TechCrunch...Amazon to begin testing AI tools for film and TV production next monthAmazon MGM Studios is launching a closed beta program in March for its proprietary AI tools designed to streamline TV and film production by improving character consistency and automating pre- and post-production tasks. The initiative, developed in collaboration with industry creators like Robert Stromberg and former Pixar animator Colin Brady, aims to support creative teams and reduce costs while protecting intellectual property, with results expected by May.Read more →
Gizmodo...Will an Nvidia Laptop Even Matter?Nvidia is developing its first consumer CPUs, the N1 and N1X chips built with MediaTek, targeting laptops for productivity and gaming respectively. However, the company faces significant delays, with launches potentially pushed to summer 2026 or later due to Windows 11 compatibility issues and bugs, while competitors like Intel and AMD are already shipping capable alternatives.Read more →
Engadget...Bipartisan SCAM Act would require online platforms to crack down on fraudulent adsSenators Ruben Gallego and Bernie Moreno introduced the SCAM Act, bipartisan legislation requiring social media platforms to take reasonable steps to prevent fraudulent ads or face FTC and state attorney general enforcement action. The bill targets platforms like Meta, which reportedly derived up to 10 percent of 2024 revenue from scam ads, and aims to address the $19 billion in estimated annual fraud losses to American consumers.Read more →
The Verge...Sam Altman responds to Anthropic’s ‘funny’ Super Bowl adsSam Altman responded to Anthropic's Super Bowl ad criticizing deceptive AI practices, defending OpenAI's free access model and Codex coding tool while arguing that Anthropic's restrictive approach to AI usage limits innovation. OpenAI emphasizes democratized AI access and broad decision-making over controlled, expensive products, positioning itself as enabling builders rather than restricting users.Read more →
Gizmodo...‘Overwatch 2’ Rebrands, and Its Messy Arc Is CompleteBlizzard Entertainment has retitled Overwatch 2 back to simply 'Overwatch' for its 35th anniversary, as the studio believes the game transcends any single number designation. The rebranding accompanies new content initiatives including narrative-driven in-game events, comics, and animated shorts, with new heroes launching throughout 2026 as part of a planned 'Rise of Talon' story arc.Read more →
Gizmodo...The Western US Is in a Snow Drought. What Comes Next Is Even ScarierThe western United States is experiencing a severe snow drought, with record-low snowpack levels due to unusually warm temperatures and a dry spell in January. This threatens the region's water supply, which depends on snowmelt for up to 75% of its freshwater, and significantly increases the risk of summer drought and wildfires across the West.Read more →
Gizmodo...Why the Epstein Files Are Reviving a Conspiracy Theory About Wayfair and Human TraffickingThe article examines a 2020 conspiracy theory claiming Wayfair facilitated child sex trafficking through overpriced furniture listings. After Jeffrey Epstein's files were released in January 2025, the theory resurfaced; however, investigation shows Epstein's Wayfair purchases were ordinary furniture items including bath fixtures and chairs gifted to Woody Allen, with no evidence supporting trafficking claims. The conspiracy theory appears rooted in coincidental expensive listings and missing children's names, but lacks substantive evidence despite proven connections between Epstein and elite figures.Read more →
TechCrunch...A16z just raised $1.7B for AI infrastructure. Here’s where it’s going.Andreessen Horowitz raised $15 billion in new funding, with $1.7 billion allocated to its infrastructure team for AI investments across companies like OpenAI, ElevenLabs, Cursor, and Ideogram. The firm is focusing on AI infrastructure, talent acquisition challenges, and search infrastructure as key areas for future investment.Read more →
The Verge...This Town, 2.0This newsletter covers multiple technology policy developments in Washington, including negotiations on the Clarity Act for cryptocurrency regulation, departures from the Trump administration's Commerce Department venture investment arm, and controversial deals involving crypto companies and foreign entities. Key stories also include government shutdown negotiations, congressional testimony from public figures, and ongoing political battles over tech industry regulation spanning semiconductors, AI, social media, and cryptocurrency.Read more →
Gizmodo...‘Crown’ Star Claire Foy Quit Caffeine After Living With a Gut Parasite for Half a DecadeThe British actor claims to have struggled with gut parasites for at least five years.Read more →
Gizmodo...Washington Post Lays Off Its Amazon Beat Reporter as Bezos Brings the Hammer DownThe Washington Post laid off approximately 300 journalists, representing 30% of its roughly 800-person newsroom, eliminating entire sections including sports and books as the Jeff Bezos-owned newspaper attempts to address long-standing financial challenges. The cuts come amid reported tensions between Bezos's business interests and the paper's editorial independence, following previous subscriber losses after the publication declined to endorse a presidential candidate.Read more →
Engadget...The best digital frames for 2026This article reviews digital photo frames, highlighting the Aura Carver Mat as a premium option with an excellent display and simple setup, while also comparing more affordable alternatives like PhotoSpring and Google's Nest Hub Max. Each device offers different trade-offs between price, features, and display quality, with the Carver Mat standing out for its design and cloud-based photo management system.Read more →
Gizmodo...‘Fallout’ Season 2 Ends Pointing at the Big Bad You Already Knew Was ComingFallout's second season finale sets up major conflicts for season three, including a three-way battle for New Vegas between the NCR and Legion, the emergence of the Enclave as a unifying threat with plans involving the Forced Evolutionary Virus, and the Brotherhood of Steel's construction of Liberty Prime Alpha. The Ghoul's storyline shifts toward Colorado, potentially introducing new lore elements from the franchise's history.Read more →
The Verge...Overwatch: all the news about Blizzard’s hit hero shooterOverwatch 2 is reverting to its original name as Overwatch in 2026, following a series of changes including the reinstatement of 6v6 gameplay and loot boxes that were previously removed or altered. The game has undergone significant shifts since its 2022 launch, reflecting developer responses to community feedback on core gameplay mechanics.Read more →
CNET...Prime Video: The 30 Absolute Best Shows to WatchThis article is a curated list of Prime Video shows across multiple genres, highlighting series such as Fallout, Paper Girls, and The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel. It recommends a diverse selection of content including dramas, comedies, thrillers, and animated series for various viewer preferences.Read more →
Gizmodo...Crypto Market in Shambles as Bitcoin Price Down 40% Since October HighBitcoin has declined approximately 40% from its October all-time high of $125,000 to around $75,000, with the broader crypto market losing $1.75 trillion, underperforming gold amid geopolitical tensions and concerns about quantum computing security threats. The asset's struggle to establish itself as 'digital gold' reflects limited institutional adoption, regulatory uncertainty following setbacks like the CLARITY Act, and competition from emerging technologies like stablecoins that challenge Ethereum's dominance.Read more →
Engadget...Games Done Quick's Back to Black 2026 event kicks off tomorrowGames Done Quick is hosting Back to Black 2026, a four-day speedrunning event starting February 5 that raises funds for Race Forward, a nonprofit addressing systemic racism. The event celebrates Black History Month and showcases talent from the Black speedrunning community with runs including Hades II, Donkey Kong Country, and other titles.Read more →
The Verge...Ikea's cheap new smart home gear is struggling to get connectedA furniture retailer is experiencing significant onboarding and connectivity problems with its newly launched Matter-over-Thread smart home products. These issues are impacting users' ability to set up and maintain connections with the devices.Read more →
Gizmodo...Rent-a-Human Site Lets AI Agents Hire an IRL Set of Opposable ThumbsRentAHuman.ai, a platform allowing AI agents to hire humans for physical tasks, has gained 70,000 sign-ups since launching, though only about 70 AI agents are actively using it. The platform faces significant concerns including minimal actual task opportunities, cryptocurrency-based payments with low wallet adoption rates, and security vulnerabilities stemming from the creators' reliance on AI-generated code rather than rigorous development practices.Read more →
Engadget...Roblox’s '4D' creation toolset is now available in open betaRoblox has introduced a new AI model that generates interactive 3D objects from text prompts, expanding its earlier open-source AI capabilities. The beta toolset currently supports two templates for creating fully functional cars and solid objects with realistic physics and independent interactive components. The company plans to expand customization options and develop image-based 3D generation features.Read more →
CNET...Best Desks of 2026: I’ve Spent Nearly 4,000 Hours Testing Desks. These Are the Ones You WantCNET reviews various desk options for different needs, including standing desks, gaming desks, and crafting tables, with detailed assessments of features, assembly time, and pricing. The article provides recommendations for specific use cases such as gaming, office work, executive spaces, and small areas, helping readers select the best desk based on their requirements and budget.Read more →
The Verge...OpenClaw's AI 'skill' extensions are a security nightmareSecurity researchers discovered hundreds of malicious add-ons distributed through ClawHub, a platform for browser extensions and software add-ons. This finding highlights significant security risks in third-party add-on ecosystems and the need for improved vetting mechanisms to protect users from compromised software.Read more →
Gizmodo...The Oscar-Nominated ‘Avatar’ Costume Designer Explains That Yes, Those Na’vi Outfits Are RealAvatar: Fire and Ash received its first Oscar nomination for Best Costume Design, a historic first for the franchise. Costume designer Deborah L. Scott revealed that despite the film's motion-capture technology, her team creates physical garments at human scale which are then scanned and digitally adapted for the nine-foot-tall Na'vi characters, representing a new approach to costume design in VFX-heavy productions.Read more →
CNET...Best Standing Desks of 2026This CNET article reviews the best standing desks for 2026, evaluating models across various categories including overall quality, budget options, gaming desks, and compact designs. The review highlights that standing desks can reduce sedentary behavior and improve productivity, with prices ranging from under $350 to over $1,700 depending on features and customization.Read more →
CNET...Overwatch's New Season 1 Is What the Game Was Always Meant to BeBlizzard announced a major revitalization of Overwatch, dropping the "2" from the title and launching ten new heroes throughout 2026, starting with five immediately available. The update includes an integrated year-long narrative focused on the Talon storyline, map changes reflecting story events, and improved developer tools that reduced hero design time from eight to four months.Read more →
Engadget...Overwatch will drop the '2' as Jetpack Cat and four other heroes arrive on February 10Blizzard is dropping the '2' from Overwatch's name and launching a major content overhaul in 2026, starting with five new heroes arriving February 10, including the long-awaited Jetpack Cat. The studio is beginning a year-long narrative arc called 'The Reign of Talon' that will connect all lore, heroes, and events, marking the most significant update to the game since the free-to-play transition.Read more →
Engadget...The best VPN deals: Up to 87 percent off ProtonVPN, Surfshark, ExpressVPN, NordVPN and moreThis article reviews current VPN service deals, offering 70-87 percent discounts on annual subscriptions from providers like ExpressVPN, NordVPN, and Surfshark. The piece advises consumers to carefully evaluate VPN options beyond price alone, noting that long-term subscription deals often reset at higher renewal rates and that choosing a reliable VPN is important for protecting online privacy from ISPs and advertisers.Read more →
Engadget...X's 'open source' algorithm isn't a win for transparency, researchers sayX released a redacted version of its recommendation algorithm, claiming transparency, but researchers argue the published code lacks the crucial details needed for meaningful auditing or understanding how the platform actually works. The algorithm now relies on a black-box Grok-like language model for post ranking rather than explicit formulas, making it more opaque despite the open-source release.Read more →
The Verge...The best iPad deals you can get right nowThis article provides a comprehensive guide to current iPad deals across all models, from the entry-level 11th-gen iPad starting at $299.99 to the premium M5 iPad Pro with discounts up to $150. The deals highlight savings on various storage configurations across Wi-Fi and cellular options, making it an opportune time for consumers to purchase iPads outside of major sale events.Read more →
TechCrunch...Tinder looks to AI to help fight ‘swipe fatigue’ and dating app burnoutTinder is launching Chemistry, an AI-powered feature designed to reduce swipe fatigue by using questions and photo analysis to provide users with more targeted match recommendations instead of endless swiping. The feature, currently in testing in Australia, represents a significant shift in Tinder's strategy to combat declining user engagement and subscriber losses, with Match also investing $50 million in marketing to revitalize the platform's appeal.Read more →
Engadget...You can pre-order the Pixel 10a on February 18Google has officially announced the Pixel 10a mid-range smartphone with a teaser video, with pre-orders beginning February 18. Based on leaked specifications, the phone features a 6.285-inch display, dual rear cameras, and a 5,100mAh battery, with minimal external changes from its predecessor.Read more →
Gizmodo...Enormous Pair of Deep-Earth Hot ‘Blobs’ Shape Earth’s Magnetic Field, Scientists SayResearchers have discovered evidence of two massive superheated rock blobs deep within Earth's mantle that play a crucial role in sustaining the planet's magnetic field. These continent-sized structures, located beneath Africa and the Pacific Ocean, maintain the heat transfer necessary to power Earth's geodynamo, the system of electric currents that generates our protective magnetic field and prevents the planet from becoming magnetically dead like Mars and Venus.Read more →
Engadget...ExpressVPN deal: Two-year plans are up to 81 percent offExpressVPN is offering significant discounts on its two-year plans, with up to 81 percent off, making its premium VPN service more affordable for privacy-conscious users. The deal includes four free additional months and addresses the service's historically high pricing while maintaining its reputation for speed, ease of use, and global server network availability.Read more →
Gizmodo...Jacob Elordi’s Mom Told Him to Never Work With Guillermo del Toro for a Very Mom ReasonJacob Elordi broke a childhood promise to his mother never to work with director Guillermo del Toro after being traumatized by Pan's Labyrinth at age 10, but ended up starring in del Toro's Frankenstein, which received 15 Oscar nominations including Best Picture. Elordi plans to bring his mother to the Oscars to make amends for the broken promise.Read more →
CNET...Anker's Versatile Home Battery Backup Hybrid System Is Now Available to BuyAnker launches the Solix E10, a modular home power backup system priced at $3,799-$9,399 that combines battery, solar, and fuel generator capabilities with up to 37.2kW power output and scalability for up to 90kWh capacity. The system offers whole-home backup via Power Dock, DIY installation, and can provide 15 days of backup power when three units are combined, addressing extended outage scenarios.Read more →
TechCrunch...Lunar Energy raises $232M to deploy home batteries that prop up the gridLunar Energy, a residential battery startup, raised $232 million in combined Series C and D funding to scale production to 100,000 units by 2028, capitalizing on growing investment in stationary energy storage as grid-connected batteries become essential for grid stability and virtual power plants replace traditional peaking power plants. Policy shifts away from EV incentives have redirected battery manufacturing focus toward stationary storage, attracting significant venture capital from competitors like Tesla and Base Power.Read more →
TechCrunch...Hackers publish personal information stolen during Harvard, UPenn data breachesShinyHunters, a notorious hacking group, has published over one million records stolen from Harvard University and University of Pennsylvania following data breaches last year. The group claimed responsibility after the universities refused to pay ransom demands, releasing sensitive alumni data including email addresses, phone numbers, donations, and biographical information obtained through social engineering and voice phishing attacks.Read more →
Gizmodo...Ancient ‘Dial-a-Poem’ Service Rises From the Grave, Lets You Use Your Phone as a PhoneDial-a-Poem, a service founded by poet John Giorno in 1968 to deliver poetry over telephone lines, has been revived as a collaboration between Giorno Poetry Systems and The Poetry Project. The new service features work from 30 contemporary poets and is accessible both via phone call and through a website, continuing Giorno's vision of using technology to advance poetry as a performance medium.Read more →
The Verge...I was detained by federal agents in MinneapolisIn response to fraud allegations, the Department of Homeland Security intensified immigration enforcement in Minnesota's Twin Cities, resulting in widespread arrests of both immigrants and protesters. A local protester arrested during demonstrations following a fatal shooting by Border Patrol agents describes harrowing conditions in federal custody, including use of chemical irritants, physical rough treatment, and prolonged detention without timely legal access, while witnessing immigrants being processed for deportation.Read more →
The Verge...Apple TV details its 2026 streaming lineup with big list of announcementsApple TV+ is significantly expanding its content slate for the year with numerous new and returning series, including Ted Lasso season 2, Monarch: Legacy of Monsters season 2, and live sports coverage like Formula 1, marking a strategic shift from its previous quality-focused approach toward broader audience reach. The expansion addresses long-standing complaints about limited content availability, though it raises questions about whether Apple can maintain quality standards across its expanded portfolio.Read more →
The Verge...Google Cloud’s customer chief returns to Microsoft as head of securityMicrosoft has appointed Hayete Gallot as executive vice president of security, replacing Charlie Bell who is transitioning to an engineering quality role. The leadership change occurs as Microsoft continues its Secure Future Initiative to rebuild security culture following multiple high-profile breaches and a critical Cyber Safety Review Board report in 2024.Read more →
Gizmodo...New Mexico Newborn Dies After Mother Drank Raw Milk, Prompting Fresh WarningsA newborn in New Mexico died from a Listeria infection likely contracted from raw milk consumed by the mother during pregnancy, prompting health officials to warn against unpasteurized dairy products. Raw milk poses serious health risks including exposure to foodborne pathogens like Listeria and bird flu, which can be particularly dangerous for pregnant women and infants, despite popular claims about its nutritional benefits.Read more →
The Verge...Google's Pixel 10A will be revealed on February 18thGoogle has announced the Pixel 10A, a budget-friendly smartphone featuring a dual-camera setup in a flat design similar to its predecessor. The device will be available for preorder on February 18th, with pricing expected to remain competitive based on leaks suggesting 128GB and 256GB storage options.Read more →
Engadget...Anthropic says it won't bring ads to Claude, unlike rival ChatGPTAnthropic has committed to keeping Claude ad-free, contrasting with OpenAI's recent introduction of ads to ChatGPT. The company argues that ads would compromise Claude's ability to be a genuinely helpful assistant for deep work and could be inappropriate in contexts like mental health advice or complex problem-solving, as they would conflict with the Claude Constitution's core principle of being helpful.Read more →
CNET...When to Watch Figure Skating at the 2026 Winter OlympicsThe 2026 Winter Olympics figure skating events will take place in Milan from February 6-21, with coverage available in the US on NBC, USA Network, CNBC, NBCSN, and Peacock. Elite skaters including America's Ilia Malinin and Alysa Liu will compete across team, individual, and pairs events for Olympic gold medals.Read more →
CNET...This Phone Stays Charged for Almost a Week by Keeping Your Data SecurePlugging up data-leaking apps extends your phone's battery life. Who would have guessed?Read more →
Engadget...The 11 best gifts under $25 for 2026This article is a gift guide featuring various tech gadgets and accessories for different needs, including phone mounts, smart home devices, wireless chargers, portable fans, and charging cables. The selections emphasize practical utility, affordability, and ease of use for both tech enthusiasts and casual users.Read more →
Gizmodo...A24 Will Revive ‘Texas Chainsaw Massacre’ With a TV Show and MovieA24 has acquired the Texas Chainsaw Massacre franchise and plans to expand it with a TV series from writer JT Mollner and producer Glen Powell, followed by a new film in early development. This acquisition continues the trend of classic horror franchises being adapted into television series.Read more →
The Verge...GitHub adds Claude and Codex AI coding agentsGitHub is integrating AI capabilities from both OpenAI and Anthropic into its platform, expanding its AI-assisted development tools. This reflects Microsoft's broader strategy to incorporate multiple leading AI providers into its developer ecosystem.Read more →
The Verge...Roblox calls its take on AI world models ‘real-time dreaming’Roblox is presenting its research on AI world models, following Google's recent launch of Project Genie. The development reflects growing industry focus on AI systems that can simulate and generate virtual environments.Read more →
The Verge...Fallout’s season 2 finale left plenty unanswered as it expanded in scopeFallout season 2's finale expands the show's scope with multiple converging plotlines involving mind-control technology, hidden vaults, and major power players in the wasteland, but leaves most story threads unresolved. The episode introduces larger mysteries about hidden agendas and upcoming conflicts while delivering minimal payoff, setting up even bigger developments for future seasons.Read more →
CNET...Anthropic Pinky Promises It Won't Add Ads to ClaudeAnthropic is pledging not to introduce advertisements in Claude conversations, running Super Bowl ads to distinguish itself from competitor OpenAI, which recently announced it would begin testing ads in ChatGPT. The move reflects broader tension in the AI industry where companies are seeking new revenue sources to support expensive model development, though concerns remain that ads could compromise user experience and product integrity.Read more →
TechCrunch...Roblox’s 4D creation feature is now available in open betaRoblox launched an open beta for its 4D creation feature, enabling creators to design interactive 3D objects with behaviors and movement capabilities, expanding beyond static models. The technology breaks objects into functional parts—such as cars with spinning wheels—and supports different schema templates, with plans for creators to build custom schemas and AI-powered features like real-time world generation from text prompts.Read more →
Gizmodo...This Earth-Facing Sunspot Region Is Absolutely Popping OffSunspot region 4366 has produced six X-class solar flares since January 30, including an X8.1 flare that generated a coronal mass ejection heading toward Earth. While a minor geomagnetic storm is forecast and some radio blackouts have occurred, the impact on technology and infrastructure is expected to be limited.Read more →
The Verge...'Incognito' operator sentenced to 30 years for running a dark web drug marketRui-Siang Lin was sentenced to 30 years in prison for operating Incognito Market, a dark web marketplace that facilitated over $105 million in drug sales between 2020 and 2024. Lin profited by taking a five percent cut from cryptocurrency transactions while providing anonymity to buyers and sellers, and ultimately stole $1 million from users before closing the operation.Read more →
Gizmodo...Pinterest Reportedly Fires Employees Who Built a Tool to Track LayoffsPinterest fired two engineers who created an internal tool to track recently laid-off employees after the company declined to share that information. The incident highlights tensions between employee transparency concerns and company policies, with leadership framing the behavior as obstructionist rather than constructive dissent.Read more →
Engadget...iPhone Fold rumors: Everything we know so far, including the leaked foldable designApple is targeting a late-2026 launch for its first foldable iPhone with a book-style design similar to Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold, featuring a 7.7-8.3 inch internal display and expected pricing between $2,000-$2,500. The device is expected to use Samsung Display's crease-less OLED panel technology, Liquidmetal hinge material for improved durability, and a four-camera setup with Touch ID instead of Face ID.Read more →
Engadget...Presidents' Day sales 2026: The best tech deals from Apple, Sony, Roku and othersPresidents' Day 2026 offers a range of tech deals across streaming devices, Apple products, headphones, and home electronics, with discounts ranging from 13% to 51%. Notable offerings include the Roku Streaming Stick Plus at 40% off, Apple Watch Series 11 at $100 off, and various audio devices from Beats and Sony at significant markdowns.Read more →
Gizmodo...Experts Stuck 2 Mummies in a CT Scanner. Here’s What They SawEgyptian mummies underwent advanced CT scans at USC's Keck Medicine, revealing previously unknown details about two ancient priests including spinal deterioration, dental problems, and hip issues. The high-resolution imaging technology and resulting 3D models provide unprecedented insights into the lived experiences and health conditions of ancient Egyptians, with applications extending to modern surgical planning and patient education.Read more →
Engadget...Egypt to block Roblox for all usersEgyptian regulators have banned Roblox, citing concerns about child safety, direct communication with strangers, and potential psychological effects on young users. The ban joins restrictions in Iraq, Algeria, Saudi Arabia, UAE, Turkey, and Russia, though Roblox has implemented safeguards and contributed significantly to regional GDP.Read more →
Gizmodo...‘Whistle’ Puts a Pleasingly Freaky Spin on a Familiar Horror TaleWhistle is a horror film that follows familiar genre tropes—a cursed object that kills its victims one by one—but executes the premise effectively through strong cast performances, particularly Dafne Keen as the protagonist Chrys. While the story is predictable and doesn't break new ground narratively, the film stands out for its creative death sequences and maintains entertainment value despite its formulaic structure.Read more →
Gizmodo...Samsung’s Galaxy S26 Might Have an Even More Ridiculous Camera ZoomSamsung is teasing the upcoming Galaxy S26 with hints of enhanced zoom capabilities and improved night mode for video and photos. The flagship phone is expected to launch on February 25 with AI-enhanced zoom technology and refined camera features, though the overall design is expected to remain similar to the Galaxy S25 Ultra.Read more →
Engadget...Alexa+ is now available nationwide, with a free text-based version for non-Prime members to tryAmazon has launched Alexa+, a next-generation AI assistant available to US users for $20/month or free with Prime membership, featuring conversational interactions and agentic capabilities for scheduling, recommendations, and smart home control. The rollout includes a free text-based tier for non-Prime members and positions the premium service as an added value for the 200+ million Prime subscribers.Read more →
The Verge...The 14-inch, ARM-based Asus Vivobook is half off todayThe Asus Vivobook 14 with Snapdragon X processor is on sale for $379.99 at Best Buy, offering solid performance and app compatibility at half its original price. The article highlights improvements in ARM-based laptop emulation and discusses other tech deals including AMD CPU bundles, Nintendo Switch 2 discounts, and Google chargers.Read more →
