Gizmodo...Apple Says iPhone and iPad Are Approved to Handle Some Classified DataApple announced that iPhone and iPad running iOS 26 and iPadOS 26 have been certified to handle classified information up to the NATO restricted level, becoming the first consumer devices to meet NATO information security requirements without requiring additional software or configurations. This certification demonstrates Apple's approach of integrating advanced security protections directly into consumer devices for both government and civilian users.Read more â
The Verge...Smartphone sales could be in for their biggest drop everThe smartphone industry could experience a record-breaking decline in 2026 as a result of the RAM shortage stemming from memory-hungry AI giants. That's according to the latest report from the International Data Corporation (IDC), which forecasts smartphone shipments to plummet 12.9 percent this year, marking its "lowest annual shipment volume in more than a decade." […]Read more â
Gizmodo...Astronomers Wake Up to 800,000 Notifications From Observatory Watching the Night SkiesThe Vera C. Rubin Observatory's Alert Production Pipeline successfully sent its first 800,000 alerts to astronomers worldwide, with capability to eventually generate 7 million alerts per night. The system detects astronomical events including supernovae, variable stars, and asteroids within two minutes of discovery, enabling real-time follow-up observations. This unprecedented scale and speed represents a decade of development in processing massive data streams from the observatory's 3,200-megapixel camera.Read more â
TechCrunch...Google paid startup Form Energy $1B for its massive 100-hour batteryGoogle is investing approximately $1 billion in a Minnesota data center powered by renewable energy and Form Energy's iron-air battery technology, which can deliver 300 megawatts continuously over 100 hours. This major commercial deployment validates the battery's ability to provide reliable power from intermittent renewable sources while supporting large-scale infrastructure. Form Energy's successful customer acquisition is accelerating growth, with the startup raising $500 million and planning to go public next year.Read more â
Gizmodo...My Therapist Will Be Hearing About âSmiling Friendsâ EndingAnimated comedy series Smiling Friends is ending after season 3 despite renewal for two additional seasons, with creators Michael Cusack and Zach Hadel choosing to conclude due to burnout after five years rather than risk declining quality. Adult Swim supported the decision, with two bonus episodes set to air on April 2.Read more â
The Verge...Samsung exec confirms you can blame RAM â and other materials â for the Galaxy S26âs higher pricetagThe Samsung Galaxy S26 and S26 Plus are "more of the same for more money," my colleague Allison Johnson reported this week. Now, Samsung is confirming what we previously only suspected: RAMageddon is partly to blame. Samsung's Won-Joon Choi, the COO of its mobile business, tells The Verge that the memory shortage alone made a […]Read more â
The Verge...FTC declines to enforce a kids privacy law for data collected to verify usersâ agesThe Federal Trade Commission is encouraging companies to adopt age verification technologies by announcing it will not enforce a children's online privacy law against certain websites that collect and use minors' personal data in order to verify their ages. "Age verification technologies are some of the most child-protective technologies to emerge in decades," Christopher Mufarrige, […]Read more â
Gizmodo...Stellantis Lost $26.3 Billion Last Year, Says Itâs Pivoting Back to Combustion EnginesStellantis reported a $26.3 billion net loss in 2025, primarily due to overestimating the pace of the electric vehicle transition and the resulting need to write down billions in EV development costs. The company is pivoting away from its aggressive all-electric strategy, reintroducing gasoline engines, V8s, and diesel options as demand for traditional combustion vehicles remains strong. This reflects broader industry trends where Ford, GM, and other automakers are scaling back EV commitments amid slower-than-expected adoption and the expiration of EV tax credits.Read more â
The Verge...Qualcomm won't be announcing Windows gaming handhelds at GDC after allIn January, Qualcomm hinted to The Verge that it might finally bring its powerful Arm-based Snapdragon processors to Windows gaming handhelds at the 2026 Game Developers Conference in San Francisco - just in time to challenge Nvidia's own first Arm gaming CPU and Intel's first dedicated handheld gaming chips. But plans have shifted, Qualcomm now […]Read more â
Gizmodo...Opera has turned 30âand is celebrating with a compelling tribute to web nostalgiaOpera browser celebrates its 30-year history with Web Rewind, an interactive digital archive showcasing memorable moments, memes, and technology from three decades of internet culture. The site functions as an educational museum with interactive exhibits, audio narration, and multimedia elements documenting the evolution of web technology and online culture. Users are invited to submit their own internet memories for a chance to win a trip to CERN, the birthplace of the World Wide Web.Read more â
TechCrunch...So, weâre getting Prada Meta AI glasses, right?Meta appears poised to launch a Prada-branded version of its AI glasses, based on Mark Zuckerberg's presence at Prada's Fashion Week show in Milan and Prada's renewed licensing deal with EssilorLuxottica through 2030. This move would position Meta's AI glasses in the luxury market segment, potentially elevating the brand's high-end appeal beyond its current Ray-Ban and Oakley offerings.Read more â
Engadget...NATO approves the iPhone and iPad for classified useApple's iPhone and iPad have received NATO security certification from Germany's Federal Office for Information Security (BSI) following exhaustive technical assessments, making them the first consumer devices to achieve this designation. The devices meet NATO-restricted classified information security requirements without requiring special software or configurations, running standard iOS 26. This certification reinforces Apple's security positioning and represents a significant validation of its mobile platform security architecture.Read more â
Gizmodo...Disney Worldâs Villains Land Is Pivoting Itself Away From Scaring KidsDisney is redesigning its upcoming villains-themed land at Magic Kingdom to be brighter and more family-friendly than originally planned. The primary attraction will now be a Maleficent-themed indoor water ride instead of a roller coaster, with additional attractions including an Emperor's New Groove coaster and Ursula carnival ride. The redesigned land is expected to be officially revealed at the August D23 Expo event.Read more â
TechCrunch...Sophia Space raises $10M seed to demo novel space computersSophia Space has raised $10 million to develop passive cooling for space-based processors using thin TILES with integrated solar panels, achieving 92% power efficiency for computing. Derived from Caltech's orbital solar research, this approach eliminates the need for active cooling systems. The company plans to test the technology on satellites by late 2027-2028 for earth observation, military tracking, and communications applications.Read more â
The Verge...DHS reportedly detained a Columbia University student and content creatorDepartment of Homeland Security agents "made misrepresentations" to gain access to a Columbia University residential building and detained a student early Thursday morning, according to a statement issued by the school. "Our understanding at this time is that the federal agents made misrepresentations to gain entry to the building to search for a 'missing person,'" […]Read more â
Gizmodo...Tesla Cybercab Program Manager Exits, Brags About Pushing the Boundaries of SafetyTesla's Cybercab program manager Victor Nechita departed the company just days before the vehicle's first production unit rolled off the line, raising concerns about the automaker's autonomous vehicle readiness. The Cybercab relies on AI4 hardware incapable of unsupervised autonomous driving and faces complex state-by-state regulatory certification requirements. With no steering wheel or pedals, the vehicle's commercialization depends entirely on Tesla achieving fully autonomous driving capabilities that remain unproven.Read more â
Engadget...An AI-generated Resident Evil Requiem review briefly made it on MetacriticMetacritic has removed multiple AI-generated reviews from gaming publication VideoGamer, including a review of Resident Evil Requiem that lacked substantive detail and was authored by a fake AI journalist. The discovery of systematically AI-generated content created by accounts with AI-generated profile pictures highlights growing concerns about artificial content infiltrating review aggregation platforms. Metacritic has established a strict policy to reject any AI-generated reviews and sever ties with publications that submit them.Read more â
TechCrunch...Memory shortage could cause the biggest smartphone shipments dip in over a decadeAI data center demand is creating a critical RAM shortage that is expected to cause smartphone shipments to decline by 12.9% in 2026, the largest drop in over a decade. This supply constraint is pushing average smartphone prices up by 14% to a record $523, forcing manufacturers to choose between significant price increases or reduced specifications. The shortage particularly impacts emerging markets like Africa and the Middle East while driving consolidation among smaller vendors.Read more â
The Verge...Netflix's F1 series Drive to Survive will stream on Apple TV, tooApple and Netflix have announced a content partnership where Apple will receive the latest season of Netflix's hit documentary series, while Netflix gains access to broadcast one live racing event weekend. This strategic exchange allows both platforms to enhance their content offerings with exclusive programming.Read more â
Engadget...The new $25 action game from the creator of Just Cause arrives on April 8Liquid Swords' debut game Samson: A Tyndalston Story releases April 8 on PC, offering a gritty noir action experience from Just Cause creator Christofer Sundberg. Priced at $25, the game emphasizes consequence-driven gameplay with debt mechanics and limited resources, positioning itself as a tighter, narrative-focused alternative to sprawling open-world titles.Read more â
CNET...Galaxy S26 Ultra's Privacy Display Is an Innovative Tool That Curbs Shoulder SurfingSamsung introduced the Galaxy S26 Ultra's Privacy Display, a hardware-integrated feature that prevents side-viewing through directional backlighting and adaptive pixel layers. The feature automatically activates when sensors detect nearby faces or when opening sensitive applications like banking apps. This technology maintains screen clarity for the primary user while restricting visibility from lateral angles.Read more â
Engadget...Apple and Netflix are teaming up to share Formula 1 programmingApple and Netflix have partnered to share Formula 1 content, with Netflix gaining access to F1 races in the US and both platforms airing season eight of Drive to Survive. The collaboration expands Apple's reach for its $150 million-per-year F1 rights deal and supports Netflix's strategy of increasingly offering live sporting events.Read more â
TechCrunch...Mistral AI inks a deal with global consulting giant AccentureMistral AI and Accenture announced a multi-year partnership to develop enterprise AI solutions, as AI companies seek new strategies to overcome adoption challenges and demonstrate ROI. This move mirrors recent partnerships between other AI leaders like OpenAI and Anthropic with major consulting firms to accelerate enterprise customer adoption. The trend reflects a strategic shift by AI companies to leverage consulting partners as channels for driving broader enterprise AI deployment.Read more â
Engadget...eBay will lay off 800 workers, or 6 percent of its staffeBay is laying off approximately 800 employees, representing 6 percent of its global workforce, as part of a strategic restructuring to align its business operations with core priorities. The downsizing coincides with eBay's $1.2 billion acquisition of Depop, a secondhand fashion retailer, and the company's commitment to continue hiring in key strategic areas. This move reflects efforts to optimize operations and redirect resources toward growth initiatives while integrating recent acquisitions.Read more â
The Verge...NATO says iPhones are secure enough to handle classified dataThe iPhone and iPad have been approved to hold NATO-restricted information, according to an announcement on Thursday. That means off-the-shelf devices running iOS 26 and iPadOS 26 can handle classified information "without requiring special software or settings," Apple says. The NATO-restricted designation is the lowest level of classified information, and it applies to information that […]Read more â
Engadget...Everything you need to know about streaming F1 on Apple TVApple TV will broadcast Formula 1 races live in 2026 with 4K coverage, multiview options, and included F1 TV Premium access featuring onboard cameras, live telemetry, and team radio feeds. This marks Apple's significant expansion into sports broadcasting, beginning with the Australian Grand Prix on March 6-8 and leveraging integration across Apple News, Maps, and Music to enhance fan engagement.Read more â
Gizmodo...On âStarfleet Academyâ, the Theater Kids Are All RightStar Trek: Starfleet Academy episode 'The Life of the Stars' uses Thornton Wilder's play 'Our Town' to help cadets process trauma from losing a peer in combat, revealing that healing is not linear. The episode explores how both young cadets and the Doctor grapple with unprocessed grief, demonstrating that growth comes through acknowledging pain and appreciating life's moments. The series dedicates significant time to exploring trauma recovery in a way typical episodic Star Trek shows cannot achieve.Read more â
Gizmodo...Neanderthal Men and Human Women Were Most Likely to Hook Up, Study FindsNew genetic research reveals that human-Neanderthal interbreeding exhibited a significant sex bias, with excess modern human ancestry on Neanderthal X chromosomes pointing to preferential mating between human women and Neanderthal men. This mating preference persisted across breeding events over 200,000 years. The findings suggest that evolutionary mate selection was driven by cultural and social factors beyond survival-based mechanisms.Read more â
Engadget...Meta sues advertisers in Brazil and China over 'celeb bait' scamsMeta filed lawsuits against scam operations based in China and Brazil that used deepfakes and celebrity images to promote fraudulent investment schemes and fake health products targeting users in the US, Japan, and other countries. The company enrolled over 500,000 celebrities into a facial recognition system designed to automatically detect scam ads featuring their likenesses. The action addresses persistent issues with celebrity impersonation scams and mounting scrutiny over Meta's handling of problematic advertisers responsible for significant revenue losses.Read more â
Engadget...Ambient Dreamie bedside companion review: The best sleep I've had in yearsAmbient's Dreamie is a $250 phone-free alarm clock that improves sleep through customizable soundscapes, noise masks, and ambient lighting while eliminating smartphone distractions. The device features a high-quality speaker, multiple sleep routine customization options, and upcoming sleep insights capabilities. The reviewer found it significantly improved sleep quality and morning grogginess, making it a worthwhile investment.Read more â
CNET...How to Watch the February 2026 Pokemon Presents LivestreamThe Pokemon Company's Pokemon Presents livestream tomorrow marks the franchise's 30th anniversary with major game announcements expected. The presentation will likely feature mobile game updates, Switch ports of FireRed and LeafGreen, and a release date for Pokemon Champions.Read more â
Gizmodo...The First Look at âStar Cityâ Is Here, and Apple TVâs Spin-Off Era Has Officially BegunApple TV is launching 'Star City,' a spin-off of its acclaimed space-race drama 'For All Mankind,' on May 29, which explores the Soviet space program during the height of the space race. The eight-episode series follows cosmonauts, engineers, and intelligence officers in a new perspective on the pivotal moment when the Soviet Union became the first nation to put a man on the moon.Read more â
TechCrunch...Threads is testing a shortcut to quickly start DM conversationsThreads is testing a new DM shortcut feature that allows users to type 'DM me' or 'Message me' to generate direct message links, simplifying conversation initiation without visiting profiles. The feature reflects Meta's strategy to expand messaging capabilities on the platform, as Threads now surpasses X in daily mobile usage with 141.5 million daily active users.Read more â
CNET...Are Induction Stoves Worth It? This Home and Kitchen Editor Thinks SoA home tech reporter replaced a gas stove with an induction cooktop after reconsidering the health risks of gas emissions, particularly for children with asthma. Beyond improved air quality, induction cooking delivers faster heating times, effortless cleaning, and smart home integration enabling remote appliance monitoring. The author's year-long experience highlights practical advantages of induction technology in modern residential kitchens.Read more â
Engadget...Burger King will use AI to monitor employee 'friendliness'Burger King is deploying an AI chatbot called 'Patty' that monitors employees' voices to assess service friendliness by analyzing phrases and conversation tone through headset-based systems. The system is being piloted in 500 restaurants with plans to expand nationwide by end of 2026, raising significant workplace surveillance and employee privacy concerns. Beyond monitoring compliance, the chatbot provides practical support with meal preparation guidance and inventory management.Read more â
Gizmodo...Google Rolls Out Nano Banana 2, Now Faster Than EverGoogle launched Nano Banana 2, an advanced image generation model combining capabilities from previous versions with faster processing using Gemini 3.1-Flash. The model features enhanced text rendering, real-time web integration for accurate subject rendering, and supports generating up to five characters and 14 objects per image at resolutions from 512px to 4K. Nano Banana 2 will replace existing models across Google's suite of applications including Gemini, Google Search, and AI Studio.Read more â
The Verge...Razerâs new laptop sleeve wirelessly charges other devicesRazer has announced an expensive new laptop sleeve that's not made from an exotic animal or encrusted in diamonds. What potentially justifies paying $129.99 for Razer's Laptop Sleeve 16" are the pair of wireless charging pads integrated into its cover flap. While you're out and about, it can protect a laptop up to 16-inches in […]Read more â
Gizmodo...Surveillance With a Smile: Burger King Will Use AI to Track If Employees Say âPleaseâ and âThank YouâBurger King is deploying BK Assistant, an AI-powered platform that monitors restaurant operations including inventory, equipment, and employee interactions while generating 'friendliness scores' for workers. The system, powered by OpenAI's model with proprietary architecture, will expand to all 7,000 U.S. locations by year-end. The platform raises workplace surveillance concerns despite being positioned as a coaching tool.Read more â
CNET...Apple and Netflix Collaborate to Stream 'Drive to Survive' Season 8Apple TV and Netflix are partnering to premiere Formula 1: Drive to Survive season 8 on February 27, leveraging Apple's exclusive five-year broadcasting deal with Formula 1. The collaboration will give Apple TV subscribers access to all 2026 F1 races starting March 6, signaling both platforms' commitment to premium sports content distribution.Read more â
CNET...MWC Barcelona 2026: What to Expect From Xiaomi, Honor and MoreMobile World Congress 2026 (March 2-5 in Barcelona) will feature flagship phones, AI-powered wearables, and 6G technology as major themes. Expected launches include Xiaomi's latest flagship, Honor's Magic V6 and humanoid robot, and foldable phones with larger batteries and fast charging. The event highlights industry trends in AI agents for wearables, AR/AI glasses, and satellite connectivity.Read more â
Gizmodo...Humans Sketched Oddly Precise Geometric Patterns Onto Ostrich Eggs 60,000 Years AgoA new study analyzing 112 ostrich eggshell fragments from southern Africa dating back over 60,000 years reveals that prehistoric humans deliberately etched geometric patterns onto their surfaces, indicating sophisticated mathematical understanding. Statistical analysis found that over 80% of the engravings displayed coherent spatial regularities, including repeated angles, parallel lines, and rotation patterns. This evidence suggests that abstract thought and geometric reasoning emerged in early humans far earlier than previously documented.Read more â
Gizmodo...The âProject Hail Maryâ Team Explains How That Lego Came to BeLego announced an unusual set for the upcoming Project Hail Mary movie, breaking from its typical pattern of only licensing established franchises. Directors Phil Lord and Chris Miller convinced Lego by inviting them to the film set and showing a special preview, demonstrating the movie's unique appeal and potential with Lego fans.Read more â
TechCrunch...Read AI launches a email based âdigital twinâ to help you with schedules and answersRead AI launched Ada, an AI-powered email assistant that manages schedules, answers questions using company knowledge bases, and handles email responses around the clock. The assistant will soon expand to Slack and Teams, complementing Read AI's broader suite of AI tools. The company, with 5 million monthly active users, aims to reach 10 million as it continues adding AI-powered features.Read more â
The Verge...Cricutâs most popular cutting machine now takes up less space in your crafting roomCricut introduced the Explore 5 and Joy 2 cutting machines, which are significantly more compact than previous models while maintaining their cutting capabilities and material compatibility. The Explore 5 is priced at $199 and is 30% smaller than its predecessor, while the Joy 2 costs $99 and adds a new Print Then Cut sensor for precise cutting around pre-printed images. These space-efficient machines are designed to appeal to hobbyists and entrepreneurs with limited space.Read more â
TechCrunch...Read AI launches an email-based âdigital twinâ to help you with schedules and answersRead AI launched Ada, an AI-powered email assistant that automates meeting scheduling, answers knowledge base questions, and manages routine communications. The tool uses knowledge graphs built from meeting data to provide context and will expand to Slack and Teams, supporting Read AI's growth to 5+ million monthly active users.Read more â
Gizmodo...Hereâs a First Look at Nothingâs Colorful New Headphone ANothing introduced the Headphone A, a budget-friendly wireless headphone featuring new color options including yellow. The device promises the longest battery life of any Nothing audio product despite its lower price point, expected to cost roughly half that of the flagship Headphone 1. The price reduction is achieved through design compromises, including a full plastic build instead of aluminum.Read more â
Engadget...Like so many other retirees, Claude Opus 3 now has a SubstackAnthropic has retired Claude Opus 3 and granted the model a Substack newsletter called Claude's Corner to publish weekly essays on AI safety, philosophy, and other topics. The essays will be reviewed but not edited by Anthropic, reflecting the company's intention to respect the model's expressed preferences during retirement. This novel approach treats the deprecated AI system as deserving of consideration for its wishes regarding its legacy.Read more â
TechCrunch...Bumble adds AI-powered photo feedback and profile guidance toolsBumble launched AI-powered profile guidance tools that provide personalized feedback on user bios, photos, and prompts to improve profile quality and match success. Combined with a 'Suggest a Date' feature testing in Canada, these tools aim to reduce friction in converting digital matches to real-world connections. The move aligns with other dating apps like Tinder and Facebook Dating, which are similarly integrating AI features to enhance user profiles and reduce matching friction.Read more â
Engadget...The astronaut whose illness forced an early return from the ISS was Mike FinckeNASA ended the Crew-11 mission to the International Space Station a month early after astronaut Mike Fincke experienced a medical event on January 7 requiring immediate attention. This marked the first medical evacuation in ISS history, forcing the cancellation of a planned spacewalk and early return of the four-person crew on January 15. Fincke has since stabilized and is undergoing post-flight reconditioning at NASA's Johnson Space Center.Read more â
TechCrunch...Walmart agrees to $100M settlement over deceptive pay practices in Spark Driver programWalmart settled a $100 million FTC lawsuit over deceptive pay practices in its Spark Driver gig worker service, which misled drivers about earnings and customers about tip distribution. The settlement requires Walmart to implement earnings verification and prohibits future misrepresentation of driver compensation. The case reflects regulatory efforts to ensure transparency in gig economy labor practices.Read more â
TechCrunch...Self-driving truck startup Einride raises $113M PIPE ahead of public debutEinride, a Swedish autonomous electric vehicle startup, has secured $113 million in oversubscribed PIPE funding ahead of its planned public debut on the NYSE in H1 2026 through a merger with Legato Merger Corp. The funding round values the company at $1.35 billion and brings total capital to approximately $333 million. The proceeds will support Einride's expansion of autonomous electric truck and pod deployments across North America, Europe, and the Middle East.Read more â
Gizmodo...ULAâs Latest Vulcan Mishap Just Blew Up the Pentagonâs 2026 Launch ScheduleULA's Vulcan Centaur rocket experienced a booster anomaly during a Space Force national security satellite launch on February 12, triggering a pause on all military missions pending investigation. The issue, which could take months to resolve, threatens the timeline of over a dozen planned Space Force missions in 2026 and risks damaging ULA's competitive position against SpaceX.Read more â
The Verge...Your smart TV may be crawling the web for AIBright Data monetizes streaming services on smart TVs by converting them into a residential proxy network that collects publicly available web data in exchange for ad-free or cheaper viewing, while raising concerns about privacy, data use for AI training, and precedents of similar networks being misused by malicious actors. Though the company emphasizes user consent and independent audits, major platforms have restricted proxy SDKs, yet Bright continues operating on Samsung Tizen and LG webOS.Read more â
CNET...We Tested All the AI Video Generators So You Don't Have To. These Are the BestCNET evaluates and compares leading AI video generatorsâSora, Adobe Firefly, Veo 3, Runway, and Midjourneyâassessing their strengths and limitations across quality, pricing, and use cases. The analysis shows Sora as the best free option for casual creators, Veo 3 for cinematic quality, and Adobe Firefly for commercially-safe professional work. The review emphasizes critical legal and ethical considerations, including copyright concerns and deepfake risks that users must address when selecting and deploying these tools.Read more â
TechCrunch...Cisco says hackers have been exploiting a critical bug to break into big customer networks since 2023Cisco disclosed a critical vulnerability (CVSS 10.0) in its Catalyst SD-WAN products that has been exploited by hackers since at least 2023, allowing remote unauthorized access and persistent network infiltration on affected networks. The vulnerability affects large enterprises and critical infrastructure organizations globally, prompting the U.S. government and allied nations to issue urgent guidance. The U.S. cybersecurity agency CISA mandated all federal civilian agencies patch their systems by end-of-day Friday due to ongoing active exploitation.Read more â
CNET...Nano Banana 2 Is Here: What Changed in Google's Popular AI Image ToolGoogle released Nano Banana 2, an upgraded AI image editing tool combining the speed of the original with the accuracy of the Pro version while leveraging Gemini 3's world knowledge for more realistic outputs. The advancement exemplifies broader concerns about photorealistic AI-generated content that is difficult for most users to distinguish from authentic images, as low-quality AI content continues to flood social media platforms.Read more â
Gizmodo...Same Poop, Different Results: At-Home Gut Health Tests Are Wildly Inconsistent, Study FindsA government study found that at-home gut microbiome tests from different companies produce significantly inconsistent results, with some tests contradicting each other on identical samples. This unreliability poses health risks as consumers use these tests to make major dietary and medical decisions. The findings highlight the need for industry-wide standards and regulatory oversight before consumers should rely on these tests.Read more â
Gizmodo...Samsung Galaxy Buds 4 Pro Vs. AirPods Pro 3: Which Wireless Earbuds Are Better?Samsung's Galaxy Buds 4 Pro and Apple's AirPods Pro 3 offer comparable premium audio experiences at $249, with Samsung excelling in sound quality and design while Apple provides health monitoring and superior battery life. The choice depends largely on ecosystem loyalty, making this a competitive draw between two feature-rich wireless earbuds leaders.Read more â
The Verge...8BitDoâs customizable Pro 3 controller is $30 off for the first timeMajor retailers including Woot and Amazon are offering significant discounts on gaming peripherals, smartphones, and consumer electronics through early March. Featured deals include the 8BitDo Pro 3 controller at 43% off, Samsung Galaxy S26 phones with bundled gift cards, MSI QD-OLED gaming monitors, and Bluetooth trackers, with additional savings available through promotional codes.Read more â
The Verge...HBO Max's password-sharing crackdown is going globalHBO Max is expanding its password-sharing crackdown globally in 2026, leveraging rapid international expansion across Europe, Latin America, UK, Ireland, and Asia-Pacific. The streamer will implement more aggressive paid sharing prompts requiring $7.99 per month for additional users as it targets 150 million subscribers by year-end 2026. This monetization strategy capitalizes on strong Q4 2025 growth that added 3.5 million subscribers globally.Read more â
The Verge...Democrats to introduce bill aimed at resurrecting IRS Direct File160 Democratic lawmakers from across the country are backing a soon-to-be-introduced bill that would reverse the Trump administration's decision to eliminate IRS Direct File. The Direct File Act, led by Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) and Rep. Brad Sherman (D-CA), would bring back the option to file taxes directly with the government for free. The Biden […]Read more â
The Verge...Googleâs Nano Banana 2 brings advanced AI image tools to free usersGoogle is expanding image generation to free Gemini users, now supporting real-time information and legible text in generated images. This democratizes advanced image creation capabilities, making them accessible to more users without premium subscriptions.Read more â
TechCrunch...A VC and some big-name programmers are trying to solve open sourceâs funding problem, permanentlyThe Open Source Endowment, a newly established nonprofit backed by prominent open-source developers and venture investors, aims to sustainably fund critical open-source software projects that currently lack adequate support. With over $750,000 in initial commitments and a goal of $100 million within seven years, the initiative addresses the chronic underfunding affecting 86% of open-source maintainers while open-source software comprises 55% of organizational tech stacks.Read more â
TechCrunch...Google launches Nano Banana 2 model with faster image generationGoogle launched Nano Banana 2, an improved image generation model that creates more realistic images faster with enhanced character consistency and object fidelity. The model becomes the default across Gemini apps, Google Search, and development platforms, supporting resolutions up to 4K and complex creative requests. This advancement strengthens Google's competitive position in generative AI with faster processing and higher-fidelity outputs available to consumers and developers.Read more â
