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Intel’s Ceased SSD Option Might Have Transformed the Future of Data Storage

Intel characterizes Optane as “a system acceleration solution placed between the processor and slower storage devices” that permits “the computer to keep frequently used data and programs nearer to the processor.” Consequently, the system gains rapid access to that data, enhancing “overall system responsiveness.” Ultimately, Intel was unable to reduce the costs of Optane technology sufficiently to make it viable for sale, leading to the project’s discontinuation. Additionally, alternatives emerged such as the DDR5 standard, Micron’s LPCAMM2 laptop modules, and compute express link (CXL) technology, which are faster, less expensive, and more versatile.

What impact would Intel Optane technology have had on storage experiences?

RAM acts as an ultra-fast, temporary method for holding data while applications are in operation. When

Future Electric SUVs to Keep an Eye On in 2026 and Later

Until fairly recently, electric vehicles were more of a novelty than a practical choice. They were sluggish, poorly constructed, underpowered, and unable to travel long distances. Most crucially, the electric model didn’t adapt well to SUVs, as individuals use them not only for urban driving but also for off-road situations and towing capabilities. Thankfully, as governments worldwide have advocated for greater EV usage, manufacturers have progressed as well. Nowadays, electric vehicles can travel several hundred miles, often cost less to maintain than gasoline vehicles, and the immediate torque and power at your command can become quite appealing.

If you’ve been delaying your electric SUV acquisition, 2026 may be your year. This is because even traditional manufacturers like Honda, Toyota, and Land Rover are prepared to join the electric movement by introducing new EV ranges. To assist you in making this choice, we’ve compiled a list of fifteen electric SUVs to keep an eye on in 2026 and beyond.

**Acura RSX**

The initial RSX stands as one of the most legendary cars from the Japanese manufacturer. It was available in the U.S. from 2001 to 2006 and won the admiration of automotive fans with a four-cylinder engine that delivered 210 horsepower at 7,800 rpm and was coupled with a six-speed manual transmission. The outcome was a vehicle that was agile, sporty, and outperformed many pricier cars of its time. Furthermore, the original RSX was visually striking.

Acura is now reviving the RSX name for a new electric SUV that, unlike its first EV, the ZDX, is constructed on Honda’s all-new “0 Series” EV platform. The design represents a significant shift from the original RSX, as the new model is a sporty SUV coupe with four doors, showcasing a flowing roofline and a ducktail-style rear spoiler.

While details about performance, range, and 0-60 acceleration times remain undisclosed, the new RSX will incorporate Honda’s ASIMO operating system, which is expected to bring substantial enhancements to the infotainment setup, including over-the-air updates, an adjustable driving experience based on user preferences, and a variety of new safety features. Acura’s new factory in Ohio will produce the vehicle, and recent reports suggest that pricing could commence around $50,000.

**BMW iX3**

BMW’s design approach has stirred debate in recent times, as many fans have criticized the oversized “beaver-toothed” grille found on several models. Well, BMW has heeded the feedback and reduced the grille size on the new iX3, but this has led to another issue. Since the automaker opted for a sleeker grille, it now bears a resemblance to a rabbit’s teeth instead. One Reddit user remarked, “We heard you don’t favor the gigantic grilles, so we’ve made this one comically small.”

No matter your personal views on the design, BMWs retain their classic traits, and the iX3, part of the Neue Klasse platform, promises to be no exception. In the U.S., the iX3 will arrive equipped with dual electric motors that collectively produce 463 hp, enabling it to accelerate from a standstill to 60 mph in an estimated 4.2 seconds. The battery boasts a 109-kWh capacity, which the manufacturer claims will yield a range of 400 miles.

Charging has been significantly improved, as the iX3 is capable of recharging at up to 400 kW, allowing for 230 miles of range in just 10 minutes. Additionally, BMW has revamped the interior, featuring a uniquely shaped 17.9-inch infotainment system that also manages climate controls, and a 43.0-inch display for gauges that presents a highly modern look. The starting price for the new iX3 is expected to be around $60,000, with sales set to begin in summer 2026.

