Blogroll

Discord is getting a speed boost on Windows, Mac, and Linux

How-To Geek - Wed, 02/04/2026 - 20:39

The Discord messaging application is getting a much-needed speed boost on desktop platforms. There are also new improvements to screenshots and game streams, a new way to share times, and much more.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Hinge tests facial recognition scans in these countries

Mashable - Wed, 02/04/2026 - 20:15

The dating app Hinge is testing the facial recognition feature Face Check in a number of countries this quarter. That's according to its parent company, Match Group, which announced the test during its 2025 Q4 earnings call.

Tinder has required Face Check for all new U.S. users since October 2025, after making it mandatory for California users. By the end of this first quarter in 2026, Match Group expects Tinder to launch Face Check globally.

Where it has been rolled out, the company claims the face-checking feature has led to a more than 50 percent reduction in interactions with bad actors (accounts that engage in deceptive or harmful behaviors like spam and scam attempts).

SEE ALSO: Is Hinge really 'designed to be deleted'? I tested it to find out.

Hinge says it will test the feature in Mexico, Brazil, Australia, and Canada this quarter. More details about the U.S. rollout of Face Check are coming soon, with testing beginning as early as next month, a spokesperson told Mashable.

Hinge is also preparing to test Direct to Date, "which clarifies intent to accelerate IRL plans," according to the Q4 2025 prepared remarks.

Hinge told Mashable that the app is exploring a new way to help daters start planning for a first date as soon as they match — including sharing their availability, as well as date activities they're interested in. The test is planned for this spring.

Hinge continues to be the darling of Match Group's array of apps, as shown by the Q4 results. Paying users and direct revenue increased again quarterly and yearly, while Tinder's have decreased.

In December, Hinge founder Justin McLeod announced he was leaving Hinge to launch an AI dating service, which has yet to be unveiled.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Sam Altman unloads on Elon Musk in latest X posts

Mashable - Wed, 02/04/2026 - 20:05

OpenAI CEO Sam Altman has sharply escalated his long-running feud with Elon Musk, responding to newly filed court documents and recent public comments with a series of posts on X, tracking their ongoing legal and business disputes.

This latest round of the feud began after court filings in Musk's lawsuits against OpenAI and Apple became public. Jason Kwon, OpenAI's chief strategy officer, wrote that Musk and his AI company, xAI, produced almost no substantive internal documents during discovery, allegedly relying instead on disappearing messages.

This Tweet is currently unavailable. It might be loading or has been removed.

Altman reposted those claims, along with what has become a Musk catchphrase: "Concerning!"

This Tweet is currently unavailable. It might be loading or has been removed.

Screenshots of the filings posted online by Kwon appeared to support OpenAI's argument that key communications were not preserved.

Altman didn't stop there. He followed up with a more direct jab, writing that he was "really excited to get Elon under oath in a few months." He called the prospect "Christmas in April."

This Tweet is currently unavailable. It might be loading or has been removed.

Altman and Musk are involved in several lawsuits challenging OpenAI's governance changes, including its restructuring from a nonprofit into a for-profit business. Musk has argued those moves betray OpenAI's original mission, while OpenAI has called Musk's suits frivolous.

Early last year, Musk led a $97 billion bid to acquire OpenAI, which Altman publicly rejected.

The posts build on years of tension over OpenAI's direction. Just two weeks ago, Altman was pushing back against Musk on X due to the latter's claim that ChatGPT posed a mental health risk to users. Altman noted Musk's criticism was inconsistent, and explained the difficulty of balancing safety with access for a massive user base.

In the same exchange, Altman pointed to Tesla's autopilot safety record as an example of Musk's own company facing public scrutiny.

Disclosure: Ziff Davis, Mashable’s parent company, in April filed a lawsuit against OpenAI, alleging it infringed Ziff Davis copyrights in training and operating its AI systems.

Categories: IT General, Technology

NVIDIA's latest update proves upgrading your GPU doesn't matter anymore

How-To Geek - Wed, 02/04/2026 - 20:00

Once, each new generation of graphics card promised to bring large performance gains, and if you wanted to play the latest and greatest AAA games at high resolutions, you needed to upgrade or be left behind. However, NVIDIA's continued improvements to DLSS have made upgrading less important than it used to be.

