If you dread the weekly grocery shop, or get sidetracked by fun snacks only to end up with no real meals, this might be the hack for you.The 5-4-3-2-1 method gives shoppers like you a simple template the next time youre about to crash out in the produce aisle. Instead of tossing random items into the cart and realizing later you have nothing to cook, grab five vegetables, four fruits, three proteins, two starches, and one treat, and call it a day.The idea is that everything can be mixed and matched for different meals, helping to cut costs and prevent food waste. Having a number in mind for each category brings just enough structure to make grocery shopping less stressful, and maybe even enjoyable.The method traces back to content creator and chef Will Coleman, who posted a video of his grocery tips in 2023. He said he could make between four and six meals for two people for under $100 using the formula. Since then, others have tested out his method for themselves. @chefwillco GROCERY SHOPPING TIPS FOR BEGINNERS (and those who are looking to save money.) If youre not the best at grocery shopping or never know what to get, dont sweat it or be embarrassed! Lets step up your game with my 5-4-3-2-1 method. Tag @Whole Foods Market in the comments if you think I should make this a series #adulting #tips #groceryshopping #hauls #howto #cooking #budget #nyc #budgetmeals #comewithme #vlog #explorepage #fyp #viral #nyc #comewithme original sound Chef Will Coleman A new poll from the Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research finds that almost 90% of American adults are stressed about grocery costs, which means the viral hack couldnt have resurfaced at a better time.The Consumer Price Index shows grocery prices are up 2.4% compared to last year. Instead of overspending on produce that goes bad at the back of the fridge, focus on staples: a bag of salad, broccoli, zucchini, onions, peppers. Add a few fruits like berries, bananas, kiwi, grapes. Throw some protein in your cart, like salmon, eggs, or tofu, as well as starches like rice or pasta.Of course, youll likely need to buy more than 16 items in order to have a fully stocked kitchen. But its a great starting point for your grocery list if you tend to wander the aisles overwhelmed. On your way to checkout, dont forget something funa seasonal snack or sweet treatbecause you deserve it.

This ReCon Project, developed at Austria's Graz University of Technology (TU Graz), proposes a hook-and-loop fastening system for wall surfaces. While a true hook-and-loop arrangement (like that used in Velcro) isn't possible with rigid surfaces, the research team came up with a close approximation. Protrusions were cast into concrete, and a flexible sheet material was 3D printed with corresponding protrusions on one face, allowing the sheet to be non-permanently adhered to the concrete. "Such hook-and-loop systems make it possible to properly separate durable load-bearing structures that are intended to last for decades from more short-lived elements such as installations, surfaces, floors or non-load-bearing interior walls," the researchers write. That's an intriguing proposal. I've recently had to replace subflooring and flooring, and am currently in the process of removing several hundred square feet of old wallpaper; both are messy, time-consuming jobs. Imagine a future where those things could simply be peeled off and replaced!

Modern life demands flexibility, as shrinking homes, faster travel, and evolving lifestyles outpace the limits of rigid, traditional design. Conventional rigid structures struggle to keep up with this pace, but inflatable design offers a refreshing solution. Imagine furniture that folds into a backpack, or homes that expand and contract with your lifestyle.Inflatables merge creativity with convenience, giving us spaces and products that are lighter, more portable, and more versatile than anything we have known. Beyond novelty, this design approach directly addresses modern challenges, turning adaptability into a tangible experience. Here is how inflatable design invites us to consider solutions created for living, rather than for permanence alone.1. The Shift Toward Sustainable, Lightweight DesignThe materials we use directly shape the environmental impact of our homes and products. Traditional construction relies heavily on materials like concrete and steel, which require substantial energy for manufacturing and transportation. Inflatable design, by contrast, relies on engineered fabrics that are durable and lightweight.Whether used for a temporary pop-up structure or adaptable furniture, their reduced weight significantly lowers the energy required to move, assemble, or reconfigure them. But the benefits extend further. Inflatable structures achieve similar volume and function with far fewer raw materials, resulting in leaner production, less waste, and a smaller carbon footprint.Z LOUNGER proves inflatable seating can be both stylish and ergonomic. Airmaans Kickstarter success folds into a yoga-mat-sized roll yet unfolds into a silhouette closer to Le Corbusiers Chaise Longue than a pool float. An S-shaped contour supports the spine, internal air chambers align with natural curves, and a detachable neck pillow adds comfort. The reclining base adjusts easily between upright lounging, full recline, and flat mode, while a subtle knee arch improves posture and circulation.Weighing just 4.6kg, its portable yet built to withstand tough conditions, with military-grade composites that resist UV, rain, pets, kids, and even accidental run-overs. Inflation takes under a minute, its waterproof, mildew-resistant, and doubles as a floating lounger. Modular by design, it accommodates aftermarket mats while offering Airmaans own Z Cushion.2. Adaptability for the Modern LifestyleModern life is constantly shifting as we relocate for careers, family, or simply the pursuit of change. Traditional homes, built as static fixtures, rarely match this fluid reality. Inflatable spaces, from rapid-deploy shelters to pop-up event venues, offer an agile solution. Easy to assemble and just as easy to store, they provide flexibility for disaster relief, temporary housing, or even a home office that disappears once work ends.This adaptability also enhances everyday living. In small apartments, large furniture can feel restrictive. Inflatable alternatives deliver the same comfort yet can be packed away, freeing space for yoga, gatherings, or creativity.In design, inspiration often emerges from the most unexpected sources. The SQUEEZE lamp, created by designer Eva Ausmann, exemplifies this by reimagining air as a central design element in lighting. More than a lamp, it is an inventive exploration of material and form. Constructed from TPU-coated nylon, the piece maintains constant air