Tech News

DRAM and NAND wafer production cut 20%

Micron Technology is making deeper production cuts for 2023 over concerns that the economy is getting worse, continuing a significant reversal from the high demand that made chip shortages the norm during the first two years of the COVID pandemic.…

Enlarge / Parents work on their computers while their son entertains himself at their home in Boston in April 2020. (credit: Getty | Boston Globe)

Respiratory illnesses are raging this fall, slamming children particularly hard. Cases of influenza-like illnesses are off to a startlingly strong and early start this season. RSV—respiratory syncytial (sin-SISH-uhl) virus—continues to skyrocket. A stew of SARS-CoV-2 variants is still simmering in the background. And the rabble of usual cold-season viruses, such as rhinoviruses and enteroviruses, is also making the rounds.

RSV national trends. (credit: CDC)

With the surge in infections, children's hospitals around the country have reported being at capacity or overwhelmed, as Ars has reported before. But another effect of the crush of viruses is a squeeze on the workforce. As The Washington Post first reported Tuesday, the US broke its record last month for people missing work due to childcare problems—such as having children home sick and childcare facilities or schools shuttered due to staffing shortages and sickness.

Outpatient respiratory illness visits. (credit: CDC)

In October, more than 100,000 employed Americans missed work for childcare-related problems, according to data from the US Bureau of Labor Statistics. That is more missing workers than in any other month in recent records, including the entirety of the COVID-19 pandemic, during which many childcare facilities and schools closed down for extended periods. At the height of pandemic-related shutdowns in 2020, the number of Americans missing work for childcare problems only reached the low 90,000s.

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It's the gift to cybercriminals that keeps on giving

Iranian state-sponsored cyber criminals used an unpatched Log4j flaw to break into a US government network, illegally mine for cryptocurrency, steal credentials and change passwords, and then snoop around undetected for several months, according to CISA.…

Don’t know what to buy for the resident stoner in your group? Let’s be honest—they’re never gonna take the time to restore all their crusty pipes and bongs to their former glory, but that doesn’t mean their gear doesn’t need a refresh every once in a while. Whether they’re a packing for a sneaky sesh while visiting their parents’ place back home or outfitting their apartment with a full-on dab rig, help them ease into the holidaze by signing them up for a subscription from Cannabox, one of our favorite cannabis goods brands that that will drop a big fat goody bag on their doorstep filled with a bunch of cool new smoking accessories every month. Now is the perfect time, since Cannabox is offering 15% off sitewide from November 24 to December 31 with promo code VICE. Plus readers can get 30% off new subscriptions with promo code VICECB, exclusively on Cyber Monday (which falls on November 28 this year).

If you’re new to Cannabox, the Phoenix, AZ-based operation is effectively a cross between a smoke shop and a subscription box service, serving up six to eight smoking accessories in each month’s delivery. With different themes like “Nostalgia”, “Shrooms”, and “Holidaze” (to name a few), you can always expect something new in your box, from super wacky bongs to flavored rolling papers and merch. Even if you’re picking up a few things for the well-stocked pothead in your life, Cannabox makes the process no sweat; you can also buy sick gifts for your 420-friendly favorites à la carte from the Cannabox shop.

Don’t worry if your giftee lives with a family member or roommate that frowns upon smoking the devil’s lettuce: Cannabox has just the right tools for a super-sneaky sesh. Case in point: this travel mug, which is totally not a nondescript coffee cup bong. No longer should any loved one make a MacGyvered sploof out of an old toilet paper roll, some dryer sheets, and rubber bands. Even when a smoke sesh wraps up, any stoner worth their salt knows that keeping your herb stashed in a vacuum-sealed jar or a smell-proof bag (perfect for holiday travels) will ensure that your have a better smoking experience every time they light up—not to mention keep nosy neighbors out of their business. If your giftee is particularly paranoid when it comes to smoking in shared spaces, might we suggest tossing a Bougie Room Spray (that smells like sandalwood, orange, cardamom, and vanilla) in their bag? Maybe it’s an overabundance of caution, but there’s a good chance Pops is more than familiar with the scent of pot.

On the flip side, if you're gift-hunting for your Danksgiving host this year, and really want to show up and show out, how about a tray of 24K gold joints adorning the holiday table instead of Christmas crackers, and candy cane rolling papers for all your guests to take home? They say nothing brings a family together better than some ganj. If all else fails this holiday season, might we suggest gathering the fam around a festive Christmas tree bong? Now that’s what I call a HIGH holiday.

Don’t forget that VICE readers get 15% off everything from Cannabox, starting Thanksgiving day, all the way until New Year’s Eve when using that handy promo code VICE. If you’re a first-time shopper, you can also snag a Cannabox subscription for 30% off, only on Cyber Monday, using—one more time with feeling—the promo code: VICECB. Sadly, codes cannot be combined, but you can snag multiple deals by shopping both sales.

Spark up some joy.

The Rec Room staff independently selected all of the stuff featured in this story. Want more reviews, recommendations, and red-hot deals?Sign up for our newsletter.

Enlarge / Nvidia's RTX 4090. (credit: Sam Machkovech)

A few weeks ago, some early adopters of Nvidia's new flagship RTX 4090 GPU began reporting that the cards' power connectors were overheating and melting their plastic casing, sometimes causing damage to the outrageously fast and expensive GPUs.

For Nvidia's part, the company is still looking into the failures. "We continue to investigate the reports, however we don't have further details to share yet," according to an Nvidia rep talking to KitGuru earlier this week. But the YouTubers at the Gamers Nexus channel have been conducting their own in-depth research, and in short, they believe that the problems are mostly being caused by improperly seated power connectors. "Foreign-object debris" inside the connector can also cause problems, but Gamers Nexus believes this kind of damage is much rarer.

The failure that Gamers Nexus was able to re-create in its labs involved connecting the 12VHPWR power connector to an RTX 4090 without inserting it fully and then bending the cable to one side, making the connection even worse. After just a few minutes of testing, the loose connection's high power resistance generated heat above 250° Celsius, causing smoke and visible bubbling as the connector melted in its socket.

