Author: Eternity Lab

The UK government is launching a call for evidence on how technology, changing market dynamics and regulation are shaping investment in mobile networks.

The call for evidence was introduced as an important step in securing a “comprehensive” view of how the UK mobile market was changing, and identifying what more can be done to support investment, innovation and competition for the benefit of consumers and business. It will look to assess the impact of factors affecting investment in high-quality connectivity by 2030, identify actions to support the sector to achieve government objectives over the next decade, and assess how the regulatory framework can be improved to support investment, innovation and competition.

As part of this, the government is announcing an action plan based on four key principles: drive investment in comprehensive, high-quality connectivity by 2030; deliver for consumers; support innovation and growth across the economy; and provide secure and resilient connectivity.

Introducing the call, Liz Lloyd, parliamentary under-secretary of state at the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology and minister for digital economy, said that in an era of rapid technological transformation, new technologies and wireless services were critical to day-to-day lives, the economy and society in general.

Lloyd added that digital infrastructure is the core enabler of this transformation, and that it was crucial the UK’s telecommunications networks were ready for the future. She stressed that mobile and other digital networks, such as fibre networks, will drive growth and innovation across the country, deliver modern public services, increasingly underpin critical national infrastructure, and be essential for ensuring people everywhere were digitally included.

To that end, she said, its ambition remains for all populated areas to have access to higher-quality standalone 5G by 2030, and the immediate challenge was to secure investment to deliver this ambition by 2030, driving digital inclusion and ensuring business could depend on the connectivity that underpins modern life.  

“Our coverage ambition goes hand in hand with affordability of access so that everyone can carry out essential online activities and, aligned with the government’s tech adoption agenda, supports take-up of premium 5G-enabled services across the economy,” said Lloyd.

Looking forward, Lloyd said the government must also anticipate how the mobile market – and technologies that underpin it – will evolve, and what this means for its objectives over the next decade, shaping a framework that supports innovation, investment and the needs of future users.

In its action plan, the minister referenced the digital inclusion action plan, in which access to secure and reliable connectivity was seen as the foundation to ensuring that people everywhere can get online. That said, delivering these benefits was dependent on substantial investment in mobile networks.

To date, the UK mobile network operators have been investing heavily in the country’s mobile networks, averaging £2bn annually between 2020 and 2024. In particular, as a result of the merger between the two component parties, VodafoneThree has committed to investing £11bn in creating its merged network, while competitors BTEE and Virgin Media O2 have also planned to invest in upgrading their networks. For example, BTEE has an ambition to deliver standalone 5G to 99% of the population by the end of 2030.

Lloyd assured that the UK government would support industry to deliver this investment, including through removing barriers to deployment and ensuring digital connectivity is appropriately considered and built into new infrastructure projects from the outset. However, she warned that the UK mobile sector stands at a critical inflection point of rapid market changes, coupled with persistent investment challenges.

Lloyd said governments and regulators across the globe are considering how their telecoms policies and regulatory frameworks can best drive innovation and investment in this new era. That, she emphasised, is why it is necessary to act immediately to understand the challenges, safeguard the UK’s international competitiveness, and deliver the high-quality, nationwide connectivity the UK relies on.

The call to action and the four-point plan were designed to realise the potential of the mobile sector, and the UK government said it recognised that doing so would require concerted and coordinated action across government and industry, to deliver the coverage needed in this decade and shape the mobile market for the future.

The government said that, in creating its call to evidence, it welcomed responses from across the ecosystem, including mobile operators, infrastructure providers, technology companies, local authorities, public sector bodies, civil society organisations, academia and investors.The call will run until 11:59pm on 21 April 2026.

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One of the key trends of the comms market over the past year has been the rapid spread of non-terrestrial networks (NTNs), particularly around their usage within the internet of things (IoT). Now, research from satellite communications Viasat has found that providing ubiquitous direct-to-device (D2D) connectivity – such as from satellites – will enable the deployment of “game-changing” technologies across critical industries such as agriculture, mining and energy.

The great connectivity convergence: NTN in industrial IoT study surveyed 600 IoT decision-makers from five major industries (agriculture, energy, transport and logistics, mining and utilities). It asked professionals about new D2D IoT devices, which enable organisations to track, monitor and control operations by sharing data over satellite and cellular without the need for existing, dedicated satellite terminals.

