ZDNET's key takeaways The Pixel 9 is Google's latest baseline flagship phone, with prices starting at $800. It comes with the new Tensor G4 processor, an updated design, a bigger battery, and a slightly higher asking price. The hardware improvements over last year's model are relatively small. more buying choices At Amazon, the 256GB Google Pixel 9 is on sale for $649, a $250 discount. This deal applies to all color options except Peony (pink).I had a chance to attend the Made by Google event back in August 2024, and after the keynote wrapped up, I was more excited to go hands-on with the baseline version of the Pixel 9 than the Pro or the Pro XL. Why? Because the Pixel 9's accessibility makes it a fascinating device, and one I recommend for a handful of reasons.Also: I changed 10 settings on my Pixel phone to significantly improve the user experienceI'm spoiling this review right at the top, but it's true. Google's latest entry-level flagship, the Pixel 9, is here, with prices starting at $799. Even though its hardware is a minor improvement over the Pixel 8, it's an impressive phone overall. It offers a new design, slightly upgraded performance, slightly better cameras, a slightly bigger battery, and a host of new AI features.Google has positioned the Pixel 9 as the default Android alternative to the iPhone 16, partly because it looks like one. Google gave the entire Pixel 9 family flat sides with rounded corners, which makes it look like something from a design lab in Cupertino. The good news is that it makes these phones look and feel great. details View at Best Buy In fact, they're my favorite-looking Pixel phones yet. The Pixel 9 feels especially unique while still offering a premium feel that's blissfully cold to the touch when you pick it up. The sides are aluminum, while the front and back feature Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2. The whole thing is IP68-rated for water and dust resistance, and it's just the right size for use with one hand. Max Buondonno/ZDNETAnother characteristic of the Pixel is its nice display, and the Pixel 9 definitely has one. It features a 6.3-inch Actua display that is a tenth of an inch bigger than the Pixel 8. The sharp 2424x1080 resolution, OLED panel, and 120Hz dynamic refresh rate give the Pixel 9 exceptional visuals, whether you're just reading email or watching your favorite movie. This year, the screen can reach way up to 2,700 nits of brightness, making it one of the brightest Android phones you can buy.Also: I replaced my Pixel 9 Pro XL with the 9a for a month - and it was pretty dang closeAlso, its performance feels better. Powered by the new Tensor G4 processor, 12GB of RAM, and 128GB or 256GB of storage, the Pixel 9 is a screamer. It's one of the most responsive Android phones I've used all year, and that's just with the standard version of this phone.The cameras are also impressive. Google kept the same 50MP main camera as last year but swapped the old 12MP ultra-wide for a new 48MP 123-degree camera. Photos are simply stunning on this phone, and Google's post-processing algorithms do a great job of retaining details and contrast. Video quality is also very good, especially with the company's Video Boost technology. This phone can easily rival any device that costs $200+ more. Max Buondonno/ZDNETIf there's a downside to the hardware, it's the inclusion of the lower-quality 10.5MP selfie camera, whereas the Pro phones get a new 42MP camera. There's also an extra telephoto camera on the Pro model, so you won't get the same zoom quality on the regular Pixel 9.Regarding this phone's AI features, Google has jammed quite a bit into the Pixel 9. Not only does it ship with the company's Gemini chatbot out of the box, but thanks to the Tensor G4 processor, it also comes with Gemini Live, so you can have real-life conversations with it.Also: I found a physical keyboard for my Pixel 9 Pro that isn't a jokeIt requires a Google One AI Premium plan, but you'll get one for free if you buy a Pixel 9. I've asked it numerous questions that were similar to web queries ("What's the best place to live near New York City that's relatively affordable," "How many stars are in the sky -- wait, in the galaxy?") and it answered them all with ease -- even with speech interruptions. It's in the early stages, but it's exciting technology that could change how we use our phones.You also get features like Add Me, which allows you to take a picture of your friends, then have them take a picture of you in the same place, and merge the two so no one's left out. I've played around with it during my testing, which worked surprisingly well. There are also some nice updates to Magic Editor for framing your photos. Max Buondonno/ZDNETGoogle also included two new AI-powered apps on the Pixel 9 series: Pixel Screenshots and Pixel Studio. With the former, you can organize your screenshots and search through them with AI prompts, allowing you to easily reference information like Wi-Fi passwords or recipes. Meanwhile, the latter lets you generate images on the fly and customize them with text, stickers, and other effects. I've enjoyed using both apps in my limited testing time, but I'll need to play with them over the long run to see whether they're worth it.Also: The best Google Pixel phones to buy in 2025I found battery life to be quite good. There's a 4,700mAh cell inside that can last all day on a charge and then some, which means you won't need to worry about this phone's battery after a long day. Google includes 45W charging support on the Pixel 9 series, which is awesome, but you'll need to