URL: ZDNet

AI News

Friday, May 8, 2026

• Don't connect your smart plug to these 5 household devices - an expert warns
  While smart plugs are very convenient, here are some things you should never plug into them.
  
• Worried about the nationwide Canvas data breach? Take these 6 steps now
  A ransomware group behind the attacks claims to have stolen 275 million records connected to students, teachers, and staff. Here's how to deal with it.
  
• Windows rivals to MacBook Neo are arriving - but can you handle their shortcomings?
  Budget PCs have a ways to go if they really want to compete with the MacBook Neo. But Chromebooks could have a leg up.
  
• Flying soon? American Airlines has new portable battery rules - what to know before you go
  American isn't the first carrier to enforce tighter restrictions on portable power in-flight. Here's what's already changed - and why.
  
• Dell vs. Lenovo: I've tested dozens of laptops from both brands, and here's my pick
  Dell and Lenovo specialize in PCs, laptops, and other computing products, but which one is better? This guide will help you make the right choice for your needs.
  
• After using Lenovo's $2,600 Yoga, I'm taking premium Windows laptops seriously again
  Lenovo's Pro 9i Aura Edition is a powerful laptop that fields strong, sustained performance, a vivid display, and a robust cooling system.
  
• Roku apps loading slow? 9 quick fixes I try before blaming my Wi-Fi
  If your Roku is lagging, with apps struggling to open, it might not be your Wi-Fi. Here's what I do to fix performance.
  
• Google Maps vs. Apple Maps: I compared two of the best navigation apps - here's my pick
  Apple Maps has improved over the years, but how does it compare to Google Maps today? Here's the verdict after extended use.
  

Thursday, May 7, 2026

• I started clearing my Roku cache, and it fixed my biggest TV complaint
  Clearing my Roku cache takes less than a minute. When I remember to do it, my system runs like new.
  
• ReMarkable Paper Pure vs. Amazon Kindle Scribe: I've written on both E Ink tablets - this one wins
  I compared two of the best black-and-white e-readers on the market; they look similar but have very different use cases.
  
• Lost your Roku remote? Here are four ways you can still control your TV
  You can still watch your favorite shows even if your Roku remote has disappeared. Here's how.
  
• This TCL Mini LED TV is one of the best I've tested - and it's up to $2,000 off at Best Buy
  The TCL QM8 is an excellent Mini LED TV that offers high-quality picture and audio.
  
• Hundreds of readers bought this E Ink tablet - and I highly recommend it
  ZDNET readers love this E Ink tablet, thanks to its paper-to-pen writing experience and versatile uses.
  
• Whoop vs. Fitbit Air: I compared Google's new fitness band to the industry favorite
  Taking on Whoop, Google unveiled its brand new screenless fitness band, the Fitbit Air. Here's which one is better, by the specs.
  
• 10 secret Netflix codes I use to find hidden movies (and how to enter them) - it's easy
  Netflix codes let you access movies in buried genres and micro-categories - for free. Here's how, plus my favorites.
  
• Best travel VPNs of 2026: Expert tested and reviewed
  If you want to avoid missing your favorite show on your next vacation, check out our favorite travel VPNs of 2026.
  
• The best VPN extensions for Chrome in 2026: Expert tested and reviewed
  Chrome VPN extensions hide your online activities and improve your privacy without disrupting your browsing session. These are ZDNET's top picks.
  
• I've fully converted to adaptive chargers from fast ones and already feel safer
  Adaptive charging aims to reduce battery wear by keeping speeds low. My favorite model is ideally suited for overnight charges.
  
• How I upgraded my Sonos soundbar's audio quality - 3 easy and free methods
  If you're not satisfied with your soundbar's audio performance, these quick and simple tweaks made a big difference for me.
  
• I've tested several ReMarkable tablets, but its new cheap E Ink tablet had me fooled
  The ReMarkable Paper Pure pairs an accessible design with thoughtful features while retaining ReMarkable's niche functionality.