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Perfect Timing for Firefox: Developing an AI Browser and the Future of the Web

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Need an assistant for your online activities? Several major artificial intelligence companies have moved away from chatbots like ChatGPT and are now focusing on new browsers with deep AI integration. These could take the form of agents who shop for you or ubiquitous chatbots that follow you, summarizing what you’re looking at, looking up related information, and answering related questions.

In the last week alone, OpenAI released the ChatGPT Atlas browser, while Microsoft showcased Edge’s new Copilot mode, both heavily utilizing chatbots. In early October, Perplexity made its Comet browser available for free. Mid-September saw Google rolling out Chrome with Gemini, integrating its AI assistant into the world’s most popular browser.

Following these releases, I spoke with Firefox General Manager Anthony Enzor-DeMeo to discuss whether AI-first browsers will gain traction, if Firefox will evolve to be fully AI-driven, and how user privacy expectations may change in this new era of personalized, agent-driven browsing.

Guardian: Have you tried ChatGPT Atlas or other AI browsers? I’m curious what you think about them.

Anthony Enzor-DeMeo: Yes, I’ve tried Atlas, Comet, and other competing products. What do I think about them? It’s a fascinating question: What do users want to see? Today, users typically go to Google, perform a search, and view various results. Atlas seems to be transitioning towards providing direct answers.

Guardian: Would you want that as a user?

Enzor-DeMeo: I prefer knowing where the AI derives its answers. References are important, and Perplexity’s Comet provides them. I believe that’s a positive development for the internet.

Guardian: How do you envision the future of the web? Is search evolving into a chat interface instead of relying solely on links?

Enzor-DeMeo: I’m concerned that access to content on the web may become more expensive. The internet has traditionally been free, mostly supported by advertising, though some sites do have subscriptions. I’m particularly interested in how access to content might shrink behind paywalls while aiming for a free and open internet. AI may not be immediately profitable, yet we have to guard against a shift towards a more closed internet.

Guardian: Do you anticipate Firefox releasing an AI-integrated or agent-like browser similar to Perplexity Comet or Atlas?

Enzor-DeMeo: Our focus remains on being the best browser available. With 200 million users, we need to encourage people to choose us over default options. We closely monitor user preferences regarding AI features, which are gradually introduced. Importantly, users retain control; they can disable features they do not wish to use.

Guardian: Do you think AI browsers will become popular or remain niche tools?

Enzor-DeMeo: Currently, paid AI usage is about 3% globally, so it’s premature to deem it fully mainstream. However, I believe AI is here to stay. The forthcoming years will likely see greater distribution and trial and error as we discover effective revenue models that users are willing to pay for. This varies widely by country and region, so the next phase of the internet presents uncertainties.

Guardian: What AI partnerships is Firefox considering?

Enzor-DeMeo: We recently launched Perplexity, akin to a search partnership agreement. While Google search is our default, users have access to 50 other search engines, providing them with options.

Guardian: Given your valuable partnership with Google, what financial significance does the Perplexity partnership hold?

Enzor-DeMeo: I’m unable to share specific details.

Guardian: Firefox has established its reputation on user privacy. How do you reconcile increasing demands for personalization, which requires more data, with AI-assisted browsing?

Enzor-DeMeo: Browsers inherently have a lot of user context. Companies are developing AI browsers to leverage this data for enhanced personalization and targeted ads. Mozilla will continue to honor users’ choices. If you prefer not to store data, that’s entirely valid. Users aren’t required to log in and can enjoy completely private browsing. If it results in less personalized AI, that’s acceptable. Ultimately, the choice lies with users.

Guardian: Do you think users anticipate sacrificing privacy for personalization?

Enzor-DeMeo: We’ve observed a generational divide. Younger cohorts prioritize value exchange—will sharing more information lead to a more tailored experience? In a landscape with numerous apps and social media, this expectation has emerged. However, perspectives vary between generations; Millennials often value choice, while Gen Xers prioritize privacy. Many Gen Z users emphasize personalization and choice.

Guardian: What are your thoughts on the recent court decision regarding Google’s monopoly?

Enzor-DeMeo: The judge acknowledged the influx of competition entering the market. He deliberately avoided delving into the browser engine domain. We support search competition but not at the cost of independent browsers. The ruling allows us to keep receiving compensation while monitoring market evolution over the next few years. The intersection of search and AI remains uncertain, and a prudent stance is to observe how these developments unfold.

Guardian: Firefox’s market share has been steadily declining over the past decade; what are your realistic goals for user growth in the coming years?

Enzor-DeMeo: Every user must decide to download and use Firefox. We’re proud to serve 200 million users. I believe that AI presents us with significant growth opportunities. We want to provide choices rather than lock users into a single solution, fostering diverse growth possibilities for us.

