Guest Post – Malicious employees for hire: How dark web criminals recruit insiders

Posted in Commentary with tags on January 6, 2026 by itnerd

Cybercriminals can use malicious insiders as a direct means to access sensitive company resources, stealing confidential data or using the access to deploy a devastating cyberattack. Experts from NordStellar, a threat exposure management platform, have discovered that dark web actors are actively seeking insiders from specific organizations to recruit for their operations.

Researchers at NordStellar found 25 unique dark web posts from users who claim that they are searching for employees from specific organizations over the past year. A significant part of these posts focuses explicitly on insiders who work for social media or cryptocurrency platforms.

Real‑world incidents highlight how these threats can translate into actual breaches — for instance, in 2025, the cryptocurrency exchange platform Coinbase revealed that cybercriminals bribed its employees to leak user information.

“Employees can grant cybercriminals access to critical data, such as personal customer information and confidential business agreements,” says Vakaris Noreika, cybersecurity expert at NordStellar. “This data can be utilized to deploy ransomware attacks, sell intel on  business agreements to competitors, or to  carry out sophisticated phishing scams on unsuspecting victims whose personal data they managed to get their hands on.”

According to Noreika, insider threats can be challenging to spot and, therefore, may go undetected by security teams for a significant amount of time. Employees are trusted members of the organization and have legitimate access to company resources. Consequently, it can be challenging to pinpoint any anomalies in their behavior.

“Unlike external threats, insiders may not trigger typical security alerts, such as unusual login attempts or data transfers,” says Noreika. “Insiders are also familiar with the organization’s internal security policies and weaknesses, allowing them to adjust their actions to avoid suspicion.”

Direct insider recruitment

Noreika emphasizes that although some cybercriminals are searching for insiders on the dark web, the recruitment process is usually carried out privately. Bad actors target specific employees within the organization, especially those with technical capabilities that aid in their operations or have access to highly sensitive company data.

Mantas Sabeckis, a senior threat intelligence researcher at Nord Security, home to NordStellar and other advanced cybersecurity solutions, shares that he has been contacted by cybercriminals for possible recruitment opportunities numerous times. He explains that in the past, bad actors have reached out to him on LinkedIn, most likely intrigued by his experience in cybersecurity, and notes that the process of cybercriminals recruiting insiders likely follows the same playbook.

“In my experience, after the first few messages, bad actors try to direct the communication to a different channel, such as Telegram or WhatsApp,” says Sabeckis. “One time, I was contacted by a recruitment specialist from Singapore searching for a candidate for a role in a large organization. She did not name the specific organization and asked to continue our conversation on WhatsApp, which is not an unusual request in itself, as different messaging platforms are popular in different countries.”

According to Sabeckis, after their conversation moved to WhatsApp, the recruiter started sharing more details — she explained that she was looking to recruit an individual to work for a wealthy and influential family in Singapore, without disclosing which one.

“The statement definitely raised red flags, but I was curious to hear what exactly they were looking for,” says Sabeckis. “She continued to explain that the role would be similar to a bug bounty. When asked for more details, the recruiter finally divulged that they were looking for an individual to take down websites containing very sensitive and illegal material, offering to provide compensation in cryptocurrency.”

Sabeckis explains that, by its nature, the role fell into a “gray area,” which is a common tactic used by bad actors to recruit individuals. After the recruited individuals have their foot in the door, the tasks eventually become more demanding. Evidence of the individuals completing the tasks is later used as leverage to blackmail the person into carrying out illegal activity or risk being compromised.

Safeguarding against insider threats

Noreika emphasizes that high observability into system and data usage is the foundation of an insider threat-resistant cybersecurity strategy. He explains that any unexpected system behavior or access patterns must be flagged, reported, and thoroughly examined.

“Patterns of unusual behaviour are the first indicator that the user might be an insider,” says Noreika. “Security teams should keep an eye out for employees who are frequently accessing sensitive information and make sure that they have the proper authorization. Data exfiltration to external parties or devices is another major red flag to look out for.”

He explains that data loss prevention tools are essential for reducing the possibility of data theft and transfer from within. Proper network segmentation and the implementation of strong access controls to prevent privilege drift, the accumulation of excess access rights, are other necessary security measures to stop insiders and attackers who have already infiltrated the network from acquiring sensitive data.

“Dark web monitoring for information leaks or posts looking for insiders at the company is also crucial,” says Noreika. “It can be the first warning sign that a company might be at greater risk of being exposed. After flagging such activity, it’s necessary to stay on high alert and ensure that all of the precautionary measures, as well as a recovery plan, are in place.”

According to Noreika, an incident recovery plan is a significant requisite in minimizing the fallout of a cyberattack caused by insider threats. An effective recovery plan should cover incident detection and outline the key steps the organization should take to contain the threat and mitigate damage.

These steps may include removing the malicious employee’s access to sensitive data and ensuring that an external attacker who has been working with the insider connection to the network has been terminated.

