Meta is reportedly working on an issue with a software update that bricked some Quest 2, Quest 3 and Quest 3S headsets, the company announced. The company originally upset customers by not only releasing a faulty update, but then telling buyers affected that they wouldn’t address the problem because the headsets were out of warranty, as The Verge reported.
Now, Meta appears to be making good on the issue, saying it’s working on a fix “for all users” and said customer support has “new directions on how to support users.” Some buyers said on Reddit that they received an email confirmation that the company would provide out-of-warranty service for its mistake.
“We’ve discovered a software update issue that caused some Quest 2/3/3S headsets to be unresponsive and unable to start up correctly” Meta wrote in its help center. “We are actively working on resolving the issue for all users, but in most cases, you are now able to use your device normally. If you have a device that is still unresponsive, we’re here to help. If you have a Quest 3S, click the button below for next steps. Quest 2 or 3 users, please reach out to us to get support.”
The problem date back to December 6th, when Meta said software updates were effecting Quest 3S devices at the time. The update includes features like a virtual desktop, faster hand tracking, easier pairing with Windows 11 PCs and more.
This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/ar-vr/meta-is-working-on-a-fix-for-a-software-update-that-bricked-quest-headsets-140025378.html?src=rss
LG just unveiled its latest microwave ahead of CES 2025. The LG Signature model features a 27-inch FHD display. We can finally watch stuff during the 90 seconds it takes popcorn to pop. Let us never be without screens!
This is a touchscreen display that’s being described as “an immersive entertainment experience right in the kitchen.” The microwave also connects to Wi-Fi, for streaming content, and has built-in speakers. We don’t know what OS it runs on or if it can access every streaming platform out there. Traditional LG smart TVs run webOS, so maybe the same is true here.
The company has also remained mum as to whether this screen is ad-supported or not. Putting a bunch of ads right in the kitchen sure sounds like something a boardroom of execs would salivate over. LG already shows full-screen ads on many of its televisions when they are idle.
The touchscreen does integrate with LG’s ThinQ Smart Home Dashboard, which allows control over compatible Matter and Thread devices. It can also pair with the company’s induction range oven to display cooking progress metrics, thus “eliminating the need to bend down and check the oven manually.” What a scourge, all of that bending down.
LG hasn’t revealed pricing or availability for this snazzy new appliance. It’s likely we’ll learn more when CES 2025 starts in earnest on January 7. We’ll be there and will report back as to what it feels like to watch Arcane while standing in front a microwave.
LG
The company is in love with screens right now. It also announced a new refrigerator with an OLED display and a washer/dryer with an LCD. I’m all for increased entertainment options but, uh, what happens when those displays break? It seems like buttons and knobs would be easier to repair or replace than a giant touchscreen.
This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/home/kitchen-tech/lg-slapped-a-27-inch-touchscreen-on-its-latest-microwave-162736550.html?src=rss
Daisy, an AI-powered virtual grandmother developed by Virgin Media’s O2, is revolutionizing phone scam prevention by wasting scammers’ time while protecting potential victims. Designed to mimic a polite, slightly forgetful elderly woman, Daisy engages scammers in long-winded conversations, effectively neutralizing their schemes. Her advanced natural language processing and humor-filled demeanor turn the tables on those who prey on the vulnerable, particularly older adults.
As noticed by Forbes, in an instance Daisy was able to keep the scammer on the line for over an hour, steering the conversation into tangents about her cats, family stories, and repeated questions. By the end, the scammer was audibly frustrated, realizing they had been outmaneuvered by an AI. This approach not only wastes scammers’ time but also disrupts their efficiency, reducing the number of potential victims they can target.
Developed in collaboration with scam-hunting expert Jim Browning, Daisy’s key features include:
Realistic Conversations: Advanced AI enables Daisy to respond convincingly to scammers’ scripts.
Scripted Detours: She redirects calls into humorous anecdotes and requests for repetition, keeping scammers engaged.
Unshakable Calm: Daisy’s polite demeanor neutralizes fear-driven tactics often used by scammers.
Phone scams, which often exploit fear and confusion, disproportionately target older adults. Daisy’s calm persistence derails these tactics, turning each call into a dead end for scammers. While her efforts may not solve fraud entirely, they represent a step forward in leveraging technology to fight scams.