Source: www.theguardian.com

Nanoparticles Could Be the Key to Creating the Perfect Plastic

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Enhancing PVC Pipes with Nanoparticles

Credits: Valentyn Semenov/Alamy

The addition of nanoparticles may provide a solution to a longstanding challenge in the plastic manufacturing industry. The question remains: how can we develop materials that are robust, durable, and easy to handle?

Hu-Jun Qian from Jilling University in China and his team refer to this dilemma as the plastic trilemma. Enhancing the polymer’s deformability often becomes challenging, leading to materials that are either overly viscous or difficult to manipulate.

To tackle this, the researchers incorporated polystyrene-based nanoparticles into several widely used plastics. For instance, they enhanced PEMA, a polymer commonly used in manufacturing hearing aids, artificial nails, acrylic glass for aquariums and glasses, as well as PVC used in construction and packaging.

The team subjected the modified material to various tests to determine its stretching capacity before failure. Overall, the newly developed materials exhibited improved performance across multiple assessments, sometimes showing remarkable differences. The findings indicated that PEMA became about 50% stronger with the inclusion of nanoparticles. “This lays down essential design principles for next-generation polymers featuring previously unattainable property combinations,” Qian explains.

To further investigate the advantages of incorporating nanoparticles, the researchers also performed computer simulations of the new materials. These simulations indicated that nanoparticles could shift and redistribute within the material under stress, enabling a slow and smooth deformation rather than catastrophic failure. This mobility was equally advantageous for plastics that become more fluid when molten, making them stronger, more durable, and viable.

Qian notes that this innovative approach aligns with existing industrial processes and can be scaled up effectively. “This method could transform applications needing lightweight, durable, and easily manufactured materials, including composites for automotive and aerospace, sustainable packaging, biomedical devices, and highly recyclable plastics,” he asserts.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

How to Select the Perfect Fertilizer for Your Varied Plants

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Farmers providing granulated fertilizer to young tomato plants while wearing gloves and using excavators in an organic garden.

“For most plants, a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer would be fine.”

ShutterStock/Encierro

A visit to the garden center reveals a multitude of fertilizers lining the shelves. These vibrant bottles promise optimal results for a range of plants, from lawns and roses to ferns and Japanese maples. But do home gardeners truly require them? Let’s explore the science behind it.

Plants require approximately 16 essential mineral nutrients, most of which are needed in minor quantities. At the heart of plant nutrition—fertilizer—lies three primary macronutrients: nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K). The main distinction between various fertilizers is the proportion of these nutrients, denoted on the label after the letters “NPK”.

For lush grass, opt for fertilizers with high nitrogen content. However, for flowering and fruiting plants like tomatoes and roses, a greater amount of potassium is necessary. Fortunately, gardeners don’t need to pore over every label; most fertilizers are conveniently labeled to indicate their best uses.

Things become more complicated, however. I recently compared three “expert” plant foods from well-known brands designed for roses, strawberries, and tomatoes. All had the identical NPK ratio of 4-2-6, making their only real difference the packaging. Ultimately, plants synthesize nutrients from the soil as needed. In most cases, a balanced, general-purpose fertilizer is sufficient. Curiously, some specialized feeds are merely repackaged versions of generic fertilizers.

Stocking a wide array of specific fertilizers is not only costly and unnecessary but can also be detrimental. Fertilizers should only be used to replenish deficient minerals in the soil. For instance, excessive nitrogen can result in soft and pest-prone growth or lead to poor-quality crops. In contrast, excess phosphorus is often washed away, contributing to water pollution and causing environmental damage, particularly in fertile regions like the UK, where garden soils are richer compared to agricultural lands. Intensive management practices often exacerbate this issue.

So, what’s the takeaway? Invest in affordable, user-friendly home soil tests instead of unnecessary fertilizers. Of course, there are some exceptions. Acid-loving plants like rhododendrons may need an iron boost, and other nutrients that are harder to absorb from neutral soils. Similarly, container plants (particularly those grown in nutrient-poor media like peat) typically require fertilizer supplements during their growing season. Nonetheless, for most home gardeners—including houseplant enthusiasts—a single balanced fertilizer is enough, giving you more time (and money) to enjoy nurturing your plants.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Discover Bernband’s Alien Landscape: A Perfect Spot for Digital Exploration—No Maps Needed!

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hA game serves as a poetic narrative within its description. Bernband is described as “a science fiction exploration game for those who enjoy wandering….” Players can meander through vivid and peculiar worlds, bask in the glow of streetlights, and navigate beneath the zigzagging flags overhead. They traverse corridors hosting odd green flora growing in planters, and even engage with otherworldly subway trains that sway above them—tentacle grips, perhaps? “I have no objectives apart from walking,” the game’s Steam page asserts. “Where will your feet lead you?”

There’s an alluring quality about a game that encourages exploration. However, this doesn’t imply that creating such a game is straightforward. “Wandering as the primary objective poses numerous challenges,” remarks Tom Van Den Boogart, who began this venture back in 2014 to reassess the project.




