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The U.S. just called a 90-day truce on the global trade war, but it’s escalating the situation with China.
(Image credit: FOX 5 New York / YouTube)
Just as the second round of his announced tariffs began to take effect, President Trump said he would delay their full implementation for many countries for 90 days. However, because China retaliated against the 104% tariff on its goods by applying 84% import duties on American goods, the White House is firing back by pushing the China levy back to 125%. This pause will apply to the 75 countries that have reciprocal tariffs applied against them but have not announced any retaliation against the planned higher tariff rates. However, a 10% tariff applied to all imports remains for those countries during the pause.
This news has allowed the market to recover a bit, with a few tech companies rebounding fromhitting their record lows. The 90-day period will also hopefully be enough time for many countries to negotiate a deal with the White House so that global trade can return to normal. However, the U.S.’s actions against Chinese trade are the latest in a series of moves escalating the trade war between the two countries.
Trump first applied a 20% tariff on Chinese goods in February, alongside the 25% taxes on Canada and Mexico. This jumped to 54% when he announced additional import duties in early April. Because of this,Beijing put a 34% levy on American productsandrestricted the export of several rare earth metals.
Trump responded with an additional 50% tax on the already existing 54%, pushing tariffs to 104%. Because of this, China retaliated with its own 50% increase, pushingimport taxes on American goods to 84%. This did not end there, though, as the latest Truth Social post by Trump says that he will push taxes on Chinese imports to 125%.
He made this announcement in the early afternoon in the U.S., which is just beyond midnight in Beijing. So, we’ll have to wait a few hours to see how China will react to this news.
It seems that the tariffs that Trump announced are meant to bring the rest of the world to the negotiating table, with Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick posting on X (formerly Twitter), “The world is ready to work with President Trump to fix global trade, and China has chosen the opposite direction.”
Incidentally, the E.U. just applied its own retaliatory tariffs on the U.S. a few hours before the announcement. However, this will not take effect until next week, so we don’t know if it will retract these levies or if Trump will also punish Europe with more taxes if it does not change its direction.
You’d be hard-pressed to find someone whoisn’tdispleased withWindows11 in some shape or form, but Microsoft is developing a newWindows 11Start menu that’s bound to make a lot of people happy.
Bluesky userphantomofearth, who dives into Windows Insider builds, discovered the new Start menu in a recent build. The menu offers a larger, more streamlined look that finally displays all of your apps in one place. More importantly, you can finally axe the Recommended feed.
The new Windows 11 Start menu
PreviousWindows 10users have been asking for this back forever now, which makes sense why people are so excited. Going a step backward is obviously a step forward for Windows, which surprises (let me check) no one.
To be clear, I am still using Windows 10 for my gaming PC for these exact issues… and also Microsoft put aridiculous hardware requirementon Windows 11. (At least I get to experience the silliness on each laptop I review.)
Again, I love that I don’t need to go through two different menus just to see my appsandthat I don’t need to see the (generally) useless Recommended section anymore. However, a list of all the apps in alphabetical order isn’t exactly clean, either. It just makes it more accessible.
Getting the apps front and center is nice and all, but I’m more excited about the overall customization.
With the new UI, you can easily switch between seeing “All” apps alphabetically, all apps in a Name Grid, and then in Categories. This isn’t anything new, but the Category setting previously felt useless because I’d have to click into the Start menu, click All, then click on the category with the app I want, and finally click the app.
However, now with Categories, you’d get an instant, clean look at all my apps in the Start menu on one page with little-to-no scrolling. This isn’t revolutionary by any means, but Microsoft makes Windows hard to love. Heck, that’s why some folksditched Windows 11 for Linux.
But if the Categories aren’t your style, you can now pin more apps, up to 8 per row. And you’re not stuck with 3 rows anymore, you can technically customize all the apps you see on your Start menu by doing this. So, folks who are very particular will have a field day customizing their Start menu.
If all you care about is ditching the Recommended section, however, you can disable it in the Personalization section in the Settings. Or at least whenever this update becomes available.
Technically, this feature was found in both the 23H2 and 24H2 versions of Windows 11. All that means is that we’ll likely see these new features soon, ideally in the coming weeks.
Wondering how two of the top flagship AI phones compare in camera quality? The battle of the camera phones continues in this latest shootout.