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Cascade Lake and Skylake prove even more expensive than expected

VLSI Technology, a patent holding company affiliated with Softbank's Fortress Investment Group, has been awarded $948.8 million in a patent infringement claim against Intel Corporation.…

Enlarge / Nvidia and Microsoft are teaming up on an AI cloud supercomputer. (credit: Nvidia)

On Wednesday, Nvidia announced a collaboration with Microsoft to build a "massive" cloud computer focused on AI. It will reportedly use tens of thousands of high-end Nvidia GPUs for applications like deep learning and large language models. The companies aim to make it one of the most powerful AI supercomputers in the world.

In turn, the new supercomputer will feature thousands of units of what is arguably the most powerful GPU in the world, the Hopper H100, which Nvidia launched in October. Nvidia will also provide its second most powerful GPU, the A100, and utilize its Quantum-2 InfiniBand networking platform, which can transfer data at 400 gigabits per second between servers, linking them together into a powerful cluster.

Meanwhile, Microsoft will contribute its Azure cloud infrastructure and ND- and NC-series virtual machines. Nvidia's AI Enterprise platform will tie the whole thing together. The companies will also collaborate on DeepSpeed, Microsoft's deep learning optimization software.

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Communication planet Mercury enters broadminded fire sign Sagittarius at 12:42 PM. Information can spread far and wide quickly at this time! People’s minds are especially open, and it’s an exciting time to brainstorm and share ideas. Mercury in Sagittarius favors big picture thinking… just be careful not to overlook details. Helping us stay organized and grounded is the moon in diligent earth sign Virgo!

All times ET.

Read your monthly horoscope for November!

Stay in the cosmic loop with the VICE horoscopes newsletter. Get horoscopes straight to your inbox when you sign up here!

Aries: March 20, 2022 - April 19, 2022

Messenger planet Mercury enters fellow fire sign Sagittarius, inspiring an energizing and uplifting mood! Exciting news may arrive. You could be making travel plans or focusing on your studies. The moon in Virgo can find you tackling your to-do list.

Taurus: April 19, 2022 - May 20, 2022

You could be settling a debt or otherwise getting your finances reorganized, especially money you share with a partner, as Mercury enters Sagittarius. The moon in fellow earth sign Virgo lights up the romance and creativity sector of your chart!

Gemini: May 20, 2022 - June 21, 2022

Your ruling planet Mercury enters your opposite sign Sagittarius, which can open lines of communication with your partners, and find you connecting with exciting people! The moon in Virgo inspires a warm, cozy atmosphere at home.

Cancer: June 21, 2022 - July 22, 2022

Mercury enters Sagittarius, which can find you reorganizing your schedule or workspace. This could be an especially productive period for you! The moon in Virgo lights up the communication sector of your chart, encouraging discussion.

Leo: July 22, 2022 - August 22, 2022

Mercury enters fellow fire sign Sagittarius, which could bring plenty of social invitations your way. Communication with romantic partners can deepen. Creative breakthroughs take place! You might also be organizing your budget as the moon moves through hardworking Virgo.

Virgo: August 22, 2022 - September 22, 2022

Mercury enters Sagittarius, which can find you connecting with or discussing the past. Discussions about home or family life may take place. The moon in your sign, Virgo, and you’re connecting with your feelings in some significant way.

Libra: September 22, 2022 - October 23, 2022

The mood is especially chatty as Mercury enters Sagittarius! You could be busy organizing paperwork and responding to texts and emails. This can be a fantastic time for research or for sharing information. The moon is in Virgo, finding you exploring your psyche or connecting with your inner voice.

Scorpio: October 23, 2022 - November 22, 2022

Mercury enters Sagittarius, perhaps kicking up discussions concerning finances! An intriguing discussion about wealth can take place. The moon in Virgo could find you exploring a new interest or spending time on some of your favorite hobbies.

Sagittarius: November 22, 2022 - December 21, 2022

Mercury enters your zodiac sign, Sagittarius, which can find you in an especially talkative mood! Exciting news may be shared. The moon in Virgo could find you reflecting on your professional goals and your life in the public eye.

Capricorn: December 21, 2021 - January 19, 2022

Mercury enters Sagittarius, encouraging you to connect with your inner voice and your imagination. Creative breakthroughs can take place, especially if you catch up on rest! The moon in fellow earth sign Virgo could find you focused on your studies or planning your next trip.

Aquarius: January 19, 2022 - February 18, 2022

Mercury enters Sagittarius, inspiring a busy atmosphere in your social life. This can be an exciting time to make new friends! Forward momentum can be made in group efforts. The moon in Virgo could find you resolving a debt. 

Pisces: February 18, 2022 - March 20, 2022

Mercury enters Sagittarius, kicking up conversations about your career or your life in the public eye. There could be a big “buzz” about you and your talents! The moon in Virgo can find you connecting with new acquaintances or learning more about a current partner!

We’re no longer edging the holidays, mate. We’re elbow-deep in turkey-basting saísön, wading through early Black Friday deals and advent calendar gift guides while Enya’s winter CD is on full-blast. It’s making us happy, it makes us hungry, and, most of all, it is making us horny for the latest holiday sex toy from Spencer’s Gifts. Warm up the milk and cookies, folks—the snowman clitoral vibrator has arrived.

This frosty sex toy comes to us from Spencer’s, the esteemed makers of this Santa-themed dildo and a rubber duck clitoral vibrator that’s giving us flashbacks to the (perpetually sold-out; RIP) Blowfish vibrator, one of the best and most affordable clitoral toys we’ve tested at the VICE. Most of all, with its festive drop, Spencer’s posits one of life’s more niche existential questions, Why not fuck a snowman? Just look at the eager, gaping mouth of this snow boi; peep his jaunty infinity scarf. You’d never know it from the 4.5-inch tall frame, but the snowman has a powerful, rechargeable motor that can go for two hours straight. That’s a lot of heat for such a frosty gent, and if it’s anything like its Blowfish cousin, it’ll knock our socks off.