pressure, resulting in a structure that is both lightweight and resilient. At first glance, its playful form could be mistaken for decorative art, yet its inflatable body and welded joints give it both flexibility and strength.SQUEEZE integrates functionality with innovation. It attaches to tabletops using pressure between air cushions, while an integrated air-pressure sensor enables light control through touch, creating an interactive experience. Designed for sustainability, the lamp folds flat when deflated, reducing weight, transport costs, and emissions. Available in three colors, its minimalist geometry and soft contours allow it to complement diverse interiors, blending playful creativity with refined sophistication.3. Enhanced Well-Being Through Sensory DesignThe experience of a space is defined not only by appearance but also by touch and form. While we often connect well-being to natural light or fresh air, the sensory qualities of our surroundings are equally important. Inflatable design brings a new tactile dimension with soft, pliable surfaces that feel welcoming and gentle. Unlike rigid interiors, these elements create a relaxed, comfortable atmosphere that supports mental balance.The shapes themselves add to this effect. Rounded edges and fluid, playful forms reduce intimidation, replacing sharpness with calm.The Esch 22 Space Station 04 E22SSPIU, or short for Pump It Up, is a conceptual towable dwelling that inflates an upper level to accommodate up to six occupants. Conceived by Luxembourg-based studio 2001 for the city of Esch, the project functions as a research initiative rather than a commercial product. Its purpose is to provoke discussion about unconventional approaches to compact housing. The unit is constructed on a durable stainless steel double-axle trailer with a restrained exterior design, punctuated by a single, expansive rear window that introduces natural light and frames exterior views. Entry is provided by a metal ramp leading to a lower-level interior containing a living area, bathroom, and compact kitchen with essential amenities.Once stationed, pneumatic struts elevate the roof to form a base, while a compressor inflates a double-shell dome that serves as the upper floor. This level offers cork flooring, integrated light-permeable grating, and inflatable mattresses for adaptable sleeping arrangements. Access is available via staircase or elevator, and a water recycling system supports sustainable use of resources. Though unconventional in form, the dwelling illustrates a creative exploration of adaptable housing strategies within limited space.4. Intersection of Function and AestheticsFor years, inflatables were seen as purely practical or playful novelties with little design value. That perception is changing as contemporary designers harness advanced materials and smart engineering to elevate them into high-design objects. Today, we see sculptural chairs, modular walls that shape interiors, and striking architectural features that prove inflatables can be both useful and beautiful.This transformation highlights how design can merge functionality with inspiration. A translucent inflatable wall, for example, can brighten and expand a room while offering flexible layouts. Inflatables now demonstrate that practicality and aesthetic refinement are not opposites but powerful partners in innovation.The film lighting industry has embraced many innovations, but few combine practicality and creative flexibility as effectively as ColorPipes. These inflatable, ultra-light fixtures are designed by filmmakers for filmmakers, addressing the frustrations of traditional rigs like heavy equipment, fragile parts, and complex power needs. By weighing a fraction of conventional lights while delivering professional-grade brightness, ColorPipes streamline setup and transport, allowing crews to focus on storytelling rather than logistics. Their pixelized RGBWW technology offers high-CRI bicolor illumination and dynamic color effects, reducing the need for multiple fixtures and empowering creators with greater control over mood and atmosphere.Built for demanding environments, ColorPipes feature IP67-rated waterproofing, ensuring reliable performance in rain, salt spray, and even shallow underwater shoots. Wireless control through CRMX, DMX, or Bluetooth further enhances adaptability, while the quick-inflation system enables deployment within minutes. Compact enough to fit in a carrying case yet powerful enough for studio-quality output, ColorPipes redefine modern film lighting by merging resilience, versatility, and efficiency.5. Democratizing Space and DesignTraditionally, creating an additional room or structure demanded permits, skilled labor, and heavy costs, making customization an exclusive luxury. Inflatable design overturns this model by offering lightweight, portable structures that arrive in a box. Instead of lengthy construction, a functional space can be set up within hours, making adaptable and thoughtfully designed environments accessible to far more people.From temporary art pavilions and pop-up stores to flexible work hubs, inflatables deliver low-cost, high-impact solutions. They allow individuals and communities to experiment freely with layouts and uses of space. Inflatables dont just change how we build, but they also empower everyone to design.In Jinans streets, a massive soap-bubble-like dome rises above the skyline. Far from being an art installation, it is the worlds largest construction enclosure, an inflatable structure covering 20,000 square meters and soaring 50 meters high. Created by China Energy Construction Group and Licheng Urban Development Group for the Honglou 1905 project, it redefines how construction unfolds in urban spaces.The domes design turns building sites into quieter, cleaner environments by trapping 90 percent of dust and cutting noise by 80 percent. For residents, it eliminates the usual disruption of dust, debris, and relentless noise. Inside, crews work in a climate-controlled space where wind, rain, or weather delays are no obstacle, enabling faster progress and higher-quality results. The domes temporary design makes it especially innovative. Once construction wraps up, it simply deflates and disappears, leaving no trace. This reversible approach minimizes pollution, cuts carbon footprints, and redefines urban development.Inflatable design is not just a trend but a shift in how we shape living and working spaces. By prioritizing adaptability, sustainability, and well-being, it responds to modern needs with intelligence and ease. This fluidity creates freedom that empowers people to design environments that evolve as their lives change.The post Using Air to Build: How Inflatable Design Is Revolutionizing Habitable Spaces And Product Design first appeared on Yanko Design.

