From ZDNET · 33 stories
Android Auto adds Adobe Acrobat app with Read Aloud feature
Google's Android Auto now supports the Adobe Acrobat app, which features a 'Read Aloud' function. This allows users to listen to PDF documents audibly while driving, increasing productivity for users who need to review documents on the go.
AI Agents Shift Workplace Focus from Specialists to Adaptable Polymaths
The rise of AI agents in the workplace is diminishing the need for highly specialized roles, instead favoring professionals with adaptability and the ability to work across multiple areas. This shift requires individuals to embrace continuous learning and decision-making capabilities that AI cannot replicate, redefining valuable skills in an AI-augmented environment.
Cybersecurity Leaders Prioritize Curiosity, Critical Thinking Over Certifications
Cybersecurity leaders are increasingly valuing curiosity-led critical thinking and the ability to make risk-based decisions over traditional certifications and experience in job candidates. This shift is driven by the rapidly evolving threat landscape, particularly with the rise of AI, which changes the nature of attacks and response methods. The focus is on adaptive skills that allow professionals to anticipate new threats and evaluate AI-generated outputs.
Home Battery Owners Report High Satisfaction Despite High Upfront Costs
A survey by Habitelligence found that 91% of home battery owners would purchase one again, with 71% stating their system exceeded expectations. This high satisfaction rate exists despite the significant upfront cost of home battery systems, which can range from thousands to tens of thousands of dollars.
Aston Martin F1 CIO Emphasizes Human Expertise in AI-Driven Racing Performance
Aston Martin Aramco F1's CIO, Fabrizio Pilotti, states that human expertise and handcraft remain central to gaining competitive advantage in Formula One, even with increasing AI integration. This approach highlights the importance of experienced professionals guiding AI applications to develop data-powered solutions for on-track challenges.
ArchEZ Linux Distribution Aims to Simplify Arch for New Users
ArchEZ is a new Arch-based Linux distribution designed to make Arch Linux accessible to beginners. It includes the KDE Plasma desktop environment and the Pamac GUI for application management, simplifying the user experience for those new to Linux.
Shadowfetch Linux distribution integrates local AI tools, faces early development challenges
Shadowfetch is a new Debian-based Linux distribution designed to simplify the installation and use of local AI models and agents. While it offers customizable setup profiles for various AI applications, the distribution is in early development and currently has significant installation issues, making it unsuitable for general use.
Tech Leaders Identify Three Key Roles for Success in the AI Agent Era
Tech leaders from EDF UK and Capita have identified three professional types crucial for success in the AI agent era: tech-savvy enablers, agentic course-correctors, and outcome-focused collaborators. These roles emphasize technical capabilities, understanding AI agent interactions, and focusing on business value. The insights highlight the evolving skill sets required as AI agents become more prevalent in workplaces.
Sideloading Apps on Android Auto Enhances Functionality
Users can sideload apps to Android Auto, expanding its functionality beyond the official catalog. This allows for activities like watching videos and browsing the web, improving the user experience in vehicles with limited app options.
Guide to Setting OpenAI API Usage Limits to Prevent Overspending
OpenAI API users can now implement usage limits to prevent unexpected bills from excessive API calls. This includes features such as spending alerts, rate limits, and structured usage tiers that help control spending as usage grows.
Claude's Record-a-Skill Feature Reduces Research Time, but Has Limitations
Claude's new Record-a-Skill feature allows users to create complex AI automations for tasks like sentiment analysis and quote aggregation, significantly reducing research time. While the feature simplifies automation compared to traditional scripting, it still requires tweaking and has potential limitations regarding UI changes.
BastionGuard 2.0 offers a comprehensive, free security suite for Linux desktops
BastionGuard 2.0, a free security platform for Linux desktops, was released on February 27, offering features like real-time scanning, ransomware protection, and a password manager. The platform aims to provide deterministic and explicit security for Linux users. This release is significant for Linux desktop users seeking an all-in-one security solution.
OpenFactory service allows users to build custom Linux distributions from a prompt or menu
OpenFactory, a new service in early alpha, enables users to create custom bootable Linux distributions, multi-node labs, and fleet deployments. It offers creation via AI prompt or selection menu, and allows testing in virtual machines and repeated builds. This service simplifies the process of tailoring Linux systems for specific needs without building from scratch.
Dicio: A Free and Open-Source Android Voice Assistant Alternative to Google Assistant
Dicio is a free, open-source voice assistant for Android that processes user input and generates output entirely on-device, offering a privacy-focused alternative to Google Assistant and Gemini. It handles various tasks like hands-free calling and internet searches, but currently lacks support for sending messages, composing emails via voice, and Android Auto integration.
Advanced iPhone Do Not Disturb Settings for Enhanced Focus
This guide details several advanced configurations for iPhone's Do Not Disturb (DND) mode, allowing users to customize notification silencing based on app usage, lock screen appearance, privacy preferences, and call exceptions. These settings provide more granular control over interruptions, helping users manage their attention more effectively.
ZDNET Ranks 1Password as Top Password Manager for 2026
ZDNET has identified 1Password as the best overall password manager for 2026, citing its user-friendly interface and comprehensive features. This ranking provides guidance for individuals seeking to improve their digital security through password management solutions.