Stuff the snowman in your stocking, gift him to your BFF for Hanukkah, or bring him to the white elephant party for a hoot. Sure, Frosty the snowman is traditionally Christmas-oriented lore, but I always thought of him as a more non-denominational winter icon growing up; he just wants to smoke a pipe in a top hat outside of your house. He’s the kind of un-anthropomorphized 90s Michael Keaton-esque snow mound you could crack a cold one open with at the bodega—thoughtful, but not fussy. Just three stacked, massive snow balls that melt away by the time you really start to feel attached (“Don't you cry I'll be back again some day!” my ass). What more could someone with daddy issues you want from a sex toy? What better way to sexually dom your fear of abandonement?

You don’t need to read Dostoevsky to feel something this winter. You just need to fuck this snowman.

The Snowman vibrator can be purchased at Spencer’s.

The Rec Room staff independently selected all of the stuff featured in this story. Want more reviews, recommendations, and red-hot deals? Sign up for our newsletter.

Why is it that, sometimes, Secret Santa feels like a trap? Not in a Panic Room way, even though last-minute gift shopping sure makes our brains spin out, but because we often fall prey to the self-inflicted pressure of finding the perfect present for a friend, co-worker, or family member that says, “I know you better than the rest, because I am better than the rest.”  

The best Secret Santa gifts also have to feel lowkey-cool. There’s nothing more awkward than the moment everyone in the friend group reveals their giftees—and corresponding rad presents for under $20—whilst you unveil that Swavorski crystal-studded ice sculpture swan for an office rando (or an iPod), which totally blew past the previously agreed-upon budget. In the words of Lana Del Rey, “the silence is deafening.” 

Luckily, we’re here to help you find a Secret Santa gift that hits—nay, absolutely body-slams—the perfect note between thoughtful, classy, and just-deranged-enough—and they're all under $50. 

They’re a meme lord

How this cursed Sanic Hegehog meme mug made its way onto Etsy is a mystery, but we must protect it at all costs. Also, don’t be surprised if a version of this shows up on Bodega soon for $49.99. Get it while it’s underground, buddy.

An invigorating candle

Mint is the master herb of making us feel awake, refreshed, and ready to attract money (depending on which witches you ask). This candle even comes with its own mint seeds in the mix, and has grounding notes of cedarwood. In situations—like an office-wide Secret Santa—great-smelling candles are the perfect option; we love a gift we can enjoy too.

The streetwear buddy

Don’t know what size they are? Buy them a baseball cap. Everyone could use one that has “Daddy” printed on the front, whether your giftee is a new father, a cheeky Insta-fluencer, or just wants to blend in during the annual Bushwick Tractor Pull Jamboree, Sponsored by Willie Nelson. (Not a thing; we wish.)

They’re obsessed with food

Well, everyone needs a personality trait. The best gifts for food-lovers are easy—just find out what they like to eat (or what they pretend to like to eat) and hook it up. If you’re not sure about their culinary preferences, we recommend Fly By Jing’s crowd-pleasing Sichuan chili crisp, which—we should warn you—is highly addictive. 

They’re a self-proclaimed ‘mixologist’

Not to brag, but they’ve gotten into three (3) physical altercations with bartenders who’ve tried to serve them margaritas made with sour mix. The next step in their cocktail journey? Growing their own herbs for syrups and garnishes with this nifty little cocktail herb garden kit.   

Or, if they’ve been feeling a little uninspired lately, or they’re just looking to broaden their drink-making know-how, they’ll want to lick the pages of this one. The Japanese Art of the Cocktail is one of the best food and beverage cookbooks, because it walks the reader through the hallmarks of Japanese cocktail-making methods, from an unscrupulous commitment to great ingredients, to the importance of creativity and presentation—without ever feeling pretentious. 

They live in Connecticut and smoke weed

Nothing like pulling out a little CBD quince gummy by Martha Stewart herself from their Sperrys. Now all they need to do is learn how to do that sick rope hitch thing.

They’re a ‘cyclist’ now

Or, at least until they get their SR-22. Regardless of the reason that they’re riding on two wheels these days, support your friends and their healthy hobby by gifting them this wallet made from a reclaimed bike tube (aka: the inflatable ring that sits inside of most bike tires).

They’re a morning person

Even though we’ll be hitting snooze for another hour, we respect those who rise with the sun and attack the day. To help fuel their carpe diem attitude, why not gift them a dope electric gooseneck kettle? It’s perfect for making coffee, tea, or a litany of other great coffee alternatives. (Or, they can always use it to make instant ramen.)

Cold-blooded slippers 

These fuzzy slippers aren’t just aesthetically pleasing—they have built-in temperature control. When it’s cold, you can heat the removable insoles up in the microwave to keep your toes toasty and enhance the built-in lavender scent. In the warmer months, you can cool them down in the fridge and treat your feet to a refreshingly chilled sole. The future is nigh.

They have ears

And those things get chilly! Make sure your giftee is correctly bundled up this winter by bestowing upon them a sweet pair of earmuffs. You can go in pretty much any direction you want here: the OGs, a reversible ear band from The North Face (perfect for outdoor fitness freaks), or a fun set of (b)ear-muffs. 

They’re a fiend… 

…For sweets! A DIY chocolate truffle kit is the perfect gift for the sweet-lover on your list—just melt the French dark chocolate morsels, and add any of the included coconut flakes, peppermint, vanilla, Himalayan sea salt. Mmm. 

They’ve been very naughty this year

And now Krampus has to give them a sexy spanking. (We don’t make the rules!)

This is their beer commercial now

Fall in love all over again when you watch them open your brewski with this silver, sparkling claw. “[It has a ] very solid feel,” writes one reviewer, “handles well, [and] is great to have for oyster roasts, low country boils, or just popping a cold one.”

They’re either a construction worker or a graphic designer 

And we love them either way! Carhartt is for the people, people, and the people cry out for a way to keep their lunches cold when they’re on the job or heading to the local art swap.