I’ve finally done it. I’ve tested out two of thebest camera phonesthat you can buy right now, and pittedApple’s iPhone 16 Pro Max, against Samsung’s newest flagship, theSamsung GalaxyS25 Ultra series. Both of these phones are infused with AI power and have some seriously impressive camera specs on paper, but there can only be one winner here, so which is it?
If you’re familiar with some of thebest iPhones for photography, then you’ll know that these smartphones are very capable of capturing a sharp shot. The iPhone 16 series is the first, however, to introduce the innovative new Camera Control Button, and I’m surprised by how much I really enjoyed using this feature. If you’re more of an Android fan (guilty), then Samsung smartphones are the best alternatives to Apple handsets for photographers and content creators, thanks to innovative features like personalised filters, super Nightography, and more detail with the AI ProVisual Engine.
Remember, it’s not all about owning the most expensive device to get great shots, and some of thebest budget camera phoneshave pleasantly surprised us too. Interested in more camera phone comparisons? Take a look at my shootout between theHonor Magic 7 Pro and my S24 Ultrato see how these models tackled stunning Slovenian landscapes. More recently, I also pitted theNothing Phone 3a Proagainst my Samsung, and the results were impressive.
Take a look at the spec table below to see what we’re working with, and then check out the results and image sliders (drag the slider to see the full image) and see for yourself how the iPhone 16 Pro Max faired against the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra.
During today’s camera phone shootout, I took to the sunny streets of Bath armed with both of these flagship camera phones, with the intent to capture the exact same shot with each device. I’ve never shot with either of these phones before, as my current smartphone of choice is the S24 Ultra.
To keep things fair, I stood in the same spot, used the same aspect ratio (16 by 9), and shot using the highest possible quality setting (excluding RAW modes) that both camera phones could muster, which is 48MP for the iPhone 16 Pro Max, and 200MP for the S25 Ultra.
I’m always interested in how AI assists with smartphone photography, as I think that sometimes it can be overused to increase saturation and vibrancy where it’s not needed. I think the image sliders above demonstrate that the images captured have accurate true-to-life colours, for a more natural-looking image rather than anInstagram-ready one.
The main focus of this camera phone shootout has been landscape imagery, but check outRankin’s 8 steps to Smartphone Photography Successif you’re seeking some excellent tips on shooting portraiture with a smartphone.
The iPhone 16 Pro Max comes equipped with a 48 MP f/1.8, 24mm (wide) camera, as well as a 48 MP f/2.2, 13mm ultrawide camera which isn’t far off what the Samsung S25 is sporting. One area where the iPhone 16 Pro Max is lacking is with its zoom, with only a 12 MP f/2.8, 120mm (periscope telephoto) lens. With that said, I did not notice any issues or distortion with the iPhone 16 Pro Max’s zoom camera, and it performed well in testing.
In comparison, the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra boasts a 200MP main camera (f/1.7), a 10MP telephoto (f/2.4), a 50MP periscope telephoto (f/3.4), and a new 50MP (previously 12MP) ultrawide (f/1.9) camera array. In terms of footage, my Samsung can shoot 8K at 30fps, compared with 4K at 120fps with the iPhone 16 Pro Max.
As you can see from the image sliders above, the difference in quality between these two camera phones is minimal and really splitting hairs. I have struggled to tell the difference between which phone captured which shot during the upload process and the only giveaway was the larger 20MB+ file sizes of the images shot with the 200MP S25 Ultra.
I can’t believe that I’m saying this publicly on the internet as a Samsung fan, but I have to admit that the iPhone 16 Pro Max might be the winner here (though it’s very very close). During today’s shootout, having never used either camera phone before, I found it much easier to use the iPhone 16 Pro Max and adjust camera settings on the fly thanks to the new Camera Control Button. Being able to control the aperture so easily really is a game-changer.
However, I did find when using the camera control button that it would active and change quite easily without me meaning to adjust it, and I think this may have been down to the Apple silicone case that we had on the phone during testing. The Samsung S25 Ultra performed exquisitely, as I had no doubt that it would, but the reason I think the iPhone succeeds here is not only ease of use – but the fact that Samsung had the advantage in this shootout with a 200MP main camera compared with the iPhone 16 Pro Max’s 48MP lens, yet the outcomes captured were very similar.
Game-Key Cards for the Nintendo Switch 2 are like physical game cards but without the game on them, and will prompt owners to download the game digitally. Now, Nintendo clarifies that they can be loaned or resold like regular game cards.
