Matthew Ball, CEO of Epyllion and author of The Metaverse book, dropped 220 slides in a deck this week that explained what happened in gaming.Read More

CBS considers caving on Trump censorship lawsuit to save Paramount mergerCBS considers caving on Trump censorship lawsuit to save Paramount merger / Trumps incoming FCC chairman Brendan Carr reportedly warned Paramount execs about Trumps dissatisfaction with CBS News in regards to their Skydance merger.By Richard Lawler, a senior editor following news across tech, culture, policy, and entertainment. He joined The Verge in 2021 after several years covering news at Engadget. Jan 18, 2025, 1:31 AM UTCShare this story Image: ParamountA law professor cited by CBS News called Donald Trumps $10 billion lawsuit over the editing of a 60 Minutes interview with Kamala Harris ...so ill grounded that it comes close to being sanctionable as frivolous. But now, the The Wall Street Journal reports that executives at CBS parent company, Paramount Global, have discussed settling the suit while gaming out options to reduce friction with the incoming administration ahead of a government review of its merger with Skydance. The paper reports that incoming FCC chairman and censor-in-chief Brendan Carr warned execs last year that presidential dissatisfaction with CBS News will make a review tougher. Hes also publicly displayed that view, saying during a Fox News interview in November, ...CBS has a transaction before the FCC. Im pretty confident that news distortion complaint over the CBS 60 Minutes transcript is something that is likely to arise in the context of the FCCs review of that transaction. RelatedThe lawsuit claims that in airing two differently edited versions of Harris response to a question about the war in Gaza, CBS used its national platform on 60 Minutes to cross the line from the exercise of judgment in reporting to deceitful, deceptive manipulation of news. But instead of mounting a defense of free speech against a lawsuit and Trumps accusations that the network said were false and completely without merit, Paramount is considering following the example of Disney and tech oligarchs who will line up at the inauguration like Mark Zuckerberg. The ABC News owner agreed to pay $15 million to Trumps presidential foundation and museum to settle a defamation lawsuit in December. Zuckerberg sharply redirected Metas policies to the right while meeting with Trump, reportedly in part to mediate a lawsuit Trump brought against Facebook and Zuckerberg in 2021 over the platforms suspension of Trumps account after the Jan. 6 riot at the U.S. Capitol. Most PopularMost Popular

CrewAI is an innovative platform that transforms how AI agents collaborate to solve complex problems. As an orchestration framework, it empowers users to assemble and manage teams of specialized AI agents, each tailored to perform specific tasks within an organized workflow. Just as a well-run organization delegates roles and responsibilities among its departments, CrewAI assigns defined roles to its agents, ensuring seamless collaboration toward achieving a shared objective.Core Principles of CrewAICrewAI is built on creating a synergistic AI ecosystem where agents function as specialists within a larger operational structure. This system mirrors real-world organizational dynamics by assigning agents specific roles, equipping them with specialized tools, and designing workflows that allow them to operate autonomously yet cohesively.Role-Based Agents: CrewAI agents are designed with distinct roles, such as researchers, analysts, writers, and more. Each agent operates autonomously within its defined scope, utilizing advanced tools and APIs to interact with external data sources. These agents are the building blocks of the CrewAI system, each contributing unique expertise to the overall mission.Flexible Workflows: CrewAI facilitates the design of intricate workflows that guide agent collaboration. These workflows can be sequential or parallel, allowing tasks to progress efficiently while maintaining clear dependencies and logical task progression.Task-Centric Architecture: Tasks are the fundamental units of action within CrewAI. Each task has a clear objective, specific tools, and a defined output. Tasks are delegated to agents depending on their roles, ensuring a precise and efficient approach to problem-solving.How CrewAI FunctionsCrewAI organizes agents into crews and assigns them to specialized tasks. The process is managed through several interconnected components:Crews: Crews are CrewAIs highest-level organizational unit. They oversee the collective efforts of multiple agents and are responsible for coordinating workflows, managing resources, and ensuring the timely completion of objectives.Agents: Each agent within the system is a specialized unit capable of autonomous decision-making and task execution. Agents can collaborate, share insights, and delegate subtasks, mimicking the dynamics of human teamwork.Processes and Flows: The workflow management system ensures smooth interactions between agents. Processes define collaboration patterns, manage task assignments, and control inter-agent communication to maintain efficiency and coherence.Guide for Installing and Setting up CrewAI1. Check Python CompatibilityEnsure your system has a compatible Python version (3.10 or 3.12). To verify:# bashpython3 --versionIf you need an update, download the latest Python version.2. Install CrewAI and ToolsInstall the framework and its tools using pip:# bashpip install crewai crewai-toolsFor a comprehensive installation, including all optional tools, run:# bashpip install 'crewai[tools]'3. Verify the InstallationConfirm CrewAI and its dependencies are installed correctly:# bashpip freeze | grep crewaiExpected output:crewai==X.X.Xcrewai-tools==X.X.X4. Create a New CrewAI ProjectInitialize a new project with the following command:# bashcrewai create crew my_projectThis creates a project directory with the following structure:# cssmy_project/ .gitignore pyproject.toml README.md .env src/ my_project/ __init__.py main.py crew.py tools/ custom_tool.py __init__.py config/ agents.yaml tasks.yaml5. Configure Your ProjectDefine Agents: Open agents.yaml to specify your agents and their roles:# yaml researcher: role: Researcher goal: > Conduct cutting-edge research on {topic} backstory: > An experienced researcher, skilled at finding actionable insights.Set Up Tasks: Edit tasks.yaml to outline tasks for the agents:# yaml research_task: description: > Explore the latest developments on {topic}. expected_output: > A detailed report summarizing key findings. agent: researcher6. Run the ProjectSet up environment variables like API keys in the .env file:# envOPENAI_API_KEY=your_openai_api_keySERPER_API_KEY=your_serper_api_keyThen, navigate to your project directory and execute:# bashcd my_projectcrewai installcrewai run7. Upgrade Existing InstallationsIf CrewAI is already installed, update it to the latest version:# bashpip install --upgrade crewai crewai-tools8. Example Code for Crew OrchestrationHeres a Python example (crew.py) to define and manage agents and tasks:# pythonfrom crewai import Agent, Crew, Taskfrom crewai.project import CrewBase, agent, task, crew@CrewBaseclass MyCrew: @agent def researcher(self) -> Agent: return Agent( config=self.agents_config['researcher'], verbose=True, ) @task def research_task(self) -> Task: return Task( config=self.tasks_config['research_task'], output_file='output/research.md', ) @crew def crew(self) -> Crew: return Crew( agents=self.agents, tasks=self.tasks, process="sequential", )Execute the project by running:# bashpython3 src/my_project/main.pyThis guide will create a fully functional CrewAI environment ready to orchestrate collaborative AI agents efficiently. For advanced setups or troubleshooting, refer to the CrewAI Documentation.In conclusion, CrewAI is an intelligent framework that enables AI agents to collaborate seamlessly, share insights, and autonomously execute tasks with minimal oversight. Its extensible and scalable design effortlessly integrates new tools and roles, supporting efficient task management through sequential and parallel workflows. This adaptability makes CrewAI ideal for diverse applications, including data analysis, content creation, customer service, financial risk assessment, process automation, and marketing analytics.Sources Asif RazzaqAsif Razzaq is the CEO of Marktechpost Media Inc.. As a visionary entrepreneur and engineer, Asif is committed to harnessing the potential of Artificial Intelligence for social good. His most recent endeavor is the launch of an Artificial Intelligence Media Platform, Marktechpost, which stands out for its in-depth coverage of machine learning and deep learning news that is both technically sound and easily understandable by a wide audience. The platform boasts of over 2 million monthly views, illustrating its popularity among audiences. Meet 'Height':The only autonomous project management tool (Sponsored)

Genshin Impact publisher Hoyoverse has agreed to a settlement with the United States Federal Trade Commission where it agrees to pay a $20 million fine, and be banned from sellling lootboxes to teenagers under the age of 16.In press release by the FTC, the agency announced that the makers of Genshin Impact "has agreed to pay $20 million and to block children under 16 from making in-game purchases without parental consent," as part of a settlement with the Federal Trade Commission.The FTC Director of of the Bureau of Consumer Protection, Samuel Levine, says that Genshin Impact "deceived children, teens, and other players into spending hundreds of dollars on prizes they stood little chance of winning." Levine adds that companies that utilize "these dark-pattern tactics will be held accountable" if they decieve players, especially young children and teens.The main charges against Hoyoverse by the FTC is that they allege the developer violated the Children's Online Privacy Protection Rule by marketing Genshin Impact to children and collected their personal information, as well as deceive players about the odds of winning "five-star" loot box prizes, and how much it would cost to open a loot box int he first place. The FTC claims the virtual currency system in Genshin Impact were confusing and unfair, and ultimately the system obscures the fact that players will ultimately spend large amounts of money to obtain "five-star prizes" and that children have spent hundreds to thousands of dollars to win them.Alongside the fine and the ban, Hoyoverse will be required to disclose loot box odds and exchange rates for its virtual currency, delete personal information collected from children under the age of 13, and comply with COPPA rules going forward.Matt Kim is IGN's Senior Features Editor.

SummaryCapture monsters and level them up.Use their abilities to find secrets.Explore the open ocean and take down bosses.In Synth Beasts, you take on the role of a failed experiment a Synth who escapes from its creators lab on a mysterious island. While exploring the surrounding archipelago, you encounter other Synths. However, these are far from friendly, and you are forced to defeat them in battle. Upon victory, you unlock them as playable characters, gaining access to their unique abilities for both combat and world exploration.Using your Synths in combat earns them experience points, allowing them to level up. Each Synth has five levels of progression, with unique bonuses that set them apart. As your Synths level increases, it becomes more challenging to earn additional experience, so make sure to frequently swap between them to maximize your teams potential and unlock more abilities!For example, the Psitek Synth can light torches right from the start. Then, once it reaches level three, it gains the ability to destroy projectiles with its fire slash an invaluable skill for certain dungeons. However, beyond that, most of its level-up bonuses focus on enhancing combat. Because of this, it might be better to switch to another Synth in order to unlock new abilities without needing as many experience points!Early in the game, youll gain access to a boat once used by the scientists and its yours for the taking! The Genesis Archipelago is teeming with small islands to explore hiding bonuses like extra hearts, stat-boosting items, and currency to spend in shops. If youre not the type to comb through every corner of the map, you can skip ahead to the main islands and confront the scientists directly to take down their sketchy operations.While the main islands feature boss Synths, many optional islands also be their home. Capturing all 40-plus Synths will be no small feat, but each and every corner of the Genesis Archipelago holds valuable rewards for those who seek them!Explore the Genesis Archipelago, liberate the Synth Beasts, and put an end to the scientists sinister experiments! Synth Beasts launches in 2025 on Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, and the Microsoft Store.

