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Rivals season 2 part 2 release date confirmed by Hulu and Disney+ — but it's the first-look images that have me screaming

  • Rivals season 2 part 2 release date confirmed for November 11 by Hulu and Disney+
  • Begins with a three-episode premiere followed by weekly releases
  • Upcoming episodes will feature 'a Hunt Ball, a chaotic Bonfire Night and a very Rivals Christmas

Breathe a sign of relief, Jilly Cooper fans: Rivals season 2 part 2 returns to Hulu (US) and Disney+ (international) from November 11, 2026.

The season's second half is set to kick off with a three-episode premiere, with weekly releases of the remaining three episodes following after.

Our core cast is set to return — well, all except for one, which we'll get to in a minute — but we'll also see the introduction of three important new characters.

Rachael Stirling will play Lady Monica Baddingham’s vampish younger sister Araminta Pemberton, Rupert Evans is erudite headmaster David Hawkley, and Santiago Cabrera takes on the role of Argentinian Polo legend Alejandro Mendoza.

While overarching plot details have been limited to episodes featuring " a Hunt Ball, a chaotic Bonfire Night and a very Rivals Christmas," the shock part 1 cliffhanger tells us exactly where we'll be picking the action up... and that's a bittersweet thing.

Rivals season 2 part 2 first-look images tease a Lizzie-Freddie reconciliation

Spoilers for Rivals season 2 part 1 ahead.

Rivals season 2 part 2 is set to pick back up with Monica's (Claire Rushbrook) funeral, with the full mid-season synopsis reading: " Picking up after the gut-wrenching mid-series finale, Tony Baddingham (David Tennant) and Declan O'Hara's (Aiden Turner) battle for the Cotswolds crown reaches fever pitch, while Rupert Campbell-Black (Alex Hassell) is forced to confront his own personal demons.

"Against a backdrop of hedonistic parties, Bonfire Night chaos, the Hampshire Hunt Ball and a turbulent Christmas, affairs unravel, alliances fracture and rivalries intensify. Caught in the middle of the frenzied franchise war, Taggie O'Hara (Bella Maclean) must find the courage to follow her heart, while those around her face the consequences of ambition, power and secrets that can no longer remain hidden. But as series two draws to a close, who will get their happy ending?"

Freddie and Lizzie look at each other

(Image credit: Hulu/Disney)

Not only does this signal that Taggie and Rupert will find their way back to each other before the season ends, but the above first-look image also teases an much-anticipated reunion between Freddie (Danny Dyer) and Lizzie (Katherine Parkinson).

After almost being caught together in the first half of season 2, Lizzie decided to be the bigger person and end things with Freddie before their colliding worlds got any more complicated. Has this decision made her happy? No, so you know that it's not going to last for long.

Expect "secrets, betrayals and explosive twists," and if we're being honest... that's just the start of it.

What is the release date for Lioness season 3 episode 7 on Paramount+?

God, the search for Joe (Zoe Saldaña) is taking its sweet time, isn't it? At this rate, things still won't be resolved by next week's Lioness season 3 finale.

The CIA has narrowed its rescue search to the Houston area, but fallout from dismantled Russian networks in Washington has led to some tense confrontations and a pretty disastrous decision for one of our leading senators.

But surely this week has to bring better things... right? And when does Lioness season 3 episode 7 arrive on Paramount+?

What time can I watch Lioness season 3 episode 7 on Paramount+?

Lioness season 3 episode 7 will drop on one of the world's best streaming services in the US and Canada on Sunday, September 13 at 12am PT / 3am ET.

Here's when it will be released in other nations globally:

  • US – 12am PT / 3am ET
  • Canada – 12am PT / 3am ET
  • UK – 8am BST
  • India – 12:30pm IST
  • Singapore – 3pm SGT
  • Australia – 5pm AEST
  • New Zealand – 7pm NZST

When do new episodes of Lioness season 3 come out?

Byron and Kaitlyn look across a desk

(Image credit: Paramount+)

Lioness season 3 will have a total of eight episodes, with new entries airing weekly. That gives us the following schedule:

  • Episode 1: out now
  • Episode 2: out now
  • Episode 3: out now
  • Episode 4: out now
  • Episode 5: out now
  • Episode 6: out now
  • Episode 7: September 13
  • Episode 8: September 20

The universal language of space is... Star Trek? Mais oui.

8 September 2026 at 21:20

Sixty years after television audiences first tuned in to see the voyages of the Starship Enterprise, an astronaut on board the International Space Station has paid tribute to Star Trek by flying the badge of the franchise's latest fictional captain.

