We may earn a commission from links on this page.Its become fashionable to hate on Valentines Day, and I get itthe commercialization; the unreasonable expectations; the bland commodification of a deeply human experience. But here's why I clarify that it's also OK to love love. Its OK to look forward to Valentines Day, whether because youve found your own storybook romance (whatever it looks like), or because you enjoy watching other people navigate the many possible relationship complications. Here are 25 movies that celebrate love, ranging from dark to outright comedic, If the expectations of V-Day start to feel overwhelming, throwing on a movie might offer you a break, or a reminder of why you are making the effort in the first place.Moonstruck (1987) Cher and Nicolas Cage are such distinctive, idiosyncratic performers that its hard to imagine a romantic pairing between the two being something other than a cartoon. Instead, its one of the great film romances of all time, with engaged widow Loretta Castorini falling for her boyfriends younger brother. That love triangle is the films core, but the troubled marriage of Lorettas parents, played by Olympia Dukakis and Vincent Gardenia is a significant piece of the films heart. While most rom-coms deal with young people and first love, Moonstrucksuggests that that theres room for romance even as life grows more complicated in middle age. You can stream Moonstruck on Prime Video, Tubi, Freevee, and The Criterion Channel. Moonstruck (1987) at Freevee Learn More Learn More at Freevee Gods Own Country (2017) Until relatively recently, gay romances (even many of the comedies) with happy endings were rather shockingly rare, with Gods Own Country representing a firm shift away from what felt like a dramatic necessity that these types of stories end in tragedy. Its more pronounced here, because it simply doesnt feel like the kind of movie thats going to end well. Josh OConnor (The Crowns Prince Charles) and Alec Secreanu play Yorkshire farmer Johnny and Romanian migrant worker Gheorghe. The initially tempestuous relationship that develops really does feel like its headed for tragedy ( la Brokeback Mountain), which makes the films unexpected turn even more joyous. You can rent God's Own Country from Prime Video. Gods Own Country (2017) at Prime Video Learn More Learn More at Prime Video The Philadelphia Story (1940) This is one of Hollywoods all-time team-ups, with director George Cukor at the helm of a Katherine Hepburn vehicle in which shes pursued by both Cary Grant and James Stewart (and, of course, her fianc played by John Howardbut he never really has a chance). Its hard to know who to root for. In one regard, this was Hepburns own attempt to manage and soften her public imageit worked, but only by adding shades to the perception of her as a woman in command. Even when shes back-footed by the men in her life, shes still the whole show, bandying brilliant dialogue in a movie that veers effortlessly from sophisticated to screwball. You can stream The Philadelphia Story on Tubi or rent it from Prime Video. The Philadelphia Story (1940) at Prime Video Learn More Learn More at Prime Video Love & Basketball (2000) As the title suggests, the film and its characters are split between forces that seem to be in opposition. Monica and Quincy (Sanaa Lathan and Omar Epps) share hoop dreams from their first meeting as children, as well as an attraction that grows over the years. What keeps them apart is the game that they both love, and their dedication to divergent careers in sports. Its a sports movie, in part, but one in which the central relationship is more important than any big game. You can stream Love & Basketball on Max and Tubi or rent it from Prime Video. Love & Basketball (2000) at Max Learn More Learn More at Max Fire Island (2022) A bunch of friends go on vacation at the queer destination, only to find that social class is no less prevalent among modern gay friends than it was for the leads in Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice, on which this is very explicitly based. Joel Kim Booster plays Noah, the Elizabeth Bennett character interested in Conrad Ricamora's rich lawyer Will, while Bowen Yank plays his friend Howiefat (at least by movie standards), femme, and Asian, and insecure about all of it. As in the novel, the paths toward true(-ish) love hit some bumps, but it's a reminder that, in romantic narratives, things haven't changed all that much. You can stream Fire Island on Hulu. Fire Island (2022) at Hulu Learn More Learn More at Hulu Palm Springs (2020) If you could live your life without consequences, what, or who, could make you ever want to truly change? In this twist on Groundhog Day, Andy Samberg plays Nyles who, we learn, has been stuck in a time loop on the day of a wedding in Palm Springs for quite some time, mostly doing whatever the hell he wants when not being hunted by Roy (J. K. Simmons) who's stuck with him in the loop and blames Myles for his awful fate. Cristin Milioti's Sarah is soon drawn in with them, but when real feelings start to develop between her and Nyles, a life devoid of forward motion starts to seem less than ideal. You can stream Palm Springs on Hulu. Palm Springs (2020) at Hulu Learn More Learn More at Hulu Before Sunset (2004) This middle chapter of director Richard Linklaters