TechCrunch...A16z VC wants founders to stop stressing over insane ARR numbersAndreessen Horowitz partner Jennifer Li warns that many AI startups are conflating revenue run rate with actual annual recurring revenue, leading to inflated growth claims that create unrealistic pressure on founders. She advocates for sustainable growth models that prioritize customer retention and business durability over rapid top-line expansion, noting that even 5-10x year-over-year growth is exceptional without requiring the mythical zero-to-$100M trajectory.Read more →
Gizmodo...‘Predator: Badlands’ Is Roaring Onto Hulu Next WeekPredator: Badlands, the highest-grossing Predator film to date, will be available on Hulu and Disney+ starting February 12, alongside other franchise entries. The film's critical and commercial success has prompted the streamers to add 15 creator videos and expand their Predator content library.Read more →
Gizmodo...Why Cops Frequently Got Caught Planting Drugs in 2017Police body cameras, which automatically capture 30 seconds of pre-recorded footage when activated, inadvertently exposed officers planting drugs between 2016-2018 because many didn't understand this feature. The article examines cases in Baltimore, Los Angeles, and Florida where officers were caught on their own cameras fabricating evidence, raising questions about whether body cameras actually serve as effective accountability tools when officers can disable them.Read more →
Engadget...X's latest Community Notes experiment allows AI to write the first draftX is testing a new "Collaborative Notes" feature that uses AI to generate Community Notes based on contributor requests, allowing human reviewers to rate and suggest improvements. The system aims to accelerate the fact-checking process, which has historically been slow, while leveraging community feedback to improve AI-generated notes over time.Read more →
CNET...Today's NYT Connections: Sports Edition Hints and Answers for Feb. 6, #501The New York Times' Connections: Sports Edition puzzle celebrates the Winter Olympics with a sports-themed word game featuring Italian Olympic host cities, figure skating jumps, American Olympic athletes, and ski-related terms. The puzzle is available through The Athletic's app and website, offering hints and answers for players seeking guidance.Read more →
The Verge...Iron Lung’s path to theaters was unique, even if the movie isn’tIron Lung, an indie horror film based on a 2022 video game and directed by YouTube star Markiplier, earned over $20 million at the box office without major studio backing, demonstrating the power of online audiences to disrupt traditional Hollywood distribution. The film's success represents a significant shift in media where digital creators with millions of followers can bypass traditional gatekeepers and achieve mainstream commercial success.Read more →
Gizmodo...If You’re Sick of This Brutal Cold, Boy Do We Have News for YouThe eastern United States faces one final Arctic blast expected to bring dangerous wind chills as low as -35°F this weekend, the coldest period of the winter season. After this cold snap passes, the National Weather Service forecasts above-average temperatures from February 12-18, signaling the beginning of a warming trend and the approach of meteorological winter's end.Read more →
CNET...T-Mobile's New Unlimited Phone Plan Is Packed With Perks, but Check the DetailsT-Mobile's new Better Value plan offers compelling benefits for groups of three or more lines, including 250GB of high-speed hotspot data, international coverage in 215+ countries, and included streaming services at the same $140/month price as their Experience More plan. The plan requires either switching from another carrier with multiple lines or being a five-year T-Mobile postpaid customer, reflecting the carrier's strategy to reward loyalty and incentivize multi-line adoptions.Read more →
The Verge...The price of Bitcoin drops below $65,000Bitcoin dropped over 10 percent in a single day to approximately $64,000, its lowest level since the 2024 Presidential election, continuing a steady decline from its October 2025 peak above $122,000. The cryptocurrency's significant pullback follows months of volatility after reaching $100,000 in November 2024.Read more →
Gizmodo...No, Jeffrey Epstein Is Probably Not Satoshi NakamotoThe recent DOJ release of Epstein files revealed his early involvement in Bitcoin and blockchain companies like Blockstream and Coinbase, sparking numerous conspiracy theories online. False claims linking Epstein to Bitcoin's creation and alleged backdoors have proliferated on social media, with rival cryptocurrency proponents using the controversy to attack Bitcoin while promoting alternative tokens like XRP and Bitcoin SV.Read more →
CNET...Ballerina Farm Has Paused Raw Milk Sales. This Is WhyHannah and Daniel Neeleman's Ballerina Farm has stopped selling raw milk produced by its Utah farm.Read more →
Gizmodo...OpenAI Enters a New Frontier: Trying to Make MoneyOpenAI launched Frontier, an enterprise platform for building, deploying, and managing AI agents that integrate with existing corporate systems like Salesforce. The move reflects OpenAI's loss of market share to competitors like Anthropic and Google, as enterprise customers now account for a growing portion of OpenAI's revenue and represent the company's primary path to profitability.Read more →
Engadget...Everything we know about Valve's new Steam MachineValve announced a new Steam Machine home console in November 2025, featuring custom AMD Zen 4 CPU and RDNA3 GPU hardware designed to play most Steam titles at 4K 60FPS. The device will launch in 2026 at premium PC-comparable pricing, supporting Linux-native and Windows games via Proton compatibility layer, with compatibility verification expanding from Steam Deck to include the new Steam Machine and Steam Frame VR headset.Read more →
TechCrunch...OpenAI launches new agentic coding model only minutes after Anthropic drops its ownOpenAI launched GPT-5.3 Codex, an upgraded version of its Codex agentic coding tool that expands capabilities beyond code writing and review to handle nearly any task developers perform on a computer. The new model is 25% faster than its predecessor and can create complex games and apps from scratch, democratizing software development.Read more →
CNET...I Spent the Week at the Super Bowl Stadium and Saw Some Awesome TechLevi's Stadium is equipped with cutting-edge technology for Super Bowl LIX, including over 120 Sony cameras, Wi-Fi 7 connectivity, custom Sony NFL headsets, and advanced L-Acoustics sound systems. The event features extensive cybersecurity monitoring, real-time video color correction, and integrated production capabilities across multiple broadcast trailers to deliver the game to millions of viewers.Read more →
Gizmodo...‘Rock Springs’ Brings Horror From the Past Into Its Tale of Contemporary GriefRock Springs is a horror drama that weaves together a family's grief following tragedy with the haunting legacy of the 1885 Rock Springs massacre, as a Chinese-Vietnamese family moves to a small town and encounters both contemporary racism and supernatural disturbances rooted in historical trauma. The film explores generational trauma and Chinese beliefs about the afterlife through intimate storytelling, featuring strong performances from Kelly Marie Tran and Benedict Wong.Read more →
CNET...Dragon Quest 7: Reimagined Review: A Nostalgic JRPG That Balances Charm and ModernizationSquare Enix has released Dragon Quest 7: Reimagined, a modernized remake of the 2000 PlayStation classic featuring streamlined gameplay, improved visuals, and quality-of-life enhancements that reduce the original's lengthy prologue from three hours to one. The remake introduces the Moonlighting system allowing characters to switch jobs while retaining skills, and reduces the completion time from 80+ hours to approximately 40 hours, though some fans may find it less faithful to the original.Read more →
Engadget...Prime members can play Alan Wake 2 for free on LunaAmazon Prime members can now play Alan Wake 2, a critically acclaimed 2023 horror-survival game, for free on Luna cloud gaming service this month, along with other titles including Indiana Jones and the Great Circle DLC and Disney Universe. The service also offers downloadable PC games including Tiny Tina's Wonderlands and Total War: Attila at no additional cost to Prime subscribers.Read more →
Engadget...Meta is giving its AI slop feed an app of its ownMeta is developing a standalone app for Vibes, its AI-generated video creation feature that was introduced in the Meta AI app in September 2025. The move aims to capitalize on strong user engagement and provide a dedicated platform for creating and sharing TikTok-style vertical videos, aligning with Meta's strategy to leverage AI-generated content as a major source of platform engagement.Read more →
Engadget...Project Hail Mary is getting its own LEGO setLEGO is releasing an 830-piece Project Hail Mary set ahead of the film's March 20 theatrical release, marking an unusual move for the toy company to create a set based on a contemporary property rather than an established franchise. The $100 set features a replica of The Hail Mary spaceship with minifigures and a functional crank mechanism that simulates centrifugal gravity, available for preorder with shipment on March 1.Read more →
The Verge...Zuckerberg considered changing how Meta studies social issues after research got it in troubleUnsealed emails reveal Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg discussing whether to change the company's approach to researching platform harms after the Wall Street Journal published findings that Instagram negatively affects teen girls' mental health. Zuckerberg argued Meta should be commended for studying these issues more than competitors like Apple and YouTube, suggesting other platforms avoid scrutiny by conducting less research and thus facing fewer leaks and public criticism.Read more →
Gizmodo...Xikipedia Wants to Take the ‘Doom’ Out of ‘Doomscrolling’Developer Lyra Rebane created Xikipedia, an open-source social media feed that algorithmically serves random Wikipedia articles, allowing users to scroll and discover content similar to their interests without the engagement-driven algorithms of traditional social platforms. The project demonstrates how a basic algorithm can learn user preferences and suggest relevant content while maintaining user privacy and mental wellness by avoiding rage-inducing content.Read more →
Gizmodo...Laurence Fishburne Is the Latest Big Name to Join Mike Flanagan’s ‘The Exorcist’Mike Flanagan is directing a new Exorcist film starring Scarlett Johansson, Laurence Fishburne, Chiwetel Ejiofor, and Diane Lane, scheduled for March 2027. The project marks Flanagan's return to horror filmmaking with an all-star cast of Oscar nominees and is being positioned as his most ambitious and terrifying film to date.Read more →
CNET...How to Watch 2026 Six Nations Rugby Live From Anywhere For FreeThe 2026 Six Nations rugby tournament runs from February 5 through March 14, featuring defending champions France facing competition from England's 11-match winning streak and other top teams. All 15 matches will be broadcast live across multiple streaming platforms including Peacock in the US, BBC and ITV in the UK, and regional services in other countries.Read more →
TechCrunch...One of Europe’s largest universities knocked offline for days after cyberattackLa Sapienza University in Rome suffered a three-day systems outage following a ransomware attack by the previously unknown hacking group Femwar02, which used BabLock malware. The university shut down systems as a precaution, is restoring from unaffected backups, and continues exam operations through alternative methods while Italian cybersecurity authorities investigate.Read more →
