Walking between the oaks, sequoias, and flowering magnolias in Berkeley, California, where Sidell Pakravan Architects is based, is a reminder of the citys heritage within Bay Regional design: Homes and civic buildings by Bernard Maybeck, Julia Morgan, Christopher Alexander, William Wurster, and Daniel Liebermann, among others, create a local vernacular and support a distinctive lifestyle. Given the rising cost of construction, the need to densify, and the predominance of functionalif not purely economiccriteria for what gets built, it seems almost nostalgic or hoity-toity to expect the sensibilities of the past to persist. And yet if we want architecture to embody a view of life as a reality formed from intersections between economic, societal, and material complexities and constraints, then its imperative to recognize that these areas of overlap are what give rise to good buildings, Kristen Sidell, founding principal of Sidell Pakravan, told AN on a recent visit to the firms office, which numbers eight people. As cities grapple with peoples aversion to change on the one hand and state-mandated, often out-of-scale growth on the other, finding a middle ground will require us to reexamine our models, added Rudabeh Pakravan, her business partner.Sidell and Pakravan met in graduate school at the University of Pennsylvania at a time when parametric design was popular, before starting their practice in 2014. Despite this digital frenzy, physical models have remained the basis of their work. They both see architecture as a material engagement with the world around us, an encounter that focuses on the intersection of form and emotion, the made object and the lived experience, and the ability of architecture to shape that experience, Sidell explained. Behind the blue entry doors of their West Berkeley office, one encounters an abundance of foamcore models; these explore variations in volume, orientation, and openings. By centering their design process on models and architectures physicality, they can take an idea and push it against different constraints to get unanticipated outcomes. Those threads of investigation then inform how to proceed with the design. For us, its about pondering the physical plan and getting to know the client, then projecting the different pathways, Pakravan said.At every scale, our works formal simplicity serves the complexity of peoples spatial experiences, Sidell observed. We believe in the physicality of architecture as an act of social engagement. The spatial relationships that emerge from the models we make are spaces for people to enjoy their lives and interact.In mediating between reality and ideas, models allow for speculation and the unexpected, said Pakravan, who also teaches at UC Berkeley. Sidell added that these surprises help us understand constraints so we can push against them. Their bold, simple forms define an architecture that supports lifes unfolding, inside and out. Alcatraz ADU (Mikiko Kikuyama)Alcatraz ADU 2021Affordable housing is an urgent topic for architects. Soon after the Neighborhood Homes Investment Act was passed in 2021, providing a federal tax credit for the development and renovation of one-to-four-family homes in distressed neighborhoods, Sidell Pakravan considered how to apply the legislation to ADUs. This ADU, a true tiny house, transforms an existing North Oakland garage294 square feet of underused space into an efficient quadrant of bedroom, kitchen, shower, and bath. Light spills in from a skylight at the roof ridge and the walls are open at their tops, which allows the light to bounce off the ceiling above the exposed beams and across the cozy interior. ADUs are the subtlest way to densify communities, as they are typically hidden from street frontages.Northwesterly House (Courtesy Sidell Pakravan)Northwesterly House 2024The Northwesterly House on Spencer Creek in rural Napa County overlooks 10 acres of oaks and chaparral. Its design emerged from a series of models that set up a rhythm of monoliths, which helps to navigate the large site. Five walls create a formal organizational strategy that explores the relationships between framed and shifting views of the surrounding landscape and the indeterminate interior. The house seems solid and monumental, but upon approach, golfers. Sidell Pakravans new design reflects the aesthetics and materials of the original building, which dates from 1940, while creating a modern, inclusive setting that aims to honor the clubhouses history and resonate with the community. A restaurant with panoramic golf course views supports the Lake Chabot areas revitalization. the individual walls delaminate. They form in-between spaces, with interior partitions defining the living, dining, and sleeping zones. Inside, the concrete walls create a softer atmosphere. Oversized glazed doors on the west facade give it transparency and capture the summer breeze. The house plays on its orientation to create an array of constantly revealing spatial experiences. Ohlone Greenway Extension (Courtesy Sidell Pakravan)Ohlone Greenway Extension 2022The Ohlone Greenway is a 5.3-mile-long pedestrian and bicycle path that cuts diagonally through Berkeley, leaving a ragged edge of empty lots. The city recently allocated $5 million to extend it. Building on that vision, Sidell Pakravan proposed the addition of housing and community spaces along the new portion of the Greenway, with bike and walking paths, and pocket parks. The mid-density housing includes space for work, gathering, shared gardens, and a bicycle workshop. Inverting the pattern of nearby neighborhoods, the design uses volume, light, and space to blur the building edges and envelopes. New construction is booming, but neighborhood sensitivity is often an afterthought. We want to help the community and its leaders understand why they matter and show them that they can get better housing thats still affordable, Pakravan said.Lake Chabot Golf Course Clubhouse (Courtesy Sidell Pakravan)Lake Chabot Golf Course Clubhouse 2024One of Oaklands treasured landmarks, Lake Chabot Golf Course, founded in 1923, has a rich history of golfing legends. The original Mission Revivalstyle clubhouse, a remnant of the 1940 Works Progress Administration program, was a vibrant center of community life until a kitchen fire badly damaged the structure in June 2023. The municipal golf course has been a home to PGA champions, Black golfing pioneers, and successive generations of young East Bay golfers. Sidell Pakravans new design reflects the aesthetics and materials of the original building, which dates from 1940, while creating a modern, inclusive setting that aims to honor the clubhouses history and resonate with the community. A restaurant with panoramic golf course views supports the Lake Chabot areas revitalization.Elizabeth Snowden is a writer based in the San Francisco Bay Area, where she also runs the Pallas Gallery.

Amazon is planning a Devices and Services event this week, where it's expected to make some major announcements. Here's what we know so far.

