Thousands gathered at London’s Excel to hear Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella deliver a keynote presentation for the company’s AI Tour.

Those who made it to the start, given the length of the queue to go through security and get a visitor’s badge, heard from Nadella on the artificial intelligence (AI) opportunity that is available in Microsoft productivity tools and its technology stack. In particular, he spoke about the opportunity to harness information in Microsoft 365 to build powerful knowledge apps and applications that work alongside humans in agentic AI workflows.

Nadella discussed the power of an AI agent that acts as a data scientist, using Agent Mode in Excel and PowerPoint to find insights. Referring to how the adoption of Excel macros in the early 1990s lowered the entry point for software development, he said: “Excel is a great example of what happened with software development. Now, people who are using Excel can generate code using a single prompt.” This prompt is able to work with sophisticated models in Excel, creating an AI-generated artefact. In effect, a user can chat with Excel to generate new functionality.

He believes these artefacts require “precision augmentation”, where people have the ability to understand them. Rather than purely looking at AI’s ability to create, he stressed the importance of ensuring that anyone who receives the AI-generated artefact understands how it works, which makes it more explainable and allows people to see where they fit in a particular workflow.

Nadella positioned the data held in Microsoft 365 as a key foundation of agentic AI, providing a representation of “your people”, from their relationships to other people inside the organisation, to their work artefacts, projects, files, calendars and communications.

“This is massive information, and to have what is essentially a stateful system with AI reasoning that can then translate all of that information into what we describe as Work IQ can bootstrap any agent you build.”

Nadella also discussed Microsoft Fabric, which is used to ingest data in Excel spreadsheets, Power BI dashboards and the rest of Microsoft 365, and then expose this information to enterprise AI agents.

He then spoke about Microsoft Foundry, the company’s cloud-native platform for building agentic AI systems. “Once you have data, the next thing is a classic middle-tier application platform. Microsoft Foundry comes with frameworks for you to build agents or multi-agent systems, guardrails for AI safety and all of the run-time services that are required to build full production-ready AI systems,” he said. Microsoft Foundry also supports 11,000 AI models, according to Nadella.

One area in which AI agents are seeing momentum is code generation. According to Nadella, by having access to numerous models and enterprise data, developers are able to start building AI agents and creating agentic AI workflows. He urged developers to look at how to boost productivity in enterprise tools, such as Microsoft 365. “Where we want to start is in our own everyday use of information for knowledge worker tools,” he said.

Beyond simple agentic AI apps developed in Agent Builder, which are analogous to software development in Excel, he said IT teams are building powerful applications grounded in knowledge using AI models.

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When you need more screen real estate than what a standard Android smartphone provides, a tablet is an obvious alternative. While they’re not as portable as phones, Android tablets have their own importance. Due to their larger footprint, they give you a bigger screen for playing your favorite games, reading, or, for students, keeping up with online classes. But just like Android smartphones, the market has different options at different price points. 

You can find entry-level models extremely cheap, but there are more premium options available. And as such, it might be tempting to grab a brand-new, cheap Android tablet from Amazon or Best Buy if you have less cash. But just because your budget is tight and cheap options exist, it doesn’t mean that you should automatically settle for them. As the saying goes, you get what you pay for, and for the cheapest Android tablets, that couldn’t be truer. 

These Android tablets commonly come with a barrage of issues, such as poor software support and security issues. It’s so bad that in the grand scheme of things, there’s no point in buying a cheap Android tablet. You’re better off considering alternatives before wasting your money on cheap, off-brand Android tablets that are going for less than $150 or even $100, but will disappoint you not long after unboxing.

The hidden cost of cheap Android tablets

Cheap Android tablets come with disadvantages. Because companies that make these devices need to cut costs as much as possible in order to sell the tablets cheaply, some for as low as $50, the result is that you’re getting a device that’s inferior in various ways. One major issue with cheap Android tablets is security. For example, cybersecurity firm Kaspersky recently discovered malware, which it named Keenadu, integrated into the firmware of some Android tablets. 

According to the team, the malware was a “fully functional backdoor” through which attackers could gain unlimited control of a device, including installing APKs and granting necessary permissions. These types of malware are hard to detect and remove, and a 2023 blog post from Kaspersky says that even if the cheapest tablets might not have malware pre-installed, they’re more vulnerable to security issues than models from well-known manufacturers. Part of the reason why they’re more vulnerable is that these unknown brands usually use older versions of Android and are either slow to update their devices or never provide updates. 

Another catch with cheap tablets is that they typically come with many preinstalled apps, some of which can’t be uninstalled easily. These devices might also show you ads, as the manufacturer tries to further maximize profits. They also use low-quality components, which impact the day-to-day use of the tablet with issues like sluggish performance.

Smarter alternatives that don’t break the bank

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We’ve made a case for why cheap Android tablets are a waste of money. But while it would be perfect if every company improved the quality of entry-level tablets, with better quality hardware, better software support, and more stringent security measures, all we can do is wish, since we have no control over that. Saving a bit more money to have enough to snag the best Android tablets is an option. However, it might not be for you if you need a new tablet right now, and don’t have enough cash to get one from established brands. 