Categories: IT General, Technology

How to pipe and redirect like a pro in the Linux command line

How-To Geek - Wed, 02/04/2026 - 20:00

On Linux, pipes and redirection let you use the output from commands in powerful ways. Capture it in files, or use it as input with other commands. Here’s what you need to know.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Leaving hard drives in a drawer kills them: The 3 rules of cold storage

How-To Geek - Wed, 02/04/2026 - 20:00

Keeping a hard drive on a drawer is probably the most common approach to storing files over the long term. A lot of people don't do it properly, though, to the point I've actually discouraged this practice previously.

Categories: IT General, Technology

3 legendary TV shows filmed in Los Angeles

How-To Geek - Wed, 02/04/2026 - 19:30

Welcome to the film and television capital of the country. Thanks to Hollywood, Los Angeles continues to be directly associated with the entertainment industry. Many of the major studios, including Warner Bros. and Universal Pictures, still have production lots either in Los Angeles or the surrounding cities.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Google officially reveals the Pixel 10a with dual cameras and a familiar design

How-To Geek - Wed, 02/04/2026 - 19:08

It’s that time of year when Google releases a budget version of its most recent “flagship” phone. The Pixel 10 series launched last Fall, and now we’re getting our first official look at the Pixel 10a. Google is teasing us with some close-up shots, but not much else.

Categories: IT General, Technology

IntelliJ IDEA, PyCharm, and other IDEs are getting a Wayland upgrade on Linux

How-To Geek - Wed, 02/04/2026 - 19:00

IntelliJ IDEA, PyCharm, PhpStorm, and other JetBrains IDEs are finally adopting Wayland. That means sharper text and better performance on most Linux systems, but there are still some bugs to be worked out.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Does “food safe” 3D printing really exist? Here’s what you need to know

How-To Geek - Wed, 02/04/2026 - 19:00

3D printing model repositories are full of items designed to hold food and drink or be used in the kitchen to prepare food. But before you print any of these, you need to understand the risks involved in mixing 3D prints and food.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Wait, thats Jonah Hill? The Outcome makeover turns the actor unrecognizable

Mashable - Wed, 02/04/2026 - 18:43

On Feb. 3, Apple Studios rolled out a comprehensive press day, and Mashable was there for all the breaking news on Apple TV shows like Pluribus, Sugar, and Margo's Got Money Troubles, as well as upcoming films like the Keanu Reeves-fronted comedy Outcome. And it's a first look at that dark comedy that has drawn a lot of attention online, particularly from Jonah Hill fans.

Directed by Hill, Outcome centers on an adored Hollywood star named Reef Hawk (Reeves) whose reputation is threatened by a blackmailer with a mysterious video. Cameron Diaz and Matt Bomer co-star, as does Hill. And it was the first look images of Hill that surprised the internet.

At the event itself (as you can see above), Hill sported thick glasses, short hair, and an auburn beard. This is fairly similar to how he looked in his last directorial effort, the 2022 documentary about his therapist, Stutz, and in the 2023 Eddie Murphy vehicle You People.

SEE ALSO: Everything we know about Keanu Reeves and Jonah Hill's 'Outcome'

However, in the production stills from Outcome, Hill is hard to clock opposite Reeves. Check it out:

Keanu Reeves and Jonah Hill in "Outcome." Credit: Apple TV

In profile with a shaved head and gray beard, Hill breaks from what audiences have come to expect of his onscreen appearance. So, already Outcome has some added mystique. Mashable's Entertainment Reporter Belen Edwards shared that Hill plays a crisis lawyer hired by Reeve's character in the film. But could this new look mark a new chapter in Hill's career, either as an actor or director?

We should know soon, as Hill has two movies slated for 2026 release, both of which he directs and co-stars in. (He also shares screenwriting credit on both films with Ezra Woods.) On top of Outcome, he's also got Cut Off, a dramedy about two rich siblings (Hill and Kristen Wiig) whose lives take a turn when their parents cut off their financial support. Cut Off doesn't yet have a release date. Outcome hits Apple TV on April 10.

How to watch: Outcome premieres April 10 on Apple TV.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Another GPU crisis is brewing, and it's bad news for PC gamers

How-To Geek - Wed, 02/04/2026 - 18:30

Gaming GPU prices had hit a sweet spot just a few months ago, but due to memory shortages and the ever-increasing thirst for AI compute, prices are going through the roof yet again. Looks like another GPU crisis is around the corner, and it's going to take a while before things return to normal.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Streaming deal alert: Get 3 months of MUBI for only $1

Mashable - Wed, 02/04/2026 - 18:29

SAVE $43.97: Through Feb. 9, new and returning subscribers can get three months of streaming on MUBI for only $1. Usually $14.99 per month, that's nearly $44 in savings.

