How we rate
Three ratings on every story
So you know in two seconds whether to care. We rate the news itself, never the company or the people in it.
Tide: how much it affects you
- Ripple: Interesting, but changes nothing for you yet.
- Wave: Worth knowing: it will shape what you use.
- Tsunami: Changes things now.
Sci-fi: how futuristic it sounds
From 1 (an everyday update, like a price change) to 10 (straight out of a movie). Each score comes with one line on why.
7/10: robots practicing in imaginary kitchens.
Reality: how far along it is
- Lab: Research or a prototype: nothing to try yet.
- Demo: Announced or shown, not available yet.
- Shipping: Reaching some customers, businesses or regions.
- In your hands: Anyone can use or buy it today.
For a deal, a lawsuit or a new rule, we rate the technology it's about.
Ratings are our editors' judgment, set with each story. Spotted one that seems off? Tell us.