“Exploration is our primary goal”… Bern Band. Photo: Sokpop Collective

Consequently, every journey through Bernband commences similarly. In a modest apartment with windows offering glimpses of the strange universe contained within the game. “The idea is to convey that you are a resident of this city,” explains Van den Boogert. “And as time passes, familiarity with the environment will develop. Your adventure starts once you step through the door.” The apartment also serves as a sanctuary for players to return to after their explorations. “It introduces a subtle goal: ‘Can I find my way back to the apartment?’ Even if it’s just at a subconscious level.”

Van Den Boogat discovered quickly that the Wandering Game should offer players destinations to explore freely. Consequently, the majority of the Bernband universe is arranged in a nonlinear manner. “In most instances, there are various routes to a destination,” he states. “Some paths are more obscure or less obvious than others. If exploration is the core objective of the game, I aim to allow players to choose what they wish to investigate.”




An alien city influenced by real-world locations… Bern Band. Photo: Sokpop Collective

Despite this unobtrusive design, Van Den Boogat acknowledges that avoiding predictability is an ongoing struggle. Yet, he persists. “I believe having access to this sort of information can rob players of the enchanting feeling that comes from stumbling upon hidden realms,” he chuckles. “You are aware that they exist on some level.”

The alien city in Bernband isn’t structured as a traditional open world; instead, it comprises distinct areas interlinked by elevators and various transport options. This format was chosen to ensure that players can immerse themselves in specific sections of a broader landscape. Additionally, Van Den Boogat creates from a compilation of locations he finds engaging or enjoyable. To maintain his creativity, he ensures this list remains somewhat vague: a large supermarket, a shaded bar, and a swimming pool with water slides.

https://www.youtube-nocookie.com/embed/yxSl96druSQ?wmode=opaque&feature=oembed" title="Bernband – Announcement Trailer" height="480" width="854" allowfullscreen="

And while the world is alien, Bernband draws inspiration from real-life locations familiar to Van Den Boogat, whether it’s his hometown of Gouda in the Netherlands or influential spots in the gaming industry found in Tokyo, San Francisco, Stockholm, and beyond.

“When I develop games, I prefer to draw inspiration from personal memories and experiences, rather than other media like games or films,” he shares. “This approach fosters a deeper, more personal connection to my work, and I hope it imparts a unique essence to the game and its world.”

Bernband is currently under development for PC, with no release date confirmed as of yet.

Source: www.theguardian.com

The Perfect Season to Admire the Milky Way

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Milky Way over Uluru, Australia

Stefan Liebermann/Mauritius Images GmbH/Alamy

Being located in the Northern Hemisphere, my recommendations for observing the night sky are often limited by this perspective. Thus, in this edition, we shift our focus to the stunning views offered by the Southern Hemisphere, particularly the Milky Way during this time.

Every visible star belongs to our galaxy; when I gaze at the night sky, I’m encountering the Milky Way. Stargazers refer to the Milky Way as the luminous bands of stars and cosmic dust found toward the core of our spiral galaxy. This plane is tilted approximately 60 degrees relative to the solar system, enabling us to see the inner edge of the spiral arm that faces away from our location. Viewed in three dimensions, it resembles a curved arc across the sky.

This view is significantly enhanced in the Southern Hemisphere due to the Earth’s tilt. Stargazers in the southern part of the globe have the advantage of looking toward the galaxy’s center, while those in the north gaze away from it into a star-bereft region. This positioning allows for a clearer view of numerous constellations near the galactic core, including Centaurus and Sagittarius.

Regardless of your location on Earth, we share the same sunlit side, making this the optimum time for celestial observation. However, the Southern Hemisphere offers year-round visibility of the Milky Way—a perk of our planet’s tilt plus the benefits of darker nights during this season.

A decade-old study indicates that one-third of the global population is unable to see the Milky Way, a figure likely increasing due to growing light pollution. I encourage you to seek a remote location on a moonlit night; a new moon, around June 25th, would be ideal. It typically takes your eyes about 40 minutes to adjust to darkness, so if you’re in the Northern Hemisphere, you might need to wait until after midnight for optimal conditions.

Some of my most unforgettable nights under the stars occurred in the Southern Hemisphere. The first was at Mount Cook, New Zealand, in early June, and the second was at Warrumbungle National Park, Australia, in April. On both occasions, I was utterly amazed by the sight of the Milky Way, as captured in the image of Uluru, Australia.

If you’re stargazing in the Southern Hemisphere, make sure to look for the Milky Way. You might even spot two of our neighboring galaxies: the Large and Small Magellanic Clouds. Neither of these is visible from the Northern Hemisphere but can be located near the southern celestial pole.