The Game-Key Card is always required to play a game. (Image source: Nintendo)
Alongside a new type of Game Card, Nintendo also announced that the Switch 2 will support what is calledGame-Key Cardswhich look like Game Cards but don’t contain an actual game. Instead, they are described as a key todownloading the full gameto your Switch 2. Now, Nintendo has provided new information about the Game-Key Cards.
When a Game-Key Card is purchased, buyers will have to insert it into the console and then proceed to download the game. An internet connection will be required the first time you launch the game for the first time. Subsequently, players will only need to insert the Game-Key Card into the Switch 2 to play, just like they do with a Game Card.
While that might sound as if the Game-Key Card is tied to a console, that isn’t the case. According to Nintendo’s Testuya Sasaki, the Game-Key Card isn’t tied to a console or Nintendo account, as they can be loaned, rented, and resold just like a regular Game Card.
An example of the packaging for a Nintendo Switch 2 Game-Key Card. (Image source: Nintendo)
Apparently, the reason for Game-Key Cards according to information provided by Nintendo America’s president, Doug Bowser, to The Verge, is so that publishers can sell physical copies of games that are larger than the 64GB capacity of the Nintendo Switch 2 Game Cards. However, it is impossible to rule out that some publishers will opt for Game-Key Cards even if their games don’t reach the 64GB max file size of a Switch 2 Game Card.
Despite the clarification that Game-Key Cards are not tied to accounts as is the case with digital downloads, there are those who are concerned about the future of these type of games several years into the future if the servers are shut down.
Considering owners of theNintendo 3DSandWii Ucan still redownload previously purchased games and download updates for their games despite theclosure of the eShopfor these consoles, it is safe to assume that those who purchase Game-Key Cards will always have access to download their games years down the line.
MarioKart Worldhas now been revealed, having been showcased during the recent Nintendo Switch 2 reveal event. From what we’ve seen so far, the newMarioKart looks primed to push the franchise forward, with a new art style, and seamless racing between tracks across a large map.
Of course, we’ve known about a new Mario Kart game for a while, as it was teased during the initial Nintendo Switch 2 event back in January. This full reveal is no doubt music to your ears, given just how long it’s been since we got a brand new Mario Kart game on consoles. We’ve even played it, and you can read what we thought in ourMario Kart Worldpreview.
Now we know that it’s coming toNintendo Switch 2, as well as some new details on what to expect. The promise of a new Mario Kart has certainly convinced us here at Oriccabattery to stay up to date withNintendo Switch 2 pre-orders.
Following its reveal,Mario Kart Worldis easily one of the most highly anticipatedupcoming gamesfor 2025. Hopefully, it’ll end up on our list of thebest Nintendo Switch gamesby the end of the year. Who knows, maybe it’ll even dethrone its predecessor after many, many years at the top of sales charts? Rather big shoes to fill indeed.
Here’s everything we know so far aboutMario Kart Worldso far, including a look at gameplay, as well as all of the latest news and trailers. As new info drops this page will be updated.
So far, we’ve only received one trailer forMario Kart World. It was revealed during the Nintendo Switch 2 Direct on April 2, 2025. This reveals the game’s name and gives us our first look at the new 24-player races.
We’ll likely hear more aboutMario Kart Worldin the coming months. To keep up to date with every trailer release for the game, be sure to check out theofficial Nintendo YouTube channel.Alternatively, you can stay up to date with all things Nintendo using theNintendo Today app.
Mario Kart World gameplay
(Image credit: Nintendo)
Mario Kart Worldgameplay was shown off during the Nintendo Switch 2 reveal event that aired on April 2, 2025. In it, we see that all tracks in the game lead into one another, in a large interconnected world map. This allows players to drive between tracks during Grand Prix. In addition, you can drive anywhere on a track, even outside of the guidelines.
From what we’ve seen so far,Mario Kart Worldfeatures a bunch of new mechanics. The first is the ability to grind, which is shown in the reveal trailer. Players can seemingly drive into larger vehicles and take them over as well. There are new items to play with too, like a burger seen in the aforementioned trailer. There’s wall-riding, and an expanded flying mechanic as well.
Races can now contain 24 players, the largest in the series so far. We’ll have to see how this works in action, but given the larger scope of the game’s world, we think it’ll be just the right mix of chaos and fun.