They’re working on their jump shot

Nothing takes the edge off a hard day at work quite like a little bit of physical activity. This dorm room classic is just as enjoyable today as it was back during your college days (though don’t blame us if you get caught hooping while you’re supposed to be filing your Q4 expense reports).

They’re a little salty

Like the old saying goes, “the way to someone’s heart is through their stomach.” While, yes, this is just fancy salt, there’s no turning back once you’ve actually incorporated this into your kitchen; normal Morton’s salt just doesn’t hit the same. Perfect for finishing off steaks or even topping a simple salad, this is one gift that no one would buy for themselves (but will actually use on a regular basis).

When in doubt, get a little weird with it

You can be as sincere and thoughtful as you want, but there’s no getting around the fact that Secret Santa gifting scenarios are primed for jokes and gag gifts. Honestly, the wackier the present, the more memorable the experience—and isn’t that the real gift of the holiday season? Besides, who says your giftee wouldn’t get some use out of a toast-shaped lamp (that can hold a phone in its lil feet!)

Enjoy your Secret Santas! (We hope you get your crush.) 

The Rec Room staff independently selected all of the stuff featured in this story.

Norway, France also sound data privacy alarms

World Cup apps from the Qatari government collect more personal information than they need to, according to Germany's data protection agency, which this week warned football fans to only install the two apps "if it is absolutely necessary." Also: consider using a burner phone.…

Enlarge / An Amazon Echo Dot 4th Generation smart speaker. (credit: Getty Images | Gado )

Amazon has started a round of layoffs that reportedly could cut about 10,000 jobs. Layoffs began yesterday in the Amazon hardware division that makes products including Echo, Alexa, Fire, and Kindle devices.

"We notified impacted employees yesterday, and will continue to work closely with each individual to provide support, including assisting in finding new roles," Amazon Senior VP of Devices & Services Dave Limp wrote to his department's staff today in a memo posted publicly by Amazon. Limp wrote that Amazon "continue[s] to face an unusual and uncertain macroeconomic environment... After a deep set of reviews, we recently decided to consolidate some teams and programs."

"It pains me to have to deliver this news as we know we will lose talented Amazonians from the Devices & Services org as a result... While I know this news is tough to digest, I do want to emphasize that the Devices & Services organization remains an important area of investment for Amazon," the memo said.

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Linux Foundation presents IT and help to key volunteers – and some wonder if this is a deal with the Devil

Special report  The free and open source software (FOSS) community is caught in a love triangle of sorts, and it's all down to money.…

The protostar L1527 is embedded within a cloud of material that is feeding its growth.

Just last month, the James Webb Telescope gifted us a spectacular new image of the Pillars of Creation—arguably the most famous image taken by Webb's predecessor, the Hubble Space Telescope, in 1995. Now the telescope is giving astronomers clues about the formation of a new star, with a stunning image of an hourglass-shaped dark cloud surrounding a protostar, an object known as L1527.

As we've reported previously, the James Webb Space Telescope launched in December 2021 and, after a suspenseful sunshield and mirror deployment over several months, began capturing stunning images. First, there was the deep field image of the Universe, released in July. This was followed by images of exoplanet atmospheres, the Southern Ring Nebula, a cluster of interacting galaxies called Stephan's Quintet, and the Carina Nebula, a star-forming region about 7,600 light-years away.

In August, we received gorgeous images of Jupiter, including the auroras at both poles that result from Jupiter's powerful magnetic field, as well as its thin rings and two of the gas giant's small moons. This was followed a month later by a mosaic image showing a panorama of star formation stretching across a staggering 340 light-years in the Tarantula Nebula—so named because of its long, dusty filaments. We also were treated to spectacular images of Neptune and its rings, which have not been directly observed since Voyager 2 flew by the planet in 1989, and, as already mentioned, the Pillars of Creation.

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Info-stealing trojan is hidden in malicious PyPI packages on GitHub

WASP malware is using steganography and polymorphism to evade detection with malicious Python packages designed to steal credentials, personal information, and cryptocurrency.…

Enlarge / In addition to getting faster over the years, F1 cars have also gotten far more efficient. And that's only going to increase in the coming years. (credit: Jared C. Tilton/Getty Images)

When Formula 1 cars take to the track for the first time in 2026, they'll do so powered by carbon-neutral synthetic fuels, part of the sport's "net zero by 2030" plan. It's a laudable goal, but, I confess, one I've sometimes questioned. After all, most of the carbon emitted during the course of an F1 weekend comes from the same sources as any other popular sport—the teams and fans traveling to and from the event. But after speaking with Pat Symonds, Formula 1's chief technical officer, I may have been missing the forest for the trees.

"In essence, yes, you're quite right. The total carbon footprint of the sport—of scope 1, 2—is just over a quarter million tonnes of CO2 equivalent, and the cars on the circuit represent 0.7 percent of that," Symonds explained to me. "So yes, your premise is true. But we try and take a much wider view. And what I think we have in developing a sustainable fuel and putting it in our race cars is an enormous multiplier effect. The 2 billion vehicles that are out there could use this fuel, and then the 400,000 people driving to [the US Grand Prix] isn't a problem," he said.

Formula 1 has changed quite a bit in the years since Liberty Media bought it at the end of 2016 with bigger ideas than simply sucking revenue out. Instead of pretending the Internet never happened, you can now watch races via F1's own streaming service, a service that has markedly improved over the past couple of years. In the US, a move to ESPN saw the sport go commercial-free during the actual races. And, of course, there's the whole Drive to Survive phenomena, which has boosted audiences worldwide—but particularly in North America, which next year will host grands prix in Austin, Texas; Miami; and Las Vegas.

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On the night of February 28, 2021, a space rock slammed into Earth’s atmosphere and lit up the skies above the picturesque town of Winchcombe in the United Kingdom. The fireball was witnessed by more than a thousand people and was captured by numerous doorbell and dashboard cameras, sparking a social media frenzy that resulted in a hasty search for the remains of the extraterrestrial visitor. 

Within hours, about 300 grams of the so-called Winchcombe meteorite were found scattered across a local driveway and another 200 grams were recovered over the next week, including an intact chunk found on farmland.  

