Apple’s Foldable iPhone Is Finally Coming — Here’s What to Expect
After years of rumors, Apple’s first foldable iPhone appears to be approaching the finish line. Supply-chain reports indicate the device has entered mass production, putting Apple on course to unveil its first folding smartphone as early as September alongside its next generation of premium iPhones. The device is expected to use a book-style design that opens into a roughly 7.8-inch display, with a smaller 5.5-inch screen on the outside for everyday phone use. Apple has not officially revealed the device or confirmed its specifications, but reports suggest the company has focused heavily on creating a thinner design and minimizing one of the biggest complaints about foldable phones: the visible crease running through the center of the screen. Those design choices could result in some surprising differences from today’s premium iPhones. The foldable is reportedly expected to use Touch ID built into a side button instead of Face ID, along with two rear cameras rather than the three-camera system found on Apple’s highest-end conventional phones. It is also expected to use a new generation of Apple silicon and a wider interior display designed to make apps, video and multitasking feel closer to using a small tablet. Then there is the price. Analysts and supply-chain reports have consistently placed Apple’s foldable at the very top of the smartphone market, with estimates starting around $2,000 and some projections considerably higher. That would make it one of Apple’s most expensive consumer devices and could initially position the foldable as a premium showcase rather than a replacement for the standard iPhone. Apple is arriving late to a category already populated by Samsung, Google, Motorola and several Chinese manufacturers, but that may work in its favor. Foldable phones have become thinner, tougher and considerably more refined since the earliest models appeared. If Apple can deliver the polished hardware and software experience its customers expect, its first foldable could provide the biggest test yet of whether folding phones are ready to move from an expensive niche into the smartphone mainstream.
Gut Health 101: What You Need to Know to Feel Your Best
Gut health has become one of the biggest topics in wellness, but taking care of your digestive system doesn’t require an elaborate cleanse or a cabinet full of supplements. Much of the conversation centers on the gut microbiome — the enormous community of bacteria and other microorganisms living in the digestive tract that helps break down food, supports immune function and interacts with other systems throughout the body. One of the simplest ways to support a healthy gut is to eat a varied diet rich in fiber. Fruits, vegetables, beans, lentils, whole grains, nuts and seeds provide different types of fiber that help support beneficial gut microbes. Rather than focusing on one supposed “superfood,” regularly eating a variety of plant foods can help provide the microbiome with a broader range of nutrients. Fermented foods can also be part of a gut-friendly diet. Foods such as yogurt with live cultures, kefir, kimchi and sauerkraut contain microorganisms or compounds produced during fermentation. Probiotic supplements, however, are more complicated. Different probiotic strains can have different effects, and a supplement that is useful for one digestive problem may do little for another. For most healthy adults, probiotics shouldn’t automatically be considered necessary simply because they’re marketed for gut health. Everyday habits matter as well. Regular physical activity, adequate sleep, sufficient fluids and managing chronic stress can all support digestive health. Antibiotics can disrupt the gut microbiome, but they are also essential medicines when appropriately prescribed; they should be taken as directed rather than avoided because of concerns about gut bacteria. Highly restrictive diets and “gut detoxes,” meanwhile, can eliminate nutritious foods without addressing the actual cause of digestive symptoms. Occasional bloating or digestive discomfort can happen to anyone, but persistent abdominal pain, significant changes in bowel habits, unexplained weight loss, blood in the stool or symptoms that interfere with everyday life deserve medical attention. Gut health is an evolving area of research, and scientists are still learning how the microbiome affects different aspects of human health. For most people, the best starting point remains remarkably straightforward: eat a varied, fiber-rich diet, stay active, get enough sleep and pay attention when your body tells you something isn’t right.