Tech giants are hooking us on free, but it won't last forever.

The US has sensitive nuclear technology at a nuclear power plant inside Ukraine and is warning Russia not to touch it, according to a letter the US Department of Energy sent to Russia's state-owned nuclear energy firm Rosatom last month.

In a hot spring at Yellowstone National Park, a microbe does something that life shouldnt be able to: It breathes oxygen and sulfur at the same time.

Builder.ai went from a value of $1.5 billion to zero in a few months, amid questions over the sales of an A.I. product. Its downfall hints at a broader downturn.

MacworldYou know whats better than finally upgrading your laptop? Getting Microsoft Office foreverwith it no strings, no subscriptions, no extra monthly bills. For a limited time, this valuablecombo of a refurbished 2020 MacBook Pro along with a lifetime license to Microsoft Office 2021is on sale for $429.99 (MSRP $1,799).This bundle gives you a sleek, powerful13 MacBook Prowith a fast quad-core Intel i5 chip, 16GB RAM, and 512GB of SSD storage. Translation? Its got the speed and space to crush everything from creative work to 100-tab browser chaos. The Retina display is crisp and clean, the Magic Keyboard actually feels good to type on, and the battery life lasts up to 10 hours so you can work from anywhere without babysitting a charger. Its also been given an A grade, which means its in near-mint condition with minimal to no signs of previous use.And then theres the software side: a lifetime license for Microsoft Office Home & Business 2021 for Mac. Youll get Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, OneNote, and even Teams all installed locally, no internet required. Its yours for good, whether youre working from home, running a side hustle, or juggling spreadsheets and client emails from a coffee shop.Its a full-blown productivity setup in one sweet deal ready to go straight out of the box.Dont miss this deal on aMacBook Pro refurb and lifetime MS Office 2021 bundleon sale for $429.99 for a limited time.MSO Home & Business for Mac 2021 Lifetime License + MacBook Pro 13 (2020)See DealStackSocialprices subject to change.

All right, my fellow productivity-minded Pixel possessor its that time: Time to set aside all ooh, shiny! sensations, put on your practical thinking cap, and consider closely if Googles latest and greatest Pixel gadgets are actually worth your while to buy.El Googaloo took the wraps off its new Pixel 10 and Pixel 10 Pro (and the plus-sized XL versions of each of those models) just over a week ago. And now, the devices are officially out in the world and ready to tempt us all.Ive had the privilege of living with the new Pixels for the past week, since the day of the Pixel 10 launch shindig, thanks to a series of loaner reviews unit from Google. Prior to that, I spent most of the past year using my own personal Pixel 9 Pro XL with many months personally owning and/or using every previous Pixel model before that as well.With all of that perspective in mind, Id tell you two things, to start:The new Pixel 10 phones truly are fantastic undoubtedly Googles best all-around efforts to date. Theyre an absolute delight to use, and the combination of the exceptional real-world user experience they offer, all the thoughtful and genuinely practical touches they bring into the picture, and the unmatched commitment to timely and reliable ongoing software updates for a full seven years that they provide continues to put these products in a league of their own. This year, with these latest devices, thats more true than ever.While the recommendation to buy one is easy for someone who doesnt already own a Pixel whether theyre a Samsung Galaxy fan looking for something different or (gasp!) an iPhone devotee ready to make the leap to a more modern and less locked-down lifestyle the question of whether its worth shelling out hundreds of dollars to move up from a previous Pixel model is much more nuanced and complex.With that in mind, what follows is specific case-by-case guide to thinking about the Pixel 10 upgrade whether youre coming from last years Pixel 9 models, the previous years Pixel 8 devices, or any other older Pixels from there on back. In each instance, there wont always be a single black-and-white, one-size-fits-all answer. But there will be some practical guidance I can give you based on my experiences with these latest Googley gizmos and my intimate knowledge of their assorted Pixel predecessors.Feel free to skip around and read only the sections relevant to you, if youd like (though Id strongly suggest starting with the first section, below, as it explores a lot about these latest models and many of their newest features) and if you want only the high points without all the detail, look for the symbol at the end of each section for the verdict.Oh and whether you end up snagging the Pixel 10 or stickin with your current model, be sure to mosey your way over to my free Pixel Academy e-course next. Itll teach you all sorts of useful new stuff your phone can do for you, no matter which Pixel youre palming.Google Pixel 10 vs. Pixel 9 (or Pixel 9 Pro)The Google Pixel 10 Pro XL, at left, next to the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL, right.JR Raphael, FoundryWell start with the most recent flagship Pixels and how they compare to the new Pixel 10 offerings, in both the regular and the Pro forms. (And note: Since both Pixel 10 models and their larger XL equivalents are essentially identical other than their size, Im generally not gonna break things down between the XL and non-XL options nor am I going to specifically separate the Pro and regular models, unless theres a pressing reason to do so. For any of the possibilities we discuss from this point onward, if you prefer a larger device, go with the XL. If you like a smaller phone, go with the non-XL version. If you want the best possible cameras and all the whistles, go Pro; otherwise, go with the regular path. Capisce?)This one is an especially tricky decision, with several paths to choose from, but Ill try to make it as simple as possible:Broadly speaking, the biggest reason to consider upgrading