The answer is to buy used or refurbished tablets from reputable brands on the market, such as Samsung, Google, and Lenovo. Buying used tech can save you a good amount of cash, as they’re typically discounted. Don’t confuse the terms used and refurbished, as they have different meanings. Devices categorized as used or secondhand are sold as-is, like when you buy from someone else. Secondhand ones are typically cheaper than refurbished ones and don’t come with any warranty. Refurbished tablets might be given a slight makeover (like replacing the battery or any other damaged or worn-out components) to ensure they’re in stellar condition. 

You can find refurbished tablets on mainstream e-commerce platforms like Amazon, Best Buy, and Walmart. Secondhand tablets can be found on marketplaces like eBay, Back Market, Gazelle, and Swappa. But since you won’t be buying a brand new device, you should exercise the same caution you would when buying a used or refurbished Android phone. If you’re against buying used or refurbished tech, then you should consider these recommended cheaper Android tablets.

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During Trump’s second term, the company’s CEO Tim Cook promised it would invest up to $600 billion in the U.S. economy in the next four years. He also signaled Apple would, in some capacity, move its production to the United States. While the dream of making the iPhone in the U.S. might never come true, Tim Cook confirmed in an Apple press release that Mac Mini production will start in Houston, Texas, by the end of 2026.

That means Apple will start making, in the United States, one of its most popular computers. Since the company revealed the Mac Mini with the M4 chip, which we have reviewed, this computer has become a success due to its price tag and powerful processor. Scientists, developers, and other professionals have been buying and stacking up Mac Minis to run their own local AI models. Besides that, the Mac Mini is also a great product for those wanting a powerful Mac device at a budget.

Apple’s focus shift to the U.S. had been announced years ago. During the first term of U.S. President Donald Trump, Apple committed to start manufacturing some of its products in the United States. At that moment, in September 2019, the chosen product was the Mac Pro. Apple started manufacturing the computer in Austin, Texas, due to a lower demand and higher price tag than its other products.

Apple’s partner TSMC continues to expand on manufacturing Apple chips

With Apple focusing on manufacturing the Mac Mini in Houston, the company is also expecting its chip partner, TSMC, to continue to expand its plants in the country. So far, TSMC can produce Apple’s A16 and Apple Watch processors, which power several devices like the HomePod, Apple Watch, Studio Display, and older iPhone models.

However, TSMC has plans to start manufacturing 3-nanometer chips, which could include a wider range of Apple products eventually being made in the country. The 3 nm technology is used for Apple’s A17, A18, A19, M3, M4, and M5 chips, which includes all the current products the company sells, like the M4 Mac Mini — but it could also include a future M5 Mac Mini as well.

Even though Apple will likely continue to manufacture most of its Mac Minis outside of the U.S., it will give American users the opportunity to get a Mac “Made in America.” This is not only good for the company’s public reputation but also helps it navigate the political and economical turbulences that big tech firms that rely on China have been suffering under Trump’s tariffs. Other reports also suggested that TSMC will produce in the future 2 nm chips in the U.S., which could lead the way to more powerful A20 and M6 chips being made in the country andbringing cutting-edge technology.

Apple explains more about its efforts in the U.S.

In a press release, Tim Cook wrote that “Apple is deeply committed to the future of American manufacturing, and we’re proud to significantly expand our footprint in Houston with the production of Mac mini starting later this year.” He also explained that the Houston facility is already delivering AI severs earlier than expected.

In addition to that, Apple is creating a 20,000-square-foot Advanced Manufacturing Center that should provide Americans all the expertise required to help Apple build its products in the country. It also wants to improve the general high-end manufacturing capabilities of the United States. The company says that it will teach advanced manufacturing techniques to students, supplier employees, and American businesses in general.

Even though Apple is planning to bring the Mac Mini production to the U.S., this could also indicate that the Mac Studio could come next. The computer’s form factor is similar to the Mac Mini, but it uses more premium internals, including Max and Ultra processors. As Apple currently doesn’t have plans to release a new Mac Pro, it would make sense if Foxconn started to manufacture these two Macs in the U.S.; so far, it’s unclear if the company could bring its MacBook or other productions to the United States.

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Looking to transcend the physical constraint of every generation of connectivity to date – copper’s speed, fibre’s time to deploy and the scarcity of radio spectrum – Taara has revealed a “breakthrough approach” to commercial communications and connectivity infrastructure in the form of the “world’s first” wireless communication platform based on optical phased arrays.

Designed for operators, enterprises and next-generation data infrastructure, Taara Beam is attributed with bringing fibre-like speeds to environments where traditional infrastructure is too slow, costly or impractical to build, marking a shift from fixed, physical networks to infrastructure that can evolve at the pace of demand.

The new developments build on existing Taara work using beams of light to extend high-speed internet to places where traditional infrastructure is difficult to deploy. Its first system Taara Lightbridge is now deployed in more than 20 countries, with operators including Airtel, Digicel, T-Mobile, SoftBank and Liquid.