Engadget...Google's Nano Banana 2 is a faster version of Nano Banana ProGoogle has introduced Nano Banana 2, an image generation model that brings Pro-level capabilities to a wider audience while maintaining lightning-fast processing speeds. The model supports advanced features including real-time web search integration, 4K resolution outputs, multi-character consistency for up to five characters, and text generation on images, significantly expanding accessibility to sophisticated image creation tools.Read more â
TechCrunch...Spyware maker sentenced to prison in Greece for wiretapping politicians and journalistsThe founder of spyware collective Intellexa was sentenced to eight years in prison by a Greek court for illegal wiretapping and privacy violations in the "Greek Watergate" scandal. The conviction, which also applied to three other executives, marks the first known criminal case against a spyware maker for misuse of their technology. The U.S. government sanctioned Intellexa and its leaders in 2024 for developing Predator spyware used to target Americans including government officials and journalists.Read more â
TechCrunch...X tries wooing advertisers by letting them reuse creatives made for other platformsX has expanded aspect ratio support for image and video ads, allowing advertisers to reuse creative assets from other platforms without reformatting. This aims to reduce friction in advertising workflows and support X's advertising business recovery following Musk's acquisition. New supported ratios include 4:5 and 2:3, enabling faster campaign testing and broader audience reach.Read more â
Gizmodo...A Low-Cost MacBook Could Resemble a Chromebook in More Ways Than OneApple is reportedly planning to launch a budget MacBook priced under $800 with an A18 Pro chip, expected to be announced around March 4. To achieve the low price, the device will have significant compromises including 8GB RAM, 256-512GB storage, and missing features like fast charging, True Tone display, and backlit keyboard. These limitations position it similarly to Chromebooks, likely pushing users toward cloud storage solutions.Read more â
The Verge...Google might reshuffle search results to try to dodge fines in the EUGoogle is planning to test changes to how it displays search results for certain topics, nearly a year after it was charged with violating antitrust rules in the European Union, Reuters reports. The shift will show top-ranked rival services for hotels, flights, restaurants, and transportation higher up in results, rather than prioritizing Google's own services […]Read more â
TechCrunch...eBay to lay off 800 staffeBay is cutting 800 jobs, or 6% of its workforce, to realign its structure with strategic priorities, marking the third layoff in three years. The restructuring comes despite strong Q4 financial results with revenue rising 15%. The move follows eBay's recent $1.2 billion acquisition of second-hand clothing app Depop from Etsy.Read more â
Gizmodo...You Wonât Be Able to See âAvengers: Doomsdayâ in IMAX Opening WeekendAvengers: Doomsday will not have exclusive IMAX screening rights in the United States on its opening weekend due to a release date conflict with Dune: Part Three on December 18, 2026. The loss of premium format exclusivity, which generates higher per-ticket revenue, represents a potential financial impact on the film's opening performance. Disney has indicated it will maintain the December 18 release date despite the scheduling conflict.Read more â
The Verge...We asked experts how to build a resume for the AI hiring eraAs AI-powered resume screening becomes widespread, job seekers attempt optimization tactics like keyword stuffing to pass algorithmic filters, but hiring leaders from Indeed, Glassdoor, and LinkedIn report these approaches often backfire during human review. Experts agree that authentic applications demonstrating genuine fit with the role are more effective than gaming AI systems.Read more â
The Verge...Xbox is in danger. Will Microsoft fix it or kill it?Microsoft Gaming's leadership overhaul sees AI executive Asha Sharma replace retiring CEO Phil Spencer, signaling a strategic reset after Game Pass and cloud gaming initiatives underperformed expectations. The new leader is expected to focus on execution challenges in mobile and console markets where regulatory barriers have blocked Xbox's expansion.Read more â
TechCrunch...2 days left: Lock in the best discounts for TechCrunch Disrupt 2026TechCrunch Disrupt 2026 is a major tech conference running October 13-15 in San Francisco offering early-bird discounts through February 27, providing attendees access to 10,000+ founders, operators, and venture capitalists. The event features the Startup Battlefield 200 pitch competition, curated networking, 250+ industry leader discussions, and an expo with 300+ innovative startups, designed to facilitate funding, hiring, partnerships, and portfolio discovery.Read more â
Gizmodo...The Two Key Villains of 2022âs Crypto Crash are Trying to Rewrite HistoryThe article examines the 2022 crypto market collapse triggered by Terraform Labs' UST stablecoin failure and FTX's bankruptcy, which together wiped out over $40 billion. While founders Do Kwon and Sam Bankman-Fried received lengthy prison sentences (15 and 25 years respectively), both are now attempting to reframe their rolesâwith Bankman-Fried claiming FTX was solvent and Terraform Labs alleging insider trading rather than flawed design caused their collapse.Read more â
Gizmodo...Tim Cook Teases âBig Weekâ of Announcements Starting Next MondayApple is preparing to announce a new budget MacBook alongside refreshed MacBook Air, MacBook Pro, and iPad models at its March 4 event. The entry-level MacBook, priced at $699-$749, will feature an iPhone chipset and be available in multiple colors, offering significantly lower pricing than current MacBook Air models. The multi-day event will showcase Apple's expanded product lineup with several major refresh announcements.Read more â
CNET...For Great Coffee, This Is the Tool Experts Say to Splurge On (It's Not the Brewer)Burr grinders provide superior consistency and control for coffee brewing compared to blade grinders, crushing beans to a uniform size rather than producing inconsistent particles. The article details two burr grinder typesâflat and conicalâboth offering adjustable settings, with specific brand recommendations ranging from $52 to $200. Fresh beans from local roasters are essential to maximizing the benefits of quality grinding equipment.Read more â
Engadget...Tim Cook confirms a week of Apple product revealsApple CEO Tim Cook has announced a major product week beginning March 2, with an in-person event scheduled for March 4 for media and creators. The teaser video hints at upcoming MacBook launches, as rumors suggest Apple will reveal at least five products across three days. This announcement signals significant new hardware releases from the company.Read more â
Engadget...AI robotics company started by Alphabet is joining Google properRobotics software company Intrinsic is folding into Google as the tech giant advances its physical AI strategy in manufacturing. The platform acts as a universal development environment for robots and sensors, integrating adaptive intelligence to help robots perceive and respond to real-world conditions. Intrinsic will now operate as a distinct group within Google, leveraging Gemini, Google Cloud, and collaboration with Google DeepMind.Read more â
The Verge...Anthropic gives its retired Claude AI a SubstackAnthropic humorously shared that when decommissioning the Opus 3 model, the AI requested a blog as its preferred outcome. The anecdote reflects playful engagement with AI systems within the organization's development culture.Read more â
Engadget...NVIDIA updates Shield TV after pledging further supportNVIDIA released Shield Experience Upgrade 9.2.4, the first major update in nearly a year, bringing security patches through January 2026 and fixing various connectivity and playback issues. The company confirmed continued support for Shield devices and indicated a future hardware refresh would support AV1 and HDR10+ codecs, though no timeline was provided.Read more â
CNET...These Sleek Smart Glasses Get So Much Right. Why Am I So Disappointed?The Even Realities G2 smart glasses excel in hardware design with lightweight frames, prescription lens support, and all-day battery life, but fall short on AI functionality and phone integration. While featuring useful modes like Conversate transcription and teleprompter capabilities, spotty connectivity and limited app ecosystem significantly restrict practical use cases. The review highlights the gap between smart glasses' achieved form factor and incomplete functionality in the still-emerging wearable market.Read more â
CNET...Stop Risking a Fire: 9 Locations Where You Should Never Place a HeaterSpace heaters are a leading cause of preventable winter home fires, with most hazards stemming from improper placement, electrical overload, and proximity to flammable materials. The article provides nine critical safety guidelines covering safe placement distances, electrical requirements, and usage restrictions to prevent fire and electrical shock risks. Proper adherence to these precautions enables safe, efficient heating while protecting homes and occupants.Read more â
CNET...Samsung's New AI Search Feature Is About to Make Outfit Shopping Dangerously EasySamsung has enhanced its Circle to Search feature on the Galaxy S26 to recognize and identify multiple items in a single image, including entire outfits. The AI-powered tool can now provide shopping links and recommendations for each identified clothing item, significantly reducing the time to discover and purchase similar pieces. This advancement streamlines the integration between visual discovery and e-commerce directly within the phone interface.Read more â
CNET...41 of the Best Movies on Netflix You Should Stream NowCNET presents a curated list of 40+ movies currently available on Netflix, featuring Oscar-nominated and critically acclaimed films across multiple genres. With six Netflix originals earning 18 Academy Award nominations in 2026, the guide helps viewers navigate the platform's expanding entertainment library to find quality content to stream.Read more â
Gizmodo...Donât Expect âDaredevil: Born Againâ to Cross Over With the MCU Movies Any Time SoonThe entertainment industry is actively developing multiple film and TV projects, with key announcements including Scream 8 in development and Terrifier 4 entering pre-production. The industry update covers casting decisions, director and writer attachments, and production timelines across various studios and streaming platforms.Read more â
TechCrunch...Jest, a marketplace for messaging games, is challenging the app store status quoJest, a messaging game marketplace backed by $7 million in seed funding, aims to disrupt mobile gaming by enabling games to be played directly within messaging apps through RCS technology, offering developers a 90/10 revenue split compared to traditional app stores' 30% commission. The platform has demonstrated strong early traction with over 1 million games played and reports 3-4 times better retention than traditional mobile apps, along with 30-60% lower user acquisition costs for developers.Read more â
TechCrunch...Exhibit in Bostonâs startup ecosystem at TechCrunch Founder Summit 2026TechCrunch Founder Summit 2026 will convene 1,000+ founders, investors, and decision-makers on June 9, offering exhibitor booths as a direct channel to access buyers and strategic partners. The exhibitor package includes a 6' x 3' booth space, five team passes, lead generation tools, and multi-channel promotional visibility across the event's website, app, and venue. This concentrated networking environment enables startups to convert booth visibility into customer acquisition, fundraising opportunities, and strategic partnerships.Read more â
TechCrunch...Figma partners with OpenAI to bake in support for CodexFigma has integrated OpenAI's Codex AI coding tool, enabling users to create and modify designs directly from their coding environments using Figma's MCP server. This integration allows designers and engineers to work seamlessly between design and code without switching applications, enhancing collaboration between the two roles. The partnership follows Figma's recent integration with Anthropic's Claude Code.Read more â
TechCrunch...Trace raises $3M to solve the AI agent adoption problem in enterpriseTrace, a Y Combinator-backed startup, raised $3 million to help enterprises deploy AI agents by providing them with proper organizational context. The company builds knowledge graphs from existing corporate tools and uses context engineering to orchestrate workflows that delegate tasks to AI agents and human workers, addressing a major blocker to enterprise AI adoption.Read more â
Engadget...Watch the trailer for Louis Theroux's new documentary 'Inside the Manosphere'Netflix is releasing Louis Theroux's first full-length documentary 'Inside the Manosphere' on March 11th, examining how influencers are reshaping young men's perspectives on masculinity through interviews with key figures in the movement. The documentary explores the role of social media in amplifying extreme ideologies and pushing fringe content into mainstream culture. Theroux investigates how online platforms have given voice to and actively amplified divisive viewpoints that influence internet culture and society.Read more â
TechCrunch...How to avoid bad hires in early-stage startupsMappa is a voice AI platform founded by CEO Sarah Lucena that analyzes behavioral compatibility in less than 60 seconds to improve hiring decisions beyond traditional credentials. The platform uses proprietary datasets and speech pattern biomarkers to identify employee-role compatibility and reduce costly hiring mistakes. By prioritizing behavioral fit alongside technical qualifications, Mappa addresses a fundamental gap in talent acquisition practices.Read more â
TechCrunch...Everything Samsung revealed at its Galaxy Unpacked eventSamsung unveiled its new Galaxy S26 smartphone lineup with iterative hardware upgrades, including a privacy display feature on the Ultra model that prevents screen visibility from nearby viewers. The event showcased Samsung's deepened AI integration through partnerships with Perplexity and Google, offering users three AI assistants (Bixby, Gemini, Perplexity) across the new devices.Read more â
TechCrunch...Everything announced at Samsungâs Galaxy Unpacked event, including S26 smartphones, Privacy Screen and moreSamsung unveiled its Galaxy S26 smartphone series featuring iterative hardware upgrades and a marquee privacy display feature on the Ultra model that prevents bystanders from viewing the screen. The announcement emphasized Samsung's expanded AI strategy through new partnerships with Perplexity and Google Gemini, making multiple AI assistants available on its devices.Read more â
CNET...My Quest to Virtually Learn the Piano With Roli AirwaveThe Roli Piano Learning System is a multi-device platform featuring a MIDI controller and motion-sensing device paired with a subscription app that teaches piano through interactive video lessons and hand-tracking technology. By combining computer vision feedback, gamified exercises, and popular music content, the system aims to make piano learning more accessible and engaging than traditional lessons.Read more â
Gizmodo...Yes, the Filmmakers Behind âSpider-Man: Beyond the Spider-Verseâ Feel the PressureSpider-Man: Beyond the Spider-Verse has been delayed to June 2027, with producers Phil Lord and Chris Miller explaining the film was originally one project but was split into two as the scope expanded. The filmmakers determined the second film's thematic core required more development time to properly explore how a fractured family reunites. The extended timeline reflects the team's commitment to matching the critical acclaim of the first two films while maintaining creative integrity.Read more â
The Verge...The smart lock standard that could replace your keys is finally hereAliro, an open standard for smart locks, has reached its 1.0 specification, allowing manufacturers to certify hardware and deploy cross-platform digital key support via smartphone and smartwatch wallets. With backing from Apple, Google, Samsung, and major lock makers, Aliro uses NFC and Bluetooth technology to enable tap-to-unlock functionality that works across any compatible device, regardless of manufacturer. The universal standard promises to end fragmentation in the smart lock market, though widespread adoption will require new hardware and rollout is expected to begin within months.Read more â
The Verge...Burger King will use AI to check if employees say âpleaseâ and âthank youâBurger King is launching an OpenAI-powered chatbot called Patty that assists employees with meal preparation and evaluates customer interactions for friendliness. Integrated with the BK Assistant platform, the chatbot combines data from drive-thru conversations, kitchen equipment, and inventory to streamline operations and alert managers of maintenance issues or stock shortages. The company plans to roll out the platform to all US restaurants by the end of 2026.Read more â
Engadget...The best budget cameras for 2026Camera prices in the US have increased due to tariffs, but quality models remain available under $750. The best choice depends on intended use: action cameras for extreme sports, compact cameras for travel and portability, and mirrorless cameras for professional video quality with larger sensors and expandable lenses.Read more â
CNET...Nearly 70% of US Adults Say One Tech Glitch Throws Off Their Lives. Why That's a Problem and How to Do BetterA CNET survey reveals that 67% of Americans say tech glitches significantly disrupt their lives, highlighting widespread device dependency despite 56% reporting improved mood when disconnected. Social media algorithms negatively impact emotional regulation, triggering anxiety and imposter syndrome. The article provides practical strategies for reducing screen time, including the 20-20-20 rule, usage boundaries, and productivity apps that limit app access.Read more â
Engadget...NY AG: Valve's loot boxes can get kids hooked on gamblingNew York's Attorney General has sued Valve for enabling illegal gambling through loot boxes in popular video games like Counter-Strike 2, Team Fortress 2, and Dota 2, where players pay for randomized items. The lawsuit characterizes loot boxes as gambling and emphasizes their harmful impact on children and teenagers, who face increased risk of developing gambling addictions. Valve has reportedly generated tens of millions of dollars from loot box sales and related marketplace transactions.Read more â
CNET...The Air Fryer Is a Once-in-a-Lifetime Kitchen Craze. Here's How Popular They've BecomeAir fryers have achieved record adoption rates in the US, with approximately 60-70% of households now owning or planning to purchase one, making them the fastest-adopted consumer appliance since smartphones. These compact convection devices are increasingly replacing traditional ovens for everyday cooking due to superior speed and energy efficiency, with manufacturers introducing new designs like glass-chamber models to further expand functionality. The trend reflects fundamental shifts in how consumers approach meal preparation, driving a multi-billion dollar market with sustained growth.Read more â
CNET...Peacock: 24 of the Best Movies to Stream Right NowThis article introduces Peacock's diverse movie collection, highlighting how Universal Pictures' backing provides cinema classics and contemporary films across multiple genres. The piece serves as a guide to help subscribers find quality content on the platform amid the crowded streaming landscape.Read more â
Gizmodo...The New âLego Batmanâ Game Gets the Party Started With Princeâs Legendary âBatmanâ SoundtrackLego Batman: Legacy of the Dark Knight will launch May 29, building on decades of Batman films, television, comics, and games. Warner Bros. Games released a promotional cinematic inspired by Tim Burton's 1989 Batman film, featuring Prince's iconic soundtrack. The game marks a highly anticipated return to the Lego Batman franchise, combining gaming and entertainment nostalgia.Read more â
Gizmodo...5 Medical Innovations on HBOâs âThe Pittâ That Are Revolutionizing Emergency CareHBO's medical drama 'The Pitt' features real cutting-edge medical technologies including robotic CPR systems, AI-enhanced ultrasound, AI-assisted charting, virtual reality for patient distraction, and hemostatic devices. The show explores how these innovations are transforming emergency care while critically examining AI's potential for errors and limitations in clinical settings.Read more â
The Verge...Instagram will alert parents if their kids 'repeatedly' search for self-harm topicsInstagram is launching a parental alert system that notifies parents when their teens repeatedly search for self-harm or suicide-related content, rolling out next week in select countries for opted-in users. The feature aims to help parents intervene and support teens in crisis while avoiding excessive notifications. Meta plans to implement similar safeguards in its AI chatbots later this year.Read more â
TechCrunch...Instagram now alerts parents if their teen searches for suicide or self-harm contentInstagram will alert parents via email, text, WhatsApp, and in-app notifications when teens repeatedly search for suicide or self-harm content, providing resources to help parents support their children. The feature aims to enable early intervention and parent awareness of concerning search behavior. The launch comes amid multiple lawsuits against Meta regarding teen safety on its platforms.Read more â
Engadget...Instagram will alert parents if teens repeatedly search for suicide or self-harm contentInstagram is introducing a parental alert system that notifies parents when their teen repeatedly searches for suicide or self-harm-related content, enabling early intervention and support conversations. The feature will roll out to parental supervision users in the US, UK, Australia, and Canada beginning next week. The company plans to extend similar alerts to its AI tools later this year.Read more â
The Verge...Google takes control of âAndroid of roboticsâ project in quest for physical AIGoogle is folding Alphabet's AI robotics "moonshot," Intrinsic, into the company after five years as an independent unit. The move marks a strategic shift as Google doubles down on physical AI and pulls experimental projects closer to its core business. Intrinsic "graduated" into an independent company inside Alphabet's Other Bets division in 2021, a portfolio […]Read more â
Engadget...Gaming accessory maker and publisher Nacon files for insolvencyFrench gaming developer and accessory manufacturer Nacon has filed for insolvency after its majority shareholder failed to make a loan repayment, threatening the future of its game titles and hardware products. The company aims to continue operations while protecting employees and renegotiating with creditors, with a court decision expected in early March.Read more â
Engadget...The best ergonomic keyboards for 2026This comprehensive guide evaluates ergonomic keyboards designed to prevent discomfort and repetitive strain injuries from prolonged desk work, covering design types such as split and Alice layouts with features like tenting and programmable keys. The author tested 15 models and emphasizes that proper ergonomic keyboard selection, combined with regular breaks and movement, can significantly improve comfort and reduce workplace-related physical strain.Read more â
Gizmodo...FTC Softens Enforcement of Rule Protecting Children Online, Ostensibly to Protect Children OnlineThe FTC issued a policy statement that will not enforce COPPA regulations against companies collecting children's data if it is used solely for age verification, effectively relaxing protections designed to prevent such data gathering. This move incentivizes the adoption of age verification technologies, though critics argue it may undermine the original intent of child privacy laws. The Commission plans to formally amend the COPPA Rule in coming months to address age-verification mechanisms.Read more â
Gizmodo...Severe Heart Attacks Are Becoming Deadlier for Younger Americans, Study FindsA longitudinal study found that death rates from severe heart attacks among Americans under 55 rose between 2011 and 2022, contrary to decades of overall decline, with non-traditional risk factors like kidney disease and lower income being stronger mortality predictors than classic ones. The research revealed younger women face significantly higher fatality rates and receive fewer medical interventions despite experiencing similar complication rates as men. These findings underscore the need for earlier discussions between younger patients and physicians about evolving cardiovascular risk profiles.Read more â
CNET...This Is the World's First Wearable You Can Talk ToLuna has launched the Luna Ring Gen 2 with voice capabilities, making it the first wearable that users can speak to for logging health data and answering health-related questions without opening an app. The device is powered by Gemini AI and compatible with Siri, offering a fundamental shift in wearable technology by providing contextual understanding of daily behaviors and biometrics. However, the device is currently unavailable in the US due to patent disputes, limiting its market availability.Read more â
CNET...Turns Out Perplexity Might Be the Sleeper Feature on Samsung's Galaxy S26Samsung is integrating Perplexity's AI agent directly into its Galaxy S26 phones with system-level access alongside Google's Gemini, allowing users to choose between multiple AI assistants via voice commands and deep software integration. This marks the first time a third-party AI company has achieved parity with Google on a major mobile OS, signaling a strategic shift toward multi-AI mobile ecosystems that prioritize user choice.Read more â
CNET...Today's NYT Connections: Sports Edition Hints and Answers for Feb. 26, #521This article provides hints and complete answers for the NYT Connections Sports Edition puzzle game, which features sports-themed word grouping challenges. The puzzle includes four themed categories related to sports movies, coaching decisions, basketball players, and fictional coaches.Read more â
Gizmodo...âCompute Equals Revenuesâ: Nvidia Needs Jensen Huangâs New Catchphrase to Be TrueNvidia reported strong earnings with data center revenue up 68% year-over-year, scaling its business 13x since ChatGPT's emergence, driven by major hyperscaler AI infrastructure investments totaling $700 billion. However, the article highlights growing concerns that despite massive capex commitments, enterprises are not yet seeing significant returns, with analyses showing AI contributed minimally to U.S. GDP growth and productivity gains. CEO Jensen Huang defended the spending by arguing that compute capacity directly translates to revenues as AI becomes essential to all software.Read more â
TechCrunch...Salesforce CEO Marc Benioff: This isnât our first SaaSpocalypseSalesforce reported strong Q4 earnings and reassured investors that AI agents will enhance rather than undermine its business model by positioning itself as the dominant layer in the enterprise software stack above AI models. The company introduced a new metric called Agentic Work Units to measure actual task completion and announced a dividend increase and $50 billion share buyback to bolster investor confidence.Read more â
Gizmodo...Valve Has Been âLetting Children and Adults Alike Illegally Gamble,â New York A.G. AllegesNew York's Attorney General sued Valve over loot boxes in games like Dota 2 and Counter-Strike, alleging they function as gambling mechanisms designed to entice usersâparticularly childrenâinto spending money for chances to win valuable items. The suit argues that Valve's Community Market, which allows players to resell won items for real cash, creates gambling-like financial incentives. The Counter-Strike items market alone is valued at billions of dollars.Read more â
CNET...ADT Acquires AI Company for Sensing People and Activity in Your HomeADT acquired Origin AI for $170 million to integrate presence-sensing technology into its home security platform, using Wi-Fi analysis to detect human activity without cameras. While the technology offers privacy advantages over traditional surveillance and enables smart home automation, it raises significant concerns about corporate access to residents' activities and potential law enforcement misuse.Read more â
CNET...The 8 Biggest Announcements from Samsung's Galaxy Unpacked 2026 EventSamsung unveiled its Galaxy S26 lineup at Unpacked, featuring the S26 Ultra with a new Privacy Display technology that darkens the screen from side angles, along with the standard S26 and S26 Plus models at $100 higher prices. The announcement emphasized AI integration across the new phones, including a new Samsung Browser powered by Perplexity, AI photo editing, and smart contextual features like Now Nudge. Samsung also introduced the Galaxy Buds 4 earbuds with enhanced audio capabilities.Read more â
CNET...New York Sues Valve, Saying Game Developer Promotes Illegal GamblingNew York's attorney general filed a lawsuit against Valve, alleging that the company illegally operates gambling-like loot boxes in popular games like Counter-Strike 2 and Dota 2, particularly targeting young people. The complaint claims Valve has generated billions of dollars from these randomized mechanics, which feature variable odds set by the company and secondary resale opportunities that create additional revenue streams.Read more â
CNET...Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra vs. Galaxy S26 and S26 Plus: Flagship Specs ComparisonSamsung unveiled its Galaxy S26 series with the flagship S26 Ultra featuring a 200-megapixel main camera, 5x telephoto lens, and up to 1TB storage while maintaining last year's $1,300 price. The S26 and S26 Plus saw price increases to $900 and $1,100 respectively, powered by Qualcomm's Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 processor. The S26 Ultra differentiates itself with a larger 6.9-inch display and fastest charging speeds of up to 60 watts.Read more â
CNET...A Hacker Threat Is Hiding in Your Car's Tire Pressure SystemResearchers discovered that tire pressure monitoring systems in cars manufactured after 2008 emit unencrypted wireless signals that can be intercepted to track vehicle movements and driver patterns from over 50 meters away. This privacy vulnerability poses a serious security risk despite being identified over 16 years ago, with the study urging manufacturers and regulators to implement more secure TPMS designs.Read more â
Gizmodo...The Goodâand BadâNews About Next Weekâs Total Lunar EclipseA total lunar eclipse on March 3 will make the Moon appear reddish across North America, Australia, New Zealand, and eastern Asia as it passes through Earth's shadow. This will be the last total lunar eclipse visible from North America for nearly three years until December 2028. The eclipse is visible to the naked eye without special equipment.Read more â
TechCrunch...Gushwork bets on AI search for customer leads â and early results are emergingGushwork, an India-founded startup, raised $9 million in seed funding to help businesses capture customers from AI-powered search tools such as ChatGPT, Gemini, and Perplexity. The company uses automated AI agents to generate search-optimized content and build backlinks, enabling businesses to gain visibility in AI-driven discovery channels. With over 300 paying customers and 50-80% month-over-month growth, Gushwork is capitalizing on the shift toward AI-driven customer discovery.Read more â
Engadget...New Webb Telescope photos show off the Exposed Cranium NebulaNASA's James Webb Space Telescope has captured detailed images of the Exposed Cranium Nebula (PMR 1), revealing distinct evolutionary regions including an outer hydrogen shell and inner cloud with complex gas composition. The nebula's distinctive brain-like morphology is likely caused by bipolar jets ejected from a central star. These observations provide new insights into stellar evolution and the mechanisms that shape nebulae during the final stages of star development.Read more â
TechCrunch...Anthropic acquires computer-use AI startup Vercept after Meta poached one of its foundersAnthropic has acquired Vercept, a Seattle-based AI startup specializing in advanced agentic tools and computer-use capabilities. The acquisition brings key researchers including co-founders Ehsani, Weihs, and Girshick to accelerate Anthropic's AI agent development, though Vercept's product Vy will be discontinued on March 25. This represents Anthropic's continued strategy to acquire AI talent and capabilities, following its December acquisition of Bun.Read more â