Abigail Beall is the editor of New Scientist and author of Art of Urban Astronomy. Follow her @abbybeall

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Scientists Unveil the Key to the Perfect Plate of Pasta

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Italian scientists have figured out how to achieve a flawlessly creamy pasta sauce each time by delving into the physics of cooking Cacio E Pepe.

Cacio E Pepe translates to “cheese and pepper” and is a classic Italian dish made with pasta, Pecorino Romano cheese, and black pepper.

Despite its simplicity, this recipe can easily be mishandled. Combining warm pasta water with cheese can lead to a sticky clump of cheese and watery pasta instead of a smooth, creamy sauce.

Researchers from the University of Barcelona in Spain, the Max Planck Institute for Complex Systems Physics in Germany, the University of Padova in Italy, and the Institute of Science and Technology in Austria collaborated to analyze the science behind a creamy Cacio E Pepe sauce.

To achieve a completely creamy pasta sauce like Cacio E Pepe, the starch in pasta water serves as a crucial stabilizer when mixed with cheese – Photo Credit: Getty

“We are Italians living abroad,” said Dr. Ivan di Terlizzi from the Max Planck Institute. “We often gather for dinner and enjoy traditional dishes.

“While cooking Cacio E Pepe, I thought this would be an intriguing physical system to investigate and explain. Plus, it served a practical purpose to avoid wasting good Pecorino.

A recent study, published in Liquid Physics by the American Institute of Physics, revealed that the secret to a creamy, cheesy sauce lies in the water.

Typically, fats like oils and cheese should not mix with water. However, the starch in the pasta water, when added to the cheese, acts as a stabilizer to create creamy emulsions.

Research author Dr. Daniel Busiello explained to BBC Science Focus that when cheese is heated, its proteins “change composition” and stick together.

“But starch mitigates this effect by binding to cheese proteins, reducing their direct interactions and thereby limiting aggregation,” he detailed.

According to scientists, the ideal pasta water for a creamy Cacio E Pepe sauce contains about 2-3% starch, and they advise against accidentally leaving starch in your water.

“Starch is a critical ingredient, and its quantity can be precisely measured. Therefore, we recommend using accurately measured amounts of starch,” Da Terlizzi said. “This can only be achieved if you have the correct amount of powdered starch in proportion to the cheese you are using.”

As a result, the researchers suggest adding a measured amount of potato starch or corn flour to the water, rather than pouring raw pasta water directly into the pan.

They also recommend allowing the water to cool before incorporating the cheese.

For perfect creaminess, scientists advise first mixing the water and starch, then combining this starch-water mixture with the cheese, adding it all to the pan, and slowly heating it. Finally, add the black pepper and pasta.

Busiello noted that the scientists’ recipe “remains faithful to Italian traditions,” with the only alteration being the use of powdered starch to maintain control over the amount used.

“An experienced chef probably does not require our recipe,” he remarked. “However, we offer a method to ensure that traditional Cacio E Pepe can be prepared even in challenging situations, like cooking large amounts of pasta, effortlessly.”

“Of course, we tested this method with over two kilograms of pasta, and all our guests enjoyed it!”

Busiello added that measuring starch could also benefit other Italian pasta dishes, such as spaghetti Aglio e olio and Carbonara, which also rely on pasta water and cheese sauce.

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About our experts

Dr. Daniel M. Busiello is a distinguished PKS fellow at the Max Planck Institute for the Physics of Complex Systems in Dresden, Germany, and works as an independent researcher. He previously studied at the University of Salerno and Pisa before completing his PhD in Entropy Production in Non-equilibrium Systems at Padova University.

Source: www.sciencefocus.com

The Physics of the Perfect Coffee Pour

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Every day, over a billion cups of coffee are consumed, including French presses, espresso, and cold brewing.

Physicist Arnold Mattissen from the University of Pennsylvania has a bias towards the art of pouring coffee. He manually pours hot water over ground beans, filters it into a pot or mug, and believes that applying fluid dynamics principles could improve the process even further.

Dr. Mathijssen, along with two like-minded students, conducted research on optimizing the pouring method. Their scientifically-backed advice is to pour water in high, slow, and steady streams to maximize extraction and enhance the flavor of the coffee without any additional costs.

Results from a recent survey published in the Journal Physics of Fluids show how the coffee pouring process in the kitchen can lead to new scientific directions in different culinary techniques. This demonstrates how science can improve the art of cooking.

Dr. Mathijssen, who primarily studies biological flow physics, began experimenting with food during the Covid-19 shutdown when he lost access to his lab. This led to exploring the physics involved in various cooking techniques, including pasta stickiness and whipped cream structures. His interest in kitchen physics remains high.

While Dr. Mathijssen has returned to the lab, his passion for kitchen physics continues. The coffee research was inspired by scientists in his group who kept detailed notes on daily coffee brewing experiments in the lab, noting details such as bean origin, extraction time, and flavor profiles.

