WAYR TODAY

Category: Consumer Tech

  • Meta Reverses Decision to Shut Down Horizon Worlds in Virtual Reality

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    Meta, formerly known as Facebook, has reversed its decision to shut down Horizon Worlds, its virtual reality (VR) platform. The company’s Chief Technology Officer, Andrew Bosworth, announced that Horizon Worlds will continue to be available in VR for existing games, with limited support.

    This decision comes a day after Meta revealed plans to close the metaverse platform. In response to fan concerns, Bosworth stated, “We have decided, just today in fact, that we will keep Horizon Worlds working in VR for existing games, to support the fans who reached out.” Meta had initially informed users of the impending shutdown in an email, citing a shift in investments away from the metaverse and VR initiatives.

    While the reversal may come as a surprise, Meta’s focus seems to be shifting towards mobile platforms, as indicated by the decision to maintain the service on mobile devices. The company has clarified that no new games or major investments will be made in Horizon Worlds, aligning with a previous move regarding its Supernatural fitness service.

    Despite the halt on new content creation for Horizon Worlds, existing user-created worlds will still be accessible. Additionally, Meta hinted at upcoming virtual concerts on the platform, emphasizing the availability of immersive 3D and 2D concerts on Quest via the TV app.

    As Meta navigates these changes, the tech community awaits further developments to understand the long-term implications of this strategic shift in focus.

    Source: WIRED

  • Meta Discontinues Horizon Worlds: Implications for the VR Landscape

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    Meta, formerly known as Facebook, has announced the shutdown of its virtual reality social experience, Horizon Worlds. This move is part of Meta’s broader restructuring efforts to streamline its operations.

    The decision to discontinue Horizon Worlds was communicated to users via email, with the VR world set to be removed from Quest VR headsets by March 31. By June 15, the VR worlds will be completely shut down, transitioning to a mobile platform.

    Meta’s foray into Horizon Worlds was a significant step towards realizing the concept of the metaverse, a fully immersive virtual environment. However, despite Meta’s substantial investments and partnerships with renowned brands and artists for virtual events, the service failed to gain significant traction compared to platforms like VRChat.

    Notably, Horizon Worlds faced criticism for its initial technical issues and limited user engagement, often being associated with younger audiences. Meta’s decision to discontinue the service follows previous layoffs within its Reality Labs division, indicating a strategic shift towards more sustainable VR initiatives.

    This development raises questions about Meta’s future VR strategies and the evolving landscape of virtual reality platforms, emphasizing the challenges of creating engaging and profitable virtual experiences.

    Source: WIRED

  • Spotify Introduces ‘Exclusive Mode’ for Enhanced Audio Quality on Windows

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    Spotify has announced a new feature called ‘Exclusive Mode’ in its Windows app, designed to improve audio quality by granting the Spotify app full control over the device’s audio processing. This feature aims to prevent the computer from altering audio before it reaches the DAC, ensuring ‘Bit Perfect playback,’ according to Spotify.

    Exclusive Mode will initially be available to Spotify Premium users on Windows, and it will also be rolled out to the Mac app in a future update. To activate this feature, users can navigate to the settings in the Windows Spotify app, choose ‘Playback,’ select the desired audio device from the ‘Output’ options, and enable ‘Exclusive Mode.’ It’s important to note that while Exclusive Mode is active, functionalities like automix, crossfade features, and audio from other applications will be disabled.

    Many Spotify users have been requesting bit-perfect playback through an exclusive mode, similar to offerings from competitors such as Tidal and Amazon Music. In addition to Exclusive Mode, Spotify recently introduced a lossless audio option, which provides subtle enhancements over its existing high-quality offering.

    Source: The Verge

  • Amazon Prime Video Announces Price Hike and New Features for Ad-Free Tier

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    Amazon Prime Video is set to raise the price of its ad-free plan in the US and introduce additional features, as reported by The Verge. Beginning on April 10th, the ad-free tier will be priced at $4.99 per month, up from $2.99, and will offer exclusive access to 4K/UHD streaming.

    The price adjustment follows Amazon’s transition of all Prime Video users to an ad-supported model two years ago, with an option to pay extra for an ad-free experience. Renamed as Prime Video ‘Ultra,’ the ad-free tier will now support up to five simultaneous streams (up from three), allow up to 100 downloads (up from 25), and include Dolby Atmos support.

    Amazon explained that providing premium features in the ad-free subscription necessitates substantial investment, aligning its structure with other key streaming services. Users on the ad-supported tier will still have access to HD/HDR streams, Dolby Vision content, and various live sports broadcasts.

