theverge--2020-07-02--Twitch appears to ban SayNoToRage after harassment allegations

Twitch appears to have banned SayNoToRage , a popular Destiny streamer , after several women said that he harassed them or touched them without consent .
Their stories played a large role in kicking off the recent wave of harassment and assault allegations from Twitch streamers and other members of the gaming industry .
Twitch said last week that it would take the allegations seriously and issue permanent bans in some cases .
SayNoToRage has denied the allegations .
The Twitch page for SayNoToRage disappeared Thursday afternoon , suggesting he had been banned .
A second streamer , Papa_Chau , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ against him more than a year ago , appears to have been banned this afternoon , too .
Twitch said it would begin issuing permanent bans as it looked into the allegations Twitch declined to comment or confirm the bans .
A spokesperson referred The Verge to a blog post issued last week , in which the company said it was reviewing allegations “ as quickly as possible ” and would “ begin issuing permanent suspensions in line with our findings immediately.
” SayNoToRage initially issued an apology , saying “ the things @ @ @ @ @ @ @ morning , he followed up with an hourlong video claiming the allegations were “ false , embellished , and some completely fabricated.
” The Verge has reached out to SayNoToRage for comment .
This is the latest in a series of high-profile bans — or likely bans — from Twitch .
The service appeared to suspend Dr Disrespect , one of its most popular streamers , last week ( though it has yet to confirm that ban ) , and on Monday , the service temporarily banned President Trump for remarks made during @ @ @ @ @ @ @ were banned last week following the allegations , Polygon reported .

Twitch has banned SayNoToRage, a popular Destiny streamer, after several women said that he harassed them or touched them without consent.
Their stories played a large role in kicking off the recent wave of harassment and assault allegations from Twitch streamers and other members of the gaming industry. Twitch said last week that it would take the allegations seriously and issue permanent bans in some cases. SayNoToRage has denied the allegations.
The Twitch page for SayNoToRage disappeared Thursday afternoon, suggesting he had been banned. A second streamer, Papa_Chau, who had allegations of emotional abuse made against him more than a year ago, appears to have been banned this afternoon, too.
Twitch said it would begin issuing permanent bans as it looked into the allegations
Twitch declined to comment or confirm the bans. A spokesperson referred The Verge to a blog post issued last week, in which the company said it was reviewing allegations “as quickly as possible” and would “begin issuing permanent suspensions in line with our findings immediately.”
In a video posted Friday, SayNoToRage confirmed that he had been “suspended” by Twitch. He said he was looking into filing an appeal.
SayNoToRage initially issued an apology after the accusations came out, saying “the things that I did were unacceptable.” On Thursday morning, he followed up with an hourlong video claiming the allegations were “false, embellished, and some completely fabricated.” The Verge has reached out to SayNoToRage for comment.
This is the latest in a series of high-profile bans — or likely bans — from Twitch. The service appeared to suspend Dr Disrespect, one of its most popular streamers, last week (though it has yet to confirm that ban), and on Monday, the service temporarily banned President Trump for remarks made during a recent rally.
Several smaller streamers were banned last week following the allegations, Polygon reported.


theverge--2020-07-02--Away says co-CEO Steph Korey will step down this year after her attacks on the media

Steph Korey , the co-CEO of luggage company Away , will be stepping down from her role within the year , co-founder Jen Rubio and co-CEO Stuart Haselden told staff today , after employees voiced concern over Korey ’ s recent social media behavior .
“ Steph ’ s personal social media activity does not reflect the current priorities of the company , ” Rubio and Haselden wrote .
“ We stand with you , our employees.
” The news follows Korey leaving the CEO post last year , and returning as co-CEO in early January .
Korey initially stepped @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in December of 2019 , which highlighted employee concerns over Korey ’ s management style .
Employees on the customer experience team felt particularly overworked and undervalued , and took issue with the way Korey spoke to them .
In one colorful anecdote , Korey told a group of customer experience employees she was going to stop approving their paid time off and work from home requests , to teach them the “ skill of accountability.
” After The Verge ’ s piece published in December , Korey stepped down as CEO , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ she ’ d said , and adding : “ I can imagine how people felt reading those messages from the past , because I was appalled to read them myself.
” But she came back as co-CEO in January , telling the New York Times it was a “ mistake to fall on her sword.
” Earlier this week , Korey posted a series of Instagram stories about the media .
“ Several of these digital only outlets have nearly non-existent editorial standards , ” she wrote .
“ ...
I could write @ @ @ @ @ @ @ lawsuits should be made easier to pursue now that misrepresentation is the business model.
” “ Steph ’ s personal social media activity does not reflect the current priorities of the company.
” The posts rankled some workers , who found that her decision to write about the media in the midst of her maternity leave , rather than Black Lives Matter or Pride , reflected poorly on the brand .
“ Why is this the moment she chose to be present and speak up ?
” they asked .
“ It ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s because Steph Korey values her own reputation over the wellbeing of the company and her employees.
” Employees shared these sentiments in an anonymous letter to Rubio and Haselden .
While Rubio and Haselden have been running the company in Korey ’ s absence , employees voiced concern about what will happen when she returns .
“ Her own actions ( including deleting the only apology she ever made following The Verge article ) prove that she has not learned or grown from the December incident , ” they wrote .
“ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and empathetic leaders who care about the company and its employees .
Based on her recent activity , we are anxious and worried about what life at Away will be like when she returns.
” On Thursday , Rubio and Haselden responded to the letter .
“ Steph ’ s posts do not reflect or affect our current company priorities and the deep work we ’ re doing around diversity , equity , and inclusion , ” they wrote .
“ We hear you that these posts , coming from a co-CEO , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , and we are sorry that this has caused pain for some of our employees and placed unnecessary negativity and pressure on our community-facing teams .
We especially recognize the added emotional burden on our Black , POC , and LGBTQIA+ teammates.
” “ It ’ s becoming very clear that it ’ s because Steph Korey values her own reputation over the wellbeing of the company and her employees.
” They also told employees that Haselden would be taking over as sole CEO in 2020 — a timeline that had not previously @ @ @ @ @ @ @ her own note in Slack .
She did not apologize for her posts , though she said that how female founders are being covered in the media is “ far from being the most important issue ” on her mind .
One current employee who has been with the company for years told The Verge : “ There is a common feeling that she got off easy in December [ ... ] without having to take accountability .
If she does n't address these issues directly , people will be pissed.
” The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ comment ; this story will be updated when the company responds .
The full letter from Haselden and Rubio to Away staff is below : This note is clearly from people who care about the company and we want to thank you for your courage in sharing your thoughts .
Steph ’ s posts do not reflect or affect our current company priorities and the deep work we ’ re doing around diversity , equity , and inclusion .
We hear you that these posts , coming from a co-CEO , distract from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we are sorry that this has caused pain for some of our employees and placed unnecessary negativity and pressure on our community-facing teams .
We especially recognize the added emotional burden on our Black , POC , and LGBTQIA+ teammates .
There is nothing we are doing that is more important right now than building and executing our DEI plan to become an anti-racist company .
We want to let you know we can create whatever safe space you need to come forward and speak , in person , with any member of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Of course , we also respect your wish to remain anonymous—we hear you and appreciate you .
In response to your asks : 1 .
We want to emphatically state : We stand with you , our employees .
Steph ’ s personal social media activity does not reflect the current priorities of the company .
2 .
Steph will return from maternity leave in August , and will be contributing to the company in the same capacity as before maternity leave .
Stuart will take on the role of sole CEO @ @ @ @ @ @ @ timeline ( within 2020 ) .
3 .
Steph has updated her Twitter and Instagram profiles to state that her views are her own .
Again , thank you for sending this note—we know the fortitude it took to write and we want to reiterate our commitment to create a safe space for you to share your concerns .
We promise to continue to work to make Away a great place to work for everyone .

Hi,
This note is clearly from people who care about the company and we want to thank you for your courage in sharing your thoughts.
Steph’s posts do not reflect or affect our current company priorities and the deep work we’re doing around diversity, equity, and inclusion. We hear you that these posts, coming from a co-CEO, distract from our focus as a company, and we are sorry that this has caused pain for some of our employees and placed unnecessary negativity and pressure on our community-facing teams. We especially recognize the added emotional burden on our Black, POC, and LGBTQIA+ teammates. There is nothing we are doing that is more important right now than building and executing our DEI plan to become an anti-racist company.
We want to let you know we can create whatever safe space you need to come forward and speak, in person, with any member of leadership or the People & Culture team. Of course, we also respect your wish to remain anonymous—we hear you and appreciate you.
In response to your asks:
1. We want to emphatically state: We stand with you, our employees. Steph’s personal social media activity does not reflect the current priorities of the company.
2. Steph will return from maternity leave in August, and will be contributing to the company in the same capacity as before maternity leave. Stuart will take on the role of sole CEO, which will occur on the original timeline (within 2020).
3. Steph has updated her Twitter and Instagram profiles to state that her views are her own.
Again, thank you for sending this note—we know the fortitude it took to write and we want to reiterate our commitment to create a safe space for you to share your concerns. We promise to continue to work to make Away a great place to work for everyone.
Thank you,
Jen and Stuart


theverge--2020-07-02--Here are the best AirPods deals

Here are the best AirPods deals

Apple ’ s AirPods are among the most popular headphones on the market .
They ’ re compact , easy to pair with your devices , and they offer reliable connectivity , which can sometimes be a problem with truly wireless earphones .
So there ’ s a chance that you might be looking for a deal on them .
Surprisingly , they ’ re no stranger to the occasional price cut — even the more expensive AirPods Pro that offer noise cancellation and better sound than the standard second-generation model is commonly around $ 20 off its usual price @ @ @ @ @ @ @ three of the current models below , including the second-generation AirPods , the more expensive second-generation AirPods that include a wireless charging case , and finally , the AirPods Pro .
You can currently find the best price on Apple ’ s most affordable AirPods at several retailers , like Best Buy , Amazon , B & H Photo , Target , and Walmart .
Normally $ 159 , they ’ re $ 139 .
For context , we haven ’ t seen them fall in price below $ 129 , so this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ invest .
An assortment of retailers is offering a $ 30 discount on Apple ’ s AirPods that include a Qi-ready wireless charging case .
You ’ ll need to provide your own wireless charging pad to take advantage of this model ’ s key feature ( if you have no use for it , just get the more affordable option above ) , but even the best ones are fairly inexpensive .
These normally cost $ 199 , but you can score them for $ 169 at Best Buy , Amazon , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s high-end truly wireless earbuds , the AirPods Pro , are frequently available for less than their $ 249 retail price .
At a few retailers , that price drop is only $ 15 , but right now , you can find them for a little more than $ 20 off at Google Shopping .
Historical pricing data indicates that there hasn ’ t been much fluctuation in price for this model , though it ’ s possible that we ’ ll see perhaps another $ 10 off at some point this year @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the AirPods Pro have better sound quality , noise cancellation , and coming at some point is Apple ’ s new spatial audio feature .
We think they ’ re the best wireless earbuds that iPhone owners should buy .

