Information Technology

Elyse Betters Picaro / ZDNETZDNET’s Key Takeaways:OpenAI launched ChatGPT customization updates.Users can choose chat color and personality.All users (even free) can now access Advanced Voice Mode.OpenAI is having one of its biggest product launch weeks, releasing its highly anticipated open-source models, gpt-oss-120b and gpt-oss-20b, and GPT-5. Buried within the deluge of the large language models (LLMs) are helpful ChatGPT features that add customization options that could make the ChatGPT experience more enjoyable. Also: GPT-5 is finally here, and you can access it for free today – no subscription neededIn OpenAI’s Summer Update event on Thursday, the company added the ability to choose a color for ChatGPT chats, choose from new personalities when using the Custom Instructions feature, more easily connect your Google productivity apps, and better interact with Advanced Voice Mode. Keep reading below for the full overview of the features’ capabilities and how to access them. ChatGPT chat color optionsStarting with perhaps the most self-explanatory feature, you can now choose a color for your chats. This option is available to everyone, but a few exclusive options are available for paid users. While this won’t largely change your productivity within ChatGPT, it can make the experience more enjoyable or better match your aesthetic preferences. New personalities in Custom Instructions.Custom Instructions, launched in April 2023, lets users set preferences that tailor how ChatGPT generates responses. Now, OpenAI has launched a research preview of four preset personalities: Cynic, Robot, Listener, and Nerd, available in the Custom Instructions experience. The personalities tweak how ChatGPT interacts with users, giving the chatbot different tones that better match your needs and communication styles. For example, OpenAI said some are concise and professional, while others are a bit sarcastic. The personalities are available to all users, opt-in, and adjustable anytime in your Customize ChatGPT settings.  More

T-Mobile/ZDNETWhether you’re looking to switch internet providers or add a home internet plan to your current account, T-Mobile is offering a $300 rebate when you sign up for their All-In 5G home internet plan More

Kerry Wan/ZDNETAs a full-time smartphone reviewer, I spend most of my year testing Android phones.By habit, I’ve picked up several shortcuts, tips, and tricks for setting up handsets, tweaking them so that they perform as best as possible when the verdicts are due.Also: How to clear your Android phone cache (and why it’s the easiest way to speed it up)One tip I always give to family members, friends, and passersby when asked, “How can I make my phone faster?” is straightforward yet typically hidden: Adjusting the animation speed.The method of doing so is quick, simple, and absolutely free. As a bonus, you’ll feel like the “guy behind the computer” in action movies. Here are the steps. More

TP-Link ZDNET’s key takeaways TP-Link’s new BE3600 Wi-Fi 7 Travel Router is designed with portability in mind, making it ideal for business travelers. Still, it packs useful connectivity features like dual-band support with up to 3.6 Gbps, adjustable antennas ,and more. The router is priced at $140, with a promotional code on Amazon bringing it […] More

JBL Bar 1000MK2 <!–> ZDNET’s key takeaways The JBL Bar 1000MK2 includes a soundbar, two detachable rear speakers, and an external subwoofer for $1,200. It’s a versatile system, with powerful audio performance suitable for large rooms. It’s not an ideal option for people who want permanent rear speakers. more buying choices The original JBL Bar […] More

Dangbei N2 Mini Projector <!–> ZDNET’s key takeaways The Dangbei N2 Mini projector is on sale on Amazon for $189. The N2 Mini is one of the easiest projectors to setup I’ve used, and delivers crisp 1080p video without much fuss. Unfortunately, it’s limited to 1080p and does not do 4K, and you’ll want to […] More

Adrian Kingsley-Hughes/ZDNET In November of 2022, I decided I needed to organize my pocket EDC (everyday carry) gear. As part of that reorganization, I picked up a KeySmart Air More

Kerry Wan/ZDNETApple has been busy prepping iOS 26 for its likely debut in September. Until then, the iPhone’s upcoming new OS has been accessible for anyone to try via a developer beta (now up to version 5) and the initial public beta. Though iOS 26 still has at least a month of tweaks before it’s finalized, the beta flavors already provide a peek at what to expect.You can download iOS 26 beta on your iPhone now. Here’s how to install it — and which models support it.Also: The best MagSafe accessories of 2025 for your iPhoneI’ve been running the public beta since its release on July 24. Among the new and improved features in iOS 26, these are my five favorites so far.1. Liquid GlassAdding a new translucent design to the interface, Liquid Glass gives the impression that you’re looking at your screen elements through glass. With this new aesthetic enabled, icons appear more three-dimensional and layered, while menus are semi-transparent. I’ve read some negative comments about Liquid Glass, but I like the new design. I feel the interface draws me in and engages with me in an artistic but practical way. Comparing my test iPhone with iOS 26 and my current phone with iOS 18, I can clearly see and appreciate the differences with Liquid Glass.Also: What is Liquid Glass? Here’s everything we know about Apple’s major UI overhaul More