Labour leader holds exploratory coalition talks with Fianna Fail and Fine GaelWhat if construction materials could be put together, taken apart, and reused as easily as Lego bricks? That’s the vision a team of MIT engineers hopes to realize with a new kind of masonry it’s developing from recycled glass. Using a custom 3D-printing technology provided by the MIT spinoff Evenline, the team has made strong, multilayered glass bricks, each in the shape of a figure eight, that are designed to interlock and stack. The bricks can easily be taken apart for reuse in new structures. “Glass as a structural material kind of breaks people’s brains a little bit,” says Evenline founder Michael Stern ’09, SM ’15, coauthor of a on the work. “We’re showing this is an opportunity to push the limits of what’s been done in architecture.” Stern and Kaitlyn Becker ’09, an assistant professor of mechanical engineering and another coauthor, got the inspiration for the bricks partly from their experience as undergraduates in MIT’s Glass Lab. “I found the material fascinating,” says Stern, who went on to design a 3D printer capable of depositing molten recycled glass. “I started thinking of how glass printing can find its place.” “I get excited about expanding design and manufacturing spaces for challenging materials with interesting characteristics, like glass and its optical properties and recyclability,” says Becker, who began exploring those ideas as a faculty member. “As long as it’s not contaminated, you can recycle glass almost infinitely.” For their new study, Becker, Stern, and coauthors Daniel Massimino, SM ’24, and Charlotte Folinus ’20, SM ’22, of MIT and Ethan Townsend at Evenline used a glass printer that pairs with a furnace to melt crushed glass bottles into a material that can be deposited in layered patterns. They printed prototype bricks using soda-lime glass that is typically used in a glassblowing studio. Two round pegs made of a different material, similar to the studs on a Lego brick, are incorporated into each one so they can interlock. Another material placed between the bricks prevents scratches or cracks but can be removed if a structure is to be dismantled and recycled. The prototypes’ figure-eight shape allows assembly into curved walls, though recycled bricks could also be remelted in the printer and formed into new shapes. The group is looking into whether more of the interlocking feature could be made from printed glass too. The bricks’ mechanical strength was tested in a hydraulic press that squeezed them until they began to fracture. The strongest held up to pressures comparable to what concrete blocks can withstand. The researchers have used the bricks to construct a curved wall and aim to build progressively bigger, self-supporting structures. “We’re thinking of stepping stones to buildings,” Stern says, “and want to start with something like a pavilion—a temporary structure that humans can interact with, and that you could then reconfigure into a second design. And you could imagine that these blocks could go through a lot of lives.”

Biden gives life in prison to 37 of 40 federal death row inmates before Trump can resume executions WASHINGTON (AP) — President Joe Biden is commuting the sentences of 37 of the 40 people on federal death row. He's converting their punishments to life imprisonment just weeks before Donald Trump, an outspoken proponent of expanding capital punishment, takes office. Biden says the commutations are consistent with a pause on executions put in place by his administration in cases other than terrorism and hate-motivated mass murder. Biden says he couldn't let a new administration resume executions. Trump has talked about subjecting drug dealers and human smugglers to the death penalty. A spokesperson for Trump said Biden's decision is “abhorrent" and a “slap in the face” to victims and their families. House Ethics Committee accuses Gaetz of paying for sex, including with 17-year-old girl WASHINGTON (AP) — The House Ethics Committee has accused Matt Gaetz of “regularly” paying for sex, including once with a 17-year-old girl, and purchasing and using illicit drugs as a member of Congress. The 37-page report was released Monday by the bipartisan panel after a nearly four-year investigation that helped sink his nomination for attorney general. The report includes explicit details of sex-filled parties and vacations that Gaetz took part in while representing Florida in the House. Congressional investigators concluded that he violated multiple state laws related to sexual misconduct while in office. Gaetz has denied all wrongdoing and he filed a lawsuit Monday trying to block the report’s release. Luigi Mangione pleads not guilty to murder and weapons charges in UnitedHealthcare CEO's death NEW YORK (AP) — The man accused of fatally shooting the CEO of UnitedHealthcare has pleaded not guilty to murder and terror charges in a state case that will run parallel to his federal prosecution. The Manhattan district attorney formally charged Luigi Mangione last week with multiple counts of murder, including murder as an act of terrorism. Mangione's attorney complained during a brief hearing Monday that statements coming from New York’s mayor would make it tough for him to receive a fair trial. Mangione was shackled and seated in a Manhattan court when he leaned over to a microphone to enter his not guilty plea. Man faces murder charges in the death of a woman who was lit on fire in New York City subway A man is facing murder charges in New York City for allegedly setting a woman on fire inside a subway train and then watching her die after she was engulfed in flames. Police on Monday said the man, identified as 33-year-old Sebastian Zapeta, had been taken into custody as a person of interest in the case hours after the woman died. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement spokesman Jeff Carter said he is a Guatemalan citizen who entered the U.S. illegally after he had been previously removed in 2018. Transit police apprehended the man hours after the fatal fire. Middle East latest: Defense minister acknowledges Israel killed Hamas leader Israel’s defense minister has confirmed that Israel assassinated Hamas’ top leader last summer and is threatening to take similar action against the leadership of the Houthi rebel group in Yemen. The comments by Israel Katz appeared to mark the first time that Israel has acknowledged killing Ismail Haniyeh, who died in an explosion in Iran in July. Israel was widely believed to be behind the blast and leaders have previously hinted at its involvement. In a speech Monday, Katz said the Houthis would meet a similar fate as the other members of an Iranian-led alliance in the region, including Haniyeh. He also noted that Israel has killed other leaders of Hamas and Hezbollah, helped topple Syria’s Bashar Assad and destroyed Iran’s anti-aircraft systems. Trump again calls to buy Greenland after eyeing Canada and the Panama Canal WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. (AP) — First it was Canada, then the Panama Canal. Now, Donald Trump again wants Greenland. The president-elect is renewing calls he made during his first term for the U.S. to buy Greenland, the ice-covered semi-autonomous Danish territory. That's added to the list of allied countries he’s picking fights with, even before taking office on Jan. 20. Greenland insists it's not for sale and Trump's initial calls to purchase it in 2019 came to nothing. But his latest suggestion comes after the president-elect suggested the U.S. could retake control of the Panama Canal and that Canadians wanted their county to become the 51st U.S. state. Nissan and Honda to attempt a merger that would create the world's No. 3 automaker TOKYO (AP) — Japanese automakers Nissan and Honda have announced plans to work toward a merger that would catapult them to a top position in an industry in the midst of tectonic shifts as it transitions away from its reliance on fossil fuels. The two companies said they signed an agreement on integrating their businesses on Monday. Smaller Nissan alliance member Mitsubishi Motors agreed to join the talks. News of a possible merger surfaced earlier this month. Japanese automakers face a strong challenge from their Chinese rivals and Tesla as they make inroads into markets at home and abroad. Magdeburg mourns Christmas market attack victims as fears swirl of deeper German social divisions MAGDEBURG, Germany (AP) — Mourners are laying flowers near the scene of the deadly Christmas market attack as investigators puzzle over the motive of the suspect and his previous encounters with authorities are scrutinized. At the same time there are fears that the rampage could deepen divisions in German society. A church a short walk from the scene of the attack has become a central place of mourning since the suspect drove a car into the busy market on Friday evening and killed five people. Authorities have identified the suspect as a Saudi doctor who arrived in Germany in 2006 and had received permanent residency. They say he doesn't fit the usual profile of perpetrators of extremist attacks. How faith communities can be welcoming of believers with disabilities this holiday season and beyond This holiday season, some religious congregations across the U.S. are holding events designed to be accommodating to and inclusive of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. They range from a “Calm Christmas” in West Virginia to an inclusive Hanukkah in New Jersey. Many disabled people, advocates and families want more houses of worship to know that there are ways to fully incorporate and welcome people with these and other disabilities and their families — and not just during the holidays but year round. Tennessee and Auburn remain 1-2 in AP Top 25 poll featuring 10 SEC teams Tennessee and Auburn remained Nos. 1-2 atop The Associated Press men’s college basketball poll. They were the headliners among the Southeastern Conference's haul of 10 ranked teams. Iowa State, Duke and Alabama rounded out the top five. Kentucky had the week's biggest fall, sliding six spots to No. 10 after a loss to Ohio State. Mississippi State, Arkansas, Illinois and Baylor rejoined the poll after stints in the rankings earlier this season. They replaced Memphis, Dayton, Michigan and Clemson. The Big 12 and Big Ten were tied for second with five teams each in the AP Top 25.

