WIRED25 Day 3: Look at Problems in a New Way

Guests like Anthony Fauci, Lisa Piccirillo, Patrice Peck, and Audrey Tang discussed how to puzzle through seemingly intractable situations.

source https://www.wired.com/story/wired25-day3-summary

Taiwan’s Digital Minister Knows How to Crush Covid-19: Trust

On Day 3 of WIRED25, Audrey Tang explains how the Asian nation used open data and transparent governance to empower its citizens to code their own way out of a pandemic.

source https://www.wired.com/story/wired25-day3-audrey-tang-taiwan

The Debate Was a Disaster. But Hey, Climate Change Came Up

The good news: The presidential debate addressed global warming. The bad news: Trump dodged it, especially when it came to wildfires.

source https://www.wired.com/story/the-debate-was-a-disaster-but-hey-climate-change-came-up

Anthony Fauci Has Some Very Good Reasons to Be Optimistic

During Day 3 of WIRED25, the public health rock star emphasized the importance of masks, distancing, handwashing … and a positive outlook.

source https://www.wired.com/story/wired25-day3-anthony-fauci

These Robots Use AI to Learn How to Clean Your House

At Toyota, researchers are experimenting with prototypes that swoop from the ceiling to take care of chores with the help of machine learning.

source https://www.wired.com/story/robots-use-ai-learn-clean-your-house

The Coronavirus Dashboard Creator Has a New Target: Elections

On Day 2 of WIRED25, coder Avi Schiffmann talks about his plans for a site that aggregates candidates' positions—in a way users can understand.

source https://www.wired.com/story/wired25-day3-avi-shiffmann-coronavirus-dashboard

Trump Pushed 11 False Claims About Voting in 8 Minutes During the Debate

The president's assault on electoral integrity threatens to undermine the democratic process. We unpack each falsehood, mischaracterization, and lie.

source https://www.wired.com/story/trump-mail-vote-debate-lies

Google Pixel 5 and Pixel 4A 5G: Price, Specs, Release Date

Unlike competitors' more experimental phones, Google's new flagship doesn’t have a lot of bells and whistles—but it's more affordable than its predecessor. It's joined by an even cheaper Pixel 4A 5G.

source https://www.wired.com/story/google-pixel-5-pixel-4a-5g

Everything Google Announced at Its Pixel Event

The company's hardware launches aren’t as big as Apple’s—and we’re okay with that.

source https://www.wired.com/story/everything-google-announced-september-30-event

Trump and the Limits of Content Moderation

The president’s televised encouragement of white supremacy and political violence was a reminder that social media didn’t create these problems.

source https://www.wired.com/story/trump-first-debate-2020-limits-content-moderation

How to Watch WIRED25 2020

Join us for this year's final installment of WIRED25, and check out the replay of our past sessions.

source https://www.wired.com/story/how-to-watch-wired25-2020

The Best Trick in 'Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 1 + 2'? Double Nostalgia

The new remaster of the classic games series recalls both the late-1990s—and the carefree days before Covid-19 lockdowns.

source https://www.wired.com/story/tony-hawks-pro-skater-1-2

Best Apple Watch (2020): Which Models to Buy, or Avoid

There are now three versions of Apple's popular fitness smartwatch. Here's our guide to them all.

source https://www.wired.com/gallery/best-apple-watch

Facebook Merges DMs for Instagram and Messenger

A new update allows for cross-platform messaging for the first time within the Facebook family of apps.

source https://www.wired.com/story/facebook-merges-instagram-messenger-direct-messages

How to Watch Google's Pixel Event Today—and What to Expect

There are two new phones coming, a new Nest smart speaker, and a Chromecast with a TV remote.

source https://www.wired.com/story/how-to-watch-google-pixel-2020-event

In an Odd Twist, Cleaner Air in China May Mean a Warmer Earth

Coal plant upgrades led to a dramatic reduction in sulfur dioxide emissions. But those particles also help reflect solar heat away from the planet.

source https://www.wired.com/story/in-an-odd-twist-cleaner-air-in-china-may-mean-a-warmer-earth

The West’s Infernos Are Melting Our Sense of How Fire Works

42,000-foot plumes of ash. 143-mph firenadoes. 1,500-degree heat. These wildfires are a new kind of hell on earth, and scientists are racing to learn its rules.

source https://www.wired.com/story/west-coast-california-wildfire-infernos

Trump-Biden Debate Twitter Recap: Politics Is a Metaverse

The first 2020 presidential debate was a series of interruptions and half-thoughts—like the internet IRL.

source https://www.wired.com/story/trump-biden-debate-recap-twitter-politics-metaverse

How to Host a Virtual Watch Party

Still sheltering in place? Good. Here’s how to watch movies with friends, even when you’re apart.

source https://www.wired.com/story/how-to-host-a-virtual-watch-party

How to Win Any Debate

Arguing, especially with strangers on the internet, is generally a bad idea—but if you have to, here's how to win.

source https://www.wired.com/story/how-to-win-any-debate

Trump’s FCC Is Using Junk Data to Downplay Broadband Woes

Tens of millions of Americans have either cripplingly slow or no internet at all. And the FCC's shameful practices are making a bad situation worse.

source https://www.wired.com/story/opinion-trumps-fcc-is-using-junk-data-to-downplay-broadband-woes

'Where Law Ends' Review: How the Mueller Investigation Fell Flat

Prosecutor Andrew Weissmann's Where Law Ends doesn't fill the hole at the center of the Trump-Russia probe, but does help explain why it's there.

source https://www.wired.com/story/where-law-ends-mueller-report-andrew-weissmann

13 Books You Need to Read This Fall

New movies are few; new TV is fast diminishing. Here are the books we think you should pick up instead.

source https://www.wired.com/story/fall-2020-reading-list

Covid-19 Symptoms (Coronavirus): What to Do If You Might Have It

Stay calm. Here's our guide to what symptoms you should look out for, and how to respond if you've been exposed.

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

Fish Form Social Networks—and They're Actually Good

New models of coral reefs show how fish species communicate with one another. The findings may well help save these threatened ecosystems.

source https://www.wired.com/story/fish-form-social-networks-and-theyre-actually-good

America Can Still Achieve Its Techno-Utopian Dream

The tools for curbing Silicon Valley’s outsize power and restoring hope in tech are already available and, in some cases, have been for hundreds of years.

source https://www.wired.com/story/america-can-still-achieve-its-techno-utopian-dream

During Covid, Eating Disorder Patients Turn to Apps

Anorexia, bulimia, and binge eating patients are facing novel challenges as in-person care is on hold. Can tech tools fill in the treatment gaps?

source https://www.wired.com/story/during-covid-eating-disorder-patients-turn-to-apps

Your Photos Are Irreplaceable. Get Them Off Your Phone

When's the last time you backed up your photos? Would you be upset if you lost them? You see where we're going here, right?

source https://www.wired.com/story/phone-mobile-photos-backup-tips

The Cyber-Avengers Protecting Hospitals From Ransomware

As medical facilities strain amid the pandemic, they’re especially vulnerable to cyberattacks. A global coalition of volunteer experts has stepped into the breach.

source https://www.wired.com/story/cyber-avengers-protecting-hospitals-ransomware

The National Guard’s Fire-Mapping Drones Get an AI Upgrade

Algorithms that quickly track the movement of wildfires could help firefighters‚ but the tech could also be put to non-humanitarian use.

source https://www.wired.com/story/national-guards-fire-mapping-drones-get-ai-upgrade

A Ransomware Attack Has Struck a Major US Hospital Chain

“All computers are completely shut down,” one Universal Health Services employee told WIRED.

source https://www.wired.com/story/universal-health-services-ransomware-attack

How to Watch the First 2020 Presidential Debate

Donald Trump and Joe Biden meet for the first time on a debate stage tonight in Cleveland.

source https://www.wired.com/story/how-to-watch-the-first-2020-presidential-debate

Audeze LCD-1 Review: The Best Headphones Under $500

Missing live music? These corded, lightweight planar magnetic cans give you the next best thing.

source https://www.wired.com/review/audeze-lcd-1

In 'Hades,' the Underworld Is Your Playground

It's easy to spend hours dashing and slashing your way through this roguelite dungeon crawler.

source https://www.wired.com/story/hades-review

Could the National HIV Strategy Help Guide the Covid Fight?

The Trump administration hasn't created a comprehensive plan for battling the pandemic. Some researchers propose borrowing one from the past.

source https://www.wired.com/story/could-the-national-hiv-strategy-help-guide-the-covid-fight

Peak Newsletter? That Was 80 Years Ago

In the 1940s, journalists fled traditional news outlets to write directly for subscribers. What happened next may be a warning.

source https://www.wired.com/story/peak-newsletter-that-was-80-years-ago

Testing Won’t Save Us From Covid-19

Many experts are convinced that fast and easy screening can stop the virus. But that theory fails to account for the messiness of real life.

source https://www.wired.com/story/testing-wont-save-us-from-covid-19

The Election Threats That Keep US Intelligence Up at Night

Government officials have increasingly sounded alarms on the risks of foreign interference and disinformation campaigns leading up to—and after—November 3.

source https://www.wired.com/story/election-threats-fbi-cisa-disinformation-hack-leak

Get WIRED: Nextdoor’s CEO on Curtailing Racial Profiling

On this week’s podcast, Sarah Friar talks to us about how the hyperlocal social network is getting people to slow down and think about what they’re posting.

source https://www.wired.com/story/get-wired-podcast-10-sarah-friar-nextdoor

A School Ran a Simulation of the Pandemic—Before the Pandemic

A Florida middle school has staged mock outbreaks for years to teach science and civics. Last December’s lesson was an uncanny harbinger of Covid-19.

source https://www.wired.com/story/a-school-ran-a-simulation-of-the-pandemic-before-the-pandemic

Scientists May Have Found a Material for Building on Mars

Using simple chemistry, the organic polymer chitin can be transformed into a viable substance for creating tools and habitats on the Red Planet.

source https://www.wired.com/story/scientists-may-have-found-a-material-for-building-on-mars

The Best Smart Light Bulbs (2020): Ambient Lighting, Kits, Color, and More

They're the easiest way to start building a smarter home. From Ikea and Philips Hue kits to ambient lighting, here are our favorites.

