Marina Tabassum Architects (MTA) has been selected to design the 2025 Serpentine Pavilion. The practice founded by Tabassum, a Bangladeshi architect and educator, in 1995, is based in Dhaka, Bangladesh. Marina Tabassum Architectss pavilion will be titled A Capsule in Time. The elongated design is axially aligned with Serpentine Souths bell tower. It was inspired by the tradition of park-going and arched garden canopies that filter soft daylight through green foliage, a project description stated. A Capsule in Time will consist of four wooden capsule forms. Those forms will each have a translucent facade that diffuses and dapples light. One of the four capsule forms, Tabassum said, will be able to move, making the pavilion partially reconfigurable. The architect shared that the pavilion will have a strong temporal dimension.When conceiving our design, we reflected on the transient nature of the commission which appears to us as a capsule of memory and time, Tabassum continued. The relationship between time and architecture is intriguing: between permanence and impermanence, of birth, age and ruin; architecture aspires to outlive time.The elongated design is axially aligned with Serpentine Souths bell tower. ( Marina Tabassum Architects/Courtesy Serpentine)Serpentine Galleries CEO Bettina Korek and artistic director Hans Ulrich Obrist said in a joint statement MTAs design harkens back to the 2006 Serpentine Pavilion by Rem Koolhaas and Cecil Balmond with Arup, namely in its kinetics and levitating component. Tabassum went on to note that A Capsule in Time is not only temporally charged, but its also rooted in place, and is very much informed by matrimonial practices.In the Bengal delta, architecture is ephemeral as dwellings change locations with the rivers shifting courses. Architecture becomes memories of the lived spaces continued through tales, Tabassum elaborated. The archaic volume of a half capsule, generated by geometry and wrapped in light semi-transparent material will create a play of filtered light that will pierce through the structure as if under a Shamiyana at a Bengali wedding.The semi-enclosed facade will diffuse and dapple light. ( Marina Tabassum Architects/Courtesy Serpentine)Tabassum seeks to build a unique platform under the summer sun to unite as people rich in diversity. Public programming will include between three and six events, the Serpentine Gallery said.Renderings shared of Tabassums design show the interior of the cylindrical structure lined with wood benches and the transparent quality of the walls. Other visualizations depict the dappling effect of the structure, cast both in its interiors and on the grass surroudning it. A tree will be located in the center of the pavilion as an expansion and connection to the park landscape just outside. Inside, the pavilions semi-enclosed nature appears to create a cavernous or tunnel-like effect that is broken up by the intentional gaps located at the existing pathways that connect the park to Serpentine Gallery. A Capsule in Time debuts on June 6. It will stay open through October 26. For the 11th year in a row, Serpentine Pavilion is supported by Goldman Sachs.This year is the Serpentine Pavilions 24th anniversary. Korean architect Minsuk Cho designed last years Serpentine Pavilion, Archipelagic Void. Similar to Tabassum, Cho opted to showcase design elements from his home country, debuting an open courtyard typology found in traditional Korean houses.

To add the right creative touch, check out the latest direct-to-glass printing services, mirror glass designs, and glass textures and patterns. (Courtesy OmniDecor)Pure LinesOmniDecorDesigned to be printed on glass, the new patterns by Lidia Covello for OmniDecors Pure Lines collection features understated designs distinguished by slim, square, and rectangular lines. The collection, which supplements the DecorFlou Design family of glass, includes nine separate patterns, each developed in a transparent version and in a more block colored satin finish.(Courtesy Sto)StoVentec GlassStoScreen-printed StoVentec Glass is a complete single-source, back-ventilated rainscreen cladding system which fuses color directly on to the backside of the glass before the toughening process, creating permanently colored images that will not wear, scratch, fade, or incur water damage. (Courtesy Walker Glass)Walker Textures VelourWalker GlassWalker Textures Velour is a full-surface, acid-etched, mirror finish that is slightly more matte than a satin mirror, yet glossier than an opaque mirror. Velour mirror is offered in a 100-by-144-inch size in clear and Starphire glass, answering a demand from architects and designers for larger expanses of glass with fewer joints.(Courtesy Lasvit)Fused GlassLasvitWith a fused-glass kiln that treats glass sheets up to 3-by-6 meters, Lasvit can help its partners create bespoke outdoor skins as well as indoor installations. Lasvits designers work with different types of handmade molds to create many bespoke forms. (Courtesy Bendheim)Precision Digital Printing ServiceBendheimBendheim Digital is a direct-to-glass printing service for their rainscreens, exterior railing products, Turnkey Fusion Light Wall system for interiors, and more. In addition to custom designs and artwork, the ceramic-ink-jet digital printing service will offer a range of proprietary patterns.(Courtesy Pulp Studio)Infinity MirrorPulp Studio For the entrance of Fontainebleau Resorts Komodo Bar in Las Vegas, Rockwell Group selected Pulp Studios Infinity Mirror, a product that uses a one-way reflective glass opposite to a mirror to create the illusion of an infinity object. In addition to the bronze-tinted Infinity Glass, Pulp Studio also supplied Bronze mirror wall cladding for the restaurants interior. (Courtesy 3form)Etched Glass Collection3formThis collection features textural glass in six new patterns ranging from delicate florals to bold curves. 3forms unique micro-sandblasting etching results in finishes with unmatched precision and resolution.