Mario Kart World characters
(Image credit: Nintendo)
So far, the following characters have been confirmed forMario Kart X:
Baby Daisy
Baby Luigi
Baby Mario
Baby Peach
Baby Rosalina
Birdo
Bowser
Bowser Jr.
Cataquack (new)
Chargin’ Chuck
Cheep Cheep (new)
Coin Coffer (new)
Conkdor (new)
Cow (new)
Daisy
Dolphin (new)
Donkey Kong
Dry Bones
Fish Bone (new)
Goomba
Hammer Bro.
King Boo
Koopa
Lakitu
Luigi
Mario
Monty Mole (new)
Nabbit
Para-Biddybud
Pauline
Peach
Peepa (new)
Penguin (new)
Pianta (new)
Piranha Plant (new)
Pokey (new)
Rocky Wrench (new)
Rosalina
Shy Guy
Sidestepper (new)
Snowman (new)
Spike (new)
Stingby (new)
Swoop (new)
Toad
Toadette
Waluigi
Wario
Wiggler
Yoshi
Mario Kart World tracks
(Image credit: Nintendo)
We’ve only seen a fewMario Kart Worldtracks in action – also called courses – with some returning from previous titles, while others are brand new to the series. Here’s what’s been revealed so far:
Mario Bros. Circuit
Crown City
DK Spaceport
Whistlestop Summit
Desert Hills (DS)
Shy Guy Bazaar (DS)
Wario Stadium (N64)
Airship Fortress (DS)
DK Pass (DS)
Starview Peak
Sky-High Sundae (Tour)
Wario Shipyard (3DS)
Koopa Troopa Beach (SNES)
Faraway Oasis
Peach Stadium
Moo Moo Meadows (Wii)
Bowser’s Castle
Mario Kart World: FAQs
Is Mario Kart World Nintendo Switch 2 only?
Yes,Mario Kart Worldis being developed exclusively for Nintendo Switch 2. It will not be available on the previous console.
Can you pre-order Mario Kart World?
You can now pre-orderMario Kart Worldin select region. Currently, it’s the UK that’s seeing the most Mario kart pre-order pages going live. We’ll update once we see it come to the US and other regions. For now, check out ourhow to pre-order the Switch 2article for more details.
Does Mario Kart World have splitscreen?
Mario Kart Worlddoes indeed have splitscreen. You can also play online, though a Nintendo Online subscription will likely be required.
Mario Kart World news
Nintendo confirms the Nintendo Switch 2 Joy-Con controllers have been ‘designed from the ground up’ and I couldn’t be happier Nintendo has confirmed thatthe Nintendo Switch 2 Joy-Con 2 controllers have been redesigned, hopefully, to avoid potential stick drift.
During anexclusive hands-on preview of the Nintendo Switch 2, TechRadar Gaming asked Technology Development Division general manager Tetsuya Sasaki if any improvements have been made to prevent Joy-Con stick drift.
Sasaki responded, confirming that the new magnetic Joy-Con 2 controllers have been completely redesigned for smoother gameplay.
Mario Kart World has been revealed Mario Kart World has now been officially revealed, and it’s a launch title!
Mario Kart World teased What we now know to beMario Kart Worldwasfirst teased during the first look at Nintendo Switch 2 event. We only saw a brief glimpse of gameplay, but it certainly got the internet talking.
While the Nintendo Switch 2 will be a significant jump over the original console in many respects, Nintendo has confirmed that the system’s controllers won’t be receiving a specific type of upgrade. A common pain point of the original Switch’s Joy-Cons and, to a lesser extent, even the Pro Controller, was that their control sticks were prone to drifting after prolonged use — and while the Switch 2’s controllers might prove to be better in that respect, they won’t be implementing a much-requested feature.
As confirmed in aNintendo Lifeinterview with Nintendo of America executive Nate Bihldorff,neither the Switch 2’s new Joy-Cons nor the Switch 2 Pro Controller will make use of Hall effect sticks— though Bihldorff stated that the Joy-Cons have been “designed from the ground up” and “feel really good.” While Bihldorff didn’t specifically address the issue of stick drift, he did make sure to stress that the Switch 2’s Pro Controller “is one of the quietest controllers[he’s]ever played.“
The Switch 2’s Controllers Come With Notable Upgrades, But Not Hall Effect Sticks
For reference, Hall effect sticks are control sticks that make use of magnets and electric conductors, eliminating the usual kinds of wear-and-tear that cause stick drift to develop in standard analog sticks. Notably, however, Hall effect sticks can have other issues, usually requiring larger dead zones and being somewhat susceptible to interference from external magnetic fields — the latter of which could possibly have been a concern for the Switch 2’s Joy-Cons, which already use magnets to snap onto the console.
