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PayPal has unveiled a new advertising solution aimed at transforming how businesses understand and engage with their customers. Introducing PayPal Ads ID, this innovative tool promises to address a long-standing issue in the digital advertising landscape: the challenge of accurately identifying and reaching target audiences. For small business owners, this advancement could offer a significant edge in maximizing their marketing budgets. According to a recent report, a mere 21% of brands and agencies feel confident in their ability to effectively identify their audiences across digital platforms. Traditional methods of audience identification, which often rely on cookie tracking and probabilistic signals, frequently lead to inaccuracies and fragmented insights. PayPal Ads ID aims to solve this problem by offering a deterministic identity solution, grounded in verified commerce relationships through PayPal and Venmo accounts. As noted by Mark Grether, SVP & GM of PayPal Ads, “Identity is the foundation everything else in advertising is built on. For too long, that foundation has been guesswork.” The launch of PayPal Ads ID shifts this paradigm, enabling businesses to engage with customers using verified data at the point of purchase. The core benefits for small business owners are manifold: One of the primary features of PayPal Ads ID is its capacity to enhance audience reach. Many conventional identity solutions falter at the activation stage, where potential customers are lost due to low match rates. On the other hand, PayPal Ads ID draws from more than 25 billion transactions across 400 million accounts, significantly improving ad match rates and effectiveness. Furthermore, the solution allows small business owners to recognize the same audiences across various platforms and devices. This continuity is crucial as consumers frequently use multiple devices to shop. By linking PayPal Ads ID with everyday financial interactions, businesses can maintain consistent outreach and minimize wasted ad spend. Additionally, the tool provides true closed-loop attribution. Traditional identifiers often estimate the impact of ads on sales. PayPal Ads ID aligns transaction data with identity signals, enabling businesses to measure actual outcomes and better understand their advertising effectiveness. Despite its many advantages, small business owners should also consider potential challenges. The effectiveness of PayPal Ads ID relies heavily on the integration with existing ad tech partners. Although PayPal has secured initial collaborations with companies like Magnite and PubMatic, wide adoption and seamless functionality will be essential for maximizing benefits. Moreover, while the solution emphasizes user privacy—through encrypted and aggregated identifiers—small business owners should ensure they understand how to communicate these measures to their customers. Trust will play a key role as consumers become increasingly wary of privacy issues in digital marketing. In summary, PayPal Ads ID brings to the forefront a new era of advertising identity solutions that prioritize verified and actionable data. For small business owners focused on improving their marketing efficacy, the benefits of reaching audiences with greater precision and confidence are clear. As digital advertising continues to evolve, staying informed and adapting to these innovations will be crucial in maintaining a competitive edge. Small business owners interested in PayPal Ads ID can learn more about its capabilities and potential impacts at the original post. Image via Google Gemini This article, "PayPal Launches Groundbreaking Ads ID to Transform Digital Advertising" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

The founder of CNN changed the news industry — and lived large along the wayView the full article

We may earn a commission from links on this page. Deal pricing and availability subject to change after time of publication. Having a powerful monitor with high-end specs can make gaming more immersive and make input lag as small as possible, which is helpful for any serious gamer looking for an edge over their opponents. The Samsung Odyssey G9 is a 49-inch gaming monitor with some impressive specs, including a 240Hz refresh rate and a 1 ms response time. It's available for $699.99 (originally $1,299.99 at launch), $20 off the lowest price it has ever been, according to price-checking tools. Samsung 49-Inch Odyssey G9 DQHD 1000R Curved Gaming Monitor, 240Hz, 1ms(GtG), DisplayHDR 1000, AMD FreeSync Premium Pro, Eye Saver Mode, Auto Source Switch+, LS49CG950ENXZA, 2024 $699.99 at Amazon $999.99 Save $300.00 Get Deal Get Deal $699.99 at Amazon $999.99 Save $300.00 The Odyssey G9 came out in January 2024 as a refresh of the QLED Odyssey G9, sporting a new stand, HDMI 2.1, a black design, and a cheaper listing price (the 2020 version launched at $1,479). In addition to the low response time and high refresh rate, this monitor has Nvidia’s and AMD’s adaptive sync technologies. Its huge 49-inch diagonal screen has a sharp curvature of 1000R and a 178-degree viewing angle. Because of its curve, the monitor measures 11.5 inches front to back, so make sure you have enough space on your desk before buying. The VA screen panel has a 5,120 by 1,440 resolution with a 32:9 aspect ratio, which is equivalent to two side-by-side 2,560 x 1,440 monitors. Since this isn't the OLED version, it can get brighter, reaching 1,000 nits of brightness while still giving you a good contrast ratio of 1,000,000:1. You can swivel, tilt, and adjust the height of the monitor. If you're an Xbox Series X or PS5 gamer, be mindful of the output at 16:9, meaning you'll have empty space on the sides of the screen. Try the even bigger Odyssey Neo G9 if this one isn't enough. Our Best Editor-Vetted Tech Deals Right Now Apple AirPods Pro 3 Noise Cancelling Heart Rate Wireless Earbuds — $199.99 (List Price $249.00) Apple Watch Series 11 [GPS 46mm] Smartwatch with Jet Black Aluminum Case with Black Sport Band - M/L. Sleep Score, Fitness Tracker, Health Monitoring, Always-On Display, Water Resistant — $329.00 (List Price $429.00) Fitbit Versa 4 Fitness Smartwatch (Black) — $149.95 (List Price $199.95) Apple iPad 11" A16 128GB Wi-Fi Tablet (Silver, 2025) — $299.00 (List Price $349.00) Anker 20,000mAh Portable Power Bank With Built-in USB-C Cable — $49.99 (List Price $69.99) Deals are selected by our commerce team View the full article

Sales are booming for Novo Nordisk’s new weight loss pill. In its first earnings report since the release of an alternative to its hit GLP-1 shot, Novo Nordisk’s outlook is looking a bit brighter. The company, which now makes Wegovy in pill form, raised its guidance for the year in light of the first quarter’s success. Novo reported 1.3 million prescriptions for its weight loss pill, which is now available in the U.S., in the first quarter of 2026. The drugmaker plans to launch the pill outside of the U.S. in the second half of the year, expanding the new medication’s reach considerably. “The strong Wegovy performance, combined with continued growth in International Operations, has led us to raise our 2026 guidance for both adjusted sales and adjusted operating profit,” Novo Nordisk CEO Mike Doustdar said in the report. Doustdar added that the company secured FDA approval for a high dose version of Wegovy, formulated for more dramatic weight loss, in March. Novo beat its own expectations in the first quarter of the year, reporting a 32% pop in sales on a constant currency basis and a 65% boost in operating profit. The adjusted numbers are more modest, with a 4% decrease in sales and a 6% dip in operating profit, but that still beat the company’s projections. In light of its quarter, Novo is forecasting adjusted sales and profit declines of 4 to 12% for the year, an improvement to the previous projection of 5 to 13%. The company’s shares perked up by more than 5% on its latest numbers. The company is optimistic that its pill GLP-1 offering will widen the appeal of its weight loss drugs rather than converting existing users of the injectable version. “It’s having not cannibalizations, but a synergetic effect,” CEO Mike Doustdar told CNBC. Pill Pressure Novo’s stock slumped dramatically over the course of the last year, with the Danish drugmaker struggling to recapture the highs it enjoyed in 2024, as GLP-1 medications began to take off. Meanwhile, American rival Eli Lilly’s shares have climbed steadily. Now, the company’s April release of its own weight loss pill, Foundayo, threatens Novo’s plans for a comeback. The Danish drugmaker was first to market with its weight-loss drug Wegovy and that drug’s Type 2 diabetes counterpart Ozempic, but Novo became a victim of its own success. Overwhelming demand led to production struggles, leading to the rise of compounding pharmacies and giving Novo’s direct competitor space to make up lost ground. That dynamic allowed Eli Lilly to explode into the market with its own weight-management drug, Zepbound, and pushed the American drugmaker’s stock to enviable highs. To right the ship, Novo Nordisk parted ways with its longtime CEO, Lars Fruergaard Jørgensen, last year. Jørgensen, who steered the company into an unprecedented boom time for weight-loss drugs, was replaced with Novo Executive Vice President of International Operations Mike Doustdar in August. Novo has its work cut out for it, even as the first company to introduce Americans to a GLP-1 weight loss pill. With its early mover advantage quickly dissolving and aggressive price cuts digging into its bottom line, the Danish drugmaker will need to prove that it can keep up in the market it created. “The numbers with the pill speak for themselves,” Doustdar told CNBC. View the full article

We may earn a commission from links on this page. Deal pricing and availability subject to change after time of publication. At $259.99, this Surface and Office bundle is built around a straightforward pitch: you’re essentially paying for the software and getting a basic laptop. The included Microsoft Office 2024 Home & Business delivers most of that value, with Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, and OneNote, all in a one-time purchase tied to your Microsoft account. It runs offline, avoids subscription fees, and offers a few modern upgrades, such as faster Excel performance on large sheets and AI-assisted suggestions for writing and formatting. PowerPoint now lets you record presentations with video and voice, which can be useful for remote work or classes. Outlook also adds better accessibility checks. The trade-off is that this is not Microsoft 365, so there are no cloud-first extras or future version upgrades baked in. The Surface laptop itself is built for basic, everyday use. The 11.6-inch display is fine for writing documents, browsing, or streaming videos, but it doesn’t look especially sharp by current standards. Performance is similarly modest, with an entry-level processor, 8GB of RAM, and 128GB of storage. That setup handles email, YouTube, and Office apps without much trouble, but it’s not meant for heavier workloads like video editing or design software. Battery life is rated at up to 16 hours, which sounds great, and even if it doesn’t hit that number in real use, it should still get you through most of the day without needing to charge. Overall, this device works best as a secondary laptop, a school machine, or something for kids who need a simple computer for homework and online classes. That said, this is an open-box unit, so while it’s been checked for quality, it may show minor signs of use and only comes with a 90-day third-party warranty. The bigger limitation is the operating system—it runs Windows 11 SE, a stripped-down version of Windows designed for education —and there’s no option to upgrade to the full version of Windows. Also, support for this OS ends in October 2026. The laptop will still work after that, but it does limit how long this setup will feel current. Still, if your main goal is to get a solid Office setup and a simple device for everyday work, this deal makes sense. Our Best Editor-Vetted Tech Deals Right Now Apple AirPods Pro 3 Noise Cancelling Heart Rate Wireless Earbuds — $199.99 (List Price $249.00) Apple Watch Series 11 [GPS 46mm] Smartwatch with Jet Black Aluminum Case with Black Sport Band - M/L. Sleep Score, Fitness Tracker, Health Monitoring, Always-On Display, Water Resistant — $329.00 (List Price $429.00) Fitbit Versa 4 Fitness Smartwatch (Black) — $149.95 (List Price $199.95) Apple iPad 11" A16 128GB Wi-Fi Tablet (Silver, 2025) — $299.00 (List Price $349.00) Anker 20,000mAh Portable Power Bank With Built-in USB-C Cable — $49.99 (List Price $69.99) Deals are selected by our commerce team View the full article

