Qualcomm's Snapdragon Wear 4100 and 4100+ Promise Big Smartwatch Upgrades

The new Snapdragon Wear 4100 processors should speed up watches running Wear OS, but Google’s wearable platform will need more than that to see any real growth.

source https://www.wired.com/story/qualcomm-snapdragon-wear-4100-chips

‘Pokemon Go’ and ‘Sleep No More’ Creators Are Teaming Up on AR

Niantic and Punchdrunk plan to turn people into “the hero of their own living game.”

source https://www.wired.com/story/niantic-punchdrunk-augmented-reality-collaboration

7 Best Gaming Controllers (2020): PC, Xbox, PS4, Switch

A great gamepad instantly levels up your play. These are our top picks for Switch, Xbox, PS4, and PC.

source https://www.wired.com/gallery/best-game-controllers

Blurring Black Faces is Anti-Journalistic and Anti-Human

Photojournalists aren’t at protests to pick a side. Altering photographs destroys trust and neglects the truth that people want to be seen.

source https://www.wired.com/story/opinion-blurring-faces-is-anti-journalistic-and-anti-human

The CEO of Novartis on Developing Drugs During a Pandemic

Vas Narasimhan talks about drug prices, vaccine development, the rise and fall of hydroxychloroquine, and how Big Pharma might win back the trust of consumers.

source https://www.wired.com/story/the-ceo-of-novartis-on-developing-drugs-during-a-pandemic

Smartphone Apps Are Now a Weapon in International Disputes

India bans 59 Chinese apps weeks after border skirmishes killed 20 Indian soldiers. Russia and Brazil have previously blocked apps for their own reasons.

source https://www.wired.com/story/smartphone-apps-weapon-international-disputes

4th of July Sales (2020): 12 Great Deals on Outdoor Gear

You can save some cash with these discounts on biking, camping, and climbing equipment. And if you are heading out, stay safe and wear your face mask.

source https://www.wired.com/story/deals-06-25-20

America’s Great—if Small—Return to Drive-In Theaters

Indoor multiplexes are still largely closed. But if you're feeling trapped and culture-starved, consider revisiting a mainstay of mid-century Americana.

source https://www.wired.com/story/drive-in-renaissance

Nuclear ‘Power Balls’ May Make Meltdowns a Thing of the Past

Triso particles are an alien-looking fuel with built-in safety features that will power a new generation of high-temperature reactors.

source https://www.wired.com/story/nuclear-power-balls-triso-fuel

Social Media Drops the Hammer on Team Trump

Reddit and Twitch are the latest companies to take action against the president and his supporters, as platforms re-evaluate and reinforce hate speech policies.

source https://www.wired.com/story/twitch-reddit-hammer-team-trump-social-media

The 'Eye Mouth Eye' Debacle Sums Up Tech's Race Issues

Last weekend, the stunt aimed to use Silicon Valley's love of shiny new things for charity. The result left people wondering about the memeification of movements.

source https://www.wired.com/story/eye-mouth-eye

An Infrastructure Arms Race Is Fueling the Future of Gaming

As videogame companies increasingly shift to the cloud, data centers have taken on outsized importance.

source https://www.wired.com/story/cloud-gaming-infrastructure-arms-race

13 Best Google Assistant Speakers (2020): Smart Displays, Portable, and More

From smart displays to portable boomboxes, Google's smart voice assistant comes in all shapes and sizes. Here are our favorites.

source https://www.wired.com/gallery/best-google-speakers-buying-guide

Privacy Isn’t a Right You Can Click Away

Senator Sherrod Brown wants to drastically scale back the permitted uses of your personal data—and ban facial recognition outright.

source https://www.wired.com/story/privacy-isnt-a-right-you-can-click-away

NASA’s New Moon-Bound Space Suits Will Get a Boost From AI

Engineers are turning to generative design algorithms to build components for NASA’s next-generation space suit—the first major update in decades.

source https://www.wired.com/story/nasas-new-moon-bound-space-suits-will-get-a-boost-from-ai

The Anthropause: How the Pandemic Gives Scientists a New Way to Study Wildlife

A group of scientists argue that the Covid lockdown, what they're calling the “anthropause,” is an unprecedented opportunity to study how humans affect animal behavior.

source https://www.wired.com/story/the-anthropause-a-new-way-to-study-wildlife

An Ohio City's Campaign Got More People to Buy Electric Cars

In just three years, Columbus managed to exceed its goal of more than 3,200 new BEVs and plug-in hybrids .

source https://www.wired.com/story/an-ohio-citys-campaign-got-more-people-to-buy-electric-cars

How to Pick the Best Microsoft Surface Laptop or Tablet (2020)

If you're having trouble figuring out whether to get the 2-in-1 Windows tablet hybrid or a traditional laptop, we're here to help.

source https://www.wired.com/story/microsoft-surface-buying-guide

In Lockdown, Mathematicians Crack a Stubborn Geometry Riddle

The rectangular peg problem asks a seemingly simple question: Does a closed loop include the corners of every kind of rectangle?

source https://www.wired.com/story/in-lockdown-mathematicians-crack-a-stubborn-geometry-riddle

Review: Food Network Kitchen App Is Long on Recipes, Short on Diversity

The cable-TV cooking channel’s Kitchen app is full of videos from celebrity chefs, but the lack of racial representation feels more glaring than ever.

source https://www.wired.com/review/food-network-kitchen

How to Get Safari's New Privacy Features in Chrome and Firefox

Apple's browser is getting serious about security protections. If you can't or won't switch, don't worry: you don't have to fall behind.

source https://www.wired.com/story/get-safari-new-privacy-features-chrome-firefox

Is It Legal for Cops to Force You to Unlock Your Phone?

Because the relevant Supreme Court precedents predate the smartphone era, the courts are divided on how to apply the Fifth Amendment.

source https://www.wired.com/story/is-it-legal-for-cops-to-force-you-to-unlock-your-phone

Julian Assange Faces New Conspiracy Allegations

Plus: Evil Corp hacking, an anti-encryption bill, and more of the week's top security news.

source https://www.wired.com/story/julian-assange-encryption-bill-china-security-news

The Debate Over Burning Dead Trees to Create Biomass Energy

Critics worry about the risks of overcutting and wood smoke. But supporters say the practice will prevent megafires—which release even more carbon dioxide.

source https://www.wired.com/story/the-debate-over-burning-dead-trees-to-create-biomass-energy

The 18 Best Weekend Deals: Videogames, Sex Tech, Home Goods, and More

Discovering new ways to be bored while sheltering-in-place? Here are a few things that might help.

source https://www.wired.com/story/weekend-deals-june-27-2020

Old Drugs Could Reveal a New Way to Attack the Coronavirus

Researchers found that SARS-CoV-2 hijacks tendrils that grow from infected cells and may ride them to infect others. But existing compounds might slow their roll.

source https://www.wired.com/story/old-drugs-could-reveal-a-new-way-to-attack-the-coronavirus

Virtual Conferences Mean All-Access—Except When They Don't

The end of WWDC marks the end of Big Tech’s conference season. What did this virtual experiment reveal about the meaning of community?

source https://www.wired.com/story/wwdc-virtual-conferences-inclusion

The Best Podcast and Livestream Gear (2020): Mics, Stands, and More

If you've always wanted to start creating your own content, now is the time. This gear can help you get great audio and video quality from the start.

source https://www.wired.com/story/best-podcast-and-livestream-gear

Amazon Shakes Up the Race for Self-Driving—and Ride-Hailing

The ecommerce giant is buying Zoox, which is designing autonomous robotaxis. Beware Uber and Lyft.

source https://www.wired.com/story/amazon-shakes-self-driving-ride-hailing

Twitch Confronts Its Role in Streaming’s #MeToo Reckoning

Dozens of women have come forward with allegations of harassment and abuse by streamers who built their followings and power on the platform.

source https://www.wired.com/story/twitch-streaming-metoo-reckoning-sexual-misconduct-allegations

It's Time to Reboot the Violent Videogames Debate

Psychology professor Christopher J. Ferguson talks about his work on games—and about how gaming researchers can be surprisingly nasty.

source https://www.wired.com/2020/06/geeks-guide-videogame-researchers

Joel Schumacher and the Non-Crisis of Infinite Batmans

Batman Forever and Batman & Robin have been punch lines since the ’90s. But the director’s death reminds us that everyone has their own Dark Knight.

source https://www.wired.com/story/schumacher-batman-revisited

What Apple’s Silicon Chips Suggest About Its Future

Plus: A grand philosophical theory of products, why the internet isn't considered a utility, and reports of darker skies ahead.

source https://www.wired.com/story/plaintext-what-apples-silicon-chips-suggest-about-its-future

The 8 Best Reusable Water Bottles (2020): Insulated and Non-Insulated

Give up the disposables once and for all with these insulated and non-insulated alternatives.

source https://www.wired.com/gallery/best-reusable-water-bottles

It's Time for an End-of-Life Discussion About Nursing Homes

With residents and staff dying by the tens of thousands, the very future of long-term care should be in question.

source https://www.wired.com/story/its-time-for-an-end-of-life-discussion-about-nursing-homes

Apple’s Virtual WWDC Wasn’t Better Than the Real Thing

This week, we discuss Apple’s big news, and we admit our hope that tech conferences return to the real world sooner rather than later.

source https://www.wired.com/story/gadget-lab-podcast-461

The Rocket Motor of the Future Breathes Air Like a Jet Engine

This theoretical engine could drastically reduce the cost of getting to space. Now two companies are trying to make it real.

