As expected, by 2028 your PC will be internally passing a terabyte’s worth of data per second as part of PCI Express 8.0. The PCI Special Interest Group said Tuesday that the PCIe 8 specification is due to be released in 2028, with speeds of 256 gigatransfers per second. In real-world terms, that works out to 1 terabyte per second being passed over a x16 connection via the PCI Express 8.0 bus. The new data rate should come as no surprise, as the SIG has consistently released iterative PCI Express standards that double the available bandwidth about every three years. In June, the PCIe SIG formally announced the PCI Express 7 specification, projected to be released in 2027. At that time, the SIG disclosed the existence of PCIe 8 without the bandwidth data, but the projection was easy enough to make. The timing of it all can be a bit confusing. Practically, the fastest PCI Express devices currently available for the PC, such as the fastest PC SSDs, use the PCI Express 5 protocol — 128GB/s at x16 speeds. Last week, the first PCI Express 6.0 SSD shipped: the Micron 9650, which can hypothetically process 256GB/s at a time. (They can’t, in reality. The drive reads of up to 28,000 MB/s — which is roughly 13 percent under the peak PCIe 6.0 bandwidth, with sequential writes of 14,000 MB/s.) The graphic below shows the progression of PCI Express speeds, but also hints as the hypothetical limits of certain components, too. SSDs typically use a x4 interface, so they’ll have a maximum hypothetical data rate of 256GB/s under PCI Express 8, versus the 32GB/s they operate under with the current PCI Express 5. Graphics cards, conversely, use a x16 connection, meaning that PCIe 8 will supply about seven times more bandwidth than it does today. PCI-SIG The Micron 9650, however, is aimed at data centers, not the PC. Micron’s release of the 9650 coincides with our report that the PCI Express 6.0 integrator’s list of actual PCIe 6 hardware will be released this year, though data centers and AI may gobble up all of the available hardware. Silicon Motion’s CEO told Tom’s Hardware that the company doesn’t expect PCI Express 6.0 to appear in PCs for a few years. That’s what the PCIe SIG is saying for the first PCIe 8.0 devices, too: they’ll be used for artificial intelligence and machine learning first and foremost, then high-speed networking and quantum computing. “As artificial intelligence and other data-intensive applications continue to scale rapidly, PCIe technology demand will be sustained in the long run due to its high bandwidth, scalability and power efficiency,” said Reece Hayden, principal analyst at ABI Research, as quoted by the PCI-SIG. “Data center networks are already preparing to implement PCIe 6.0 technology and are showing great interest in the PCIe 7.0 specification. The introduction of the PCIe 8.0 specification further ensures that the industry’s bandwidth requirements will be supported well into the future.” A graphic from the PCI-SIG shows how PCI Express bandwidth has increased over time.PCI-SIG A terabyte’s worth of bandwidth, though, is no joke, and neither are the thermal issues that come with it. The two key problems that need to be addressed are when AMD, Intel, and Qualcomm plan to add PCI Express 6 to their PC roadmaps — let alone 7 or 8 — and how device makers will deal with the corresponding increase in heat that the increased bandwidth will bring with it. Read...

Google knows what we search for, where we go, who we email—and diligently stores it all as well. For many users, this has long been too much of a “good thing”. If you want to live a more digitally self-determined life, you can gradually turn your back on the data giant from Silicon Valley. But to do that means you’ll also need to find alternatives for services such as Google Search, Gmail, Maps etc. Sounds like a lot of effort? It doesn’t have to be. We show you how you can gain more privacy with just a few clicks. Without sacrificing convenience: Replace Google search: No more data snooping Data protection instead of a data octopus: DuckDuckGo shows search results without tracking or personalized advertising.Sam Singleton Google search delivers brilliant results—but it lets them look deep into your personal life. If you don’t want to be tracked while surfing, you can rely on search engines that take privacy seriously. DuckDuckGo DuckDuckGo is perhaps the best-known Google alternative. It completely dispenses with tracking, does not store IP addresses and still delivers solid results, especially for general search queries. No user profiles are created and no search histories are recorded. The results come from a mix of its own crawlers and partly from Bing, but occasionally with slightly less accuracy compared to Google. Pro: Pure data protection, quick and simple changeover from other search engines (also mobile). Cons: Fewer personalized hits, weaker results for niche topics. Startpage Startpage shows anonymized Google search results—without any tracking, cookies or personalized advertising. This means we get the usual quality of Google searches without our personal data being stored. The service originates from the Netherlands and is subject to European data protection standards. Pro: Best results with privacy. Cons: Slightly longer loading times, adverts in the mix (but they’re