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The Key Takeaway: These 20 Target Products Are Set to Enhance Your Life in 2025

2025-04-04 04:40:57 By Robert Smith

2025 is the year for your little enhancements.

1. An Unbrush detangling hair brush that has dual rows of long and short bristles designed to undo the knots in your or your kiddo's hair without pain or tugging. It even works on both wet and dry hair!

2. A 12" cast-iron skillet for anyone who has promised themselves that 2025 is the year they seriously learn to cook. The skillet can be used on the stove, in the oven, or on a campfire or grill — plus, it's affordable, so it's great for beginners who are still learning the basics (or aren't totally sure they want to give up that Grubhub life for the world of home cooking).

3. A dry-erase calendar that will be a true game changer for freelancers or folks working with lots of complex deadlines — there's something about seeing it all laid out on your wall, instead of a day-by-day breakdown on your computer or phone, that just makes planning way easier. Plus, this one has a bottom corkboard strip, so you can tack up any bills, tickets, or dry cleaning receipts you need to keep track of.

4. A pack of seven Disney Princess-themed Makeup Eraser pads, because all the hype is TRUE! Just wet these small cloths and they'll eliminate all traces of makeup, without leaving a goopy residue like many gel removers, or creating a lot of waste like disposable wipes. I use these, and they cut through red matte lipstick and heavy layers of mascara like buttah.

MakeUp Eraser 7-Day Set featuring illustrations of Disney princesses: Ariel, Tiana, Snow White, Cinderella, Belle, Pocahontas, Jasmine

5. An ultrasonic skin-scrubbing spatula that helps deep clean with high frequency vibrations that can lift blackheads, whiteheads, and grime out of your skin, and improve product absorption.

Person using an electric facial exfoliating tool on their cheek, demonstrating skincare routine

6. A portable Bluetooth Polaroid printer, because in just about 60 seconds, it will turn your phone photos into stickers. Stickers of you and your friends, whenever you want! We live in a time of wonders!

Polaroid printer printing a photo of a person with dyed hair blowing a bubble, wearing a striped sweater

7. A Hatch Restore 2 sleep machine that isn't just a sunrise alarm clock — it's also a nightlight and a white noise machine, so it can help improve every single part of your sleep routine.

Semi-circular speaker and smartphone on a wooden table; phone displays an app with color swatches

8. A Kitsch satin pillowcase, because satin pillowcases can help you cut down on hair frizz and breakage, especially if you have color-treated or chemically damaged hair. Plus, satin pillowcases are less likely to make you wake up with weird creases on your face than cotton ones.

Person smiling, sitting in bed while hugging a satin pillow, next to a small plant on a bedside table

9. A cold brew coffee maker that can whip up a quart of java, in an airtight container that keeps it fresh for up to two weeks. (Also, if you take two whole weeks to drink just a quart of coffee...please, teach me your caffeine-minimalist ways.)

Person pouring coffee into a blue Takeya thermos in a kitchen setting with a towel and a container in the background

10. A seven-piece set of packing cubes, so that the next time you travel, you can actually make the most of your space — a biggie, now that airlines are charging approximately $100,000 for every checked bag.

Seven organized packing cubes with clothes and shoes, neatly arranged, showcasing efficient travel packing

11. An adorable puppy spoon-holder that works equally well sitting on the counter or clipped to a pot's edge. Now that deserves a treat and a belly rub.

Dog-shaped spoon holder with a wooden spoon on a kitchen counter, surrounded by corn, rice, and parsnips

12. A rotating bathroom organizer so you can finally clean up that cluttered mess of bottles that are teetering ever-so-unsteadily on the edge of your counter.

Bathroom vanity with a marble counter, gold-accented organizer holding skincare products, and a potted plant nearby

13. A retro-chic, Bluetooth-compatible AM/FM radio and speaker, because you shouldn't have to mess up your perfect vintage home aesthetic just because you want to play some music while you do dishes.

Vintage-style tabletop radio with a mesh speaker front, tuning dial, and three control knobs

14. A clip-on reading light with a flexible neck and four brightness settings, so you can stay up reading that mystery novel long after your partner has gone to sleep (also, not to spoil, but: the neighbor totally did it).

Book clip-on reading light attached to an open book, illuminating the pages

15. An Ember smart mug that will keep your coffee or tea warm no matter how long it takes you to drink it. Using the connected app, you can keep your drink at your preferred temperature for two hours — or even longer if you place it on the included coaster.

A mug of coffee with latte art sits next to a tray with three croissants

16. A boucle storage ottoman with a tray top, so you can spiff up your living room, hide your extra throws and pillows, and have a place to set down your after-work cocktail all at once.

Stylish living room with a white sectional sofa, assorted pillows, and a round coffee table topped with a potted plant and a glass. Art on grey wall

17. A 2-quart air fryer that's perfect for folks who live on their own or anyone who is looking for a way to get their snacks perfectly crisp.

A hand pours batter into a cake pan next to an air fryer on a kitchen counter with eggs, flour, and berries

18. A car backseat organizer, because if your 2025 resolution is to finally get a handle on all the umbrellas, tissue boxes, water bottles, tote bags, and snacks floating around your back seat...the solution has arrived. Plus, if you have any little backseat passengers, the organizer has a spot to hold a tablet.

Car seat organizer with tablet, sunglasses, pens, headphones, water bottle, and snacks neatly stored in pockets

19. An "Introvert" scented candle to fill your home with the scent of vanilla while you experience JOMO (joy of missing out).

Lit candle labeled "Introvert" on a table, surrounded by minimal decor including a plant and woven chair

20. A Nintendo Switch, because it's great for family together time...or alone time. Basically, any time you want to play some fun games.

