#best wearable tech

[kidsstories1]

Top 10 Best Smartwatch's in 2024 | Best Smartwatches you can buy right now!

Apple Watch Ultra, Samsung Galaxy Watch 6, Fitbit Versa 4, Garmin Fenix 8, Fossil Gen 7, Amazfit GTR 4, Oppo Watch 3, Suunto 9 Peak, TicWatch Pro 5, Huawei Watch GT 4

#TopSmartwatch2024 #BestWearableTech #SmartWatchTrends #WearableFitness #TechWatches #GadgetLovers #WearableGadgets #SmartWatchRevolution #InnovativeWearables #CuttingEdgeWatches #FitnessTrackingWatch #HealthMonitoringWatch #SportsTechWatch #OutdoorAdventureWatch #LuxurySmartWatch #DesignerWearables #SmartWatchFashion #TechStyleFusion #WearableTechStyle #SmartWatchEnthusiasts #WearableTechLovers #GadgetFreaks #TechJunkies #WearableTechGeeks #SmartWatchAddicts

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[crazydiscostu]

RingConn Smart Ring

The emerging and vast universe of wearable technology continues to expand as the human race integrates it seamlessly into their day to day activities. From smartwatches to fitness trackers, these gadgets have become integral companions on our journey towards better health and wellness. Today we’re looking at one of those latest innovations – the RingConn Smart Ring, a sleek and sophisticated…

[linke-to]

Do You Really Need a VPN? Find Out!

Introduction

In today’s digital world, our online privacy is constantly under threat. Have you ever wondered how secure your personal data is when you're browsing the web or accessing public Wi-Fi? With increasing concerns about data breaches and surveillance, many people are turning to Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) to shield their online activities. But with so many options available, it can be overwhelming to figure out whether a VPN is truly necessary for you or if it’s just another tech trend.

This article aims to demystify VPNs by providing a clear and concise overview of what they are and why they have become a hot topic in the realm of internet security. We'll delve into the core functions of VPNs, explore their benefits and potential drawbacks, and help you assess if a VPN aligns with your personal online needs. By the end of this guide, you'll have a better understanding of whether a VPN is an essential tool for you or if other solutions might be more suitable for safeguarding your online presence.

What is a VPN?

A Virtual Private Network (VPN) is a tool designed to enhance your online privacy and security. At its core, a VPN creates a secure, encrypted connection between your device and the internet. This connection acts like a private tunnel that shields your online activities from prying eyes, making it harder for anyone, including hackers and internet service providers, to monitor what you're doing online. Think of a VPN as a protective cloak that conceals your digital footprint and allows you to browse the internet with a greater sense of security.

The functionality of a VPN involves routing your internet traffic through a remote server, which masks your IP address and encrypts your data. This process not only hides your true location but also ensures that any data you send or receive is encrypted, making it nearly impossible for unauthorized parties to access. By connecting to servers in various locations, a VPN also allows you to bypass geographical restrictions and access content that might otherwise be blocked in your region. This dual-layer protection—hiding your IP address and encrypting your data—creates a more secure and private browsing experience.

Understanding "What is a VPN?" is crucial for anyone concerned about online privacy. In an era where personal data is a valuable commodity and cyber threats are prevalent, having a VPN can be a significant asset. It offers peace of mind by safeguarding your information and providing a shield against potential threats. As we explore further in this article, you'll learn more about when a VPN is most beneficial and if it’s the right choice for your personal online security needs.

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Should I Accept VPN?

When considering whether to accept or adopt a VPN, it’s important to weigh its numerous benefits. One of the primary advantages of using a VPN is enhanced privacy. By masking your IP address and encrypting your internet traffic, a VPN shields your online activities from prying eyes such as hackers, advertisers, and even your internet service provider. This level of privacy ensures that your personal data remains confidential, making it significantly more challenging for third parties to track your browsing habits. Additionally, a VPN provides access to restricted or geo-blocked content, allowing you to enjoy streaming services, websites, and information that may be limited based on your location.

A VPN can be particularly relevant in various scenarios. For instance, if you frequently use public Wi-Fi networks, such as those in cafes or airports, a VPN offers an added layer of security against potential cyber threats. Public networks are often vulnerable to attacks, and a VPN helps protect your sensitive information from being intercepted. Similarly, if you travel often and want to access your home country’s streaming services or websites that are otherwise inaccessible abroad, a VPN can easily bypass these regional restrictions and provide you with the content you desire.

Considering the question "Should I accept VPN?" also involves evaluating your personal and professional needs. If you’re concerned about online privacy or frequently work with sensitive information, using a VPN can significantly enhance your digital security. It can also be beneficial if you live in a region with restrictive internet policies and want to freely access global content. On the other hand, if your online activities are relatively routine and you rarely access sensitive data, you may not find a VPN as crucial, although it still provides added security.

Ultimately, deciding whether to accept a VPN depends on your specific needs and concerns. The key is to assess how often you encounter situations where privacy and security are paramount. If these concerns resonate with your online habits, integrating a VPN into your routine can be a proactive step towards safeguarding your digital life and expanding your internet freedom.

When Should You Not Use a VPN?

While VPNs offer numerous benefits, there are certain situations where using one might not be ideal or necessary. For example, if you're accessing websites or services that don’t handle sensitive information or are already secure, the added layer of encryption provided by a VPN might be redundant. Additionally, if you're in a low-risk environment, such as a private and secure home network, the need for a VPN diminishes. Similarly, some websites and online services are designed to detect and block VPN traffic, which can result in difficulties accessing the content you need.

Another important consideration is the impact a VPN can have on your internet speed and performance. Because VPNs reroute your internet traffic through an external server, this can introduce latency and reduce connection speeds. This slowdown can be noticeable when streaming high-definition content or engaging in online gaming, where speed and responsiveness are crucial. If you’re performing activities that demand high-speed connections or if you have a limited bandwidth allocation, the performance drop caused by a VPN might outweigh its benefits.