Among the topline findings was that D2D is all set for mass adoption in industrial IoT within 18 months, with rising urgency among decision-makers to adopt D2D IoT devices in their organisations (91% of respondents).

Furthermore, the majority (90%) of those surveyed agreed that D2D will accelerate the roll-out of IoT globally. Current terrestrial IoT users are particularly keen to tap into the technology, with almost a third (32%) planning to adopt D2D within the next six months. However, while intent is high, most respondents (81%) said adoption in IoT would only be feasible after the next one-to-two years.

Across all IoT decision-makers surveyed, over a quarter intend to adopt D2D within six months, over two-thirds within 12 months, and the vast majority (91%) within 18 months. On top of this, 89% of organisations said they would consider replacing their current IoT connectivity with D2D within the next two-to-three years.

Respondents reported high confidence that new applications can have significant benefits, with respondents reporting D2D could provide an advantage due to its smaller form factor (61%), ability to support large scale deployments (59%), and in deployments in areas without cellular coverage (55%).

The survey highlighted that most beneficial use cases provided through D2D include crop storage monitoring in agriculture (33%), automated haulage vehicles in mining (36%), vehicular tracking and route optimisation in transport (43%), water infrastructure monitoring in utilities (43%), and wellhead monitoring in energy (33%).

Within the context of their existing IoT roll-out, 78% of respondents said their organisations’ progress has increased over the past 12 months. Organisations are also increasingly integrating satellite into their deployments. More than half of organisations (55%) reported using satellite in their IoT estates, a rise from the 41% reported in the study taken a year ago.

Assessing the trends revealed in the latest study, Andy Kessler, vice-president of enterprise at Viasat, noted that organisations were rightly excited by the potential for standards-based D2D and are planning to deploy new technology quickly and at scale.

“The excitement makes sense because we know new devices can lower the barrier to entry for organisations by reducing the cost, complexity and physical size of IoT terminal,” he said. “But while companies rightly want to move fast, the change represents a major shift. It’s our job to work with our partner ecosystem and customers to help them access the safety, efficiency and sustainability benefits satellite-enabled IoT can bring.”

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With its flagship MWC exhibition about to open its doors in a matter of weeks, global mobile trade body the GSMA has announced a raft of technology partners for the CircuitX project for which it is a joint partner, and which aims to provide a practical blueprint for how interoperable connectivity can scale across smart venues and live events.

Established in March 2025, CircuitX comprises a three-year initiative designed to champion mobile technology across motorsports and transform the circuit experience with connectivity.

It is led by the GSMA’s innovation hub, GSMA Foundry; Fira Circuit, a company formed and managed by Fira de Barcelona to transform the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya into a centre for innovation and next-generation motorsport experiences; and Mobile World Capital, a public-private foundation that promotes the digital development of society.

CircuitX’s project will cover five core areas to highlight where mobile connectivity can support innovation across motorsport and large-scale events. This includes travel and navigation including real-time journey management and traffic optimisation; security and safety with enhanced emergency communication and crowd monitoring; fan movement based on smart venue navigation and crowd flow management; fan experience comprising personalised content, live data and immersive experiences; and race telemetry, with secure, efficient data transmission for teams and fans. 

“CircuitX is more than a showcase; it’s a blueprint for the future of connected experiences,” said GSMA CEO John Hoffman. “By integrating mobile technology into motorsport and entertainment, GSMA and its partners aim to set new standards for safety, efficiency and fan engagement. This reinforces the pivotal role of mobile connectivity as a catalyst for ongoing innovation.”

A showcase demonstration at Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya and MWC26 Barcelona, set for 1 March, is set to feature participation from leading motor racing teams and technology collaborators to showcase tele-driven vehicles, in-race telemetry, live broadcast, drone safety and security measures, as well as immersive augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) experiences for fans.

The showcase will feature leading partners showcasing what is described as advanced mobile technology and connectivity services, supported by Al Kamel, Semtech & Domo Broadcast Systems, Barcelona Drone Center, Elmo, Ericsson, Into Reality, MatSing, NTT Data, Prospeed, Telefónica and Formula E.

Formula E’s participation will encompass sustainability-driven racing innovations, integrating connectivity for enhanced telemetry and fan engagement. The Gen3 EVO Formula E race car demonstrates its capabilities on the track, able to accelerate from 0 to 60mph in just 1.82 seconds.

