Google has launched a new feature called Identity Check for supported Android devices that locks sensitive settings behind biometric authentication when outside of trusted locations."When you turn on Identity Check, your device will require explicit biometric authentication to access certain sensitive resources when you're outside of trusted locations," Google said in a post announcing the move.In doing so, biometric authentication will be required for the following actions -Access saved passwords and passkeys with Google Password ManagerAutofill passwords in apps from Google Password Manager, except in ChromeChange screen lock, like PIN, pattern, and passwordChange biometrics, like Fingerprint or Face UnlockRun a factory resetTurn off Find My DeviceTurn off any theft protection featuresView trusted placesTurn off Identity CheckSet up a new device with your current deviceAdd or remove a Google AccountAccess Developer optionsIdentity Check is also designed to turn on enhanced protection for Google Accounts to prevent unauthorized individuals from taking control of any Google Account signed in on the device.The feature is currently limited to Google's own Pixel phones with Android 15 and eligible Samsung Galaxy phones running One UI 7. It can be enabled by navigating to Settings > Google > All services > Theft protection > Identity Check.The disclosure comes as Google has been adding a steady stream of security features to secure devices against theft, such as Theft Detection Lock, Offline Device Lock, and Remote Lock.Google also said it has rolled out its artificial intelligence-powered Theft Detection Lock to all Android devices running Android 10 and later across the world, and that it's working with the GSMA and industry experts to combat mobile device theft by sharing information, tools and prevention techniques.The development also follows the launch of the Chrome Web Store for Enterprises, allowing organizations to create a curated list of extensions that can be installed in employees' web browsers and minimize the risk of users installing potentially harmful or unvetted add-ons.Last month, a spear-phishing campaign targeting Chrome extension developers was found to have inserted malicious code to harvest sensitive data, such as API keys, session cookies, and other authentication tokens from websites such as ChatGPT and Facebook for Business.The supply chain attack is said to have been active since at least December 2023, French cybersecurity company Sekoia said in a new analysis published this week."This threat actor has specialised in spreading malicious Chrome extensions to harvest sensitive data," the company said, describing the adversary as persistent."At the end of November 2024, the attacker shifted his modus operandi from distributing his own malicious Chrome extensions via fake websites to compromising legitimate Chrome extensions by phishing emails, malicious OAuth applications, and malicious code injected into compromised Chrome extensions."Found this article interesting? Follow us on Twitter and LinkedIn to read more exclusive content we post.

The house features a stepped faade of London stock brick and precast stone with ornamental angled brick detailing. The upper storeys are recessed to align with the front elevations of adjacent terraced houses, while the second-floor volume is clad in undulating bronze-finished aluminium panels.The existing garden wall has been extended along the street conceal to shield the main entrance. A black timber door let into this opens onto a small courtyard paved with ceramic tiles, providing a threshold to the house. Extensive glazing on the ground floor allows views through the house to the rear garden. The first floor cantilevers out, creating a canopy over part of the courtyard. Source:Alex DormonTo protect two mature trees near the site, Mailen Design collaborated with an arboriculturist, influencing the layout and foundations to avoid disturbing the trees root systems. The front courtyard also provides space for the branches of a mature lime tree in a neighbouring garden.AdvertisementInside, the house features bright living spaces with exposed concrete and oak joinery. The stone paving from the courtyard continues into the entrance and a large rooflight brings in natural light. An open-plan kitchen, dining and living area occupies the ground floor, with floor-to-ceiling glazing opening onto a tiered garden. An oak staircase leads to the first floor, which includes two bedrooms and a family bathroom, while the main bedroom with walk-in wardrobe and en-suite bathroom is situated on the second floor. Source:Alex DormonArchitects viewLee Terrace is an example of efficiency and creativity within the challenging conditions of the historic Blackheath conservation area. This new-build family home balances modern functionality with sensitivity to the areas architectural heritage, stringent local planning and townscape requirements, and protects the two mature trees on and adjacent to the site. We have maximised the internal volume quality by strategically positioning glazing to bring in natural light, creating an airy, light-filled and fluid internal floorspace that feels spacious and connected to the outdoors.Ben Mailen, project architect, Mailen Design Source:Mailen DesignGround floor planProject dataProject size 114.2 m2Start on site October 2022Completion June 2024Client PrivateArchitect Mailen DesignMain contractor Martins BuildersStructural engineer Morph StructuresBuilding control London Building Control

