Brian Fagioli

SparkyLinux, a lightweight Linux distribution based on Debian, has released its latest point update, Sparky 7.5, codenamed "Orion Belt." This is the fifth update to the Sparky 7 series and focuses on improving stability and performance. As with previous versions, Sparky 7.5 is built upon Debian 12 "Bookworm," maintaining full compatibility with its parent distro.

For this release, Sparky 7.5 has updated its core components and applications. Notably, it ships with the Linux kernel 6.1.106 LTS for PCs, with other kernel versions, such as 6.11.0 and 5.15.167-LTS, available in Sparky repositories. ARM devices running Sparky can utilize the 6.6.47 LTS kernel. LibreOffice remains a central part of the productivity suite, though users can find newer versions in the backports repo. Other software updates include KDE Plasma 5.27.5, LXQt 1.2.0, MATE 1.26, Xfce 4.18, and Openbox 3.6.1.

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Google has made a move toward a passwordless future by expanding its passkey support to desktop devices. Until now, passkeys could only be saved to Google Password Manager on Android devices, requiring users to scan a QR code from an Android phone to access them on other platforms. However, thanks to a new update, passkeys can now be saved and managed directly on desktop systems running Windows, macOS, and Linux. ChromeOS is also available for testing in the Beta channel.

Passkeys are designed to offer a more secure and user-friendly way of signing in to websites and apps by using biometric methods like fingerprints, facial recognition, or a screen lock instead of traditional passwords. This makes logging in as simple as unlocking your device.

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Sony is gearing up for a massive celebration as the PlayStation brand approaches its 30th anniversary. To mark this milestone, the company is launching a special PlayStation 30th Anniversary Collection, featuring exclusive, limited-edition products inspired by the original PlayStation console that debuted on December 3, 1994. These products bring a nostalgic design into the cutting-edge world of PS5 hardware.

The PlayStation 30th Anniversary Collection will include various hardware bundles, such as the PlayStation 5 Pro Console -- 30th Anniversary Limited Edition Bundle, which comes packed with a 2TB SSD, Wi-Fi 7 compatibility, and a range of accessories like the DualSense wireless controller and a limited edition poster. Additionally, a PlayStation 5 Digital Edition Bundle with a 1TB SSD will be available.

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Zorin OS 17.2 has officially launched, bringing a host of enhancements aimed at improving both the desktop experience and under-the-hood performance. With a focus on customization, speed, and security, this new release positions itself as a strong alternative to Microsoft Windows 11.

One of the standout features in Zorin OS 17.2 is the revamped Zorin Appearance, which allows users to personalize their desktop environment more than ever. Users can now change their cursor theme easily, thanks to a new option in the “Themes” section. A new Third-Party Theme Installation Guide has also been introduced, making it easier to install additional themes and apply custom styles to native apps.

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Bose is expanding its QuietComfort line with the launch of its new, designed for everyday use. Available for $179 here, these earbuds offer top-tier audio performance, featuring the company's renowned noise cancellation technology. Available in Black, White Smoke, and Chilled Lilac, they are available for purchase now.

The QC Earbuds come packed with features, including customizable tap controls, voice commands, and a wireless charging case. With up to 8.5 hours of battery life, they promise to keep you connected throughout the day. The wireless charging case provides an additional 2.5 charges, with a 20-minute quick charge delivering up to three hours of listening time. The buds also feature Bluetooth 5.3, providing a range of up to 30 feet and multipoint connectivity for seamless switching between devices.

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If you want to track your valuables without worry, the KeyBudz Covert Mount for AirTag is a top-tier solution. Crafted from fiberglass-reinforced copolymer, this mount can withstand extreme environments, including submersion in water and harsh temperatures. Designed for adventurers and everyday users alike, this durable accessory promises to keep your AirTag secure in the toughest conditions.

What truly sets the Covert Mount apart is its IP-68 waterproof rating. This rating means the mount can be submerged underwater for over 60 days while maintaining a firm grip on various surfaces, thanks to the included 3M VHB adhesive. The adhesive ensures a reliable, permanent hold on a range of materials, including metals, glass, plastics, and painted surfaces. Whether you're attaching it to your bike, electric scooter, skis, or even construction equipment, the Covert Mount has you covered.

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Aluratek has introduced the PicStick Wireless HDTV Photo and Video Viewer, a device that effectively transforms any HDTV into a digital picture frame. The PicStick offers a wireless solution for sharing and displaying photos and videos on a larger screen. By connecting the device to an HDTV’s HDMI port and using the Frametime app, users can easily transmit media from smartphones, tablets, or computers, making it a practical tool for displaying digital content.

The PicStick eliminates the need for cables and complex setups, offering a more seamless experience for wireless transmission of photos and videos. Installation is straightforward, allowing users to enjoy their media on an HDTV in just a few minutes.

