Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg told Joe Rogan that the Biden White House sought to censor critical claims about Covid vaccines.

Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo wrote in a post on Friday that Apple is losing market share in China due to declining iPhone shipments

Jeff Bezos Blue Origin is set for an inaugural launch of its giant New Glenn rocket on Sunday, a long-awaited first leap to Earth orbit that sets up one of the biggest challenges yet to industry dominance enjoyed by Elon Musks SpaceX.Standing 30 stories tall, New Glenn has been a core focus for Blue Origin since the beginning of its decade-long development, representing a multibillion-dollar effort to sate demand for satellite constellation launches and snatch market share from SpaceXs workhorse Falcon 9.If successful in its debut, New Glenn can later start launching Amazons broadband internet satellite constellation, Kuiper, that will rival SpaceXs Starlink network, accelerating competition on another front.Blue Origin for years has launched and landed its much smaller, reusable New Shepard rocket to and from the brim of Earths atmosphere. It has yet to send anything into orbit in the 25 years since Bezos founded the company to have millions of people working and living in space.That could change this week, but with new rockets, success is not guaranteed.New Glenn is scheduled to launch at 1 am ET (0600 GMT) on Sunday from the companys launchpad at the Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, sending to orbit its first Blue Ring satellite a maneuverable spacecraft designed for satellite servicing and national security missions in space.Compared with SpaceXs Falcon 9, the worlds most active rocket, New Glenn is roughly twice as powerful with a payload bay diameter two times larger to fit bigger batches of satellites. Blue Origin has not disclosed the rockets launch pricing. Falcon 9 starts at around $62 million.New Glenn, however, would not be as powerful as SpaceXs next-generation Starship, a fully reusable rocket system in development that Musk sees as crucial to expanding Starlinks footprint in orbit. Starship in its next test flight this month will attempt to deploy mock satellites.Found a sweet spotThere are dozens of launches and hundreds of millions of dollars sitting on New Glenns docket. Blue Origin has booked multi-launch deals with Eutelsats OneWeb, Canadas Telesat and satellite-to-cellular device company AST SpaceMobile.New Glenn has found a sweet spot that has enabled them to get more customers than anyone else right now, said Caleb Henry, a satellite and launch analyst at Quilty Analytics, of the space companys potential in satellite constellations.SpaceXs Falcon 9, which ignited the industrys reusability trend for its cost savings potential, made early landing attempts of the rockets core stage by returning it to the ocean during development a decade ago, before attempting touchdowns on drone ships.New Glenns reusable core stage will make its first landing attempt on a drone ship a few minutes after liftoff.New Glenns rocky development has spanned three CEOs and at times slowed as Blue Origin took on other ambitious projects, such as building a moon lander for NASA.As much of the Western world grew reliant on SpaceX for accessing space, Bezos in late 2023 sought to jolt New Glenn out of development paralysis by replacing Blue Origins CEO with Dave Limp, a deputy from Amazons devices unit, to speed things up.Blue Origin engineers have felt the urgency from the top, according to multiple employees.Weve never had the entire company fully focused on one thing so aggressively like this before, one Blue Origin employee said. For all of the last year its basically been everyones mission every day to get to this first launch.New Glenn also would compete with the less-powerful Vulcan rocket from United Launch Alliance, a joint venture of Boeing and Lockheed that is planning a stronger Vulcan variant in the future.The Sunday launch is also a key certification flight required by the U.S. Space Force before New Glenn can launch national security payloads on missions it hopes to win in a multibillion-dollar procurement competition due for award later this year.Joey Roulette, Reuters