After more than a year of studying these otherworldly fragments, which originated in an ancient asteroid, scientists have concluded that the Winchcombe meteorite is “a unique and pristine witness from the outer solar system” that “is largely unmodified by the terrestrial environment” thanks to the rapid recovery of its parts, according to a study published on Wednesday in Science Advances.

The meteorite, which belongs to a group of space rocks called CM chondrites, is so unsullied by earthly conditions that it is comparable to samples snatched directly from the surfaces of asteroids by space probes. This pure primordial rock reveals unprecedented insights into the role asteroids played in delivering water and organic compounds to Earth billions of years ago, which has implications for understanding how life first arose on Earth, and whether it might exist elsewhere.

“Life as we know it needs two key things to have a chance at emerging: water and organic molecules—the Winchcombe meteorite has both,” said Luke Daly, a planetary geoscientist who co-authored the study, in an email to Motherboard, adding that “Winchcombe and other CMs are essentially a one-stop shop for everything a growing planet needs if it has ambitions of developing life.”

“The Earth, because of where it formed in our solar system, should have formed dry, so we need an extraterrestrial delivery service for water and organics to get our Blue planet but what is that water source?” he continued. “Winchcombe is the best evidence so far that CMs likely were a key source of water for Earth as the water in it is quite close in composition to that of the Earth as well as being rich in organics and because it was recovered so fast, we know it hasn't been changed by its time on Earth.”

Daly and his colleagues, including lead author Ashley King of the National History Museum in London, got word of the meteorite almost instantly as people posted footage of the fireball on social media. Members of the team swiftly joined the search for fragments that was coordinated by the UK Fireball Alliance (UKFAll), an organization devoted to recovering freshly fallen space rocks in the nation.

“The next day we woke up to an inbox full of the best emails from our colleagues saying there are likely meteorites on the ground,” Daly recalled. “I genuinely couldn't believe it when the driveway fragment was found and was even more gobsmacked when my partner found another piece while we were searching for it. I didn't have any good words then and still don't really have them now for that feeling of realizing that over five years of work from everyone in UKFAll had paid off in such a spectacular fashion!”

The voluminous footage of the fireball distinguishes it as “the most accurately recorded carbonaceous chondrite fall” in history, according to the study. In addition to this visual evidence, Daly and his colleagues have painstakingly examined select meteorite fragments using a host of sophisticated techniques, which has revealed amazing details about its backstory.

For instance, the researchers estimate that the meteorite was once part of a primitive asteroid that formed in the outer solar system but eventually ended up in the main belt located roughly between the orbits of Mars and Jupiter. 

An analysis of the rock’s exposure to cosmic rays suggests that it split off from its parent asteroid relatively recently, and that it has only been hanging around in near-Earth space for a maximum of 80,000 years, whereas most CMs are over two million years old. This asteroid chunk was likely small, weighing about 28 pounds, which would normally result in no surviving traces.

“We knew it had potential to contain some really cool stuff we don't normally see, but what really cinched it I think was when we got the first data on the fireball back and realized that it had no right to have survived coming through our atmosphere, and just how lucky we were to have any meteorites on the ground at all,” Daly said. “It was only originally about the size of a basketball and if it had come at a slightly different angle or slightly slower or faster would have completely burnt up in the atmosphere.” 

Thanks to the survival of these meteorite fragments, the new study—which was co-authored by over 100 experts—probed new details about the rocky relics that produce chondritic rocks. In this way, the Winchcombe meteorite bolsters the theory that Earth became habitable to life in part because space rocks brought water and organic compounds to our planet when they crashed into it more than four billion years ago. Moreover, further examination of the meteorite is likely to open a new window into our early solar system, and the emergence of life on Earth.

“There is so much more exciting science to come out of this stone, it's impossible to cover it all,” Daly said, noting that he is personally fascinated by its diverse composition and its orbital similarities to other chondritic meteorites, which may hint that CMs largely come from the same place. 

“Because of all the amazing stories about how it was found, it was always a unique and special stone in our hearts and always will be,” he concluded. 

We love upgrading the urban nest we call home, and that means shopping for furniture, especially when it comes to buying a snazzy new couch or a swish statement chair. Aside from being the location where we stop looking at bad screen and start looking at good screen, it’s also the centerpiece of our living spaces—big or small.

If, like us, you live in a place that’s subject to chilly nights (especially now that we’re many long months away from spring and summer), a comfy sofa is nice, but a heated chair or couch, though—now that’s luxury. We’ll take every chance we get for an opportunity to sit back and enjoy that feeling of being enrobed in warmth, especially if we have an excuse. This time around, we put our monthly luxury hand soap splurge and bougie boxer purchase on hold to save up for the best heated chairs and couches. Be wary of all ye who enter this cushy universe: This ain’t no regular chair or couch—different massage modes, USB ports, sumptuous padding, and, of course, heating functionality are all factors to keep in mind when browsing. Pop a squat.

Work in tranquility

It’s easy to justify splurging on a couch upgrade since it’s the main chilling spot of the house, but considering how grinding at the (home) office is one of the most stressful parts of everyone’s day, springing for a heated office chair might be the real flex. This chair has the power to make even the longest workday just a little bit more relaxing. As you’re typing away like a maniac, cue up a massage (choose from eight modes), fire up the heat that reaches up to 100 degrees Fahrenheit, and perch your feet on a reclining footrest. Patrick Bateman would approve.

Invite the bois over

This may be the Rolls Royce of sofas, and it’s from our dad’s favorite furniture store: Raymour & Flanigan. Daddy knows best, and we strongly believe this five-seater sectional belongs in your bachelor pad. It features heated massage seats, power reclining options, a power headrest, light-up cup holders that keep your natty bevs frosty, and built-in USB ports to keep your precious iPhone alive at all times. With no less than six seating surfaces, this is the perfect excuse to invite all your bros over for a tasteful viewing of Dodgeball.