Joining the initiative as the official connectivity partner, Telefónica will provide 5G network coverage at both locations. IT services provider Al Kamel will show how ultra-low latency networks transform race operations, from instant incident detection and dynamic race strategies, and will also offer what it said was a glimpse into the future of precision motorsport management supported by Semtech and Domo Broadcast Systems.

Barcelona Drone Center will showcase its devices that see use in crowd monitoring, emergency response and perimeter security, using advanced Unmanned Aircraft System technology and regulatory expertise. These are regarded as critical for modern smart venues.

Ericsson will bring its private 5G technology to deliver a secure, high-performance network tailored to the device mobility demands of motorsport environments – essential for telemetry, video streaming and safety-critical systems, while Elmo will demonstrate real-time teledriving of vehicles over public 5G networks, including stable remote operation at higher driving speeds, enabled by network quality APIs that ensure low latency, reliability and service continuity for safety-critical vehicle control.

NTT Data will show AI-enabled applications, including services that enhance operations and safety, as well as mobile applications that leverage live data and AI-driven insights to deliver a digital-first fan experience both on- and off-site.

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A couple of months after Apple started testing iOS 26.3, the company is finally releasing it alongside iPadOS 26.3, macOS Tahoe 26.3, watchOS 26.3, tvOS 26.3, and visionOS 26.3. Unlike previous software updates, this one is more focused on bug fixes and general stability. Still, iOS 26.3 adds a new iOS-Android transfer feature, improved privacy settings, and three exclusive European functions that Americans won’t be getting.

The lack of several new features could be explained by the fact that Apple is readying a major iOS 26.4 update, which is rumored to have a super-powered Siri enhanced by Google’s Gemini AI, new emojis, and more. That said, while iOS 26.3 might not feel groundbreaking for most of us, it’s an important step towards iOS 26.4, which is expected to be released around April.

For example, iOS 26.3 is splitting Weather and Astronomy wallpapers in two different sections. While it’s unclear why Apple decided to make that move, it shows how little the system has changed. Here’s everything you need to know about the top iOS 26.3 features that just arrived for iPhone users.

Easier iOS-Android data transfer

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So far, Apple and Google have relied on its Move to iOS and Android Switch apps to help users transfer data between operating systems. Now, both companies are making the process more straightforward by releasing a new standard for transferring data. With iOS 26.3, iPhone users can place their phone side-by-side with an Android phone to start the process (and vice-versa).

Right now, Apple and Google allow users to transfer photos, messages, notes, apps, passwords, mail accounts, phone number, voice memos, and WhatsApp content. In the future, the two companies might offer additional features that could be transfer between one system to the other, such as health data and Bluetooth-paired devices, which continue to be tied to their original software.

Both devices need to be connected to the same Wi-Fi and have Bluetooth enabled. Once the new device senses the other, there will be a QR code displayed so users can initiate the transfer.

Hide your location setting

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Probably the most interesting feature of the iOS 26.3 cycle is a new privacy setting that lets you hide your exact location. Unfortunately, this feature is still limited to devices with Apple’s own 5G modems, including the iPhone 16e and iPhone Air, though that list will expand once the upcoming iPhone 17e and iPhone 18 devices are released. The 17e is expected to feature Apple’s C1X chip, but all iPhone 18 models should get Apple’s future C2 modem.

This extra privacy layer makes it harder for cell service providers to know precisely where a user is at any give time. Instead of providing your exact address, this feature could only identify your approximate neighborhood; without interfering with apps that intentionally share your exact location, such as the Find My app.

The only “issue” so far is that hiding your location is not only limited to a few devices, but also a few mobile carriers, including Telekom in Germany, EE and BT in the United Kingdom, Boost Mobile in the U.S., and AIS and True in Thailand. If you have a compatible phone and carrier, just go to the Settings app > Cellular > Cellular Data Options, and you’ll find it there.

Exclusive European features

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If you’re in Europe and you also have a European Apple Account, you’re getting four new additional features with iOS 26.3. The first one is that Apple will need to offer an AirPods-like smooth pairing for third-party headphones. While an app might be required for additional features, accessory makers will be able to use a similar system that Apple has for AirPods, so you just have to approach the new earbuds to your phone to get a fast-pair.

