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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…

ZDNET’s key takeaways These 240W USB-C connectors have a MagSafe-type mechanism that makes them safer and more secure than standard connectors, available now on Amazon with a 30% off coupon. They’re a must-have for travelers, tech enthusiasts, and folks who often switch between different cables and ports. Just be mindful of where you store these connectors, as they are small and potentially easy to lose, especially the ends (although you can buy spare ones). This…

ZDNET’s key takeaways The LG S95TR soundbar with wireless subwoofer is optimized for the company’s OLED TVs with immersive audio features. The LGS95TR may be expensive, but the high-quality audio is easily worth the price. The soundbar has many features, but some of the best ones require a newer LG TV model. more buying choices LG released the S95TR soundbar earlier this year, following much hype, as a high-end complement to its newest OLED TVs. The…

ZDNET’s key takeaways Razer’s Laptop Cooling Pad is on sale for $150 on the brand’s digital storefront. It takes the average cooling pad to newer heights by delivering powerful cooling, customizable buttons, and ergonomic design. Although, it is rather expensive and demands a lot of space. more buying choices Laptop cooling pads are functionally simple. Plug the accessory into a power source, and the device immediately begins cooling the computer down. Some offer on-device controls…

Adam Breeden/ZDNET The HDMI Forum, responsible for developing HDMI technology standards, has announced plans to reveal the new HDMI 2.2 specification at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas on Jan. 6. According to the press release, the forthcoming specification will likely be called “HDMI 2.2” and feature new display transfer wizardry that should provide higher bandwidth and a “wide range of higher resolutions and refresh rates.”  Also: The best HDMI splitters of 2024: Expert…

As someone who experiences regular power outages due to storms and random occurrences, I’ve learned that having a backup plan for electric outages is essential for my home. While you can always use a gasoline- or propane-powered generator, a battery system can be a renewable, zero-emissions way to provide your home with an efficient backup solution. Also: The best portable power stations of 2024: Expert tested and reviewed A set of backup batteries can offer…