Boardroom priorities are shifting from financial metrics toward technical oversight. Although market share and operational efficiency remain business bedrocks, executives also must now manage the complexities of machine learning, the integrity of their data systems, and the risks of algorithmic bias.
The change represents more than just a tech update; it marks a fundamental redefinition of the skills required for business leadership.
Research from the McKinsey Global Institute on the economic impact of artificial intelligence shows that companies integrating it effectively have boosted profit margins by up to 15 percent. Yet the same study revealed a sobering reality: 87 percent of organizations acknowledge significant AI skill gaps in their leadership ranks.
That disconnect between AI’s business potential and executive readiness has created a need for a new type of professional education.
Traditional business education, with its focus on finance, marketing, and operations, wasn’t designed for an AI-driven economy. Today’s leaders need to understand not just what AI can do but also how to evaluate investments in the technology, manage algorithmic risks, and lead teams through digital transformations.
Rather than treating AI as a separate technical subject, the program incorporates it into each aspect of business strategy. Students learn to evaluate AI opportunities through financial modeling, assess algorithmic risks through governance frameworks, and use change-management principles to implement new technologies.
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A curriculum built for real-world impact
The program’s modular structure lets professionals focus on areas relevant to their immediate needs while building toward comprehensive AI business literacy. Each of the 10 modules includes practical exercises and case study analyses that participants can immediately apply in their organization.
The Introduction to AI module provides a comprehensive overview of the technology’s capabilities, benefits, and challenges. Other technologies are covered as well, including how they can be applied across diverse business contexts, laying the groundwork for informed decision‑making and strategic adoption.
Rather than treating AI as a separate technical subject, the online mini-MBA program incorporates the technology throughout each aspect of business strategy.
Building on that foundation, the Data Analytics module highlights how AI projects differ from traditional programming, how to assess data readiness, and how to optimize data to improve accuracy and outcomes. The module can equip leaders to evaluate whether their organization is prepared to launch successful AI initiatives.
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The Process Optimization module focuses on reimagining core organizational workflows using AI. Students learn how machine learning and automation are already transforming industries such as manufacturing, distribution, transportation, and health care. They also learn how to identify critical processes, create AI road maps, establish pilot programs, and prepare their organization for change.
Industry-specific applications
The core modules are designed for all participants, and the program highlights how AI is applied across industries. By analyzing case studies in fraud detection, medical diagnostics, and predictive maintenance, participants see underlying principles in action.
Participants gain a broader perspective on how AI can be adapted to different contexts so they can draw connections to the opportunities and challenges in their organization. The approach ensures everyone comes away with a strong foundation and the ability to apply learned lessons to their environment.
Flexible learning for busy professionals
With the understanding that senior professionals have demanding schedules, the mini-MBA program offers flexibility. The online format lets participants engage with content in their own time frame, while live virtual office hours with faculty provide opportunities for real-time interaction.
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The program, which offers discounts to IEEE members and flexible payment options, qualifies for many tuition reimbursement programs.
Graduates report that implementing AI strategies developed during the program has helped drive tangible business results. This success often translates into career advancement, including promotions and expanded leadership roles. Furthermore, the curriculum empowers graduates to confidently vet AI vendor proposals, lead AI project teams, and navigate high-stakes investment decisions.
Beyond curriculum content, the mini MBA can create valuable professional networks among AI-forward business leaders. Participants collaborate on projects, share implementation experiences, and build relationships that extend beyond the program’s 12 weeks.
The programs grant professional development credits including PDHs and CEUs, ensuring participants receive formal recognition for their educational investments. Digital badges provide shareable credentials that professionals can showcase across professional networks, demonstrating their AI competencies to current and prospective employers.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) warns that criminals are impersonating U.S. officials in phishing attacks targeting businesses and individuals who request city and county planning and zoning permits.
