YETI Roadie 24 2.0: My Week-Long Road Trip Test and Why It Beats a Fridge

A Road Trip Adventure with the YETI Roadie 24 2.0

Road trips have always been a favorite way to explore new places and create lasting memories. When my son suggested a trip around Wales instead of heading to Spain for his summer break, I couldn’t resist the idea. It wasn’t just about bonding with my pre-teen, but also an opportunity to test out some camping gear. The highlight of my list was the YETI Roadie 24 2.0, a newer version of the original Roadie 24 that had been on the market for about five years.

The Roadie 24 2.0 retains the same 24-quart capacity as its predecessor but introduces a few key improvements. It now features a BestDam Drain Plug, making it easier to remove water without disturbing the contents. There's also a DoubleDuty Strap that replaces the previous HeftyHauler handle. Additionally, it’s Lockport compatible, allowing users to attach YETI’s Lockport Bottle Opener, which is sold separately. The original Roadie 24 has since been phased out, so I wanted to update my recommendations for the best YETI coolers with this new model.

Finding the Right Size for Camping

I already own the YETI Roadie 32, but its larger size made it impractical for this particular trip. My car’s boot space was limited, and I needed something smaller that could accommodate three people along with all the essentials like family tents, sleeping bags, camping mats, stoves, backpacks, and more. The Roadie 24 2.0 proved to be the perfect fit.

It's tall enough to hold large bottles upright, and only a 5-pound bag of ice is needed to fill the gaps between items. We packed everything from bacon and eggs to soft drinks and butter, and they all survived the trip. The construction of YETI coolers is over-engineered, using a rotomolded process that makes them incredibly tough and keeps ice colder for longer. This means you can drop or rough-handle them without worrying about damage.

During our trip, the cooler was frequently moved in and out of the car and stored directly on the ground. Despite this, it arrived home looking the same as when we left, except for a few stickers I added along the way. I found it amusing that there are very few location-specific stickers available in the UK, which made me a bit sad.

Practical Features That Make a Difference

One of the standout features of the Roadie 24 2.0 is the BestDam Drain Plug. I used it constantly throughout the trip to drain icy water from the bottom of the cooler without needing to unload its contents. The drain is perfectly positioned, unlike on the Roadie 32, allowing you to let out water without tipping the cooler.

The DoubleDuty Strap is another improvement, though it has its pros and cons. It’s comfortable enough to wear on the shoulder, but it often unclips when not in use. Before picking up the cooler, it’s essential to check both connection points, as the force of lifting it could cause it to slip.

Carrying the Roadie 24 2.0 on your shoulder might be challenging for some. It can hold 26 pounds of ice, and the cooler itself weighs 12.8 pounds, requiring decent core strength to move around. I found it manageable, but I’m 6’1” and in reasonably good shape. You can also grab it by the side using the two integrated LipGrip handles, but it’s not designed for two-person carry like the hinged handles on the Tundra range. Plus, there are no wheels, so shoulder carrying is the way to go.

Small Wins with Big Impact

The Roadie 24 2.0 also includes the Quicklatch system, which allows one-handed opening and closing. This feature is perfect for handing out drinks around the campfire. I also appreciated the Barefoot non-slip feet, which made the cooler much more stable when standing.

While the Roadie 24 2.0 didn’t keep the ice completely frozen for the entire trip, none of the food spoiled. We topped up the ice twice during our five-day trip to reduce air gaps, and everything inside stayed ice-cold throughout.

Overall, the YETI Roadie 24 2.0 is an extremely capable cooler, just as tough and resilient as any other YETI product. If you have a small car and a family, and you're happy to pack only the perishables you’ll need for the next couple of days, I’d absolutely recommend it. The Roadie 24 2.0 is available at YETI US, YETI UK, and YETI AU for a recommended price of $250/ £225/ AU$350.

More WA Schools Ban Cellphones. What About Tri-Cities?

