US military tracks Russian launch of anti-satellite missile towards space - CNET

The apparent test involved a system with the ability to destroy a target in low Earth orbit.

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Petition promotes Dr. Anthony Fauci as Sexiest Man Alive - CNET

The coronavirus expert's face is now on socks, shirts, blankets, and even doughnuts.

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Best smart thermostat: Reviews and buying advice

There are so many smart thermostats to choose from today. We'll help you pick the right one.

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Best smart thermostat: Reviews and buying advice

There are so many smart thermostats to choose from today. We'll help you pick the right one.

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The Radeon Pro W5700X is now available for custom Mac Pro configurations

Mac Pro customers continue to get more options.

What you need to know

• The Radeon Pro W5700X is available now on Apple's website.
• Customers can choose the graphics card when configuring their Mac Pro.
• The card is a powerhouse for video work.

Even with the announcement of the new iPhone SE, the Mac Pro has continued to receive some love today. In addition to Apple making the Mac Pro Wheels Kit and Mac Pro Feet Kit available for order, it has also added a new graphics card to those who want to custom configure their Mac Pro.

Apple has added the Radeon Pro W5700X with 16GB of GDDR6 memory graphics card to its list of available graphics cards when custom configuring the Mac Pro. The card was originally announced in December of 2019, so it has taken a few months to make its way to Apple's most professional Mac. According to AMD, the card is a great solution for those who are using their Mac Pro for video work.

"The AMD Radeon Pro W5700X GPU is designed to help Mac Pro users cut through all types of professional visual content creation workloads with ease. Built on advanced AMD RDNA architecture optimized for performance, scalability and power efficiency, AMD Radeon Pro W5700X GPUs provide workstation-class performance for rendering, 8K video playback, video editing and effects, and computationally intensive tasks."

The addition of the Radeon Pro W5700X brings the number of graphics cards available with the Mac Pro to four:

• Radeon Pro 580X with 8GB of GDDR5 memory
• Radeon Pro W5700X with 16GB of GDDR6 memory
• Radeon Pro Vega II with 32GB of HBM2 memory
• Radeon Pro Vega II Duo with 2x32GB of HBM2 memory

Customers are also able to, except for the 580X add two of the graphics cards to the Mac Pro. In a press release, Scott Herkelman, Corporate Vice President and General Manager of Radeon Technologies Group at AMD, says that the addition of the Radeon Pro W5700X gives customers even more options in finding the best solution to their needs.

"The new Apple Mac Pro provides professionals with leadership levels of performance and memory bandwidth to power high-end creative applications ... With multiple advanced AMD Radeon Pro GPUs to choose from, customers can select the best Mac Pro configuration to tackle the heaviest of workloads, unleash creativity and increase productivity."

Customers can add the Radeon Pro W5700X to the Mac Pro on the Apple Store website starting today. Adding one card increases the price of the Mac Pro by $600 while two cards bring the cost up by $1600.

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Seek reveals total Australian IT job ads dipped by a third during coronavirus pandemic

The sector was a leading contributor to the decline in overall job ads in March.

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Samsung taps Xilinx's Versal adaptive compute platform for commercial 5G deployments

Xilinx said its adaptive compute systems will help strengthen Samsung's signal processing performance for 5G.

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States that don't require you to file a state tax return (and how they tax you instead) - CNET

Not every state has state income tax, saving you from the extra paperwork come tax season. But they still find ways to get your money.

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Coronavirus: How to track the spread across the world as deaths hit 100,000 - CNET

An online dashboard shows all confirmed, suspected and recovered coronavirus patients, as well as deaths.

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The best espresso machine for 2020 - CNET

Looking for a home espresso machine? The Breville Barista Express is still the best deal.

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The best cheap HP laptop deals for April 2020

Need a new PC? Here are the best cheap HP laptop deals available right now, from 2-in-1s to gaming machines.

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The best TVs for 2020

Looking for a fantastic new TV? Our well-tailored list will help you cut through the rough to find a diamond.

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The best soundbars for 2020

You no longer have to sacrifice sound for size when buying home audio equipment. Here are the best soundbars.

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Logitech's Magic Keyboard alternative for the iPad is now available

Go pro without having a pro iPad.

What you need to know

• Logitech has launched its new keyboard case for the 7th generation iPad.
• The case features a trackpad and backlit keyboard.
• It is available now for $149.95 and is available now on Apple's website.

