Skimm’d with cold, hard cash (back)
January 19, 2022
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Daily Skimm

Skimm’d with cold, hard cash (back)

Quote of the Day
Quote of the Day

"I'm just embarrassed" — Bono, on hearing himself on the radio. We'll still listen to U2 With Or Without You, Bono.

16 Missed Calls

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The Story

The US’s 5G rollout is hitting some turbulence. 

What even is 5G?

Good question. In the history of cell networks, first came OG and 2G. 3G helped connect phones to the internet. 4G made it possible for smartphones to stream more. But 5G is the latest and greatest. It’s up to 100 times faster than 4G. Think: quicker downloads, clearer pictures, more bandwidth. Countries like the UK and France are already in on it, and the US is just catching up. All of that is supposed to change today. But it’s got many ringing alarms instead of cellphones.

I'm all ears. 

Today, AT&T and Verizon (two of the US’s biggest wireless carriers) are rolling out their 5G service. But people are saying 'hold the phone.' 5G relies on radio frequencies that planes need for safety and navigation. Cue: airlines and the FAA making frantic air traffic control hand waves to try to slow the rollout. Airlines warned it could've caused "catastrophic" delays and cancellations. And a number of them are playing it safe. Meanwhile, AT&T’s saying they’re “frustrated by the FAA's inability to do what nearly 40 countries have done.” Still, it agreed to compromise.

And that would be…?

No 5G access within two miles of some runways. Good news for those hoping to avoid more flight delays, cancellations, and even disruption to the US economy. Bad news for those who want to download every episode of “The Office” seconds before their flights take off. The deal means 90% of the 5G expansion will continue as planned. It’s still unclear when the remaining expansion will take off. 

theSkimm

She’s a runner, she’s a track star, but 5G needs cell towers to work. And those cell towers need to not disrupt the entire airline industry. So even though it's been years in the making, 5G's rollout is running on 1G speed.

Skimm More: We Skimm'd what this new 5G could mean for your gadgets. Plus, what a mobile tech expert had to say about the 5G hype here.

And Also...This

Who's got the hook-up...

The gov.*Today, the gov is formally launchingits website where Americans can order four rapid tests per household. On Uncle Sam’s dime. It all comes as the US has hit record high hospitalizations because of COVID-19. And as the US surgeon general warns the nation has yet to reach its peak. Now, the Biden admin says the move is part of its efforts to make testing more accessible. It’s got some critics are saying 'a little late but OK.' Shipping is expected to begin later this month. Get yours here.

...Oh and speaking of taking precautions, the Biden admin plans to distribute 400 million N95 masks by early February. And it won't cost you a penny.

Who’s saying ‘game on’...

Microsoft.* Yesterday,the company shared its plans to buy video game publisherActivision Blizzardfor $68.7 billion.For the past few months, Activision — the maker of games like Call of Duty, Candy Crush, and World of Warcraft —has been struggling with allegations of sexual harassment anddiscrimination by employees. Shares have dropped. Now, this deal could be one of the largest acquisitionsin recent history — making Microsoftthe world’s third-largest gaming company by revenue —if federal regulatorssign off.Microsofthasn’t said if it’ll makeActivision’spopular games exclusive toXbox (which it owns). The deal reportedly won’t close till 2023. 

Who people are remembering…

André Leon Talley. Yesterday, the Black fashion icon has died at age 73. Throughout his decades-long fashion career, Talley was a pioneer who paved the way for Black designers, models, and editors in the fashion industry. He held positions at publications including Women’s Wear Daily and The New York Times. But he was best known for his role as American Vogue’s first Black creative director. And later as the magazine's first editor-at-large, working alongside Anna Wintour. Edward Enninful, British Vogue’s first Black editor-in-chief, thanked Talley for “paving the way” and said, “without you, there would be no me.”

What’s moving from the driver’s seat to the courtroom bench…

Tesla’s Autopilot. For the first time ever, a US driver is reportedly being charged with felony manslaughter over an accident involving the self-driving software. In 2019, the driver was using Autopilot when his car crashed into another, killing two people. The man has pleaded not guilty and is expected back in court next month. 

  • In the hot seat: Tesla’s Autopilot features are available in more than 750,000 US vehicles. But the program has raised concerns in recent years. And is under investigation by US federal agencies after a series of accidents, injuries, and at least one death.