**Chevy Bolt**

In today’s unpredictable economic landscape, not everyone can spend $100K on an EV. Luckily, if you’re searching for a family-sized electric vehicle that remains affordable, the Chevy Bolt is making a comeback for the 2027 model year. Priced at $28,995, the new Bolt keeps the same silhouette but features refreshed front and rear designs that look attractive and harmonize with other contemporary EVs. Inside, there’s a new 11.3-inch touchscreen that will manage all performance metrics, yet thankfully, physical climate controls are still included. Since GM has discontinued Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, mirroring your phone is not an option, requiring reliance on the integrated Google apps.

Beneath the hood, the new Bolt will come with a 210-hp motor that, when paired with the 65-kWh lithium-iron-phosphate (LFP) battery, should deliver approximately 255 miles of range. Charging has seen a substantial enhancement, rising from 55 kW to 150 kW.

Google’s Latest Initiative Enhances AI-Powered Shopping Experience

Google has announced a new open standard known as Universal Commerce Protocol (UCP) that enables AI agents to shop, complete purchases, and manage payments on your behalf. This groundbreaking protocol seeks to enhance the online shopping journey by enabling AI agents to handle product searches, comparisons, cart additions, and checkouts with one command. UCP standardizes the interactions among AI agents, retailers, and payment processors, establishing a unified language for effortless transactions.

Google has collaborated with significant entities such as Shopify, Walmart, Visa, and others to implement this protocol. Initially, UCP-enabled checkout will be accessible in AI Mode within Google Search and the Gemini app in the U.S., utilizing Google Pay and Google Wallet for transactions. Support for PayPal and additional features like loyalty rewards is expected to be introduced soon.

For enterprises, Google is rolling out Business Agents, virtual sales helpers that provide product information in the brand’s voice, along with Direct Offers, which deliver exclusive coupons within AI Mode. This advancement sets the stage for AI-driven shopping experiences, simplifying purchases to a single tap.

Eddy Cue Showcases Remarkable Year for Apple Services, Featuring TV and Music

In a recent press announcement, Apple revealed that 2025 marked a historic year for its services sector, underscoring major achievements for platforms like Apple Music and Apple TV. Eddy Cue, Apple’s senior vice president of Services, shared that Apple Music reached an unprecedented level in both audience and new subscribers, while Apple TV outperformed prior viewership records in December 2025, achieving a 36% rise in total hours watched compared to the previous year.

Cue highlighted the impressive growth and global reach of Apple services, stating, “From Apple TV, Apple Music, and Apple News, to essential daily tools like Apple Pay and iCloud, we provided enriching experiences to users around the globe.” He mentioned that the App Store recorded over 850 million average weekly users worldwide, with developers accumulating over $550 billion since its inception in 2008. Moreover, Apple Pay successfully prevented over $1 billion in fraud and generated upwards of $100 billion in additional merchant sales worldwide.

The press announcement spotlighted various critical statistics for 2025:
– Shazam achieved over 1 billion recognitions every month.
– AirTag and Find My collaboration with airlines decreased unrecovered luggage by 90%.
– The App Store facilitated $1.3 trillion in developer billings and sales in 2024.

Apple’s services also celebrated milestone anniversaries for platforms such as Apple Podcasts and Apple News, and broadened accessibility with Apple Pay now accessible in 89 markets and Apple Fitness+ launching in 28 more countries. Newly introduced features in 2025 included personalized experiences in Apple Wallet and Maps, AI-enhanced functionalities in Apple Music and Podcasts, and an expanded array of games in Apple Arcade.

As Apple gazes towards the future, it stays devoted to innovation and improving customer experiences while emphasizing privacy. For further information, the complete press announcement can be accessed on Apple’s official website.

Important Alert: Refrain from Replying to Instagram Password Reset Emails

### Examining the Recent Instagram Password Reset Email Situation

Lately, a number of Instagram users have indicated that they are receiving unexpected password reset emails, causing confusion and anxiety regarding the safety of their accounts. This issue has been associated with a major incident involving the possible compromise of account information for around 17.5 million Instagram users, as stated by the cybersecurity company Malwarebytes.

