gHacks Technology News

Steam has added seven new free-to-play titles to its New & Featured section. The games launched over the past few days and are available to download at no cost, without limited-time promotions or trials.

The releases come from independent developers and cover a wide range of genres, from co-op action and simulation to short narrative experiences and low-pressure puzzle games. All seven titles are free to keep once added to a library.

The newly added free games

• LAVALAMP - A first-person walking simulator focused on exploration and environmental interaction, built around a highly stylized and colorful visual presentation.
• Rogue Masters - A six-player co-op horde game featuring souls-like combat elements and character customization, designed for multiplayer sessions.
• Space Station: Beyond - A management and survival game set on a failing space station, with players handling multiple roles as systems break down.
• Dreadmyst - A free fantasy MMORPG offering classes, dungeons, and character customization, with the developer stating there are no plans for paid monetization.
• Run Coffee Run - A first-person platformer built around movement challenges, where collecting coffee is required to progress.
• Everyday Devil - A short, story-driven psychological horror experience designed to be completed in a single sitting.
• 100 Cats Lost In England Find & Color - A relaxed hidden-object game focused on finding and coloring cats within illustrated scenes.

All seven titles have been featured in Steam's discovery sections, making them easier to find without searching by name. As with most free indie releases, quality and scope vary, but the lack of cost lowers the barrier to experimentation.

At the time of writing, Steam is not running any free-to-keep promotions for normally paid games, but newly released free titles continue to appear regularly in the store's New & Trending listings.

Thank you for being a Ghacks reader. The post Steam Adds 7 New Free Games You Can Play Right Now appeared first on gHacks Technology News.

Older PCs that struggle with modern versions of Windows often remain fully usable with Linux. Systems that run hot, idle with high CPU usage, or consume several gigabytes of memory under Windows can become quiet and responsive again after switching to a lightweight Linux distribution.

This is not limited to very old hardware. Machines that technically support Windows 11 can still suffer from background services, update overhead, and bundled features that consume resources even when idle. Linux distributions typically avoid that overhead and allow users to decide what runs on their system.

On affected systems, the most noticeable change is immediate. Fan noise drops, idle memory usage falls significantly, and basic tasks stop lagging. These improvements tend to persist over time rather than degrade after months of use.

Rolling updates without system slowdowns

Linux handles updates differently from Windows. Users choose when updates are installed, and updates do not block system use while running. On rolling-release distributions based on Arch Linux, there is only one continuously updated version rather than periodic feature upgrades.

System and application updates are handled through a package manager. Running a single update command upgrades the entire system without reinstalling the operating system or introducing parallel legacy components. This avoids the accumulation of outdated libraries and background services that can slow systems over time.

Because updates are incremental and consistent, systems stay current without the performance regressions commonly associated with major OS upgrades.

Modern software on aging hardware

Linux continues to support hardware that no longer receives modern Windows versions. PCs originally shipped with Windows 7 or earlier can still run current browsers, productivity tools, and development software on Linux.

There are also distributions designed specifically for low-resource systems. Lightweight environments and minimal background services allow usable performance even on machines with limited RAM or older CPUs. Hardware compatibility is generally strong, with most systems working out of the box.

This makes Linux a practical option for extending the life of laptops and desktops that would otherwise be retired due to software limitations rather than hardware failure.

Why performance stays consistent

Windows systems often accumulate leftover files, registry entries, and background processes over time. Uninstalled applications may leave services or configuration data behind, and system components are rarely removed once installed.

Linux avoids this through centralized package management. Software installation, removal, and updates are handled by the same system tools, which cleanly remove dependencies that are no longer needed. There is no equivalent to a global registry that grows indefinitely.

File systems commonly used on Linux also handle fragmentation differently, reducing long-term performance degradation without requiring manual maintenance.

Lower operating system overhead

Linux distributions generally consume fewer resources at idle. While Windows systems often idle at several gigabytes of memory usage, many Linux desktops idle at a fraction of that. Lightweight setups can run comfortably under 1 GB of RAM.

Applications themselves use similar resources regardless of platform, but the operating system overhead is lower. That leaves more capacity for actual workloads and reduces thermal stress on older hardware.

Linux does not prevent hardware aging, but it avoids accelerating it through unnecessary background activity. For systems that feel slow primarily due to software overhead, switching to Linux can restore responsiveness and keep it stable long-term.

Interesting to see who the Linux user is in 2026 and why they find it better than Windows.

Share below your experience.

Thank you for being a Ghacks reader. The post Linux Restores Performance on Older PCs and Keeps Them Fast appeared first on gHacks Technology News.

YouTube has introduced a new search filter that allows users to exclude Shorts from search results. The option separates long-form videos from short-form clips, making it easier to find standard videos without Shorts mixed into the results.

The change is part of a broader update to YouTube's search filters and sorting options. It applies to both desktop and mobile versions of the service.

Shorts cannot be disabled globally. The filter only affects the current search and must be re-enabled each time a new search is performed.

How to filter Shorts out of YouTube search

The filter is available directly from search results.

1. Open YouTube and perform a search.
2. Select Videos from the filter options shown at the top of the results.
3. The results reload to show only long-form videos, excluding Shorts.

The same option is also available through the full filter menu. On desktop, select Filters in the search results and choose Videos under Type. On mobile, open the three-dot menu, select Search filters, and choose Videos.

There is no option to make this the default behavior. Leaving the search page or starting a new search resets the filter.

Other changes to YouTube search filters

Alongside the Shorts filter, YouTube has adjusted several existing search controls. The Sort by menu has been renamed to Prioritize, and the View count option is now labeled Popularity. YouTube says popularity takes multiple signals into account, including watch time, rather than relying only on raw views.

YouTube has also removed the Upload date - Last hour and Sort by rating options. Videos uploaded recently can still be found using the remaining upload date filters.

YouTube has not said whether the Shorts filter will become persistent or whether additional controls will be added in the future.

Thank you for being a Ghacks reader. The post YouTube Adds a Search Filter to Hide Shorts from Results appeared first on gHacks Technology News.

Google has announced a new set of AI features for Gmail that expand the service beyond traditional email. The update introduces AI-assisted writing, conversational inbox search, and automated task suggestions, all powered by Google's latest Gemini model.

The rollout starts in the United States and is limited to English at launch. Google says support for additional languages and regions is planned, but no timeline has been provided.

The most widely available feature is an expanded Help Me Write tool. Gmail can now learn from a user's writing style to offer more personalized suggestions when composing emails. The feature works inline and can adjust tone and phrasing in real time, with users retaining the ability to edit or disable it.

More advanced AI features are tied to Google's paid subscriptions. Gmail users on Pro and Ultra plans gain access to conversational search inside the inbox. This allows users to ask natural-language questions in the search bar and receive summarized answers based on their emails, similar to the AI Overviews already used in Google Search.

Google is also testing an AI Inbox feature with a limited group of U.S. users. When enabled, Gmail scans incoming messages to suggest daily to-do lists and highlight topics that may require follow-up. Google describes this as a proactive layer that surfaces tasks without manual sorting or filtering.

All of the new Gmail features are powered by Gemini 3, which Google integrated more broadly into its products late last year. The same model underpins recent changes to Google Search and other Workspace tools.

Google acknowledges that deeper AI integration raises concerns around accuracy and privacy. The company says users can review or disable AI-generated content and claims that Gmail data analyzed by these features is not used to train Gemini models. Google also states that inbox data remains isolated behind what it calls an "engineering privacy" barrier.