from the Pixel 9 series to the Pixel 10 is the added presence of Pixelsnap Googles name for the MagSafe-like native magnets built into the phone that allow for secure and effortless connections to all sorts of wireless chargers, stands, and other accessories. How much that actually matters, of course, is entirely up to you to decide. But its the most immediately noticeable improvement between these two generations, and if I had to pick one reason the upgrade might be worthwhile for folks coming from Pixel 9 devices, thatd be it.Google, unfortunately, wasnt able to make its official Pixelsnap accessories available for my assessment in time for this analysis. But whats especially cool about the Pixel 10s setup in this area is that it follows the now-standard placement for this type of magnetic capability, so you can actually use the Pixel 10 with most any existing magnetic phone accessory including the massive array of MagSafe-designed products, most of which should work fine with any Pixel 10 model. Thats a pretty big plus, particularly since everything you need is right there and built into the phone itself, without the need for any special cases or other external additions. And it opens up a sprawling universe of accessories you can choose from from chargers and stands to battery packs and beyond whether you pick up one of Googles official options or not.If youre currently using the regular, non-Pro Pixel 9, upgrading to the Pixel 10 also brings the advantage of giving you a telephoto lens for high-quality taken-from-afar image capturing something that previously had been available only on the pricier Pro models.And with the Pixel 10 Pro models, you can now zoom in up to 100x up from 30x on the Pixel 9 Pro phones (and 20x on the non-Pro Pixel 10 versions). This is all due to post-capture on-device processing, but its actually pretty phenomenal.To wit: Here is a lovely little lizard I saw in front of our house last night.A somewhat zoomed photo taken on the Pixel 10 Pro XL.JR Raphael, FoundryHere is me zooming in 100x to the lizards head in the original, raw version of the photo, before the Pixel worked its magic on it.A 100x zoomed-in shot before the Pixels processing.JR Raphael, FoundryAndhereis the final product the ultimate version of the image that the Pixel saved for me.100x zooming with full Pixel 10 Pro processing.JR Raphael, Foundry(The Pixel 10 keeps both copies, in case you want to compare or want the raw, unprocessed one for any reason, but the processed one is the primary version you see in your Photos library.)Im not sure how often most of us really have the need for 100x zooming or if thats a reason to upgrade in and of itself, but its a pretty cool capability to have at your fingertips for if/when the right occasion arises and, as you can see above, its insanely impressive how well it works (though you really do have to fight to keep the shot stable and not moving around like crazy when youre zoomed in that much).The new Pixel 10 and Pixel 10 Pro pack plenty of other added hardware-oriented improvements, too for instance:Brighter screens that look noticeably nicer when youre seeing em side by side with their predecessors (but that, honestly, you probably wouldnt notice or be aware of otherwise).Better speakers a welcome improvement, though I suspect most folks will find the difference tough to appreciate; even when doing side-by-side comparisons and actively trying to listen for the contrast, its pretty subtle to my ears.A variety of under-the-hood improvements, like a new next-gen processor again, cool and the kind of progression we certainly want to see with new devices, but not something youre likely to be actively aware of in any day-to-day use.And then, of course, theres all the added software intelligence, where tends to be where Pixels really shine. With the Pixel 10s, the big-ticket item is Magic Cue a new system that, as Google puts it, connects the dots across your apps, like Gmail, Calendar, Screenshots, Messages, and more to proactively surface relevant info and suggest helpful actions when you need them.In short, Magic Cue is meant to pop up pertinent info when you need it without your even having to ask for it like, for instance, surfacing the address of an event from your calendar or maybe the details from an upcoming trip from your email when someone in a message asks about those subjects. Magic Cue feels like the headlining feature here and the element I was absolutely most excited to see in action. In reality, at least so far, its been alittlelimited in how and when it appears. Ive mostly just seen it when Ive deliberately tried to recreate scenarios from the specific examples Googles given of when itll work.That being said, a feature like this seems like the kind of thing thats tough to assess in such a limited, often contrived period of use. Especially if Google keeps expanding it (as the company tells me it very much intends to do), this could become an invaluable part of the Android experience and one of those things you dont eventhinkabout but just appreciate and come to expect over time.The Pixel 10s Magic Cue feature, as seen in notifications.JR Raphael, FoundryFor now, its limited to (a) pulling info from Gmail, Calendar, Messages, Keep, Pixel Screenshots, and Contacts and (b) surfacing relevant info from those sources in Messages, Phone, Weather, and a few other select places (like popping up a suggestion for a place youve previously searched at the top of Gboard when you open up Maps, for instance something that actually happened to me the other night and really caught me by surprise!).More than anything, it seems like a promising start and a return to the concept that came up briefly but never had the chance to develop with Google Now on Tap a decade ago. Hopefully, what were seeing here is only the beginning.Speaking of Google Now, the Pixel 10s new Daily Hub featurereallybrings the original Now concept to mind. Its meant to be a personalized digest of everything you need to know at any given moment. But so far, at least, it strikes me as a watered-down version of what Google Now gave us way back in 2012.Its a single new button at the top of the