Fresh information on the Galaxy S25 Slim has appeared too
And we might know the thinness of the S25 Slim
It's honestly getting hard to keep up with the Samsung Galaxy S25 leaks at this point, with overlapping rumors coming in from multiple sources ahead of an expected January 22 launch – and we just got more unconfirmed details of the upcoming flagship series.
First up there's news from tipster Abhishek Yadav (via Android Authority) that the Galaxy S25, the Galaxy S25 Plus, and the Galaxy S25 Ultra are all going to top out at 12GB of RAM, with 256GB, 512GB, or 1TB of storage available (and 128GB for the cheapest Galaxy S25).
While that would be a bump up from the 8GB that the Galaxy S24 starts with, it would mean there's no increase in RAM for the Ultra model – as our Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra review will tell you, it comes with 12GB of RAM as well.
Considering we'd heard multiple rumors that the Galaxy S25 Ultra would hit 16GB next year, it's somewhat disappointing to hear a contradictory report. Nevertheless, a RAM boat for the Galaxy S25 and Galaxy S25 Plus would be very welcome.
A new Slim model is coming too
Galaxy S25 Slim (SM-S937x/DS) :• 6.66" display (like S25+)• 200MP HP5 main camera• 50MP JN5 UW• 50MP JN5 3.5X telephoto• SD 8 Elite• ~4700mAh - 5000mAh🔋Launching in Q2, 2025 - similar to A & FE series launch timeline.December 20, 2024
Next up we have a few more details of the rumored Galaxy S25 Slim – a fourth model that could arrive several months after the others. As per @Gadgetsdata (via SamMobile), this phone is going to have the same 6.66-inch display as the Galaxy S25 Plus.
We're apparently looking at the same Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset on this model too, while the battery capacity is said to be between 4,700mAh-5,000mAh. As for the rear camera, a high-end, triple-lens 200MP+50MP+50MP module with 3.5x optical zoom is rumored.
Those camera specs are at the level we're expecting from the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra, so it looks like this is going to be a premium handset to be reckoned with – and there have been previous leaks about its camera prowess.
Finally, well-known tipster Ice Universe (via Notebookcheck) reckons the Galaxy S25 Slim might be 6.x mm thick – and whatever that last digit is, that would make it significantly thinner than the 7.6 mm thickness of the Samsung Galaxy S24.
New QLC technology boosts storage capacity and performance
High-Speed Link Startup Sequence reduces initialization time by 70%
Enhanced security features protect sensitive user data effectively
The growing demands of mobile technology have increased the need for high-capacity and high-speed data storage, and as digital devices continue to advance, the industry seeks a way to handle larger data loads while delivering fast and efficient performance.
Kioxia has now launched the mass production of its latest innovation: the industry’s first QLC UFS 4.0 embedded flash memory device.
The new device is designed with quadruple-level cell (QLC) technology and comes with a higher bit density and increased storage capacity thanks to Universal Flash Storage (UFS) technology.
High-speed performance for demanding applications
With this new QLC UFS 4.0 device, Kioxia offers higher storage capacity within a compact structure which not only benefits compact devices like mobile phones and tablets but also PCs, networking systems, and emerging fields like AR, VR, and AI that require robust storage solutions.
Kioxia’s QLC UFS 4.0 device has impressive data transfer rates with the device reaching sequential read speeds of up to 4,200 MB/s and sequential write speeds of up to 3,200 MB/s. These speeds are achieved by utilizing the UFS 4.0 interface, which supports interface speeds as high as 23.2 Gbps per lane or 46.4 Gbps per device.
This combination of QLC storage with the latest UFS interface technology provides a significant performance boost, making it well-suited for data-heavy applications. As a result, users can expect faster file transfers, smoother streaming, and more efficient multitasking, particularly for mobile and high-performance computing devices.
Kioxia’s new QLC UFS 4.0 device is also built on its proprietary BiCS FLASH 3D flash memory, known for its durability and efficiency. Designed to meet the JEDEC standard, the UFS 4.0 package combines this advanced memory with a dedicated controller to optimize performance. With backward compatibility with UFS 3.1, Kioxia’s UFS 4.0 devices offer an upgrade path for users.
To enhance its practical application, Kioxia’s QLC UFS 4.0 device features a High-Speed Link Startup Sequence (HS-LSS), a new method that accelerates device-to-host initialization. By allowing link startup at a faster HS-G1 Rate A rather than the conventional slower speed, HS-LSS reduces link startup time by about 70%.
In addition to faster initialization, the device also includes enhanced security capabilities with Advanced Replay Protected Memory Block (RPMB) features. These security measures protect user data by securing access to sensitive information, such as credentials. With RPMB Purge, users can also ensure that discarded data is fully sanitized, adding another layer of confidence in data protection.
Furthermore, Kioxia’s QLC UFS Ver. 4.0 device supports an Extended Initiator ID (Ext-IID), which is designed to work with Multi Circular Queue (MCQ) in the UFS 4.0 host controller. This feature boosts random performance, a critical component for devices requiring fast and distributed access to data across multiple applications. With Ext-IID, the device is better equipped to manage complex data tasks, providing faster, more efficient performance for users with demanding workloads.
- Renewed in December 2022
- Will be released on February 14, 2025
- First trailer officially revealed
- Main cast expected to return
- Hilary Swank and Joel McHale to guest star
- No official plot details released yet
- Season 2 finale teases potential story threads
- Showrunners have plans for more seasons
Yellowjackets season 3 is undoubtedly hotly-anticipated considering it's one of the best shows on Paramount Plus. A delicious mix of survival thriller and coming-of-age drama, the show follows two timelines – one in 1996 as a group of female high school soccer players find themselves deserted in the wilderness after their plane crashes, and one, in the present day where they're attempting to cope with the fallout.