Having the right lighting for your live stream or edited content can make all the difference in production value and audience interest and engagement. The best streaming lights offer a balance between cost, smart features, and lighting control. While more established streamers and creators may use a multi-light system with key and fill lamps, ring lights, and RGB accent lighting, beginners should focus on having a single, quality key light. Also:The 5 best streaming mics: Start that podcast or Twitch channel What is the best streaming light right now? I've chosen the Elgato Key Light Mini as the best streaming light you can buy, not only for its solid construction and small-but-mighty lighting capabilities but also for its native Stream Deck integration and Wi-Fi connectivity. The built-in battery also gives you plenty of working time to get the perfect take or marathon of a new release on stream. Sort by All The best streaming lights in 2025 Show less Elgato is one of the top names in streaming gear, and for good reason. The Elgato Key Light Mini is an excellent option for beginner and established content creators with its affordable price tag and versatile functionality. It not only has a traditional thread mount for a boom arm, but it also features a magnetic plate on the back of the light itself.Also:You can go live on Twitch with streaming software, but which is the best?The Key Light Mini is also designed with Stream Deck device and app integration in mind. It connects to your computer or smartphone via Wi-Fi, allowing you to control brightness, color temperature, and power remotely and to sync your lights and audio with other programs. I often use the Key Light Mini for review photography, portraiture, and the occasional live stream, as the built-in battery gives you more than enough run time to handle an afternoon shoot or filming session. Verified Amazon reviewers also love the portable design and range of light settings.Elgato Key Light Mini features Wattage:45W |Max brightness:800 Lumens |Light temperature range:2900-7000K |RGB:No |Wireless:Yes |Connectivity:Wi-Fi, USB-C Pros Magnetic mounting option Stream Deck enabled Adjustable brightness and color temperature Built-in battery Cons No viewscreen for operation No RGB functionality Elgato is one of the top names in streaming gear, and for good reason. The Elgato Key Light Mini is an excellent option for beginner and established content creators with its affordable price tag and versatile functionality. It not only has a traditional thread mount for a boom arm, but it also features a magnetic plate on the back of the light itself.Also:You can go live on Twitch with streaming software, but which is the best?The Key Light Mini is also designed with Stream Deck device and app integration in mind. It connects to your computer or smartphone via Wi-Fi, allowing you to control brightness, color temperature, and power remotely and to sync your lights and audio with other programs. I often use the Key Light Mini for review photography, portraiture, and the occasional live stream, as the built-in battery gives you more than enough run time to handle an afternoon shoot or filming session. Verified Amazon reviewers also love the portable design and range of light settings.Elgato Key Light Mini features Wattage:45W |Max brightness:800 Lumens |Light temperature range:2900-7000K |RGB:No |Wireless:Yes |Connectivity:Wi-Fi, USB-C Read More Show Expert Take Show less Show less When I first got the Lume Cube Ring Light Pro to test last year, I was highly skeptical that it would have enough unique features to justify its high price tag. I was surprised to find that it does, and it quickly earned a permanent spot in my home photography studio.Also:Want to create better TikToks and Reels? You need one of these ring lightsThe best feature is that it has a built-in, rechargeable battery, instantly making it an ultra-portable option for outdoor locations. You can connect the Ring Light Pro to your devices via USB for power and to recharge the battery when a wall outlet isn't available.You can adjust the light's color temperature from as warm as 2700K for soft-fill lighting to as cool as 7500K to simulate daylight. With onboard control dials and an included remote, you can control the total brightness and color temperature.The only downside is that it doesn't have Bluetooth connectivity or compatibility with the Lume Cube companion app, which limits your ability to sync power, temperature, and brightness with other Lume Cube photography lights. Verified reviewers on Amazon and B&H Photo also love the built-in battery and the ability to fine-tune light color temperature to match ambient lighting.Lume Cube Ring Light Pro features Wattage:35W |Max brightness:1500 Lumens |Color temperature range:2700-7500K |RGB:No |Wireless:Yes |Connectivity:USB-C Pros Built-in rechargeable battery Adjustable color temperature and brightness Remote control and on-board dials USB power and charging Cons No Bluetooth or Wi-Fi connectivity Not compatible with Lume Cube companion app No RGB functionality When I first got the Lume Cube Ring Light Pro to test last year, I was highly skeptical that it would have enough unique features to justify its high price tag. I was surprised to find that it does, and it quickly earned a permanent spot in my home photography studio.Also:Want to create better TikToks and Reels? You need one of these ring lightsThe best feature is that it has a built-in, rechargeable battery, instantly making it an ultra-portable option for outdoor locations. You can connect the Ring Light Pro to your devices via USB for power and to recharge the battery when a wall outlet isn't available.You can adjust the light's color temperature from as warm as 2700K for soft-fill lighting to as cool as 7500K to simulate daylight. With onboard control dials and an included remote, you can control the total brightness and color temperature.The only downside is that it doesn't have Bluetooth connectivity or compatibility with the Lume Cube companion app, which limits your ability to sync power, temperature, and brightness with other Lume Cube photography lights. Verified reviewers on Amazon and B&H Photo also love the built-in battery and the ability to fine-tune light color temperature to match ambient lighting.Lume Cube Ring Light Pro features Wattage:35W |Max brightness:1500 Lumens |Color temperature range:2700-7500K |RGB:No |Wireless:Yes |Connectivity:USB-C Read More Show Expert Take Show less Show less View now at Amazon The Govee Hexa Glide light panels are an easy way to add visual interest, custom lighting effects, and fun colors to your stream backgrounds. You can choose a seven-, ten-, or 20-panel kit, which can be arranged in almost any configuration. The companion app gives you complete control over your kit with 40 lighting modes, custom color combinations, brightness and temperature sliders, and even Alexa and Hey Google integration for hands-free voice controls.Also:Need a green screen? Take your videos to the next level with our top picksI have a 10-panel Hexa Glide kit set up in our guest room, which doubles as my photography and streaming space. While some flashy light effects can feel overwhelming in a small space (even with the brightness turned down), each can produce impressively bright and rich colors, which allow you to create