Sonnet just announced its new Echo 13 Thunderbolt 5 SSD Dock, the first dock of its kind to ship. The Echo 13 includes four Thunderbolt 5 ports along with a host of other I/O. If you own a M4 Pro Mac mini, or an M4 Pro or M4 Max MacBook Pro, youll be able to take advantage of the extra bandwidth provided by Thunderbolt 5. But even if youre using an older Mac with Thunderbolt 3 or Thunderbolt 4, the Echo 13 will be fully compatible.Sonnets newest dock features an M.2 SSD with up to 6,100 MB/s data transfer support via 1TB, 2TB, or 4TB NVMe SSD options sourced from Kingston. Also included is a 2.5Gb Ethernetconnection, and up to 140W of power delivery to laptop computers like the MacBook Pro.Heres a breakdown of all of the I/O included with the Echo 13:Four Thunderbolt 5 ports 1 upstream and 3 downstreamFour USB 3.2 Type-A ports2.5Gb Ethernet (RJ45) port3.5mm headset jackSD and microSD card slotsEcho 13 Thunderbolt 5 compatibilityThe Echo 13s standout feature is, of course, its Thunderbolt 5 compatibility, and Sonnet is providing four physical ports. Thunderbolt 5 is a significant upgrade over its predecessor, as it provides double the bandwidth, a full 80Gbps of bi-directional data, which will allow more ports to simultaneously provide increased performance. Thunderbolt 5 also provides bandwidth boost technology for displays, lending more bandwidth in a single direction, up to 120Gbps. Sonnets dock fully supports bandwidth boost, which should mean it will play nice with upcoming high-end display solutions, like the recently-teased LG UltraFine 6K Display.Speaking of displays, the Echo 13 supports up to two 8K displays, two 6K displays, or three 4K displays. Of course, much of this will depend on the host computers capabilities.If you dont own a Thunderbolt 5-enabled Mac, fret not. Each port supports Thunderbolt 5, 4, and 3 for connecting accessories and peripherals. The same ports also support USB 4 V2, USB4, and USB3 devices along with USB displays. Sonnet notes that two of the Echo 13s downstream Thunderbolt ports, located on the rear of the unit, provide up to 15W each for charging and bus-powered devices. The third downstream port, sharing a front-location with the 140W upstream port, lends up to 60W of power for fast-charging the latest tablets and phones.Not to be forgotten are the Echo 13s four USB 3.2 Type-A Ports, three of which support 10Gbps and 7.5W of power, even when the computer is powered down. Sonnet Echo 13 AvailabilitySonnet plans to ship the Echo 13 Thunderbolt 5 SSD Dockwith 4TB SSD in limitedquantities this month, and in increased quantities in mid-March 2025. It will arrive at resellerpartners with an MSRP of$669.99. If you dont require as much storage, the 1TB and 2TB options will ship mid-March with an MSRP of $399.99 and $499.99 respectively.Ive been a big fan of Sonnets past hardware, especially their docks. I still regularly use its 20-port SuperDock (review), which is built like a tank and provides an insane amount of I/O. Needless to say, I cant wait to put the Echo 13 to the test with a Thunderbolt 5 Mac. What do you think? Sound off in the comments below.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

"They're posting Luigi like he's Beyonc."Pitch PerfectOn China's RedNote social network, alleged CEO killer Luigi Mangione has struck a chord.As folks on X-formerly-Twitter have documented, the so-called "TikTok refugees"preemptively rushing to Chinese social media ahead of the slated banning of the video app in the states are discovering that their China-based counterparts are super into the suspected killer of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson.Affectionately referred to as "Lulu" on the app, Mangione has seemingly become as much of a thirsted-after folk hero in China as he has in the US and though it's an immense topic with a lot to unpack, the Chinese healthcare system is itself a bit of a mess, where wealth and class transparently buy better care.As a fascinating side note: the app, which is called Xiaohongshu in Chinese and is sometimes referred to as "Little Red Book," was co-created by a Stanford-educated tycoon named Charlwin Mao. Nominative determinism strikes again even if the Mao in question worked at Bain Capital.Sino SympathyStill, messages of commiseration are resonating. In a video posted to RedNote that was later shared on X, a user who claims to have lived in the US for five years before returning to China explained why his countrymen "are touched by the story of Luigi.""It seems American's health system is becoming a tool for those giant companies to [strip] Americans," the user said. "Now in China, the government bears large shares of the medical expenses for us, and we only need to pay around, like, 100 US dollars per month but you guys are paying, like, a giant part of your monthly income.""I can't even imagine how anxious you guys are when you get sick, and that's not right," he continued. "You should have to feel safe and secure when you are the most vulnerable... and [that's] the basic responsibility for those healthcare insurance companies to bear as human beings.""I really feel for you guys," the user declared. "Yes, you have every right to fight for yourself at the end."For the stateside users flocking to RedNote and other Chinese apps, that solidarity seems welcome though it's anybody's guess if those apps won't get banned alongside TikTok.Share This Article

Time zones: EST (UTC -5), CST (UTC -6), MST (UTC -7), PST (UTC -8), AKST (UTC -9), HST (UTC -10)As a Senior Product Designer you will work alongside a small team of engineers, creatives, and project managers working on mobile apps that connect fans and collectors to the exciting world of Funko.This is a contract position.Your Superpowers in ActionDesign responsive websites and mobile apps for iOS and Android using the latest design trends and techniques, while adhering to platform-specific conventions and creating custom-tailored UI.Create scaleable design systems across layout, typography, color, iconography, and animation.Quickly iterate across various levels of fidelity.Creative thinker and compelling visual storyteller.Work on a mix of large and small projects in a highly collaborative, fast paced environment.Must-Have Superhero Gadgetry5+ years of relevant professional experience (agency or freelance).A portfolio that shows work you were directly responsible for.Expertise in both UX and visual design.Proficiency in responsive web design.Fluency in iOS and Android design patterns.Experience with Figma and Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop and Illustrator).Excellent visual, communication, and documentation skills.Nice to HaveExperience as a brand designer with strong graphic and typography design skills.Experience in motion design.Experience in designing and developing 3D interactive experiences.

