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Google’s AI-driven Search capabilities have dramatically transformed the way we conduct online research. Rather than wading through endless search results, most users now simply read the AI Overview and move on. Google intends to shift this behavior. The tech giant is introducing five new features to AI Mode and AI Overviews that aim to display more clickable links and provide users with stronger incentives to visit the underlying websites.

Deeper Discovery and Contextual Links

The standout new feature is Further Exploration, a dedicated section that appears at the bottom of AI Overviews, offering curated links to specific articles, case studies, or reports relevant to your query. For instance, if you search for how cities are increasing green spaces, Google might show links to a stream restoration project in Seoul or a report on the design of New York’s High Line park. This feature is designed to encourage users to continue their research rather than closing the tab immediately after reading the summary.

Google

Google is also embedding more links directly within AI responses, positioned next to the relevant text rather than grouped at the bottom. For example, searching for a California bike trip might show a link to a Pacific Coast touring guide next to a bullet point about terrain, and a training blog post next to a bullet point about daily mileage. This approach provides users with a more direct path from the AI answer to the source material behind it.

Google

Google

On desktop, hovering over any inline link will trigger a preview showing the website name and page title, which is aimed at giving users more confidence about visiting the website. Google’s internal testing found that users were more hesitant to follow links when they could not tell where they led, so the preview removes that friction before the click.

Google

Subscriptions and Community Perspectives

AI Mode and AI Overviews will now label links from a user’s active news subscriptions so they stand out in results. Google says early testing showed users were significantly more likely to click those labeled links. For subscribers, it means the publications they already pay for will be easier to find inside AI search results rather than buried below them.

Google

AI responses will also begin surfacing previews of perspectives from public forums, like Reddit, social media, and firsthand sources, with added context like a creator’s handle or community name.

Google

Google

A search about photographing the northern lights, for example, might surface tips from a specific photography forum, with a link to the full discussion thread. Thanks to this, users who want real-world advice rather than a synthesized summary will have a clearer path to the people who have actually been there.

Google

The Bigger Picture

These updates also carry real stakes for publishers. AI Overviews have raised concerns across the media industry about declining referral traffic, and these features are Google’s most direct attempt yet to show that AI search and the open web can coexist. Whether they move the needle on click-through rates will be worth watching.

AI Overview accuracy, however, remains an open question. It has a history of confidently stating wrong information, and the featured image for this story is a reminder of that: it misidentifies today’s date as May 20, 2025. Getting users to click through to publishers may be a step in the right direction, but it’s hard to fully trust a guide that does not always know what day it is.

Microsoft is finally addressing a long-standing complaint from Windows 11 users: File Explorer suffers from sluggishness that a quicker launch time alone cannot resolve.

According to Microsoft’s recent update, the company is implementing a comprehensive performance strategy for the Windows 11 File Explorer. This includes targeted adjustments to startup processes, disk operations, visual rendering delays, and application stability.

These issues impact daily workflows significantly. Tasks like navigating folders, loading thumbnails, opening context menus, and dealing with minor freezes can make the file manager feel unnecessarily heavy and unresponsive.

Why Quicker Launches Aren’t Enough

Microsoft’s previous solution involved preloading File Explorer to keep essential components ready in the background. While this reduces the initial wait time when clicking the icon, it doesn’t address the app’s performance after it opens.

Paulo Vargas / Techgeeks

However, this approach has drawbacks. A Windows Latest test found that preloading consumes approximately 35MB of RAM. While this may seem minor on modern systems, it reinforces the argument that Microsoft is using memory to mask underlying code inefficiencies.

Paulo Vargas / Digital Trends

The real issues occur after the application launches. Large directories may still load slowly, and right-click menus can lag. Microsoft’s new strategy is more robust as it addresses the sequence of startup tasks, eliminates redundant visual processing, reduces disk access, and prevents application freezes.

Inside the File Explorer Update

Tali Roth, Microsoft’s Head of Product for Windows Shell, outlined the File Explorer roadmap as a dual-pronged effort combining startup optimizations with deeper engineering improvements.

When I talk about work we’re doing to make Windows more reliable, performant, and crafted, there’s been a category of comments that I will…politely 😉… summarize as “prove it”. No doubt we’ve got more to do, but excited to share what we’ve delivered so far! https://t.co/oKE94G8b0X

— Tali Roth 🪟 (@TeaAndDates) May 1, 2026

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The Windows Shell team is focusing on the most noticeable user experiences. Efforts include optimizing load sequences, stripping out superfluous animations, minimizing disk reads, and stabilizing the app to prevent hangs.