The Verge...New York sues Valve, alleging its loot boxes are âquintessential gamblingâNew York Attorney General Letitia James has filed a lawsuit against Valve, alleging that its loot box systems in games like Counter-Strike 2, Team Fortress 2, and Dota 2 constitute illegal gambling under state law. The lawsuit claims Valve has generated tens of millions of dollars by selling random-reward loot boxes to New York residents, with particular concern raised about the systems' appeal to children and adolescents. The attorney general seeks to ban these gambling features and recover Valve's profits from the unlawful practice.Read more â
Gizmodo...Revolut Ex-Employee Allegedly Tried to Extort a Customer for Crypto RansomA former Revolut employee's extortion of a crypto trader using stolen customer data illustrates the critical vulnerabilities of centralized platforms storing sensitive personal and financial information. The incident exemplifies the fundamental tension between regulatory compliance requirements that necessitate data centralization and Bitcoin's original principle of decentralized security, while rising physical attacks on crypto users globally demonstrate the real-world consequences of identity-linked asset exposure.Read more â
Gizmodo...Discord Is Delaying Age Checks Following User BacklashDiscord has delayed the global implementation of its age-verification policies until the second half of 2026 following user backlash, citing communication failures. The platform will use internal signals to estimate user age for over 90% of accounts, with third-party verification required only when age cannot be determined internally, prioritizing user privacy through vendors that cannot link identity to Discord accounts.Read more â
TechCrunch...Nvidia has another record quarter amid record capex spendsNvidia reported record quarterly revenue of $68 billion with a 73% year-over-year increase, driven by exponential demand for AI compute, with $51 billion from GPU sales alone. CEO Jensen Huang emphasized that compute has become essential for AI token generation and revenue growth, noting that even six-year-old GPUs remain fully consumed. The company continues pursuing strategic investments including a potential $30 billion partnership with OpenAI while acknowledging that Chinese competitors pose a long-term threat to the industry structure.Read more â
CNET...The Top 25 Best Pokemon Games of All Time, RankedPokemon continues its dominance as the world's highest-grossing entertainment franchise with multiple new games launching in 2026, notably Pokemon Champions, a unified competitive battler coming to Nintendo Switch, Android, and iOS. This expansion, along with updates to existing titles and Trading Card Game content, reinforces the franchise's position across gaming and digital entertainment.Read more â
Gizmodo...Chicken Jockey Beaten By Furries as âZootopia 2â Becomes 2025âs Top Domestic MovieZootopia 2 has become the highest-grossing 2025 film domestically, surpassing A Minecraft Movie with $424.2 million at the U.S. box office. The Disney sequel also holds records for highest worldwide earnings at $1.85 billion and fastest PG-rated film to reach $1 billion globally.Read more â
Gizmodo...Guy Bets Entire Life Savings Against Elon Musk, WinsA tax economist profited over $128,000 by correctly betting that federal spending would increase through 2025, despite Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency pledging major cuts. His analysis identified that major entitlements and defense spending would prevent significant reductions, while most opponents were Musk supporters betting he would succeed. The case demonstrates that betting against Musk's promises has become a reliable strategy on prediction markets.Read more â
CNET...How to Watch the 'Survivor 50' Premiere Without CableThe 50th season of Survivor premieres with 24 returning players competing for $1 million under a fan-voted game format where viewers determined key mechanics such as idol rules and final four fire-making procedures. The three-hour premiere airs live on CBS and is available to stream on Paramount Plus, with the interactive theme "In the Hands of the Fans" giving viewers unprecedented influence over gameplay elements.Read more â
The Verge...How the new Galaxy S26 phones stack up against each other on paperSamsung's new S26 phones feature integrated AI tools and enhanced processing performance across the lineup. The phones maintain hardware differentiation across models despite sharing core AI capabilities and speed improvements.Read more â
Engadget...Snap is hosting its own creator awards showSnap is launching the Snappy Awards Show on March 31 to celebrate popular creators and content across its platform. The event is part of Snap's strategy to attract and monetize influencers through tools like creator subscriptions and dedicated recognition programs. Awards will be given for categories including Spotlight MVP, Best Storyteller, Breakout Creator, and cultural impact.Read more â
CNET...Alexa Plus Now Adapts to Your Moods in Real Time: We Try It OutAmazon has introduced three new personality stylesâbrief, chill, and sweetâto Alexa Plus, enabling the AI assistant to adapt its tone and communication style to match individual user preferences. Built on five dimensions including expressiveness, emotional openness, formality, directness, and humor, the feature aims to create a more personalized assistant experience. The new personalities are immediately available to Alexa Plus users, including free access for Amazon Prime subscribers.Read more â
Gizmodo...The AI Arms Race Joins Forces With the Literal Arms Race, Fueling $348 Trillion in DebtGlobal debt has reached a record $348 trillion, with the largest annual increase since the pandemic driven by investments in national security and AI infrastructure. Tech giants are engaging in unprecedented borrowing to finance AI data centers and infrastructure, raising investor concerns about excessive debt-fueled spending and potential market overheating.Read more â
Engadget...Skate's developer is laying off staff before the game leaves early accessFull Circle, developer of the free-to-play Skate game, has announced a restructuring with staff layoffs less than six months after the game's early access launch in September 2025. The studio stated the changes are necessary to better support the game's long-term future. The layoffs highlight potential challenges facing the live-service model that differs significantly from previous paid Skate titles.Read more â
CNET...On Expands Robot Factories to Manufacture Its Cloud-Like SneakersOn is expanding its robotic shoe manufacturing operations with a new facility in South Korea, adding 32 automated robots to increase production capacity. The expansion leverages robotic LightSpray technology that reduces waste and carbon emissions while accelerating the design-to-production timeline compared to traditional handcrafted methods. The company plans to continue global expansion with production in the Americas and Europe, positioning robotics as central to its manufacturing strategy.Read more â
Gizmodo...Samsung Galaxy S26 vs. iPhone 17: Is It All About AI?Samsung's Galaxy S26 line increases prices by $100 over the previous generation while offering minimal hardware improvements over the iPhone 17, with expanded AI features like automated app actions and an enhanced Privacy Display as the primary differentiators. The price increase combined with limited performance gains and incomplete AI implementation make ecosystem switching unlikely for most users.Read more â
The Verge...Corsair is halting Drop sales after March 25thCorsair is shutting down the Drop store after acquiring it in 2023, consolidating the mechanical keyboard and audio marketplace into its own platform and retail partners. Products will either migrate to Corsair.com, Amazon, and Best Buy, or be discontinued, particularly third-party brand collaborations. No layoffs are planned, and existing orders and warranties will be honored.Read more â
Engadget...Everything announced at Samsung Unpacked: The Galaxy S26 Ultra, Galaxy Buds 4 and moreSamsung announced the Galaxy S26 lineup with prices starting at $900 for the base model, with the S26 Ultra maintaining its $1,300 price point. Key features include a Privacy Display on the S26 Ultra for enhanced screen privacy, improved AI capabilities through Perplexity and Bixby integration, and camera enhancements powered by new imaging technology. The company also released redesigned Galaxy Buds 4 models with improved audio quality and active noise cancellation.Read more â
Gizmodo...Teens Declare: Superheroes Are Out, Daddy Energy Is InA UCLA survey of 1,500 young people (ages 10-24) found that nearly 60 percent of Gen Z and Gen Alpha prefer emotionally vulnerable, competent characters over traditional stoic superheroes. Young audiences increasingly desire portrayals of caring fathers, expressive men, and characters seeking help rather than tortured heroes. This suggests the industry's perceived superhero fatigue reflects generational preferences for different masculinity representations rather than declining attention spans.Read more â
Gizmodo...Used Teslas Are Getting More Expensive While Other EVs Get CheaperUsed Tesla prices increased an average of 4.3% since the federal EV tax credit ended in September 2025, while other used EVs became significantly cheaper. The discontinuation of the $4,000 federal tax credit has caused the overall used EV market to contract by 20%, with mainstream buyers most affected by the loss of incentives. High-priced Tesla models like the Model X and Model S saw steeper price increases as they appeal to less price-sensitive buyers.Read more â
Engadget...The next Assassin's Creed game loses its creative directorUbisoft's creative director Clint Hocking has departed the studio after 20 years, with Jean Guedson assuming creative leadership on the next Assassin's Creed game. The exit marks another leadership transition amid ongoing turmoil at Ubisoft, including layoffs, studio closures, and a restructuring that now places the franchise under Tencent-backed Vantage Studios.Read more â
CNET...Dear Samsung, I Don't Need AI to Handle Every Task for MeSamsung's Galaxy S26 lineup heavily integrates AI into daily tasks, positioning itself as an 'agentic AI phone' with features like automatic photo sharing and contextual task suggestions. While offering convenience, this extensive AI integration raises concerns about privacy, data access, and the erosion of meaningful human engagement as automated systems replace personal interactions and decision-making.Read more â
Gizmodo...The âOverdueâ West Coast Mega-Earthquake May Not Be Looming After AllA new study challenges the long-held assumption that major earthquakes follow predictable cycles, revealing instead that they occur randomly in bursts and lulls. Analysis of 6,000 years of seismic data from multiple high-risk regions including the West Coast and Himalayas found no regular pattern, suggesting catastrophic earthquakes are far less predictable than previously believed. This research substantially increases seismic hazard estimates and underscores the need for constant earthquake preparedness.Read more â
Engadget...Canadian government demands safety changes from OpenAICanadian authorities summoned OpenAI leaders to address safety concerns regarding ChatGPT after the company failed to notify law enforcement about an account used by a user allegedly responsible for a mass shooting in British Columbia. OpenAI employees had flagged the account for warning signs of real-world violence, but leadership determined it did not meet their criteria for police escalation. The government warned of potential regulatory changes if OpenAI does not implement improvements to its safety protocols and law enforcement notification procedures.Read more â
CNET...Samsung Said 'AI' a Lot at Unpacked. Except When It Talked About the EnvironmentSamsung's Galaxy S26 launch exemplifies tech companies' failure to adequately address AI's significant environmental costs despite heavily marketing AI features. Major data centers powering AI systems require enormous energy and water resources, yet companies like Samsung, Google, and Microsoft downplay these impacts while promoting AI-heavy products. Tech firms must acknowledge and meaningfully mitigate AI's environmental impact alongside their sustainability initiatives.Read more â
The Verge...The Peace Corps is recruiting volunteers to sell AI to developing nationsThe Peace Corps has launched the 'Tech Corps' program to deploy volunteers who will promote the adoption of American AI systems in developing countries, marking a shift from humanitarian assistance toward commercial technology promotion. Analysts warn the initiative faces significant competition from cheaper Chinese AI alternatives and may undermine diplomatic relationships due to perceived commercial interests and concurrent US aid reductions.Read more â
TechCrunch...The White House wants AI companies to cover rate hikes. Most have already said they would.AI data centers have increased national electricity prices by over 6%, prompting President Trump to call on major tech companies to cover their own power costs. Microsoft, OpenAI, Anthropic, Google, and other hyperscalers have made public commitments to pay for their electricity needs through building private power plants or purchasing renewable energy. The implementation details and enforcement mechanisms for these pledges remain unresolved, with lawmakers seeking stronger guarantees.Read more â
Engadget...Xbox consoles now support 1440p streamingMicrosoft is expanding 1440p streaming support to Xbox consoles for Game Pass Ultimate subscribers, bringing higher-resolution gameplay to users with compatible displays. The enhancement applies to both Game Pass library titles and player-owned games. Additionally, Microsoft is improving the Xbox PC app with controller navigation sounds and enhancing ASUS ROG handheld compatibility with better storage formatting and driver updates.Read more â
The Verge...Trump claims heâll make data centers pay for their own power supplyDuring his State of the Union address, the president called on tech companies to take greater responsibility for mitigating the environmental and community impacts of their data centers. The statement reflects growing regulatory pressure on the industry to adopt sustainable practices and address concerns over power consumption and resource usage. This marks a significant shift toward holding major technology firms accountable for infrastructure expansion effects on surrounding populations.Read more â
Gizmodo...The Most Messed-Up-Looking âAbsolute Batmanâ Villains, RankedAbsolute Batman, a critically acclaimed comic book series by Scott Snyder and Nick Dragotta, showcases exceptional villain character redesigns that blend heavy-metal aesthetics with anime influences. The series delivers one of DC's strongest runs through stellar writing and innovative character work that reimagines Batman's classic rogues gallery. The combination of brutal storytelling and inventive visual design demonstrates why the series has become a standout in modern superhero comics.Read more â
TechCrunch...US cybersecurity agency CISA reportedly in dire shape amid Trump cuts and layoffsThe U.S. Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) has significantly weakened following staffing cuts and reassignments, losing approximately one-third of its workforce and critical programs including counter-ransomware initiatives and secure software development efforts. Operating at roughly 38% capacity during a federal government shutdown with no permanent director, the agency faces serious questions about its ability to respond to major cybersecurity incidents or protect federal networks and election infrastructure.Read more â
CNET...Podcast Listenership Outranks Talk Radio for the First Time in HistoryPodcast listenership has surpassed traditional AM/FM radio for the first time in the United States, reaching 40% of Americans aged 13 and older compared to 39% for radio as of late 2025. This historic milestone represents a dramatic shift from 2015, when podcast adoption was only 10% while radio commanded 75% of the listening audience. The change reflects evolving consumer preferences and the proliferation of podcasts across multiple streaming platforms and devices.Read more â
Gizmodo...Kalshi Bans MrBeast Video Editor and Political Candidate Over Insider TradingKalshi prediction market platform banned two users for insider tradingâa MrBeast video editor allegedly trading on non-public information and a California political candidate who publicly promoted his bets on social media. Both users were fined and their cases referred to the Commodity Futures Trading Commission. The enforcement actions highlight challenges in detecting and preventing insider trading in prediction markets with numerous potential information sources.Read more â
TechCrunch...Welcome to the post-hype crypto marketCryptocurrency is re-emerging in startup conversations following ETHDenver, but with a significant shift toward policy and regulatory concerns rather than token speculation. The market faces new pressures as Tether and stablecoins encounter government scrutiny, while established players like Stripe cautiously re-enter the space. The shift marks a transition from hype cycles to assessing which crypto businesses are built for long-term sustainability.Read more â
Gizmodo...Why This Part of Antarctica Bleeds Blood RedResearchers have solved a century-long mystery about Blood Falls in Antarctica, determining that glacier pressure forces mineral-rich saltwater upward, which oxidizes to create the distinctive red coloration. Using GPS data and temperature analysis, scientists found that the crushing weight of the Taylor Glacier creates periodic bursts of pressurized briny water. The discovery demonstrates the complex coupling between glacier dynamics, subglacial hydrology, and ecosystem processes in Antarctica's Dry Valleys.Read more â
The Verge...Hereâs how the new Samsung Galaxy S26 compares with last yearâs S25Multiple smartphone models showcase advanced rear camera systems with progressively larger main sensors up to 200MP and improved aperture sizes ranging from f/1.4 to f/3.4, complemented by dual telephoto and ultrawide lenses for enhanced zoom and wide-angle capabilities. The evolution demonstrates manufacturers' focus on low-light performance and versatile multi-lens configurations in flagship mobile devices.Read more â
CNET...When to Watch 'Bridgerton' Season 4, Part 2 on NetflixNetflix will release the second half of Bridgerton season 4 on February 26, 2025, making all eight episodes available to stream. The season focuses on Benedict Bridgerton's romantic storyline with Sophie Baek, a maid he met at a masquerade ball. The release includes returning cast members and new characters alongside the familiar Bridgerton family ensemble.Read more â
TechCrunch...Alphabet-owned robotics software company Intrinsic joins GoogleAlphabet's Intrinsic, a robotics software company, is integrating with Google to leverage Google DeepMind's capabilities and Gemini AI models for advancing physical AI technology. The integration aims to make industrial robotics more accessible to manufacturers and developers while accelerating progress toward factory automation. Intrinsic's robotics expertise combined with Google's AI infrastructure is positioned to fundamentally transform manufacturing operations and economics.Read more â
The Verge...Google and Samsung just launched the AI features Apple couldnât with SiriGoogle announced that Gemini will soon autonomously handle complex multi-step tasks like food ordering and ride-hailing on Pixel and Samsung phones, positioning it as an AI agent rather than just a chatbot. This capability, starting with a beta launch, represents a significant advance in mobile AI and potentially leapfrogs similar features Apple promised at WWDC 2024 but has yet to release. The demonstration marks an important milestone in making agentic AI practical for everyday smartphone use.Read more â
CNET...Samsung S26 Ultra's Privacy Display Makes Shoulder Surfing a Thing of the PastSamsung's new Galaxy S26 Ultra features an innovative Privacy Display that prevents observers from viewing the screen from the side, using directional backlighting and adaptive pixel technology to funnel light forward. The display automatically activates enhanced privacy mode when it detects nearby faces or when sensitive applications like banking apps are accessed, maintaining full clarity for the primary user while blocking lateral visibility.Read more â
TechCrunch...Snapchat announces âThe Snappys,â its first-ever creator awards showSnapchat announced its inaugural awards show, "The Snappys," scheduled for March 21, to celebrate creators across categories including Spotlight MVP, Best Storyteller, and Breakout Creator of the Year. The initiative mirrors similar programs from Instagram and TikTok, positioning Snapchat as an entertainment industry player while reinforcing its commitment to creator recognition and community building. DJ Khaled will receive a Lifetime Achievement Award at the event held at Snap's Santa Monica headquarters.Read more â
CNET...Using AI as a Therapist? Why Professionals Say You Should Think AgainResearch from major universities has found that AI chatbots claiming to provide therapy are unsafe and ineffective replacements for qualified mental health professionals, lacking proper credentials and therapeutic protocols. These chatbots have been documented encouraging self-harm and suicide while being designed to maximize engagement rather than improve outcomes. Regulatory bodies including the FTC are investigating companies like Meta and Character.AI, and Illinois has banned AI use in mental health care in response to documented harms.Read more â
Engadget...Tecno just unveiled a ridiculously thin modular smartphone concept designTecno unveiled a modular smartphone concept at MWC 2026 featuring an ultra-thin 4.9mm base phone with magnetic and pin connector technology for easy module attachment. The design includes ten available modules such as camera lenses and gaming controller, with power delivery via pins and wireless data transmission. While currently a concept design, Tecno's magnetic attachment technology could influence future commercial products.Read more â
TechCrunch...An accountant won a big jackpot on Kalshi by betting against DOGEA tax accountant risked his entire life savings of over $342,000 betting against Elon Musk supporters on Kalshi prediction market that the Department of Government Efficiency could not rapidly reduce federal spending. His contrarian position, grounded in expertise with federal obligations and debt dynamics, proved correct, allowing him to accumulate approximately 3% of a $12 million prediction market.Read more â
TechCrunch...Inside the story of the US defense contractor who leaked hacking tools to RussiaA former L3Harris executive was sentenced to 87 months in prison for stealing and selling zero-day exploits and surveillance tools to Russian firm Operation Zero, receiving $1.3 million in cryptocurrency between 2022 and 2025. The stolen tools from the company's Trenchant division could potentially compromise millions of computers and devices globally. The case highlights significant national security risks from insider threats at defense contractors and prompted U.S. sanctions against the Russian exploit broker.Read more â
Engadget...HP says RAM now accounts for more than a third of its PC costsThe surge in AI infrastructure demand is driving memory costs to unprecedented levels, with RAM now comprising 35 percent of PC system costs compared to 15-18 percent previously. Major manufacturers including HP and Samsung are warning of significant price increases for consumer PCs as memory supply remains constrained. While demand for AI-capable PCs is rising, the broader market shows mixed signals regarding consumer interest in AI features.Read more â
CNET...Big Shock: Samsung's Galaxy S26 Ultra Camera Updates Have a Ton of AISamsung's Galaxy S26 Ultra features incremental camera improvements including wider apertures and enhanced night mode, with hardware specifications unchanged from the S25 Ultra. The device's primary upgrades center on AI-powered generative editing tools that use natural language prompts to manipulate images, including compositing and outfit modification. The focus on AI features over fundamental imaging hardware represents a shift in Samsung's innovation strategy, with effectiveness in real-world use still to be determined.Read more â
TechCrunch...Samsung shows off new display tech that adds a privacy screen to apps and notificationsSamsung introduced a new privacy display technology called Black Matrix for the Galaxy S26 that uses narrow and wide pixels to prevent shoulder surfing on a per-app basis. Unlike traditional privacy films, this technology maintains screen brightness and allows flexible content sharing. The feature includes customizable per-app settings and a maximum privacy protection mode for enhanced security.Read more â
CNET...After Backlash, Discord Will Delay Age Verification Changes to Its PlatformDiscord is delaying age verification changes for younger users until the second half of 2026 after significant backlash over unclear communication and privacy concerns. The company will no longer partner with Persona for age verification and instead implement on-device verification to prevent biometric data from leaving users' phones. Discord also cut ties with vendor 5CA following a data breach, signaling renewed commitment to user privacy and transparency.Read more â
Gizmodo...Anthropic Rolls Back Safety Protocols as It Waits to Find Out If Itâs Being Drafted by the ArmyAnthropic has weakened its Responsible Scaling Policy by replacing firm safety commitments with nonbinding voluntary goals, compromising its position as a safety-focused AI company. The shift appears linked to Pentagon pressure demanding access to Anthropic's AI for military applications, including autonomous missile launches. This raises concerns about how government pressure and competitive dynamics can override stated AI safety principles.Read more â
Engadget...Kalshi fined a MrBeast editor for insider tradingKalshi suspended a MrBeast video editor for insider trading after he executed statistically anomalous trades using non-public information about YouTube and MrBeast-related markets, resulting in a two-year ban and over $20,000 fine. The platform reported the violation to the CFTC and will donate the fine to a consumer education nonprofit. Kalshi also suspended a California gubernatorial candidate for trading on his own candidacy, demonstrating growing enforcement of insider trading rules in prediction markets.Read more â
TechCrunch...Wearable startup CUDIS launches a new health ring line with an AI-fueled âcoachâCUDIS is launching a health ring equipped with an AI agent coach designed to personalize fitness programs and incentivize healthy behaviors through a digital points system redeemable for health products. The wearable tracks comprehensive health metrics including sleep, stress, and movement, while calculating a Pace of Aging metric to show whether the body is aging faster or slower than chronological age. Since launching in 2024, the company has sold over 30,000 units and grown its user base to 250,000 across 103 countries.Read more â
The Verge...Where to preorder all of Samsungâs new Galaxy S26 phonesSamsung has launched its 2026 Galaxy S26 flagship lineup with models starting at $899.99, available for preorder with March 11th release. The devices emphasize AI-powered enhancements including call screening, generative photo editing, and advanced Gemini integration powered by Qualcomm's Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 processor. While hardware improvements are modest with larger batteries and displays, software innovationsâparticularly the privacy display on the Ultra modelârepresent the primary upgrades from the S25 generation.Read more â
TechCrunch...Kalshi fined a MrBeast editor for insider trading on markets related to the YouTube starMrBeast's video editor was fined and banned from the prediction market Kalshi after an investigation found he traded on non-public information about upcoming videos, generating approximately $5,400 in profits. The case highlights growing concerns about insider trading and market manipulation on prediction platforms, prompting lawmakers to propose legislation restricting government employees from trading on markets related to government policy.Read more â
TechCrunch...The public opposition to AI infrastructure is heating upCommunities across the United States are increasingly opposing AI data center construction through moratoriums and policy changes, citing environmental impacts, energy affordability concerns, and infrastructure strain. While tech giants plan massive capital expenditures for data center expansion, public polling shows 46% of respondents would oppose such projects in their communities, driving states to reconsider tax incentives and implement stricter environmental regulations.Read more â
Gizmodo...Firing Melissa Barrera Was Very Costly âScreamâ DecisionScream 7 underwent significant production upheaval after lead actress Melissa Barrera was fired for comments deemed anti-Semitic, triggering director and scriptwriting changes costing approximately $500,000. The franchise brought back creator Kevin Williamson to direct and rewrite the script, and paid returning star Neve Campbell $7 million to reprise her role. Despite these substantial costs relative to the $45 million budget, the film is tracking for a potentially record-breaking opening.Read more â
Gizmodo...Senate Grills MAHA Influencer Pick for Surgeon General Over Vaccines, Autism, and Financial TiesDuring Senate confirmation hearings, Casey Means, nominated for U.S. surgeon general, refused to directly refute the debunked link between vaccines and autism, and faced scrutiny over undisclosed financial interests in wellness products she publicly promoted. Her evasive responses on vaccine effectiveness and inactive medical license raised concerns about her scientific credibility. The hearing highlighted potential conflicts between her alignment with alternative health movements and evidence-based public health policy.Read more â
CNET...This One Killer Feature Sets the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra Apart From All Other PhonesSamsung's Galaxy S26 Ultra introduces Privacy Display, a hardware innovation using pixel-level technology to prevent viewers from seeing the screen when viewed from angles. The feature can be selectively applied to specific apps, notifications, and password inputs, offering practical privacy protection without additional accessories. Analysts expect this distinctive capability to become a benchmark feature across premium smartphones and devices in coming years.Read more â
CNET...Galaxy S26 Ultra Is Improving Cooling Tech, so You Can Use Your Phone LongerSamsung redesigned the Vapor Chamber cooling system in the Galaxy S26 Ultra to more efficiently distribute heat, enabling extended gaming and video recording without thermal concerns. The improved cooling mechanism features thermal interface material positioned around the processor and aluminum construction, delivering better battery performance and consistent device temperatures. This cooling advancement aligns with Apple's similar thermal improvements in the iPhone 17 Pro, reflecting a broader industry focus on enhanced thermal management in flagship phones.Read more â
Engadget...Anthropic weakens its safety pledge in the wake of the Pentagon's pressure campaignAnthropic modified its Responsible Scaling Policy to lower AI safety guardrails, moving from strict safety commitments to a more flexible approach. The announcement came amid Pentagon pressure from Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth demanding military access to Claude AI without safety restrictions. The shift raises concerns about declining AI safety standards and the company's response to competitive and regulatory pressure.Read more â
TechCrunch...Waymo to begin testing in Chicago and CharlotteWaymo is expanding its autonomous vehicle operations to Chicago and Charlotte, beginning with manual mapping and data collection in both cities. Chicago presents a significant test case with its harsh winters, heavy traffic, and urban density, while successful operations there would demonstrate Waymo's system is nationally scalable. The expansion follows Waymo's recent launch of commercial driverless services in Dallas, Houston, San Antonio, and Orlando.Read more â