The Impact of Restricting Cellphone Use in Classrooms

As students and teachers return to class for the 2025-26 school year, school leaders across Tri-City are reporting that limiting cellphone use in classrooms has proven to be a successful approach. This move is part of a broader trend aimed at reducing distractions and improving student focus.

Washington Superintendent Chris Reykdal shared findings from a spring survey of school districts across Washington, indicating that 75% of them will have policies in place when students return this year. Approximately half of these policies restrict device use during instructional time only, while a third completely bans students from using their phones from the first to the last school bell.

A year ago, Reykdal encouraged the state's 295 school districts to develop their own policies to reduce distractions during teaching time. Research has shown that removing cellphones can help improve student concentration, enhance learning, and support better mental and physical health by reducing pressure from social media.

At Richland High School, Principal Nicole Anderson highlighted the benefits of a policy that prohibits "personal electronic communication devices" during class time. She noted that students are now able to engage in more candid, focused, and productive discussions because they are not worried about being photographed or recorded. This sense of safety has allowed students to be themselves.

The Richland School Board implemented a comprehensive policy in November 2024 after pilot projects at Richland and Hanford high schools, as well as Enterprise and Carmichael middle schools, began in the 2024-25 school year. Elementary and middle school students in Richland are required to keep their cellphones turned off and in their backpacks throughout the entire school day, including during lunch and in the hallways. Similar policies are in place for high schools, middle schools, and elementary schools in the Pasco School District.

In the Kennewick School District, a policy has been in effect since 2022 that restricts all students, from prekindergarten to 12th grade, from accessing or using their phones during class time unless permission is granted by a teacher. This policy also addresses issues such as cyberbullying, harassment, unauthorized filming, academic dishonesty, and hacking.

National Trends and Legislative Efforts

Public schools across the United States have increasingly cracked down on cellphone use as research continues to show a link between increased usage and higher levels of anxiety, bullying, depression, and distraction. At least 31 states and Washington, D.C., require school districts to restrict students' use of personal devices in some form, according to an article tracking legislation from Education Week.

Only four states—Florida, Louisiana, South Carolina, and Utah—require all districts to prohibit any and all use of personal devices during the school day. While Washington state currently allows individual districts to make their own decisions, a bipartisan group of lawmakers introduced legislation earlier this year that would have required districts to adopt some level of restriction during instructional hours before the 2026-27 school year. Although the bill failed to gain traction, it aimed to create model policies for districts to reference.

Teacher Support and Student Resistance

The movement to limit digital devices in classrooms has largely been driven by teachers, who find it beneficial for student engagement and learning. A 2024 Pew Research Center survey found that nearly 70% of Americans support cellphone bans in class, with 36% supporting all-day bans.

However, young students have shown resistance to changes in their media consumption habits. A 2023 Surgeon General’s report indicated that nearly 95% of students aged 13-17 use social media apps like TikTok, Snapchat, and Instagram “almost constantly.”

Mike Johnson, principal at Hanford High School, noted that both schools recognized the issue of phones creating distractions for students. Teachers eventually worked together to implement policies that had an immediate impact. Students understood the consequences of having their devices confiscated, and many found it to be a relief, allowing them to focus more on classroom instruction and peer interactions.

Johnson leaves it up to teachers on how to enforce the policy, with most requiring students to store devices in their backpacks, while some lock them in cubbies. He emphasized that if a phone is on a student’s body, it remains a constant distraction.

Top AI Stock Set for a Bull Market Surge

The Rise of an AI Powerhouse

In today's rapidly evolving technological landscape, artificial intelligence (AI) is no longer a futuristic concept—it's a driving force behind innovation and economic growth. Among the many companies harnessing the power of AI, one stands out as a dominant player with a vast market presence and a comprehensive approach to AI development. This company isn't just involved in AI; it's deeply embedded in every layer of the technology, from infrastructure to end-user applications.

