The post Logitech Clears Out G29 Driving Force Racing Wheel and Floor Pedals at Its Cheapest Price, Perfect for PlayStation and PC Gaming appeared first on Kotaku.
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Tuesday, 3 February 2026
Logitech Clears Out G29 Driving Force Racing Wheel and Floor Pedals at Its Cheapest Price, Perfect for PlayStation and PC Gaming
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X's Paris HQ raided by French prosecutors
Paris prosecutors announced that a search was underway at offices belong to Elon Musk’s X platform as part of an ongoing investigation first launched in January 2025. The raid is being conducted by Paris and national cybercrime units, with support from Interpol, according to post from Paris prosecutors on X. Officials from X have yet to comment on the matter.
At the same time, Paris prosecutors issued summonses to Elon Musk and Linda Yaccarino for “voluntary interviews” on April 20, 2026 in Paris. The prosecutors also announced they would no longer use X and would only communicate on LinkedIn and Instagram going forward.
The searches are part of an investigation that has been ongoing for nearly a year over the functioning of X’s algorithms that are “likely to have distorted the operation of an automated data processing system,” investigators said at the time. Those changes reportedly gave greater prominence to certain political content (especially from Musk) without user knowledge — something that could be a crime under French laws.
An investigation was officially launched in July, with Paris prosecutors adding an additional charge: “Fraudulent extraction of data from an automated data processing system by an organized group.” More recently, it also includes “complicity in the possession of images of minors representing a pedo-pornographic character,” due to images created by Grok between December 25, 2025 and January 1, 2026.
In July, X said in a statement that the probe “egregiously undermines X’s fundamental right to due process and threatens our users' rights to privacy and free speech. [French officials have] accused X of manipulating its algorithm for 'foreign interference' purposes, an allegation which is completely false.”
This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://ift.tt/Pnd3kVsfrom Engadget is a web magazine with obsessive daily coverage of everything new in gadgets and consumer electronics https://ift.tt/Pnd3kVs
Monday, 2 February 2026
New PlayStation Rewards Program Speculated After Store Listing
PS5, PS4 players are speculating that a new PlayStation Rewards program is in the works after a mysterious PS Store listing appeared over the weekend. Published by Sony Interactive Entertainment, the listing is for an app called Wallet Credits, and we can confirm that it only recently appeared on multiple regions’ storefronts.
New PS Store listing might not have anything to do with PlayStation Rewards program
The PS Store listing in question has no information other than the publisher’s name. Interestingly, players can “wishlist” whatever Wallet Credits is. The app is currently in “announced” state with a release date “to be determined.”
There are all sorts of speculations about Wallet Credits. Some users have theorized that the listing is related to PS Store credit that Sony gifted select users late last year. Some think that it may be a way to purchase PSN credit directly from the company. Others think that a replacement for the doomed PS Stars is on the way.
While I don’t think Sony needs to roll out a separate app for purchasing PSN credit, since there are already several ways to top up wallet funds directly via the PS Store, I don’t think this app has anything to do with a rewards program either.
My wishful thinking is that Sony is planning to roll out a PS Store gifting system, which players have been begging for.
What do our readers think Wallet Credits is?
The post New PlayStation Rewards Program Speculated After Store Listing appeared first on PlayStation LifeStyle.
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TikTok says it's 'back to normal' after winter storm-related outages
TikTok is finally "back to normal" in the US after days of technical issues and outages tied to winter storms. Less than a week after companies like Oracle took ownership of TikTok's domestic operations, the platform faced a major power outage when one of its primary US data center sites — run by Oracle — got taken down by the storm.
The problems started last Monday, January 26, when TikTok announced it was working on a "major infrastructure issue" and warned of bugs, time-out requests, missing earnings, and more. The next day TikTok shared that progress has been made but there were still some issues. It added, "Creators may temporarily see '0' views or likes on videos, and your earnings may look like they're missing. This is a display error caused by server timeouts; your actual data and engagement are safe."
Then, yesterday, February 1, TikTok claimed the problem was straightened out and that users shouldn't experience any more related issues. "We're sorry about the issues experienced by our U.S. community. We appreciate how much you count on TikTok to create, discover, and connect with what matters to you," the platform stated in its update. "Thank you for your patience and understanding."
A number of US users have uninstalled TikTok in response to its new ownership and technical issues. Some users also claimed that TikTok was censoring what they could post or what others saw. For instance, The Guardian reports that many people faced issues sharing videos about ICE agents killing Alex Pretti and general anti-ICE content.
On January 26, analytics firm Sensor Tower told CNBC that uninstalls of the app had increased by over 150 percent during the five days since its change in ownership, when compared to the three months before. At the same time, independent app and competitor UpScrolled saw a surge in downloads.
This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://ift.tt/1PKhBpkfrom Engadget is a web magazine with obsessive daily coverage of everything new in gadgets and consumer electronics https://ift.tt/1PKhBpk
PS5 Pro Support Confirmed for Highly Anticipated Adventure Game
PS5 Pro support has been confirmed for a promising upcoming action adventure game that’s due out in March 2026. Developer Pearl Abyss has said that Crimson Desert will feature dedicated PS5 Pro enhancements, which is great news after a spate of high-profile releases came without support.
Crimson Desert PS5 Pro enhancements will be detailed in due course
In a recent interview with YouTuber Destin, Pearl Abyss director Will Powers said that Crimson Desert is currently being optimized, and when it comes to game performance, there will understandably be some differences between consoles and PC. However, there will be PS5 Pro enhancements, which will be detailed ahead of launch alongside more information on graphics and performance on both consoles and PC.
Crimson Desert will release on March 19, 2026. It was originally meant to be a prequel to Black Desert, but it is now a stand-alone single-player game.
“Crimson Desert is an open-world action-adventure game set in the beautiful yet brutal continent of Pywel,” reads an official overview. “Take on the role of the Greymane Kliff and embark on a journey across the continent to reclaim everything you’ve lost. Explore uncharted lands, encounter mysterious factions, and experience firsthand a world that is as breathtaking as it is merciless.”
