Meta has sued the people and groups behind three scam operations that used images and deepfakes of celebrities to lure users to scam websites. According to the company, the three entities were based in China and Brazil and targeted people in the US, Japan and other countries. The ads promoted fraudulent investment schemes and fake health products.
Meta said that it had filed lawsuits against several people in Brazil who promoted fake or unapproved healthcare products and online courses promoting them. The company also sued a China-based entity it says used ads featuring celebrities “as part of a larger fraud scheme that lured people into joining so-called investment groups.” The company didn’t provide details on how many ads these groups had run on Facebook, how many social media users had seen or interacted with the ads or how long the scammers had been operating on the platform.
So-called “celeb bait” ads have been a long-running issue for the company. Engadget has previously documented celeb bait scams on Facebook, including ones that frequently use Elon Musk and Fox News personalities to hawk fake cures for diabetes. The Oversight Board has also criticized the company for not doing enough to combat such scams. In its update, Meta says that “because scam ads are designed to look real, they’re not always easy to detect.” The company also noted that it has now enrolled “more than 500,000” celebrities and public figures into its facial recognition system that’s meant to automatically detect scam ads using the faces of famous people.
Meta’s handling of scammy advertisers has come under increased scrutiny in recent months after Reutersreported that researchers at the company at one point estimated that as much as 10 percent of its ad revenue could be coming from scams. The fact that Meta has made billions of dollars from problematic advertisers has also caused the company to be slow to take action against repeat offenders.
In addition to the groups behind the celeb bait ads, Meta says that it’s upgraded its ability to detect scam ads that use cloaking, which has at times hindered its internal review systems. The company also sued a Vietnam-based advertiser it says used scam ads to hawk “deeply discounted items from well-known brands,” including Longchamp.
Meta also took legal action against eight former “Meta Business Partners,” who promoted services that would “un-ban” or other “account restoration services.” The company says it will “consider taking additional legal action, including litigation, if they don’t comply” with cease and desist orders.
According to Ofcom’s annual Pricing and Consumer Engagement Report 2026, average broadband prices have fallen by 6% over the past year.
The drop comes amid intensifying competition and a surge in “altnets”—alternative fibre providers—challenging the dominance of major players including BT and Virgin Media.
The report highlights that the savings available to those willing to shop around are substantial. On average, UK households can save £183.60 per year simply by switching to a new provider once their initial contract ends.
This “loyalty penalty” continues to be a focus for the regulator, which is urging consumers to take advantage of the ultra-fast speeds and lower monthly costs offered by smaller, independent networks.
Regulations delayed
While the price drop is a win for consumers, the report also revealed a timeline that has frustrated consumer advocates. Ofcom announced it will not review its current “pounds and pence” price rise regulation until 2027.
Under existing rules, providers must state mid-contract price increases in clear monetary terms (e.g., £3.00 per month), rather than as a percentage linked to inflation.
However, critics argue this hasn’t gone far enough to protect bill payers. Alex Tofts, a broadband expert at Broadband Genie, expressed significant concern over the delay in further reform.
“The UK has excellent competition when it comes to shopping for a new broadband deal,” Tofts noted. “If you use a trusted comparison service, look beyond the mainstream providers. Alternative networks such as BeFibre, Lit Fibre, and YouFibre typically offer faster download speeds at a lower monthly price, and they won’t increase prices mid-contract.”
However, Tofts was blunt regarding the regulator’s timeline:
“We’re disappointed we’ll have to wait until 2027 for any changes to mid-contract price rises. Ofcom needs to wake up. Our analysis shows that bill payers are paying far beyond the rate of inflation due to the new regulations. These mid-contract price rises only create confusion and add further pressure to household budgets. The obvious solution is to ban them outright to protect customers.”
While the 6% overall price drop is a positive step, the debate over the fairness of mid-contract hikes is likely to remain a central issue for millions of households until the 2027 review.
Apple is bringing age verification to the UK, as the latest iOS 26.4 beta prompts users to verify that they’re over 18 following installation. As shown in screenshots posted to Reddit, Apple says users who don’t confirm their age “will not be able to download and purchase apps or make in-app purchases.” In one of the screenshots, Apple notes that it may automatically confirm that users are over 18 using the payment method connected to their account, or the age of their account. Otherwise, Apple may ask users to scan their credit cards to confirm their age. The Verge
In a sprawling 20,000-word essay published last month, Dario Amodei, the chief executive of Anthropic, warned that advances in artificial intelligence could pave the way for a wave of killer robots. “A swarm of millions or billions of fully automated armed drones, locally controlled by powerful AI and strategically coordinated across the world by an even more powerful AI, could be an unbeatable army,” he wrote. He was not just worried about this threat coming from China or Russia but from Western democracies too. Telegraph
Mumsnet has launched a campaign to introduce a ban on social media for under-16s featuring health warnings in the style of those on cigarette packets. The deliberately provocative national advertising campaign calls for all social media to be banned for children under the age of 16. The images on billboards and social media make a number of stark statements related to health. They claim that “three hours or more social media a day makes teens more likely to self-harm.” Guardian
Nvidia boss Jensen Huang
Chip giant Nvidia has reported record annual revenue of $215.9bn (£159.1bn), despite a wave of investor scepticism about the massive amounts of money being spent on artificial intelligence (AI) technology. The firm also beat analyst’s forecasts as sales for the last three months of its financial year jumped by 73% compared to 12 months earlier. “Computing demand is growing exponentially,” boss Jensen Huang said. “Our customers are racing to invest in AI compute – the factories powering the AI industrial revolution and their future growth.” BBC
SpaceX has revealed that its “greatly enhanced” second generation (GEN2) of Direct to Cell (DtC) capable Starlink broadband satellites, which are due to launch in 2027, will aim to support 5G connectivity and deliver peak data speeds of 150Mbps (Megabits per second) per user. Starlink currently has around 9,800 satellites in Low Earth Orbit (LEO) – mostly at altitudes of between c.340-525km. Residential customers in the UK usually pay from £35 a month for the ‘Residential 100Mbps’ unlimited data plan (kit price may vary due to different offers), which also promises uploads of c.15-35Mbps and low latency connectivity. ISPreview
The iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max will have a smaller Dynamic Island, according to Bloomberg. Over the past year, there have been mixed rumors about whether the iPhone 18 Pro models will continue to feature a Dynamic Island or have a hole punch camera with under screen Face ID and no Dynamic Island, but the latest information suggests we’re not getting rid of the Dynamic Island just yet.
Along with Bloomberg, several prominent leakers on Weibo and other social media sites have said Apple will make the Dynamic Island smaller, but won’t eliminate it. MacRumors
Xiaomi has officially introduced its new Black Shark Gaming Tablet to the global market, positioning it as a high-performance option specifically engineered for mobile gamers. The device focuses on robust hardware, advanced cooling, and a high-fidelity display to support demanding gaming sessions.
The tablet features an 8.8-inch display with a 2.5K resolution (2560×1600). To ensure smooth gameplay, it offers a 144Hz refresh rate, 343 PPI, and a peak brightness of 600 nits. Under the hood, the device is powered by the Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 processor, featuring a CPU speed of up to 3.0 GHz and an NPU capable of 40 TOPS.
The global version is currently available in a single configuration, equipped with 12GB of LPDDR5X RAM and 256GB of UFS 4.0 internal storage. For users requiring more space, the storage is expandable up to 2TB via a microSD card. The device ships with Android 16 pre-installed.
Design and Cooling Infrastructure
Built with aerospace-grade aluminum, the tablet maintains a portable profile with a thickness of 7.7 mm and a weight of 332 grams. Given its focus on performance, the device includes a sophisticated cooling system spanning 25,176 mm². This thermal architecture consists of a vapor chamber, multiple graphene layers, and a metallic frame designed to dissipate heat during sustained use.