source https://www.wired.com/story/the-rocket-motor-of-the-future-breathes-air-like-a-jet-engine

An Embattled Group of Leakers Picks Up the WikiLeaks Mantle

After releasing over a million hacked law enforcement files, DDoSecrets got banned from Twitter. But it has no plans to slow down.

source https://www.wired.com/story/ddosecrets-blueleaks-wikileaks

Vaccine Makers Turn to Microchip Tech to Beat Glass Shortages

We'll need millions of vials to distribute the vaccine. The US government thinks manufacturing methods from the semiconductor industry can help.

source https://www.wired.com/story/vaccine-makers-turn-to-microchip-tech-to-beat-glass-shortages

How to Build the Perfect Pump-Up Playlist

Research shows that music makes a lot of us feel more inspired and productive. Here are some tips on finding your flow—and some tracks to get you started.

source https://www.wired.com/story/music-productivity-playlist-spotify-pandora

Trump's Latest Antics Are Just Reality TV Rebooted

Streaming broke the TV box. In 2016, Trump capitalized on that very disintegration—but his act is getting old.

source https://www.wired.com/story/trump-reality-tv

A New Card Ties Your Credit to Your Social Media Stats

Founded by Instagram and finance alums, Karat wants to be the black card in every influencer’s wallet.

source https://www.wired.com/story/karat-influencer-credit-card-social-media-stats

How K-Pop Stans Became an Activist Force to Be Reckoned With

Fans originally flocked to the community because it was apolitical, fantastical, and removed from American hegemony. Then came Donald Trump.

source https://www.wired.com/story/how-k-pop-stans-became-an-activist-force-to-be-reckoned-with

8 Best Smart Speakers (2020): Alexa, Google Assistant, Siri

Chatty speakers from Google, Amazon, and others are popular. But which one is right for you?

source https://www.wired.com/story/best-smart-speakers

Peer-Reviewed Scientific Journals Don't Really Do Their Job

The rapid sharing of pandemic research shows there is a better way to filter good science from bad.

source https://www.wired.com/story/peer-reviewed-scientific-journals-dont-really-do-their-job

If Done Right, AI Could Make Policing Fairer

Stanford's Fei-Fei Li says technology should be developed in an inclusive way that reflects our values.

source https://www.wired.com/story/done-right-ai-make-policing-fairer

Doomscrolling Is Slowly Eroding Your Mental Health

Checking your phone for an extra two hours every night won’t stop the apocalypse—but it could stop you from being psychologically prepared for it.

source https://www.wired.com/story/stop-doomscrolling

One of Klipsch's Google Speakers Is Half Off Right Now

The Klipsch “The Three” speaker sounds good and looks even better. It's as cheap as we've seen it.

source https://www.wired.com/story/klipsch-the-three-google-speaker-deal-2020

The 15 Best Cloth Face Masks: Ones We Actually Like to Wear

Cloth face coverings are gonna be around for a while, so here are the WIRED team's favorites for running, walking, and going to work.

source https://www.wired.com/gallery/best-face-masks

Scientists Taught Mice to Smell an Odor That Doesn’t Exist

With direct brain stimulation, mice learned to recognize an imaginary scent—and helped researchers understand a key piece of the olfactory puzzle.

source https://www.wired.com/story/scientists-taught-mice-to-smell-an-odor-that-doesnt-exist

How Thousands of Misplaced Emails Took Over This Engineer's Inbox

Kenton Varda gets dozens of messages a day from Spanish-speakers around the world, all thanks to a Gmail address he registered 16 years ago.

source https://www.wired.com/story/misplaced-emails-took-over-inbox-temporal

Why Massive Saharan Dust Plumes Are Blowing Into the US

Every summer, an atmospheric event propels desert dust thousands of miles across the Atlantic. This year is particularly bad, and timed terribly with Covid-19.

source https://www.wired.com/story/saharan-dust-plumes-are-blowing-into-the-us

Deal: TCL's 10 Pro and 10L Phones Are 15 Percent Off

The 10 Pro and 10L have quickly become some of our favorite contenders in the budget smartphone space. They're now discounted for a limited time.

source https://www.wired.com/story/tcl-10-pro-10l-june-2020-deals

A Flawed Facial Recognition System Sent This Man to Jail

Robert Williams may be the first person in the US arrested based on a bad match—exposing problems with the algorithms, and the ways they are used.

source https://www.wired.com/story/flawed-facial-recognition-system-sent-man-jail

Why Slack's CEO Doesn't Want to 'Kill Email'

The company's new Slack Connect feature will let up to 20 organizations share “channels” between them—but don't say goodbye to your inbox just yet.

source https://www.wired.com/story/slack-connect-email-stewart-butterfield-interview

Dexamethasone and the Recovery Trial’s High-Speed Science

In just three months, one British research team identified the first life-saving drug of the pandemic (and helped cancel hydroxychloroquine).

source https://www.wired.com/story/dexamethasone-and-the-recovery-trials-high-speed-science

A Survey of New Cars Finds More Tech Means More Problems

US carmakers fare well in JD Power's annual survey of new vehicle owners. Tesla gets poor grades on a small sample.

source https://www.wired.com/story/survey-new-cars-more-tech-problems

Google Will Delete Your Data by Default—in 18 Months

Starting today, the search giant will make a previously opt-in auto-delete feature the norm.

source https://www.wired.com/story/google-auto-delete-data

The US-China Battle Over the Internet Goes Under the Sea

The DOJ's opposition to Facebook and Google's 8,000-mile cable to Hong Kong highlights how physical infrastructure is as contentious as the virtual world.

source https://www.wired.com/story/opinion-the-us-china-battle-over-the-internet-goes-under-the-sea

How to Suspend Your Phone Service to Save Money (Verizon, T-Mobile, AT&T, Sprint)

You're probably using less cellular data while you shelter in place. Here's how you can temporarily pause your account—or switch to a cheaper network.

source https://www.wired.com/story/how-to-suspend-your-phone-service-and-data-plan

It’s Ridiculous to Treat Schools Like Covid Hot Zones

When students head back to class this fall, they may find themselves isolated from each other and wearing masks. This isn’t biosafety—it’s pandemic theater.

source https://www.wired.com/story/its-ridiculous-to-treat-schools-like-covid-hot-zones

'Carbon Farming' Could Make US Agriculture Truly Green

Today a Senate committee will hear about a bill that would help farmers adopt practices to release less carbon from the soil, reducing planetary warming.

source https://www.wired.com/story/carbon-farming-could-make-us-agriculture-truly-green

An Algorithm That 'Predicts' Criminality Based on a Face Sparks a Furor

Its creators said they could use facial analysis to determine if someone would become a criminal. Critics said the work recalled debunked “race science.”

source https://www.wired.com/story/algorithm-predicts-criminality-based-face-sparks-furor

The Best Smart Displays (2020): Google Assistant, Alexa, Portal

Ever wish you could smash a tablet and smart speaker together? These devices try to offer the best of both worlds.

source https://www.wired.com/gallery/best-smart-displays

Why the Arctic Is Warming So Fast, and Why That’s So Alarming

When permafrost thaws, sea ice disappears, and wildfires rage in the north, the consequences extend to the rest of the world.

source https://www.wired.com/story/why-the-arctic-is-warming-so-fast

The Future of Commerce Belongs to the Frictionless

The businesses that will survive after the pandemic are the ones who give us back our time.

source https://www.wired.com/story/opinion-the-future-of-commerce-belongs-to-the-frictionless

Poker and the Psychology of Uncertainty

The game has plenty to teach about making decisions with the cards we’ve been dealt—on and off the table.

source https://www.wired.com/story/poker-psychology-uncertainty

Airbnb Quietly Fired Hundreds of Contract Workers. I'm One of Them

While the company touted generous severance packages for its terminated employees, it offered unequal help to its shadow workforce.

source https://www.wired.com/story/airbnb-quietly-fired-hundreds-of-contract-workers-im-one-of-them

3 Great Pairs of Binoculars for Bird Watching

Whether you're hiking in the forest of just watching from home, these peepers are the best ways to bring your feathered friends closer.

source https://www.wired.com/story/3-great-binoculars-for-birdwatching

My Friend Was Struck by ALS. Here’s How He’s Fighting Back

At 37, Brian Wallach was diagnosed with the fatal disease. So he tapped a lifetime of connections to give help and hope to fellow sufferers—while grappling with his own mortality.

source https://www.wired.com/story/life-just-out-of-reach-als-brian-wallach

5 Weird Concepts to (Theoretically) Supercharge Mask Fabrics

From diamonds to salt, researchers are exploring novel materials for face coverings. But don't expect to see these far-out ideas in stores anytime soon.

source https://www.wired.com/story/weird-concepts-theoretically-supercharge-mask-fabrics

The Infinite Loop of Supply Chains

They aren't just petroleum and extruders and cargo ships. You and I are part of them too.

source https://www.wired.com/story/infinite-loop-supply-chains

How ‘Sustainable’ Web Design Can Help Fight Climate Change

To cut the carbon, programmers are cutting the code. Call it green programming.

source https://www.wired.com/story/sustainable-software-design-climate-change

Covid-19 and Living Through a New American Revolution

The collective action we've participated in over the past few months is transformational in a way we haven't seen in decades—maybe even centuries.

source https://www.wired.com/story/covid-19-new-american-revolution

Six-Word Sci-Fi: Imagine an Apocalypse With a Happy Ending

Each month we publish a six-word story—and it could be written by you.