CLEVELAND (AP) — Even after leaving Cleveland, Carlos Santana remained a fan favorite and was warmly welcomed back as a visitor. He's home again. Santana signed a one-year, $12 million contract and returned Monday for his third stint with the Guardians, who have an opening at first base after the AL Central champions Santana can earn an additional $1.2 million in bonuses for plate appearances: $200,000 for 500 and each additional 25 through 650. The 38-year-old Santana spent last season with Minnesota, batting .238 with 23 homers and 71 RBIs in 150 games. He also won his first Gold Glove, becoming the oldest position player to win the honor for the first time. Santana previously was with Cleveland from 2010-17. He returned in 2019, made his first All-Star team and spent two seasons with the club before signing as a free agent with the Kansas City Royals. The switch-hitter is second in club history in walks (881), tied for sixth in homers (216) and is eighth in extra-base hits (503). Over 15 major league seasons, Santana has 324 homers and 1,082 RBIs in 2,080 games. Santana has been remarkably consistent, driving in at least 60 runs and playing a minimum of 130 games in each of his 13 full seasons. He also has played for Philadelphia, Seattle, Pittsburgh and Milwaukee. The well-respected Santana will be Cleveland's primary first baseman in 2025 after the Guardians sent Naylor to the Diamondbacks for right-hander Slade Cecconi and a competitive balance draft pick. The Guardians have other options at first base, including Kyle Manzardo and Jhonkensy Noel. But there's no need to rush those players with Santana around, and it's entirely possible he could be signed beyond 2025. With the Naylor deal, the Guardians have completely overhauled the right side of their infield this winter. Cleveland previously traded Gold Glove second baseman Andrés Giménez to Toronto as part of a three-team swap with Pittsburgh. It feels somewhat risky — and maybe unnecessary — for an established team, but president of baseball operations Chris Antonetti was quick to point out that both Naylor and Giménez arrived in Cleveland via trades. “Very difficult trades,” he said. "In terms of how we have to operate moving forward, there are times when we have to make difficult decisions involving very good players, but our goal continues to be how do we find a way to field competitive teams both in the near term and long term and that sometimes necessitates difficult decisions. “To be clear, our goal in 2025 is to try to find a way to win the American League Central.” AP MLB:

How the FDA allows companies to add secret ingredients to our foodHow the FDA allows companies to add secret ingredients to our food

When you're undergoing fertility treatments, it can affect every part of your life and well-being — and it's something more women than ever are doing. According to one 2023 survey from the Pew Research Center , 42 percent of adults have undergone fertility treatments or know someone who has. (And that doesn't account for egg freezing .) But while the physical symptoms are commonly known and often talked about, the effects on mental and emotional health remain much more taboo. Yet the psychological impacts are equally, if not more, powerful than their physiological counterparts. We spoke with top experts (and real women who have been through the fertility treatment ringer) to learn how and why IUI, IVF, and egg freezing affect your mental health — and how to best handle this uniquely stressful time. Emily Heilman , MA, LCSW, BCD, PMH-C is a psychotherapist specializing in women's reproductive mental health and the founder of Flourish Counseling . Joshua Klein , MD, FACOG, is a board-certified subspecialist in reproductive endocrinology and infertility, and the chief clinical officer and cofounder of Extend Fertility . Why Do Fertility Treatments Affect Mental Health? No matter whether it's IUI, IVF , or egg freezing , it's important to underscore that emotional impacts are normal. There's a very clear physical cause and effect at play. In the case of egg freezing and IVF, "We're overriding normal biology that allows women to only grow one egg at a time. To do that, we have to bring in hormones from outside the body," explains Joshua Klein, MD. "There's estrogen and progesterone circulating at levels that are five, 10, even 20 times higher than what occurs during a normal menstrual cycle. There's no doubt that those hormones have a connection to the brain." More specifically, it's not just the intense amount of hormones that matter, but the rate at which they spike and drop. The abrupt change of going from low to high over the course of about a week, then having a retrieval and crashing back down to normal a few days later, is what really throws people, says Dr. Klein. The first part — the prep for egg retrieval (be it with egg freezing or IVF) — features an abrupt spike in estrogen. "This is associated with hypersensitivity, when every emotion is heightened. There's also a general sense of heaviness, both physically and mentally," Dr. Klein explains. Post-retrieval, there's a massive drop in progesterone, which can lead to a slew of negative emotions including feeling deeply moody, depressed , and anxious, he says. Worth noting: during IUI, there's a similar pattern at play, but it's not quite as intense. This is because the amount of medication used is much lower, since the goal isn't to get the body to hyperovulate, per Dr. Klein. In the case of IVF, if there's an immediate embryo transfer that does result in a pregnancy, then the progesterone won't plummet. But if the transfer fails, then you're dealing with the physical effects, coupled with the psychological impact of not being pregnant, Dr. Klein says. The Emotional Impact Can't Be Overstated Moving through these treatments can be traumatic for many people, says Emily Heilman, MA, LCSW. "There's the