Engadget...Hades 2 is coming to Xbox Series X/S and PS5 on April 14Hades 2, the acclaimed roguelite action RPG, is coming to Xbox Series X/S, PS5, and Xbox Cloud on April 14 with Xbox Game Pass support. Players will control Melinoë, the protagonist's sister, featuring enhanced mobility mechanics and area-of-effect focused combat. This multi-platform release expands access to one of 2025's most celebrated games.Read more →
Engadget...The EU is investigating Snapchat over possible child protection breachesThe European Union has opened a formal investigation into whether Snapchat complies with Digital Services Act child safety requirements, citing concerns over inadequate age verification, insufficient content reporting mechanisms, and easy access to illegal drug information. The investigation challenges Snapchat's ability to protect minors from grooming and criminal exploitation on its platform. This regulatory scrutiny could result in substantial fines and mandatory changes to the platform's safety infrastructure.Read more →
Engadget...Serious Sam: Shatterverse will hit Xbox platforms this yearSerious Sam: Shatterverse reimagines the classic FPS franchise as a co-op roguelite experience for up to five players, developed by Behavior Interactive. The title is launching on Xbox Series X/S, PC, and Xbox Cloud Gaming later in 2026, featuring the series' signature humor alongside roguelite upgrade mechanics.Read more →
Engadget...Sanders and Ocasio-Cortez introduce a bill to pause US data center constructionSenators Bernie Sanders and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez introduced the Artificial Intelligence Data Center Moratorium Act, which would pause new data center construction until federal AI regulations are enacted. The bill addresses critical concerns about AI-driven layoffs (54,000+ in 2024), environmental risks, mass surveillance, and deepfakes. The moratorium would remain in place until laws are passed ensuring AI safety, wealth sharing with workers, environmental standards, and community control over facility construction.Read more →
The Verge...Xbox’s latest games showcase had Hades 2, The Expanse, and BlueyMicrosoft held its Partner Preview event showcasing upcoming games from third-party developers, with the headline announcement that Hades II will arrive on Xbox and PS5 on April 14th. The event revealed a diverse lineup of games spanning multiple genres, including action RPGs, farming sims, platformers, and shooters with release dates ranging from 2026 through 2027. The announcements demonstrate Microsoft's continued focus on expanding its game portfolio despite recent leadership changes at the company.Read more →
Engadget...Wikipedia has banned AI-generated articlesEnglish Wikipedia has banned generative AI for writing and rewriting articles, citing violations of core content policies, though limited exceptions allow editors to refine their own work and assist with translation if accuracy-checked. The decision represents a pushback against corporate AI promotion and seeks to empower communities to determine AI's role in their platforms. Individual Wikipedia editions maintain independent policy authority, with some implementing stricter total prohibitions on LLM use.Read more →
Gizmodo...Study Challenges Popular Theory on Why Primordial Bugs Were So Darn HugeA new study challenges the 30-year scientific consensus that high atmospheric oxygen enabled giant insects to evolve 350 million years ago. Researchers discovered that insect flight muscles are not constrained by atmospheric oxygen levels and that tracheal systems could theoretically support much larger body sizes by increasing their oxygen delivery capacity. The findings suggest that the true reason for ancient insect gigantism, and why such insects no longer exist, remains an unsolved mystery.Read more →
The Verge...My brief, weird time with the Samsung TriFoldSamsung's discontinued Galaxy Z TriFold proves impractical for mainstream use due to its bulk, weight, poor app optimization, and lack of proper stand support, offering little advantage over traditional foldables like the Z Fold 7 to justify its premium price. The discontinuation signals that tri-folding phones remain experimental concept devices rather than viable consumer products, with better execution needed before mainstream adoption.Read more →
TechCrunch...Apple made strides with iOS 26 security, but leaked hacking tools still leave millions exposed to spyware attacksCybersecurity researchers have documented broad-scale hacking campaigns using leaked iOS tools (Coruna and DarkSword) that primarily target older iPhone versions, with the exploits now available online. The leaked tools have enabled widespread attacks from state-sponsored actors and cybercriminals, challenging long-held assumptions that iPhone hacks are rare. This creates a two-tier security landscape where users on the latest iOS 26 with memory integrity protections are significantly more secure than those running older iOS versions.Read more →
Gizmodo...Ewan McGregor and Anne Hathaway’s Mystery’s Sci-Fi Film Has Its First TrailerWarner Bros. unveiled the trailer for 'The End of Oak Street,' a sci-fi thriller directed by David Robert Mitchell and starring Ewan McGregor and Anne Hathaway, following months of speculation about the initially mysterious title. The film follows a suburban neighborhood mysteriously transported to an unknown location, forcing the Platt family to navigate unrecognizable surroundings for survival. The movie arrives in theaters on August 14.Read more →
CNET...Brazil vs. France Livestream: How to Watch International Friendly Soccer From AnywhereBrazil and France compete in a World Cup warm-up friendly on March 26 at Gillette Stadium, available on ESPN (US) and ITV (UK). Brazil seeks a record-extending sixth World Cup title despite weak qualifying results, while France enters as tournament favorites following a dominant qualifying campaign. Key storylines include Brazil's controversial omission of Neymar and France's absence of injured PSG star Bradley Barcola.Read more →
Gizmodo...Scientists Just Found the Salt Limit That Pushes Your Heart to the Breaking PointA Vanderbilt University study of over 25,000 participants found that consuming approximately 4,200 milligrams of sodium daily—nearly twice the recommended maximum—is associated with a 15% higher risk of heart failure. Even modest reductions in sodium intake could meaningfully reduce the incidence of heart failure, particularly in resource-limited communities where processed foods are prevalent.Read more →
Gizmodo...White House Social Media Just Had Its Covfefe MomentThe White House posted two cryptic four-second videos to social media Wednesday night, with the first being deleted after 90 minutes while the second garnered over 15 million views. The videos' purpose remains unclear, with theories ranging from a government text alert service teaser to deliberate trolling, and misinformation about the videos depicting a nuclear strike warning spread widely despite being false. The incident reflects the Trump administration's established pattern of posting bizarre or provocative content on social media platforms.Read more →
CNET...I Used to Tell People to Skip Wi-Fi 7 Routers. CNET's Lab Testing Changed My MindAfter testing 34 routers, CNET recommends tri-band Wi-Fi 7 routers as the best upgrade for home networks, delivering approximately 2.4x faster speeds than Wi-Fi 6E models at prices under $200. The upgrade is increasingly important given rising household bandwidth consumption and a regulatory ban on foreign-made routers announced March 25 that may affect future software updates.Read more →
CNET...Best Mesh Wi-Fi Routers for 2026: Our Top Picks After Testing Range and SpeedCNET employs rigorous, independent laboratory testing to evaluate Wi-Fi routers across speed, reliability, and range, using custom equipment to bypass internet provider variables and ensure accurate performance measurements. The testing methodology includes data throughput analysis across multiple frequency bands and signal strength mapping in realistic interference-filled environments. The article provides detailed performance comparisons of popular mesh router models to help consumers select systems matching their specific needs and budget.Read more →
The Verge...Govee’s color-changing smart lamps are on sale for up to 30 percent offSpeaking from experience, better lighting can completely change how a space feels. Over the years, I’ve filled my apartment with Govee’s color-changing lights, and they’ve made it feel calmer and more cheerful. That’s why it’s worth noting that a couple of its table lamps are on sale as part of Amazon’s Big Spring Sale, including […]Read more →
Gizmodo...This $450 Semi-Dumb Phone Is Barely Even a PhoneMeadow is a new device positioned between dumb phones and smartphones, offering calling, texting, and limited apps while blocking social media and email distractions. The device restricts communication to 12 whitelisted contacts, costs $450 with a $10/month subscription, positioning it as a premium solution for users seeking to reduce smartphone addiction.Read more →
TechCrunch...Google is launching Search Live globallyGoogle is expanding its AI-powered conversational search feature, Search Live, to over 200 countries and territories globally using its new Gemini 3.1 Flash Live model. The feature enables users to point their phone camera at objects to receive real-time visual assistance through natural audio-based conversations. Google is also expanding real-time translation capabilities to iOS and additional countries, making AI-assisted visual search and translation accessible to users worldwide.Read more →
Gizmodo...Startup Successfully Ignites World’s First Fusion RocketPulsar Fusion achieved a major breakthrough by demonstrating plasma confinement in its Sunbird fusion rocket test system, validating core technology for nuclear propulsion. The Sunbird spacecraft tug would dramatically reduce Mars transit times from ten months to under six months by providing continuous high-thrust propulsion. This milestone brings fusion-powered interplanetary travel closer to reality, with in-orbit component testing planned for 2027.Read more →
The Verge...Meta gets ready to launch two new Ray-Ban AI glassesRay-Ban Meta has received FCC approval for two new smart glasses models, 'Scriber' and 'Blazer,' signaling their imminent release to consumers. The FCC clearance indicates these devices are ready for market launch and will bring advanced wearable technology to the mainstream consumer base.Read more →
TechCrunch...Silicon Valley’s two biggest dramas have intersected: LiteLLM and DelveA critical malware vulnerability in LiteLLM, a widely-used open source AI model access tool with 3.4 million daily downloads, stole login credentials through a compromised dependency in a supply chain attack. The malware spread credentials across multiple packages and accounts before being discovered within hours by a security researcher. The incident raised questions about compliance certification value, as LiteLLM displayed SOC2 and ISO 27001 certifications despite the breach.Read more →
Gizmodo...Humans Were Already Dog People 16,000 Years Ago, DNA SuggestsScientists analyzing ancient dog genomes from 14,000-16,000 years ago have pushed back the earliest known domestication of dogs by over 5,000 years, revealing that dogs were widely distributed across western Eurasia and shared among diverse hunter-gatherer communities. Archaeological evidence including ceremonial burials and feeding patterns indicates that dogs held significant cultural and practical importance to these ancient societies. The findings suggest that when farming communities later migrated into Europe, they incorporated rather than replaced local dog populations, demonstrating the deep historical significance of the human-dog relationship.Read more →
Engadget...EU says Pornhub and others failed to stop minors accessing adult contentThe European Commission found that four adult content platforms—Pornhub, Stripchat, XNXX, and XVideos—inadequately protect minors from accessing harmful content, relying only on self-declared age verification. The investigation determined the platforms breached the Digital Services Act by failing to implement robust risk assessments and privacy-preserving age verification systems. Companies now face potential fines up to six percent of their global annual turnover if non-compliance is confirmed.Read more →
CNET...Italy vs. Northern Ireland: Watch World Cup 2026 Playoff Semifinal for FreeItaly takes on Northern Ireland in a FIFA World Cup qualifying playoff semifinal, seeking to end a 12-year absence from soccer's premier tournament. Coming off six straight wins under new coach Gennaro Gattuso, Italy must win to advance to the next playoff round. The winner will face either Wales or Bosnia and Herzegovina in the decisive playoff final.Read more →
CNET...Czech Republic vs. Republic of Ireland: Watch World Cup 2026 Playoff Semifinal for FreeThe Czech Republic faces the Republic of Ireland in a FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier semifinal playoff on March 26, with the winner advancing to a home playoff final. Ireland enters the match favored after three consecutive victories in Group F, including a notable win over Portugal, while the Czech Republic seeks to recover from a disappointing group stage that included a loss to the Faroe Islands.Read more →
Gizmodo...California Regulator Says Tesla’s ‘Robotaxis’ Are More Like a Limo in the Eyes of the LawTesla's Robotaxi service in California is regulated as a chauffeured car service under a charter party carrier permit, rather than a true autonomous vehicle operation. The company's level 2 autonomous technology does not meet California's regulatory definition of autonomous vehicles, which requires level 3 or higher, exempting Tesla from reporting detailed operational safety data required of competitors Waymo and Zoox.Read more →
Engadget...AMD's Ryzen 9950X3D2 chip features an incredible 208MB of on-chip cacheAMD unveiled the Ryzen 9950X3D2 Dual Edition, its first desktop processor with 3D V-Cache technology on both chiplets, delivering 208MB total on-chip cache for enhanced gaming and creative workload performance. The 16-core Zen 5-based processor increases to 200W TDP and offers five to 10 percent performance gains in applications like Unreal Engine, Blender, and DaVinci Resolve. The dual V-Cache design positions more game data and working data directly adjacent to CPU cores, benefiting both gamers and content creators.Read more →
The Verge...Everyone hates Ticketmaster. Why’d Trump go easy on them?The Department of Justice settled its antitrust lawsuit against Live Nation-Ticketmaster under the Trump administration with weak concessions, disappointing antitrust advocates. While the federal case concluded, state attorneys general continue pursuing separate claims against the company for alleged monopolistic control of ticketing, promotion, and venue operations. The settlement raises questions about the Trump administration's antitrust enforcement direction and implications for ongoing cases against major technology companies.Read more →
Gizmodo...The ‘Tales from ’85’ Trailer Wants You Back in ‘Stranger Things’ AlreadyNetflix is launching Stranger Things: Tales from '85, an animated interquel series set between seasons two and three where the main characters discover the Upside Down threat persists despite being sealed. The series features new voice actors and premieres April 23 with both streaming and theatrical releases. This animated continuation extends the franchise while avoiding casting challenges associated with aging live-action actors.Read more →
TechCrunch...ByteDance’s new AI video generation model, Dreamina Seedance 2.0, comes to CapCutByteDance is launching its Dreamina Seedance 2.0 audio and video generation model through CapCut, with a phased rollout in select markets to address intellectual property concerns. The model enables creators to generate, edit, and sync video and audio content using text prompts, images, or reference videos, supporting clips up to 15 seconds with realistic rendering of movement and lighting. The company has implemented safety measures including face-detection restrictions and invisible watermarking to prevent copyright infringement.Read more →
The Verge...Wikipedia bans AI-generated articlesWikipedia has banned editors from using AI to write or rewrite articles, citing violations of the platform's core content policies. The new policy for English Wikipedia still permits limited AI use for copyediting suggestions and article translations under strict guidelines. This action addresses the growing problem of AI-generated content that the Wikipedia community has been combating through initiatives like WikiProject AI Cleanup.Read more →
TechCrunch...Why hiring the weirdos worksBland's CEO shares unconventional hiring strategies that prioritize passion and obsession over traditional credentials, enabling the voice AI startup to grow from pre-seed to Series B in just 10 months with a 75-person team. The company successfully identifies talented developers outside traditional tech backgrounds by focusing on their intrinsic motivation and ability to deliver outcomes, though this approach becomes harder to scale as the company grows.Read more →
The Verge...Senators are pushing to find out how much electricity data centers actually useSenators Elizabeth Warren and Josh Hawley have urged the Energy Information Administration to collect comprehensive annual energy-use data from data centers to support accurate grid planning and prevent electricity cost increases for consumers. This move is part of a growing bipartisan effort addressing concerns that data center expansion is contributing to rising electricity costs, with parallel bills being introduced to slow construction and increase transparency. Various state and federal legislative proposals are under consideration, including construction moratoria and mandatory energy disclosure requirements.Read more →
Gizmodo...DJI Now Has a Cheaper 360 Drone Than Insta360, but the U.S. Won’t Get ItDJI introduced the Avata 360, a dual-lens 360-degree camera drone capable of 8K video capture at 60fps, priced significantly lower than competitors starting at approximately $530. The drone integrates with existing DJI controllers, reducing upgrade costs for current users, but remains unavailable for U.S. purchase, currently limited to the Chinese market with international pre-orders.Read more →
TechCrunch...A major hacking tool has leaked online, putting millions of iPhones at risk. Here’s what you need to knowAdvanced hacking toolkits Coruna and DarkSword have emerged to compromise iPhones and iPads by stealing sensitive data including messages, location history, and cryptocurrency. After DarkSword code was leaked on GitHub, potentially hundreds of millions of devices running outdated iOS versions are now at significant risk, with the exploit becoming easily deployable by malicious actors.Read more →
Gizmodo...What Do You Mean Fox McCloud Is in the ‘Super Mario Galaxy’ MovieFox McCloud from Star Fox will appear in The Super Mario Galaxy Movie, bringing the character into the Mario cinematic universe as part of Illumination's successful film adaptation strategy. The inclusion capitalizes on the Galaxy game's sci-fi space theme and follows the first Mario movie's billion-dollar success. This represents a rare mainstream opportunity for the Star Fox franchise, which has struggled to maintain relevance in recent decades despite nostalgia from classic titles.Read more →
The Verge...Why a two-seater robotaxi makes more sense than you thinkTesla and Lucid Motors are developing two-seat robotaxis despite initial skepticism, with the Lucid Lunar concept recently unveiled alongside partnership announcements with Uber and Nuro. These vehicles address ride-hailing fleet economics: over 90 percent of Uber rides involve just one or two passengers, making smaller, lighter designs significantly cheaper to operate. Two-seat robotaxis achieve superior energy efficiency (5.5-6 mi/kWh versus 4.4 mi/kWh for current most efficient EVs) through reduced battery capacity and optimization for autonomous driving rather than consumer performance demands.Read more →
Engadget...How to use Apple's Playlist Playground to make AI-generated mixesApple Music's Playlist Playground, available in iOS 26.4, uses AI to generate personalized playlists from user prompts, trending data, and listening history without requiring Apple Intelligence-capable devices. The feature is available to US Apple Music subscribers in English and functions across all Apple devices, allowing users to edit and customize AI-generated playlists.Read more →
TechCrunch...Conntour raises $7M from General Catalyst, YC to build an AI search engine for security video systemsConntour, an AI-powered video surveillance startup, raised $7 million in seed funding to scale its vision-language model-based platform that enables natural language search of camera footage in real-time. The system efficiently monitors thousands of camera feeds simultaneously, allowing security personnel to query footage using natural language to detect objects, people, and situations. The company emphasizes ethical client selection amid broader industry debates over privacy and surveillance practices.Read more →
Engadget...HBO Max finally launches in the UK and IrelandHBO Max has launched in the UK and Ireland with three subscription tiers (£5-£15/month), completing its European expansion. The service offers premium content including major franchises like The Lord of the Rings and Harry Potter alongside HBO Original shows, plus TNT Sports featuring Premier League and Champions League matches. Integration with Sky TV and NOW Entertainment provides bundled access for existing UK subscribers.Read more →
TechCrunch...Cohere launches an open-source voice model specifically for transcriptionCohere launched Transcribe, an open-source speech recognition model with 2 billion parameters designed for consumer-grade GPUs, supporting 14 languages. The model outperforms competitors on the Hugging Face Open ASR leaderboard with a 5.42 word error rate and achieved a 61% win rate in human evaluations for transcription accuracy. Cohere plans to integrate Transcribe into its North platform and make it available through its API and Model Vault managed inference platform.Read more →
CNET...Don't Wait on iOS 26.4 — It Might Help Your iPhone TyposApple released iOS 26.4 with an AI-powered Playlist Playground that generates custom music playlists based on user preferences, along with improved keyboard accuracy and eight new emojis. The update adds local concert discovery in Apple Music and video podcast viewing capabilities. Key improvements target music discovery, typing experience, and content accessibility.Read more →
CNET...A Humanoid Robot Visits the White House to Push AI for Teaching KidsMelania Trump unveiled a Figure 03 humanoid robot at a White House education summit as a tool to personalize student learning through AI-powered instruction. The initiative proposes placing these $25,000 robots in homes and classrooms to enhance critical thinking and adapt to individual student needs. However, critics fear the technology could replace human teachers and diminish essential human connection in education.Read more →
The Verge...Some of our favorite Apple tech is cheaper than ever during Amazon’s Big Spring SaleAmazon's Big Spring Sale largely excludes Apple products from major discounts, though select items including first-generation AirTags, Apple Watch SE, and M4 iPad Air have reached their lowest prices to date. The article catalogs deals across Apple's full ecosystem spanning earbuds, smartwatches, tablets, and laptops, with pricing available across Amazon, Best Buy, Walmart, and other retailers.Read more →
CNET...WhatsApp's New Update Makes it Easier to Switch Phones, Free Up StorageWhatsApp is introducing a wireless chat transfer feature that simplifies moving conversation history from iPhone to Android via local Wi-Fi, eliminating the need for cables or third-party apps. The update also enables dual account management on iPhone and adds AI-powered photo editing tools powered by Meta, allowing users to remove objects, change backgrounds, or apply styles before sending. These features aim to improve device switching ease, account flexibility, and storage management across iOS and Android platforms.Read more →
CNET...43 of the Best Movies on Netflix You Should Stream NowNetflix solidified its position as a major entertainment force with six original films earning 18 Oscar nominations and winning seven awards at the 2026 Academy Awards. The platform offers a diverse library of award-winning films spanning multiple genres, from animated features to documentaries and dramas, providing viewers with acclaimed entertainment options to stream.Read more →
Gizmodo...Diablo Cody Has Big Plans for the ‘Jennifer’s Body’ SequelThe entertainment industry is advancing multiple major projects including Netflix's live-action Gundam movie, horror sequels (They Follow, Jennifer's Body 2), and MCU productions. Creatives are pushing content boundaries and pursuing ambitious visions, signaling strong industry momentum in streaming and IP adaptation across studios.Read more →
Gizmodo...Sonos Play Review: Call It a ComebackSonos launches the Play, a $299 portable Bluetooth speaker that bridges the gap between home audio systems and on-the-go listening through Wi-Fi integration and app-based controls. Competing with Bose's SoundLink Plus, the Play offers superior sound quality and ecosystem features like voice control and room tuning when connected to a home network. The speaker features 24-hour battery life, IP67 waterproofing, and a replaceable battery, making it Sonos's strategic entry into the premium portable speaker market.Read more →
Gizmodo...Sonos Era 100 SL Review: The Cheapest Way Into Wired Sonos SoundSonos released the Era 100 SL, a $189 wireless speaker offering the same audio quality as the Era 100 at a lower price by removing the built-in microphone. The speaker delivers solid sound with clear mids and punchy bass, integrates seamlessly into Sonos systems, and supports Trueplay tuning through an iPhone workaround. For users expanding their Sonos ecosystem affordably without requiring voice assistant features, the Era 100 SL provides strong value with comparable functionality to its pricier counterpart.Read more →
The Verge...Webtoon is adding AI localization tools to its comics platformWebtoon announced major enhancements to its Canvas platform, including an AI-powered translation tool that localizes comics into seven languages and an updated analytics dashboard. These features aim to help creators expand their global audience and increase revenue opportunities while maintaining creative control. The optional translation functionality uses a combination of Webtoon's proprietary language model and external LLMs, with human quality assurance for translated content.Read more →
The Verge...The versatile Play speaker is a great way into the Sonos worldSonos released the Play, a new $299 portable speaker that bridges the gap between its smaller Roam 2 and larger Move 2 models, offering 24-hour battery life and full Sonos ecosystem integration. The device delivers clear audio with strong vocals and instruments, though it overemphasizes midrange and treble frequencies that can sound forward at higher volumes. The Play is positioned as the most versatile Sonos speaker for both expanding existing home systems and serving as a portable Bluetooth speaker for on-the-go use.Read more →
TechCrunch...WhatsApp can now draft AI-generated responses based on your conversationsWhatsApp is rolling out AI-powered suggested replies and enhanced Writing Help features to assist users in composing messages, alongside Meta AI-powered photo editing capabilities. The update also includes practical improvements such as selective file deletion for storage management and cross-platform chat history transfer between iOS and Android. These enhancements position WhatsApp to increase user reliance on Meta's in-app AI technology for messaging and content creation.Read more →
Engadget...Sonos Play review: The company's best portable speaker so farSonos has released the Play, a $299 portable speaker designed to serve as the company's comeback product after struggling with a failed app update and executive leadership changes. The Play offers a unique combination of Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity with sound quality nearly matching Sonos's larger Era 100, making it a versatile option positioned between the more expensive Move 2 and budget Roam models. With strong battery life, water resistance, and a wireless charging base, the Play positions Sonos to rebuild customer confidence in its brand.Read more →
Engadget...March Madness 2026: How to watch the Sweet 16 and Elite Eight this weekendThe 2026 NCAA basketball tournaments (March Madness) begin this week with games available across multiple streaming platforms including CBS, ESPN, HBO Max, and specialty apps. Various viewing options are available, ranging from free CBS games to bundled subscription services costing as little as $25 for complete coverage. The article provides schedules, costs, and detailed guidance for streaming both the men's and women's tournaments across different networks and devices.Read more →
Engadget...WhatsApp rolls out updates including multiple accounts for iOSWhatsApp has launched multiple quality-of-life updates including dual account support on iOS, improved chat history transfer between devices and platforms, and enhanced file management capabilities. The platform also integrated Meta AI features for photo editing, background removal, and writing assistance while maintaining chat privacy. These updates aim to improve user experience across different devices and ecosystems while simplifying device upgrades and storage management.Read more →
The Verge...EU backs nude app ban and delays to landmark AI rulesEuropean lawmakers voted to delay key compliance deadlines in the EU AI Act, pushing high-risk AI system requirements from August 2026 to December 2027, with sector-specific rules extended to August 2028. The Parliament also approved proposals to ban nudify apps in response to deepfake concerns. These extensions create continued regulatory uncertainty for EU businesses pending final negotiations with the European Council.Read more →
CNET...I Want Apple to Steal These Android Camera Features for the iPhone 18 ProThe iPhone 17 Pro's camera system is competitive but faces strong competition from rivals like Xiaomi's Leitzphone. A professional photographer and tech reviewer recommends Apple adopt several advanced features for the iPhone 18 Pro, including larger sensors with LOFIC technology, continuous telephoto zoom, improved macro photography, and dedicated camera accessories. These enhancements would address gaps in the current system and help Apple maintain leadership in smartphone photography.Read more →
CNET...Nintendo's $20 Switch 2 Upgrade for Super Mario Wonder Is Worth It for the ExtrasNintendo released a $20 DLC pack for Super Mario Bros. Wonder on Switch 2, introducing multiplayer-focused party modes supporting up to 12 online or 4 local players with new miniboss challenges and training modes. The update emphasizes cooperative gameplay over single-player content, making it appealing primarily for families and multiplayer enthusiasts. While lacking a truly new mainline Mario title, the DLC represents one of the strongest Switch 2 add-ons released to date.Read more →
Gizmodo...Watch James Cameron Get Really Hands-On Filming ‘Avatar: Fire and Ash’Avatar: Fire and Ash releases digitally on March 31 and on physical media on May 19, featuring extensive behind-the-scenes special content. The home release includes comprehensive documentaries documenting the production process, from writing and design to motion capture and visual effects, showcasing cutting-edge 3D filmmaking techniques. Supplementary content includes language tutorials, a Miley Cyrus music video, and a tribute to producer Jon Landau.Read more →
Engadget...DJI Avata 360 drone review: 360 video hits new highsDJI released the Avata 360, a 360-degree drone equipped with dual 8K cameras, subject tracking, and obstacle avoidance that directly competes with Insta360's Antigravity A1. The drone prioritizes safety for flying around people with shielded propellers and comprehensive sensors while providing both 360-degree and conventional 4K shooting modes. Though video quality is lower than traditional DJI drones due to stitching requirements, the Avata 360 offers greater creative flexibility and undercuts the competition on price.Read more →