Season 1 and 2 laid out the girls fight for survival, resorting to cannibalism to stay alive. Yet, in the present-day timeline, the survivors are still trying to piece their lives back together, 25 years on, with the past coming back to haunt them. As the show’s official logline says, “the past is never really past”.
Season 3 returns on February 14, 2025. Yes, that's Valentines Day, and no, we're not expecting Yellowjackets to suddenly become a romance. Though, even as a show filled with horror and hard-to-watch moments, there's still a multitude of storylines to explore in season 3, one of which delves deeper into a connection. Here's everything you need to know from cast predictions, to plot speculation, and more.
Full spoilers follow forYellowjacketsseason 1 and 2. Potential spoilers are also discussed for season 3.
Yellowjackets season 3 officially has a release date – and it's February 14, 2025. The show was renewed back in December 2022, before season 2 was even released, so it's no surprise that we've got news to share. The first two episodes will drop on Valentine's Day, if you're craving a thrilling night-in, and the rest will follow on February 16.
Entertainment Weekly previously reported a bonus episode was coming to bridge the gap between season 2 and 3, though Lyle confirmed: “The truth is that there is a bonus episode but we may need to wait a bit longer for it.” There's not long left for this secret drop to happen, but we'll keep our eyes peeled.
Yellowjackets season 3 trailer
The Yellowjackets season 3 trailer teases more spine-chilling savagery and was unveiled in early December, just a couple of months before season 3's arrival. Across 80 seconds, it hints that: “the past will come back to haunt you", which is suitably apt for the way Yellowjackets has gone so far.
It also continues to tease that someone is trying to kill the island’s survivors. And that's not the only threat as an unknown person is seen hiding behind a Yellowjackets survivors’ notorious cannibalism mask, meaning there’s most likely going to be more people-eating in season 3. Most notably though is a brief glimpse at Hilary Swank's guest-starring role. Though we don't know who she plays yet, it seems she's been bloodied by something and doesn't look particularly calm about it.
Yellowjackets season 3 confirmed cast
Taissa, Van, Jeff and Shauna in Yellowjackets season 3(Image credit: Paramount Plus)
Spoilers follow forYellowjacketsseason 1 and 2.
Here's the confirmed cast for Yellowjackets season 3 so far:
There’s two new cast members joining Yellowjackets season 3; Hilary Swank and Joel McHale. Deadline revealed in September 2024 that Swank was joining the cast as a recurring guest star. In the report, it also said: “I hear there is an option for her to become a series regular should the hit series get a fourth season.” From the trailer featured above, we know that she exists in the present-day timeline, though her character is yet to be revealed. For Joel McHale, as per Variety, Yellowjackets season 3 will also see the Community alum guest star. Though exact details of his character are also being kept firmly under wraps.
Yellowjackets season 3 story synopsis and rumors
What's next for Misty in Yellowjackets season 3?(Image credit: Paramount Plus)
Full spoilers follow forYellowjacketsseasons 1 and 2.
There’s a lot to discuss when it comes to where Yellowjackets season 3 could take the story next. In an exclusive first look, Entertainment Weekly spoke to co-creator Ashley Lyle who revealed that, “there’s a little bit of a time jump in both timelines” in season 3.
The best place to start when it comes to the plot synopsis for Yellowjackets season 3 is by taking a look at the season 2 finale where both timelines were in trouble. In the past, the shelter where the girls had been staying was burnt to the ground in an epic finale. How? It appears as though Coach Ben was responsible, as well as locking the girls inside, since he was last seen standing outside with a box of matches. Very suspicious.
The group also have a new leader and Antler Queen – Natalie. While Shauna was left seething from the choice that Lottie made, there’s clearly some tensions to explore in season 3. During an interview with EW, Sophie Thatcher who plays young Natalie said: “I have no idea if people will actually follow through with her being leader. That’s exciting to think about. But the writers are always surprising us.”
Season 2 saw Lottie's wellness retreat take center stage(Image credit: Paramount Plus)
In the present-day timeline, Shauna became the next target as Lottie led the women on another hunt. Though she’s saved, by her daughter, just in time. Lottie, Van, Natalie, Misty, Taissa, and Shauna reunited at Lottie's sinister wellness retreat.
The reunion quickly took a turn when Lottie stated that they needed to sacrifice someone to the wilderness, beginning the ritual they created in the past. From this stemmed one of the most shocking parts of the season 2 finale, the death of Natalie (Juliette Lewis). Viewers witnessed as she was accidentally killed by Misty (Christina Ricci), who was trying to save her and kill Lisa instead. The repercussions of which are sure to play out in season 3.
Nickerson reveals plans to further explore Van and Taissa's relationship(Image credit: Paramount Plus)
Plus, there’s the relationship between Van and Taissa to explore. Co-creator Bart Nickerson told EW: “One of the things that we have always been trying to play with, but maybe this season even more so is that, as a result of a lot of their experiences, they’ve obviously put a lot of terrible stuff away, but they’re also trying to recapture some of the best of themselves from that time, too. Some of that will be explored through that relationship.”
Speaking with Vanity Fair, Lyle said, when it comes to season 3, there's "at least two very big questions" that they'll be answering. Adding: "We are going to learn more about what happened in the wilderness that they are so afraid of coming out. We hope it will be both satisfying and at times unexpected." Plus, in a X/Twitter post, she said: "Are we gonna get weirder? Probably! Will the fallout of *redacted*’s death affect our (anti)heroes in massive ways? Will our girls’ struggle to survive against the elements (and themselves) get even down and dirtier? Do we still have to tell the story of Pit Girl? You betcha!"
Where to watch Yellowjackets season 1 and 2?