2025 stretches ahead of us with plenty of opportunities, including a full schedule ofmeteor showers. They come around every year like clockwork and that means planning shooting star trips can be done months in advance. Here's a look at what's happening when, and how you can watch.Tips for watchingTo have the best odds of seeing the most meteors during any given shower, the first advice is to get as far away from the big city as logistically possible -- and that also applies to suburbanites. Light pollution is the enemy of space viewing and most meteor showers are barely visible in the suburbs, let alone a big city. From there, you'll want to find the radiant -- also known as the point from which the meteor shower appears to originate -- and then keep your eyes pointed in that direction. The moon's light can also be a negative factor, but since meteor showers occur on specific days, it's up to nature as to whether or not moonlight will affect viewing. A meteorite is seen streaking over Trona Pinnacles near Death Valley, CA during the annual Perseid Meteor Showers in August 2019. Bob Riha Jr./Getty ImagesQuadrantidsWhen:Through Jan. 16Peak date: Jan. 2 to 3Maximum meteor rate: 120 meteors per hourRadiant: The Big DipperThe New Year starts with a bang as Quandrantids peaks on Jan. 2 and 3. This is one of the largest meteor showers of the year, spawning upwards of 120 meteors per hour. These meteors come from the 2003 EH asteroid as the Earth drifts through its tail.Gamma NormidsWhen: Feb. 25 to March 28Peak date: March 14 to 15Maximum meteor rate: 6 meteors per hourRadiant: NormaGamma Normids is a minor meteor shower that appears toward the end of February and most of March. It comes courtesy of the C/1913 R1 (Crommelin) comet. This one is one of the less exciting showers of the year. Its radiant is the Norma constellation, which is in the Southern Hemisphere. However, avid skygazers can see some meteors on the horizon on a dark night during its peak in mid-March and potentially a few more in the intervening days and weeks. Most folks likely won't see anything but it's still there, tossing meteors.Lyrids The milky way and meteors of the April Lyrids annual meteor shower are seen in the night sky over Burg auf Fehmarn on the Baltic Sea island of Fehmarn, northern Germany, in 2018. Daniel Reinhardt/Getty ImagesWhen: Apr. 15 to Apr. 30Peak date: Apr. 21 to 22Maximum meteor rate: 18 meteors per hourRadiant: LyraThings pick up again in April with the Lyrids meteor shower. Its radiant is Lyra, which will rise out of the eastern sky every night during its run. This one is a little bigger than most, having up to 18 meteors per hour. Earth runs through the C/1861 G1 Thatcher comet every April to bring this shower to its citizens. Interestingly, meteors from Lyrids tend to not have trails but can produce some pretty bright fireballs.Eta AquariidsWhen: Apr. 20 to May 21Peak date: May 3 to 4Maximum meteor rate: 50 meteors per hourRadiant: AquariusThe 1P/Halley, famously known as Halley's Comet, is responsible for the Eta Aquariids, and it's the biggest meteor shower to occur during spring with up to 50 meteors per hour. The only downside is that its radiant, Aquarius, doesn't rise out of the southeastern sky until around 4 a.m. local time, meaning you'll have to wake up very early or stay up super late to catch it. On the plus side, the moon will have set by then, meaning the moon won't obstruct the view for this meteor shower.Alpha CapricornidsWhen: July 12 to Aug. 12Peak date: July 29 to 30Maximum meteor rate: 5 meteors per hourRadiant: CapricornusAlpha Capricornids is a minor meteor shower that comes from the 169P/NEAT comet. It's not a strong shower, but it is notable for producing some rather large fireballs. It's also equally visible in the Southern and Northern Hemispheres. The radiant for this one is Capricornus, which streaks through the south sky and will be visible all night during its peak. Fortunately, the moon won't be too full, so it won't obstruct the view too much.Southern delta AquariidsWhen: July 28 to Aug. 12Peak date: July 29 to 30Maximum meteor rate: 25 meteors per hourRadiant: AquariusSouthern delta Aquariids often overshadows the Alpha Capricornids. This meteor shower peaks early, just a day or two after it officially starts, and then tails off through mid-August. Its early peak puts it on the same day as Alpha Capricornids, so if you see a shooting star on July 29 or 30, it might have come from either one. The radiant for this one is Aquarius, which is right next to Capricornus, making the two showers a fine pairing. Researchers aren't 100% certain which comet gives us the Southern delta Aquariids, although the best guess right now is 96P/Machholz.Perseids Star trails and a meteor from the Perseid meteor shower are seen over Sutton Courtenay, a small village in Oxfordshire, in this undated image. William McCourt/Getty ImagesWhen: July 17 to Aug. 23Peak date: Aug. 12 to 13Maximum meteor rate: 100 meteors per hourRadiant: PerseusPerseids is one of the premier space events that takes place during the summer. It comes from the 109P/Swift-Tuttle comet and is one of the most consistently busy meteor showers of the year. Plus, it takes place over the summer, which is perfect meteor shower weather. The radiant is Perseus, which rises out of the northeastern sky relatively early in the evening and stays up all night. The only