• Fortnite creator faces another lawsuit over in-game store
    www.videogamer.com
    You can trust VideoGamer. Our team of gaming experts spend hours testing and reviewing the latest games, to ensure you're reading the most comprehensive guide possible. Rest assured, all imagery and advice is unique and original. Check out how we test and review games hereEpic Games, the creator of Fortnite, has another lawsuit on its hands. Two parents are unhappy with how the in-game store operates, and they sued the company in a San Francisco court. The lawsuit, which claims that Fortnites Item Shop creates the illusion of scarcity, contains factual errors, which is why Epic released a statement about it.The latest Fortnite lawsuit is over the Item ShopThe lawsuit was filed on March 5 and contains 21 pages of alleged deceptive practices. Interestingly, the document shows outdated images which are no longer relevant. Over the past year, Epic Games has changed the Item Shop, removing timers and showing exactly when the cosmetic items will leave it. Furthermore, the document includes discounted bundles.But, when their countdown timers expired, Fortnites ItemShop products did not disappear or return to full price. They remained available for purchase, often at the same purportedly discounted rate, for many days or even weeks at a time, the plaintiffs claim. Interestingly, the lawsuit also involves Renegade Raider, which used to be a rare skin. However, that is not the case anymore. Some items, such as the ultra-rare Renegade Raider outfit, were offered briefly and have notbeen offered in more than six years.The latest lawsuit against Fortnite also brings up discounted bundles. Image by VideoGamerEpic Games released the following statement to Polygon: This complaint contains factual errors and does not reflect how Fortnite operates.Last year we removed the countdown timer in the Item Shopand we offer protections against unwanted purchases. This includes ahold-to-purchase mechanic,instant purchase cancellations,self service returns for shop purchasesand an explicit yes/no choice to save payment information. In addition, the company brought up Parental Controls, which are used to prevent purchases for minors. We will fight these claims, the Epic Games spokeperson concluded.This is not the first time that the Fortnite creator was sued by parents and likely wont be the last. However, Epic Games remains firm in its stance, stating that the lawsuit misrepresents how Fortnite operates, but well have to wait a bit longer to see the outcome of the lawsuit. FortnitePlatform(s):Android, iOS, macOS, Nintendo Switch, PC, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series S/XGenre(s):Action, Massively Multiplayer, Shooter9VideoGamerRelated TopicsFortnite Subscribe to our newsletters!By subscribing, you agree to our Privacy Policy and may receive occasional deal communications; you can unsubscribe anytime.Share
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  • 11 Best Couches on Amazon That Actually Look Good in 2025
    www.architecturaldigest.com
    When you sit down to Google the best couches on Amazon, patience is required. Some people take years to find the perfect sofa, considering the world of options there are out there. Depending on your prioritiesa cozy spot for impromptu naps, a petite design that can fit the smallest of small spaces, or a big statement to anchor your living roomits especially easy to get lost in an endless Amazon scroll of unknown brand names.Your interior design and home decor preferences are only the beginning. The best sofas blend right into a scene and provide plenty of functionality, whether youre looking for a chic three-seater to replace your old recliner or sofa bed, an L-shaped couch for movie nights with all of your friends, or a pull-out bed for unexpected guests. Consider what the couch is made of to better understand how long it might be in your life. Is the frame made of solid wood? Are the cushion covers washable? Is the upholstery high quality? Do you really need a memory foam sleeper sofa?Ahead, we broke down some of the best couches and sectionals you can find on Amazon at all price points. All youll have to do is find some fun throw pillows to toss on top.Our Top Picks for the Best Couches on AmazonBest Sofa for Old-School Glamour: Jennifer Taylor Home James Modern Tuxedo Sofa, $914Best Staid, Subdued Sofa: Stone & Beam Westview, $1,173 $951Best Midcentury Style: Modway Engage Mid-Century Modern Upholstered Fabric Loveseat, $682Best Sleek Sleeper Sofa: Signature Design by Ashley Jarreau Sleeper, $727Best Luxe Leather Sofa: Poly & Bark Capa Sofa, $2,390Modway Engage Mid-Century Modern Upholstered LoveseatSpecsDimensions: 78"W x 25"D x 19"HWeight: 89 lbsWeight limit: 440 lbs5-star reviews: 872Silhouette aside, this sofas color options are a serious nod to midcentury days past (atomic red, citrus, teal, gray, and wheatgrass, to give you an idea). Its a relatively small optiongreat for studio apartments or one-bedrooms with petite living spaces. The polyester upholstery is simple and chic, the perfect perch for super texture-heavy throw pillows.Jennifer Taylor Home James Modern Tuxedo SofaSpecsDimensions: 74"W x 34"D x 32"HWeight: 108 lbsWeight limit: 600 lbs5-star reviews: 2This three-seater velvet couch has all of the classic elements of a tuxedo sofasquare tufting, track arms, and a statuesque silhouettewith the ultra-femme touch of gem-hued, high-performance velvet. The seat cushions are easily removable, making quick work of spot cleaning. One somewhat invisible perk: When disassembled, the sofa slides right through narrow hallways and doorways. While it doesnt have as many 5-star reviews as we might usually