If you know where to look, there are often some great discounts available on Apple’s ever-popular AirPods. Since Apple launched the third-gen AirPods toward the end of 2021, we’ve seen the starting price of the second-gen, entry-level model slowly dip to around $100. And now that the second-gen AirPods Pro have been on the market for nearly a year, we’re seeing their price fall more often, too.
Here, we’ve curated the best deals currently available on each model, including the entry-level AirPods, the AirPods Pro, the third-gen AirPods, and the AirPods Max.
The best AirPods (second-gen) deals
In 2021, Apple lowered the list price of the second-gen AirPods — now the entry-level model — from $159 to $129. It now only sells the model with a wired charging case, however, which charges via a standard Lightning cable. Despite their age, we found that the easy-to-use, second-gen AirPods still offer great wireless performance and reliable battery life, making them a great pick if you can live without a wireless charging case.
Apple’s most affordable pair of earbuds have dropped to as low as $79.99 before, but right now they’re only on sale for around $99 ($30 off) at Amazon, Walmart, and Best Buy. Alternatively, if you prefer the model with the wireless charging case, it’s available at Adorama for $129.99 ($20 off).
The best AirPods (third-gen) deals
With support for the company’s MagSafe technology and an asking price of $179, Apple’s third-gen AirPods are often considered the middle child in Apple’s current AirPods lineup. The shorter stems make for a more subtle design, too, while improved sound and features like sweat and water resistance, support for spatial audio with dynamic head tracking, and improved battery life render them a nice improvement over the last-gen model.
In September, Apple quietly introduced a new, slightly cheaper option for the third-gen AirPods that comes with a Lightning-only charging case. They are currently on sale at Amazon and Target for $149.99 ($20 off). You can also buy the option with a MagSafe charging case at B&H Photo and Costco (members only) for around $169.95 ($9 off).
The best AirPods Pro deals
In case you missed it, Apple announced the second-gen AirPods Pro during its “Far Out” event in September, a pair of earbuds that feature a similar build to the first-gen model but offer better noise cancellation. They also sport swipe-based controls, come with Apple’s new H2 chip, and feature an extra-small pair of swappable silicone ear tips for smaller ears.
They typically retail for $249, but right now they’re on sale at Amazon, Walmart, and Best Buy for around $199 ($50 off), which nearly matches their all-time low. If you live close to a Micro Center, you can also pick them up in-store for $194.99 ($5 off).
The first-gen AirPods Pro are also still available for purchase, and sometimes much cheaper than the second-gen model. They have better sound quality than the non-premium models listed above, as well as active noise cancellation. They also come with swappable silicone tips — albeit three, not four — and support Apple’s spatial audio feature, which adds an immersive surround sound effect to select content.
At the end of 2021, Apple launched a new configuration of the first-gen AirPods Pro with a wireless charging case that supports Apple’s MagSafe technology, just like the third-gen AirPods. While they used to retail for $249, we’ve seen them drop to around $159, and sometimes they even sell for as low as $129. Right now, however, they’re not on sale, which is why we suggest buying the second-gen AirPods Pro while they’re still discounted.
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The best AirPods Max deals
The AirPods Max aren’t the iconic in-ears that have become synonymous with the AirPods name. They’re large and luxurious, comprised of aluminum, steel, and mesh fabric that remains comfortable during extended listening sessions. They also sport excellent noise cancellation, Apple’s spatial audio feature, and expansive, balanced sound, even if they lag behind some of their peers when it comes to bass response. They’re not the best noise-canceling headphones for most people — blame the $550 sticker price — but it’s hard to find a pair of Bluetooth headphones that sound better and feature more intuitive controls.
Although Woot and other retailers have discounted the AirPods Max to as low as $409 in the past, prices have since increased across the board. That said, the Max are receiving a sizable discount at Amazon, Walmart, and B&H Photo, where you can pick them up in select colors for around $477 ($72 off) at checkout. If you live near a Micro Center, you can also buy them for $469.99 ($80 off).


theverge--2020-07-02--Olympus now lets you use some of its mirrorless cameras as webcams

Olympus is becoming the latest camera company to release an app that allows customers to use its mirrorless cameras as high-quality webcams with a new OM-D Webcam Beta app , via PetaPixel .
For now , the OM-D Webcam Beta only supports Windows computers and works with five of Olympus ’ mirrorless cameras : the OM-D E-M1X , the OM-D E-M1 , the OM-D E-M1 Mark II , the OM-D E-M1 Mark III , and the OM-D E-M5 Mark II .
Setting up your camera is easy : simply install the app , connect your camera through its USB-C port @ @ @ @ @ @ @ up the software , after which point your Olympus camera will appear as an option in your videoconferencing app of choice just like any other integrated or USB camera would .
For a more detailed walkthrough , check out Olympus ’ video guide here .
Olympus notes that the OM-D Webcam Beta software doesn ’ t output sound from the camera — instead , you ’ ll rely on your computer ’ s internal microphone or an external USB microphone as usual .
The decision is an intentional one , the company notes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the camera in the best location for video without worrying about being too far to pick up your voice .
With the release of the new OM-D Webcam Beta , Olympus joins Fujifilm , Canon , and Panasonic in releasing software that makes it easier to use your mirrorless camera as a webcam .
( Although Fujifilm and Canon are a little farther ahead , with both companies supporting Mac computers in addition to Windows . )
Olympus recently announced that it would be exiting the camera business entirely , with plans to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Japan Industrial Partners , an investment fund , citing a decline in business in the camera market .
Despite those plans , it seems that Olympus isn ’ t just leaving its customers in the lurch , with development of new software like the OM-D Webcam Beta and a newly announced lens roadmap for its existing products .

Olympus is becoming the latest camera company to release an app that allows customers to use its mirrorless cameras as high-quality webcams with a new OM-D Webcam Beta app, via PetaPixel.
For now, the OM-D Webcam Beta only supports Windows computers and works with five of Olympus’ mirrorless cameras: the OM-D E-M1X, the OM-D E-M1, the OM-D E-M1 Mark II, the OM-D E-M1 Mark III, and the OM-D E-M5 Mark II.
Related How to use your DSLR or mirrorless camera as a webcam
Setting up your camera is easy: simply install the app, connect your camera through its USB-C port, turn it on, and start up the software, after which point your Olympus camera will appear as an option in your videoconferencing app of choice just like any other integrated or USB camera would. For a more detailed walkthrough, check out Olympus’ video guide here.
Olympus notes that the OM-D Webcam Beta software doesn’t output sound from the camera — instead, you’ll rely on your computer’s internal microphone or an external USB microphone as usual. The decision is an intentional one, the company notes, as it allows users to place the camera in the best location for video without worrying about being too far to pick up your voice.
With the release of the new OM-D Webcam Beta, Olympus joins Fujifilm, Canon, and Panasonic in releasing software that makes it easier to use your mirrorless camera as a webcam. (Although Fujifilm and Canon are a little farther ahead, with both companies supporting Mac computers in addition to Windows.)


theverge--2020-07-02--Amazon Prime Video launches Windows 10 desktop app

Amazon Prime Video ’ s dedicated app for Windows 10 is now live in the Microsoft Store , the company announced Thursday .
It allows you to stream videos and download them for offline viewing .
While it ’ s always been possible to stream Prime Video content through a browser like Chrome , there was no way to download videos on a Windows device to view offline until now .
Amazon has lately beefed up its original streaming content to compete with rivals like Netflix and Hulu .
That includes critically acclaimed shows like Fleabag , The Marvelous Mrs. @ @ @ @ @ @ @ report found that the company is “ actively pursuing ” licensing deals for live TV , and earlier this week , it introduced a Watch Party feature in the US so up to 100 people can stream with friends .
The Windows 10 app is free , but a subscription to Amazon Prime Video is $ 8.99 per month .
Amazon Prime subscribers , who pay $ 119 for an annual subscription , get Prime Video for free .
An initial test by The Verge found the Windows 10 app wouldn ’ t @ @ @ @ @ @ @ resolution , similar to the limits on the iPad version of the app , even though it ’ s possible to stream at 1080p HD through a web browser .
The download option has three tiers for video quality , Good , Better , and Best , with each tier using progressively more storage .
But the app does not indicate the corresponding resolution to each tier .
A 52-minute episode of Tales from the Loop at the Best setting took up about 2.74GB of space .
According to the company , the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 1080p HD , “ but may vary per content.
” In testing , we weren ’ t able to get better than 720p across a number of titles , even though they are listed as “ 4K UHD ” in the app itself .

