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Text-to-speech AI models are a great tool for instances where human voice actors are typically used, such as audiobooks, dubbing, commercials, and more. However, because these models are not human and unaware of what they say, they can sometimes sound noticeably robotic. Hume’s new AI model seeks to tackle this issue.  Also: 10 key reasons AI went mainstream overnight – and what happens next Octave On Wednesday, Hume launched Octave, a text-to-speech large language model (LLM)…

ZDNET’s key takeaways The Lorex 2K Wi-Fi video doorbell is available for $180. The doorbell comes in wired and wireless installations, communicates reliably, and includes a preinstalled 32GB microSD card for local storage so you can bypass subscription fees. Although it has a 2K resolution, the image is so wide angle that objects look distorted. Video doorbells are among the best ways to start your smart home journey. They are easy to use and often…

ZDNET’s key takeaways The Roborock Saros 10R is available for $1,600 This new robot vacuum and mop combination navigates complex areas and quietly vacuums, with a good mopping feature that reaches along the edges to not miss a spot The Saros 10R’s mirrored dock looks great, but the water tank is relatively small, lasting only a few cleanings, and the rotating mop pads aren’t as effective as roller mops, which are becoming more commonplace I’ve…

ZDNET Apple’s follow-up to the budget iPhone SE — the iPhone 16e — is here. As the more affordable option in the lineup, the tech giant cut a few features to keep costs down and make the pricier models more appealing.  One of the notable omissions? MagSafe.  Also: What does the ‘e’ in iPhone 16e stand for? While the iPhone 16e supports older, low-speed Qi wireless charging (capped at 7.5W), it lacks the magnets that…

sjvn/ZDNET ExpressVPN is one of ZDNET’s favorite Virtual Private Networks (VPNs). The popular VPN’s transformation of its Lightway codebase from C to Rust promises to make the service faster and more secure.   For now, the updated Lightway 2.0 is only available via ExpressVPN’s Aircove router with the February 4 AircoveOS v5 update. The Aircove, which we rate as the best VPN router, costs $189. With this device, you can protect your tech from unwanted snoopers…

SASE, ZTNA shape security skills As networking and security technologies converge, advanced security skills are critical to address cybersecurity challenges within network infrastructures and organizations are requiring networking professionals to have a deeper understanding of security concepts and be able to take on security-focused roles. “There are organizations that are encouraging people to get more understanding and more experience within security, but they are also upskilling their staff to help them get more experience because…

“It’s capacity-constrained and it’s expensive to the point where it’s quite difficult for folks that are not in the highest echelons to get easy access to compute,” Bochev said. Democratizing access to compute Compute Exchange aims to be a neutral, self-regulated exchange with an auction-based system where prices are driven by market demand. Buyers pay only for what they need, and can resell unused capacity. “Compute Exchange is certainly unique,” said Kimball, pointing out that…

Due to remote and hybrid work, you likely have a home office setup of some sort — and that setup usually includes a printer. Printers are essential for creating hard copies of work assignments. Students need a printer for their essays, notes, and other tasks. You may also need one for legal documents or even for creating travel itineraries for your next holiday.  There’s nothing worse than your printer refusing to function when you’re on…