Category: Technologies

  • Today Only: Samsung OLED S95D TVs Are Up to $400 Off

    Today Only: Samsung OLED S95D TVs Are Up to $400 Off

    Samsung has created TVs that can hold their own against the glare of bright rooms, making it possible to enjoy your favorite shows without having to deprive yourself of natural light. If you’ve been looking for a reliable OLED TV, today is your lucky day. Samsung is offering discounts on its trusty OLED S95D series TVs right now, meaning you can snag a 55-inch OLED 95D for only $2,300, down from its regular price of $2,600.

    Samsung has equipped this series of TVs with OLED technology that lets you see pure blacks and bright whites, bringing your favorite films, shows and video games to life. Anti-glare technology lets you enjoy your TV binges during the day without pesky visual disturbances that can prevent you from seeing every last detail. Additionally, these TVs also feature OLED’s HDR pro, which improves brightness so you can have an immersive experience.

    Gamers will also enjoy the S95D’s Motion Xcelerator 144Hz, a feature that reduces lag and blurriness. But Samsung also designed this TV with Dolby Atmos and Object Tracking Sound Plus. These features provide a multichannel sonic experience even as objects on the screen move. S95D TVs include the NQ4 AI Gen2 Processor, an AI processor that powers every feature included in this TV.

    Here’s a list of every Samsung OLED S95D on sale today in addition to the 55-inch model:

    Amazon and Best Buy are matching these specials today as well. Best Buy is also including free installation for TVs over 56 inches, which amounts to a discount of $250 and added peace of mind.

  • New HMD Phones Combine Low Price With DIY Repair and Battery Replacement

    New HMD Phones Combine Low Price With DIY Repair and Battery Replacement

    Would you be more likely to buy a phone if you knew that you’d be able to repair it at home if you smashed the screen? Finland-based phone-maker HMD is hoping you will, as it unveils its first own-brand phone series designed around the concept of repairability.

    HMD is best known for making Nokia phones — both the smart and dumb varieties — but now it’s branching out by making phones with its own name stamped on the back. On Wednesday it unveiled its first three own-brand devices, the HMD Pulse, Pulse Pro and Pulse Plus. The Pulse, priced at 100 (around $125 or AU$190 converted), and the Pulse Plus, priced at 130 ($160, AU$250) are available to purchase immediately in some markets, whereas the Pulse Pro is currently listed as “coming soon.”

    The most exciting of the three devices is the HMD Pulse Pro, which has 50-megapixel cameras on both the back and front, meaning that your selfies will be the same quality as the photos you take with the main camera. The three phones also share many features and attributes, including a Unisoc T606 processor, Android 14, and a focus on affordability and repairability. With all three devices, you can replace a damaged display, bent charging port or a depleted battery in just a few minutes using simple tools.

    The ability to repair your own device at home is an increasingly desirable feature in new tech hitting the market. Extending the life of products means you need to shell out less frequently to replace tech that otherwise would be discarded, which in turn reduces e-waste and causes less harm to the environment. It’s a win-win for consumers and for the planet.

    Read more: Fairphone 5 Review: The Phone That Wants to Save the World

    Some tech companies, including Apple and Samsung, run their own repair programs, but there’s a growing movement to allow people to repair their own devices. Online community, advocacy group and parts retailer iFixit has been a staunch advocate of the right-to-repair movement, and over the past few years has started partnering with tech companies, including HMD, to allow people to buy affordable repair kits specific to their tech.

    “HMD’s ongoing commitment to designing phones with repairability in mind is an encouraging shift in our throwaway culture, proving that HMD has the innovative culture needed to drive advances in repairability,” said iFixit CEO Kyle Wiens in a statement. “We’re keen to collaborate as they work towards making repairable phones the norm, not the exception.”

    HMD phone cross-section

    In 2023, one in every four phones HMD sold was repairable. This year, the company is aiming to make that three in every four. For the HMD Pulse, Pulse Pro and Pulse Plus, owners will be able to buy a self-repair kit and spare parts from iFixit starting at 18 ($22 or AU$35). It’s a continuation of the partnership between the two companies that’s also seen repair kits available for HMD’s Nokia smartphones.

    The big difference between HMD’s own-brand phones and its Nokia devices seems to be in the design. The Pulse phones are more angular and feature a more pronounced camera module. They also come in a range of fun but muted colors, including “twilight purple.”

    “There is an audience who would buy whatever phone just because it’s repairable,” HMD’s CMO Lars Silberbauer told me in February this year, when I spoke to him at MWC in Barcelona and the company first announced it would be making its own phones. “But if you want to reach the masses, then you need to have something that’s also desirable.”

    The Pulse series is HMD’s first attempt to create a desirable and repairable phone that aims to attract Gen Z as it begins its journey as a fledgling phone brand. It’s a crowded market, but being a step ahead where it comes to repairability might just give HMD a competitive edge.

  • Proton VPN Review 2024: The Best Free VPN, With an Excellent Paid Plan

    Proton VPN Review 2024: The Best Free VPN, With an Excellent Paid Plan

    Our Experts

    Written by

    Moe Long
    Moe Long Senior Editor
    Moe enjoys making technical content digestible and fun. As a writer and editor for over a decade, he has bylines at MakeUseOf, WhistleOut, TechBeacon, DZone, Tech Up Your Life, and Electromaker. When he’s not hammering away at the keyboard, Moe enjoys spending time with his partner and dog, listening to vinyl, and watching film.
    Expertise Apps, operating systems, software
    Why You Can Trust CNET
    1600170018001900200021002200230024002500

    Speed Tests

    11121314151617181920

    Eval. Points

    01020304050607080910

    VPNs Tested

    We intensively test each VPN, making sure it meets our standards for privacy, speed and usability.

    proton-logo2

    8.4/ 10
    SCORE

    Proton VPN

    Buy at ProtonVPN

    Pros

    • Outstanding privacy and transparency
    • Open-source apps
    • Linux GUI app
    • Excellent for streaming
    • Lots of worldwide servers
    • 10 simultaneous connections
    • Great free plan

    Cons

    • No Apple TV app
    • Lacks 24/7 live chat
    • Middling prices
    • App design could be more user-friendly

    The Swiss company Proton — which offers a suite of applications, including its Proton Mail email client and Proton Pass password manager — concentrates on critical privacy needs for power users. Proton boasts impressive transparency, complete with open-source apps and a reader-friendly privacy policy. Its advanced features, like Tor over VPN and a Linux graphical user interface, or GUI, app make Proton VPN a good choice for advanced users, while its excellent streaming performance means Proton works well for casual entertainment as well.