Yellowjackets is available for Paramount Plus with Showtime subscribers(Image credit: Paramount Plus)
For Yellowjackets, there's a lot more story to explore(Image credit: Paramount Plus)
While there's no official news around Yellowjackets season 4, the show was renewed for season 3 before season 2 even came out, so there could be something to share sooner rather than later. Though Melanie Lynskey, who plays Shauna, posted on X/Twitter: "Look I'll do this show forever if they let me."
And it appears while it may not be forever, there could at least be a couple more seasons of Yellowjackets coming. Speaking with EW, Lyle revealed: "The original plan was about five seasons, and we feel like we're still on track for that." Though she added: "There's always room for things,' though "we don't really see this as being more than a five-season show. I think that there are shows that can go forever, but I think that when you're telling such a deeply serialized story and it's about these characters' lives, you want to reach a satisfying conclusion and not just drag things out forever."
The year is coming to a close but we have time for at least one more ICYMI round-up to catch you up on the most important tech announcements before the holidays, and more importantly, CES 2025 land.
This week we saw leaks galore for the Samsung Galaxy S25, Nintendo Switch 2, and new Ray-Ban smart glasses, as well as getting a trailer for Superman which introduced us to a very good boy in Krypto.
You can't watch Superman yet, but if you've caught up on the week's news and are looking for something to fill your downtime, then check out our picks for the seven new movies and TV shows to stream this weekend.
7. Panasonic brought back the point-and-shoot camera
(Image credit: Panasonic)
One thing we didn't have on the 2024 bingo card was a new point-and-shoot camera, even though it's a trending market this year. So it was surprising when Panasonic announced the Lumix ZS99 / TZ99 (it's called the former in the US and the latter elsewhere), which will be available from February 2025.
The pocketable snapper packs a Leica lens with a whopping 30x optical zoom – a 24-720mm range that's way more versatile than your smartphone, and which can be doubled digitally to 60x using Panasonic's iZoom feature. It shoots 20.3MP photos and 4K video, supported by Panasonic's 5-axis image stabilization for sharp shots. That all sounds fab, but it's actually 10-year-old tech borrowed from the Lumix ZS80 / TZ80 it replaces, and the newer model is arguably a downgrade because the EVF (electronic viewfinder) has been removed.
So why the new model? It's got USB-C charging, meaning the green light to stay on the shelves come 2025 when the EU's Common Charger Directive comes into force. So it's not so much a comeback for the point-and-shoot camera, but a case of keeping it alive… just.
We only just talked about the Nintendo Switch 2 leaking in last week's ICYMI round-up, but it's happened again, with the upcoming console being shown off not once but twice more.
When announcing its new Killswitch 2 case for the incoming hardware, Dbrand seemingly showed it off with a 3D render of the handheld inside, which its CEO says is based on a "3D scan of the real hardware".
Then we apparently got another look at the hardware thanks to YouTube channel NerdNest publishing a video that showcases what appears to be a dummy model of the Switch 2, which they apparently got from a third-party accessory manufacturer, iVoler.
We're still yet to see the Nintendo Switch 2 for real, but the leaks do seem to suggest that those of you wishing for a major redesign will be sorely disappointed. Maybe this will be one of those occasions where we'd have been better off being in the dark beforehand.
5. The Samsung Galaxy S25 also leaked left, right, and center
(Image credit: Evan Blass)
Leaks are commonplace in the consumer tech industry, but someone at Samsung clearly left the tap on, as this week we were treated to numerous design, spec, and release date revelations surrounding the upcoming Galaxy S25 series.
We were already pretty certain that the rumored Galaxy S25 would be announced on January 22, and that date was all but confirmed on Wednesday by a leaked launch event poster, which teased the imminent release of four (yes, four) Galaxy phones.
The Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses are good, but they could be better, and a leak from this week suggests that Meta is gearing up to give the specs their most requested upgrade in 2025: a display.
That’s according to the Wall Street Journal, which says “a person familiar with the project” suggested that the Ray-Bans would get a “single small in-lens screen” to give users a small HUD that will save them from always needing to take their phone out of their pocket.
It won’t be as feature-packed as the consumer version of the Meta Orion AR glasses prototype which wowed us this year, but it’s a step in the right direction and adds credence to a rumor that suggests Orion will arrive in 2027 – which is a lot closer than it seems.
It’s still seven months away from being released, but the DCU Chapter One movie’s first trailer was revealed this week – and, we don’t know about you, but we’re utterly obsessed with Superman’s best friend in Krypto the Superdog, who stole the show upon the teaser’s reveal. Indeed, he already seems like he’ll be a very good – albeit mischievous – boy, so roll on July 11, 2025, we say!
2. ChatGPT came to WhatsApp as part of a 12-day-long event
(Image credit: OpenAI)
OpenAI surprised everybody this week by announcing, as part of its ‘12 Days of OpenAI’, that we can now text ChatGPT via WhatsApp. You just need to add ChatGPT as a contact in WhatsApp – its number is 1-800-CHATGPT – and you can text it just as you would any other WhatsApp contact. If you’re outside the US then make sure you add it as a US phone number, and it will still work.
Using WhatsApp for ChatGPT is perfect for quick interactions like asking ChatGPT if there are any good food locations nearby or what you should visit while you’re in town. And if texting doesn’t float your boat then (provided you have a US number) you can call ChatGPT on the phone and talk to it using Voice mode. You get 15 minutes of conversation a month on a free account, but longer if you’re a ChatGPT Plus subscriber.
1. Google revealed its Sora-beating AI video generator
(Image credit: Google)
Just last week, OpenAI fully launched Sora, its much-anticipated AI video generator. Well, Google has already revealed an update to its video generation tool and Veo 2 might be the best we’ve seen yet.
Google’s Veo AI video generator update adds huge improvements like 4K resolution output and a focus on “an improved understanding of real-world physics and the nuances of human movement and expression," which helps improve its detail and realism overall.