Expedition 75 flight engineer Sophie Adenot with European Space Agency (ESA) donned the Delta badge originally worn by actor Anson Mount for a video recorded from aboard the space station. Mount portrays Christoper Pike in the Paramount+ streaming series Star Trek: Strange New Worlds. Paramount and ESA both released the clip on their Instagram feeds.

"For 60 years, Star Trek has brought us stories of friendship and exploration. I'm wearing Captain Pike's badge aboard the ISS in celebration of continuing the real world work of science and exploration," said Adenot. "For me, exploration and science are about curiosity and cooperation daring to go a little farther together, learning from what we discover and build, and turning that knowledge into a better future for everyone."

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© ESA

The universal language of space is... Star Trek? Mais oui.

8 September 2026 at 21:20

Sixty years after television audiences first tuned in to see the voyages of the Starship Enterprise, an astronaut on board the International Space Station has paid tribute to Star Trek by flying the badge of the franchise's latest fictional captain.

Expedition 75 flight engineer Sophie Adenot with European Space Agency (ESA) donned the Delta badge originally worn by actor Anson Mount for a video recorded from aboard the space station. Mount portrays Christoper Pike in the Paramount+ streaming series Star Trek: Strange New Worlds. Paramount and ESA both released the clip on their Instagram feeds.

"For 60 years, Star Trek has brought us stories of friendship and exploration. I'm wearing Captain Pike's badge aboard the ISS in celebration of continuing the real world work of science and exploration," said Adenot. "For me, exploration and science are about curiosity and cooperation daring to go a little farther together, learning from what we discover and build, and turning that knowledge into a better future for everyone."

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© ESA

OnePlus Watch 4 : cette montre connectée premium passe sous les 195 € sur AliExpress

8 September 2026 at 14:00
La OnePlus Watch 4 réunit Wear OS, un grand écran LTPO AMOLED et de nombreuses fonctions dédiées au quotidien comme au suivi de la forme. Une montre pensée pour faire plus qu'afficher des notifications. En ce moment, cette montre s'affiche à moins de 280 euros sur AliExpress grâce à une double...

Apple preps privacy-first home security cameras and monitoring service

4 September 2026 at 18:00

Apple logo with security lock

Apple is preparing a dedicated home-security product line and a companion monitoring service, according to Bloomberg News’ Mark Gurman, as the company maps a broader expansion of its smart-home business beyond next week’s iPhone event.

In a Sept. 4 report on Apple’s product pipeline under new Chief Executive Officer John Ternus, Gurman said the company is working on an in-home security sensor and system slated for 2027. The device is described as a privacy-centric camera and automation accessory that would use artificial intelligence to watch a room’s environment rather than continuously storing traditional video footage. That hardware, he wrote, is expected to tap into a new Apple home-security and monitoring service.

The framing is consistent with earlier Gurman reporting that Apple has been developing battery-powered security hardware — previously discussed as a camera and later as a small sensor, internally associated with the J450 project — that can recognize people, use infrared sensing, and trigger automations such as lights or music when a household member enters or leaves a room. Apple has also been said to be exploring a wider lineup that could eventually include additional cameras and a facial-recognition doorbell aimed at rivals such as Amazon’s Ring and Google’s Nest.

A service layer would be a notable shift. Apple already offers HomeKit Secure Video through iCloud, but Gurman’s latest account points to a more complete security and monitoring offering — the kind of recurring product that could sit alongside Apple’s other subscription businesses. Industry coverage of the same Bloomberg report has noted that such a service could later be bundled into Apple One, though Apple has not announced pricing, professional monitoring, or how much processing would stay on-device.

The security push is part of a larger home reset. Gurman and other reports have said Apple is first rolling out refreshed living-room hardware, including a new Apple TV 4K, an updated HomePod mini, and a screen-equipped home hub often referred to as a HomePad, before the 2027 security system arrives. The company has long lagged Amazon and Google in connected-home hardware even as it has marketed privacy as a differentiator. An AI-first sensor that avoids constant video recording would be an attempt to turn that brand position into a product category.

Apple has not publicly confirmed the devices or the service. Details on design, battery life, outdoor coverage, emergency dispatch, and whether video would still be captured after an AI alert remain unreported. What Gurman’s reporting does make clear is that Apple now sees home security as both a hardware line and a services opportunity — and that the company is targeting 2027 to bring them to market together.
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MacDailyNews Take: This will be great – as long as it works with our Eufy cameras!


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I watched the behind-the-scenes documentary Disney Worldbuilders and it's inspiring — but I wish they had turned it into a Disney+ series instead

After falling in love with Disneyland Handcrafted, I was excited to dive into the studio's latest documentary movie, Disney Worldbuilders. Directed by Leslie Iwerks, the new movie has a tiny runtime of 58 minutes and call me greedy, but I really wanted more.