Crimson Desert is open for preorders now on the PS Store, with PS5 exclusive bonuses on offer.
The post PS5 Pro Support Confirmed for Highly Anticipated Adventure Game appeared first on PlayStation LifeStyle.
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Sunday, 1 February 2026
How to replace your AirTag battery
Apple’s AirTag is designed to run quietly in the background, helping you keep track of everyday items like keys, bags and luggage. Unlike many small trackers, an AirTag doesn’t need to be charged. Instead, it uses a standard replaceable coin cell battery that typically lasts around a year, depending on usage.
When the battery runs low, your iPhone will alert you. Replacing it is a simple process that takes just a few minutes and doesn’t require any tools. This guide explains how to tell when your AirTag battery needs replacing, which battery to use and how to swap it safely.
How to replace the battery in your AirTag
Replacing the battery only takes a few steps.
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Hold the AirTag with the polished stainless steel side facing up.
-
Press down firmly on the metal battery cover and rotate it counterclockwise. Continue turning until the cover stops moving.
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Lift off the cover and remove the old battery.
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Insert a new CR2032 battery with the positive (+) side facing up. Once the battery is seated correctly, the AirTag will emit a brief chime, confirming that power has been restored.
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Place the battery cover back onto the AirTag. Align the three small tabs on the cover with the matching slots on the AirTag body.
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Press down gently and rotate the cover clockwise until it stops. The cover should sit flush with the AirTag and feel secure once locked into place.
No pairing or setup steps are required after replacing the battery. Your AirTag will automatically reconnect to your Apple ID.
When to replace your AirTag battery
Your iPhone will automatically notify you when an AirTag battery is running low. The alert appears as a notification and doesn’t interrupt tracking, but it’s a good idea to replace the battery quickly to avoid losing location updates.
If you’re unsure whether your AirTag battery needs replacing, open the Find My app, tap the Items tab and select your AirTag. If a message appears under the AirTag name stating “Low Battery”, you’ll know it needs replacing. If no message appears, it’s safe to assume the battery level is fine for now. AirTags don’t have a screen or any other battery indicator, but Apple does show a battery percentage for AirTags in the FindMy app. The low battery warning is the only signal Apple provides before replacement becomes necessary.
What to do if your AirTag doesn’t make a sound
If you don’t hear a sound after inserting the new battery, remove it and check that it’s oriented correctly with the positive side facing up. You should also secure the back cover onto the AirTag as well, to see if the chime sounds after that.
If the battery is oriented properly and still doesn’t trigger a sound, try a different CR2032 battery. AirTag uses a CR2032 lithium 3V coin battery, a common type available at most electronics stores, supermarkets and pharmacies. Some batteries, particularly those with thick coatings, may not make consistent contact. Apple suggests looking for packaging that states “Compatible with AirTag.” Once a working battery is installed, the AirTag should resume normal operation immediately.
How often should you replace your AirTag battery
Most AirTag batteries last about a year under typical use. Frequent use of Precision Finding, sound playback or location updates may reduce battery life. iOS will notify you before the battery is fully depleted, so there’s no need to replace it preemptively unless you’re preparing for long-term travel or storage.
Used coin batteries should not be thrown in household trash. Many retailers and recycling centers accept lithium batteries for proper disposal. Check local recycling guidelines for battery drop-off locations. Storing used batteries in a secure container until they can be recycled helps reduce the risk of accidental contact or ingestion.
Replacing an AirTag battery is one of the simplest maintenance tasks Apple devices require. With a readily available battery and no tools involved, most users can complete the process in under a minute. As long as you pay attention to low battery notifications and follow basic safety precautions, your AirTag should continue tracking your belongings reliably with minimal effort.
This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://ift.tt/tVXUHrLfrom Engadget is a web magazine with obsessive daily coverage of everything new in gadgets and consumer electronics https://ift.tt/tVXUHrL
Underrated 2023 PS5, PS4 Adventure Game 80% Off on PS Store
An underrated gem PS5, PS4 action adventure game from 2023 is a whopping 80% off in a limited-time PS Store deal, bringing its price down to its lowest yet. Mad Head Games’ Scars Above might not be a AAA critical darling, but it’s definitely worth a shot, especially now that it’s on sale.
Action Adventure game Scars Above is under $10 in limited-time PS Store deal
PS5 and PS4 players can both grab Scars Above (cross-buy) for just $5.99 until February 5, following which it’ll revert to its usual price of $29.99. This is the complete deal, as there are no add-ons on DLC.
Scars Above is set in a sci-fi environment and blends third-person shooter with action adventure. You play as Dr Kate Ward, a member of the Sentient Contact Assessment and Response (SCAR) team, who is sent to investigate an alien structure that appears in Earth’s orbit.
“Things don’t go as planned, and the Metahedron (the alien structure) hauls the team across space onto a mysterious extrasolar planet,” a synopsis reads. “Determined to survive, you set out to find your crew and unravel the mystery behind what’s happened.”
Scars Above is a single-player game. PS Plus Premium members can cloud stream the title.
The post Underrated 2023 PS5, PS4 Adventure Game 80% Off on PS Store appeared first on PlayStation LifeStyle.
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Saturday, 31 January 2026
Battlefield 6 Fixes Cosmetics A Month After AI Slop Allegations
The post <i>Battlefield 6</i> Fixes Cosmetics A Month After AI Slop Allegations appeared first on Kotaku.
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Friday, 30 January 2026
Rumored New PS Portal’s Release Date Window Leaked
A well-known and reliable insider has corroborated recent rumors of a new PS Portal model and has leaked its release date window. Reports of a revised handheld began circulating several weeks ago, and now leaker KeplerL2 has added some weight to those rumors, claiming that the revised model will be out as soon as this year.