Amazon Prime Video’s dedicated app for Windows 10 is now live in the Microsoft Store, the company announced Thursday. It allows you to stream videos and download them for offline viewing. While it’s always been possible to stream Prime Video content through a browser like Chrome, there was no way to download videos on a Windows device to view offline until now.
Amazon has lately beefed up its original streaming content to compete with rivals like Netflix and Hulu. That includes critically acclaimed shows like Fleabag, The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, and Homecoming. A recent report found that the company is “actively pursuing” licensing deals for live TV, and earlier this week, it introduced a Watch Party feature in the US so up to 100 people can stream with friends.
The Windows 10 app is free, but a subscription to Amazon Prime Video is $8.99 per month. Amazon Prime subscribers, who pay $119 for an annual subscription, get Prime Video for free.
An initial test by The Verge found the Windows 10 app wouldn’t stream higher than HD (720p) resolution, similar to the limits on the iPad version of the app, even though it’s possible to stream at 1080p HD through a web browser. The download option has three tiers for video quality, Good, Better, and Best, with each tier using progressively more storage. But the app does not indicate the corresponding resolution to each tier. A 52-minute episode of Tales from the Loop at the Best setting took up about 2.74GB of space.


theverge--2020-07-02--Super Nintendo World Japan looks like a Mario level dropped into reality

We may have just gotten our best look yet at Super Nintendo World , Nintendo and Universal ’ s upcoming Mario-themed area for Universal Studios Japan — and it looks like a level plucked straight out of a Mario game and dropped into the real world ( via Input ) .
Seriously , take a little over a minute of your day to watch this video of the park , from Twitter : There ’ s just a stunning attention to detail .
Coins rotating in sync !
Hidden pipes !
A menacing Pirhana Plant !
A stack of Goombas @ @ @ @ @ @ @ !
Every time I watch the video , I see some clever new feature that I had missed before .
If you want to get an idea of how big Super Nintendo World will be ( and just how much of the Mario universe is packed into it ) , check out this photo , shared in what seems to be a now-deleted Instagram post that was saved by Attractions Magazine .
The amount of Mario goodness in this one photo reminds me of a Where ’ s Waldo book : And to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Super Nintendo World compares to other attractions in the park , here ’ s a zoomed-out photo showing the Harry Potter-themed park nearby : We still don ’ t know when people will finally be able to explore Super Nintendo World for themselves , though .
The area had been scheduled to open this month , but on Monday , that opening was delayed indefinitely due to the COVID-19 pandemic .
( Universal Studios Japan reopened in June , but with increased safety guidelines in place . )
We do know a couple @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
There will be a ride based on Yoshi ( if you look closely at the photos , you can spot what look like Yoshi-themed cars lined up ) and one based on Nintendo ’ s hugely popular Mario Kart series .
Visitors also will be able to use a Mario-themed wristband called the “ Power Up Band ” in combination with a smartphone app to track your activities while in the Nintendo-themed land .
Super Nintendo World is also planned for Universal Studios theme parks in Orlando , Hollywood , and Singapore @ @ @ @ @ @ @

We may have just gotten our best look yet at Super Nintendo World, Nintendo and Universal’s upcoming Mario-themed area for Universal Studios Japan — and it looks like a level plucked straight out of a Mario game and dropped into the real world (via Input).
Seriously, take a little over a minute of your day to watch this video of the park, from Twitter:
There’s just a stunning attention to detail. Coins rotating in sync! Hidden pipes! A menacing Pirhana Plant! A stack of Goombas! An angry Thwomp! Yoshi!! Every time I watch the video, I see some clever new feature that I had missed before.
If you want to get an idea of how big Super Nintendo World will be (and just how much of the Mario universe is packed into it), check out this photo, shared in what seems to be a now-deleted Instagram post that was saved by Attractions Magazine. The amount of Mario goodness in this one photo reminds me of a Where’s Waldo book:
Image: Attractions Magazine
And to give you a better idea of how Super Nintendo World compares to other attractions in the park, here’s a zoomed-out photo showing the Harry Potter-themed park nearby:
Image: Attractions Magazine
We still don’t know when people will finally be able to explore Super Nintendo World for themselves, though. The area had been scheduled to open this month, but on Monday, that opening was delayed indefinitely due to the COVID-19 pandemic. (Universal Studios Japan reopened in June, but with increased safety guidelines in place.)
We do know a couple things about the land already, however. There will be a ride based on Yoshi (if you look closely at the photos, you can spot what look like Yoshi-themed cars lined up) and one based on Nintendo’s hugely popular Mario Kart series. Visitors also will be able to use a Mario-themed wristband called the “Power Up Band” in combination with a smartphone app to track your activities while in the Nintendo-themed land.


theverge--2020-07-02--The Apple Card now has a website where you can pay your bills

Apple has introduced a new web portal for managing its Apple Card credit card ( including paying bills , viewing the current balance , and seeing past bill statements ) , which makes the experience as a whole less reliant on an iPhone or iPad , via AppleInsider .
Previously , the only way to manage an Apple Card required having a compatible iOS device with the Wallet app installed , which made it far less easy to access than a traditional credit card ( nearly all of which offer web portals to pay bills and check balances ) .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ naturally , at card.apple.com ) doesn ’ t completely eliminate the need for an iPhone or iPad , however : you ’ ll still need to own one of Apple ’ s devices to actually apply for the Apple Card , which means , despite the web portal , it ’ s still effectively locked to Apple customers only .
The Apple Card was announced in April 2019 as part of Apple ’ s increased push into the service industry .
Backed by Goldman Sachs , it offers a number of perks designed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ compatibility with the company ’ s Apple Pay system easier .
It also offers a physical titanium card and 3 percent cashback on any purchase made from Apple , 2 percent on Apple Pay transactions , and 1 percent on purchases made with the regular card .

Apple has introduced a new web portal for managing its Apple Card credit card (including paying bills, viewing the current balance, and seeing past bill statements), which makes the experience as a whole less reliant on an iPhone or iPad, via AppleInsider.
Previously, the only way to manage an Apple Card required having a compatible iOS device with the Wallet app installed, which made it far less easy to access than a traditional credit card (nearly all of which offer web portals to pay bills and check balances).
At last, a website
The new web portal (located, naturally, at card.apple.com) doesn’t completely eliminate the need for an iPhone or iPad, however: you’ll still need to own one of Apple’s devices to actually apply for the Apple Card, which means, despite the web portal, it’s still effectively locked to Apple customers only.


theverge--2020-07-03--The best tech deals for the July Fourth weekend

Only the best deals on Verge-approved gadgets get the Verge Deals stamp of approval , so if you 're looking for a deal on your next gadget or gift from major retailers like Amazon , Walmart , Best Buy , Target , and more , this is the place to be .
Tomorrow is July Fourth , or Independence Day if you live in the US .
Like all major US holidays , there are some good sales happening on tech that are worth mentioning .
We ’ ve listed the best ones we know about below , broken up @ @ @ @ @ @ @ happening through tomorrow night , so it ’ s best to hurry if you want to get your shopping on .
Though , some of them last for a few more days .
Acer is offering a 20 percent discount on almost anything from its online store , including laptops , monitors , desktops , accessories , and more .
Use the code JULY2020 at checkout to save .
In terms of exclusions , certain products listed here can ’ t be discounted .
Lenovo ’ s new Legion 5 gaming laptop is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ price .
Usually $ 1,100 , paying $ 950 will get you a capable laptop with Intel ’ s 10th Gen Core i7-10750H processor , Nvidia ’ s GeForce GTX 1660 Ti graphics chip , 8GB of RAM , a 512GB PCIe SSD , and a 15.6-inch display with a 120Hz refresh rate .
A quick note : I recently reviewed the $ 989 configuration of Lenovo ’ s IdeaPad Gaming 3 , and I ’ d recommend this Legion 5 over it based on specs alone .
You ’ re getting a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Best Buy is offering a fantastic deal on Samsung ’ s 65-inch RU8000 4K HDR TV .
Usually $ 900 , it ’ s down to $ 600 .
This is Samsung ’ s previous 8-series model and it ’ s tough to find in stock at most retailers , but in a few ways it ’ s the preferable option over the newer TU8000 TV .
It features four HDMI ports to three in the latest version , and it has a 120Hz refresh rate , while the new model is only @ @ @ @ @ @ @ AirPlay 2 and it ’ s wall-mountable .
If you want something smaller than the option above , a little more affordable at $ 550 , and with better colors and contrast with its QLED screen , TCL ’ s latest 55-inch 6-series TV might be a good fit .
Like the Samsung model I mentioned , this one features four HDMI ports and a 120Hz refresh rate , though this one has local dimming zones , which are great for illuminating dark scenes in a realistic fashion .
It also comes with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the need for a set-top streaming box .
Fire TV Edition televisions come with Amazon ’ s Fire HD streaming tech built right into them , so they ’ re a good option if you don ’ t want to fuss with plugging in and setting up a device .
Models ranging in size from 32 inches to 55 inches from Insignia and Toshiba are discounted at Best Buy this weekend , and each one comes with a free Amazon Echo Dot smart speaker .
You can use it to command Alexa to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ edition television , or just gift it to a friend or family member .
If you want to load up on preowned games for PS4 and Xbox One , GameStop is offering a deal where if you buy two games , you ’ ll get the third free .
So , add three games to your cart , and the cheapest one will be free .
To maximize the value , aim for titles that are more expensive , like The Last of Us Part II , so you ’ ll save more @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Apple ’ s HomePod smart speaker is down to $ 200 again at Best Buy .
This is $ 100 off the usual price , and while this isn ’ t the first time we ’ ve seen this big of a drop , it ’ s your time to save if you ’ ve been hoping to pick one up .
Ring ’ s second-generation Video Doorbell is $ 80 at Amazon and it comes with a free Echo Dot smart speaker .
This is a good entry price if you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ see who ’ s at the door or when a package gets dropped off .
Best Buy is throwing in a free Google Nest Hub smart display ( usually around $ 80 ) when you buy the $ 230 Nest Hub Max that features a camera and a larger display .
We reported recently that you can host or join Google Meet or Duo video calls from the Nest Hub Max , so it could be a good option if you want to stay connected for work or pleasure .
SimpliSafe ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Best Buy .
Normally $ 270 , you can pick up the complete system for $ 210 .
It features Alexa and Google Assistant compatibility and includes the base station , motion detector , four door or window sensors , and a keypad .
Ultimate Ears ’ MegaBoom 3 is one of the best Bluetooth speakers you can buy .
It ’ s loud , with long-lasting battery , and it ’ s $ 70 off at Best Buy this weekend .
You can snag one in the moon color variant for $ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ out Tidal ’ s Hi-Fi music streaming service , you can sign up for three months for $ 3 .
This subscription usually costs $ 20 ( high-fidelity audio is not a cheap hobby ! )
, so this a good opportunity to try it out with just a small investment before you ’ re sure it ’ s something you want to continue paying for .
Marshall is tossing in a free set of its Major III wireless headphones ( usually $ 80 ) when you buy one of its speakers .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ ( and this deal excludes the new Emberton ) , though it ’ s a good deal if you are in the market for a new speaker anyway .
Satechi is knocking 20 percent off its collection of wireless charging products for phones and wearables .
Just use the code WIRELESS at checkout to save some money .

