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Ultimate MicroSD Cards for Your Camera, Switch, and More

Ultimate MicroSD Cards for Your Camera, Switch, and More

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When selecting a MicroSD card, the array of figures, brands, and terms such as Pro, Extreme, and Express can be daunting. Generally, if you’re not a semi-professional photographer or videographer, it’s advisable to buy from reputable brands like PNY, SanDisk, and Lexar. Look for the “U” symbol with a 3 inside or a “V30” which offers a solid balance of speed and cost. There are exceptions:

For those using a high-end camera, you might consider a V60 MicroSD card if it fits your budget, as certain cameras can take advantage of enhanced video features with faster cards.

If you’re using a Nintendo Switch 2, a more expensive MicroSD Express card is necessary for playing games, although standard cards are adequate for transferring images and videos.

**Capacity**

Your storage requirements may differ, but when comparing 128 GB to 1 TB, be aware of the challenges of swapping cards on the move with increased capacities, as well as the sharply rising prices for 1 TB and 2 TB cards. The cost gap between 256 GB and 512 GB is narrower, so it might be worthwhile to opt for slightly larger sizes. Confirm that your device supports higher capacity cards above 64 GB, recognized as “SDXC” (Extended Capacity), which is currently the most common type.

**Speed**

For further information on MicroSD speeds, a detailed explanation is available, but here’s a brief summary. The minimum write speed of each card is indicated by a letter and number, where the number represents MB/s and the letter signifies the generation. C10, U1, and V10 represent equivalent speeds, merely labeled differently. Cards often display multiple symbols. For comprehensive details, the SD Association’s website provides a chart that compares speeds. Typically, cards that are slower than V30/U3 are rare in most shops, although they may be included with electronics that don’t require higher speeds.

14 Best Travel Toiletry Bags, Tried Over Countless Miles (2026)

14 Best Travel Toiletry Bags, Tried Over Countless Miles (2026)

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**Additional Bags We Considered**

During our quest for the ultimate travel bags, we came across a variety of noteworthy options that didn’t quite secure a spot on our main list. However, personal tastes differ, and some of these could be just what you’re looking for.

**Patricks BB1 Bathroom Bag – $189**: A robust, shock-absorbing bag akin to the Flat Lay style but at a steeper cost. Although it has fewer compartments, it excels with larger items, though other reviewers and I favored bags that offer more secure storage, like the less costly Parallelle Kit.

**Flat Lay Makeup Box Bag – $37**: This small bag unfolds into a flat format for effortless access. While it’s not my first choice for toiletries, it was excellent for beach and pool necessities.

**Monos Metro Toiletry Case – $95**: Recognized for its elegant construction, this bag includes a main compartment along with smaller pockets. While it maximizes space effectively, the absence of a carrying handle was a drawback.

**Calpak Clear Cosmetics Case – $85**: This waterproof case reveals multiple zippered sections when opened, and its fashionable dual-handles give it the appearance of a charming handbag. It works better on flat surfaces due to its design that requires unfolding.

**Vera Bradley Toiletry Bags – $30**: Celebrated for their vibrant patterns and lightweight styles, Vera Bradley bags evoke both nostalgia and contemporary style. The Lay-Flat Travel Organizer stood out particularly for its secure compartments.

**Bagsmart Blast 4.5L Toiletry Bag – $30**: This bag can stand or hang effortlessly, featuring a bright, well-organized interior. Its size kept it from ranking higher, but it remains a reliable option.

**Beis the Dopp Kit – $68**: A preferred choice for its sturdy and compartmentalized design, the water-resistant fabric helps contain spills. Easy cleanup makes it a great fit for short trips.

**Thule Aion Toiletry Bag – $65**: Offering smart design elements like a detachable liquid pouch and an easy-to-clean interior, this bag has ample space but can feel bulky.

**Nex Dopp Kit – $73**: Made from microfiber leather, this spacious choice provides a structured design to safeguard contents, though it has a distinct odor.