Daisy’s success showcases the potential of AI in fraud prevention, delivering both justice and satisfaction to those affected by scams. By offering scammers a maddening but fruitless encounter, Daisy highlights how technology can protect the vulnerable and strike back against fraudulent operations.
Squid Game has set a new high for Netflix’s television programming. Variety reported that the second season of the Korean show drew in 68 million views over its first four days. That’s the biggest debut for a TV show on the streaming platform, besting the 50.1 million set by Wednesday in 2022. The first season of Squid Game also held the crown as the top-watched Netflix series for a while; 142 million households had watched it as of October 2021. The third and final season could deliver a hat trick of record results for the company when it airs next year.
This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/entertainment/streaming/squid-games-second-season-is-officially-netflixs-biggest-tv-debut-205113266.html?src=rss
LG Electronics unveiled the UltraGear GX9 series, a groundbreaking lineup of OLED gaming monitors, at CES 2025. The centerpiece, the 45GX990A, secured three CES Innovation Awards, including the prestigious ‘Best of Innovation.’ This recognition highlights LG’s commitment to innovation and premium gaming solutions.
The GX9 series features advanced WOLED curved displays offering 5K2K resolution (5,120 x 2,160) with a 21:9 aspect ratio, delivering immersive visuals with true blacks, vivid colors, and optimized curvature. Certified for low blue light emissions and equipped with LG’s Anti-Glare & Low Reflection coating, these monitors ensure comfortable, eye-friendly gaming sessions.
The 45GX990A stands out as the world’s first bendable 5K2K OLED gaming monitor. Its 45-inch display transitions from flat to a 900R curvature, providing customizable immersion. It features LG’s second-generation Dual-Mode, enabling eight preset configurations for resolution, refresh rate, and aspect ratio, catering to diverse gaming genres. With a 0.03ms response time and support for NVIDIA G-SYNC and AMD FreeSync Premium Pro, it ensures smooth and responsive gameplay.
Another notable model, the 45GX950A, offers an 800R curvature with the same 5K2K resolution. Its high pixel density and RGWB subpixel layout enhance text readability and productivity, while its virtually borderless design adds a sleek aesthetic. Supporting DisplayPort 2.1, HDMI 2.1, and USB-C with 90W power delivery, it guarantees compatibility with modern graphics cards and devices.
The lineup also includes the LG UltraGear 39GX90SA, a smart gaming monitor powered by webOS. This 39-inch display serves as an all-in-one entertainment hub, featuring vibrant visuals and ergonomic design.
The Apple Watch Series 10 is down to its Black Friday price. You can pick one up for $329 via Amazon, which is a discount of $70 and nearly 20 percent off. Even better? This deal is available for multiple band colors, including jet black, rose gold and more.
This is the company’s latest and greatest smartwatch and it easily topped our list of the best Apple wearables. It’s thinner and lighter than the Series 9, which is something that we were impressed by in our official review. We also appreciated the larger wide-angle OLED display, which makes some things easier to read. This is particularly useful when trying to navigate via Maps.
There’s a brand-new depth gauge, for snorkeling and swimming, and sensors that support sleep apnea detection. The speakers are even much-improved over previous generations, so the Apple Watch Series 10 is a decent option for checking out a podcast. It’s just a watch, however, so we can’t recommend using the speakers for extended listening. Other people will hear you and music will sound tinny and dull.
The battery life still maxes out at 18 hours. This is somewhat annoying, but the Series 10 can get to 80 percent in just 90 minutes by using a fast-charge-certified charger. That means you just have to find an hour or so to plug it in toward the end of the day if you want to track sleep.
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This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/deals/the-apple-watch-series-10-is-back-down-to-its-black-friday-price-173850202.html?src=rss
Aside from the global shutter on Sony’s A9 III and some cool mirrorless options — the Fujifilm X100 VI, Panasonic S9 and Canon EOS R5 II come to mind — 2024 was a dull year for cameras full of small tweaks and minor improvements. Except for DJI’s Neo. For $200, aerial photography is now finally in reach for just about anyone.