different moods and scenes.Verified reviewers on Amazon and at Best Buy agree that the colors and light can be very bright and vibrant and that you can create nearly endless color and pattern combinations with the customization tab in the companion app.Govee Hexa Glide features Wattage:36W |Max brightness:100 Lumens |Color temperature range:2200-6500K |RGB:Yes |Wireless:Yes |Connectivity:Wi-Fi, Bluetooth Pros Multiple kit options Tons of effects and colors Easy to set up and use Alexa and Hey Google integration Cons Some effects can overwhelm small spaces No built-in battery The Govee Hexa Glide light panels are an easy way to add visual interest, custom lighting effects, and fun colors to your stream backgrounds. You can choose a seven-, ten-, or 20-panel kit, which can be arranged in almost any configuration. The companion app gives you complete control over your kit with 40 lighting modes, custom color combinations, brightness and temperature sliders, and even Alexa and Hey Google integration for hands-free voice controls.Also:Need a green screen? Take your videos to the next level with our top picksI have a 10-panel Hexa Glide kit set up in our guest room, which doubles as my photography and streaming space. While some flashy light effects can feel overwhelming in a small space (even with the brightness turned down), each can produce impressively bright and rich colors, which allow you to create different moods and scenes.Verified reviewers on Amazon and at Best Buy agree that the colors and light can be very bright and vibrant and that you can create nearly endless color and pattern combinations with the customization tab in the companion app.Govee Hexa Glide features Wattage:36W |Max brightness:100 Lumens |Color temperature range:2200-6500K |RGB:Yes |Wireless:Yes |Connectivity:Wi-Fi, Bluetooth Read More Show Expert Take Show less Show less View now at Amazon Govee has been making a name for itself with affordable, customizable RGB lighting solutions for streamers and regular folks alike. Their Neon Rope Light 2 offers improved flexibility and all-new pattern creation systems within the app to truly make your space your own. You can choose from 64 preset effects, including solid colors and reactive modes, and with integrated support for Alexa, Hey Google, and Matter, it's easy to integrate into your existing smart home network.Review: Govee Neon Rope Light 2ZDNET writer Maria Diaz was able to try out the Neon Rope Light 2 for herself, and quickly proclaimed it the "smart home accessory [she] didn't know [she] needed." The enhanced flexibility made it easier to create custom shapes, with included clips and helpful instructions.Govee Neon Rope Light 2 features Wattage:48W|Max brightness:Not specified |Color temperature range:Not specified |RGB:Yes |Wireless:Yes |Connectivity:Wi-Fi, Bluetooth Pros Easier to create custom shapes 64 presets Tons of customization options Cons Pricey Govee has been making a name for itself with affordable, customizable RGB lighting solutions for streamers and regular folks alike. Their Neon Rope Light 2 offers improved flexibility and all-new pattern creation systems within the app to truly make your space your own. You can choose from 64 preset effects, including solid colors and reactive modes, and with integrated support for Alexa, Hey Google, and Matter, it's easy to integrate into your existing smart home network.Review: Govee Neon Rope Light 2ZDNET writer Maria Diaz was able to try out the Neon Rope Light 2 for herself, and quickly proclaimed it the "smart home accessory [she] didn't know [she] needed." The enhanced flexibility made it easier to create custom shapes, with included clips and helpful instructions.Govee Neon Rope Light 2 features Wattage:48W|Max brightness:Not specified |Color temperature range:Not specified |RGB:Yes |Wireless:Yes |Connectivity:Wi-Fi, Bluetooth Read More Show Expert Take Show less Show less View now at Amazon Dubbed the "Alix Earle phone light," the Newmowa 60W mobile light went viral on TikTok for being a quality lighting option for content creators at a surprisingly affordable price. At just $25, this light panel can give your Insta Reels, YouTube Shorts, or TikTok videos an instant boost in production value.Review:Newmowa Mobile LightIt connects to your phone with a clip for easy placement, adjustment, and removal. It also connects to devices via micro-USB or USB-C for steady power or to charge the built-in battery. The Newmowa mobile light has three modes (bright white, bright white/warm yellow, and warm yellow) and ten brightness levels, giving you plenty of control over the look and feel of your videos and still photos. ZDNET's Christina Darby went hands-on with the Newmowa mobile light to see if it was too good to be true. She was surprised that such an affordable lighting solution could add vibrance and depth to everything from simple front-camera selfies to staged product photos. Verified reviews on Amazon and its viral popularity on social media are a testament to the quality and value of the 60W mobile light. Many buyers were pleasantly surprised at how bright and durable the light was and how much better it made their photos and short-form videos look.Newmowa mobile light features Wattage:60W |Max brightness:250 Lumens |Color temperature range:3200-5600K |RGB:No |Wireless:No |Connectivity:USB Pros Under $30 3 light modes and 10 brightness levels USB-C charging Built-in battery Cons No Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connectivity No companion app or remote for changing brightness or color temperature Dubbed the "Alix Earle phone light," the Newmowa 60W mobile light went viral on TikTok for being a quality lighting option for content creators at a surprisingly affordable price. At just $25, this light panel can give your Insta Reels, YouTube Shorts, or TikTok videos an instant boost in production value.Review:Newmowa Mobile LightIt connects to your phone with a clip for easy placement, adjustment, and removal. It also connects to devices via micro-USB or USB-C for steady power or to charge the built-in battery. The Newmowa mobile light has three modes (bright white, bright white/warm yellow, and warm yellow) and ten brightness levels, giving you plenty of control over the look and feel of your videos and still photos. ZDNET's Christina Darby went hands-on with the Newmowa mobile light to see if it was too good to be true. She was surprised that such an affordable lighting solution could add vibrance and depth to everything from simple front-camera selfies to staged product photos. Verified reviews on Amazon and its viral popularity on social media are a testament to the quality and value of the 60W mobile light. Many buyers were pleasantly surprised at how bright and durable the light was and how much better it made their photos and short-form videos look.Newmowa mobile light features Wattage:60W |Max brightness:250 Lumens |Color temperature range:3200-5600K |RGB:No |Wireless:No |Connectivity:USB Read More Show Expert Take Show less What is the best light for streaming? My choice for the best streaming light is the Elgato Key Light Mini. Not only is it compact enough for use in smaller spaces, but it also offers a magnetic mounting option to give you nearly endless placement possibilities. It also features native Stream Deck integration for remote control over brightness, color