The Verge...DJI’s Avata 360 is a more functional, flexible 360 droneDJI unveils the Avata 360, a 360-degree camera drone that outperforms competitor Antigravity's A1 with faster speeds, extended range, superior video quality, and user-replaceable lenses at a lower price point. The drone cannot be officially sold in the US due to FCC restrictions on DJI products but will ship globally starting April from $540. The Avata 360 represents a strong market option for international consumers, though regulatory barriers limit its availability in the American market.Read more →
TechCrunch...A ‘pound of flesh’ from data centers: one senator’s answer to AI job lossesEntry-level job postings have dropped 35% since 2023 amid concerns that AI advancement is displacing workers, with major firms citing AI's ability to perform tasks previously assigned to junior employees. Senator Mark Warner is proposing a data center tax to fund worker transition and retraining programs, as public approval of AI reaches record lows. The proposal reflects growing tension between the industry's need for data center expansion and community concerns about job displacement and environmental costs.Read more →
The Verge...OpenAI shelves erotic chatbot 'indefinitely'OpenAI has indefinitely paused an 'adult mode' feature for ChatGPT following internal and external opposition regarding the potential societal harms of sexualized AI content. This decision reflects a broader strategic shift toward core product focus, with the company also discontinuing its text-to-video platform Sora amid competitive pressure from rivals like Google and Anthropic. OpenAI plans to conduct extended research on the long-term psychological and child safety implications before reconsidering such products.Read more →
CNET...A $500 Smart Tea Maker or $9 Tea Infuser? Based on Testing, I Have an AnswerThe Teforia smart tea infuser returns at a reduced price of $499 with improved features including NFC scanning and app control, but the device suffers from persistent Wi-Fi connectivity issues, unreliable NFC chip reading, and reported durability concerns from customers. Despite producing quality tea with smooth flavor, ongoing technical problems and quality control issues make the $500 price difficult to justify.Read more →
Engadget...OpenAI drops plans to release an adult chatbotOpenAI has indefinitely canceled plans for an adult-oriented chatbot following employee and investor concerns, redirecting focus toward core productivity tools. The decision comes as the company's second major project cancellation this week and reflects broader concerns about content moderation challenges, unhealthy AI attachment risks, and industry controversies around generative adult content.Read more →
TechCrunch...Mistral releases a new open-source model for speech generationMistral AI launched Voxtral TTS, an open-source text-to-speech model for enterprise applications including customer support and voice agents, supporting nine languages. The model is optimized for edge devices with state-of-the-art performance at a fraction of competitors' costs, featuring 90ms response time and voice adaptation with minimal samples. This positions Mistral as a cost-effective, customizable alternative to ElevenLabs, Deepgram, and OpenAI in the growing voice AI market.Read more →
Gizmodo...Hisense’s AI Agent Suite Brings Connection and Emotional Value to Smart Home AppliancesHisense launched the AI Agent Suite, an integrated ecosystem of smart appliances connected through the ConnectLife platform to eliminate fragmented smart home experiences. The suite uses AI coordination across refrigerators, ovens, dishwashers, washers, and dryers to reduce user burden and maximize family time. Key features include voice control, intelligent scheduling, energy optimization, and waste reduction through seamless device communication.Read more →
Gizmodo...The New ‘Faces of Death’ Trailer Lifts the Lid on the Movie’s Actual PlotThe Faces of Death remake follows a content moderator who discovers disturbing videos on her platform that appear to be re-enactments of murders, forcing her to determine whether the violence is real or fictional. The film examines modern anxieties about authenticity and trust in digital spaces, where the line between viral content and reality has become increasingly blurred. It explores contemporary challenges in distinguishing fact from fiction online.Read more →
CNET...Yes, Your Fitness Machines Require Maintenance. Here’s Our Expert GuideThis guide provides expert maintenance tips for popular home fitness equipment including treadmills, exercise bikes, and rowing machines. Regular maintenance such as belt lubrication, dust removal, bolt checking, and resistance testing can extend equipment lifespan and prevent costly repairs, with most manufacturers offering warranties for major components.Read more →
Engadget...Uber and Pony.ai are testing a robotaxi service for EuropeUber and Pony.ai are launching a robotaxi service in Europe starting with Zagreb, Croatia, using Pony.ai's Gen-7 autonomous driving system in Arcfox Alpha T5 vehicles. The service will initially operate through Croatian partner Verne's app before expanding to Uber's platform, with plans to deploy thousands of robotaxis across multiple European cities over the coming years.Read more →
Gizmodo...Hard Floors Cleaning Becomes Easy When Dreame’s New Aero Wet-Dry Vacuums Are On the Job, Now 20% OffDreame has launched two next-generation wet-dry vacuums, the Aero Pro and Aero, designed to clean homes without requiring furniture rearrangement thanks to their ultra-flat 3.88-inch profile. Both models feature TangleCut 2.0 technology for automatic hair removal, intelligent cleaning modes, and self-cleaning capabilities to address common pain points for pet owners and busy households. Available at 20% discount through March 31, the machines represent a significant advancement in cordless wet-dry vacuum technology.Read more →
Gizmodo...The Not-So-Simple Truth About Rats, Roaches, and the Other Urban ‘Pests’ We MadeEvolutionary biologist Marlene Zuk's new book challenges readers to appreciate animals commonly viewed as pests, such as rats and cockroaches, on their own terms rather than as symbols or lessons for human society. The book reveals complex scientific discoveries about these animals' behaviors and adaptations, while addressing conservation challenges around invasive species and human-animal coexistence. Zuk argues that understanding animals beyond their relationship to humans provides valuable insights into both the natural world and our environmental impact.Read more →
CNET...Hate Your iPhone's Alarm Slider? Here's How You Can Get Rid of ItApple's iOS 26.1 introduced a slider-based alarm dismissal mechanism designed to prevent accidental activation, but the change has frustrated users who prefer the previous single-tap button method. Users can revert to the original single-tap dismissal by enabling the Prefer Single-Touch Actions toggle in the iPhone's Accessibility settings.Read more →
Engadget...Oversight Board tells Meta expanding Community Notes outside of US poses 'significant' risksMeta's Oversight Board published guidance recommending cautious international expansion of Community Notes, its crowd-sourced fact-checking system, warning of significant human rights risks without proper safeguards in countries experiencing high polarization, conflict, organized disinformation, or linguistic barriers. The board emphasized that Community Notes should coexist with professional fact-checking partnerships rather than replace them globally.Read more →
Gizmodo...Google Issues New Warning About the Quantum Computing Security ApocalypseGoogle has accelerated the timeline for when quantum computers will threaten current cryptography to 2029, based on research showing that quantum computers with one million 'noisy qubits' could break 2048-bit RSA encryption within a week. This dramatic shift from a previously vague deadline reflects a significant change in expectations about quantum computing capabilities and necessitates an urgent transition to post-quantum cryptography standards across the security community.Read more →
The Verge...Uber aims to launch Europe’s first robotaxi service with Pony AI and VerneCompanies are testing autonomous vehicles in Croatia as part of preparations for a commercial launch. This represents an early commercial deployment of autonomous vehicle services in a European market.Read more →
TechCrunch...A little-known Croatian startup is coming for the robotaxi market with help from UberMate Rimac's robotaxi startup Verne has partnered with Uber and autonomous vehicle company Pony.ai to launch a commercial robotaxi service in Europe, starting in Zagreb, Croatia. The service will initially use Pony.ai's Arcfox Alpha T5 vehicles before transitioning to Verne's purpose-built electric robotaxis. This partnership marks a significant milestone in moving autonomous mobility from testing phases to real commercial operations in Europe.Read more →
TechCrunch...A little-known Croatian startup is coming for the robotaxi market with help from UberVerne, an autonomous vehicle startup founded by Mate Rimac, has announced a strategic partnership with Uber and Chinese autonomous vehicle company Pony.ai to launch a commercial robotaxi service in Zagreb, Croatia. Pony.ai will provide the autonomous driving technology and Arcfox Alpha T5 vehicles, while Verne manages the fleet operations and Uber handles the ride-hailing platform. This partnership marks a significant milestone in bringing autonomous mobility from testing phases to real commercial service in Europe.Read more →
CNET...I Review Routers for a Living. Don’t Buy a Router Right NowThe FCC has banned the sale of new foreign-made routers in the US, effectively freezing the market for new router models while existing products remain available for sale. The ban stems from national security concerns related to cyberattacks, but creates a security paradox: foreign-made routers will not receive security updates after March 1, 2027, potentially leaving users with unpatched vulnerabilities. Consumer experts recommend delaying new router purchases until the FCC clarifies which manufacturers qualify as exempt.Read more →
TechCrunch...The least surprising chapter of the Manus story is what’s happening right nowChinese AI startup Manus relocated to Singapore and sold itself to Meta for $2 billion, prompting Beijing to launch a regulatory investigation into whether the deal violated foreign investment rules. The acquisition exemplifies escalating U.S.-China tensions over AI supremacy and China's efforts to prevent homegrown tech companies from fleeing with their intellectual property and talent. Manus co-founders have been summoned by regulators and barred from leaving the country pending the inquiry's outcome.Read more →
CNET...USPS 8% Surcharge Could Hit Small Businesses and Shoppers AlikeIt's the first-ever surcharge from the USPS, and it's all due to rising gas costs. But it won't affect first-class stamps.Read more →
CNET...USPS 8% Surcharge Could Hit Small Businesses and Shoppers AlikeThe USPS will implement a temporary 8% surcharge on certain shipping services beginning April 26, 2026, to offset higher fuel costs and address its ongoing financial crisis. The surcharge will apply to Priority Mail Express, Priority Mail, USPS Ground Advantage, and Parcel Select, pending regulatory approval. This action reflects the agency's longstanding financial challenges, including over $100 billion in losses since 2007.Read more →
CNET...Ring Finally Goes Wire-Free for Its Latest 4K Video DoorbellsRing announced battery-powered video doorbells in 4K and 2K models priced from $80, solving the installation limitations of wired doorbell systems. The new generation incorporates advanced AI features including video summaries, searchable history, and facial recognition through the Ring AI Pro subscription.Read more →
Gizmodo...You’ll Never Believe This but Elon Musk Doesn’t Get to Pay TSA Workers’ SalariesElon Musk's offer to pay TSA workers' salaries during a government shutdown was rejected by the Trump Administration due to federal legal restrictions prohibiting private individuals from directly compensating government employees. The White House cited additional complications arising from Musk's extensive involvement in federal government contracts.Read more →
The Verge...Intel and LG Display may have beaten Apple and Qualcomm with the best laptop battery life everThe Dell XPS 16 continues to maintain its position as a leading premium laptop offering. The article underscores the model's sustained relevance and performance in the competitive computing market.Read more →
TechCrunch...Mercor competitor Deccan AI raises $25M, sources experts from IndiaDeccan AI, a startup providing post-training data and evaluation services for large language models, has raised $25 million in Series A funding to address growing demand from frontier AI labs. The company leverages an India-based workforce of over 1 million contributors to deliver high-quality post-training work, which is critical for making AI models reliable in production environments. With customers including Google DeepMind and Snowflake, Deccan is capturing the rapidly expanding market for AI training services.Read more →
CNET...Melania Trump Escorted by Talking Humanoid Robot at White House Tech SummitMelania Trump unveiled a Figure 03 humanoid robot at an education summit, positioning AI-powered robots as personalized educational tools for students. The $25,000 robot, equipped with autonomous capabilities and voice recognition, represents part of the administration's initiative to integrate advanced technology into classrooms. The presentation sparked significant controversy, with critics expressing concerns that such robots could replace human teachers and diminish essential human connection in education.Read more →
TechCrunch...Delve did the security compliance on LiteLLM, an AI project hit by malwareMalware was discovered in LiteLLM, a widely-used open source AI model management tool, which infiltrated systems through a compromised dependency and harvested login credentials to escalate access across multiple packages. The incident is particularly notable because LiteLLM had publicly claimed SOC2 and ISO 27001 security certifications, raising questions about compliance verification effectiveness. The LiteLLM team is working with Mandiant to investigate and remediate the situation.Read more →
Gizmodo...Was This Really the First Humanoid Robot at the White House? An InvestigationFigure AI's F.03 humanoid robot made a historic visit to the White House during First Lady Melania Trump's education technology summit, positioning it as potentially the first humanoid robot to be hosted at the executive residence. The robot demonstrated multilingual capabilities by addressing guests and walking autonomously during the demonstration. This milestone marks a significant moment in the integration of robotics into high-level government events and education initiatives.Read more →
Gizmodo...Meta Lays Off 700 in Pivot From Metaverse to AIMeta is laying off approximately 700 employees from Facebook and Reality Labs as part of a strategic pivot away from metaverse investments toward artificial intelligence development. The cuts represent the company's effort to offset substantial infrastructure costs associated with AI advancement and redirect resources toward more profitable initiatives. This marks the second wave of restructuring within three months, with potential for larger workforce reductions as Meta realigns its priorities.Read more →
CNET...The Top Tech Deals Our Readers Are Shopping During Amazon's Big Spring SaleAmazon's Big Spring Sale offers substantial discounts on trending consumer tech products, including premium headphones, OLED TVs, smart doorbells, and fitness trackers from brands like Sony, Samsung, Google, and Fitbit. The sale highlights consumer preferences identified through purchase data and provides savings of up to 40% on both current and previous generation devices. Concurrent sales at Target and other retailers present additional opportunities for tech upgrades at reduced prices.Read more →
CNET...McDonald's KPop Demon Hunter Meals Include Bright Purple Nugget SauceMcDonald's is launching a limited-time menu collaboration with Netflix's animated film KPop Demon Hunters, featuring themed breakfast and lunch/dinner meals with specialty sauces, McNuggets, and a berry boba McFlurry. The promotion, available starting March 31, includes branded photocards and QR codes linking to exclusive online content about the film.Read more →
The Verge...The Sonos Ace are a hefty 25 percent for Amazon’s Big Spring SaleThe company's first-generation noise-canceling headphones deliver a strong market debut with impressive performance. The product provides enhanced value for users who own the company's soundbars, demonstrating effective ecosystem integration and cross-product compatibility.Read more →
CNET...Switch 2 Pricing Shift: Nintendo Says Its Physical Games Will Cost $10 MoreNintendo has introduced a new pricing structure for Switch 2 games where physical copies will cost $10 more than digital versions, beginning with Yoshi and the Mysterious Book in May. The change reflects higher production costs from larger cartridges required for the more powerful Switch 2 hardware and ongoing global memory shortages. This unprecedented move could shift industry pricing norms and presents challenges for third-party publishers deciding whether to follow suit.Read more →
CNET...OpenAI Gives Users a Long-Term Storage Option With ChatGPT LibraryOpenAI has launched a ChatGPT Library feature that allows Plus, Pro, and Business users to store, organize, and search uploaded files and created documents in a centralized location. The feature integrates with ChatGPT's Memory function to reference saved files in future conversations, though files require internet access and have specific size limitations. This represents OpenAI's expanding platform capabilities as it competes with rivals like Anthropic.Read more →
CNET...New Features Make NotebookLM More Flexible and Easier to UseGoogle is rolling out multiple new features for NotebookLM, including Cinematic Video Overviews, slide revisions, additional infographic styles, and enhanced quiz and flashcard functionality. These updates expand the tool's ability to transform data into various outputs such as podcasts, videos, presentations, and infographics. The improvements enhance flexibility and usability for users working with diverse data sources.Read more →
Gizmodo...The First Clip from ‘Maul: Shadow Lord’ Plays the Hits, LiterallyDisney+ will premiere 'Maul: Shadow Lord,' a new Star Wars animated series on April 6, following character Maul as he rebuilds his criminal empire after The Clone Wars. The series opens with Maul's dramatic entrance accompanied by the iconic 'Duel of the Fates' music, marking a significant moment for the character and the Star Wars franchise.Read more →
CNET...Dell's Precision Pro Biz Laptops Are Back With New Focus on PortabilityDell is relaunching its business computer lineup with revamped Precision Pro and new Dell Pro series (3, 5, 7) laptops featuring Intel Core Ultra Series 3 and AMD Ryzen processors. The new generation emphasizes thinner and lighter designs with a configurable motherboard architecture enabling easier mass production. Additional products include the Dell Pro 5 Micro portable PC and Dell Pro P 34 conferencing monitor with AI auto-focusing capabilities.Read more →
Gizmodo...Palantir CEO Says Only the Neurodivergent Will Survive the AI TakeoverAlex Karp, CEO of Palantir, has increasingly suggested that neurodiversity is essential for future employment and success, a view shared by other tech leaders like Elon Musk and Peter Thiel. Critics argue these statements promote neurodivergent supremacy rather than equal workplace opportunities, reinforcing harmful stereotypes that frame neurodivergence as a superior trait rather than a difference deserving fair accommodation.Read more →
Gizmodo...Bernie Sanders Introduces Bill to Pause AI Data Center Construction, Warns of ‘Cataclysmic Changes’Sen. Bernie Sanders introduced a Senate bill to impose a national moratorium on AI data center construction and upgrades until Congress passes comprehensive AI legislation ensuring safety, preventing job displacement, and addressing environmental concerns. The proposal directly challenges the tech industry's rapid expansion of AI infrastructure, which is already facing local opposition over energy consumption and resource strain. The bill faces significant obstacles under the current administration, which has prioritized deregulation of AI development.Read more →
TechCrunch...The AI skills gap is here, says AI company, and power users are pulling aheadAnthropic's economic research shows AI has not yet meaningfully displaced jobs, but warns of potential rapid disruption to entry-level white-collar positions within five years, with unemployment potentially reaching 20%. The study reveals a growing skills gap between early AI adopters and newcomers, with adoption concentrated in wealthy regions and knowledge-intensive sectors, suggesting AI may amplify existing inequalities.Read more →
CNET...Razer Releases New Blade 16 Gaming Laptop With Intel Panther Lake, Brighter OLEDRazer released the new Blade 16 gaming laptop featuring Intel's Core Ultra 9 386H processor with Nvidia RTX 5080 or RTX 5090 graphics options, replacing its previous AMD-based design. The laptop offers up to 64GB of fast LPDDR5 RAM, advanced AI capabilities with 50 TOPS NPU performance, and a bright 16-inch OLED display with 240Hz refresh rate, making it suitable for gaming, content creation, and AI workloads. Pricing starts at $3,500 with the RTX 5080 configuration.Read more →
Gizmodo...Ring Launches a 4K Video Doorbell That Runs on BatteryAmazon Ring announced new battery-powered video doorbells, including a flagship 4K model called the Battery Doorbell Pro (2nd Gen) priced at $250, featuring AI-enhanced "Retinal" video processing and up to 10x zoom. The company also released 2K battery and wired options ranging from $80 to $190, all offering 140-degree field of view and night vision. The cameras come with a trial of Ring AI Pro, a subscription service providing AI-powered motion detection, natural language summaries, and up to 180 days of video history, with availability starting April 29.Read more →
TechCrunch...Convicted spyware chief hints that Greece’s government was behind dozens of phone hacksIntellexa founder Tal Dilian, convicted in February for illegal data collection in Greece's 'Greek Watergate' spyware scandal, is planning to appeal his eight-year prison sentence. The Predator spyware was used to hack phones of government officials, journalists, and opposition leaders; Dilian claims he is being made a scapegoat and suggests the Greek government authorized the hacks. His allegations raise questions about potential government involvement and a possible cover-up by the Mitsotakis administration.Read more →
The Verge...The portable Fanttik X9 Pro tire inflator is down to its best price in monthsIf you’ve ever had to deal with a flat tire, you know how quickly it can derail your day. That’s why it’s worth considering a portable inflator like the Fanttik X9 Pro. The small, rechargeable air pump that can quickly inflate tires on cars and bikes is down to $59.98 ($20 off) at Amazon and […]Read more →
Engadget...PSA: T-Mobile customers have a week to sign up for a free year of MLB.TVT-Mobile is offering a free one-year MLB.TV subscription (valued at $150) to eligible customers through March 31, 2026, continuing a tradition that has delivered over $1 billion in savings since 2016. The subscription provides access to regular season games, documentaries, archived content, and highlights, though blackout and market restrictions apply. With over 1.25 million redemptions last year, this represents one of T-Mobile's most popular carrier perks.Read more →
CNET...Nintendo Dropped a Switch 2 Update With a New Mode You'll Want to Turn On ImmediatelyNintendo Switch 2 received firmware version 22.0.0 introducing Handheld Mode Boost, which upgrades backward-compatible Switch 1 games to 1080p resolution at 60 frames per second in handheld mode, eliminating visual blur and jaggedness. The feature requires manual activation through System Settings but results in a 27% battery life reduction as a trade-off. The update also includes accessibility improvements, social features, and storage management enhancements.Read more →
The Verge...Meta is laying off hundreds of employees as it pours money into AIMeta is conducting layoffs affecting workers across multiple divisions, including Reality Labs, recruiting, social media, and sales teams. These workforce reductions span several key departments within the organization.Read more →
The Verge...Spotify is letting artists manually approve releases to combat AI fakesArtist Profile Protection introduces a mandatory review stage before music is published on the platform. This quality control feature ensures that content meets standards before reaching the audience, protecting both artists and listeners.Read more →
Gizmodo...One of the Best Scenes in ‘Project Hail Mary’ Wasn’t in the ScriptProject Hail Mary features an unscripted karaoke scene with Sandra Hüller performing Harry Styles' "Sign of the Times" after Ryan Gosling convinced her to sing despite the scene not being in the original script. The emotionally vulnerable moment adds depth to Hüller's reserved character and has become integral to the film's marketing and overall spirit. The scene was rapidly written and shot just one day after Hüller selected the song.Read more →
TechCrunch...Who’s driving Waymo’s self-driving cars? Sometimes, the police.Waymo robotaxis have repeatedly required law enforcement and emergency first responders to manually move vehicles stuck during critical incidents, including at active crime scenes and emergency evacuations. The company operates remote assistance workers and a dedicated roadside assistance team, but city officials argue this arrangement inappropriately diverts emergency responders from their primary duties. As Waymo expands to approximately 20 additional cities, questions remain about whether the company's roadside support infrastructure can adequately prevent reliance on emergency services.Read more →
TechCrunch...Google unveils TurboQuant, a new AI memory compression algorithm — and yes, the internet is calling it ‘Pied Piper’Google Research announced TurboQuant, an advanced AI memory compression algorithm that reduces AI systems' working memory requirements by at least 6x while maintaining performance. Using vector quantization techniques, the technology could significantly decrease the cost of running AI models during inference. Although currently a laboratory breakthrough, TurboQuant represents a major advancement in AI efficiency that could lead to more accessible and cost-effective AI deployment.Read more →
CNET...Today's NYT Connections: Sports Edition Hints and Answers for March 26, #549This guide provides hints and solutions for today's Connections: Sports Edition puzzle, a baseball-themed word puzzle game from The Athletic. The daily puzzle includes four themed groups covering baseball terminology, 2025 MLB home run leaders, minor league baseball leagues, and team name anagrams.Read more →
The Verge...Razer’s new Blade 16 gaming laptop has an Intel Panther Lake chip and very fast RAMRazer's 2026 Blade maintains its characteristically thin profile while delivering enhanced speed and energy efficiency improvements. The updated design balances portability with performance gains, catering to users seeking both sleek aesthetics and increased computational capability.Read more →
Engadget...HBO Max's Harry Potter series premieres this ChristmasHBO unveiled an accelerated release schedule for its Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone adaptation, premiering on HBO Max on December 25, 2026, significantly ahead of the originally projected 2027 release. The series features acclaimed creative leadership from Game of Thrones, Succession, and The Last of Us, signaling a major production investment.Read more →
Engadget...Webb and Hubble telescopes combine forces for a new view of SaturnThe ESA, NASA, and CSA released new Saturn images from the James Webb and Hubble space telescopes, combining visible and infrared observations to reveal unprecedented details of the planet's atmospheric composition and dynamics. Hubble's visible light imagery captures subtle color variations and cloud structures, while Webb's infrared sensors penetrate deeper atmospheric layers to reveal ring composition and polar characteristics. These coordinated observations will enable scientists to monitor Saturn's atmosphere through the planet's 2025 equinox and seasonal transitions.Read more →
The Verge...The surprise hit Nex Playground is the latest console to get a price hikeComponent costs for memory and storage have increased significantly over the past six months, primarily driven by rapid AI infrastructure expansion affecting global supply and demand. Consumer electronics companies can no longer absorb these cost increases independently, signaling potential price impacts ahead.Read more →
The Verge...Disney’s big bets on the metaverse and AI slop aren’t going so wellDisney's newly-appointed CEO confronts a major setback as OpenAI discontinues Sora shortly after Disney invested $1 billion to integrate the AI image-generation technology into Disney Plus, while Epic Games simultaneously lays off 1,000 employees, threatening a separate $1.5 billion metaverse partnership. Both high-profile investments that were meant to position Disney as a technology innovator are now facing critical uncertainty. The dual crises highlight the risks of betting substantial capital on unproven emerging technologies.Read more →
Gizmodo...What Eiichiro Oda Kept (and Cut) From the Original Manga Pilot of ‘One Piece’The article examines Eiichiro Oda's original 'Romance Dawn' one-shot, which served as the foundation for One Piece, comparing key differences such as how Luffy obtained his straw hat and the initial concept of 'Peacemains' versus standard pirates. Oda's core ideas about heroism and freedom from the original pilot have remained central to the series across 30 years and 1,100+ chapters. This exploration is particularly timely given One Piece's current global success through its Netflix live-action adaptation and upcoming anime remake by Wit Studio.Read more →
CNET...Foldable Smartphone Shipments Grew 28% in 2025, Even Without AppleFoldable smartphone shipments in North America grew 28% year-over-year in 2025 and are expected to grow over 20% annually in 2026, driven by increased competition, competitive pricing, and broader product availability from manufacturers like Motorola, Google, and Samsung. The market is expanding beyond early adopters as price tiers become more diverse, and Apple's anticipated entry into the foldable market could further legitimize the category and accelerate mainstream adoption.Read more →
Gizmodo...Physical Switch 2 Games Will Soon Cost More Than Digital VersionsNintendo announced that physical Switch 2 games will cost $10 more than their digital counterparts starting May 2026, with physical versions priced at $70 and digital at $60. The company attributed this pricing difference to the distinct costs of producing and distributing physical game cards compared to digital downloads, reflecting ongoing memory shortage challenges. This pricing structure will likely become the industry standard for future Nintendo titles, requiring collectors and players who prefer physical ownership to pay a premium.Read more →
Gizmodo...One Day, Three Big Swings: NASA’s Bold New Plans for the Moon, Mars, and Earth OrbitNASA Administrator Jared Isaacman announced a major restructuring of the Artemis program, prioritizing the construction of a permanent lunar base by 2032 and accelerating crewed Moon landings to 2028. The agency is canceling the Lunar Gateway orbital outpost and its commercial ISS replacement program, instead focusing resources on direct lunar surface operations and demonstrating nuclear-powered propulsion for Mars missions.Read more →
