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Meta Is Going Nuclear to Fuel Its Energy-Hungry AI Ambitions
CNET· 2025-06-03 14:49
Core Insights - The article focuses on the expertise of Tiffany Wendeln Connors in personal finance and credit cards, highlighting her background and passion for helping individuals make informed financial decisions [1] Group 1 - Tiffany Wendeln Connors is a senior editor for CNET Money, specializing in credit cards [1] - She has previously worked at The Penny Hoarder, covering personal finance topics [1] - Connors holds a bachelor's degree in journalism from Bowling Green State University [1] Group 2 - Her professional experience includes writing and editing for various publications such as the New York Post and Women's Running magazine [1] - Outside of work, she enjoys life in St. Petersburg, Florida, with her family and dog [1]
Ford Issues Major Recall of 1.1 Million Vehicles Due to Rearview Camera Glitch
CNET· 2025-05-28 21:50
Core Points - Ford Motor Company has announced a recall of over 1 million vehicles due to a rearview camera system issue that could lead to accidents and property damage [1][3] - The recall affects models released between 2021 and 2025, including electric and hybrid vehicles, with a specific focus on the rearview camera system that may experience delays, freezes, or failure to display [2][3] - The company received complaints regarding this issue, with at least one reported minor accident linked to the malfunction [3] Recall Details - Approximately 1.1 million vehicles are included in the recall, specifically targeting models such as the Ford F-150, Lincoln Nautilus, Mach-E, Bronco, Edge, Escape, Corsair, F-250, F-350, F-450, F-550, F-600, Expedition, Navigator, Transit, Ranger, and Mustang [3][6] - A free software update will be provided to rectify the issue, which can be performed by a dealer or through an over-the-air update [4] - Interim notification letters to vehicle owners are expected to be mailed by June 16, 2025, with a follow-up letter once the remedy is available, anticipated in the third quarter of 2025 [4]
Apple Buys Its First Ever Video Game Studio
CNET· 2025-05-27 22:53
Core Insights - Apple has acquired the two-person game studio RAC7, known for creating the Apple Arcade exclusive game Sneaky Sasquatch, to enhance its mobile gaming offerings [1][2][3] - The acquisition aligns with Apple's strategy to expand its presence in the profitable mobile gaming industry, which generated approximately $90 billion in revenue in 2023, accounting for about half of all gaming revenue [3][4] Company Strategy - Apple aims to support RAC7 in further developing Sneaky Sasquatch and plans to continue collaborating with third-party studios to enrich the Apple Arcade game library [2][3] - The move is consistent with industry trends where companies like Netflix and Microsoft have also acquired gaming studios to bolster their gaming services [3] Industry Context - Mobile gaming is a highly lucrative sector, and Apple's investment in RAC7 reflects its intent to capitalize on this growth opportunity [3][4] - The acquisition may lead to a more robust gaming experience for Apple Arcade users, enhancing the platform's appeal in a competitive market [2][3]
Target Is Latest Chain to Warn of Price Hikes Amid Tariff Uncertainty
CNET· 2025-05-21 19:49
Target reported that its sales fell during the first quarter of 2025. Spencer Platt/Getty ImagesTarget is the latest retailer to reckon with the potential damages done to its business by President Donald Trump's tariff policies, and to warn of possible price hikes coming in the near future.The company, one of the bigger discount department store chains in the US, held an earnings call on May 21 where it reported some less-than-stellar first quarter numbers. Overall sales for Target fell nearly 3% during th ...
Meta Reportedly Delays 'Behemoth' AI Model: What This Could Mean for Its AI Tools
CNET· 2025-05-15 22:18
Core Insights - Meta has delayed the release of its Behemoth large language model (LLM) until fall, originally planned for April and then pushed to June [1][2] - Concerns have been raised regarding the improvements of Behemoth over the existing Llama 4 model, leading to the decision for further refinement [2][6] - The delay may position Meta further behind competitors like OpenAI and Google in the competitive AI landscape [5][6] Company Developments - Meta released Llama 4 in April, which is part of its family of LLMs [2] - The company aims to be a leading AI provider, integrating AI into its platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, and Messenger [4] - A standalone app for Meta AI was launched at the end of April, featuring a hub for Ray-Ban smart glasses [4] Industry Context - The AI market is highly competitive, with significant advancements being made by companies like OpenAI and Google [6] - The delay in releasing new models raises concerns about Meta's ability to keep pace with industry developments [5][6]
Walmart Warns of Price Hikes on Food, Tech and Toys, Blames Tariffs
CNET· 2025-05-15 17:17
Core Viewpoint - Walmart is set to increase prices on food, electronics, and toys due to rising costs from tariffs, despite a temporary reduction in tariffs on Chinese goods [2][3]. Group 1: Company Insights - Walmart, as the largest importer of container goods in the US, sources approximately 60% of its imports from China, which significantly impacts its pricing strategy [3]. - CEO Doug McMillon emphasized that Walmart cannot absorb the increased costs from higher import taxes, indicating a direct correlation between tariffs and retail pricing [2]. - The company remains focused on long-term growth, suggesting that it has historically emerged stronger from economic uncertainties [5]. Group 2: Economic Context - US consumers are already experiencing higher prices, with consumer sentiment declining for four consecutive months, raising concerns about potential decreased demand and its effects on the broader economy [4]. - Although consumer prices rose only 2.3% annually in April, experts warn that the full impact of tariffs has yet to be felt, which could lead to steeper inflation as importers pass on costs to consumers [6]. - The US Federal Reserve has indicated a likely scenario of lower growth and higher inflation, raising concerns about potential stagflation [7]. Group 3: Market Implications - The fluctuating tariff policies are expected to create volatility in consumer prices and spending patterns, affecting overall market dynamics [8].
