NETWORKING

ZDNET’s key takeaways The OnePlus Open is available for $1,300, and the company offers various trade-in deals on a range of existing phones. This foldable phone has a vibrant large main display, customizable ringer switch, ample RAM and storage, and three powerful rear cameras. While the hardware supports a stylus, OnePlus doesn’t provide access to one; it only supports an IPX4 water-resistant rating; and there is no wireless charging capability. more buying choices In 2019,…

ZDNET’s key takeaways The Bird Buddy is available for $219. This bird feeder has a camera that takes beautiful pictures, is easy to set up, and features bird identification. It does require recharging once a week unless you have the solar option, needs to be within Wi-Fi range, and can miss some bird visitors. more buying choices The bird feeders in my yard have always been an attraction for those watching from the couch, especially…

What is the best VPN for your smart TV right now? ZDNET’s favorite VPN for smart TVs is NordVPN. This VPN combines excellent speed, server connections, security, and a plethora of ways you can use it with your smart TV — including with Android-based TVs, Apple TVs, Amazon Fire Sticks, and gaming consoles. Also: The best VPN services: Expert tested ZDNET writers have decades of experience, combined, in testing and reviewing VPN software. We understand how…

Kerry Wan/ZDNET For the past few years, Nothing has been synonymous with mid-range Android phones that offer an aesthetic no other phone manufacturer can match. The Nothing phones are unique devices, beloved by fans. The company recently announced that the Nothing Phone 3 will be its first true flagship phone, and that should have fans champing at the bit to get their hands on the next iteration. Also: These are still one of my favorite…

Jason Hiner/ZDNET I am a user of tools. I work a great many hours each week. Anytime I find a tool that helps me meet my deadlines, do something I otherwise couldn’t do, or get a little more sleep or personal time, I add it to my kit bag, even if that means spending some money. For example, I’ve invested in an entire army of camera robots because they help me turn out better and…

Telecommunications and networking provider Ericsson recently launched its generative AI-based virtual assistant that uses large language model (LLM) technology to read, understand, and generate new content to provide personalized answers for network operators configuring wireless 5G networks, troubleshooting problems, and creating policies. Ericsson’s AI-based NetCloud Assistant, or ANA, is LLM-based and provides concise responses and summaries to queries using information gathered from multiple sources. ANA offers productivity enhancements as it gathers information across technical documents…

Using Visual Intelligence, you can also dig up details on public places, such as businesses, stores, restaurants, supermarkets, and museums. Depending on the business, you should be able to find the hours of operation, services offered, and contact information. With restaurants, supermarkets, and other places, you can also make reservations, order items, and request deliveries. This option works only in the US and only if you’re in front of the actual place. To try this,…

Nina Raemont/ZDNET ZDNET’s key takeaways  For $99, the new Nothing Ear (a) earbuds offer clear sound and a thoughtful design.  Their affordability, comfort, and long battery life make them a great option for budget-conscious shoppers. They’re so great that I’ve taken them practically everywhere: on flights, to work in the office, and to run my first half marathon. Unfortunately, its middling noise-canceling tech doesn’t protect you from external noises.  Most of the audio tech on the…

Adrian Kingsley-Hughes/ZDNET If you need to be connected to the internet but there’s no Wi-Fi or cellular signal nearby, and not even an Ethernet port in sight, then you have to look up to the skies — to the satellites whooshing 340 miles above your head at dizzying speeds. Also: Do wind power generators actually work at home? My firsthand experience says it all I’ve tried a number of systems, from basic messenger units like the Garmin…

Kerry Wan/ZDNET MSI’s Claw 8 AI+ has been redesigned for a grippier, more grown-up-looking form factor with Intel’s “Lunar Lake” Core Ultra 7 processor and some physical improvements based on user feedback. The result is a lightweight, versatile gaming handheld with access to a wide variety of titles and good battery performance. Meaningful upgrades I had a chance to take the Claw 8 AI+ for a spin ahead of CES 2025 and immediately noticed the step up…