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    I tested MSI’s new Windows handheld and would consider it over a gaming laptop

    <!–> ZDNET’s key takeaways The MSI Claw 8 AI+ is on pre-order through the company’s online store and Amazon for $899. It stands tall as a high-performing gaming handheld with a vibrant touchscreen and unique design. However, its large size won’t be for everyone, and there are still a few software bugs. more buying choices […] More

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    I underestimated these Shokz’ open-ear headphones – they’re now an everyday favorite

    <!–> ZDNET’s key takeaways The Shokz OpenFit 2 are available for $179 in Beige and Black. These open-ear true wireless earbuds deliver meaningful upgrades from the first generation, offering high performance in almost any environment. Wearing glasses causes the ear hooks to become unstable, affecting the earbuds’ fit and sound quality. more buying choices Open-ear […] More

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    Our favorite AirPods Pro 2 are $80 off at Walmart right now

    Jason Hiner/ZDNETApple recently unveiled new AirPods, and while you might be considering buying the brand’s latest headphones, you shouldn’t forget about the sweet, sweet discounts that activate on earlier models once Apple releases new hardware — especially if you’re looking for a new pair of high-quality noise-canceling earbuds.The AirPods Pro (2nd generation) More

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    AT&T tells you why a business is calling now, thanks to this feature update

    ZDNETMaking sure you get to that important call (and avoid unwanted ones) is about to get a little easier if you’re an AT&T customer on Android.Also: How to clear your Android phone’s cache and make it feel like newStarting soon, you’ll be able to see why a business is calling you on the incoming call screen.How it worksTo enroll, businesses will have to sign up for TruContact Branded Call Display. When an enrolled business places a call, they’ll select the reason. AT&T explained that the caller will have a wide range of reasons to choose from, including “Customer Service,” “Refill Reminder,” “Appointment Reminder,” “Delivery,” “Patient Callback,” and “Upcoming Appointment.”When your phone rings, you’ll see the business name, number, possibly its logo, and the reason for the call.You don’t need to do anything to start seeing the new feature, which is an extension of a feature that rolled out last year that introduced business logos on verified numbers and the same technology that automatically labels spam calls.If you’re worried about scammers misusing this tech, not every business that calls will be able to select a reason (which is probably beneficial given how many people opt to avoid talking to my Google Pixel call screener). It’s only open to businesses in the TransUnion TruContact program.Also: Google’s new ‘Ask For Me’ AI tool calls businesses to get your questions answeredSince enrolled businesses will likely utilize the service and select a reason, it probably means a much higher pickup rate  for legitimate callers. According to a recent study, 73% of people would likely pick up a call if it displayed a verified logo and reason.”Research shows consumers still prefer calling for communicating with businesses,” said Erin Scarborough, AT&T senior vice president of Mass Markets Product Management, “especially for urgent, personal, or high-value issues.” This branding, she explained, means you can trust who’s calling. More

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    The best robot vacuum deals of February 2025: Save on Roomba, Roborock, Eufy, and more

    It depends, but you usually don’t need to empty the dustbin after each use. Many robot vacuums can self-empty at their docking station, so you don’t have to clean the actual robot. Self-emptying robot vacuums can collect anywhere from 30 to 60 days’ worth of dust and allergens, which makes cleaning a breeze. Other robot vacuums don’t offer self-emptying features but are more affordable. Depending on how much dust and pet hair is on your floors, you may be able to go a few uses before emptying the dust bin.It’s worth reading the product description, as it will state whether it offers a self-cleaning option alongside how long the bin will last between sessions. More

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    Your Netgear Wi-Fi router could be wide open to hackers – install the fix now

    ZDNETNetgear has resolved a couple of critical security vulnerabilities affecting several of its products. With the fixes in place, the company is advising affected customers to update their devices ASAP.Also: Bye bye, Wi-Fi: This low-cost adapter lets you set up a wired network without running ethernetOne set of fixes patches an unauthenticated RCE (Remote Code Execution) security vulnerability, which could allow an attacker to remotely run malicious code on a targeted device without permission or authentication.The Wi-Fi routers and access points affectedThis issue affects three Wi-Fi routers: Nighthawk Pro Gaming WiFi 6 Router model XR1000, the Nighthawk WiFi 6 Pro Gaming Router model XR1000v2, and the Nighthawk Pro Gaming Router model XR500. The bug addressed here was rated Critical with a CVSS (Common Vulnerabilities Scoring System) score of 9.8.The other set of fixes addresses an authentication bypass security vulnerability, which could let an attacker remotely access a device without authentication.Also: I turned my Starlink Mini into a near-perfect off-grid internet solution. Here’s howThis bug affects three wireless access points: the WiFi 6 AX3200 Dual Band Wireless Access Point model WAX206, the WiFi 6 AX4200 Dual-band Multi-Gig PoE Access Point model WAX220, and the WiFi 6 AX1800 Dual-band PoE Wireless Access Point model WAX214 v2. This flaw was rated Critical with a CVSS score of 9.6. More