The new AI features are rolling out gradually. Free Gmail users will see limited changes for now, while paid subscribers receive the most significant additions. Google has not said when the AI Inbox feature will move beyond testing or whether it will eventually be available to all users.

Thank you for being a Ghacks reader. The post Google Adds New AI Features to Gmail and Pushes It Toward a Personal Assistant appeared first on gHacks Technology News.

Microsoft and PayPal have announced Copilot Checkout, a new purchasing flow that allows users to buy products directly inside Microsoft's Copilot chatbot. The feature is rolling out now in the United States.

Copilot Checkout is designed to remove the need to leave the chat interface when shopping. Users can ask Copilot for product recommendations, review pricing details, including tax and shipping, and complete the transaction using PayPal without being redirected to a retailer's website.

The feature is part of Microsoft's broader push toward what it describes as agentic AI, where AI systems handle multi-step tasks on behalf of users. In this case, Copilot can guide product discovery and complete checkout within a single conversation.

According to Microsoft, Copilot Checkout allows merchants to remain the merchant of record while shifting the purchasing experience into Copilot. Supported commerce platforms include Shopify and Stripe, with PayPal handling payments. Participating retailers at launch include brands such as Urban Outfitters, Anthropologie, Ashley Furniture, and selected Etsy sellers.

From a user perspective, the flow is straightforward. A user can ask Copilot for a product recommendation, select an option suggested by the chatbot, and see a purchase panel appear in-line. The panel shows the final price and offers PayPal as the payment method, completing the purchase without opening a browser tab.

Merchants participating in the program can also customize how their products are presented. Microsoft says retailers can influence so-called "brand agents" so that shopping guidance reflects a brand's preferred tone and messaging. Merchants using supported platforms may be enrolled automatically, with an opt-out option available.

PayPal positions the integration as a way to prepare its merchant ecosystem for AI-driven commerce. The company says the partnership allows merchants to scale within Copilot while keeping existing payment and fulfillment systems in place.

Copilot Checkout does not replace traditional online stores. Instead, it adds an alternative purchase channel that sits inside Copilot, similar to how shopping features have been integrated into search engines and social platforms. Microsoft has not stated whether the feature will be optional for users or how prominently it will be surfaced inside Copilot by default.

The rollout is currently limited to the U.S., and Microsoft has not provided a timeline for availability in other regions.

Thank you for being a Ghacks reader. The post Microsoft and PayPal Launch Copilot Checkout for In-Chat Purchases appeared first on gHacks Technology News.

Sony has confirmed the PlayStation Plus Essential free games for January 2026. The lineup includes one established racing title, one family-oriented platformer remake, and one critically well-received survival sandbox game. Together, the selection targets casual players, younger audiences, and fans of long-term progression games.

The January lineup continues Sony's recent pattern of mixing older high-profile releases with newer or previously unavailable titles, rather than focusing on a single genre or audience.

The games are available to PlayStation Plus Essential subscribers for the month once claimed and remain playable as long as the subscription is active.

Need for Speed Unbound

Need for Speed Unbound is the most recognizable title in the January lineup. Originally released in late 2022, it blends arcade-style racing with an open-world structure and a distinctive visual style that mixes realistic cars with stylized effects.

The game previously rotated through PlayStation Plus Extra and Premium, which means some subscribers may already have access or have played it. For others, it offers a polished racing experience with a focus on customization, story-driven events, and online multiplayer. While it does not significantly reinvent the franchise, it provides accessible gameplay that suits casual racing fans.

Disney Epic Mickey: Rebrushed

Disney Epic Mickey: Rebrushed is a remake of the 2010 Epic Mickey, updated for modern platforms. Players control Mickey Mouse in a 3D platformer built around exploration, light combat, and environmental interaction using a magical paintbrush.

The remake refines mechanics that were criticized in the original release and adds visual improvements and additional content. Its simple controls, recognizable characters, and colorful environments make it well suited for younger players or those looking for a slower-paced platforming game. At the same time, it retains enough depth and nostalgia to appeal to long-time Disney and PlayStation fans.

Core Keeper

Core Keeper is the most critically acclaimed title in the January lineup. It is a top-down survival and crafting game set in a procedurally generated underground world. Players gather resources, build bases, craft equipment, and defeat bosses to unlock new areas.

The game supports online co-op for up to eight players, which makes it particularly notable as a PlayStation Plus inclusion. Its progression-focused gameplay loop and pixel-art presentation place it alongside games like Terraria and Stardew Valley, while offering more structured combat and boss encounters.

Core Keeper also continues to receive updates across platforms, which adds value for players who prefer games that evolve over time.

The January 2026 PlayStation Plus Essential lineup covers a wide range of tastes, with one game focused on quick sessions, one aimed at family-friendly play, and one built for longer-term cooperative progression.

Thank you for being a Ghacks reader. The post PS Plus Essential Free Games for January 2026 Cover Three Distinct Playstyles appeared first on gHacks Technology News.

Windows 11 now exposes AI features across the operating system. Copilot is pinned to the taskbar, appears in Settings, and is integrated into bundled apps such as Notepad and Paint. There is no global switch to disable all of this, and turning off individual features does not stop them from being reinstalled by updates.

A free community script called RemoveWindowsAI addresses that gap. It disables Windows AI features at the system level and then configures Windows Update to avoid reinstalling them. The script targets Copilot, Recall, and Copilot integrations inside core applications, with options to disable everything or only selected components.

RemoveWindowsAI works by applying a set of registry changes rather than modifying system files. The goal is to remove visible AI entry points and keep them disabled across cumulative updates, which is something Windows does not currently support through official settings.

The script is designed for users who want Windows to behave like a traditional desktop operating system, without persistent prompts or UI elements tied to Microsoft's AI features.

What the script changes

When run with all options enabled, RemoveWindowsAI removes Copilot from the taskbar and uninstalls the Copilot app entirely. References to Copilot disappear from the Settings app, and AI buttons inside applications such as Notepad and Paint are disabled.

The script also attempts to prevent those components from returning. After disabling the features, it applies update-related workarounds so Windows Update does not automatically reinstall the removed AI packages. This matters because Copilot and related features are often restored during monthly updates.

Changes are applied immediately, and the script reports progress directly in the PowerShell window. No reboot is usually required, although some app-level changes may only be visible after restarting the affected applications.

Running RemoveWindowsAI

RemoveWindowsAI must be run using Windows PowerShell 5.1. Systems that only use the default PowerShell included with Windows are already compatible. PowerShell 7 is not supported.

To use the script:

1. Open Windows PowerShell as an administrator.
2. Confirm the version is PowerShell 5.1.
3. Copy the install command from the RemoveWindowsAI project page. The command is not repeated here because it may change.
4. Paste the command into PowerShell and run it.
5. Select which AI features to disable when the menu appears.

The script can be rerun later to re-enable features, though future Windows updates may still require reapplying the changes.

Impact and limitations

The main advantage is consistency. Windows provides individual toggles for some AI features, but they do not cover all integrations and are frequently reset. RemoveWindowsAI applies a single set of changes that affect the entire system.

There are limitations. The script is unofficial and relies on current Windows behavior. Feature updates or major version upgrades can reintroduce AI components or override update blocks. New AI features added by Microsoft may not be covered until the script is updated.

Microsoft does not offer a supported way to disable all AI features globally, and this approach remains dependent on community maintenance.

