistic VFX in Unity. It covers a broad range of topics that will provide you with a solid understanding of the tools and processes involved in creating performant real-time visuals.Designed for beginners or intermediates in mind (with many tips and tricks for the more experienced), all of the fundemetnal areas of VFX are explored, equipping you with the tools and knowledge for you to create your own awesome VFX!Youll find the course on UDemy here: https://www.udemy.com/course/creating-realistic-vfx-in-the-unity-game-engine/?referralCode=83EB45C5C41564E9093D

Elizaveta Porodina pushes the boundaries of modern photography in her 2024-25 collaboration with New York City Ballet. All images courtesy of the artistNew York City Ballet Art Series Presents Elizaveta PorodinaJanuary 9, 2025SponsorNew York City BalletElizaveta Porodina is a renowned photographer and artist based in Munich, Germany, whose work often features surreal, symbolic narratives, blending fashion, fine art, and documentary influences. Her background in clinical psychology shapes her work with the complexities of the human experience, using photography as a medium for exploring the subconscious mind.Working in a diverse range of styles from dark, cinematic portraits to vibrant, dreamlike compositions, Porodinas photography invites the viewer to embark on a journey through time and space, drawing them into deep, sometimes ambiguous, worlds. With a keen eye for cinematic compositions and a profound connection to the emotional power of imagery, she continues to push the boundaries of modern photography in her 2024-25 collaboration with New York City Ballet.Porodinas work will be on view at three special New York City Ballet Art Series performances on January 24, 31, and February 8 eve. The evenings will include a ballet performance, viewing of the installation, and a post-performance afterparty where all tickets are priced at $54 (including fees).To learn more and purchase tickets, visit nycballet.com/artseries.Next article

Tech Solar device transforms used tires to help purify water so that it's drinkable A sustainable solution for water purification and energy generation Published January 9, 2025 6:00am EST close Solar device transforms used tires to help purify water so that it's drinkable Clean drinking water is available even in the most remote areas. Imagine a world where clean drinking water is readily available even in the most remote areas.This vision is becoming a reality thanks to innovative research from scientists in Canada.A team of scientists at Dalhousie University in Halifax, Nova Scotia, has developed a groundbreaking device that could revolutionize water desalination, offering hope to millions facing water scarcity worldwide. Floating solar still process (Dalhousie University)The power of plasmonic solar stillsAt the heart of this innovation is a floating solar still, a device that harnesses the sun's energy to purify seawater.Dr. Mita Dasog, an associate professor of chemistry and Killam Memorial chair at Dalhousie, explains the science behind it: "Refractory plasmonic nanomaterials are very good at capturing light and converting that light into heat."This principle forms the foundation of their ingenious design. The solar still, conceptualized by Dr. Matthew Margeson during his Ph.D. studies, addresses challenges that have long plagued similar devices. It minimizes thermal losses, prevents salt buildup and can withstand harsh maritime conditions. Researcher pictured next to floating solar still (Matthew J. Margeson)How it worksThe floating solar still operates through an elegantly simple yet highly effective process. First, ocean water is drawn up to the device's foam surface through a wicking system. Once the water reaches the surface, it is evaporated by solar-heated plasmonic materials. As the water vapor rises, the salt is left behind, ensuring that only purified water is collected. The vapor then recondenses on a clear plastic dome situated above the device. Finally, the purified water is funneled down the sides of the dome and collected in a sealed bag for easy access.The results of this process are impressive. In real-world tests conducted in Halifax Harbour, the device produced up to 0.97 gallons of clean water daily, which was a record-breaking yield for passive floating solar stills.WHAT IS ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (AI)? Floating solar still process (Dalhousie University)Upcycling for sustainabilityWhat sets this device apart is its use of unconventional materials. Instead of relying on expensive precious metals, the team turned to an unlikely source: used tires. Through a process called pyrolysis, carbon waste from tires is transformed into a crucial component of the desalination unit.Dr. Dasog emphasizes the importance of accessibility: "We shouldn't be making an expensive or very complicated device. It has to be easy to manufacture, last for a long time and be easy to take apart and move." This approach not only makes the technology more affordable but also addresses the environmental issue of tire waste.GET FOX BUSINESS ON THE GO BY CLICKING HERE Floating solar still process (Dalhousie University)Affordable water purification and energy generation in one deviceThe device's capabilities extend beyond water purification. It can simultaneously desalinate, disinfect and decontaminate water at a remarkably low cost: less than one cent per liter. It can also generate a small amount of thermoelectricity, potentially powering onboard water quality sensors.Looking aheadThe team's next step is to conduct further testing in South Asia, with the ultimate goal of making the device available worldwide. Dasog, nominated for the Emerging Leader award at the Water Canada Summit, envisions the device as a lifeline for communities displaced by war or climate change.Kurts key takeawaysAs we tackle the growing challenges of water security, innovations like the plasmonic solar still shine a light of hope. By blending cutting-edge science with sustainable materials, the researchers at Dalhousie University are doing more than just purifying water; theyre paving the way for a future that is both equitable and resourceful. This device not only makes clean drinking water accessible but also highlights how we can use renewable energy sources to address pressing global issues.CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APPIf the sun could power one solution to improve human life, what would you want it to be? Let us know by writing us at Cyberguy.com/Contact.For more of my tech tips and security alerts, subscribe to my free CyberGuy Report Newsletter by heading to Cyberguy.com/Newsletter.Follow Kurt on his social channels:Answers to the most asked CyberGuy questions:New from Kurt:Copyright 2025 CyberGuy.com.All rights reserved. Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson is an award-winning tech journalist who has a deep love of technology, gear and gadgets that make life better with his contributions for Fox News & FOX Business beginning mornings on "FOX & Friends." Got a tech question? Get Kurts free CyberGuy Newsletter, share your voice, a story idea or comment at CyberGuy.com. Related Topics

