9 Great Reads From CNET This Week: 5G vs. Cable, Pixel Watch, McMansions and More

For many of us, our connection to the internet from our homes happens via cable. Even our phones often rely on that, as we connect to Wi-Fi to work, Wordle, shop or spin through TikTok. There are alternatives, though, and not just satellite service.

Nowadays, there’s a 5G option for home internet, at least in some areas. CNET’s Eli Blumenthal spent a few weeks trying it out and said this broadband option shows “plenty of promise,” along with notable shortfalls. 

His story is among the many in-depth features and thought-provoking commentaries that appeared on CNET this week. So here you go. These are the stories you don’t want to miss.

Verizon, T-Mobile and My Personal Attempt to Replace Cable Internet With 5G

T-Mobile’s and Verizon’s respective 5G home internet offerings have potential, but both need work to fix consistency.  

What Google’s Pixel Watch Can Learn From Its Phones

Commentary: Google has an opportunity to make its first smartwatch stand out with Pixel-specific features. 

Don’t Just Tour That Home Online. By All Means Judge It

McMansion Hell and Zillow Gone Wild are part of a big world of architecture and real estate voyeurism. 

I Tried the ‘Anti-Instagram’ App Called BeReal, and It’s Actually Kinda Fun

This social app, which seeks to avoid the phoniness of its much-bigger rivals, takes just a couple minutes a day and still allows for friendly competition.

On the Edge of Chaos: Why Your Brain Balances on a High Wire

We derive a wealth of benefits from teetering between calmness and mayhem.

What’s at Stake in Your Statehouse

Every state legislature is different, and it’s important to know what yours does and how it functions. Our guide can help.

Stylish, Kooky ’18 1/2′ Finds the Weird in Watergate

This unique take on the scandal is anything but the movie you’re expecting.

Please Don’t Let Neil deGrasse Tyson Ruin Lunar Eclipses for You 

“Un-spectacular,” huh?

My Favorite Things on the Internet

A very personal list of the best things I’ve ever seen online.