recommend you look out for, Jennifer Taylor Home is a known entity in the affordable furniture space.Karl Home Modular Sectional Sofa with OttomanSpecsDimensions: 122"W x 24"D x 33.4"HWeight: N/AWeight limit: 1,000 lbs5-star reviews: 223If velvet isnt your vibe but you want something you can absentmindedly pet as you binge-watch 90 Day Fianc, chenille is worth considering. While we love a comfy fabric, the versatility of this modular design with deep seats is what were really into. You can add more pieces as you gain more space, or break the sectional into a couch and single seat if you downsize.Stewart SavinSignature Design by Ashley Jarreau Modern Sectional Sleeper SofaSpecsDimensions: 53"D x 83"W x 36"HWeight: 130 lbs5-star reviews: 803Ashley Jarreaus reasonably handsome sleeper sofa earned top marks from our tester Stewart Savin, who calls it a sturdy, no-frills option for anyone on a budget. A pullout-cushion rests atop a hidden steel frame to layout a wider sleep surface (you our your guests will be resting right on top of the couch rather than on an internal mattress). The couch itself is also sheathed in a stain-resistant fabric and works well in places with a limited footprint.Poly & Bark Capa Full-Grain Italian Leather SofaSpecsDimensions: 92"W x 38"D x 28.5"HWeight: 139 lbsWeight limit: 750 lbs5-star reviews: 330With the weathered patina of a baseball glove and the sunken-in vibe of a conversation pit, this couch puts some respect on the name of leather couches in general. So many can scream bachelor pad or look dated in general, but this one has a cool, considered vibe with a deep profile that encourages you to lean back and relax.Acanva Curved Back Velvet SofaSpecsDimensions: 116"W x 62"D x 26.4"HWeight: 197.3 lbsWeight limit: 1,200 lbs5-star reviews: 141This velvet Acanva sofas has a fun Tetris-like formation to it that can be moved around, rearranged, and fussed with depending on your mood thanks to its modular design. The curved back is another nice touch that keeps things modern and fresh. Buy it as a three-seater with an ottoman, as the sectional by itself, or spring for an L-shaped chaise.Best Choice Products Mid Century Modern Boucle LoveseatSpecsDimensions: 77.5"W x 33"D x 30.7"HWeight: 82 lbsWeight limit: 500 lbs5-star reviews: 5Loveseats truly are for lovers, and if you're looking to cozy up in one with a special someone, consider this one in a romantic brick red color. The couch comes in 17 fabrics overall if you want more options, from raspberry velvet to all sorts of boucles, and features a fun split-back design that allows both sides to recline back to sprawl out for a nap, or just one if you want to stay upright while your movie partner lets gravity take over.Stone & Beam Westview LoveseatSpecsDimensions: 79.6"W x 42.1"D x 31.5"HWeight: 112.43 lbsWeight limit: N/A5-star reviews: 328This couch has all the makings of the perfect Amazon buy. The style is ubiquitous and can either act as a focal point to design around or a piece to blend in with its surroundings. The extra deep seats are super comfortable and plush. Plus the brand is directly owned by Amazon, so if anything goes wrong en route to your house, you can fall back on the Everything Stores direct customer service.Chita Mid-Century Modern SofaSpecsDimensions: 73.23"W x 31.89"D x 31.69"HWeight: N/AWeight limit: 500 lbs5-star reviews: 30Midcentury enthusiasts looking for a couch that gives off vintage vibes without the spindly hairpin legs or faux dark woods would be wise to check out this Chita sofa. Done up in a handsome linen and a soothing blue color, it feels like the perfect antithesis to snoozeworthy sofas without much personality.Belffin Modular Sectional SofaSpecsDimensions: 116.6"W x 58.3"D x 33.5"HWeight: 54 lbsWeight limit: N/A5-star reviews: 648We love a U-shaped sectional couch situation for its versatility: Youve got yourself a chaise lounge, a place to snooze, and a perch for reading all in one. This particular design is available in three upholstery colorsgreen and blueif millennial gray is everything you hate.Leisland Couch with Square Armrest and Removable Low-Back Sofa CushionSpecsDimensions: 88.58"W x 33.07"D x 27.5"HWeight: 125 lbsWeight limit: 900 lbs5-star reviews: 172Sometimes you just want a basic couch to sink into thats easy enough to get over the and easy to maintain. The beauty in this design is in the details: The sofa cover is easily detachable, making it a cinch to clean. The non-pilling fabric also means its pet-friendly.Why Buy a Couch on Amazon?Its convenient
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  • Comedian Mohanad AlHattab Invites Us Into His Moody Dubai Villa
    www.architecturaldigest.com
    I wanted a space that would feel cozy and tactile, but also a little bold, says Mohanad AlHattab, the UAE-based Syrian comedian, whose online persona is as colorful as the home he inhabits. The villa, designed by Emirati urban planner-turned-decorator Alamira Noor Bani Hashim, is an ode to balance: a calm, contemporary canvas enlivened with thoughtful color choices and a touch of whimsy.Mohanad AlHattab on the cover of AD Middle Easts Feb/March 2025 issue.AlHattab had heard about Bani Hashim through his friend, the singer Dana Hourani. She was working with Alamira on her own home, and when I saw her work, I thought, this is impeccably done, but its not exactly my style. Still, something clicked, and I reached out. His parents purchased the villa in an upscale Dubai neighborhood in 2014, but the interiors remained unfinished. The space was essentially an empty shell and had a lot of potential, says AlHattab. I extended the dining area, added better connections to the garden, and decided to work with Alamira to bring