Apple surprised everyone by not only announcing the anticipated iPhone SE today but also making the Magic Keyboard for iPad Pro available to order. While it is sure to be a hit with iPad Pro users who are looking for a trackpad and backlit keys for their tablet, regular iPad users were left out. Logitech has stepped in to create something just for customers who want more from their regular iPad.

The Logitech Combo Touch Keyboard Case with Trackpad for iPad has launched today on Apple's website. It is a Magic Keyboard alternative that brings some of the best parts of Apple's high-end keyboard case to owners of the 7th generation iPad for half the cost.

Logitech's keyboard case boasts a trackpad, full-size backlit keyboard, and loop for storing your Apple Pencil.

"Logitech's Combo Touch for iPad combines a precision trackpad with a full-size backlit keyboard. Navigate your iPad with familiar gestures or quickly and easily position a cursor to edit spreadsheets, documents, and presentations. Enjoy comfortable typing on a full-size keyboard with backlit keys that are perfect for working in dark environments like on an airplane or late at night. And the flexible design supports four use modes for extra versatility."

The integrated trackpad supports Apple's Multi-Touch gestures and the backlit keys allow you to keep using your keyboard well into the night. Logitech has also a built-in row of shortcut keys for quick access to things like the iPad Home screen, Siri, and Search.

For those who don't need an iPad Pro but want a lot of the experience coming to Apple's pro tablet, Logitech's keyboard case seems like a perfect solution.

The Logitech Combo Touch Keyboard Case with Trackpad for iPad is available to order now on the Apple Store website for $149.95 with a delivery date as soon as Friday, April 17th.

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Apple drops the price of AppleCare+ for the iPhone SE (2020) to just $79

Protecting your new iPhone SE just got more affordable.

What you need to know

• AppleCare+ for the iPhone SE is only $79.
• This marks a $50 decrease for the plan compared to the iPhone 8.
• AppleCare+ with Theft and Loss is also available for $149.

Today, Apple launched its new iPhone SE with an iPhone 8 inspired form factor, a new camera, and the A13 processor found within its flagship iPhone 11 and iPhone 11 Pro.

Not only did Apple just launch its new low-cost iPhone at an impressive starting price of $399, but it also made protecting the phone a lot more affordable as well.

The two-year AppleCare+ protection plan for the iPhone SE is only $79. For comparison, AppleCare+ had cost $129 for the now-discontinued iPhone 8, Apple's previous low-cost iPhone in its lineup. This new price marks an almost forty percent reduction in the cost of Apple's protection plan for its entry-level iPhone.

Apple is not only offering the AppleCare+ plan as a one-time payment of $79.00 but is also making it available in the form of a monthly payment plan for $3.99 a month.

One of the benefits of the monthly plan is that you can cancel and save money if you end up upgrading from your iPhone SE in less than a year and a half. You can also continue your coverage for more than two years if you decide to keep your iPhone SE, something not available to customers who purchase the two-year plan upfront.

AppleCare+ includes coverage for defects in hardware, software support, and two incidents of accidental damage. For those who also want coverage from loss or theft, Apple is also offering AppleCare+ with Theft and Loss for $7.99 a month or a one-time payment of $149.00.

Those considering adding AppleCare+ to their new iPhone SE can do so during checkout or within sixty days of purchase.

New New New

iPhone SE (2020)

From $399 at Apple

Everything old is new again.

The iPhone SE (2020) is Apple's latest low-cost iPhone and it's got everything you'd want in a sub-$500 phone in 2020.

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What you need to know to buy an iPhone with Apple Card Monthly Installments

It's not an upgrade program and it's not a bank loan. So what exactly is Apple Card Monthly Installments?

Apple is making it easier and easier for people with all different financial backgrounds to get an iPhone. You can buy one outright, make monthly payments using the iPhone Payments plan, get a new one every year on the iPhone Upgrade Program, and now you can buy one on credit with your Apple Credit card. Here's how it works and what you'll need to know to buy an iPhone with Apple Card Monthly Installments.

What exactly are Apple Card Monthly Installments?

Apple Card Monthly Installments is an interest-free way to buy your new iPhone with payments that are spread out over two years. If you have an Apple Card, or plan on applying for one, you can finance your iPhone with Goldman Sachs. A set dollar amount (depending on which iPhone you buy) will be charged to your Apple Card each month.

There's no application to fill out, no pre-approval necessary. If you have an Apple Card and your credit is in good standing with Goldman Sachs, you're good to go. All you have to do is select Apple Card Monthly Installments when buying your new iPhone.

How is this different from the iPhone Payments Plan?