Battery and Connectivity
The tablet is powered by a 7,300mAh battery, which the manufacturer claims provides up to 5.6 hours of continuous gaming. Connectivity options include Wi-Fi 6 (2×2 MIMO), Bluetooth 5.4, and a USB-C port with DisplayPort support for 4K video output. Multimedia features include symmetrical dual speakers with a K9 amplifier, a 13MP rear camera, and a 5MP front-facing camera.
Pricing and Availability
The Black Shark Gaming Tablet is currently available through the brand’s official store on AliExpress, priced at $670.97. While the brand has primarily focused on peripherals recently, this launch marks a significant step back into the high-end mobile gaming hardware segment.
In a shift to its safety protocols, Instagram has announced it will begin proactively alerting parents if their teenagers repeatedly search for terms related to suicide and self-harm.
The feature marks the first time that parent company Meta will notify parents about specific search behaviours, rather than simply blocking the content and providing resources to users.
The move comes as Meta and other tech giants face what experts are calling their “Big Tobacco” moment. CEO Mark Zuckerberg recently testified in Los Angeles Superior Court regarding allegations that Instagram’s design fosters addiction and detrimental mental health effects in minors.
By introducing these alerts, Meta aims to provide parents with “the resources they need to support their teen” during critical windows of distress.
How the alerts will function
The system is designed to trigger when a teenager enrolled in Instagram’s “Teen Accounts” repeatedly searches for phrases promoting self-harm or terms like “suicide” within a short period. Notifications will be delivered to parents via email, text, WhatsApp, or through the Instagram app itself.
Meta acknowledged that the system might “err on the side of caution,” potentially sending alerts that do not indicate a genuine crisis. However, it maintains that notifying parents is the “right starting point.”
The rollout will begin next week in the United Kingdom, United States, Australia, and Canada, with a global release planned for later this year. Meta also intends to expand these alerts to its AI chatbots, as more children turn to artificial intelligence for emotional support.
Backlash from safety advocates
Despite the intended safety benefits, the Molly Rose Foundation – a charity established following the death of 14-year-old Molly Russell – has heavily criticized the plan. Chief Executive Andy Burrows warned that “forced disclosures could do more harm than good,” noting that “flimsy notifications will leave parents panicked and ill-prepared” for the sensitive conversations that follow.
Advocates argue that the burden of safety is being shifted onto parents rather than addressed at the source. The Molly Rose Foundation cited research suggesting that Instagram’s algorithms still actively recommend harmful content to vulnerable youths.
Similarly, Ged Flynn of the charity Papyrus stated that parents “don’t want to be warned after their children search for harmful content; they don’t want it to be spoon-fed to them by unthinking algorithms.”
As regulators in countries like Australia move toward total social media bans for under-16s, Meta’s latest tool represents a high-stakes attempt to prove that self-regulation can still protect young users in an increasingly digital world.
The popular password management service 1Password has begun notifying users of an upcoming price hike for several of its subscription tiers. Scheduled to take effect on March 27, 2026, the adjustments will see some plan costs rise by as much as 33%.
The price adjustments vary depending on the specific plan and billing cycle. For existing subscribers, the new rates will only apply upon their first renewal date following the March 27 deadline.
Individual Monthly Plan: Increasing from $3.99 to $4.99 (a 25% rise).
Family Monthly Plan: Increasing from $6.95 to $7.99 (an approximate 15% rise).
Individual Annual Plan: Increasing from $35.88 to $47.88 (the steepest increase at 33%).
Family Annual Plan: Increasing from $59.88 to $71.98 (a 20% rise).
In an official statement, the company justified the price increase by citing ongoing investments in product development and the integration of new features. Recent updates to the platform include enhanced anti-phishing protections and the expanded capability to securely store and manage diverse payment information.
A critical component of this transition is the requirement for explicit user consent. 1Password has directed subscribers to a specific confirmation page to accept the new pricing terms. Failure to provide consent before the next renewal date—on or after March 27—will result in the automatic cancellation of the subscription.
While 1Password remains a leader in the security software market, these double-digit percentage increases may prompt long-term users to re-evaluate the service against increasingly competitive alternatives in the password management sector
Alternatives
Fortunately, we do have some alternatives for the service, so we decided to do a little comparison, as demonstrated by the table below:
Scream 8 might already be in the works. Damien Leone offers an update on Terrifier 4. James Gunn insists the Amazonian TV series Paradise Lost is still happening. Plus, new looks at Lee Cronin’s The Mummy, The Vampire Lestat, and more. To me, my spoilers!
Astronaut Down
According to Deadline, Sam Esmail is teaming with AfterShock Media and Netflix on Astronaut Down, a feature film based on the comic book of the same title by writer James Patrick and artist Rubine. Written for the screen by F. Scott Frazier (XXX: Return of Xander Cage), the story follows Douglas Spritzer, “an astronaut selected to be launched into alternate realities on a desperate mission to save Earth from a horrific crisis that has our world on the brink of extinction. Unfortunately, it’s a mission where everything will go wrong, where Douglas’ training and very humanity will be put to the test, and where a deep-seated secret could sabotage everything.”
Horrorstör
THR reports Jonathan Levine (Tell Me Lies) has been hired to write and direct the film adaptation of Grady Hendrix’s Horrorstör for Searchlight Pictures. The story concerns an “Ikea-like furniture superstore named Orsk in Cleveland that becomes subjected to supernatural occurrences. To uncover the mystery, a group of employees sign up for a night shift, only to get way more than they bargained for, in a most sinister way.”
A Little Slice of Hell
Deadline reports David F. Sandberg is attached to direct A Little Slice of Hell, a horror film at Paramount based on a short story of the same name by John Goodrich. The story follows “two underpaid supermarket employees who realize that they should have read the employee manual after encountering a customer from Hell—literally.”
Scream 8
According to Variety, “insiders suggest plans are already in place” for an eighth Scream film.
Terrifier 4
Meanwhile, Damien Leone revealed on social media he hopes Terrifier 4 will enter pre-production this spring.
Hey guys, I know it’s been a while so I wanted to drop in and give an official Terrifier 4 update 🤡 🤘: pic.twitter.com/9JF5snZgLA
The mummy doesn’t appreciate being unwrapped in a new clip from Lee Cronin’s The Mummy.
Yellowjackets
Deadline reports Molly Ringwald has joined the cast of Yellowjackets‘ fourth and final season as Van’s mom, Vicky, “a recently recovered alcoholic trying her best to course correct her past.”
Paradise Lost
James Gunn corrected the Wonder Woman prequel series Paradise Lost is “definitely not” cancelled in a recent post on Threads.
Definitely not. Jesus I go on Threads for the first time in weeks and it’s just one insanely wrong thing after the other. What is going on?
Daredevil: Born Again
During a recent interview with SFX Magazine (via Heroic Hollywood), Daredevil: Born Again showrunner Dario Scardapane suggested the series will not crossover with any of the MCU’s movie characters.
I’d be into it, because I dig the comics! But no. That’s been kind of a fun and challenging thing. We know there’s that huge world out there of the MCU. This corner of it has crossovers. We’ve seen Daredevil in other shows. There are other characters that are going to be popping up in movies and stuff, and that all goes into the larger MCU of it all.
The joke we make is, ‘Oh, those guys are uptown – we’re downtown!’ We kind of have a pocket that’s in this world of Hell’s Kitchen, in this world of New York. I always think that maybe these characters take little vacations into the larger world, but the story that we’re focusing on is really granular.
Ghosts
Spoiler TV has a synopsis for “The List”, the March 5 episode of Ghosts. Pictures at the link.
Sam and Jay work to secure Woodstone B&B a coveted spot on a prestigious luxury hotel list, only to face unexpected chaos when a vengeful newly discovered bunker ghost disrupts a crucial visit. Meanwhile, Flower and Thor clash over who gets to call the shots in their relationship.
Stranger Things: Tales from ’85
Collider has seven character posters from Stranger Things: Tales from ’85.
Primal
Spear gets into a pit fight with a giant in a clip from this Sunday’s episode of Primal.