downside is that the moon will be almost full during Perseids' peak in 2025, making it more difficult to see the smaller meteors.Southern TauridsWhen: Sept. 23 to Nov. 4Peak date: Oct. 10 to 11Maximum meteor rate: 5 meteors per hourRadiant: TaurusSouthern Taurids is one of the longest-lasting meteor showers of the year lasting well over a month. It's not a particularly active meteor shower, but since it takes place during several other meteor showers, you may spot one of these while looking for another one. The 2P/Encke comet fuels this one and it peaks a couple of weeks away from Halloween. This one is paired with the Northern Taurids to make the Taurids meteor shower. However, they peak on different days so they're often listed as separate meteor showers.OrionidsWhen: Oct. 2 to Nov. 12Peak date: Oct. 22 to 23Maximum meteor rate: 20 meteors per hourRadiant: OrionOrionids is a reasonably active meteor shower that happens mostly during October. It also has the distinction of coming from the famous Halley's Comet just like the Eta Aquariids shower. Unlike Eta Aquariids, the Orionids come out of the Orion constellation, which rises out of the eastern sky in October. Also, the moon will be virtually new, so it'll have one of the darkest skies of any meteor shower this year.DraconidsWhen: Oct. 6 to Oct. 10Peak date: Oct. 8Maximum meteor rate: 10 meteors per hourRadiant: DracoDraconids is a minor meteor shower and the shortest one on the list, lasting for all of four days. It hails from the 21/P Giacobini-Zimmer comet and has a fairly decent peak at around 10 meteors per hour. The peak occurs just two days after it starts and then the meteor shower ends two days later. The radiant for Draconids is Draco, which is between the Big Dipper and Little Dipper, making it relatively easy to find in the night sky.Northern TauridsWhen: Oct. 13 to Dec. 1Peak date: Nov. 8 to 9Maximum meteor rate: 5 meteors per hourRadiant: TaurusNorthern Taurids is the other half of the Taurids meteor shower and this one lasts even longer, going from the middle of October all the way until December. It peaks about halfway through its run on Nov. 8, which is a few weeks later than its southern counterpart. Otherwise, the two are virtually identical. They are both fueled by the 2P/Encke comet and at their best produce around five meteors per hour. For now, researchers believe that this shower comes from a different segment of the Encke comet trail, which is why it's often listed separately from its southern cousin.LeonidsWhen: Nov. 3 to Dec. 2Peak date: Nov. 16 to 17Maximum meteor rate: 15 meteors per hourRadiant: LeoJust a few days after the Northern Taurids peaks, the Leonids shower will also peak. Created by the 55P/Tempel-Tuttle comet, Leonids will come from the Leo constellation, which rises in the eastern sky right around 2 a.m. local time for most of its run. This is a bigger meteor shower than the Taurids but a smaller shower than the Orionids. Since all four of them intersect during the first week of November, it may be tough to tell which meteor shower a shooting star comes from. This is especially true since Taurus, Leo, and Orion are all in the eastern sky at this time of year. Leonids often has fast, bright meteors that leave a trail, which may be the only way to differentiate a Leonids meteor from the other three showers.GeminidsWhen: Dec. 4 to Dec. 20Peak date: Dec. 14 to 15Maximum meteor rate: 120 meteors per hourRadiant: GeminiGeminids is one of the biggest meteor showers of the year, and it peaks less than two weeks away from Christmas. It's generated by the 3200 Phaethon comet and can show as many as 120 meteors per hour in the right conditions. Geminids is best known for its brighter, slower-moving meteors, making them easier to see in brighter areas like cities or suburbs. It takes place during the cold season, but it can put on quite a show if viewed from outside the big city.UrsidsWhen: Dec. 17 to Dec. 26Peak date: Dec. 22 to 23Maximum meteor rate: 10 meteors per hourRadiant: The Little DipperUrsids begins right after the peak of Geminids and continues until the day after Christmas. Since Geminids ends before Christmas, it is statistically likely that if you've ever watched a Christmas movie that has a shooting star, it likely came from Ursids. The shower peaks on the evening of Dec. 22 from the Little Dipper, which is readily visible in the night sky for most of the evening. Much like Draconids, it disappears almost as fast as it shows up, lasting only nine days in total.QuadrantidsWhen:: Dec. 12, 2025 to Jan. 12, 2026Peak date: Jan. 3 to 4, 2026Maximum meteor rate: 120 meteors per hourRadiant: The Big DipperThe year ends the same way it begins with the Quandrantids meteor shower. It starts in early December and wraps around to the New Year. Thus, while it does have the distinction of being the only meteor shower that occurs twice a year, the peak is always in the first few days of January. Otherwise, it's the same meteor shower as the Quadrantids listed above. So, we'll use this space to deliver a fun fact. Most meteor showers are fueled by comets, chunks of ice floating through the universe that leave long trails that, as Earth moves through them, create meteors. However, Quadrantids is fueled by 2003 EH, which is an asteroid and not a comet. Researchers believe that 2003 EH is potentially a comet that died out and became an asteroid.