These improvements target areas that preloading cannot fix. The goal is a file manager that opens instantly, populates folders without lag, and keeps thumbnails and menus responsive.

Looking Ahead

Microsoft plans to deploy these File Explorer optimizations gradually over the next few months. The true test will be whether average Windows 11 users perceive a tangible improvement once these changes reach stable releases.

Preliminary feedback is promising. Recent builds have reportedly enhanced navigation smoothness, eliminated the flashing artifact in dark mode, and begun integrating modern UI elements into older File Explorer components.

A specific release date for the general public has not been set. Once the updates arrive, users should monitor everyday interactions—folder loading, thumbnail generation, context menu responsiveness, and overall fluidity. These are the key indicators that Microsoft needs to demonstrate to prove Windows 11’s file manager is genuinely faster.

Xiaomi has frequently faced criticism for drawing inspiration from Apple. However, the roles may soon reverse. The Chinese tech giant has extended its paid battery upgrade initiative in China to include the Xiaomi 13, Xiaomi 13 Pro, and Xiaomi 13 Ultra.

In contrast to standard battery replacements that merely swap depleted cells for identical ones, Xiaomi is providing larger-capacity batteries to enhance the longevity of older devices.

Hold On… A Battery Boost Years After Launch?

Xiaomi 13 Ultra Andy Boxall / Digital Trends

According to information provided by Xiaomi President Lu Weibing on Weibo, the base Xiaomi 13 will see its battery capacity increase from 4,500mAh to 4,850mAh. The Xiaomi 13 Pro will experience a more substantial upgrade, jumping from 4,820mAh to 5,361mAh, while the Xiaomi 13 Ultra will move from 5,000mAh to 5,500mAh. While these increments are smaller than those seen in its latest flagship devices, they represent a significant enhancement for phones that are nearly four years old.

Furthermore, the cost is remarkably low.

The service is priced at 189 Yuan (approximately $27), which covers both parts and labor. Xiaomi cautions that availability might be restricted, indicating this is not yet a globally accessible program. Nevertheless, the concept is compelling. As smartphone manufacturers increasingly promote extended software support and longer device lifecycles, an official higher-capacity battery swap aligns perfectly with this trend. It not only restores but enhances battery performance, much like an OTA update improves software functionality.

Parilov / Shutterstock

Apple Should Take Note

Apple already provides battery replacements for older iPhones, which is commendable. However, Xiaomi’s strategy is more innovative because it transforms a repair into an upgrade. Picture bringing an older iPhone in for service and receiving a certified, higher-capacity battery crafted by Apple, optimized through iOS, and backed by official support. This would make battery replacement more attractive than merely restoring the device to its original battery performance.

The recently released Steam Controller from Valve has already sold out upon launch. However, in a move characteristic of the company, Valve is now empowering enthusiasts by sharing the design blueprints. The company has published the CAD files for the Steam Controller’s outer shell, enabling users to download the exterior specifications and design custom accessories or replacement casings.

The Significance of This Release

New Steam Controller Valve

These files are distributed under a Creative Commons license, making them highly valuable for modders, 3D-printing enthusiasts, and accessory developers. It is important to clarify that these files only cover the controller’s outer shell and do not provide a complete blueprint for rebuilding the Steam Controller from the ground up. Consequently, users cannot 3D print the internal functional components of the gamepad.

New Steam Controller Valve

However, this release does pave the way for creative experimentation and customization. Users can now design alternative grips, custom casings, docking stations, protective cases, puck accessories, and other enhancements based on Valve’s official specifications. This approach highlights an enthusiast-centric design philosophy, making Valve’s controller more attractive to a specialized audience.

Valve’s Distinctive Approach to Hardware

While most companies restrict accessory designs and force third-party developers to rely on measurements, scans, and trial-and-error, Valve is adopting a more transparent strategy by providing official design data from the outset.

Steam Controller ran out faster than we anticipated, and we hate that not everyone who wanted one was able to get it. We’re working on getting more in stock and will have an update on expected timeline soon.