In a public service announcement published on Monday, the bureau said that the criminals behind this campaign are identifying potential victims using publicly available information, which also makes their malicious messages seem legitimate and helps them trick suspicious targets.
“Individuals and businesses with active applications for land-use permits are being targeted by criminals impersonating city and county planning and zoning board officials, fraudulently requesting fees associated with these permits,” the FBI warned.
“Victims receive unsolicited emails citing their permit information, zoning application numbers, and/or property addresses. Victims are instructed to pay invoices for fees related to their permits and directed to make payments via wire transfer, peer-to-peer payment, or cryptocurrency.”
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The FBI says there are several common indicators that can help detect such schemes, including messages sent from non-governmental domains (such as @usa.com), attachments that ask recipients to request more details via email, and various tactics to push for quicker payments to avoid permit delays.
Scammers may also time their phishing messages to match the timing of official communications with details about zoning permits.
The law enforcement agency advised businesses and individuals to carefully check whether messages they receive from U.S. officials are legitimate by verifying the domain and email address and calling the city or county government to confirm outstanding fees.
Those who were targeted or fell victim to this scam should file a complaint with the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) and share the email address, date of email, and/or phone number used by the scammers, the date of the project’s scheduled hearing, the amount listed in the fraudulent invoice, as well as any other financial information provided by the criminals.
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Four years ago, the FBI also warned of widespread attacks in which scammers impersonated government or law enforcement officials by spoofing authentic phone numbers to extort money from potential victims or steal their personally identifiable information.
In April 2025, the bureau said that criminals were also impersonating FBI IC3 employees, while offering to “help” fraud victims recover money lost to other scammers.
Living in the digital age often feels like a double-edged sword. We can connect with virtually anyone, anywhere, at any time. You can chat with a peer in a different time zone, order flowers from the shop across town, and post those cute new pictures of your kids, all in a matter of minutes and from the handy little device you carry around in your pocket. Modern technology allows us to share our lives in ways many of us never imagined even 20 years ago, but there’s also a dark side to digital life. The modern age has made it much easier for scammers to target anyone with even a hint of a digital footprint.
Scams are a timeless crime, far predating the age of FBI alerts. Insurance scams have been around for centuries, but today we’re more worried about phishing scams and deceptive websites. In February 2026, the FBI issued a warning to the public about an emerging, malicious plot that can potentially target anyone who posts photos online. Criminals are finding those photos of your loved ones, be it your children, parents, significant other, or friends, and using them to create fake proof-of-life photos. They’ll then send you these photos to try to fool you into believing that this person has been kidnapped and demand a ransom payment. When presented with a frightening photo of someone we love, many of us may immediately pay up — here’s what to do instead.
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A vicious scam
sulit.photos/Shutterstock
It’s easy to hang up the phone on a would-be scammer that’s talking about your car’s extended warranty and set up your phone to block potential scam calls, but this scam plays deep into fears of our loved one’s safety. After obtaining one of your photos, a scammer may contact you via text message claiming that they’ve kidnapped them and demanding a ransom payment. The text may be violent and will often be timed so that you don’t have long to examine the image before it disappears.
If you receive a text or email similar to this, don’t panic. Take a screenshot of the message if possible and immediately get in touch with the loved one that is pictured to ensure they are safe. You should also closely examine the photo for accuracy — these photos have been manipulated and may have altered or missing physical features or proportions that just look off. If a friend or family member is actually missing, know that posting information online will likely lead scammers to your doorstep.
If you’re concerned about falling victim to this scam, the FBI recommends that you set up a code word with your loved ones that only you know to ensure reliable communication. Also, be sure to report any scam to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center, even if you don’t fall for it. Include any information that you have, such as phone numbers, photos, and payment information.