buy a separate wall adapter to take advantage of it. In addition, there's 15W wireless charging (not Qi2, notably) and 5W reverse wireless charging called "Battery Share."ZDNET's buying adviceIf your budget is $800, it's hard not to recommend Google's Pixel 9, especially while it's on sale at $250 off. Sure, the Samsung Galaxy S24 is a tough competitor, but I actually think this is the better buy. It gives you access to some useful new AI features, and you get all the perks of the Pixel experience, like excellent software, display quality, and cameras. The Pixel 9 Pro and Pixel 9 Pro XL models may be flashier, but the baseline version of Google's flagship phone should not be overlooked. This article was originally published on August 22, 2024, and was updated on June 6, 2025 What are the tariffs in the US? The recent US tariffs on imports from countries like China, Vietnam, and India aim to boost domestic manufacturing but are likely to drive up prices on consumer electronics. Products like smartphones, laptops, and TVs may become more expensive as companies rethink global supply chains and weigh the cost of shifting production.Smartphones are among the most affected by the new US tariffs, with devices imported from China and Vietnam facing steep duties that could raise retail prices by 20% or more. Brands like Apple and Google, which rely heavily on Asian manufacturing, may either pass these costs on to consumers or absorb them at the expense of profit margins. The tariffs could also lead to delays in product launches or shifts in where and how phones are made, forcing companies to diversify production to countries with more favorable trade conditions. Show more Featured reviews

The launch of a new console is always exciting, because new hardware means new software to play on it. For the Switch 2, Nintendo is changing tactics with the release cadence of new games, as the console will launch with just a single first-party exclusive instead of several all at once. The launch lineup will still be bolstered by third-party support, and the company has several more exclusives on the way, but these are arriving throughout the rest of 2025 and 2026.For this list, we're looking at the games you'll only find on the Switch 2 and the ones that offer new content exclusively for the system. We're skipping Switch games being upgraded for the Switch 2--like The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom--or titles that'll be available on both Switch and Switch 2, like Pokemon Legends: Z-A and Metroid Prime 4: Beyond.We're expecting a library of Switch 2 games that'll stand tall next to some of the best across multiple Nintendo eras, and we'll be listing every known and new release as they're revealed. Mario Kart WorldRelease date: June 5, 2025The marquee title for the Switch 2, Mario Kart World is the first mainline entry in the series since the release of Mario Kart 8 Deluxe in 2017, which was a port of 2014's Mario Kart 8 for the Wii U. Mario Kart World looks like it has the potential to push the series to new heights, as it offers colorful visuals, a stacked roster, and courses set inside of a massive open-world environment that can be freely explored.Where to buyWalmartTargetBest Buy Nintendo Switch 2 Welcome TourRelease date: June 5, 2025The Nintendo Switch 2 will be loaded with several new features, and Nintendo Switch 2 Welcome Tour looks like a fine--and fun!--way to learn about them. The caveat here is that this tech demo has a $10 entrance fee, but if you don't mind paying for it, this will likely be a great way to explore the new features on this console. See on the Nintendo eShop Kirby Air RidersRelease date: 2025The Kirby Air Ride sequel that fans have been waiting years for, this new game is being directed by the pink blob's creator, Masahiro Sakurai. Kirby Air Ride on the GameCube was beloved for its fast-paced racing action in multiplayer sessions, and while we don't know too much about the new game yet, we're hoping to see some of that classic Kirby magic when the cute fella arrives on Switch 2. See on the Nintendo eShop Donkey Kong BananzaRelease date: July 17, 2025The next Donkey Kong adventure combines traditional platforming fun with destruction, as Nintendo's favorite ape will be able to smash his way through various environment. You'll be able to tear off chunks of terrain to hurl at enemies and punch your way into subterranean worlds to uncover secrets lurking beneath the surface.Where to buyWalmartTargetGameStop Fast FusionRelease date: June 5We haven't seen a brand-new F-Zero game in many years, but Fast Fusion might just be the next best thing. A very fast anti-gravity racing game that looks like it was also inspired by Wipeout, Fast Fusion is the fourth game in the Fast series and a sequel to 2017's Fast RMX. See on the Nintendo eShop Hyrule Warriors: Age of ImprisonmentRelease date: 2025This isn't the first time that Koei Tecmo and Nintendo have teamed up, and like its previous effort, you can expect this game to combine the world and characters of The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom with the gameplay of Dynasty Warriors. Narratively, Age of Imprisonment serves as a prequel to Tears of the Kingdom as it focuses on the "Imprisoning War" that set the stage for that game. See on the Nintendo eShop Survival KidsRelease date: June 5, 2025The original Survival Kids game was released all the way back in 1999, and while it wasn't a smash-hit, critics at the time did praise it for its clever blend of ideas inspired by the likes of Pokemon and The Legend of Zelda. The sequel once again