— Valve (@valvesoftware) May 5, 2026

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This strategy aligns well with Valve’s broader hardware ethos. Through the Steam Deck, SteamOS, and its long-standing support for PC modding culture, Valve has consistently encouraged user tinkering rather than opposing it. The Steam Controller is just one component of Valve’s expanding hardware lineup, which also features the forthcoming Steam Machine and Steam Frame VR headset.

Currently, the Steam Controller is already sold out, causing frustration among those eager to experience Valve’s innovative PC-friendly gamepad controls. While the release of CAD files does not address the inventory shortage, it does make the accessory feel more open and community-friendly.

The newly launched Steam Controller from Valve has just been released and is already completely sold out. However, in a move that perfectly embodies Valve’s philosophy, the company is now providing the design files to the public. Valve has made the CAD renders for the Steam Controller’s shell available, allowing users to download the exterior design and develop custom accessories or alternative casings.

Why this matters

New Steam Controller Valve

The files are currently available under a Creative Commons license, making them particularly valuable for modders, 3D-printing enthusiasts, and accessory creators. It is important to note that these files only cover the controller’s exterior, not a complete blueprint for rebuilding the Steam Controller from the ground up. Therefore, you cannot 3D print the internal components that make the gamepad functional.

What this does enable is a wide range of experimentation and modification. Users can design alternative grips, custom shells, docks, cases, puck accessories, or other add-ons based on Valve’s official dimensions. This clearly represents an enthusiast-friendly approach, making Valve’s controller more attractive to a niche audience.

How Valve’s controller stands apart

Most companies keep accessories tightly controlled and allow third-party brands to figure things out through measurements, scans, and trial-and-error. Valve is taking a more open approach by providing creators with official design data from the beginning.

Steam Controller ran out faster than we anticipated, and we hate that not everyone who wanted one was able to get it. We’re working on getting more in stock and will have an update on expected timeline soon.

— Valve (@valvesoftware) May 5, 2026

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This aligns perfectly with the company’s broader hardware philosophy. Between the Steam Deck, SteamOS, and its long-standing relationship with PC modding culture, Valve has consistently embraced user tinkering rather than resisting it. The Steam Controller is also just one piece of Valve’s larger hardware revival, which includes the upcoming Steam Machine and Steam Frame VR headset.

As of right now, the Steam Controller is already sold out. This early shortage is already frustrating for many who wanted to try Valve’s new take on PC-friendly gamepad controls right away. The CAD file release does not solve the stock problem, though it at least feels less like a closed accessory.

Although Techgeeks Chrome remains the leading web browser, it faces growing competition from the latest generation of AI-driven browsers, such as Perplexity Comet, Dia, and others. To maintain its market position, Google is integrating advanced AI capabilities into Chrome, a move that isn’t inherently negative, yet this particular implementation crosses a line.

Check your file manager for a directory named “OptGuideOnDeviceModel”. If it exists, Chrome has been utilizing your storage as an internal server. Within this folder lies “weights.bin”, a 4 GB file housing Gemini Nano, Google’s local AI model.

Privacy expert Alexander Hanff uncovered and recorded this behavior via macOS file system logs, which monitor all file creation and modification events at the OS level.

On a brand-new Chrome profile with no user interaction, the full 4 GB model installed in under 15 minutes while a tab remained idle.

Was This Action User-Requested?

It wasn’t. Chrome does not seek permission before installing the model; it proceeds automatically. The model downloads silently once Chrome determines your device meets its specifications, long before you interact with any AI functionality.

Google Chrome

If you locate and remove the file, Chrome will re-download it upon the next launch. Hanff observed that “the user’s deletion is treated as a transient state to be corrected, not as a directive to be respected.”

The situation becomes more complex. The most prominent AI feature in Chrome, the “AI Mode” pill in the address bar, does not utilize the local model. Instead, it forwards your queries to Google Gemini servers. The on-device model supports hidden features like “Help me write” in text fields and local scam detection.

What Are the Consequences and How to Disable It?

While this may appear to only impact your device’s storage, Hanff highlighted its broader environmental effect. He calculates that if 500 million devices received this download, the bandwidth alone would generate approximately 30,000 tonnes of CO2 emissions, comparable to 6,500 cars operating for a full year, and this figure only covers delivery, not usage.

Rachit Agarwal / /d

Google must require user confirmation for this download. Currently, you can prevent it by navigating to “chrome://flags”. Search for “Enables optimization guide on device” and disable it. It requires more steps than necessary, but it is effective.

