• Buyer beware: Asus' Q-Release Slim feature is reportedly damaging GPUs like the RTX 5090
    www.techradar.com
    Asus' Q-Release Slim feature seems handy, but it could seriously damage your expensive RTX 5090 graphics card.
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  • Meta to begin testing ads on Threads, its micro-blogging app
    www.cnbc.com
    Meta will begin testing ads on its Threads microblogging service with a few companies in the U.S. and Japan, the company said in a blog post Friday.
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  • Metas Threads is finally getting ads
    www.fastcompany.com
    Threads, Metas X and Bluesky rival, is testing ads with certain brands in the United States and Japan, the company said Friday.We know there will be plenty of feedback about how we should approach ads, and we are making sure they feel like Threads posts youd find relevant and interesting, Instagram head Adam Mosseri said in a post. He added that the team will be monitoring the test before scaling it more broadly. The ads will show a Sponsored label as they appear in users feeds. Meta launched Threads in 2023 and has been focusing on growing its user base and keeping people logged on. Now that it has more than 300 million monthly active users (with more than 100 million of those using it daily), better monetization efforts appear to be the next step. After all, social media is just one big way to turn eyeballs into revenue.Meta Platforms, parent company of Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp, is likely to share an update about Threads when it reports fourth-quarter 2024 earnings next week. Its stock on Friday afternoon was trading at near record highs.Responses to Mosseris post announcing the test revealed frustration from some users. You put in ads, there will be no reason to stay. One user wrote. Ill leave the minute the ads start rolling by. Guaranteed.
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  • Costco shareholders defended DEI hiring against anti-woke attacks and wonfor now
    www.fastcompany.com
    With a swath of anti-DEI and other executive orders spilling out of the White House during the first week of Trumps second term, many companies are likewise changing or rolling back their own DEI programs or policies. That list includes Amazon, Boeing, Lowes, McDonalds, and Meta, many in the wake of a 2023 Supreme Court decision striking down certain affirmative action programs (which can be somewhat related to DEI efforts).However, one big companys shareholders are bucking the trend.Costcos shareholders rejected a proposal from a conservative think tank on Thursday, which aimed to persuade the company to roll back or nix its DEI hiring practices. Its a notable rejection, given that many other large companies have been more or less giving in to similar requests or proposals, and that Costco is the worlds third-largest retailer. In effect, its a sizable win for DEI adherents.The proposal was floated by the National Center for Public Policy Research (NCPPR), and argued that Costcos DEI policies were harmful to the company and could open it up to lawsuits.With 310,000 employees, Costco likely has at least 200,000 employees who are potentially victims of this type of illegal discrimination because they are white, Asian, male or straight, reads a statement in support of the change, presented to shareholders prior to the vote. Accordingly, even if only a fraction of those employees were to file suit, and only some of those prove successful, the cost to Costco could be tens of billions of dollars.Costcos Board of Directors had recommended that shareholders vote against the proposal, and shareholders agreedthe proposal was voted down by 98% of them. While that was a win for DEI proponents, an uphill battle remains. This week, Trump issued an executive order aimed at terminating DEI policies.Illegal DEI and DEIA policies not only violate the text and spirit of our longstanding Federal civil-rights laws, they also undermine our national unity, as they deny, discredit, and undermine the traditional American values of hard work, excellence, and individual achievement in favor of an unlawful, corrosive, and pernicious identity-based spoils system, the executive order reads. Hardworking Americans who deserve a shot at the American Dream should not be stigmatized, demeaned, or shut out of opportunities because of their race or sex.So while Costco shareholders may have chalked up a win for DEI proponents in this case, the larger war is still ongoing.