Opens in a new window Credit: Mubi MUBI Get 3 months for $1 Get Deal

If you're looking to venture away from Netflix and its extravagant costs, MUBI is an excellent choice — especially if you're a movie lover. There are never any ads, it's brimming with hand-picked quality cinema, and for a limited time, it's just a buck.

Through Feb. 9, new and returning subscribers can get three months of streaming on MUBI for just $1. It typically costs $14.99 per month (or $9.99 per month with an annual membership), which means you'll save nearly $44 total across 90 days. After the promotional period, of course, the price will jump back up to $14.99 unless you cancel first.

MUBI is made for cinephiles, as it prides itself as a place to "discover ambitious films and series by visionary filmmakers — from iconic directors to emerging auteurs." You'll find mainstream and independent films, classics and new releases, award winners, and even Mubi originals. That includes one of our favorite movies from 2025, Die My Love, and one of our favorites from 2024, The Substance. It's also where you can watch Lili Reinhart's new show Hal & Harper, as well as Twin Peaks in its entirety.

Streaming deals this good don't stick around long — be sure to secure your $1 subscription by Feb. 9.

Categories: IT General, Technology

The Insta360 Flow 2 Pro gimbal is back at a record-low price at Amazon: Save over $30

Mashable - Wed, 02/04/2026 - 18:17

SAVE $33.01: The Insta360 Flow 2 Pro foldable gimbal is on sale at Amazon for $126.98, down from the list price of $159.99. That's a 21% discount that matches the record low at Amazon.

Opens in a new window Credit: Insta360 Insta360 Flow 2 Pro foldable gimbal $126.98 at Amazon
$159.99 Save $33.01   Get Deal

These days, you don't have to be a professional content creator to share great clips on socials. We have tons of free tools that help us capture video to share on our feeds, whether it's your dog being silly or your latest trip to Europe. If you've been grabbing these videos by holding your phone in your hand, it might be time for an upgrade. Check out this deal at Amazon.

As of Feb. 4, the Insta360 Flow 2 Pro foldable gimbal is on sale at Amazon for $126.98, marked down from the list price of $159.99. That's a 21% discount that shaves $33.01 off the normal price. It also matches the record low at Amazon.

SEE ALSO: The DJI Mini 5 Pro Fly More Combo is down to an all-time low price — save $500 at Amazon

Insta360 packed the Flow 2 Pro with features that make filming much more convenient. For starters, there's the active zoom tracking, which can follow subjects even at 15x zoom. The multi-person tracking is also great for filming several subjects, and the 360-degree Infinite Pan Tracking is a standout highlight. This function allows for continuous rotation. Of course, it can also serve as a tripod for still recording.

While it's still at a record-low price at Amazon, upgrade to the Insta360 Flow 2 Pro foldable gimbal for under $127. Your content will look smooth and pro-level with this added accessory.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Are hydraulic impact drivers worth buying?

How-To Geek - Wed, 02/04/2026 - 18:15

Whether you're a professional or a DIYer, you likely have a preferred power tool brand and a stash of battery packs. Then, the deeper you go, you've probably upgraded to some of the latest and greatest, like the Milwaukee Fuel line. Another option you may be considering is a hydraulic impact driver, which is quickly becoming a fan-favorite tool.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Get $600 off the Bluetti Elite 400 portable power station and stay prepared for emergencies

Mashable - Wed, 02/04/2026 - 18:10

SAVE $600.01: As of Feb. 4, get the Bluetti Elite 400 portable power station for $1,298.99 at Amazon, down from its usual price of $1,899. That's a discount of 32%.

Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Bluetti Elite 400 portable power station $1,298.99 at Amazon
$1,899 Save $600.01   Get Deal

If you live somewhere where you deal with power outages often, you probably get tired of being without electricity. It's frustrating to say the least, especially when it starts to stretch into longer periods of time. That's where a portable power station can come in. If you're ready to invest in one so you can stop dealing with these situations, now's the time to buy, thanks to this discount.

As of Feb. 4, get the Bluetti Elite 400 portable power station for $1,298.99 at Amazon, down from its usual price of $1,899. That's $600.01 off and a discount of 32%.

SEE ALSO: The 4 best power stations for camping keep you both online and off-grid

This power station boasts 3,840Wh and 2600W capacity, so it can handle just about any electricity-related situation you end up dealing with. It can run most appliances and devices, from your refrigerator to your laptop, tablet, and everything else you may need to keep charged. It's easy to charge as well, as you can get it up to an 80 percent charge in just 70 minutes with its 2800W AC and solar input. Not bad if you need juice in a pinch.