Tips for Creating Effective AI-Generated Flyers
This article provides tips and prompt suggestions for creating flyers using AI tools that avoid common design flaws. It highlights that while AI can produce decent flyers, specific guidance and an understanding of design principles are necessary to achieve better results.
Apple Announces 2026 Sales Tax Holidays for Select Products in 10 U.S. States
Apple shared its 2026 sales tax holiday schedule, allowing tax-free purchases of specific products in 10 U.S. states between July and August. The initiative will include popular devices such as Macs and iPads, with varying dates and price limits depending on the state. This move provides financial relief for consumers amidst rising product prices.
How to Enable SIM Protection Settings on Verizon to Prevent SIM Swapping Attacks
Verizon Wireless offers specific settings, SIM Protection and Number Lock, to prevent unauthorized SIM swaps and device changes. Enabling these features helps protect mobile accounts and other linked services from fraudulent access by blocking attackers from intercepting two-factor authentication codes.
How to Access and Analyze Android 'dumpstate' Diagnostic Files
Android phones contain a hidden 'dumpstate' diagnostic file that provides detailed information on battery health, cache usage, and app activity. Accessing this log can help users identify root causes of performance issues and make informed decisions to improve phone health.
Affinity Image Editor Now Available on Linux via AppImage or Script Installation
Affinity, an image editor acquired by Canva in 2024, is now unofficially available for Linux users through AppImage or script installations. This provides a Photoshop alternative for Linux users who find GIMP's interface challenging.
Common Phone Charging Myths Debunked for Lithium-Ion Batteries
This article debunks six common myths about charging smartphones, clarifying practices that are often based on outdated nickel-cadmium battery technology. It explains that charging to 100% stresses lithium-ion batteries and draining them to 0% does not calibrate them, citing manufacturer documentation and battery research. This information helps users maintain their device's battery health and longevity.
How to Use Windows 11 System Restore to Undo System Changes
System Restore is a built-in Windows tool that creates snapshots of system files, settings, drivers, and applications, allowing users to revert their PC to a previous state if problems arise. This feature helps undo troublesome system changes but does not back up personal files.
Repurposing Intel-based Macs After macOS Updates End
This article outlines options for repurposing Intel-based Macs once they no longer receive macOS updates, specifically after macOS Sonoma. It suggests installing Linux or using the machine as a home cloud server to extend its usability.
ZimaOS offers a free, local, and private Google Drive alternative for network storage
ZimaOS is a free, Linux-based Network Attached Storage (NAS) platform designed for local file storage and privacy. It allows users to store sensitive data on their own network, reducing reliance on cloud services like Google Drive and preventing potential data use for LLM training.
Android Auto can function offline using pre-downloaded maps and media
Android Auto can operate without a mobile data connection by utilizing pre-downloaded maps and playlists, which helps in areas with no signal and reduces phone battery drain. However, this offline mode sacrifices real-time traffic updates and web-based assistant features.
Understanding mAh and its limited impact on smartphone battery life
Smartphone battery capacity, measured in milliampere-hours (mAh), indicates the amount of current a battery can provide for one hour. While a higher mAh suggests more power, factors like processor, display, software optimization, and usage patterns significantly influence actual battery longevity more than the raw mAh number. This information helps consumers understand that a larger mAh alone does not guarantee extended battery life.
Tips for speeding up Android phones beyond clearing system cache
This guide outlines methods to improve Android phone performance, including clearing app data, hibernating unused apps, and adjusting animation scales. These techniques offer ways to refresh device responsiveness without needing to upgrade hardware.
Samsung's Connectivity Labs tool used to diagnose and improve home Wi-Fi signal
A user leveraged Samsung's free Connectivity Labs diagnostic tool on a Galaxy phone to identify and resolve Wi-Fi dead spots and poor signal strength in a home office. The tool provides data points like signal strength heatmaps, which helped pinpoint optimal device placement for better internet reception. This demonstrates a practical application of built-in smartphone diagnostics for common connectivity issues.
Google Calendar features for productivity: attachments and appointment scheduling
Google Calendar offers features beyond basic event tracking, such as attaching files to events and using appointment schedules to coordinate meetings. These functionalities aim to reduce time spent on administrative tasks like searching for documents or arranging meeting times.
Understanding Spatial Audio: How It Works on Headphones and Speakers
Spatial audio, often associated with Dolby Atmos, provides immersive sound experiences through specific hardware and mixed content. Its implementation varies across devices and formats, requiring compatible streaming services for optimal listening.
Guide to Setting Up Android Auto Automations for Easier Driving
Android Auto now supports routines that automate multiple tasks during driving, such as sending messages and controlling devices. This capability streamlines common driving tasks, potentially improving safety and convenience for users.
Recovery Readiness Becomes New Standard for Cyber Resilience Amidst Evolving Ransomware Threats
Ransomware attacks increasingly target and succeed in deleting or tampering with backups, highlighting that backup alone is insufficient for disaster recovery. Organizations need to adopt modern resilience strategies that combine secure, immutable backups with rapid recovery capabilities to protect their businesses from prolonged downtime and data loss.