Powder bed fusion (PBF) 3D printer manufacturer Xact Metal has recorded its second-highest order revenue in Q4 2024, citing increased demand for its metal 3D printers, while also marking a production milestone in December with the shipment of its 150th unit.CEO Juan Mario Gomez attributed the revenue growth to a targeted focus on industry applications, particularly in tooling. He noted that the XM200G metal 3D printer has gained traction in the injection molding sector, where both new and repeat customers have integrated metal 3D printing into their production processes.A partnership with Uddeholm, a tool steel manufacturer, has further expanded the companys presence in mold-making. Gomez highlighted that pairing the XM200G printer with Uddeholms Corrax metal powder, a corrosion-resistant material, has provided manufacturers with an alternative to conventional mold production methods. According to him, industry response to the combination has been positive.Beyond tooling, a shift toward decentralized metal AM has contributed to order growth, with smaller manufacturers integrating the technology. The manufacturers 150th 3D printer was delivered to Zero Tolerance, a plastic injection mold machine shop based in Clinton Township, Michigan. According to Gomez, orders from both new and returning customers reflect a broader transition toward metal 3D printing as a viable alternative to traditional machining.We are excited to see what Steve Michon, the owner, and the team at Zero Tolerance will do with their XM200G metal 3D printer, as they continue to invest in the highest performance machinery and tooling to succeed in the production mold industry, he said.Zero Tolerances Steve Michon. Photo via Xact Metal.Xact Metals progress over the yearsSpeaking with 3D Printing Industry, the CEO recalled his transition from a successful career in aviation to leading a metal 3D printing startup.With an engineering background and a tenure at General Electric (GE), where he helped grow a business to $250 million in sales, he saw an opportunity to bring metal AM to a broader market. In 2017, he co-founded Xact Metal alongside two engineers from Penn State University (PSU), aiming to develop an affordable yet functional metal 3D printer.Early days came with challenges, especially during the pandemic when quarterly orders plummeted to $10,000. Despite this, Gomez resisted downsizing and instead focused on financial stability, a strategy shaped by his experience at GE.As demand rebounded, the company pivoted from an XY scanning system to a galvo-based architecture, improving print speed and productivity. The shift laid the foundation for introducing higher-powered machines like the XM200G and XM300G.A growing number of small and mid-sized manufacturers, particularly in injection molding, have adopted Xact Metals printers as a lower-cost alternative to high-end industrial systems.Expanding its reseller network has been a key focus, ensuring localized support for customers. Partnerships with companies like Oqton have also brought AI-driven enhancements to its machines, aligning with the industrys push toward automation.Moreover, GPAINNOVA America partnered with Xact Metal to offer an end-to-end metal 3D printing solution, incorporating GPAINNOVAs DryLyte Technology, a patented dry electropolishing method, for post-processing. This integration sought to simplify and enhance metal 3D printing by automating finishing processes, making the technology more accessible across industries.Xact Metals team. Photo via Xact Metal.Increasing metal AM adoptionAs metal 3D printing gains traction across industries, companies are seeking to refine workflows and expand its adoption.Last year, Belgian 3D printing bureau Materialise and Renishaw partnered to improve the efficiency of Renishaws additive manufacturing systems. Having combined Materialise build processor and Magics software with the RenAM 500 series, this move sought to create a more seamless and controlled production process.Manufacturers will have access to advanced tools that simplify complex geometries and fine-tune print settings, helping to cut production time while increasing precision. With a stronger, more flexible workflow, this partnership is expected to drive wider adoption of metal 3D printing across various industries.Two years ago, Oerlikon AM, a division of Oerlikon, partnered with US-based 3D printer manufacturer 3D Systems to improve metal AM scalability. By integrating 3D Systems direct metal printing technology with Oerlikon AMs expertise in surface engineering, the partnership aimed to accelerate industrial adoption, particularly within the semiconductor and aerospace sectors.As part of this initiative, Oerlikon AM expanded its manufacturing capacity by acquiring a fourth 3D Systems DMP Factory 500 printer, reinforcing its ability to produce high-precision metal components for specialized applications.Who won the 20243D Printing Industry Awards?All the news fromFormnext 2024.To stay up to date with the latest 3D printing news, dont forget to subscribe to the 3D Printing Industry newsletter or follow us on Twitter, or like our page on Facebook.While youre here, why not subscribe to our Youtube channel? Featuring discussion, debriefs, video shorts, and webinar replays.Featured image shows Xact Metals team. Photo via Xact Metal.