    Source: The Verge

  • Nosh Robotics Unveils $1,500 AI-Powered Robotic Chef for Effortless Meal Preparation

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    Nosh Robotics has announced the Nosh One, an AI-powered kitchen appliance designed to streamline meal preparation. Priced at $1,499 and available for pre-order on Kickstarter, the Nosh One aims to redefine cooking convenience.

    The Nosh One simplifies the cooking process by allowing users to load ingredients into its tray and select a recipe. Utilizing AI technology, the robot autonomously adds ingredients, stirs, and monitors the cooking process through a built-in camera. Users receive notifications via the Nosh app once the meal is ready, offering a hassle-free cooking experience.

    With the capability to prepare over 500 dishes, users can also create custom recipes by describing their preferences, allowing the AI to generate personalized recipes. The Nosh One’s innovative sealed cooking chamber sets it apart from similar products, enhancing safety and minimizing kitchen mess.

    Enhancements on Kickstarter include additional accessories and a Culinary+ subscription, granting access to all recipes and enabling recipe customization. Scheduled to ship this summer, the Nosh One represents a significant advancement in kitchen automation, catering to individuals seeking efficient meal solutions.

    Source: The Verge

  • Whoop Unveils Women’s Health Blood Test and Cycle Tracking Features

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    Fitness wearable company Whoop has announced a new blood test panel focused on women’s health as part of its Whoop Labs blood testing service. Additionally, the company has introduced a new app feature that provides insights into hormonal changes during menstrual cycles.

    The new panel includes 11 blood biomarkers such as Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH), Progesterone, Prolactin, and Thyroid Peroxidase Antibodies (TPOAb), among others. These biomarkers offer insights into cycle regulation, hormonal transitions, perimenopause, thyroid function, nutrient levels, and bone metabolic resilience when combined with activity, sleep, and recovery data.

    Users will be able to purchase the test starting next month, following a waitlist of over 350,000 individuals since the blood testing service launched in September 2025. Moreover, Whoop’s app now features Hormonal Symptom Insights and Predictions, which leverages previous data to model hormonal changes across menstrual cycles. It predicts period windows, provides cycle length insights, flags irregularities, and details individual symptom patterns.

    Whoop has also published a new white paper on menstrual cycle insights, shedding light on the modeling process behind these innovative features.

    Source: TechCrunch

  • Walmart Integrates Vizio Accounts: Streamlining the Consumer Tech Landscape

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    Walmart’s acquisition of Vizio in 2024 has set in motion a significant transformation in the consumer tech sphere. The latest development involves Walmart phasing out Vizio accounts and transitioning users to Walmart accounts when purchasing new Vizio TVs. This move aims to consolidate Vizio’s operations within Walmart’s ecosystem.

    Customers acquiring a new Vizio TV will now encounter prompts to either log in or create a Walmart account. Additionally, users with existing Vizio accounts can opt to merge them with their Walmart accounts or choose to delete them outright. Notably, Vizio account holders electing to delete their accounts will have a limited window of 30 days to request any associated data before potential deletion.

    While the account merging option is currently exclusive to new TV buyers, it is slated to extend to existing Vizio TV owners in the future. This transition underscores Walmart’s strategic approach to streamline user experiences and leverage the combined strengths of Walmart and Vizio in the evolving tech landscape.

    Source: The Verge

  • Roku Unveils ‘Roklue’ Trivia Game to Tackle Streaming Indecision

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    Roku users facing the overwhelming task of choosing what to watch now have a new solution in the form of ‘Roklue,’ a pop culture trivia game set to debut on the streaming platform on March 7th. Revealed recently, Roklue aims to assist users in discovering fresh content by challenging them with questions about trending movies and TV shows, along with beloved classics they may wish to revisit.

    The inaugural theme for Roklue will revolve around ‘awards season,’ featuring hints inspired by significant moments from Hollywood’s top award ceremonies and acclaimed films. The game will introduce various themes over time, keeping the experience engaging and diverse. Users can access Roklue effortlessly without any downloads; it will automatically show up on the Roku home screen upon its launch this Saturday.

    Roklue will join Roku’s existing catalog of games accessible through its gaming channels. In a similar vein, Netflix has been offering games for some time now, integrating them into its streaming service and offering free games on mobile platforms exclusively for Netflix subscribers.

