The Vergeabout 3 hours agoThe Apple Watch Series 10 is back on sale for a record low of $299The Apple Watch Series 10 is currently on sale at Amazon, Walmart, and Best Buy, matching its lowest price to date. The 42mm base configuration is available for $299 ($100 off), while the 46mm model with Wi-Fi is priced at $329 ($100 off). The Series 10 features a larger, brighter wide-angle OLED display, faster charging (0-80% in 30 minutes), Apple’s S10 SiP, FDA-cleared sleep apnea detection, and fitness-centric features. It is also thinner than previous models. Some features, like the Vitals app and Activity Ring pausing, are part of watchOS 11. The article also promotes signing up for Verge Deals to receive weekly deals on tested products.
The Vergeabout 3 hours agoIn Haste, you gotta go fastThe article reviews "Haste: Broken Worlds," a new 3D roguelike game for iOS that draws inspiration from Tiny Wings. In Haste, players control Zoe as she navigates procedurally generated levels filled with hills, obstacles, and enemies. The core gameplay involves maintaining speed by landing jumps effectively to earn bonuses and avoid hazards. The game incorporates roguelike elements such as permanent upgrades and map-based level selection. While the reviewer praises the game's fast-paced flow state and engaging gameplay, they critique the boss battles and lengthy character conversations for disrupting the momentum. Overall, the reviewer enjoyed the game but found the changes in pace frustrating.
The Vergeabout 3 hours agoGoogle is in more danger than ever of being broken upGoogle is facing significant antitrust challenges in the US, with recent court rulings finding the company guilty of monopolizing both the online search and ad tech markets. The Department of Justice (DOJ) is pursuing remedies that could fundamentally reshape Google's business, including potentially forcing the sale of its Chrome browser, mandating data sharing with competitors, and requiring government notification of AI investments. A trial is set to begin to determine the appropriate remedies for the search monopoly, while the ad tech case will follow. Google has vowed to appeal, but the legal process could take years and potentially reach the Supreme Court. The outcome of these cases represents the most significant antitrust threat to a major tech company in the US in decades, potentially opening up opportunities for competitors like Microsoft and impacting partnerships like the one between Google and Apple. The DOJ aims to ensure any remedies are future-proof, particularly concerning AI. The ad tech remedies may involve splitting Google's ad server (DFP) and ad exchange (AdX). The resolution of these cases could have a substantial impact on the internet economy and the open web.
The Vergeabout 4 hours agoInside WWE’s divide-and-conquer YouTube strategyWWE has expanded its YouTube presence by launching a dedicated channel called WWE Vault, featuring classic live events, full matches, and rare archival footage. This strategic move allows the main WWE YouTube channel to focus on current programming while catering to fans' nostalgia. The Vault has been well-received, offering content previously unavailable since the WWE Network's transition to Peacock. Key to the Vault's appeal is the "Found Footage" series, showcasing unreleased backstage moments and live event clips. WWE plans to launch similar channels for WCW and ECW, aiming to provide clear destinations for specific content and reach a wider audience. Steve Braband, who oversees WWE’s digital team, emphasizes the cohesive digital strategy behind the Vault, involving a dedicated team managing the content.
The Vergeabout 4 hours agoThe creator of Papers, Please wants developers to make weirder, more personal gamesLucas Pope, the creator of acclaimed games like "Papers, Please" and "Return of the Obra Dinn," received the Pioneer Award at the Game Developers Choice Awards. In his acceptance speech, he encouraged developers to create unique, personal, and experimental games. Pope shared his philosophy of game development, emphasizing the importance of creating games that he personally wants to play, citing "Papers, Please" as an example of a game born from his specific interest in document-based gameplay. He applied the same approach to "Return of the Obra Dinn," trusting that others would share his passion. His latest game, "Mars After Midnight," is a Playdate title designed to be more accessible for his children. Pope also discussed how his children's perspectives influence his game design. He is considering returning to 2D game development for future projects and is exploring new topics and mechanics, though nothing is ready to be announced.
The Vergeabout 5 hours agoSurge pricing, the scourge of ridehailing, is evolving for the robotaxi eraThe article discusses the use of surge pricing by robotaxi companies like Waymo, questioning its justification since it cannot increase the supply of vehicles as it does with traditional ride-hailing services like Uber and Lyft. Surge pricing, initially intended to attract more drivers during peak demand, now primarily serves to suppress demand in the robotaxi context, potentially disadvantaging those who cannot afford the higher fares. The piece explores arguments for and against surge pricing in the autonomous vehicle era, highlighting concerns about fairness and accessibility. It also considers potential future scenarios where robotaxi fleets could be augmented by human drivers or shared rides to better manage demand and supply.