Veo 2 has launched as part of Google Labs, and you can join a waitlist to access the AI video generator as long as you’re over 18 and based in the US. Google is set to roll out the AI model in 2025, and as soon as we get our hands on it we’ll be sure to pit it against Sora to see which AI tool comes out on top.
The Galaxy Store in the US has some new freebies to offer
See an exclusive clip of the upcoming Squid Game season 2
You can also get three months of Peacock Premium
Those of you with a Samsung Galaxy phone and a love of streaming entertainment are getting two free treats from Samsung just ahead of the holidays: an exclusive clip from Squid Game season 2 on Netflix, and three free months of Peacock Premium.
As per Samsung's announcement (via Android Police), you need to head over to the Galaxy Store to claim these benefits. As long as you download Netflix and Peacock from there, and are in the US, the perks should show up.
First up there's a clip from Squid Game season 2 inside the Netflix app, which Samsung says hasn't been made public before. The hit show is returning on December 26, so it's a way of whetting the appetite before the next batch of episodes drop.
Samsung also points out that the Squid Game: Unleashed game is now available from Netflix as well – though this isn't a Samsung Galaxy or US exclusive. If you want to take on players from around the world in Squid Game, head to the download page.
Get Peacock Premium
Load up Peacock for free for three months(Image credit: Shutterstock/DANIEL CONSTANTE)
The second bonus for Samsung Galaxy owners, via the Galaxy Store, is three free months of Peacock Premium – enough to get you through the holidays and beyond. This is an offer for first-time subscribers who haven't signed up before.
Peacock Premium would usually set you back $7.99 a month, so you can save yourself close to $24 with this Samsung deal. It's the cheapest Peacock plan, so there are also ads included, and you don't get the offline download support.
The Peacock streaming service gives you access to shows such as Parks and Recreation, Saturday Night Live, The Office, 30 Rock, Poker Face, Yellowstone, and The Day of the Jackal (a show we're particularly impressed by at TechRadar).
You have until June 4, 2025 to claim the deal, so there's no need to rush. Samsung has also announced that Spotify is now available on the Galaxy Store too, so you've got another reason to visit it instead of the Google Play Store.
A leaked image of a Spigen case for the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra matches up with previous leaks
As Spigen is a major brand, there's a high chance the details are accurate
We've also heard again that every Galaxy S25 model might have at least 12GB of RAM
Numerous leaked images have already shown off what the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra might look like, but today we’ve seen perhaps the most credible yet, as it comes from a major case maker.
Leaker @Jukanlosreve has shared an image of a Spigen case for the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra, and with Spigen being a major brand, it’s likely that Samsung would have shared design details with the company so it can prepare cases ahead of the phone’s launch.
The design in question matches what we’ve seen before; there's a quad-lens camera laid out the same way as the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra’s, and slightly curvier corners than on the current model. So, there’s not really anything new here, especially as we can only see the shape of the back of the phone, but this is yet more evidence that the leaks we’ve seen previously are correct.
(Image credit: @Jukanlosreve)
Of course, while Spigen is a major brand, it’s possible that this image has been faked, but it looks genuine, and @Jukanlosreve has a good track record for leaks, so it’s unlikely they’d share this if they didn’t think it was the real deal.
More RAM than ever
In other Samsung Galaxy S25 news, leaker @yabhishekhd (via Android Police) has claimed that the Samsung Galaxy S25 and Samsung Galaxy S25 Plus will ship with 12GB of RAM, even in their base versions. This means that unlike in the S24 series – where the standard Samsung Galaxy S24 had 8GB of RAM – there won’t be any 8GB models in the Samsung Galaxy S25 line.
We’ll probably find out for sure how much RAM these phones have on January 22, as based on numerous leaks that’s likely the Samsung Galaxy S25 release date.
The past few weeks have shown us how digital landscapes shape our social, political, and economic lives. This has been using misinformation and disinformation to stir up and generate a real-world response.
As a result of the digital world's impact, the rise of hacktivism has become an influential force in advocating for change and drawing attention to perceived injustices. Hacktivism, the use of hacking to promote political ends, often presents itself as a modern form of civil disobedience, challenging power structures and exposing wrongdoing.
Examples of Hacktivism can be seen throughout the world including Belarusian cyber groups attempting to slow Russian troops in opposition of the ongoing war against Ukraine as well as during the Arab Spring where cyber groups granted access to information to citizens.
However, despite its appeal and occasional successes, hacktivism cannot serve as a replacement for due process in a democratic society. Due process, with its foundations in legal standards and fair procedures, ensures that justice is administered impartially and equitably.
Legal and ethical boundaries
Although their aims can be well-intentioned, hacktivists often skirt around, or outright break laws designed to protect privacy, property, and security. These illegal activities often involve methods such as unauthorized access to systems and data breaches which violate laws and ethical standards.
Due process, on the other hand, abides by legal frameworks that ensure actions are lawful and rights are protected. When hacktivists bypass legal procedures, they undermine the rule of law, which is fundamental to democratic governance.
The actions of hacktivists can be ethically ambiguous. While some may see themselves as digital Robin Hoods, their methods can cause significant harm. For instance, the exposure of personal data during a hack can lead to identity theft, financial loss, and severe privacy violations for innocent individuals. These actions raise critical ethical questions about the means used to achieve perceived noble ends. By circumventing legal channels, hacktivists deny individuals the protections afforded by the law, such as the presumption of innocence and the right to a fair trial.
While most people will not lose sleep over this in instances of hacktivism targeted against Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, the law remains in place to protect everyone; Failing to adhere to it sets a dangerous precedent which may not be wielded with such noble intentions in the future.