trilogy might not have the most unambiguously happy ending of the three, but its the most memorableone of the great romantic movie endings of all time, really. Reuniting nearly a decade after Before Sunrise, Jesse and Cline (Ethan Hawke and Julie Delpy) spend a day roaming Paris, at which point the two are forced to decide whether or not theyre willing to leave their present dissatisfying lives and relationshipsa scene perfectly set to Nina Simone. You can rent Before Sunset from Prime Video. Before Sunset (2004) at Prime Video Learn More Learn More at Prime Video Crazy Rich Asians (2018) Family is the biggest barrier to lasting love in Crazy Rich Asians, the rare example of a crowd-pleasing modern blockbuster that doesnt involve car chases or capes. Constance Wu plays New York native Rachel Chu, an economics professor from a poor family who learns a little too late that her boyfriend Nick (Henry Golding) is the scion of one of Singapores wealthiest families. Shes not prepared for the level of conspicuous wealth, nor the snobbery she encounters when she travels with him for a family weddingRachels forced to decide if she can handle the pressure and judgement from Nicks family, and if she even wants to. The happy ending here does not come easy for anyone. You can stream Crazy Rich Asians on Max or rent it from Prime Video. Crazy Rich Asians (2018) at Max Learn More Learn More at Max The Shape of Water (2017) The course of true love is unlikely to ever run smooth in a Guillermo del Toro movie, this story of the cleaner in a Cold War-era laboratory and the alluring fish-man with whom she develops a relationship. What follows is a dark fairy-tale romance with elements of horror that place it firmly in the classic Grimm tradition, but with an atypically happy outcome. You can rent The Shape of Water from Prime Video. The Shape of Water (2017) at Prime Video Learn More Learn More at Prime Video The Shop Around the Corner (1940) Launching a thousand similar movies, most of which arent half as good, The Shop Around the Corner isnt the first time that mistaken identity was central to a romance, nor the first time that mutual loathing turned (slowly) to love, but its never really been done with quite this level of style. Set at a shop in Budapest leading up to the Christmas season, Margaret Sullivan and James Stewart play competing co-workers who are always at each others throats, even as they develop a romantic relationship via their anonymous correspondence (neither knowing that theyre falling in love with their real-life nemesis). Its cute, but never silly, and with all the frothy trademarks of director Ernst Lubitsch. You can rent The Shop Around the Corner from Prime Video. The Shop Around the Corner (1940) at Prime Video Learn More Learn More at Prime Video Love, Simon (2018) Nick Robinson is closeted high schooler Simon, who takes inspiration from the anonymous confession of a similarly closeted student in his school. Without knowing the true identity of Blue, Simon strikes up an online friendship that turns into something more. Think The Shop Around the Corner, or Youve Got Mail, with modern queer high schoolers. You can rent Love Simon from Prime Video. Love, Simon (2018) Learn More Learn More It Happened One Night (1934) The template for a million romantic comedies to come, It Happened One Night, despite appearing during the awkward early years of sound, and at the equally awkward end of the pre-Code era, remains unsurpassed in its charm and sexiness. Claudette Colbert and Clark Gable have terrific chemistry, and their relationship is one of near-equalssomething that the coming Production Code would make nearly impossible for decades. In that way, it feels more modern than any number of much more recent movies. Its also one of only three films to have won an Academy Award in every major category, and deservedly so. You can stream It Happened One Night on Tubi and The Criterion Channel or rent it from Prime Video. It Happened One Night (1934) at Prime Video Learn More Learn More at Prime Video Rafiki (2018) Kena (Samantha Mugatsia) is the daughter of a Nairobi shopkeeper, helping her dad run the store while she prepares for nursing school. Ziki (Sheila Munyiva), on the other hand, mostly just hangs out with her friends and makes up dances. Their attraction is instantaneous, but they only meet because their fathers are running against each other for county assembly. Their love story, in a place where its illegal, threatens to complicate their familys lives as much as their own, but the film still maintains a wonderfully bright, colorful, and musical, atmosphere, leading to a happy endingeven if that ending takes some time. You can rent Rafiki from Prime Video. Rafiki (2018) at Prime Video Learn More Learn More at Prime Video 10 Things I Hate About You (1999) The modern classic, but very 90s, rom-com that retells The Taming of the Shrew in an American high school. And without some of the ugly misogyny. The films concluding exchange of a guitar for the title poem is delightfully memorabletheres a reason the movie made stars of Julia Stiles and Heath Ledger. You can stream 10 Things I Hate About You on Disney+ or rent it from Prime Video. 