Taara Beam is described as being designed for the next phase, shrinking Taara’s wireless optics technology into a form factor around the size of a shoe-box to “radically” increase network density and flexibility. It is intended to see use in enabling high-throughput, low-latency connectivity across urban environments, enterprise campuses, datacentre clusters and event venues without the delays and costs associated with building physical infrastructure.

Taara sees Beam as being deployed on rooftops, poles or existing structures within hours, forming high-bandwidth mesh networks that support applications ranging from small-cell backhaul mounted on street furniture to fronthaul networks and AI-driven, real-time systems. By operating in the unlicensed optical spectrum, it avoids congestion and recurring spectrum costs while delivering performance at the speed modern networks require.

Explaining the rationale for the launch and the fundamental technology foundations, Google’s Moonshot Factory said that by moving the core functionality of high-speed wireless optical communication into an integrated circuit that controls light electronically, comms networks that can be deployed quickly, scaled more flexibly and improved over time, without the constraints of trenching fibre or securing scarce spectrum.

The proprietary optical phased arrays were developed at X and Taara labs over the past several years. The first product built on the photonic platform will be Taara Beam, engineered to deliver up to 25 Gbps of high-speed, low latency connectivity over distances up to 10 kilometres in a compact, deployable form factor.

Traditional free-space optical systems steer beams of light using mirrors, sensors and mechanical hardware. According to Taara, this is an approach that works but is physically constrained at scale. Taara Beam is said to represent a new architecture, shifting from mechanical control to increasingly solid-state control of light.

At Taara Beam’s core is an integrated photonic module containing over a thousand miniature light emitters arranged in an optical phased array, a solid-state steering device. This phased array allows the platform to track, shape and steer light with greater precision, improving reliability and latency while significantly reducing size and mechanical complexity.

“With light transmitted through the air, those constraints begin to disappear. Taara Beam is the first commercial product built on our photonics platform, and it’s just the beginning,” said Taara founder and CEO Mahesh Krishnaswamy. “We’re not just improving networks, we’re removing the limits that have defined them. We’re…building toward a future where connectivity feels less like infrastructure and more like the air we breathe – essential, abundant and almost invisible to the people who rely on it.”

Devin Brinkley, senior vice-president of engineering at Taara, added: “Silicon photonics allows us to integrate the core functionalities of wireless optical communication into a single module. We’ve compressed most of the functionality of our previous systems into a photonic module the size of a finger. As the technology matures, it can scale across performance, cost and size – similar to the exponential pace at which semiconductor platforms evolve.”

Taara Beam will make its official industry debut at the forthcoming Mobile World Congress (MWC) Barcelona 2026. Operators, infrastructure providers and partners can now request early access to the technology.

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Vinyl’s comeback is often framed as a nostalgic blip, but that explanation collapses when you look at who is actually driving sales. According to Luminate’s 2025 year-end data, vinyl sales rose for the 19th consecutive year in 2025, with Taylor Swift leading the U.S. vinyl albums list and selling over 1.6 million units of her album “The Life of a Showgirl.” This helps to retire the assumption that physical media is a niche hobby sustained mainly by older collectors.

Renewed interest in physical records isn’t limited to pop fandom or retro aesthetics. As Rolling Stone notes, collecting physical media has become a conscious choice, especially among people immersed in digital culture. Vinyl is an alternative music trend to streaming services for some listeners, and even CDs are making a comeback. 

Once vinyl becomes part of how you actually listen, the turntable behind it begins to matter. And that’s where things get tricky. Today’s market is full of record players that make a great first impression, but not all age well. For this article, we looked beyond early hype to how turntables hold up over time, considering build quality, upgrade potential, and what owners say after years of use. The brands below are examined through that long-term lens, drawing on user experience and community reputation. A detailed breakdown of our rankings is available at the end of the piece. 

Technics – Tanks of turntables

Spend enough time in vinyl forums, Reddit threads, or audiophile groups and a pattern becomes hard to ignore: When the conversation gets serious, Technics shows up. In most discussions, the brand is considered legendary, especially the SL-1200 series. Much of that reputation comes from its long-standing dominance in DJ culture. DJs relied on Technics for its direct-drive design that delivered high torque, rock-solid speed stability, and the ability to hold pitch under demanding conditions. That same engineering rigor is why its turntables continue to be respected among home listeners. 

Owners routinely describe their Technics decks as “tanks,” and not in a romantic, retro way. They mean machines that keep working, year after year, with minimal servicing, even as everything around them is upgraded or replaced. What’s striking is how often Technics shows up in years-later discussions. Many users talk about buying a Technics turntable decades ago, or picking up a used one from the ’70s or ’80s, and still using it today. The reputation extends beyond vintage nostalgia too. Modern Technics models are discussed with the same seriousness. 

In upgrade themes, it’s common to see users moving from respected belt-drive decks — often from Pro-Ject, or Audio-Technica to models like the SL-1200GR or SL-1500C — and describing the switch as worth it. Professional coverage mirrors this sentiment. What Hi-Fi? consistently places Technics models in specialist categories, including premium turntable suggestions. Perhaps the strongest argument for Technics at number one is how rarely it’s described as a stepping stone. Plenty of people upgrade to Technics. Few feel the need to upgrade from it. Technics earns its top ranking as it remains respected over time.

