• The Nobody Wants This Podcast House Hits the Market for $3.8 Million
    www.architecturaldigest.com
    Despite the name of the show that gave this LA pad its claim to fame, itd be more apt to say everybody wants this: the home from Nobody Wants This, Netflixs hit rom-com starring Kristen Bell and Adam Brody, has landed on the market for just under $3.8 million. Designed by David Lucido, the four-bedroom and four-bathroom dwelling where Bells character, Joanne, records her dating podcast, is a serenely updated spot with tons of character.Cream-colored walls and rosy terra-cotta floors unite the majority of the houses 3,776 square feet. The warm neutrals are interspersed with occasional swaths of sophisticated colorsome aubergine-hued cabinets here, a staircase lined with hand-painted mustard tiles theremaking for a calm canvas with plenty of personality for its next inhabitant to build on. The main double-height living area features a wall with built-in bookshelves, while a smaller sitting room nearby is warmed by a fireplace and a contrast ceiling sporting a latte-like shade of brown.There are no upper cabinets weighing down the spacious kitchen, which upholds the abodes tranquil philosophy by editing down any extra visual clutter. An island with open shelving on the side provides some additional storage to display dishware. In the corner, a wavy built-in banquette is situated next to a walk-in pantry; on the opposite end, a built-in bar segues into a cozy alcove where one could imagine sipping an aperitivo (or hanging out with Adam Brody). In the backyard, an angular swimming pool is bordered by a skylit guesthouse, where said guests could theoretically stay if they have one aperitivo too many.Join NowBecome an AD PRO member for only $25 $20 per month + receive an exclusive toteArrowThe listing is held by Marc Noah of Sothebys International Realty Beverly Hills Brokerage.
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  • One controller working two towers during US air disaster as Trump blamed diversity hires
    www.9news.com.au
    One controller working two towers during US air disaster as Trump blamed diversity hiresBy Jorge Branco9News StaffCNN8:56am Jan 31, 2025The bodies of three US soldiers have been recovered after a military Black Hawk helicopter crashed into a passenger plane, which is believed to have killed all involved.Two Russian Olympic figure skaters and several American ice skaters, coaches and family members were among the 64 passengers and crew on board American Airlines flight 5342.There were three military personnel on board the helicopter when the aircraft crashed into the Potomac River just before 8.50pm on Wednesday night (1.50pm Thursday AEDT).Search and rescue efforts are seen around a wreckage site in the Potomac River from Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport. (AP Photo/Mark Schiefelbein)Officials said the remains of the soldiers would be at Air Force Mortuary Affairs Operations at Dover Air Force Base in Delaware.That office coordinates the dignified transfer of fallen service members.The officials spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss details not yet announced.Air traffic control details revealedThere was one air traffic controller working two different tower positions at the time of the collision, an air traffic control source told CNN.The source described the set-up, which had one person handling both local and helicopter traffic, as not uncommon.The New York Times, which first reported the detail, said an internal, preliminary Federal Aviation Administration internal report says staffing was "not normal for the time of day and volume of traffic".The Reagan National control tower is 85 per cent staffed, the source said, with 24 of 28 positions filled.The National Transportation Safety Board is just beginning its investigation and will look at a wide range of potential causes of the collision.It is too early to tell whether the tower staffing at the time played a role in the incident.Recovery efforts are under way. (AP)The crew that was flying the helicopter when it collided with an American Airlines jet was "very experienced" and were not new to the unit or the congested flying that occurs daily around Washington, DC.That is according to Jonathan Koziol, chief of staff for Army aviation."Both pilots had flown this specific route before, at night. This wasn't something new to either one of them," Koziol said."Even the crew chief in the back has been in the unit for a very long time, very familiar with the area, very familiar with the routing structure."The crew, including an instructor pilot and pilot in command, were experienced to the point where either crew member "could manage that helicopter by themselves".The instructor pilot, who was serving as pilot-in-command, had about 1000 flight hours, Koziol said.The instructor pilot was evaluating the second pilot - who was also qualified as a pilot in command - for that night training flight and the pilot who was being evaluated had about 500 flight hours, Koziol said.Just after sunrise on Thursday morning (late Thursday AEDT), Washington fire chief John Donnelly said the rescue efforts had shifted to a recovery operation."At this point, we don't believe there are any survivors from this accident, and we have recovered 27 people from the plane and one from the helicopter," he said.American Airlines CEO Robert Isom said at this stage it wasn't known why the two aircraft collided."I want to express my sincere condolences for the accident that happened at DCA last night," he said."We're absolutely heartbroken for the family and loved ones of the passengers and crew members, and also for those that were on the military aircraft."Search and rescue efforts in the Potomac River. (AP Photo/Mark Schiefelbein)Trump says FAA diversity hiring has hurt air safetyUS President Donald Trump spoke in the White House press briefing room on Thursday (Friday morning AEDT), located about five kilometres away from the fatal crash site."As one nation, we grieve for every precious soul that has been taken from us so suddenly," Trump said."Sadly, there are no survivors" of the crash, he said.Trump said it was still not clear what led to the crash.He said the US military and the National Transportation Safety Board are investigating."We'll find out how this disaster occurred and will ensure that nothing like this ever happens again," he said.US President Donald Trump blamed Democrats, air traffic controllers and diversity efforts for the crash. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)Without evidence, Trump blamed air traffic controllers, the helicopter pilots and Democratic policies at federal agencies.He also lashed out at the Federal Aviation Administration, saying the agency's diversity efforts had made air travel less safe.Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer of New York said Trump spewing conspiracy theories about the crash "turns your stomach"."It's one thing for internet pundits to spew off conspiracy theories, it's another for the president of the United States," Schumer said at the Capitol.Schumer's remarks appear aimed at statements by Trump made on Thursday.After opening a news conference with a moment of silence for the crash victims Trump used most of his time at the podium to cast political blame.The search for passengers and crew has become a recovery operation. (AP Photo/Carolyn Kaster)Former transportation secretary, Pete Buttigieg, also called Trump's criticisms "despicable" after the US president sharply criticised Buttigieg and even resorted to profanity to denounce what he called Democratic-led efforts to promote diversity at federal agencies."As families grieve, Trump should be leading, not lying," former Buttigieg posted on X shortly after Trump's White House news conference.He noted that when he led the agency, it "had zero commercial airline crash fatalities out of millions of flights on our watch".Trump said Buttigieg at the transportation department, had "run it right into the ground with his diversity".Russian and US figure skaters on boardKremlin Spokesman Dmitry Peskov confirmed to reporters that Russian figure skaters Evgenia Shishkova and Vadim Naumov were among the 64 people on board the United Airlines flight.They won the pairs title at the 1994 world championships and competed at the Winter Olympics twice."Unfortunately, we see that this sad information is being confirmed. There were other fellow citizens there. Bad news today from Washington," he said."We are sorry and send condolences to the families and friends who lost those of our fellow citizens who died in the plane crash."World champions Evgenia Shishkova and Vadim Naumov of Russia execute a throw during the pairs short competition at the World Figure Skating competition in Edmonton, Alberta, March 19, 1996. (AP Photo/Dave Buston, File)Evgenia Shishkova and Vadim Naumov of Russia perform during free skating in the pairs event of the NHK Trophy International Figure Skating Competition at Nagoya central Japan, December 9, 1995. (AP Photo/Shizuo Kambayashi, File)He did not give details on how many fatalities there were.Shishkova and Naumov are listed as professional pairs coaches on the website of the Skating Club of Boston.Their son, Maxim Naumov, is a competitive figure skater for the US.US Figure Skating said passengers included a group of figure skaters, their coaches and family members who were returning from a development camp held after the national US Figure Skating Championships in Wichita."We are devastated by this unspeakable tragedy and hold the victims' families closely in our hearts," the organisation said.People associated with The Skating Club of Boston console each other. (AP Photo/Robert F. Bukaty)"We will continue to monitor the situation and will release more information as it becomes available."Team USA pair skater Luke Wang said the news was "absolutely heartbreaking" and ice dancer Ethan Peal said he was "in shock".The international governing body for figure skating said the global skating community was "deeply shocked" and "heartbroken" to learn that figure skaters and those close to them were on the flight."Our thoughts are with everyone affected by this tragedy. Figure skating is more than a sport it's a close-knit family and we stand together," the International Skating Union said in a statement.District of Columbia Mayor Muriel Bowser, with Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy, left, and others, speaks during a news conference at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport. (AP)'Everything was standard'Transport Secretary Sean Duffy said the plane was found upside down split into three different sections in waist-deep water.Duffy said "everything was standard" on a clear night in the lead-up to the crash and the combination of passenger and military aircraft sharing similar airspace was "not unusual"."If you live in the DC area, you'll see helicopters up and down the river," he said."This flight pattern is seen oftentimes when you live in DC, this was a standard flight pattern last night as well.The wreckage of the plane can be seen in the Potomac River. (AP Photo/Mark Schiefelbein)A US Park Police helicopter flies over the Potomac River. (AP Photo/Carolyn Kaster)"The American Airlines flight coming into land was in a standard flight pattern as it was coming into DCA."Asked about Trump suggesting in an overnight social media post that the collision could have been prevented, Duffy said, "Do I think this was preventable? Absolutely."Duffy also said passengers should be "assured" that flying is safe."We have early indicators of what happened here and I will tell you with complete confidence we have the safest airspace in the world," he said.If no one survived, the collision would be the deadliest US air crash since November 2001, when an American Airlines flight crashed into a residential area of Belle Harbour, New York, just after takeoff from Kennedy Airport, killing all 260 people aboard.The crashThree US Army personnel were on board the Sikorsky H-60 Black Hawk helicopter when it collided with the PSA Airlines Bombardier CRJ700 regional jet arriving in the city from Wichita, Kansas, just before 9pm on Wednesday (2pm Thursday AEDT).The helicopter was on a training flight and not carrying any VIPs, according to a US defence official.Before dawn on Thursday (Thursday night AEDT), hundreds of rescuers continued to search the frigid waters of the Potomac.Images showed boats around a partly submerged wing and what appeared to be the mangled wreckage of the plane's fuselage.Boats work the scene on the Potomac River. (AP)Helicopters flew overhead with powerful search lights scanning the murky waters, while emergency vehicles lit up the banks of the Potomac in a long line of blinking red lights.The water temperature was just above freezing.Hypothermia begins when the body's core temperature falls to 35 degrees, a process that can start within moments in water this cold.Investigators from the Federal Aviation Administration were set to join the NTSB-led investigation into the crash.The Ronald Reagan National Airport was due to reopen at 11am (3am Friday AEDT).- With Associated Press and CNNCONTACT USSend your stories to contact@9news.com.au
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  • 'Everything I Say Leaks,' Zuckerberg Says in Leaked Meeting Audio
    www.404media.co
