• Productivity and AI-induced cost reductions are actually dropping
• Most businesses plan to continue spending on AI regardless
• Only 35% have full visibility into costs, reporting lower ROI

Despite ongoing deployment, many organizations are apparently still struggling to achieve ROI from AI, with new KPMG data revealing growing accountability, governance and workforce pressures.

The report found productivity gains actually fell from 42% to 35%, with decision making speed also dropping from 41% to 36%. Even costs were challenged, with cost reductions slightly falling from 31% to 29%.

But planned AI spending data indicates a near-identical value compared with the quarter before, implying companies could be investing blindly without detailed strategies spelling out where they would get the most returns.

AI ROI is still a challenge, years later

Backing that optimism, four in five (79%) say AI would remain a top investment priority even if a recession occurred, with a similar number (78%) confident they can future-proof their AI strategies accordingly.

Costs are clearly being scrutinized, though, with 22% now factoring in lower-cost AI models (compared with 15% previously). Nearly half (49%) have even delayed, paused or shrunk their AI strategies over cost concerns.

"AI is now as much a financial management priority as it is a technology one," Global Head of Advisory Rob Fisher summarized.

Clearly, model capabilities are no longer driving AI investments as companies start to look more closely at how much they're paying for services and the promised returns. And with only one in three (35%) having full visibility into AI operating costs currently, much work needs to be done here.

The report even argues that those with full AI cost visibility are 5x more likely to report ROI. "We’re seeing a clear divide between organizations with leadership accountability at the top and those without," Global Head of AI and Digital Innovation Steve Chase commented.

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It’s no longer a question of if – only when. The promise of humanoid robotics is finally crystallizing into a commercial reality.

This new era will create a sector with the heft to rival megaliths like automotive and computing.

But we’re not there yet, and though large and well-known manufacturers are investing billions in development, with some clear leaders, the robots themselves remain in adolescent stage.

My advice? Treat them like any other adolescents and don’t rush them into adulthood before they’re ready. Take a crawl walk run approach to innovation, build capability layer by layer, and let maturity emerge from momentum. This is the fastest way to win the race to commercial deployment and value.

Development teams are making progress by the day, stimulated and inspired by the obvious appeal of a robot shaped like a human, operating deftly and effectively in any environment designed for people, using existing tools and infrastructure. But we’re clear on the obstacles, and equally clear with business leaders on the need to understand the technical, practical, regulatory and social factors that stand between them and the market.

That said, there’s no doubt in my mind that humanoid robotics represents not just a new way to win – but a way to win big. Companies that are first to crack the challenges I’m about to describe will seize powerful advantages. They’ll define industry standards, accumulate proprietary data and build customer relationships that late entrants can’t hope to replicate.

Early deployment – even for tasks like packing boxes – generates real-world learning that accelerates improvement.

The human-shaped challenge

The formidable gap between impressive (if carefully pre-choreographed) demonstration videos and actual deployment is marked with several key technical challenges, not least the physics of the human form. Balance and locomotion are among the hardest problems in robotics. We walk with a complex, energy-efficient gait that takes years to learn. Replicating for a robot requires real-time processing of sensor data, continuous adjustment to shifting weight and the ability to recover from unexpected disturbances.

Reinforcement learning and improved actuators have produced robots that can walk, run, and even perform parkour in controlled settings. But real-world environments are a chaotic mess of uneven floors, unexpected obstacles and slippery surfaces – and current systems still struggle here.

Dexterity and manipulation are equally daunting. Human hands have 27 degrees of freedom and extraordinary tactile sensitivity. Once learned, we can thread a needle, crack an egg, or catch a ball without conscious thought. Robotic hands have improved substantially, but fine motor control, delicate force application and adaptive grip remain limited. Tasks that seem trivial to us are extraordinarily difficult for machines.

Our research notes the promise of perfecting fine manipulation as physical AI teams progresses from lab proof-of-concept to stable pick-and-place cycles with real hardware. It’s tough, because it’s all about building new capabilities from scratch. But with a growing confidence in areas like fine manipulation, human-robot interaction and whole-body control, we’re moving ever closer to significant breakthroughs.

A new way to look at perception

Perception and decision-making represent further technical hurdles. Robots must interpret cluttered, dynamic environments in real time, distinguishing between a crumpled napkin and a spilled hazard, recognizing when a human is about to cross their path, and making split-second decisions about how to respond. Current AI can handle many of these tasks in isolation, but integrating them into a coherent, reliable whole is a work in progress.

As these technical problems are solved, economic viability will come increasingly into focus. While some humanoids are advertised with a cost of a few thousand dollars, these are essentially expensive toys rather than effective workers. Top-of-the-range humanoid robots cost hundreds of thousands of dollars, far more than what most businesses can justify for tasks that humans perform adequately.

Manufacturing at scale could bring prices down, but the path to a $20,000 or $30,000 unit that could potentially result in productivity and cost efficiency gains remains uncertain. Robot-as-a-Service financing models will enable early up-take but the underlying cost challenge will remain a blocker to mass adoption.

Getting closer to real-world usefulness

Personally, I’m optimistic about overcoming the remaining challenges. There is work to be done on operational reliability (we’re not yet there with machines that operate autonomously for extended periods without much intervention); legal frameworks; physical safety (regulatory guidelines are in their infancy); and even public perception (resistance to automation has derailed past initiatives.)

The key is to stay focused on the end game. With the remaining hurdles diminishing, the direction of travel is irresistible. Every small breakthrough – like that box packing example I mentioned earlier – brings us closer to real-world usefulness and every early deployment teaches us something we can’t learn in the lab. Build steadily, crawl-walk-run, and the rewards await the ambitious first movers.

70+ of the best AI tools rated and ranked.

This article was produced as part of TechRadar Pro Perspectives, our channel to feature the best and brightest minds in the technology industry today.

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Genki Attack Vector: Review

The Attack Vector is a basic set of covers and grips for your Switch 2 and Joy-Cons, designed to protect your console and improve ergonomics in handheld mode.

The plastic covers for the console and both Joy-Cons are quite plain, with a totally black finish and no extra flourishes. They’re reasonably thick and durable, but also light.

