Gadgets
Majority of Consumers Globally Think Connected Devices Are “Creepy”

A global survey conducted by Ipsos MORI on behalf of the Internet Society and Consumers International found that 65% of consumers are concerned with the way connected devices collect data. More than half(55%) do not trust their connected devices to protect their privacy and a similar proportion (53%) do not trust connected devices to handle their information responsibly. The survey was conducted across the US, Canada, Japan, Australia, France, and the United Kingdom.
Connected devices are everywhere and many people are willing to be part of the Internet of Things (IoT) revolution. 69% of those surveyed said they own connected devices, such as smart meters, fitness monitors, connected toys, home assistants, or gaming consoles. However, testing by multiple consumers organizations has found a range of products are rushed to market with little consideration for basic security and privacy protections.
The survey results show that 77% of consumers across markets said information about privacy and security are important considerations in their buying decisions and almost a third of people (28%) who don’t own a connected device don’t buy smart products because of these concerns. Consumers see this broadly as much of a barrier as cost.
“The survey results underscore the need for IoT manufacturers to build their devices with security and privacy in mind,” said Internet Society President and CEO Andrew Sullivan. “Security should not be an afterthought. It’s clear that manufacturers and retailers need to do more so that consumers can trust their IoT devices.”
Those surveyed also believe that accountability for connected device concerns should sit with regulators, manufacturers and retailers. 88% percent of survey respondents said that regulators should ensure IoT privacy and security standards, while 81% of people said manufacturers need to provide that assurance, and 80% said retailers must address privacy and security. 60% of participants across markets think consumers to be mainly responsible for the security and privacy of their connected devices.
Helena Leurent, Director General, Consumers International said: “Consumers have told us they accept that they have some responsibility for the security and privacy of their IoT products but that isn’t the end of the story. They, and we, want to see tangible action from manufacturers, retailers, and governments on this issue. It has to be a collective effort, not the responsibility of one group. We are exploring this conversation with progressive manufacturers. Together we are looking at the opportunity to create person-centered technology, that people not only enjoy using, but feel safe and secure doing so. By doing this business can address the concerns of those not engaging with this tech and open up the benefits of the Internet of Things to everyone.”
According to IDC, IoT spending and usage in the Middle East and Africa only expected to grow:
- The IoT market in MEA is expected to grow 15% to exceed $6.99 billion and $12.62 billion in 2021
- In the UAE, IoT spend stood at $500 million in 2017 and it is expected to reach $900 million by 2021
- Totaling over $2.48 billion, IoT services are the market’s largest technology category
- Smart grids for electricity will account for a little over 82% of total IoT spending in the utility sector, while around 50% of consumer IoT spending will be driven by investments around smart buildings

Gadgets
TEAMGROUP Launches X2 MAX SSD and S5 Flash Drive

TEAMGROUP, a leading global memory and storage provider, has strengthened its product portfolio with two new portable storage solutions: the X2 MAX USB 3.2 Gen 2×1 Portable SSD and the S5 USB 3.2 Gen 1 Flash Drive. Both devices combine compact designs with versatile capacity options to meet diverse user needs.
The X2 MAX Portable SSD delivers blazing-fast transfer speeds of up to 1,000 MB/s thanks to its USB 3.2 Gen 2×1 interface, making it ideal for handling large files, 4K videos, and high-resolution photos. Its dual Type-A and Type-C connectors ensure broad compatibility with PCs, laptops, and gaming consoles like PlayStation and Xbox, eliminating the need for extra adapters. Weighing just 12g and available in capacities up to 2TB, it’s a powerful yet ultra-portable storage solution.
Meanwhile, the S5 Flash Drive leverages COB (Chip On Board) technology for enhanced durability and data protection. With read speeds up to 140MB/s (USB 3.2 Gen 1) and capacities from 32GB to 512GB, it balances performance and portability. Its 2g weight and built-in keyhole design make it both a practical storage tool and a convenient everyday accessory.
TEAMGROUP backs the X2 MAX SSD with a five-year warranty and the S5 Flash Drive with a lifetime warranty, ensuring long-term reliability.
Gadgets
ZOTAC Unveils RTX 5060 Series With NVIDIA Blackwell