A homemade pulse jet engine now powers a winter machine that redefines what is possible on frozen lakes. Zach of Build N Pulsejets had a simple idea, and that was to attach his new 180-pound-thrust propane pulse jet to a child’s kick scooter for high-speed fun on dirt roads. Winter arrived in Michigan far earlier than expected, and before you knew it, he was knee-deep in snow and ice. Zach decided to adjust his plans, and now he has a pulse-jet bike that he enjoys riding across snowy surfaces, turning cabin fever into high-speed thrills.
First, he had to disassemble the scooter, starting with the wheels and then moving on to the fenders, which he removed with his trusty angle grinder. Three snowmobile skis were swapped out for carbide runners with plenty of ice grip, one in front and two in back, forming a stable trike layout. Then he began welding brackets to hold all of this gear in place while keeping the skis and motor steady. The pulse jet, a valveless design with an augmenter, is situated on the side to protect the rider from the flames. A forklift propane tank provides him with enough fuel to keep the machine going for an extended period of time, which is a significant advantage, but it also adds some weight.
Speed & Range: Experience exhilarating rides with the Ninebot S2’s impressive top speed of 11.2 mph and range of 21.7 miles.
Beginner-Friendly: Perfect for riders aged 16-50, the Segway S2 features a user-friendly learning mode, providing a smooth and gradual introduction.
Adjustable & Supportive: Enjoy a customized fit tailored to your needs, as the Segway S2 accommodates heights ranging from 4’3″ to 6’6″ and supports…
Controlling this beast was a key part of this build, so he took extra time to do it right. The twist-grip throttle connects to a ball valve for extremely accurate fuel flow. He constructed some handmade foot pegs out of bar stock and added additional grip for good measure. To keep from bouncing off the seat, he just bolted in a salvaged one. He also gave some serious thought to the brakes, as a simple stomp brake would be insufficient on ice surfaces. Well, it’s a start, and he’s already thinking about ways to sharpen the serrations to make it more useful.
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The first test run took place on a tiny pond, and before you knew it, the engine was roaring to life, its loud, rhythmic buzz booming out. The flames from the pulse jet flared crimson as it kicked in and began propelling the tricycle ahead. It moved okay, but the handling felt a little loose, owing to the fact that the runners had not yet been properly sharpened.
Speeds reached up to 30 mph in short bursts, yet the frame continued to bounce around the uneven ice. To be honest, the heat was getting to the augmenter, which was beginning to sag under its own weight and showing signs of thermal stress. The next step was a longer test run on a Michigan lake’s snowmobile drag strip. What about the acceleration? Let’s just say it was a bit of a battle, since the combined weight of the rider, the big tank, and the engine made it difficult to move forward from a stop, even on super-low friction ice. But once it started moving… well, the momentum simply kept growing.
The trike reached speeds of more than 44 mph (77 km/h), and the sound of the engine resonated across the ice plain as onlookers watched. The good news was that it remained steady even over ruts, despite the lack of suspension. Zach claims that the entire construction was a result of the lengthy winter that the northerners were forced to endure, a means to expend energy when the snow would otherwise lock everything down. The initiative has already provided exactly what he required. Some changes are already in the works, such as sharper carbide edges on the skis, a polished brake surface, and possibly a new coat of paint. [Source]
Sony could be experimenting with dynamic pricing on the PlayStation Store, according to data spotted by price-tracking site PSPrices.
The platform has noticed that some users are being offered different prices for the same games, suggesting that Sony may be quietly testing a new pricing strategy.
The discovery comes from PlayStation Store data tied to Sony’s public API. In this data, experiment identifiers such as IPT_PILOT and IPT_OPR_TESTING appear alongside certain game listings. Additionally, according to PSPrices, these markers suggest that Sony is running A/B tests on pricing across more than 150 games in 68 regions.
Interestingly, the United States doesn’t appear to be part of the experiment for now. And rather than raising prices, the test currently seems to focus on selective discounts. Meanwhile, some users have reportedly seen price cuts ranging from 5% to 17.5% on major titles. These include Marvel’s Spider-Man 2, God of War, and Red Dead Redemption 2.