temperature, power, and syncing with other lights you may have set up. Best streaming lightBest priceRGBWireless connectivityElgato Key Light Mini $60No Wi-FiLume Cube Ring Light Pro $155No N/AGovee Hexa Glide $180 Yes Bluetooth, Wi-FiGovee Neon Rope Light 2$75Yes Wi-Fi, BluetoothNewmowa mobile light $32No N/A*Lowest MSRP at time of writing. Please note that actual retail prices may vary depending on the seller as well as available deals and active promotions. Show more Which is the right streaming light for you? If you're just starting out at a Twitch streamer or content creator, you have plenty of options for high-quality, affordable streaming lights. The Elgato Key Light Mini retails for about $80, and offers several brightness and color temperature options for fine-tuning your signature style and boosting production values. But even something like the Newmowa 60W mobile light, which retails for about $25, can go a long way towards improving the quality of your recordings and live streams.More established streamers and creators may want to spring for more sophisticated lights, like the Lume Cube Tube Light Mini, which are capable of both warm/cool white and RGB colors. When blended with similarly capable lights, you can create custom color schemes to match your stream or eSports team colors, personal branding, or just show off your favorite colors that day. Other lights, like the GE Cync strip lights, feature reactive lighting functions, producing impactful visuals in time with music, sound effects, and dialogue.Buy this best streaming light...If you need...Elgato Key Light Mini A well-rounded key light for streaming. The Elgato Key Light Mini features a magnetic mount for nearly endless placement options as well as Bluetooth connectivity for enhanced control. Lume Cube Ring Light Pro A professional-quality ring light for streaming. The Lume Cube Ring Light Pro not only offers Bluetooth connectivity, but also a built-in battery for better portability. Govee Hexa Glide A set of RGB light panels for streaming. With multiple kit options, the Govee Hexa Glide allows you to create custom RGB wall lighting for stream backgrounds. Govee Neon Rope Light 2A reliable strip light option for streaming. The strip light is capable of both white and RGB lighting and easily integrates with Alexa and Hey Google for hands-free controls. Newmowa mobile light A budget-friendly and portable light for streaming. The Newmowa mobile light's quality vs. price made it go viral on TikTok, and it can elevate your content without breaking the bank. Show more Factors to consider when looking for a streaming light Whether you're looking for your first set of lights or upgrading an existing streaming setup, it's important to keep these criteria in mind:Price:Just because a light is expensive, that doesn't mean that it's going to magically make your streams and videos better. Make sure you choose a light that is well within your budget and while also offering the features you need.Light type:Should you choose a key light or ring light? While all lights technically do the same thing, different types are meant for different jobs. A ring light is for close-up shots, making them perfect for MUAs, artists, and model builders. Key lights are meant for lighting spaces, so they're better for roundtable discussions and "talking head" style face cam streams.Light color:Do you need soft yellow or bright white? Are RGB lights worth it? Soft yellow lights are better for use during the day since they blend with natural light better, while bright white is best for studio settings. RGB lights are best used sparingly for visual effects. Show more How did we choose these lights for streaming? While testing and researching each streaming light featured on this list, I and other ZDNET experts chose these criteria:LED bulb: While compact fluorescent lights are a great, affordable option for photography, they can run hot and be expensive to operate. Each light on this list was chosen for its use of LED bulbs for energy efficiency and temperature control.Light size and portability: Most streamers and content creators work in small spaces like bedrooms and home offices. And many others will often collaborate or travel for filming. Every light on this list was chosen for its compact size and portability.Smart features: While a streaming light doesn't have to be "smart," it does help to streamline your production. Every light on this list was chosen because it has some form of smart features like Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connectivity, voice control integration, or a companion app. Show more FAQs on streaming lights What light color is best for streaming? Color isn't as important as tone. Studio lighting can either be "cool" (with a slightly blue tint) or "warm" (with a slightly yellow tint). Choosing the right lighting tone for your space can go a long way toward raising your production values since it won't wash out details and colors. Lighting solutions marked "daylight" are often on the cool spectrum, using very bright, flat white, or slightly blue-tinted light. These are good for nighttime filming and dark spaces. Warmer lights are often labeled "soft white" and are better for daytime filming since they blend better with natural sunlight.If you want to add a bit of visual flair to your streams, there are tons of RGB lighting solutions on the market, like the Govee Glide Hexa panels. These lights can be set to virtually any color, and different lighting patterns can often be used to make your backgrounds more interesting. Show more How many lights do I need for streaming? You need at least one major light source to properly illuminate your space. If you're just starting out, your room's overhead light or even a table lamp can be good options. But if you want better production values, it's worth investing in at least one key light and using a combination of existing lamps and ambient light to eliminate harsh shadows. More experienced content creators may want to consider buying a key light as well as a fill light, especially if they plan to use 4K cameras for face cams or secondary filming since improper lighting will muddle details and colors.For RGB lighting, you can set up strip, panel, or tower lights and sync them with either a control box or their corresponding desktop app. This allows you to not only create custom color and lighting schemes but you can also sync lighting effects to game sounds and soundtracks, live and recorded music, or your voice. Another trick you can use to mimic professional lighting is to turn your monitor into a key light. You can do this by pulling up a blank document in Word or Google Docs. The bright light will help illuminate your face for streams. You can also search for specific color swatches and make them fill the whole screen for a bit of DIY RGB accent lighting. Show more What is the difference between key lights, fill lights, and ring lights? Different types of lights serve different purposes for photographers, videographers, and streamers. A key light can be any sort of lighting option, but it is usually the main lamp used to illuminate a space. Fill lights are secondary lamps that are used to "fill out" the rest of the space and eliminate harsh shadows. Ring lights are special lamps designed to provide consistent, flat lighting for close-up filming like make-up tutorials and vlogs. Show more More streaming lights to consider Further ZDNET Tech Coverage Smartphones Smartwatches Tablets Laptops TVs Other Tech Resources ZDNET Recommends

