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Asus’ new open earbuds are a wonderful companion for handheld gaming

Asus’ new open earbuds are a wonderful companion for handheld gaming

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The Cetra Open Wireless aren’t like most other gaming earbuds. They’re large, with an open-style design that rests just outside of your ears, letting game audio mix with sounds in your environment. These allow for immersion, but only if your environment is quiet enough. And turning them up might let those nearby hear what you’re listening to.

Even if you love open-style headphones as much as I do, you will probably agree that they are not the best choice for every listening scenario or all people. However, the Cetra Open are some of the most comfortable and feature-packed gaming earbuds I’ve tried, and the sound quality — while lacking in bass compared to earbuds that get a tight seal — leaves little to be desired. Plus, they ship with the best USB-C 2.4GHz audio transmitter available, one with a passthrough USB-C port that lets you charge your device or an accessory as you listen.

Before I started testing the Cetra Open, I spent most of my time alternating between the SteelSeries Arctis Buds and Sony InZone Buds while gaming, both of which come with active noise cancellation, a snug fit, good sound, and USB-C transmitters of varying sizes that make listening to games on my Steam Deck and Nintendo Switch 2 a breeze. However, I didn’t consider switching back to either once I started using the Cetra Open for numerous reasons. I’ve been playing Silent Hill F and Esoteric Ebb on my Steam Deck without feeling like I missed out on their phenomenal sound design. They work great with my PlayStation 5, too.

The case has enough room inside to stow both the earbuds and the pack-in USB-C transmitter. All the components are also magnetized, helping them easily fall into place.

It’s really nice to have a USB-C audio transmitter that doesn’t hog the entire port.

It’s certainly not the smallest charging case, but it does charge via USB-C.

You can use the included reflective band to connect the earbuds behind your neck, alleviating any concern about one falling off your ear.

I imagine several companies wish they had been the first to make the USB-C transmitter that Asus packages with the Cetra Open, as it elevates them to a must-own gadget if you play a lot of games on handhelds like the Switch 2 or Steam Deck. The transmitter has its limitations, though, such as only allowing for power passthrough — not video or data. Asus spokesperson Katie Grayum recently told The Verge that it supports up to 60W one-way charging, which, thankfully, is more than enough for modern gaming handhelds.

Sound-wise, the Cetra Open deliver full-bodied performance with surprisingly solid bass and mids thanks to Asus’ Phantom Bass feature (it’s on by default). I use them a lot during my workday to listen to music, but I enjoy using them most to game at night on the couch near my wife as she reads. I’m able to hear game audio at a reasonable volume and stay connected by hearing every part of our conversation, instead of yanking an earbud out and asking, “What’d you say?”

The hefty case charges via USB-C (it lacks wireless charging) and can charge the earbuds multiple times before running out of power. Asus claims the buds can last up to 16 hours per charge in Bluetooth mode with the RGB LEDs and mics off (fewer in 2.4GHz mode, which yields about 10 hours per charge in my testing). I’ve only had to charge the case twice while testing, and the buds themselves charge very quickly. I was able to take them from 70 percent capacity to fully charged in less than 20 minutes.

The Cetra Open boast multipoint connectivity, too, letting you connect to two Bluetooth devices at once or to one Bluetooth device while connected to its 2.4GHz transmitter. Switching between sources is mostly seamless and requires no buttons, though listening through two audio sources simultaneously isn’t supported.

An image that shows a person holding one of the Asus Cetra Open Wireless earbuds in a way to show its top-mounted button.

Both earbuds feature a top-mounted button that can be customized using the Gear Link site on PC or via the Armoury Crate mobile app.

Asus offers multiple ways to adjust earbud settings when you’re connected to the USB-C transmitter. On your phone, you can download the Armoury Crate app to dive into the options. On PC, you can simply use its browser-based Gear Link site — no download required. Both let you customize a host of audio and mic settings, as well as brightness and lighting effects. You can also change what happens when you press each of the earbud’s top-mounted buttons (custom commands can be set for single, double, triple, and quadruple presses). You can even switch the audio prompts between English and Chinese, or set it to play sounds instead of a prerecorded voice.

Great wireless earbuds for gaming already existed before the Cetra Open. The InZone Buds and Arctis Buds are the better choice if you value snug-fitting earbuds and active noise cancellation. However, Asus’ new earbuds are a fantastic set for different reasons. They’re comfortable and non-isolating, and their USB-C transmitter gives you more flexibility to charge your gadget while you game.

Photography by Cameron Faulkner / The Verge

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I have a confession to make… I don’t like summer.

Sure, I can get down with the beach, ice cream, and other delights that are certainly more enjoyable when it’s warm and sunny out. But I remain steadfast in my opinion that it’s actually the worst season of the year—and it’s only getting more unbearable.

Before you come for me, let me just say that there’s real science to back me up. Here are 5 research-proven reasons why summer low-key sucks.

1. Bugs, obviously

If there’s one thing we can all probably agree on, it’s that mosquitoes and ticks are horrible. When the weather warms and these blood-sucking parasites emerge in droves, it’s more than just a nuisance—it’s a serious public health issue.

Rates of insect-borne diseases such as West Nile virus, Lyme disease, and dengue fever surge in the summer as higher temperatures and humidity accelerate the reproduction, metabolisms, and biting rates of ticks and mosquitoes. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that 476,000 people in the U.S. may be diagnosed and treated for Lyme disease each year, and most cases are reported in late spring and summer.

As climate change leads to longer, hotter, and (in some places) wetter summers, rates of insect-borne diseases are rising. West Nile virus only surfaced in the U.S. in 1999 but has since become the country’s most common mosquito-borne illness, affecting thousands of people each year. Cases of Lyme disease, anaplasmosis, and Powassan encephalitis have more than doubled throughout the U.S. over the past two decades.

2. Rampant extreme weather

Deadly heatwaves, severe thunderstorms, floods, tornadoes, hurricanes, wildfires—all these weather extremes are more common in the summer. In fact, the U.S. tends to experience most billion-dollar disasters from April through August. The reasons are complex, but they largely stem from a warmer atmosphere that holds more energy and moisture, intensifying storm systems while also amplifying heat stress at the surface.