ABOUT NORDSTELLAR

NordStellar is a next-generation threat exposure management platform that enables companies to detect and respond to cyber threats before they escalate. It includes solutions like dark web and data breach monitoring, helping to prevent account takeovers, session hijacking, and other threats. NordStellar was created by Nord Security, a globally recognized company behind one of the world’s most popular digital privacy tools, NordVPN. For more information, visit nordstellar.com

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Hackers Exploit FortiWeb Devices to Deploy Sliver C2 for Persistent Access

Posted in Commentary with tags on January 5, 2026 by itnerd

Researchers have identified a threat actor who had exposed Sliver C2 databases and logs and successfully exploited multiple FortiWeb devices to deploy Sliver. This group also leveraged React2Shell (CVE-2025-55182) in order to deploy Sliver and leveraged the tool fast reverse proxy (FRP) to expose local services on victim hosts remotely.

More details here:  https://ctrlaltintel.com/threat%20research/FortiWeb-Sliver/

Ensar Seker, CISO at threat intelligence company SOCRadar, commented:

“This is a textbook case of adversaries exploiting the weakest link in the network, outdated edge appliances. FortiWeb devices running unpatched firmware have become prime targets for initial access, and the deployment of the Sliver C2 framework shows how mature and stealthy these operations have become. Sliver, being an open-source post-exploitation tool, is now favored by both red teams and threat actors alike for its modularity and evasiveness.

What’s especially concerning is the use of Fast Reverse Proxy (FRP) to create persistent tunnels from within internal networks to attacker-controlled infrastructure. This is a clear attempt to sidestep traditional perimeter defenses and EDR visibility. It raises serious questions about visibility on network edge devices, which are often poorly monitored compared to endpoint systems.

This incident underscores the importance of aggressive patch management, zero-trust architecture, and strong monitoring of ingress/egress traffic from non-endpoint infrastructure like WAFs and VPN gateways. Simply deploying EDR is no longer enough if attackers can establish a persistent beachhead on devices outside its scope.”

This should be a wakeup call to get this sort of tech out of networks as soon as possible so that networks become more secure by default.

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Hisense Makes A Number Of Announcements At CES Today

Posted in Commentary with tags on January 5, 2026 by itnerd

Hisense today unveils its visionary 163MX RGBY Micro-LED Display at CES 2026, presenting a glimpse into the future of ultra-large display technology and earning a prestigious CES 2026 Innovation Award for its industry-first four-primary Micro-LED colour architecture. As a new iteration of Micro-LED display, the 163MX demonstrates Hisense’s continued leadership in pushing the boundaries of colour performance and pioneering foundational display innovations.

The 163MX introduces the industry’s first four-primary RGBY (Red, Green, Blue, Yellow) Micro-LED architecture, adding a yellow sub-pixel to the traditional RGB structure to fill the critical spectral gap between 500 – 600nm, a range where conventional Micro-LED displays fall short and often mute a content’s intended look. By restoring this missing range, the 163MX dramatically enhances colour fidelity and delivers a level of colour expression no Micro-LED has achieved before.

To maintain colour fidelity across its massive canvas, the 163MX employs advanced colour management techniques that precisely balance luminance and chromatic uniformity across 33.17 million subpixels. The result is a display capable of achieving up to 100 per cent of the BT.2020 colour space, establishing a new benchmark for spectral range and accuracy in true Micro-LED technology.

A Vision for the Future of Large-Format Displays

Beyond colour performance, the 163MX reflects Hisense’s broader exploration of how ultra-large displays can exist more seamlessly in premium environments. Despite its imposing scale, the display features a refined, minimalist design with an ultra-slim 32mm profile and a precision zero-gap wall mount, allowing it to integrate neatly into architectural spaces while maintaining an immersive, cinematic presence.

The 163MX offers a clear view into the next phase of Micro-LED development, highlighting how the technology can evolve to balance scale, visual impact and refined design.

Leading the Next Era of Color Technology

As a CES 2026 Best of Innovation Award winner, the 163MX represents a defining moment in Hisense’s pursuit of next-generation colour technology. The award recognizes Hisense’s pioneering work in expanding the colour spectrum through RGBY Micro-LED and underscores the company’s broader mission to continuously advance display technology through meaningful, forward-looking innovation.

From pioneering RGB technologies to advancing multi-primary systems and now reshaping the future of Micro-LED, Hisense remains committed to delivering richer, more expressive and more accessible visual experiences. The 163MX is not just an award-winning display, it is a testament to the company’s role as a global leader in the future of colour. 

Hisense also introduces its most sophisticated RGB Mini-LED televisions to date. As the first TV manufacturer to bring true RGB Local Dimming technology to the market in 2025, Hisense returns this year with a rapid evolution of that breakthrough. This evolution is led by the flagship 116UXS and expands RGB into a more accessible RGB Mini-LED lineup for the first time via the new UR9 and UR8 Series, providing unprecedented colour precision across a wide range of screen sizes.