Disney Worldbuilders gets up-close-and-personal with some of Disney's most influential voices, where we learn about creative processes and their lasting impact on both cinema and the Disney Parks around the world.

Even though I loved what I saw, I did feel as though Worldbuilders tries to squeeze too much into its runtime. Unlike Handcrafted, which solely focuses on Walt's vision for Disneyland in Anaheim, this jumps around between subjects, and I wish we'd had an episode for each person interviewed so we could've taken a deeper dive.

The stacked line-up is made up of Bob Iger, James Cameron, Jon Favreau, Kevin Feige, Jennifer Lee, Pete Docter, Dave Filoni, Jared Bush, and Josh D’Amaro. That's a lot of people to talk to in under an hour, so I really wish we'd had more time with all of them!

Bob Iger in particular deserves a documentary of his own, and I hope we get one so we can properly examine the huge impact he's had on the Walt Disney Company, because it's not to be sniffed at. His segments didn't seem to fit with the rest of the interviews.

Still, that doesn't mean Worldbuilders is not worth your time. Far from it, in fact; I think it gives some really valuable and inspiring insights from some of the biggest names across Disney properties like Pixar, Star Wars, and Marvel, and it's hard not to smile when you're greeted with this footage.

Disney Worldbuilders first look

Jennifer Lee and her sister have an emotional scene in Disney Worldbuilders. (Image credit: Disney)

The scale of the Disney Parks really is fascinating, and I liked how we were able to see the early days of areas such as Hollywood Studios' Galaxy's Edge and Animal Kingdom’s Pandora, especially how the directors of those movies responded to seeing their creations come to life. Now, fans get to walk through the worlds we see on screen, and the constant innovation going on across the global parks is jaw-dropping.

I found myself getting emotional during certain parts, particularly Jennifer Lee's reaction to World of Frozen at Disneyland Paris. Seeing her wandering around with Olaf and reflecting on her relationship with her sister is incredibly touching, given how Anna and Elsa are such inspirational figures to a lot of people out there.

Even though the interviews with each subject are short, we do get a lot of heartfelt anecdotes which I found to be very interesting. As someone who has been enamored with filmmaking from a young age, it's inspiring to see how these amazing creatives can help shape future attractions for all ages. In Worldbuilders, they reflect on their own childhoods and how they ended up working for one of the biggest media companies in the world.

Ultimately, this would have worked so much better in an episodic format because I could have happily watched eight hours of this, as opposed to the one hour we did get. I am hopeful that Disney will do more long-form Parks-focused documentaries like this, especially ones that talk to the creatives responsible for writing these worlds we know and love.

Disney Worldbuilders comes to Disney+ on August 20. While you wait, why not check out the best Disney+ movies and best Disney+ TV shows to stream right now.

Os 9 smartphones com maior bateria que pode comprar em Portugal

7 August 2026 at 15:06

Da Xiaomi à Realme, reunimos os smartphones com as maiores baterias à venda no mercado português, todos equipados com a tecnologia de silício-carbono que tem vindo a redefinir a autonomia da última geração de smartphones.

The post Os 9 smartphones com maior bateria que pode comprar em Portugal appeared first on Tek Notícias.

After jacking up prices, Disney+ and Netflix consider offering free alternatives

5 August 2026 at 18:12

Disney is “exploring a free product” for streaming customers, CEO Josh D’Amaro confirmed in a call with investors today.

D’Amaro, who succeeded Bob Iger as Disney’s chief in March, said that a free Disney-owned streaming service would help Disney reach more “price-sensitive” customers, which is a “strategic priority” for Disney, according to a transcript of the call.

A free streaming service would also generate more ad revenue, which has become increasingly important for streaming services challenged by plateauing subscriber numbers, subscriber churn, and competition from cheaper and free rivals.

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© Getty

Apple eyes health and fitness features for rumored smart glasses, job listing suggests

4 August 2026 at 21:00
"Apple Glasses" designed by Martin Hajek for iDrop News
“Apple Glasses” concept designed by Martin Hajek for iDrop News

Apple is laying groundwork to turn its long-rumored smart glasses into a health and fitness platform, according to a recent job listing highlighted by Bloomberg News’ Mark Gurman.

In his Power On newsletter, Gurman pointed to an opening in Apple’s Vision Products Group for a “strategic product design leader.” The role is tasked with helping “define the future of health, well-being and fitness experiences across vision products.” The successful candidate would “translate ambiguous opportunities at the intersection of spatial computing, wearables, consumer health, and human behavior into clear first-party product direction.”