discreet). Gmail? No thanks: Emails without readers Tutanota is a German email provider with a zero-tracking philosophy.Sam Singleton Google scans emails (usually automatically) to personalize advertising and services. If you prefer a more discreet approach, switch to a mail provider with a focus on security. Thankfully, we have plenty of choices, as Gmail is one of the Google services that is easiest to replace. Proton Mail Proton Mail is a secure e-mail service from Switzerland that consistently focusses on data protection. Emails between Proton Mail users are automatically end-to-end encrypted, and password protection can be set up for external recipients. The servers are located in Switzerland and are therefore subject to strict data protection laws. The web interface is modern and easy to understand, there are apps for Android and iOS as well as a bridge for classic mail programs. Pro: Strong encryption, servers outside the USA. Cons: Interface takes some getting used to, limited storage in the free plan. Do without Android: De-Googling your smartphone /e/OS is a completely “de-Googled” open source operating systemSam Singleton Android may be open source, but the Google services it contains are not. If you want a smartphone that is as “Google-free” as possible, you have to dig deeper into your bag of tricks—or try something completely new. /e/OS /e/OS is a privacy-friendly Android operating system that works completely without Google services. Instead, it offers its own apps, an alternative app store (Aurora Store) and synchronization via its own /e/ cloud. Many well-known smartphones (such as Samsung and Fairphone) can be reloaded with /e/OS or purchased pre-installed as a “de-Googled Phone”. It’s ideal for everyone who wants to use Android without being tracked by Google. Pro: Compatible with Android apps, many devices supported. Cons: Somewhat technical to set up, not all apps run perfectly. GrapheneOS (for advanced users) GrapheneOS is a particularly secure Android derivative that was specially developed for Pixel smartphones. It is aimed at experienced users and focusses on maximum security, system hardening, and data protection. Google services are not included as standard, but can be installed manually if required (sandboxed)—GrapheneOS is not designed for the “normal” use of Google services. Pro: Extremely secure, hardly any data leakage. Cons: For technology fans, not “plug & play”, requires some know-how and effort Goodbye Google Maps: How to navigate with privacy Map service without tracking: The open source app Organic Maps does not use advertising, does not collect any user data, and works completely offline.Sam Singleton Google Maps knows our routes—oftentimes better than we do. Fortunately, there are alternatives for privacy fans that come with less prying eyes. Organic Maps Organic Maps is an open source navigation app that is based on OSM (OpenStreetMap) maps and works completely without an internet connection. The app does not use tracking or advertising, which makes it particularly privacy-friendly. Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and anyone who wants to navigate reliably offline, Organic Maps also offers practical functions such as route planning and voice prompts. Pro: Works without the internet, ideal for travelling. Cons: No traffic data, weaker POI search. Magic Earth The Magic Earth map service combines OpenStreetMap data with its own maps and provides a privacy-friendly alternative to Google Maps. In addition to navigation, the app also offers real-time traffic information, offline maps and an overview of cycle paths and footpaths. With a focus on privacy, Magic Earth does away with user tracking and advertising, but remains functional and user-friendly. Pro: Good maps, many features, no data transfer. Cons: Less well-known places are sometimes harder to find. Byebye Google Chrome: Fast, but nosy Far less widespread than Chrome – but a real high-flyer in terms of data protection and customisation: the Firefox browser.Sam Singleton Chrome is the top dog among browsers, but it’s also a real data hoover. If you want to surf without being watched, you can switch to these alternatives: Firefox Firefox is the classic among free browsers—fast, secure, expandable. Developed by the Mozilla Foundation, Firefox places great emphasis on transparency and data protection. The browser is flexible and can be highly customized with numerous add-ons: from ad blockers to cookie control. Pro: Many data protection add-ons, active community. Cons: Sometimes a little slower than Chrome. Brave Brave is a Chromium browser with in-built tracking protection and ad blocker. It blocks adverts, trackers, and fingerprinting by default, even without extensions. Pro: Very fast, good privacy by default. Cons: Partial crypto integration, which not everyone wants. No more Google Docs: texts and spreadsheets with better data protections ONLYOFFICE is a really strong alternative to Google Docs.Sam Singleton Practical, collaborative, usable everywhere: these are the strengths of Google Docs. But if you don’t want to store your documents on US servers, there are also good alternatives. ONLYOFFICE ONLYOFFICE is a powerful office suite that works with Word, Excel and PowerPoint-compatible documents and works both online and offline. The platform is particularly suitable for team collaboration and offers extensive functions for word processing, spreadsheets, and presentations. Compared to Google Docs, ONLYOFFICE offers more control over your own data, as the software can also be installed on your own servers. Pro: Compatible with Word, Excel & Co. Cons: Somewhat technical to get started (but easy to use in the cloud). CryptPad CryptPad is a web-based office suite that places particular emphasis on data protection and security by storing all data end-to-end encrypted. Users can work together on documents, spreadsheets or presentations without the operator having access to the content. Ideal for anyone who values anonymous use and maximum data sovereignty. CryptPad also offers functions such as surveys, whiteboards, and markdown editors. Pro: Can be used completely anonymously, no registration required. Cons: Fewer functions, not ideal for large teams. Alternatives for Google Drive: Cloud storage without data snooping Tresorit is a cloud provider from Switzerland with a focus on security for teams and individuals.Sam Singleton Google Drive is convenient, but scans content for its own purposes. If you prefer encrypted storage, you should take a look at these services: Tresorit The cloud storage service Tresorit is based in Switzerland and focuses on security and end-to-end encryption. Files are encrypted before being uploaded so that even Tresorit has no access to the content. The servers are located in Europe, which is a clear advantage for users from the EU in terms of data protection. Ideal for companies and private individuals who want to store and share sensitive data securely online. Pro: End-to-end encryption, GDPR-compliant. Cons: More expensive than Google Drive. Snyc.com The Canadian cloud service Sync.com relies on zero-knowledge encryption. This means that only you have access to your data, not the provider. The service is easy to use, offers apps for all platforms and is ideal for team collaboration. There are no trackers or adverts here either, and even with the free entry-level plan you can get a lot done. It’s a strong Google Drive replacement with significantly more privacy. Pro: Good usability, can also be used free of charge. Cons: Sometimes slower uploads, English-language version. Google Photos is not irreplaceable: Archive your memories without the prying eyes Immich is a self-hosting photo management system with AI functions – without Google.Sam Singleton Google recognizes faces, places, and objects in pictures. And while this is impressive, it’s too much for many people. If you want to store your photos securely, you need alternatives. Immich Immich is an open-source solution for managing and backing up photos on your own server or NAS. The user interface is reminiscent of Google Photos—including face recognition, albums, timelines and AI-supported search. All data remains local and under your own control. Ideal for anyone who wants maximum privacy and is prepared to bring some technical know-how to the table. Pro: Face recognition locally, no cloud compulsion. Cons: Technical expertise required. Internxt Photos Simple cloud service with a focus on encryption: Internxt Photos stores images in the cloud—completely end-to-end encrypted so that no one but you can access them. The app is simple, functional and available for desktop and mobile devices. It has server locations in numerous place including in the EU, and no advertising or tracking. Particularly suitable for anyone who wants to store their photos securely online without relying on big tech providers. Pro: GDPR-compliant, intuitive operation. Cons: Fewer features than Google Photos. Bonus tip: Independence from YouTube—is that even possible? YouTube is hard to replace – also because you can find The Full Nerd videos there.Sam Singleton To be honest: not really. YouTube is not just a video portal, but has long been a gigantic archive for tutorials, documentaries, music, live streams and nerd knowledge. If you don’t use it at all, you’re missing out on a lot. Nevertheless, there are ways to become at least a little more independent—or to use YouTube more sparingly. NewPipe NewPipe is an alternative YouTube app for Android (for using YouTube) that works without a Google account, does not show adverts and also has a background mode on board. Pro: No registration required, no tracking, videos can be downloaded directly. Cons: Only for Android, no commenting or liking possible. Peertube Peertube is a free, decentralized video network that sees itself as a counterpart to YouTube. Content comes from many small instances, without a nosy large corporation behind it. Unlike the NewPipe app presented above, it’s a genuine alternative to YouTube with its very own content. Pro: Open source, ad-free, community-based. Cons: Smaller offering, difficult to browse. Conclusion: Escaping the Google universe step by step In the modern, digitalized world, living without Google is almost as difficult as living without electricity. But it is possible, at least in part. If you consciously look for alternatives, you can reduce tracking, strengthen data protection, and gain more control over your own data. Opting out doesn’t have to be a radical break: even small steps (such as an alternative browser or a new search engine) can have a big impact. Read...

Electric vehicles (EVs) are clearly the future, but what’s available today all feels very samey, and nothing is truly versatile. If you are struggling to get excited about EVs, the FX Super One from Faraday Future could be about to change your mind. More than just an EV, the FX Super One is innovation on wheels. Combining cutting-edge technology, versatility, and affordability, this is a luxury vehicle that completely redefines what an EV can be. If you’re balancing family life and business travel, the FX Super One is built for you. With all the features you need, designed to catch the eye and keep you comfortable, and offering multiple ways to stay connected on the road, this is the EV all busy, eco-conscious drivers have been waiting for. The FX Super One introduces Embodied AI Agent (EAI), a technology that transforms the way drivers interact with vehicles. It’s an integrated smart system that learns your preferences, predicts your needs, and offers real-time recommendations to ensure every drive is smooth, safe, and efficient. Be first to experience the Faraday Future EV revolutionView FX Super One Faraday Future What to expect from the Faraday Future FX Super One The FX Super One features dual-motor all-wheel drive, letting you pick between pure electric or AI Hybrid Extended Range. While the first is fantastic for daily drives and city trips, the latter is perfect for long journeys without the anxiety of how long the battery will last. A triple high-strength cage body structure and side curtain airbags provide 360-degree safety, no matter how far you travel. From voice commands to adaptive route planning, the FX Super One’s smart system ensures the vehicle constantly evolves to meet your expectations.   Faraday Future If the built-in AI didn’t already make the experience feel more personable, the literal face on the front of this EV will. To be more specific, the Super EAI Front AI Communication Ecosystem (F.A.C.E.) includes an LED screen that sits on the front fascia, making this EV one of a kind. You can create your own avatar to display here, which then lets the AI agent express emotions and foster a sense of personality and higher intelligence that is fully in sync with its driver. Inside, the cabin is gorgeous, spacious, and comfortable. It serves as a mobile lounge, with fully adjustable zero-gravity seats available for all FX Super One models. Every journey in this EV offers a space and time for your passengers to recharge, to relax, or even to work. There’s plenty of space here to set up your laptop on a fold-out table, be entertained with media playing on an immersive widescreen with Dolby Atmos surround sound, or even enjoy a refreshing beverage – hot or cold, thanks to a smart all-temperature onboard fridge. Faraday Future How to buy the Faraday Future FX Super One Final pricing has not been confirmed, but Faraday Future promises groundbreaking technology at an accessible price point. You can get early access to the first models off the assembly line when you pay a fully refundable pre-order deposit of $100. The FX Super One will come in six variants, with two powertrain options available with a choice of four-, six- or seven seats. There’s a perfect model for everyone, whether you’re a solo driver or planning family or business travel. The FX Super One isn’t just a vehicle, it’s an experience. Only here will you find a lifestyle upgrade, practicality, and cutting-edge technology, all in one package. Get early access to this smart, spacious MPV built for the future with a fully refundable $100 depositPre-order FX Super One Read...

Primary school children say using AI sometimes feels like cheating and teachers warn their `Luddite` colleagues are `freaking out` about the technology. Read...

TechHive Editors Choice At a glanceExpert`s Rating Pros Matter controller and bridge, with Thread and Zigbee radios 2K video resolution with a tall, 4:3 aspect ratio mmWave presence detection reduces false alerts Compatibile with Alexa, Google, SmartThings, IFTTT Supports Apple HomeKit Secure Video and RTSP Cons Motion-triggered video recordings limited to 12 seconds No HDR support, limiting performance in mixed or backlit conditions Weak weatherization rating: IPX3 Zigbee radio only supports Aqara’s Zigbee devices Our Verdict If you don’t already have a strong smart home hub, the Aqara Doorbell Camera Hub G410 can kill two birds with one stone. Price When Reviewed This value will show the geolocated pricing text for product undefined Best Pricing Today Best Prices Today: Aqara Doorbell Camera Hub G410 Retailer Price $129.99 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Product Price Price comparison from Backmarket Describing the Aqara Doorbell Camera Hub G410 as just another video doorbell is like dismissing the quirky VW ID. Buzz as a run-of-the-mill minivan. Sure, it will keep an eye on your front porch, but it can also control all the other smart devices in your home, thanks to the presence of Bluetooth, Thread, dual-band Wi-Fi, and Zigbee radios; Matter support; compatibility with Amazon Alexa, Google Home, Samsung SmartThings, IFTTT, and Apple’s HomeKit Secure Video; and a 24/7 recording option with RTSP support for hardcore users. One caveat: Its Zigbee support is limited to Aqara’s own Zigbee devices. It’s still a massive step up from the Aqara Smart Video Doorbell G4 that TechHive reviewed in the spring of 2024, addressing nearly every criticism leveled at that earlier product. And like that unit, this one comes with a remote AC-powered chime with local storage for the doorbell’s video clips, provided by a microSD card slot (card capacities up to 512GB are supported, but you’ll need to provide one). The chime can get quite loud: up to 95dB. The Aqara Doorbell Camera Hub G410’s most transformative feature is invisible: It’s a full-fledged smart home hub. Aqara wisely carried over that earlier doorbell camera’s facial recognition feature, while boosting its video resolution from 1080p to 2K (2048 x 1536 pixels) and adding millimeter wave (mmWave) motion detection. All that said, Aqara did make one significant change that will disappoint some buyers; one that might even prevent a few G4 owners from considering an upgrade. More on that in a bit. Design, durability, and weather resistance The Aqara G410 video doorbell doesn’t feature a sleek design, but the ringer button is easy for visitors to locate.Aqara The industrial design of Aqara Doorbell Camera Hub G410 very closely resembles that of the earlier G4 model, measuring 5.57 × 2.56 × 1.2 inches (HxWxD). It’s available in black or gray, both available on Amazon, but there’s also a Select model that’s available in black or white. It’s unclear if the Select model has any additional features beyond a three-month HomeGuardian trial, compared to the 1-month offer that comes with the base model. Like the G4, the G410 is rated IPX3 for protection from the elements. According to our IP code guide, that means Aqara makes no claims for protection against particulate matter ingress, but that the camera is protected against water sprayed at up to a 60-degree angle on either side of vertical. Given that mild IP code, I would recommend installing this doorbell under an eave or awning and not subjecting it to extremely wet climates. Installation and setup It took me less than 15 minutes to set up the Aqara G410, from unboxing to completion. The remote chime I mentioned earlier doubles as a Matter-certified smart home hub (it’s a Matter bridge and controller and a Thread border router). It bears repeating, however, that its Zigbee radio can only control Aqara’s own Zigbee products. But before you get to any of that, you’ll need to charge the doorbell’s battery by plugging the provided USB-C to USB-A cable into a AC adapter (one that you’ll need to provide). I’d previously installed the Aqara phone app during testing of the excellent Camera Hub G3, and that app controls setup for the G410 as well. There’s not much in the way of printed instructions, but once the app recognizes the G410, the in-app directions are clear, and it was easy to connect the doorbell to my Wi-Fi network. The doorbell comes with a small screwdriver to help with installation. You’ll need it to separate the backplate for adding the batteries or attaching the electrical wires for power.James Barber/Foundry The G410 can operate on battery power, but it can also take advantage of hardwired power (from a 12V-24V AC or DC transformer) if you’re replacing an existing wired doorbell, or if you want to pull wire to a newly installed transformer. Your existing chime, however, will not work with the new doorbell. Nearly every video doorbell I’ve tested has been too wide to fit in the narrow gap between my home’s doorframe and brick façade, so I opted for a wireless installation. I installed six AA batteries into the unit and stuck it to the wall next to my front door, using the angled shim to give a better view of someone standing on my porch. While I’m sure the doorbell’s adhesive option would work well on glass or tile, or wood, fiber-cement, vinyl, or similar types of siding, it’s not appropriate for brick. I had to reattach the unit with some industrial strength mounting tape after a week because doorbell’s adhesive failed and it fell off the wall. That’s not meant as criticism of the G410, it’s just an advisory to anyone who wants to install the doorbell on masonry: Be prepared for the messy task of drilling holes and hammering lead anchors into them. I installed Aqara’s hub/chime unit in my kitchen, about 20 yards from the doorbell, which is much further than Aqara’s recommendation of a distance less than 5 meters (about 16 feet). Aqara also recommends the chime be no further than 20 meters (about 66 feet) from your Wi-Fi router. When I first installed the doorbell and chime, I got a weak signal warning in the app. After I moved a vintage metal stand mixer in the kitchen out of the line of sight between the doorbell and chime, however, the signal strength jumped to five bars out of six. Sharper, smarter, and taller video James Barber/Foundry As I’ve already mentioned, the G410’s camera is a significant upgrade over the one in the earlier G4. In addition to boosting its resolution from 1080p to 2K, the new camera also has a taller aspect ratio (4:3 vs. 16:9), which captures visitors from head to toe, along with any packages left on the porch near your door—provided you install the camera in the right place. When I first tested the unit with the ringer button at the same height as the home’s original doorbell, I couldn’t see anything on the ground. I got much better results after lowering it by a few inches. Exceptionally tall visitors will need to bend slightly to ring the bell at that height, but that shouldn’t be a major inconvenience for them. The video quality is strikingly improved, especially in daylight. Its 176-degree diagonal field of view and f/1.8 aperture lens deliver a crisp, bright image, with better dynamic range. It’s still not HDR, but it’s more than good enough for its task. In low light, the improvement over the G4 is less dramatic but still noticeable, with less murkiness and more detail around faces. The results