What Is Emotional Intelligence? Understanding One of Life’s Most Important Skills
You’ve probably heard the term **emotional intelligence** in conversations about leadership, relationships, parenting, or career success. But what does it actually mean—and what makes it such an important skill today? Emotional intelligence has become one of the most valuable human skills. It influences how we respond to challenges, connect with others, make decisions, and navigate everyday life. The good news? It’s a skill that almost anyone can develop. What Is Emotional Intelligence? **Emotional intelligence is the ability to recognize, understand, manage, and respond to emotions—both your own and the emotions of others.** It affects how people communicate, handle stress, resolve conflict, build relationships, and make thoughtful decisions. Unlike IQ, which measures cognitive ability, emotional intelligence focuses on how we understand ourselves and interact with the people around us. Many researchers believe emotional intelligence plays an important role in personal well-being, effective leadership, and long-term success. It isn’t about ignoring emotions or always staying calm. Instead, it’s about recognizing emotions, understanding their influence, and responding in healthy and productive ways. Perhaps most encouraging of all, emotional intelligence is not something you’re simply born with. Like communication, fitness, or learning a new language, it can improve with practice. The Five Building Blocks of Emotional Intelligence While experts describe emotional intelligence in different ways, most agree it includes five core abilities. Self-awareness means recognizing your own emotions and understanding how they influence your thoughts, decisions, and behavior. Self-control is the ability to manage emotions without allowing frustration, anger, or stress to dictate your actions. Motivation involves staying focused on meaningful goals, even when setbacks occur. Empathy is the ability to understand how other people feel and appreciate perspectives different from your own. Social skills help people communicate effectively, build trust, resolve disagreements, and create stronger personal and professional relationships. Together, these skills shape how we interact with the world every day. Why Emotional Intelligence Has Become One of Today’s Most Valuable Skills Modern life moves quickly. Many workplaces depend on teamwork, communication, and adaptability, while digital technology has changed how people interact both professionally and personally. In this environment, technical knowledge alone isn’t always enough. People with strong emotional intelligence are often better equipped to communicate clearly, adapt to change, manage stress, work effectively with others, and lead with confidence. These abilities can strengthen friendships, marriages, families, workplaces, and communities. Signs of Strong Emotional Intelligence Emotionally intelligent people don’t have perfect lives or perfect relationships. They simply tend to respond thoughtfully rather than react impulsively. Some common signs include: Listening without interrupting. Remaining calm during stressful situations. Accepting constructive feedback without becoming defensive. Recognizing when emotions are influencing decisions. Showing genuine curiosity about other people’s perspectives. Admitting mistakes and learning from them. Knowing when to speak—and when to simply listen. Can Emotional Intelligence Be Learned? Absolutely. Research suggests emotional intelligence develops throughout life through experience, self-reflection, and intentional practice. Small daily habits can make a meaningful difference. Taking a moment before responding in frustration, asking thoughtful questions, practicing active listening, or reflecting on your own reactions are all ways to strengthen emotional intelligence over time. Like physical fitness, meaningful progress usually comes through consistency rather than dramatic overnight change. The Bottom Line Emotional intelligence may not appear on a résumé or test score, but it shapes many of the moments that matter most in life. It influences how we communicate, solve problems, support others, and respond when life becomes challenging. While knowledge and technical skills remain important, our ability to understand ourselves, connect with other people, and navigate life’s challenges successfully continues to set us apart. Developing emotional intelligence isn’t about becoming perfect. It’s about becoming more aware, more thoughtful, and more intentional in the way we live, communicate, and build relationships. Those are qualities that can improve nearly every area of life—at home, at work, and in the communities we share.
AI Is Reshaping the Tech Job Market — and Entry-Level Workers Are Feeling It First
Artificial intelligence is moving from a workplace experiment to a force that is actively reshaping who companies hire, which jobs they eliminate, and the skills workers increasingly need to stay competitive. Across the technology industry and beyond, companies are investing heavily in AI while simultaneously rethinking staffing. Microsoft has cut thousands of positions this year while acknowledging that AI is changing how work gets done. General Motors eliminated hundreds of IT jobs in May as it shifted hiring toward workers with skills in AI development, data engineering, cloud systems, analytics, and new AI workflows. The pressure is especially visible at the entry level. A 2026 survey of nearly 1,000 U.S. business leaders found that 21% of companies had already frozen entry-level hiring because of AI, while more expected to reduce junior hiring as the technology becomes capable of handling routine research, coding assistance, customer support, scheduling, and administrative work. But the shift does not mean technology jobs are disappearing across the board. Employer demand remains strong for people who can build, operate, secure, and improve AI systems. Hiring data released this summer showed growing demand for AI-related technical roles even as overall hiring remained much weaker than the number of available positions. That is creating a different kind of technology workforce. Companies increasingly need AI engineers, cybersecurity specialists, data engineers, cloud experts, infrastructure workers, and employees who know how to incorporate AI tools into existing jobs. At the same time, some of the routine work once assigned to junior employees can now be completed faster with AI assistance. For younger workers, that could make the traditional first step into a career harder to reach. Entry-level jobs have historically allowed new employees to learn basic tasks before moving into more advanced roles. If AI absorbs more of that work, companies may eventually have to rethink how they train the experienced workers they will need later. The larger change is becoming difficult to dismiss. Artificial intelligence is no longer simply another product technology companies are selling. It is increasingly influencing how work itself is organized — which skills companies value, which positions they create, and how many people they believe they need to get the job done. ——————– Related: We May Be the Last Generation of Traditional Work