Thank you for being a Ghacks reader. The post A Free Script Disables Built-In AI Features Across Windows 11 appeared first on gHacks Technology News.

After more than a decade of development and multiple delays, Grand Theft Auto 6 is finally expected to launch in 2026. That makes Take-Two Interactive's upcoming earnings call on February 3 an important date for anyone closely following the game's progress.

While earnings calls are primarily meant for investors, they've become a recurring source of official GTA 6 updates. Past calls have coincided with major announcements, including release window changes and the surprise drop of trailers. As a result, expectations around this first earnings call of 2026 are understandably high.

Why the February 3 Earnings Call Matters

Take-Two Interactive, the parent company of Rockstar Games, uses quarterly earnings calls to outline its release roadmap and financial outlook. Historically, GTA 6 news has surfaced during these briefings, even if indirectly.

Notably:

• GTA 6's second trailer followed a May earnings call in 2025
• The game's delay to November 2026 was confirmed after a November earnings call

With 2026 now positioned as the launch year, February's call could clarify whether development and marketing are proceeding as planned, or if further adjustments are being considered.

What to Expect (and What Not to)

A new trailer immediately following the February call would strongly suggest that Rockstar is preparing to ramp up marketing and lock in the November release window. Even a brief mention of GTA 6 during the call would be seen as a positive signal.

That said, silence in February wouldn't necessarily spell trouble. Historically, May has been the more critical month for major GTA announcements. If the May 2026 earnings call passes without updates or marketing movement, concerns about another delay would be more justified.

GTA 6's Recent Official Timeline

Here's how key announcements have unfolded so far:

• December 2023 - GTA 6 officially revealed with Trailer 1
• May 2024 - Release window set for 2025
• May 2025 - Delay announced, pushing release to May 2026
• May 2025 - Trailer 2 released shortly after
• November 2025 - Second delay confirmed, moving launch to November 2026

This pattern explains why February 3 has drawn so much attention from fans.

The Bottom Line

February 3 is unlikely to be a make-or-break moment for GTA 6, but it could offer early signals about how confident Rockstar and Rockstar Games are in their current timeline. A quiet call doesn't mean disaster-but meaningful updates would go a long way toward easing concerns after years of delays.

For now, May remains the month to watch.

Are you waiting for GTA 6?

Thank you for being a Ghacks reader. The post February 3 Could Be a Key Moment for GTA 6’s 2026 Release Plans appeared first on gHacks Technology News.

Running out of HDMI ports on a TV is easy to do. Game consoles, streaming boxes, PCs, and sound systems quickly fill up the available inputs, and constantly unplugging cables gets old fast. Fortunately, you don't need to replace your TV to fix the problem.

There are three realistic ways to expand your HDMI connectivity, each with its own trade-offs.

HDMI switches are the easiest solution

An HDMI switch is the simplest and most affordable way to add more ports. You connect multiple devices to the switch, plug the switch into a single HDMI port on your TV, and select which device you want to use.

For most users, this is more than enough. Basic models are inexpensive and easy to use, while mid-range switches offer four or five inputs and include a remote. Many modern switches support 4K at 60Hz, which is sufficient for streaming devices and older consoles.

The main thing to watch for is feature support. Not every switch handles HDR, surround sound, or high refresh rates like 4K at 120Hz. If you're using newer consoles or a gaming PC, make sure the switch explicitly supports those features. It's also smart to buy a switch with more inputs than you currently need, as devices tend to accumulate over time.

AV receivers work, but only if you need better audio

AV receivers can also function as HDMI hubs. Most models include multiple HDMI inputs and a single output to the TV, effectively acting as a high-end switch while also managing audio.

However, buying a receiver just to gain HDMI ports rarely makes sense. They're far more expensive than HDMI switches and take up more space. Where they shine is in setups where audio quality matters. If you're planning to use speakers or upgrade your home audio, an AV receiver solves both sound and connectivity in one device.

Before buying, check that the receiver supports HDMI passthrough and the video features you need, especially if you care about HDR or high refresh rates.

Soundbars with HDMI inputs are a niche option

Some soundbars include multiple HDMI inputs alongside eARC support. In theory, this lets the soundbar handle both audio and video while adding extra ports.

In practice, this option is limited. Many soundbars only include one HDMI input, and models with two or three inputs are often expensive. Passthrough support can also be inconsistent, especially for gaming features like VRR or 4K at 120Hz.

Soundbars make sense if you already want one and don't need advanced video features. Otherwise, they're usually not the best way to expand HDMI connectivity.

The bottom line

For most people, an HDMI switch is the best answer. It's cheap, simple, and effective. AV receivers are worth considering only if you also want better audio, while soundbars with HDMI inputs tend to be the least flexible option.

If your TV still meets your needs, adding more HDMI ports is a small upgrade that can save a lot of frustration-and it doesn't require buying a new display.

Thank you for being a Ghacks reader. The post 3 Practical Ways to Add More HDMI Ports to Your TV appeared first on gHacks Technology News.

OpenAI has rolled out ChatGPT Health, a new, dedicated health experience inside ChatGPT that connects the AI assistant with personal health data from services like Apple Health, MyFitnessPal, and Weight Watchers. The feature is designed to help users make better sense of their health and wellness data, without positioning itself as a replacement for professional medical care.

According to OpenAI, more than 230 million people ask ChatGPT health-related questions every week. ChatGPT Health is meant to address that demand in a more structured and privacy-conscious way, offering health-focused responses informed by user-approved data sources rather than generic prompts alone.

What ChatGPT Health is meant to do

ChatGPT Health lives in a separate area of the ChatGPT experience, rather than being mixed in with general conversations. OpenAI says this separation is intentional, both for usability and for privacy. The goal is to give users a place where health-related questions, context, and data can come together without bleeding into other uses of the AI.

The feature is explicitly framed as supportive, not diagnostic. OpenAI is careful to state that ChatGPT Health is not intended to diagnose conditions or prescribe treatment. Instead, it focuses on helping users understand patterns, prepare for conversations with clinicians, and make sense of health data they already have access to.

That positioning reflects how many people already use AI tools for health questions: as a first stop for information, clarification, or reassurance before deciding whether to seek professional care.

Apple Health and partner integrations

At launch, ChatGPT Health relies on integrations with third-party health and fitness platforms. Apple Health is one of the most notable, given how much data it can aggregate from iPhones, Apple Watches, and third-party apps. Other supported partners include Function, MyFitnessPal, and Weight Watchers, with OpenAI indicating that more integrations are planned over time.

Users remain in control of what data is shared. Connecting a service is optional, and each partner can be enabled or disabled individually. If a user chooses not to connect any health platforms, ChatGPT Health can still be used in a more general, data-free mode.

When connected, the idea is that ChatGPT can use trends and summaries from those services to provide more relevant responses. For example, it might help contextualize activity levels, nutrition logs, or sleep patterns without requiring users to manually explain everything in text.

Built with medical guidance in mind

OpenAI says ChatGPT Health was developed over a two-year period with extensive input from medical professionals. More than 260 physicians across 60 countries and dozens of specialties contributed feedback, reviewing model outputs hundreds of thousands of times across a wide range of health-related topics.

That input shaped not just what the system can answer, but how it answers. OpenAI highlights areas such as tone, clarity, and when to encourage follow-up with a healthcare provider. The emphasis is on avoiding false certainty and recognizing situations where AI guidance should defer to professional care.