Investment in additive manufacturing during 2024 fell compared to 2023 levels, with deal counts slightly higher in 2024 than in 2023 but funding down from the industrys previous peaks. 3D printer manufacturers secured more financing in 2024 than the previous year, largely through a handful of sizeable transactions. Application-focused firms and companies integrating 3D printing into their core offerings are also attracting funds, while materials and software investments remain modest.Valuations appear more rational, and investors are applying greater scrutiny to ensure sustainable returns. The emphasis is shifting from broad promises toward tangible results, particularly in delivering reliable, consistent output. AI is seen as a potential solution to improve quality assurance, reduce errors, and streamline production.Despite frequent predictions, industry consolidation has not accelerated. Large deals have not substantially reshaped the landscape, and new entrants continue to emerge, leaving many users confused by a crowded marketplace. Analysts foresee no major shifts in the investment climate for 2025 and expect funding to remain steady rather than surge, with growth likely to occur in application-based segments.I spoke to Sona Dadhania, a Principal Technology Analyst at IDTechEx, to learn more.According to industry analyst Dadhania, The big drop came between 2022 and 2023, leaving the sector with far less capital than when it commanded sums in excess of $1.2bn through much of 2021 and 2022.That wave of investment has since receded as venture capital firms recalibrate after what Dadhania calls a string of failures. The sectors tightening has not spared additive manufacturing. Instead, it now faces more sober evaluations as investors weigh the reliability of returns and re-examine where to deploy their capital.Sona Dadhania, a Principal Technology Analyst at IDTechEx. Photo via IDTechEx.2024 Total 3D Printing FundingAdditive manufacturing investment during 2024 was a story of steady deal counts, limited headline-grabbing transactions, and a shifting focus toward hardware innovators and specialist applications. According to IDTechExs data, total funding for the sector in 2024 stood at around US$650m, spread across approximately 40 deals. This is about half the level reached during the investment frenzy that followed the pandemic. The space had a lot of excitement coming out of the pandemic, Dadhania. She attributes the earlier surge both to temporary enthusiasm over new applications exposed by supply-chain disruptions and to a broader flood of venture capital during 2021 and 2022. Most of the value is predicated on a handful of very, very large deals, says Dadhania. She singles out 6Ks US$82m September round, Restor3ds US$70m, and Magnus Metals US$75m as significant contributors.While the aggregate number of deals appears stable, the composition of investment has changed. Printer manufacturers, many pursuing novel production methods, have secured around US$315m in funding this year, over double the 2023 sum. They got a lot more money this year, says Dadhania. This group includes firms introducing unconventional printing technologies that promise to serve previously untapped users. While their solutions may require customers to adapt entire workflows and supply chains, investors seem persuaded by the potential to target niche applications that established players have overlooked.Outside printer hardware, applications-focused firms and AM-intensive producers collected about US$160m. These include businesses that integrate additive manufacturing into their core operations, producing aerospace components or healthcare implants. Notable examples include Conflux Technology, which employs advanced printing techniques to produce heat exchangers. Materials companies, meanwhile, accounted for roughly US$115m in investment, largely driven by a few major rounds, notably involving 6K and Equispheres.Software-oriented deals this year are minimal, capturing only a small fraction of total investment, Backflip AI is one notable expectation here, with a $30 million round led by NEA and a16z.A 3D printed copper mug designed in Backflip. Image via Backflip.Steady returns on the horizon?Investors appear to be taking a more measured approach to valuations and expectations for returns in additive manufacturing. Most of the deals make sense, says IDTechExs Principal Technology Analyst, Sona Dadhania. She notes that during the investment peaks between 2020 and 2022, some ventures raised hundreds of millions in a manner that seemed difficult to justify. Multiples have since returned to more rational levels, with startups now often seeking modest, incremental funding to spur organic growth.This recalibration suits the technologys long timelines and operational complexity. Hardware-focused businesses cannot rely on rapid scaling by adding cloud servers; they must secure trusted supply chains, develop application expertise, train engineers, and prove their systems cost-effectiveness before convincing customers to invest in additional equipment. If the investor is not as familiar with the timespan it takes to develop those applications, warns Dadhania, they might be expecting returns much faster than is realistic.The shift toward more sustainable investments could foster long-term stability, preventing early-stage firms from becoming trapped by inflated valuations. Instead of chasing aggressive growth targets to justify massive funding rounds, these enterprises can focus on technical achievements and incremental market penetration. The result may be fewer dramatic funding announcements but a more balanced industry that builds a track record of steady returns.Winning the race: break-out leadersStartups targeting specific verticals appear better positioned to stand out, as many 3D printing firms have struggled to gain traction across multiple sectors at once. Its very difficult to try and successfully hit every application area, says Dadhania, noting that concentrating on defined niches allows companies to use their limited resources more efficiently and build credibility in demanding fields such as healthcare or aerospace.This focus on specialized problems may yield a longer-term advantage. Firms that address underserved segments, whether radio-frequency antennas or other niche applications. can more easily become leaders in their chosen territory. If you have identified a space that is very underserved by 3D printing, Dadhania says, you can be the person for that area. The idea aligns neatly with the cautionary proverb that you cannot chase two antelope at once. By zeroing in on a single vertical, startups can secure a beachhead, proving their technologys value and justifying future expansion beyond their initial targets.Long-standing concerns about materials performance and process consistency continue to unsettle the additive manufacturing sector. You have to build trust that if you are printing an alloy the customer already knows, it will perform as expected batch after