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  • CLB Architects converts former Kmart building into manufacturing facility
    www.dezeen.com
    American studio CLB Architects adapted a former Kmart department store into a headquartersfor an energy and manufacturing company in Wyoming, adding a weathering steel facade What was once an 82,230-square foot (7,545-square metre) concrete Kmart is now the new EMIT Technologies location expanded to a 119,325-square foot (11,085-square metre) campus on a nine-acre property in Sheridan, Wyoming.CLB Architects has turned a Kmart into a manufacturing headquartersCLB Architects which has offices in Jackson Hole, Wyoming and Bozeman, Montana designed the building as a circulatory system for different user groups and created a collaborative environment where a "no collar" workforce could cross-pollinate, exchange ideas, and engage across staff, craftsmen, and the general public."The building form is addressed both additively and subtractively, creating a synergised, consolidated structure that encourages non-hierarchical relationships between office employees and factory staff," the CLB Architects team told Dezeen.The former department store now houses a branch of EMIT TechnologiesThe original Kmart building was transformed into a manufacturing space, and a new office and amenity building was added to the north side of the site."To unify the building from an architectural and visual standpoint, we wrapped those two halves of the building in a steel scarf," Eric Logan, CLB partner, told Dezeen, mentioning that the exterior steel scarf celebrates the "skill, talent, and craft of the building's occupants.The three-story addition is curved on the top and bottom floorsThe weathering steel facade which was custom fabricated and engineered by EMIT Technologies almost entirely on-site is suspended off the surface of the perimeter wall.A laser-perforated scrim serves as both a shading system and a display of the materials and methods of the manufacturing within.An oblong glazed courtyard cuts through the centreThe new three-storey addition is curved on the top and bottom floors but rectilinear on the second level, displaying its stacked makeup.An oblong glazed courtyard cuts through the centre of the addition like a "lung, which disseminates light and air into adjacent office and collaboration spaces."The machine floor is accessible by a pivot-pointA two-storey fire-rated glazing system forms an internal see-through facade between the office and manufacturing spaces."The machine floor is accessible by a pivot-point from the office headquarters, which reflects this spatial dichotomy in its interior finishes by playing raw, industrial materials against more elevated, streamlined, and hard-wearing surfaces," the team said.Read: CLB Architects takes "residential" approach for Jackson Hole AirportThe campus is open to the larger Sheridan community they will be able to access the auditorium, flex spaces, coffee shop, gymnasium, barber shop and library."Rugged but not individualist, the EMIT headquarters embodies the pioneering spirit and redefines notions of 'campus' to engage more deeply with the people, place, and raw materials that make the work possible."Weathering steel clads the facade"Weaving together cutting-edge technology and a community-focused ethos, the structure exemplifies the people and raw materials involved in the making process."The city of Sheridan reclaimed the area surrounding the building as a public park, which is now home to FILTER, a public art installation crafted by CLB and EMIT for the May 2022 NYCxDesign Festival in Times Square. Folded steel shards form an ellipsoid pavilion that has now made it home to Wyoming with a patina that reflects its journey.The photography is by Nic Lehoux.Project credits:Architecture: CLB ArchitectsCLB project team: Eric Logan, Andy Ankeny, Jeffrey Johnson, Danny Wicke, Justin Dhein, Taylor Noel, Sarah Kennedy, Jaye InfangerInterior design: EMIT with CLB ArchitectsContractor: AXE BuildCivil engineering: Nelson EngineeringStructural engineering: KL&A, Inc.MEP engineering: BG Building WorksAcoustical engineering: BG Building WorksTheatrical/AV consulting: BG Building WorksGeotechnical engineering: Nelson EngineeringLandscape: EMIT with CLB ArchitectsLighting: Lux Populi, Thomas Paterson, Scarlett TaylorKitchen consultant: HC Design and ConsultingSpecifications: iBIMClient: Casey Osborn, CEO, EMITThe post CLB Architects converts former Kmart building into manufacturing facility appeared first on Dezeen.
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  • Swatch x Blancpain Scuba Fifty Fathoms Pink Ocean: A Bold Dive into Vibrant Design
    www.yankodesign.com
    Swatch and Blancpains collaboration evolves once again with the Scuba Fifty Fathoms Pink Ocean, a bold exploration of color and creativity. This release reimagines the iconic Fifty Fathoms in a vivid, magenta-inspired pink that demands attention. By merging Blancpains dive watch heritage with Swatchs accessible design approach, the Pink Ocean transforms a classic into a vibrant fusion of technical tradition and artistic expression.Designer: Swatch x BlancpainBuilding on the popularity of earlier models like the Ocean of Storms and Blue Lagoon, the Pink Ocean carves its own niche. Its not a subtle piece by any means; instead, it leans into its playful design to offer something both unique and conversation-worthy.A Playful Take on a Classic DesignThe 42.3mm Bioceramic case defines the Pink Oceans striking appearance. Swatch has chosen a richly saturated pink, leaning toward magenta, that covers the case, bezel frame, and crown in a unified aesthetic. This vivid color choice brings energy and playfulness to the watch, making it stand out in a sea of more traditional dive watches.To add balance, the bezel insert shifts to a lighter pink tone, with its 60-minute scale filled with Super-LumiNova for enhanced underwater visibility. The contrast between these shades creates visual interest without disrupting the cohesive color scheme. This careful use of varying hues makes the watch feel thoughtfully designed rather than overwhelming or excessive.Moving to the dial, the gradient pink surface features a subtle grainy texture that adds depth and sophistication to the bold design. Darker pink is used for the applied numerals, hour markers, and hands, which ensures strong legibility even with such a saturated color palette. The logos for Blancpain and Swatch are seamlessly integrated, while a matching pink date wheel shows the level of attention to detail in every aspect of the