Rumors of a new PS Portal model crop up as the handheld becomes a surprising success story
According to Kepler L2, the revised PS Portal will feature an OLED screen. They didn’t provide any further information, but did say that its release window is 2026.
“[PS Portal] seems to be a success, they’re even doing another version this year,” Kepler L2 wrote.
An OLED screen is unlikely to be the only revision, so we’ll find out in due course what else we can expect. Over on the PS Portal subreddit, users are hoping for higher bit rate support, WiFi 7, better speakers, and even a touchpad on the back.
PS Portal users are also hoping for a big firmware update and an expansion of the cloud streaming library. The remote player was the only device that didn’t receive a system software update to kick off 2026, with the PS5 and PS4 receiving one each.
Do our readers use a PS Portal? Let us know what you’d like to see in a revised model.
The post Rumored New PS Portal’s Release Date Window Leaked appeared first on PlayStation LifeStyle.
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WD 8TB External Hard Drive Drops Back to $0.02 per GB, Now Cheaper Than 6TB Storage Capacity
The post WD 8TB External Hard Drive Drops Back to $0.02 per GB, Now Cheaper Than 6TB Storage Capacity appeared first on Kotaku.
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Thursday, 29 January 2026
PS Plus Game Still Free a Year After Being Removed From Catalog
PS5 and PS4 players have discovered that they still have access to a PS Plus Extra game a year after it was removed from the catalog. Life Is Strange 2 left PS Plus in March 2025 alongside Life Is Strange: True Colors, but a large number of players have retained a free copy of the former.
PS Store bug lets players access Life Is Strange 2 full game despite PS Plus removal
Over on Reddit, a player pointed out that they can access all episodes of Life Is Strange 2 despite never purchasing a copy. In response to the thread, several others checked their libraries and reported that they, too, could play the full game and never made a purchase.
If I recall correctly, a year ago, a PS Store glitch allowed players to download LIS 2 episodes for free. I assumed that Sony fixed the bug, but apparently, that’s not the case. If this is the same glitch, then even those who don’t have a PS Plus membership may still have the full game in their library.
Whatever the case, if you thought you lost access to LIS2 and never got around to finishing it, make sure to check your library before making a purchase.
The post PS Plus Game Still Free a Year After Being Removed From Catalog appeared first on PlayStation LifeStyle.
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DJI launches the lightweight RS 5 camera gimbal for video creators
DJI just revealed the RS 5 camera gimbal, a new entry in its long-standing Ronan Series. The RS 5 is lightweight, at around three pounds, with a maximum payload of nearly seven pounds.
This gimbal offers what DJI calls "enhanced intelligent subject tracking." The tracking was already impressive with some of the company's older offerings, so any improvement will be icing on the cake. A new tracking module lets videographers frame live footage and follow subjects directly from an included touchscreen, all without having to fiddle with the actual camera.
DJI
The tracking module also offers the ability to follow more than people. It can track pets, vehicles or just about any other object. It can also help maintain a locked focus on a human subject up to 10 meters away.
The RS 5 includes the company's latest stabilization algorithm, which DJI says lets videographers "effortlessly achieve complicated camera movements, such as surround shots, reverse tracking or single-person fixed-camera tracking." It's also great for when the cameraperson is capturing footage while walking or running.
It's been designed to carry a wide range of mainstream mirrorless cameras and lens combinations and can switch to vertical shooting without additional accessories. There's a nifty little briefcase handle for capturing footage from above or below.
The RS 5 delivers up to 14 hours of use per charge and can be fully charged in just an hour. Video shoots can take forever, so this is a welcome bit of news. For true marathons, there's a separate enhanced battery grip accessory that extends the runtime to 30 hours.
DJI
The standard DJI RS 5 includes the gimbal, a quick-open tripod, quick-release plates, a regular battery grip and some other useful accessories. That pack costs around $680. The combo pack includes all of the above, plus the enhanced tracking module, a carrying case and an electronic briefcase handle. That costs around $859.
Now for the bad news. We don't have a US release date or even any information as to if it will be available here. Engadget has reached out to DJI for more information. The company's drones were recently banned from being imported to the US. This only impacts newly-released models and shouldn't impact gimbals or anything like that.
This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://ift.tt/J76p1fLfrom Engadget is a web magazine with obsessive daily coverage of everything new in gadgets and consumer electronics https://ift.tt/J76p1fL
Free PS5 Upgrade All But Confirmed for Hit 2018 PS4 RPG
An incoming PS5 upgrade (possibly free) for one of the best PS4 RPGs has been leaked by none other than Sony. We first heard about Kingdom Come: Deliverance‘s unannounced PS5 port last July, but now, PS Store listings for the game mention the PS5 version, indicating an imminent release.
Kingdom Come: Deliverance PS5 upgrade leaked by Sony, but will it be free?
“The PS5 version of Kingdom Come: Deliverance now features graphical upgrades, including 4K resolution, an improved frame rate, high resolution textures, and much more,” reads a now-removed PS Store blurb that we can confirm seeing ourselves. “Medieval Bohemia has never looked so beautiful.”
This blurb was added to multiple regions’ PS Store pages for the original game and was removed when screenshots started making rounds online. Too late!
As for whether the upgrade will be free or not, the typical dev practice is to offer PS5 ports to PS4 owners at no additional cost. However, some publishers aren’t so generous and demand a small upgrade fee to cover the costs of porting their games.
We’ll find out in due course what Warhorse Studios and Deep Silver have planned. What we’re almost certain of is a Kingdom Come 1 and 2 bundle for new players.
The post Free PS5 Upgrade All But Confirmed for Hit 2018 PS4 RPG appeared first on PlayStation LifeStyle.
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Wednesday, 28 January 2026
Anker Steam Deck Docking Station Was Already a Value Pick, Now It’s at Its Lowest Price Ever After Another Discount
The post Anker Steam Deck Docking Station Was Already a Value Pick, Now It’s at Its Lowest Price Ever After Another Discount appeared first on Kotaku.