Two kids are happily playing on handheld gaming consoles in the backseat of a car. An adult is smiling in the background

Highly Recommended

Ex-Wheel of Fortune players reveal tips for success: ‘Focus on Vanna, ignore Ryan’

View pictures in App save up to 80% data. A former contestant from Wheel of Fortune advises that players should avoid making eye contact with Ryan while participating in the game. Photo credit: ©ImageCollect.com/Xavier Collin/Image Press Agency Discovering that you've been selected to participate in Wheel of Fortune is thrilling news to hear. Such was the case for a Wheel of Fortune fan who received their confirmation email this month. The potential contestant kicked off a discussion on Reddit, sharing their excitement about being approved and reaching out to past participants for tips and guidance before their upcoming appearance. The announcement, titled “Exciting News: I’m Going to Be on the Show!” stated, “I just received my confirmation email—I'm set to appear on Wheel of Fortune! Filming is scheduled for the end of this month!” "I'm a big fan of the show and love watching it! I'm really excited about it, but I have to admit I'm feeling a bit anxious. Do you have any tips or advice for me? I appreciate it!" the Reddit user shared. Numerous former contestants of Wheel of Fortune shared their thoughts and were eager to provide helpful tips. Previous contestants from Wheel of Fortune share their tips and tricks with a newcomer. View pictures in App save up to 80% data. An aspiring contestant on Wheel of Fortune sought guidance from experienced players. Image credit: u/sophaloafofbread1/Reddit A Reddit user pointed out to the original poster that the puzzles in the "What Are You Doing?" section contain the letters I, N, and G. They advised against selecting I or G as two of their vowel or consonant choices to avoid "wasting" two of their four selections. View pictures in App save up to 80% data. An ex-competitor offers some tips. Image source: u/sophaloafofbread1/Reddit Many others suggested getting ready by using various word puzzle apps and tackling crossword puzzles before their important day. Several past contestants mentioned that the Wheel of Fortune app significantly assisted them in preparing for their time on the show. View pictures in App save up to 80% data. Additional insights from ex-players. Image credit: u/sophaloafofbread1/Reddit u/WheelWatcher101 offered a wealth of advice and provided some fascinating perspectives for those just starting out. One recommendation was to focus on buzzing in during toss-up questions, commit to memory a compilation of the most frequently seen 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, and 7 letter words found in unsolved bonus puzzles, and to "tune out" competitors. View pictures in App save up to 80% data. A Wheel enthusiast shared a collection of helpful tips. Photo credit: u/sophaloafofbread1/Reddit u/smashmouthftball also provided an extensive list of recommendations. One of their suggestions was to give the wheel a strong spin. This technique provides extra time for contemplation while the wheel keeps turning. Here’s why a former contestant recommends to ‘focus on’ Vanna and ‘avoid looking at’ Ryan Seacrest. A former Wheel of Fortune player suggested watching Vanna White and not spinning the wheel until she returns to the side of the puzzle board, which leaves players with five seconds to make a move. They also suggested not looking at host Ryan Seacrest, theorizing that listening to him and focusing on the puzzle board instead would be advantageous. View pictures in App save up to 80% data. Additional helpful Wheel tips sourced from Reddit. Photo credit: u/sophaloafofbread1/Reddit Another recommendation was to frequently purchase vowels, along with the advice to solve puzzles immediately when the answer became clear and to pay attention to producers who are said to "shout hints at you and offer assistance." In addition to the strategic suggestions shared in the Reddit thread, numerous commenters concurred that this is a unique opportunity that may not come around again, so make the most of it and enjoy yourself. As u/guyinmi pointed out, "Don’t forget to enjoy yourself... while the money is great, make sure to add some flair; your loved ones will appreciate it."

OnePlus 13 vs. Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra: Which one suits your needs better?

