Brian Fagioli

Microsoft Start Weather has been recognized as the “overall most accurate weather forecast provider globally” by ForecastWatch for the second consecutive year, relying on AI technology for enhanced forecasting accuracy.

This recognition followed an independent analysis involving 22 weather services, evaluated across 13 metrics throughout 2023. Microsoft Start Weather performed notably well in accuracy for predicting temperatures and cloud cover for short-term forecasts of 1-5 days.

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Opera has revealed a strategic partnership with Google Cloud to integrate Gemini models into its Aria browser AI, marking a significant advancement in browser technology. This collaboration will see the incorporation of Google's latest and most advanced large language model, Gemini, into Opera's Aria, which is powered by the multi-LLM Composer AI engine. This engine is uniquely capable of selecting the optimal model for different user tasks, enhancing performance and user experience.

The Gemini model is celebrated for its modern, powerful capabilities and user-friendly design, and its integration is expected to boost the accuracy and speed of information delivery to Opera users. "Our companies have been cooperating for more than 20 years, and we are excited to deepen this collaboration into the field of generative AI to further power our suite of browser AI services," said Per Wetterdal, EVP of Partnerships at Opera.

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In an effort to democratize Artificial Intelligence, Google is significantly enhancing its Chromebook lineup with AI-driven features, making cutting-edge functionality accessible on devices that don't break the bank. This initiative positions Google as a pioneer in offering powerful AI tools on affordable hardware, contrasting sharply with competitors like Microsoft, whose recently announced Copilot+ Windows 11 PCs come with a hefty $1,000+ price tag.

Notably, new Chromebook Plus models are stepping up their game by pre-installing the Gemini feature on the app shelf, enhancing user interaction right out of the box. As part of this initiative, Google is offering a complimentary one-year subscription to the Google One AI Premium Plan, valued at $240, with every new Chromebook Plus purchase.

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Canonical has officially released the optimized Ubuntu 24.04 image (available here) for the Milk-V Mars, a credit-card-sized RISC-V single board computer (SBC) developed by Shenzhen MilkV Technology Co., Ltd.

The Milk-V Mars is the world’s first high-performance RISC-V SBC of its size. Powered by the StarFive JH7110 quad-core processor, the board is equipped with up to 8GB of LPDDR4 memory and supports various modern interfaces, including USB 3.0, HDMI 2.0 for 4K output, and Ethernet with PoE capabilities. It also offers comprehensive expansion options with M.2 E-Key and extensive MIPI CSI channels, making it an ideal choice for developers and tech enthusiasts.

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Sabrent’s USB-C Enclosure for M.2 2230 PCIe NVMe SSDs (EC-NE30) offers a straightforward solution for handling your compact drives. Whether you need to prep an M.2 2230 SSD for your Steam Deck, ASUS ROG Ally, Surface Pro 9, or other portable gadgets, this enclosure has you covered.

How does it work? Simply insert the SSD, secure it with the latch, and connect via USB-C. This versatile enclosure is compatible with all major operating systems, including Windows, macOS, and Linux-based options, ensuring hassle-free setup with its integrated cable and plug-and-play functionality—no drivers needed.

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Montech has launched its first all-in-one (AIO) CPU water cooler, the HyperFlow ARGB. This AIO features a gemstones-inspired pump block and is equipped with a 3100 RPM pump, an aluminum radiator, and 120mm Metal Pro 12 fans, providing cooling performance for both Intel and AMD CPUs. The HyperFlow ARGB includes pre-installed fans, thermal paste, and a pre-connected 7-pin short cable for simplified installation and cable management.

The HyperFlow water pump is designed to keep systems cool under heavy loads, operating at a maximum speed of 3100 RPM. Its exterior is inspired by gemstones, adding a touch of elegance to setups. The pump is 53mm in height and operates at a noise level of 28 dB(A). The aluminum radiator, at 27mm thick, features a single-row fin design with 20 fins per inch (FPI), optimizing cooling power and reducing airflow resistance. This slim profile makes it suitable for compact setups.

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In a brief but surprising announcement on icq.com, it was revealed that ICQ, one of the pioneers of instant messaging, will be shutting down next month. This news comes as a shock to the many users who have relied on the service for decades. The announcement on ICQ's official website was concise, stating simply that the service would stop working on June 26, 2024.

ICQ, which stands for "I Seek You," was launched in 1996 and quickly became a staple of online communication. It introduced millions to the concept of instant messaging, long before the advent of social media and modern messaging apps. Over the years, ICQ evolved to keep up with technological advancements, but its core functionality remained the same: connecting people in real-time.

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As Memorial Day weekend approaches, many people might be considering a fresh start with their tech. For those looking to switch to Linux, Ultramarine 40 (available here) offers a compelling option. With its new features and improvements, this release could be the perfect way to dive into the world of Linux during the long weekend.