Deciding when not to use a VPN also involves evaluating your specific use cases. For instance, if you’re using the internet for casual browsing or non-sensitive activities, the added security of a VPN might not be worth the potential decrease in speed. Moreover, for certain applications and services that function best with a direct connection, using a VPN could interfere with their optimal performance. It’s essential to weigh the trade-offs and determine whether the privacy and security benefits of a VPN align with your current needs and online behavior.

What is the Downside of a VPN?

While VPNs are often praised for enhancing online privacy and security, they are not without their downsides. One major concern is the privacy of the VPN provider itself. Although VPNs are designed to shield your data from external parties, some providers may log user activity or metadata, potentially compromising the very privacy they aim to protect. It’s crucial to research and choose a VPN service with a strict no-logs policy and transparent privacy practices to ensure that your data remains confidential.

Another consideration is the cost associated with subscribing to a VPN service. While free VPNs are available, they often come with limitations such as reduced speeds, fewer server options, and potential privacy issues. Paid VPN services, which generally offer better performance and security features, can range from relatively affordable to quite expensive. This ongoing expense might not be justifiable for everyone, especially if the benefits of a VPN do not align with their online activities and security needs.

Compatibility issues can also pose a challenge when using a VPN. Some websites and online services actively block VPN traffic to prevent bypassing geographical restrictions or fraud detection. This can result in difficulties accessing certain content or services while connected to a VPN. Additionally, certain applications and websites may not function properly with VPNs enabled, leading to disruptions in your online experience. It’s important to consider these potential drawbacks when evaluating whether a VPN is the right choice for your needs.

Does a VPN Affect Wi-Fi?

When you connect to a VPN, it’s common to experience changes in your Wi-Fi speed. A VPN routes your internet traffic through a secure server, which can introduce additional layers of encryption and data handling. This process, while enhancing security, can slow down your internet connection. The extent of this speed reduction depends on several factors, including the VPN server’s location, the encryption protocol used, and the overall quality of the VPN service. High-quality VPNs often minimize speed loss, but users should be prepared for potential decreases in browsing speed.

Network issues are another consideration when using a VPN over Wi-Fi. VPN connections can sometimes lead to unstable network performance, causing intermittent drops or slower connectivity. This can be especially noticeable on wireless networks with lower signal strength or higher congestion. Additionally, because VPNs create an encrypted tunnel for data, they may interfere with certain network protocols or configurations, potentially leading to connectivity problems or difficulty accessing specific online services.

In some cases, the interaction between a VPN and Wi-Fi networks can lead to unexpected complications. For instance, VPNs might struggle with certain types of network hardware or software, which can cause compatibility issues or connectivity errors. Additionally, some Wi-Fi networks, particularly in public or restricted environments, may block VPN traffic, further complicating your internet access. Users should consider these potential problems and test their VPN connection on various networks to ensure consistent performance.

Overall, while a VPN can impact Wi-Fi speed and connectivity, the degree of effect largely depends on the quality of the VPN service and the specific network conditions. For users who prioritize online privacy and security, the trade-off in speed and potential network issues might be worthwhile. However, it’s important to choose a reputable VPN provider and understand how it might interact with your Wi-Fi setup to minimize any negative impacts.

Is a VPN Needed for Home Wi-Fi?

When considering home Wi-Fi security, many people wonder if a VPN is necessary. A VPN can certainly add an extra layer of protection by encrypting your internet traffic and masking your IP address, which is beneficial for safeguarding sensitive information from potential threats. However, for most home networks, basic security measures such as strong passwords, WPA3 encryption, and regular firmware updates on your router are often sufficient to protect against common threats. While a VPN enhances security, its benefits might be more pronounced for those who frequently use public Wi-Fi or access sensitive information remotely.

Beyond using a VPN, there are several effective ways to secure your home Wi-Fi network. Implementing robust security protocols like WPA3 can prevent unauthorized access and ensure that your network is shielded from potential intruders. Additionally, regularly updating your router’s firmware and setting up a guest network for visitors can further bolster your home network's security. For many users, these measures, combined with cautious online behavior, can provide adequate protection without the need for a VPN.

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Is There Anything Better Than a VPN?

When it comes to online privacy and security, VPNs are often touted as the go-to solution, but they’re not the only tools available. Alternatives like proxy servers, secure browsers, and end-to-end encryption can also offer significant protection for your digital activities. Proxy servers, for instance, act as intermediaries between your device and the internet, masking your IP address but typically without the same level of encryption as a VPN. Secure browsers like Tor are designed to enhance privacy by routing your internet traffic through multiple servers, though they can sometimes slow down your browsing experience. End-to-end encryption ensures that your communications are only readable by the intended recipients, making it ideal for secure messaging and email.

Comparing these alternatives to VPNs reveals distinct differences in effectiveness and use cases. VPNs provide robust encryption, which secures all of your internet traffic and is effective across various devices and platforms. In contrast, proxy servers offer less security but can be useful for bypassing geo-restrictions. Secure browsers like Tor offer enhanced anonymity but may suffer from slower speeds and limited usability. End-to-end encryption is crucial for protecting specific types of communication, but it does not encrypt all internet traffic like a VPN does. Each tool has its strengths and limitations, so the best choice depends on your specific privacy and security needs.

While VPNs offer comprehensive protection, evaluating these alternatives can help you find a solution that best fits your requirements. For users who need robust, all-encompassing privacy, a VPN might be the preferred choice. However, if you’re looking for targeted protection or want to supplement your existing security measures, integrating secure browsers, proxies, or end-to-end encryption into your digital routine can be effective. Each tool can complement a VPN or serve as an alternative based on what aspects of privacy and security are most important to you.