Even though Google Chrome remains the dominant web browser, it is facing increasing competition from a new generation of AI-driven browsers, such as Perplexity Comet, Dia, and others. In an effort to remain competitive, Google is integrating advanced AI capabilities into Chrome. While this development is not inherently negative, the company’s latest approach has crossed a line.

Check your file manager for a directory named “OptGuideOnDeviceModel.” If this folder exists, Chrome is utilizing your hard drive space as a local server. Within this directory lies a file named “weights.bin,” which is approximately 4 GB in size and contains Gemini Nano, Google’s on-device artificial intelligence model.

Privacy expert Alexander Hanff identified and recorded this activity using macOS file system event logs, which monitor all file creation and modification at the operating system level.

On a brand-new Chrome profile that received absolutely no user interaction, the full 4 GB model was installed in less than 15 minutes while a tab was simply open.

Was This Installation Requested by Users?

Absolutely not. Chrome does not seek user permission before installing the model; it proceeds independently. The model automatically downloads once Chrome determines that your hardware meets the necessary specifications, long before you interact with any AI functionalities.

Google Chrome

Furthermore, if you locate and remove this file, Chrome will automatically re-download it upon the next launch. Hanff observed that “the user’s deletion is treated as a transient state to be corrected, not as a directive to be respected.”

The situation becomes even more complex. The most prominent AI feature in Chrome, the “AI Mode” button in the address bar, does not utilize the local model. Instead, it forwards your queries to Google Gemini servers. The on-device model is reserved for less visible functions such as “Help me write” in text fields and local scam detection.

What Are the Consequences and How Can You Disable It?

While this may appear to only impact your storage capacity, Hanff highlighted its broader environmental consequences. He calculated that if 500 million devices downloaded this file, the bandwidth consumption alone would result in approximately 30,000 tonnes of CO2 emissions, comparable to 6,500 cars operating for a full year, and this figure only accounts for the download process, not subsequent usage.

Rachit Agarwal / /d

Google should require explicit user confirmation for such downloads. In the meantime, you can prevent this by navigating to “chrome://flags”. Search for “Enables optimization guide on device” and disable the option. Although the process is more involved than it should be, it is effective.

Microsoft’s newest Windows 11 update focuses its efforts on the performance hiccups that users actually experience. KB5083631, an optional preview update for Windows 11 versions 24H2 and 25H2, addresses memory leaks, slow boot times, and File Explorer behavior that can make the operating system feel sluggish.

This release has a clearer objective than simply tweaking the user interface. Microsoft aims to eliminate the friction caused by services consuming excessive RAM, applications taking too long to launch after a restart, or File Explorer leaving explorer.exe running in the background even after its windows are closed.

Identifying RAM Drain

The primary performance improvement targets Delivery Optimization, the background service responsible for Windows Update and Microsoft Store downloads. This service has been associated with memory leaks and unusually high RAM consumption, so reducing its resource footprint could significantly benefit PCs that are already struggling.

Paulo Vargas / Techgeeks

Startup applications are also receiving attention. Programs listed under Settings, Apps, Startup should launch more quickly after a reboot, which is particularly beneficial for work computers and older laptops that already struggle with crowded startup lists.

File Explorer also sees improvements. The update enhances explorer.exe behavior so the process properly terminates after File Explorer windows are closed, rather than lingering in the background and consuming resources.

Additional Improvements

The update also resolves File Explorer’s dark mode flash, saved View and Sort preferences, taskbar system tray loading issues, and crashes related to Task View, taskbar menus, and Quick Access.

While these fixes may seem minor on paper, they impact the parts of Windows used constantly. Cleaner startup behavior, retained folder layouts, fewer stuck processes, and fewer visual glitches can make a PC easier to live with, even when raw speed gains are hard to measure.

Monica J. White / Techgeeks

There are still limitations. Microsoft is promising fixes that sound meaningful, but users won’t know how much their own PCs improve until the update is installed and tested in daily use.

The Update Path to Watch

Most people don’t need to rush into the optional preview release. It’s available now for users who manually check for updates and choose to get the latest Windows 11 changes early, but the same fixes are scheduled to reach everyone through the May 12, 2026 Patch Tuesday update.

That timing makes the mandatory release the safer default for anyone who depends on a stable PC for work or school. It will bundle these performance changes with security updates.