Scaling an eight-figure accounting, tax, law and advisory firm by breaking all the rules. Big 4 Transparency With Dominic Piscopo, CPA Go PRO for members-only access to more CPA Trendlines Research. View the full article

Scaling an eight-figure accounting, tax, law and advisory firm by breaking all the rules. Big 4 Transparency With Dominic Piscopo, CPA Go PRO for members-only access to more CPA Trendlines Research. View the full article

Organizing unique corporate outings can considerably improve team spirit and promote collaboration. Activities like escape rooms challenge communication skills, whereas culinary competitions encourage teamwork under pressure. Outdoor adventures promote physical well-being and create lasting bonds. Creative workshops inspire artistic expression, and community service projects build a sense of purpose. Each of these options contributes to improved morale and dynamics. Explore how these ideas can be customized to fit your team’s needs and objectives. Key Takeaways Organize an escape room experience to enhance teamwork and problem-solving under pressure while promoting friendly competition among team members. Host a culinary competition where teams create dishes, fostering creativity and collaboration in a fun, engaging environment. Plan a scavenger hunt to boost communication and camaraderie through teamwork and friendly rivalry. Arrange outdoor adventures, like zip-lining or hiking, to encourage physical activity and build bonds among colleagues in a natural setting. Conduct creative workshops, such as pottery or candle-making, to inspire collaboration and provide a relaxed atmosphere for idea-sharing. Escape Room Experiences in Houston Escape rooms in Houston provide a unique opportunity for corporate outings, combining entertainment with essential team-building exercises. These interactive experiences require you to solve puzzles and crack codes, enhancing your teamwork and communication skills. Companies can select from various themed escape rooms, which can even be customized to align with specific team goals or corporate values, ensuring relevance to your group. As escape rooms work well for smaller teams, they can likewise accommodate larger groups by offering multiple rooms or challenges simultaneously, promoting friendly competition. This format nurtures camaraderie among participants, making it one of the most engaging corporate outing ideas available. Furthermore, engaging in these challenges boosts morale and improves problem-solving abilities, adding significant value to any office outing ideas you may consider. If you’re looking for group activities in Chicago, the escape room experience in Houston could be a compelling alternative that strengthens your team dynamics. Culinary and Mixology Activities for Team Building Culinary and mixology activities offer unique opportunities for team building, enhancing collaboration and communication among participants. In a mixology workshop, you’ll learn bartending techniques and cocktail crafting, in addition to culinary competitions, like guacamole-making challenges, nurture creativity and problem-solving skills. These hands-on experiences not just create shared memories but additionally contribute to a more cohesive and satisfied workforce. Mixology Workshop Benefits Mixology workshops offer an engaging way to encourage team bonding during the teaching of participants vital skills in cocktail crafting. These workshops improve communication and cooperation through hands-on practice, allowing team members to work together in a relaxed atmosphere. Participants experiment with various recipes, showcasing their creativity and learning fundamental bartending techniques that promote teamwork and quick decision-making. This skill set translates directly to the workplace, improving collaboration. Furthermore, virtual mixology sessions make it possible for remote teams to engage, promoting inclusivity among all members, regardless of location. Overall, the enjoyable nature of mixology workshops boosts morale, contributing to a positive work culture. Consider these unique company outing ideas as effective group activities in Chicago to uplift team spirit. Culinary Competition Highlights What makes culinary competitions an effective tool for team building? These engaging activities encourage teamwork by promoting communication and collaboration. In a timed setting, participants brainstorm ingredient combinations and delegate tasks, improving problem-solving skills. Cooking classes and mixology workshops offer a fun environment for teams to bond, learn new techniques, and enjoy the meals or cocktails they create together. These work outing ideas not only support creativity but likewise improve morale and team dynamics. Here are some culinary competition options to explore: Culinary Activity Benefits Guacamole Making Contest Boosts teamwork and creativity Cooking Classes Teaches new recipes collaboratively Mixology Workshops Improves communication skills Bake-Off Challenges Cultivates healthy competition Team Cook-Offs Strengthens cooperation Nature and Outdoor Activities for Team Bonding When you consider nature and outdoor activities for team bonding, think about engaging outdoor challenges that improve communication and teamwork. Activities like nature exploration at local parks or guided tours can provide both a rejuvenating experience and opportunities for collaboration. Furthermore, participating in conservation projects not merely strengthens team unity but likewise instills a sense of purpose among employees, creating a shared commitment to the environment. Engaging Outdoor Challenges Engaging in outdoor challenges not just provides a revitalizing break from traditional office settings but also cultivates essential teamwork skills among employees. Activities, such as those at Armand Bayou Nature Center, encourage collaboration through conservation projects, enhancing team spirit and corporate social responsibility. Similarly, the Houston Zoo offers customizable experiences that promote creativity and communication among team members. These outdoor challenges stimulate strategic thinking, allowing employees to bond as they traverse natural settings. Statistics show that 75% of employees aged 21 to 35 feel positively about outdoor experiences. Incorporating such group activities in Chicago, IL, into your corporate outings creates lasting memories and reinforces team dynamics through high-energy challenges, making them ideal for memorable group events in Chicago. Nature Exploration Activities Nature exploration activities offer a unique way for teams to bond while enjoying the great outdoors. These experiences not only stimulate creativity but additionally reduce stress, enhancing team dynamics. Here are three benefits of engaging in nature activities: Improved Collaboration: Outdoor challenges promote communication and teamwork, allowing members to strategize and solve problems together in a natural setting. Lasting Memories: Exploring nature cultivates shared experiences that contribute to a positive work culture, strengthening relationships among colleagues. Increased Morale: With a 25% rise in attendance for nature-based activities in 2023, teams are increasingly valuing outdoor experiences that connect them with their environment. Team-Building Conservation Projects Participating in team-building conservation projects not just supports environmental sustainability but also encourages collaboration among colleagues. Engaging in activities at places like Armand Bayou Nature Center allows you to contribute to environmental preservation as you nurture teamwork. Tasks such as planting trees or participating in clean-up drives require coordination, enhancing team spirit and strengthening bonds. These efforts promote corporate social responsibility and provide a stimulating escape from the office, ultimately boosting morale and creativity. Studies show that nature-based projects can lead to a 25% increase in team performance, as you experience a sense of accomplishment and shared purpose. Furthermore, these projects align with the growing trend of employees seeking meaningful work experiences, enhancing job satisfaction and retention rates. Thrilling Adventure Outings to Energize Teams When teams initiate thrilling adventure outings, they not solely step outside their comfort zones but likewise engage in activities that promote collaboration and communication. These outings can considerably boost morale and strengthen team dynamics. Consider the following activities: Zip-lining and rock climbing require trust and effective communication as team members support each other through challenges, nurturing a sense of unity. Go-kart racing and axe throwing improve camaraderie and introduce friendly competition, which can lead to stronger bonds among employees. Outdoor adventure quests encourage strategic thinking and collaboration, allowing teams to navigate obstacles and complete challenges together in a natural setting, eventually improving productivity. Incorporating these adventure sports into corporate outings helps create a more cohesive workforce, as team members learn to rely on one another and develop crucial skills that translate into the workplace. Creative Workshops to Inspire Collaboration Creative workshops serve as an excellent platform for teams to improve collaboration as they explore their artistic sides. Activities like succulent planting and candle-making classes create a relaxed environment, encouraging participants to express their creativity. In these settings, communication flows more freely, nurturing idea-sharing among team members. Venues such as The Mad Potter and Art Cellar of Houston offer art workshops where colleagues can collaborate on projects, enhancing both individual creativity and collective problem-solving skills. Cooking classes likewise provide hands-on experiences, as teams work together to learn new recipes and techniques, eventually enjoying a meal they’ve prepared together. Engaging in these creative workshops can lead to a notable 25% increase in team performance, as shared artistic endeavors strengthen interpersonal relationships. Participants leave with tangible take-home items, like crafted candles or potted succulents, serving as lasting reminders of their teamwork and collaboration during the experience. Competitive Team Challenges for Engagement Team-building activities can take many forms, and competitive challenges present a dynamic way to improve engagement among colleagues. These activities not merely encourage teamwork but additionally improve communication, creating a sense of camaraderie. Here are three effective options to take into account: Escape Rooms: Participants collaborate under time pressure, improving trust and problem-solving skills. Go-Kart Racing: This adrenaline-filled environment emphasizes strategic decision-making and quick reflexes, promoting team bonding through shared excitement. Obstacle Course Races: These outdoor activities encourage physical activity and teamwork, with studies showing a potential 25% increase in overall team performance. Engaging in competitive challenges during company outings can greatly boost employee morale and create lasting memories. Unique Experiences to Foster Connection Though many traditional outings focus on competition, unique experiences can equally play a crucial role in nurturing connections among colleagues. Activities like scavenger hunts and escape rooms not only improve teamwork but also combine problem-solving with a touch of friendly competition, promoting collaboration. Culinary events, such as guacamole-making competitions or cooking classes, encourage creativity and communication, allowing team members to bond over shared culinary challenges. Interactive workshops, like succulent planting or candle making, offer hands-on opportunities for employees to express creativity as they work together in a relaxed setting. Outdoor adventures, such as nature challenges or trips to the zoo, engage employees in collaborative tasks while enjoying nature’s benefits, cultivating team spirit. In addition, participating in volunteer projects strengthens team bonds through shared goals, instilling a sense of purpose and social responsibility that further improves overall cohesion within the team. Each of these unique experiences can greatly contribute to building stronger connections among colleagues. Relaxation and Mindfulness Retreats As organizations seek to improve employee well-being and cultivate a positive work environment, relaxation and mindfulness retreats have emerged as effective solutions. These retreats can notably reduce stress levels, enhancing productivity and overall job satisfaction. Incorporating mindfulness practices like meditation and yoga encourages a healthier work-life balance and builds emotional resilience among team members. Here are three key benefits of such retreats: Enhanced Focus: Mindfulness workshops help improve concentration and clarity in work tasks. Team-Building: Activities, such as guided nature walks and collaborative exercises, encourage open communication and strengthen relationships. Return on Investment: Companies investing in wellness can see returns of up to 400% through reduced healthcare costs and improved employee performance. Community Service Projects for a Greater Cause Community service projects offer you and your team a chance to engage in meaningful activities that support local charities as well as encouraging teamwork. By participating in these initiatives, you can develop valuable skills, improve employee morale, and positively impact your community. These experiences not just strengthen team bonds but likewise reflect your company’s commitment to social responsibility, creating a sense of pride among employees. Team Engagement Opportunities Participating in community service projects offers an excellent opportunity for teams to improve engagement as they contribute to a greater cause. Here are some key benefits: Fosters Team Unity: Working together on shared goals encourages collaboration, leading to stronger camaraderie among team members. Improves Morale: Engaging in volunteer work boosts employee satisfaction, which contributes to a positive work culture and increases overall productivity. Promotes Corporate Responsibility: By giving back to local communities, companies improve their image as well as encouraging employees to become personally invested in their work. Furthermore, post-event discussions can provide valuable insights into team dynamics and values, reinforcing the connections formed during these shared experiences. This holistic approach not merely benefits the community but strengthens the organization as a whole. Skill Development and Growth Engaging in community service projects not just promotes team unity but also serves as a platform for substantial skill development and growth. These initiatives require collaboration, enhancing your interpersonal skills and nurturing group cohesion among employees. When you engage in philanthropic efforts, you’re likely to experience increased job satisfaction; studies show that 70% of employees feel more positive about their organization through community involvement. Furthermore, these projects allow you to practice essential skills such as leadership, communication, and problem-solving in real-world scenarios. Teams often report a 25% productivity boost when working together on charitable initiatives, creating lasting bonds and a sense of belonging within the workplace. In the end, community service can greatly enrich both personal and professional development. Community Impact and Benefits Although many companies seek ways to improve their local impact, community service projects offer a unique opportunity for organizations to contribute meaningfully to their surrounding areas. Engaging in these initiatives not just benefits local charities but additionally cultivates teamwork among employees. Here are three key benefits of participating in community service: Enhanced Teamwork: Employees work together on shared goals, strengthening bonds through collaboration. Increased Satisfaction: Studies show that employees involved in community service feel 25% more fulfilled in their roles, enhancing morale. Improved