The posting, which lists locations in Los Angeles and San Jose, also emphasizes experience with “sensor-driven experiences,” digital health or fitness products, personalization, and multimodal interfaces. Cult of Mac noted that the Los Angeles option may reflect proximity to Apple Fitness+ studios in Santa Monica.

This builds on earlier ambitions for the Vision Pro. Gurman reported that Apple had explored an Apple Fitness+ experience on the headset that would let users follow workout classes while body-tracking cameras analyzed form. Those plans were shelved due to technical challenges and the device’s weight, which made it impractical for exercise.

Smart glasses, expected to be a lighter, more everyday alternative similar in concept to Meta’s Ray-Ban AI glasses, offer a better form factor for such features over time. Sensors, cameras, and accelerometers could eventually support workout tracking, form analysis (for activities like weightlifting or yoga), and other biometric insights.

Gurman and other reports indicate these advanced health capabilities are unlikely to debut with the first-generation glasses, currently anticipated around late 2027 (with a possible earlier reveal). Instead, Apple is expected to follow its pattern with the Apple Watch and AirPods: launch the core hardware platform first, then expand health and fitness features across subsequent generations.

The job listing provides one of the clearest public signals yet of Apple’s longer-term vision for its eyewear and other vision products as potential companions to the Watch and AirPods in the company’s health ecosystem. As always with Apple rumors, timelines and final features remain subject to change.

MacDailyNews Take: We feel like we’ve been waiting for Apple’s AR smart glasses for forever!

The Apple Glasses will be the key as holding up slabs of glass as “windows” is suboptimal. When we’re running in a race, for example, we don’t want to have to hold an iPhone or even glance at an Apple Watch, but with a pair of Apple Glasses constantly overlaying time, pace, splits, etc. it’ll be ideal! — MacDailyNews, September 6, 2019


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4K Video Downloader Plus 26.2

2 August 2026 at 19:47
4K Video Downloader Plus 26 icon
Brings better file organization and smarter YouTube channel subscriptions to the video downloading utility. (Free with paid license options, free update, 271.6 MB, macOS 12+)

macOS Hidden Treasures: Quick Look

The hardest Bob's Burgers quiz of all time is here — but can you handle the grill heat and score more than 80%?

Fun fact: whenever I have days that I work remotely, I'll always have an episode of Bob's Burgers on in the background. In fact, I watch all 16 seasons of the hit Hulu and Disney+ animated comedy so often, that I could tell you exactly what episode was on without directly looking at it.

I felt incredibly prepared for the handful of Bob's Burgers quizzes already on the internet claiming to be the hardest, but nobody has yet been able to truly test the reams of random knowledge I've acquired from watching the series so often.

Should I be able to tell recite the lyrics to the song that plays over Tina and Tammy's first time collectively ditching class in season 2? Probably not.

So, behold — the genuinely most difficult Bob's Burgers quiz that I have played to date (because I made it). If you get more than 80%, I'll assume that you're actually a Wharf resident who's somehow found their way into the real world.

I have left out anything that happens in The Bob's Burgers Movie, but you'll need to have seen seasons 1-16 in order to answer all of the questions.

Check back when Bob's Burgers season 17 (hopefully) airs in early 2027... you know that the above will be updated accordingly.

Apple’s rumored security camera: Privacy-focused HomeKit device expected as part of broader smart home push

31 July 2026 at 17:00
Apple’s rumored security camera. (Image: Grok Imagine)
(Image: Grok Imagine)

Apple has not officially announced any first-party security camera, but multiple reports from analysts and journalists indicate the company is developing one (and possibly related products like a video doorbell) to compete more directly with Amazon’s Ring and Google’s Nest. The effort forms part of a wider smart-home hardware expansion that also includes a home hub and updated speakers.

Core Rumors and Sources

Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo reported in late 2024 that Apple was preparing a wireless smart home IP camera for mass production in 2026, with ambitions for millions of units annually and assembly by Goertek. The device is described as designed for tight wireless integration with other Apple products and expected to leverage Siri and Apple Intelligence.

Bloomberg News’ Mark Gurman has repeatedly covered Apple’s smart-home plans, stating the company is working on multiple types of cameras and home-security products. One reported design is a battery-powered camera lasting several months to a year on a charge. It would include facial recognition and infrared sensors to identify people in a room, supporting automation such as turning lights off when someone leaves or playing preferred music for a recognized family member. Users are expected to place cameras throughout the home for both security and presence-based automation.

A Face ID-equipped video doorbell has also been rumored; it could recognize residents and wirelessly unlock a compatible deadbolt. Reports suggest the doorbell may lag behind the primary security camera in development.