Graduate student Ernest Park designed a formal experiment using silica gel beads in glass cones to simulate pouring water into coffee grounds from different heights, capturing the dynamics with a high-speed camera.

Source: www.nytimes.com

Report: Climate change made conditions perfect for fueling California’s fire outbreak

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summary

  • A new report states that the modern and dry winds that have been dried at high temperatures led to the fire in the Southern California have been about 35 % higher due to climate change.
  • The survey results are from a world meteorological group that analyzes the effects of global warming on extreme events.
  • The fire killed at least 29 people and destroyed more than 16,000 buildings.

The International Scientist Group has increased the extreme situation of climate change in the extreme situation that recent fires have made RO sounds in the Los Angeles area as a whole.

A strong state of dry winds at high temperatures ahead of the fire could have been about 35 % higher due to global warming caused by humans. New reports from the World Meteorological attribute groupWe analyze the effects of global warming on extreme events.

The fire, which began in the event of a fierce storm in the spring, killed at least 29 people, including houses, shops, and schools, as it had not been raining in the Great Los Angeles since spring.

“This was a perfect storm for the conditions of the fire disaster. From the viewpoint of the climate that enables the climate, the weather that drives the fire, and the huge environment from the place where these ignitions occurred.” Merced, who contributed to the report at the University of California, said at a press conference.

Compared to the time before the industrial revolution before fossil fuels were widely used, the Los Angeles area had a “dry season” on average every year, and the fire may match the seasonal Santaanana style. Is high. 。

Park Williams, a geographical professor at the University of Los Angeles, the University of California, said Park Williams in the cool season of Southern California. Unusually dry state; Ignition (almost always comes from people); and extreme weather like recent storms. He explained each of these conditions as an individual switch in a system that needs to be turned over all four to emit light.

“The artificial warming caused by climate change caused by humans makes light brighter,” said Williams.

The author in the report analyzes the weather and climate models to evaluate how the warm atmosphere changes the possibility of fire (it means a condition that increases the risk of mountain fire). They also tracked how metrics called the fire weather index changed over time. The index tracks all factors that contribute to temperature, relative humidity, wind speed, and fire.

Researchers have discovered that the types of conditions that promote the fire in the LA region are expected to occur once every 17 years in today's climate. Such a state would have been predicted once in 23 years without climate change, and it would not have been so extreme when they occurred.

Source: www.nbcnews.com

Dating app set to unveil AI capabilities to assist users in finding the perfect match

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Feeling exhausted from writing dating profiles or swiping endlessly on dating apps? Wondering if dating apps are even worth it? Let a digital buddy handle the work for you.

As user fatigue becomes apparent with a noticeable decline in user numbers, the world’s largest online dating company is fighting back with artificial intelligence that promises to “revolutionize” online dating. Introducing an intelligent assistant.

Match Group, the tech company holding the biggest dating platform portfolio globally, recently announced a heightened investment in AI for new products launching in March 2025.

The upcoming AI assistant will take on essential dating tasks like selecting photos to maximize responses, suggesting prompts and profile information, and assisting users in finding their ideal match.

Through audio interviews, the AI will understand users’ dating objectives and recommend messages to send to matches based on shared interests.

Additionally, the AI will offer coaching for struggling users and provide tips on how to enhance profile visibility for those facing challenges in getting attention from matches.

Match Group CEO Bernard Kim expressed to investors that the company’s focus on AI signifies the start of a new phase known as the “AI transformation.”

Last month’s Ofcom report suggested a decrease in subscribers for Tinder and Hinge, the primary apps under Match Group, indicating a drop in app usage compared to the previous year.

Gary Swidler, Match Group’s president and CFO, emphasized the ongoing investment in AI technology to streamline the dating experience and highlighted the forthcoming benefits for investors and users.

However, critics like Anastasia Babas raise concerns about the potential negative impact of increased reliance on AI in dating, highlighting issues around personal agency, data privacy, and bias elimination.

Tinder CEO Faye Iosotaluno acknowledged the cautious approach towards AI data processing while committed to integrating it into the mainstream to transform user interactions thoughtfully.

Source: www.theguardian.com

Perfect Time to Buy an Electric Car in the UK: Unbeatable Deals on Electric, Hybrid, and Low Emission Vehicles

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IIf you’re considering trading up to an electric vehicle but think it’s too costly, think again. Used Tesla Model 3 or Kia e-Niros, capable of 250-300 miles on a single charge, can now be purchased for just £14,000.

Last year, prices for used electric vehicles dropped significantly, making previously unattainable models now accessible to many families.

In fact, Autotrader reported that EVs are now almost as affordable as petrol cars, with the average price of a three- to five-year-old EV in July being £18,964, compared to £18,076 for a petrol car of the same model year.

Ground-breaking ultra-efficient models from three to four years ago are now available on the second-hand market at much more affordable prices, despite initially costing between £40,000 and £50,000 new.