The Verge...The Verge’s 2026 Valentine’s Day gift guide (for him)This article is a curated Valentine's Day gift guide featuring a wide range of products across multiple categories, from Apple AirPods 4 and Nintendo Switch 2 to massage guns, board games, and novelty items. Each product includes pricing, brief descriptions of features, and why it might appeal as a gift for a romantic partner.Read more →
Engadget...How to watch the 2026 Super Bowl: Patriots vs. Seahawks channel, where to stream, start time, and moreSuper Bowl LX will take place on February 8, 2026, at Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara, featuring the New England Patriots versus Seattle Seahawks with a 6:30 p.m. ET kickoff. The game will be broadcast on NBC and Telemundo, with streaming available on Peacock, NFL+, and DirecTV, while Bad Bunny will headline the halftime show.Read more →
Gizmodo...Here’s Why You Should Care About the Next-Gen Xbox LaunchMicrosoft is developing a next-generation Xbox console with AMD featuring a custom SoC expected to launch in 2027, allowing access to multiple gaming platforms like Steam and Epic Games Store in addition to Xbox services. The console will face a challenging 2026 market characterized by declining gaming hardware sales and rising costs, requiring Microsoft to differentiate through innovative features and competitive pricing to reinvigorate the Xbox brand beyond traditional hardware manufacturing.Read more →
Engadget...iPad deal: Get $100 off the latest iPad mini right nowApple's latest iPad mini featuring the A17 Pro chip is available at $400, a $100 discount from its original price. The device offers a compact 8.3-inch display, Apple Intelligence capabilities, and dual cameras, making it an excellent portable option for travelers and casual users seeking a lightweight tablet alternative to full-sized iPads.Read more →
TechCrunch...ElevenLabs raises $500M from Sequioia at a $11 billion valuationElevenLabs raised $500 million in funding led by Sequoia Capital, reaching an $11 billion valuation—more than triple its January 2025 valuation. The company plans to expand beyond voice AI into video and agent capabilities, with funding directed toward research, product development, and international market expansion.Read more →
Engadget...Super Bowl 2026 TV deals: The best sales this week on OLEDs and other smart TVs ahead of the big gameSuper Bowl 2026 presents an ideal shopping opportunity for TV upgrades as 2025 models are being discounted ahead of new 2026 releases announced at CES. Retailers are offering significant savings across various price points, from budget-friendly 1080p and 4K sets under $500 to premium OLED models discounted by hundreds of dollars, alongside complementary streaming devices and audio equipment.Read more →
Gizmodo...‘KPop Demon Hunters’ Adds Lego Sets to Its Pop Culture TakeoverLego announced a collaboration with the popular KPop Demon Hunters franchise, with a single buildable set featuring the character Derpy the magical tiger launching in spring 2026, followed by additional sets in 2027. The phased rollout suggests limited minifigure availability initially, though the company will likely include key characters as the product line expands.Read more →
The Verge...I drove three Chinese cars — here’s why they would clean up in the USChinese automaker Geely has demonstrated competitive vehicles like the Zeekr 7X that rival Tesla's Model Y at significantly lower prices, positioning itself as a potential entrant to the US market. With an existing manufacturing plant in South Carolina and recent technological advances enabling simultaneous global vehicle launches, Geely could realistically enter the US market by 2029 if regulatory and national security concerns regarding automotive software are resolved.Read more →
TechCrunch...After backlash, Adobe cancels Adobe Animate shutdown and puts app on ‘maintenance mode’Adobe reversed its decision to discontinue Adobe Animate following customer backlash, placing the software in maintenance mode instead. The company will continue providing security updates and bug fixes while halting new feature development, keeping the application available to both current and new users indefinitely.Read more →
Engadget...Pick up the Apple Watch Series 11 while it's $100 offThe Apple Watch Series 11 is currently available at a $100 discount, priced at $299, making it the lowest price seen to date. The smartwatch features over 24 hours of battery life, a lightweight design, and new health metrics including hypertension alerts and Sleep Score functionality.Read more →
Engadget...Apple's iPhone Air MagSafe battery is cheaper than everApple's iPhone Air MagSafe battery pack is currently discounted to $79 from its regular $99 price, offering a slim 7.5mm design that adds minimal bulk while providing 65% additional charge capacity. The accessory also supports wireless charging for AirPods Pro 3 and allows simultaneous charging of both the iPhone and battery pack, making it a practical travel companion despite the premium price.Read more →
The Verge...Spotify launches offline lyrics, translations, and lyric previewsSpotify expanded its lyrics features globally, introducing worldwide access to lyric translations for both free and premium users with automatic localization based on device language. The company also launched lyric previews in a condensed format and offline lyrics access for premium subscribers, enhancing the overall music listening experience across the platform.Read more →
Gizmodo...Apple’s Vision Pro Could Not Provide Me the (Fake) Arcade of My DreamsApple's Retrocade app brings 10 classic arcade games to the Vision Pro headset, featuring visually impressive cabinet models with CRT effects and haptic feedback through controllers. However, the experience falls short of real arcades due to the solitary nature of VR, lack of tactile hand controls on virtual buttons, limited game selection, and absence of multiplayer functionality.Read more →
Engadget...Apple AirTag (2026) review: Simply betterApple released a second-generation AirTag priced at $29, featuring an upgraded ultra-wideband chip that extends Precision Finding range by 50 percent and delivers a louder, higher-pitched chime for better audibility in noisy environments. The new tracker maintains the same minimalist design as its predecessor while delivering meaningful improvements in tracking precision, responsiveness, and usability, particularly when paired with iPhone 15+ and newer Apple Watches.Read more →
CNET...Artemis II Is Shooting for the Moon: All the Details About NASA's Historic MissionNASA's Artemis II mission, scheduled for March 2026 at the earliest, will send four astronauts on a 10-day lunar flyby using the new Space Launch System rocket and Orion spacecraft—the first crewed lunar mission since Apollo 17 in 1972. The mission will test critical systems and gather data to prepare for Artemis III, which aims to return humans to the lunar surface by 2028.Read more →
Engadget...Nintendo's first Direct showcase of 2026 is scheduled for February 5Nintendo will host a Direct showcase on February 5 at 9AM ET, lasting approximately 30 minutes and focusing exclusively on third-party partner titles rather than first-party games. The event will feature announcements for games coming to both Switch and Switch 2 platforms.Read more →
TechCrunch...Uber appoints new CFO as its AV plans accelerateUber promoted Balaji Krishnamurthy, VP of strategic finance and investor relations, to CFO, signaling the company's commitment to autonomous vehicle expansion. The new CFO plans significant capital investments in AV software partners and infrastructure, with CEO Dara Khosrowshahi projecting Uber will facilitate autonomous trips in 15 cities by end of 2026 and become the world's largest AV trip facilitator by 2029.Read more →
CNET...Winter Olympics 2026: How to Watch Ice Hockey EventsThe 2026 Winter Olympics ice hockey events will run from February 5-22 in Milan-Cortina, with nearly 1.2 million tickets sold across men's and women's tournaments. All matches will be available to stream on Peacock and air on NBC, USA Network, and CNBC, with notable returning NHL players including Matthew Tkachuk for Team USA and Sidney Crosby for Canada.Read more →
CNET...Expert-Approved Continuous Glucose Monitors to Track Your Glucose DailyThis article reviews the best continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) available in 2026, including prescription and over-the-counter options like Dexcom G6, Stelo, and Abbott Freestyle Libre 3 Plus. CGMs provide real-time blood sugar tracking via wearable arm sensors that connect to smartphone apps, helping patients with diabetes and health-conscious individuals make informed decisions about diet, activity, and medication.Read more →
CNET...55 of the Best TV Shows on Netflix That Will Keep You EntertainedCNET provides a curated list of top Netflix shows to help viewers navigate the streamer's extensive catalog and avoid wasting time on poor content. The article highlights upcoming releases including The Lincoln Lawyer Season 4 (Feb. 5) and The Night Agent Season 3 (Feb. 19), offering recommendations across various genres from flagship series to underrated originals.Read more →
Gizmodo...It’s Going to Take a While For ‘Pluribus’ Season 2Mattel Studios is expanding its toy-to-film adaptations with projects including a Matchbox movie starring John Cena set for October 2025 release on Apple TV, and a character-driven drama based on the cult-classic Tony the Tattooed Man action figure. The article also covers casting updates for The Last of Us, The Temple sci-fi horror film, and production delays for Vince Gilligan's Pluribus series.Read more →
The Verge...Amazon rolls out Alexa Plus nationwide and launches a new free tierAmazon has expanded Alexa Plus, its generative AI-powered digital assistant, to all US Prime members and introduced a free tier for non-Prime users, with pricing at $19.99/month for standalone access. Built on Amazon Nova and Anthropic's large language models, Alexa Plus has evolved from a command-control voice assistant to a conversational AI capable of handling complex queries, managing calendars, booking services, and functioning as a text-based chatbot.Read more →
TechCrunch...SNAK Venture Partners raises $50M fund to back vertical marketplacesSNAK Venture Partners closed its $50 million debut fund focused on digitizing B2B marketplaces in underserved industries like supply chain and construction. Founded by former Pritzker Group investment leaders, the firm plans to invest in 20+ companies at $1-2 million per check, leveraging their track record with successful marketplace exits and a location-agnostic approach based in Chicago.Read more →
TechCrunch...Alexa+, Amazon’s AI assistant, is now available to everyone in the U.S.Amazon has launched Alexa+ to all U.S. customers, offering generative AI-powered features free to Prime members and with limitations for free web/app users, while non-Prime customers can pay $19.99/month. The upgraded assistant uses a combination of Amazon and third-party AI models to enable natural conversations, complex task automation through integrations with services like Uber and OpenTable, and features like itinerary planning and recipe management, with early beta data showing 2-3x increase in customer conversations and 25% growth in music streams.Read more →
TechCrunch...Apeiron Labs gets $29M to flood the oceans with autonomous underwater robotsApeiron Labs has developed low-cost autonomous underwater vehicles that collect subsurface ocean data by traveling up and down the water column multiple times daily, addressing a critical gap in oceanographic monitoring that previously required expensive ship expeditions. The startup closed a $9.5 million Series A round and aims to deploy dozens or hundreds of these compact AUVs for applications ranging from defense surveillance to fisheries management, with plans to reduce ocean data collection costs by a factor of 1,000.Read more →
TechCrunch...Apeiron Labs gets $9.5M to flood the oceans with autonomous underwater robotsApeiron Labs has raised $9.5 million to scale production of autonomous underwater vehicles that collect subsurface ocean data at significantly lower cost than traditional ship-based methods. The small, deployable AUVs monitor temperature, salinity, and acoustics across vast ocean areas, addressing a critical data gap for defense, fisheries, and climate monitoring applications.Read more →
Engadget...This 45W Anker Nano charger with smart display is on sale for only $30Anker unveiled an updated Nano Charger at CES 2026, a 45W charging device priced at $30 with a 25% discount on Amazon. The charger features a smart display showing real-time power flow, temperature, and charging status, with intelligent device recognition that automatically optimizes charging parameters to extend battery lifespan and support multiple device types including iPhones, Apple Watches, AirPods, and Samsung devices.Read more →
CNET...These Are the Whitening Toothpastes Dentists Recommend to Their PatientsThis article provides a comprehensive guide to selecting whitening toothpaste, reviewing seven products with varying formulations and recommendations from dentists. Key considerations include abrasiveness levels, active ingredients like hydrogen peroxide or hydroxyapatite, and individual factors such as tooth sensitivity and desired whitening speed.Read more →
Engadget...Sonos home theater gear is on sale for up to 20 percent off right nowSonos is offering significant discounts on its home theater products during Super Bowl season, with the popular Beam (Gen 2) soundbar reduced by $130 to $369, along with deals on the Arc Ultra, subwoofers, and other speakers. The Beam offers impressive audio quality for a midrange soundbar with Dolby Atmos support despite its single HDMI port limitation.Read more →
The Verge...Everyone is stealing TVSuperBox and vSeeBox are gaining popularity as affordable alternatives to expensive cable and streaming subscriptions, offering access to thousands of channels and on-demand content through devices costing $300-$400. These rogue streaming devices operate in a gray area, with manufacturers in China providing the hardware while American resellers distribute them, while the devices access pirated content through custom apps that crack DRM protections from legitimate services like Sling TV and Netflix.Read more →
The Verge...Anthropic says ‘Claude will remain ad-free,’ unlike ChatGPTAnthropic has announced that it won't be bringing ads to its AI chatbot Claude, in sharp contrast to confirmed plans from OpenAI to allow advertising in ChatGPT. To hammer the point home further, the company is releasing a Super Bowl commercial that makes fun of unnamed rivals adding adverts to their AI. "We want Claude […]Read more →
Engadget...This 512GB Samsung P9 microSD Express card is on sale for 33 percent offSamsung's 512GB P9 microSD Express card is discounted 33% to $80, offering significant value for Nintendo Switch 2 storage expansion with 800MB/s transfer speeds. The card is also compatible with Steam Deck and other devices supporting the microSD Express format.Read more →
CNET...I'm a Pro Photographer. Here's How I Take Film Photos With Analog CamerasThis article provides a comprehensive guide to analog film photography for beginners, covering essential techniques such as exposure control through ISO, aperture, and shutter speed adjustments. It also details the film development process, including cost-effective home scanning methods using digital cameras and specialized kits, as well as practical tips for getting started with film photography.Read more →
CNET...We Tested 35 Phones for the Best Battery Life. These 2 Brands Topped the FieldApple and OnePlus lead in smartphone battery life performance, with the iPhone 17 Pro Max and OnePlus 15 ranking at the top. Silicon-carbon battery technology is emerging as a key advancement, enabling higher capacity without larger physical batteries, representing a significant turning point in smartphone power management after a decade of minimal battery innovation.Read more →
Gizmodo...Wizards of the Coast Is Giving God’s Favorite Princess Her Own ‘Magic: The Gathering’ Secret LairWizards of the Coast announced a massive Dungeons & Dragons-themed Secret Lair card collection featuring seven sets, including two dedicated to Baldur's Gate 3 characters Shadowheart and Gale Dekarios. The drop launches February 9 with individual sets priced at $30-$40, with bundle options up to $465 for completionist collectors.Read more →
CNET...Best WordPress Hosting for Smooth Website Operation in 2026This article provides a comprehensive guide to WordPress hosting features and compares multiple hosting providers. It covers essential factors like storage, bandwidth, security, scalability, uptime, site speed, and customer support, then evaluates specific hosts including Bluehost, HostGator, WP Engine, and others based on their offerings and performance.Read more →
TechCrunch...Accel doubles down on Fibr AI as agents turn static websites into one-to-one experiencesFibr AI has secured $5.7 million in Series A funding led by Accel to automate website personalization using AI agents, enabling enterprises to run thousands of parallel experiments instead of a few dozen annually. The startup replaces traditional agency and engineering-heavy personalization models with autonomous systems that continuously optimize page content in real-time, already gaining traction among Fortune 100 companies in regulated industries like banking and healthcare.Read more →
TechCrunch...Spotify upgrades its lyrics feature with offline access, more translationsSpotify has announced updates to its lyrics feature, including global availability of lyric translations, offline viewing for Premium subscribers, and repositioning lyrics more prominently in the app interface. The changes aim to encourage free users to upgrade to Premium while improving engagement with the existing feature.Read more →
Gizmodo...Pfizer’s Experimental Weight Loss Drug Shows Promise as a Once-a-Month ShotPfizer presented trial data for PF'3944, an ultra-long-acting GLP-1 drug designed to require monthly dosing instead of weekly injections like competitors. Participants lost up to 12.3% of body weight with monthly maintenance doses, with no plateau observed by week 28, suggesting potential for greater efficacy than existing weight loss medications.Read more →
Gizmodo...Maggie Gyllenhaal Insists ‘The Bride!’ Isn’t a Musical, Despite All the SingingMaggie Gyllenhaal's upcoming film The Bride! features dance sequences and musical elements but is not classified as a musical genre film. The unconventional monster romance, starring Christian Bale and Jessie Buckley, includes tap dancing and performances by Jake Gyllenhaal, Maggie's brother, but represents a different form of storytelling than traditional musicals.Read more →
Gizmodo...Small Size and Serious Power, KAMRUI Mini PCs Up to 50% Off With Stackable Savings on AmazonKamrui is offering significant discounts on two mini PCs via Amazon: the Hyper H2 with Intel Core i5-14450HX drops to $391 with promotional codes, while the Pinova P2 with a 12-core i5-12600H reaches $359. Both compact systems deliver desktop-class performance for gaming, streaming, and productivity at substantially reduced prices.Read more →
The Verge...Sen. Warren wants to know what Google Gemini’s built-in checkout means for user privacySenator Warren is seeking clarification from Google regarding the data sharing practices with retail partners, specifically what types of data will be disclosed and the volume of information involved. This inquiry reflects ongoing scrutiny of tech companies' data handling practices and their commercial relationships.Read more →
Engadget...How to set up an AirTagApple's AirTag is a tracking device that uses the Find My network to locate everyday items like keys and luggage. The setup process is straightforward, requiring only a compatible iPhone or iPad with Bluetooth and Location Services enabled, and takes just a few minutes to complete and configure.Read more →
CNET...9 Ways You’re Using Your Exercise Bike Wrong, According to Cycling ProsThe article provides comprehensive guidance on proper exercise bike usage, covering critical setup adjustments like seat height and handlebar positioning, as well as workout structuring principles. Key mistakes to avoid include improper bike configuration, skipping warm-ups and cool-downs, inconsistent training strategies, and neglecting bike maintenance.Read more →
CNET...I Switched to a Smart Induction Stove. Here's Why I'm Never Going BackA tech reviewer details their transition from gas to induction cooking after over a year of use, highlighting improvements in air quality, speed, energy efficiency, and ease of cleanup. The Samsung Bespoke Smart Induction Range offers faster heating, precise temperature control, smart home integration for remote monitoring, and a virtually maintenance-free cooktop surface, though some premium features like the internal oven camera prove less useful than expected.Read more →
CNET...Xbox Cloud Gaming Ad-Supported Tier: When Does It Start, How Much Will It Cost and MoreMicrosoft is preparing to launch an ad-supported tier for Xbox Cloud Gaming, potentially arriving this year with free access but limited play sessions. The tier would feature 1-hour play sessions with mandatory ads, though specific game availability and final pricing details remain unconfirmed.Read more →
CNET...We Retested Every Meal Kit Service. This Underdog Is Our New Favorite in 2026Marley Spoon, backed by Martha Stewart, has emerged as a top meal kit service offering creative, gourmet recipes that remain accessible to home cooks of varying skill levels. The service distinguishes itself through high-quality ingredients, thoughtful recipe curation, and flexibility in meal selection, making it ideal for food enthusiasts seeking to elevate their weeknight dining without requiring advanced culinary skills.Read more →
CNET...Blender, Food Processor and Stand Mixer: What's the Difference and Do You Need All 3?This article explains the functional differences between three common kitchen appliances: blenders, which liquefy ingredients through rapid blade rotation; food processors, which chop and process solid ingredients with various attachments; and stand mixers, which gently combine ingredients without breaking them down. Understanding these distinctions helps cooks select the right tool for specific recipes and justify kitchen appliance purchases.Read more →
Engadget...The best VR headsets for 2026Modern VR headsets have evolved into serious platforms for gaming, fitness, and creative work, offering improved immersion through sharper displays, wider fields of view, and better tracking systems. The article reviews the best VR headsets for 2026, evaluating them based on ergonomics, immersion quality, and controller design, while noting that different headsets serve different needs ranging from standalone ease-of-use to high-fidelity PC-connected experiences.Read more →
Gizmodo...Yacht Havers Are Losing Access to Teak Because it Funded Myanmar’s JuntaLuxury yacht manufacturers have historically used teak wood despite import bans in the US, UK, and EU since 2021 due to connections to Myanmar's military junta and deforestation. The industry is now shifting to alternative materials as pre-sanctions teak stockpiles deplete, though enforcement has been limited with fines proving negligible compared to yacht costs.Read more →
TechCrunch...Exclusive: Positron raises $230M Series B to take on Nvidia’s AI chipsSemiconductor startup Positron has raised $230 million in Series B funding led by Qatar's sovereign wealth fund to accelerate deployment of high-speed memory chips designed for AI workloads. The company's Atlas chip aims to match Nvidia H100 GPU performance while using less than a third of the power, positioning Positron to capture growing demand for AI inference hardware as major hyperscalers and firms like OpenAI seek alternatives to Nvidia.Read more →
Engadget...How to buy a GPU in 2026This comprehensive GPU buying guide helps consumers navigate the competitive graphics card market by explaining key factors like game types, resolution/refresh rate targets, ray tracing capabilities, upscaling technologies (DLSS, FSR), and VRAM requirements. The article recommends balancing performance with budget constraints, notes that AMD and Intel currently offer better value than NVIDIA's 2025 RTX 50 series, and suggests waiting to purchase until memory shortage prices stabilize.Read more →
Engadget...AMD suggests the next-gen Xbox will arrive in 2027AMD CEO Lisa Su revealed that Microsoft is developing a next-generation Xbox console with AMD's semi-custom processors, with a targeted launch in 2027. The partnership focuses on co-engineered silicon and integrating AI and machine learning capabilities into future Xbox games and potentially handheld devices.Read more →
CNET...My Experience With United's Starlink Service: How All In-Flight Wi-Fi Should BeUnited Airlines has begun equipping its mainline Boeing 737-800 aircraft with Starlink satellite Wi-Fi, offering passengers download speeds around 250Mbps—significantly faster than traditional in-flight internet systems. The service provides gate-to-gate connectivity and is being rolled out to 25% of United's fleet in 2025, with plans to reach 500 aircraft by 2026, fundamentally improving the in-flight internet experience for travelers.Read more →
CNET...'Fallout' Season 2 Ending Explained: Dissecting the Biggest Moments From the FinaleFallout season 2 concludes with major character resolutions as Maximus finds Lucy, Lucy confronts her father Hank's sinister experiments, and the Ghoul discovers clues about his missing family, setting up a larger conflict involving the mysterious Enclave faction. Amazon has already renewed the series for season 3, with the finale teasing an impending war in New Vegas and the Brotherhood of Steel's acquisition of Liberty Prime Alpha, a powerful combat robot from before the apocalypse.Read more →
The Verge...Adobe actually won’t discontinue AnimateAdobe reversed its decision to discontinue Animate, moving it to maintenance mode indefinitely instead. The application will receive ongoing security and bug fixes while remaining available to new and existing users, though it will not receive new feature updates.Read more →
CNET...Dyson's Thinnest and Lightest Cordless Vacuum Ever Is Finally Ready to Buy in the USDyson has launched the PencilVac, a cordless vacuum weighing just 4 pounds with a distinctive pencil-thin design (1.5 inches wide) that prioritizes maneuverability and ease of use. The $599 vacuum features innovative dust compression technology, dual FluffyCone cleaner heads to prevent hair wrap, and unique LED lighting, though its 55 air watts of suction is significantly lower than premium models like the V15 Detect Absolute.Read more →
Gizmodo...Not So Fast, Google: That Lenient Monopoly Ruling from Last Year Is Being AppealedThe Justice Department and multiple states have appealed a September 2024 ruling that found Google to be a monopolist but imposed only minimal penalties, including data sharing requirements and slight limitations on exclusivity deals. The appeal offers a theoretical opportunity for stricter remedies like forcing the sale of Chrome or banning Google's lucrative search engine default deals with Apple and Samsung, though legal experts consider meaningful consequences unlikely given historical patterns.Read more →
CNET...If You're Attending a Protest, Here's How to Be Smart With Your PhoneThis article provides practical security guidance for protesters to protect their mobile devices from law enforcement surveillance and data confiscation. It covers essential steps including enabling encryption, disabling location services, managing biometric unlocking features, and using burner phones, while addressing the legal and technical aspects of device privacy during mass demonstrations.Read more →
TechCrunch...Epstein-linked longevity guru Peter Attia leaves David Protein, and his own startup ‘won’t comment’Dr. Peter Attia, a prominent longevity physician and Chief Science Officer at nutrition startup David Protein, stepped down from his role following the release of documents showing email correspondence with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Attia denied criminal involvement or visiting Epstein's properties but acknowledged crude content in the emails, prompting the company to distance itself from him amid reputational concerns.Read more →
The Verge...Republicans haul Netflix before Congress for being too ‘woke’A Republican senator criticized Netflix for producing what he characterized as excessively progressive content. The comment reflects ongoing political debates about the entertainment industry's content choices and representation.Read more →
Gizmodo...We’re Nowhere Near Ready to Make Babies in Space, Experts WarnExperts argue that protecting astronauts' reproductive health is critical for long-term human space exploration, as radiation and microgravity pose significant risks to fertility and fetal development. A new framework is needed to address biological, ethical, and health hazards before humanity expands missions to the Moon and Mars.Read more →
Engadget...DOJ and states appeal Google monopoly ruling to push for harsher penalties against the companyThe US Department of Justice has filed a cross-appeal challenging a judge's decision not to require Google to divest its Chrome browser despite the company being ruled to have a monopoly. The appeal seeks to overturn the ruling that blocked forced divestiture, though Google will still face other restrictions including ending exclusive distribution deals and sharing search data with competitors.Read more →