Tomorrow is July Fourth, or Independence Day if you live in the US. Like all major US holidays, there are some good sales happening on tech that are worth mentioning. We’ve listed the best ones we know about below, broken up by category. Many of them are happening through tomorrow night, so it’s best to hurry if you want to get your shopping on. Though, some of them last for a few more days.
Computing
Acer is offering a 20 percent discount on almost anything from its online store, including laptops, monitors, desktops, accessories, and more. Use the code JULY2020 at checkout to save. In terms of exclusions, certain products listed here can’t be discounted.
Image: Lenovo
Lenovo’s new Legion 5 gaming laptop is discounted at Best Buy to a great price. Usually $1,100, paying $950 will get you a capable laptop with Intel’s 10th Gen Core i7-10750H processor, Nvidia’s GeForce GTX 1660 Ti graphics chip, 8GB of RAM, a 512GB PCIe SSD, and a 15.6-inch display with a 120Hz refresh rate.
A quick note: I recently reviewed the $989 configuration of Lenovo’s IdeaPad Gaming 3, and I’d recommend this Legion 5 over it based on specs alone. You’re getting a superior graphics chip here for less.
Lenovo Legion 5 / Was $1,100, now 13% off $950 at Best Buy
TVs
Best Buy is offering a fantastic deal on Samsung’s 65-inch RU8000 4K HDR TV. Usually $900, it’s down to $600. This is Samsung’s previous 8-series model and it’s tough to find in stock at most retailers, but in a few ways it’s the preferable option over the newer TU8000 TV. It features four HDMI ports to three in the latest version, and it has a 120Hz refresh rate, while the new model is only 60Hz. Additionally, this TV supports AirPlay 2 and it’s wall-mountable.
Samsung 65-inch RU8000 4K HDR TV / Was about $900, now 33% off $600 at Best Buy
If you want something smaller than the option above, a little more affordable at $550, and with better colors and contrast with its QLED screen, TCL’s latest 55-inch 6-series TV might be a good fit. Like the Samsung model I mentioned, this one features four HDMI ports and a 120Hz refresh rate, though this one has local dimming zones, which are great for illuminating dark scenes in a realistic fashion. It also comes with Roku software built in, thus eliminating the need for a set-top streaming box.
TCL 55-inch 6-series QLED 4K HDR TV / Was about $579, now 5% off $550 at Amazon
Photo by Chris Welch / The Verge
Fire TV Edition televisions come with Amazon’s Fire HD streaming tech built right into them, so they’re a good option if you don’t want to fuss with plugging in and setting up a device. Models ranging in size from 32 inches to 55 inches from Insignia and Toshiba are discounted at Best Buy this weekend, and each one comes with a free Amazon Echo Dot smart speaker. You can use it to command Alexa to start a show on the Fire TV edition television, or just gift it to a friend or family member.
Gaming
If you want to load up on preowned games for PS4 and Xbox One, GameStop is offering a deal where if you buy two games, you’ll get the third free. So, add three games to your cart, and the cheapest one will be free. To maximize the value, aim for titles that are more expensive, like The Last of Us Part II, so you’ll save more on the game you get for free.
Smart home
Photo by James Bareham / The Verge
Apple’s HomePod smart speaker is down to $200 again at Best Buy. This is $100 off the usual price, and while this isn’t the first time we’ve seen this big of a drop, it’s your time to save if you’ve been hoping to pick one up.
Apple HomePod / Was $300, now 33% off $200 at Best Buy
Photo by Dan Seifert / The Verge
Ring’s second-generation Video Doorbell is $80 at Amazon and it comes with a free Echo Dot smart speaker. This is a good entry price if you just want a battery-powered video doorbell to see who’s at the door or when a package gets dropped off.
Ring Video Doorbell with free Echo Dot / Was $130, now 38% for the bundle $80 at Amazon
Photo by Dan Seifert / The Verge
Best Buy is throwing in a free Google Nest Hub smart display (usually around $80) when you buy the $230 Nest Hub Max that features a camera and a larger display. We reported recently that you can host or join Google Meet or Duo video calls from the Nest Hub Max, so it could be a good option if you want to stay connected for work or pleasure.
Google Nest Hub Max (includes Nest Hub for free) / Was $310, now 25% off $230 at Best Buy
Photo by Dan Seifert / The Verge
SimpliSafe’s home security system is steeply discounted at Best Buy. Normally $270, you can pick up the complete system for $210. It features Alexa and Google Assistant compatibility and includes the base station, motion detector, four door or window sensors, and a keypad.
SimpliSafe home security system / Was $270, now 22% off $210 at Best Buy
Related The best home security system you can install yourself
Misc.
Photo by Vjeran Pavic / The Verge
Ultimate Ears’ MegaBoom 3 is one of the best Bluetooth speakers you can buy. It’s loud, with long-lasting battery, and it’s $70 off at Best Buy this weekend. You can snag one in the moon color variant for $130.
Ultimate Ears MegaBoom 3 (moon color) / Was $200, now 40% off $130 at Best Buy
Photo by Amelia Holowaty Krales / The Verge
If you want to try out Tidal’s Hi-Fi music streaming service, you can sign up for three months for $3. This subscription usually costs $20 (high-fidelity audio is not a cheap hobby!), so this a good opportunity to try it out with just a small investment before you’re sure it’s something you want to continue paying for.
Image: Marshall
Marshall is tossing in a free set of its Major III wireless headphones (usually $80) when you buy one of its speakers. The most affordable one is $170 (and this deal excludes the new Emberton), though it’s a good deal if you are in the market for a new speaker anyway.
Image: Satechi
Satechi is knocking 20 percent off its collection of wireless charging products for phones and wearables. Just use the code WIRELESS at checkout to save some money.


theverge--2020-07-03--The Verge’s favorite gadgets and gear for summer

Despite all of the ills and upheavals that 2020 is bringing , there is at least one thing that we can celebrate : summer is here .
And while your favorite sports team may be on hiatus , your vacation trip may be canceled , and your family get-together will have to wait , there are still things to enjoy and ways to relax .
The staff of The Verge has gotten together to recommend some of their favorite gadgets , devices , and gizmos to help you have the best summer possible .
Sitting inside all day means that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ outside can feel kind of magical and otherworldly .
It ’ s fun for me to bring my camera , Olympus ’ E-M10 Mark II , along for walks so I can scope out and capture little moments of beauty in the world before I climb back into my dwelling .
I ’ d normally do this during any summer , but it feels especially worthwhile to do during this peculiar one .
If you ’ re using a bicycle to get around , then a phone mount is a great investment .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ phone into a bike sat-nav , letting you find your way around without having to constantly pull over to the side of the road to check directions .
Personally , I find it essential for getting anywhere on time when I ’ m on two wheels .
For the past six months , I ’ ve been using Quad Lock ’ s mounting system to attach my Pixel 3 daily driver to my bike .
You get a small mounting point that attaches onto your bike ( there are a couple of different @ @ @ @ @ @ @ one that mounts directly onto my bike ’ s stem ) , and then you also get a phone case that has a mounting socket built into its back .
It ’ s easy to attach , and once it ’ s on there , I ’ ve found it stays put regardless of whether I ride over tarmac , cobblestones , or gravel .
The only potential problem with the system is that it works best when you have a phone that Quad Lock sells a dedicated case for .
( These @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Huawei , and Pixel phones . )
There ’ s a universal fit kit , which you can stick on the back of other phones or cases , but it sticks out a little more from the back of your phone , and it can reportedly be a little annoying .
Otherwise , my Quad Lock has been an incredibly useful little upgrade for my bike , allowing me to cycle anywhere at a moment ’ s notice rather than having to plan routes ahead of time .
The good news : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , with two-wheelers getting snatched up in record numbers by people seeking to ameliorate their COVID-inspired cabin fever .
The bad news : the cars are back , too , with many drivers exploiting less-congested streets to speed recklessly .
As always , safety is paramount , so when you ’ re out riding , you should always wear a helmet .
As Tracy Jordan would say , “ You ’ ve got to protect your mind grapes.
” But why settle for any piece of plastic and hardened foam when you can @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is a growing number of bike helmets that include embedded LED lights .
Lumos is one popular brand , with three LED modules that allow motorists to see you from most angles .
I got a chance to try out the Matrix at the NYC Bike Expo last year , and I ’ ve been looking forward to the forthcoming Ultra .
Cycling experts like that it ’ s lightweight and well-vented , which makes it perfect for those longer summer rides .
I like the fact that it looks cool while keeping @ @ @ @ @ @ @ drivers .
Lumos is doing a Kickstarter for the Ultra , and it hopes to begin deliveries by November .
The front headlight on the Ultra gives you added illumination , and the back lights can even display right and left turn signals .
And at just $ 99 , the Lumos Ultra is cheaper than other options in the market .
For example , a high-quality helmet and a set of bike lights would easily set you back by $ 200 .
Amazon ’ s Kindle Paperwhite e-reader is a great gadget @ @ @ @ @ @ @ having to worry about things like lugging around a thousand-page tome or dealing with the potential of wet pages .
The Paperwhite ’ s E Ink screen is very visible outdoors ( unlike most phone screens , which can be harder to see in bright sunshine ) , and the newest Paperwhite is waterproof , meaning it should be able to safely handle a splash or even a brief dip in the pool .
Happy reading .
The Apple Watch isn ’ t a summer-exclusive gadget , but it ’ s one I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ day this summer — tan lines be damned .
By running competitions with my long-distance friends , it keeps me motivated to work out several times a week while staying connected to them .
Given the added oddity of a summer during a pandemic , it ’ s a little extra encouragement to get outside each day for a short walk .
If quarantine has you cultivating an aggressive patio garden , an expandable hose is a nice , much lighter alternative to a traditional heavy rubber hose .
It triples in length @ @ @ @ @ @ @ into a nice coil that you can store in an old flower pot when empty .
This one comes with a nice sprayer nozzle with a range of flow settings for different pots and gardens .
Portable Bluetooth speakers are essential summer gadgets , and Ultimate Ears makes the best around .
They sound great , they look great , and they ’ re waterproof and weatherproof for wherever you take one .
If you need a bigger partner , the Boom 3 or MegaBoom 3 are the ones to go to , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ picnic in the park , a day at the beach , or a backyard barbecue .
Prefer something a little smaller and cheaper ?
The Wonderboom has the same benefits but in a more portable and quieter package .
The summer is a fantastic time to take up new hobbies , and learning to fly a drone can be really rewarding and fun !
DJI ’ s Mavic Mini is the perfect beginner drone for new pilots .
The features you get with this little drone ( 249.5 grams ) are impressive .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ just around the 25-minute mark depending on weather , and the gimbal and camera are great .
I love taking this little guy out to the nearby lake and grabbing some fantastic videos of sunsets over the water .
You can actually even use it handheld if you want a stabilized gimbal shot but don ’ t have one handy — just turn it on and start recording without taking off !
I would highly recommend the Mini Combo for the extra $ 100 if you have the cash to spare since it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and extra propellers should you damage your own .
I fully expected to return the Leatherman Free P2 after giving it a quick spin — but with five minutes of practice , it made me a believer .
I ’ ve rarely ever got both hands free , and the P2 is the first multitool I ’ ve used that doesn ’ t need both : every single tool ( pliers , scissors , screwdrivers , wire stripper , etc . )
can flip in and out one-handed , thanks to a combination @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that keep the otherwise-freely rotating handles closed .
When I need to quickly snip a zip-tie on my kid ’ s new scooter , slice into a grilled chicken breast to test doneness , or pull out those pliers or drivers without letting go of the item that needs manipulating , it ’ s a snap — and flipping around the butterfly knife-like handles is a nice distraction for my constantly fidgeting hands .
The pricier P4 also comes with an extra knife and saw blade , but note that early units didn @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pocket clip .
To me , summer means cherries and cherry pie .
After many frustrating ( and probably dangerous ) years of surgically removing cherry pits with a knife , I finally caved and bought one of these cherry pitters .
It makes pitting cherries less of a chore and lets me get back to baking .
Other benefits : it ’ s inexpensive , doesn ’ t take up much space in my tiny kitchen , and is incredibly easy to use .
My sister swears by this collapsible wagon for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for campsites where the parking lot is a bit of a hike from your tent or for beach trips or park picnics when you have a lot to carry .
It ’ s very light and folds to a pretty compact size to squeeze into your car or store in your apartment .
I recently bought a hammock , and I ’ m never going back to any other way of relaxing in a park over the summer .
It ’ s super portable , super easy to set up , and perfect @ @ @ @ @ @ @ reading a book and watching the clouds roll by .
I haven ’ t done a lot of camping over the past few years , and my front lawn is so tiny that most squirrels disdain to even look at it .
Even so , it is nice to sit outside with a book and something to sip on , say hi to the neighbors ( at a suitable distance , of course ) and listen to the occasional bird .
While I don ’ t have room in front of my house @ @ @ @ @ @ @ can pull out this folding chair anytime I want and enjoy a bit of at-home summer relaxation .