source https://www.wired.com/story/six-word-sci-fi-apocalypse-happy-ending

Angry Nerd: The Merciless, Unblinking Eye of Zoom

I stare into the videoconference window, and it stares back. Even when I turn the camera off, what it sees haunts me.

source https://www.wired.com/story/angry-nerd-merciless-unblinking-zoom

Quarantined in New York, We Escape Skyward

When circumstances beyond our control put adventure on hold, we just climb the stairs to camp out in the urban jungle.

source https://www.wired.com/story/quarantine-new-york-roof-escape

President Trump Just Suspended the Tech Industry's Favorite Visa

The administration said the move will give US workers access to an additional 525,000 jobs. But sectors with lots of H-1B visas tend to have low unemployment.

source https://www.wired.com/story/president-trump-suspended-tech-industrys-favorite-visa

Apple Pushes Back Against Ad Tracking in Safari and iOS 14

At WWDC, the company detailed a litany of privacy-friendly improvements to its software.

source https://www.wired.com/story/apple-ios-14-safari-privacy-ad-tracking

Apple Will Starting Putting Its Own Apple Silicon Chips Into Macs

The shift, coming later this year, will have an outsize impact on the silicon suppliers who currently power the PC industry.

source https://www.wired.com/story/apple-will-put-its-own-chips-into-macs

iOS 14 Revealed: Every New iPhone Feature Apple Showed Off

Your home screen is changing, and your car keys may become optional. Here's what you can expect in your next big phone update.

source https://www.wired.com/story/apple-iphone-ios-14-new-features

Microsoft's Livestreaming Service Mixer Will Shut Down

The company announced it's shutting down its livestreaming service and will soon redirect to Facebook Gaming.

source https://www.wired.com/story/microsoft-shutting-down-mixer-facebook-gaming

A Startup Takes ‘Investing in People’ Literally. Not Everyone Approves

Human IPO lets individuals sell their time on the open market. Its cofounders believe its valuation model is agnostic—but it may still reflect an unequal world.

source https://www.wired.com/story/human-ipo-startup-investing-people

Everything Apple Announced at WWDC 2020 (So Far)

The company's annual developer conference, streaming online this year, has been rich with announcements. Here's the latest news from the WWDC stage.

source https://www.wired.com/story/wwdc-2020-everything-apple-announced

Anonymous Stole and Leaked a Megatrove of Police Documents

The so-called BlueLeaks collection includes internal memos, financial records, and more from over 200 state, local, and federal agencies.

source https://www.wired.com/story/blueleaks-anonymous-law-enforcement-hack

Who's to Blame for Plastic Microfiber Pollution?

Tiny bits of plastic are corrupting every corner of the planet. The major culprits: cheap synthetic clothing and washing machines.

source https://www.wired.com/story/whos-to-blame-for-plastic-microfiber-pollution

Why NASA Designed a New $23 Million Space Toilet

Later this year, astronauts on the American module of the ISS will be able to test out the toilet before NASA puts it on crewed vehicles for deep-space missions.

source https://www.wired.com/story/why-nasa-designed-a-new-dollar23-million-space-toilet

There's No Cure for Covid-19 Loneliness, but Robots Can Help

It's hard to replace human contact. But during a pandemic, robots can help patients fight off feelings of isolation and despair.

source https://www.wired.com/story/covid-19-robot-companions

Stuck at Home, Scientists Discover 9 New Insect Species

Without a DNA sequencer, two Los Angeles entomologists relied on two of biology’s oldest tools: microscopes and lots of free time.

source https://www.wired.com/story/stuck-at-home-scientists-discover-9-new-insect-species

Once a WFH Staple, Athleisure Gets Down to Business

When people go back to work, they won't want to return to the office wear of the Before Times. So sporty clothing brands are pivoting to productive comfort.

source https://www.wired.com/story/athleisure-gets-down-to-business

The Two Faces of Facebook's Election Plans

The social media giant plans a big voter-registration push. But it still struggles to combat political misinformation.

source https://www.wired.com/story/two-faces-facebooks-election-plans

European Football Clubs Are Turning to AI for an Assist

Software company Acronis has been storing the data of the best and brightest teams. Now, it wants to use that to help them win games.

source https://www.wired.com/story/european-football-clubs-are-turning-to-ai-for-an-assist

Best MacBooks (2020): Air vs. Pro, Which Model Should You Buy?

13-inch MacBook Pro or MacBook Air? Let us help you navigate Apple's laptop lineup.

source https://www.wired.com/story/which-macbook-should-you-buy

A Super Sensitive Dark Matter Search Yields Strange Results

Researchers say there are three possible explanations for the anomalous data: One is mundane. Two would revolutionize physics.

source https://www.wired.com/story/a-super-sensitive-dark-matter-search-yields-strange-results

What Is a Side Channel Attack?

Computers constantly give off more information than you might realize—which hackers can use to pry out their secrets.

source https://www.wired.com/story/what-is-side-channel-attack

The Best Music Gear to Learn an Instrument (2020)

Want to play guitar, piano, or your old clarinet? From mics to metronomes, here's a list of our favorite tools for learning a musical instrument.

source https://www.wired.com/story/best-gear-for-learning-music

How to Watch Apple's WWDC 2020 Keynote (and What to Expect)

You can stream Monday's WWDC keynote on your iOS device, on your computer, or—the best way—on your Apple TV.

source https://www.wired.com/story/how-to-watch-apple-wwdc-2020-keynote

How to Switch to Signal and Bring All your Texts With You

Thinking of boosting your SMS security by switching to Signal? These tips make sure your messages come with you—even to a new phone.

source https://www.wired.com/story/how-to-switch-to-signal

Ground-Penetrating Radar Mapped a Buried Ancient Roman City

Archaeologists have found a monument, market, temple, bath complex, and water pipes from the walled town of Falerii Novi.

source https://www.wired.com/story/ground-penetrating-radar-mapped-a-buried-ancient-roman-city

We Need More Movies Where the Sharks Win

Jaws is great, but no one has ever been able to build on what Steven Spielberg did.

source https://www.wired.com/2020/06/geeks-guide-shark-movies

Sneaky Mac Malware Is Posing as Flash Downloads

Plus: OnlyFans pirates, a nasty Netgear bug, and more of the week's top security news.

source https://www.wired.com/story/mac-malware-flash-installer-onlyfans-pirates-netgear-zero-day-security-news

The 8 Best Chef Knives for Your Kitchen (2020): Affordable, Japanese, Carbon Steel

It's the indispensable multi-tool of the kitchen. We sliced and diced our way through meats and veggies to find today's best blades.

source https://www.wired.com/gallery/best-chef-knives

eBay and the Deliveries You Never Wanted

This week, we discuss the harassment campaign allegedly carried out by six former eBay employees against the owners of a news website critical of the ecommerce industry.

source https://www.wired.com/story/gadget-lab-podcast-460

Microtransit Gives City Agencies a Lift During the Pandemic

Public transit ridership has dropped, so some cities are trying on-demand apps for more private van, bus, or shuttle rides—and possibly contact tracing.

source https://www.wired.com/story/microtransit-gives-city-agencies-a-lift-during-the-pandemic

The 15 Best Weekend Deals: Tablets, Laptops, TVs, and More

Now's the time to buy gear from Apple and Amazon at a discount, or to snag a 65-inch TV to improve your Netflix binge sessions.

source https://www.wired.com/story/weekend-deals-june-20-2020

A Deep Dive With the Weirdest Fishes in the Sea

Go behind the scenes at the California Academy of Sciences to see their greatest specimens, including fish from the “Twilight Zone” and a massive megalodon tooth.

source https://www.wired.com/story/a-deep-dive-with-the-weirdest-fishes-in-the-sea

Best Bike Accessories (2020): Helmets, Bells, Tools, and More

You got a bicycle! Here are our favorite items, from bells to helmets, to make your rides safer and more pleasant.

source https://www.wired.com/gallery/best-biking-cycling-accessories

A Report Blames ‘CIA Failures’ for the Agency's Worst Hack

A series of WikiLeaks disclosures that exposed a trove of the intelligence organization's secrets could have been avoided, a task force found.

source https://www.wired.com/story/a-report-blames-cia-failures-for-the-agencys-worst-hack

The True Return of LGBTQ+ Pride

After years of rainbow marketing and slogans, June is once again a time of queer action—and revolution.

source https://www.wired.com/story/true-return-of-pride

eBay’s Harassment Campaign Didn’t Happen in a Vacuum

Plus: Meg Whitman’s experience with angry commenters, technology’s double-edged sword, and the wrath of the primates.

source https://www.wired.com/story/plaintext-ebays-harassment-campaign-didnt-happen-in-a-vacuum

Roborock S6 MaxV Review: A Robot Vac That Avoids Dog Poop

If you’ve recently acquired a pandemic puppy, you might need a robot vacuum that can recognize pet poop.

source https://www.wired.com/review/roborock-s6-maxv-robot-vacuum

Why Juneteenth Went Viral

The George Floyd protests have brought the holiday to the foreground. May it be a day of reflection and reckoning.

source https://www.wired.com/story/why-juneteenth-went-viral

Shelter In Place Works—If You Can Afford to Stay Home

In San Francisco’s Mission District, a study showed Covid-19 tests aren't enough if people can’t take time off of work. They need financial and social support, too.

source https://www.wired.com/story/shelter-in-place-works-if-you-can-afford-to-stay-home

No, You Don't Need to See President Trump's Medical Records

Throughout history, US presidents have fudged the truth about their health. But all the data voters need about Trump is already out for everyone to see.