follows a group of kids stranded on an island and forced to fend for themselves, but this time, the focus is on co-op gameplay, puzzle-solving, and crafting. See on the Nintendo eShop Bravely Default: Flying Fairy HD RemasterRelease date: June 5First released on the Nintendo 3DS, Bravely Default: Flying Fairy HD Remaster on Switch 2 will feature some nifty upgrades on that system. The remaster has improved graphics, but in terms of content, this version also offers a redesigned user interface, the ability to fast-forward through certain scenes, quality-of-life upgrades, and two types of mouse-controlled minigames.Where to buyWalmartBest BuyGameStopTarget Yakuza 0: Director's CutRelease date: June 5Considered to be the best game in the Yakuza series, Yakuza 0: Director's Cut is a two-fisted tour through Tokyo that tells a hard-hitting story. For its Switch 2 release, the game is being updated with new cutscenes designed to give deeper insight into key incidents and character backstories, an English dub has been added, and there's a new online mode called Red Light Raid. For now, it looks like Yakuza 0: Director's Cut has only been confirmed for Switch 2, but we wouldn't be surprised if it makes the leap to other platforms after a period of timed exclusivity.Where to buyAmazonWalmart Super Mario Party Jamboree + Jamboree TV: Switch 2 EditionRelease date: July 24While the game did launch for in October 2024, Super Mario Party Jamboree + Jamboree TV: Switch 2 Edition will offer more than just improved graphics and frame rates. This new edition is packed with new modes and minigames, making this the ultimate version of the party game.Where to buyWalmartTargetGameStop Release date: August 28In case you missed it when it first came out on Switch, Kirby and the Forgotten Land was a terrific adventure starring the adorable Nintendo icon. On Switch 2, the game is getting a graphical upgrade and exclusive adventure called Star-Crossed World and all-new Mouthful Modes to wield in battle.Where to buyWalmartTargetGameStop Drag x DriveRelease date: Summer 2025If there's going to be a showcase game for the Switch 2's new Joy-Con 2 mouse controls, it might just be Drag x Drive. Details on it are slim for now, but from what we've seen so far, Drag x Drive will let you put your hoop-shooting skills to the test while you race around the arena in a wheelchair. The catch here is that the game makes heavy use of the Switch 2's mouse controls to move around and score points. See on the Nintendo eShop The DuskbloodsRelease date: 2026With Elden Ring Nightreign proving to be an enjoyable showcase of souls-like multiplayer, we're excited to see what From Software has in store for Switch 2 players when The Duskbloods eventually hits the scene. The studio has shared more details on the game since it was first revealed, like how players can choose from a cast of "over a dozen" characters that can be customized, the setting for the game, and how progression works. Interestingly, The Duskbloods was originally pitched for the Switch, but plans changed after Nintendo spoke to developer From Software about the Switch 2 console. See on the Nintendo eShop

Honey Don’t! opens in theaters August 22. This review is based on a screening at the 2025 Cannes Film Festival.Ethan Coen’s desert detective comedy Honey Don’t! is a step down from what was already a disappointing departure. When older Coen brother Joel branched out from the duo’s acclaimed collaborations, it led to Shakespearean grandeur. There’s no shame in going a more playful route, as the younger Coen and co-writer Tricia Cooke did with Honey Don’t! and its predecessor, Drive-Away Dolls. But their second film in their planned “lesbian B-movie trilogy” is flimsy and insubstantial. It reads like a brisk, star-studded romp on paper: The plot concerns small-town California private eye Honey O'Donahue (Margaret Qualley), a consummate professional summoned to investigate the suspicious roadside death of a woman who had called her not 24 hours prior. Coen and Cooke zoom out to give us the lay of the land before agonizingly connecting each dot, between the deceased’s sexually exploitative church leader, Reverend Drew Devlin (Chris Evans), Honey’s fractured family life, and her advances towards alluring policewoman MG Falcone (Aubrey Plaza).Each of these subplots has its own subplots that drag Honey Don’t! further away from its mystery, including Reverend Drew’s involvement in international drug trade and Honey’s teenage niece Corrine (Talia Ryder) confiding in her about an abusive relationship. Honey occasionally follows up on leads, moving languidly between several matter-of-fact exchanges with no real emotional trajectory. The dialogue is delivered so flatly that you might struggle to differentiate the dramatic and comedic material in any given scene. Take, for instance, Honey’s many conversations with her doting, capable assistant Spider (Gabby Beans), which feel like they’re supposed to be banter between two quick-witted women, but result in awkward dead air for extended periods. The movie’s parched, dusty setting extends infinitely in establishing shots, but the characters’ interactions feel like that, too.What’s more, none of Honey’s sleuthing ever turns up useful answers. Notable discoveries and plot turns usually fall in her lap, and the story’s disparate threads end up being tied together through sheer coincidence. This might be intentional: Coen and Cooke are more concerned with the theme of feminine trauma and anger binding their storylines. However, it results in a plot-heavy film that continuously