If you plug the world's best-reviewed webcams into the Nintendo Switch 2 today, they won't work, while many comparatively ancient webcams do. Why? That's been a mystery for the nearly three weeks since the handheld launched. Now, two companies say they've figured it out and are pledging to update the firmware on their cameras.Here's a possibly oversimplified answer: today's more powerful webcams advertise many different modes that they support to any device you connect via USB - but that's a problem because the Nintendo Switch 2 appears to be choosing modes it can't properly play.In the case of Elgato, which will update its non-working Facecam MK.2 and Facecam Neo, the solve was adding an additional low-resolution 480p mode, with Elgato general manager Julian Fest speculating that the Switch can only reliably support "very low resolution" cameras in order to put multiple facecams on screen.But low resolution by itself isn't the answer - as you'd probably expect, given that Nintendo's own official Switch 2 camera is a 1080p camera that genuinely broadcasts a 1080p mode (we checked), and given it's far from the only 1080p or higher camera that works with Nintendo's new Switch. …Read the full story at The Verge.

Anthropic is adding a new feature to its Claude AI chatbot that lets you build AI-powered apps right inside the app. The upgrade, launching in beta, builds upon Anthropic’s Artifacts feature introduced last year that lets you see and interact with what you ask Claude to make.“Start building in the Claude app by enabling this new interactive capability,” the company says in a blog post. “Simply describe what you want to create, and Claude will write the code for you.” It basically sounds like vibe coding, but with the ability to see the results right inside Claude. You can briefly see how it all works in a video from Anthropic that shows somebody building a chat app.Early users of the feature have built things like AI-powered games, learning tools, data analysis apps, writing assistants, and even agent workflows that “orchestrate multiple Claude calls for complex tasks,” Claude says. Apps will be able to “interact with Claude through an API.”Anthropic also wants people to share the apps that they make, and it’s encouraging that by making so that somebody else’s API usage of your app “counts against their subscription, not yours.”The feature is available on Anthropic’s Free, Pro, and Max tiers.