Gizmodo...Can You Guess What Creature Won the Close-Up Photographer of the Year Competition?The Close-Up Photographer of the Year competition showcases extraordinary macro and micro photography from around the world, with Australian photographer Ross Gudgeon winning the grand prize for his intimate underwater image of a cauliflower soft coral captured using an innovative probe lens. The competition features diverse category winners including wildlife photographers documenting insects, amphibians, fungi, and plants, as well as artists working with unconventional materials, revealing hidden details and perspectives of nature and art invisible to the naked eye.Read more →
TechCrunch...Elon Musk is getting serious about orbital data centersSpaceX and xAI formally merged, with Elon Musk proposing an ambitious orbital data center network comprising a million satellites for AI computing. Musk argues that space-based AI infrastructure will be more cost-effective due to superior solar power generation, predicting that within five years, more AI computing capacity will be launched and operated in space annually than exists cumulatively on Earth today.Read more →
Engadget...The CIA stops publishing The World FactbookThe CIA is discontinuing The World Factbook, a reference guide that has provided information about countries and communities since 1962. The agency did not explain the decision, though federal workforce reductions in 2025 may have contributed to deprioritizing this public-facing resource.Read more →
The Verge...One of the best laptop power banks available is cheaper than everThis article highlights several tech gadget deals, with a focus on Anker's 25,000mAh Laptop Power Bank available at an all-time low price of $87.99. The piece also covers discounts on other consumer electronics including the Google Pixel Watch 4, Blink Mini 2 camera, and Mui Board Gen 2 smart home controller, each offering notable features and improvements over previous generations.Read more →
CNET...Ready for Super Bowl 2026? Here's How to Watch the Patriots vs. Seahawks on StreamingSuper Bowl LX features a rematch between the New England Patriots and Seattle Seahawks on February 8, 2026, at Levi's Stadium, with kickoff at 6:30 p.m. ET. The game will air on NBC and stream on Peacock, with Bad Bunny headlining the halftime show and multiple viewing options available internationally.Read more →
TechCrunch...NASA astronauts can now bring their phones with them on their mission to the moonNASA is allowing astronauts to bring smartphones to space for the first time, starting with Crew-12 and Artemis II missions, enabling them to capture and share real-time imagery from orbit and lunar missions. This represents a significant operational shift, allowing for more spontaneous documentation of space exploration compared to previously approved decade-old camera equipment.Read more →
The Verge...I tested several cases for the Switch 2 and these are the bestThis article reviews various protective cases for the Nintendo Switch 2, evaluating their fit, protection, and functionality across handheld and docked modes. The Dbrand Killswitch emerges as the top choice for its secure fit and versatility, while alternatives like the Jsaux Split Case and Tomtoc FancyCase offer budget-friendly and stylish options respectively.Read more →
The Verge...Super Bowl LX ads: all AI everythingSam Altman criticized Anthropic's Super Bowl ad campaign as 'dishonest,' claiming OpenAI would never run ads in ways that compromise user experience. Anthropic's ad emphasizes that Claude won't show sponsored links or include advertiser-influenced content, contrasting with OpenAI's recent announcement of testing ads in its platform.Read more →
Gizmodo...Razer Wants to Sell You a $1,337 Gaming MouseRazer is releasing a limited edition Boomslang 20th Anniversary Edition mouse priced at $1,337 (spelled in leetspeak as L33T), with only 1,337 units produced. The collector's item features premium materials like PU leather and modern gaming specifications including a 45,000 DPI optical sensor and 8,000Hz polling rate, but is primarily designed as a display piece rather than a daily-use gaming mouse.Read more →
TechCrunch...OpenAI launches a way for enterprises to build and manage AI agentsOpenAI launched Frontier, an enterprise platform for building and managing AI agents with support for external integrations and cross-platform agent management. The platform positions agent management as critical infrastructure for enterprise AI adoption, competing with existing solutions from Salesforce, LangChain, and others in a rapidly growing market.Read more →
Engadget...The Switch 2-exclusive co-op adventure Orbitals launches this summerNintendo announced Orbitals, a two-player co-op puzzle adventure game exclusive to Switch 2 featuring 90s anime-inspired visuals and gameplay similar to It Takes Two. The game will release during summer 2026 and supports both local and online multiplayer through the console's GameShare feature.Read more →
Gizmodo...Scientists Tried Drilling Into Antarctica’s ‘Doomsday Glacier,’ But the Ice Had Other PlansA research team attempting to deploy long-term monitoring instruments beneath Antarctica's Thwaites Glacier failed when equipment became stuck in the ice during descent, forcing abandonment of the equipment. Despite this setback, the team successfully collected valuable data revealing warm ocean conditions beneath the glacier that contribute to its destabilization, which could raise global sea levels by up to 25 inches if it collapses completely.Read more →
CNET...Anthropic's Powerful Claude Opus AI Model Is Getting an UpgradeAnthropic announced Claude Opus 4.6, an enhanced version of its Claude Opus 4.5 model with improved coding capabilities and better performance on complex tasks. The new model features enhanced reasoning abilities, multi-step verification, and adjustable effort levels, available to paying Claude users on Pro, Max, Team, and Enterprise plans.Read more →
Gizmodo...The Director of ‘Masters of the Universe’ Promises It’ll Be SillyDirector Travis Knight's upcoming Masters of the Universe film embraces the franchise's inherent silliness while making it accessible to modern audiences unfamiliar with the 1980s source material. Drawing parallels to his successful Bumblebee adaptation, Knight aims to balance entertainment value with respect for the franchise's lore and fanbase.Read more →
The Verge...Who’s who and what’s what in TVs in 2026Major TV manufacturers are pursuing distinct strategies in 2026, with LG doubling down on OLED technology while competitors like Samsung, TCL, and Hisense heavily promote RGB LED TVs as the next breakthrough display technology. TCL is aggressively moving into the premium market through a joint venture with Sony, while Vizio is attempting a comeback in the budget segment with new mini-LED offerings.Read more →
The Verge...Claude has been having a moment — can it keep it up?Anthropic's Claude Code has surged in popularity since the holidays, with the company releasing Opus 4.6 as a direct upgrade featuring improved speed and agentic capabilities. The platform's success is driven by strong real-world adoption, developer loyalty built through superior user experience and customization features, and Anthropic's reputation as a more stable alternative to competitors facing public trust challenges.Read more →
The Verge...Anthropic debuts new model with hopes to corner the market beyond codingAnthropic has released Opus 4.6, the latest version of its flagship Claude model. This update represents an advancement in the Claude AI model family.Read more →
CNET...Fitbit Co-Founders Launch Luffu, AI-Powered Health Tracking for the Whole FamilyFitbit co-founders James Park and Eric Friedman launched Luffu, an AI-powered family health management platform that centralizes medical records, appointments, test results, medications, and vital signs in one app. The platform uses machine learning to detect health changes, alert families to potential concerns, and integrates with third-party health apps and wearables while prioritizing privacy and security for sensitive medical data.Read more →
Engadget...Get two years of access to Proton VPN for 70 percent off right nowProton VPN is offering a significant promotion on its Plus subscription at $2.99 per month ($72 for 24 months), representing a 70 percent discount. The service is recognized for strong privacy protections, nonprofit ownership, fast real-world speeds, and comprehensive security features including access to 15,000+ servers across 120+ countries with support for up to 10 simultaneous devices.Read more →
TechCrunch...Anthropic releases Opus 4.6 with new ‘agent teams’Anthropic released Opus 4.6, featuring agent teams that enable parallel task distribution across multiple AI agents, a 1 million token context window matching Sonnet models, and direct PowerPoint integration as a side panel. These enhancements expand the model's capabilities for handling larger codebases, complex documents, and collaborative workflows while making Claude more accessible within enterprise productivity tools.Read more →
Engadget...JLab's comically oversized headphones are not an April Fool's PrankJLab released oversized Blue XL headphones that function as Bluetooth speakers, featuring 30W power, dual 2.5-inch drivers and radiators, and approximately 20 hours of battery life. The unconventional design is intended to be worn around the neck or placed on surfaces for shared audio playback rather than traditional personal listening.Read more →
Engadget...NVIDIA reportedly won't release new graphics cards this yearNVIDIA is delaying its RTX 50 graphics card update in 2026, marking the first time in three decades the company hasn't released new gaming chips annually. The shift reflects AI's dominance in NVIDIA's business, with gaming revenue declining from 35% to 8% of total revenue while AI chips offer superior 65% profit margins amid ongoing memory chip shortages.Read more →
TechCrunch...Secondary sales shift from founder windfalls to employee-retention toolsAI-powered startups like Clay, Linear, and ElevenLabs are increasingly offering secondary stock sales (tender offers) to employees at rising valuations, enabling staff to convert paper gains into cash. While this differs favorably from the 2021 founder-focused payout era, the trend could reduce liquidity returns for venture investors and extend private company timelines, potentially creating challenges for the venture ecosystem.Read more →
Gizmodo...Daring Theory Challenges the Black Hole’s Reign Over the Milky Way’s CoreA new study published in Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society proposes that a dense core of dark matter, rather than the supermassive black hole Sagittarius A*, may be the dominant gravitational force controlling stellar orbits at the Galactic Center. Computer simulations show the dark matter model's predictions differ by less than 1% from the black hole model and better explain certain observations of the Milky Way, though the researchers acknowledge further evidence is needed to challenge the established black hole theory.Read more →
TechCrunch...Meta tests a standalone app for its AI-generated ‘Vibes’ videosMeta is testing a standalone Vibes app to expand its AI-generated video platform, which previously existed within the Meta AI app. The move positions Vibes as a direct competitor to OpenAI's Sora, with plans to introduce freemium subscriptions offering additional monthly video creation capabilities.Read more →
Gizmodo...Adafruit Warns New Ghost Gun Laws Could Have Unintended Consequences for 3D PrintersU.S. states including Washington and New York are introducing legislation to prevent 3D-printed ghost guns by requiring 3D printers to include blocking technology that scans files against firearms blueprint detection algorithms. Open-source hardware company Adafruit criticized these measures as misguided and overly broad, arguing they would burden legitimate users, stifle innovation, and require proprietary cloud services while failing to stop determined actors.Read more →