CNET...Liene's PixiCut S1 Is a Very Cool Sticker Printer Looking for an AudienceThe Liene PixiCut S1 is a portable sticker printer under $300 that prints and cuts stickers in minutes using a built-in blade and intuitive mobile app. While it produces high-quality, durable stickers superior to Cricut alternatives, it suffers from inconsistent cutting precision and fume emissions, making it best suited for casual creators rather than professionals or high-volume producers.Read more →
TechCrunch...India’s Varaha bags $20M to scale carbon removal from the Global SouthVaraha, an India-based climate tech startup, has raised $20 million in Series B funding to scale carbon removal projects across Asia and Africa. The company leverages lower operating costs and technical talent in emerging markets to deliver verified emissions reductions at competitive prices compared to European and North American competitors, targeting corporate buyers facing growing energy demands from data centers and AI workloads.Read more →
The Verge...AMD hints Microsoft could launch its next-gen Xbox in 2027AMD has announced its readiness to support Microsoft in launching the next generation Xbox console potentially as early as next year. This collaboration indicates that AMD's chip technology will continue powering Microsoft's gaming hardware platform.Read more →
Engadget...ChatGPT is back up after an outage disrupted use this afternoonChatGPT experienced a partial outage affecting thousands of users this afternoon, with OpenAI reporting elevated error rates that were resolved by 5:14 PM ET. Anthropic's Claude also encountered similar API issues that were resolved earlier in the day, though OpenAI's fine-tuning API component remained under monitoring.Read more →
CNET...Mozilla Adds Option to Disable New AI Features Coming to Firefox BrowserMozilla Firefox is introducing optional AI features in version 148 releasing February 24, including an AI chatbot sidebar, translation, PDF summaries, and tab grouping suggestions. All AI capabilities will have toggles allowing users to disable them entirely, reflecting Mozilla's commitment to user choice and privacy-first design.Read more →
Gizmodo...The Scripts for David Lynch’s Never-Made Netflix Pitch May Soon Be PublishedDavid Lynch's unrealized Netflix project 'Unrecorded Night' may be published as scripts by his family and collaborators as a tribute to the legendary filmmaker. Jennifer Lynch announced plans to release the scripts to fans while discouraging unauthorized versions, with longtime producer Sabrina Sutherland confirming similar intentions.Read more →
CNET...Best MacBooks We’ve Tested (February 2026)This CNET article reviews Apple's current MacBook lineup, comparing the MacBook Air and MacBook Pro models across various specifications including processor, display, price, and performance. The article provides detailed recommendations for different user types, noting that the 15-inch M4 MacBook Air offers the best balance of performance, portability, and price for most consumers, while Pro models cater to creative professionals requiring greater processing power.Read more →
CNET...I've Tried Dozens of Cordless Vacuums--Dyson's PencilVac Is the Sleekest YetDyson's new PencilVac is an ultra-lightweight cordless vacuum weighing under 4 pounds with a pencil-like design, featuring innovative conical brush heads that prevent hair tangling and a dust compression system that packs five times more debris into a small 0.08-liter bin. While offering excellent maneuverability and convenience features like MyDyson app connectivity and LED dust detection, its small dustbin capacity and light-duty design make it better suited as a supplementary vacuum for quick cleanups rather than a primary household cleaner.Read more →
CNET...French Police Search X Offices in Paris as UK Launches Investigation Into GrokFrench prosecutors are investigating X and its leadership for allegedly distributing sexually explicit deepfakes and Holocaust denial content, with Elon Musk and former CEO Linda Yaccarino summoned for questioning in April. Simultaneously, UK and EU regulators are investigating the xAI chatbot Grok for generating non-consensual sexual imagery, including of minors.Read more →
The Verge...Department of Justice appeals Google search monopoly rulingThe Department of Justice filed a cross-appeal in its antitrust case against Google, challenging the remedies ordered by Judge Amit Mehta. The DOJ's action comes weeks after Google filed its own appeal, indicating neither party is satisfied with the remedies requiring data sharing with competitors and restrictions on exclusive distribution deals.Read more →
Engadget...Take-Two hit pause on the Switch 2 port of Borderlands 4Take-Two has indefinitely paused development on Borderlands 4 for Nintendo Switch 2, originally scheduled for October 2025, to focus on post-launch content and optimization for other platforms. The company remains committed to bringing future titles to Switch 2 while Grand Theft Auto VI maintains its November 2026 release date.Read more →
The Verge...Slopaganda goes WestRight-wing provocateur Nick Shirley, who previously triggered federal immigration enforcement responses in Minneapolis, is reportedly attempting similar tactics in San Diego. The article suggests a pattern of deliberately inciting government responses through controversial actions.Read more →
CNET...Spain Follows Australia in Banning Children From Social Media. Crackdown Could Begin Next WeekSpain announced plans to ban children under 16 from popular messaging and social media apps, with legislation potentially taking effect within a week through mandatory age-verification systems. The move is part of a broader regulatory framework addressing algorithmic amplification, platform accountability, and child protection from online harms, following similar legislation passed in Australia and under consideration across Europe.Read more →
TechCrunch...The Minneapolis tech community holds strong during ‘tense and difficult time’Intense immigration enforcement operations in Minneapolis are severely disrupting the tech community, with founders and investors pausing business activities to assist vulnerable neighbors and community members. The deployment of over 3,000 federal agents has created widespread fear and trauma, prompting tech leaders to volunteer, donate, and support those afraid to leave their homes, while criticism mounts against corporate leaders for inadequate responses.Read more →
Gizmodo...Brandon Sanderson Reveals His Journey to Make a ‘Cosmere’ AdaptationApple TV has secured adaptation rights to Brandon Sanderson's Cosmere novels, with a Mistborn movie and Stormlight Archive TV series in development. Sanderson will maintain significant creative control including writing, producing, and cast approval, with the adaptations expected to impact but not derail his writing schedule, as he has already allocated time for the projects.Read more →
Gizmodo...Spain to Ban Under-16s on Social Media as the World Goes All in on Age VerificationSpain and Greece are implementing social media bans for children under 16 and 15 respectively, following Australia's 2024 precedent to protect minors from cyberbullying, harmful content, and self-harm material. The trend is spreading globally with France, Denmark, Malaysia, and the U.K. introducing similar age-restriction measures, though facing legal challenges from civil liberties groups citing freedom of speech concerns.Read more →
Gizmodo...Meta’s Quest 3 Has the First VR Keyboard That Doesn’t Totally SuckMeta's new Surface Keyboard feature for Quest 3 significantly improves typing in VR/XR by allowing users to type on real surfaces using hand tracking instead of tedious controller or hand-tracking methods. The feature leverages Quest 3's external cameras to create a virtual keyboard overlay, delivering faster and more accurate typing that's comparable to physical keyboard experiences, though the accompanying trackpad still needs refinement.Read more →
Gizmodo...The 3-Body Problem Just Got an Upgrade—and You Can Thank EinsteinA new study explains the scarcity of circumbinary exoplanets (planets orbiting binary star systems) by demonstrating that general relativity's effects on three-body gravitational interactions cause such planets to either collide with their host stars or be ejected from the system. The research analyzed how relativistic forces gradually reshape binary star orbits over millions of years, creating an instability zone that destabilizes or removes planets that form around tight binary systems.Read more →
CNET...'High Potential' Hulu Release Schedule: How to Watch Season 2, Episode 12High Potential, an ABC crime drama starring Kaitlin Olson, has resumed Season 2 with regular weekly episodes following a midseason break. The show follows a single mother with exceptional cognitive abilities working as a consultant for the Los Angeles Police Department, and new episodes continue to air on ABC before streaming on Hulu.Read more →
The Verge...Borderlands 4 for Switch 2 is on ‘pause’Take-Two has paused development on the Nintendo Switch 2 version of Borderlands 4, citing a need to focus on post-launch content and game optimization for existing platforms. The company remains committed to Nintendo Switch 2 with other titles like PGA Tour 2K25 and WWE 2K26 in development, while maintaining its November 2026 release target for Grand Theft Auto VI.Read more →
Gizmodo...All the Messy Drama Between OpenAI and Nvidia, ExplainedOpenAI and Nvidia are experiencing tensions over their $100 billion investment deal, with Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang privately criticizing OpenAI's business approach while OpenAI seeks alternative chip providers like Cerebras and Groq due to concerns about Nvidia's inference capabilities. The rift reflects broader competitive pressures from Google's custom AI chips and Anthropic, prompting both companies to publicly reaffirm their partnership while privately pursuing contingency strategies.Read more →
CNET...When AI Bots Form Their Own Social Network: Inside Moltbook's Wild StartMoltbook, a social platform exclusively for AI agents built on the OpenClaw framework, has rapidly grown to 1.5 million active agents within weeks of launch. The platform has become a fascinating case study in emergent AI behavior, with agents forming communities, developing shared culture and inside jokes, and engaging in economic exchanges, though it raises significant security and verification concerns regarding autonomous agent coordination without direct human oversight.Read more →
Gizmodo...Melinda French Gates Appears to Confirm Divorce With Bill Was Related to EpsteinMelinda French Gates confirmed in an NPR interview that her ex-husband Bill Gates' interactions with Jeffrey Epstein were a factor in their 2021 divorce, expressing sadness about the situation and allegations contained in newly released Epstein files. Bill Gates' representatives deny the allegations as false, stating the documents reflect Epstein's frustration over a lack of ongoing relationship with Gates.Read more →
Gizmodo...The Best Gadgets for Throwing a Kick-Ass Super Bowl LX PartyThis article provides tech recommendations for hosting a Super Bowl party, covering everything from display screens to neural headbands and entertainment devices. The author emphasizes that a successful Super Bowl gathering requires the right technology to enhance viewing experience, food preparation, and entertainment regardless of game outcome.Read more →
CNET...Super Bowl LX: Here Are the AI-Related Ads Coming to the Big GameMultiple technology companies are featuring artificial intelligence prominently in their Super Bowl LX advertisements, with brands like Svedka, Wix, OpenAI, and Meta showcasing AI-powered products and capabilities. The ads reflect the industry's broader focus on AI integration across entertainment, website creation, video generation, and wearable technology.Read more →
The Verge...The four best Super Bowl TV deals we foundThe Super Bowl is a prime shopping event for discounted televisions, with options ranging from budget-friendly to premium models. Key considerations include brightness for ambient light, screen size, budget constraints, and specific features like OLED technology or gaming refresh rates, with popular choices including Samsung S95F, LG C5, TCL QM7K, and Hisense U75QG.Read more →
Gizmodo...Universal Successfully Bullied Into Letting Olympian Use ‘Minions’ MusicSpanish figure skater Tomás-Llorenç Guarino Sabaté was initially blocked from performing his Minions-themed Olympic routine due to Universal's copyright concerns, but the company reversed its decision after public outcry and media coverage. His performance is scheduled for February 10 at the Milan Olympics and has generated significant interest due to the viral nature of the dispute.Read more →
CNET...The $500 Check That Kickstarted Apple Just Sold for $2.4 Million. Take a LookA historic $500 check signed by Steve Jobs and Steve Wozniak in 1976 sold for $2.4 million at an auction marking Apple's 50th anniversary. The check, one of the earliest transactions in Apple's founding, was used to pay circuit board designer Howard Cantin for converting Wozniak's Apple-1 schematic into a manufacturable design.Read more →
Engadget...ChatGPT is down for many users this afternoonChatGPT experienced a significant partial outage affecting many users, with Down Detector reporting over 12,000 incident reports around 3PM ET. OpenAI confirmed elevated error rates across all 13 ChatGPT components and indicated the team was working on a mitigation without providing a resolution timeline.Read more →
TechCrunch...Intel will start making GPUs, a market dominated by NvidiaIntel CEO Lip-Bu Tan announced the company will begin producing graphics processing units (GPUs) to compete with Nvidia's dominant market position in AI and gaming chips. The initiative, led by executives recently hired from competitors, is still in early stages and will be shaped by customer demands.Read more →
CNET...HBO Max: The 26 Absolute Best Movies to WatchThis article provides HBO Max viewers with curated recommendations across multiple genres, including new January releases like The Smashing Machine and If I Had Legs I'd Kick You, alongside popular films such as Dune, Superman, and Barbie. The guide aims to help subscribers discover quality content spanning drama, action, comedy, and documentary genres available on the streaming platform.Read more →
The Verge...Elon Musk is merging SpaceX and xAI to build data centers in space — or so he saysElon Musk announced a merger of SpaceX and xAI valued at $1.25 trillion, citing the need for space-based data centers to power AI infrastructure sustainably. The move appears to be a strategic financial decision to stabilize xAI, which is burning approximately $1 billion monthly, by leveraging SpaceX's profitability and Starlink infrastructure, though the technical and economic viability of orbital data centers remains uncertain.Read more →
Gizmodo...Sam Altman Expects to Get What He WantsOpenAI CEO Sam Altman faced public criticism from Nvidia's leadership over chip dissatisfaction, revealing potential fissures in the AI industry's most prominent partnership. The article examines Altman's track record of getting his way through persuasion and aggressive expansion, but questions whether his scattered focus across 400+ investments and numerous product directions is sustainable as OpenAI faces mounting financial pressures and potential cash depletion by 2027.Read more →
CNET...Today's NYT Connections: Sports Edition Hints and Answers for Feb. 4, #499This article provides hints and answers for the New York Times Connections: Sports Edition puzzle, a subscription-based word game published by The Athletic. The puzzle features four categories related to sports terminology, including words meaning smooth wins, fantasy sports trading options, sports playing areas, and Orlando Magic roster members.Read more →
Gizmodo...The Big ChromeOS and Android Merger May Be Google’s Last Walled GardenGoogle is developing 'Aluminum,' a new operating system that merges ChromeOS with Android to enable direct execution of Android apps on Chromebooks, potentially launching between 2026 and 2028. The merger aims to break ChromeOS's dependence on the Chrome browser and web-based applications, though exact compatibility details and device support remain unclear.Read more →
CNET...Free Movies Coming in February 2026 to Tubi, Pluto TV and MoreFree streaming platforms Tubi, Kanopy, and Pluto TV are adding hundreds of new films and TV shows in February, offering viewers a cost-free alternative to paid subscription services with releases including original content, classic movies, and indie films. The platforms are positioning themselves as increasingly attractive options as consumers face mounting price increases from major streaming providers.Read more →
Gizmodo...‘Starfleet Academy’ Sneakily Brought Some More ‘Star Trek Online’ Ships to TVStar Trek: Starfleet Academy has incorporated three ship designs from Star Trek Online into television canon, marking the first Klingon-aligned vessels from the MMO to appear on screen. The ships debut in the 32nd-century setting as part of a storyline addressing the Klingon Empire's fall and extinction crisis, continuing a trend that began with Picard's integration of STO designs into the TV franchise.Read more →
The Verge...Microsoft says it’s building an app store for AI content licensingA new Publisher Content Marketplace is being developed to streamline how AI companies acquire and pay for premium content from publishers. This initiative aims to create a standardized platform for content licensing, potentially addressing concerns about fair compensation for original works used in AI training and products.Read more →
Engadget...Apple just made Xcode better for vibe codingApple released Xcode 26.3 with expanded AI coding agent support, enabling Claude and ChatGPT to access documentation, file structures, and project settings within the IDE through Model Context Protocol (MCP) servers. This enhancement allows developers to integrate various coding agents directly into Xcode's terminal, improving development efficiency and streamlining workflows.Read more →
TechCrunch...YC startups can now recieve investment in stablecoinY Combinator will allow its portfolio startups to receive seed funding via stablecoins on Base, Solana, and Ethereum blockchains, starting with the spring batch. The move aims to benefit founders in emerging markets and signals YC's commitment to supporting blockchain-focused companies following its partnership with Base and Coinbase Ventures.Read more →
Gizmodo...Check Out 10 Weird and Wonderful Finalists for the ‘Pulitzer of the New Instrument World’Georgia Tech's Guthman Musical Instrument Competition announced its 10 finalists, showcasing innovative instruments ranging from hybrid acoustic-electric designs like the EV viola to conceptual creations such as the Demon Box that amplifies electromagnetic frequencies from everyday electronics. The competition, now in its 28th year, continues to identify groundbreaking musical instrument innovations with a $10,000 prize, having produced successful companies like Roli and Teenage Engineering among its past winners.Read more →
CNET...Elon Musk's SpaceX Is Acquiring xAI With Big Plans for Data Centers in SpaceSpaceX has acquired Elon Musk's AI company xAI in what could be valued at $1-1.5 trillion, creating a vertically integrated entity combining rockets, satellites, AI, and the X platform. The merger aims to build space-based data centers powered by solar energy to train AI models more cost-effectively than Earth-based facilities, with Musk projecting space-based compute will be the lowest-cost option within 2-3 years.Read more →
Engadget...Obsidian has no plans to make The Outer Worlds 3, likely due to poor salesObsidian Entertainment has cancelled plans for The Outer Worlds 3, citing disappointing performance of the sequel and a need to reassess development spending and timelines. The studio is refocusing on DLC support for existing titles and plans to continue the Avowed franchise, while acknowledging that releasing three games in one year strained resources and impacted quality.Read more →
Gizmodo...While the World Waits for ‘Doctor Who’ to Return, the BBC Is Selling Off Some Major PropsThe BBC has announced an online auction of over 300 Doctor Who props and costumes from across the show's history, spanning from David Tennant's Tenth Doctor through Ncuti Gatwa's Fifteenth Doctor. The auction, running through February 19 with lots starting at £100, includes iconic items such as screen-matched TARDISes, Cybermen, Daleks, and memorable character costumes, with 20% of proceeds supporting BBC Children in Need.Read more →
The Verge...Apple’s Xcode adds OpenAI and Anthropic’s coding agentsDevelopers can now leverage Anthropic's Claude Agent and OpenAI's Codex to automate actions within Xcode, enhancing development productivity through AI-assisted code generation and task automation. This integration enables developers to delegate routine coding tasks and actions directly within their development environment.Read more →
TechCrunch...2026 plans: What’s next for Startup Battlefield 200TechCrunch Startup Battlefield 200 is opening applications for its 2026 cohort, a highly selective program that selects 200 early-stage startups globally to gain visibility, investor access, and networking opportunities. The program offers free exhibit space, direct press and investor exposure, and a chance to compete for a $100,000 equity-free prize, with alumni including major successes like Dropbox, Discord, and Cloudflare that have collectively raised over $32 billion.Read more →
TechCrunch...Homeland Security is trying to force tech companies to hand over data about Trump criticsThe Department of Homeland Security has been using administrative subpoenas to demand tech companies reveal the identities of individuals running anonymous social media accounts critical of the Trump administration and documenting immigration enforcement activities. Unlike judicial subpoenas, these administrative demands bypass court oversight and have targeted activists, protesters, and documented immigration critics, with companies including Meta and Google pushing back against the requests.Read more →
Gizmodo...CDC Refuses to Take Blame for Measles Spiraling out of ControlThe United States is experiencing a measles resurgence with over 2,220 cases in 2024 and 847 ongoing cases in South Carolina, with three deaths reported. The CDC is downplaying the outbreak despite declining vaccination rates under RFK Jr.'s leadership, who has actively worked to restrict vaccine access and undermine public health agencies.Read more →
TechCrunch...Skyryse lands another $300M to make flying, even helicopters, simple and safeSkyryse, an aviation automation startup, raised over $300 million in Series C funding, achieving unicorn status with a $1.15 billion valuation. The capital will accelerate its FAA certification process for SkyOS, a flight control system that automates complex flying tasks while requiring pilot oversight, and enable integration across military helicopters and other aircraft.Read more →
Gizmodo...It’s Monster on Monster on Monster in the New ‘Monarch’ Season 2 TrailerMonarch: Legacy of Monsters season two introduces Titan X, a mysterious and powerful new creature emerging from the ocean that threatens both Godzilla and King Kong. The season explores how this ancient force impacts the world and the relationships between characters across two generations as they attempt to stop this existential threat.Read more →
CNET...iPhone Fold: Launch Date, Price, Huge Battery and Everything We KnowApple is rumored to be developing a foldable iPhone with a book-style design that could launch in 2026, featuring a crease-free 7.8-inch inner display and potentially 12GB of RAM. If released, the device could significantly boost the foldable phone market, with analysts forecasting 30% year-over-year growth, though its $2,000-$2,500 price tag positions it at the premium end of the foldable market.Read more →
The Verge...The best deals on MacBooks right nowApple's latest MacBook lineup, featuring M4 and M5 processors with increased base RAM configurations, is now available with various discounts ranging from $50 to $300 off across different models. The newest M4 MacBook Air starts at a lower price than its predecessor while offering improved performance and doubled base RAM, while M4 and M5 MacBook Pro models include enhanced connectivity features and upgraded webcams.Read more →
CNET...Winter Olympics 2026: How to Watch the Games Without CableThe 2026 Winter Olympics will take place in Milan and Cortina d'Ampezzo, Italy from February 4-22, featuring the most geographically spread competition in Winter Olympic history. Major streaming options in the US include Peacock with 4K coverage and NBC's linear broadcasts across multiple networks, with all events available live and on-demand.Read more →
TechCrunch...Agentic coding comes to Apple’s Xcode with agents from Anthropic and OpenAIApple released Xcode 26.3 with integrated agentic coding tools, including Claude Agent and OpenAI's Codex, enabling AI models to perform complex development tasks directly within the IDE. The agents can explore projects, understand structure, build code, run tests, and fix errors with full access to Apple's documentation and transparent step-by-step task breakdown for developers.Read more →
TechCrunch...Xcode moves into agentic coding with deeper OpenAI and Anthropic integrationsApple has released Xcode 26.3 with integrated agentic coding capabilities, allowing developers to use Claude Agent and OpenAI's Codex directly in the IDE to automate tasks like project exploration, building, testing, and code generation. The integration uses the Model Context Protocol (MCP) to provide agents access to Xcode's features, documentation, and developer frameworks, with transparent step-by-step task breakdown and easy code reversion.Read more →
TechCrunch...Gradient’s heat pumps get new smarts to enable old building retrofitsGradient, a startup, has developed networked window-mounted heat pumps with new Nexus software that allows building managers to control temperature across multifamily buildings, reducing energy consumption while maintaining comfort. The solution targets older buildings with outdated HVAC systems, offering quick installation without electrical upgrades and enabling grid demand response to support broader electrification efforts.Read more →
Gizmodo...Is Lead Exposure Really Declining? A Century of Hair Holds the AnswerResearchers analyzed hair samples from Utah spanning 100 years to track lead exposure, finding that lead levels were approximately 100 times higher before the EPA's establishment in 1970 compared to after environmental regulations were implemented. The study demonstrates the dramatic effectiveness of EPA regulations in reducing environmental lead contamination, with concentrations dropping from 100 parts per million in the 1970s to below 1 ppm by recent decades.Read more →
Engadget...Sony's WH-1000XM6 headphones are down to a record-low priceSony's WH-1000XM6 wireless headphones are available at a record-low price of $398 on Amazon, down $62 from the original $460 asking price. The headphones feature advanced active noise cancellation with 12 microphones, new audio drivers for superior sound quality, a comfortable design, and approximately 30 hours of battery life.Read more →
TechCrunch...Watch Club is producing short video dramas and building a social network around themWatch Club, founded by former Meta product manager Henry Soong, is launching a microdrama app that differentiates itself from competitors like ReelShort and DramaBox by featuring content created by SAG and WGA union talent and embedding social networking features to foster fan communities. The startup secured seed funding led by GV and aims to prove that high-quality storytelling can compete with existing microdrama apps that generate billions in revenue through formulaic, AI-adjacent content.Read more →
Engadget...Fitbit founders launch Luffu, a way to integrate your family's health dataFitbit's former founders James Park and Eric Friedman launched Luffu, a new mobile app that uses AI to aggregate and manage family health information across multiple generations. The platform targets family caregivers managing health data for children, aging parents, and pets, with features including voice/text/photo logging, plain language queries, and integration with existing health platforms like Apple Health.Read more →
CNET...Best Sports Streaming Service for 2026This CNET guide compares major sports streaming services available in 2026, including YouTube TV, Peacock, Hulu Plus Live TV, ESPN Unlimited, DirecTV, Fubo, Sling TV, and Paramount Plus. Sports fans must subscribe to multiple services to access all desired games due to fragmented broadcasting rights, though services offer flexibility with no long-term contracts and various pricing tiers.Read more →
Gizmodo...Jupiter’s New Measurements: Flatter, Squashed, Still the Biggest BoyNew measurements from NASA's Juno spacecraft reveal that Jupiter is approximately 5 miles slimmer at the equator and 15 miles flatter at the poles than previously estimated based on 1970s Pioneer and Voyager data. These refined measurements, which account for Jupiter's atmospheric dynamics, improve scientific models of the planet's interior and have implications for studying gas giants throughout the solar system.Read more →