Devil May Cry
We also have a sneak peek at the second season of Devil May Cry courtesy of IGN Fan Fest 2026.
The Vampire Lestat
Finally, IGN has an exclusive clip from The Vampire Lestat.
French AA gaming developer and accessory manufacturer Nacon has filed for insolvency after its majority shareholder Bigben failed to make a loan repayment, the company said in a press release. “To date, the company reports available assets do not allow it to meet its liabilities,” Nacon wrote. The objective with insolvency, it said, was to allow “continued operation, protect employees and maintain jobs while renegotiating with its creditors.”
Nacon is behind the games Styx: Blades of Greed and was set to publish Terminator: Survivors before that title was delayed. It published Hell is Us last year to some praise, but Test Drive Unlimited Solar Crown was buggy on release and failed to find much of an audience. The company will stream its next Nacon Connect presentation on March 4, and will supposedly show off some new games and footage for previously revealed games like Endurance Motorsport Series and Cthulhu: The Cosmic Abyss.
The company also makes hardware like controllers and headsets and racing sim accessories via its Revosim brand. Those products never really caught on with mainstream gamers but did have some success with the pro gaming crowd.
With Nacon’s insolvency, the future of those games and accessories is now in question. A court will decide on the company’s insolvency request at a hearing in early March, but in the meantime, trading of its shares is suspended.
Have you ever wondered what WoW boost services really entail? These services cater to players looking to enhance their gaming experience by leveling up characters, earning achievements, or acquiring rare gear. There are various boost service types, including power leveling, dungeon runs, and PvP boosts. Each service targets specific aspects of the game, allowing you to focus on what you enjoy most.
The boost service processes typically involve experienced players or teams taking over your account to complete tasks efficiently. You’ll provide them with your account details, and they’ll work their magic, ensuring your character reaches new heights in no time. It’s essential to choose a reputable service that guarantees account security and quick turnaround times. Understanding these elements can help you decide which boost service best fits your gaming goals, making your World of Warcraft journey smoother and more enjoyable.
Benefits of Using Boost Services
Using boost services in WoW can save you a ton of time, allowing you to skip grind-heavy tasks and jump straight into the action. Plus, these services often come with opportunities to enhance your skills, giving you insights from experienced players. You’ll not only level up faster but also improve your gameplay in the process.
Time-Saving Advantages
While it might be tempting to grind through every quest and level up the hard way, many players find that WoW boost services offer an invaluable shortcut. By utilizing these services, you can dramatically improve your time management and focus on the aspects of the game you truly enjoy. Instead of spending countless hours on repetitive tasks, you can achieve higher levels and access premium content in a fraction of the time. This boosts your gaming efficiency, allowing you to engage in endgame activities or explore new expansions sooner. Ultimately, investing in a boost service isn’t just about leveling up quickly; it’s about reclaiming your time and enhancing your overall gaming experience. Why not make the most of your gaming hours?
Skill Enhancement Opportunities
When you choose to invest in WoW boost services, you’re not just speeding through levels; you’re revealing a wealth of skill enhancement opportunities. These services can considerably improve your gameplay while teaching you valuable techniques. Here’s what you can gain:
Skill improvement methods: Learn effective ways to enhance your character’s abilities.
Gameplay strategies: Discover winning tactics that top players use in various scenarios.
Expert guidance: Benefit from professionals who share insights and tips for better performance.
Increased confidence: As you improve, you’ll feel more capable in tackling challenges.
Popular Character Leveling Services
Have you ever felt overwhelmed by the grind of leveling up in World of Warcraft? You’re not alone! Many players turn to popular character leveling services to speed up the process. These services often employ expert players who understand the best leveling strategies for various character classes.
Here’s a quick comparison of some popular services:
Service Name
Average Time (1-60)
Price Range
FastLeveling Pro
10-15 hours
$50 – $100
WoWBoost Masters
8-12 hours
$70 – $120
LevelUp Wizards
12-18 hours
$40 – $90
Speedy Boosters
9-14 hours
$60 – $110
Raid and Dungeon Boosting Options
If you’re enthusiastic to conquer the toughest raids and dungeons in World of Warcraft, raid and dungeon boosting options can be a game-changer. These services not only save you time but also provide valuable insights into raid strategies and dungeon mechanics, enhancing your gameplay experience. Here’s what you can expect from these boosting options:
Expert Guidance: Experienced players will lead you through complex encounters.
Efficient Runs: Save hours of grinding with streamlined routes and tactics.
Guaranteed Success: Focus on overcoming challenges with a higher win rate.
Learning Opportunities: Improve your skills by observing pro players in action.
With these boosting options, you’ll tackle high-level content with confidence and ease. Don’t miss out on the chance to elevate your WoW experience and enjoy the thrill of mastering each raid and dungeon alongside skilled teammates!
Item and Gear Acquisition Services
When it comes to enhancing your character’s power, item and gear acquisition services can be a game-changer. You can enjoy rapid gear farming, participate in raid and dungeon runs, or even get customized item acquisition tailored to your needs. These services help you gear up quickly, so you can focus on what really matters: conquering challenges in Azeroth.
Rapid Gear Farming
In the fast-paced world of World of Warcraft, countless players seek to enhance their gameplay experience through Rapid Gear Farming. This service focuses on maximizing gear efficiency, allowing you to quickly acquire the best items for your character. With expert farming strategies, you can save time and boost your performance.
Here’s what you can expect from rapid gear farming:
Tailored farming routes: Optimized paths for efficient loot collection.
Expert guidance: Professionals who know the best spots for gear drops.
Time-saving methods: Techniques that guarantee you get the gear you need faster.
Guaranteed results: Assurance that you’ll receive high-quality gear quickly.
With these services, you’ll be ready to conquer Azeroth in no time!
Raid and Dungeon Runs
For many players, participating in raid and dungeon runs is the ultimate way to acquire top-tier gear and powerful items in World of Warcraft. These runs not only provide the thrill of teamwork but also offer a chance to master raid strategies and dungeon mechanics. With skilled players guiding you through challenging encounters, you’ll learn the intricacies of each boss fight and how to effectively navigate dungeons. You’ll also discover the best tactics to maximize your loot potential. By joining a boost service, you can experience these runs without the hassle of forming a group or struggling with mechanics on your own. This means you’ll be well-equipped to face even the toughest challenges in Azeroth in no time.
Customized Item Acquisition
While many players enjoy the thrill of chance in loot drops, customized item acquisition services offer a more strategic approach to gear collection in World of Warcraft. With these services, you can focus on building custom gear sets that precisely fit your character’s needs, ensuring you get the best possible items without the grind.
Imagine having:
Tailored loot that matches your playstyle
Specific item requests fulfilled quickly
Guaranteed drops from targeted bosses
Exclusive access to rare gear sets
These services take the guesswork out of gear acquisition, allowing you to power up your character efficiently. So, if you want to optimize your gameplay, consider investing in customized item acquisition to get the gear you truly desire.
PvP Boosting for Competitive Players
If you’re looking to climb the ranks in PvP and dominate the competition, PvP boosting services offer a strategic advantage that can elevate your gameplay experience. These services not only enhance your character’s stats but also provide insights into competitive strategies and team dynamics that can be essential for success. By leveraging expert players, you can learn the best tactics and positioning, making you a formidable opponent.
Aspect
Benefits
Skill Improvement
Learn advanced techniques
Competitive Edge
Gain insights into strategies
Time Efficiency
Save hours of grinding
Team Coordination
Understand team dynamics
Rank Progression
Reach higher tiers faster
Utilizing PvP boosting services can drastically improve your performance, making every match more enjoyable and rewarding. Don’t just play the game; dominate it!
Choosing the Right Service Provider
When it comes to choosing the right WoW boost service, reputation and experience are key factors you shouldn’t overlook. You’ll want to compare service offerings to find one that fits your needs, while also ensuring pricing is transparent and offers real value. Making an informed choice will help you get the most out of your gaming experience.