DJI’s very good, not-so-great year
DJI released its product lineup this year with a sword of Damocles hanging over its head: the US government was planning to ban sales of the company’s products by the end of 2024 over potential fears of spying. It was only at the last minute that DJI gained a reprieve, thanks in large part to lobbying by public safety groups that heavily rely on its drones. It now has until the end of 2025 to prove that its products don’t pose a risk.
The company’s list of 2024 camera gear started with the Avata 2, an FPV drone that improved nearly everything from the popular original at a reduced price. DJI then announced it the $299 Mini 4K. We also saw the Action 5 Pro, DJI’s best action cam to date, along with the Air 3S, a highly capable drone with a relatively large 1-inch sensor camera and the Mic Mini, an affordable wireless mic system.
Its biggest launch, though, was the Neo drone, announced in September. It took the idea of a simple drone for creators, first pioneered (then dropped) by Snap with the Pixy, while lowering the price and adding AI technology.
Steve Dent for Engadget
The Neo is a very lightweight drone that can be piloted without a license and is people-safe thanks to its shrouded propellers. It’s ready to use for beginners straight out of the box without any training — simply place it in your hand and press a button, then it’ll fly off and capture cool programmed shots like “dronies”.
Just because the Neo is approachable doesn’t mean it’s basic, though. If you want to pilot the Neo manually, it supports DJI’s controllers, FPV goggles and can even be flown using a smartphone. It can hit speeds up to 18 MPH or even faster in manual mode, and is highly maneuverable. Thanks to the built-in AI features, it can track you while you walk or bike, making it a vlogger’s best friend. Finally, it can capture all your footage at 4K 30p, with surprisingly good quality considering the price point.
My main sore point with the Neo is the banshee-like noise it generates, which can be tricky in public places. Overall, though, it’s a highly useful product at a great price point and managed to capture the zeitgeist like no other camera product this year.
Canon and Fujifilm were the best of the rest
My favorite mirrorless camera this year was Canon’s EOS R5 II. That’s not because of any spectacular new tech, but the fact that it’s nearly a perfect hybrid camera.
Steve Dent for Engadget
That starts with the new 45-megapixel stacked sensor that offers a blend of speed and resolution we’ve only ever seen on the Sony’s A1 or the Nikon Z9 — both considerably more expensive. It also has the company’s most advanced AI autofocus system. All that allows ultra-fast shooting speeds up to 30fps in RAW mode. Its advanced AF system makes blurry photos a rarity even at those speeds. At the same time, the 45-megapixel photos deliver exceptional detail and relatively high dynamic range, with accurate, pleasing colors.
At the same time, it offers incredible video powers, with 8K RAW shooting at up to 60fps and 4K 120p. As with photos, video quality is exceptional thanks to the new CLog 2 capture that allows for higher dynamic range. Beyond all that, the EOS R5 II is just a great camera to use, with near-perfect ergonomics.
The other camera I really enjoyed using was Fujifilm’s X100 VI compact. The camera deserved the large amount of press it received this year, because its stripped down nature, vintage looks, film simulations and great handling really bring fun back to photography. At the same time, it’s a technological marvel with a higher-resolution 40-megapixel sensor, decently fast shooting speeds, stabilization and solid video specs.
Finally, I think Panasonic’s S9 deserves a shoutout for trying something new. It’s one of the smallest full-frame cameras I’ve ever seen, yet offers features like 6K video and in-body stabilization. But the primary new trick is built-in LUT simulations— kind of like Fujifilm’s X100 VI, but for video. That, combined with the large sensor, makes it an interesting camera.
What to expect in the camera world for 2025
Steve Dent for Engadget
Despite a potential US ban, DJI is likely to continue its ambitious product release schedule in 2025. According to rumors, it’s working on a foldable model called the DJI Flip and is also likely to release a successor to the Mavic 3 Pro sometime next year, according to recent FCC filings. Apart from that, it tends to have rapid upgrade cadence for most of its drones and cameras, so expect to see successors for its Action 5 Pro cam, Mini 4 Pro drone and other models.
Elsewhere, one intriguing rumor has Fujifilm releasing a one-inch, half-sensor compact that would be like a digital version of the popular Pentax 17 film camera and may even allow for diptych (side-by-side) photos.