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

TCL 6-Series TV Review (2020): It's Our Favorite TV, Again

Mini-LED backlighting, clever cable management, and built-in Roku are just a few of its standout features.

source https://www.wired.com/review/tcl-6-series-2020

Is Dark Matter Just Black Holes Made During the Big Bang?

Stephen Hawking once proposed that unseen “primordial” black holes might be the hidden dark matter. A series of new studies shows how it can work.

source https://www.wired.com/story/is-dark-matter-just-black-holes-made-during-the-big-bang

The Android 11 Privacy and Security Features You Should Know

Many of the updates to Google's mobile OS are behind the scenes—but they can help you control your app permissions and keep your data safe.

source https://www.wired.com/story/android-11-privacy-and-security-features

Windows XP Source Code Got Leaked All Over the Internet

Plus: A cruel phishing test, ransomware hits Russia, and more of the week's top security news.

source https://www.wired.com/story/windows-xp-source-code-leak-ransomware-phishing

The 9 Best Travel Bags: Carry-On Luggage, Duffel, Budget (2020)

A rolling carry-on is perfect for more than just flying. Whether going by air, road, or rail, here is our favorite luggage.

source https://www.wired.com/gallery/best-travel-bags-carry-on-luggage

Some Cities Are Plotting a ‘Green Recovery’ After Covid-19

Cities like Los Angeles, Seattle, and New Orleans are aiming to tackle another, longer-term emergency: the climate crisis.

source https://www.wired.com/story/some-cities-are-plotting-a-green-recovery-after-covid-19

20 Best Weekend Deals: Laptops, Smart Speakers, and More

Snag discounts on the MacBook Air, Echo Dot, OnePlus 8, and other tech to keep you distracted indoors as the weather starts to cool.

source https://www.wired.com/story/weekend-deals-sept-26-2020

Here's How You Can 'See' Molecules—on a Whole 'Nother Planet

Scientists picked up signs of phosphene on Venus by using a technique called rotational spectroscopy. It works like this.

source https://www.wired.com/story/heres-how-you-can-see-molecules-on-a-whole-nother-planet

Activists at Amazon Say Its Climate Efforts Still Fall Short

One year after organizing a walkout, employees are calling for a more ambitious environmental agenda.

source https://www.wired.com/story/amazon-activists-climate-change-efforts-fall-short

More Covid Vaccines in Phase III, New Risk Calculators, and More

Catch up on the most important coronavirus updates from this week.

source https://www.wired.com/story/more-covid-vaccines-in-phase-iii-new-risk-calculators-and-more

'Bill & Ted Face the Music' Strikes the Perfect Note

The first Bill & Ted movie in 30 years is a fitting tribute to the series that came before.

source https://www.wired.com/2020/09/geeks-guide-bill-and-ted

The Best Chrome Extensions to Prevent Creepy Web Tracking

Ad trackers follow you everywhere online—but it doesn’t have to be that way.

source https://www.wired.com/story/the-best-chrome-extensions-to-prevent-creepy-web-tracking

PS5 Games Revealed (With Trailers): Every Game Sony Has Announced

From a new Spider-Man game to 'Horizon: Forbidden West', here are the titles you can expect for the next-gen console.

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

The Business of the Internet Is Stuck in Trump's Swamp

Plus: Silicon Valley’s reaction to Snowden, journalists’ relationships with their subjects, and an unpleasant surprise for hikers.

source https://www.wired.com/story/plaintext-the-business-of-the-internet-is-stuck-in-trumps-swamp

Twitter’s Sexual Fascination With a Not-Sexual Octopus Movie

This week, Netflix's My Octopus Teacher got a reputation for being a very different movie than it is. Here's why.

source https://www.wired.com/story/my-octopus-teacher-not-sexy

Sony A8H 4K OLED Review: A Love Letter to the Home Theater

The company's latest TV is a love letter to the home theater, a display defined by its otherworldly vibrance.

source https://www.wired.com/review/sony-a8h-4k-oled

The Messy Feud Over Who Controls TikTok

This week, we discuss how the fight over the app might shape US tech policy and US-China relations for years to come.

source https://www.wired.com/story/gadget-lab-podcast-474

How Teachers Can Foster Community in Online Classrooms

Remote learning doesn't have to mean distracted, disconnected students. Here's what you can do to build calm and trust.

source https://www.wired.com/story/build-community-teaching-online-classes

Why Is It So Hard to Study Covid-Related Smell Loss?

Patients have long reported the sudden inability to smell. But restrictions on in-person exams are complicating efforts to figure out what's going on.

source https://www.wired.com/story/why-is-it-so-hard-to-study-covid-related-smell-loss

The Ring Always Home Cam Flies Around Inside Your House

Look at this freaking drone.

source https://www.wired.com/story/ring-always-home-cam

Federal Executions During Covid-19 Put Innocent Lives at Risk

The current wave of executions is increasing the likelihood that lawyers, observers, and correctional staff could be infected.

source https://www.wired.com/story/federal-executions-covid-19

Facebook Busts Russian Disinfo Networks as US Election Looms

The campaigns primarily targeted countries outside the US. But the same mechanisms could be used in “hack and leak” operations like those that roiled the 2016 campaign.

source https://www.wired.com/story/facebook-russia-fancy-bear-ira-misinformation

Everything Amazon Just Announced—Like That Crazy Home Drone

The company debuted a gaggle of new stuff, including several round Echos and a cloud gaming service.

source https://www.wired.com/story/amazon-sept-2020-event

Alexa Now Has Its Own Questions for You

A new feature from Amazon allows the intelligent assistant to ask users to clarify requests, such as “Dim the lights.”

source https://www.wired.com/story/alexa-own-questions-you

How the Pandemic Transformed This Songbird’s Call

When the San Francisco Bay Area locked down, urban noise levels plummeted. In response, the white-crowned sparrow changed its tune.

source https://www.wired.com/story/how-the-pandemic-transformed-this-songbirds-call

Go Ahead, Try to Sneak Bad Words Past AI Filters—for Research

A new Facebook project pits humans against algorithms, to expose the systems' weaknesses and help make them better.

source https://www.wired.com/story/try-sneak-bad-words-ai-filters-research

How Twitter Survived Its Biggest Hack—and Plans to Stop the Next One

On July 15, Twitter melted down. On Election Day, that's not an option.

source https://www.wired.com/story/inside-twitter-hack-election-plan

A Trump-Biden Debate Without Climate Change Is Inexcusable

The West is on fire, the Gulf Coast is under water, and voters want candidates to talk about the environment.

source https://www.wired.com/story/trump-biden-debate-without-climate-change-inexcusable

Lawmakers Demand Scrutiny of Racial Bias in Health Algorithms

Four congressmembers say formulas that include race as a factor can hurt Black Americans' access to care.

source https://www.wired.com/story/lawmakers-demand-scrutiny-racial-bias-health-algorithms

The 8 Best Projectors (2020): Short Throw, Portable, Low Latency, and More

Whether you want a portable presenter or a theater-quality behemoth, our picks will help you upgrade your at-home movie nights.

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

A Tip From a Kid Helped Uncover a Slew of Scam Apps

After a girl reported a suspicious TikTok profile, researchers detected aggressive adware in apps that had been downloaded 2.4 million times.

source https://www.wired.com/story/a-tip-from-a-kid-helped-uncover-a-slew-of-scam-apps

Can a Genetically Modified Bug Combat a Global Farm Plague?

Biotech company Oxitec has created a caterpillar with self-destructing eggs in an attempt to curb agricultural damage. But will other pests simply move in?

source https://www.wired.com/story/can-a-genetically-modified-bug-combat-a-global-farm-plague

Motorola One 5G Review: It Has Battery for Days

Forget plugging in every night. This phone lasts more than 48 hours on a charge.

source https://www.wired.com/review/motorola-one-5g

We Need to Talk About Talking About QAnon

Describing and debunking the phenomenon is not enough. We need to explain why and how it came to be.

source https://www.wired.com/story/we-need-to-talk-about-talking-about-qanon

WIRED 25 Day 2: How to Build a More Resilient World

Guests like Nextdoor CEO Sarah Friar, hacker Matt Mitchell, and journalist Maria Ressa talk about shifting power dynamics—and changing who's in control.

source https://www.wired.com/story/wired-25-day-2-how-build-more-resilient-world

California Plans to Ban Sales of Gas-Powered Cars by 2035

Governor Gavin Newsom outlines an ambitious plan for the nation's largest state to rely exclusively on electric-powered passenger cars and trucks.

source https://www.wired.com/story/california-plans-ban-sales-gas-powered-cars-2035

CryptoHarlem’s Founder Warns Against ‘Digital Stop and Frisk'

On Day 2 of WIRED’s virtual conference, hacker Matt Mitchell cautions that law enforcement routinely trawls social media to surveil protestors.

source https://www.wired.com/story/cryptoharlem-matt-mitchell-digital-stop-and-frisk

Arlan Hamilton and Katie Rae Say Tech Can Do Well—and Do Good

At the WIRED25 event, the two investors say traditional venture capital misses opportunities because it is a monoculture.

source https://www.wired.com/story/arlan-hamilton-katie-rae-tech-do-well-do-good

Maria Ressa Says Disinformation Is More Insidious Than We Think

At our virtual conference, the journalist and CEO of Rappler explained how the goal isn't just to spread lies, but to blur our sense of true and false.

source https://www.wired.com/story/maria-ressa-disinformation-more-insidious-than-we-think

CEO Sarah Friar Describes How Nextdoor Is Curbing Racism

The neighborhood-focused social network leans on local human moderators as well as AI, she explained at WIRED's virtual W25 conference.

source https://www.wired.com/story/ceo-sarah-friar-describes-nextdoor-curbing-racism

Meet Curly, the Curling Robot That Beats the Pros

Curling is one of the world's most precise sports. An ice-going, stone-throwing robot just mastered it.

source https://www.wired.com/story/meet-curly-the-curling-robot-that-beats-the-pros

The 15 TV Shows You Need to Binge This Fall

The state of Fall TV is … iffy. Here are a few new shows—and some timeless classics—to help you fill the season.

source https://www.wired.com/story/fall-2020-tv-watching-guide

The Cool Physics of a Supersonic Baseball

For one thing, let's build a model of air drag and how it affects the ball differently when it's traveling faster and slower than the speed of sound.

source https://www.wired.com/story/cool-physics-supersonic-baseball

Why Netflix Keeps Canceling Shows After Just 2 Seasons

Last month, Altered Carbon joined Sense8, The OA, and Luke Cage in getting the ax. Fans protested, but for the streaming service, it's all about data.

source https://www.wired.com/story/why-netflix-keeps-canceling-shows-after-just-2-seasons

Elon Musk Promises a $25,000 Tesla in 3 Years—Again

Reducing the cost of electric vehicles is all about a cheaper battery. Tesla outlined a plan that includes making more of the components itself.

source https://www.wired.com/story/elon-musk-promises-25000-tesla-3-years-again

Where Was the Battery at Tesla’s Battery Day?