psychological impact, the financial , the physical, the relational, it really is so pervasive in every area of life." As Kate*, who underwent egg freezing last year, puts it: "It's just . . . a lot. They tell you not to be stressed out because that will affect your body, but it's such a stressful experience. I get so annoyed when people say 'just freeze your eggs.' They're not considering the mental and the physical and the financial aspects." Heilman is quick to note that people's background also plays an important role. It's not uncommon for the person undergoing fertility treatment to have a pre-existing mental health and/or trauma history, she says. Now, they're in the midst of one of the most important and influential life experiences one can have — building a family. Whether going this route was anticipated or not, the "before" has to be factored in when you talk about moving through these treatments. The past often exacerbates what's happening in the present, Heilman explains. As for how all of this manifests? You name the emotion, it's probably on the list. "Some of the symptoms that most often show up are anxiety, depression, irritability, mood swings. Coupled with that is a loss of control, social isolation, financial strain, and strain on relationships with partners, family, and friends," Heilman says. So yeah, it's a lot. Egg Freezing Comes With Some Unique Nuances While we're adding egg freezing into this broader category of fertility treatment, both experts were quick to note that there are some key differentiating factors about the process and its impact. "When someone is electively freezing their eggs for fertility preservation, they're making the choice to be there. And that can feel empowering, like they're taking control and advocating for themselves and their future," Heilman says. "There's also this future orientation, in that they're not actively trying to get pregnant, but rather doing it like an insurance policy." Kate echoes these sentiments: "It was a very empowering feeling, especially because I paid for this all on my own. I spent around $20,000 all in. Taking control in this way did give me a sense of empowerment." On the flip side, women who are freezing their eggs are sometimes single, and as such don't have the built-in support system of a partner, notes Dr. Klein. (Of course, there are partnered women going through egg freezing and single women undergoing IUI and IVF.) On top of that, women freezing their eggs are often younger and/or may not have had the same kind of medical experiences as women dealing with infertility, says Dr. Klein. He points out that for women undergoing IVF, there's sometimes a history of other conditions and/or surgeries or treatments. It can be a jolt to the system for these younger, and generally healthy, egg-freezing patients to suddenly be poked and prodded, Dr. Klein says. How to Cope with Mental Health Challenges During Fertility Treatments So, how do you handle this wild emotional roller coaster? Heilman says she thinks about coping mechanisms through a three-part lens, noting that there should be biological, psychological, and social strategies at play. Here's what she and Dr. Klein suggest — plus helpful advice from women who have been through it. This is admittedly a bit tricky, because there are exercise restrictions and you likely will have to modify your normal routine, but there are ways you can still be physically active, says Dr. Klein. Caroline*, who has undergone four rounds of IVF medication and eight embryo transfers, underscores how important this is. "When I couldn't go for a run or ride the Peloton, I'd just walk. I'd take my dog for these monster walks around our neighborhood and get fresh air and get my body moving. That was tremendously helpful for my mental health," she says, adding that it helped her feel calmer and less anxious. There's so much that's out of your control when undergoing fertility treatments (like, everything). It's why Heilman says it's imperative to focus on and really think about what is in your control and will help set you up to feel as good as possible. Tune into your body; if you know that having coffee after noon keeps you up at night, then don't drink it, she says. Eat food that feels nourishing for you, and drink water. Prioritize sleep as much as possible; it's a tremendous protective factor when it comes to mental health , Heilman says. Kate focused on doing all of the above during her egg freezing journey. "I really listened to my body. If it was 2:00 on a Tuesday and I felt tired, I'd lay down and take a nap," she says. This may just be the biggest one on the list. Be it a partner, a friend, or a family member, everyone needs at least one person to lean on during this time. Kate says her boyfriend was invaluable (particularly when it came to alleviating her stress around giving herself injections). She also had a friend who checked in daily. Caroline echoes a similar feeling. "I started to get to a point where I was really struggling with the lack of control [when things weren't working]," she says. "My husband helped me realize that even though we couldn't control the situation, there were still other options, and we had so much to be grateful for. He'd bring me back down when I got really worked up." Heilman adds that fertility support groups are also hugely beneficial. "It's a shared identification and alleviates the social isolation. You feel less alone because everyone is speaking the same language." This one is pretty personal. For some, holding the experience close to the chest feels more comfortable; Kate chose not to share what she was going through, with the exception of a few close friends. Caroline, on the other hand, found that it helped to talk about her experience in real time. "There's a lot of weird behavior when you're going through these treatments," she says. "I'd have to give myself shots