Technology

Nothing, the consumer technology company known for its distinctive design and focus on user experience, is gearing up to launch its Phone 4a series on March 5th at 11:30 Swedish time. The announcement, made via X (formerly Twitter), directly counters Apple’s scheduled event on March 4th with a playful visual takeover of Apple’s event invite as reported by Android Central.

This launch comes as Nothing CEO Carl Pei has signaled a shift in strategy, prioritizing iterative improvements over chasing the rapid release cycles often seen in the flagship smartphone market. Pei previously stated that the company wouldn’t release a novel flagship device in 2026, believing that new models should offer a “clear improvement” rather than simply adhering to industry trends according to GSMarena.

The Phone 4a series is positioned as a mid-range offering, but Nothing promises a significant leap forward compared to the Phone 3a models. The company anticipates improvements in key areas such as display quality, camera capabilities, and overall performance. Specific details regarding specifications and pricing will be revealed during the launch event on March 5th as detailed by Sportskeeda.

While the exact specifications remain under wraps, leaks suggest the Phone 4a series could feature the Snapdragon 7s Gen 4 chipset, a step up from the Snapdragon 7s Gen 3 found in the Phone 3a series. A Geekbench listing also indicated the potential for a 12GB RAM configuration, though What we have is likely reserved for higher-end models within the 4a series Sportskeeda reports. Pei has emphasized a commitment to delivering a near-flagship experience, including a premium build quality and bold design, potentially incorporating a metallic frame – a departure from the plastic body of its predecessor.

The upcoming series is expected to include two devices: the Nothing Phone 4a and the Phone 4a Pro. Pei has indicated that the 4a series will deliver a close-to-flagship experience, focusing on build quality and design as discussed in a YouTube video featuring Carl Pei.

Nothing’s strategic move to launch the Phone 4a series so closely after Apple’s event highlights the company’s growing confidence and willingness to challenge established industry players. The March 5th event will provide a clearer picture of how Nothing intends to carve out its niche in the competitive smartphone market.

The launch of the Phone 4a series represents a key moment for Nothing as it continues to build its brand and expand its product portfolio. The company’s focus on delivering a premium experience at a more accessible price point could resonate with consumers seeking alternatives to the traditional flagship offerings.

What comes next for Nothing will depend on the reception of the Phone 4a series and its ability to deliver on its promises of improved performance and design. The industry will be watching closely to see if Nothing can maintain its momentum and establish itself as a significant force in the smartphone landscape.

Share your thoughts on the upcoming Nothing Phone 4a series in the comments below!

Shark Beauty is entering the air straightener market with the SilkiPro Straight, a modern device designed to dry, straighten, and style hair all in one step. I was among the first journalists to experience the technology firsthand, and the initial impression is one of lightweight design and a promise of reduced heat damage. The SilkiPro Straight aims to address common frustrations with traditional straightening methods, particularly for those with curly, coily, and textured hair, according to Julie Bailey Blanche, VP of Marketing, Haircare + Skincare at Shark.

The new device, launching on March 4th, distinguishes itself with its “wet-to-dry” capability, powered by HeatSense ceramic plates and RapidDry technology. In other words users can move from damp hair to a styled finish without needing to fully dry their hair beforehand – a process that often involves significant heat exposure. The SilkiPro Straight is positioned as a competitor to devices like the Dyson Airstrait, but Shark emphasizes a different design approach, incorporating interchangeable combs to guide hair from root to tip.

During a preview event, celebrity stylist Jay Birmingham demonstrated the SilkiPro Straight on models with varying hair types, showcasing both straightening and wave-creation capabilities. The device’s integrated combs are a key feature, designed to increase tension and provide more control during the styling process. Shark recommends rough-drying hair to around 70-80% before utilizing the wet-to-dry straightening mode for optimal results.

The SilkiPro Straight’s HeatSense technology continuously monitors and adjusts temperature, measuring it 1,000 times per second to minimize heat damage. This feature is a core selling point, addressing concerns about the long-term health of hair often associated with frequent straightening. SharkNinja announced the launch in a press release, highlighting the device’s ability to deliver “pro-level results” with a focus on hair health.

Key Features and Design

The SilkiPro Straight isn’t simply a new iteration of existing Shark styling tools; it’s a standalone device evolved from attachments found in the Shark Glam Multi-Styler. The tool is available in two colorways – Plum Satin and Rose Petal – reflecting a trend towards more aesthetically pleasing beauty tech. The lightweight design, achieved through optimized weight distribution, was immediately noticeable during the hands-on session.