Amazon’s next Prime Day event hasn’t officially kicked off yet, but in classic Amazon fashion, the retailer has already dropped a selection of early deals ahead of its four-day sale. While steeper discounts are not likely to arrive until next month, many of the current offers are already worth considering, especially if you’re a Prime member looking to score a deal on one of Amazon’s own devices or services.From record lows on security gear and power stations to a solid deal on what was already an affordable streaming device, these early discounts offer a great chance to save before the real deluge arrives on July 8th. And while most of these offers are exclusive to Prime members, in some cases, other retailers are price-matching Amazon, meaning non-members can still take advantage of some of the same savings.We’ll be updating this guide over the next week or two as new deals drop, so be sure to check back often if you want to stay on top of the latest deals and discounts. We also suggest bookmarking our main Prime Day hub for additional tips, tricks, and insight into what is likely going to be one of the biggest shopping events of the year.Blink Outdoor 4 (with second-gen Blink Video Doorbell)Where to Buy: $139.98 $69.98 at Amazon $189.98 $94.98 at Amazon (two-pack) $249.98 $124.98 at Amazon (three-pack)Amazon-owned Blink is offering steep discounts on a number of security devices ahead of Prime Day. Right now, for example, you can buy the latest Blink Outdoor security camera for just $39.99 ($39.99 off) at Amazon and Best Buy, or two Blink Outdoor 4 XRs — which is the same camera but with a Sync Module XR — for $89.99 ($90 off) at Best Buy. The outdoor security camera offers person detection and a wider field of view than the third-gen Blink Outdoor, while retaining support for motion detection, night vision, and two-way audio. The Sync Module XR just extends the range by up to 400 feet.The best deals, however, are on bundles. For instance, you can grab a Blink Outdoor 4 alongside Blink’s latest Video Doorbell for just $69.98 ($70 off). Alternatively, you can pick up a Blink Video Doorbell with a Blink Outdoor 4 XR for $89.98 ($109.99 off). Blink’s updated doorbell improves on its solid predecessor with a wider 150-degree field of view, sharper 1440p resolution, and a better 1:1 aspect ratio that allows for a head-to-toe view of your porch. It also offers IP65 waterproofing and support for two-way audio / night vision, not to mention an impressive two years of battery life. It even supports person detection, though only with a $3/month Blink subscription plan.Blink Outdoor 4 with Blink Mini 2Where to Buy: $139.98 $64.98 at AmazonIf you don’t need a doorbell, Amazon is also selling a Blink Outdoor 4 with a Blink Mini 2 starting at $64.98 ($75 off), or with the Blink Outdoor 4 XR for $79.98 ($99.99 off). The Mini 2 is a relatively compact 1080p camera that offers motion alerts, two-way audio, and other core features. It’s also a meaningful upgrade over its predecessor, thanks to improved low-light performance, a wider field of view, and USB-C support. You can even use it outdoors given it carries an IP65 rating, though you will need to purchase Blink’s optional Weather-Resistant Power Adapter ($9.99) to do so.Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K (2023)Where to Buy: $49.99 $24.99 at Amazon $49.99 $24.99 at Best Buy $49.99 $28.99 at B&H PhotoAmazon’s Fire TV Stick 4K is on sale for $24.99 ($24.99 off) at Amazon and Best Buy, which is its lowest price of the year. The Fire TV Stick 4K is an excellent streaming device that supports Dolby Vision and HDR10 Plus, allowing you to enjoy sharp, vibrant picture quality on compatible 4K TVs. It also offers support for Dolby Atmos, DTS, and other HDR and surround sound formats, so you can experience more immersive audio whether you’re watching movies or gaming. It integrates well with Alexa and comes with an Alexa Voice Remote, too, so you can search for shows or adjust the volume using your voice.Amazon Fire TV Soundbar Plus Where to Buy: $249.99 $174.99 at AmazonIf you’re looking for better sound than your TV’s built-in speaker can provide, Amazon’s Fire TV Soundbar Plus is down to an all-time low of $174.99 ($75 off) at Amazon. At 37 inches wide, it’s small enough to fit under most TVs, making it a good option for apartments or smaller living rooms. Inside, it features three speakers, three tweeters, and two woofers, along with a dedicated center channel designed to enhance dialogue clarity. It also supports Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, and DTS True Volume, allowing a more immersive listening experience. It features four different listening modes as well — Movie, Music, Sports, and Night — which adjust the sound profile to match what you’re watching, whether you’re after loud, booming sound or a quieter, late-night vibe.Eero Max 7 with the Eero Outdoor 7Where to Buy: $999.99 $699.99 at AmazonWhether you’re juggling smart devices inside or working in the backyard, the Eero Max 7 router and new Eero Outdoor 7 deliver reliable, high-speed Wi-Fi wherever you are on your property. And right now, you can buy both at Amazon as a part of a bundle starting at $699.99 ($300 off), which is a new low price.The Eero Max 7 is designed for high-performance streaming, gaming, and future-proofing your smart home setup. It features Wi-Fi 7 support and speeds up to 10Gbps, with coverage suitable for homes up to 2,500 sq. ft. per unit. For those looking to extend their reliable Wi-Fi signal beyond indoor walls, the Eero Outdoor 7 offers the same high-speed performance but is designed specifically for outdoor environments. It carries