Since Amazon announced plans for a generative AI version of Alexa, we were concerned about user privacy. With Alexa+ rolling out to Amazon Echo devices in the coming weeks, we’re getting a clearer view of the privacy concessions people will have to make to maximize usage of the AI voice assistant and avoid bricking functionality…
Home security systems differ in ways you can’t see, such as the reliability of their sensors and their tech support services. These differences came to light in our first-ever survey on home security systems owned by more than 11,000 Consumer Reports members. We used those results to create our first home security system satisfaction ratings….
You can digitally search for tags, genres, and locations at the top, and I recommend you do so if you’re looking for something specific. It can be helpful if you are trying to buy something from your home town, for example. Screenshot courtesy of Wired As with anything collectible, you can find good deals (and…
10. Using Magic Eraser Sponges on Stainless Steel When you realize how well a magic eraser sponge handles a variety of surfaces, like walls, baseboards, bathroom tile, and even sneakers, it’s tempting to try and put it to work on every surface that’s annoying to clean. Stainless steel dishwashers and fridges, we’re looking at you….
Other Alexa (or Alexa Compatible) Speakers Amazon Echo Pop for $40: The Echo Pop (7/10, WIRED Recommends) is a perfectly fine little speaker, and the cutest one in Amazon’s lineup. Does it have great sound? No. It’s fine enough for background tunes or if you’re limited to a dorm room, but you’ll get much better…
If you have an iPhone, AirPods, and an Apple Watch, congrats! You have the holy trinity of Apple products. But keeping all these gadgets powered up can be annoying, since they all have individual cables and proprietary charging solutions. Why deal with all that hassle when the best 3-in-1 Apple charging stations can accommodate everything?…
Unpacking a new console is always an exciting moment, which is often followed by realizing you don’t have a crucial piece you need to get playing. Whether that’s a second controller for your younger sibling, a proper audio setup, or a new racing wheel, we’ve got our favorite bits and bobs to enhance your Xbox…
There are gifts for men. And then there are manly men gifts. Countless gift guides for the men in your life offer up the same neckties and tool sets and tasteful leather belts. And don’t get us wrong: We’re classy people, too. We like only the finest T-shirt a Savile Row tailor recommends, and anything…
Chronic pain goes beyond the sensory experience of “how much does it hurt and where does it hurt?” says Steven P. Cohen, chair of anesthesiology and vice chair of research and pain medicine at the Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine in Chicago. Our thoughts, emotions, and behavior can significantly affect the physical sensation of…
Mercedes says the CLA was designed from the beginning to be an electric vehicle. The all-electric CLA with EQ Technology goes on sale first, and we know the most about it so far. It’s an all-electric design that comes with both a J1772 charging port for Level 2 charging and a NACS port for DC…