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Dynamic pricing itself isn’t unusual in other industries. Airlines, hotels and online retailers often adjust prices based on demand, location or user behaviour. However, it’s far less common in digital game storefronts. Most players expect everyone to see the same price for the same title in these stores.
That’s why even a discount-focused test could prove controversial. If one player is offered 10% off a game like Sid Meier’s Civilization VII while another sees a much bigger discount, it could quickly raise questions about fairness.
For now, it’s unclear how long the experiment has been running or whether Sony plans to expand it further. The company hasn’t publicly acknowledged the tests, and Sony has yet to respond to requests for comment.
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Still, if the data is accurate, the PlayStation Store could be exploring a pricing model that’s far more personalised than what gamers are used to. As a result, this could fundamentally change how digital games are sold in the future.
To keep, Live Nation is going to have to make some major changes. As first reported by, Live Nation reached a settlement with the Department of Justice in its antitrust case that accused the live entertainment giant of monopolistic practices. Live Nation will reportedly pay at least $200 million in damages to states that were part of the in May 2024, but avoid selling off Ticketmaster.
Live Nation will also be required to make a few changes to its business practices. According to NBC News, Ticketmaster, a subsidiary of Live Nation, will be required to create a “standalone ticketing system” that allows third-party competitors like SeatGeek and Eventbrite to sell tickets on.
The settlement aims to loosen some of Live Nation’s control over venues as well. According to NBC News, the company will have to divest up to 13 amphitheaters and be prohibited from retaliating against venues that choose another ticket seller over Ticketmaster.
The settlement comes less than a week after the case went to trial. While the matter may be concluded with the Justice Department, many of the states’ attorneys general who were part of the lawsuit will be continuing their legal action separately.
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“The settlement recently announced with the U.S. Department of Justice fails to address the monopoly at the center of this case and would benefit Live Nation at the expense of consumers,” New York State Attorney General Letitia James wrote in a press release. “We will continue our lawsuit to protect consumers and restore fair competition to the live entertainment industry.” 26 other attorneys general signed onto continuing the lawsuit with James.
The 2026 TV market is already shaping up to be one of the most turbulent in years, with major brands reshuffling strategies, manufacturing partners, and display technologies. Into that environment steps Hisense, which has begun rolling out its 2026 U6 and U7 ULED MiniLED 4K TV series, available in screen sizes ranging from 55 to 116 inches.
The new U6 and U7 Series ULED MiniLED TVs represent Hisense’s latest push in the highly competitive midrange LCD category. As the world’s third largest TV shipper behind Samsung and TCL, the company is aggressively expanding its ULED MiniLED platform while also investing in emerging RGB MiniLED display technology.
Samsung is making a similar move in the premium LCD space with its own RGB MicroLED/MiniLED hybrid approaches, signaling that the next phase of the TV technology war will revolve around brighter LCD panels with more precise color control rather than traditional white LED backlighting.
Against that backdrop, the U7 Series leads Hisense’s 2026 ULEDLCD MiniLED rollout and is available now, while the U6 Series is expected to reach retailers in the coming weeks. Together, the two lineups form the backbone of Hisense’s midrange TV strategy for 2026, targeting buyers who want MiniLED performance, high brightness, and large screen sizes without stepping into flagship price territory.
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With the 2026 FIFA World Cup set to take place in the United States, Hisense says its U7 and U6 ULED MiniLED TV lineup is designed to give fans and families a larger, brighter way to experience the tournament together, with screen sizes and pricing aimed at a wide range of households.
The U6 and U7 Series represent Hisense’s performance to value sweet spot within the company’s TV portfolio. Above them, Hisense plans to introduce its RGB MiniLED Series, which will serve as the brand’s ultra premium tier and incorporate new display technologies designed to improve brightness, color precision, and backlight control beyond the current ULED category.
For 2026, Hisense is expanding the U6 and U7 MiniLED portfolios with more screen sizes and configurations, giving buyers additional options for building large screen setups across a variety of living spaces and budgets.