View pictures in App save up to 80% data. OnePlus 13 The OnePlus 13 represents the brand's newest flagship smartphone, featuring a 120Hz AMOLED screen, the powerful Snapdragon 8 Elite processor, a 50MP camera setup, ample RAM and storage options, and an impressive 6,000mAh battery. In short, it embodies everything you would expect from a high-end smartphone in 2025. Pros IP69 resistance Snapdragon 8 Elite chip 16GB of RAM View pictures in App save up to 80% data. Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra $1300 $1050 Save $250 The Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra represents the pinnacle of the brand's smartphone offerings, featuring a stunning 120Hz AMOLED screen, 12GB of RAM, and storage options reaching up to 1TB. It boasts an exceptional camera setup and is powered by a robust 5,000mAh battery. If you're in the market for a new phone, this model is certainly one of the best options available. Pros Great AI features Premium feel and design Excellent zoom lens Ready for a new smartphone? If so, an iPhone is always worth consideration, but top Android devices like the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra and OnePlus 13 are serious contenders. Deciding on something can be tough though, so which is the better overall phone? Fortunately, we’re ready to assist you with the definitive comparison between the Galaxy S24 Ultra and the OnePlus 13. Cost, availability, and specifications Two high-end smartphones Currently, you can purchase a OnePlus 13, with two available configurations: a 16GB RAM/512GB storage version priced at $1000, and a 12GB RAM/256GB storage version available for $900. Fortunately, there's a special promotion at the moment that allows you to snag the higher-end model for only $900. In a similar vein, the Galaxy S24 Ultra can be purchased from your preferred retailer, offering three distinct storage options: 256GB, 512GB, or 1TB. The manufacturer's suggested retail prices are $1300, $1420, and $1660 respectively; however, currently, it's not hard to find these models at significantly reduced prices. OnePlus 13 Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra SoC Snapdragon 8 Elite Mobile Platform Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 for Galaxy Display 6.82 inches, 3168x1440, 1-120Hz 6.8-inch Quad HD+ Dynamic AMOLED 2X, 120Hz refresh rate, 501 PPI, 2,600 nits peak brightness RAM 12GB/16GB LPDDR5X 12GB Storage 256GB/512GB UFS 4.0 256GB, 512GB, 1TB Rear camera 50MP 1/1.4" f/1.6, 50MP 1/1.95" f/2.65, 50MP 1/2.75" f/2.05 200MP main (f/1.7), 12MP ultrawide (f/2.2), 10MP telephoto (f/2.4), 50MP periscope telephoto (f/3.4) Front camera 32MP 1/2.74" f/2.45 12MP wide (f/2.2) Battery 6,000mAh 5,000mAh Charge speed 80W Supervooc, 50W Airvooc 45W wired, 15W wireless, 4.5W reverse wireless Connectivity Sub-6 5G, Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.4 5G, 4G LTE, Wi-Fi 6E/7, Bluetooth 5.3 Dimensions 162.9x76.5x8.9mm 6.39x3.11x0.34 inches (162.3x79x8.6mm) Weight 210g 8.22 ounces IP Rating IP68, IP69 IP68 Colors Arctic Dawn, Midnight Ocean, Black Eclipse Titanium Black, Titanium Gray, Titanium Violet, Titanium Yellow Operating System OxygenOS 15 Android 14, One UI 6.1 Price $899 / $999 Starting at $1,299 2:27 View pictures in App save up to 80% data. Connected The Galaxy S24 Ultra boasts enhanced AI capabilities, a slightly upgraded camera system, and a refined design, establishing it as the ultimate all-in-one smartphone. Create and showcase Various smartphones, various aesthetics. There are certainly contrasting designs at work here. The OnePlus 13 features a smooth, curved aesthetic with its rounded edges and circular elements, while the Galaxy S24 Ultra adopts a more angular, boxy appearance with defined edges and a robust, industrial vibe. Nevertheless, both devices exude a sense of premium quality and craftsmanship. When comparing weight and size, the OnePlus 13 is slightly lighter at 7.4 oz compared to 8.22 oz. However, their overall dimensions are quite similar. It's worth noting that neither of these phones is among the smallest or lightest options available, so consider this if you're looking for a more compact device. When it comes to the display, both devices feature 120Hz AMOLED screens with nearly identical resolutions. Our evaluations of each revealed that we were quite taken with the quality of the displays, appreciating their deep contrast, vivid colors, and outstanding brightness. In short, there's not much to criticize. In summary, the OnePlus is more lightweight, and its curved design tends to offer a more comfortable grip compared to the sharper edges of the Galaxy. Additionally, the OnePlus boasts an IP69 rating, which the Galaxy lacks, and its peak brightness surpasses that of the Galaxy, giving it a slight edge in this aspect. Champion: OnePlus 13 Equipment and efficiency An upgraded Snapdragon processor on the OnePlus View pictures in App save up to 80% data. It's important to note several significant hardware distinctions. To begin with, the S24 Ultra is equipped with a Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor, while the OnePlus 13 features a Snapdragon 8 Elite. The Elite variant offers enhanced core clock speeds and improved efficiency, resulting in a noticeable increase in processing power. Additionally, the OnePlus 13 can be configured with up to 16GB of RAM, whereas the S24 Ultra is limited to a maximum of 12GB. On the storage front, the S24 Ultra provides an option for 1TB, compared to the OnePlus 13's maximum of 512GB. Both smartphones come equipped with AI functionalities. The OnePlus offers well-known AI capabilities such as AI Unblur, AI Detail Boost, and AI Notes, which we found to be practical, though not revolutionary. On the other hand, the Galaxy features comparable technology but takes it a step further with advanced generative AI tools, including superior photo editing that surpasses the Detail Boost feature. While the additional storage and AI capabilities of the Galaxy are impressive, the superior RAM and enhanced processing power of the OnePlus 13 stand out in our evaluation. This makes it our preferred choice for hardware and performance, even if the difference isn't extremely significant. Champion: OnePlus 13 Camera Samsung continues to leave a lasting impression. View pictures in App save up to 80% data. In 2025, flagship smartphone cameras have become a major focus, and these devices truly deliver impressive performance. With the OnePlus 13, you're looking at a trio of 50MP sensors in its primary array, while you're also getting a 32MP selfie camera. In our review of the OnePlus 13, we had a solid experience with its cameras, particularly during daytime, but its low-light performance didn't wow us, especially when capturing motion. Not a terrible performance by any means, but it wasn't best-in-class. For the Galaxy S24 Ultra, there's a beefy 200MP main sensor, 15MP UW sensor, 10MP telephoto sensor, and 50MP periscope telescope sensor, in addition to a 12MP selfie cam. In our Galaxy S24 Ultra review, we called it "the most capable camera phone in North America" at the time, noting it had no major shortcomings compared to any other phone from a brand with a major presence there. If you're only looking to take a few casual photos, the OnePlus 13 will serve you well. However, if you have ambitions of becoming a serious photographer, we believe the Galaxy S24 Ultra would be a superior choice. Champion: Galaxy S24 Ultra Battery longevity No reasons to grumble. View pictures in App save up to 80% data. We have evaluated both of these smartphones, so the battery performance is well understood. The news is positive on this front as well: both smartphones easily manage to last a full day on a single charge. The OnePlus features a slightly larger battery, which could give it an advantage in certain situations, but we experienced no issues with either device. Naturally, if you're gaming at high framerates continuously, your experience may differ, but for the average user, running out of battery shouldn't be a concern. Regardless of which phone you choose, you can expect solid battery performance. Result: Draw Champion of the competition: OnePlus 13 A narrow escape With its sleek design, advanced chip technology, ample RAM, and a competitive price, the OnePlus 13 takes the top spot in our rankings, though the competition is quite fierce. It's important to remember that the S25 series is just about to be released as of this writing. If you're eager to invest more than $1000 in a smartphone, it might be wise to hold off and see what Samsung has in store. However, if you're looking for a great option right now, the OnePlus 13 stands out as an excellent pick. Champion OnePlus 13 $900 $1000 Save $100 The OnePlus 13 represents the brand's newest flagship smartphone, featuring a 120Hz AMOLED screen, the powerful Snapdragon 8 Elite processor, a 50MP camera setup, ample RAM and storage options, and an impressive 6,000mAh battery. In short, it embodies everything you would expect from a high-end smartphone in 2025. Second place Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra $1300 $1050 Save $250 The Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra represents the pinnacle of the brand's smartphone offerings, featuring a stunning 120Hz AMOLED screen, 12GB of RAM, and storage options reaching up to 1TB. It boasts an exceptional camera setup and is powered by a robust 5,000mAh battery. If you're in the market for a new phone, this model is certainly one of the best options available.