source https://www.wired.com/story/no-you-dont-need-to-see-president-trumps-medical-records

Facebook and Twitter Want to Keep the Justice System Skewed Against Defendants

Their CEOs have pledged support for reform amid the George Floyd protests—while their lawyers are fighting to preserve law enforcement’s advantage in court.

source https://www.wired.com/story/facebook-twitter-criminal-justice-stored-communications-act

How Surveillance Has Always Reinforced Racism

Sociologist and author Simone Browne connects the dots between modern marketing and the branding of slaves.

source https://www.wired.com/story/how-surveillance-reinforced-racism

Amazon Touts AI for Social Distancing Amid Worker Complaints

Facing criticism over workplace safety, the company is using cameras, sensors, and augmented reality to warn employees when they're too close to one another.

source https://www.wired.com/story/amazon-touts-ai-social-distancing-worker-complaints

What Minnesota’s Protests Are Revealing About Covid-19 Spread

After George Floyd’s killing, experts warned that demonstrations could set off new waves of infections. But early testing in Minneapolis tells another story.

source https://www.wired.com/story/what-minnesotas-protests-are-revealing-about-covid-19-spread

How TikTok's 'For You' Algorithm Works

For the first time, the social media company is opening up about its most mysterious feature.

source https://www.wired.com/story/tiktok-finally-explains-for-you-algorithm-works

The Meme-Fueled Rise of a Dangerous, Far-Right Militia

The Boogaloo Bois have been showing up online and IRL since the start of 2020. Now they're materializing at George Floyd protests.

source https://www.wired.com/story/boogaloo-movement-protests

Microsoft Surface Go 2 Review: An Improvement in Every Way

The company's latest model delivers on the hybrid laptop-tablet we've been waiting for. Just don't use it for power-hungry tasks.

source https://www.wired.com/review/microsoft-surface-go-2

If the Virus Slows This Summer, It May Be Time to Worry

We hoped that Covid-19 would be a seasonal infection. We hoped wrong.

source https://www.wired.com/story/if-the-coronavirus-slows-this-summer-it-may-be-time-to-worry

The Trouble With Counting Aliens

A new study estimates that there might only be 36 communicating extraterrestrial civilizations in our galaxy. But that number doesn’t tell the whole story.

source https://www.wired.com/story/the-trouble-with-counting-aliens

20 Last-Minute Father's Day Gift Ideas and Deals (2020)

If you want to show your appreciation for Dad with something more than a phone call, one of these deals might make the old man smile. But you better hurry!

source https://www.wired.com/story/last-minute-fathers-day-gift-ideas-deals-2020

Baidu Breaks Off an AI Alliance Amid Strained US-China Ties

The search giant was the only Chinese member of the Partnership on Artificial Intelligence, a US-led effort to foster collaboration on ethical issues.

source https://www.wired.com/story/baidu-breaks-ai-alliance-strained-us-china-ties

How to Make Government Trustworthy Again

Why have some Asian countries controlled their outbreaks so well? It's because authorities have earned their citizens' confidence.

source https://www.wired.com/story/how-to-make-government-trustworthy-again

Videoconferencing Needs to Climb Out of the Uncanny Valley

Many people will continue to WFH more, but remote communication tools are still lacking. Tech companies are racing to add more presence to our telepresence.

source https://www.wired.com/story/wfh-videoconferencing-should-climb-out-of-the-uncanny-valley

Coronavirus Researchers Are Dismantling Science’s Ivory Tower—One Study at a Time

Homebound scientists were looking for ways to help battle the pandemic. I put out a call on Twitter, and the Covid-19 Dispersed Volunteer Network was born.

source https://www.wired.com/story/covid-19-studies-dismantle-science-ivory-tower

News at 11: Kid Reporters Tackle the Coronavirus

I started a Covid-themed newspaper for the children in my neighborhood. It turned into a global outlet for youth journalism—and no-parents-allowed tips for acquiring candy.

source https://www.wired.com/story/kid-reporters-tackle-coronavirus-newspaper

Live Wrong and Prosper: Covid-19 and the Future of Families

Many of us are failing to build the secure, stable households we were taught to desire. But new shapes of family are emerging from the isolation of quarantine.

source https://www.wired.com/story/live-wrong-prosper-covid-19-future-of-families

What Will Science, Tech, and Life Look Like After Covid-19?

What happens next? Writers share stories of a world—and a future—transformed by a viral cataclysm.

source https://www.wired.com/story/what-happens-after-coronavirus-pandemic

After the Virus: How We'll Learn, Age, Move, Listen, and Create

We asked a geriatrician, the CEO of Bandcamp, a public schools chief, a transportation expert, and the US poet laureate what to expect in the wake of Covid-19.

source https://www.wired.com/story/after-coronavirus-how-we-age-move-listen-learn-create

Bot Mafias Have Wreaked Havoc in 'World of Warcraft Classic'

Blizzard has suspended or closed over 74,000 accounts in the last month, as bots have upended the game's economy.

source https://www.wired.com/story/world-of-warcraft-classic-russian-bots

The FDA Revokes Its Emergency Use Authorization for Hydroxychloroquine

So far, no studies have shown that the anti-malarial drug can fight Covid-19, and agency officials say its potential benefits do not outweigh its risks.

source https://www.wired.com/story/the-fda-revokes-its-emergency-use-authorization-for-hydroxychloroquine

Zoom Reverses Course and Promises End-to-End Encryption for All Users

The video conferencing platform had previously said that only paid accounts would get the feature—a move privacy advocates roundly decried.

source https://www.wired.com/story/zoom-end-to-end-encryption-for-everyone

Screen Share: A College Teacher’s Zoom Journal

For 15 years, Anne Fadiman and her students huddled in cozy classrooms to study the craft of writing. Then came Covid-19.

source https://www.wired.com/story/screen-share-a-college-teachers-zoom-journal-anne-fadiman

Body Cameras Haven't Stopped Police Brutality. Here's Why

Amid worldwide protests over racism and police violence, lawmakers are once again turning to the devices as a tool for reform.

source https://www.wired.com/story/body-cameras-stopped-police-brutality-george-floyd

New Pokémon Snap Revives a Classic for Nintendo Switch

It’s like birding, but for fantasy pocket monsters.

source https://www.wired.com/story/new-pokemon-snap-nintendo-switch

Best Sites, Apps, and YouTube Channels to Learn Music (2020)

Modern technology makes studying to play a new instrument easier than ever. And the best part? Most of these tools are free or affordable.

source https://www.wired.com/story/best-music-apps-and-services

Three Steps to Make Tech Companies More Equitable

Diversity isn't data. It's about asking the hard, human questions, and involving everyone across an organization.

source https://www.wired.com/story/opinion-three-steps-to-make-tech-companies-more-equitable

Facebook Groups Are Destroying America

They're built for privacy and community—and that's just what makes them dangerous.

source https://www.wired.com/story/facebook-groups-are-destroying-america

Covid-19 Is Bad. But It May Not Be the ‘Big One’

Health experts want a 9/11 Commission-style report on the US pandemic response. They say we must forecast and prepare for outbreaks as we do for wars or weather.

source https://www.wired.com/story/covid-19-is-bad-but-it-may-not-be-the-big-one

Coronavirus Tips and Supplies Guide: What to Buy (and Avoid) for Home

Don't: hoard toilet paper and medical masks. Do: make sure you shop less often and stay prepared.

source https://www.wired.com/story/covid-19-gear-supplies-guide

The Therapist Is In—and It's a Chatbot App

Companies rush to offer digital help for psychiatric disorders, after the FDA relaxes its rules amid the Covid-19 pandemic.

source https://www.wired.com/story/therapist-in-chatbot-app

The Design and Science of Patio Dining During a Pandemic

Public health experts think Covid-19 risk is lower outside, and restaurateurs want to fill tables. It’s an easy solution—except for all the hard parts.

source https://www.wired.com/story/the-design-and-science-of-patio-dining-during-a-pandemic

How to Spot Phony Images and Online Propaganda

During times of crisis—and presidential elections—manipulated photos and videos flood social media. But there are a few tricks you can use to avoid getting duped.

source https://www.wired.com/story/how-to-spot-fake-images

Apple Threatens to Move Basecamp's New Email App to Trash

Scrutiny of Apple’s App Store policies heats up as the company heads into its annual software conference.

source https://www.wired.com/story/apple-threatens-basecamp-email-app

The Russian Disinfo Operation You Never Heard About

Secondary Infektion appears to be a distinct effort from the meddling of the IRA and GRU—and it went undetected for years.

source https://www.wired.com/story/russia-secondary-infektion-disinformation

Universities Step Up the Fight for Open-Access Research

Today’s deal between the University of California and publisher Springer Nature is a big milestone on the path to dismantling paywalls around academic journals.

source https://www.wired.com/story/universities-step-up-the-fight-for-open-access-research

You Can Now Buy Spot the Robot Dog—If You’ve Got $74,500

Boston Dynamics is finally making its mechanical canine available for businesses and developers. But know that this puppy ain't for everyone.

source https://www.wired.com/story/you-can-now-buy-spot-the-robot-dog

Composers Are Ditching Hollywood—to Make Videogame Music

Films were once the most coveted medium, but talented composers now view games on an equal footing.

source https://www.wired.com/story/composers-are-ditching-hollywood-to-make-videogame-music

Ripple20 Bugs Put Hundreds of Millions of IoT Devices at Risk

The so-called Ripple20 vulnerabilities affect equipment found in data centers, power grids, and more.

source https://www.wired.com/story/ripple20-iot-vulnerabilities

The Best Smart Plugs (2020): Plugs, Power Strips, and More

An internet-connected plug can give any basic appliance a brain. Here are our favorites, from Wyze to TP-Link Kasa, and a few we don't like.

source https://www.wired.com/gallery/best-smart-plugs

The Auto Industry Is Wrecked—Let’s Rebuild It With Electric

It’s the perfect time for a transportation revolution: the Green-Car New Deal.

source https://www.wired.com/story/the-auto-industry-is-wrecked-lets-rebuild-it-with-electric

How to Disinfect Everything: Coronavirus Home Cleaning Tips

These are our in-depth best practices for keeping yourself (and just about everything else) clean and Covid-19 free.

source https://www.wired.com/story/coronavirus-disinfectant-cleaning-guide

We Can Protect the Economy From Pandemics. Why Didn't We?