Maria Diaz/ZDNET2025 just began, and it's already shaping up to be a great year for robot vacuums. We're seeing unparalleled innovation in this category at theComputer Electronics Show (CES), with futuristic technology coming to store shelves near you this year, including robotic arms and robots that can climb stairs.Also: CES 2025: The 15 most impressive products so farAs I roam the halls of CES this year, it's becoming clear that robot vacuums are not what they were even five or six years ago. With self-washing and self-emptying robots becoming the norm, the competing edge has shifted to looking for innovation elsewhere, developing more of the robotic aspects of the device. We've checked out all of the most innovative robot vacuums at CES this year, and here are our picks for the best ones.1. Roborock Saros Z70Best robot vacuum at CES 2025 Maria Diaz/ZDNETThe Roborock Saros Z70 is our pick for the best robot vacuum at CES 2025. This new robot vacuum and mop with a mechanical arm will be available in the first half of the year. The five-axis arm is tucked into the robot's body and automatically deploys.During a first pass, the robot vacuum cleans your floors and takes note of any temporary objects it detects and recognizes on the floors. The Saros Z70 then does a second pass across your floors to deploy the robotic arm to pick up the objects and put them away in a predetermined spot, then cleans the spot the item occupies.Also:The best CES 2025 products you can buy right nowAs mentioned above, the Roborock Saros Z70 will be available later this year, but the price has yet to be announced.2. Dreame X50 UltraBest robot vacuum for high thresholds at CES 2025 Maria Diaz/ZDNETThe Dreame X50 Ultra is a brand-new robot vacuum and mop that is a redesign of the previous model, the X40 Ultra. This robot is so unique that it can climb short steps up to 6cm in total, with new robotic legs that lift the robot as it approaches a step it can tackle.The robot vacuum has a new dual-roller brush system that directs dirt and debris toward one side of the robot's body, where the nozzle is now located. This approach prevents hair tangles expertly, as the hair slides off the roller brush towards one end, instead of staying in the middle of the brush while trying to go into the nozzle.Also:The best wearable tech we've seen at CESThe best part? The Dreame X50 Ultra's MSRP is lower than its predecessor, the $1,900 X40 Ultra. The new Dreame X50 Ultra has a $1,700 MSRP, but an early bird pre-order offer has it at only $1,310.3. Mova V50 UltraBest suction power in robot vacuum at CES 2025 Maria Diaz/ZDNETThe strongest suction in a robot vacuum on the market is from a brand you've likely never heard of. After years in Europe and Asia, Mova is entering the US market with the Mova V50 Ultra robot vacuum and mop that features 24,000Pa of suction power. This is the strongest suction we've seen so far, with the next tier featuring the Roborock Saros Z70 and Eureka J15 Max Ultra, both of which feature 22,000Pa of suction.The Mova V50 Ultra has a mopping feature with dual-rotating mop pads, an extendable side brush and mop pad, and it also features a retractable LiDAR sensor that tucks itself into the robot when it detects it needs to clean under furniture.4. Ecovacs X8 Pro OmniBest mopping robot vacuum at CES 2025 Maria Diaz/ZDNETEcovacs' new X8 Pro Omni is the company's latest robot vacuum and mop, released with an extendable OZMO roller mop instead of rotating mop pads. The mop technology, developed by partner Tineco, ensures the robot always mops your floors with clean water instead of dragging a dirty pad. The mop is continuously scrubbed clean within the robot's body, which features two separate clean and dirty water tanks.Also:CES 2025: These 9 best mobile accessories have impressed us the mostThe X8 Pro Omni, launching this spring, features 18,000Pa of suction power on the vacuum side, expert navigation that creates a real-time 3D map of its surroundings, and improved AI to navigate complex environments.5. Narwal FlowBest robot vacuum for carpets at CES 2025 Maria Diaz/ZDNETThe latest Narwal Flow is the company's new flagship robot vacuum, with a redesigned logo and new technology packed into the robot. This robot vacuum and mop also features a mop roller instead of dual rotating mop pads, but its biggest strength lies in the vacuum.The Deep Carpet Boost technology automatically increases suction when a carpet is detected and lowers the roller brush to reach deep into carpet fibers, reaching dust and dirt that other machines would otherwise miss.Honorable mentions Maria Diaz/ZDNETYeedi S14 Pro: The new Yeedi S14 features the same OZMO roller technology from the Deebot X8 Omni, with TrueEdge 2.0 adaptive cleaning and ZeroTangle 2.0 technology. This robot vacuum and mop will be available in March.Eureka J15 Max Ultra: This Eureka robot vacuum is smart enough to detect clear liquids in front of it, turn off the suction, and turn around to mop up the liquid with the mop pads. It's coming to the market in June at the $1,299 price.SwitchBot K20+ Pro: This is the best multitasking robot vacuum at CES 2025. It's a self-emptying robot vacuum with an overlaying platform that connects to the robot for navigation. The platform works to transport items around the house, but it also has various ports to connect a camera and have the robot surveil your home, for example. What is CES? The Consumer Electronics Show (CES) is a technology show that takes place each year in Las Vegas, Nevada. It's the biggest event of the year for the technology world, where thousands of companies showcase their latest products. Show more ZDNET Recommends

