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Jason Hiner/ZDNET Soundbars are gaining in popularity because of their sleek design and ability to provide an ample boost in audio quality compared to built-in TV speakers. Even with their plug-and-play nature, you can make a few modifications to help unleash the best possible sound quality.  Also: The best soundbars of 2024: Expert tested and recommended Whether you’re new to soundbar setups or a self-proclaimed audiophile, familiarizing yourself with some key settings can take your viewing…

It’s very likely that nation states will deploy quantum computers to crack the most sensitive messages even before the technology is widely available for commercial use. Plus, there are the “harvest now, decrypt later” attacks where adversaries vacuum up valuable communications or data, then decrypt them when the technology becomes available, says Forrester analyst Brian Hopkins. “Even if quantum decryption is a decade away, attackers could steal encrypted data today,” he says. “Companies should begin…

Yes, holiday hosting can be a ball, but it can also be a pain in the neck. You’re cleaning before guests arrive and deep cleaning after they leave. There’s constant commotion in the kitchen as you prepare food and mix drinks. There’s the music and overall vibe curation that takes lots of time and energy to get right. And, there’s always that one person who spills red wine on the sofa or breaks your favorite…

Adrian Kingsley-Hughes/ZDNET I handle and review a bewildering array of gadgets throughout the year, from cables to satellite communicators. However, I feel that the real test for any product is whether it can make the shift from something I reviewed into something that I use long-term. That is what this list represents — gadgets that transitioned from mere review assignments to become essential parts of my kit. These are the things that live in my…

Alcuin/Getty Images I’ve been on Bluesky for some time now, and I’ve found it to be exponentially better than X. It offers a similar layout without the deluge of ads, algorithm-driven feeds, and irrelevant (and often offensive) content.  Bluesky also offers features that X doesn’t (and likely never will). Notably, Bluesky puts moderation in your hands — and that makes a big difference.  Also: 7 things to know about Bluesky before you join – and…

MirageC/Getty Images I’m always taking notes. Whether it’s for a book I’m writing, an idea for a book to be written, an item I need to add to a shopping list, or just about anything else that pops to mind, I turn to my Android phone to jot things down. Without a good note-keeping app, I’d have a heck of a time remembering those all-too-important ideas or thoughts I need to keep track of.  Also:…

Which iPhones are compatible with Apple Intelligence? While Apple Intelligence is available with iOS 18.2, which is coming to all iPhone models newer than the iPhone X, not all iPhones compatible with iOS 18 are compatible with Apple Intelligence. Here are all the iPhones compatible with Apple Intelligence: iPhone 16 iPhone 16 Plus iPhone 16 Pro iPhone 16 Pro Max iPhone 15 Pro iPhone 15 Pro Max Additionally, Apple Intelligence is available for iPads and…

ZDNET’s key takeaways The Gemtones Infinity Max Bluetooth speaker is available now from the official Speck site. With a beautiful array of lights and a unique “infinity look,” this speaker is certainly a conversation starter. The sound could benefit from a custom EQ option in the Speck app. Bluetooth speakers are everywhere; some offer killer sound, while others sacrifice a bit of aural quality to cut costs or simply because not everyone is an audiophile….

Which iPhones are compatible with Apple Intelligence? While Apple Intelligence is available with iOS 18.2, which is coming to all iPhone models newer than the iPhone X, not all iPhones compatible with iOS 18 are compatible with Apple Intelligence. Here are all the iPhones compatible with Apple Intelligence: iPhone 16 iPhone 16 Plus iPhone 16 Pro iPhone 16 Pro Max iPhone 15 Pro iPhone 15 Pro Max Additionally, Apple Intelligence is available for iPads and…

MirageC/Getty Images I’m always taking notes. Whether it’s for a book I’m writing, an idea for a book to be written, an item I need to add to a shopping list, or just about anything else that pops to mind, I turn to my Android phone to jot things down. Without a good note-keeping app, I’d have a heck of a time remembering those all-too-important ideas or thoughts I need to keep track of.  Also:…