Otherwise, Sony is due to release an update for its popular A7 IV launched in 2021 with higher shooting speeds and other specs to better line up with the competition. Canon is very likely to release a new camera in that same price category, the R6 III, also with improved specs. We could see a new Nikon Z5 III model with improved performance. And Panasonic is due to refresh its S1 and S1R models. Manufacturers may jump on the compact train, now that Fujifilm has proved its a viable category — something that would be good news for all photographers.
This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/cameras/in-2024-the-camera-of-the-year-was-a-drone-185108008.html?src=rss
LG Electronics introduced its second-generation LG SIGNATURE lineup at CES 2025 under the theme Live Beyond. This expanded ultra-premium range integrates cutting-edge technology with sophisticated design to elevate usability, connectivity, and the smart home experience.
The lineup includes innovative kitchen appliances such as the LG SIGNATURE French Door Refrigerator with a transparent T-OLED display. This dual-purpose panel serves as a digital interface and InstaView window, allowing users to view contents without opening the door.
Equipped with AI-driven ThinQ Food management, the refrigerator recognizes stored items, suggests recipes, and tracks inventory, transforming food management and meal planning. The LG SIGNATURE Over-the-Range Microwave features real-time cooking monitoring via built-in cameras and a 27-inch Full-HD touchscreen, while the Slide-in Double Oven Induction Range uses Gourmet AI for ingredient recognition and recipe suggestions.
The LG SIGNATURE Dishwasher combines advanced technologies like QuadWash Pro and Dynamic Heat Dry with a sleek, flush design. Its pop-out handle activates automatically for ease of use, blending style with functionality.
In laundry care, the lineup includes the LG SIGNATURE Washer & Dryer and a 29-inch washer-dryer pair. Featuring AI Direct Drive 2.0 and low-temperature inverter heat pump drying, these models ensure precise fabric care. Integrated 7-inch LCD touchscreens simplify control.
At CES 2025, LG showcased these products in lifestyle-inspired settings designed in collaboration with Italian furniture brand Molteni&C. Visitors explored the AI-powered ThinQ ON home hub, demonstrating seamless connectivity between LG and compatible smart devices.
Lyu Jae-cheol, president of LG Home Appliance Solution Company, emphasized the series’ fusion of luxury, smart technology, and connectivity, promising transformative experiences. The LG SIGNATURE lineup sets a new standard for premium, connected living.
Aside from the global shutter on Sony’s A9 III and some cool mirrorless options — the Fujifilm X100 VI, Panasonic S9 and Canon EOS R5 II come to mind — 2024 was a dull year for cameras full of small tweaks and minor improvements. Except for DJI’s Neo. For $200, aerial photography is now finally in reach for just about anyone.
DJI’s very good, not-so-great year
DJI released its product lineup this year with a sword of Damocles hanging over its head: the US government was planning to ban sales of the company’s products by the end of 2024 over potential fears of spying. It was only at the last minute that DJI gained a reprieve, thanks in large part to lobbying by public safety groups that heavily rely on its drones. It now has until the end of 2025 to prove that its products don’t pose a risk.
The company’s list of 2024 camera gear started with the Avata 2, an FPV drone that improved nearly everything from the popular original at a reduced price. DJI then announced it the $299 Mini 4K. We also saw the Action 5 Pro, DJI’s best action cam to date, along with the Air 3S, a highly capable drone with a relatively large 1-inch sensor camera and the Mic Mini, an affordable wireless mic system.
Its biggest launch, though, was the Neo drone, announced in September. It took the idea of a simple drone for creators, first pioneered (then dropped) by Snap with the Pixy, while lowering the price and adding AI technology.
Steve Dent for Engadget
The Neo is a very lightweight drone that can be piloted without a license and is people-safe thanks to its shrouded propellers. It’s ready to use for beginners straight out of the box without any training — simply place it in your hand and press a button, then it’ll fly off and capture cool programmed shots like “dronies”.
Just because the Neo is approachable doesn’t mean it’s basic, though. If you want to pilot the Neo manually, it supports DJI’s controllers, FPV goggles and can even be flown using a smartphone. It can hit speeds up to 18 MPH or even faster in manual mode, and is highly maneuverable. Thanks to the built-in AI features, it can track you while you walk or bike, making it a vlogger’s best friend. Finally, it can capture all your footage at 4K 30p, with surprisingly good quality considering the price point.