(Image credit: Future)

The back cover for the console is easy enough to snap on. It should offer sufficient protection from scratches and the like, and I appreciated the fact that the inside has a small patch of rubber, which makes the fit more snug.

Like the best Nintendo Switch 2 accessories, the Attack Vector doesn’t interfere with the console’s stand, ports or buttons, thanks to the various cutaways. They’re still quite easy to use, although the deep recess that’s created around the power and volume buttons means you may have to press these more with your fingernail than your fingertip. What’s more, the Switch 2 still fits in the dock with the cover attached; in fact, the fit is actually better, since it prevents it from wobbling at all.

(Image credit: Future)

Snapping on the Joy-Con covers is a little trickier, but it’s easier if you hold the detach button on each Joy-Con as you slide them on. These also have a small rubber backing on the inside for a more secure fit.

The Attack Vector comes with three sets of grips to attach to the back of these covers, of varying shapes and sizes. These have a solid build quality and a nice finish, with a rubber texture that feels comfortable, grippy, and hardwearing.

(Image credit: Future)

Attaching these grips is a little difficult at first. You have to line up the grooves and slide them on blindly, which can result in numerous failed attempts. However, I soon got the technique down and managed to attach them without issue thereafter. Once attached, they’re very stable; at no point did they come loose while I used them.

The two larger grip sets are called the Anchor and Balance. I found the latter set very comfortable, as the sides of the grips fitted the center of my palms naturally as I played.

(Image credit: Future)

The Anchor grips are shorter and feature ergonomic indentations at the bottom. I didn’t find these as comfortable or as secure, since only my last two fingers fit in these indentations. I suspect they’re designed for smaller hands than mine. Ultimately, though, both grips make handheld mode more comfortable and secure, especially when holding the Switch 2 upright, as you have something more substantial to hold on to.

There is a problem with these grips, though. Their weight and leverage mean that the Joy-Cons can rock back and forth slightly in the console, which is a little disconcerting. This rocking is minimal under normal use, and it never resulted in the Joy-Cons disconnecting from my Switch 2 during testing, but I do worry that eventually their hold in the console might loosen.

(Image credit: Future)

No such issue is created by the Feather grips, though. These are the smallest set and only cover the middle section of each Joy-Con. Unlike the other grips, they barely protrude outwards, offering a much more subtle feel. But given the stock Joy-Cons’ absence of a grippy surface or an ergonomic shape, I was still pleased with the limited support they provided. What’s more, I found them ideal when the Joy-Cons were detached from the console, since, unlike the other sets, they offer enough bulk to get a secure grip without impeding the reach of my thumbs to the controls.

At £40, the Attack Vector isn’t exactly cheap. However, the covers provide a good fit and basic protection for your console and Joy-Cons. Meanwhile, the comfortable grips for all types of hands are great if you play in handheld mode often, especially in a more upright position.

(Image credit: Future)

Genki Attack Vector review: Price & availability

The Genki Attack Vector costs £39.99 and is available now in black only. This isn’t particularly cheap for a case and grip combination. But the quality of the product, as well as the inclusion of three different types of grips, may be worth it to those who take their handheld gaming seriously.

Should I buy the Genki Attack Vector?

Buy it if…

You’ll be using handheld mode a lot
The grips offer a secure and satisfying way to use your Switch 2 in handheld mode, and the three different kinds should ensure you’ll get the right fit.

You want to keep the covers and grips on at all times
The console cover is designed to fit in Switch 2’s dock, and it actually prevents it from wobbling around in there, too.

Don't buy it if…

You want to improve the Switch 2’s looks
The utilitarian nature of the Attack Vector means if offers no flair to help personalize the style of your console.

You want ultimate Joy-Con stability
The larger grips tend to cause the Joy-Cons to wobble slightly, which might lead to problems for more animated players.

Genki Attack Vector review: Also consider

Genki Dual Wield Nintendo Switch 2 Charging Station
The Dual Wield actually makes a good companion to the Attack Vector, since you can attach the Joy-Cons to the Dual Wield grip while keeping the Attack Vector’s grips in place. What’s more, this improves the ergonomics of the Dual Wield, which was one of the main weaknesses I identified when I reviewed it. And when your session is over, you can simply dock your Joy-Cons in the charging station. There are two sets of grips for two sets of Joy-Cons and two positions on the charging station. Read our full Genki Dual Wield Nintendo Switch 2 Charging Station review.

(Image credit: Future)

How I tested the Genki Attack Vector

I used the Genki Attack Vector for several days, playing a variety of games in handheld mode, including Super Mario Bros. Wonder and The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom. I made sure to try out all three grip types. I also tested the grips with the Joy-Cons detached from the console.

I've been gaming for decades, and have used a variety of systems and controllers in that time, including various handheld systems. I've also reviewed other Switch 2 accessories and controllers before.

• Read TechRadar’s reviews guarantee
• First reviewed: June 2026

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Snakebyte Ergo Grip S2 review

The Snakebyte Ergo Grip 2 is a basic grip for the Switch 2’s Joy-Cons, although it has a few tricks up its sleeve.

Its design is very much a case of function over form. There’s no RGB lighting, and the all-black colorway leaves no room for levity. At least it's simple and unfussy, consisting merely of a central bar and two grip handles on either side. These handles are reasonably long but quite thin compared to more traditional controllers.

(Image credit: Future)

The build quality isn’t particularly great, it has to be said. There’s quite a bit of flex to the whole unit, although it's solid enough and the plastic feels smooth in the hand. But it’s certainly not going to challenge the best Nintendo Switch 2 controllers on this front.

There’s a small switch underneath the Ergo Grip 2 to release the central bar from the bottom of the pad, allowing it to pivot upwards and out of the way of the grip handles so you can insert the Joy-Cons. This seems a little gimmicky, and what’s more, it’s not strictly necessary: by inserting my Joy-Cons at an angle, I managed to get around the handles while the center was locked down.

I think it would’ve been simpler to engineer a solution where the handles didn’t get in the way at all, rather than have a rotating mechanism. I’m also mildly concerned about the button that locks it down. I noticed a small amount of play while it’s locked down, which could spell failure further down the line.