"I'm puzzled by your bewilderment": A server asks for time off, but there's a catch.

"Effective managers ensure success." View pictures in App save up to 80% data. @gangsta_gramps/TikTok (授权) Everyone wants to go home for the holidays—your servers at restaurants included. However, a debate is stirring up online regarding the flexibility servers should have since holidays are the busiest time of the year for the service industry. This manager, @gangsta_gramps, gives their perspective. Guidelines are guidelines. @Gangsta_gramps mentioned feeling puzzled when the server inquired about taking time off. The server observed that Fridays and Saturdays were marked as unavailable in the calendar, and vacation requests for those days were prohibited. When the server expressed their bewilderment to @gangsta_gramps, their manager, @gangsta_gramps, found it surprising that the server was confused in the first place. “They stated, ‘Requests for time off during the holidays are not allowed. It’s clearly outlined in the policy handbook. This is part of the agreement you accepted and what we discussed during orientation. You acknowledged it at that time. … We operate while others take time off. … When others are enjoying their vacations, we’re here to assist them.’” This video has garnered 339,500 views and received more than 7,000 likes. Is this policy common for servers? Restaurant time off request policies can vary from restaurant to restaurant. According to an article on OpenTable, some restaurants check in with employees at the beginning of the year and see which holidays they want off. A scheduling manager at Maialino and Marta, a Manhattan-based restaurant, shared, “We manage to meet their requests 99% of the time. Although it requires additional effort on my part, it’s definitely worthwhile.” It’s evident that @gangsta_gramps doesn’t adhere to this philosophy when it comes to scheduling their staff. That said, they have mentioned they’re open to the idea of this server arranging coverage for their shifts. Nonetheless, if the server fails to secure coverage and doesn’t report for duty, it will be viewed as job abandonment, which could lead to termination. The Daily Dot has previously reported on the ups and downs of working in the restaurant industry. For example, this previous article is about servers gauging how customers will tip and how servers navigate the service they give you based on that prediction. @gangsta_gramps #fyp #restaurant #viralvideo #server ♬ original sound – Gangsta_Gramps How do audiences feel about it? While a portion of the audience supports @gangsta_gramps, others believe he's being somewhat overly critical. "Effective managers ensure success," remarks one commenter. "Great employees leave their positions because of their managers, not the jobs themselves. I'm pleased to see that the comments are on point here!" another person adds. "As a person who has spent their entire career in the service industry, I can confidently say, 'I KNOW you didn't bring that up during orientation, haha,' chimes in another individual." "However, can YOU really leave whenever you please?" another remark asks. "Having spent many years in the industry, I understand the challenges, but I’ve yet to encounter a manager who wasn't open to finding solutions and strategizing for staffing concerns during the holiday season," another individual remarks. The Daily Dot has contacted @gangsta_gramps for a response through TikTok's direct messaging and via email.