at night. So if someone wanted to make dinner plans, I'd say 'sure, but I have to be home by 8:00 to give myself an injection,' or ask if we could do dinner at my house. It alleviates the secrecy, which can be another added level of stress," she says. "And I've also found that people show up in more meaningful ways when they know what's up. The more you let people in, the more they can be supportive." Social media can be a great place for connection and community — or for anxiety-inducing comparison . For many people, it's both. "I found a lot of comfort in hearing about other women's journeys and stories. But I also got jealous or annoyed when people would say they had no symptoms and got 20 eggs," Kate says. Her tip: stay away from all of the "what to do and what not to do" content because that only added to the stress and overwhelmed her. Heilman also encourages setting boundaries around how much content you consume. Pausing on fertility treatments when experiencing difficulties can be refreshing. Caroline (who has had two successful pregnancies over the course of all her IVF treatments) says that she was ready to put things on hold right before she got pregnant both times. "Taking a break is not giving up. It can be a good thing. When we felt like we were running into a wall, we really got comfortable with the idea of pause. If that transfer didn't work, we were going to take a beat and just enjoy life for six months. We even planned a whole trip in our heads. That let me breathe a little easier," she says. Kate, whose egg freezing journey didn't go the way she had hoped (she was never able to do a retrieval), says she's been coping with the outcome by simply taking a step back from it all. "As soon as I got the call that I wasn't going to be able to do the retrieval, my boyfriend and I went away for the weekend," she says. "I had that glass of wine I'd been wanting to have. I really let myself feel my feelings. But as far as going back to the doctor and making another game plan, I just stepped away. It was too overwhelming." When in doubt, call on the pros. Talk therapy is hugely beneficial during any life experience, but particularly one like this, Heilman says. Medication (for example, anxiety meds) can also be useful. And while you can go to your GP for a prescription, this might be the time to seek out a provider who really specializes in this arena; for example, in Heilman's practice, the psychiatrists who can prescribe medication are also midwives. Dr. Klein says he urges patients to enlist the help of a mental health provider who understands the context of what they're going through. Finally, Heilman notes that somatic training is a very effective treatment approach in these types of scenarios, particularly if you feel like your stress and anxiety are manifesting physiologically. "There are lots of different options for therapies, and they're all good. It's about finding what feels right for you," she says. Melanie Rud is a freelance beauty and lifestyle writer and editor based in Chicago. Along with her work for PS, she also writes for Byrdie, InStyle, Real Simple, Women's Health, and more.

The Infinix Hot 50 Pro Plus emerges as an intriguing contender in the mid-range smartphone segment, particularly with its ambitious camera system. While Infinix has positioned this device as a photography-focused smartphone, it also impresses with a vibrant display, robust processing power, and substantial battery life. However, our focus today is on its camera capabilities, which promise to deliver premium features at a competitive price point. The brings a formidable camera array that punches well above its price class. At its core sits an impressive 108MP primary sensor with an f/1.8 aperture – a setup typically found in flagship devices. What makes this sensor special is its intelligent 9-in-1 pixel binning technology, combining nine pixels into one to create stunning 12MP shots with enhanced light capture and reduced noise. I found this particularly effective in challenging lighting conditions, where the sensor proved its worth by capturing remarkable detail. The supporting cast is equally noteworthy. The 8MP ultra-wide lens offers a sweeping 120-degree field of view, perfect for landscape photography or group shots. During testing, I was impressed by how it maintained color consistency with the main sensor – a challenge many mid-range phones struggle with. The inclusion of a 2MP macro lens and 2MP depth sensor might seem modest on paper, but they prove their utility in specific scenarios, especially for close-up shots and portrait photography. Perhaps the most surprising addition is the optical image stabilization (OIS) on the main sensor – a feature often reserved for premium smartphones. This makes a noticeable difference in low-light photography and video recording, reducing blur and improving overall image sharpness. The front-facing 32MP selfie camera isn’t just about high resolution; its AI beauty enhancements offer subtle improvements while maintaining natural-looking results. The thoughtful design of the Hot 50 Pro Plus’s camera module showcases Infinix’s attention to practical aesthetics. The rectangular camera housing, while protruding slightly, integrates smoothly into the phone’s overall design. During my testing, I found that the protrusion, though noticeable on flat surfaces, doesn’t cause the phone to rock significantly when used on a desk – a common annoyance with many modern smartphones. The camera module’s placement in the upper left corner isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s a calculated decision that pays off in real-world use. I noticed significantly fewer accidental finger appearances in shots compared to centrally-placed camera systems. The matte finish around the lenses also proves resistant to fingerprints, maintaining a clean look even with heavy use. The camera interface