The second update gives developers the ability to use NFC capabilities in their apps, so instead of relying on the Apple Wallet, a bank could let you use a digital card to make payments using NFC from inside their app. Lastly, Apple is allowing other devices to better communicate with an iPhone, so data transfers like AirDrop, AirPlay, or Continuity Camera can be implemented to other devices, instead of being exclusive to Apple devices. While implementation from developers might take a while, iOS 26.3 finally unlocks those perks to them. 

Besides those features, Apple tested the ability to reply to messages using a third-party smartwatch. By choosing Apple’s new Notification Forwarding feature, users could react to notifications using a smartwatch that’s not an Apple Watch. However, with the release of iOS 26.3, this function remained in beta. Apple has up until June 1st to implement this change.

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A report in early November claimed Samsung would unveil the Galaxy S26 series on February 25 in San Francisco. The same date appeared in Samsung marketing materials that leaked in late January. But the announcement that many Galaxy S fans have been waiting for has arrived. Samsung on Wednesday confirmed that the Galaxy S26 Unpacked launch event will be held on February 25 in San Francisco, opening up a registration page where consumers can sign up ahead of the preorder process for early savings. The Unpacked press conference will be streamed live, just like other major Galaxy S launch media events. The livestream starts at 10:00 a.m. PST (1:00 p.m. EST).

But Galaxy S fans looking forward to the first Unpacked event of the year won’t have to wait two more weeks to see the innovations Samsung has prepared for the Galaxy S26 series. WinFuture’s Roland Quandt, who routinely leaks Samsung secrets before major product launches, has obtained the full specs for the Galaxy S26, Galaxy S26 Plus, and Galaxy S26 Ultra, sharing them in a detailed report. The hardware details are similar to previous leaks and won’t surprise those Galaxy S owners who keep tabs on all Samsung rumors. However, they may upset those Samsung fans who wished for bigger upgrades from the Galaxy S26 series. If Quandt’s information is accurate, the Galaxy S26 series will offer minimal upgrades over its predecessor. If that’s not enough, Galaxy S26 prices may be somewhat higher, a claim Quandt also made a few days ago.

Galaxy S26 series specs

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According to the report, the three Galaxy S26 phones should feature similar designs to last year’s models. The OLED screens are similar, at 6.3, 6.7, and 6.9 inches, featuring adaptive refresh rates (1-120 Hz) and Corning Gorilla Armor 2 glass. All phones should start with 12GB of RAM and 256GB of storage. The standard model and the Plus also offer 512GB storage, while the Galaxy S26 Ultra is the only handset listed in a 16GB version, which is paired with 1TB of storage. The 128GB storage tier that was available for Galaxy S25 phones should not be available for the Galaxy S26 series. The base and Plus models will reportedly feature Samsung’s 2nm Exynos 2600 chip, while the Galaxy S26 Ultra will come with Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chip.

The battery sizes are unchanged for the Plus and Ultra (at 4,900 mAh and 5,000 mAh, respectively), but the base Galaxy S26 model features a 4,300 mAh battery, 300 mAh larger than its predecessor. Charging speeds are listed at 25W, 45W, and 60W. The three phones may not have magnets on the back, but a recent report claimed the Galaxy S26 series will support MagSafe-like Qi2 charging via magnetic cases. WinFuture notes that Qi2 charging speeds should reach 15W for the smaller handsets and 25W for the Ultra.

The report indicates that the camera upgrades are largely absent for the smaller models. The rear cameras will reportedly offer 50-megapixel wide, 12-megapixel ultra-wide, and 10-megapixel telephoto (3x optical zoom) lenses. The Galaxy S26 Ultra should have four sensors with similar resolution to the Galaxy S25 Ultra: 200-megapixel wide, 50-megapixel ultra-wide, 50-megapixel periscope lens (5x optical zoom), and 10-megapixel telephoto lens (3x optical zoom). This year’s Ultra might also feature larger apertures, which could improve low-light photography.

The Galaxy S26 prices

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WinFuture also lists the purported price structure for Europe. The 256GB Galaxy S26 may cost €999 ($1,189), similar to the Galaxy S25’s €959 ($1,153) price tag. The 256GB Galaxy S26 Plus would be priced at €1,269 ($1,510), compared to €1,149 ($1,367) for the Galaxy S25 Plus. This may be a mistake from WinFuture. The 512GB Galaxy S25 Plus cost €1,269 last year. Finally, the 256GB Galaxy S26 Ultra should cost €1,469 ($1,748), almost matching the 256GB Galaxy S25 Ultra’s €1,449 ($1,724) price. It’s important to remember that European prices include tax. The direct conversions to U.S. dollars will not give you the official U.S. Galaxy S26 price structure, assuming Quandt’s figures are accurate.

