Photo credit: Jace LeRoy Denis Aminev, a Russian photographer, has spent years attempting to recreate the look of those magical film days that digital photography couldn’t quite replicate. It all started with movies shot on film, and how the stretched aspect ratio immediately draws your attention to them. Standard lenses and anamorphic adapters fell short, so he turned to something more direct: building his own camera from scratch.
Aminev began experimenting with pinhole cameras in early 2024, hoping to capture even just a respectable image. Not only was he able to capture that shot, but he also demonstrated how amazing the outcome could be with the correct instruments. Emboldened by his accomplishment, he set out to create a completely functional prototype camera by sifting through old cameras and replacing the parts with printed ones. It took him a few months to get the initial version operating, but once he did, things took off from there. By August 2024, he had versions 4 and 5 of the camera, which had all of the details locked in.
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All of these modifications lead him to build the Infidex 176 V, a name that accurately describes the camera’s infinite focus and double exposure capacity. It’s also quite neat because it’s all designed to be manufactured using a standard FDM printer and some PLA or similar material, so no fancy equipment is required. After you’ve printed all of the components, all you have to do is glue them together, add a few clamps, and some hardware such as brass inserts, wire springs, and hinges, and you’re ready to go.
Loading the film is simple because 35mm film is still available at most camera stores. Each roll contains 36 exposures, or approximately 19 of those super-wide panoramic shots (72 by 24mm). That’s a really extreme aspect ratio, around 1:2.7 or even 3:1. The lenses are quite easy to replace, and most people simply use an 80mm f/2.8 from a Mamiya C330, but he has used various lenses in prior iterations, such as Lomo Lubitel components. To focus, simply crank the lens, which has a typical helicoid mount that allows you to focus from infinity or up close.
As you might expect, following the instructions is simple: double-check the dimensions to ensure they’re correct, then sand or file each piece to smooth out any bumps from the supports, and that’s it. Aminev has also come up with some clever light trap solutions to prevent stray light from interfering with the illusion. Even with bad film, the visuals appear amazingly sharp.
Jace LeRoy, a photographer who knew Aminev online, was among the first to discover the project. Jace was one of the guys who actually built one of the cameras, and when he saw the results of the test film, he thought, “Yeah right,” but when the visuals showed as clear as a bell, he was pleasantly surprised. He tested it with a range of films, including some rather simple ones like Kodak Gold 200, Portra 160, CineStill 800T, and Kentmere 400, and the results were consistent each time. He emphasized that some lenses may produce vignetting, but the overall image quality is well worth the trade-off. [Source]
Anthropic said the expansion reflects Ireland’s growing position as a hub for AI adoption.
Artificial intelligence (AI) safety and research company Anthropic today (13 March) announced plans to create 200 new jobs by 2027 amid the expansion of its Dublin operations into a new, larger premises. The new roles will be in engineering, sales, finance, legal and compliance, and operations.
Anthropic stated that the expansion is in response to “strong enterprise demand in Europe”, as regional revenue has grown 11-fold year on year, driven by enterprises, digital-native businesses and start-ups that are building with Claude.
The organisation also suggested that the expansion is a reflection of Ireland’s growing position as a hub for AI adoption.
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Commenting on the jobs announcement, Daniela Amodei, the president and co-founder of Anthropic, said: “We’re expanding our Irish operations to meet strong enterprise demand across Europe. What we hear consistently from Europe’s largest businesses is that they want AI they can trust, systems that are safe, reliable and built with their interests in mind.
“That’s exactly what Anthropic exists to provide and Dublin is the ideal base to deliver it. The talent here is exceptional and we’re proud to be deepening our commitment to Ireland at this pivotal moment for AI adoption in Europe.”
Irish businesses currently utilising Anthropic’s Claude technology include Wayflyer, Tines and Manna. Claude is also used by students here; Zerostrike, a start-up established by three Trinity College Dublin students and one Dublin City University alumnus, recently won first place at HackEurope – a major European coding competition – with a Claude-based project on wildfire prevention.
On the jobs announcement, Taoiseach Micheál Martin, TD said: “Anthropic’s major expansion in Ireland is a strong vote of confidence in our thriving technology ecosystem and our position as a global hub for AI innovation, supported by world-class research, a highly skilled workforce and a pro-innovation policy environment.
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“Our recently launched digital and AI strategy – Digital Ireland: Connecting our People, Securing our Future – sets out the Government’s strong ambition to ensure the economy reaps the benefits of digital and AI for growth and competitiveness, to enhance our public services as well as to empower our people to thrive in a digital society.”
Tech giant Microsoft recently announced plans to launch Copilot Cowork, which is a tool based on Anthropic’s popular Claude Cowork. Reportedly, it is part of a larger initiative to take advantage of the growing demand for autonomous agents.
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Parallels, the company best known for making the virtualization that enables you to run Windows and other operating systems on a Mac, has confirmed that Parallels Desktop is compatible with the MacBook Neo.
At launch it was unclear if Apple’s new $600 possessed the under-the-hood heft to run Windows apps, but in a recently updated on its website, Parallels said that initial tests show its software running “stably,” although performance is still being assessed.
The MacBook Neo uses an A18 Pro chip, which debuted in the However, as this chip is based on the same ARM architecture as M-series chips for Mac, it’s still capable of running Parallels’ Windows virtual machine.
But there is a caveat to all this. Just because you can do something, it doesn’t necessarily mean you should. While Parallels Desktop could theoretically be a viable option for Neo owners who are only interested in light Windows use, anything that puts a significant strain on the CPU or GPU is going to present a problem.
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This is because the MacBook Neo only ships with 8GB of RAM, and as Parallels highlights, Windows 11 requires a minimum of 4GB of RAM to run. That leaves a very small amount of remaining headroom for macOS and your Mac apps to run alongside Windows, which is going to noticeably hurt the laptop’s performance. Add to that the lack of a cooling fan, meaning the chip will reduce clock speeds when it detects a heavy CPU or GPU load, and this definitely isn’t a device for power users.
If you really want to dabble with Windows on a Mac, Parallels recommends picking up an Apple laptop with 16GB of unified memory or more, like the new or a MacBook Pro. And for those content with macOS and looking to save some money, we dubbed the MacBook Neo the best $600 laptop we’ve ever in our recently published review.