A tentative labor deal forestalled potentially damaging trade disruptions at three-dozen U.S. East Coast and Gulf of Mexico ports, with both sides in the talks crediting President-elect Donald Trump for clearing the way for them to hammer out a deal on automation.The success of the International Longshoremens Association in winning Trumps support for its anti-automation battle could be instructive for unions facing contract renewals during his term, including the United Auto Workers, UPS Teamsters and the U.S. West Coasts International Longshore & Warehouse Union.The deal, announced on Wednesday night, must be ratified by some 45,000 members of ILA and the United States Maritime Alliance (USMX) employer group.This is a six-year dtente in the tech-versus-labor tug-of-war at U.S. ports, said Judah Levine, head of research at Freightos, a freight-booking and payments platform.It landed days before an extended Jan. 15 deadline, averting a second strike that could have put a huge dent in the economy at the start of Trumps second term on Jan. 20.Father-and-son ILA leaders Harold and Dennis Daggett late on Wednesday called Trump a hero to the union and gave him full credit for the resolution of talks.They pointed to a Truth Social post in mid-December, where Trump appeared to side with the unions struggle against foreign employers after meeting with those ILA leaders.Ive studied automation and know just about everything there is to know about it. The amount of money saved is nowhere near the distress, hurt and harm it causes for American Workers, in this case, our Longshoremen, Trump wrote.The employer group, which includes Maersks APM Terminals and the U.S. arms of major container carriers such as Chinas COSCO Shipping, said the agreement came thanks in large part to President Trumps leadership.The ILA and USMX extended their bargaining deadline after a deadlock over automation sparked a three-day strike in October at major ports including New York and New Jersey, Houston and Savannah, Georgia.President Joe Biden played a vital role in helping workers win a 62% raise over six years, which ended the October strike.Biden praised both the union and employers for reaching a tentative deal on Wednesday. Trump has not commented on Truth Social and his transition team did not immediately comment.One pro-labor attorney cautioned against interpreting Trumps post on automation as union support, saying that it was in keeping with his pugilistic approach to international policies.It supports his narrative of going after foreigners, said Cathy Creighton, an attorney and director of Cornell Universitys School of Industrial and Labor Relations in Buffalo.Seeing the future?In a prescient move, Teamsters President Sean OBrienwho negotiated the last contract for members at United Parcel Servicenotched a union first by speaking at the Republican National Convention, where he praised Trumps toughness. The Teamsters also broke with tradition and did not endorse a U.S. presidential candidate last year. The UPS contract expires in 2028, Trumps final year in office.Pro-union attorneys said Trumps track record is not one of union support.During his first term as president, Trumps appointees to the National Labor Relations Board issued a series of rulings seen as favoring businesses and making it more difficult for unions to organize workers. The board enforces workers rights to organize and join unions and investigates allegations that employers have engaged in unlawful labor practices.In December, Trump threatened to fire federal workers who do not return to the office for work. He also tasked Elon Musk, the worlds richest person who has called the NLRB unconstitutional, with slashing the federal budget.I dont think hes going to support the labor movement, attorney Creighton said of Trump. He has sought to undermine the labor movement.Lisa Baertlein and Daniel Wiessner, Reuters

As TikTok pleads with the U.S. Supreme Court to let it continue operating in the United States, one video company is taking advantage of the uncertainty around TikToks sister app.CapCut, a video editing tool made by TikTok parent company ByteDance, has gained about 300 million users since launching outside of China in 2020, according to the data analytics firm SensorTower. It offers editing templates so that people can easily post videos on social media platforms, such as TikTok. Bloomberg reported that the companys mobile-first growth has even threatened Adobe and Canva, which have become the incumbents when it comes to making creative digital tools. And CapCut is freefor the most part, though it does offer a premium tier for $9.99 a month that comes with more professional features such as camera tracking and vocal isolation. Yet the company could be affected by a TikTok ban.Now, a smaller company called Captions, which uses artificial intelligence technology to easily cut raw video footage, is adjusting its business model in order to position itself for a future without CapCut. Captions currently has about 51 million users, according to SensorTower.On Jan. 9, Captions, which has offered a tiered plan starting at $9.99/month, announced that it is now offering a free version of its software in a move that makes video editing more accessible to budget-conscious usersperhaps those who dont need as much AI-powered cutting-edge tech. And they know theres an opportunity with CapCuts future on the ropes.Weve long considered offering a free plan to make video creation more accessible, says Gaurav Misra,Captionss cofounder and CEO. But now that millions of creators might lose their go-to editing application, the timing felt right for Captions to launch our free tierensuring that creators everywhere still have access to powerful editing tools regardless of their budget.Today, as TikToks fate rests in the hands of nine justices, the race to scoop up the platforms users isnt limited to big tech behemoths like Meta and YouTube. It extends deeper, into the very tools used to create social-ready videos. Captions, for one, isnt waiting to make a move.