However, some Galaxy S fans may not appreciate these prices. The removal of the 128GB storage option will not sit well with buyers looking for the cheapest possible Galaxy S flagship. They’ll have to spend more money than they may have expected. Reserving the Galaxy S26 of your choice before the Unpacked event will help you score $30 in Samsung Credit. Preorders may bring additional perks to early buyers that could make the higher starting price tags more tolerable. While those deals have not leaked, WinFuture did mention the purported color options for the three phones: white, blue, black, and purple.

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3D printing has become more and more accessible over the years, and 3D printers are more reliable than ever. Entry-level 3D printers typically cost less than $100, and the printing process itself is pretty straightforward once you have a design file loaded. You can even tap into some of the best sites for 3D printing to access printing projects and open-source models. All of this, combined with the fact that there are a lot of handy 3D printing accessories on the market, makes adding some 3D printing projects to your agenda worthwhile. With the right projects on hand, you can even look at 3D printing as a way to save yourself some money.

While consumer-level 3D printers are as reliable as ever, they do have their limitations. They can’t print metal objects, for example, and they’re limited to printing objects that can fit within the printer’s build volume. But there’s still a lot you can do with a 3D printer, and we’ve devised some projects that can help you tap into that idea of saving some money on objects around the house. Whether you’re a tech enthusiast who wants to add some accessories to your lineup of devices or a do-it-yourselfer looking for a creative project to take on, the 3D printing projects below will allow you to do so with some extra money in your pocket.

Smartphone and tablet stands

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Anyone with a smartphone or tablet is likely to have a glance at such a device regularly throughout the day. A desktop or table-top stand for these devices is a great way to keep an eye on notifications and other necessary distractions. These can even be used to keep your mobile device upright during video chats with friends, family, and colleagues. A couple of issues with these stands, however, are that cheap models tend to be just that. They don’t always offer much build quality, and while more expensive stands can offer nice features like charging capabilities, they are also often out of the price range of everyday mobile device users.

A quality smartphone stand can range from $10 to $25, and tablet stands can cost even more. But if you’re just looking for something basic to keep your mobile device upright on your desk while you work, you can 3D print a custom stand for what amounts to just pennies in filament cost. You can download or create designs that include simple angled stands, as well as adjustable models with multiple viewing angles. Because the material cost is so low with a 3D printer, you can experiment with different designs until you find something that perfectly suits your desktop setup.

Toys

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Not only can children’s toys be expensive, but they also break constantly, and kids outgrow them quickly. In the event of something breaking, it can be difficult to track down a single replacement part, particularly for toys like action figures and board games. And in regard to costs, even simple generic toys like building blocks and toy vehicles can cost $25 or more. The good news is that many toys that can be found on shelves these days can also be made with a 3D printer.

In fact, 3D printing new toys can be a nearly free project of its own. Free design files are available for popular toy categories all across the internet. Everything from sandbox toys like buckets and shovels to action figures of animals, ghosts, and dinosaurs is among them. Even designs for toys like drones can be downloaded and implemented at no cost. A single spool of 3D printing filament can produce dozens of small toys, and with a little creativity, replacement parts for broken toys you already have around the house.

Drawer organizers

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If you found 3D printing projects that revolve around toys and tech accessories of interest, you may also be interested in a way to keep such items organized. As tech enthusiasts know, cables, adapters, earbuds, and other accessories can pile up, scatter around, and become clutter quickly. The same can be said about toys, as anyone with children can likely attest. But generic drawer organizers don’t always provide the proper space for such items, and storage containers can take up more space than a drawer allows for.

But with a 3D printer, you can print your own custom drawer organizers that are designed to fit a specific space and store specific items. There are hundreds of downloadable organizer designs available across the internet, and many of them focus specifically on drawer organization. You can even design your own modular drawer organizers that stack on top of one another in order to fully optimize different drawers. This is also something you could apply to items far beyond tech and toys, as kitchen drawers, art drawers, and utility drawers always have their share of loose items that need organizing.