Looking for trees thatll thrive near your TV or fuchsia flowers happy to bloom inside a bathroom? The best indoor plants, which weve rounded up here, prove that gardening doesnt have to be an open-air pursuit. Plus, bringing plants into your home offers benefits beyond adding a touch of green to your decor; research has shown that the presence of plants reduces stress, boosts productivity, and improves air quality by removing pollutants such as carbon monoxide, formaldehyde, and ammonia from the air. One study even found that participants with exposure to indoor plants took fewer sick days.Appreciate plants but swear you cant keep even a faux cactus alive? Fear not! Weve talked to plant pros to determine the best botanicals for different spaces (from cozy corners to rooms with little light) and rounded up some helpful plant care tips. So even if youre new to indoor gardening, heres some home-loving horticulture you can handle.What is the best soil for indoor plants?Choosing the right soil for your indoor plants depends on your watering habits and the overall humidity in your space, says Victor Castro, a plant expert with TheNurseryProjectUSA on Palmstreet, a live marketplace for plants. For homes with high humidity, opt for a chunky, well-draining soil mix. Ingredients like bark, perlite, and coarse sand are ideal for preventing overwatering and keeping roots aerated. In drier, warmer spaces, where soil tends to dry out quickly, a more moisture-retentive mix is best. Adding components like coco coir, peat moss, or vermiculite will help retain water without making the mix overly dense.Ultimately, its all about balance and making sure the soil holds enough moisture to sustain your plants between waterings while allowing excess water to drain so that the plants roots dont rot. Adjust your mix to suit both your watering routine and your indoor environment, and your plants will thrive, says Castro.How do you pick the right pot for indoor plants?This is essentially the first step in caring for your plant. The pot you choose to house your plant has a major impact on its health and appearance. But that doesnt mean you have to totally forgo aesthetics. Castro recommends keeping your plants in clear nursery pots, as these allow you to monitor root health and watering needs easily. Then you can place the nursery pot into a decorative pot of your choicethis way, you get both practicality and style.Drainage and size are other key components to consider in finding the right planter. Drainage holes are a must. No plant enjoys sitting in waterlogged soil, says Castro. For plants that like a drier environment, like succulents or cacti, terra-cotta pots are perfect because they wick away excess moisture. For tropical plants that need consistent humidity, plastic or ceramic pots help retain moisture better. In terms of size, Castro recommends choosing a pot just slightly larger than the plants root ball to avoid overwatering issues.When should I repot an indoor plant?All the love and care you shower onto your new plant means it will eventually outgrow its initial vessel and need repotting. Signs that its time to upgrade your pot include slowed growth (sometimes only small leaves appear, but no other new growth), roots that circle around the pot or grow through the bottom, and water draining through the pot quickly. Additionally, a plant thats outgrown its current home may become top heavy. Young plants might need repotting annually, but mature plants should only need it every few years.As for what time of year is best for repotting, late winter is ideal. That way, your plant will be all set with additional space for spring, which is the active growing season for most plants.Whats the best placement for indoor plants?Finding the perfect spot for your indoor plants comes down to understanding their light needs, says Jose Barreto, also a plant expert with TheNurseryProjectUSA. Bright, direct light lovers, like succulents, thrive right next to sunny windows. For plants like pothos or peace lilies, indirect light is idealplace them a few feet away from the window or use sheer curtains to soften the sunlight. Low-light plants, such as ZZ plants or snake plants, can flourish in shadier corners, making them great options for rooms with limited natural light. Find more information about each plants lighting needs below.In addition to lighting, Alfred Palomares of 1-800-Flowers.com points out that its important to consider temperature inside your home. The location of your heating and cooling vents will help determine where your plants live as well, as heating and cooling vents can dry out your greenery, he says. Likewise, if you live in a cold climate, its best to keep tropical plants away from drafty areas or doorways, where they may get hit with frigid temps.What indoor plants are safe for pets?Before introducing a new plant baby, its always a good idea to make sure it wont have an adverse effect on any fur babies in your home. Some varietiesincluding snake plants, pothos, ZZ plants, and peace liliesare toxic to cats and dogs and can be harmful to them if ingested. Pet-safe plants include cast iron, spider, Boston fern, lady palm, braided bamboo, and phalaenopsis orchid.Best low-maintenance indoor plantsCant seem to keep your plants alive? Even if youve never gotten the hang of life as a plant parent, you can still add beautiful botanicals