Daily reads: Jul 4, 2026

The Verge reviews the Epomaker RT98, a mechanical keyboard with a retro look, CRT-style screen, VIA support, and a modular number pad that can attach to either side. The review praises its flexibility and typing feel while noting that, like many enthusiast keyboards, it comes with some quirks and tradeoffs.

Wikipedia removed its article on the Odin programming language after an Articles for Deletion discussion found insufficient independent, in-depth sources. Editors backing deletion argued the page relied on developer materials, blogs, and trivial academic mentions rather than reliable coverage showing notability.

Researchers from the University of Exeter and Cardiff University found that giant Dipterocarp trees in Malaysian Borneo compensate for height-related water transport challenges. The study, published in Science, shows their hydraulic systems remain effective even in trees over 70 meters tall, with no height-related growth loss during severe drought.

The article offers a concise glossary of important AI-related words and phrases that have entered mainstream discussion. It aims to help readers navigate the expanding vocabulary around AI as the field grows more visible and complex.

SearXNG is a free metasearch engine that aggregates results while avoiding user tracking and profiling. The project is hosted publicly, has over 33,000 stars, and provides installation, configuration, contribution, and security documentation under the AGPL-3.0 license.

Amazon has refreshed the 32GB version of its 2023 Fire HD 10 tablet, increasing RAM from 3GB to 4GB while raising the price from $139.99 to $154.99. The 64GB model remains unchanged with 3GB of RAM, and other specs such as the 10.1-inch display, octa-core processor, battery life, and microSD support stay the same.

The article says browser competition is shifting from search dominance toward AI tools that can summarize content, browse pages, and complete tasks for users. It highlights alternatives to Chrome and Safari, including AI-powered browsers like Perplexity’s Comet and The Browser Company’s Dia, along with open-source, privacy-focused, and mindful browsers.

US cities hosting the World Cup, including Kansas City and New York, have been increasing surveillance capabilities ahead of the tournament. Washington, DC, is also heightening security for major summer events tied to America250 and Fourth of July celebrations.

Dune is a small keypad with three buttons that changes its controls based on the app currently in focus. In meeting tools, it can handle actions like toggling the microphone, toggling video, or bringing the meeting window forward.

Chevy’s Silverado EV offers more than 400 miles of range, a huge frunk and bed, roomy cabin, home backup power, towing capability, and hands-free highway driving. Despite seeming like a strong fit for American truck buyers, GM sold only about 14,000 units in the U.S. and Canada last year, far behind the gas Silverado.