Big Tech’s AI Bet Is Beginning to Pay Off
For nearly two years, the world’s largest technology companies have spent hundreds of billions of dollars building artificial intelligence infrastructure—from massive data centers to advanced AI chips. Investors questioned whether the spending would ever produce meaningful returns. This week’s earnings from Microsoft, Amazon and Alphabet suggest the answer is increasingly becoming yes. All three companies reported strong growth in their cloud businesses, where demand for AI services continues to accelerate. Microsoft’s Azure, Amazon Web Services and Google Cloud all benefited from businesses adopting AI tools and expanding their use of cloud computing, giving investors new confidence that AI is becoming a real driver of revenue rather than just a costly investment. The results signal an important shift on Wall Street. For much of the AI boom, investors focused on how much money companies were spending. Now the emphasis is turning to execution—whether those enormous investments can consistently generate stronger sales, profits and long-term growth. The impact extends beyond Big Tech. The AI buildout is increasing demand for semiconductors, networking equipment, power infrastructure, construction and data centers, creating opportunities across multiple industries as companies race to expand the computing capacity needed to support AI. The Readovia Lens The AI spending story just flipped from a bet to a business. Microsoft, Amazon and Alphabet are beginning to show that years of massive AI investment are translating into real revenue growth—not just ambitious promises on earnings calls. That’s the shift worth watching: capital expenditure is starting to produce measurable returns, and the companies that can prove it will pull away from those still asking investors for patience. Watch the smaller players next. Chipmakers, power providers and data center builders are riding the same wave—and they’ll soon face the same test.
Protein Overload? What Your Body Actually Needs vs. What the Hype Sells
From protein chips and high-protein yogurt to shakes, bars, and powders, America is deep in a protein boom. It’s being marketed as the ultimate health hack — promising to build muscle, boost metabolism, and keep you full longer. But with protein-packed versions of everything lining grocery shelves, a question emerges: how much is too much? The Protein Push There’s no denying protein is essential. It supports muscle repair, hormone production, immune function, and energy. Fitness culture, especially, has pushed high-protein diets as the gold standard — and brands have responded, turning nearly every snack into a muscle-friendly option. But the average adult in the U.S. already gets more than enough protein through regular meals. For most sedentary adults, the Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) is about 0.8 grams per kilogram of body weight — that’s roughly 46 grams a day for women and 56 grams for men. Even active individuals don’t need to double those numbers unless they’re training heavily or bodybuilding. Is There Such a Thing as Too Much? Yes. While your body can handle moderate surpluses, excessive protein intake over time may strain the kidneys, especially in people with underlying health issues. High-protein diets can also crowd out other important nutrients — especially fiber — if they rely heavily on animal sources and supplements. For example, chasing 100+ grams of protein a day through shakes and bars might seem “fitfluencer-approved,” but it’s not necessary for most people. And if it comes at the expense of balanced nutrition, the long-term benefits start to shrink. Final Thought Protein is important — but it’s not a miracle macronutrient. Most people meet their daily needs with regular meals that include a mix of meat, dairy, legumes, eggs, grains, and vegetables. Instead of aiming for “as much as possible,” aim for enough — consistently, and from a variety of sources.
What Doctors Are Noticing About Patients in 2026
Doctors across the U.S. say many patients are arriving at appointments more informed and more thoughtful about their health than in the past, prompting a growing conversation about whether patients are, in fact, becoming smarter in how they approach care. Rather than focusing solely on symptoms or prescriptions, patients are increasingly asking deeper questions about prevention, long-term outcomes, and lifestyle choices. Many reference insights from wearable devices, health apps, or prior research, using that information to guide more meaningful conversations with their providers. Health professionals say this shift reflects broader changes in access to information and personal accountability. For many clinicians, the result has been more collaborative visits, with clearer expectations and shared decision-making around treatment plans. At the same time, doctors emphasize the importance of context. While better questions can lead to better care, not all health information found online is accurate or relevant. Providers increasingly see part of their role as helping patients interpret data and separate helpful insights from misinformation. The Readovia Lens The evolving dynamic between doctors and patients points to a broader shift toward proactive wellness rather than reactive care. As health tools and information become more accessible, the patient-provider relationship is increasingly built on partnership, trust, and informed dialogue.