Accountability and transparency
Due process ensures accountability and transparency through a transparent legal process where actions and decisions are subject to scrutiny and oversight. Judges, lawyers and law enforcement officials are held to consistent standards and their actions are under constant review. Hacktivism lacks these processes, often operating in secrecy and without accountability, leading to questions about their motives as well as the accuracy and truth behind the information they are releasing.
Potential for unintended consequences
Hacktivism attacks, however well intentioned, are often indiscriminate and can result in collateral damage such as disruption of services, harm to innocent parties, and escalation of conflicts. A hack intended to expose corporate malpractice might also compromise the personal data of employees and customers, leading to widespread harm.
The acts of hacktivists can also result in severe responses from governments and corporations who look to increase security following a cyberattack. Stricter regulations and cybersecurity measures can potentially reduce freedoms in the digital space.
Additionally, hacktivist actions can undermine legitimate efforts to address grievances through lawful means. When hacktivists release information obtained illegally, it can taint public perception and compromise investigations that rely on legally obtained evidence. This can impede the work of journalists, watchdog groups, and legal advocates who strive to expose wrongdoing through legitimate channels.
Due process aims to minimize such risks by providing a controlled environment for resolving disputes and addressing wrongdoings. This point emphasizes the potential hazards of hacktivism, contrasting it with the structured and balanced approach of due process designed to protect societal interests and prevent harm.
Looking forward
While hacktivism can shine a light on pressing issues and serve as a catalyst for change, it cannot replace due process in a democratic society. The legal and ethical boundaries that define due process ensure that justice is delivered fairly, protecting the rights of individuals while maintaining social order. Accountability and transparency are fundamental to the integrity of legal proceedings, providing a system of checks and balances that is absent in hacktivist operations.
Furthermore, the potential for unintended consequences highlights the risks associated with bypassing established legal channels. For a society committed to justice and the rule of law, due process remains indispensable, providing a structured and equitable framework for addressing grievances and resolving conflicts. Hacktivism, while impactful, lacks the legitimacy, accountability, and comprehensive justice that due process provides, underscoring the importance of adhering to legal principles in the pursuit of social change.
This article was produced as part of TechRadarPro's Expert Insights channel where we feature the best and brightest minds in the technology industry today. The views expressed here are those of the author and are not necessarily those of TechRadarPro or Future plc. If you are interested in contributing find out more here:https://www.techradar.com/news/submit-your-story-to-techradar-pro
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AMD has reportedly stopped production of the Radeon RX 7900 GRE This is reflected in the mid-range GPU vanishing rapidly off the shelves...
AMD has reportedly stopped production of the Radeon RX 7900 GRE
This is reflected in the mid-range GPU vanishing rapidly off the shelves
AMD is likely preparing the way for new RDNA 4 graphics cards
AMD is ditching the Radeon RX 7900 GRE from its current-gen GPU line-up, if fresh gossip from the grapevine is to be believed.
According to a report from Dutch tech site Tweakers, the RX 7900 GRE is now end-of-life, with AMD halting production of this graphics card.
Tweakers explains that it received a tip from a retail store that this was the case, with that outlet having heard from multiple suppliers that the 7900 GRE is effectively out of the mix.
Add plenty of salt, but if true, once existing stock has sold through, it’ll be curtains for this popular GPU. (The RX 7900 GRE is, in fact, still currently our top pick of the best graphics cards out there).
The site clarifies that AMD will continue to support the card with its software (driver updates), as would clearly be expected.
Tweakers further notes that AMD didn’t reply to requests to confirm that the RX 7900 GRE had been discontinued, but that’s not surprising, we wouldn’t expect Team Red to do so.
The report also observes that stock (presumably in The Netherlands) is dwindling, and the lack of availability backs up the notion that this RDNA 3 GPU – which was first introduced as an Asia-only model, before releasing globally – is on the way out.
(Image credit: Future / John Loeffler)
Analysis: Stock has indeed all but vanished
Hopping on over to Newegg in the US, we note that there’s only one model of RX 7900 GRE left on sale – the Acer BiFrost spin on the AMD GPU – with all the others now out of stock. Micro Center looks to be out of stock almost entirely, too, so this graphics card does indeed seem to be vanishing. Going by reports, stock has been dwindling over the past month or two.
Why might AMD be canning our favorite GPU of the moment? Well, it could be something to do with yields of the Navi 31 chip, meaning the silicon that doesn’t make the cut for higher-end RX 7900 models – which would be repurposed for the GRE – has simply run out.
Of course, production of Navi 31 is likely being scaled back anyway, as we have new RDNA 4 graphics cards rumored to be launching in Q1 of 2025. Those will supposedly include the RX 8800 XT (and more), with that GPU possibly making the RX 7900 GRE redundant in terms of its value proposition.
In short, this is another sign that a potent mid-range offering is due imminently – AMD will supposedly reveal its new RDNA 4 GPUs at CES 2025, with the boards launching soon after – and we can’t wait to see how those RX 8000 models shape up.
With the news that several large corporations such as Amazon are insisting their employees return to the office full time, it could be thought that the hybrid working revolution was merely a blip caused by lockdown necessity.
It remains to be seen whether this reversion will be successful or whether it will cause another wider adjustment as employees seek the employment that best reflects their needs.
Certainly, it should be seen as part of the continuum of an accelerating process of realignments as issues including trust, technology, productivity, creativity, family, finance and mental health shape the future of work.
Why hybrid working is still a necessity
Whether hybrid working remains a part of an organization's primary working strategy or not, it is critical that they retain the capability to do so to ensure business resiliency. The disruptions that impact physical office attendance will continue to exist and may well increase as the world becomes more unpredictable. From severe weather events to social unrest and global political shifts, there are a plethora of problems which will undermine attempts to confidently forecast mid to long-term plans.