Google feed that takes you to a screen that generally seems to show a summary of the weather and any upcoming appointments and reminders.The Pixel 10s new Daily Hub in action.JR Raphael, FoundryNot exactly awe-inspiring yet but still, nice to see Google coming back around to what was always a fantastic concept. And, again, hopefully this is just the start.The on-demand Voice Translate trick isexceptionallycool and could beextremelyuseful, in the right sort of situation if/when such a need ever arises for you. It works exactly like the demo, in my experience: Once you activate it, you can simply speak normally during a call to someone, and the system will translate whatever youre sayingon the flyinto whatever language you select in your own voice. It is wild and futuristic, and while it might not be something that comes up often for many of us, its easy to see how supremely useful and life-changing it could be in certain scenarios.And finally, a feature that I didnt even fully understand initially but have really come to appreciate is Take a Message. This basically eliminates voicemail from your life, which is especially nice if youre using a carrier that doesnt provide a great visual voicemail experience. In short, anytime you miss or decline a call, Take a Message automatically takes the message for you without ever involving traditional carrier voicemail. Whatever the caller says just shows up instantly in a notification and is then also available to read or hear right there in the Phone app, alongside the missed call.The Pixel 10s Take a Message feature is like a modern replacement for voicemail.JR Raphael, IDGIf your phone is ever off or out of service, your carrier voicemail still kicks in. But as long as the device is on and actively connected, your voicemail becomes a feature on the device, in the Phone app, instead of some awkwardly separate (and difficult to save or bring with you when changing phones or carriers) add-on service.And, if youre wondering, Google isnt saying yet if or when any of these features might make their way to older Pixels (or possibly even non-Pixel Android devices). But thats certainly something that could happen down the line as well and often does happen with items like these.Notably, the same future-reach ambiguity is not present with the new natural language image editing option debuting in Google Photos on the Pixel 10 devices. That feature which works impressively well some of the time and is a ton of fun to play around with does seem like itll make its way to more places eventually, though the specific timing isnt yet certain. And in the meantime, you can actually accomplish fairly similar feats directly within Gemini on any device, be it a phone, computer, or anything in between. The verdict, in short: Lots of useful little touches that add up to create an even more pleasant and productive all-around Pixel experience but nothing you truly need coming from last years models.If youre itchin for something new and youre the sort of person who geeks out over the finer points of mobile technology (hiya!) or if any of the specific new features, like Voice Translate, really jump at you as elements youd use often youll be thrilled with the Pixel 10 upgrade coming from a Pixel 9.The phone is mostly a refined and improved version of last years Pixel, which makes it even more polished and enticing for a newcomer (especially at the same price as last years offering) but not exactly a need-to-upgrade situation for an average Pixel 9 owner.The most significant change for most people will be the presence of native support for those magnetic accessories and then the addition of telephoto zoom for the non-Pro models. Beyond that, youll see a bunch of little quality-of-life improvements that may not be overly attention-grabbing at the onset but that will actually help you and make a difference over time.All of that being said, the purely sensible advice in this scenario would be to hang onto your current phone for a while longer though the various launch-time deals and trade-in values might give you some extra excuses, if you really just want to talk yourself into it.Google Pixel 10 vs. Pixel 9aThe Pixel 10 Pro XL next to the Pixel 9a.JR Raphael, FoundryGot Googles most recent midrange Pixel model? Moving to the Pixel 10 or Pixel 10 Pro would absolutely be an improvement for you, but thats in large part because youre moving from a more budget-minded proposition into premium flagship terrain.That means youll get a fancier-feeling phone body (for whatever thats worth to you), along with lots of extra bells and whistles and niceties including all sorts of upgraded camera capabilities.The Pixel 10 and Pixel 10 Pro are also in a completely different league when it comes to processing power, which can make the phone feel a fair bit snappier. That being said, the Pixel 9a is certainly no slouch with performance for most average-animal needs, and you may or may not notice any obvious difference in your day-to-day use (especially if you arent doing a ton of multitasking and other high-resource-requiring work).The biggest question to ask yourself is why you went with the Pixel 9a in the first place. If its because of the price and value, then moving up to the Pixel 10 or Pixel 10 Pro probably isnt an advisable move. Your 9a still has a solid six and a half years (!) of active software support under its belt, and nothing about the 9-to-10 upgrade is gonna dramatically revolutionize your core user experience or what your phones capable of doing outside of photography, at least, but even there, were talking more niceties and added abilities as opposed to core competency.If past trends hold true, meanwhile, well see the next midrange Pixel the Pixel 10a sometime next spring. So thats also on the way as a possible upgrade within your current a-series path, should you wish to move to something new but stay within the same mid-level price range. (And odds are, itll get at least some of the new software-oriented features from the Pixel 10, too.) The verdict, in short: A lofty leap but largely just because of the change in range.If youre jonesing for a more premium Pixel experience, youll