Twitch reckons cheating while livestreaming is a "low severity" violationEnforcement changes mean even those with multiple infringements simply have to wait for violations to "drop off".Image credit: Twitch / Eurogamer News by Vikki Blake Contributor Published on Feb. 23, 2025 Twitch has updated its enforcement rules so that streamers caught violating its guidelines will be subjected to varying limited-time bans, with even indefinitely suspendees able to reapply for their accounts to be reinstatement after six months.This means even streamers with multiple infringements merely have to wait for the violations to "drop off [their] account". Providing you don't reoffend in a set period, your account will be reset to "good standing", as though the original violation never happened.To see this content please enable targeting cookies. Xbox Developer Direct - four promising games also coming to PlayStation.Watch on YouTubeHigher-severity violations - such as ones for hateful conduct - could remain on an account longer, such as a couple of years. But players caught cheating in games whilst streaming via Twitch are now deem "low severity" will only face a 24-hour suspension from the service."Starting today, most violations will expire and drop off of your account after a set amount of time," Twitch explained. "You will be able to track when they expire in the Appeals Portal, and this information will also be in the enforcement emails that you receive."Most violations committed tend to be low severity (such as cheating in online games) and will expire in 90 days. However, higher-severity violations (such as hateful conduct) will remain on an account longer, and will expire in 1 or 2 years."The most severe harms will still result in immediate indefinite suspensions. If you are indefinitely suspended due to accumulating multiple violations within a short time period, you are able to apply for reinstatement after 6 months."Twitch believes "escalating consequences" will "hold users accountable for repeated harmful behaviour", defining harm as "including actions that lead to physical, emotional, social, or financial damage to a community member, to Twitch, or to society".If your account was previously indefinitely suspended it will remain so despite these changes, Twitch stressed, although in those instances, users can apply for reinstatement (thanks, Insider Gaming).In November, just ahead of the US elections, Twitch tightened its rules around broadcasts that include debates about "political" and "sensitive social issues". However, after a vocal backlash, Twitch clarified that labels would not apply if a streamer is discussing their "lived experience", or if discussion of these topics isn't the "focus" of the stream.

A man who has been released from prison after 30 years for a crime he says he never committed has been readjusting to life - and getting used to just how connected people are now. Gordon Cordeiro was jailed in 1994 over the murder of Timothy Blaisdell on the island of Maui, but due to new DNA evidence his conviction was overturned on Friday.Speaking about his first impression of the outside world following his release from Maui Community Correctional Center, Mr Cordeiro, who has always maintained his innocence, said he has been trying to get used to how connected people are."Everybody is looking at their phones," he said, during his first Zoom interview since leaving prison.Mr Cordeiro also commented on the new DNA evidence which led to his release, telling the Associated Press news agency: "Thank God for new DNA. Technology is awesome."The first thing he did after he was freed was visit his mother's grave as he said he had constantly thought about her during his time behind bars.Mr Cordeiro's mother, Paulette, died aged 49 in September 1994 from ALS, often called Lou Gehrig's disease. Her son was arrested the following month."Thanks for looking over me. Keeping me safe," Mr Cordeiro recalled saying at her grave.In a picture provided by his sister, he can be seen kneeling graveside, with a garland of flowers he was given upon release draped over the headstone. Speaking more about what he had got up to since regaining his freedom, Mr Cordeiro said he went for a steak dinner and celebrated with family at his father's house.The next day, he visited more relatives' graves and planned to go to Costco."It feels normal," he said, but added Maui had changed as he pointed to the destruction caused in Lahaina by a wildfire in 2023. Get Sky News on WhatsAppFollow our channel and never miss an updateTap here to followAnnouncing her decision to free him, Judge Kirstin Hamman ruled new evidence, including DNA test results, would likely change the outcome of another trial.Maui County Prosecuting Attorney Andrew Martin said he plans to appeal against the decision and seek to have bail imposed on Mr Cordeiro's release.Mr Cordeiro's first trial ended in a hung jury, with only one juror voting to convict him.But he was later found guilty of murder, robbery and attempted murder and sentenced to life without the possibility of parole.