ASUSs CES 2025 showcase delved into the future of computing, presenting an expansive lineup of laptops, gaming devices, and desktops. This years offerings spanned from ultraportable laptops to high-powered gaming rigs and innovative desktop solutions, demonstrating a commitment to cutting-edge technology paired with user-friendly advancements.Designer: ASUSVivobook Series: A Laptop for Every NeedThe Vivobook lineup has been strategically designed to cater to diverse user needs, offering a blend of cutting-edge performance, thoughtful design, and cost-effective solutions. This years updates emphasize user-specific enhancements, making the lineup more versatile and accessible than ever before. Leading this series is the Vivobook S, which comes in 14-inch, 15-inch, and 16-inch models, all featuring a premium all-metal chassis. These models are powered by the latest processors from Intel, AMD, and Qualcomm, ensuring they meet the needs of users seeking dependable performance wrapped in sleek aesthetics. Some configurations also support up to 32GB of RAM, providing flexibility for demanding tasks.ASUS Vivobook 14 & 16Adding a layer of versatility to the series is the Vivobook Flip, a convertible laptop designed for modern workflows and creative professionals. The Vivobook Flip excels in scenarios where flexibility is essential, such as switching between work presentations, content creation, and leisure. Its 360-degree hinge allows it to transform seamlessly between laptop, tablet, tent, and stand modes, making it ideal for dynamic environments like classrooms, collaborative offices, or on-the-go use.Available in 14-inch and 16-inch sizes, it features Intel Lunar Lake processors with a robust 45W TDP and a choice between Full HD or 3K OLED displays. These vibrant screens offer excellent clarity for media editing and immersive viewing, while integrated Wi-Fi 6 ensures uninterrupted connectivity.With its emphasis on adaptability and power, the Vivobook Flip is well-suited for multitaskers who need a reliable and versatile device. Its combination of powerful performance and vibrant visuals makes it a practical choice for modern workflows.For those prioritizing affordability, the Vivobook Classic delivers modern features without breaking the bank. Built with a plastic chassis, these models are slightly thicker and heavier than their counterparts but include essential features like USB 4, Wi-Fi 7, and Windows Hello-compatible cameras. This lineup is perfect for budget-conscious users who value functionality and efficiency in a laptop.ASUS Vivobook Pro 15Focusing on a blend of cost-efficiency and practicality, a metal lid and bottom cover strike a balance between premium design and cost efficiency. It features a muted silver color palette, a large trackpad with multi-touch gestures, and a magnetic webcam shutter for enhanced privacy. Offered in 14-inch and 16-inch sizes, this model caters to users seeking a professional appearance with practical capabilities. It supports Intel 13th Gen processors, AMD Kraken processors, and Qualcomm options, making it versatile across user needs.Finally, the 18-inch Vivobook addresses the demand for larger displays at an accessible price point. Powered by AMD processors, this model offers expansive screen real estate, making it ideal for users who prioritize a big display for multitasking or entertainment. While the display quality may not match premium models, it provides an excellent solution for those needing an oversized laptop without a hefty price tag.Zenbook Series: Ultraportable Excellence and InnovationThe Zenbook A14 unveiled as the worlds lightest Copilot+ PC, stole the spotlight with its innovative features. It sports a Ceraluminum chassis available in Zabriskie Beige and Iceland Gray, combining lightweight design with exceptional durability. Powered by Snapdragon X Series processors, the A14 boasts up to 45W TDP performance and an impressive 45 TOPS of NPU power for AI-enhanced tasks. Its 70Wh battery offers up to 32 hours of use, making it perfect for professionals on the go.ASUS Zenbook A14Another highlight, the Zenbook DUO, redefines multitasking with its dual-screen setup. The dual 14-inch ASUS Lumina OLED displays deliver up to 3K resolution and 120Hz refresh rate, ensuring vivid and accurate visuals. Powered by Intel Core Ultra 9 processors and Intel Arc graphics, it supports demanding creative and productivity tasks. Features like ScreenXpert software, a 75Wh battery, and eco-friendly design further enhance its appeal for creators.ASUS Zenbook S16The Zenbook S16 combines elegance and power in its 16-inch ASUS Lumina OLED display, offering a 3K resolution, 120Hz refresh rate, and 100% DCI-P3 color gamut. With AMD Ryzen AI 7 processors and up to 24GB RAM, it ensures seamless multitasking in a sleek 1.5kg chassis.Finally, the refreshed Zenbook 14 balances portability and performance with its 14-inch ASUS Lumina OLED display. Available with Intel Core Ultra 9 or AMD Ryzen AI 7 processors, it features smart gestures for touchpad navigation and enhanced productivity tools.Gaming Laptops: Performance Meets InnovationASUSs gaming lineup at CES 2025 introduces an impressive array of devices tailored for gaming enthusiasts. At the forefront are the Strix Scar 16 and 18, designed to push the limits of performance and customization. These flagship models feature Intel Core Ultra 9 processors and up to NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5090 Laptop GPUs. The ROG Nebula HDR displays boast 2.5K resolution, 240Hz refresh rates, and a peak brightness of 1200 nits. Advanced cooling is achieved through a vapor chamber, Tri-Fan Technology, and Conductonaut Extreme liquid metal, ensuring sustained high performance.The Zephyrus G14 and G16 models blend portability with power. Featuring AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX processors and Intel Core Ultra 9 processors, respectively, they cater to gamers and creators seeking versatile performance. The G14s 3K OLED display and the G16s 2.5K OLED display deliver stunning visuals with fast refresh rates and exceptional color accuracy.ROG Zephyrus G14/G16The Flow Z13 is a detachable gaming laptop that combines the portability of a tablet with workstation-level performance. It is powered by the AMD Ryzen Strix Halo processor with integrated Radeon graphics, supports up to 180Hz QHD+ displays, and has a unified memory architecture for seamless multitasking.ROG Flow Z13Innovative Peripherals: ASUS Fragrance Mouse and Marshmallow KeyboardASUS expanded its peripherals lineup with the Fragrance Mouse, a compact and stylish mouse that incorporates a unique fragrance compartment for essential oils. Available in Iridescent White and Rose Clay, it offers ergonomic design, low-noise operation, and up to 12 months of battery life.ASUS Marshmallow KeyboardThe Marshmallow Keyboard complements modern setups with its minimalist design, quiet typing experience, and versatile connectivity. It supports up to three devices and offers an impressive 24 months of battery life, making it an excellent choice for professionals and casual users alike.ASUS Fragrance MouseA Future-Focused VisionASUSs CES 2025 lineup encapsulates a transformative approach to technology, emphasizing innovation and user-centric design across diverse product categories. The ultraportable Zenbook A14 impresses with its exceptional battery life and sleek construction, catering to professionals who demand mobility without compromise. Meanwhile, the gaming laptop range, including the Strix Scar and Zephyrus models, pushes performance boundaries with cutting-edge hardware and enhanced customization options like the AniMe Vision display.ROG XG Mobile expands ASUSs gaming ecosystem by introducing a high-performance external GPU solution. GPU and customizable desktop towers further broaden ASUSs ecosystem, showcasing the companys ability to cater to both gamers and creators with tailored solutions. These devices reflect a commitment to blending high performance with accessibility, ensuring users have the tools they need for work, play, and creative endeavors.ASUS ROG XG MobileBy addressing the needs of diverse user groups, ASUS is shaping the future of computing with thoughtful design and advanced technology. Each product reflects a balance of performance, accessibility, and innovation, setting a strong tone for the year ahead.The post ASUS CES 2025: Groundbreaking Advancements in Gaming, AI, and Laptops first appeared on Yanko Design.