(Image credit: Future)

Happily, the fit for the Joy-Cons is more secure. They slot into the Ergo Grip 2 just as well as they do into the Switch 2 itself. The hold feels strong, and the handles effectively partially cover their outsides, which prevents them from being prised out easily.

In action, it’s quite comfortable. The Joy-Cons sit fairly close together, but not so close as to cause issues. However, the grip handles took me a little while to get used to. At first, I had to slide my hands upwards to reach the Joy-Cons' bumpers when playing games such as Super Mario Bros. Wonder. However, I discovered that I could slot my last two fingers into the handles’ small indents for better purchase, which helped alleviate this problem somewhat.

But there are a few more ergonomic issues with the Ergo Grip 2. The bottom parts of the grips aren’t particularly long, and what’s more, they’re completely vertical, rather than angling outwards. This meant that they didn’t sit in the palms of my hands as well as more traditional gamepads, leading to a less secure feeling of grip.

(Image credit: Future)

This verticality extends to the orientation of the Joy-Cons. They don’t angle outwards at the bottom, which is part of the reason why reaching the bumpers can be a struggle. Other grips, such as the Genki Dual Wield, create such an angle, which feels like a more natural way to use the Joy-Cons.

The Ergo Grip 2 features a USB-C port for charging while you play. There are LEDs on top to indicate charging status, although these are basic, merely lighting up red while charging and green once complete.

At 200cm, the included USB-C cable is quite long, but it's made from rubber. This contrasts with the best Nintendo Switch 2 accessories, including other controllers and grips, that come with braided cables for better flexibility. Thankfully, the cable is quite light, so I didn’t feel much resistance while playing, and I wasn’t worried about the cable disconnecting. However, it’s quite hard to unbunch, meaning it fails to maximize its entire length.

At less than £20, though, such shortcomings are easier to swallow. If all you’re after is a cheap way to securely hold your Joy-Con 2 controllers and want to play and charge at the same time, you could do worse than the Ergo Grip 2.

Snakebyte Ergo Grip S2 review: Price and availability

(Image credit: Future)

The Ergo Grip 2 can be ordered from Snakebyte’s website for €19.99, which is about £17. However, we have seen it for less than this at other retailers. This is a fair price for a Joy-Con 2 grip, especially one that features charge-and-play.

However, there are Switch 2 accessories that are arguably better value for money, including others from Snakebyte. Its Starter Kit S2, for instance, includes Joy-Con 2 grips, a case, wired earbuds, joystick caps, and a screen protector — all for about the same price as the Ergo Grip 2.

Should I buy the Snakebyte Ergo Grip S2?

Buy it if…

You want your Joy-Cons secured
The design of the Ergo Grip 2 means that your Joy-Cons are locked in place with nowhere to go.

You want to play and charge at the same time
Thanks to the USB-C port and cable, you can charge the Ergo Grip 2 as you play.

Don't buy it if…

You want formidable build quality
The release button for the pivot mechanism doesn’t feel particularly solid, which is a slight concern.

You want the best ergonomics
The upright nature of the Ergo Grip 2 means you don’t get the same ergonomics of typical gamepads.

Snakebyte Ergo Grip S2 review: Also consider

Genki Dual Wield Nintendo Switch 2 charging station
This accessory features two grips for two sets of Joy-Con 2s, as well as a charging station for them. The triangular shape of the grips creates a more natural playing angle for your Joy-Cons, although the completely flat surface of the grip and its small central hole hamper ergonomics somewhat. Still, for the price, the Dual Wield is a decent value.

Read our full review Genki Dual Wield Nintendo Switch 2 charging station review

How I tested the Snakebyte Ergo Grip S2

(Image credit: Future)

I tested the Ergo Grip 2 for several days. I played various games with it attached to my Joy-Cons, including Super Mario Bros. Wonder and Super Mario 3D All-Stars. I attached and detached my Joy-Cons several times to test the fit and pivot mechanism of the grip.

I’ve been gaming for decades and have used many systems and controllers in that time. I’ve also reviewed other Switch 2 grips, as well as numerous controllers for the Switch, PC, Xbox, and mobile.

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• First reviewed: June 2026

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The best Bluetooth speakers get better every year: we get improved batteries to supply even more sonic stamina, wider connectivity, and a dizzying range of designs. The market is so competitive that 'good enough' just isn't good enough to stand out any more, and that means the speakers launched and launching in 2026 are often exceptional.

The first six months of 2026 have been great for audio fans, with a range of very good portable speakers to cover pretty much every niche. There are ridiculously loud party speakers that'll annoy your neighbors, tiny portables that are perfect for podcasts, small speakers that are ideal for when you're showering and go-anywhere, play-anything portables for the great outdoors. And we've tested a ton of them with in-depth reviews.

So I've picked out the five top Bluetooth speakers we've review so far in 2026, now that we're half-way through the year. The products I've picked here aren't the only Bluetooth speakers launched in 2026 by any means — for example, there was IKEA's 10-dollar Kallsup speaker, which is so cheap you can buy stacks of them to make a musical pyramid, which we also tried. I also haven't featured stationary wireless speakers that may include Bluetooth, but tend to be more focused on Wi-Fi — we're all about the portable options here.

I've picked my top five based on our in-depth testing, their price tags and how well I think they'll fit into most people's lives.

5. Tribit Stormbox Micro 3

• List price of $64.99 / £62.99 (about AU$130)
• Released in April 2026
• Rating: 4.5 / 5

(Image credit: Future)

The budget Bluetooth sector is absolutely jam-packed with affordable options, but it's hard to beat the Tribit Stormbox Micro 3: it's super-cheap even at full price, and it's frequently discounted from the launch price of $64.99 / £62.99 (about AU$130).

With 24 hours of battery life, a solid build and IP68 dust and water resistance it's a great go-anywhere speaker, and while its single 48mm driver is small, it's surprisingly punchy, with impressive bass for such a compact design. We really like the sound the Micro 3 delivers: it's a good all-rounder for music, podcasts and audiobooks.