    Source: The Verge

  • Extending the Life of Older PCs with Google’s ChromeOS Flex USB Sticks

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    Google, in collaboration with Back Market, is introducing a solution to extend the life of older laptops and desktops through innovative USB sticks. These USB sticks, priced at $3 each, contain ChromeOS Flex, Google’s cloud-based operating system, allowing users to breathe new life into aging Windows and Intel-powered Mac devices.

    The initiative aims to combat e-waste by providing a cost-effective alternative for individuals with older PCs struggling with outdated hardware and software support. With an initial release of 3,000 USB keys scheduled for March 30, Back Market plans to scale production based on demand, addressing the growing need for sustainable tech solutions.

    ChromeOS Flex enables users to leverage Google’s cloud infrastructure to run resource-intensive programs on legacy devices. While the service is compatible with most Windows laptops, its functionality on older Intel-based Apple computers is limited due to incompatibility with Apple’s newer M-series chips.

    As the tech industry grapples with rising hardware costs driven by memory shortages, initiatives like ChromeOS Flex offer a cost-efficient strategy to prolong the usability of existing devices. This development comes amid increasing challenges in affordable PC upgrades, exemplified by the recent price hikes in Apple’s latest MacBook models.

    Source: WIRED

  • Google Pixel Watch Introduces Streamlined ‘Express Pay’ Feature

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    Google has unveiled a new ‘express pay’ feature for the Pixel Watch, enabling users to tap their watch for payments without opening the Wallet app. This enhancement, set to debut on the Pixel Watch 2 and later models, streamlines the payment process by eliminating the need to access the app manually.

    Similar to Apple Watch’s ‘express mode,’ the Pixel Watch’s ‘express pay’ requires user opt-in and an unlocked device for transactions. Previously, Pixel Watch users had to navigate through the Wallet app to make payments, but this new feature provides a more efficient and user-friendly experience.

    In addition to ‘express pay,’ Google is rolling out other functionalities for the Pixel Watch lineup, including automatic phone locking when out of range and alerts for phone abandonment. The company is also optimizing identity verification processes for faster actions when the watch is paired with a compatible phone, enhancing user experience and security.

    These updates aim to provide a seamless and integrated experience for Pixel Watch users, reinforcing the device’s position as a convenient companion to Pixel smartphones.

    Source: The Verge

  • Samsung Unveils Digital Home Key: Unlock Your Home with Your Phone

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    Samsung has introduced its latest innovation, the Digital Home Key, which allows users to unlock their homes with a tap of their phone or by simply approaching the door. This new feature, integrated into Samsung Wallet, is powered by the Aliro smart home standard, offering convenient access control for consumers.

    The Digital Home Key, initially teased in 2024 and now becoming a reality, leverages the Aliro standard to enable tap-to-unlock functionality using near-field communication (NFC) technology. Additionally, with ultra-wideband (UWB) support, users can effortlessly unlock their doors as they approach, eliminating the need to physically use their phones.

    Alongside this development, Samsung has also announced the inclusion of American Airlines boarding passes in the wallets of users. The rollout of Digital Home Key will begin in select regions this month, with UWB support slated for April. While compatibility with the Aliro standard is currently limited, Aqara’s U400 lock is identified as ‘Aliro-ready,’ potentially making it the first lock to integrate with Samsung’s Digital Home Key system.

    To enable Digital Home Key, users must set up a compatible smart lock via SmartThings using Matter. The feature is exclusive to certain Galaxy smartphones supporting both NFC and UWB, such as the Galaxy Z Fold 4 and newer models, as well as the Galaxy S22 Ultra and above. For a comprehensive list of compatible devices, users can refer to Samsung’s official website.

    Source: The Verge

  • Aliro Smart Lock Standard Aims to Unify Access Control Across Platforms

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    Aliro, a new smart lock standard, has officially launched its 1.0 specification, aiming to streamline the user experience by allowing any smartphone to unlock any smart lock, regardless of the manufacturer. Originally introduced in 2023, Aliro leverages a digital key stored in your phone’s wallet, enabling seamless tap-to-unlock functionality.

    What sets Aliro apart is its cross-platform support, catering to both Android and iOS users, as well as major mobile wallet ecosystems such as Apple, Google, and Samsung. By eliminating the need for proprietary software or cloud connections, Aliro ensures a direct and secure connection between your phone and the lock.

    Apple, Google, and Samsung have actively participated in Aliro’s development and have committed to integrating support for the standard across their platforms. Nelson Henry, chair of the Aliro Working Group, anticipates universal Aliro support across all platforms in the coming months, offering a solution to the current fragmentation in smart lock technologies.