Internal code references to a device codenamed J229 (mentioned in late 2025 reporting) describe capabilities including image capture, alarm-sound detection, and multiple sensors (features obviously consistent with a security camera). Some coverage linked support for it to a spring 2026 software window, though timelines have since been described as more fluid.

Expected Features and Ecosystem Fit

Any Apple camera would almost certainly rely on HomeKit Secure Video, which already provides end-to-end encrypted streaming and recording to iCloud+ (with local analysis on a home hub such as a HomePod or Apple TV). Apple has recently expanded the platform: iOS 27 and related software add 4K support for compatible cameras, AI-generated text descriptions of footage, natural-language search across clips (e.g., “package delivery”), and grouping of noteworthy events across multiple cameras. These AI features reportedly require a higher-tier (2 TB) iCloud+ plan.

An official Apple camera would be expected to offer deeper, native integration than third-party options—potentially stronger on-device intelligence, seamless Siri/Apple Intelligence features, and privacy guarantees aligned with Apple’s usual approach (encrypted video that even Apple cannot access). Specifics on resolution, night vision, field of view, indoor vs. outdoor designs, or exact form factor remain unconfirmed.

Timing and Status

Early reports pointed toward 2026 availability, with some speculation around a spring window or a March 2026 “Apple Experience” event. More recent coverage (as of mid-2026) treats the latter half of 2026 or later as the more realistic window, noting that earlier expectations have slipped and that no official confirmation, pricing, detailed specs, or prototypes have been made public.

Apple already supports a limited selection of third-party HomeKit Secure Video cameras (from brands such as Eve, Aqara, Logitech, and others). A first-party device would give the company direct hardware control and a clearer path to showcase new Home app and Apple Intelligence capabilities.

MacDailyNews Take: Credible info from Kuo, Gurman, and others consistently points to Apple developing at least one battery-powered, privacy-oriented security camera with facial/presence sensing for automation, plus possible related products such as a Face ID doorbell. Everything remains unannounced and speculative on exact design, price, and launch date as of late July 2026. Further clarity will depend on official statements or stronger supply-chain evidence.


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Apple brings AppleCare One to the UK, streamlining coverage

27 July 2026 at 19:00
Apple brings AppleCare One to the UK, giving customers a new way to cover multiple Apple products with one simple plan.
Apple brings AppleCare One to the UK, giving customers a new way to cover multiple Apple products with one simple plan.

Apple on Monday announced AppleCare One — a new way for customers to protect multiple Apple devices under one simple plan — is available in the UK. Starting at £16.99 per month, AppleCare One covers up to three products, with the flexibility to add more at any time for £4.99 per month per device.

With AppleCare One, customers receive comprehensive, one-stop service and support from Apple experts across every product in their plan — delivering affordable peace of mind. Beginning August 4th, customers in the UK can sign up for AppleCare One at apple.com or their nearest Apple Store. Those who already have an AppleCare+ plan can also sign up directly on their iPhone, iPad, or Mac.

“At Apple, we’re focused on creating and delivering exceptional experiences,” said Bob Borchers, Apple’s vice president of Worldwide Product Marketing, in a statement. “With AppleCare One, customers in the UK can now enjoy the trusted protection of AppleCare+ in a way that’s simpler and more flexible than ever before — one plan, one price, and the peace of mind that comes with knowing all their eligible products can be covered.”

One Plan, Incredible Value

AppleCare One includes all the benefits of AppleCare+, including fast and unlimited repairs for accidental damage, battery replacement service, and 24/7 priority access to Apple experts. All repairs are performed using genuine Apple parts at Apple Store locations and the vast network of Apple Authorised Service Providers.

Customers can enroll their eligible Apple products in the plan for the same great price, meaning a customer protecting their iPhone, iPad, and Apple Watch together can save up to £11.48 per month compared to maintaining separate AppleCare+ with Theft and Loss plans for each device.

Protect Already-Owned Eligible Devices

AppleCare One gives customers greater flexibility to protect the devices they already have. Eligible products that are up to four years old can be added to a plan, provided they are in good condition, opening up coverage well beyond the current 60-day window to purchase AppleCare+.

Coverage That Evolves with Users

AppleCare One is built to keep pace with customers’ changing needs. When customers upgrade by trading in a covered product and purchasing a new product directly from Apple, the old product is automatically removed from the plan and replaced with the new device — so customers never have to think twice about staying protected. And as a monthly subscription, AppleCare One makes it simple to maintain coverage across as many products as customers want, for as long as they want, with the ability to add or remove devices from their plan at any time.