Additionally, though Nintendo has yet to state whether the Switch 2 will improve on the original’s stick drift issues,there are some tangible upgrades being made to the systems’ Joy-Cons and Pro Controller. Most notably, the new Joy-Cons coming with the Switch 2 can function as a mouse, and the magnetic attachments should be less prone to wear and tear than the original Switch’s rail attachments. The Switch 2’s Pro Controller also includes “GL” and “GR” back buttons, which can have inputs from other buttons assigned to them for easier access, and an audio jack.
It’s Hard To Trust Nintendo On Analog Sticks After Drift Issues
The First Switch’s Stick Drift Issues Might Cause Buyers To Doubt The Switch 2
While Hall effect sticks may or may not have been the right solution to the Switch’s drift issues,it can be hard to trust that the Switch 2’s controllers aren’t just repeating the mistakes of the first console. Presumably, Nintendo would want to avoid a repeat of the original Joy-Cons drift issues, which at one point had users threatening a class-action lawsuit and caused Nintendo to have to set up a repair service. But before users can get their hands on the products for long-term use, it’s hard to say whether any tangible improvements have been made.
At the moment, the Switch 2 is facing larger issues, as the pricing of the console and its exclusive games are causing widespread backlash from potential buyers. With those prices unlikely to change, however, the next best step would be to make the console a quality, durable product worthy of its premium price point. For now, it’s uncertain whether the Nintendo Switch 2‘s controllers will suffer from stick drift as badly as the first console did, but the lack of Hall effect sticks might be a bad sign.
Double tap to turn a page or recap your previous read
Ever gotten so lost in a book series that you don’t remember a particular character’s arc or the ending of the last novel? Thanks to an AI-automated summary feature for Kindle devices, you’ll be back on track in no time.
Simply known as Recaps, the new feature acts like a “Previously on…” television segment, giving readers a quick refresher on storylines and characters before reading the next book in a series. This feature, however, is only available for books borrowed (aka via Prime Reading or Kindle Unlimited) or purchased from the Kindle Store and, of course, across ebooks in a series.
Users can access the new feature by downloading the 5.18.1 update on a 10th-gen or newer Kindle device. Once updated, readers should look for the “View Recaps” button in the series page in the Kindle Library or the “View Recaps” item within the series grouping three-dot menu. If the “View Recaps” button isn’t available, the feature is inaccessible for that series.
Tap, tap the side to turn
Another great feature included in the latest software update is Double Tap to Page Turn. As the name suggests, the feature can be switched on in Kindle settings, and instead of pressing the screen, users can double-tap the Kindle’s frame to turn a page or scroll down (i.e. on the Home or Library screen).
This is a fantastic new addition that makes Kindles with no physical page-turn buttons easier to use in one hand. There’s one disadvantage though: you can only move forward with double taps when reading, and users will have to rely on the usual screen taps to go back.
Both of these features are a real page turner for Kindle users, as they allow forgetful readers (like me) to recap a previous book or flip through pages without smudging the device’s screen. So far, Double Tap is available globally, whereas Recaps has only rolled out on Kindle devices in the US and on the iOS app.Amazonhas not confirmed when it will be accessible for readers globally.
While the company’s press release doesn’t explicitly mention the use of AI in Kindle’s new feature, it has been confirmed in a statement toTechCrunch. As per an Amazon spokesperson, “we use technology, including GenAI and Amazon moderators, to create short recaps of books that accurately reflect book content”.
This isn’t Amazon’s only foray into using AI across its devices. TheKindle Scribes have AI summariesand handwriting recognition, while Ring cameras recently introduced aSmart Video Searchfor premium subscribers, using text-to-image prompts to scour saved footage.
Readers have raised some red flags onRedditabout these AI-powered features, with concerns about recap accuracy and how Amazon plans to ensure that moderator checks are actually completed. The company claims recaps do accurately reflect content, but we have reached out for verification of these processes. We’ll keep you updated on how this narrative pans out.