Dublin and Manchester-based Harcourt Architects has completed a council housing scheme in Dundalk, Ireland, using 3D construction printing the first project of its type in the world to meet internationally recognised technical standards.The system, with its rebar-free, load-bearing double-cavity concrete walls, allows schemes to be built significantly faster than conventional methods.The trio of three-bedroomed houses in Grange Close were completed in just 132 days. Developed and delivered with the practices emerging sister company Harcourt Technologies Ltd (HTL), the process shaved at least a third off the time required to construct the 330m project compared with traditional construction methods (estimated at about 200 days).AdvertisementUsing a COBOD 3D printer, each layer of concrete takes 18 minutes to cure before the next one can be added. The compressive strength of the walls is understood to be roughly five times stronger than traditional blockwork construction. The printer is operated by a team of three, and can print sections of wall up to 10m in height.The homes, which were built and funded by Louth County Council, have now received building control approval and comply with the rigorous ISO/ASTM 52939:2030 standard for additive construction. Each 110m unit cost about 205,000 to complete including traditional roof structures and standard internal and external finishes. But the team expects that price to reduce.Harcourt Architects three directors Justin Kinsella, Richard Mullin and Paul Kelly met while studying architecture at the University of Dundee. Their strong interest in construction technology and innovation led them to set up HTL in 2021.The three say they are already in discussions with both social housing providers and private developers in the UK to build more 3D homes and hope the completion of the Grange Close houses will act as the catalyst for scaling up the deployment of the technology.AdvertisementMeanwhile HTL, in partnership with Creagh Concrete, has been appointed to the Social Housing Emerging Disruptors (SHED 4) Framework, a 100 million initiative which aims to reduce costs and improve efficiency by connecting start-up, small and medium, voluntary and large scale innovators to public sector clients and social landlords.According to Mullin, the 3D-printed concrete currently saves roughly 20 per cent in embodied carbon compared with concrete block construction.The system uses locally sourced constituents in its ready-mix concrete and replaces ordinary Portland cement with locally available supplementary cementitious materials such as GGBS (ground granulated blast-furnace slag).The accuracy of the printing process greatly reduces waste, he says. The printer itself is modular and can be taken to site on a single lorry, in effect bringing the factory to site. This greatly reduces the number of deliveries to site, storage required on site and the carbon footprint associated with off-site facilities. The mass concrete walls provide exceptional air-tightness. Source:Harcourt Technologies Ltd2025-01-24Richard Waitecomment and share

Looking for the most recentregular Connections answers? Click here for today's Connections hints, as well as our daily answers and hints for The New York Times Mini Crossword, Wordle and Strands puzzles.Today'sConnections: Sports Editionplays a fun trick on players. There are so many food terms, from hotdog to peppers to Cracker Jack to nutmeg, and yet not all of them represent food terms. Someone on the NYT puzzle staff must have a long list of food words with other meanings that they toss in whenever they can. Read on for hints and answers for today's Connections: Sports Edition puzzle.For now, the game is in beta, which means the Times is testing it out to see if it's popular before adding it to the site's Games app. You can play it daily for now for free and then we'll have to see if it sticks around.Read more: NYT Has a Connections Game for Sports Fans. I Tried ItHints for today's Connections: Sports Edition groupsHere are four hints for the groupings in today's Connections: Sports Edition puzzle, ranked from the easiest yellow group to the tough (and sometimes bizarre) purple group.Yellow group hint: Frosty malts, too.Green group hint: Bragging.Blue group hint: Honored footballers.Purple group hint:Ted Lasso guys know these.Answers for today's Connections: Sports Edition groupsYellow group: Concession stand snacks.Green group: Show off.Blue group: Hall of Fame pass rushers.Purple group:Soccer skill moves.Read more: Wordle Cheat Sheet: Here Are the Most Popular Letters Used in English WordsWhat are today's Connections: Sports Edition answers? The completed NYT Connections: Sports Edition puzzle for Jan. 24, 2025. NYT/Screenshot by CNETThe yellow words in today's ConnectionsThe theme is concession stand snacks. The four answers are Cracker Jack, peanuts, popcorn and pretzel.The green words in today's ConnectionsThe theme is show off. The four answers are flaunt, grandstand, hotdog and showboat.The blue words in today's ConnectionsThe theme is Hall of Fame pass rushers. The four answers are Peppers, Strahan, Ware and White.The purple words in today's ConnectionsThe theme is soccer skill moves. The four answers are nutmeg, Olimpico, rabona and stepover.