Who’s saying ‘new capital, who dis’...

Indonesia.

*PS: Not a Washington Post subscriber? Check out their exclusive offer just for Skimm’rs.

Skimm Well

Honest Q: Have you ever gone to the pharmacy and only brought home what you went for? Us neither. They just...have all of the things. And we can’t help but keep adding to cart. Speaking of which, we’ve rounded up more CVS goodies that can help you live a healthier life. ‘Tis the season after all.

How to Skimm Your Life Challenge

Whether you’re obsessed with your step count or happy on the couch, walking is good for your mental and physical health — especially once in a while sans headphones. Today, go for a walk without your phone and take in what’s around you. Or, let all those mental notes you keep piled up narrate your stroll. Need a pep in your step? Read this.

PS: When you get back to your phone, a good message will be waiting if you sign up to get our challenges texted to you. For past challenges, go here.

Solve Everyday Problems with Products

Our Skimm Your Life newsletter is here to solve your everyday problems with the smartest products. Every Thursday, we bring our favorite finds to your inbox from winter essentials if you’re always cold to suspense books that’ll keep you turning pages. Sign up today.

Skimm Picks

Here are today’s recs to help you live a smarter life…

1. Cult-fave kicks that are perfect for winter. These comfy suede and canvas sneaks have celebs swooning and the internet raving (helloooooo, 15K five-star reviews). Plus they’re back in stock after a 34K waitlist. Seriously. They’re also never on sale, but Skimm’rs get a special offer.*

2. Easy-to-prep meals that are actually good for you. This brand’s chef-crafted smoothies, bowls, and snacks are built on whole, organic fruits and veggies. Think: strawberry peach smoothies and pear and arugula flatbreads. And they’re ready in minutes. Plus, Skimm’rs get up to $40 off their first box.*

3. Everything you need to reach your fitness goals. Just in time for twenty-twenty-YOU. DICK’S Sporting Goods has weights, treadmills, exercise bikes, and so. much. more. Plus, you can pay over time with as low as 0% APR with Affirm.*†

4. A toothbrush you’ll be bragging to your friends about. Don’t say we didn’t warn ya. Spotlight Oral Care’s sonic toothbrush cleans deep and helps remove stains and plaque. No wonder it’s got tons of five-star reviews. PS: Skimm’rs get 50% off. Aaand a free gift.*

*PS: This is a sponsored post.

†Rates from 0-30% APR. For example, a $1,000 purchase might cost $83.34/mo over 12 months at 0% APR. Payment options through Affirm are subject to an eligibility check, may not be available in all states, and are provided by these lending partners: affirm.com/lenders. Options depend on your purchase amount, and a down payment may be required. CA residents: Loans by Affirm Loan Services, LLC are made or arranged pursuant to a California Finance Lenders Law license

Skimm'rs

We like to celebrate the wins, big and small. Let us know how your friends, neighbors, coworkers (and yes, even you) are making career moves, checking off goals, or making an impact in the community.

Making moves…Cindy S (UT). She made a major career change during the pandemic from professional theater to medicine. Now, she’s starting school for surgical technology.

A dog's best friend…Tracy Z (AZ). After her beloved canine companion of 15 years passed away, she spread the love by starting a pet sitting business.

(Some) Birthdays…Skimm Sister Jordyn Weisberg (IL), theSkimm's Niven McCall-Mazza (NY), Dan Schulman, Crystal Cabrera (CA), Aimee Heslin (PA), Lisa Kaiser (IN), Jessica Zeitlin (NY), Christine A. Jimenez (FL), Lydia Sartain (GA), Meghan D. Hayward (NJ), Kristin Foss (FL), Megan Lutrick (TX ), Alex Dunn (VA), Rosie Barr (NY), Gray Moulton (NC), Gayle Baker-Gaydos (PA)

*Paging all members of theSkimm. Reach out here for a chance to be featured.

Skimm More

You may know Melissa Wood-Tepperberg for her accessible workouts and app, Melissa Wood Health, but she wasn’t always where she wanted to be. Recently on “9 to 5ish,” we spoke to the wellness guru on overcoming insecurities, setting intentions, and staying motivated. Listen now.

And if you’re looking for other smart ways to spend your time...

Skimm’d by Rashaan Ayesh, Kate Gilhool, Julie Shain, and Mariza Smajlaj

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