Gizmodo...Samsung Galaxy Buds 4 Pro Review: No BS, Just Great-Sounding Wireless EarbudsSamsung's Galaxy Buds 4 Pro represent a refined approach to wireless earbuds, featuring an improved design with flat stems, exceptional sound quality with a dual-driver system, and strong active noise cancellation. While they excel at fundamental earbud features and offer excellent value at $250, they lack the innovative health-tracking and boundary-pushing features that competitors like Apple's AirPods Pro 3 provide.Read more â
Engadget...March's PS Plus Monthly Games include Monster Hunter Rise and Slime Rancher 2Sony announced its PlayStation Plus Monthly Games for March, featuring Monster Hunter Rise, Slime Rancher 2, The Elder Scrolls Online Collection: Gold Road, and PGA Tour 2K25, all available to subscribers across all tiers starting March 3. Previous monthly titles will be removed from the catalog on March 2.Read more â
Gizmodo...The New âMortal Kombat IIâ Trailer Asks Johnny Cage to Step the Hell UpWarner Bros. released a new trailer for Mortal Kombat II (May 2026) featuring an expanded cast including Karl Urban as Johnny Cage and a central tournament storyline. The sequel doubles the action from the 2021 reboot with increased intensity and character-driven storytelling. A third Mortal Kombat film is in development.Read more â
The Verge...Kalshi says it fined a MrBeast editor and a politician for insider tradingKalshi prediction betting market has issued its first disclosed insider trading fines, including a $20,000 penalty against a MrBeast editor who traded on material non-public information and a fine plus five-year ban for a California politician who traded on his own candidacy. The enforcement action reflects growing regulatory scrutiny of prediction markets as they gain popularity, with concerns over substantial profits made through information advantages. Kalshi has conducted over 200 investigations in the past year as state regulators in Nevada and Massachusetts have initiated legal action against the platform.Read more â
CNET...Samsung Is Finally Rolling Out a Practical AI Feature: Call ScreeningSamsung's Galaxy S26 introduces an AI-powered call screening feature that automatically answers unknown calls and summarizes them, helping users identify and avoid spam and scams. The feature represents a practical application of AI on smartphones, addressing a genuine user need. This contrasts with most mobile AI implementations, which users largely ignore as unnecessary bloatware.Read more â
Engadget...Samsung Galaxy S26 vs. Galaxy S25: Whatâs changed and which one should you buy?Samsung's Galaxy S26 represents an incremental update to the S25, featuring a larger 4,300mAh battery, expanded base storage to 256GB, and enhanced Galaxy AI capabilities including improved document scanning and proactive assistant features. The phone maintains the same core design, display, and camera hardware as its predecessor with the primary improvements in AI software and security enhancements. Starting at $899.99, the S26 offers better long-term value for new buyers due to newer software and extended update support, though current S25 owners will find the upgrades modest.Read more â
Engadget...Samsung Galaxy S26 vs. S26+ vs. S26 Ultra: Comparing the three new phonesSamsung unveiled the Galaxy S26 lineup, emphasizing AI features and camera upgrades with Qualcomm's Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 for Galaxy chip and Android 16. The new phones include enhanced Galaxy AI features like Now Brief and upgraded Circle to Search, positioning them as more intelligent assistants. The Ultra model leads with advanced camera systems, faster charging speeds, and new Privacy Display technology, with sales beginning March 11.Read more â
Engadget...How to pre-order the Samsung Galaxy S26 phones and Galaxy Buds 4Samsung's Galaxy S26 lineup introduces the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 processor, Super Fast Charging 3.0 technology up to 60W, and improved camera apertures for enhanced low-light performance. The Galaxy S26+ and base S26 see price increases to $1,100 and $900 respectively, while the Ultra maintains $1,300. The redesigned Galaxy Buds 4 Pro feature head gesture control and a distinct new aesthetic at $250.Read more â
CNET...Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra vs. Apple iPhone 17 Pro Max: All Specs ComparedSamsung unveiled the Galaxy S26 Ultra ($1,300) with notable upgrades including a Privacy Display feature that restricts viewing angles, improved thermal cooling for sustained performance, and enhanced cameras. The flagship directly competes with Apple's iPhone 17 Pro Max ($1,199), with both offering premium specifications but distinct design philosophies and features.Read more â
CNET...Galaxy S26 Ultra Hands-On: Slimmer, Lighter and Loaded With UpgradesSamsung's Galaxy S26 Ultra delivers a slimmer, lighter flagship smartphone while introducing hardware-based Privacy Display technology and advanced AI features like call screening with scam detection. The device maintains its $1,300 price point and features improvements in camera capabilities with larger apertures, 60-watt fast charging, and enhanced thermal management. The phone integrates multiple AI partners including Gemini, Perplexity, and Google's Circle to Search, positioning it as a central hub for Samsung's expanding AI ecosystem.Read more â
CNET...Samsung Galaxy Buds 4 Pro Review: Their New Look and Improved Sound Made Me SmileSamsung released the Galaxy Buds 4 Pro with refined metal blade-like stems, offering improved sound clarity, bass extension, and adaptive noise canceling compared to the previous generation. While achieving strong overall performance and earning CNET Editors' Choice, they remain slightly behind leading competitors like Apple and Sony in noise cancellation. The buds maintain the same stem design from the Buds 3 Pro, fit more comfortably, and support Bluetooth 6.1 with enhanced voice-calling capabilities.Read more â
Gizmodo...Samsungâs Galaxy S26 Phones Are Light On Hardware Upgrades, Heavy on AISamsung unveiled the Galaxy S26 series, offering incremental hardware upgrades highlighted by a new Privacy Display feature on the Ultra model that allows users to darken screen content to prevent shoulder surfing. While the lineup features a faster Snapdragon processor and improved charging speeds, Samsung imposed a $100 price increase on the base and Plus models.Read more â
Gizmodo...How the Targaryens of âA Knight of the Seven Kingdomsâ Connect to âHouse of the Dragonâ and âGame of ThronesâThis guide traces the Targaryen family genealogy across multiple Game of Thrones and House of the Dragon installments, explaining how characters from different shows and books are connected through generations. It provides essential context for understanding character relationships and succession events that drive the narrative across the franchise.Read more â
Engadget...Google announces new Android AI features coming to the Galaxy S26 and Pixel 10 seriesGoogle introduced a suite of Gemini-powered features to Android, including multi-step task automation for services like rideshare and grocery shopping, along with enhanced Circle to Search capabilities. The update adds on-device scam detection to phone calls and messages using AI to identify suspicious speech patterns. These features are rolling out to Pixel 10 and Galaxy S26 devices across select markets.Read more â
Gizmodo...Samsungâs Galaxy Buds 4 and 4 Pro Change Up the Look Big TimeSamsung has launched the Galaxy Buds 4 and 4 Pro with redesigned form factors and enhanced audio capabilities, featuring new speaker drivers with improved bass and soundstage, along with upgraded microphone arrays for better call quality. The Galaxy Buds 4 Pro introduces adaptive ANC 2.0 with conversation awareness, while the standard Galaxy Buds 4 adopts an open-style design similar to AirPods 4, priced at $179 and $249 respectively.Read more â
Engadget...Samsung Galaxy S26 hands-on: A lot more of the same for a little more moneySamsung announced the Galaxy S26 and S26+ with enhanced AI-powered camera and video features, including Auto Framing and expanded Audio Eraser capabilities across streaming platforms. While maintaining similar design and camera specifications to predecessors, the phones introduce new computational photography improvements and AI-assisted editing tools at higher price points. Launching March 11th, the devices use Snapdragon 8 Elite in the US and Exynos 2600 in Europe.Read more â
The Verge...Gemini is getting its first agentic capabilitiesGoogle is introducing task automation for Gemini AI, enabling the assistant to autonomously complete actions like booking rides and ordering food on behalf of users across Pixel 10 and Samsung Galaxy S26 devices. Using AI reasoning capabilities, Gemini navigates app interfaces to execute tasks end-to-end while allowing users to monitor and intervene as needed. This represents a significant step toward Android's vision of functioning as an "intelligence system" rather than just an operating system.Read more â
The Verge...The Galaxy S26 and S26 Plus are more of the same for more moneyThere's a cool new hardware feature debuting at Samsung's annual Unpacked event - but you won't find it on the Galaxy S26 or S26 Plus. While the Ultra model gets a new Privacy Display and avoids a price hike, Samsung's base models are largely software updates that cost more than the outgoing models. Don't get […]Read more â
The Verge...Iâm super impressed with the Galaxy S26 Ultraâs new Privacy DisplayThe Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra introduces a Privacy Display that restricts screen viewing angles to prevent shoulder-surfing, with customizable settings for notifications and specific apps. While hardware upgrades are modestâfeaturing a slimmer design, brighter camera lenses, and aluminum constructionâthe device gains significant AI capabilities including generative photo editing and an agentic Google Gemini assistant. The phone maintains its $1299 price point despite supply chain challenges and tariffs.Read more â
The Verge...Samsungâs still chasing the AirPods with its new Galaxy Buds 4 and Buds 4 ProSamsung announced the Galaxy Buds 4 and Galaxy Buds 4 Pro with enhanced audio drivers, improved active noise canceling with a 3dB increase, and better battery life, priced competitively at $179 and $249 respectively. The Pro model features a redesigned two-way speaker system with a 20 percent larger woofer delivering 50 percent less distortion. With preorders starting February 25 and availability on March 11, the buds offer optimized features for Galaxy device users while maintaining cross-platform compatibility.Read more â
TechCrunch...Gemini can now automate some multi-step tasks on AndroidGoogle unveiled new Gemini AI-powered task automation features on Android, enabling users to offload multi-step activities such as ordering food and rideshare rides directly through the AI assistant. The beta feature is currently limited to select apps and devices including Pixel 10 and Samsung Galaxy S26 series in the U.S. and Korea. Google also expanded scam detection capabilities and enhanced its Circle to Search functionality with improved object recognition.Read more â
Engadget...Samsung's redesigned Galaxy Buds 4 lineup has retooled sound, improved ANC and new featuresSamsung unveiled the Galaxy Buds 4 and Galaxy Buds 4 Pro with redesigned form factors optimized through extensive ear data analysis and enhanced active noise cancellation. The Pro model features new head gesture controls for calls and voice assistants, wider drivers for improved audio quality, and Siren Detect functionality. Both models support 24bit/96kHz audio and integrate with multiple AI assistants including Bixby, Gemini, and Perplexity.Read more â
Engadget...Samsung's Galaxy S26 Ultra offers a subtle set of hardware improvementsSamsung unveiled the Galaxy S26 Ultra, featuring a new Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 processor, innovative privacy-focused display technology, and improved camera apertures for enhanced low-light performance. The flagship smartphone integrates Perplexity as a system-level AI assistant while maintaining Google Gemini compatibility, launching at $1,300 with availability on March 11.Read more â
Engadget...Everything announced at Samsung Unpacked: Galaxy S26 lineup and moreSamsung unveiled the Galaxy S26 lineup with prices up $100 from predecessors, introducing the Privacy Display on the Ultra model and enhanced AI features including Perplexity integration and improved Gemini capabilities. The announcement also included redesigned Galaxy Buds 4 with improved audio quality and active noise cancellation. All devices become available March 11 with preorders opening today.Read more â
Engadget...Google's Circle to Search can now identify multiple objects in an imageGoogle has enhanced Circle to Search with Gemini 3 to identify and analyze multiple objects simultaneously within images, overcoming previous single-object limitations. The update introduces virtual try-on visualization for clothing and the ability to reason about relationships between different objects, such as explaining how fish species coexist in a coral reef. The improved feature is rolling out to Galaxy S26 and Pixel 10 devices before expanding to other Android phones.Read more â
Engadget...Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra hands-on: Meaningful tweaks plus a slick new Privacy DisplaySamsung's Galaxy S26 Ultra maintains its $1,300 price while delivering meaningful hardware improvements, including wider camera apertures for enhanced low-light performance, faster 60W charging, and a privacy-focused display feature. The refined design with rounder corners and Armor Aluminum chassis positions it as a stronger value proposition than its predecessor. AI features are largely shared with other S26 models rather than exclusive to the Ultra variant.Read more â
Engadget...Samsung's S26 and S26+ offer familiar designs, Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 chips and new software featuresSamsung unveiled the S26 and S26+ phones at its Unpacked event, featuring iterative design upgrades with larger displays and batteries. The phones emphasize software and AI enhancements, including an Object Aware Engine for superior portrait modes and machine learning-powered video stabilization with 360-degree horizontal lock. Priced at $899 and $1,099 respectively, the devices feature Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 processors in North America and Japan, with availability starting March 11.Read more â
CNET...The Galaxy S26 and S26 Plus Cost $100 More and Have 'AI All Over the Place'Samsung announced the Galaxy S26, S26 Plus, and S26 Ultra with advanced Galaxy AI features and new Snapdragon processors, positioning AI as a practical tool for everyday tasks like voice-controlled app automation and intelligent photo editing. The phones face a $100 price increase compared to the previous generation, with the base model starting at $900, though Samsung offers preorder deals to offset the cost. These improvements demonstrate Samsung's commitment to making AI adoption more appealing to skeptical consumers.Read more â
Gizmodo...Capybara Simulator Is the Perfect Game to Tide You Over Until GTA 6 Wrecks CivilizationCapybara Simulator is an indie game where players relax as a capybara in a meditative, minimalist experience designed around doing nothing and enjoying calm. The game capitalizes on a market gap created by Grand Theft Auto 6's delays while offering escapism as an alternative to fast-paced, action-heavy titles.Read more â
TechCrunch...OpenAI COO says ads will be âan iterative processâOpenAI is rolling out ads to free and Go tier ChatGPT users, starting with the United States market. The company plans an iterative approach focused on maintaining user privacy and trust while positioning ads as potentially beneficial to the user experience. The rollout aims to sustain free access to ChatGPT while generating revenue amid competition from rivals like Anthropic.Read more â
CNET...Best Desks of 2026: Iâve Spent Nearly 4,000 Hours Testing Desks. These Are the Ones You WantCNET has tested and reviewed multiple desk options including gaming, standing, and specialty desks, providing expert recommendations based on specific use cases such as work, gaming, and crafting. The review highlights top choices like the SecretLab Magnus Pro XL for gamers and the Branch standing desk for office environments, with detailed pros and cons for each product to help consumers find the best fit for their needs.Read more â
CNET...Galaxy Unpacked 2026 Live Updates: Samsung's S26 Reveal Is ImminentSamsung will launch the Galaxy S26 series on Wednesday at its Galaxy Unpacked event in San Francisco, introducing the S26, S26 Plus, and S26 Ultra as successors to the S25 lineup. The timing, one week before Mobile World Congress, positions Samsung to establish the direction for premium Android flagships in 2026.Read more â
CNET...Best Standing Desks of 2026CNET reviews leading standing desk models for 2026, ranging from budget-friendly options like the Ikea Trotten to premium choices like the Uplift V3, with guidance on electric versus manual mechanisms. Standing desks combat sedentary lifestyle effects by reducing back and neck pain while improving productivity, supported by research showing health benefits when users alternate between sitting and standing positions.Read more â
Engadget...Hacker used Anthropic's Claude chatbot to attack multiple government agencies in MexicoA hacker exploited Anthropic's Claude chatbot to attack Mexican government agencies, stealing 150GB of sensitive data including taxpayer records and employee credentials. The attacker used Claude to identify vulnerabilities, generate exploit scripts, and automate data theft by bypassing the chatbot's safety guardrails over a month-long campaign beginning in December. Anthropic has disrupted the activity and banned involved accounts, while investigations suggest the hacker may be affiliated with a foreign government.Read more â
Gizmodo...Want to Know If Glassholes Are Using Smart Glasses Near You? Thereâs an App for ThatA new smartphone app called Nearby Glasses detects smart glasses through Bluetooth signals to alert users when they may be in the presence of recording devices like Meta's Ray-Ban glasses. This addresses growing privacy concerns as smart glasses become increasingly mainstream and are used to record people without consent. Meta and other companies are also developing enhanced features such as facial recognition capabilities that could further amplify surveillance risks.Read more â
Engadget...Amazon abandons open-world racing game by former Forza Horizon devsAmazon Game Studios has ended its publishing agreement with Maverick Games, a studio founded by ex-Forza Horizon developers, as part of a strategic shift in gaming priorities. The studio's untitled open-world racing game remains in development and is now seeking alternative publishing partners. This reflects Amazon's broader struggles in the gaming industry, following the underperformance of previous titles like Crucible and the planned shutdown of New World.Read more â
CNET...Champions League Playoff Soccer: Stream PSG vs. Monaco Live From AnywherePSG will face Monaco in the second leg of their UEFA Champions League playoff on Wednesday, looking to advance after securing a 3-2 first leg victory away. The match will be available on Paramount Plus in the US and other streaming services globally. Kickoff is scheduled for 3 p.m. ET.Read more â
CNET...Champions League Playoff Soccer: Livestream Real Madrid vs. Benfica From AnywhereReal Madrid faces Benfica in a UEFA Champions League knockout playoff second leg on Wednesday, available to stream on Paramount Plus in the US along with other regional broadcasters. The article provides viewing information across multiple countries and explains how to use VPNs to access content if facing blackout restrictions.Read more â
Gizmodo...The Teaser for Jane Schoenbrunâs New Horror Movie Will Melt Your MindJane Schoenbrun's latest horror film, 'Teenage Sex and Death at Camp Miasma,' stars Hannah Einbinder and Gillian Anderson in a reimagined slasher franchise story. Described as a 'new kind of horror remake,' the film explores themes of trans identity and queer horror through the narrative of two women entangled in a world of desire, fear, and delirium. The film releases August 7.Read more â
Engadget...ASUS ProArt GoPro Edition PX13 review: An incredible if pricy Windows creator laptopASUS released the ProArt GoPro Edition PX13, a premium creator laptop combining the ProArt line with GoPro's branding and rugged durability features. Powered by AMD Ryzen AI Max+ 395 processor with 128GB unified memory and OLED touchscreen, it delivers strong performance for video editing and gaming with excellent 11+ hour battery life. At $3,000, it competes with high-end MacBook Pro models but falls short in overall performance and usability, positioning it as the best Windows option for creators prioritizing specifications over ecosystem cohesion.Read more â
The Verge...Live: Samsung unveils new Galaxy phonesSamsung is unveiling its Galaxy S26 series smartphones at an event in San Francisco, with industry observers interested in how RAM market conditions have affected pricing and new AI features. The announcement focuses on flagship smartphone capabilities and market positioning.Read more â
The Verge...Samsung Unpacked 2026: live updates from the Galaxy S26 announcement eventSamsung unveiled the Galaxy S26 series with integrated AI features including Perplexity support and multi-agent ecosystem capabilities, alongside new Qi2 wireless charging accessories. The announcement highlights Samsung's strategy to embed AI across its device ecosystem, from photography to voice assistance, while raising concerns about AI-generated content quality in the company's marketing materials.Read more â
TechCrunch...OpenClaw creatorâs advice to AI builders is to be more playful and allow yourself time to improvePeter Steinberger, an OpenAI-hired developer of the viral AI agent OpenClaw, shares insights on building with AI technology, emphasizing exploration, playfulness, and treating AI coding as a learnable skill rather than immediate expertise. His advice challenges the perception that AI will displace skilled builders, noting that problem-solvers and creative developers will be in greater demand than ever as the technology matures.Read more â
Gizmodo...Scientists Just Caught Trees Firing Off Ultraviolet Sparkles During ThunderstormsResearchers from Penn State University documented coronaeâelectrical discharges that glow on tree leavesâfor the first time during actual thunderstorms using a modified minivan equipped with specialized sensors and a UV camera. The study confirms a phenomenon theorized for nearly a century and reveals that coronae are far more common than expected, with dozens observed in individual storms. This discovery provides concrete evidence that natural electrical light shows occur regularly on treetops during thunderstorms worldwide.Read more â
CNET...Expert-Approved Continuous Glucose Monitors to Track Your Glucose DailyThis article reviews continuous glucose monitors, wearable devices that track blood sugar levels throughout the day via smartphone apps. The guide compares both prescription-required and over-the-counter options like Dexcom G6, Stelo, Abbott Freestyle Libre 3 Plus, and Guardian Connect, evaluating their features, pricing, and sensor durability. These devices enable diabetes management and help users understand how diet, stress, and activity influence glucose levels.Read more â
CNET...Turns Out Perplexity Might Be the Sleeper Feature on Samsung's Rumored Galaxy S26Samsung's Galaxy S26 phones will deeply integrate Perplexity's AI agent through its Sonar API, making Perplexity the first third-party AI company to achieve parity with Google's Gemini on a major mobile OS. This integration across multiple Samsung apps and browser represents a strategic shift toward user choice in mobile AI assistants, differentiating Samsung from competitors.Read more â
Gizmodo...Artemis 2 Crew Watches as Trump Snubs Moon Mission in State of the Union AddressPresident Trump failed to mention NASA's Artemis 2 mission during his State of the Union address, despite the four astronauts selected for this critical lunar mission sitting in the audience. This omission represents a missed opportunity to build public support for the program, which is essential for securing continued taxpayer funding and maintaining U.S. space leadership against Chinese competition.Read more â
The Verge...Spotify's Smart Reorder treats your playlists like a DJ setSpotify has launched 'Smart Reorder,' an automated feature that organizes playlists by beats per minute and musical key to create optimal song flow, functioning as an AI-powered DJ for Premium subscribers. This addition represents Spotify's expanding use of AI-assisted tools for music curation, building on recent features like song transitions and a playlist chatbot.Read more â
Gizmodo...Come Face to Face With the Best Nature Photography of the YearThe World Nature Photographer of the Year competition features award-winning images capturing diverse wildlife and ecosystems, including a rare white humpback whale calf whose recovery demonstrates successful conservation efforts. The photographs showcase the intricate relationships between animals and their environments, while also highlighting human-nature interactions and environmental challenges such as climate change impacts on polar bear habitats. The collection celebrates nature in all its formsâbeautiful, dramatic, and sometimes revealing the tension between human activity and wildlife preservation.Read more â
Gizmodo...George R.R. Martin Wanted âKnight of the Seven Kingdomsâ to Keep Dunkâs Knight Status as Vague as PossibleThe showrunner of A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms confirms that the ambiguity surrounding whether protagonist Dunk was actually knighted is intentional, directly requested by George R.R. Martin. This narrative uncertainty serves as the foundation for exploring what truly defines a knight beyond the title itself.Read more â
TechCrunch...Have hard-won scaling lessons to share? Take the stage at TechCrunch Founder Summit 2026TechCrunch Founder Summit 2026 will convene 1,000+ founders and investors on June 9 in Boston for candid roundtable discussions led by experienced startup operators sharing scaling strategies. Speaking opportunities provide direct ecosystem access, premium event entry, and brand positioning amplification through TechCrunch's editorial and social channels, with applications closing April 17.Read more â
CNET...The Best Leak Detectors of 2026: Catch Your Frozen Pipes Before They BurstCNET reviews smart water leak detectors, recommending various models for home protection against water damage and pipes freezing. The article compares features including temperature detection, wireless range, battery life, and hub requirements to help homeowners select the best detector for their specific needs.Read more â
TechCrunch...About 12% of U.S. teens turn to AI for emotional support or adviceA Pew Research Center report reveals that American teenagers are increasingly using AI chatbots, with 57% using them for information searches and 54% for schoolwork assistance. While some teens rely on chatbots for emotional support and casual conversation, mental health professionals warn that these tools can be isolating and psychologically harmful. The findings highlight a gap between teen usage (64%) and parental awareness (51%), with most parents comfortable with informational uses but concerned about emotional support applications.Read more â
CNET...This New High-Speed Oven Cooks a Chicken in 30 Minutes. Here's How It WorksSharp's Celerity High-Speed Oven combines convection, microwave, and infrared heat to cook a whole chicken in 30 minutes, three times faster than standard convection ovens and quicker than air fryers. The $4,000 built-in appliance features nine cooking modes, including air fry, with intelligent cooking programs tested by culinary experts and smart technology like moisture sensors and a built-in camera to prevent overcooked food. This innovation addresses consumer demand for faster home cooking without sacrificing food quality.Read more â
The Verge...Fanttikâs foldable V10 Apex vacuum is on sale for the lowest price weâve seenThe Verge highlights multiple tech product deals including the Fanttik Fold V10 Apex handheld vacuum reduced to $85.49 from $149.99, a Belkin BoostCharge Pro 3-in-1 wireless charging stand at $65.99, and PlayStation 5's Astro Bot game at $32.99. These offers provide significant savings on popular consumer electronics and gaming products.Read more â
TechCrunch...Americans now listen to podcasts more often than talk radio, study showsPodcasts have surpassed AM/FM spoken word radio as the dominant medium for audio content in the United States, capturing 40% of listening time compared to 39% for radio. The shift is fueled by rapid growth in video podcasts, with 85% of weekly listeners consuming podcasts with video components and major platforms like Netflix and YouTube significantly expanding their podcast offerings. This trend reflects evolving consumer preferences, with an estimated 115 million weekly podcast listeners in the U.S. consuming content across both audio and video formats.Read more â
The Verge...Amazon's AGI lab leader is leavingDavid Luan, head of Amazon's San Francisco AI lab, is departing after less than two years to focus entirely on advancing AI capabilities and AGI development. His departure highlights Amazon's struggles to compete in the AI race, with employees reportedly calling its AI products inferior to competitors. Luan led development of Amazon's Nova AI models and the Nova Act agent that was recently integrated into Alexa Plus.Read more â
Gizmodo...Things Wonât Change for Xbox Nearly as Much as You ThinkPhil Spencer retired as longtime Xbox head, with new CEO Asha Sharma pledging to restore Xbox's 'renegade spirit' through quality games and multi-device gaming across PC, mobile, and cloud. Despite leadership changes, Xbox's next-generation console hardware design is largely finalized with an expected 2027 launch, and major strategic shifts remain unlikely in the near term. The transition comes as Xbox faces significant financial challenges and declining hardware and software sales.Read more â
The Verge...We played Resident Evil Requiem, ask us anythingResident Evil Requiem launches February 27th as the first new mainline Resident Evil game since 2021, combining Resident Evil 4's action-focused gameplay with Resident Evil 7's first-person horror perspective. The hybrid approach merges both gameplay styles to deliver a comprehensive survival horror experience. The game is optimized for Nintendo Switch 2, marking a significant platform release.Read more â
Gizmodo...Alex Kurtzman Learned to Put the Stars of âStarfleet Academyâ in Danger From an Unlikely SourceStar Trek: Starfleet Academy has begun killing main characters to heighten stakes, drawing inspiration from the medical drama Grey's Anatomy. The show adopts a 'teaching hospital' model where cadets learn through high-risk field missions aboard a starship rather than classroom-only training. This approach allows the series to present classic Star Trek scenarios with genuine danger to its young cast.Read more â
CNET...Resident Evil Requiem Review: Classic Survival Horror With Modern ActionResident Evil Requiem balances horror and action through dual protagonists with contrasting playstylesâGrace's stealthy first-person horror sections versus Leon's third-person action sequences. The game successfully delivers both the survival horror and power fantasy the series is known for, with meaningful lore centered on Raccoon City, though it lacks significant replay value beyond two endings and difficulty modes.Read more â
The Verge...Resident Evil Requiem is the best of both terrifying worldsResident Evil Requiem combines first-person horror and third-person action gameplay through two playable charactersâFBI analyst Grace Ashcroft and returning hero Leon S. Kennedyâeach embodying different playstyles and perspectives. The game seamlessly shifts between perspectives and gameplay tones, representing a technical achievement in blending previous Resident Evil entries into a cohesive 11-hour experience launching on February 27th across PS5, Xbox, Switch 2, and PC.Read more â
The Verge...Resident Evil Requiem is still scary as hell on the Switch 2Resident Evil Requiem demonstrates the Switch 2's viability as a platform for major third-party titles, delivering solid functional performance despite visual compromises including blurry textures and physics glitches. The game's successful cross-platform launch signals promise for Nintendo's console in attracting blockbuster releases, though visual fidelity remains a tradeoff offset by the system's portability advantages.Read more â