it to life.A view of the dining area from the living room. I love the way the red tiles energize the space, Bani Hashim says of the design. The key was balancing that with soft, rounded furniture and natural materials.The living room has textured, clay-hued walls and is furnished with a mix of contemporary pieces and custom commissions.According to Bani Hashim, who is known for her refined, minimalist aesthetic, the design process was deeply collaborative. Mohanad has great taste, and even though he had a specific vision, he was open to exploring things outside his comfort zone, she says. We ended up finding a happy middle ground between his boldness and my restraint.I wanted a space where I could really unwindit had to feel like home, says Mohanad AlHattab about his new Dubai villa, that boasts some serious style cred.Anchored by a clean-lined staircase, the entirely wood-paneled hallway is possibly the most dramaticand transformedspace in the villa. Its the first thing you see when you come into the house, and we felt that it needed to be a statement, explains Bani Hashim. I wanted to bring in the wood for a warm, natural element. And whilst moody browns abound, it is the colors refinement and maturity that attracted both AlHattab and Bani Hashim to drench this Dubai Villa in chocolate, not a suggestion by Pantone.Now clad in wood, the staircase previously had a thin metal frame.The layered design scheme is calibrated to gently stimulate rather than overwhelm the senses. Bani Hashim focused on introducing materials and textures that could coexist harmoniously, but with enough piquancy in the mix to stop it from being seen-it-all-before bland. I like the idea of discovering a space slowly, she explains. I want people to notice more details the longer they spend in a room. Nothing should fight for attention, but its also important to have some characterful pause points.In the dining room, for example, the walls are lined with deep-red Moroccan Zellige tiles, and the ceiling is painted in the same almost-Gucci-Ancora-red shade. One side of the space is glazed, suffusing it with light and framing a view of the courtyard garden, which has been thoughtfully landscaped to include plants which echo the hue of the tiles. I wanted the inside to blend seamlessly with the outside, says AlHattab. The garden really ties everything together.A view from the hallway through the dining area to the courtyard garden. Plants with beet-hued foliage create a visual link with the interior.Theres a brave wash of color in the kitchen, too, in the form of mustard-yellow cabinetry which glows brighter or recedes as the light shifts throughout the day. At first, I was worried it might be too much, admits AlHattab. I was flipping out because I didnt consult any of my friends or family members and I thought they might hate it, but I love how it came out in the end.It was important to have the wood grain show through the yellow, says Bani Hashim of the kitchen cabinets. Otherwise it would have looked a little cartoonish.Vessels in different natural materials lend the living room a wabi-sabi vibe.Yellow can be tricky, says Bani Hashim, but we made sure it felt sophisticated and balanced by allowing the wood grain to come through and pairing the cabinets with touches of stainless steel to ground things. The rest of the house echoes this playful yet thoughtful approach to color.A painting by Cristina Canamero hangs on the first-floor landing.The principal bedrooms en-suite bathroom decorated in pearlescent Zellige tiles.In the living room, a custom green rug echoes the garden beyond and a coral-red painting complements the adjoining dining area. The furniture is a mix of contemporary purchases and custom commissions, sprinkled with earthy elements such as roughly hewn wooden bowls and antique stone vessels. Mohanad wanted the space to be comfortable, but also visually engaging, says Bani Hashim. Everything in the living room was chosen to enhance a feeling of serenity. For Mohanad AlHattab, that sense of comfort was paramount. I wanted a space where I could really unwindit had to feel like home, he says. And the couch? Its ridiculously comfortable. I spend a lot of time here, especially after a long day of filming.The principal bedroom with a sleek stainless steel headboard.The lighting scheme throughout the villa helps to heighten the calming atmosphere. Im allergic to overhead lighting, Bani Hashim laughs. We used sconces and soft lighting to create mood without harshness. Its particularly evident in the principal bedroom, where a slubby linen bedspread contrasts with the statement brushed-steel headboard. The goal was to create a sleek, masculine space but it also needed to be inviting, adds the designer. It was a challenge, but we made it work.This home is a perfect backdrop for what I do: every single design detail is intentional, so, no matter where I place the camera, its going to look nice.A high-gloss folded paravent-style headboard adds drama to a guest bedroom.As a content creator, AlHattab has cultivated a loyal following with laugh-out-loud-funny videos that satirize social media trends. This home is a perfect backdrop for what I do: every single design detail is intentional, so, no matter where I place the camera, its going to look nice, he says. I started making content as a hobby, and now its become my life: I just hit a million followers on Instagram this week. I like that its such a neat number, and Im in my neat eraespecially in this house.This home is a perfect backdrop for what I do: every single design detail is intentional, so, no matter where I place the camera, its going to look nice, says the Syrian content creator about his cinematic Dubai villa.