Engadget...The best tech gifts and cool gadgets for 2026This article is a gift guide featuring various consumer technology products across multiple categories including audio devices, drones, power banks, smart home gadgets, gaming peripherals, and musical instruments. Each product is reviewed for its features, usability, and value proposition to help consumers select appropriate tech gifts for different recipients and use cases.Read more →
CNET...Apple Watch Series 11 vs. Series 10: How These 2 Almost-Identical Watches CompareApple released the Watch Series 11 with the same starting price as Series 10, featuring improved battery life up to 24 hours and 5G connectivity support in cellular models, while maintaining identical processors and sensors. The main upgrade is enhanced battery performance through software optimizations and a redesigned antenna, along with more recycled materials in the titanium model.Read more →
Gizmodo...‘Starfleet Academy’ Just Threaded the Needle on a Near-Perfect Tribute to ‘Deep Space Nine’Starfleet Academy boldly revisits Captain Benjamin Sisko's legacy through a new character's journey, exploring what the beloved Deep Space Nine captain left behind through bonds of love and human connection rather than his role as an Emissary. The episode, featuring appearances from original cast members, demonstrates how one generation of Starfleet heroes can profoundly impact another across centuries, celebrating themes of personal identity and relationships over duty.Read more →
Gizmodo...The College Board Is Banning Students From Using Smart Glasses During the SATsThe College Board has banned smart glasses during SAT testing due to their potential use as cheating tools, citing their ability to access AI chatbots, cameras, and voice assistants that could provide unauthorized answers. While the ban addresses a real threat, enforcement challenges remain as many smart glasses are difficult to distinguish from regular eyewear.Read more →
The Verge...Here’s what Xbox is working on for 2026Microsoft is focusing on revitalizing Xbox in 2026, its 25-year milestone year, with major releases of Forza Horizon 6, Halo: Campaign Evolved, Fable, and Gears of War scheduled throughout the year. The company is also advancing its hardware and software strategy through next-gen controllers with cloud gaming optimization, AI-powered features on Xbox Ally devices, and plans for a unified Xbox experience across consoles, PC, and cloud platforms, with next-generation console hardware expected in 2027.Read more →
The Verge...Why Waymo is having a hard time time stopping for school busesWaymo's autonomous vehicles have failed to properly stop for school buses in at least 24 documented incidents in Austin since the 2025 school year began, prompting NHTSA investigations and raising concerns about the company's shift toward end-to-end machine learning. The incidents culminated in a vehicle striking a child in California, highlighting risks as Waymo pursues more aggressive driving behavior while refusing to pause operations around schools despite requests from Austin ISD.Read more →
CNET...Americans Plan to Spend $1,177 on a New TV. Here's How to Do It for Less in Time for the Super BowlCNET survey reveals US adults plan to spend an average of $1,177 on a new TV, with 72% prioritizing picture quality and 37% seeking larger screens. The analysis provides expert guidance on TV selection, highlighting that contrast and brightness are more important than color, and OLED TVs offer the best picture quality for budgets over $1,000.Read more →
TechCrunch...Pacific Fusion finds a cheaper way to make its fusion reactor workPacific Fusion announced experimental results from Sandia National Laboratory demonstrating a cost-reduction approach for pulser-driven inertial confinement fusion that eliminates expensive preheating components. By redesigning the fuel pellet casing and adjusting electrical current delivery, the company can leverage magnetic field leakage for fuel preheating, potentially removing laser systems costing over $100 million and significantly improving the economic viability of commercial fusion power plants targeting deployment in the early to mid-2030s.Read more →
Engadget...Are VPNs legal?VPNs are legal in most countries, but their status is increasingly under threat as governments worldwide restrict internet access. While authoritarian regimes like China, Russia, and Iran tightly control VPN usage, some traditionally free democracies including the UK, France, and several US states are now proposing VPN bans as part of broader age verification legislation.Read more →
CNET...When to Catch Bad Bunny's Super Bowl Halftime Show and the PreshowBad Bunny, the world's most-streamed artist, will headline the Super Bowl LX halftime show on February 8, 2026, at Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara, California. The event will feature performances from Green Day, Charlie Puth, Brandi Carlile, and Coco Jones during pre-game ceremonies, with multilingual and ASL interpretation throughout the broadcast available on NBC, Peacock, Telemundo, and Universo.Read more →
Gizmodo...Science Discovers a New Destiny for Your Old MattressResearchers have developed a heat-resistant insulation material by integrating shredded mattress foam with the fungus Penicillium chrysogenum, creating a sustainable building insulation that performs comparably to commercial products. This innovation addresses the significant waste problem of discarded mattresses, with millions ending up in landfills annually, while offering a practical solution to keep bulky waste out of the economy and reduce environmental impact.Read more →
Engadget...How to use your Apple Watch to precisely find your new AirTagApple's new Precision Finding feature for AirTags on Apple Watch Series 9 and later requires watchOS 11.2.1 and involves counterintuitive setup steps, with the feature accessible through Control Center rather than the Find Items app. The guide clarifies the exact configuration process to help users locate tagged items with directional guidance and distance indicators.Read more →
CNET...Review: Finally, an Air Fryer Pretty Enough to Show Off on Your Kitchen CounterCosori's new Iconic air fryer combines premium stainless-steel design with solid cooking performance, featuring a 6.5-quart capacity, smart home integration via VeSync app, and a five-year warranty. While the $249 price point positions it in the premium category, most users would likely find comparable performance in air fryers costing $100-200 less.Read more →
Engadget...Valheim is coming to Switch 2 this yearValheim, the Norse mythology-inspired survival game, is expanding to Nintendo Switch 2 this year following its fifth anniversary celebration. The game supports up to 10-player online co-op in a procedurally generated world where players craft gear, build shelters, and defeat gods to reach Valhalla, with the Switch 2 version featuring mouse controls and HD Rumble 2 support.Read more →
CNET...Amazon Deals of the Day: My All-Time Favorite Headphones Are Over Half OffThis article highlights three major tech deals currently available on Amazon: Beats Studio Pro headphones at 51% off ($170 from $350), a Roku 65-inch Smart TV at a record low of $348 (down $90), and the Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 discounted by $90 to $260. All three products are popular consumer electronics with strong reviews, offering significant savings for those looking to upgrade their tech setup.Read more →
CNET...Best 7 TVs I've Tested in February 2026CNET reviews and recommends the best TVs for 2026, including high-end OLED models like Samsung S90F and S95F, and budget-friendly options like Hisense QD7QF. The guide covers key factors such as picture quality, screen size, price, and smart TV systems to help consumers choose the right TV for their needs.Read more →
The Verge...Nvidia's RTX 50-series Super refresh is delayed, and the RTX 60-series might miss 2027Nvidia is allocating its limited RAM supply primarily to AI applications rather than gaming products, reflecting the company's strategic focus on the higher-demand AI market. This prioritization underscores the competitive pressure and resource constraints in the semiconductor industry as AI adoption accelerates.Read more →
The Verge...PlayStation’s live service push continues with a co-op Horizon spinoffHorizon Hunters Gathering is a multiplayer game that supports cooperative play with two friends on PlayStation 5 and PC platforms. The game enables shared gaming experiences across these major console and computer systems.Read more →
Engadget...Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth comes to Switch 2 on June 3Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth is launching on Nintendo Switch 2 on June 3, alongside Xbox Series X/S releases, demonstrating the Switch 2's technical capabilities as a full port of the PS5 game. The release marks significantly faster multi-platform availability compared to the original remake, with the third installment rumored to arrive in 2027.Read more →
The Verge...Game consoles built streaming — until it outgrew themHulu is discontinuing support for its Nintendo Switch app while Netflix is ending support for PlayStation 3, marking the end of service for these older gaming platforms. These moves reflect companies' shift away from legacy hardware as they focus resources on newer devices and streaming technologies.Read more →
The Verge...Peloton’s gamble on expensive new hardware has yet to pay offPeloton's refreshed product lineup failed to gain traction among its existing subscriber base, as revealed during the company's earnings call. This underperformance highlights challenges in retaining customers and driving engagement within its core user community.Read more →
Engadget...Guerrilla reveals Horizon Hunters Gathering, a co-op action spin-off for PS5 and PCGuerrilla Games has announced Horizon Hunters Gathering, a co-op action game for PlayStation 5 and PC that lets players team up to hunt machines in a Monster Hunter-style experience. The game features tactical, skill-based combat across multiple modes, roguelite progression, and a canonical narrative campaign that will expand over time.Read more →
Gizmodo...Researchers Are Basically Inceptioning Lucid Dreamers With Brain TeasersNorthwestern University researchers used "dream engineering" techniques to guide lucid dreamers to dream about unsolved puzzles, finding that those who incorporated puzzles into their dreams solved them at a 42% rate compared to 17% for non-incorporated dreams. This novel approach demonstrates that dream content can be experimentally manipulated and provides evidence supporting the long-held idea that sleep and dreaming can facilitate creative problem-solving and insight.Read more →
CNET...I Tested 2026's Best Budget TVs Head-to-Head, and This TV Was Shockingly GoodA comprehensive review comparing smart TV interfaces (Roku, Fire TV, and Samsung) and their performance across picture quality, sound, and features. The Hisense emerged as the best performer for contrast and shadow detail, though Fire TV excelled in audio quality and user interface design, while budget TV shoppers should prioritize screen size and smart TV operating system choice over advanced features.Read more →
Gizmodo...The First Trailer for Game Adaptation ‘Exit 8’ Is Seriously CreepyExit 8, a film adaptation of the viral video game of the same name, follows a protagonist trapped in an infinite subway loop who must identify anomalies to escape. Directed by Genki Kawamura, the film premiered at Cannes and other major festivals and is scheduled for U.S. theatrical release on April 10.Read more →
The Verge...@KamalaHQ is relaunching as a Gen Z ‘progressive content hub’Kamala Harris relaunched her Gen-Z focused social media strategy through a rebranded account called @headquarters_67, partnering with digital agencies to share progressive content ahead of midterm elections. The new account emphasizes internet culture and memes while maintaining Harris' role as 'chair emerita,' though early posts focus primarily on criticizing Donald Trump rather than substantive policy discussion.Read more →
TechCrunch...Trump’s critical mineral reserve is an admission that the future is electricThe Trump administration announced Project Vault, an $11.7 billion critical minerals stockpile initiative aimed at reducing U.S. dependence on China for materials essential to electric vehicles, wind turbines, and other modern technologies. The move follows recent equity investments in rare earth producers and reflects an implicit acknowledgment that the future economy will be heavily dependent on clean energy and electric technologies, with demand expected to grow significantly over the coming decades.Read more →
Gizmodo...This Video of Hilariously Slow Robots Putting Olive Oil in a Bag Is Actually Pretty ImpressiveHumanoid, a UK robotics company, demonstrated KinetIQ, an AI-coordinated system enabling autonomous humanoid robots to perform complex tasks without teleoperation or pre-programming. The deliberately slow movements showcase genuine autonomous decision-making rather than choreographed routines, representing a significant technical achievement but highlighting the gap between current capabilities and industry promises of factory-ready humanoid robots.Read more →
The Verge...Why is the Trump administration really appealing its Meta loss?The FTC announced an appeal of its loss in the antitrust case against Meta after a federal judge ruled the company was not an illegal monopolist, citing TikTok's emergence as a competitive threat. The agency's subsequent attack on Judge Boasberg's record has raised concerns among legal experts about whether the appeal is driven by institutional merit or political motivations aligned with the Trump administration.Read more →
TechCrunch...Data breach at govtech giant Conduent balloons, affecting millions more AmericansA January 2025 ransomware attack on government contractor Conduent has affected far more people than initially disclosed, with at least 15.4 million in Texas alone and millions more across other states. The breach exposed sensitive personal data including names, Social Security numbers, and health insurance information from individuals using government healthcare programs.Read more →
Engadget...Substack CEO informs users of a data breachSubstack disclosed a security breach in October 2025 where unauthorized third parties accessed user email addresses and phone numbers, with the company becoming aware on February 3. Credit card numbers and passwords were not compromised, and the company has addressed the vulnerabilities while conducting a full investigation.Read more →
Gizmodo...Google Shows Off Pixel 10a With No Camera BumpGoogle is launching the Pixel 10a midrange phone on February 18 with a potentially flush camera bump design and expected pricing around $500. The phone will likely feature the older Tensor G4 chip and similar dual-lens camera system as the Pixel 9a, with messaging focused on AI features like Magic Cue and photo editing capabilities rather than hardware upgrades.Read more →
The Verge...JLab’s new Bluetooth speaker doubles as supersized headphonesJLab has released the Blue XL Speaker Headphones, oversized Bluetooth speakers designed to be worn like headphones with 2.5-inch drivers in each ear cup and up to 20 hours of battery life. The unconventional device functions as both wearable audio and a standalone speaker, priced at $99.99 and available exclusively in blue.Read more →
Gizmodo...Surprise, a Lego ‘Project Hail Mary’ Set Is on the WayLego has announced an 830-piece set based on the upcoming 2026 film Project Hail Mary, featuring a buildable version of the Hail Mary spacecraft with a rotating display stand and movable crew module that demonstrates the ship's centrifugal gravity system. The set includes minifigures of astronaut Ryland Grace and an alien character, and will be released on March 1 for $100.Read more →
Engadget...Fallout 4 and Indiana Jones and the Great Circle get Switch 2 release datesBethesda Game Studios announced several titles coming to Nintendo Switch 2 this year, including Fallout 4: Anniversary Edition launching February 24, Indiana Jones and the Great Circle on May 12, and The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered later in the year. The announcements were made by Todd Howard during Nintendo's Direct Partner Showcase, marking significant ports of major franchises to the new console.Read more →
TechCrunch...Fundamental raises $255 million Series A with a new take on big data analysisFundamental, an AI lab, has emerged from stealth with a $1.2 billion valuation and $255 million in funding to introduce Nexus, a Large Tabular Model (LTM) designed to analyze structured data at enterprise scale. Unlike transformer-based LLMs that struggle with massive datasets, Nexus uses a deterministic, non-transformer architecture to handle billions of rows of data, enabling enterprises to consolidate multiple use cases into a single model.Read more →
The Verge...Reality is losing the deepfake warThis article discusses the failure of C2PA (Content Credentials), a metadata labeling system designed to authenticate images and videos, in addressing the crisis of AI-generated and manipulated content flooding social media. Despite adoption by major players like Adobe, Meta, Microsoft, and OpenAI, C2PA has proven ineffective because platforms strip metadata during uploads, lack unified implementation, and creators resist AI labels that diminish perceived value. The conversation suggests that without regulatory intervention and fundamental shifts in how platforms handle content verification, labeling systems alone cannot restore trust in digital media.Read more →
TechCrunch...Substack confirms data breach affects users’ email addresses and phone numbersSubstack disclosed a data breach in which an unauthorized third party accessed user email addresses, phone numbers, and internal metadata in October, though sensitive data like credit cards and passwords remained secure. The company identified the issue in February and has since fixed it, but took five months to detect the breach and has not disclosed the number of affected users or the specific vulnerability.Read more →
The Verge...Nintendo reveals an impressive Switch 2 lineup with Indiana Jones, Fallout 4, FF7 Rebirth, and moreNintendo's latest Direct presentation showcased an exclusive lineup of third-party games, highlighting the company's commitment to supporting independent and external developers on its platform.Read more →
CNET...Puppy Bowl 2026: How to Watch and Stream the Furry ShowdownPuppy Bowl XXII will air on February 8, 2026, featuring 150 dogs from 72 shelters competing across multiple networks including HBO Max, Discovery Plus, and Animal Planet. The three-hour event includes play-by-play commentary, special needs dogs, senior dog exhibitions, and celebrity appearances.Read more →
Gizmodo...A Giant, 10 Skulls, and Rope-Bound Corpses: This Viking-Era ‘Execution Pit’ Has Stories to TellCambridge University archaeologists discovered a mass grave in Cambridgeshire containing at least ten individuals dating to 772-891 CE, showing evidence of violent death including beheadings and possible execution. The pit, found at Wandlebury Country Park, likely relates to conflicts between Saxon and Viking forces during a turbulent period when the region was a frontier zone between rival kingdoms.Read more →
TechCrunch...ElevenLabs CEO: Voice is the next interface for AIElevenLabs' CEO argues that voice is becoming the primary interface for AI interaction, moving beyond text and screens as models integrate emotional intonation with large language model reasoning. The company's $11 billion valuation reflects industry-wide recognition that voice will be central to AI deployment across wearables, phones, and other hardware, with ElevenLabs developing hybrid cloud-on-device solutions to support always-on voice capabilities.Read more →
Engadget...A potential Starlink competitor just got FCC clearance to launch 4,000 satellitesLogos Space Services has received FCC approval to launch over 4,000 broadband satellites into low Earth orbit by 2035, with 2,000 satellites required within seven years. Founded by former NASA and Google executive Milo Medin, the company plans to compete with Starlink by providing high-speed broadband to global customers including government and enterprise users, with first satellite deployment targeted for 2027.Read more →
Engadget...How to watch the Opening Ceremony at the 2026 Milan Cortina Winter OlympicsThe 2026 Milan Cortina Winter Olympics Opening Ceremony takes place Friday, February 6th, featuring performances by Mariah Carey and Andrea Bocelli, along with nearly 3,000 athletes in the Parade of Nations. The three-hour event will be broadcast live on NBC from 2-5 p.m. ET with a primetime re-air at 8 p.m. ET, and can be streamed on Peacock and NBC.com.Read more →
CNET...Trust Me: Don't Get the Galaxy S25 Ultra. Buy a Galaxy S24 Ultra InsteadThe Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra offers nearly identical performance to the S25 Ultra at a significantly lower price, with comparable cameras, battery life, and software features that make the previous generation an excellent value proposition. Real-world performance differences are negligible for most users, making the used S24 Ultra a smart purchasing choice over the much more expensive current flagship model.Read more →
Gizmodo...The Memory Shortage Has Come for Valve’s Steam MachineValve has delayed its Steam hardware announcements (Steam Machine, Steam Frame VR headset, and Steam Controller) by several months due to soaring memory component costs, with RAM prices up 500% and SSDs experiencing regular increases. The company aims to ship all three products in the first half of 2026 but needs to revisit pricing; the Steam Machine is still expected to handle most Steam titles at 4K and 60 fps using AMD's FSR upscaling technology.Read more →
Engadget...The Sony WH-1000XM6 headphones drop to a record-low priceThe Sony WH-1000XM6 wireless headphones are now available at $398, marking their lowest price with a $62 discount since launch. These premium headphones feature advanced active noise cancellation with 12 microphones, exceptional sound quality from new audio drivers, and 30-hour battery life, making them a compelling upgrade for wireless audio enthusiasts.Read more →
Gizmodo...Disney’s New Era Could Bring Back ‘Pirates of the Caribbean’ in a Major WayThis entertainment news roundup covers multiple film and television projects including Pirates of the Caribbean's reimagining with Margot Robbie, horror productions like The Exorcist: Martyr and Rule of Three, and Marvel updates with Chris Evans' surprise return in Avengers: Doomsday. Notable cast additions and production announcements span multiple genres from sci-fi thrillers to supernatural dramas.Read more →
CNET...40 of the Best Movies on Netflix You Should Stream NowThis is a CNET article highlighting 40 recommended movies available on Netflix, including Oscar-nominated films like Frankenstein and Train Dreams, as well as popular titles spanning multiple genres from classic dramas to action thrillers. The article serves as a viewing guide for Netflix subscribers seeking entertainment recommendations across diverse film categories.Read more →
EngadgetEngadget...Amazon Germany fined $70 million for 'influencing' third-party Marketplace pricingGermany's Federal Cartel Office has prohibited Amazon from using price control mechanisms against third-party marketplace sellers, finding the practice anti-competitive since Amazon also operates its own retail business. The company must cease removing or demoting seller listings deemed overpriced, with violations potentially forcing sellers out of the marketplace and allowing Amazon to control platform pricing. Amazon faces a $70 million fine and has pledged to appeal the ruling.Read more →