Musk made some big promises at Tesla’s highly anticipated Battery Day. But a prototype never made an appearance, and it was unclear what Tesla had actually achieved.

source https://www.wired.com/story/where-was-the-battery-at-teslas-battery-day

179 Arrested in Massive Global Dark Web Takedown

Operation Disruptor is an unprecedented international law enforcement effort, stemming from last year’s seizure of a popular underground bazaar called Wall Street Market.

source https://www.wired.com/story/operation-disruptor-179-arrested-global-dark-web-takedown

Covid-19 Support Groups Are a Potential Research Goldmine

Social media groups are rife with peril, but for people coping with the virus—and those trying to treat it—they’re a valuable resource.

source https://www.wired.com/story/covid-19-support-groups-data

11 Best Fitness Trackers (and Fitness Watches) for 2020

Do you need an activity tracker for skiing, or for counting your steps around the backyard? We've found the best fitness watches and trackers for everybody.

source https://www.wired.com/gallery/best-fitness-tracker

To Clean Up Comments, Let AI Tell Users Their Words Are Trash

It won’t solve everything, but a new study suggests real-time automated feedback could help make the internet a less toxic place.

source https://www.wired.com/story/comments-section-clean-up-let-ai-tell-users-words-trash

To Make Fairer AI, Physicists Peer Inside Its Black Box

After repurposing facial recognition and deepfake tech to study galaxies and the Higgs boson, physicists think they can help shape the responsible use of AI.

source https://www.wired.com/story/to-make-fairer-ai-physicists-peer-inside-its-black-box

How to Preorder the Xbox Series X and Series S: Pricing, Release Date, and More

Preorders for Microsoft's next-gen consoles go live today. We've compiled the best places you can snag one—and if you should.

source https://www.wired.com/story/xbox-series-x-series-s-deals

Covid-19 Vaccines Could End Up With Bias Built Right In

Some of the leading candidates might work better for the richest people in the world, simply on account of how they're made.

source https://www.wired.com/story/covid-19-vaccines-could-end-up-with-bias-built-right-in

Instagram's Founders Explain Their Covid-Charting Obsession

In their first post-Facebook project, Kevin Systrom and Mike Krieger built rt.live, which state officials can use to plan their reopening.

source https://www.wired.com/story/instagrams-founders-explain-their-covid-charting-obsession

Does a Millipede Have a Penis? Well ... Define 'Penis'

From gonopods to pedipalps, nature has a lot of ways to get gametes where they need to go.

source https://www.wired.com/story/does-spider-have-penis-well-define-penis

Loose Ends: A Literary Supercut of Sci-Fi Last Sentences

Miles grinned sleepily, puddled down in his uniform. “Welcome to the beginning.”

source https://www.wired.com/story/loose-ends-tom-comitta

What Teaching Online Classes Taught Me About Remote Learning

After teaching for 25 years, yes, moving my classes online has been weird. But then I found moments of gratitude.

source https://www.wired.com/story/teaching-online-classes-tips-lessons

Build Your Own Raspberry Pi Home Network Content Filter

Boost both your digital security and your web browsing speed with an inexpensive, DIY packet inspector.

source https://www.wired.com/story/diy-raspberry-pi-home-network-content-filter

Six-Word Sci-Fi: A Story Set in a World Without Paper

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-world-without-paper

QAnon Is Like a Game—a Most Dangerous Game

The conspiracy theory has the best attributes of a multiplatform game, except that it can cause harm in the real world.

source https://www.wired.com/story/qanon-most-dangerous-multiplatform-game

How to Thwart Facial Recognition and Other Surveillance

Whether you’re protesting or just stepping out for a boba, you deserve some algorithm-free alone time.

source https://www.wired.com/story/how-to-thwart-facial-recognition-other-surveillance

Get Lost With a Signal-Blocking Smartphone Pouch

It’s not hard for bad actors to track or hack your phone. But put it inside a Faraday pouch and you can drop off the digital map.

source https://www.wired.com/story/silent-pocket-signal-blocking-smartphone-pouch

A YouTube Radio Archivist Blasts the Past Into the Present

I went looking for the broadcasts of my coming-of-age in the early '90s. What I discovered instead was Jean-Gabriel Prats' trove of audio ephemera.

source https://www.wired.com/story/youtube-radio-archivist-majestik-magic

Angry Nerd: If You're Dating Online in a Pandemic, Ghost or Be Ghosted

Don't want to see me again? Please, spare me the proper breakup. It's more suitable to our contactless existence.

source https://www.wired.com/story/angry-nerd-online-dating-pandemic-ghosting

The Power and Paradox of Bad Software

The software industry makes amazing tools for itself, while doctors and scientists are stuck with old code. Tech needs to quit hacking and start listening.

source https://www.wired.com/story/power-paradox-bad-software

The Fantasy of Pokémon Go Is More Important Than Ever

Players of the alternate-reality game are still at it. They also seem, in these crazy days, to exhibit well-being.

source https://www.wired.com/story/fantasy-pokemon-go-more-important-than-ever

Trump's TikTok Deal Is Still an Unresolved Mess

The president’s ban on WeChat has also hit a roadblock.

source https://www.wired.com/story/trump-tiktok-deal-still-unresolved-mess

How to Watch Tesla’s Battery Day Event—and What to Expect

After months of delays, Tesla’s much-hyped Battery Day is finally upon us. Here’s what the company might reveal.

source https://www.wired.com/story/how-to-watch-teslas-battery-day-event-and-what-to-expect

Trump’s TikTok Farce Ignores the Lessons of the Red Scare

The president’s claims that the app is a national security threat don’t top the First Amendment.

source https://www.wired.com/story/opinion-with-tiktok-trump-ignores-the-lessons-of-the-red-scare

'Raised By Wolves' Questions Whether Humanity Can Be Saved

Ridley Scott’s new HBO Max show struggles to determine if people and society are doomed.

source https://www.wired.com/story/raised-by-wolves-review

A New Tool Detects Counterfeit Whiskey—Without Wasting a Drop

Bogus booze has been infiltrating the market, so physicists found a way to test for authenticity while keeping the precious bottles sealed.

source https://www.wired.com/story/a-new-tool-detects-counterfeit-whisky-without-wasting-a-drop

1More ColorBuds Review: The Comfiest Earbuds Around

The successor to WIRED’s favorite earbuds, these comfortable, affordable wireless headphones are our new top pick.

source https://www.wired.com/review/1more-colorbuds

The Fight Over the Fight Over California’s Privacy Future

Prop. 24 is designed to make the California Consumer Privacy Act stronger. Why do so many privacy advocates oppose it?

source https://www.wired.com/story/california-prop-24-fight-over-privacy-future

Portland’s Face-Recognition Ban Is a New Twist on ‘Smart Cities’

The first big US city to prohibit private businesses from using the technology reflects rising skepticism of new tools and concerns about fairness.

source https://www.wired.com/story/portlands-face-recognition-ban-twist-smart-cities

The Madness of Susanna Clarke, Fairy Princess

After more than a decade away, the author is back with 'Piranesi,' a way to communicate the incommunicable.

source https://www.wired.com/story/susanna-clarke-piranesi-fairy-princess

How Work Became an Inescapable Hellhole

Instead of optimizing work, technology has created a nonstop barrage of notifications and interactions. Six months into a pandemic, it's worse than ever.

source https://www.wired.com/story/how-work-became-an-inescapable-hellhole

Could a Century-Old TB Shot Protect Against Other Respiratory Diseases?

A trial in Greece shows a long-used tuberculosis vaccine may cut respiratory infections, raising hopes for similar protection against Covid-19.

source https://www.wired.com/story/could-a-century-old-tb-shot-protect-against-other-respiratory-diseases

The 6 Best Kids Face Masks: Masks They May Actually Wear

Whether your kids are going to school or playing outside, you'll need comfortable face coverings. These are the ones my little monsters will tolerate.

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

Think Twice Before Using Facebook, Google, or Apple to Sign In Everywhere

So-called single sign-on options offer a lot of convenience. But they have downsides that a good old fashioned password manager doesn't.

source https://www.wired.com/story/single-sign-on-facebook-google-apple

How to Watch WIRED25 2020

Join us at 12 pm ET on Wednesday for the next installment of WIRED25, and check out the replay of our opening night events.

source https://www.wired.com/story/how-to-watch-wired25-2020

Colds Nearly Vanished Under Lockdown. Now They’re Coming Back

The return of non-Covid respiratory illnesses is putting a new strain on testing supplies around the world—and is a preview of what’s in store for the US.

source https://www.wired.com/story/colds-nearly-vanished-under-lockdown-now-theyre-coming-back

Get WIRED: Director Nia DaCosta on Horror and Black Trauma

On this week’s podcast, the director of the upcoming 'Candyman' talks to WIRED writer Jason Parham about genre, social justice, and the future of going to the movies.

source https://www.wired.com/story/get-wired-podcast-9-nia-dacosta

The Cheating Scandal That Ripped the Poker World Apart

Mike Postle was on an epic winning streak at a California casino. Veronica Brill thought he had to be playing dirty. Let the chips fall where they may.

source https://www.wired.com/story/stones-poker-cheating-scandal

The 3 Best VR Headsets and Some Games to Play (2020)

Virtual reality is more accessible than ever and these headsets can take you there, whether you want a standalone, room-scale, or PC-based experience.