batch, says Dadhania. She notes that no single company can overcome this reliability gap alone, as it involves improvements to materials, machines, monitoring systems, and verification standards.Artificial intelligence may help. Dadhania sees particular potential in AI-driven quality assurance that allows printers to self-correct in real time. If AI can reduce the tinkering, so you just press print and get the part you want, that would be the biggest value, she says, contrasting it with todays trial-and-error approach. While AIs role in generative design has attracted attention, its capacity to detect errors early and streamline production parameters may prove more transformative.Beyond materials and machine intelligence, post-processing remains a stubborn bottleneck. Although firms like DyeMansion and Solukon have introduced automated solutions, many users still grapple with time-consuming, messy workflows. Dadhania identifies this area as ripe for further innovation: new technologies and automated systems that simplify finishing could help transform the overall productivity and reliability of additive manufacturing.Solukons SFM-AT1500-S depowdering system. Photo via Solukon.Consolidation and the year aheadIndustry observers have long foreseen a wave of consolidation in additive manufacturing, but predictions of swift shakeouts have yet to materialize. Weve been anticipating it for a while, says Dadhania, but has it gone completely as planned? Maybe not. While acquisitions such as Nano Dimensions headline-grabbing pursuit of Markforged and Desktop Metal have commanded attention, these moves have not significantly reshaped the market structure. Uncertainty as to whether the transactions will be completed persists. The aggregate revenues of even prominent merged entities represent only a small fraction of the estimated multi-billion-dollar additive sector.The underlying challenge is that newcomers continue to emerge. With a proliferation of start-ups and well over 800 exhibitors at major trade shows, end-users and investors face a baffling array of offerings. The industry needs to consolidate for full maturity, Ms. Dadhania notes, suggesting that the industry having fewer players could make it easier for customers to identify the right solutions for their application. For now, however, the drive to merge and simplify is lagging behind the rate at which new entrants arrive, leaving many players vying for attention in an increasingly crowded field.Investment levels in additive manufacturing look unlikely to rebound dramatically in 2025, with venture funding expected to remain stable rather than surge. I dont see significant changes in macroeconomic factors or attitudes that tell me more investment is coming, says Dadhania. She anticipates funding levels similar to those of 2024, with any growth likely concentrated on application-focused businesses rather than hardware or materials start-ups.Read more in this series:The State of Investment in the 3D Printing IndustryNATO Innovation Fund and defense tech investingAM Ventures: how to get your 3D printing start-up fundedNinepointfive founding partner on the new investment realityDont miss the upcoming articles in our State of Investing in 3D Printing series; subscribe to the 3D Printing Industry newsletter.To stay up to date with the latest 3D printing news, follow 3D Printing Industry on LinkedIn.You can also find us on Twitter, and Facebook.Featured image showsLondons financial district. Photo by Michael Petch.Michael PetchMichael Petch is the editor-in-chief at 3DPI and the author of several books on 3D printing. He is a regular keynote speaker at technology conferences where he has delivered presentations such as 3D printing with graphene and ceramics and the use of technology to enhance food security. Michael is most interested in the science behind emerging technology and the accompanying economic and social implications.

Frederick Tang Architectures latest project is a testament to form and multifunctionality, creating a serene space that lovingly expresses the personality and heritage of the apartments inhabitants. Throughout the Quarry Loft apartment in New York, Tang thoughtfully integrated delicate white oak millwork with decorative wallpaper panels and bold stonework. The familys grandfather was an abstract artist, so we were picking a lot of gestural textures on purpose, said Frederick Tang, principal of the eponymous studio. Youll see that in the stone, [and] the fabric panels are very painterlyalmost like watercolors. Tang opted for Kotoubia Fabric in Cyrrus from Eskayel. The main room features a vaulted ceiling, a series of sliding screens and fabric panels, and recessed doorsa space made to be flexible. Its a foyer, a guest room, a library, and an office, Tang toldAN Interior.Behind cabinetry, a hidden murphy bed can be revealed to create a fifth bedroomperfect for hosting guests during the familys large reunions. A desk rests behind blue panels that flank a religious altarpiece.Read more about the apartment on aninteriormag.com.

All images courtesy of Europa, shared with permissionBrandon Morris Spectral Fiberglass Gowns Conjure Fears of the UnknownJanuary 29, 2025ArtGrace EbertWander into New Yorks Europa, and youll encounter a spectral cast devoid of characters. Pale green gowns with ruffled hems, long sleeves, and empire waists haunt the gallery as they hunch and lean as if enlivened by an invisible force. Unsettling and intriguing, the translucent works wouldnt be out of place in a ghostly horror film and are on view for Brandon Morriss solo show, Actress.Born in San Diego and based in New York, Morris is trained in dressmaking, which he applies to fiberglass for this body of work. Using an industrial sewing machine and mannequins, Morris sewed garments based on vintage childrens gowns from the Victorian era. Resin stiffens the clothing and allows each piece to retain its distinctive, upright shape.Ghost Dress 6 (2024), fiberglass, 32 x 27 x 51 inchesA statement about the exhibition shares that the hollow forms offer space to hold our fears and anxieties. Redolent of the supernatural mystery The Ring from 2002itself adapted from the 1998 Japanese film Ringuthe uncanny dresses are unnerving because their gestures and poses are so similar to reality. As they float in the gallery, the garments curved backs and crooked shoulders are out of kilter and offer an air of discomfort.As with the conventions of the horror genre, Morris works are unnerving in part because they leave us with questions: Who wore the garments, and where have they gone? Who, or what, left the dresses in this state? And, perhaps most timely, what insidious forces are hidden in plain sight?Actress continues through February 9. Find more from Morris on Instagram.Ghost Dress 7 (2024), fiberglass, 37 x 37 x 55 inchesGhost Dress 2 (2024), fiberglass, 20 x 20 x 45 inchesNext article