    SubscribeJoin the newsletter to get the latest updates.At an all hands meeting inside Meta Thursday, Mark Zuckerberg did not address Metas $25 million settlement with Donald Trump that will see the company paying $22 million for the eventual establishment of the Trump Presidential Library. But Zuckerberg did say that he had to be increasingly careful about what he says internally at Meta because everything I say leaks. And it sucks, right?Meta made changes to the question-and-answer section of the company all hands meeting because of the leaks, Zuckerberg said, according to meeting audio obtained by 404 Media.I want to be able to be able to talk about stuff openly, but I am also trying to like, well, were trying to build stuff and create value in the world, not destroy value by talking about stuff that inevitably leaks, he said. So rather than take direct questions, the company used a poll system, where questions asked beforehand were voted on so that main themes of questions were addressed.There are a bunch of things that I think are value-destroying for me to talk about, so Im not going to talk about those. But I think itll be good. You all can give us feedback later, he added. Maybe its just the nature of running a company at scale, but its a little bit of a bummer.Anything else we should know about this story? I would love to hear from you. Using a non-work device, you can message me securely on Signal at +1 202 505 1702. Otherwise, send me an email at jason@404media.co.In the hour-long meeting, Zuckerberg repeated many things he has said publicly, such as the possibility of replacing software engineers with AI, the fact that he thinks open source AI will soon overtake closed-source AI, and the fact that he believes the company can now work more easily with the Trump administration that he has changed his platforms to align with.This post is for paid members onlyBecome a paid member for unlimited ad-free access to articles, bonus podcast content, and more.SubscribeSign up for free access to this postFree members get access to posts like this one along with an email round-up of our week's stories.SubscribeAlready have an account? Sign in
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  • Intel has already received $2.2B in federal grants for chip production
    techcrunch.com
    Semiconductor giant Intel Corporation has already received $2.2 billion in federal grants from the U.S. Department of Commerce through the U.S. CHIPS and Science Act, the company shared during its Thursday earnings call.Dave Zinsner, Intels co-interim CEO, executive vice president and CFO, said the Silicon Valley-based company received the first tranche of $1.1 billion in federal grants at the end of 2024 and an additional $1.1 billion in January 2025. These grants are based on reaching certain milestones, Zinsner added. Another $5.66 billion has yet to be dispersed.The company was awarded a total of $7.86 billion in federal grants to build semiconductors in the U.S. in November as part of the U.S. Department of Commerces U.S. CHIPS and Science Act. While a sizable sum, this total was less than the original $8.5 billion estimate.When Intel was awarded its grant money in November, the company said it was planning to put the funds toward manufacturing and advanced packaging, or toward techniques to assemble and integrate multiple semiconductor chips into one package. This will be carried out at Intel facilities across Arizona, New Mexico, Ohio, and Oregon.The U.S. CHIPs and Science Act was signed into federal law by former President Joe Biden in 2022 in an effort to increase domestic semiconductor manufacturing. The act set aside $52 billion in subsidies for domestic chip manufacturers. While already two years old, the CHIPs Act faces some uncertainty under the Trump Administration. If President Donald Trumps federal funding freeze, which is currently being blocked by a federal judge, does go into effect, it would affect the Commerce Department employees focused on the CHIPS Act, according to Bloomberg reporting.Zinsner had a rosier outlook though. When asked by an analyst, he said that Intel has already been in communication with the Trump Administration and feels really good about the administrations outlook on bringing semiconductor manufacturing back to the United States.We look forward to continued engagement with the Trump Administration as we advance this work and support their efforts to strengthen U.S. technology and manufacturing leadership, Zinsner said, earlier on the call.
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  • Pentagon scrambles to block DeepSeek after employees connect to Chinese servers
    techcrunch.com
    In BriefPosted:3:49 PM PST January 30, 2025Image Credits:MustafaU / Getty ImagesPentagon scrambles to block DeepSeek after employees connect to Chinese serversDeepSeeks terms of service explicitly states it stores user data on Chinese servers and that it governs that data under Chinese law which mandates cooperation with the countrys intelligence agencies.But that didnt stop U.S. Department of Defense workers from getting caught up in the DeepSeek hype this week and connecting their work computers to Chinese servers, using the service for at least two days, Bloomberg reported.The Pentagon has since started blocking DeepSeek on some of its network, although some employees could still access the service, according to Bloomberg.The U.S. government is grappling with the national security implications of soaring interest in the Chinese AI chatbot, which has climbed to the top of both the U.S. Apple and Play stores.On January 24, the U.S. Navy banned employees from accessing DeepSeek over security and ethical concerns, CNBC reported.Topics
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  • VFXShow 292: Oscars and Alien: Romulus
    www.fxguide.com
    This week, we have a double ep (of sorts). We discuss the 2025 Oscar nominations, plus we do a (short) review of Alien: Romulus, the 2024 science fiction horror film directed by Fede lvarez and written by lvarez and Rodo Sayagues.We start with the team discussing the nominations for the Oscars in 2025, which are:ALIEN: ROMULUS: Eric Barba, Nelson Sepulveda-Fauser, Daniel Macarin and Shane MahanBETTER MAN: Luke Millar, David Clayton, Keith Herft and Peter StubbsDUNE: PART TWO: Paul Lambert, Stephen James, Rhys Salcombe and Gerd NefzerKINGDOM OF THE PLANET OF THE APES: Erik Winquist, Stephen Unterfranz, Paul Story and Rodney BurkeWICKED: Pablo Helman, Jonathan Fawkner, David Shirk and Paul CorbouldIn the second half of the show, we catch up on discussing Alien: Romulus, which we have not previously managed to review.Alien: Romulus follows Rain Carradine, an orphaned colonist at the struggling Jacksons Star settlement on the dark planet LV-410. After discovering that Weyland-Yutani has forcibly extended her work contract, she plans an escape with her friends and adopted brother Andy, a malfunctioning android. They commandeer a hauler to reach Renaissance, an abandoned Weyland-Yutani station, intending to steal cryostasis equipment for their journey to an independent planet. However, their mission takes a deadly turn when they accidentally release facehugger parasites.In a desperate attempt to regain control, Rain upgrades Andy with a security chip, only for him to become loyal to Weyland-Yutani. As the stations dark history is revealedincluding past experiments on a xenomorph recovered from the Nostromos wreckagethe group realizes they are trapped with a growing xenomorph threat. As the station hurtles toward destruction, the survivors face a harrowing fight against the creatures.Dont forget to subscribe to both the VFXShow and the fxpodcast to get both of our most popular podcasts.This week in space, our lineup is:Matt Wallin * @mattwallin www.mattwallin.com.Follow Matt on Mastodon: @[emailprotected]Jason Diamond @jasondiamond www.thediamondbros.comMike Seymour @mikeseymour. www.fxguide.com. + @mikeseymourSpecial thanks to Matt Wallin for the editing & production of the show with help from Jim Shen.