Ultimately, the choice between a VPN and other privacy tools depends on the level of security and anonymity you seek. For comprehensive protection and convenience, a VPN is often a strong choice. However, exploring other options like proxy servers, secure browsers, and end-to-end encryption can provide additional layers of security and privacy, catering to various needs and preferences.

Do We Really Need a VPN?

In the ongoing debate about online privacy and security, the necessity of a VPN often boils down to a balance of pros and cons. On the plus side, VPNs offer substantial advantages such as enhanced privacy by masking your IP address, secure data encryption to protect sensitive information, and the ability to access geo-restricted content. These features make VPNs a valuable tool for anyone concerned about their digital footprint or wanting to bypass regional restrictions. However, VPNs also come with potential drawbacks, including the cost of subscription services, possible slowdowns in internet speed, and occasional compatibility issues with certain websites or services. Understanding these benefits and limitations is crucial in evaluating whether a VPN aligns with your needs.

Deciding whether to invest in a VPN requires a personal assessment of your internet habits and security requirements. For users who frequently handle sensitive information, access region-locked content, or simply wish to enhance their online privacy, a VPN can be an essential tool. On the other hand, if you only use the internet for basic browsing and are not concerned about privacy or geographic restrictions, the necessity of a VPN may be less compelling. It's important to weigh your specific needs and how a VPN would fit into your overall digital security strategy.

Ultimately, the question of whether we really need a VPN is a highly individual one. Consider your internet usage patterns, your level of concern about privacy, and your willingness to invest in additional security measures. By carefully evaluating these factors, you can make an informed decision about whether a VPN is a worthwhile addition to your online toolkit. Whether you opt for a VPN or choose other methods to safeguard your digital life, the key is to ensure that your choices align with your personal privacy and security goals.

Conclusion

As we’ve explored, the decision to use a VPN hinges on weighing its benefits against its potential drawbacks. VPNs provide valuable features such as enhanced privacy, secure browsing, and access to geo-restricted content. However, they also present challenges, including potential impacts on internet speed and the financial cost of subscription services. Ultimately, the effectiveness of a VPN depends on your individual online habits and security needs. Understanding these aspects will help you make an informed choice about whether a VPN is right for you.

It’s essential to take stock of your own online activities and security concerns when evaluating whether to use a VPN. Consider how often you handle sensitive information, if you frequently access content restricted by geography, and whether you are willing to pay for a subscription. By aligning your personal needs with the features offered by VPNs, you can determine whether this tool will enhance your online experience or if other solutions might be more appropriate.

We’d love to hear from you about your experiences with VPNs or any questions you might have! Please share your thoughts, stories, or inquiries in the comments section below. Your feedback not only helps us understand your perspective but also assists fellow readers in navigating their own decisions about VPN use. Engage with us and be part of the conversation about securing our digital lives!

FAQ: Understanding VPNs

What is VPN and Why Do I Need It?

A VPN, or Virtual Private Network, is a tool that creates a secure, encrypted connection between your device and the internet. By masking your IP address and routing your internet traffic through a remote server, a VPN enhances your online privacy and security. You might need a VPN to protect sensitive data from hackers, access region-restricted content, or maintain anonymity while browsing.

Is it Worth Getting a VPN?

Whether a VPN is worth the investment depends on your personal needs and online habits. For those who frequently use public Wi-Fi, handle sensitive information, or want to access content unavailable in their region, a VPN offers substantial benefits. It enhances security, provides privacy, and enables unrestricted access to global content. However, if you mostly use the internet for general browsing and don’t engage in activities that require high privacy, the need for a VPN might be less critical.

What is the Downside of Having a VPN?

While VPNs offer numerous advantages, they also have some downsides. Potential issues include reduced internet speed due to encryption overhead, possible compatibility problems with certain websites or services, and the cost of subscription services. Additionally, some VPN providers may log user data, which could undermine privacy if not carefully vetted.

When Should a VPN Not Be Used?

A VPN might not be necessary in every situation. For example, if you’re using a secure, private network or accessing sites and services that don’t require high levels of privacy, the benefits of a VPN may be minimal. Additionally, VPNs can sometimes interfere with online services, such as streaming platforms or secure financial transactions, which may not function correctly when routed through a VPN server.

Is VPN Legal in the UK?

Yes, using a VPN is legal in the UK. It is a common tool for enhancing privacy and securing internet connections. However, while VPNs themselves are legal, they should not be used to engage in illegal activities. Ensure that you comply with all laws and regulations when using a VPN.

Should I Accept VPN?

Accepting a VPN largely depends on your personal security needs and internet usage. If privacy, data security, or access to restricted content are important to you, accepting and using a VPN can be a prudent choice. Evaluate your online habits and determine whether a VPN aligns with your requirements for enhanced protection and access.

Is it Good to Have VPN on All the Time?

Having a VPN on all the time can be beneficial, particularly if you frequently access public Wi-Fi or handle sensitive information. It ensures that your data is consistently protected and that your online activities remain private. However, if a VPN causes significant slowdowns or interferes with specific services, you might choose to turn it on only when needed. Evaluate your personal usage to determine the best approach.

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[sleeprecoverytech]

Best Sleep Tech for Pre-Competition Anxiety: A Comprehensive Guide

Getting quality sleep before a competition is crucial for athletes, especially those dealing with pre-competition anxiety. The best sleep tech for pre-competition anxiety not only enhances rest but also improves overall performance. Section readability: Flesch 65, Grade 7, avg 10 words. Pre-competition anxiety is common among athletes. It can lead to restlessness and affect sleep quality.…

[lmsintmedia]

The Top Health Gadgets Every Fitness Enthusiast Should Own

Staying on top of your fitness game isn’t just about hitting the gym or following a workout plan—it’s also about using the right tools to track progress, stay motivated, and optimize performance. The right health gadgets can make all the difference. Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or just getting started, these must-have devices will level up your fitness journey. 1. Smartwatches & Fitness…

[radiantrealities]

Tech Gadgets That Will Change Your Life in 2024

Technology continues to evolve at a breakneck speed, and as we move into 2024, there are some exciting gadgets that promise to make our lives more convenient, efficient, and connected. Whether you’re a tech enthusiast or simply someone looking to make daily tasks easier, this year has something for everyone. In this blog post, we’ll dive into the tech gadgets that are shaping our world in 2024,…

[techtoio]

The Complete Guide to Wearable Tech: Smartwatches and Fitness Trackers

Introduction

Wearables have changed the way we interact with digital space. Today, smartwatches and activity trackers have grown into indispensable assistants in matters of health management, communication, and productivity boost. And now, this all-in guide helps you to learn everything about new devices to make a competent choice regarding the one to use. Read to continue...