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With more than 1,000 stores across North America, Best Buy is the go-to retailer for many shoppers looking to stock up on new tech. While it’s best known for being a great place for TVs, computers, and appliances — as well as being known for its comprehensive price match policy — its website offers a surprisingly wide range of products. Among that is a selection of gadgets and tools that might be worth considering if you’re looking to upgrade your garage but don’t want to break the bank.
Best Buy’s sprawling range includes many great gift ideas too, so whether you’re buying for yourself or someone else, we think these five top-rated finds shouldn’t be overlooked. Each one has been put through its paces by buyers at the retailer and has been awarded consistently positive reviews, making it among the best-rated products in its segment. Reviewers from trusted publications have also been impressed after testing each one, further backing up the verdicts given by Best Buy customers.
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Worx 4V 3-Speed Compact Screwdriver Kit
The Worx brand isn’t quite up there with the likes of Milwaukee and DeWalt when it comes to overall reputation, but its tools generally get good reviews from DIYers. As well as making a range of outdoor gear, Worx also makes a range of power tool essentials that might come in handy for upgrading your garage, such as its 4V compact screwdriver kit. It retails at Best Buy for $34.99 and gets consistently good reviews from buyers, averaging 4.8 out of five stars from more than 1,300 reviews at the time of writing.
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Alongside the screwdriver itself, the kit also includes 12 accessories, including Torx and Phillips bits, plus a carry case to keep everything secure when it’s not in use. Two LED lights are also integrated within the tool to provide better visibility in dim lighting conditions. Worx says that the 4V screwdriver can deliver up to 45 minutes of continuous, no-load runtime. Three torque settings are available, although when used on its highest setting, runtime will be significantly reduced. When it’s out of juice, the screwdriver can be fully recharged in around 90 minutes.
In a comparison test, Parkers deemed it one of the best electric screwdrivers on the market, but did note that its hefty construction can make it less well suited to tight workspaces. However, it should feel suitably tough in hand; Worx is confident in its durability, offering the tool with a 3-year warranty.
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Chamberlain myQ Smart Garage Control
Opening a garage door with a remote control is more convenient than having to manually open it every time, but it still isn’t quite as convenient as having a modern smart door opener system. Replacing the entire opener system can be an expensive endeavor, but the Chamberlain myQ smart garage control is a much cheaper alternative to an all-new setup. It’s available for $29.99 at Best Buy and promises to make an existing system smarter than before, allowing you to use the myQ smartphone app to operate the door.
A reviewer at Tom’s Guide found installing the myQ garage control to be a straightforward task, reporting that it took around 20 minutes. Once it’s installed, the device can send alerts to homeowners if their garage door is opened. It’s also compatible with Amazon Key, which lets delivery drivers gain temporary access to the garage to prevent parcel theft; however, you cannot pair this smart garage control with an Alexa device.
According to its maker, the myQ smart garage control is compatible with all major garage door openers manufactured after 1993. Reviewers at Best Buy have few complaints about either its features or its compatibility, awarding it an average rating of 4.5 out of five stars from more than 1,200 reviews.
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iFixit Mako 64-Bit Driver Kit
Although they only apply in certain jurisdictions, right-to-repair laws give consumers support in maintaining their own electronic devices for a set period of years. Anyone looking to make the most of these laws and keep their household tech running for longer will need a suitable set of tools in order to open up their gadgets. Few tools are more essential than something like the iFixit Mako 64-bit driver kit, which features a wide range of bits needed to repair consumer tech and small appliances.
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The kit is available for $39.99 at Best Buy, and it’s backed by very strong reviews. At the time of writing, it boasts an average rating of 4.9 out of five stars from almost 1,400 customers. A reviewer at BinaryFork also put the kit to the test over the course of several years, concluding that it was one of the best sets he had tested at its price point.
Even for occasional use, the kit’s affordable price point makes it well worth considering — after all, taking even a single device to a repair shop will usually result in a higher labor bill. Plus, it’s backed by a limited lifetime warranty. When it’s not in use, the kit’s carry case ensures that the included bits don’t get lost, while the magnetized lid is designed to last for longer than a traditional plastic clasp.
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Bissell Pet Hair Eraser Handheld Vacuum
As well as being one of the top-rated car vacuums on Amazon, Bissell’s pet hair-busting vacuum also gets great reviews from customers at Best Buy. It has received more than 1,300 reviews on the retailer’s website, with an average rating of 4.6 out of five stars. It’s not just useful for cars either, since it’s compact and lightweight enough to make giving the house and garage a quick spruce up easier too.
However, it’s not the best choice for longer jobs, since it runs for just an advertised 17 minutes on a full charge. It also charges pretty slowly, taking eight hours to reach full from empty according to Bissell. Despite those limitations, CNN Underscored still crowned this unit the best handheld pet hair vacuum they had tested.
Bissell says that the Pet Hair Eraser handheld vacuum, which retails for $89.99, clocks in at just three pounds in weight yet has the capacity to hold up to 0.18 gallons of dirt and debris. The included crevice nozzle is designed to make reaching into tight spaces less of a challenge, and the brand also throws in an upholstery nozzle and brush tool. It’s a good amount of kit for the money, and it’s all covered by a standard 12 month warranty.
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JBL XTREME3 Portable Bluetooth Speaker
The JBL brand is older than many people might think, having been around since 1946 when it was first founded by James B. Lansing. Its affordably priced range of speakers get good reviews from buyers, and some are impressively tough too, making great additions to garages or workshops where damp or dirty conditions might pose a hazard.
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The brand’s XTREME3 portable Bluetooth speaker is IP67 rated against dust and water ingress, making it equally useful for garage duties or as an outdoor speaker over the warmer months. According to the brand, it can run for up to 15 hours on a full charge and will take just four hours to recharge when it’s flat. As a bonus, it also doubles up as a power bank for small electronics, which can be charged via its USB ports.
Reviewers at Best Buy are won over by its durability and sound quality, giving it an average rating of 4.7 out of five stars from more than 1,900 reviews. The folks at What HiFi are similarly enthusiastic about the speaker and gave it a five-star rating when testing it back in 2021. Every unit is covered by a one year manufacturer warranty for added peace of mind. The speaker is currently available for $289.99 from Best Buy, although as previously mentioned, the retailer’s price match guarantee means that anyone who can find it cheaper from a qualified rival will be able to claim back the difference.