In 2025, Hisense reshaped the colour conversation entirely by introducing the first consumer RGB Mini-LED TV. Now, Hisense advances that work on two fronts. At the flagship level, the company is introducing a new multi-primary colour system, RGB Mini-LED evo in the 116UXS, expanding the colour spectrum and deepening wavelength-level precision beyond what RGB alone can achieve. At the same time, Hisense is evolving and scaling its RGB technology, rolling it out across the new RGB Mini-LED lineup with even more screen sizes, from 55 to 100 inches, bringing high-performance RGB to a wider audience.

“Accelerated innovation is a hallmark of Hisense,” says Puneet Jain, Senior Director of Marketing and E-commerce at Hisense Canada. “We’re bringing advanced technologies to market faster, scaling them sooner and making them accessible to more homes. This year’s expansion of RGB technology is another example of how we continue to lead the industry forward. It’s the kind of progress that reinforces why Hisense is one of the most dynamic pioneers in the TV market today.”

116UXS and the Four-Colour RGB Revolution

The 116UXS represents the fullest expression of Hisense’s colour philosophy. Colour has always been central to the way Hisense approaches display innovation, not just as a specification, but as the foundation of how viewers connect emotionally with what’s on screen. This year, that philosophy comes to life through Hisense’s new RGB Mini-LED evo backlight system, a four-primary architecture that adds cyan to the current RGB structure.

Cyan sits in the part of the spectrum where human vision is most sensitive to subtle changes, and its addition allows the 116UXS to render gradients, tones and transitions with a level of nuance that feels more natural and lifelike. Scenes gain depth without oversaturation, shadows reveal smoother detail and bright content maintains clarity, creating a picture that feels richer and more dimensional in everyday viewing, not just in dramatic HDR moments.

Powered by the Hi-View AI Engine RGB, the 116UXS intelligently manages tens of thousands of colour dimming zones to preserve this tonal accuracy across fast motion, bright highlights and dark scenes and delivers up to 110% of BT.2020 colour coverage. A nearly bezel-free design and slim 1.57-inch profile keep attention on the picture, while a Devialet Opéra de Paris 6.2.2 audio system provides cinematic sound that complements the display’s enhanced colour performance.

The result is a flagship TV that advances Hisense’s colour story in a meaningful way, pairing next-generation RGB Mini-LED evo technology with a design and processing engine built to make every scene feel more expressive, more precise and more immersive.

RGB For Every Home: New RGB Mini-LED Series

The new UR9 and UR8 RGB Mini-LED Series carry forward Hisense’s RGB breakthrough by making the technology available to more homes, more screen sizes and more price points. As the second generation of the RGB architecture first introduced in 2025, this expanded lineup brings the benefits of richer primaries, cleaner tonal separation and more consistent colour accuracy to more consumers, now spanning screens from 55 inches up to 100 inches.

Where last year’s debut RGB model proved what was possible, this new lineup shows what’s scalable. UR9 and UR8 deliver a dramatically expanded colour range with richer saturation and more accurate tonal reproduction than standard premium TVs on the market. They’re engineered for real homes, preserving colour integrity in bright rooms and maintaining stable, natural colour during fast-paced sports, films and gaming.

The refined industrial design of the UR9 and UR8 and Devialet-tuned audio systems complete a viewing experience that feels premium yet approachable, a reflection of Hisense’s belief that advanced display technology should be within reach for more consumers, not locked behind flagship tiers. By expanding RGB across these new models, Hisense is moving faster than the rest of the market, scaling a technology competitors are still working to introduce and reaffirming the brand’s commitment to making high-performance colour widely accessible.

Finally Hisense today hosted its CES 2026 media conference under the theme “Innovating a Brighter Life,” showcasing its latest advances in display technology and smart home products — focused on more natural colour, healthier viewing and human-centric experiences.

Guided by the theme, Hisense highlighted how long-term, human-centric innovation has translated into sustained global growth and market leadership. In just a few years, Hisense has become one of the world’s fastest-growing consumer electronics brands, now operating in more than 160 countries and ranking No.1 globally in the 100-inch-and-above TV segment and in Laser TVs, according to Omdia. In 2025, Hisense ranked among the top 10 brands in the Kantar BrandZTM Top 50 Chinese Global Brand Builders for the ninth consecutive year, and was named No.1 in the smart home appliance category, according to the Ipsos China Brand Global Trust Index.

This innovation-driven momentum was further recognized at CES 2025, where Hisense received more than 50 international awards across its display and home appliance portfolio, underscoring its leadership in large-screen displays and smart home innovation.

Building on this global momentum, brand trust and market leadership, Hisense also introduced the Hisense Elite Collection for FIFA World Cup 2026TM, marking its third consecutive FIFA World CupTM sponsorship. More than a product lineup, the collection reflects Hisense’s growing global presence and its role in bringing fans together through shared moments — on the screen and throughout the home — around the world’s most celebrated sporting event.

Headlining the announcement was the debut of RGB Mini-LED evo, marking a real system-level evolution in RGB Mini-LED development. As the Origin of RGB Mini-LED, Hisense continues to advance this display route through a system-level evolution—redefining how light sources, control systems and algorithms work together. Rather than pursuing parameter-driven performance alone, the RGB Mini-LED evo introduces an industry-first Sky Blue-Cyan fourth LED into the backlight. With colour performance reaching up to 110% of BT.2020, and colour control achieving 134 bits, RGB Mini-LED evo enables more authentic colour expression, enhanced viewing comfort and balanced energy efficiency. This real evolution forms the technological foundation of the 116UXS RGB Mini-LED TV, the first flagship product powered by RGB Mini-LED evo.

