reMarkable has introduced the Paper Pro, a new entry-level digital writing slate that the company says is consciously designed to appeal more to corporate buyers. The device, which starts at $579, is available for pre-order starting today.

The Paper Pro features a 10.3-inch monochrome E Ink display with a resolution of 1872 x 1404 pixels and 226 PPI. It includes a new Marker stylus that requires no charging and offers a paper-like writing experience with low latency. The device runs on a custom Linux-based operating system and provides cloud synchronization for notes and documents.

reMarkable has positioned the Paper Pro as a tool for professionals who need to take handwritten notes, annotate documents, and organize their work digitally. The company emphasizes the device's ability to replace paper notebooks and printed documents, reducing clutter and improving productivity.

Compared to the higher-end reMarkable 2, the Paper Pro lacks some features such as a front light and a higher-resolution display. However, it retains the core writing and reading capabilities that have made reMarkable devices popular among note-takers and academics.

The Paper Pro is available in a single configuration with 8GB of storage. It comes with the Marker stylus and a USB-C cable for charging and data transfer. The device measures 187 x 246 x 4.7 mm and weighs 403 grams.

reMarkable is targeting corporate buyers with the Paper Pro, offering volume discounts and integration with enterprise cloud services. The company also provides a 30-day money-back guarantee and a one-year warranty.

The Paper Pro is available for pre-order in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and select European countries. Shipping is expected to begin in late November. The device is priced at $579, with the Marker stylus included.

A security researcher has accused Google Chrome of downloading a 4GB artificial intelligence model file without obtaining user permission. The allegation centers on a file associated with the browser's integrated AI capabilities, which the researcher claims is automatically fetched in the background. The download reportedly occurs even when users have not opted into any AI features, raising concerns about data usage and privacy.

The file in question is part of Chrome's built-in AI functionality, which Google has been gradually expanding. The researcher, who shared findings on social media, stated that the download happens without clear notification or consent. This has sparked debate about transparency in how browsers handle large background downloads, particularly for features that may not be immediately obvious to users.

Google has not yet issued an official response to the specific claim, but the company has previously emphasized user control over AI features. Chrome includes a toggle in its settings that allows users to disable the AI model download. The toggle is located under the "Privacy and security" section, labeled as "Allow AI-powered features." Disabling this option prevents the browser from downloading or using the AI model.

The 4GB file size is notable, as it represents a significant amount of data for a background download. For users with limited bandwidth or data caps, such an automatic download could lead to unexpected charges or slowed connections. The researcher highlighted that the download occurs without a clear prompt, which may violate user expectations around consent.

Chrome's AI features include capabilities like smart text selection, tab organization, and other machine learning-driven tools. These features are designed to enhance browsing efficiency, but their automatic activation has drawn criticism. The toggle provides a straightforward way for users to opt out, but critics argue that the default behavior should require explicit consent.

The incident adds to ongoing discussions about how tech companies deploy AI features. As browsers and operating systems increasingly integrate AI, questions about user agency and data handling become more pressing. The researcher's findings underscore the need for clearer communication about what software does in the background.

For now, users concerned about the download can navigate to Chrome's settings and disable the AI toggle. This action will stop the current download and prevent future ones. The setting is available in the latest stable version of Chrome across desktop and mobile platforms. Google has not indicated any plans to change the default behavior.

The researcher's report has prompted some users to check their own Chrome installations for the file. The AI model is stored locally and can be deleted manually if the toggle is turned off. However, without the toggle disabled, Chrome may re-download the file after updates or cache clearing.

As of now, Google has not commented on whether the download process will be revised. The company typically addresses such concerns through updates or documentation. Users seeking more information can refer to Chrome's help pages on AI features, which describe the toggle and its effects.

Meta is accelerating its wearable technology strategy with plans to release four distinct smart glasses models by 2026, according to information from recent leaks. The company is also initiating tests on an artificial intelligence-powered necklace, signaling a broader push into AI-driven accessories. These moves come as Meta seeks to expand its footprint in the wearable market while addressing the substantial financial losses incurred by its Reality Labs division.