source https://www.wired.com/gallery/best-vr-headsets-in-this-reality

Geoengineering Is the Only Solution to Our Climate Calamities

Altering Earth’s geophysical environment is a moon shot—and it will be the only way to reverse the damage done. It’s time to take it more seriously.

source https://www.wired.com/story/geoengineering-is-the-only-solution-to-our-climate-calamities

Mathematical ‘Hocus-Pocus’ Saved Particle Physics

Renormalization, a technique that helps bridge the big and the small, has become perhaps the single most important advance in theoretical physics in 50 years.

source https://www.wired.com/story/mathematical-hocus-pocus-saved-particle-physics

The iOS 14 Privacy and Security Features You Should Know

The latest update for your iPhone and iPad will make them safer than ever.

source https://www.wired.com/story/ios-14-privacy-security-features

The Best Creams and Tools for Removing Hair: Creams, Wax, and More

Shaving can cause razor burn and ingrown hairs. These alternative options might be better for your skin—and sanity.

source https://www.wired.com/gallery/best-hair-removal-gear

As Trump Squeezes China, Alipay’s Star Rises

Chinese consumers tap the fintech app to pay bills, order in restaurants, and book appointments. Now it’s preparing for an IPO that could value it at $200 billion.

source https://www.wired.com/story/trump-squeezes-china-alipay-star-rises

Mathematicians May Have Figured Out How ‘Stone Forests’ Form

An NYU team thinks it's finally unlocked the secret to how these mysterious landforms get their interesting shape.

source https://www.wired.com/story/mathematicians-may-have-figured-out-how-stone-forests-form

A Bluetooth Flaw Leaves Billions of Devices Vulnerable

Indictments against Iranian hackers, a Veterans Affairs data breach, and more of the week's top security news.

source https://www.wired.com/story/bluetooth-vulnerability-iran-indictments-security-news

Democracy Will Only Work If the Social Media Giants Grow Up

The former chair of the Federal Election Commission argues that the integrity of the 2020 election is largely in the hands of Facebook and Twitter.

source https://www.wired.com/story/opinion-democracy-will-only-work-if-the-social-media-giants-grow-up

The 6 Best Laptop Stands (2020): Adjustable, Portable, and More

Help your back and posture by raising your computer screen up to eye level.

source https://www.wired.com/gallery/best-laptop-stands

What’s Causing the Mass Bird Die-Off in the Southwest?

Thousands of migrating birds have died, perhaps starved by drier conditions related to climate change or by having to fly inland to avoid wildfire smoke.

source https://www.wired.com/story/whats-causing-the-mass-bird-die-off-in-the-southwest

A Patient Dies After a Ransomware Attack Hits a Hospital

The outage resulted in a significant delay in treatment. German authorities are investigating the perpetrators on suspicion of negligent manslaughter.

source https://www.wired.com/story/a-patient-dies-after-a-ransomware-attack-hits-a-hospital

Why Teens Are Falling for TikTok Conspiracy Theories

Conspiracies like Pizzagate are all over the social media platform. Here’s why they’ve found an audience there.

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

How to Set Your Own Default Browser and Email App in iOS 14

Not into Safari or Apple Mail? With the next update, you can (finally) customize your preferences. Here’s what to know before you get started.

source https://www.wired.com/story/set-default-web-browser-email-ios-14-iphone

The 943-Dimensional Chess of a Trustworthy Covid-19 Vaccine

Scientists want public confidence. The White House wants an October Surprise. The FDA wants to avoid looking political. Big Pharma wants a win. You’re in the middle.

source https://www.wired.com/story/the-943-dimensional-chess-of-a-trustworthy-covid-19-vaccine

19 Best Weekend Deals: Cameras, Apple Gear, and Games

The new 8th-generation iPad is already slightly discounted, alongside headphones, laptops, and PS4 titles like 'Ghosts of Tsushima'.

source https://www.wired.com/story/weekend-deals-sept-19-2020

Trump’s TikTok Circus Will Have Lasting Consequences

The larger issues around China’s technological rise aren’t going away.

source https://www.wired.com/story/trump-tiktok-circus-lasting-consequences

Dune Is a Hard Book to Adapt

Anyone who's seen David Lynch's 1984 film knows Frank Herbert's book doesn't translate easily to the screen.

source https://www.wired.com/2020/09/geeks-guide-dune-adaptation

The Progressive Case for a TikTok Sale

A principled, hands-off approach to the internet was easier to defend in the 1990s. Today it makes no sense.

source https://www.wired.com/story/the-progressive-case-for-a-tiktok-sale

The 5 Best Cheap Phone Plans (2020): Alternatives to the Big Carriers

If you’re a Verizon, T-Mobile, or AT&T subscriber, these networks may save you a lot of money each month.

source https://www.wired.com/story/guide-to-mvno-phone-plans

Gen Z Has a Plan to Save the Election—Starting With the Polls

Poll workers, who skew elderly, are in short supply during the pandemic. Meet some of the young people trying to make up the gap.

source https://www.wired.com/story/gen-z-plan-save-2020-election-poll-workers

Netflix's 'Ratched' Is a Plea for Mental Health Care

The show attempts to address flaws in the health care system—and in failing to do so, proves how much more attention mental illness needs.

source https://www.wired.com/story/netflix-ratched-mental-health

Streaming Services Are Abusing the + Sign and It Must End

In the beginning, there was ESPN+, then Disney+. Now that CBS All Access is becoming Paramount+, it’s time to call a moratorium.

source https://www.wired.com/story/no-more-plus-signs

Apple One Could Be a Bundle of Problems

Plus: U2’s iPod partnership, the public sector’s need for tech minds, and unwelcome hurricane visitors.

source https://www.wired.com/story/plaintext-apple-one-could-be-a-bundle-of-problems

What’s in Wildfire Smoke, and How Dangerous Is It?

Blazes on the West Coast are spewing a haze clear across the country. Along the way, the complex chemistry of what we inhale gets even more complex.

source https://www.wired.com/story/whats-in-wildfire-smoke-and-how-dangerous-is-it

Apple Wants You to Smash That Subscribe Button

This week, we break down Apple’s latest announcements, from new hardware to its push into bundles and home workouts.

source https://www.wired.com/story/gadget-lab-podcast-473

Rocket Lab Could Beat NASA Back to Venus in the Search for ET

After years of neglect, Earth’s other neighbor is back in the spotlight following a major discovery. A private rocket company may be the first to visit.

source https://www.wired.com/story/rocket-lab-could-beat-nasa-back-to-venus-in-the-search-for-et

Companies Can Track Your Phone’s Movements to Target Ads

Brands are seeking new ways to customize messages. A startup that gathers data on when you pick up your phone, or when you go out on a run, can help.

source https://www.wired.com/story/companies-track-phones-movements-target-ads

How to Use a Second Monitor With Your Laptop

Need a little more desktop real estate, or just tired of hunching over a small screen all day? Here’s how to give your back—and eyes—a break.

source https://www.wired.com/story/how-to-use-a-second-monitor-with-your-laptop

YouTube’s Plot to Silence Conspiracy Theories

From flat-earthers to QAnon to Covid quackery, the video giant is awash in misinformation. Can AI keep the lunatic fringe from going viral?

source https://www.wired.com/story/youtube-algorithm-silence-conspiracy-theories

The Nintendo 3DS' Surprisingly Social Legacy

Nintendo just discontinued the iconic portable game console, but the real 3DS was the friends we made along the way.

source https://www.wired.com/story/obituary-nintendo-3ds-in-memoriam

What Even Is ‘Coordinated Inauthentic Behavior’ on Platforms?

No one knows, not even the policy writers or enforcers. And the ambiguity is exacerbating threats to our electoral process.

source https://www.wired.com/story/what-even-is-coordinated-inauthentic-behavior-on-platforms

Why Wasn't Uber Charged in a Fatal Self-Driving Car Crash?

Authorities charged the vehicle's "safety driver" with criminal negligence, but not the company that developed the technology.

source https://www.wired.com/story/why-not-uber-charged-fatal-self-driving-car-crash

The NIH Launches a Global Hunt for Animal-to-Human Diseases

It’s a reversal for an administration that’s been loath to prepare for pandemics or cooperate with China, where Covid-19 jumped from wildlife to people.

source https://www.wired.com/story/the-nih-launches-a-global-hunt-for-animal-to-human-diseases

Want to Save the Whales? Eavesdrop on Their Calls

A clever new system called Whale Safe listens for the cetacean chorus to alert vessels to slow down, potentially preventing deadly ship strikes.

source https://www.wired.com/story/want-to-save-the-whales-eavesdrop-on-their-calls

5 Fall Camping Deals: Tents, Jackets, Fire Pits, and More

Not blazing hot, not freezing cold ... autumn is the best season for campers. We've rounded up discounts on campsite gear to better your next adventure.

source https://www.wired.com/story/fall-camping-deals-september-17-2020

Hey Students! Here's How to Deal With School in a Pandemic

Obviously this situation sucks for everyone, but I have a few tips to help you make the most of a bad situation. (Also, don't cheat.)

source https://www.wired.com/story/hey-students-heres-how-deal-with-school-pandemic

The Wayback Machine and Cloudflare Want to Backstop the Web

The Internet Archive and the infrastructure company are teaming up to make sure sites never fully go down.

source https://www.wired.com/story/cloudflare-internet-archive-wayback-machine

How to Break Out of Your Social Media Echo Chamber

Platforms like Facebook are designed to profit from humans' confirmation bias. Here's how to restore balance to your feed.

source https://www.wired.com/story/facebook-twitter-echo-chamber-confirmation-bias

GoPro Hero 9 Black Review: Time to Upgrade

The company's newest action camera adds a full-color front screen, 5K, and software enhancements that make capturing the moment easier than ever.

source https://www.wired.com/review/gopro-hero-9-black

Science Journals Are Purging Racist, Sexist Work. Finally

Getting rid of harmful papers is a vital step toward reestablishing readers' trust. Next, publishers should target articles that are flawed in other ways.

source https://www.wired.com/story/science-journals-are-purging-racist-sexist-work-finally

Hong Kong Is a Troubling Case Study in the Death of Democracy

A free press suppressed. A vote postponed. Dissent criminalized. China’s insidious reengineering of the region marches on, but not without a fight.

source https://www.wired.com/story/hong-kong-is-troubling-case-study-in-death-of-democracy

The Best iPad (2020): Which Apple Tablet Should You Buy?