Maurizio Cattelan and Pierpaolo Ferrari, Toiiletpaper. Image courtesy of Toiletpaper.A Provocative Photography Exhibition Invites You to Experience ChromotherapiaJanuary 28, 2025Kate MothesIn the world of photography, the color image has long held an inferior reputation to black-and-white, which connoisseurs historically deemed to be more dignified. Today, vibrant images are embraced in a wide range of fields, from fine art and fashion to advertising and journalism. Championing the potential of the medium, artist Maurizio Cattelan and French Academy in RomeVilla Medici director Sam Stourdz curated Chromotherapia: The Feel-Good Color Photography.Martin Parr, Common Sense. Image Magnum PhotosColor therapy, though deemed a pseudoscience, has its roots in color theory, which focuses on interactions between hues and how they affect our moods and emotions.Cattelan and Stourdz emphasize ebullient hyperreality, humor, and the absurd through works like Juno Calypsos Chicken Dogs, in which an anonymous figure lies face-down next to a can of hot dogs, or Walter Candohas expressive pets. And in Toiletpaper, by Cattelan and Pierpaolo Ferrari, who co-founded a magazine of the same name in 2010, a man sits on a tan couch, wearing a matching suit, covered in spaghetti.In total, twenty artists explore a range of approaches in the exhibition, from portraits of people and animals to food and uncanny tableaux. Many have freed themselves from the documentary function of the photographic medium to explore the common roots of the image and the imaginary, flirting with pop art, surrealism, bling, kitsch, and the baroque, says a statement.Chromotherapia opens February 28 and continues through June 9 in Rome, and an accompanying catalogue published by Damiani is slated for release in March in the U.K. and May in the U.S. Pre-order your copy in the Colossal Shop.Cover of Chromotherapia (2025). Featured image by Walter Chandoha, New Jersey (1962). Image Walter Chandoha ArchiveJuno Calypso, Chicken Dogs (2015), archival pigment print. Image Courtesy the artist and TJ BoultingWilliam Wegman, Ski Patrol (2017). Image courtesy of Galerie George-Philippe & Nathalie ValloisThe back cover of Damianis catalogue for the exhibition Chromotherapia: The Feel-Good Color Photography, featuring a photo by Walter ChandohaNext article

Published January 28, 2025 10:00am EST close China trying to collect data on America's economic might: Victoria Coates The former Trump deputy national security advisor joins "America's Newsroom" to discuss Chinese hackers' ability to access user workspaces at the Treasury Department. A new scam has come to light targeting residents across the United States with text messages that pretend to be from toll road operators. For many who receive these messages, its an easy and expensive trap to fall into.The scam begins when people receive a message claiming they have unpaid tolls and may be charged fines. Scammers then ask for card details and a one-time password sent via SMS to steal their money. Security researchers believe that Chinese smishing groups are behind this scam, selling SMS-based phishing kits to thousands of scammers.Enter the giveaway by signing up for myfree newsletter. Fake toll road scam text (Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson)What you need to know about the fake toll scamAs reported byKrebsOnSecurity, the scam begins with a text message claiming to be from a toll road operator, such as E-ZPass or SunPass. The message warns about unpaid tolls and the possibility of fines, forcing recipients to act quickly. Victims are directed to a fake website mimicking the toll operators site, where they are asked to provide sensitive information, including payment card details and one-time passwords.Security researchers have traced the scam to Chinese smishing groups known for creating and selling sophisticated SMS phishing kits. One such kit, "Lighthouse," makes it easy for scammers to spoof toll road operators in multiple states. These kits are designed to trick users into sharing financial information, which is then used to commit fraud.Reports of these phishing attacks have surfaced across the U.S., targeting users of toll systems like EZDriveMA in Massachusetts, SunPass in Florida and the North Texas Toll Authority in Texas. Similar scams have been reported in states including California, Colorado, Connecticut, Minnesota and Washington. The phishing pages are mobile-optimized and wont load on non-mobile devices, making them even more deceptive. Fake toll road scam text (Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson)Phishing scams are evolvingRecent advancements in phishing kits include better deliverability through integration with Apple iMessage and Androids RCS technology, bypassing traditional SMS spam filters. These methods increase the likelihood of victims receiving and engaging with fraudulent messages. The phishing sites are operated dynamically in real time by criminals, making them harder to detect and shut down. Even individuals who dont own a vehicle have reported receiving these messages, indicating random targeting. Illustration of a scammer sending toll road texts to scam victims (Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson)7 ways to stay safe from toll scam messagesBy staying vigilant and following the steps below, you can protect yourself from falling victim to toll scams.1) Verify directly with toll operators:If you receive a message about unpaid tolls or fines, do not click on any links. Instead, visit the official website of your toll operator or contact their customer service directly to verify the claim.2) Install strong antivirus software: The best way to safeguard yourself from malicious links is to have strong antivirus software installed on all your devices. This protection can also alert you to phishing emails and ransomware scams, keeping your personal information and digital assets safe.Get my picks for the best 2025 antivirus protection winners for your Windows, Mac, Android and iOS devices.3) Do not share personal information:Never provide sensitive details like payment card information, Social Security numbers or one-time passwords via text or unverified websites. Legitimate toll operators will not request such information through SMS.4) Enable two-factor authentication (2FA):Use2FA for your accounts whenever possible. This adds an extra layer of protection by requiring two forms of verification, reducing the risk of unauthorized access even if some details are compromised.5) Be wary of urgency in messages:Scammers often create a sense of urgency, claiming immediate action is required to avoid penalties. Take a moment to assess the situation and verify the legitimacy of the message through official channels.6) Report suspicious messages:If you suspect a phishing attempt, report it to the Federal Trade Commission or the FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center. Include details like the senders phone number and any links in the message. Additionally, inform your mobile carrier to help block similar scams.7) Use a personal data removal service: Employ a reputable data removal service to reduce your online footprint and minimize the risk of scammers obtaining your personal information. These services can help remove your data from various data broker sites, making it harder for scammers to target you with personalized scams. While no service promises to remove all your data from the internet, having a removal service is great if you want to constantly monitor and automate the process of removing your information from hundreds of sites continuously over a longer period of time.Check out my top picks for data removal services here.Kurts key takeawayIts deeply concerning how these scams are becoming increasingly sophisticated and widespread. Its no longer just about random phishing attempts. These are carefully crafted schemes designed to exploit our trust in systems we rely on daily. The fact that scammers can impersonate toll road operators so convincingly is alarming, and it shows how vulnerable we are to such attacks. It frustrates me to think of how many people may fall victim to these tactics, losing their hard-earned money.Have you recently received a suspicious text message claiming to be from a toll road operator or any other service? How did you react? Let us know by writing us atCyberguy.com/Contact.For more of my tech tips and security alerts, subscribe to my free CyberGuy Report Newsletter by heading to Cyberguy.com/Newsletter.Ask Kurt a question or let us know what stories you'd like us to cover.Follow Kurt on his social channels:Answers to the most asked CyberGuy questions:New from Kurt:Copyright 2024 CyberGuy.com.All rights reserved. Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson is an award-winning tech journalist who has a deep love of technology, gear and gadgets that make life better with his contributions for Fox News & FOX Business beginning mornings on "FOX & Friends." Got a tech question? Get Kurts free CyberGuy Newsletter, share your voice, a story idea or comment at CyberGuy.com.