The top 7 projectors showcased at CES 2025

The year 2025 marks the emergence of 4K projectors as a major trend. View pictures in App save up to 80% data. (Image source: Xgimi) CES 2025 is winding down, but the innovative magic it heralds will ring true throughout the year, and there's no better place to witness these tech advancements than in the many awesome projectors soon to hit shelves. It's taken quite a while for projectors to reach the mainstream, and they are still limping on in the face of ever-advancing displays. When a good 4K projector often comes in at $3,000 plus, it proves rather difficult to recommend against any of the best OLED TVs. But in 2025, several projectors are inviting exciting upgrades to give the conventional TV market a run for its money — even as TVs are getting bigger and bigger. From Hisense to Formovie, there's a lot to look forward to this year. Let's see just what these next-gen projectors have in store for 2025. LG PF600U 三合一投影仪 View pictures in App save up to 80% data. (Photo source: LG) Have you ever thought to yourself, "I wish my lamp doubled as a 1080p projector"? Well, LG thought of one even better and decided not only to make a dual projector-lamp combo, but also give it a beefy Bluetooth speaker, as well. Meet the LG PF600U 三合一投影仪, the answer to the age-old question: Why the heck not? Part mood lamp — hitting five levels of brightness on nine different colors — and part Bluetooth speaker, corralling a set of stereo speakers with passive radiators, this 1080p projector has everything you need baked into it. With its 110-degree tilting head, the LG PF600U makes its dual-sided nature as a projector and lamp all the more streamlined. Plus, webOS baked-in means you have access to all of your favorite content across the best streaming services. Absolutely, while it may reach just 300 ANSI lumens as stated by LG, can you name any other lamp that provides a projected screen size between 30 and 120 inches? Formovie Cinema Elite View pictures in App save up to 80% data. (Image source: Formovie) Following nearly three years of silence, Formovie is finally bringing its Theater back in a whole new advanced chassis. Called the Formovie Cinema Elite, this refresh on the 2022 4K UST projector is yet another stunning entry into the market. It offers improved brightness, up from 1800 to 2200 ISO lumens, with Google TV fully baked into the system. The original Formovie Theater ran on Android TV 11, which doesn't support Netflix (among other things), so the introduction of Google TV brings a world of change to this platform. And a pair of second-generation Bowers & Wilkins speakers brings that oomph where it counts most. Despite launching in 2022, the original Formovie Theater was one of my favorite gadgets of 2023 and I still occasionally use it when not testing new TVs. Like most projectors, the new and improved Theater Premium sports an exceptionally high price tag at $2,999, but at least it's launching $500 cheaper than its predecessor. Xgimi Ascend View pictures in App save up to 80% data. (Image source: Xgimi) Xgimi's Ascend is a comprehensive solution that merges a rolling Ambient Light Rejecting (ALR) screen with the Aura 2 projector, creating one of the most advanced projection systems available today. For those unfamiliar with ALR screens, they are designed to improve image quality dramatically when paired with a projector, effectively reducing glare issues when viewing in bright, sunlit spaces. The Xgimi Ascend goes beyond being merely a floor-mounted ALR screen; it boasts a built-in Harman Kardon speaker system that delivers cinema-quality sound, all while helping to streamline your entertainment setup. Pricing details are still under wraps, but it's safe to say that the Ascend won't be budget-friendly—especially considering that you may need to buy an Aura 2 or a compatible UST projector separately. Hisense L9Q View pictures in App save up to 80% data. (Image source: Hisense) Taking just one look at the Hisense L9Q and you can already tell this thing belongs in a museum. It's crafted to look as impressionable as it is full of awesome surprises, like up to a 150-inch screen size at an ANSI-rated 5,000 lumens of brightness. That's nothing to scoff at, though pricing on the Hisense L9Q will definitely make or break it. One thing that stands out on this UST projector is a purported 110% coverage of the BT.2020 color gamut, with many of the best TVs barely ever hitting past 80%. But, of course, Hisense has shoved a 6.2.2 surround sound system into this beauty of a projector, the first of its kind, one that supports both DTS Virtual X and Dolby Atmos. While it might have Google TV, that's not even the most awesome part. Hisense has gifted the L9Q an ATSC 3.0 tuner, allowing you access to NextGen TV with 4K broadcasts. Very few 2024 TVs or even 2025 TVs will have this spec, making the L9Q a projector worth looking forward to — though, unfortunately, we don't have an official release date yet Valerion VisionMaster Pro View pictures in App save up to 80% data. (Image source: Valerion) Have you ever come across Valerion? I hadn’t either until recently. This company is actually a sibling to AWOL Projector and focuses exclusively on creating long-throw models, such as their latest release, the VisionMaster Max. This projector packs quite a punch, particularly when compared to several other options on this list. It can project a stunning 4K image up to 300 inches and boasts a brightness rating of 3,000 ISO lumens. What truly distinguishes the VisionMaster Max is its Enhanced Black Level (EBL) technology, designed to enhance the depth of darker scenes. Additionally, it offers a range of gaming features, including an impressive input latency of under 4ms at 1080p and 240Hz, a rarity among high-end projectors. The VisionMaster Max is packed with a range of smart home capabilities, enhanced by its impressive 4GB of RAM and 128GB of ROM (Read-Only Memory). With Google TV integrated, you gain access to all your preferred streaming services along with a variety of free content, which you’ll likely enjoy the most after investing $3,999 in this projector. JMGO OS2 Ultra View pictures in App save up to 80% data. (Image source: JMGO) With its N1 Ultra sitting at the top of our best projectors lineup, you already know JMGO's next design will be incredibly enticing. But instead of offering a slew of advancements that might drive up the price, JMGO instead set out to deliver one of the smallest UST projectors built on Google TV. Although it is compact, roughly the dimensions of a shoebox, the OS2 Ultra can project a massive 100-inch image in 4K resolution. JMGO asserts that it can achieve approximately 2,500 ISO lumens, a commendable output for a device of its size. Additionally, it boasts a throw ratio of only 0.18:1, requiring less than 6 inches of space to deliver its impressive 100-inch display. The JMGO OS2 Ultra is set to launch in the last quarter of 2025, and details regarding its price are still unavailable. Therefore, you'll need to be patient before you can experience this compact powerhouse of a 4K projector. Dangbei MP1 Max View pictures in App save up to 80% data. (Image courtesy of Dangbei) While I have a personal preference for UST projectors compared to long-throw models, I must say that Dangbei produces some of the finest options in this realm. Their latest offering, the MP1 Max, truly stands out. With an impressive output of around 3100 ISO lumens thanks to its innovative Qualas laser technology, the MP1 Max elevates the projector experience to an entirely new level. Dangbei has equipped the MP1 Max with cutting-edge specifications, featuring an integrated gimbal stand that provides an impressive 130-degree vertical tilt and 360-degree horizontal rotation. Additionally, it boasts a dual speaker system, delivering 12W each within a 750ml sound chamber. The device operates on Google TV; however, it comes with just two HDMI ports, one of which supports eARC. Like many on this list, the Dangbei MP1 Max doesn't have an official price yet, but you can bet it won't be cheaper than any of the best LG TVs.

"I was about to request her manager": A Texas Roadhouse patron receives her bill and discovers a surprising note from the server.