Summer heatwaves can be particularly dangerous, and they’re becoming more frequent and severe as global temperatures rise. The combination of extreme heat and humidity is one of the leading weather-related killers in the country, as it can exacerbate underlying illnesses and cause heatstroke. At the same time, warmer temperatures increase evaporation from the landscape, leading to drought and heightened wildfire risk. Smoke from wildfires also reduces air quality, wreaking havoc on public health.

At the same time, tropical cyclone activity ramps up during the summer—a result of warmer ocean waters, favorable wind shear patterns, and more atmospheric humidity and instability. These conditions also support severe thunderstorm development and contribute to tornado formation, particularly in the central United States.

3. Brutal utility bills

When that scorching summer heat sets in, utility costs skyrocket. That’s because households in most regions of the U.S. consume more electricity from July through August, when temperatures and cooling demand are at their peak. Nearly 90% of U.S. households cool their homes with air conditioning.

Thanks to climate change, it’s getting harder for air conditioning to beat the heat, and you’re paying the price. As global temperatures rise, people are running air conditioners more often and for longer periods of time. By 2050, the International Energy Agency expects to see a threefold increase in global air-conditioner-related energy demand, equivalent to adding 10 new units per second over the next three decades.

4. Killer UV radiation

Who doesn’t love slathering on greasy SPF every time they leave the house? Me, that’s who. I know we’re supposed to wear sunscreen all year round, but there’s no denying that the risk of UV exposure increases drastically in the summer—and some studies suggest it’s only getting worse.

Over the past five decades, incidence of malignant skin melanoma—the most aggressive skin cancer—has surged dramatically, with over 325,000 new cases reported worldwide in 2020. This increase has been linked to changes in UV radiation exposure driven by shifting atmospheric conditions, including cloud cover variability, aerosol concentrations, and surface reflectivity.

5. Increased violence

A growing body of evidence suggests that rates of violence and mass shootings increase during the summer, especially around the Fourth of July. According to PBS News, the Gun Violence Archive—a database that tracks mass shootings involving four or more people in the U.S.—shows that June, July, and August have had the highest total number of mass shootings over the past decade, while the lowest totals were from December through March.

On a global scale, rising temperatures have been linked to increases in homicides, assaults, sexual assaults, firearm violence, intimate partner violence, and violent suicides. This suggests that as summer heatwaves become more frequent and intense, incidents may occur more often.

There are several factors that could explain why the warmest months of the year have historically been the most violent. For one, people spend more time drinking and attending social events, which creates more opportunities for conflict, University of Miami criminologist Alex Piquero told PBS. Studies have also shown that heat can push people to a boiling point, resulting in heightened levels of stress and irritability.

#Reasons #Summer #Worst #Season #Yearextreme weather,Insects,public health,summer">5 Reasons Why Summer Is the Worst Season of the Year I have a confession to make… I don’t like summer. Sure, I can get down with the beach, ice cream, and other delights that are certainly more enjoyable when it’s warm and sunny out. But I remain steadfast in my opinion that it’s actually the worst season of the year—and it’s only getting more unbearable. Before you come for me, let me just say that there’s real science to back me up. Here are 5 research-proven reasons why summer low-key sucks. 1. Bugs, obviously If there’s one thing we can all probably agree on, it’s that mosquitoes and ticks are horrible. When the weather warms and these blood-sucking parasites emerge in droves, it’s more than just a nuisance—it’s a serious public health issue. Rates of insect-borne diseases such as West Nile virus, Lyme disease, and dengue fever surge in the summer as higher temperatures and humidity accelerate the reproduction, metabolisms, and biting rates of ticks and mosquitoes. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that 476,000 people in the U.S. may be diagnosed and treated for Lyme disease each year, and most cases are reported in late spring and summer. As climate change leads to longer, hotter, and (in some places) wetter summers, rates of insect-borne diseases are rising. West Nile virus only surfaced in the U.S. in 1999 but has since become the country’s most common mosquito-borne illness, affecting thousands of people each year. Cases of Lyme disease, anaplasmosis, and Powassan encephalitis have more than doubled throughout the U.S. over the past two decades. 2. Rampant extreme weather Deadly heatwaves, severe thunderstorms, floods, tornadoes, hurricanes, wildfires—all these weather extremes are more common in the summer. In fact, the U.S. tends to experience most billion-dollar disasters from April through August. The reasons are complex, but they largely stem from a warmer atmosphere that holds more energy and moisture, intensifying storm systems while also amplifying heat stress at the surface. Summer heatwaves can be particularly dangerous, and they’re becoming more frequent and severe as global temperatures rise. The combination of extreme heat and humidity is one of the leading weather-related killers in the country, as it can exacerbate underlying illnesses and cause heatstroke. At the same time, warmer temperatures increase evaporation from the landscape, leading to drought and heightened wildfire risk. Smoke from wildfires also reduces air quality, wreaking havoc on public health. At the same time, tropical cyclone activity ramps up during the summer—a result of warmer ocean waters, favorable wind shear patterns, and more atmospheric humidity and instability. These conditions also support severe thunderstorm development and contribute to tornado formation, particularly in the central United States. 3. Brutal utility bills When that scorching summer heat sets in, utility costs skyrocket. That’s because households in most regions of the U.S. consume more electricity from July through August, when temperatures and cooling demand are at their peak. Nearly 90% of U.S. households cool their homes with air conditioning. Thanks to climate change, it’s getting harder for air conditioning to beat the heat, and you’re paying the price. As global temperatures rise, people are running air conditioners more often and for longer periods of time. By 2050, the International Energy Agency expects to see a threefold increase in global air-conditioner-related energy demand, equivalent to adding 10 new units per second over the next three decades. 4. Killer UV radiation Who doesn’t love slathering on greasy SPF every time they leave the house? Me, that’s who. I know we’re supposed to wear sunscreen all year round, but there’s no denying that the risk of UV exposure increases drastically in the summer—and some studies suggest it’s only getting worse. Over the past five decades, incidence of malignant skin melanoma—the most aggressive skin cancer—has surged dramatically, with over 325,000 new cases reported worldwide in 2020. This increase has been linked to changes in UV radiation exposure driven by shifting atmospheric conditions, including cloud cover variability, aerosol concentrations, and surface reflectivity. 5. Increased violence A growing body of evidence suggests that rates of violence and mass shootings increase during the summer, especially around the Fourth of July. According to PBS News, the Gun Violence Archive—a database that tracks mass shootings involving four or more people in the U.S.—shows that June, July, and August have had the highest total number of mass shootings over the past decade, while the lowest totals were from December through March. On a global scale, rising temperatures have been linked to increases in homicides, assaults, sexual assaults, firearm violence, intimate partner violence, and violent suicides. This suggests that as summer heatwaves become more frequent and intense, incidents may occur more often. There are several factors that could explain why the warmest months of the year have historically been the most violent. For one, people spend more time drinking and attending social events, which creates more opportunities for conflict, University of Miami criminologist Alex Piquero told PBS. Studies have also shown that heat can push people to a boiling point, resulting in heightened levels of stress and irritability. #Reasons #Summer #Worst #Season #Yearextreme weather,Insects,public health,summer