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) is wasting workers time and taxpayer dollars on a witch hunt to find any content deemed bad, according to a source familiar with the work and internal communications viewed by 404 Media. Specifically, people who work on HHS websites are spending days scanning those sites and any documents they share in search of a list terms like gay, sexuality, non-binary, inclusion, queer, and gender, potentially so they could be later removed to comply with Trumps executive orders attacking diversity, equity, and inclusion in the federal government.The most obvious issue to me about this list is that its being done in the name of efficiency and saving money. It is not efficient to take engineers off their work to scan old content for any keywords this new administration hates. The bigotry is astounding, the source who is familiar with the work and who asked to be anonymous because they were not permitted to speak to the press, told me. If they were being true to the concept, sure, they could say that moving forward, we will no longer support creation of new data about these topics. But to go backward decades, scrubbing for stuff they hate, thats not a savings of time and money, thats a huge expenditure. It's hypocritical on top of it all.Do you know anything else about DOGE and how Trump's executive orders are impacting HHS or other agencies? I would love to hear from you. Using a non-work device, you can message me securely on Signal at emanuel.404. Otherwise, send me an email at emanuel@404media.co.The source said that part of what makes the work so time consuming is that the current HHS administration doesnt just want to know about every page on its sites that include these terms, but also pages that link out to .PDF files that include those terms. For example, last week we reported that the Trump administration added a note rejecting gender ideology on a Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administrations website page that shared a .PDF of a study about substance abuse among gay, lesbian, bisexual, or other nonheterosexual adolescents. According to the source, HHS administrators want that page added to a spreadsheet of pages and documents that include the terms it's looking for because of the content of the study.Since HHS websites share thousands of .PDFs, the source said, very expensive engineers spent multiple days scanning the files for the list of terms instead of doing their regular tasks.Other terms on the list include they/them pronouns, pregnant people, Biden, and intersex, according to a copy of the list seen by 404 Media.The fact that the government is wasting resources finding every instance of a term it finds objectionable directly contradicts Trumps and Musks stated goal of government efficiency. Finding these terms in thousands of studies and papers and potentially removing them is not saving any taxpayer dollars, but just purging government sites with a perspective it disagrees with. Other agencies have also scrambled to find similar terms. Axios reported that DOGE representatives at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration are searching for DEI content and Stat News has reported that a number of federal health agencies are searching grants for taboo words like trans and diversity.The spitefulness is such a waste of time and money. It's infuriating, the source said. Sure, they might argue not to do anything inclusive or helpful in the future, but to burn so much time and money trying to scrub out any content he [Trump] hates from past decades is ... I'm kinda at a loss for words.At the moment, it appears that HHS is not removing pages that contain the terms its looking for because a federal judge ordered it and other agencies to restore several webpages they removed as a result of Trumps executive order. The court ordered the administration to restore the webpages to their versions as of January 30, 2025, meaning they were supposed to revert the webpages to what they looked like on January 30 with no changes. The versions that have been restored now have this additional disclaimer about gender ideology we reported on last week.Emanuel Maiberg is interested in little known communities and processes that shape technology, troublemakers, and petty beefs. Email him at emanuel@404media.coMore from Emanuel Maiberg

There is such a topic on the official site of Unity. It describes the method of 6-point lighting. I downloaded ready-made maps and can set it all up in Unity, now my task is to independently make a blast in Embergen and bake 2 flipbook textures. In the topic from the Unity site there is a picture showing the render node and 6-point lighting in it. How is this implemented? Maybe someone has encountered this, set up export and cameras?UnityRealistic smoke lighting with 6-way lighting in VFX GraphWith the 2022.2 Tech Stream, Unity has introduced an end-to-end workflow that allows realistic real-time rendering of smoke from baked simulations and scales on all platforms.In this blog, get a breakdown of the corresponding new tools and...