Read our Tribit Stormbox Micro 3 review

4. Marshall Bromley 450

• List price of $799.99 / £549.99 / AU$1,079
• Available from March 31, 2026
• Rating: 4 / 5

(Image credit: Future)

The Marshall Bromley 450 is the marginally more sensible member of the Bromley party speaker range: it's considerably cheaper than its very expensive sibling, but still puts out a whopping 400W of Class D amplification — and it can keep playing for over 40 hours, albeit not at full volume. With a list price of $799.99 / £549.00 / AU$1,079 it's still quite expensive, but you're getting a lot of bang for your buck.

In our Marshall Bromley 450 review, we praised its 360-degree audio and noted that you can pair it with a second Bromley over Auracast if 400W isn't shaking the building enough. And as someone who's carried many a Marshall amp up and down venue stairs, I love that it echoes the design of classic Marshall amps and cabinets. Like most of my favorite rock bands it's a little bit ridiculous and enormously entertaining.

Read our Marshall Bromley 450 review

3. JBL Go 5

• List price of $54.95 / £39.99 (about AU$75)
• Released in April 2026
• Rating: 5 / 5

(Image credit: Future)

JBL is one of the best-known brands in the Bluetooth speaker space, and it consistently delivers very impressive products with equally impressive prices. Last year's JBL Flip 7 and JBL Charge 6 are firm favorites of ours, and this year JBL has updated its cute JBL Go ultraportable.

We gave this new model the full five stars in our JBL Go 5 review, calling it "the best tiny Bluetooth speaker" — while 4.8W output means it's hardly a party speaker, it delivers impressive sound from its tiny case along with attractive edge lighting and a durable, waterproof design. It's one of the best-sounding small speakers we've ever tested.

Read our JBL Go 5 review

2. Sonos Play

• List price of $299 / £299 / AU$499
• Released on March 31st, 2026
• Rating: 4.5 / 5

(Image credit: Future)

So far we've been focused on Bluetooth-only speakers, but now let's turn to a portable option that can also be used in multi-room setups over Wi-Fi. Sonos is the big brand in that space, and the Sonos Play is a superb new addition to the Sonos range whether you want it to fly solo, take it on your travels, or use it as part of a wider Sonos setup.

It's a little more expensive than rivals, but the Sonos Play delivers powerful and well-rounded audio, has superb streaming support and connectivity including Hi-Res Audio over Wi-Fi, and its USB-C port can be used as an audio input: you can get an adapter that enables you to connect a turntable or other wired audio source.

It delivers up to 24 hours of battery life and sits on a good-looking charging cradle when you don't need to take it places, which means you can grab and go in an instant without unplugging.

Read our Sonos Play review

1. JBL Xtreme 5

• List price of $399.95 / £329.99 (about AU$560)
• Launched in April 2026
• Rating: 5 / 5

(Image credit: Future)

This beast makes the JBL Go 5 look like it was made for a Lego character. The rugged, chunky and very loud JBL Xtreme 5 is a bit of a beast, delivering mesmerizing bass from its rather hefty frame. It's marginally bigger than its predecessor, but the sound is bigger too.

As we said in our review, "this is how you do an upgrade. This model has more power, more striking sound, lighting for added beauty points, and an even more durable build than last time out." It's also solidly built, reminiscent of the old Nokia phones where if you dropped them, you were more likely to break the ground than your phone.

Dustproof, waterproof and with a long-lasting battery keeping the party going for up to 28 hours, the JBL Xtreme 5 is exceptional — but if it's just a little too heavyweight for you, the 2025 JBL Charge 6 is very good too.

Read our JBL Extreme 5 review

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EZVIZ EP4: one-minute review

Fitting a video doorbell or security camera is often a non-starter if you rent or live in an apartment where drilling into the walls isn’t allowed. That’s where the EZVIZ EP4 Wire-Free Peephole Door Viewer comes in — by fitting through your front door’s existing peephole, it brings almost everything you’d get from a full video doorbell, without any damage that could upset your landlord.

The physical setup is incredibly easy and took me just 10 minutes to complete. After you’ve unscrewed the old peephole, the EP4 securely clamps onto the door without a power tool in sight.

Once it’s running, the footage captured is very clear, giving you a detailed look at anyone outside. The companion app is simple to use and intuitively designed, making it effortless to check live feeds, use the two-way talk feature, or adjust security settings.

When it comes to saving video footage, EZVIZ doesn’t lock you into a subscription plan like some rivals. While the company includes a free trial of its cloud subscription service, you aren’t forced to pay for it afterwards. If you want to skip the recurring fees, you can opt to install a local microSD card (up to 512GB) to store clips locally.

However, the EP4’s AI facial recognition has a notable quirk. Although it's smart enough to identify who is at your door, there’s currently no way to stop the app from sending you notifications when it spots someone you know — including you. Because you can’t tell the camera to ignore certain individuals, you’ll be alerted every time you walk through your own front door.

EZVIZ EP4: price and availability

• List price £229.99 (about $300 / AU$440)
• Available in the UK, but not the US or Australia
• No subscription necessary if you use a microSD card

The EZVIZ EP4 Wire-Free Peephole Door Viewer is available in the UK for £229.99 (about $300 / AU$440), but I’ve seen it discounted to as little as £159.99 during sales events. It’s not yet available in the US and Australia at the time of writing, but older models are, so hopefully the EP4 will launch more widely soon.