“The data’s clear, people are gravitating toward larger screens and they’re using them to bring people together,” said James Fishler, Chief Commercial Officer at Hisense. “We’re focused on making sure the features that define the viewing experience, the size, the performance, the technology, are accessible across the board, not just at the high end. That’s what this lineup delivers.”
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U7 Series
An important part of Hisense’s 2026 FIFA World Cup portfolio, the U7 (U7SG) is designed to elevate match day viewing by capturing fast paced action, vivid color, and crowd level atmosphere with the clarity and scale needed to make every goal, rivalry, and defining moment feel larger than life.
Available in screen sizes from 55 to 116 inches, the U7SG is built to fit a wide range of households, with a focus on turning major sporting events and big screen entertainment into a more cinematic experience at home.
Key Features of the U7 Series
Precision Backlight: Hisense uses thousands of MiniLED lighting elements to deliver precise backlight control and more lifelike images. Powered by Hi QLED MiniLED Pro with Full Array Local Dimming and the Hi View AI Engine Pro, the U7 is designed to maintain strong contrast and clarity across live sports, movies, and everyday content. The U7 Series supports up to 3,000 nits of peak brightness.
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No Blur: The U7 incorporates advanced motion technology for high speed gaming, sports, and action films. A native 165Hz refresh rate combined with intelligent motion processing helps reduce blur, lag, and smeared frames, delivering smoother performance during fast paced gameplay and major sporting events.
Smart TV: The U7 Series offers Google TV (U7SG) and Fire TV (U7SF) operating systems at varying retailers, giving consumers the flexibility to choose the smart platform that best aligns with their connected home ecosystem.
(100 and 116-in) RCA Composite Video Input (3 in 1 A/V Jack)
Outputs
Digital Audio Output (Optical)
Additional Features
Noise Reduction
Parental Control
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Closed Caption
Sleep Timer
Mounting Options
VESA (Wall Mounting)
Dual Position Stand
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Dual Position Legs (100 and 116-inch)
Included Accessories
Backlit Voice Remote with G-Sensor and Batteries
Quick Start Guide and/or User Manual
Power Cable
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U6 Series
Led by the U6SF Pro, the U6 Series continues Hisense’s push to bring advanced display technology to more households. Designed around the features consumers value most, the U6SF Pro offers an easier entry point into MiniLED performance without stepping into higher priced tiers. Within the lineup, the U6 Series sits just below the U7, offering many of the same core technologies at a more accessible price.
Hisense is also introducing an additional MiniLED model, the U6SF, giving buyers another affordable path into MiniLED technology across a wider range of screen sizes and budgets.
The U6 Series will be available in screen sizes from 55 to 100 inches.
Hisense U6 Series Features
Hi QLED MiniLED: With Full Array Local Dimming and Quantum Dot color, the U6 is designed to deliver brighter highlights, deeper contrast, and more lifelike color across streaming, sports, and everyday content.
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AI Picture: Built in AI processing helps reduce the need for manual picture adjustments. The U6 Series can automatically fine tune picture performance based on the type of content being viewed.
Smart TV: The U6 Series runs on the Amazon Fire TV platform, providing access to major streaming services, apps, and voice control features.
Sound: Built in TV speakers rarely deliver a satisfying listening experience, so the U6 Series includes an integrated subwoofer designed to add more depth and impact without requiring external speakers or additional wiring. The set also supports Dolby Atmos audio processing.
Detailed specifications and pricing for the U6 and U6 Pro Series have not yet been released. According to Hisense, the lineup is expected to arrive at retailers later in Spring 2026.
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Pro Tip: Once full details for the U6 and U6 Pro models are announced, we will expand the feature overview and update our specifications table accordingly.
