The New York Times’ latest game, Pips, brings domino fun to your desktop. How to play Pips as well as hints in case you get stuck.
Hurdle Tips and Solutions for April 1, 2026
Hints and answers to today’s Hurdle all in one place.
Apple Unveils iOS 18 Update to Counter DarkSword Exploit for Users Who Are Not Transitioning to iOS 26
Apple plans to launch an iOS 18 update on Wednesday morning to fix vulnerabilities exploited by the DarkSword hacking tool. This comes after a number of updates directed at earlier iOS versions, particularly focusing on two vulnerabilities known as Coruna and DarkSword. Coruna impacts devices running iOS 13 through iOS 17.2.1, whereas DarkSword affects iPhones on iOS 18.4-18.7.
Both vulnerabilities make use of multiple weaknesses, mainly through WebKit, to compromise devices. In response, Apple has issued several updates, including:
– iOS 15.8.7 and iPadOS 15.8.7 for older models such as iPhone 6s and iPad Air 2.
– iOS 16.7.15 and iPadOS 16.7.15 for devices like iPhone 8 and iPad Pro 9.7-inch.
– iOS 18.7.7 and iPadOS 18.7.7 for newer models like iPhone XS and iPad 7th generation.
Although Apple has patched iOS 18 for devices that aren’t capable of running iOS 26, those that are compatible with iOS 26 but haven’t yet updated remain exposed. To remedy this situation, Apple has stated it will deliver an updated version of iOS 18 with safeguards against the DarkSword vulnerability, similar to what is included in iOS 26. Users with auto-update enabled will receive this automatically, whereas those who have it disabled can opt for the patched iOS 18 or choose to upgrade to iOS 26.
This preemptive action follows the revelation of DarkSword being publicly accessible on GitHub, heightening the risk for users. It is essential for anyone still on iOS 18 to promptly update their devices as soon as the patch is made available.
Report: Apple Encounters Diminished Risk Due to Iran Conflict Affecting India’s Smartphone Shipments
Apple’s Manufacturing and Export Framework Amid Regional Strains
In recent times, India has emerged as a vital alternative for Apple in broadening its manufacturing endeavors, particularly as the company aims to lessen its dependence on China. The Indian government’s efforts to position the nation as a global manufacturing center have coincided with a notable rise in smartphone exports. Recent statistics reveal that India exported roughly $11 billion in mobile devices during the first half of the fiscal year beginning April 2025, representing a 55% increase from the prior year.
Nevertheless, the ongoing turmoil in Iran presents a possible risk to this growth path. Analysts have raised alarms that smartphone exports from India might decrease in the upcoming weeks, particularly for shipments reliant on regional trade centers such as the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Smaller traders are likely to face greater challenges compared to larger global brands, which have the ability to redirect shipments more efficiently.
In spite of the logistical hurdles stemming from the regional tensions, the appetite for smartphones continues to be strong. Experts highlight that while logistics have faced disruptions, overall market demand has not yet been significantly affected. Companies are adjusting by moving away from conventional trade centers and choosing more direct shipping paths.
As the circumstances develop, the unpredictability of export flows is expected to persist, bringing potential consequences for both supply chains and market demand. The complete extent of the effect on demand will rely on how the geopolitical situation transpires in the forthcoming weeks.
Brandon Sanderson Provides Perspectives on Mistborn Pre-Production for Apple TV Series
In a video posted today on his YouTube channel, Brandon Sanderson shared an exciting update about the adaptation of his acclaimed series, Mistborn, for Apple TV. Here are the key highlights from his announcement.
### First Draft is 50% Complete
Earlier this year, The Hollywood Reporter disclosed that Apple had acquired the rights to Brandon Sanderson’s “Cosmere” novels. Sanderson’s agreement with Apple affords him remarkable creative authority over the screen adaptations, enabling him to assume roles as writer, producer, and consultant. This degree of involvement is unparalleled, exceeding the control possessed by other notable authors such as J.K. Rowling and George R.R. Martin.
In his most recent update, Sanderson announced that the first draft of the Mistborn screenplay is presently at the halfway mark, although Apple has yet to review it. He conveyed optimism about the progress, stating:
> “The Mistborn screenplay is at 50%. I’m moving right along on that, had some good feedback from chatting with the studio and things like that, with Apple about what they’re expecting. They haven’t read it yet, but I’m feeling really good about how this is going.”
This adaptation is merely the start, as Sanderson envisions multiple adaptations of his works for Apple TV. The Mistborn series is being crafted as feature films, while The Stormlight Archive is planned for a television series.
At this time, there is no confirmed timeline for the release of these projects. Nonetheless, Sanderson aims to keep his fan base informed via his weekly videos. Moreover, his annual conference is set for December, where both he and Apple are expected to stir up further excitement regarding the forthcoming adaptations.
Apple TV is priced at $12.99 per month and boasts a range of popular shows and movies, including Severance, The Studio, The Morning Show, Shrinking, and Silo.
Secure These Deals Under $100 in the Final Hours of Amazon’s Big Spring Sale
A ton of deals under $100 are still live on Amazon for its Big Spring Sale.
Wordle April 1, 2026: Answer and Hints
Here’s the answer for “Wordle” #1747 on April 1 as well as a few hints, tips, and clues to help you solve it yourself.
Mercor Reports Cyberattack Linked to Open-Source LiteLLM Project Compromise
The AI recruiting startup confirmed a security incident after an extortion hacking crew took credit for stealing data from the company’s systems.
Google Pixel 10 Pro Fold Reduced by $300 during Amazon’s Major Spring Sale
The newest foldable from Google is a challenging purchase at its full cost, but this offer alters the situation entirely.
Amazon’s Big Spring Sale is nearing its end, but you can grab an excellent bargain on a new foldable phone if you hurry. The Google Pixel 10 Pro Fold introduced several notable enhancements over the Pixel 9 Pro Fold, although it was eclipsed by Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold 7. The latest foldable from Samsung is just slightly more expensive, yet significantly slimmer and lighter, along with being more powerful. Amazon is currently discounting the Pixel 10 Pro Fold by $300 off its retail price, finally making the foldable a worthwhile purchase.
Anything can be an exceptional deal at the right price, but the Pixel 10 Pro Fold offers much more than that. It’s the first foldable to launch with IP68 certification in the U.S., providing complete protection against dust and liquids. It’s also the first foldable to boast in
“Nothing’s Fashionable Android Smartphone Boasts Back Screen and $200 Price Cut”
The Nothing Phone 3 was first introduced with a price that many deemed excessive for its features. Even with its distinctive elements, such as the Glyph Matrix rear LED screen and the Nothing OS 4, the hardware and user experience did not entirely warrant the flagship costs. Nevertheless, the situation has evolved with the introduction of Amazon’s Big Spring Sale, where the Nothing Phone 3 is now offered at a notable discount.
Both the 256GB and 512GB versions of the Nothing Phone 3 are presently $200 off, reducing the price to $599. This discount aligns the device’s cost more closely with its features, enhancing its appeal to potential customers. The Nothing Phone 3, equipped with its Snapdragon 8s Gen 4 processor, 50MP camera sensors, and IP68 resilience, now provides improved value for the investment.
The phone’s aesthetics, showcasing the Glyph Matrix display, distinguishes it in the bustling Android landscape. While the processor may not be the quickest, the lowered price renders the Nothing Phone 3 an enticing option for those in search of a unique Android device at an affordable cost. The sale is limited in duration, prompting interested customers to move swiftly to capitalize on the lowered prices.