The leaked roadmap details a diverse lineup of smart glasses designed for different user segments. One model is expected to be a premium version featuring advanced augmented reality capabilities, while another targets a more affordable price point to attract mainstream consumers. A third model is reportedly focused on fitness and health tracking, integrating sensors for activity monitoring. The fourth model is said to emphasize connectivity and hands-free assistance, leveraging Meta's AI assistant.

The AI necklace, currently in testing, is described as a standalone wearable that can interact with users through voice commands and provide contextual information. It is designed to work seamlessly with Meta's ecosystem of devices, including the smart glasses, and may eventually replace some smartphone functions. The necklace is expected to feature a microphone, speaker, and possibly a camera for visual recognition tasks.

Meta's aggressive timeline aims to capitalize on the growing interest in smart eyewear, a category that has seen renewed attention following the success of Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses. The company hopes that a broader range of options will help it capture different market segments and increase adoption rates. Industry analysts note that Meta's strategy mirrors its approach in the virtual reality space, where it offers multiple headset models at various price points.

The financial pressure on Meta's Reality Labs division, which reported significant operating losses in recent quarters, is a key driver behind this expansion. By diversifying its wearable product line, Meta aims to generate new revenue streams and reduce its reliance on advertising income. The company has invested heavily in augmented and virtual reality technologies, viewing them as the next major computing platform.

Pricing details for the upcoming smart glasses have not been disclosed, but sources suggest the affordable model could start around $299, while the premium AR version may exceed $1,000. The AI necklace is expected to be priced competitively to encourage widespread adoption. Meta plans to launch the first new smart glasses model in early 2025, with subsequent releases staggered through 2026.

Availability will initially focus on the United States and select European markets, with a broader global rollout planned for later phases. Meta is also working with eyewear partners to ensure prescription lens options and style variations. The company has not confirmed any of the leaked details, but internal documents and supply chain reports support the outlined roadmap.

Meta's official statement on the matter is expected later this year, likely coinciding with the company's annual Connect conference. The first new smart glasses model is scheduled to go on sale in the first quarter of 2025.

Meta is reportedly developing a new AI-powered wearable device in the form of a pendant, according to sources familiar with the matter. The company, which has been investing heavily in artificial intelligence and augmented reality, is exploring hardware that could serve as a smart assistant. The pendant is said to be designed to interact with users through voice commands and potentially offer visual feedback via a built-in camera or display.

The device is still in the early stages of development, and Meta has not publicly confirmed its existence. The pendant is expected to leverage Meta's AI capabilities, including natural language processing and computer vision, to assist users with tasks such as messaging, navigation, and information retrieval. It could also integrate with Meta's existing ecosystem of apps and services, including WhatsApp, Instagram, and Facebook.

This move aligns with Meta's broader strategy to expand beyond smartphones and into new form factors for computing. The company has already released the Ray-Ban Stories smart glasses and is working on advanced AR glasses. The pendant could serve as a more discreet and always-available AI companion, similar to how Amazon's Echo Frames or Apple's AirPods function.

However, the project faces significant challenges, including battery life, processing power, and user privacy concerns. The pendant would need to be lightweight and comfortable to wear for extended periods while providing reliable AI assistance. Meta will also need to address how the device handles data collection and user consent, especially given the company's history with privacy issues.

Meta has not announced a timeline for the pendant's release, and it remains unclear whether the product will ever reach the market. The company is known for experimenting with various hardware concepts, many of which never see a commercial launch. For now, the pendant is one of several AI hardware projects under development at Meta.

If released, the pendant would compete with other AI wearables like the Humane AI Pin and the Rabbit R1, which aim to replace smartphones for certain tasks. Meta's advantage could lie in its vast user base and integration with popular social platforms, but the company will need to differentiate its offering in a crowded and uncertain market.

Meta declined to comment on the report. The company's next major hardware event is expected later this year, where it may provide updates on its AI and wearable initiatives.