A virologist helped crack an impossible problem: how to insure against the economic fallout from devastating viral outbreaks. The plan was ingenious. Yet we're still in this mess.

source https://www.wired.com/story/nathan-wolfe-global-economic-fallout-pandemic-insurance

Ex-Ebay Execs Allegedly Made Life Hell for Critics

Surveillance. Harassment. A live cockroach delivery. US Attorneys have charged six former Ebay workers in association with an outrageous cyberstalking campaign.

source https://www.wired.com/story/ebay-employees-charged-cyberstalking-harassment-campaign

Dating Apps Exposed 845GB of Explicit Photos, Chats, and More

3somes, Gay Daddy Bear, and Herpes Dating are among the nine services that leaked the data of hundreds of thousands of users.

source https://www.wired.com/story/dating-apps-leak-explicit-photos-screenshots

How to Trade In or Sell Your iPhone (2020): Swappa, Gazelle, uSell

If you're planning on upgrading to a new device, don't forget to cash in on your old one.

source https://www.wired.com/story/how-to-trade-in-or-sell-your-iphone

When Doctors and Patients Talk About Death Over Zoom

During the Covid-19 pandemic, palliative care specialists are discovering that technology can add a lot to these difficult discussions.

source https://www.wired.com/story/when-doctors-and-patients-talk-about-death-over-zoom

Home Office Setup Guide: The Best Gear for Working at Home

Do you need a monitor, desk, webcam, laptop, microphone, or pair of headphones? Here's our ultimate laundry list of recommended gear to improve your new home office.

source https://www.wired.com/story/work-from-home-home-office-gear-guide

As Cities Reopen, Expect to Wait in Lots of Lines

Capacity limits and social distancing requirements prompt businesses to count how many people are inside—and force some to wait outside.

source https://www.wired.com/story/cities-reopen-expect-wait-lines

Can a Keyboard Crusade Stem the Vaccine Infodemic?

Anti-vaccine messages on social media have tripled since the pandemic began. One public health group wants to teach pro-vaccine Americans to fight fire with fire.

source https://www.wired.com/story/can-a-keyboard-crusade-stem-the-vaccine-infodemic

How To Stop Instagram From Tracking Everything You Do

Though the Facebook-owned app doesn't give users complete control, there are ways to limit the data it collects and the types of ads you see.

source https://www.wired.com/story/how-to-stop-instagram-from-tracking-everything-you-do

Best Sex Toys & Tech for Every Body: Vibrators, Wand Massagers, Etc

Stuck inside? Here are our favorite gender-inclusive adult devices to give you (and your partners) a helping hand.

source https://www.wired.com/gallery/best-sex-toys-and-tech

Astronomers Track a Fast Radio Burst to Its Source—a Magnetar

The origin of these explosions of radio waves has long been an astrophysics mystery. Now one has been traced to an ultra-dense spinning magnetized stellar core.

source https://www.wired.com/story/astronomers-track-a-fast-radio-burst-to-its-source-a-magnetar

A Bird Feeder Will Bring You Joy

The world seems terrible these days. Let yourself soar above it all—at least for a moment—by making some new feathered friends.

source https://www.wired.com/story/own-a-bird-feeder-rave

The Grandmaster Who Got Twitch Hooked on Chess

Hikaru Nakamura is the top-ranked blitz chess player in the world—and his channel has seen a meteoric rise as he coaches streamers in the ancient game.

source https://www.wired.com/story/hikaru-nakamura-twitch-chess

How to Clean Up Your Old Posts on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram

These tips and tools will help you scrub your social media profiles clean, or give you a fresh start without giving up your username and followers.

source https://www.wired.com/story/delete-old-twitter-facebook-instagram-posts

Zoom Shut Down US-Based Activists at China's Request

Hackers for hire, a particularly ignominious phishing campaign, and more of the week's top security news.

source https://www.wired.com/story/zoom-china-facebook-fbi-security-news

The Internet Needs a New Architecture that Puts Users First

Treating the internet like a public utility only bolsters the platform giants. A more secure model starts with control by the people.

source https://www.wired.com/story/opinion-the-internet-needs-a-new-architecture-that-puts-users-first

Alex Garland May Be Too Good for This World

The filmmaker's Hulu show Devs is the latest in a long line of amazing cerebral sci-fi.

source https://www.wired.com/2020/06/geeks-guide-alex-garland

5 Best Snack Subscription Boxes (2020): Universal Yums, MunchPak, Bokksu

We did the hard work of snacking to help you level up your nosh game.

source https://www.wired.com/gallery/best-snack-subscription-boxes

In Alaska, Summer's Getting Too Hot for the Salmon Run

Bristol Bay is heating up, killing fish as they try to swim upriver to spawn. It's a harbinger of climate change and hard times for fisheries.

source https://www.wired.com/story/in-alaska-summers-getting-too-hot-for-the-salmon-run

17 Best Weekend Deals: Laptops, Phones, Videogames, and More

Need a gift for dad? How about a recent grad? We've rounded up the best sales on all our favorite tech.

source https://www.wired.com/story/weekend-deals-june-13-2020

A New Air Taxi Model Takes Design Cues From a Far-Flying Bird

Beta Technologies' Alia, which debuted Friday, draws inspiration from the ultra-efficient Arctic tern. The craft may one day transport organs for transplants.

source https://www.wired.com/story/new-air-taxi-design-cues-far-flying-bird

A Bill in Congress Would Limit Uses of Facial Recognition

Amazon, Microsoft, and IBM say they want federal rules around the technology. Critics of the proposal, sponsored by four Democrats, say it doesn't go far enough.

source https://www.wired.com/story/bill-congress-limit-uses-facial-recognition

Coder-Turned-Kingpin Paul Le Roux Gets His Comeuppance

The programmer who became a flagrant drug lord and weapons trafficker was sentenced in New York City to 25 years in prison.

source https://www.wired.com/story/coder-turned-kingpin-paul-le-roux-gets-his-comeuppance

Deepfakes Aren't Very Good. Nor Are the Tools to Detect Them

The winning detection algorithm from a Facebook-led challenge could spot about two-thirds of the altered videos, highlighting the need for improvement.

source https://www.wired.com/story/deepfakes-not-very-good-nor-tools-detect

The Covid-19 Economic Slump Is Closing Down Coal Plants

This year, coal usage has dropped in the US, and renewables now generate more electricity. To some experts, the financial crisis is a clean energy opportunity.

source https://www.wired.com/story/the-covid-19-economic-slump-is-closing-down-coal-plants

19 Best Nintendo Switch Games (2020): 'Odyssey', 'Cuphead', and More

From Hyrule to Hallownest, these are our absolute favorite videogame escapes for the Switch and Switch Lite, including multiplayer, co-op, and single-player games.

source https://www.wired.com/gallery/best-nintendo-switch-games

A Council of Citizens Should Regulate Algorithms

To ensure our AI-driven future is just ant equitable, we should borrow from Ancient Athens.

source https://www.wired.com/story/opinion-a-council-of-citizens-should-regulate-algorithms

Citizen Isn't Here to Be Your Free-Speech Platform

Plus: The birth of digital maps, the timeline for self-driving cars, and a recalculation of doomsday.

source https://www.wired.com/story/plaintext-citizen-isnt-here-to-be-your-free-speech-platform

The Hunt Is On for Elusive Ghost Particles in Antarctica

Ultrahigh-energy neutrinos could help scientists unravel some of the biggest mysteries in astrophysics—and the best place to find them may be the South Pole.

source https://www.wired.com/story/the-hunt-is-on-for-elusive-ghost-particles-in-antarctica

Your Most Vexing New Coronavirus Questions, Answered

In some ways things are getting harder, not easier, as shelter-in-place orders lift worldwide. On this week's episode, we tackle tough new corona-questions.

source https://www.wired.com/story/gadget-lab-podcast-459

Researchers Expose a New Vulnerability in Intel's CPUs

The Software Guard eXtension is supposed to protect encryption keys and other sensitive data. But this isn't the first time it's been defeated.

source https://www.wired.com/story/researchers-expose-a-new-vulnerability-in-intels-cpus

The Country Is Reopening. I’m Still on Lockdown

For those of us with vulnerable loved ones, the risks of Covid-19 seem more dangerous than ever—with no end in sight.

source https://www.wired.com/story/country-is-reopening-im-still-on-lockdown

Father's Day Gifts: 40 Gift Ideas for the Dad in Your Life

From a pizza oven to a hand coffee grinder, we've got lots of ideas for how to show appreciation for your father figures.

source https://www.wired.com/gallery/best-fathers-day-gift-ideas-2020

The Pandemic Is Propelling a New Wave of Automation

Software programs adopted during the Covid-19 crisis make it easier to complete forms and track requests. It saves work, but could cost jobs.