This approach aligns with a broader trend in health-focused software, where safety and escalation paths are just as important as the information itself.

Stronger privacy boundaries than standard chats

One of the most significant differences between ChatGPT Health and normal ChatGPT conversations is how data is handled. OpenAI says health conversations are protected with purpose-built encryption and kept isolated from the rest of a user's chat history.

Crucially, OpenAI states that conversations within ChatGPT Health are not used to train its foundation models. That is a notable distinction at a time when concerns around AI training data and personal information continue to grow, especially in sensitive areas like health.

The dedicated space also makes it easier for users to understand when they are in a health context, rather than accidentally sharing personal data in a general-purpose chat.

Limited rollout, broader availability later

ChatGPT Health is not available to everyone immediately. OpenAI is rolling the feature out to a limited group of users first, with plans to expand access gradually. This staged approach likely reflects both technical caution and regulatory sensitivity, given the nature of health data and the variety of rules governing it across regions.

There has been no detailed timeline shared for when the feature will reach all ChatGPT users, or whether availability will vary by country depending on data protection laws and partner support.

Why this matters

ChatGPT Health is a clear signal that OpenAI sees health and wellness as a major long-term use case for AI assistants. Rather than bolting health features onto a general chatbot, OpenAI is carving out a dedicated experience with stricter privacy rules and clearer boundaries.

The Apple Health integration, in particular, puts ChatGPT Health in an interesting position. Apple has traditionally kept tight control over how health data is accessed and used, and its inclusion suggests a level of confidence in the feature's privacy model.

At the same time, this also raises familiar questions. Some users will be comfortable letting an AI system see aggregated health data if it helps them stay informed or prepared. Others will see that level of access as a step too far, regardless of encryption and assurances.

ChatGPT Health does not force that choice. It exists as an opt-in layer, leaving it up to users to decide how much context they want to share and how they want to use AI in managing their health information.

Thank you for being a Ghacks reader. The post ChatGPT Health Launches With Apple Health Integration appeared first on gHacks Technology News.

CES has always been a mix of serious innovation, ambitious concepts, and products that exist mostly to grab attention. The Best of CES 2026 awards cut through that noise by focusing on what actually stood out after days of hands-on demos, briefings, and long walks across the Las Vegas Convention Center.

This year's winners were selected by experts from outlets including CNET, PCMag, Mashable, ZDNET, and Lifehacker, with awards spanning 22 categories plus a single Best Overall winner. The list paints a clear picture of where consumer and enterprise technology is heading in 2026: more local AI, lighter and more modular hardware, practical robotics, and a renewed focus on solving everyday problems rather than chasing specs alone.

AI quietly dominated, but not always in obvious ways

Artificial intelligence was everywhere at CES 2026, but the Best of CES winners show a shift away from flashy demos toward more integrated, usable implementations. In the Best AI Tech category, Lenovo's Qira assistant stood out for blending on-device and cloud AI into a single system that follows users across phones, tablets, and PCs without forcing them to think about where processing happens.

At the silicon level, platforms like Intel's Core Ultra 300 "Panther Lake," Qualcomm's Snapdragon X2 Plus, and AMD's Ryzen AI Max+ chips were recognized not just for raw TOPS numbers, but for making local AI workloads practical in thinner, more affordable devices. This trend showed up across categories, from laptops and mobile devices to robotics and smart home tech.

Laptops got lighter, more modular, and more repairable

The Best Laptop category reflected a clear design philosophy change. Lenovo's ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 14 Aura Edition won for embracing modularity and serviceability, proving that premium business laptops do not have to be sealed, disposable devices. The ability to replace individual components aligns closely with sustainability goals and right-to-repair efforts that gained momentum throughout 2025.

Other finalists, such as dual-screen and rollable-display laptops, showed that experimentation is still alive, but the winner emphasized practicality over spectacle. Thin, powerful laptops that can be maintained over years, not just replaced, resonated most with judges.

Robots moved beyond novelty into real jobs

Robotics had one of its strongest showings in years. Boston Dynamics' Atlas humanoid robot took the Best Robot award, not because it danced or performed tricks, but because it is already being prepared for real deployment in manufacturing environments.

Unlike earlier humanoid concepts, Atlas demonstrated stability, repeatability, and task-focused movement, signaling that robots are finally crossing from demo stage into practical use. Other winners in sustainability and yard tech reinforced this theme, with robots designed to clean pools, mow lawns, and monitor ecosystems with minimal human intervention.

TVs and displays pushed color and flexibility, not just size

TV technology at CES 2026 leaned heavily into color accuracy, brightness, and installation flexibility rather than chasing resolution alone. Samsung's S95H OLED won Best TV or Home Theater Tech by combining higher brightness, wired and wireless connectivity options, and support for art-display modes without burn-in concerns.

RGB-based display technologies from multiple manufacturers also earned recognition, showing that the industry is serious about expanding color gamuts beyond traditional OLED and mini-LED approaches. These advances matter less on spec sheets and more in real-world viewing, especially in brighter rooms.

Gaming innovation focused on form factors, not just power

Gaming winners reflected a similar maturity. Instead of simply rewarding the most powerful hardware, the judges highlighted devices that rethink how and where games are played. Lenovo's Legion Pro Rollable concept took Best Gaming by bringing ultrawide gaming to a laptop without permanently increasing its footprint.

Augmented reality gaming accessories and dual-screen designs also earned attention, reinforcing that portability and flexibility are becoming just as important as raw GPU performance for players who game across multiple environments.

Health, accessibility, and everyday problems took center stage

Some of the most compelling winners were not flashy at all. Devices like Coro, which helps parents measure infant feeding, and Peri, a wearable designed to track perimenopause symptoms, showed how technology is increasingly addressing overlooked health needs.

In accessibility and transportation, autonomous mobility aids and electric wheelchair attachments demonstrated how AI and robotics can improve independence rather than simply automate tasks for convenience.

Startups and "weird tech" still had a place

CES would not be CES without some strange ideas, and the Best Weird Tech category delivered exactly that. While not every concept is destined for mass adoption, the presence of experimental products alongside serious enterprise tools highlights the role CES still plays as a testing ground for unconventional ideas.

At the same time, the Best Startup category rewarded companies focused on safety, sustainability, and practical utility, including portable allergen detection and compact recycling solutions.

What the Best of CES 2026 list really says

Taken together, the Best of CES 2026 winners point to a technology industry that is becoming more grounded. AI is no longer treated as a standalone feature, but as infrastructure baked into hardware. Devices are getting lighter, more repairable, and more specialized for real-world use. Robots are moving into jobs that make sense, and consumer tech is increasingly judged by how well it fits into daily life.

CES will always be about bold ideas, but this year's awards suggest that the most exciting advances are the ones that quietly work, scale, and last.

Thank you for being a Ghacks reader. The post Best of CES 2026 Winners Highlight Where Consumer Tech Is Actually Heading appeared first on gHacks Technology News.

HP came to CES 2026 with a clear message: business laptops don't have to be heavy, boring, or locked into a single platform anymore. The new EliteBook X G2 lineup leans hard into on-device AI, while giving buyers something they rarely get in this segment-real choice.

Instead of pushing one processor family, HP is offering the EliteBook X G2 with AMD, Intel, or Qualcomm Snapdragon silicon, plus both traditional clamshell and convertible designs. It's a flexible approach that fits how modern work actually looks, especially for people who live on their laptops all day.