**Cotopaxi Nido Accessory Bag – $50**: More of a multipurpose container, it features individual compartments within a robust and lightweight setup. Its design is not ideal for hanging.

**Kusshi Hair Tools Bag – $89**: This organized carrier includes heat-resistant sections, although the initial strong odor might necessitate airing it out.

**Aer Travel Kit 2 Ultra – $79**: Constructed from durable sailcloth, this bag is both lightweight and secure, though maintenance can be a bit demanding due to its complex design.

**Eagle Creek Pack-It Trifold Toiletry Kit – $50**: Although practical with several compartments, it can lead to spills if items are not placed securely.

**State Bags Benson Toiletry Kit – $65**: This versatile bag meets essential needs with detachable pockets but lacks the more sophisticated organizational features of competitors.

**Cuyana Travel Beauty Case – $298**: For those pursuing luxury, it harmoniously combines style with functionality with its leather finish and gold accents, though it is heavier than average.

**Cincha The Toiletry Bag – $55**: An organized layout accommodating various compartments, this roomy bag is perfect for shared travel situations.

**July Hanging Toiletry Bag – $85**: Fashionable with numerous pouches, this bag might take up significant space in a carry-on and could feel limited in pocket capacity for some users.

**Tumi Alpha Bravo Response Kit – $225**: Boasting Tumi’s renowned reliability, this bag’s versatility stands out, although the cost is considerably high compared to similar options.

**Beautifect Go Mini – $177**: While functional with its illuminated mirror, its weight is noticeable, making it less than ideal for all travel types.

**Fjallraven Kanken Toiletry Bag – $60**: Merging a sturdy exterior with practical compartments, it suits those carrying more items but is less ideal for minimalists.

**Tom Beckbe Canvas Dopp Kit – $195**: A large and chic choice made from quality materials, this bag caters to those who appreciate a rugged aesthetic.

**Eagle Creek Pack-It Isolate Quick Trip – $25**: Lightweight and adaptable, it serves as a gym or tech pouch, blending simplicity with practicality.

**Kusshi Neoprene Wristlet Clutch – $39**: A multifunctional clutch that also serves as a toiletry bag; suitable for lightweight essentials but may become unwieldy.

**Sympl Dopp Kit – $75**: Focused on specific item dimensions, this sturdy bag’s design may restrict flexibility but ensures safety for smaller essentials.

**Bagsmart Paz Hanging Toiletry Bag – $35**: Designed for lengthy stays or

Wall Street Struggles with AI Hysteria

Wall Street Struggles with AI Hysteria

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Before the prior week, very few were familiar with the name Alap Shah. The 45-year-old financial analyst and technology entrepreneur had been laboring quietly for two decades. Then, over the weekend, he co-authored a blog with the research company Citrini titled “The 2028 Global Intelligence Crisis.” It was a speculative article discussing the repercussions of artificial intelligence, predicting that by June in that year, AI would elevate unemployment beyond 10 percent and result in considerable market downturns. With a self-assured, prophetic style reminiscent of a Michael Lewis narrative, the authors depicted a negative feedback loop: AI agents displace jobs, consumer spending declines, and firms resort to perpetual layoffs.

Much of the content was familiar territory. Tech figures like Anthropic CEO Dario Amodei have already stated that half of the entry-level white-collar positions will disappear shortly, and Anthropic’s launch of new AI tools earlier this year brought about a sell-off on Wall Street. Nevertheless, the report made a substantial impact, coinciding with a significant drop in the Dow. Alap Shah’s name received unexpected notoriety.

Upon closer inspection, however, the reaction is not as remarkable. Similar to the general public, Wall Street is extremely worried about AI, with minor provocations causing considerable market fluctuations. Financial markets don’t always mirror reality, but these reactions highlight a broader anxiety. The AI future, reminiscent of a William Gibson concept, is unevenly distributed, leading to thrilling yet disconcerting developments.