Despite all of the ills and upheavals that 2020 is bringing, there is at least one thing that we can celebrate: summer is here. And while your favorite sports team may be on hiatus, your vacation trip may be canceled, and your family get-together will have to wait, there are still things to enjoy and ways to relax. The staff of The Verge has gotten together to recommend some of their favorite gadgets, devices, and gizmos to help you have the best summer possible.
Olympus OMD E-M10 Mark II.
Sitting inside all day means that even the most simple and short visits outside can feel kind of magical and otherworldly. It’s fun for me to bring my camera, Olympus’ E-M10 Mark II, along for walks so I can scope out and capture little moments of beauty in the world before I climb back into my dwelling. I’d normally do this during any summer, but it feels especially worthwhile to do during this peculiar one.
Cameron Faulkner
Writer
Olympus OMD E-M10 Mark II / Mirrorless Micro Four Thirds camera $315 at Adorama
Quad Lock bike phone mount. Photo: Quad Lock
If you’re using a bicycle to get around, then a phone mount is a great investment. You can use it to turn your phone into a bike sat-nav, letting you find your way around without having to constantly pull over to the side of the road to check directions. Personally, I find it essential for getting anywhere on time when I’m on two wheels.
For the past six months, I’ve been using Quad Lock’s mounting system to attach my Pixel 3 daily driver to my bike. You get a small mounting point that attaches onto your bike (there are a couple of different options here, but I have the one that mounts directly onto my bike’s stem), and then you also get a phone case that has a mounting socket built into its back. It’s easy to attach, and once it’s on there, I’ve found it stays put regardless of whether I ride over tarmac, cobblestones, or gravel.
The only potential problem with the system is that it works best when you have a phone that Quad Lock sells a dedicated case for. (These include iPhones as well as Samsung Galaxy, Huawei, and Pixel phones.) There’s a universal fit kit, which you can stick on the back of other phones or cases, but it sticks out a little more from the back of your phone, and it can reportedly be a little annoying.
Otherwise, my Quad Lock has been an incredibly useful little upgrade for my bike, allowing me to cycle anywhere at a moment’s notice rather than having to plan routes ahead of time.
Jon Porter
International news writer
Quad Lock bike mount / Phone mount for bicycles $30 at Quad Lock
Lumos LED bike helmet. Image: Lumos
The good news: bicycle sales in the US are soaring, with two-wheelers getting snatched up in record numbers by people seeking to ameliorate their COVID-inspired cabin fever. The bad news: the cars are back, too, with many drivers exploiting less-congested streets to speed recklessly. As always, safety is paramount, so when you’re out riding, you should always wear a helmet. As Tracy Jordan would say, “You’ve got to protect your mind grapes.” But why settle for any piece of plastic and hardened foam when you can get something a little smarter?
There is a growing number of bike helmets that include embedded LED lights. Lumos is one popular brand, with three LED modules that allow motorists to see you from most angles. I got a chance to try out the Matrix at the NYC Bike Expo last year, and I’ve been looking forward to the forthcoming Ultra. Cycling experts like that it’s lightweight and well-vented, which makes it perfect for those longer summer rides. I like the fact that it looks cool while keeping me safe (hopefully) from inattentive drivers.
Lumos is doing a Kickstarter for the Ultra, and it hopes to begin deliveries by November. The front headlight on the Ultra gives you added illumination, and the back lights can even display right and left turn signals. And at just $99, the Lumos Ultra is cheaper than other options in the market. For example, a high-quality helmet and a set of bike lights would easily set you back by $200.
Andrew J. Hawkins
Senior reporter
Kindle Paperwhite. Photo by Amelia Holowaty Krales / The Verge
Amazon’s Kindle Paperwhite e-reader is a great gadget that lets you read books outside without having to worry about things like lugging around a thousand-page tome or dealing with the potential of wet pages. The Paperwhite’s E Ink screen is very visible outdoors (unlike most phone screens, which can be harder to see in bright sunshine), and the newest Paperwhite is waterproof, meaning it should be able to safely handle a splash or even a brief dip in the pool. Happy reading.
Jay Peters
News writer
Kindle Paperwhite / E-reader $130 at Amazon
Apple Watch Series 3 Photo by Amelia Holowaty Krales / The Verge
The Apple Watch isn’t a summer-exclusive gadget, but it’s one I’ll have on me nearly every day this summer — tan lines be damned. By running competitions with my long-distance friends, it keeps me motivated to work out several times a week while staying connected to them. Given the added oddity of a summer during a pandemic, it’s a little extra encouragement to get outside each day for a short walk.
Kaitlin Hatton
Social media manager
Apple Watch Series 3 / Smartwatch $169 at Amazon
Flexi Hose. Photo: Flexi Hose
If quarantine has you cultivating an aggressive patio garden, an expandable hose is a nice, much lighter alternative to a traditional heavy rubber hose. It triples in length when full of water, but collapses into a nice coil that you can store in an old flower pot when empty. This one comes with a nice sprayer nozzle with a range of flow settings for different pots and gardens.
Helen Havlak
VP
Flexi Hose / Expandable garden hose $50 at Amazon
Ultimate Ears Boom 3. Photo: Ultimate Ears
Portable Bluetooth speakers are essential summer gadgets, and Ultimate Ears makes the best around. They sound great, they look great, and they’re waterproof and weatherproof for wherever you take one. If you need a bigger partner, the Boom 3 or MegaBoom 3 are the ones to go to, perfect adding your favorite music to a picnic in the park, a day at the beach, or a backyard barbecue. Prefer something a little smaller and cheaper? The Wonderboom has the same benefits but in a more portable and quieter package.
Chaim Gartenberg
News editor
Ultimate Ears Boom 3 / Portable Bluetooth speaker $144 at Amazon
Ultimate Ears Wonderboom 2 / Portable Bluetooth speaker $80 at Amazon
DJI Mavic Mini. Photo: DJI
The summer is a fantastic time to take up new hobbies, and learning to fly a drone can be really rewarding and fun! DJI’s Mavic Mini is the perfect beginner drone for new pilots. The features you get with this little drone (249.5 grams) are impressive. I’ve had flight times hovering just around the 25-minute mark depending on weather, and the gimbal and camera are great. I love taking this little guy out to the nearby lake and grabbing some fantastic videos of sunsets over the water. You can actually even use it handheld if you want a stabilized gimbal shot but don’t have one handy — just turn it on and start recording without taking off! I would highly recommend the Mini Combo for the extra $100 if you have the cash to spare since it includes a case, three batteries, and extra propellers should you damage your own.
Grayson Blackmon
Senior motion designer
DJI Mavic Mini / Drone $399 at Amazon
Leatherman Free P2. GIF by Sean Hollister / The Verge
I fully expected to return the Leatherman Free P2 after giving it a quick spin — but with five minutes of practice, it made me a believer. I’ve rarely ever got both hands free, and the P2 is the first multitool I’ve used that doesn’t need both: every single tool (pliers, scissors, screwdrivers, wire stripper, etc.) can flip in and out one-handed, thanks to a combination of lightly spring-loaded locks and magnetic clasps that keep the otherwise-freely rotating handles closed. When I need to quickly snip a zip-tie on my kid’s new scooter, slice into a grilled chicken breast to test doneness, or pull out those pliers or drivers without letting go of the item that needs manipulating, it’s a snap — and flipping around the butterfly knife-like handles is a nice distraction for my constantly fidgeting hands. The pricier P4 also comes with an extra knife and saw blade, but note that early units didn’t have the P2’s pocket clip.
Sean Hollister
Senior news editor
Leatherman Free P2 / Multitool $105 from Amazon
OXO cherry and olive pitter. Photo: OXO
To me, summer means cherries and cherry pie. After many frustrating (and probably dangerous) years of surgically removing cherry pits with a knife, I finally caved and bought one of these cherry pitters. It makes pitting cherries less of a chore and lets me get back to baking. Other benefits: it’s inexpensive, doesn’t take up much space in my tiny kitchen, and is incredibly easy to use.
Mary Beth Griggs
Science editor
OXO cherry and olive pitter / Kitchen utensil $13 at Amazon
Mac Sports collapsible wagon. Photo: Mac Sports
My sister swears by this collapsible wagon for camping trips. It’s ideal for campsites where the parking lot is a bit of a hike from your tent or for beach trips or park picnics when you have a lot to carry. It’s very light and folds to a pretty compact size to squeeze into your car or store in your apartment.
Helen Havlak
Mac Sports collapsible wagon / Outdoor utility wagon $100 at Amazon
Wise Owl hammock. Photo: Wise Owl Outfitters
I recently bought a hammock, and I’m never going back to any other way of relaxing in a park over the summer. It’s super portable, super easy to set up, and perfect for just taking a lazy Sunday, reading a book and watching the clouds roll by.
Chaim Gartenberg
Wise Owl hammock / Portable hammock From $20 at Amazon
Quik Shade folding chair. Photo: Quik Shade
I haven’t done a lot of camping over the past few years, and my front lawn is so tiny that most squirrels disdain to even look at it. Even so, it is nice to sit outside with a book and something to sip on, say hi to the neighbors (at a suitable distance, of course) and listen to the occasional bird. While I don’t have room in front of my house for a permanent garden chair, I can pull out this folding chair anytime I want and enjoy a bit of at-home summer relaxation.
Barbara Krasnoff
Reviews editor