"I'm a server, but I would have requested to speak with her manager." View pictures in App save up to 80% data. @realslimsaydie/TikTok refrina/ShutterStock Tanapoom1545/ShutterStock (授权使用) Tipping is the most debated part of dining out. Whether it’s about how much to leave or how servers approach the topic, the etiquette isn’t always clear, and it can lead to uncomfortable moments for both diners and staff. Saydie Dorton (@realslimsaydie) recently shared a story on TikTok about a bad dining experience at Texas Roadhouse that left her questioning the tipping process entirely. In her video, which has attracted more than 82,000 views as of this writing, she discusses a unique scenario in which she might choose not to leave a tip, despite being a server herself.  What caused the tipping controversy at Texas Roadhouse? “If my server even mentions a tip, they can forget about getting one from me,” Dorton declares. It might be unexpected to hear this from someone working in the service industry, yet she promptly clarifies her viewpoint by sharing a personal anecdote. Dorton remembers visiting Texas Roadhouse with three friends and immediately sensing the server's apparent irritation as soon as they took their seats. “The waitress approached us, and it was clear that she was quite upset about us being in her area,” Dorton recounts. “I suspect it was because she saw us as being relatively young... maybe she thought we were teenagers and wouldn’t leave a good tip. From the very beginning, her demeanor was off, almost demanding, as if to say, ‘What do you want?’” Although Dorton requested bread just a single time and is typically not hard to please, she claims that the service remained subpar. She characterizes it as “terrible,” yet she was still open to leaving a modest tip because, having worked in the industry herself, she recognizes that everyone can have an off day. However, what ultimately drove her to her breaking point was the way the server dealt with the bill.  What factors contributed to the deterioration of the situation? “She... forcefully places the check on the table and writes in all capital letters with a pen, resembling bold text, ‘Tip is NOT INCLUDED,’ and the word ‘NOT’ is emphasized with three underlines,” Dorton recounts. “I was taken aback.” Confronted with the decision of whether to leave a tip, Dorton found herself torn between two choices. “I was unsure if I should skip the tip entirely to validate her assumption that young people don’t tip,” she explains. “On the other hand, if I tipped her 20%, it might encourage her to think that her actions were acceptable.” Ultimately, she walked away with 20% due to her own industry background, but the experience was less than pleasant. "The food was still amazing, though," she remarked.  Is it ever acceptable to forgo a tip due to subpar service? According to the U.S. Department of Labor, tipped workers rely heavily on gratuities to reach the federal minimum wage of $7.25 per hour.  This brings up an important inquiry: Under what circumstances, if any, is it acceptable to lower or refrain from giving a tip, especially for service staff? CNBC consulted etiquette experts Thomas Farley and Elaine Swann on this matter. Swann explained that while 20% is the standard tipping rate, she personally wouldn’t go below 10%, even for bad service. She also emphasized evaluating whether the issue lies with the server or if it could be attributed to management, the kitchen, or other factors beyond the server’s control. When the service is so subpar that not leaving a tip seems justified, Swann recommended discussing the matter with management to make sure your concerns are communicated to the right people. Audiences are in agreement with the server. In the video's comment section, viewers expressed strong disapproval of the server's conduct and felt that Dorton was overly lenient in the conclusion. "One user humorously commented, 'I would have written ‘and it won’t be’ instead.'"  "I always head out to dine with the intention of tipping appropriately," another person mentioned. "However, I will NEVER reward poor service with a tip. I’m happy to give a generous tip for excellent service, and I’ll tip decently for average service, but I will not tip for subpar service." @realslimsaydie I understand both perspectives. It seems like some folks in my comments are assuming that's my intention, lol. ♬ original track – Saydie 💌🪩💫 "Wow, you're so much better than I am," commented another.  The Daily Dot has contacted Dorton and Texas Roadhouse for their response.

The latest COM-HPC modules from congatec, measuring 120 x 160mm, are powered by Intel's Bartlett Lake CPUs. These modules boast impressive specifications, including up to 24 hybrid cores, 128GB of DDR5-4000 memory, and 32 execution units (EUs).

No models featuring only P-Cores are visible. View pictures in App save up to 80% data. (Image source: congatech) Intel's Arrow Lake processors are all the hype these days, but the chipmaker has been rumored to work on a new P-core-only lineup for consumers, codenamed "Bartlett Lake." The first wave of these chips launched at CES, though in a hybrid configuration and exclusively for embedded devices through OEMs. Congatec's latest modules bundle these processors in a 120 x 160mm COM-HPC Client Size C package for high-performance computing in a small form factor. The latest Core 200 Bartlett Lake-S processors feature a hybrid architecture with up to 24 cores, utilizing Alder Lake/Raptor Lake technology. Congatec has introduced new modules available in three configurations: Core 3 201E, Core 5 211E, and Core 7 251E. While there are no significant overhauls, a few enhancements can be found, including ECC memory on certain models. Each module is equipped with four SODIMM slots, supporting a maximum of 128GB of DDR5-4000 memory. These devices are equipped with pre-installed Linux-based operating systems such as ctrlX OS, Ubuntu, and RT-Linux. To accelerate your time to market, congatec enables the integration of custom applications for a nearly effortless transition. Developers can install these COMs onto congatec's mATX (Micro-ATX) carrier boards, resulting in a complete computer system. Additionally, you’ll find Intel's R680E and Q670E chipsets included, along with two 2.5 GbE ports. These modules are specifically designed for applications in medical imaging, networking, edge computing, banking, and more. Swipe left or right to scroll sideways. Processor Cores/Threads P-Cores/E-Cores P-Core Clocks E-Core Clocks Execution Units TDP Core 7 251E 24/32 8 + 16 2.1 GHz Base / 5.6 GHz Boost 1.6 GHz Base / 4.4 GHz Boost 32 65W Core 5 211E 10/16 6 + 4 2.7 GHz Base / 4.9 GHz Boost 2.0 GHz Base / 3.7 GHz Boost 24 65W Core 3 201E 4/8 4 + 0 3.6 GHz Base / 4.8 GHz Boost N/A 24 65W The Core 7 251E features a design akin to the i9-13900, boasting 24 cores and a maximum clock speed of 5.6 GHz. Importantly, all processors maintain a 65W TDP, reflecting their embedded design. Following the Core 7, the Core 5 211E and Core 3 201E come with ten and four cores, respectively. Intel asserts that the Core 7 251E outperforms the i7-14700 (which has 20 cores and a 5.4 GHz boost clock) by approximately 6% in single-core tasks and 8% in multi-core tasks. So where is the P-core-only Bartlett Lake-S? Rumors suggest that these processors are slated for Q3 2025, with the Core 9 SKUs allegedly offering 12 full-fat performance. Similar to their predecessors, these CPUs should employ Raptor Cove P-cores, so there won't be major improvements in IPC or efficiency. However, will LGA1700 achieve the same legacy as AM4? It's difficult to determine, particularly given the uncertainty following Intel's recent issues with degradation. That said, Bartlett Lake-S appears to be an appealing option if you're looking to avoid spending a fortune on a new motherboard and high-speed DDR5 RAM. Furthermore, Intel has been somewhat vague about the lifespan of LGA1851, but we can only hope that the platform will support at least one additional generation.