source https://www.wired.com/story/pandemic-propelling-new-wave-automation

Spies Can Eavesdrop by Watching a Light Bulb's Vibrations

The so-called lamphone technique allows for real-time listening in on a room that's hundreds of feet away.

source https://www.wired.com/story/lamphone-light-bulb-vibration-spying

'Last of Us Part II' Is Great, but Can't Escape Its Father's Shadow

'The Last of Us' was the quintessential dad game. Its sequel is destined to be the archetype of something else: the daughter game.

source https://www.wired.com/story/last-of-us-part-ii-review

PS5 Games Revealed (Trailers): Every Game Sony Just Announced

The company's June E3-like online event was filled with trailers and teasers galore. Here’s everything we learned.

source https://www.wired.com/story/sony-playstation-5-event-games

Twitter's Newest Trick Relies on Tracking More of Your Clicks

The social media company is testing warnings for users who try to share links to articles they haven't read. To do that, it has to know what you've read.

source https://www.wired.com/story/twitters-newest-trick-relies-tracking-your-clicks

This Is What the PlayStation 5 Looks Like. Both of Them

We finally saw Sony’s new PS5 and the two consoles (plural!) are ... curvy.

source https://www.wired.com/story/sony-playstation-5-reveal

Best Videogame Sales in June (2020): Xbox, PlayStation, Switch, PC, and More

The annual videogame conference may have gone digital this year, but there are still celebratory deals. Here are our favorites.

source https://www.wired.com/story/best-e3-game-deals-2020

Plastic Rain Is the New Acid Rain

Researchers find that over 1,000 metric tons of microplastic fall on 11 protected areas in the US annually, equivalent to over 120 million plastic water bottles.

source https://www.wired.com/story/plastic-rain-is-the-new-acid-rain

The Removal of 'Gone with the Wind' From HBO Max Isn't Censorship

The streaming service's decision to temporarily pull the film from its roster isn't suppression—it's an opportunity to recontextualize.

source https://www.wired.com/story/gone-with-the-wind-hbo-max

OpenAI's Text Generator Is Going Commercial

The research institute was created to steer AI away from harmful uses. Now it's competing with tech giants to sell a cloud computing service to businesses.

source https://www.wired.com/story/openai-text-generator-going-commercial

8 Best Camera Accessories for Android and iPhone (2020)

From mobile lenses to shotgun mics, here’s everything you need to assemble a portable, pro-grade photo studio.

source https://www.wired.com/gallery/best-photo-video-accessories-for-iphone-android

The Cyberwar Needs More Women on the Front Lines

To combat criminals who prey on women and children, we must start educating girls to be the cybersecurity leaders of tomorrow.

source https://www.wired.com/story/opinion-the-cyber-war-needs-more-women-on-the-front-lines

Hollywood Is About to Reopen. It Could Be Better Than Before

When TV and film production restarts, the industry has an opportunity to fix its long-entrenched inequalities and invest in black and brown artists.

source https://www.wired.com/story/hollywood-reborn

Is it Save to Send My Child to Back to Day Care

As parents, we may have to develop a new level of comfort with a certain level of risk.

source https://www.wired.com/story/should-i-send-my-kid-back-to-day-care

The Musk of Romance

Like her brother Elon, Tosca Musk is a revolutionary—in the steamy, softcore genre of romance movies.

source https://www.wired.com/story/tosca-musk-romance-passionflix

What's Confusing About Calling Covid-19 Cases ‘Asymptomatic’

There’s a difference between people who never develop symptoms and people who just don’t have them yet. And that matters when calculating public health risk.

source https://www.wired.com/story/whats-confusing-about-calling-covid-19-cases-asymptomatic

Amazon Won't Let Police Use Its Facial Recognition Tech for One Year

Amid nationwide protests over police brutality, the company is stopping law enforcement from using its most controversial product.

source https://www.wired.com/story/amazon-facial-recognition-police-one-year-ban-rekognition

Coronavirus Guide: Symptoms, Testing, Treatment, and Economics

Everything we know about Covid-19, from avoiding the virus to caring for your loved ones, with regular updates.

source https://www.wired.com/story/coronavirus-guide-faq-advice

3 Black Photographers on Capturing the George Floyd Protests

Lynsey Weatherspoon, Alexis Hunley, and Darrel Hunter capture the narrative and moral identity of Black protesters in an era of misinformation and surveillance.

source https://www.wired.com/story/black-photographers-george-floyd-protests

Android 11 Will Help You Rein In Zombie App Permissions

The latest update to Google's operating system has a host of privacy and security improvements.

source https://www.wired.com/story/android-11-security-permissions-updates

Georgia’s Failure Shows How Not to Run an Election in the Pandemic

Limiting in-person polling sites makes it both harder to vote and more dangerous.

source https://www.wired.com/story/georgia-failure-how-not-to-run-election-pandemic

The Best Gaming Mouse (2020): Razer, SteelSeries, Logitech

Whether you're into esports or casual fragging, these are the best corded and wireless gaming mice we've tested at a variety of price points.

source https://www.wired.com/gallery/best-gaming-mouse

Sonos Arc Soundbar Review: A Dolby Atmos Dream

The latest home theater speaker from Sonos sounds better than almost any soundbar you can buy. Plus, it has major smarts.

source https://www.wired.com/review/sonos-arc-soundbar

The Pandemic and the Protests Are Mirror Images

The debate over Covid-19 and the uprisings against police brutality share perilous pasts and uncertain futures. Together, they can teach us where to go next.

source https://www.wired.com/story/opinion-the-pandemic-and-the-protests-are-mirror-images

Podhero Wants to Be Patreon for Podcasts

The streaming app aims to take on Spotify—and the entire podcast advertising business—by charging listeners a subscription fee.

source https://www.wired.com/story/podhero

The Dangers of Excluding Women From HIV Prevention Drug Tests

PrEP, or pre-exposure prophylaxis, pills are highly effective in blocking HIV if taken daily. But their drug trials have a mixed track record for access.

source https://www.wired.com/story/the-dangers-of-excluding-women-from-hiv-prevention-drug-tests

Across the Globe, Scientists Are Striking for Black Lives

On June 10, thousands of academics are stopping research activities to educate themselves about disparities and take action against systemic racism in science.

source https://www.wired.com/story/across-the-globe-scientists-are-striking-for-black-lives

IBM's Withdrawal Won't Mean the End of Facial Recognition

Many other companies continue to offer similar services, which studies show are less accurate for women and people of color.

source https://www.wired.com/story/ibm-withdrawal-wont-mean-end-facial-recognition

Nintendo Game Boy Hackers Are Building a Better Retro Console

Fueled by nostalgia and longing for a simpler time, hardware tinkerers are injecting new life into the iconic handheld game console.

source https://www.wired.com/story/nintendo-game-boy-hackers

'The Last of Us Part II' and Its Crisis-Strewn Path to Release

Videogame developer Naughty Dog was racing to finish the sequel to its blockbuster set in a post-pandemic dystopia. Then it was hit with trolls, hackers—and a real pandemic.

source https://www.wired.com/story/last-of-us-part-ii-sequel-release-pandemic

Zynn, the Hot New Video App, Is Full of Stolen Content

Multiple influencers told WIRED that their videos had been copied from other platforms and reposted to Zynn without permission.

source https://www.wired.com/story/zynn-hot-new-video-app-stolen-content

Black Investors Call On VCs to Fix Hiring and Funding

Mentoring and networking advice aren’t enough to solve the industry’s dismal diversity numbers, say business leaders: Firms need to “Make the hire. Send the wire.”

source https://www.wired.com/story/black-investors-vc-funding-make-hire-send-wire

Behind the Scenes With the Monterey Bay Aquarium's Master of Jellyfish

Aquarist Mac Bubel takes you into the rarely seen “jelly lab” to explore how she raises these sensitive, hypnotic creatures.

source https://www.wired.com/story/behind-the-scenes-monterey-bay-aquarium-jellyfish

The Best Kindle to Buy (and Which to Avoid) for 2020

Amazon has four different ebook readers and a ton of older ones. Here's how they stack up and which may be right for you.

source https://www.wired.com/gallery/best-kindle

The Protests Prove the Need to Regulate Surveillance Tech

US policymakers too often argue that regulation is about geopolitical competition. But algorithms have perpetuated harm and inequality at home.

source https://www.wired.com/story/opinion-the-protests-prove-the-need-to-regulate-surveillance-tech

Just How Historic Is the Latest Covid-19 Science Meltdown?

Don't blame last week's journal retractions on the scary pace of the pandemic. "Once-in-a-lifetime” scandals like this seem to happen all the time.

source https://www.wired.com/story/just-how-historic-is-the-latest-covid-19-science-meltdown

5 Raspberry Pi Alternatives: Rock64, PocketBeagle, Banana Pi, Odroid

If you're working on a project that a Pi can't tackle, here are five single-board computers that power any DIY demand.

source https://www.wired.com/gallery/best-raspberry-pi-alternatives

IoT Security Is a Mess. Privacy 'Nutrition' Labels Could Help

Just like foods that display health information the package, researchers are exploring a tool that details how connected devices manage data.

source https://www.wired.com/story/iot-security-privacy-labels

These Bacteria Ate Their Way Through a Really Tricky Maze

Microbes are well known for working together in stressful environments. Scientists wanted to see how they would fare at a labyrinthine brain teaser.

source https://www.wired.com/story/these-bacteria-ate-their-way-through-a-really-tricky-maze

The Future of Xbox Isn't Just a Console

With the Xbox Series X on the horizon, Microsoft’s head of videogame hardware sees a future where consoles may no longer be front and center.

source https://www.wired.com/story/xbox-phil-spencer-consoles-gaming-future

To Adapt to Tech, We're Heading Into the Shadows

More and more innovation requires going into darker, more inappropriate, less ethical territory. Here's how to respond.

source https://www.wired.com/story/opinion-to-adapt-to-tech-were-heading-into-the-shadows

When Health Care Moves Online, Many Patients Are Left Behind

Amid the Covid-19 pandemic, more doctors are turning to telemedicine. That's a problem for tens of millions on the wrong side of the digital divide.

source https://www.wired.com/story/health-care-online-patients-left-behind

The Remarkable Stuff Scientists Get Done as They Work From Home

Researchers who usually rely on labs or command centers have been forced to work from laptops and closets—even as they control spacecraft millions of miles away.

source https://www.wired.com/story/the-remarkable-stuff-scientists-get-done-as-they-work-from-home

Who Discovered the First Vaccine?