As extreme wildfires become the new norm, scientists are trying to crack how to save lives.

While Supreme Court justices pressed both sides in Fridays oral arguments, experts say its hard to see how TikTok gets enough votes to survive.

MacworldApple is opening a new store at the Worldcenter in downtown Miami, Florida later this month, but even if you dont live in Florida, you can take part in the celebration.To mark the new stores grand opening, Apple has made a new wallpaper to Bring your deviceinto full bloom. The colorful artwork features an array of foliage in various colors with an Apple logo in dark teal at the bottom. The images are meant to mimic the stores theme, which is anoasis in the heart of the city, where nature thrives and creativity flourishes.Apple has also released an Apple Music playlist that will presumably play throughout the store on opening weekend. The track list includes songs from Shakira, Gloria Estefan, and Becky G, and is also curated in the spirit of the store:Created from the ground up to reflect Apples values, Miami Worldcenter is Apples most sustainable storecentered on universal design principles, while creating an inviting space where everyone is welcome. In that spirit, weve put together a playlist featuring some of Miamis favorite Latin music stars to help us celebrate the stores opening.The wallpapers are available for the iPhone, iPad, and Mac, and can be installed by adding them to your Photos app and going to the Wallpapers tab in Settings (or System Settings on a Mac).

Synchrony Pay Later can soon be used to complete purchases in installments via Apple Pay.Synchrony Pay Later can be used with Apple Pay.Synchrony joins existing companies such as Affirm and Klarna, both of which offer buy-now, pay-later services via Apple Pay. They act as a replacement to Apple Pay Later, an installment service Apple abandoned in 2024.The support page for Apple Pay lists Synchrony under the pay with installments section, first discovered by MacRumors. The service should appear under the "Other Cards & Pay Later Options" at checkout when using Apple Pay. Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums