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New low price: The 27-inch LG Ultragear OLED QHD gaming monitor is on sale at Amazon for under $400

Mashable - 5 hours 21 min ago

SAVE $200: The 27-inch LG Ultragear OLED QHD gaming monitor is on sale at Amazon for $399.99, down from the list price of $599.99. That's a 33% discount and the lowest price we've seen at Amazon.

Opens in a new window Credit: LG 27-inch LG Ultragear OLED QHD gaming monitor $399.99 at Amazon
$599.99 Save $200   Get Deal

Some tech can be considered nice to have. Other gadgets tend to fall into the category of necessary to function in modern society. A crisp and clear gaming monitor isn't necessary to survive in the real world, but it might be necessary to survive the in-game world. If your current gaming monitor is causing issues, check out this deal.

As of July 29, the 27-inch LG Ultragear OLED QHD gaming monitor is on sale at Amazon for $399.99, marked down from the normal price of $599.99. That's a 33% discount that takes $200 off. It's also the lowest price we've seen at Amazon.

With a 27-inch OLED display, a 280Hz refresh rate, and 0.03 millisecond response time, the LG Ultragear is well worth the investment for your home gaming setup. LG says this is the brand's brightest OLED gaming monitor yet which means you're in for crisp and clear contrast, reaching up to 1,500 nits.

SEE ALSO: The Hisense 65-inch E7 Cinema Series TV is over $400 off at Amazon — buy for the best-ever price

The LG Switch app allows for customization of the monitor like adjusting the brightness, applying setting with a hotkey, and selecting between 11 split-screen layouts. Plus, the gaming monitor comes with two HDMI 2.1 ports.

Since this is a record-low price at Amazon, consider upgrading to the 27-inch LG Ultragear OLED QHD gaming monitor. It'll enhance your in-game and out-of-game experiences for under $400.

Categories: IT General, Technology

It's finally time to replace your old Pixel 6

How-To Geek - 5 hours 34 min ago

The Google Pixel 6, the first Pixel phone to ship with Google's Tensor chip, will celebrate its fifth birthday soon. That means with Android 17, the Pixel 6 has received its final major Android update, and official support is coming to an end. If you're still rocking one, it's finally time to start thinking about an upgrade.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Apple Upgrade program: Common questions about Apples new leasing program, answered

Mashable - 5 hours 38 min ago

Apple has launched Apple Upgrade, a new leasing program for iPhone, Apple Watch, Mac, and iPad, available online, in the Apple Store app, and at Apple retail locations across the United States. The program replaces the old Apple iPhone Upgrade program, which is winding down for new customers, and shifts financing duties from Citizens One to Klarna.

As tech prices continue to climb and smartphone sales decline, Apple Upgrade would give customers a new way to try the latest Apple devices. The program arrives just a couple of months before Apple is expected to unveil the iPhone 18.

Unlike the previous program, which functioned as a loan that eventually transferred ownership of the device to the customer, Apple Upgrade is structured explicitly as a lease. Customers pay a monthly fee to use a device for a fixed term, and at the end of that term, they can upgrade to something new, pay a purchase fee to keep the device, or return it and walk away. If they do nothing, the lease automatically converts to a month-to-month arrangement for up to six months, with payments that may increase during that stretch.

SEE ALSO: Klarna freezes hiring because AI can do the job instead

If you're considering leasing your next iPhone or Apple Watch, we've put together answers to some of the most common questions about how the new Apple lease program works.

What is the Apple Upgrade program?

Apple Upgrade is a Klarna-backed leasing program for U.S. shoppers that launched on July 28, and it allows customers to lease new Apple devices for a period of 12, 24, or 36 months, depending on the product. For the Apple iPhone upgrade program, leasing prices start at just $17.99 per month, but users can lower their monthly payments by trading in their current iPhone through Apple Trade In. You can learn more about the program at the Apple newsroom or sign up to enroll at Apple's website.

What devices are eligible?

The Apple Upgrade covers most new iPhone, Apple Watch, Mac, and iPad devices. The eligible devices are:

  • iPhone 17

  • iPhone 17e

  • iPhone 17 Pro

  • iPhone Air

  • Apple Watch Series 11

  • Apple Watch Hermès Series 11

  • Apple Watch Ultra Watch 3

  • Apple Watch Hermès Ultra 3

  • M5 MacBook Air

  • M5 MacBook Pro (M5 Pro and M5 Max also included)

  • M4 iPad Air

  • iPad Mini (A17 Pro Chip)

A handful of older or budget models are excluded, including the iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Plus, Apple Watch SE, MacBook Neo, Mac Mini, iPad (A16), and Studio Display. The Vision Pro is also excluded.

How long are the lease terms?

iPhone and Apple Watch leases run for either 12 or 24 months. Mac and iPad leases run 24 or 36 months. Not every term is available on every device.

How much does it cost per month?

Pricing starts at $17.99 for iPhone, $11.99 for Apple Watch, $24.99 for Mac, and $11.99 for iPad, though actual payments vary by device, storage tier, and lease length. No security deposit is required, and trading in a current device through Apple Trade In can lower the monthly rate.

Do I own the device at the end of the lease?

No, not unless you pay the device's purchase fee at the end of the term. Otherwise, you're expected to either upgrade to a new lease or return the device in acceptable condition. Returning a damaged, lost, or stolen device can trigger additional fees, and insurance isn't included in the lease itself.

Is there a credit check?

Yes, but it's a soft inquiry that doesn't affect your credit score. Final approval, including any monthly payment you're offered, depends on Klarna's assessment of your creditworthiness.

What about AppleCare?

AppleCare isn't automatically bundled with Apple Upgrade the way it was with the old iPhone Upgrade Program. Customers can add AppleCare+ or AppleCare One separately to cover accidental damage, theft, loss, and battery service.

Can I use Apple Card with this?

Yes, payments made with Apple Card earn 3 percent Daily Cash back, and Apple Card Monthly Installments remain a separate, distinct financing option outside of Apple Upgrade for customers who'd rather buy a device outright over time.

What happens to people already in the iPhone Upgrade Program?

Existing members aren't required to do anything. They can keep making their monthly payments under their existing agreement with Citizens One, and once they complete their 24-month term, the device is theirs to keep, no purchase fee required.

When they're ready for a new iPhone, they'll have the option to switch into Apple Upgrade, finance through Apple Card Monthly Installments, buy a device outright, or go through carrier financing instead.

Who's eligible to lease through Apple Upgrade?

You need to be a U.S. resident at least 18 years old, have a valid Social Security number or ITIN, hold an Apple Account in good standing, have a Klarna account, and have an accepted credit or debit card on file.

Leasing an iPhone requires enrolling in a postpaid plan with AT&T, T-Mobile, or Verizon — prepaid plans don't qualify, though leased iPhones are unlocked.

What happens if I miss a payment?

Recently, 9to5Mac found code in the iOS 27 beta that suggested Apple and lenders could place phones in "Restricted Mode" if a user falls behind on payments. However, that's not part of the Apple Upgrade program. Instead, missed payments will automatically be added to the next month's bill.

MacRumors also reports that there are no late fees for missed payments, but three missed payments will result in Klarna terminating your contract.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Save over $500 on the DJI Power 2000 portable power station — one of our top picks

Mashable - 5 hours 54 min ago

SAVE $579: As of July 29, you can pick up the DJI Power 2000 portable power station at Amazon for just $719.98. That's a savings of 45% or $579.02.

Opens in a new window Credit: DJI DJI Power 2000 portable power station $719.98 at Amazon
$1,299 Save $579.02   Get Deal

Portable power stations aren't just for backup power during outages. They also serve as must-have camping companions, thanks to our growing number of devices and increasingly complex power needs. If you're in the market for one of these reliable and movable power sources, one of our favorites is on sale at Amazon for over $500 off.

As of July 29, the DJI Power 2000 portable power station is just $719.98. Sure, that still seems like a lot, but compared to its current list price of $1,299, that's a steal. You'll save 45% or $579.02, to be exact.

Mashable contributor Lauren Allain tested this power station last year and raved about it, calling it "a beefy option that’s awesome for camping, backyard parties, or content creators out on projects." It earned a spot on our list of the best portable power stations, particularly as the top choice for content creators.

The DJI Power 2000 features three standard AC ports, a 30-amp plug, four USB-A ports, four USB-C ports, and two SDC ports for quick recharging of drones. We wish it has even more AC ports, given its 2,048Wh capacity, but it is what it is. It operates quietly, recharges quickly, and offers an impressive amount of power for its physical size (under 50 pounds). It's also compatible with up to 10 DJI Expansion Battery 2000s, which would increase the power to over 22,000Wh, enough for a whole-home backup. Its pretty gnarly on its own, though. Allain was able to charge both her phone and camera battery while cooking dinner in the air fryer all at the same time.

With camping season (and hurricane season) in full swing, it's as good a time as any to make the investment in a portable power source. And we highly recommend grabbing the DJI Power 2000 while it's over $500 off.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Samsung Galaxy users complain of battery drain and overheating after update

Mashable - 6 hours 3 min ago

If you have a Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra or S25 Ultra, maybe keep an eye on your battery.

Owners of those two older Ultra devices are complaining on places like Reddit and Samsung's own forums (as spotted by Android Headlines) about significant battery issues following a recent security update released in July. According to some S24 and S25 Ultra owners, the update caused substantial battery drain; one user reported going from 85 percent to 5 percent in just two hours of screen time.

As one user wrote, "My s24 ultra battery is draining very fast after July 26 update even heating like cook top. Why this happening?" Other users cited problems with WhatsApp in particular.

SEE ALSO: Video: Samsung’s smart glasses are almost here: See how they'll work

Additionally, some users have noted their phones running hotter than usual and even charging more slowly than they should. Samsung has not officially commented on the matter yet. Mashable reached out to Samsung about the user complaints and will update this article if we hear anything back.

This sort of issue happens every now and then, but usually it's just one issue arising on some devices after an update. This time, it's seemingly three separate (but possibly related) problems that users say only materialized after what should have been a minor security patch. If the issues are related to the recent July update, then hopefully Samsung is able to figure out the problem and fix it promptly.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Docker is no longer the best choice for homelabbers

How-To Geek - 6 hours 4 min ago

Docker Compose is one of the most popular tools in the homelabber's software arsenal, and for good reason. You get one YAML file and run one command (docker compose up), and your service will usually magically start running.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Keep a cleaner home with 47% off the Roborock Qrevo CurvX robot vacuum and mop

Mashable - 6 hours 19 min ago

SAVE $700: As of July 29, get the Roborock Qrevo CurvX robot vacuum and mop for $799.99 at Amazon. That's a discount of 47%.

Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Roborock Qrevo CurvX robot vacuum and mop $799.99 at Amazon
$1,499.99 Save $700   Get Deal

No matter what your regular cleaning routine looks like, a robot vacuum can definitely make it easier for you. And if you want one to completely cut all the effort you have to put into this regular ritual, you'll want to take a look at the model that's on sale at Amazon right now. Not only does it look futuristic, but it behaves that way, too.

As of July 29, get the Roborock Qrevo CurvX robot vacuum and mop for $799.99 at Amazon. That's $700 off and a discount of 47%.

SEE ALSO: I found the best robot vacuums for every floor, budget, and level of laziness

This powerful robot vacuum boasts 22,000Pa of suction with a zero-tangling design to make sure it can continuously cut through even tough messes with ease. It's the slimmest Roborock vacuum in the lineup according to the company, so it can reach those difficult areas and get to all the problem cleaning spots that you can't normally vacuum. And that's just the start of its set of abilities.

This robot vacuum is also a mop, and it uses 80-degree hot water to both work through grease and other stubborn stains. The mop heads are cleaned between uses, so things stay sanitary while you're tidying up. It also uses a special AdaptiLift Chassis to lift the robot's entire body to reach specific areas, whether vacuuming or mopping, to tackle the more difficult problem spaces in your home.

If you've been looking for a great option to scrub down your home (without your input, unless you want to provide it) this is an excellent robot vacuum that can only improve your routines. Grab it while it's available for such a deep discount.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Weve never seen the DJI Mini 5 Pro Fly More Combo at this low price before — save over $100

Mashable - 6 hours 24 min ago

SAVE $110: The DJI Mini 5 Pro Fly More Combo is on sale at Amazon for $989, down from the list price of $1,099. That's a 10% discount and the lowest we've ever seen at Amazon.

Opens in a new window Credit: DJI DJI Mini 5 Pro Fly More Combo $989 at Amazon
$1,099 Save $110   Get Deal

There's something freeing about taking to the skies under your own control. Short of becoming an airplane pilot, there's a much easier and less time consuming way to get up in the air — with a drone. Check out your surroundings like never before thanks to this Amazon deal.

As of July 29, the DJI Mini 5 Pro Fly More Combo is on sale at Amazon for $989, down from the list price of $1,099. That's a 10% discount and the lowest we've ever seen at Amazon.

DJI drones are well known as some of the best around. They come with pro-level features that are friendly for even first-time fliers. The DJI Mini 5 Pro drone records in 4K with a one-inch CMOS camera. It can capture true vertical footage as well as a 225 degree roll rotation. DJI also focused on making this drone model easy to fly in low-light conditions. It's equipped with DJI's Nightscape Omnidirectional Obstacle Sensing to help for a stable flight with a single return-to-home function.

SEE ALSO: The Hisense 65-inch E7 Cinema Series TV is over $400 off at Amazon — buy for the best-ever price

Active Track 360 is perfect if you'll be filming a moving subject like a cyclist, skier, a motorcycle, or a sporting event. It's also ideal for capturing clear portraits and landscapes thanks to the 48 millimeter Med-Tele mode. There's also the cinematic 120 fps slow motion in 4K.

The Fly More Combo that comes with this drone is packed with all the accessories you'd want for creating top-tier content. Aside from the DJI Mini 5 Pro drone itself, the bundle includes the DJI RC 2 for easy navigation and maneuvering, three intelligent Flight Batteries, spare propellers, a shoulder bag, an ND Filter Set, and even more.

Before this sale price of $989 disappears, make the upgrade to the DJI Mini 5 Pro Fly More Combo. It's well worth the pro-level features and added accessories in this bundle.

Categories: IT General, Technology

iPhone 20: Rumor has it Apple is prepping a radical redesign

Mashable - 6 hours 28 min ago

Presumably, Apple will release the iPhone 18 in September. That's all fine and good, but let's look even further into the future.

Believe it or not, there are already credible reports and leaks floating around about a potential 20th anniversary "iPhone 20" arriving in fall 2027. (If the rumor mill is correct, Apple will skip the iPhone 19, and this wouldn't be the first time Apple has gotten creative with numbering.) The iPhone 20 would commemorate the 20th anniversary of the original model, which was released on June 29, 2007.

To mark 20 years of the iPhone, Apple is reportedly prepping a big redesign that makes use of curved glass and a waterfall display. If true, this would be one of the biggest shakeups to the iPhone in years.

So, here is everything we know about the iPhone 20.

SEE ALSO: Apple's new 'Upgrade' program lets you lease a Mac, iPhone, iPad, or Apple Watch like a car iPhone 20: When will it come out?

First things first, the release date. Apple always launches its flagship iPhone models in September of every year, and there's currently no reason to believe that's going to change soon.

In other words, it's widely expected that this phone will be announced and will subsequently launch in September of 2027. The 20th anniversary iPhone is also the perfect opportunity for Apple to do some weird, fun stuff with its signature device.

iPhone 20: What will it look like?

This is the big point of interest regarding the iPhone 20. In 2025, there were multiple credible reports that the iPhone 20 model would undergo a major redesign that uses significantly more glass than the typical phone.

More recently, Bloomberg and The Information both reported in May of this year that it will have an all-glass, edge-to-edge display. That means curved glass wrapping around the edges of the device, and perhaps more importantly, a seeming lack of a notch or Dynamic Island cutout for the selfie camera. The Dynamic Island has proven divisive, and it will be interesting to see if Apple can deliver on the promise of a true edge-to-edge display.

We've seen wrap-around and waterfall displays on other devices like TVs, but a more sculptural, curved glass iPhone would definitely stand out in the mobile market.

In June, Bloomberg also reported that there will be two iPhone 20 models launched in 2027, likely in the Pro category, and that they will measure in at around 6.3 inches and 6.9 inches. Those are pretty similar figures to what's expected from the iPhone 18.

iPhone 20: New buttons!

Lastly, for now, leaker Instant Digital posted on Weibo late last year that Apple is working on "solid-state" (in other words, non-moving and non-mechanical) buttons for the iPhone 20. The unique feature here would be haptic feedback for power, volume control, and camera control. I could see this being somewhat controversial, like when Apple got rid of the home button, but we'll have to wait and see.

Categories: IT General, Technology

You already own a NAS, you just don't know it yet

How-To Geek - 6 hours 34 min ago

The best NAS I've ever used wasn't the one that I picked up off a shelf. It was the one I cobbled together from old desktop hard drives, an old gaming PC, and a small SSD for a boot drive. It has run for years without a single hitch and beats even expensive modern NASes in most ways that matter.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Enjoy clean windows with over $100 off the Ecovacs Winbot W2 Pro Omni

Mashable - 6 hours 35 min ago

SAVE $100.99: As of July 29, get the Ecovacs Winbot W2 Pro Omni for $399 at Amazon, down from its usual price of $499.99. That's a discount of 20%.

Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Ecovacs Winbot W2 Pro Omni $399 at Amazon
$499.99 Save $100.99   Get Deal

You already know that when it comes to cleaning your floors, a robot vacuum is the way to go. But what about when you want to tidy up your windows? Toss the Windex and paper towels and let a robot handle that, too. We've got a great option for you thanks to this Amazon deal that can tackle the streakiest, filthiest windows while you sit back and relax, all at a great discount.

As of July 29, get the Ecovacs Winbot W2 Pro Omni for $399 at Amazon, down from its usual price of $499.99. That's $100.99 off and a discount of 20%.

SEE ALSO: I found the best robot vacuums for every floor, budget, and level of laziness

All you have to do to get this robot started is attach it to your window and let it get to work. It uses two different methods of cleaning depending on what kind of windows you have: battery mode for areas without outlets, and plugged-in for larger areas when you need additional power.

Its 6-in-1 multifunction station has an all-in-one attachment to let it handle everything about each window cleaning job from start to finish. It uses three different nozzles for wide-angle cleaning as well as a wet cloth to make it easier to tackle streaky and super soiled windows. With intelligent path planning and a brushless motor to power it all, you can skip the frustrating paper towel wash and feel confident that the robots are getting the job done.

This is a great gift for anyone who needs help cleaning, but it's also good to treat yourself. So, spoil yourself with a window-cleaning robot that can take one more item off of your to-do list.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Jellyfin is better on paper, but Plex still wins where it actually matters

How-To Geek - 6 hours 48 min ago

In a straight comparison between Jellyfin and Plex, there's one clear winner. Jellyfin is open source, totally free with no premium tier, has no account requirement, and has almost everything Plex users need, along with greater customization. For the average person, the day-to-day experience is what really matters, putting Plex above Jellyfin.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Linux promises freedom from Windows, but it demands something harder in return

How-To Geek - 6 hours 57 min ago

I've been using Linux on and off for over 20 years at this point, I'd dual-boot for a few months, or always have a Linux VM or two spooled up on my Windows PC to keep abreast of the latest state of open-source operating systems. The first time I used Linux as my daily driver OS was during my postgraduate studies, where the little netbook I took to class could only handle Linux and not Windows.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Explore the world of anime with a year of streaming on Crunchyroll for $30 off

Mashable - 6 hours 57 min ago

SAVE $30: As of July 29, you can sign up for a full year of anime streaming on Crunchyroll for just $69.99 instead of the usual $99.99. That's 30% off its usual cost.

Opens in a new window Credit: Crunchyroll Crunchyroll Fan annual subscription (Prime Video add-on) $69.99
$99.99 Save $30 *for one year* Get Deal

Everyone's favorite anime streaming service, Crunchyroll, raised its prices earlier this year after nixing its free streaming plan. It's an unfortunate trend amongst streaming services in 2026. If you cut ties due to the jacked up prices, now's your chance to jump back on board for less.

As of July 29, you can sign up for the Crunchyroll Fan annual subscription for only $69.99 instead of the usual $99.99. That's 30% or $30 in savings and even cheaper than its pre-price hike cost. The deal is available through the Crunchyroll app or website directly or as a Prime Video add-on subscription.

The Crunchyroll Fan subscription unlocks ad-free access to the entire Crunchyroll library, including brand new episodes shortly after they air in Japan. You'll also get offline viewing access. The only limitation is that you can stream on just one device at a time. If you want to stream on more than one at a time, you'll need the Mega Fan subscription, which is also on sale for just $99.99 for one year (reg. $139.99).

If you sign up through Prime Video, just be sure to select the annual plan at checkout instead of the monthly plan if you want to secure the savings. You'll be billed directly through your Amazon account and charged automatically for the next year at full cost unless you cancel before then. (Set your calendar alerts now).

Whether you're a longtime anime lover or you're curious and want to explore the genre, Crunchyroll is the subscription to get. It has a vast selection of popular titles, Crunchyroll Originals, and simulcasts, including the beloved Witch Hat Atelier, One Piece, Gachiakuta, Solo Leveling, and Demon Slayer.

Categories: IT General, Technology

4 new Makita tools coming soon that will change how you work

How-To Geek - 7 hours 4 min ago

Want to buy more tools this year? If you're a fan of Makita, you know the company regularly releases new items to bolster its inventory, including a slew of new tools over the last month. Whether you need a new drill, pellet saw, blowers, or other items, here are some exciting new Makita tools worth considering.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Never worry about power outages again — the Jackery HomePower 3600 Plus is $1,550 off at Amazon

Mashable - 7 hours 12 min ago

SAVE 42%: As of July 29, you can get the Jackery HomePower 3600 Plus portable power station bundled with two 200W solar panels for $2,149 at Amazon. That's a 42% discount or $1,550 in savings.

Jackery HomePower 3600 Plus $2,149 at Amazon
$3,699 Save $1,550   Get Deal at Amazon

Living on the East Coast has taught me that a stiff breeze is all it takes to lose power. Since I live in an apartment, buying a traditional gas generator isn't practical, but a heavy-duty portable power station offers the same peace of mind without the fumes, noise, or installation hassle.

SEE ALSO: The 6 best portable power stations to stay charged up at home and on the go

Right now, you can get the Jackery HomePower 3600 Plus portable power station bundled with two 200W solar panels for $2,149 at Amazon. That's a 42% discount or $1,550 in savings.

The Jackery HomePower 3600 Plus runs on a battery, so it's safe for indoor use. (It has built-in wheels and a retractable handle so you can roll it from room to room like carry-on luggage.) With a 3,584Wh capacity and 3,600W AC output, it's enough to keep your refrigerator, WiFi router, lights, and phones running through a prolonged blackout.

You can charge it from a standard wall outlet in just 2.5 hours before a storm rolls in, or set up the included solar panels to recharge it in (roughly) four hours if the grid stays down.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Michael B. Jordans The Thomas Crown Affair trailer makes that getaway van Gogh

Mashable - 7 hours 15 min ago

Reader, I love an art heist film, and there are very few good ones. The Mastermind is one. Entrapment is another (don't look at me like that). But The Thomas Crown Affair has always been been top of this list, both the Steve McQueen/Faye Dunaway 1968 version and the 1999 versions, the latter Pierce Brosnan gem a video store classic in this house.

Now, Michael B. Jordan is restarting the affair, directing his own version with a screenplay by Drew Pearce and Jason Hall and a sublime cast: the Oscar-winning Sinners star himself, alongside Adria Arjona, Lily Gladstone, Danai Gurira, Kenneth Branagh, and Pilou Asbæk.

The trailer promises Vincent Van Gogh's "Sunflowers" as a target, high-speed chases, and plenty of luxurious destinations. You son of a bitch, I'm in!

The Thomas Crown Affair hits cinemas March 5, 2027.

Categories: IT General, Technology

DoorDash launches in-house drone unit — "cleared for takeoff"

Mashable - 7 hours 19 min ago

Will your next takeout food delivery arrive by air? That's what DoorDash is preparing for.

On Wednesday, DoorDash announced that it had just received Part 135 air carrier certification from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). As a result of this approval, the company also announced the launch of an in-house drone program called DoorDash Air.

"This certification means that DoorDash is authorized to operate as an air carrier and offer an even more deeply integrated drone delivery experience, opening up new possibilities for local businesses," the company said in a statement.

According to DoorDash, the company is only the eighth drone operator to earn the FAA's Part 135 certification. DoorDash was required to pass a five-stage evaluation process that verified aircraft airworthiness, maintenance programs, and safety procedures.

“We want drone delivery to work for any merchant, anywhere. We're building the full stack to make that possible from the ground infrastructure to the drone itself, and the handoff systems that make it work together seamlessly,” said Head of DoorDash Air Harrison Shih in a blog post. “Advances in hardware, compute, and AI are creating extraordinary new capabilities for local commerce, and becoming a certified air carrier accelerates everything we're building.”

Human Dashers will continue to play a main role within the company, DoorDash says. The company mentioned how Dashers will still fulfill deliveries that drones and other autonomous delivery systems can't handle, such as apartment deliveries and fulfilling deliveries with large orders. 

According to the company, drones fulfilled deliveries in an estimated average of 25 minutes last year. The company says that some locations that took part in its drone partner pilot found their order volume grow by around 30 percent during the program.

DoorDash also has a good idea of which type of deliveries would benefit the most from drones. DoorDash says that 20 percent of DoorDash orders need to be delivered between three to five miles. However, those orders took roughly 25 percent longer to be fulfilled than shorter deliveries. The company says this is because it's more difficult to find Dashers willing to take on mid-range trips. DoorDash hopes that drone deliveries can fulfill these orders, allowing human Dashers to focus on shorter trips, which could maximize their earnings.

Of course, DoorDash wouldn't be the first company to experiment with drone deliveries. Amazon, Alphabet's Wing, and most recently, Walmart have all deployed drone delivery systems. These companies have all touted their delivery drone program; however, there have been some speed bumps along the way.

DoorDash says it's currently "designing and building" its first-party drone program with the company's in-house robotics and autonomy team, DoorDash Labs. The company says that this is "only the beginning" and expects to have further updates about DoorDash Air later this year.

Categories: IT General, Technology

DroiClaw aims to bring system-level AI agents to more phones

How-To Geek - 7 hours 24 min ago

Often, AI on your phone lives inside a single chatbot app, without access to the rest of your operating system. DroiClaw aims to change that with an AI-native operating system in which AI can complete almost any task, from information searches to writing assistance, on devices without requiring any third-party apps.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Skip the top trim: This $36k model is the 2026 Toyota RAV4’s sweet spot

How-To Geek - 7 hours 34 min ago

Choosing the right trim level can make all the difference when you're shopping for a new SUV. Spend too little, and you may miss out on features you'll use every day. Spend too much, and you're often paying for luxury extras that add little real value. The sweet spot is usually somewhere in the middle.

Categories: IT General, Technology
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