Company Image: Community engagement boosts your organization’s reputation, helping with employee retention, as 70% report a greater sense of belonging when participating in charitable initiatives. Post-event discussions additionally encourage reflection on these shared experiences, creating a sense of collective purpose. Social Activities to Enhance Team Morale When teams participate in social activities, they often find that these experiences considerably improve morale and strengthen relationships. Engaging in events like scavenger hunts improves teamwork through friendly competition, nurturing better collaboration. Culinary competitions, such as guacamole making or cooking classes, encourage creativity and quick decision-making, promoting bonds in a relaxed setting. Outdoor adventures, including zip-lining or hiking, not merely boost physical well-being but additionally allow employees to connect with nature and each other. Creative workshops, like pottery or painting classes, stimulate artistic expression and teamwork, creating a supportive environment. Incorporating volunteer projects into outings strengthens team spirit through shared goals, improving your company’s social responsibility. Activity Type Benefits Scavenger Hunts Improves teamwork and communication Culinary Competitions Nurtures creativity and quick decision-making Outdoor Adventures Promotes physical well-being and camaraderie Creative Workshops Stimulates artistic expression and collaboration Seasonal and Themed Events for Fun Corporate outings can take on even more significance through seasonal and themed events. These occasions encourage a sense of community and celebration among team members, enhancing overall morale. Engaging in seasonal activities not just promotes teamwork but additionally helps build lasting memories. Here are three ideas to reflect on: Fall Festivities: Organize pumpkin carving contests or hayrides to encourage creativity and collaboration. Summer Fun: Host beach games or outdoor picnics, providing opportunities for relaxation and bonding outside the office. Themed Celebrations: Plan costume parties or cultural events that allow employees to express their individuality as they connect over shared interests. Incorporating seasonal team-building challenges, like scavenger hunts or holiday-themed escape rooms, boosts engagement considerably. Research shows that themed corporate outings can lead to a 20% increase in employee satisfaction, making these events not just enjoyable but valuable for strengthening team dynamics. Frequently Asked Questions What Are Team Building Activities for Outing? Team building activities for outings can range from interactive experiences to outdoor adventures. You might consider escape rooms or scavenger hunts, which improve critical thinking and teamwork. Culinary competitions, like guacamole making, encourage creativity and quick decision-making. Outdoor activities, such as hiking or zip-lining, promote physical health and strengthen connections through shared experiences. Moreover, volunteering for community service projects can elevate social responsibility as well as solidifying team cohesion through collaborative efforts. What Is the 15 Minute Team Energiser? The 15 Minute Team Energiser is a brief activity aimed at boosting energy and morale during meetings. It typically involves physical movement, like stretching or light aerobic exercises, to improve blood flow and sharpen focus. Incorporating fun elements, such as team games or challenges, encourages collaboration among colleagues in a relaxed setting. Regularly using these energizers can lead to increased productivity, creativity, and a more positive work culture, ultimately enhancing employee satisfaction. What Are the Big Five Teamwork Activities? The big five teamwork activities include escape rooms, cooking classes, outdoor adventures, volunteer projects, and mixology workshops. Escape rooms improve problem-solving and collaboration under pressure. Cooking classes promote communication through culinary teamwork. Outdoor adventures like hiking cultivate camaraderie and strategic thinking. Volunteer projects create a sense of purpose and community impact, strengthening bonds. Finally, mixology workshops offer a fun way to learn together as well as improving cooperation, making them effective for team building. What Are the 7 C’s of Team Building? The 7 C’s of team building are crucial for nurturing effective teamwork. They include Communication, which improves openness and collaboration; Cohesion, promoting trust and a willingness to work together; collaboration, focusing on leveraging each member’s strengths; Creativity, encouraging innovative problem-solving; and Commitment, signifying team members’ dedication to shared goals. These elements collectively enhance team dynamics, boost morale, and drive productivity, in the end leading to higher performance and job satisfaction within the group. Conclusion In summary, exploring unique corporate outing ideas can greatly improve team spirit and collaboration among employees. Activities such as escape rooms, culinary challenges, and outdoor adventures not just promote teamwork but also encourage creativity and communication. Furthermore, engaging in creative workshops and community service projects nurtures a sense of purpose and connection. By incorporating these diverse experiences, organizations can build stronger, more cohesive teams, ultimately leading to better workplace dynamics and productivity. Image via Google Gemini and ArtSmart This article, "Unique Corporate Outing Ideas to Boost Team Spirit" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Organizing unique corporate outings can considerably improve team spirit and promote collaboration. Activities like escape rooms challenge communication skills, whereas culinary competitions encourage teamwork under pressure. Outdoor adventures promote physical well-being and create lasting bonds. Creative workshops inspire artistic expression, and community service projects build a sense of purpose. Each of these options contributes to improved morale and dynamics. Explore how these ideas can be customized to fit your team’s needs and objectives. Key Takeaways Organize an escape room experience to enhance teamwork and problem-solving under pressure while promoting friendly competition among team members. Host a culinary competition where teams create dishes, fostering creativity and collaboration in a fun, engaging environment. Plan a scavenger hunt to boost communication and camaraderie through teamwork and friendly rivalry. Arrange outdoor adventures, like zip-lining or hiking, to encourage physical activity and build bonds among colleagues in a natural setting. Conduct creative workshops, such as pottery or candle-making, to inspire collaboration and provide a relaxed atmosphere for idea-sharing. Escape Room Experiences in Houston Escape rooms in Houston provide a unique opportunity for corporate outings, combining entertainment with essential team-building exercises. These interactive experiences require you to solve puzzles and crack codes, enhancing your teamwork and communication skills. Companies can select from various themed escape rooms, which can even be customized to align with specific team goals or corporate values, ensuring relevance to your group. As escape rooms work well for smaller teams, they can likewise accommodate larger groups by offering multiple rooms or challenges simultaneously, promoting friendly competition. This format nurtures camaraderie among participants, making it one of the most engaging corporate outing ideas available. Furthermore, engaging in these challenges boosts morale and improves problem-solving abilities, adding significant value to any office outing ideas you may consider. If you’re looking for group activities in Chicago, the escape room experience in Houston could be a compelling alternative that strengthens your team dynamics. Culinary and Mixology Activities for Team Building Culinary and mixology activities offer unique opportunities for team building, enhancing collaboration and communication among participants. In a mixology workshop, you’ll learn bartending techniques and cocktail crafting, in addition to culinary competitions, like guacamole-making challenges, nurture creativity and problem-solving skills. These hands-on experiences not just create shared memories but additionally contribute to a more cohesive and satisfied workforce. Mixology Workshop Benefits Mixology workshops offer an engaging way to encourage team bonding during the teaching of participants vital skills in cocktail crafting. These workshops improve communication and cooperation through hands-on practice, allowing team members to work together in a relaxed atmosphere. Participants experiment with various recipes, showcasing their creativity and learning fundamental bartending techniques that promote teamwork and quick decision-making. This skill set translates directly to the workplace, improving collaboration. Furthermore, virtual mixology sessions make it possible for remote teams to engage, promoting inclusivity among all members, regardless of location. Overall, the enjoyable nature of mixology workshops boosts morale, contributing to a positive work culture. Consider these unique company outing ideas as effective group activities in Chicago to uplift team spirit. Culinary Competition Highlights What makes culinary competitions an effective tool for team building? These engaging activities encourage teamwork by promoting communication and collaboration. In a timed setting, participants brainstorm ingredient combinations and delegate tasks, improving problem-solving skills. Cooking classes and mixology workshops offer a fun environment for teams to bond, learn new techniques, and enjoy the meals or cocktails they create together. These work outing ideas not only support creativity but likewise improve morale and team dynamics. Here are some culinary competition options to explore: Culinary Activity Benefits Guacamole Making Contest Boosts teamwork and creativity Cooking Classes Teaches new recipes collaboratively Mixology Workshops Improves communication skills Bake-Off Challenges Cultivates healthy competition Team Cook-Offs Strengthens cooperation Nature and Outdoor Activities for Team Bonding When you consider nature and outdoor activities for team bonding, think about engaging outdoor challenges that improve communication and teamwork. Activities like nature exploration at local parks or guided tours can provide both a rejuvenating experience and opportunities for collaboration. Furthermore, participating in conservation projects not merely strengthens team unity but likewise instills a sense of purpose among employees, creating a shared commitment to the environment. Engaging Outdoor Challenges Engaging in outdoor challenges not just provides a revitalizing break from traditional office settings but also cultivates essential teamwork skills among employees. Activities, such as those at Armand Bayou Nature Center, encourage collaboration through conservation projects, enhancing team spirit and corporate social responsibility. Similarly, the Houston Zoo offers customizable experiences that promote creativity and communication among team members. These outdoor challenges stimulate strategic thinking, allowing employees to bond as they traverse natural settings. Statistics show that 75% of employees aged 21 to 35 feel positively about outdoor experiences. Incorporating such group activities in Chicago, IL, into your corporate outings creates lasting memories and reinforces team dynamics through high-energy challenges, making them ideal for memorable group events in Chicago. Nature Exploration Activities Nature exploration activities offer a unique way for teams to bond while enjoying the great outdoors. These experiences not only stimulate creativity but additionally reduce stress, enhancing team dynamics. Here are three benefits of engaging in nature activities: Improved Collaboration: Outdoor challenges promote communication and teamwork, allowing members to strategize and solve problems together in a natural setting. Lasting Memories: Exploring nature cultivates shared experiences that contribute to a positive work culture, strengthening relationships among colleagues. Increased Morale: With a 25% rise in attendance for nature-based activities in 2023, teams are increasingly valuing outdoor experiences that connect them with their environment. Team-Building Conservation Projects Participating in team-building conservation projects not just supports environmental sustainability but also encourages collaboration among colleagues. Engaging in activities at places like Armand Bayou Nature Center allows you to contribute to environmental preservation as you nurture teamwork. Tasks such as planting trees or participating in clean-up drives require coordination, enhancing team spirit and strengthening bonds. These efforts promote corporate social responsibility and provide a stimulating escape from the office, ultimately boosting morale and creativity. Studies show that nature-based projects can lead to a 25% increase in team performance, as you experience a sense of accomplishment and shared purpose. Furthermore, these projects align with the growing trend of employees seeking meaningful work experiences, enhancing job satisfaction and retention rates. Thrilling Adventure Outings to Energize Teams When teams initiate thrilling adventure outings, they not solely step outside their comfort zones but likewise engage in activities that promote collaboration and communication. These outings can considerably boost morale and strengthen team dynamics. Consider the following activities: Zip-lining and rock climbing require trust and effective communication as team members support each other through challenges, nurturing a sense of unity. Go-kart racing and axe throwing improve camaraderie and introduce friendly competition, which can lead to stronger bonds among employees. Outdoor adventure quests encourage strategic thinking and collaboration, allowing teams to navigate obstacles and complete challenges together in a natural setting, eventually improving productivity. Incorporating these adventure sports into corporate outings helps create a more cohesive workforce, as team members learn to rely on one another and develop crucial skills that translate into the workplace. Creative Workshops to Inspire Collaboration Creative workshops serve as an excellent platform for teams to improve collaboration as they explore their artistic sides. Activities like succulent planting and candle-making classes create a relaxed environment, encouraging participants to express their creativity. In these settings, communication flows more freely, nurturing idea-sharing among team members. Venues such as The Mad Potter and Art Cellar of Houston offer art workshops where colleagues can collaborate on projects, enhancing both individual creativity and collective problem-solving skills. Cooking classes likewise provide hands-on experiences, as teams work together to learn new recipes and techniques, eventually enjoying a meal they’ve prepared together. Engaging in these creative workshops can lead to a notable 25% increase in team performance, as shared artistic endeavors strengthen interpersonal relationships. Participants leave with tangible take-home items, like crafted candles or potted succulents, serving as lasting reminders of their teamwork and collaboration during the experience. Competitive Team Challenges for Engagement Team-building activities can take many forms, and competitive challenges present a dynamic way to improve engagement among colleagues. These activities not merely encourage teamwork but additionally improve communication, creating a sense of camaraderie. Here are three effective options to take into account: Escape Rooms: Participants collaborate under time pressure, improving trust and problem-solving skills. Go-Kart Racing: This adrenaline-filled environment emphasizes strategic decision-making and quick reflexes, promoting team bonding through shared excitement. Obstacle Course Races: These outdoor activities encourage physical activity and teamwork, with studies showing a potential 