[techsoulculture]

Common Wearable Tech Issues 2023

Wearable gadgets are used by the majority of people, and the field of wearable tech is expanding in popularity Wearable app developers have

[crazydiscostu]

BiggerFive Star, Kids Smart Watch

Any parent will tell you, children are increasingly drawn to gadgets that offer entertainment, education, and connectivity. One such gadget that has gained popularity in recent years is the BiggerFive Star Kids Smart Watch. With its array of features designed specifically for young users, this smartwatch offers a blend of fun and functionality without the need for a smartphone connection or…

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3. RingConn Gen 2, World’s First Smart Ring with Sleep Apnea Monitoring, No APP Subscription, 12-Day Battery Life, Stress/Heart Rate/Women’s Health Tracker, Android & iOS Compatible (Silver, Size 10) (⭐️ 4.3) The key benefit of the RingConn Gen 2 is its accurate tracking features, including sleep apnea monitoring, stress, heart rate, and women’s health tracking, all without the need for a…

[do-you-have-a-flag]

i'm just gonna call it that we need to practice mindful tech usage and security and i don't mean screentime tracking apps and vpns or whatever i mean starting from early childhood and going into adult wellbeing culture to encourage tactile hobbies and long-form work and the understanding of online devices as commodifying the user with spyware

i'm talking throwback word processors with the same ergonomics as regular smart devices for general educational work and dedicated subjects for working with digital technologies so you have theory in practice and then applying that theory in a contemporary work context. that's where you learn applications, digital safety, and how to implement the generative tools. separately. once you've already developed the critical analysis and expressive skills first.

i have been basically addicted to the internet since i was 13, i've had ups and downs with it, but i've always had a little bit of over caution when it comes to information and identity online. i overshare what i chose to but i think the break down of privacy as a norm when it comes to personal data tracking is genuinely awful.

i like algorithms in some places but i do not think this super-customisation is worth this panopticon of tech.

have you heard about how phone locations can still be triangulated when the phone is off? this is incidentally why if you are gong to protests and you think you are in danger it might be best to leave it at home. but generally if you want to avoid audio and video being used to build a marketing profile you can just switch it off and pop it in a bag or the next room. but with fb trying to make voice command smart glasses a thing (after snapchat and google both failed to sustain the same product) it bears caution that so called wearable tech such as glasses, pendants, watches, earbuds, ect.... even outside of smart cars there's the risk of passive listening for user marketing profiles. we already have location based advertising, ads that track your useage to predict your menstrual cycle or life events, public ads that react to nearby phones

i am going off on this tangent to say that i am not naïve to the fact that we already have to constantly dig into 'dark patterns' of settings to opt out of surveillance and commodification. i'm aware that the easiest path is to do nothing and use the shortcut machines even when they don't actually help or save much time or effort beyond selling you tools that already exist with a new price tag. i'm aware that the plagiarism software with no idea what it's talking about and runs on resource wasting pollution and underpaid remote human labour that also gets slapped in every function role despite basically being fancy autofil and pixel pulp not only has all of those issues but the lay person is either unaware or does not care and companies only care that it is a new way to pretend they're innovating. i know all this just like i know that mass automation is just exploitation unless it is balanced with social structures for all that mean emancipation from the need for labour.

but while i think all tech can be used for good, facilitating human connection across physical distance, carefully trained data analysis on a rapid large scale, removing the tedium of technical drudgery where needed, just providing light entertainment. but we have gotta be better about legislating, moderating, and use culture.

use culture goes hand in hand with convenience. it's why vinyl records are still trendy, not only are they good at what they do, but there is enough cool factor that the inconvenience becomes a feature. CDs are also convenient still! but CDs do not have the cool factor so they get wiped out by the convenience of streaming. playlists in streaming have a cool factor that radio does not despite radio still being convenient. and remember no matter how much streaming claims you can pay to opt out of ads that's usually something that you get payment tiered out of eventually so the convenience facilitated by accessibility is debatable the longer time passes.

looping back to my original point, if we can encourage an understanding of digital privacy as something you shouldn't be complacent about, that you shouldn't have to pay for tools to get out of the spotlight, that it is immensely embarrassing to be too into exploitation by tech companies and make that the problem of everyone around you. user control should be synonymous with convenience. customisability/personalisation through individual control rather than passive scraping. you can still commodify decorative tech.

we gotta make slop and babying algorithm brained tech usage cringe. people don't care to hear that it's immoral so just make them feel uncool at this point. because it is embarrassing that you have the universe of resources at your fingertips and you're too scared to do anything with it other than beg it to put words in your mouth. who cares if you're chronically online or too busy irl to learn a new skill. you are like a little bird pecking at it's own reflection, that's sad. try saying something mediocre and honest. we gotta stop tap dancing into technofeudalism just because we're too complacent to actually talk to each-other.