My main sore point with the Neo is the banshee-like noise it generates, which can be tricky in public places. Overall, though, it’s a highly useful product at a great price point and managed to capture the zeitgeist like no other camera product this year.
Canon and Fujifilm were the best of the rest
My favorite mirrorless camera this year was Canon’s EOS R5 II. That’s not because of any spectacular new tech, but the fact that it’s nearly a perfect hybrid camera.
Steve Dent for Engadget
That starts with the new 45-megapixel stacked sensor that offers a blend of speed and resolution we’ve only ever seen on the Sony’s A1 or the Nikon Z9 — both considerably more expensive. It also has the company’s most advanced AI autofocus system. All that allows ultra-fast shooting speeds up to 30fps in RAW mode. Its advanced AF system makes blurry photos a rarity even at those speeds. At the same time, the 45-megapixel photos deliver exceptional detail and relatively high dynamic range, with accurate, pleasing colors.
At the same time, it offers incredible video powers, with 8K RAW shooting at up to 60fps and 4K 120p. As with photos, video quality is exceptional thanks to the new CLog 2 capture that allows for higher dynamic range. Beyond all that, the EOS R5 II is just a great camera to use, with near-perfect ergonomics.
The other camera I really enjoyed using was Fujifilm’s X100 VI compact. The camera deserved the large amount of press it received this year, because its stripped down nature, vintage looks, film simulations and great handling really bring fun back to photography. At the same time, it’s a technological marvel with a higher-resolution 40-megapixel sensor, decently fast shooting speeds, stabilization and solid video specs.
Finally, I think Panasonic’s S9 deserves a shoutout for trying something new. It’s one of the smallest full-frame cameras I’ve ever seen, yet offers features like 6K video and in-body stabilization. But the primary new trick is built-in LUT simulations— kind of like Fujifilm’s X100 VI, but for video. That, combined with the large sensor, makes it an interesting camera.
What to expect in the camera world for 2025
Steve Dent for Engadget
Despite a potential US ban, DJI is likely to continue its ambitious product release schedule in 2025. According to rumors, it’s working on a foldable model called the DJI Flip and is also likely to release a successor to the Mavic 3 Pro sometime next year, according to recent FCC filings. Apart from that, it tends to have rapid upgrade cadence for most of its drones and cameras, so expect to see successors for its Action 5 Pro cam, Mini 4 Pro drone and other models.
Elsewhere, one intriguing rumor has Fujifilm releasing a one-inch, half-sensor compact that would be like a digital version of the popular Pentax 17 film camera and may even allow for diptych (side-by-side) photos.
Otherwise, Sony is due to release an update for its popular A7 IV launched in 2021 with higher shooting speeds and other specs to better line up with the competition. Canon is very likely to release a new camera in that same price category, the R6 III, also with improved specs. We could see a new Nikon Z5 III model with improved performance. And Panasonic is due to refresh its S1 and S1R models. Manufacturers may jump on the compact train, now that Fujifilm has proved its a viable category — something that would be good news for all photographers.
This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/cameras/in-2024-the-camera-of-the-year-was-a-drone-185108008.html?src=rss
LG Electronics is set to debut its 2025 LG gram laptop lineup at CES 2025, showcasing the brand’s first integration of on-device AI. The range includes models such as the gram Pro, gram Pro 2-in-1, and the budget-friendly gram Book, all designed to deliver a smarter and more personalized user experience while retaining the series’ iconic lightweight design.
The standout feature is LG’s hybrid AI solution, combining local processing via gram chat On-Device with cloud-based services through gram chat Cloud. The On-Device AI leverages LG’s EXAONE language model for secure, offline functionalities like the Time Travel feature, which streamlines revisiting previous content.
Meanwhile, gram chat Cloud, powered by GPT-4o, offers expansive web-based insights and productivity tools, integrating seamlessly with personal calendars and email. A complimentary one-year subscription to the cloud service enhances accessibility.