Uber Introduces Its Own Version of Prime Day: Uber One Member Days
CNET· 2025-05-14 15:11
Core Insights - Uber is launching its first Uber One Member Days event from May 16 to May 23, coinciding with Memorial Day sales, offering exclusive promotions for Uber One members [1][4]. Promotions and Discounts - During Uber One Member Days, members will receive various discounts on rides, including 50% off shared rides, 20% off Uber Black, and 40% off Comfort Electric rides [4]. - The event will feature rotating deals across Uber, Uber Eats, and partnered brands, making food delivery more affordable during this promotional period [3]. Existing Membership Benefits - Uber One already provides benefits such as $0 food delivery, up to 10% off orders at participating locations, and 6% cash back on rides [5]. - A new benefit allows members to earn 10% of their Uber One credits back when using Uber Rent or Lime rides, enhancing the membership value [5]. Membership Enrollment - Non-members can sign up for a free one-month Uber One membership to access the exclusive deals during Member Days, with a reminder to check payment details if they do not wish to continue after the trial [6].
Airbnb Services Emulates the Hotel Experience with Massages, Spas and Chefs
CNET· 2025-05-13 21:14
Core Insights - Airbnb has launched a new feature called Airbnb Services, which allows users to book various services typically found in traditional hotels, enhancing the vacation experience [2][4] - The initial rollout includes 10 service categories across 260 cities globally, offering options like in-home chefs, massage therapists, and personal trainers [2][6] - All service providers are vetted by Airbnb, ensuring identity verification and necessary certifications, with at least one service available for $50 or less in each category [3][4] Airbnb Experiences Revamp - Airbnb Experiences is being revamped alongside the new Services feature, allowing users to book local guides for unique activities and experiences [4][6] - The new Airbnb Originals will offer extraordinary experiences with notable personalities, such as joining celebrities in themed activities [5][6] - The Experiences feature, including Originals, is available in over 650 cities worldwide, with plans for further international expansion [6]
Tariffs or No, Apple May Raise iPhone Prices This Year
CNET· 2025-05-12 13:28
The price hike would cover the iPhone 17 line, expected to be released in the fall, which could include a rumored ultraslim new "Air" model and new features, such as increased RAM across the phone line. These phones would include iOS 19, which could bring significant software changes and improvements to the company's AI system, Apple Intelligence. The Wall Street Journal says that Apple is trying to position any pricing increase as being prompted by improvements to the products, not tariffs, although a 20% ...
Meta Reportedly Eyeing 'Super Sensing' Tech for Smart Glasses
CNET· 2025-05-08 20:21
Core Insights - Meta is developing a "super sensing" facial recognition technology for its smart glasses, which can recognize individuals by name and track user activities throughout the day [1] - The company is working on two new pairs of smart glasses, internally named Aperol and Bellini, while re-evaluating privacy policies and safety risks associated with the technology [2] - This initiative is part of Meta's broader strategy to enhance its smart glasses lineup and integrate AI more deeply into its products, especially in response to competitors like Google [3] Product Development - The new smart glasses will feature opt-in facial recognition technology, indicating a shift towards user consent in privacy matters [2] - Meta's current focus is on creating AI-powered devices without displays, which serve as a testing ground for AI interactions in smart glasses [5] Market Positioning - The development of these smart glasses represents a natural progression from Meta's existing Ray-Ban glasses, aiming to deliver AI capabilities at a lower cost [4] - The integration of sensing recognition capabilities into AI-powered earphones is also part of Meta's strategy to enhance its product offerings [3]