Beyond hardware, Hisense also highlighted the evolution of its smart display ecosystem. Beginning January 1, 2026, VIDAA will transition to V, with VIDAA OS becoming HomeOS, reflecting an expanded platform approach that integrates content, AI-driven services and connected devices across the home.

Through “Innovating a Brighter Life,” Hisense continues to showcase how technology can be applied in practical, human-centric ways — enhancing visual experiences, improving daily comfort and supporting more connected home lifestyles.

For more information, please visit hisense-canada.com.

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What Freedom Mobile Needs To Do To Be A Player In The Canadian Telco Space In 2026

Posted in Commentary with tags on January 5, 2026 by itnerd

Freedom Mobile is often referred to as Canada’s Fourth Telco relative to their place in relation to “big three” telcos which are Rogers, Bell, and Telus. Now Freedom has had a positive influence on the market by forcing down the prices of cell phone service in the country and having the best international roaming options available. But in terms of coverage and offerings, Freedom sort of lags behind the “big three”. If Freedom is going to, really continue to have positive momentum in 2026, here’s things that they need to focus on:

  • Securing customer data: Freedom got pwned in 2025. Which is something that I suspected that would happen when I first got onto the Freedom Mobile bandwagon. And getting pwned is a great way to have customers bolt to the competition. Thus at the top of the list has to be Freedom stepping up their game in that area. They need to prove to their current customers and to their future customers that they can secure customer data. And the time to start doing that is now.
  • Superior customer service: Right now Rogers, Bell and Telus have by all reports have taken a serious dive in their customer service via off-shoring their customer service and bringing in AI to replace humans. Which has infuriated customers who can’t get the help that they need from the “big three”. Freedom has an opportunity to take advantage of this by having Canadian based customer service that is customer focused and easy to get to. On top of that Freedom needs to improve their app which is simply a wrapper for their website so that is is a real app that allows customers to add and remove services with ease. While they’re at it, Freedom should also update their website to allow customers to do the same thing. In short, what Freedom needs to do is to make dealing with them as frictionless as possible.
  • Better coverage with less reliance on their partners: Freedom will never be a legitimate competitor to the “big three” until they have a network that they control. So what they should start doing in 2026 is accelerate their rollout of their own towers in more places. That way they are able to control their own destiny from a service quality standpoint. Speaking of service quality, Freedom also needs to fill in the holes in their coverage. In Toronto for example there’s areas where there’s very weak coverage or no coverage. And signal penetration inside buildings lags behind the “big three”. All of this needs to change.
  • Implementing more 5G variants: What does this mean? Well, they have 5G and some 5G+. But for Freedom to be a player, they need to have things such as5G Standalone and 5G RedCap as that will benefit a wide variety of 5G devices and use cases. That’s important because we live in an age where cell service isn’t just about phones, it’s about devices and how those devices are used. And by doing so, that would put Freedom either level to or ahead of the “big three”.

I’d be very interested in hearing from Freedom Mobile customers about anything else you think should be on this list. And I would be very interested if Freedom Mobile has a response to this if they happen to be reading this. Finally for transparency purposes, I am also a Freedom Mobile customer. So you might say that I am invested in the success of Freedom Mobile. Unless I switch carriers, which I have been known to do.

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Targus Unveils New Product Range At CES

Posted in Commentary with tags on January 5, 2026 by itnerd

Targus®, a global leader in mobile computing accessories, today introduced its 2026 product range, engineered to help work simply, securely, and productively in an increasingly mobile, always-connected world. The new collection will be showcased at CES 2026, the world’s most influential technology event, held from January 6th-9th in Las Vegas.

This year’s lineup addresses the realities of modern mobility with a modular travel backpack, enhanced privacy and security solutions, and EcoSmart® USBC/USB4 mobile docks that deliver high-performance connectivity in compact, eco-conscious designs.

Carry. Protect. Connect: Meet the Targus 2026 lineup

CARRY: Voyager EXP Travel Backpack

The 17″ Voyager EXP Travel Backpack is created for mobile professionals and frequent travelers seeking adaptable storage and reliable device protection. Its modular design gives mobile professionals and frequent travelers unmatched flexibility. Using its removable garment straps, this versatile pack easily switches from a travel pack to a traditional backpack while also allowing users to expand from 27L to 30L.  It offers a patented checkpoint friendly design and a dedicated laptop compartment with SafePort® Sling Protection to safeguard devices in transit. The backpack also includes lockable zippers, an RFID-blocking pocket, and a MOLLE system for modular organization. A ventilated back panel, ergonomic shoulder straps, and a trolley strap ensure comfort and seamless movement through airports, commutes, and long haul travel.