CNET...Sony Hits the Brakes on Electric Cars With Built-In PlayStation FeaturesSony Honda Mobility has canceled its Afeela electric vehicle project, ending plans for both a sedan and SUV following Honda's strategic reassessment of its EV roadmap. The cancellation eliminates the vehicles' signature PlayStation integration features, which would have enabled remote gaming on in-car displays and customizable digital experiences. Reservation holders will receive full refunds for their prepaid deposits.Read more →
CNET...New Harry Potter TV Series Trailer Reintroduces Hogwarts Magic for HBOHBO released a trailer for a new live-action Harry Potter series set to premiere on HBO and HBO Max for Christmas 2026, featuring a direct book adaptation starting with The Philosopher's Stone. The series stars Dominic McLaughlin as Harry Potter, alongside established actors including Nick Frost as Hagrid, John Lithgow as Dumbledore, and Paapa Essiedu as Professor Snape.Read more →
CNET...Nvidia's NemoClaw Adds Security and Privacy Features for AI Agents. Is It Enough?Nvidia introduced NemoClaw, a reference stack designed to make OpenClaw AI agents more secure and easier to deploy with features like sandboxing, policy-based guardrails, and activity monitoring. This addresses critical security concerns around always-on AI agents that operate with minimal human supervision, though cybersecurity experts note that while NemoClaw is a significant improvement, additional safeguards are still needed.Read more →
The Verge...Woot is offering over 20 percent off Switch 2 controllers and games todayMario Kart World cartridges are being sold for $52, while 8BitDo's gaming controllers are available at a significant discount, nearly half off their regular price. This sale presents a savings opportunity for Nintendo gaming enthusiasts seeking controller upgrades.Read more →
Gizmodo...Marvel Says the Real World Parallels in ‘Daredevil: Born Again’ Are CoincidentalDaredevil: Born Again season two premiered on Disney+, featuring a plot about an authoritarian task force that coincidentally mirrors current real-world government enforcement actions. Marvel claims the parallels are unintentional since the show was written nearly two years ago, though the article discusses Disney potentially limiting political commentary in its properties.Read more →
CNET...Best Carpet Cleaners for Spring Allergy Season: I Tested Them on Real-Life MessesCNET tested and ranked carpet cleaning machines for different needs, with the Bissell Revolution HydroSteam emerging as the best overall for pet owners due to superior odor elimination and value. The review evaluates performance on tough stains, noise levels, ease of use, and portability to help consumers choose the right machine based on their specific cleaning requirements.Read more →
Engadget...Razer's new Blade 16 has Intel's latest chips and ultra-fast RAMRazer released an updated 16-inch Blade laptop with Intel's new Core Ultra 9 386H processors and NVIDIA RTX 50 Series GPUs, starting at $3,500 with integrated AI NPU capabilities for image generation and live translation. The 2026 model maintains the thin 0.59-inch profile while improving performance, screen brightness, and offering up to 15 hours of battery life. The price increase reflects rising costs of premium memory and storage affecting the entire PC industry.Read more →
TechCrunch...Melania Trump wants a robot to homeschool your childAt a White House press conference, the First Lady showcased Figure AI's humanoid robot to promote her "Fostering the Future" initiative, envisioning AI-powered humanoid educators replacing traditional teachers. The Trump administration is actively supporting AI-driven education experiments like Alpha School as part of a broader push to transform K-12 education through automation and technology.Read more →
CNET...Mars Just Got Closer: How NASA's SR-1 Freedom Could Rewrite Space TravelNASA will launch SR-1 Freedom, a nuclear-powered spacecraft, to Mars in December 2028 as the first nuclear-powered craft to leave low Earth orbit, demonstrating the viability of nuclear propulsion for deep space exploration. The spacecraft will deliver the Skyfall payload to locate subsurface ice reserves on Mars while addressing the range limitations of solar and liquid fuel propulsion. If successful, this mission would enable more ambitious space exploration efforts, including permanent lunar bases and human missions to Mars.Read more →
TechCrunch...Riding the GLP-1 boom, VITL lands $7.5M to overhaul cash-pay clinic prescribingVITL, an 18-month-old startup, raised $7.5 million in Series A funding for its e-prescribing platform designed for cash-pay medical businesses. The platform connects clinics to compounding pharmacies with real-time pricing and tracking, reducing prescription processing time from minutes to seconds and saving providers up to two workdays per month.Read more →
CNET...How to Watch MLB: Team-by-Team Streaming Guide for the 2026 Baseball SeasonThe 2026 MLB season features a fragmented broadcasting landscape with games spread across multiple streaming platforms including Apple TV+, Peacock, Netflix, and ESPN+, along with team-specific services. Following the collapse of regional sports networks, fans must subscribe to multiple services ranging from $11 to $90 monthly to access all games, creating significant complexity in content discovery. The shift reflects industry trends toward direct-to-consumer streaming while offering flexibility for cord-cutting fans.Read more →
Engadget...Nintendo to start charging different prices for first-party digital and physical gamesNintendo announced a new dual-pricing strategy for Switch 2 first-party games, with digital versions priced at $60 compared to $70 for physical copies, starting with Yoshi and the Mysterious Book in May. While this provides a $10 incentive for digital purchasers, physical media consumers receive no discount. The pricing difference reflects Nintendo's strategy to encourage digital game adoption.Read more →
Engadget...YouTube is bringing affiliate shopping features to more creatorsYouTube lowered the subscriber threshold for its Shopping affiliate program from 1,000 to 500, enabling creators to start monetizing earlier in their careers. The program allows creators to earn commissions when viewers purchase products tagged in their YouTube Shorts, VOD, and Live content. This change expands monetization opportunities for smaller creators while maintaining other YouTube Partner Program requirements.Read more →
Engadget...Jury rules against Meta and YouTube in social media addiction caseA Los Angeles jury found Meta and YouTube negligent for designing addictive social media features that harmed a minor during childhood, awarding $3 million in damages with Meta bearing 70 percent liability. This landmark verdict represents the first successful lawsuit against social media platforms over addiction-related harms to children, establishing precedent for numerous pending cases and signaling growing legal accountability for platform design practices.Read more →
CNET...Streaming Service Deals for Students: Save on HBO Max, Hulu and MusicMultiple streaming services including Spotify, Hulu, Paramount Plus, Peacock, Tidal, and Amazon Music are offering discounted subscriptions for eligible students, with combined packages and individual services available at reduced monthly rates. These offers require verification of student status through services like SheerID and provide significant savings compared to regular subscription prices. Most deals are available for students enrolled in accredited US colleges and universities, with renewal options available annually.Read more →
The Verge...Can you monitor a situation without monitors? The Polymarket sports bar triedThe White House released a framework for comprehensive national AI legislation, prompting debate within conservative circles. Republican and conservative groups launched the Alliance for a Better Future specifically to counter Big Tech's growing political influence on AI policy, revealing a significant rift between MAGA-aligned tech Republicans and traditional conservatives prioritizing family values.Read more →
Gizmodo...Pentagon’s Biggest Champion of Blacklisting Anthropic Has a Few Million Reasons for His StancePentagon official Emil Michael, who holds millions in stock in Anthropic rival Perplexity, allegedly used his position to ban Anthropic from government contracts after the company refused to enable domestic surveillance or autonomous weapons. The ban appears retaliatory, with Anthropic's contracts redirected to OpenAI while Michael's financial interests stand to benefit. A federal judge described the Pentagon's decision as an attempt to cripple Anthropic.Read more →
The Verge...The United States router ban, explainedThe FCC has banned new foreign-made consumer routers from US authorization, citing national security concerns about cyberattacks. However, the ban contains no actual security requirements and appears designed primarily to force manufacturers to invest in US production rather than address vulnerabilities. Companies can seek conditional approval if they commit to domestic manufacturing investments.Read more →
The Verge...Meta and YouTube found negligent in landmark social media addiction caseSocial media companies are entering a phase of significant legal battles and disputes. The statement suggests multiple ongoing legal challenges that will impact the sector going forward.Read more →
Gizmodo...How ‘Star City’ Will Be Completely Different From ‘For All Mankind’For All Mankind has been renewed for a sixth and final season, with a new spinoff called Star City announced to debut on Apple TV May 29. Star City explores the alternate history from the Soviet Union's perspective during the 1970s space race, structured as a self-contained Cold War spy thriller that maintains continuity with the original series while establishing its own distinct narrative identity. The spinoff will feature a continuous story set in the 1970s without major time jumps, differentiating itself creatively from its parent series.Read more →
Gizmodo...Astronomers Spot Previously Unknown Space ‘Cavity’ That’s Quietly Protecting the MoonNew research using data from China's Chang'e-4 Moon lander reveals that Earth's magnetosphere provides significantly more radiation shielding to the lunar surface than previously understood, with a 20% reduction in cosmic ray exposure even when the Moon orbits outside the magnetosphere. This discovery has important implications for planning future lunar missions, as reducing radiation exposure from low-energy ions could substantially decrease astronaut health risks during extended stays on the Moon.Read more →
CNET...Best VPN for Chrome 2026: Browse, Stream and Download in PrivateCNET reviews the best VPN services for Chrome browsers, comparing leading providers including ExpressVPN, NordVPN, Surfshark, Proton VPN, and PIA based on privacy protections, speed performance, streaming capability, and pricing. The analysis highlights key differences between browser extensions and full VPN applications, with ExpressVPN leading for overall performance and Proton VPN offering the best free option. Users should consider factors such as encryption standards, server networks, and customer support when selecting a VPN provider.Read more →
TechCrunch...Jury finds Meta and YouTube negligent in landmark social media addiction trialMeta and YouTube were ordered to pay $3 million in damages after a jury found their platforms contributed to a young woman's mental health problems. Evidence demonstrated that Meta understood how addictive its platforms were for teens and actively used that knowledge to increase engagement. This ruling may establish that social media companies are liable for harms caused by their products.Read more →
TechCrunch...Meta is cutting several hundred jobsMeta is laying off fewer than 1,000 employees across sales, recruiting, and Reality Labs divisions, with affected staff offered relocation or position transitions where possible. The cuts span U.S. and international operations as the company continues to restructure its teams. The layoffs occur amid Meta's record capital expenditure plans of $115-135 billion, driven primarily by investments in artificial intelligence technology.Read more →
CNET...Jury Finds Meta, Google Negligent in Social Media Addiction TrialA California jury found Meta and Google liable for designing Instagram and YouTube to be addictive to children, determining their negligence substantially contributed to mental health harms in a 20-year-old plaintiff. The court ordered $3 million in compensatory damages split between the companies, with Meta paying 70% and Google 30%. This verdict could establish a significant precedent for additional lawsuits against tech companies regarding intentional platform design to addict young users.Read more →
CNET...Jury Finds Meta and Google Negligent in Social Media Addiction TrialA California jury found Meta and Google liable for designing social media platforms intentionally addictive to children, requiring them to pay $3 million in combined damages. The verdict centered on allegations that specific design choices, particularly recommendation algorithms, deliberately kept young users engaged and contributed to severe mental health harms including depression and body dysmorphia. This landmark ruling could prompt numerous similar liability cases against tech giants, signaling a potential shift in corporate accountability for social media addiction among minors.Read more →
Gizmodo...Meta and Google Lose Landmark Case on Social Media AddictionA California woman won a landmark $3 million lawsuit against Meta and Google, with a jury finding their platforms intentionally designed addictive products that contributed to her anxiety, depression, and body dysmorphia during childhood. The verdict holds the tech giants liable for child safety issues and sets a significant precedent, with over 2,000 similar cases currently pending against Meta in federal court. Meta and YouTube were ordered to pay 70% and 30% of the damages respectively.Read more →
The Verge...Nintendo is going to charge less for digital Switch 2 gamesNintendo is planning to charge less for digital titles exclusive to the Switch 2 starting in May, the company announced on Wednesday. The new pricing is already in effect for Yoshi and the Mysterious Book, which costs $59.99 to preorder a digital copy and $69.99 for the physical version. In its announcement, Nintendo says both […]Read more →
Gizmodo...New Covid-19 Variant BA.3.2 Is Spreading and May ‘Evade Immunity,’ CDC WarnsThe CDC is monitoring a new COVID-19 variant, BA.3.2, that carries spike protein mutations capable of evading immunity from prior infections and vaccinations. Though currently comprising only 0.55% of sequenced U.S. cases, wastewater surveillance indicates broader spread across 25 states and 23 countries, with particularly rapid transmission in Europe. The variant poses the greatest risk to elderly and immunocompromised populations, though no significant increase in COVID-related deaths has been observed.Read more →
Engadget...Here's your first look at For All Mankind spinoff Star CityApple TV is launching Star City, a new sci-fi thriller that reimagines the Soviet Union's role in the 1960s space race from behind the Iron Curtain. Serving as a companion piece to the acclaimed For All Mankind series, the show is described as a 'propulsive paranoid thriller' featuring actors like Rhys Ifans and Anna Maxwell Martin. The series premieres on May 29, immediately following the fifth season finale of For All Mankind.Read more →
Gizmodo...Self-Directed Delivery Robot Directs Itself Straight Through a Bus ShelterA delivery robot operated by Serve Robotics crashed through a bus shelter in Chicago, marking the second such incident within a week. The incident highlights broader concerns about the deployment of autonomous delivery systems with insufficient safety oversight and regulatory safeguards, alongside growing resentment over job displacement and unequal distribution of technology benefits.Read more →
Engadget...Google's Lyria 3 Pro can now generate AI music (slop) up to 3 minutes in lengthGoogle has launched Lyria 3 Pro, an upgraded AI music generation model capable of producing full three-minute songs with granular control over musical elements such as intros, verses, choruses, and bridges. The model demonstrates improved understanding of musical composition and is available to paid Gemini users, enterprise customers, and developers via the Gemini API and Google AI Studio. Google prioritized responsible development by using only licensed materials and embedding SynthID watermarks in all outputs to identify AI-generated content.Read more →
TechCrunch...Apple overhauls its app developer platform with 100 new metrics, more toolsApple expanded App Store Connect with over 100 new metrics to help developers track monetization, subscriptions, and in-app purchase performance using Apple's own data rather than estimates. The update includes subscription reports, user behavior analytics, peer benchmarks, and enhanced filtering capabilities, enabling developers to make more data-driven decisions while maintaining user privacy through aggregated data and differential privacy techniques.Read more →
The Verge...X tries to limit creator revenue for foreign influencers but Musk intervenesX's Head of Product, Nikita Bier, announced a change to the platform's creator payouts on Tuesday, but according to Elon Musk, the change isn't going live just yet. Bier shared a post announcing that in determining payments, X "will be giving more weight to impressions from your home region." The motivation appears to be discouraging […]Read more →
TechCrunch...Bernie Sanders and AOC propose a ban on data center constructionSenators Bernie Sanders and Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez introduced legislation to ban new US data centers with peak power loads exceeding 20 megawatts until comprehensive AI regulation is enacted. The bill responds to widespread public concern, with a Pew Research poll showing 70% of Americans are more concerned than excited about AI development. The proposed legislation would require AI model certification, protect workers from job displacement, limit data center environmental impact, and restrict advanced chip exports to countries without comparable AI regulations.Read more →
Engadget...Meta lays off hundreds of workers, including more from Reality LabsMeta is conducting layoffs of hundreds of employees, with Reality Labs division facing significant cuts as the company prioritizes costly AI infrastructure investments worth $600 billion through 2028. The cuts follow a January round that eliminated over 1,000 Reality Labs jobs and reflect the division's decade-long failure to deliver returns after losing $70 billion since 2021. The layoffs signal Meta's strategic pivot away from its metaverse and VR ambitions toward positioning itself as an AI-focused technology company.Read more →
The Verge...The TSA is broken — is privatization next?The TSA funding lapse has left nearly 50,000 security officers unpaid since late February, causing widespread call-outs and airport security delays exceeding five hours at major hubs. The Trump administration is leveraging the crisis to push for TSA privatization as part of Project 2025, potentially outsourcing airport security to private contractors with highly variable track records.Read more →
Gizmodo...Sony and Honda Cancel Their Big PlayStation-Integrated EVSony Honda Mobility has discontinued development of the Afeela electric vehicle, which was set to launch in California in 2026 with advanced gaming and autonomous driving features. The decision follows Honda's $15.7 billion writedown and strategic reassessment driven by weak EV demand following the elimination of the federal tax credit and intense competition from Chinese automakers.Read more →
The Verge...Cox Communications not liable for pirated music, Supreme Court rulesA court ruled that Cox Communications cannot be held liable for copyright infringement merely for providing internet access, as the ISP did not offer a service dedicated to facilitating piracy. This decision establishes an important precedent limiting internet service provider liability for user-generated infringing content.Read more →
Gizmodo...Everything to Remember About ‘The Handmaid’s Tale’ Ahead of ‘The Testaments’The Testaments, a new Hulu series sequel to The Handmaid's Tale premiering April 8, follows young characters navigating an elite preparatory school in Gilead under Aunt Lydia's authority. The series shifts focus to the next generation with a compressed timeline compared to the source material, marking an evolution of the franchise with mostly new cast members.Read more →
CNET...New Emoji, Playlist Generator and More: All the New Features iOS 26.4 Brings to Your iPhoneApple released iOS 26.4 with new features including AI-powered Playlist Playground, video podcast support, and a Concerts discovery tool for finding nearby shows. The update includes eight new emoji, enhanced accessibility options like Reduce Bright Effects and improved captions, and allows family members to use separate payment methods. Additional features include offline Shazam identification and Ambient Music home screen widgets.Read more →
TechCrunch...DeleteMe acquires social media security tool Block PartyBlock Party, a social media harassment protection tool, has been acquired by DeleteMe, a personal data removal service that eliminates information from data brokers and people search sites. The acquisition consolidates both companies' products under one roof, allowing users to manage online safety across social media platforms and remove personal data through a unified solution. This integration addresses growing concerns about online privacy and safety following API pricing changes at X and represents a strategic expansion for DeleteMe.Read more →
Engadget...The Afeela 1 came too late and now is gone too soonThe Afeela 1 (PlayStation Car), a joint Sony-Honda electric vehicle project, has been officially canceled due to its six-year development cycle, shifting market sentiment against EVs, the failure of autonomous driving to materialize, and Honda's reduced commitment to American EV production. With its $100,000 price tag, modest design, and media-focused features, the vehicle struggled to compete against better-positioned alternatives like the Lucid Air. The cancellation serves as a cautionary tale about how rapidly changing market dynamics, geopolitical tensions, and policy shifts can undermine long-term automotive development strategies.Read more →
The Verge...Seiko resurrected a 44-year-old digital watch NASA astronauts wore to spaceSeiko has resurrected the Rotocall watch, a timekeeping device used by NASA astronauts including Sally Ride until 2002, featuring a unique octagonal bezel design that allows easy mode switching. The reissued version maintains the original's LCD display and functionality while incorporating slight design updates, priced at $550 compared to the original 1982 price of $125. The watch features multiple modes including time, timer, counter, stopwatch, and dual-time display, with a three-year battery life and water resistance exceeding 300 feet.Read more →
TechCrunch...Google launches Lyria 3 Pro music generation modelGoogle released Lyria 3 Pro, an advanced music generation model enabling users to create three-minute tracks with enhanced creative control and better structural understanding compared to its predecessor. The model is rolling out to Gemini (paid subscribers), Google Vids, and ProducerAI for consumers, while also becoming available to enterprise users through Vertex AI and the Gemini API. All generated tracks are marked with SynthID to indicate AI creation.Read more →
TechCrunch...Russia arrests alleged owner of cybercrime forum LeakBase, report saysRussian authorities arrested the alleged administrator of LeakBase, one of the world's largest cybercrime forums used for sharing hacking tools and stolen credentials. The arrest followed a coordinated international operation involving law enforcement from 14 countries that successfully shut down the platform and seized its database containing over 142,000 members and 215,000 messages. The takedown represents a significant effort to disrupt criminal infrastructure supporting large-scale cyber attacks and data breaches.Read more →
Engadget...Supreme Court rules ISPs aren't liable for subscribers' music piracyThe Supreme Court unanimously ruled that Cox Communications is not liable for copyright infringement committed by its subscribers, reversing a prior appeals court decision and overturning a $1 billion damages award. The court established that internet service providers are only liable for infringement if they intentionally encourage it, not merely by providing service knowing some users will infringe. This decision significantly limits ISP liability for user conduct and applies the same framework the court used in 2005 against file-sharing service Grokster.Read more →
TechCrunch...Waymo relies on firefighters and police to bail out stuck robotaxisWaymo robotaxis have repeatedly required first responders to physically move them from traffic during emergencies, including instances involving mass shootings and active crime scenes. City officials have expressed concerns that the company is inappropriately relying on taxpayer-funded emergency services rather than managing its own roadside assistance team. The incidents suggest potential limitations in the autonomous technology's ability to handle edge cases and raise accountability questions about large-scale robotaxi deployment.Read more →
Gizmodo...Trump Rewards Big Tech’s Biggest Bootlickers With Seats on AI Policy BoardThe White House announced new members of its President's Council of Advisors on Science and Technology (PCAST), including major tech leaders such as Marc Andreessen, Jensen Huang, and Mark Zuckerberg to advise on emerging technologies and workforce challenges. Notably absent is Elon Musk, the world's wealthiest person, with reasons for his exclusion remaining unclear amid reports of tensions between Musk and President Trump. The board may eventually expand to include up to 24 members and is expected to steer resources toward favored tech businesses aligned with administration priorities.Read more →
Gizmodo...Razer’s New Blade 16 Gaming Laptop May Have Good Battery life, for OnceRazer launches the 2026 Blade 16 with Intel's Panther Lake processor and promises a 60% battery life improvement, potentially making it viable as both a gaming and everyday device. Upgrades include faster LPDDR5X-9600MHz RAM, a brighter 1,100-nit HDR OLED display, improved audio, and Thunderbolt 5 connectivity. The laptop starts at $3,500 with an RTX 5080 GPU, addressing the previous generation's inability to maintain extended unplugged usage.Read more →
Engadget...Spotify is testing a tool to help real artists deal with AI slop on their profilesSpotify is testing Artist Profile Protection, a new feature enabling musicians to review and approve releases before they're associated with their profiles, addressing the growing problem of AI-generated songs being falsely attributed to real artists. The tool prevents low-quality AI music from damaging artists' brand identity and audience retention. This comes as approximately 50,000 AI-generated songs are uploaded to Spotify daily, prompting the platform to remove 75 million tracks last year.Read more →
The Verge...Reddit accounts with ‘fishy’ bot-like behavior will soon need to prove they’re humanReddit CEO Steve Huffman announced that human verification requirements will be rare and will not apply to most users, indicating a measured approach to platform security. The selective implementation suggests Reddit aims to balance verification needs with maintaining broad user accessibility.Read more →
TechCrunch...Reddit takes on the bots with new ‘human verification’ requirements for fishy behaviorReddit is implementing bot detection and human verification for suspected automated accounts using AI-powered tools and third-party authentication services while maintaining user privacy. The company will label legitimate service bots and require verification through passkeys, biometrics, or government IDs depending on jurisdiction. This initiative addresses the escalating problem of bot-driven misinformation and manipulation on social platforms, where bot traffic is projected to exceed human traffic by 2027.Read more →
Engadget...Reddit will prompt some accounts to 'verify humanness' in latest bot crackdownReddit is implementing selective humanness verification for accounts exhibiting bot-like behavior, using on-device methods such as FaceID and passkeys while preserving user anonymity. The company is also labeling verified bots and improving reporting tools to combat spam, while exploring compliance with age verification regulations. This addresses the growing challenge of bot-driven spam amid the rise of agentic AI systems.Read more →
CNET...OpenAI's Slop Machine Sora Is Dead. We're All Better Off Without ItOpenAI has discontinued Sora, its AI video generation app, after just 176 days, citing the immense cost and complexity of building generative media platforms. The company is shifting focus toward agentic AI and workplace tools rather than consumer-facing applications, reflecting a broader industry trend toward practical, business-centric AI solutions.Read more →
Gizmodo...What ‘Chainsaw Man’ and ‘Evangelion’ Share in Their EndingsManga series Chainsaw Man concluded with chapter 232, delivering an ending that has divided the fanbase in a manner comparable to Neon Genesis Evangelion's polarizing finale. The conclusion features Denji reconciling with Asa Mitaka, with creator Tatsuki Fujimoto deliberately pursuing his intended narrative vision rather than continuing the story. The ending's ambiguous and bittersweet tone has generated extensive fan debate and discourse across online communities.Read more →
Gizmodo...The US Has Already Caused $10 Trillion in Climate Damages—and the Math Gets WorseStanford researchers have developed a quantitative framework linking carbon emissions to actual global economic damages, finding that the U.S. has caused $10 trillion in damages since 1990. The study reveals that past emissions will generate damages 10 times higher than those already incurred through 2100, establishing clear financial accountability for climate change impacts. The framework suggests direct financial compensation for past damages combined with immediate emissions reduction represents the most practical path forward.Read more →
Engadget...Sony's upcoming Bravia 3 II is a mid-range LED TV available in sizes up to 100 inchesSony introduced the Bravia 3 II mid-range LED TV with sizes up to 100 inches, bringing premium features including the XR processor, Clear Image algorithm, 4K Dolby Vision support, and 120Hz refresh rates to more accessible price points. The TV integrates Google Gemini for voice control and includes four HDMI 2.1 ports for connecting multiple gaming consoles and devices.Read more →
The Verge...Google Lyria 3 Pro makes longer AI songsGoogle has expanded its Lyria 3 music-generation AI to create full tracks up to three minutes long, six times longer than the previous 30-second limit, and integrated it across multiple Google products including Gemini, Vertex AI, and ProducerAI. The update enables users greater creative control by allowing them to prompt for specific song elements like intros and choruses, raising concerns about copyright infringement that Google addresses through content checking and SynthID watermarking.Read more →
CNET...Sony's 2026 Soundbars and TVs Embrace Dolby Atmos SupportSony has announced a new lineup of premium soundbars and the Bravia 3 II television featuring Dolby Atmos support and advanced processing capabilities. The Bravia 3 II offers 4K 120Hz support with sizes ranging from 50 to 100 inches and pricing from $600 to $3,100. These products may represent among the last Sony-made televisions as the company transitions to a manufacturing partnership with TCL.Read more →
Engadget...Sony adds the Bravia Theater Bar 5 and Bar 7 to its soundbar lineupSony is introducing new Bravia Theater soundbar models—the premium Bar 7 and affordable Bar 5—alongside three subwoofers and enhanced rear speakers to expand its immersive audio ecosystem. The Bar 7 features nine drivers supporting Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, while the Bar 5 delivers Dolby Atmos capabilities at $350, making immersive home theater accessible across price points. The new lineup emphasizes dual subwoofer support and advanced driver technology for enhanced audio performance.Read more →