Our Experts Written by Mercey Livingston 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 Why You Can Trust CNET 16171819202122232425+ Years of Experience 14151617181920212223 Hands-on Product Reviewers 6,0007,0008,0009,00010,00011,00012,00013,00014,00015,000 Sq. Feet of Lab Space How we test CNETs expert staff reviews and rates dozens of new products and services each month, building on more than a quarter century of expertise.Table of Contents Our Picks Best kettlebell overall Ziva Premium Virgin Rubber Solid Cast Steel Kettlebell View details $32 at Amazon View details Best kettlebells for beginners Best Choice Products Three-Piece Kettlebell Weight Set View details $45 at Amazon View details Best kettlebells for experienced lifters Apex Adjustable Heavy-Duty Kettlebell View details $52.5 at Amazon View details Best vinyl coated kettlebell Powert Vinyl-Coated Cast-Iron Kettlebell Weight View details $13 at Amazon View details Best high-end kettlebell JaxJox KettlebellConnect Adjustable Smart Kettlebell (Update: Out of stock) View details See at Best Buy View details Table of Contents The standard dumbbell is an important part of any home gym setup, but an often overlooked option is the kettlebell. Like dumbbells, these come in varying weights, but thanks to the handle design, they open a whole new range of motion, kettlebell exercises, as we call them.Just one traditional kettlebell can be a versatile workout tool for the home gym and is often used in fitness and conditioning programs like CrossFit. The fancier adjustable kettlebells are useful as space savers and, in some ways, time.But kettlebells can add variety and challenge to your workout routine, whether you're looking to build strength in your core muscles and glutes, get in some form of cardio or a combination of both cardio workouts and strength training."The kettlebell is probably the most underrated piece of equipment in the gym," Lauren Kanski, a certified personal trainer and founding coach at the fitness app Ladder,previously told CNET. "The way the bell is shaped allows you to train power, endurance and strength all in one little piece of iron."Kettlebells are not the same as your average set of dumbbells, so before you buy one, consider what weight you need for your kettlebell exercise and check out the list below for our picks on the best kettlebell options for 2025.What is the best kettlebell overall?The best kettlebell is the Ziva Premium Virgin Rubber Solid Cast Steel Kettlebell. Its weight ranges and style make it versatile for the advanced and for beginners.Best kettlebells of 2025 $32 at Amazon The Ziva premium kettlebell comes in a wide variety of weight increments (from 5 to 50 pounds) making it a great quality kettlebell for beginners or more advanced exercisers. Working out at home and worried about damaging your floors? This kettlebell has a rubber coating so you don't have to worry about slamming it down too hard between sets during your kettlebell workout. $45 at Amazon $45 at Walmart This kettlebell set is great for beginners since it comes with three lighter kettlebell choices (weighing 5, 10 and 15 pounds). If you're new to working out, you probably aren't sure exactly how much weight you can handle yet, so you need size options. With this kettlebell set, you'll have multiple weights to experiment with when you exercise. Plus you get a weight rack to store them on. $52.5 at Amazon $52.5 at Walmart This adjustable cast iron kettlebell is a great pick for advanced exercisers or those who already lift weights and want to be able to progress with their kettlebell weight quickly. The kettlebell handle on its own is 15 pounds and it comes with different weight options that let you adjust it up to 50 pounds. It doesn't look like your classic, round kettlebell and this cast-iron kettlebell is not coated in vinyl or rubber, but it will satisfy the needs of someone looking for an advanced kettlebell with no frills when doing a kettlebell squat, kettlebell lifting, kettlebell deadlift or other kettlebell training moves. $13 at Amazon Most standard kettlebell styles are cast iron kettlebell models, so if you don't love the idea of iron kettlebells or that metal feel on your hands and want more grip, try a coated kettlebell for your kettlebell workout. This kettlebell from Powert has a coated handle and the base is covered in vinyl, making it less susceptible to rust or corrosion in addition to a different grip feel.