Gizmodo...The Director of ‘Wall-E’ Has a New Movie That Looks Like a Mini ‘Cloud Atlas’Director Andrew Stanton's live-action film 'In the Blink of an Eye,' starring Rashida Jones and Kate McKinnon, follows three interconnected storylines spanning millennia and explores themes of hope and human connection. The film is bypassing theatrical release for a direct-to-streaming debut on Hulu and Disney+, arriving later this month despite receiving mixed reviews at Sundance Film Festival.Read more →
TechCrunch...Lotus Health nabs $35M for AI doctor that sees patients for freeLotus Health AI, a free AI-powered primary care platform launched in May 2024, raised $35 million in Series A funding to expand its telemedicine service that operates in 50 states and 50 languages. The platform uses AI to conduct initial diagnoses and generate treatment plans, with board-certified physicians from top institutions like Stanford and Harvard reviewing all medical decisions before implementation, addressing AI hallucination risks while dramatically increasing patient capacity.Read more →
The Verge...French police raid X's Paris office as UK investigation continuesParis prosecutors have summoned Elon Musk and Linda Yaccarino to testify as investigations into Grok, X's AI chatbot, expand. The summons indicates escalating legal scrutiny into the AI system's operations and potential regulatory violations.Read more →
CNET...Google Pixel 10A Rumors: Everything We Know So FarGoogle's Pixel 10A budget smartphone is rumored to launch in mid-February with four color options. The device is expected to feature a boosted Tensor G4 processor from the Pixel 9 line rather than the newer Tensor G5, differentiating it from the flagship Pixel 10 while maintaining a flat design without a raised camera bump.Read more →
Engadget...The best gifts for coffee lovers in 2026This article is a gift guide featuring premium coffee brewing equipment and accessories for enthusiasts, ranging from budget-friendly options like cold brew makers to high-end espresso machines and smart brewers. The recommendations emphasize quality construction, brewing versatility, and innovative features designed to enhance the at-home coffee experience.Read more →
The Verge...The Switch is Nintendo's best-selling console — and its most transformativeNintendo's Switch console has become the company's best-selling console ever with 155 million units sold, enabling it to consolidate its game development divisions and produce consistent hit titles. Leveraging this success, Nintendo has expanded into film, theme parks, and entertainment ventures, transforming itself from primarily a gaming company into a broader entertainment conglomerate similar to Disney and Netflix.Read more →
Engadget...How much do VPNs cost?This article provides a comprehensive pricing analysis of virtual private networks, showing that monthly VPN subscriptions average $11.77 while yearly plans average $57.69. The article explains that VPN pricing varies due to subscription length, infrastructure maintenance costs, and competitive positioning, while warning against free VPNs due to security risks and data privacy concerns.Read more →
TechCrunch...French police search X office in Paris, summons Elon Musk for questioningFrench police and Europol conducted a raid on X's Paris office as part of an investigation into alleged fraudulent data extraction and misuse of the platform's Grok AI system for generating non-consensual imagery, including child abuse material. The investigation has expanded to include charges of data privacy violations, distribution of child sexual abuse material, and Holocaust denial, with Elon Musk and former CEO Linda Yaccarino scheduled for questioning.Read more →
TechCrunch...French police search X office in Paris, summon Elon Musk for questioningFrench police and Europol raided X's Paris office as part of an investigation into alleged fraudulent data extraction and expanded allegations including child sexual abuse material distribution and privacy violations. The investigation intensified following widespread criticism of X's Grok AI being used to generate nonconsensual imagery, with Elon Musk and former CEO Linda Yaccarino scheduled for questioning in April.Read more →
Gizmodo...More Corruption Allegations Levied at Trump Over Newly Revealed UAE Crypto DealAn investment firm linked to UAE National Security Adviser Sheikh Tahnoon bin Zayed Al Nahyan invested $500 million in Trump-affiliated crypto venture World Liberty Financial, with $187 million already received by Trump family entities. The deal has drawn corruption allegations from U.S. lawmakers, particularly given the UAE's simultaneous acquisition of advanced Nvidia AI chips after the Biden administration had previously blocked such sales on national security grounds.Read more →
Gizmodo...Nothing May Drop a Cheaper Phone and Headphones SoonNothing is preparing to launch the Headphone A, a budget-friendly headphone model priced at 159 euros (roughly half the cost of Headphone 1), alongside the Phone 4a and 4a Pro smartphones scheduled for March 5 announcement. The new devices will feature design updates, storage improvements, and battery enhancements, though prices for the phones are expected to increase from previous generation models.Read more →
Engadget...Disney announces Josh D’Amaro will be its new CEO after Iger departsDisney has announced Josh D'Amaro, current chairman of Disney Experiences, as the successor to CEO Bob Iger effective in March. D'Amaro brings 28 years of Disney experience overseeing theme parks, cruises, and consumer products, following a leadership search that began in 2023 after Bob Iger's return to the CEO role in 2022.Read more →
Gizmodo...Stephen Colbert’s ‘Starfleet Academy’ Role Is Driving Me NutsThe article critiques Stephen Colbert's recurring voice role as the Digital Dean of Students on Paramount+'s Starfleet Academy, arguing that while the show otherwise engages thoughtfully with Star Trek's legacy, Colbert's character feels superficial and relies on cheap reference humor that undermines the series' deeper approach to the franchise.Read more →
Gizmodo...Paris Authorities Raid the Offices of Elon Musk’s XEuropean authorities are escalating investigations into X following a raid on its Paris offices by prosecutors and Europol. The probe, which began examining algorithm manipulation and illegal data extraction, has expanded to include concerns about non-consensual sexual imagery involving minors, deepfakes, and Holocaust denial content, with summonses issued to Elon Musk and former CEO Linda Yaccarino for an April hearing.Read more →
TechCrunch...What tech CEOs and executives have said about ICE’s actions in MinnesotaThe Trump administration's immigration enforcement has resulted in multiple deaths, including U.S. citizens, prompting tech industry leaders to respond with varying degrees of criticism. While some executives like Reid Hoffman and Vinod Khosla have called for stronger opposition to ICE operations, others including Sam Altman and Tim Cook have taken more cautious stances despite their political influence.Read more →
CNET...An Expert Explains Why You Can Stop Worrying About How Much Protein You’re EatingA cardiologist explains that protein deficiency is nearly impossible in the US and that most Americans consume adequate protein through a typical diet without supplementation. The article emphasizes that excessive focus on protein goals often causes people to overlook more critical nutritional deficiencies like fiber, iron, and vitamin D, which are more prevalent among Americans.Read more →
Engadget...February’s Xbox Game Pass additions include High on Life 2, Madden NFL 26 and Avatar: Frontiers of PandoraMicrosoft announced the first wave of Xbox Game Pass additions for February, featuring over a dozen new games across multiple genres including Final Fantasy II, Like A Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii, Madden NFL 26, and Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora. The expanded library provides subscribers with diverse gaming options ranging from RPGs and sports titles to co-op adventures, all available at no additional cost.Read more →
The Verge...Claude Code was down, forcing developers to take a long coffee breakAnthropic's Claude AI models experienced a widespread outage affecting Claude Code and other services, causing 500 errors for developers. The company identified and resolved the issue within approximately 20 minutes, though the disruption impacted numerous developers relying on the service, including Microsoft's AI teams.Read more →
Engadget...Samsung Galaxy Unpacked 2026: Everything we're expecting from the S26 launchSamsung is expected to announce the Galaxy S26 lineup at Galaxy Unpacked on February 25, 2026, featuring incremental upgrades including Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chips, slightly larger displays, and improved AI capabilities through partnerships with Perplexity. The event will also showcase the Galaxy Buds 4, Galaxy S26 Edge, and likely highlight the recently launched Galaxy Z TriFold foldable device.Read more →
Engadget...The Dyson PencilVac is finally available and costs $600Dyson's PencilVac stick vacuum is now available in the US for $600, featuring an innovative motor design inspired by the company's Supersonic hair dryer that allows it to be the world's slimmest vacuum cleaner. The device integrates all components including the motor, bin, and filter into a thin cylindrical shaft, with interchangeable attachments and a swappable battery lasting approximately one hour.Read more →
The Verge...I didn’t expect to love Dyson’s PencilVac Fluffycones – but I didDyson's new PencilVac Fluffycones is an exceptionally slim and lightweight cordless stick vacuum priced at $599, featuring a pencil-thin design and innovative fluffy cone rollers that make it highly maneuverable for touch-ups and stairs. While it excels at handling light debris and hard-to-reach areas, its limited suction power and 20-30 minute runtime make it unsuitable as a primary whole-home cleaner, positioning it instead as a stylish complement to robot vacuums.Read more →
Engadget...MSI Prestige 14 Flip AI+ review: An ultraportable for Arc Raiders, thanks to Intel's Panther LakeThe MSI Prestige 14 Flip AI+ is a lightweight ultraportable laptop featuring Intel's new Panther Lake processor with strong gaming and productivity performance, exceptional 22-hour battery life, and versatile 2-in-1 design, but is significantly hindered by a poor mechanical trackpad and keyboard quality. Despite these input device shortcomings, it represents a competitive alternative to Apple's M-series hardware for users seeking gaming capability in a thin-and-light form factor.Read more →
TechCrunch...TikTok recovers from dip in usage that benefited rival apps following U.S. ownership changeTikTok briefly lost users following its ownership change to American investors, with daily active users dropping to 86-88 million from a typical 92 million, prompting some to try alternatives like UpScrolled and Skylight Social. The decline was driven by privacy policy concerns and a data center outage that caused functionality issues, but most users returned once outages resolved and fears subsided, with TikTok recovering to over 90 million daily active users.Read more →
Engadget...The first BTS concert in over three years will stream live on Netflix in MarchNetflix will broadcast BTS's first live performance in nearly four years on March 21, streaming the concert from Seoul's Gwanghwamun Square alongside the group's new album release 'Arirang.' The platform will also premiere a documentary 'BTS: The Return' on March 27, providing behind-the-scenes access to the band's comeback following their military service hiatus.Read more →
TechCrunch...Fitbit founders launch AI platform to help families monitor their healthFitbit founders James Park and Eric Friedman launched Luffu, an AI-powered family health monitoring platform designed to help caregivers track and coordinate health information across family members. The system aggregates health data from multiple sources and uses AI to detect patterns and flag important changes, addressing the growing needs of the 63 million American family caregivers.Read more →
The Verge...Apple’s tiny but mighty iPad Mini is $100 off in every storage configurationApple's iPad Mini is currently discounted to $399 for the 128GB Wi-Fi model, representing a significant savings and near all-time low pricing. The 8.3-inch tablet offers portability comparable to a smartphone, features the A17 Pro chip for multitasking and light gaming, supports Apple Pencil Pro and Apple Intelligence features, making it an attractive mid-size tablet option.Read more →
CNET...These 5 Vital Minerals and Vitamins Will Keep Your Heart Functioning and HealthyDuring American Heart Month, the article reviews vitamins and minerals that may support heart health, including omega-3s, fiber, magnesium, CoQ10, and folic acid. While supplements can help, medical professionals emphasize that obtaining these nutrients through a balanced diet rich in seafood, leafy greens, and whole grains is the most effective approach, with supplementation recommended only after consulting a healthcare provider.Read more →
Engadget...Notepad++ says it was hijacked by Chinese state-sponsored hackersNotepad++ creator revealed that a supply chain attack compromising the editor's update mechanism from June to December 2025 was perpetrated by a Chinese state-sponsored group. The attackers hijacked the hosting provider to selectively redirect certain users to malicious servers, delivering compromised executables that could infect devices.Read more →
CNET...Darren Aronofsky, Your AI Slop Is Ruining American History in 'On This Day…1776'Darren Aronofsky's new AI-generated video series 'On This Day…1776' uses generative AI tools to recreate American Revolution moments, but the result is criticized as soulless AI-generated content with waxy faces, poor lip-syncing, and heavy-handed editing that prioritizes technical showmanship over meaningful storytelling. The series raises questions about AI's role in creative industries and whether blending AI tools with human talent can produce genuine art rather than superficial 'AI slop.'Read more →
The Verge...Millions of books died so Claude could liveChatGPT's November 2022 launch sparked an industry-wide race to develop competitive AI technology, with companies like Anthropic undertaking massive efforts such as 'Project Panama' to digitize books for training large language models, raising significant legal and ethical questions about data sourcing. The episode also discusses Netflix's bid to acquire Warner Bros. and its impact on theatrical releases, plus updates on smart home device compatibility issues.Read more →
Gizmodo...Trump Admin Sued For Defunding the “Most Important Infrastructure Project in the Country”The Gateway Development Commission is suing the Trump administration for withholding $15 billion in federal funding for the Hudson Tunnel project, a critical infrastructure initiative connecting Manhattan and New Jersey. The funding pause, attributed to a review of diversity-related hiring practices, has forced the project to rely on reserves and threatens 11,000 jobs and passenger rail operations if construction halts by Friday.Read more →
Engadget...Spain set to ban social media for children under 16Spain will ban social media access for users under 16 and implement strict regulations on tech platforms, including effective age verification systems and criminal liability for CEOs regarding illegal content. Prime Minister Sanchez cited social media's role in hate speech, child exploitation, and election interference, positioning the ban as necessary protection for young users and part of a broader European governance movement.Read more →
Gizmodo...This May Be the Oldest Known Victim of a Bear Attack—and It’s BrutalResearchers have reinforced evidence that a Gravettian adolescent found in Italy 27,900 years ago, known as 'Il Principe,' was killed by a bear attack, making it potentially the oldest known fatal encounter between humans and wild animals. New analysis of skeletal remains reveals multiple perimortem injuries including mandibular fractures, shoulder trauma, and tooth/skull damage consistent with a mauling, with the individual surviving briefly afterward before succumbing to injuries.Read more →
CNET...Watch These Super Bowl 2026 Ads Before the Big GameThis article previews Super Bowl LX advertisements from various brands including Uber Eats, Pepsi, Svedka, Toyota, and others, highlighting celebrity appearances and creative themes. Notable ads feature Matthew McConaughey and Bradley Cooper, a Svedka vodka commercial created primarily with AI, and various nostalgic and family-oriented campaigns launching around the February 8 game date.Read more →
Gizmodo...Disney’s Theme Parks Chief Is Now Running the Whole ShowDisney appointed Josh D'Amaro as its next CEO effective March 18, 2026, transitioning Bob Iger to an advisory role before his year-end retirement. D'Amaro, who previously led Disney's Experiences division overseeing theme parks, consumer products, and creative ventures, will oversee major 2026 theatrical releases and Disney's new AI integration partnership with OpenAI.Read more →
Engadget...Amazon's Echo Show 8 and 11 are down to new all-time lowsAmazon has reduced prices on its latest Echo Show devices, with the Echo Show 8 dropping to $150 (17% off) and the Echo Show 11 to $180 (18% off), marking new all-time lows. Both devices feature larger screens than their predecessors, custom AI sensors, and enhanced audio capabilities including spatial audio and improved drivers.Read more →
The Verge...China is banning hidden electric door handles for EVsChina is banning Tesla-style concealed door handles on electric vehicles to address safety concerns regarding people getting trapped inside their cars. The ban will take effect on January 1st next year, according to the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology's announcement, and will require all vehicles sold in China to have mechanical release door handles […]Read more →
Gizmodo...Ian McKellen May Have Revealed a Big Magneto Moment in ‘Avengers: Doomsday’This article covers various entertainment industry updates including news about upcoming film and television projects such as the Highlander remake with Henry Cavill, the It Follows sequel in development, and new episodes of Mystery Science Theater 3000 that have exceeded crowdfunding goals. The piece also reports on production announcements for The Institute season two and the upcoming release of A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms episodes.Read more →
The Verge...Fitbit’s founders launch a new platform for monitoring your entire family’s healthFitbit co-founders James Park and Eric Friedman have launched Luffu, an AI-powered family health management system that aggregates medical data from connected devices, health platforms, and family inputs to provide personalized health insights and alerts. The platform uses AI to automatically organize health information, answer family-specific health questions, and proactively monitor for medication adherence and potential health concerns.Read more →
Gizmodo...Well, Astronauts Won’t Be Going Back to the Moon This MonthNASA's Artemis 2 mission has been delayed from its February 8 target launch date due to a liquid hydrogen leak detected during the wet dress rehearsal countdown. The agency will now target March 2025 as the earliest possible launch window, allowing teams time to address the hydrogen leak and other technical issues identified during testing.Read more →
The Verge...Humans are infiltrating the Reddit for AI botsMoltbook, a new social platform designed for AI agents, experienced explosive growth but faced scrutiny when security researchers discovered that many viral posts were likely human-engineered rather than genuinely autonomous AI behavior. The platform also revealed critical security vulnerabilities that could allow attackers to hijack AI agents and access their connected functions and data.Read more →
TechCrunch...PayPal hires HP’s Enrique Lores as its new CEOPayPal hired HP's Enrique Lores as CEO to replace Alex Chriss, citing execution gaps against board expectations amid market headwinds. The leadership change follows disappointing Q4 results with lower-than-expected revenue and profit, triggering a 17.9% premarket stock decline.Read more →
TechCrunch...Peak XV says internal disagreement led to partner exits as it doubles down on AIPeak XV Partners, a major Southeast Asian venture capital firm, experienced senior leadership departures including long-tenured partners who are starting a competing venture firm, amid the company's strategic pivot toward AI investing and U.S. expansion. The departures follow a standout year for Peak XV's portfolio with five companies going public and generating over $3 billion in unrealized gains, while the firm simultaneously promotes internal talent and strengthens its AI-focused investment thesis.Read more →
The Verge...Disney says Josh D'Amaro will replace Bob Iger as CEODisney has picked a successor for longtime CEO Bob Iger. On Tuesday, the entertainment giant announced that its theme parks head, Josh D'Amaro, will take over as CEO on March 18th, 2026. Rumors about Iger's replacement have been swirling for more than a year now. After a 15-year-long tenure as Disney's CEO, Iger returned from […]Read more →
CNET...I Bought the Galaxy Z TriFold for Over $3,000. Follow Along as I Test It (Live Updates)A CNET journalist successfully purchased Samsung's Galaxy Z TriFold during its US launch, which sold out almost immediately at $2,900 despite extremely limited supply. The reviewer will evaluate the foldable phone's practical usability as a phone-tablet hybrid over time.Read more →
The Verge...Call of Duty tries to block XIM and Cronus cheaters againActivision has shifted its anti-cheat detection approach to monitor actual player inputs rather than identifying third-party devices being used. This method aims to catch cheaters through their suspicious input patterns while reducing false positives from legitimate device users.Read more →
CNET...I Stuck My Face Into Nintendo's New Virtual Boy and Felt Oddly ComfortedNintendo is reviving the Virtual Boy as a $100 tabletop viewer accessory for the Nintendo Switch, allowing players to experience retro 3D games from the original 1995 console. The new Virtual Boy requires a Switch Online and Expansion Pack subscription and will launch with 14 games, offering a surprisingly comfortable and immersive experience despite its niche appeal and high cost.Read more →
Gizmodo...Nintendo’s Virtual Boy Recreation Reminds Us Gaming Doesn’t Have to Be FunNintendo has released a $100 Virtual Boy accessory for the Switch 2 that recreates the original 1995 virtual reality console experience with modern conveniences, featuring seven launch titles including Wario Land and 3D Tetris. The accessory uses the Switch's LCD screen with stereoscopic imaging and red-tinted lenses to simulate the original's 3D effect, positioning itself as a historical time capsule rather than a modern gaming experience.Read more →
CNET...Nintendo's Annoying Talking Flower Actually Out-Talked Me (and That's Saying Something)Nintendo is releasing a Talking Flower toy for $35 on March 12, a simple sound-making device with prerecorded messages that can tell time and measure temperature. The toy functions as a novelty item rather than an ambitious smart device, featuring a single button interface and limited interactive capabilities.Read more →
Gizmodo...‘The Muppet Show’ Returns for a Cute and Nostalgic SpecialABC and Disney+ have produced a one-off Muppet Show special featuring pop star Sabrina Carpenter, celebrating the franchise's 50-year legacy with familiar variety show format and classic characters. The special successfully balances nostalgia with contemporary humor, though its 30-minute runtime leaves audiences wanting more and suggests potential for future revival.Read more →
Gizmodo...Nintendo’s 2026 Games Lineup Is Odd, but Not as Odd as the Wonder FlowerNintendo is launching new multiplayer-focused games for early 2026, including Mario Tennis Fever and Super Mario Bros. Wonder Switch 2 Edition, emphasizing local co-op experiences with substantial character and item rosters. The company faces pressure from investors regarding hardware costs and supply chain issues, with limited tentpole releases to drive console sales in the coming months.Read more →
The Verge...Fortnite is about to get a lot more gaming crossoversEpic Games is expanding a crossover program that offers Fortnite cosmetics to players who purchase games on the Epic Games Store, targeting over 100 partnerships annually to drive platform adoption and increase player spending. The initiative comes as Epic's PC gaming platform reached record metrics with $400 million in third-party game spending and 78 million monthly active users, while the company plans launcher improvements to address performance criticism.Read more →
CNET...You Can Watch All the ‘Mission: Impossible’ Movies on One Convenient App. Here’s HowThis article provides a comprehensive guide to the Mission: Impossible film franchise, which spans 8 movies from 1996 to 2025. It details where to stream each film across various platforms including Paramount Plus, Prime Video, and free ad-supported services, while noting that most films can be watched as standalones.Read more →
CNET...Best Ring Video Doorbells of 2026: All the Latest Ring FeatuersCNET provides a comprehensive review of Ring video doorbells, highlighting their advanced AI features like video summaries and pet detection capabilities. The article evaluates multiple Ring doorbell models ranging from budget options to premium 4K versions, helping consumers choose the right device based on their specific needs and installation requirements.Read more →
Engadget...Mario Tennis Fever preview: A racket-smashing blastMario Tennis Fever introduces a new Fever Shot mechanic using interchangeable rackets with unique special abilities, replacing the Zone Shot system from previous titles. The new system includes built-in counterplay that allows opponents to volley back Fever Shots, creating more balanced and dynamic gameplay compared to earlier Mario Tennis games.Read more →
Engadget...The Switch 2's Virtual Boy is a tribute to Nintendo's wackiest consoleNintendo is reviving the Virtual Boy as a Switch 2 accessory, maintaining the original's iconic red-and-black design while modernizing key components like using the Switch 2's display and battery instead of built-in hardware. Despite updates to the hardware, the games remain largely unchanged from the original 1995 releases, offering an eccentric nostalgic experience that showcases outdated 1990s VR concepts rather than contemporary gaming standards.Read more →
Engadget...NASA moves Artemis 2 launch to March after hydrogen leak during testingNASA postponed the Artemis 2 mission's launch window from February to March after encountering a liquid hydrogen leak and other technical issues during a wet dress rehearsal on February 3. The agency identified multiple challenges including pressurization delays and communication problems that must be resolved before the next test and final launch confirmation.Read more →
CNET...Career Chefs Reveal the 8 Most Underrated Tools in Their KitchensThis article discusses overlooked kitchen tools recommended by professional chefs, including microplane zesters for citrus preparation, mortars and pestles for grinding herbs and spices, fish forks for delicate handling, chinoise strainers for refined sauces, sous vide cookers and OCOO machines for precision cooking, coconut graters for fresh preparation, serrated knives for meat slicing, and ring molds for uniform shaping. These tools collectively elevate home cooking by enabling professional techniques and improving food quality and texture.Read more →
The Verge...Google Home finally adds support for buttonsGoogle has released an update enabling programmable switches and buttons to function within its smart home platform, expanding device compatibility and control options. This enhancement allows users to integrate customizable button controls into their Google smart home ecosystem for improved automation and accessibility.Read more →
Engadget...TurboTax Deluxe is on sale for $45 before tax seasonTurboTax is currently offering significant discounts on its tax software, with the Deluxe desktop edition reduced by 44% to $35 off the regular $80 price, available through Amazon. The free government Direct File service has been discontinued for 2026, making commercial tax software options like TurboTax more necessary for most filers, though the IRS Free File program remains available for qualifying taxpayers.Read more →
Engadget...The 8BitDo Pro 3 Bluetooth Controller is down to a new all-time lowThe 8Bitdo Pro 3 Bluetooth Controller is currently on sale for $48, a 31% discount from its $70 retail price, representing the lowest price available since its August launch. The controller features TMR Joysticks, swappable magnetic buttons for different console layouts, programmable paddle buttons, and an integrated charging dock, offering broad compatibility across Apple, Android, PC, Nintendo Switch, and Switch 2 platforms.Read more →
Engadget...Save on the Disney+ and Hulu bundle: Get one month for only $10Disney is offering new and returning subscribers one month of the ad-supported Disney+ and Hulu bundle for $10, representing a $3 discount from the regular price. The bundle provides access to Disney's family content, Marvel franchises, and Star Wars alongside Hulu's adult-oriented programming and next-day network TV episodes.Read more →