As the world scrambles to develop an inoculation against Covid-19, it’s worth understanding the early, extraordinary history of the technique.

source https://www.wired.com/story/who-discovered-first-vaccine

The Pandemic Is Transforming the Rental Economy

The spread of Covid-19 has made people think twice about what they rent. But this hasn’t destroyed the rental marketplace—just changed it.

source https://www.wired.com/story/covid-19-rental-economy

The Science Behind Orchestras' Careful Covid Comeback

How readily can playing instruments transmit the virus? As researchers investigate, musical ensembles prepare for the show to go on.

source https://www.wired.com/story/the-science-behind-orchestras-careful-covid-comeback

The Webs of Covid-Related Caution Tape Across London

Seemingly overnight, the red-and-white-striped tape that suddenly became ubiquitous in the English capital.

source https://www.wired.com/story/london-coronavirus-tape

The Best Theragun Devices to Buy (and Which to Avoid)

Therabody's percussive therapy devices help soothe achy muscles. Here's our guide to their lineup.

source https://www.wired.com/gallery/best-theragun-percussive-therapy-devices

Black Hole Paradoxes Reveal a Link Between Energy and Entropy

What happens to a black hole as it decays? Investigating the possibilities has led researchers in recent years to major clues about quantum gravity.

source https://www.wired.com/story/black-hole-paradoxes-reveal-a-link-between-energy-and-entropy

How to Build a PC (2020): Hardware Suggestions, Instructions, and More

Building your own computer yourself is a lost art—one due for a revival. We go over the process, from hardware recommendations to instructions.

source https://www.wired.com/story/how-to-build-a-pc

Covid-19 Opens the Door for Gig Workers to Win Sick Pay

Uber, Lyft, and others have agreed to pay people who've missed work because of the virus. Seattle is on the cusp of making it law in that city.

source https://www.wired.com/story/covid-opens-door-gig-workers-sick-pay

How Covid-19 Contact Tracing Works on Your Phone

Developers are working on track-and-trace systems to keep infection levels low. The apps aren't here yet, but here's what they do—and how you can enable them.

source https://www.wired.com/story/covid-19-contact-tracing-apple-google

Archaeologists Discover the Largest, Oldest Maya Monument Yet

The structure, believed to have served as a ceremonial center 3,000 years ago, was discovered in Tabasco, Mexico.

source https://www.wired.com/story/archaeologists-discover-the-largest-oldest-maya-monument-yet

India Is Using More Solar Energy—but It Carries a Lead Risk

In rural areas, solar power is stored in lead batteries. If they aren't properly recycled, contamination can cause health problems.

source https://www.wired.com/story/india-is-using-more-solar-energy-but-it-carries-a-lead-risk

'Dune' Is One of the Most Influential Sci-Fi Books Ever

Originally published in 1965, Frank Herbert's classic novel has continued to help shape works from Star Wars to 'Game of Thrones'.

source https://www.wired.com/2020/06/geeks-guide-dune-influence

China and Iran Tried to Hack the Biden and Trump Campaigns

Plus: An iOS zero day, surveillance planes, and more of the week's top security news.

source https://www.wired.com/story/china-iran-hack-biden-trump-apple-bug-security-news

10 Best Electric Bikes (2020): Lightweight, Affordable, Folding, and More

We've tested ebikes for commuting, mountain biking, gravel, and even a few that can fold up. These are our favorites.

source https://www.wired.com/gallery/best-electric-bikes

Sony Xperia 1 II Review: A Surprise Hit

After years of punching below its weight, Sony finally found the formula for making an excellent phone. Too bad it costs $1200.

source https://www.wired.com/review/sony-xperia-1-ii

14 Best Weekend Deals: Tablets, Phones, Laptops, and More

Need a new laptop? Or an affordable phone? We've rounded up some sales that might help.

source https://www.wired.com/story/weekend-deals-june-6-2020

Signal App Tips: Get the Most Out of Your Private Messaging

The best end-to-end encrypted messaging app has a host of security features. Here are the ones you should care about.

source https://www.wired.com/story/signal-tips-private-messaging-encryption

Police Tactics Could Turn Protests Into Covid-19 Hot Spots

Sure, large crowds already carry a risk of transmission. It's just worse when you teargas people, make them cough on each other, and bus them to jail.

source https://www.wired.com/story/police-tactics-could-turn-protests-into-covid-19-hot-spots

Reddit's Cofounder Wants a Black Person to Take His Board Seat

Alexis Ohanian's resignation is among the most dramatic responses in the tech industry to the killing of George Floyd.

source https://www.wired.com/story/reddit-cofounder-wants-black-person-take-board-seat

Covid-19 Cases Were Already Rising Before the George Floyd Protests

The easing of stay-at-home orders and Memorial Day travel have led to spikes in some parts of the country. That’s bad news for what comes next.

source https://www.wired.com/story/covid-19-cases-were-already-rising-before-the-george-floyd-protests

As Businesses Reopen, Some Workers Fear Returning

Employees who decline to work amid the pandemic could lose both their paychecks and their unemployment benefits.

source https://www.wired.com/story/businesses-reopen-some-workers-fear-returning

A Better Jobs Report Belies America's Breadlines

While Friday’s report showed improved employment numbers, things could still get so much worse.

source https://www.wired.com/story/opinion-breadlines-remind-us-how-deep-a-depression-may-be

A Triple Threat Imperils Millions of People Across Africa

A “perfect storm” of ravenous locusts, flooding, and the Covid-19 pandemic threatens to create huge food shortages.

source https://www.wired.com/story/a-triple-threat-imperils-millions-of-people-across-africa

Specialized Turbo Vado SL Equipped Review: Summer Fun Ride

The company's lightweight commuter electric bike amazingly doesn’t feel like an ebike at all.

source https://www.wired.com/review/specialized-turbo-vado-sl-equipped

Can't Go Out and Protest? Here's How to Help From Home

Whether you're trying to maintain your social distance or just looking for other ways to speak up, here are some other ideas on how to contribute.

source https://www.wired.com/story/protests-covid-how-to-help

The Police's Military Tactics Turn Peaceful Protests Violent

Research shows that calm and negotiation, not excessive force, reduces damage. So why are officers still turning to tear gas?

source https://www.wired.com/story/the-polices-military-tactics-turn-peaceful-protests-violent

Mark Zuckerberg Is an Arbiter of Truth—Whether He Likes It or Not

Plus: Facebook in its early days, reasonable speech on the internet, and an overdue decision in Philadelphia.

source https://www.wired.com/story/mark-zuckerberg-is-an-arbiter-of-truth-whether-he-likes-it-or-not

Big Tech’s Role in Policing the Protests

This week, we discuss how tools developed in Silicon Valley are being used to erode the privacy and safety of citizens protesting police brutality.

source https://www.wired.com/story/gadget-lab-podcast-458

AI, AR, and the (Somewhat) Speculative Future of a Tech-Fueled FBI

A view of the Washington. DC, of tomorrow, excerpted from 'BURN-IN: A Novel of the Real Robotic Revolution.'

source https://www.wired.com/story/ai-ar-somewhat-speculative-future-tech-fueled-fbi

Weed Sales on the Dark Web Sales Surged Early in the Pandemic

Research shows that as Covid-19 lockdowns spread people turned to internet dealers for their pot fix.

source https://www.wired.com/story/dark-web-cannabis-sales-surged-pandemic

The Best Samsung Galaxy S20 Deals (and Which Model to Pick)

Should you buy Samsung’s Galaxy S20, S20 Plus, or S20 Ultra? Here's what you need to know before you shell out a grand.

source https://www.wired.com/story/samsung-galaxy-s20-deals

Schools Turn to Surveillance Tech to Prevent Covid-19 Spread

Administrators hope tracking beacons will identify where students congregate and who should be isolated if someone contracts the coronavirus.

source https://www.wired.com/story/schools-surveillance-tech-prevent-covid-19-spread

The Role of Fantasy in Times of Radical Unrest

Protest is not solely about fighting for a new world—it is about the ability to envision the right one. This time, it will take a sustained belief in black futures.

source https://www.wired.com/story/protest-unrest-role-of-fantasy

Curfews Halt Transit Services—and Leave Riders Stranded

The suspension of services like Lyft, Uber, and Citi Bike has left protesters and essential workers scrambling for a way to get home.

source https://www.wired.com/story/protest-curfews-ride-share

Games Don't Do Enough to Combat Toxicity at Launch

Riot Games has cutting-edge moderation tools at its disposal. Few of them are present in Valorant, which launched this week.