to your home. I always recommend starting with a snake plant or pothostheyre nearly indestructible and perfect for beginners, Barreto says. For anyone who travels often and cant keep up with demanding watering schedules, Barreto has another recommendation. The ZZ plant is your go-toit can survive for weeks without water and still look stunning, he says.Snake plantSnake plants are great low-maintenance options, as they dont need watering too often and can thrive in lower light.Photo: FeelPic/Getty ImagesMost PopularArchitecture + Design9 Fascinating Buildings Carved Out of Mountains, Stones, and HillsBy Maya Chawla ArchitectureIn London Bridge, a Young Design Duo Craft an Elegant Pied--TerreBy Valentina RaggiInnovative Design13 Chairs That Changed the WorldBy Geoffrey MontesAppropriate for the lunar year of the snake, the snake plant (scientifically known as Dracaena trifasciata) has been named the Plant of the Year for 2025 by 1-800-Flower.com. This sleek, modern houseplant is perfect for plant parents who have little time to care for their green babies, says Palomares. Being easy to care for is one of the reasons we named it our plant of the year. These star stems survive in low light and only require watering when soil is thoroughly dryroughly every few weeks.PothosPothos plants are known for their resilience.Photo: jyu-akc/Getty ImagesFun fact: Pothos plant (Epipremnum aureum) got its nickname devils ivy because its nearly impossible to kill. Its also nearly impossible not to love, thanks to the variegated vines with dark green leaves streaked white or yellow that some pothos plants sport. And once you get the hang of handling this easy-peasy plant, you can easily propagate its clippings in soil, water, or moss to spread the love.ZZ plantZZ plants are are ideal low-maintenance indoor plants, so long as theyre out-of-reach of pets.Photo: Liudmila Chernetska/Getty ImagesMost PopularArchitecture + Design9 Fascinating Buildings Carved Out of Mountains, Stones, and HillsBy Maya Chawla ArchitectureIn London Bridge, a Young Design Duo Craft an Elegant Pied--TerreBy Valentina RaggiInnovative Design13 Chairs That Changed the WorldBy Geoffrey MontesLike snake plant, Barreto calls ZZ (Zamioculcas zamiifolia) practically unkillable, which is how it earned its eternal plant nickname. And though it doesnt ask for much (it can survive months without watering), ZZ does best with a little indirect light and well-draining soil.One important detail to note: ZZ plants are toxic to pets and people when ingested, so keep yours away from little ones and pets.Best low-light indoor plantsAll three plants mentioned abovesnake, pothos, and ZZdo well in low-light environments. (Thats part of their effortless charm.) According to Matt Slaymaker of Lively Root, the cast-iron plant is another excellent option. He says, This popular houseplant is loved by many because it does well in low-light conditions and is super easy to care for. Its best used as a simple foliage plant, bringing some green to your space. And Barreto is a fan of the Chinese evergreen for a splash of color. Its a stunning option, with endless varieties that tolerate low light like champions, he says.Cast-iron plantCast-iron plants can stretch up to three feet tall.Photo: Arkela/Getty ImagesThis laid-back botanical (Aspidistra elatior) not only does well in low light, it can also handle a range of temperatures and irregular watering. Fully mature, it maxes out at three feet tall and two feet wide. Its nontoxic, meaning its safe for homes with cats and dogs.Chinese evergreenThis plant can thrive in windowless offices.Photo: nzfhatipoglu/Getty ImagesMost PopularArchitecture + Design9 Fascinating Buildings Carved Out of Mountains, Stones, and HillsBy Maya Chawla ArchitectureIn London Bridge, a Young Design Duo Craft an Elegant Pied--TerreBy Valentina RaggiInnovative Design13 Chairs That Changed the WorldBy Geoffrey MontesHeres an ideal office plant. Chinese evergreen (Aglaonema commutatum) doesnt require natural light, doing just fine in fluorescent lighting. It also starts out small in stature and can easily be kept in a pot on a desktop. But if you do place it in medium light, Chinese evergreen may even develop peace-lily-like blooms.Best air-purifying indoor plantsSpider plants are amazing at removing toxins like formaldehyde and are incredibly easy to care for, says Castro. Peace lilies pull double duty. They filter out several pollutants and add a touch of elegance with their graceful white flowers. For a tropical vibe, Castro likes Boston ferns: Theyre fantastic for cleaning the air and adding a bit of humidity to your space, which is great for both plants and people. The snake plant (mentioned above) is another powerful air purifier, in addition to being low maintenance.Spider plantSpider plants are known for propagating easily.Photo: vadimgouida/Getty ImagesWant air-cleansing benefits and gorgeously green variegated, white-striped leaves? Try a spider plant (Chlorophytum comosum). These plants are generally compact, making them ideal for a shelf or hanging basket. In return, give this non-toxic plant bright indirect sunlight and a thorough watering whenever the top inch of soil feels dry.Peace lilyThe average peace lily lifespan is three to five years, but they can survive for a decade or longer.Photo: Anna Blazhuk/Getty ImagesMost PopularArchitecture + Design9 Fascinating