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  • Dwight Manufacturing Company Complex // 1841+
    buildingsofnewengland.com
    The Dwight Manufacturing Company is named for Edmund Dwight (1780-1849) of Boston, an industrialist who envisioned an industrial town on the Chicopee River. Dwight, having a country home in Chicopee, had begun a venture with his brother, Jonathan, at Chicopee Falls creating the Chicopee Manufacturing Company, to produce cotton cloth. Due to the companys immediate success, the Dwights along with other investors formed the Springfield Canal Company in 1831, with the goal to create the new Lowell, an industrial community in what is now Chicopee Center. In 1856, the Dwight Mills purchased some earlier mill complexes, creating the Dwight Manufacturing Company and consolidating all their cotton cloth manufacturing into one organization. In addition to the mills, the Company also built employee housing along Depot and Dwight Streets, a stones throw from the mills. The creation of employee housing allowed the Company to attract new employees in particular women and children, nearly all immigrants, who could be housed together. My favorite part of the complex is the entrance gate, built in 1894, connecting the Office and Cloth Building. It is amazing to think of all of the people who passed through this portal, working long hours for a better life. Overtime as production methods changed and technology evolved, nearly all the original mills would be replaced or retrofitted. Despite the changes, the Company could not remain profitable and shut down production in 1927 and ultimately selling the land and equipment in 1930. Some smaller manufacturing has since occupied some of these buildings, but they remain largely (if not entirely) vacant, awaiting a new life.
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  • Mistral AI says its Small 3 model is a local, open-source alternative to GPT-4o mini
    www.zdnet.com
    The new 24B-parameter LLM 'excels in scenarios where quick, accurate responses are critical.' In fact, the model can be run on a MacBook with 32GB RAM.
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  • The best GaN chargers of 2025: Expert tested
    www.zdnet.com
    You can now find compact, stylish, and highly efficient chargers with multiple ports as standard when you're looking to replace aging charging stations and solutions. The best options will remain cool under heavy use and charge everything from earbuds to laptops.There's never been a better time to upgrade your charging gear. But navigating the vast array of available chargers -- from the most reputable brands to those you should steer clear of -- can be overwhelming. However, over the past year, I have undertaken extensive testing, evaluating close to 300 GaN (gallium nitride) chargers of varying sizes, power outputs, and manufacturers.Also:This portable power station has a standout feature that makes camping safer than everWhether you're looking for the ultimate travel charger, a powerhouse for multiple devices, or the most efficient charger for your high-demand gadgets, this list has you covered. Say goodbye to the days of slow, overheating chargers and step into the future with these top-notch options. This testing and analysis has culminated in a carefully curated list of the very best chargers available today.What is the best GaN charger right now?Based on my extensive testing, my top pick for the best GaN charger overall is the Ugreen Nexode 300W GaN 5-Ports Desktop Charging Station, which is powerful enough to replace an entire array of standalone chargers. Whether you're searching for a sleek, portable charger or a powerful desktop option capable of charging multiple devices simultaneously, this list is crafted to help you find the perfect charger to meet your needs. Sort by All Number of USB ports Max port output Travel friendliness Features Max output The best GaN chargers of 2025 Show less View now at Ugreen This Ugreen GaN charger is an absolute beast. Built like a brick and equipped with five ports, it can replace a whole bank of standalone chargers. It's powerful, too, capable of a total output of 300W, which is more than twice what Apple's standard single-port 140W MacBook Pro charger can deliver.Read the review: Ugreen Nexode 300WWhile many chargers falter when placed under sustained heavy load, that's not the case with the Nexode 300W. This thing can output the full 300W indefinitely. It's a very stable, high-quality charger.Another thing I like about this charger is that the topmost USB-C port can always output 140W, no matter how many other ports are in use. You would normally pay beyond $250 for this model but it is currently on sale for $170.Ugreen Nexode 300W tech specs:Ports: 4 x USB-C and 1 x USB-A|Max single port output: 140W |Total power output: 300W |Dimensions: 105 x 105 x 35mm/4.1 x 4.1 x 1.4 inches |Weight: 622 g/22 oz Number of USB ports 8 Max port output 9 Travel friendliness 4 Features 7 Max output 9 Pros USB-C and USB-A ports Keeps cool no matter what the load Perfect if you have legacy USB-A devices Cons Very expensive Too heavy to carry about This Ugreen GaN charger is an absolute beast. Built like a brick and equipped with five ports, it can replace a whole bank of standalone chargers. It's powerful, too, capable of a total output of 300W, which is more than twice what Apple's standard single-port 140W MacBook Pro charger can deliver.Read the review: Ugreen Nexode 300WWhile many chargers falter when placed under sustained heavy load, that's not the case with the Nexode 300W. This thing can output the full 300W indefinitely. It's a very stable, high-quality charger.Another thing I like about this charger is that the topmost USB-C port can always output 140W, no matter how many other ports are in use. You would normally pay beyond $250 for this model but it is currently on sale for $170.Ugreen Nexode 300W tech specs:Ports: 4 x USB-C and 1 x USB-A|Max single port output: 140W |Total power output: 300W |Dimensions: 105 x 105 x 35mm/4.1 x 4.1 x 1.4 inches |Weight: 622 g/22 oz Read More Show Expert Take Show less Show less Being a frequent traveler, I've often felt that the gear I use on the road is a compromise, lacking the versatility, power, or quality of the equipment I've left at home or in the office. The need to balance weight and global compatibility invariably imposes