The ability to flex as challenges and opportunities arise must be a fundamental consideration for all businesses. Developing an effective capability for remote and hybrid work enables employees to work from home or other locations if the office becomes inaccessible. Disregarding any other outcomes from recent years, this is a lesson that should not be forgotten.
Why technology is a key enabler for business resilience
Adopting technologies will be key for businesses to achieve the level of business resiliency required to support all working policies. For example, Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI) supports remote and hybrid working and can also be leveraged to improve other aspects of business resiliency, security, scalability and efficiency.
VDI situates PC or workstation resources on a server, rather than a laptop or desk-based device. This enables resources to sit alongside other server-based services in a central location, whether that be an office server room, a data center or the cloud. The virtual desktops are accessed with a low-spec device, often an inexpensive laptop or ‘thin client’, through an application or browser, over the network or internet. The experience for the end user remains the same so long as the service has been appropriately specified and configured, meaning employees can work from almost anywhere with an internet connection.
The key benefits of VDI
To ensure greater business protection, VDI (and its related infrastructure) should be located in a high-end data center to guarantee additional levels of resiliency. These would generally include dual and diverse power and connectivity, backup power generators, high levels of environmental management and physical and network security (such as DDOS protection). Such measures are important to reduce the risk of downtime, whether your employees are working from home or the office. Public and private cloud vendors will offer this level of service as a rule.
Centralizing all business resources also improves security. Data stays within a centrally managed network, rather than being located or replicated across multiple external devices, which exponentially increases vulnerability to attack. Employees only have inexpensive, dumb devices in hand, which are harder to hack and less problematic if stolen or damaged. Reducing the use of VPNs, replication and edge device data reduces the attack surface considerably.
Many VDI providers also offer scalability for organizations to flex their resources in line with their current needs. This type of dynamic resourcing is one of the big promises of cloud computing and is extremely attractive, especially when long-term forecasting is a challenge. There is a cost associated with such dynamism, but balancing this with less expensive, dedicated core resources allows for both reliability and agility.
Perhaps the most under-appreciated aspect of VDI is the efficiency that it can introduce to computer estate management. Administering through web-based control panels enables IT administrators to manage everything remotely, regardless of where the end user is based. Virtual desktops can be spun up or disabled in minutes, creating huge savings in the time that would otherwise be spent on physical device deployments and decommissioning. Resources can be reallocated across machines, users quickly reassigned and fresh images deployed rapidly, simplifying office moves and reorganizations.
Embracing the VDI opportunity for all working policies
There exists some understandable nervousness about hybrid working and VDI. For many organizations, this still seems a step too far from their long embedded and comfortable working practices and technologies. Alongside the recent push for a return to office working by some organizations, there has also been a parallel shift with other early adopters moving away from public cloud services; the latter primarily due to its expense and lack of ROI. Thankfully there are growing private cloud services that offer better and more accessible offerings, which ensure that the promise of cloud and VDI can still be realized. This will be important in the coming years which are sure to be full of new challenges and opportunities.
This article was produced as part of TechRadarPro's Expert Insights channel where we feature the best and brightest minds in the technology industry today. The views expressed here are those of the author and are not necessarily those of TechRadarPro or Future plc. If you are interested in contributing find out more here:https://www.techradar.com/news/submit-your-story-to-techradar-pro
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Laboratory for AI Security Research holds its first meeting The public-private partnership sees collaboration from academia, industry an...
Laboratory for AI Security Research holds its first meeting
The public-private partnership sees collaboration from academia, industry and government agencies
The lab will conduct research into AI vulnerabilities and safeguards
The UK’s Laboratory for AI Security Research is gradually taking shape, with delivery partners of the £8 million public-private partnership meeting for the first time.
The partnership seeks to unite industry, academia and HMG experts in the pursuit of supporting the development of safe AI systems.
The partnership includes Government departments, as well as experts and research teams from Plexal, University of Oxford, The Alan Turing Institute and Queen’s University Belfast.
National and international safe AI development
LASR will be dedicated to exploring vulnerabilities in AI tools and the wider cyber ecosystem, and will collaborate with other national and international organizations to enhance cyber defense and grow the economy by commercializing viable research outputs.
The lab will also support research into AI systems by supporting ten doctoral students from the University of Oxford in their research into AI and Machine Learning security. LASR is also expected to advance safeguards and explore how to detect inference within AI.
The partnership was initially announced at the NATO Cyber Defense Conference by Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster, Pat McFadden. As part of the announcement the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster said, “The lab will pull together world-class industry, academic and government experts to assess the impact of AI on our national security.”
“While AI can amplify existing cyber threats, it can also create better cyber defence tools and presents opportunities for intelligence agencies to collect, analyse, and produce more useful intelligence,” he added.
Speaking on the first meeting of the delivery partners, Saj Huq, CCO and Head of Innovation at Plexal, said, “AI adoption presents tremendous economic and societal opportunities, but we must be mindful of threats emerging. Through this world-class LASR partnership, Plexal will drive the development and commercialisation of breakthrough solutions to enhance resilience of public and private sectors, creating growth vectors for the UK’s tech ecosystem."
If your vacuum cleaner smells like burning, it's a sign something mechanical has gone wrong. This can be dangerous, so it's important not to just ignore it. In this article, we'll explain exactly what you should do if you smell burning when using your vacuum cleaner.
If you're not confident undertaking these steps yourself, you should enlist the help of a professional, book your vacuum in for a service, or contact your vacuum's manufacturer for advice.
1. Turn it off immediately
The first and most important step is to turn off the vacuum cleaner and unplug it from the power outlet. This prevents any further damage to the machine and eliminates the risk of electrical fire.
