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It’s almost 2025, and if you’re using throwaway batteries, it’s time to make the switch to rechargeable batteries. Not only will this change save you serious cash, but it will also make a massive dent on the ever-increasing pile of e-waste we produce.  However, remember that not all rechargeable batteries are created equal. The market is flooded with a dizzying array of options, making it a real challenge to separate the gems from the duds….

David Gewirtz/ZDNET Over the past few months, we’ve taken a comprehensive deep dive into the popularity of programming languages. Also: The most popular programming languages in 2024 But how do you measure popularity? That’s been a big part of the question. Is it the number of GitHub projects? Is it the number of posts on popular programming forums? Is it based on surveys? What really determines the popularity of programming languages? Also: The rise and…

Paul Souders/Getty Images I use the Linux command line daily, but that’s because I learned Linux the hard way and those old lessons stuck. Most users could go their entire Linux lifetime and never run a single command. Some will use the very basic commands (such as ls, mkdir, and cd), while others might dive into more complicated options. Still, there are a handful of commands that I consider to be must-know — even though…

J Studios/Getty Images When generative AI is discussed in relation to newsrooms, one typically thinks of the negatives, such as lawsuits or related issues with copyright, model training, or the threat of replacing reporters. However, some publications are embracing the technology, including The Washington Post, which launched its generative AI tool to optimize users’ content consumption.   Last week, The Washington Post debuted an experimental generative AI tool called “Ask The Post AI,” which allows…

d3sign/Getty Images The company behind NordVPN has created a new service called NordProtect that’s geared toward protecting users from identity theft. This new product includes features such as identity recovery and restoration, secure credit monitoring, 24/7 dark web monitoring, and cyber extortion protection. The identity recovery and restoration feature enables victims of identity theft to be reimbursed up to $1 million for expenses — such as legal costs or lost wages — that are incurred while…

Satellite phones are an absolute game-changer if you’re venturing into remote areas that lay beyond the reach of traditional mobile networks or during emergencies or natural disasters. Unlike standard smartphones that rely on cellular networks made up of physical towers, satellite phones communicate directly with satellites orbiting about 500 miles above Earth, ensuring you stay connected even in the most isolated locations. Maintaining contact in an area with inadequate cellular coverage is challenging, so a satellite…

Apple/ZDNET Black Friday is still a couple weeks away, but some retailers are offering seasonal savings much earlier. The new Apple Watch Series 10, released in September, is already one of the items seeing early holiday savings. The Watch Series 10 is now on sale for $349 at Walmart — a discount of $50, the biggest drop we’ve seen so far. The price drop, part of Walmart’s Black Friday Deals event, is live for Walmart+ members right now,…

ZDNET’s key takeaways For $100, the Soundcore C40i are decent open earbuds with a mid-range price tag. The button controls make it simple to command music — far better than any touch control I’ve used on higher-end earbuds. The earbuds are chunky and, after a while, tend to make your ears ring. Yet another pair of open earbuds has entered the market. This fall product launch season is rife with this new-ish style of earbud…

ZDNET’s key takeaways This is a rugged smartphone that isn’t too chunky. It has a fantastic camera and battery life. I’m not sold on the 100-megapixel feature. Rugged Android smartphones have a reputation for being big, bulky, and unattractive. That said, they don’t have to be overly large, cumbersome, or unsightly! They can also incorporate some cool, cutting-edge technology. Also: The best power banks you can buy: Expert tested The Doogee S200 packs a lot into…

There are several factors to consider when choosing a robot mop. Here are a few you’ll want to keep in mind:  Floor types: Some robot mops are equipped to work with certain floor types, like laminate or hardwood. Others work better for stone or marble. Before you buy, consider the floors in your home and which mop is most appropriate. Mapping: For full automation, your robot mop must have a mapping feature to navigate each…