According to David Smith of Cleveleys Electric Vehicles, there are some incredible deals available, with cars offering nearly the same driving range as new models, proven reliability, and warranties still intact, all at a fraction of the price.

One EV specialist highly recommends the Kia e-Niro, especially with its 64kWh battery. Photo: Sue Thatcher/Alamy

Smith also recommended the Kia e-Niro with its 64kWh battery for families under £15,000, citing its efficiency, range, and reliability.

Another model to consider is the MG5, which has proven to be extremely reliable according to Cleveleys Electric Vehicles.

Smith mentioned that longer-range EVs are not as risky as perceived, with many cars maintaining their mileage even after extensive use.

Buying a used, fuel-efficient EV eliminates the issues that new electric vehicles may face, making them a practical choice for many buyers.

For those looking to purchase, there are several affordable options available, like the Kia e-Niro and Tesla Model 3, both offering long-distance capabilities at competitive prices.

Charging at home is much cheaper than using public charging points, making EVs even more cost-effective in the long run.

The Tesla Model 3 has proven to be capable of long distance driving. Photo: Taina Sohlman/Alamy

Consider the warranties, charging options, and overall cost before making a decision on purchasing a used EV.

Charging at home is much cheaper than using a public charging point. Photo: Christopher Thomond/The Guardian

Consider the charging infrastructure, insurance costs, and warranty coverage when buying a used EV to ensure a wise investment.

Source: www.theguardian.com

Struggling to find the perfect gift for your teenager? Discover the top tech gifts for teens in 2024

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When it comes to choosing gifts for teenagers, gift cards are often the go-to option. With new technology constantly emerging, it can be challenging to find products that are both worth buying and will be loved by your teen.

Our list features a variety of fantastic tech gifts for teenagers, from cutting-edge gadgets for amazing selfies to popular items that can transform a regular bedroom into the ultimate teen hideaway. These products cater to every budget and level of tech knowledge – you don’t have to be a tech expert to enjoy these innovative devices.

These tech gifts are truly inspiring.

If you know a teenager who’s into science, don’t miss out on these amazing science gifts for teens.

Best Tech Gifts for Teens

Adding a color-changing LED light strip can instantly elevate a dull bedroom into a vibrant, multi-colored space. Perfect for adding a touch of excitement to a sleepover, gaming session, or just a relaxing night at home. This LED light strip may be one of the best tech gifts for teenagers.

Philips Hue Series Tapo is a well-known name in smart LED strips, and this version of Tapo is a great budget-friendly choice.

Setting up is easy – simply stick the strips on shelves, screens, or other bedroom furniture. The strips are five meters long and can be cut to any desired size. Use the Tapo app to select preset lighting moods, effects, and timers to automatically control the multicolored LEDs. It works over standard home Wi-Fi and is compatible with Alexa and Google Assistant for voice control.

For more gift ideas, check out our guide to the best sci-fi games.

Latest Philips Hue Lightstrip deals:

Tapo Light Strip Latest Deals:

Insta360 X3

At first glance, this small gadget may seem expensive, but its impressive features speak for themselves.

The Insta360 X3 features a 5.7K 360° camera with useful functions like image stabilization, horizon lock, and HDR mode. With the extended selfie stick, the camera intelligently edits your footage to provide a unique third-person perspective, almost like having your personal videographer.

Don’t miss out on the best instant cameras for more photo gift ideas.

While the camera captures the action in 360°, you have the freedom to choose the best angle for your video.

Additional features include:

  • 8K quality 360° time lapse video
  • Automatically saves 15 or 30 seconds of footage before hitting the shutter button
  • Convenient automated editing and live 360° streaming allow viewers to see from every angle
  • Focus on a single person, animal, or moving object and keep it centered in the frame.
  • Waterproof up to 10m, extendable to 50m with a diving case (sold separately)

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Crosley Voyager Portable Turntable

A portable record player like the Crosley Voyager makes a fun and unique gift for teenagers. Music enthusiasts will appreciate having a stylish turntable in their room.

This turntable’s portability is a standout feature – easily pack it up and take your music with you to parties, vacations, and other gatherings.

Despite its vintage look, the turntable is equipped with modern features: Built-in stereo speakers and Bluetooth for streaming music from your phone, plus a headphone jack for private listening. The turntable also offers three speed settings for playing traditional records.

The Crosley Voyager is an affordable turntable option. If you’re unsure about it, explore our top record players currently available.

While you’re here, check out the best sunrise alarm clocks too.

Mini projector

A portable projector is a must-have for sleepovers or movie nights at home. Whether your teen has a TV in their room or not, this gadget will enhance their viewing experience with a projection size of up to 210 inches.

This is also perfect for PlayStation and Xbox enthusiasts.

While projectors can be pricey, this one offers a balance of affordability and quality. Highly rated by customers, it supports Full HD with 7500 lumens and allows you to choose your preferred projection size from 35 inches to 210 inches, from a distance of 3.7 feet from the wall.