Choosing an iPad is more complicated than it needs to be, but we’re here to help with our complete guide to all of Apple’s tablets.

source https://www.wired.com/gallery/the-best-ipad

WIRED25 Day 1: Be Empathetic to Each Other

Guests like Gabriela Cámara, Ghetto Gastro, Nia DaCosta, and Brie Larson discussed how to understand where others are coming from, whether through food or films.

source https://www.wired.com/story/wired25-day1-recap

How VR—and Marvel Superheroes—Might Elicit Empathy

At WIRED's virtual conference, actress Brie Larson, VR director Elijah Allan-Blitz, and Magic Labs Media founder Van Jones talked about their new short films.

source https://www.wired.com/story/jones-larson-allan-blitz-wired25

WIRED25: Ghetto Gastro Sees Food as a Weapon

As part of a conversation with Gabriela Cámara at our virtual conference, the cofounders of the “Black Power Kitchen of Tomorrow” say that what we eat can both empower and oppress us.

source https://www.wired.com/story/ghetto-gastro-gabriela-camara-wired25

Director Nia DaCosta on the Real-World Horrors in 'Candyman'

At this year's WIRED25, the writer-director talked about rebooting the classic slasher and the future of filmmaking after the pandemic.

source https://www.wired.com/story/nia-dacosta-wired25

WIRED25: Netflix’s Reed Hastings on Broadening Your Horizons

At the virtual event honoring our annual list of innovators and icons, he talked about why TV and movies will someday "be small."

source https://www.wired.com/story/reed-hastings-wired25

Oculus Quest 2 Review: The Best Way to VR

Sometimes the sequel is better, the Quest 2 is a virtually flawless improvement on the original.

source https://www.wired.com/review/oculus-quest-2-review

'Spellbreak' Conjures Up a Unique Spin on Battle Royale

So many games in the format lean on the same old tropes. This one has wizards instead.

source https://www.wired.com/story/spellbreak-battle-royale-first-impressions

Feds Charge Chinese Hackers With Ripping Off Video Game Loot From 9 Companies

A group known as Barium allegedly attacked hundreds of targets around the globe—and manipulated in-game goods and currency.

source https://www.wired.com/story/barium-winnti-china-hackers-video-game-loot-indictments

What's New in iOS 14 (and iPadOS 14): Our Full Feature Rundown

Your home screen is changing, and car keys may become optional. These are the top features you need to know in the latest iPhone and iPad update.

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

Why Are 2 Million People Still Getting Netflix DVDs by Mail?

The company still gets a healthy slice of revenue from disc rentals—but the service has suffered as a result of the pandemic.

source https://www.wired.com/story/why-are-2-million-people-still-getting-netflix-dvds-by-mail

Ethical Tech Starts With Addressing Ethical Debt

The rise of “zoombombing” is just the latest example of why developers need to plan for harmful misuses as much as potential costly bugs.

source https://www.wired.com/story/opinion-ethical-tech-starts-with-addressing-ethical-debt

Is the Internet Conscious? If It Were, How Would We Know?

As always, our tech advice columnist is here to help.

source https://www.wired.com/story/is-the-internet-conscious-if-it-were-how-would-we-know

Netflix's 'Challenger' Is a Gripping Look at NASA in Crisis

A new four-part documentary about the ill-fated Challenger mission highlights the risk of putting bureaucracy before science in human spaceflight

source https://www.wired.com/story/netflixs-challenger-is-a-gripping-look-at-nasa-in-crisis

How to Play Xbox and PC Games on Your Android Phone

Microsoft's Game Pass Ultimate cloud-enabled gaming service launched (formerly called Project xCloud). Here's how to check it out.

source https://www.wired.com/story/how-to-stream-xbox-games-on-your-phone

A Utah Company Claims It Invented Contact Tracing Tech

Blyncsy wants states using Apple and Google technology to pay it $1 per resident. It may not win, but the patent tussle could deter others from adopting apps.

source https://www.wired.com/story/utah-company-claims-invented-contact-tracing-tech

There's No Better Time to Be an Amateur Radio Geek

Once considered a nerdy basement hobby, lo-fi transmissions from ordinary folks save lives during wildfires, hurricanes, and other climate disasters.

source https://www.wired.com/story/amateur-radio-disaster-preparedness

America’s Top Science Journal Has Had It With Trump

The editor of Science has abandoned staid academic-speak to take on falsehoods in the White House—decorum be damned.

source https://www.wired.com/story/americas-top-science-journal-has-had-it-with-trump

How to Watch WIRED25

Tune in starting Wednesday, September 16, for conversations with Reed Hastings, Brie Larson, and more.

source https://www.wired.com/story/how-to-watch-wired25-2020

How an Epic Series of Tech Errors Hobbled Miami’s Schools

It started with the district hiring a little-known virtual charter school company, which led to balky connections and an even more troublesome curriculum.

source https://www.wired.com/story/epic-tech-errors-hobbled-miamis-schools

How 'Cuties' Got Caught in a Gamergate-Style Internet Clash

The French film is caught in the crosshairs of right-wing online movements. This isn't an anomaly. It's a new battle in a larger culture war.

source https://www.wired.com/story/cuties-netflix-internet-clash

Apple Watch Series 6 and SE: Price, Details, Release Date

The new wearable uses an LED array to measure your blood oxygen level, among other new features.

source https://www.wired.com/story/apple-watch-series-6-and-se

Anime Avatars Are Going Mainstream on Twitch

Vtubers have racked up millions of subscribers—and even established stars like Pokimane have given the motion-capture medium a try.

source https://www.wired.com/story/vtube-streaming-twitch-pokimane

Everything Apple Announced: Apple Watch 6, Apple Watch SE, iPad Air, Fitness+

There are two new wearables, two new iPads, and a whole bunch of bundled subscription services.

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

5 Best Camping Stoves for 2020 (Portable Propane Gas Stoves)

We sautéed, boiled, and burned our food to find the best portable propane gas stoves for your next outdoor adventure.

source https://www.wired.com/gallery/best-camping-stoves

How to Leave Space and (Safely) Crash Back Down to Earth

A former astronaut explains what it’s like to pilot the Space Shuttle onto the runway … and boink back down to the ground on the Soyuz.

source https://www.wired.com/story/how-leave-space-safely-crash-back-down-earth

If You've Just Had Covid, Exercise Can Cause Serious Complications, Including Heart Disease

A growing number of studies are raising concerns about the coronavirus’ long-term effects on the heart. Athletes especially need to heed the warnings.

source https://www.wired.com/story/if-youve-just-had-covid-exercise-might-not-be-good-for-you

How to Watch Apple's September 2020 Event

You can stream Apple's product announcement on your mobile device, on your computer, or—the best way—on your television.

source https://www.wired.com/story/how-to-watch-apple-event-september-15

Could Breathalyzers Make Covid Testing Quicker and Easier?

A breath test would offer advantages over throat and nose swabs, but the technology is novel, and early trials with volunteers are still ongoing.

source https://www.wired.com/story/could-breathalyzers-make-covid-testing-quicker-and-easier

The Trump Team Has a Plan to Not Fight Climate Change

It may take decades to see the worst effects of global warming. Yet Jim Reilly, the director of the US Geological Survey, is committed to short-term thinking.

source https://www.wired.com/story/the-trump-team-has-a-plan-to-not-fight-climate-change

FedEx Will Track Your Packages More Precisely Than Ever

A Bluetooth-based system coming this fall will be especially useful for high-value shipments, like medicines or vaccines.

source https://www.wired.com/story/fedex-track-packages-more-precisely

Stacey Abrams on How We’ll Beat Back Voter Suppression

The former Democratic candidate for Georgia governor talks democracy, election tech, and why speaking Klingon doesn’t always help. As told to Gilad Edelman.

source https://www.wired.com/story/stacey-abrams-election-voter-suppression

One Data Scientist’s Quest to Quash Misinformation

Sara-Jayne Terp uses the tools of cybersecurity to track false claims like they’re malware. Her goal: Stop dangerous lies from hacking our beliefs.

source https://www.wired.com/story/data-scientist-cybesecurity-tools-quash-misinformation

A Texas County Clerk’s Bold Crusade to Transform How We Vote

How Dana DeBeauvoir set off the biggest, weirdest, and most promising revolution in election technology since the 1800s.

source https://www.wired.com/story/dana-debeauvoir-texas-county-clerk-voting-tech-revolution

The Facebook Defectors Turning Trump’s Strategy Against Him

The platform was key to the president’s upset victory in 2016. Can a group of former employees use it to boost Joe Biden?

source https://www.wired.com/story/acronym-facebook-defectors-turn-trump-playbook-against-him

How We’ll Know the Election Wasn’t Rigged

Whether you’re casting a ballot in person or by mail, there’s plenty to worry about. Mass voter fraud shouldn’t be on the list.

source https://www.wired.com/story/election-mass-voter-fraud-protections

The International Playbook for Foiling Russian Interference

The Kremlin has meddled in so many elections that democracy’s immune system has gotten wise to its threats. Here are lessons other countries can teach us.

source https://www.wired.com/story/international-playbook-foiling-russian-interference

CBP Seized OnePlus Buds as ‘Counterfeit’ AirPods. Now It's Doubling Down

The US government has detained thousands of wireless earbuds on suspicion of being fake Apple goods—despite crystal clear branding from an established company.

source https://www.wired.com/story/cbp-doubles-down-oneplus-buds-counterfeit-apple-airpods

Nvidia's Arm Deal Would Make It the Center of the Chip World

Combining the two chipmakers would unite leaders in two big tech trends—artificial intelligence and mobile computing.

source https://www.wired.com/story/nvidias-arm-deal-make-center-chip-world

Shady Contracts, Raw Deals: Inside the Industry of Managing Video Game Stars

Many of the two dozen streamers, managers, and lawyers WIRED spoke with described rampant exploitation they've seen or experienced in the booming business.

source https://www.wired.com/story/streaming-video-game-star-management-industry

Antarctic Glaciers Are Growing Unstable Above and Below Water

New studies show fractures on surface ice and warm seawater melting the ice from underneath. That’s a harbinger of a coming collapse—and sea level rise.

source https://www.wired.com/story/antarctic-glaciers-are-growing-unstable-above-and-below-water

Platforms' Election 'Fixes' Are Rooted in Flawed Philosophy

Just 50 days out, Facebook, Google, and Twitter have done little more than roll out small patches—recalling the old coding ethos of "Worse is better."

source https://www.wired.com/story/platforms-election-fixes-are-rooted-in-flawed-philosophy

Scientists Found Phosphine on Venus—A Possible Hint of Life

A simple molecule floating in Venus's atmosphere is now humans' best bet for finding companionship in the galaxy.

source https://www.wired.com/story/dr-phosphine-and-the-possibility-of-life-on-venus

Section 230 Is a Government License to Build Rage Machines

The law serves as Facebook and Google’s get-out-of-jail-free card for conspiracies and disinformation. It’s time for strong amendments.

source https://www.wired.com/story/opinion-section-230-is-a-government-license-to-build-rage-machines

What Happens If You Smash a Boat Into a Whale?