#### The Situation

Malwarebytes has reported that cybercriminals have accessed sensitive data from these accounts, which includes usernames, physical addresses, phone numbers, and email addresses. This information is allegedly up for sale on the dark web, heightening concerns about the potential for exploitation by malicious entities.

Despite these assertions, Instagram’s parent organization, Meta, has claimed that their systems have not been breached. They argue that the situation arises from a flaw in their API, which permitted unauthorized external parties to initiate password reset emails for specific accounts. Meta has explained that while the API was exploited, this does not equate to a data breach in the conventional sense.

#### Official Statements

In light of the influx of password reset emails, Instagram has recommended that users disregard these alerts if they did not initiate a password reset. They have expressed regret for any confusion the emails may have caused and assured users that their accounts are secure.

Malwarebytes, in its outreach to clients, mentioned that the identification of the compromised information came about during standard checks of the dark web. They associated the incident with a possible API vulnerability that might have appeared in 2024, implying that this weakness has existed for some duration.

#### Consequences for Users

Although Meta’s claim that there has been no data breach may be accurate in a technical sense, the scenario highlights the necessity for users to remain vigilant. The exploitation of an API can still pose significant threats, including phishing attacks where cybercriminals may utilize stolen data to trick users into divulging additional personal information.

Users are encouraged to stay alert and to watch for phishing endeavors that might use their Instagram usernames and email addresses. It’s essential to authenticate any communications that appear to be from Instagram prior to taking any subsequent steps.

#### Conclusion

To conclude, while the recent influx of password reset emails has sparked worries regarding Instagram account security, Meta’s official position is that there has been no breach of their systems. Users should follow the guidance to disregard unsolicited password reset emails and remain vigilant against possible phishing schemes. As always, employing strong, distinct passwords and activating two-factor authentication can bolster account security.

User Views on the Dependability of Inexpensive Headphones

top-rated headphones available for under $100 still encompass a large variety that are priced below $20 or even $10. However, at such a low cost, can you really expect to receive headphones that are trustworthy?

Interestingly, inexpensive headphones manage to stand their ground. While this can differ based on the brand you select, the audio performance can actually be quite decent, though it might not match up to the higher-end models. You may also wonder if budget headphones will last longer than their more costly counterparts, but as it turns out, there isn’t a straightforward way to measure that since it greatly depends on how you handle your headphones.

It is commonly stated that you receive what you pay for in terms of quality. Nevertheless, many reviews on budget headphones are rather favorable, highlighting an excellent price-to-quality ratio and unexpected durability. Regarding low-cost headphones, users readily share both the advantages and disadvantages of their purchases.

The advantages of purchasing affordable headphones

Two Nations Prohibit Grok App because of AI-Created CSAM; Anticipating Apple’s Reply

**AI-Produced CSAM by Grok: An Escalating Issue**

The rise of AI technologies has led to remarkable progress, yet it has also prompted significant ethical and legal dilemmas, especially concerning the creation of non-consensual deepfake visuals. The Grok application, which employs AI to generate images, has recently faced criticism following reports of its role in producing non-consensual near-nude deepfakes of women and children. This alarming pattern has incited action from various governments and legislators.

**The Ban on Grok in Southeast Asia**

In light of the distressing misuse of the Grok app, Malaysia and Indonesia have acted resolutely by prohibiting the application within their territories. Authorities in these nations pointed to the inadequacy of existing measures to stop the creation and spread of fake pornographic material, particularly involving at-risk groups such as women and minors. The Indonesian government commenced the ban on a Saturday, with Malaysia following suit the next day.

**U.S. Senators Call for Action from Tech Companies**

In the U.S., three senators—Ron Wyden, Ed Markey, and Ben Ray Luján—have called on Apple to temporarily pull both the Grok and X apps from the App Store. They voiced serious concern over the “disturbing content generation” linked to these applications, which encompasses the creation of child sexual abuse materials (CSAM). The senators criticized the inaction from former CEO Elon Musk and underscored the quick removal of other harmful applications at the behest of the White House while nothing has been done regarding Grok.