That flexibility matters more than ever as AI workloads move off the cloud and onto the device itself.

One lineup, three silicon paths

At the top sits the EliteBook X G2q, powered by Qualcomm's Snapdragon X2 Plus or X2 Elite chips. The flagship configuration pushes up to 85 TOPS of NPU performance, making it one of the most capable Copilot+ PCs announced so far. HP pairs that silicon with a 14-inch 3K OLED display (optional 120Hz VRR), up to 64GB of LPDDR5X RAM, and as much as 2TB of PCIe storage.

For users who prefer x86 compatibility, HP isn't forcing a compromise.

The EliteBook X G2i runs on Intel's Core Ultra Series 3 processors, delivering up to 50 TOPS of AI performance while keeping weight impressively low. Entry-level configurations come in under 1 kilogram, which is remarkable for a full-featured business laptop with this kind of performance headroom. Display, memory, and storage options mirror the Snapdragon model, keeping the decision focused on platform preference rather than feature trade-offs.

Then there's the EliteBook X G2a, built around AMD's Ryzen AI 9 HX Pro 470. With up to 55 TOPS of NPU performance, it lands squarely between Intel and Qualcomm in raw AI capability, while retaining AMD's strengths in sustained performance and compatibility. Again, HP keeps the rest of the configuration consistent across the lineup, which simplifies buying decisions.

Convertible options without compromise

HP is also expanding the lineup with the EliteBook X Flip G2i, a convertible version of the Intel model. The Flip variant supports laptop, tent, stand, and tablet modes, with a detachable display that turns the device into a standalone tablet when needed.

What stands out is that the Flip doesn't feel like an afterthought. Specifications remain in line with the standard G2i, which means users don't have to give up performance just to gain flexibility. That's still not a given in enterprise hardware.

Built for long days, not just demos

On paper, the EliteBook X G2 series checks all the expected enterprise boxes: Windows 11 Pro, Copilot+ features, enterprise-grade security, and promised all-day battery life. But what matters more is whether these machines can actually handle sustained work.

This is where HP has quietly earned some credibility.

I've been using an HP notebook as my primary work machine for about a year and a half, and it's been pushed hard-12+ hour workdays, constant multitasking, heavy browser workloads, writing, research, and background apps running nonstop. What still surprises me is how well such a compact machine holds up under that kind of pressure.

Thermals stay under control, performance doesn't collapse after a few hours, and the system hasn't developed the sluggishness that often creeps into thin-and-light laptops over time. That real-world endurance is easy to overlook at events like CES, but it's exactly what makes designs like the EliteBook X G2 series compelling. These aren't just thin for the sake of marketing slides; they're built to survive long, repetitive workdays.

A smarter direction for business laptops

The EliteBook X G2 lineup feels like a shift away from the old "one-size-fits-all" enterprise laptop strategy. Instead of forcing everyone into the same platform, HP is acknowledging that different users value different things-ARM efficiency, Intel compatibility, or AMD performance balance-and letting them choose without penalty.

Availability is staggered. HP says the Intel-powered EliteBook X G2i and Flip G2i should arrive in select configurations starting February 2026, while the AMD G2a and Snapdragon G2q models are expected later in the spring. Pricing hasn't been announced yet.

HP also used CES to tease other hardware, including the new Omnibook Ultra 14 and its unusual keyboard PC, but the EliteBook X G2 series is the clearest signal of where HP thinks business laptops are headed.

If these machines deliver in real-world use the way HP's recent notebooks have, this lineup could set a new baseline for what "lightweight business laptop" actually means in the AI era.

Thank you for being a Ghacks reader. The post HP’s EliteBook X G2 Laptops Put Serious AI Power In Shockingly Light Designs appeared first on gHacks Technology News.

Spotify is still best known for music, but it has quietly turned into a capable podcast app as well. The problem is that many of its best podcast-related options are buried in settings, and most people never touch them.

If you listen to podcasts regularly, changing a few defaults can save data, free storage, and make long episodes much easier to get through.

Here are the most important Spotify podcast settings worth adjusting.

1. Switch Video Podcasts To Audio-Only

Spotify supports full video podcasts, but streaming video burns data fast. If you mostly listen rather than watch, switching to audio-only makes a big difference.

Where to find it:

Settings and privacy ? Data saving and offline ? Enable Audio-only streaming and Audio-only downloads for video podcasts

This keeps the podcast audio while skipping the video feed entirely.

2. Enable Automatic Episode Downloads

Spotify can work like a traditional podcast app by automatically downloading new episodes from shows you follow. This is ideal for commuting or travel.

How to enable:

Open a podcast ? Settings (gear icon) ? Enable Auto-download episodes

You can also manage downloads for multiple shows from the global download settings.

3. Restrict Downloads To Wi-Fi

If auto-downloads are enabled, limiting them to Wi-Fi prevents Spotify from quietly eating through your mobile data plan.

Where to find it:

Settings and privacy ? Data saving and offline ? Turn off Downloads over cellular

4. Lower Podcast Download Quality

Podcast audio doesn't need high bitrates. Spotify's default podcast quality is already modest, but you can lower it further to save storage.

Where to change it:

Settings ? Audio quality ? Set downloads to Low (24kbps)

Note: This setting affects music too, not just podcasts.

5. Disable Autoplay For Podcasts

By default, Spotify keeps playing the next episode automatically. That can be annoying if you listen while falling asleep or prefer choosing episodes manually.

Where to find it:

Settings ? Playback ? Turn off Autoplay

6. Adjust Playback Speed

Spotify supports variable playback speed, which is essential for long or slow-paced podcasts.

How to use it:

Play an episode ? Tap the 1x button, choose anywhere from slower playback to faster speeds

Even a small bump, like 1.2x, can save hours over time.

7. Reduce Podcast Notifications

Subscribing to multiple shows can flood your phone with alerts. If episodes auto-download anyway, notifications are often unnecessary.

Where to manage:

Settings ? Notifications ? Disable New podcast episodes or fine-tune by show

You can also turn off podcast recommendations entirely.

8. Clear Cache And Old Downloads

Podcasts can quietly take up a lot of storage over time. Clearing the cache and old downloads keeps things under control.

Where to find it:

Settings ? Data saving and offline ? Storage ? use Clear cache and Remove downloads

Be aware this also removes downloaded music.

Final Thoughts

With the right settings, Spotify becomes a much more practical podcast player. It still lacks some advanced features found in dedicated podcast apps, but for many listeners, these tweaks are enough to make it efficient, predictable, and easier on data and storage.

If podcasts are part of your daily routine, spending a few minutes in Spotify's settings is well worth it.

Thank you for being a Ghacks reader. The post Listening To Podcasts On Spotify? Change These 8 Settings First appeared first on gHacks Technology News.

Google is quietly restoring a visual change to Google Drive on Android that some users may recognize. A refreshed file list design, based on Material 3 Expressive styling, is rolling out again after previously appearing briefly and then disappearing.

The update does not add new features or change how Drive works. Instead, it tweaks how content is presented, reinforcing Google's ongoing effort to standardize the look and feel of its apps across Android.

A familiar design makes a return

The restored design wraps the file list in a clearer visual container, giving it more definition against the background. Padding on the left and right edges has been increased slightly, which makes individual items feel less cramped and more evenly spaced.