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Reolink has unveiled its latest product -- the industry's first Smart 2K 4MP Battery Doorbell with a 1:1 aspect ratio. This new addition to Reolink's growing lineup offers an impressive 2K 4MP high-definition resolution with an expanded head-to-toe view, alongside dual-band Wi-Fi connectivity. It’s designed to provide homeowners with enhanced security and convenience, serving as an advanced guard for the front door.

Priced at $145.99 (but currently on sale for $124.09), the Reolink Battery Doorbell is now available for pre-order here in the United States and Europe, with plans to launch in Australia and Canada next month. It delivers a unique combination of a 1:1 aspect ratio and 150-degree field of view, allowing users to see more at their doorstep than conventional doorbell cameras.

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Logitech has launched the Signature Slim Combo MK955 for Business Copilot Edition, a keyboard and mouse combo designed to enhance productivity for Windows users. The combo features a dedicated Copilot key, allowing users to quickly access Microsoft's Copilot AI tool.

The Signature Slim Combo MK955 aims to help employees work quietly and efficiently. The keyboard offers a laptop-like typing experience, while the mouse includes SmartWheel technology for precise scrolling. Shortcut keys on the keyboard allow for quick access to common functions, such as volume control and screenshot capture.

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The latest version of the GNOME desktop environment, GNOME 47, is now available, introducing several enhancements and user-focused improvements. This release, nicknamed “Denver,” honors the organizers of GUADEC 2024 and represents six months of dedicated work by the GNOME community.

One of the standout features in GNOME 47 is the addition of accent colors, allowing users to customize the blue interface with a range of alternative hues. Another key enhancement is better support for lower-resolution screens, ensuring that app icons and UI elements are more visible and easier to interact with. GNOME 47 also introduces hardware encoding for screen recording, optimizing performance on Intel and AMD GPUs, and making it easier to capture screencasts without impacting system responsiveness.

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Microsoft and BlackRock's growing partnership on AI infrastructure may raise a few eyebrows, but should it really spark concern? With the recent announcement of the Global AI Infrastructure Investment Partnership (GAIIP), these corporate titans have aligned with Global Infrastructure Partners (GIP) and MGX to dive headfirst into AI development. They plan to pour billions into massive data centers and new energy infrastructure, with the goal of dominating the future of artificial intelligence.

But this alliance could mean more than just advancements in technology. The partnership initially aims to leverage $30 billion in private equity, with an eye toward unlocking a staggering $100 billion in total investment potential. That’s a massive financial influx designed to consolidate power in the hands of a few major players. And who benefits? Microsoft and BlackRock, alongside their global allies, could soon hold an outsized influence on critical AI infrastructure that the world will come to rely on.

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ZAGG has launched a new line of custom embroidered cases for $79.99 (available here), offering iPhone users a unique blend of protection and personalized design. Known for creating innovative mobile accessories, ZAGG’s latest offering lets customers customize their cases with embroidered designs, initials, or personal messages.

The new cases, made specifically for the iPhone 16 series, allow users to express their style while keeping their devices safe. "Our Custom Embroidered Cases turn an everyday accessory into a personal statement, blending style, creativity, and individuality," said Brad Bell, senior vice president of global marketing for ZAGG.

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Micron has announced the launch of its Crucial P310 2280 Gen4 NVMe SSD, a high-speed solid-state drive that aims to bring gaming-level performance to a wider range of users, including students, creatives, and gamers. The new SSD offers a big speed boost compared to previous models, delivering up to two times faster performance than Gen3 SSDs and offering a 40 percent speed improvement over Micron's Crucial P3 Plus.

The Crucial P310 2280 boasts read speeds of 7,100MB/s and write speeds of 6,000MB/s, making it a strong option for those who rely on fast data transfers, boot times, and application performance. Available in capacities up to 2TB, it offers plenty of storage for heavy users without requiring a steep investment.

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Logitech G has officially announced the G915 X gaming keyboards. These new models stand out with ultra-thin 23mm height and combines the latest gaming technology with premium materials for an elevated gaming experience.

Building on the success of the original G915 LIGHTSPEED, which launched in 2019, the G915 X incorporates several improvements based on feedback from the gaming community. "When the G915 LIGHTSPEED keyboard was released, it was revolutionary for low-profile gaming. We've listened to customers and are thrilled to introduce the G915 X, featuring the improvements gamers asked for," said Arnaud Perret-Gentil, Head of PC Gaming at Logitech G.

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Logitech G has announced the launch of its latest PRO Series gaming gear. The new lineup features the PRO X SUPERLIGHT 2 DEX gaming mouse, the PRO 2 LIGHTSPEED gaming mouse, and the PRO X TKL RAPID gaming keyboard, all developed to meet the high demands of competitive gamers.

Chris Pate, Head of PRO Series Product Development at Logitech G, said, “We pour a lot into our PRO series products, focusing on innovations that deliver immediate performance gains by forming deep partnerships with pros to meet their exacting needs. This research and design practice not only allows us to identify and create product breakthroughs but also serves as a performance test bed that ultimately serves the entire gaming community.”

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