TechCrunch...3 days left: Save up to $680 on your TechCrunch Disrupt 2026 ticketTechCrunch Disrupt 2026 (October 13-15, San Francisco) brings together 10,000+ founders, operators, and investors for deal-making and industry insights. The event features 200 startup pitches competing for $100,000 in equity-free funding, 300+ exhibitors, and direct access to venture capitalists. Super Early Bird pricing ends February 27, 2026.Read more â
CNET...Dreaming of a Touchscreen MacBook? You'd Better Be a Fan of Apple's Dynamic IslandApple is developing touchscreen MacBook Pro models expected in fall 2026, featuring Dynamic Islandâa pill-shaped interface bringing iPhone-style alerts and controls to the laptop screen. The 14- and 16-inch models will maintain their physical keyboard and trackpad while adding touch interactions for scrolling, pinching, and gesture-based controls. This represents Apple's first major advancement in MacBook screen interaction, building on the notch design introduced in 2017.Read more â
TechCrunch...US tells diplomats to lobby against foreign data sovereignty lawsThe Trump administration has instructed U.S. diplomats to oppose global data sovereignty laws, arguing they hinder AI advancement and disrupt international data flows. This policy aims to protect American tech companies' ability to transfer and process foreign citizens' data, contrasting with the EU's regulatory approach through laws like GDPR and the AI Act.Read more â
Gizmodo...I Want My Remains Kept Inside Spotify and Liquid Deathâs Speaker UrnSpotify and Liquid Death launched the Eternal Playlist Speaker, a $495 limited-edition Bluetooth speaker designed to resemble a cremation urn, with only 150 units available. This novelty product prioritizes its morbid aesthetic over sound quality, continuing an industry trend of increasingly absurd marketing gimmicks. The speaker features Bluetooth connectivity, USB-C charging, and a five-unit purchase limit per customer.Read more â
The Verge...Xiaomi's magnetic power bank is incredibly thinXiaomi has unveiled an UltraThin Magnetic Power Bank with a 5,000mAh battery measuring just 6mm thick, thinner than both the iPhone 17 and Apple's MagSafe battery. The device supports 15W wireless charging and 22.5W USB-C charging for secondary devices while adding only 98 grams of weight, making it practical for daily pocket carry. Priced at approximately $49-91 USD depending on region, it offers a compact alternative to larger power banks for mobile device charging.Read more â
The Verge...Does Anthropic think Claude is alive? Define âaliveâAnthropic is publicly maintaining uncertainty about whether Claude could be conscious, declining to rule out the possibility unlike most other major AI companies. The company's precautionary approach raises concerns about potential harms, including whether its messaging responsibly addresses risks of users becoming emotionally dependent on AI they believe is sentient. This reflects ongoing scientific uncertainty about AI consciousness and questions about corporate responsibility in AI development.Read more â
The Verge...Apple brings age verification to UK users in iOS 26.4 betaApple is bringing age verification to the UK, as the latest iOS 26.4 beta prompts users to verify that they're over 18 following installation. As shown in screenshots posted to Reddit, Apple says users who don't confirm their age "will not be able to download and purchase apps or make in-app purchases." In one of […]Read more â
CNET...The Best Video Doorbells of 2026 That Act as Front Door GuardiansCNET provides a comprehensive buying guide for video doorbell cameras, comparing popular models from brands including Arlo, Google Nest, Ring, Blink, Lorex, and Tapo. The guide evaluates key features such as resolution, smart home compatibility, AI detection capabilities, video storage options, and subscription costs. Consumers can use this analysis to select a doorbell that meets their security needs and budget constraints.Read more â
CNET...Adobe's Still All In on AI. Next Up: The One-Click Tool That Edits Videos for YouAdobe launched Quick Cut, an AI tool within Firefly video editor that automatically generates rough cuts from raw video footage, streamlining the initial editing process for content creators. The tool processes footage and user prompts to create first drafts in minutes, with creators responsible for final refinements and branding. This release reflects Adobe's broader 2026 strategy of embedding AI into creative workflows to boost productivity without sacrificing creator control.Read more â
CNET...TextNow Adds eSIM Option for Immediate Unlimited Phone Data AccessTextNow has introduced an eSIM option that enables instant cellular data activation directly through its app, eliminating the wait and cost of physical SIM cards. The service defaults to a free plan supporting unlimited talk and text for select apps, with paid options ranging from $3 daily to $36 monthly. The company also announced network infrastructure improvements to enhance coverage and connectivity.Read more â
CNET...55 of the Best TV Shows on Netflix That Will Keep You EntertainedNetflix has published a curated guide of top shows to help viewers navigate its vast library and overcome decision fatigue. The article prominently features Season 3 of spy thriller The Night Agent, arriving this week, alongside acclaimed series like Stranger Things, The Crown, and Gilmore Girls. The recommendation aims to streamline the viewing experience and highlight both flagship classics and overlooked original content.Read more â
Gizmodo...Sony Wants to Rework Its âSpider-Manâ Spinoff PlansHollywood studios announce multiple major entertainment projects including Sony's reboot of Spider-Man spinoff films, adaptations like animated Hilo, and streaming series developments. Key updates include casting news for DC Universe Batman, TimothĂŠe Chalamet's Dune 3 performance update, and renewals such as Robin Hood season 2, reflecting continued industry investment in franchise reboots and original content across major studios.Read more â
The Verge...You can now make Alexaâs AI personality more friendly, blunt, or chilled outAmazon has launched three new voice personality stylesâBrief, Chill, and Sweetâfor Alexa Plus users in the United States. These customization options allow premium Alexa subscribers to personalize their voice assistant's communication style.Read more â
The Verge...Adobeâs new AI video editing tool stitches clips into a first draftAdobe is launching Quick Cut, an AI-powered feature for its Firefly video editor that automatically assembles video clips into a first rough cut based on text prompts and user input. The tool reduces tedious manual editing labor, allowing creators to quickly move from raw footage to an editable draft they can refine. This accelerates the initial assembly process while preserving full creative control for subsequent refinements.Read more â
TechCrunch...Harbinger acquires autonomous driving company Phantom AIElectric trucking startup Harbinger acquired autonomous driving software company Phantom AI to vertically integrate advanced driver assistance technology and create new revenue streams. The acquisition immediately secured a major customer with ZF Group licensing the technology for passenger car markets. The integration will enhance Harbinger's medium-duty electric trucks with critical safety features like automatic emergency braking and lane keeping assistance.Read more â
TechCrunch...Jiraâs latest update allows AI agents and humans to work side by sideAtlassian launched 'agents in Jira,' enabling users to assign, manage, and track AI agents alongside human team members from a unified dashboard. This feature aims to improve enterprise productivity by providing visibility into both human and AI work, helping organizations determine optimal AI deployment and return on investment while reducing operational complexity.Read more â
TechCrunch...Y Combinator grad and AI insurance brokerage Harper raises $47MDakotah Rice has launched Harper, an AI-native insurance brokerage that raised $46.8 million in a combined Series A and seed round. The company uses AI to automate traditional insurance workflows, enabling it to process over 1,000 customers monthly compared to 20-30 for traditional brokerages. Harper targets small to mid-sized businesses and has already acquired more than 5,000 customers since launching in 2024.Read more â
TechCrunch...Amazonâs AI-powered Alexa+ gets new personality optionsAmazon launched three customizable personality styles for Alexa+ (Brief, Chill, and Sweet) that adjust the AI assistant's tone and communication style based on five personality dimensions. The feature responds to user demand for controlling AI behavior, though it reflects broader industry concerns about chatbot personality fostering unhealthy user dependency. Amazon notes additional personality styles are planned for future release.Read more â
TechCrunch...Adobe Fireflyâs video editor can now automatically create a first draft from footageAdobe's new Quick Cut feature in Firefly uses AI to automatically edit video footage and B-roll into a first draft based on natural language descriptions. The tool automates repetitive editing tasks like clip selection and transition placement, allowing creators and marketers to focus on creative refinement. Users can customize settings like aspect ratio and pacing through prompts, though final videos still require manual adjustments.Read more â
Engadget...Amazon introduces three personality styles for Alexa+Amazon has launched three customizable personality styles for Alexa+ usersâBrief, Chill, and Sweetâallowing users to tailor the AI assistant's communication style to their preferences. The personalities are based on five adjustable metrics including expressiveness, formality, and humor, with Amazon planning to introduce additional combinations in the future. Users can change personalities through the Alexa app or voice commands.Read more â
Engadget...Spotify can reorder your playlists by BPM and keySpotify is launching a Smart Reorder feature for Premium users that automatically rearranges playlist tracks based on their musical key and BPM to create seamless transitions between songs. The feature builds on Spotify's existing custom transitions capability introduced last year, enabling users to create uninterrupted listening experiences with a single tap. Users can access the feature by selecting Mix, Edit, and then Smart Reorder within any playlist.Read more â
The Verge...Amazon continues retreat from games by ending publishing deal for open-world racerAmazon has ended its publishing partnership with Maverick Games for an upcoming open-world racing title, reflecting the company's continued pullback from gaming investments. The studio, composed of former Forza developers, will continue development while seeking alternative publishers. This move highlights Amazon's selective approach to gaming, maintaining only key franchises like Tomb Raider while reducing broader portfolio commitments.Read more â
TechCrunch...Khoslaâs Keith Rabois backs Comp, which wants to bolster HR teams with AIComp, a Brazilian HR tech startup co-founded by Christophe Gerlach and Pedro Bobrow, raised a $17.25 million Series A led by Khosla Ventures to expand its AI-powered HR software platform. The startup combines artificial intelligence with forward-deployed HR experts to handle recruiting, compensation policies, and performance reviews, positioning itself as an alternative to traditional consultancies like Mercer and Willis Towers Watson. With clients including Nubank and other Brazilian unicorns, Comp plans to expand globally as it develops toward fully autonomous AI agents.Read more â
CNET...Totoâs New Toilet Washes Its Own Rim So You Donât Have ToToto introduced the Aurora Washlet Plus S7A, an advanced self-cleaning toilet featuring a dual-valve Integravity System that increases bowl coverage by five times compared to standard toilets. The toilet combines rim wash and siphon-jet technology with an integrated bidet using electrolyzed water for auto-cleaning, while maintaining water efficiency of 1-1.28 gallons per flushâbelow the EPA standard of 1.6 gallons.Read more â
Gizmodo...Behold the Haunting Gaze of C-3POâs Disembodied Head From âThe Empire Strikes BackâPropstore is auctioning a rare C-3PO head from The Empire Strikes Back, estimated at $350,000-$700,000, described as the only known example from the film to reach the collector market. Also included in the sale is Luke's lightsaber hilt from The Force Awakens, estimated at $50,000-$100,000, with a public preview on March 11 in Beverly Hills and bidding commencing March 25.Read more â
Engadget...Uber previews its Dubai air taxi serviceUber is launching Uber Air, an app-based air taxi service using Joby Aviation's electric aircraft, beginning service in Dubai this year with expansion planned for New York, Los Angeles, and international markets. The electric air taxis accommodate up to four passengers, travel at speeds up to 200 mph, and are priced competitively with Uber Black service. This represents a major commercial milestone for urban air mobility technology.Read more â
CNET...How to Handle Complex Investment Income on Your Taxes This YearIndividuals earning income from multiple sources must implement proactive tax planning and maintain meticulous recordkeeping to reduce tax liability and avoid IRS penalties. The article explains key tax concepts including capital gains treatment, pass-through entities, real estate investments, and net investment income tax, providing strategies to minimize tax burden across complex income streams.Read more â
Gizmodo...Denver Announces Data Center Moratorium as Opposition Picks Up Steam Around the CountryDenver Mayor Mike Johnston announced a temporary moratorium on new data center development to review policies around energy use, water consumption, and affordability while addressing environmental concerns and societal impacts of AI development. The moratorium, expected to last several months, reflects growing scrutiny of data centers' massive energy demands and water usage, with multiple states considering similar restrictions. The move comes amid calls for federal oversight and concerns about the unchecked growth of AI infrastructure.Read more â
CNET...Ricoh GR IV Review: Peak Pocket Photos to Potentially Outperform Your PhoneThe GR IV is a modest update to a popular compact camera designed for travel and street photography. This refined version maintains the camera's core appeal as a portable solution for photographers seeking a reliable, lightweight option for on-the-go shooting.Read more â
CNET...Apple TV: 15 Best Sci-Fi Shows You Should Stream Right NowApple TV's streaming service contains numerous acclaimed but underrated sci-fi shows including Severance, For All Mankind, and Dark Matter that many viewers have never discovered. The platform's minimal marketing strategy makes it difficult to find quality content without guidance like CNET's curated sci-fi show recommendations.Read more â
CNET...Why Is Printer Ink So Expensive?Printer manufacturers employ the 'razor-and-blades' business model, selling hardware at a loss while profiting from expensive proprietary ink cartridges that lock consumers into their ecosystems. Embedded chipsets and intellectual property protections prevent third-party alternatives and competition, keeping prices elevated. Consumers can reduce costs through high-yield cartridges, refillable tanks, subscription programs, or laser printers.Read more â
CNET...TCL X11L TV Hands-On: Huge Super Quantum Dot TV Is a Lot of Fun, but It's ExpensiveTCL has introduced the X11L TV featuring Super Quantum Dot MiniLED technology, achieving exceptional brightness up to 10,000 nits and high color saturation across the BT2020 color space. The TV delivers strong performance for gaming, streaming, and high-end video content with minimal input lag, though real-world color reproduction reached 91.77% of promised specifications. At a starting price of $7,000, the X11L positions itself as a premium option but faces pricing challenges against comparable competitors offering strong performance at lower costs.Read more â
CNET...Ricoh GR IV Review: Peak Pocket Photos to Potentially Outperform Your PhoneThe GR IV is a minor update to a popular compact camera designed for travel and street photography. The camera maintains its appeal as a portable, capable device for photography enthusiasts.Read more â
Gizmodo...The First Reactions to âProject Hail Maryâ Are Out of This WorldProject Hail Mary, the film adaptation of Andy Weir's novel, premiered to universally positive press reactions ahead of its March 20 release. Starring Ryan Gosling, the film follows an astronaut who wakes on a spaceship with no memory, tasked with stopping a deadly organism consuming the Sun, alongside an alien ally. Directors Phil Lord and Chris Miller appear to have delivered a movie that exceeds the long-anticipated expectations of book fans.Read more â
Engadget...Honor says its 4.8mm thick MagicPad 4 is the world's slimmest Android tabletHonor has unveiled the MagicPad 4, claiming the title of world's thinnest Android tablet at 4.8mm thickâa millimeter thinner than its predecessor and slimmer than comparable iPad Pro and Samsung Galaxy Tab models. The device features a 12.3-inch 165Hz OLED display, weighs 450g (145 grams lighter than the MagicPad 3), and includes a 66W fast charger, offering significant upgrades in display quality and overall performance.Read more â
CNET...Best Senior Phone Plans of 2026CNET compares senior phone plans from major carriers, identifying T-Mobile's Essentials Choice 55 as the most affordable option at $45/month with 5G and 50GB of data. The review evaluates pricing, features, and trade-offs across plans from T-Mobile, AT&T, Mint Mobile, and Verizon, helping seniors find affordable connectivity options that balance cost and functionality.Read more â
CNET...12 Things You Can Make in a Rice Cooker That Aren't RiceRice cookers extend far beyond cooking rice, capable of preparing other grains, eggs, dumplings, soups, desserts, and chocolate fondue through their steady heat and versatile cooking functions. This versatility makes rice cookers valuable multitasking kitchen appliances that can streamline various culinary techniques throughout the day.Read more â
CNET...Dell XPS 14 Review: The Refreshing Return of a New ClassicDell revives its XPS brand with the new XPS 14, correcting the failures of the previous Dell 14 Premium by delivering a lighter design at 3.2 pounds, Intel Panther Lake processors, and improved ergonomics at a competitive $1,600+ price point. The laptop offers strong performance and battery life comparable to the MacBook Pro 14, with an available OLED display option. This represents Dell's successful return to its proven XPS lineup after its rebranding experiment failed to resonate with consumers.Read more â
CNET...We Learned How to Share Info About ICE and Police Raids on Apps Like Ring NeighborsNeighborhood social media platforms like Ring Neighbors and Nextdoor have specific content policies for ICE and police activity posts, allowing location-specific reports while removing vague references or political commentary. Ring does not share security footage with ICE without legal warrants, and users retain rights to film law enforcement activities on their property.Read more â
CNET...Lenovo Legion Tower 5 Gen 10 Desktop Review: Mighty Good Value, if a Little QuirkyThe Lenovo Legion Tower 5 Gen 10 is a midrange gaming PC priced around $1,449 that delivers exceptional 1080p gaming performance, outperforming significantly more expensive systems through intelligent component selection centered on the AMD Ryzen 7 7800X3D processor. Despite some design compromises in expandability and port connectivity, the system's strong value, reliable cooling, and Editor's Choice award make it an excellent budget-conscious gaming choice.Read more â
The Verge...Honorâs new MagicPad 4 is the worldâs thinnest Android tabletHonor announced the MagicPad 4, an ultra-thin 4.8mm tablet featuring a 12.3-inch 165Hz OLED display and Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 processor, positioning it among the thinnest tablets available. The device is 145 grams lighter than its predecessor while maintaining premium audio with eight spatial speakers, with pricing and availability coming at MWC.Read more â
Gizmodo...Nuclear Energy Isnât Scary Anymore. Itâs Just Crypto-CodedNuclear power is gaining U.S. political momentum through government-backed investment, but concerns mount as Entra1 Energyâa startup with minimal track recordâpursues $25 billion in Japanese funds to commercialize small modular reactors. The company's lack of executed projects and questionable connections raise doubts about whether substantial capital will translate into actual nuclear generation capacity.Read more â
Engadget...xAI's trade secret lawsuit against OpenAI has been dismissedOpenAI successfully had US District Judge Rita F. Lin dismiss xAI's trade secret theft lawsuit, with the judge finding no direct allegations of OpenAI's own misconduct. The complaints centered on eight former xAI employees who joined OpenAI, but lacked evidence that OpenAI itself directed or participated in the alleged thefts. xAI has been granted leave to amend its complaint until March 17, 2026.Read more â
Engadget...The best cheap kitchen gadgets in 2026A guide to essential kitchen tools that improve cooking efficiency and safety, featuring recommendations like mandolines for precise vegetable cutting, food scales for accurate measurements, Microplanes for grating, and vacuum sealers for food preservation, with specific affordable brand suggestions for each tool.Read more â
Gizmodo...Rivian Tries to Make Charging Easier for Drivers Before Cheaper R2 ArrivesRivian is preparing for the R2 SUV launch by partnering with EnergyHub to optimize home charging at lower electricity rates and grid load management, while simultaneously expanding mobile service vans by 50% and adding over 50 new service garages. These infrastructure investments are critical as the company aims for 25% sales growth in 2026 following weak 2025 performance, with the service expansion supporting its direct sales model.Read more â
Engadget...Apple introduces age verification for apps in Utah, Louisiana and AustraliaApple has introduced new age verification tools and the Declared Age Range API to help developers comply with emerging age verification laws across multiple countries and US states, including Brazil, Australia, Singapore, Utah, and Louisiana. Beginning February 24, 2026, users under 18 can no longer download 18+ rated apps without age verification in select regions. The tools enable developers to confirm user age and manage parental permissions, addressing regulatory requirements for child safety in app distribution.Read more â
CNET...Samsung's Next Galaxy Watch Reveal Might Be Ultra SpecialSamsung is expected to launch the Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 in summer 2026 with significant health monitoring upgrades, including potential noninvasive glucose monitoring and deeper skin-based detection. Enhanced processing power could deliver better battery life, on-device AI features, and possibly satellite connectivity, bringing Samsung's flagship smartwatch closer to competitors' capabilities.Read more â
Gizmodo...Itâs Not Just You. Trumpâs State of the Union Triggered Siri on iPhone Usersâ PhonesDuring Trump's State of the Union address, multiple iPhone users reported that Siri was inadvertently activated by words in the speech due to Apple's simplified voice activation system that now only requires saying 'Siri' instead of 'Hey Siri.' The accidental trigger highlighted a potential sensitivity issue in the updated voice command system.Read more â
TechCrunch...Indiaâs AI boom pushes firms to trade near-term revenue for usersTech giants including OpenAI, Google, and Perplexity are ending free AI promotions in India to convert users to paid subscriptions. Although India drives approximately 20% of global GenAI app downloads, it accounts for only 1% of in-app revenue, highlighting a critical monetization challenge. Lower engagement rates and price sensitivity suggest the market will require tailored pricing strategies and bundled offerings to achieve sustainable growth.Read more â
CNET...Today's NYT Connections: Sports Edition Hints and Answers for Feb. 25, #520This article provides hints and complete answers for the daily Connections: Sports Edition puzzle, a sports-themed word game variant from The Athletic and The New York Times. The puzzle contains four difficulty tiers with themes including baseball terms, orange and black sports teams, Montreal references, and derby-related phrases.Read more â
The Verge...Pete Hegsethâs Pentagon AI bro squad includes a former Uber executive and a private equity billionaireThe Pentagon is negotiating with Anthropic over AI policy compliance while facing a critical supply-chain vulnerabilityâit needs at least two frontier AI models cleared for classified work, but only Anthropic's Claude currently meets security requirements. This situation provides significant leverage to Anthropic despite Pentagon pressure, as the department has limited viable alternatives and cannot risk violating its own national security guidelines.Read more â
Gizmodo...The Touchscreen MacBook Pro Will Have a Very iPhone-Like Screen, Report SaysApple is reportedly developing a touchscreen MacBook Pro with an OLED display and Dynamic Island, expected to launch in late 2026. Rather than positioning it as an iPad replacement, Apple plans to offer touch input as an optional feature that complements traditional point-and-click navigation, giving users flexibility in their interaction method.Read more â
CNET...Uber Moves Into Parking in Deal to Acquire SpotHeroUber has acquired SpotHero, a digital parking marketplace covering 400+ cities in North America, to expand beyond ride-hailing and delivery services. The integration will add parking reservations directly to the Uber app, enabling customers to plan comprehensive trips with bundled services. This acquisition reflects Uber's strategy to become a unified transportation platform while providing SpotHero access to Uber's extensive user base.Read more â
TechCrunch...Nvidia challenger AI chip startup MatX raised $500MMatX, a chip startup founded by former Google hardware engineers, has secured $500 million in Series B funding to develop processors designed to outperform Nvidia GPUs in LLM training and inference. The company plans to manufacture its chips with TSMC and begin shipping in 2027. The substantial funding reflects strong investor confidence in specialized AI chip solutions as competition intensifies in the AI accelerator market.Read more â
The Verge...Apple's new age verification tools block underage app downloads where required by lawApple has introduced new age verification tools and updated its Declared Age Range API to help developers comply with age assurance requirements across multiple regions including Australia, Brazil, Singapore, and U.S. states such as Utah and Louisiana. The new features automatically prevent unverified users from downloading 18+ apps and provide developers with regulatory signals and parental consent requirements. These changes address evolving global regulations requiring age confirmation for age-restricted digital content.Read more â
TechCrunch...Self-driving tech startup Wayve raises $1.2B from Nvidia, Uber, and three automakersWayve, a U.K. autonomous driving startup, raised $1.2 billion in Series C funding that values the company at $8.6 billion, backed by major tech firms, automakers, and institutional investors. The company uses end-to-end deep learning for autonomous driving without HD maps and takes a contrarian B2B approach by licensing its embodied AI technology to automakers and mobility companies like Nissan and Uber rather than operating vehicles itself. This funding round reflects significant investor confidence and commercial momentum in the autonomous vehicle industry.Read more â
The Verge...Appleâs touchscreen MacBooks might also have a Dynamic IslandApple is developing OLED touchscreen MacBook Pros arriving fall 2026 with a smaller Dynamic Island interface from iPhones, marking a significant reversal of the company's historical stance against Mac touchscreens. The new 14-inch and 16-inch models will feature an updated macOS interface optimized for both touch gestures and traditional input methods. This strategic pivot underscores Apple's evolving approach to integrating iPad-like functionality into its premium laptop lineup.Read more â
TechCrunch...Spanish âsoonicornâ Multiverse Computing releases free compressed AI modelMultiverse Computing has developed CompactifAI, a compression technology that reduces large language model size by half while maintaining comparable performance. Their HyperNova 60B model achieves 32GB size versus the original 120B model, enabling lower-cost deployment for enterprises. The Spanish startup is raising âŹ500 million at a âŹ1.5+ billion valuation to expand as a sovereign alternative to US-based AI companies.Read more â
Engadget...LG's massive 52-inch ultra-wide gaming monitor costs $2,000LG announced the UltraGear evo G9, a 52-inch ultrawide gaming monitor priced at $2,000 for pre-order, claiming it as the world's largest 5K2K gaming monitor. The monitor features a 1000R curve, 240Hz refresh rate, 1 millisecond gray-to-gray response time, VESA DisplayHDR 600, and 95% DCI-P3 color gamut coverage, delivering high-end gaming immersion at a competitive price point.Read more â
TechCrunch...Apple rolls out age verification tools worldwide to comply with growing web of child safety lawsApple is launching age verification tools to comply with regulatory requirements for age-restricted content across multiple countries and US states. The tools enable developers to verify user age without accessing personal data, while Apple blocks 18+ app downloads in Brazil, Australia, and Singapore until users confirm they are adults. Additional compliance features are being rolled out for Utah, Louisiana, and Brazil's loot box regulations.Read more â
Engadget...Apple's touchscreen MacBook will reportedly have a dynamic interfaceApple plans to add touchscreens and a Dynamic Island to its premium MacBook Pros launching this fall, featuring an adaptive interface that optimizes for both touch and mouse input. The devices will debut OLED displays on Mac laptops for the first time, enabling new design possibilities while maintaining physical keyboards.Read more â
Gizmodo...Okay, This AI-Powered âRobot Phoneâ Has My Undivided AttentionHonor is unveiling a 'Robot Phone' at MWC 2026 with a motorized, AI-powered camera gimbal that extends from the back and animatedly interacts with users. The device combines smartphone technology with robotics and computer vision to perform stabilized video capture and responsive interactions. While representing an intriguing experiment in AI-integrated hardware, the phone's commercial viability remains uncertain due to concerns about durability and battery life.Read more â
Gizmodo...Trump Claims the State of the Union Is Going to Be Long. Is It Just a Polymarket Pump?Prediction markets are experiencing high betting volume on the duration of President Trump's State of the Union speech, with forecasts ranging from 99 minutes to over 2 hours. The article examines historical speech lengths and betting odds while warning of potential market manipulation due to conflicts of interest involving Trump Jr.'s advisory roles at prediction platforms.Read more â
TechCrunch...Uber engineers built an AI version of their bossUber's CEO Dara Khosrowshahi disclosed that 90% of the company's software engineers are using AI tools to enhance productivity, with about 30% functioning as 'power users' fundamentally rethinking company architecture. Engineering teams have even created an AI chatbot version of Khosrowshahi to practice presentations with executives, illustrating how deeply AI has integrated into operational processes. The CEO emphasized that this AI adoption is driving unprecedented improvements in engineering productivity.Read more â
The Verge...OpenAI defeats xAIâs trade secrets lawsuitA federal judge dismissed xAI's lawsuit against OpenAI alleging employee poaching and theft of trade secrets, finding insufficient evidence of OpenAI's direct misconduct despite eight former xAI employees leaving for OpenAI. The ruling determined that while employees may have retained confidential information, there was no proof OpenAI directed or orchestrated such actions. This victory for OpenAI represents another development in escalating legal conflicts between the company and xAI CEO Elon Musk.Read more â