Apple has announced plans to invest $500 billion in its U.S operations over the next four years.Getty ImagesApples announcement today of a $500 billion U.S. investment over the next four years arrives at a pivotal moment in the AI infrastructure race. This strategic move follows Metas previous unveiling of its own $65 billion AI infrastructure investment for 2025, which includes plans for a massive two-gigawatt data center. Meanwhile, Microsoft appears to be recalibrating its approach, with reports emerging today of the company pausing construction on its $3.3 billion Wisconsin data center, despite announcing an $80 billion investment in AI-enabled data centers for 2025.These developments reveal a landscape where aggressive expansion and strategic pullbacks are happening simultaneously as tech giants navigate the unprecedented demands of next-generation AI systems.Expansion And RestraintThe scale of AI infrastructure development reached new heights last month when Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg announced via Facebook plans for a data center requiring more than two gigawatts of power and housing 1.3 million Nvidia GPUs. "This will be a defining year for AI," Zuckerberg stated. "We're planning to invest US$60-65bn in capex this year while also growing our AI teams significantly."And yet, this expansion isn't universal across the tech landscape. Microsoft has now, according to a TD Cowen report, reportedly canceled data center leases totaling "several hundred megawatts with at least two private data center operators, while also pulling back on planned international investments."This apparent contradiction reveals the complex reality facing technology companies as they attempt to forecast AI infrastructure needs traditional data centers designed for web hosting and cloud computing lack the specialized hardware and power infrastructure required for sophisticated AI models, forcing companies to build new facilities or extensively retrofit existing ones.Apple's Long-Term PositioningAgainst this backdrop, Apple's investment takes on strategic significance. The cornerstone of today's announcement is a 250,000-square-foot AI server facility in Houston scheduled to open in 2026. This facility will produce servers "previously manufactured outside the US," according to Apple's press release, supporting its Apple Intelligence system for iPhones and Macs.Apple is also expanding its domestic semiconductor capabilities, with mass production of chips already underway at TSMC's Arizona facility as of January 2025. The Financial Times states that "the vast majority of the cutting-edge chips needed to power the latest iPhones are produced by TSMC in Taiwan," making this domestic production shift particularly notable.The company has also committed to doubling its U.S. Advanced Manufacturing Fund to $10 billion, with a significant portion directed toward securing chips from TSMC's Arizona facility. This vertical integration strategy addresses both supply chain vulnerabilities and the specialized component requirements for AI systems.Apple's announcement comes just days after CEO Tim Cook met with President Trump at the White House last week. Trump posted on Truth Social that the investment reflected Apple's "faith in what we are doing," and the news comes shortly after the White House introduced 10% tariffs on goods imported from China this month.Industry analysts, meanwhile, remain measured in their assessment of these headline-grabbing investment figures. Gil Luria of D.A. Davidson told Reuters "It is unclear whether this announcement represents an acceleration in spend." The comprehensive nature of Apple's investment figure which Reuters reports "includes everything from purchases from U.S. suppliers to U.S. filming of television shows and movies for its Apple TV+ service" makes it difficult to assess its incremental impact.Industry RecalibrationMicrosoft announced a pause on the construction of its $3.3 billion Wisconsin data centerGetty ImagesWhat makes the current landscape particularly intriguing is the contrast between infrastructure pullbacks and continued executive optimism about AI demand. Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella recently characterized AI workloads as "manna from heaven" for cloud providers on a podcast cited by Capacity Media, stating they're "more hungry for more compute, not just for training, but we now know, for test time."Despite this, Microsofts has paused the development of a $3.3 billion data center in Wisconsin that was intended to support OpenAI's development of advanced AI systems. In a separate interview on the Dwarkesh Podcast, Nadella acknowledged that "there will be an overbuild" of AI infrastructure, suggesting that the company is strategically pacing its investments rather than abandoning them entirely.This careful balancing act extends beyond Microsoft. Industry analysts cited by Capacity Media suggest that Microsoft may be leveraging "power and facility delays as a justification for terminating certain agreements a tactic previously employed by Meta when it cancelled multiple U.S. data centre leases after scaling back its $48 billion metaverse investment."New Models for Infrastructure DevelopmentAs individual companies navigate these challenges, new collaborative approaches are emerging. Last month, Technology Magazine reported that OpenAI had spearheaded the Stargate project a $500 billion investment consortium with SoftBank that aims to establish shared computing facilities across the U.S.This consortium model could represent a promising path forward, allowing companies to share enormous capital costs while maintaining competitive advantages through their proprietary AI models and applications. It also acknowledges that the infrastructure requirements for advanced AI may exceed what any single company can reasonably develop independently.Apple's approach, by contrast, emphasizes self-reliance and vertical integration. The company plans to hire approximately 20,000 staff by 2029, with the "vast majority" focused on research and development, silicon engineering and AI capabilities, according to its press release suggesting a strategy focused on internal capability development rather than external partnerships.The Path ForwardAs tech giants navigate this complex landscape, their infrastructure strategies reveal much about how they envision AI's future development. Apple's emphasis on vertical integration and domestic manufacturing suggests a focus on controlling critical technology components. Microsoft's recalibration indicates a more measured approach to infrastructure expansion, potentially allowing for greater flexibility as AI requirements evolve.What is clear, is that the technology landscape is being fundamentally reshaped by these strategic decisions. As companies balance explosive growth projections against practical infrastructure constraints, the next few years will determine whether these massive investments deliver on their transformative promises, or whether the industry is heading toward an infrastructure adjustment a pivotal question that will influence technology's trajectory for years to come.