surge in the summer as higher temperatures and humidity accelerate the reproduction, metabolisms, and biting rates of ticks and mosquitoes. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that 476,000 people in the U.S. may be diagnosed and treated for Lyme disease each year, and most cases are reported in late spring and summer.

As climate change leads to longer, hotter, and (in some places) wetter summers, rates of insect-borne diseases are rising. West Nile virus only surfaced in the U.S. in 1999 but has since become the country’s most common mosquito-borne illness, affecting thousands of people each year. Cases of Lyme disease, anaplasmosis, and Powassan encephalitis have more than doubled throughout the U.S. over the past two decades.

2. Rampant extreme weather

Deadly heatwaves, severe thunderstorms, floods, tornadoes, hurricanes, wildfires—all these weather extremes are more common in the summer. In fact, the U.S. tends to experience most billion-dollar disasters from April through August. The reasons are complex, but they largely stem from a warmer atmosphere that holds more energy and moisture, intensifying storm systems while also amplifying heat stress at the surface.

Summer heatwaves can be particularly dangerous, and they’re becoming more frequent and severe as global temperatures rise. The combination of extreme heat and humidity is one of the leading weather-related killers in the country, as it can exacerbate underlying illnesses and cause heatstroke. At the same time, warmer temperatures increase evaporation from the landscape, leading to drought and heightened wildfire risk. Smoke from wildfires also reduces air quality, wreaking havoc on public health.

At the same time, tropical cyclone activity ramps up during the summer—a result of warmer ocean waters, favorable wind shear patterns, and more atmospheric humidity and instability. These conditions also support severe thunderstorm development and contribute to tornado formation, particularly in the central United States.

3. Brutal utility bills

When that scorching summer heat sets in, utility costs skyrocket. That’s because households in most regions of the U.S. consume more electricity from July through August, when temperatures and cooling demand are at their peak. Nearly 90% of U.S. households cool their homes with air conditioning.

Thanks to climate change, it’s getting harder for air conditioning to beat the heat, and you’re paying the price. As global temperatures rise, people are running air conditioners more often and for longer periods of time. By 2050, the International Energy Agency expects to see a threefold increase in global air-conditioner-related energy demand, equivalent to adding 10 new units per second over the next three decades.

4. Killer UV radiation

Who doesn’t love slathering on greasy SPF every time they leave the house? Me, that’s who. I know we’re supposed to wear sunscreen all year round, but there’s no denying that the risk of UV exposure increases drastically in the summer—and some studies suggest it’s only getting worse.

Over the past five decades, incidence of malignant skin melanoma—the most aggressive skin cancer—has surged dramatically, with over 325,000 new cases reported worldwide in 2020. This increase has been linked to changes in UV radiation exposure driven by shifting atmospheric conditions, including cloud cover variability, aerosol concentrations, and surface reflectivity.

5. Increased violence

A growing body of evidence suggests that rates of violence and mass shootings increase during the summer, especially around the Fourth of July. According to PBS News, the Gun Violence Archive—a database that tracks mass shootings involving four or more people in the U.S.—shows that June, July, and August have had the highest total number of mass shootings over the past decade, while the lowest totals were from December through March.

On a global scale, rising temperatures have been linked to increases in homicides, assaults, sexual assaults, firearm violence, intimate partner violence, and violent suicides. This suggests that as summer heatwaves become more frequent and intense, incidents may occur more often.

There are several factors that could explain why the warmest months of the year have historically been the most violent. For one, people spend more time drinking and attending social events, which creates more opportunities for conflict, University of Miami criminologist Alex Piquero told PBS. Studies have also shown that heat can push people to a boiling point, resulting in heightened levels of stress and irritability.