Elon Musk Takes Aim at Jeff Bezos' Ex-Wife, MacKenzie Scott, Over Her Generous Donations to Liberal Initiatives

View pictures in App save up to 80% data. Tesla and SpaceX CEO Elon Musk criticized Mackenzie Scott, the ex-wife of Amazon founder Jeff Bezos, for donating $19 billion to over 2,000 nonprofits through her Yield Giving organization since 2019. Scott's wealth continues to exceed $30 billion, thanks to the increasing value of her Amazon stock. Musk made a statement on X regarding Scott, noting, “Ex-wives with immense wealth who harbor resentment towards their ex-husbands should be included in the list of ‘Reasons for the decline of Western Civilization.’” Scott directly invests in top-tier nonprofits, empowering them to determine the allocation of their funding. Experts in charitable organizations regard her initiative as one of the finest globally. Sign up for our complimentary weekly newsletter! A week's worth of political updates delivered straight to your inbox.We gather the essential news for you, so you can stay informed without the hassle. Musk and Bezos have been fierce competitors for years, vying for the title of the world's wealthiest individual while also competing with their space exploration ventures. Explore further on: Download the uPolitics mobile app for the most up-to-date political news and videos, completely free! iPhone Android View pictures in App save up to 80% data.

DirectX is introducing a groundbreaking approach to PC gaming through the use of neural rendering technology.

View pictures in App save up to 80% data. Epic Games Microsoft has announced that neural rendering capabilities are coming to DirectX soon. Cooperative vector support, as it’s called, will lead to “cross-platform enablement of neural rendering techniques,” according to Microsoft, and it will usher in “a new paradigm in 3D graphics programming.” It sounds buzzy, but that’s not without reason. This past week, Nvidia announced its new range of RTX 50-series graphics cards, and along with them, it revealed a slate of neural rendering features. Neural shaders, as Nvidia calls them, allow developers to execute small neural networks from shader code, running them on the dedicated AI hardware available on Nvidia, AMD, Intel, and Qualcomm GPUs. Microsoft is saying that it will enable these features on all GPUs, not just those sold by Nvidia, through the DirectX API. Microsoft is achieving this by implementing cooperative vector support, which the company claims “significantly enhances the efficiency of neural rendering methods.” This feature permits matrix multiplication to be executed directly from shader code—the instructions that your GPU runs—enabling neural networks to operate independently of the GPU brand. Currently, all leading GPU manufacturers offer specialized AI hardware, and cooperative vectors will empower developers to leverage that hardware via shader code. Receive your weekly breakdown of the technology that powers PC gaming. Cross-vendor support for neural shaders is a big deal. In generations past, Nvidia maintained a closed system of middleware dubbed GameWorks that would only work on Nvidia graphics cards. The suite included features like PhysX in games like and as well as HairWorks in games like and  With broad neural rendering support through DirectX, it will hopefully encourage developers to include neural shaders without fear of locking out certain players. Nvidia has already demonstrated the capabilities of neural rendering with features such as the Neural Radiance Cache, which uses a neural network to infer light bounces in a path-traced scene, enhancing both the visual quality and performance of games that feature path tracing. Despite the recent announcement of DirectX, it will be some time before we witness neural rendering features in video games. Nvidia and Microsoft are currently in the early stages of developing these innovative rendering methods, meaning it may take a few years before we encounter a game utilizing compact neural networks via shader code. However, the possibilities are immense, and these advancements could lead to a significant evolution in rendering capabilities, especially with support from GPUs across various manufacturers.

Fact Check: Did Dolly Parton successfully acquire TikTok to prevent its ban in the US?