Reputation and Experience
Choosing the right WoW boost service can feel overwhelming, especially with so many options available. To guarantee you’re making a wise choice, focus on the service’s reputation and experience, as these factors are vital in boosting credibility. Here are a few things to take into account:
Customer Reviews: Look for feedback from past clients to gauge satisfaction.
Years in Business: Established providers often have a better understanding of the game.
Transparency: A trustworthy service should clearly outline their methods and prices.
Communication: Responsive support can enhance your overall experience.
Service Offerings Comparison
Since every WoW boost service offers different packages and specialties, comparing their offerings becomes essential to finding the right fit for your gaming needs. Here’s a quick overview of common boost service types to help you make an informed choice:
Service Type
Description
Ideal For
Leveling Boost
Fast character leveling
New or casual players
Mythic+ Boost
High-level dungeon completion
Experienced players
Raid Boost
Gear acquisition from raids
Endgame players
PvP Boost
Ranked PvP matches and rewards
Competitive players
Pricing Transparency and Value
Understanding pricing transparency is essential when you’re looking for a WoW boost service that offers real value. By examining different pricing models, you can make a more informed value assessment. Here are a few things to take into account:
Clear breakdown of costs: Confirm you know what each service entails.
No hidden fees: Look for providers who are upfront about their pricing.
Refund policies: Understand the terms if the service doesn’t meet your expectations.
Customer reviews: Check feedback to gauge satisfaction and reliability.
When you focus on these factors, you’ll find a service that aligns with your budget and expectations, confirming you get the most bang for your buck in the exciting world of WoW boosting!
Cost Considerations for Boosting
When considering WoW boost services, it’s essential to factor in the costs involved, as they can vary considerably based on the type of boost you’re seeking. Conducting a thorough cost analysis will help you understand what you’re getting for your investment. Different services may charge based on the complexity or time required to achieve your desired results, from leveling boosts to raid completions.
As you engage in budget planning, it’s wise to set a realistic budget that aligns with your gaming goals. Some services may offer package deals, which could save you money in the long run. Don’t forget to check for any hidden fees that could impact your total cost. Ultimately, knowing what you’re willing to spend will help you choose a service that meets your needs without breaking the bank. Keep your priorities in mind, and find the boost service that fits your budget perfectly.
Safety and Security of Your Account
Investing in WoW boost services comes with its fair share of risks, particularly regarding the safety and security of your account. To guarantee a worry-free experience, it’s essential to choose a service that prioritizes account protection and secure transactions. Here’s what you should look for:
Reputable providers that have positive reviews and a solid track record.
Encryption technology to safeguard your personal and payment information.
Clear terms of service that outline their commitment to security.
Customer support that’s readily available to assist with any concerns.
Customer Reviews and Success Stories
Customer reviews and success stories can be a treasure trove of insights when considering WoW boost services. They provide real-life experiences that highlight customer satisfaction and success metrics. You’ll find that many players rave about their rapid progress and the professionalism of the boosting services.
Here’s a snapshot of what players are saying:
Service Name
Customer Satisfaction
Success Metrics
BoostMaster
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
95% success rate
EpicBoost
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
90% success rate
LevelUpBoost
⭐⭐⭐⭐
88% success rate
These testimonials not only validate the effectiveness of these services but also help you make informed decisions. So, take the time to read through these reviews; you might just find the perfect boost service that meets your needs!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Boost Services for New Expansions?
Yes, you can use boost services for new expansions! Expansion boosts can help you quickly access new content, level up faster, and enhance your gaming experience, making it easier to enjoy everything the latest expansion offers.
Are There Restrictions on Boosted Accounts?
Yes, there’re restrictions on boosted accounts, mainly regarding boost limitations and account security. You can’t trade certain items or access specific content until you meet requirements, ensuring a fair gameplay experience for everyone.
How Do I Know if a Service Is Reputable?
To determine if a service is reputable, check user reviews and look for service guarantees. Positive feedback and clear promises can indicate reliability, helping you avoid scams and ensuring you get quality boosts.
What Happens if My Boost Fails?
If your boost fails, check the service’s refund policies. Reputable services often offer refunds or reattempts. Always clarify their terms beforehand, so you’re prepared and know what to expect in case of boost failures.
Can I Play While My Account Is Being Boosted?
You can’t play while your account’s being boosted, as it risks account safety. The boost duration requires uninterrupted access to guarantee the best results. It’s best to wait for the completion before diving back in.
Samsung has officially introduced the Galaxy Buds4 series, comprising the Galaxy Buds4 Pro and Galaxy Buds4. These wireless earbuds are designed to elevate your audio experience with a blend of premium sound quality, advanced noise cancellation, and seamless integration into the Galaxy ecosystem. Whether you’re a dedicated audiophile or a casual listener, the Buds4 series promises an immersive and intuitive listening experience tailored to meet modern audio demands.
Refined Design for Comfort and Convenience
The Galaxy Buds4 series showcases a sleek and ergonomic design that prioritizes both comfort and practicality. These earbuds are crafted to remain secure and comfortable, even during extended use, making them suitable for a variety of activities. Key design highlights include:
A computationally optimized fit that ensures the earbuds stay securely in place during daily activities, from workouts to commutes.
The Buds4 Pro’s canal-fit design enhances noise isolation for a more immersive experience.
The Buds4’s open-fit option, catering to users who prefer a lighter, less intrusive feel.
Both models feature a premium metal finish, giving them a modern and polished aesthetic. Adding to their practicality, the earbuds are housed in a transparent clamshell charging cradle. This innovative cradle not only serves as a stylish storage solution but also allows users to monitor battery levels at a glance. Whether you’re working, exercising, or relaxing, the Galaxy Buds4 series is designed to provide all-day comfort and usability.
Enhanced Audio Performance
The Galaxy Buds4 series is engineered to deliver a rich and immersive sound experience, thanks to Samsung’s advanced audio technology. Equipped with a two-way speaker system, these earbuds ensure a balanced and dynamic sound profile. Key audio features include:
A wider woofer for deeper, more resonant bass and a refined tweeter for clear, crisp treble.
Support for 24-bit/96kHz hi-fi audio, delivering a natural and detailed soundstage that captures every nuance of your music.
Additionally, the series incorporates advanced Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) technology. By analyzing environmental noise and the unique shape of your ears, the earbuds dynamically adapt to minimize distractions. This ensures you can fully immerse yourself in your audio content, whether you’re listening to music, podcasts, or taking calls in noisy environments.
Adaptive Features for a Personalized Experience
Samsung has integrated intelligent technologies into the Galaxy Buds4 series to provide a personalized and adaptive listening experience. These features are designed to enhance usability and cater to individual preferences. Key adaptive technologies include:
Adaptive ANC/EQ automatically adjusts sound settings in real time based on your surroundings and listening habits.
Super Clear Call technology ensures exceptional voice clarity during calls, even in noisy or windy environments.
These adaptive features make the Galaxy Buds4 series particularly valuable for professionals, frequent callers, and anyone seeking consistent audio quality across various settings. Whether you’re in a bustling office or a quiet home, the earbuds adapt to deliver optimal performance.
Seamless Galaxy Ecosystem Integration
The Galaxy Buds4 series is designed to integrate seamlessly with the Galaxy ecosystem, offering a cohesive and intuitive user experience. This integration enhances productivity and convenience, making the earbuds a natural extension of your Galaxy devices. Key integration features include:
Support for hands-free AI agents like Bixby, Google Gemini, and Perplexity, allowing voice-controlled tasks and smart device management.
Head gesture controls, allowing you to answer calls, skip tracks, or adjust volume without needing to touch your device.
Effortless pairing with Galaxy devices and centralized control through the Galaxy Wearable app, where you can customize settings, apply updates, and monitor battery life.
This seamless integration ensures that the Buds4 series not only enhances your audio experience but also simplifies your interaction with other Galaxy devices, creating a unified and efficient ecosystem.