Kitchen items

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A lot of tools for use around the kitchen come in plastic options, which makes them ideal candidates for 3D printing projects. Small items will be easy for a smaller 3D printer, and they include things like bottle openers, forks, spoons, and butter knives, as well as small storage containers for liquids and baking ingredients. Those with a larger 3D printer can consider things like spatulas, soup ladles, juicers, even plates and bowls. These items can range in price from a couple of dollars to well over $40, depending on the level of quality you’re looking at.

But if you don’t need the latest designs from the most stylish lifestyle brands, 3D printing items that can come in handy around the kitchen will leave you with plenty of money in your pocket. Beyond cooking utensils, you can also find 3D printing designs for various racks and storage bins for those utensils. These storage solutions can be designed to attach to walls or the inside of cabinet doors, to fit awkward cabinet spaces, or to stack vertically and maximize counter space.

Auto parts

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Even though the auto industry is using 3D printing for car parts, you aren’t going to be able to 3D print mechanical parts with a consumer-level 3D printer. What you can do with such a device, however, is keep different parts of your interior up to date and accessorized. If you have an older vehicle, some of the interior plastic or vinyl components may have deteriorated over time. With some experience and know-how, things like knobs, dials, and even stereo buttons can be 3D printed and installed. This can offer substantial savings, as anything purchased from a dealer or manufacturer can be more than most will want to spend on such parts.

But you can also improve upon your vehicle’s existing interior, whether it’s older or straight off the lot. If you utilize your smartphone to interact with your vehicle’s stereo and display, clips to keep the cables organized can be 3D printed. So can smartphone holders if you’re able to find or create the right design for it. Customized cup holders tailored for different bottles and coffee cup sizes can also be 3D printed. In fact, there is a wide variety of auto accessories that a 3D printer can save you money on, and it won’t take much more than a few minutes browsing the inventory of auto parts stores to start getting creative with it.

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The world of malware is always expanding as bad actors come up with new ways to try to swindle people out of their money and data. However, one of the newest threats out there, a spyware platform called ZeroDayRAT, is certainly one of the most terrifying that has been seen in recent years. The reason that it’s so terrifying is that when a device is infected with this platform, it gives the bad actors with a connection to that device unfettered access to everything — from camera livestreams to microphone access, and even a full breakdown of all the notifications and text messages that phone has received.

And this malware isn’t just locked to one platform. It can infect both iOS and Android devices. Of course, this isn’t the first terrifying mobile malware that has been seen, which is partly why Google is looking at changing how sideloading apps on Android works, and why Apple doesn’t want iPhone users installing apps outside the App Store. The best way to avoid this is to stay vigilant and not click on links from untrusted sources or install apps outside of the App Store or Google Play Store.

While other malware exists on Android and iOS, one of the most prominently troubling facts surrounding ZeroDayRAT is that it doesn’t need any technical expertise to be used and gives those who utilize it so much access to the devices they infect. Further, iVerify reports that it is being sold openly on platforms like Telegram.

A full device overview

One of the most horrifying things about ZeroDayRAT is the fact that it gives the attacker so much access to information in one place. According to the platform’s breakdown, infected devices begin to transmit almost all of their data to the backend. This means that the attackers can see a full breakdown of all the notifications coming through, a fully searchable inbox for text messages, and even information such as the device model, the OS it is running, and the current battery and lock status.

The dashboard also provides the malware runners with information through a live activity timeline, which is visible directly on the first screen of the platform’s dashboard. Reports indicate that this is more than enough information to profile the owner of the infected device, as it lists who they have been talking to, what their most used apps are, and what network they are most active on. Additionally, it also reveals any intercepted messages from the banking services installed on the device, as well as personal contact details.

This isn’t all there is, though, as the dashboard also gives the bad actor full access to the device’s GPS location, including an embedded Google Maps viewer with extensive location history information. Apps like WhatsApp also get their own tabs, allowing the user to quickly look through any notifications that have come from those applications.

Moving beyond passive data gathering

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iVerify also notes that the bad actors can take a more active approach to how they collect data through keylogging and live surveillance. This allows the malware owner to actually connect to your device’s media systems and watch live video from the front or back camera, the screen recorder, as well as listen to audio from the microphone. The embedded keylogger also captures every input, including context — like what app was opened, how long it took, and even what keystrokes and gestures were used to access those applications. The attacker can literally see everything that is happening on the device as it happens.