Pro-Ject – Perfect for clear upgrade paths

Pro-Ject is the brand many people lean towards when they need high quality at affordable prices. In vinyl conversations, Pro-Ject is rarely framed as your final turntable, and that’s okay. Its potential to evolve its setup is actually the reason the brand is ranked so high. In user discussions, Pro-Ject comes up as an enthusiast-driven brand that offers upgrade paths. Pro-Ject turntables support cartridge swaps and integrate easily with external phono stages. Platter upgrades on several models are also available. Many users on Reddit highlight the brand’s attention to essentials like proper tonearm adjustments and a sound motor, without pushing prices into high-end territory. 

HiFi Daydreaming positions Pro-Ject’s X1 as a strong long-term investment due to the model’s possible incremental upgrades, allowing listeners to progress further without changing the core turntable. What Hi-Fi? has recognized Pro-Ject across multiple categories. The Primary E won best budget turntable for getting the sonic fundamentals right at an accessible price. The Debut EVO 2 earned best mid-range turntable, and the T1 EVO BT placed as the best Bluetooth turntable. Few brands manage to span entry-level to mid-range so convincingly without diluting identity. Pro-Ject positions itself as an adaptable, modular turntable brand that helps listeners enjoy the process of learning about vinyls and gradually improving their vinyl setup.

Rega – Highly regarded for sound, but selective in appeal

Rega is mentioned a little later than brands like Technics or Pro-Ject, in debates between vinyl enthusiasts centered on direct-drive designs, built-in features, or expansive upgrade ecosystems. What consistently defines the brand, however, is its emphasis on musicality and fundamental sound performance. Rega built its reputation on musical, engaging playback. Vinyl Revival refers to the Planar lineup as exemplifying Rega’s “signature musicality,” highlighting its analogue warmth, dynamic scale, and cohesive presentation. What Hi-Fi? named the Rega Planar 3 RS Edition the best 2026 turntable overall. 

However, Rega’s minimalist design comes with trade-offs — one of the reasons we kept it at number three. On models like the Planar 2, changing speeds requires lifting the platter and moving the belt manually. Some users accept this part of the analog experience. Others find it to be unnecessary friction, especially when similarly priced alternatives offer electronic speed switching. Many experienced users suggest skipping the Planar 2 entirely and stepping straight to the Planar 3 for its ability to add an external speed control switch. The Planar 3 also has a superior tonearm and offers better upgrade potential. At its price point, however, Technics might offer more practical, long-term options.

Owners who buy into Rega’s philosophy stay content for years. Those who move on usually do so without disappointment, realizing they want more control or flexibility than Rega offers. It’s not trying to compete on flexibility or ease of use. Its strength lies in musical presentation, and that decision continues to resonate with experienced listeners.

Fluance – A safe setup

Fluance builds its reputation on sound quality that punches above its price point. Its dense plinths have robust quality, and it’s a safe step-up choice for listeners who have moved past entry-level gear. Most Fluance models prioritize ease of setup, with factory-mounted and pre-aligned cartridges, including Ortofon models on higher-tier units. Forbes describes the brand’s setup process as “straightforward” and beginner-friendly. This ease makes Fluance a natural fit with listeners building a simple system before moving deeper into traditional hi-fi. 

Models like the RT85N maintain strong ratings on Amazon and are considered great value for money. Many people prefer Fluance for its high upgradability. A drawback is that it doesn’t offer extensive features like Bluetooth connectivity. Perhaps the brand has calculated that serious vinyl listeners care more about how music sounds than about peripheral features. Although it has great sonic capabilities, it lacks a strong long-term ecosystem. 

Fluance caters to listeners who have spent enough time with records to care deeply about sound quality, but also who are not looking to invest four figures in a turntable. The brand doesn’t offer the long-term ecosystem of Pro-Ject or the sophisticated identity of Rega. However, it also avoids the compromises and inconsistencies common at lower price points. That balance makes Fluance a safe, sensible choice for anyone stepping up from entry-level turntables.

Audio-Technica – A practical compromise for new enthusiasts

Audio-Technica strikes an interesting paradox in the turntable world. It’s one of the most recommended brands for newcomers, but also criticized by experienced audiophiles. The split exists because the brand’s strength lies in its affordability rather than sonic ambition. Its turntables are designed to remove points of friction for users. The built-in preamps eliminate the need for additional equipment, USB connectivity lets you digitize records without buying separate hardware, and multiple speed support makes setup and operation easy. The brand’s most popular turntables sit in the AT-LP60 and AT-LP120 ranges, dominating first-time vinyl purchases. Dapper & Groomed describes the AT-LP60X as a fully automatic, “easy-to-use” turntable aimed at making vinyl accessible for beginners. 

That approach, however, also explains the brand’s ceiling. Among audiophiles, Audio-Technica rarely earns long-term loyalty. In discussion threads, it’s sometimes described as a brand more respected for its cartridges than its turntables. Despite that, user satisfaction remains high. Most of its turntables, like the AT-LP60X, hold strong Amazon ratings, often averaging around 4.5 stars. That reputation extends to other categories, including Audio-Technica’s high-quality headphones. Owners rarely regret buying an Audio-Technica turntable; they simply outgrow it as their expectations evolve. It remains a solid recommendation for beginners, especially at its cost, and suits anyone unsure whether vinyl will be a long-term hobby. 