Indulge in a pint

Whether you’re indulging in a romance novel or a pint of Van Leeuwen, there’s nothing quite as luxurious as sitting in this heated chair from Wayfair. This heated chair features 360-degree rotation, five acupressure massage modes and two massage strengths, manual recline, two cup holders, and heating to keep toasty this upcoming winter. It sure beats those massage chairs randomly placed in the mall (can anyone explain why they were across from GameStop???).

For high-maintenance outdoorsy folks

Camping out in the wilderness is not for the faint of heart, especially in the winter. Make your trip to Yellowstone National Park more bearable with this heated chair by Gobi that can reach up to 131 degrees Fahrenheit. Is it high-maintenance? Kind of, but who cares if people judge your glamping stint. Choose from three heat settings that target the seat and back—low, medium, and high. Heating can last up to nine hours and is powered by a lithium battery.

His and hers

A side by side loveseat? How cute. Whisper sweet nothings into each other's ear and feed your lover fondue as you sit back and bask in a heated massage. With dual remote functionality, you and your seating partner each modify your massage strength and heating levels on the fly. With a massage function that targets eight different pressure points, has three different modes and intensities, heating, and a built-in timer, this loveseat could be the start of a beautiful relationship.

Not your grandpa’s chair

Anything that’s faux leather is at risk of radiating strong community-center-library energy. You deserve to feel like you can at least pretend you have money when building out your at-home study, and this chair from Wayfair should hit the mark when it comes to comfortable reading chairs that also look like James Bond would approve. This recliner includes a heated seat, and offers massaging panels in the back, lumbar, thigh, and leg area to soothe muscles with five different massage modes: pulse, press, wave, auto, and normal. The best part about the material? You can easily wipe it clean if you spill Pinot Noir on its surface during an especially rousing study sesh.

Warm your buns and cool your jets—these seats are built for relaxing.

The Rec Room staff independently selected all of the stuff featured in this story. Want more reviews, recommendations, and red-hot deals? Sign up for our newsletter.

Every holiday season, you'll see about a bajillion gift guides out there, ranging from the basic (get Dad a tie! get Mom a robe!) to the advanced (Brutalist calendars! phone cases that look like a butcher knife!). And while we're massively grateful for all of these guides—and truly wish to service our readers with all of the ones we've put together—sometimes, nothing really compares to a personal touch [squirts massage oil into hands].

What do we mean by that? Well, we're talking about gift ideas that are so unabashedly incredible, we literally want them for ourselves. We're talking about the shit we're bookmarking, screenshotting, DMing to the squad, and leaving open in a tab for weeks under the impression that somehow it will go way down in price (and occasionally, it does!). 

We gathered up our writers and editors and compiled a comprehensive gift guide to the stuff so maddeningly sick that we, ourselves, are obsessed with it—whether from afar or from personal experience. Read on for the best gift ideas for your boo, your mama, your piano teacher, your skate park crush, your club hookup, or just straight up yourself. 

A sculptural shrimp candle

When will someone finally take me seriously enough to give me this work of art? Yes, it’s a glorious, handcrafted shrimp made of wax, almost too perfect to burn, and it’s at the tippity-top of my wishlist this year. As someone with a serious shrimp fetish, nothing would make me squeal with delight more than unwrapping this shrimp cocktail for one. —Becca Blasdel

A status fog machine

Never thought I’d describe a fog machine as “status,” but then Rick Owens—of course it was Rick Owens—came along and made a gold fog machine, complete with its own stainless steel carrying case. In a past life, I was a DJ and I was always, always begging for the fog machine to be cranked higher. In my dreams, this is the fog machine I’d load with Bog Fog and use to create a sweaty, strobe-y swamp on the dance floor. Yes, it is $5,250. I will not be taking any more questions at this time. —Hilary Pollack

This mini Atari

Sometimes, God gives his tastiest treats to his hungriest nerds. Not only can you find full-scale Ataris on Amazon, but you can also find a mini Atari that cuts no corners with the details; there’s even a functioning joystick with this pre-programmed 2600 console, and 10 pre-loaded games such as Pac-Man. As one reviewer writes, “I am constantly feeling like I want to buy shrink ray from Rick Morantis and shrink myself down to the size of [it]]. I guess it’s a side effect of owning one of these.” It’s also only 24 bucks, and a great gift for someone you just started dating who you want to low-key impress. —Mary Frances “Francky” Knapp  

A candle that smells way more expensive than it is

Personally, I’ve always been a fan of Malin+Goetz’s stuff, which spans all sorts of good-smelling stuff. The cream of the crop, though? In this humble writer’s opinion, it’s the perfectly priced candles. While there’s plenty of great scents that the brand has on deck, when the temperature drops I love the Leather candle. According to Malin+Goetz, the profile has a spectrum of scents that starts with notes like eucalyptus and clove, progresses to orchid and finishes with a base of cedarwood, cashmere musk, and—of course—leather. If you’re asking me though, it just smells warm and expensive (so, basically, perfect for holiday gifting). —Gregory Babcock

The ideal gift for a Taurus (or anyone who lives to sleep)

I’m an absolute freak for bedding the way that some people are really into crypto or classic cars or whatever. The way I feel about trying an exciting new sheet set is the way Marvel nerds feel about Comic-Con. (Yes, something is probably wrong with me.) Anyway, when I recently got my hands on Brooklinen’s cashmere sheets, it was a match made in heaven, and I’ve slept on them every night since. I was initially concerned that I might wake up drenched in sweat, as though I’d slept in a giant, oppressive winter sweater, but on the contrary, they’re not only crazy-soft but naturally temperature-regulating. (They’re a cashmere-cotton blend, by the way.) Luxurious? Yes—these sheets are a gift for someone who really rocks your world. —Hilary Pollack

Big bossy headphones

I give up. I’ve come to terms with the fact that I cannot keep track of a pair of AirPods. They’re too tiny, too easily chewed by puppy teeth, the exact perfect size for slipping through a subway grate. After trying to cope with a cheap knockoff pair, I’ve basically stopped listening to music on the go, and instead just stare into the abyss. But not in 2023, because I am demanding a pair of statement AirPods Max in green, because they’re chic as hell and remind me of celery. —Becca Blasdel