No one completely grasps AI’s economic influence, but it is destined to be significant. Currently, stock values are elevated, encouraging market hopefulness. However, ominous reports or studies suggesting potential AI-induced disruptions remind investors of the unresolved and urgent issues at play. For example, earlier this month, a small company shifted from selling karaoke machines to AI logistics and released a report on enhancing truck loading efficiency, resulting in major losses in key logistics stocks, none of which had any prior connections to karaoke.

Following its effect on Wall Street, the Citrini report faced considerable backlash. Critics quickly pointed out its flaws. Some contended that AI has not yet had a meaningful effect on the economy. Others referenced historical resilience after technological advancements. A satirical response from Citadel Securities dismissed the report’s conclusions by outlining improbable conditions under which AI could instigate a lasting economic shock.

The most intense criticisms targeted the report’s claim that much of the economy is composed of unproductive middlemen and market makers exploiting public complacency. Shah argued that AI agents will enable consumers to effortlessly find the best deals, rendering apps unnecessary. He pointed out that DoorDash represents this transformation; consumers could circumvent apps, employing AI agents to directly arrange meals from restaurants and delivery services, resulting in a seamless experience. The implication is that companies like DoorDash are essentially comparable to outdated trends.

OpenAI Unveils Major Growth of London Office

OpenAI Unveils Major Growth of London Office

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OpenAI has unveiled intentions to convert its London location into its most extensive research center outside of the United States. Founded in 2023, the UK office seeks to broaden its research team by drawing talent from premier British universities, though exact hiring figures remain unspecified.

Mark Chen, OpenAI’s chief research officer, underscored the globally recognized talent and institutions in the UK as pivotal factors for this expansion, reinforcing AI safety and utility. This initiative positions OpenAI in direct rivalry for top research talent with Google DeepMind, which is steered by British researcher Demis Hassabis and operates from London. DeepMind actively partners with Oxford and Cambridge Universities through professorships, funded research endeavors, and collaborative projects.

Recent career fairs at Oxford University demonstrated an increasing appetite for AI positions, marked by a rise in both job opportunities and student interest. Jonathan Black, director of the university’s careers service, highlighted the beneficial effects of these trends.

The London team will play a role in products such as Codex and GPT-5.2, while also prioritizing model safety, reliability, and performance assessment. UK science and technology secretary Liz Kendall commended the initiative as evidence of the UK’s preeminent position in AI research.

This announcement coincides with the UK’s initiatives to upgrade data center and power infrastructure to accommodate the growing computing needs of AI firms, including OpenAI.

Highest-Ranked Ski Apparel for 2026: Shells, Coats, Woolen Socks

Highest-Ranked Ski Apparel for 2026: Shells, Coats, Woolen Socks

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## Honorable Mentions

During the winter season, the WIRED team consistently evaluates ski clothing. Here are some products we admire.

### Hestra Fall Line 3-Finger Gloves for $190:

I’ve been a fan of Hestra gloves for some time, taken by their sophisticated stitching and considerate design. This year, I tested a pair, and the Fall Line gloves met my expectations. They are available in six sizes to guarantee an ideal fit. The cowhide is supple, with a bit of break-in occurring after just five days. The wrist strap prevents you from losing your glove while checking your phone. They offer warmth without excessive sweating, and the lining can be removed for cleaning. —Martin Cizmar

### Crab Grab Snuggler Mitts for $89:

These mittens resemble tiny sleeping bags for your fingers, filled with Primaloft insulation and cozy sherpa fleece lining for added warmth. A 15K membrane delivers outstanding waterproof protection. Sturdy and suitable for all seasons, these mitts are a fantastic selection for under $100.