constraints and limitations.Read the review: Satechi 145W USB-C 4-Port GaN travel chargerNot anymore! Not only does the Satechi 145W, 4-Port charger have four USB-C ports to keep all my devices topped up, but it also comes kitted with four interchangeable international adapters (EU/AU/UK/US), complemented by a mesh carrying bag for the ultimate convenience while traveling. And unlike some chargers I've tested, the adapters are easily interchangeable on this unit.And despite being smaller than Apple's 140W USB-C charger, two of its ports utilize Power Delivery 3.1 technology, each capable of providing up to 140W of power individually, while the other two ports support Power Delivery 3.0 and can each supply up to 45W when used singly.The reviews of this charger emphasize its build quality and solid design -- but don't make the mistake that some seem to make. Buy this charger if you need legacy USB-A charging support because this is one designed for modern workloads.You can pick up this charger on sale at Amazon for $65 with a 46% discount.Satechi 145W tech specs: Ports: 4 x USB-C|Max single port output: 140W |Total power output: 145W |Dimensions: 96 x 76 x 28mm/3.1 x 3.78 x 1.22 inches |Weight: 357 g/12.6 oz Number of USB ports 7 Max port output 9 Travel friendliness 8 Features 6 Max output 8 Pros Interchangeable plugs for worldwide support Powerful enough to charge a laptop Smaller than Apple's 140W USB-C charger Cons No USB-A legacy support Satechi 145W 4-Port USB-C charger Best GaN charger for traveling 3.8 / 5 Score Being a frequent traveler, I've often felt that the gear I use on the road is a compromise, lacking the versatility, power, or quality of the equipment I've left at home or in the office. The need to balance weight and global compatibility invariably imposes constraints and limitations.Read the review: Satechi 145W USB-C 4-Port GaN travel chargerNot anymore! Not only does the Satechi 145W, 4-Port charger have four USB-C ports to keep all my devices topped up, but it also comes kitted with four interchangeable international adapters (EU/AU/UK/US), complemented by a mesh carrying bag for the ultimate convenience while traveling. And unlike some chargers I've tested, the adapters are easily interchangeable on this unit.And despite being smaller than Apple's 140W USB-C charger, two of its ports utilize Power Delivery 3.1 technology, each capable of providing up to 140W of power individually, while the other two ports support Power Delivery 3.0 and can each supply up to 45W when used singly.The reviews of this charger emphasize its build quality and solid design -- but don't make the mistake that some seem to make. Buy this charger if you need legacy USB-A charging support because this is one designed for modern workloads.You can pick up this charger on sale at Amazon for $65 with a 46% discount.Satechi 145W tech specs: Ports: 4 x USB-C|Max single port output: 140W |Total power output: 145W |Dimensions: 96 x 76 x 28mm/3.1 x 3.78 x 1.22 inches |Weight: 357 g/12.6 oz Read More Show Expert Take Show less Show less Right out of the box, it's hard not to notice that this beefy charger weighs over a pound. The weight is an advantage because it keeps the charger planted on the desk while other lesser chargers get dragged about by the weight of the attached cables.Read the review: One of the best GaN USB-C chargers I've tested can top up 6 devices at onceThis is a powerful, well-made charger that's perfect for those who need to power multiple devices. I particularly like that this charger can support dual 100W output on the USB-C ports, as this means it can power a couple of MacBook Pros simultaneously. Sure, you don't get the full 140W the laptops can take, but 100W is adequate if you don't need the fastest possible charge rate.The two USB-A ports are handy for legacy devices that don't draw a lot of power, while the bank of four USB-C ports is more than enough for the majority of users.Then there's the price: $70. Yes, this charger is only $70.Anker 200W GaN 6-port charger tech specs:Ports: 4 x USB-C, 2 x USB-A |Max single port output: 100W |Total power output: 200W |Dimensions: 112 76 35 mm/4.4 3.0 1.4 inches|Weight: 563 g/1.24 lb Number of USB ports 7 Max port output 7 Travel friendliness 4 Features 6 Max output 7 Pros Perfect for those who don't have any legacy USB-A devices Decent bunch of USB-C ports Heavy presence on desk Cons Too heavy to be a travel charger Anker 200W Prime 6-port charger Best GaN desktop charger 3.1 / 5 Score Right out of the box, it's hard not to notice that this beefy charger weighs over a pound. The weight is an advantage because it keeps the charger planted on the desk while other lesser chargers get dragged about by the weight of the attached cables.Read the review: One of the best GaN USB-C chargers I've tested can top up 6 devices at onceThis is a powerful, well-made charger that's perfect for those who need to power multiple devices. I particularly like that this charger can support dual 100W output on the USB-C ports, as this means it can power a couple of MacBook Pros simultaneously. Sure, you don't get the full 140W the laptops can take, but 100W is adequate if you don't need the fastest possible charge rate.The two USB-A ports are handy for legacy devices that don't draw a lot of power, while the bank of four USB-C ports is more than enough for the majority of users.Then there's the price: $70. Yes, this charger is only $70.Anker 200W GaN 6-port charger tech specs:Ports: 4 x USB-C, 2 x USB-A |Max single port output: 100W |Total power output: 200W |Dimensions: 112 76 35 mm/4.4 3.0 1.4 inches|Weight: 563 g/1.24 lb Read More Show Expert Take Show less Show less View now at Zendure With this Zendure charger, you can charge up to three devices simultaneously. It's perfect for traveling and for use on road as it combines solid charging capabilities with a palm-sized form factor.And while 65W might not seem like much, this will run and top up an Apple MacBook Pro; if you have a smaller laptop, this unit could very well charge it at full power.The Zendure SuperPort S3 integrates a US plug, two USB-C and one USB-A port into a sleek all-in-one unit with universal compatibility for most devices.And better yet, it's only $30. Stocks are low, however, and so be quick if you're interested in this model.Zendure SuperPort S3 tech specs:Ports: 3 USB ports (2x USB-C & 1x USB-A)|Max single