The biggest difference between the two is that you have to be approved for the iPhone Payments Plan but you're already approved if you have an Apple Card. There are a couple of additional differences, too.

With iPhone Payments, you are taking out a loan from Citizens Bank. The Bank will run a credit check on you (a soft pull) to determine your eligibility.

With Apple Card Monthly Installments, you are promising to pay for the total cost of the iPhone by paying your credit card bill each month. If you buy the most expensive iPhone at, say, $60 per month, but only pay $30 a couple of those months, you won't get in trouble.

When you apply for an iPhone Payments loan you are required to select a carrier, though you will still be getting an unlocked phone. If you select Apple Card Monthly Installments as your payment method, you can buy a SIM-free iPhone, instead. You are also not locked into a specific carrier for two years. You can switch to a different carrier at any time.

Which iPhones are eligible for Apple Card Monthly Installments?

The 2020 iPhone lineup includes:

• iPhone SE (2020)
• iPhone 11 Pro and Pro Max
• iPhone 11
• iPhone XR

You can pick any of these phones SIM-free or with AT&T, Sprint, T-Mobile, or Verizon as your carrier.

What about iPads? Macs?

At this time, iPhones are the only devices eligible for Apple Card Monthly Installments.

I heard I can get the 3% cashback all upfront

You heard correctly. When you purchase your iPhone using Apple Card Monthly Installments, 3% of the total amount off your purchase is sent to your Daily Cash balance right away.

Of course, just like anything you purchase, that 3% is subject to any changes you make. If you return the iPhone, you'll lose that cashback reward.

Can I buy a SIM-free iPhone?

You can! That's one of the things that makes this particular payment plan so interesting. You can either buy your iPhone SIM-free or pick a carrier option when you purchase.

Can I switch carriers while still paying my Apple Card Monthly Installments?

Absolutely. Though you may pick a carrier when you first buy your iPhone on the Apple Card Monthly Installment plan, you're not required to stick with that same carrier for the two years you're paying off the iPhone. It's similar to buying an iPhone outright, except that you don't have to drop all that money upfront.

Do I have to be approved for Apple Card Monthly Installments?

Only if you're applying for an Apple Card. If you already have an Apple Card, there is no application and no approval process.

With that in mind, your credit must be in good standing with Goldman Sachs. If you have a history of missed payments or you've overextended your credit line, you may not be able to use Apple Card Monthly Installments.

What if my Apple Card credit line is too low to buy the new iPhone?

Remember, you're not buying the iPhone at full price outright on your Apple Card. You're making monthly payments, which range from about $17 for the iPhone SE up to about $60 per month for an iPhone 11 Pro Max with the highest storage capacity.

If your Apple Card balance can't support even a $60 per month charge, you probably shouldn't be buying a new phone right now anyway.

What is the interest rate?

The interest rate on the Apple Card Monthly Installments plan is 0%. Keep in mind, however, that your Apple Card has its own interest rate. If you pay off the balance every month, you'll never pay interest. If you carry a balance from one month to the next, you'll have to pay whatever your Apple Card interest rate is.

Will there be a hard credit pull?

There is no credit approval process unless you are applying for an Apple Card. If you are applying for an Apple Card, you will be subject to the standard credit approval process.

Who is eligible?

Anyone with an Apple Card. Apple Card is available to qualified applicants in the U.S. that are 18 years of age or older.

Can I trade in an old iPhone?

You can. Trading in an old iPhone can lower the cost of your new iPhone which, in turn, lowers your monthly charge.

Trade-in values for your old iPhone are as follows:

• iPhone SE - Up to $30
• iPhone 6 - Up to $30
• iPhone 6 Plus - Up to $50
• iPhone 6s - Up to $80
• iPhone 6s Plus - Up to $100
• iPhone 7 - Up to $120
• iPhone 7 Plus - Up to $250
• iPhone 8 - Up to $170
• iPhone 8 Plus - Up to $250
• iPhone X - Up to $320
• iPhone XR - Up to $300
• iPhone XS - Up to $420
• iPhone XS Max - Up to $500

What if I'm already on the iPhone Upgrade Program?

You can't transfer the payment of the iPhone on your iPhone Upgrade Program plan to the Apple Card Monthly Installments Plan. If you're in the middle of your 24-month contract on the iPhone Upgrade Program, I recommend you finish off the program unless you're willing to either pay off what you owe for the iPhone on the iPhone Upgrade Program in its entirety or carry two different installment plans at the same time (one for the iPhone Upgrade Program and one for the iPhone Payments plan). The latter would mean you'd have two phones.

Any more questions?