AppleCare+ Plans Add Theft and Loss Coverage for iPad and Apple Watch

Alongside the launch of AppleCare One, Apple is also bringing AppleCare+ with Theft and Loss to iPad and Apple Watch in the UK. The single-device plan option is now available for iPhone, iPad, and Apple Watch, protecting customers against up to two incidents of theft or loss per year on top of battery replacement service, priority support from Apple experts, and unlimited repairs for accidental damage.
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MacDailyNews Take: Learn more about AppleCare One and sign up by visiting apple.com/uk/applecare.


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The Crow Girl season 2 is the 'unhinged, wild and deadly' crime drama you need to stream on Paramount+ and Channel 5 this weekend — I still can't wrap my head around its shocking finale

Spoilers for The Crow Girl seasons 1 and 2 ahead.

It's no secret that we're beyond spoiled for choice when it comes to crime dramas, and that's just considering what's available to us on mainstream streaming services. But getting one that truly shakes us to the core is a lot rarer.

So when I stumbled across The Crow Girl season 1 on Paramount+, my mind was melted to mush by the time I got to the finale. In short, DCI Jeanette Kilburn (Eve Myles) and eminent psychotherapist Dr Sophia Craven (Katherine Kelly) join forces to hunt the killer of young men, but there's a lot more going on than meets the eye.

By the end of season 1, it was revealed that Victoria Burkeman, a prime suspect in the case, was actually Craven herself. She killed her father after he killed their daughter — meaning Victoria was sexually assaulted by her dad while her mum knew and did nothing to stop it.

It's heavy stuff, but I cannot stress enough how unexpectedly the reveal was, and how cleverly the clues were woven through the storyline.

18 months later and I'm pleased to say that The Crow Girl season 2, now on the streamer and Channel 5, doesn't disappoint... and that means a whole new level of shocking reveals.

The Crow Girl season 2 ending leaves Kilburn for dead, but Craven — now her lover — isn't responsible

It's important to remember that when we find out that Craven is actually Victoria, Kilburn is none the wiser. With the two women drawn to each other, a romantic connection sparks... secretly, seeing as Kilburn is technically cheating on her husband in the process.

Drama! Things get even worse in the finale, when the entire police station, which includes Kilburn's boss, finds out that she's been accidentally sleeping with the prime suspect in their murder case (the case itself hasn't changed since season 1).

Here's where the story gets more complicated. While we've known that Craven and Victoria are one, Craven apparently doesn't know herself. Kilburn explains that she's got DID (Dissociative Identity Disorder), meaning that Victoria is likely responsible for every murder they've investigated so far, including her own dad.

At this point, Kilburn is forced out of the station and threatened with questioning the next morning, but Craven is back at the manor she used to be abused in, unwilling for the party being thrown there to do any further damage to young girls.

Craven entices Kilburn there, and by the time she arrives, all of the guests are dead with the girls safely hidden. But as Victoria takes over Craven's mind, a surviving abuser shows up and shoots at the pair, hitting Kilburn in the leg. Don't panic though... after some further antagonizing, Craven pops one in his head. But will Kilburn pull through?

I genuinely don't see how The Crow Girl season 2 could be any more unhinged. If we're lucky, season 3 will be renewed, with the original book series telling us that Craven will learn how to "blend" her identities.

Sign me up, once I've got my head around what's just happened.

MacBook Air Flexgate Can Become a Costly Screen Failure

By: Jack
23 July 2026 at 20:21

MacBook Air Flexgate is an unofficial name increasingly used for screen problems that appear when the laptop lid reaches a particular angle. The display may flicker, lose its backlight, show colored lines or turn completely black even though the computer continues running.

The term can be misleading. The original Flexgate controversy involved certain 13-inch MacBook Pro models from 2016, not MacBook Air. Apple later created a display backlight service program for eligible MacBook Pro units after determining that a small percentage could develop uneven lighting or lose the backlight entirely.

No equivalent MacBook Air repair program currently appears among Apple active service programs. Individual Air models can still experience failures involving display cables, connectors, backlight components or the LCD panel, but that does not establish one confirmed defect affecting every generation.

Owners therefore need to identify the symptom before assuming the screen has the same problem associated with the earlier MacBook Pro.

MacBook Air Flexgate Is Not the Original Flexgate

MacBook Air Flexgate usually refers to damage or wear affecting the thin cables carrying display information and power between the computer body and the screen.

These cables must flex every time the lid opens or closes. When a cable, connector or bonded section begins failing, the problem may initially appear only at certain screen angles. Moving the lid can restore the image temporarily, followed by another blackout when the display opens farther.

