Robotics

<!–> ZDNET’s key takeaways The Baseus Nomos NU1 Air Spacemate is on sale for $79. It’s a compact docking station that’s ideal for both Windows or macOS users on the go. Unlike its predecessor, however, it only supports two monitors at 4K resolution instead of three. more buying choices Sometimes the best updates are incremental, […] More

Maria Diaz/ZDNETExtension cords are generally a safe solution for running power to electronics that are too far from the nearest wall outlet. But the operative word here is “electronics,” which is not as all-encompassing as some people might think.Appliances (like refrigerators and toaster ovens) are obviously electronic devices, but they’re in a different class from most electronics because of the amperage demands they need to function. Why you shouldn’t plug everything into an extension cordExtension cords are manufactured with a maximum capacity to handle electrical current, which is determined by the size or gauge of the wire used in the cord. For instance, a 16-gauge extension cord can handle a maximum of 13 amps, while a 14-gauge cord can handle up to 15 amps (or 1,800 watts), the same as a standard wall outlet in the US. Also: Are portable AC units viable at home? My verdict after testing one during a heat waveWhen an appliance demands more power than the extension cord can handle, it results in an overload, which could lead to overheating. You really don’t want your cord’s insulation to melt, exposing the live wires and potentially sparking a fire.Any appliance requiring more than 1,800 watts should be on a dedicated circuit — never connected by an extension cord. And the following are seven household devices you’ll definitely want to connect directly to an outlet. More

How do I install the iOS 26 public beta?Once Apple releases the public beta of iOS 26, you will not need to go through the above steps to to test the developer beta. Instead, follow the steps below. You’ll still need an iPhone running iOS 16.5 or later, and since not all iPhones are compatible with iOS 26, you’ll also need a model newer than the iPhone 11.Go to your iPhone’s Settings and select General.Go to Software Update in Settings.Enable Beta Updates (off by default).Select “iOS 26 Public Beta” (if available).Once you do this, return to the previous page. If an update is available now, your iPhone will prompt you to download and install it. You’ll then begin receiving automatic software updates to the latest beta version of iOS 26.  Which iPhones are compatible with iOS 26? Apple removed the iPhone XR and XS from its list of supported devices with iOS 26, so any iPhone 11 or newer is compatible with the new operating system, including the iPhone SE. Also: Every iPhone model that can be updated to iOS 26 (and which ones don’t support it) When will iOS 26 be released? The iOS 26 developer beta (Beta 3) is available now. The public beta will likely go live mid-July 2025. If Apple follows its usual cadence, the final, general release of iOS 26 should arrive in September 2025. What to do before installing the iOS 26 developer beta? You can always join the Apple Beta program to get the latest beta versions of iOS. Before you download a beta version of an operating system, keep these housekeeping items in mind: Back up your device and personal information.Don’t download beta software, which will likely have bugs and glitches, on your everyday iPhone.Beta versions are released so you can test new features and share feedback to improve iOS.How to submit beta feedback to AppleBy the time the public beta is released, Apple will have two beta versions of iOS: iOS 26 public beta and iOS 26 developer beta. Both betas come with a built-in Feedback Assistant app, which can be opened from the Home screen on your iPhone or iPad. Whenever you experience an issue or something does not work as expected, send your feedback directly to Apple with Feedback Assistant.Also: Five iOS 26 features that I’ve been using on my Android phone for yearsEditor’s note: This article was originally published in 2024. It was fact-checked and thoroughly updated on July 8, 2025.Get the morning’s top stories in your inbox each day with our Tech Today newsletter. More

<!–> ZDNET’s key takeaways The Tuxedo Computers InfinityBook Pro 14 Gen 9 is available now on the official site for around $1,137. This laptop outperformed my expectations in every way, with a powerful CPU and a gorgeous display. It’s manufactured in Europe, so use caution when selecting your keyboard during the order process. –> I […] More

<!–> ZDNET’s key takeaways The Piccolo N150 netbook is on sale now for $389. This eight-inch laptop has a nice display, enough power for most use cases, and even runs Linux well. The keyboard on the N150 is a challenge to get used to. –> If given the opportunity, I would much rather use a […] More

<!–> ZDNET’s key takeaways The Herk Pulsar is avaialble now from the official website for $309. This tiny PC has more power than you’ll need for average tasks. Certain colorways tend to sell out quickly. –> I’ve tested a lot of Mini PCs, and they tend to fall into one of two categories: underwhelming or […] More

<!–> ZDNET’s key takeaways The $1,300 Motorola Razr Ultra is a high-performance flip phone with a unique design. Key upgrades make it a compelling option for foldable (and compact) phone enthusiasts, such as the 65W charging speed and 50MP ultrawide lens. The 4,700mAh battery looks great on paper, but yields average endurance from our testing. […] More

Joan Cros/NurPhoto via Getty Images Android and open source are closely intertwined. In fact, most open-source fans I know also use Android. Coincidence? I think not. One nice thing about Android is that the Google Play Store has lots of open-source software. That’s not to say every single open-source title is worth your time and […] More