theverge--2020-07-03--LG Gram 17 review: lighter than it looks

Seventeen !
This laptop has a 17-inch screen .
It also weighs 2.98 pounds .
It ’ s very unusual to see a 17-inch laptop under four pounds — let alone under three .
Couple that with a $ 1,499 starting price ( our model currently goes for $ 1,699 ) , and you ’ re looking at a pretty niche target demographic .
For that niche , though , this laptop tracks .
LG hasn ’ t reinvented the wheel ; the 2020 Gram 17 is largely an iterative update to the 2019 model .
The company has made @ @ @ @ @ @ @ keyboard layout have received minor tweaks , the battery is bigger , and there ’ s a new 10th Gen Core i7-1065G7 under the hood .
But the massive screen remains the singular reason to buy this laptop , so you should only spend $ 1,699 on this if you ’ re sure that ’ s what you want .
It ’ s hard to put into words just how big a 17-inch screen is .
The panel has a 2560 x 1600 resolution with a 16:10 aspect ratio — so not only @ @ @ @ @ @ @ an extra bit of vertical space compared to many popular laptops .
Using the LG Gram 17 feels more similar to using a desktop than it does a 13-inch 16:9 screen .
It ’ s a ton of space .
I pretty much always had two ( or even three ) things open at once and never had to zoom out .
It ’ s also a nice-looking panel .
There ’ s a bit of glare , but I had no trouble working in bright environments with the screen around medium brightness @ @ @ @ @ @ @ covers 99 percent of the sRGB gamut and 74 percent of AdobeRGB ) , and details were crisp .
Videos are , of course , massive .
I watched half an episode of Dark on the Gram , and the characters looked miniature when I finished on a 13-inch device .
It ’ s not a perfect display , of course .
There was some ghosting in action scenes , and it was visible enough that I would probably not want to play games on the Gram 17 .
( Of course , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to be a gaming rig anyway .
More on that later . )
It ’ s also not the brightest screen out there ; it reached 369 nits at max brightness .
That ’ s enough for indoor browsing , but you ’ ll likely want something brighter if you plan on doing any creative work outside or near a bright window .
The MacBook Pro 16 and the Dell XPS 17 both get up to 500 nits .
And there ’ s no touch support — an omission that ’ s understandable @ @ @ @ @ @ @ penalty ) but still disappointing at a $ 1,699 price point .
I sometimes thought the Gram ’ s panel was too big .
When I worked in a full-screen Google Doc , there was so much emptiness on each side that I felt like I was wasting space .
That ’ s , again , a reason to strongly consider whether you need this sort of machine .
If you ’ re not often working in split-screen mode , you ’ ll likely be leaving some of the panel unused — and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ any number of 15- and 16-inch models for a lower price .
You aren ’ t sacrificing portability for that screen space , though — not even close .
At 2.98 pounds , the Gram 17 is astonishingly light for its size .
It ’ s a feather compared to the MacBook Pro 16 ( 4.3 pounds ) , the Dell XPS 17 ( 4.65 pounds ) , and the HP Envy 17 ( 6.02 pounds ) .
But it ’ s also lighter than many smaller computers , including the Dell XPS @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 15-inch Surface Laptop 3 ( 3.4 pounds ) , and the HP Spectre x360 15 ( 4.64 pounds ) .
I think the massive chassis ( 14.98 x 10.34 x 0.69 inches ) makes the Gram feel lighter than it is because you expect it to weigh more .
Carrying it feels like carrying nothing .
There ’ s nothing that the Gram 17 does terribly A laptop so light usually comes with major caveats .
Refreshingly , though , there ’ s nothing that the Gram 17 does terribly .
Battery life @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with an 80Wh battery ( last year ’ s was 72Wh ) , and I got 10 hours out of it .
( I ran the machine through my workload of around a dozen Chrome tabs , Slack , some Zoom calls , and occasional YouTube or Spotify streaming , at 200 nits of brightness on the Better Battery profile . )
That ’ s better than I ’ ve gotten from the MacBook Pro , the XPS 15 , and just about any other laptop of this size .
( The included @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Gram up , though .
In an hour , it only charged the battery 37 percent . )
The keyboard is great ; it ’ s backlit , and you can flick between “ low ” and “ high ” brightness levels with one of the function keys ( though I didn ’ t notice a huge difference between them ) .
The wide chassis leaves plenty of room for a numpad , another feature we don ’ t see on ultrabooks every day .
LG has made some tweaks to the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ( including Backspace , Enter , Shift , and the numpad ’ s 0 ) got bigger , and a fourth column has been added to the numpad that includes large enter and plus keys .
I think Backspace is still a bit small — I accidentally hit the adjacent Numlock every so often — but otherwise , the typing experience was great , and I maintained my typical speeds .
The touchpad is smooth and a comfortable click .
Like last year ’ s Gram , though , it ’ s placed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ than directly below the spacebar .
That meant my right hand was often resting on the trackpad while I typed , and I had occasional issues with palm rejection .
It ’ s not a deal-breaker , but it takes some getting used to .
There are two areas , though , where the Gram 17 doesn ’ t measure up to its price point .
The first is the design : it ’ s just not a looker .
LG has removed a large , visible hinge that made last year ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ But it ’ s still a thick laptop , and the chassis is made of a dark silver magnesium alloy that feels like cheap plastic .
The Gram isn ’ t necessarily ugly , but it would look like a toy next to an XPS .
The second is performance .
The Gram 17 will get the job done for most people who are just browsing .
I loaded up dozens of Chrome tabs with no problem and only saw slowdown if there were multiple downloads running or files being copied in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ temperature during my daily use , and I only heard the fans or felt serious heat under very heavy loads .
I looped Cinebench R20 five times , and the CPU stayed consistently in the mid-80s , never passing 90 degrees Celsius .
If you were planning to play games , though , the Gram is out .
I attempted to run Shadow of the Tomb Raider at 1920 x 1080 resolution on its lowest possible settings , and the laptop managed a measly average of 12fps .
( It was a slow @ @ @ @ @ @ @ took 30 minutes to complete a complex export in Adobe Premiere Pro — a significantly worse result than we ’ ve seen from other devices with integrated graphics like the XPS 13 and the Surface Laptop 3 ( not to mention the MacBook Pro or anything with a GPU ) .
Even basic photo editing in the Photos app was a slog .
These results aren ’ t unexpected , and they don ’ t make the Gram 17 a bad laptop .
It ’ s just important to know what you ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Gram line isn ’ t to create workhorses ; it ’ s to make the lightest laptop possible .
In that category , the Gram 17 has succeeded in rising to the top of its class .
That means there ’ s a very specific user for whom this laptop is a great purchase : you must require a 17-inch screen , you must care about lightness above all else , and you must not plan on doing anything that taxes the integrated graphics .
If you check those three boxes , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ choice for you .
If that ’ s not you , there are better options .