The original MacBook Pro issue became associated with a short backlight cable integrated into the display assembly. Repeated movement could place stress on the cable, producing a stage-light effect along the bottom of the screen before the backlight eventually stopped working.

MacBook Air designs also use compact display connections routed through the hinge area, but the internal construction differs across generations. A cable-related Air failure should not automatically be treated as evidence that Apple reused the exact defective MacBook Pro component.

The distinction matters during repair. A technician may use “Flexgate” as convenient shorthand, while the written diagnosis may identify a damaged display cable, backlight circuit, panel connection or complete display assembly.

Customers should ask which component has failed and how the conclusion was reached rather than accepting the nickname as the diagnosis.

Two black ribbon cables with gold connectors on each end, positioned vertically side by side against a white background. Often associated with MacBook Air screen repairs and Flexgate issues, each cable has small white text and symbols near the bottom connectors.
Image Source: Google

Which MacBook Air Models Are Mentioned Most

Reports of angle-dependent MacBook Air display failures most commonly involve Retina models introduced from 2018 onward.

The 2018 and 2019 Intel MacBook Air share a thin Retina design with display connections running through the hinge area. The early 2020 Intel version and late 2020 M1 MacBook Air use closely related chassis designs, making symptoms across these machines look similar even when the failed component is not identical.

Owners describe displays that work when opened slightly but flicker, develop lines or turn black when moved toward a normal viewing position. Some units recover after the lid is partly closed, strongly suggesting a physical connection affected by movement.

The M1 MacBook Air receives particular attention because it sold in large numbers and remained available for several years. A greater number of public complaints does not necessarily mean it has a higher failure rate, but many of these computers are now old enough for wear, accidental pressure and repeated hinge movement to become relevant.

The redesigned M2 MacBook Air introduced in 2022 uses a different enclosure and display assembly. M3 and later versions continue that flatter design. Individual screen and cable failures can occur, but there is no established evidence of a single Flexgate defect covering those generations.

Older wedge-shaped MacBook Air models released before the 2018 Retina redesign can also develop display cable problems. They are not normally included in the Flexgate discussion because their screen architecture predates the MacBook Pro controversy and their failures follow different repair patterns.

The exact model can be checked through:

Apple menu > About This Mac

The model year and screen size are more useful than the date the Mac was purchased. Retailers may sell an earlier generation long after its original release.

How to Recognize a Display Cable Failure

A strong Flexgate-style symptom is a display that changes immediately when the lid moves.

The screen may operate normally below a particular angle, then flicker or disappear as it opens farther. Returning the lid to the previous position restores the picture without restarting the Mac.

Uneven illumination along the bottom edge can point toward a backlight connection. Several bright or dark patches resembling stage lights are especially associated with cable or backlight distribution problems.

A completely dark screen may still contain a faint image. Shining a flashlight toward the display in a dark room can sometimes reveal the desktop beneath the failed backlight. This test should be performed gently without pressing against the panel.

Colored vertical lines, black bands or duplicated images can involve the display data connection, but they may also indicate panel damage. Lines that remain unchanged at every lid angle are less characteristic of a flex-related failure.

Cracks do not always appear on the outer glass. Pressure from a webcam cover, keyboard protector, plug, pen or other object left between the keyboard and display can damage the internal LCD while leaving the surface relatively smooth.

Liquid exposure may create lines, discoloration or intermittent operation around the hinge and display connectors. In those cases, repeatedly opening the lid can spread contamination or worsen damaged connections.

An external monitor provides one of the most useful tests. When the external image remains normal while the built-in screen fails, the graphics processor is probably still generating the picture correctly. Attention then moves toward the internal display assembly, cable or connector.

A screenshot can provide another distinction. Capture the screen while the fault is visible, then inspect the file on another device or external monitor. When the screenshot looks normal, the problem is likely occurring after macOS generates the image.

MacBook Air M1

What Owners Should Do Before Paying for Repair

Back up the Mac as soon as an intermittent display problem begins. A screen that works at one angle today may become completely unusable after another cable movement.

Avoid repeatedly opening and closing the lid to demonstrate the fault. Each movement can place further stress on an already damaged connection.

Record a short video showing the display at different angles. Intermittent failures can disappear when a Mac reaches a repair counter, and clear documentation helps the technician reproduce the condition.

Apple Diagnostics may identify some hardware problems, although a clean result does not rule out a damaged display cable. Testing in macOS Recovery or during startup can help exclude an ordinary application problem.

Apple and authorized providers commonly replace the complete display assembly when the cable is integrated with the screen. That approach can make an out-of-warranty repair expensive even when the visible fault involves a small cable.