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  • AI-generated doctors are duping TikTok users with fake medical advice
    nypost.com
    Does an apple a day keep the AI away?Creators are calling bull on alleged deepfake doctors scamming social media users with unfounded medical advice.On TikTok, one search yields dozens of videos of women rattling off phrases like, 13 years as a coochie doctor and nobody believes me when I tell them this, before dishing so-called health secrets for perky breasts, snatched stomachs, chiseled jawlines and balanced pH levels.But the so-called experts arent even real. Theyre completely computer-generated by artificial intelligence. Eagle-eyed TikTokkers have called out alleged AI-generated doctors who claim to be experts in the medical field and offer nontraditional advice. TikTok / @locks_healthSome of the so-called doctors might claim to be experts in other fields diet, plastic surgery, breasts, butts, stomach and more and offer advice to cure or remedy viewers ailments or health concerns. One account has posted dozens of clips featuring the same woman, who claimed to have spent 13 years as a coochie and butt doctor. A different account features the exact same woman also spewing unfounded medical advice under the guise of being an alleged coochie doctor.Media Matters reported that the same gaggle of alleged deepfake characters have also appeared as salespeople for wellness products or claimed to have connections to Hollywood to dish insider gossip.The discrepancies are enough to raise a few eyebrows.One search for these informational clips yields dozens of results, and navigating to the users pages shows multiple videos utilizing the same creator claiming to be a butt, booty or coochie doctor, as well as a dieitian and plastic surgeon. TikTok / @locks_healthOne user claimed that the AI personalities come from the app Captions, which offers an generative AI tool for online videos. TikTok / @locks_healthJavon Ford, the creator of his namesake beauty brand, recently revealed that the AI-generated personalities can be manipulated on an app called Captions, which bills itself as a tool to generate and edit talking AI videos. The company claims that it has 100,000 daily users of the app, with over 3 million videos produced every month.But Ford called the service deeply insidious.You might have noticed a few of these creators on your For You page. None of them are real, he warned. @javonford16 Replying to @ladolcedana #hillmantok #education #skincare #haircare original sound Javon Ford Beauty In a TikTok video, he scrolled through an exhaustive list of AI avatars that users can choose from such as a woman named Violet, who can be seen in many of the coochie doctor clips demonstrating how a script can be written and the avatar will regurgitate it. Aghast users called the technology very dangerous, while some weighed the option of ditching social media altogether due to the scary reality of realistic deepfakes.Ive seen Violet so many times, one shocked viewer commented, while another agreed that theyve seen her say shes a dentist and a nurse.So thats actually scary! Now that you point it out, I can see through it, but w/o the warning, I may have fallen for it! someone else admitted.In an attempt to educate viewers, creators have highlighted the ways to determine if the person on your screen is real or AI-generated as deepfakes proliferate online.The suspect content creators spew medical advice on various accounts, where they pose as doctors in different fields. TikTok / @brokegirlguidesFord, for one, called out the mouth movements, calling them uncanny. He noticed that the lips did not sync with the audio, which he said is the first red flag.Its 2025, he said in a TikTok. Nobody should be having audio video lag issues.He added that their claims that a product or natural remedy works better than whatever is commonly used should also raise alarms. Ford also advised looking at the account owners profile to see how many videos feature the so-called doctor, who has someone been a gynecologist, proctologist and more over a mere 13 years.My, my, theyve had a productive career, he joked. @mr.paidsocial Replying to @SilisaB #greenscreenvideo #greenscreen LEARN HOW TO SPOT Ai The eyes The head movements The phrasing and pauses And the whole picture just gives off this unreal feeling. #ai #aivideo #aicontentcreator #aiinfluencer original sound Caleb | Ads | Ai | Automation One user named Caleb Kruse, an expert in paid media, pointed out the telltale signs of an AI avatar in a previous video on TikTok, using another creators content as an example. The woman later confirmed that, while she is, in fact a real person, the video in question was created with AI by a company who had asked to clone her likeness.In addition to the unrealistic mouth movements, Kruse highlighted the womans eyes, awkward head movements and overall vibe of the video or feeling that its not real.The eyes are too big when they shouldnt be theyre not always reflecting exactly how a normal person might react when they say things, he explained.Third, is the cadence, how she speaks, how the words between sentences flow, he continued. Theres sometimes these weird pauses that you wouldnt normally say.The callouts were a wake-up call for his followers.This should be illegal, one dismayed viewer commented.It looks so real its horrifying, another chimed in.