Every week, hundreds of artists share their work on the Blender Artists forum. I'm putting some of the best work in the spotlight in a weekly post here on BlenderNation.Source

Tata Electronics has acquired a 60% controlling stake in the Indian arm of Apple assembly partner, Pegatron, as the conglomerate expands its iPhone manufacturing capacity in the country.Taiwan-based Pegatron operates an iPhone production plant near Chennai in Indias sourthern state of Tamil Nadu. The deal comes less than a year after Tata Electronics acquired smartphone assembly company Wistrons Indian business. Pegatron and Tata did not disclose the financial terms of the deal, but Tata said the acquisition fits into its strategy of growing its manufacturing footprint in the country.We look forward to a new era of AI, digital and technology-led manufacturing as we bring up these new facilities and expand our operations in India, Randhir Thakur, CEO & MD of Tata Electronics, said in a statement.Tata, which began assembling iPhones in India just last year, is quickly emerging as one of Apples most important partners in Asia as the tech giant works to expand its manufacturing base outside of China.More to follow.

ZDNET's key takeaways Jmgo's N1S Ultimate 4K projector is available now for $2,099 at Amazon.It features astounding color and brightness, and is particularly portable.The case won't win any durability awards, and it needs a soundbar to really sound cinematic. more buying choices Last September, laser TV manufacturer Jmgo released its 2024 flagship model, theN1S Ultimate 4K -- the third in the N1 series. It comes with several upgrades from previous models, which you'll notice as a discerning viewer of video quality.Initially retailing for $2,799, you can currently find it onAmazon andJmgo's site for $2,099. If you're considering a new purchase for your home theater, how does the N1S Ultimate stack up to TVs in the same price range?Also:This Samsung projector is secretly the best gaming console you can buyI don't mean to compare apples and guavas here; projectors and TVs are in wholly different metaphorical bushels (although inching closer together). If you want to go big, though, you can find exceptional quality in the N1S while massively magnifying your screen size -- if you have room for it in your home. details View at Target Assuming you're ready to make a purchase now, what can $2,100 get you? The top two TVs that come to mind are both 75-inch screens made by tech giants in a different league: the Samsung QN90D and the Sony Bravia 7 Mini LED.Both these TVs have amazing displays and, by nature, their picture quality has an intrinsic advantage over most projectors. The thing is, the N1S Ultimate can blow up its projection to a staggering 180 inches, and still look incredible.Superb sharpness, brightness, and color Chris Bayer/ZDNETWith 3,500 ANSI lumens, the N1S maintains its brightness without compromising its 1600:1 FOFO contrast ratio and 110% BT.2020 gamut coverage. I saw this first-hand, noting its vivid coloration and detail while testing on UHD footage of birds, coral reefs, and big jungle cats. With 4K content, individual feathers, scales, and hairs were discernible even from 14 feet away with a 150-inch projection.The brightness intensity of the N1S adjusts automatically based on the lighting in its environment, but as with many projectors, you'll get the best results when running it in a dim room. During my testing in the dedicated viewing area of our lab, I modulated the rheostat of our ambient ceiling LEDs to see how truly ambient light affected the N1S's picture. As it turns out, it didn't affect it much at all.In that low-light environment, dark scenes featured deep blacks and detailed shadows -- not equivalent to that of an OLED screen of course, but convincing enough. Simply shutting the door to the testing room so no exterior light could creep in made a notable difference in whether the projection's full border was crisp and visible.The N1S Ultimate employs a 0.47-inch digital micromirror device (DMD) chip with extended pixel resolution (XPR) technology to upscale 1080p resolution to 2160p, translating to a beautiful picture even when watching the 1998 throwback "Rush Hour". The only place I noticed fuzziness or halo was around text (especially white text), such as on the menu screens. The N1S Ultimate is equipped with high-resolution CMOS cameras and intelligent features like Smart Object Avoidance and Smart Eye Protection that help prevent being blinded by walking in front of the lens. It also offers Lossless Zoom and a Smart Wall Color Adaptation feature, which could prove highly useful in established viewing areas, like a basement or living room.No focus and keystone adjustment required Out of the box, I was pleasantly surprised by how quickly the N1S automatically adjusted its focus and keystone. With multiple time-of-flight (ToF) sensors running on the Jmgo-developed Microstructure Adaptive Laser Control (MALC 2.0, in this case) and triple-color laser optics, I've never seen a more instantly appreciable picture quality from a projector.Loading times were speedy with the N1S being powered by a MediaTek MT9629 processor, 2GB of RAM, and 32GB of storage. Those advanced ToF sensors, by the way, also allow for viewing Blue-Ray 3D videos. Jmgo even has abundle option available that includes a set of rechargeable "Active 3D" shutter glasses.Also:This small 4K projector is worthy of replacing your TV - and gets plenty bright for its sizeNo matter where I placed it within its prescribed range (about 5 to 16 feet) and regardless of its lateral position in relation to the screen wall, the N1S immediately produced a perfect 16:9 frame that assumed the dimensions of its available throw space.There was no visible skew to the image frame, and no futzing around with settings to get a good picture. Being able to simply point and swivel a projector to get this result is partly what puts the N1S in its premium price range. Just note that the N1S Ultimate is not a UST projector. You'll need at least five feet between the unit and your screen or wall, but you can push it as far back as almost 16 feet for a 180-inch screen throw.Set up, portability, and form factorThe N1S is dense but extremely portable, and quite the looker. I don't hesitate to name it the prettiest projector I've reviewed. I like its two-tone dark grey aesthetic and sleek, elegant, simple design. It blends in just fine with any modern dcor. Its out-of-the-box gimbal construction makes it a breeze to set up and swiftly find your best angle.The base hinge on the Jmgo N1S Ultimate can swivel vertically 135 degrees and it has a turntable at the bottom for horizontal orientation should you affix it to a stand. However, no affixing is required: any tabletop will do, as I found out. If you're inclined to aim the lens at the ceiling, this worked fine in my testing; but if your ceiling has a popcorn or comb texture, you might get different results.If you want the best audio, do this The N1S carrying case is bulky, but quite cool. Chris Bayer/ZDNETStreaming content up to Wi-Fi 6 during testing, I watched shows on YouTube, Prime Video, and Netflix (which are built-in options on the remote). Linking the N1S to Google TV, I should mention, makes for speedy access to an array of apps. And if you happen to misplace your remote, Jmgo offers a complementary app for use on both Android and iOS.As mentioned above, the visuals on the N1S Ultimate were impressive when cast up to 150 inches. Colors are rich, lumens are bright, and contrast is impressive, especially in a dark room. As for sound quality, though, I found its two 10-watt speakers with Dolby Audio and DTS to be adequate but not ideal for the price point. Volume isn't a problem so much as clarity.Also:I changed these 3 settings on my projector for the best picture qualityThemuch cheaperYaber T2 Plus, for example, retained a pronounced clarity at high volume, whereas the N1S yielded some distortion. I might call the sound "borderline uncomfortable" when cranked up -- a bit spacey and smothered -- although it isloud. Without a doubt, the addition of an external speaker or soundbar