The laptops are powered by Intel’s next-generation processors, including the Arrow Lake-based Intel Core Ultra H-Series and Lunar Lake-based V-Series CPUs. The H-Series focuses on core PC performance, while the V-Series enhances AI-driven capabilities, such as real-time video subtitle translation and AI image generation.
Highlights of the lineup include the LG gram Pro 17Z90TR, which pairs an Arrow Lake processor with an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4050 GPU for demanding tasks like 3D rendering and gaming. The CES-awarded gram Pro 2-in-1 16T90TP features a flexible design with a wireless stylus pen. Additionally, the gram Book offers a budget-friendly option with a 15.6-inch Full HD display and lightweight build.
All models incorporate gram Link 2.0, enabling seamless device integration across platforms. According to YS Lee, LG aims to enhance productivity and creativity through advanced AI-driven solutions, ensuring users can achieve more with greater convenience. They may not be as “fancy” as LG’s transparent OLED TV, but definitely will bring a more affordable price tag. While we have no info about prices yet, they should be revealed soon.
Specifications
LG gram Pro 2-in-1 (16T90TP)
LG gram Pro (17Z90TR)
LG gram Pro (16Z90TS)
LG gram Book (15U50T)
Display Size
16-inch
17-inch
16-inch
15.6-inch
Display
WQXGA+ (2,880 x 1,800) OLED
WQXGA (2,560 x 1,600) LCD
WQXGA (2,560 x 1,600) LCD
FHD (1,920 x 1,080) LCD
Brightness (Typ.)
OLED: 400nit LCD: 400nit
400nit
400nit
300nit
Refresh Rate
OLED: 48-120Hz (VRR) LCD: 31-144Hz (VRR)
31-144Hz (VRR)
31-144Hz (VRR)
60Hz
Weight
3.08 lb (1,399g)
3.26 lb (1,479g)
2.73 lb (1,239g)
3.74 lb (1,700g)
Size
357.3 x 253.8 x 12.4 ~ 12.9mm
379.4 x 265.4 x 14.4 ~ 15.8mm
357.7 x 251.6 x 12.4 ~ 12.8mm
359.8 x 237.8 x 18.9 ~ 19.4mm
Battery
77Wh
90Wh
77Wh
51Wh
Thermal
Mega dual cooling system
Fan cooling system
Fan cooling system
Fan cooling system
CPU
Intel Core Ultra 7 / Ultra 5 processor
Intel Core Ultra 9 / Ultra 7 processor
Intel Core Ultra 5 processor
Intel Core i5 processor
GPU
Intel Arc graphics
NVIDIA RTX4050 with GDDR6 6GB
Intel Arc graphics
Intel Xe graphics
Memory
Max 32GB (LPDDR5X, Dual Channel)
Max 32GB (LPDDR5X, Dual Channel)
8 / 16GB DDR4 (Dual Channel)
8GB DDR4 (Single Channel)
Storage
Dual SSD (M.2) 512GB / 1TB / 2TB (Gen4 NVMe™)
1TB / 512GB / 256GB (NVMe)
512GB (NVMe)
256GB (NVMe)
Audio
HD Audio with Dolby Atmos
HD Audio with Dolby Atmos
HD Audio with Dolby Atmos
HD Audio with Dolby Atmos
Speakers
Stereo Speaker (3.0W x2), Smart AMP (MAX 5W x2)
Stereo Speaker (3.0W x4), Smart AMP (MAX)
Stereo Speaker (3.0W x2), Smart AMP (MAX 5W x2)
Stereo Speaker (1.5W x2)
I/O Ports
2x USB 3.2 Gen2 2x USB 4 Gen3x2 Type C HDMI 2.1 (4K@60Hz)
2x USB 3.2 Gen2x1, HDMI 2.1 (4K@60Hz)
2x USB 3.2 Gen2x1, HDMI 2.1 (4K@60Hz)
1x USB 3.2 GEN1x1, 1x USB 2.0
Software
LG gram Chat, LG gram Link, LG Glance by Mirametrix
LG gram Chat, LG gram Link
LG gram Chat, LG gram Link
LG gram Link
Webcam
FHD Webcam + IR Camera with Dual Mic. (Face-Recognition)
FHD Webcam + IR Camera with Dual Mic. (Face-Recognition)
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