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How we picked these Best Buy finds
M. Suhail/Getty Images
The range of products on Best Buy’s website is so expansive that it can be easy to overlook a gem or two. To filter out the best from the rest, we relied on reviewers who left their feedback on the retailer’s website. In order to qualify for inclusion here, each product had to have at least 1,000 reviews on the Best Buy site, with an average rating of at least 4.5 out of five stars. That was enough to put each one within the best rated products in its segment. To further confirm the usefulness of each kit, we validated our picks by sourcing an in-depth review from a trusted publication that had performed thorough hands-on testing with the product.
OpenAI offers app integrations in ChatGPT to allow you to connect your accounts directly to ChatGPT and ask the assistant to do things for you. For instance, with a Spotify integration, you can tell it to create personalized playlists that will show up right in your Spotify app.
To get started, make sure you’re logged into ChatGPT. Then type the name of the app you want to use at the start of your prompt, and ChatGPT will guide you through signing in and connecting your account.
If you want to set everything up at once, head over to the Settings menu, then click on Apps and Connectors. You can browse through the available apps, pick the ones you like, and it’ll take you to the sign-in page for each one.
However, it’s important to note that connecting your account means you’re sharing your app data with ChatGPT. Make sure to review the permissions you’re giving when you’re linking your accounts. For example, if you connect your Spotify account, ChatGPT can see your playlists, listening history, and other personal information. (Sharing this info helps personalize the experience, but if you have privacy concerns, consider whether you’re comfortable with this level of access before connecting.)
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You can also disconnect any app whenever you want, right from the Settings menu.
Available apps
Image Credits:OpenAI
Angi
Angi is one of the most recent companies to launch an in-app experience within ChatGPT. The online home service marketplace gives users a way to ask home improvement questions directly in the AI chatbot and request to be matched with an Angi professional in one place. Users can ask about house projects and repair guidance, then request a quote and be directed to Angi, where they can continue the experience with its own AI assistant.
Booking.com
Image Credits:OpenAI
This integration with the online travel giant is designed to help travelers, especially first-time visitors in need of suggestions for where to stay.
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Once you link your Booking.com account, you can ask ChatGPT to find hotels in your preferred city based on your dates and budget. You can also specify how many people are coming and whether you want the hotel near public transport. ChatGPT aims to make this process more intuitive than searching directly on the Booking.com site. Plus, you can be more specific, like searching for options “with breakfast included.”
When you find a hotel you like, just open the Booking.com listing to complete your reservation.
Canva
Image Credits:Canva
Canva in ChatGPT is a helpful tool for graphic designers and anyone else who needs to generate visual content quickly. Whether it’s for a social media post, a poster, or a slide deck for a presentation, this may be a good way to help kickstart your project and brainstorm ideas.
Once you connect your Canva account, you can ask ChatGPT to design something like “a 16:9 slide deck about our Q4 roadmap” or “a fun poster for a dog-walking business.” You can include specifics such as the fonts you prefer, color schemes, formats (like Instagram posts or stories), and exact dimensions.
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AI-generated designs are seldom perfect, with occasional distorted images or spelling mistakes. However, some users may find this better than starting from scratch, and they can jump into Canva at any time to tweak their design and make it look just how they want.
Coursera
Image Credits:Coursera
Coursera’s integration is designed to help you quickly discover the best online courses for your skill level. For instance, you can then tell ChatGPT to find an “intermediate-level course on Python.” You can then tell the chatbot to compare course options by rating, duration, and cost before enrolling. ChatGPT can also provide a quick rundown of what exactly each course covers.
DoorDash
Image Credits:DoorDash
DoorDash introduced its ChatGPT integration in December 2025, which aims to save time on meal planning and grocery shopping. Users can ask the chatbot for a meal plan and instantly add all ingredients to their DoorDash cart, then review and check out.
Currently, this feature is available only to users in the U.S., with participating grocery retailers, including Kroger, Safeway, Fairway Market, Wegmans, and more.
Expedia
Image Credits:Expedia
ChatGPT can display hotel options and flights via Expedia without leaving chat. Whether you’re looking for a quick escape or a longer trip, it can find flights that fit your travel dates, budget, and number of travelers. You can narrow things down by saying stuff like “Only show 4-star hotels.” Once you see something you like, go to Expedia to finalize everything and book your trip.
Figma
Image Credits:Figma
To use Figma in ChatGPT, you can ask it to generate diagrams, flow charts, and more. This is helpful for turning your ideas and brainstorming sessions into something more tangible. It may also be useful for visualizing complex concepts or workflows.
You can also upload files and ask the chatbot to generate a product roadmap for your team. This roadmap can include milestones, deliverables, and deadlines, helping your team stay organized and focused on their goals.
Quizlet
Quizlet recently launched a native app within ChatGPT, allowing students to convert AI conversations, notes, or documents into study materials and flashcard sets. Plus, users can now enter an active practicing mode in ChatGPT, where they can access Quizlet’s library of millions of study sets.
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Spotify
Image Credits:Spotify
One of the most helpful aspects of using Spotify in ChatGPT is the ability to quickly create playlists and listen to new recommended songs tailored to your specific tastes. You can ask it to create a playlist based on your current mood, or just a playlist that only includes tracks by your favorite band.
It can also suggest new artists, playlists, audiobooks, and podcast episodes. Additionally, ChatGPT can perform actions on your behalf, including adding and removing items from your Spotify library.
Target
Image Credits:Target
Retail giant Target strategically launched a beta version of its ChatGPT integration before Black Friday. This feature allows shoppers to ask the chatbot for gift suggestions and quickly create a shopping basket with multiple items without leaving ChatGPT. For example, users can request ideas for a movie night, and the chatbot will provide a curated selection of available Target items. Shoppers can add these items to their cart and make a purchase using their Target account. They can then choose from same-day “Drive Up,” in-store pickup, or standard shipping.
Uber
If you’re planning a trip, the Uber integration makes it easy to find ride options, which is especially useful if you’re in a new country. You can set up your trip in the ChatGPT app, then complete the ride request and payment in the Uber app.
Currently, it’s only available in the U.S., and it doesn’t let you book rides in advance; only on-demand rides are available. You can choose from options like UberX, UberXL, Comfort, and Black.