are more than adequate for recognizing visitors and monitoring deliveries. Vastly improved motion detection What’s missing from this kit? A USB-A power adapter for the chime. You’ll need to provide your own.James Barber/Foundry Aqara added a millimeter-wave (mmWave) presence sensor, a substantial upgrade from the G4’s PIR (passive infrared) motion sensor, which could miss people who stood still. Shadows and pets could also trigger that sensor. Unlike PIR, mmWave technology can detect a human presence based on micro-movements, even if someone is standing quietly on your porch. This feature drastically reduced false positives while making notifications faster and more relevant. Passing cars and sidewalk pedestrians don’t trigger irrelevant alerts on my iPhone or Apple Watch, something that has been an ongoing issue with my Ring Doorbell Pro. Motion-triggered recordings are still limited to 12 seconds when you use the free cloud storage plan or local microSD storage. If you want longer clips, you must use Apple’s HomeKit Secure Video or set up 24/7 local recording, although the latter requires you to hardwire the doorbell to a power source. On a positive note, Aqara has made the triggers much smarter. On-device facial recognition can now tie directly into automations, not only in Aqara’s app but across Matter-compatible ecosystems, including Home Assistant. You can trigger a compatible smart deadbolt on your door to unlock when the camera recognizes a family member, for instance. You can also program the doorbell to turn on your smart porch light when anyone approaches the door at night. Aqara lets you transform alerts into actions. A complete Matter hub Aqara’s most transformative change is invisible. The G410 is now a full-fledged smart home hub, with a built-in Matter bridge and controller, Zigbee hub (once again, one that’s limited to Aqara’s own Zigbee devices), a Thread border router, and a dual-band Wi-Fi adapter. That means the G410 can do much more than just show you who’s at the door, it can be your smart home’s brain. RTSP and HomeKit Secure Video support Backside views of the  Aqara Doorbell Camera Hub G410 and chime.James Barber/Foundry Apple users will be interested to know that the Aqara Doorbell Camera Hub G410 supports Apple’s HomeKit Secure Video (HKSV), which stores encrypted security camera recordings in their iCloud accounts. Be aware, however, that this requires a paid iCloud subscription with at least 50GB of storage (you’ll need a plan that provides 200GB for up to five cameras, and 2TB for an unlimited number of cameras). Also, the resolution of video recordings stored in your iCloud will be limited to 1200p (a somewhat curious claim, as all the available information on HKSV that I can find indicates Apple limits such video resolution to 1080p). Not to make a mountain out of a mole hill, but Aqara’s statement that HomeKit Secure Video recordings will be limited to resolution 1200p seems to contradict Apple’s reporting that resolution will be limited to 1080p. Michael Brown/Foundry Whatever the case may be, other hardcore home surveillance system fans will be interested in knowing that the camera hub also supports RTSP (Real-Time Streaming Protocol). That gives you the ability to store its video recordings—including 24/7 recording—on a networked video recorder (NVR), a network-attached storage device (NAS), or with third-party smart home platforms such as Blue Iris and Home Assistant. While RTSP itself doesn’t impose a resolution limit, your network limitations might impose a practical limit. And in this case, using RTSP depends on the doorbell camera’s being hardwired to a power source. The feature is not available when it’s running on battery power. Speaking of battery power, Aqara says the G410 should run on battery power for up to five months, based on 10 activations per day. More frequent visitors and/or inclement weather will reduce that time. For me, the battery level as reported by the app still reads 100 percent after several weeks of use. More cloud options, and the return of the subscription Finally, here’s the caveat I mentioned earlier that might prevent Aqara G4 Smart Wireless Video Doorbell owners from upgrading: The G410 doesn’t include the G4’s offer of a rolling seven days of video storage in Aqara’s cloud for free. What you get instead is one day of rolling storage for 6 months, unless you sign up for Aqara’s HomeGuardian subscription service to get up to 90 days of encrypted storage in the cloud. That subscription costs $5/month ($50/year) for a single Aqara camera, and $10/month ($100/year) for an unlimited number of Aqara cameras. It’s a notable shift, but it’s one that’s in line with what most of the competition is doing. Should you buy the Aqara Doorbell Camera Hub G410? With its Doorbell Camera Hub G410, Aqara delivers almost everything Aqara Smart Video Doorbell G4 users have been asking for: Sharper video, smarter presence detection, and better integration with other platforms, including Matter. Add in all the new smart home features, HomeKit Secure Video and RTSP support, and you have an easy TechHive Editors’ Choice winner. That said, the G410 is not perfect. Its stock video clips are short, its weatherization features leave a bit to be desired, and Aqara has moved away from its offer of 7 days of free cloud storage to nudge you toward paying for a subscription. But if you’re looking for a doorbell that can also serve as a hub for your entire smart home, it deserves serious consideration. This review is part of TechHive’s in-depth coverage of the best video doorbells. Read...