Fujitsu has been forced to escalate problems with a key IT system used by Airtricity in the Republic of Ireland (RoI) to avoid potentially impacting the energy companys customers, Computer Weekly has learned.Fears over the billing application developed for SSE Airtricity RoI by Fujitsu have raised alarms in Fujitsus leadership.According to a source, the issues should have been fixed as part of a Fujitsu initiative, known as Project Ivy, launched after the Post Office Horizon scandal, which seeks to tackle critical software defects, and improve testing and governance across its systems. It has had to be escalated for urgent attention before it does real harm to customers, they said.Fujitsu said its reviewing its software for potential problems in response to the Post Office Horizon scandal. In his fifth witness statement to the scandal public inquiry, Paul Patterson, the CEO of Fujitsu in Europe, stated that the company is addressing the remediation of systems and technology under the Rebuilding Trust Programme.There is no suggestion the Hansen system is causing the issues. According to the source, the billing application is separate from Hansens billing system but integrates with it, processing key data before passing it on for billing and account reconciliation.After multiple attempts by Computer Weekly, Fujitsu refused to comment on the alleged problems with its application. SSE Airtricity said: The other SSE Airtricity services which utilise the all island billing system supplied by Hansen and the proprietary system supported by Fujitsu include the Republic of Ireland business. There are no issues related to system performance which are materially impacting customers.The source told Computer Weekly that Fujitsu is concerned, and that the issue has been escalated to Fujitsu in Japan.Fujitsu in crisisAirtricity would not comment on whether Fujitsu is addressing these issues, stating that any queries regarding Fujitsu business operations should be directed to the company itself, but Fujitsu refused to comment, citing customer confidentiality.In March 2024, Fujitsu closed down its Republic of Ireland business for new business after a review of the operations performance and market outlook, with the contract with SSE Airtricity transferred to the UK business.It is with regret that we have taken a difficult decision and plan not to pursue new business in the Irish office, the email stated. Going forward, Fujitsu plans to refocus its Irish operations on the fulfilment of existing customer contractual commitments.Fujitsu and Airtricity have a long relationship, with Fujitsu playing a key role in its operations across both Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. Fujitsu developed and integrated a Customer Information System (CIS), automated billing and customer communication processes and managed the system integration and selection of IT suppliers.In December 2023, a senior SSE Airtricity employee in RoI publicly praised Fujitsus role in supporting its operations, presenting a Certificate of Excellence to the IT development team on behalf of SSE Airtricitys business and IT customer support teams.The billing application concerns come months after Centrica chose not to award a deal worth about 45m to Fujitsu, citing concerns about the reputational damage stemming from its involvement in the Post Office scandal.Separately, last year, problems were experienced by SSE Airtricity customers when a CRM software migration caused service issues in Northern Ireland. The source told Computer Weekly: The CRM migration was part SSE Airtricity RoIs Project Genesis programme, which included upgrading core billing and CRM systems.Local reports described problems, which were unrelated to Fujitsu, being experienced by customers in Northern Ireland. SSE Airtricity said this happened during a CRM system migration.In November, The Belfast Telegraph reported that SSE Airtricity had sent elderly and vulnerable residents in a social housing development gas bills despite them not having gas boilers installed, and this continued even after the company was told as much.Airtricity said the issues in Northern Ireland have been resolved. SSE Airtricity Gas Northern Ireland undertook a CRM system migration to a new platform which was completed in May 2024 for all gas customers in Northern Ireland, said an SSE Airtricity spokesperson. We took a phased approach to migrating customers to the platform in order to minimise disruption. While some customers experienced service issues as the systems bedded in, these have since been resolved.

Amazon's latest 12th-generation Kindle Paperwhite Signature Edition has up to three months of battery life and the fastest page turns I've seen.

While digital books are a popular way to read your favorite series these days, choosing a Kindle over a standard tablet is simply a different experience. Their displays are based on comfortable reading, with e-ink technology and carefully considered brightness and contrast options, some of the main reasons why the Amazon Kindle range is popular. That's not to mention the covers and accessories you can buy for them, too. But which one should you choose? With different sizes available, anti-glare screens, and auto-adjusting backlights, it's easier than ever to read your favorite books indoors under mood lighting or outdoors in direct sunlight. Most Kindle tablets have fixed internal storage, but many support Amazon Cloud backup or microSD cards to store even more books and media.What is the best Kindle right now?We've broken down their features and price points to help you decide which is the best fit for your reading needs and budget. We tested the best Kindle readers available right now, and Amazon's base model Kindleis the best overall for its excellent battery life, easy readability, and faster page-turning speed. This model is available for $110. Keep reading to find the perfect Kindle model for you. Sort by All The best Kindle readers of 2025 Show less View now at Amazon The Kindle base model is the perfect device to house all of your favorite books. Thankfully, the newest generation has the best upgrades yet. The new version offers an extra color, Matcha Green, and improved page turning rates. Plus, the price is very justifiable at only $110, perfect for a self-care splurge or a holiday gift for your bibliophile loved ones.The size is small at around 6 inches, but it is convenient. You could stash it in your pocket to hop on the subway like ZDNET editor Nina Raemont did when she went hands-on with the product. You wouldn't have to worry about the charge, either, as the battery life lasts about six weeks.Review:Amazon Kindle (12th generation)"If you haven't purchased an e-reader before or are contemplating buying one for a loved one over the holidays, I'd without a doubt recommend this Kindle. It has all the features you'd need in a respectable e-reader, like a vivid display, reactive and quick speeds, a great battery life, and a lovely color, all for a good price," Nina said in her review.Amazon Kindle specs: Screen size:6.2 inches |Storage:16GB, Amazon Cloud |Battery life:Up to six weeks at 30 minutes per day |Lock screen ads:Yes, removable with fee |microSD card support:No Pros Faster turning speeds Six week battery life New color Portable Cons Shortest battery life No microSD card support The Kindle base model is the perfect device to house all of your favorite books. Thankfully, the newest generation has the best upgrades yet. The new version offers an extra color, Matcha Green, and improved page turning rates. Plus, the price is very justifiable at only $110, perfect for a self-care splurge or a holiday gift for your bibliophile loved ones.The size is small at around 6 inches, but it is convenient. You could stash it in your pocket to hop on the subway like ZDNET editor Nina Raemont did when she went hands-on with the product. You wouldn't have to worry about the charge, either, as the battery life lasts about six weeks.Review:Amazon Kindle (12th generation)"If you haven't purchased an e-reader before or are contemplating buying one for a loved one over the holidays, I'd without a doubt recommend this Kindle. It has all the features you'd need in a respectable e-reader, like a vivid display, reactive and quick speeds, a great battery life, and a lovely color, all for a good price," Nina said in her review.Amazon Kindle specs: Screen size:6.2 inches |Storage:16GB, Amazon Cloud |Battery life:Up to six weeks at 30 minutes per day |Lock screen ads:Yes, removable with fee |microSD card support:No Read More Show Expert Take Show less Show less The Kindle Paperwhite is the bigger and better version of the base model Kindle. The display is about 7 inches, leaving lots of room for more words, larger pages, and more storage with a capacity of up to 32GB. The best part, however, is that the Kindle Paperwhite is an ad-free reader.Maria Diaz, a ZDNET writer, went hands-on with the device and preferred it over her current e-reader daily driver. While it's not full color, it has an automatically adjusting front light to go easy on your eyeballs. The battery life also boasts impressive performance with up to 12 weeks of charge.Review: Amazon Paperwhite (2024)"After two weeks of daily reading on a single charge, some days for up to three hours a day, my Kindle Paperwhite's battery is still at 32%. According to Amazon, the Kindle Paperwhite could last about 42 hours of reading with the brightness at 13," Maria said in her review.Charlie Osborne, another ZDNET contributor, always has her Paperwhite at hand when she travels. While she could use the Kindle app on her smartphone, she prefers the comfortable display of a Kindle.Overall, the Kindle Paperwhite is better for those who need more bells and whistles, such as longer battery life, larger screen, and storage capacity.Kindle Paperwhite specs:Screen size: 7 inches |Storage:16 or 32 GB |Battery life:Up to 12 weeks at 30 minutes per day |Lock screen ads:No |microSD card support:No Pros Lightweight Long battery life More storage Cons It's expensive Black and white The Kindle Paperwhite is the bigger and better version of the base model Kindle. The display is about 7 inches, leaving lots of room for more words, larger pages, and more storage with a capacity of up to 32GB. The best part, however, is that the Kindle Paperwhite is an ad-free reader.Maria Diaz, a ZDNET writer, went hands-on with the device and preferred it over her current e-reader daily driver. While it's not full color, it has an automatically adjusting front light to go easy on your eyeballs. The battery life also boasts impressive performance with up to 12 weeks of charge.Review: Amazon Paperwhite (2024)"After two weeks of daily reading on a single charge, some days for up to three hours a day, my Kindle Paperwhite's battery is still at 32%. According to Amazon, the Kindle Paperwhite could last about 42 hours of reading with the brightness at 13," Maria said in her review.Charlie Osborne, another ZDNET contributor, always has her Paperwhite at hand when she travels. While she could use the Kindle app on her smartphone, she prefers the comfortable display of a Kindle.Overall, the Kindle Paperwhite is better for those who need more bells and whistles, such as longer battery life, larger screen, and storage capacity.Kindle Paperwhite specs:Screen size: 7 inches |Storage:16 or 32 GB |Battery life:Up to 12 weeks at 30 minutes per day |Lock screen ads:No |microSD card support:No Read More Show Expert Take Show less Show less The $340 Kindle Scribe combines a digital library with a digital notebook. You can use the basic pen to create notes either through an app or on the book you're reading, making it convenient if you're studying for a test and want to organize what you're reading and your notes in one place. Additionally, you can upgrade to the Kindle Scribe Premium Pen to easily erase notes.The display is remarkable, with a high-resolution 10.2-inch screen. You'll also have access to ample storage options, and the battery life will let you read the next bestseller without worrying about finding the nearest plug for charging.Review:Amazon Kindle ScribeWhen Matthew Miller reviewed the Scribe last year, he called it his on-the-go note-taking tablet of choice. "My desire to find something that doesn't waste paper and also provides the ability to preserve and share my notes has been met with the Amazon Kindle Scribe," Miller said. He adds that the writing and erasing capabilities are top-tier, too, especially with the add-on Premium Pen.One Scribe owner on Reddit said that the wider screen is "a joy to read on," while other Redditors reported that the writing software is "half-baked" with minimal note-taking capabilities. So, if you're looking for a Kindle with a great screen and some beginner note-taking options, this one is for you.There is certainly room for improvement. Currently, you can export notes to a PDF and email them. However, sending notes to other programs like Microsoft Word would be ideal, as it will be part of a future software update. Additionally, we found that organizing your notes on the Kindle Scribe is impossible.Overall, it's an excellent foray into the digital note-taking market, and with future software updates, it should become one of the more popular models in the Kindle lineup.Kindle Scribe specs:Screen size:10.2 inches |Storage:16, 32, or 64GB |Battery life:Up to 6 weeks at 30 minutes per day |Lock screen ads:Yes, removable with fee |microSD card support:No Value for money 8 Storage 8 Performance 8 Display quality 8 Battery life 8 Pros You're able to sign documents, take notes, and draw Robust 10.2-inch screen Battery life for days Cons It's expensive Limited note-taking capabilities Kindle Scribe Best Kindle for note-taking 4 / 5 Score The $340 Kindle Scribe combines a digital library with a digital notebook. You can use the basic pen to create notes either through an app or on the book you're reading, making it convenient if you're studying for a test and want to organize what you're reading and your notes in one place. Additionally, you can upgrade to the Kindle Scribe Premium Pen to easily erase