25% increase in overall team performance. Engaging in competitive challenges during company outings can greatly boost employee morale and create lasting memories. Unique Experiences to Foster Connection Though many traditional outings focus on competition, unique experiences can equally play a crucial role in nurturing connections among colleagues. Activities like scavenger hunts and escape rooms not only improve teamwork but also combine problem-solving with a touch of friendly competition, promoting collaboration. Culinary events, such as guacamole-making competitions or cooking classes, encourage creativity and communication, allowing team members to bond over shared culinary challenges. Interactive workshops, like succulent planting or candle making, offer hands-on opportunities for employees to express creativity as they work together in a relaxed setting. Outdoor adventures, such as nature challenges or trips to the zoo, engage employees in collaborative tasks while enjoying nature’s benefits, cultivating team spirit. In addition, participating in volunteer projects strengthens team bonds through shared goals, instilling a sense of purpose and social responsibility that further improves overall cohesion within the team. Each of these unique experiences can greatly contribute to building stronger connections among colleagues. Relaxation and Mindfulness Retreats As organizations seek to improve employee well-being and cultivate a positive work environment, relaxation and mindfulness retreats have emerged as effective solutions. These retreats can notably reduce stress levels, enhancing productivity and overall job satisfaction. Incorporating mindfulness practices like meditation and yoga encourages a healthier work-life balance and builds emotional resilience among team members. Here are three key benefits of such retreats: Enhanced Focus: Mindfulness workshops help improve concentration and clarity in work tasks. Team-Building: Activities, such as guided nature walks and collaborative exercises, encourage open communication and strengthen relationships. Return on Investment: Companies investing in wellness can see returns of up to 400% through reduced healthcare costs and improved employee performance. Community Service Projects for a Greater Cause Community service projects offer you and your team a chance to engage in meaningful activities that support local charities as well as encouraging teamwork. By participating in these initiatives, you can develop valuable skills, improve employee morale, and positively impact your community. These experiences not just strengthen team bonds but likewise reflect your company’s commitment to social responsibility, creating a sense of pride among employees. Team Engagement Opportunities Participating in community service projects offers an excellent opportunity for teams to improve engagement as they contribute to a greater cause. Here are some key benefits: Fosters Team Unity: Working together on shared goals encourages collaboration, leading to stronger camaraderie among team members. Improves Morale: Engaging in volunteer work boosts employee satisfaction, which contributes to a positive work culture and increases overall productivity. Promotes Corporate Responsibility: By giving back to local communities, companies improve their image as well as encouraging employees to become personally invested in their work. Furthermore, post-event discussions can provide valuable insights into team dynamics and values, reinforcing the connections formed during these shared experiences. This holistic approach not merely benefits the community but strengthens the organization as a whole. Skill Development and Growth Engaging in community service projects not just promotes team unity but also serves as a platform for substantial skill development and growth. These initiatives require collaboration, enhancing your interpersonal skills and nurturing group cohesion among employees. When you engage in philanthropic efforts, you’re likely to experience increased job satisfaction; studies show that 70% of employees feel more positive about their organization through community involvement. Furthermore, these projects allow you to practice essential skills such as leadership, communication, and problem-solving in real-world scenarios. Teams often report a 25% productivity boost when working together on charitable initiatives, creating lasting bonds and a sense of belonging within the workplace. In the end, community service can greatly enrich both personal and professional development. Community Impact and Benefits Although many companies seek ways to improve their local impact, community service projects offer a unique opportunity for organizations to contribute meaningfully to their surrounding areas. Engaging in these initiatives not just benefits local charities but additionally cultivates teamwork among employees. Here are three key benefits of participating in community service: Enhanced Teamwork: Employees work together on shared goals, strengthening bonds through collaboration. Increased Satisfaction: Studies show that employees involved in community service feel 25% more fulfilled in their roles, enhancing morale. Improved Company Image: Community engagement boosts your organization’s reputation, helping with employee retention, as 70% report a greater sense of belonging when participating in charitable initiatives. Post-event discussions additionally encourage reflection on these shared experiences, creating a sense of collective purpose. Social Activities to Enhance Team Morale When teams participate in social activities, they often find that these experiences considerably improve morale and strengthen relationships. Engaging in events like scavenger hunts improves teamwork through friendly competition, nurturing better collaboration. Culinary competitions, such as guacamole making or cooking classes, encourage creativity and quick decision-making, promoting bonds in a relaxed setting. Outdoor adventures, including zip-lining or hiking, not merely boost physical well-being but additionally allow employees to connect with nature and each other. Creative workshops, like pottery or painting classes, stimulate artistic expression and teamwork, creating a supportive environment. Incorporating volunteer projects into outings strengthens team spirit through shared goals, improving your company’s social responsibility. Activity Type Benefits Scavenger Hunts Improves teamwork and communication Culinary Competitions Nurtures creativity and quick decision-making Outdoor Adventures Promotes physical well-being and camaraderie Creative Workshops Stimulates artistic expression and collaboration Seasonal and Themed Events for Fun Corporate outings can take on even more significance through seasonal and themed events. These occasions encourage a sense of community and celebration among team members, enhancing overall morale. Engaging in seasonal activities not just promotes teamwork but additionally helps build lasting memories. Here are three ideas to reflect on: Fall Festivities: Organize pumpkin carving contests or hayrides to encourage creativity and collaboration. Summer Fun: Host beach games or outdoor picnics, providing opportunities for relaxation and bonding outside the office. Themed Celebrations: Plan costume parties or cultural events that allow employees to express their individuality as they connect over shared interests. Incorporating seasonal team-building challenges, like scavenger hunts or holiday-themed escape rooms, boosts engagement considerably. Research shows that themed corporate outings can lead to a 20% increase in employee satisfaction, making these events not just enjoyable but valuable for strengthening team dynamics. Frequently Asked Questions What Are Team Building Activities for Outing? Team building activities for outings can range from interactive experiences to outdoor adventures. You might consider escape rooms or scavenger hunts, which improve critical thinking and teamwork. Culinary competitions, like guacamole making, encourage creativity and quick decision-making. Outdoor activities, such as hiking or zip-lining, promote physical health and strengthen connections through shared experiences. Moreover, volunteering for community service projects can elevate social responsibility as well as solidifying team cohesion through collaborative efforts. What Is the 15 Minute Team Energiser? The 15 Minute Team Energiser is a brief activity aimed at boosting energy and morale during meetings. It typically involves physical movement, like stretching or light aerobic exercises, to improve blood flow and sharpen focus. Incorporating fun elements, such as team games or challenges, encourages collaboration among colleagues in a relaxed setting. Regularly using these energizers can lead to increased productivity, creativity, and a more positive work culture, ultimately enhancing employee satisfaction. What Are the Big Five Teamwork Activities? The big five teamwork activities include escape rooms, cooking classes, outdoor adventures, volunteer projects, and mixology workshops. Escape rooms improve problem-solving and collaboration under pressure. Cooking classes promote communication through culinary teamwork. Outdoor adventures like hiking cultivate camaraderie and strategic thinking. Volunteer projects create a sense of purpose and community impact, strengthening bonds. Finally, mixology workshops offer a fun way to learn together as well as improving cooperation, making them effective for team building. What Are the 7 C’s of Team Building? The 7 C’s of team building are crucial for nurturing effective teamwork. They include Communication, which improves openness and collaboration; Cohesion, promoting trust and a willingness to work together; collaboration, focusing on leveraging each member’s strengths; Creativity, encouraging innovative problem-solving; and Commitment, signifying team members’ dedication to shared goals. These elements collectively enhance team dynamics, boost morale, and drive productivity, in the end leading to higher performance and job satisfaction within the group. Conclusion In summary, exploring unique corporate outing ideas can greatly improve team spirit and collaboration among employees. Activities such as escape rooms, culinary challenges, and outdoor adventures not just promote teamwork but also encourage creativity and communication. Furthermore, engaging in creative workshops and community service projects nurtures a sense of purpose and connection. By incorporating these diverse experiences, organizations can build stronger, more cohesive teams, ultimately leading to better workplace dynamics and productivity. Image via Google Gemini and ArtSmart This article, "Unique Corporate Outing Ideas to Boost Team Spirit" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Yesterday, Giorgia Meloni posted to X an AI-generated photo of herself wearing only lingerie. The Italian prime minister published the image to warn others about how easy it is to create perfectly believable images and videos. Her warning: Never believe anything you see without thoroughly fact-checking it. After all, we live in the end of reality. “Deepfakes are a dangerous tool, because they can deceive, manipulate, and hit anyone,” Meloni said on X. “I can defend myself. Many others don’t.” She is right, even though the image is not technically a deepfake. It’s a fully AI-generated photo that features her face. Unlike early deepfakes, which simply switched the face of one human in a base source photo with the face of another human, generative AI can use different components—like real faces, bodies, places, voices, and sounds—to create a 100% new synthetic media. This process makes its true nature virtually, if not completely, undetectable: Since you can’t reverse-search and match the base image to an original source on the web, you can believe it is original (and real). Twitter/X Meloni has already sued two men for creating a deepfake porn video of her in 2024. This time around, she joked that the fakes look “a lot” better than herself and posted the image as a very 2026 PSA. “This is why a rule should always apply: Check before believing, and believe before sharing. Because today it happens to me; tomorrow it can happen to anyone,” she wrote. Meloni showed courage by putting herself out there, but more must be done than doling out advice. We are way past the point of education. The world needs action. Generative AI poses an existential danger to humanity. It can weaponize our psychological biases, effectively destroying our shared sense of objective reality. Just look at the last few months. There’s Jessica Foster, an AI-generated, pro-The President military influencer who amassed a million followers in just three months to funnel men toward an adult fetish site (her account was later deleted from Instagram). And even though Foster’s digital persona was riddled with obvious rendering glitches and absurd scenarios, unlike Meloni’s images, her followers willfully ignored them because the mirage perfectly satisfied their ideological fantasies. When a legitimate video was released proving that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was alive following assassination rumors, the internet—aided by hallucinating AI chatbots—instantly and falsely dismissed the footage as a deepfake. Even after independent analysts and fact-checkers provided irrefutable proof that the video was authentic, the evidence failed to sway those who preferred their own conspiracy theories. Every politician must act now Trapped in this unreal dystopia where the perimeter of objective truth has been completely vaporized by tech giants, society needs more than an X post. Public awareness and educational campaigns are no longer sufficient to combat the huge human and economical cost that this is already causing. The only remaining exit strategy to save our shared reality is for global governments to aggressively intervene and force technology companies to adopt hardware and software that can authenticate real photos, videos, and audio beyond any shadow of a doubt. In March, a team at ETH Zurich proposed the only solution that feels serious enough for the scale of the threat: sensors that cryptographically sign an image at the exact moment light and audio hit them. Unlike today’s systems, which stamp authenticity later through the device’s main processor and can therefore be intercepted or tricked, this design locks verification directly into the act of capture itself. In plain terms, it would make it vastly harder to pass off synthetic media as real, because the proof of authenticity would be born inside the hardware, not added afterward by software that can be spoofed. That way, people can look for the “stamp of truth” in any media published everywhere, from publications to social networks. And anything without that stamp, like Meloni says, should be automatically doubted and disregarded. States must also act to give tools to their citizens to take down any image that uses their faces, by enabling laws like the Digital Millennium Copyright Act in the U.S. But rather than forcing regular people to copyright themselves, they should be able to easily take down any unauthorized AI versions of themselves in any public web or social network. Right now, only the Danish government has done this. In an effort to offer protection against AI cloning of its citizens, last year the country rewrote its legal code to guarantee that residents strictly own the rights to their biological faces and natural speaking voices. Danish Culture Minister Jakob Engel-Schmidt summed it up perfectly back then: “Human beings can be run through the digital copy machine and be misused for all sorts of purposes, and I’m not willing to accept that.” The Meloni case, one of millions, shows once again that the Danish minister for culture is 200% right when he declared the urgency of the law his government passed. We need to stop this problem decisively with those tools and any others that lawmakers and engineers can come up with. Fake images—as long as they are within existing legal limits—can coexist with reality just fine. But the tech giants profiting off of this problem have to act now. View the full article

