Eliana Willis

Kyle Kucharski/ZDNETZDNET’s key takeawaysLinux Lite 7.0 is available to download and install for free from the official site.This lightweight Linux distribution comes with everything you need and performs like an absolute champ.The default desktop is a bit bland, but it’s fairly easy to customize.My friend recently wanted to bring an old laptop back to life. Her aging Intel MacBook was no longer supported by Apple, and instead of letting the machine wind up in a landfill somewhere, she decided to install Linux, an OS she’d never used before.She started her quest with Linux Mint, which is always a good place to start. Unfortunately, the installation failed for her (mostly because of the doggedly slow nature of the machine), so she reached out.Also: 5 lightweight Linux distributions that will bring your old PC back to lifeGiven her hardware, there was only one logical suggestion to make — Linux Lite. This installation went well for her, except the keyboard layout was automatically selected incorrectly. Fortunately, that was an easy fix.After this experience, I realized I hadn’t reviewed Linux Lite in a while, and it was time to rectify that. So, I downloaded the ISO, spun up a virtual machine, and in less than five minutes logged into the desktop. Any time I review a lightweight Linux distribution, I know what I’m getting into. They tend to be fairly generic, with a lack of eye candy and panache. They get the job done and not much more.  That’s why Linux Lite struck me as unique among the “genre.” No, it doesn’t offer a plethora of effects or beautifications. It’s a very straightforward (albeit customized) version of the Xfce desktop, which means you can always further customize it to meet your needs. It took me all of two minutes to configure the desktop to how I prefer the interface (with a dock-like panel, no desktop icons, and a lighter theme). More

<!–> ZDNET’s key takeaways Microsoft made one of the best work tablets of 2024 with the 11th-generation Surface Pro for $1,000. It’s one of the latest Copilot+ PCs housing next-gen hardware, long-lasting battery, and a stunning OLED touchscreen. As great as it may be, the device’s generative AI features don’t perform at the same level […] More

<!–> ZDNET’s key takeaways It boosts battery life up to a decade. It is water and dustproof. However, it does add bulk to the sleek AirTag. –> Apple AirTags<!–> have revolutionized every aspect of my life. From finding my keys and wallet in the morning to keeping an eye on my luggage while traveling, not […] More

<!–> ZDNET’s key takeaways The Sennheiser Ambeo Soundbar Mini is available now from the official site for $799. The Ambeo Mini produces a big, rich sound but does depend on the subwoofer (sold separately) to give it enough depth. The Sennheiser app can be a bit tricky, but once you get it all connected, it […] More

Nina Raemont/ZDNETWhat’s the deal? Training for a marathon in 2025? The Nothing Ear Open More

Prakhar Khanna/ZDNETThere’s been plenty of chatter about Samsung debuting a second-generation Galaxy Ring at its Unpacked event More

I began using robot vacuum and mop combinations over six years ago, looking for a way to check some chores off my list without breaking my back or taking away my already-divided attention from my little ones. Little did I know this would launch me onto the world of testing the latest and greatest robot vacuums just a few years later.Also: The best robot vacuum deals: Save on Roomba, Roborock, and moreSince getting my first device, robot vacuum and mop combinations have evolved from including a soggy microfiber pad dragged across your floors to self-washing rotating mop pads, mop rollers, and self-emptying dustbins. All the different options make picking the right robot vacuum and mop combo for your needs challenging, but we’re here to help.What is the best robot vacuum mop right now?At ZDNET, we have tested dozens of the best robot vacuum mops available and have seen firsthand that it is possible to sit back and relax while one of these machines takes care of all the hard work. Based on our testing, our pick for the best robot vacuum mop overall is the Dreame X40 Ultra More

Prakhar Khanna/ZDNETThe Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra is just a day away from its official launch, but Honor is jumping into the ring early to challenge Samsung with its Magic 7 Pro More