notes.The display is remarkable, with a high-resolution 10.2-inch screen. You'll also have access to ample storage options, and the battery life will let you read the next bestseller without worrying about finding the nearest plug for charging.Review:Amazon Kindle ScribeWhen Matthew Miller reviewed the Scribe last year, he called it his on-the-go note-taking tablet of choice. "My desire to find something that doesn't waste paper and also provides the ability to preserve and share my notes has been met with the Amazon Kindle Scribe," Miller said. He adds that the writing and erasing capabilities are top-tier, too, especially with the add-on Premium Pen.One Scribe owner on Reddit said that the wider screen is "a joy to read on," while other Redditors reported that the writing software is "half-baked" with minimal note-taking capabilities. So, if you're looking for a Kindle with a great screen and some beginner note-taking options, this one is for you.There is certainly room for improvement. Currently, you can export notes to a PDF and email them. However, sending notes to other programs like Microsoft Word would be ideal, as it will be part of a future software update. Additionally, we found that organizing your notes on the Kindle Scribe is impossible.Overall, it's an excellent foray into the digital note-taking market, and with future software updates, it should become one of the more popular models in the Kindle lineup.Kindle Scribe specs:Screen size:10.2 inches |Storage:16, 32, or 64GB |Battery life:Up to 6 weeks at 30 minutes per day |Lock screen ads:Yes, removable with fee |microSD card support:No Read More Show Expert Take Show less Show less The Kindle Colorsoft is the newest model in the Kindle lineup, and it brings what people have been asking for years: a full-color Kindle option. Compared to the full-color models other companies make, Amazon's Kindle Colorsoft offers the smoothest experience. If you like comics or manga, this Kindle would be perfect to take in the art as the artist intended.The full-color display performs well in the sun, too, as ZDNET writer Allison Murray tested it out herself. The device had no issues being visible in the sunlight, making it perfect for outdoor reading. It's also water-resistant, so you could also read poolside or in the bath.Review: Kindle Colorsoft"I have virtually no complaints with this Kindle except perhaps its small size. The size itself is easy and comfortable to hold, but reading color books or magazines, a bigger size like that of the Boox Note Air C 3's 10.3-inch display makes a greater impact, and you can really see and appreciate the color images better when seeing the entire page," said Allison in her review.If you need a colorful e-reader, look no further than the new Kindle Colorsoft.Kindle Paperwhite specs: Screen size: 7inches |Storage:16 or 32 GB |Battery life:Up to 8 weeks at 30 minutes per day |Lock screen ads:No |microSD card support:No Pros Wireless charging Full-color Cons A tablet for only reading Could be bigger The Kindle Colorsoft is the newest model in the Kindle lineup, and it brings what people have been asking for years: a full-color Kindle option. Compared to the full-color models other companies make, Amazon's Kindle Colorsoft offers the smoothest experience. If you like comics or manga, this Kindle would be perfect to take in the art as the artist intended.The full-color display performs well in the sun, too, as ZDNET writer Allison Murray tested it out herself. The device had no issues being visible in the sunlight, making it perfect for outdoor reading. It's also water-resistant, so you could also read poolside or in the bath.Review: Kindle Colorsoft"I have virtually no complaints with this Kindle except perhaps its small size. The size itself is easy and comfortable to hold, but reading color books or magazines, a bigger size like that of the Boox Note Air C 3's 10.3-inch display makes a greater impact, and you can really see and appreciate the color images better when seeing the entire page," said Allison in her review.If you need a colorful e-reader, look no further than the new Kindle Colorsoft.Kindle Paperwhite specs: Screen size: 7inches |Storage:16 or 32 GB |Battery life:Up to 8 weeks at 30 minutes per day |Lock screen ads:No |microSD card support:No Read More Show Expert Take Show less Show less View now at Amazon Let's be honest: Kindles can be quite pricey. Plus, there is the fact that it is a device solely for the purpose of reading. Justifying that heavy price tag is hard, especially when you could buy a device that could do other things.That's where a tablet comes into play. Amazon also makes tablets you can read on, watch entertainment, use productivity apps, and play games. The Amazon Fire HD 10 is great for that purpose, especially because it has a reasonable price tag of $140.The best part is that you can download the Kindle app to the device and read books like you would on a Kindle. The only downside is that the tablet does not have the same battery life and page-turning speed. If anything, adding too much to the device could potentially slow it down more.Also:Amazon Fire HD 10The display is also brighter than its earlier versions. ZDNET contributor Jason Cipriani tested it out himself, and found it to be a good device for entertainment rather than productivity. Therefore, it is perfect for solely running a Kindle function.Amazon Fire HD 10specs: Screen size: 10 inches |Storage:32GB or 64GB |Battery life:13hours |Lock screen ads:Yes, removable with fee |microSD card support:Up to 1TB Pros Up to 1TB microSD card support Full-color Cons On the heavy side Slow Let's be honest: Kindles can be quite pricey. Plus, there is the fact that it is a device solely for the purpose of reading. Justifying that heavy price tag is hard, especially when you could buy a device that could do other things.That's where a tablet comes into play. Amazon also makes tablets you can read on, watch entertainment, use productivity apps, and play games. The Amazon Fire HD 10 is great for that purpose, especially because it has a reasonable price tag of $140.The best part is that you can download the Kindle app to the device and read books like you would on a Kindle. The only downside is that the tablet does not have the same battery life and page-turning speed. If anything, adding too much to the device could potentially slow it down more.Also:Amazon Fire HD 10The display is also brighter than its earlier versions. ZDNET contributor Jason Cipriani tested it out himself, and found it to be a good device for entertainment rather than productivity. Therefore, it is perfect for solely running a Kindle function.Amazon Fire HD 10specs: Screen size: 10 inches |Storage:32GB or 64GB |Battery life:13hours |Lock screen ads:Yes, removable with fee |microSD card support:Up to 1TB Read More Show Expert Take Show less The best Kindles, compared Best Kindle readerPriceScreen sizeBattery lifemicro SD card supportKindle (12th generation)$1106.2 inches6 weeksNoKindle Paperwhite$2007 inches12 weeksNoKindle Scribe$4209 inches12 weeksNoKindle