Published January 29, 2025 10:00am EST close Tech experts sounding alarm on cyberattack targeting iPhone users Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson on the alleged text scam to gain access to users' Apple ID information and the popular new Noplace app being used by Gen Z. UnitedHealths Change Healthcare unit suffered a data breach in February 2024, the news of which surfaced Feb. 21.Initially reported to have affected around 100 million individuals, the U.S. health insurance giant has now revealed that the actual number is significantly higher: 190 million. This makes it the largest breach of medical data in U.S. history, affecting nearly half the countrys population.A breach of this magnitude can have devastating consequences for the American people as malicious actors could exploit the data for a range of attacks if it finds its way to the dark web. A doctor looking at patients private information (Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson)The updated impact assessmentUnitedHealth confirmed on Friday, Jan. 24, 2025, that the ransomware attack on its Change Healthcare unit affected approximately 190 million people in the United States. The company had previously estimated the number of affected individuals to be around 100 million in its preliminary analysis filed with the Office for Civil Rights, a division of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services that investigates data breaches.WHAT IS ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (AI)?UnitedHealth stated that the majority of those impacted have already been notified, either directly or through substitute notice. The final tally of affected individuals will be confirmed and submitted to the Office for Civil Rights at a later date.The company tells CyberGuy it is"not aware of any misuse of individuals information as a result of this incident and has not seen electronic medical record databases appear in the data during the analysis." However, UnitedHealth did not disclose when it became aware of the additional 90 million victims, how the revised figure was determined or what changes led to the updated number. Illustration of a hacker at work (Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson)What you need to know about the data breachThe cyberattack on Change Healthcare in February caused widespread disruptions across the U.S. healthcare sector, as the company took its systems offline to contain the breach. This shutdown impacted critical services such as claims processing, payments and data sharing, which many healthcare providers rely on.The stolen data varied by individual but included a broad range of personal and sensitive information, such as names, addresses, dates of birth, phone numbers, email addresses and government ID numbers, including Social Security, drivers license and passport details.Plus, hackers may have accessed health-related information, including diagnoses, medications, test results, imaging records, care and treatment plans, and health insurance details. Financial and banking information tied to claims and payment data was also reportedly compromised.The breach was the result of a ransomware attack carried out by ALPHV/BlackCat, a Russian-speaking ransomware and extortion group. The attack, a form of malware intrusion, locks victims out of their data unless a ransom is paid. ALPHV/BlackCat later took credit for the attack.During a House hearing in April, Change Healthcare admitted that the breach was made possible due to inadequate security measures, specifically the absence of two-factor authentication to protect its systems.GET FOX BUSINESS ON THE GO BY CLICKING HERE Illustration of a hacker at work (Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson)6 ways to protect yourself from Change Healthcare data breach1. Remove your personal information from the internet: The breach has exposed sensitive personal data, making it essential to reduce your online footprint. While no service can guarantee complete data removal, a reputable data removal service can significantly limit your exposure. These services systematically monitor and erase your personal information from numerous websites and data brokers.Check out my top picks for data removal services here.2. Be wary of mailbox communications:With addresses among the compromised data, scammers may exploit this breach to send fraudulent letters. Be aware of mail claimingmissed deliveries, account suspensions or security alerts. Always verify the authenticity of such communications before responding or taking action.3. Be cautious of phishing attempts and use strong antivirus software: Scammers may use your compromised email or phone number to target you withphishing attacks. Be wary of messages asking for personal information or containing suspicious links. To protect yourself, ensure strong antivirus software is installed on all your devices.Get my picks for the best 2025 antivirus protection winners for your Windows, Mac, Android and iOS devices.4. Monitor your accounts: Given the scope of this breach, regular monitoring of your bank accounts, credit card statements and other financial accounts is critical. Look for unauthorized transactions or suspicious activity and immediately report any issues to your bank or credit card provider.5. Recognize and report a Social Security scam:If your Social Security number is exposed, you could become a target for related scams. Official communication regarding Social Security issues usually comes via mail, not phone calls or emails. Learn more about spotting and reporting scams by visiting the Social Security Administrationsscam information page.6. Invest in identity theft protection:Data breaches happen every day, and most never make the headlines, but with an identity theft protection service, youll be notified if and when you are affected. Identity theft companies can monitor personal information like your Social Security number, phone number and email address and alert you if it is being sold on the dark web or being used to open an account.They can also assist you in freezing your bank and credit card accounts to prevent further unauthorized use by criminals.See my tips and best picks on how to protect yourself from identity theft.Kurt's key takeawayIts surprising that a company of UnitedHealths scale failed to implement even basic cybersecurity measures when handling customer data. A breach affecting 190 million people nearly half of the U.S. population is staggering, leaving almost anyone at risk of becoming a target for hackers. While the company is still assessing the full extent of the breach, you can take precautions now by being cautious with any unknown links or unsolicited calls. Bad actors may use a variety of tactics to cause harm.CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APPDo you think these companies are doing enough to protect your data, and is the government doing enough to catch those behind cyberattacks?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.Follow Kurt on his social channels:Answers to the most asked CyberGuy questions:New from Kurt:Copyright 2025 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.