Dino Lack will lead Union Home's efforts to improve the lending experience through advanced workflow automation and artificial intelligence integration. View the full article

Google's AI search is getting a handful of updates designed to highlight first-hand information sourced from discussion boards and social media posts along with your trusted news sources and subscriptions. Notably, AI responses will now show "expert advice" pulled from online forums like Reddit, highlighting specific quotes and linking to discussions related to your search queries. With this "preview of perspectives," you'll also see additional context for the discussion, including the creator's name, handle, or community name. It should go without saying, but even when the results are billed as "expert advice" sourced from forums you'd typically go to for answers, you shouldn't blindly take them as fact. As TechCrunch notes, AI isn't great at detecting sarcasm and humor, and Google's AI Overviews have often recycled jokes made on Reddit as serious advice. In general, generative AI is also known to hallucinate, simply making things up and presenting everything from fake news summaries to non-existent legal advice with confidence. While AI Overview may be accurate around 90% of the time, according to a New York Times analysis, that means at least one in 10 responses will still contain errors. In some ways, Google is facilitating fact-checking with other AI search updates: Source links will appear within AI responses next to the relevant text or bullet points, and you can hover over inline links to see a preview of the website before clicking through. AI Mode and AI Overviews will also highlight content from your news subscriptions first, so you know information is coming from sources you trust. However, you should still do the extra legwork to ensure the information AI provides is legitimate. At the very least, click through to the source material cited to ensure it actually says what the AI claims it does, and assess whether the source itself is trustworthy. (Remember that "user-generated" doesn't necessarily mean "expert.") And use lateral reading strategies to find reputable sources supporting or refuting AI's claims. View the full article

In the recent post on people applying for jobs that were clearly at odds with what they wanted to do, one theme that came up over and over was candidates who were way too honest in interviews. Here are 11 of my favorite stories you shared that fit that category. 1. The competition A candidate once wrote in their cover letter that their dream was to one day work for [our competitor] and they saw us a an important stepping stone to getting there. 2. The mole I was working for a very progressive Democratic candidate’s campaign, hiring a finance director. Someone with two decades of experience working in Republican offices applied. I decided to phone screen him just out of curiosity, and when I asked him why the switch to the other side of the aisle, he said his politics hadn’t changed – he just wanted the inside scoop on what we were working on. 3. The borrowed research A presentation by an applicant for a faculty position in computer science began poorly when the fellow couldn’t get his slides to work. The candidacy really tanked when, following the research presentation, he answered a question about the material with, “Well, I don’t know. This isn’t actually my research, but I thought it was interesting.” 4. The wrong answer I used to interview people for software quality engineering roles, as distinct from software engineering — different job responsibilities, different expectations, and it was always useful to make that clear right at the start to smoke out people who were just going to try to switch in six months. I got on one interview call (at 2 am my time, mind you — global company), started right off with, “Why do you want to be a quality engineer?” and he responded “I don’t.” Shortest interview I’ve ever done. 5. The aspiring film director I was trying for my first career-type job out of college. I was recently graduated communications major with a concentration in film production and was interviewing to be an office manager at an advertising firm that did a lot of commercial shoots. The second person to come in the room to interview me asked, “So, describe your dream job to me.” Friends, I did not know this was meant to be a “describe the job you’re applying for or maybe where you’d be in five years” question. I proceeded to talk at length about being a feature film director. I did not get that job. I also didn’t end up even getting into the film/TV industry, but I am all the happier for it. 6. The infiltrator I work in entertainment. About 10 years ago, I was at a production company that prided itself on connecting with its fans and would take a meeting with pretty much anyone. One person we met with asked us for an internship and was very clear that he wanted to be part of the company because he was not a fan of our work. Our sub-genre was not his preferred sub-genre, and so he planned to infiltrate the company and take us down from the inside. We explained that this wasn’t the way to get more of his preferred content made and wouldn’t be taking him on. He was shocked. Years later, the company did go under, but not because of him. 7. The Francophile My favorite cover letter I’ve ever reviewed was for a run-of-the-mill admin assistant temp position at a U.S.-based study abroad provider for college students. While there were other teams in the company that had lots of travel and excitement, this position was helping process application materials and answering phones. We tried to be up-front about this in our listing and our screening/interviews, as sometimes people would apply to “get a foot in the door” and then leave when they realized we needed them to commit to this very unexciting work. We received an application with a two-page cover letter that read more like a personal essay than a professional document. In the letter, this candidate explained that she had worked doing very similar admin work for two years very successfully, but while on a lunch break in a park realized that she hated admin work and needed to move to Paris immediately. She quit on the spot and moved to Paris and loved living in France, but now she was back in the U.S. and needed a job. It is the only time I’ve read a cover letter that laid out, in explicit detail, why the candidate would not be happy to do the job for which they were applying. 8. The teacher Interviewed a candidate for a position that was primarily teaching. At one point during the interview I needed to hand her off to a different person so that I could go teach, one of the things that she would have been doing if she got the job. I explained that’s where I was going and she laughed and said, “Oh, I totally understand. I just HATE teaching!” 9. The third choice I was interviewing a candidate for an intellectual property attorney position at a federal government agency. A standard question is, “Why do you want to work here?” He made it clear that he would prefer private practice or a corporation and we were his third choice. He did not get a second interview. 10. The software developer While doing phone screens for a junior software developer, we asked all the candidates, “Why are you interested in software development?” (or some similar phrasing). One candidate answered, “I don’t know if I really am.” They did not get invited for an in-person interview. 11. The thief I was doing induction for a small group of new starters, explaining to them our CRM system and the customer information database behind it. From one guy I got a lot of technical questions — How is the data formatted? How easy is to run queries locally? Can the results be stored on a flash drive? — so asked outright, “Why do you want to know?” Back came the reply: “I’ve downloaded the customer databases of my last three jobs ready to start my own company in future. I just wanted to know how simple it’ll be to do that here before I leave.” I finished my CRM presentation and left via the HR office. The guy was escorted out of the building 20 minutes later. The post the infiltrator, the borrowed research, and other people who were much too honest in job interviews appeared first on Ask a Manager. View the full article