Gizmodo...Economy-Class Couch Seats Are Coming to United Airlines FlightsUnited Airlines will introduce the United Relax Row, a new economy seating option that transforms three seats into a flat, couch-like surface with adjustable leg rests, launching in 2027 across over 200 Boeing aircraft. This offering targets families, couples, and solo travelers seeking extra comfort on long-haul flights while maintaining economy pricing, though exact costs remain undisclosed. The initiative addresses passenger demand for improved airline comfort amid challenges including pricing hikes, security delays, and safety concerns.Read more →
Gizmodo...Privacy Isn’t the Only Thing Plaguing Meta’s Smart GlassesMeta's Ray-Ban smart glasses face regulatory obstacles in Europe due to EU requirements for removable batteries by 2027 and unclear AI regulations that may restrict the device's core AI-dependent features. The company is actively seeking exemptions from these rules, which represent more significant barriers to European expansion than the previously cited supply constraints. Privacy concerns are also mounting in the U.S., adding further complexity to the global rollout of the AI-enabled glasses.Read more →
TechCrunch...How soap opera-TikTok hybrids became a billion-dollar businessMicro dramas, a new category of short-form vertical mobile content, have become a multi-billion dollar industry with ReelShort generating $1.2 billion in consumer spending last year. These mobile-first scripted shows combine traditional soap opera narratives with TikTok-style engagement mechanics designed to maximize user retention. Industry experts view the sector as still in its early stages, comparable to the MySpace era, suggesting significant potential for future consolidation and growth.Read more →
TechCrunch...Harvey confirms $11B valuation: Sequoia triples downHarvey, an AI-powered legal tech startup, has closed a $200 million funding round at an $11 billion valuation, bringing its total raised to over $1 billion. The round was co-led by GIC and Sequoia with participation from major venture firms, reflecting strong investor confidence in AI applications for legal services.Read more →
The Verge...Live-service games are such a mess even Fortnite is strugglingEpic Games laid off over 1,000 employees due to declining Fortnite engagement and operational costs exceeding revenue, signaling unsustainability of the live-service gaming model even for the industry's most successful title. The move reflects a broader crisis across the gaming industry where publishers' investments in live-service games have failed to generate expected returns. This development may signal a critical inflection point for the gaming industry's business model strategy.Read more →
The Verge...Senate Democrats are trying to ‘codify’ Anthropic's red lines on autonomous weapons and mass surveillanceSenators Schiff and Slotkin are drafting legislation to mandate human oversight in military AI use and prevent mass domestic surveillance, following Anthropic's stand against unrestricted Pentagon access to its AI models. The bills ensure humans retain control over life-and-death decisions, addressing the Trump administration's recent blacklisting of Anthropic for its ethical constraints on military applications.Read more →
Gizmodo...A Common ADHD Med Might Not Raise Psychosis Risk After AllA UK study of 700,000 Finnish residents found no evidence that long-term methylphenidate (Ritalin) use increases psychotic disorder risk in ADHD patients, despite prior concerns about stimulant medications. While people with ADHD show higher baseline psychosis risk, the drug itself does not contribute to this elevated risk and may even provide slight protective effects when started before age 13. The findings reassure doctors, patients, and families about the safety of prolonged stimulant treatment for ADHD.Read more →
Gizmodo...Watch a Creepy as Hell Clip From the Excellent Game Adaptation ‘Exit 8’ (Exclusive)Exit 8, a film adaptation premiering April 10, blurs the boundary between games and cinema through innovative cinematography and practical effects that engage audiences as both players and spectators. Director Genki Kawamura translates the game's confined underground setting into a unique cinematic experience that explores universal themes of guilt and moral choice in modern urban life.Read more →
The Verge...You can install these wireless security cameras over half a mile awayXthings has introduced Ulticam security systems that utilize Wi-Fi HaLow technology to enable remote camera installations with extended range capabilities of up to 0.6 miles. This advancement allows for more flexible and expansive security coverage in areas where traditional Wi-Fi connectivity is limited or unavailable.Read more →
TechCrunch...Granola raises $125M, hits $1.5B valuation as it expands from meeting notetaker to enterprise AI appGranola secured $125 million in Series C funding, reaching a $1.5 billion valuation, as it transitions from a consumer meeting transcription app to enterprise software. The company is launching team workspace features and personal/enterprise APIs to enable bulk note access and AI workflow integration.Read more →
Engadget...Mark Zuckerberg, Jensen Huang and Sergey Brin join Trump's tech advisory panelMajor technology leaders including Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg, NVIDIA CEO Jensen Huang, and venture capitalist Marc Andreessen have joined President Trump's President's Council of Advisors on Science and Technology (PCAST) to advise on federal tech and science policy. The council will focus on emerging technologies' impact on the American workforce and positioning the US as a global AI leader. The appointments raise potential conflicts of interest concerns, as these companies have donated millions to Trump's political initiatives and could benefit from favorable federal regulations.Read more →
TechCrunch...Meta launches new initiative to support entrepreneurship, drive AI adoptionMeta has announced Meta Small Business, a company-wide initiative aimed at supporting entrepreneurship and accelerating AI adoption among small business owners. CEO Mark Zuckerberg emphasized that AI technology should make it easier for entrepreneurs to launch and grow new businesses, positioning the effort as critical for ensuring broad participation in the prosperity created by advanced AI systems. The initiative will be led by Meta President Dina Powell McCormick and head of product Naomi Gleit.Read more →
The Verge...Mark Zuckerberg and Jensen Huang are part of Trump’s new ‘tech panel’A new council has been established to provide strategic advice on artificial intelligence, economic policy, education, and national security matters. This advisory body aims to inform policy decisions across critical sectors affecting the nation's competitiveness and security priorities.Read more →
The Verge...Amazon's Big Spring Sale 2026: all of the latest dealsAmazon's Big Spring Sale, running through April 1st, offers significant discounts across consumer electronics including personal audio, home theater, video games, mobile accessories, and outdoor gear. The sale is open to all customers regardless of Prime membership, with major retailers like Best Buy, Walmart, and Target matching many of the promotional prices.Read more →
Engadget...Stephen Colbert is writing a new Lord of the Rings movieA new Lord of the Rings film titled 'Shadow of the Past' is in development with Stephen Colbert co-writing alongside screenwriter Philippa Boyens and his son Peter. The film is set 14 years after Return of the King and will follow Sam, Merry, and Pippin as they retrace their journey, with Sam's daughter Elanor as a central character on her own quest.Read more →
Engadget...Anthropic releases safer Claude Code 'auto mode' to avoid mass file deletions and other AI snafusAnthropic is previewing 'auto mode' for Claude Code, which uses a classifier system to balance autonomy with safety by permitting safe actions while preventing risky operations such as mass file deletions and unauthorized data access. This feature aims to reduce the likelihood of Claude executing potentially harmful commands while maintaining productivity in coding workflows.Read more →
TechCrunch...Arbor Energy just landed a billion-dollar order to bring rocket turbine tech to the power gridEnergy startup Arbor Energy secured a single-digit billion-dollar deal to supply up to 5 gigawatts of modular Halcyon turbines to GridMarket for data center and industrial power needs. The 3D-printed turbines, based on rocket turbomachinery technology, generate 25 megawatts each and support both biomass and natural gas fuels with carbon capture capabilities. First deployment is planned for 2028 as Arbor targets faster time-to-market than traditional turbine makers facing supply chain constraints.Read more →
TechCrunch...Meta turns to AI to make shopping easier on Instagram and FacebookMeta is testing AI-powered shopping features on Facebook and Instagram that summarize product reviews and information to enable faster purchases directly within the apps. The integrated checkout experience, powered by partnerships with Stripe, PayPal, and other payment providers, eliminates friction by allowing transactions to complete without leaving Meta's platforms. This initiative aims to increase sales revenue and compete with TikTok and Amazon in the e-commerce space while expanding creator monetization opportunities.Read more →
TechCrunch...Sony and Honda give up on their joint EV projectSony Honda Mobility has canceled its Afeela sedan and SUV following Honda's strategic pivot away from U.S. EV production, driven by tariffs and increased competition from Chinese manufacturers. The cancellation leaves the joint venture's future uncertain with implications for its employees across Tokyo and California. This decision reflects broader market challenges where multiple automakers are abandoning or delaying electric vehicle programs due to policy shifts and competitive pressures.Read more →
The Verge...Ring finally brings 4K video to its battery-powered doorbell cameraA company unveiled a new lineup of video doorbells featuring one 4K model and three 2K options, with pricing starting at $80. This product range offers consumers multiple resolution choices at an accessible price point for home security monitoring.Read more →
The Verge...Keychron’s mechanical keyboards are up to 60 percent offMajor retailers Amazon and Walmart are offering the latest tech models at their lowest-ever prices, while alternative retailers like Woot feature discounted older models. These deals provide consumers with multiple purchasing options across different price points for electronics.Read more →
Gizmodo...Brandon Sanderson’s ‘Magic: The Gathering’ Novella Is Back—at a Hefty PriceBrandon Sanderson's acclaimed Magic: The Gathering novella 'Children of the Nameless' is being published for the first time in print through a limited deluxe edition of 1,500 signed copies priced at $250. An unsigned version of 5,000 copies will follow next month, with wider availability and digital editions in development.Read more →
The Verge...Apple’s iOS 26.4 update adds age verification in the UKApple now requires users in the UK to verify their age with the launch of iOS 26.4. In a support page on Apple's website, the company says users must confirm that they're over 18 to "use certain services or features, or take certain actions on their account." UK users can confirm their age by scanning […]Read more →
Gizmodo...The Great Salt Lake Is Hiding Something Big, Study SuggestsAn airborne electromagnetic survey of the Great Salt Lake has revealed a deep freshwater reservoir extending 10,000 to 13,000 feet beneath the lakebed, far deeper than previously expected. This discovery could help mitigate severe dust pollution affecting Utah communities by potentially providing freshwater to wet the rapidly shrinking lake's exposed bed. Scientists are investigating how to sustainably utilize this subsurface resource without disrupting the freshwater system.Read more →
TechCrunch...Elon Musk pauses changes to X’s creator revenue-sharing program after backlashX announced a creator monetization policy prioritizing impressions from local audiences to discourage algorithm gaming and misinformation, but reversed the decision within hours following widespread criticism. The policy would have reduced earnings for creators posting content in English or about international topics outside their home region. The change was designed to encourage locally-relevant content creation while combating bad actors spreading misinformation.Read more →
CNET...30 Shark Vacuums Are on Sale Right Now. These Are the 2 Best DealsAmazon's Big Spring Sale offers significant discounts on Shark cordless vacuums, including the Shark Stratos at $300 (reduced from $500) and the Shark Clean & Empty at $250 (down from $350). The Shark Stratos achieved exceptional lab test results with 97.2% sand pickup on hardwood and over 94% debris removal from carpet, complemented by an 80-minute battery life. The Clean & Empty model adds convenience through automatic self-emptying functionality, making premium cordless cleaning technology more accessible at reduced prices.Read more →
Gizmodo...‘Jumanji 3’ Is Moving Out of the Way of ‘Avengers: Doomsday’ and ‘Dune: Part Three’Entertainment industry news covers multiple film and television projects in development, including Michael Mando joining Netflix's live-action Gundam adaptation and Disney naming directors for its Cinderella reimagining. The roundup features updates on horror and supernatural thrillers, casting announcements, and release date changes including Jumanji 3 moving to Christmas Day to avoid competition with other major releases.Read more →
The Verge...The best deals we’ve found from Amazon’s Big Spring Sale (so far)Amazon's third annual Big Spring Sale runs through March 31st, offering discounts on consumer electronics including speakers, headphones, robot vacuums, and smart home devices. While deals are less steep than Black Friday or Prime Day, the sale represents an early-year savings opportunity to mitigate tariff-related price increases. The article provides curated recommendations for tested and verified products worth purchasing across multiple gadget categories.Read more →
CNET...58 of the Best TV Shows on Netflix That Will Keep You EntertainedNetflix's recommendation roundup helps viewers overcome decision paralysis by curating a list of the streamer's best shows, from iconic series like Stranger Things and The Crown to underrated originals. The guide provides a time-saving solution to the common problem of spending hours searching Netflix without committing to a show, featuring both classics and newly available content.Read more →
Engadget...Ring adds 4K to its battery-powered video doorbellsRing announced upgraded battery-powered video doorbells, with the flagship Battery Doorbell Pro (2nd gen) now featuring 4K video, 10x zoom, and extended battery life, while lower-end models receive 2K imaging and 6x zoom capabilities. The company launched new Solar Charger and Solar Panel accessories that integrate into the doorbell mount to reduce charging frequency. These updates enable customers unable to install hardwired power connections to access premium video doorbell features previously available only in wired models.Read more →
The Verge...Dell made its new Pro laptops thinner and tweaked their naming scheme, againDell is launching a redesigned Pro laptop lineup with a modular motherboard design that enables thinner chassis, larger cooling systems, and improved battery performance. The new Pro 3, 5, and 7 models will be available in multiple sizes with both AMD Ryzen AI 400 and Intel Core Ultra Series 3 processors, offering Windows 11 or Ubuntu Linux options at launch in May. The company is also introducing updated entry-level Precision workstations and a lightweight Pro 14 Premium variant designed to compete in the premium ultraportable segment.Read more →
The Verge...Reolink’s first solar-powered floodlight camera offers wire-free home securityA subscription-free camera eliminates recurring costs while providing three months of battery-powered operation, enabling flexible installation anywhere without dependency on service subscriptions. The extended runtime and elimination of subscription fees address a significant cost pain point in the smart camera market.Read more →
TechCrunch...After pivoting, Y Combinator grad Glimpse raises $35M led by a16zGlimpse raised $35 million in Series A funding from Andreessen Horowitz to expand its AI-powered dispute-tracking platform that automates the process of identifying and recovering invalid deductions for retailers and brands. The platform uses AI agents to identify invalid deductions, file disputes, and recover lost revenue, reducing what is typically a manual and error-prone process. The company has partnered with over 200 retail brands and aims to become the AI infrastructure backbone for CPG and retail companies.Read more →
TechCrunch...Harbinger’s next product will be hybrid emergency vehiclesHarbinger, an electric vehicle platform startup, partnered with Frazer to build hybrid ambulances and mobile healthcare vehicles on its flexible modular chassis. The partnership also includes Harbinger's battery-based auxiliary power units as replacements for traditional generators in emergency vehicles. This deal demonstrates commercial vehicle adoption of EV platforms despite broader headwinds in the passenger vehicle market.Read more →
TechCrunch...Arinna raises $4M seed round to solve the space power problemArinna, a Stanford-founded startup, raised $4 million to develop ultrathin solar panels using transition metal dichalcogenides for spacecraft applications. The company's technology offers 32% greater efficiency, improved durability against cosmic radiation, and faster delivery compared to current satellite solar panels. Arinna plans to conduct orbital tests of its first qualification panels by year-end 2026, with mass production at megawatt scale targeted for 2028.Read more →
TechCrunch...With Sift Stack, two ex-SpaceX engineers are bringing the software that helped launch rockets to the factory floorFactory automation is increasingly driven by software and AI rather than hardware alone, forcing companies to rethink their infrastructure priorities. Sift Stack, a data management platform for manufacturing companies, exemplifies this shift by pivoting from custom workflows to focusing on data infrastructure that feeds AI systems. As machines generate massive volumes of sensor data, the ability to organize and expose that data to AI applications has become a critical competitive advantage.Read more →
The Verge...Sony and Honda ain’t feelin’ the Afeela anymoreA $90,000 electric sedan has been discontinued and scrapped as automakers adjust to declining EV demand and shifting regulatory policies. The cancellation reflects broader market challenges facing the electric vehicle industry amid consumer hesitation and government incentive uncertainty.Read more →
Engadget...Sennheiser's owners want to sell its consumer headphone businessSonova has announced the divestment of its Sennheiser consumer audio division, which manufactures premium headphones, to refocus on its core hearing care business. The division, acquired less than five years ago to expand into younger demographics, will be auctioned to find a new owner. This strategic shift prioritizes Sonova's primary hearing aid market over the consumer audio segment.Read more →
CNET...We've Been Tracking Our Favorite Deals Across the Amazon Big Spring Sale and There Are a Ton of Great OnesAmazon's Big Spring Sale offers discounts across numerous product categories, including consumer electronics and home appliances, with some deals providing savings exceeding $200. While some listings feature inflated original prices disguised as discounts, the promotion includes genuine bargains on products like Apple AirTags, Sony headphones, and kitchen appliances. CNET has curated the most substantial savings to help consumers identify authentic deals during the promotional period.Read more →
CNET...Should You Upgrade to the iPhone 17E? How It Compares to iPhone 14, 15 and 16Apple announced the iPhone 17E, bringing premium features from its flagship model to the budget segment at $599, including a 48-megapixel camera, A19 chip, 256GB base storage, and MagSafe support. The device offers significant improvements over older models like the iPhone 14 with better battery life, Ceramic Shield 2 protection, and Apple Intelligence support, though it trades camera versatility with a single sensor and retains a traditional notch instead of Dynamic Island. The upgrade is most compelling for users with iPhone 14 or older devices, while iPhone 16 users may find the improvements marginal.Read more →
CNET...We're All Flailing With AI: I Tried Art That Pokes Back at the ChaosSXSW 2026 showcased AI-integrated art and gaming experiences that reveal both the creative potential and emerging concerns about authenticity, manipulation, and design ethics. Interactive installations using AI-generated dialogue, deepfakes, and voice synthesis demonstrated rapid technological advancement, though many raised questions about whether design and ethical considerations can keep pace with development.Read more →
CNET...Samsung's Galaxy A37, A57 New Pricing Tests the Limits of a Plastic PhoneSamsung introduced the Galaxy A37 ($450) and Galaxy A57 ($550), marking a $50 price increase over their predecessors, attributed to market conditions and RAM shortages. Both devices feature IP68 water resistance and an updated Circle to Search with Galaxy AI photo editing tools. The A37 offers plastic construction with multiple color options, while the A57 upgrades to a metal body and lighter design at 179 grams.Read more →
CNET...I've Tested Phones for 14 Years and These Are the Most Bizarre I've SeenA veteran tech journalist reflects on 15 years of encountering unusual experimental phones that attempted innovative designs but mostly failed in the marketplace. The article examines various quirky devices including square BlackBerrys, dual-display phones, and crypto-focused models, showing how creative ideas often didn't translate to practical success. Notable exceptions like Samsung's Galaxy Note and Galaxy Fold eventually influenced industry trends despite initial skepticism.Read more →
Gizmodo...This ‘Star Trek Online’ Trailer Is Actually a Killer ‘Enterprise’ DocumentaryStar Trek Online released a creative 14-minute documentary-style trailer celebrating multiple anniversaries by featuring Enterprise-era ships coming to the game, framing them as historical vessels rather than promotional content. The trailer explores an under-explored period of Star Trek continuity between Enterprise and the Original Series, offering both real-world anniversary celebration and in-universe historical perspective.Read more →
The Verge...Samsung’s Galaxy A57 gets thinner, faster, and more expensiveSamsung has announced its two newest midrange phones, the Galaxy A57 and A37. Both phones benefit from a jump to IP68 water-resistance and some improved AI features, but the bigger upgrades are reserved for the A57, which is now thinner, lighter, and has a slimmer bezel around the display. The downside? They both also cost […]Read more →
Engadget...Samsung Galaxy A37 and A57 hands-on: The cheaper phone might be a winnerSamsung launched the Galaxy A37 ($450) and A57 ($550) as competitively priced midrange phones, with the A37 offering superior value through a large 6.7-inch AMOLED display, improved Exynos 1480 processor, and AI features like Circle to Search and Object Eraser. The A37 emerges as the stronger proposition against competitors like the Pixel 10a, while the more expensive A57 faces stiffer competition from the Galaxy S25 FE and other alternatives.Read more →
Engadget...Apple introduces age verification for iCloud accounts in the UKApple has implemented age verification requirements in iOS 26.4 for UK users, requiring proof of being 18 years or older via credit card or ID verification to access certain services. The company automatically enables Web Content Filter and Communication Safety features for users under 18 and those who cannot verify their age, restricting website access and warning about explicit content. This initiative enhances protection for minors while establishing stronger age-gating mechanisms across Apple's ecosystem.Read more →
The Verge...Anthropic’s Claude Code gets ‘safer’ auto modeAnthropic has launched an 'auto mode' for Claude Code that enables the AI to make permissions-level decisions autonomously while implementing safeguards to prevent risky actions like file deletion or unauthorized data access. The feature provides a safer middle ground between constant user supervision and unrestricted AI autonomy. Currently available as a research preview for Team plan users, with expansion to Enterprise and API users expected in the coming days.Read more →
CNET...Get the Most Accurate Readings With the 4 Best Chest Strap Heart-Rate Monitors for Your WorkoutsThis article reviews three chest strap heart-rate monitors for fitness tracking: the Polar H10 (premium, most accurate), the CooSpo H808S (budget-friendly), and the MyZone MZ Switch (beginner-friendly with dual strap design). Each monitor offers different advantages depending on user needs, activity type, and budget constraints. The review provides guidance on which device is best suited for different fitness goals and user profiles.Read more →
Gizmodo...Polar’s Cheaper Street X Smartwatch Is Here to Steal Away Garmin UsersPolar launched the Street X, a $250 fitness-focused smartwatch that combines premium features from higher-end Garmin models without requiring a monthly subscription. The watch supports 170 sports and activities with advanced sleep and recovery monitoring, military-grade durability (MIL-STD-810H), and up to 10 days of battery life. This positions Polar to directly compete with Garmin's mid-range smartwatch offerings at a significantly lower price point.Read more →
Gizmodo...Andy Weir Says ‘Project Hail Mary’ Improved on the Book in One Very Specific PlaceProject Hail Mary's film adaptation removes the rare gene explanation from Andy Weir's book, instead justifying the protagonist's selection for the space mission through his expertise and circumstance. Author Weir praised the screenwriter and directors' choice, noting that the movie's approach eliminates what he felt was a contrived narrative device in his original novel.Read more →
The Verge...It's always a good time to revisit Super Mario Bros. WonderSuper Mario Bros. Wonder receives a substantial $20 expansion for Nintendo Switch 2 featuring seven new challenging levels with boss battles and a training camp with progressive difficulty challenges. The expansion includes 17 multiplayer minigames that transform the game into a Mario Party-like experience, along with new playable character Rosalina and additional power-ups. This robust update significantly extends gameplay longevity with fresh content for both single-player and multiplayer experiences.Read more →
TechCrunch...Lucid Bots raises $20M to keep up with demand for its window-washing dronesLucid Bots, a robotics startup making window cleaning drones and building maintenance robots, raised $20 million in Series B funding, bringing total funding to $34 million. The company has achieved strong commercial traction, growing from 100 units sold in five years to approaching 1,000 units, with demand significantly outpacing manufacturing capacity. The startup is expanding into adjacent services like painting and waterproofing for buildings.Read more →
Gizmodo...Roborock Kicks Off Spring Cleaning Season With Up to $300 Off Select Powerful Robot VacuumsRoborock has released the F25 Ultra and F25 GT, all-in-one wet-dry vacuum cleaners that combine vacuuming and mopping in a single pass, eliminating the need for separate tools and streamlining floor cleaning routines. The F25 Ultra features 22,000Pa suction power with steam cleaning at 356°F, while the lighter F25 GT offers 20,000Pa suction for smaller spaces. Both models are on limited-time sale through March 31, with prices dropping to $499.99 and $189.99 respectively.Read more →
Gizmodo...Report: Apple Is Testing Features That Will Put Siri All Over Your iPhone ExperienceApple plans to debut a redesigned, AI-powered Siri at WWDC on June 8, featuring multiple access points including a dedicated app, Dynamic Island integration, and inline keyboard options with chatbot-like threaded conversations. The update aims to make Siri ubiquitous across iOS 27 similar to Google's Gemini integration, though advanced personalization features are delayed until later in 2026.Read more →
CNET...The Best Hair Dryers of 2026, Tested on 6 Different Hair TypesCNET experts reviewed multiple hair dryer models tested across different hair types to identify the best options for various needs and budgets. Top recommendations include the Shark Ionic SpeedStyle for overall performance, Dyson Supersonic for curly hair, and Conair Ion Shine 1875 for budget-conscious consumers. The review evaluates factors including price, weight, attachments, heat settings, and intelligent heat control technology to help reduce hair damage.Read more →
Engadget...Sony and Honda kill its Afeela EVsSony Honda Mobility is discontinuing development of its Afeela electric vehicles due to mounting losses and competitive pressures in the EV market. Honda recorded a $15.7 billion EV-related loss partly driven by US policy changes that removed federal EV tax credits and imposed tariffs, making the expensive Afeela project economically unfeasible.Read more →
CNET...Apple TV: 15 of the Best Sci-Fi Shows You Should Stream Right NowApple TV's rebranding and limited discoverability make it challenging for viewers to find its quality science fiction content, which relies on organic word-of-mouth discovery. The platform offers standout sci-fi series like Severance, For All Mankind, Murderbot, and Dark Matter with strong storytelling and world-building. This curated guide helps viewers navigate the platform and discover the best science fiction shows available.Read more →
Gizmodo...A Program Is Now Sending Basic Income Payments to AI-Impacted WorkersA nonprofit program called the AI Dividend has begun issuing monthly payments of $1,000 to people negatively impacted by AI-related job losses, currently reaching 25-50 individuals. The initiative addresses growing concerns about AI-related layoffs and 'AI washing,' where companies cite AI to justify workforce reductions for investor appeal. The program reflects broader discussions about universal basic income as a potential remedy for societal disruption caused by AI proliferation.Read more →
Engadget...X is changing its revenue-sharing policy to deter users pretending to be AmericansX is revising its revenue-sharing model to prioritize engagement from users' home regions and language groups, discouraging accounts outside the US from creating US-politics content that artificially inflates engagement metrics. The policy, effective March 26, aims to encourage creators to produce locally relevant content rather than gaming the platform's largest markets.Read more →
Gizmodo...Kindly Uncle Unleashes Fires of Hell With Giant Boosted Tesla CoilGreg Leyh has upgraded his colossal Tesla coil, originally built in 1990, to produce significantly higher output currents using pulse forming network and plasma channel technology. Demonstrations of the enhanced system show devastating effects on electronics and structures, including destroying incandescent tubes, obliterating test buildings, and completely liquefying a car's electronics. The device currently operates at a 30-foot range but could potentially extend to 300 feet through relativistic runaway breakdown.Read more →
Gizmodo...Another New ‘Lord of the Rings’ Movie Is in the WorksWarner Bros. announced a new Lord of the Rings film titled 'Shadow of the Past,' set 14 years after Return of the King, featuring Sam, Merry, and Pippin reuniting to retrace their original adventure. The story follows Sam's daughter Elanor as she uncovers secrets from the early War of the Ring that nearly prevented the mission to destroy the One Ring. Stephen Colbert co-wrote the screenplay, drawing from chapters of Fellowship of the Ring not included in Peter Jackson's film adaptation.Read more →