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  • Tesla Stock Falls for 7th Week in a Row
    finance.yahoo.com
    Nous, Yahoo, faisons partie de la famille de marques Yahoo. Lorsque vous utilisez nos sites et applications, nous utilisons des cookies pour:vous fournir nos sites et applications;authentifier les utilisateurs, appliquer des mesures de scurit, empcher les spams et les abus; etmesurer votre utilisation de nos sites et applications. Si vous cliquez sur Accepter tout, nos partenaires, dont 238 font partie du Cadre de transparence de consentement de lIAB Europe, et nous-mme stockerons et/ou utiliserons galement des informations sur un appareil (en dautres termes, utiliserons des cookies), et nous servirons des donnes de golocalisation prcise et dautres donnes personnelles telles que ladresseIP et les donnes de navigation et de recherche, pour fournir des publicits et des contenus personnaliss, mesurer les publicits et les contenus, tudier les audiences et dvelopper des services. Si vous ne souhaitez pas que nos partenaires et nousmmes utilisions des cookies et vos donnes personnelles pour ces motifs supplmentaires, cliquez sur Refuser tout. Si vous souhaitez personnaliser vos choix, cliquez sur Grer les paramtres de confidentialit. Vous pouvez rvoquer votre consentement ou modifier vos choix tout moment en cliquant sur les liens Paramtres de confidentialit et des cookies ou Tableau de bord sur la confidentialit prsents sur nos sites et dans nos applications. Dcouvrez comment nous utilisons vos donnes personnelles dans notre Politique de confidentialit et notre Politique concernant les cookies.
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  • Opinion: The Best Tony Hawk Game Is Grinding Back, And I Can Only Hold My Breath
    www.nintendolife.com
    Image: ActivisionWhen Tony Hawks Pro Skater 1 + 2 launched, I only had one thought on my mind: This is awesome, but can we please get 3 + 4?I had dabbled with the first two entries back in the day, but it was only when Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 3 launched in 2001 that I properly got hooked on the series. It felt perfect, and despite classics like Metroid Prime and The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker sitting higher on my best GameCube' list, theres no other game I sunk more hours into than THPS 3.Given the recent disappointment surrounding the changes to THPS 4 in the upcoming remake, Im going to cast that game aside for a moment and just focus on the third entry. Heck, even if developer Iron Galaxy retained absolutely everything from THPS 4 and delivered a near 1:1 remake, it still sits just below its predecessor in my personal series ranking.Subscribe to Nintendo Life on YouTube798kFew games feel like products of their time as much as Tony Hawk 3. Sure, if youre reasonably knowledgeable, you could look at any games stylings and production values and take a decent stab at when it was made, but THPS 3 is a snapshot of the early 00s like no other. The music, the visuals, the rebellious undertones... It launched right when Jackass was really beginning to gain momentum on MTV, and you could feel that in the new additions.Unlike the previous two entries, which saw you traversing around levels on your lonesome, THPS 3 featured pedestrians for the first time. Challenges like Bury the Bully in the Canada level and Stop the Pickpockets in the Airport felt like theyd taken direct inspiration from the exploits of beloved idiots like Steve-O and Bam Margera (who, sadly, isnt in the new remake), and it made the game feel like a ridiculous combination of Skating X Jackass sim.It gave the series the boost it really needed, in my eyes. Im no skateboarder in real life, but I would bet that most gain pleasure from skating with others. Its one of the most sociable sports imaginable, and I would always see kids at my local skatepark racing down halfpipes before sitting with friends and listening to Blink-182 and Slipknot. It was a vibe, yknow? And THPS 3 captured it wonderfully.Images: ActivisionSpeaking of music, the game also introduced me to bands that remain some of my absolute favourites to this very day. Bodyjars 'Not the Same became the song of 2001 and I can't tell you how many times I listened to it in the months following the games release. Not only that, but youve got The Ramones, AFI, Guttermouth, Alien Ant Farm, and freakin Motrhead, for goodness sake. Look, Ill always maintain that Ace of Spades pales in comparison to Overkill, but its an absolute banger of a song, regardless.Bodyjar and Motrhead have been confirmed to return for the remake, so even if Iron Galaxy hasnt managed to get every song, Ill be one happy chappy.Its going to be a bit odd playing a remake of THPS 3, truth be told. When I played 1 + 2, it admittedly lost that product of its time vibe that makes the original games so memorable to me. I worry that even with the music and the Jackass-inspired challenges, THPS 3 on Switch may feel similar. If it can recapture at least some of that joy I felt in my youth, though, Activision and Iron Galaxy are on to a winner.And if not? Maybe Not the Same will take on a whole different meaning.Subscribe to Nintendo Life on YouTube798kDid you play Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 3 back in the day? Which entry in the series is your favourite? Leave a comment with your thoughts, memories, and more down below. Pop shuvit up your...Sick jams, dudeAs ranked by youRelated GamesSee AlsoShare:00 Nintendo Lifes resident horror fanatic, when hes not knee-deep in Resident Evil and Silent Hill lore, Ollie likes to dive into a good horror book while nursing a lovely cup of tea. He also enjoys long walks and listens to everything from TOOL to Chuck Berry. Hold on there, you need to login to post a comment...Related ArticlesNintendo Confirms Removal Of Switch Online SNES GameSuper Soccer will "no longer be available"Pokmon Scarlet & Violet: Mystery Gift Codes ListAll the current Pokmon Scarlet and Violet Mystery Gift codesNintendo Discounts Several Games On Switch For MAR10 Day (North America)"I'm a slasher... of prices!"Talking Point: What We Expect From The Switch 2 DirectIn four weeks' time...