Featuring built-in Hi-Fi speakers, it also has an audio-out port for connecting external speakers or headphones. Once set up, you can connect your phone, tablet, laptop, or gaming console to enjoy TV shows, movies, and photos (some devices may require an HDMI cable).

Explore our guide for the best projectors for your home for more options.

Ultimate Ears BOOM 3 Wireless Bluetooth Speaker

There are few speakers that deliver both style and sound quality, but the Ultimate Ears Boom 3 manages to do just that. With its unique “unicorn” appearance, this speaker stands out from the crowd. It also boasts impressive technical specifications.

The Boom 3 is fully waterproof, allowing you to play music underwater for 30 minutes, and it floats to the surface when released, making pool parties even more enjoyable. Moreover, if your recipient or their friends own other Ultimate Ears speakers, you can link up to 150 of them to synchronize music in one location.

This speaker delivers 360° sound and is made with a highly elastic material used in motorcycle jackets and firefighting gear. Ultimate Ears has conducted over 25 durability tests, ensuring it can withstand even the most energetic users.

The rechargeable battery provides up to 15 hours of playtime on a full charge. Power Up Dock for a seamless charging experience. For speaker options, explore our selection of portable speakers, shower speakers, or noise-canceling headphones.

Auraglow LED USB Wall or Tabletop Word Clock

Looking for a great gift under £25? Consider this unique clock from Auraglow. Instead of traditional numbers, this clock displays the time in 5-minute intervals. LEDs light up the relevant letters on a black panel to indicate the time.

The clock comes with a USB cable for connecting to various power sources, and you can add an adapter for more flexibility. It can be wall-mounted with a hanging slot or propped up on a desk or shelf thanks to its flat base.

If black isn’t your style, the clock is also available in copper. Explore our guides for the best wireless phone chargers, power banks, portable chargers, and charging stations for more useful tech ideas.

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Apexel 10-in-1 Cell Phone Camera Lens Kit

For Instagrammers, photographers, or selfie enthusiasts, a smartphone lens attachment is an ideal choice if you want to enhance your phone’s camera capabilities without investing in a new camera. This set, with 10 different lens attachments stored in a convenient pouch, is compatible with most smartphones and tablets, including iPhone, Samsung, Huawei, and Sony models.

The kit includes macro, wide-angle, and telephoto lenses, along with fun accessories like a fisheye lens, a star filter, a kaleidoscope attachment, and even a polarizing filter to reduce glare and reflections for sunny days.

Source: www.sciencefocus.com

New Xbox Games Showcase: Perfect Dark, Indiana Jones, and the Latest Gears of War Games

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Xbox has faced some challenges this year. Leaked announcements in January and February about games previously exclusive to Xbox coming to PlayStation and Nintendo Switch caused uproar among fans, leading to concerns about Microsoft’s commitment to Xbox exclusivity. However, only four games remained exclusive, as clarified by Xbox executives. In May, Xbox closed two popular studios, Tango Gameworks and Arkane Austin. Meanwhile, sales of Xbox Series X/S consoles have been slow, with analysts noting a significant increase in PlayStation 5 sales.

The Xbox Games Showcase aimed to turn the tide for Microsoft, featuring big-budget games like Call of Duty: Black Ops 6, a new Indiana Jones game, and the return of Gears of War. Microsoft’s Game Pass service, which offers a monthly library of games, received a $1 billion investment. Following the merger with Activision Blizzard, Microsoft now boasts a vast number of game studios.

Exclusive Xbox games showcased included Perfect Dark and State of Decay 3, among others. The event also featured trailers for upcoming games like Fable, STALKER: Shadow of Chernobyl, and Flight Simulator. The show ended with a reveal of Gears of War: E-Day, set against an alien invasion.

The showcase also featured independent games like Mixtape and FragPunk, offering a diverse range of gameplay experiences. Overall, the event was well-received by Xbox fans and provided a positive outlook for the company after a challenging year. Compared to PlayStation’s game lineup, Xbox’s offerings for 2024 and 2025 appear more robust.

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Source: www.theguardian.com

Achieving the Perfect Ratio of Omega-3 and Omega-6 Fatty Acids in Your Diet

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The advice is the same no matter where you look. If you want to reduce your risk of heart disease, obesity, cancer, and all sorts of other health problems, you should reduce butter and the “bad” saturated fats found in it. Red meat or processed meat. Instead, you should consume “good” polyunsaturated fats. This means cooking with vegetable oil and focusing on leafy vegetables, fatty fish, and nuts and seeds. Simple.

Nothing is ever simple, except in nutrition. In this case, the complication arises from the growing recognition that not all “good” fats are created equal. Specifically, while omega-3 fatty acids are certainly good for us, omega-6 fatty acids may actually be damaging to our health.