10 Things I Hate About You (1999) at Disney+ Learn More Learn More at Disney+ Shelter (2007) Aspiring artist Zach (Trevor Wright) has had to give up his dreams of art school, literally flipping burgers in order to support his disabled father and young nephew. The vibe being so very SoCal, Zach spends whatever free time he has painting and surfing, and starts hanging out with his best friends older brother, Shaun (Brad Rowe). Its very nearly love at first sight, none of which makes Zachs family problems go awayfortunately, Shauns not going anywhere and, by the end, the two have formed not just a relationship, but a family. You can stream Shelter on Here TV. Shelter (2007) at Here TV Learn More Learn More at Here TV Love Jones (1997) Smart and atmospheric, Love Jones didnt do much at the box office back in 1997, but its developed bit of a cult following since. Larenz Tate plays Chicago poet Darius, who develops an instant attraction to photographer Nina Mosley (Nic Long). The films blues-y, bohemian setting in a world of middle-class Black artists and intellectuals was unusual in the 90s, and not all that much less so today, which lends the film a style and intelligence that stands apart. The essential question of any romantic drama (will they or wont they?) is left to the very last moments here. You can rent Love Jones from Prime Video. Love Jones (1997) Learn More Learn More My Fair Lady (1964) In the abstract, a movie about a wealthy aristocrat who molds a poor young woman into his female ideal doesn't sound like it the stuff romances are made of. Audrey Hepburn plays Galatea Eliza Doolittle, a Cockney street peddler whose societal rehabilitation becomes the personal project of Rex Harrison's Henry Higgins, who is eager to prove that even a poor can mingle with the upper crust if provided the right training and elocution (a not entirely regressive notion). She's game, for a time, but comes to realize that she's not content to be an experimentwhich, in turn, leads Higgins to understand that the things he's come to love about her don't need fixing. Aw, you realized a woman has agency! Have a cookie. You can rent My Fair Lady from Prime Video. My Fair Lady (1964) at Prime Video Learn More Learn More at Prime Video The Princess and the Frog (2009) There's a classic Disney set-up at the heart of the company's last big 2-D animated princess story, set in New Orleans in the Roaring '20s. Tiana (Anika Noni Rose) works multiple jobs hoping to save enough money to open her own restaurant. When she is asked to make beignets for the wedding of the arrogant Prince Naveen, fate finds her mistaken for a princessand both she and Naveen turned into frogs due to the scheming of a villain looking to steal the prince's fortune. By the end of this enemies-to-lovers story, each of them proves willing to sacrifice their human lives if it means they can be together. You can stream The Princess and the Frog on Disney+ or rent it from Prime Video. The Princess and the Frog (2009) at Disney+ Learn More Learn More at Disney+ Barefoot in the Park (1967) A little old-fashioned even in 1967, theres so much chemistry among a cast headlined by Jane Fonda, Robert Redford, and Charles Boyer that it all works as a charming comedy (from a Neil Simon play) about a newlywed couple who very quickly come to believe that theyve made a horrible mistake. Comedic and romantic complications ensue before a drunken climax on the roof of an apartment building leads to cheers from the supporting cast. You can rent Barefoot in the Park from Prime Video. Barefoot in the Park (1967) at Prime Video Learn More Learn More at Prime Video The Photograph (2020) A photograph left behind by her deceased mother leads Mae (Issa Rae) to explore her own familys past, while also bringing her into the orbit of a young journalist played by Lakeith Stanfield. Learning about her mothers mistakes ultimately leads Mae to think twice before turning love away in this beautifully shot, multi-generational love story. You can stream The Photograph on Freevee or rent it from Prime Video. The Photograph (2020) at Freevee Learn More Learn More at Freevee Desert Hearts (1985) Desert Hearts was an absolute breath of fresh air during an era in which queer characters were typically either serial killers or themselves dying of HIV/AIDS. Here, Vivian (Helen Shaver), an English professor in the middle of a divorce, meets Cay (Patricia Charbonneau), an uninhibited sculptor, at a ranch in Reno. Vivian struggles a bit with the unexpected lesbian attraction, but this romantic drama never veers toward tragedy, and is all the better for it. After years as a gem of queer cinema, the perception of the movie, of late, places it more in the category of outright classic. You can stream Desert Hearts on Max and The Criterion Channel or rent it from Prime Video. Desert Hearts (1985) at Max Learn More Learn More at Max Loving (2016) Based on the true story of the couple who took a challenge to their marriage all the way to the Supreme Court, Joel Edgerton and Ruth Negga play the couple who were arrested shortly after their marriage under Virginias anti-miscegenation laws. Its a love story that, quite literally, changed the course of history. You can stream Loving on Peacock or rent it from Prime Video. Loving (2016) at Peacock Learn More Learn More at Peacock The Lady Eve (1941) Im not convinced that a lot of real-life romances begin as con-jobs, but it absolutely seems to work in the movies, and rarely better than in