URL: ZDNet

Linux News

Thursday, July 2, 2026

• Fable 5 just set a new AI freelance work performance record - but it can't replace humans yet
  The newly reinstated Anthropic model topped charts for automating work. Here's what that means for the future.
  
• Considering plug-in solar at home? Electrical experts say to watch for these 6 safety risks
  Several industry groups have raised public safety concerns about consumer plug-in solar kits. If in doubt about your installation, here's what to do.
  
• The best July 4th TV deals: Up to 50% off Samsung, Sony, and more
  This weekend marks America's 250th birthday, which means you'll save big on TV deals from top brands, all thoroughly vetted and tested by our experts.
  
• 16 Apple Messages settings I change on every iPhone - and why
  Turn these iMessage settings on or off for a cleaner, modern, and more private texting experience.
  
• LG is giving away free single-door refrigerators - how to qualify for the deal
  When you buy this refrigerator model on sale, LG will give you a free single-door refrigerator too - perfect for the garage or basement.
  
• I've been reviewing laptops for years: These are the 15+ best July 4th laptop deals
  The Fourth of July weekend brings tons of sales on top laptops we've reviewed, from Apple, Acer, Lenovo, and more.
  
• The best July 4th deals live now: Save on Anker, Garmin, Apple, and more
  Fourth of July weekend is almost here, and there are plenty of deals to celebrate.
  
• The 10 most popular products ZDNET readers bought last month (including during Prime Day)
  From gadgets to streaming, these are the top tech gadgets and useful items our readers actually purchased in June.
  
• Finally, I found a robot vacuum that leaves my two-year-old model in the dust
  The Eufy Omni S2 improves on its predecessor with four times the suction power, and an odor-free mop roller.
  
• I tested the LG C6 OLED for a week, and the colors made me question my Mini LED loyalty
  One of LG's flagship OLED TVs got a refresh with the C6, and continues to prove why OLED is worth the high asking price.
  
• HP's new OmniBook is a smart buy in this economy - here's what convinced me
  HP's OmniBook Ultra 14 combines a sleek design and OLED display with the kind of performance professionals appreciate.
  
• I wore the Oura Ring 5 for a month, and two big upgrades make it so much better than the 4
  But there's one feature that makes the Oura Ring 5 truly worth buying.
  
• ExpressVPN's password manager just got a big upgrade with secure sharing, passkey support, and more
  Available today, ExpressKeys now delivers more secure sharing, passkey support, and improved cross-device management.
  
• How I set OpenAI API usage limits to stop agent overspending and other AI billing nightmares
  OpenAI API costs can spiral when agents run wild. Here's how to set spend limits, enable hard caps, and avoid surprise AI bills.
  
• Microsoft's new Azure Linux 4.0 is here, and it could replace Windows Server in the enterprise
  Microsoft's Linux server distribution is now available as an ISO to install on your own server or virtual machine.
  
• I tried Brave's new stripped down Origin browser, and now it's my top Chromium-based pick
  If you like the idea of Brave's browser security, but all of the other features just get in your way, the developers have created a solution for you.
  
• If you like COSMIC Desktop, you'll love its new system monitor
  If you like to see and manage your system processes on Linux, but aren't happy with the tool you're using, System76 might have just the app you've been looking for (and a reason to switch to either COSMIC Desktop or Pop!_OS).
  
• Opera is releasing a new feature that detects and blocks malicious clipboard content
  If you tend to copy/paste content from websites, you might be surprised to find yourself under the thrall of a ClickFix attack, but Opera has a solution to fix it before you click it.
  

Wednesday, July 1, 2026

• I've tested many portable Linux distros, but PorteuX is the one I keep on my USB drive
  Ever longed for a Linux distro to have with you at all times? Consider the super-fast, modular, and immutable Slackware-based PorteuX.
  
• Your old Android phone can be turned into a dashcam for free - how I did it in 5 easy steps
  Want a dashcam? Before buying one, repurpose an old phone. It's free, takes minutes, and works well.