You want to print something, but what if Windows 11 can’t find your printer? A classic case of technology with an opinion of its own: The printer is there and switched on. Still, it doesn’t show up. This can happen after an update, restart, or when switching to a new device. The good news is that the problem can usually be solved quickly with a few simple steps. 1. Is everything properly plugged in? It sounds simple, but this is one of the most common causes of technical problems: a loose USB cable, a switched-off WLAN printer, or the wrong network. Make sure the printer is actually turned on, connected to the correct WLAN (for wireless printers), and that all cables are securely in place. A quick restart of the printer and PC can often work wonders and is worth trying before diving into deeper troubleshooting. 2. Adding a printer manually Windows recognizes many devices automatically, but not all. If your printer doesn’t show up, go to Settings > Bluetooth & devices > Printers & Scanners > Add device. If it still doesn’t appear after a few seconds, look for the line: The desired printer is not listed. Click Add manually to launch the setup wizard and guide Windows through the process. 3. Update drivers If Windows doesn’t recognize the printer, the driver is likely missing. Visit the manufacturer’s website and download the latest Windows 11-compatible software for your model. It’s a quick and straightforward fix that resolves many issues. 4. If nothing helps Windows comes with its own repair tool for resolving issues, including printer problems. Go to Settings > System > Troubleshooting > Other troubleshooters, then find and run the Printers troubleshooter. Give it a moment. The system may sort itself out on its own. Conclusion Windows 11 has its own peculiarities, printing included. Fortunately, most problems can be solved quickly with a few simple steps, a new driver, or even just a basic restart. If the problems persist, the printer itself may be faulty or outdated. Read...

DXC Technology and 7AI have launched a global AI-powered security service, boosting efficiency and cutting analyst workload across DXC`s customer base. Read...

Whether you’re buying a high-end gaming desktop, a compact mini PC, or simply docking your laptop, those accessories you bought 5+ years ago might be showing their age—and even dragging you down. Believe me when I say that you’ll have a much better PC experience if you upgrade with a handful of accessories that most people overlook or underestimate. After I recently set up my own high-end gaming PC, I realized the blazing-fast GPU and CPU weren’t enough. For a truly elevated experience, I needed to ditch my outdated tech. Here are some next-level accessories and peripherals you should actually consider upgrading to, and why they’re worth every penny. A sharp IR webcam with facial recognition The best modern webcams have built-in infrared capabilities, allowing you to sign into your desktop PC using your face (instead of a password), just as you can on a modern laptop. When I sit down at my desktop, I hit the spacebar on my keyboard to wake up my PC, then the webcam instantly signs me in using my face thanks to Windows Hello. No typing of a PIN or password. It may sound small, but it still feels magically easy whenever I wake my PC from sleep. But the IR camera is just one part of a webcam package. I use a Dell UltraSharp webcam, which combines facial recognition with a 4K sensor. It’s one of our favorite Windows Hello webcams. Now I don’t look blurry and unprofessional in my meetings and recorded videos. Dell UltraSharp 4K Webcam (WB7022) Best Prices Today: $155.39 at Amazon | $175.99 at Dell Home A high-quality mechanical keyboard Mechanical keyboards are one of the best things about using a desktop PC. Even the rare gaming laptop with a built-in mechanical keyboard can’t reproduce the tactile joy of typing on crisp keys with satisfying switches. Plus, mechanical keyboards are customizable—the keycaps, the switches, the RGB, and almost anything else about them. Take a look at PCWorld’s list of the best mechanical keyboards for shopping advice. You owe it to yourself to try one. If you’d like to save some desk space and don’t find yourself using the number pad on full-sized keyboards, no worries! Consider a TKL (“tenkeyless”) keyboard, which is more compact and omits the number pad. Keychron Q3 Max keyboard Read our review Best Prices Today: $229.99 at Amazon A separate keypad for macros Back in 2005, PC geeks loved the idea of the “Optimus keyboard” that sadly turned out to be vaporware. The idea was flashy: a keyboard where every key was actually a little mini display, and the images on each key could change based on context. Twenty years later, I recommend grabbing a Stream Deck if that sort of thing sounds interesting. With its customizable keys, you can seriously boost your productivity by configuring each key to trigger actions, launch apps, automate tasks, and perform keyboard shortcuts. I love the Stream Deck Neo, which is compact and feels just right next to my TKL keyboard that lacks bonus macro keys. For me, the Stream Deck Neo is an essential accessory that speeds up my workflow. Elgato Stream Deck Neo Best Prices Today: $99.99 at Amazon A comfortable mouse that fits your hand I can’t tell you what the “right mouse” is for you, but I can tell you that finding the right mouse will make a world of difference. If you’re on the computer for hours every day, it’s critical that you’re using a mouse that’s actually comfortable in hand. Are you already happy with your mouse? Perfect! Nothing to see here, hop on down to the next