would do it great justice.That's an easy fix because on the backside of the N1S Ultimate, you'll find an HDMI 2.1 eARC port for that purpose. That's in addition to another HDMI 2.1 port, a USB 2.0 port, and a 3.5mm jack, covering (most of) your peripheral and gaming needs.ZDNET's buying adviceGrowing up with parents who reminded me that money doesn't grow on trees, I'm always concerned about the return on investment (ROI) for any product -- especially one that I recommend to others.The JmgoN1S Ultimate is wellworth the price if you're able to take full advantage of your wall space/screening area. Its triple-laser projection is on time with spectacular detail, exquisite color, and exceptional brightness. Take advantage of the price reduction while you can.Jmgo N1S Ultimate tech specsTechnologyDLP (0.47" DMD) w XPRDisplayed Resolution3840 x 2160Brightness3,500 ANSI lumens (2,600 peak lumens)Light SourceRGB triple laserContrast1,600:1Zoom Lens RatioFixedLens ShiftNoLamp Life30,000 HrsSound System10w x2 stereoHDRHDR10, HLGFeatured reviews

(Photo by Josh Hedges/Zuffa LLC/Zuffa LLC via Getty Images)Zuffa LLC via Getty ImagesNo one seems to be impressed with UFC welterweight/middleweight Kevin Holland these days.A week after Holland embarrassed himself as a guest on the Jaxxon Podcast by disrespecting UFC legend Quinton Rampage Jackson and subsequently losing to Reinier de Ridder at UFC 311, Hollands peers havent stopped slamming him for his limited skills and approach.Former UFC middleweight champion Robert Whittaker discussed Hollands loss to RDR on his MMArcade podcast.Hes so average, Whittaker said. What do you want me to say, dude? Like he just, time and time again, the same thing keeps happening. The same thing; I dont know what else I can say.Holland has lost his last two fights, four of his last five, and six of his last nine. Without question, the 32-year-old is in a rough patch. It appears theres a very simple game plan to beat Holland at middleweight, and thats to take him down and overpower him with wrestling.INGLEWOOD, CALIFORNIA - JANUARY 18: Reinier de Ridder of the Netherlands reacts after his victory by ... [+] submission over Kevin Holland of the United States in a middleweight fight during UFC 311 at Intuit Dome on January 18, 2025 in Inglewood, California. (Photo by Harry How/Getty Images)Getty ImagesThats exactly what RDR did when he made very quick work of Holland in the first round of their clash at UFC 311. RDR wasnt threatened at any point during the fight. Similarly, Roman Dolidze took Holland down and caused a rib injury that forced the latter to quit on his stool.MORE FOR YOUThe best weight class for Holland appears to be welterweight, but it seems he doesnt want to cut weight and prefers to fight at 185 pounds. Unfortunately, he just doesnt appear to be strong or skilled enough to deal with the best fighters in that division.Former UFC champion TJ Dillashaw was especially critical of Holland and his approach. During the UFC 311 recap episode of the Jaxxon Podcast, Dillashaw didnt hold back his criticism of Holland.Hes entertaining and hes fun, Dillashaw said. I heard him in here talking when he was saying he doesnt care about being champion. Theres too much politics. Im like, alright dude, thats just an excuse because youll never be a champion. Hell never be a champion, and I promise you that.Dillashaw wasnt done. He went in on the holes in Hollands ground game and his questionable work ethic and commitment.He sat here and said that he doesnt give a s###, Dillashaw added. Are you going to be a champion if you dont care? No. Hes talking about bringing training partners in and going home and smoking weed. Just sitting here and listening to him talk, he doesnt have the mindset for it, hes just happy being on TV. I think its too much work for him.Well see if Holland is able to rebound in his next fight. If he doesnt get a win soon, hell find himself looking for another promotion. UFC President Dana White likes Holland, but probably not enough to allow him to stay on the roster if this losing streak continues much longer.