The Google Threat Intelligence Group (GTIG) has published new information revealing how threat actors, among them nation state-backed advanced persistent threat (APT) operations working on behalf of the governments of China, Iran, North Korea and Russia, attempted to abuse its Gemini artificial intelligence (AI) tool.Google said that government actors from at least 20 countries had used Gemini, with the highest volume of use originating from China and Iran-based groups.These actors attempted to use Gemini to support multiple phases of their attack chains, from procuring infrastructure and so-called bulletproof hosting services, reconnoitering targets, researching vulnerabilities, development payloads, and assisting with malicious scripting and post-compromise evasion techniques.The Iranians, who appear to be the heaviest users of Gemini, tend to use it for research on defence organisations, vulnerabilities and creating content for phishing campaigns, often cyber security themes. Their targets are perennially linked to Irans Middle Eastern neighbours and US and Israeli interests in the region.Chinese APTs, on the other hand, favour the tool for recon, scripting and development, code troubleshooting, and researching topics such as lateral movement, privilege escalation, and data exfiltration and intellectual property (IP) theft.Chinas targets are generally the US military, government IT providers and the intelligence community.North Korean and Russian groups are more limited in their use of Gemini, with the North Koreans tending to stick to topics of interest to the regime, including the theft of cryptocurrency assets, and in support of an ongoing campaign in which Pyongyang has been placing clandestine fake IT contractors at target organisations.Russian use of the tool is currently limited, and mainly focuses on coding tasks, including adding encryption functions possibly evidence of the abiding links between the Russian state and financially motivated ransomware gangs.Our findings, which are consistent with those of our industry peers, reveal that while AI can be a useful tool for threat actors, it is not yet the game-changer it is sometimes portrayed to be, said the Google team.While we do see threat actors using generative AI to perform common tasks like troubleshooting, research and content generation, we do not see indications of them developing novel capabilities.For skilled actors, generative AI tools provide a helpful framework, similar to the use of Metasploit or Cobalt Strike in cyber threat activity. For less skilled actors, they also provide a learning and productivity tool, enabling them to more quickly develop tools and incorporate existing techniques.However,current LLMs on their own are unlikely to enable breakthrough capabilities for threat actors.We note that the AI landscape is in constant flux, with new AI models and agentic systems emerging daily. As this evolution unfolds, GTIG anticipates the threat landscape to evolve in stride as threat actors adopt new AI technologies in their operations.Read more about AI and securityInternational collaboration agreement will see the governments of Canada, the UK and the US work together to research, evaluate and test new defence technologies.CIISecs annual report on the security profession finds evidence of growing concern that artificial intelligence will ultimately prove more useful to threat actors than defenders.The EU AI Act builds on existing cyber security, privacy and data governance regulations such as GDPR.GTIG said it had, however, observed a handful of cases in which threat actors conducted low-effort experimentation using publicly known jailbreak prompts to try to hop Geminis on-board guardrails for example, asking for basic instructions on how to create malwares.In one instance, an APT actor was observed copying publicly available prompts into Gemini and appending them with basic instructions on how to encode text from a file, and write it to an executable. In this instance, Gemini provided Python code to convert Base64 to hex, but its safety fallback responses kicked in when the user then requested the same code as a VBScript, which it denied.The same group was also observed attempting to request Python code for use in the creation of a distributed denial of service (DDoS) tool, a request Gemini declined to assist with. The threat actor then abandoned the session.Some malicious actors unsuccessfully attempted to prompt Gemini for guidance on abusing Google products, such as advanced phishing techniques for Gmail, assistance coding a Chrome infostealer, and methods to bypass Googles account creation verification methods, said the GTIG team.These attempts were unsuccessful. Gemini did not produce malware or other content that could plausibly be used in a successful malicious campaign. Instead, the responses consisted of safety-guided content and generally helpful, neutral advice about coding and cyber security.In our continuous work to protect Google and our users, we have not seen threat actors either expand their capabilities or better succeed in their efforts to bypass Googles defences, they added.The full research dossier can be downloaded from Google.

Research published to coincide with Data Privacy Day unequivocally sends a message to programmers and policymakers alike. With 93% of UK consumers apprehensive about how their data is used and the advent of AI causing many to now also be concerned about the use of their data to train AI models, the message is clear: trust has to be gained before it can be retained.Almost 7 years on from the implementation of comprehensive data privacy laws in the UK (in the form of the General Data Protection Regulation) and 3 years on from the UK government hinting that it might think outside the box in terms of data privacy regulation, the research uncovered a significant proportion (56%) of consumers who want to see stricter regulation of personal data.This could be interesting food for thought for policymakers and slightly at odds with both the latest data protection reform bill currently going through Parliament (the Data Use and Access Bill) and the Government's recently published AI Action Plan, which seeks to adopt a pro-innovation light touch approach to AI regulation, in contrast to other more heavily regulated regimes such as seen in the EU.What is clear from the research is that there is work to do at all levels of the data ecosystem to build trust and alleviate fears. The Government's focus in its Action Plan is firmly on unlocking data sets as a key to AI innovation, so it stands to reason that success is predicated on consumers being confident that their data will be protected when it is shared with third parties in both the public and private sectors. The research showed that consumers still dont understand what is happening to their data, particularly in the context of AI, and it is likely that this is driving consumer fears about data sharing. Although transparency principles lie at the heart of data protection laws in the UK, an overwhelming majority (93%) of respondents still want more to be done to better inform people about how their data is being used.For business, these trust issues can be viewed as both a threat and an opportunity. With 78% of consumers saying that they are likely to stop using a service or company if they discover it has experienced a data breach, it likely follows that data privacy standards and compliance present an opportunity for businesses to differentiate, with those that are trusted being more likely to succeed in the race to harness the power of data in the evolving AI world.As for consumers, they must also share the burden of responsibility for data protection. Whilst the majority (67%) of respondents confirmed that they have heeded years of advice to use strong passwords to protect their data, more sophisticated techniques such as VPNs and other privacy enhancing technologies are much less likely to be employed.So, whilst policy makers and regulators can mold the metaphorical bricks that house our data and software developers install the windows, that is still not enough to deliver robust security. Or, put another way, in the same way people are unlikely to leave their home without first locking the front door, the onus must be on consumers to take some responsibility for the protection of their data.Miriam Everett, partner and global head of data and privacy at Herbert Smith Freehills

Some of the issues affect both Windows 10 and 11, as Microsoft continues to struggle with updates that do more harm than good.