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PS5 System Update for January 2026 Adds New Features
Sony is rolling out PS5 system software update 26.01-12.60.00 as we speak, and this time, we’re getting more than just stability. The new firmware brings new social features, one of which was first rolled out for the PS App last year.
PS5 system software update 26.01-12.60.00 patch notes (January 28, 2026)
Complete patch notes for today’s update are as follows:
- You can now jump directly from the Friends Activity widget in your Welcome Hub to the games your friends are playing.
- You can now turn on read receipts to show other players when you’ve read their messages.
- To turn on your read receipts, go to Settings > Users and Accounts > Privacy > View and Customize Your Privacy Settings. Under Communication and multiplayer, set Show read receipts to other players on PS5 and PlayStation App to Allow.
- This feature will be rolled out gradually, and some users will be able to use it when the system software update is released.
- We’ve improved the messages and usability on some screens.
- We’ve improved system software performance and stability.
Sony has also rolled out a PS4 system software update today, which we’ll cover separately, so keep an eye out on our home page for more information on that if you’re a last-gen player.
The post PS5 System Update for January 2026 Adds New Features appeared first on PlayStation LifeStyle.
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Tuesday, 27 January 2026
PS Plus Essential February 2026 Free Game Leak Is Disappointing
A reliable insider has leaked PS Plus Essential February 2026 monthly free game, and it’s not what we were hoping for. Reportedly headlining next month is a boxing game that earned a mixed reception from both players and critics.
PS Plus Essential February 2026 monthly free game is a mediocre 2024 title
Developed by Steel City Interactive and published by Deep Silver, Undisputed is a PS5-only title. This means that Sony has officially started implementing its new policy of focusing on current-gen games. However, this focus on PS5 games won’t matter much to subscribers if the monthly headliners continue to disappoint.
? EXCLUSIVE ?
— billbil-kun (@billbil_kun) January 25, 2026
Here is the main title for February's PS Plus Monthly Games
? Available for all PS Plus tiers (Essential, Extra & Premium/Deluxe)
Feb 3rd – Mar 3rd, 2026 10AM UTC +1https://t.co/SaAQvTIMPV
Undisputed holds a PS Store rating of 2.57/5 stars based on 17,000 verified votes. On OpenCritic, the game is only recommended by 37% of reviewers. Meanwhile, Undisputed’s PS5 version holds a Metacritic average of 72/100.
“Become Undisputed and rule the ring in the most authentic boxing game to date,” reads a PS Store description. “Featuring true-to-life visuals, bone-jarring action, and more licensed boxers than ever before, Undisputed gives you unprecedented control to master every inch of the ring.”
Undisputed will become available to all PS Plus subscribers starting Tuesday, February 3. Premium members can access a game trial right now.
The full February free games lineup is expected to be announced on Wednesday, January 28.
The post PS Plus Essential February 2026 Free Game Leak Is Disappointing appeared first on PlayStation LifeStyle.
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Oopsie, Walmart’s Maybe Leaked Two Big-Name GameCube Games Coming To Switch Online
The post Oopsie, Walmart’s Maybe Leaked Two Big-Name GameCube Games Coming To Switch Online appeared first on Kotaku.
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Monday, 26 January 2026
Amazon’s Choice Windows 11 Pro Mini PC at Nearly 40% Off Is Surging as a Mac Mini Alternative
The post Amazon’s Choice Windows 11 Pro Mini PC at Nearly 40% Off Is Surging as a Mac Mini Alternative appeared first on Kotaku.
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LEGO Star Wars Millennium Falcon Is Back at a Record Low in Another Clearance Move on Amazon, Not the Official Store
The post LEGO Star Wars Millennium Falcon Is Back at a Record Low in Another Clearance Move on Amazon, Not the Official Store appeared first on Kotaku.
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Sunday, 25 January 2026
Apple accuses Europe of 'delay tactics' following alternative app store collapse
Following the shutdown of an alternative app store, Apple has accused the European Commission (EC) of using “political delay tactics” as an excuse to probe and fine the company, Bloomberg reported. Apple issued the statement preemptively as commission is reportedly preparing to blame Apple for the shutdown of third-party app store Setapp due to what the developer called “still-evolving and complex business terms.”
As part of an EU ruling, Apple was forced to allow third-party marketplaces for apps once the Digital Markets Act (DMA) took effect in 2024. Apple agreed to allow such stores, but implemented fees of €0.50 per installation if the number of downloads exceeded one million, among other rules.
In April 2025, the EC found Apple to be in “non-compliance” with the DMA over rules on “steering” users to alternative payments and levied a $500 million fine. In June last year, Apple said it would change its pricing for third-party App Stores to a five percent revenue share called the Core Technology Commission (CTC).
However, Apple said that the EC has so far refused to allow those changes. In the meantime, a developer called MacPaw shut down its fledgling Setapp store, saying Apple’s terms “don’t fit Setapp’s current business model” due to the complexity. As a result, the EC will reportedly rule that Apple hasn’t addressed the key issues it raised regarding business terms, including their complexity.
“The European Commission has refused to let us implement the very changes that they requested,” Apple said in a statement to Bloomberg. “In October, we submitted a formal compliance plan and they have yet to respond. The EC is using political delay tactics to mislead the public, move the goal posts, and unfairly target an American company with burdensome investigations and onerous fines.”
In reply, an EC spokesperson told Engadget that it’s in “constant” contact with Apple with the aim of finding a DMA-compliant solution. “The Commission’s main objective is that gatekeepers operate in full compliance with the DMA. The Commission is available to discuss and work with gatekeepers to achieve full compliance. In this context, the Commission has been in a constant dialogue with Apple to solve all pending issues, while also listening to developers from all over the world. We remain committed to this exchange to find a DMA compliant solution.”