Available Now | SRP: $89.99

PROTECT: Cable Locks and Privacy Screens

As mobile work continues to grow, device and data security have become critical requirements. With a laptop stolen every 53 seconds and most data breaches linked to lost or stolen hardware, organizations and mobile professionals require reliable, easy to deploy protection solutions. Targus’ latest security offerings are engineered to help safeguard devices and sensitive information in high-traffic, public environments.

The Ultimate Universal Hybrid Combination Lock is engineered for flexibility and control. Its hybrid design combines a self-resettable 4-digit combination for individual convenience with a serialized master code for IT management, stored securely in the DEFCON cloud portal for easy and secure retrieval. This dual-code system ensures employees can personalize their lock while IT teams maintain centralized access for compliance and recovery. It also delivers durable, tamper-resistant physical security for laptops and compatible devices. The lock’s universal design supports a wide range of hardware, making it suitable for mixed-device deployments across organizations of all sizes.

Available Now | SRP: $49.99 (single); $1,249.75 (25‑pack)

4Vu™ Magnetic Privacy Screens

Targus 4Vu Magnetic Privacy Screens deliver instant protection from visual hacking without the hassle of complex installation. Engineered with a thin, lightweight magnetic design, these screens attach seamlessly to a laptop’s frame. This allows users to safeguard sensitive information in seconds while preserving a crisp, clear viewing experience straight on. Designed to complement a wide range of laptop models, the 4Vu Magnetic Privacy Screens strike the perfect balance of convenience, clarity, and security, so professionals can work confidently anywhere.

Available: Now | SRP: $44.99–$49.99

CONNECT: Next-Gen EcoSmart® Mobile Docks

Targus’ next generation mobile docks are made with up to 75% recycled materials and offer workstation class connectivity in a compact, travel-friendly form factor. Supporting USB-C or USB4, the lineup includes 140W Extended Power Range (EPR) pass through charging*, up to dual 4K or single 8K video output, high speed 10Gbps ports, SD and microSD card readers, and Gigabit Ethernet. The docks are compatible with Windows®, macOS®, ChromeOS™, and Android™, making them a versatile solution for hybrid workers who require reliable performance across multiple devices and platforms.** Models include DOCK403, DOCK427, DOCK402, and DOCK429, offering scalable connectivity for varied work environments.

Available: Q1–Q2 2026 | SRP: $104.99–$139.99

Meet Targus at CES 2026

Targus will showcase its new 2026 lineup at CES Unveiled (Table #435) at The Mandalay Bay Convention Center on the evening of January 4, and in The Venetian Exhibition Suite #35‑106 during CES, January 6-9.

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Hyper Showcases Award-WinningPower and Connectivity Solutions at CES2026

Posted in Commentary with tags on January 5, 2026 by itnerd

Hyper introduced its 2026 product lineup at CES, led by two CES Innovation Awards® 2026 Honorees, the HyperDrive® Next USB4 M.2 PCIe Enclosure and HyperSpace™ Trackpad Pro. 

Alongside these award-winning products, the lineup includes solid-state power banks for safe charging, next-gen GaN charging solutions, and high-performance connectivity products designed for modern devices and workflows. The full product range will be on display at CES 2026, January 6-9 in Las Vegas. 

Hyper’s 2026 Featured Products 

CES Innovation Awards® 2026 Honoree for External Expansion and Workstation-Class Performance, anywhere. 

The HyperDrive Next USB4 M.2 PCIe Enclosure delivers true PCIe Gen 4 x4 performance over USB4 v2 (up to 64Gbps), enabling creators to run ultrafast NVMe SSDs, external AI accelerators, and other high-performance PCIe modules – all without requiring internal device upgrades. It features a tool-free snap-in design, optional 25W hybrid power for high-performance workflows, and a premium chassis made from 100% recycled aluminum. 

  • Available: Now 
  • SRP: $199.99 

HyperJuice® Solid State Power Banks (New for 2026) 

Next generation mobile power built for safety, speed, and travel 

Hyper’s new solid state power banks in 5,000mAh and 10,000mAh capacities are designed to run cooler and charge more safely than traditional lithium-ion batteries. With Qi2/Qi2.2 magnetic fast charging (15W–25W), 20W–30W USBC input, and MagSafe-compatible alignment, these compact power banks deliver reliable, airline-safe charging while on the move.  

  • Available: Q2–Q3 2026 
  • SRP:  
    • 5,000mAh: $59.99 
    • 10,000mAh: $79.99 

HyperDrive® Next USB-C Hubs and Thunderbolt® 5 Dock (New for 2026) 

High-performance connectivity with streamlined single-cable workflows 

The HyperDrive Next lineup delivers streamlined connectivity for modern workspaces, including USB-C hubs with direct 4K60Hz display support and 10Gbps data transfer, plus a Thunderbolt 5 dock with Thunderbolt™ Share for high-bandwidth, multi-display, and high-power single-cable setups. Built with recycled aluminum and plastics, the lineup combines durable design with high-performance connectivity. 