#Reasons #Summer #Worst #Season #Yearextreme weather,Insects,public health,summer">5 Reasons Why Summer Is the Worst Season of the Year5 Reasons Why Summer Is the Worst Season of the Year I have a confession to make… I don’t like summer. Sure, I can get down with the beach, ice cream, and other delights that are certainly more enjoyable when it’s warm and sunny out. But I remain steadfast in my opinion that it’s actually the worst season of the year—and it’s only getting more unbearable. Before you come for me, let me just say that there’s real science to back me up. Here are 5 research-proven reasons why summer low-key sucks. 1. Bugs, obviously If there’s one thing we can all probably agree on, it’s that mosquitoes and ticks are horrible. When the weather warms and these blood-sucking parasites emerge in droves, it’s more than just a nuisance—it’s a serious public health issue. Rates of insect-borne diseases such as West Nile virus, Lyme disease, and dengue fever surge in the summer as higher temperatures and humidity accelerate the reproduction, metabolisms, and biting rates of ticks and mosquitoes. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that 476,000 people in the U.S. may be diagnosed and treated for Lyme disease each year, and most cases are reported in late spring and summer. As climate change leads to longer, hotter, and (in some places) wetter summers, rates of insect-borne diseases are rising. West Nile virus only surfaced in the U.S. in 1999 but has since become the country’s most common mosquito-borne illness, affecting thousands of people each year. Cases of Lyme disease, anaplasmosis, and Powassan encephalitis have more than doubled throughout the U.S. over the past two decades. 2. Rampant extreme weather Deadly heatwaves, severe thunderstorms, floods, tornadoes, hurricanes, wildfires—all these weather extremes are more common in the summer. In fact, the U.S. tends to experience most billion-dollar disasters from April through August. The reasons are complex, but they largely stem from a warmer atmosphere that holds more energy and moisture, intensifying storm systems while also amplifying heat stress at the surface. Summer heatwaves can be particularly dangerous, and they’re becoming more frequent and severe as global temperatures rise. The combination of extreme heat and humidity is one of the leading weather-related killers in the country, as it can exacerbate underlying illnesses and cause heatstroke. At the same time, warmer temperatures increase evaporation from the landscape, leading to drought and heightened wildfire risk. Smoke from wildfires also reduces air quality, wreaking havoc on public health. At the same time, tropical cyclone activity ramps up during the summer—a result of warmer ocean waters, favorable wind shear patterns, and more atmospheric humidity and instability. These conditions also support severe thunderstorm development and contribute to tornado formation, particularly in the central United States. 3. Brutal utility bills When that scorching summer heat sets in, utility costs skyrocket. That’s because households in most regions of the U.S. consume more electricity from July through August, when temperatures and cooling demand are at their peak. Nearly 90% of U.S. households cool their homes with air conditioning. Thanks to climate change, it’s getting harder for air conditioning to beat the heat, and you’re paying the price. As global temperatures rise, people are running air conditioners more often and for longer periods of time. By 2050, the International Energy Agency expects to see a threefold increase in global air-conditioner-related energy demand, equivalent to adding 10 new units per second over the next three decades. 4. Killer UV radiation Who doesn’t love slathering on greasy SPF every time they leave the house? Me, that’s who. I know we’re supposed to wear sunscreen all year round, but there’s no denying that the risk of UV exposure increases drastically in the summer—and some studies suggest it’s only getting worse. Over the past five decades, incidence of malignant skin melanoma—the most aggressive skin cancer—has surged dramatically, with over 325,000 new cases reported worldwide in 2020. This increase has been linked to changes in UV radiation exposure driven by shifting atmospheric conditions, including cloud cover variability, aerosol concentrations, and surface reflectivity. 5. Increased violence A growing body of evidence suggests that rates of violence and mass shootings increase during the summer, especially around the Fourth of July. According to PBS News, the Gun Violence Archive—a database that tracks mass shootings involving four or more people in the U.S.—shows that June, July, and August have had the highest total number of mass shootings over the past decade, while the lowest totals were from December through March. On a global scale, rising temperatures have been linked to increases in homicides, assaults, sexual assaults, firearm violence, intimate partner violence, and violent suicides. This suggests that as summer heatwaves become more frequent and intense, incidents may occur more often. There are several factors that could explain why the warmest months of the year have historically been the most violent. For one, people spend more time drinking and attending social events, which creates more opportunities for conflict, University of Miami criminologist Alex Piquero told PBS. Studies have also shown that heat can push people to a boiling point, resulting in heightened levels of stress and irritability. #Reasons #Summer #Worst #Season #Yearextreme weather,Insects,public health,summer

I have a confession to make… I don’t like summer.

Sure, I can get down with the beach, ice cream, and other delights that are certainly more enjoyable when it’s warm and sunny out. But I remain steadfast in my opinion that it’s actually the worst season of the year—and it’s only getting more unbearable.

Before you come for me, let me just say that there’s real science to back me up. Here are 5 research-proven reasons why summer low-key sucks.

1. Bugs, obviously

If there’s one thing we can all probably agree on, it’s that mosquitoes and ticks are horrible. When the weather warms and these blood-sucking parasites emerge in droves, it’s more than just a nuisance—it’s a serious public health issue.

Rates of insect-borne diseases such as West Nile virus, Lyme disease, and dengue fever surge in the summer as higher temperatures and humidity accelerate the reproduction, metabolisms, and biting rates of ticks and mosquitoes. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that 476,000 people in the U.S. may be diagnosed and treated for Lyme disease each year, and most cases are reported in late spring and summer.

As climate change leads to longer, hotter, and (in some places) wetter summers, rates of insect-borne diseases are rising. West Nile virus only surfaced in the U.S. in 1999 but has since become the country’s most common mosquito-borne illness, affecting thousands of people each year. Cases of Lyme disease, anaplasmosis, and Powassan encephalitis have more than doubled throughout the U.S. over the past two decades.

2. Rampant extreme weather

Deadly heatwaves, severe thunderstorms, floods, tornadoes, hurricanes, wildfires—all these weather extremes are more common in the summer. In fact, the U.S. tends to experience most billion-dollar disasters from April through August. The reasons are complex, but they largely stem from a warmer atmosphere that holds more energy and moisture, intensifying storm systems while also amplifying heat stress at the surface.

Summer heatwaves can be particularly dangerous, and they’re becoming more frequent and severe as global temperatures rise. The combination of extreme heat and humidity is one of the leading weather-related killers in the country, as it can exacerbate underlying illnesses and cause heatstroke. At the same time, warmer temperatures increase evaporation from the landscape, leading to drought and heightened wildfire risk. Smoke from wildfires also reduces air quality, wreaking havoc on public health.

At the same time, tropical cyclone activity ramps up during the summer—a result of warmer ocean waters, favorable wind shear patterns, and more atmospheric humidity and instability. These conditions also support severe thunderstorm development and contribute to tornado formation, particularly in the central United States.