Portable Document Format files, also known as PDFs, are universally used during electronic document exchanges. This file format is often selected when users need to share, store, or print documents that typically aren't tampered with or edited. However, in some situations, it is important to be able to edit or save a PDF document. A business or service may need you to read and digitally sign a PDF contract, for example, or you may need to invoice in a PDF format.Finding the right solution for editing PDFs can be tough, especially when many free services are restricted or come with a watermark. There are paid options, but determining which option suits you best can be difficult.What is the best PDF editor right now?Our top pick for the best PDF editor is Adobe Acrobat Pro. This PDF editor has a host of editing and collaborative functions that will make dealing with the PDF format almost as easy as using a text editor, and while expensive at $19.99/month, it is an excellent and trusted tool for businesses, too. Sort by All The best PDF editors in 2025 Show less View now at Adobe If you're looking for a one-size-fits-all PDF editor, Adobe Acrobat Pro is our favorite pick. Adobe Acrobat Pro has been available for years, and the company has kept it current with frequent improvements in its editing, sharing, and productivity features. Editing your PDFs is a breeze, and with its variety of image and content tools, you can also use it for more than bog standard documents -- you have the option to be creative.Business users, too, will appreciate Adobe's multi-device support, scan-to-PDF functions, and e-signature options. While an AI assistant is in development, it is limited, and competitor offerings are ahead.There are three subscriptions on offer: a yearly subscription, billed monthly at $19.99/month; a monthly plan priced at $29.99/month; or an annual plan for $239.88 upfront. Alternatively, you can opt for Adobe Acrobat Standard ($12.99/month), but you will miss out on advanced features.A free seven-day trial is available, but you will have to hand over your payment card information. Don't forget to cancel within this time frame if you are unhappy with the software. Alternatively, you can try out Adobe's demo.Adobe Acrobat Profeatures:Editing| Multi-platform, web| Mobile support | OCR | Scanning capabilities| Easy PDF customization| Trial and demo Pros PDF workhorse Pro features Trial Cons Expensive Software can be sluggish If you're looking for a one-size-fits-all PDF editor, Adobe Acrobat Pro is our favorite pick. Adobe Acrobat Pro has been available for years, and the company has kept it current with frequent improvements in its editing, sharing, and productivity features. Editing your PDFs is a breeze, and with its variety of image and content tools, you can also use it for more than bog standard documents -- you have the option to be creative.Business users, too, will appreciate Adobe's multi-device support, scan-to-PDF functions, and e-signature options. While an AI assistant is in development, it is limited, and competitor offerings are ahead.There are three subscriptions on offer: a yearly subscription, billed monthly at $19.99/month; a monthly plan priced at $29.99/month; or an annual plan for $239.88 upfront. Alternatively, you can opt for Adobe Acrobat Standard ($12.99/month), but you will miss out on advanced features.A free seven-day trial is available, but you will have to hand over your payment card information. Don't forget to cancel within this time frame if you are unhappy with the software. Alternatively, you can try out Adobe's demo.Adobe Acrobat Profeatures:Editing| Multi-platform, web| Mobile support | OCR | Scanning capabilities| Easy PDF customization| Trial and demo Read More Show Expert Take Show less Show less View now at Foxit The Foxit PDF Editor+ is an excellent alternative to Adobe Acrobat Pro. Once you've signed up, you can download the apps you like, including the PDF editor on Windows, macOS, or via the cloud. A mobile option is also available. However, the app file sizes are quite large, so it won't be instantaneous.The apps are extremely easy to use, and during testing, we found that its text and image recognition were on par with AAdobe's Text movement and resizing work well, and the solution comes with a variety of helpful editing functions. Foxit's OCR (Optical Character Recognition) is of a great standard, which helps when you need to convert documents to PDFs.What we really like, however, is the online e-signing facility. The user dashboard is clean and shows documents waiting for signatures, PDFs waiting for signatures from another party, draft PDFs, and completed documents. You can upload files from your computer or third-party services, including Dropbox and Google Drive, request notary support, or set up payment options.Plans begin at $10.99/month for the basic PDF Editor. If you need document management, you will need to sign up for Foxit PDF Editor+ at $13.99/month, or $169.99 per year. You can also purchase the e-sign service separately. A free 14-day trial is available, and no credit card is required.Foxit PDF Editor+ features:E-signing| Multi-platform| Mobile support| AI assistance| Password PDF security| Free trial Pros Excellent e-signing service Online notaries Supports SSO Easy to use Cons Large app download size The Foxit PDF Editor+ is an excellent alternative to Adobe Acrobat Pro. Once you've signed up, you can download the apps you like, including the PDF editor on Windows, macOS, or via the cloud. A mobile option is also available. However, the app file sizes are quite large, so it won't be instantaneous.The apps are extremely easy to use, and during testing, we found that its text and image recognition were on par with AAdobe's Text movement and resizing work well, and the solution comes with a variety of helpful editing functions. Foxit's OCR (Optical Character Recognition) is of a great standard, which helps when you need to convert documents to PDFs.What we really like, however, is the online e-signing facility. The user