  • Available: Q3 2026 
  • SRP: $69.99–$399.99 (depending on configuration) 

HyperSpace® Trackpad Pro 

CES Innovation Awards 2026 Honoree – the most advanced haptic trackpad for Windows® 

The HyperSpace Trackpad Pro is the first premium haptic trackpad designed specifically for Windows, delivering zero latency input, a 240Hz report rate, and independent pressure sensing for up to 10 fingers. Paired with Hydra® Connect software, users can create app-specific shortcuts, gesture zones, and deep click profiles for unparalleled precision and customization. It finally brings the high-performance trackpad experience Windows creators have been waiting for. 

  • Available: TBD 
  • SRP: $129.99 

See Hyper’s Innovations at CES 2026 

Consumers, media, and industry professionals can experience Hyper’s award winning products firsthand at CES 2026, taking place January 6–9 in Las Vegas. Hyper will showcase its latest innovations alongside parent company Targus® in Exhibition Suite #35-106 at The Venetian. 

Both CES Innovation Awards honorees will be featured in the Innovation Awards Showcase and highlighted during CES Unveiled, the premier media preview event held at the Mandalay Bay Convention Center on the evening of January 4. 

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Hisense Introduces S6 FollowMe

Posted in Commentary with tags on January 2, 2026 by itnerd

Hisense today announces the launch of the Hisense S6 FollowMe display, a new addition to the brand’s growing Lifestyle TV lineup that reimagines how and where screens are used in the home. Designed to move seamlessly from room to room, the S6 combines intuitive mobility, touchscreen interaction and smart connectivity in a sleek, freestanding form.

Built for modern lifestyles that demand flexibility and ease, the S6 FollowMe display transforms the traditional television into a portable, interactive, touch-enabled hub. Whether streaming content, video calling, browsing recipes, showcasing artwork or controlling smart-home features, the S6 adapts effortlessly to daily routines and shared spaces.

The Hisense Lifestyle TV line is rooted in a simple belief: Screens should fit naturally into how people live, not dictate it. With the S6, Hisense extends this philosophy beyond fixed televisions, offering a dynamic display that follows users throughout the home and supports everything from entertainment to productivity to creative expression. Its minimal footprint, refined stand and portable form factor allow it to complement a wide range of interiors while unlocking new ways to interact with content throughout the home.

A Touchscreen Built for Everyday Flexibility

What makes the S6 FollowMe unique is its flexibility, with a display designed to tilt, rotate, lift and roll smoothly from one space to another. The 32-inch 4K UHD touchscreen delivers vivid visuals and responsive interaction, making it easy to enjoy content at eye level whether relaxing on the couch, cooking in the kitchen or working at a desk or table. Its fluid mobility allows the screen to transition effortlessly from floor to table height, thanks to the included adjustable pedestal base and easel stand. FollowMe is always positioned exactly where it is needed.

Designed for Wireless, Everyday Use

The S6 is built to keep up with modern, unplugged living. With a built-in battery providing up to 10 hours of use, users can enjoy uninterrupted entertainment and interaction without being tethered to a power outlet. An anti-glare low-reflection panel enhances visibility in a variety of lighting conditions, while integrated Wi-Fi 6 connectivity ensures smooth streaming, browsing and smart-home control.

Smart Features for Connection and Convenience

Equipped with a built-in camera and far-field voice control, the S6 makes it easy to stay connected hands-free. From video calls with family and friends to voice-activated commands and content discovery, the display is designed to be intuitive and accessible. DTS Virtual:X audio delivers clear dialogue and immersive sound, creating an engaging experience even without external speakers.

Availability

The Hisense S6 FollowMe display will be available in Canada in July 2026.

Experience Hisense’s full lineup of innovations firsthand at CES 2026, January 6th to 9th in the Las Vegas Convention Center (LVCC), Central Hall Booth 17704. For more information about the Hisense S6 FollowMe display and all of Hisense’s 2026 innovations, visit www.hisense-usa.com/ces-2026. 

For more information, please visit hisense-canada.com. 

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Punkt. unveils MC03

Posted in Commentary with tags on January 2, 2026 by itnerd

Punkt. will be present at CES with its latest model, the MC03. This unique device, powered by AphyOS and housed within a German-built precision handset, follows through on Punkt.’s well known commitment to intentional tech use and data ownership.

Like its forerunner, the MC02, the new model is a subscription-based smartphone that offers users the tools and apps that are most important to them in an environment where they control access to their data and usage.

Using the Punkt. MC03, users can put privacy first with two defined repositories for depositing data. The first is named Vault, a protected enclave containing only trusted, Punkt.-approved apps and offering maximum privacy by default with a calm, design-focused user interface. The second, termed Wild Web, provides the freedom to install any app, but with strict, visible safeguards that allow easy privacy controls and can prevent data triangulation and unauthorized data flows.

The MC03 features a new look and feel to its operating system allowing users to stay laser-focused on getting the best experience. AphyOS cuts out tracking and profiling technology, bloatware, hidden apps and unwieldy background services. It eliminates spying and runs hardened code to block attacks, assisted by a bank-grade Secure Element.

With the MC03, Punkt. is building a secure smartphone ecosystem where privacy is not an add-on, but the default. Supported by trusted partners such as Threema and, new for MC03, Proton, these services feature in the device’s Vault space.