    With Aliro’s widespread adoption, users can look forward to a future where a single digital key on their phone or smartwatch grants access to various locks, from residential to commercial settings.

    Source: The Verge

  • ADT Enhances Smart Home Security with Origin Wireless Acquisition

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    ADT, a prominent player in home security, has finalized a $170 million acquisition of Origin Wireless to bolster its security and smart home offerings. Origin Wireless is known for its innovative algorithms that utilize wireless RF signals to detect human presence and movements without additional sensors.

    The integration of Origin Wireless’ technology into ADT’s systems aims to enhance the context of security alarms, potentially minimizing false alerts. By harnessing Wi-Fi technology, future ADT setups could require fewer sensors, simplifying installation processes.

    “This acquisition represents a significant step forward in our vision to deliver a safer, smarter home that understands context, recognizes risk, and provides peace of mind, all while protecting customer privacy,” said Omar Khan, ADT’s Executive Vice President and Chief Business Officer.

    Origin Wireless’ AI sensing platform has already been utilized in consumer products, including Linksys Aware and SpaceSense. ADT plans to continue licensing this technology to Verisure, further expanding its impact on the security system market.

    Source: The Verge

  • Amazon Fire TV Unveils Streamlined Interface for Improved Content Discovery

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    Amazon is introducing a new user interface for Fire TV, aiming to streamline content discovery and enhance the user experience. The updated design, currently rolling out in the U.S., marks a significant overhaul for Fire TV, addressing the challenge of navigating the vast array of streaming services available today.

    The redesigned interface features rounded corners, improved typography, and simplified navigation. Notable changes include an expanded home screen capacity, allowing users to pin up to 20 apps for easy access, and a revamped navigation bar with categorized tabs for Movies, TV, Live TV, Sports, and News.

    Moreover, Fire TV now offers personalized content recommendations under the ‘For You’ section, showcasing tailored suggestions based on subscribed services. The Live TV tab consolidates live content from various sources, offering a centralized hub for streaming and broadcast TV options.

    With these updates, Amazon aims to transform Fire TV into a user-friendly content discovery platform, aligning with the evolving landscape of streaming services and user preferences.

    Source: TechCrunch

  • Roku Unveils Streaming Bundles to Boost Profitability Amid Rising Subscription Costs

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    Roku announced its fourth-quarter earnings for 2025, reporting a net income of $80.5 million. The company plans to launch new streaming bundles, extend its $3 subscription service, Howdy, to more platforms, and collaborate with additional premium streaming services after the success with HBO Max.

    The move to introduce streaming bundles in 2026 aims to attract viewers seeking cost-effective options amid escalating subscription costs across various platforms. Roku’s focus on appealing to budget-conscious consumers follows the positive response to HBO Max, indicating a potential growth trajectory through further partnerships with top-tier streaming services.

    Roku’s ad-free subscription service, Howdy, which debuted last year, is set to broaden its reach beyond the Roku platform. CEO Anthony Wood expressed the goal of wide distribution, stating, “We want to distribute it everywhere,” during CES.

    In 2025, Roku users streamed 145.6 billion hours of video, registering a 15% year-over-year increase. The company is nearing 100 million streaming households but has opted to report this metric less frequently.

    Financially, Roku marked a significant quarter with $1.4 billion in total revenue and a net income rebound from a previous year’s loss. Looking ahead, Roku is positive about its projections, anticipating $5.5 billion in total net revenue and $2.4 billion in gross profit.

    Source: TechCrunch

  • Weave’s $7,999 Laundry-Folding Robot: Exploring the Potential and Limitations of Household Automation

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    Weave, a startup founded just over a year ago, has introduced the Isaac 0, a $7,999 robot designed to tackle the tedious task of folding laundry. This stationary robot, requiring a standard wall outlet, aims to alleviate the burden of laundry folding for those willing to invest in its convenience. While it can fold a load of laundry in 30-90 minutes, it currently struggles with larger items like blankets and bed sheets, requiring human assistance for complex folds.

    The Isaac 0’s limited capabilities raise questions about the readiness of chore-performing robots for widespread adoption in real homes. Weave joins a growing trend of companies, including LG and SwitchBot, exploring household robot solutions, with laundry automation emerging as a prominent use case. However, the practicality and efficiency of these robots remain uncertain, signaling potential challenges in seamlessly integrating them into daily life.