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  • Habitat 67 by Safdie Architects: A Visionary Experiment in Modular Housing
    archeyes.com
    Habitat 67 Exterior View | Timothy HursleyHabitat 67, designed by Moshe Safdie for the 1967 Montreal World Expo, was conceived as an alternative to conventional high-rise and suburban housing. Developed initially as Safdies masters thesis at McGill University, the project sought to integrate the advantages of suburban homesprivate gardens, natural light, and ventilationwithin a high-density urban framework.Habitat 67 Technical InformationArchitects1-12: Safdie ArchitectsLocation: Montreal, Quebec, CanadaArea: 29,700 m | 320,000 Sq. Ft.Project Year: 1966 1967Photographs: Timothy Hursley, Unsplash Users: See Caption DetailsI was convinced that within a decade, every city would have a Habitat, and they would become ubiquitous. Moshe Safdie 13Habitat 67 PhotographsAerial View | Timothy HursleyHabitat 67 | Green Prophet via UnsplashFacade | Timothy-HursleyVolumes | Philippe Collard via UnsplashFacade | Ally Griffin via UnsplashFacade Detail | Lukas Martello via UnsplashModular Construction and Structural SystemThe design was based on prefabricated modular construction, with 365 concrete units stacked to create 158 residences. Each dwelling was designed to have outdoor space and varied spatial configurations, distinguishing it from typical repetitive housing blocks. Habitat 67 faced cost, maintenance, and large-scale feasibility challenges despite its influence on later housing experiments. Habitat 67s construction method relied on prefabrication, aiming for efficiency and adaptability. A dedicated on-site factory produced the 600-square-foot concrete modules, which were then hoisted by crane and post-tensioned to form the stepped structure. Each module functioned as a load-bearing element, eliminating the need for additional structural columns.The project included 15 housing typologies, ranging from one-bedroom to four-bedroom units. Each residence incorporated a private terrace to provide natural light and outdoor access.The modular system extended to the interiors, with pre-manufactured components such as fiberglass bathrooms, standardized kitchens, and plastic-framed windows. However, while prefabrication was intended to reduce costs, the complexity of stacking and reinforcing the modules increased material and labor expenses, preventing replication on a broader scale.The structural system relied on high-tension cables, post-tensioning, and welding, ensuring stability but adding complexity to construction. These technical challenges and high maintenance requirements contributed to Hbitat 67s status as a one-time experiment rather than a scalable housing solution.Spatial Organization and CirculationUnlike conventional apartment buildings with stacked floor plates and internal corridors, Habitat 67 introduced a network of external walkways and terraces, creating a multi-level circulation system.Three elevator cores provide vertical movement, but rather than stopping at every floor, they serve every fourth level, leading to elevated pedestrian streets. These streets function as shared circulation paths, providing direct access to multiple units and reinforcing the idea of an interconnected residential system.The staggered stacking of modules allows light and air to reach each unit, avoiding the uniformity and repetition typical of high-rise housing. However, this irregular configuration increases structural complexity, requiring extensive reinforcement and limiting adaptability.Over the years, residents have modified their units, adapting the original design to contemporary living needs. The project remains a protected heritage site, leading to ongoing discussions about the balance between preservation and functional updates.Legacy and Contemporary ApplicationsHabitat 67 remains an essential reference in modular construction and prefabricated urban housing. While its design principles have influenced later projects, the economic and technical challenges it faced highlight the difficulties of applying modular construction at scale.Similar concepts have been explored in projects such as Sky Habitat in Singapore and Habitat Qinhuangdao in China, both of which incorporate stacked modular units with outdoor spaces. Advances in 3D printing, parametric design, and prefabrication technology continue to address some of the limitations encountered in Hbitat 67.Habitat 67 PlansSketch | Moshe Safdie via McGill UniversitySection | Moshe Safdie via McGill UniversityAxonometric View | Moshe Safdie via McGill UniversityDetails | Moshe Safdie via McGill UniversityHabitat 67 Image GalleryAbout Safdie ArchitectsSafdie Architects is an internationally recognized architecture and urban design firm founded by Moshe Safdie. Known for its innovative approach to high-density housing, cultural institutions, and public spaces, the firm emphasizes human-centered design, prefabrication, and integration with nature. With projects spanning North America, Asia, and the Middle East, Safdie Architects has shaped contemporary architecture through landmark works such as Hbitat 67, Marina Bay Sands, and Jewel Changi Airport.Credits and Additional NotesArchitect: Moshe SafdieClient: Government of CanadaStructural Engineers: Affleck, Desbarats, Dimakopoulos, Lebensold, SiseMechanical & Electrical Engineers: Greenspoon, Freedlander & DunneContractor: Parkin Architects LimitedHeritage Status: Recognized as a National Heritage Building in CanadaTotal Site Area: 6.04 hectares (14.9 acres)Total Floor Area: Approximately 29,700 m (320,000 ft)Number of Modules: 365 precast concrete unitsNumber of Residences: 158 apartmentsHousing Typologies: 15 different configurations (ranging from 1-bedroom to 4-bedroom units)Module Dimensions: 5.3m 3.6m 2.7m (~600 ft per module)If Walls Could Speak: My Life in Architecture byMoshe SafdieMoshe Safdie byPaul Goldberger,Michael Sorkin,Peter G. Rowe