Allison Murray/ZDNETZDNET's key takeawaysWindscribe has a free version, but the premium app starts at $3 per month and offers advanced features and better performance.The free and paid versions work with streaming platforms, and you can safely use the service for online activities, including web surfing and torrenting.Windscribe's no-logs policy hasn't been audited, and having the headquarters in Canada isn't good for privacy.Windscribe is much more flexible than other VPNs. It's both free and paid and is the second best free VPN that we recommend. The "Build-a-Plan" scheme allows you to tailor the amount you wish to pay for a subscription, starting from $3 per month. Windscribe is reliable for accessing geo-restricted sites online and is optimized to work on networks that block VPNs.Plus, Windscribe requires minimal information to use Windscribe (you can subscribe without an email). While the speeds aren't as impressive as our best VPNs, I still used it smoothly for heavy browsing activities. The free servers can support streaming, but I made even more interesting findings. details View at Windscribe What can you do with Windscribe free?The free version of Windscribe has several useful features. You can use it even without signing up for an account, you will be limited to only 2GB per month. The other benefits that come with the free app are:10GB monthly bandwidth (if you sign up and verify your email).Servers in 10 countries, namely the US, UK, Canada, France, Netherlands, Germany, Switzerland, Norway, Romania and Hong KongUnlimited device connectionsStrong encryption, kill switch, ad/malware/domain blocker and no-loggingThe advantages of Windscribe over Proton VPN free, which is our best free VPN selection, are that you get relatively more server locations and can connect several devices. However, Proton VPN offers unlimited bandwidth and has better privacy measures.Windscribe's advanced features: Is it safe?ProtectionBrowsing the Windscribe app, I was taken aback by the new security features introduced since the last time I tested it. Notably, the built-in ad, malware, and tracker blocker tool Robert now includes more options, like blocking social media, gambling and adult sites. It can be a useful parental control feature on your home computer that your kids use to access the internet. You can even block-list specific websites simply by entering the domain or IP address. Screenshot by Kennedy Otieno/ZDNETWindscribe provides good protection online and on any Wi-Fi networks you may be randomly connecting to while accessing the internet. The AES 256-bit GCM cipher encrypts every data moving to and from your protected devices, turning it into gibberish characters. This deters websites, Wi-Fi admins and potential hackers from intercepting or reading your sensitive information. The information is secured with safe keys, and only authorized recipients can decrypt it with the right keys.There are six secure tunneling protocols provided; WireGuard, OpenVPN TCP/ UDP, IKEv2, Stealth and WSTunnel. That means more options to try out, especially when having connection problems with one of your preferred choices. When it comes to protocols, WireGuard and OpenVPN often get the most attention across the board due to their efficiency and security, while IKEv2 is most popular for mobile use. The extra protocols, Stealth and WSTunnel, are recommended for sites and strict networks that block VPNs (including internet censorship in places like China and Russia). Screenshot by Kennedy Otieno/ZDNETI didn't find any evidence that Windscribe leaks IP or DNS information, despite doing multiple tests. This should boost confidence, knowing that your IP address and locations remain well masked, even when using the free app. Windscribe's cutting-edge features include IPv6, DNS and WebRTC leak protection. You should always enable the Firewall (kill switch) to prevent exposure of your IP address in case that the VPN connection fails. Screenshot by Kennedy Otieno/ZDNETWindscribe is the only VPN I've come across that has a MAC spoofing tool. It hides your device's MAC address -- a unique number that networks use to identify devices connected. By concealing your MAC address, websites and networks can't log your activities by using these identifiers. You can refresh or set MAC auto-rotation so that the address periodically changes, ensuring you remain untraceable. Screenshot by Kennedy Otieno/ZDNETWIndscribe also includes port forwarding, allowing you to set up a secure remote and secure connection point for all devices in your local area network. Its split tunneling also gives you the option to select websites and apps that you want to route on the VPN.Despite all these measures in place, Windscribe's privacy is questionable. The Ukrainian government raided two of its local servers, and, unfortunately, they weren't encrypted, allowing the authorities to monitor users' activities. The company claims that only these two were not unencrypted, but that already reveals a lot. Following this incident, the provider has since switched to RAM-only servers, which offer better privacy. These servers automatically reboot and wipe clean any information that's retained.Also, Windscribe's no-logs policy hasn't been audited. That means its claims that it doesn't collect or store user information are yet to be verified as true. The jurisdiction in Canada isn't privacy-friendly as the country has invasive retention laws and is part of the 5/14 Eyes Alliances (nations that share intelligence and their citizens' data). All that being said, we're yet to see how Windscribe fairs in a real-life scenario when courts or authorities ask them to hand over a user's information.Windscribe servers, connection speeds and streaming experienceWith servers in 69 countries and 134 cities, Windscribe isn't as expansive as the best VPN services, which typically have servers in 100 countries or more. What Windscribe does differently, however, is that all its servers are physically present in the locations where they offer IPs (except Antarctica). Most VPNs use virtual servers in locations where they can't or don't want to set up physical data centers, and this counts toward the overall server tally.Notably, the servers are mostly in North and South America and Asian-Pacific countries. The US is sorted into East, Central and West regions to help you find specific locations more easily. Some of the servers are optimized for speeds of up to 10Gbps, meaning you can use them with lightning-fast internet and get speeds close to your baseline internet connections. Screenshot by Kennedy Otieno/ZDNETWhile scrolling through the server list, you can see latency in each location, which is helpful when picking fast servers anywhere. You can sort the servers alphabetically, geographically or based on latency in the "Location