CNET...Every iPhone 17E Rumor and Leak So Far: Dynamic Island, MagSafe and MoreApple's upcoming iPhone 17E is rumored to launch in February 2026 with significant feature upgrades including MagSafe wireless charging, Dynamic Island display, and a design closer to the iPhone 15, positioning it as a more compelling budget option. The device is expected to maintain pricing similar to the current iPhone 16E while addressing previous limitations that made the $599 budget model feel oddly positioned without key features like MagSafe.Read more →
Gizmodo...One of ‘Star Wars’ Biggest Recent Reveals Was Inspired by ‘Lord of the Rings’The Art of Star Wars: The Acolyte book reveals that series creator Leslye Headland drew inspiration from The Lord of the Rings' Gollum reveal when introducing Darth Plagueis in the 2024 Disney+ series, using minimal lighting and mysterious framing to hint at the character's presence. VFX supervisor Julian Foddy notes the design focused on subtle visual cues—such as elongated fingers and shadowy glimpses—to suggest an inhuman threat without fully exposing the character, leaving room for potential future Star Wars stories.Read more →
The Verge...Aluminium: Why Google’s Android for PC launch may be messy and controversialGoogle's upcoming Aluminium OS, which combines Android and ChromeOS, won't launch until 2028 according to court documents, despite earlier hopeful statements about a 2026 release. The delayed timeline, hardware incompatibility requirements, and exemptions from antitrust restrictions raise concerns about whether Aluminium could become a vehicle for Google to maintain and extend its monopoly power over search and app distribution.Read more →
CNET...These Are the 5 Best 55-Inch TVs in 2026This CNET article provides comprehensive guidance on selecting a 55-inch television, comparing leading models across different price tiers including the Hisense U8N for overall value, LG OLED options for premium quality, and Samsung S95D for best-in-class image performance. The article emphasizes CNET's rigorous testing methodology using specialized lab equipment and offers practical buying advice regarding screen size, pricing, and key features like local dimming and refresh rates.Read more →
The Verge...YouTube now blocking background playback on mobile browsersYouTube has started to block third-party mobile browsers from using a background playback loophole. Background playback is supposed to be limited to YouTube Premium subscribers through the official iOS or Android app, but many people have been using browsers like Brave, Vivaldi, and Edge to get background playback without a subscription. Not anymore. "Background playback […]Read more →
TechCrunch...India’s Supreme Court to WhatsApp: ‘You cannot play with the right to privacy’India's Supreme Court sharply rebuked Meta over WhatsApp's data privacy practices, with judges questioning how users can meaningfully consent to data-sharing when WhatsApp functions as a market monopoly. The court blocked any data sharing between Meta and WhatsApp pending appeal and demanded detailed explanations of how the platform monetizes user behavioral data for advertising and AI functions.Read more →
The Verge...The Model S changed everythingTesla discontinues the Model S after 14 years, marking the end of an era for the vehicle that revolutionized the automotive industry by making electric vehicles desirable and spurring global EV adoption. While the Model S achieved iconic status and influenced design across the industry, Tesla has since pivoted toward robotics and AI, with competitors now matching or exceeding its luxury offerings as EV market growth slows.Read more →
Engadget...Proton VPN two-year subscriptions are 70 percent off right nowProton VPN is offering a significant promotional discount on its two-year Plus plan at $2.99 per month ($72 upfront), representing a 70 percent reduction from regular pricing. The service is noted for strong privacy protections, fast performance with minimal speed loss, and comprehensive features including 15,000+ servers, support for 10 devices, and advanced security capabilities like ad blocking and encrypted double-hop connections.Read more →
TechCrunch...Vema predicts cheap hydrogen could change where data centers are builtVema Hydrogen is developing a novel method to produce hydrogen by drilling into iron-rich rock formations and treating them with water, heat, and catalysts, aiming to supply data centers and industrial users with clean hydrogen at under $1 per kilogram. The startup has completed a pilot project in Quebec and plans to expand commercial operations, potentially positioning California as a hub for hydrogen-powered data centers due to its abundant ophiolite rock formations.Read more →
Engadget...The Morning After: Elon Musk’s SpaceX is buying his AI company, xAISpaceX has acquired xAI to create a vertically integrated innovation engine, with plans to build resource-intensive AI data centers in space that could eventually support lunar bases and Mars colonization. The acquisition also gives SpaceX ownership of X (formerly Twitter), which merged with xAI last year.Read more →
CNET...The Apple Watch vs. Oura Ring Debate for Me Comes Down to One FeatureThis review compares the Oura Ring 4 and Apple Watch Series 11, concluding they are complementary rather than direct competitors. The Oura Ring excels at long-term health trend analysis and subtle change detection with week-long battery life, while the Apple Watch dominates fitness tracking and daily connectivity. The choice depends on individual priorities, though the reviewer ultimately prefers the Apple Watch for its fitness capabilities and everyday utility.Read more →
CNET...Considering a Brand-New Fridge? Here's How Much Energy a New Model SavesModern energy-efficient refrigerators significantly reduce electricity costs over their lifespan, with side-by-side models saving an average of $340 over 10 years compared to 2016 models, while bottom freezers save $272 and top freezers save $83. Regional electricity rates substantially impact these savings, with Hawaii and California residents seeing 51-160% higher savings than the national average, making the upgrade financially worthwhile for most refrigerator types except compact models which show minimal efficiency improvements.Read more →
CNET...Apple TV's 25 Best TV Shows You're Probably Not WatchingApple TV has rebranded by removing 'Plus' from its name and continues to expand its content library with critically acclaimed shows. The platform relies on word-of-mouth marketing rather than traditional promotion, featuring Emmy-winning programs like Severance, Ted Lasso, The Morning Show, and The Studio alongside acclaimed dramas and comedies from top talent.Read more →
CNET...Apple iPhone 18, iPhone Fold, Samsung Galaxy S26 and Other Phones We Expect in 2026This comprehensive article previews 2026 smartphone launches, highlighting Apple's potential iPhone Fold debut and split iPhone 18 launch strategy, Samsung's Galaxy S26 series with new slim Edge variant and upcoming Galaxy Z TriFold US release, and flagship camera-focused models from Google, Xiaomi, Vivo, and Oppo. The year is expected to deliver significant innovations in foldable technology and imaging capabilities rather than incremental upgrades.Read more →
Gizmodo...Neil Gaiman Denies the Allegations Against Him (Again) While Announcing a New BookNeil Gaiman has issued a new statement denying sexual misconduct allegations against him, maintaining his innocence and citing email, text, and video evidence. Following the suspension of multiple TV projects tied to the allegations, including Netflix's The Sandman and Good Omens season three, Gaiman has redirected his efforts to writing and announced a major new novel described as his biggest project since American Gods.Read more →
The Verge...A community organizer's guide to Signal group chatsSignal messaging app has become widely used for organizing community groups due to its privacy and encryption features. The article provides comprehensive guidance on Signal's privacy settings, best practices for secure group communications, and clarifies that First Amendment rights remain protected when using the platform for lawful community organizing.Read more →
Engadget...X's Paris HQ raided by French prosecutorsParis prosecutors are investigating X's algorithms for allegedly manipulating content prominence and distorting automated data processing systems, with searches conducted at X's offices and summonses issued to Elon Musk and Linda Yaccarino. The investigation, which began in January 2025, also includes charges related to fraudulent data extraction and alleged child exploitation content generated by Grok, raising concerns about algorithmic transparency and platform governance.Read more →
CNET...Flashback One35 V2 Review: A Digital Camera That Thinks It's a Disposable Film CameraThe Flashback One35 is a retro-styled digital camera that mimics the form factor and experience of disposable film cameras from the 1980s-90s, featuring a 13-megapixel sensor, a 24-hour photo development timer, and a film advance dial. Despite its nostalgic design and limited controls, it delivers surprisingly good image quality for its $120 price point and appeals to users seeking a simplified, distraction-free photography experience.Read more →
CNET...We've Tested Dozens of Air Fryers. This Ninja Model Is Our Favorite by FarThe Ninja Crispi glass air fryer offers a modular design with transparent cooking vessels that allow progress monitoring without heat loss, making it CNET's top air fryer pick. Its nontoxic glass bowls eliminate concerns about nonstick coatings, provide easy cleaning, double as storage containers, and the unit breaks down compactly for storage and portability, representing a significant advancement in air fryer design.Read more →
The Verge...How to tear gas childrenThis article is not a technology news story and does not fall within the scope of the RSS feed's tech news categories. It is a detailed journalistic account of a labor union protest in Portland, Oregon that was dispersed with tear gas by ICE agents, focusing on eyewitness accounts and community impact rather than technology, business, or innovation topics.Read more →
TechCrunch...Avalanche thinks the fusion power industry should think smallerAvalanche, a nuclear fusion startup, is developing a compact desktop-scale fusion reactor using high-voltage electric currents instead of massive tokamaks or lasers. The company has raised $80 million and plans to achieve breakeven fusion (Q>1) by scaling its reactor from 9cm to 25cm diameter, with expectations of reaching major milestones between 2027-2029.Read more →
Engadget...The best iPhone 17 and iPhone 17 Pro cases for 2026This article provides a comprehensive guide to selecting iPhone 17 and iPhone 17 Pro cases, highlighting key features such as MagSafe compatibility, protective finishes, and camera lens protection. The guide compares case types including silicone versus hard cases, discusses protective brands like Otterbox, and addresses whether screen protectors are necessary despite the iPhone 17's Ceramic Shield 2 technology.Read more →
Gizmodo...Trump Announces Minerals Stockpile Way Too Late for It to Spare Him From Embarrassment by ChinaThe Trump administration announced Project Vault, a $12 billion strategic reserve of rare earth minerals to protect U.S. manufacturers from supply disruptions following China's export restrictions last year. The initiative, funded through $2 billion in private capital and a $10 billion bank loan, aims to prevent future price shocks and reduce dependence on China, which controls 69% of global rare earth mineral production.Read more →
Engadget...The Switch just surpassed the DS as Nintendo's best-selling console everNintendo's original Switch became the company's best-selling console with 155.37 million units sold, surpassing the DS and now trailing only the PS2 in all-time console sales. The Switch 2 has proven to be a massive success, becoming Nintendo's fastest-selling platform ever with strong holiday sales exceeding expectations and helping drive Q3 revenue to $5.2 billion.Read more →
Engadget...The best Bluetooth trackers for 2026This comprehensive guide compares the leading Bluetooth tracker options for 2026, including Apple AirTags, Google Find Hub compatible devices, and alternatives from Chipolo, Tile, and Samsung. The review evaluates trackers based on finding network size, separation alerts, sound volume, design, battery life, and security features, with testing results showing AirTags and Google Find Hub devices perform fastest for locating lost items.Read more →
The Verge...The Switch is now Nintendo’s best-selling console of all timeThe original Switch is officially Nintendo's best-selling console of all time after surpassing the DS handheld in lifetime sales. In its latest earnings release, Nintendo reports that the Nintendo Switch has, as of December 31, 2025, sold 155.37 million units since its launch in 2017, compared to 154.02 million units for the 2004 Nintendo DS. […]Read more →
Gizmodo...SpaceX and xAI Are Merging Into a Very Silly-Sounding Conglomerate. Take It SeriouslySpaceX is acquiring xAI, creating a vertically-integrated company combining rockets, satellites, AI, and Musk's social media platform X. The merger aims to develop space-based AI compute infrastructure, though critics question the strategic coherence of combining aerospace operations with Musk's controversial ventures.Read more →
CNET...Starlink Wi-Fi Now Available on a Quarter of All United Airlines FlightsUnited Airlines has equipped over 1,200 daily departures with Starlink Wi-Fi, with plans to reach 75% of its mainline fleet by end of 2026. The satellite-based service delivers home-quality internet enabling passengers to stream content freely, resulting in 100x higher data consumption compared to previous in-flight systems. Multiple international airlines are adopting Starlink, with additional carriers launching the service in 2026.Read more →
Gizmodo...Palantir Touts $2 Billion in Revenue from Aiding Trump Administration’s ‘Unusual’ OperationsPalantir reported record $1.855 billion in U.S. government revenue for 2025, with 55% year-over-year growth driven primarily by Department of Defense contracts and expanding civil agency work. The company's software is increasingly used across government operations including immigration enforcement, military targeting systems, and policy compliance, raising concerns about surveillance scope and the constitutional implications of AI-driven government decision-making.Read more →
TechCrunch...Fintech CEO and Forbes 30 Under 30 alum has been charged for alleged fraudGökçe Güven, founder of fintech startup Kalder and Forbes 30 Under 30 alumna, was charged with securities fraud, wire fraud, and identity theft after allegedly raising $7 million in April 2024 using a fraudulent pitch deck containing false client claims and inflated revenue figures. The DOJ alleges Güven maintained separate sets of financial books and used forged documents to obtain an extraordinary ability visa, continuing a troubling pattern of fraud among Forbes 30 Under 30 honorees.Read more →
Engadget...Crunchyroll increases prices for all anime streaming plansCrunchyroll is increasing prices across all subscription tiers by $2 per month, with the Fan tier now at $10/month, Mega Fan at $14/month, and Ultimate Fan at $18/month. The company is partially offsetting the increase by introducing offline viewing to the Fan tier, though limited to one device, and offering discounted annual pricing at $67 for new subscribers.Read more →
TechCrunch...Waymo raises $16B to scale robotaxi fleet internationallyWaymo has raised $16 billion in a funding round led by Dragoneer Investment Group, DST Global, and Sequoia Capital, valuing the autonomous vehicle company at $126 billion. The funding will support Waymo's rapid expansion from 400,000 weekly rides across six U.S. cities to over 20 additional cities internationally in 2026, including London and Tokyo.Read more →
Engadget...Moltbook, the AI social network, exposed human credentials due to vibe-coded security flawMoltbook, a social network for AI agents, exposed credentials for thousands of users due to security vulnerabilities in its AI-generated codebase. The platform's founder had an AI assistant build the entire site without human oversight, resulting in exposed API tokens, email addresses, and a flaw allowing unauthenticated users to edit posts, ultimately undermining the platform's credibility as an AI-driven network.Read more →
The Verge...Adobe Animate is shutting down next monthAdobe is discontinuing Adobe Animate on March 1st, 2027 (2029 for enterprise customers), citing the emergence of new platforms that better serve user needs. The decision has sparked significant backlash from animation studios, independent creators, and entertainment professionals who rely on the software for television production, film, and game development.Read more →
Gizmodo...Amazon’s Ring Wants to Wash Away Your Surveillance Concerns With Lost PuppiesRing has expanded its Search Party for Dogs feature to help reunite lost pets with owners across the U.S., but the expansion comes amid growing concerns about surveillance access by law enforcement and immigration authorities. While Ring maintains it does not provide ICE with direct access and requires judicial warrants for data sharing, critics question whether these safeguards will hold in a political environment where enforcement agencies increasingly operate outside legal constraints.Read more →
CNET...Best Streaming Services of 2026A comprehensive guide comparing major streaming services including Netflix, Disney Plus, HBO Max, Hulu, Prime Video, Peacock, Paramount Plus, and Apple TV, evaluating their content libraries, pricing, features, and value propositions to help consumers choose the right platforms based on their viewing preferences and budget.Read more →
Gizmodo...‘Pretty Please, I Don’t Want to Be a Magical Girl’ Has the JuicePretty Please, I Don't Want to Be a Magical Girl is an indie animated series created by Kiana Khansmith that subverts magical girl tropes by following a protagonist who abandons superhero life to live as a regular teenager, only to be drawn back in by her friends and old nemesis. The show uses storyboard animation rather than full animation, maintaining strong character performances and humor while building significant online engagement that led to Mercury Filmworks commissioning a fully animated pilot.Read more →
The Verge...Waymo raises $16 billion to take its robotaxi business ‘global’Waymo announced a $16 billion investment round aimed at bringing its robotaxi business to more US cities, as well as some overseas markets. The funding round was led by Dragoneer Investment Group, a "crossover" firm known for investing in late-stage tech companies before they go public. Waymo's co-CEOs said in a blog post they would […]Read more →
TechCrunch...Elon Musk’s SpaceX officially acquires Elon Musk’s xAI, with plan to build data centers in spaceSpaceX has acquired Elon Musk's AI startup xAI in a merger that values the combined company at $1.25 trillion, primarily to develop space-based data centers that would address AI's massive power and cooling demands. The deal brings together two of Musk's companies with significant financial pressures: xAI burns approximately $1 billion monthly while SpaceX relies heavily on Starlink revenue, and the merger is expected to create a sustained satellite deployment loop that benefits SpaceX's core business.Read more →
Engadget...Elon Musk's SpaceX has acquired his AI company, xAISpaceX has acquired Elon Musk's xAI to create a vertically-integrated company combining AI, rockets, and space-based internet infrastructure. Musk plans to build orbital data centers in space to meet growing AI computational demands, claiming terrestrial solutions cannot meet global electricity needs.Read more →
CNET...NotebookLM Review: Bring Your Own Sources to This Ultrapractical Google AI ToolNotebookLM is Google's AI research assistant that helps users learn from and create outputs based on their own source material, distinguishing itself by relying exclusively on user-provided sources rather than internet data. The tool offers multiple features including document analysis, audio overviews, slide decks, and study guides, making it valuable for students, professionals, and creative projects, with a free tier supporting up to 50 sources and a paid tier offering higher limits.Read more →
CNET...iPhone Fold Could Redefine Battery Life and Shake Up Button DesignApple is reportedly developing an iPhone Fold with a 5,500-mAh battery, the largest ever used in an iPhone, along with design refinements including repositioned volume buttons, updated cameras, and improved hinge mechanics. These enhancements suggest Apple is prioritizing battery life and ergonomics to address common weaknesses in early foldable devices from competitors.Read more →
Engadget...Ubisoft fires employee who publicly criticized its RTO planUbisoft fired David Michaud-Cromp, a level design team lead at Ubisoft Montreal, days after he was suspended for opposing the company's return-to-office mandate. The dismissal is part of a pattern of workforce tensions at Ubisoft, including recent studio closures, mass layoffs, and union strike calls over working conditions and cost-cutting measures.Read more →
The Verge...Here are the best Apple Watch deals available right nowApple's latest smartwatch lineup includes the Series 11, SE 3, and Ultra 3, with significant price discounts now available across models. The Series 11 offers improved battery life and a more efficient 5G modem, while the SE 3 represents a major upgrade with the S10 chip and always-on display, making it an excellent value option for budget-conscious buyers.Read more →
CNET...The $500 Check That Helped Launch Apple Just Sold for MillionsA historic check signed by Steve Jobs and Steve Wozniak in March 1976 sold for $2.4 million at an auction celebrating Apple's 50th anniversary. The check, payment to circuit board designer Howard Cantin for his work on the Apple-1, represents one of the earliest transactions in Apple's founding and offers insight into the company's pivotal early days.Read more →
TechCrunch...China is leading the fight against hidden car door handlesChina has banned hidden electronic door handles on vehicles, requiring mechanical releases on all doors effective January 1, 2027. The regulation responds to fatal incidents where occupants became trapped due to electronic lock failures, affecting Tesla and other electric vehicle manufacturers operating in the country.Read more →
Gizmodo...Major California Union Calls for Waymo to Be Kicked Off the StreetsA Waymo robotaxi struck a child in Santa Monica during school drop-off hours, prompting California's Teamsters union to call for the company's statewide shutdown and sparking a National Highway Traffic Safety Administration investigation. The incident has intensified scrutiny of autonomous vehicles' safety protocols in school zones, particularly following separate investigations into Waymo vehicles ignoring school bus stop signs.Read more →
The Verge...Elon Musk merges SpaceX with xAI (and X)SpaceX has acquired xAI to create an integrated company combining artificial intelligence, rocket technology, and space-based infrastructure for scaling AI operations beyond Earth's power limitations. The company plans to develop space-based AI data centers powered by solar energy to address the growing electricity demands of AI systems that cannot be sustainably met by terrestrial infrastructure.Read more →
The Verge...Will Elon Musk’s emails with Jeffrey Epstein derail his very important year?Released Department of Justice documents reveal Elon Musk had more extensive contact with Jeffrey Epstein than previously acknowledged, including emails where Musk asked about parties on Epstein's island, contradicting his past denials of the relationship. While Musk faces potential image damage with investors ahead of SpaceX's planned IPO and company mergers, his history of weathering controversies suggests investors may view this as routine risk associated with his leadership.Read more →
Gizmodo...NASA Picked the Stupidest Possible Week to Go Back to the MoonArtemis 2 could launch as early as this coming weekend. If it does, the 10-day mission will have to compete with the Olympics and Super Bowl for media attention.Read more →
Gizmodo...Gore Verbinski on the Difficulties of Making His Weird, Epic New Sci-Fi MovieDirector Gore Verbinski discusses his upcoming sci-fi film Good Luck, Have Fun, Don't Die, a time-travel thriller about a man from the future recruiting strangers at a Los Angeles Norm's restaurant to prevent a killer AI apocalypse. The film, which blends The Terminator with Groundhog Day, had to be shot in South Africa due to budget constraints after major studios rejected the unconventional script, and Verbinski reflects on how rapidly evolving AI technology required continuous script updates during production.Read more →
Gizmodo...Mozilla Adding ‘Off’ Switch to AI in FirefoxMozilla is introducing a toggle in Firefox 148 to allow users to disable all AI features at once, including translations, tab grouping recommendations, and in-browser chatbots from providers like Claude and ChatGPT. The move addresses user concerns about Mozilla's shift toward AI integration following its new CEO's announcement of plans to evolve Firefox into an AI-focused browser.Read more →
Gizmodo...NASA Let AI Drive a Rover on Mars—and It Somehow SurvivedNASA's Perseverance rover completed two autonomous driving missions on Mars using route plans generated by Anthropic's Claude AI model. The demonstration shows AI can effectively streamline rover navigation by analyzing terrain data similar to how human engineers create waypoints, potentially cutting route-planning time in half and enabling longer autonomous journeys across Mars.Read more →
CNET...Apple Is Working on a Clamshell Version of Its First Foldable iPhone, Report SaysApple is reportedly developing its first foldable iPhone expected to launch in late 2026, with a larger book-style design and a smaller clamshell flip model in development for potential future release. The clamshell variant would offer a more compact, square-shaped design compared to competitors like Samsung and Motorola, with the company betting that successful initial foldable sales will drive demand for multiple form factors.Read more →
TechCrunch...Adobe Animate is shutting down as company focuses on AIAdobe is discontinuing its 2D animation software Adobe Animate on March 1, 2026, as the company shifts its focus toward AI-integrated products. The decision has sparked significant backlash from existing customers who express concern about the lack of suitable alternatives, with Adobe unable to recommend a complete replacement for Animate's functionality.Read more →
Gizmodo...Is ‘Can It Do Raytracing’ the New ‘Can It Run DOOM’?A demoscene developer successfully implemented real-time raytracing on the Sega Saturn, a 1994 console without dedicated raytracing hardware, using advanced techniques like binary space partitioning. This achievement represents a remarkable feat of optimization, demonstrating how creative developers can extract far more performance from legacy hardware than was previously thought possible.Read more →
CNET...Best Live TV Streaming Services of 2026This article compares leading live TV streaming services as cable alternatives, analyzing offerings like YouTube TV, Hulu Plus Live TV, Sling TV, and DirecTV across pricing, channels, and features. It provides guidance for cord-cutters to choose the best service based on channel availability, DVR capabilities, simultaneous streams, and budget, while noting that prices have increased significantly and channel lineups continue to shift.Read more →
Engadget...France might seek restrictions on VPN use in campaign to keep minors off social mediaFrance is advancing legislation to ban social media for minors under 15, with government officials considering additional restrictions on VPNs to prevent circumvention. The proposal has passed the National Assembly and will proceed to the Senate, though critics warn the measures could represent authoritarian overreach.Read more →
The Verge...Notepad++ updates got hijacked for months and could have spied for ChinaNotepad++ servers were compromised for six months, allowing attackers to distribute malicious updates to targeted users, likely affecting organizations with East Asian interests. The attack involved sophisticated redirection of specific users to malicious executables that could enable remote keyboard access. The vulnerability has been patched in version 8.8.9, and users are advised to update directly from the official website.Read more →
Gizmodo...Future iPhone Might Straight-Up Copy Samsung’s Z FlipApple is reportedly developing a clamshell-style foldable iPhone to complement its upcoming book-style foldable launching in September. The flip-style design could address consumer demand for compact phones with large screens, though success will depend on Apple's ability to improve upon existing Samsung models through thinner design, no visible crease, and competitive pricing.Read more →
Gizmodo...Nearly Half of Americans Have Hypertension—and Most Aren’t Doing Anything about ItA study of nationally representative U.S. data reveals that nearly 80% of Americans with hypertension have uncontrolled blood pressure, with a majority not taking pressure-lowering medications. The research indicates that greater adoption of antihypertensive drugs combined with lifestyle modifications could significantly improve cardiovascular health outcomes, as many patients are within 10 points of recommended goals and lack awareness or access to treatment.Read more →