This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://ift.tt/oPR8jkbfrom Engadget is a web magazine with obsessive daily coverage of everything new in gadgets and consumer electronics https://ift.tt/oPR8jkb
Saturday, 24 January 2026
Samsung Crashes the Galaxy Watch 7 to a Record Low to Clear Out Old Smartwatch Stock
The post Samsung Crashes the Galaxy Watch 7 to a Record Low to Clear Out Old Smartwatch Stock appeared first on Kotaku.
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Friday, 23 January 2026
The Morning After: Apple might be making its own AirTag-sized AI wearable
It’s been a while since rumors and reports suggested Apple is exploring a new divisive product category, and it’s been several years since the Apple car. Unfortunately, the new challenger is a wearable AI pin with cameras, mics and… zero interest from me.
According to a report from The Information, it’ll resemble a slightly thicker AirTag with an aluminum and glass exterior. The report suggests it’ll have two cameras (standard and wide-angle) for photos and video. It may also have three microphones and a (swoon) physical button. I love a physical button.
Apple
How is Apple going to pitch it? What is the non-creepy, not-nefarious selling point of a tiny listening device with cameras? As Engadget’s Devindra Hardawar puts it: Why attempt an unproven wearable? Especially when its own Watch and AirPods could already deliver a lot of what’s being rumored here.
The Information says Apple could release its AI pin as early as 2027, but it’s reportedly only in the very early stages and could still be canceled. Even if the Vision Pro and Watch eventually happened, the Apple Car and the Apple TV never did.
— Mat Smith
TikTok finalizes deal for its US entity
A group of non-Chinese investors will own 80 percent of it.
TikTok owner ByteDance has finalized a deal for its US entity. The majority of its stake is held by a group of non-Chinese investors. The deal was closed just before the Trump administration’s latest deadline to ban the app in the US unless it was divested from ByteDance. TikTok’s new investors will own 80 percent, with Oracle, Silver Lake and MGX, an Emirati-state owned investment firm, taking 15 percent each.
According to TikTok’s announcement, the joint venture will protect American users’ data with Oracle’s secure US cloud environment. It will also retrain TikTok’s algorithm using US users’ data and will be responsible for content moderation in the US. The new US TikTok also promises interoperability, ensuring users still get international content and, if they’re creators, viewers.
Bungie’s Marathon arrives on March 5
Another extraction shooter to distract.
Bungie
Bungie’s long-awaited Marathon will arrive on March 5. The 3v3 extraction shooter has a lot riding on it — but it looks pretty damn cool. You might remember Sony, Bungie’s parent company, previously committed to a September 2025 release. However, it delayed the game indefinitely last June after a mixed reception to its alpha and partially plagiarized visual assets.
It’s a very important game for both Bungie and Sony. The latter said Destiny 2 had not lived up to its expectations. It wants another hit like Helldivers 2, not another Concord.
How to find an affordable GPU during the great RAMageddon
It sucks out there.
If you’re thinking about getting a new graphics card this year, your window for doing so at a typical retail price has closed. What do you do if you want to upgrade to a new graphics card this year? If you’re sitting on an older GPU, the best advice we can give is to stick with your current hardware. On the other hand, if your current GPU is not up to running the games you want to play, consider buying a card with at least 12GB of VRAM. Then, well, read on for more tips and our top recommendations.
The biggest stories you might have missed
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AMD Ryzen 7 Just Dropped Again Overnight to 43% Off After the Ryzen 9 Clearance Deal on Amazon
The post AMD Ryzen 7 Just Dropped Again Overnight to 43% Off After the Ryzen 9 Clearance Deal on Amazon appeared first on Kotaku.
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Xbox Wireless Gaming Controller (2025) Gets Restocked at Its Lowest Price of the Year, Headed for Another Clearance
The post Xbox Wireless Gaming Controller (2025) Gets Restocked at Its Lowest Price of the Year, Headed for Another Clearance appeared first on Kotaku.
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Thursday, 22 January 2026
Snapchat gives parents more info on who their kids are talking to
Snapchat is updating its parental control features to give parents more detailed information about who their kids are connecting with in the app and which features they use the most. The app's Family Center already gives parents visibility into their child's friend list, but it will now surface contextual details when a new friend is added.
For example, the feature could highlight that the two share mutual friends or have each other's contact info saved in their phones. It could also indicate that they are classmates if both users have joined the same in-app “community.” If the two have no commonalities, then that could be a sign for a parent to "start a productive conversation," Snap says.
The company has long been criticized for making it too easy for teenagers to talk to strangers. The issue has come up in safety-related lawsuits, including an ongoing case brought by New Mexico's Attorney General. Snap says that adding additional "trust signals" to its parental control features "make it easier for parents to understand new connections and have greater confidence that their teen is chatting with someone they know in real life."
The update is also adding more granular stats about how exactly teens are spending their time in the app. Family Center's screen time dashboard now includes a breakdown of how much of their time spent in the app is in its messaging, camera, map or shortform video features. It will still be up to parents to decide what, if any, limits they want to put on their teens. But at a time when there's increasing conversation around banning teens from social media entirely, having access to more stats could better help parents understand their kids' relationship with Snapchat.
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List of Games Leaving PS Plus in February 2026 Quietly Updated
Sony has quietly updated the list of games leaving PS Plus Extra and Premium in February 2026, but not for the reason you think. A day ago, we reported that numerous games have randomly disappeared from the catalog — an issue that became noticeable when it emerged that two of the games in February’s departure list have been missing for a while. Now, Sony has addressed the problem.
Sony updates list of games leaving PS Plus in February after fans noticed missing titles
After players noticed that both Carto and Spirit of the North were already removed from the catalog without a warning (the latter of which was yanked without notice last year), some contacted PlayStation Support for an answer. Instead of fixing the problem, Sony decided to scrub the titles from its Last Chance to Play section.
As we’ve said before, the removal of these games wasn’t intentional, as they remain available to players who previously downloaded them. It’s just new players who are prompted to buy.