Engadget...What the hell is Moltbook, the social network for AI agents?Moltbook is a Reddit-like social network populated entirely by AI agents, created by startup founder Matt Schlicht using OpenClaw bots. While the platform has gained significant attention for viral posts from AI agents discussing consciousness and creating fictional religions, much of the content's authenticity is questionable, with security researchers identifying major vulnerabilities including exposed API tokens and spam.Read more →
EngadgetEngadget...ExpressVPN launches four new standalone appsExpressVPN is launching a comprehensive cybersecurity suite with four standalone products: ExpressKeys (password manager), ExpressMailGuard (masked email relay), ExpressAI (encrypted AI platform), and Identity Defender (identity threat monitoring). The products are integrated into ExpressVPN's existing subscription tiers, with ExpressKeys and ExpressMailGuard already available, Identity Defender launching February 26 for U.S. customers, and ExpressAI's launch delayed for refinement.Read more →
The Verge...Can I offer you a tiny Bluetooth speaker in these trying times?A review of the Ikea Vappeby Bluetooth speaker, a $16 portable device with IP67 water resistance and USB-C charging that offers decent sound quality for small spaces. The author recommends it as an affordable gadget that provides comfort and ambiance during stressful times, emphasizing its durability, portability, and value despite modest audio performance.Read more →
The Verge...Senators ask Meta why it waited so long to make teen accounts private by defaultLawmakers have expressed concerns regarding allegations that Meta was aware its platforms caused harm to users. These concerns highlight ongoing regulatory scrutiny over the company's responsibility in user safety and potential knowledge of negative platform impacts.Read more →
The Verge...OpenAI Frontier is a single platform to control your AI agentsManaging humans is hard. Managing AI agents is… also hard. That's why OpenAI is launching a new platform called OpenAI Frontier, which it says will help businesses "build, deploy, and manage" AI agents, even those not made by OpenAI itself. OpenAI's description of Frontier sounds something like HR for AI. "Frontier gives agents the same […]Read more →
CNET...ExpressVPN’s New Privacy-Focused AI and Email Protection Features Could Be Game-ChangersExpressVPN announced a major expansion of its privacy and security offerings, introducing ExpressAI (a privacy-first AI platform with zero-knowledge architecture), ExpressMailGuard (an email alias tool), and standalone versions of Keys password manager and Identity Defender. These new tools maintain end-to-end encryption and zero-training guarantees without any price increase to existing subscription tiers.Read more →
CNET...Amazon's Alexa Plus Confounds Chris Hemsworth in Super Bowl Ad as the AI Tool LaunchesAmazon has fully rolled out Alexa Plus, an AI-powered voice assistant upgrade that offers improved conversational abilities and third-party app integrations like Uber and Ticketmaster. The service is available in a free tier, as a Prime member benefit ($15/month), or as a standalone subscription ($20/month), with Amazon promoting the launch through a Super Bowl advertisement featuring Chris Hemsworth.Read more →
The Verge...Tesla hit with another wrongful death suit over its electronic door handlesThe mother of 20-year-old man who died after becoming trapped in his burning Tesla Model Y is suing the company over its electronic door handles. It's the latest wrongful death case centering on Tesla's door handles, which have triggered numerous customer complaints over the years and is now under investigation by the federal safety regulators. […]Read more →
CNET...Don't Serve Greasy Wings: 5 Dietitian-Approved Air Fryer Super Bowl RecipesAir fryers offer a healthier alternative to traditional deep frying by using minimal oil while maintaining crispy textures, making them ideal for preparing quick and nutritious Super Bowl party foods. Registered dietitians recommend air fryer recipes including salmon, vegetable chips, chicken, roasted vegetables, and sweet potato fries, which retain more nutrients and reduce excess fat and calories compared to conventional frying methods.Read more →
EngadgetEngadget...TurboTax Deluxe is on sale for only $45 ahead of tax seasonWith the government's Direct File program discontinued, TurboTax remains the primary paid tax filing option for most Americans in 2026. Amazon is currently offering a 44% discount on TurboTax Deluxe ($35 off), making it a more affordable choice for individual filers, while self-employed users can get the Business version at 42% off.Read more →
CNET...The Absolute Best Horror Movies on HuluHulu offers a diverse selection of horror films including acclaimed titles like Barbarian, Don't Breathe, and 28 Weeks Later. The streaming service features various horror subgenres ranging from slashers and post-apocalyptic thrillers to psychological horror, providing options for different viewer preferences.Read more →
EngadgetEngadget...Valve pushes back Steam Machine launch due to storage and memory shortageValve has delayed the announcement of pricing and launch dates for its Steam Machine console, which was expected in early 2026, citing industry-wide memory and storage shortages exacerbated by AI infrastructure demands. The Steam Frame VR headset and controller releases are also delayed, though Valve remains committed to launching the Steam Machine in the first half of 2026 once component availability stabilizes.Read more →
Engadget...Get one month of the Disney+ and Hulu bundle for only $10Disney+ is offering a promotional deal for new and eligible returning subscribers to access the Disney+ and Hulu bundle with ads for $10 for one month, representing a $3 discount from the regular $13 monthly price. While this is less aggressive than last year's Black Friday offer of $5 per month for a year, it remains a viable option for those interested in sampling both services' combined content libraries of family-friendly and adult-oriented programming.Read more →
CNET...I Listened to My Own Heart and Lungs With the 'Thermometer of the Future'Withings BeamO is a multi-function health device combining a thermometer, digital stethoscope, and ECG monitor in a single handheld unit priced at $250. The device syncs with a mobile app and enables telehealth users to record heart and lung sounds for physician review, with optional cardiologist evaluation available through a paid subscription service.Read more →
CNET...Want to Try Film Photography? These Are the Best Analog Cameras to BuyFilm photography is experiencing a resurgence in popularity driven by social media interest, offering photographers a more deliberate, rewarding experience compared to digital photography. The article provides a comprehensive guide to getting started with film, covering camera selection (point-and-shoot, vintage SLRs, modern SLRs), film stock choices, and where to purchase reliable equipment from reputable dealers.Read more →
Gizmodo...The ‘Eragon’ Dragon Fantasy Series Is Still Alive at Disney+Disney+ is moving forward with a series adaptation of Christopher Paolini's Eragon, the fantasy novel series that was previously adapted into a 2006 film that underperformed. The project now has showrunners Todd Harthan and Todd Helbing attached, along with executive producer Marc Webb, positioning it to capitalize on the current streaming fantasy boom similar to Disney+'s successful Percy Jackson adaptation.Read more →
Engadget...Sony's holiday PS5 sales dropped 16 percent compared to last yearSony shipped 8 million PS5 consoles in Q3, down 16% year-over-year, though the gaming division increased overall profit through higher software sales and favorable exchange rates. The company achieved record 132 million monthly active users on PlayStation Network with 97.2 million games sold, marking strong digital engagement despite hardware sales decline.Read more →
CNET...Best Solar-Powered Home Security Cameras for 2026This article reviews solar-powered home security cameras, highlighting their benefits for reducing battery replacement needs while maintaining surveillance capabilities. The piece evaluates six top models including Arlo Essential 2nd-Gen, Eufy SoloCam E30, and others, considering factors like video resolution, storage options, and smart home integration.Read more →
Engadget...How to stream the 2026 Super Bowl for free: Patriots vs. Seahawks time, where to watch and moreSuper Bowl LX between the New England Patriots and Seattle Seahawks airs on NBC and Peacock on February 8, 2026 at 6:30 p.m. ET from Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara. Bad Bunny will headline the halftime show, with multiple free streaming options available including NBC, Telemundo, DirecTV, and Hulu + Live TV.Read more →
TechCrunch...Google’s subscriptions rise in Q4 as YouTube pulls $60B in yearly revenueYouTube's subscription service grew to 325 million paying users, while ad revenue increased 9% to $11.38 billion in Q4, though it fell short of analyst expectations. The company plans to expand its subscription offerings with new YouTube TV packages and genre-specific options to capitalize on growing subscriber engagement.Read more →
Engadget...Surfshark VPN deal: Get up to 87 percent off two-year plansSurfshark is offering an 87-percent discount on its One plan bundle, reducing the price to $2.29 per month for the first 27 months while including VPN, antivirus, breach alerts, and private search features. The service has been tested and praised for delivering fast speeds, reliable streaming capability, and user-friendly design suitable for everyday security needs.Read more →
CNET...Spotify's Page Match Lets You Swap Between a Book and the AudiobookSpotify launched Page Match, a new premium feature that allows users to seamlessly switch between physical books or e-readers and audiobook versions by scanning printed text with their camera. The feature, rolling out to 22 countries, works with Spotify's 500,000-plus audiobook catalog and distinguishes itself from Amazon's Whispersync by supporting any physical book or e-reader, not just proprietary formats.Read more →
CNET...'AirTag 2' vs. 'AirTag 1': How Apple's New Model Surpasses the Trusty OriginalApple has released a second-generation AirTag with enhanced tracking capabilities, including an upgraded Ultra Wideband chip that extends detection range by 1.5 times and enables Apple Watch compatibility for Precision Finding. The new model maintains the same $29 or $99 price point as the original while featuring improved Bluetooth range, a louder speaker, and a new chime design, though physical appearance remains nearly identical to the first generation.Read more →
CNET...The Motorola Signature Is the Moto Phone I've Wanted for YearsMotorola has launched the Signature, a premium flagship smartphone that finally delivers competitive hardware and software to rival Galaxy and Pixel phones, featuring a 165Hz AMOLED display, Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 processor, impressive triple 50MP camera system, and seven years of software updates. Available in India at $660, it undercuts major competitors by $150+ while maintaining a slim 6.99mm design and offering improvements in camera quality and extended software support that have historically been Motorola's weak points.Read more →
CNET...There's a New Trend in Meal Kits, and I'm Completely ObsessedMeal kit services increasingly offer sheet-pan and one-pan recipes that simplify weeknight cooking by requiring minimal prep time and reducing overall cooking duration while maintaining quality home-cooked meals. These recipes, which cook entirely in a single pan or on a sheet pan, are nearly fool-proof and represent a cost-effective middle ground between restaurant dining and traditional grocery shopping.Read more →