meanders on its way toward building on (or satisfying) its intrigue. There’s no single noir tradition that dictates exactly how a modern successor should operate; some of these stories focus on the mystery, while others use their underworld escapades as vehicles for charismatic characters – but that’s the main ingredient Honey Don’t! lacks. Qualley, through no fault of her own, is stuck pounding the pavement with little more than a mild scowl on her face, while Evans strains to embody a foul-mouthed douchebag with no further dimensions, much as he did in The Gray Man. The Biggest Movies Coming in 2025If Honey Don’t! has one redeeming performance, it’s that of Charlie Day as local detective Marty Metakawich. It’s a minor role made hilarious in a retrograde, tongue-in-cheek manner, since Marty keeps desperately asking Honey out on dates, no matter how many times she clarifies her sexual orientation. Unfortunately, like much of the supporting cast, Day’s role is truncated, and written first and foremost with its function in mind. His handful of scenes are all about nudging Honey’s investigation in a different direction, even though this seldom leads to interesting developments.Honey Don’t! lacks both visual pizzazz and the kind Coen-esque edge that made the brothers’ previous capers shine. Their zaniest works, like The Big Lebowski and Raising Arizona, let their sprawling ensembles loose in a fun-house-mirror reflection of reality. But this one feels far too plodding to draw your attention. It also reads too overtly like the product of a hasty first draft influenced by the window dressing of other, better noirs – the PIs, the lurid crimes, the femmes fatale – without the time or effort to examine what drew audiences to those movies in the first place.Honey Don’t! is a step down from what was already a disappointing departure.“There’s no better summary of the difference between what Honey Don’t! promises and what it delivers than the mood of the crowd at its Cannes premiere. As the logos for the festival and studio came up on screen, they were met with the kind of deafening roars typically reserved for midnight cult movies. But once Honey Don’t! was underway, the excitement slowly dissipated. Punchlines were met with scattered chuckles, and the movie’s violent bloodshed – part-cartoonish, part-viscerally upsetting – yielded befuddlement. You can’t judge a movie by an audience’s reaction, but in this case, it’s at least instructive.

These 1920s Color Palettes are ‘Greater than Gatsby’ Preston Lee •  In this article:See more ▼Post may contain affiliate links which give us commissions at no cost to you.There’s something undeniably captivating about the color schemes of the Roaring Twenties. As a designer with a passion for historical aesthetics, I’ve always been drawn to the sophisticated elegance and bold statements that defined this transformative decade. The 1920s represented liberation from Victorian constraints, embraced modernism, and celebrated luxury in ways that continue to influence contemporary design a century later. If you’re looking to infuse your next project with the timeless glamour and innovative spirit of the Jazz Age, you’re in luck. I’ve compiled eight stunning 1920s-inspired color palettes that perfectly capture this iconic era while remaining remarkably relevant for today’s design landscape. 👋 Psst... Did you know you can get unlimited downloads of 59,000+ fonts and millions of other creative assets for just $16.95/mo? Learn more »The 8 Most Elegant 1920s Color Palettes 1. Gatsby Glamour #CBA135 #0C0C0C #F5F5F5 #8B0000 A luxurious blend of antique gold, deep black, ivory, and crimson red, capturing the opulence of The Great Gatsby era. I’m particularly fond of this palette for luxury branding or special event designs. These colors instantly communicate sophistication and extravagance – perfect when you want to make a statement that feels both historic and contemporary. The contrast between the warm gold and cool neutrals creates a balanced tension that draws the eye. 2. Jazz Age Jewel #7F00FF #FFD700 #2E8B57 #000000 Vibrant amethyst purple, gleaming gold, rich emerald green, and classic black, reflecting the boldness of jazz clubs and speakeasies.Get 300+ Fonts for FREEEnter your email to download our 100% free "Font Lover's Bundle". For commercial & personal use. No royalties. No fees. No attribution. 100% free to use anywhere. When I need to create something with dramatic flair, this palette never disappoints. These jewel tones embody the adventurous spirit of the era, when conventional rules were being broken and new forms of expression were emerging. I find it works wonderfully for nightlife-themed projects or any design that aims to capture a sense of excitement and rhythm. 3. Deco Dreams #4682B4 #D2B48C #A9A9A9 #FFFFFF Steel blue, tan, dark gray, and white combine to create a sleek, modern palette emblematic of Art Deco style. The architectural influence is unmistakable in this palette. These colors remind me of the iconic skyscrapers that transformed urban skylines during the 1920s. The cool rationality of steel blue paired with warm tan creates a beautiful balance that works exceptionally well for professional environments and modern interiors with historical references. 4. Flapper Chic #f04b41 #F5DEB3 #000000 #FFFFFF Playful hot pink, soft wheat, bold black, and crisp white reflect the fashion-forward spirit of flapper style. This lively combination captures the youthful energy and rebellion that characterized the flapper movement. Whenever I use this palette, I’m reminded of the revolutionary changes in women’s fashion during this era – shorter hemlines, bobbed hair, and a newfound sense of freedom. It’s perfect for projects that need a touch of feminine boldness with historical depth. 