watch.An Eco-Friendly Strap with StyleAdding to its vibrant appearance, the NATO strap complements the case with a striped design of alternating pink tones. Made from recycled fishing nets, the strap ties into the watchs marine inspiration while highlighting Swatchs dedication to sustainability. Its lightweight yet durable construction ensures comfort, whether worn during everyday activities or while diving.The matching pink Bioceramic hardware, including loops and a pin buckle, completes the straps design. These elements enhance the seamless integration of the strap with the case, reinforcing the overall theme of unity and attention to detail. The straps environmentally conscious origins further underscore the collaborations modern sensibilities, making it as forward-thinking as it is stylish.A View of the Inner WorkingsThe back of the Pink Ocean offers just as much personality as the front. Through the exhibition caseback, the Sistem51 movement takes center stage, but its not your typical mechanical view. The rotor is decorated in a pink hue, featuring a whimsical nudibranch motif that nods to the oceanic world. This small but impactful detail ties the watch back to its marine inspiration, adding a layer of storytelling to its functionality.The Sistem51 itself is an industrially produced automatic movement, offering a generous 90-hour power reserve and operating at 21,600 vibrations per hour. Though it cannot be serviced or repaired, its design philosophy aligns with Swatchs approach to accessibility and practicality. Surrounding the caseback are embossed phrases like Passion for Diving and Protect What You Love, reinforcing the watchs connection to marine conservation and the importance of oceanic preservation.Balancing Tradition with InnovationWhile the Pink Oceans vibrant design takes center stage, it remains firmly grounded in the heritage of the Fifty Fathoms. The classic case shape, unidirectional bezel, and water resistance of 91 meters (300 feet) ensure that this watch still meets the standards expected of a dive watch. These elements provide a sense of reliability and function beneath the playful surface, ensuring that the design doesnt compromise performance.However, this collaboration isnt aimed solely at purists or traditionalists. Instead, it appeals to collectors and enthusiasts who appreciate design experimentation and enjoy pushing boundaries. Swatchs influence has expanded Blancpains reach, offering a fresh perspective on what a luxury dive watch can be without sacrificing the foundational elements that make the Fifty Fathoms iconic.The Intersection of Fun and FunctionalityThe Swatch x Blancpain Scuba Fifty Fathoms Pink Ocean exemplifies the idea that serious craftsmanship can coexist with playful design. It challenges traditional dive watch aesthetics, embracing bold colors while staying true to the functionality expected of a professional instrument. Whether its the vibrant dial, the sustainable strap, or the innovative Bioceramic case, every element of this watch reflects a balance between creativity and practicality.This release goes beyond adding a fun piece to a collectionit offers a fresh perspective on dive watches. Swatchs playful vision, paired with Blancpains technical expertise, creates a watch that sparks conversation and broadens the appeal of the Fifty Fathoms. The Pink Ocean invites wearers to view dive watches as tools that also reflect personality and style.For those unafraid to step outside of traditional norms, the Pink Ocean is a refreshing take on the iconic Fifty Fathoms, proving that innovation in design can be just as important as innovation in functionality.The post Swatch x Blancpain Scuba Fifty Fathoms Pink Ocean: A Bold Dive into Vibrant Design first appeared on Yanko Design.
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  • Leaf Vein Tea gives you biodegradable packaging for tea leaves
    www.yankodesign.com
    I am an avid coffee drinker but sometimes, having too much in one day affects my sleep cycle. So one of my challenges for myself this 2025 is to replace some of my coffee with tea. I prefer the loose leaf tea for the most natural way of drinking it but oftentimes, I use tea bags. These tea bags are mostly paper and chemical based and they are the most common available in the market. Luckily, there are some brands and product designers that are looking into more sustainable ways of packaging these tea leaves while retaining and even enhancing the flavor of the actual tea. Leaf Vein Tea is a different kind of tea packaging that is 100% biodegradable and also pretty unique. From the name itself, it uses veins from leaves to create the tea bag wherein you put your tea leaves. The inspiration for the design are the green mountains of the Yunnan province in China. The packaging is made from the aforementioned rubber leaf veins and the external packaging uses mulberry bark paper and tea leaf waste. This means that after using the tea bag, you can guiltlessly dispose of it since the entire thing is biodegradable. Designer: Cole Studio (Shanghai) for Yunnan Jiang FangBecause the packaging uses this natural vein pattern, it is able to give the tea drinker optimal filtration of the tea leaves without losing any of the taste and essence of what youre drinking. The mulberry bark paper on the external packaging even adds a subtle tea scent so it engages your olfactory sense as well. You can also mimic the feel of picking tea leaves from the plant by picking up the leaf-shaped bag and putting it in your cup of hot water. Aside from its eco-friendly materials and design, it also gives off a very aesthetic vibe. If you like posting on social media what youre drinking, having a leaf floating in your transparent tea cup looks very pretty and Instagram-ready. Hopefully we get even more biodegradable and aesthetic packaging not just for tea but even for coffee and other drinks soon. The post Leaf Vein Tea gives you biodegradable packaging for tea leaves first appeared on Yanko Design.
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  • This Man Eats So Much Butter, Cheese, and Beef that Cholesterol Oozes from His Skin
    www.wired.com
    High cholesterol is considered 240 mg/dL. The mans was over 1,000 mg/dL.
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  • TikTok Ban and Trump Executive Order Lead to Tech Company Dilemma
    www.nytimes.com
    The federal law banning TikTok has revealed a major schism among American tech companies: Some are willing to flout the law and some, including Apple and Google, are not.
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