Small Habits, Big Life: 7 Tiny Tweaks That Add Up
We often chase big breakthroughs and overnight makeovers. But in reality, it’s the small, consistent habits—barely noticeable at first—that slowly and quietly change everything. From your health to your mindset, these simple shifts create a ripple effect that, over time, can completely upgrade your life. Here are seven tiny habits that pack a quiet punch: 1. Make Your Bed Every Morning It sounds cliché, but this one-minute task signals order and control. It’s a small “win” that starts your day with momentum, and it subtly reminds your brain that you’re in charge—even if everything else feels chaotic. 2. Drink a Glass of Water Before Coffee Before you reach for caffeine, give your body what it actually needs. This single habit helps with digestion, brain clarity, and even reduces how much coffee you end up drinking. 3. Take a 10-Minute Walk or Run Without Your Phone Even if it’s just around the block, this unplugged stroll acts as a mental reset. No scrolling. No podcasts. Just you, the air, and your thoughts. It boosts creativity and calms your nervous system. 4. Write Down One Thing You’re Grateful For It takes less than 30 seconds. And it rewires your brain to see what’s working, rather than obsessing over what’s not. It’s tiny, but it adds up. 5. Prep Tomorrow’s Outfit, Bag, and To-Do List Tonight You’ll start your next day less rushed and more composed. A few minutes of preparation saves you time, stress, and a whole lot of “Where are my keys?!” 6. Compliment Someone Genuine, small kindnesses ripple far beyond the moment. Compliment someone’s shoes, their smile, their good idea in a meeting. It makes them feel seen—and makes you feel good, too. 7. Set a Phone Curfew Even just 30 minutes before bed. No doomscrolling. No late-night emails. Give your mind space to decompress so you can actually rest. Your sleep—and your sanity—will thank you. These habits won’t change your life overnight. But they will change your days. And over time, those better days add up. What do you think? Which of these small habits do you already do—or plan to try this week?
How to Cultivate a Growth Mindset for Personal and Professional Success
A growth mindset is the belief that abilities and intelligence can be developed over time through dedication, hard work, and learning. This mindset is crucial for overcoming challenges and striving for success in both personal and professional life. Cultivating a growth mindset involves adopting certain habits and attitudes that foster continuous self-improvement. In this article, we’ll explore simple, effective ways to embrace a growth mindset and how it can transform the way you approach life. Embrace Challenges People with a growth mindset see challenges as opportunities for growth rather than obstacles. When faced with difficulties, instead of avoiding them, they take proactive steps to overcome them. To develop this mindset, start by tackling problems head-on and viewing them as learning experiences. Learn from Criticism Constructive feedback is a powerful tool for self-improvement. A growth mindset encourages you to view criticism not as a personal attack but as an opportunity to improve. Listen carefully to feedback, reflect on it, and apply it to enhance your skills. Focus on Effort Over Results Instead of solely focusing on outcomes, celebrate the effort you put into achieving your goals. By valuing the process and progress, you reinforce the belief that success comes from dedication and persistence. Set small milestones along the way to maintain motivation. Adopt a Positive Self-Talk Routine Your internal dialogue plays a significant role in shaping your mindset. Replace self-doubt and negative thoughts with empowering affirmations. For example, instead of thinking, “I’m terrible at this,” try, “I may not be good at this yet, but I’m improving with practice.” Learn Continuously One of the most important aspects of a growth mindset is a commitment to lifelong learning. Make it a habit to seek out new knowledge, acquire new skills, and stay curious. This could involve reading, taking courses, or finding new ways to challenge yourself both professionally and personally. Surround Yourself with a Supportive Network Having a strong support system is essential for growth. Surround yourself with people who encourage your progress, offer helpful feedback, and motivate you to push beyond your limits. Join communities or groups that share your interests and goals. The Takeaway Cultivating a growth mindset is a journey that can transform your approach to both personal challenges and professional goals. By embracing challenges, learning from feedback, and maintaining a positive mindset, you unlock the potential for growth in every area of life. Keep pushing forward, and remember—your abilities are not fixed, and the best version of yourself is always just around the corner. The Author
Youth Mental Health and Drug Use Show Encouraging Improvement
Mental health and substance-use trends among American teenagers improved across several important measures, according to newly released federal data collected in 2025. The 2025 National Survey on Drug Use and Health found that fewer adolescents ages 12 to 17 reported using tobacco, alcohol or marijuana. Binge drinking also declined, while fewer teenagers said they had begun drinking, vaping or using marijuana during the previous year. The findings also pointed to progress in youth mental health. Rates of major depressive episodes fell among adolescents, along with the percentages reporting serious thoughts of suicide, making a suicide plan or attempting suicide. Young adults ages 18 to 25 experienced similar improvements. The results do not mean the youth mental health crisis has ended. Nearly one in five adolescents reported moderate or severe anxiety symptoms during the two weeks before they were surveyed, almost three times the rate among adults. Access to care also remains a serious challenge. Nearly 45 million Americans were estimated to have a substance-use disorder, while more than 80% of those who needed treatment did not receive it. The newly released findings suggest that young people may be moving in a healthier direction after years of troubling trends, but millions of families are still struggling to find adequate mental health and addiction support.