U-Turn Audio – Easy to own but often outgrown

U-Turn Audio has built a brand around simplicity, aesthetics, servicing, and American manufacturing — qualities that resonate with certain buyers but leave others questioning the value proposition. The appeal is obvious when you look at an Orbit turntable: clean lines, attractive wood plinths, and color customization. U-Turn has successfully marketed itself as the choice for people who care mainly about how their turntable looks in their living space.

The criticism comes when you compare what you get for the price. Many users mention persistent grounding issues. Entry-level Orbit models lack features that competitors include as standard: no electronic speed switching, no cue lever on basic configurations, no adjustable anti-skate, no detachable headshell. TechGearLab’s review captures the tension: the Orbit Plus delivers decent sound quality and looks great, but the price makes it hard to recommend when Fluance or Audio-Technica offer more features or better performance for similar or less money. However, U-Turn earns respect through the customer support it provides. 

U-Turn’s value proposition is highly preference-driven. If you love the aesthetic and appreciate the customization, you will probably be happy. If you are strictly optimizing for sound quality per dollar, you might choose something else. A turntable is the kind of audiophile gadget that should level up your music experience, and for users who are looking for qualities beyond pure performance this brand can deliver. 

Denon – Living on past glory

Denon’s story is one of dramatic divergence between past and present. Vintage Denon turntables from the 1970s and early 1980s are highly respected and actively sought by older users. Modern Denon turntables? Not so much. The reception toward contemporary models is far more reserved. Expert users instead look to brands like Rega or Fluance. So, while the vintage second-hand Denon gear is often recommended, new models are hardly discussed or preferred.

TechRadar’s review of the DP-300F shows the modern Denon dilemma. It’s positioned as a great turntable because of its fully automatic operation and built-in preamp, features that make it easy to use. But the review also notes the model’s average sound quality and limited advanced features, acknowledging it won’t satisfy listeners seeking high-end performance. It’s a contrast to the older Denons that would receive nothing but praise from owners. Outside of turntables, Denon is ranked among major Bluetooth speaker brands, however, its products in that space also come at a higher price point.

Users say that once you factor in cartridge upgrades and other improvements needed to get decent performance from modern Denon models, you have spent enough that alternatives simply make more sense. Fluance and Audio-Technica provide better bang for your buck. And vintage Technics models are clearly superior at similar prices. For buyers interested in vintage gear, Denon from the right era is absolutely worth considering. For anyone looking at new models, the vinyl community’s message is clear: there are better options at every price point.

Crosley – The brand everyone warns you about

The most common type of comment around Crosley’s turntables reads something like: “Whatever you do, don’t buy a Crosley.” Experienced listeners warn that starting your vinyl journey with a Crosley can sour the vinyl experience entirely, leaving newcomers with a skewed impression of how vinyls are supposed to sound. The issue goes beyond subjective taste. Many Crosley-style players rely on higher tracking force and lack proper tonearm geometry, which audio reviewers have noted can accelerate record wear and compress musical detail. Wirecutter, for instance, has explained that excessive tracking force, used to prevent skipping on cheaper mechanisms, comes at the cost of long-term record health. Even on Crosley’s own website, some models hover around 3.5 stars.

For serious users, vinyl is often about slowing down and creating a good listening experience. That’s where Crosley’s design priorities start to show its limits. Inconsistent speed, audible distortion, and mechanical noise interrupt longer listening sessions, pulling attention back to the equipment instead of letting the music recede into the background. Its vintage suitcase designs attract beginners, who often end up disappointed and blame vinyl itself. The Daily Illini cautioned first time buyers to “beware” of Crosley turntables and not to purchase them solely for their “cute, retro designs.”

To Crosley’s credit, the company has attempted to address some of these criticisms with a handful of higher-end models. But its reputation with users is largely set. In the vinyl community, Crosley is a cautionary example. If someone wants to get into vinyl, any other brand in this ranking will serve them better.

How we ranked these turntable brands

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We ranked vinyl turntable brands based on long-term ownership experience and sustained reputation within the vinyl community. Our research drew from extended user discussions across vinyl forums, Reddit threads, and audiophile communities, alongside coverage from established audio publications. We looked for long-term trust: whether owners stick with a brand, upgrade around it rather than away from it, and how experienced listeners discuss it. 

These rankings are meant to help readers understand which brands tend to suit different listening priorities and levels of commitment. As with other vintage tech products value is proven over time — longevity matters more than hype. That’s why brands like Technics and Rega make sense despite the higher cost. Pro-Ject appeals to enthusiasts who want room to upgrade and experiment as their setup grows. Fluance fits listeners who value strong sound performance without moving into higher price tiers, while Audio-Technica works well for newcomers who want a reliable, approachable entry point. Brands that struggle fail to answer one key question: why choose this over something else? 