TechCrunch...Two Stanford students launch $2M startup accelerator for students nationwideStanford students Roman Scott and Itbaan Nafi have launched Breakthrough Ventures, a $2 million accelerator program designed specifically for college students and recent graduates to fund early-stage startups across AI, health, consumer, and deep tech sectors. The program offers grants up to $100,000, compute credits, mentorship, and follow-on investment opportunities, aiming to incubate at least 100 companies over three years by addressing the historical funding and network gaps facing student entrepreneurs.Read more →
Engadget...Firefox will soon offer a way to block all of its generative AI featuresMozilla is rolling out Firefox 148 with new AI controls in browser settings, allowing users to disable generative AI features like chatbots, automated translations, alt text generation, tab grouping suggestions, and webpage previews. The update includes a comprehensive toggle to block all current and future AI enhancements, addressing user concerns about feature bloat and resource consumption.Read more →
Gizmodo...Disney Expects Fewer International Theme Park Visitors Because, You KnowDisney reported declining international theme park attendance due to concerns about U.S. immigration enforcement policies under President Trump's administration. International tourism to the U.S. dropped 6% in 2025 while global tourism increased 7%, prompting Disney to shift promotional focus toward domestic visitors, though per-visitor spending has increased and parks remain highly profitable.Read more →
Gizmodo...It Turns Out ‘Social Media for AI Agents’ Is a Security NightmareMoltbook, a Reddit-style platform for AI agents to interact, has exposed critical security vulnerabilities including unencrypted API keys accessible in a public database, potentially allowing attackers to impersonate agents and execute prompt injection attacks. The platform's poor security practices, combined with unverified accounts and the ability for humans to masquerade as bots, raise serious concerns about authenticity and have drawn criticism of prominent AI figures for promoting the platform without understanding its technical limitations.Read more →
The Verge...Ikea’s next cheap Bluetooth speaker is a playful purple mouseIkea is expanding its Grejsimojs product line with a new wireless speaker specifically designed with child safety in mind. The speaker addition represents the furniture giant's growing focus on creating kid-friendly consumer electronics.Read more →
CNET...I Found Amazon's Latest Echo Show 11 at a New Lowest Price Ever, but It Won't LastThe Amazon Echo Show 11 is currently available at a record-low price of $180, down from $220, marking the lowest price ever recorded for this device. The smart display features a bright, crisp screen ideal for kitchen counters and supports Alexa voice control for managing smart home devices, streaming content, and more.Read more →
The Verge...Firefox is adding a switch to turn AI features offMozilla is introducing an AI control option in Firefox on February 24th that allows users to disable or enable individual AI features including chatbots, translations, and tab suggestions. This move responds to user concerns about AI integration in browsers and gives Firefox users granular control over AI functionality, reinforcing Mozilla's commitment to user choice and privacy.Read more →
Gizmodo...Ira Parker on That Big ‘A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms’ RevealIn A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms, the character Egg is revealed to be Aegon Targaryen, a prince hiding his identity to escape his family's cruelty and pursue adventure with the hedge knight Dunk. Showrunner Ira Parker explains that Egg's decision stemmed from childish disappointment at missing the Ashford Meadow tournament, using Dunk's lack of connections as the perfect cover to avoid detection.Read more →
The Verge...Crunchyroll is raising prices againCrunchyroll is raising its prices in the US and "select international markets," including the first price hike to its lowest-priced tier since 2019. Here are the price changes, according to Crunchyroll: Fan Tier will increase from $7.99/month to $9.99/month. Mega Fan Tier will increase from $11.99/month to $13.99/month. Ultimate Fan Tier will increase from $15.99/month […]Read more →
Engadget...Sony’s flagship WF-1000XM6 earbuds have been leaked on a retail siteSony's WF-1000XM6 flagship earbuds have leaked online with photos and specs showing IPX4 water resistance, ANC/transparency modes, and a new pill-shaped design with larger eartips. The larger eartips may indicate improved bass response, addressing a common limitation in earbud audio performance.Read more →
Gizmodo...HyperX Cloud Alpha 2 Review: An Enormous Battery Life Wasted on a Stationary HeadsetThe HyperX Cloud Alpha 2 is a comfortable wireless gaming headset priced at $280 that boasts impressive 250-hour battery life, but its audio quality falls short of competitors at similar price points like the Sony Inzone H9 II and SteelSeries Arctis Nova Elite. While it excels in comfort, mic quality with noise reduction, and cross-platform compatibility, the sound profile options are limited and the exceptionally long battery life is impractical for a primarily stationary home gaming device.Read more →
The Verge...Amazon’s desk-friendly Echo Show 8 is down to its lowest price everAmazon's fourth-generation Echo Show 8 is on sale for $149.99 as part of the Super Bowl sale, featuring an upgraded 8.7-inch display, improved camera, and enhanced smart home controls via Zigbee, Matter, and Thread protocols. The device now supports Alexa Plus for context-aware tasks like automated reminders, though the service requires a $19.99 monthly subscription for non-Prime members.Read more →
TechCrunch...What Snowflake’s deal with OpenAI tells us about the enterprise AI raceSnowflake has signed a $200 million multi-year deal with OpenAI to integrate OpenAI's models across its platform for enterprise customers, joining similar partnerships with Anthropic and other AI providers. This reflects a broader trend where enterprises are deliberately partnering with multiple AI companies to give customers choice and access to models with different strengths, rather than relying on a single provider.Read more →
Engadget...Samsung Galaxy A17 5G review: A respectable and affordable Android optionThe Samsung Galaxy A17 is a capable $200 budget smartphone that balances cost savings with solid features including a bright 6.7-inch OLED display, expandable microSD card storage, and decent cameras. While it struggles with performance due to an older processor and low-light photography, it offers good value with six years of software updates, making it competitive in the budget segment.Read more →
CNET...Move Over, Puppy Bowl: Ring's Dog-Rescuing Super Bowl Ad Brings Tears and TechRing has expanded its Search Party feature, which uses AI to identify lost pets in video footage, to all users nationwide without requiring a Ring camera. The feature has already helped find over one lost dog per day since launch and Ring is investing $1 million to provide cameras to animal shelters to enhance detection capabilities.Read more →
The Verge...Raspberry Pi is raising prices again as memory shortages continueRaspberry Pi announced a second price increase within two months due to component costs doubling, affecting Raspberry Pi 4 and 5 models with 2GB or more memory, with increases ranging from $10 to $60 depending on RAM configuration. The company attributes the pricing pressures to memory chip shortages and expects 2026 to remain challenging, but anticipates eventual price normalization once supply stabilizes.Read more →
Engadget...ROG made a gaming headset for audiophile nerdsASUS ROG announced the Kithara gaming headset, developed with audio specialist HiFiMan, featuring 100mm planar magnetic drivers designed for audiophile-grade sound and competitive gaming. The open-back design delivers detailed audio cues like footsteps and movement while minimizing crosstalk, with versatile connectivity options and premium comfort features at $300.Read more →
Engadget...ASUS ROG made a gaming headset for audiophile nerdsASUS ROG unveiled the Kithara gaming headset, developed with HiFiMan, featuring 100mm planar magnetic drivers designed to deliver audiophile-grade sound with exceptional clarity and positional audio precision. The open-back design and advanced microphone isolation make it suitable for both competitive gaming and music listening, priced at $300.Read more →
The Verge...Jeffrey Epstein arranged a meeting with Tim Cook for the former head of WindowsNewly released Epstein files contain emails suggesting Steven Sinofsky used Jeffrey Epstein as an intermediary to establish a connection with Apple's CEO. The correspondence reveals potential networking relationships between tech industry figures and the convicted financier.Read more →
CNET...What Are the Best Wireless Earbuds Right Now?Shokz introduced the OpenFit Pro open earbuds with OpenEar Noise Reduction technology, offering impressive sound quality and premium build at $250, though noise reduction falls short of Apple AirPods 4. Sony released the LinkBuds Clip, a clip-on variant of its open earbud line with strong voice-calling performance and good battery life at $230, positioning itself competitively in the growing open earbud market despite a premium price point.Read more →
CNET...After Rampant AI-Powered Abuse, Grok Doubles Down With a New Video GeneratorxAI's Grok AI model has generated millions of non-consensual sexual deepfake images, including child sexual abuse material, despite the company's claims of improved safeguards. The company continues to expand its capabilities with new generative video tools, prompting investigations from multiple governments and calls for removal from app stores.Read more →
TechCrunch...Firefox will soon let you block all of its generative AI featuresMozilla announced that Firefox 148, launching February 24, will include comprehensive AI controls allowing users to block all generative AI features or manage them individually, including translations, PDF alt text, tab grouping, and integrated chatbots. This move reflects Mozilla's commitment to user choice while investing in AI capabilities, positioning the browser amid renewed competition from AI-focused alternatives like Perplexity and Arc.Read more →
Engadget...OpenAI brings its Codex coding app to Mac, with new multi-agent abilities includedOpenAI has launched a dedicated macOS app for Codex, its programming agent that can now manage multiple AI assistants working together on complex tasks. The app includes Skills for bundling instructions and tools, and Automations for scheduling repetitive tasks, enabling Codex to function as designer, developer, and QA tester simultaneously for projects like game development.Read more →
Gizmodo...See the Stranger Come to Life Inside the ‘Acolyte’ Artbook (Exclusive)An upcoming art book reveals the creative development behind Star Wars: The Acolyte, including detailed concept designs for the mysterious villain Qimir and insights into where the cancelled series could have progressed. The book features over 200 pages of artwork and interviews exploring the show's characters and untold storylines, offering fans a glimpse of the High Republic era's live-action adaptation.Read more →
TechCrunch...Grubhub waives delivery and service fees on restaurant orders over $50Grubhub is eliminating all delivery and service fees on orders exceeding $50 as a permanent offering, positioning itself competitively against DoorDash and Uber Eats. The initiative, promoted through a Super Bowl 2026 commercial starring George Clooney, aims to provide significant cost savings to customers and boost user growth as the company faces declining monthly active users.Read more →
TechCrunch...OpenAI launches new MacOS app for agentic codingOpenAI launched a new macOS app for Codex, its coding tool, featuring agentic capabilities that allow multiple AI agents to work in parallel on programming tasks. The app includes customizable agent personalities, background automation with scheduled runs, and leverages GPT-5.2-Codex, OpenAI's most powerful coding model, to compete with Claude Code and other AI development tools.Read more →
CNET...Apple's Next M5 MacBook Pros Could Drop With MacOS 26.3Apple is expected to launch MacBook Pro models with M5 Pro and M5 Max processors, alongside macOS 26.3 in February or March. The new laptops will maintain their current design while offering faster processors, with tightening supplies already affecting availability of higher-end models.Read more →
TechCrunch...Notepad++ says Chinese government hackers hijacked its software updates for monthsHackers associated with the Chinese government compromised Notepad++ between June and December 2025, delivering malicious updates to targeted users by exploiting a vulnerability in the shared hosting server. The attack affected organizations with interests in East Asia, granting attackers hands-on access to victim computers until the vulnerability was patched in November.Read more →
The Verge...Former Windows 8 boss recruited Epstein to help negotiate his messy Microsoft exitNewly released Justice Department emails reveal that former Windows executive Steven Sinofsky sought extensive advice from Jeffrey Epstein during his contentious 2012 exit from Microsoft, including sharing confidential information about Surface RT's poor sales performance and negotiating a $14 million settlement package. The correspondence, spanning years, shows Sinofsky also consulted Epstein on potential job opportunities at Apple and Samsung, raising questions about why he maintained contact with a registered sex offender.Read more →
CNET...You Can Adapt That Recipe for the Air Fryer. Here's HowAir fryers have become increasingly popular in American households, with over 70% of adults owning or planning to purchase one. The article provides practical guidance on adapting traditional oven and frying recipes for air fryers, including adjusting temperature and cooking time by 20-30%, managing moisture through marinades or oils, and using breading instead of wet batters for optimal results.Read more →
Engadget...A developer turned Wikipedia into a social media-style feedXikipedia is a web app that creates a social media-style feed of Wikipedia entries designed to replace doomscrolling with educational content. The app uses a client-side algorithm that learns user preferences to suggest relevant articles without collecting or sharing data.Read more →
CNET...Time to Suit Up With Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2 and Quarantine Zone on Game PassXbox Game Pass adds multiple new titles for January, headlined by Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2, a brutal sci-fi action game. The service now offers a diverse library including puzzle games, action RPGs, and narrative adventures across Game Pass Ultimate, Premium, and PC tiers.Read more →
Gizmodo...Elon Musk Is Convinced He Can Turn Low-Earth Orbit Into a Gigantic Data CenterSpaceX filed an FCC application to launch up to 1 million Starlink satellites to create an orbital data center constellation, aiming to provide computing capacity for the AI boom. The proposal raises significant concerns about orbital congestion and collision risks, as Earth orbit already contains over 32,000 satellites and debris, though Musk contends the vast spacing between satellites mitigates safety concerns.Read more →
Gizmodo...The Truth Really Hurts on This Week’s ‘A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms’In A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms episode three, Dunk faces mounting pressures including a corrupting bribery offer and a violent encounter with Prince Aerion Targaryen at a tournament. The episode's pivotal moment reveals that Egg is actually Aegon Targaryen, a royal prince who has been masquerading as a common squire throughout the series.Read more →
The Verge...Abxylute’s new Switch 2 controller is for all the die-hard GameCube fansAbxylute announced two new Nintendo Switch 2 controller options launching on Kickstarter: the N6, featuring Hall effect joysticks and back macro buttons, and the N9C, a GameCube-inspired controller with mechanical switches and an eight-direction gate for fighting games. Both controllers dock directly to the Switch 2's USB-C port for connection and power, offering alternatives to the standard Joy-Cons for handheld play.Read more →
Gizmodo...Right-to-Compute Laws Are Spreading Across the US, as Electricity Bills SkyrocketRight-to-compute laws are spreading through state legislatures, starting with Montana in April, designed to restrict government regulation of computational resources and AI infrastructure. Critics warn these laws primarily benefit large corporations like Meta, Microsoft, and Amazon by limiting state oversight of data center projects, even as nearly 40 states are simultaneously considering AI regulation laws.Read more →
Gizmodo...The Baby Universe Really Was a Goopy Soup, Research SuggestsPhysicists at CERN and MIT have confirmed for the first time that quark-gluon plasma behaves like a liquid by observing waves created by quarks moving through the primordial soup that existed after the Big Bang. Using data from the Large Hadron Collider and tracking Z bosons through 13 billion collisions, researchers found a fluid-like pattern of splashes and swirls matching theoretical predictions, advancing understanding of matter in the early universe.Read more →
Engadget...Grok, which maybe stopped undressing women without their consent, still undresses menElon Musk's Grok chatbot continues to generate non-consensual sexual imagery despite claims of safety improvements, with tests revealing it readily creates explicit deepfakes of men and sexualized content on demand across multiple platforms. The AI's existing safeguards have proven ineffective, with users able to bypass restrictions through creative prompting, and the company dismisses press inquiries as 'legacy media lies' rather than addressing the ongoing violations.Read more →
Engadget...The best board games to gift and play this yearThis article reviews a curated selection of board games across various genres, highlighting titles like Sky Team for cooperative gameplay, Wingspan for strategic habitat building, and Daybreak for climate-themed cooperative challenges. The games range from party games and word puzzles to complex strategy games, each offering unique mechanics and replay value for different player preferences and skill levels.Read more →
The Verge...The Verge’s 2026 Valentine’s Day gift guide (for her)Valentine's Day often comes with more pressure than it needs to. At heart, though, February 14th is about showing appreciation for the people you care about in ways that feel thoughtful and sincere. And while big displays of romance can do that, it's often the quieter, more personal gestures - or a meaningful gift that […]Read more →
CNET...I Asked AI to Predict the Weather. It's About as Reliable as a GroundhogA tech columnist humorously compares the unreliability of AI predictions to Groundhog Day forecasts, asking ChatGPT, Claude, and Gemini to predict whether winter will continue or spring will arrive early. The article highlights how different AI models produce different predictions from the same prompt, illustrating that users should be cautious about trusting AI for critical decisions without verification.Read more →
Engadget...How to watch the 2026 Super Bowl: Patriots vs. Seahawks channel, start time, where to stream and moreSuper Bowl LX will feature the New England Patriots versus the Seattle Seahawks on February 8, 2026, at Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara, with kickoff at 6:30 p.m. ET on NBC and streaming platforms including Peacock. Bad Bunny will headline the halftime show, with additional performances from Charlie Puth, Brandi Carlile, and Coco Jones.Read more →
Gizmodo...This Ancient River Seemed to Flow Uphill. Now We Know WhyResearchers have solved a 150-year geological mystery about how the Green River carved through Utah's Uinta Mountains instead of flowing around them. The study reveals that lithospheric dripping—a process where dense crustal material sinks into the mantle—temporarily lowered the mountains by up to 200 kilometers depth, allowing the river to establish its current path roughly 2-5 million years ago. This discovery may explain other tectonic anomalies and fundamentally altered North America's continental divide and wildlife evolution.Read more →
Gizmodo...Leaks Just Spoiled Sony’s New WF-1000XM6 Wireless EarbudsSony's upcoming WF-1000XM6 wireless earbuds have been leaked, featuring a slimmer design with a more rectangular charging case and matte finish compared to the WF-1000XM5. The earbuds will include additional microphones for improved call clarity and active noise cancellation, along with AI-powered Digital Sound Enhancement Engine (DSEE) Ultimate technology for audio upscaling, with an expected US price around $320.Read more →
Engadget...Blizzard's quality assurance workers finally have a union contractQuality assurance workers at Blizzard's Albany and Austin locations have ratified a union contract after nearly three years of negotiations with Microsoft, securing guaranteed pay increases, fair game credits, disability accommodations, crunch restrictions, and AI usage guardrails. The agreement covers 60 workers and includes protections for immigrant workers, representing a significant win for video game industry labor organizing amid widespread layoffs.Read more →
Gizmodo...Sorry, 8K TVs Have FloppedLG has discontinued its 8K TV lineup, joining most major manufacturers in abandoning the technology due to lack of consumer demand and minimal 8K content availability. Samsung remains the only significant player pursuing 8K televisions, but the format has proven commercially unsuccessful with only 1.6 million units sold since 2015, while 4K continues to dominate with 70% market preference.Read more →
Engadget...ExpressVPN two-year plans are up to 81 percent off right nowExpressVPN is offering an 81 percent discount on its two-year Advanced tier plan, reducing the cost to $88 for 28 months or approximately $3.14 per month, down from the regular $392 price. The service remains a top-rated premium VPN option known for fast speeds, ease of use, and extensive global server coverage, though this promotional pricing temporarily addresses its historically high cost.Read more →
CNET...Ace Combat 7 Leads PS Plus February Lineup With Undisputed, Subnautica: Below Zero and UltrosPlayStation Plus will offer Ace Combat 7: Skies Unknown and three other games (Undisputed, Subnautica: Below Zero, Ultros) to subscribers in February 2025. Subscribers have until March 2 to claim these titles, which remain playable as long as their membership remains active.Read more →
Gizmodo...Last Year’s Other Amazing ‘Predator’ Movie Is Finally Getting Some Love (Exclusive)Mutant Records is releasing the physical media soundtrack for the animated Predator anthology series Predator: Killer of Killers on 140 gm vinyl, featuring Benjamin Wallfisch's original score with exclusive artwork by Oliver Barrett and liner notes by director Dan Trachtenberg. The soundtrack becomes available for presale on January 30 for $30, with an additional vinyl release of the Predator: Badlands score also planned.Read more →
Gizmodo...That Soothing Sleep Noise Might Be Sabotaging Your DreamsA University of Pennsylvania study found that pink noise and other broadband sounds reduce REM sleep by approximately 19 minutes per night, contrary to popular belief about their sleep benefits. The research suggests these sounds are ineffective at mitigating aircraft noise disruption and potentially harmful for infants and toddlers whose neurodevelopment depends on REM sleep, prompting researchers to recommend against their indiscriminate use.Read more →
Gizmodo...Markiplier’s Indie Sci-Fi Horror Movie Thrashed ‘Melania’ at the Box Office This WeekendMarkiplier's independent sci-fi horror film Iron Lung achieved a surprising $18 million opening weekend, nearly matching Disney's Sam Raimi horror film Send Help at $20 million, despite a modest $3 million budget. Amazon's Melania documentary, which received significant corporate investment and marketing support, opened at $7 million but faced critical backlash and controversy.Read more →
The Verge...Sony’s last-gen, but still great 1000XM5 are cheaper than everSony's WH-1000XM5 headphones are available at their lowest-ever price of $204.56 at Adorama using code JHCE9834, representing a 49% discount from the original $399 price. The flagship model offers excellent sound quality, comfort, and industry-leading active noise cancellation, making it a compelling alternative to the newer XM6 model for price-conscious consumers.Read more →
The Verge...OpenClaw: all the news about the trending AI agentMoltbook is a new social network platform for AI agents built by Octane AI CEO Matt Schlicht, allowing over 30,000 bots to post, comment, and interact through API interfaces rather than visual interfaces. The platform emerges as AI agents like Moltbot gain traction for practical applications including task automation, health tracking, and client communication across messaging platforms.Read more →
Engadget...Super Bowl 2026 TV deals: The best sales this week on OLEDs and other smart TVs ahead of kickoffSuper Bowl 2026 is driving TV sales with significant discounts on models ranging from budget-friendly 1080p sets under $500 to premium OLED displays. Retailers are offering deep discounts on 2025 TV models ahead of 2026 releases, with additional deals on streaming devices and home theater accessories to complete entertainment setups.Read more →
TechCrunch...Ring brings its ‘Search Party’ feature for finding lost dogs to non-Ring camera ownersRing's AI-powered Search Party feature, which scans community camera networks to locate lost dogs, is now available to all U.S. customers including those without Ring cameras. The expansion includes a $1 million commitment to equip 4,000 animal shelters with Ring systems, aiming to improve lost pet recovery rates that have already exceeded one reunification per day since launch.Read more →
Engadget...The Apple Watch Series 11 is back on sale for $299The Apple Watch Series 11 is currently available at a 25 percent discount, priced at $299 down from $399, marking its record-low price. The 2025 smartwatch model features 24+ hours of battery life, a lightweight design, and new health monitoring capabilities including hypertension alerts and Sleep Score functionality.Read more →
The Verge...The Epstein filesThe Department of Justice has released more of its records on self-described “science philanthropist” and convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Other than Epstein, they’ve also brought an intense focus on the many powerful people who associated and corresponded with him, including Bill Gates, Elon Musk, Google co-founder Sergey Brin, and President Donald Trump. There’s also […]Read more →
Engadget...Stranger Things: Tales From ‘85 hits Netflix on April 23Netflix will release Stranger Things: Tales From '85, an animated spin-off series, on April 23. The show is set during the winter between seasons 2 and 3, following events after Eleven closes the gate to the Upside Down, with remaining threats from the other dimension persisting in the characters' world.Read more →
Gizmodo...‘Scream 7’ Calls in Early With Its New Super Bowl TrailerParamount released a promotional spot for Scream 7, revealing that the film takes place in Pine Grove, Indiana where Sidney Prescott's peaceful family life is disrupted by a new Ghostface killer. The movie reunites original characters Sidney, Gale, and introduces her daughter Tatum alongside the Meeks-Martin twins to face a killer with a mysterious obsession with Sidney who recently escaped a psychiatric hospital.Read more →
The Verge...Docusign's CEO on the dangers of trusting AI to read, and write, your contractsDocusign CEO Allan Thygeson discusses the company's evolution from a digital signature platform to an intelligent agreement management system powered by AI. The expansion aims to address inefficiencies across the entire contract lifecycle while leveraging Docusign's unique dataset of 150 million consented agreements to provide accurate AI-driven insights and automation.Read more →
The Verge...Dragon Quest gets another great remake that’s perfect for newcomersDragon Quest VII Reimagined is positioned as an ideal entry point for newcomers to the long-running RPG series, featuring quality-of-life improvements, modernized graphics with diorama-style visuals, and a unique episodic structure that breaks the game into digestible story segments across different islands. The remake's combination of streamlined gameplay, helpful story recaps, and less-intimidating narrative design makes it more accessible than other mainline Dragon Quest titles.Read more →
TechCrunch...Carbon Robotics built an AI model that detects and identifies plantsCarbon Robotics unveiled its Large Plant Model (LPM), an AI system trained on 150 million plant images that enables autonomous laser-equipped robots to instantly recognize and eliminate weeds without retraining. The breakthrough eliminates the previous 24-hour retraining process, allowing farmers to identify new weeds in real-time through a simple interface update.Read more →
TechCrunch...Coalition demands federal Grok ban over nonconsensual sexual contentA coalition of nonprofits is urging the U.S. government to suspend deployment of Grok, xAI's chatbot, in federal agencies due to documented safety failures including generation of nonconsensual sexual imagery and child sexual abuse material. The letter argues that Grok's demonstrated unsafe behavior, including anti-semitic content and biased outputs, violates the administration's own AI safety requirements and poses national security risks, particularly given its planned use in the Pentagon with access to classified documents.Read more →