If you want to store your videos at home subscription-free, you’ll also need a microSD card (up to 512GB), so factor this into the cost. If you’d prefer to store footage in the cloud, you’ll want an EZVIZ CloudPlay subscription. After a 30-day free trial, there are three plans to choose from:

Plan Type	Cameras supported	Unlimited cloud storage	7-day event-based video history	30-day event-based video history
Individual plan	1	Yes	Monthly: $3.99 (about £3, AU$6) Yearly: $39.99 (about £30, AU$58)	Monthly: $6.99 (about £5.30, AU$10) Yearly: $69.99 (about £53, AU$100)
Home plan	4	Yes	Monthly: $5.99 (about £4.60, AU$8.70) Yearly: $59.99 (about £46, AU$87)	Monthly: $10.99 (about £8.40, AU$16) Yearly: $109.99 (about £84, AU$160)
Business plan	10	Yes	Monthly: $12.99 (about £9.90, AU$19) Yearly: $129.99 (about £99, AU$190)	Monthly: $27.99 (about £21, AU$41) Yearly: $279.99 (about £210, AU$410)

• Value score: 4.5/5

EZVIZ EP4: design

• Discreet external camera
• Very simple to fit without damaging door
• Internal screen projects an inch into the room
• Visitors might not spot the doorbell button

The EP4 has two main parts: the camera, which has a cable that threads through the peephole in your door, and a screen that sits on the inside. The camera has a doorbell button below the lens (though visitors might not notice it because it's at an unusual level), a motion sensor at the top, and a speaker and microphone on the side.

It’s compatible with doors between 1.4 x 4.1 inches / 35 x 105mm thick, with a peephole diameter between 0.6 inches and 2 inches / 14mm and 50mm. That’s a wide range, and should be fine for the vast majority of internal and external doors, but it’s worth measuring yours first just to be sure. You can remove the peephole from your door by simply unscrewing it, though if it’s particularly tight, you might need to use a pair of pliers to get it started.

The camera unit threads through an existing peephole and is compatible with most doorsFuture

I recommend using a spirit level to get the camera straight before securing it in placeFuture

The screws connect the backplate to the camera, clamping them to your door without damaging itFuture

To fit the EP4, start by measuring the thickness of your door using the card template provided, and choose the appropriate pair of screws, indicated by the instruction manual. These will be used to clamp the EP4 onto your door. Peel the paper off the 3M tape on the back of the camera unit, position it on the outside of your door (I recommend using a spirit level to get it straight), thread the screws and data cable through the peephole (you can roll a piece of paper around them to avoid snagging), and press down to secure it.

Then tighten the screws a little, slide the mounting plate for the screen into place, tighten the screws the rest of the way, plug in the data cable, and slide the screen into place. The whole process takes no longer than 10 minutes, and when you want to remove it, there’ll be no damage to your door.

The external camera is unobtrusive, and visitors might not realize it's also a doorbellFuture

The internal display gives a clear view of the area beyond your front door, but you'll get a better picture in the appFuture

The screen stands about an inch proud of your doorFuture

When you move, just unscrew the EP4 and screw the original peephole back in placeFuture

It’s a clever design, and the exterior camera is discreet (it comes with stickers to put on your door if you want to warn visitors they are being recorded), but it’s worth being aware that the interior screen stands about an inch proud of the door, so you’ll need to be very careful if it opens opposite a wall.

You can detach the screen unit to charge it via a microUSB cable (supplied with the EP4) and insert a memory card. It’s a shame there’s no hot-swappable battery — you can’t use the camera and doorbell while the unit is charging — but battery life is quite respectable. EZVIZ suggests up to 120 days, though this will depend on how many times the camera is triggered and how often you use the internal screen to see what’s happening outside.

• Design score: 4.5/5

EZVIZ EP4: performance

The EP4 is an ingenious home security device that provides many of the advantages of a video doorbell or home security camera without needing to make permanent changes to your property. It’s a great pick for an apartment, with excellent picture quality and smart notifications, though it’s worth being aware of a few drawbacks — particularly when it comes to person recognition.

The resolution of the internal screen is fine, and you’ll immediately benefit from a field of view that’s much wider than your original peephole, but it doesn’t do justice to the EP4’s 4K camera. To see footage in its full 4K glory, you’ll need to use the Ezvizlife app, which also gives you access to all the EP4’s settings, as well as event history, saved recordings, call logs, two-way talk, and static photos.

The app's welcome screen gives you quick access to video logs and live viewFuture

The camera records 10-second clips when triggered, which are kept in your video logsFuture

You can browse recordings at any time, scrub through video, capture stills, and export video filesFuture

Footage in the Ezvizlife app is incredibly sharp, and there’s very little lag between events happening outside and the camera starting to record. You’ll notice a delay when using two-way talk, but it’s only a couple of seconds, and no worse than some much higher-end video doorbells we’ve tested here at TechRadar.

When a visitor uses the doorbell, you'll receive an incoming-call-style notification that you can choose to reject or answer to start two-way talk. It's also possible to start two-way talk at any time through the app if you can see someone at the door.

Want to keep your identity private? The app gives you two options: ‘Uncle Tone’, which deepens your voice, and ‘Clown Tone’, which makes it high and squeaky, both of which work well and will effectively disguise your voice if you don’t want to be recognized. Personally, I would prefer an option that doesn’t sound quite so cartoonish, but they’re a welcome feature nonetheless.

I found the fisheye-correction option particularly useful during my testing, along with the AI person-shape recognition, which correctly identifies subjects even when they’re wheeling a bike or carrying a large object that might obscure their body shape.

When a person is detected, the camera will send a notification to the EZVIZ app, and start recording a 10-second video clip, which will be saved on an SD card or in the cloud, depending on which storage option you’ve chosen. You can also choose to watch through the camera live at any time, trigger a recording, or capture a still image.

Person identification works even when an individual's outline is obscured by large objectsFuture

You can see a live view through the app or internal screen any timeFuture

Check your video logs in the app, export videos, and capture still imagesFuture

You can also export videos from your logs at any time, which is very useful if you're unfortunate enough to need them as evidence for the police.

EZVIZ is a Chinese company, and although the app has been localized quite well, some parts are still confusing. For example, if you attempt to toggle a feature that’s still in beta, you will see a notification reading: “The current status of this detection is closed. Please enable the corresponding algorithm in the intelligent detection before enabling this function”.

For me, the biggest drawback — and the one that holds the EP4 back from a better score — is the implementation of facial recognition. In an ideal world, you wouldn’t receive a notification when your own face is detected, and you could disable alerts for other members of your household as well, so you’re only alerted when a stranger arrives. Unfortunately, that’s not an option with the EP4, which notified me that “Cat appeared” each time I arrived home from work.