5. Speakeasy Shadows #2F4F4F #8B0000 #A0522D #000000 Dark slate gray, deep red, sienna brown, and black evoke the mysterious allure of hidden speakeasies. There’s something irresistibly secretive about these deep, rich tones. I love using this palette when designing for brands that want to convey exclusivity or a sense of insider knowledge. The colors feel substantive and slightly mysterious, perfect for creating depth in any design project that aims to tell a compelling story. 6. Art Deco Sunrise #FFA500 #FF4500 #FFD700 #000000 Bright orange, fiery red-orange, golden yellow, and white capture the vibrant energy of Art Deco motifs. When optimism is the primary message, this radiant palette delivers. Inspired by the sunburst patterns so prevalent in Art Deco design, these warm, vibrant hues communicate progress and forward momentum. I’ve used this combination for everything from travel brands to motivational campaigns with great success. 7. Peacock Parlor #1E90FF #32CD32 #8A2BE2 #000000 Electric blue, lime green, vivid violet, and black mirror the extravagant colors found in 1920s parlor rooms. This bold, somewhat unexpected combination speaks to the experimental side of 1920s design. During this decade, international influences like Japanese prints and African art were making their way into Western interiors, bringing with them more adventurous color stories. I find this palette particularly effective for digital projects that need to stand out in crowded visual environments. 8. Champagne & Charcoal #F7E7CE #36454F #D3D3D3 #FFFFFF Soft champagne, charcoal gray, light gray, and white create a sophisticated, understated palette. Sometimes subtlety speaks volumes. This refined palette channels the quiet luxury that underpinned much of 1920s design. Not everything was bold and dramatic – there was also a movement toward elegant restraint. This combination works beautifully for upscale branding, wedding design, or any project where sophistication is the primary goal. Why 1920s Color Palettes Remain Relevant Today The enduring appeal of 1920s color schemes isn’t simply about nostalgia. This was a period of profound transformation in design thinking, as traditional Victorian excess gave way to modernist principles that continue to shape our visual language today. The 1920s represented a unique moment when the handcrafted met the machine-made, when traditional luxury was being redefined through the lens of new technologies and materials. The color palettes from this era reflect this fascinating tension – simultaneously honoring tradition while pushing boldly forward. As a designer working in 2025, I find that incorporating these historical palettes provides a richness and contextual depth that purely contemporary color schemes sometimes lack. There’s a storytelling aspect to these colors that resonates deeply with audiences looking for authenticity and meaning in design. How to Incorporate 1920s Colors in Contemporary Design After years of experimenting with these historical palettes, I’ve developed some strategies for using them effectively in modern contexts: Create Unexpected Pairings Try combining 1920s color schemes with ultra-contemporary design elements. The juxtaposition can create a fascinating dialogue between past and present. I recently paired the Gatsby Glamour palette with minimal sans-serif typography and negative space for a luxury hotel project – the result felt both timeless and thoroughly modern. Use Strategic Proportions You don’t need to use all colors equally. Consider using the bolder hues as accents while letting neutrals dominate the overall design. For example, with the Jazz Age Jewel palette, I often use the black as a grounding base, with strategic pops of amethyst, gold, and emerald creating focal points. Consider Contemporary Contexts Think about how these historical colors might translate to digital environments. The high-contrast combinations popular in the 1920s actually work remarkably well for accessibility in UI design, providing sufficient distinction between elements while maintaining aesthetic cohesion. Explore Material Translations The 1920s was characterized by innovative materials like Bakelite, chrome, and lacquered surfaces. Consider how your chosen palette might express itself through different materials and textures. The Deco Dreams palette, for instance, takes on new life when imagined in contemporary materials like frosted glass, brushed metal, and polished concrete. The Historical Context Behind These Palettes Understanding why certain colors dominated the 1920s design landscape helps us use them more intentionally today: Post-War Optimism After the darkness of World War I, there was a collective desire for brightness and celebration. This explains the prevalence of gold tones and vibrant accents in palettes like Art Deco Sunrise and Jazz Age Jewel. Technological Advances New synthetic dyes and manufacturing processes made previously rare colors more accessible. Electric blues and vibrant purples that were once the exclusive domain of royalty became available to the middle class, influencing palettes like Peacock Parlor. Global Influences The 1920s saw increased international travel and cultural exchange, bringing new color sensibilities from Egypt (following the discovery of Tutankhamun’s tomb), East Asia, and African art. These influences expanded the typical Western color vocabulary