On the show The Boys, a speedboat smashes into a cetacean and the humans emerge unscathed. Could this happen in real life?

source https://www.wired.com/story/what-happens-if-you-collide-boat-with-whale

11 Best Tablets for Every Budget (2020): For Work, Play, Kids, and More

We rounded up all the top slates available right now. Whether you prefer iOS, Android, or Windows, we have a pick for you.

source https://www.wired.com/gallery/the-best-tablets

Yamaha THR30 II Review: A Guitar Amp of the Future

This second-generation desktop amp is a wireless wunderkind that acts as a Bluetooth speaker and audio interface.

source https://www.wired.com/review/yamaha-thr30-ii

How to Watch Apple's September 2020 Event

You can stream Apple's product announcement on your mobile device, on your computer, or—the best way—on your television.

source https://www.wired.com/story/how-to-watch-apple-event-september-15

Climate Grief Is Burning Across the American West

Climate change is making wildfires bigger, fiercer, and deadlier, fueling a new kind of despair on the West Coast—and beyond.

source https://www.wired.com/story/climate-grief-is-burning-across-the-american-west

Voting Machines Suck. This Pair Has a Plan to Fix Them

On this week’s Get WIRED podcast, we tell the story of how a computer science professor and a Texas county clerk teamed up to make our elections more secure.

source https://www.wired.com/story/get-wired-podcast-8-voting-machines

10 Best Android Phones (Unlocked): Our Top Picks for 2020

WIRED Tested. Shopping for a new phone can be an ordeal. Let us take some of the pain out of it with these picks and tips.

source https://www.wired.com/gallery/best-android-phones

Knife Aid Review: A Decent, but Not Great, Mail-in Sharpening Service

This mail-in knife-sharpening service is a great convenience, but the quality of its work doesn't always make the cut.

source https://www.wired.com/review/knife-aid

Skin Care and Makeup Get the High-Tech Treatment

Allure and WIRED teamed up to create this guide to the technology transforming beauty and wellness.

source https://www.wired.com/story/skin-care-and-makeup-get-the-high-tech-treatment

Governments Shouldn’t Choose the News in Your Feed

A proposed law in Australia would force Facebook and Google to pay news publishers for their content—and create a state-sponsored media regime.

source https://www.wired.com/story/opinion-governments-shouldnt-choose-the-news-in-your-feed

Mathematicians Open a New Front on an Ancient Number Problem

For millennia, many have wondered whether odd perfect numbers exist. Insight could come from studying the next best things.

source https://www.wired.com/story/mathematicians-open-a-new-front-on-an-ancient-number-problem

Traeger Ironwood 650 Review: Easy Grilling

If you want to become a pitmaster without leaving the couch, this Wi-Fi-powered electric pellet smoker and app can help.

source https://www.wired.com/review/traeger-ironwood-650

The Safest Ways to Log In to Your Computer

Passwords, keyfobs, fingerprints—there are lots of ways to gain access to your laptop or desktop. Here are the best and most secure.

source https://www.wired.com/story/safest-ways-log-in-computer

Everyone Wants to Crack Down on China—Except Silicon Valley

Many Democrats agree with Trump on curbing the country’s influence. But a Biden administration, influenced by tech, may strike a different tone.

source https://www.wired.com/story/crack-down-china-except-silicon-valley

8 Best Portable Grills (2020): Charcoal, Propane, Electric, Infrared

We barbecued for weeks to find the right charcoal and propane gas grills for your home or that you can lug to the beach, park, or campsite.

source https://www.wired.com/story/best-portable-grills

Hackers Target Porn Site Visitors Using Flash and Internet Explorer

Plus: Ransomware holds up schools, Zoom adds two-factor, and more of the week's top security news.

source https://www.wired.com/story/porn-site-malware-ransomware-schools-zoom-two-factor-security-news

Asbestos Removal Is a Hard Job, but Covid-19 Makes It Harder

Getting rid of asbestos is good for public health, but it’s risky for abatement workers, whose occupational risks make them vulnerable to Covid-19 complications.

source https://www.wired.com/story/asbestos-removal-is-a-hard-job-but-covid-19-makes-it-harder

What to Expect From Tuesday's Apple Event

Apple Watches, iPads, some secret surprises, and a reel of slickly produced videos to drive it all home. Just like old times … sort of.

source https://www.wired.com/story/apple-event-september-15-what-to-expect

14 Best Weekend Deals: Computer Peripherals, Audio Gear, and More

With sales on monitors, headphones, and surround-sound speakers, we've rounded up gadgets that can help you hibernate inside until spring.

source https://www.wired.com/story/weekend-deals-september-12-2020

The 20-Year Hunt for the Man Behind the Love Bug Virus

For two decades, Onel de Guzman has been suspected of unleashing the groundbreaking virus. But he's never confessed to anything—until now.

source https://www.wired.com/story/the-20-year-hunt-for-the-man-behind-the-love-bug-virus

Google's Autocomplete Ban on Politics Has Some Glitches

The search giant tweaks its algorithm after WIRED finds it would suggest “Donate Biden,” but not “Donate Trump.”

source https://www.wired.com/story/googles-autocomplete-ban-politics-glitches

Hulu's New Comedy 'Woke' Is Perfectly Absurd

The show, starring Lamorne Morris, is just too weird to ever feel preachy. Phew.

source https://www.wired.com/story/review-hulu-comedy-woke

How Much Do Crowds Contribute to Covid? It's Complicated

That Sturgis coronavirus paper had flaws, but it's not useless. And it shows the US needs better data collection. Until then, better get used to stewing in uncertainty.

source https://www.wired.com/story/how-much-do-crowds-contribute-to-covid-its-complicated

It's Not Easy Being a BookTuber

Daniel Greene, who makes a living through his YouTube channel, recently started a podcast. It's a respite from the video sites analytics.

source https://www.wired.com/2020/09/geeks-guide-daniel-greene

Vintage Electric Roadster Review: An Ebike That Offers Pure Joy

This café-racer-inspired ebike is an incredible ride, but it’s more than a touch expensive for these trying times.

source https://www.wired.com/review/vintage-electric-roadster

The Apocalypse Doesn’t Need an Instagram Filter

Plus: Kevin Systrom’s app inspiration, the characteristics of successful CEOs, and Colorado’s disconcerting forecast.

source https://www.wired.com/story/plaintext-the-apocalypse-doesnt-need-an-instagram-filter

The Best Privacy-Friendly Alternatives to Google Maps

Google Maps is arguably the easiest mapping service to use, but that doesn't mean it's the most secure.

source https://www.wired.com/story/the-best-privacy-friendly-alternatives-to-google-maps

Lidar Is Finally Becoming a Real Business

The success of lidar companies was unclear until this summer, when three leading makers offered glimpses of their finances.

source https://www.wired.com/story/lidar-is-finally-becoming-a-real-business

Stop Yelling About a Rushed Vaccine, and Start Planning for It

Public health experts should spend less time criticizing emergency authorization and more time discussing how to ensure the process works.

source https://www.wired.com/story/stop-yelling-about-a-rushed-vaccine-and-start-planning-for-it

We’re All Working (Out) From Home

This week, we look at the latest gear from Peloton and discuss whether we’re ever going back to the gym.

source https://www.wired.com/story/gadget-lab-podcast-472

What Is the Internet of Things? A WIRED Guide

What you need to know about the promise (and peril) of networked lightbulbs, ovens, cameras, speakers and, well … everything.

source https://www.wired.com/story/wired-guide-internet-of-things

How to Watch WIRED25

Tune in starting Wednesday, September 16, for conversations with Reed Hastings, Brie Larson, and more.

source https://www.wired.com/story/how-to-watch-wired25-2020

Blood Centers Are Barely Meeting Convalescent Plasma Demand

Despite a lack of scientific studies on its efficacy for Covid-19, interest in the treatment has surged alongside case numbers.

source https://www.wired.com/story/blood-centers-are-barely-meeting-convalescent-plasma-demand

Those Orange Bay Area Skies and the Science of Light

Wildfire smoke turned California and Oregon skies orange. Inside that smoke was alchemy—the chemistry and physics of molecules and wavelengths.

source https://www.wired.com/story/those-orange-western-skies-and-the-science-of-light

Russia’s Fancy Bear Hackers Are Hitting US Campaign Targets Again

Microsoft says the GRU hacking group has attacked hundreds of organizations over the past year, many of them tied to the upcoming election.

source https://www.wired.com/story/russias-fancy-bear-hackers-are-hitting-us-campaign-targets-again

Esports Pros Have ‘Dream’ Jobs—but Game Publishers Have All the Power

Franchised leagues are a modern experiment in what happens when a marketing initiative becomes a billion-dollar industry.

source https://www.wired.com/story/esports-pros-labor-game-publishers-power

Kids' Smartwatches Are a Security Nightmare Despite Years of Warnings

Five out of six brands tested by researchers would have allowed hackers to track kids—and in some cases eavesdrop on them.

source https://www.wired.com/story/kid-smartwatch-security-vulnerabilities

Ad Mergers Won't Save Journalism. Strict Merger Rules Would

The abandoned Taboola-Outbrain chumbox merger illustrates the need for bright-line tules to give media companies a fighting chance.

source https://www.wired.com/story/opinion-ad-mergers-wont-save-journalism-strict-merger-rules-would

BlackBerry Is Planning a Comeback. For Some, It Never Left

Loyalists had been mourning the physical keyboards (and Brick Breaker) until Onward Mobility announced a new 5G Android Blackberry arriving in 2021.

source https://www.wired.com/story/blackberry-is-planning-a-comeback-but-for-some-it-never-left

Microsoft Surface Duo Review: Not Quite There

The company's first dual-screen phone points to a future for mobile technology that is both exciting and disappointing.