port output: 63/65W |Dimensions: 2.6 x 1.6 x 1.1 inches |Weight: 283 g/10 oz Pros USB-C and USB-A ports Power outlet prongs pack away tidy Affordable Cons Only one plug outlet With this Zendure charger, you can charge up to three devices simultaneously. It's perfect for traveling and for use on road as it combines solid charging capabilities with a palm-sized form factor.And while 65W might not seem like much, this will run and top up an Apple MacBook Pro; if you have a smaller laptop, this unit could very well charge it at full power.The Zendure SuperPort S3 integrates a US plug, two USB-C and one USB-A port into a sleek all-in-one unit with universal compatibility for most devices.And better yet, it's only $30. Stocks are low, however, and so be quick if you're interested in this model.Zendure SuperPort S3 tech specs:Ports: 3 USB ports (2x USB-C & 1x USB-A)|Max single port output: 63/65W |Dimensions: 2.6 x 1.6 x 1.1 inches |Weight: 283 g/10 oz Read More Show Expert Take Show less Show less The Nexode 100W charging station features three USB ports -- two USB-C and one USB-A -- that share 100W of output power between them. This means owners can charge a wide range of devices, from the latest MacBook Pro to an Apple Watch, AirPods, an iPad, or anything that has a USB port.And this device is no slouch, as it's capable of charging the new Apple M2 MacBook Pro from zero to 50% in just 30 minutes.Read the review: Ugreen Nexode 100W GaN Charger with MagSafeThe magnetic charging plate -- which is good with any iPhone from the iPhone 12 to the very latest iPhone 15, or an Android device that has wireless charging and a magnetic case -- can be angled up to 65 degrees, so users can choose the perfect viewing angle for the smartphone. And thanks to strong magnets, the iPhone can rotate 360 degrees to comfortably watch videos or participate in teleconferences while charging, all without the phone slipping off.Ugreen Nexode 100W GaN Charger with MagSafe:Ports: 2 x USB-C and 1 x USB-A and 1 x MagSafe charging pad|Max single port output: 100W |Total power output: 100W |Dimensions: 92 x 60 x 60 mm/3.6 x 2.4 x 2.4 inches |Weight: 862 g/30 oz Number of USB ports 6 Max port output 6 Travel friendliness 6 Features 6 Max output 6 Pros Premium quality MagSafe charging pad means no need for a cable to charge your iPhone Compact Two USB-C and one USB-A means you can charge a total of four devices simultaneously Cons Not cheap Ugreen Nexode 100W GaN Charger with MagSafe Best MagSafe GaN charger 3 / 5 Score The Nexode 100W charging station features three USB ports -- two USB-C and one USB-A -- that share 100W of output power between them. This means owners can charge a wide range of devices, from the latest MacBook Pro to an Apple Watch, AirPods, an iPad, or anything that has a USB port.And this device is no slouch, as it's capable of charging the new Apple M2 MacBook Pro from zero to 50% in just 30 minutes.Read the review: Ugreen Nexode 100W GaN Charger with MagSafeThe magnetic charging plate -- which is good with any iPhone from the iPhone 12 to the very latest iPhone 15, or an Android device that has wireless charging and a magnetic case -- can be angled up to 65 degrees, so users can choose the perfect viewing angle for the smartphone. And thanks to strong magnets, the iPhone can rotate 360 degrees to comfortably watch videos or participate in teleconferences while charging, all without the phone slipping off.Ugreen Nexode 100W GaN Charger with MagSafe:Ports: 2 x USB-C and 1 x USB-A and 1 x MagSafe charging pad|Max single port output: 100W |Total power output: 100W |Dimensions: 92 x 60 x 60 mm/3.6 x 2.4 x 2.4 inches |Weight: 862 g/30 oz Read More Show Expert Take Show less Which is the best GaN charger? Which is the best GaN charger? That depends on what you want from a charger. Some users want lots of ports and high power output. Some want a travel charger that's easy to carry around. For others, it might be having a mix of legacy USB-A and modern USB-C ports.This chart will help you pick the right GaN charger for you.ChargerPricePortsMax single port outputMax total outputUgreen Nexode 300W$1704 x USB-C and 1 x USB-A140W300WSatechi 145W$654 x USB-C140W145WAnker 200W Prime$704 x USB-C and 2 x USB-A100W200WZendure SuperPort S3 65W$302 x USB-C and 1 x USB-A65W65WUgreen Nexode 100W$1102 x USB-C and 1 x USB-A and 1 x MagSafe charging pad100W100W Show more What is the best GaN charger for you? That depends on what you want. Do you want power or something small that you can throw into a backpack when you travel? Do you need one port or many? Are you charging a smartphone or an array of devices?To help you narrow down the charger choices for you, I've put together a table highlighting the strengths of each charger.This charger is for youIf you want...Ugreen Nexode 300WA big, powerful desktop charger with a legacy USB-A port. This is about as big -- and as good -- as they get. It's pricey but worth it as a future-proof investment.Satechi 145WYou want a powerful travel adapter for all your USB-C devices. This will let you charge whatever you have, wherever you are. There's no USB-A support, though.Anker 200W Prime You want lots of USB-C and USB-A ports and you want a charger with a big desktop presence. If you have multiple power-hungry devices, this is for you.Zendure SuperPort S3 65WTravel is your thing, and you want something small and convenient. It's small, but it packs a punch.Ugreen Nexode 100WYou want a desktop charger with the convenience of MagSafe. You can charge up to four devices simultaneously. Show more Factors to consider when choosing a GaN charger A variety of factors impact the quality and usability of the GaN charger. Here are some things to take into consideration before buying one:Type of ports: Are you happy with USB-C only, or do you still need USB-A for legacy devices?Power output: If you're charging smartphones and tablets, then a charger that can support 25W or 65W is ample, but if you are charging big devices such as laptops, then you're going to need a charger that will support 100W or even 140W of power.How many ports: The more ports a charger has, the bigger and heavier it is. Consider how many you might need, and whether or not you would be willing to lose a port or two in exchange for a smaller form factor.Interchangeable plugs: If you are traveling abroad, having a charger that comes with interchangeable plugs is