be positively thrilled by the move to a Pixel 10 or Pixel 10 Pro but thats mostly because youre hopping from one product tier to another.For most people who bought the 9a in the first place, sticking with that phone for a while longer will make more sense.Google Pixel 10 vs. Pixel 8 (or Pixel 8 Pro)The Pixel 10 Pro XL next to the Pixel 8 Pro XL.JR Raphael, FoundryIf youre coming from a Pixel 8 or Pixel 8 Pro phone, be sure to read the Pixel 10 vs. Pixel 9 comparison above as many of those same impressions will apply to you, too.The added difference is mostly that your device is another year and generation behind, so the contrasts will all be slightly more noticeable coming from your current phone compared to the one-year-old Pixel 9 models. And that makes the question of whether to upgrade for you a little more murky still in a gray zone, without any easy universal answer, but with a little more leaning toward the maybe side of the equation.All brand new elements aside, the Pixel 9 (last years flagship) was the first phone model to introduce two software features that I have actually found to be quite useful over the past year both of which are still very much present on the Pixel 10 but arent present on your Pixel 8 device:Pixel Screenshots, an app that saves and makes it easier to search your screenshots and most significantly introduces a simple system-wide shortcut for creating an on-the-fly reminder around any screenshot you save quite possibly the most indispensable Pixel addition in recent years, in my eyes (and one that you can emulate in a couple creative ways but thats never quite the same as the system-level original)And Call Notes, a smart addition to the Pixel Phone app that can automatically take notes and then provide summaries of any or all of your voice calls (and once more, something you can recreate on any Android device with a little creative thinking but without completely matching the smooth and seamless nature of the native implementation)Those features alone might be worth making the leap from the Pixel 8 to the Pixel 10, if you ask me (because remember, the Pixel 10 is basically a refined and improved version of the Pixel 9, still at the same price). And thats to say nothing of the other noteworthy 9-series-introduced improvements that also carry over to this current generation including backup satellite connectivity for contacting emergency services and sending messages when you dont have regular cellular service. Honestly, most of that may mean more than much of the brand new 10-level stuff for a lot of Pixel 8-series owners.All in all, this isnt what Id call a no-brainer, pull-the-trigger-this-instant upgrade. We arent at that point quite yet. But its a reasonably compelling argument to consider if youre not entirely ecstatic about your current phone situation and/or youre ready for something new and improved. The verdict, in short: Incredibly easy to justify if you want it but by no means needed.The Pixel 10 or 10 Pro would mark a noticeable and quite significant upgrade coming from any of the Pixel 8 models in all the same ways we went over for the Pixel 9 section, above, and all the improvements from the 8-to-9 generation that also carry over now.But the 8-generation phones still have plenty of life left in em, and theres nothing with the new 10 devices thatd dramatically change your life mostly just some nifty new conveniences and assorted added niceties.Especially with all the promos and trade-in values, you wouldnt regret making the move to a Pixel 10-level phone. And I have no doubt youd be very happy with it.But youd also be fine to stick with your Pixel 8 for another year or more and from a purely sensible perspective, thatd be the way to go.Google Pixel 10 vs. Pixel 8aThe story with the Pixel 8a is honestly pretty similar to what we said with the 9a a moment ago only with an extra year of use and improvements added into the mix.The Pixel 10 or Pixel 10 Pro would be a significant upgrade from the 8a in every possible measure, and youd absolutely notice the difference. But your current phone is still fine, and the 8a is set to be supported with Android software updates all the way through May 2031.Just like with the Pixel 9a, the real question here is how badly you want to move to a more premium, high-end phone experience and how much youre willing to spend to get there. The verdict, in short: Another big jump between classes, if youre looking for that kind of change.For most 8a owners, theres no pressing reason to upgrade though going from that phone to the Pixel 10 or Pixel 10 Pro would absolutely be a massive and immediately noticeable improvement, if you simply wanted to give yourself the added niceties of the more premium Pixel path.Google Pixel 10 vs. Pixel 7 (or Pixel 7 Pro)Now were starting to trek into terrain where the upgrade to a Pixel 10 gets more substantial. The Pixel 7 series phones came out in the fall of 2022, and weve seen a fair amount of improvements now cumulatively present in the newest Pixel 10 devices in all the time since.The Pixel 7 series was also the last Pixel to launch before Google moved from a three-year software support guarantee to its current seven-year promise though the company did go back and add another couple years onto the Pixel 7 at some point along the way. That means the 7 series is set to receive operating system updates for another two years yet, through October 2027, so you certainly could wait another year (or even two) before it becomes pressing to think about a new device.That being said, youd see a host of very noticeable and meaningful improvements by making the leap now. That includes everything weve talked about in the previous sections, plus the massively significant ability to use your phones Face Unlock system everywhere as a secure way to sign into banking apps or anywhere else authentication is required which is something thats possible only with the Pixel 8 and upward.For context: That improvement alone convinced me to pull the trigger on a Pixel 8 in 2023, when that capability first came into the equation. Small of a detail as it may seem compared to the more attention-grabbing Pixel tricks, its