Colorsoft$2807 inches8 weeksNoAmazon Fire HD 10$14010 inches13 hoursUp to 1TB*Lowest price at the time of writing. Please note that prices may vary based on retailer and available promotions, sales, or discounts. Show more Which is the right Kindle for you? When shopping for a new Kindle reader, aside from price, you should also consider how much storage space you'll want or need for your digital bookshelf. The Kindle Paperwhite has 8GB of storage, which is enough for hundreds of books, audiobooks, PDF files, and graphic novels. On the other hand, the Kindle Paperwhite Signature Edition has 32GB of storage, which allows your digital bookshelf to store almost 14,000 titles. Furthermore, no matter which model of Kindle reader you use, many support either microSD cards up to 1TB or cloud syncing for near-infinite storage.Below is a table that outlines which Kindle corresponds to specific needs:Choose this Kindle reader...If you need...Kindle (12th generation)A basic reader that is easy to bring anywhere. It's affordable and will suit casual users.Kindle PaperwhiteA model with more bells and whistles than the basic Kindle model. If you want something more modern and lighter than the typical Kindle, this could be best for you.Kindle ScribeA Kindle that can be used to take notes and read. If you want to combine reading with a note-taking system, consider the Scribe.Kindle ColorsoftA reading device that is full-color, which is best for reading comic books and manga.Amazon Fire HD 10A cheap tablet and alternative to a Kindle, but performs just as well. If you don't mind exchanging a longer battery life for productivity and entertainment apps, it might be right for you. Show more Factors to consider when choosing a Kindle Price:This list's Kindles and Kindle alternatives range from $120 to $450. With more features, like drawing capabilities, strong battery life, and ample storage, you will pay a higher price.Storage capacity: The point of a device like a Kindle is to store as many books in one compact device as possible. We looked at Kindles with vast storage capacities that can hold thousands of titles.Environmental factors:Lots of models offer water resistance, so you can read in whatever environment you're in -- whether that's on a sandy beach or in a bathtub. However, remember that Kindles are still electronic devices, so they should not be exposed to extreme conditions.Display: Kindles come with a variety of display sizes, so consider what size is right for you.Kids: If you intend to allow your children to use a Kindle, or you plan on purchasing one for your child, you might want to opt for a model designed with kid safety and security in mind.Color: It's a minor consideration, but if you want your Kindle in a specific color, you might be limited in the model you ultimately select. Alternatively, there is a massive range of covers available in different colors and patterns.Battery life: The e-readers on this list should last you a few days, ideally a few weeks, before recharging. Keep in mind that turning off Wi-Fi when not in use can drastically improve your Kindle's battery life.Also: How to buy books on Kindle Show more How did we choose these Kindle readers? ZDNET only recommends products we have used and can speak to. We do this by spending a few weeks constantly using the products we write about and evaluating them for performance, battery life, usability, special features, and more.We focus on the needs of most consumers and the factors we consider to be the most important in choosing a Kindle. This may include display size, readability, and storage.Then, we write a product spotlight or review of the product and add it to one of these best lists. Each month, we evaluate which products still deserve a spot on this list and switch out older models or those out of stock with newer ones. Show more Kindle FAQs What's the point of a Kindle? If you have only ever read books through physical copies, not digital e-readers, you might think buying a Kindle is a waste of money. There's the argument that you don't even need the Kindle e-reader when you can download the app on your phone and read digital books and magazines from there.Sure, that's a good point. But many readers see having the Kindle app on a phone as more distracting, while a Kindle whose sole purpose is to function as an e-reader is distraction-free.Then there's the fact that carrying paperbacks while you travel, commute to work, or lug around in your small bag can get heavy, and sometimes, we don't have the space for every book we'd like to read. A Kindle is slim, lightweight, and easy to plop into a purse or even put in your coat pocket.Holding a physical book is not the same as using an e-reader, but for certain use cases, like portability and space optimization, a Kindle e-reader reigns supreme. Show more Can I bring my Kindle to the beach? Yes, you certainly can. Many readers enjoy taking a Kindle to the beach instead of a paperback book, thanks to select Kindle models' waterproof build and, specifically, their glare-free displays, making reading in strong sunlight a comfortable experience.A thin Kindle could be a splendid alternative if your beach bag is too heavy for a thick book. Plus, you don't have to choose between two or three books to read -- you can bring them all on your Kindle. Show more How many books will 32GB hold? It all depends on what kinds of books you want to download, as different media files have different sizes. For example, a single comic book issue file can be as small as 650MB, while a graphic novel can be up to 1.5GB of storage. On the other hand, plain-text files like novels, nonfiction titles, and even school textbooks have fairly small sizes, allowing you to have up to 13,500 books in your digital library with 32GB of storage space.However, longer titles like War and Peace by Leo Tolstoy will have a larger file size than something like F. Scott Fitzgerald's The Great Gatsby. If you like longer reads, you'll probably store fewer books, though you should still be able to download and store thousands of titles, so the size of files outside of image-heavy titles isn't something you will likely need to worry about.You can even download audiobooks from the Kindle app, although the audio files are often large. This means that a 32GB Kindle will only hold about 150 audiobooks, depending on the length of the recording. Show more What's the difference between the Kindle Paperwhite and a regular Kindle? The Kindle Paperwhite boasts a more prominent display, a warm light adjustment feature, longer battery life, and an improved, waterproof build, so you should expect to pay more. Show more Do Kindles offer audiobooks? All Kindles offer text-to-voice narration through Alexa. But if you want to buy an audiobook specifically, you'll have to use Amazon's Audible. Audible is integrated into all newer Kindle models, and you can often take advantage of free trials or discount subscriptions during sales events. Show more Does a Kindle need Wi-Fi? For certain things, like downloading new books and accessing the internet, yes. But