Order" section under the general settings. I also like the names given to the fun names given to servers in certain locations, for example, Sydney (Squidney), Vancouver (Vansterdam), New York (Insomnia) and so forth. Screenshot by Kennedy Otieno/ZDNETSpeedsMy internet speeds dipped slightly, although this shouldn't discourage you because it happens with most VPNs. Windscribe is generally fast, but how fast will mostly depend on a number of factors, like whether you're using the free servers or if it's during peak times. The servers are relatively few, probably less than a thousand, so occasionally, there might be congestion due to high traffic.I followed our VPN guidelines and testing methodology, recording average download speeds and the retention rate on server locations that I chose randomly. I used the default WireGuard protocol that the app recommended for me. It's one of the best-performing protocols, offering an optimal balance between speed and security. Below is a summary of how Windscribe retained speeds, starting from 125Mbps baseline download speeds (without VPN).Server location testedAverage download speed (with Windscribe)Speed retention (higher is better)South Africa (local)117Mbps93.6%United States102Mbps81.6%Canada109Mbps87.2%United Kingdom98Mbps78.4%Greece85Mbps68%Malaysia82Mbps65.6%Singapore90Mbps72%Brazil104Mbps83.2%Argentina90Mbps72%These results should give you only a rough picture of how fast Windscribe servers are, meaning your tests may yield slightly different outcomes. What's evident, however, is that servers in my location (South Africa) gave better connections. The thumb rule with VPNs is that you should connect to a local server (or the nearest location) to get the fastest speeds.StreamingI accessed streaming platforms with both Windscribe free and paid versions. It worked with Netflix US and UK libraries without problems. Streaming-optimized servers called Windflix are available to pro subscribers, making it more convenient to stream your favorite content online.After having my success with Netflix, I ventured into other sites. Again, I was impressed because the VPN accessed Hulu, Disney Plus, ESPN Plus, BBC iPlayer, Amazon Prime Video and Australian platforms like 9Now. So why pay if the free app works? As I mentioned earlier, the 10GB monthly data bandwidth doesn't support intensive streaming, so you can watch only a few movies. Also, the speed limitations with the free service imply you might encounter serious buffering issues.TorrentingYou can torrent with Windscribe, but some server locations (including some US states, India, South Africa and Russia) are blocked from torrenting. Aside from the VPN being secure, features like port forwarding support easy integration with torrent clients. The website has information on good practices to observe while using Windscribe for safe peer-to-peer torrenting. However, the slow download speeds can be disappointing, in which case I'd advise checking our top VPN selections for torrenting.Windscribe apps (some minor issues with using the VPN)Windscribe is compatible with major devices. It recently announced an Apple TV app, opting not to be left behind (many services are only starting to offer this app). However, Windscribe doesn't have a router app -- an area where ExpressVPN does a better job than most. You can still use Windscribe's Config Generator feature, which allows you to set up the VPN manually on routers with WireGuard, OpenVPN and IKEv2 client support. Proxy Gateway also makes it possible to spoof your location on devices that don't support native VPN installation, like consoles.Windscribe provides native apps for these devices;Mac, Windows, LinuxAndroid, iOSAndroid TV, Amazon Fire TV, Apple TVChrome, Firefox, Microsoft EdgeThe Windows app I installed looked minimalistic (I realized the interface looks the same even on Mac). It occupied only a small section of the screen, making it a bit hard to access the servers or settings. To open the server list, click the down arrow next to "Locations," while settings can be accessed from the hamburger icon at the top left (three horizontal lines). Screenshot by Kennedy Otieno/ZDNETI think first-time VPN users might wonder what to do with the many features cluttering the app. My advice is that you shouldn't tinker with any settings you don't understand. Leave the app as it is and it should just work fine with the default.The installing procedure for Windscribe is very straightforward. If you experience any problems with the service, you can ask Garry (the standby robot assistant) or submit a ticket to support and the in-house team will respond within 24 hours. Even free users can use the support feature.Windscribe Pro: How much does it cost?Windscribe Pro unlocks more features (including access to all the server locations) at fairly affordable rates. It's also possible to pay only for specific server locations, thanks to the Build-a-Plan option. Here is a quick look at the plan:PlanPriceFreeFreeOne month$9/monthOne year$69 ($5.75/month)Build-a-PlanFrom $1/monthWhile the Build-a-Plan model seems attractive, I wouldn't recommend it because you will still have to purchase other features separately as add-ons. The plan is not only limiting, but you might also end up paying more than with a normal subscription. You're also required to spend a minimum of $3 per month. However, you can change the server locations you've selected under the plan at any time without paying extra. The supported payment methods include credit/debit cards, PayPal, mobile wallets (Google and Apple Pay), cryptocurrencies and some local payments.Windscribe also has a money-back guarantee policy. You can get a refund within seven days of purchasing the service, or if you've not used more than 10GB of data bandwidth after starting your subscription. Be sure to cancel your subscription on the website or store before asking for a refund (also to avoid auto-renewals in the future).Windscribe is not connecting -- what should I do?Several factors can result in Windscribe connection failure. First, ensure it's not your internet connection causing problems. The servers you're using might also be experiencing traffic issues (especially on free servers), so try different locations to see if you're able to connect. You can also change protocol and port settings in case the network you're using is restrictive or doesn't support certain features.Restarting or updating/reinstalling the app can remove bugs preventing proper functioning. It's also possible that some security programs, like an antivirus or firewall might have blocked Windscribe, so check if this is the case and allow permissions. If Windscribe issues persist, you can send an email to support or ask the chatbot Garry for assistance.Can I be tracked if I use Windscribe?The question of getting tracked will mostly depend on how proactive you are at protecting yourself. Windscribe offers extra built-in secure tools to hide your identity, like Firewall (kill switch), IPv6 protection, Robert and Mac spoofing. Windscribe also doesn't collect or store sensitive information, which eliminates the chances of being tracked. If you want to remain anonymous, ensure all the safety settings are always turned on and only access the internet while connected to the VPN.How can I get more Windscribe data for free?Windscribe offers new users 2GB monthly, but you can increase this to 10GB by signing up and confirming your email. Additionally, posting about the service on X/Twitter gives you an extra 5GB free, and Windscribe has a referral program with more rewards (including free access to pro features). If you want to remove the data restrictions permanently, you can upgrade to the premium version.Does Windscribe unblock Netflix in all regions?Windscribe works with Netflix but may not access content in all locations. Netflix's firewalls are becoming more advanced at filtering VPN traffic, so you may be blocked while trying to stream content in certain regions. Still, Windscribe does a great job at bypassing geo-restrictions, including with the free servers. Extra features like Stealth and WStunnel protocols help to hide your VPN usage and avoid getting blocked on strict sites like Netflix.ZDNET's buying adviceWindscribe delivers splendid service, whether you want to use the free or paid tier. It's surprisingly effective with content geo-restrictions while also providing robust protection online. Also, the cost isn't prohibitive for those who want access to elite features and better performance, but speeds still aren't on par with the fastest VPNs, likeNordVPN. Ideally, you can use this service if you're in between using a VPN for free and getting a subscription. That way, you can easily switch plans without losing access to your essential online services.Featured reviews

Apple is expected to launch a new design with the upcoming iPhone 17 family. Now, a look at the iPhone 17 Pro Max and a series of third-party cases illustrate the impact of the changes through a closer look at the main camera.The iPhone 17 Pro Max DesignDetails on how a new range of cases could look on the presumptively-named iPhone 17 Pro Max have been published by noted Apple commentator Sonny Dickson. Previously, Dickson brought details of the iPhone 16 screen sizes, images of the new Camera Control button appearing on all four iPhone 16 models, and final samples of the iPhone 16e.Assuming these designs are plausibly close to the final product, they inform us of several decisions by Tim Cook and his team for the next iPhone.iPhone 17 Pro Max case renders.Sonny Dickson (X)Accompanied by renders of the iPhone 17 Pro Max, the cases show a significant increase in the camera island on the rear of the phone and a second island for the flash and sensors.The same three-lens arrangement as the current iPhone 16 Pro Max models can be seen. With the recently launched iPhone 16e sporting a "two-in-one" single-lens design, Apple could offer one or more of these lenses with similar functionality. That may demand a few more millimeters in the camera hardware, which requires a new design similar to the one we see here.The three key sensors for the rear camera _ the flash for low-light photography, the microphone for video recording and the LIDAR sensor gather depth information _ now reside in their own space.The iPhone 17 Pro Max Camera BarThis essentially creates a camera bar across the rear of the handset. It's a particularly wide camera bar compared to that seen on many of Google's Pixel smartphones, but its presence has been accepted in the community after several leaks and discussions.The camera bar is also expected to appear on the iPhone 17 Air, Apple's ultrathin design set to replace the iPhone Plus brand. In that case, the camera bar will be significantly narrower with just a single lens. The vanilla iPhone 17 is not expected to move to this arrangement and may be closer to the iPhone 16e's staid design.Pixel 9 Pro Fold and the camera islandEwan SpenceThe iPhone 17 Pro Max's Focus On PhotographyThe finalised design of the iPhone 17 Pro Max may not fit these case renders precisely, but the renders illustrate the various discussions around a refreshed design for the upcoming iPhone. Apple has always leaned heavily into the imaging capabilities of its smartphones. It makes sense that it would emphasise the camera for the 17 Pro Max as part of a redesign of the iPhone style.The iPhone 16e hints at new lens technology. The design discussions point to a reworking of the camera island to offer more space for new hardware. And while the Apple Intelligence feature set may not match the wide range of Google's Gemini AI, it provides several AI-powered additions for imaging.Whatever the final iPhone design looks like, we can already see that taking pictures will be a big deal come the expected launch in September.Now read the latest iPhone 17 Pro Max, MacBook and iOS headlines in Forbes' weekly Apple news digest...