    Aside from its feature-rich paid plans, Proton provides the best free VPN tier — and the only no-cost option we recommend. Unlike other free VPNs, Proton doesn’t plaster your screen with ads, throttle your internet speeds or sell your data on its no-cost plan. But a large international server network and generous simultaneous device policy justify Proton VPN’s paid offering.

    In my comprehensive look at Proton VPN, I ran over 250 internet speed tests and scoured its privacy policy searching for red flags. I also tried each of its available apps, streamed videos on services including Netflix to assess its geo-unblocking capabilities and checked for DNS leaks. I’d like an Apple TV app, which would be convenient for streaming on a smart TV, and Proton’s interface isn’t quite as intuitive as the super streamlined apps available from competitors like ExpressVPN or NordVPN. However, Proton VPN is a worthy option for everyone from privacy-concerned users like political activists to folks seeking a virtual private network for streaming.

    Read more: How We Test VPNs

    Proton VPN speed: Plenty fast for everything from streaming and gaming to working from home

    • Average speed loss: 21%
    • Number of servers: 4,400-plus
    • Number of countries: More than 90

    All VPNs slow down your internet download and upload speeds somewhat because you’re routing your web traffic through a server, then to its app or website destination rather than a more direct connection. We find around a 25% or lower average internet speed loss plenty fast. I ran over 250 individual internet speed tests across six different international servers using OpenVPN, WireGuard and the IKEv2 VPN protocols on both MacOS and Windows. In my benchmarking, I measured a 21% average speed loss. For comparison, that’s slower than NordVPN’s best-in-class 11% average and Surfshark’s 17%, but faster than ExpressVPN’s 25%. Its respectable connection reduction means Proton VPN is suitable for bandwidth-intensive applications like 4K video streaming, Zoom calls or uploading videos to YouTube.

    I clocked the slowest speeds on Windows with 24.5% on WireGuard and 29.44% with OpenVPN. WireGuard is a newer VPN protocol that typically provides faster speeds than OpenVPN, so those results were as expected. Proton managed a blazing-fast 11.16% speed loss on MacOS with IKEv2. Strangely, I actually experienced faster internet speeds with a VPN enabled using WireGuard on MacOS, which I suspect is a result of ISP throttling. Circumventing throttling restrictions from internet service providers or mobile carriers is one of many reasons to use a VPN — and Proton successfully performed well in my experience, making my connection faster with a VPN enabled on my MacBook Air M2.

    Usually, geographically distant servers cause greater speed loss than closer servers. Although I found this to be true with Proton, even when tapped into a server in Singapore (far from my home office in North Carolina), my internet connection only dipped an average 36%. During everyday use, even while watching 4K ultra-high-definition videos, I never experienced any stutters, buffering or slowdowns.

    Proton provides a robust selection of servers that jostles with its competitors

    Touting over 4,400 servers peppered throughout over 90 countries, Proton offers nearly as many international locations as rivals ExpressVPN, NordVPN, Sursfhark and PIA with their 90-plus country server fleets. Proton VPN’s extensive web of servers is great for regular international travelers.

    Key takeaway: Proton features a large network of international servers and works well enough for daily use, even with bandwidth-heavy applications like gaming, 4K video streaming or hopping on Zoom calls thanks to a modest 21% average internet speed loss.

    Read more: How to Speed Up Your VPN Connection

    Value: Not the most expensive VPN on the market, but not the cheapest either

    • $10 per month, $72 per year or $120 for two years
    • Money-back guarantee: 30 days
    • Payment options: Credit card, debit card, PayPal, Bitcoin
    • Apps available for: Windows, MacOS, Linux, iOS, iPadOS, Android, Android TV, Chromebooks, Browsers

    Pricing for Proton Plus (its standalone VPN offering) begins at $10 per month, which undercuts most of its competitors by anywhere from $1 to $5 — Surfshark is $15.45 per month, while NordVPN and ExpressVPN both set you back $13 per month. Like most other VPN providers, Proton’s annual and two-year plans deliver even greater savings, running $72 annually for two years. Notably, I don’t recommend shelling out for more than a year of service with a VPN provider at once. Over the course of a year, much can change, like your VPN provider getting acquired by a shady company or suffering a data breach, and shorter subscriptions give you more flexibility.

    Proton is cheaper than ExpressVPN ($100 per year or $60 for six months), although it charges more upfront than NordVPN ($60 per year or $96 for two years, then $100 annually) and the value-packed Surfshark ($48 annually or $60 for two years, then $60 per year). Ultimately, Proton’s one- and two-year plan prices are decidedly middle of the road: You’ll pay less than premium providers, but more than many value-priced VPN companies.

    But unlike many VPN providers, including Nord, Proton doesn’t saddle you with price hikes. By contrast, Nord’s attractive introductory rate spikes to $100 annually. (Notably, you can purchase discounted NordVPN subscriptions that stack, letting you save, but price hikes require you to monitor your subscription more closely.) I appreciate Proton’s price transparency, which is a breath of fresh air among all-too-common price hikes in the VPN industry — it’s nice not having to babysit your subscription to avoid an expensive auto-renewal.

    Aside from its VPN-only Proton VPN Plus plan, the Proton Unlimited bundle package adds an email client, calendar, cloud storage and a password manager. You’ll pay $13 each month, $120 per year or $192 every two years for the all-inclusive Proton Unlimited.

    Proton’s free plan is the best — and only — no-cost VPN I recommend, even with its limitations

    In addition to its paid Proton Plus and Unlimited packages, Proton includes a great free plan. With fast internet speeds, no ads and unlimited usage, Proton is the only no-cost VPN we recommend. The zero-dollar option comes with limitations, namely a one-device restriction and access to only five servers (Japan, Netherlands, United States, Poland and Romania).

    However, you can’t manually select a server; instead, Proton’s free plan automatically connects you to an optimal server. Using profiles lets you customize the Quick Connect settings, but because that’s relegated to the premium plans, free users are stuck using the default settings, which tap into the fastest servers.