Mars had a vast ocean with ancient beaches, suggests data from China's Zhurong rover. (artist's ... [+] Impression of a rover on the surface of Mars).gettyMars was once home to a vast ocean, complete with sandy beaches and rolling waves, according to data from Chinas Zhurong rover, which landed on the red planet in 2021.New research published this week in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences reveals underground rock layers that resemble coastal deposits on Earth, suggesting the presence of an ancient ocean billions of years ago on the red planet.Were finding places on Mars that used to look like ancient beaches and ancient river deltas, said Benjamin Cardenas, assistant professor of geology at Penn State and co-author of the study. We found evidence for wind, waves, no shortage of sand a proper, vacation-style beach.It supports the theory that Mars once had a much thicker atmosphere, allowing liquid water to exist on its surface for millions of years.Radar Reveals Ancient Shoreline On MarsZhurong, part of Chinas Tianwen-1 mission, landed in Utopia Planitia a vast lava plain long suspected to have once been submerged under an ancient Martian ocean. Unlike previous rovers sent by NASA, Zhurong was equipped with ground-penetrating radar, enabling it to examine the planets subsurface.As the rover traversed the red planet, it used radar to scan up to 260 feet (80 meters) beneath the surface. The scans revealed thick, sloping layers of material consistent with foreshore deposits seen in coastal regions on Earth. These formations form when waves and tides transport sediments along a shoreline.This stood out to us immediately because it suggests there were waves, said Cardenas. When we look back at where the earliest life on Earth developed, it was in the interaction between oceans and land, so this is painting a picture of ancient habitable environments, capable of harboring conditions friendly toward microbial life.A hypothetical picture of Mars 3.6 billion years ago, when an ocean may have covered nearly half the ... [+] planet. The blue areas show the depth of the ocean filled to the shoreline level of the ancient, now-gone sea, dubbed Deuteronilus. The orange star represents the landing site of the Chinese rover Zhurong. The yellow star is the site of NASA's Perseverance rover, which landed a few months before Zhurong.Robert CitronA Long-Lived Ocean On MarsThe researchers ruled out other possible explanations, such as ancient river flows, wind-driven sand dunes and volcanic activity. The structures dont look like sand dunes. They dont look like an impact crater. They dont look like lava flows. Thats when we started thinking about oceans," said Michael Manga, a University of California, Berkeley, professor of Earth and planetary science.All the evidence points to an old shoreline, supporting the idea that there was a large, ice-free ocean for a long period, which accumulated the sand-like beach. The researchers also think that there were rivers that dumped sediment into the ocean, which was distributed by waves along the beaches. The sand thats on those beaches is coming in from the rivers, and then it's being transported by currents in the ocean and continually being transported up and down the beaches by the waves coming and going up and down the beach, said Manga.Its more evidence to support the theory that Mars had an ocean and possibly rivers in its northern hemisphere about four billion years ago, when the planets atmosphere was thick enough to sustain liquid water.Tianwen-1 Lander and Zhurong Rover in Southern Utopia PlanitiaNASA/JPL/UArizonaImplications For Climate And Life On MarsScientists have long debated how Mars lost its water. While some of it likely escaped into space, researchers believe much of it may still be trapped underground in ice or mineral formations.Zhurongs discovery also supports previous speculation that an ocean once covered Marss northern hemisphere something suspected since the Viking missions to Mars in the 1970s. However, until now, direct evidence of a Martian shoreline has been elusive.Shoreline deposits are typically eroded over billions of years, but these have remained preserved beneath the surface," said Cardenas. Shorelines are great locations to look for evidence of past life. Its thought that the earliest life on Earth began at locations like this, near the interface of air and shallow water, he said.Future missions, including sample return efforts, may provide even more definitive proof of Marss watery past. For now, the idea of Martian beaches and waves offers an exciting glimpse into the planets ancient history and its potential to have once supported life.If you want to see Mars in the night sky from the Northern Hemisphere, just look high in the southeast after dark. Its currently next to the two bright stars of Gemini, Castor and Pollux.Wishing you clear skies and wide eyes.