Seventeen! This laptop has a 17-inch screen. It also weighs 2.98 pounds.
It’s very unusual to see a 17-inch laptop under four pounds — let alone under three. Couple that with a $1,499 starting price (our model currently goes for $1,699), and you’re looking at a pretty niche target demographic. For that niche, though, this laptop tracks.
LG hasn’t reinvented the wheel; the 2020 Gram 17 is largely an iterative update to the 2019 model. The company has made some key improvements: the chassis and keyboard layout have received minor tweaks, the battery is bigger, and there’s a new 10th Gen Core i7-1065G7 under the hood. But the massive screen remains the singular reason to buy this laptop, so you should only spend $1,699 on this if you’re sure that’s what you want.
It’s hard to put into words just how big a 17-inch screen is. The panel has a 2560 x 1600 resolution with a 16:10 aspect ratio — so not only is it wide, but you get an extra bit of vertical space compared to many popular laptops. Using the LG Gram 17 feels more similar to using a desktop than it does a 13-inch 16:9 screen. It’s a ton of space. I pretty much always had two (or even three) things open at once and never had to zoom out.
LG Gram 17 2020 specs (as reviewed) 1.30GHz 4-core 10th Gen Intel Core i7-1065G7 with turbo boost up to 3.9GHz
16GB DDR4 dual-channel at 3200MHz
Intel Iris Plus Graphics
1TB M.2 solid-state drive (2 x 512GB)
17-inch IPS display, 2560 x 1600, 16:10
One HDMI, three USB 3.1 Type-A, one USB 3.1 Type-C (Thunderbolt 3), audio jack, power port, microSD slot
14.98 x 10.34 x 0.69 inches, 2.98 pounds
48W charger
Two 1.5-watt stereo speakers
HD webcam
Backlit keyboard
Precision touchpad
Wi-Fi 6
Bluetooth 5.0
It’s also a nice-looking panel. There’s a bit of glare, but I had no trouble working in bright environments with the screen around medium brightness. Colors looked great (the Gram covers 99 percent of the sRGB gamut and 74 percent of AdobeRGB), and details were crisp. Videos are, of course, massive. I watched half an episode of Dark on the Gram, and the characters looked miniature when I finished on a 13-inch device.
It’s not a perfect display, of course. There was some ghosting in action scenes, and it was visible enough that I would probably not want to play games on the Gram 17. (Of course, it doesn’t have the horsepower to be a gaming rig anyway. More on that later.) It’s also not the brightest screen out there; it reached 369 nits at max brightness. That’s enough for indoor browsing, but you’ll likely want something brighter if you plan on doing any creative work outside or near a bright window. The MacBook Pro 16 and the Dell XPS 17 both get up to 500 nits. And there’s no touch support — an omission that’s understandable (touchscreens come with a serious weight penalty) but still disappointing at a $1,699 price point.
I sometimes thought the Gram’s panel was too big. When I worked in a full-screen Google Doc, there was so much emptiness on each side that I felt like I was wasting space. That’s, again, a reason to strongly consider whether you need this sort of machine. If you’re not often working in split-screen mode, you’ll likely be leaving some of the panel unused — and at that point, you can get any number of 15- and 16-inch models for a lower price.
LG has updated the keyboard and numpad.
You aren’t sacrificing portability for that screen space, though — not even close. At 2.98 pounds, the Gram 17 is astonishingly light for its size. It’s a feather compared to the MacBook Pro 16 (4.3 pounds), the Dell XPS 17 (4.65 pounds), and the HP Envy 17 (6.02 pounds). But it’s also lighter than many smaller computers, including the Dell XPS 15 (4 pounds), the 15-inch Surface Laptop 3 (3.4 pounds), and the HP Spectre x360 15 (4.64 pounds). I think the massive chassis (14.98 x 10.34 x 0.69 inches) makes the Gram feel lighter than it is because you expect it to weigh more. Carrying it feels like carrying nothing.
There’s nothing that the Gram 17 does terribly
A laptop so light usually comes with major caveats. Refreshingly, though, there’s nothing that the Gram 17 does terribly.
Battery life is exceptional. The 2020 Gram comes with an 80Wh battery (last year’s was 72Wh), and I got 10 hours out of it. (I ran the machine through my workload of around a dozen Chrome tabs, Slack, some Zoom calls, and occasional YouTube or Spotify streaming, at 200 nits of brightness on the Better Battery profile.) That’s better than I’ve gotten from the MacBook Pro, the XPS 15, and just about any other laptop of this size. (The included 48W charger takes a while to juice the Gram up, though. In an hour, it only charged the battery 37 percent.)
The silver lid is quite nice.
The keyboard is great; it’s backlit, and you can flick between “low” and “high” brightness levels with one of the function keys (though I didn’t notice a huge difference between them). The wide chassis leaves plenty of room for a numpad, another feature we don’t see on ultrabooks every day.
LG has made some tweaks to the keyboard since last year: some keys (including Backspace, Enter, Shift, and the numpad’s 0) got bigger, and a fourth column has been added to the numpad that includes large enter and plus keys. I think Backspace is still a bit small — I accidentally hit the adjacent Numlock every so often — but otherwise, the typing experience was great, and I maintained my typical speeds.
The touchpad is smooth and a comfortable click. Like last year’s Gram, though, it’s placed in the center of the chassis rather than directly below the spacebar. That meant my right hand was often resting on the trackpad while I typed, and I had occasional issues with palm rejection. It’s not a deal-breaker, but it takes some getting used to.
Despite its lightness, the Gram 17 isn’t the thinnest laptop around.
There are two areas, though, where the Gram 17 doesn’t measure up to its price point. The first is the design: it’s just not a looker. LG has removed a large, visible hinge that made last year’s model look a bit chunky. But it’s still a thick laptop, and the chassis is made of a dark silver magnesium alloy that feels like cheap plastic. The Gram isn’t necessarily ugly, but it would look like a toy next to an XPS.
The second is performance.
The Gram 17 will get the job done for most people who are just browsing. I loaded up dozens of Chrome tabs with no problem and only saw slowdown if there were multiple downloads running or files being copied in the background. The chassis stayed a comfortable temperature during my daily use, and I only heard the fans or felt serious heat under very heavy loads. I looped Cinebench R20 five times, and the CPU stayed consistently in the mid-80s, never passing 90 degrees Celsius.
There’s an HD webcam, but no facial recognition.
Agree to Continue: LG Gram 17 (2020) Every smart device now requires you to agree to a series of terms and conditions before you can use it — contracts that no one actually reads. It’s impossible for us to read and analyze every single one of these agreements. But we started counting exactly how many times you have to hit “agree” to use devices when we review them, since these are agreements most people don’t read and definitely can’t negotiate. To start using the LG Gram 17, you’ll need to agree to the following: A request for your region
A request for your keyboard layout
Windows 10 license agreement
Microsoft account
PIN You can also say yes or no to the following: Wi-Fi
Windows Hello fingerprint recognition
Activity history
Syncing an Android phone
OneDrive backup
Office 365
Cortana
Privacy settings (speech recognition, location, Find My Device, sharing diagnostic data, inking and typing, tailored experience, advertising ID) Final tally: there are five mandatory agreements and 14 optional agreements to use the Gram 17.
If you were planning to play games, though, the Gram is out. I attempted to run Shadow of the Tomb Raider at 1920 x 1080 resolution on its lowest possible settings, and the laptop managed a measly average of 12fps. (It was a slow and stuttery experience.) It also took 30 minutes to complete a complex export in Adobe Premiere Pro — a significantly worse result than we’ve seen from other devices with integrated graphics like the XPS 13 and the Surface Laptop 3 (not to mention the MacBook Pro or anything with a GPU). Even basic photo editing in the Photos app was a slog.
These results aren’t unexpected, and they don’t make the Gram 17 a bad laptop. It’s just important to know what you’re paying for. The intent of the Gram line isn’t to create workhorses; it’s to make the lightest laptop possible. In that category, the Gram 17 has succeeded in rising to the top of its class.
That means there’s a very specific user for whom this laptop is a great purchase: you must require a 17-inch screen, you must care about lightness above all else, and you must not plan on doing anything that taxes the integrated graphics. If you check those three boxes, the LG Gram 17 is the obvious choice for you.
If that’s not you, there are better options.


theverge--2020-07-03--Google’s $2.1 billion Fitbit acquisition is getting closer scrutiny from EU regulators

Antitrust regulators and consumer advocacy groups are increasing their scrutiny of Google ’ s planned acquisition of fitness tracker firm Fitbit .
Google announced it was buying Fitbit last year for $ 2.1 billion and said it hoped to complete the deal some time in 2020 .
But it ’ s possible the acquisition will be delayed over fears about the search giant ’ s increased access to sensitive data from Fitbit ’ s hardware , including users ’ heart rates , their fitness activity , and their sleep patterns .
The EU has sent 60-page questionnaires to Google and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ reports that EU regulators have sent 60-page questionnaires to Google and Fitbit ’ s rivals , asking them to assess how the acquisition will affect the digital healthcare space ; whether it will disadvantage fitness tracking apps hosted in Google ’ s Play Store ; and how Google might use the data to profile users for its search and advertising business .
EU regulators have set a deadline of July 20th for their next decision regarding the deal .
The trading bloc can choose to approve the deal , or ask for concessions @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s data is used , for example ) , or open a four-month investigation to fully explore concerns .
The FT says the level of detail in the recent questionnaires sent to the companies ’ rivals suggests an extended investigation could be in the works .
The EU isn ’ t the only party worried about the acquisition , either .
Last month , Australia ’ s Competition and Consumer Commission announced its own concerns .
“ Buying Fitbit will allow Google to build an even more comprehensive set of user data , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to entry to potential rivals , ” said ACCC Chairman Rod Sims .
Worry from regulators has also been matched by consumer advocacy groups .
This week , 20 consumer groups , from the US , EU , Mexico , Canada , and Brazil , wrote to regulators saying the deal was a “ test case ” to see if they could effectively reign in data monopolies .
Consumer advocacy groups say the acquisition is a “ test case ” for regulators “ Google could exploit Fitbit ’ s exceptionally valuable health and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , to strengthen its already dominant position in digital markets such as online advertising , ” said the group , according to a report from CNET .
“ Google could also use Fitbit ’ s data to establish a commanding position in digital and related health markets , depriving competitors of the ability to compete effectively.
” Google has made some concessions to allay these fears , saying last year that “ Fitbit health and wellness data will not be used for Google ads.
” In reaction to the letter from consumer groups @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ about devices , not data , ” adding that the wearables space is “ highly crowded ” and that the acquisition of Fitbit will only increase competition .
This line of argument is likely to deter antitrust regulators from simply blocking the deal , reports Fortune , as Fitbit and Google aren ’ t direct competitors , and neither of them holds enough of the wearables market to make the argument that the deal creates a monopoly .
“ It would be extraordinarily difficult to bring a case ” “ It would @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , ” antitrust attorney David Balto , who was policy director at the FTC during Microsoft ’ s antitrust trials , told Fortune .
“ There are no successful oppositions to vertical mergers like this.
” According to data from analysts IDC , Fitbit had less than 5 percent of the wearables market in 2019 , while Apple , the largest player , had 32 percent .
The next two biggest companies , Xiaomi and Samsung , have 12 percent and 9 percent market share respectively .
None of these firms use Google @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
However , concerns about data access might be more persuasive considering Google ’ s strong position in online advertising , where it controls 90 percent of the market for some specific tools , like those used by publishers to sell displays ads .
This is a sensitive area for Google at the moment , as the US Justice Department is nearing the end of its own antitrust investigation against the company regarding alleged abuse of its advertising dominance .