    Nevertheless, it’s tough to complain when you’re not paying a dime. Many free VPN plans sell your data or plaster your screen with ads, so Proton’s free plan restrictions are acceptable trade-offs. By tunneling you through an optimal server rather than letting you pick on its free tier, Proton ensures a great experience with fast connection speeds without costing you any money — after all, servers aren’t free to operate, so this solution is better than the alternative, which would be selling your data or littering your screen with advertisements.

    Proton VPN app performance

    Proton features apps for nearly every platform. Alongside the usual suspects of Windows, MacOS, Android and iOS/iPadOS, Proton apps are available for Android TV devices, Linux PCs and web browsers. Whereas many VPN providers such as Nord and Express offer command-line Linux apps, Proton boasts a full-fledged Linux graphical user interface application. Its Linux GUI app remains more user-friendly than command-line apps which require memorizing — or looking up — the right prompts to enter for basic tasks like changing servers. Additionally, the Linux Proton app offers more functionality than most CLI apps, such as split tunneling capabilities. Proton worked like a champ on my Kubuntu Focus M2 Linux gaming laptop.

    Unfortunately, there’s no Apple TV app, which might disappoint entertainment enthusiasts ingrained in Apple’s ecosystem. Although TVOS Apple TV VPN support is still fairly recent, companies including ExpressVPN and NordVPN rolled out Apple TV apps. However, you can use Proton with devices without dedicated apps, such as Apple TV streaming boxes, by installing a VPN on your router for whole-home coverage — helpfully, Proton has a guide to accomplishing this.

    In my testing, I found Proton’s apps chock-full of useful features. Quick Connect taps you into an ideal server based on your geographic location, and in my experience, Proton was zippy establishing VPN tunnels. There’s a lot of granular control, like the ability to customize your connection settings using profiles. With its profiles, you can tap a button for seamless tunneling through preferred servers. Out-of-the-box, Proton includes two profiles, Fastest and Random. But you can make your own custom profiles, selecting options such as preferred countries and VPN protocols.

    Proton ran well on all platforms. Split tunneling — which lets you use a VPN for some apps but not others — worked flawlessly on my Windows PC and Android phone. I successfully streamed an episode of Luther from BBC iPlayer using a UK server, while excluding Steam from my VPN tunnel so as to experience the fastest possible internet download speeds while installing Alien Isolation. Because of its focus on advanced users, Proton tacks on a bevy of settings to tinker with. While Proton’s vast array of settings makes it highly flexible, it’s nevertheless pretty user-friendly.

    During my hands-on assessment, the Android app improved meaningfully, rolling out an easy-to-navigate interface. Although Proton’s apps aren’t difficult, they’re not as streamlined as the more intuitive albeit minimalist ExpressVPN. Put simply, I didn’t have any issues using Proton, but it’s not a VPN I’d install on my non-techie parents’ computer. Folks with little to no experience with VPNs may find Proton slightly involved, though by no means overly complex. For instance, NordVPN features a specialty servers section in its app that explains the different types of servers — file sharing (P2P), Double VPN, Obfuscated and Onion Over VPN. Contrastingly, Proton relies on icons that specify streaming and file sharing are allowed on servers, which aren’t as obvious to decipher. That’s not to say Proton’s apps are challenging to use, however other VPN providers’ apps — like ExpressVPN — are merely more intuitive.

    Its Android TV app lacks split tunneling. In all fairness, most folks simply seeking a VPN for watching Netflix or Disney Plus won’t need split tunneling on a streaming device. Unless you’re running a home server off of your streaming device and want to transfer files over your home network — I’m using my Nvidia Shield TV Pro as a Plex media server — or want to watch foreign Netflix libraries with a VPN while downloading apps from your region without a VPN simultaneously, you’re probably fine. Still, Proton’s decision to nix split tunneling from its Android TV app is odd considering their focus on power users, particularly when NordVPN and ExpressVPN both tout this feature on Android TV.

    Proton VPN is an outstanding choice for streaming service unblocking

    While Proton caters to privacy-concerned users, it’s excellent for entertainment enthusiasts with top-notch region-restricted content unblocking capabilities. VPNs are great for streaming for two specific streaming purposes: accessing content from your home country while abroad and unblocking international videos. Impressively, Proton unblocked every region-restricted service I threw at it. I streamed Barbie on Max (formerly HBO Max) and Oppenheimer on Peacock, so if you’re traveling in Europe, you could connect to US servers with Proton to have your own international Barbenheimmer event. It also handled Hulu, Sling TV and YouTube TV flawlessly, making this a great VPN for streaming sports while roaming internationally.

    Likewise, Proton unblocked global streaming sites including BBC iPlayer and the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC) with aplomb. I had no issues accessing US and UK Netflix, Disney Plus and Amazon Prime Video libraries. Using Proton set to a UK server, I watched The Abyss on Disney Plus (normally on Hulu in the US), The Little Things on Netflix (a Max original Stateside) and Paper Girls on Prime Video. In fact, Proton unblocked every international Netflix library I tried — including some countries like Egypt that rivals such as NordVPN didn’t load. Coupled with its fantastic geo-restricted content unblocking, Proton’s fast internet speed passthrough solidifies it as one of the best VPNs for Netflix.

    I tested its streaming prowess on an array of devices including my Windows desktop, Linux laptop, a MacBook Air, an iPad, an Android phone, a Chromecast with Google TV Android TV box and an Amazon Fire TV stick. Each device I tried performed swimmingly. Even when streaming 4K ultra high-definition content, like Murder on the Orient Express on Netflix using an Egyptian VPN server, video quality was buttery-smooth.

    Proton lacks 24/7 live chat, but features great help guides and FAQs

    Proton’s Support Center boasts great setup guides, information about account information or billing, plus troubleshooting tips. For instance, you’ll find tutorials explaining how to install Proton VPN on different platforms, like Android, iOS and Linux. Additionally, the Proton blog is a solid resource for learning about VPN encryption, why a VPN slows down your internet and what dedicated IP addresses are.

    However, whereas most VPN providers, like ExpressVPN and NordVPN, offer 24/7 live chat, Proton doesn’t. There is a live chat, but it’s only for existing customers — you’ll need to log in to use it. By contrast, I was able to chat with customer service representatives at Nord and PIA without logging in, a major advantage for prospective customers seeking information before signing up. But even Proton’s support for users is limited to certain hours: 9:00 AM to 11:59 PM CET. Alternatively, you can contact Proton via email or Twitter.