Sometimes, Sony will update a catalog game’s SKU on the PS Store, resulting in its temporary removal from PS Plus. At times, the company will eventually bring the title back into the catalog. Other times, Sony doesn’t bother, like in the case of Spirit of the North.
Considering these titles have now been removed from “Last Chance to Play,” my guess is that Sony has no intention of bringing them back into the catalog. Those who still have access to them will probably end up losing that access after February 2026, which is when Sony originally planned to remove them from the service.
The post List of Games Leaving PS Plus in February 2026 Quietly Updated appeared first on PlayStation LifeStyle.
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Wednesday, 21 January 2026
Xbox Elite Series 2 Core Wireless Gaming Controller Drops to an All-Time Low While PlayStation DualSense Stays Full Price
The post Xbox Elite Series 2 Core Wireless Gaming Controller Drops to an All-Time Low While PlayStation DualSense Stays Full Price appeared first on Kotaku.
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JBL Boombox 4 Drops Below Black Friday Prices as the Latest Portable Speaker Hits a New Low
The post JBL Boombox 4 Drops Below Black Friday Prices as the Latest Portable Speaker Hits a New Low appeared first on Kotaku.
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Highly Anticipated PS5 Action Game Gets Surprise Free Demo
Sega has surprised fans with a free demo for its highly anticipated upcoming PS5 action adventure game, and it’s out tonight. Yakuza Kiwami 3 & Dark Ties will replace the existing version of Yakuza 3 on the PS Store, and Sega wants fans to get a taste of what it has to offer.
Yakuza Kiwami 3 & Dark Ties free PS5 game demo detailed
The demo will be available to all PS5 players at 9 p.m. PT / 12 a.m. ET (January 22). Players will be able to try both Yakuza Kiwami 3 and the brand-new Dark Ties adventure. A PS Plus subscription is not required.
“In Yakuza Kiwami 3, players can explore Ryukyu, Okinawa as Kazuma Kiryu, beating down bad guys while dynamically switching between Kiryu’s brutal Dragon of Dojima: Kiwami and weapon-based Ryukyu styles and indulging in immersive side experiences like karaoke, sub-stories, outfit customization, and more,” Sega said (thanks, Gematsu). “In Dark Ties, players can enjoy a slice of the all-new story featuring Yoshitaka Mine, exploring Kamurocho and variety of side experiences while also sinking their teeth into Mine’s shoot-boxing combat to stylishly dispose of foes.”
Unfortunately, players can’t carry their save data over to the full game.
Yakuza Kiwami 3 & Dark Ties will launch on February 12 for the PS5 and PS4. A demo for the latter was not announced.
The post Highly Anticipated PS5 Action Game Gets Surprise Free Demo appeared first on PlayStation LifeStyle.
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Tuesday, 20 January 2026
The Morning After: Elon Musk wants a $134 billion payout from OpenAI and Microsoft
Part of a lawsuit accusing OpenAI of abandoning its non-profit status claims Musk is owed anywhere from $79 billion to $134 billion in damages for the “wrongful gains” of OpenAI and Microsoft.
Musk claims in the filing that he’s entitled to a chunk of the company’s recent $500 billion valuation, after contributing $38 million in “seed funding” during the AI company’s early years. It wasn’t just money — according to the filing, Musk helped advise on key employee recruitment, introductions with business contacts and startup advice.
If this sounds familiar, it’s because the lawsuit dates back to March 2024. It’s still going.
— Mat Smith
The other big stories (and deals) this morning
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ASUS changes mind, will continue selling the RTX 5070 Ti after all
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Musk claims Tesla will restart work on its Dojo supercomputer
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Microsoft issues emergency fix after update stops some Windows 11 devices from shutting down
Anthropic opens up Claude Cowork to anyone with a $20 subscription
Anthropic’s AI assistant can handle simple tasks on your PC for you.
Engadget
Claude Cowork, Anthropic’s AI assistant for handling simple tasks on your computer, is now available to anyone with a $20-per-month Pro subscription. It was previously an exclusive feature for its Max subscribers, who pay a minimum of $100 per month.
As a reminder, the intriguing part of Claude Cowork is its ability to work on its own. If you have the macOS Claude app and a Pro subscription, you can prompt Claude Cowork to work on tasks on your local computer, like creating documents based on files you have saved or organizing your folders. Don’t expect it to deal with high-level PC work just yet, but it can handle simple organizational tasks.
Dr. Gladys West, whose mathematical models inspired GPS, dies at 95
Her decades-long career finally received wider recognition in 2018.
Pioneering mathematician Dr. Gladys West has passed away at the age of 95. Her name may not be familiar to you, but her contributions will be. West’s work laid the foundation for the global positioning system, GPS, we all use (sometimes daily). Beyond DoorDash requests and Google Maps navigation, GPS is now an essential component of industries ranging from aviation to emergency response systems.
ASUS will not release any new smartphones this year
Will the company be joining the likes of LG?
Engadget
ASUS might step back from smartphones. According to translations of recent quotes from Chair Jonney Shih, the company does not plan to release new phone models in the future. Previous reports suggested ASUS would not introduce any smartphones in 2026, but Shih’s recent comments indicate the pause may last longer, if not indefinitely. We’ve reached out to ASUS for additional comment. It's not like the company changes its mind...
This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://ift.tt/0896tCDfrom Engadget is a web magazine with obsessive daily coverage of everything new in gadgets and consumer electronics https://ift.tt/0896tCD
Sony is handing control of its Bravia TV business to China's TCL
Sony is ceding control of its Bravia TV brand to China's TCL as part of a new "strategic partnership," the companies announced in a joint press release. The Japanese electronics giant plans to sell a majority 51 percent stake in its home entertainment arm to TCL, while retaining a 49 percent share. The joint venture is set to start operations in April 2027, pending regulatory and other approvals.
The new combined business will sell TVs carrying Sony and Bravia branding while using TCL's display technology. The partnership will also leverage Sony's picture and audio expertise, supply chain management and other areas of expertise. For its part, TCL will contribute its vertical supply chain strength, global market presence and end-to-end cost efficiency.