President Donald Trump’s recent introduction of a 25% tariff on aluminum imports has raised concerns within the PC hardware industry, particularly regarding potential price increases for graphics cards and desktop cases. As perPCMag, industry insiders are alarmed by the possible ramifications of these tariffs on manufacturers and consumers.
Aluminum is a fundamental material in constructing PC cases and is also utilized in manufacturing various GPU components. The newly imposed tariffs are expected to increase production costs for these items, leading to higher retail prices. This development is particularly concerning for consumers seeking affordable options in an already inflation-sensitive market.
Reports of the aluminum tariff’s impact on PC hardware first surfaced on Reddit, where user “Neoescape” warned that the additional duties were affecting GPU imports. “We recently imported several data center GPUs and got blindsided by a huge bill due to this additional 25% aluminum-related tariff,” the user wrote. However, the moderators quickly deleted the post.
Kelt Reeves, CEO of custom PC maker Falcon Northwest, confirmed to PCMag that the company has already felt the impact of the new tariffs. “Yes, we’ve already been affected heavily. We thought that tariff was on raw aluminum and steel, not finished PC cases,” Reeves explained. However, the policy also extends to aluminum derivative products, including PC components, further increasing costs for manufacturers and consumers.
Similarly, PC case manufacturer SilverStone Technology has been hit with the 25% aluminum tariff on top of the existing 20% tariff on Chinese imports. The company stated that since many of its cases are made primarily from steel and aluminum, these tariffs have significantly impacted costs. Likewise, InWin, another PC case vendor, reported that while it maintains prices using its existing stock, price adjustments may become necessary as inventory runs low.
A few days ago,Asus announced plansto shift production from China to other countries to avoid anticipated U.S. tariffs. This move may lead to increased product prices due to the costs associated with setting up new manufacturing facilities.
According to U.S. Customs and Border Protection, the aluminum tariff is determined by the value of the aluminum content in an import. However, unless suppliers specify the exact aluminum content in products like graphics cards—which is often difficult to obtain—customs brokerage services like UPS and FedEx default to applying the tariff to the entire shipment value, leading to potentially higher costs for buyers.
The tariffs are expected to result in higher retail prices for GPUs and desktop cases, components that heavily rely on aluminum. This development is particularly concerning for consumers planning to build or upgrade their PCs, as it could increase overall costs. The situation also highlights the broader implications of trade policies on the technology sector and consumer expenses.
Learn what CAD is how it’s used in architecture, engineering and product design.
(Image credit: Laurence Dutton via Getty Images)
What is CAD? you might be wondering if you’re considering a career in architecture, engineering or product design. Jobs in these areas often require skills in computer-aided design as a requisite, but what is CAD exactly, how does it work, and how do you learn it?
Since we specialise in news and reviews on a wide range of creative sectors, we’ve reviewed a lot of CAD software over the years, and we’ve spoken to users who contribute features and tutorials to the site. In this guide, we’ll provide a basic overview of everything you need to know about CAD to get started. From here, you might want to check our guide to thebest laptops for CAD and AutoCAD.
What is CAD?
(Image credit: Laurence Dutton via Getty Images)
CAD stands for computer-aided design, although you may also hear the earlier term computer-aided drafting, or a combination: computer-aided design and drafting (CADD). These might sound like quite broad concepts, and they are. CAD can refer to any use of computers to help the design process, but there are two main types: 2D CAD and 3D CAD.
CAD is used to create, modify, test and analyse or optimise design in a wide range of areas, from designing skyscrapers to tiny machine parts.
In the past, designs were drafted by hand using pencil on paper. CAD emerged in the 1960s and have shaped how designers work by replacing drawing boards, protractors and T-squares with specialist computer programs.
These programs allow users to efficiently create virtual replicas of physical artifacts to test and iterate on them and then produce electronic files for print, machining or other forms of manufacturing. These can take the form of 2D blueprints or 3D models.
What is CAD used for?
(Image credit: Kumpan Electric via Unsplash)
CAD is used in a wide range of industries, from architecture and product design to aerospace, automobile design, electrical engineering and life sciences. As a result, people entering these areas will often be expected to have CAD skills.
Within these fields, CAD tools are used for everything from concept development and creating mockups and visual prototypes to the detailed design of components, analysis and optimisation, creating guidelines and instructions, rendering and animation.
How does CAD work?