considerably. Changing Social Norms As women gained the right to vote and entered the workforce in greater numbers, there was a shift toward bolder self-expression in fashion and design. The vibrant accents in palettes like Flapper Chic reflect this new sense of freedom and assertiveness. Applying 1920s Palettes Across Design Disciplines These versatile color combinations can enhance projects across multiple design fields: Digital Design The high contrast and distinctive color relationships in 1920s palettes translate surprisingly well to screen-based media. I’ve used the Speakeasy Shadows palette for an immersive storytelling website with excellent results – the deep, rich tones created an engaging experience that kept users exploring. Environmental Design The architectural roots of Art Deco make these palettes natural choices for interior and environmental design. The Champagne & Charcoal palette has been my go-to for creating sophisticated retail environments that feel both contemporary and connected to design history. Fashion & Textile Design The cyclical nature of fashion means that 1920s color stories regularly find their way back into contemporary wardrobes. The Flapper Chic palette continues to inform collections that balance playfulness with sophistication, especially for eveningwear and special occasions. Product Design The bold geometry and distinctive color schemes of the 1920s can transform ordinary objects into conversation pieces. I recently collaborated on a kitchenware collection using the Gatsby Glamour palette – the combination of black, gold, ivory, and crimson elevated simple forms into luxury items. Conclusion: Embracing Timeless Elegance As we navigate the complex visual landscape of 2025, there’s something reassuring about connecting with the refined aesthetics of the past. The 1920s represented a pivotal moment in design history when tradition and innovation converged to create something truly distinctive. By incorporating these eight elegant color palettes into your work, you’re not simply borrowing from history – you’re participating in an ongoing conversation about how we express values like luxury, progress, and sophistication through color. Whether you’re designing a website, creating a brand identity, or reimagining an interior space, these timeless combinations offer a solid foundation that can be adapted to countless contemporary contexts. The enduring appeal of 1920s aesthetics proves that truly exceptional design transcends its era to become something timeless. So go ahead – let the elegance and boldness of the Jazz Age inspire your next creative endeavor. Your work will be all the richer for it. Preston Lee Preston Lee is a graphic and web designer who grew up drawing, painting, and building with Lego. Okay, let's face it: he still does all of those things. But now, he gets paid to design websites, design graphics, write, and do all kinds of creative things. His advice has been featured by Entrepreneur, Inc, Forbes, Adobe, and many more. How Fonts Influence Tone and Clarity in Animated VideosAudiences interact differently with messages based on which fonts designers choose to use within a text presentation. Fonts shape how...30 Stamp Fonts for a Crafty, Handmade FeelThere’s something incredibly satisfying about the texture and character of a stamped impression. As a graphic designer who’s spent countless...30 Monoline Fonts That Create Clean, Consistent Designs in 2025I’ve noticed monoline fonts taking center stage across branding, web design, and print materials in . There’s something undeniably elegant...

Bungie's Marathon reboot has been under fire for plagiarism of a British artist, and a new report has suggested Sony has set a sales target for the game that could prove challengingTech13:07, 21 May 2025Is Marathon in trouble?Destiny 2 developer Bungie isn't having the best of weeks, despite revealing a series of expansions for the game and preparing for the launch of its Marathon reboot in September.Still, the studio was forced to go back to the literal drawing board in recent days, with an artist claiming much of the game's design language was lifted from her portfolio, including some lifted wholesale.‌Now, Forbes' Paul Tassi, a regular reporter on Bungie, has discussed the high stakes facing the studio. Reports had previously suggested that Bungie is close to being absorbed into Sony and losing its autonomy if it underperforms, and that seems more likely than ever, given the publisher apparently wants the game to hit a high sales target.‌Posting the above video on YouTube where he explains the deep issues with Marathon on multiple levels, and how it's unlikely to be a critical hit, Tassi reveals he's heard Sony is expecting big things."I heard this needed to be in the top 5 of NPD sales for the year if it's going to be a success, or considered a success," he explained.Article continues below"Crazy," he adds, "there's no way".Last year, Sony did have a live service game in the top five NPD (now called Circana) games with Helldivers 2, but that felt like a cultural zeitgeist moment that didn't enter the arena with all of the baggage Marathon now has saddled on it.The gaming community praised Marathon's visuals, but now those are being questioned, too‌Considering 2025 has already seen critical hits like Monster Hunter Wilds and Split Fiction doing well sales-wise, and the Nintendo Switch 2 is launching soon, it seems like a tall mountain for Bungie to climb–especially since it's launching at a $40 price point when many alternatives in the genre are free-to-play.Still, it would be interesting for