How it Works: The Silki Smooth Comb Collection

A central component of the SilkiPro Straight is the Silki Smooth Comb Collection, comprising three interchangeable combs. These combs are designed to work in tandem with the airflow and heat to smooth and straighten hair from root to tip. The combs aim to solve a common problem with traditional straighteners – difficulty reaching the roots, resulting in uneven straightening.

Pricing and Availability

The Shark SilkiPro Straight will be available for purchase starting March 4th, priced at £249.99. It will be sold directly through sharkninja.com and on Amazon. According to WWD, the device also allows for curling, shaping, and waving, offering versatile styling options.

Beyond Straightening: Versatility and Styling Options

While marketed as an air straightener, the SilkiPro Straight isn’t limited to creating sleek, straight styles. Demonstrations showed the device’s ability to create soft waves and curls, expanding its appeal beyond those solely focused on straightening. This versatility positions it as a potential all-in-one styling solution.

The launch of the SilkiPro Straight signals Shark Beauty’s continued investment in innovative hair styling technology. The company is betting that the combination of wet-to-dry functionality, heat protection, and versatile styling options will resonate with consumers seeking a more efficient and healthier approach to hair styling. A full review will be forthcoming, providing a more in-depth assessment of the device’s performance and long-term benefits.

What comes next for Shark Beauty remains to be seen, but the SilkiPro Straight clearly indicates a focus on developing tools that address specific consumer needs and prioritize hair health. We’ll be watching to see how this new device impacts the competitive landscape of the hair styling market.

What are your thoughts on air straightening technology? Share your experiences and questions in the comments below!

Buenos Aires – An Argentine judge, Facundo Ocampo, has been suspended from X (formerly Twitter) following a series of antisemitic posts shared on the platform beginning in January 2026. The suspension highlights growing concerns over the spread of hate speech online and its potential impact from individuals in positions of power. The controversy centers around Ocampo’s statements, which included calls to “eradicate Zionism” and disparaging remarks about the late prosecutor Alberto Nisman.

Ocampo, who presides over the Juzgado Correccional N.º 4 in San Isidro, gained notoriety in mid-2024 for his conviction of three doctors in a case involving the negligent death of Alejandro Cohn, brother of filmmaker Mariano Cohn, an incident that occurred in 2015 at the Hospital Melchor Posse in San Isidro. However, his recent online activity has overshadowed that legal precedent, raising questions about his impartiality and judgment. The case resulted in sentences of up to three years and six months in prison for the convicted doctors, Marcelo Solano, Ana Sánchez, and Carla Setti, while three others were acquitted, according to reporting from Sección País.

The posts, which surfaced amidst wildfires in southern Argentina and related accusations, went beyond criticism of political figures. Ocampo reportedly wrote, “Adorni, don’t feign dementia to give Patagonia to the Jews afterwards,” and “It’s clear the Mapuche are the Jews,” according to reports from Bardeo News. He also expressed support for Hamas, the organization responsible for the October 7th massacre in Israel, stating, “We must remove the mask and support the Jews without disgust. Good for Hamas.” Another post claimed, “While you accuse us of being Nazis, the Jews steal Patagonia from us. Poor homeland with this Jewish government.”

Further exacerbating the situation, Ocampo made disparaging remarks about Alberto Nisman on the anniversary of his death, sharing a story from the DAIA (Argentine Israelite Mutual Association) and writing, “The cowardly Jew killed himself due to the unsustainable nature of the accusation he was going to present.” He also voiced support for Silvina Sterin Pensel, a journalist recently dismissed from C5N, attributing her firing to a “Jewish government” and calling it an act of “Jewish censorship,” as detailed by Visavis.

While many of Ocampo’s posts received limited engagement – fewer than 10 views, according to reports – screenshots circulated widely on social media, prompting widespread condemnation and ultimately leading to the suspension of his X account. The incident has sparked debate about the responsibility of public officials regarding their online conduct and the potential for social media to amplify hateful ideologies.

The timing of these posts also draws attention to the ongoing investigation into the death of Alberto Nisman, who was investigating the 1994 AMIA bombing. The reopening of the case by the Supreme Court in 2024, as reported by Urgente24, has renewed public interest in the circumstances surrounding his death.

It remains to be seen what repercussions Ocampo will face beyond the suspension of his X account. The incident is likely to fuel further scrutiny of his judicial decisions and raise questions about his ability to impartially administer justice. The case underscores the challenges of balancing freedom of speech with the necessitate to combat hate speech and protect vulnerable communities. Further investigation into the matter and potential disciplinary action by judicial authorities are anticipated.

As the debate surrounding online hate speech continues to intensify, this case serves as a stark reminder of the potential consequences of unchecked antisemitism and the importance of holding individuals accountable for their words, particularly those in positions of authority. The incident will likely prompt further discussion about the role of social media platforms in moderating content and protecting against the spread of harmful ideologies.