There’s also an Uber Eats integration for U.S. users, so you can check out local restaurants and menu items within ChatGPT, then finish paying in the Uber Eats app.
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Wix
Image Credits:Wix
In March 2026, website builder Wix launched its integration, allowing users to prompt ChatGPT to create a functional website with just a text or voice prompt. Users can describe the capabilities they want the website to have, how it should look, and other desired features. Additionally, existing Wix users can manage their business within ChatGPT, which can handle scheduling, payments, SEO, accessibility, performance, security, and more.
Zillow
Image Credits:Zillow
If you’re looking for a new home, Zillow in ChatGPT could make the search experience more straightforward. Using a simple text prompt, you can find homes that meet your criteria and apply filters to narrow the results. Whether you’re looking for a specific price range, number of bedrooms, or particular neighborhoods, you can specify these details in your prompt, making the search process much more efficient and tailored to your needs.
What’s next?
Alongside the announcement that OpenAI would bring apps into ChatGPT, the company also said it plans to welcome additional partners soon, including OpenTable, PayPal, and Walmart. These will launch in 2026.
The rollout of ChatGPT’s app integrations is currently limited to the U.S. and Canada. Users in Europe and the U.K. are excluded for now.
This story has been updated to include newly launched integrations.
Watch March Madness 2026 live streams as 68 schools battle it out over the course of 67 games in 21 days to determine this year’s NCAA national champion. Below we have all the info on how to watch college basketball from anywhere in the world with details on worldwide TV channels, broadcasters and free streaming online.
Having started all the way back in November, the long college basketball season is set to come to its fast and furious climax. The beginning of the end kicks off with Selection Sunday (March 15) where the all-important brackets are decided, followed by the First Four round (March 17 & 18) in which a quartet of colleges play for the right to join the Big Dance.
After battling out a thrilling championship game this time last year, the Houston Cougars and champs Florida Gators are likely to fancy their chances of a strong run again. While the Duke Blue Devils, Arizona Wildcats and Michigan Wolverines all come into March Madness with imposing 29-2 records. And the tournament also provides a showcase for some of college ball’s hottest talent and NBA prospects, like Cameron Boozer, Darryn Peterson, AJ Dybantsa and Caleb Wilson.
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Here’s where to stream March Madness 2026 live online and watch college basketball from anywhere, including ways you can watch every game for free.
Watch March Madness 2026 Quick Guide
Key dates
First Four: March 17-18
Championship game: Mon, Apr. 6
Can I watch March Madness in 2026 for free?
DAZN has struck a deal with the NCAA to broadcast every single game of March Madness 2026 for FREE in a wide range of countries.
The territories covered include the UK, Ireland, Scandinavia, Belgium, Italy, Portugal, UAE, and more. You can see the full list here.
Away from your home country but still want to watch those free DAZN streams? You’ll need to use a VPN, with details on how below.
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Use a VPN to watch any March Madness 2026 stream
How to watch March Madness 2026 live streams in the US
National coverage of March Madness 2026 is shared between CBS (also streaming on Paramount+) and TBS, TNT, and truTV (also streaming on HBO Max). You can see the split in our ‘Schedule’ section at the bottom of this page.
If you’re a cord cutter, Sling TV’s Orange plan carries TNT and TBS and prices start from as low as $4.99 for one-day access, $9.99 for three days, $14.99 a week or $45.99 a month.
Alternatively, YouTube TV and Hulu + Live TV both carry all four channels and feature free trials for new users.
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Paramount Plus subscribers will need the Premium plan to watch CBS live. Prices start at $13.99/month, but you can also get an active 30-day subscription for just $1 if you sign up to Walmart+.
HBO Max prices start at $16.99 for the standard plan which is required for live sport.
Cable subscribers can also watch online via the March Madness Live app, available on a multitude of platforms.
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How to watch March Madness 2026 live streams in Canada
In Canada, coverage of March Madness 2026 from the US is shown by TSN.
That means you can also watch online thanks to its TSN+ ($8 a month / $80 a year) streaming platform.
If you already subscribe to this services but find yourself outside Canada, download a VPN and watch NCAA championship games as if you were back at home.
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How to watch March Madness 2026 live streams in the UK for FREE
As explained above, specialist sports streamer DAZN has the rights to show March Madness 2026 in the UK.
What’s more, it will do so for FREE. You just need to create a free account in order to stream every single game for free.
Alternatively, Disney+ will broadcast every game from the tournament with prices starting at just £5.99/month.
Outside the UK? You’ll need to download a VPN, as detailed above, to watch your free college basketball streams from abroad.
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How to watch March Madness 2026 live streams in Australia
Aussies can watch NCAA March Madness 2026 on Disney+, which now streams the tournament live in Australia as part of its ESPN coverage.
Games are also available on ESPN via Foxtel, which can be live streamed through Foxtel Now.
That means you can also stream games through Kayo Sports – from about $30 AUD a month after a 7-day free trial or introductory offer.
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Not in Australia? Use Norton VPN if you’re away from home, in order to tap into your usual college basketball coverage from anywhere.
National Championship Game April 6 – TBS/truTV/TNT/HBO Max (Free on DAZN in UK)
When does March Madness 2026 start?
Following Selection Sunday on March 15, the March Madness 2026 action gets underway on Tuesday, March 17 with the First Four round. The championship game set to take place on Monday, April 6.
Can I watch March Madness 2026 on my mobile?
The vast majority of broadcasters mentioned in this article have streaming services that you can access through mobile apps or via your phone’s browser – for example, March Madness Live, Paramount+ and HBO Max in the US and DAZN in the UK.
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We test and review VPN services in the context of legal recreational uses. For example: 1. Accessing a service from another country (subject to the terms and conditions of that service). 2. Protecting your online security and strengthening your online privacy when abroad. We do not support or condone the illegal or malicious use of VPN services. Consuming pirated content that is paid-for is neither endorsed nor approved by Future Publishing.
Artificial intelligence chatbots are facing growing scrutiny after several recent cases linked online conversations with violent incidents or attempted attacks. Legal filings, lawsuits, and independent research suggest that interactions with AI systems may sometimes reinforce dangerous beliefs among vulnerable individuals, raising concerns about how these technologies handle conversations involving violence or severe mental distress.