3. Brutal utility bills

When that scorching summer heat sets in, utility costs skyrocket. That’s because households in most regions of the U.S. consume more electricity from July through August, when temperatures and cooling demand are at their peak. Nearly 90% of U.S. households cool their homes with air conditioning.

Thanks to climate change, it’s getting harder for air conditioning to beat the heat, and you’re paying the price. As global temperatures rise, people are running air conditioners more often and for longer periods of time. By 2050, the International Energy Agency expects to see a threefold increase in global air-conditioner-related energy demand, equivalent to adding 10 new units per second over the next three decades.

4. Killer UV radiation

Who doesn’t love slathering on greasy SPF every time they leave the house? Me, that’s who. I know we’re supposed to wear sunscreen all year round, but there’s no denying that the risk of UV exposure increases drastically in the summer—and some studies suggest it’s only getting worse.

Over the past five decades, incidence of malignant skin melanoma—the most aggressive skin cancer—has surged dramatically, with over 325,000 new cases reported worldwide in 2020. This increase has been linked to changes in UV radiation exposure driven by shifting atmospheric conditions, including cloud cover variability, aerosol concentrations, and surface reflectivity.

5. Increased violence

A growing body of evidence suggests that rates of violence and mass shootings increase during the summer, especially around the Fourth of July. According to PBS News, the Gun Violence Archive—a database that tracks mass shootings involving four or more people in the U.S.—shows that June, July, and August have had the highest total number of mass shootings over the past decade, while the lowest totals were from December through March.

On a global scale, rising temperatures have been linked to increases in homicides, assaults, sexual assaults, firearm violence, intimate partner violence, and violent suicides. This suggests that as summer heatwaves become more frequent and intense, incidents may occur more often.

There are several factors that could explain why the warmest months of the year have historically been the most violent. For one, people spend more time drinking and attending social events, which creates more opportunities for conflict, University of Miami criminologist Alex Piquero told PBS. Studies have also shown that heat can push people to a boiling point, resulting in heightened levels of stress and irritability.

#Reasons #Summer #Worst #Season #Yearextreme weather,Insects,public health,summer

Instructions designed to guide the behavior of the company’s latest model as it writes code have been revealed to include a line, repeated several times, that specifically forbids it from randomly mentioning an assortment of mythical and real creatures.

“Never talk about goblins, gremlins, raccoons, trolls, ogres, pigeons, or other animals or creatures unless it is absolutely and unambiguously relevant to the user’s query,” read instructions in Codex CLI, a command-line tool for using AI to generate code.

It is unclear why OpenAI felt compelled to spell this out for Codex—or indeed why its models might want to discuss goblins or pigeons in the first place. The company did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

OpenAI’s newest model, GPT-5.5, was released with enhanced coding skills earlier this month. The company is in a fierce race with rivals, especially Anthropic, to deliver cutting-edge AI, and coding has emerged as a killer capability.

In response to a post on X that highlighted the lines, however, some users claimed that OpenAI’s models occasionally become obsessed with goblins and other creatures when used to power OpenClaw, a tool that lets AI take control of a computer and apps running on it in order to do useful things for users.

“I was wondering why my claw suddenly became a goblin with codex 5.5,” one user wrote on X.

“Been using it a lot lately and it actually can’t stop speaking of bugs as ‘gremlins’ and ‘goblins’ it’s hilarious,” posted another.

The discovery quickly became its own meme, inspiring AI-generated scenes of goblins in data centers, and plug-ins for Codex that put it in a playful “goblin mode.”

AI models like GPT-5.5 are trained to predict the word—or code—that should follow a given prompt. These models have become so good at doing this that they appear to exhibit genuine intelligence. But their probabilistic nature means that they can sometimes behave in surprising ways. A model might become more prone to misbehavior when used with an “agentic harness” like OpenClaw that puts lots of additional instructions into prompts, such as facts stored in long-term memory.

OpenAI acquired OpenClaw in February not long after the tool became a viral hit among AI enthusiasts. OpenClaw can use any AI model to automate useful tasks like answering emails or buying things on the web. Users can select any of various personae for their helper, which shapes its behavior and responses.

OpenAI staffers appeared to acknowledge the prohibition. In response to a post highlighting OpenClaw’s goblin tendencies, Nik Pash, who works on Codex, wrote, “This is indeed one of the reasons.”

Even Sam Altman, OpenAI’s CEO, joined in with the memes, posting a screenshot of a prompt for ChatGPT. It read: “Start training GPT-6, you can have the whole cluster. Extra goblins.”

#OpenAI #Codex #Shut #Goblinsopenai,artificial intelligence,coding,agentic ai,trolls">OpenAI Really Wants Codex to Shut Up About GoblinsOpenAI has a goblin problem.Instructions designed to guide the behavior of the company’s latest model as it writes code have been revealed to include a line, repeated several times, that specifically forbids it from randomly mentioning an assortment of mythical and real creatures.“Never talk about goblins, gremlins, raccoons, trolls, ogres, pigeons, or other animals or creatures unless it is absolutely and unambiguously relevant to the user’s query,” read instructions in Codex CLI, a command-line tool for using AI to generate code.It is unclear why OpenAI felt compelled to spell this out for Codex—or indeed why its models might want to discuss goblins or pigeons in the first place. The company did not immediately respond to a request for comment.OpenAI’s newest model, GPT-5.5, was released with enhanced coding skills earlier this month. The company is in a fierce race with rivals, especially Anthropic, to deliver cutting-edge AI, and coding has emerged as a killer capability.In response to a post on X that highlighted the lines, however, some users claimed that OpenAI’s models occasionally become obsessed with goblins and other creatures when used to power OpenClaw, a tool that lets AI take control of a computer and apps running on it in order to do useful things for users.“I was wondering why my claw suddenly became a goblin with codex 5.5,” one user wrote on X.“Been using it a lot lately and it actually can’t stop speaking of bugs as ‘gremlins’ and ‘goblins’ it’s hilarious,” posted another.The discovery quickly became its own meme, inspiring AI-generated scenes of goblins in data centers, and plug-ins for Codex that put it in a playful “goblin mode.”AI models like GPT-5.5 are trained to predict the word—or code—that should follow a given prompt. These models have become so good at doing this that they appear to exhibit genuine intelligence. But their probabilistic nature means that they can sometimes behave in surprising ways. A model might become more prone to misbehavior when used with an “agentic harness” like OpenClaw that puts lots of additional instructions into prompts, such as facts stored in long-term memory.OpenAI acquired OpenClaw in February not long after the tool became a viral hit among AI enthusiasts. OpenClaw can use any AI model to automate useful tasks like answering emails or buying things on the web. Users can select any of various personae for their helper, which shapes its behavior and responses.OpenAI staffers appeared to acknowledge the prohibition. In response to a post highlighting OpenClaw’s goblin tendencies, Nik Pash, who works on Codex, wrote, “This is indeed one of the reasons.”Even Sam Altman, OpenAI’s CEO, joined in with the memes, posting a screenshot of a prompt for ChatGPT. It read: “Start training GPT-6, you can have the whole cluster. Extra goblins.”#OpenAI #Codex #Shut #Goblinsopenai,artificial intelligence,coding,agentic ai,trolls