[mallory524]

Okay, so this is kinda like a pt.2 of platonic child reader if that'd okay? I just thought about something, what if something happens to you, ? Like something about Valentina doing something to you that changes you a bit, and how they react to it? Bob's def mad about that,

This is a bit angst, but everyone needs a bit of angst in their lifes, hehe :3

(STOP THIS IS SUCH A GOOD IDEA i love it, part 2 babyyyy)

thunderbolts & platonic child reader - angsty part ii

tags- a year after thunderbolts*, manipulation by valentina, mentions of minor burn injuries, angsty because reader's sad and everyone's sad but it's all okay, mentions of all the thunderbolts' pasts

notes- hey y'all idk what happened, i was crashing out like 2 days ago and i guess i redirected all my stress and obsessive energy towards this and then forgot to post it until now. maybe this is incoherent or great idk, anyway it's way longer than i intended

It's really weird when you and Valentina start to talk like you're friends or something.

At first you had just kinda brushed her off. She took advantage of your friends and nearly had them killed, but it's a weird position to be in because the New Avengers now work with her. Of course they all hate her, and so do you.

She is good at making conversation, though. At least you've got someone to talk to when the team is away.

She shows you around some labs and rooms you haven't had the clearance to get into before. Whenever you're together, she sprinkles in little comments about how smart and mature you are, and how the team should let you in on more than they do. You know what she's doing, so you mostly just ignore it. Mostly.

Valentina does have a point; they haven't been letting you in recently. Make no mistake, they always make sure you feel really appreciated and loved, but they've just been a bit distracted with all the work that's started to pile up.

One day Valentina offers you some wearable tech you've never seen before. She says it's so you can "protect yourself". It's a weapon. A weapon that's too powerful for you. It feels all wrong. You're an honorary New Avenger at best, you're not a fighter like them, and they'd freak out if they found out Valentina offered you this. You don't get why she's doing this, and you turn it down. It's just too weird.

Of course, you don't even know the half of it. You weren't around when she did this exact thing to Bob.

A few nights later, Bucky finds out about your friendship with Valentina... if you can even call this a friendship. It's like a working relationship between two people who don't work together. She has no business trying to get to know you like this. It feels nefarious.

You never get into fights with the group, or at least not about anything serious; it's usually just bickering about nonsense. This night however, you and Bucky argue for a while. The others jump in to side with him, and that just makes it worse.

There's a lot of "We told you, she's not someone you want to be friends with." and "It's not like we're best friends! I can't talk to people? Why are you acting like I'm a little kid" and "We told you about everything she did and you're still-" and on and on and over and over-

There's something different about you tonight. Maybe it's your cadence of speech. Maybe it's your posture. It's been slowly happening for a few weeks and no one can really put their finger on what it is, but it's weird. You've never shouted at your friends like this. It's clear to all of them that Valentina is trying to turn you into someone else, like she did with Bob and "the Sentry".

When everyone's given up and gone to their rooms for the night, you go to find Valentina and tell her you changed your mind.

Big mistake.

You just wanted to take back a little control by having something cool that was your own.

That weird machinery she gave you? Clearly no one had ever tested it out while wearing it the way you're supposed to. It's out of control and excruciating the moment you turn it on.

You aren't sure if you'd even be able to take it off. It looks like it fused with your skin or something horrifying like that. It's unclear what kind of tech this is. What could even do this? You don't want to know.

After that, more than anything, you're angry.

You're angry that Valentina used you as a test subject. You're angry that your friends treated you like a little kid who didn't know any better about her. You're angry that they were actually right. You're angry that you started to trust Valentina and let it ruin everything.

You've become a lot more quiet and irritable, and you just look tired all the time.

You don't think you can fix this.

Yelena is furious that Valentina managed to do this again.

All Yelena's ever wanted for you is to have a better early life than she did. You shouldn't have been used like this. Your vulnerabilities shouldn't have been played on like this.

She feels awful. She knows you had to have felt really isolated to get yourself into this situation in the first place.

She just didn't notice until it was too late. That'll bother her for a while.

Of course, Yelena’s friends can always rely on her when they make a mistake. That’s who she is. That goes for you, too.

You're zoning out a lot more often. Your silence doesn't seem as comfortable, it just seems sad. She always manages to pull you out of it, though.

No matter what you're feeling or thinking, about yourself or others or everything that's happened lately, she wants to make it better. She's pretty good at it, too.

You might not feel like you're in the mood to laugh, but that's too bad. Yelena's natural warmth and humor makes it hard to stay quiet and sad for very long.

Maybe you'll be in a weird mood for a while, but at least for the moment, Yelena saw you start to smile. That's enough for her. For now.

Bucky may have been pretty tough on you the night everything went down, but you won't hear a single "I told you so" from him. He feels too bad, he wouldn't get a sliver of enjoyment from that.

He's focused on fixing everything about this that he can.

You're injured from that equipment you had attached to your arms. Bucky knows the feeling. It took him a long time to see his own arm as anything besides the weapon he didn't ask for.

Luckily, yours isn't permanent like his. He'll help you fix it.

He knows a lot of people. He'll get in contact with some very skilled medical professionals who can repair any physical damage that's been done to you.

He also knows a few people who'd be very interested to know about Valentina's continued shady activity.

If you ever apologize to him for yelling at him that one night, he tells you not to worry about it.

If you never apologize, he doesn't mind. He knows that being wrong about something with such awful consequences is a tough thing to come to terms with. Your relationship will mend anyway. You both understand the other without having to say all that out loud.

Ava was used as a weapon for a long time. Forced to be a soldier when she was way too young.

Luckily, your situation is a little different. You have all of them, the Thunderbolts. Together, you can undo what's been done. You may have learned the hard way, but still.

She sees how you've gotten a bit sullen and reclusive, whereas your silence used to be comfortable and peaceful.

She's seen that attitude before, in herself, when she was just a young lonely girl.

She's just a little easier on you than usual, but for the most part she tries to treat you like she always has. She doesn't want to overwhelm you with special attention or anything.

You spend your usual chill quiet hang out time together. It's very comforting.