deserves special mention. Launching the camera app is near-instantaneous, taking just 0.8 seconds from screen-off to ready-to-shoot. The swipe-based interface feels intuitive, with commonly used modes like Night, Portrait, and Pro accessible with a simple horizontal swipe. I particularly appreciated the well-thought-out placement of controls, allowing for easy one-handed operation – a feature that proved invaluable when trying to capture quick, spontaneous moments. Daylight photography showcases the Hot 50 Pro Plus’s strengths. The 108MP main sensor captures impressive detail, though default 12MP shots offer better dynamic range. Colors appear natural with a slight tendency toward saturation, particularly in scenes with vibrant elements. The AI scene optimization effectively enhances photos without appearing artificial. In low-light conditions, the phone demonstrates commendable performance thanks to its Super Night Mode. While some noise is present in extremely dark scenes, the intelligent noise reduction maintains good detail preservation. The Night mode takes about 2-3 seconds to process images but delivers noticeably better results than standard mode. Portrait mode benefits from the dedicated depth sensor, producing natural-looking background blur with good edge detection. Skin tones remain true to life, though beauty mode defaults can be aggressive and might need adjustment for more natural results. Ultra-wide shots maintain good color consistency with the main sensor, though edge distortion is noticeable. The macro lens, while limited in resolution, proves useful in good lighting conditions for close-up shots within 4cm range. The Hot 50 Pro Plus supports 4K recording at 30fps and 1080p at up to 60fps. The OIS helps maintain stability in 4K recordings, though electronic stabilization at 1080p proves more effective. Audio capture is clear thanks to noise-canceling microphones, though wind noise can be an issue outdoors. Focus transitions appear smooth in most situations, though low-light autofocus can occasionally hunt. The camera app is easy to navigate, offering a balance between automatic and manual controls for both beginners and advanced users. AI modes enhance photos with real-time adjustments to exposure, color, and sharpness, while beauty settings allow for customizable portrait touch-ups. The app includes modes like Super Moon, Light Painting, and Document Scan, providing creative options for unique photography. The camera supports third-party apps, but some advanced features, like AI modes, are exclusive to the stock camera app. The app offers extensive customization, allowing users to adjust settings like exposure, ISO, and white balance for more control over their shots. The standout feature of the Infinix Hot 50 Pro Plus is its 108MP primary camera. With such a high-resolution sensor, this smartphone can capture incredible levels of detail, which is especially noticeable in well-lit environments or landscapes. It allows for impressive cropping without a significant loss of image quality, making it great for users who love to take photos with finer details.The sharpness and clarity of images are typically remarkable, especially in daylight conditions. The night mode on the Infinix Hot 50 Pro Plus is optimized for low-light environments, delivering well-exposed and detailed images even when lighting is not ideal. The AI-driven processing helps brighten dark areas without sacrificing too much detail. It works well in most night settings, delivering a well-balanced photo with good color reproduction and noise control. :With OIS on the primary camera, the phone ensures that photos remain stable, even if the user has shaky hands or is moving around. This is particularly helpful for video recording, allowing for smoother footage without the blur that can come from hand movements. It also helps in low-light photography, reducing the chances of camera shake affecting the image quality. :The phone offers several creative modes, allowing users to play around with their photography. This includes options like Portrait mode, Super Macro, AI-enhanced modes, and other specialized filters. These features provide more artistic control, especially for users who like experimenting with photography. The AI can also enhance photos based on context, like adjusting saturation or lighting for a more professional look. :The ultra-wide lens on the Hot 50 Pro Plus provides a broader field of view, making it great for capturing wide scenes such as landscapes, architecture, or large groups of people. When used in good lighting conditions, this lens delivers clear and detailed images, maintaining color integrity and sharpness across the frame. : While the phone features a macro lens for close-up shots, its performance can be inconsistent. In some cases, the macro lens might struggle to capture fine details, and the images may come out blurry or lacking sharpness, especially when focusing on very small objects. The quality of the macro shots often depends on the lighting conditions and the subject’s texture. This may be a disappointment for users who enjoy taking detailed close-ups regularly. : The AI in the phone’s camera system can sometimes over-process images, resulting in unnatural-looking photos. For instance, it might artificially boost saturation, smoothen skin too much in portrait shots, or over-sharpen edges, leading to a lack of naturalness. While AI enhancements can be useful for some users, others may find these results too “artificial,” especially when it alters colors and textures in ways that don’t reflect real life. : One of the more common issues with smartphones in this range is autofocus performance in low light, and the Infinix Hot 50 Pro Plus is no exception. In dimly lit environments, the camera can sometimes struggle to focus quickly, leading to a delay or misfocused shots. This can be especially noticeable