this Preston Sturges classic. Barbara Stanwyck is out to fleece shy, clueless beer heir Henry Fonda. Stanwyck is never anything less than completely shameless, and yet, somehow, youre still cheering for her to get her man. You can stream The Lady Eve on The Criterion Channel or rent it from Prime Video. The Lady Eve (1941) at Prime Video Learn More Learn More at Prime Video The Princess Bride (1987) There are any number of great romantic moments in The Princess Bride, all leading to an ingenious fairytale ending. Its the silly, swoon-worthy moment, though, when Westley (Cary Elwes) and Buttercup (Robin Wright) are reunited following a long absence that qualifies as the films most romantic, with Buttercup only realizing that shes met her true love after she throws him down a hill. Theres only one thing to do when in the grip of one of films all-time great romances: throw yourself right down after him. You can stream The Princess Bride on Disney+ or buy it from Prime Video. The Princess Bride (1987) at Disney+ Get Deal Get Deal at Disney+ Little Women (1994) As a Louisa May Alcott obsessive, I prefer Greta Gerwig's 2019 take on Little Women; a appreciate the way her version blurs Alcott's biography with Jo's character in the final act, cleverly acknowledging that Jo's romance with the older, duller Professor Bhaer was a puckish move on the author's part, rather than something we're meant to swoon over (were it not for editorial and audience demands, Alcott would have let Jo remain happily single). This 1994 take, however, pulls a similarly impressive feat in centering that romance and actually making us care about it. By the time Winona Ryder and Gabriel Byrne are kissing in the rain in the final moments, it's hard not to cheer them on. (Laurie is still an idiot though.) You can rent Little Women on Prime Video. Little Women (1994) at Prime Video Learn More Learn More at Prime Video

As anyone who has ever tried to design their home knows all too well, neutral always works. Beige, white, and various subtle shades of gray are the safe choices in any roomthey may not be exciting, but they also wont irritate you over time or cause your guests to whisper about your choices behind your back. That safety combined with a long-running trend toward minimalist and uncluttered spaces has led to the color popa blast of vibrant color as an accent to add a dash of drama to your otherwise bland spaces.But as concepts like unexpected red demonstrate, you arent confined to painting an accent wall or buying a big red sofa when you want that pop of color. While picking one wall to paint a bold color is an easy way to bring energy to your room, that bold color can work in a wide variety of ways and in often unexpected spots. If youre looking to turn up the color drama in your home, think about adding color in some of these less predictable spots.Behind the toiletIf your bathroom is a bit monochromatic, you might be looking for a way to bring color into the space. You have a lot of options, of course, ranging from colorful towels to an accent shower wallbut if you want something unexpected that concentrates the impact of a color pop, put it behind the toilet. Its a bold choice that serves to define space in an open concept bathroom, with the (most likely) white toilet providing a touch of contrast that will make the color pop even more effectiveor choose a toilet thats not white for a more complex interaction.Inside cabinets and shelvingPainting the interior of cabinets in your kitchen or bookshelves in other rooms of the house creates a pop of color with a bit of surprise that also adds dimension to your storage, giving the impression of hidden depths. For a little extra oomph with your color pop, consider using wallpaper with a graphic design inside those cabinets and shelves. Every time you open up a cabinet to grab a coffee mug, youll be rewarded with a blast of vivid color.Interior doorsIf your interior doors are all white or neutral colors, an easy way to bring a pop of color into the room is to paint that door. Its a large enough area to make an impact, but not so large as to overwhelm the space. If you leave the trim and surrounding wall a neutral color it will emphasize the color pop and really make it stand out.Window sills and trimThe inverse of painting an interior wall while leaving the trim white is painting the trim in the room a pop color while leaving everything else neutral. This has the effect of stretching that color pop throughout the room, making it part of the overall design without introducing a monolithic slab of color in one spot. If you have a picture window or other large window, using it as a transparent accent wall by painting the trim an eye-drawing color is a nice variation on the concept.FloorYou can create an accent area in your room utilizing the flooreither by painting a portion of it (yes, really) selecting a section to tile in a bold color or by simply dropping a brightly-colored area rug in the right spot. This allows you to leave the rest of the room in a neutral palette while still getting the effect of a color pop. Using an area rug also makes it easy to swap out different colors any time you want without having to break out the paint brushes or the sledgehammer.CeilingsAnother alternative to the accent wall is the accent ceiling, which works best in a small