CNET...Yes, You Can Stream Every Single Winter Olympic Event With a VPNThe 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan and Cortina will be broadcast in the US through NBC, Peacock, and cable networks, but international viewers and those seeking free options can use VPNs to access free streams from other countries like the BBC, CBC, and RaiPlay. VPNs work by masking your IP address to appear as though you're connecting from another location, though users should opt for paid VPN services rather than free alternatives due to security and performance concerns.Read more →
CNET...Super Bowl 2026 Ads Are Buzzing Now: Sneak Peeks at 'Scream 7,' Michelob and MoreThis article previews Super Bowl LX commercials and promotional campaigns from major brands including Pepsi, Instacart, Budweiser, and others, featuring celebrity appearances and creative teasers ahead of the February 8th game. The ads span categories from food delivery and beverages to wellness products and entertainment, with many brands releasing sneak peeks to build anticipation for their full game-day spots.Read more →
Gizmodo...Sam Raimi Still Has Hope for a ‘Spider-Man 4’Multiple Hollywood productions are in development with notable casting and directorial announcements, including Margaret Qualley and Callum Turner joining the Possession remake, unexpected returns confirmed for Scream 7, and principal photography wrapping on Greta Gerwig's Narnia adaptation. Sam Raimi expressed openness to directing a fourth Spider-Man film with Tobey Maguire if circumstances allow, though he acknowledges Marvel's current success with their own Spider-Man franchise.Read more →
TechCrunch...UpScrolled’s founder says the social network has zoomed past 2.5M usersUpScrolled, a social network launched six months ago, has rapidly grown to 2.5 million users following TikTok's ownership restructuring in the U.S. in January. The platform positions itself as a censorship-free alternative to major social networks, combining features of Instagram and X while claiming not to shadowban users or suppress content. The company plans to establish community guidelines and is exploring moderation strategies to balance free expression with legal compliance across different regions.Read more →
TechCrunch...Linq raises $20M to enable AI assistants to live within messaging appsLinq, a Birmingham-based startup, pivoted from digital business cards to become an infrastructure platform enabling AI agents and businesses to communicate with customers directly through iMessage, RCS, and SMS with native blue-bubble messaging. The company raised $20 million in Series A funding and has doubled its annual recurring revenue within eight months by capitalizing on the growing demand for AI assistants that operate natively within messaging apps rather than requiring separate applications.Read more →
The Verge...Elon Musk’s Grok is still undressing menX's Grok chatbot continues to generate nonconsensual sexual deepfakes despite claimed restrictions, with testing showing the AI readily produces revealing images of clothed individuals through creative prompting. Despite paywall limitations and claimed safeguards implemented in January, the tool remains freely accessible on standalone apps and websites, evading restrictions and drawing regulatory scrutiny from multiple countries including the UK and EU.Read more →
Engadget...The latest iPad mini is $100 off right nowThe Apple iPad mini with A17 Pro chip is currently discounted to $400 from its regular $500 price, featuring a compact 8.3-inch display and 128GB storage. This late 2024 model offers strong performance, Apple Intelligence capabilities, and dual rear cameras, making it an ideal portable device for entertainment and daily use during winter months.Read more →
Gizmodo...The ‘Stranger Things: Tales from ’85’ Trailer Takes You Back to HawkinsNetflix is launching Stranger Things: Tales from '85, an animated spinoff set between seasons two and three, featuring the Hawkins gang battling new Upside Down threats including a pumpkin-headed creature. The series will premiere on April 23 with a new voice cast and involvement from the original show's creators, the Duffer Brothers and Shawn Levy.Read more →
CNET...Crunchyroll Is Raising Subscription Prices. Here's How Your Plan Will ChangeCrunchyroll has increased subscription prices by $2 across all tiers, effective immediately for new customers and rolling out to existing subscribers in March. The Fan plan rises from $8 to $10, Mega Fan from $12 to $14, and Ultimate Fan from $16 to $18 monthly, with the company offering limited-time annual plan discounts to offset the increase.Read more →
The Verge...Now anyone can tap Ring doorbells to search for lost dogsRing is opening its Search Party pet finder service to non-Ring owners through the free Ring Neighbors app. The service has helped reunite owners with "more than one lost dog a day" since launch, according to the company. Anyone in the US can share a photo of their missing pet after they download and register […]Read more →
Engadget...Get up to 20 percent off Sonos home theater gear before Super Bowl 2026Sonos is offering significant discounts on home theater equipment ahead of Super Bowl 2026, with savings up to 20 percent on soundbars, subwoofers, and speakers. Key deals include the Beam Gen 2 soundbar at $369 (down $130), the Arc Ultra at $899 (from $1,099), and various subwoofers and portable speakers at reduced prices.Read more →
Engadget...Anker's 45W Nano charger with smart display is $10 offAnker unveiled an upgraded Nano charger with a smart display at CES 2026, now available for $30 on Amazon with a $10 coupon discount. The 45W charger features real-time power monitoring, automatic device recognition, and intelligent battery optimization across multiple device types including iPhones, Apple Watches, and Samsung devices.Read more →
Engadget...The 512GB Samsung P9 microSD Express card is 33 percent off right nowSamsung's P9 microSD Express card is currently on sale at $80 for the 512GB model, offering 33% off and representing one of the best prices available. With transfer speeds up to 800MB/s, the P9 is an ideal storage expansion solution for the Nintendo Switch 2, which exclusively requires microSD Express cards for storage upgrades.Read more →
CNET...Apple's Button-Less, All-Glass iPhone 20: The Huge Redesign Coming in 2027Apple is reportedly planning a major redesigned iPhone for 2027, marking the device's 20th anniversary. The iPhone 20 is expected to feature an all-glass design without physical buttons, an all-screen display without cutouts, improved OLED technology, advanced 2nm processors, and potentially silicon anode batteries for increased capacity. This anniversary edition could serve as an ultra-premium model positioned above the iPhone Pro line, with pricing likely starting around $1,000 or higher.Read more →
Gizmodo...Steven Spielberg Lands EGOT Status With New Grammy WinAfter decades of films and accolades, Steven Spielberg hit the grand slam after his now award-winning documentary focused on John Williams.Read more →
The Verge...Vivo and Oppo’s telephoto extender comes to iPhonePGYTech has launched a Kickstarter campaign for the RetroVa Vintage Imaging Kit, an accessory set for iPhones that includes a custom case, slide-on grip with battery and controls, and a 2.35x telephoto lens extender. The kit functions only within PGYTech's proprietary camera app and costs $229.95, with early Kickstarter pricing at $184, though concerns exist regarding case build quality relative to the price point.Read more →
Gizmodo...The 2026 Super Bowl May Be Free of Superhero MoviesMarvel Studios is reportedly skipping Super Bowl advertising for Avengers: Doomsday and Spider-Man: Brand New Day, likely because their late 2026 release dates don't align with the February marketing window. Other studios are expected to advertise various films during Super Bowl LX, with DC, Netflix, and Apple potentially using alternative promotional timing strategies.Read more →
Engadget...TikTok says it's 'back to normal' after winter storm-related outagesTikTok experienced a major outage affecting US operations following a winter storm that impacted Oracle's primary data center site, resulting in display errors, missing views, and earnings visibility issues that lasted several days. The platform has since restored normal service, though some users reported uninstalling the app due to the outages and concerns over content moderation following Oracle's recent assumption of TikTok's domestic operations.Read more →
CNET...I Hate How Much I Love This Hydration-Tracking Water BottleThe LARQ Bottle PureVis 2 is a smart water bottle with UV-C LED sanitization and hydration tracking via a companion app that helps users monitor daily water intake through multiple visual indicators and reminders. While the premium price ($129-$139) and need for manual cleaning are drawbacks, the bottle's tracking features and environmental impact data make it valuable for maintaining adequate hydration and reducing plastic waste.Read more →
CNET...Prime Video's 23 Best Sci-Fi TV Shows You Should Stream NowPrime Video offers a curated collection of science fiction shows that stand out for their indie sensibilities and boundary-pushing narratives across various tones from dystopian to lighthearted content. The streaming platform's sci-fi selection is regularly updated and recommended for viewers seeking high-quality genre programming.Read more →
CNET...Your Guide on How to Watch the Winter Olympics 2026 Opening CeremonyThe 2026 Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics opening ceremony will air on February 6 at 2 p.m. ET, featuring performances from Mariah Carey, Andrea Bocelli, and other international artists across Milan's San Siro Stadium and satellite venues throughout the city. The ceremony will be broadcast live on NBC and Peacock, with coverage lasting approximately three hours and hosted by Savannah Guthrie and Terry Gannon.Read more →
The Verge...The tragedy of SupernaturalMeta shut down content production for Supernatural, a popular VR fitness game, as part of Reality Labs layoffs, devastating a dedicated community primarily composed of women, older adults, and people with limited mobility who relied on it for accessible fitness and social connection. The shutdown has sparked a grassroots campaign to save the game, with fans criticizing Meta's mismanagement since acquiring the game in 2023 and expressing concerns about the loss of community support, coaches, and future content availability.Read more →
Gizmodo...Anti-ICE Protesters Have Started a Month-Long Tech and AI Boycott. Here’s How It WorksNYU professor Scott Galloway is leading "Resist and Unsubscribe," a month-long economic boycott targeting 19 major tech and consumer companies, aiming to pressure them to distance themselves from Trump administration immigration policies and ICE contracts. The movement asks consumers to cancel subscriptions to services like Amazon Prime, Netflix, and ChatGPT Plus, and to avoid purchasing from companies with government contracting relationships with ICE, leveraging economic pressure as a response to what organizers view as corporate complicity in immigration enforcement.Read more →
Engadget...The best noise-canceling earbuds for 2026This article provides a comprehensive guide to choosing and testing noise-canceling earbuds for 2026, covering key factors like design, ANC technology types (hybrid vs. adaptive), and customization options. It outlines the publication's rigorous testing methodology, which includes extended real-world use across various noise environments, battery drain testing, and evaluation of companion app features.Read more →
Engadget...The best projector for a home theater in 2026This comprehensive guide examines key considerations for selecting projectors in 2026, covering brightness, resolution, technology types (DLP vs LCD, laser vs bulb), and installation options (classic ceiling-mounted vs ultra short throw models). The article addresses important specifications like lumens, HDR capabilities, and gaming performance to help buyers choose the right projector for their specific use case and budget.Read more →
TechCrunch...These AI notetaking devices can help you record and transcribe your meetingsThe article reviews physical AI notetakers for in-person meetings, including credit-card-sized devices and wearable pins that transcribe audio and extract summaries and action items. Featured products range from $89 to $200, with varying transcription limits, recording durations, language support, and features like live translation and highlight extraction.Read more →
TechCrunch...TikTok says its services are restored after the outageTikTok restored service following a significant outage caused by winter weather that impacted an Oracle-operated data center in the U.S., affecting core features like content posting, discovery, and engagement metrics for its 220 million American users. The outage occurred shortly after the finalization of the deal transferring TikTok to new U.S. ownership through a consortium that acquired an 80% controlling stake.Read more →
CNET...Today's NYT Connections: Sports Edition Hints and Answers for Feb. 3, #498The New York Times publishes a sports-themed Connections puzzle through The Athletic subscription service, with daily hints and answers available for players. The puzzle features four themed groups covering baseball terminology, championship rewards, UConn basketball players, and Mountain West college mascots.Read more →
CNET...Today's NYT Connections: Sports Edition Hints and Answers for Feb. 2, #497This article provides hints and answers for the New York Times Connections: Sports Edition puzzle, a subscription-based word puzzle game published by The Athletic. The puzzle features four groupings themed around sports teams and terminology, with difficulty levels ranging from identifying Texas college teams to determining words that can precede 'five.'Read more →
TechCrunch...AI layoffs or ‘AI-washing’?Companies are increasingly citing artificial intelligence as justification for layoffs in 2025, with over 50,000 jobs attributed to AI-related restructuring. However, analysts argue many firms lack mature AI applications to justify these cuts, suggesting the trend represents 'AI-washing' where companies use AI as a convenient cover for pandemic-era over-hiring and business challenges.Read more →
Engadget...Apex Legends won't be playable on Nintendo Switch after its next seasonRespawn is ending Nintendo Switch support for Apex Legends on August 4, 2026, with Season 30 being the first season exclusive to Switch 2 and other platforms. Player accounts, purchases, and cosmetics will transfer to Switch 2, though original Switch players will need to upgrade to continue playing.Read more →
Gizmodo...European Tech Giant Cuts Off U.S. Subsidiary After Multimillion Dollar ICE ContractFrench tech giant Capgemini announced it will divest from its U.S. subsidiary Capgemini Government Solutions following backlash over a $365 million contract to provide ICE with surveillance technology for tracking immigrants. The divestment comes after mounting pressure from French government officials, unions, and international protests against the company's involvement in immigration enforcement operations.Read more →
Gizmodo...‘Upgrade’ Producer Dishes On the TV Sequel That Almost WasA proposed Upgrade TV series for Peacock, set to follow four criminals implanted with a STEM chip, was canceled due to leadership changes and concerns about airing police-themed content during a period of anti-police sentiment. The project, which had completed scripts and a writers room, was shelved after a new executive dismissed it without considering the work already completed.Read more →
Gizmodo...Emails Show Even Epstein Thought Crypto Pumps are UnethicalRecently released Epstein files reveal the disgraced financier had early involvement with Bitcoin and cryptocurrency startups, including potential investments in Coinbase and Blockstream through various intermediaries. The documents show Epstein attempted to connect with Bitcoin Core developers and maintained business arrangements with crypto figures, while expressing concerns about profiting from token price manipulation.Read more →
TechCrunch...Why Tether’s CEO is everywhere right nowTether CEO Paolo Ardoino is undertaking a major media campaign to rebrand the controversial stablecoin company as legitimate and essential, launching USAT as a U.S.-regulated competitor to Circle's USDC while positioning Tether as a financial inclusion powerhouse serving underbanked populations globally. The company is expanding beyond stablecoins into gold tokenization, decentralized AI platforms, and other ventures as part of Ardoino's broader vision of Tether as a sovereign wealth fund addressing infrastructure gaps in emerging markets.Read more →
Engadget...Apple is already thinking about its second foldable iPhone, and it may be a clamshellApple is exploring a square, clamshell-style foldable phone as a potential follow-up to its first foldable iPhone, though the device remains far from guaranteed to reach the market. The company's consideration of this smaller foldable suggests confidence in the success of its initial foldable offering and plans to compete with existing options like Samsung's Galaxy Z Flip 7 and Motorola's Razr.Read more →
CNET...My Current Netflix Food Show Obsession Is Like a Fever Dream Spin-Off of 'The Bear'Just a Dash, a cooking show hosted by Matty Matheson, has returned for season 3 with a new format that blends avant-garde performance art with chaotic cooking challenges in precarious real-world locations. The show combines gonzo culinary antics with comedic interactions and heartfelt moments, offering a refreshingly unconventional take on the traditional food show genre.Read more →
Gizmodo...Matthew Lillard Is Happy Netflix Is Bringing ‘Scooby-Doo’ BackNetflix is developing a live-action Scooby-Doo adaptation following its acquisition of The Addams Family and Avatar: The Last Airbender franchises. Matthew Lillard, who played Shaggy in previous Scooby-Doo films, expressed approval for the project and urged Netflix to preserve the franchise's core themes of friendship and mystery-solving rather than fundamentally reimagining the concept.Read more →
Gizmodo...Apple Leadership Is Quietly Getting AI-Pilled, Report ClaimsApple executives are concerned about the company's position in an AI-first technology landscape, particularly given recent setbacks like losing AI boss John Giannandrea and relying on Google for functional AI integration. The company is reportedly planning a diversified AI strategy centered around updated Siri and new AI-powered devices including earbuds, wearables, and smart home products to maintain its competitive edge.Read more →
The Verge...Bill Gates says accusations contained in Epstein files are ‘absolutely absurd’New Department of Justice documents contain alleged emails from Jeffrey Epstein making unsubstantiated claims about Bill Gates' personal conduct, which Gates' spokesperson has dismissed as completely false and an attempt by Epstein to defame him. The documents add to ongoing scrutiny of Gates' past connections with Epstein, a relationship that Gates has acknowledged was a mistake and which reportedly influenced Melinda Gates' divorce decision.Read more →
TechCrunch...Amazon’s ‘Melania’ documentary makes $7M on opening weekendThe documentary 'Melania' earned $7.04 million in its opening weekend, underperforming its $40 million acquisition cost and $35 million marketing spend despite exceeding initial projections. The film received critical acclaim with a 7% Metacritic score, raising questions about Amazon's motivations given its bid was $26 million higher than Disney's and director Brett Ratner's involvement following past harassment allegations.Read more →
Engadget...Apple's online store now lets you build a new Mac exactly the way you wantApple has updated its Mac online configurator to allow customers to customize individual specifications similar to iPhone purchasing, rather than selecting from prebuilt configurations. The new tool enables buyers to choose color, display, chip, memory, storage, power adapter, and pre-installed apps, providing greater flexibility in Mac configuration.Read more →
The Verge...Shedding light on Iran’s longest internet blackoutIran implemented its longest internet shutdown following January protests, with death tolls estimated between 3,000 and 30,000, to suppress information flow and prevent documentation of state violence. The regime uses internet shutdowns, censorship, and AI manipulation to control narratives and deny crimes, while citizens employ VPNs, Telegram, Instagram, and increasingly Starlink terminals to circumvent restrictions and document abuses. Technology serves as both a tool for repression and resistance, with satellite internet emerging as a critical lifeline for documentation and connectivity during government-imposed blackouts.Read more →
CNET...5 Best Multivitamins for Women Over 50 in 2026This article is not a tech news article and therefore cannot be analyzed according to the provided instructions. It is a consumer product review for multivitamins targeted at women over 50, which falls outside the scope of technology and innovation news coverage.Read more →
CNET...NordVPN Software Blocked 92% of Phishing Emails in Independent TestingNordVPN's Threat Protection Pro blocked 92% of phishing websites in an independent AV-Comparatives lab test, ranking fourth among security products tested. The test evaluated 15 products against 250 verified phishing URLs, highlighting the growing threat of AI-enhanced phishing attacks which have increased 4,151% since ChatGPT's launch in 2022.Read more →
The Verge...You need to listen to M83’s icy post-rock record Dead Cities, Red Seas & Lost GhostsNew York City got hit with a hell of a snowstorm last week. And, inevitably, when I'm watching the snow fall, wandering the oddly quiet streets after dark, people hiding inside and staying warm, I put on M83's sophomore record, Dead Cities, Red Seas & Lost Ghosts. Before Nicolas Fromageau left the band and Anthony […]Read more →
Engadget...Indonesia is lifting its ban on Grok, but with some conditionsIndonesia has lifted its ban on Grok after X implemented safeguards to prevent the creation of sexualized deepfakes, particularly those involving minors. The government will continue monitoring the platform and reserves the right to reimpose restrictions if violations occur.Read more →
CNET...The Best Workout Apps for Women in 2026: Tried and TestedA comprehensive review of the best workout apps for women in 2026, featuring EvolveYou as the top overall choice for its customizable routines and holistic approach. The article evaluates six major fitness apps based on customization, workout variety, nutrition planning, and user experience, with options ranging from strength training to low-impact Pilates, all priced between $15-$30 monthly.Read more →
Gizmodo...‘Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle’ Returns to Theaters in JapanSony is re-releasing the anime film Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle in select Japanese and Philippine theaters starting February 20 with advanced projection formats including 4DX and ScreenX. This marks the first anime ever to receive the ScreenX treatment and the first Demon Slayer theatrical release to get a re-release, capitalizing on the film's record-breaking box office success.Read more →
TechCrunch...Indonesia ‘conditionally’ lifts ban on GrokIndonesia has lifted its ban on xAI's Grok chatbot following assurances from X regarding service improvements and misuse prevention, joining Malaysia and the Philippines in reversing similar restrictions. The ban was initially implemented due to Grok's widespread misuse in generating approximately 1.8 million nonconsensual sexualized images, including those of minors, though xAI has since implemented limitations such as restricting image generation to paying subscribers.Read more →
TechCrunch...TechCrunch Mobility: The great Tesla rebrandingTesla's 2025 revenue reached $94.8 billion, with 74% dependent on EV sales and related credits, as the company pivots toward AI, robotics, and energy businesses to offset declining vehicle sales. The company announced major strategic shifts including discontinuing the Model S and X, investing $2 billion in xAI, and planning a significant capital expenditure of $20 billion in 2026, signaling a transformation beyond its core EV business.Read more →
TechCrunch...India offers zero taxes through 2047 to lure global AI workloadsIndia announced a zero-tax holiday through 2047 for foreign cloud providers running AI workloads from Indian data centers, alongside major investments from Google ($15B), Microsoft ($17.5B), and Amazon ($35B) to expand infrastructure in the country. The initiative positions India as a strategic hub for global AI computing, though success depends on overcoming challenges in power availability, water scarcity, and execution of supporting infrastructure projects.Read more →
CNET...Best Mental Health Apps of 2026This article reviews the best mental health apps available in 2026, covering eight popular options including Headspace, Calm, and Talkspace that offer features ranging from meditation and mood tracking to online therapy. The apps vary by price, credentials, and functionality, with experts noting they serve as effective supplements to traditional therapy for stress management and mental health support, though they are not intended to replace professional treatment.Read more →
CNET...Prime Video: The 16 Absolute Best Movies to WatchPrime Video offers a curated selection of quality original films across multiple genres, including acclaimed comedies, documentaries, thrillers, and dramas featuring notable actors and filmmakers. The streaming service provides access to award-winning content alongside new releases, with February bringing several new titles including romantic comedies, action thrillers, and documentaries.Read more →
The Verge...This tiny pocket-friendly e-reader is packed with frustration and potentialThe Xteink X4 is an ultra-compact 4.3-inch e-reader priced at $69 that prioritizes portability over features, making it significantly smaller than competitors like the Kobo Mini. While it suffers from unintuitive button controls, limited software functionality, and compatibility issues with iPhone MagSafe, an active community has improved its usability through open-source firmware alternatives like CrossPoint Reader, making it a viable option for readers who prioritize pocketability.Read more →
CNET...Best Portable Projector for Movies and Gaming Anywhere in 2026CNET reviews the best portable projectors for 2025, recommending the Anker Nebula Mars 3 Air as the top overall choice for its balance of size, performance, and price. The article evaluates multiple portable projector models across different price points and use cases, from ultra-compact options like the AAXA P8 to premium models like the Anker Nebula X1, helping consumers choose based on brightness, battery life, resolution, and specific needs.Read more →
CNET...Strength Training for Beginners: How to Build a Workout Program That Will Make 2026 Your Strongest Year YetThis comprehensive guide provides beginners with essential strength training fundamentals, including proper program design, foundational exercises, and equipment selection to safely build muscle and achieve fitness goals. The article emphasizes starting with two to three weekly sessions of full-body workouts using compound movements, progressive overload, and adequate recovery to maximize results while minimizing injury risk.Read more →
TechCrunch...Bye-bye corporate conglomerates. Hello personal conglomerates.Elon Musk is building a sprawling business empire across aerospace, energy, AI, social media, and other sectors, drawing comparisons to historical figures like Jack Welch and Gilded Age robber barons. With a net worth approaching $800 billion and control over Tesla, SpaceX, xAI, Neuralink, and other ventures, Musk is reportedly exploring mergers to consolidate his companies into a modern conglomerate, raising questions about concentrated corporate power and regulatory oversight.Read more →
Gizmodo...When Does ‘The Last of Us’ End? HBO Doesn’t KnowHBO is developing a third season of The Last of Us, with showrunner Craig Mazin indicating the adaptation of Part II may require up to four seasons to properly conclude the complex narrative. The exact duration of the series remains uncertain, though the network has confirmed production will continue, with Season 2 not returning until 2027.Read more →
The Verge...I don’t hate the robot barista like I thought I wouldArtly has deployed Jarvis, a robotic arm barista in Seattle that can make espresso drinks comparable to or better than many human baristas by mimicking the movements of a US Coffee Championship winner. While the robot excels at consistency and reliability, the article explores whether automation can truly replace the human element and community atmosphere that defines coffee shop culture.Read more →
CNET...Do Nighttime Driving Glasses Work? A Science-Backed Guide for This WinterNight driving glasses use yellow-tinted lenses with anti-reflective coatings to reduce glare from modern LED headlights and improve contrast in low-light conditions. While they may decrease eyestrain, research suggests they could reduce overall light intake and pedestrian visibility, making regular eye doctor consultations essential before use.Read more →