    In my testing, Proton’s live chat customer support representatives were friendly, responsive (I waited less than a minute in the queue, although your experience may vary) and knowledgeable. I asked a question about an Apple TV app, which Proton doesn’t yet have, and was directed to a help article about running a VPN on a router. Particularly with its focus on power users, I understand why Proton doesn’t provide live 24/7 customer support. I’m guessing that’s probably an expensive service to offer, particularly if Proton suspects its user base might use it infrequently. Nixing live chat keeps Proton’s own costs low, and therefore translates to modestly priced subscriptions for you as the end user. Still, VPN beginners may prefer a company with around-the-clock live chat.

    Key takeaway: Proton’s mid-pack paid plan prices are offset by its strong commitment to privacy and transparency as well as its excellent streaming service geo-unblocking.

    Privacy and transparency

    • Jurisdiction: Switzerland (not in the Five, Nine or 14 Eyes)
    • Encryption: AES-256 or ChaCha20
    • Open-source apps
    • No DNS leaks detected
    • Independently audited
    • Protocols available: WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEV2/IPSec or Stealth

    Proton is a great VPN for folks with critical privacy needs, like political activists, investigative journalists or asylum-seekers. Its Swiss jurisdiction sits outside of the Five, Nine and 14 Eyes intelligence-sharing communities. Countries within intelligence-sharing alliances agree to pass information back and forth. While no-logging policies and RAM-only servers theoretically mitigate data aggregation concerns, people with serious privacy needs might be wary of VPN companies headquartered in an intelligence-sharing alliance — and Proton negates that worry.

    In addition to the usual slate of privacy features, like AES 256-bit or ChaCha20 encryption depending on your VPN protocol and a kill switch, Proton goes beyond many of its rivals. During my testing, its kill switch worked flawlessly, preventing my actual IP address from leaking in the event of a spontaneous internet disconnect. All of its apps are open-source, meaning curious users can inspect the source code, thereby ensuring that its software remains free of security vulnerabilities. Only a handful of other VPNs, including PIA, provide open-source apps. I appreciate this next-level transparency.

    Similar to most VPN companies, Proton maintains a stringent no-logging policy. While you can andshould remain skeptical of zero-logging braggadocio, Proton underwent a successful third-party audit to verify its software security. Proton maintains a transparency report, as well as a warrant canary. While it’s decent, the transparency report remains fairly barebones. Aside from proclaiming that under Swiss law, Proton isn’t required to save connection logs and restating its no-log policy, the transparency report lists a single January 2019 Swiss court data request, which Proton couldn’t comply with because it doesn’t save customer IP addresses.

    Advanced features: Secure Core servers, Tor over VPN, extra encryption and a VPN accelerator

    Fitting with its focus on privacy, Proton packs several advanced features. Its double VPN Secure Core servers tunnel your traffic through Proton VPN servers with extra protection — including biometric security — before routing through your selected location. Its Secure Core servers are physically located in Switzerland, Sweden and Iceland. By using a double VPN, you’ll enjoy even stronger encryption — twice that of a single VPN — thereby making it even more difficult to uncover your actual IP address. Proton’s Tor over VPN servers accomplish a similar feat of bolstering your encryption, but using The Onion Router instead of a second VPN connection.

    While Proton touts AES 256-bit encryption for OpenVPN and IKEv2, it sports ChaCha20 encryption with WireGuard. The ChaCha20 cipher delivers effectively the same security, but with generally faster internet speeds. Alongside WireGuard, OpenVPN and IKEv2/IPsec VPN protocols, Proton boasts its proprietary Stealth. As the name suggests, the Stealth VPN protocol obfuscates your connection, masking the fact that you’re using a VPN. If you’re using a website that doesn’t play nicely with virtual private networks or on school Wi-Fi where VPNs may be frowned upon, Proton’s Stealth could be a nifty solution to keep your virtual private network running without being detected by apps or internet service providers (ISPs).

    All VPNs slow down your connection somewhat, with the fastest VPNs dropping your internet speeds by as little as an 11% average. Generally, we find a speed loss of around 20% perfectly acceptable. Proton’s VPN Accelerator boosts internet speeds by using multiple CPU cores instead of a single core to enhance internet speeds. It also reduces networking latency for a more reliable internet connection. In my benchmarks with Ookla’s speed test, I didn’t notice much of a difference between the speeds with or without the VPN Accelerator toggled on. A Proton spokesperson told me via email that the VPN Accelerator makes the most difference on internet connections with high packet loss — like satellite internet or weak mobile data networks. Because of my Google Fiber internet, I didn’t notice a difference. Even on my phone with a reliable 5G signal, VPN Accelerator didn’t boost my speeds noticeably. But on an unstable network, like using Wi-Fi at your favorite coffee shop, VPN Accelerator might come in handy.

    Notably, the MacOS client lacks OpenVPN support, although you get Proton’s proprietary Stealth protocol, which provides many of the same benefits, namely obfuscation (which makes it tougher for ISPs or apps to determine that you’re using a VPN). You can set up OpenVPN on Macs using TunnelBlick, although it’s not as user-friendly as the official Proton app. While OpenVPN is a great choice for privacy-conscious users, Stealth is a good alternative. Just like NordVPN uses its proprietary NordLynx protocol and Express uses LightWay, I’m OK with Proton using Stealth — particularly because its apps are all open-source, meaning anyone can inspect the source code to look for bugs or vulnerabilities.

    Curiously, Proton lacks RAM-only servers. With a RAM-only server infrastructure, the server runs completely on random access memory, or RAM. Each time the server is turned on and off, all information, such as your connection log, is completely wiped out. Many privacy-minded competitors, like NordVPN, rely on RAM-only servers. The forward-thinking ExpressVPN’s TrustedServer technology takes RAM-only servers a step further by reinstalling the software stack upon every boot and utilizing proprietary post-quantum protection.

    However, Proton employs full-disk encryption on its VPN servers; so long as no data from your VPN session is written to a hard disk, there’s not much reason to fret over not having RAM servers. Coupled with its annual no-logs audits, you shouldn’t worry about your VPN session data being recorded. Additionally, Proton sports open-source apps and jurisdiction outside of the Five, Nine and 14 Eyes, which compensate for its traditional bare metal instead of RAM-only server infrastructure. Despite its lack of RAM servers, Proton’s amenities, including a kill switch, Tor VPN servers and a double VPN, make it a great choice for even folks with critical privacy needs.