Availability and Options
The Galaxy Buds4 series will be available for pre-order in select markets, with general availability starting March 11, 2026. Customers can choose from three distinct color options:
White, offering a clean and classic look.
Black, for a sleek and understated aesthetic.
Pink Gold, an exclusive option available only for the Buds4 Pro, adding a touch of elegance.
With its combination of innovative features, user-centric design, and seamless ecosystem integration, the Galaxy Buds4 series is poised to set a new benchmark for wireless earbuds. Whether you’re seeking premium audio quality, advanced noise cancellation, or intuitive device connectivity, the Buds4 series offers a comprehensive solution tailored to modern audio needs.
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GoPro has officially teamed up with ASUS to launch the ProArt GoPro Limited Edition (PX13) convertible laptop globally, bringing a creator-focused machine that feels purpose-built for action storytellers. Developed through a close collaboration between GoPro and ASUS, this CES Innovation Award-winning laptop blends GoPro’s rugged, go-anywhere DNA with ASUS’ professional-grade hardware to create a seamless workflow from capture to edit.
Designed for the GoPro Ecosystem
The ProArt GoPro Edition is tightly integrated into the GoPro ecosystem, making it more than just a co-branded laptop. A dedicated GoPro hotkey instantly launches GoPro Player, reducing friction between shooting and reviewing footage. For creators constantly switching locations, this kind of shortcut can mean the difference between a missed moment and a polished highlight reel.
Another standout is StoryCube, described as the first Windows AI app with GoPro Cloud and 360 video integration. Powered by AI organization, StoryCube automatically sorts and categorizes footage, helping creators quickly locate their best shots without manually scrubbing through hours of content.
Serious Power for 5.3K and 8K Editing
Under the hood, the laptop is driven by the AMD Ryzen AI Max+ 395 processor paired with an impressive 128GB unified memory. This configuration is clearly aimed at demanding editing workflows, especially for ultra high-resolution content straight from the latest GoPro cameras.
Whether you are cutting footage from the HERO13 Black 5.3K or stitching immersive clips from the MAX2 True 8K 360 video, the PX13 is built to handle heavy rendering and multitasking without choking under pressure. For creators who work with high frame rates and complex timelines, that extra headroom matters.
Convertible Form Factor for Flexible Creation
The ProArt GoPro Limited Edition (PX13) features a convertible design, allowing users to switch between laptop and tablet modes. This flexibility makes it practical for editing on a plane tray table, sketching concepts in tablet mode, or presenting a finished cut to a client.
Included in the package are a rugged sleeve, special edition packaging, and the ASUS Pen 3.0, adding creative flexibility for annotating timelines or marking up visuals. The bundle also comes with a one-year GoPro Premium+ subscription, reinforcing the tight integration between hardware and cloud-based services.
Long-Term Creator-Focused Collaboration
This launch signals more than a one-off collaboration. Both brands describe it as part of a long-term partnership centered on building creator-first tools that simplify capturing, organizing, editing, and sharing stories. It is a logical alignment: GoPro brings capture innovation, while ASUS supplies the performance backbone.
The ProArt GoPro Limited Edition (PX13) is available globally starting today, and in the United States it is sold exclusively through Best Buy for $2,999. With its ecosystem integration, AI-driven workflow tools, and high-end hardware, GoPro continues expanding beyond cameras into a more complete creative platform alongside ASUS.
Nvidia reported earnings on Wednesday, and as expected, the numbers were good. Really good. The company gets more than 91% of its sales from its data center unit, which generated revenue of $193,737 billion, up 68% year-over-year.
“We have now scaled our data center business by nearly 13x since the emergence of ChatGPT in fiscal 2023,” Nvidia CFO Colette Kress said in the company’s earnings call on Wednesday.
While very impressive, the number is not all that surprising given that global AI spending is expected to reach $2.5 trillion this year, and Nvidia’s largest customers, the major AI hyperscalers Amazon, Alphabet, Meta, and Microsoft, all reported record capex figures earlier this month.
The hyperscalers also made eyewatering financial commitments for 2026 totaling nearly $700 billion, which came to the dismay of many investors who have been growing wary of AI spending.
Earlier this month, Evercore analysts warned that the huge capex could turn the hyperscalers’ cash flow negative.
And despite the record after record multibillion-dollar commitment made to scale AI infrastructure and grow the technology’s adoption across the American economy, the results are yet to fully materialize. A Goldman Sachs analyst recently said that AI contributed “basically zero” to U.S. GDP in 2025.
Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang spent most of his time in the investor call trying to justify that capex growth.
“I am confident in their cash flow growing, and the reason for that is very simple: we have now seen the inflection of agentic AI and the usefulness of agents across the world in enterprises everywhere,” Huang said.
AI adoption by enterprises beyond the tech world, and whether these companies actually see real productivity gains and revenue returns from AI integration, is really important to Nvidia, because that’s a major thing that the AI industry is currently lacking to quell worries over an AI bubble.
A recent survey found that despite 70% of firms employing AI, over 80% reported no impact on employment or productivity.
Last week, OpenAI COO Brad Lightcap told TechCrunch that his company had “not really seen enterprise AI penetrate enterprise business process.”
Some experts believe that Anthropic’s Claude Cowork unveiled earlier this month is going to be a turning point in AI’s penetration into the workforce, so much so that they believe it will lead to a mass extinction-level event for software companies, and maybe even white-collar work. Huang gave a special shout-out to Claude Cowork in the call as well.
Huang also had a technical explanation to justify the capex commitments.
“In this new world of AI, compute equals revenues,” Huang said, a phrase that he repeated many times throughout the call. Huang argues that tokens, aka the chunks of data that AI models process, are the most important part of a new AI economy. The more tokens a model uses, the more computing power and time it requires. So, as models are getting more complex, the demand for computing is also going up “exponentially,” Huang said. He argued that the capex commitments will go towards building this compute capacity, which will thus power higher-level models and translate to revenue.
“The amount of token generation capability that the world needs is a lot, more than $700 billion, and I’m fairly confident that we’re going to continue to generate tokens…fundamentally because every single company depends on software, every software will depend on AI, and so every company will produce tokens,” Huang said. “If the new software requires tokens to be generated and the tokens are monetized, then it stands to reason that their data center build-out directly drives their revenues.”
Huang’s justifications may not have immediately convinced the market. Even though shares rose at first in response to the report, after the call, gains eventually pulled back to less than 1%. That’s despite revenue that exceeded market expectations.
OpenAI and China are still blind spots
Throughout the call, Huang also tried to address rumors of a falling out with OpenAI, first spurred after a $100 billion Nvidia investment announced back in September 2025 reportedly failed to progress beyond the early stages after months. Then, two back-to-back reports claimed that Huang was privately criticizing OpenAI’s business approach while OpenAI was unhappy with the inference speed of Nvidia’s chips.
In the call on Wednesday, Huang repeatedly praised the AI giant’s offerings, but revealed that the investment was still not finalized.
“We continue to work with OpenAI toward a partnership agreement, and believe we are close,” Huang said on the call. The filing also refuses to give any assurance that “a transaction will be completed.”
Another piece of uncertainty weighing on Nvidia is China. The company shared that, as of this month, the Trump administration has finally allowed it to start shipping small amounts of its H200 chips to China, where it once held 95% of the market share before Trump first banned the chipmaker’s sales to China, sparking a saga of dizzying trade tit-for-tat between the two global superpowers. But executives still don’t know if the imports will be allowed in, and are not factoring it into the revenue they expect this year.
On March 3, skywatchers in North America, Australia, New Zealand, and eastern Asia will be treated to a special total lunar eclipse when the full Moon will don a spooky reddish hue.
Next week, the Moon will enter behind Earth’s shadow and become illuminated by the Sun’s light as it passes through the planet’s atmosphere. The filtered sunlight will cast a warm glow on the Moon’s disk, giving it a temporary deep orange to red color.