Trusted services including Proton Mail, Proton Calendar, Proton Drive, Proton VPN and Proton Pass are available in an environment designed to minimize data exposure and tracking.

Punkt. and Proton are ideal partners, both leading within the Swiss Tech movement (with Swiss Tech you pay to retain your data, with Big Tech you pay with your data), operating independently and built around the principle that users, not platforms, control their own data.

Among other features of the MC03:

The App Hub

Two app stores are available:

  • A curated privacy-friendly store vetted by AphyOS and Punkt.
  • Access to all widely available apps, activated only when chosen by the user.

Premium Hardware

Manufactured at the Gigaset facility in Germany, the device delivers cutting-edge engineering for quality, security, repairability and sustainability, including:

  • 120Hz OLED HDR display
  • Removable 5200mAh battery
  • IP68 water and dust resistance
  • 64MP main camera

Digital Nomad

The MC03 retains its built-in VPN, Digital Nomad, protecting connectivity and privacy wherever users are.

Ledger

Users control app-specific privacy, from full access to full restriction. Ledger also includes a Carbon Reduction feature, giving insights into the energy impact of installed apps and control over background activity.

The Punkt. MC03 is priced at CHF / $ / €699.

If you don’t pay for a product, you are the product. With MC03, you pay to retain your data rather than paying with it.

A 12-month subscription to AphyOS from Apostrophy is included. After that, continuation requires a paid subscription:

Monthly at CHF / $ / €9.99

Subscription bundles are available, including a 3-year subscription at 45% discount and a 5-year subscription at 60% discount.

The MC03 is available to pre-order now, with deliveries in Europe at the end of January and North America from Spring 2026.

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Clicks Debuts Power Keyboard

Posted in Commentary with tags on January 2, 2026 by itnerd

Clicks Technology today announced Clicks Power Keyboard, a compact keyboard designed to bring fast, confident typing to smart devices plagued by slow, awkward, or frustrating input.

As phones, tablets, TVs, and headsets have gotten smarter, the way people interact with technology hasn’t kept pace. Touchscreens, remotes, and virtual keyboards leave users struggling to type, search, and respond when it matters most. Clicks Power Keyboard addresses that gap with a premium typing experience that helps people use their technology with greater purpose and intention.

Clicks Power Keyboard is available to pre-order for $79 USD with availability in the Spring.

Smart Devices Need Smarter Input

Input today often means fighting interfaces that were never designed for speed or precision.

“Whether you’re typing on a phone, entering a password on a smart TV, or trying to work on a tablet, input today is slow, cumbersome, and frustrating,” said Kevin Michaluk, President and co-founder of Clicks. “Power Keyboard brings a consistent, confident typing experience to all your smart devices, in a compact keyboard you can take anywhere in your pocket.”

The success of the Clicks Keyboard case for iPhone, Pixel, and Motorola Razr demonstrated strong demand for tactile input on modern devices, with more than 100,000 units shipped globally despite supporting a handful of popular smartphone models. Clicks Power Keyboard builds on that momentum, extending physical input to a far broader ecosystem of devices, including hundreds of millions of iPhone and Android smartphones, tablets, smart TVs, headsets, and connected screens.

Extending the Capabilities of Smartphones

Clicks Power Keyboard attaches to smartphones using a strong MagSafe or Qi2 magnetic connection and can be used with existing cases.

By moving typing off the touchscreen, Power Keyboard frees up valuable screen space normally consumed by on-screen keyboards. Familiar keyboard shortcuts supported by iOS and Android carry over seamlessly, making it easier to launch apps, navigate interfaces, and respond quickly on the go.

Multiple slider positions allow the compact keyboard to adjust to different phone sizes, from standard models to large “Ultra” and “Pro Max” devices, while landscape rotation enables more comfortable editing of documents, spreadsheets, and emails.

One Keyboard for Tablets, TVs, and AR/VR

Power Keyboard is designed to work wherever text fields appear.

Paired with a tablet, it provides a practical typing solution without the bulk of a full-size keyboard, ideal for working on a plane, at a café, or in-class.

Connected to a smart TV, Power Keyboard replaces cumbersome on-screen keyboards and remotes, making tasks like entering passwords or searching for content fast and frustration-free.

In AR and VR environments, where virtual keyboards often limit productivity, Power Keyboard delivers tactile feedback that enables more confident input, helping immersive devices move beyond passive experiences toward more purposeful use.

A Premium Pocket Keyboard, With Power When You Need It

At its core, Clicks Power Keyboard is designed around input first.

It features ergonomically shaped keys with optimized key pressure, an intuitive QWERTY layout, directional keys, and a dedicated number row, making tasks like entering phone numbers or editing spreadsheets faster and more precise.

Power Keyboard also includes a built-in 2,150 mAh battery that powers the keyboard itself and can wirelessly top up a smartphone via MagSafe or Qi2 charging. This integrated battery ensures Power Keyboard is always ready when needed, while adding practical utility when connected to a smartphone.