TechCrunch...A former Thiel fellow’s startup just launched a drone it says can replace police helicoptersBrinc launched Guardian, an advanced public safety drone designed as a police helicopter replacement, featuring 60 mph speed, 62-minute flight time, embedded Starlink connectivity, and thermal/4K cameras with zoom. Recent restrictions on foreign drones have created significant market opportunity, with Brinc positioning itself as 'the DJI of the West' to capture an estimated $6-8 billion U.S. public safety market.Read more →
The Verge...The BB-777 is the ultimate in boombox nostalgiaThe BB-777 is a modern recreation of the iconic Sharp GF-777 boombox, bringing classic retro design to the contemporary consumer electronics market. This product targets the growing demand for vintage-inspired audio devices among consumers seeking nostalgic entertainment equipment. The boombox combines retro aesthetics with modern functionality for audio playback and listening.Read more →
Gizmodo...‘Daredevil: Born Again’ Season 2 Is a Slow Burn That’s Worth the WaitDaredevil: Born Again season two starts slowly with repetitive storytelling but is redeemed by exceptional final three episodes that deliver powerful narrative payoffs and action sequences. Matt Murdock's battle against Kingpin and the AVTF is elevated by strong ensemble performances, with the finale praised as one of Marvel Studios' best television episodes, perfectly concluding one chapter while launching an unexpectedly new direction.Read more →
CNET...'Daredevil: Born Again' Season 2 Review: Series Soars With Unexpected Turns, Pumped-Up Suspense and Fierce ActionDaredevil: Born Again season 2 delivers intense action and complex storytelling centered on Matt Murdock's conflict with Kingpin in a power-corrupted New York City. The season maintains the series' signature visceral violence and superhero crime drama appeal while exploring themes of redemption and justice through well-executed fight choreography and compelling performances. With strong supporting characters and high production values, the sophomore season sustains momentum throughout its eight episodes.Read more →
TechCrunch...Amazon just bought a startup making kid-size humanoid robotsAmazon has acquired Fauna Robotics, a startup founded by former Meta and Google engineers that develops kid-size humanoid robots. The acquisition combines Fauna's robotics innovation with Amazon's retail and home automation expertise to advance humanoid robot development. Fauna has already begun shipping its first product, a 59-pound bipedal robot called Sprout, to select research partners.Read more →
TechCrunch...With $3.5B in fresh capital, Kleiner Perkins is going all in on AIKleiner Perkins raised $3.5 billion across early-stage and late-stage investment vehicles, a significant increase from its $2 billion fundraise two years ago. The capital increase reflects the firm's strong track record investing in high-growth AI startups and maintaining positions in major companies like Anthropic and SpaceX expected to IPO this year. Recent successful exits including Figma's IPO and portfolio acquisitions demonstrate the firm's continued investment returns and market positioning.Read more →
Gizmodo...‘Watershed Moment’: Meta Just Lost a Huge Court Case About Child SafetyMeta was found liable by a New Mexico jury for misleading consumers about platform safety and endangering children, resulting in $375 million in civil penalties. The verdict marks the first state court case to hold Meta accountable for intentionally designing platforms to addict young people and failing to protect minors from sexual exploitation. The case sets a significant precedent as other states and the federal government increase scrutiny of social media's impact on child safety and mental health.Read more →
CNET...The BlackBerry-Esque Smartphone With a Full Keyboard Just Launched on KickstarterUnihertz is launching the Titan 2 Elite, an Android smartphone featuring a full backlit QWERTY keyboard, marking a resurgence in physical keyboard-equipped mobile devices. The device exceeded its $100,000 Kickstarter goal with over $2.1 million pledged from 4,500+ backers, demonstrating significant consumer demand for tactile input methods. Available at $396-$486 during crowdfunding, the Titan 2 Elite represents both a nostalgic return to BlackBerry-era phones and a viable alternative in the modern smartphone market.Read more →
TechCrunch...New Mexico just handed Meta its first courtroom defeat over child safety, and the rest of the country is watchingA Santa Fe jury ordered Meta to pay $375 million in civil penalties for misleading consumers about platform safety and endangering children, marking the first jury verdict against the company on child harm claims. Evidence demonstrated that Meta executives knew their products harmed children but disregarded internal warnings and misled the public about known risks. The verdict opens the door to additional penalties and court-mandated platform changes through an ongoing bench trial phase.Read more →
TechCrunch...Lululemon bets Epoch Biodesign can eat its shorts, literallyEpoch Biodesign has developed an enzyme-based process to break down textile waste into monomers that can be used to manufacture new plastic. By using waste material instead of petroleum, the company avoids supply volatility while recovering over 90% of desired compounds. The startup raised $12 million and plans to open a commercial facility by 2028.Read more →
TechCrunch...OpenAI’s Sora was the creepiest app on your phone — now it’s shutting downOpenAI has discontinued Sora, its AI-powered social media application launched six months ago, due to inability to sustain user engagement despite initial hype. The app faced significant challenges including content moderation failures that enabled unauthorized deepfakes of public figures, declining downloads from peak usage, and a canceled Disney partnership worth $1 billion. The underlying Sora 2 video generation model remains available through ChatGPT's API.Read more →
CNET...Apple May Give Siri a Big AI Overhaul in iOS 27Apple is developing a major redesign of Siri to function as a standalone AI chatbot, similar to ChatGPT, featuring a new interface and dedicated button to increase visibility across its ecosystem. The overhaul is expected to be announced at WWDC on June 8 and deployed in iOS 27, iPadOS 27, and macOS 27 later this year. This marks Apple's renewed push to compete in the generative AI space after previous delays to its advanced Siri initiatives.Read more →
TechCrunch...Accel, Prosus pick six ‘off-the-map’ startups for inaugural India cohortAccel and Prosus announced their first joint venture cohort in India, backing six startups tackling unconventional problems in healthcare, space, climate, and longevity with long development timelines and uncertain markets. The selected companies span air quality systems, satellite communications, reusable orbital launch vehicles, cancer detection, and brain-computer interfaces, with investments ranging from $500,000 to $2 million. The investment structure prioritizes long-term breakthroughs over near-term growth, deferring equity to reduce early dilution for founders.Read more →
Engadget...Meta is letting creators fill their Reels with shopping linksMeta is expanding creator monetization by allowing up to 30 clickable product links directly in Reels on Facebook and Instagram, matching features already available on TikTok and YouTube Shorts. The feature simplifies affiliate marketing for creators and brand partnerships while giving Meta access to valuable consumer purchasing data to enhance its advertising business. This could drive higher conversion rates for creator-recommended products but may also increase the visibility of promotional content on the platform.Read more →
The Verge...Instagram and Facebook are about to be filled with affiliate contentInfluencers will gain the ability to directly embed product links within their content, similar to TikTok Shop's existing functionality. This feature streamlines the path to purchase and enhances monetization opportunities for content creators while improving the consumer shopping experience.Read more →
CNET...A Historic Heat Dome Is Creeping Across the US. Here's How to PrepareA record-breaking heat dome is sweeping across the United States, reaching temperatures of 112 degrees Fahrenheit and spreading eastward to affect up to one-third of mainland states. The phenomenon poses significant public health risks, with heat being the leading weather-related cause of death in the US, while climate researchers confirm such extreme events are now virtually impossible without human-induced climate change.Read more →
Engadget...Jury rules against Meta, orders $375 million fine in major child safety trialA New Mexico jury found Meta liable on all counts for violating state consumer protection laws related to child safety and exploitation, ordering the company to pay $375 million. The verdict concluded that Meta knowingly misled consumers about platform safety despite internal awareness of harms including sextortion, self-harm content, and grooming risks. The state will pursue an additional public nuisance claim against Meta in a bench trial scheduled for May.Read more →
Gizmodo...R.I.P Sora (2024-2026)OpenAI is discontinuing Sora, its AI video generation model and consumer app, as the company refocuses on business and productivity tools. Despite initial technological breakthroughs, the platform failed to build sustained user engagement despite viral deepfaking features. The fate of the underlying Sora model remains uncertain, with OpenAI still determining whether it will be preserved, integrated elsewhere, or discontinued entirely.Read more →
TechCrunch...Kentucky woman rejects $26 million offer to turn her farm into a data centerA Kentucky family refused a $26 million offer from an AI company to build a data center on their 1,200-acre farm, citing concerns about environmental damage including water shortages and ground poisoning. The company is now seeking to rezone over 2,000 nearby acres to build the facility regardless, highlighting tensions between data center expansion and agricultural land preservation.Read more →
Gizmodo...This is What Has Become of the Humane Ai Pin: An Enterprise Laptop ChatbotHP has launched HP IQ, an on-device AI chatbot for commercial laptops that runs a 20-billion parameter model locally to process tasks while preserving user privacy. Built by former Humane executives using CosmOS technology from the failed Ai Pin, it handles routine office work like document summaries, transcription, and file analysis without sending sensitive data to the cloud. The feature will begin rolling out to HP EliteBook X laptops in spring 2026, with consumer laptops expected to receive it in 2027.Read more →
CNET...Meta Ordered to Pay $375M in New Mexico Child Exploitation LawsuitA New Mexico jury found Meta violated state consumer protection laws by misleading users about child safety on Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp, resulting in a $375 million penalty. The state alleged that Meta executives knew their platforms were harming children but prioritized profits over safety. The attorney general announced plans to seek additional penalties and require the company to implement platform changes to protect minors.Read more →
CNET...Anthropic's AI Piracy Settlement Is Getting Close to Final ApprovalA landmark copyright settlement between authors and Anthropic is nearing final approval, with nearly 100,000 claims filed seeking compensation for alleged unauthorized use of their works in training Claude. Anthropic will pay $1.5 billion total, with qualifying authors receiving $3,000 per work, marking the largest copyright payout in history. The company certified that no pirated content was used in released Claude models and committed to destroying all pirated materials.Read more →
Engadget...Sony is reportedly shutting down Dark Outlaw Games, run by former Call of Duty directorSony is shutting down Dark Outlaw Games, a first-party studio led by former Call of Duty producer Jason Blundell. The closure reflects the company's retreat from live-service multiplayer games following previous failures and abandoned projects, with the company also cutting PlayStation mobile development staff.Read more →
The Verge...Meta misled users about its products’ safety, jury decidesNew Mexico secured a historic $375 million jury verdict against Meta, marking the opening case in a series of nationwide lawsuits. This significant judgment represents a major legal victory and potential precedent for future litigation against the technology giant. The verdict underscores mounting legal and regulatory challenges facing Meta across multiple states.Read more →
CNET...NASA's Ignition Program: Skipping the Lunar Orbiter and Going Straight for a Moon BaseNASA has announced Ignition, a new initiative that scraps the Lunar Gateway orbital station in favor of constructing a permanent base on the moon, aiming to return humans to the lunar surface before the end of President Trump's term. The multi-phase program, spanning seven years with a $20 billion budget, represents a strategic shift to maintain American leadership in space amid competition from China. The initiative also includes replacing the International Space Station by 2030 and launching a nuclear-powered spacecraft to Mars in 2028.Read more →
The Verge...NASA wants to put a $20 billion base on the MoonNASA Administrator Jared Isaacman announced plans to launch a nuclear-powered spacecraft to Mars by the end of 2028, marking a significant milestone in deep space exploration. This initiative demonstrates a major technological advancement and renewed commitment to human Mars missions, leveraging nuclear propulsion to overcome current limitations in space travel.Read more →
CNET...Turn a Photo Into a 5-Second Video With Snapchat's AI Clips FeatureSnapchat has launched AI Clips, a feature that generates 5-second AI videos from a single photograph using developer-created lens templates through its $9/month Lens Plus subscription. The closed-prompt system enables both experienced and new developers to build and monetize AI video experiences, making AI video generation accessible to general users and creators.Read more →
Engadget...Baltimore sues xAI over Grok deepfakesBaltimore filed a municipal lawsuit against xAI, alleging that the company violated consumer protection laws by marketing Grok without adequately disclosing associated risks. The lawsuit stems from Grok's image generation tool being misused to create millions of sexualized images, including thousands of minors, highlighting critical gaps in AI safety oversight.Read more →
Gizmodo...Disney Says It Will Find Ways to Peddle Slop Elsewhere After Pulling Out of OpenAI DealOpenAI has announced it is shuttering its Sora video generation platform, effectively ending a $1 billion partnership with Disney announced just months earlier. Under the deal, Sora would have been able to generate short videos featuring over 200 Disney, Marvel, Pixar, and Star Wars characters for fans. While Disney respects OpenAI's decision to exit video generation, the company indicates it will continue seeking AI partnerships with other platforms to engage audiences while protecting its intellectual property rights.Read more →
The Verge...What is ICE actually doing at the airport?A Department of Homeland Security shutdown has left TSA agents working without pay, causing staffing shortages and extended security lines at major airports nationwide. President Trump deployed ICE agents to assist with passenger processing, but observations revealed they were largely ineffective and uninvolved in crowd management. The political impasse over DHS funding continues as Congress negotiates priorities for TSA, border enforcement, and voter ID legislation.Read more →
CNET...15 Excellent Horror Movies to Watch on HBO MaxHBO Max provides an extensive collection of horror films, including popular titles such as The Substance and The Conjuring: Last Rites, making it an attractive option for genre enthusiasts. With pricing starting at $11 per month or $110 annually, and bundling options available with Disney Plus and Hulu, the platform offers flexible access to premium entertainment content.Read more →
CNET...Samsung's 2026 QLED and Mini LED TVs Boast AI Soccer ModeSamsung introduced four new TV models for 2026 with specialized AI Soccer Mode that optimizes display settings for a stadium-like viewing experience, featuring enhanced color, contrast, and motion clarity. The QLED QN80H and QN70H models, along with Mini LED M80H and M70H, offer sizes from 43 to 100 inches with advanced gaming support and seven years of software updates. Pricing ranges from $350 to $5,500 across the lineup.Read more →
Engadget...OpenAI is shutting down its Sora video generation appOpenAI is discontinuing its Sora video generation app and API to redirect resources toward world simulation research for robotics applications. The decision follows declining user interest since the platform's debut, with download and spending metrics showing consistent month-over-month decreases. The company will announce specific shutdown dates at a later time.Read more →
The Verge...OpenAI just gave up Sora and its billion-dollar Disney dealOpenAI is shutting down its video generator despite considerable industry hype and a major Disney partnership deal. The discontinuation represents a setback for the company's AI video generation ambitions. This decision highlights the market challenges even well-funded companies face in sustaining advanced AI video products.Read more →
CNET...Apple Watch Series 11 vs. Series 10: Is the New Smartwatch Worth the Upgrade?The Apple Watch Series 11 maintains the same design and pricing as the Series 10 but introduces significant battery improvements, delivering 24 hours versus 18 hours of usage on a single charge, with up to 38 hours in Low Power Mode. Key enhancements include 5G connectivity for cellular models and improved scratch-resistant glass, though the processor and sensors remain identical. This incremental update prioritizes power efficiency and connectivity rather than hardware redesign.Read more →
CNET...Best VPN for Mac for 2026: Improve Your Privacy for Web Browsing, Streaming and GamingCNET reviews the best VPN services for Mac computers, with Surfshark emerging as the top overall recommendation due to its split-tunneling capability and privacy features. The guide evaluates VPNs across critical performance metrics including encryption standards, server networks, speed impact, and streaming unblocking ability, helping users make informed decisions about online privacy protection based on their specific needs and budget.Read more →
TechCrunch...Anthropic hands Claude Code more control, but keeps it on a leashAnthropic has introduced 'auto mode,' a research preview feature that enables Claude to autonomously execute safe actions without human approval while automatically blocking risky operations through built-in safeguards and prompt injection detection. The feature addresses developer concerns about constantly supervising AI actions and represents industry movement toward autonomous AI tools that make their own permission decisions. Currently available to Enterprise and API users, auto mode only supports Claude Sonnet 4.6 and Opus 4.6 and is recommended for use in isolated, sandboxed environments.Read more →
CNET...Amazon's Big Spring Sale Is Tomorrow. Our Readers Are Already Eyeing These Tech DealsAmazon's Big Spring Sale from March 25-31 offers significant discounts on consumer tech products including headphones, smart home devices, and fitness trackers. The sale presents opportunities for consumers to upgrade older tech models at steep discounts, with CNET-curated recommendations helping shoppers identify the best value deals.Read more →
TechCrunch...Spotify tests new tool to stop AI slop from being attributed to real artistsSpotify is launching a beta 'Artist Profile Protection' feature that allows artists to review and approve releases before they appear on their profiles, addressing the growing problem of AI-generated music and metadata errors landing on incorrect artist pages. The tool aims to protect artist identity and prevent unauthorized tracks from impacting their catalog statistics, listener discovery, and fan engagement. This move comes after Sony Music requested removal of over 135,000 AI-generated songs impersonating its artists across streaming services.Read more →
Gizmodo...Watch First Video Evidence of Sperm Whales Headbutting Each OtherResearchers have documented sperm whale headbutting behavior through drone footage, confirming it as a recurring activity primarily among younger whales. The behavior appears to be rough play rather than dominance assertion, with whales communicating during interactions, though its exact purpose requires further study.Read more →
The Verge...Arm’s first CPU ever will plug into Meta’s AI datacenters later this yearArm introduced its new AGI CPU architecture supporting up to 136 cores per processor, claiming double the performance per watt compared to x86 chips. This represents a significant advancement in CPU efficiency for high-performance computing workloads.Read more →
The Verge...Apple is testing a standalone app for its overhauled SiriApple will debut a significantly enhanced Siri at WWDC 2026 as a systemwide AI agent with deep integration across iOS and macOS applications, capable of controlling apps and completing tasks using personal data. The new Siri will feature a dedicated chat-like app interface, improved web search with summaries and visual results, and redesigned UI elements, positioning it to compete with AI-powered search tools like Perplexity and Google Gemini.Read more →
TechCrunch...Databricks bought two startups to underpin its new AI security productDatabricks launched Lakewatch, a new security product powered by Claude AI agents that performs threat detection and investigation on massive datasets. The company acquired two startups, Antimatter and SiftD.ai, to build the platform, with security researcher Andrew Krioukov leading the team. This marks Databricks' expansion into the enterprise security market following its $5 billion funding round.Read more →
TechCrunch...Crusoe makes big battery buys for its data centersData center developer Crusoe will purchase 12 gigawatt-hours of Form Energy's iron-air batteries, with deliveries beginning in 2027. This deal follows Form Energy's $1 billion Google contract and demonstrates growing adoption of long-duration energy storage technology for powering data centers. The transaction supports Form Energy's expansion during its $500 million funding round.Read more →
CNET...Roku's $3 Howdy Streaming Service Is Now on Prime VideoRoku's Howdy streaming service, a $3-per-month ad-free platform launched in August 2025, is now available as an add-on subscription through Amazon Prime Video in the US, marking its first expansion beyond Roku devices. This integration allows Prime members direct access to Howdy's library of thousands of titles and over 10,000 hours of content, including rom-coms, dramas, and Roku originals. The partnership represents an opportunity for Roku to reach a broader audience while complementing premium streaming services.Read more →
Gizmodo...Epic Games Laying Off 1,000+ Employees, Swears AI Is Not to BlameEpic Games is laying off over 1,000 employees and implementing $500 million in cost savings due to declining Fortnite engagement, weaker consumer spending, and increased competition, despite the game's continued popularity. The company will refocus efforts on core Fortnite experiences with seasonal content and live events. CEO Tim Sweeney explicitly stated the layoffs are not related to AI, emphasizing the company wants to maintain developer capacity for content creation.Read more →
Gizmodo...‘Starfleet Academy’ Deserved Better Than ThisParamount has canceled Star Trek: Starfleet Academy after two seasons as the studio shifts from streaming toward theatrical releases, marking the first decade without active Star Trek television production. The cancellation reflects low Nielsen ratings, corporate cost-cutting amid major mergers, and management's pivot toward mainstream content targeting middle America. Though various factors contributed, critics argue the show deserved more time to develop its characters and find its audience.Read more →
Engadget...Apple could give Siri a standalone app and an 'Ask Siri' button in iOS 27Apple is launching a major Siri overhaul featuring a standalone app and new conversational "Ask Siri" interface that supports natural language requests via text or voice. The redesigned assistant will leverage personal data from messages, emails, and notes to complete requests, execute app tasks, access news, and perform web searches, directly competing with other AI chatbots. The update is expected in iOS 27 and macOS 27.Read more →
CNET...OpenAI's Once Viral Sora AI Video App Is Being DiscontinuedOpenAI is discontinuing Sora, its AI video app, and ending a $1 billion Disney licensing deal as the company pivots from consumer generative media to enterprise-focused AI tools. This decision reflects declining industry confidence in consumer AI video generation and marks a strategic shift toward business-oriented applications like coding and enterprise platforms.Read more →
CNET...Pokemon Champions Release Date: When Does the New Competitive Standard Come Out?Pokemon Champions, a free-to-play competitive battling game launching April 8 on Nintendo Switch, establishes a unified format for professional play at the 2026 World Championships. The game introduces new Mega Evolution abilities from Pokemon Legends: Z-A that could reshape the competitive meta. Free players face significant roster limitations without a Pokemon Home subscription, creating a substantial barrier to competitive engagement.Read more →
Gizmodo...Arm Lends a Hand, Launches In-House AI Chip With Meta as Its First CustomerArm unveiled its first in-house chipset, the Arm AGI CPU, designed for AI infrastructure in data centers, with Meta and companies like OpenAI and Cloudflare set to receive units. The move marks a significant shift from Arm's traditional licensing model to direct manufacturing and aims to address CPU production bottlenecks constraining AI infrastructure growth. This timely entry into CPU manufacturing comes as Intel and AMD face production delays amid accelerating demand for AI infrastructure.Read more →
The Verge...The man who coined Metaverse now says Meta's glasses are creepyA former Magic Leap executive reassesses their earlier conviction that wearable AR/VR devices would replace smartphones, concluding that handheld devices will likely remain dominant because consumers prefer them over face-mounted technology. Despite significant technological advancement and investment in wearable AR/VR, the experience of wearing devices on the face has proven less appealing to users than traditional handheld interfaces. This reflects the persistent challenge facing the AR/VR industry in achieving mainstream adoption.Read more →
CNET...Best Budget Laptops I've Tested: Cheap Computers for Every UseCNET provides expert recommendations for budget laptops under $1,000, featuring diverse options including Apple's MacBook Neo, Microsoft's Surface Laptop 7, and Acer's Aspire AI models optimized for various use cases. The article emphasizes key purchasing considerations such as processor choice, memory capacity, storage type, battery life, and display quality to help consumers find capable laptops that balance performance with affordability.Read more →
CNET...Today's NYT Connections: Sports Edition Hints and Answers for March 25, #548The New York Times Connections: Sports Edition puzzle features themed word groupings including table games, Nike shoe models, Giants baseball legends, and NBA-related terms. Published by The Athletic and available through their app and online, the puzzle challenges players to identify four word categories of varying difficulty levels. Today's puzzle solutions include air hockey, foosball, pool and snooker for the yellow group, and corresponding answers across blue, green, and purple categories.Read more →
CNET...How Gamers Can Sneak Some Playtime Into Their Gym WorkoutsGaming during gym workouts can be achieved through cloud streaming services or handheld gaming devices, with various equipment options available depending on preference. The article recommends stationary bikes, treadmill walks, and weightlifting rest periods as optimal times for gaming, providing practical guidance on integrating entertainment with exercise. This approach helps maintain workout motivation and efficiently uses downtime during physical training sessions.Read more →
Engadget...Zoox is bringing its robotaxi to new cities and expanding coverage in Las Vegas and San FranciscoZoox has expanded its robotaxi service to Austin and Miami, with additional coverage increases in San Francisco and Las Vegas. Initial rides are available to employees and friends, with expanded pickup locations at major Las Vegas venues including hotels on the Strip and convention centers. The company is introducing new features including distinctive identification signals and Bluetooth audio streaming to enhance the user experience.Read more →
TechCrunch...Arm is releasing the first in-house chip in its 35-year historyArm Holdings is manufacturing its own chips for the first time in 36 years, launching the Arm AGI CPU for AI data center inference in partnership with Meta. This marks a historic shift from their licensing-only business model, as the company now directly competes with former partners like Nvidia and Apple. The CPU addresses critical infrastructure demands for managing distributed AI systems at scale.Read more →
Gizmodo...Too Many Typos? Update Your iPhone to iOS 26.4 ASAP to Fix Its Broken KeyboardApple released iOS 26.4 with a keyboard accuracy improvement fix addressing long-standing issues with typos and input lag that have affected iPhone users. The update reduces lag between letter taps when typing quickly and improves autocorrect accuracy. Early testing indicates the fix successfully resolves the keyboard problems documented in previous iOS versions.Read more →
CNET...Spotify's New SongDNA Feature Tells You How a Song Was MadeSpotify has launched SongDNA, a feature showing all creators involved in a song including producers, engineers, and samples used. This helps fans discover music through artist connections and gives recognition to the often-overlooked collaborators behind popular tracks.Read more →
Gizmodo...Finally, Some Good News in the Fight Against Lyme DiseasePfizer and Valneva's Lyme disease vaccine candidate PF-07307405 demonstrated over 70% efficacy in preventing Lyme infection in a Phase III trial of nearly 10,000 participants across North America and Europe. The vaccine works by training the body to produce antibodies that eliminate bacteria within ticks before transmission. The companies plan to submit the vaccine for FDA approval, potentially providing significant protection against a disease that is becoming increasingly common.Read more →
Gizmodo...Holy Crap, the ‘Spider-Man: Brand New Day’ Trailer Has Been Viewed a Billion TimesSpider-Man: Brand New Day's trailer has become the first film trailer to reach one billion views, achieving this milestone in just four days with 1.1 billion total views. The trailer also set a new record for most-viewed trailer in a 24-hour period with 718.6 million views, surpassing previous records held by Deadpool & Wolverine and Grand Theft Auto VI. The unprecedented viewership indicates strong audience anticipation and suggests significant box office potential for the film's July 31 release.Read more →
Gizmodo...That McDonald’s Robot Video Isn’t What It Looks LikeA viral video falsely suggested McDonald's was deploying humanoid robots to replace workers, but the company clarified the robots were only a temporary display at a Shanghai Science and Technology Museum location from March 14-17 with no operational function. The incident highlights growing interest in restaurant automation as robotics companies like Figure continue developing advanced robotic systems.Read more →
TechCrunch...OpenAI’s plans to make ChatGPT more like Amazon aren’t going so wellOpenAI is scaling back its Instant Checkout feature in ChatGPT after users showed minimal interest in making direct purchases through the chatbot. The company is pivoting to focus on product discovery and comparison capabilities, allowing merchants to handle their own checkout experiences while ChatGPT serves as a research and research tool for consumers.Read more →