Where can I watch the total lunar eclipse
The full blood Moon will be visible in North America and is the last one we’ll see for nearly three years until December 2028. While totality will be visible in the evening for viewers in eastern Asia and Australia and throughout the night in the Pacific, it will occur in the early morning hours in North and Central America and far western South America, according to NASA.
The Moon will begin to enter Earth’s shadow at 3:44 a.m. ET, and the partial eclipse will occur at 4:50 a.m. ET. During the partial eclipse, it will appear as though a piece of the Moon has been bitten off as one side of the lunar disk appears very dark.
Totality, when the entire Moon is in the Earth’s umbra, begins at 6:04 a.m. ET and lasts for around an hour. That’s when the Moon turns a bloody, copper red.
Visibility map of the March 3 total lunar eclipse. Credit: NASA
For skywatchers in eastern North America, the blood Moon may not appear as dramatic as it will along the west coast or in other parts of the world. That’s because totality will occur around the same time as sunrise, and the skies won’t be dark enough to view the blood Moon in all its glory. The blood Moon will sink in the west right before dawn. This presents yet another challenge for skywatchers in the Eastern Time Zone, as the Moon will set before the eclipse reaches its maximum.
A partial lunar eclipse will also appear in Central Asia and parts of South America.
How to view the total lunar eclipse
Despite these challenges, you can still try to catch a glimpse of the blood Moon. A total lunar eclipse doesn’t require any special equipment—you can see it with the naked eye. For the best view, head somewhere dark and give your eyes time to adjust to the night sky.
At the time of the eclipse, the Moon will be in the constellation Leo. As the Moon’s light is dimmed by Earth’s shadow, it’s also an opportune time to view other celestial objects in the sky, as constellations appear brighter when they’re not competing with the natural satellite.
The next total lunar eclipse will take place on New Year’s Eve in 2028. It will be the first in a series of three lunar eclipses in a row, with the following one on June 26, 2029, and the next on December 20, 2029.
Virgin Media O2 has officially switched on its “O2 Satellite” service, becoming the first UK carrier to provide mobile connectivity directly from space to standard smartphones.
The landmark launch aims to eliminate persistent signal “not-spots,” effectively extending the network’s reach to 95% of the UK’s landmass, it claims.
The service is powered by a multi-year partnership with SpaceX’s Starlink constellation. Unlike traditional satellite phones that require bulky external hardware, O2 Satellite uses Starlink’s “Direct to Cell” technology.
This allows a fleet of over 650 low-Earth-orbit (LEO) satellites to act like cell towers in space, transmitting signals directly to existing 4G-capable handsets using O2’s own licensed spectrum.
At launch, the service is tailored for Pay Monthly customers as a £3 per month “Bolt On” addition. For those on O2’s premium “Ultimate Plans,” the company confirmed the feature will soon be bundled at no extra cost.
Designed for safety and basic communication in remote areas, the initial rollout focuses on text messaging and essential data-driven applications. Supported apps include WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger, and Google Maps, allowing hikers, sailors, and rural travellers to navigate and stay in touch even where terrestrial masts cannot reach.
The technology activates automatically when a user moves beyond the range of traditional cellular towers, provided they have a compatible device. At launch, the service is exclusive to the latest Samsung Galaxy S25 series, including the Ultra and Edge models, though Virgin Media O2 expects to expand compatibility to other manufacturers and include voice calling capabilities as the Starlink constellation grows.
Virgin Media O2 CEO Lutz Schüler described the launch as a “huge step forward” for UK connectivity, emphasizing that the service provides peace of mind for anyone moving beyond the “invisible boundary” of traditional signals.
It’s always a fun day for the space nerds when a NASA team has new images to share from the James Webb Space Telescope. Today’s pair has brains on the brain, with a look at the fittingly named Exposed Cranium Nebula. More officially, this cloud of space dust and debris is known as Nebula PMR 1. The images shared today may capture a moment in the final stages of a star, as well as giving hints as to how the nebula got its brain-like shape.
“The nebula appears to have distinct regions that capture different phases of its evolution — an outer shell of gas that was blown off first and consists mostly of hydrogen, and an inner cloud with more structure that contains a mix of different gases,” NASA’s blog post reads. The dark line that runs vertically through the nebula, giving it the cranial appearance, could be the result of “an outburst or outflow from the central star, which typically occurs as twin jets burst out in opposite directions.” Both Webb’s Near-Infrared Camera (NIRCam) and its Mid-Infrared Instrument (MIRI) were used to document the nebula.
It seems like any and every industry can have its own awards show these days. And why not? Most of us appreciate a chance to bust out the sequins and satin from time to time. If you can celebrate excellent work or make some extra biz dev bucks at the same time, all the better. Snap is the latest social media company to launch its own take on the glitz and glam. The Snappy Awards Show will be held at the company’s headquarters on March 31. Comedian and content creator Matt Friend will host the event.
Snapchat has been adding more tools for influencers to build audiences, most recently launching individual creator subscriptions. An awards show seems to be part of that same agenda, spotlighting popular personalities from many different fields. There will be Snappys handed out for categories such as Spotlight MVP, Best Storyteller and Breakout Creator of the Year, plus awards for collaboration, cultural impact and success in single subjects.
Snapchat isn’t the first social media platform to honor the personalities using it. TikTok hosted its inaugural awards show in the US last year.
At Samsung’s latest Unpacked event, held alongside the launch of its newest flagship smartphone, the Galaxy S26 series, the company introduced the Galaxy Buds4 Pro and Galaxy Buds4, its next-generation premium wireless earbuds.
The headline upgrade is audio hardware. The Galaxy Buds4 Pro features a redesigned two-way speaker system combining a wider woofer and a planar tweeter. Samsung says the woofer’s effective vibration area has increased by nearly 20%, allowing deeper bass without enlarging the earbud footprint. The company also claims up to 50% lower distortion compared to the previous generation.
Buds4 Pro supports 24-bit/96kHz playback through Samsung Seamless Codec (SSC UHQ) on compatible Galaxy devices, enabling high-resolution Bluetooth audio
Both models include Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) and Adaptive EQ, while Buds4 Pro adds Enhanced Adaptive ANC, which adjusts in real time based on wearing conditions and ear shape. Additional features include Voice Detect and Siren Detect, automatically adjusting ambient sound when conversations begin or important sounds are detected
For calls, Super Clear Call (Super Wideband) uses AI-based voice enhancement and noise reduction to improve clarity in loud environments.
Design-wise, the Buds4 series introduces a refined blade-style stem with an engraved control area. Users can swipe for volume, tap for playback, and customize press-and-hold shortcuts for features such as live translation or voice recording.
Samsung says the fit was optimized using millions of ear data points and more than 10,000 simulations. Buds4 Pro adopts a canal-fit design, while Buds4 uses an open-fit architecture
Battery life reaches up to 6 hours (ANC on) for Buds4 Pro with a total of 26 hours including the case, while Buds4 offers up to 5 hours (ANC on) and 24 hours total
Both support Bluetooth 6.1, Auto Switch, Auracast, and multiple codecs, including SSC.
Price and Availability
The Galaxy Buds4 series is available for pre-order starting today in select markets, with general availability beginning March 11. Pricing varies by region and retailer
Samsung’s live Galaxy S26 Unpacked launch event starts. The company introduces its latest flagship lineup with a clear focus on refinement and integration. Samsung emphasizes a lighter Ultra design, expanded AI capabilities, a new hardware-based privacy display, and more. Here is what Samsung is bringing to the Galaxy S26, S26+, and S26 Ultra.
Attractive, Slimmer, Lighter
Samsung has aligned the design language across the Galaxy S26, S26+, and S26 Ultra. All three share the same corner curvature and a camera module design that visually emphasizes the camera system without dramatically altering the silhouette.
The Ultra is described as “the slimmest and lightest Ultra to date”. In hand, it immediately feels surprisingly light for its class. Samsung replaced last year’s titanium frame with an upgraded Armor Aluminum. The company says this is its strongest aluminum formulation so far.