The Vergeabout 8 hours agoThe new Star Wars strategy game launches in 2026Disney and EA have announced that Star Wars Zero Company is slated for release in 2026. The game will allow players to control Hawks, a former Republic officer, leading an elite squad during the Clone Wars. Players can customize Hawks and recruit team members from various Star Wars classes and species, forging bonds to unlock combat synergies. The game will be available on PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X/S.
The Vergeabout 17 hours agoHouse Democrats: DOGE is building a ‘master database’ of Americans’ sensitive informationA Congressional Committee has received reports indicating that the organization DOGE is attempting to create a cross-agency master database by combining sensitive information from agencies like the SSA, IRS, and HHS. The Committee is concerned that DOGE's methods disregard cybersecurity and privacy considerations, potentially violating the law. DOGE engineers have reportedly attempted to create specialized computers with full access to multiple agency networks, posing significant operational security risks and undermining the government's zero-trust cybersecurity architecture. Additionally, individuals associated with DOGE are allegedly using laptops with access to different agency systems to combine databases maintained separately by federal agencies.
The Vergeabout 18 hours agoThe government doesn’t understand MetaThe article discusses the Federal Trade Commission's (FTC) antitrust case against Meta, focusing on the agency's attempt to break up the company by unwinding its acquisitions of Instagram and WhatsApp. The author, who observed Mark Zuckerberg's testimony, argues that the FTC's definition of the relevant market, "personal social networking services," is flawed and excludes key competitors like TikTok and YouTube. The author contends that the FTC's case fails to address the core of Meta's power: network effects. Breaking up the company might create short-term competition, but the author suggests that enabling users to transfer their profiles and friend lists to other services would be a more effective long-term solution. The author concludes that the FTC's approach is missing the point and not targeting the true source of Meta's dominance.
The Vergeabout 19 hours agoTesla’s Cybertruck is getting deeper discounts and production cutsTesla is offering significant discounts on new and used Cybertrucks. Discounts on new Cybertrucks, including the Foundation Series and demo models, can reach up to $10,000 or more. Some models may not qualify for the $7,500 federal tax credit due to age or price, but available discounts can exceed that amount, with one Cyberbeast model discounted by nearly $12,000. Used Cybertruck prices are also declining, with the average price on CarGurus dropping from over $100,000 in November and December to around $85,000 currently.
The Vergeabout 19 hours agoThe best instant cameras you can buy right nowThe article is a comprehensive buying guide for instant cameras, comparing various models from brands like Fujifilm, Polaroid, Kodak, and Leica. It highlights the appeal of instant cameras, emphasizing their ability to capture tangible memories quickly. The author details testing methodologies, focusing on print quality, ease of use, affordability, and suitability for different users. The Fujifilm Instax Mini 12 is recommended as the best overall instant camera due to its balance of these factors. Other cameras are recommended for specific needs, such as the Instax Mini Evo for creative control, the Kodak Mini Shot 3 Retro for social occasions, the Polaroid Now Plus for retro enthusiasts, and the Polaroid Go for portability. The article also mentions upcoming instant camera models from Polaroid and Fujifilm, providing a forward look at the instant camera market.
The Vergeabout 22 hours agoCops can’t do cell tower mass surveillance ‘dumps,’ court rulesA federal judge in Nevada has ruled that obtaining cellular records through "tower dumps" is unconstitutional, violating the Fourth Amendment's protection against unreasonable searches and seizures. Tower dumps involve authorities accessing cell records that pinged off a specific tower during a particular time, potentially exposing the data of thousands of individuals. Despite deeming the practice unconstitutional, Judge Miranda Du denied a motion to suppress the use of these records as evidence in the case against Cory Spurlock, who faces charges related to a murder-for-hire conspiracy and conspiracy to distribute marijuana. The court cited the "good faith exception" and the fact that it was the first within the Ninth Circuit to reach this conclusion. A similar ruling was made in Mississippi in February, where a federal judge prevented the FBI from pulling information from cell towers. The Department of Justice has appealed the Mississippi decision.
The Vergeabout 22 hours agoKia's affordable EV4 will still be imported to the USKia has announced that its EV4 electric sedan will launch in the US early next year. The US version will offer two battery configurations: a 58.3kWh battery with an estimated range of 235 miles, and an 81.4kWh battery with an estimated range of 330 miles. The EV4 will feature Tesla’s NACS charging port, enabling charging from 10 to 80 percent in 31 minutes at a DC fast charging station. It also includes vehicle-to-load capability for powering devices and has 30 inches of side-by-side screens running Kia’s ccNC software with apps like YouTube.
The Vergeabout 23 hours agoAMD’s Ryzen 7 7800X3D is the star of Micro Center’s discounted PC part bundleMicro Center is offering an in-store-only deal on an AMD hardware bundle for gaming PC enthusiasts. The bundle, priced at $499.99 (originally $579.99), includes the Ryzen 7 7800X3D CPU, an Asus TUF B650-E motherboard, and 32GB of G.Skill Flare X5 DDR5-6,000MHz RAM. Purchasing the bundle saves customers $175 compared to buying the components separately. The 7800X3D, while a last-generation processor, remains a strong choice for gaming and uses the AM5 socket, which is expected to be supported by AMD for future CPU generations. The motherboard features multiple M.2 slots, USB-C support, and Wi-Fi 6E. Customers can opt for Corsair Vengeance RAM for an additional $15.