    Source: The Verge

  • Alexa+ Integrates with Kindle Scribe, Enabling ‘Send to Alexa’ Feature

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    Amazon’s Alexa+ platform has expanded its capabilities by introducing a new ‘Send to Alexa’ feature that seamlessly integrates with the Kindle Scribe, as reported by WIRED. This functionality allows users to effortlessly transfer their Kindle Scribe notes to their Echo devices, enabling convenient interactions with the AI-powered assistant.

    The process of sending notes to Alexa involves manually sharing either entire notebooks or specific pages from the Kindle Scribe using the dedicated share tool. Currently, this feature is compatible with the third-generation Kindle Scribe models, with plans to extend support to older versions in the future.

    Upon testing the feature, it was observed that Alexa+ effectively analyzed the notes, displaying a decent understanding of the content. While the assistant could interpret various terms and set alerts based on the notes, challenges arose with handwritten notes in cursive, indicating areas for potential improvement.

    Although the ‘Send to Alexa’ feature may not drastically alter daily routines, it presents a practical utility for digital notetakers seeking streamlined access to their content. Users can leverage this integration to engage with their notes vocally, enhancing the efficiency of managing personal data.

    Source: WIRED

  • Ableton Live 12.4 Beta Introduces Collaborative Audio Streaming with Link Audio

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    Ableton has unveiled the Live 12.4 Beta, featuring a significant addition called Link Audio, aimed at facilitating real-time collaboration among devices within a local network. This innovation enhances cross-device collaboration by enabling streaming audio between connected devices. While the current version of Link Audio is limited to supporting audio streaming exclusively, it simplifies the collaborative process that typically involves exporting and sharing project files.

    Link Audio extends the functionality of the existing Ableton Link, known for synchronizing BPM across devices over a local network. Although Ableton Link enjoys broad hardware and software support, including popular products like Akai’s MPC line and Logic Pro, Link Audio currently only integrates seamlessly with Ableton Live, Ableton’s Note app, and specific hardware devices such as Push and Move.

    Users will be able to utilize Link Audio-enabled devices as inputs in Live and on the Push Standalone, allowing for monitoring and recording capabilities. While wired connections are recommended for optimal performance, Link Audio can also operate over Wi-Fi, albeit with potential latency and dropout issues, particularly during extensive usage.

    In addition to Link Audio, Live 12.4 will introduce enhancements to the stem separation feature introduced in the previous version, offering improved workflow and quality of life improvements. For instance, users can now separate specific audio selections from arrangement view and merge stems into single tracks for better organization.

    Source: The Verge

  • Apple Discontinues Original HomeKit Architecture, Impacts Smart Home Device Compatibility

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    Apple users who have not yet transitioned to the new Apple Home system face an impending deadline as the company prepares to discontinue support for the original HomeKit architecture starting February 10, 2026. This change will particularly affect individuals relying on iPads as their Apple Home Hub, as this role will now require a HomePod or Apple TV in the updated system.

    The new Apple Home architecture, introduced with iOS 16.4 in 2023, represents a significant overhaul of the platform, emphasizing enhanced performance, reliability, and compatibility with the emerging smart home standard, Matter. To continue utilizing smart home features seamlessly, users must ensure their devices are running iOS 16.2 or later, macOS 13.1 or higher, or watchOS 9.2 and above.

    To align with the new requirements and avoid disruptions in smart home control, users are advised to promptly update their Apple Home settings through the Home app. Failure to do so could result in automatic upgrades post the February 10 deadline.

    This transition marks the culmination of Apple’s phased approach to sunset the original HomeKit architecture, initially slated for termination by the end of 2025. Despite the extended timeline, the final deadline is now imminent, prompting users to act swiftly for uninterrupted smart home functionality.

    Source: The Verge

  • Ferrari Unveils Jony Ive-Designed Interior for Its First All-Electric Supercar

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    Ferrari has unveiled the interior design of its inaugural all-electric supercar, the Ferrari Luce, showcasing a collaboration with Jony Ive, the former chief designer at Apple. The Luce, previously known as Elettrica, marks Ferrari’s foray into the electric vehicle market.

    While the car’s exterior remains under wraps, the interior design hints at Ive’s signature aesthetic of sleek minimalism blended with physical controls, deviating from the expected all-touchscreen interface. The materials used, including anodized aluminum, bear Ive’s distinctive design language, with rounded corners reminiscent of Apple devices.

    The collaboration between Ferrari and Ive’s design firm, LoveFrom, has been ongoing for five years and culminates in the Luce, showcasing a fusion of automotive excellence and tech-inspired elegance. The exterior of the Ferrari Luce is scheduled to be unveiled in May 2026, building anticipation for the complete unveiling of the electric supercar.

    Source: The Verge