Trompe l'oeil soaps that are just too good

Why do we love non-edible things that look like food so much? Is it the masochism of forbidden desire? Nah, it’s probably just because they’re so cute, man. If your childhood was also rooted in memories of eating these shortbread cookies out of that classic blue tin (and then repurposing the tin for sewing kits and leftovers), you’re in good company. The only problem is that the whole set is so charming you might not want to actually use the soaps to wash the smell of chopped garlic off of your hands.  —Angel Kilmister

A subscription for espresso freaks

I’m not shy about the fact that I’m truly a coffee snob, but I’m also historically a creature of extreme habit that buys the same exact espresso beans every week. Trade’s subscription might be the gift to help get me out of my caffeine comfort zone. Not only have I never seen a coffee subscription specifically designed for espresso lovers, but the service sends you the freshest beans possible from thirdwave coffee roasters that are picked and tailored to your individual taste. Sign. Me. Up. —Kate Spencer

Caress the windows to their soul 

Sure, you can easily give someone a gift card to Massage Envy, but where’s the novelty in that? It doesn’t exist. Therefore, bless someone with the gift of a Renpho eye massager to rid themselves of bloodshot, tired eyes. I’ve been using it for months and love it—it’s saved my skull many days. Its sleek, black matte edition is 58% off right now, and helps reduce eye bags, puffiness, dark circles, dry eyes, and eyes strain. —Nicolette Accardi 

Probably the best bagel slicer ever made

I went to a brunch recently and was asked to cut the bagels, and then I was handed this bagel slicer. “This is the dumbest thing I’ve ever seen,” I thought. “I will just use a regular knife.” But I obliged, and quickly realized that it’s a perfect device. It cuts bagels cleanly and evenly, and makes it nearly impossible to slice yourself (though I’m sure some will find a way). We all know the sheer adrenaline rush of the daredevil method of cutting bagels, where you palm the bagel and slowly ease a sharp-ass knife towards your own hand like an idiot. You really don’t have to do that anymore. —Adam Rothbarth

The heavy metal version of a Carrie necklace

Behold, the ‘it’ gift of the season for hesher girlies: a mini nameplate necklace on a choker chain… in black metal font! [metal horns] Giving and receiving jewelry can sometimes feel cringe, but not so with this customizable choker that will match both a Birkin bag and corpse paint. Choose from silver or gold vermeil for $185, or go big with the $1,500 diamond-encrusted white-gold version. —Hilary Pollack

It’s not a Peloton (but it doesn’t have to be)

I am not a fitness freak by any means, but I am committed to my evening workouts. While I’ve tried everything from weight-lifting (I am weak) to road-running (I have bad knees), using a stationary bike has been the best way for me to lock in some serious cardio on a regular basis. I have been a fan of this particular bike model—a no-frills stationary bike with a minimal, digital calculator-like LCD monitor for tracking speed and distance—since gyms shut down during 2020. If you’re OK with a straight-to-the-point piece of equipment and looking for an affordable alternative to a brand name bike (cough, Peloton, cough) then this bike is the perfect workout machine for helping someone take on pre- and post-holiday resolutions. —Gregory Babcock

The Bonne Maman jam advent calendar

Who doesn’t love collecting those little jam jars from pancake houses? Bonne Maman’s jam advent calendar is the perfect gift for the food-obsessed person in your life, because it’s filled with both classic and hard-to-find preserves from the iconic French jam makers such as apricot, mirabelle, white nectarine, and fig and cardamom. —Mary Frances “Francky” Knapp 

A turntable for soon-to-be record nerds

If there’s a music lover in your life who still doesn’t have a turntable, this gift is a must. In case it needs explaining: Having a record player sets a whole different mood when you’re listening to music at home. When you put on a record, the slow lowering of the needle and the constant, hypnotizing spin of the disc palpably adds to the atmosphere of your living room/conversation pit/yurt. The music is no longer some distant sound playing from your phone, it’s now this process you can see and feel as you take time to get up and flip the record over when the A-side runs out. Audio-Technica is the perfect brand for upgrading your recipient’s setup from “beginner” to “audiophile,” approved by the vinyl lords at Amoeba Records. To make this gift more personal, you could also include some of the person’s favorite albums to start their new collection. —Erica Sullivan

SKIMS’ crazy-cozy sleep set

Would you believe me if I told you I’ve never owned a matching pajama set? Like literally not even when I was a teeny tiny infant and my mom still chose my outfits. It may be cheugy, but I’m about to purchase myself (and many others on my list) this classic sleep set from SKIMS. Plus, the classic plaid is neutral enough for any holiday your giftee may (or may not) be celebrating.  —Kate Spencer

CBD gummies that actually rule

Dad Grass, maker of my favorite pre-rolled CBD joints in the game, has hit another home run with the release of its new line of gummies. There are three versions: Classic (straight CBD); Goodtime Formula (CBD + CBG); and Nighttime Formula (CBD + CBN). Honestly, they all slap, and they actually taste pretty decent, too—not astringent like some other brands. Each gummy packs 20 milligrams of CBD/G/N and less than .3% THC, meaning you’ll definitely feel waves of good vibes, but without the fear of misdosing and going too hard (like when my friend made pot brownies before we saw Godspeed You! Black Emperor, but we don’t need to get into that). Anyway, if you’re off THC for whatever reason and don’t want to smoke, but still enjoy flirting with ascension, Dad Grass gummies are the way. —Adam Rothbarth

A black-and-white view on the classic disposable camera

I’ve bought dozens of disposable cameras in my life, but this was the first disposable camera I ever bought out of a bar’s vending machine. While I’m a major fan of the iconic Kodak Funsaver, this model uses black-and-white film instead of color—putting a more dramatic spin on the classic single-use camera. When others are scrambling for their phones or fussing with filters, this camera should add a new dimension to making (and preserving) memories. —Gregory Babcock

Make your pet look like they’re going to a wedding in Joshua Tree

For some people, the best way to their heart is through their stomach; for others, it’s through their pets. For the friend who lives to show you entire slideshows of their Bengal cat or micro-aussiedoodle at every opportunity, a pet-sized bolo tie is truly the gift that will make their century. —Angel Kilmister 