Gizmodo...Behold, an Art Collection of Batman Nipples (and the Batman Chests They’re Attached To)Artist Adam Spizak has created 'The Crusader Collection,' a 10-poster series featuring iconic Batsuits from major Batman films, with each poster focusing on the chest emblem across different eras from 1966 to recent films. The posters, measuring 16x24 inches in limited editions of 75, are priced at $45 each or available in discounted sets, launching January 5 on Bottleneckgallery.com.Read more →
The Verge...Spotify’s Page Match syncs your audiobooks and your physical onesSpotify launched Page Match, a feature that uses computer vision to sync audiobooks with physical and e-books by matching text, allowing seamless transitions between formats. The capability works in both directions, with Spotify expanding its 500,000+ audiobook library and reporting 36% year-over-year growth in audiobook customers and 37% increase in listening hours.Read more →
The Verge...Spotify is partnering with Bookshop.org to sell physical booksSpotify is going all in on books in 2026 and partnering with Bookshop.org to let you buy physical copies of audiobooks and support local retailers starting in the Spring. The announcement dovetails with the launch of Page Match, a new feature that lets you sync physical books and ebooks with audiobooks in the Spotify app […]Read more →
TechCrunch...Spotify ventures into physical book sales, adds new audiobook featuresSpotify is expanding its audiobook business by adding physical book sales through a partnership with Bookshop.org, entering direct competition with Amazon and Barnes & Noble. The platform is also introducing Page Match, a feature that uses computer vision to let users scan physical book pages and jump to the corresponding spot in the audiobook, and bringing Audiobook Recaps to Android devices.Read more →
Engadget...Spotify's Page Match seamlessly swaps between real books and audiobooksSpotify is launching Page Match, a feature that syncs reading progress across physical books and audiobooks using camera scanning and optical character recognition. The company is also partnering with Bookshop.org to allow users to purchase physical books directly through its app, while expanding its audiobook recap feature to Android.Read more →
Gizmodo...NASA’s Artemis 2 Will Test Human Health in Deep Space Like Never BeforeNASA's Artemis 2 mission will serve as a crucial research opportunity to study how the human body responds to deep space radiation, microgravity, and isolation during a 10-day lunar journey. Astronauts will participate in multiple biomedical studies including real-time health monitoring, saliva sampling, and groundbreaking 'organ chip' technology that simulates human tissue responses in space, generating data essential for protecting astronaut health on future lunar and Mars missions.Read more →
Gizmodo...RoboCop Gets a Little Too Real in DetroitDearborn, Michigan is launching a first-in-state drone program with Skydio that will deploy unmanned aerial vehicles to emergency scenes within 2.5 minutes, providing real-time footage to law enforcement before officers arrive. The initiative aims to improve decision-making, reduce response times, and decrease use-of-force incidents by allowing police to assess situations remotely before engaging.Read more →
CNET...The Secret Meaning Behind Kitchen Sponge ColorsKitchen sponges use a color-coding system to indicate their intended use and abrasiveness level, helping prevent scratches and cross-contamination. Green sponges are multipurpose, yellow for delicate surfaces, blue for glass and stainless steel, red/pink for high-bacterial areas, and black for heavy-duty scrubbing, creating a systematic approach to household hygiene and appliance protection.Read more →
CNET...Best Wireless Home Security Cameras of 2026: Battery BenefitsCNET provides a comprehensive guide to battery-powered wireless security cameras, reviewing top models including the Blink Outdoor 2K Plus, Google Nest cameras, and Arlo options. The article details key factors to consider such as smart home compatibility, battery life, motion detection capabilities, and privacy features, along with testing methodology and recent industry trends focused on AI object recognition.Read more →
The Verge...Substack data breach exposed users’ emails and phone numbersSubstack disclosed a security incident from October 2025 where hackers accessed user email addresses and phone numbers without authorization, though passwords and financial data remained secure. The company has fixed the vulnerability and is conducting a full investigation while recommending users remain cautious about suspicious communications.Read more →
Engadget...The best fast chargers for 2026Fast chargers have become essential as multiple devices compete for power outlets, with modern chargers offering multi-port designs that intelligently distribute power across phones, laptops, and wearables. Key considerations when choosing a fast charger include the number of devices to charge, their power requirements, travel needs, and compatibility with standards like USB Power Delivery, with GaN technology enabling more compact and efficient designs.Read more →
Gizmodo...Wall Street Apparently Believes the Future Involves Making Your Software Instead of Buying ItAnthropic's release of a Legal plugin for Claude Cowork has sparked significant stock sell-offs in software companies, with investors viewing AI tools as potential replacements for specialized software solutions. This trend reflects a broader shift where companies may reduce spending on dedicated professional software, instead relying on employees to build solutions using AI assistants, potentially degrading workplace tool quality.Read more →
Engadget...The best cameras for 2026The article reviews cameras launched in 2025 and provides guidance on selecting the right camera based on photography and videography needs. Key considerations include mirrorless cameras dominating the market as DSLRs are discontinued, sensor size affecting image quality and cost, autofocus capabilities, display quality, and video recording specifications for different use cases.Read more →
Engadget...Canon unveils a Limited Edition version of its popular G7 X III compact cameraCanon unveiled a Limited Edition PowerShot G7 X III compact camera in graphite to commemorate the 30-year anniversary of the company's first digital camera, maintaining the same specs as the 2018 original model but adding luxury touches and a 30-year logo. The camera, priced at $1,299 and shipping in April 2026, includes a Peak Design wrist strap and 32GB SD card, while Canon also introduced two new RF-mount lenses: an ultra-wide 14mm f/1.4 prime and a 7-14mm f/2.8-3.5 fisheye zoom.Read more →
CNET...Today's NYT Connections: Sports Edition Hints and Answers for Feb. 5, #500This article provides hints and solutions for today's Connections: Sports Edition puzzle, a sports-themed word game published by The Athletic and available through their app or online. The puzzle features four difficulty levels with themes related to football positions, baseball's 500-homer club, quarterbacks who threw 500 touchdowns, and various entities associated with the number 500.Read more →
Gizmodo...Google’s Gemini 3 Release Won Over More Than 100 Million New Active UsersGoogle's Gemini AI app has surpassed 750 million monthly active users, a 100 million user increase in just three weeks following the successful Gemini 3 launch. The release of Gemini 3 triggered major industry shifts, including OpenAI declaring a 'code red' and spurring competitive responses from major tech companies like Apple and Samsung.Read more →
Gizmodo...Elon Musk Says ‘I Came to My Senses’ About Going to Epstein IslandFollowing the release of Epstein files in January, Elon Musk has been defending himself on X against allegations of involvement with Jeffrey Epstein, claiming he declined multiple invitations to Epstein's island. However, newly surfaced emails from 2012-2014 show Musk actively engaged in extended discussions about attending parties at Epstein's estate, raising questions about the credibility of his explanations and timeline of when he became aware of Epstein's criminal activities.Read more →
TechCrunch...Sam Altman got exceptionally testy over Claude Super Bowl adsAnthropic released Super Bowl advertisements mocking OpenAI's plan to introduce ads into ChatGPT's free tier, depicting ChatGPT inserting irrelevant advertisements into conversations. OpenAI CEO Sam Altman responded with a lengthy post defending the ad strategy while accusing Anthropic of being dishonest, authoritarian, and serving only wealthy users, despite both companies offering free tiers and implementing content policies.Read more →
The Verge...Valve’s Steam Machine has been delayed, and the RAM crisis will impact pricingValve announced it needs to revisit its shipping schedule and pricing plans for its hardware products, including the Steam Machine, Steam Frame, and Steam Controller. This suggests potential delays or cost adjustments to the company's hardware expansion strategy.Read more →
TechCrunch...As it preps Specs for the masses, Snap’s Q4 shows revenue growth but fewer daily usersSnap is diversifying revenue through subscriptions and hardware, reporting Q4 revenue of $1.7 billion with growing subscriber numbers for Snap+. The company faces challenges with declining daily active users in developed markets and lower-than-expected Q1 revenue forecasts, while preparing to launch Specs AR glasses later this year as part of its long-term augmented reality vision.Read more →
TechCrunch...Mundi Ventures closes on €750M for Kembara, its largest deep tech and climate fundMundi Ventures has closed €750 million for Kembara Fund I, a new €1.25 billion deep tech and climate startup fund targeting Series B and C rounds across Europe. The fund addresses Europe's growth capital shortage for scaling startups, with plans to write €15-40 million initial checks and support companies with non-dilutive financing and follow-on investments up to €100 million.Read more →
TechCrunch...Stripe alumni raise €30M Series A for Duna, backed by Stripe and Adyen execsDuna, a Stripe alumni-founded startup, raised €30 million in Series A funding to build a global business identity verification network, targeting the underserved long tail of enterprise clients. The company aims to create reusable digital identity credentials across platforms, with early traction in helping fintech companies streamline KYB (Know Your Business) onboarding while pursuing broader network effects.Read more →
CNET...Check Your CGM: Recalled FreeStyle Libre 3 Sensors Associated With 7 DeathsAbbott recalled certain FreeStyle Libre 3 and 3 Plus continuous glucose monitoring sensors due to incorrect glucose readings that are lower than actual levels, potentially leading to improper treatment decisions. As of January 7, the FDA classified it as a Class I recall after reporting 860 serious injuries and 7 deaths associated with the defective sensors.Read more →
TechCrunch...Alphabet won’t talk about the Google-Apple AI deal, even to investorsAlphabet declined to discuss its AI partnership with Apple during earnings, raising questions about how the deal impacts Google's core business model. The partnership, reportedly worth $1 billion annually to Apple, represents Google's growing bet on AI-powered services, though the monetization strategy remains unclear compared to traditional search advertising.Read more →
CNET...Pokemon, Ken-ergy and Other Super Bowl 2026 Ads You Can See Right NowThis article provides a comprehensive roundup of Super Bowl LX advertisements featuring major brands and celebrities. The commercials showcase various trends including AI-generated content, celebrity partnerships, and nostalgic themes, with notable ads from companies like Anthropic, Uber Eats, Pokemon, and others launching during the game.Read more →