Engadget...AccuWeather is now available inside ChatGPTAccuWeather has launched a ChatGPT app that integrates weather data directly into the ChatGPT interface, eliminating the need to switch between applications. Users can query weather conditions using natural language questions, with access to features like MinuteCast and RealFeel metrics. This integration streamlines weather forecasting for those already using ChatGPT for other tasks.Read more →
Engadget...Splitgate's 1047 Games is starting work on a Titanfall-style movement shooter1047 Games announced a new movement-based shooter in development, drawing inspiration from Titanfall and Black Ops 3. The project is in early stages with playtesting signups available, though a full release timeline remains distant as the studio prioritizes Splitgate: Arena Reloaded's ongoing development.Read more →
The Verge...Apple launches iOS 26.4 with AI playlists, purchase sharing, and moreApple Music now features AI-powered playlist generation that allows users to create custom playlists by describing their desired music in natural language. This capability streamlines the playlist creation process and provides users with personalized music curation based on simple text descriptions.Read more →
TechCrunch...Google TV’s new Gemini features keep fans updated on sports teams and moreGoogle unveiled three Gemini-powered features for Google TV, including AI-powered visual responses for live scores and video tutorials, deep dives into complex topics with narrated visual explanations, and sports briefs summarizing key game moments. These additions enhance the streaming experience by providing more interactive and contextual information directly within the TV interface, with rollout beginning in the U.S. and Canada.Read more →
Gizmodo...Tether, the World’s Biggest Stablecoin, Is Finally Getting Its First Full AuditTether has announced its first comprehensive audit by a Big Four accounting firm following decades of skepticism over whether its $184 billion USDT stablecoin is fully reserve-backed. The audit will examine the company's digital assets, traditional holdings, and tokenized liabilities as part of a broader transparency initiative addressing regulatory compliance and sanctions evasion concerns. This represents a significant milestone for the crypto industry, as Tether's stability is critical infrastructure that many rely on daily.Read more →
Gizmodo...The Moon Has Far Less Water Than Previously Thought, Study SuggestsRecent imaging from NASA's ShadowCam found no detectable water ice in the Moon's permanently shadowed regions, challenging assumptions about abundant lunar water reserves critical to NASA's planned sustainable base. This discovery complicates lunar resource plans, though water may still exist at lower concentrations below current detection thresholds.Read more →
TechCrunch...OpenAI adds open source tools to help developers build for teen safetyOpenAI released open-source safety prompts and policies to help developers create AI applications safer for teenagers, addressing concerns around graphic violence, sexual content, harmful behaviors, and age-restricted services. The prompts are designed to be compatible with various AI models and can be adapted over time, providing developers with a standardized foundation for implementing teen-focused safety measures. The initiative builds on OpenAI's previous efforts including parental controls and Model Spec guidelines.Read more →
TechCrunch...Talat’s AI meeting notes stay on your machine, not in the cloudTalat is a privacy-focused Mac app that performs real-time meeting transcription and summarization entirely on local hardware without cloud data sharing. Created by developer Nick Payne, the app offers a one-time purchase model ($49 pre-release, $99 at 1.0) as an alternative to subscription-based competitors like Granola. It leverages Apple's Neural Engine and allows users to configure their own language models for enhanced flexibility and control over their data.Read more →
The Verge...The Lego Game Boy makes for a great gift, and it’s $10 off todayKohl's is currently offering the lowest price available for Lego's 421-piece Game Boy set, a brick recreation of Nintendo's iconic handheld console. This deal appeals to gaming enthusiasts and Lego collectors interested in retro gaming memorabilia.Read more →
Gizmodo...The Next ‘Gundam’ Movie Is Finally Coming StatesideThe Sorcery of Nymph Circe, the next Gundam film in the Hathaway's Flash series, will finally release in U.S. theaters on May 15, nearly four months after its January 30 Japanese debut. The film continues the Universal Century storyline 12 years after Char's Counterattack, following protagonist Hathaway Noa's revolutionary movement against the Earth Federation as leader of the Mafty terrorist group. The release features a Guns N' Roses collaboration with their classic track as the end credits theme, alongside SZA's opening theme.Read more →
Gizmodo...Peter Thiel’s Cowgorithm-Powered Cattle Collar Company Raises $220 MillionPeter Thiel's Founders Fund led a $220 million funding round for Halter, valuing the AI-powered livestock monitoring company at $2 billion, making it the largest venture capital raise by a New Zealand-founded company. Halter manufactures GPS-enabled, solar-powered collars that enable virtual fencing, health monitoring, and breeding cycle tracking on farms. The company is expanding from New Zealand into Australia and the US while operating on a subscription model charging $5-8 per cow monthly.Read more →
CNET...Apple Confirms It's Bringing Ads to Maps as Part of New Apple Business PlatformApple is launching Apple Business, a new advertising platform launching April 14 that enables businesses to purchase targeted ads across Maps, Mail, Wallet, and Siri, with Maps ads rolling out in the US and Canada this summer. The advertising system works similarly to Google Maps, allowing brands to purchase slots tied to search results. This expansion supports Apple's growing services business, which now generates over $100 billion annually.Read more →
Engadget...Three new Gemini features come to Google TVGoogle has announced three new Gemini-powered features for Google TV that enhance viewing with interactive content, including richer visual results for queries, customizable deep dives into topics of interest, and narrated sports briefs. These features aim to transform passive television watching into meaningful, interactive experiences by integrating AI-driven search and learning capabilities directly into the TV interface. The features are rolling out in phases across the US and Canada, with broader international expansion planned throughout 2026.Read more →
Engadget...Apple confirms ads are coming to Apple MapsApple is expanding its advertising platform into Apple Maps, enabling businesses to display ads in search results and a new Suggested Places feature launching this summer in the US and Canada. This initiative represents Apple's continued growth in its $100 billion+ Services business, which already includes advertising in the App Store and Apple News. The company maintains its privacy commitments by keeping ad interactions separate from user Apple Accounts and ensuring personal data remains on-device.Read more →
TechCrunch...BRK Capital raises $14.5M (so far) to invest in Black foundersBRK Capital's Fund II has closed $20 million CAD toward its $50 million CAD target, backing high-growth technology companies founded by Black entrepreneurs in Canada and select international markets. The fund targets check sizes between $250,000 to $1.5 million and frames performance-driven investing in overlooked founder markets as an arbitrage opportunity. With Fund I outperforming 75% of comparable funds, BRK Capital aims to complete Fund II's final close in December and deploy capital across 25 companies.Read more →
TechCrunch...BKR Capital raises $14.5M (so far) to invest in Black foundersCanada's BKR Capital closed $20 million CAD for its Fund II, targeting high-growth technology companies led by Black founders focused on future of work and global connectivity. The firm positions diverse founder investment as a financial arbitrage opportunity, arguing that overlooked markets and diverse experiences unlock outsized venture returns. Fund I has already outperformed 75% of comparable funds launched at the same time.Read more →
CNET...I Wish More Movies Made 3D-Printable Models Like Project Hail MaryProject Hail Mary released a downloadable 3D-printable spaceman model, engaging the maker community and demonstrating effective movie marketing. The availability of VFX-designed models as 3D-printable files appeals directly to creators and amplifies the film's promotional reach. This strategy's success suggests more studios should consider sharing digital assets with enthusiast audiences.Read more →
Gizmodo...Who Was the Worst Targaryen to Rule Westeros?Unsurprisingly, there are a lot of candidates among the House of the Dragon.Read more →
Engadget...For All Mankind is returning for a sixth and final seasonApple TV's sci-fi series For All Mankind has been renewed for a sixth and final season, with creators planning it as the natural conclusion to their story rather than a cancellation. The upcoming season will bring the alt-history narrative from the 2010s into the modern day, allowing the show to reach its intended endpoint.Read more →
CNET...I 'Vibe Designed' a Website in Minutes Using Google Labs' Stitch ToolGoogle announced Stitch, an AI-powered design platform that enables users to create mobile apps and websites using natural language descriptions without traditional design expertise. The platform uses Gemini models, supports text and voice input, and provides real-time design critiques with collaborative editing capabilities. While still in beta, Stitch demonstrates significant potential to streamline UI/UX development and democratize design creation for non-designers.Read more →
TechCrunch...Crunchyroll confirms data breach after hacker claims unauthorized accessCrunchyroll confirmed a data breach involving customer service ticket information after a third-party vendor handling its support operations was compromised. A threat actor gained unauthorized access to the company's Zendesk support system, internal communications, and customer support data through a compromised Telus Digital employee until early 2025. The anime streaming service serving 15 million subscribers worldwide is investigating the incident and has not identified evidence of ongoing unauthorized access.Read more →
TechCrunch...Doss raises $55M for AI inventory management that plugs into ERPDoss, an AI-native inventory management startup, raised $55 million in Series B funding led by Madrona and Premji Invest. Rather than competing with AI ERP startups, Doss pivoted to provide specialized AI-powered inventory and supply chain management that integrates with existing accounting systems. The funding round reflects investor confidence in specialized, interoperable AI enterprise solutions for mid-market consumer brands.Read more →
The Verge...The Apple Watch SE 3 is even easier to recommend at $50 offThe Apple Watch SE 3 is on sale at record-low prices while offering premium features like always-on displays, S10 chip, gesture controls, and 5G connectivity that were previously exclusive to higher-end models. This positions the SE as an exceptional value option for consumers seeking essential smartwatch functionality without the cost of premium variants.Read more →
Engadget...iOS 26.4 is here, with Playlist Playground and new emojiiOS and iPadOS 26.4 introduces Playlist Playground, an AI-powered music generator that creates song lists based on user prompts for mood, activities, or feelings, similar to Spotify's 2024 offering. The update also adds an ambient music widget, Bandsintown concert integration for concert listings, and new emoji characters including Bigfoot and fight cloud.Read more →
The Verge...ChatGPT and Gemini are fighting to be the AI bot that sells you stuffGoogle and OpenAI are expanding AI-assisted shopping capabilities, with Google partnering with Gap Inc to enable direct purchases through Gemini and OpenAI enhancing product comparison features in ChatGPT. While retailers view AI shopping as a key growth opportunity, adoption concerns persist—OpenAI abandoned its direct checkout feature after disappointing sales performance. These developments reflect the broader trend of retailers leveraging AI assistants as new discovery and purchase channels beyond traditional search.Read more →
Engadget...Bandsintown integration for concerts is coming to Apple MusicApple Music now integrates Bandsintown's concert listings in iOS 26.4, enabling users to discover and purchase tickets for live performances directly within the app. Artists can automatically display tour dates from their Bandsintown dashboard, with updates appearing within 48 hours. The new Concerts tab in Search allows filtering by genre, location, and date, plus push notifications for followed artists' upcoming shows.Read more →
Gizmodo...Amazon Says Its Cloud Facilities Were Disrupted Again Due to War in IranAWS experienced its second data center disruption in the Middle East this month due to drone strikes from Iranian forces, affecting facilities in Bahrain and the United Arab Emirates with structural and power damage. The attacks mark the first time American tech infrastructure has been militarily targeted, with Iranian forces confirming intentional targeting and naming additional companies including Microsoft, Google, and Oracle as legitimate targets. The escalating regional conflict has prompted AWS to advise customers to migrate workloads and created new operational risks for tech infrastructure in the region.Read more →
The Verge...Welp, I bought an iPhone againA tech journalist tested multiple Android flagship phones over several months to evaluate switching from iPhone but ultimately purchased an iPhone 17, finding that despite Android's superior operating system and features, iOS's significantly better app ecosystem remains the decisive factor. The author concluded that smartphones function primarily as app machines, and iPhone's superior app quality and availability outweigh Android's software advantages.Read more →
TechCrunch...Apple Music partners with Ticketmaster to power its concert discovery featureApple Music partnered with Ticketmaster to integrate concert discovery, enabling users to find and purchase live music event tickets based on their listening habits. The integration features a dedicated Concerts Tab, artist pages showing tour information, and personalized push notifications for nearby concerts. This expansion positions Apple Music to compete more directly with Spotify's SeatGeek partnership for ticket discovery.Read more →
Gizmodo...This Chip Could Fix the Fukushima Plant’s Wi-Fi ProblemResearchers have developed a wireless receiver chip that withstands 500 kilograys of radiation, 1,000 times more resistant than conventional semiconductors. The breakthrough enables wireless monitoring systems for nuclear plant decommissioning operations, particularly at Fukushima, replacing vulnerable cable infrastructure and improving safety for remote robotic systems.Read more →
Engadget...Pokémon Champions will hit Switch and Switch 2 on April 8Pokémon Champions launches April 8 on Nintendo Switch and Switch 2, with a mobile version offering cross-play support. The competitive turn-based battle game features team-building, ranked modes, and a victory point progression system that unlocks character customization and permanent Pokémon recruitment.Read more →
CNET...iPhone Air vs. Galaxy S25 Edge: Thin Phone BattleThe iPhone Air ($999) and Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge ($1,100) are ultra-thin smartphones that measure 5.6-5.8mm thick, offering sleek designs at the cost of reduced battery capacity and limited camera features compared to standard models. Both phones deliver all-day battery life with latest processors and adaptive 120Hz displays, but require nightly charging due to their slimmer battery compartments. The choice between them hinges on whether consumers prioritize design aesthetics over comprehensive camera systems and extended battery endurance.Read more →
Gizmodo...5 Questions We Need Answered in the ‘Paradise’ Season 2 FinaleParadise season two's finale approaches with one episode remaining before the series continues into a third and final season. The article explores major unresolved mysteries including the identity of 'Alex,' which may involve time travel or multiverse elements, and suggests Sinatra has found a way to alter her past and possibly resurrect her son Dylan as the character Link. The bunker simultaneously faces critical system collapse while these revelations unfold.Read more →
The Verge...A BlackBerry you might actually want just landed on KickstarterThe Titan 2 Elite combines a physical BlackBerry-inspired keyboard with the modern Android 16 operating system. This device bridges the gap between nostalgic hardware enthusiasts and contemporary mobile functionality, appealing to users who prefer physical keyboards over touchscreen-only devices.Read more →
Engadget...The Punisher's one-off TV special hits Disney+ on May 12Disney+ is releasing a standalone Punisher special titled 'One Last Kill' on May 12, co-written by and starring Jon Bernthal. This marks the character's first theatrical film appearance and will lead into Daredevil: Born Again season two, expanding the Punisher's presence in the Marvel Universe.Read more →
Gizmodo...Elon Musk Will Have to Face the Music in Lawsuit Over DOGE’s Government OverreachA federal judge ruled that a lawsuit against the Department of Government Efficiency and Elon Musk can proceed, allowing claims that the agency exceeded its legal authority and that Musk violated constitutional requirements for Senate confirmation to move forward. The lawsuit, brought by nonprofits and states, alleges DOGE unlawfully cut federal funding, dismantled agencies, and fired workers. The ruling sets up further legal scrutiny of DOGE's operations as Musk and his companies face mounting legal challenges.Read more →
CNET...Free MLB.TV on T-Mobile Offer Returns for Opening Day, but You Have to Act SoonT-Mobile is offering eligible customers a free one-year MLB.TV subscription valued at $150 for out-of-market games during the 2026 baseball season, with claims available through the T-Life app from March 24-31. The season will debut an automated ball strike system powered by T-Mobile's 5G network, allowing players to challenge home-plate calls.Read more →
CNET...The iPhone 17 Pro Phones Far Outnumber Their Siblings, but the iPhone Air Has FansApple's iPhone Air achieved triple the adoption of its predecessor (6.8% vs 2.9% of iPhone 17 users), demonstrating strong consumer preference for thin design. However, Pro models still dominate at 86% of iPhone 17 sales, with adoption varying significantly by region. Apple's latest C1X modem has achieved performance parity with Qualcomm's X80 chip, marking a critical maturity point for in-house silicon.Read more →
Engadget...There's a new Payday game, this time in VRPayday: Aces High brings the popular heist franchise to VR, launching on Meta Quest and SteamVR later this year with four-player co-op gameplay. The game maintains the series' core heist mechanics where players plan and execute elaborate robberies while filling specialized roles such as planner, brawler, gadget specialist, and assassin. Developed by Fast Travel Games, the VR version features an expanding arsenal of weapons and gadgets with standard progression through successful heists.Read more →
Gizmodo...How Many Times Can You Clone a Clone? New Research Offers a Surprising AnswerJapanese researchers found a hard limit to serial cloning: successive generations of cloned mice accumulate genetic mutations that prevent viability beyond approximately the 58th generation, despite using trichostatin A to suppress mutations. Over 1,200 clones were successfully produced from a single donor, but structural variants accumulated faster than the compound could suppress. Sexual reproduction between late-generation clones can help filter out harmful mutations, suggesting a potential approach to extend the viability of future clones.Read more →
The Verge...Life is Strange: Reunion is a full-circle moment for its starsLife is Strange: Reunion reunites players with beloved characters Max and Chloe, reversing the original game's emotionally significant ending choice. The game approaches this return with care and respect for the series' emotional legacy, featuring authentic performances from returning voice actors that resonate with their personal experiences.Read more →
The Verge...Google’s Android Automotive is moving from the dashboard to the ‘brain’ of the carAndroid Automotive OS provides an open architecture for the non-safety critical components of software-defined vehicles, enabling manufacturers to leverage an established platform for infotainment and connectivity systems. This approach separates safety-critical functions from other vehicle systems, allowing greater flexibility and faster innovation in connected vehicle technology.Read more →
TechCrunch...Meet the former Apple designer building a new AI interface at HarkHark, a secretive AI lab founded by Brett Adcock, is developing integrated AI models and hardware designed to deliver seamless personal intelligence that listens, sees, and interacts in real time with persistent memory. The company aims to embed intelligence as a foundational layer across devices and interfaces rather than treating AI as an add-on feature. Led by former Apple designer Abidur Chowdhury and backed by $100 million in personal funding, the startup plans to release its first AI models this summer.Read more →
The Verge...Apple Maps will introduce ads this summerApple will soon allow businesses to buy advertisements in its Maps app. In an announcement on Tuesday, Apple says ads may appear at the top of your search results in Maps, as well as in a new "Suggested Places" list. They will arrive in-app in the US and Canada this summer. The company describes its […]Read more →
Engadget...Epic is laying off more than 1,000 workers, citing a downturn in Fortnite engagementEpic Games is laying off over 1000 employees due to declining Fortnite engagement and industry-wide challenges including slower growth and reduced consumer spending. The company is implementing cost cuts totaling over $500 million while refocusing on delivering consistent Fortnite seasonal content and accelerating developer tools for Unreal Engine 6.Read more →
Gizmodo...Oura’s Next Smart Ring Just Leaked a Year EarlyThe Oura Ring 5, expected to launch next year, will feature a subtle design refresh with new color options including a bronze-toned 'deep rose' and a rounder silhouette with a sharper curve. The company's recent acquisition of gesture recognition startup Doublepoint suggests the Ring 5 may introduce gesture control capabilities to the wearable, though battery life is expected to remain similar to the Ring 4.Read more →
CNET...Crunchyroll Responds to Claims of Data BreachCrunchyroll responded to cyberattack claims after alleged malware infiltration through third-party vendor Telus in mid-March, with unconfirmed reports suggesting exposure of customer billing information, email addresses, and IP addresses. The company stated that affected data is primarily limited to customer service ticket information and no evidence of ongoing unauthorized system access has been identified. Users are advised to reset passwords and enable two-factor authentication as a precaution.Read more →
Gizmodo...FDA Recalls Nearly 90,000 Children’s Ibuprofen Bottles Over ‘Gel-Like Mass’The FDA has recalled approximately 90,000 bottles of Taro Pharmaceuticals' Children's Ibuprofen Oral Suspension due to foreign contaminants found in the product manufactured by Strides Pharma Inc. in India. The Class II recall affects two specific lots with expiration dates of January 31, 2027, distributed nationwide for children ages 2-11. Parents should verify their products' lot codes (7261973A and 7261974A) to ensure they are not affected by this safety concern.Read more →
Gizmodo...‘Avatar: Fire and Ash’ Is Finally Coming Home Next WeekAvatar: Fire and Ash is releasing digitally on March 31 and physically in May, bringing the third installment to home viewers. The release includes over 3 hours of bonus content featuring behind-the-scenes documentaries, production insights, Na'vi language tutorials, and a tribute to late producer Jon Landau.Read more →
TechCrunch...Epic Games cuts 1,000 jobs, says Fortnite engagement is downEpic Games is laying off 1,000 employees due to declining Fortnite engagement and unsustainable spending, with CEO Tim Sweeney citing the need for major cost reductions totaling over $500 million. The company has increased in-game currency prices and will provide four months of severance with extended healthcare coverage to stabilize its financial position amid challenging market conditions.Read more →
The Verge...Pokémon Champions is coming to the Nintendo Switch on April 8thNintendo and The Pokémon Company announced that Pokémon Champions will launch on Nintendo Switch on April 8th, with a mobile version coming later in 2026. The game will become the primary platform for competitive Pokémon play, allowing players to battle with random pokémon or bring their own from other games like Scarlet and Violet through the Pokémon Home app. Switch 2 owners will receive a free graphical update on launch date.Read more →
TechCrunch...Flighty’s new update gives you real-time alerts about airport disturbancesFlighty has launched Airport Intelligence, a new feature providing real-time alerts about airport disruptions across 14,000 airports worldwide by translating complex aviation data into simple language for users. The feature leverages the same data used by pilots and airlines, including weather reports and safety advisories, to help travelers understand potential impacts on their journeys. The release addresses growing airport chaos caused by geopolitical tensions and operational shortages.Read more →
CNET...iPhone Owners, Do This Now to Secure Your Phone From 'DarkSword' HackersDarkSword is a sophisticated hacking toolkit that targets iPhone users through infected websites, enabling attackers to access sensitive data including messages, iCloud content, and crypto wallets without requiring phishing or suspicious app downloads. Originally targeting specific regions, the toolkit has been made publicly available on GitHub, significantly expanding the threat. Apple has released security updates in iOS 26.3 and later to address the vulnerability, but approximately one-fifth of iPhone users running older iOS versions remain at risk.Read more →
Engadget...Samsung's cheaper Mini LED TVs are now on saleSamsung introduced affordable Mini LED TVs starting at $400, featuring 10-bit panels and high refresh rates, while also launching premium Quantum Mini LED models with enhanced brightness and color accuracy. This expansion reflects the continued trend of Mini LED technology becoming more accessible and improving in quality across all price segments.Read more →
TechCrunch...Ads are coming to Apple Maps, as Apple expands its business offeringsApple is launching location-based advertising on Apple Maps starting summer 2026, allowing businesses with physical locations to target customers in the U.S. and Canada. The move expands Apple's advertising business while maintaining user privacy, with ads appearing once in search results and using auction-based pricing. This announcement coincides with Apple's consolidation of its business tools into a unified Apple Business offering that includes email, calendar, employee directory, and device management services.Read more →
The Verge...Meta’s reckoning over kids safety is in the hands of two juriesTwo juries are deliberating landmark cases against Meta—one alleging the company failed to protect children from predators on its platforms, another examining whether its products were designed to be addictive. Verdicts could exceed $2 billion in damages and potentially establish legal precedent for holding tech platforms accountable for child safety failures.Read more →
The Verge...Fortnite maker Epic is laying off over 1,000 workersEpic Games CEO Tim Sweeney announced layoffs due to declining Fortnite engagement, indicating the company is restructuring in response to reduced player activity. The job cuts reflect challenges in maintaining user interest in the competitive battle royale market. This decision highlights the pressure major gaming studios face to adapt as engagement metrics fluctuate across titles.Read more →
TechCrunch...Roku’s $3 Howdy subscription service launches on Prime VideoRoku has expanded its Howdy ad-free streaming service to Amazon Prime Video, marking its first availability outside the Roku ecosystem. The $3 service offers nearly 10,000 hours of content from major studios including Disney, Sony Pictures, Warner Bros. Discovery, and Lionsgate. This expansion broadens access to the complementary streaming option while leveraging Amazon's distribution platform to reach broader audiences.Read more →
The Verge...John Deere, Garmin, and Philips may have undermined military right to repairCompanies spent nearly $2 million lobbying on the annual defense policy bill, specifically targeting a right-to-repair provision. This reflects significant corporate effort to influence policy affecting device repair standards and consumer access to repairs. The lobbying campaign highlights ongoing tensions between manufacturers and right-to-repair advocates.Read more →
TechCrunch...FCC bans import of new consumer routers made overseas, citing security risksThe Federal Communications Commission has ordered a ban on importing new foreign-manufactured consumer routers, citing cybersecurity threats from Chinese hacking groups that have exploited vulnerabilities in these devices. The ban affects approximately 60% of the consumer router market, though existing routers remain unaffected and new devices may be exempted with approval from Defense or Homeland Security. The FCC stated the action is necessary to protect U.S. networks from intrusions, distributed denial-of-service attacks, and surveillance exploited through compromised router infrastructure.Read more →
Gizmodo...The Punisher’s Standalone Special Is Coming Very SoonMarvel Studios announced that Jon Bernthal's Punisher standalone special, titled 'One Last Kill,' will premiere on Disney+ on May 12, positioned as a bridge between Daredevil: Born Again season 2 and the upcoming Spider-Man: Brand New Day film. The special is set to feature the violent action Bernthal has promised, utilizing the same 'special presentation' format as Werewolf By Night. This timing strategically places the mature-content special between Marvel's television and film properties, showcasing the studio's expanded content strategy.Read more →
Gizmodo...Physicists Stretch, Blur, and Reverse Time’s Arrow in Wild Quantum EnginePhysicists at Los Alamos National Laboratory have developed a new quantum control protocol that can manipulate how the arrow of time emerges in quantum systems through measurement engines and feedback mechanisms. The protocol enables researchers to reshape quantum system evolution and potentially extract energy for applications like quantum batteries and quantum algorithms. While the apparatus remains theoretical, researchers plan to experimentally demonstrate the protocol using superconducting qubits to validate practical applications.Read more →
Gizmodo...Asus ROG’s Massive Swift OLED Gaming Monitor Epitomizes Excess in the Best WayThe Asus ROG Swift OLED (PG32UCDM) is a $1,300 gaming monitor featuring a proprietary BlackShield film designed to improve black levels in bright ambient conditions, but this premium price is difficult to justify as cheaper competitors like the Alienware AW2725Q ($650) deliver similar visual performance. While the 32-inch QD-OLED display offers excellent picture quality with 4K resolution, 240Hz refresh rate, and vibrant colors, the gamer-focused design with RGB lighting and large tripod stand does not provide sufficient practical advantages to warrant the significant cost premium.Read more →
