July 24, 2025 • By Julian Horsey

Here is a concise summary of the news article: The XLOOKUP function in Excel is a powerful tool for data management, offering more versatility and features than traditional functions like VLOOKUP and HLOOKUP. It can handle multiple criteria, supports both vertical and horizontal lookups, and eliminates the need to pre-sort data. XLOOKUP also has a built-in error-handling feature, allowing users to specify a default output when no match is found. By combining XLOOKUP with other Excel functions, such as FILTER and Boolean logic, users can create dynamic reports, refine searches, and enhance precision. Mastering XLOOKUP can save hours of frustration, transform workflows, and inspire new approaches to data retrieval. With its flexibility and reliability, XLOOKUP is an indispensable tool for professionals managing data in Excel.

July 24, 2025 • By Julian Horsey

Here is a concise summary of the news article: Synology has unveiled its 2026 roadmap, shifting focus towards self-hosted solutions to challenge cloud giants like Google Workspace and Microsoft 365. The company introduced Synology Meet, a video conferencing tool prioritizing data privacy and independence from third-party servers. This move aims to provide organizations with control over their data without sacrificing collaboration, performance, or security. Synology's roadmap also includes revamped office tools, AI integration, and advanced enterprise storage systems, offering a comprehensive alternative to cloud-based platforms. By emphasizing self-hosted solutions, Synology enables businesses to reduce costs, enhance security, and maintain sovereignty over their data, potentially marking a shift away from traditional cloud services.

July 24, 2025 • By Clarisse Loughrey

Your support helps us to tell the story From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financia…

July 24, 2025 • By Roland Hutchinson

Apple has released iOS 26 Beta 4 for developers, introducing various updates to enhance design, functionality, and system performance. The update features a "liquid glass" design, dynamic wallpapers, and improved notifications. The Camera app has been refined, and the Music app now includes "liquid glass effects." Call screening options have been expanded, and performance enhancements have been made, including reduced heating and improved battery life. Safari has also been updated with "liquid glass effects" and a refined domain display. The public beta for iOS 26 is expected to launch soon, with the final release projected for September, coinciding with the expected launch of the iPhone 17.

July 24, 2025 • By Roland Hutchinson

Here is a concise summary of the news article: Apple's iOS 26 Public Beta is expected to be released this week, offering a preview of the company's latest advancements in performance, functionality, and features. Although the official release is pending, the beta version is designed to provide a refined user experience with intuitive app interfaces, customization options, and simplified daily tasks. Additionally, Apple has introduced Apple Care ONE, a streamlined device protection plan that covers up to three devices for $19.99 per month, with additional coverage available for $5.99 per device per month. The plan includes unlimited repairs, 24/7 customer support, and battery replacement services. To celebrate the opening of a new Apple Store in Saudi Arabia, Apple has also launched a custom wallpaper platform that allows users to design and download personalized wallpapers for their devices. These updates demonstrate Apple's focus on innovation, usability, and personalization, aiming to enhance the overall user experience within its ecosystem.

July 24, 2025 • By ET Online

A commercial pilot explained why passengers are asked to switch their phones to airplane mode during flights. Although phones won't cause planes to crash, their signals can interfere with cockpit headsets, especially during landings, causing distractions and frustration for pilots. The FAA mandates airplane mode as a courtesy and for safety. Ignoring this rule can lead to interference, but it's not life-threatening.

July 24, 2025 • By Michael McWhertor

Here is a concise summary of the news article: Electronic Arts (EA) and DICE have revealed the next mainline Battlefield game, titled Battlefield 6. The game's reveal trailer showcases team-based gunplay, military vehicles, and mass destruction, but multiplayer gameplay will be revealed on July 31. The game is set in a modern combat setting and features a squad of four soldiers with classic Battlefield roles. EA and DICE have been testing the game through Battlefield Labs, gathering feedback on gameplay, weapons, and vehicles. The game's class system will feature both predefined and customizable aspects, and changes to destruction, movement, and gunplay handling are expected. Battlefield 6 was first announced in 2022, and since then, DICE and other studios have been co-developing the game, which does not have an announced release date.