2. Check for blockages
A common cause of a burning smell is an obstructed air flow. So inspect the vacuum’s hose, brush roller and filter for blockages such as dust, hair or debris. Use a flashlight if necessary to look into all accessible areas. Blockages can cause the motor to overheat as it struggles to suck in air, leading to a burning odor.
Blockages in the hose, bin outlet or roller might cause the mechanism to jam(Image credit: Future)
3. Inspect the belt
A burning smell can occur if your vacuum cleaner's belt is worn out, misaligned or broken. That can lead it to rub against other components, or slip while the motor is still running. Access the vacuum’s brush roller and examine the belt for signs of wear, stretching or melting. If it looks damaged, replace it.
4. Examine the motor
If there’s no blockage and the belt is intact, the issue could be with the motor itself. A motor may overheat due to dust accumulation, electrical problems, or simply because it’s reaching the end of its lifespan. In which case, stop using the vacuum until you’ve had it serviced by a professional.
5. Call for help
If you're unsure about the source of the smell, or the vacuum continues to emit a burning odor after performing basic checks, it's best to contact a technician for repairs.
6. Buy a new vacuum
If none of that works, and your vacuum is on the older side, it might be time to invest in a new model. Our guides to the best vacuum cleaners or the best cordless vacuum cleaners specifically can help.
Garmin has issued a big software update for the Fenix and Enduro
Version 12.35 is rolling out with major bug fixes
Problems covered include missing tones for phone call alerts and silent alarms
If you've got one of the latest best Garmin watches, namely the Fenix 8, Fenix E or Enduro 3, then you won't want to miss the latest software update, which fixes a raft of issues on those devices.
The rollout for the 12.35 update started on December 13, and Garmin says the rollout is already at 50% and climbing. So what's new, and why should you jump on this update as soon as possible?
What's in the update?
(Image credit: Garmin)
Garmin has listed 11 fixes in the 12.35 update. Notably, there's a fix for "missing tones for phone call alerts" and "alarms being set to silent after migrating settings from Fenix 7," two problems which are just as annoying as they sound.
It also fixes potential crashes with the Map Manager on Garmin Connect Mobile, a Fishing timer status toggle, and more. No doubt the silent alarms and alerts are the headline here, but you can read the full release notes below:
Fixed missing tones for phone call alerts.
Fixed alarms being set to silent after migrating settings from Fenix 7.
Fixed CIQ app ability to close with Palm Cover.
Fixed CIQ watch face display issue after device reset.
Fixed event Countdown icon selection via touch.
Fixed Fishing timer status toggle.
Fixed Tides app time-out issue.
Fixed potential crash when opening Map Manager from Garmin Connect Mobile.
Fixed potential ConnectIQ application crash.
Restricted Workout Execution Score to only Running and Cycling workouts.
Updated sensor search to place sensors in Pairing Mode at the top of the search list.
You can download the update (once it has rolled out to your device) by using the Garmin Express app or the Garmin Connect app.
The Witcher 4 devs talk about Gwent in a recent interview
CDPR strongly hints that the card game will make a return
The game is expected to launch in 2026 at the very earliest
It's not even been a week since The Witcher 4's debut trailer and we're already asking the most pressing of questions: will it have Gwent?
Well, there's potentially great (or terrible, depending on how much you value your free time) news on that front. In an interview with Easy Allies (via PC Gamer), The Witcher 4's executive producer Gosia Mitręga and game director Sebastian Kalemba were asked about the return of the fiendishly addictive card game.
"We really love the game," replies Mitręga, "and we also really carefully, always listen to the community - which we love, and it's an amazing one." Mitręga adds: "But I don't think anyone will be disappointed."
Kalemba also speaks on the topic, stating that the card game is "a part of the experience, absolutely. We also love Gwent."
While not a rock-solid confirmation that Gwent is definitely coming back in The Witcher 4, it does seem more likely to make a comeback than not based on the developers' responses.
I never quite got around to finishing The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt, but whenever I played I always got sucked into playing hours of Gwent. Blissfully simple to understand yet providing plenty of room for depth and mastery, it was easily the best part of the previous game for me. I think the only other in-universe card game I've had close to this much fun with since is probably Vantage Master from Trails of Cold Steel 3, even if that's not quite as elegantly put together as Gwent is.
Otherwise, we still don't know much else about The Witcher 4 at present, which is understandable for a game that's still early on in development. We do know that Ciri has been recast for this game, with actress Ciara Berkeley voicing the protagonist in place of Jo Wyatt.
This has been confirmed by developer CD Projekt Red
The character will now be played by Ciara Berkeley
You might have already guessed it, but we now have official confirmation that Ciri has been recast in The Witcher 4.
Eagle-eared fans were quick to notice that Ciri sounds very different in the recent The Witcher 4 cinematic trailer, which debuted at The Game Awards 2024 last week. This led many to speculate online that the character has been recast.
You can check out the trailer for yourself below.
Now we know that this is definitely the case as, in a new statement given to gaming blog The Gamer, developer CD Projekt Red confirmed that Irish actor “Ciara Berkeley was cast as Ciri for The Witcher 4 Cinematic Reveal Trailer.”
“Ciara is a talented actress who impressed us with her enthusiasm and vocal acting skills,” the statement continues, “and in this trailer we believe she truly brought Ciri to life in a way that is both faithful to the character and exciting for fans of the series.”
Although it’s unclear from that statement, the website claims that a CD Projekt Red representative went on to confirm that Berkeley will be portraying the character in the full game.
Ciri will be the protagonist of The Witcher 4. The game has been described by its developer as “an upcoming single-player open-world RPG” that is “the beginning of a new saga, and a follow-up to one of the most acclaimed RPGs of all time”.
We also know that, as a younger and less experienced witcher than previous protagonist Geralt, players will have more freedom to shape her character than before. There is no official release window yet, nor are there any confirmed platforms at this time which might suggest that release is quite a ways off yet.