Buildings Carved Out of Mountains, Stones, and HillsBy Maya Chawla ArchitectureIn London Bridge, a Young Design Duo Craft an Elegant Pied--TerreBy Valentina RaggiInnovative Design13 Chairs That Changed the WorldBy Geoffrey MontesThis multifaceted flowering plant could land in most of the categories in this roundup. Peace lily (Spathiphyllum wallisii) purifies the air, has a preference for low light, and doesnt require much work. They can be a bit of a drama queen if you miss a watering, says Slaymaker, but dont worry; its all a show and theyll perk back up once you give them a splash.Boston fernBoston ferns thrive in humidity, making them a smart pick for the bathroom.Photo: OlgaMiltsova/Getty ImagesThe Boston fern [Nephrolepis exaltata] is a gorgeous, lush green fern that is known for its purifying abilities, says Slaymaker. This plant loves humidity too, so its perfect for bathrooms. In fact, Boston ferns also restore humidity to the air, making them ideal for anyone who suffers from a dry nose, throat, or skin. Just be sure to give them regular waterings and bright, indirect light.Best large indoor plantsIf youre lucky enough to have space for a big statement plant, Barreto recommends a monstera deliciosa. Its a true showstopper, with its massive, iconic leaves that instantly elevate any room, he says. For a bit of drama, he also suggests the fiddle leaf fig because its bold and beautiful, though he does point out that it requires a little extra TLC to thrive. Slaymaker is also a fan of the fiddle leaf fig, which he calls a perfect indoor tree, as well as lady palm. Lady palm is a great indoor shrub tree with a really cool tropical feel, he says. Its a houseplant classic.Monstera deliciosaMonster deliciosas broad, statement-making leaves have made it a favorite among interior designers.Photo: Tatiana Lavrova/Getty ImagesMost PopularArchitecture + Design9 Fascinating Buildings Carved Out of Mountains, Stones, and HillsBy Maya Chawla ArchitectureIn London Bridge, a Young Design Duo Craft an Elegant Pied--TerreBy Valentina RaggiInnovative Design13 Chairs That Changed the WorldBy Geoffrey MontesIts usually flowers that elicit oohs and ahs, but not so with monstera. On this sizable plant, the heart-shaped leaves with eye-catching cutouts are the main attraction. (Those cutouts are what earned monstera the nickname Swiss cheese plant.) To keep those lovely leaves lush, give monstera bright light, regular watering, and indoor temperatures between 60 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit.Fiddle leaf figIndoors, a fiddle leaf fig can grow over five feet tall.Photo: Ekaterina Demidova/Getty ImagesFrom the rainforests of western Africa right to your living room, fiddle leaf fig (Ficus lyrata) infuses any space with a touch of the tropical. In addition to giving it bright, indirect light and a deep watering only when the top inch of soil is dry, rotate your tree once a month to keep it growing straight (otherwise itll lean toward the light). Every few months, wipe the leaves with a damp cloth to remove dust and maximize the plants photosynthesis potential.Lady palmThis plant is known for its elegant, fan-shaped leaves.Photo: Getty ImagesMost PopularArchitecture + Design9 Fascinating Buildings Carved Out of Mountains, Stones, and HillsBy Maya Chawla ArchitectureIn London Bridge, a Young Design Duo Craft an Elegant Pied--TerreBy Valentina RaggiInnovative Design13 Chairs That Changed the WorldBy Geoffrey MontesLike monstera deliciosa and fiddle leaf fig, lady palm (Rhapis excelsa) is another great way to get a lot of bang for your buck in terms of foliage. Care instructions for the fiddle leaf fig are similar to those of the other two plants, including occasional misting (usually once a week), especially in dry conditions. These trees love a humid environment.Best small indoor plantsWhen space is limited, stick to indoor plants that can easily live on a tabletop or windowsill. Palomares recommends braided bamboo and phalaenopsis orchid. Braided bamboo is known for prosperity and luck, he says. According to feng shui principles, itll bring positive energy to the space it lives in. In addition to blooms in vibrant pinks and purples, another perk of phalaenopsis orchids is that they do well without a ton of lightunlike many other species of orchid, per Palomares.Braided bambooThis plant is considered a symbol of good luck in some cultures.Photo: Elizabeth Fernandez/Getty ImagesAlso called lucky bamboo, braided bamboo (Dracaena sanderiana) has long been seen as a symbol of good fortune in some Asian cultures. Its also popular for its sculptural appealpros train the stalks to grow in braids, spirals, and even heart shapes. To make sure your bamboo thrives, give it bright, indirect light, water every 7 to 10 days, and well-draining potting mix soil.Phalaenopsis orchidOrchids are generally known as a more finicky indoor plant.Photo: Nadya So/Getty ImagesOrchids have a reputation for being difficult to deal with, but phalaenopsis (Phalaenopsis amabilis) is one of the most easygoing typesand with proper care, it can live for up to 15 years. While most low-light plants prefer a north-facing window, the phalaenopsis orchid grows better when displayed near a shaded southern or eastern-facing window, Palomares says. Be sure to check the color of its leaves. If they start to darken, it means the plant needs more light.