As if that wasn’t enough, this malware is also equipped with a full suite of banking and cryptocurrency theft tools, which allow the attacker to target online banking apps such as Apple Pay and PayPal, while another works to scan and redirect outgoing transfers to the attacker’s wallet through clipboard address injection systems. There doesn’t appear to be any options that let the bad actors control your device, but there is still plenty of bad on display here.

The report from iVerify suggests that this malware platform is a “complete mobile compromise toolkit.” And that statement isn’t wrong. If your device were to become infected with this malware, then it could literally track everything you do on your Android or iPhone, and it can target up to the latest versions of both operating systems, including the iPhone 17.

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Every home is connected nowadays, which requires having access to the internet. This is through an Internet Service Provider (ISP), along with a subscription plan that unlocks monthly access. You can sign up for different packages, which offer different speeds and capabilities based on availability in your area. With some ISPs, this is bundled with TV service as well. But what hardware do you need? Both a modem and a router are necessary, and they perform very different functions.

Put simply, a modem is provided by your ISP, and it works as the conduit to access the internet. A router, however, is the device that connects to the modem and broadcasts the wireless signal throughout the home so that all your connected devices can, well, connect. Unless you are using a single device connected directly to the modem via an Ethernet cable, every household will need both. And a good, newer model router can help improve your Wi-Fi speeds.

How a modem works

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A modem, which stands for modulator-demodulator, is a small boxy device your ISP provides once you sign up. It gives you access to their network and servers, so you can access the internet. In the early days of the internet, a modem was connected to a phone line. The dial-up connection with that signature tone is what got you online. Usually, if a phone call came through, however, the person calling would hear a busy tone, which was a frustrating annoyance. Later, you had the capability to connect a modem directly to your computer to ensure more seamless access. But times have changed drastically since then.

Now, everything works over broadband. So, your modem connects to the internet using a cable that runs outside of the house, receiving the internet signal from your provider and converting it for use in the home. For cable, fixed, wireless, satellite, or fiber internet, the cable leads to the appropriate connection outside. With DSL internet, it will connect to a phone line. From there, voila! You have internet. But the only way to connect your devices is through an Ethernet cable plugged into the modem on one end and the device on the other. That is, unless you have a router.

What a router does

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As the name implies, a router literally routes the internet signal so wireless devices can access it. Usually another boxy device, the latest models among the best WiFi routers are quite stylish. It connects directly to the modem and works like a wireless hub to transmit a signal to connect everything in the home, like laptops, smart TVs, smart lights, and speakers. Think of the modem as being a megaphone and the router as the voice that speaks through it so everyone can hear.

When setting up a router, it’s important to add a network password since it’s broadcasting your Wi-Fi signal, so anyone or any device within range can access it. Along with a single standalone router, some great mesh systems are useful for larger homes, bigger families with lots of devices, or homes with “dead” spots where internet access is usually spotty. They include separate nodes or satellites that wirelessly communicate with the router to boost the signal. 

The latest generation routers are Wi-Fi 7, but most average homes can make do with a Wi-Fi 6 or Wi-Fi 6E router like the Google Nest WiFi Pro 6E, provided you have devices that can take advantage of the faster speeds and better latency. But for anyone who has more than a single device that they want to connect, an upgraded router with bands beyond 2.4GHz is essential, alongside the necessary modem. You can find plenty of routers from top brands like TP-Link, Linksys, ASUS, and others.

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It happens to the best of us. You realize that your car keyfob battery is low, but you figure you have plenty of time left before it dies, and usually you do. But inevitably, it will run out of power to start your car. Many new vehicles have a push-start engine button that relies on the smart key to work. 

A smart key fob is designed to function just like the physical keys of yesteryear, locking and unlocking the vehicle, but also starting the car’s engine. There is a way, however, to make sure that you aren’t stuck until you can get to the local convenience store to grab a new coin cell battery.

The keyless entry method does have a backup that involves proximity sensing. You probably have an extra key fob (since most cars come with two), and the fob likely has a hidden physical key you might not even realize is there the whole time! If you’ve been worried about being stuck in a snowstorm and your car won’t start because the key fob died, don’t. Car manufacturers have made sure there are alternative ways to get it going.