Ultramarine 40 introduces a new codename scheme, aiming to bring a fresh and engaging approach to its releases. The core team will rotate the responsibility of choosing codenames. This release, named after "Lost Umbrella" by inabakumori, marks the first under this new system.

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AiDot, known for its smart home technology, has launched the Linkind SL5 Smart Solar Spotlight. This product combines convenience, intelligence, and eco-friendliness in an easy-to-install device, making it a suitable option for any lawn or garden. Users can benefit from its smart features, solar technology, and straightforward installation along with adjustability and access to 16 million colors.

The SL5 is the first smart solar spotlight to offer group control functionality without the need for hubs or wires. Users can link multiple SL5s and control them simultaneously through the AiDot app, where they can manage color, temperature, brightness, and on-off timing. Additionally, the SL5 can synchronize with music, creating dynamic lighting effects for outdoor events.

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TUXEDO Computers has unveiled the 6th generation of its Stellaris line with the introduction of the TUXEDO Stellaris Slim 15, a fashionable thin and light gaming ultrabook that prioritizes high performance in a slim and stylish form. This ultrabook is the second of three new releases in the Stellaris Gen6 series.

Weighing just 2.1 kg and boasting a 15.3-inch format, the Stellaris Slim 15 features a high-quality aluminum chassis. Despite its compact footprint of 34.2 x 24.5 cm and a thickness of just 2.2 cm, this Linux laptop integrates upper-class to high-end tier processors from AMD or Intel, NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4060 or 4070 GPUs, up to 64GB (Intel) or 96GB (AMD) of DDR5-5600 RAM, and a maximum capacity 99Wh battery.

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BlueAnt's Soundblade desktop soundbar, first showcased at CES 2024, is now available for $199.99 from Amazon. Designed to combat the often subpar audio quality of monitor and laptop speakers, the Soundblade promises a convenient and powerful audio solution for desktop setups.

This under-monitor soundbar offers an elegant, space-saving design that integrates seamlessly with any monitor setup. Whether you're gaming, watching movies, streaming YouTube videos, or on conference calls, the Soundblade delivers high-definition, immersive sound with 120 watts of peak power, 2.1 channel sound, and a built-in 80mm neodymium subwoofer.

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HMD Global has launched its latest budget-friendly smartphone in the USA, the HMD Vibe, priced at an attractive $149.99. This new entrant in the budget segment looks like a great value -- if its lack of 5G isn’t a dealbreaker.

The HMD Vibe sports a sleek design and is available in a stylish Charcoal color. Measuring 6.45 inches in height, 2.96 inches in width, and 0.33 inches in depth, and weighing just 0.41 pounds, the phone is designed to be both comfortable and easy to handle. Its 6.56-inch display offers a 720 x 1612 resolution with a 20:9 aspect ratio, protected by toughened glass to ensure durability.

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When it comes to portable gaming, the ASUS ROG Ally is a powerhouse. But what if you could make it even better? Enter the Sabrent USB Type-C 3-Port Gaming Hub (HB-ROAY). This sleek, form-fitted accessory is designed specifically for the ASUS ROG Ally, offering a perfect blend of functionality and portability.

The Sabrent Gaming Hub is a plug-and-play device, meaning no drivers are needed. Simply attach it to your ASUS ROG Ally and enjoy immediate access to multiple ports. This hub features two USB-A ports, ideal for connecting portable storage, keyboards, mice, and more. Additionally, it includes an upstream USB-C port that connects directly to the Ally, providing high-speed data transfer at up to 5Gbps (USB 3.2 Gen 1x1).

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Sonos has announced the launch of its first-ever headphones, the Sonos Ace. Known for its developments in sound technology, Sonos is now expanding its audio expertise to headphones. Sonos fans are surely quite excited to finally have headphones from the company, as this has been a long-awaited addition to its product lineup.

The Sonos Ace is an over-the-ear Bluetooth headphone featuring lossless and spatial audio, Active Noise Cancellation (ANC), and Aware Mode. The headphones also offer a home theater experience with Sonos’ new TrueCinema technology.

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Microsoft has introduced two new Copilot+ PCs, the Surface Laptop 7th Edition and Surface Pro 11th Edition, designed primarily for business customers. Equipped with Snapdragon X Elite and Plus processors and running Windows 11 Pro, these devices promise faster performance and improved AI capabilities compared to the MacBook Air. The new Copilot+ PCs feature integrated NPUs, offering AI-driven tools like Recall, Live Captions with Translations, and Windows Studio Effects, which streamline daily tasks and improve collaboration.

The Surface Laptop 7th Edition offers impressive features such as brighter displays with thin bezels, enhanced connectivity with Wi-Fi 7, up to 22 hours of battery life, and multiple port options. Available in 13.8” and 15” sizes, it combines visual clarity with portability. The Surface Studio Camera and AI-powered Windows Studio Effects ensure clear and confident video calls, while the Omnisonic Speakers and AI-enhanced Studio Mics improve audio quality.

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