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  • Fox News AI Newsletter: Helping DOGE cut waste
    www.foxnews.com
    Recommended By Fox News Staff Fox News Published March 8, 2025 8:30am EST White House Senior Advisor to the President and Tesla and SpaceX CEO Elon Musk departs the U.S. Capitol Building on March 5, 2025 in Washington, DC (Andrew Harnik/Getty Images) Welcome to Fox News Artificial Intelligence newsletter with the latest AI technology advancements.IN TODAYS NEWSLETTER:- How AI can help Trump and DOGE cut waste, CEO explains- Taco Bell shows off AI 'coach' following massive digital tech investment- Tax scam alert: How to protect yourself and your tax refundTARGETING WASTE: Albert Invent CEO Nick Talken shared how his artificial intelligence platform saves thousands of scientists time and money on "Mornings with Maria," saying government can also benefit from the technology.GRAB A 'BYTE': It was a big week for Yum Brands' Taco Bell as executives from the fast-food giant held its annual Live Ms LIVE event in New York City, showcased new labor-saving technology, and announced an investment of $1 billion into digital and technology. An exterior view of a Taco Bell restaurant on Telegraph Avenue in Oakland, California on Friday, March 15, 2024. (DWS for Fox News Digital)AVOID IRS SCAMS: Tax season is upon us, and while many of you are preparing to file your returns, it's crucial to be aware of the ever-evolving world of tax scams. Scam written on tax forms (Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson)GOLDEN VOICE: A producer for the Oscar-winning film, "The Brutalist," is defending the productions use of artificial intelligence. D.J. Gugenheim at the 97th Oscars held at the Dolby Theatre on March 02, 2025 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Earl Gibson III/Penske Media via Getty Images) (Earl Gibson III/Penske Media via Getty Images)FOLLOW FOX NEWS ON SOCIAL MEDIASIGN UP FOR OUR OTHER NEWSLETTERSDOWNLOAD OUR APPSWATCH FOX NEWS ONLINEFox News GoSTREAM FOX NATIONFox NationStay up to date on the latest AI technology advancements and learn about the challenges and opportunities AI presents now and for the future with Fox Newshere. This article was written by Fox News staff.
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  • This $200 Motorola has no business being this good for the price
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    The Moto G (2025) defies budget phone expectations with its impressive multi-day battery life and a surprisingly capable camera.
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  • This ultraportable Asus laptop gives the M4 MacBook Air a run for its money - and it looks great
    www.zdnet.com
    ZDNET's key takeaways The Asus Zenbook A14 is available now, with configurations starting for $899. Asus' new ultraportable is a fantastic balance of innovation and value with a brilliant OLED display, competitive hardware, and a satisfying physical form. While its use case is clearly defined, the laptop has its limits when it comes to high-end performance. more buying choices When Asus officially announced the Zenbook A14 at CES this year, I wasn't the only one to be low-key enamored with it. It's a great laptop in its own right, but it stands out as a successful balancing act between performance and affordability while hitting all the right notes that consumers care about.Made of Asus' proprietary ceraluminum material, the Zenbook A14 almost feels like a prototype model that's empty inside, as it's exceedingly light at just 2.1 pounds (for reference, the 13-inch MacBook Air is 2.7 pounds). When you set it down, the device opens easily with the lift of a single finger, revealing the brilliant OLED display.Also: I tested Asus' dual-screen laptop, and it sparked my creativity in the best wayAsus committed to a neutral-forward aesthetic with the A14. The brand messaging features muted tones and quiet, sophisticated imagery punctuated by natural motifs, and, overall, it works to form a cohesive identity. details View at Best Buy This aesthetic highlights Asus' determination to deliver a cohesive brand message while balancing innovation and cost. For example, the display on the Zenbook A14 looks good right out of the box. It's bright, crisp, and efficient. But closer inspection reveals that it's not as premium a display as you'd find on, say, Asus' ProArt P16.The display is framed by plastic bezels carefully designed not to look cheap, but again this isn't the ProArt. Additionally, the panel over the FHD display has some slight warping that can give a funhouse mirror effect when you catch your reflection on the glossy surface. Kyle Kucharski/ZDNETOnce the display is turned on, however, whatever jumpscare you just saw is quickly forgotten, as it delivers a brilliant image: contrast is crisp, colors are vivid, and it's