    Proton VPN has a reader-friendly privacy policy, undergoes regular third-party audits and publishes a decent transparency report

    The Proton VPN privacy policy is extremely clear about what it does and doesn’t log:

    “Proton VPN is a no-logs VPN service. When you use the Service, we do NOT do any of the following:

    • Log users’ traffic or the content of any communications
    • Discriminate against devices, protocols, or applications
    • Throttle your Internet connection

    “Our free VPN service is also covered by our no-logs policy, and has in general no speed restrictions. We do reserve the right to impose speed restrictions in cases of excessive consumption in order to ensure service quality for all users on free servers.

    “All Proton VPN servers are encrypted and we do not log VPN session data.”

    In its main privacy policy, Proton re-affirms its commitment to maintaining user data privacy:

    “Our overriding policy is to collect as little user information (personal data included) as possible to ensure a private user experience when using the Services. We do not have the technical means to access the content of your encrypted emails, files, calendar events, passwords, or notes.”

    I like how easily deciphered Proton’s VPN privacy policy is. After poring over it, I didn’t detect any red flags, or even yellow flags for that matter.

    Proton VPN passed a no-logs audit by Securitum in 2022, and then again in 2023. I appreciate Proton’s annual audit cadence, which is quickly becoming the industry standard for VPN providers. Additionally, Proton maintains a transparency report showcasing the number of legal requests each year, how many were complied with and the number contested. Proton’s transparency report is more detailed than some of its competitors, like NordVPN. But the transparency report isn’t as comprehensive as CyberGhost’s, for instance. I’d like to see Proton add historical data, like Cyberghost’s comparisons of legal requests year-over-year, but that’s a nice-to-have rather than a dealbreaker. As-is, Proton does a great job.

    Proton’s non-VPN offerings may log IP addresses in rare circumstances

    As TechCrunch reported in 2021, Proton Mail — the company’s email client — complied with a request for a user’s IP address. Proton is obligated to comply with legal requests from Swiss authorities; under Swiss law, email and VPNs are treated differently. A Proton spokesperson said via email “…Swiss law treats VPN and email services differently. Under Swiss law, VPN services cannot be forced or compelled to log IP addresses, whereas email providers can under certain law enforcement circumstances. Proton VPN has a strict no-logging policy.”

    Although the IP logging doesn’t pertain to the VPN offering, I could see how this might be off-putting for folks considering other Proton services, like its email client, especially with how the company caters to those with serious privacy needs. Proton elaborated on its IP logging practices via email: “In the case of Proton Mail, we do not keep permanent IP logs by default. However, IP logs may be kept temporarily to combat abuse and fraud. Users’ IP address may be retained permanently if they are engaged in activities that breach our terms and conditions (e.g. spamming, DDoS attacks against our infrastructure, brute force attacks). Proton is unable to share browsing information, the contents of emails, files, calendar entries or other personal data as these are encrypted and under no circumstances can Proton decrypt end-to-end encrypted content.”

    Thankfully, your files are still encrypted, so the little data Proton may be legally obliged to hand over to Swiss authorities would be limited to IP addresses. Privacy-focused users may be worried nonetheless, even if just about false positives.

    In an ideal world, Proton — and other VPN companies for that matter — would be able to completely deny all legal requests. As Proton’s transparency report reveals, the company contests legal requests, but in some instances must comply. Overall, Proton does a great job fighting for its users while also complying with local laws when it has no other choice.

    After poring over its privacy policy, I like how Proton makes this legal complexity as reader-friendly as possible. Its VPN transparency report explains the differences in how Swiss law handles email versus VPNs, reading: “Under Swiss law, Proton VPN is not obligated to save connection logs, and we adhere to a strict no-logs VPN policy. Therefore, we are unable to comply with requests for user connection logs, even if they are legally binding. Furthermore, under Swiss law, a Warrant Canary is not meaningful, because under Swiss law, the target of a surveillance or data request must always be eventually notified, so they have the opportunity to contest the data request.”

    Proton’s overall privacy policy is clear about its IP logging practices and data disclosures. Although Proton has to comply with Swiss law in some instances with its non-VPN software suite, I appreciate the transparency in the privacy policy, such that anyone can easily determine how their data is used (or not) and under what circumstances.

    Key takeaway: Proton’s open-source apps, reader-friendly privacy policy and robust privacy features make it one of the top VPNs for privacy-centric users such as activists or investigative journalists. While Proton doesn’t have RAM-only servers, its full-disk encryption is virtually as secure — RAM servers are a nice-to-have, not an essential VPN feature.

    Proton VPN is a solid choice for privacy-focused consumers, but works well for casual users seeking a VPN for streaming or gaming

    Proton VPN gets a lot right, especially for the privacy-focused crowd. Its open-source apps, excellent transparency and jurisdiction outside of data-sharing alliances all make it a solid choice for folks with serious privacy concerns. Thankfully for Linux buffs — many privacy- and security-minded users opt for Linux — Proton offers a Linux GUI app, which is considerably easier for beginners than a CLI-only program. But its outstanding streaming service unblocking means Proton is a good option for entertainment enthusiasts, not just power users. With a generous 10 simultaneous connections — the same as Nord, more than Express, but fewer than Surfshark, PIA and IPVanish — Proton is a decent VPN for multiple devices. While I found its premium plans well worth the upgrade, Proton provides a fantastic free plan that, despite a few limitations, doesn’t collect any data or serve ads.

    Because of its generous server network, excellent region-restricted content unblocking and modest prices, Proton stacks up well against the competition. A zippy 21% average internet speed loss solidifies Proton VPN as more than capable bandwidth-demanding applications like 4K streaming or video conferencing. Its apps aren’t quite as polished, so there may be a slight learning curve for VPN beginners. ExpressVPN, for example, features some of the most uncomplicated VPN apps available. Proton’s prices aren’t the highest, but could be lower — Surfshark’s unlimited simultaneous connections, feature-rich design and wallet-friendly subscriptions make it a compelling alternative to Proton. And there’s no Apple TV app yet, a strong selling point for casual users seeking a VPN for streaming that competitors NordVPN, ExpressVPN and PIA all offer.