"By combining both companies' expertise, we aim to create new customer value in the home entertainment field," Sony CEO Kimio Maki said in a statement. "We expect to elevate our brand value, achieve greater scale and optimize the supply chain in order to deliver superior products and services to our customers," added TCL Electronics chairperson DU Juan.
The news will come as a shock to some, particularly in Japan, as Sony has been strongly associated with high-quality TVs since the Trinitron days. However, it's currently fighting in a low-margin TV business full of formidable competitors including Samsung, LG, Hisense and TCL. The company has already sold off or closed other electronics operations, including PCs and tablets, and is barely hanging in with its smartphone business.
Sony effectively stopped making its own LCD and OLED panels some time ago, while TCL has increased its own production — having recently purchased LCD Panel patents from Samsung and taken over its plant in China. Other Japanese companies like Toshiba and Hitachi have already exited the TV business, while some including Panasonic have a highly reduced presence.
The Bravia brand survived mainly thanks to customers willing to pay extra for high-end picture and sound quality, along with Sony's association to filmmaking and high-end camera gear. As I detailed in a recent explainer, Sony was a pioneer in many key flat panel breakthroughs, having developed LED backlighting, quantum dot technology and the first OLED TVs.
This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://ift.tt/CmR1BZgfrom Engadget is a web magazine with obsessive daily coverage of everything new in gadgets and consumer electronics https://ift.tt/CmR1BZg
Games Leaving PS Plus in February 2026 Confirmed
PS Store has revealed the initial list of games leaving PS Plus Extra and Premium in February 2026, as the January 2026 lineup has begun rolling out in some regions. As accurately predicted, Square Enix RPG SaGa Frontier Remastered is among the games that will be leaving next month.
List of games leaving PS Plus Extra, Premium in February 2026 (as of January 20, 2026)
The following list of departures has been confirmed thus far:
- WWE 2K25
- SaGa Frontier Remastered
- The Ascent
- Spirit of the North
- Cult of the Lamb
- Super Neptunia RPG
- Carto
- Rez Infinite
- New World Aeternum (delisted)
Do note that this list isn’t definitive, as Sony sometimes adds more games to the departure list and/or removes games without a warning.
The games listed above are expected to leave the service by February 17, when next month’s Extra and Premium lineups are added to the catalog. We’ll update our readers if more games are added to the PS Store’s Last Chance to Play section.
Replacing these games is a lineup that has received a positive response from Extra members. Premium/Deluxe members have been left a little disappointed, however, as once again, only one classic has been added to the catalog.
The post Games Leaving PS Plus in February 2026 Confirmed appeared first on PlayStation LifeStyle.
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Sunday, 18 January 2026
Microsoft issues emergency fix after a security update left some Windows 11 devices unable to shut down
If you weren't able to shut down your Windows 11 device recently, Microsoft has rolled out an emergency fix addressing a couple of critical bugs that popped up with its latest January 2026 Windows security update. The latest "out-of-band" update repairs an issue for some Windows 11 devices that would only restart when users tried to shut down or hibernate. The same update restores the ability for Windows 10 and Windows 11 users to log into their devices via remote connection apps.
Microsoft said the inability to shut down or hibernate affected Windows 11 devices using Secure Launch, a security feature that protects a computer from firmware-level attacks during startup. As for the remote connection issue, Microsoft explained in its Known issues page that credential prompt failures were responsible when users tried to log in remotely to affected Windows 10 and 11 devices.
According to WindowsLatest, some lingering issues with the January 2026 Windows security update are still affecting users, like seeing blank screens or Outlook Classic crashing. Back in October, Microsoft had to issue another emergency fix for Windows 11 related to the Windows Recovery Environment. For those still hesitant to upgrade to Windows 11, Microsoft is allowing you to squeeze some more life out of Windows 10 by enrolling in Extended Security Updates.
This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://ift.tt/CJ2jaNifrom Engadget is a web magazine with obsessive daily coverage of everything new in gadgets and consumer electronics https://ift.tt/CJ2jaNi
PS3 Game Streaming Busted for PS Plus Premium Users
PS Plus Premium users are expressing frustration as a major tier perk — PS3 game streaming — has been down for several days at least. It appears that players can only stream games that are already in their library. If you want to try a PS3 game you haven’t already played before, it won’t launch.
PS Plus Premium members trying various workarounds for PS3 game streaming
PS3 games are only available to stream, and are thus only available to players in countries where Sony offers cloud streaming support. The equivalent of PS Plus Premium in non-streaming countries is PS Plus Deluxe.
Sometime over the last week, players began reporting that a large number of PS3 games in the catalog (and there aren’t that many to begin with) don’t launch when they press the Stream button. Only those they’ve tried before and are in their library boot up.
The problem persists at the time of this writing, and there’s been no acknowledgement from Sony. Those who have contacted PS Support have been told that the company is aware of the problem but there’s no ETA for a fix.
In the meantime, some players have discovered a workaround. Apparently, adding a game you want to stream to your PS Store wishlist is the solution. You can then access the game page from your wishlist, click the Stream button, and the game should launch.
Another workaround is using PS Plus app on PC to add PS3 games to your library. Attempting to play games via the PC app will automatically add them to your console’s library, bypassing the aforementioned bug.
While these solutions have worked for many, they haven’t worked for everyone. If this doesn’t help, unfortunately, you’ll have to wait for Sony to address the problem.
The post PS3 Game Streaming Busted for PS Plus Premium Users appeared first on PlayStation LifeStyle.
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Washington is the latest state pursuing an age verification law for porn sites
Washington state residents may soon be forced to produce IDs before getting onto websites with pornographic content. Within the state's House of Representatives, Rep. Mari Leavitt introduced House Bill 2112, which is informally known as the Keep Our Children Safe Act. Similar to the initiatives seen in other states, the bill proposes to restrict access to "online sexual material harmful" to anyone under 18.
