Eliana Willis

Screenshot by Jack Wallen/ZDNETI won’t lie: I’m keen on aesthetics. I don’t want something I stare at for hours to look plain, average, or boring. If I’m going to use a piece of software all day, I want it to look good — and even reflect a bit of my personality. That’s one of the many reasons why I chose the Linux operating system (because I can make it look and feel how I want).But what about browsers? Also: I’ve used Linux for 30 years. Here are 5 reasons why I’ll never switch to Windows or MacOSWith browsers like Firefox, you can add themes in the same way you add extensions. But those themes are pretty flat and not exactly inspiring. The developers of the Opera browser have something very special on the way, called dynamic themes. You’re likely somewhat familiar with the term “dynamic” as it applies to the desktop, thanks to things like the MacOS dynamic wallpaper. Anything “dynamic” should add a bit of excitement or flare to the software you use. What Opera has in store certainly does that.A few things to note: Currently, dynamic themes are available only in the development version of Opera; you can install and use the development version alongside the standard version (which is what I do). More

The Arlo Pro 5S is easy to install, thanks to its built-in battery. Maria Diaz/ZDNETWhat’s the deal?The Arlo Pro 5S 2K security camera More

Google I consider myself a Google Docs power user. I’m in Docs every day — and I’ve used it to write technical articles, documentation, resumes, books, and everything in between. Every so often, I’ll open a document and find something new staring back at me. This happened earlier this month when Google introduced document tabs. […] More

Maria Diaz/ZDNETZDNET’s key takeawaysAmazon recently launched a new Ring Battery Doorbell Pro for $230 More

Adam Breeden/ZDNETWhat’s the deal? Buy Buy is offering the 85-inch TCL QM8 (2024) More

There’s no set definition of a small phone. A decade ago, 5-inch+ screen size phones were known as phablets. That same screen size is now considered too small, thanks to advancements in display technology and design. With FaceID coming into play and the physical home button disappearing, any phone with around a 6.1-inch screen can be considered small. Since Apple abandoned its Mini lineup with the iPhone 13 Mini, and most small phones that have launched since haven’t been very popular, the definition of a “small phone” has changed — most phones now feature a 6.7-inch display. As a result, we have more options for small phones than ever. In 2024, you no longer have to settle for a non-flagship phone if you want a compact device. Also: The best Android phones: Expert tested Which is the best small phone right now?At ZDNET, we’ve tested every flagship phone launched this year. My picks for the two best small phones overall are the iPhone 16 Pro More

Sony/ZDNETNow is the time to kickstart your home theater or give it a total refresh. Amazon is offering a great bundle deal where you’ll get both a Sony Bravia 7 More

Kerry Wan/ZDNETSamsung dropped new phones and devices in July, which means that there are plenty of discounts and coupons on mobile devices, like the Galaxy A35 smartphone — a nearly perfect option for older kids and teens or anyone looking for an affordable, no-nonsense smartphone.If you have kids who are asking for their own smartphones, Amazon is offering a free pair of Samsung Buds FE wireless earbuds when you bundle them with a Samsung Galaxy A35 smartphone More