Sony to push a specific sales number, given that a live service title tends to live or die based on player retention.Over the weekend, Tassi reported that morale at the studio has plummeted.Article continues belowHe said: "Sony and Bungie legal are now sorting through this, and there is unlikely to be any new information as all of this continues to unfold. It is not clear how long an “audit” will take of the assets to remove or find any more plagiarism, as it’s an expansive enough process to have Bungie not even show any footage at all in its recent livestream.""Morale is in 'free-fall” across all departments, and “the vibes have never been worse.” Everyone has the same concerns about what happens to Bungie as a studio if Marathon bombs, which is something they absolutely cannot afford."For the latest breaking news and stories from across the globe from the Daily Star, sign up for our newsletters.‌‌‌

Start SlideshowStart SlideshowImage: Denkiworks / Polyhedra Games / Playdigious / Kotaku, Sandfall Interactive, Microsoft / Kotaku, Screenshot: Lucasfilm, Lost Saved Data_ / KotakuThis week, we share our boots-on-the-ground takeaways about some of the best games we saw at PAX East, bid the great Star Wars Andor a fond farewell, and talk about just how much it’s possible to get attached to a particular type of keyboard, even years after it stops being manufactured. Previous SlideNext SlideList slides12 Cool Games We Saw At PAX East 2025Image: Denkiworks / Polyhedra Games / Playdigious / KotakuThis year’s PAX East felt small. There were a few big names on the show floor, like Bandai Namco which was there showing off Elden Ring: NightreignBaldur’s Gate 3Read MorePrevious SlideNext SlideList slidesBaldur’s Gate 3 Director Predicted Clair Obscur: Expedition 33's Success At Last Year’s Game AwardsImage: Sandfall InteractiveClair Obscur: Expedition 33 came out of nowhere. Yes, it made waves at Microsoft’s Xbox showcase last summer. And true, it continued to look exceptional as it revealed its star-studded cast. But I don’t know that anyone expected it to get quite so much love as it has, and not just from diehard RPG fans. It’s currently the highest-rated game of 2025 on Metacritic and a possible frontrunner for Game of the Year at the Game Awards. No one could have predicted this. Except someone did: the director of Baldur’s Gate 3. - Ethan Gach Read MorePrevious SlideNext SlideList slidesI Just Murdered A Very Rare, Near-Worthless Keyboard And I Might Have To Stop Playing PC Games ForeverImage: Microsoft / KotakuI just threw half a pint of Cherry Pepsi Max across my keyboard. It was the penultimate keyboard I’ll ever be able to use. I’m down to my last one.I am very aware that I’m entirely wrong about keyboards. I am told, by just about every single person in my life, that I should be using a mechanical keyboard, with removable switches, clickity-clackity sounds, and probably enough neon lighting to open a nightclub. I do not. I use a Microsoft MultiMedia Keyboard 1.0A, with a blob of Blu-Tac over the Num Lock LED, and I have done so for as long as I can remember. And as of today, I’m down to my last one. When this one goes, that’s it. I’m done. - John Walker Read MorePrevious SlideNext SlideList slidesWe Say Goodbye To Andor, One Of The Best TV Shows Of 2025Screenshot: LucasfilmWell, we’ve reached the end of the road. Andor’s second and final season brought us 12 episodes of (mostly) exceptional Star Wars drama released in three-episode chunks, a format which served the structure of the show brilliantly, with each chunk representing one year in the four years leading up to Rogue One, but also meant that we didn’t get to savor the show for nearly as long. - Zack Zwiezen Read MorePrevious SlideNext SlideList slidesThis Lo-Fi No Man’s Sky Has You Exploring Incredible Alien WorldsScreenshot: Lost Saved Data_ / KotakuImagine a modest No Man’s Sky set in Proteus. That gets you a long way toward understanding the splendid Miro, both in style and substance. This is a vast game of exploring planets, combined with a solid sci-fi storyline told to you as you progress, all presented in super-lo-fi graphics that allow everything to feel significantly more organic. - John Walker Read More

ZDNET's key takeaways The RingConn Gen 2 Air is a $200 smart ring, one of the first subscription-free and affordable smart rings I've tested. The battery life can survive up to eight or nine days of use, and the sleep data collection rivals Oura. The AI health partner feature is lackluster, and it's essential to view the brand's privacy policy, given the affordable nature of a health wearable. more buying choices Smart rings are rising in popularity, but the big names -- the Ouras, Samsungs, and Ultrahumans -- can run $300 to $400. That's not counting the subscription fee, which some customers pay for full access to all the data that the smart ring aggregates. With all these murmurs of an impending recession causing pennies to be pinched and wallets to be watched, who has the money for a $400 smart ring right now? Also: How we test smart rings at ZDNET in 2025I hadn't yet tested a high-quality and affordable smart ring from a notable brand, but the newest smart ring from RingConn, the RingConn Gen 2 Air, could change that. It's the first ring I've tested that retails for a price as low as $200, without any sale or special deal. I've worn RingConn's newest smart ring over the past few weeks to see how the brand's budget ring fares as a sleep and activity tracker. Keep reading to learn how it compares to the RingConn Gen 2, which costs $100 more, and the Oura Ring 4, which costs double.  