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Whether its an employee accidentally clicking on a phishing link or a system misconfiguration, human error is often the weakest cybersecurity link.gettyAs technology evolves, so do the threatsand the cybersecurity solutions to combat them.Cybersecurity in 2025 will see significant shifts, driven by AI advancements, operational needs, and regulatory pressures. Heres a closer look at the top three predictions.1. Technology Takes Center Stage in Cybersecuritys Classic TriadFor years, the mantra in cybersecurity has been that people, processes, and technologies form an equal triad in protecting systems.While all three pillars remain critical, 2025 will see a heavier emphasis on technology. Why? Even with the most highly trained personnel and efficient processes, there will always be vulnerabilities.Whether its an employee accidentally clicking on a phishing link or a system misconfiguration, human error is often the weakest link.When attackers breach this entry point, technology becomes the key to minimizing damage. Advanced tools can detect anomalies, block suspicious activity, and respond faster than any human could.For instance, AI-driven platforms analyze vast amounts of data in real time to identify threats before they escalate.In 2025, companies will focus on these technological solutions to ensure business continuity and protect sensitive data. Its not about sidelining people or processesits about leveraging technology as the ultimate safeguard.2. Cybersecurity Teams Wont Go It AloneOnly 1 in 3 data breaches are discovered by in-house security teams or tools.Relying solely on internal resources for cybersecurity is no longer feasible. As IT environments grow more complex and the talent gap widens, businesses are increasingly turning to managed security services (MSS). In 2025, this shift will accelerate, with MSS providers becoming indispensable partners for 24/7 monitoring, threat detection, and rapid incident response.In fact, one of the key advantages of this approach is the ability to view cyber threats from multiple perspectives. In-house security teams typically approach risk management from an internal standpoint, focusing on known threats and system configurations. However, external partners can offer fresh insights and identify emerging threats from an outside view. Additionally, Cloud ERP providers bring specialized protection to their systems, offering tailored security for business applications, infrastructure, and databases.This collaborative approach helps create more comprehensive, 360-degree protection strategyies. By combining internal security resources with external expertise, businesses can stay ahead of cyber risks and reduce the strain on in-house teams.3. The Cloud Wars Will Heat Up Over SovereigntyIn a world of tightening privacy laws and growing geopolitical tensions, control over data will become a battleground in 2025. Seven out of ten countries have established regulations addressing data privacy or digital sovereignty.The concept of cloud sovereigntyensuring that data is stored and processed in specific regions to comply with local regulationswill dominate conversations.Businesses are demanding that cloud providers offer more transparency and control over data flows to meet evolving compliance needs.Major players like SAP together with AWS, Microsoft Azure, and Google Cloud are already responding with localized cloud offerings, but the stakes are growing. Sovereignty is no longer just about compliance; its about trust.As concerns over cross-border data risks mount, companies will gravitate toward solutions that give them control over encryption keys, storage locations, and access policies tailored to their jurisdictions.What Does This Mean for You?AI is revolutionizing the threat landscape, managed security services are redefining operational models, and cloud sovereignty is establishing new standards for data governance. Together, these forces are pushing businesses to rethink their cybersecurity strategies for 2025 and beyond."The companies that will thrive in this evolving environment will be those that successfully blend in-house security management with external expertise, leveraging resources like Cloud ERP providers to bolster their defenses. and support regulatory compliance.Finding the right balance between internal security measures and external services and solutions will be essential to stay ahead of increasingly sophisticated cyber threats and regulations.Ultimately, those organizations that can adapt quickly, embrace these changes, and take a proactive approach to cybersecurity and compliance will be best equipped to navigate the complexities and succeed in the face of future challenges.Want to learn more? Check out SAP Cloud ERP Security and Compliance.

How can companies determine which features to build and which ones to avoid?

Identifying vulnerabilities is the first step toward building an antifragile organization.