The Bottom Line
With the U7 and U6 Series, Hisense continues to target one of the most competitive areas of the TV market: buyers who want big screens, high brightness, and modern display technology without paying flagship prices. By combining MiniLED backlighting, Quantum Dot color, peak brightness up to 3,000 nits, a 165Hz refresh rate, and screen sizes from 55 to 116 inches, the U7 lineup delivers a feature set that is clearly aimed at sports fans, gamers, and anyone building a large screen home entertainment setup.
The U6 Series sits just below it as a more affordable entry point into MiniLED performance, making it appealing to households that want better contrast and brightness than traditional LED TVs but are not ready to move into higher priced premium models.
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What makes the lineup stand out is the combination of very large screen sizes, high brightness, and aggressive pricing, a formula that has helped Hisense close the technology and market share gap with Samsung and compete directly with TCL in the midrange performance category. If the final pricing lands where previous Hisense models have, the U7 and U6 Series could once again be among the most compelling big screen TV options heading into 2026.
Availability & Pricing
The 2026 Hisense ULED MiniLED lineup will be available at major retail partners, with select models, sizes, and smart TV platforms varying by retailer.
The U7 series is available now, starting at $1,299 MSRP via Best Buy, with an iteration coming to Amazon soon.
From Hisense: The U6 series will begin rolling out later in Spring 2026.
Microsoft may finally be bringing back a small but highly requested customisation feature in Windows 11.
New preview builds suggest that users will soon be able to remove unwanted toggles from the Quick Settings menu, giving more control over what appears in the system tray panel.
Early versions of Windows 11 moved away from the customisable quick action tiles seen in Windows 10. Instead of choosing which shortcuts appeared in the control centre, users were given a scrollable list of every available toggle.
These covered things like Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Aeroplane Mode and Night Light. While the layout could be rearranged, there was no option to remove controls entirely, something many users quickly complained about.
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That could be about to change. Hidden features in Windows 11 preview build 26300.7965, spotted by Windows watcher @phantomofearth on X, hint at a new system. This system allows certain quick actions to be removed from the panel. The feature isn’t fully functional yet, but its presence suggests Microsoft is testing a return to more flexible customisation.
The preview build also introduces a new Energy Saver submenu within Quick Settings. Instead of a single toggle, the option now includes a small arrow that opens a list of battery-saving tools. These include shortcuts for Dark Mode, Eco Brightness, Power Mode, and Screen Contrast. All of these are designed to help extend battery life on laptops and other portable devices.
Some parts of the new menu already appear to work properly on devices with a battery. However, others including the ability to remove certain toggles are still incomplete. It’s likely Microsoft will refine the feature in upcoming preview builds before rolling it out more widely.
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This wouldn’t be the only recent improvement to the system tray area. Microsoft has also been testing a shared audio indicator for quickly jumping into audio sharing controls, along with separate volume sliders for each connected device.
If the new Quick Settings editing tools make it to the final release, they could restore a level of customisation, something Windows users have been asking for since the operating system first launched.
iPadOS is versatile but lacks some advantages of MacOS
I think, after a weekend using the latest iPad Air, that this is the best iPad right now for its price. But it might not be by the end of the year.
I’ve always recommended cheaper iPads. As I said in a recent story, I expected the base iPad would get an upgrade this spring. So did others. It didn’t happen. Meanwhile, the iPad Air got a chip bump to an M4 processor and updated wireless specs. I’ve been living with the 11-inch model as my everyday home-casual computer for the past week, and it’s a wonderful little powerhouse. I don’t miss the more expensive iPad Pro at all.
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The iPad Air doesn’t come with a keyboard case and Pencil Pro in the box, but that’s almost entirely how I’ve been using it.
Scott Stein/CNET
I could say I want the iPad to be even more like a Mac, but I’ve come to accept that moment just isn’t happening now. Judged as an iPad, and by what it does, it’s still great. It’s just that now you have to make a bit of a lifestyle choice.