This container-style layout is part of Material 3 Expressive, a design direction Google has been applying across Android and its first-party apps. It is not a dramatic overhaul, but it does make Drive's interface feel more structured and consistent with other recently updated Google apps.

The change was spotted running on recent versions of Google Drive for Android and appears to be enabled server-side. That means users may see it appear without a major app update or version jump.

Small adjustments, not new functionality

Beyond the container around the file list, a few smaller elements have been refined. Selection indicators for sections like My Drive and Computers are slimmer and less visually heavy than before. These tweaks reduce clutter without altering navigation or behavior.

For most users, the update is easy to miss. Drive works the same way it did before, and no controls have moved. The difference is more about feel than function, especially for people who spend a lot of time browsing files on their phone.

That subtlety is likely intentional. Google has been careful with Drive's interface, avoiding changes that might disrupt established workflows.

Rolled out before, now back again

What makes this update notable is that it is not entirely new. A similar visual refresh appeared previously and was then rolled back without explanation. Google did not comment on why it was removed or why it is returning now.

Its reappearance suggests that Google is confident enough in the design to try again, possibly after addressing feedback or edge cases that surfaced during the earlier rollout.

As with many Google UI changes, availability may vary by account or device. Some users will see the refreshed layout immediately, while others may need to wait.

Part of a broader design push

Google Drive's visual refresh fits into a larger pattern. Over the past year, Google has been gradually aligning its apps with Material 3 principles, emphasizing spacing, containers, and softer visual hierarchy.

These changes rarely make headlines on their own, but together they shape how Android feels day to day. Drive is a core app for many users, so even minor visual tweaks can have an outsized impact over time.

Functionally, nothing has changed. Storage limits, sharing, and file management remain the same. The update is purely cosmetic.

What to expect next

Google has not announced any additional Drive changes tied to this update. For now, it appears to be a quiet refinement rather than the start of a larger redesign.

If you use Google Drive on Android regularly, the refreshed layout should already be live or arrive soon. It does not require any action beyond keeping the app up to date.

For users who prefer stability over constant change, this is about as low-impact as updates get.

Thank you for being a Ghacks reader. The post Google Drive Brings Back A Subtle Material 3 Visual Refresh On Android appeared first on gHacks Technology News.

While 2026 is already underway, new engagement data offers a clear picture of what players actually spent their time on last year. According to US playtime tracking, the most-played games on both Xbox and PlayStation in 2025 were dominated by familiar names, with live-service titles continuing to crowd out newer releases.

The data, shared by industry analyst Mat Piscatella using Circana's Player Engagement Tracker, highlights a trend that has become increasingly hard to ignore: once a game secures a long-term audience, it can sit at the top for years with little movement.

The same top five on both platforms

On PlayStation, the top five most-played games in 2025 were:

• Fortnite
• Call of Duty
• Grand Theft Auto V
• Roblox
• Minecraft

What stands out is not just the list itself, but the fact that it is identical to PlayStation's 2024 ranking, including the order. Fortnite once again led the pack, followed by Call of Duty and GTA 5, both of which are now more than a decade old in some form.

Xbox players showed nearly the same behavior. The top five most-played games on Xbox in 2025 were:

• Fortnite
• Call of Duty
• Grand Theft Auto V
• Minecraft
• Roblox

The only difference between platforms was the order of Minecraft and Roblox. Compared to Xbox's 2024 list, the same five games appeared again, with minor reshuffling.

New hits struggled to displace established giants

This consistency is notable given how strong 2025 was for new releases. Games like Hollow Knight: Silksong and Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 sold millions of copies and generated sustained discussion. Expedition 33 even secured major awards elsewhere.

On the AAA side, releases such as Battlefield 6 and Mario Kart World attracted large launch audiences. Yet none of these titles cracked the top five in total playtime on either console.

That gap highlights the difference between sales, visibility, and engagement. Players may buy new games, but many still return to a small group of familiar titles for the bulk of their gaming hours.

Live-service gravity is still strong

The top five across both platforms share a common trait: they are all live-service or evergreen games with constant updates, social hooks, and long-term progression. Fortnite and Call of Duty refresh content regularly. GTA 5 continues to benefit from GTA Online. Minecraft and Roblox function more as platforms than single games.

Piscatella summarized the situation bluntly, describing the top of the charts as "established." The ranking itself is based on the percentage of active players who engaged with each game, not raw sales or revenue, which makes the lack of movement even more striking.

What comes next

Circana's full US market report for 2025 is expected later this month, which should provide a broader view beyond the top five. Still, the headline is already clear: console playtime remains heavily concentrated around a handful of long-running titles.

That may change in 2026. The upcoming release of Grand Theft Auto VI is widely expected to disrupt engagement charts across all platforms. Whether it breaks the current pattern or simply joins the same small circle of dominant games will be worth watching.

For now, 2025 reinforces a familiar reality. In terms of where players actually spend their time, the biggest games on Xbox and PlayStation are not the newest ones, but the ones that never seem to leave.

Thank you for being a Ghacks reader. The post These Were The Most-Played Games On Xbox And PlayStation In 2025 appeared first on gHacks Technology News.

Google has rolled out a long-requested feature for organizations looking to consolidate cloud storage. Google Workspace now lets admins migrate files, folders, and permissions directly from Dropbox into Google Drive using its New Data Migration service.

The capability exits open beta this week and is generally available across most Workspace plans. The goal is straightforward: reduce the friction of switching storage platforms by handling structure, access, and ongoing changes without third-party tools or disruptive cutovers.

A purpose-built path for Dropbox Business

This is not a basic export-and-import workflow. The New Data Migration service is designed for Dropbox Business accounts and preserves existing folder hierarchies and sharing permissions during the transfer. When the data lands in Google Drive, either in users' My Drive or in Shared Drives, access controls remain intact, minimizing confusion for end users.

Admins can run migrations in batches, with support for up to 150 Dropbox users or team folders at a time. That staged approach allows IT teams to move departments gradually, verify results, and address exceptions before expanding the scope. It also fits organizations that want to standardize Drive usage as part of the move, rather than copying everything wholesale and cleaning up later.

Reporting that shows exactly what happened

Visibility is one of the strongest parts of the new service. Google provides detailed, real-time reporting that tracks which files migrated successfully and which were skipped. Those reports can be exported for auditing or troubleshooting-useful for large environments where data integrity and accountability matter.

Skipped items are identified clearly, which helps admins address permission conflicts, unsupported items, or naming issues without guesswork. For enterprises and education customers, this level of transparency reduces the risk typically associated with storage migrations.

Delta updates minimize downtime

Google also added support for "delta" migrations. In practice, this allows an organization to run an initial transfer, keep working in Dropbox during the transition, and then perform a follow-up pass that captures only files changed since the first run.

This avoids the freeze period many teams face when switching platforms. Instead of pausing work or enforcing a hard cutover, admins can migrate in parallel and close the gap with a final delta sync. For active teams, this is often the difference between a smooth transition and weeks of complaints.

Broad availability across Workspace plans

The Dropbox migration feature is available to a wide range of Workspace customers, including Business Starter through Business Plus, all Enterprise tiers, Education editions, and Nonprofit accounts. That coverage suggests Google views this as a core platform capability rather than an upsell.

Super Admins can access the tool in the Admin console under Menu ? Data ? Data import & export ? Data Migration (New). Older migration tools remain available for legacy scenarios, but Google is clearly steering admins toward the newer service for modern, high-fidelity transfers.