source https://www.wired.com/story/videogames-anti-toxicity-valorant-launch

Best Pet Supplies and Tips for Kittens and Puppies (2020)

Shelters across the country are emptying as people adopt pets while stuck at home. We've rounded up the gear you'll need for a smooth transition.

source https://www.wired.com/story/best-pet-supplies-and-tips-for-kittens-and-puppies

Tesla’s Cybertruck Could Be Ripped, Mean, and Super Green

Elon Musk has a chance to create the world's first “circular car.”

source https://www.wired.com/story/opinion-teslas-cybertruck-could-be-ripped-mean-and-super-green

A Drop in Commercial Flights Is Bad for Hurricane Forecasts

Passenger jets and cruise ships normally gather key weather data. But full docks and empty skies make it hard to predict the details of incoming storms.

source https://www.wired.com/story/a-drop-in-commercial-flights-is-bad-for-hurricane-forecasts

The World Was Primed for Protest Conspiracy Theories

For some, it's a sort of mental self-preservation, for others it’s a concerted strategy to win the former category over to their way of thinking.

source https://www.wired.com/story/protest-conspiracy-theories

How to Make Your Virtual Jam Session Sound—and Look—Good

You know those videos of musicians rocking out from their living rooms, laid out in a grid? Here's how they're made.

source https://www.wired.com/story/zoom-music-video-coronavirus-tips

How to Avoid Spreading Misinformation About the Protests

There isn't always time, during a crisis, to be reflective in the face of harmful information. Here's a useful rule of thumb.

source https://www.wired.com/story/how-to-avoid-spreading-misinformation-about-the-protests

All This Chaos Might Be Giving You 'Crisis Fatigue'

Your body is well adapted to handle temporary stresses, but is overwhelmed by the constant, unrelenting pressures of this horrible year.

source https://www.wired.com/story/crisis-fatigue

Curfews Can Quell Violence—but Also Spark More Protests

Researchers say the stay-home orders can encourage police abuse and pit residents against law enforcement.

source https://www.wired.com/story/curfews-quell-violence-spark-more-protests

Zoom's End-to-End Encryption Will Be for Paying Customers Only

The video conferencing company says it wants to be able to work with law enforcement to catch bad actors on its platform.

source https://www.wired.com/story/zoom-end-to-end-encryption-paid-accounts

How To Delete Your Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok

Actually deleting your social media accounts is more complicated than it looks.

source https://www.wired.com/story/how-to-delete-your-facebook-instagram-twitter-snapchat

Major Hydroxychloroquine Trial Shows No Prevention Benefits

A large, double-blind study examined 821 people who had been exposed to the virus. The drug was no better at stopping Covid-19 infection than a placebo.

source https://www.wired.com/story/major-hydroxychloroquine-trial-shows-no-prevention-benefits

16 Health Workers Talk About Their Battles With the Pandemic

WIRED’s video team reached out to doctors, physician assistants, and paramedics, and asked them about their experiences treating Covid-19 patients.

source https://www.wired.com/story/16-health-workers-talk-about-their-battles-with-the-pandemic

Everything You Need to Know Before Buying a Gaming PC

Pre-built gaming computers are more affordable and more powerful than ever. Before you shell out for one, here's some advice.

source https://www.wired.com/story/gaming-pc-buying-tips

Mark Zuckerberg Believes Only in Mark Zuckerberg

Why is he abetting Trump while civil rights leaders and his own employees rebuke him? It's about dominance.

source https://www.wired.com/story/mark-zuckerberg-believes-only-in-mark-zuckerberg

Protest Photography Safety Tips: Dos and Don'ts, How to Blur Faces, Essential Gear

Here's our guide to taking photos safely at a protest, what not to do, what gear to bring, and how to remove location data and blur faces before uploading to social media.

source https://www.wired.com/story/how-to-take-photos-at-protests

On Instagram, Black Squares Overtook Activist Hashtags

Early Tuesday users on social media began posting black boxes with hashtags meant to support Black Lives Matter—they ended up drowning out years of resources.

source https://www.wired.com/story/instagram-black-squares-overtook-activist-hashtags

The Pentagon's Hand-Me-Downs Helped Militarize Police. Here's How

Over several decades, the 1033 program has shipped over $7.4 billion of Defense Department property to more than 8,000 law enforcement agencies.

source https://www.wired.com/story/pentagon-hand-me-downs-militarize-police-1033-program

How to Protest Safely: What to Bring, What to Do, and What to Avoid

If you're planning on hitting the streets, this guide may be of some assistance.

source https://www.wired.com/story/how-to-protest-safely-gear-tips

Protests Renew Scrutiny of Tech's Ties to Law Enforcement

Amazon executives tweeted support for protesters. But the company sells a surveillance tool to police that studies say misidentifies darker skinned people.

source https://www.wired.com/story/protests-renew-scrutiny-tech-ties-law-enforcement

‘Non-Lethal’ Anti-Protest Weapons Can Cause Serious Harm

Rubber bullets and tear gas are billed as relatively safe. They're anything but.

source https://www.wired.com/story/tear-gas-rubber-bullets-nonlethal-harm-protests

Trump's Antifa Obsession Is an Unconstitutional Distraction

The president says the US will designate antifa a terrorist organization. Can he do that? Probably not.

source https://www.wired.com/story/trump-antifa

Facebook 'Manage Activity' Is a Long Overdue Privacy Feature

The new “Manage Activity” feature will let you archive and bulk delete posts for the first time.

source https://www.wired.com/story/facebook-manage-activity-privacy-settings

A Reddit Community Has Become a Memorial for Covid-19 Victims

Amid a pandemic, users have turned the subreddit r/LastImages into a digital shrine to remember loved ones lost to the disease.

source https://www.wired.com/story/a-reddit-community-has-become-a-memorial-for-covid-19-victims

How to Sync and Access Your Data Across Devices (2020)

Here's how to open all your files—so you can switch between your phone and laptop seamlessly.

source https://www.wired.com/story/how-to-sync-your-data-everywhere

The WIRED Coronavirus Glossary

Too many Covid-19 buzzwords? Here’s what they all mean.

source https://www.wired.com/story/coronavirus-glossary

Rigorous Hand-Washing Will Be Part of Covid-19's New Normal

The simplest hygiene tasks are the toughest to maintain—take it from the health care experts who have advice about how to make the habit stick.

source https://www.wired.com/story/rigorous-hand-washing-will-be-part-of-covid-19s-new-normal

More Students Are ‘Stacking’ Credentials en Route to a Degree

With record numbers of Americans jobless, some are turning to nontraditional programs that offer rewards for completing short courses on specific skills.

source https://www.wired.com/story/students-stacking-credentials-route-degree

In Minneapolis, Neighbors Are Mobilizing—Offline

Worried about infiltration from extremist groups or police surveillance, residents are turning to pre-internet tactics to help protect homes and local stores.

source https://www.wired.com/story/in-minneapolis-neighbors-are-mobilizing-offline

Facebook Employees Take the Rare Step to Call Out Mark Zuckerberg

Some workers at the social media giant are publicly criticizing decisions not to remove or flag misleading posts by President Trump.

source https://www.wired.com/story/facebook-employees-rare-step-call-out-mark-zuckerberg

Tech Companies Denounce Racism. Will Silicon Valley Change?

The killing of George Floyd elicited corporate outrage, and some donations. But well-intentioned rhetoric has not always been followed by meaningful action.

source https://www.wired.com/story/tech-companies-denounce-racism-will-silicon-valley-change

Artist Rachel Cabitt Is Trapped In a Quarantine Horror Film

Yes, the current experience is full of terror. But there's room for catharsis, too.

source https://www.wired.com/story/shuttered-rachel-cabitt-quarantine-horror-film

Meet ACE2, the Enzyme at the Center of the Covid-19 Mystery

Since January, scientists have published more than 700 studies to figure out the molecule’s link to risk for the disease—and to find possible treatments.

source https://www.wired.com/story/meet-ace2-the-enzyme-at-the-center-of-the-covid-19-mystery

One Free Press Coalition Spotlights Journalists Under Attack - June 2020

This month's list features four reporters sentenced to death in Yemen, among other news professionals whose civil rights are being threatened.

source https://www.wired.com/story/one-free-press-coalition-spotlights-journalists-under-attack-june-2020

Polar Grit X Review: Great Training Coach, Poor Backcountry Companion

The Grit X's FuelWise reminders will prevent your body from crashing, but the lack of onboard maps make this a difficult tracker to recommend for the backcountry.

source https://www.wired.com/review/polar-grit-x

An Onslaught of Crises Has Created a Modern Paradox

Never before have humans lived more comfortably. And yet today we're overwhelmed by crises, be it inequality or economic collapse or Covid, all exacerbating one another.

source https://www.wired.com/story/covid-crisis-modern-paradox

Cities in Poorer Countries Are at Risk as Covid-19 Spreads

Hot spots are emerging in urban areas across Africa,  Asia, and Latin America, where social distancing is challenging and missing work can mean not eating.

source https://www.wired.com/story/cities-poorer-countries-risk-covid-19-spreads

The New Intimacy, Brought to You by Covid-19

Don’t touch, but keep in touch! The pandemic has us living in an alternate corporeality.

source https://www.wired.com/story/the-new-intimacy-brought-to-you-by-covid-19

This Bot Hunts Software Bugs for the Pentagon

Mayhem emerged from a 2016 government-sponsored contest at a Las Vegas casino hotel. Now it's used by the military—and Netflix.

source https://www.wired.com/story/bot-hunts-software-bugs-pentagon