Since the backup is a bit on the larger side, it features a hardy shell with wheels, making it easy to maneuver and get where you need to go, and to take your electricity with you. You can toss it in the garage, keep it in your car, or anywhere you think it could be useful in a pinch.

If it's long past time for you to have your own power station, consider grabbing this one now that it's on sale for this significant discount.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Someone made a giant replica of iconic '90s PC speakers (and they actually work)

How-To Geek - Wed, 02/04/2026 - 18:04

If you grew up in the 90s with a beige Windows PC, there’s a good chance you spent hours staring at a very specific pair of speakers. The Harman/Kardon HK195 speakers were ubiquitous in the early internet era, and artist @gwakproductions has brought them back in a massive way—literally.

Categories: IT General, Technology

The weirdest smart home sensor you never knew you needed

How-To Geek - Wed, 02/04/2026 - 18:01

There are many helpful sensors for your smart home, from humidity sensors to door and window sensors. But there's one sensor in particular that sounds a little crazy, but can actually be incredibly useful.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Saturday Night Live UK announces 11 cast members

Mashable - Wed, 02/04/2026 - 18:00

Saturday Night Live is making its way across the pond to the UK — and we finally have a few more key details about what to expect.

The big one? Sky's six-episode series has announced its 11-person cast, with Celeste Dring, Hammed Animashaun, Larry Dean, George Fouracres, Jack Shep, Ayoade Bamgboye, Al Nash, Paddy Young, Ania Magliano, Annabel Marlow, and Emma Sidi making up the core troupe of players.

'Saturday Night Live UK' has its cast. Credit: Sky

Interestingly, the show isn't necessarily stacked with huge names: Some of the cast have appeared in popular shows like Taskmaster, Starstruck, Big Boys, This Country, and Black Ops, but most are aren't extremely well known in the UK beyond comedy circles. It's likely this spinoff version is following in the footsteps of the original in its recruitment of grassroots and up-and-coming comics.

SEE ALSO: The 15 best British TV shows of 2025 and where to stream them

“The UK is absolutely packed with incredible comedy talent right now and this cast represents the freshest voices we have, they’re bold, exciting and of course, incredibly funny," said lead producer James Longman in a press release sent to Mashable. "The chemistry between them is something special and we can’t wait to share this funny group of people with the world.”

Saturday Night Live UK will feature a different guest host and musical guest each week, and will feature an opening monologue, a take on Weekend Update, and familiar SNL-style sketches.

Saturday Night Live UK launches on March 21 on Sky and NOW, with new episodes live each Saturday. U.S. streaming details are TBC.

Featured Video For You Say More: Danny Boyle reveals the tech and origins of '28 Years Later's most shocking moments
Categories: IT General, Technology

ChatGPT caricature trend: What it is, prompt to try it.

Mashable - Wed, 02/04/2026 - 17:54

Have you ever had a caricature of yourself made? You know those funny drawings you can get made at Disney World or at most boardwalk spots where the artist accentuates your features in an over-exaggerated cartoon-style portrait? 

Well, if you missed out on your last summer vacation, AI chatbots like ChatGPT are generating caricatures now and they're currently all the rage on social media.

Here are a few examples.

This Tweet is currently unavailable. It might be loading or has been removed. This Tweet is currently unavailable. It might be loading or has been removed. ChatGPT caricature trend prompts to try

Looking to whip up an AI caricature of yourself? 

Just go to ChatGPT and upload a close-up image of yourself. From that point, there's a few ways to continue. The way most users are generating their caricature is by using this viral prompt: “Create a caricature of me and my job based on everything you know about me.”

However, in order to create an AI-generated caricature from that prompt, the user needs quite a bit of history with ChatGPT so that the chatbot can whip up an image with their relevant interests depicted. 

SEE ALSO: ChatGPT GPT-4o users are raging at OpenAI on Reddit right now

Don't have that kind of relationship with ChatGPT? That's not a problem. That just means you'll have to use a more detailed prompt, providing ChatGPT with a little bit about yourself. Some of the fun that users are having will be missed going this route as the chatbot can't exactly surprise you with the details it includes. But, you'll still get a caricature made nonetheless.

While ChatGPT seems to be most users' choice of chatbots for this, any generative image AI model should suffice in case you want to see what some of the alternatives whip up.

Categories: IT General, Technology
Syndicate content

eXTReMe Tracker