The funny thing is that, while this iPad Air starts at $599, which is $250 more than the entry iPad, it’s also exactly the same price as the MacBook Neo, Apple’s new entry-level MacBook. Apples and oranges, so to speak, but which should you get?
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Oceanhorn 3 is one of the newest games on Apple Arcade. The iPad Air’s M4 has no lack of graphics power for its size.
Scott Stein/CNET
The iPad Air’s processor is a powerhouse. The M4, in a $600 device, is a fantastic value. But you’ll have to get the keyboard case, or any other case, and the Pencil Pro that works with this iPad separately. That could realistically bump the total to nearly $1,000. If you care about getting those things.
What I love about the iPad, and always have, is how instant and casual it feels. I love the focus of full-screen apps, I love how it handles media and games. I also love the Magic Keyboard case, even though it’s expensive and doesn’t fold back easily. iPadOS 26 has also flexed the iPad out enough to give it a Mac-esque sense of versatility. Not a Mac, but approaching one.
And I also love its size. The MacBook Neo is a bigger laptop, a standard sort of 13-incher. The 11-inch iPads feel compact and cozy and perfect for a quick commute or a little work while traveling. I love the intimacy. The 13-inch models have a lot more screen room, but cost more and have a taller aspect ratio than laptops that I’m not wild about personally.
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The 11-inch iPad Air is my preferred size.
Scott Stein/CNET
Compared with the iPad Pro, the Air is a much better buy
If you’re comparing it with the iPad Pro, this Air’s M4 for $599 is a much better deal than the Pro’s M5 for $999, in my opinion. And now that the entry iPad still hasn’t been updated, and still doesn’t support Apple Intelligence, the Air makes more sense to me as a future-proof upgrade.
That could change in the fall, if Apple does release a chip-bumped entry iPad that runs Apple Intelligence. Which is why I say this is the best “for now.” But that “for now” could be for half a year…or even longer.
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I never felt Apple Intelligence was a big deal, at least in its current form. That’s likely to change soon, though. Apple’s plans to fold Google Gemini into Apple Intelligence could mean onboard AI coming this year that ups what all Apple products can do. I’d assume you’d want an iPad that’s ready for whatever comes, and this Air is more than ready for it.
I don’t draw much. But if you do, you’ll want an iPad Air or better.
Scott Stein/CNET
Performance: Overkill or ideal?
One thing, though: This M4 is almost too much for most people. Consider the MacBook Neo is running MacOS on an A18 iPhone chip. The iPad Air, which feels like a more “casual” computer, outmuscles it. For graphics work or photo editing, or creating things like music, that’ll be a huge help. It depends on whether your workflow demands it.
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I’ve been living with the iPad Air for whatever I’d normally do: taking work meetings on video, watching movies, playing Settlers of Catan, news, Slack, writing this review and playing with a bunch of apps at once. I even filed a story completely from it. It’s easygoing and versatile. Battery life is hard to judge early on, but it seems to be fine. iPads no longer outlast MacBooks, but it’s good enough to handle a good chunk of the day. Early on, though, I’m finding I need a midday recharge.
Performance-wise, the benchmarks for the M4 chip on the $1249 cellular-enabled 1TB iPad Air M4 I’m reviewing match the M4 iPad Pro from 2024. It’s a fantastic processor, even if it’s technically a step behind M5. It doesn’t matter on iPadOS, though, not for me. For what I use it for, it’s far, far beyond my needs. It’s considerably faster than my everyday M2 MacBook Air I use at home for everything. But, as you can see from that sticker price at this tier, when you’re all the way up at $1,249, you’d expect some serious performance. iPadOS is still not as flexible for me as MacOS, though, so that level of power does have limits unless you’re in some serious graphics-heavy apps.
This Air’s internals don’t have a ton of upgrades, but better wireless is appreciated (even if I’m not really taking advantage of it). The Air’s Wi-Fi 7 compatible now, and a new C1X modem inside promises better 5G performance if you get the cellular model (an extra $150). I’m testing that part soon.