revealed to include a line, repeated several times, that specifically forbids it from randomly mentioning an assortment of mythical and real creatures.

“Never talk about goblins, gremlins, raccoons, trolls, ogres, pigeons, or other animals or creatures unless it is absolutely and unambiguously relevant to the user’s query,” read instructions in Codex CLI, a command-line tool for using AI to generate code.

It is unclear why OpenAI felt compelled to spell this out for Codex—or indeed why its models might want to discuss goblins or pigeons in the first place. The company did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

OpenAI’s newest model, GPT-5.5, was released with enhanced coding skills earlier this month. The company is in a fierce race with rivals, especially Anthropic, to deliver cutting-edge AI, and coding has emerged as a killer capability.

In response to a post on X that highlighted the lines, however, some users claimed that OpenAI’s models occasionally become obsessed with goblins and other creatures when used to power OpenClaw, a tool that lets AI take control of a computer and apps running on it in order to do useful things for users.

“I was wondering why my claw suddenly became a goblin with codex 5.5,” one user wrote on X.

“Been using it a lot lately and it actually can’t stop speaking of bugs as ‘gremlins’ and ‘goblins’ it’s hilarious,” posted another.

The discovery quickly became its own meme, inspiring AI-generated scenes of goblins in data centers, and plug-ins for Codex that put it in a playful “goblin mode.”

AI models like GPT-5.5 are trained to predict the word—or code—that should follow a given prompt. These models have become so good at doing this that they appear to exhibit genuine intelligence. But their probabilistic nature means that they can sometimes behave in surprising ways. A model might become more prone to misbehavior when used with an “agentic harness” like OpenClaw that puts lots of additional instructions into prompts, such as facts stored in long-term memory.

OpenAI acquired OpenClaw in February not long after the tool became a viral hit among AI enthusiasts. OpenClaw can use any AI model to automate useful tasks like answering emails or buying things on the web. Users can select any of various personae for their helper, which shapes its behavior and responses.

OpenAI staffers appeared to acknowledge the prohibition. In response to a post highlighting OpenClaw’s goblin tendencies, Nik Pash, who works on Codex, wrote, “This is indeed one of the reasons.”

Even Sam Altman, OpenAI’s CEO, joined in with the memes, posting a screenshot of a prompt for ChatGPT. It read: “Start training GPT-6, you can have the whole cluster. Extra goblins.”

#OpenAI #Codex #Shut #Goblinsopenai,artificial intelligence,coding,agentic ai,trolls">OpenAI Really Wants Codex to Shut Up About Goblins

OpenAI has a goblin problem.

Instructions designed to guide the behavior of the company’s latest model as it writes code have been revealed to include a line, repeated several times, that specifically forbids it from randomly mentioning an assortment of mythical and real creatures.

“Never talk about goblins, gremlins, raccoons, trolls, ogres, pigeons, or other animals or creatures unless it is absolutely and unambiguously relevant to the user’s query,” read instructions in Codex CLI, a command-line tool for using AI to generate code.

It is unclear why OpenAI felt compelled to spell this out for Codex—or indeed why its models might want to discuss goblins or pigeons in the first place. The company did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

OpenAI’s newest model, GPT-5.5, was released with enhanced coding skills earlier this month. The company is in a fierce race with rivals, especially Anthropic, to deliver cutting-edge AI, and coding has emerged as a killer capability.

In response to a post on X that highlighted the lines, however, some users claimed that OpenAI’s models occasionally become obsessed with goblins and other creatures when used to power OpenClaw, a tool that lets AI take control of a computer and apps running on it in order to do useful things for users.

“I was wondering why my claw suddenly became a goblin with codex 5.5,” one user wrote on X.

“Been using it a lot lately and it actually can’t stop speaking of bugs as ‘gremlins’ and ‘goblins’ it’s hilarious,” posted another.

The discovery quickly became its own meme, inspiring AI-generated scenes of goblins in data centers, and plug-ins for Codex that put it in a playful “goblin mode.”

AI models like GPT-5.5 are trained to predict the word—or code—that should follow a given prompt. These models have become so good at doing this that they appear to exhibit genuine intelligence. But their probabilistic nature means that they can sometimes behave in surprising ways. A model might become more prone to misbehavior when used with an “agentic harness” like OpenClaw that puts lots of additional instructions into prompts, such as facts stored in long-term memory.

OpenAI acquired OpenClaw in February not long after the tool became a viral hit among AI enthusiasts. OpenClaw can use any AI model to automate useful tasks like answering emails or buying things on the web. Users can select any of various personae for their helper, which shapes its behavior and responses.

OpenAI staffers appeared to acknowledge the prohibition. In response to a post highlighting OpenClaw’s goblin tendencies, Nik Pash, who works on Codex, wrote, “This is indeed one of the reasons.”