space, like a bathroom or small guest bedroomin larger spaces it can get a little overwhelming. High ceilings amplify the impact, drawing the eyes up and emphasizing the height of the space while making a small room feel larger; but even if your ceilings arent that high painting them a bold color is unexpected and will surprise anyone who walks into the room (in a good way).StairsThe risers on your stairs are often overlooked opportunities for some design funtheyre essentially a series of blank canvases. Since most people take stairs for granted, encountering stairs that have bright colors or bold patterns (using paint or wallpaper) on each riser will startle and delight people, and since the stairs are visible from the room but not part of the room, its a great way to get just a little bit of subtle color pop into a space.AppliancesFinally, if youve been riding the stainless steel kitchen appliance trend for the century or two its been in effect (or maybe it just feels like centuries), consider replacing (or vinyl wrapping) one with something more colorful. This very literally breaks up the otherwise fairly neutral color palette of a neutral kitchen with monochromatic appliances. For a more cohesive and visible impact, combine a colorful appliance with painted cabinet interiors.

Roblox, Discord, OpenAI and Google are launching a nonprofit organization called ROOST, or Robust Open Online Safety Tools, which hopes "to build scalable,interoperable safety infrastructure suited for the AI era."The organization plans on providing free, open-source safety tools to public and private organizations to use on their own platforms, with a special focus on child safety to start. The press release announcing ROOST specifically calls out plans to offer "tools to detect, review, and report child sexual abuse material (CSAM)." Partner companies are providing funding for these tools, and the technical expertise to build them, too.The operating theory of ROOST is that access to generative AI is rapidly changing the online landscape, making the need for "reliable and accessible safety infrastructure" all the more urgent. And rather than expect a smaller company or organization to create their own safety tools from scratch, ROOST wants to provide them, free of charge.Child online safety has been the issue du jour since the Children and Teen's Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA) and Kids Online Safety Act (KOSA) started making their way through Congress, even though both failed to pass in the House. At least some of the companies involved in ROOST, specifically Google and OpenAI, have also already pledged to stop AI tools from being used to generate CSAM.The child safety issue is even more pressing for Roblox. As of 2020, two-thirds of all US children between nine and 12 play Roblox, and the platform has historically struggled to address child safety. Bloomberg Businessweek reported that the company had a "pedophile problem" in 2024, which prompted multiple policy changes and new restrictions around children's DMs. ROOST won't make all of these problems go away, but should make dealing with them easier for any other organization or company that finds itself in Roblox's position.This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/big-tech/roblox-discord-openai-and-google-found-new-child-safety-group-194445241.html?src=rss

Lyft is scrambling to compete as Uber racks up autonomous vehicle (AV) partners. On Monday, Lyft said it partnered with Japanese conglomerate Marubeni to bring robotaxis to Dallas roads as soon as next year before expanding to thousands of vehicles in other cities.Its the first fruit from Lyfts Mobileye partnership, announced in November. TechCrunch notes that the Intel-owned Mobileyes tech is already available in models from (among others) Audi, Ford, GM, Nissan and Volkswagen. Lyft hasnt yet said which automaker(s) its partnering with for the Dallas rollout. But Lyft executive vice president of driver experience Jeremy Bird told TechCrunch that its in talks with every major autonomous carmaker.Marubeni, which owns subsidiaries in industries ranging from cereal to fossil fuels (fortunately, not in the same product), owns and manages fleets with over 900,000 vehicles across the globe. The companys Mobileye-equipped robotaxis will be available for folks in Dallas to hail through the Lyft app after the program launches.Although the Dallas launch will serve as Lyfts pilot program for Mobileye AVs, it may not end up being the companys next robotaxi rollout. Last year, it also partnered with AV company May Mobility and aims to bring robotaxis with its tech to Atlanta sometime in 2025.The pressure is on Lyft to keep up, as Uber has inked deals with a long list of companies in the AV space, including Avride, Aurora Innovation, Nuro, Waabi and Wayve. Uber and Alphabets Waymo also plan to launch AV fleets in Austin and Atlanta early this year. (The waitlist is already open.) Tesla has also said it plans to introduce its first autonomous vehicle service in Austin this June.This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/transportation/lyft-aims-for-a-2026-dallas-launch-of-its-first-mobileye-robotaxis-190137968.html?src=rss

Looking for NYT Connections answers and hints? Here's all you need to know to solve today's game, plus my commentary on the puzzles.