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It might be the same price as a MacBook Neo, but the iPad Air doesn’t come standard with the Magic Keyboard Case or Pencil Pro. Add those, and you’re going to spend about $1,000 at least.
Scott Stein/CNET
iPads aren’t Macs
I’ll say it again: The iPad is a polished, successful product, and Apple is slowly evolving it by degrees. I think the hardware’s clearly there to turn keyboard-equipped iPads into Macs, and that may very well happen someday. For now, consider the iPad a surprisingly versatile device that’s still its own thing, distinct from Macs. And for me, it’s also a better travel device, art tool and casual home/media computer. And the iPad 11-inch with keyboard is the smallest travel Apple computer that exists.
Just keep in mind that iPads aren’t the cheap laptop doorway anymore. The MacBook Neo serves that purpose, and for its all-in price with keyboard attached, it’s the clear proposition for that. Even if, well, I’d say iPad Air surpasses it on hardware power. But the Air’s keyboard costs extra.
I’d get an Air over a Pro for its price. And I’d also get an Air over an entry iPad, too. But come this fall, if there’s a new entry-level iPad, my opinions will likely change. Are you OK with that, or would you rather wait? Apple doesn’t make it easy with iPad upgrades. It never has.
Data from Balance for Better Business has highlighted the issues women face in furthering their careers.
Balance for Better Business, the independent business-led review group established by the Government, has released the findings of a report exploring the positioning of women on the boards of Ireland’s largest companies.
Coinciding with International Women’s day this past Sunday (8 March), Balance for Better Businesses’ data shows that the proportion of women represented on the boards of ISEQ20 companies has remained steady at 40pc, though this has fallen slightly from previous figures of 42pc.
The data analysed the composition of board and leadership teams across publicly listed companies in Ireland throughout March 2025, indicating that Ireland now ranks 6th in the EU for female board representation. This represents a major shift from its position at 16th in 2018, although it held 5th position in November 2025.
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On Ireland’s leadership teams at listed companies, the representation of women stands at 26pc, performing relatively well against its peers. Despite the positive trend, the report found however, that more needs to be done to accelerate the pace of progress.
Balance for Better Businesses’ Data showed that the gap between executive and non-executive director representation indicates a growing pipeline challenge. Female non-executive director representation remains strong at 48pc and executive director representation continues to fall, dropping by 3 percentage points to 8pc since November.
Challenges persist in building a strong pipeline of women to assume key leadership positions, with only 70pc of publicly listed companies having three or more women on their boards and only 45pc of ISEQ20 companies having 3 or more women on their leadership teams.
Commenting on the findings of the report, the Balance for Better Business co-chair Carol Andrews said: “It’s clear from our findings that Irish businesses continue to maintain and sustain progress on gender balance at board level. Climbing from 16th to 6th place in the EU for women on boards marks a major shift over the past number of years, and this progress is to be commended.
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“However, the pace of change across the business landscape remains uneven. Gender balance should be a strategic imperative for every organisation, whatever their size or industry. I’d encourage every organisation to explore our roadmap for the key steps to accelerate the pace of progress on their journey.”
A Minister of State at the Department of Enterprise, Tourism and Employment Niamh Smyth, TD, added, “The data published by Balance for Better Business today, reflects continued progress by Irish businesses on their gender balance journey. To maintain this momentum, it’s crucial that all organisations make gender balance a core business priority.
“When gender balance is prioritised at the top, it accelerates change throughout organisations for the better. By setting clear targets, appointing more female independent directors, and embedding accountability, Irish leaders can continue their journey towards achieving a more inclusive, resilient, and high-performing future for Irish business.”
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In February, Valve published its first hardware-related post since announcing the Steam Machine, Steam Frame, and Steam Controller 2 last year. The devices were supposed to launch before the end of March, but Valve extended the window to the first half of 2026. Read Entire Article Source link