A few simple fridge organisation tweaks can make a huge difference not just to your cooking repertoire, but to your lifestyle too. They can help you make better and more interesting food choices, and they can also help reduce your stress levels when you're looking for something quick and easy to eat for you, your family or your friends.
It can also help the planet, and your pocket. That's because around 19% of all food in the world is thrown away uneaten. Across Europe, a significant portion of food waste comes from households—often because we buy too much or forget what’s tucked away in the fridge, hidden behind other items.
(Image credit: TCL)
Is it time for a fridge upgrade? For many kitchens the answer is an enthusiastic yes, because if your fridge is working efficiently, organised smartly and suits your specific needs it can reduce food waste, save you money and encourage you to eat better too. If opening your fridge is more of a pain than a pleasure, TCL have some really smart ideas for every kind of kitchen and every kind of cook.
The technology of tasty
When you choose a TCL fridge you're benefiting from the technology of tasty: cutting-edge tech that doesn't just keep your cucumbers cool but can also keep food fresher for longer and cut down on food waste too.
(Image credit: TCL)
Say hello to the TCL Free Built-In refrigerator. Designed with a 90° opening door and stable recessed hinges, ensuring easy access even when positioned against a wall. TCL's innovative bottom heat dissipation system minimises the required side clearance from 10 cm to just 1 cm by enabling heat exchange at the base. Furthermore, the 4th generation microporous foaming agent reduces the insulation layer's thickness by 10%, maximising internal storage capacity.
(Image credit: TCL)
The TCL Free Built-In refrigerator seamlessly combines style and functionality with an XL capacity, perfect for busy families and cooking enthusiasts. Its spacious design keeps fresh food within easy reach, while customizable compartments adapt effortlessly to your grocery needs, making organization simple. The large-capacity drawer for easy access to ingredients of all sizes. Its smooth slide-out design ensures clear visibility, keeping everything from small spices to large items neatly stored and easily accessible.
Whether hosting a gathering or managing everyday essentials, this fridge’s smart storage solutions keep your kitchen organized and your food fresh, making life more efficient and enjoyable.
(Image credit: TCL)
There are two key features that do that in the TCL Free Built-In refrigerator: T-Fresh, and T-Temp. Now in its fourth generation, T-Fresh is industry-leading sterilisation that delivers comprehensive protection, preventing the formulation of 99.99%* of the bacteria that can make your food lose its freshness and eliminating unwanted odours too.
T-Temp is just as useful. It enables you to easily adjust the temperature for different kinds of food, with adjustable temperature settings of -3°C, -1°C, and 4°C, ensuring optimal storage conditions for a variety of foods.
While T-Fresh and T-Temp are the stars here, there's another clever bit of tech inside TCL's fridges: Pure Air. That's a smart air circulation system that effectively maintains a fresh and odour-free environment within your freezer.
The Cleverest Combi
The TCL Combi Fridge is designed to simplify and improve your every day. With flexible storage options including a bottle rack and shelf, flexible balcony and impressively large storage space, the Combi Fridge adapts effortlessly to your specific needs whether you're storing large items or want access to frequently used ingredients – or both.
(Image credit: TCL)
Like its Built-In sibling, the TCL Combi Fridge has TCL's clever T-Temp technology to keep your food fresher for longer by regulating temperature and humidity levels. And it can help with your utility bills too thanks to its environmentally friendly inverter technology, which makes it the smart choice for eco-conscious homes. And with a 10-year warranty** on its compressor, it delivers peace of mind too.
How can TCL help bring more order to your kitchen?
(Image credit: TCL)
If your existing fridge seems to be taking up loads of room without delivering lots of storage space inside it, the TCL Free Built-In refrigerator series will be a breath of air that's as fresh as the food inside it. That's because the Free Built-In Fridge Series is a clever addition to any kitchen. They're designed to fit seamlessly into any space, enhancing your kitchen's aesthetic appeal while maximising space efficiency too. They're made to suit your specific kitchen, and that means they can go wherever suits you: against the wall, next to a cabinet or freestanding.
The TCL Free Built-In refrigerator features a sleek, integrated design that seamlessly fits into your cabinetry, elevating your kitchen's aesthetic while optimising space efficiency. Its flush, built-in appearance creates a cohesive and clutter-free look that’s both functional and stylish. Designed for versatility, the Free Built-In design adapts effortlessly to various kitchen layouts—whether placed against a wall, beside a cabinet, freestanding, or fully integrated.
That's not all. The fridge compartments are customisable, enabling you to keep everything organised and making it all incredibly easy to access. And the brilliant large-capacity drawer can accommodate every kind of ingredient while making it super-easy to find everything from small spices to giant joints.
The customizable design of TCL's Free Built-In refrigerator offers unmatched convenience and practicality. Its ample capacity and flexible compartments prevent the frustration of cramming a large shop into a small space, making it easier to see and access everything—no more forgotten ingredients lurking at the back. This same thoughtful design extends to the TCL Combi Fridge, which features customizable compartments, reversible glass shelves, versatile racking, and flexible door balconies, making organization effortless. Plus, its Humidity Side Crisper keeps produce crisp and fresh, ensuring your lettuce stays crunchy and ready to enjoy.
(Image credit: TCL)
Whether you fancy the freestanding Combi Fridge or would prefer the flexibility of the TCL Free Built-In refrigerator series, TCL delivers exceptional cooling, massive storage space and all kinds of clever features to make every day easier. Click here to find out more about the technology of tasty.
* 99.99% from BV report. Tested bacteria represented were Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli.
***The inverter compressor's 10 years warranty need to be registered on TCL official website within 30 days of purchase.
Product models, capacities, and appearances are subject to the actual market availability in each region. For specific details, please refer to local retailers or the official website.
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