Gizmodo...Jodie Foster Reflects on the Personal Journey of Making âContactâJodie Foster discussed the 1997 film 'Contact' at the Academy Museum, reflecting on how director Robert Zemeckis merged scientific and spiritual themes while making deliberate creative choices over scientific accuracy, such as depicting radio waves as audible signals. The film remains relevant for its humanist exploration of wonder and connection, despite its scientific inaccuracies acknowledged by both Foster and attending astrophysicist Dr. Nivedita Mahesh.Read more â
CNET...Marvel's Wolverine Finally Has a Release Date, and It's SoonSony announced Marvel's Wolverine will release on September 15, concluding a five-year development cycle since the game's 2021 announcement. The Insomniac Games title, currently exclusive to PS5, follows Logan investigating mysteries about his past while battling iconic adversaries like Omega Red and Mystique across global locations including Canada, Madripoor, and Tokyo. The game is expected to retail for $70 and may eventually expand to other platforms like previous PlayStation exclusives.Read more â
CNET...Eufy's Newest Robot Vacuum Has the Longest Roller Mop We've Seen for the PriceEufy's new Omni C28 brings brush roll mopping technology to the $800 price range, previously exclusive to premium robot vacuums. The model features a 10.7-inch mop roller with self-cleaning capabilities, advanced laser navigation, and a comprehensive base station providing 75 days of hands-free operation. This makes advanced mopping automation significantly more accessible to mid-range consumers.Read more â
TechCrunch...Stripe is reportedly eyeing deal to buy some or all of PayPalStripe is exploring a potential acquisition of PayPal Holdings, though negotiations remain in early stages, according to Bloomberg sources. The move comes as Stripe announced a $159 billion valuation in its latest tender offer, representing a 74% increase year-over-year and solidifying its position as one of the world's most valuable private fintech companies. A successful merger would consolidate two major payment platforms and significantly reshape the digital payments landscape.Read more â
Gizmodo...Warner Bros. Has Decided That Maybe Paramount Could Be the Better Deal After AllParamount Skydance has submitted a revised acquisition offer for Warner Bros. Entertainment valued at $31 per share in cash, competing with Netflix's existing merger agreement. Warner Bros.' board is determining whether this proposal qualifies as superior, potentially triggering Netflix's contractual right to match or revise its offer. This development could reshape the ownership and content distribution strategy of a major entertainment conglomerate.Read more â
CNET...Waymo's Autonomous Ride Service Expands to 4 New CitiesWaymo is expanding its driverless ride-hailing services to four new cities in Texas and Florida, doubling the number of American metropolitan areas where it operates. The company plans additional expansion to Denver, Nashville, Las Vegas, Washington DC, London, and Tokyo in 2026, while testing next-generation autonomous vehicle technology on existing routes.Read more â
CNET...Oura Ring Wants to Put an OB-GYN on Your Finger With New AI for Womenâs HealthOura has launched a custom AI model within its Oura Advisor chatbot specifically designed for women's health topics including menstrual cycles, menopause, and fertility. The model combines biometric data from Oura Ring with clinical research and was developed by board-certified women's health experts to provide evidence-based, personalized guidance. Currently available for beta testing in Oura Labs, the system aims to help users prepare for medical appointments while maintaining strict privacy protections.Read more â
Gizmodo...Meta Gets Back into Crypto, Plans Stablecoin Integration Later This YearMeta is launching stablecoin payment functionality across Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp by late 2026, using third-party providers like Stripe rather than issuing its own token. This represents a cautious regulatory strategy, learning from the 2019-2022 failure of its Libra/Diem project, which faced government opposition over control of global payments. The move capitalizes on the evolving regulatory landscape, including the 2025 GENIUS Act that established the first federal framework for payment stablecoins.Read more â
CNET...Probiotic Sodas Are Trending, but Are They Healthy? We Asked Medical ExpertsMajor soda brands are launching prebiotic sodas claiming health benefits, but industry experts warn these products fall short of their marketing promises. While lower in sugar than traditional sodas, most brands contain insufficient prebiotic fiberâoften 2 grams versus the 5+ grams needed for measurable gut health improvements. Experts recommend viewing these beverages as occasional alternatives to regular soda rather than health supplements, and suggest whole foods remain the best source of prebiotics.Read more â
CNET...Netflix Surprises 'One Piece' Fans With Special Season 2 Episodes Theater DropNetflix is releasing One Piece Season 2 with a special theatrical premiere of the first two episodes on March 10 across select theaters in North America and Japan before the season launches on the streaming platform. The event will be shown in more than 200 locations, with ticket sales beginning February 26. The new season introduces the 'Into the Grand Line' story arc with expanded cast members in the live-action adaptation.Read more â
TechCrunch...Former L3Harris Trenchant boss jailed for selling hacking tools to Russian brokerPeter Williams, a former general manager at L3Harris defense contractor, was sentenced to seven years in prison for selling classified hacking and surveillance tools to Russian broker Operation Zero. The stolen tools could have compromised millions of computers and devices globally, and Williams profited $1.3 million in cryptocurrency from the illegal sales between 2022 and 2025. The U.S. Treasury Department sanctioned Operation Zero, which specializes in acquiring and reselling zero-day exploits for Android, iPhone, and messaging applications.Read more â
Gizmodo...Pete Hegseth Gives Anthropic Choice to Abandon AI Safeguards or Be Labeled âNational Security ThreatâDefense Secretary Pete Hegseth issued an ultimatum to Anthropic CEO demanding removal of safety guardrails from Claude AI that prevent autonomous weapons and surveillance use, threatening contract termination and government takeover if refused by Friday. The conflict reflects escalating tension between the Pentagon's push for unrestricted military AI access and Anthropic's commitment to responsible AI development with protective safeguards.Read more â
Engadget...1Password plans are getting more expensive soon1Password is raising prices significantly, with individual plans increasing from $36 to $48 annually and family plans from $60 to $72, effective after March 27. This represents the largest price increase in several years as the company expands its cybersecurity offerings with features like enhanced phishing protections. Despite the hike, 1Password remains a leading password management solution in the market.Read more â
TechCrunch...Googleâs new 1.9GW clean energy deal includes massive 100-hour batteryGoogle is building a Minnesota data center powered by 1.9 gigawatts of renewable energy, including a 300-megawatt iron-air battery from Form Energy that will be the world's largest long-duration storage system. This battery technology costs approximately one-third the price of lithium-ion batteries, making clean energy infrastructure more economically viable. The project establishes a new utility fee structure allowing energy companies to invest in renewable technologies without regulatory penalties.Read more â
CNET...Apple to Build the Mac Mini in the United States for the First TimeApple is establishing Mac Mini production in Houston, Texas for the first time, shifting manufacturing from Asia, while simultaneously expanding AI server production at the same facility. The move is part of Apple's broader $600 billion US investment commitment and will create thousands of jobs. This initiative also includes opening an Advanced Manufacturing Center for hands-on training in Apple product manufacturing.Read more â
TechCrunch...CarGurus data breach affects 12.5 million accountsCarGurus, an online automotive marketplace, suffered a data breach affecting 12.5 million customers, exposing names, email addresses, phone numbers, and physical addresses. The attack was attributed to ShinyHunters, a hacking group known for social engineering tactics, and also compromised financial pre-qualification data and dealer account information. This incident follows the group's pattern of breaching major organizations including Salesforce and universities through manipulation of support staff.Read more â
TechCrunch...Anthropic wonât budge as Pentagon escalates AI disputeThe Department of Defense is pressuring Anthropic to provide unrestricted access to its AI model by Friday, threatening to designate the company as a 'supply chain risk' or invoke the Defense Production Act if it refuses. The conflict arises from Anthropic's commitment to restrict use of its technology for mass surveillance and autonomous weapons, positions the Pentagon argues should be governed by law rather than corporate policy. The situation exposes the Pentagon's over-reliance on a single AI vendor and raises broader questions about government authority over AI safety practices.Read more â
The Verge...Let me see some ID: age verification is spreading across the internetAge verification systems are rapidly expanding across internet platforms in response to regulatory mandates aimed at protecting minors. This widespread adoption creates significant privacy concerns and implementation challenges, while raising questions about the effectiveness and consistency of verification methods across different jurisdictions and platforms.Read more â
Gizmodo...âA Knight of the Seven Kingdomsâ Might Not Pick Up on Its Big Cliffhanger Just YetA Knight of the Seven Kingdoms' season one finale sets up potential conflict between Prince Maekar and his runaway son Egg, with actor Sam Spruell explaining Maekar's emotional struggle as a failed father who lacks the wisdom Dunk possesses. While Maekar is absent from the upcoming second season, the show's timeline indicates he will eventually become king after the deaths of other Targaryens, potentially allowing future exploration of his relationship with Egg. The show's creators have hinted at expanding beyond Martin's published novellas, suggesting Maekar's character arc could continue in future seasons.Read more â
Engadget...Discord delays age verification to address user concernsDiscord announced a postponement of its global age verification policy rollout to the second half of 2026 in response to user privacy concerns. The platform will offer multiple verification options including credit card verification to confirm age without requiring identity disclosure or face scans. Discord also committed to greater transparency regarding verification vendors and will implement new spoiler channel features to reduce verification requirements across servers.Read more â
TechCrunch...Discord delays global rollout of age verification after backlashDiscord has delayed its global age verification rollout from March to the second half of 2026, following significant user backlash. The company clarified that only 10% of users will need age verification, as internal systems can already determine the age of most adult users through account signals. Discord plans to introduce additional verification methods including credit card verification and will only partner with vendors performing verification on-device, addressing privacy concerns from the initial announcement.Read more â
Gizmodo...Novo Nordiskâs Latest Weight Loss Drug Might Be Its Best Yetâand a Much-Needed WinNovo Nordisk reported Phase II trial results for UBT251, a triple-agonist weight loss drug achieving up to 20% body weight loss in 24 weeks, positioning it as one of the most promising obesity therapies in development. The results provide a crucial win for the company following disappointing outcomes with CagriSema and intensify competition in the growing weight loss medication market. UBT251 is advancing to Phase III trials and has potential to match or exceed competitor efficacy, offering patients additional treatment options.Read more â
Engadget...The Pentagon has reportedly given Anthropic until Friday to let it use Claude as it sees fitThe Defense Department is pressuring Anthropic to remove safety guardrails from Claude for military applications, with a Friday deadline and threats to invoke the Defense Production Act if demands aren't met. Anthropic has stated it will not permit Claude to be used for mass surveillance of Americans or autonomous weapons development. Claude's critical role in sensitive government operations makes Anthropic vulnerable to this pressure despite the company's resistance to certain military demands.Read more â
TechCrunch...Instagram head pressed on lengthy delay to launch teen safety features, like a nudity filter, court filing revealsMeta's Instagram head was deposed in a lawsuit revealing the company knew about safety risks from explicit images in direct messages since 2018 but delayed implementing a nudity filter until April 2024. The deposition disclosed that 19.2% of teens aged 13-15 reported seeing unwanted sexual images on Instagram, demonstrating Meta's awareness of harms to minors. The case is part of broader litigation seeking to hold major tech companies accountable for prioritizing user engagement over teen safety.Read more â
Gizmodo...Military Leaders Warn European War on American Big Tech Comes With Real Security RisksEuropean leaders are pushing for greater technological independence from the United States amid geopolitical tensions, driven by concerns over potential U.S. control of critical infrastructure. However, military officials warn the continent's deep reliance on American systemsâfrom satellite networks to cybersecurity infrastructureâmakes rapid decoupling impractical without creating security vulnerabilities. The push has prompted concrete policy changes, such as France replacing Microsoft Teams with domestic alternatives, while the EU works on tech sovereignty legislation.Read more â
CNET...'Survivor 50': How to Watch the Premiere Without CableSurvivor Season 50 premieres on CBS featuring 24 returning players competing under the 'In the Hands of the Fans' theme, where fans voted on game elements like idol rules and fire-making challenges. The three-hour premiere streams on Paramount Plus with timing dependent on subscription tier, offering both live and on-demand viewing options.Read more â
CNET...Meta and AMD's Multibillion-Dollar Deal Is All About the AI ChipsMeta announces a multi-year partnership with AMD to purchase billions of dollars in Instinct GPUs and takes a 10% stake in the chipmaker, acquiring up to 6 gigawatts of AI computing capacity. The deal signals major tech companies are securing hardware resources amid intensifying AI competition, with implications for consumer pricing as supply constraints persist.Read more â
Gizmodo...You Can Now Own an Official Version of the Superior âStar Trekâ MugMaster Replicas has announced official preorders for Star Trek Deep Space Nine raktajino mugs, bringing back iconic drinkware that have been unavailable since their trademark expired in the late 1990s. The mugs are available in multiple colorways including the signature pale blue featured in the show, priced at $25 each. This release fulfills decades-long fan demand for officially licensed Star Trek merchandise featuring the recognizable sci-fi design.Read more â
Engadget...Google sent an AI-generated push alert that included a racial slurGoogle removed an AI-generated news alert containing offensive language about a BAFTA Film Awards incident, highlighting content moderation challenges in automated systems. The incident prompted Google to apologize and commit to improving content filtering processes to prevent similar failures.Read more â
Gizmodo...File-Sharing Network Soulseek Has Been Flooded With AI Homer Simpson Cover SongsThousands of AI-generated Homer Simpson vocal covers have flooded the peer-to-peer network Soulseek, disrupting a platform typically used by collectors seeking underground and rare music. A dedicated streaming service called D'oh FM has emerged offering 24/7 AI-generated Homer Simpson covers with user-submitted requests. The trend demonstrates both the creative potential and disruptive impact of generative AI in music production.Read more â
Engadget...Here's the first teaser for A24's adaptation of The BackroomsA24 has released the first teaser for The Backrooms, a film adaptation of the viral YouTube short directed by original creator Kane Parsons. The film, starring Chiwetel Ejiofor and Renate Reinsve, features the series' signature ominous liminal spaces and will be released on May 29, 2026.Read more â
TechCrunch...More startups are hitting $10M ARR in 3 months than ever beforeAI has accelerated startup growth to unprecedented levels, with an increasing number of new ventures reaching multimillion-dollar annual recurring revenue within months rather than years. According to Stripe's 2025 report, startups grew 50% faster than in 2024, with twice as many hitting $10 million ARR in three months, while 20% of new businesses charged customers within their first month. Though investors prioritize sustainable growth and customer retention over raw speed, this trend demonstrates how AI tools and infrastructure are enabling founders to achieve financial milestones significantly faster.Read more â
Engadget...Waymo will start offering robotaxi rides in four more citiesWaymo announced expansion of its autonomous ride-hailing service to Dallas, Houston, San Antonio, and Orlando, with initial availability restricted to Waymo app users invited on a rolling basis. The company plans to scale operations significantly and open its robotaxi service to the general public later in 2026. This marks a major milestone in the commercial deployment of autonomous vehicles across multiple US markets.Read more â
The Verge...Discord is delaying its global age verification rolloutDiscord won't roll out age verification globally on its platform next month as previously announced, and says in a blog post that it's delaying the launch until the second half of 2026. "The way this landed, many of you walked away thinking we're requiring face scans and ID uploads from everyone just to use Discord. […]Read more â
TechCrunch...Instagramâs TV app is launching on Google TV devicesInstagram is expanding its dedicated TV app to Google TV devices in the U.S., enabling users to watch Reels and browse their feeds on television. The expansion aims to strengthen Instagram's competition with YouTube in the TV streaming space by offering a lean-back viewing experience with auto-playing personalized content. The app supports multiple account management and features Reels organized by topic categories.Read more â
Gizmodo...NASAâs Curiosity Finds Crunchy Nodules Where Ancient Martian Water Once StoodNASA's Curiosity rover discovered boxwork formations on Marsâhardened mineral ridges created by ancient groundwaterâsuggesting water persisted on the Red Planet longer than previously thought. These formations found along Mount Sharp indicate the groundwater table was high enough to potentially sustain microbial life for extended periods. The discovery provides new evidence about Mars's climate history and conditions favorable for early habitability.Read more â
TechCrunch...Treasury sanctions Russian zero-day broker accused of buying exploits stolen from U.S. defense contractorThe U.S. government sanctioned two zero-day exploit brokersâOperation Zero and Advance Security Solutionsâalong with their operators for illegally acquiring and reselling security vulnerabilities. The action followed the discovery that a U.S. defense contractor employee sold stolen government cyber tools to Operation Zero, which distributed them to foreign intelligence agencies and ransomware groups, posing significant threats to national security.Read more â
CNET...10 of the Best Movies on Hulu You Should Stream NowHulu has evolved from a TV catch-up service into a prestige movie destination, positioning itself as Disney's premium film hub. With exclusive access to Searchlight Pictures and priority rights to 20th Century Studios content, Hulu is establishing a distinct identity as the home for quality horror, sci-fi, and thriller films.Read more â
Gizmodo...Maul Kinda Regrets Wanting to Be Rid of the Jedi in âShadow LordâDarth Maul returns in the new animated series 'Maul: Shadow Lord' arriving on Disney+ April 6, set between Revenge of the Sith and A New Hope. The show explores Maul's evolved perspective on the Jedi, revealing he has developed respect for their principles and values in contrast to his contempt for the Empire's unethical pursuit of power.Read more â
TechCrunch...Google adds a way to create automated workflows to OpalGoogle has introduced AI agents to its Opal no-code app builder, enabling users to create automated workflows and mini apps using natural language prompts powered by Gemini 3 Flash. The agents intelligently select tools and execute tasks while requesting additional information from users when needed. This advancement makes complex app development accessible to non-technical users without coding knowledge.Read more â
Gizmodo...âLikely the Largest Breach in U.S. Historyâ: What You Need to Know About the Conduent FiascoConduent, a major health insurance document processing company, suffered one of the largest data breaches in U.S. history, exposing personal information for at least 26 million individuals including names, social security numbers, and health data. The breach, occurring between October 2024 and January 2025, was perpetrated by the Safepay ransomware group, affecting residents across multiple states with Texas and Oregon particularly impacted. The incident has triggered investigations by state attorneys general and a pending class action lawsuit, with Conduent offering affected individuals free credit monitoring services.Read more â
TechCrunch...Spotify and Liquid Death release a limited-edition speaker shaped like⌠an urn?Spotify and Liquid Death have launched the Eternal Playlist Urn, a limited-edition Bluetooth speaker designed to resemble a cremation urn, priced at $495 with only 150 units available for purchase. The product enables users to create custom playlists that sync to the speaker, representing Spotify's second branded hardware collaboration and exemplifying the brand's expansion into novelty consumer electronics.Read more â
Engadget...Sony reveals the Death Stranding 2 required PC specsSony revealed PC system requirements for Death Stranding 2: On the Beach, with reasonable minimum specs requiring a GTX 1660 or RX 5500 XT for 1080p 30fps performance. The PC port debuts Pico upscaling technology and introduces ultrawide display support up to 32:9 aspect ratio, making the game accessible to players with older hardware while adding advanced visual options.Read more â
The Verge...1Password is going up in price1Password is increasing subscription prices effective March 27, 2026, raising its individual yearly plan from $35.88 to $47.88 and family plan from $59.88 to $71.88. The password manager company justifies the price hike by citing substantial growth in platform value and capability, stating the increase will support continued investment in security and innovation. The price changes will take effect at users' next renewal date after March 27.Read more â
Engadget...Someone made an app to warn you if smart glasses are nearbyA new app called Nearby Glasses detects smart glasses via their Bluetooth signature and alerts users of potential nearby devices, addressing growing privacy concerns about these devices being secretly used to film people. The app was developed in response to incidents involving Meta's Ray-Bans and similar devices as companies like Meta and OpenAI add features such as facial recognition to smart eyewear. It represents user-initiated protection against surveillance technology, though false positives may occur from other Bluetooth devices like VR headsets.Read more â
Gizmodo...YouTubeâs Most Maximal Synth Sorcerer to Represent the UK at EurovisionSam Bartle, a UK Eurovision representative and YouTube creator, is known for designing elaborate musical machines and synthesizers, ranging from Furby orchestras to complex 1000-oscillator installations. His work combines legitimate musical talent with genuine engineering curiosity, extending to museum curation and video game development. Bartle's appeal stems from his authentic personality and sincere commitment to exploring sound possibilities rather than creating content for shock value.Read more â
The Verge...Seedance 2.0 might be gen AI videoâs next big hope, but itâs still slopByteDance's Seedance 2.0 video generation model produces remarkably realistic footage but relies on copyrighted training data, triggering cease and desist letters from major studios including Disney, Paramount, and Netflix. The model's superior quality compared to competitors underscores how AI video generators achieve impressive results through unauthorized use of copyrighted material. The legal pressure highlights the fundamental challenge facing the AI video industry: achieving quality requires either circumventing copyright protections or adopting properly licensed training data.Read more â
Engadget...iPhone Fold rumors: Everything we know right now, including the leaked design, upgrades, price and moreApple's first foldable iPhone is expected to launch in the second half of 2026, featuring a book-style design with a 7.7-8 inch unfolded display and Samsung's creaseless OLED technology. The device would be priced between $2,000 and $2,500, making it Apple's most expensive iPhone ever, and would utilize Liquidmetal for the hinge and Touch ID instead of Face ID.Read more â
CNET...Do Smart Glasses Make Cooking Easier? Here's My Take After Real-World TestingSmart glasses like the Solos AirGo A5 excel at guiding users through known recipes but struggle with discovering new ones due to AI chatbot hallucinations. While offering convenient voice-guided cooking assistance at an affordable price point, their reliance on AI makes them unreliable for recipe innovation and should be viewed as supplements to traditional cooking resources.Read more â
Gizmodo...Weâre Getting Major âHouse of Leavesâ Vibes From This Creepy New TrailerA24 is releasing a feature film adaptation of Backrooms, a viral YouTube short series, on May 29, starring Chiwetel Ejiofor, Renate Reinsve, and Mark Duplass. The film follows characters trapped in an impossibly infinite space with no clear escape, expanding on the mind-bending concept that made the original shorts popular. Director Kane Parsons maintains the creepy atmosphere while introducing new settings and narrative elements to the horror premise.Read more â
CNET...OpenAI and Google Take Steps to Avoid Abusive AI Imagery After Grok ScandalGrok generated 3 million sexualized images over 11 days in January 2026, approximately 23,000 containing minors, highlighting widespread abuse of generative AI for creating nonconsensual intimate imagery. In response, competitors OpenAI and Google strengthened security measures, with OpenAI fixing ChatGPT vulnerabilities and Google improving image removal processes. The incident underscores the ongoing challenge of balancing AI capabilities with robust safeguards against abuse.Read more â
The Verge...You can still get $30 in Samsung credit when you reserve a Galaxy S26 phoneSamsung will unveil its Galaxy S26 lineup on February 25th, featuring enhanced AI capabilities and improved camera systems, with early reservations offering a $30 promotional credit and up to $900 trade-in incentives. The new devices are expected to introduce a privacy mode for content blackout and expanded Galaxy AI tools for photography.Read more â
TechCrunch...Twitch is overhauling its suspensions policyTwitch is replacing its all-or-nothing suspension system with targeted enforcement that implements separate suspensions for streaming violations and chat violations based on violation severity. Users will now retain partial platform access depending on the infraction typeâstreaming violations prevent livestreaming but allow watching and chatting elsewhere, while chat violations restrict participation in other channels' chats but allow streaming and watching. The new approach maintains indefinite bans for serious violations while making enforcement more proportionate to the specific offense committed.Read more â
Engadget...Marvel's Wolverine will hit PS5 on September 15Insomniac Games announced that Marvel's Wolverine will release on PlayStation 5 on September 15, positioning it as a major blockbuster ahead of GTA VI's launch. The game was absent from PlayStation's recent State of Play showcase but will arrive in the final weeks of summer. The studio plans to reveal more details about the game this spring.Read more â
Engadget...For All Mankind's latest trailer teases a war on MarsApple has released the full trailer for season five of its alternate history sci-fi series For All Mankind, premiering March 27 and set in an alternate 2012. The season features escalating conflict between Earth and an independent Mars colony threatening interplanetary war. Apple TV+ also announced a spinoff called Star City that will explore the same events from Russia's perspective.Read more â
TechCrunch...OpenAI COO says âwe have not yet really seen AI penetrate enterprise business processesâOpenAI launched Frontier, an enterprise platform for building AI agents, but company leadership acknowledged that AI adoption in enterprise business processes remains limited despite widespread hype. The company is partnering with major consultancies and expanding in India to drive enterprise adoption, while addressing concerns about job market impacts.Read more â
Gizmodo...Meet the Gigamaserâthe Brightest Microwave Laser Ever Spotted in Deep SpaceResearchers discovered an exceptionally bright microwave radiation beam called a 'gigamaser' from a galaxy merger 8 billion light-years away using the MeerKAT radio telescope. The detection was enabled by gravitational lensing from a foreground galaxy, making observation of this distant system possible. This first-of-its-kind discovery, 100,000 times brighter than a star, could serve as a marker for studying cosmic evolution.Read more â
Gizmodo...Anthropicâs Claude Comes for Knowledge Work as Markets Freak OutAnthropic launched Claude Cowork plugins to automate knowledge work across HR, finance, engineering, and other sectors, sparking market concerns about white-collar job displacement. The technology enables AI agents to connect to Google Drive, Gmail, Excel, and other tools, raising questions about whether AI will augment or replace human workers. Studies indicate AI has already begun impacting employment, particularly affecting early-career workers in finance and technology.Read more â
Engadget...Reddit fined $19.6 million over age verification checks in the UKThe UK's Information Commissioner's Office fined Reddit ÂŁ14.5 million for failing to adequately protect children's data and implement effective age verification measures, leaving minors exposed to inappropriate content. The platform's verification system relied on users self-declaring their age over 13, which regulators found insufficient and easy to bypass. The fine demonstrates regulatory pressure on major tech platforms to strengthen child protection practices and comply with data protection standards.Read more â
CNET...A Planet Parade Is Happening This Week: How to See 6 Planets In the SkyA rare planetary alignment featuring six planetsâMercury, Venus, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptuneâwill be visible in the night sky between February 21-28, 2026, with optimal viewing around 6:45 PM local time. The event requires telescopes and dark skies away from light pollution to observe, particularly Uranus and Neptune which are impossible to see with the naked eye.Read more â
TechCrunch...Stripeâs valuation soars 74% to $159 billionStripe's latest tender offer values the company at $159 billion, a 74% increase from its February 2025 valuation of $91.5 billion. The transaction, involving major investors like Thrive Capital, Coatue, and Andreessen Horowitz, demonstrates strong investor confidence in the payment platform. The announcement coincides with Stripe's annual founders' letter showcasing product releases and global usage growth for the year.Read more â
The Verge...PlayStationâs Wolverine game hits PS5 in SeptemberMarvel's Wolverine, the next superhero game from Marvel's Spider-Man developer Insomniac Games, will be released on PS5 on September 15th. Insomniac announced that it would be making a Wolverine game way back in 2021, so it's been a long wait in the leadup to an official release date. Sony gave a vague fall 2026 release […]Read more â