a real game-changer and something that has a meaningful, ongoing impact on your day-to-day life likely multiple times every single day. And getting a Pixel 10 now is hands-down the best way to get it.The Pixel 7 to 10 upgrade will also give you the unusual advantage of an on-device thermometer, which seemed silly when it first debuted on the Pixel 8 series but has since grown into a valuable addition now that it supports actual human temperature-taking (which it weirdly didnt out of the gate). We can never find regular thermometers in my house, and even when we do, theyre frustratingly inconsistent and inaccurate in their readings. The Pixel 10s thermometer (on the Pro models only) is always there and ready, and its been incredibly consistent with its measurements in my experience.Still, unless your Pixel 7 series device is starting to show its age in a not-so-great way, this one mostly comes down to a matter of added niceties and conveniences once more, still, of want over need. If you want it, its well worthwhile, and youll certainly see enough of a difference to justify the change coming from the 7 series. But you definitely dont need it, and if you arent feeling the urge to get something new just yet, theres no reason not to stick with what youve got for another year or so. The verdict, in short: A very significant step up that youll absolutely notice and appreciate but still not a critical upgrade.The Pixel 10 or Pixel 10 Pro would be a welcome upgrade for you and one thats easy to justify and filled with significant, meaningful changes. But, its by no means a completely necessary purchase.Ask yourself how much you truly want one of the devices and how much you can stomach the cost taking into account any trade-in variables for whatd be an enjoyable and efficiency-enhancing, though not necessarily quite essential, change.Google Pixel 10 vs. Pixel 7aOnce more, the situation with the Pixel 7a is not all that different from what we went over with the one-generation-later a-model a moment ago with the added consideration that the 7a is now down to just shy of three years of remaining software updates and is also now over two years old, so it may be starting to slow down and introduce annoying work challenges.If you feel like you need to stick it out longer or youre just satisfied enough with what youve got now and your 7a is still working reasonably well for you theres no super-pressing reason to push yourself into Pixel 10 territory this minute.But if you want an incredible all-around productivity and day-to-day experience upgrade and are up for the cost, you would be blown away by the difference youd see moving from that phone to a Pixel 10 model on so many different levels.Again, the bigger question is if thats the change you want or if youd rather stick with the more affordable a path for your next upgrade, whenever that time arrives. The verdict, in short: Well worth it if you want to spend that kind of money.Think closely about how happy or frustrated you are with your current phone, at its current age.If its still doing the job well for you and you arent especially excited about anything new, youve got every reason to stick with what youve got.But if youre ready for an improvement and you want to leave the midrange a arena for a top-of-the-line experience, the Pixel 10 would be a tremendous leap forward for you in every measure imaginable and theres no better phone you could buy.Google Pixel 10 vs. Pixel 6 (or Pixel 6 Pro)Pixel 6 pals, youre next! And if youve been reading everything up through this point, youve probably got a pretty good guess of where were going with this.With each subsequent generation of Pixel, the argument for making the upgrade gets more compelling and thats absolutely true in the case of the Pixel 6.The Pixel 6 is set to receive current OS updates only through next October 2026 thanks to Googles extension from that devices original three-year support promise. That means youve got a few Android updates left yet, including this falls Android 16 release and then the (likely) two updates thatll land ahead of the Pixel 6s support cutoff next fall.So if you really want to stick it out a while longer, you could certainly do it. And youd be in fine shape, as far as security and privacy and all the most critical factors are concerned.But were reaching a point now where the quality-of-life upgrades would be significant enough that its easy to recommend this as a sensible step forward for most people particularly professionals concerned about having a fast, efficient, and effective device with lots of legitimately productivity-boosting advantages (along with quite a few just plain nice improvements). The verdict, in short: A smart and substantial upgrade that youll very much appreciate (but that you can still get away with waiting on a little longer, if you really want to stretch this one out as long as possible).You could hold off one more year, if youd rather, but upgrading to the Pixel 10 now would be a heck of an upgrade for you on so many levels! and the clock is ticking for when such a move will become highly advisable (and ill-advised to avoid).If youre ready now, youll be delighted with all the changes the Pixel 10 will bring you. If not, though, you could put the purchase off one more year and go with the Pixel 11 in 2026 instead.Google Pixel 10 vs. Pixel 6aGuess what? Once again, the Pixel 6a situation is pretty similar to what weve described with other Pixel a models though here, were looking at a three-year-old device down to its final two years of active OS update support.Practically speaking, the 6as OS update support end-date of July 2027 means that you could easily keep using it without any real worries. But at the same time, my goodness, the leap to a Pixel 10 would be absolutely massive for you and especially if youre relying on your device for work, itd make an immediately noticeable, extremely significant difference in your ability to get stuff done.But, again, your current phone is still reasonably okay to stick with, if youre so inclined if a little long in the tooth. And, like with our previous a-model comparisons, you could also consider going