Why this matters beyond convenience

Storage migrations are rarely blocked by file size alone. The real pain comes from permissions, shared ownership, and ongoing collaboration. By handling those elements natively, Google lowers the barrier for organizations that want to standardize on Drive without months of prep work.

This also reflects a broader Workspace strategy. Google continues to position Drive as the central layer for collaboration, with Docs, Sheets, Meet, and third-party tools built around it. Reducing reliance on external migration utilities makes Workspace more self-contained and easier to adopt at scale.

For teams already weighing a move away from Dropbox, the timing is notable. A built-in, permission-aware migration path removes much of the technical risk that previously required consultants or specialized software.

What it does not do

The tool is focused on Dropbox Business. Personal Dropbox accounts and edge cases outside supported configurations may still require alternative approaches. Google has also not positioned this as a bidirectional sync; once migrated, Drive becomes the destination platform.

That limitation is expected. The service is designed to help organizations move forward, not maintain parallel storage indefinitely.

A practical step toward consolidation

Google Workspace has long competed on collaboration features. With this update, it removes another practical obstacle to consolidation. The ability to migrate data cleanly, preserve access, and keep teams working during the transition is often what determines whether a platform switch actually happens.

For organizations looking to simplify their cloud stack in 2026, a native path from Dropbox to Drive makes that decision easier to execute.

Thank you for being a Ghacks reader. The post Google Workspace Now Supports Direct Dropbox-To-Drive Migrations appeared first on gHacks Technology News.

Steam users have spoken, and the verdict for 2025 is clear. Hollow Knight: Silksong has won Steam's Game of the Year award, capping off a year where it dominated player discussion and engagement on the platform.

The win was not a walkover. Silksong beat out several heavily decorated titles, including Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 and Blue Prince, both of which collected top honors elsewhere in 2025. While Expedition 33 had already taken major industry awards, Steam voters ultimately rallied behind Silksong's demanding combat, deep exploration, and long-awaited arrival.

Silksong also stood out as the only game to take home more than one Steam Award this year, winning both Game of the Year and the tongue-in-cheek Best Game You Suck At category.

Other major Steam Award winners

While Silksong led the night, Steam's community spread recognition across a wide range of genres and studios.

• VR Game of the Year went to The Midnight Walk, edging out racing and shooter heavyweights.
• Labor of Love was awarded to Baldur's Gate 3, reflecting continued appreciation for post-launch updates and long-term support.
• Best Game on Steam Deck was claimed by Hades 2, reinforcing its reputation as one of the most portable-friendly releases of the year.
• Better With Friends went to Peak, highlighting Steam's ongoing focus on social play.
• Outstanding Visual Style was awarded to Silent Hill f, recognized for its striking and unsettling art direction.
• Most Innovative Gameplay landed with ARC Raiders, which also finished as a runner-up for Game of the Year.
• Best Soundtrack went to Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, ensuring it did not leave the awards empty-handed.
• Outstanding Story-Rich Game was awarded to Dispatch.
• Sit Back and Relax went to RV There Yet?.

What this says about Steam's audience

The 2025 Steam Awards again highlighted how different player-driven voting can be from juried industry shows. Challenging gameplay, long-term support, and replay value mattered more than spectacle alone. Indie and mid-sized studios were well represented, while even long-running titles continued to earn recognition years after release.

Silksong's double win reinforces another pattern: Steam users tend to reward games that demand mastery and keep players coming back, even when frustration is part of the experience.

The full list of winners is now live on Steam, closing out another year where the platform's community made its preferences unmistakably clear.

Thank you for being a Ghacks reader. The post Steam Officially Revealed The Game Of 2025 appeared first on gHacks Technology News.

Google is slowly closing one of the long-standing gaps between desktop and mobile browsing. The latest example shows up in Google Chrome for Android, where the browser has started displaying a familiar desktop feature: the bookmark bar.

The change is subtle, but for tablet users in particular, it meaningfully improves day-to-day browsing. Instead of burying bookmarks inside menus, Chrome now surfaces frequently used sites directly beneath the address bar, mirroring how Chrome has worked on desktops for years.

A desktop feature finally lands on Android

As first reported by Android Authority, Chrome for Android now includes an optional bookmark bar that appears below the omnibox. The layout is nearly identical to what desktop users see, with pinned bookmarks visible at all times while browsing.

Until now, accessing bookmarks on Android required opening the three-dot menu and navigating into the Bookmarks section. That extra friction made bookmarks feel secondary on mobile, even for users who rely on them heavily on desktop.

With the bookmark bar enabled, frequently visited sites are just one tap away, without interrupting the current page or opening a separate screen.

How to enable the bookmark bar on Android

The bookmark bar is not turned on by default. Users who want it need to enable it manually:

1. Open Chrome on Android
2. Go to Settings
3. Open Appearance
4. Toggle Show bookmark bar

Once enabled, bookmarked sites appear directly below the address bar. As on desktop, space is limited, so not every bookmark will be visible at once.

To account for that, Chrome includes an All bookmarks button at the end of the bar. Tapping it opens the full bookmarks list, offering faster access than digging through settings or menus.

Tablet-first, at least for now

There is a catch. The bookmark bar currently appears to be limited to Android tablets. On phones, the feature does not show up, even when the toggle is present or enabled.

That limitation makes sense from a layout perspective. Phones simply do not have the vertical space to permanently display a bookmark bar without sacrificing content. Tablets, on the other hand, already resemble desktop browsing environments when used in landscape mode.

Google has not announced whether the feature will expand to phones in some modified form. For now, it appears to be a tablet-only enhancement.

Why this change matters

Chrome on Android has long been powerful, but it has also felt constrained compared to its desktop counterpart. Features like extensions, persistent UI elements, and advanced tab management have historically been limited or missing.

The bookmark bar is not flashy, but it addresses a real usability gap. For users who switch between desktop and tablet throughout the day, consistent access to bookmarks reduces friction and makes Chrome feel like a single, continuous browsing experience rather than two separate products.

It also signals something broader. Google appears more willing to adapt desktop-style workflows for larger Android devices, instead of treating tablets as oversized phones.

Part of a slow shift toward desktop-style Chrome

This change fits into a pattern. Over the past year, Google has quietly improved Chrome's tablet interface with better tab layouts, improved multi-window behavior, and more desktop-like controls.

Rather than redesigning Chrome from scratch, Google is selectively importing features that make sense on larger screens. The bookmark bar is a natural candidate, especially for productivity-focused users.

That approach also aligns with Google's push to make Android tablets more competitive as work devices, particularly alongside ChromeOS and larger foldables.

No official announcement yet

Google has not made a formal announcement about the bookmark bar rollout. There is no public timeline, no blog post, and no confirmation about broader availability.

That suggests a gradual rollout, possibly tied to server-side configuration or specific Chrome versions. As with many Chrome changes, visibility may depend on device type, region, or account.

For users who already see the toggle, the feature appears stable and functional. For others, it may take time to appear.

What to expect next

It is unclear whether Google plans to bring a modified version of the bookmark bar to phones. If it does, it would likely require a different design, perhaps appearing only in landscape mode or when using split-screen.

For now, the feature is a clear win for tablet users. It removes unnecessary steps, improves consistency with desktop Chrome, and makes bookmarks feel like a first-class feature again.

Sometimes the best mobile improvements are not new ideas, but proven ones borrowed from the desktop.