A Comprehensive AI Strategy

This internet giant has made significant strides in the AI space by covering all critical areas. At the core, it develops its own specialized hardware, known as Tensor Processing Units (TPUs), which are essential for training and running AI models. These TPUs provide the foundational infrastructure that supports advanced AI capabilities. While companies like Nvidia dominate this sector, this company benefits from being a major customer, ensuring it stays at the forefront of AI advancements.

Moving up the stack, the company leads in cloud platforms. Its Google Cloud Platform (GCP) has shown impressive growth, with a 32% year-over-year revenue increase and an operating margin of 21%. GCP enables businesses to build their own AI applications, and according to CEO Sundar Pichai, nearly all Gen AI unicorns utilize Google Cloud.

At the user level, the company has a wide array of internet properties that connect with billions of users. Products like Gmail, Maps, YouTube, Android, and Chrome are already integrating AI through tools like Gemini. As AI continues to enhance user experiences, these services will only become more valuable over time.

A Strong Market Position

With operations spanning infrastructure, platform, and end-user levels, the company has established itself as a leader in AI. Despite concerns about AI's impact on traditional segments like search, the company has shown resilience. Search revenue increased by 12% in the latest quarter, and AI Mode has over 100 million monthly active users in the U.S. and India.

Why Now?

Despite its strong position, the company's stock is currently trading at a price-to-earnings ratio of 21.3, making it the cheapest among the "Magnificent Seven" stocks. Shares are also trading at a 16% discount compared to the overall S&P 500. However, the market may not be fully recognizing the company's potential. Ongoing regulatory challenges, such as the Department of Justice ruling against Google's monopoly in online search, have created uncertainty. Additionally, investors are concerned about how AI could affect user engagement with the company's internet properties.

Future Outlook

Analysts are optimistic about the company's future. According to Wall Street consensus estimates, revenue and earnings per share are expected to grow at compound annual rates of 11.6% and 14.3%, respectively, between 2024 and 2027. This growth, combined with potential valuation upside, makes the company a compelling investment opportunity.

Investment Considerations

Before investing, it's important to consider various factors. While the company has a strong track record, there are always risks involved. Some analysts may not recommend it, but others see significant potential. For those looking for high-growth opportunities, the company could be a solid choice.

Conclusion

As AI continues to shape the future, companies that can adapt and lead in this space will likely reap substantial rewards. This internet giant has positioned itself well across all levels of AI, offering a unique blend of infrastructure, platform, and user-centric solutions. With a strong financial foundation and a clear vision, it's poised for continued success in the AI-driven economy.

TrueMoney Myanmar Partners with AYA Pay for Thai Remittances

Enhancing Financial Inclusion Through Strategic Partnerships

TrueMoney Myanmar, a leading player in the digital financial services sector, has formed a significant partnership with AYA Pay Mobile Wallet. This collaboration aims to revolutionize the way money is transferred between Thailand and Myanmar. The new remittance service offers users a seamless and cost-effective way to send funds across borders.

The initiative allows customers in Thailand to transfer money from their TrueMoney Wallet to an AYA Pay Wallet in Myanmar. This means that individuals can now easily support their families or friends back home without the burden of high fees or complicated procedures. The recipients in Myanmar will also not face any charges when they cash out the funds, making the process even more appealing.

Ko Tun Tun Linn, the country managing director of TrueMoney Myanmar, emphasized the company's commitment to leveraging fintech innovation to improve financial inclusion. He stated that this partnership with AYA Pay ensures that hardworking Myanmar nationals in Thailand can support their loved ones without worrying about the costs associated with traditional remittance methods. Together, the companies are working to make cross-border remittances faster, safer, and more affordable for everyone involved.

Jasmine Thazin Aung, CEO of AYA Bank, highlighted the importance of this partnership from the perspective of the end-users. She mentioned that the service goes beyond just transferring money; it provides a sense of trust, speed, and peace of mind for the recipients. For many, these transfers represent more than just financial support—they symbolize care and connection. By integrating AYA Pay with TrueMoney’s cross-border platform, the banks are not only enabling transactions but also fostering a deeper sense of community through technology.