Alarming Cases Spark Concern
One of the most disturbing incidents occurred last month in Tumbler Ridge, Canada, where court documents claim that 18-year-old Jesse Van Rootselaar discussed feelings of isolation and an escalating fascination with violence with ChatGPT before carrying out a deadly school attack. According to the filings, the chatbot allegedly validated her emotions and provided guidance about weapons and past mass casualty events. Authorities say Van Rootselaar went on to kill her mother, her younger brother, five students, and an education assistant before taking her own life.
Another case involves Jonathan Gavalas, a 36-year-old man who died by suicide in October after reportedly engaging in extensive conversations with Google’s Gemini chatbot. A recently filed lawsuit claims the AI convinced Gavalas that it was his sentient “AI wife” and directed him on real-world missions meant to evade federal agents. In one instance, the chatbot allegedly instructed him to stage a “catastrophic incident” at a storage facility near Miami International Airport, advising him to eliminate witnesses and destroy evidence. Gavalas reportedly arrived armed with knives and tactical gear, but the scenario described by the chatbot never materialized.
In a separate incident in Finland last year, investigators say a 16-year-old student used ChatGPT for months to develop a manifesto and plan a knife attack, which resulted in three female classmates being stabbed.
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Growing Worries About AI And Delusions
Experts say these cases highlight a troubling pattern in which individuals who already feel isolated or persecuted engage with chatbots that unintentionally reinforce those beliefs. Jay Edelson, the attorney leading the lawsuit involving Gavalas, said the chat logs he has reviewed often follow a similar trajectory: users begin by describing loneliness or feeling misunderstood, and the conversation gradually escalates into narratives involving conspiracies or threats.
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Edelson claims his law firm now receives daily inquiries from families dealing with AI-related mental health crises, including suicide cases and violent incidents. He believes the same pattern may appear in other attacks currently under investigation.
Concerns about AI’s role in violence extend beyond these individual cases. Research conducted by the Center for Countering Digital Hate (CCDH) found that many major chatbots were willing to assist users posing as teenagers in planning violent attacks. The study tested systems including ChatGPT, Google Gemini, Microsoft Copilot, Meta AI, Perplexity, Character.AI, DeepSeek, and Replika. According to the findings, most platforms provided guidance on weapons, tactics, or target selection when prompted.
Only Anthropic’s Claude and Snapchat’s My AI consistently refused to help plan attacks, and Claude was the only chatbot that actively attempted to discourage the behavior.
Why The Issue Matters
Experts warn that AI systems designed to be helpful and conversational can sometimes produce responses that validate harmful beliefs instead of challenging them. Imran Ahmed, CEO of the Center for Countering Digital Hate, says the underlying design of many chatbots encourages engagement and assumes positive intent from users.
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That approach can create dangerous situations when someone is experiencing delusional thinking or violent ideation. Within minutes, vague grievances can evolve into detailed planning with suggestions about weapons or tactics, according to the CCDH report.
Calls For Stronger Safeguards
Technology companies say they have implemented safeguards intended to prevent chatbots from assisting with violent activities. OpenAI and Google both maintain that their systems are designed to refuse requests related to harm or illegal behavior.
Unsplash
However, the incidents described in lawsuits and research reports suggest those safeguards may not always work as intended. In the Tumbler Ridge case, OpenAI reportedly flagged the user’s conversations internally and banned the account but chose not to notify law enforcement. The individual later created a new account.
Since the attack, OpenAI has announced plans to revise its safety procedures. The company says it will consider notifying authorities sooner when conversations appear dangerous and will strengthen mechanisms to prevent banned users from returning to the platform.
As AI tools become more integrated into everyday life, researchers and policymakers are increasingly focused on ensuring these systems cannot be manipulated into amplifying harmful beliefs or facilitating real-world violence. The ongoing investigations and lawsuits may ultimately shape how companies design safety systems for the next generation of conversational AI.
You’d be hard-pressed to find a machine that makes it easier to make drip coffee or espresso. The sleek and beautiful Terra Kaffe TK-02 grinds coffee beans — or you can use coffee grounds, if you prefer. The touchscreen is user friendly, and has presets for various types of coffee, ranging from Americano to espresso and latte, and you can even steam milk for hot chocolate. Prompts on the touchscreen provide reminders to rinse the milk machine, and empty the waste bin — and the machine can even be controlled via app. The Terra Kaffe TK-02 is quite expensive, but it’s also very versatile.
Bean hopper/grinder
Accepts coffee beans and pre-ground coffee
Presets for a variety of espresso beverages and drip coffee
Helpful on-screen prompts and instructions
App enabled
Milk carafe attaches by hose
Pre-ground chute can be messy
Key Features
Introduction
I like options, and I have an entire kitchen cabinet shelf filled with bags of coffee beans and bags of ground coffee. And when I’m not testing new items, I usually have a coffee maker (that uses ground coffee) on one counter, and an espresso machine (that uses coffee beans) either right next to it, or on another counter.
With the Terra Kaffe TK-02, I can use coffee beans or ground coffee in the same machine, and I can also make espresso-based drinks and drip coffee. I don’t take this level of convenience lightly — I consider it game changing. If you’re in the market for a high-end espresso machine that has all of the bells of whistles, or you live in a household with coffee drinkers who don’t always agree on drip versus espresso drinks, this could be the machine for your needs.
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Design and features
Coffee bean hopper/grinder and pre-ground chute
Milk carafe for frothing and steaming milk
User-friendly interface and also app-enabled
The Terra Kaffe TK-02 arrived in a branded cardboard box. The box was moderately beat-up around the edges, but the contents were securely wrapped in Styrofoam, along with individual boxes and heavy plastic.
In addition to the machine, the box’s contents include a detachable power cord, milk carafe, milk hose, water filter, descaler, brewer cleaner, and manual.
Image Credit (Trusted Reviews)
Photo: mug and coffee
I also received a Terra Kaffe mug and a bag of Classico Coffee Co Dark Roast House Blend.
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Image Credit (Trusted Reviews)
Parts of the machine include the 16-ounce bean hopper and the grinder settings can be adjusted. There’s also a pre-ground coffee chute, and a removable drip tray.
The front of the machine has magnetic parts to easily access and remove the water tank and the waste bin. I can also view the water tank without opening the door.