Sir Richard Branson was just one of the entrepreneurs sharing their journey at Techarena 2025.Photo by Adrian Pehrson - Techarena 2025The Nordics might not be the first region that comes to mind when thinking about global leaders in innovation, but the region has a strong tradition of punching above its weight, particularly in tech and sustainability. From green energy breakthroughs to cutting-edge deeptech solutions, the Nordics have consistently demonstrated an ability to innovate and scale. This past week, Swedens Techarena conference showcased the regions vibrant startup ecosystem. Alongside Slush in Finland and TechBBQ in Denmark, Techarena stands as one of the Nordics premier events, bringing together founders, investors, and family offices to shape the future of innovation.Over the years, the region has been producing a number of globally impactful companies. Take Spotify (Sweden, $50 billion valuation),which revolutionized the music industry, or Supercell (Finland, $10 billion valuation), the mobile gaming giant behind Clash of Clans. Then theres Oatly (Sweden, $10 billion IPO valuation), which popularized oat milk worldwide, and Unity Technologies (Denmark, $13.6 billion valuation), whose game engine powers some of the worlds most popular games. These success stories highlight the Nordics ability to innovate across industries and scale globally.Behind many of the success stories lies a growing force: family offices. As they step into the venture capital spotlight, questions arise. Are they ready to play the game? And what does their growing involvement mean for the future of Nordic innovation?Why Do Investors Attend Techarena?Techarena, like its Nordic counterparts, is a hub for ideas, opportunities, and connections. For family offices, its a critical platform to stay ahead. As Omid Ekhlasi, Founder and CEO of Techarena, explains, Many family offices attend to learn about macro trends, investment strategies, and FO-ready opportunities while building connections with fund managers.For many attendees, the primary draw is the chance to hear whats new. What are people investing in? What tools and operational strategies are gaining traction? These questions are top of mind for investors looking to stay competitive in a rapidly evolving market. Beyond trends, the event is also about finding opportunitieswhether thats sourcing new deals, building networks, or showcasing portfolio companies to attract additional capital.In the Nordics, where collaboration and values alignment are deeply ingrained in the culture, events like Techarena play a crucial role in fostering a sense of community. The promise of a vibrant ecosystem is not just a lofty ideal; its a tangible goal that drives the participation and engagement needed to make venture capital work.The Role of Family Offices in Venture CapitalVenture capital is a complex game, with different routes to market and varying strategies for success. Investors often fall into one of two camps: those who invest through funds and those who prefer direct investments. Each approach has its merits, and the choice often depends on the investors expertise, resources, and risk appetite.For family offices, the venture capital landscape can be particularly challenging. While some FOs have the experience and infrastructure to operate like traditional VC funds, many are still learning the ropes. As Angela de Giacomo, a family officer and author of The Venture Capital Playbook, noted when interviewed on stage, Venture investing is not just about writing checks. Its about bringing value to the tablewhether thats through networks, know-how, or strategic support.This sentiment was echoed throughout the discussions at Techarena. Family offices often view venture investing as an extension of their own entrepreneurial ventures. While this mindset can bring fresh perspectives and unique opportunities, it can also lead to missteps if FOs underestimate the complexities of the venture game.Jonathan Hollis, Managing Partner at Mountside Ventures, at one of the side events emphasized the critical role family offices play in the European venture ecosystem. As the largest investors into VC funds, family offices play a critical role in supporting European venture. Without them, it would be hard to imagine the state of play of the European venture landscape, he says.When Networks Really Become Net WorthOne of the key takeaways from Techarena is the importance of building strong networks and ecosystems. In the Nordics, where collaboration is a core value, the strength of the ecosystem often determines the success of individual ventures. Family offices, with their extensive networks and resources, are uniquely positioned to contribute to this ecosystem.For example, a family office with a diverse portfolio of businesses can provide strategic value to a startup by facilitating partnerships or offering access to industry expertise. This additionality is a key differentiator for FOs looking to stand out in a crowded market.However, not all family offices are equipped to provide this level of support. So much of what funds bring to ventures involves their network, know-how, being a brand-name investor, and supporting with filling gaps around knowledge, talent, or more. When it comes to family offices, some could in theory provide the same as a proper VC fund, but more often, this is not in their wheelhouse.This gap presents both a challenge and an opportunity. For family offices willing to invest in building their venture capabilities, the rewards can be significant. By aligning their investments with their core strengths and values, FOs can create a win-win scenario for themselves and the startups they support.The Big Vision for Nordic VentureThe Nordic region is at a pivotal moment in its innovation journey. With sectors like greentech, defense tech, and deeptech leading the charge, the region is well-positioned to address some of the worlds most pressing challenges. But to maintain this momentum, sustained long-term capital is essential.As Omid Ekhlasi puts it, The Nordic region, and in particular Sweden, is a hub of innovation that offers solutions addressing some of the worlds most pressing challenges. To maintain our strong position and continue advancing in these fields, sustained long-term capital is essential. Family offices play a vital role by funding and supporting these innovations going forward.This vision requires more than just financial investment; it demands a commitment to building a robust and inclusive ecosystem. Family offices, with their long-term horizons and patient capital, are uniquely suited to support this vision. By leveraging their networks, expertise, and resources, FOs can help drive the next wave of Nordic innovation.Venturing ForwardThe growing involvement of family offices in venture capital is a trend that shows no signs of slowing down. As the discussions at Techarena highlighted, FOs bring a unique perspective and set of resources to the table. However, to fully realize their potential, family offices must invest in building their venture capabilities and aligning their strategies with the needs of the ecosystem.With its strong values-alignment and collaborative spirit, the Nordic region provides an ideal environment for this evolution. By fostering strong networks, embracing additionality, and supporting long-term innovation, family offices can play a pivotal role in shaping the future of Nordic venture.As the venture landscape continues to evolve, one thing is clear: the Nordics are leading the charge, and family offices are poised to be key players in this exciting journey.

