Author: Thomas Hawthorne

Intel’s forthcoming Nova Lake-S desktop processors are reportedly undergoing testing with AVX-512 and APX instruction support, signalling the return of advanced 512-bit vector processing to the company’s mainstream desktop platform. Early testing information also points to 24-core and 28-core configurations as Intel prepares its next generation of Core Ultra desktop chips. Intel Tests 24-Core and 28-Core Nova Lake-S Processors Information shared by @InstLatX64 indicates that Intel is testing at least two Nova Lake-S processor configurations. One is a 24-core model operating at 3.4 GHz, while the other features 28 cores running at 3.2 GHz. Both processors reportedly support AVX-512 and…

Polaroid has unveiled a limited-edition Pokémon collection featuring instant cameras, film and accessories, marking the 30th anniversary of the globally recognised entertainment franchise. The range combines familiar Polaroid hardware with designs inspired by characters including Pikachu, Sylveon and Snorlax. The collection is due to open for pre-orders in the UK, US and Canada on 25 August, ahead of a wider global release expected on 5 October. Pokémon Designs Come to Polaroid Instant Cameras The centrepiece of the collection is a trio of limited-edition instant cameras. Rather than introducing new hardware, Polaroid has redesigned existing models with Pokémon-inspired finishes and matching…

Meta is facing a major US court battle over allegations that it deliberately designed its social media platforms to keep children and teenagers engaged while collecting their data. The case, being heard in a federal court in California, could have significant implications for how technology companies design and operate services used by young people. US States Seek Billions From Meta Over Child Privacy Claims Four US states appearing in court are seeking billions of dollars from Meta, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram. They are acting on behalf of a wider group of 29 states that filed legal action…

A group of former Ubisoft Barcelona developers has launched a new independent games company, Dark Ritual Studios, with plans to pursue smaller-scale development and greater creative control. The Barcelona-based studio is already working on its debut title, dark fantasy game Puzzle Mage, which is scheduled for PC release in 2027. Dark Ritual Studios Emerges Following Ubisoft Barcelona Job Cuts The formation of Dark Ritual Studios comes after Ubisoft eliminated 51 positions at its Barcelona operation following the June launch of Assassin’s Creed Black Flag Resynced. Led by founder Myles Kerwin, the new studio brings together former Ubisoft Barcelona staff and…

Apple is expected to unveil the iPhone 18 Pro family in early September, maintaining a launch timetable that has become central to the company’s manufacturing, logistics and retail strategy. The timing is shaped not only by consumer demand but also by semiconductor production, global freight capacity, mobile network upgrade cycles and the wider Apple ecosystem. iPhone 18 Pro Launch Expected on 9 September The iPhone 18 Pro is expected to be unveiled on Wednesday, 9 September, with the timing reflecting Apple’s established autumn product cycle. Manufacturing tens of millions of smartphones for a global launch requires Apple to secure components…

Heathrow Airport has lost its position as Europe’s busiest airport after Istanbul recorded more passengers in July, according to newly released figures. The change comes as the west London hub faces pressure on some international routes while continuing to operate its two runways close to full capacity. Istanbul Overtakes Heathrow in July Passenger Numbers Heathrow said 7.86 million passengers travelled through its four terminals during July. By comparison, Istanbul Airport handled 8.15 million passengers during the same month, putting the Turkish hub ahead. The figures mark a significant shift for Heathrow, which has dominated European airport rankings for much of…

August 2026 is shaping up to be one of the most remarkable months for astronomy enthusiasts, with a packed calendar of celestial events visible across different parts of the world. From a rare total solar eclipse over parts of Europe to the year’s finest Perseid meteor shower, dazzling views of Venus and a dramatic partial lunar eclipse, the month promises exceptional opportunities for anyone looking skywards. While viewing conditions will vary across the UK, several of these events will be visible, making August a particularly rewarding time for British stargazers. August 2026 Skywatching Calendar Dark skies return for Milky Way…

Artificial intelligence is reshaping the way software vulnerabilities are discovered, and Google is responding by accelerating the pace of Chrome security updates. After AI-powered tools uncovered an unprecedented number of issues in recent browser releases, the technology giant is considering issuing updates twice a week to better protect users. Google Speeds Up Chrome Security Updates Amid AI-Driven Bug Discovery Google is reviewing a faster release schedule for its Chrome browser after AI-assisted analysis identified a surge in security vulnerabilities within its codebase. Chrome versions 149 and 150, released only weeks apart, contained a combined 1,072 bug fixes. That figure exceeds…

A new railway station and transport interchange has officially opened in Okehampton, marking a significant investment in public transport infrastructure in Devon. The £18 million development is expected to improve access to Exeter and the wider South West, while encouraging greater use of sustainable transport. New Station Strengthens Dartmoor Line Connections The new Okehampton Interchange adds an additional stop on the Dartmoor Line between Okehampton and Crediton, providing passengers with improved access to rail services connecting to Exeter and beyond. Located close to the A30, one of the South West’s key transport routes, the interchange has been designed to make…

Xbox players across the UK have a fresh selection of games to explore this week as Microsoft’s latest Free Play Days promotion offers a mix of action, strategy, sport and adventure. The limited-time event gives eligible players access to several titles at no additional cost, while two popular games are available to all Xbox users without requiring a Game Pass subscription. From 16 to 21 July, players can experience everything from the criminal underworld of Los Santos to the creative world of wildlife conservation, alongside anime-inspired combat and family-friendly multiplayer sports. Which Games Are Available During Xbox Free Play Days?…