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

12 Best Noise-Canceling Headphones (2020): Earbuds, Over-Ears, and More

These over-ears and earbuds will add some quiet and serenity to your day.

source https://www.wired.com/gallery/best-noise-canceling-headphones

44 Square Feet: A School-Reopening Detective Story

Schools—but not public health officials—across the US are making it a rule: Every student needs to have 44 sq. ft. of space. I tried to find out why.

source https://www.wired.com/story/44-square-feet-a-school-reopening-detective-story

Anduril’s New Drone Offers to Inject More AI Into Warfare

A swarm of Ghost 4s, controlled by a single person on the ground, can perform reconnaissance missions like searching for enemy weapons or soldiers.

source https://www.wired.com/story/anduril-new-drone-inject-ai-warfare

What is 5G? The Complete Guide to When, Why, and How

Dive deep into the 5G spectrum, millimeter-wave technology, and why 5G could give China an edge in the AI race.

source https://www.wired.com/story/wired-guide-5g

TikTok Is Paying Creators. Not All of Them Are Happy

Users say the platform’s new Creator Fund is opaque and riddled with problems. The company says it’s listening.

source https://www.wired.com/story/tiktok-creators-fund-revenue-sharing-complaints

A DHS Official Says He Was Punished for Not Pushing Trump's Agenda

Brian Murphy says he was pressured to alter reports on Russia and white supremacy—and that he was fired for refusing to budge.

source https://www.wired.com/story/dhs-whistleblower-trump-national-intelligence

AI Ruined Chess. Now, It's Making the Game Beautiful Again

A former world champion teams up with the makers of AlphaZero to test variants on the age-old game that can jolt players into creative patterns.

source https://www.wired.com/story/ai-ruined-chess-now-making-game-beautiful

The Bay Area Just Turned Orange. All Eyes Are on PurpleAir

Catastrophic wildfires are spewing smoke all over the West Coast. This website lets you track the respiratory crisis in real time—with a few caveats.

source https://www.wired.com/story/bay-area-just-turned-orange-all-eyes-on-purpleair

5 Luggage Deals for Off-Season Savings: Duffels, Carry-Ons, and More

You might not be traveling right now, but there are sales on everything from carry-ons to a cavernous wheeled duffel for your next trip.

source https://www.wired.com/story/luggage-deals-september-9-2020

The First 'Dune' Trailer Makes Some Epic Promises

Frank Herbert's sci-fi classic is a bear to adapt. But director Denis Villeneuve appears to be giving his all—in the middle of a pandemic, no less.

source https://www.wired.com/story/dune-first-trailer

How to Calculate How Many Helium Balloons David Blaine Needed

I'm not saying you should float yourself up into the air, but if you wanted to, you need to take pressure, density, and a few other things into account.

source https://www.wired.com/story/lets-calculate-how-many-balloons-david-blaine-needs-float

The 6 Best Posture Correctors (2020): Braces, Gadgets, Apparel, and More

You're hunched over your desk and phone for hours. So we rounded up the gear to help you straighten up—including a DIY trick and yoga advice.

source https://www.wired.com/gallery/posture-correctors

ReMarkable 2 Review: Great for Taking Notes, But Not Much Else

For taking notes, nothing beats putting pen to paper—though this E Ink tablet tries very hard.

source https://www.wired.com/review/remarkable-2

Hate Social Media? You’ll Love This Documentary

The Social Dilemma argues that humanity’s greatest existential threat is not climate change, but Facebook.

source https://www.wired.com/story/social-dilemma-netflix-documentary

What’s It Like to Be Canceled by Netflix?

It sucks! WIRED catches up with Lisa Hanawalt, the creator of Tuca & Bertie.

source https://www.wired.com/story/tuca-bertie-lisa-hanawalt

LG Velvet 5G Review: Suave, Bland, and Overpriced

Smooth looks alone can't make this Android phone stand out in a very crowded and competitive field.

source https://www.wired.com/review/lg-velvet

Chinese Users Turned GitHub into a Land of Free Covid Speech

As China cracked down on the spread of coronavirus information behind its Great Firewall, GitHub became a refuge from censorship. It may not last long.

source https://www.wired.com/story/china-github-free-speech-covid-information

Is Lightning-Fast Plasma the Key to a Cleaner Car Engine?

Researchers have long experimented with “lean burn” engines, which boost efficiency and reduce the emissions from combustion. But getting them to ignite is tricky.

source https://www.wired.com/story/is-lightning-fast-plasma-the-key-to-a-cleaner-car-engine

Join Us for This Year's Virtual WIRED25 Celebration

It's free, and it's the only event where you'll find Brie Larson, Nia DaCosta, Anthony Fauci, Ghetto Gastro, Sarah Friar, and more all on one lineup.

source https://www.wired.com/story/wired25-announcement-2020

Meet This Year’s WIRED25: People Who Are Making Things Better

The scientists, technologists, artists, and chefs who are standing between us and species collapse.

source https://www.wired.com/story/wired25-2020-people-making-things-better

Peter Strzok Has a Warning About Russia—and Trump

In an interview with WIRED and in his new book, the former FBI agent details the threats the US faces as the 2020 election looms.

source https://www.wired.com/story/peter-strzok-compromised-book-russia-trump

The Best Android 11 Features and How to Download It

Google's newest version of its mobile operating system adds small but helpful improvements. If you have a Pixel phone, you can download it today.

source https://www.wired.com/story/best-android-11-features-and-how-to-download

Uber Pledges to Go All-Electric, but It Doesn't Own the Cars

The ride-hail company joined rival Lyft with a “Green” pledge. It's counting on incentives to encourage drivers to switch to battery power.

source https://www.wired.com/story/uber-pledges-electric-doesnt-own-cars

Mental Health in the US is Suffering—Will It Go Back to Normal?

Covid-19 has left lots of people feeling anxious and depressed. But it’s hard to untangle whether this is a normal response to a difficult situation or actual pathology.

source https://www.wired.com/story/mental-health-in-the-us-is-suffering-will-it-go-back-to-normal

School in the Age of Covid: A Series of Impossible Decisions

Pandemic pods? Blended learning? What about the digital divide? On this week’s Get WIRED podcast, listeners share their “back” to school struggles.

source https://www.wired.com/story/get-wired-podcast-7-covid-school

How to Escape From a Volcano Eruption

If you had been in Pompeii in 79 AD, you might have tried to hunker down or escape by sea. This would be a mistake. But there is a way to safety.

source https://www.wired.com/story/how-to-escape-from-erupting-volcano

Peloton Bike+ and Tread+: Price, Release Date, Details

The long-rumored new bike and treadmill from Peloton arrives as the company doubles down on the home workout trend.

source https://www.wired.com/story/peloton-new-bike-home-gyms

Why Contact-Tracing Apps Haven’t Slowed Covid-19 in the US

Lack of coordination, test shortages, and mistrust of technology have hobbled what looked like a promising innovation.

source https://www.wired.com/story/why-contact-tracing-apps-not-slowed-covid-us

Julian Assange Lays Out His Case Against US Extradition

The argument hinges in part on psychiatrists' testimony that Assange is a high suicide risk.

source https://www.wired.com/story/julian-assange-us-extradition-case

All Your Questions on Apple’s Move Away from Intel, Answered

The news that Macs will soon have Apple chips might have you wondering whether you should buy now or wait. Here's everything you need to know.

source https://www.wired.com/story/apple-mac-intel-switch-guide

How to Boost WhatsApp’s Privacy and Better Protect Your Data

The Facebook-owned company has end-to-end encryption by default—but that doesn't mean the service’s settings are as private as they could be.

source https://www.wired.com/story/how-to-boost-whatsapps-privacy-and-better-protect-your-data

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

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

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

Your Smartphone Can Tell If You’re Drunk-Walking

In a recent study, scientists could tell if people were intoxicated just by looking at their phones’ motion data.

source https://www.wired.com/story/your-smartphone-can-tell-if-youre-drunk-walking

RIP, Laika: 'Space Dogs' Will Break Your Heart

The new documentary about Russia's doomed canine cosmonaut hurts the soul—and turns the stomach.

source https://www.wired.com/story/space-dogs-laika-documentary

Solo Stove Yukon Review: The Ultimate Backyard Firepit

Solo Stove's 27-inch Yukon burns hot—and it'll give your household great s'mores for years to come.

source https://www.wired.com/review/solo-stove-yukon

6 Best Compact Cameras (2020): Cheap, Rugged, 10x Zoom, and More

Your phone's portrait mode is no match for these point-and-shoot cams. These are the best pocket cameras we've tested.

source https://www.wired.com/gallery/best-compact-cameras

6 Best Compact Cameras (2020): Cheap, Rugged, 10x Zoom, and More

Your phone's portrait mode is no match for these point-and-shoot cams. These are the best pocket cameras we've tested.

source https://www.wired.com/gallery/best-compact-cameras

18 Labor Day Deals to Make Your Home an Oasis: Candles, Lighting, Plants, and More

There are a ton of sales on candles, smart lighting, and sleep accessories to ease the stress (and blues) of quarantine.

source https://www.wired.com/story/labor-day-deals-to-help-you-relax

Mathematicians Report New Discovery About the Dodecahedron

Starting at a corner, could you walk around the surface of this Platonic solid without crossing other corners? To get the answer, you need an 81-holed doughnut.

source https://www.wired.com/story/mathematicians-report-new-discovery-about-the-dodecahedron

How to Organize Your Browser Tabs

If you’re drowning in a sea of browser tabs, these are the tricks and tools you need to get your head above water.

source https://www.wired.com/story/how-to-organize-browser-tabs

Oura Ring Review: Worth the Hype

No, you can’t diagnose yourself with Covid-19 by wearing a ring. But it can tell me when my period is coming.