Nevertheless, the best turntable for you isn’t necessarily from the highest-ranked brand. It’s the one that matches your priorities, budget, and how seriously you take this hobby. Now you know which brands have earned respect, which ride on aesthetics or convenience, and which to skip entirely.

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Smart TVs can spy on you by tracking what you watch, what you search, and a whole lot more. Some smart TV manufacturers have even been sued for these spying allegations. One of the most prominent ways a smart TV operating system tracks you is by using something called Automatic Content Recognition (ACR). ACR is pretty invasive and is built into TVs from some of the biggest smart TV brands, including Samsung, LG, and Sony. Fortunately, Apple TV devices, which rely on the company’s tvOS platform, don’t include ACR and have a relatively better privacy track record than other platforms.

However, that doesn’t mean Apple TVs lack any sort of tracking, and you can keep using them without worrying about your privacy. Depending on the options selected when you set up your Apple TV device or run an app for the first time, the company or the developers of the app installed on your Apple TV could be getting information about your location, analytics data, what you are searching, and more. So, if you care about your online privacy and would rather not have your information being fed to Apple or app developers, here are some privacy settings you should adjust.

Changing Apple TV app tracking and analytics data sharing settings

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Apple TV makes it pretty easy to change most of its privacy-related settings, even if you skipped them when you were setting up your device. You can find all the relevant options under the Privacy and Security section in the General menu of Apple TV settings. tvOS versions 17 and older have the Privacy section instead of Privacy and Security. The first notable setting you’ll find in Apple TV’s privacy settings is Tracking. It includes an option to allow or deny apps to track you and lists apps for which you have requested permission to track you. This permission allows them to track your activity across other apps and websites. For example, you might have allowed Crunchyroll, which is a popular anime streaming service from Sony, to track your activities.

You can select Crunchyroll and remove that permission. You can also deny all apps from asking to track by disabling the Allow Apps to Request to Track option. Additionally, you can stop sharing analytics data with Apple or app developers. The option to stop analytics data sharing is also found under Privacy and Security. Scroll down to the Analytics and Improvements section and turn off Share Apple TV Analytics. Below this option, you’ll also see the setting to allow Apple to use your Siri interactions to improve Siri and dictation. You can also turn it off if you don’t want Apple to use your voice data.

Restricting access to location, Bluetooth devices, and more

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Besides app tracking permissions, you get the option to check and restrict permissions to access your location, photos, Bluetooth, microphone, camera (if available), Apple Home data, and your activity in Apple Music and media library. Simply navigate to Settings > General > Privacy & Security, and you’ll find each of these options listed. You can go into each option to check if any of your installed apps have access, and if you think that access is unnecessary, you can revoke it.

If you also use the company’s Apple TV streaming service, the app tracks what you’re watching, downloading, browsing, etc., to give you personalized content recommendations, among other purposes. If you don’t want to get these recommendations, you can go to Settings > Apps > TV > Use Play History and turn off the option. However, there is no way to turn off the data collection, as it’s used by the company to figure out how many people are watching its shows, pay royalties to content owners, etc. Once you have updated the privacy settings on your Apple TV, here’s how you can also prevent smart Android TVs from spying on you.

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Looking to transform how multinational enterprises manage and scale international internet of things (IoT) deployments, wireless management platform firm Aeris has announced a partnership with Verizon Business.

The Aeris IoT Accelerator (IoTA) Services is designed to enable multinational enterprises to localise US devices in weeks instead of months using Verizon Business’ IoT connectivity and ThingSpace platform, all through a single global architecture.

Industry analysts have highlighted the necessity of this unified approach. John Gole, research director of IoT and mobility at IDC, noted that while organisations see IoT as a key part of strategic digitisation, deploying these solutions remains challenging for those with ambitious plans to incorporate AI and automation. IDC further projects that the overall investment in the global IoT ecosystem is expected to surpass $1tn in 2026 as industries such as manufacturing, utilities and retail ramp up digital business investments.

The solution is based on the new SGP.32 eSIM standard and supports 5G-enabled, mission-critical use cases across automotive, industrial automation and smart cities, while extending security through the Aeris IoT Watchtower platform for unified monitoring and zero-trust control.

Created by the GSMA, the industry body responsible for mobile communication standards, SGP.32 is a global, next-generation eSIM standard for remote SIM provisioning in IoT devices – especially those with no user interface. It is designed to enable the large-scale, hands-off management of eSIM profiles, making it easier to deploy and operate IoT without physical access.

While eSIM technology has been available for consumer devices, managing these digital SIM profiles in IoT devices comes with unique challenges. For example, many IoT devices lack a user interface, making manual SIM management impractical.

SGP.32 has been designed to address such limitations and builds on existing eSIM technology, introducing a more efficient way to remotely manage IoT connectivity. It allows SIM profiles to be managed remotely through a centralised platform, enabling automated updates and provisioning – even for devices without user interfaces or located in hard-to-reach areas.

The Aeris and Verizon Business integration will use the latest SGP.32 eSIM standard to facilitate remote provisioning and centralised management, allowing businesses to activate devices in multiple countries. The system is designed to support 5G capabilities, including low latency and high bandwidth, which Aeris regards as essential for mission-critical applications in automotive, industrial automation and smart cities.