Key TakeawaysApple has discontinued its Advanced Data Protection (ADP) feature for UK users after the government demanded backdoor access to encrypted iCloud data.The UK law allows authorities to monitor online data, forcing Apple to either comply or stop offering encryption. The company chose to withdraw the feature instead of compromising global security.Apple emphasized its commitment to user privacy and clarified that it has not created a backdoor. The encryption feature remains available in other countries.Apple dropped its standout data security encryption feature for UK users after the government demanded backdoor access to user data stored on the cloud.Apple, of course, is known for being privacy-conscious. Its Advanced Data Protection feature, launched in 2022, made it possible to ensure airtight security, as only the users have access to their data on their trusted devices. Not even the company could get their hands on it.It was an opt-in feature and worked on all the data stored in iCloud photos, files, notes, etc. Users who didnt need this kind of protection could simply opt out of it, which will apparently be the only option for British users now.The problem, however, with this feature was that it made the conversations and everything else almost too hard for the government to track. The UKs argument, therefore, is that the feature makes it easier for criminals and illegal launderers to communicate and make malicious plans outside of government monitoring.Its also worth noting thatUK has had issues with end-to-end encryption since the day it was launched. It finally gave an ultimatum to the tech giant to either give them access to the data saved on the cloud or let go of their users in that country.Apples ConundrumWhile losing the UK market would have been a huge blow for Apple, there was no way it would compromise on its USP and put the data of not just UK users, but everyone else too, at stake for saving it.Agreeing to give backdoor access to the UK government could invite potential hackers to exploit this window and get access to user data for criminal activity. This would put Apples overall security in a compromising position. So, the company decided to opt for the next best alternative: removing encryption services in the UK.We are gravely disappointed that the protections provided by ADP will not be available to our customers in the UK given the continuing rise of data breaches and other threats to customer privacy AppleThe announcement was made on Friday that the Advanced Data Protection encryption feature will no longer be available to new users. The feature will soon be wiped off from existing devices as well.What This Means from the Security Front for the UKWhile reduced security is the obvious consequence of this update, its important to note that the notice served to Apple for providing a backdoor access to user data was in line with the UKs Investigatory Powers Act of 2016.This law gives British spies official authority to snoop on the online data of its citizens, including citizens outside the country. Moreover, it gives permission for internet eavesdropping and harvesting data for furthering the authorities own purposes. Whether this is on the right or wrong side of morality, I leave it up to you to decide.Even more concerning is the fact that the notices sent by this organization cannot even be publicly reported to the media, which is why Apple had to keep the reason under wraps when it removed data security features in the UK. The tech leader, however, made it a point to clarify that it still remains committed to offering the highest level of security to its users and has not agreed to build a back door of any sort. The feature shall continue to be operational in other parts of the world.Add Techreport to Your Google News Feed Get the latest updates, trends, and insights delivered straight to your fingertips. Subscribe now! Subscribe now Vlad is Techreport's in-house Executive Editor. With over a decade of experience in tech content, he's passionate about computer hardware, an advocate of online privacy, and strongly believes in the open-source, scarce-money nature of cryptocurrency. When hes not working, hes traveling with his partner and their cat, learning Python, or reading good books. He never owned a PC he did not build. View all articles by Vlad Melnic Our editorial processThe Tech Reporteditorial policyis centered on providing helpful, accurate content that offers real value to our readers. We only work with experienced writers who have specific knowledge in the topics they cover, including latest developments in technology, online privacy, cryptocurrencies, software, and more. Our editorial policy ensures that each topic is researched and curated by our in-house editors. We maintain rigorous journalistic standards, and every article is 100% written byreal authors.

Key TakeawaysAfter months of testing, Apple is finally launching a complete suite of hearing healthcare features to AirPods 2.The launch is expected to happen by the end of fall this year in the UK.Now, along with getting a hearing test, Apple users can actually wear the AirPods as hearing aids for mild to moderate hearing loss cases.Apple AirPods can now double up as hearing aids. The feature will first be added to Airpod 2 by the end of this fall in the UK.Airpod 2 already allows users to take a 5-minute hearing test to check their hearing levels which also comes with a detailed report indicating the amount of hearing loss in each ear. You also get an audiogram which is directly stored on your phones health app. In case you want to consult a licensed professional, this audiogram will come in very handy.And now with the new additions, Apple users in the UK will also get the ability to balance their hearing levels, especially in a crowded, noisy area.Explaining further about this revolutionary new tech, Dr. Sumbul Desai (the vice president of health at Apple) said that depending on how much an individuals hearing has been affected, the Airpod will increase the volume of the surrounding sounds, enabling them to hear better.On the flip side, if someone has sensitive ears and they have trouble adjusting to loud noises, the AirPod will bring down the volume through noise cancellation to ease their ears.Are AirPods the Future of Hearing Aids?Apples decision to integrate hearing healthcare into the AirPods is truly revolutionary. For starters, it improves accessibility people might be reluctant to step out of their homes for a routine hearing test.However, if they can get it done from their homes with just an Airpod, they are more likely to take the test. This helps in early detection and minimizes the chances of serious hearing loss.In addition to that, these AirPods can provide all the support needed for mild to moderate hearing loss cases. This means that people wont have to pay extra for a hearing aid which is not only expensive but also draws attention.A lot of people are not comfortable wearing clunky hearing aids out in public, so an Airpod will be a blessing for them, allowing them to manage their hearing without any social stigma.The timing of this release couldnt have been better. The Department of Health in the UK has just issued a new guideline allowing such over-the-counter devices to compete at par with traditional hearing aids.In the UK (and many places around the world), access to hearing healthcare remains a major issue. People often wait for months to get tested by a licensed professional. But with the advent of devices like Apples AirPods, more and more people will now have instant access to hearing healthcare.By harnessing innovation in UK healthcare, we can turn our country into a medical technology superpower Wes Streeting, the UK Health SecretaryDepending on the devices performance in the next few months, other countries might soon follow in the footsteps of the UK and join hands with Apple to streamline and transform their hearing healthcare industry.Add Techreport to Your Google News Feed Get the latest updates, trends, and insights delivered straight to your fingertips. Subscribe now! Subscribe now Alpa is a senior editor with a wealth of experience in alternative finance, fintech, cryptocurrency, app security software, and the medical industry. She's currently an in-house managing editor with the Techreport team.Alpa is passionate about breaking down complex topics and sharing informative content that provides value. View all articles by Alpa Somaiya Our editorial processThe Tech Reporteditorial policyis centered on providing helpful, accurate content that offers real value to our readers. We only work with experienced writers who have specific knowledge in the topics they cover, including latest developments in technology, online privacy, cryptocurrencies, software, and more. Our editorial policy ensures that each topic is researched and curated by our in-house editors. We maintain rigorous journalistic standards, and every article is 100% written byreal authors.

