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ZDNET Update: We’ve pulled the original content, which recommended Wubuntu, from this article. Your trust in ZDNET’s recommendations is very important to us, and part of protecting that trust is letting you know when we’ve gotten something wrong and making it right.  During my test period of the Windows-like Wubuntu distribution (which was roughly a week), I had no problems with it. However, after that week passed, something strange happened in the form of a…

ZDNET Ah, 2024. You were a year, that’s for certain. You had 365 days, each a slat on the roller coaster rails that moved us forward while also taking us to higher highs and lower lows. One thing is for certain: 2024 saw a lot of incredible Linux distributions released. There was a new Ubuntu, Fedora, Linux Mint, Rhino Linux, EndeavorOS, Manjaro, Zorin OS, openSUSE, Nobara, Garuda, and many more, all of which shined in…

Casio Have you ever wished there was a smart ring that’s a little less “smart” and a lot more “watch”? You probably haven’t, but Casio is offering an answer for those who have. To commemorate the 50th anniversary of its iconic digital watch, the company is releasing a tiny, ring-sized version that fits around your finger. The $120 device might seem like a smart ring at first, but it certainly doesn’t look the part, and it doesn’t…

ZDNET Recently, Google has been developing new artificial intelligence-powered tools that transform writing and text materials and YouTube videos into audio or podcasts to assist researchers in their learning processes. The company is now experimenting with a new AI-powered tool called Illuminate, which enables users to convert lengthy, dense research papers and books into concise AI-generated audio conversations. Google describes the tool as an “experimental technology that uses AI to adapt content to your learning preferences.” Also: This Google AI tool could…

Unfair practices and strategic risks The Biden administration has alleged that China’s dominance stems from anti-competitive practices, including cyber intrusions, forced technology transfers, and underpricing chips by 30% to 50% — often below production costs. Katherine Tai, the US Trade Representative, explained that these artificially low prices are forcing out competitors and consolidating China’s control over the market. “China’s acts, policies, and practices appear to have and to threaten detrimental impacts on the United States…

ZDNET Generative AI has only been around for two years as an emerging technology, but it has already taken its place as a must-have tool for technology professionals. Job postings mentioning gen AI increased by a factor of 3.5x over the past year. For technology professionals, this points to a shift in emphasis in their day-to-day work. But given that it is now a mainstream skill, is it even necessary to include gen AI competencies…

ZDNET’s key takeaways The Tuxedo Computers InfinityBook Pro 14 Gen 9 is available now on the official site. This laptop outperformed my expectations in every way, with a powerful CPU and a gorgeous display. Use caution when selecting your keyboard during the order process. I love a good laptop or desktop that comes pre-installed with Linux. When said hardware is equal parts beauty and power, it’s even better. When German company Tuxedo Computers sent me…

ZDNET’s key takeaways The new Ecovacs Deebot N30 Omni is available for $799 This mid-range robot vacuum and mop features auto-emptying, mop washing and drying, and strong suction, which we were able to confirm during testing The downside is that the Deebot N30 Omni doesn’t boast the best obstacle avoidance capabilities, which significantly hinders how often you have to rescue it after it gets stuck on a small object. I’ve tested robot vacuums in all…

ZDNET’s key takeaways Lenovo’s sixth-generation ThinkPad T14s is available now, starting at $1,598. It’s is a powerful workhorse thanks to the new AMD Ryzen AI chipset and support for the speedy Wi-Fi 7 standard. Its display, on the other hand, isn’t all that impressive considering its price tag. Whenever Lenovo isn’t pushing the boundaries of laptop design, the brand is creating high-quality personal work computers like the new ThinkPad T14s Gen 6. On the surface the…

ZDNET’s key takeaways Pinwheel phones start at $100 and offer parental control features. There’s a curated app store and call and text history. While phones are inexpensive, the Pinwheel features are available through a quarterly or annual subscription, on top of a mobile data plan. more buying choices Second grade feels too young to get a smartphone, yet my second-grader welcomes the idea with open arms. While she loves her Fitbit Ace LTE for communication…