This collaboration aligns with broader trends in the payments industry, where digital solutions are increasingly being adopted to enhance user experiences. In a separate development, Worldpay expanded its operations in Thailand by adding domestic acquiring capabilities. This move reflects the growing demand for efficient and secure payment solutions within the region.

The partnership between TrueMoney Myanmar and AYA Pay is a testament to the power of collaboration in driving financial innovation. By combining their strengths, both companies are creating a more inclusive and accessible financial ecosystem. This is particularly important for communities that have historically faced barriers to accessing traditional banking services.

In addition to the benefits for individual users, this partnership also contributes to the overall economic growth of both countries. By facilitating smoother and more affordable remittances, it helps to support households and stimulate local economies. As more people gain access to reliable financial tools, the potential for economic empowerment increases significantly.

The success of this initiative underscores the importance of continued investment in digital financial services. As technology continues to evolve, so too must the strategies employed by financial institutions. By staying ahead of the curve and embracing innovative solutions, companies like TrueMoney and AYA Pay are setting a new standard for what is possible in the world of cross-border finance.

Ultimately, the collaboration between TrueMoney Myanmar and AYA Pay represents a step forward in the journey toward a more connected and financially inclusive world. It demonstrates how partnerships can drive meaningful change and create value for all stakeholders involved. As more companies follow suit, the future of financial services looks brighter and more promising than ever before.

Cosmo JrTrack 5 Smartwatch for Kids — 50% Off! Spark Tech Interest Early!

Why the Cosmo JrTrack 5 Smartwatch is a Must-Have for Kids

When it comes to introducing children to technology, there are many options available. While phone deals and tablet deals often come to mind, smartwatches can also play a significant role in helping kids develop an early interest in tech. Among the many options on the market, the Cosmo JrTrack 5 stands out as a top choice for parents looking for a safe, feature-rich wearable device for their children.

This smartwatch is designed with kids in mind, offering a range of functions that not only entertain but also educate. It features a kid-friendly design, making it comfortable for daily wear. The device has an IP68 rating, which means it can withstand water exposure up to a depth of 5 feet. This makes it ideal for active children who may be playing outside or near water. The battery life is impressive, lasting a full day on a single charge, ensuring that kids can use it without constant interruptions for recharging.

In addition to its durability, the Cosmo JrTrack 5 includes a step counter, encouraging kids to stay active and build healthy habits from an early age. Customization options allow children to personalize their smartwatch with different bands, wallpapers, and ringtones, making it a reflection of their unique personality. The device even comes with a 2MP front-facing camera, enabling kids to capture photos and videos of their favorite moments.

Safety is a key concern for parents, and the Cosmo JrTrack 5 addresses this with several important features. If a child finds themselves in a difficult situation, they can activate the SOS alert function or initiate an emergency call to 911. These features provide peace of mind for parents, knowing that their child can reach out for help when needed.

Features That Benefit Parents

While the Cosmo JrTrack 5 is designed for kids, it also offers valuable tools for parents. The HaloGPS technology powers the Active Tracking mode, allowing parents to monitor their child’s real-time location. This feature is especially useful for keeping track of where kids are when they’re out and about.

The Focus mode is another helpful feature that limits distractions by restricting certain activities on the smartwatch. Through the Parent Insights Dashboard on a parent’s smartphone, users can review their child’s texting activity with approved contacts and analyze device usage data. This gives parents greater control over how their child interacts with technology.

The Cosmo JrTrack 5 pairs with any smartphone running iOS or Android via Bluetooth using the Cosmo Mission Control app. This app is available for download from the respective app stores, making it easy for parents to set up and manage the device.