For now, KB5083631 is best suited to users dealing with obvious slowdowns, high background memory use, dark mode flashes, or lingering explorer.exe processes. Everyone else can wait a few days and still get the fixes without chasing a preview build.

Transforming Dance Footage into an Advanced Rehearsal Aid

Cornell Chronicle

The standout feature of DanXeReflect is its ability to convert standard 2D video into a virtual space where motion is represented by interactive avatars. This allows dancers to avoid the limitations of watching footage on a flat monitor. Instead, they can observe the choreography from a novel angle and analyze it in conjunction with their own physical movements.

Cornell Chronicle

Functioning as a digital mirror, the tool enables a dancer to replicate a specific pose, after which DanXeReflect aligns that posture with avatar sequences to identify the best match. The corresponding avatar is then displayed within the virtual mirror and next to the user in the VR environment. This differs from typical video review methods by providing a 3D rehearsal partner that demonstrates recorded motions.

The Benefits for Dancers

Cornell Chronicle

Hyunju Kim, a Cornell Tech doctoral student in information science, noted that the concept was inspired by the way dancers naturally communicate about movement. They frequently demonstrate choreography physically rather than relying on verbal descriptions. DanXeReflect builds upon this approach by enabling dancers to execute revised movements alongside the original ones. The system also allows users to search a choreography database by mimicking poses and adding time-stamped comments directly to specific areas of the virtual avatar.

Cornell Chronicle

The team interviewed six Martha Graham dance professionals, including experienced dancers, directors, and a former performer. They subsequently recruited nine female dancers from various styles such as street, jazz, ballroom, and ballet. Participants utilized DanXeReflect for post-rehearsal video review, with one noting that it significantly improved their comprehension of 3D movement. This instance highlights a practical application of VR technology, demonstrating how headsets can assist individuals in analyzing and enhancing real-world physical abilities.

Apple’s pricing tactics are poised to become… intriguing once more. Following the unexpected launch of the budget-friendly MacBook Neo, the tech giant may be preparing to execute a comparable maneuver with its upcoming flagship smartphone. In this instance, however, the spotlight falls squarely on the Pro variants.

Reports indicate Apple is adopting a bold pricing approach for the iPhone 18 Pro?

According to a fresh analysis by industry observer Jeff Pu, Apple intends to implement “aggressive pricing” for the iPhone 18 Pro series, though perhaps not in the conventional manner. As detailed by 9to5Mac, the plan appears to be more intricate than a straightforward price increase across the board.

Mo3ath photos / Pexels

The core concept revolves around repositioning the Pro tier rather than simply inflating prices across the board. Apple might expand the distinction between standard iPhones and Pro models, enhancing the premium feel of the high-end devices while keeping entry-level options affordable to sustain overall sales volume.

Mo3ath photos / Pexels

Jeremy Bezanger / Unsplash

This approach mirrors Apple’s recent conduct. The company has historically absorbed escalating costs rather than immediately passing them to consumers, particularly when demand might suffer. However, with Pro devices, there is greater flexibility to adjust pricing without significantly impacting sales volume.

Jeremy Bezanger / Unsplash

Applying the Neo Strategy to iPhones

The MacBook Neo demonstrated that Apple is open to experimenting with pricing at both ends of the market spectrum. On one hand, there is a surprisingly affordable MacBook designed to broaden the user base. On the other, Apple could be making its Pro iPhones feel even more exclusive by further widening the price gap.

Nadeem Sarwar / Techgeeks

This dual strategy enables Apple to cater to both markets. It can attract new customers with lower entry prices while maximizing revenue from users eager to pay for top-tier hardware. Given that iPhones remain Apple’s primary revenue source, even minor adjustments in pricing strategy can yield significant results.

Nadeem Sarwar / Digital Trends

Will the iPhone 18 Pro Actually Cost More?

This remains the central question. Some rumors indicate that prices might stay relatively stable in certain markets to protect demand, particularly in price-sensitive regions. Meanwhile, increasing component costs, especially memory driven by AI demand, are squeezing margins across the industry.

Unsplash

Consequently, “aggressive pricing” might not necessarily translate to a massive price hike. It could involve smarter product segmentation, region-specific adjustments, or subtle increases that reinforce the Pro lineup’s premium status without deterring potential buyers.

Unsplash