### Mons Royale Yotei Merino Classic Long Sleeve for $98:

Even outside the mountains, this shirt is remarkably comfortable. Constructed from 190-gsm, 100% merino wool, it provides warmth with a relaxed fit. On the slopes, it effectively wicks moisture, keeping me at ease. When layered with a shell and the Patagonia R1 Thermal Hoodie, it ensures warmth even under severe conditions.

### Seniq Powder Puff Down Jacket and Bib:

Seniq, a women’s brand debuting in 2024, brings a Gen Z aesthetic with playful color blocking. The Powder Puff Down Jacket features a dry-touch finish, YKK AquaGuard zippers, and a PFC-free DWR coating for water resistance. Additional perks include an asymmetrical front zipper, side pockets, and a spacious removable hood for versatility. The silky shell bibs have a flattering silhouette, multiple pockets, and a 20,000-mm waterproof rating. —Kristin Canning

### Mammut Sender In Hooded Jacket for $259:

This puffy hoodie functions as a superb mid-layer, featuring insulation made from recycled rope remnants and a wind-resistant PFC-free DWR coating. It’s lightweight, warm, and adaptable for snowboarding, hiking, and camping, though it isn’t the most packable option.

### Helly Hansen Evolved Air Half Zip for $112:

This fleece pullover showcases a waffle pattern for heat retention and moisture wicking. Its lightweight construction and high zippered collar with an adjustable hem make it a functional mid-layer for warmth without adding bulk. —Kristin Canning

### Helly Hansen Lifa Base Layer Long-Sleeve Crew for $115 and Pants for $115:

These base layers achieve the perfect thickness balance. They blend merino wool and LIFA fibers for improved moisture-wicking capabilities. They’re soft, lightweight, warm, and odor-resistant, featuring attractive designs and temperature regulation capabilities. —Kristin Canning

—

We offer a comprehensive guide on [how to layer](https://www.wired.com/story/outdoor-layering-basics/), but here are some key items.

**Base layer:** Crucial for warmth and moisture wicking. Merino wool is optimal but pricey; synthetics are advancing and cotton should be avoided at all costs.

**Mid layer:** A fleece or puffer retains warmth while releasing moisture. Primaloft Gold performs well whether wet or dry, while down provides excellent warmth-to-weight ratio.

**Jacket:** A waterproof shell is generally sufficient, providing protection from snow and wind. Look for Gore-Tex (without PFAS) with taped seams and ample pockets.

**Socks:** A mix of merino wool and synthetic fibers offers warmth and durability. Steer clear of cotton and avoid wearing two pairs of socks.

**Gloves:** Waterproof options are preferable; leather gloves can serve as a commendable alternative. Mittens offer more warmth but less dexterity.

For further details, refer to our [Best Ski Gloves and Mittens](https://www.wired.com/gallery/best-ski-gloves-and-mittens/) guide.

**Waterproofing and breathability ratings:** A hydrostatic head rating (HH) gauges waterproof capabilities. Breathability is measured by grams of vapor passing through the fabric per square meter daily.

—

**How We Tested**

I have assessed winter sports gear for more than 15 years, collaborating with experts and enthusiasts from the WIRED team. We conducted field evaluations in various conditions across locations like the French Alps, Vermont, Colorado, Arizona, and Oregon to ensure comprehensive assessments.

Who’s Your Parent? A Chatbot

Who’s Your Parent? A Chatbot

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Alesandra Madison encountered her husband employing AI in their partnership in late 2024. She had longed for her “nightly kneeling ritual,” which led him to seek advice from ChatGPT on how to administer discipline. The AI recommended a dual punishment of composing 100 lines while maintaining the kneeling position. Despite having explored kink with her husband for 15 years, this AI-driven method was unprecedented for them.

Madison, 44, hailing from Los Angeles, now perceives AI as a vital enhancement tool for kink practices, providing new insights into their relationship. AI is increasingly recognized as a dynamic influence in BDSM, offering a distinctive space for trust and dialogue free from judgment.