bright, at 600 nits and a full HD+ (1920 x 1200) resolution that pairs well with the speedy performance.Also: I tried Asus' dual-screen laptop, and it revitalized my workflow in the best waySpeaking of performance, let's discuss the tech that powers this device. Asus again focused on balance, pairing the base-level Qualcomm Snapdragon X processor with the 32GB RAM configuration and the slightly faster Snapdragon X Plus with the lower-end, 16GB RAM configuration.This balancing act results in a slightly unintuitive pricing structure: the laptop with the higher-end processor is cheaper ($899) as it comes with half the memory (which is what you're really paying for). The version with more RAM and the lower-end Snapdragon X processor starts at $1,099.The difference between the two processors is ultimately not that massive, both are eight-core chips, but the Snapdragon X chip is limited to 3.0 GHz clock speed, putting a performance cap on this laptop.That cap is fine because this device isn't made to tackle intensive workloads. It's for the modern professional who lives in the cloud, works remotely, and values a nice display.Also: This mechanical keyboard I tested works just as well for work as it does for playThat being said, the performance is solid. It's a fast laptop: it boots quickly, loads apps swiftly, and navigates the web without lag. It runs silent and cool, generating almost no heat -- even with the slim form factor.In our benchmarking tests, Qualcomm's Snapdragon X processor performed better than I expected against more premium devices with Intel's Core Ultra 7 "Lunar Lake" chip, particularly in its higher-end sibling, the Zenbook S14, and Dell's XPS 13 in multi-core performance. The processor even surpassed the latter in single-core performance.Comparing this laptop's numbers to HP's OmniBook X with the Snapdragon X Elite, for example, suggests the device is outclassed at the higher end of performance but is highly optimized for everyday tasks and able to deliver a faster, more efficient experience in those use cases.Cinebench 24 MCGeekbench 6.2.2 SCGeekbench 6.2.2 MCZenbook A14 (Snapdragon X)541213310624Zenbook S 14 (Intel Lunar Lake)481274811050Dell XPS 13 (Intel Lunar Lake)552274311005HP Omnibook X (Snapdragon X Elite)470232613160The laptop's strong performance is allied to an enjoyable physical form factor. The keyboard is fantastic -- it's one of the most comfortable laptop keyboards I've used. I make this claim without exaggeration and note its success isn't due to anything particularly expensive or high-end. Asus just hit the mark when balancing design and cost.Also: This 13-inch Dell laptop lives rent-free in my head for its brilliant display and batteryThe keys are smooth and matte, with a slick texture that borders on ASMR. I also love how the laptop's ceramic body is fingerprint-resistant and easy to clean, even when splashed in the kitchen or coffee shop.For remote or hybrid workers who move from place to place, the laptop also features the right number of ports (an HDMI, two USB-Cs, and one USB-A) to handle whatever accessories you carry in tow or to charge the battery. I'm (sort of) kidding, but that leads me to my last point. Kyle Kucharski/ZDNETHands down, the best part of this laptop is the outstanding battery life. Asus advertises up to 32 hours on a single charge. Although that's the top end of the estimation, it's not far off from what you can expect with everyday use. During my testing, a day's work in the office didn't take me down past 50%.The Snapdragon X processor reduces power consumption to a trickle when it's not in use. If you do need juice, the A14 charges quickly, reaching close to 75% after just an hour of charging. This capability translates to a laptop that can last a couple of days' work on one charge, even if that includes multiple video calls.Also: I tested Asus' 27-inch TV-monitor hybrid for two weeks - and can't stop thinking about itI'll also mention a few of the drawbacks of this laptop (but there aren't many). The first is that the Qualcomm Adreno GPU on this system is not designed for high-end gaming. Sure, it can certainly handle casual games. But this isn't a device made for the latest FPS.Also, the display, while it looks great, is still capped at a 60Hz refresh rate, which keeps the battery (and price point) low but further limits any aspirations of high-end gaming. Ultimately, while the Zenbook A14 is competitively priced, this is not a $1,500 laptop.ZDNET's buying adviceThe Zenbook A14 has a coherent identity: it's a lightweight, aesthetic machine for the modern professional, effortlessly mobile in both form factor and battery life, but trades some raw power for all that endurance. That being said, the Snapdragon X processor punches well above its weight and competes handily with chips that are, on paper, more powerful.Because of its cohesive identity, how well it balances innovation and value, and the hardware performance, the Zenbook A14 is one of the best laptops I've reviewed in the past year and one I'd strongly recommend as long as its strengths align with your needs.To top it all off, the starting price of $899 is very competitive -- potentially even disruptive -- if Asus succeeds in selling this laptop's brand story in a way that positions it as an alternative to other ultraportable, such as Apple's MacBook Air.Featured reviews
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