Looking for NYT Strands answers and hints? Here's all you need to know to solve today's game, including the spangram.

Last month, Elon Musks social media platform X announced it was launching a digital wallet service. Users would be able to transfer money from their bank accounts to a wallet on X, bringing the platform one step closer to its much-promised Everything App destiny. The announcement was met on Bluesky and X with a torrent of jokes on a similar theme: the wallet inspector. Congrats to Elon on his long-awaited move into the wallet inspector business, wrote Edward Niedermeyer, author of a book on Tesla. And that was before Musks Department of Government Efficiency started poking around inside the national treasury.Its early still, but the wallet inspector is already the frontrunner for the defining meme of 2025.It comes from a 1993 Simpsons episode called Homer Goes to College, written by Conan OBrien. In the pivotal scene, Homer has just gotten a trio of nerds expelled from their university, and he feels remorseful about it. No sooner does one of the geeks assure him they can take care of themselves, though, then they are confronted by the town thief, who introduces himself as the wallet inspector, and holds out his hand in solicitation. The group doesnt hesitate for a second, leaving the thief stunned that his dumb plan succeeded.Its funny to contemplate a thief lazy enough to give the wallet inspector gambit a go. Its also funny to imagine a squad of marks so sheltered and credulous, they believe this is standard procedure. And it may be funniest of all to think about a third party like Homer observing this exchange and, in the scenes final beat, despairing: Thats not the wallet inspector.That the same versatile term can be deployed to evoke three separate sets of behaviors may be why it already seeped into cultural vernacular years ago. But the convergence of so much openly shady behavior and corresponding gullibility in recent months has made the wallet inspector especially relevant in 2025. Its an ideal flourish for a moment when the mere suggestion of legitimacy, and a lack of shame, can take you seemingly anywhere.The day-to-day experience of life in 2025when our institutions are crumbling, the barbarians are no longer even at the gates but within them, and no wretched outcome seems off the tableis pushing those with the capacity to take it all in toward a mindset of total distrust. Anyone steeped in that worldview can only look upon their neighbors who still have faith in anythinglaws, public safety, basic decencyas grade-A suckers.When a legal scholar thinks the constitution is inherently inviolable, even after daily evidence of Musk and his minions openly flouting it, they are ready for the wallet inspector.When a Republican Senator who lived through the last decade is still surprised Donald Trump did not stick to his word, its inspection time.And when DraftKings offers its gambling-addled user base a premium subscription tier with increased odds, that wallet is gone.People lob plenty of inspection allegations at the saps of the tech realmthose lured into recent memecoin rug-pulls by the Hawk Tuah Girl or the president, for instance, along with anyone who ever invested in NFTs. They use the meme to describe the U.S. government handing over untold billions to AI companies, based on the adorable belief that a Chinese company could never in a million years undercut themand they deploy it to shrug at everyone fooled by all the visual slop coming down the pike in the AI boom. And there was only one way to frame it when one of Xs lesser-known advertisers turned out to be, fittingly enough, a literal wallet inspection operation.All the wallet inspector talk seemed to hit a crescendo when X announced its digital wallet service; then, Musks team obtained access to the U.S. Treasury. The DOGE crew reportedly now has at their inexperienced fingertips data about Social Security numbers and banking information. They are effectively inspecting Americas walletand Americas top officials are just handing it over.The wallet inspector meme makes for a devastating way to describe anyone too trusting of plainly false assurances, the people making those assurances, and the Homer-like observers who dont quite seem to understand what is happening, much less mount any meaningful opposition. Its the rhetorical embodiment of a freefall era where so many people in positions of authority seem to be openly running scams, and the people meant to protect everyone else are either also running scams, or are getting scammed themselves.Its wallet inspectors all the way down.