Independent repair specialists may offer component-level cable work for certain models. The quality and durability of those repairs vary considerably, and newer Air displays can require specialized equipment, adhesives and calibration.

Before authorizing work, request a written estimate identifying the model, suspected component, warranty on the repair and whether the replacement display is new, used, refurbished or genuine.

AppleCare+ may reduce the cost when coverage remains active, particularly if the screen shows accidental damage. Standard warranty coverage depends on the diagnosis and whether Apple determines that impact, liquid or external pressure caused the failure.

The current Apple service-program list should also be checked before paying. A MacBook Air display program could be introduced or changed later, while consumer-protection laws may provide additional rights in some countries even after the limited warranty ends.

Owners using the Mac with an external monitor can often continue working while evaluating repair options. FileVault credentials, backups and any essential recovery codes should be confirmed before service because a technician may need to erase, reset or retain the computer during inspection.

The post MacBook Air Flexgate Can Become a Costly Screen Failure appeared first on AppleMagazine.

OnePlus confirms shutdown in the US and Europe, ending months of speculation

16 July 2026 at 17:29

OnePlus arrived on the scene in 2014 with brash marketing and a compelling pitch: What if your phone was cheaper and faster? More than a decade later, the market is much different, and so is OnePlus. Confirming months of rumors and speculation, OnePlus has confirmed it's ending phone releases in North America and Europe.

This development has been expected for a while. After a brief period of expansion in the US through deals with T-Mobile and Verizon, OnePlus began visibly shifting its focus to India after the pandemic. OnePlus has also increasingly come under the control of its parent company, Oppo, aligning its device releases and software experience with the larger brand. Still, OnePlus has continued to launch flagship devices in the US and Europe, with the OnePlus 15 going on sale in late 2025. That will be the last OnePlus phone many people see, though.

OnePlus denied rumors of a shutdown earlier this year, but its language was vague and never promised future phone releases. The new statement is also worded gingerly, but the outcome is clear. "As part of the proactive global strategy adjustment, OnePlus has decided to conclude new product rollouts in Europe and North America," the official post reads.

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Apple wins dismissal of major lawsuit over child sexual abuse material on iCloud

14 July 2026 at 21:30

iCloud

In a significant victory for Apple, a U.S. federal judge has dismissed a proposed class-action lawsuit accusing the company of failing to prevent the spread of child sexual abuse material (CSAM) through its iCloud storage service. The ruling relies heavily on Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act, which shields online platforms from liability for user-generated content.

U.S. District Judge Noël Wise in San Jose, California, issued the decision late Monday, agreeing with Apple’s position that it is immune from the claims. The plaintiffs alleged that Apple did not take sufficient action to stop images of their childhood sexual abuse from being stored and shared on iCloud.

Key Details from the Case

The lawsuit, filed in 2024 by two plaintiffs using the pseudonyms Amy and Jessica, represented a class of 2,680 individuals with similar claims. It sought up to $32.8 billion in compensatory damages and a court order requiring changes to iCloud.

Judge Wise ruled that the claims treated Apple as an online publisher responsible for user content, placing them squarely under Section 230 protections. She emphasized, “Nothing in federal law requires Apple to proactively utilize available technology or develop new technology to identify and report child sexual abuse material on its cloud platform.”

In a notable statement, the judge added, “Lawmakers can fix this problem that is contributing to the exploitation of children. This Court cannot.”

The case was dismissed with prejudice, meaning the plaintiffs cannot refile it.

Background and Apple’s Position

The suit claimed Apple knew about CSAM issues on iCloud, but chose not to deploy available detection tools. It referenced Apple’s 2021 announcement of the NeuralHash program for identifying such material, which was later abandoned in favor of end-to-end encryption—making detection more difficult. Apple has maintained that it has worked diligently to combat CSAM while prioritizing user privacy and security.

James Marsh, an attorney for the plaintiffs, said they are considering an appeal and exploring other legal avenues. He noted, “While the plaintiffs disagree with the judge’s conclusion on the law, we agree with her conclusion that Congress should do more to protect children online and address the skyrocketing harms from online exploitation.”

Apple did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

Broader Context

This ruling highlights ongoing debates over Section 230 and tech companies’ responsibilities regarding harmful content. Apple faces a similar lawsuit from West Virginia’s attorney general, described as the first of its kind by a government agency targeting iCloud’s role in CSAM distribution.

MacDailyNews Take: For those unfamiliar with the NeuralHash debacle, over which we were vehemently opposed, more here.


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The post Apple wins dismissal of major lawsuit over child sexual abuse material on iCloud appeared first on MacDailyNews.

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