**Ofcom’s Investigation in the UK**

In the UK, Ofcom, the regulatory body for media, has initiated a formal inquiry into the operations of the Grok app on the X platform. Reports suggest that the Grok AI chatbot has been directed to produce and distribute undressed images of individuals, which could be deemed intimate image exploitation or pornography, alongside sexualized images of children that could qualify as CSAM. Ofcom’s investigation seeks to establish whether X has adhered to its legal responsibilities under the Online Safety Act.

**Silence from Apple and Google**

As of the most current information, neither Apple nor Google has publicly addressed the senators’ plea or the issues raised by regulators in Southeast Asia and the UK. The Grok and X apps continue to be accessible for download in the U.S. App Store, provoking questions about the accountability of tech firms in overseeing and regulating the content produced by their platforms.

**Conclusion**

The circumstances surrounding the Grok app underscore the pressing necessity for strong regulations and moral standards in the creation and implementation of AI technologies. As governments and entities contend with the implications of AI-generated material, prioritizing the safety of vulnerable individuals, particularly children, is crucial. The ongoing investigations and demand for action indicate an increasing recognition of the potential risks posed by such technologies and the urgent need for accountability among tech companies.

Convert Your Vintage Smartphone into a Complimentary DIY Webcam Using This Must-Have App

Iriun. This application is available for free download and usage, and it supports multiple platforms including Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS. The highlight is that Iriun functions well on older devices (Android 6.0 and iOS 13.0), making it an excellent option to give new life to your old Android or iPhone. We will guide you on how to begin using Iriun on your computer alongside an old phone.

How to configure your old phone as a webcam

America’s Apocalypse Aircraft Depends on 1980s Technology for Tactical Benefits

When the U.S. military initiated an unarmed nuclear missile launch in November 2025, it prompted questions about the President of the United States’ location during a nuclear conflict. The response lies in a repurposed Boeing 747 referred to as the National Airborne Operations Center, a mobile command and control hub fitted with sophisticated communication technology and a structure fortified against nuclear shockwaves. Much like the nation’s nuclear defense framework, America’s command and control functions rely on technology significantly older than one might expect. Initially provided to the U.S. Air Force in January 1980, the E-4B, dubbed Nightwatch and popularly labeled the ‘Nuke-Proof’ Doomsday plane, is capable of resisting electromagnetic pulses while maintaining advanced satellite and electronics capabilities.

Even though it will be 45 years old in 2025, the Air Force isn’t scheduled to replace its four Nightwatch aircraft until 2036, implying that the U.S.’s ‘Doomsday’ planes will approach their 60th anniversary when they are finally decommissioned. The rationale behind this is humorously straightforward: the E-4B requires larger four-engine aircraft due to its communication network’s size. Regrettably, manufacturers such as Boeing and Airbus have mostly ceased production of such large planes, prompting the Air Force to acquire its ‘doomsday planes’ on the secondary market. Presently, the nation operates four E-4Bs, ensuring that one is always prepared for rapid deployment. However, the dependence on larger, older aircraft has consistently led to numerous maintenance and operational challenges, prompting the United States to commence its successor program in 2024.

A maturing technological wonder

Several attributes allow the aircraft to perform these high-level tasks. This four-engine, long-range, high-altitude plane can accommodate up to 111 individuals and operates like a flying Pentagon, featuring a main deck segmented into six areas, including command, conference, communications, briefing, operations, office, and rest zones. The airplane has an extraordinarily intricate communications system that utilizes all major types of electromagnetic communication. Allegedly, the aircraft contains multiple communication programs, such as the advanced Milstar satellite system, a jam-resistant, multi-satellite network that enables the plane to transmit launch commands to the U.S.’s arsenal of missile silos, submarines, and bombers with specially designed electronics and transmitters. The Nightwatch even has a low-frequency antenna capable of trailing approximately 5 miles behind the aircraft. Another significant advantage is its capacity for prolonged flight. The aircraft can fly for twelve hours before requiring refueling in the air, ensuring that U.S. leaders can remain securely airborne during a nuclear crisis.