T-Mobile has launched a wide-scale beta satellite-to-cell service using SpaceXs Starlink, aimed at extending service to remote areas or dead zones cell towers cant reach. The satellite messaging service will be free to use until July, even if you arent a T-Mobile customer (that means you, Verizon and AT&T users).Starlink,a satellite internet service that provides high-speed broadband internet to rural areas, is owned by SpaceX CEO and Trump adviser Elon Musk. The wireless carrier made the announcement Sunday with a big ad during the first quarter of the Super Bowl. While its free until July for all, after that, only T-Mobiles customers can add the plan for $15 a month; those with T-Mobiles premium Go5G Next plan will get it for no extra cost.T-Mobile Starlink uses satellites orbiting the Earth at over 200 miles an hour to deliver cell phone signals creating text messages to and from locations that traditional cell towers cant reach, known as dead zones. In the future, users will also be able to send images, use data, and make voice calls.Its a massive technical achievement and an absolute game changer for ALL wireless users, T-Mobile president and CEO Mike Sievert said in a statement. Were still in the early daysI dont want to overhype the experience during a beta testbut were officially putting no bars on notice. Dead zones, your days are numbered at the Un-carrier.How does Starlink satellite texting work?If you can see the sky, youre connected with T-Mobile. Its that simple, Mike Katz, T-Mobiles president of marketing, strategy, and products, told Fast Company.When a cell phone is out of cell tower range, the phone automatically connects to the T-Mobile Starlink. The technology works on most smartphones from the last four years, including iPhones and Samsung Galaxy phones, and most operating systemshowever, the iPhones latest operating software, iOS 18.3, did not add Starlink to the handset (it merely added SAT as an onscreen option instead of LTE or 5G, according to Forbes).T-Mobile Starlink also broadcasts Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEAs) nationwide to anyone in range of the signal and with a compatible devicewhich could be a game changer, enabling users to send and receive potentially life-saving messages in remote hiking areas or places impacted by severe weather and natural disasters.How do I sign up for Starlinks beta test?Sign up for the satellite service beta here.It is free for everyone, but spots are limited, according to T-Mobile. Once enrolled, you may have to wait a few days before you can send text messages.Can I also make Starlink satellite calls?No, currently the free beta service only supports text messages including SMS, RCS, and iMessageno satellite calls. Nor can you send your favorite video clips from last nights Super Bowl, where the T-Mobile Starlink ad first ran, as data is not yet available.

At a time when smartphone displays are getting sharper, brighter, and increasingly power-hungry, the Bigme Hibreak Pro takes a different approach. By integrating an E Ink Carta 1200 display into a 5G smartphone, Bigme has created a device that feels more like a Kindle than a traditional handset. While this may seem like a niche experiment, its a compelling proposition for users who value eye comfort, extended battery life, and a distraction-free mobile experience.Designer: BigmeA Display Designed for the Eyes, Not for SpeedThe 6.13-inch E Ink display at the heart of the Hibreak Pro is what sets it apart from the abundance of OLED and LCD screens. With a resolution of 824 x 1648 pixels at 300 PPI, text appears sharp and clear, ensuring an excellent reading experience. Unlike traditional smartphone screens, this display emits zero blue light, eliminating concerns about eye strain. For those who read in various lighting conditions, the 36-level warm and cold lighting adjustment provides a customizable viewing experience.However, this screen has limitations. E Ink technology isnt built for high-speed refresh rates, and even with optimizations that push it to 21 FPS, its still not ideal for scrolling-heavy applications, gaming, or smooth video playback. This isnt a device for binge-watching content or rapid social media interactions. Instead, it thrives in tasks where clarity and focus matterreading emails, browsing articles, or even drafting long-form content.Performance That Doesnt Slow DownDespite its e-paper display, the Hibreak Pro delivers impressive processing power. At its core, the MediaTek Dimensity 1080 processor runs at 2.4 GHz, though some sources suggest it could reach 2.6 GHz. This makes it one of the most powerful smartphones with an e-ink display, capable of handling demanding applications without noticeable lag.With 8GB of RAM and 256GB of storage, the Hibreak Pro provides ample memory and storage for multitasking, document handling, and productivity tools. Though it lacks expandable storage, its internal capacity should be sufficient for most users who rely on cloud-based services for additional space.Running on Android 14, the device is compatible with a wide range of apps available on the Google Play Store. While the E Ink screen introduces some limitations in terms of refresh rates and animations, the phone remains responsive for essential tasks like browsing, messaging, and managing daily workflows. This combination of hardware and software delivers a smooth user experience while optimizing battery efficiency.Designed for Connectivity, Not for EntertainmentThe Hibreak Pro supports dual-SIM 5G and Wi-Fi 6, ensuring seamless connectivity for calls, messaging, and browsing. Bluetooth 5.2 and NFC make wireless transactions