Information Technology

Adam Breeden/ZDNETNetflix wasn’t the first streaming platform, but it was the first to make video-on-demand mainstream. Fourteen years ago, as it phased out its mailing service, it took a massive bite out of the global market.Also: This 30-second fix made my Roku TV run like new again (and why it works)Remember that? Physical DVDs showing up in your actual mailbox — the one at the end of your driveway (or your hallway)? To my surprise, that was still actually a thing up until late 2023. Whaaat?Streaming introduced a slew of new entertainment options and, most importantly, unparalleled convenience. These days, Netflix is one of many platforms that offer a staggering amount of titles to choose from — and yet, there is more there than meets the eye.Did you know Netflix has secret cheat codes?As it turns out, Netflix has a plethora of shows and movies available that you don’t normally see when booting up the app. Our personalized, algorithm-based menus confine us to viewing only a fraction of the entire Netflix library.Also: How to clear your TV cache (and why it makes such a big difference)You can find special cheat codes to unlock more content on resources like Netflix-Codes and the website What’s On Netflix. Either is a good place to start massively multiplying your viewing options. The categories associated with these codes range everywhere from “Deep Sea Horror Movies” (code 45028) to very specific subgenres like “Feel-good Sports Movies for Ages 8 to 10” (code 855).  More

Asus ProArt P16 <!–> ZDNET’s key takeaways The Asus ProArt P16 is available now, starting at $1,900. It pairs powerful hardware with a suite of customizable options designed for creatives. The deep personalization requires engagement from the user, the huge trackpad won’t be everyone’s cup of tea, and the ultra-glossy display tends to glare. –> […] More

<!–> ZDNET’s key takeaways The Shine Turbine kit is on sale for $279, while the Essentials Kit is on sale for $342. The kit includes everything you need to turn wind into electrical energy, and the turbine features a 12,000 mAh battery. There are limitations, which include the weight of the kit and the 40W […] More

HP OmniBook X Flip 16 <!–> ZDNET’s key takeaways HP’s new OmniBook X Flip 16 is on sale for $900 on HP’s site. Thanks to its stylish, lightweight design and vibrant 3K OLED, this laptop is sure to turn heads. Its midrange hardware comes with limitations. more buying choices At Best Buy, the HP OmniBook […] More

A good multitool can be a reliable companion for decades (as long as you don’t lose it!). Adrian Kingsley-Hughes/ZDNETI like having a good multitool close at hand and at all times. While they can’t replace a proper toolkit, I don’t fancy carrying a full toolkit with me when I’m out and about. Many of my readers are like me, often finding themselves doing random and unplanned DIY tasks throughout the day, so having a portable toolkit that can handle the basics is essential.Also: Storms and bad weather? How to prep your tech ahead of possible emergenciesNot a week goes by without someone asking for my multitool recommendations. My advice is always the same: check out what Leatherman More

Samsung Galaxy 8 Smartwatch <!–> ZDNET’s key takeaways Samsung’s Galaxy 8 is available for preorder now, with shipping beginning on July 25. It’s a capable smartwatch with all the usual health metrics, along with Samsung’s Running Coach, bedtime guidance, and recovery insights. Some features feel more experimental than scientific, like Antioxidant Index and BMI, which […] More

MicroStockHub/Getty When we hear the word “technology,” most of us automatically think of hardware; the physical devices that have become such a conspicuously present part of many of our day-to-day lives. But technology is a much more expansive phenomenon, encompassing not only all the various tools and gadgets we can clearly see, but also a […] More

Sabrina Ortiz/ZDNETFollowing the success of the Meta Ray-Bans, the company partnered with luxury eyewear brand Oakley, appealing to an entirely new demographic of users — athletes and outdoorsy types who appreciate a more rugged pair of shades. Both smart glasses have built-in speakers, mics, cameras, and AI, with the same functionalities when it comes to capturing videos and audio playback, be that music, a phone call, or the Meta AI assistant. However, there are some major differences with specs and design to provide users with different experiences for different environments. Also: I took a walk with Meta’s new Oakley smart glasses – they beat my Ray-Bans in every wayRight off the bat, if you want to look at prices, I should mention the Meta Oakley HSTN Limited Edition More