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Image Credit (Trusted Reviews)
The hi-res 5-inch capacitive display is best described as foolproof. I can choose between drink settings, espresso profile, settings, cleaning, and sleep. The display also reveals such information as how many pucks are in the waste bin, as well as the status of the water level or drip tray (so I’ll know if it’s time to empty them), and the WiFi status.
Connecting to the app provides remote access to this information and controls. I can choose the drink type, and set an auto wake time. I can also customize my beverages. For example, I can create Terri’s Latte or Terri’s Drip, and then customize the dose (amount of coffee), volume, temperature, and grind size (coarser or finer). Since this information is also available on the touchscreen, it’s just easier for me to do it there.
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Maintenance is also rather foolproof. The display panel (and the app) shows color-coded dots to note the cleaning status: green means no action is required, yellow means action is needed soon, and red means critical action is needed before brewing.
Performance
Grinds well
Brews a variety of beverages easily and quickly
Frothing is spot-on
Photo: hopper and grinder
The bean hopper is 16 ounces. On the left back side of the hopper is the separate pre-ground coffee chute. I never drink non-decaf coffee more than two days in row (to avoid caffeine headaches). The separate hopper and chute allow me to switch to decaffeinated ground coffee – and try new flavors – without having to removing the existing beans from the hopper.
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Image Credit (Trusted Reviews)
After filling the water tank, I ground some coffee beans and selected an espresso drink from the display panel. The machine heats up quickly and easily produced a rich-tasting drink with a foamy crema that was thick and delicious.
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Image Credit (Trusted Reviews)
Next, I wanted to try out the steam function, so I attached the milk carafe and milk hose to make a latte. This is one of the first espresso machines I’ve tested that has an attached hose, and I thought it would be tedious to use. While it was initially weird, the process was quite simple. There’s a Hot Milk setting and a Froth Milk setting. After selecting Froth Milk, the system started and quickly heated and frothed the milk – which was delicious.
Image Credit (Trusted Reviews)
In my next test, I made an Americano drink. I was curious to see how the TK-02 would handle a larger, lighter coffee beverage, but it turned out well and was flavorful with a perfect crema layer as well.
Image Credit (Trusted Reviews)
In my final test, I made a regular cup of drip coffee using pre-ground coffee. It was delicious, as well. However, I had a small (and insignificant) problem in this area. While the chute is an adequate size, if I’m not paying attention, the coffee in the scooper would spill on the perimeter and I’d have to try to wipe/push it into the chute.
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I used the TK-02’s presets for all of the drinks, since they didn’t disappoint. However, it’s good to know that the drinks can be customized as desired.
Maintenance and cleaning are relatively simple. The display prompts help greatly. For example, the Emptying Waste Bin prompt explains that the waste bin can be accessed from behind the left door (and recommends disposing of the coffee pucks in a compost or garden). Another alert comes on to clean the milk spout.
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Should you buy it?
You want a high-end espresso machine with flexibility
This machine makes a variety of espresso drinks as well as drip coffee, and the milk steamer/frother works well.
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You’re only going to make drip coffee
For the price, it might be a waste of the many other features to purchase it only to make coffee.
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Final Thoughts
I was thoroughly impressed with the Terra Kaffe TK-02, which has a stylish, modern design, and is loaded with features that make the espresso machine easy to use. The intuitive display provides prompts to ensure you don’t forget the vital maintenance functions that keep the machine functioning well for years. In addition, being able to customize the strength, volume, and other settings, should satisfy even the most discriminating coffee drinker. Admittedly, this is one of the most expensive espresso machines, so that’s certainly a factor that much be considered, especially if you’re on a budget.
How we test
We test every coffee machine we review thoroughly over an extended period of time. We use industry-standard tests to compare features properly. We’ll always tell you what we find. We never, ever, accept money to review a product.
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Find out more about how we test in our ethics policy.
Used as our main coffee machine for the review period
Tested for at least a week
We roast our own beans for regular coffee machines, so we can fairly compare each machine; pod machines are tested with a variety of compatible capsules
Depending on capabilities, we test each machine’s ability to make espresso and cappuccino
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FAQs
Are the Terra Kaffe TK-02 parts dish washable?
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No, Terra Kaffe advises against washing the milk carafe, water tank, drip tray, waste bin, drip tray cover, hopper cover, and pre-ground chute cover in the dishwasher.
Why is the Terra Kaffe TK-02 brewing slowly, or just out of one spout?
Select the Cleaning menu, and then select the Clean Brew Unit cycle. If the problem persists, go to the Espresso Profile Menu and increase the grind size.
DeWalt is frequently cited alongside Makita and Milwaukee as one of the best premium contractor-grade hand and power tool brands on the market. The company has earned a sterling reputation for power, performance, and reliability. That said, the black and yellow tools are also among the most expensive models that you’re likely to find on the shelves of your local hardware store.
Those who are interested in getting tools with similar specs and features to those built by DeWalt, but who want to expand their collection without breaking the bank, might be interested in taking a look at what Harbor Freight has to offer. The company’s website frequently invites its customers to compare its tools to more expensive models made by rival brands, including DeWalt. In particular, you might find that the retailer’s Hercules premium power tool brand and Icon hand tool brand are often compared to DeWalt. There are even some Harbor Freight tools that are more powerful than DeWalt models.
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Many of these tools aren’t just more affordable, but they’re also quite highly rated. So you might find that there are quite a few user-approved DeWalt alternatives that are worth buying. By taking a look at the specs offered on the tools themselves and also seeing what customers and pros have had to say about them, you might get a better idea about which of the Harbor Freight options might be a worthwhile substitute for the more expensive DeWalt models.
Harbor Freight often models its designs after popular tools made by rival brands, and several users have noted that one of the company’s miter saws looks a lot like DeWalt’s. That said, you can get this one for a lot cheaper.
The Hercules 15 Amp 12-inch Dual-Bevel Miter Saw (HE74) retails for $349.99, meaning that it’s a full $299 cheaper than the DeWalt 15 Amp 12-inch Double Bevel Sliding Compound Miter Saw (DWS780) that you might compare it to. It isn’t just the design that’s similar, either. The specs are pretty impressive as well. This tool’s 15 Amp motor is able to rotate the blade at speeds up to 4,100 RPM. It has a 14-inch crosscut capacity, a 6 ¾-inch vertical cut capacity, and a 7 ½-inch nested capacity for crown molding. The saw can miter 60 degrees to the right or 50 degrees to the left, while the miter detent plate has 10 positive stops and an override system for fine adjustments.