If you have any additional questions about how Apple Card Monthly Installments work, please put them in the comments and we'll find the answer and add it to this FAQ for you.

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The latest version of Harry Potter: Wizards Unite is rolling out

Harry Potter: Wizards Unite's latest update is rolling out now.

What you need to know

• Version 2.12.0 is rolling out now to Harry Potter: Wizards Unite.
• Changes to Port Keys include increased rewards and decreased distance requirements.
• Additional changes include the ability to login with Apple ID, more control over push notifications, and the removal of Landmarks.

In addition to plans to introduce the Knight Bus and remote play, Niantic just announced the latest version of Harry Potter: Wizards Unite. Version 2.12.0 is rolling out now and brings a list of changes and updates to the game. This latest update will cut the distance requirements for Portkeys in half. Both 5 KM and 10 KM Portkeys will also be getting a boost, providing more Wizarding XP and Spell Energy. One final gameplay change, until further notice, all Landmarks will be removed from the map. Landmarks, the flags found throughout the map, indicate areas where certain types of Traces appear more often, comparable to Nests in Pokémon Go. It was unclear if the flags indicating these areas only are being removed or if the areas themselves will no longer be more likely to spawn specific Traces.

Changes are coming to the login as well. Players on iOS devices will be able to log in using their Apple ID. The login screen will display the player's login provider, code name, and email address. Both the settings and start up screens have gotten a make-over to better display linked email addresses, as well as loading times. On top of all that, players will now be able to control push notifications for both Portkeys and Gifts.

What are your thoughts on this latest version of Harry Potter: Wizards Unite? Are you excited for the boosts to Portkeys, or bummed out over the loss of Landmarks? Let us know in the comments below, and be sure to check out our many Harry Potter: Wizards Unite guides to take your game to the next level!

Harry Potter accessories we love

Hogwarts phone case

$10 at Amazon

Show your love of the Potterverse, and protect your phone with this beautiful faux-leather case. The Hogwarts crest burns bright on the front with plenty of room inside for some cash and cards too.

RAVPower Ace

$40 at Amazon

You don't want to run out of juice while battling baddies in Fortresses, now do you? Make sure you've got backup power with this quality but inexpensive

Hogwarts House PopSocket

$15 at Amazon

Represent your house with a secure way to grip your phone while walking on your magical adventure casting spells and securing Foundables.

Harry Potter Over The Ear Headphones

$25 at Amazon

Show your love of Harry Potter to the whole world, while shutting that same world out with these funky headphones from ihome.

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What ‘Payment Status Not Available’ on the IRS coronavirus aid site means

Graphics by Michele Doying / The Verge

The United States Internal Revenue Service launched a website for tracking coronavirus stimulus checks today, but some users are getting told their payment status is “not available,” and even after an official explanation was posted online, they have basically no way of knowing what’s wrong.

The new IRS “Get My Payment” portal is supposed to help people find out if they’re eligible for one of the $1,200 relief checks that are being sent to many Americans, and then let them enter bank account information for a direct deposit or tell them that the payment has been processed. The idea is to speed the release of money that many citizens desperately need. But the system has shown many people the confounding error message of “Payment Status...

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Google is slowing down hiring through 2020 amid the COVID-19 pandemic

Photo by Amelia Holowaty Krales / The Verge

Google says it will slow hiring for the remainder of 2020 and adjust its investments in areas like data centers and marketing amid the COVID-19 pandemic, according to an email from CEO Sundar Pichai sent to Google employees that was obtained by Bloomberg. Google confirmed the authenticity of the email to The Verge.

“We’ll be slowing down the pace of hiring, while maintaining momentum in a small number of strategic areas, and onboarding the many people who’ve been hired but haven’t started yet,” Google said in a statement to The Verge.

“We believe now is the time to significantly slow down the pace of hiring”

“We believe now is the time to significantly slow down the pace of hiring, while maintaining momentum in a small number of...

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Wappalyzer discloses security breach after hacker starts emailing users

Wappalyzer tells ZDNet that only 16,000 users have been impacted in the incident.

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Google to slow hiring for rest of year amid coronavirus pandemic - CNET

The search giant could face slumps as the digital advertising industry struggles.

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The best espresso machine for 2020 - CNET

Looking for a home espresso machine? The Breville Barista Express is still the best deal.

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Coronavirus updates: Trump says new social distancing guidelines coming, cases hit 2M worldwide - CNET

Plus: Trump pulls WHO funding, California unveils steps to reopen and 80 million Americans expected to get stimulus checks this week.

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