really handy.Your actual needs versus your fantasy requirements: Some people -- I'm one -- are drawn to this "bigger is better" way of thinking when sometimes what you need is portability. There's nothing wrong with having a massive charger brimming with ports, but remember, if you want to take this with you on the road or traveling, those extra ounces will start to feel like pounds.Price: When you're thinking about picking up a new GaN charger, you will, of course, need to think about how much you're willing to spend. While a cheaper option might be attractive, if you want a charger that will last you for years to come, you might want to spend a little more. Show more How we test GaN chargers Every year, I test dozens of GaN chargers, both in the test lab and in real-world conditions, and there are certain things I look for in a charger if it is to make it onto my recommended list. ZDNET authors who contributed to this article have also extensively researched the best offerings on the market and customer feedback.First, does it do what it says it will do? This isn't as easy as plugging it in to see if it will work, but I also test the charger under heavy and sustained loads (because even a poor-quality charger might be able to work for a few minutes). I also test single-port loads and multi-port loads to make sure these are in line with the specs. A charger needs to output the rated power for several hours to get a passing grade.Is the charger safe? I carry out several electrical safety tests, and also thermal measurements -- because no one wants an overheating charger in the home.Is it robust? Can it handle being plugged and unplugged repeatedly? Are the ports good quality? Can the charger handle being dropped and kicked about? This is the sort of abuse it will get in day-to-day use, especially if it's a travel charger.What do users say?I connect my hands-on experience with the thoughts and feedback of past customers to learn about its benefits -- and potential pain points. Show more FAQs on GaN chargers What is gallium nitride (GaN)? Gallium nitride (the chemical formula for this is GaN) is a crystal-like semiconductor material with special properties.GaN has been used in electronics for decades, starting with LEDs in the 1990s, where it was used to emit light to TVs and computer displays before finding its way into transistors, and nowadays it is replacing the industry's previous favorite semiconductor material: silicon.And it is these transistors that are the key to making GaN chargers special. GaN transistors, also known as GaN FETs, are smaller, can carry more power, switch faster, and are more power-efficient than their silicon counterparts. This makes them ideal for applications in USB-C adapters, chargers, and power distribution systems. Show more So what's the big deal with GaN transistors and how do they make for better chargers? A transistor is a tiny electronic switch that opens and closes really fast, and GaN has several advantages over silicon when used in transistors. Not only are GaN transistors smaller than silicon transistors, but they can carry more power, switch faster (around 40 million times a second, roughly four times faster than silicon transistors), and are much more power efficient.While silicon transistors have a power efficiency of around 87%, GaN transistors boost this efficiency to over 95%.The reduction in transistor size means that newer GaN USB chargers can be physically smaller than the older silicon technology chargers. And while it's nice to have smaller chargers, it is the increased efficiency that is the most important factor when it comes to USB chargers because the more efficient an electronic component is, the less waste heat it generates.Consumers are, understandably, concerned when chargers feel hot to the touch. While it is common for chargers that use silicon transistors to get to the point of almost being too hot to touch, I find it rare for a charger using GaN technology to feel mildly warm.The faster switching also means that a GaN transistor inside a charger can have better control over the charging and respond to events such as overheating or overvoltage much quicker than older transistors could, making them safer in use. Show more Can you use an adapter to change a USB-C port into one that will take a USB-A connector? Yes. (Bear in mind that these add yet another thing to lose or forget, and something else to break.) Show more Something likethis orthis will do the job.When it comes to chargers, how hot is too hot? When I'm testing devices, I have set 45C/113F as the point at which I start to have concerns. This is the temperature at which things stop feeling hot and people start feeling pain, according to thesafe "no injury" temperature range chart.TheASTM C1055(the Standard Guide for Heated System Surface Conditions that Produce Contact Burn Injuries) states that the average person can touch objects up to 60C/140F for up to five seconds without sustaining irreversible burn injuries. Show more Are there alternative best GaN accessories worth considering?If you are looking for a more specific charger, consider these top picks for the best GaN accessories. Further ZDNET Tech Coverage Smartphones Smartwatches Tablets Laptops TVs Other Tech Resources ZDNET Recommends
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  • AT&T Refines Subscriber Experience With New Service Guarantee And More
    www.forbes.com
    AT&T is using a variety of means, including an industry-first service-level guarantee for consumers, ... [+] in an effort to elevate customer experience for subscribers.gettyFollowing my participation at the AT&T Analyst and Investor Day in December, I had an opportunity to speak with Jenifer Robertson, executive vice president and general manager of the companys Mass Markets business unit that provides consumer wireless and wireline services. I was eager to spend more time with her discussing what AT&T is doing to elevate subscriber experiences, especially given that her remit at AT&T is so large, representing the operators biggest revenue stream $90 billion.During our one-on-one, we discussed a range of topics including the recent launch of the AT&T Guarantee and last years Turbo announcements, the value of converged mobility and fiber services, the application of generative AI in call center and field engagements and expanded connectivity via low earth