TL;DR: Morse Micro has introduced the MM-HL1-EXT, a Wi-Fi HaLow router that promises to advance long-range, low-power communication. This device, part of the HaLowLink 1 series, uses the IEEE 802.11ah Wi-Fi HaLow standard to achieve connectivity ranges of up to 10 miles in rural areas and 1.86 miles in urban environments. The MM-HL1-EXT sets itself apart from conventional Wi-Fi routers by operating in the 900MHz band in the U.S. while also supporting 2.4GHz Wi-Fi 4 (802.11n). This dual-band capability allows the router to function as a standalone access point or an extender, improving connectivity in hard-to-reach areas.At the heart of the HaLowLink 1 is the MediaTek MT7621A dual-core CPU, complemented by 256MB of DRAM and 32MB of NAND flash storage. The radio module features Morse Micro's MM6108 chipset alongside AzureWave AW-HM593, delivering a transmission power of up to 23 dBm for stable, long-range performance.The router's connectivity options are equally impressive, with two Gigabit Ethernet ports and support for Ethernet-over-USB. Power and data transmission over Ethernet are facilitated through a USB-C port. Running on the open-source and customizable OpenWrt 23.05 networking platform, the HaLowLink 1 supports online firmware updates, making it adaptable to future needs.While the HaLowLink 1's Wi-Fi HaLow speeds max out at 32Mbps using an 8MHz bandwidth, its Wi-Fi 4 capability supports speeds of up to 300Mbps at 40MHz bandwidth. This versatility makes it suitable for a wide range of IoT and industrial applications.In harsh industrial settings, two HaLowLink 1 units can be deployed as a wireless alternative to outdoor and remote installations, effectively replacing Ethernet cabling. // Related StoriesThe MM-HL1-EXT has already received certifications for use in North America (FCC), Canada (IC), and Australia (RCM), with Morse Micro actively working to secure certifications for EMEA (868MHz) and Asia.The MM-HL1-EXT is now available on Mouser for approximately $99. Stock is currently limited, but more units are expected to be available by April 14, 2025. Larger bulk orders have an estimated factory lead time of eight weeks.Morse Micro's journey in developing Wi-Fi HaLow technology spans nearly a decade. The company demonstrated router hardware capable of providing 2-mile coverage for months while running on coin batteries in tests conducted in February 2024. By September, that range had increased to 10 miles. At CES 2025 in January, Morse Micro showcased Wi-Fi routers capable of delivering 250Mbps over a 10-mile radius.