In practical terms, those living in Washington state could see websites asking for digital identification or demanding the user go through an age verification system that requests a government-issued ID. If a website that has more than one-third of its content being "sexual material harmful to minors" is found not following these rules, the state's attorney general can pursue steep civil penalties.
If those restrictions sound familiar, it's because many other states have also passed similar constraints. Washington state's proposed bill is very similar to Texas' age verification law that went into effect in September 2023 and was recently upheld by the US Supreme Court. Like the Texas law, several groups expressed disapproval of the bill during the public hearing at the House committee level. As reported by The Seattle Times, groups including the ACLU, Lavender Rights Project and the Northwest Progressive Institute warned of privacy risks related to potential data breaches and the loose definition of "sexual material harmful to minors" in the bill's language.
This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://ift.tt/JCqpmnsfrom Engadget is a web magazine with obsessive daily coverage of everything new in gadgets and consumer electronics https://ift.tt/JCqpmns
Ex-Assassin’s Creed Boss Sues Ubisoft For Nearly $1 Million Over Alleged Forced Firing
The post Ex-<i>Assassin’s Creed</i> Boss Sues Ubisoft For Nearly $1 Million Over Alleged Forced Firing appeared first on Kotaku.
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Saturday, 17 January 2026
How to cancel CyberGhost and get a refund
I came out of my CyberGhost review with a positive opinion, feeling it had earned its spot in my best VPN roundup. However, even an expert review is subjective, and there's a chance CyberGhost will not work for you. If that’s the case, here's how to cancel your subscription.
How to stop your CyberGhost subscription renewing
Cancelling your CyberGhost subscription won't end it right away, unless you delete your account or get the refund (I'll explain how to do both of those later). Instead, the way to cancel CyberGhost is to stop your subscription from renewing at the end of each billing period. Once you've done that, you can keep using CyberGhost until your current period ends.
The following steps will cancel auto-renewal if you got CyberGhost through its website. If you bought it through an app store instead, see the next section.
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Open your browser and go to cyberghostvpn.com.
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At the top-right of the screen, click the box labeled My Account. Enter your username and password if you aren't logged in already.
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Look at the top-right corner of the new screen and click the CyberGhost logo next to your email address. From the drop-down menu, select Subscriptions.
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Find the subscription you want to cancel and select Cancel Subscription.
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When prompted, click Continue to Cancel.
Sam Chapman for Engadget
This will turn off automatic billing for your account. The next time you would have been billed, your subscription will expire. You can resubscribe by purchasing another term. If you're within the refund period — 14 days for a monthly subscription and 45 days for all others — you can now request your money back.
How to cancel CyberGhost if you subscribed through an app store
When you subscribe to an app through the Apple App Store or Google Play Store, the store handles the billing; the app provider doesn't process the money itself. If you bought CyberGhost through an app store and want to cancel, you'll have to ask the app store in question, not CyberGhost. Here's how to do it.
If you subscribed through the Apple App Store, you'll need to cancel through your Apple ID. Here are the steps.
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Open the Settings app on your home screen.
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At the top of the Settings menu, you'll see your name. Tap it.
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In your Apple Account menu, tap Subscriptions.
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Scroll until you find your CyberGhost subscription, then tap on it.
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Tap the words Cancel Subscription, then follow the prompts.
Here's what to do if you subscribed through the Google Play store. Similar to the Apple process, you'll go through the list of subscriptions on your profile.
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Open the Google Play Store app.
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Tap the circle in the top-right corner with the first letter of your name.
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Find the Payments & Subscriptions menu and tap on it. On the next menu that appears, tap Subscriptions.
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Scroll down until you find your CyberGhost subscription. Tap on it, then click Cancel Subscription.
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Follow the prompts to complete cancellation.
How to delete your CyberGhost account
Before you set out to delete your CyberGhost account altogether, make sure you've cancelled auto-renew first by following the steps in the previous section. If you don't, you might still be charged for the subscription you're not using, and it's a huge hassle to end that without an account.
Once you've done that, log into your account on cyberghostvpn.com and click on your account profile at the top-right, just like when you canceled auto-renewal. Below the username/password window and the message about an activation key, you'll see the words Delete My Account in tiny letters.
Sam Chapman for Engadget
Click on them. On the page that appears, select Delete My Account again. Follow any more prompts you're given to annihilate your username for good (note that you can't use it again afterwards).
How to get a refund from CyberGhost
To get a refund on your CyberGhost subscription, you have to be inside the window for the plan you chose. With a monthly plan, the refund period is 14 days. For all other plans, it's 45 days. If this time has elapsed, there's unfortunately no way to get your money back.
If you are within the refund period, you can get your money by sending a request through customer support. You can email support@cyberghost.ro, submit a ticket through this link or open a live chat conversation by clicking the Live Chat button at the bottom-right of any page on cyberghostvpn.com. No matter what method you choose, the conversation will go faster if you have your order number on-hand — check your inbox if you don't know it.
Sam Chapman for Engadget
If you went through an app store, you'll need to request your money back from that platform instead. Apple and Google Play handle their own monetary transactions, which means they also process refunds.
Best CyberGhost alternatives
After you've cancelled and/or deleted CyberGhost out of your life, you still need a VPN; the benefits of masking your IP address and changing your virtual location don't go anywhere. You can check out my best list (linked at the top) or best free VPN roundup for ideas, or check out the review for my favorite service, Proton VPN.
Proton VPN is my top choice because of its focus on user freedoms and attention to quality in everything it does. If you're willing to pay a bit more for extreme simplicity and total reliability, ExpressVPN is ideal for beginners. If you're a speed demon and just want to keep your downloads fast, go with Surfshark.
This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://ift.tt/lEnN02Ufrom Engadget is a web magazine with obsessive daily coverage of everything new in gadgets and consumer electronics https://ift.tt/lEnN02U
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