You can add a person to 'Familiar Faces' using an existing photo, or take a new oneFuture

Photos should be well-lit and taken from the frontFuture

Adding yourself to 'Familiar faces' doesn't mean that the app will 'ignore' you Future

Facial recognition works very well, and even identifies a person wearing a cycle helmet and sunglasses, but at the moment, the implementation seems back-to-front. In fairness, though, the feature is still in beta, so perhaps the developers at EZVIZ will make that change before its full launch. For now, it's a real problem.

• Performance score: 3.5/5

Should you buy the EZVIZ EP4?

EZVIZ EP4 score card

Attribute	Notes	Score
Value	Very reasonably priced, particularly during sales, though you'll need an SD card too.	4.5/5
Design	Ingenious design that's great for renters, though screen projects quite far into the room and isn't very high-res.	4/5
Performance	Key functions are great, but you'll receive notifications whenever it detects your own face.	3.5/5

Buy it if

You rent your home

There’s no need to drill or make any permanent changes to your door, which will keep your landlord happy. When it’s time to move, the EP4 comes right off, and you can screw the old peephole back into place.

You’re on a budget

The EP4 is a great value doorbell and camera combo, and is frequently discounted on Amazon.

Security is a real concern

The 4K footage will make it easy to identify anyone who’s up to no good, if you’re unfortunate enough to need it as evidence.

Don't buy it if

You particularly want to watch for packages

Although the EP4 has a good horizontal field of view, it doesn’t cover your doorstep, so you won’t be able to see parcels left there.

You have notification fatigue

At the moment, there’s no way to avoid receiving a message when you approach your own front door.

EZVIZ EP4: also consider

If you're not sure whether the EZVIZ EP4 is the right security camera/doorbell for your home, here are two other wireless alternatives to consider.

Philips 7000 Series Video Doorbell

This excellent subscription-free doorbell earned our seal of approval due to its sharp 2K recordings, ease of use, and great battery life.

Read our full Philips 7000 Series Video Doorbell review

Eufy Video Doorbell Dual

Another solid subscription-free option, with dual cameras so you can keep an eye out for deliveries.

Read our full Eufy Video Doorbell Dual review

How I tested the EZVIZ EP4

I installed the EZVIZ EP4 on the door to my apartment, having first unscrewed the original peephole. I used it for two weeks, adding myself and my husband as 'familiar faces' halfway through. I used the two-way talk function to speak to him when I received a notification that he had arrived, and we used the doorbell function to speak to one another. I kept recordings on a microSD card once the seven-day cloud storage trial expired, and used the app to review recordings, export videos, and capture still images.

At the end of the test period, I removed the EP4 and replaced my door's original peephole. For more details, see how we test, review, and rate products at TechRadar.

First reviewed July 2026.

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AI’s timeline is very much still being written, but one thing is clear – companies are now in the midst of shifting from experimentation to widespread implementation after having determined strong use cases, with security and trust now becoming higher priorities.

The question is no longer about whether employees are willing to embrace AI, because that much is clear. It’s now about whether their employers know how AI tools are actually being used, whether they’re providing the right type of solutions, and whether their governance supports real-world use cases.

Off the back of that, companies are now struggling to tame shadow AI as workers go off to explore their preferred tools, rather than being confined to workplace-provided alternatives. But while organizations have years of experience handling shadow IT, shadow AI is presenting new challenges.

Shadow AI is harder to tame than Shadow IT – gaining visibility is the first step

Rather than being blocked from downloading certain software, workers can almost painlessly head to their chosen AI tool directly from the browser or via a personal account without approval or restrictions. As much as two-thirds (67%) of enterprise AI use now takes place through unmanaged personal accounts, even when an organization already provides enterprise-grade licenses.

But those sanctioned AI tools are clearly working for employees, who are seeing higher productivity. At the end of the day, this is a major win for companies who are under pressure to prove ROI, but shadow AI presents security risks that enterprise-grade software generally negates.

Teramind has revealed that 86% of organizations lack visibility into how data moves to and from AI tools, and it’s not just knowledge workers who are to blame. Nearly seven in 10 C-suite execs also admitted to prioritizing speed over security.

I spoke with Teramind VP of Strategy Leeron Walter to understand why shadow AI has become more of an issue than we might’ve thought, and what organizations can realistically do to regain visibility and control while continuing to meet workers where they feel most comfortable and productive.

• How do you define shadow AI, and why does it happen inside approved tools?

Shadow AI is any AI usage that operates outside organizational visibility and governance - whether through banned apps, personal accounts, or AI features embedded in tools you already pay for.

The reason it's hiding inside approved platforms is simple: vendors are racing to embed AI into everything. Your licensed Microsoft 365, your PDF reader, your CRM - they all have AI features now.

Our research shows 67% of enterprise AI usage runs through unmanaged personal accounts on corporate-licensed platforms. The perimeter didn't move. It dissolved.

• Do executives actually follow the AI policies they sign off on?

Not always. Our data is unambiguous: 69% of C-suite leaders prioritize speed over security when using AI tools, versus just 37% of frontline employees.

Executives feel competitive pressure more acutely, so they rationalize bypassing policies.

• What goes through an employee's head when they choose productivity over compliance - and can companies change that?

They're doing a fast cost-benefit calculation: "Missing this deadline hurts me now. A data breach is someone else's problem later." 60% of employees in our research said productivity benefits outweigh security risks when deadlines are involved.

You don't fix that with more restrictions - 48% said they'd use AI even if it were explicitly banned. You fix it by making the secure option just as fast and frictionless as the risky one. Remove the tradeoff entirely.

• Is Gen Z really more likely to work around AI rules?

Yes, but not because they're reckless - because they're impatient with policies that feel arbitrary. For them, AI is a basic utility, like a search engine.

Blocking it doesn't register as a security measure; it registers as the company being behind. Meet them with speed and enablement, not bureaucracy.

• Why do traditional DLP tools miss AI traffic?

Because they were built to catch files moving, not ideas being processed. Shadow IT was about unauthorized storage - a file uploaded to Dropbox.