Alternate proximity options

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Usually, with a smart key fob, all you need to do is be close to the vehicle or touch a door sensor with the key fob in tow, and the car’s engine will roar. If the battery is dead, some vehicles come with fobs that work via proximity sensing. If this is the case, you should still be able to start the car by holding the smart key close to the start button. In some cases, an induction coil in the key fob can be energized by an induction coil in the steering column, allowing the car to start when you place them close to one another. 

Some new Ford vehicles have a secret spot in the center console where you can insert the fob, dead battery or not, and it will start the car. If you’re unsure, check your owner’s manual, and it should indicate where the backup option is for starting the car with a key fob that has a dead battery.

For especially high-tech cars, you might be able to use a companion app to remotely unlock the car, though you might not be able to start it. These include models from manufacturers like Audi, Acura, BMW, Buick, Chevrolet, GMC, Ford, Honda, Hyundai, and more. Some do, however, require a subscription to a specific service. There’s also an option to store your car keys on your iPhone or on your Android phone with certain manufacturer apps that support digital keys.

Physical backup options

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As with any technology, an analog backup is always useful in emergencies, and you have that with smart key fobs. First, most car manufacturers provide two key fobs with any new vehicle purchase. So, if the battery dies in one, just grab the second one. You might keep this in a safe spot at home, maybe your partner or teenager has it. Wherever it is, chances are it’s used less often, and the battery still has plenty of juice.

Another option is a clever one that some people don’t even realize exists. There’s usually a button on the key fob you can slide to reveal a physical key blade inside. Yes, these high-tech smart keys still have an actual key if you need it. Use it to unlock the door, then turn the ignition, and the car will start just like it did in the old days. 

If none of these options work, or your car doesn’t have a physical key slot, your best bet is to contact roadside assistance or find another way to get to a store and grab a replacement battery. But chances are, you won’t have to since these cars are designed to be unlocked and started even if the key fob is dead or malfunctions.

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Building on the CustomerFirst unit, which was unveiled last week, the UK government has announced that Meta is investing $1m through the Alan Turing Institute (ATI) to boost public sector artificial intelligence (AI) expertise.

Led by Tristan Thomas, formerly of Monzo, and Greg Jackson, CEO of Octopus Energy, CustomerFirst’s goal is to bring together the best civil service operators and leading private sector disruptors and transformation specialists. The plan is to use CustomerFirst expertise to rewire government services, making use of AI and best practices from the private sector.

The investment in the ATI’s latest fellowship programme aligns with the government’s ambition to build AI expertise in the public sector, supported by the private sector.

Mark Girolami, acting CEO and chief scientist at the Alan Turing Institute, said: “AI has huge potential to help us anticipate risks, improve decision-making and boost productivity, strengthening the UK’s resilience and prosperity. The new fellows will play an important role in putting effective AI tools into the hands of our public servants to realise these benefits.”

In July 2025, during his tenure as secretary of state at the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT), business and trade minister Peter Kyle called on the Alan Turing Institute to concentrate on developing a coherent programme of work that furthers the government’s defence, national security and sovereign ambitions.

This led the institute to streamline its strategic focus, resulting in the closure, spinning out or completion of 78 research projects that did not align with its new strategic direction.

Overall, it now focuses on supporting government AI initiatives and national security. Among these is a transport project, which is seeking to develop AI models that will analyse images and videos to enable councils to prioritise infrastructure repairs more effectively. This project appears to be more aligned with Labour’s stated plans to showcase the deployment of AI to improve the efficiency of public services.

Rob Sherman, deputy chief privacy officer for policy at Meta, said: “Advanced AI is already woven into daily life – powering the UK’s economy, driving innovation and enhancing quality of life for citizens. By placing AI experts at the heart of government institutions, we’re accelerating meaningful change and ensuring these benefits reach everyone.” 

Discussing the fellowship programme at the ATI, minister for data and modern digital government Ian Murray said: “Having met the fellows, I know they will play a pivotal role in rewiring our healthcare, police, transport systems and more, to make sure hardworking people benefit from the opportunities that only technologies like AI can deliver.”

Along with Meta, the government has also unveiled a partnership with Anthropic to help build and pilot a dedicated assistant tool for public services. The AI assistant will support people through crucial life moments, starting with job seekers, for whom it will provide custom career advice and help to lock down a job.

Anthropic said the partnership with the UK government demonstrates how frontier AI can be deployed safely for the public benefit, setting the standard for how governments integrate AI into the services their citizens depend on.

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