orbit satellites. With that context set, lets dive in.Service Level Agreements For ConsumersEarlier this month, the carrier launched the AT&T Guarantee, a customer-first promise across the companys wireless and fiber networks. Its an audacious commitment that encompasses service availability, deals on both equipment and related subscriptions and, crucially, customer care. The AT&T Guarantee aims to elevate the subscriber experience by offering consistently favorable pricing and prompt, friendly service a public commitment to continuously improve customer service delivery.Robertson told me that this effort has been in the planning stages for a number of years, and I believe that the AT&T Guarantee has the potential to both foster existing customer loyalty and facilitate new customer acquisition. One of the barometers of communication service provider success is maintaining low subscriber churn rates, with a goal of 1% or less. What I like about the AT&T Guarantee is that it is a proactive versus reactive effort to accomplish this objective. The cost to acquire new subscribers is significant and retaining them is equally important from a profitability standpoint.To address the latter, AT&T is also focusing on new value-added services. A great example of this is AT&Ts Turbo offering, which was launched in May of last year. Turbo gives customers the opportunity to purchase a data performance boost to foster smoother responsiveness for applications such as gaming, streaming, social video broadcasting and live video conferencing. From my perspective, AT&T Turbo clearly demonstrates AT&Ts continued investment in making its mobile networks more programmable and responsive to the demands of latency-intensive applications.Jenifer Robertson, executive vice president and general manager of AT&T Mass MarketsAT&TMORE FOR YOUThe Value Of Converged ConnectivityAt the analyst event, Robertson spoke about the economic lifetime value that continues to materialize for AT&T with customers who subscribe to both its consumer mobility and broadband fiber services. During our conversation, she and I dove deeper into the customer value that is generated in the form of higher satisfaction and lower switching. AT&T has firmly established high customer satisfaction scores with its business wireless services, as evidenced by top rankings from J.D. Power over the past three years.I believe the company can do the same with consumers through its reinvigorated approach under the AT&T Guarantee. Additionally, consolidated billing, new services like AT&T Turbo and the use of modern AI-driven applications all have the potential to delight current consumer customers and drive net-new fiber and mobility adds. Net promoter scores for its consumer operations and its pricing are trending in a positive direction for AT&T, indicating that the carrier is making real strides in accomplishing its objectives.Transforming Customer Support With Generative AIOne of the important emerging use cases for generative AI is transforming customer support. AT&T has long embraced AI and machine learning through its practical research efforts, something I wrote about in 2020. A customer-facing example of these efforts emerged in 2023, when AT&T and Nvidia teamed up to facilitate intelligent service truck rolls.These days, generative AI is front and center. AT&T began to harness it last year with the goal of transforming both its call center and field service operations. Robertson reports that generative AI is already reducing customer callback times by a staggering 50%. These efforts are part of a multi-year journey, helping customers with additional self-service diagnostics that deliver more accurate responses. Furthermore, these tools sense customer sentiment and defuse frustration, ultimately enhancing subscriber interactions with the company.Generative AI is also improving field service technician productivity and efficiency, allowing AT&T to serve more customers and enhance interactions through higher degrees of personalization. The company is carrying out ongoing trials to engage customers more effectively using AI-enhanced tools that aim to free technician time and enhance customer interactions.Dallas, We Have A ConnectionAT&T and AST SpaceMobile can trace their partnership back several years to initial investigations leveraging low earth orbit satellites, terrestrial spectrum and unmodified smartphone connectivity. The collaboration was further strengthened by a commercial agreement and financial investment announced last May, followed by AST SpaceMobiles first commercial satellite launch last September.During our conversation, Robertson emphasized the value that AT&T places on facilitating connectivity everywhere and how burgeoning LEO satellite deployments serve as a vital element to fill coverage gaps. AT&T can leverage satellites to bridge the digital divide in less densely populated regions that are underserved by radio access network infrastructure. This is even more significant given the carriers large subscriber and infrastructure footprint, and it could grow over time as AST SpaceMobile continues to launch additional satellites.AT&Ts Vision For Long-Term Subscriber ExperienceAs we concluded our conversation, Robertson shared her vision for AT&Ts Mass Markets business, with an emphasis on the notion of revenue durability. I define telecom durability through its ability to deliver consumer value beyond free streaming services and discounted tickets to movies, concerts and sporting events. For Robertson, durability means offering the best pricing and assurance for standard broadband and wireless services and the underlying equipment, introducing innovative new services and ensuing delightful customer support when problems arise.AT&T wants to be the connectivity provider of choice for U.S. households, and by all measures it is executing against that goal. The company is on pace to double its fiber install base, with investments totaling $140 billion in networks and customer care over the last five years. However, throwing money at improving reliable and secure connectivity services is not enough. AT&T has faced challenges in the past delivering on the promise of providing consumers with delightful experiences, but it is now demonstrating a reinvigorated approach that has the potential to level up its efforts.
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