if you have already downloaded the book you'd like to read on your Kindle, you can read it without a Wi-Fi connection.I take my Kindle on the subway, where there's no Wi-Fi connection, and have no problem reading my favorite titles. For other ZDNET authors, including Charlie Osborne, a Kindle is a must on airplanes. Keeping a Kindle on airplane mode will also improve its battery life. Show more Are Kindles better than books? There is no objective answer to this. You may prefer a Kindle if you hate lugging around heavy books. A Kindle simply offers an alternative and a way to digitally store your book collection -- but, sometimes, there's nothing better than a hard copy. Show more Do I need a Kindle to read Kindle books? Nope! Whether you have an iOS or an Android, you can download the Kindle app from the App Store or Google Play store and start reading on it. This allows you to buy and download digital books to your phone or tablet.Also: The best tablets you can buy: Apple, Samsung, and Amazon compared Show more Can I get Kindle books for free? You can get Kindle books for free. Whether you're looking to fill out your library or to finally get around to reading those classics that were assigned back in your high school English class, it's pretty easy to find free Kindle books. Lots of classic literature is in the public domain, which just means that they are no longer protected by copyright laws and can be provided for free. If you're looking for new titles, you don't have to spend a fortune. And many free Kindle books can be found on none other than Amazon itself. All you have to do is go to Amazon and search "free Kindle books."Also: How to get (great) free books on KindleYou also can find thousands of titles for very low prices, sometimes as low as 99 cents. However, these are often self-published works. And while self-publishing is a great way for writers to get their work in the hands of readers without going through literary agents and publishing houses, it also means that sometimes the work isn't entirely up to snuff. So if you're tempted to buy that ultra-low-priced title, make sure you read reviews first so you don't end up buying something you won't like. Show more Alternatives to KindlesMeet the experts ZDNET sourced external industry experts for this article. Here is more information about them:Ayman Chaudhary: Digital creator (@aymansbooks) on TikTok with over 900,000 followers. She creates content and memes about novels and recommends the books she reads on the platform. Show more ZDNETs Tablet Guide Tablet Roundups Tablets Reviewed & Compared Tablets Explained ZDNET Recommends

The Steam Deck Jason EvangelhoI never expected to write an article directly comparing the Steam Deck with the Switch 2. After all, they exist in completely different universes and ecosystems. One is a PC-based gaming handheld with access to tens of thousands of games spanning more than 20 years, and the other is a console you buy primarily to experience the wonder and whimsy of Nintendos excellent first-party titles. Right?Frankly, its always been logical to recommend buying both. The PC + Nintendo combo tends to cover the bases for enthusiasts who want deep access to the majority of games out there. Want to enjoy Nintendo exclusives? Get a Switch. Want an affordable handheld for playing the vast library of PC games on Steam? Grab yourself a Steam Deck.But a perfect storm has been coalescing since mid-2024, threatening to make the Steam Deck more and more irrelevant in a growing sea of powerful competitors. And it seems bitterly ironic that a legendary game franchise with an historic PC heritage might be the final, crushing wave that drowns the Steam Deck.Let me explain.Switch 2 Vs Steam Deck: A Tale of DOOM?That perfect storm I mentioned? Its the growing list of games that are simply too demanding to run properly if at all on Steam Deck. That list is punctuated by Indiana Jones And The Great Circle. Last years terrific Indy adventure from Machine Games and Bethesda was the first game in history to require a GPU with built-in ray tracing. There is no menu option to disable it.MORE FOR YOUWhile its true that the Steam Decks processor does have basic ray tracing support, actually flipping it on in games tends to bring the system to its knees. So when its mandatory, as it with the demanding Indiana Jones And The Great Circle, its an unplayable mess. As such, Valve lists it as Unsupported on Steam Deck.But now the second game in history to require ray tracing has entered the picture, and thats DOOM: The Dark Ages. Combined with the games requirement of an Nvidia RTX 2060 Super at minimum, this likely spells, well, doom, for the Steam Decks chances of running it.More games requiring built-in Ray Tracing are sure to follow in 2025.Also, if youre keeping track, thats another Bethesda game. And Bethesda is now owned by Microsoft, which just pledged its enthusiastic support for Nintendos Switch 2.Microsofts Phil Spencer recently said that Xbox is really looking forward to supporting them with the games that we have. This statement follows multiple claims from industry insiders that most, if not all, Xbox games will get ported to Switch 2. And it certainly lines up with Microsofts new everything is an Xbox strategy.Beyond the new DOOM and new Indy games, graphically intensive titles like Space Marine 2 and Final Fantasy VII Rebirth are barely playable on Valves terrific but aging handheld. If a Steam Deck is the only viable device you have for PC gaming, you can muddle through but it will be a pitiful playthrough riddled with slowdown and blurry textures.So, wait a minute. A legendary PC staple like DOOM skipping the Steam Deck but likely running well on Switch 2? It feels like weve jumped into an alternative timeline. But theres ample evidence to support this.Switch 2 Will Have Strong Ray Tracing SupportIts a widely held belief that the Switch 2 is powered by an Nvidia Ampere GPU derived from the companys 30 Series of RTX graphics cards, which includes 2nd-generation Ray Tracing support from the company that pioneered it. You better believe that Nvidia wants one of its flagship features to shine brightly on a device with the potential to sell more than 100 million units.Consider also that the original Switch is powered by the Tegra X1, which is downright ancient at this point, yet somehow DOOM 2016 exists on Nintendos 8-year-old console. Now consider that the Switch 2s oft-rumored T239 processor has 500% more of Nvidias CUDA Cores than the Tegra X1 does. Five. Hundred. Percent.All of this adds up to a sobering situation for Valves Steam Deck, and indeed for devices like the Legion Go and ROG Ally as well. It seems increasingly possible that were headed towards a reality where the Switch 2 will be home to not just the usual dose of regular Nintendo exclusives, but also home to major 3rd-party releases that Nintendos handheld competition cant even launch.Like I said, it feels like weve jumped timelines. But the Switch 2 seems poised to give the current slate of PC-powered handhelds a very loud wake-up call.