July 24, 2025 • By Sean Hollister

Lego has revealed an official Nintendo Game Boy set, priced at $60 in the US, with preorders available now and shipping on October 1st. The 3.5-inch wide and 5.5-inch tall set features detailed designs, including pitch-perfect buttons and printed tiles to replicate the Game Boy's iconic labels. The set also includes swappable lenticular lenses, allowing users to display scenes from classic games like Super Mario Land and The Legend of Zelda: Link's Awakening. Although it doesn't play games, the set is a faithful recreation of the 1989 classic, with Lego and Nintendo even recreating part of the original US Game Boy commercial using the set.

July 23, 2025 • By Jay Peters

Amazon has launched two new iterations of its Kindle Colorsoft e-reader. The first is a cheaper model with 16GB of storage, priced at $249.99, which is $30 less than the previous model. The second is a kids-focused bundle, called Kindle Colorsoft Kids, which includes a 16GB Colorsoft, a special cover, and a year of Amazon Kids Plus subscription for $269.99. The original Kindle Colorsoft Signature Edition, with 32GB of storage and additional features, remains available for $279.99. Amazon had previously addressed an issue with a yellow bar on the screen of the Signature Edition, making software and display adjustments to resolve the problem.

July 23, 2025 • By Jennifer Castenson, Contributor, Jennifer Castenson, Contributor https://www.forbes.com/sites/jennifercastenson/

Here is a concise summary of the news article: RIoT Technology, a startup founded by Brian McCarthy, is revolutionizing smart home technology by providing a preconfigured smart home kit that simplifies integration for builders and homeowners. The kit includes sensors, valves, and devices that can be easily installed during construction, allowing for real-time monitoring of home performance, including energy use, air quality, and water usage. The system can detect issues such as leaks, poor air quality, and maintenance needs, and provides data-driven insights to help builders and homeowners make informed decisions about energy efficiency and maintenance. The technology has the potential to reduce warranty expenses, support the aging energy grid, and even provide insurance benefits. Several home builders, including Tim O'Brien Homes and Schell Brothers, are already using RIoT's system, and the company is working to expand its capabilities to support personal health and wellness.

July 23, 2025 • By Jack Pecau

The 1960s was a significant period for DC Comics, marked by innovation and reinvention. The Justice League of America was formed in 1960, and other teams like the Teen Titans, Doom Patrol, and Metal Men were introduced. New iconic heroes and sidekicks emerged, including Ted Kord (Blue Beetle), Red Tornado, Guy Gardner (Green Lantern), Donna Troy (Wonder Girl), Ray Palmer (Atom), Zatanna Zatara, Beast Boy, Dinah Laurel Lance (Black Canary), Wally West (Kid Flash/Flash), and Barbara Gordon (Batgirl). These characters helped redefine the world of comics, exploring heroism, psychology, and complex storylines. The Silver Age of comics saw a surge in creativity, with DC Comics introducing the Multiverse, nuanced characters, and major crossover events to remain competitive with Marvel Comics.

July 23, 2025 • By Brandon Russell

Amazon's Fire TV Omni QLED Series 65-inch TV is on sale for $449.99, a discount of $270 from its original price. The TV features quantum dot technology for improved color accuracy and brightness, as well as built-in microphones for Alexa commands and support for two-way video calling. It also has a 4K resolution, full-array local dimming, and advanced HDR formats. The TV's refresh rate tops out at 60Hz, but it offers a range of other features, including Amazon's ambient experience, which turns the TV into a canvas for displaying art and photos. This deal makes the 65-inch model cheaper than the starting price of the smaller 55-inch model.

July 23, 2025 • By Webb Wright

McKinsey's Technology Trends Outlook report highlights 13 technologies driving innovation and addressing critical challenges across sectors. The top trends include: 1. AI agents, which leverage foundation models to perform tasks on behalf of human users. 2. AI systems, including generative AI chatbots and predictive algorithms. 3. Semiconductors, such as GPUs, designed to handle specific tasks. 4. Immersive-reality headsets, including virtual and augmented reality. 5. Cybersecurity, which is evolving to counter AI-enhanced cyberattacks. 6. Quantum computing, which leverages quantum mechanics to execute calculations exponentially quicker. 7. Robotics, including self-driving cars and humanoid robots. 8. Advanced transportation technologies, such as drones and e-bikes. 9. Biotechnology, including gene editing and synthetic biology. 10. Space technology, including commercial spaceflight and LEO satellites. 11. Clean energy, including solar power, hydropower, and electric vehicles. 12. 5G and LEO satellites, enabling faster and more frictionless communication. 13. Advanced materials and manufacturing, which is not explicitly mentioned but implied as a key area of innovation. These technologies are transforming the business landscape and addressing critical challenges across sectors. The report notes that job postings for agent-related roles surged by 985% between 2023 and 2024, and AI agents are expected to generate $450 billion by 2028.