an IP66 weatherproof rating — ensuring it can withstand rain, dust, and extreme temperatures — while delivering coverage across up to 15,000 square feet.Ring Doorbell Battery with Ring Indoor CamWhere to Buy: $139.99 $69.99 at AmazonIf you don’t want to buy a Blink security camera, Ring also sells some great security devices that play well with both Alexa and other Ring gadgets. A few of these are on sale right now — including a notable deal that pairs a Ring Doorbell Battery with a Ring Indoor Cam 2, all for $69.99 ($70 off) at Amazon.The battery-powered Ring Doorbell Battery is a basic 1080 buzzer that borrows a couple of features from the Battery Doorbell Plus, which is one of our favorite video doorbells. While it doesn’t have a removable battery, it improves on the older Ring Video Doorbell 2 with a 1:1 aspect ratio and a 150-degree field of view, giving you a full, top-to-bottom view of who or what is at the door. Like the Plus, it also supports color night vision and uses a PIR sensor for motion-activated recording.The Ring Indoor Cam 2, meanwhile, is a basic 1080p camera that supports motion-activated recording, color night vision, and a built-in siren that can be triggered manually from the Ring app. One of its most notable features is the physical privacy shutter, which allows you to block the camera’s lens and disable the microphone. If you pay for a Ring Home subscription, which starts at $4.99 a month, you’ll also gain access to a host of other features, including an in-app SOS button that allows you to request police, fire, or medical help.Amazon Fire HD 10 (2023)Where to Buy: $139.99 $69.99 at Amazon (32GB with ads, refurbished)Normally $139.99, you can currently buy a refurbished Fire HD 10 tablet at Amazon with 32GB of storage and ads for $69.99. With its 10.1-inch HD display, octa-core processor, and 3GB of RAM, the Fire HD 10 is a solid budget slate for entertainment purposes. While it’s not as powerful as an iPad, it handles casual web browsing, reading, and light gaming well enough. Its 1080p screen is one of the best in Amazon’s lineup, too, while built-in stylus support and handwriting recognition mean you can also use it to take notes (though you’ll have to buy the optional Made for Amazon stylus separately).Jackery Explorer 1000 v2Where to Buy: $799 $448.98 at Amazon $799 $449 at JackeryIf you’re looking for a portable power station for outdoor adventures or that inevitable power outage, the Jackery Explorer 1000 V2 is available for an all-time low of around $448.99 ($350 off) from Amazon and Jackery. The 23-pound power station is relatively lightweight and portable, with three AC outlets that can output up to 1,500W. It also boasts a pair of USB-C ports, a single USB-A port, and a DC car port, allowing you to charge phones, laptops, cameras, and even small appliances (including your mini fridge). It also charges significantly faster than prior models and boasts a handy LED light, making it a versatile companion for camping, road trips, and emergencies at home.More ways to saveYou can buy a Ring Pan-Tilt Indoor Cam with a Ring Pet Tag for $44.99 ($44.99 off) at Amazon, which is a new low price. Ring’s Pan-Tilt Indoor Cam rotates 360 degrees on a motorized base, which you can control via the Ring app. The wired 1080p camera also offers a physical privacy cover — just like the second-gen Ring Indoor Cam — along with support for video and color night vision, two-way talk, motion detection, and a built-in siren. The Ring Pet Tag, on the other hand, attaches to your pet’s collar and links to a digital profile anyone can access via a QR code.The Alexa Voice Remote Pro is now available for just $24.99 ($10 off) at Amazon and Best Buy, marking its lowest price to date. The backlit remote features a built-in remote finder, allowing you to quickly locate it using either Amazon’s Fire TV app or a compatible smart speaker. It also features customizable shortcut buttons that you can program to instantly launch your favorite apps, as well as compatibility with most Fire TV streaming devices and smart TVs. Read our review.Amazon is selling the Eero 6 mesh router for $64.99 ($15 off), which is one of its best prices to date. While it lacks Wi-Fi 7 support and isn’t as fast as the newer Eero 7 models, it still delivers up to 900Mbps and covers up to 1,500 sq. ft. It’s a solid, budget-friendly choice for basic streaming, browsing, and smart home use.You can buy an Echo Glow at Amazon for $19.99 ($10 off), which is $3 shy of its lowest price to date. The 100-lumen LED lamp is designed primarily for children, and as such, it can cycle through multiple colors with just a tap, function as a visual timer, and automatically dim when it’s time for bed. It’s also compatible with Alexa, meaning you can control it with your voice when paired with a compatible Echo device.Right now, Amazon is offering a free month of Kindle Unlimited, which normally runs $11.99 a month. The subscription gives you access to more than four million e-books, along with thousands of audiobooks and digital magazines. Just remember to cancel our subscription before the trial period ends if you don’t want to be automatically charged at the end of the limited window.Amazon’s Luna Controller is on sale for $39.99 ($30 off) at Amazon, which matches its best price to date. Although it was built primarily for Amazon’s cloud-gaming service, the gamepad offers support for both Bluetooth and USB-C connectivity, rendering it compatible with Android phones, Apple products, Fire TV devices, and PCs. It also integrates with Alexa, allowing you to issue voice commands directly through the controller when paired with a Fire TV device.