    Nevertheless, Proton VPN’s niche privacy amenities are nearly unmatched, especially for power users. Proton’s apps give you plenty of options to tinker with and lots of granular control over settings like server connections. If you like to inspect source code, are a Linux user or have serious privacy needs, Proton is a worthwhile VPN solution.

  • Give Your iPhone a Security Boost With This iOS 17.4 Feature

    Give Your iPhone a Security Boost With This iOS 17.4 Feature

    When Apple released iOS 17.4 on March 5, the tech giant brought new features and bug fixes to your iPhone, like new emojis and virtual card numbers for your Apple Cash. The update also gave you more control over your iPhone’s security by adding more Stolen Device Protection settings.

    CNET Tech Tips logo

    Stolen Device Protection was introduced in iOS 17.3, and as CNET’s David Lumb reported, it puts an extra layer of security on some of your sensitive data. If you’re not in a known location, like your home, this feature requires you to enter your biometric information once, wait one hour, and then enter your information a second time to access it. Then you have to change some information (like changing your Apple ID password or turning Stolen Device Protection off).

    If you frequent a coffee shop or live in an apartment building and you lose your iPhone at one of these places, your data could still be at risk. Your iPhone might recognize these places as familiar locations and allow another person to bypass this security feature. With iOS 17.4, you can set your iPhone to always require a one-hour security delay, no matter where you are.

    Here’s how to make Stolen Device Protection always on.

    Read more: You Should Really Download iOS 17.4.1 Right Now

    How to always require a one-hour security delay

    1. Open Settings
    2. Tap Face ID & Passcode
    3. Scroll down and tap Stolen Device Protection
    4. Tap the toggle next to Stolen Device Protection if it’s not already enabled. If it’s already enabled go to the next step
    5. Tap Always under Require Security Delay

    Whether or not you’re in a familiar location like your home, your device will always require a one-hour security delay if you or someone else tries to access or change certain settings on your iPhone.

    Stolen Device Protection only protects a handful of settings, so you still have to take steps to protect your other information. For example, Apple notes you can still use your iPhone’s passcode to make purchases with Apple Pay, so Stolen Device Protection won’t totally protect your finances.

    Apple still recommends everyone turn Stolen Device Protection on, even if you don’t always require the one-hour security delay.

    For more on Apple, here is what new features could be coming to your iPhone with iOS 17.5 and everything included in iOS 17.4. You can also check out our iOS 17 cheat sheet.

  • Verum Coin (VERUM) Now Available on Dex-Trade: A Safe, Easy, and Affordable Trading Experience

    Verum Coin (VERUM) Now Available on Dex-Trade: A Safe, Easy, and Affordable Trading Experience

    It’s with great excitement that we announce the listing of Verum Coin (VERUM) on Dex-Trade Exchange! This significant development opens up new avenues for traders to diversify their portfolios and explore fresh trading opportunities.

    Supported Trading Pair: VERUM/USDT

    Why Choose Dex-Trade?

    Dex-Trade is renowned for its commitment to providing a secure, user-friendly, and cost-effective platform for cryptocurrency trading.
    Recognizing the importance of minimizing costs, Dex-Trade strives to offer minimal commissions to traders.

    The exchange caters to both novice and experienced traders, boasting robust liquidity in its order books, ensuring efficient trading regardless of order volume.

    For any inquiries or assistance, Dex-Trade’s dedicated support team is available round-the-clock to address traders’ needs promptly.

    For more information about Verum Coin (VERUM), traders are encouraged to visit the official website and explore the project’s social media channels:

    Official Website: https://verumcoin.info

    Twitter: https://twitter.com/verum_coin

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/verumcoin.info/

    GitHub: https://github.com/verumcoin

    Whitepaper: https://verumcoin.info/docs/Verum_Coin_White_Paper.pdf

    For inquiries, traders may contact:

    Official Email Address: info@bitcoinpay.trade / support@verumcoin.info

    Join traders on Dex-Trade Exchange and experience the future of cryptocurrency trading with Verum Coin!

  • You Should Update Your iPhone to iOS 17.4.1 Before iOS 17.5 Is Released

    You Should Update Your iPhone to iOS 17.4.1 Before iOS 17.5 Is Released

    While Apple is beta testing iOS 17.5, meaning it should be released soon, you should download iOS 17.4.1 now to patch some zero-day vulnerabilities. A zero-day vulnerability is a security flaw that can be used to access vulnerable systems in software or hardware, according to IBM.

    CNET Tech Tips logo

    To download the update, go to Settings > General > Software Update, tap Update Now and follow the onscreen prompts.

    “This update provides important bug fixes and security updates and is recommended for all users,” Apple wrote in the update’s description.

    Read more: All the Features iOS 17.4 Brought to Your iPhone

    Apple wrote in the update’s CVE entry — which stands for common vulnerabilities and exposures — that iOS 17.4.1 addresses two issues that could lead to arbitrary code execution. According to the IT services company Okta, arbitrary code execution could allow a third party to steal your data or hack your device for other nefarious purposes. Apple didn’t say these issues were actively exploited, but these issues could be exploited without this update.

    According to Apple, both issues were uncovered by Google’s Project Zero, a team of security analysts who research and report zero-day vulnerabilities in hardware and software.

    iOS 17.4.1 update information which reads this update provides important bug fixes and security updates and is recommended for all users.

    Apple released iOS 17.4.1 on March 21, more than two weeks after the tech giant released iOS 17.4. That update brought new features to your iPhone, like new Stolen Device Protection options and transcripts in Podcasts.

    For more on iOS 17, here are some features your iPhone could get with iOS 17.5 and all the features you may have missed iOS 17.3. You can also check out our iOS 17 cheat sheet.

  • Save Yourself Money on Future Trips With a Lifetime Subscription to OneAir Elite for Just $80

    Save Yourself Money on Future Trips With a Lifetime Subscription to OneAir Elite for Just $80

    Travelling is one of the best things in the world, but it’s also expensive. Whether it’s for a vacation or a work trip, being able to save money on flights, hotels and basically anything else you can, is a huge win.

    OneAir is a special app that can help you find the best deals for wherever you’re going, and you can grab a lifetime subscription to OneAir’s Elite plan today for just $80 on StackSocial. Given that the service usually costs $79 annually, you’ll be paying the same price to get lifetime access without recurring fees. That means more money for travel essentials or just splurging on nice restaurants wherever you end up.