and device pairing simple. The inclusion of USB-C keeps charging and data transfer convenient. However, the device isnt built for immersive media consumption. With a single mono speaker and no stereo sound, its not meant for high-fidelity audio experiences. Theres also debate about expandable storage, as some sources claim the presence of a microSD card slot while others deny it.One unexpected feature is an infrared port, which allows the phone to function as a universal remotean unusual but handy addition for users who control smart home devices or traditional appliances.Simplicity in Power, Design, and FunctionalityMost flagship smartphones struggle to last more than a day, but the 4500mAh battery in the Hibreak Pro benefits from E Inks ultra-low power consumption. Unlike OLED and LCD screens, which require constant power to maintain an image, E Ink only draws energy when refreshing. As a result, this phone can last for weeks on a single charge, making it a dream device for those who travel frequently or simply dont want to worry about battery life. When it does need to recharge, 18W fast charging ensures it wont be tethered to an outlet for long.The 20MP rear camera and 5MP front-facing camera cover basic photography needs, though the E Ink display limits real-time preview capabilities. Users might find the camera experience unconventional, but it remains functional for document scanning and video calls.TheHibreak Pros white plastic bodyexudes a minimalist charm, accentuated by a leather-like texture on the rear panel for improved grip. However, durability could be a concern since the screen lacks glass protection. The device is lightweight yet solid, catering to those who appreciate a simple, distraction-free interface. Side-mounted fingerprint authentication ensures security while maintaining a seamless look.Who Is This Phone For?The Bigme Hibreak Pro isnt designed for gamers, streamers, or users who prioritize high-refresh-rate screens. But its an intriguing alternative for writers, researchers, professionals, and avid readers who want a low-distraction smartphone. Unlike traditional e-readers, which often lack full smartphone functionality, this device provides access to Android apps, messaging, and web browsing while maintaining the benefits of E Ink.Students might find it useful for reading PDFs and textbooks without eye strain, while professionals can use it to review documents, check emails, or even take notes more focused. Its battery efficiency makes it ideal for those who prioritize longevity over high-end performance.This is a bold experiment that offers an entirely different approach to smartphone design. It prioritizes longevity, eye comfort, and focus over the fast-paced, visually immersive experience of mainstream smartphones. While it has clear trade-offssuch as limited refresh rates, a basic camera, and mono audioits strengths lie in extended battery life, distraction-free usability, and a high-resolution E Ink display that feels like reading on paper.At $439.99, its priced competitively for those who see value in an E Ink smartphone that breaks away from the industrys obsession with high refresh rates and ever-brighter screens. For those willing to embrace a slower, more thoughtful approach to smartphone use, the Hibreak Pro offers something truly unique.The post Bigme Hibreak Pros A Smartphone That Looks and Thinks Like an E-Reader first appeared on Yanko Design.

Are you plannoing to propose on Valentines Day? Its probably one of the most cliched things you can think of. But if youre thinking of popping the question anytime soon, then this season of love is probably one of the best times to get ideas on how to propose. Aside from just opening a ring box and giving flowers, some need to have a more creative way of getting your partner to say yes. And if youre into LEGO, then they have some suggestions on how you can do it. Designer: LEGOIf either you and your partner or both of you are huge fans of the LEGO brand, then its probably a given that your future proposal will have something to do with bricks and builds. If you dont have any idea yet on how to do it, then LEGO has got you. They released an Instagram reel showing off suggestions on how you can use their existing products to create a build to hide a ring and then surprise your partner at the fight moment. Lets just hope your partner didnt see that reel (or this article) or else it wont be such a surprise anymore. If youre into LEGO and space, then you can use the rocket ship build with a minifigure astronaut holding the ring inside the cockpit. If youre more into the traditional kind of proposal with flowers and chocolates, you can have flowers that can last forever, or at least until LEGOs last. The Bouquet of Roses set can be tweaked to hide a ring amidst the roses so that you can surprise them with a proposal while giving them a mix of florals that can last longer than actual flowers. LEGO also has a heart-shaped box where you can put in a wedding scene inside, perfect for placing a ring and popping the question. Although of course when they see the heart shaped LEGO, they already know somethings up. Probably the cutest (or scariest) of the bunch is the huge LEGO groom where you can hide the ring under his top hat. But again, when they see a groom, they probably know a proposal is coming. The Propose Like a LEGO Master reel is great if youre looking for ideas but it doesnt really have step-by-step build so youll have to rely on community threads for that if you dont really know how to make those.The post LEGO suggests how you can propose with special builds first appeared on Yanko Design.