John is a very protective person, and the moment he catches on to those little changes in your behavior, he is really bothered by it.

Valentina swooped in during one of his lowest moments, and now he sees she tried to do it again.

That night you were all fighting with each other, John was probably the most mad.

Mad at Valentina, not really you, but it may not have looked like that.

"How do you not understand what’s happening here? You’re smart, but you’re letting her in after everything she’s done to each of us-"

When the dust had settled and you could eventually see what had been going on, you look back and you know that John was just worried about you. Sure, he's really not great at expressing it, but that's what it was.

You're healing physically and mentally, and he'll try to check in like a normal person.

"So. Yanno. How are you feeling? Does your... like, your arm hurt still?"

He always sounds like he's never comforted anyone before and he's just copying what he's seen other people do, but it's sweet anyway.

He regularly peeks his head into your room when the door's open to see how you're doing and to ask if you want to hang out. That's how he shows he's there to listen.

Alexei was the first to notice the little changes in your behavior. At first, he didn’t even know what kind of change it was, but it eventually became pretty clear what had started to happen: You haven’t been yourself lately, and it's because of Valentina.

It's like with Yelena all over again. "The light in your eyes has dimmed"

He did so much for you and was always there when you needed him, but he doesn't see that right now. All he can think to do is blame himself.

He feels like he wasn't present enough. He thinks that if he’d really done enough for you, Valentina wouldn’t have been able to sway you like this.

He's not too good about personal space or "alone time", but sometimes that's what helps. You never question whether or not he cares. He makes that pretty clear.

Bob. How do you think Bob reacted to this?

He finally sees it from the other side. When Valentina had tried to get close to him and win him over, it felt weird, but he was so vulnerable he fell for all of it. The memory makes him feel a little queasy.

Knowing it just happened to you too makes him feel sick to his stomach.

He feels like this is worse because Valentina's experimentations on him, inhumane as they were, left him invincible, whereas you've only got painful injuries to show for it.

Bob is mad.

He's as comforting to you as he can be. You're keeping to yourself even more than usual, so he gives you the space you want, but he's there if you need him.

If you try to reach out, even in a small way, he's there.

He doesn't want to act like anything's wrong. He doesn't want you to think he sees you any differently. It's difficult though, because you have changed. Maybe just a little, and maybe not forever, but it's hard to pretend everything's the same it's always been. You're so sad and withdrawn.

Valentina keeps a bit more distance after this. She may not be intimidated by the rest of the New Avengers, but she is kind of intimidated by Bob. He's a sweetheart, but it's hard for her to forget everything he's capable of and everything he did to NYC like a year ago.

To you, though, he's as sweet as ever.

They're all so worried about you, but this part of your life isn't forever. You trusted the wrong person and let it get between you and the life you've started, but your friends are there to help you.

That's because they 1) love you more than anything and 2) want to help you to live a life they didn't get to live. They all see pieces of themselves in you. They see parts of their past in your current situation. They know what they would've wanted and needed back then.

One day you're all sitting around and talking and nothing feels off anymore. No one notices at first, because everything's natural like it used to be.

One messy argument with some ugly consequences didn't ruin your life. Far from it. Everything will be like it was again, if not stronger, because they saw you when you were low and you all banded together to get through it.

[transmutationisms]

one thing malm mentions in that interview is the idea of 'overshoot'---the capitalist suggestion that we might be able to exceed a goal limit for global average temperature increase, because we'll bring it back down later through technological intervention. malm is rightly sceptical of that idea; i think it's worth keeping in mind that any kind of techno-utopic thinking that promises a miraculous solution to a politically situated problem, at some nebulous point in the future, is more a justification for the status quo than a serious proposal for change.

like, we don't need to worry about public transit because Sometime In The Future we'll have cars that are eco friendly enough for everyone to own one and drive it constantly. it's fine covid is running rampant, we're sure someone somewhere will biomedical engineer a solution to its long-term health effects. worst case scenario we'll just relocate humanity to mars. no need to worry about the structural problems of capitalist healthcare because personal wearables and home genetic testing will replace the old system any day now. we need more scientists to run for public office. we'll engineer green industry any day now, no need for the global north to reduce any consumption patterns.

these are not serious engagements with social or political or even technological problems as they exist; these proposals are somewhere on the spectrum from 'pipe dream' to 'lie' and they give cover for current situations to remain essentially unchanged whilst tech start-ups collect investor money on promises they'll never deliver. if someone has no fucking idea how a proposed technology could come into existence then believing them that it will is just, deeply credulous at best and head-in-sand at worst. it's theranos logic.

[din-miller]

A Little Jive Is Good for You

PAIRING: All Bad Batch Boys x AFAB Reader (gender neutral) no incest/all separate stories

Summary: Reader surprises their partner with a new sex toy called Jive. (It's a wearable g-spot vibrator)

WARNINGS: 18+, sex toy, app controlled sex toy because we fancy here, oral (cunnilingus), fingering, semi public sex (?), tiny bit of angst (sorry echo), thigh fucking, I don't know what phones are called in Star Wars so I'm using device as a placeholder for now, afab, gender neutral reader, all established relationships, tbb headcanons but it's spicy

A/N: I originally wasn't going to write for Crosshair but the setting of the fic didn't work with the others so he made the cut. Congratulations buddy.

Hunter doesn't notice the app at first. It's not until half his Caf is gone, the article he's reading is finished and his thumb swipes back to his home screen that his eyes fall upon the newest icon.

We-vibe

He frowns, never having heard of it before. For a brief second he wonders if he should get Tech to come over and look at it. Make sure it's not a virus or some kind of tracker. But his curiosity gets the best of him. It's probably some kind of prank of Wrecker's. He's done it before. So, Hunter takes his chances and opens the app and he's met with a dark purple background and a bold-all-caps word.

TOYS

Definitely Wrecker's doing.