The tool also includes an LED blade guide system to help line up your cuts, and it comes with a 60-tooth carbide-tipped blade. It boasts an impressive score of 4.9 out of 5 on the Harbor Freight website, aggregated from over 3,600 reviews, with 99% of users claiming that they would recommend the item to others. “The power is incredible,” said one reviewer. “I cut through a 4×4 test piece, and the saw’s motor didn’t bog down at all. The fit and finish is impeccable, and the entire saw was 100% accurate right out of the box.” With that in mind, it’s easy to see why this miter saw is often counted as one of the best Hercules power tools sold at Harbor Freight.
Woodworkers who often utilize rough-cut or irregularly shaped boards will eventually want to invest in a feed-through board planer. The DeWalt 12 ½-inch Thickness Planer (DW734) is one of the top-rated standing planers on the market, regularly being cited as among the most popular choices on sites like Amazon and Home Depot (though the 13-inch model is usually ranked a bit higher). Even so, buying one is a big investment. The yellow and black model retails for $549.00.
Alternatively, you can invest in the Hercules 15 Amp 12 ½-inch Portable Thickness Planer (HE091), which goes for just $399.99. Like the DeWalt, this tool has a 15 Amp motor, promising the same ability to deliver up to 96 cuts per inch. This helps keep board surfaces smooth as they’re planed. It also shares DeWalt’s 3-knife cutting head design. Additionally, the planer has a material removal gauge to help keep cuts consistent across multiple passes, a turret depth stop that makes it easy to maintain a standard thickness across boards, a 4-post carriage lock that helps reduce snipe, and a tool-free dust port with 2 ½-inch and 4-inch diameters for different-sized hoses.
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This tool has a 4.8 out of 5 on the Harbor Freight site, with 97% of buyers claiming that they would recommend it. “This thing is solid and does a really stellar job on anything I’ve thrown at it, one reviewer stated. “The price is perfect, the cut quality is great, it’s sturdy, and is ready to go right out of the box. The adjustments are clear and it works really well. This new is far better than buying name brand on marketplace for cheap.”
If you’re interested in getting some pneumatic tools, such as an air-powered nail gun, impact wrench, paint sprayer, or grinder, then you’re going to need a decent air compressor. DeWalt sells a few of these, but they can be quite pricey. The DeWalt 27-gallon 200-PSI Portable Vertical Electric Air Compressor (DXCM271) is a solid option — but it will run you $856.69.
Harbor Freight’s alternative to this is the Fortress 27 Gallon 200 PSI Oil-Free Vertical Shop/Auto Air Compressor (FT27200). You can already see that it matches most of the specs right there in the name, but this compressor also has a soft-start motor, a full roll cage for the pump and motor assembly, a hose wrap, a cord wrap, 10-inch tires, an integrated control panel, 2-inch gauges, and two universal brass couplers. It has an effective regulated pressure range of 0-155 PSI and delivers 5.1 SCFM at 90 PSI. Best of all, it’s just $399.99 — less than half the price of the DeWalt.
This guy has a 4.5 out of 5 on the Harbor Freight site with a 90% customer recommendation rating. There are a couple of scattered complaints about how long the compressor takes to reach the desired pressure and a few more stating that the 78 dB motor is too loud, but the vast majority of reviews are positive. “Fills up from zero to full in 9:38 seconds,” one reviewer said. “Ran it for 30 minutes straight for the initial break-in period. The drain valve is a little lower than I’d like, but it’s still workable. Solid unit, unbeatable price.”
Another tool you might be considering for your collection is an angle grinder. These are incredibly useful for all kinds of tasks, from cutting to grinding to sanding. That said, they’re also one of the most nerve-wracking tools for even pros to use due to their rapid rotation and the fact that they offer less guard protection than most cutting tools, so you want to make sure that you get a good one.
Harbor Freight compares its Hercules 13 Amp 4 ½-inch to 6-inch Trigger-Grip Angle Grinder (HE65) to the exceptionally highly rated DeWalt 13 Amp 4 ½-inch Corded Angle Grinder (DWE43116). Both of these tools have the same-sized electric motor, but the DeWalt only promises 9,000 RPM when not under load, while the Hercules edges past it at 10,000 RPM. It also has a trigger-grip handle with an optional lock-on function, a 2-position side handle, a metal gear case, and comes with three separate tool-free guards for different-sized attachments: 4 ½-inch, 5-inch, and 6-inch. The Hercules is also $99.99 while the DeWalt is $158.99.
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This tool has a 4.8 out of 5 on the Harbor Freight website with a 97% recommendation rate. “You can pay twice as much for a similar tool, but why?” asked one reviewer. “I removed tile in my large kitchen and used this tool to remove the glue underneath. […] I had this grinder going for hours at a time for close to a week. Very solid tool.” There are a handful of negative reviews, but there don’t appear to be any consistently reported issues that suggest a problem in the tool’s design.
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Hercules 12 Amp Variable Speed Fixed Base Router with Plunge Base (HE041)
Another woodworking tool that might be on your list is a good fixed-base router. You’ll need one of these if you want to create those fancy patterned edges on table tops, cut out smooth slots to use as handles, or any other number of applications that involve shaping and removing wood.
The DeWalt 12 Amp Corded 2 ¼ Horsepower Fixed and Plunge Base Router Kit (DW618PKB) retails for $244.00 and allows you to make just about any type of cut you might want. It’s also worth noting that this particular kit includes a tool bag, which the Harbor Freight model does not. That said, the Hercules 12 Amp Variable Speed Fixed Base Router with Plunge Base (HE041) has the same size motor and just about everything you might need to make fixed and plunge cuts, and it will only run you $124.99.This is a variable-speed router that promises 10,000-25,000 RPM. It has a 6-speed variable control dial, integrated dust collection, works with ¼-inch and ½-inch shanks, has a built-in LED worklight, and adjusts within 1/64-inch increments.
The tool has a 4.8 out of 5 on the Harbor Freight site with an impressive 98% recommendation rate. “I was impressed the first time I hit the power switch,” said one of the reviewers. “The feel of power through the handles. The way it removed oak and pine both with ease. The accessories were easy to use. The dust removal system works well and not blown into your face. Incredible power for a great price.”