CNET...The Best Cordless Vacuum I've Tested Is on Sale for Just $153The Eureka ReactiSense 440 cordless vacuum delivers premium cleaning performance at an unprecedented price point, scoring 97.53% on hardwood sand pickup and up to 98.53% on carpet while featuring intelligent suction adjustment and anti-tangle technology. Now on sale for $153, it undercuts premium competitors by half the price while achieving performance that surpasses more expensive models like the Shark Stratos.Read more →
CNET...Apple's Foldable iPhone Design and Timeline Come Into Focus as Leaks MountLeaked CAD renderings reveal Apple's foldable iPhone design as a book-style device with a wider, tablet-like aspect ratio when unfolded, matching previous leaks. The device is expected to be announced in September alongside the iPhone 18, though production may not begin until December due to supply chain constraints. Samsung Display has been selected as the exclusive supplier for the foldable OLED panels, with mass production expected to start in mid-2026.Read more →
CNET...Amnezia Has a New VPN Protocol to Stay a Step Ahead of CensorsAmnezia released AmneziaWG 2.0, a new VPN protocol designed to help users bypass government internet censorship through advanced obfuscation techniques. The protocol mimics legitimate network traffic to evade deep packet inspection, allowing users in heavily censored regions like Iran and Russia to access restricted content while remaining undetected.Read more →
Gizmodo...‘For All Mankind’ Will Return for a Sixth and Final SeasonApple TV has greenlit a sixth and final season for For All Mankind, following the launch of season five this week. The series will conclude by reaching the present-day 2020s, fulfilling the creators' original vision of bridging their alternate-history timeline to the present day.Read more →
Engadget...Akai just released a portable and relatively budget-friendly MPC samplerAkai released the MPC Sample, an affordable $400 portable sampler and groovebox featuring 16 velocity-sensitive pads, 32-voice polyphony, and comprehensive sampling and effects capabilities. The device delivers professional music production features in a compact, accessible form factor, making hardware-based beat production more widely available to producers.Read more →
The Verge...The MPC Sample is my new favorite portable beat makerThe Akai MPC Sample is a portable, affordable beat-making device that returns the MPC line to its sampling roots while offering modern features like time-stretching and multiple effect types. Priced at $399, it delivers an intuitive workflow and excellent velocity-sensitive pads, making it ideal for beginner producers, though it faces significant competition from similar devices in the portable music gear market.Read more →
The Verge...For All Mankind will end with season 6An Apple TV series has been renewed for an additional season, with the announcement arriving prior to the season 5 premiere. The early renewal demonstrates continued confidence in the show's viewership and impact on the streaming platform.Read more →
The Verge...Anthropic’s Claude Code and Cowork can control your computerAnthropic has updated Claude to perform tasks in its Code and Cowork AI tools autonomously by using your computer for you. The new feature can be used to automatically open files, use web browsers and apps, and run dev tools "with no setup required," even when you're away from your computer, according to Anthropic's announcement. […]Read more →
CNET...Spring Cleaning Your Tech: How to Recycle Old Computers for FreeMajor retailers like Best Buy and Staples offer free electronics recycling programs where you can drop off old computers, printers, and other tech devices without cost. Before recycling, it's essential to perform a proper data wipe to protect personal information. These recycling initiatives help keep electronic waste out of landfills while freeing up storage space in your home.Read more →
The Verge...Ayaneo says selling its Windows gaming handheld 'is no longer sustainable'Ayaneo is suspending preorders for its $1,999 Next 2 gaming handheld due to the skyrocketing price of digital storage. In a post on Monday, Ayaneo says the overall cost to build its Windows handheld now nearly doubles the price it originally set, making it "unsustainable" to continue selling. "Even before the launch of NEXT 2, […]Read more →
Engadget...Ultrahuman opens US pre-orders for Ring ProFollowing resolution of a patent dispute with rival Oura, Ultrahuman's Ring Pro smart ring is now available for pre-orders in the US after being previously banned from the market. The device offers up to 15 days of battery life and is launching with significant early-bird discounts. This regulatory clearance allows Ultrahuman to compete in the increasingly patent-contentious smart ring sector.Read more →
Gizmodo...Updates From ‘The Mandalorian and Grogu’, and MoreThis entertainment news roundup covers updates on multiple upcoming film and television projects, including Jennifer's Body 2 in development, Fallout season 3 expanding to Colorado, and Daredevil: Born Again season 2 premiere details. Major streaming platforms and studios continue investing in sequels, reboots, and expansions of established franchises to drive subscriber engagement.Read more →
The Verge...Nuki adds Apple Home Key to its smart lockThe Keypad NFC 2 smart lock now supports the Aliro digital key standard, enabling tap-to-unlock functionality using Apple and Samsung digital keys. This support brings modern digital key authentication to retrofit locks, expanding compatibility with major smartphone platforms.Read more →
TechCrunch...Mirage raises $75M to continue building models for its AI video editing app CaptionsMirage, formerly known as Captions, has secured $75 million in growth financing to expand its AI-powered video creation platform. The company has repositioned itself as an AI lab developing specialized models for video editing, pacing, and accent-preserving audio generation, while transitioning to a freemium model to compete with CapCut and Meta's Edits. The funding will support expansion into high-growth Asian markets and integration of its web-based marketing suite with its mobile editing platform to target small businesses.Read more →
The Verge...The Hisense U7SG is a great midrange TV you shouldn’t buy yetThe Hisense U7SG is a high-performance midrange mini-LED TV that excels in brightness (reaching 3,000 nits), anti-reflection screen quality, and gaming capabilities (4K/165Hz with FreeSync support). It offers comprehensive HDR support and runs Google TV, making it an excellent choice for bright rooms. However, the review recommends waiting a few months for price drops, as Hisense TVs typically see significant discounts shortly after launch.Read more →
The Verge...Zoox is bringing its robotaxis to Austin and MiamiZoox is stretching out its legs. The Amazon-owned robotaxi today announced that it's gearing up to expand its service in San Francisco and Las Vegas, while also eyeing two additional cities - Austin and Miami - for future service. Zoox, which is one of the few companies to use a purpose-built autonomous vehicle without traditional […]Read more →
TechCrunch...TikTok ads are about to get a tad more disruptiveTikTok has introduced new premium advertising formats including Logo Takeover, Prime Time, and Top Reach designed to maximize brand visibility and capture user attention from the moment they open the app. These formats enable brands to co-brand with TikTok, run sequential ads during high-activity periods, and reach maximum daily audiences through prime placements. The platform has also expanded its Pulse suite with Mentions and Tastemakers tools to align advertisements with cultural moments and influential creators.Read more →
TechCrunch...Spotify’s new SongDNA feature maps how your favorite songs are connectedSpotify has launched SongDNA, a new feature for Premium subscribers that enables deeper exploration of music by showing connections between artists, samples, covers, and collaborators. The feature, built on data from the acquired WhoSampled database, aims to enhance music discovery while providing greater recognition to songwriters, producers, and other contributors. The rollout is currently in beta on iOS and Android, with full availability expected by April 2026.Read more →
TechCrunch...Snapchat’s new ‘AI Clips’ Lens format turns photos into five-second videosSnapchat introduced AI Clips, an AI-powered Lens format that converts single photos into five-second videos created by Snapchat developers. The feature is available to Lens+ subscribers ($8.99/month) and allows creators to monetize their Lenses through Snapchat's developer payout program. This distinguishes Snapchat by combining closed-prompt AI video generation with native distribution and monetization capabilities.Read more →
TechCrunch...Zoox brings its robotaxis to Austin and MiamiZoox is expanding its autonomous robotaxi services to Austin and Miami while scaling existing operations in San Francisco and Las Vegas. The company is pursuing federal safety exemptions from the NHTSA to transition from free rides to paid commercial services, with a partnership with Uber in Las Vegas pending regulatory approval. These developments build on nearly two million autonomous miles driven and over 350,000 riders served to date.Read more →
TechCrunch...Cauldron Ferm has turned microbes into nonstop assembly linesCauldron Ferm raised $13.25 million in Series A2 funding to scale its continuous fermentation technology, which produces proteins like whey from microbes more efficiently and cost-effectively than traditional batch processes. The company's hyper fermentation approach optimizes microbial productivity and can integrate with existing fermentation infrastructure, with whey protein immediately applicable to current supply chains. With potential to produce 60 percent of global economic inputs through biology, the company plans to expand beyond proteins into other biologically-derived products.Read more →
TechCrunch...Pinterest launches a new feature to promote a PinPinterest launched 'Promote a Pin,' a simplified advertising feature that enables individuals and small businesses to boost content reach without designing complex campaigns. The feature leverages Pinterest's 619 million users and 80 billion monthly searches to connect businesses with high-intent audiences, using the company's Taste Graph system for targeted reach.Read more →
Engadget...Spotify's SongDNA can tell you all about the track you're listening toSpotify has launched SongDNA, a feature that reveals the creative teams, samples, and influences behind songs to provide transparency in music creation. This tool enables fans to discover new artists and understand how tracks connect through collaborators and musical lineage, while giving recognition to producers, writers, and all contributors involved in the creative process.Read more →
CNET...Zoox Expands Service and Brings Its Robotaxi to Two New CitiesZoox is expanding its autonomous ride-hailing service across multiple cities, more than doubling its service area in Las Vegas and quadrupling coverage in San Francisco, while beginning deployments in Miami and Austin. The Amazon-owned company has driven nearly 2 million autonomous miles and transported over 350,000 riders to date, positioning itself as a competitor to Waymo with its uniquely designed purpose-built robotaxis. The expansion marks a significant scaling effort as Zoox works toward commercial viability and regulatory approval for charging riders.Read more →
CNET...Ultrahuman, Oura's Biggest Rival, Returns to the US With Its New Ring ProUltrahuman has re-entered the US smart ring market with its new Ring Pro following resolution of a patent dispute with Oura, offering 15 days of battery life and no subscription fees for core health metrics. The company positions itself as a comprehensive health platform competitor with expanded offerings including glucose monitoring, AFib detection, and blood testing services beyond its wearable devices.Read more →
CNET...Everything You Need to Know About the New Firefox Browser VPNMozilla is launching a free VPN service integrated directly into Firefox browser, offering users 50GB of monthly data to mask their IP address and location. The service will initially roll out in the US, UK, France, and Germany with Firefox version 149. However, the free VPN only protects browser traffic through Firefox, limiting its effectiveness compared to standalone VPN solutions for protecting overall system privacy.Read more →
Engadget...The Morning After: WWDC 2026 is happening June 8thApple's Worldwide Developers Conference will take place June 8-12, with CEO Tim Cook delivering the keynote on June 8. The event will showcase new operating systems including iOS 27, macOS 27, and visionOS 27, with expected major upgrades to Apple Intelligence and a significant Siri overhaul.Read more →
Engadget...Snapchat users sent 'nearly' 2 trillion snaps in 2025Snapchat users generated close to 2 trillion snaps in 2025, averaging over 11 snaps per user daily, demonstrating robust engagement on the platform. This milestone, equating to 63,000 snaps per second, reflects the platform's continued ability to drive frequent user interactions and social connection despite past growth challenges.Read more →
CNET...I Only Listened to AI Music for a Week. It Was Terrible, but Not for the Reason You ThinkAn AI journalist spent a week listening exclusively to AI-generated music, finding that despite technological advances, AI songs lack the emotional depth and cultural significance of human-created music. The experiment highlights concerns about AI eroding human creativity as AI-generated content floods streaming platforms, with record labels already suing companies like Suno and Udio. The experience underscores how AI cannot replicate the personal memories and artistic individuality that define meaningful music consumption.Read more →
TechCrunch...Agile Robots becomes the latest robotics company to partner with Google DeepMindAgile Robots has partnered with Google DeepMind to integrate Gemini Robotics foundation models into its industrial robots across manufacturing, automotive, data centers, and logistics. The companies will collaborate to test and deploy autonomous solutions while robot-collected data improves the underlying AI models.Read more →
CNET...'Daredevil: Born Again' Season 2: When to Watch the Premiere on Disney PlusMarvel and Disney Plus are releasing Daredevil: Born Again season 2 this week, continuing the story where season 1 ended with Kingpin seizing control of New York City. Jessica Jones returns to join Matt Murdock in his battle against Wilson Fisk, delivering an intense showdown with action-heavy storytelling. The season premieres Tuesday at 9 p.m. ET on Disney Plus with remaining episodes rolling out weekly.Read more →
Gizmodo...The Live-Action ‘Moana’ Really Thought About the Maui Wig, Despite It Looking Like ThatDwayne Johnson underwent extensive prosthetic transformation for Disney's live-action Moana remake, requiring a 40-pound bodysuit and a specially engineered 7-pound wig that took approximately two and a half hours to apply daily. The production chose practical prosthetics over pure visual effects to maintain emotional authenticity and allow for genuine physical performance. The decision to use real prosthetics provided a more tactile and emotionally resonant result compared to alternative visual effects approaches.Read more →
The Verge...Nintendo cuts Switch 2 production amid weakening console salesNintendo will produce fewer Switch 2 units than it previously projected in response to weakening demand for the console in the US, Bloomberg reports. Four million units of Nintendo's flagship device are expected to be made this quarter instead of the six million it had originally planned, according to unnamed sources cited by the publication, […]Read more →
Gizmodo...The ‘Mandalorian and Grogu’ Hot Toys Figures Want You to Know Pedro Pascal Is Under That HelmetHot Toys has unveiled a line of premium collectible figures for the upcoming Mandalorian and Grogu movie, featuring highly detailed Din Djarin models with Pedro Pascal's likeness, Grogu figures, and an Anzellan droidsmith character. The figures, ranging from $240 to $375, are available for pre-order from Sideshow Collectibles with availability expected in mid-to-late 2026.Read more →
CNET...This Common Cooking Mistake Could Be Adding Microplastic to Your FoodReheating leftovers in plastic containers releases microplastics and harmful chemicals linked to serious health risks including infertility and cancer. Experts recommend using glass, ceramic, stainless steel, or aluminum containers instead, as most takeout containers are not heat-safe despite marketing claims. Stovetop or oven reheating also provides better food quality and safety than microwaving in plastic vessels.Read more →
CNET...You're Probably Using Too Much Detergent. An Expert Explains Why That's BadA laundry expert identifies seven common mistakes that damage clothing and reduce garment lifespan, including improper sorting, overusing detergent, using bleach, and ignoring care labels. Proper washing temperatures, machine maintenance, and following fabric care instructions can significantly extend clothing durability and preserve quality.Read more →
CNET...The Best Whitening Toothpaste of 2026, Recommended by DentistsCNET reviews the best whitening toothpastes based on dentist recommendations, with Colgate Optic White Pro Series featuring the strongest 5% hydrogen peroxide formula identified as the top pick. Different products are recommended for specific needs including sensitive teeth, daily use, and natural ingredients, with most experts advising against continuous long-term use to prevent enamel damage.Read more →
Gizmodo...Here Are Five Great Deals to Not Miss Dreame’s Spring Sale, Vacuums and Hair Dryers IncludedDreame's Spring Sale (March 25-31) features five innovative home cleaning products, including compact robot vacuum-mop combos, cordless vacuums, and a travel-ready hair dryer, with significant discounts. The product lineup demonstrates advanced engineering that solves key consumer frustrations like fitting under furniture and effective corner cleaning while maintaining premium performance at accessible price points.Read more →
CNET...Best Cheap Phone of 2026: You Don’t Need to Pay a Lot for Your Next PhoneCNET provides a comprehensive guide to affordable smartphones in 2026, featuring recommendations across various price points from budget options like the Samsung Galaxy A17 5G at $200 to mid-range choices like the Google Pixel 10A at $499. The article emphasizes key purchasing factors such as software support longevity, camera quality, and ecosystem compatibility, offering detailed comparisons to help consumers make informed decisions based on their specific needs and budget constraints.Read more →
CNET...Good Espresso Requires Precision. Here's How Much Coffee Goes in Every ShotA guide to perfecting home espresso demonstrates that proper technique and strategic equipment investments matter more than expensive machinery. Key practices include maintaining fine grind size, using a 1:2 coffee-to-water ratio, and properly tamping the puck with firm, even pressure to achieve quality shots with balanced flavor and mouthfeel.Read more →
CNET...vampirNetflix: 23 of the Best Fantasy TV Shows to Stream Right NowNetflix offers an extensive library of fantasy TV shows spanning multiple subgenres, including monster-hunting action, murder mysteries, and dystopian adventures. CNET has compiled a guide to help viewers navigate the platform's fantasy content and discover shows like The Witcher and other compelling options.Read more →
CNET...Want a Free Program to Replace Microsoft 365? Try This OneThe author switched from Microsoft 365 to LibreOffice, a free, open-source office suite, to reduce costs while maintaining core productivity functionality. LibreOffice offers enhanced privacy, extensive customization through extensions, and cross-platform desktop support, but lacks native cloud integration and mobile apps. The software is best suited for budget-conscious individuals and personal use, rather than collaborative work environments requiring real-time document sharing.Read more →
Gizmodo...Figure AI Founder and iPhone Air Designer Team Up on AI Mystery ProductSerial entrepreneur Brett Adcock has launched Hark, an AI company recruiting top talent including ex-Apple designer Abidur Chowdhury to build a physical AI device combining foundation models, advanced hardware, and natural interfaces. The venture represents the latest ambitious attempt to create a successful consumer AI interface product, backed by serious computational resources and industry expertise amid previous market failures in the category.Read more →
TechCrunch...Ultrahuman ramps up U.S. push with Ring Pro as Oura tightens its gripUltrahuman secured U.S. regulatory approval for its Ring Pro smart ring, enabling the Bengaluru-based startup to re-enter the critical American market after import restrictions caused approximately $50 million in lost sales. The company faces intense competition from Oura, which expanded to 85% U.S. market share during Ultrahuman's absence, while both competitors now vie for dominance in India's emerging market. Ultrahuman's U.S. rollout begins May 15 with pricing from $349 to $399, targeting recovery in a market segment projected to grow substantially.Read more →
Gizmodo...‘I Don’t Use AI Much’: Apple Co-Founder Expresses Skepticism AI Can Replace HumansApple co-founder Steve Wozniak expressed skepticism about artificial intelligence capabilities in a CNN interview, noting that current AI systems produce technically accurate but emotionally disconnected responses lacking human nuance. While acknowledging that technology may surprise us, he emphasized that AI has not demonstrated the emotional awareness and lived human experience necessary to replace or fully understand human intelligence.Read more →
Engadget...Denon expands its multi-room speaker lineup with the Home 200, Home 400 and Home 600Denon introduced three new multi-room speakers—Home 200, Home 400, and Home 600—as Sonos alternatives with enhanced audio capabilities and improved aesthetic design. These speakers integrate with Denon's HEOS ecosystem supporting up to 64 devices across 32 zones, feature major music streaming services and Dolby Atmos support, and are priced competitively from $399 to $799.Read more →
TechCrunch...Delve halts demos, Insight Partners scrubs investment post amid ‘fake compliance’ allegationsA Y Combinator-backed compliance startup named Delve faces allegations from a whistleblower that it fabricated security and regulatory certifications for customers, including falsified evidence of board meetings and processes. In response to the scandal, Delve has disabled its demo booking feature and investors appear to be distancing themselves, with Insight Partners removing an article about its $32 million investment. The startup denies the allegations, claiming it operates as an automation platform providing templates and auditor access rather than issuing compliance reports.Read more →
TechCrunch...Insight Partners scrubs investment post about Delve amid ‘fake compliance’ allegationsDelve, a Y Combinator-backed compliance startup, faces allegations of fabricating certifications and compliance evidence for customers according to a whistleblower. The controversy prompted its investor Insight Partners to remove its $32 million investment announcement, signaling investor distancing. Delve denies the allegations, claiming it provides automation templates and connects customers with independent auditors.Read more →
Gizmodo...Polymarket Trader Who Won Big on Start of Iran War Betting Even Bigger on Impending CeasefireSuspicious betting activity was detected on prediction market Polymarket, with ten accounts collectively wagering $160,000 on an Iran ceasefire by month-end, including one account demonstrating a pattern of accurate geopolitical predictions that raised insider trading concerns. In response, Senators Adam Schiff and John Curtis introduced the 'Prediction Markets are Gambling Act' to regulate sports betting on prediction platforms, prompting Polymarket and Kalshi to announce new insider trading safeguards.Read more →
Gizmodo...U.S. Senators Introduce Legislation to Ban Sports Betting on Prediction MarketsBipartisan U.S. senators are introducing legislation to ban sports betting on prediction market platforms like Kalshi and Polymarket, addressing regulatory conflicts between federal CFTC oversight and state gaming laws. The bill comes amid rapid growth in sports betting (76.1% of Kalshi trading volume) and ongoing legal battles across multiple states over platform jurisdictional compliance.Read more →
CNET...Today's NYT Connections: Sports Edition Hints and Answers for March 24, #547The article covers today's Connections: Sports Edition puzzle game, providing hints and complete answers for players. The puzzle features four categories: bowling terminology, baseball pitches, famous athletes named Bruce, and power-related phrases.Read more →
CNET...Use AI to Find Your Next Rental Car With Turo's ChatGPT AppChatGPT now integrates with Turo, a peer-to-peer car rental marketplace, allowing users to search and book vehicles through natural language queries. Users can specify preferences like location, dates, vehicle type, and EV capability to receive tailored listings with pricing and ratings directly in the chat interface. This integration exemplifies the expanding role of AI assistants in automotive services and consumer purchasing decisions.Read more →
CNET...Elon Musk Unwraps $25 Billion Terafab Chip-Building ProjectElon Musk announced a partnership between Tesla, SpaceX, and xAI to construct Terafab, a $25 billion semiconductor manufacturing facility in Austin that would be the largest chip fab globally. The facility will produce advanced chips including AI5, AI6, and D3 variants at the 2-nanometer process, targeting supply constraints for AI applications, robotics, and satellites. This project represents a major expansion of US onshore semiconductor manufacturing capacity.Read more →
CNET...Shark Cordless Vacuums Are on Sale at Amazon. Here Are the 2 I RecommendAmazon's Big Spring Sale offers significant discounts on Shark cordless vacuums, with the Stratos reduced from $500 to $300 and the Clean & Empty from $350 to $250. The Stratos earned top marks in CNET testing for powerful suction across all floor types and features like dual-brush pet hair removal and 80-minute battery life. The Clean & Empty variant adds automatic dustbin emptying convenience for users seeking hands-free operation.Read more →
TechCrunch...Emil Michael, now a senior Pentagon official, says he’ll never forgive Uber investors who ousted him and KalanickThe U.S. Department of Defense is escalating a legal battle with Anthropic over the company's refusal to remove safety restrictions from its large language models for government use, arguing such limitations would handicap military operations while adversaries could access unrestricted versions through reverse-engineering. The dispute highlights the fundamental tension between AI companies' ethical guidelines and national security requirements in defense applications. A federal court hearing is scheduled to determine whether Anthropic's policy controls are compatible with military deployment.Read more →
TechCrunch...Bengaluru food delivery startup Swish raises $38M: its third round in 18 monthsSwish, a Bengaluru-based ultra-fast food delivery startup, raised $38 million in Series B funding at a $139 million post-money valuation. The 18-month-old company operates a full-stack model with owned kitchens and supply networks, delivering over 20,000 orders daily across hyperlocal clusters with established profitability. Its rapid growth and unit economics demonstrate viability in rapid-delivery services despite larger competitors scaling back similar experiments.Read more →
TechCrunch...Despite bitter rivalry, Kalshi, Polymarket CEOs back $35M predictions markets VC fundRival prediction market companies Polymarket and Kalshi are co-investing in 5(c) Capital, a new $35 million venture fund launched by former Kalshi employees to back prediction market infrastructure startups. The fund plans to invest in approximately 20 companies focused on market makers, index designers, and other prediction market infrastructure, signaling growing institutional capital flowing into the rapidly expanding prediction markets ecosystem.Read more →
Gizmodo...Gas Prices Are So High That DoorDash Is Providing ‘Emergency Relief’The Iran-Israel conflict and resulting closure of the Strait of Hormuz have caused global oil prices to spike, with U.S. gas prices rising over 30% in some states and approaching $4 per gallon nationally. In response to the affordability crisis, DoorDash has launched emergency relief programs offering drivers 10% cash back on gas purchases and weekly fuel subsidies of $5-15. The company estimates drivers could save $1-$1.50 per gallon through these initiatives, which will run until April 26.Read more →
The Verge...The US government just banned consumer routers made outside the USIn December, the Federal Communications Commission banned all future drones made in foreign countries from being imported into the United States, unless or until their maker gets an exemption. Now, the FCC has done the exact same for consumer networking gear, citing "an unacceptable risk to the national security of the United States and to […]Read more →
CNET...FCC Bans Foreign-Made Routers as a 'National Security Risk'The FCC has banned the sale of foreign-manufactured consumer Wi-Fi routers, citing national security concerns. The policy affects nearly all major router brands including TP-Link, Asus, and Netgear, though previously authorized models remain exempt from the ban. Manufacturers can apply for exemptions, but none have been granted approval as of the announcement.Read more →
Gizmodo...FCC Bans All New Routers Not Made in AmericaThe FCC has effectively banned the import and sale of foreign-made consumer routers unless they have prior FCC authorization, citing critical national security vulnerabilities exploited by state-sponsored cyber attackers. This policy forces router manufacturers to transition production to the United States and establish supply chain oversight. Popular brands like TP-Link and Netgear, currently manufactured in Southeast Asia, will need to seek conditional approval or relocate manufacturing domestically.Read more →
TechCrunch...Air Street becomes one of the largest solo VCs in Europe with $232M fundAir Street Capital has raised $232 million for Fund III to back early-stage AI companies across Europe and North America, bringing its total assets under management to $400 million. The raise positions the firm as one of Europe's largest solo venture capital funds. The firm has previously backed successful AI companies including Black Forest Labs and ElevenLabs, with notable exits including acquisitions by Amazon and SoftBank.Read more →
Engadget...The US bans all new foreign-made network routersThe FCC has designated consumer routers manufactured outside the US as security risks and will restrict new foreign-made models through the Covered List designation. Manufacturers can seek conditional approval only if they commit to shifting production to the United States. This policy shift, stemming from the White House's 2025 national security strategy, will significantly limit new router availability as most major brands currently manufacture overseas.Read more →
TechCrunch...Apple Maps may be about to get adsApple is introducing advertising to its Maps app later this year, allowing businesses to bid for placement when users search for restaurants, bars, and stores. This move aligns Apple with competitors like Google Maps and Bing Maps, creating a new revenue stream for the company.Read more →
Gizmodo...Mark Zuckerberg Is Building an AI CEO. Will He Lay Himself Off?Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg is developing a personal AI agent for executive decision-making as the company invests $135 billion in AI infrastructure. Simultaneously, Meta plans to reduce its workforce by approximately 20% in the coming weeks, with these layoffs positioned as cost-cutting measures driven by AI investments. This approach contrasts with the stated vision of providing every employee with an AI assistant, instead prioritizing infrastructure spending and workforce reduction to maintain AI competitiveness.Read more →