accessory. But if you aren’t happy with your mouse, it’s time to make that upgrade. You won’t regret it. Check out PCWorld’s recommendations—best wireless gaming mice, best budget gaming mice, and best overall gaming mice—and try out mice in person at local stores if you can. The various shapes of mice will feel different depending on your grip style, and there’s a lot else that goes into comfort, including size, design, and button placement. Razer Cobra Pro Read our review Best Prices Today: $98.99 at Best Buy | $104.99 at Amazon A fresh fabric mousepad Not all mousepads are equal. In fact, most mousepads aren’t great. The average mousepad is designed more for looks than for performance. Meanwhile, there are uber-premium mousepads with built-in wireless charging that are luxurious but arguably overkill. I recommend getting a mousepad with a fabric surface. I’m a big fan of SteelSeries QcK mousepads because they’re pretty inexpensive—as cheap as $11 for the medium-sized one I use. The cloth surface feels great and will help you move your mouse precisely and accurately. Learn more about the differences between hard and soft mousepads. My first QcK mousepad lasted eight years before I replaced it with a new one. At this rate, I expect I’ll buy a third one in another eight years. SteelSeries QcK Series (Medium) A stunningly beautiful 4K OLED monitor It’s tempting to get a new PC and plug it straight into your existing monitor—and you can definitely do that if you want to. There’s no rule that says you have to buy a new monitor with a new PC. But if your monitor is dated or low-spec, an upgrade could be massive. Things like 4K resolution, HDR technology, vivid OLED colors, and high refresh rates are more than just marketing terms. They’re actual benefits that you don’t want to miss out on, at least if you want a high-end PC experience while streaming videos or playing games. And the best part? You can get an incredible PC monitor for a lot less than you might think. Check out our list of the best monitors and maybe even see a few displays in person at a local store to see how they compare. MSI MPG 272URX Read our review Best Prices Today: $1,099 at Amazon | $1099.99 at MSI Desktop speakers worthy of your PC Speakers aren’t like most other PC peripherals. You can have a fantastic experience with the right PC speakers from decades ago. But the average pair of inexpensive speakers—and especially the speakers built into most PC monitors—don’t offer a great audio experience. If you use speakers with your PC on the regular, consider investing in a better setup. I own a pair of Audioengine A2 Plus desktop speakers purchased nearly a decade ago, and they’re still going strong. They’re convenient for any desk—just two speakers with no subwoofer required, though you can add a subwoofer for more bass if you want. Audioengine A2 Plus Best Prices Today: $279 at Amazon Comfortable, high-quality headphones How are your headphones? You don’t necessarily need modern headphones—if you have a pair you love, then great! Stick with ’em. And if you don’t use headphones at all, fine. Jump on down to the next item. But if you’ve been settling for a lesser pair of headphones, you should make the upgrade. A high-quality set of cans will transform your audio experience, whether you’re listening to music or gaming. And unless you’re an audiophile, make sure to prioritize comfort over sound quality. My Sennheiser headphones were on their last legs and I had already repaired them once with a soldering iron. It was time for something new, so I bought Beyerdynamic DT 900 Pro X headphones and love them! You don’t know what you’re missing out on until you get there. Check out our list of the best gaming headsets, but if you don’t want an integrated microphone or wireless audio, you don’t need a gaming-specific headset. Headphones can be bulky, though, so I also recommend using an AnchorPro under-desk hook. Beyerdynamic DT 900 PRO X Best Prices Today: $269.99 at Amazon A microphone that sounds great Microphones are often overlooked, but they shouldn’t be. Whether you’re participating in video meetings, recording videos, or just voice chatting while gaming, a good microphone is a solid upgrade. After mixed experiences with microphones built into headsets, I bought a Logitech Blue Yeti a few years ago and haven’t looked back. It’s big, but the sound quality is amazing for the price range. You’ll see professionals using these in YouTube videos, and for good reason. If you’d rather add a microphone to a headset you already love, there’s always the classic ModMic, too. It’s a microphone you can attach to your existing pair of preferred headphones. Logitech Blue Yeti Best Prices Today: $87.99 at Best Buy | $89.99 at Logitech G | $89.99 at Logitech Gaming A dongle-free gaming controller If you’re a PC gamer who uses an older Xbox controller, it may be time to replace it. A modern Xbox controller connects to your PC wirelessly via Bluetooth, and you can also use it as a wired controller by plugging it in with a USB-C cable. Older ones rely on those obnoxious wireless receiver dongles, and who wants to deal with those anymore? Meanwhile, if you don’t have a PC gaming controller, maybe it’s time to get one. Keyboard-and-mouse setups are fine, but sometimes it’s nice to kick back with a controller. Not sure where to begin? Check out our guide to buying a PC gaming controller you’ll love. Microsoft Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 (Xbox One/PC) Best Prices Today: $135.86 at Amazon Further reading: The most life-changing PC desk accessories Read...

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