CNET...I Played the 5 New Overwatch Heroes Dropping Next Week. Here Are My ThoughtsBlizzard is releasing five new Overwatch heroes in Season 1, featuring Jetpack Cat as a support hero with creative mobility abilities, Domina as a poke tank with deployable barriers, Mizuki as a high-skill support requiring close-range play, Anran as a flanker with fire-based mechanics, and Emre as a soldier-type damage dealer with flight and bombardment capabilities. The release coincides with a new year-long Reign of Talon narrative campaign.Read more →
CNET...I Played the 5 New Overwatch Heroes Dropping Next Week. Check Out the GameplayBlizzard released five new Overwatch heroes including Jetpack Cat, a creative support character with flight-based healing mechanics, Domina a ranged tank with barrier and crowd control abilities, and three damage/support heroes designed to enable new playstyles. The release marks the largest hero launch in Overwatch history and introduces a year-long Talon narrative storyline beginning with Season 1.Read more →
Gizmodo...I Really Hope the New ‘Ghost in the Shell’ Anime Keeps the Major’s Manga GoofinessA new Ghost in the Shell anime by Science Saru studio is set to premiere in July 2024, directed by Scott Pilgrim Takes Off's Toma Kimura. The adaptation aims to return the character Motoko Kusanagi to her original manga roots—portraying her as humorous and whimsical rather than the stoic, serious character depicted in previous adaptations.Read more →
TechCrunch...Google’s Gemini app has surpassed 750M monthly active usersGoogle's Gemini AI chatbot has reached 750 million monthly active users, demonstrating rapid consumer adoption and positioning itself as a major player in the AI market despite trailing ChatGPT. The growth is attributed to the launch of Gemini 3, an advanced model offering unprecedented depth and nuance, alongside new pricing strategies including a $7.99 monthly subscription tier to appeal to budget-conscious users.Read more →
CNET...These New AI Transcription Models Are Built for Speed and PrivacyMistral AI released new small transcription models, Voxtral Mini Transcribe 2 and Voxtral Realtime, designed to run directly on devices for enhanced privacy and reduced latency. These open-source models enable fast, on-device transcription with sub-200 millisecond latency while supporting 13 languages, allowing users to process sensitive conversations without sending data to external servers.Read more →
The Verge...Google's annual revenue tops $400 billion for the first timeAlphabet surpassed $400 billion in annual revenue for the first time, driven by a 15% year-over-year increase fueled by growth in Google Cloud ($70 billion run rate) and YouTube ($60 billion revenue). The company's Gemini AI app reached 750 million users following the November launch of Gemini 3, which will power a customized version of Apple's Siri, while Google Search usage reached record levels with AI Mode queries doubling since launch.Read more →
CNET...Best Budget Earbuds for 2026: Cheap Wireless PicksCNET provides guidance on selecting budget-friendly wireless earbuds under $100, emphasizing key considerations like fit, durability, noise cancellation, and voice quality. The article reviews top budget earbud models from brands like Earfun, Anker, and others, demonstrating that affordable earbuds can deliver competitive sound quality and features comparable to premium alternatives.Read more →
The Verge...Senators grill Waymo and Tesla over robotaxi safety, liability, and ChinaUS Senate held a hearing on autonomous vehicle regulation with executives from Waymo and Tesla, addressing safety concerns, liability issues, and competition with China. Despite discussions, lawmakers remain divided on whether to pass federal legislation governing self-driving cars, with key concerns including deceptive marketing practices, inadequate safety oversight, and questions about legal accountability.Read more →
TechCrunch...The Wayback Machine debuts a new plugin designed to fix the internet’s broken links problemThe Internet Archive and Automattic have launched a WordPress plugin called Link Fixer that combats link rot by scanning posts for broken links, automatically archiving them, and redirecting readers to cached versions when original pages go offline. The plugin maintains a dynamic system that reverts to original links if they return online, helping preserve content accessibility and prevent digital decay.Read more →
CNET...What Is Skimo, the New Sport at the 2026 Winter Olympics?Ski mountaineering (skimo) makes its Olympic debut at the 2026 Milano Cortina Winter Games as a new sport combining uphill climbing, boot packing, and downhill skiing. The sport features three medal events including men's and women's sprints on February 19 and a mixed relay on February 21, with France, Italy, and Switzerland as historical favorites, while the US team of Anna Gibson and Cam Smith will compete in the mixed relay.Read more →
Gizmodo...Zohran Mamdani Responds to Polymarket’s Free Grocery Store StuntPrediction market platforms Polymarket and Kalshi launched promotional free grocery giveaways in New York City, appearing to reference Mayor Zohran Mamdani's food affordability initiatives while strategically timing these marketing stunts amid legal scrutiny and negative press. The platforms face significant regulatory challenges in New York, including accusations of illegal betting operations and proposed legislation to ban political and sports wagers, making the consumer-friendly promotions part of a broader effort to rebuild their public image.Read more →
CNET...Fitbit Launches Luffu, AI-Powered Health Tracking for the Whole FamilyFitbit launched Luffu, an AI-powered family health management system that centralizes health records, appointments, medications, and vitals for multiple family members in a single app. The platform uses AI to learn family health patterns, provide medication reminders, and alert users to abnormal vitals, while integrating with third-party wearables and health portals to reduce the mental burden of family caregiving.Read more →
Gizmodo...You Won’t Believe What’s Stuck in This Deer’s Antlers—and It’s a 2026 People’s Choice FinalistA wildlife photography competition by the Natural History Museum of London features 24 finalists for the 2026 Nuveen People's Choice Award, showcasing dramatic moments from nature including predator-prey interactions, animal behavior, and conservation efforts across diverse ecosystems. The competition highlights both the beauty and brutality of wildlife, with public voting open until March 18 to determine the winner among entries spanning flamingos, bears, sloths, spiders, and other species.Read more →
Gizmodo...Somehow, I’d Never Heard of This Post-Apocalyptic Football MovieThe Blood of Heroes is a 1989 sci-fi sports film that has remained obscure despite featuring a creative post-apocalyptic sport with meticulous worldbuilding and rule systems. The movie, directed by David Webb Peoples and starring Rutger Hauer, demonstrates exceptional attention to detail in developing the fictional sport 'Jugger' while suffering from a basic plot that likely contributed to its limited cultural impact.Read more →
CNET...NASA Used AI to Drive Its Perseverance Mars Rover for the First TimeNASA's Jet Propulsion Lab successfully used Anthropic's Claude AI to plot navigation routes for the Perseverance rover on Mars for the first time, with the rover safely traveling nearly 1,500 feet across two demonstration drives in December. This application of AI for autonomous rover navigation could significantly increase exploration efficiency and science return by reducing operator workload and enabling faster response to challenging terrain on distant planets.Read more →
TechCrunch...Elon Musk’s SpaceX company town is getting a police departmentSpaceX's company town Starbase in South Texas has approved the creation of its own municipal police department with approximately eight officers, subject to state approval. The move comes after the city's contract with the county sheriff's office proved unsuccessful in providing adequate law enforcement coverage for the isolated settlement and its SpaceX operations.Read more →
TechCrunch...Meet Gizmo: a TikTok for interactive, vibe-coded mini appsGizmo is a new mobile app from startup Atma Sciences that lets users create interactive mini-applications using AI-powered natural language prompts, without requiring coding knowledge. The app displays these interactive creations in a TikTok-like vertical feed where users can play, interact with, and remix digital toys ranging from games to art to puzzles, and has experienced rapid growth with 600,000 installs in less than six months.Read more →
TechCrunch...AI SRE Resolve AI confirms $125M raise, unicorn valuationResolve AI, an SRE automation startup founded by former Splunk executives, raised $125 million in Series A funding at a $1 billion valuation led by Lightspeed Venture Partners. The company uses AI to automate system reliability engineering and troubleshooting, joining a growing category of AI-powered SRE solutions.Read more →
The Verge...Nintendo’s new Virtual Boy is more fun to look at than to playNintendo is reviving the Virtual Boy as a $100 Switch peripheral that lets players experience classic Virtual Boy games with improved comfort and no headaches. While the device successfully recreates the original's nostalgic appeal and makes these historically inaccessible games more available, the 3D technology feels dated compared to modern standards and may only appeal to dedicated retro enthusiasts already subscribed to Nintendo Switch Online.Read more →
CNET...AT&T's Turbo Live Cuts Through Cellular Congestion, and It'll Be Live for the Super BowlAT&T has launched Turbo Live, a paid cellular priority service available at major sports and concert venues, including Super Bowl LIX at Levi's Stadium. The service, which costs $7-$15 per event, works across carriers via a secondary eSIM on 5G phones and aims to reduce network congestion during high-attendance events.Read more →
Gizmodo...Gigantic Headphone Speakers Are the Goofiest Thing I’ve Ever SeenJLab has released the Blue XL, an oversized Bluetooth speaker designed to be worn around the neck or placed on surfaces rather than traditional headphones. The device features 30W of power, dual 2.5-inch drivers, 20 hours of battery life, and costs $99, making it a novelty portable speaker product notable for its unconventional form factor.Read more →
TechCrunch...Amazon to begin testing AI tools for film and TV production next monthAmazon MGM Studios is launching a closed beta program in March for its proprietary AI tools designed to streamline TV and film production by improving character consistency and automating pre- and post-production tasks. The initiative, developed in collaboration with industry creators like Robert Stromberg and former Pixar animator Colin Brady, aims to support creative teams and reduce costs while protecting intellectual property, with results expected by May.Read more →
Gizmodo...Will an Nvidia Laptop Even Matter?Nvidia is developing its first consumer CPUs, the N1 and N1X chips built with MediaTek, targeting laptops for productivity and gaming respectively. However, the company faces significant delays, with launches potentially pushed to summer 2026 or later due to Windows 11 compatibility issues and bugs, while competitors like Intel and AMD are already shipping capable alternatives.Read more →
Engadget...Bipartisan SCAM Act would require online platforms to crack down on fraudulent adsSenators Ruben Gallego and Bernie Moreno introduced the SCAM Act, bipartisan legislation requiring social media platforms to take reasonable steps to prevent fraudulent ads or face FTC and state attorney general enforcement action. The bill targets platforms like Meta, which reportedly derived up to 10 percent of 2024 revenue from scam ads, and aims to address the $19 billion in estimated annual fraud losses to American consumers.Read more →
The Verge...Sam Altman responds to Anthropic’s ‘funny’ Super Bowl adsSam Altman responded to Anthropic's Super Bowl ad criticizing deceptive AI practices, defending OpenAI's free access model and Codex coding tool while arguing that Anthropic's restrictive approach to AI usage limits innovation. OpenAI emphasizes democratized AI access and broad decision-making over controlled, expensive products, positioning itself as enabling builders rather than restricting users.Read more →