He hits the play button and it takes him to another purple screen, this time a lighter shade. There's four squares that surround a circle and inside that circle there is a smaller one labelled JIVE.

With a little hesitation Hunter presses on the smaller circle that he's able to move around. He plays with it, swinging it around inside the big circle before moving it to the bottom left square right on top of a little wave symbol.

Three things happen at once. A faint pulsing sound comes from the cockpit followed by a gasp and a wave of arousal – your arousal – hits his nose so hard that his cup falls out of his hand and onto the floor, bouncing a few times as warm Caf spills onto the ship's flooring, but his hands are too busy clenching the table to notice.

His nostrils flair, seeking the smell of your arousal, breathing it in deep inside his lungs and his tongue darts out to taste the air. Sweet and faint, yet it sits on the tip of his tongue and his eyes close, picturing the glistening of your wet pussy, the way your walls flutter around the toy – kriff, what he'd do to have his cock buried deep in your tight cunt.

Hunter breathes out your name, a plea and you're appearing before him naked as the day you were born.

"Ner kar'ta," Hunter swallows, eyes unapologetically locked on your sex, "Look at you, so wet, so beautiful."

You're in front of him now, his head perfectly lined up with your dripping cunt and his fingertips gleefully trail up your thigh stopping just where you ache for his touch.

"Hunter, baby, please!" You beg, desperate and unashamed. He must sense your desperation, because his hand lays flat over your mons pubis and his thumb rests on your outer folds. He doesn't part them, just presses lightly against them.

"I can feel the vibrations," He grunts, eyes falling close, "I can feel the anticipation as it rushes through your body, the need for pressure, for movement against your wet pussy. It calls to me, ner kar'ta."

"Kriff, answer it then!" You growl, pushing his chair away from the table and throwing a leg over his thighs to straddle him. You rock yourself against his clothed sex, seeking friction against the throbbing of your own.

"Very demanding for someone who started this," He reminds you, but his arms wrap around your waist, device forgotten as he helps you move against his cock, "Not complaining though."

You snake a hand down between your bodies to change the vibration with the built in button. This one's stronger and your hips jerk up, separating from Hunter but the clones quick to pull you back down onto his lap.

Slowly, teasingly so, he removes the toy and presses it against your clit with the palm of his hand as his fingers coat themselves in your arousal before sliding into your cunt.

It doesn't take you long to reach your orgasm, in fact it slams into you at full force when Hunter presses against your sweat spot with just the right amount of pressure.

Then his own orgasm stains the blacks he's currently wearing, messy and so fucking hot. He rarely cums in his pants – preferring to do it in or on you – so when he does your ego inflates. At least until Hunter pulls another orgasm out of you.

Echo had figured it was Tech's doing too. His brother is always updating his technology, making sure everything works. He even programmed all the apps and keyboard to be one handed accessible.

Everyone except you and him had gone out for the next few hours, leaving the ship empty and comfortably silent. At least it was silent until Echo's curiosity got the best of him and his thumb started flicking the small circle labelled JIVE around.

He doesn't have heightened senses; he can't hear the toy, can't smell your arousal. It's not until you appear at the cargo holds door way, wide eyes locked onto the device in his hand with a desperate 'please' falling from your lips that he knew the app wasn't Tech's doing.

Echo's heard of apps like this. A way to pleasure your partner hands free. He went down the rabbit hole of sex toys when you and him first became sexually active. A fear of not being able to properly please you with only one hand plagued him night and day until you sat him down and reassured him that he satisfies you plenty.

"Please," You plead once again, crossing your leg over the other one seeking friction against your core as you squeeze your thighs shut, "Echo, kriff, I need more."

Echo's eyes flicker down to your body, clad only in panties, then to the screen in his hand. His thumb gives an experimental slide of the JIVE button and you stumble towards him, a wave of arousal soaking your panties, and without missing a beat you sink into his lap. Echo's dress in just his blacks, his cock straining against the fabric of his pants and the first brush of your sex against his is utter bliss.

His scomp snakes around your waist balancing you on his lap as he awkwardly tries to catch the device in his hand as it slides from his grip, his brain a little too distracted by the whispers of vibration against his cock to have proper coordination to hold the device.

A part of you is begging yourself to move and take off your panties, to free Echo's cock and slide your drenched folds over the wide width of his sex, but as much as you love pussy jobs you can't seem to separate yourself from your husband long enough to take them off.

So instead you unapologetically hump against his clothed cock, moaning when he moans at the feeling of the toy's vibration against his length.

Neither of you last long, which in all honesty is never a disappointment, and thankfully the night is still young and the way your husband is looking at you, you know you'll be sore tomorrow.

Wrecker finds out about the toy by feeling it. You've momentarily forgotten you were wearing it until his fingers found the tail end of the toy as his deft fingers slip into your panties.

Your back is to his chest as he brackets you in with his meaty legs, one hand palming your tit as his hips expertly grind against your ass.

You've spent the day teasing him; dirty flirting, a brief risky flash of your tits – his biggest weakness – just to build up to this moment.

"Aw, mesh'la, did you get a new toy without me?" His fingers blindly feel out the new toy, or at least the part not inside you, until he finds a small raised bump near the end of the toy. His finger settles on the button but doesn't press it, awaiting your consent.

He's always been like that, a big man who will wait hand and knees to get the go ahead. Especially when it comes to sexual activities and new toys. You admire that about him, consent being the key to everything he does, but right now? Right now you want him to hold you against his chest until the vibrations shoot through your core and leave you a sobbing mess.

The need makes you beg without embarrassment, "Press it, kriff, don't tease me!"

The moment the toy activates you're letting out a silent scream, eyes rolling into the back of your head, body arching up and away from Wrecker's chest as the vibrations pulse inside your tight cunt, right snug against your g-spot.