with the more affordable Pixel 9a as a still-quite-nice (just not as dramatically delightful) boost into the present. The verdict, in short: The time is nigh but you can hold off a teensy but longer (or consider a more comparable a-level upgrade), if youd rather.The argument for upgrading from a Pixel 6a is a strong one, given how much things have moved forward in the time since that phones release but this isnt quite yet a must-upgrade scenario.And, just like with the Pixel 8a, the real question is if you even want to move to the higher-end Pixel path whenever you do upgrade or if youd rather stick with the less expensive midrange a phones. Thats a decision only you can make.Google Pixel 10 vs. Pixel 5 or any earlier Pixel modelThis last Pixel 10 upgrade decision is the easiest: If youre using the Pixel 5 or any Pixel model earlier than that, you should strongly consider stepping up to a Pixel 10 or Pixel 10 Pro device now. No question.These older Pixels are no longer actively being supported with current OS updates or even security patches, and all current features and added conveniences aside, that means theyre no longer advisable to use when it comes to the ever-important areas of optimal privacy, security, and performance for your phone.That aside, the difference in practically every practical measure from performance to photo quality and all the features that have arrived in the Pixel arena over the past five-plus years is, well, immeasurable. This is the time. This is the device. Putting it off any further is doing a disservice to your productivity, your privacy and security, and your all-around Android experience.This one, at last, is easy! The verdict, in short: Do it. Do it now.Its time for a new device, plain and simple, and the Pixel 10 models will be a tremendous, night-and-day leap forward for you in every possible measure.If youre on an older Pixel a model, you could consider going with the Pixel 8a instead, should you wish to spend a little less dough.But with any older Pixel, the Pixel 10 or Pixel 10 Pro will be the best upgrade you could make right now, and you would be positively thrilled with the change (in addition to being maximally protected, in terms of being on the most current software possible and avoiding any privacy-, security-, or performance-related liabilities).Wait what about the Pixel Fold?Using the Pixel 9 Pro Fold or maybe its first-gen equivalent? The advice above doesnt really apply to you.Folding phones are their own beast, and its a bit of an apples-to-oranges comparison to try to stack them up next to a standard slab-style device at this point.If you simply arent happy with your Fold experience and think youd rather go back to a more standard sort of phone form, youd be quite pleased with a move to a Pixel 10 model.Otherwise, stay tuned for more on the third-gen Pixel Fold a.k.a. the Pixel 10 Pro Fold soon. It isnt slated to ship until sometime in October, and Google consequently hasnt made review units of it available for assessment quite yet.Decisions, decisions, eh? Hey, at least these are relatively fun ones to make.Dont let yourself miss an ounce of Pixel magic. Come start my free Pixel Academy e-course to discover tons of fresh hidden features and time-saving tricks for whatever Pixel phone youre using.

The World Poker Tour (WPT) put pen to paper on a multi-year manufacturing and distribution deal with Genco International (Genco).This brings together one of the biggest names in North American poker and a central logistics and distribution arm, Kroeger Marketing, a subsidiary of Genco, to introduce new poker products to fans across the region.WPT and Genco team up for poker product dealThe deal aims to combine the established branding of the WPT, which is synonymous with poker across North America, and the publishing power of Gencos product development from licensed contracts.Vice President of WPT Studios, Loc Sondheim, celebrated the deal, saying, This collaboration brings the WPT experience into peoples home games, giving players the tools to elevate their games and feel like a real poker pro, sharing in the excitement of tournament play.The partnership deal will allow Genco the rights to design, manufacture, and distribute a full time line of WPT-branded products, including poker sets, casino-grade chips, cards, shufflers, chutes, home game accessories, and table covers.Ranging from $4.99 to $149.99, the initial products will be available in the latter half of 2025 at major retail chains, online marketplaces, and direct-to-consumer platforms.Rubin Beige, Co-CEO of Genco International LLC said of the deal, WPT has earned global credibility in the poker world, and now all players can have access to the same quality products and experiences as seen on TV, in their homes.According to the release from WPT, both parties were brought together by All American Licensing and Management Group, run by Timothy and Don Rothwell.Timothy Rothwell is a former President of Marvel Entertainments WW Consumer Products division and Senior Vice President of Consumer Products Division at Universal Studios. His brother, Don, who is a co-founder, is a former Managing Director of Licensing Business Development and Retail at NASCAR.Genco snaps up failing KroegerGenco snapped up Kroeger Inc. as part of a wider deal when the former toy and gaming giant was following a formal insolvency proceeding and subsequent bankruptcy. Genco stepped in and acquired the company, which, at the time of filing, had $7.3 million in liabilities, including approximately $1.1 million owed to the secured lender, Pathward National Association.Grant Chapman was installed as the newly minted Chief Operating Officer after the buyout, saying, This acquisition marks a new era for Kroeger. Weve stabilized the foundation and are now looking forward to expanding our portfolio, enhancing our technology stack, and bringing innovation to every level of our supply chain.Teaming with WPT is just the business that Genco would be looking to benefit from after the costly buyout of the failing toy company.Featured image: WPTThe post World Poker Tour signs a multi-year deal with Genco appeared first on ReadWrite.