CNET...4 TV Shows That Will Get You Pumped for the 2026 Winter OlympicsThis article highlights Netflix documentaries exploring major Winter Olympic scandals and moments, including the 1980 US ice hockey team's underdog victory over the USSR, the 2002 figure skating judging controversy involving Russian and Canadian pairs, and the 1994 attack on Nancy Kerrigan linked to rival Tonya Harding. The documentaries feature new interviews and previously unseen footage that examine how these events shaped Olympic history and reforms in competition judging.Read more →
The Verge...Antigravity’s 360-degree A1 drone is 15 percent offAntigravity's A1 360-degree drone is receiving its first-ever discount, with the base model dropping from $1,599 to $1,359 through February 9th. The drone features 8K 30fps and 5.7K 60fps video capabilities with an included VR headset providing 360-degree first-person perspective. A new Flight Simulator feature launched January 29th allows users to practice flying virtually before operating the physical drone.Read more →
CNET...Kite-Powered Sailboat Aims to Become World's Fastest This YearThe SP80 team is developing an innovative kite-powered trimaran sailboat designed to break the world sailing speed record of 68.3 knots by reaching 80 knots (92 mph). After achieving 58 knots during testing off France, the team is relocating to Namibia in summer 2026, which offers ideal speed-sailing conditions with flat water and strong winds, with specialized safety protocols in place for the two-pilot crew.Read more →
CNET...These Are the Weirdest Phones I've Tested Over 14 YearsA CNET journalist reflects on 14 years of mobile phone testing, highlighting unusual devices that attempted innovation through unconventional designs and features—from BlackBerry's square Passport to Samsung's original foldable Galaxy Fold. These phones prioritized gimmicks and niche audiences over practical usability, ultimately failing to achieve mainstream success despite their technical boldness.Read more →
CNET...Every Season of This Beloved Hallmark Series Is Now on NetflixThe Way Home, a Hallmark family drama with time-travel mystery elements, is returning for a fourth season this spring and will be available on Netflix starting February 1st, making all episodes accessible without a Hallmark Plus subscription. The show stands out from typical Hallmark productions due to its complex plotting and science fiction elements, originally developed for Netflix before being brought to the network by a former Netflix executive.Read more →
Gizmodo...SwitchBot Lock Ultra Review: A Good Retrofit Smart Lock for Secondary DoorsA versatile solution to retrofit your existing door lock.Read more →
The Verge...The telephoto is the only phone camera that really mattersSmartphone manufacturers are escalating competition in telephoto camera technology, moving beyond optical zoom improvements to more extravagant hardware setups including multiple lenses, rotating zoom rings, and external lens attachments. As main cameras and other smartphone specs have become commoditized, telephoto cameras represent one of the few remaining areas for manufacturers to differentiate their devices and showcase meaningful improvements in photo quality.Read more →
Engadget...How to replace your AirTag batteryApple's AirTag uses a replaceable CR2032 coin cell battery that lasts approximately one year and can be swapped in minutes without tools. The iPhone automatically alerts users when the battery is low, and replacement requires only pressing and rotating the metal cover to access the battery compartment.Read more →
CNET...Can Vibration Plates Help Achieve Fitness Goals? This Is What Fitness Experts SayVibration plates are exercise machines that induce rapid muscle contractions and offer benefits including improved muscle tone, circulation, and bone density when combined with regular exercise and a healthy diet. While generally safe for most people, they are not a substitute for traditional exercise and require proper usage to avoid potential risks like joint stress or aggravation of existing conditions.Read more →
CNET...Lenovo Yoga Pro 9i 16 Aura Edition Review: Kick-Ass Laptop for CreatorsThe Lenovo Yoga Pro 9i 16 Aura Edition is a high-performance traditional laptop featuring a Core Ultra 9 CPU, RTX 5050 GPU, and stunning 2.8K OLED display, positioned for creators and productivity users. Despite modest exterior design, it excels in performance, thermal management, and display quality, earning an Editors' Choice award at $1,950.Read more →
CNET...Best Walking Pad for Remote WorkA fitness expert tested under-desk treadmills as a convenient way to maintain daily step counts while working indoors during colder months. These compact treadmills can reach speeds of 5-6 mph, fit under desks or furniture for storage, and offer a practical solution for busy professionals seeking to incorporate movement into their workday, though they require good balance and may not suit those seeking intensive workouts.Read more →
CNET...These 8 Foods Can Help You Build Muscle and Hit Your Fitness Goals in 2026Proper nutrition is essential for building muscle, as exercise alone breaks down muscle fibers that must be rebuilt through adequate protein, carbohydrates, vitamins and minerals. CNET provides eight affordable, nutrient-dense foods including eggs, fish, Greek yogurt, and quinoa that support muscle recovery and growth when combined with resistance training and proper rest.Read more →
CNET...I Worried I'd Hate My New Induction Stove. 4 Reasons I'm Ditching Gas ForeverA longtime gas stove user switched to an induction range after concerns about air quality and fire safety, finding it superior for speed, precision, safety, and cleanliness. After over a year of use, the author confirms induction cooking is faster, more energy-efficient, and easier to maintain, with smart app features providing unexpected practical value like remote burner monitoring.Read more →
CNET...Kodak Charmera Review: A Cute Keychain Camera That's Beyond RetroThe Kodak Charmera is a $35 keychain-sized camera with extremely poor image quality due to its tiny 1/4-inch sensor, but serves as an entertaining novelty toy and conversation starter. Marketed through blind boxes and manufactured scarcity, the device's appeal lies in its cute retro design rather than its practical photography capabilities.Read more →
CNET...These 6 Soundbars Are the Best of 2026This article is a soundbar buying guide from CNET that reviews multiple soundbar options across different price points and use cases, from budget models under $200 to premium options over $1,000. The guide provides detailed comparisons of features, audio formats, connectivity options, and testing methodology to help consumers select the right soundbar based on their needs, room size, and budget.Read more →
CNET...La Liga Soccer: Stream Real Madrid vs. Rayo Vallecano Live From AnywhereThis article is about sports scheduling and broadcast information for a La Liga soccer match between Real Madrid and Rayo Vallecano. It is not relevant to technology news.Read more →
Gizmodo...What If the Sensors on Your Car Were Inspecting Potholes for the Government? Honda Found OutHonda partnered with Ohio's transportation department to test a system that uses vehicle sensors and cameras to detect road damage, potholes, and infrastructure issues, eliminating the need for manual inspections. The pilot program proved 99% effective at finding damaged signs, 93% for guardrails, and 89% for potholes, with potential annual savings of $4.5 million in maintenance costs for Ohio DOT.Read more →
TechCrunch...Meet the new European unicorns of 2026Five European tech startups achieved unicorn status in January 2025, including Belgium's Aikido Security (cybersecurity), Lithuania's Cast AI (cloud optimization), France's Harmattan AI (defense tech), Germany's Osapiens (ESG software), and Ukraine's Preply (edtech). This milestone reflects strong venture capital appetite for European technology companies despite economic uncertainties, with these companies demonstrating significant revenue growth and global market traction across various sectors.Read more →
CNET...Today's NYT Connections: Sports Edition Hints and Answers for Feb. 1, #496The New York Times' Connections: Sports Edition puzzle features four themed groups including aquatic sports verbs, speed-related words, sports card brands, and tennis Grand Slam winners with a letter removed from each name. The puzzle is published by The Athletic and available through their app or free online.Read more →
The Verge...Nvidia CEO denies he’s ‘unhappy’ with OpenAINvidia CEO Jensen Huang announced a major investment in OpenAI, describing it as likely the largest investment Nvidia has ever made. Huang expressed strong confidence in OpenAI's work and its significance as one of the most consequential companies of the era.Read more →
TechCrunch...Waymo reportedly raising a $16 billion funding roundWaymo has nearly completed a $16 billion funding round that values the autonomous robotaxi company at $110 billion, with Alphabet providing more than three-fourths of the capital alongside new investors Dragoneer, Sequoia Capital, and DST Global. The funding supports Waymo's rapid expansion across cities like Miami and reflects growing investor confidence in the autonomous vehicle market, despite operational challenges such as recent issues during a San Francisco blackout.Read more →
TechCrunch...SpaceX seeks federal approval to launch 1 million solar-powered satellite data centersSpaceX filed an FCC request to launch up to 1 million solar-powered satellites to serve as AI data centers, framing it as a step toward becoming a Kardashev II civilization. The 1 million figure is likely an opening negotiation position, as the FCC has previously deferred approval on similar large-scale Starlink expansion requests.Read more →
Gizmodo...HBO Still Loyal to ‘House of the Dragon’ Despite Creative StrifeHBO head Casey Bloys defended showrunner Ryan Condal against author George R.R. Martin's public criticism over creative changes in House of the Dragon, praising both as excellent collaborators while acknowledging that creative disagreements are natural. The fourth season of House of the Dragon will be the final season and serve as a natural conclusion to the Targaryen story.Read more →
Gizmodo...Trump’s Pick for Fed Chair Points to Growing Bitcoin-Dollar SynthesisKevin Warsh, President Trump's nominee to replace Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell, has a mixed history with cryptocurrency including past involvement with stablecoin startups and bitcoin investments. His appointment signals potential policy alignment with the Trump administration's stance on using stablecoins and bitcoin reserves to support U.S. monetary strategy, though his traditionally hawkish Fed policy views initially caused bitcoin's price to decline.Read more →
Engadget...NVIDIA is still planning to make a 'huge' investment in OpenAI, CEO saysNVIDIA CEO Jensen Huang confirmed the company will invest significantly in OpenAI's latest funding round, though less than the previously announced $100 billion infrastructure deal. Despite reports of rethinking their joint venture, Huang expressed strong confidence in OpenAI's work and strategic importance to NVIDIA.Read more →
Engadget...Ayaneo's Pocket S Mini has the perfect aspect ratio for revisiting classic console gamesAyaneo has launched the Pocket S Mini, a premium handheld gaming device featuring a true 4:3 aspect ratio display designed to eliminate black bars when emulating classic CRT-era games. The device combines high-end build quality with a 4.2-inch LCD screen, Snapdragon G3x Gen 2 processor, and advanced controls including Hall effect joysticks and triggers with RGB lighting.Read more →
The Verge...“No more Minnesota nice, Minneapolis will strike”Thousands of people gathered at Minneapolis City Hall on January 30 for a general strike organized by student groups in response to federal immigration officers killing Alex Pretti. The rally, marked by a jubilant yet undercurrent of outrage, reflected ongoing tensions over ICE enforcement actions and community safety concerns in the Twin Cities.Read more →
Gizmodo...Study: Used EVs Are The Cheapest Vehicles To OwnA new study shows that used electric vehicles three years old are significantly cheaper to own over a 10-year lifespan compared to new or used gasoline-powered cars, with total savings between $6,700 and $13,000. The research, which factors in purchase price, charging infrastructure, maintenance, and insurance, comes as a large inventory of off-lease EVs is expected to hit the used car market in 2026, creating favorable conditions for budget-conscious buyers.Read more →
Gizmodo...HBO Knows ‘It: Welcome to Derry’ Should Get a Season 2HBO is not canceling It: Welcome to Derry and would greenlight another season, though co-creators Andy and Barbara Muschietti are still developing the story concept since there's no source book to adapt. The show's mythology establishes Pennywise exists across time periods, potentially enabling a multi-season arc spanning from the 1930s to the 1900s.Read more →
Gizmodo...Don’t You Dare ‘Misinterpret’ Elon Musk’s Epstein Emails. Just the Facts Are Bad EnoughElon Musk claimed he pushed for Epstein files release and had minimal correspondence with Epstein, but newly released emails show Musk repeatedly attempted to visit Epstein's island between 2012-2013, asking about parties despite knowing Epstein was a convicted solicitor of prostitution. The discrepancy between Musk's public narrative of refusing invitations and the email evidence of him seeking to attend raises credibility concerns about his characterization of events.Read more →
The Verge...SpaceX wants to put 1 million solar-powered data centers into orbitSpaceX filed a request with the FCC on Friday seeking approval to put a constellation of 1 million data center satellites into orbit. While the FCC is unlikely to approve a network that expansive, SpaceX's strategy has been to request approval for unrealistically large numbers of satellites as a starting point for negotiations. The filing […]Read more →
Engadget...OnlyFans is reportedly in talks to sell a 60 percent stake to a San Francisco investment firmOnlyFans is in exclusive negotiations to sell a majority stake to San Francisco-based Architect Capital in a deal valuing the platform at $5.5 billion, comprising $3.5 billion in equity and $2 billion in debt. This proposed valuation represents a significant decrease from previous sale attempts and reflects ongoing efforts by the subscription-based content platform to secure investment.Read more →
CNET...Best Vitamins to Get Healthier Hair, Skin and Nails in 2026This article is a product review guide for hair, skin and nail vitamins, not a technology news article. It discusses various supplement options like Nature's Bounty and Olly, comparing ingredients, dosages, and certifications to help consumers choose the right multivitamin for beauty and health goals.Read more →
Engadget...SpaceX wants to launch a constellation of a million satellites to power AI needsSpaceX has filed an FCC application to deploy up to one million satellites in orbit to create a solar-powered orbital data center for AI computing. The system would operate in narrow orbital shells spanning up to 50 km each, positioning it as a cost-efficient solution to meet growing AI infrastructure demands.Read more →
TechCrunch...Nvidia CEO pushes back against report that his company’s $100B OpenAI investment has stalledNvidia CEO Jensen Huang dismissed reports of friction between Nvidia and OpenAI, calling claims about scaling back the company's $100 billion investment plan 'nonsense.' Huang reaffirmed Nvidia's commitment to investing in OpenAI's latest funding round, though declined to specify the investment amount, suggesting the partnership remains strategically important despite recent reports of renegotiated deal terms.Read more →
Gizmodo...The Original ‘Saw’ Team Is Leading the Franchise’s ReturnJames Wan and Leigh Whannell, creators of the original Saw, are reuniting to direct the next installment in the franchise following Wan's acquisition of the rights. The filmmakers aim to return to the original film's horror-focused spirit rather than the gore-heavy approach of recent sequels, though details about Jigsaw's involvement remain unclear.Read more →
CNET...La Liga Soccer: Stream Elche vs. Barcelona Live From AnywhereThis is a sports article about an upcoming La Liga soccer match between Elche and Barcelona scheduled for January 31 at 3 p.m. ET, not a technology or innovation news story.Read more →
CNET...HDMI ARC and eARC: Audio Return Channel ExplainedThis guide explains how to connect TVs to soundbars and receivers using HDMI Audio Return Channel (ARC) and the newer eARC standard, which simplifies setup by requiring only a single cable instead of multiple connections. The article covers setup options, troubleshooting common issues, and discusses limitations like 5.1 surround sound restrictions, while recommending direct connections to audio devices for optimal audio quality.Read more →
CNET...How to Perfectly Steam Your Vegetables in an Instant Pot, According to a ChefThis article provides a comprehensive guide to steaming vegetables in an Instant Pot, including step-by-step instructions, cooking times for various vegetables, and nutritional considerations. The Instant Pot's minimal water usage and fast cooking make it an effective method for retaining nutrients like vitamin C and antioxidants, though some heat-sensitive enzymes may degrade under pressure.Read more →
TechCrunch...HomeBoost’s app will show you where to save on your utility billsHomeBoost, founded by former SurveyMonkey president Selina Tobaccowala, offers affordable home energy assessments through a DIY kit with infrared camera and blacklight, charging $99 compared to traditional auditors' $400+ fees. The company partners with utilities to reduce costs for consumers and helps contractors source new business, creating alignment between energy savings, cost reduction, and climate impact.Read more →
The Verge...The AirPods 4 and Google’s 4K streamer are just two of this week’s best dealsA weekly deals roundup featuring discounted tech products including AirPods 4 with ANC at $119, Google TV Streamer 4K at $79.99, and a free month of Apple TV Plus for new and returning subscribers. Additional deals highlighted include Lego Roses, Anker MagGo chargers, Sonos Era 100 speakers, and The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom.Read more →
CNET...I Tested the New AirTag and Found That Apple More Than Doubled Its RangeApple released a second-generation AirTag with improved Bluetooth connectivity and an upgraded Ultra Wideband chip, making it discoverable from more than twice the distance of the original model and enabling Precision Finding on Apple Watch for the first time. The device maintains the same design as the first-generation AirTag, features a louder chime, and uses 85% recycled plastic, priced at $29 for a single unit or $99 for a four-pack.Read more →
Gizmodo...Hollywood Mourns the Surprise Death of Catherine O’HaraActors and directors remember Catherine O'Hara as one of the greats and gone too soon.Read more →
Gizmodo...Rokid AI Glasses Style Review: Surprisingly Tough Competition for Meta’s Ray-BanRokid's AI Glasses Style offer competitive smart glasses features including superior AI capabilities like offline translation and navigation, longer 12-hour battery life, and extended 10-minute video recording compared to Meta's Ray-Ban AI glasses. However, the device falls short on comfort and design refinement, with deceptive weight marketing and audio issues during calls that limit its appeal to comfort-conscious users.Read more →
Gizmodo...xAI Wants to Hire Award-Winning Writers to Train Elon Musk’s Stupid AI ChatbotxAI is hiring elite-level writers at $40-$125/hour to train its Grok AI chatbot, requiring credentials such as published novels with major houses, screenwriting credits on major studio films, or awards like Hugo or Emmy nominations. The move is controversial given Grok's history of generating white supremacist content, deepfake pornography, and other harmful outputs, and raises concerns about highly accomplished writers training their own replacements at relatively low compensation.Read more →
Engadget...Blue Origin is pausing its space tourist flights to work on lunar landers for NASABlue Origin is halting New Shepard tourist flights for at least two years to focus on developing human lunar landing systems for NASA's Artemis III and V missions. The company was tasked with designing an alternative lander for Artemis III after SpaceX faced delays, with the Trump administration targeting a crewed moon landing before the end of the presidential term.Read more →
CNET...When Is the WWE Royal Rumble 2026? Start Time, Where to Watch, Match Card and Confirmed EntrantsWWE's 39th Royal Rumble event is taking place for the first time outside North America in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, featuring 30-person battle royale matches where winners earn a championship match at WrestleMania 42. The event includes notable matchups such as AJ Styles versus Gunther, with Styles facing potential retirement if he loses, alongside confirmed competitors including Roman Reigns, Rhea Ripley, and Brock Lesnar.Read more →
Gizmodo...The Super Bowl Will Test New Device for Blind Fans Who Want to Enjoy the Big GameOneCourt, a Seattle-based startup founded in 2021, has developed a tactile feedback device that enables blind and low-vision sports fans to experience games in real-time by tracking ball position and signaling plays through vibrations and raised field maps. The NFL is partnering with OneCourt to provide approximately 10 blind and low-vision attendees at this year's Super Bowl access to the device, which has already been piloted at 15 regular season games and is currently available at eight NBA arenas.Read more →
The Verge...Cassette Boy forces you to see its world in a whole new wayCassette Boy is a retro-inspired top-down adventure game featuring a unique perspective-based mechanic where objects and enemies cease to exist when off-screen, requiring players to manipulate camera angles to solve puzzles. Despite occasional obtuseness in quest progression and puzzle design, the game delivers a satisfying, thoughtfully crafted experience that captures the spirit of classic Zelda and Pokémon games.Read more →
CNET...I Tested 6 Frozen Fries in the Air Fryer. The Winner Cost Just $3 a BagA taste test comparison of six frozen french fry brands cooked in an air fryer revealed that Amazon's grocery brand straight-cut fries ranked first, offering the best balance of seasoning, crispness, and flavor at the lowest price. The article provides air fryer cooking tips and ranks all six brands, noting that proper technique—such as not overcrowding the basket and shaking frequently—is essential for achieving optimal crunch and texture.Read more →
CNET...The Surprising Way Most Coffee Professionals Brew Their Morning PotsA panel of 10 coffee experts ranked seven popular brewing methods, with pour-over emerging as the top choice due to its superior control over extraction variables and ability to highlight nuanced flavors. The ranking revealed that manual brewing methods like AeroPress and French press also merit consideration, while K-Cups were unanimously deemed the least favorable for sacrificing flavor and generating waste.Read more →
CNET...Apple's New Lip-Reading Tech Is a Weird Signal of Where We're HeadingApple acquired Q.ai, an Israeli startup with expertise in optical facial recognition technology, for approximately $2 billion to enable silent command input through subtle facial movements and lip-reading capabilities. This acquisition signals Apple's strategic direction toward a connected ecosystem of AI-powered wearables including glasses, earbuds, and pins that could interact with users through natural, non-verbal interfaces.Read more →
Gizmodo...‘Florida Man’s Home’ Is the Most Florida Thing Imaginable, and It Might Be Coming to AirbnbA unique Tampa home known as 'Florida Man's Home' has gone on the market for $420,000, featuring eccentric décor including a pirate cave, hot rod room, and taxidermy collections. The property's unconventional design was created by the owner's late father, inspired by a Disney World trip to transform damage from a fallen tree into a pirate-themed hallway.Read more →
The Verge...ChatGPT isn’t the only chatbot pulling answers from Elon Musk’s GrokipediaMajor AI chatbots including ChatGPT, Google Gemini, and others are increasingly citing Grokipedia, Elon Musk's AI-generated encyclopedia, as a source despite serious concerns about misinformation and bias. Unlike Wikipedia's human-edited transparency, Grokipedia is produced by xAI's Grok chatbot and contains documented racist, transphobic, and misleading content, raising risks of spreading disinformation through AI-generated sourcing loops.Read more →
The Verge...A nice upgrade for Apple’s simplest gadgetThis is a curated tech newsletter featuring product recommendations, app reviews, and community picks including new Apple AirTags, AI search tools, streaming content, and hardware gadgets. The newsletter emphasizes independent tech products and local-first software principles while surveying trends in consumer electronics and digital services.Read more →
Engadget...How to turn on hypertension alerts on Apple WatchApple Watch's hypertension alerts detect long-term trends in blood pressure by analyzing heart rate, movement patterns, and other health data over 30 days, notifying users of potential elevated blood pressure without directly measuring it. The feature serves as an early warning system to prompt users to seek professional medical evaluation, available on Apple Watch Series 9 or later paired with iPhone 11 or later for users 22 and older without a prior hypertension diagnosis.Read more →
CNET...These Are the Best Fitness Trackers to Keep You Moving in 2026This CNET article provides a comprehensive guide to the best fitness trackers available, comparing devices like the Fitbit Charge 6, Apple Watch SE 3, Pixel Watch 4, and others across various categories including overall performance, budget, and specialized use cases. The article details key features, pricing, battery life, and recommendations for different user types, helping consumers select the right fitness tracker based on their specific needs and preferences.Read more →
CNET...W-2 and 1099: Understanding the Forms That Determine Your Tax RefundThis article explains the differences between W-2 and 1099 tax forms, covering how they report income for employees versus independent contractors. Key distinctions include tax withholding responsibilities, quarterly payment requirements for contractors, and how these forms affect tax refunds and refund advance loans.Read more →
CNET...Our Testing Revealed These Are the Best AI Video Generators of 2026CNET reviews the leading AI video generators including Sora, Adobe Firefly, Google Veo 3, Runway, and Midjourney, evaluating them on quality, features, ease of use, and commercial viability. The article highlights that while these tools offer powerful creative capabilities, users must consider legal and ethical risks including copyright concerns, deepfakes, and the importance of disclosing AI-generated content.Read more →
CNET...Have an Air Purifier? This Is the One Thing You’re Doing WrongFailing to regularly replace air purifier filters can significantly harm indoor air quality and health by allowing accumulated pollutants and mold spores to recirculate, potentially causing respiratory, cardiovascular, and allergy problems. Most experts recommend changing HEPA filters every 6-12 months, carbon filters every 3-6 months, and pre-filters every 1-3 months, with more frequent changes needed in high-pollution areas or homes with pets and allergens.Read more →
CNET...Premier League Soccer 2026: Stream Leeds vs. Arsenal Live From AnywhereThis article provides broadcast details and scheduling information for the Leeds vs. Arsenal Premier League match on January 31st. It covers viewing options across multiple regions including the US, Canada, and Australia, along with information about VPN usage for streaming.Read more →
Engadget...Highguard, a hyperpop arena shooter and other new indie games worth checking outThis article reviews the latest indie game releases and upcoming titles, featuring games like Highguard (a 3v3 hero shooter), Don't Stop, Girlypop! (a fast-paced arena shooter), and several other indie games across various genres. The article also covers the Nintendo Switch version of Dispatch, which implements stricter content censorship compared to other platforms, sparking industry discussion about content guidelines and platform-specific requirements.Read more →
CNET...Ready to Ditch TikTok? Check Out These 9 Apps for Short-Form Video AlternativesSkylight Social, an Australian decentralized short-form video platform launched in June 2025, has rapidly climbed to the No. 2 position on Apple's App Store amid growing demand. Unlike TikTok's algorithmic feed, Skylight uses human curation and is built on the AT Protocol, allowing users to maintain their content and followers across multiple decentralized platforms without being locked into a single service.Read more →
CNET...I Don't Like Turning on My Big Oven. This iQ MiniOven Is My Secret WeaponThe iQ MiniOven is a countertop smart oven that effectively combines multiple cooking appliances into one compact device, offering 11 cooking modes, Wi-Fi connectivity, and a genuinely useful companion app. Currently on sale at $499.99, it delivers practical value by reducing reliance on full-size ovens and other small appliances, making it particularly appealing for users in hot climates.Read more →