    The OneAir Elite plan can save you up to $2,000 on every trip, giving you early access to deals on everything from airfares to hire cars. You’ll receive unpublished flight deals as well as secret hotel pricing you wouldn’t otherwise learn about. The catch? You’ll need to act soon — this deal is only going to run for a few more days.

    This subscription is a lifetime offer with no recurring fees, meaning you can book your dream vacation whenever you like and explore the world at a budget to suit you, not the airlines. There are other benefits as well, including personal one-on-one business- and first-class flight planning support and much more. All you have to do is get your lifetime membership ordered before the deal expires in a few days.

    If your budget is a little tighter but you still want some of the perks, StackSocial is also offering the OneAir Premium Plan for $40, which is just $11 more than the usual annual price for that plan. The primary difference between the two is that with Elite you have access to economy, business and first-class flight deals, whereas with the Premium it’s access to economy flights only.

    In the market for more vacation savings? We’ve rounded up several great travel deals to help you reduce the cost of your next trip by as much as possible.

  • HMD Pulse Phones Make Home Repair And Battery Replacement a Cinch

    HMD Pulse Phones Make Home Repair And Battery Replacement a Cinch

    Would you be more likely to buy a phone if you knew that you’d be able to repair it at home if you smashed the screen? Finland-based phone maker HMD is hoping you will, as it unveils its first own-brand phone series designed around the concept of repairability.

    HMD is best known for making Nokia phones — both the smart and dumb varieties — but now its branching out by making phones with its own name stamped on the back. On Wednesday it unveiled its first three own-brand devices, the HMD Pulse, Pulse Pro and Pulse Plus. The Pulse, priced at $124 ( 100), and the Pulse Plus, priced at $162 ( 130) are available to purchase immediately, whereas the Pulse Pro is currently listed as “coming soon.”

    The most exciting of the three devices is the HMD Pulse Pro, which has 50-megapixel cameras on both the back and front, meaning that your selfies will be the same quality as the photos you take with the main camera. The three phones also share many features and attributes, including a Unisoc T606 processor and a focus on affordability and repairability. With all three devices, you can replace a damaged display, bent charging port, or a depleted battery in just a few minutes using simple tools.

    The ability to repair your own device at home is an increasingly desirable feature in new tech hitting the market. Extending the life of products means you need to shell out less frequently to replace tech that otherwise would be discarded, which in turns reduces e-waste and causes less harm to the environment. It’s a win-win for consumers and for the planet.

    Some tech companies, including Apple and Samsung, run their own repairs programs, but there’s a growing movement to allow people to repair their own devices. Online community, advocacy group and parts retailer iFixit has been a staunch advocate of the right to repair movement, and over the past few years has started partnering with tech companies, including HMD, to allow people to buy affordable repair kits specific to their tech.

    “HMD’s ongoing commitment to designing phones with repairability in mind is an encouraging shift in our throwaway culture, proving that HMD has the innovative culture needed to drive advances in repairability,” said iFixit CEO Kyle Wiens in a statement. “We’re keen to collaborate as they work towards making repairable phones the norm, not the exception.”

    HMD phone cross-section

    In 2023, one in every four phones HMD sold was repairable. This year, the company is aiming to make that three in every four. For the HMD Pulse, Pulse Pro and Pulse Plus, owners will be able to buy a self-repair kit and spare parts from iFixit starting at $22 ( 18). It’s a continuation of the partnership between the two companies that’s also seen repair kits available for HMD’s Nokia smartphones.

    The big difference between HMD’s own-brand phones and its Nokia devices seems to be in the design. The Pulse phones are more angular and feature a more pronounced camera module. They also come in a range of fun but muted colors, including “Twilight Purple.”

    “There is an audience who would buy whatever phone just because it’s repairable,” HMD’s CMO Lars Silberbauer told me in February this year when I spoke to him at MWC in Barcelona and the company first announced it would be making its own phones. “But if you want to reach the masses, then you need to have something that’s also desirable.”

    The Pulse series is HMD’s first attempt at creating a desirable and repairable phone that will attract an emerging, Gen Z audience as it begins its journey as a fledgling phone brand. It’s a crowded market, but being a step ahead where it comes to repairability might just give HMD a competitive edge.

  • Best MacBook Air M2 Charger: Which One Should I Get?

    Best MacBook Air M2 Charger: Which One Should I Get?

    Our Experts

    Written by

    Mary-Elisabeth Combs
    Our expert, award-winning staff selects the products we cover and rigorously researches and tests our top picks. If you buy through our links, we may get a commission. Reviews ethics statement
    Mary-Elisabeth Combs Associate Writer
    Mary-Elisabeth is an associate writer on CNET’s How-To team. She’s a recent graduate of UNC-Chapel Hill’s English Department, and resides in Charlotte, North Carolina. On the How-To team, she covers a little bit of everything. When she’s not writing, she’s catching up on Formula 1 or reading.
    Why You Can Trust CNET
    16171819202122232425+

    Years of Experience

    14151617181920212223

    Hands-on Product Reviewers

    6,0007,0008,0009,00010,00011,00012,00013,00014,00015,000

    Sq. Feet of Lab Space

    CNET’s expert staff reviews and rates dozens of new products and services each month, building on more than a quarter century of expertise.

    Released in 2022, the MacBook Air M2 is still a great laptop — just ask our editorial director. When you take the plunge on a new laptop, Apple gives you the ability to configure it to your liking, including choosing memory, storage, a power adaptor and more. While choosing a power adaptor may seem the most trivial choice of the bunch, it can have a major impact on your daily work. That’s why we set out to weigh the pros and cons for you to answer the question: Which MacBook Air M2 charger should I get?

    When you go to buy a new MacBook Air M2, you will have the choice between three adapters: the 30-watt USB-C Power Adapter, the 35-watt Dual USB-C Port Compact Power Adapter and the 70-watt USB-C Power Adapter (Apple calls them 30W, 35W and 70W power adapters). It’s important to note that only the base $899 configuration gives you all three options. Bumping up to the $1,099 configuration — a CNET Editors’ Choice winner — gives you a choice between the 35- and 70-watt chargers. (The MacBook Air M2 used to come with the 67W USB-C Power Adapter before the 70W came along. Both configurations of the Air M2 are still compatible with the 67W charger, and you’ll save a little bit of money, too.)