Table of ContentsTable of ContentsThis is some serious firepowerPrepare thy wallet, Galaxy warriorSamsung will officially make a return to the realm of ultra-slim phones in the coming months with the Galaxy S25 Edge. So far, the company has only given us a distant glimpse of the upcoming phone, but has remained mum on its innards or market arrival timeline.Well, an apparently working unit of the Galaxy S25 Edge briefly appeared in a leaked video this week, parading its svelte profile from all sides. In the short clip, the phone is compared against the Galaxy Z Fold 6, and we also get a look at its supposed innards via the AIDA64 app running on the phone.Recommended VideosThis is the first time we are seeing the phone in flesh, and in a functional form. It looks stunning, a fitting return for the Edge phones that once established Samsungs superiority as the maker of bold and stylish devices. Remember the beauty that was the Galaxy S6 Edge?RelatedNow, ever since Samsung put a demo unit up for showcase at its Unpacked event earlier this year, I have been fairly skeptical. What kind of sacrifices Samsung has made to achieve such a thin profile? Will it be competitive enough to slot within the mainline Galaxy S25 series?Well, it seems like the Galaxy S25 Edge will be a high-end phone, in the same vein as the iPhone 16. By that, I mean pairing a flagship silicon with a dual-camera setup. In the now-deleted video, we see the mention of Adreno 830, which is the graphics engine Qualcomm serves with its top-of-the-line Snapdragon 8 Elite silicon.Alexis Garza / YouTubeThis is the same silicon that powers the entire Galaxy S25 line, and a whole bunch of other Android flagships such as the OnePlus 13, iQoo 13, and the Red Magic 10 Pro. The video also shows 12GB of RAM and 256GB of onboard storage inside in the upcoming phone, which is again at par with the Galaxy S25.I had some doubts that Samsung would fit a low-end processor inside the Galaxy S25 Edge so that it doesnt deplete the small battery and cause any heat management hassles. But it seems Samsung has managed to address both the concerns.If the leaked video is anything to go by, the slim phone will come equipped with a 4,000 mAh battery, matching the Galaxy S25. Ive had a fairly good experience with the Galaxy S25 so far, easily going a full-day without having to charge the phone despite its relatively small battery. I expect the Galaxy S25 Edge wont fare any different.The biggest difference would be the imaging hardware. Unlike the regular Galaxy S25 and its Plus variant (which comes equipped with three cameras), the Edge trim will only pack two cameras.As per the latest leak, we are looking at a primary sensor that captures images at 12-megapixel resolution. That may not be the actual camera sensor resolution, because the AIDA 64 app shows the default image resolution clicked in pixel-binned format, and not the actual sensor details.A 50-megapixel, or even a 48-megapixel sensor, takes pictures at a 12-megapixel resolution using 4-in-1 pixel-binning tech. In a nutshell, theres a chance that Samsung fits a a 12-megapixel primary camera on the Galaxy S25 Edge, but it could very well turn out to be a 50-megapixel sensor, as well, just like the regular Galaxy S25.The Galaxy S25 Edge is shaping up to be a mainline Android flagship phone by 2025 standards. And thats both good and bad news. If youve yearned for a thin phone that doesnt cut any serious corners when it comes to performance or other crucial aspects like camera or battery, this is the best that Android will offer in 2025.On the flip side, it is likely going to be pretty expensive. And not just because the innards more or less match the mainline Galaxy S25 and the engineering labor that went into making it. It seems the build materials are even more premium than the regular Galaxy S25.Alexis Garza / YouTubeThe Korean electronics giant is reportedly eyeing some form of ceramic glass material for the Galaxy S25 Edges rear shell. Taking into account everything that leaks have served so far, the Galaxy S25 Edge might be priced at $800 by the safest estimates, or higher.There is definitely some historical precedent for that. In 2015, Samsung launched the Galaxy A8, its slimmest smartphone so far. That phone didnt offer any flagship chops in the same league as the Galaxy S or Galaxy Note series phones back then, but still commanded a price tag close to $500.Now that Samsungs mainline Android flagship starts at $800 and touch the $1,300 base sticker tag for the Ultra model, the near-match that is the Galaxy S25 Edge will most likely exceed the entry point. Just how far Samsung goes with its innovation tax remains to be seen. As for me, well, I am not keeping my hopes high for any pleasant surprise.Editors Recommendations

In an era in which everything is getting revived or rebooted, its perhaps no surprise that Parks and RecreationThe show, which wrapped up its run in 2015, flashed forward to 2025 in its final episode. Wait, were we in 2025 in the end? Thats so crazy, Jones said in speaking withGold Derby. Mike Schur, who co-created the series with Greg Daniels, would ultimately be the person deciding whether the show should come back.Recommended VideosOh man, I hope sometime soon, Jones said of a potential revival. I know Mike Schur was like, There has to be a reason for us to do it. We cant just do it. But I would love that.Please enable Javascript to view this contentThe shows final episode hopped through time, visiting the shows core cast in 2017, 2019, 2022, 2023, 2025, 2035 and 2048, which does make the potential of revisiting the world of the show a little trickier.Schur, though, has said in the past that he might be open to returning to the series if the right idea presented itself.I felt the show had an argument to make, and the argument was about teamwork and friendship. I dont feel like we left anything on the table. I would never ever say never. The chance to do it again, should it arise, would be incredible, but we would only do it if we all felt like there was something compelling us to do it, Schur told Variety. If one single person said no, we wouldnt do it.The cast did reunite in 2020 for a virtual special during COVID, but no formal revival has been announced yet.Editors Recommendations