when trying to capture moving objects in low light, where the camera might take longer to lock onto the subject, leading to missed shots or blurry photos. : While the phone offers a wide array of camera features, users have reported occasional lag or delays when switching between different modes or processing complex images. This may not be a dealbreaker for casual users, but those who frequently take photos may find the lag frustrating, particularly when shooting in fast-paced environments. The Infinix Hot 50 Pro Plus boasts a surprisingly capable camera system for a . The 108MP main sensor delivers impressive detail and the effective Night Mode ensures good performance in low-light conditions. The inclusion of OIS is a significant advantage, enhancing image stabilization and video quality. The ultra-wide lens offers a useful perspective, and the overall camera app is well-designed and user-friendly. However, the camera system isn’t without its shortcomings. Inconsistent macro performance, occasional AI over-processing, and autofocus challenges in low light can be observed. The Infinix Hot 50 Pro Plus offers a compelling camera experience for its price point. While it may not surpass dedicated camera phones, it certainly punches above its weight in the mid-range segment. If you prioritize a versatile camera system with features like OIS and a high-resolution main sensor, the Hot 50 Pro Plus should be on your shortlist. PTA Taxes Portal Find PTA Taxes on All Phones on a Single Page using the PhoneWorld PTA Taxes PortalGoing home? Syrians in Europe are not so sure

Labour leader holds exploratory coalition talks with Fianna Fail and Fine GaelThe Infinix Hot 50 Pro Plus emerges as an intriguing contender in the mid-range smartphone segment, particularly with its ambitious camera system. While Infinix has positioned this device as a photography-focused smartphone, it also impresses with a vibrant display, robust processing power, and substantial battery life. However, our focus today is on its camera capabilities, which promise to deliver premium features at a competitive price point. The brings a formidable camera array that punches well above its price class. At its core sits an impressive 108MP primary sensor with an f/1.8 aperture – a setup typically found in flagship devices. What makes this sensor special is its intelligent 9-in-1 pixel binning technology, combining nine pixels into one to create stunning 12MP shots with enhanced light capture and reduced noise. I found this particularly effective in challenging lighting conditions, where the sensor proved its worth by capturing remarkable detail. The supporting cast is equally noteworthy. The 8MP ultra-wide lens offers a sweeping 120-degree field of view, perfect for landscape photography or group shots. During testing, I was impressed by how it maintained color consistency with the main sensor – a challenge many mid-range phones struggle with. The inclusion of a 2MP macro lens and 2MP depth sensor might seem modest on paper, but they prove their utility in specific scenarios, especially for close-up shots and portrait photography. Perhaps the most surprising addition is the optical image stabilization (OIS) on the main sensor – a feature often reserved for premium smartphones. This makes a noticeable difference in low-light photography and video recording, reducing blur and improving overall image sharpness. The front-facing 32MP selfie camera isn’t just about high resolution; its AI beauty enhancements offer subtle improvements while maintaining natural-looking results. The thoughtful design of the Hot 50 Pro Plus’s camera module showcases Infinix’s attention to practical aesthetics. The rectangular camera housing, while protruding slightly, integrates smoothly into the phone’s overall design. During my testing, I found that the protrusion, though noticeable on flat surfaces, doesn’t cause the phone to rock significantly when used on a desk – a common annoyance with many modern smartphones. The camera module’s placement in the upper left corner isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s a calculated decision that pays off in real-world use. I noticed significantly fewer accidental finger appearances in shots compared to centrally-placed camera systems. The matte finish around the lenses also proves resistant to fingerprints, maintaining a clean look even with heavy use. The camera interface deserves special mention. Launching the camera app is near-instantaneous, taking just 0.8 seconds from screen-off to ready-to-shoot. The swipe-based interface feels intuitive, with commonly used modes like Night, Portrait, and Pro accessible with a simple horizontal swipe. I particularly appreciated the well-thought-out placement of controls, allowing for easy one-handed operation – a feature that proved invaluable when trying to capture quick, spontaneous moments. Daylight photography showcases the Hot 50 Pro Plus’s strengths. The 108MP main sensor captures impressive detail, though default 12MP shots offer better dynamic range. Colors appear natural with a slight tendency toward saturation, particularly in scenes with vibrant elements. The AI scene optimization effectively enhances photos without appearing artificial. In low-light conditions, the phone demonstrates commendable performance thanks to its Super Night Mode. While some noise is present in extremely dark scenes, the intelligent noise reduction maintains good detail preservation. The Night mode takes about 2-3 seconds to process images but delivers noticeably better results than standard mode. Portrait mode benefits from the dedicated depth sensor, producing natural-looking background blur with good edge detection. Skin tones remain true to life, though beauty mode defaults can be aggressive and might need adjustment for more natural results. Ultra-wide shots maintain good color consistency with the main