The collaboration directly addresses the primary challenge – the friction caused by fragmented platforms and complex domestic connectivity stacks – for global IoT carriers attempting to localise in the United States. By combining Verizon’s massive U.S. network and ThingSpace platform with the Aeris IoTA platform, enterprises can now manage US and global deployments through a single pane of glass, ensuring consistent commercial terms and unified SIM management.

The collaboration also introduces Aeris IoTA Inbound Services, a solution that integrates the IoTA Connectivity Management Platform directly with Verizon ThingSpace platform to simplify multi-region operations. The collaboration has already enabled US-based enterprises with outbound connectivity for international IoT deployments using Aeris IoTA, and the extension is intended to broaden those capabilities by opening up the US market for global device fleets.

“Global enterprises require a strategic shift away from the inefficiency of juggling numerous connectivity contracts and disparate platforms,” said Mark Cratsenburg, chief commercial officer of IoT business unit at Aeris. “Through this integration with Verizon, Aeris is delivering a unified solution that allows our tier one global partners to expand their IoT customer solutions into the US market with speed and simplicity while continuing to enable a seamless experience for Verizon customers deploying devices outside of the US.”

Shamik Basu, vice-president of strategic connectivity and IoT at Verizon Business, added: “Our collaboration with Aeris allows us to enrich the IoT experience for global customers by providing them access to our top-class connectivity and platforms in the critical US market. As IoT becomes increasingly mobile and global, collaborations like this one provide customers unprecedented reach and seamlessness without compromising on reliability and value, which is critical for meaningful international expansion.”

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ISC2, the non-profit membership association for cyber security professionals, has launched a code of conduct to spread more ethical, principled practices across the global cyber security trade.

The ISC2 Professional Code of Conduct builds on the association’s existing Code of Ethics, and has been developed with input from ISC2 members from all over the world.

It sets out to codify professional obligations and responsibilities, and reaffirms the importance of ethical behaviour, and offers guidance in areas such as sound decision-making, establishing and fostering trust, and upholding their professional integrity.

All this is set against the context of the rapidly evolving digital world, as the security profession works out how to navigate ethical challenges posed by artificial intelligence (AI), disinformation, and other threats. ISC2 said the code would help them navigate such challenges with confidence.

“Cyber security professionals have a profound responsibility not only to protect and secure individuals, organisations and systems around the world but also to uphold the integrity, accountability and trust that the profession depends on,” said ISC2 CEO Scott Beale.

“The Code provides a shared foundation for guiding ethical decision-making and professional conduct, especially as emerging technologies like AI reshape how organisations operate and how security decisions are made.

“Leveraging the collective input and decades of experience from ISC2 volunteers, the Code provides comprehensive guidance for everyone working in the cyber security field,” said Beale.

The code itself is organised around two core pillars – Ethics and Professional Conduct. The first of these sections covers topics such as integrity, client (or victim) confidentiality, respect for laws and regulations, and wider public safety and societal impact. The second section addresses areas such as accountability and responsibility, collaboration and teamwork, competence and continuous improvement, and reporting concerns and other issues.

Living document

The code was developed by a diverse taskforce of almost 1,400 ISC2 member volunteers, who have been meeting regularly to discuss the issues they face in their day-to-day work, and the opportunities that such a code could present.

Some of the key stages in its development included a major feedback-gathering exercise from ISC2 members, and external sources from the world of academia and industry. The volunteers themselves represented a diverse spread of ISC2 membership, with contributors ranging from the organisation’s basic Certified in Cybersecurity (CC) badge holders through to more advanced Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) practitioners, helping ensure and validate that the code is suitable for cyber pros at all stages of their careers.

Going forward, it will serve as a ‘living document’ subject to further amendment and refinement as the profession evolves in the coming years, and as-yet-unforeseen challenges emerge.

Panos Vlachos, an ISC2 member and code volunteer, said: “As emerging technologies, particularly AI, become more integrated into cyber security and organisational workflows, we created guidelines on ethical implementation and integration.

“Our goal with the global code is to ensure that AI and other transformative innovations align with ethical best practices, fostering responsible adoption while mitigating potential risks,” added Vlachos.

ISC2 member Srija Reddy Allam, who also sat on the panel, said they hoped both ISC2 members and non-affiliated security pros would use the code as a guide and mirror to inform their work, and reflect on their role in shaping a safer digital environment.

“In a field like cyber security, where not every situation has a clear rulebook, the Code can serve to navigate grey areas with integrity,” said Allam. “I also hope it becomes a shared foundation across the profession, encouraging accountability, fostering trust and reinforcing that how we work is just as important as what we do.”

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In Season 12 of “Shark Tank,” which aired in 2020, two entrepreneurs appeared to promote what they believed was the future of electric vehicle (EV) charging. They were Josh Aviv and Chris Ellis, two of the co-founders of SparkCharge. The third co-founder, Richard Whitney, did not appear in the episode. The goal of SparkCharge is to provide a portable electric vehicle charger that can fit in the back of a trunk so that drivers of EVs don’t have to worry about running out of range before they can get to a charging station. This idea appealed to the panel of potential investors on the show, also called sharks, enough that a deal was made. SparkCharge continues to grow and thrive today.