    While it’s commonplace to have power options when configuring desktops, it’s out of the ordinary for laptops. Because of that, it might not be immediately clear which will be best for your needs. This list will give you a better idea of what each adapter offers so you can choose the best one for your needs.

    $29 at Amazon

    30W USB-C Power Adapter

    The 30-watt USB-C adapter is the standard adapter that long-time Apple fans will recognize. It comes in at 5.6 ounces (159 grams) and measures 3 by 2 by 2 inches (7.3 by 5.1 by 5.1 centimeters). Choosing this adapter will add no additional cost to your final total. It’s widely compatible with iPhones, iPads and Macs, but Apple recommends primarily using this adapter with your MacBook Air. The 30-watt USB-C adapter is a solid option for people who don’t want to think about their adapter. It does the job, and it does it well.

    $44 at Amazon

    35W Dual USB-C Port Compact Power Adapter

    The 35-watt Dual USB-C Port Compact Power Adapter is a new addition to Apple’s lineup of adapters. Coming in at 3.7 ounces (105 grams) and 1.9 by 1.9 by 1.1 inches (4.7 by 4.7 by 2.9 centimeters) it is a bit lighter than the 30-watt USB-C power adapter. The standout feature of this adapter is that it has two USB-C ports, meaning you can charge two devices at the same time. Much like the 30-watt USB-C adapter, you can use this charger with most devices, but Apple recommends this adapter for the MacBook Air. The 35-watt Dual USB-C Port Compact adapter is ideal for someone who has limited space and multiple devices that need charging. It is worth noting that choosing this adapter will add $20 to your MacBook Air M2 purchase.

    The 35-watt charger can also be purchased separately for $59, which is expensive. For almost $20 less, consider Anker’s 65-watt Nano II charger that’s more compact, has two USB-C and a USB-A port and has nearly double the power output.

    $52 at Target

    67W USB-C Power Adapter

    The 67-watt USB-C adapter is another option for MacBook Air buyers. It is the biggest adapter of the three, coming in at 7.2 ounces (204 grams) and 2.9 by 2.9 by 1.1 inches (7.5 by 7.4 by 2.9 centimeters). The biggest difference between this adapter and the 30-watt USB-C adapter is the 67-watt USB-C adapter’s charging time. It’s incredibly powerful, with it can charge a device from 0% to 50% in 30 minutes. To take advantage of the adapter’s superfast charging, Apple pairing it with the MacBook Air M2. Like the 35-watt Dual USB-C port compact adapter, choosing this power adapter will add $20 to your final total.

    Apple’s 67-watt charger is available separately for as low as $52. And as with the 35-watt adapter, there are less expensive third-party chargers, such as the $20 RAVPower PD Pioneer, which is smaller, lighter and supports fast charging.

  • Today’s Wordle Hints and Answer: Help for April 24, #1040

    Today’s Wordle Hints and Answer: Help for April 24, #1040

    Today’s Wordle answer isn’t the most frequently used word, but most of its letters are pretty common. If you’re stuck, though, read on.

    Every day, we’ll post hints and then the answer for the current day’s Wordle, just in case you need it.

    Today’s Wordle hints

    Warning: If you keep reading, you’ll see the Wordle answer for Wednesday, April 24, puzzle No. 1040. That could be a devastating spoiler for some players. But if you just need the answer — maybe you’re on your last guess and just don’t want to see an 800-game streak go poof — keep reading.

    Wordle hint No. 1: No repeats

    Today’s Wordle answer has no repeated letters.

    Wordle hint No. 2: Vowels

    There are two vowels in today’s Wordle answer.

    Wordle hint No. 3: Beginning

    Today’s Wordle answer starts with a vowel.

    Wordle hint No. 4: Starting letter

    Today’s Wordle answer starts with the letter O.

    Wordle hint No. 5: Meaning

    Today’s Wordle answer means the opposite of secret.

    TODAY’S WORDLE ANSWER

    Here comes the spoiler: Today’s Wordle answer is OVERT, meaning something that’s done publicly, not in secret. Add a C to OVERT and you get COVERT, which means just the opposite: secret or hidden.

    Yesterday’s Wordle answer

    Yesterday’s Wordle answer, No. 1039, April 23, was ROVER.

    Past Wordle answers

    April 19, No. 1035: RAISE

    April 20, No. 1036: LUCID

    April 21, No. 1037: JOLLY

    April 22, No. 1038: LASER

    Everyday Wordle tips

    I’ve written a lot about Wordle — from covering its 1,000th word to my list of the best starter words to a helpful two-step strategy to news about controversial word changes. I’ve even rounded up what I learned playing the hit online word puzzle for a full year. So if you’re rethinking your need for the actual answer, you might try tips from one of those stories.

    Still need a starter word? One person told me they just look around and choose a five-letter object that they’ve spotted to use as their starter word — such as COUCH or CHAIR. I tend to stick to starter words that have the most popular letters used in English words. I like TRAIN as a starter, though I have a friend who uses TRAIL. I’ve read that people use the financial term ROATE, but I like to use words I actually know.

    What is Wordle?

    If you read this far, you know how to play. You have six chances to guess a five-letter word, and the game gives you feedback as to whether the letters you’ve guessed are in the puzzle, and if they’re in the same spot where you guessed they are. The New York Times bought the game from creator Josh Wardle for seven figures in 2022. Wardle famously created the game for his partner, and let her narrow down the 12,000 five-letter words in the English language to just 2,500, creating the database of answers. It was convenient, too, that he has a name that plays off “word.”

    A Times spokesperson told me it lists the very first Wordle as appearing on June 19, 2021, and the paper celebrated the game’s 1000th word on March 15. Spoiler: That 1000th word was ERUPT. As in, “Dad will erupt if the Wordle is so tough he loses his streak.”

    There are other fun games in the Times Games stable. My latest addiction is Connections, which I think is trickier than Wordle. This is the game where you look at a grid of 16 words and try to put them into four groups of related words. Sometimes the relationships between the words are pretty out there — like the time when it was four words that all began with rock bands, such as “Rushmore” and “journeyman.” (Connections got a little sassy on April Fools’ Day with an all-emoji puzzle. Some gamers did NOT find that funny.)

    Spelling Bee is a popular Times game too. And there’s a new game that’s still in beta, Strands, which I’m trying to master.