Why it matters: Sigma has introduced a new full-frame mirrorless camera designed for those that prefer to focus on shooting rather than fiddling with excessive buttons, dials, and settings. The new Sigma BF features a 24.6-megapixel full-frame back-illuminated CMOS sensor inside of a unibody chassis carved from a single piece of aluminum over a seven-hour period. Instead of the usual array of dials and buttons on the top of the camera, you get a single shutter button.Around back, it is mostly more of the same. Next to the 3.15-inch fixed touchscreen LCD are three pressure-sensitive haptic buttons and a dial for navigating a refined user interface. There's also a small status monitor that shows the current active setting, further decluttering the main display. A power button can be found on the right side of the body, and there's a tripod mount on the bottom.Sigma has baked in 13 preset color modes including standard, warm gold, sunset red, and monochrome for a customized look without having to pop into an editing program. Most serious photographers will probably bypass this feature, but it is there should you want to play around with it.There's no viewfinder, nor is there a memory card slot. All images and videos are stored on a 230 GB internal storage solution that can hold up to 14,000 JPEG files, 4,300 uncompressed RAW images, or up to 2.5 hours of 6K video. In continuous shooting mode, the camera can capture up to eight frames per second.The BP-81 battery back is removable and according to the Japanese camera maker, you can expect to get around 260 still photos or up to an hour of recording per charge. A USB-C connector is used for data transfer and quick charging, we're told. // Related StoriesThe Sigma BF is available to pre-order now priced at $1,999 without a lens in your choice of black or silver. It is compatible with L-Mount lenses from Sigma, Panasonic, and Leica. Look for it to ship this April.

Masters of the Universe is officially in production.Amazon MGM Studios shared the first-look photo of Nicholas Galitzine as Adam Grayskull/He-Man. While Galitzines face is hidden, his hands are prominently featured as they grip the handle of the Sword of Power.Recommended VideosGalitzine posted the photo to his Instagram, noting that his transformation into He-Man required several months of intense training.Please enable Javascript to view this contentOur director Travis Knight has assembled the most incredible ensemble cast and created a stunning tapestry of Eternia and its surrounding world, Galitzine wrote in the caption. I cant wait for you to see. More to come, but until then, heres a sneak peek at the Sword of Power. By the power of Grayskull!Besides Galitzine, Masters of the Universe stars Camila Mendes as Teela, Alison Brie as Evil-Lyn, Jared Leto as Skeletor, Idris Elba as Duncan/Man-at-Arms, Morena Baccarin as the Sorceress, Sam C. Wilson as Trap Jaw, Jhannes Haukur Jhannesson as Fisto, Kojo Attah as Tri-Klops, Jon Xue Zhang as Ram-Man, Hafthor Bjornsson as Goat Man, Charlotte Riley as Queen Marlena, James Purefoy as King Randor, Sasheer Zamata as Suzie, and Christian Vunipola as Hussein.Eternia is in good hands. Here's your first look at Nicholas Galitzine as He-Man with the Sword of Power in the upcoming film #MastersOfTheUniverse. pic.twitter.com/oEvuMY0So4 Amazon MGM Studios (@AmazonMGMStudio) February 24, 2025Travis Knight will direct the live-action Masters of the Universefrom a screenplay by Chris Butler. Based on Mattels media franchise,Masters of the Universewill follow Adam Grayskull, who crash-lands on Earth and becomes separated from the Power Sword. Decades later, Prince Adam must wield his sword and transform into He-Man to save his planet Eternia from Skeletor.Masters of the Universe opens in theaterson June 5, 2026.Editors Recommendations

For a budget-friendly device that will still be able to get you through your daily tasks, you should consider the HP 15.6-inch Laptop, especially now that its on sale from Walmart with a $200 discount that drops its price to only $299 from $499. Were not sure how long youve got until the offer expires, so if you want to take advantage of one of the most affordable laptop deals that weve recently seen, you need to hurry in completing your transaction.The HP 15.6-inch Laptop isnt equipped to beat the performance of the best laptops. It only packs the AMD Ryzen 5 7520U processor, AMD Radeon Graphics, and 8GB of RAM thats typically found in entry-level laptops, according to our guide on how much RAM do you need. However, these specifications will be more than enough for simple tasks such as doing online research, typing documents, and making presentations, so if youll mostly be using your laptop for these activities, this is a purchase thats perfect for you.As you can guess from its name, the HP 15.6-inch Laptop features a 15.6-inch screen with Full HD resolution, for sharp details and bright colors while youre browsing social media and watching streaming shows. The laptop also comes with Windows 11 Home pre-loaded so you dont have to worry about installing an operating system yourself, and it has a 512GB SSD that will provide ample storage space for the files that you need to have with you at all times and the apps that youll be using regularly. The HP 15.6-inch Laptop is also portable as it weighs about 3.5 pounds and offers a battery life of up to 10 hours on a single charge.RelatedWhile there are HP laptop deals featuring top-of-the-line models, there are also some offers that further lower the prices of affordable options. Heres one from Walmart a $200 discount for the HP 15.6-inch Laptop, which slashes its price from $499 to just $299. Theres a chance that the savings will no longer be available as soon as tomorrow though, so if you think the HP 15.6-inch Laptop will be enough for your needs, we highly recommend adding it to your cart and finishing the checkout process as soon as possible.Editors Recommendations