ZOTAC Technology has unveiled its latest GeForce RTX 5060 Series graphics cards, powered by NVIDIA’s next-generation Blackwell architecture. The lineup includes the RTX 5060 Ti in 16GB and 8GB variants, along with the standard RTX 5060, all featuring ultra-fast GDDR7 memory, advanced cooling solutions, and compact designs for broad system compatibility.
Designed for both gamers and creators, the new GPUs leverage AI acceleration through DLSS 4, delivering smoother frame rates and enhanced ray tracing. NVIDIA’s Studio tools and NIM microservices further expand creative possibilities, enabling AI-assisted workflows and faster content creation.
ZOTAC’s focus on small-form-factor (SFF) compatibility ensures these cards fit seamlessly into tight PC cases. The AMP model stands out with a factory overclock, dual BladeLink fans, and IceStorm 2.0 cooling for peak performance. Meanwhile, the Twin Edge (OC) offers a balanced blend of power and efficiency in a 2-slot design, and the SOLO variant caters to ultra-compact builds with its single-fan configuration.
Efficiency is a key highlight, with the entire series requiring only a single 8-pin PCIe power connector, reducing the need for PSU upgrades. The IceStorm 2.0 cooling system—featuring extended heat sinks, composite heat pipes, and optimized airflow—ensures stable thermals even under heavy loads. Additional refinements include FREEZE fan stop for silent operation during low-intensity tasks and a metal backplate for added durability.
For enthusiasts who prefer manual tuning, ZOTAC’s updated FireStorm utility provides intuitive control over clock speeds, voltage, and fan curves.
Gadgets
Drop and Bethesda Debut Starfield Keyboard Collection

Drop has announced its latest collaboration with Bethesda Softworks, bringing the immersive universe of Starfield to players’ desktop setups. This exclusive Drop + Starfield collection features a custom keyboard, an artisan keycap, a coiled USB cable, and a desk mat—all meticulously designed to capture the essence of interstellar exploration.
At the heart of this collection is the Drop + Starfield Constellation Keyboard, a mechanical keyboard inspired by the cockpit controls of Starfield’s futuristic Starships. The keycaps, designed with precise detailing, mirror the interfaces and control panels seen in-game, giving users the feel of a pilot experience with every keystroke. Combined with Drop’s renowned mechanical keyboard craftsmanship, this keyboard delivers not only immersive aesthetics but also top-tier performance.
To complete the setup, the Drop + Starfield Constellation Deskmat offers a sleek, high-quality surface. The coiled quick-disconnect USB cable, featuring durable sleeving and a premium metal connector, ensures a seamless connection while adding a touch of industrial sci-fi aesthetics to any setup. The Drop + Starfield Constellation Artisan Keycap, crafted with intricate detail, serves as a collectible tribute to the game’s rich universe.
“At Drop, we are passionate about bringing beloved franchises to life through premium mechanical keyboard products,” said Lukas Mondoux, Director of Drop Studio. “With the Drop + Starfield collection, we wanted to create an experience that allows fans to feel like they’re sitting in the cockpit of their own spacecraft, charting their journey across the galaxy. The combination of game-accurate design and our high-performance hardware makes this collection a must-have for Starfield and mechanical keyboard enthusiasts alike.”
Drop + Starfield Collection Features:
- Drop + Starfield Constellation Keyboard – Custom keycaps inspired by Starfield’s cockpit controls for an immersive spacefaring experience.
- Drop + Starfield Constellation Deskmat – High-quality desk mat featuring official Starfield artwork.
- Drop + Starfield Constellation Coiled USB Cable – Premium cable with a durable metal connector for a seamless and stylish connection.
- Drop + Starfield Constellation Artisan Keycap – A meticulously crafted artisan keycap designed for collectors and fans of the game, featuring the Starfield Constellation logo
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