details View at RingConn The smart ring looks and feels almost exactly the same as the RingConn Gen 2, with the main difference being the charging case and battery size. The Gen 2's charging case has enough power to boost the smart ring for over 150 days, and the ring has a battery life of up to 12 days. The Gen 2 Air, on the other hand, does not come with a charging case equipped with extra juice, and it advertises a 10-day battery life (though, in my testing, I got around eight days). Even though the Gen 2 Air's battery is lower than the Gen 2, both RingConn rings match or outcompete the battery life of the Oura Ring, the Ultrahuman Ring Air, and the Samsung Galaxy Ring. The Gen 2 Air is made of stainless steel, a more affordable material compared to the Gen 2's aerospace-grade titanium. Regardless of the material, the Gen 2 Air is comfortable to wear and feels unnoticeable around my finger. It comes in a silver and gold finish, and available sizes range from six to 14.Both rings are connected to the same app experience, so whether you're using the $300 ring or the $200 ring, you'll get your data and insights presented to you in exactly the same manner. Much like the Gen 2, the Gen 2 Air tracks sleep, stress, vitals, and activity. It takes all those factors and daily scores to deliver a Wellness Balance score. The Wellness Balance is displayed like a petal on a four-petal flower, and each biometric is ranked out of 100. At the start of the day, the activity petal is nonexistent, but the activity score increases as I exercise or walk. At the end of the day, I can view my aggregate Wellness Balance, and this score provides a holistic picture of my health. As I said in my spotlight of the RingConn Gen 2, the downside to this Wellness Balance is the absence of a readiness or recovery score that other wearables have calculated and provided to users at the start of their day to understand how their body bounced back from activity and how much activity or rest they should take on for the day. This recovery score provides insights into a user's overall health and resilience, and it's helpful for those who are following a training regime to know how to treat their bodies each day.I tested the RingConn Gen 2 Air hand in hand with my Oura Ring 4, and both devices gathered fairly similar health metrics. One night, Oura gave me an 87 Sleep Score, and RingConn gave me an 86. Oura said my resting heart rate overnight was 48 beats per minute, while RingConn said 49 beats per minute. Oura said my average heart rate was 55 beats per minute, and RingConn said it was 52. While not identical, these numbers are close. Activity data is a different story. One day, Oura said I walked 7,454 steps, while RingConn said I walked 5,706. This was on a moderately active day when I took a 25-minute walk. On an intensely active day, when I went to the gym for two hours and was out and about, Oura calculated that I walked 16,291 steps, and RingConn calculated that I walked 15,454 steps. Nina Raemont/ZDNETRingConn advertises an "AI health partner" as a function of its app experience. Every day, the AI partner tells you information, like how you slept or whether you hit your step count, and then asks questions based on your behaviors. These summaries aren't available on the main page where sleep, activity, and stress data are displayed -- they're only available on the AI tab. But unlike other AI assistants, you can't type out a personalized answer to these questions.Instead, you pick from the choices of responses. It didn't feel like AI to me because it wasn't as personalized, and the responses you could choose were simple; rather, it felt like a multiple-choice health summary. This is a classic case of a brand slapping AI onto a feature that isn't actually AI. What I like about RingConn smart rings is they will tell you exactly when the ring will die and notify the user to charge it ahead of time. This is a helpful feature I hope other smart ring brands adopt. Also: Oura Ring 3 vs Oura Ring 4: Opt for the older, discounted smart ring or the newest?One concern about a smart ring this affordable is whether the brand is keeping the user's data safe and protected. Health data is valuable, and in the wrong hands, it can be sent to advertisers or health insurance agencies. Smart ring brands pay a lot of money to keep such data safe, which is why they cost as much as they do. A RingConn representative did not immediately answer my questions about why the smart ring can be so cheap, if user data is secure and protected, or if it is being compromised for the sake of a lower-cost smart ring. I did, however, review RingConn's privacy policy which relays what user data is collected, used, and stored. I recommend looking over a health wearables privacy policy before purchasing a ring, so you understand how a company keeps your information safe and secure. ZDNET's buying advice So, should you buy this $200 smart ring? If you're looking for an alternative to some of the big names that won't cost you as much but will collect nearly the same level of health data, I'd suggest the RingConn Gen 2 Air.Also: The best smart rings: Expert tested and reviewedWith competitive battery life, data display that matches its $300 sibling, and data collection that gets close to the Oura Ring 4, the RingConn Gen 2 Air is one of the first $200 smart rings I've tested that I can confidently recommend for the budget-friendly and smart ring-curious shopper. Looking for the next best product? Get expert reviews and editor favorites with ZDNET Recommends.Featured reviews