Gorilla Armor 2 protects the Ultra’s front display, while the base and Plus models use Gorilla Glass Victus 2. Samsung also increased the number of recycled materials used in construction.
Immediately feels surprisingly light for its class
One notable design decision is the absence of built-in magnets. Samsung chose to preserve thinness and weight, integrating magnets into many of its official cases instead. For users who rely on magnetic accessories, this shifts functionality to the accessory layer rather than the phone itself.
Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 for Galaxy and Thermal Update
All models are powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 “for Galaxy”. The Ultra uses Snapdragon globally, while the base and Plus models use it in “select regions”.
This platform features Qualcomm’s 3rd Gen Oryon CPU, Adreno GPU, and Hexagon NPU. Samsung emphasizes that this is a deeper collaboration with Qualcomm than in previous generations, hence the “for Galaxy” in some official language. I interpret it as Qualcomm spending more engineering resources to tune things for Samsung. The customization extends to camera processing and AI workloads, with a clear focus on responsiveness and efficiency. Connectivity is handled by Qualcomm FastConnect 7900. Ultra and Plus models also include integrated Ultra-Wideband.
To support sustained performance, Samsung redesigned the Ultra’s vapor chamber. Despite the thinner chassis, the cooling system now covers a larger surface area. This matters because many of the S26 features, including AI processing and video stabilization, rely on sustained computational performance.
Camera
Samsung describes the S26 as its best Galaxy camera yet. This is represented by the Ultra. Its main wide-angle lens features a brighter f/1.4 aperture and a 200MP sensor. Samsung worked closely with Qualcomm to optimize the image signal processing pipeline.
For video creators, the Ultra introduces support for the Samsung APV professional codec. Samsung says this enables high-quality, near-lossless workflows up to 8K at 30 frames per second. This is the first time the codec appears on a Galaxy device.
Brighter f/1.4 aperture and a 200MP sensor
Real-time horizon lock video stabilization is the real surprise
One of the most interesting additions is real-time horizon lock stabilization. Using gyro and accelerometer data, the phone can maintain a level horizon even if you rotate the device around its depth axis. The effect resembles a built-in gimbal. It is a thoughtful UX feature because it improves perceived production quality without requiring user expertise or extra hardware.
Editing tools in the Gallery app also expand. Photo Assist now supports natural language prompts for editing, including multimodal inputs. You can combine elements from different images through simple instructions.
Creative Studio centralizes sticker and content creation tools. Audio Eraser, introduced previously, now works in select third-party apps. Samsung also added a screenshot organizer that automatically categorizes screenshots into practical groups such as receipts or QR codes.
Display: 1 Billion Colors and TV-Derived Processing
All three Galaxy S26 models support 10-bit video and 10-bit display, enabling up to 1 billion color shades. Samsung’s MDNIe display processing improves color gradation and consistency.
The Plus and Ultra models include ProScaler, a technology derived from Samsung’s TV division. It enhances lower-resolution content for sharper viewing. This cross-division reuse of display expertise reflects Samsung’s broader ecosystem strategy.
Pixel-Level Privacy Display
The Galaxy S26 Ultra introduces a hardware privacy display. It limits viewing angles to roughly 15 degrees on each side by selectively controlling pixel illumination. The feature works in both portrait and landscape orientations and is technically very impressive, exclusive to Samsung, which developed it over multiple years.
Users can configure it to activate automatically for specific apps or when entering passwords. It can also be toggled manually or integrated into routines. Samsung says it does not increase battery consumption, since fewer pixels are actively illuminated when privacy mode is engaged.
This is one of the few genuinely new hardware-level privacy features introduced in the whole industry.
AI Features That Aim to Be Practical
Samsung continues expanding Galaxy AI but avoids presenting it as a standalone novelty. The focus is on everyday utility, which is an objective I can endorse. Samsung explicitly measures success by gauging how much time users save. For example, whether complex actions could come down to a single tap.
Nudge integrates into the Samsung Keyboard and suggests contextual actions while messaging. It can pull calendar events, contacts, or photos based on conversation context. Uber integration allows users to book a ride through voice commands, with steps executed in the background.
The focus is on everyday utility
Brief aggregates relevant information from notifications, not just calendar entries. Now, Bar surfaces contextual live notifications before unlocking the device.
Bixby also receives an upgrade with an on-device large language model. It knows and understands the device and can suggest or trigger adjustments. For example, if you mention eye strain, it may suggest activating eye comfort settings.
Call Screening uses AI to voice-answer incoming calls first, transcribing the caller’s reason before you decide to pick up. Transcripts are searchable later. Scam Detection analyzes conversations and known blacklisted numbers to warn users about suspicious calls. This is a spot-on use of AI to drain scammers’ time and save yours.
Charging Speeds Increase
Charging speeds vary by model. The Ultra supports 60W wired charging for the first time, which Samsung says can reach 75 percent in about 30 minutes. The Plus supports 45W, and the base model supports 25W. Wireless charging speeds also increase across the lineup.
It remains to be seen which chargers are required to reach full charging speed. It’s certain that Samsung will supply some options, but what about USB-PD support, for example? We’ll have to test it.
Various OEMs have demonstrated very high charging speeds before, even exceeding 100W. However, I see that broader compatibility with fast-charging is generally more important in practice.
Availability
Preorders begin February 25, with general availability starting in March.
As Samsung’s new tip of the spear, the Galaxy S26 series obviously refines the hardware, strengthens the silicon foundation, and introduces a few distinctive features, such as pixel-level privacy and real-time horizon lock video.
The full impact of these changes will depend on real-world testing -we’ll see- but Samsung’s direction is clear: tighter integration across hardware, software, and AI rather than isolated spec escalation.
The S26 Series is visually appealing, powered by robust hardware, equipped with high-performance cameras, and focused on usability. Is it as good as it sounds? There’s only one way to know – stay tuned for our Ubergizmo Review.
The Galaxy S26 series follows the same refresh pattern of past years: small tweaks to an established formula. That may make the new Galaxy S26, S26+, and S26 Ultra, which are available for preorder today, Feb. 25, and at retail starting on Mar. 11, sound a bit tame, but that’s just how these annual phone launches are now. That doesn’t mean there’s nothing to get excited about. Specifically, the Galaxy S26 Ultra has a new display feature called “Privacy Screen” that I want every other phone to copy.
Let’s skip right to the most notable changes first. Just like Apple did with the iPhone 17 Pros, Samsung has ditched titanium for aluminum. Apple justified the metal frame downgrade as a way to improve the iPhone 17 Pro’s thermals, allowing heat to disperse more evenly across the phone’s backside with the aid of a new vapor chamber for better cooling, which in turn prevents performance throttling. In the S26 Ultra’s case, the aluminum means a lighter device at 214g versus the S25 Ultra’s 233g.
I have not touched any of the Galaxy S26 phones in person—I couldn’t make it to Unpacked because of the blizzard that hit the U.S. Northeast just before the event—but my colleague, Adriano Contreras, who took all of the photos in this article, did, and he told me they definitely feel lighter, though no less solid in the hand.
The regular S26 and 26+ both stick with aluminum frames. This time around, the S26 Ultra also has the same rounded corner radii as the other S26 models. Altogether, Samsung says the less boxy design on the S26 Ultra gives the whole S26 lineup a more unified design.
Beyond other small tweaks like an updated camera island that resembles the one found on the Galaxy Z Fold 7 and S25 Edge, the S26 series is just another touchscreen slab. If you’re looking for a less traditional form factor, consider Samsung’s foldables like the Z Fold 7 or the Z Flip 7.
The biggest selling point the S26 Ultra has going for it is its new “Privacy Display.” This is a pixel-level display technology that lets you darken the sides or top of the screen to prevent others from seeing your content. It’s sort of like one of those privacy screen protectors that you can apply on top of your phone’s screen, except it’s built into the S26 Ultra.