View pictures in App save up to 80% data. A trending video has surfaced, asserting that Dolly Parton has successfully acquired TikTok and intends to launch a new feature called Dolly Talk within the app (Terry Wyatt/WireImage, Getty Images). BRENTWOOD, TENNESSEE: TikTok’s fate in the United States is now in the hands of the Supreme Court and it's not looking good for the content creation app. The Supreme Court heard oral arguments over the law that could ban the app in the US. Notably, the law, signed by President Joe Biden in April 2024, requires TikTok to be sold off from its China-based parent company, ByteDance, or face a US ban, according to CNN. In an urgent submission to the Supreme Court, TikTok stated that if the law is not halted, it “will come into force on January 19, 2025, resulting in the shutdown of TikTok for over 170 million American users each month.” Amidst all this, a rumor has made its way online claiming that Dolly Parton has won the bid to buy TikTok. But is there any truth to this? Let's find out. Assertion: Dolly Parton successfully acquired TikTok through a winning bid. A TikTok video went viral on January 7, Tuesday, claiming that Dolly Parton won the bid to buy TikTok. It was posted by @newstomakeyoulaugh and has so far garnered more than 17K likes, according to Distractify. In a viral video, the iconic country music star famous for her beloved track 'Jolene' revealed her venture into social media. When questioned about her intentions for the platform, Dolly quipped, "Oh, sweetie, I just couldn’t let Trump have all the excitement to himself..." View pictures in App save up to 80% data. Dolly Parton takes the stage during the kickoff event for CMA Fest: A Special Discussion with Dolly Parton, moderated by Rachel Smith, held at the Music City Center in Nashville on June 6, 2024 (Photo by Jason Kempin/Getty Images). The video also suggested that Parton intended to launch a new feature in the app called Dolly Talk, which would allow users to recreate videos dressed in her signature outfits and wigs, according to the source. The video suggested that Donald Trump was reportedly "brooding" at his Palm Beach estate following his defeat in the race against Parton. Additionally, the viral TikTok video featured a message from Parton in which she expressed her heartfelt thanks to all those who have stood by her. Incorrect: The viral TikTok video is not genuine. While the viral clip makes some audacious assertions, it’s important to recognize that these claims are entirely untrue. The video is a product of AI generation and does not depict reality, as indicated by the page that shared the video, which describes itself in its bio as an "AI Comedy Creator." View pictures in App save up to 80% data. Dolly Parton takes the stage at the 53rd annual CMA Awards held at the Bridgestone Arena in Nashville on November 13, 2019 (Photo by Terry Wyatt/Getty Images). Additionally, no media organizations have supported the viral assertion, and there has been no official comment from Parton or her representatives. Many fans who responded to the video also recognized it as a hoax, according to the outlet. One commenter said in the video, "It's a pity it's AI. This could have been the ideal answer," while another expressed, "Ugh. You really crushed my spirits. I was holding onto some hope." Additionally, although Trump has voiced his opposition to the ban and claims he will "rescue" TikTok, he has not indicated any desire to acquire the application. The potential ban of TikTok and its implications More than 170 million people in the US use TikTok. Lawyers for the company contend that banning the app violates the First Amendment rights of those millions of users. The argument did not sway a federal appeals court, which upheld the ban-or-sale bill in December, according to the Guardian. In April 2024, Congress notably approved the legislation with support from both parties. US lawmakers are concerned that China might disseminate propaganda via the app, although the outlet reports that they have not provided any evidence to substantiate these claims. View pictures in App save up to 80% data. This image showcases the TikTok app logo prominently featured on an iPhone, captured in London on February 28, 2023 (Dan Kitwood/Getty Images). President-elect Trump, who initially advocated for the app's ban in 2020, has since changed his stance, discovering a substantial following on the platform during the 2024 presidential election. Moreover, he has filed a brief on TikTok’s behalf to stay the ban until he takes office on January 20. If the court acquiesces, Trump could grant a 90-day extension to TikTok’s parent company, ByteDance, to continue seeking a buyer, per MSNBC. In the event of a ban, new users will be unable to download the app from any app stores, while current users will not have the option to update it. This is due to legal restrictions that prevent any organization from supporting the download or upkeep of the TikTok application. View pictures in App save up to 80% data. This image features a TikTok logo showcased on an iPhone, captured on February 28, 2023, in London (Getty Images). According to the Guardian, US lawmakers have informed Apple and Google, the operators of the two primary mobile app stores, that they need to be prepared to eliminate TikTok from their platforms by January 19. Experts suggest that TikTok's 170 million users in the US are likely to continue using the app since it is already installed on their devices. Nonetheless, as time goes on, the lack of software and security updates may render the app unusable.

Larian Studios Hints at Exciting Developments for Baldur's Gate 3 Enthusiasts and Others

View pictures in App save up to 80% data. The story of Larian Studios is an important one, and one that is all the more important due to recent “trends” in the gaming space that the studio and its CEO, Swen Vincke, have called out repeatedly. However, the key thing that most people know is that the studio was making its own RPGs and going to places like Kickstarter to get funding for them, but wanted to do something more, something grander. Eventually, they got the chance to work on a key RPG cornerstone and made Baldur’s Gate 3. The team toiled away on it via Steam Early Access, with players helping them create the perfect title, and they did one heck of a great job. The title wowed fans and critics and became a best-seller and the Game of the Year for 2023. That was a huge shock, as that year was stacked with big titles from multiple big-name publishers, and Larian Studios hadn’t “earned” that title quite yet. Ever since then, the team has been working on Baldur’s Gate 3 and fine-tuning it, improving it, and adding all sorts of new features to make the game grand. In recognition of Larian and their remarkable journey to success, a YouTube video was created that documents the team's rise from "obscurity" to becoming one of the top developers in the industry. Upon discovering this video, Swen Vincke shared his thoughts in a tweet: Got me all nostalgic – it really has been a incredible journey so far. But the story ain't over yet. Stay tuned. Going to try to skip the dark night of the soul moment though if you don't mind. https://t.co/eLSTv3CXb4— Swen Vincke @where? (@LarAtLarian) January 10, 2025 It's always gratifying to witness the recognition of people's efforts by those they were intended for, and this situation is no exception. So, what could he have meant by saying, "The story isn’t finished yet?" Firstly, regarding the project the team is still developing, there's one final significant update on the horizon. This will mark the conclusion of the major changes, and while fans will be eager to experience the new features, they will also feel a sense of melancholy knowing that this will be the last round of updates. The other side of this coin is that Larian Studios has made it clear that it’s moving on from the Baldur’s Gate franchise and instead moving in a new direction with an all-new game. That declaration, mixed with some other statements from before, make it clear that the team is shifting to this new game. While that will be sad for some, it’ll also breed excitement, as gamers will get to wonder what Larian Studios has in mind for them with its next RPG adventure and how grand it’ll be compared to what they released in 2023. Only time will tell.