Just because a deal is agreed to during an episode doesn’t mean it will stay after the show when the due diligence period happens, which is basically when the investment is further analyzed to ensure it is a sound business decision. For example, the CoinOut app that also featured on “Shark Tank,” got a deal on Season 9 of the show, but it was never finalized. For SparkCharge, however, the deal did get finalized. The company has an active website and a presence across North America.

SparkCharge scored a deal on Shark Tank

One struggle with electric vehicles is that, depending on where you live, there may not be great existing infrastructure to consistently charge up when you need to, unlike the network of gas stations across the United States. This leads EV owners to find ways to extend their electric vehicle range. SparkCharge’s aim was to provide a portable charging station to help EV drivers get by when needed, and also to establish a network of these chargers with local businesses.

SparkCharge was founded in 2017, three years before it appeared on “Shark Tank.” Josh Aviv and Chris Ellis wanted a $1 million investment for a 6% stake in the company. The sharks weren’t so certain. There were concerns about Aviv and Ellis’ idea to also lease these SparkCharge units alongside full purchases.

Ultimately, Lori Greiner and Mark Cuban agreed to a deal for 10% equity and 4% advisory shares. In the years that followed, SparkCharge secured deals with other business partners and continued to grow, with the latest one totaling $30.5 million in May 2025. As of 2024, the company projected over $27 million in revenue with expectations to achieve profitability.

The future of SparkCharge

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SparkCharge’s website boasts that its services span all 50 states in the U.S. and extend into Canada and Mexico with over 200,000 charging sessions. It offers the mobile charging that was debuted on “Shark Tank” alongside permanent charging infrastructure and off-grid power hubs. It also has a slightly active LinkedIn business page, but it does show the company hiring for positions, so it seems to be still growing.

SparkCharge has also jumped on the artificial intelligence (AI) bandwagon with its SparkAI. Its algorithms develop and deploy off-grid EV charging infrastructure faster. SparkCharge’s website highlights its partners and clients including Hertz, AAA, Amazon, Uber, Kia, and more.

So, while EV technology continues to evolve, and companies like Tesla are promising big range on new vehicles, SparkCharge is meeting people’s needs where they are right now by offering flexible on-the-go charging solutions. A company getting a deal on “Shark Tank” and rapidly growing into a success is what the show is all about, and SparkCharge has delivered on that.

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If you’ve owned a laptop in the past twenty years or so, chances are high that you’ve had one at some point. But it’s easy not to think about, especially since it doesn’t seem to do anything at first glance. The object in question, of course, is that little slot located on the side of many laptops — you know, the one near your USB and charging ports that has a lock icon next to it. Well, what if we told you it is actually useful for something?

That slot — which has been included on many laptop brands for the past two decades — is for a special type of lock called a Kensington lock. These are essentially security devices, which you can use to secure your electronics directly to a table, desk, or other immovable object. Ever been to Best Buy, Walmart, or any other store with laptops and electronics and noticed how some of them are tethered to a cable? That’s a Kensington lock, and there’s a good chance your laptop supports one, too.

What devices support Kensington locks?

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There’s an array of devices that were designed with Kensington locks in mind. Some of the best laptops have them (usually not ultrabooks or ultra-thin laptops, though), as do desktops, monitors, projectors, and many other expensive types of electronics that might need to be secured in some way. You can check if your laptop has a Kensington lock slot by checking along the side or back for the connector slot. If you have one, then you can look up your laptop’s model to find a lock that will fit it.

Kensington Security Slots (or “K Slots,” as they’re sometimes called) have been around for more than 30 years. Over that time, the locks have expanded to support a variety of different devices, including the aforementioned options, as well as printers, speakerphones, and more. Its namesake company, Kensington Computer Products, says that 95% of laptops, projectors, printers, and monitors are compatible with its locking solutions — at least as recently as 2022.

The amount of supported devices has changed some as things like ultrabooks and super-thin laptops become more readily available, but regular-sized laptops still tend to offer a Kensington Security Slot. If you plan to buy a cheap laptop from Walmart or other stores, you may want to see if it offers room for a Kensington lock.

Are Kensington locks actually secure?

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The most important thing to note here is that these locks are not always going to stop theft. They are more designed as deterrents for “grab-and-run” scenarios. As such, they can still be bypassed, but they make things a bit harder for potential thieves. Additionally, these locks are really only going to be as effective as the mounting location you choose for them. If you simply connect them to a cable around a table leg that can be easily moved to bypass it, you’re not going to get much additional security from it. This is why stores often have the cables designed to go under a table, where they can be attached to other, more secure objects.

If your laptop offers a Kensington Security Slot, you very well might want to invest in a lock for it. This can help provide additional peace of mind if your working environment leaves you worried someone could run off with your laptop. And if you pair one up with essential security apps that actually protect your computer, you’ll surely feel more secure knowing your data is better protected against software and hardware threats alike.

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