sensor, though edge distortion is noticeable. The macro lens, while limited in resolution, proves useful in good lighting conditions for close-up shots within 4cm range. The Hot 50 Pro Plus supports 4K recording at 30fps and 1080p at up to 60fps. The OIS helps maintain stability in 4K recordings, though electronic stabilization at 1080p proves more effective. Audio capture is clear thanks to noise-canceling microphones, though wind noise can be an issue outdoors. Focus transitions appear smooth in most situations, though low-light autofocus can occasionally hunt. The camera app is easy to navigate, offering a balance between automatic and manual controls for both beginners and advanced users. AI modes enhance photos with real-time adjustments to exposure, color, and sharpness, while beauty settings allow for customizable portrait touch-ups. The app includes modes like Super Moon, Light Painting, and Document Scan, providing creative options for unique photography. The camera supports third-party apps, but some advanced features, like AI modes, are exclusive to the stock camera app. The app offers extensive customization, allowing users to adjust settings like exposure, ISO, and white balance for more control over their shots. The standout feature of the Infinix Hot 50 Pro Plus is its 108MP primary camera. With such a high-resolution sensor, this smartphone can capture incredible levels of detail, which is especially noticeable in well-lit environments or landscapes. It allows for impressive cropping without a significant loss of image quality, making it great for users who love to take photos with finer details.The sharpness and clarity of images are typically remarkable, especially in daylight conditions. The night mode on the Infinix Hot 50 Pro Plus is optimized for low-light environments, delivering well-exposed and detailed images even when lighting is not ideal. The AI-driven processing helps brighten dark areas without sacrificing too much detail. It works well in most night settings, delivering a well-balanced photo with good color reproduction and noise control. :With OIS on the primary camera, the phone ensures that photos remain stable, even if the user has shaky hands or is moving around. This is particularly helpful for video recording, allowing for smoother footage without the blur that can come from hand movements. It also helps in low-light photography, reducing the chances of camera shake affecting the image quality. :The phone offers several creative modes, allowing users to play around with their photography. This includes options like Portrait mode, Super Macro, AI-enhanced modes, and other specialized filters. These features provide more artistic control, especially for users who like experimenting with photography. The AI can also enhance photos based on context, like adjusting saturation or lighting for a more professional look. :The ultra-wide lens on the Hot 50 Pro Plus provides a broader field of view, making it great for capturing wide scenes such as landscapes, architecture, or large groups of people. When used in good lighting conditions, this lens delivers clear and detailed images, maintaining color integrity and sharpness across the frame. : While the phone features a macro lens for close-up shots, its performance can be inconsistent. In some cases, the macro lens might struggle to capture fine details, and the images may come out blurry or lacking sharpness, especially when focusing on very small objects. The quality of the macro shots often depends on the lighting conditions and the subject’s texture. This may be a disappointment for users who enjoy taking detailed close-ups regularly. : The AI in the phone’s camera system can sometimes over-process images, resulting in unnatural-looking photos. For instance, it might artificially boost saturation, smoothen skin too much in portrait shots, or over-sharpen edges, leading to a lack of naturalness. While AI enhancements can be useful for some users, others may find these results too “artificial,” especially when it alters colors and textures in ways that don’t reflect real life. : One of the more common issues with smartphones in this range is autofocus performance in low light, and the Infinix Hot 50 Pro Plus is no exception. In dimly lit environments, the camera can sometimes struggle to focus quickly, leading to a delay or misfocused shots. This can be especially noticeable when trying to capture moving objects in low light, where the camera might take longer to lock onto the subject, leading to missed shots or blurry photos. : While the phone offers a wide array of camera features, users have reported occasional lag or delays when switching between different modes or processing complex images. This may not be a dealbreaker for casual users, but those who frequently take photos may find the lag frustrating, particularly when shooting in fast-paced environments. The Infinix Hot 50 Pro Plus boasts a surprisingly capable camera system for a . The 108MP main sensor delivers impressive detail and the effective Night Mode ensures good performance in low-light conditions. The inclusion of OIS is a significant advantage, enhancing image stabilization and video quality. The ultra-wide lens offers a useful perspective, and the overall camera app is well-designed and user-friendly. However, the camera system isn’t without its shortcomings. Inconsistent macro performance, occasional AI over-processing, and autofocus challenges in low light can be observed. The Infinix Hot 50 Pro Plus offers a compelling camera experience for its price point. While it may not surpass dedicated camera phones, it certainly punches above its weight in the mid-range segment. If you prioritize a versatile camera system with features like OIS and a high-resolution main sensor, the Hot 50 Pro Plus should be on your shortlist. 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