The search index is evolving from ranking pages to supporting AI-generated answers. In a technical blog post “on the evolving technical characteristics of the index,” published today, Microsoft Bing explained why AI search needs a different indexing system than traditional web search. Traditional search vs. grounding systems. Microsoft said traditional search can rely on users to self-correct, while AI systems need stronger evidence because they generate committed answers. Traditional search is built around documents. Users get ranked links, scan the results, and decide what to trust. Grounding systems are built around supportable facts with clear sourcing. The AI uses that information to generate a combined answer, where mistakes can compound across sources and reasoning steps. They shared this table: What’s different. Traditional ranking is optimized for relevance. Grounding must also assess whether information is accurate, up to date, clearly sourced, and sufficient to support an answer. That means AI indexes need to account for whether: A page’s meaning survives chunking and transformation. The source is clearly identified. The information is fresh enough to use. Important facts are actually retrievable and groundable. Grounding systems need to detect disagreements between sources before generating an answer. Stale content. Stale content creates a different risk in AI answers, Microsoft said. In traditional search, it may hurt ranking quality. In grounding systems, it can directly generate a wrong answer. Contradictions. A search engine can rank one source above another and let users decide. Grounding systems must recognize conflicting evidence before turning it into a single answer, according to Microsoft. Retrieval is more complex. Search is usually a single interaction: query in, ranked results out. Microsoft said grounded AI systems may retrieve information repeatedly, refine based on earlier results, combine evidence, and reassess confidence before answering. How indexing quality is measured. Search quality has traditionally focused on ranking performance and user behavior. Grounding systems also need to measure factual fidelity, source quality, freshness, evidence strength, and conflict detection. The industry is still learning how to rigorously measure grounding quality, Microsoft said. Grounding doesn’t replace search. Grounding builds on existing search infrastructure while adding systems focused on evidence quality, attribution, and deciding when an AI system should avoid answering, Microsoft said. Why we care. For decades, search indexes helped determine which pages users should visit. Today, AI grounding determines which information supports an AI-generated answer. Microsoft described grounding as a new layer on top of traditional search, built for AI systems that need higher confidence in the information they use. That shift could push brands and publishers to focus more on creating information AI systems can confidently use. The blog post. Evolving role of the index: From ranking pages to supporting answers View the full article

Hormuz closure prompts surge in buying from Asia and EuropeView the full article

We may earn a commission from links on this page. Deal pricing and availability subject to change after time of publication. While other workout earbuds have launched since the Beats Fit Pro first came out in 2021, they’re still among the strongest ANC earbuds for fitness fanatics and anyone who wants to block out noise in their everyday listening. They’re especially adept at keeping up with workouts for folks who struggle to find earbuds that stay put, and are also a smart choice for Apple users seeking features similar to AirPods. Right now, the Beats Fit Pro in coral are available for just $119.99 (originally $199.95), marking their lowest price ever and a 40% discount off the list price. Beats Fit Pro Earbuds $119.99 at Woot $199.95 Save $79.96 Get Deal Get Deal $119.99 at Woot $199.95 Save $79.96 If you want AirPods features like easy pairing, Spatial Audio, Find My support, Hands-free Siri, and seamless device switching but are looking for a sportier and more secure design, the Beats Fit Pro is a smart alternative. They use Apple’s H1 chip, enabling all of the above, and have what PCMag calls “powerful audio with robust bass and bright highs” and “solid noise cancellation,” which becomes even more impressive at an under-$125 price point. The built-in earfins make for a more secure fit, and the earbuds have on-ear control buttons that are easy to navigate with single and double taps. Keep in mind that they only come with an IPX4 rating, compared to some fitness earbuds with an IPX7 rating that make them fully waterproof, but they’re still water-resistant enough to handle some moisture. They also lack adjustable EQ, and unlike the AirPods Pro, they don't support wireless charging. Battery life is around 6 to 7 hours, and the charging case provides an additional 21 to 23 hours, but results vary depending on the mode and volume levels. Compared to more premium earbuds, the ANC is above average, performing well against low-frequency noise. That makes the true wireless Beats Fit Pro earbuds a popular option for bass lovers looking to block out background noise, enjoy a secure fit, and get many of the same features as the AirPods Pro, with a couple of added perks, all made even more attractive at an $80 discount. Our Best Editor-Vetted Tech Deals Right Now Apple AirPods Pro 3 Noise Cancelling Heart Rate Wireless Earbuds — $199.99 (List Price $249.00) Apple Watch Series 11 [GPS 46mm] Smartwatch with Jet Black Aluminum Case with Black Sport Band - M/L. Sleep Score, Fitness Tracker, Health Monitoring, Always-On Display, Water Resistant — $329.00 (List Price $429.00) Fitbit Versa 4 Fitness Smartwatch (Black) — $149.95 (List Price $199.95) Apple iPad 11" A16 128GB Wi-Fi Tablet (Silver, 2025) — $299.00 (List Price $349.00) Anker 20,000mAh Portable Power Bank With Built-in USB-C Cable — $49.99 (List Price $69.99) Deals are selected by our commerce team View the full article

Ted Turner, a brash television pioneer who raced yachts, owned huge chunks of the American West and transformed the news business by launching CNN and introducing the 24-hour cable news cycle, died Wednesday. He was 87. Turner died surrounded by his family, according to Turner Enterprises, the company that oversees his vast business interests. Turner owned professional sports teams in Atlanta, defended the America’s Cup in yachting in 1977 and donated a stunning $1 billion to United Nations charities. He married three women — most famously actor Jane Fonda — and earned the nicknames “Captain Outrageous” and “The Mouth of the South.” He once bragged: “If only I had a little humility, I’d be perfect.” He was slowed in later years by Lewy body dementia. Long out of the television business, he concentrated on philanthropy. His garrulous personality sometimes overshadowed a risk-taking business acumen. By the time he sold his Turner Broadcasting System to Time Warner Inc. in 1996, Turner had turned his late father’s billboard company into a global conglomerate that included seven major cable networks, three professional sports teams and a pair of hit movie studios. President Donald The President, reacting to Turner’s death, called him “one of the Greats of All Time.” The creation of CNN Turner’s signature achievement was creating the Cable News Network, the first 24-hour, all-news television network in 1980. In part, Turner’s own frustration with television news was the instigator. He often worked past 8 p.m., after the ABC, CBS and NBC nightly newscasts had already gone off the air. He took a chance by starting the operation in the early days of cable television, living in an apartment above its Atlanta office. CNN’s breakthrough moment came during the Gulf War with Iraq in 1991. Most television journalists had fled Baghdad but CNN stayed, capturing arresting images of a war’s outbreak. Turner was promised a continued role in CNN after his company’s sale to Time Warner but was gradually pushed out, much to his regret. “The mistake I made was losing control of the company,” he later said. Building TBS SuperStation Robert Edward Turner III was born Nov. 19, 1938, in Cincinnati. When he was 9, his family moved to Savannah, Georgia, where he grew up. After being expelled from Brown University, Turner came to Atlanta to work for his domineering father’s billboard company, Turner Advertising. After his father’s 1963 suicide, Turner took over the company. In 1970, he bought an independent UHF station with a weak signal that didn’t even cover Atlanta. On Dec. 17, 1976, he began transmitting the station to cable systems across the country via satellite. It became the TBS SuperStation. TBS’ motley collection of old movies and sitcom reruns was augmented by Turner’s acquisition of baseball’s Atlanta Braves. Perennial doormats, the Braves slowly attracted fans nationwide through their superstation exposure. In the 1980s, Turner went deeply into debt to buy MGM, a move again greeted with skepticism. But the acquisition gave his company a library of vintage movies that eventually were parlayed into the TNT and Turner Classic Movies networks. He revealed his ambitions as a younger man: “I used to tell people I wanted to become the world’s greatest sailor, businessman and lover all at the same time.” Acquiring sports teams and land For much of his life, a partying roustabout who wooed beautiful women, the lean, mustachioed sportsman married three times. He was married to Fonda from 1991 to 2001. She tired of his philandering and divorced him, although they remained friends. Perhaps Turner’s greatest love was for the land. He acquired millions of acres in ranches complete with roaming buffalo and was Nebraska’s largest private landholder. Researchers at Texas A&M University credited his donation of a few bulls in 2005 with helping increase the genetic diversity of the last herd of southern Plains bison. He had a net worth of $2.5 billion in 2023 but had dropped off Forbes magazine’s ranking of the 400 richest Americans in 2021. “See, my life is more an adventure than a quest to make money,” Turner once said. Turner managed to insult many with his shoot-from-the-lip style. An atheist since his only sister died of lupus at age 17, he called Christians “losers” and “Jesus freaks,” later apologizing for both remarks. Dedication to various causes Turner, the father of five children, grabbed a leadership role in American philanthropy with his Sept. 18, 1997, pledge to give $1 billion to United Nations charities. He promoted a range of humanitarian causes. Turner joined former U.S. Sen. Sam Nunn to start the Nuclear Threat Initiative, a U.S.-based nonprofit dedicated to reducing the threat of nuclear, biological and chemical weapons. As he poured millions into nonprofits on a global scale, Turner was also fond of spreading his wealth in small ways. He once gave $500 to a volunteer fire department that helped extinguish a blaze on one of his ranches. —David Bauder, AP Media Writer Former Associated Press correspondent Ryan Nakashima contributed to this report. View the full article

The company turned a GAAP profit of $170.4 million for the quarter, with its volume and margins relatively flat compared with the fourth quarter of 2025. View the full article