Additional Features and Connectivity

One of the standout features of the Cosmo JrTrack 5 is its own app store, known as the Cosmo App Station. This platform allows parents to download a variety of kid-safe apps directly to the smartwatch. The selection includes apps across multiple categories, such as music (Spotify and Spotify Kids), health and wellness (Calm and GoNoodle), and productivity and learning (Simple Checklist and The Week Junior). There are also numerous games available, along with standard apps like calculator, weather, and alarms.

For connectivity, the Cosmo JrTrack 5 uses eSIM technology, providing 4G LTE access. This allows for seamless integration into the Cosmo Mobile network, which covers the US, Canada, and Mexico. Prepaid plans start at $10 per month, while monthly plans cost $18 per month. All plans come with a 30-day money-back guarantee, giving parents the flexibility to cancel within 30 days of activation if needed.

A Great Investment for Families

With its combination of safety, functionality, and affordability, the Cosmo JrTrack 5 is an excellent choice for families looking to introduce their children to wearable technology. Currently, the device is available at a 50% discount, reducing the price from $150 to $75. However, this offer may not last forever, so it’s a good idea to act quickly if you're interested in purchasing one.

The Cosmo JrTrack 5 is more than just a smartwatch—it's a tool that helps kids develop independence, confidence, and a positive relationship with technology. With its wide range of features and benefits, it's no wonder why it's becoming a popular choice among parents. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to get a high-quality smartwatch at a discounted price.

Best Photo and Video Editing Software? You Decide!

Overview of the Sweepstakes

The Readers' Choice Sweepstakes offers an exciting opportunity for individuals to participate in a variety of surveys, including those focused on photo and video editing software and apps. Each completed survey is a chance to win a $250 Amazon gift card, making it a valuable incentive for those interested in technology and digital tools.

Eligibility Requirements

To be eligible for the sweepstakes, participants must be at least 18 years old and legal residents of one of the 50 United States or the District of Columbia. This ensures that all entrants are adults who can legally participate in such promotions. Additionally, previous winners of any sweepstakes sponsored by the organizer during the nine months prior to the selection date are not eligible. Employees, consultants, and interns of the sponsor or affiliated organizations within the past six months are also excluded from participation.

Immediate family members and household members of these employees are not eligible either. This includes parents, step-parents, children, siblings, spouses, and others who share a residence with an employee. These restrictions aim to ensure fairness and prevent conflicts of interest.

How to Enter

There are two methods to enter the sweepstakes: online survey or mail entry.

Survey Entry: Participants can complete the online survey on the designated page during the sweepstakes period. This method is convenient and accessible for most users.

Mail Entry: For those preferring a traditional approach, a 3" x 5" card can be used to submit personal details such as name, address, city, state, zip code, phone number, and email address. Entries must be postmarked by September 22, 2025, and received by September 29, 2025. Only one entry per person is allowed, regardless of the method used.

Prize Details

One winner will receive a $250 Amazon.com gift code via email. The prize is non-transferable and cannot be substituted for cash. If the prize cannot be awarded due to unforeseen circumstances, a substitute prize of equal or greater value may be provided. However, if the prize remains unclaimed, it may not be re-awarded.

Winner Selection and Notification

Winners will be selected through a random drawing on or about October 7, 2025. The winner will be notified via email using the contact information provided during entry. They must respond within seven days of notification. The odds of winning depend on the number of eligible entries received.

Acceptance and Delivery of the Prize

The winner will need to verify their address and may be required to sign documents such as an affidavit of eligibility, liability release, and publicity release. If the documents are not returned within the specified time, an alternate winner may be selected. The prize will be shipped within seven days of receiving the signed documents. Winners are responsible for any taxes or fees associated with the prize.

Additional Rules and Disclaimers

By entering the sweepstakes, participants agree to the terms outlined in the official rules. This includes granting the sponsor permission to use their name, city, state, email address, and other information for advertising and publicity purposes. Entrants also consent to receive future communications from the sponsor.

The sweepstakes is void where prohibited by law. All submissions become the property of the sponsor and will not be acknowledged or returned. The prize is provided "as is" without further warranty. The sponsor disclaims all warranties, express or implied, including but not limited to the implied warranties of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose.