Antitrust regulators and consumer advocacy groups are increasing their scrutiny of Google’s planned acquisition of fitness tracker firm Fitbit.
Google announced it was buying Fitbit last year for $2.1 billion and said it hoped to complete the deal some time in 2020. But it’s possible the acquisition will be delayed over fears about the search giant’s increased access to sensitive data from Fitbit’s hardware, including users’ heart rates, their fitness activity, and their sleep patterns.
The EU has sent 60-page questionnaires to Google and Fitbit’s rivals
The Financial Times reports that EU regulators have sent 60-page questionnaires to Google and Fitbit’s rivals, asking them to assess how the acquisition will affect the digital healthcare space; whether it will disadvantage fitness tracking apps hosted in Google’s Play Store; and how Google might use the data to profile users for its search and advertising business.
EU regulators have set a deadline of July 20th for their next decision regarding the deal. The trading bloc can choose to approve the deal, or ask for concessions from Google (regarding how Fitbit’s data is used, for example), or open a four-month investigation to fully explore concerns. The FT says the level of detail in the recent questionnaires sent to the companies’ rivals suggests an extended investigation could be in the works.
The EU isn’t the only party worried about the acquisition, either. Last month, Australia’s Competition and Consumer Commission announced its own concerns. “Buying Fitbit will allow Google to build an even more comprehensive set of user data, further cementing its position and raising barriers to entry to potential rivals,” said ACCC Chairman Rod Sims.
Worry from regulators has also been matched by consumer advocacy groups. This week, 20 consumer groups, from the US, EU, Mexico, Canada, and Brazil, wrote to regulators saying the deal was a “test case” to see if they could effectively reign in data monopolies.
Consumer advocacy groups say the acquisition is a “test case” for regulators
“Google could exploit Fitbit’s exceptionally valuable health and location datasets, and data collection capabilities, to strengthen its already dominant position in digital markets such as online advertising,” said the group, according to a report from CNET. “Google could also use Fitbit’s data to establish a commanding position in digital and related health markets, depriving competitors of the ability to compete effectively.”
Google has made some concessions to allay these fears, saying last year that “Fitbit health and wellness data will not be used for Google ads.” In reaction to the letter from consumer groups, the company said the deal is “about devices, not data,” adding that the wearables space is “highly crowded” and that the acquisition of Fitbit will only increase competition.
This line of argument is likely to deter antitrust regulators from simply blocking the deal, reports Fortune, as Fitbit and Google aren’t direct competitors, and neither of them holds enough of the wearables market to make the argument that the deal creates a monopoly.
“It would be extraordinarily difficult to bring a case”
“It would be extraordinarily difficult to bring a case,” antitrust attorney David Balto, who was policy director at the FTC during Microsoft’s antitrust trials, told Fortune. “There are no successful oppositions to vertical mergers like this.”
According to data from analysts IDC, Fitbit had less than 5 percent of the wearables market in 2019, while Apple, the largest player, had 32 percent. The next two biggest companies, Xiaomi and Samsung, have 12 percent and 9 percent market share respectively. None of these firms use Google’s software in their wearable devices.


theverge--2020-07-03--Evo Online canceled after co-founder accused of sexual misconduct

Fighting game tournament organizer Evo has canceled Evo Online and removed its co-founder and president from the company after serious allegations surfaced about his past behavior .
The long-running esports event had previously been scheduled to take place in a new online-only format starting July 4th due to the coronavirus pandemic .
Joey Cuellar “ will no longer be involved with Evo in any capacity , ” the company said .
Tony Cannon , another of the organization ’ s co-founders , will act as CEO going forward .
Cuellar apologized in a tweet , and said he was “ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The announcement of the event ’ s cancellation came less than 24 hours after fighting game player Mikey “ Crackpr0n ” Pham alleged that Cuellar had behaved inappropriately towards him and a number of other teenage boys in the 90s and early 00s .
Following the allegations , multiple companies pulled out of the event , including Capcom , NetherRealm , and Bandai Namco , as well as players and commentators , according to PCGamer .
Evo said it will be issuing refunds to anyone who purchased a badge for Evo Online @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a donation to Project Hope equivalent to the proceeds from the event .

Fighting game tournament organizer Evo has canceled Evo Online and removed its co-founder and president from the company after serious allegations surfaced about his past behavior. The long-running esports event had previously been scheduled to take place in a new online-only format starting July 4th due to the coronavirus pandemic.
Joey Cuellar “will no longer be involved with Evo in any capacity,” the company said. Tony Cannon, another of the organization’s co-founders, will act as CEO going forward. Cuellar apologized in a tweet, and said he was “not proud of” his past actions.
The announcement of the event’s cancellation came less than 24 hours after fighting game player Mikey “Crackpr0n” Pham alleged that Cuellar had behaved inappropriately towards him and a number of other teenage boys in the 90s and early 00s. Following the allegations, multiple companies pulled out of the event, including Capcom, NetherRealm, and Bandai Namco, as well as players and commentators, according to PCGamer.


theverge--2020-07-03--Lime is relaunching Jump’s electric bikes in London

Lime is relaunching Jump ’ s electric bike-share service in London in its first move since acquiring the struggling bike brand from Uber .
To start out , the bikes will be available to rent in the Uber app only — they will added to the Lime app at a later date “ following further systems integration , ” Lime said .
A few hundred e-bikes will be available at first , and will grow with demand , the company says .
Pricing will be £1 unlock and 15 pence per minute after .
The bikes will initially be deployed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of Jump ’ s e-bikes may come as a surprise to some who were pessimistic about the brand ’ s survival following Lime ’ s acquisition in June .
The bikes were removed from all of their US and European markets after the deal , and hundreds of Jump employees were laid off .
Most distressingly , Uber sent tens of thousands of the red e-bikes to the scrapyard in a move that angered many former employees and bike enthusiasts .
At the time , Lime said it took position of “ tens @ @ @ @ @ @ @ own purposes and was “ committed to scaling and operating them during this critical time.
” In addition to offloading Jump on Lime , Uber led a $ 170 million investment round in the beleaguered Lime that dropped the scooter startup ’ s valuation by nearly 80 percent .
The UK recently recently legalized e-scooter sharing and plans to launch a pilot service starting the July 4th weekend .
In response , Lime said it has partnered with insurance firm Allianz to provide its British customers with insurance coverage at no extra cost @ @ @ @ @ @ @ policy means that riders can step onto a Lime e-scooter and ride worry-free knowing they are protected , ” Lime says .

Lime is relaunching Jump’s electric bike-share service in London in its first move since acquiring the struggling bike brand from Uber.
To start out, the bikes will be available to rent in the Uber app only — they will added to the Lime app at a later date “following further systems integration,” Lime said. A few hundred e-bikes will be available at first, and will grow with demand, the company says. Pricing will be £1 unlock and 15 pence per minute after. The bikes will initially be deployed in Camden and Islington.
The return of Jump’s e-bikes may come as a surprise to some who were pessimistic about the brand’s survival following Lime’s acquisition in June. The bikes were removed from all of their US and European markets after the deal, and hundreds of Jump employees were laid off. Most distressingly, Uber sent tens of thousands of the red e-bikes to the scrapyard in a move that angered many former employees and bike enthusiasts.
At the time, Lime said it took position of “tens of thousands” of bikes for its own purposes and was “committed to scaling and operating them during this critical time.” In addition to offloading Jump on Lime, Uber led a $170 million investment round in the beleaguered Lime that dropped the scooter startup’s valuation by nearly 80 percent.


theverge--2020-07-03--LinkedIn says it will stop repeatedly copying iOS clipboard

LinkedIn plans to stop its app from repeatedly copying the contents of an iOS device ’ s clipboard , after a user highlighted the seemingly privacy-invasive practice earlier this week .
ZDNet reports that LinkedIn called the behavior a bug .
The app copies clipboard contents in order to perform an “ equality check ” between what a user is typing and what ’ s in their clipboard , according to LinkedIn engineering VP Erran Berger .
Berger did not say why this check was necessary .
“ We don ’ t store or transmit the clipboard contents , ” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was discovered thanks to a new privacy feature in iOS 14 , which is currently in a limited beta for developers .
The operating system now notifies users when an app copies something from another app or device .
This has led to people spotting questionable behavior from apps that appear to copy clipboard contents with every keystroke .
LinkedIn was called out in a tweet on Thursday from a person who said LinkedIn ’ s iPad app was copying contents from other sources , such as a notes app .
A LinkedIn @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s tweet when asked for comment .
Berger wrote that LinkedIn would follow up “ once the fix is live in our app.
” TikTok was called out for similar behavior last week .
The app similarly appeared to be repeatedly grabbing clipboard contents as a user typed , leading to concern that it was spying on data from other apps .
TikTok said the behavior was part of an “ anti-spam ” feature and that it would discontinue the practice .
As iOS 14 rolls out more widely — a public beta @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it ’ s likely we ’ ll learn of other apps with similarly discomforting clipboard copying behaviors .

LinkedIn plans to stop its app from repeatedly copying the contents of an iOS device’s clipboard, after a user highlighted the seemingly privacy-invasive practice earlier this week. ZDNet reports that LinkedIn called the behavior a bug.
The app copies clipboard contents in order to perform an “equality check” between what a user is typing and what’s in their clipboard, according to LinkedIn engineering VP Erran Berger. Berger did not say why this check was necessary. “We don’t store or transmit the clipboard contents,” Berger wrote on Twitter.
The behavior was discovered thanks to a new privacy feature in iOS 14, which is currently in a limited beta for developers. The operating system now notifies users when an app copies something from another app or device. This has led to people spotting questionable behavior from apps that appear to copy clipboard contents with every keystroke.
LinkedIn was called out in a tweet on Thursday from a person who said LinkedIn’s iPad app was copying contents from other sources, such as a notes app. A LinkedIn spokesperson pointed The Verge to Berger’s tweet when asked for comment. Berger wrote that LinkedIn would follow up “once the fix is live in our app.”
TikTok was called out for similar behavior last week. The app similarly appeared to be repeatedly grabbing clipboard contents as a user typed, leading to concern that it was spying on data from other apps. TikTok said the behavior was part of an “anti-spam” feature and that it would discontinue the practice.