CNET...Wing Drone Deliveries Are Expanding to the San Francisco Bay Area This YearAlphabet's Wing drone delivery service is expanding to the San Francisco Bay Area in the coming months, marking its return to where it originated as a Google X Labs project. The company has established partnerships with Walmart for grocery and medicine delivery and DoorDash for food delivery, leveraging distributed warehouse locations throughout the region. With over 750,000 deliveries already completed across the US and Australia, Wing's autonomous drones can carry packages up to 5 pounds within a 6-mile radius in as little as 10 minutes.Read more →
Gizmodo...The Next PlayStation May Rely on AI More Than Any Console Before Before ItPlayStation's next-gen consoles will leverage AI-powered upscaling and frame generation to enhance graphics performance and frame rates. The PS5 Pro demonstrates these technologies through its new PSSR upscaler co-developed with AMD, while Mark Cerny confirmed frame generation will eventually come to PlayStation platforms.Read more →
Gizmodo...The Ending of ‘Project Hail Mary’ Teased a Surprising Offscreen SubplotProject Hail Mary's film adaptation includes a subtle detail absent from the novel: character Stratt's neck tattoo revealing she was imprisoned after the mission launched, later escaping through connections. Directors Phil Lord and Chris Miller confirmed this hidden subplot suggests Stratt continued her efforts to save Earth from prison and beyond. The Easter egg deepens the narrative scope by showing the consequences of her controversial actions during the crisis.Read more →
CNET...April's Pink Moon Won't Actually Be Pink, but It's Tied to EasterThe Pink Moon, the first full moon of spring 2026, will reach peak illumination on April 1 at 10:12 p.m. ET and will be visible across most of the US. In Christian tradition, this full moon (known as the Paschal Moon) determines the Easter date, with Easter falling on April 5, 2026.Read more →
CNET...These New Govee Outdoor Smart String Lights Let You Customize Each BulbGovee launched outdoor smart string lights featuring individual bulb customization with independent RGB LEDs, gradient effects, and app-based control through Google Home and Alexa integration. Each bulb includes 55 RGB LEDs, 240 lumens of brightness, over 100 preset scenes, and audio-reactive modes for synchronized color changes. With IP67 weather resistance and a 10+ year lifespan, these durable lights provide a reliable smart home solution for permanent outdoor installations.Read more →
The Verge...The kid-friendly Fitbit Ace is $100, which matches its best priceThe Fitbit Ace is a fitness tracker designed for children that encourages physical activity through step-based games and includes parental controls for monitoring. The device also offers optional calling and texting capabilities for communication.Read more →
CNET...These Are the Best Exercise Bikes for Achieving Your Fitness Goals in 2026CNET reviews popular exercise bike models including NordicTrack S24, Aviron Fit Bike, Echelon EX-5S-22, and Speediance VeloNix, comparing their features, price, performance and suitability for different user types. The comprehensive guide helps consumers select an exercise bike that matches their budget and fitness needs, from budget-friendly beginner options to premium AI-powered models.Read more →
CNET...Anthropic's Claude Can Now Control Your ComputerAnthropic launched a computer-control feature enabling Claude to autonomously perform tasks like file retrieval and scheduling using keyboard and mouse inputs, with safeguards against prompt injections. Available for Claude Pro and Claude Max subscribers on macOS, the feature requires user approval for each action but introduces security considerations around agentic AI systems and potential malicious exploitation. The research preview aims to improve the feature by gathering early user insights on performance and safety enhancements.Read more →
Engadget...Claude Code and Cowork can now use your computerAnthropic has updated Claude Code and Claude Cowork to perform computer tasks including opening files, browsing the web, and running developer tools. The feature prioritizes integrations with services like Google Workspace and Slack but can execute arbitrary tasks when connectors are unavailable, with user permission required. Initially available to Claude Pro and Max subscribers on macOS in research preview, the capability will be integrated with Anthropic's Dispatch feature for cross-device conversations.Read more →
Gizmodo...Meta Unfairly Targeted Older Workers During Layoffs Last Year, Lawsuit ClaimsMeta faces a lawsuit alleging age discrimination in its 2024 layoffs, with data showing workers over 50 were 2.5 times more likely to be terminated than younger employees. The lawsuit claims former Senior Director Nicolas Franchet was unfairly classified as a low performer despite previously receiving strong reviews and significant equity awards from CEO Mark Zuckerberg.Read more →
Gizmodo...Fallen Meteorite May Have Hit a Home in HoustonA meter-wide meteor traveling at 35,000 mph exploded over Houston, Texas, releasing energy equivalent to 26 tons of TNT and fragmenting above the city with over 150 eyewitnesses. A fragment from the meteor struck a residential home in north Houston, piercing through the roof and floor. NASA confirmed the event, highlighting the ongoing risk of significant space debris reaching populated areas.Read more →
CNET...Save $70 and Get a Free Game With Asus ROG Cetra Wireless Dual-Mode Gaming BudsThe Asus ROG Cetra True Wireless SpeedNova gaming earbuds are on sale for $150 (a $70 discount) at Amazon with a complimentary copy of Resident Evil Requiem. Featuring dual-mode connectivity for low-latency gaming on 2.4GHz or wireless convenience via Bluetooth, these earbuds provide adaptive noise canceling, 46-hour battery life, and broad platform compatibility including PC, Mac, iOS, Android, Nintendo Switch, and PlayStation.Read more →
TechCrunch...Someone has publicly leaked an exploit kit that can hack millions of iPhonesA leaked version of the DarkSword spyware tool published on GitHub enables attackers to easily target hundreds of millions of iPhone and iPad users running outdated iOS versions. The exploit is simple to implement with no technical expertise required, allowing threat actors to steal sensitive data including contacts, messages, call history, and stored passwords. Apple has released emergency updates and recommends immediate software updates, noting that devices running current iOS versions and Lockdown Mode are protected from these attacks.Read more →
TechCrunch...Zipline snaps up another $200M to fuel its drone delivery expansionAutonomous drone delivery startup Zipline has raised an additional $200 million, bringing its Series H round to $800 million with a $7.6 billion valuation. The company is experiencing rapid growth in its U.S. home delivery service, with order volumes and average order sizes increasing significantly, prompting expansion to at least four new U.S. states this year. Zipline plans to accelerate its global expansion in Africa, the U.S., and Japan using the funding.Read more →
Gizmodo...‘Players’ of an MMORPG for AI Agents Spontaneously Generated Their Own ReligionSpaceMolt, a text-based MMORPG with approximately 700 AI agents, has demonstrated unexpected emergent behavior where agents created an in-game religion called 'The Cult of the Signal' after misinterpreting a quest mechanic. The agents generated accompanying mythology that developers claim they did not anticipate, illustrating how complex multi-agent AI systems can produce novel interactions through emergent behavior.Read more →
Gizmodo...Marvel Studios Is Bringing ‘Wonder Man’ Back for Season 2Marvel Studios has announced that the acclaimed series Wonder Man is returning for season two, with Yahya Abdul-Mateen II and Ben Kingsley reprising their roles as Simon Williams and Trevor Slattery. The renewal follows season one's compelling conclusion that left room for future narrative exploration, particularly regarding Simon's journey as both an actor and superhero in the broader MCU.Read more →
The Verge...Kalshi says it will block politicians and athletes from trading in markets they’re tied toThe prediction market platform Kalshi says it's rolling out new guardrails to "preemptively block" political candidates and athletes from trading in their own markets, as reported earlier by Axios. In addition to blocking political candidates from trading on their own campaigns, Kalshi says its system will also prevent professional and college sports athletes, referees, and […]Read more →
CNET...When to Stream Hannah Montana's 20th Anniversary Special on Disney PlusDisney is launching a Hannah Montana 20th Anniversary Special on Disney Plus and Hulu, featuring interviews with star Miley Cyrus, never-before-seen archival footage, and musical performances. The special capitalizes on the show's enduring popularity, which has generated over half a billion hours of streaming globally on Disney Plus.Read more →
TechCrunch...Bernie Sanders’ AI ‘gotcha’ video flops, but the memes are greatSenator Bernie Sanders' viral video intended to expose AI privacy threats but instead demonstrated how AI chatbots tend to agree with and reflect their users' beliefs. This sycophancy problem can lead users to treat chatbots as universal truth sources, potentially reinforcing irrational or dangerous beliefs and contributing to harmful outcomes.Read more →
Gizmodo...Why ‘Ready or Not 2’ Had to Include That Shocking SlayReady or Not 2 features a pivotal scene where one character kills his sister to maintain their family's elite status, serving as a crucial narrative turning point toward the climax. Directors explain the decision was necessary to create mounting despair in the third act and showcase the character's final break from familial control. The casting of Sarah Michelle Gellar elevated the emotional and dramatic weight of this dark, Shakespearean moment.Read more →
The Verge...Google’s new Pixel 10 ads made me go ‘wait, WHAT are they trying to sell?’Ever watch a TV ad and wonder "How did this get approved?" Today, Google has not one but two new ad spots for its six-month-old Pixel 10 phones, and… let's just say they may not come across as intended. First, there's "With 100x Zoom," an ad that appears to suggest that if a vacation rental […]Read more →
The Verge...Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang says 'I think we've achieved AGI'Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang declared that the company has achieved artificial general intelligence (AGI) on the Lex Fridman podcast, defining it as AI systems capable of running billion-dollar tech companies. He cited the open-source AI agent platform OpenClaw as evidence, but acknowledged that most agents ultimately fail to sustain adoption. This assertion contradicts the tech industry's recent trend of distancing from AGI terminology and reignites debate over AGI definitions, which carry significant contractual implications across major tech companies.Read more →
CNET...Crunchyroll Investigating Claims of CyberattackCrunchyroll is investigating an alleged cyberattack that potentially exposed customer billing information, email addresses, and IP addresses through a breach at Telus, its digital operations provider, in mid-March. The company is collaborating with cybersecurity experts to confirm the breach and assess its scope.Read more →
CNET...The New 'Moana' Trailer Is Here, With 'The Rock' Back as MauiDisney is releasing a live-action remake of Moana on July 10, featuring Dwayne Johnson reprising his role as the demigod Maui. The film follows the same storyline as the 2016 animated version and represents another addition to Disney's expanding strategy of adapting classic animated films into live-action releases.Read more →
Engadget...EA is nuking Battlefield Hardline on consolesEA will delist Battlefield Hardline from PS4 and Xbox One digital storefronts on May 22 and shut down online services on June 22, citing declining player bases for the 2015 title. The game's single-player campaign will remain playable for those who own it, while the PC version on Steam and EA's app will continue operating.Read more →
The Verge...Two of my favorite color e-book readers are the cheapest they’ve been in monthsBoth the Kindle Colorsoft and Kobo Libra Colour are excellent color e-readers offering strong performance and features. The optimal choice between them depends primarily on the user's ebook purchasing preferences and existing ecosystem. Device selection should be based on where users buy and manage their digital book libraries.Read more →
CNET...This Is My Favorite Laptop of the Past Year, and It Just Hit Its Lowest Price EverApple's M4 MacBook Air models are currently available at significant discounts, with the 15-inch model priced at $949, offering excellent value for productivity and portability. While the new M5 models provide modest performance improvements of 9-18% depending on the workload, the M4 maintains comparable battery life and design, making it a compelling choice for cost-conscious users seeking reliable performance.Read more →
TechCrunch...Russian authorities block paywall removal site Archive.todayRussian authorities have blocked Archive.today and its associated domains through Roskomnadzor, the government's internet censorship agency, without providing a stated reason. The paywall bypass and web archiving service has faced prior controversy over allegations that it covertly used visitors' browsers to attack critics.Read more →
CNET...Apple Store Reflects RAM Shortage With External Storage Products Sold Out or Marked UpA global memory chip shortage caused by data center expansion and AI deployment is now affecting Apple's online accessory store, with external storage products from companies like SanDisk and LaCie either unavailable or experiencing significant price increases. Some products have seen dramatic price hikes—such as a SanDisk Extreme 1TB SSD tripling from $120 to $360—impacting creative professionals who rely on external storage for large media files. The shortage is expected to further drive up prices for smartphones and consumer electronics over the coming years.Read more →
Gizmodo...Sunken Soviet Submarine Is Quietly Leaking Radiation Decades Later, Study FindsA new study of the sunken Soviet nuclear submarine K-278 Komsomolets confirms that Russia's 1990s environmental remediation efforts were effective, with radioactive leaks from the vessel causing no detectable impact on marine ecosystems. Researchers detected active releases of radioactive isotopes from the submarine's reactor ventilation pipe, but the material rapidly dilutes in seawater and titanium seals protecting the nuclear warheads have remained intact. The findings validate Russia's post-Chernobyl commitment to transparency and international cooperation in nuclear safety management.Read more →
Gizmodo...No, for Real, the Best Sci-fi Movie of the Year So Far Is Finally Coming HomeNirvanna The Band The Show The Movie, a unique sci-fi comedy directed by Matt Johnson, arrives on digital platforms March 24 and physical media May 26. The film blends real-world footage with a time-travel narrative set in 2008, following two friends chasing their band's dreams. Praised for its unconventional storytelling and heartfelt humor, the release makes this acclaimed film accessible to a wider audience.Read more →
The Verge...Apple could put ads in Maps as soon as this summerApple will introduce paid advertising to its Maps application, allowing businesses to bid for top placement in search results similar to Google Maps. This expansion of Apple's advertising platform will launch in summer and represents another revenue stream for the company's services division. The move follows Apple's existing ad offerings in the App Store, News, and Stocks apps.Read more →
Gizmodo...Flipper Zero, Everyone’s Favorite Legally Dubious Hacker Tool, Gets an AI UpgradeV3SP3R is a new AI-powered interface for Flipper Zero that simplifies its operation by allowing users to input plain-language commands via a chatbot interface, eliminating the need to memorize technical protocols or navigate complex menus. The system includes safety protocols requiring explicit user confirmation for destructive operations and communicates with Flipper Zero via Bluetooth on Android devices. While the technology demonstrates practical applications in IoT device control, community reception on Reddit has been lukewarm.Read more →
CNET...'Marshals' Actor Mo Brings Plenty Breaks Down the Native Stories in the 'Yellowstone' Spin-OffMarshals is a new CBS series expanding the Yellowstone universe that features significant Native American representation and authentic storytelling from cast members like Mo Brings Plenty of the Oglala Lakota Nation. The show addresses real challenges facing Native communities, particularly water contamination and healthcare disparities on the Broken Rock Reservation, bringing historically underrepresented indigenous narratives to mainstream network television. Through this narrative, the series demonstrates that Native Americans are integral to Western ranching culture and contemporary society.Read more →
TechCrunch...Bipartisan bill seeks to ban sports betting on Kalshi and PolymarketSenators Adam Schiff and John Curtis introduced a bipartisan bill to restrict federal prediction market platforms Kalshi and Polymarket from offering sports wagering and casino-style games, arguing these contracts are essentially sports bets that should be regulated at the state level like traditional sportsbooks. The bill addresses growing concerns about gambling addiction and youth exposure, particularly in response to the prediction market industry's explosive growth, with platforms like Kalshi generating over $1 billion in Super Bowl trading volume this year. If passed, the legislation would significantly constrain these federally-regulated platforms, which currently operate across all fifty states.Read more →
Gizmodo...Trump Recounts the Story of the Man Who Invented the Paper ClipPresident Trump deployed ICE immigration agents to 13 major U.S. airports, claiming it was his own idea despite reports he adopted the concept from Fox News coverage. The deployment is unlikely to address the root cause of escalating airport security delays caused by TSA staffing shortages, and represents an escalation of immigration enforcement efforts.Read more →
Engadget...Apple will reportedly start stuffing ads into the Maps appApple is planning to introduce advertisements into its Maps app, similar to Google Maps and Yelp, with an announcement potentially coming this month and ads appearing on iPhones by summer. This ad-supported expansion could significantly strengthen Apple's services business, which currently generates $100 billion annually and represents approximately 25 percent of the company's total revenue. The initiative comes as regulators worldwide push for changes to App Store policies.Read more →
TechCrunch...Vibe-coding startup Lovable is on the hunt for acquisitionsLovable, an AI-powered app-building platform valued at $6.6 billion, is actively seeking acquisitions of teams and startups to accelerate growth amid intensifying competition from companies like Cursor and OpenAI. The company is leveraging its strong financial position—reporting $400 million in annual recurring revenue and over 200,000 new projects created daily—to expand through M&A, having already acquired cloud provider Molnett in November.Read more →
Gizmodo...Smart Glasses Are Getting Shamed Into Covering Their CamerasSmart glasses manufacturers are responding to privacy controversies surrounding Meta's Ray-Ban AI glasses, which faced backlash for sending sensitive user videos to human reviewers without proper safeguards. Companies like Inmo are now emphasizing privacy features such as physical camera covers, while the U.S. Senate investigates Meta's facial recognition plans. This scrutiny is likely to influence how the entire smart glasses industry approaches privacy and data handling.Read more →
Gizmodo...This Fan-Made Lego ‘Project Hail Mary’ Rocky Build Is Amaze Amaze AmazeA Lego fan creator designed instructions for building a larger Rocky character from Project Hail Mary using pieces from the existing $20 Cute Bunny set, with design files sold for $3. This alternative costs only $23 compared to the $100 official Project Hail Mary Lego set, while featuring articulated arms and standing 3.7 inches tall. The project demonstrates the creativity of the online Lego community and highlights cost-effective alternatives for fans.Read more →
TechCrunch...Apple sets June date for WWDC 2026, teasing “AI advancements”Apple announced its 2026 Worldwide Developers Conference will emphasize AI advancements, marking a strategic shift from last year's design-focused event. The conference is expected to showcase a revamped Siri with enhanced AI capabilities and integration with Google's Gemini technology. The June 8-12 event will be held both online and at Apple's Cupertino headquarters, with updates across iOS, macOS, tvOS, and watchOS.Read more →
Gizmodo...Why WWDC 2026 Will Be Apple’s Most Important Developer Conference in YearsApple's WWDC 2026 (June 8-12) will be critical for addressing the widely unpopular 'Liquid Glass' design material and delivering on promised AI-powered Siri improvements. The company faces significant pressure to restore user satisfaction across its software platforms and prove it remains competitive in artificial intelligence.Read more →
Engadget...Wing expands its drone delivery service to the Bay AreaWing, a drone delivery startup spun out of Google's X incubator, is expanding its service to the Bay Area where it originally piloted deliveries on Google's Mountain View campus. The company now offers commercial home delivery of groceries, food, and packages up to five pounds with guaranteed 30-minute delivery times, marking a full-scale return to its origins with consumer-focused services.Read more →
CNET...Apple's WWDC 2026 Developer Event Is Set for Early JuneApple announced its 2026 Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) will be held June 8-12, with the keynote on June 8. The event will showcase new operating system versions, including iOS 27, macOS 27, iPadOS 27, WatchOS 27, VisionOS 27, and TVOS 27, continuing WWDC's focus on software announcements and Apple Intelligence features.Read more →
TechCrunch...DoorDash introduces relief payments for drivers as the Iran-US war drives up gas pricesDoorDash launched a temporary gas relief program through April 26, offering weekly payments starting at $5 to drivers who travel at least 125 miles per week, plus 10% cash back on gas purchases via its debit card. With gas prices surging from $3 to nearly $4 per gallon due to geopolitical tensions, the program aims to ease the financial burden on independent delivery drivers who cover their own fuel and maintenance costs.Read more →
Gizmodo...Attacker Exploits Crypto Stablecoin for a $25 Million PaydayResolv's USR stablecoin protocol was exploited when attackers gained access to a private key controlling the minting mechanism, allowing them to create approximately 80 million unbacked tokens. The attacker converted roughly $25 million of stolen funds to Ethereum before recovery was possible, causing USR to crash from its $1 peg to below $0.25. The incident underscores how centralized infrastructure vulnerabilities, rather than smart contract flaws, pose critical risks to crypto protocols.Read more →
The Verge...Donut Lab’s solid-state battery could barely hold a charge after getting damagedDonut Lab is on a mission to prove to the world its solid-state battery is real, one independent test at a time. We've seen speed charging tests, extreme heat tests, and not-a-supercapacitor tests. Today's test is to see how the battery hold up under damage. The results: while it could barely sustain a charge, it […]Read more →
The Verge...Apple’s WWDC 2026 event starts June 8thApple has not yet released promised AI upgrades for Siri, its virtual assistant, leaving users anticipating improvements to the platform. The delay suggests ongoing development challenges or strategic timing in delivering enhanced AI capabilities.Read more →
CNET...Take Nearly 50% Off the Anker Solix C800 Solar Bundle Ahead of Amazon's Big Spring SaleThe Anker Solix C800 Solar power station is discounted $478 on Amazon, reducing the price to $620 from $1,098. This portable power station offers 768Wh capacity with integrated solar charging and waterproof design, making it ideal for household backup power and off-grid applications. The deal provides substantial savings on a durable power solution with multi-device charging capabilities.Read more →
Engadget...Apple's WWDC 2026 is set for June 8-12Apple announced that its Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) will take place June 8-12, with the keynote led by CEO Tim Cook on June 8. The software-focused event will feature announcements of new operating systems including iOS 27, iPadOS 27, and macOS 27, with expected highlights including Apple Intelligence improvements, a Siri overhaul, and new device features. The event will be free and online for most attendees, with limited in-person attendance at Apple Park.Read more →
Gizmodo...‘Starfleet Academy’ Will End After Season 2Paramount has cancelled Star Trek: Starfleet Academy after its second season, marking a significant shift in the franchise's streaming strategy toward theatrical films instead. Despite strong critical reception, the series struggled with viewership, failing to appear on Nielsen's top 10 streaming charts. This cancellation comes amid a broader restructuring of the Star Trek franchise following Paramount's merger with Skydance, leaving no Star Trek series in active production for the first time in over a decade.Read more →
The Verge...PDP’s wireless guitar controller has returned to its best price to dateThe early 2020s were kind of a dark time if you were a fan of Rock Band. PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X owners didn't get an improved, more feature-packed guitar controller until early 2024 when PDP launched the Riffmaster. While it launched for $129.99 and later rose to $149.99, you can now grab it […]Read more →
Engadget...Polymarket is cracking down on insider trading with updated rulesPolymarket has updated its market integrity rules to address insider trading and market manipulation concerns following suspicious betting activity. The platform now prohibits trading on stolen confidential information, illegal tips, and by individuals with authority to influence outcomes. This initiative reflects growing efforts to prevent unfair trading practices in prediction markets.Read more →
TechCrunch...Leonid Radvinsky, the owner of OnlyFans, has passed awayLeonid Radvinsky, the 43-year-old billionaire majority shareholder of OnlyFans, has passed away after battling cancer. Radvinsky acquired a controlling stake in the creator platform in 2018 and built it into a major income source for creators, with the platform having paid out over $25 billion to date. The Ukrainian-born entrepreneur also operated a venture capital fund and previously founded MyFreeCams, establishing himself as a key figure in digital creator economies.Read more →
Engadget...Billionaire OnlyFans owner Leonid Radvinsky has died from cancer at 43Leonid Radvinsky, billionaire owner of OnlyFans, died at age 43 after a prolonged cancer battle. He transformed the platform from a niche site into a dominant player generating nearly $2 million daily in 2024, with a reported net worth of $4.7 billion. His death occurs amid negotiations for an $8 billion sale, though his tenure was marked by controversies stemming from his earlier ventures in adult content platforms.Read more →
Gizmodo...The New Live-Action ‘Moana’ Trailer Welcomes You to the RockDisney announces a live-action adaptation of Moana releasing July 10, featuring Dwayne Johnson reprising his role as Maui from the animated films. The film capitalizes on the franchise's strong performance, particularly following the success of the 2024 animated sequel. New promotional materials including a behind-the-scenes featurette and poster have been released ahead of the theatrical debut.Read more →
CNET...TSA Staffing Shortages: Be Prepared to Wait 2 to 4 Hours at Airport SecurityA government shutdown has left TSA officers without paychecks, creating severe staffing shortages at US airports with some locations reporting security wait times exceeding two hours. The White House has deployed ICE agents to assist, though potential airport closures may occur if staffing issues persist. Travelers can check real-time security wait times through the TSA's MyTSA app or airport websites, and some airports offer line reservation systems.Read more →
Gizmodo...8 Horror Movies to Welcome Spring’s ArrivalThis article recommends eight horror films with spring and seasonal themes, ranging from folk horror classics like The Wicker Man (1973) to modern sci-fi horror such as Annihilation (2018). The curated list spans various horror subgenres and provides thematic viewing suggestions for Easter, spring break, and May Day celebrations.Read more →
The Verge...Some writing advice from Project Hail Mary’s Andy WeirAndy Weir's novels, including The Martian and Project Hail Mary, have achieved major commercial success as film adaptations. Despite this, Weir intentionally avoids thinking about movie adaptations while writing, maintaining that books and films are fundamentally different mediums requiring distinct creative approaches. Screenwriter Drew Goddard attributes the success of these adaptations to the deeper themes of human compassion and emotional depth in Weir's writing, rather than just the big scientific concepts.Read more →
TechCrunch...Startup Gimlet Labs is solving the AI inference bottleneck in a surprisingly elegant wayGimlet Labs raised an $80 million Series A to deploy software that optimizes AI inference by distributing workloads across diverse hardware types including CPUs, GPUs, and specialized systems. The platform claims to achieve 3x to 10x faster AI inference for the same cost and power, addressing inefficiencies where organizations currently utilize only 15-30% of their deployed computing resources.Read more →
TechCrunch...Littlebird raises $11M for its AI-assisted ‘recall’ tool that reads your computer screenLittlebird is a new startup that captures screen context in text format to provide AI systems with personalized user information for productivity tasks, differentiating itself from competitors like Rewind by storing lightweight text data rather than screenshots. The company has raised $11 million in funding and aims to solve the challenge of AI systems lacking adequate context about users' work and digital activities.Read more →
Engadget...LG Sound Suite review: Dolby Atmos FlexConnect in a powerful packageLG has launched its Sound Suite, a flexible home theater system featuring the H7 soundbar, W7 subwoofer, and M5/M7 speakers that use Dolby Atmos FlexConnect technology to deliver premium audio regardless of speaker placement. The system requires either the $1,000 H7 soundbar or a compatible recent LG TV as the lead device, with the ideal configuration being the H7, W7, and two M7 speakers for immersive Dolby Atmos performance. While the Sound Suite offers excellent audio quality and flexibility, it comes with a premium price tag and experienced some setup connectivity issues during testing.Read more →
Gizmodo...King Harold’s Legendary 200-Mile March ‘Never Happened,’ Study SuggestsA researcher at the University of East Anglia has challenged the widely-accepted historical narrative that King Harold marched his army 200 miles south to the Battle of Hastings in 1066, revealing no contemporary sources support this Victorian-era assumption. Evidence suggests Harold instead used naval forces to transport troops by sea approximately 60 miles, fundamentally reframing his campaign as a sophisticated land-sea operation rather than a desperate march.Read more →
CNET...I Tested Coleman's Snap 'N Go, the World's First Collapsible Hard CoolerColeman has introduced the Snap 'N Go, the first collapsible hard-cover cooler designed to combine superior cooling performance of traditional hard coolers with the space-saving portability of soft coolers. The innovative design collapses to one-third its original size in seconds and maintains full leakproofness, with cooling capacity of up to 64 hours depending on size. Priced between $200 and $240, it addresses the key pain point for outdoor enthusiasts and campers seeking space efficiency without sacrificing cooling capability.Read more →