Thank you for being a Ghacks reader. The post Chrome For Android Adds The Bookmark Bar From Desktop Browsing appeared first on gHacks Technology News.

HP has revealed one of the more unusual PC form factors at CES 2026: a complete Windows PC built directly into a keyboard. The device is called the EliteBoard G1a Next Gen AI PC, and unlike novelty designs of the past, it is positioned as a serious enterprise workstation rather than an experiment.

The EliteBoard G1a looks like a standard low-profile office keyboard. Inside, it houses an AMD Ryzen AI 300 Series processor, system memory, storage, connectivity, and optional battery hardware. There is no external box, no dock, and no separate compute unit. The keyboard is the computer.

A keyboard that is the entire PC

HP is describing the EliteBoard G1a as the first "AI PC built into a keyboard." The entire system measures roughly 12 mm thick and weighs between 1.5 and 1.7 pounds, depending on configuration. From the outside, it resembles a typical enterprise keyboard with chiclet-style keys, a full function row, and a numeric keypad.

This is not a thin client or a Raspberry Pi-style experiment. The EliteBoard G1a runs full Windows and is powered by modern x86 hardware. Configurations support up to 64 GB of RAM and up to 2 TB of storage, making it suitable for everyday productivity workloads, web-based tools, and standard business applications.

HP is not marketing it as a gaming machine, but it is far more capable than previous "computer-in-a-keyboard" designs that relied on low-power ARM or single-board computers.

Built around Ryzen AI and local processing

At the core of the EliteBoard G1a is an AMD Ryzen AI processor with a dedicated NPU capable of more than 50 TOPS. That places it squarely in the Copilot+ PC category, with hardware designed for local AI workloads.

HP pairs this with its own power and thermal management systems, including Auto State Management and Smart Sense. These adjust performance, cooling behavior, and power draw dynamically based on workload. For users who choose the battery-equipped version, this helps balance responsiveness with limited untethered runtime.

The optional battery allows the keyboard PC to be moved between desks or meeting rooms without immediately reconnecting power. HP also offers a non-battery configuration for fixed desks, which keeps weight down and simplifies deployment.

Designed for enterprise environments

The EliteBoard G1a is aimed squarely at business and enterprise customers. That shows up in the feature set. There is a Kensington lock slot, optional fingerprint authentication, and additional security software baked into the platform.

Connectivity is also conservative by design. Display output relies on DisplayPort rather than HDMI, reflecting typical enterprise monitor deployments. The system can drive up to two 4K displays simultaneously, which aligns with modern office workflows.

HP has confirmed that the device will be sold directly through HP.com rather than through retail channels, reinforcing that this is not a mass-market consumer product.

A clean-desk alternative to mini PCs and laptops

The appeal of the EliteBoard G1a is not raw performance. It is simplicity. For users who already work with external monitors, docks, and peripherals, a keyboard PC removes an entire layer of hardware.

There is no tower under the desk and no mini PC mounted behind a monitor. One cable handles power, display output, and data. Dual microphones and built-in speakers are integrated into the keyboard itself, allowing it to function immediately in video calls without extra peripherals.

The form factor also makes hot-desking and shared workspaces easier to manage. IT departments can deploy identical keyboards across desks, with the computer moving with the user rather than staying fixed in place.

Paired with a new IPS Black 4K monitor

Alongside the EliteBoard G1a, HP introduced the Series 7 Pro 4K Monitor as a companion display. It uses IPS Black panel technology with a claimed 2,700:1 contrast ratio, roughly double that of standard IPS displays.

The monitor is factory calibrated and supports user-defined color profiles when paired with external calibration tools. It also includes a 140W Thunderbolt 4 port capable of handling power, display output, and high-speed data over a single cable.

In practical terms, this allows the EliteBoard G1a to connect to the monitor with one cable for both power and video, turning the display into a hub for the entire setup.

Not a new idea, but a modern execution

Keyboards with built-in computers are not new. Early home computers like the Commodore 64 and Apple II placed the system board under the keys. More recently, the Raspberry Pi 400 revived the idea with a Linux-based design.

What makes the EliteBoard G1a different is that it runs modern Windows on current x86 hardware, with enterprise-grade security and support. This is not a nostalgia play or a hobbyist device. It is meant to replace small form factor desktops in controlled environments.

Availability and pricing

HP says the EliteBoard G1a Next Gen AI PC and the Series 7 Pro 4K Monitor are expected to become available on HP.com in March. Pricing has not been announced.

Whether this form factor expands beyond enterprise will depend on adoption. For now, HP is treating it as a targeted solution for organizations that want fewer boxes, cleaner desks, and centralized hardware management.

Thank you for being a Ghacks reader. The post HP Built a Full Windows PC Into a Keyboard Using Ryzen AI Hardware appeared first on gHacks Technology News.

Samsung has revealed its largest and most ambitious Micro RGB television yet at CES 2026. The new 130-inch model, known as the R95H, is positioned as a statement product that blends display technology, industrial design, and AI-driven features into a single showcase.

The size alone puts the TV well outside mainstream living rooms, but Samsung is using it to highlight where its display roadmap is heading rather than to chase volume sales.

Micro RGB pushes color beyond existing TV tech

Micro RGB is the core of the announcement. Unlike traditional LCD TVs that rely on a backlight, or OLED panels that use organic compounds, Micro RGB uses microscopic red, green, and blue LEDs that emit light independently. Samsung says this allows the R95H to cover 100% of the BT.2020 color gamut, which is wider than what current consumer OLED and Mini-LED TVs can deliver.

Samsung pairs the panel with its new Micro RGB AI Engine Pro, along with Color Booster Pro and HDR Pro processing. These systems are designed to preserve color accuracy while boosting contrast and shadow detail, even at extreme brightness levels. A glare-free coating is also used to maintain image clarity in brightly lit rooms.

A TV designed to look like part of the room

Samsung is leaning heavily into design with what it calls the "Timeless Frame." Instead of looking like a conventional television, the screen is meant to resemble a floating gallery window. The frame hides integrated spatial audio hardware that is tuned specifically for the size of the display, allowing sound to track on-screen action without external speakers.

This approach mirrors Samsung's ongoing effort to make large TVs feel more architectural and less like standalone electronics.

Vision AI Companion goes beyond voice commands

The R95H ships with Samsung's updated Vision AI Companion, an on-device assistant that extends past basic voice control. In addition to content recommendations, it can answer contextual questions about what's on screen, suggest recipes, and offer music or program ideas based on viewing habits.

Samsung is also introducing AI Soccer Mode Pro, which adjusts picture and sound settings to create a stadium-style presentation, and an AI Sound Controller Pro that lets viewers separately tune commentary, crowd noise, and background audio.

Long-term software support and broader 2026 lineup

At this price tier, Samsung is bundling its latest software platform as well. The TV supports HDR10+ Advanced, the company's Eclipsa spatial audio system, and a Tizen-based interface now promised to receive seven years of updates.

The 130-inch Micro RGB TV sits alongside Samsung's refreshed 2026 lineup, which includes a slimmer OLED S95H and a new Freestyle+ portable projector. Those products are expected to be far more accessible, but the Micro RGB model is clearly the centerpiece of Samsung's CES presence.

Samsung has not announced pricing or availability for the R95H or the rest of its 2026 TV lineup.

Thank you for being a Ghacks reader. The post Samsung Unveils a 130-inch Micro RGB TV With Gallery-Style Design and New AI features appeared first on gHacks Technology News.