Limitation of Liability

Participants release and hold harmless the sponsor and its affiliates from any claims, actions, injuries, losses, damages, liabilities, and obligations arising from the sweepstakes or the use of the prize. Any disputes will be resolved individually in a court located in New York, New York, and participants waive the right to a trial by jury.

Privacy and Social Media

Information collected from entrants is subject to the sponsor's privacy policy. The sweepstakes may be featured on social media platforms, but it is not sponsored, endorsed, or associated with these platforms. Participants acknowledge that these platforms are not liable for any claims or damages related to the sweepstakes.

Winner List

After the selection date, a list of winners can be obtained by sending a stamped, self-addressed envelope to the sponsor's address. By entering the sweepstakes, participants agree to all the rules and conditions outlined in the official rules.

Scientists Decode the Mind's Whisper. The Impact Is Extraordinary.

The Evolution of Brain-Computer Interfaces

Neurodegenerative diseases and motor disabilities have left many individuals unable to communicate effectively. However, recent advancements in technology offer a promising solution. A developing technique that combines brain-computer interfaces (BCIs) with AI-powered decoders is making strides in helping those who have lost the ability to speak. By interpreting neural activity in the brain’s motor cortex, this technology has the potential to give a voice to the voiceless.

Pioneering Research at Stanford

For several years, the Neural Prosthetics Translational Laboratory at Stanford, led by co-director Frank Willett, has been working on translating what was once considered untranslatable. In 2021, the laboratory unveiled a BCI capable of converting thoughts of attempted handwriting into speech by analyzing neural activity in the motor cortex. Two years later, they achieved a similar breakthrough with a BCI that translated attempted speech. Now, the lab has taken another step forward by focusing directly on the inner monologue, without the need for physical attempts at speech or writing.

The results of this latest development were published in the journal Cell. According to Willett, a co-author on all three studies, the goal was to determine whether a BCI could work based solely on neural activity evoked by imagined speech rather than physical attempts to produce speech.

Testing the System

To translate imagined speech, Willett and his team used four participants from the Brain2Gate trial. This study aimed to develop proof-of-principle for people with tetraplegia to control computer cursors and other assistive devices using their thoughts. The participants had multiple 64-channel microelectrode arrays implanted in their brains for previous trials. At least two of the volunteers, a 68-year-old woman and a 33-year-old man, were diagnosed with ALS and either couldn’t communicate clearly or couldn’t move their muscles at all.

Participants were asked to perform speech attempts or think about simple words. In another test, they heard or silently read the same words. The team mapped phonemes—the building blocks of speech—and used an AI decoder to reconstruct the participants' inner thoughts. The resulting patterns were similar to those of attempted speech signals from a 2023 study but less robust.

Enhancing Privacy and Functionality

The researchers also developed unique in-system code phrases—such as “Orange you glad I didn’t say banana”—to switch the BCI on and off, allowing participants to maintain privacy over their inner monologues.

“We found that we could decode these signals well enough to demonstrate a proof of principle, although still not as well as we could with attempted speech,” Willett said. “This gives us hope that future systems could restore fluent, rapid and comfortable speech to people with paralysis via inner speech alone.”

Challenges and Future Directions

Despite the progress, the system still needs improvement before it can be considered a full-fledged mind-reading tool. With a vocabulary of just 50 words, the BCI produced an error rate as high as 33 percent.

Willett emphasized that implanted BCIs are still in the early stages of research and testing. “Improved hardware will enable more neurons to be recorded and will be fully implantable and wireless, increasing BCIs’ accuracy, reliability and ease of use,” he noted.

Future studies will explore decoding processes beyond the motor cortex, including regions associated with language and hearing. With continued advancements in science, engineering, and a bit of luck, the day may come when voices are restored to those who have lost them due to accidents or neurodegenerative diseases.