dashboard is clean and shows documents waiting for signatures, PDFs waiting for signatures from another party, draft PDFs, and completed documents. You can upload files from your computer or third-party services, including Dropbox and Google Drive, request notary support, or set up payment options.Plans begin at $10.99/month for the basic PDF Editor. If you need document management, you will need to sign up for Foxit PDF Editor+ at $13.99/month, or $169.99 per year. You can also purchase the e-sign service separately. A free 14-day trial is available, and no credit card is required.Foxit PDF Editor+ features:E-signing| Multi-platform| Mobile support| AI assistance| Password PDF security| Free trial Read More Show Expert Take Show less Show less View now at Nitro Through the Nitro Pro workspace, you can quickly download apps for Windows, macOS, and iOS, as well as open up tools including requests to sign, self-signing, converting Word to PDF, and PowerPoint to PDF -- or vice versa.The software's user interface is easy to understand and contains all the functions you could need, including text editing, highlighting, annotation, freestyle drawing, and conversion. However, it might be overkill for casual users. There are a few annoyances, such as trying to format and align large amounts of text, and sometimes the text correction function doesn't work very well.The most interesting feature to note is Document Assist. Currently in Beta, this tool utilizes an AI assistant to create summaries, answer queries, or translate PDFs up to 250MB in size. So far, it seems quite good as a summary tool. There is also a useful set of guides to help you edit or produce PDFs.You can choose between a variety of plans, including an individual license for $14.99/month, starter pack bundles, small team subscriptions, and Nitro Pro Business, which includes volume license discounts. A free trial is available; you don't have to hand over any financial information to try it out for 14 days. Demo modes will watermark your documents.Although a lack of readily available support has been noted, many customers have few online customer-related support channels.Nitro Profeatures: Editing functions | Document conversion| Demo available| Document Assist AI | E-sign facilities| Free trial| SSO Pros Pro Clean workspace Free trial A variety of plans are available Cons Lack of support channels Can be expensive Through the Nitro Pro workspace, you can quickly download apps for Windows, macOS, and iOS, as well as open up tools including requests to sign, self-signing, converting Word to PDF, and PowerPoint to PDF -- or vice versa.The software's user interface is easy to understand and contains all the functions you could need, including text editing, highlighting, annotation, freestyle drawing, and conversion. However, it might be overkill for casual users. There are a few annoyances, such as trying to format and align large amounts of text, and sometimes the text correction function doesn't work very well.The most interesting feature to note is Document Assist. Currently in Beta, this tool utilizes an AI assistant to create summaries, answer queries, or translate PDFs up to 250MB in size. So far, it seems quite good as a summary tool. There is also a useful set of guides to help you edit or produce PDFs.You can choose between a variety of plans, including an individual license for $14.99/month, starter pack bundles, small team subscriptions, and Nitro Pro Business, which includes volume license discounts. A free trial is available; you don't have to hand over any financial information to try it out for 14 days. Demo modes will watermark your documents.Although a lack of readily available support has been noted, many customers have few online customer-related support channels.Nitro Profeatures: Editing functions | Document conversion| Demo available| Document Assist AI | E-sign facilities| Free trial| SSO Read More Show Expert Take Show less Show less View now at PDF Expert If you need a mobile-ready PDF with a great interface for Apple's ecosystem, Readdle's PDF Expert might be your best bet. PDF Expert has gained a high rating in the App Store as a productivity tool, and we can see why. During testing, we found that the user interface has been designed with user-friendliness in mind. Any tool you might need is within easy reach, including editing PDFs, merging documents, compressing PDFs, image manipulation, or starting a PDF from scratch.Like many other PDF editors, this option also experiments with AI. PDF Expert Copilot, available for free while in Beta, summarizes and makes suggestions for improving PDF documents.There are two pricing options: $6.67/month or a one-off payment of $199.99 for a lifetime subscription. However, the lifetime option is limited to a macOS app. A seven-day trial is also available.PDF Expertfeatures:Editing and annotation| OCR text recognition| Signing| PDF conversion| AI| Trial available Pros User-friendly AI assistance Trial available Lifetime license available Cons Not available on Android If you need a mobile-ready PDF with a great interface for Apple's ecosystem, Readdle's PDF Expert might be your best bet. PDF Expert has gained a high rating in the App Store as a productivity tool, and we can see why. During testing, we found that the user interface has been designed with user-friendliness in mind. Any tool you might need is within easy reach, including editing PDFs, merging documents, compressing PDFs, image manipulation, or starting a PDF from scratch.Like many other PDF editors, this option also experiments with AI. PDF Expert Copilot, available for free while in Beta, summarizes and makes suggestions for improving PDF documents.There are two pricing options: $6.67/month or a one-off payment of $199.99 for a lifetime subscription. However, the lifetime option is limited to a macOS app. A seven-day trial is also available.PDF Expertfeatures:Editing and annotation| OCR text recognition| Signing| PDF conversion| AI| Trial available Read More Show Expert Take Show less What is the best PDF