Designed for Multi-Device Use

Clicks Power Keyboard can be paired with multiple devices at once and makes it easy to switch between Bluetooth profiles using a simple keyboard shortcut, allowing users to move effortlessly from phone to tablet to TV.

The keyboard can also be customized using the Clicks app, available on iOS and Android. The app enables personalization of settings such as key behavior, backlighting, and typing preferences.

Pricing and Availability

Clicks Power Keyboard pre-orders begin January 2, with availability expected in the spring.

  • Early-bird price: USD $79
  • MSRP: USD $109

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Clicks Introduces Communicator

Posted in Commentary with tags on January 2, 2026 by itnerd

Clicks Technology today announced Clicks Communicator, a new kind of smartphone designed to complement today’s flagship devices by doing what they increasingly don’t: helping people communicate clearly, act quickly, and stay focused in a noisy digital world.

As smartphones have become larger, more powerful, and more content-driven, many people have begun carrying a second phone – for work, travel, privacy, or simply to create healthier boundaries with technology. Clicks Communicator is purpose-built for that growing two-phone lifestyle, prioritizing communication over consumption and action over distraction.

Rather than competing with flagship smartphones like iPhone, Samsung Galaxy, or Pixel, Communicator is designed to work alongside them, excelling at messaging, triage, and responsiveness while leaving content capture and entertainment to primary devices.

Clicks Communicator will be available in three finishes: Smoke, Clover and Onyx, and offer a variety of interchangeable back covers for personalization. Reservations begin Friday, January 2nd for USD $199, with availability beginning later this year.

Built for Doing, Not Doomscrolling

Modern smartphones are optimized for big screens, cameras, and infinite feeds. Clicks Communicator takes a different approach, focusing on three core principles: context, input, and control.

The result is a compact, tactile phone that helps users quickly understand what matters, respond efficiently, and take action in the moment, without waiting to get back to a desk or being pulled into distractions along the way.

Whether used as a second phone alongside a flagship device or as a primary phone for people who prioritize communication, Clicks Communicator is built for doing, not doomscrolling.

Context That Separates Signal From Noise

At the heart of Communicator is a new Signal light, designed to surface meaningful messages without demanding constant screen attention. The Signal can be customized with different colors and light patterns for specific people, groups, or apps, making it easy to distinguish priority communications at a glance.

Integrated into the phone’s side-mounted Prompt Key, the Signal remains visible whether Communicator is face up or face down, reinforcing its role as a glanceable, low-distraction companion.

Clicks has partnered with Niagara Launcher, an Android launcher with over 12 million downloads, to co-develop a streamlined software experience focused on triage and action. Messages from apps like Gmail, Telegram, WhatsApp, and Slack are curated directly on the home screen, allowing users to review and respond quickly without navigating multiple apps.

Input Designed for Modern Communication

Clicks Communicator builds on the award-winning Clicks Keyboard case, featuring a real keyboard with larger, ergonomically contoured keys for fast, confident typing.

The keyboard is also touch-sensitive, enabling smooth scrolling through messages, lists, and web pages without reaching for the touchscreen.

For voice-first communications, the dedicated Prompt Key starts speech input. Press and hold to dictate a message, release to send. Outside of text fields, the same key begins a voice recording.

Looking ahead, the Prompt Key is designed as a platform for future collaborations with AI-powered applications (including note takers, voice recorders, and intelligent agents) enabling new ways to capture, process, and act on information.

Compact, Purposeful Design

Measuring just 131.5 mm tall and weighing 170 grams, Clicks Communicator is designed to fit comfortably in a pocket while feeling balanced in hand.

Design details like an elevated display and contoured chin improve ergonomics while protecting the keyboard, while a sloped back cover with chamfered edges gives Communicator a distinctive profile. Interchangeable back covers allow users to personalize Communicator and complement their primary phone.

Control and Choice, Reintroduced

In contrast to increasingly minimal smartphones, Clicks Communicator leans into choice and physical control.

Features include:

  • A 3.5mm headphone jack
  • A tactile kill switch configurable for airplane mode, Signal light behavior, keyboard touch input, and more
  • Expandable microSD storage up to 2TB
  • Physical SIM tray and eSIM

Designed with user control in mind, Clicks Communicator also supports applications built on the Android Strongbox API, enabling secure storage and hardware-backed encryption.

A Fully Equipped Companion Phone

While purpose-built for communication, Clicks Communicator is fully equipped as a modern mobile phone, featuring:

  • Android 16 with 5 years of security updates
  • Global 5G, 4G LTE, and 3G/2G support, unlocked
  • 4,000 mAh silicon-carbon battery
  • 256GB onboard storage plus expandable microSD
  • 50MP main camera with OIS and 24MP front camera
  • NFC with Google Pay, Bluetooth 5.4, Wi-Fi 6
  • USB-C and wireless charging

Pricing and Availability

Clicks Communicator will be available in Smoke, Clover, and Onyx at a special launch price of USD $499. Purchase your reservation before February 27 to lock in early bird pricing and priority access:

Clicks Communicator is expected to begin shipping later this year.

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