Home Assistant is powerful software and is the cornerstone of many of our smart homes here at XDA. I've spent hours configuring this platform to not only perform some awesome automation depending on input from various sensors and integrations, but it has improved productivity by segmenting my workflow into digestible chunks with regular breaks. Here's how I've configured Home Assistant to help me work better through the week.

WhatsApp can now call on Meta AI to summarize your personal chats. As shown in a GIF, you can access it by tapping the button to unfurl all of your unread messages in a chat. But instead of showing your messages, WhatsApp uses Meta AI to generate a bulleted summary of what you missed.The feature is rolling out in English in the US, with plans to launch in more countries and languages later this year. It uses Meta’s Private Processing technology, which the company claims will prevent it and other third parties from snooping on your messages.WhatsApp, which is owned by Meta, says its AI message summaries are optional, and the feature is turned off by default. You can also use WhatsApp’s “Advanced Privacy” setting to prevent users from using AI features in group chats. We still don’t know if WhatsApp’s AI message summaries will struggle with accuracy, which is something we saw with the launch of Apple’s AI-generated message and notification rundowns.Over the past year, Meta has continued stuffing different AI features into WhatsApp, including a way to ask Meta AI questions from within a chat, as well as a feature that generates images in real time. Some users have grown frustrated by the new Meta AI button in the bottom-right corner of the app that they can’t turn off or remove. Meta also sparked backlash with another change that brought ads to the app — something its founders said they never wanted to do.The app’s Private Processing is supposed to conceal your interactions with its AI model by creating a “secure cloud environment,” preventing Meta or WhatsApp from seeing your summaries. Other people in the group chat won’t be able to see the message summaries, either.

This isn't the lowest price we've seen on this external drive, but it's pretty close, which means it's a great time to pick one up. This Western Digital My Book external HDD is as basic as it gets, providing a simple way to store all your data that matters. The best part is that it doesn't cost all that much right now thanks to a stellar discount that drops the price down to just $260.

The zombie genre started all the way back in the 1980s with Entombed (1982) and Zombie Zombie (1984). Nowadays, the genre has a few prominent titles, but not every game has hit the mark. However, these six zombie games checked all the boxes and are always worth adding to your library.

Meta won a major legal ruling in an AI copyright lawsuit brought by 13 authors alleging that the company illegally trained its AI systems on their work without permission. On Wednesday, Judge Vince Chhabria ruled in Meta’s favor, saying it is “entitled to summary judgment on its fair use defense to the claim that copying these plaintiffs’ books for use as LLM training data was infringement.”However, the judge also pointed out some weak points in the ecosystem of Big Tech’s AI efforts and Meta’s arguments defending its actions as fair use. “This ruling does not stand for the proposition that Meta’s use of copyrighted materials to train its language models is lawful,” Judge Chhabria said. “It stands only for the proposition that these plaintiffs made the wrong arguments and failed to develop a record in support of the right one.” The ruling follows Anthropic’s major fair use victory it won from a separate federal judge yesterday, who ruled that training its models on legally purchased copies of books is fair use. Judge Chhabria says that two of the authors’ arguments about fair use were “clear losers:” the ability for Meta’s Llama AI to reproduce snippets of text from their books and that Meta using their works to train its AI models without permission diluted their ability to license their works for training. “Llama is not capable of generating enough text from the plaintiffs’ books to matter, and the plaintiffs are not entitled to the market for licensing their works as AI training data,” the judge wrote.The plaintiffs didn’t do enough for a “potentially winning argument” that Meta’s copying would create “a product that will likely flood the market with similar works, causing market dilution,” according to Judge Chhabria. He also discussed the Anthropic ruling, saying that Judge William Alsup brushed aside concerns about the harm generative AI could “inflict on the market for the works it gets trained on.”

As a dedicated self-hoster, I’m always on the lookout for tools that simplify my digital life. When it came to file management across my various apps, I discovered a true gem: FileBrowser Quantum. This free and open-source web-based file browser has become crucial to my toolkit. It goes far beyond basic file access and delivers an ultimate centralized hub for all your files.

The Nintendo Switch 2 is going into its third week of sales, and if the number of XDA staff who added one to their console collection is any indication, it's a hit. But you don't have to take our word for it, sales figures are out, and it's officially the fastest-selling hardware Nintendo has released. All of this has been achieved with no major first-party launch titles (sorry, Mario Kart World), no pre-release reviews, and only a handful of third-party titles, most of which are ports from other consoles.

I've never replaced the thermal paste on my graphics card, which is shocking because I've done just about everything else you can do with PC hardware, and broken plenty of components in the process. But I finally decided it was high time to replace the thermal paste on my graphics cards to see what it could do for my performance, and I should've done it sooner.

When breaking an addiction like social media use, different people respond to different stimuli. Some people will only break the habit if there's some kind of reward at the end of it, while others just need to be reminded about what they're doing so that they can stop. And some will keep using social media through hell or high water and require something a little more extreme to break the habit.