Small business owners have an exciting opportunity to enhance their skills and capabilities with the return of Google’s 5-Day AI Agents Intensive Course in partnership with Kaggle, set to take place from June 15-19, 2026. Following the success of its inaugural launch—which attracted over 1.5 million learners—this redesigned course promises updated content, diverse speakers, and a hands-on capstone project, all free of charge. Many businesses are beginning to recognize the potential of artificial intelligence in streamlining operations, improving customer interactions, and driving innovation. The theme of this year’s course revolves around “vibe coding,” a method that utilizes natural language as the primary interface for programming. This approach could significantly lower the entry barrier for small business owners who may not have extensive coding backgrounds but are eager to leverage AI technology. The course is structured to help participants understand and build AI agents, starting from foundational concepts and progressing to production-ready systems. By focusing on practical applications, small business owners can expect to explore workflows that harness language-driven commands to create powerful AI tools. Key Benefits: Hands-on Learning: The structure of the course encourages active participation, allowing attendees to engage with practical examples each day. By the end of the five days, participants will not only have theoretical knowledge but also hands-on experience in designing and deploying AI systems tailored to their business needs. Creating “10x Agents”: One unique focal point of the course is the integration of various tools and APIs, enabling the creation of what participants refer to as “10x agents.” For small businesses, these agents can automate customer service, manage schedules, and even analyze market trends, drastically enhancing efficiency and productivity. Capstone Project: Perhaps one of the most enticing aspects is the capstone project that participants will complete, offering a chance to implement their learned concepts to address real-world challenges in their business. This project could serve as a foundation for innovative solutions that small business owners may carry forward. As small business owners consider enrolling, it is essential to weigh potential challenges alongside these benefits. The rapid evolution of AI technology often leaves users needing to keep up, which can be daunting. The five-day format, while intensive, may also present a time commitment that some busy entrepreneurs might find challenging. Moreover, integrating new tools requires an investment in both time and resources as businesses adapt to new systems. Several small business owners might also wonder about the complexity of employing AI agents and whether their current infrastructure can support such innovations. It’s wise to take stock of existing technology and staff skill levels before diving into advanced AI applications. However, the rewards could outweigh these challenges. Adopting AI could lead to significant improvements in customer engagement and operational efficiency, critical components for growing a successful small business in a competitive market. To register for the course and embark on an informative journey toward AI proficiency, interested business owners can visit the official Kaggle course page. As the fields of technology and commerce converge, learning how to leverage cutting-edge tools like AI will only become more vital for small businesses striving for excellence and innovation. Image via Google Gemini This article, "Google Revives Free AI Agents Course with Hands-On Learning Experience" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Small business owners have an exciting opportunity to enhance their skills and capabilities with the return of Google’s 5-Day AI Agents Intensive Course in partnership with Kaggle, set to take place from June 15-19, 2026. Following the success of its inaugural launch—which attracted over 1.5 million learners—this redesigned course promises updated content, diverse speakers, and a hands-on capstone project, all free of charge. Many businesses are beginning to recognize the potential of artificial intelligence in streamlining operations, improving customer interactions, and driving innovation. The theme of this year’s course revolves around “vibe coding,” a method that utilizes natural language as the primary interface for programming. This approach could significantly lower the entry barrier for small business owners who may not have extensive coding backgrounds but are eager to leverage AI technology. The course is structured to help participants understand and build AI agents, starting from foundational concepts and progressing to production-ready systems. By focusing on practical applications, small business owners can expect to explore workflows that harness language-driven commands to create powerful AI tools. Key Benefits: Hands-on Learning: The structure of the course encourages active participation, allowing attendees to engage with practical examples each day. By the end of the five days, participants will not only have theoretical knowledge but also hands-on experience in designing and deploying AI systems tailored to their business needs. Creating “10x Agents”: One unique focal point of the course is the integration of various tools and APIs, enabling the creation of what participants refer to as “10x agents.” For small businesses, these agents can automate customer service, manage schedules, and even analyze market trends, drastically enhancing efficiency and productivity. Capstone Project: Perhaps one of the most enticing aspects is the capstone project that participants will complete, offering a chance to implement their learned concepts to address real-world challenges in their business. This project could serve as a foundation for innovative solutions that small business owners may carry forward. As small business owners consider enrolling, it is essential to weigh potential challenges alongside these benefits. The rapid evolution of AI technology often leaves users needing to keep up, which can be daunting. The five-day format, while intensive, may also present a time commitment that some busy entrepreneurs might find challenging. Moreover, integrating new tools requires an investment in both time and resources as businesses adapt to new systems. Several small business owners might also wonder about the complexity of employing AI agents and whether their current infrastructure can support such innovations. It’s wise to take stock of existing technology and staff skill levels before diving into advanced AI applications. However, the rewards could outweigh these challenges. Adopting AI could lead to significant improvements in customer engagement and operational efficiency, critical components for growing a successful small business in a competitive market. To register for the course and embark on an informative journey toward AI proficiency, interested business owners can visit the official Kaggle course page. As the fields of technology and commerce converge, learning how to leverage cutting-edge tools like AI will only become more vital for small businesses striving for excellence and innovation. Image via Google Gemini This article, "Google Revives Free AI Agents Course with Hands-On Learning Experience" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Last month, New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani celebrated Tax Day by making good on a campaign promise. “When I ran for mayor, I said I was going to tax the rich,” Mamdani said in a viral video posted to social media. “Today, we’re taxing the rich.” Mamdani went on to describe New York’s proposed pied-á-terre tax, a collaboration with Gov. Kathy Hochul. The tax specifically targets the owners of residential properties in New York City worth more than $5 million that they don’t live in full time, or “the richest of the rich,” as Mamdani called them in his video. One such property that would be subject to the new tax belongs to billionaire Citadel CEO Kenneth Griffin. In 2019, Griffin bought a Manhattan penthouse for $239 million, the most expensive residential sale in U.S. history, though the unit doesn’t serve as Griffin’s primary residence. To make his point, Mamdani used Griffin’s penthouse as the backdrop for his video, a callout that earned him kudos across social media. But one person wasn’t happy with Mamdani’s choice of setting: Griffin himself, who responded to Mamdani’s video in a new interview. Beyond saying that Mamdani filming outside his home was in “really poor taste,” Griffin said the mayor’s new tax exemplifies everything wrong with New York City—and that as far as Griffin is concerned, his home city of Miami is poised to usurp it as the business capital of America. Making Miami the new NYC In his interview with CNBC, Griffin said Mamdani’s pied-á-terre tax is likely to drive America’s business leaders away from New York City. “The tax itself is a tax that discriminates against a narrow group of people,” he said. The tax has led Griffin to question his hedge fund Citadel’s planned $6 billion investment in New York City, a proposed supertall office tower at 350 Park Avenue. “Are they going to now have a special tax rate for those that own office buildings who live out of state?” Griffin asked. “Where does this stop in New York?” Though Griffin said Citadel is still likely to go through with the investment, he added that Mamdani’s video encouraged him to reinvest in other ventures, including his company’s Miami headquarters. “We’ve added several hundred thousand square feet of new space in our new building,” Griffin said. “We will add far more jobs in Miami over the next decade as an immediate and direct consequence of the mayor’s poor decision here, with respect to his posting of that video.” Florida is an especially attractive state for high earners, given the state’s lack of an income tax. In contrast, just 1% of New York’s registered filers were responsible for 40% of the state’s income tax as of 2022, a stat that Griffin says puts New York City in “a precarious position if they make those who create value feel like they’re best off moving their businesses and their lives to other jurisdictions.” “The progressive left goes, ‘Good riddance,’” he added. “But who’s going to pay the bills?” Griffin comes for Mamdani and Hochul Beyond his financial objections to New York’s new tax, Griffin took personal issue with Mamdani’s choice to feature his penthouse in that viral video, which has garnered more than 52 million views on social media. “What really upset me about the video was the fact that he put me in harm’s way,” Griffin said. “You know, he seems to have forgotten that the CEO of another American company was assassinated just blocks where I live in New York,” he continued, likely referring to the 2024 shooting of United Healthcare CEO Brian Thompson. “And to put any citizen in harm’s way is just inappropriate for one of our political leaders.” “I have no longstanding fights or issues or dynamics between Mamdani and me,” he continued. “To turn me into a political puppet was just in poor taste, really poor taste.” Since the video’s release, Griffin has also met with Gov. Hochul to discuss the tax. After initially declining to comment on that meeting, Griffin eventually said he was disappointed by comments from the governor’s office that “Mamdani scored political points” with his video. “Wow, that’s real leadership, Governor Hochul,” Griffin said. “I’m being as sarcastic as I could be here.” View the full article