July 23, 2025 • By Allison Jewell

Here is a concise summary of the news article: Apple is offering a back-to-school deal where customers can get a free pair of AirPods or an eligible accessory with the purchase of an iPad, MacBook, or iMac. The deal is available to qualified purchasers, including students, parents of higher education students, and education institution employees, from June 17 to September 30, 2025. The free accessory options include AirPods 4, AirPods Pro 2, and Magic Keyboards, among others. ZDNET recommends this deal, giving it a 4/5 Editor's Deal rating, as it provides a great opportunity for students to get a free product with their device purchase. However, the deal has some stipulations, including the need to spend money on a new device and potential extra fees for more expensive accessories.

July 23, 2025 • By Nina Raemont

Uber has launched a "Women Preferences" feature, allowing women to be matched with women drivers for added safety and security. The feature, widely requested by women riders and drivers, will initially launch in Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Detroit. Women can choose to be matched with a woman driver, reserve a ride with one, or set a preference for woman drivers in the app. This feature was first introduced in Saudi Arabia in 2019 and has since expanded to 40 countries. The move aims to address concerns raised by women riders, with Uber reporting 2,717 sexual assault incidents in its 2021-2022 US safety report, a 22% decrease from the previous period.

July 23, 2025 • By Kurt Knutsson, CyberGuy Report

Here is a concise summary of the news article: US Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. announced that the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) is launching a wearables campaign to help people take control of their health. Meanwhile, researchers at UC Berkeley have developed a breakthrough medical test inspired by the "coffee ring effect," which can detect diseases like COVID-19, prostate cancer, and sepsis with high accuracy. The test uses a small sample from the nose or cheek, which is placed on a special membrane and concentrates disease markers at the edges, forming a visible ring. The test can deliver results in just 12 minutes and is up to 100 times more sensitive than current rapid tests. This innovative test has the potential to revolutionize at-home testing and make disease detection easier and more accessible.

July 23, 2025 • By David Harth

The article discusses the worst superhero costumes in Marvel history. It highlights 10 costumes that are considered terrible, including Iceman's original snowman-like costume, Wonder Man's red jacket and pants, and the Hulk's techno-armor. Other costumes mentioned include the Wasp's mutated bug look, Wolverine's feral mutation costume, Thor's over-designed 90s costume, Doctor Strange's 90s Spawn-inspired costume, the modern X-Men costumes designed by Brian Michael Bendis, Captain America's Nomad costume, and Kitty Pryde's Sprite costume. The article concludes by asking readers to share their opinions on the worst Marvel superhero costume.

July 23, 2025 • By Antoine Engels

Amazon has acquired Bee, an AI startup that developed a smart bracelet called the Bee Pioneer. The bracelet, which costs $49.99, has two microphones that record everything said around it, unless manually muted. It provides a personalized summary of the user's day and tasks via a companion app, which requires a $19 monthly subscription. The bracelet's AI struggles to distinguish between real conversations and ambient noise. Amazon has stated that it will work with Bee to strengthen user control and privacy, but the acquisition raises concerns about data collection and surveillance. The terms of the takeover are confidential, but Bee employees have been offered the chance to join Amazon. The acquisition expands Amazon's presence in the AI wearables market, raising questions about the balance between convenience and privacy.

July 23, 2025 • By Gabriela Vatu

Amazon is offering the M1 Pro Mac mini with 512GB of storage and 24GB of RAM for $1,247, a $152 discount. The Mac mini, powered by the M1 Pro processor, boasts impressive performance and is perfect for tasks like photo and video editing. It features three Thunderbolt 4 ports, an HDMI port, and two USB-C ports, making it easy to connect screens, drives, and gadgets. This deal is one of the best prices available for the Mac mini, making it a great opportunity to purchase a powerful and compact machine.