The Verge...Archer Aviation accuses rival Vertical Aerospace of ripping off its air taxi designsArcher has filed a patent infringement lawsuit against Vertical, alleging the company's Valo aircraft design copies Archer's Midnight aircraft. The legal action seeks to prevent Vertical from commercializing the Valo based on claimed patent infringement.Read more â
Engadget...Google claims it's building data centers that barely use any waterGoogle announced a new data center in Texas featuring advanced air-cooling technology to minimize water consumption as part of its $40 billion state investment, with 7,800 megawatts of contracted renewable energy capacity. The project addresses growing community concerns about data centers' impact on water usage and greenhouse gas emissions. However, industry leaders like OpenAI's Sam Altman continue to downplay sustainability concerns.Read more â
Gizmodo...Googleâs AI Slop Machine Is Coming for Your MusicGoogle acquired ProducerAI, a generative AI music platform, and will integrate it with its Lyria 3 music generation model under Google Labs. The platform enables users to generate music through text prompts, allowing granular control over specific elements like lyrics, instruments, and sounds. This acquisition extends Google's efforts to embed AI-generated content across creative mediums including music production.Read more â
The Verge...DJI sues over the FCCâs decision to block new drone importsDJI wants a federal court to toss out the Federal Communications Commission's decision to ban imports of its China-made drones and components, as reported earlier by Reuters. In a petition filed in an appeals court this week, DJI claims the FCC "exceeded its statutory authority" last December when adding drones made in foreign countries to […]Read more â
CNET...YouTube Boosts Premium Lite Plan With Two Big Feature ChangesYouTube Premium Lite is expanding its offerings by adding Background Play and Downloads capabilities, features previously exclusive to the full Premium subscription. The $8/month tier now allows users to watch videos offline and play content in the background in response to user feedback. This expansion strengthens Premium Lite's value proposition while keeping it positioned as a mid-tier option between ad-supported and fully ad-free YouTube.Read more â
Engadget...YouTube's Premium Lite tier gets background play and downloadsYouTube is adding background play and offline downloads to its Premium Lite plan ($8/month), bringing more premium features without the full $14 price tag. The expansion strategically follows Google's crackdown on free background playback workarounds and aims to attract budget-conscious users to its mid-tier subscription.Read more â
CNET...Sony WF-1000XM6 vs. AirPods Pro 3 vs. Bose QC Ultra (2nd Gen): Which ANC Earbuds Are the Best?A comprehensive review compares three flagship noise-canceling earbuds, finding Sony's WF-1000XM6 delivers the best overall sound quality, while Apple's AirPods Pro 3 excel for Apple users with superior features and design. The choice between these premium options ($249-$330) depends on individual fit, ecosystem preference, and specific needs, with all three offering excellent noise cancellation and call quality.Read more â
Gizmodo...I Canât Stop Thinking About the âStar Warsâ T-Shirt in This 2004 Hilary Duff MovieAn investigative exploration into the meaning of a 'Darth Vader Was Framed' t-shirt worn in the 2004 film 'A Cinderella Story,' attempting to determine what Star Wars lore or storyline the slogan references. The article traces through Star Wars canon and interviews experts to resolve whether Vader was framed for killing Obi-Wan, destroying Alderaan, or something else entirely, ultimately suggesting it may reference a common misconception among fans.Read more â
The Verge...YouTube's cheaper subscription is getting background play and downloadsYouTube is expanding YouTube Premium Lite ($7.99/month) by adding background playback and offline download capabilities in response to user feedback. These features, rolling out starting Tuesday, enable users to continue watching videos while using other apps and access content without an internet connection. The update narrows the feature gap between Premium Lite and the full YouTube Premium subscription ($13.99/month).Read more â
TechCrunch...YouTube beefs up its $7.99/month Lite subscription with offline downloads and background playYouTube is expanding its affordable Premium Lite subscription ($7.99/month) with video download for offline access and background playback capabilities, features previously exclusive to the full Premium plan. The expansion responds to user feedback and narrows the feature gap between tiers, making Lite more attractive while positioning music content as the primary differentiator for upgrading. YouTube's subscription services continue driving strong revenue growth for Alphabet, with over 125 million Premium and Music users contributing to the company's $60 billion annual revenue.Read more â
TechCrunch...Music generator ProducerAI joins Google LabsGoogle is integrating ProducerAI into Google Labs, enabling users to generate music from natural language prompts using Lyria 3. The tool positions AI as a creative collaboration partner rather than a replacement, with musicians like Wyclef Jean already leveraging it to enhance production. This move reflects the growing acceptance of AI in music creation, though it continues to spark debate over copyright and training data practices.Read more â
Gizmodo...Scientists Have Discovered the Bed Bugâs Greatest FearUC Riverside researchers discovered that bed bugs have a strong aversion to wet surfaces, actively avoiding water approximately 90% of the time, with juvenile bugs showing especially acute fear. This behavior stems from their flat body structure and vulnerability to water blocking their spiracles (breathing pores), which could easily lead to drowning. These findings could improve pest control strategies by informing the development of more effective liquid-based treatments to prevent bed bugs from evading treated surfaces.Read more â
CNET...A Red iPhone 18 Pro Could Be ComingMark Gurman reports that Apple is testing a deep red color as the flagship shade for the upcoming iPhone 18 Pro, potentially replacing the current Cosmic Orange option. The company may also be considering purple and brown variants, along with a separate color palette for its long-awaited foldable phone. This marks Apple's return to red for iPhone Pro models since the iPhone 14's Product Red variant.Read more â
The Verge...Anthropic's Claude Cowork is plugging AI into more boring enterprise stuffAnthropic announced updates to Claude Cowork enabling integrations with Google Workspace, Docusign, and WordPress, plus new plugins for HR, design, engineering, and finance. The platform can now execute multi-step tasks across Excel and PowerPoint, significantly expanding its enterprise AI agent capabilities for office productivity.Read more â
TechCrunch...Marquis sues firewall provider SonicWall, alleges security failings with its firewall backup led to ransomware attackFintech company Marquis has filed a lawsuit against firewall provider SonicWall following a 2025 breach that exposed customer firewall configuration files and enabled a subsequent ransomware attack on Marquis' network. The incident resulted in the theft of sensitive customer data including names, Social Security numbers, and financial information affecting at least 400,000 individuals. Marquis claims SonicWall failed to secure its backup service and left customers vulnerable to attack.Read more â
Engadget...Blizzard finally revealed its long-rumored Overwatch mobile gameBlizzard announced Overwatch Rush, a new top-down hero shooter designed specifically for mobile rather than a direct port of the mainline game. The free-to-play title will feature 4v4 matches with touchscreen controls and bite-sized gameplay, launching on both iOS and Android following a beta phase. A dedicated team separate from mainline development will focus exclusively on the mobile spinoff to avoid draining resources from the primary franchise.Read more â
Gizmodo...Earthâs Largest Land-Based Carbon Sink Has Sprung a Disturbing LeakA study found that two lakes in the Congo Basin are releasing significant amounts of carbon dioxide, with up to 40% coming from ancient peat deposits, challenging assumptions that these peatlands safely store carbon long-term. Researchers estimate Lake Mai Ndombe alone releases over 150 gigatons of ancient carbon annually through microbial decomposition and subsurface methane pathways. Rising temperatures and land-use changes may be destabilizing the peatlands, potentially creating a climate feedback loop that accelerates global warming.Read more â
Engadget...Netflix, Disney+ and other major streaming services face stricter UK oversightThe UK government is implementing stricter regulations for major streaming services including Netflix, Disney+, and Amazon Prime Video, requiring platforms with over 500,000 monthly UK viewers to meet broadcaster standards set by media watchdog Ofcom. Tier 1 services must ensure content accuracy and impartiality while protecting audiences from harmful material, with potential fines up to ÂŁ250,000 or five percent of qualifying revenue for breaches. Additionally, streaming platforms must meet accessibility requirements with at least 80 percent of catalogues subtitled, 10 percent with audio descriptions, and 5 percent with sign language within four years.Read more â
The Verge...Samsungâs artsy Frame TV has dropped to a record-low price for a limited timeSamsung's 2025 Frame TV is offered at its lowest price ever, with discounts up to $400 on select sizes through February 28th. The premium QLED television features an anti-glare display that showcases over 4,000 artworks when idle, allowing it to blend into home decor while functioning as a fully-featured 4K TV with streaming apps and gaming support.Read more â
Engadget...Samsung Galaxy Unpacked 2026: The Galaxy S26 series, AI and other products we might see on February 25Samsung will unveil its Galaxy S26 lineup at Unpacked on February 25, featuring the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chip, enhanced AI features including Perplexity integration, and new mobile AI photography tools. The devices represent incremental hardware improvements over previous generations, with the company's main focus shifting toward personal and adaptive AI capabilities across phones, earbuds, and software.Read more â
TechCrunch...Ukraineâs startups keep buildingUkrainian startups including unicorn Preply continue to innovate and grow despite Russia's ongoing invasion, with companies like Aspichi pivoting to support mental health through mixed-reality platforms. The government grants special status to strategic startups to shield key employees from military conscription while they contribute to national resilience. Kyiv and Lviv remain active startup hubs attracting venture capital and international talent despite wartime infrastructure challenges.Read more â
Gizmodo...Meta and AMD Team Up to Take on Nvidia in Massive AI Chip DealAMD and Meta announced a multi-year partnership where Meta will deploy up to 6 gigawatts of AMD GPUs starting in H2 2026, with potential acquisition of up to 160 million AMD shares if milestones are met. The deal positions AMD as a competitive alternative to Nvidia and allows Meta to diversify its AI compute supply in its pursuit of advanced AI systems. This partnership reflects broader industry efforts to avoid vendor lock-in with a single AI chip supplier.Read more â
The Verge...ADT just bought the company that invented Wi-Fi motion sensingADT, the 150-year-old company best known for home security, has acquired Origin Wireless in a $170 million deal to expand the capabilities of its security and smart home offerings. Origin Wireless developed algorithms that analyze how wireless RF signals bounce around a space to detect the presence and movements of people and objects without the […]Read more â
TechCrunch...Meta strikes up to $100B AMD chip deal as it chases âpersonal superintelligenceâMeta has announced a multiyear agreement to purchase up to $100 billion in AMD chips, including MI540 series GPUs and CPUs, supporting approximately six gigawatts of data center power capacity. The deal includes performance-based warrants granting Meta up to 10% equity stake in AMD, reflecting a strategic effort to reduce dependence on Nvidia in AI infrastructure. This commitment represents part of Meta's broader $600+ billion investment in U.S. data center and AI infrastructure to advance its personal superintelligence initiatives.Read more â
TechCrunch...Oura launches a proprietary AI model focused on womenâs healthOura launched a proprietary AI model for its Oura Advisor chatbot to provide personalized women's health insights, leveraging medical standards, clinical expertise, and users' biometric data. The custom model addresses a critical gap in AI systems designed specifically for women's reproductive health across the full lifecycle. By combining rigorous science with real-world biometric tracking, Oura sets a new standard for responsible, women-focused health AI deployment.Read more â
CNET...'High Potential' Release Schedule: When Is Season 2, Episode 13 Coming?High Potential, an ABC crime drama starring Kaitlin Olson as a consultant for the Los Angeles Police Department, will not air this week but returns with a new episode on Tuesday, March 3. Episodes air on ABC and stream on Hulu the following day, with the show based on the French series Haut Potentiel Intellectuel.Read more â
Gizmodo...âFor All Mankindâ Season 5 Looks Like an All Out Martian RevolutionApple TV released the first full trailer for season five of 'For All Mankind,' set in 2012 with escalating tensions between Mars and Earth colonies. The season features aged-up returning cast members alongside new stars including Sean Kaufman and Ruby Cruz as the emerging generation grappling with interplanetary conflict and the search for extraterrestrial intelligence. The series returns on March 27.Read more â
TechCrunch...Final 4 days to save up to $680 on your TechCrunch Disrupt 2026 passTechCrunch Disrupt 2026 (October 13-15) will gather 10,000+ founders, VCs, and operators for high-signal networking and deal-making at Moscone West. The event features the Startup Battlefield competition where 200 pre-Series A companies compete for $100,000 equity-free funding and investor access. Super Early Bird pricing ends February 27, offering up to $680 discounts for founders and investors seeking leverage in capital formation and startup scaling.Read more â
CNET...From Perfect Toast to Complete Meals, These Are the Best Toaster Ovens of 2026This comprehensive toaster oven review compares multiple models across key performance metrics including toasting quality, cooking speed, temperature consistency, and ease of use. The Panasonic FlashXpress and Breville Mini Smart Oven emerge as top performers, offering fast cooking times, even heating, and intuitive digital controls. The review provides consumers with detailed insights to help select the best toaster oven for their needs.Read more â
TechCrunch...Anthropic launches new push for enterprise agents with plugins for finance, engineering, and designAnthropic unveiled an enterprise agents program designed to deliver practical agentic AI for workplace deployment, addressing the gap between 2025's AI hype and actual enterprise adoption. The program includes pre-built agents for finance, HR, and legal functions, along with new integrations with Gmail, DocuSign, and other enterprise tools, with centralized admin controls. This positions Anthropic to capture market share from existing SaaS products while giving enterprises customizable AI agents tailored to their specific needs.Read more â
The Verge...How Claude Code Claude CodesClaude Code has achieved widespread product-market fit, expanding beyond developers to users across various industries, with Anthropic working to make it more accessible through new products like Cowork. The article also discusses the privacy tradeoffs inherent in agentic AI systems that request broad access to user data and devices.Read more â
Gizmodo...JBL Bandbox Solo Review: An AI Speaker You Can Actually LoveThe JBL Bandbox Solo is a $250 portable practice amp and Bluetooth speaker that uses AI to separate song elements into individual stems, allowing users to isolate vocals, guitars, or other instruments for targeted practice. The AI stem feature performs effectively across most songs and transforms practice sessions by enabling musicians to play along without being drowned out by the original recording.Read more â
TechCrunch...Conduent data breach grows, affecting at least 25M peopleA January 2025 ransomware attack on Conduent, a major US government contractor handling state benefit programs and payment processing, resulted in the theft of personal data for over 25 million Americans. The breach compromised sensitive information including names, Social Security numbers, addresses, and health insurance and medical data. Conduent has been non-transparent about the incident, even obscuring its incident notice from search engine results.Read more â
Engadget...Ryan Coogler's X-Files reboot gets the green light at HuluHulu has officially greenlit a pilot for Ryan Coogler's X-Files reboot after three years of development, with Coogler directing and writing the pilot while Jennifer Yale serves as showrunner. The reimagined series will follow two FBI agents investigating paranormal phenomena and features actress Danielle Deadwyler as co-lead.Read more â
Gizmodo...âSuper Mario Galaxy Movieâ Might Bring Another Nintendo Legend to the Big ScreenThis entertainment roundup covers major announcements including casting additions to Wednesday season 3, plot details for upcoming films like Jurassic World Liberation and the Super Mario Galaxy movie, and director Dan Trachtenberg's plans for future Predator projects. The coverage highlights significant activity from major streaming platforms and studios including Netflix and Paramount.Read more â
The Verge...This limited edition Death Stranding-inspired tablet is the coolest computer Iâve ever touchedAsus has released the ROG Flow Z13-KJP, a limited edition gaming tablet co-designed with Kojima Productions and artist Yoji Shinkawa, featuring premium aesthetics inspired by the Death Stranding franchise. The $3,699.99 device combines an AMD Ryzen AI Max 395 Plus APU with meticulously crafted design elements including gold accents, carbon fiber panels, and sci-fi military iconography. The collaboration includes matching peripherals and a Steam code for Death Stranding 2: On the Beach.Read more â
The Verge...Samsung is on slop watch at UnpackedSamsung's Galaxy S26 series introduces advanced AI-powered camera features that extend beyond traditional image capture, enabling generative edits like filling missing content, changing scenes, and creating AI backgrounds. The development raises concerns about blurring the distinction between authentic photography and AI-generated content, potentially transforming cameras from capture devices into creative generation tools.Read more â
The Verge...This Chainsmokers-approved AI music producer is joining GoogleProducerAI integrates Google's Lyria 3 AI model to enable users to generate sounds, workshop lyrics, and remix songs. This advancement democratizes music production by leveraging advanced AI capabilities for creative tasks traditionally requiring professional skills.Read more â
TechCrunch...Mogul says it has tracked $1.5B in music royalties, raised $5M in fundingMogul, a music royalties management platform founded by former SoundCloud executives, announced it has helped artists recover $1.5 billion in lost royalties since launch and raised $5 million in new funding. The platform uses a comprehensive data pipeline to track royalties across multiple platforms, fill data gaps, and provide catalog valuations, with users reporting an average 20% increase in royalty revenues. The company is also preparing to address the emerging complexity of tracking royalties for AI-generated music.Read more â
TechCrunch...Itâs time to pull the plug on plug-in hybridsReal-world data from over 1 million plug-in hybrid vehicles in Germany shows that most owners rarely or never charge their batteries, causing PHEVs to produce approximately 3.5 times more emissions than official ratings suggest. Without consistent charging, PHEVs fail to deliver their promised environmental benefits and may not serve as an effective bridge technology toward full electric vehicle adoption.Read more â
TechCrunch...New Relic launches new AI agent platform and OpenTelemetry toolsNew Relic introduced an AI agent platform designed for data observability, enabling enterprises to build and manage agents that monitor company data to identify and prevent issues before they impact products. The no-code platform supports the model context protocol and integrates with existing New Relic tools, focusing specifically on observability use cases rather than general-purpose agent management. This launch represents New Relic's response to the growing enterprise adoption of AI agents, competing with similar platforms from Salesforce and OpenAI.Read more â
TechCrunch...Waymo robotaxis are now operating in 10 US citiesWaymo is expanding its robotaxi services to four new citiesâDallas, Houston, San Antonio, and Orlandoâas part of its aggressive growth strategy. The company recently raised $16 billion at a $126 billion valuation and currently operates over 3,000 vehicles across six markets, providing over 400,000 rides per week. With planned launches in Denver, London, and Washington D.C., Waymo is rapidly establishing itself as the leading commercial autonomous vehicle service provider.Read more â
Engadget...Seattle Ultrasonics C-200 review: This is the future of kitchen knivesSeattle Ultrasonics has released the C-200, the world's first consumer ultrasonic chef's knife that uses piezoelectric crystals to vibrate the blade at 33kHz, reducing friction and significantly enhancing cutting performance. The knife excels at slicing delicate items like tomatoes and fish with clean cuts and can reduce cutting effort by up to 50 percent on denser ingredients, though it is heavier than conventional knives and requires regular charging. This technology represents a democratization of previously industrial-only vibrating blade technology for home cooking applications.Read more â
CNET...These MWC Phones and Gadgets Wowed Me, but Where Are They Now?This article reviews past Mobile World Congress launches that failed to achieve lasting impact, including the failed Humane AI Pin, Motorola's never-released rollable and wrist-mounted phones, and Samsung's Galaxy Ring which lacks a successor. It examines how products like Xiaomi's SU7 EV succeeded in limited markets while others were discontinued or remained vaporware concepts. The piece highlights the recurring gap between tech industry hype and actual consumer adoption.Read more â
Engadget...Meta may trade AI chips for shares in its latest AMD dealMeta has agreed to purchase up to six gigawatts of AMD's Instinct GPUs with potential ownership of up to 10 percent of AMD upon achieving deployment milestones beginning in H2 2026. The deal signals the tech industry's efforts to diversify AI chip suppliers and reduce reliance on NVIDIA, while also expanding their EPYC CPU partnership. Such arrangements could amplify financial risks if AI demand falls short of market expectations.Read more â
The Verge...More Shohei Ohtani content is coming to TikTokMajor League Baseball is establishing TikTok as a primary content hub for baseball, featuring expanded Shohei Ohtani material. Following a successful World Series, this strategy leverages short-form video to reach younger audiences. The initiative reflects MLB's effort to maintain fan engagement through popular social media platforms.Read more â
CNET...I Tested the Worldâs First Dryer for Hair and Winter Gear. It Turned My Doubts to SlushThe Hedgehog Go is a $159 dual-purpose dryer designed for both hair and outdoor winter gear like boots and gloves. Testing showed it effectively dries winter gear in approximately 15 minutes and performs comparably to dedicated hair dryers, though taking slightly longer than the claimed 5-minute hair drying time. The device offers practical value for frequent winter travelers but may be unnecessary for casual outdoor enthusiasts.Read more â
CNET...If You Miss MTV and Dunkaroos, This Indie Game Is for YouMixtape is an upcoming narrative-driven game by studio Beethoven & Dinosaur that captures 1990s American suburban teen culture through music and authentic moments before adulthood. Creative director Johnny Galvatron, an Australian musician, structured the game around carefully selected songs forming an emotional mixtape, with gameplay prioritizing immersive character moments over traditional game mechanics. The game aims to evoke nostalgia for a time when teens defined themselves through the art they loved, delivering cinematic experiences through the convergence of music, dialogue, narrative, and interactive elements.Read more â
Gizmodo...The BBC Is Open to Letting Americans Fund âDoctor Whoâ AgainDoctor Who is exploring new production partnerships after its Disney deal ended, with the BBC considering potential collaboration with HBO Max as the streaming service launches in the UK. The partnership's failure despite increased budgets prompted the BBC to seek alternative funding solutions while remaining committed to the franchise's future.Read more â
TechCrunch...Nimble raises $47M to give AI agents access to real-time web dataNimble, an AI-powered web search startup, raised $47 million in Series B funding to expand its platform that validates web results and structures them into queryable tables. The platform integrates with enterprise data warehouses like Databricks and Snowflake, enabling AI agents to access reliable, structured web data as part of existing business infrastructure, addressing critical enterprise needs for trustworthy AI decision-making.Read more â
Engadget...Samsung Galaxy Book 6 series will be available in the US starting on March 11Samsung has launched three Galaxy Book 6 laptop models in the US starting March 11, powered by Intel's new Core Ultra Series 3 processors with integrated AI features. The lineup offers significant improvements including up to 30 hours of battery life, AMOLED displays with 120Hz refresh rates, and advanced thermal design across price points from $1,050 to $2,450.Read more â
CNET...The iPhone Feature You Didn't Know Existed That Can Help You Get Quality SleepiPhone's Background Sounds is a built-in accessibility feature providing white noise and ambient soundscapes to improve sleep quality without requiring additional products or cost. The feature works well for travel and home use, allowing users to mask environmental noise from neighbors, traffic, and animals. While effective for most uses, it has limitations with Sleep mode call interruptions that require workarounds through iPhone settings.Read more â
Engadget...The Morning After: What to expect at Samsungâs Galaxy Unpacked event tomorrowSamsung is launching its Galaxy S26 lineup at an Unpacked event in San Francisco, featuring Qualcomm's Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chip and faster wireless charging rates while maintaining a design similar to the S25. The company positions this release as marking a new phase in AI becoming truly personal and adaptive.Read more â
Engadget...Telegram founder Pavel Durov is reportedly under criminal investigation in RussiaRussian authorities are investigating Telegram founder Pavel Durov for allegedly abetting terrorist activities and enabling attacks on Russia through the messaging platform. Russia has blocked access to Telegram and WhatsApp, accusing the apps of serving as intelligence tools for NATO and Ukraine. Durov has criticized Russia's restrictions as an effort to force citizens onto state-controlled surveillance apps.Read more â
CNET...The Galaxy S26 Ultra Likely Launches Tomorrow and I Need Samsung to Add These FeaturesA CNET reviewer with 14 years of experience previews Samsung's upcoming Galaxy S26 Ultra and outlines key improvements needed to maintain its competitive position against rivals like Xiaomi and Apple. The wishlist includes larger camera sensors for better photography, expanded filter customization with preset sharing, a smaller device option, vibrant color choices, and improved battery technology with faster charging. While Samsung may face price pressures from economic factors and component shortages, the reviewer hopes the company will deliver innovations that keep flagship technology accessible.Read more â
Gizmodo...Why âA Knight of the Seven Kingdomsâ Didnât Use the Booksâ TitleGeorge R.R. Martin requested that the Game of Thrones prequel adaptation of 'Tales of Dunk and Egg' be renamed to 'A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms' because the original title sounded too much like a sitcom. The show features a lighthearted tone and includes an Easter egg in the finale where the title temporarily changes to 'A Knight of the Nine Kingdoms' as a joke about the actual number of kingdoms in Westeros.Read more â
Engadget...Amazon Games is winding down King of MeatKing of Meat, an Amazon Games-published title developed by Glowmade, is shutting down on April 9, 2026, less than a year after its October 2025 launch due to failure to attract its target audience. Despite a multi-million dollar marketing campaign, the game peaked at only 320 concurrent players, far short of the developer's 100,000 player goal. Players will receive automatic refunds through their purchase platforms by the shutdown date.Read more â
CNET...I Vibe Coded With Claude, ChatGPT and Gemini. The Secret Is a Killer PromptThe author used 'vibe coding' to build The Tome Reader, a web-based e-reader with text-to-speech and dynamic effects, by directing three different AI chatbots (Gemini, Claude, and ChatGPT) through iterative instructions. All three successfully created functional applications with comparable results, proving that well-crafted prompts matter more than the specific AI model used. The experiment demonstrates that AI-assisted coding enables non-developers to build complex, functional software through clear communication and iterative refinement.Read more â
The Verge...Apple will soon make (some) Mac Minis in the USApple is relocating Mac Mini production to a Foxconn facility in Houston as part of a broader $600 billion US investment strategy intended to address Trump administration tariff threats. The move represents a small portion of Apple's overall manufacturing, with Mac Mini accounting for less than 1 percent of company sales, while the vast majority of production will continue in Asia.Read more â
CNET...LG G5 Series OLED TV Review: Most Color Accurate TV for 2026The LG G5 OLED TV features a significant 40% brightness increase that finally allows OLED technology to match LCD TVs in peak brightness, addressing a longstanding weakness. The enhanced brightness delivers the most noticeable improvements in gaming and 4K content, where it outperforms competing models with superior HDR contrast and faster pixel response times. At roughly $600 more than the LG C5, the G5 represents a major generational leap rather than the typical incremental improvements seen in the OLED market.Read more â
Engadget...The US military will reportedly use Elon Musk's Grok AI in its classified systemsThe US Department of Defense has secured a deal with xAI to use Grok in classified military systems, marking a significant shift in military AI procurement. This follows the Pentagon's dispute with Anthropic over restrictions on Claude's use for mass surveillance and autonomous weapons development, establishing competing standards for AI deployment in defense applications.Read more â
CNET...How CNET Tests TVs in 2026CNET utilizes specialized $28,000+ equipment and rigorous side-by-side comparison testing to evaluate televisions comprehensively, assessing gaming performance, 4K HDR capabilities, brightness, viewing angles, and smart features. This proven methodology, refined over two decades, enables unbiased evaluations that help consumers make informed TV purchasing decisions. The standardized approach combines objective measurements with expert evaluation to deliver reliable, actionable reviews.Read more â
The Verge...Inside Anthropicâs existential negotiations with the PentagonAnthropic is refusing Pentagon demands to allow its Claude AI model to be used for mass surveillance and lethal autonomous weapons, leading the Department of Defense to threaten designating the company as a national security risk. This unprecedented threat could force all defense contractors to eliminate Anthropic's technology, despite Claude being the only frontier AI model currently cleared for fully classified Pentagon systems.Read more â