Even Sam Altman, OpenAI’s CEO, joined in with the memes, posting a screenshot of a prompt for ChatGPT. It read: “Start training GPT-6, you can have the whole cluster. Extra goblins.”

#OpenAI #Codex #Shut #Goblinsopenai,artificial intelligence,coding,agentic ai,trolls

Today’s Wordle answer should be easy to solve if you’re not a fan of big cities.

If you just want to be told today’s word, you can jump to the bottom of this article for today’s Wordle solution revealed. But if you’d rather solve it yourself, keep reading for some clues, tips, and strategies to assist you.

SEE ALSO: Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more: Play games on Mashable
SEE ALSO: NYT Connections hints today: Clues, answers for April 29, 2026

Where did Wordle come from?

Originally created by engineer Josh Wardle as a gift for his partner, Wordle rapidly spread to become an international phenomenon, with thousands of people around the globe playing every day. Alternate Wordle versions created by fans also sprang up, including battle royale Squabble, music identification game Heardle, and variations like Dordle and Quordle that make you guess multiple words at once. 

Wordle eventually became so popular that it was purchased by the New York Times, and TikTok creators even livestream themselves playing.

What’s the best Wordle starting word?

The best Wordle starting word is the one that speaks to you. But if you prefer to be strategic in your approach, we have a few ideas to help you pick a word that might help you find the solution faster. One tip is to select a word that includes at least two different vowels, plus some common consonants like S, T, R, or N.

What happened to the Wordle archive?

The entire archive of past Wordle puzzles was originally available for anyone to enjoy whenever they felt like it, but it was later taken down, with the website’s creator stating it was done at the request of the New York Times. However, the New York Times then rolled out its own Wordle Archive, available only to NYT Games subscribers.

Is Wordle getting harder?

It might feel like Wordle is getting harder, but it actually isn’t any more difficult than when it first began. You can turn on Wordle‘s Hard Mode if you’re after more of a challenge, though.

SEE ALSO: NYT Pips hints, answers for April 29, 2026

Here’s a subtle hint for today’s Wordle answer:

Countryside.

Does today’s Wordle answer have a double letter?

The letter R appears twice.

Mashable 101 Fan Fave: Nominate your favorite creators today

Today’s Wordle is a 5-letter word that starts with…

Today’s Wordle starts with the letter R.

SEE ALSO: Wordle-obsessed? These are the best word games to play IRL.

The Wordle answer today is…

Get your last guesses in now, because it’s your final chance to solve today’s Wordle before we reveal the solution.

Drumroll please!

The solution to today’s Wordle is…

RURAL

Don’t feel down if you didn’t manage to guess it this time. There will be a new Wordle for you to stretch your brain with tomorrow, and we’ll be back again to guide you with more helpful hints. Are you also playing NYT Strands? See hints and answers for today’s Strands.

Reporting by Chance Townsend, Caitlin Welsh, Sam Haysom, Amanda Yeo, Shannon Connellan, Cecily Mauran, Mike Pearl, and Adam Rosenberg contributed to this article.

If you’re looking for more puzzles, Mashable’s got games now! Check out our games hub for Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more.

Not the day you’re after? Here’s the solution to yesterday’s Wordle.

#Wordle #today #answer #hints #April">Wordle today: The answer and hints for April 29, 2026 Today’s Wordle answer should be easy to solve if you’re not a fan of big cities.If you just want to be told today’s word, you can jump to the bottom of this article for today’s Wordle solution revealed. But if you’d rather solve it yourself, keep reading for some clues, tips, and strategies to assist you. SEE ALSO: Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more: Play games on Mashable SEE ALSO: NYT Connections hints today: Clues, answers for April 29, 2026 Where did Wordle come from?Originally created by engineer Josh Wardle as a gift for his partner, Wordle rapidly spread to become an international phenomenon, with thousands of people around the globe playing every day. Alternate Wordle versions created by fans also sprang up, including battle royale Squabble, music identification game Heardle, and variations like Dordle and Quordle that make you guess multiple words at once. Wordle eventually became so popular that it was purchased by the New York Times, and TikTok creators even livestream themselves playing.What’s the best Wordle starting word?The best Wordle starting word is the one that speaks to you. But if you prefer to be strategic in your approach, we have a few ideas to help you pick a word that might help you find the solution faster. One tip is to select a word that includes at least two different vowels, plus some common consonants like S, T, R, or N.What happened to the Wordle archive?The entire archive of past Wordle puzzles was originally available for anyone to enjoy whenever they felt like it, but it was later taken down, with the website’s creator stating it was done at the request of the New York Times. However, the New York Times then rolled out its own Wordle Archive, available only to NYT Games subscribers. Is Wordle getting harder?It might feel like Wordle is getting harder, but it actually isn’t any more difficult than when it first began. You can turn on Wordle‘s Hard Mode if you’re after more of a challenge, though. SEE ALSO: NYT Pips hints, answers for April 29, 2026 Here’s a subtle hint for today’s Wordle answer:Countryside. Mashable Top Stories Does today’s Wordle answer have a double letter?The letter R appears twice.Mashable 101 Fan Fave: Nominate your favorite creators todayToday’s Wordle is a 5-letter word that starts with…Today’s Wordle starts with the letter R. SEE ALSO: Wordle-obsessed? These are the best word games to play IRL. The Wordle answer today is…Get your last guesses in now, because it’s your final chance to solve today’s Wordle before we reveal the solution.Drumroll please!The solution to today’s Wordle is…RURALDon’t feel down if you didn’t manage to guess it this time. There will be a new Wordle for you to stretch your brain with tomorrow, and we’ll be back again to guide you with more helpful hints. Are you also playing NYT Strands? See hints and answers for today’s Strands.Reporting by Chance Townsend, Caitlin Welsh, Sam Haysom, Amanda Yeo, Shannon Connellan, Cecily Mauran, Mike Pearl, and Adam Rosenberg contributed to this article.If you’re looking for more puzzles, Mashable’s got games now! Check out our games hub for Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more.Not the day you’re after? Here’s the solution to yesterday’s Wordle. #Wordle #today #answer #hints #April

Wordle answer should be easy to solve if you’re not a fan of big cities.