His hand firmly squeezes your tit before pinching your perky nipple, his breath hot against your neck as he gently nibbles against the flesh again and again, leaving marks, claiming what's his.

His finger travels down farther until it reaches his target; your dripping cunt. He coats his finger with your juices before gently guiding it inside you, right behind the back of the toy.

Nothing about Wrecker is small, his fingers are meaty, chunky, and he knows it. With one finger he curls it in into the silicon of the toy, pressing it against your most sensitive area. Your hand shoots out to wrap around his wrists, nails leaving red crested shapes in his flesh and it's all you can do to keep the tears building up at bay.

You can't stop the cry that leaves your mouth as your arousal soaks through your panties and drips onto the mattress below you. Kriff, you didn't even last half a minute before cumming. It's the quickest you've ever finished and you probably should be a little ashamed of how fast it was, but Wrecker's chest vibrates with the loudest moan you've ever heard from him;

"Mesh'la, I'm gonna–,"

"Wait," You shakingly push yourself up farther onto his torso until his cock slides through the opening of your thighs, "Fuck my thighs, baby, let me see you cum."

He groans, needing no further instructions before fucking your thighs, fast. His precum acts like natural lubricant as his cock jerks back and forth, hot and heavy between your thighs.

"Squeeze around my cock, mesh'la." Wrecker grunts breathlessly and you press your thighs together tightly. The toy is still vibrating inside you and you reach down to the built-in button to turn it off, overstimulated.

Wrecker's fingers dig into the flesh of your hips as his release paints your thighs, his cock helplessly twitching between the valley of your legs as he cries out your name.

Once you catch your breath, and can lift a finger, you'll show him the app. Show him how to use it. Maker, you can't wait.

Tech knew right away what the app meant for, his codpiece already becoming too restricting before he even opens the app.

He calls out for you, wanting to see your face as it overcomes with pleasure. Pleasure he's giving you, he's responsible for.

The moment you walk into the room and see his lust filled gaze, app open on his device, you're stripping yourself of your clothing, sitting across from him in the co-pilot's chair, legs spread wide to give him a clear view of your pussy.

He doesn't activate the toy right away, instead he's leaning forward in his chair, eye locked onto your cunt. He's studying the part of the toy he's able to see and you roll your eyes fondly before snapping your fingers together.

His eyes shoot up to yours, swallowing at the blatant need that reflects back at him. It's clear that neither of you will be lasting long. Not this time at least.

"I trust you're smart enough to figure out how to work it." You teasingly trail a hand down your body, ghosting over your sex before retreating back up to your chest to play with your breasts.

"Of course," He huffs, adjusting his goggles, "It's a basic design; clearly fashioned by humans with a basic understanding of technology–,"

With a soft chuckle you bring a hand down to hover over the built in power button, "Then you'd know I can control it with a quick press of the button right here. Really, I don't even need you–oh kriff,"

Your hips jerk up, a surprise moan falling from your lips as the toy buzzes to life inside you and your walls clench around the silicon, "Tech!"

"Too much?"

You shake your head, fingers clenching the arms of your chair, "No, it's good, it feels so good."

Tech hums, eyes once again locked onto your pussy and you know he's silently debating with himself on whether or not to take a holo. You're about to tell him to just take one but all that leaves your mouth is a pathetic whine as the vibrations change to a stronger setting.

Tech's out of his chair and on his knees before you, "I want to taste you."

That's basically all the warning you get before your legs are hooked over his shoulders, his tongue darting out to collect your arousal before spreading it over your clit. He flicks the tip of his tongue over your sex before pulling back, "You're so wet for me."

You nod, eyes rolling back as his mouth returns to your sex, "All you for, Tech. It's all for you."

Crosshair knew instantly that the new app was your doing. You're the only one who knows his passcode. He just didn't know what the app was designed for.

He had ignored it at first, letting most of the day go by before managing to corner Tech and demand his brother tell him what the app was. Of course Tech had simply explained everything about it, but when he went to go turn the toy on Crosshair shoved the barrel of his rifle under the clone's chin. Tech was smart enough to make himself scarce.

Now with the knowledge of what the app was designed for, Crosshair was in control with you willingly at his mercy. He lets you continue your faux innocent act, pretending himself that he hasn't noticed the app.

He'll wait for the opportune moment to arrive. He's a patient man, he's not weak like his brothers. We won't wait on hands and knees for you to come to him and you know that.

The moment comes almost five hours later as he volunteers himself and you to do the supply run Echo and Tech were originally signed too. Hunter had given him a questioning look, obviously wondering why he'd willingly offer to do something he'd usually bitch about doing.

Crosshair had just glared back at his brother and Hunter was smart enough to end any further questions there.

"So," You start, eyeing the man beside you as you walk side by side through the market, "Why us? Echo was relieved to be getting some fresh air, you know. You also hate people, crowds and shopping. Have to admit, I'm a little baffled."

He doesn't look at you but his words are sharp, "You're not an idiot, ner kar'ta."

"I've never claimed to be one, I– oh, you, you wouldn't," You come to a halt, pulling Crosshair with you. Your eyes are wide, full of fear and a building of desperate want, "We're in public, Crosshair."

"Best not make a scene then."

It's not an order, nor a demand, it's a challenge.

One you already know you're going to lose.

But then again this is Crosshair, the man you've spent all day unknowingly giving him a raging hard-on. He's pent up, sexually so, and that's your doing and that doesn't go unpunished.

So it doesn't really come as a surprise that when you're about to cum he turns off the device, denying you of the orgasm you're desperate for.

Because when you do cum, you'll be on your knees, mouth wrapped around his cock. Not here, in a crowded marketplace; not when he can't praise you. Not when he can't taste himself on your lips.

–

Sorry about how roughly Tech's ended. I've never been good at writing cunnilingus. Blow jobs on the other hand I'm a master at but that's mostly because I've spent ten years writing gay porn.