A user on the r/SubSanctuary subreddit remarked on the benefits of utilizing AI for better self-understanding as a submissive, emphasizing AI’s adaptability and constant accessibility. While some find it appealing, others critique AI dominants as “shallow entertainment” or “hazardous.”

As discussions surrounding AI intensify, platforms such as Joi AI, Character.AI, Replika, and Soulmaite present AI-enabled BDSM chatbots. These services enable users to investigate diverse dynamics, with certain sex workers like Alix Lynx and Jenna Starr permitting their images for these platforms. Developers strive to produce apps for immersive and intelligent role-play dialogues. Oxy shop, a retailer of BDSM gear, now features an AI-powered “BDSM chat” for individuals seeking dominatrix encounters.

Carolina Bandinelli from the University of Warwick observes that AI chatbots create a venue for expressing sexual fantasies, empowering users to design and shape their ideal dynamic, illustrating the fantasy intrinsic to human-AI interactions.

The Final Enigma of Antarctica's 'Blood Falls' Has Ultimately Been Resolved

The Final Enigma of Antarctica’s ‘Blood Falls’ Has Ultimately Been Resolved

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There exists a section of Antarctica that brings to mind a scene from a David Cronenberg movie. Situated within the arid valleys of McMurdo, this expansive frozen wasteland sporadically expels a crimson plume from the glaringly white Taylor Glacier. Referred to as the Blood Falls, since their identification by geologist Thomas Griffith Taylor in 1911, they have generated scientific fascination for over a century.

Recent studies from 2018 onward have shed light on numerous enigmas, including the origin of their red coloration and the reason they remain liquid at nearly –20 degrees Celsius. Newly released research in the journal Antarctic Science resolves the mystery, clarifying the processes that compel the falls to surface from below ground.

The Science of the Blood Falls

Taylor initially attributed the hue to red microalgae. More than a hundred years later, it is now understood that the redness arises from iron particles encapsulated with other elements such as silicon, calcium, aluminum, and sodium in nanospheres. These are likely derived from ancient bacteria imprisoned underground: When the iron comes into contact with air, it oxidizes, leading to the characteristic rust color.

The fluid is a hypersaline brine that formed around two million years ago as the Antarctic Ocean receded. Its elevated salinity prevents it from freezing, enabling it to flow out intermittently.

The Recent Revelation

The ultimate question was what physically triggered the fluid to burst forth. The answer surfaced from examining GPS data, thermal sensors, and high-resolution photographs from 2018. The Blood Falls are a result of pressure fluctuations in the brine beneath the glacier.

As Taylor Glacier shifts, its ice mass compresses the subglacial channels, generating substantial pressure. When the stress reaches a critical point, the ice fractures: Pressurized brine seeps through fissures and erupts. This expulsion functions as a hydraulic brake, temporarily hindering the glacier’s movement. This finding seems to clarify the enigmas surrounding the Blood Falls, although the effects of global warming on the system remain ambiguous.

This narrative originally appeared on WIRED Italia and has been translated from Italian.

Best Laptop Tote Bags for 2026: WIRED-Tested and Evaluated

Best Laptop Tote Bags for 2026: WIRED-Tested and Evaluated

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Top 6 Tote Bags Comparison

Honorable Mentions

Tory Burch Perry Tote for $395: The Perry Tote is an upscale handbag that functions as an elegant work tote. Crafted from Italian pebbled leather, it features a secure laptop compartment with a zipper and three slip pockets.

Nordstrom Le Pliage for $165: The Le Pliage tote is a timeless, adaptable bag designed to hold travel necessities. Its structure draws inspiration from origami, allowing it to be folded for convenient storage.

Cozy Earth Waxed Canvas Tote for $68: This tote blends minimalist aesthetics with robust construction. The straightforward design features both external and internal pockets, making it ideal for various activities such as shopping or beach outings.