If you just want to be told today’s word, you can jump to the bottom of this article for today’s Wordle solution revealed. But if you’d rather solve it yourself, keep reading for some clues, tips, and strategies to assist you.

SEE ALSO: Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more: Play games on Mashable
SEE ALSO: NYT Connections hints today: Clues, answers for April 29, 2026

Where did Wordle come from?

Originally created by engineer Josh Wardle as a gift for his partner, Wordle rapidly spread to become an international phenomenon, with thousands of people around the globe playing every day. Alternate Wordle versions created by fans also sprang up, including battle royale Squabble, music identification game Heardle, and variations like Dordle and Quordle that make you guess multiple words at once. 

Wordle eventually became so popular that it was purchased by the New York Times, and TikTok creators even livestream themselves playing.

What’s the best Wordle starting word?

The best Wordle starting word is the one that speaks to you. But if you prefer to be strategic in your approach, we have a few ideas to help you pick a word that might help you find the solution faster. One tip is to select a word that includes at least two different vowels, plus some common consonants like S, T, R, or N.

What happened to the Wordle archive?

The entire archive of past Wordle puzzles was originally available for anyone to enjoy whenever they felt like it, but it was later taken down, with the website’s creator stating it was done at the request of the New York Times. However, the New York Times then rolled out its own Wordle Archive, available only to NYT Games subscribers.

Is Wordle getting harder?

It might feel like Wordle is getting harder, but it actually isn’t any more difficult than when it first began. You can turn on Wordle‘s Hard Mode if you’re after more of a challenge, though.

SEE ALSO: NYT Pips hints, answers for April 29, 2026

Here’s a subtle hint for today’s Wordle answer:

Countryside.

Does today’s Wordle answer have a double letter?

The letter R appears twice.

Mashable 101 Fan Fave: Nominate your favorite creators today

Today’s Wordle is a 5-letter word that starts with…

Today’s Wordle starts with the letter R.

SEE ALSO: Wordle-obsessed? These are the best word games to play IRL.

The Wordle answer today is…

Get your last guesses in now, because it’s your final chance to solve today’s Wordle before we reveal the solution.

Drumroll please!

The solution to today’s Wordle is…

RURAL

Don’t feel down if you didn’t manage to guess it this time. There will be a new Wordle for you to stretch your brain with tomorrow, and we’ll be back again to guide you with more helpful hints. Are you also playing NYT Strands? See hints and answers for today’s Strands.

Reporting by Chance Townsend, Caitlin Welsh, Sam Haysom, Amanda Yeo, Shannon Connellan, Cecily Mauran, Mike Pearl, and Adam Rosenberg contributed to this article.

If you’re looking for more puzzles, Mashable’s got games now! Check out our games hub for Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more.

Not the day you’re after? Here’s the solution to yesterday’s Wordle.

#Wordle #today #answer #hints #April">Wordle today: The answer and hints for April 29, 2026

Today’s Wordle answer should be easy to solve if you’re not a fan of big cities.

If you just want to be told today’s word, you can jump to the bottom of this article for today’s Wordle solution revealed. But if you’d rather solve it yourself, keep reading for some clues, tips, and strategies to assist you.

SEE ALSO: Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more: Play games on Mashable
SEE ALSO: NYT Connections hints today: Clues, answers for April 29, 2026

Where did Wordle come from?

Originally created by engineer Josh Wardle as a gift for his partner, Wordle rapidly spread to become an international phenomenon, with thousands of people around the globe playing every day. Alternate Wordle versions created by fans also sprang up, including battle royale Squabble, music identification game Heardle, and variations like Dordle and Quordle that make you guess multiple words at once. 

Wordle eventually became so popular that it was purchased by the New York Times, and TikTok creators even livestream themselves playing.

What’s the best Wordle starting word?

The best Wordle starting word is the one that speaks to you. But if you prefer to be strategic in your approach, we have a few ideas to help you pick a word that might help you find the solution faster. One tip is to select a word that includes at least two different vowels, plus some common consonants like S, T, R, or N.

What happened to the Wordle archive?

The entire archive of past Wordle puzzles was originally available for anyone to enjoy whenever they felt like it, but it was later taken down, with the website’s creator stating it was done at the request of the New York Times. However, the New York Times then rolled out its own Wordle Archive, available only to NYT Games subscribers.

Is Wordle getting harder?

It might feel like Wordle is getting harder, but it actually isn’t any more difficult than when it first began. You can turn on Wordle‘s Hard Mode if you’re after more of a challenge, though.

SEE ALSO: NYT Pips hints, answers for April 29, 2026

Here’s a subtle hint for today’s Wordle answer:

Countryside.

Does today’s Wordle answer have a double letter?

The letter R appears twice.

Mashable 101 Fan Fave: Nominate your favorite creators today

Today’s Wordle is a 5-letter word that starts with…

Today’s Wordle starts with the letter R.

SEE ALSO: Wordle-obsessed? These are the best word games to play IRL.

The Wordle answer today is…

Get your last guesses in now, because it’s your final chance to solve today’s Wordle before we reveal the solution.

Drumroll please!

The solution to today’s Wordle is…

RURAL

Don’t feel down if you didn’t manage to guess it this time. There will be a new Wordle for you to stretch your brain with tomorrow, and we’ll be back again to guide you with more helpful hints. Are you also playing NYT Strands? See hints and answers for today’s Strands.

Reporting by Chance Townsend, Caitlin Welsh, Sam Haysom, Amanda Yeo, Shannon Connellan, Cecily Mauran, Mike Pearl, and Adam Rosenberg contributed to this article.

If you’re looking for more puzzles, Mashable’s got games now! Check out our games hub for Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more.

Not the day you’re after? Here’s the solution to yesterday’s Wordle.

#Wordle #today #answer #hints #April

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