Imagination is more than just a tool for creativity; its a transformative force that can revitalize ... [+] relationships.gettyEven in the most successful relationships, there are moments when love is testedwhen lifes challenges and uncertainties threaten the precious bond youve created. While countless perspectives exist on how to make a relationship last, one essential yet often overlooked ingredient is imagination.The imagination effect refers to how imagining scenarios or specific outcomes can enhance understanding, creativity and problem-solving in real life. By mentally simulating possibilities, couples can uncover new insights and perspectives that might otherwise remain hidden.For instance, reading a book is an exercise in stepping into the lives of others and viewing the world through a lens different from your own, often with the help of your imagination.Similarly, in relationships, the imagination effect allows partners to approach challenges with greater empathy, envision possibilities beyond their immediate reality and find creative solutions to conflicts.Here are three ways the imagination effect can enhance your relationship.MORE FOR YOU1. Imagining Yourself In Your Partners ShoesWe often fall in love with our own point of view. It feels familiar, justified and sometimes even undeniably right. This can make it difficult to understandor even considerwhere someone else might be coming from, especially in moments of disagreement.However, imagination can serve as a bridge, helping us step outside our own narrative and into our partners inner world. It allows us to pause and ask: What might they be thinking or feeling? Why might this situation look different from their perspective? This mental exercise does not mean you abandon your own feelings, but rather that you expand your understanding to include theirs.A 2020 study published in Journal of Family Psychology alsoPerspective-taking is the ability to understand and consider another persons thoughts and point of view.Couples can also try reflective exercises like role reversal conversations, where each partner uses their imagination to speak from the others perspective, to describe their feelings and thoughts. Journaling can also be a powerful tool, as writing down a situation from your partners perspective can help uncover insights you may not have considered.Additionally, simple habits like asking clarifying questions instead of making assumptions (e.g., Can you help me understand what youre feeling?) can help build healthier communication.When both partners make an effort to step into each others shoes, they create a relationship built on empathy and mutual respect. While it may not come naturally at first, this shift in perspective can transform differences into opportunities for deeper connection.2. Imagining Positive Outcomes In ConflictsDisagreements or challenges in relationships can sometimes make you feel stuck, as if theres no way forward. Its easy to fall into a mindset of hopelessness, where issues start to feel insurmountable and the gap between partners feels impossible to bridge. However, imagination offers a powerful tool to shift that mindset and help find common ground.When you imagine a shared future or a resolution to a conflict, you are mentally exploring positive possibilities and envisioning solutions. A 2024 study published in the Journal of Social and Personal Relationships suggests that this practice, known as mental contrasting, is a highly effective way to manage conflict in romantic relationships.Visualizing a positive outcome can reframe the situation, moving it from one of confrontation to one of collaboration. Ask yourself: What would a compromise look like here? What is one thing we both want that we can work toward together?Using ones imagination in this context also means choosing to see the potential in each other and the relationship. When faced with challenges, rather than assuming that things will never improve, try imagining a positive outcome. This hopeful shift can create a sense of momentum, encouraging both partners to take proactive steps toward finding a solution.Research published in Social and Personality Psychology Compass explains that people often get defensive during conflicts because they feel their identity or beliefs are being threatened. This defensiveness makes it hard for them to listen to or accept different perspectives, which can keep the conflict going, even if it could be easily resolved.Researchers suggest that to overcome this, individuals need to be more open to new ideas, especially when they feel threatened. One way to do this is by changing how they think about the situationreframing their own perspective in a way that reduces their defensiveness, and by engaging in self-affirmation to preserve their sense of self-worth. This approach makes them more willing to communicate and resolve conflict.3. Imagining Novelty And Taking Risks TogetherWhen we think about taking risks or trying something new, the fear of uncertainty often holds us back. However, it takes imagination to envision the potential benefits of these experiences and to make the leap of faith easier.For instance, when you and your partner think about trying something new, whether its an adventurous trip or a life-changing decision about your careers or relationship, imagining positive outcomes can motivate you both to take that risk.Imagination helps move the focus away from the fear of failure and onto the excitement of the journey. It can also be a powerful tool to break you out of a monotonous routinerelationships can sometimes feel stagnant if partners fall into predictable patterns. In such cases, using imagination to explore new experiences can breathe new life into a relationship.Research published in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology suggests that excitement and novelty seem to have an important effect on relationship dynamics and quality, and activities with these elements help partners bond in ways that promote positive interaction.Researchers suggest that exciting experiences, rather than just positive behaviors, may be key to sustaining relationship quality, especially for couples experiencing reinforcement erosion (when partners no longer find the usual rewards in their relationship satisfying). In this context, some variation is essential in preventing the relationship from falling into an unfulfilling routine.At its core, imagination invites you to step into a space of possibility, where you and your partner are no longer bound by the constraints of the past or the present. By seeing beyond immediate circumstances, you empower yourselves to shape an inspiring future together. Rather than relying on what is, you actively design what could be.Ultimately, imagination allows you to create a new narrative for your relationshipone that is constantly evolving and responsive to both your desires. By embracing this mindset, you dont just strengthen your relationship; you build something that is uniquely yours.Are you interested in knowing how satisfied you truly are in your relationship? Take this science-backed test to find out: Relationship Satisfaction Scale