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Start Your Surround Sound Journey with $50 Discount on This Klipsch Soundbar

Start Your Surround Sound Journey with $50 Discount on This Klipsch Soundbar

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If you’re tired of the audio from your TV speakers yet don’t want a complete subwoofer arrangement, there’s a solid choice available. The Klipsch Flexus Core 200 is currently discounted by $50 on Amazon, making it a fantastic entry point if you’re seeking a soundbar with options for future enhancements.

Although it has fewer channels compared to some leading choices and lacks side-firing drivers for surround sound, it still produces remarkable audio. With a width of 44 inches and 2.25-inch drivers, it provides clarity and nuanced sound, particularly with its strong bass. Our reviewer, Ryan Waniata, commended its sound quality.

The soundbar comes with built-in controls for essential features like adjusting the volume, but you can also utilize a mobile app for more precise adjustments. In addition to standard functions, it boasts a three-band equalizer and advanced settings for additional speakers. With eARC for TV connectivity, you may find you don’t need the remote or app frequently.

A key aspect of the Klipsch Flexus Core 200 is its ability to expand. The Klipsch Flexus Surr 100 bookshelf speakers and Klipsch Flexus Sub 100 connect wirelessly to the Core 200, providing versatility in speaker arrangement. If you prefer a specific subwoofer, there’s an RCA jack to link it, adding to the variety in this price category.

If you’re poised to enhance your sound system for movie evenings, you can claim a $50 discount on the Flexus Core 200. Alternatively, browse through our best soundbars guide for additional choices.

The US Saw a Notable Increase in Battery Demand Last Year

The US Saw a Notable Increase in Battery Demand Last Year

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In 2025, the United States saw a historic rise in energy storage, as detailed in a freshly released solar industry report on Monday. This boom in battery storage signifies a considerable milestone for clean energy amid the renewable-unfriendly second term of the Trump administration and suggests that utilities may be modifying electric grids to meet increasing demand across the country.

The report, issued by the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA), corresponds with recent findings from Bloomberg New Energy Finance, showcasing a comparable surge in battery development. As per SEIA, the United States added 57 gigawatt hours of new energy storage in 2025, representing nearly a 30 percent rise from the prior year. This capacity is enough to supply power to over five million homes each year.

The report predicts a 21 percent market growth by the conclusion of this year, with an additional 70 gigawatt hours anticipated in 2026. These statistics sharply contrast with less than a decade ago when storage on the grid amounted to only around half a gigawatt.

Batteries have demonstrated considerable political endurance. Tax incentives for wind and solar were cut last summer amid legislative challenges to renewables, yet faced opposition from Republican lawmakers in regions with clean energy initiatives. Nonetheless, battery tax credits largely remained unharmed.

In spite of the federal administration’s position on renewables, batteries and solar experienced considerable advancement in certain conservative states last year. Texas stands out, where solar energy constituted over 15 percent of summer demand, exceeding coal for the first time. SEIA projects that Texas will outpace California this year in terms of gigawatt hours of storage deployed.

Jigar Shah, from the advisory firm Multiplier and a former director of the Department of Energy’s Loan Programs Office, points out that Texas’s independent and deregulated power grid favors solar and batteries over alternative solutions, notwithstanding White House opposition. Recent surveys reveal that MAGA voters back solar power, and prominent individuals like Katie Miller have voiced support for solar energy.

“Texas fundamentally ignores cultural prejudices,” Shah states. “‘Heed the market signals. Construct whatever you wish, whether it’s coal plants or batteries.’ Batteries received the most financial backing.”

While solar and batteries thrive in Texas, the majority of battery installations last year were standalone, not linked to particular solar projects, which is a positive trend for grids coping with heightened demand.

Generally, US energy grids utilize only about 50 percent of their available energy on a daily basis. This intentional underutilization guarantees capacity for peak demand days. Deploying batteries at all levels of the grid aids in harnessing surplus energy during off-peak hours to mitigate waste.