Shadow AI is about unauthorized processing - sensitive data pasted into a chat prompt. There's no file transfer to intercept. The data moves through an encrypted browser session, and legacy DLP tools are pattern-matching against file types and network transfers, not semantic content in a chat box.

The threat model changed; the tools didn't.

• What does the first 90 days of gaining AI visibility actually look like?

Days 1–30: Observe, don't block. Deploy behavioral telemetry to build a full Shadow AI inventory - browser extensions, clipboard activity, personal account usage inside approved platforms. Understand what's actually happening before you touch anything.

Days 31–60: Categorize risk. Which tools train on user data? Which departments depend on them? This is when you find out Engineering lives in an unvetted coding assistant.

Days 61–90: Enable and enforce. Roll out approved alternatives for high-risk tools. Implement real-time coaching - block the risky action, surface the safe alternative immediately. Goal: not zero AI usage, but 100% visible AI usage.

• What does an enablement-first AI approach actually look like - and how do you stop it becoming shadow AI with extra paperwork?

You build paved roads. Give employees a fast, secure, approved AI path so they don't need to go off-road. That means enterprise AI tools with zero-retention data policies, integrated into existing workflows - not buried in a separate portal.

To avoid it becoming theater, your AI tool approval process needs to be agile. If the review takes six months, employees use the consumer version today and say nothing. Govern the data, not the application - allow the tool, but monitor and control what data flows through it in real time.

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• Watch Australia vs Ireland FREE on Rugbypass TV (US) / ITVX (UK) / Virgin Media Play (Ireland) / 9Now (Australia)
• Unlock your stream with NordVPN (save 75%)
• Australia vs Ireland kick-off: Saturday, July 4 at 6.10am ET / 11.10am BST / 20.10pm AEST

Watch Australia vs Ireland live streams in the opening round of Nations Championship 2026 fixtures. Sydney's Allianz Stadium hosts a Wallabies team that's traded endless false dawns for perpetual night, though Andy Farrell's visitors are missing several key men.

Some 15 months out from a home World Cup, the Aussies have a golden chance to build some goodwill and momentum against a rugged Ireland outfit they haven't beaten in over eight years. It's five wins in a row for the Irish, the latest a 46-19 drubbing littered with Aussie errors in Dublin last November.

Former Ireland coach Joe Schmidt, who will pass the baton to Les Kiss at the end of this month, has made some eye-catching selections, recalling Jock Campbell to the international fold after four years out in the cold. He's also handed Ryan Lonergan his maiden start at scrum-half, partnering him with fly-half Carter Gordon. They've never played together before, and they've had just a handful of training sessions to get up to speed.

An injury to first-choice fly-half Jack Crowley has reopened the door for Sam Prendergast, who had a harrowing time of things at the Six Nations. The 23-year-old, however, ended the domestic season by leading Leinster to the URC title, and he'll want to make the most of his opportunity here. It's going to be a tall order, however, with Andrew Porter, Mack Hansen and captain Caelan Doris also among the Irish absentees.

Read on as we explain how to watch Australia vs Ireland for free in the 2026 Nations Championship.

Can you watch Australia vs Ireland for free?

Yes. Australia vs Ireland is being shown on free-to-air Rugbypass TV in the US, on ITVX in the UK, on Virgin Media Play in Ireland and on 9Now in Australia.

Traveling abroad right now? You can use a VPN to watch Australia vs Ireland for free as if you were right at home.

Use a VPN to watch Australia vs Ireland live streams

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How to watch Australia vs Ireland live streams in the US

Australia vs Ireland, along with all 42 Nations Championship games, is available to live stream for FREE on Rugbypass TV in the US.

You can tune in via the Rugbypass TV website or app, and it works with Chromecast, Airplay, AppleTV and Android TV.

Outside of the US? Use a VPN while you're traveling away from home to unlock your stream.

How to watch Australia vs Ireland live streams in the UK

In the UK, Australia vs Ireland is free-to-air on ITV1, with live streaming available via ITVX.

All you need is an account, a TV license and a UK postcode (e.g.HA9 0WS). Sign up here!

If you're out of the UK but still want to tune in, explore the VPN route set out above, which will help you access your accounts from anywhere.

How to watch Australia vs Ireland live streams in Ireland

Australia vs Ireland is free-to-air on Virgin Media One in Ireland, with live streaming available via the Virgin Media Play platform.

Outside Ireland? You’ll need to download a VPN, as detailed above, to tap into your free Nations Championship stream from abroad.

How to watch Australia vs Ireland live streams in Australia

In Australia, Wallabies vs Ireland is free-to-air on Channel 9, with live streaming available via 9Now.

Stan Sport, meanwhile, is providing coverage of every Nations Championship game. Stan Sport costs AU$20/month on top of a Stan subscription, which itself starts at AU$12/month.

Not in Australia right now? You can simply use a VPN like NordVPN to watch the action as if you were back home.

How to watch Australia vs Ireland live streams in New Zealand

In New Zealand, Sky Sport NZ is showing the Australia vs Ireland game.

You can access Sky Sport through satellite TV or get a live stream, with the Sky Sport Now subscription service starting at NZ$29.99 per day or NZ$59.99 per month.

Those outside of New Zealand for any part of the Nations Championship can use NordVPN to gain access to their home streaming service.

How to watch Australia vs Ireland live streams in South Africa

The Australia vs Ireland game is being shown on Supersport in South Africa.

You'll need to get a DStv access package to watch the Nations Championship 2026, with prices starting at Rs99/month for the streaming version.

Abroad right now? Just use a VPN and tell your device that you're back home and you'll be good to go.

How to watch Australia vs Ireland live streams in Canada

(Image credit: Other)

In Canada, Australia vs Ireland is being shown on Premier Sports.

You'll need either the monthly CA$29.99 pass to watch this game. Or to catch the whole tournament, it's the CA$79.99 six-month pass or the CA$139.99/year annual subscription.

If you're out of Canada but still want to catch the action, explore the VPN route set out above, which will help you access your accounts from anywhere.

What is the Australia vs Ireland start time?

The scheduled Australia vs Ireland kick-off time on Saturday, July 4 is 8.10pm AEST local time in Sydney, which is 3.10am PT / 6.10am ET / 11.10am BST.

