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<!–> ZDNET’s key takeaways The Phelinta 3-in-1 charger is available now on Amazon for $43 a pop. It charges all of your Pixel devices in one convenient place. It isn’t the fastest charger on the planet, but it does exactly what it needs to. –> What’s the deal? On Amazon, Phelinta’s 3-in-1 wireless charger has […] More
<!–> ZDNET’s key takeaways TCL’s 98-inch Class S5 Series TV is one of the most accessibly-priced TVs of its size, and it’s currently on sale for $1,000 off. Watching movies and TV shows on such a big display is as close to a theatre-like experience as one can get at home. With such a large […] More
While GFCI outlets offer reliable protection compared with standard outlets, they aren’t meant for every type of electrical device. Some items should never be plugged into a GFCI, as they could malfunction or trip the circuit unnecessarily, leading to power disruptions or unsafe situations. Below is a list of devices not suited for GFCIs.1. Devices with a “high inrush” currentAppliances like refrigerators, freezers, air conditioner units, and power tools require a serious initial burst of electricity when powered on. Yes, even though refrigerators are almost always located in kitchens, the counterintuitive truth is that they can cause the GFCI to trip because of the large initial surge of current, even if there is no actual fault. This is known as “nuisance tripping,” and it is aptly named. Don’t risk spoiling a fridge full of foods by plugging it into a GFCI.2. Outdoor equipmentSimilarly, outdoor equipment such as electric lawnmowers or pressure washers should ideally be plugged into a dedicated outdoor outlet. While GFCIs are designed for outdoor use to reduce shock hazards, high-powered equipment can cause the GFCI to trip if it draws too much current at one time. Also: The best home EV chargers of 2025: Expert tested3. High-powered appliancesAppliances that use significant power, such as space heaters, microwave ovens, or vacuum cleaners, can cause a GFCI outlet to trip, especially if they are used on a circuit with high loads. These appliances could create a situation where the GFCI trips frequently (more nuisance tripping).4. Surge protectors or power stripsSome power strips and surge protectors, particularly those with multiple plugs for high-powered devices, could cause the GFCI outlet to trip due to the combined electrical load. A sudden power surge or imbalance could cause the GFCI to trip unexpectedly, defeating the GFCI outlet’s purpose and causing repeated circuit tripping.5. Sump pumpsWhile the National Electrical Code (NEC) specifically mandates that new construction includes GFCIs in basements, there is another ironic exclusion among the list: sump pumps. Sump pumps are designed to prevent flooding, but if the GFCI trips and cuts off its power, your basement might end up under several inches of water.Also: How I used this portable power station to bring electricity to a caveman6. Medical equipmentMedical equipment like CPAP machines and oxygen concentrators require continuous, uninterrupted power, so we advise plugging these vital devices into conventional outlets, not GFCIs. Some medical devices have sensitive circuitry, and the GFCI may trip unnecessarily, causing a loss of power to life-sustaining equipment. More
Maria Diaz/ZDNETAmazon has been focused on bringing generative AI to Alexa for the past few years, hitting multiple delays in launching new features that the company first announced in September 2023. The delayed Alexa 2.0 seems poised for a 2025 release, as evidenced by the surprise Devices and Services event Amazon is hosting today.Amid rumors of Alexa 2.0 shortcomings, Amazon skipped its 2024 Devices and Services event, where the company typically announces new Alexa features and hardware devices. The company is hosting an Amazon Alexa-themed event today, where it is expected to unveil the voice assistant’s generative AI features and finally put an ETA on its launch.Also: 5 ways AI can help with your taxes – and 10 major mistakes to avoidThe event will take place today, Feb. 26, in New York City and will be Panos Panay’s first since joining the Devices and Services division after his Microsoft exit. But aside from new Alexa features, Amazon could be preparing to launch other devices.What to expect from Amazon’s February 2025 event More
Clicks Keyboard on a Razr+ playing Super Mario Bros 2 Clicks If you’re unfamiliar with the gadget, the Clicks Keyboard<!–> introduces a QWERTY-style keyboard to certain iPhone models, such as the iPhone 16 Pro. Coming to Pixel 9, Razr+, and Galaxy S25 It aims to enable fast typing via comfortable, tactile keys that sit below the […] More
Ray Massey/Getty Images Doomscrolling got you down? Overwhelmed by the news online? Can’t put your phone down while you’re driving? Our cell phones have us more connected than ever, but being chronically online has its drawbacks. Also: A new Android feature is scanning your photos for ‘sensitive content’ – how to stop it Stress and […] More
<!–> Text-to-speech AI models are a great tool for instances where human voice actors are typically used, such as audiobooks, dubbing, commercials, and more. However, because these models are not human and unaware of what they say, they can sometimes sound noticeably robotic. Hume’s new AI model seeks to tackle this issue. Also: 10 key reasons […] More
<!–> ZDNET’s key takeaways The Roborock Saros 10R is available for $1,600 This new robot vacuum and mop combination navigates complex areas and quietly vacuums, with a good mopping feature that reaches along the edges to not miss a spot The Saros 10R’s mirrored dock looks great, but the water tank is relatively small, lasting […] More