The Privacy Display feature is also more than just a built-in privacy screen protector. It can also obscure notifications, passwords, PIN codes, and pattern unlocks to safeguard them from potential peepers. Again, I have not seen or tried the Privacy Display feature for myself, but Adriano tells me that it’s “impressive.” In his own words: “When I saw it only blur a text notification bubble up top, that’s when I said out loud, ‘sold!’”
Sounds really neat. The only downside is that the Privacy Display feature is exclusive to the S26 Ultra; the S26 and S26+ do not have it.
Faster performance, faster charging, and slightly improved cameras
As I said, the S26 series is mostly a minor hardware refresh. Almost everything is the same compared to the S25 series. The S26 Ultra has the same 6.9-inch screen; the S26+ has the same 6.7-inch display; the S26 screen is slightly larger at 6.3 inches versus the S25’s 6.2 inches, though it retains the same previous resolution.
All three S26 phones are powered by Qualcomm’s latest Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 for Galaxy chip. This is a customized version of the regular Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chip that other phone makers have access to. Samsung says you can expect a CPU that’s up to 19% faster, a GPU that’s up to 24% faster, and an NPU (neural processing unit for AI and machine learning) that’s up to 39% faster. Combined with a redesigned vapor chamber that Samsung claims dissipates more heat, the phones should throttle less, too.
The battery capacities for all three S26 phones are identical to their predecessors: 4,300mAh on the S26, 4,900 on the S26+, and 5,000mAh on the S26 Ultra. The only difference is in charging speeds on the S26 Ultra, which can now fast wire charge at up to 60W and fast wireless charge at up to 25W. The regular S26 supports fast wired charging at up to 25W; the S26+ at up to 45W. For fast wireless charging, the S26 supports up to 15W and the S26+ up to 20W. To my disappointment, none of the S26 phones have built-in magnetic wireless charging at all. Even Google added magnetic wireless charging (Pixelsnap) to its Pixel 10 series (except the new Pixel 10a). Samsung’s defense is that all of its official S26 cases come with built-in magnets and that adding them would have made the phones thicker. I still think that Samsung shouldn’t have cheaped out here, especially on the S26 Ultra.
As for the cameras on the S26, S26+, and S26 Ultra—they’re basically the same as before, too. The S26 and S26+ have a triple-lens camera system made up of a 50-megapixel f/1.8 wide, a 12-megapixel f/2.2 ultrawide, and a 10-megapixel f/2.4 3x optical telephoto zoom. The S26 Ultra has a quad-lens camera system comprised of a 200-megapixel f/1.4 wide, 50-megapixel f/1.9 ultrawide, 10-megapixel f/2.4 3x optical telephoto zoom, and a 50-megapixel f/2.9 5x optical telephoto zoom (with 10x optical-quality zoom). Eagle-eyed tech nerds will notice that the apertures on all four of the S26 Ultra cameras are larger (smaller f-stop number). Samsung says the 200-megapixel shooter is 40% brighter and the 50-megapixel tele is 37% brighter, which means low-light shots should look a little better. The company is also highlighting improvements to its “Nightography” video recording.
All of the S26 phones have a 12-megapixel f/2.2 selfie camera. Samsung says it’s made improvements to exposing skin tones. No square-shaped image sensor to let you hold the S26 phones in portrait mode to shoot horizontal selfies like you can with the Center Stage camera on the iPhone 17 series and iPhone Air.
I expected Samsung to add more Galaxy AI features, but I think it may have gone too far this time. Unlike previous years, when Samsung sprinkled a few new AI features into its phones to get users familiar with what’s possible with the technology, the S26 phones feel like they have too many Galaxy AI features—so many that it might be hard to remember them all.
Samsung truly stuffed the S26 phones with AI everywhere. “Now Nudge” works like the Pixel 10’s “Magic Cue” feature, proactively looking at your data and suggesting tasks like adding event details to a calendar, setting reminders, or sharing images from a specific day if you mention it in a text message. The “Now Brief” hub can now surface more timely reminders and events, pulling from incoming notifications. An “Automated app action” feature can let you enter a prompt like “call me an Uber to Seoul Station,” and the AI will launch the app and tap through the various buttons, and then ask for your final payment confirmation. This is Samsung’s take on agentic computing, where an AI does everything for you; it’s also limited to Uber at launch.
AI can now sort your screenshots into eight categories (social media, coupons, boarding passes, events, locations, barcodes, QR codes, and chats) to make it easier to find stuff later. “Circle to Search” can now identify multiple pieces of clothing in images of an outfit, which…. Samsung says will make it easier to shop for those pieces.
There’s an improved Photo Assist feature that lets you describe changes you want to make to a photo; it’s similar to the Pixel’s “Help me edit” feature that uses Gemini to make photo edits. A “Creative Studio” lets you use a prompt to create images for wallpapers and stickers—I admit, creating stickers seems kind of fun. “Document Scan” is a beefed-up document scanner with settings to automatically remove fingers, creases, or page folds, and then compile the scanned pages into a single PDF. The “Audio Eraser” feature that uses AI to erase background noise from videos now works in select third-party apps like YouTube and Instagram.
Samsung is also including “Call Screening,” which uses Galaxy AI to answer calls from unknown numbers and then transcribe them, and “Scam Detection,” which uses AI to identify potential scam callers.
And if you thought Bixby was dead—it’s not. It’s been rebooted as an “Intelligent Device Agent” that can better understand natural language when it comes to stuff like getting help with your device settings. Samsung also says it’s integrated Perplexity to aid with expanded prompts when you might need an answer for a prompt that requires wider knowledge from the internet.
Altogether, it’s a lot of AI to take in. How useful any of these features will be will come down to the individual. Tech companies are telling us how useful AI this and that will be in automating time-consuming tasks, but on phones, I’ve yet to fully trust them. Even on the Pixel 10 Pro, which I’m still dailying, I still find myself ignoring most of the Gemini features.
All three S26 phones will be available in four colors: Cobalt Violet, sky blue, black, and white. There will be two online-exclusive colors: Silver Shadow and Pink Gold.
But the thing that likely won’t sit well with consumers is the $100 price hike for the Galaxy S26 and S26+, which now start at $899.99 and $1,099.99, respectively, for 12GB of RAM and 256GB of storage. The S26 Ultra starts at the same as $1,299.99 as the S25 Ultra did for the same 12GB of RAM and 256GB of storage.
Samsung didn’t provide any specific reason for the price hike, but if I were to guess, it probably has to do with the RAM and storage shortage caused by AI data center hoarding, which has led to the skyrocketing of almost all consumer electronics that use the components. Or, maybe it’s tariffs. Whatever the reason for the price increase, it sucks.
Hisense has announced a major UK milestone, surpassing one million sales of its televisions equipped with subscription-free streaming service Freely.
The manufacturer claims this achievement cements its position as a dominant force in the British market, where it recently became the second-largest TV brand by volume.
As the first manufacturer to partner with Freely in 2024, Hisense has integrated the service across its entire 4K lineup. The platform has proved a significant draw for consumers looking to move away from traditional infrastructure, offering over 60 live channels and 75,000 hours of on-demand content from the BBC, ITV, Channel 4, and Channel 5 without the need for a satellite dish or aerial.
“Our partnership with Freely has played a key role in ensuring our range meets the needs of today’s consumers,” said Howard Grindrod, Vice President at Hisense UK. He noted that the milestone comes at a pivotal time as the brand prepares for a massive summer of sports, bolstered by its status as an Official Sponsor of the FIFA World Cup 26.
The sales success also coincides with Hisense’s continued push into high-end display tech. The company recently became the first to bring RGB MiniLED technology to the UK market. Unlike standard displays, this system uses independently controlled red, green, and blue diodes to generate colour at the source.
Jonathan Thompson, CEO of Everyone TV – the organization behind Freely – hailed the collaboration as a victory for British broadcasting. He noted that growth is accelerating as viewers discover the simplicity of Wi-Fi-only television.
With the 2026 World Cup set to be streamed live on the platform, both partners expect the momentum to continue as many households now favour “all-in-one” streaming solutions over traditional broadcast methods.