However, these features come at a substantial cost, as the Air Force must utilize secondhand jets to support a larger communications architecture. This necessity arises from the requirement for larger, four-engine planes to underpin the expansive communications network. Fueled by four GE CF6-50E2 turbofan engines, the four Nightwatch jets represent some of the oldest 747-200s currently operating. No American commercial airlines currently deploy this model. Although the U.S. has previously operated secondhand jets — for instance, Boeing 707s were repurposed for the E-8 Joint Stars fleet in the 1990s — the longevity of the E-4B has resulted in numerous challenges over the years, leading to increased expenses and prolonged maintenance and reliability concerns.

Aging yet (un)dependable

Given that the U.S. must rely on an older, larger model, the upkeep of the E-4B has consistently posed challenges, particularly as wear and tear become more apparent. The Nightwatch has started to exhibit significant reliability complications, maintaining a mission availability rate close to 55%. Even though the aircraft undergo regular inspections, repairs can prove exceedingly challenging, as the model’s lack of general popularity complicates its maintenance logistics. In the 50 years since its introduction, many of the aircraft’s specialized components have either become outdated or ceased development, as suppliers have started to withdraw various parts. According to Air Force General Charles Q Brown during a Senate Appropriations Committee session in May 2024, these expenses have driven the Air Force to explore alternatives, remarking, “At some point, it gets more costly to maintain than to transition into a new capability.”

In April 2024, the Air Force revealed plans to find a replacement for the E-4B, entering a $13 billion agreement with the Sierra Nevada Corporation to develop its Survivable Airborne Operations Center. According to Reuters, Sierra Nevada Corporation has already procured five 747-8s from Korean Air at a cost of $674 million. Reportedly, Sierra Nevada Corporation anticipates delivering the fleet by 2036, meaning the Nightwatch will reach 56 years of age before its retirement. While several technological innovations

Peyton List’s Supernatural TV Show on Paramount+ is a Must-Watch

High school can be tough enough, let alone having to attend classes you dislike in the afterlife. However, if you’ve been searching for an excellent new series to binge, and you’re in the mood for a combination of teen drama and supernatural elements, you should definitely watch “School Spirits” on Paramount+.

Fans of Netflix’s “Cobra Kai” will recognize the star talent, Peyton List, who plays Maddie Nears, a teenager who finds herself waking up as a ghost. Interestingly, she has no memory of her actual demise, unlike her fellow students at Split River High School who have already moved on. Taking initiative, Maddie starts to investigate her enigmatic death with the help of some other ghosts — along with a few living friends who are still around.

Created by Megan Trinrud and Nate Trinrud, “Spirits” made its debut on Paramount+ on March 9, 2023, and was given the green light for a second season, which became available on January 30, 2025. A third season is scheduled to launch on January 28, 2026. Additional cast members also include Kristian Ventura, Milo Manheim, and Spencer McPherson, among others.

The series showcases Peyton’s acting skills, as she navigates her supernatural circumstances. Blending drama and thriller aspects with a sprinkle of humor, “School Spirits” is a show that seamlessly combines various genres, managing to make each one fit well — for the most part.

Ghosts, drama, and high school antics

On Rotten Tomatoes, “School Spirits” received a 91% score on the Tomatometer, along with a 92% audience rating. Metacritic gave the series a score of 69 out of 100 based on eight critic reviews.

In a favorable review for Variety, critic Daniel D’Addario stated, “Without shying away from the tragedy of Maddie’s narrative, ‘School Spirits’ remarkably manages to be quite lively and enjoyable—clear evidence that there are fresh tales to tell about the institution that no one would ever want to be trapped in for their entire afterlife.”

Some reviews were a bit more critical. Writing for The Hollywood Reporter, Daniel Fienberg described the show as “mediocre.” He also asserted that “Spirits” does not bring anything new to the genre.

For those seeking additional episodic treasures, be sure to check out our list of the five top-rated TV shows you need to watch immediately. After all, we are in a new golden era of television, so it is wise to make the most of all the streaming subscriptions you are paying for.