source https://www.wired.com/review/oura-ring

Doctors and Nurses Take to TikTok to Fight Covid Myths

“We can treat only one patient at a time, but if we can get a message out there that can hit thousands or hundreds of thousands, then we can change their thoughts.”

source https://www.wired.com/story/doctors-nurses-tiktok-fight-covid-myths

My Doomed Search for a Bedside Wireless Phone Charger

My wife and I have spent years testing out dozens of wireless chargers on our nightstands. We’re still hunting.

source https://www.wired.com/story/bedside-wireless-chargers-rant

Every Christopher Nolan Film, Ranked for You to Disagree With

'Tenet' is finally out. Here's how it stacks up to the rest of Nolan's movies.

source https://www.wired.com/story/every-christopher-nolan-film-ranked-for-you-to-disagree-with

A Florida Teen Shut Down Remote School With a DDoS Attack

Plus: Predictive policing taken even farther, Amazon surveillance of private Facebook groups, and more of the week’s top security news.

source https://www.wired.com/story/florida-teen-ddos-school-amazon-labor-surveillance-security-news

9 Fun Ways to Help Kids Learn While they Play at Home (2020)

Learning isn't limited to school. Grab some of these tools and turn your kids into curious scientists exploring their world.

source https://www.wired.com/gallery/home-learning-play-tools-for-kids

Climate Change Drove the American Mastodon to Extinction

They migrated north to escape the heat but lost their genetic diversity, making them vulnerable to extinction. Today, some species face the same problem.

source https://www.wired.com/story/climate-change-drove-the-american-mastodon-to-extinction

How to Solve Bluetooth's Most Annoying Headphone Problems

Wireless headphones are convenient, but they come with a host of tricky troubleshooting problems. Here's how to fix them all.

source https://www.wired.com/story/bluetooth-headphone-troubleshooting-tips

No, Amazon Won't Deliver You a Burrito by Drone Anytime Soon

Several companies are testing airborne deliveries. But rules are years away, and no one knows if consumers are even interested.

source https://www.wired.com/story/amazon-wont-deliver-burrito-drone-soon

The 22 Best Labor Day Sales (2020): Tech, Laptops, Phones, Outdoors, Etc

This long weekend, you can save on tablets, robot vacuums, camping gear, and more.

source https://www.wired.com/story/best-labor-day-sales-2020

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

‘Marvel's Avengers’ Is a Multiplayer Hero-Spree You Can Skip

If you want to assemble your friends to play, there’s no need to buy this game to do it.

source https://www.wired.com/story/marvels-avengers-videogame-review

Neuralink Is Impressive Tech, Wrapped in Musk Hype

Cool research tool? Definitely. A way to remotely control a computer or a prosthetic? Sure. But reading minds and storing memories? Not so fast.

source https://www.wired.com/story/neuralink-is-impressive-tech-wrapped-in-musk-hype

The End of the Universe Will Probably Disappoint Sci-Fi Fans

Sorry, folks: There probably won't be a Big Crunch.

source https://www.wired.com/2020/09/geeks-guide-end-of-universe

Qualcomm’s Founder On Why the US Doesn’t Have Its Own Huawei

Plus: Wireless at the turn of the century, a highly anticipated question, and a surprise in the stratosphere.

source https://www.wired.com/story/plaintext-qualcomms-founder-on-why-the-us-doesnt-have-its-own-huawei

John Boyega Is Right About Star Wars

The actor's criticism of how the franchise treated characters of color is obvious to those who watched the trilogy. He's just calling it out.

source https://www.wired.com/story/john-boyega-star-wars

11 Best Mattress Sales and Deals for Labor Day (2020)

All of our favorite WIRED-tested bed-in-a-box mattresses are on sale for Labor Day weekend, including some by Helix, Leesa, and Casper.

source https://www.wired.com/story/best-labor-day-mattress-sales-2020

Why Can’t We Vote Online Yet?

This week, we discuss the security of mail-in voting (very good) and future of online ballots in the US (very unlikely).

source https://www.wired.com/story/gadget-lab-podcast-471

Creepy ‘Geofence’ Finds Anyone Who Went Near a Crime Scene

Police increasingly ask Google and other tech firms for data about who was where, when. Two judges ruled the investigative tool invalid in a Chicago case.

source https://www.wired.com/story/creepy-geofence-finds-anyone-near-crime-scene

Will WhatsApp’s Misinfo Cure Work for Facebook Messenger?

To protect the election, the platform will limit message forwarding to five people at a time.

source https://www.wired.com/story/facebook-messenger-limits-misinformation-election-2020

Facebook's Zuckerberg Says He's Got Election Stuff Under Control

Facebook rolls out its plan to protect the US from November mayhem.

source https://www.wired.com/story/facebook-mark-zuckerberg-2020-election-under-control

Dungeons & Dragons TikTok Is Gen Z at Its Most Wholesome

A growing community of D&D fans on the platform have no time for the gatekeeping of previous generations.

source https://www.wired.com/story/dungeons-and-dragons-tiktok

Human Embryo Gene Editing Gets a Road Map—Not a Green Light

After the 2018 “Crispr baby” scandal, a global commission assessed the technology and set strict criteria for moving it toward clinical trials.

source https://www.wired.com/story/human-embryo-gene-editing-gets-a-road-map-not-a-green-light

The Trump Administration Continues to Erode Election Security

The DHS, the DOJ, and the Office of the Director of National Intelligence have all had recent controversies that bode poorly for electoral integrity.

source https://www.wired.com/story/trump-election-security-dhs-doj-odni

Could a Tree Help Find a Decaying Corpse Nearby?

On a “body farm,” researchers are exploring whether the nutrients from human cadavers can change the look of plants, which authorities might use to locate missing persons.

source https://www.wired.com/story/could-a-tree-signal-if-a-corpse-is-decaying

A Critical Flaw Is Affecting Thousands of WordPress Sites

Hackers have been exploiting the vulnerability, which is now patched: Users should update to File Manager version 6.9 ASAP.

source https://www.wired.com/story/a-critical-flaw-is-affecting-thousands-of-wordpress-sites

Oxo 8 Cup Coffee Maker Review: Brews 8 Great Cups, or Just 1

A countertop brewer with a smart design that makes a near-perfect carafe.

source https://www.wired.com/review/oxo-8-cup-coffee-maker

Startup Perks Go Remote—and Take a More Inclusive Approach

Tech companies are swapping on-campus gourmet chefs for free snack deliveries, but they're also stepping up childcare support and mental health services.

source https://www.wired.com/story/startup-perks-go-remote-childcare-mental-health

REI Labor Day Sale: 16 Deals on Camping Essentials You Need

It's a great time to buy gear for your socially-distant adventures. Here's everything you need to go from 0 to outdoors pro.

source https://www.wired.com/story/rei-labor-day-camping-deals

The Transgressive, Progressive Utopia of Summer Television

Genre-bending series like I May Destroy You and Lovecraft Country may be rooted in pain, but they’re also thrillingly hopeful.

source https://www.wired.com/story/2020-summer-television

Gravity, Gizmos, and a Grand Theory of Interstellar Travel

For decades, Jim Woodward dreamed of a propellantless engine to take humans to the stars. Now he thinks he’s got it. But is it revolutionary—or illusory?

source https://www.wired.com/story/mach-effect-thrusters-interstellar-travel

Big Tech Companies Want to Help Get You Back in the Office

Alphabet, Microsoft, and Salesforce are offering services to track employees, arrange tests, and record results—all while most of their staffers are remote.

source https://www.wired.com/story/big-tech-help-get-you-back-office

Access to Telemedicine Is Hardest for Those Who Need It Most

Older patients and other vulnerable populations tend to need more medical care, but it’s often difficult for them to get online for remote visits.

source https://www.wired.com/story/access-telemedicine-is-hardest-those-who-need-it-most

The FBI Botched Its DNC Hack Warning in 2016—but Says It Won’t Next Time

Facing looming election threats and a ransomware epidemic, the bureau says it has revamped its process for warning hacking victims.

source https://www.wired.com/story/fbi-hacking-victim-notifications

The Flagrant Hypocrisy of Bungled College Reopenings

Higher education has ignored its main mission: to teach critical thinking. It’s time to take the adults back to school.

source https://www.wired.com/story/the-flagrant-hypocrisy-of-bungled-college-reopenings

Google Wants to Remix News Radio Just for You

The company’s latest news product is an ever-replenishing playlist of audio stories—curated, in part, by the wealth of data it has on you.

source https://www.wired.com/story/google-your-news-update-podcasts

Your Beloved Blue Jeans Are Polluting the Ocean—Big Time

When you wash denim, tiny fibers shed and flow into the environment. Scientists just found that Arctic waters are now loaded with little bits of jeans.

source https://www.wired.com/story/your-blue-jeans-are-polluting-the-ocean

No, Public Trust in Scientific Institutions Has Not Eroded

But given what we've seen during the pandemic, maybe it should.

source https://www.wired.com/story/no-public-trust-in-scientific-institutions-has-not-eroded

Covid Snuffed Out Burning Man—but the Festival Goes On in VR

No one in the meatspace is going to the Black Rock Desert this year. So I soared into the sprawling digital reconstruction that is BRCvr.

source https://www.wired.com/story/burning-man-in-virtual-reality

Microsoft Surface Book 3 Review: An Expensive 2-In-1

Microsoft's refreshed 2-in-1 brings more power than ever before—but for the price, you're neither getting the best tablet nor the best laptop.

source https://www.wired.com/review/microsoft-surface-book-3

Flu Season and Covid-19 Are About to Collide. Now What?

Hospitals in the US are already stressed. Now, they must brace for a wave of flu patients needing more beds, lab tests, and ventilators.

source https://www.wired.com/story/flu-season-and-covid-19-are-about-to-collide-now-what

How to Deal With the Anxiety of Uncertainty

Our brains weren't wired to deal with the "psychological pandemic" of not knowing what the future holds. Here's how to cope with living in limbo.

source https://www.wired.com/story/how-to-deal-with-uncertainty-coronavirus

Amazon Deletes Job Posts Seeking Analysts to Track ‘Labor Organizing Threats’

The company says the descriptions of the roles were incorrect. Critics say it’s a warning shot.

source https://www.wired.com/story/amazon-deletes-job-posts-labor-organizing-threats