Technology

Apple unveils smart speaker, new Macs

HomePod

Apple has announced a new smart speaker device at its Worldwide Developers Conference in San Jose, as well as a new super-powerful iMac and iterative updates to its desktop, laptop and tablet computers.

iPads and HomePods impress as Macs play catch up

Apple's HomePod attracted the biggest crowd at the WWDC hands-on area.

After a marathon set of announcements this morning, Apple invited press into a hands-on area for a brief play with their new Macs, iPads and the much hyped HomePod, Apple's take on the multi-room speaker.

Why your NBN connection may soon speed up

CVC represents the total amount of connectivity an ISP can offer to all its customers.

New charging models could mean that congestion on the National Broadband Network will be reduced – but only if the biggest internet service providers get on board.

Farpoint is the best VR shooting experience you can get at home

For accurate shooting, raising the rifle to eye height will let you see a reticule on its tiny glass display.

Sony's PlayStation VR has flown mostly under the radar since its release six months ago, with a steady flow of smaller games, optional modes and ports from other systems making up the bulk of its content. So the recently released Farpoint — as a full-sized, full-priced shooter that requires the headset to work — immediately stands out from the crowd.

Facebook blasted by shareholders over fake news

Under fire: Facebook founder and CEO Mark Zuckerberg.

Facebook chief executive Mark Zuckerberg has faced sharp criticism during the company's annual shareholders meeting about how the company operates, deals with violence and handles fake news.

Dubai's Robocop reports for duty

Robocop

A robotic policeman which can help identify wanted criminals and collect evidence has joined Dubai's police force and will patrol busy areas in the city, as part of a government programme aimed at replacing some human crime-fighters with machines.

The magic of mystery video game tournaments

Combo Breaker

When you enter a gaming tournament, you usually know what you're in for. Unless you're entering a mystery game tournament. Do that, as dozens of people did at the Combo Breaker event in the US state of Illinois last weekend, and you're playing the notorious Dong Dong Never Die.