Huge, fluffy UGG slippers

Ever since I gifted myself these babies for Chanukah 2021, they have not left my feet (inside my house of course). These are by far my favorite house slippers I’ve ever owned. I love the coziness of the fluff to keep my dogs warm and the fun colors to add some sunshine on a gloomy day. The best part of the Fluff Yeah Slide Slippers is the stretchy strap at the back that allows for sport mode if I’m feeling extreme in the crib. —Becca Sax

The Trinity of luxury hand care

We already belong to the cult of fancy hand soaps, of which Aesop is the GOAT thanks to its crisp, herbaceous aromas. This hand care trio from the brand unites three of its biggest icons: the Resurrection Aromatique hand wash, hand lotion, and hand sanitizer—in other words, a portable spa day for your hands. —Mary Frances “Francky” Knapp 

A silk pillowcase 

I’ve been sleeping on this Blissy silk pillowcase for months now, and it’s easily one of the most quietly luxurious parts of my day. (The other one is when I use a tiny golden spoon to put Maldon salt on my eggs.) The buttery, cooling silk pillowcase is 25% off right now, and comes in an ombré shade of amber that I like to call “Jimmy Buffett sunset.” —Mary Frances “Francky” Knapp 

A cooler that looks and is cool

Even your least nostalgic gift recipient will enjoy this retro, special edition cooler from Igloo, which comes in five ‘90s-inspired colors. I own two of them, and they’re perfect for picnics, but also amazing for house parties. Like, who doesn’t want to feel like they’re entering an episode of Saved by the Bell when they reach for another bottle of wine or Miller High Life? —Adam Rothbarth

The it-bag from heaven

Call this one a pipe dream (maybe I’ll be able to secure a sugar daddy by December 24), but once I laid my eyes upon the Bottega Veneta Mini Jodie in Denim, I went weak in the knees. I, unfortunately, am an it-bag ho, who has been on a spending freeze since the pandy—but if there’s one bag that’s gonna make me act up it’s this woven bag, very reminiscent of the 00s, made of soft woven lambskin suede, that’s printed to look like it’s actual denim. Froth. —Becca Blasdel

For the friend who always flexes how much they love spicy food

When Fly By Jing—maker of truly delightful Sichuan chile crisp, dumplings, and other modern Chinese-cuisine delights—and tinned seafood company Fishwife teamed up and made a spicy, tingly, ultra-umami salmon together, it was the collab of the year as far as I’m concerned. This snackable smoked salmon is brined in garlic salt and brown sugar, then packed into that so, so good Sichuan chile crisp oil, and it’s divine. Never thought I’d be a tinned fish girl, but here we are. It’s on the pricier side for the snack category, so it makes a great gift, IMO. —Angel Kilmister

A personalized necklace for your dog

I am whole-heartedly, unequivocally obsessed with my puppy Nugget—as I’m sure many of you first-time pet owners are—and I want to buy anything and everything for my baby no matter the price tag… so when I saw the personalized necklaces they were not a want, but a NEED. A dainty string of freshwater pearls, Austrian crystals and Czech beads adorning my most precious lady’s neck for under $100?! Abso-fucking-lutely. Also, did I mention that humans can get a matching one too (not saying this is the best gift ever, but it just might be). —Becca Sax

Do it for the mems

I’d like to publicly thank my videographer boyfriend for letting me give away his camera secret to the entire internet. He’s been carrying around these little ‘toy’ cameras—actually designed for children — that not only store your photos digitally, but also print them directly on receipt paper. It’s honestly so fun and would be perfect to bring to any holiday gathering. I’m also planning on grabbing a few extra for stocking stuffers or white-elephant situations that may be in my future. —Kate Spencer

The little home bar gift to stuff in a stocking

Have you, too, found that you and your friends have gotten really, really into dirty martinis in the last couple of years? Well, even if they’re more of the Old Fashioneds type or have gone neck-deep into tiki drinks, the drinking crowd at large will appreciate these swaggy gold cocktail picks, the perfect finishing touch for making a home-crafted drink feel like it should cost $21 at a fancy hotel lobby bar. —Hilary Pollack

Star Wars Legos for nostalgic joy

Enough with the practical gifts! As an adult you get used to receiving gifts of clothing, cookware, and candles, but rarely do we get to recapture the feeling and nostalgia that comes from opening a totally impractical toy designed strictly for entertainment value. This Lego Millennium Falcon set will not only be exciting for those who love adult Legos and Star Wars, but you’re also giving that feeling of opening something meant solely for fun—a rarity in our stressful capitalist hell! —Erica Sullivan

The foolproof classic Carhartt beanie

Still stumped? Here’s the one gift to rule them all. One can never have too many beanies, right? An iconic Carhartt beanie is perfect for anyone and everyone, given the various color options and stretchy material. Whether you’re gifting to someone who is in dire need of a beanie or someone who already has a collection started, this under-$20 gift is sure to get the approval from anyone, and I can prove it. Cousin you only speak to twice a year? Carhartt beanie. Significant other who is picky about their clothes? Carhartt beanie. Secret Santa gift exchange where you draw the ONE person who has no interests or hobbies? Carhartt beanie. It’s foolproof. —Erica Sullivan

We look forward to getting these under our figurative tinsel tree (or putting them under yours, wink wink). Happy holidays, friend of VICE.

The Rec Room staff independently selected all of the stuff featured in this story.

Enlarge / The new "Manage Access and Devices" panel in Netflix's user settings on desktop web. (credit: Netflix)

Netflix has introduced a new account management page called "Manage Access and Devices" that gives users the ability to remove access privileges from specific devices. The feature is available on both the web and in the streaming service's Android and iOS apps.

Previously, users could see a list of devices that had recently accessed their accounts, and they could revoke access to all devices simultaneously, but they could not revoke access on a case-by-case basis.

Each item in the list of devices will include an IP address-based location, a device type, and the user sub-account that most recently accessed Netflix from that device.

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