The Vergeabout 23 hours agoTarget announces when its Switch 2 preorders will kick offTarget will begin taking preorders for the Nintendo Switch 2 in the US on April 24th at 12AM ET for consoles, games, and accessories. This follows Nintendo's announcement of the new preorder date, which was originally scheduled for April 9th but delayed due to concerns about tariffs and market conditions. Nintendo confirmed the Switch 2's starting price will remain $449.99, with the Mario Kart World bundle at $499.99. However, accessories like the Joy-Con and Pro Controller will see a $5 price increase. Nintendo also stated that further price adjustments are possible in the future based on market conditions. The Verge has reached out to other retailers, including Amazon, Best Buy, GameStop, and Walmart, for information on their Switch 2 preorder plans.
The Vergeabout 23 hours agoJudge pauses mass firing of consumer protection workersA judge has temporarily blocked the termination of nearly 1,500 Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) employees, questioning whether the Trump administration violated a previous court order. Judge Amy Berman Jackson scheduled an evidentiary hearing for April 28th after the CFPB's Acting Director, Russell Vought, announced the mass layoffs. The National Treasury Employees Union (NTEU), representing CFPB employees, alleges the layoffs violate a March court order that required terminations to result from individual assessments of employee roles. The NTEU claims that the agency's privacy, security, and cybersecurity units were particularly targeted. Former CFPB Chief Technologist Erie Meyer expressed concern that the layoffs would jeopardize consumer data protection. The judge has instructed the administration to provide documents to the union regarding its actions.
The Vergeabout 24 hours agoHow to scan a QR code with your phoneThis article discusses the widespread adoption and functionality of QR codes. Invented in the 1990s, QR codes gained prominence during the pandemic and are now used for various purposes, including ordering food, connecting to Wi-Fi, shopping online, and accessing tickets. QR codes store small amounts of data or redirect users to websites or app pages. Modern smartphones have built-in QR code scanners accessible through the camera app. Users should be cautious of potentially malicious QR codes that could lead to phishing attacks. The article also provides instructions on how to scan QR codes using both Android and iOS devices, including scanning from saved images using Google Lens and Apple's Live Text feature.
The Verge1 day agoApple replaced Mythic Quest's series finale after the show was cancelledApple TV Plus has cancelled the series Mythic Quest after its fourth season and Side Quest spinoff. The cancellation was unexpected, especially given the open-ended nature of the series finale, "Heaven and Hell." To address unresolved plotlines, Apple released an updated version of the episode designed to tie up loose ends. Simultaneously, Apple removed the original version of "Heaven and Hell" from its platform, meaning viewers can no longer access the initial series finale.
The Verge1 day agoiRobot’s Roomba Combo 10 Max is nearly 50 percent off for Verge readersThe Roomba Combo 10 Max robovac/mop hybrid is on sale at Wellbots for $741.47 with the promo code VERGE47 until April 19th. Key features include a multifunction charging dock that empties the bin, washes the mop, and refills the mopping tank. It's designed for pet owners with strong suction, dual rubber roller brushes, and AI-powered obstacle detection to avoid pet waste; iRobot offers a free replacement if it fails to avoid pet waste within the first year. It identifies and cleans the dirtiest rooms using Dirt Detect and can lift its mopping pad to avoid wetting carpets. The Roomba supports the Matter standard for smart home integration and is compatible with Amazon Alexa, Google Home, and Apple Home. iRobot also provides readily available replaceable parts for self-repair. The article also mentions deals on the SteelSeries Arctis Pro Wireless gaming headset at Best Buy for $139.99, a refurbished Echo Show 5 at Woot for $27.99, and the Lego Rivendell set at Best Buy for $424.95 when using the mobile app.
The Verge1 day agoCovid.gov now points to a 'lab leak' conspiracy websiteThe US government website Covid.gov, formerly a resource for COVID-19 information and free test orders, now redirects to a page promoting the lab leak theory of the virus's origin. The altered website features a banner with the words "Lab Leak" and a photo of Donald Trump. It alleges the virus originated from a Chinese lab due to inadequate biosafety levels and accuses the Biden administration of misleading the public and demonizing alternative treatments. It also claims the WHO yielded to pressure from the Chinese Communist Party. The change occurred sometime after April 10th, and the page now links to a House Oversight Committee report supporting the lab leak theory. This change aligns with the Trump administration's efforts since February to remove information from federal websites that do not align with its beliefs, particularly regarding climate change, racial equity, and gender identity.