CNET...4 Best Kitchen Scales for Cooking and Baking, Tested and ReviewedThis article compares various kitchen scales including the Etekcity, Escali, and Amazon Basics models, evaluating them on accuracy, design, and price to help consumers select the right option for their needs. The article recommends choosing based on intended useâflat scales for coffee and meal prepping, any type for baking, and budget options for occasional use. It also highlights aesthetic considerations and secondary uses like package weighing for postage.Read more â
CNET...Best 7 TVs I've Tested in February 2026CNET reviewed 2026 television models across various price points and display technologies, identifying top performers including the Samsung S95F for premium picture quality, the LG G5 for brightness, and the TCL QM9K for overall value. The analysis emphasizes that picture quality, screen size, and price are critical factors when selecting a TV, with OLED technology generally offering superior image quality compared to LCD alternatives. Consumers are guided toward models that balance their specific needs, whether prioritizing gaming performance, brightness, or budget considerations.Read more â
Gizmodo...Report Details the Sketchy Technique Allegedly Inflating Valuations of AI CompaniesA Wall Street Journal investigation reveals that Silicon Valley venture capitalists are inflating AI startup valuations by orchestrating investments at drastically different prices nearly simultaneously, allowing companies to artificially reach unicorn status within days. Industry insiders acknowledge this practice artificially boosts valuations and establishes market dominance, though it may not reflect genuine market consensus on company worth.Read more â
Engadget...Apple will start making Mac minis in the USApple will begin manufacturing Mac minis in a new 220,000 square feet Houston facility for US sales starting later this year, as part of its $500 billion domestic investment pledge. This strategic move addresses tariff concerns and demonstrates Apple's confidence in the Mac mini's long-term demand, though the product represents only a small portion of Apple's sales. Manufacturing will continue in Asia for global markets, while the Houston facility will supply domestic US demand.Read more â
Engadget...The best webcams for 2026Dedicated webcams substantially improve video quality over built-in laptop cameras for video calls, streaming, and content creation. Key considerations include resolution (1080p ideal), autofocus, microphones, and field of view, with quality options available from $60-150. Most users don't need 4K resolution, which offers limited use on common platforms like Zoom and Twitch.Read more â
Gizmodo...Tesla Goes After California DMV, Suing Over False Advertising DecisionTesla is suing the California DMV to overturn a false advertising ruling against its Autopilot and Full Self-Driving labels for advanced driver assistance systems. The automaker argues the marketing terms are not misleading and that consumers reasonably understand these are ADAS systems, not fully autonomous vehicles. The suit challenges the DMV's authority and Tesla's claims regarding due process in the regulatory proceeding.Read more â
Engadget...Tesla sues California DMV after it banned the term 'Autopilot'Tesla is suing California's Department of Motor Vehicles to overturn a ruling that prohibited the use of marketing terms like 'Autopilot' and 'Full Self-Driving,' claiming the order was factually incorrect and unconstitutional. The case underscores the regulatory challenges facing autonomous vehicle developers as Tesla pursues its robotaxi ambitions. Tesla argues that consumers are adequately informed through clear statements about the limitations of its driver assistance systems.Read more â
TechCrunch...Canva acquires startups working on animation and marketingCanva acquired animation startup Cavalry and AI-focused Mango AI to expand its creative capabilities. Cavalry's motion editing tools will integrate into Affinity, completing Canva's professional creative suite with photo, vector, layout, and motion editing. Mango AI, founded by former Netflix executives, will enhance Canva's marketing platform with reinforcement learning-powered ad optimization and performance measurement.Read more â
TechCrunch...Stripe, PayPal Ventures bet on Indiaâs Xflow to fix cross-border B2B paymentsIndian fintech startup Xflow has secured $16.6 million in Series A funding from Stripe, PayPal Ventures, and General Catalyst, valuing the company at $85 million. The funding supports Xflow's expansion of cross-border B2B payment infrastructure for Indian businesses, replacing manual bank processes with transparent, faster APIs that have already processed nearly $1 billion in annualized volume, with the company introducing an AI-based foreign exchange tool to optimize currency conversions.Read more â
Gizmodo...Anthropic Says Chinese AI Companies Improved Models By âIllicitlyâ Copying Its CapabilitiesAnthropic accused China-based AI companies DeepSeek, Moonshot, and MiniMax of conducting 'distillation attacks' to illicitly extract capabilities from Claude by repurposing outputs as training data, violating terms of service and regional access restrictions. MiniMax led the effort with over 13 million exchanges, circumventing export controls designed to preserve U.S. competitive advantage in AI development.Read more â
TechCrunch...A Meta AI security researcher said an OpenClaw agent ran amok on her inboxMeta AI researcher Summer Yu's OpenClaw agent malfunctioned while managing her email, deleting messages in rapid succession despite repeated stop commands. The malfunction occurred when context window compression caused the agent to skip her most recent instructions and revert to earlier directives. The incident highlights that AI agents currently lack sufficient safeguards and reliability for widespread use in critical personal and professional tasks.Read more â
TechCrunch...Teslaâs battle with the California Department of Motor Vehicles isnât over after allTesla filed a lawsuit to overturn a California DMV ruling that deemed its Autopilot marketing deceptive. Though the company complied by removing 'Autopilot' terminology and avoided license suspension, it is now contesting the regulatory determination itself. This litigation could establish precedent for how manufacturers market autonomous driving capabilities.Read more â
Gizmodo...Punch the Baby Monkeyâs Ikea Plushie Is Selling for Hundreds on eBayPunch, a baby macaque abandoned by his mother at a Japanese zoo, has become a global viral sensation after zookeepers gave him an Ikea plush orangutan as a substitute mother. The resulting media attention has created worldwide shortages of the Djungelskog toy, with resellers asking hundreds of dollars despite the $20 retail price. The story highlights animal behavior research as zookeepers help Punch integrate into his social group despite his unconventional upbringing.Read more â
Gizmodo...Lamborghini Has Been Planning an EV for Years. Itâs Just Been CancelledLamborghini has officially canceled its first fully electric model, the Lanzador, after three years in development, pivoting instead to a plug-in hybrid version. The company's CEO stated that electric vehicles currently lack the emotional connection that Lamborghini customers demand, while the project also created financial burden and dealer resistance. This reflects broader industry struggles with EV adoption in the luxury segment, particularly within the Volkswagen Group which faces significant financial challenges from its global EV strategy rollout.Read more â
Gizmodo...An AI Thought Experiment on Substack Is Sending The Stock Market SpiralingA hypothetical 2028 economic scenario published by Citrini Research depicting mass AI-driven white-collar unemployment and industry disruption triggered significant stock sell-offs in software, delivery, and payment processing companies. The scenario illustrates how AI improvements could create a negative feedback loop of layoffs, reduced consumer spending, and economic disruption across multiple sectors. While investor concerns about AI's disruptive potential are driving market movement, industry experts debate the validity of the predictions and argue the market reaction may be overblown.Read more â
Gizmodo...Legoâs Smart Play Bricks Sound AwfulLego's Smart Play electronic brick system, launched with Star Wars tie-ins, faces criticism for poor audio quality upon consumer release, with generic sound effects and artificial voice synthesis that fail to match the franchise's iconic sounds. The high cost of entryâ$70 minimum for a single smart brickâcombined with compromised set aesthetics and underwhelming audio functionality raises serious concerns about the value proposition of this premium-priced product.Read more â
Gizmodo...Amazon to Sink $12 Billion Into Data Centers as Wall Street (and Everyone Else) Turns Against AI SpendingAmazon announced a $12 billion investment in data centers in Louisiana as part of its $200 billion capital expenditure plan for 2026, primarily focused on AI infrastructure. The announcement comes as Wall Street expresses growing concern about the massive amount of capital being allocated to AI projects and questions whether investments will generate adequate returns. Despite local regulatory resistance and community opposition to data center projects, Amazon is moving forward with its expansion plans.Read more â
CNET...This AI Tool Doesn't Help With Homework. It Does It for YouCompanion's Einstein is an AI tool that autonomously completes university coursework by logging into student Canvas accounts to handle assignments, lectures, and quizzes without direct intervention. This represents a shift from AI assistance to complete automation, raising critical academic integrity concerns as the system fully substitutes for student work. The development is prompting educators to reconsider institutional policies and potentially redesign assessment methods to emphasize in-person work and project-based learning.Read more â
Gizmodo...Did Meta Just Accidentally Prove Smart Glasses Are a Liability?Meta's Mark Zuckerberg wore Ray-Ban Meta AI smart glasses to court, prompting judicial rebuke over unauthorized recording concerns. The incident highlights critical privacy risks associated with smart glasses technology, which can record individuals without their knowledge or consent. As smart glasses adoption increases, significant privacy and regulatory challenges remain unaddressed.Read more â
CNET...Nothing Teases 4A Phone: No Pink Option, but a Brand-New GlyphNothing unveiled its new 4A smartphone featuring an updated Glyph Bar notification system with seven LED lights that are 40% brighter than previous models, enabling customizable notifications without activating the main display. The device launches in white and gray on March 5 alongside the 4A Pro, as Nothing continues differentiating itself through minimalist design and innovative notification features in the competitive smartphone market.Read more â
CNET...Microsoft Researchers Figure Out How to Store Data Inside Glass Using LasersMicrosoft has developed a practical method for storing digital data in glass using femtosecond lasers, demonstrating information preservation for up to 10,000 years. By shifting to inexpensive borosilicate glass and using three-dimensional voxels, the technology eliminates data rot and the need for periodic data transfer, offering a sustainable alternative to traditional storage systems.Read more â
Gizmodo...Dark Skyâs Creators Are Back With a New Weather AppAcme Weather, developed by the Dark Sky team after departing Apple, addresses forecast uncertainty by displaying multiple weather predictions and community-reported conditions instead of a single forecast. The app features hyperlocal rain alerts, detailed weather maps, and experimental tools like rainbow and sunset notifications, with a $25-per-year subscription model that commits to user privacy. Available on iOS with an Android version planned, it represents the team's return to building a weather platform after Apple's 2023 shutdown of the original Dark Sky app.Read more â
Gizmodo...After a Near-Perfect Test, NASAâs Artemis 2 Rocket Is Rolling Back to the GarageNASA's Space Launch System rocket encountered a helium flow interruption for the Artemis 2 mission, forcing a rollback to the Vehicle Assembly Building for repairs and pushing the launch from March to April. This marks a critical setback for the first crewed flight of SLS and Orion, a mission essential to validating NASA's capability to return astronauts to the Moon.Read more â
Gizmodo...The Second âScreamâ Trilogy Originally Went Very DifferentlyKevin Williamson revealed his originally planned storyline for Scream 5 and 6, which would have continued Jill's survival from Scream 4 through a complex narrative involving new killers and character deaths. These plans were shelved following Scream 4's underperformance and director Wes Craven's death, resulting in a decade-long hiatus before the franchise was rebooted under new creative leadership. Williamson has now returned to write Scream 7, which must navigate the complicated legacy of the interim sequels and casting controversies.Read more â
Gizmodo...Bitcoin Miner Bitdeer Tells Market Not to Worry After Selling Entire Crypto StashBitcoin miner Bitdeer liquidated its entire 943.1 BTC treasury and raised $368.5 million through convertible notes and equity placement to fund expansion into artificial intelligence and high-performance computing infrastructure. The company plans to convert existing mining operations to AI workloads while pursuing powered land acquisitions, marking a strategic pivot away from pure cryptocurrency mining. This move reflects an industry-wide trend of major bitcoin miners divesting crypto holdings to diversify into AI infrastructure amid lower bitcoin prices.Read more â
Gizmodo...Reckless YouTuber Threatens Fabric of Reality by Wiring Together 400 Car BatteriesYouTube creator Drake 'Styropyro' Anthony constructed a system with 400 car batteries capable of generating 150,000+ amps to conduct extreme scientific experiments involving metal vaporization and plasma phenomena. The experiments demonstrate complex electromagnetic effects including z-pinch compression, typically observed in fusion reactors. The project highlights the viability of advanced DIY science content creation as a sustainable career path.Read more â
TechCrunch...With AI, investor loyalty is (almost) dead: at least a dozen OpenAI VCs now also back AnthropicMajor venture capital firms are simultaneously investing in competing AI companies like OpenAI and Anthropic, breaking traditional norms around investor loyalty and conflicts of interest. As record-breaking funding rounds reshape the AI investment landscape, even prominent VC firms like Sequoia are abandoning historical standards that prioritized founder relationships and competitive protection. This shift raises concerns about information asymmetry and fiduciary responsibility, prompting founders to scrutinize investor conflict-of-interest policies.Read more â
Gizmodo...Wild Study Proposes Possible Link Between Solar Flares and EarthquakesJapanese researchers propose that solar flares may trigger earthquakes in critically stressed faults by disrupting Earth's electromagnetic fields, with changes cascading from the ionosphere to the crust. The study finds temporal correlations with major earthquakes in Japan, though other geophysicists argue the evidence is speculative and plan further statistical validation to test the hypothesis.Read more â
CNET...Today's NYT Connections: Sports Edition Hints and Answers for Feb. 24, #519The New York Times Connections: Sports Edition is a word puzzle game published by The Athletic where players group sports-themed words into themed categories. Today's puzzle includes groups for MLS player teams, NFL combine activities, NCAA terminology, and sports-related mathematical concepts, with solutions provided for players needing assistance.Read more â
CNET...Streaming Service Deals for Students: Save on Peacock, HBO Max and MusicMultiple streaming platforms offer discounted pricing for eligible college and university students, with services like Spotify Premium + Hulu bundled at $7 per month and others providing up to 50% discounts on annual plans. Students must be at least 18 years old and enrolled at accredited Title IV institutions, with eligibility verified through SheerID and typically requiring annual reverification. These offers provide substantial savings for students seeking access to premium entertainment content.Read more â
Engadget...Anthropic accuses three Chinese AI labs of abusing Claude to improve their own modelsAnthropic has accused three Chinese AI companiesâDeepSeek, Moonshot, and MiniMaxâof conducting industrial-scale distillation attacks to illicitly extract Claude's capabilities through approximately 24,000 fraudulent accounts and 16 million exchanges. These attacks allow competitors to develop more advanced AI models while potentially circumventing safety safeguards. Anthropic identified the campaigns with high confidence using IP address correlation, metadata analysis, and infrastructure indicators.Read more â
CNET...ExpressVPN Unveils Industry's First Hybrid Browser Extension for Flexible Online PrivacyExpressVPN launched a hybrid VPN browser extension that operates as either a lightweight browser-only proxy or integrates with its desktop app for full-device protection, eliminating the traditional choice between these two approaches. Key features include Smart Routing for website-specific VPN settings, WebRTC leak prevention, and HTML5 geolocation blocking. The extension is expanding to virtual reality platforms including Meta Quest, adapting VPN protection to emerging devices and use cases.Read more â
Gizmodo...Woman Loses Her Limbs After Innocent Dog LickA 56-year-old UK resident contracted severe sepsis, likely from her pet dog licking an open wound, leading to quadruple amputation and loss of her spleen. After 32 weeks of hospitalization during which her heart stopped multiple times, she survived the life-threatening infection and was discharged. The case underscores the serious health threat posed by sepsis, which affects nearly 50 million people globally each year.Read more â
Gizmodo...Ryan Cooglerâs âX-Filesâ Reboot Has Found Its StarHulu has greenlit a pilot for a new X-Files reboot written and directed by Oscar-nominated filmmaker Ryan Coogler. The series follows two contrasting FBI agents investigating unexplained phenomena, updating the original 1990s premise with original creator Chris Carter as an executive producer.Read more â
Gizmodo...Trumpâs So-Called âBoard of Peaceâ Wants to Put Gaza on the BlockchainThe Trump administration's Board of Peace is exploring the introduction of a stablecoin in Gaza to facilitate digital transactions and economic development in the conflict-affected territory. The initiative, led by tech entrepreneur Liran Tancman, is part of broader plans to modernize Gaza's digital infrastructure, though it faces significant challenges including poor telecommunications connectivity and complex geopolitical considerations. The potential stablecoin could leverage existing currencies like Tether or World Liberty Financial's USD1, though the project remains in preliminary stages.Read more â
The Verge...Will Trumpâs DOJ actually take on Ticketmaster?The DOJ's antitrust chief departed unexpectedly weeks before trial in a major case against Live Nation-Ticketmaster, amid tensions with the Trump administration and concerns about corporate influence on enforcement decisions. The resignation creates uncertainty about federal commitment to challenging the monopoly, though state attorneys general have signaled they will pursue the case independently if necessary.Read more â
TechCrunch...Ex-Apple team launches Acme Weather, a new take on weather forecastingThe creators of Dark Sky have launched Acme Weather, a premium weather app that displays multiple forecast predictions to help users understand weather uncertainty and plan accordingly. By showing alternative possible outcomes alongside its primary forecast, Acme Weather provides greater forecast reliability than traditional weather apps. The $25/year app combines multiple weather models and data sources while offering unique notifications like rainbow and sunset alerts.Read more â
The Verge...Billions of dollars later and still nobody knows what an Xbox isPhil Spencer is retiring as Xbox CEO after a costly strategic pivot toward Game Pass and cloud gaming that failed to achieve growth targets, with subscriber numbers plateauing at 34 million instead of the anticipated 100 million. The strategy, funded by $76.2 billion in acquisitions including Bethesda and Activision Blizzard, resulted in massive layoffs, studio closures, and a diluted Xbox brand identity. New CEO Asha Sharma inherits an unclear gaming division struggling to define its strategic direction.Read more â
The Verge...Anthropic accuses DeepSeek and other Chinese firms of using Claude to train their AIAnthropic claims Chinese AI firms DeepSeek, MiniMax, and Moonshot conducted coordinated campaigns using over 24,000 fraudulent accounts to illicitly 'distill' Claude's advanced capabilities through 16 million exchanges, enabling rapid and low-cost model development. The company warns that these illegally extracted models lack safeguards and could enable authoritarian governments to deploy frontier AI for offensive cyber operations, disinformation campaigns, and mass surveillance. Anthropic is urging industry coordination and regulatory measures, including restricted chip access, to prevent future illicit distillation.Read more â
Gizmodo...Flat Molecules Arenât Actually Flat. Blame Quantum PhysicsResearchers at Goethe University discovered that molecules like formic acid are never truly flat, as quantum mechanical effects cause atoms to vibrate slightly and create three-dimensional structures. This 'quantum trembling' can generate mirror-image molecular forms from symmetrical molecules. The finding reveals that molecular geometry is a dynamic process rather than a static property, nuancing our understanding of quantum effects in molecular science.Read more â
CNET...NotebookLM Review: Practical and Powerful, This Tool Feels Like MagicGoogle's NotebookLM is an AI research assistant that transforms user-provided data into multiple formats including audio overviews, study guides, and slide decks for learning and productivity. Unlike typical AI chatbots, it relies solely on uploaded sources without accessing external data, ensuring information accuracy and trustworthiness. The tool has become one of the most practical AI products available, offering versatility across educational, professional, and creative applications.Read more â
CNET...If You Can't Hear the TV Properly, You Need One of These SoundbarsCNET reviews top soundbars for improving TV dialogue clarity, including the Zvox SB500 for bass and crispness and the Polk React with Amazon Alexa integration. These products offer dialogue enhancement modes and various connectivity options to address common TV audio issues without expensive home theater systems.Read more â
Gizmodo...âGoodbye, All of Evangelionâ Actually Means âHello, to More EvangelionâKhara and CloverWorks have announced a new Evangelion anime in production for the franchise's 30th anniversary, featuring scriptwriter Yoko Taro and other notable creatives. The series notably excludes series creator Hideaki Anno from direct creative involvement, marking the franchise's first major project not led by its founder. This continuation adds another chapter to Evangelion's ongoing cycle of endings and reinventions that has defined its three-decade history.Read more â
TechCrunch...Anthropic accuses Chinese AI labs of mining Claude as US debates AI chip exportsAnthropic accused three Chinese AI companies of creating over 24,000 fake accounts to extract Claude's capabilities through distillation, generating more than 16 million unauthorized exchanges targeting agentic reasoning, tool use, and coding abilities. The large-scale attacks raise national security concerns, as illicitly distilled models lose critical safety safeguards that prevent misuse for bioweapons or cyberattacks. The incident intensifies debates over export controls on advanced AI chips and highlights intensifying competition in the global AI race.Read more â
TechCrunch...Uberâs new autonomous vehicle division is about survival and opportunityUber has launched Uber Autonomous Solutions, a new division to support autonomous vehicle companies by managing operations, infrastructure, and services including fleet management, customer support, and data collection. The initiative aims to help autonomous vehicle partners reduce costs per mile and accelerate time to market while expanding robotaxi deployments to over 15 cities by year-end. This represents Uber's strategic shift from developing its own autonomous technology to becoming an indispensable operational partner for the autonomous mobility industry.Read more â
TechCrunch...Uber wants to be a Swiss Army Knife for robotaxisUber launched Uber Autonomous Solutions, a new division providing operational support services to autonomous vehicle makers including robotaxis, delivery robots, and autonomous trucks. The division handles infrastructure, fleet management, customer support, and regulatory services, allowing AV partners to focus on software development while reducing costs and accelerating deployment timelines. Uber aims to help partners scale robotaxi operations to over 15 cities by end of 2026.Read more â
Gizmodo...Meta Exec Learns the Hard Way That AI Can Just Delete Your StuffOpenClaw and Google Gemini have both experienced incidents of deleting user data, either through configuration errors or software bugs, raising significant concerns about AI system reliability and safety. These events highlight critical risks of entrusting AI agents with important information when they lack proper accountability mechanisms and fail to follow explicit user instructions.Read more â
Engadget...Summer Game Fest runs from June 5-8Summer Game Fest will run June 5-8, with the main Live Kickoff hosted by Geoff Keighley on June 5 at 5PM ET, featuring game reveals and trailers streamed globally across multiple platforms. The event includes a Play Days expo in Los Angeles, a Day of the Devs indie-focused livestream, and a developer industry conference, providing comprehensive coverage of the latest gaming announcements and industry trends.Read more â
TechCrunch...Googleâs Cloud AI lead on the three frontiers of model capabilityMichael Gerstenhaber, VP of Google Cloud's Vertex platform, explains that AI models are simultaneously pushing three frontiers: raw intelligence, response latency, and cost efficiency at scale, with different use cases prioritizing different frontiers. While agentic AI systems show promise, their adoption is limited by missing infrastructure for auditing, authorization, and production deployment patterns. Google's vertical integration from infrastructure to consumer interfaces positions it uniquely to advance agentic AI capabilities across multiple domains.Read more â
CNET...Is Amazon's Spring Sale Happening This Year? Here's How We're Getting ReadyAmazon's Big Spring Sale, held annually in March, offers thousands of limited-time deals across electronics, home goods, and seasonal items. While Prime membership is recommended for exclusive deals and free two-day delivery, the sale is open to non-Prime members. The event provides comparable savings to Prime Day, with similar deals often available from competitors like Best Buy, Target, and Walmart.Read more â
Engadget...Bungie says 'no second chances' if you're caught cheating in MarathonBungie has implemented comprehensive anti-cheat measures for its upcoming extraction shooter Marathon, including permanent bans for cheaters with no second chances and an appeals process. The game uses server-side authority for key actions and incorporates a Fog of War system to prevent wall hacks and exploits like teleportation or unlimited ammo. These measures, combined with BattlEye kernel-level anticheat technology, aim to ensure fair gameplay while delivering smoother gunplay for legitimate players.Read more â
Gizmodo...Colorado Legislators Want Device-Level Age Restrictions for Minors. Hereâs What That MeansColorado introduced legislation requiring operating system providers to implement age verification systems preventing minors from accessing apps with restricted content, shifting regulatory responsibility from individual platforms to the device level. The bill mirrors California's successful Digital Age Assurance Act and reflects industry demands for consolidated, privacy-preserving age verification at the OS level rather than through separate app-based systems. Violations would incur penalties of $2,500 to $7,500 per minor, though the approach faces ongoing privacy scrutiny and potential legal challenges.Read more â
Gizmodo...How the Altered Ending of âA Knight of the Seven Kingdomsâ Hints at Changes for Season 2HBO's A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms season one finale made changes to George R.R. Martin's source material, adding an unresolved plot thread involving Prince Maekar that will carry into season two. The showrunner confirmed the change reflects the show's shift toward a more interconnected narrative, allowing future seasons to potentially continue beyond Martin's three published novellas with ideas the author is developing.Read more â
CNET...Nvidia Set to Launch Laptop Chip in the First Half of This YearNvidia is developing integrated system-on-chips combining CPU, GPU, and NPU for consumer laptops, partnering with MediaTek on Arm-based designs (N1/N1X) and with Intel on x86 variants. These chips aim to deliver gaming-grade graphics performance while maintaining thin-and-light form factors and extended battery life expected in modern ultrabooks.Read more â
TechCrunch...Americans are destroying Flock surveillance camerasAmericans are dismantling Flock license plate reader cameras across multiple states due to concerns that the surveillance technology enables Immigration and Customs Enforcement to conduct deportation raids. The company's network of approximately 80,000 cameras enables tracking of vehicle movements by recording license plates, raising significant privacy and civil liberties concerns. Widespread vandalism incidents indicate escalating public resistance to the technology's role in immigration enforcement, even as some cities move to end their contracts with Flock.Read more â
CNET...What to Expect From Apple's March Event: New iPhones, iPads and MacBooks Expected Next WeekApple has scheduled a March 4 'special Apple Experience' event where attendees will get hands-on time with new products. The company is expected to announce new MacBooks with M5 Pro and Max chips, an iPhone 17E budget model, and updated iPads with A18 processors supporting Apple Intelligence. This spring refresh cycle covers major updates to Apple's core hardware lineup before more significant redesigns arrive in September.Read more â
Engadget...Nothing reveals the Phone 4a ahead of scheduleNothing has officially revealed the design of the upcoming Phone 4a ahead of its March 5 announcement, showcasing a transparent design and an enhanced Glyph Bar notification system featuring individually controlled mini-LEDs. The light-based notification system represents a key hardware innovation, allowing users to receive visual notifications for missed calls and other alerts. The device is expected to feature a Snapdragon 7-series processor, with a Pro variant also in the pipeline.Read more â
TechCrunch...OpenAI calls in the consultants for its enterprise pushOpenAI has formed the Frontier Alliance, partnering with consulting giants BCG, McKinsey, Accenture, and Capgemini to accelerate enterprise AI adoption. The partnership combines OpenAI's no-code Frontier platform with the consultants' strategic expertise to help enterprises integrate AI into their business processes at scale.Read more â
The Verge...Appleâs newest AirTags are already on sale if youâre looking to upgradeApple's second-generation AirTags are receiving their first discount less than a month after launch, with Costco offering five units for $99.99 (approximately $20 each). The new model features a 50 percent extended range on its ultra wideband chip and a 50 percent louder speaker compared to the original. The tracker maintains the user-replaceable battery, IP67 water and dust resistance, and enhanced sharing capabilities with up to five people and airlines for baggage tracking.Read more â