We may earn a commission from links on this page. I love a creepy little town full of secrets and dark deeds, whether it's Twin Peaks, Hawkins (of Stranger Things fame), or Jessica Fletcher's Cabot Cove, the Maine fishing village from Murder, She Wrote with the alarmingly high death rate. The latest addition to this atlas of regrettable vacation destinations is Widow's Bay, the insular New England island that is the setting for the new Apple TV series of the same name. The town seems idyllic on the surface, but according to some of the locals, it appears to be "waking up," in a supernatural way. This is bad timing for the mayor, Tom Loftis, a relative newcomer who's hoping to build the place into a quaint tourist destination. A few episodes in, the show is frequently legitimately funny, but also plausibly scary (think clowns in crawlspaces)—and if you're looking to visit other terrifying locales between episodes, here are 15 spooky suggestions. Stream Widow's Bay on Apple TV. Shining Vale (2022 – 2023) Shining Vale opens by advising us that women are twice as likely as men to suffer from depression—but also twice as likely to be possessed by a demon. And the symptoms are the same. Courteney Cox's Pat Phelps isn't really sure which problem she's experiencing when her wildly dysfunctional family moves to a big ol' Victorian mansion in a tiny Connecticut town, hoping that getting out of the big city will solve all their problems. As you might suspect, it doesn't, and adds a whole lot more in the form of supernatural forces related to dark things that have happened in the house. Shining Vale deals frankly with issues of women and mental illness but, like Widow's Bay, also comes at its ghostly threats with a sense of humor. Stream Shining Vale on HBO Max. Shining Vale (2022 – 2023) at HBO Max Learn More Learn More at HBO Max The 'Burbs (2026 – ) Nothing much overtly supernatural here, but the show's premise is that the suburbs are so insular and creepy, particularly if you're not a local, which feels close enough. This fun and very loose adaptation of the 1989 Tom Hanks film finds Keke Palmer's Samira and Jack Whitehall's Rob moving back to his impossibly safe and tidy hometown. Their house happens to be across the street from a dilapidated Victorian eyesore that may or may not have been the location of a murder a couple of decades before. As Samira adjusts to new motherhood as well as life on the cul-de-sac, she learns that even the nicest of her neighbors (played by Julia Duffy, Paula Pell, Mark Proksch, and Kapil Talwalkar) have secrets, and comes to suspect that her husband knows more about the dead girl than he's letting on. Stream The 'Burbs on Peacock. The 'Burbs (2026 – ) at Peacock Learn More Learn More at Peacock The Third Day (2020) This weird and ambitious slice of folk horror finds Jude Law's Sam arriving on Osea Island while grieving his murdered son and trying to save his failing business. After he intervenes when he sees a young woman attempting to hang herself, Sam get caught up in some wildly atmospheric creepiness around the town. Later, Naomie Harris' Helen arrives on the island with her daughters only to discover that everything's gone to hell, and that the causeway that connects the island to the mainland is gone. In between the two halves of the miniseries, the creators produced an immersive, 12-hour-long, single-camera livestream capturing a day in the life of the island, and it's a wild bit of innovation. Admittedly, it's all a bit more vibes than plot, but the vibes are genuinely disturbing. Stream The Third Day on HBO Max. The Third Day (2020) at HBO Max Learn More Learn More at HBO Max Obituary (2023 – ) Heading to rural Ireland, we meet Elvira Clancy (Siobhán Cullen), a freelance obituarist and erstwhile goth girl with money problems. There's decent money in the job, but there are only so many deaths in the tiny (fictional) town of Killraven—but she happens on a way to up the death count after she kinda accidentally pushes a jerk off a cliff. This is as dark as dark comedies get, as Elvira comes off less like a serial killer and more like a grown-up Wednesday Addams. Stream Obituary on Hulu. Obituary (2023 – ) at Hulu Learn More Learn More at Hulu Haven (2010 – 2015) Occasionally light but not obviously comedic, Haven (based on the Stephen King short story "The Colorado Kid") nevertheless has the "weird stuff goes down in a remote town" part down pat. Emily Rose stars as Audrey Parker, an FBI Special Agent sent to the titular Maine town on a routine case. Soon she is drawn into “the Troubles," a series of harmful supernatural events that have recurred throughout the town’s history—and, by no coincidence, are happening again. The supernatural-case-of-the-week format gives way to a bigger mystery when Audrey comes to learn that this isn’t her first time in Haven, nor the first time she’s encountered the Troubles. Stream Haven on Peacock and Prime Video. Haven (2010 – 2015) at Peacock Learn More Learn More at Peacock Twin Peaks (1990 – 1991, 2017) Widow's Bay has its work cut out for it if it's going to compete with the town (and the oddball locals) at the center of this groundbreaking bit of weirdness from David Lynch and Mark Frost, in which teens and adults in the deceptively quiet Twin Peaks face tragedy accompanied by supernatural threats from outside of our normal space and time. I think? The mysteries here aren't really meant to be solved as much as pondered with an eye toward nebulous existential dread (and if that's not your idea of fun, I'm not sure what you're doing here). Kyle MacLachlan plays FBI Special Agent Dale Cooper, who arrives in town to investigate the murder of teenage homecoming queen Laura Palmer (Sheryl Lee), and uncovers secrets and mysteries among the town's delightfully (often disturbingly) weird residents. Stream Twin Peaks on Paramount+. Twin Peaks (1990 – 1991, 2017) at Paramount+ Learn More Learn More at Paramount+ It: Welcome to Derry (2025 – ) Stephen King's best trick is situating his horror in seemingly idyllic small towns. Set in the 1960s, this It prequel dives into the backstory of Derry and Pennywise the clown through the eyes of children who met him during his previous visit to the town. By the end of the first episode, it's clear that even the most adorable children aren't safe, and this is a show that will, if nothing else, go hard. Tonally, it's far from a match for Widow's Bay—but given that Bay has already introduced a scary ghost clown from the '60s as one of its supernatural scares, there's some overlap, if you're a particular kind of freak. Stream It: Welcome to Derry on HBO Max. It: Welcome to Derry (2025 – ) at HBO Max Learn More Learn More at HBO Max True Detective: Night Country (2024) A complete tonal mismatch here, in that Night Country takes itself way more seriously than Widow's Bay. Nonetheless, this most recent True Detective season is one of the better creepy-stuff-in-an-isolated location narratives of recent years, moving away from the sweaty bro energy of earlier seasons in favor of a frostier mystery involving missing scientists at a research station near a tiny and necessarily remote Alaskan town, where the dark and the cold are practically characters themselves. The resulting case ties together veteran Chief Liz Danvers (Jodie Foster) and Trooper Evangeline Navarro (Kali Reis), two women with complicated pasts and screwed-up present family lives. Stream True Detective: Night Country on HBO Max. True Detective: Night Country (2024) at HBO Max Learn More Learn More at HBO Max Gravity Falls (2012 – 2016) This much-loved animated series follows twin siblings Mabel and Dipper Pines (Kristen Schaal and Jason Ritter) sent to spend the summer with their great-uncle (aka "Grunkle") Stan (voiced by show creator Alex Hirsch). While helping Stan run his mystery-themed tourist shack, the kids happen across a series of supernatural mysteries, many related to the show's ultimate antagonist, a dream demon known as Bill Cipher. The series recently came to a planned conclusion (albeit after four years rather than ten), and its finale was a ratings blockbuster—the highest-rated telecast in the history of Disney XD, as a matter of fact. Stream Gravity Falls on Disney+. Gravity Falls (2012 – 2016) at Disney+ Learn More Learn More at Disney+ Bodkin (2024) Bodkin takes us to the title's quirky Irish coastal town for a dark comedy thriller that parodies true crime dramas in much the same way Widow's Bay takes the piss out of supernatural narratives. Will Forte plays Gilbert Power, an American podcaster investigating the cold case of three people who went missing during a Samhain celebration three decades prior. It's definitely a satire of the genre, but the show has a pretty engaging mystery at its heart nonetheless. Stream Bodkin on Netflix. Bodkin (2024) at Netflix Learn More Learn More at Netflix Deadloch (2023 – ) Both a twisty crime procedural and a brilliant satire of the genre, this Australian import follows Dulcie Collins (Kate Box), the fastidious senior sergeant of the police force in the fictional town of Deadloch. When a body turns up on the beach, Dulcie is joined by Madeleine Sami's Eddie Redcliffe, a crud, generally obnoxious detective brought in to help solve the case. Their unraveling of the web of secrets in the tiny Tasmanian town is addictive, and as a bonus, its cop thriller tropes are mercilessly mocked throughout. Stream Deadloch on Prime Video. Deadloch (2023 – ) at Prime Video Learn More Learn More at Prime Video Stan Against Evil (2016 – 2018) Drawing inspiration from Evil Dead, Stan Against Evil stars John C. McGinley as the crotchety, obnoxious former sheriff of the tiny New Hampshire town of Willard's Mill, which is lurking with vengeful spirits. Janet Varney comes to town as his replacement, and the two soon realize that the demons aren’t going to keep quiet for much longer. The awkward chemistry between the leads is a big selling point, as are the old-school practical monster effects. Stream Stan Against Evil on AMC+ and Shudder. Stan Against Evil (2016 – 2018) at AMC+ Learn More Learn More at AMC+ From (2022 – ) Like the residents of Widow's Bay, the characters in From are literally trapped. But at least the locality in that Apple show gets a name; From's setting is just known as the Town, and, once you set foot there, you can never leave. Oh, and did I mention that creatures come from the woods and kill anyone found outside after dark? Doesn't sound quite as bad as the town where I grew up, but nevertheless: concerning. Stream From on MGM+. From (2022 – ) at MGM+ Learn More Learn More at MGM+ Midnight Mass (2021) If it's not the best of Mike Flanagan's Netflix work, it's certainly the most emotionally devastating. Riley Flynn (Zach Gilford) returns to the tiny, isolated community of Crockett Island, his arrival coinciding with that of Catholic priest Father Paul Hill (Hamish Linklater). Riley is wrestling with his justifiable guilt over a drunk-driving death for which he was responsible, while the charismatic priest is reviving the town's once-flagging religious fervor while exacerbating local tensions. The brewing conflict, exploring the limits of both faith and guilt, is fascinating, and the inseparably horrific elements are terrifying. Stream Midnight Mass on Netflix. Midnight Mass (2021) at Netflix Learn More Learn More at Netflix And Then There Were None (2015) The set-up will seem familiar, but only because this stark, brutal miniseries goes back to the Agatha Christie source material that gives it its name: Eight strangers arrive on the fictional, thoroughly isolated Soldier Island, off the Devon coast. They've been brought together under various pretexts, and, at a tense dinner, are presented with a gramophone recording explaining that each of them has been responsible for a death, and that each will face justice in turn. Stream And Then There Were None on Acorn TV. And Then There Were None (2015) at Acorn TV Learn More Learn More at Acorn TV View the full article

AI start-up is racing to add computing power to keep up with its growthView the full article

A marketer opens ChatGPT, types a prompt, and gets a (probably pretty bad) blog post draft back in 30 seconds. That’s generative AI. Their colleague opens Agent-A, gives it a target keyword, and walks away. Twenty minutes later, they have…Read more ›View the full article

We may earn a commission from links on this page. Deal pricing and availability subject to change after time of publication. The Dyson V11 Outsize Origin+ is currently on sale for $359.99 on StackSocial (originally $659.99). This V11 version is noticeably larger than most stick vacuums, with a High Torque XL cleaner head that is roughly 25% wider than the standard version so that each pass covers more floor. In a small apartment, you might not think much about that difference, but in bigger living rooms or long hallways, it adds up—instead of going back and forth repeatedly, you get through the same space much faster. Dyson also designed the vacuum to adapt as you move through the house. The company’s Dynamic Load Sensor system automatically increases suction on carpets and reduces it on hard floors, so you can go from tile to a rug without stopping to adjust settings. Inside, the V11 Outsize runs on a 350-watt motor, which gives it stronger suction than earlier Dyson cordless models. The dust bin is larger too, holding about 0.5 gallons of debris. If you have pets or a household where crumbs and dirt build up quickly, that extra capacity means you’re less likely to pause mid-clean just to empty the bin. As for its battery life, it can last up to an hour, depending on the power mode you use, which is generally enough to handle most homes in a single session. Like most Dyson stick vacuums, it also converts into a handheld unit for tasks like vacuuming stairs, car interiors, or upholstery. That said, at around 7.85 pounds, the V11 Outsize does feel heavier than slimmer cordless vacuums. Also, since this is sold as a Grade-A refurbished model, the warranty is a 90-day third-party coverage rather than Dyson’s full manufacturer warranty, which is worth keeping in mind. For homes with pets, larger floor plans, or frequent messes, though, the extra size and power can make this V11 version a more practical choice than smaller cordless options. Our Best Editor-Vetted Tech Deals Right Now Apple AirPods Pro 3 Noise Cancelling Heart Rate Wireless Earbuds — $199.99 (List Price $249.00) Apple Watch Series 11 [GPS 46mm] Smartwatch with Jet Black Aluminum Case with Black Sport Band - M/L. Sleep Score, Fitness Tracker, Health Monitoring, Always-On Display, Water Resistant — $329.00 (List Price $429.00) Fitbit Versa 4 Fitness Smartwatch (Black) — $149.95 (List Price $199.95) Apple iPad 11" A16 128GB Wi-Fi Tablet (Silver, 2025) — $299.00 (List Price $349.00) Anker 20,000mAh Portable Power Bank With Built-in USB-C Cable — $49.99 (List Price $69.99) Deals are selected by our commerce team View the full article