The idea that the balance of omega in the foods we eat can affect our health is well established. Additionally, while the typical Western diet has become increasingly high in omega-6s and low in omega-3s over the past 50 years, at the same time the incidence of diseases associated with excessive inflammation has skyrocketed. It is also clear that These include heart disease and type 2 diabetes.

All this has led to the argument that in addition to increasing the amount of omega-3 in the diet, we also need to reduce the intake of omega-6. But correlation is not causation. So can consuming too much omega-6, which has long been thought to be beneficial, really be bad for you? If so, what foods should I eat more or less of to optimize…

Source: www.newscientist.com

Find the perfect gift for your gamer in no time!

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2023 was an absolute year for gaming. Probably no one has played all the great titles released on various platforms. That certainly wasn’t the case. But it also means that you have options to get gifts for gamers in the last moments of life. We’ve rounded up some of the best titles of the type that someone happened to be putting off while playing the latest Final Fantasy or Call of Duty. Of course, I also tried to select multi-platform games other than Mario. So check what your giftee is playing and make the right choice. If you’re a nerd, or want to be one: Baldur’s Gate 3 Image credits: Larian Studio If you’re the type of gamer who carries dice everywhere, plays complex card and tabletop games, and jokes about “critical failures,” get Baldur’s Gate 3 if you don’t already have it please. Currently available on PC, Xbox, and PlayStation, this most epic RPG is winning award after award and is even better than when it was released. It’s been a long time since it was released, so there’s a good chance you already have it, but I’m sure there are many people who have been waiting for it to be released. that’s what I have now. Their hesitation is a gift from you. If you like a challenge: P’s Lies Image credits: Neowiz game If you’re a gamer who loves difficult games or says that today’s games involve too much hand-holding, get Lies of P. You wouldn’t expect a Pinocchio-themed game to be one of the best Souls-like (Dark Souls-type imitators have been called out for years, but somehow that’s exactly what happened. The game has a dark and original story and setting, and a long and satisfying campaign with lots of secrets, weapons, obscure gameplay elements, and of course incredibly difficult bosses. It’s a good idea to buy a spare controller in case your controller breaks in half. For ages 35 and older: Super Mario RPG Image credits: Nintendo If you’re a nostalgic gamer (as we gamers “of a certain age” often are), then pick up Nintendo’s latest nostalgic fodder, a remake of Super Mario RPG. This remake is more of a remaster of the popular Super Famicom game, with the same story and gameplay elements but updated graphics and controls for the modern era. This is another game that a lot of people will probably hold off on buying because there are so many great games out there right now, but they’ll be happy to receive it. If you are over 35 years old and want to talk about the anime Star Ocean Second Story R Image credits: square Enix This is another nostalgic hit, but for those who don’t mind if the medium leans a bit towards anime (or those who don’t own a Switch). Star Ocean 2 is one of his biggest and best works of his 16-bit era and received a masterpiece remake using a stunning “2D-3D” art style. Some people find it a little strange to pay full price for an older game like Super Mario RPG, but if you get it as a gift, you can play it without worrying. He doesn’t have to be over 35 to enjoy these games, but it probably helps. (PC, PlayStation, Xbox) If you have a friend you often play with: Remnant II Image credits: gunfire game Does your gamer have a buddy to play with? Get Remnant II. One of his surprise hits this year, Remnant II is a fantasy/sci-fi shooter built from the ground up for co-op play. The environments and enemies are truly imaginative and bizarre, the gameplay is tough, varied, and fair, and the procedural generation makes every playthrough slightly different. If you want to play to the fullest, no matter what platform you play on, buy the 2-pack. If you like original and artistic things: Jusant Image credits: please don’t nod If your gamers always talk about indie games and movies and seem to value originality over other aspects, buy Jusant. This extremely gorgeous and completely original game was released pretty quietly, probably because people didn’t know what to make of it. You play the role of an unnamed protagonist who climbs up the mountain holding hands using ropes and other tools. As you explore, you learn about the seemingly endless stone towers studded with the ruins of civilization. It’s gorgeous, completely unique, and even super fun to play. If you played 700 hours of Stardew Valley: Roots of Pacha or Moonstone Island. Image credits: soda den Like many who played it, I searched hard for a game that even came close to the standard Stardew Valley set in the “life sim” field. And the closest we’ve come is Roots of Pacha. This brand new game is set in the Stone Age and basically puts you as a young man in a cave helping your tribe discover everything from improving crops to livestock to almond milk. Charming, very spacious and very quiet. It also has multiplayer built in if you prefer. Image credits: studio super soft Or check out Moonstone Island, which combines the town and farming sim parts of Stardew with exploration and Pokemon-like combat. Also includes deck building components and procedural generation. Sure, there are a lot of trends at once, but everything blends together very well and is fun from start to finish. It’s quite a good deal for the money.

Source: techcrunch.com