Photo by Solen Feyissa on UnsplashUNSPLASH.COMAs the world fully jumps on board with generative AI tools like ChatGPT, the next chapter of artificial intelligence is already arriving: AI agents. These tools can help companies accomplish multi-step tasks without human input. Though fears about these autonomous agents taking jobs arent unfounded, hopefully, companies will utilize them to free up human employees to focus on more meaningful, higher-impact work.As Sam Altman predicts, [I]n 2025, we may see the first AI agents join the workforce and materially change the output of companies. We continue to believe that iteratively putting great tools in the hands of people leads to great, broadly-distributed outcomes.At Jotform, were excited to embrace this new wave of AI. Were currently developing our own AI agent, designed with the same mission as always: to make users lives easier. One area where AI agents can have a profound impact is sales and marketing. AI agents cant truly replace salespeople, but they can optimize efficiency, boost sales, and create better customer experiences. Heres a closer look at how AI agents can enhance the sales process.24/7 Customer EngagementA standout benefit of AI agents is their ability to independently and effectively communicate with customersat any hour, day or night. Imagine this: a parent wakes up in the middle of the night realizing they forgot to buy an essential component for their kid's science project. They need to order it immediatelytime is of the essence so they cant mess up. Then, they can return to bed with peace of mind.This is where an AI agent shines. While business owners and employees are fast asleep, the AI can handle customer questions, personalize responses, and suggest the perfect productall in real-time. Tools like SalesCloser AI can conduct Zoom calls and even screen-share while interacting with customers, enhancing connection and understanding.MORE FOR YOUOne of the things I love about using AI for customer interactions: people feel less self-conscious. Customers often feel more comfortable asking silly questions or repeating themselves compared to speaking with a human, allowing them to focus on getting the information they needwith confidence.By tailoring interactions and being available around the clock, AI agents can enhance customer engagement and drive higher conversion rates.Proactive Lead GenerationA question Ive been hearing a lot lately: whats the difference between AI agents and the generative AI that weve (just) gotten used to? Consider the crucial sales step of generating leads. Generative AI tools like ChatGPT can execute tedious parts of the process. With the right prompts, you can ask it to create contentemail drafts, blog posts, website copy, and morethat can attract potential leads.AI agents, on the other hand, arent waiting for your instructions. They can proactively engage with leads, answer questions, and guide them through the early stages of (hopefully) becoming a customer. For example, an AI agent can chat with a visitor to your website and schedule a demo with a human salesperson for later that week. While theyre helping a potential customer, they can ask questions to evaluate them and determine if theyre a strong candidate for a given product or service.Thats another advantage of AI agents: whereas generative AI is usually task-oriented, an AI agent can accomplish various types of tasks at oncelike chatting, qualifying leads, and scheduling.Elevating Sales Forecasting With Real-Time Data As any entrepreneur knows, sales forecasting is crucial. It helps leaders get a clear idea of the organizations future revenue so they can make more informed decisions, allocate resources more effectively, and plan strategically. Here, AI agents can be a valuable asset. For example, a website chatbot that engages with prospective customers while gathering data about their needs, preferences, and timelines. As these conversations take place, the AI agent updates sales records, qualifies leads, and refines forecastsall while your team focuses on other priorities.AI agents can also autonomously follow up with leads and keep them moving through the pipeline, ensuring no lead slips through the cracks. They can automatically nudge prospects, qualify and score leads based on ongoing interactions, and even send follow-up reminders to sales reps.While generative AI tools can also be helpfulexecuting tasks like analyzing historical data and creating contentAI agents take forecasting to the next level by engaging with prospective customers. This real-time interaction allows businesses to make more accurate revenue projections, streamline their sales pipelines, and adapt quickly based on customer behavior and needs.Automating Administrative Tasks And Freeing Sales Teams for Meaningful WorkIf youve read my work, then you know that I strongly advocate for automating as many tedious, manual tasks as possible. Freeing yourself from low-impact busywork is the secret to recapturing precious time in your workdayso you can stop doing more and instead, do more work that matters.AI agents can act like virtual assistants to proactively handle manual work that tends to bog down sales teams. Take data entry: an AI agent can automatically update your CRM records based on its customer interactions. Or scheduling tasks: an AI agent can coordinate various parties calendars and set up calls and meetings. Or follow-up emails: an AI agent can send personalized follow-up emails to prospects without requiring any human input. Finally, AI agents can help wrap deals faster by handling some of the administrative closing processes.All of this empowers sales teams to focus more on work that only they can do: like developing tailored solutions and building genuine relationships with customers and potential customers.

Choose your answer and the correct choice will be revealed. Correct Answer:"Interface Manager"Now let's learn somethingFirst developed in 1981 by computer scientist Chase Bishop, the software project was initially called "Interface Manager." This name reflected its primary purpose as a graphical interface manager designed to enhance the usability of the MS-DOS operating system.However, marketers at Microsoft recognized that the name "Windows" would resonate more with consumers, as it succinctly described the software's defining feature: the ability to manage multiple graphical windows on a single screen. The project was officially renamed, and the software was introduced to the public in 1983 under its new name, "Windows." It was envisioned as a graphical user interface (GUI) overlay for MS-DOS, which ran on IBM PCs and compatible systems.At the time, GUIs were a groundbreaking innovation. Unlike the command-line interface of DOS, Windows provided users with an intuitive way to interact with their computers using icons, menus, and windows. However, early versions of Windows functioned differently than the full-fledged operating systems we use today.Until the release of Windows 95 about a decade later, the operating system was essentially an .exe that took over the screen of DOS.Windows 1.0 was released in November 1985, marking the beginning of what would become one of the most influential software platforms in computing history. The first version of Windows included a suite of applications designed to demonstrate the capabilities of the new interface. These included programs such as Calculator, Calendar, Clipboard Viewer, Clock, Notepad, Paint, Reversi (a simple game), Cardfile, Terminal, and Write (a rudimentary word processor).However, the user experience was limited compared to later versions. For instance, windows could not overlap each other but were instead tiled on the screen, a restriction that made multitasking cumbersome. This limitation was addressed in Windows 2.0, which introduced the ability to overlap and resize windows, laying the foundation for the modern desktop environment.The launch of Windows 1.0 was met with mixed reviews. While it was praised for its forward-thinking design, it initially struggled to gain widespread adoption, partly due to its performance limitations and the need for more powerful hardware. Despite these early challenges, Windows 1.0 laid the foundation for Microsoft's future dominance in the PC market and significantly influenced the trajectory of personal computing for decades to come.