CAD programs allow designers to visualise designs, simulate performance to test them for stress, material strength and then make adjustments and iterate.
The process and workflows used vary across different industries and depend on the type of CAD used. Architects use CAD to envision real-world buildings in a virtual environment, first through conceptual sketches to detailed blueprints.
By using CAD programs, architects can experiment with designs, layouts and materials and check that their choices meet the desired aesthetics as well as practical needs for a given site.
CAD has a lot of benefits compared to hand-drawing. It allows virtual prototyping, the creation of complex geometry and assemblies and precise virtual analysis of properties, tolerance and kinematics. CAD programs can also be used to create photorealistic product renders.
Since they allow users to simulate performance, CAD programs make it easier to test things and ensure components fit a project before going to production, improving efficiency and accuracy. Designs made using CAD software can also help protect products concepts by providing documentation for patent applications, and they can speed up time to market.
Using CAD software increases productivity too since programs are optimised to speed up workflows and automate repetitive tasks. Settings can be adjusted to different industry standards, and parts of drawings can be reused in others. CAD can also improve communication among team members and partners by producing neat drawings and clear documentation and databases, and CAD data can be used to extract machine codes for computer-aided manufacturing (CAM).
We have a dedicated guide to the types of CAD, but basically there are two main types of CAD: 2D and 3D.
2D CAD models are flat technical drawings providing information such as structural details and dimensions. This can include floor plans for buildings and blueprints for the manufacture or reproduction of objects.
3D CAD models provide virtual models of objects in all dimensions and can also show how they operate and fit together with other objects. These are using in mechanics, manufacturing and car design and more.
If you’re considering a career in a field where CAD is used, you may be wondering how long it takes to learn CAD and whether you can learn CAD on your own.
Most people learn CAD through a combination of formal online or in-person courses, tutorials, and practical exercises. If you want to learn CAD on your own for free, there are lots of tutorials online. It will probably be best to start by choosing the software program that’s most used in your industry and following online tutorials and practice projects and joining online communities dedicated to that specific program.
Experts suggest that it’s possible to learn the basics of CAD with about 20 hours of tuition and up to around 100 hours of practicing. If you don’t already have drawing skills, you may want to start there an first master the basics of 2D drawing and then 3D. You’ll also need to be familiar with basic mathematical and geometrical concepts.
If you are looking for somewhere accessible to start, TinkerCADis free and relatively simple. It runs in your browser and has built-in tutorials.
Since Apple connected its PCs with smartphones and tablets using its MacOS and iOS operating systems to provide a seamless user experience some 10 to 15 years ago, multiple attempts have been made to replicate similar capabilities with Windows-based PCs. One such attempt is Intel’s Unison app, which was released in early 2022 and will be discontinued this June, reportsNeowin.
“Intel Unison will soon be discontinued,” reads a statement by Intel in Apple’s AppStore,Google’s PlayStore, andMicrosoft’s Store. “The first step in its wind-down process is ending service for most platforms at the end of June 2025. Lenovo Aura platforms will retain service through 2025.”
Intel’s Unison allows users to make phone calls, send text messages, get notifications, and transfer files and photos between Android and iOS handsets andWindows 11PCs. The app is a part of Intel’s Evo program to improve the user experience with premium Windows 11 PCs running its 12th-Gen Core processors or newer. However, the company no longer sees the app as one of its competitive advantages.
Intel did not disclose why it decided to discontinue its Unison app. Perhaps this is a part of the company’s broader cost-cutting strategy, and if so, we could see Intel dropping support for other software efforts in the coming months. Recently, Lip-Bu Tan, Intel’s new chief executive, said that the company planned to can or spin off operations that no longer fit its core strategy, and apps like Unison barely do. While it certainly improves the user experience with Intel-based PCs, it is not an exclusive app, and maintaining a large fleet of software costs money that Intel wants to preserve for developing its core products.
This is perhaps because Intel’s Unison is not a unique app, as multiple programs connect smartphones with Windows PCs. Microsoft offers Phone Link, and Samsung has its own version called Flow.Dellhas tried to offer its own Mobile Connect app, but it did not work flawlessly with iPhones, so it discontinued it somewhere along the line, clearing the road for Intel’s Unison and Microsoft’s Phone Link. Although Intel’s Unison could be a fine app, Microsoft’s Phone Link has better compatibility as it works with virtually all PCs running Windows 10.