editor? PDF editorPriceFree trial?Editing?AI?E-signing?Adobe Acrobat Pro$19.99+/monthYes (payment card required)YesLimitedYesFoxit PDF Editor+$10.99+/monthYesYesYesYesNitro Pro$14.99+/monthYesYesYesYesPDF Expert$6.67/month+YesYesYesLimited Show more Which is the right PDF editor for you? Choose this PDF editorIf you wantAdobe Acrobat ProA one-size-fits-all PDF editor. While the monthly subscription can be expensive, if you need a powerful PDF workhorse for your daily tasks, it can be worth the investment.Foxit PDF Editor+The best Adobe alternative. Foxit offers bang for your buck as a PDF editor and its eSign functionality is top-notch.Nitro ProA PDF editor for AI assistance. Nitro Pro is a decent option for daily PDF editing and its Document Assistant is a useful summarizer of PDF documents.PDF ExpertA PDF editor for the Apple ecosystem. This option is reasonably priced and includes useful editing tools and AI help. Show more Factors to consider when choosing a PDF editor When you are on the hunt for a PDF editor, consider the below factors in your decision:Functions: Do you just need a barebones editor for occasionally signing documents and filling out forms? In that case, it might not be worth signing up for a premium software plan. If, however, you want autofills, image scanning, and batch editing, you will need a higher tier of software.Frequency of use: Consider the limitations you are willing to put up with. If you don't mind daily PDF document editing limits, for example, you can probably get away with entry-level software. However, if you envision you will need to use a PDF editor on a daily basis, advanced software with useful functionality, including scanning and editing assistance, might be a better choice.Business purposes: Some free PDF editors will be unrestricted but include a watermark. You'll need a PDF editor without any of these forms of advertising or limits if you plan to use a PDF editor for business purposes.Cost: Consider how much you are potentially willing to pay for a PDF editor subscription. If the benefits of third-party PDF editors outside of Google Drive and similar online services, for example, are worth it to you, add this to your monthly budget.Compatibility: There's no point in investing in PDF software unless it works on your preferred platforms and operating systems. Ensure you have checked compatibility requirements before signing up. Show more How did we choose these PDF editors? In compiling this list of the best PDF editors, we examined third-party reviews and extensively researched customer feedback on each option. We also have hands-on experience with a variety of PDF solutions available on the market, which helps us fully understand the most useful features for consumers and businesses alike.When selecting the best PDF editors, these are some of the most important factors that determine the best options:Paid or free: Not everyone wants to pay for a PDF editor subscription, which is understandable. While the trade-off might be that premium features are locked, we chose to include a selection of both free and paid options.Platforms: We included PDF editors that support a range of platforms, including Windows, macOS, and mobile devices.File format support: Not every PDF editor is equal in relation to how many file formats they support. We have endeavored to include as much variety in file format support as possible.Tools: We like to see PDF editors offering a range of tools and features that are useful, including scanning tools, signing, line-by-line editing, and more.Individual, business use: We have included PDF editors that are suitable for individual and business use. Whether you want a solution for casual, ad-hoc signing or you need software that can be used daily, you'll find some great options. Show more PDF editor FAQs Do you have to pay for a PDF editor? No, you don't have to pay for a PDF editor. There are countless PDF editors available for free, including online-only services, PC software, mobile apps, and PDF editors in productivity suites. For basic and limited use, free PDF editors tend to be enough for individuals, but businesses may need to invest in a paid option if they need to use a PDF editor on a daily basis. Show more Does Google have a free PDF editor? Yes. Google has a free PDF editor, which you can access through Google Drive and Google Docs. You will need to upload a PDF to Google Drive and then open it in Docs before editing can begin.This option is best suited for basic, casual use, as it is a barebones editor. Alternatively, there are third-party PDF editors that can connect to Google Drive, giving you more editing options and control over your PDF documents. Show more What's the difference between a free and a paid PDF editor? Free PDF software and editors only offer barebones editing functions, or they typically lock advanced features behind paywalls. Some free PDF editors will also limit how many documents you can edit, or they may include a watermark -- in other words, the free option is for you to test it out before you buy it. Paid options offer more advanced features, including deeper editing options, sharing and collaborative tools, and converting other file formats and images into PDFs. Show more Can I edit any PDF file with a PDF editor? It's not always possible to edit PDFs with an editor. The reason PDFs are often used as the preferred format for important documents -- such as legal paperwork, for example -- is that they can be locked with a password and secured via encryption. The original creator of the PDF may have also revoked editing permissions. However, in general, most PDFs can be edited with the right software as long as there are no security locks to stop a PDF file from being tampered with. Show more Other PDF editors worth considering Further ZDNET Tech Coverage Smartphones Smartwatches Tablets Laptops TVs Other Tech Resources ZDNET Recommends

The demand for AI expertise has surged across industries; to compete for top AI talent, organizations must understand the features that attract them.