What is the Australia vs Ireland head-to-head?

The Wallabies have won 22 of their 39 previous encounters with Ireland. Ireland have won 16, and the other ended in a draw.

In Australia, the head-to-head stands at 11-5.

Can I watch Australia vs Ireland on my mobile?

Of course, most broadcasters have streaming services that you can access through mobile apps or via your phone's browser. For example, ITVX, Rugbypass TV and Virgin Media Play all have dedicated apps.

We test and review VPN services in the context of legal recreational uses. For example:1. Accessing a service from another country (subject to the terms and conditions of that service).2. Protecting your online security and strengthening your online privacy when abroad.We do not support or condone the illegal or malicious use of VPN services. Consuming pirated content that is paid-for is neither endorsed nor approved by Future Publishing.

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AFERIY Nomad 1800 Pro: Design

The Nomad 1800 Pro makes a positive first impression as a portable power station. It's compact, easy to carry and has a clean industrial design that looks at home in a garage, campervan or utility room.

Look a little closer, however, and some cost-saving measures become apparent.

The plastics are perfectly functional but don't quite offer the reassuring solidity you'd expect from a premium product. Nothing feels fragile, yet the overall finish lacks the refinement found on more established alternatives.

(Image credit: Future)

The weakest point is the power button. It has a soft, almost hollow action that doesn't inspire confidence, particularly as it's the one control you'll use every time you switch the unit on.

Fortunately, AFERIY makes some smart decisions elsewhere. Using a standard IEC C13 "kettle lead" for AC charging is a welcome choice, eliminating the need for proprietary charging cables. Likewise, the XT60 solar input means compatible solar panels are easy to source without hunting for obscure adapters.

(Image credit: Future)

AFERIY Nomad 1800 Pro: Features

Expansion is one of the Nomad's strongest selling points.

Specifications

Capacity

1,024Wh (2,048Wh tested with expansion battery)

Battery chemistry

LiFePO₄

AC output

1,800W

Surge output

3,600W

Solar input

500W MPPT (XT60)

AC charging

IEC C13

Expansion

Up to four batteries (5,120Wh total)

USB-C

1 × 20W, 1 × 140W PD

Weight

11.6kg

The additional battery connects using an impressively substantial cable, and the connector itself is particularly well designed. A push-to-release mechanism combined with a sliding lock prevents accidental disconnection while remaining easy to remove when required.

The expansion system is also future-proofed, allowing multiple batteries to be daisy chained together for significantly increased capacity.

There are a couple of compromises, however.

The expansion battery serves only as additional storage and doesn't provide any extra output ports of its own. More noticeable is the length of the connection cable, which protrudes around 30cm from the rear of both units. Anyone planning to install the batteries beneath a workbench or inside cabinetry will need to account for the extra depth.

Port selection is generally sensible but not perfect.

(Image credit: Future)

USB-C connectivity feels limited, with just one 20W port alongside a single 140W Power Delivery output. Given the growing number of USB-C powered devices, another high-power port would have been far more useful.

The inclusion of several 12V barrel outputs is also difficult to justify. While some specialist equipment still relies on barrel connectors, most modern devices either use USB-C or their supplied AC adapters, making these ports feel like a missed opportunity for additional USB connectivity.

(Image credit: Future)

AFERIY Nomad 1800 Pro: Performance

Where it matters most, the Nomad performs extremely well.

The inverter comfortably powers demanding appliances, charging is quick, and overall operation is quiet and dependable. Day-to-day use inspires confidence, with no unexpected behavior during testing.

The integrated LED light is useful enough for finding tools or navigating around a campsite after dark, but it's very much a basic utility feature rather than a dedicated work light. It does the job, but little more.

(Image credit: Future)

AFERIY Nomad 1800 Pro: App

The companion app is easily the weakest part of the ownership experience.

Getting started proved frustrating, with registration and login issues complicating what should have been a straightforward setup process.

Once connected, the app is functional but lacks polish. Navigation feels clunky, some menu layouts appear unfinished and there are the occasional interface glitches that suggest the software still needs refinement.

Everything required to monitor and control the power station is present, but the overall experience feels more utilitarian than premium.

For a company still building its ecosystem, improving the software should be a clear priority.

(Image credit: Future)

AFERIY Nomad 1800 Pro: Value

Value is where the Nomad 1800 Pro really shines.

Its hardware specifications compare remarkably well with considerably more expensive products, and if purchased during one of the frequent online promotions, it becomes exceptionally competitive.

While there are areas where refinement is lacking, it's difficult to argue with the amount of capability on offer for the asking price.

(Image credit: Future)

AFERIY Nomad 1800 Pro: Final Verdict

The AFERIY Nomad 1800 Pro is an impressive portable power station that gets the fundamentals right. Electrical performance is excellent, the expansion system is thoughtfully engineered and practical touches such as the IEC C13 charging lead and XT60 solar input make day-to-day ownership refreshingly straightforward.

At the same time, it's clear that AFERIY is still a relatively young company. The hardware lacks some of the refinement expected at the premium end of the market, the power button feels oddly inexpensive, and the companion app is in need of further development.

(Image credit: Future)

None of these shortcomings undermine what is otherwise a capable and well-priced product. In fact, they're largely overshadowed by the Nomad's excellent value, dependable performance and flexible expansion options.

For buyers willing to accept a few rough edges in exchange for impressive capability at a competitive price, the AFERIY Nomad 1800 Pro earns an easy recommendation—and suggests AFERIY is a brand well worth watching over the coming years.

(Image credit: Future)

Should you buy the AFERIY Nomad 1800 Pro?

Buy it if...

- You want excellent performance without paying premium prices.

- Expandable battery capacity is important.

- You appreciate standard connectors like IEC C13 and XT60.

- You need reliable portable power for home, workshop or camping.

Don't buy it if...

- A polished mobile app is high on your priority list.

- You expect premium fit and finish throughout.

- You rely heavily on multiple USB-C powered devices.

- You prefer the reassurance of a long-established brand.

We've featured the best rugged phones.

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