Technology
Tokyo Metropolitan University researchers use bubbles to improve inkjet printing
By dispersing ultra-fine bubbles into ink, researchers can control the drying behavior of droplets to mitigate the coffee ring effect without chemical additives.
OpenAI to shut down Atlas browser and move features to ChatGPT products
OpenAI will shutter its standalone Atlas browser, migrating core features like web navigation and agentic tasks into its desktop app, Work tool, and extensions.
id Software staff cut by half as Microsoft initiates massive Xbox layoffs
Microsoft has initiated a reduction of 3,200 roles across its gaming division, including significant staff cuts at the development studio id Software. Despite these changes, the studio states it retains the capacity to develop games and maintain the id Tech engine.
Assassin’s Creed Black Flag Resynced sells 2 million copies in one day
Assassin’s Creed Black Flag Resynced sold 2 million copies on its first day, setting a new franchise record for peak concurrent players on Steam.
iPhone 18 Pro Max rumors point to heaviest model in years due to battery
Reports suggest the iPhone 18 Pro Max will become one of Apple's heaviest handsets to accommodate a larger battery and new cooling system. The device is also expected to feature a 2nm A20 Pro chip and a variable aperture main camera.
GTA Online Kortz Center Heist launches July 14 as major content update
Rockstar Games is set to launch The Kortz Center Heist, a substantial new mission for GTA Online that features stealth mechanics and high-stakes art theft. This update serves as the game's final major content release before the arrival of Grand Theft Auto 6.
ASUS Republic of Gamers Announces Raikiri II Pro PC Controller
ASUS Republic of Gamers Announces Raikiri II Pro PC Controller
Google Chrome 150 for Android adds dedicated back button and menu redesign
Google is rolling out a redesigned menu for Chrome on Android that includes a new dedicated back button and reconfigured interface shortcuts. These updates aim to improve navigation, particularly for users with large-screen devices like tablets and foldables.
Ubisoft Barcelona lays off 51 staff following Assassin's Creed launch
Despite Assassin’s Creed Black Flag Resynced achieving the franchise's highest-ever Steam concurrent player count, Ubisoft Barcelona has disbanded its team and terminated 51 employees.
iPhone 18 Pro Max component costs could jump by nearly $300
New data reveals that surging costs for NAND flash and DRAM are driving up the manufacturing price of the upcoming iPhone 18 Pro Max. Analysts expect Apple to pass a portion, but not all, of these expenses to consumers.
DuckDuckGo's Free Browser Now Blocks Most YouTube Video Ads
DuckDuckGo has integrated ad-blocking technology into its browser to remove pre-roll and mid-roll advertisements from the YouTube website. The feature maintains access to account tools and utilizes community-maintained filter lists to facilitate an ad-free viewing experience.
Obsidian developing new Fallout game as Avowed 2 is cancelled
Obsidian Entertainment has pivoted to a new Fallout project under director Josh Sawyer following the cancellation of the Avowed sequel. This shift is part of a wider Xbox restructuring that includes significant workforce reductions at the studio.
Viber integrates ChatGPT to add AI tools directly into messaging chats
Rakuten Viber has officially integrated ChatGPT into its messaging platform, enabling users to access AI tools for translation, text editing, and image remixing.
NYT Strands hints and answers for the July 9 puzzle On the Lips
Need help with the July 9 NYT Strands puzzle? This guide provides the spangram and the complete list of theme words for the On the lips challenge.
Obsidian Entertainment reportedly cancels Avowed 2 to develop Fallout game
Obsidian Entertainment is undergoing a major reorganization that includes the reported cancellation of an Avowed sequel and a shift to a new Fallout project.
Seiko Expands Presage Cocktail Time Series With Crushed Ice Dial Trio
Seiko has updated its Presage Cocktail Time collection with three new models featuring geometric 'Crushed Ice' dials and a reduced 38.5mm case diameter. These watches continue to utilize the Caliber 4R35 automatic movement.
Samsung sets July 22 London Unpacked event for new foldable devices
Samsung has scheduled its Galaxy Unpacked event for July 22, 2026, in London to showcase new foldable hardware, wearables, and an evolving AI experience.
DuckDuckGo browser update adds default YouTube ad blocking features
DuckDuckGo has introduced native ad-blocking for video platforms, removing the need for third-party extensions to stop preroll and mid-roll advertisements. The feature is active by default on macOS, Windows, and iOS, while Android users can enable it manually.
Zenith Launches Defy Extreme Lapis Lazuli II and Ultraviolet Chronographs
Zenith has expanded its Defy Extreme collection with two new timepieces that utilize the high-frequency El Primero 9004 automatic calibre. Both models feature the line's signature architectural case designs and are capable of measuring time to 1/100th of a second.
Beats releases Power Pink cables
Beats releases Power Pink cables