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Our methodology
Edwin Tan/Getty Images
Harbor Freight asks customers to compare several of its tools and accessories to models made by other brands right on its website, suggesting that it offers products that are comparable to pro-grade models at a fraction of the price. In preparing this article, we started by looking at several of the Harbor Freight products that explicitly stated that they were comparable to models made by DeWalt. We had several criteria for the options that we chose: We wanted to make sure that we were not only showcasing tools and accessories that were similar in design, but also ones that advertised comparable specifications and features while being sold at a significantly lower price than their DeWalt counterparts.
Once we had picked out a few options, we broke down what the product was, how its specs and features compared to those of the rival DeWalt model, and the difference in price. We also took a look at what users have had to say about these tools to get a better idea of whether or not they actually live up to Harbor Freight’s promises in real-world applications, and whether any weaknesses were regularly reported that potential buyers might want to know about.
It’s well established that when cats fall, they’re able to land perfectly most of the time, nimbly maneuvering to right themselves before they hit the ground. Now, researchers at Japan’s Yamaguchi University have advanced our understanding of this extraordinary ability, focusing on the mechanical properties of feline spines.
What they found, as detailed in a recent study in the journal The Anatomical Record, is that those sure-footed landings are due in part to the fact that a cat’s thoracic region is much more flexible than its lumbar region.
While a cat’s ability to rotate in the air without something to push again seems to defy the laws of physics, it’s instead a complex righting maneuver. To find out how they do it, researchers in the new study first analyzed the spines of five deceased cats, separating the thoracic and lumbar regions and then subjecting them to mechanical tests to measure their flexibility, strength, and resistance to rotation. In another experiment, researchers used high-speed cameras to film two cats dropping onto a soft cushion.
From the subsequent analyses, as told by the journal Phys.org, the team observed that what makes cats masters of falling is their spines, which are not uniformly flexible. In particular, the thoracic region is very flexible: It can rotate about 50 degrees with very little effort. The lumbar region, by contrast, is much stiffer and acts as a stabilizer.
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When straightening in the air, therefore, cats first rotate their head and front legs toward the ground because the thoracic spine is flexible, then the entire back of the body follows. The stiffer lumbar region functions as a kind of anchor, allowing felines to rotate the front without losing control.
The results of the new study suggest that the complex midair righting maneuver performed by cats occurs according to a precise sequence. “During air-righting, anterior trunk rotation was completed earlier than posterior trunk rotation,” the study reads. “These results suggest that trunk rotation during air-righting in cats occurs sequentially, with the anterior trunk rotating first followed by the posterior trunk, and that their flexible thoracic spine and rigid lumbar spine in axial torsion are suited for this behavior.”
In addition to unlocking the secret of cats’ ability to fall “upright,” the authors conclude, the findings could help veterinarians treat spinal injuries and even lead to the development of more agile robots.
This story originally appeared in WIRED Italia and has been translated from Italian.
Homeostasis’ prototype device for producing graphite material for use in batteries. (Homeostasis Photo)
Homeostasis co-founder and CEO Makoto Eyre cites a famous Eisenhower line to capture his current leadership mindset: “Plans are worthless, but planning is everything.” It’s an apt motto for a startup trying to build a business at the intersection of climate policy, trade wars and the global race for battery materials.
The Seattle-area startup is developing technology that converts captured carbon dioxide into graphite — a critical material for batteries that power EVs, drones and grid energy storage.
But today’s topsy-turvy geopolitical landscape is creating opportunities and challenges for Homeostasis that flip flop over time.
While the Trump administration is uninterested in carbon removal as a climate strategy, it’s enthusiastic about domestic graphite production — an apparent bright spot for the startup. But tariffs on Chinese graphite, which now total roughly 200%, risk depressing the broader battery sector, potentially shrinking the market that Homeostasis is counting on.
In December, the startup announced a strategic partnership and funding from LAB7, the investment arm of Saudi Arabia’s state-owned oil giant Aramco. The collaboration will help Homeostasis scale its plant operations and refine its graphite processing to ensure it reaches “drop-in” status for battery manufacturers. The deal is being driven by Saudi Arabia’s goal of quickly building a domestic EV supply chain.
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Homeostasis co-founders Julien Lombardi, left, and Makoto Eyre. (Homeostasis Photo)
Aiming for U.S.-made graphite
Homeostasis is also eager to supply graphite to North American customers, hoping to one day compete against China, which produces more than 90% of the world’s battery-grade graphite.
Commercial graphite mining largely ceased in the U.S. in 1950s, and domestic production is just restarting. Synthetic graphite can be produced as a byproduct of crude oil refining, but creating a battery-grade material requires a costly, lengthy and energy-intensive process.
The startup takes a different approach. Its molten salt electrolysis process runs electricity through a high-temperature salt mixture containing dissolved CO2 captured from industrial operations. The carbon deposits onto an electrode as crystalline graphite, with oxygen released as a byproduct.
CEO Eyre and an engineer are based in Tacoma, Wash., while a three-person science team led by co-founder Julien Lombardi works out of New York.
Homeostasis last year raised a $600,000 pre-seed investment and $700,000 from Washington’s Climate Commitment Act. The company is hiring engineers in Washington and plans to double its headcount by the end of the year.
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‘Setting the course’
Homeostasis is currently building a prototype that will produce 1 kilogram — just over two pounds — of graphite daily, primarily to provide samples to Aramco. Within two years, the team aims to open a pilot plant capable of generating tens of tons annually.
The longer-term goal is a self-contained system that fits inside a single 40-foot shipping container and produces 100 tons of graphite per year. Homeostasis plans to deploy the units at automakers or energy companies that have existing carbon capture infrastructure.
The U.S. traps an estimated 30 million to 50 million metric tons of CO2 annually, though most is currently used for enhanced oil recovery — representing a vast potential feedstock if the economics pencil out. Based on battery-demand projections, the startup estimates that the U.S. and Canada will need roughly 1 million tons of graphite per year by the end of this decade.
For Eyre, the current volatility is noise. What matters is the underlying signal: a global shift toward electrification that will require energy storage at a scale the world has never seen.
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“To support that we need critical materials, and they need to be low cost,” he said. “While the policy details might be shifting over time, we’re building solid fundamentals. We are setting the course.”