Gizmodo...‘Overwatch 2’ Rebrands, and Its Messy Arc Is CompleteBlizzard Entertainment has retitled Overwatch 2 back to simply 'Overwatch' for its 35th anniversary, as the studio believes the game transcends any single number designation. The rebranding accompanies new content initiatives including narrative-driven in-game events, comics, and animated shorts, with new heroes launching throughout 2026 as part of a planned 'Rise of Talon' story arc.Read more →
Gizmodo...The Western US Is in a Snow Drought. What Comes Next Is Even ScarierThe western United States is experiencing a severe snow drought, with record-low snowpack levels due to unusually warm temperatures and a dry spell in January. This threatens the region's water supply, which depends on snowmelt for up to 75% of its freshwater, and significantly increases the risk of summer drought and wildfires across the West.Read more →
Gizmodo...Why the Epstein Files Are Reviving a Conspiracy Theory About Wayfair and Human TraffickingThe article examines a 2020 conspiracy theory claiming Wayfair facilitated child sex trafficking through overpriced furniture listings. After Jeffrey Epstein's files were released in January 2025, the theory resurfaced; however, investigation shows Epstein's Wayfair purchases were ordinary furniture items including bath fixtures and chairs gifted to Woody Allen, with no evidence supporting trafficking claims. The conspiracy theory appears rooted in coincidental expensive listings and missing children's names, but lacks substantive evidence despite proven connections between Epstein and elite figures.Read more →
TechCrunch...A16z just raised $1.7B for AI infrastructure. Here’s where it’s going.Andreessen Horowitz raised $15 billion in new funding, with $1.7 billion allocated to its infrastructure team for AI investments across companies like OpenAI, ElevenLabs, Cursor, and Ideogram. The firm is focusing on AI infrastructure, talent acquisition challenges, and search infrastructure as key areas for future investment.Read more →
The Verge...This Town, 2.0This newsletter covers multiple technology policy developments in Washington, including negotiations on the Clarity Act for cryptocurrency regulation, departures from the Trump administration's Commerce Department venture investment arm, and controversial deals involving crypto companies and foreign entities. Key stories also include government shutdown negotiations, congressional testimony from public figures, and ongoing political battles over tech industry regulation spanning semiconductors, AI, social media, and cryptocurrency.Read more →
Gizmodo...‘Crown’ Star Claire Foy Quit Caffeine After Living With a Gut Parasite for Half a DecadeThe British actor claims to have struggled with gut parasites for at least five years.Read more →
Gizmodo...Washington Post Lays Off Its Amazon Beat Reporter as Bezos Brings the Hammer DownThe Washington Post laid off approximately 300 journalists, representing 30% of its roughly 800-person newsroom, eliminating entire sections including sports and books as the Jeff Bezos-owned newspaper attempts to address long-standing financial challenges. The cuts come amid reported tensions between Bezos's business interests and the paper's editorial independence, following previous subscriber losses after the publication declined to endorse a presidential candidate.Read more →
Engadget...The best digital frames for 2026This article reviews digital photo frames, highlighting the Aura Carver Mat as a premium option with an excellent display and simple setup, while also comparing more affordable alternatives like PhotoSpring and Google's Nest Hub Max. Each device offers different trade-offs between price, features, and display quality, with the Carver Mat standing out for its design and cloud-based photo management system.Read more →
Gizmodo...‘Fallout’ Season 2 Ends Pointing at the Big Bad You Already Knew Was ComingFallout's second season finale sets up major conflicts for season three, including a three-way battle for New Vegas between the NCR and Legion, the emergence of the Enclave as a unifying threat with plans involving the Forced Evolutionary Virus, and the Brotherhood of Steel's construction of Liberty Prime Alpha. The Ghoul's storyline shifts toward Colorado, potentially introducing new lore elements from the franchise's history.Read more →
The Verge...Overwatch: all the news about Blizzard’s hit hero shooterOverwatch 2 is reverting to its original name as Overwatch in 2026, following a series of changes including the reinstatement of 6v6 gameplay and loot boxes that were previously removed or altered. The game has undergone significant shifts since its 2022 launch, reflecting developer responses to community feedback on core gameplay mechanics.Read more →
CNET...Prime Video: The 30 Absolute Best Shows to WatchThis article is a curated list of Prime Video shows across multiple genres, highlighting series such as Fallout, Paper Girls, and The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel. It recommends a diverse selection of content including dramas, comedies, thrillers, and animated series for various viewer preferences.Read more →
Gizmodo...Crypto Market in Shambles as Bitcoin Price Down 40% Since October HighBitcoin has declined approximately 40% from its October all-time high of $125,000 to around $75,000, with the broader crypto market losing $1.75 trillion, underperforming gold amid geopolitical tensions and concerns about quantum computing security threats. The asset's struggle to establish itself as 'digital gold' reflects limited institutional adoption, regulatory uncertainty following setbacks like the CLARITY Act, and competition from emerging technologies like stablecoins that challenge Ethereum's dominance.Read more →
Engadget...Games Done Quick's Back to Black 2026 event kicks off tomorrowGames Done Quick is hosting Back to Black 2026, a four-day speedrunning event starting February 5 that raises funds for Race Forward, a nonprofit addressing systemic racism. The event celebrates Black History Month and showcases talent from the Black speedrunning community with runs including Hades II, Donkey Kong Country, and other titles.Read more →
The Verge...Ikea's cheap new smart home gear is struggling to get connectedA furniture retailer is experiencing significant onboarding and connectivity problems with its newly launched Matter-over-Thread smart home products. These issues are impacting users' ability to set up and maintain connections with the devices.Read more →
Gizmodo...Rent-a-Human Site Lets AI Agents Hire an IRL Set of Opposable ThumbsRentAHuman.ai, a platform allowing AI agents to hire humans for physical tasks, has gained 70,000 sign-ups since launching, though only about 70 AI agents are actively using it. The platform faces significant concerns including minimal actual task opportunities, cryptocurrency-based payments with low wallet adoption rates, and security vulnerabilities stemming from the creators' reliance on AI-generated code rather than rigorous development practices.Read more →
Engadget...Roblox’s '4D' creation toolset is now available in open betaRoblox has introduced a new AI model that generates interactive 3D objects from text prompts, expanding its earlier open-source AI capabilities. The beta toolset currently supports two templates for creating fully functional cars and solid objects with realistic physics and independent interactive components. The company plans to expand customization options and develop image-based 3D generation features.Read more →
CNET...Best Desks of 2026: I’ve Spent Nearly 4,000 Hours Testing Desks. These Are the Ones You WantCNET reviews various desk options for different needs, including standing desks, gaming desks, and crafting tables, with detailed assessments of features, assembly time, and pricing. The article provides recommendations for specific use cases such as gaming, office work, executive spaces, and small areas, helping readers select the best desk based on their requirements and budget.Read more →
The Verge...OpenClaw's AI 'skill' extensions are a security nightmareSecurity researchers discovered hundreds of malicious add-ons distributed through ClawHub, a platform for browser extensions and software add-ons. This finding highlights significant security risks in third-party add-on ecosystems and the need for improved vetting mechanisms to protect users from compromised software.Read more →
Gizmodo...The Oscar-Nominated ‘Avatar’ Costume Designer Explains That Yes, Those Na’vi Outfits Are RealAvatar: Fire and Ash received its first Oscar nomination for Best Costume Design, a historic first for the franchise. Costume designer Deborah L. Scott revealed that despite the film's motion-capture technology, her team creates physical garments at human scale which are then scanned and digitally adapted for the nine-foot-tall Na'vi characters, representing a new approach to costume design in VFX-heavy productions.Read more →
CNET...Best Standing Desks of 2026This CNET article reviews the best standing desks for 2026, evaluating models across various categories including overall quality, budget options, gaming desks, and compact designs. The review highlights that standing desks can reduce sedentary behavior and improve productivity, with prices ranging from under $350 to over $1,700 depending on features and customization.Read more →
CNET...Overwatch's New Season 1 Is What the Game Was Always Meant to BeBlizzard announced a major revitalization of Overwatch, dropping the "2" from the title and launching ten new heroes throughout 2026, starting with five immediately available. The update includes an integrated year-long narrative focused on the Talon storyline, map changes reflecting story events, and improved developer tools that reduced hero design time from eight to four months.Read more →
Engadget...Overwatch will drop the '2' as Jetpack Cat and four other heroes arrive on February 10Blizzard is dropping the '2' from Overwatch's name and launching a major content overhaul in 2026, starting with five new heroes arriving February 10, including the long-awaited Jetpack Cat. The studio is beginning a year-long narrative arc called 'The Reign of Talon' that will connect all lore, heroes, and events, marking the most significant update to the game since the free-to-play transition.Read more →
Engadget...The best VPN deals: Up to 87 percent off ProtonVPN, Surfshark, ExpressVPN, NordVPN and moreThis article reviews current VPN service deals, offering 70-87 percent discounts on annual subscriptions from providers like ExpressVPN, NordVPN, and Surfshark. The piece advises consumers to carefully evaluate VPN options beyond price alone, noting that long-term subscription deals often reset at higher renewal rates and that choosing a reliable VPN is important for protecting online privacy from ISPs and advertisers.Read more →
Engadget...X's 'open source' algorithm isn't a win for transparency, researchers sayX released a redacted version of its recommendation algorithm, claiming transparency, but researchers argue the published code lacks the crucial details needed for meaningful auditing or understanding how the platform actually works. The algorithm now relies on a black-box Grok-like language model for post ranking rather than explicit formulas, making it more opaque despite the open-source release.Read more →
The Verge...The best iPad deals you can get right nowThis article provides a comprehensive guide to current iPad deals across all models, from the entry-level 11th-gen iPad starting at $299.99 to the premium M5 iPad Pro with discounts up to $150. The deals highlight savings on various storage configurations across Wi-Fi and cellular options, making it an opportune time for consumers to purchase iPads outside of major sale events.Read more →
TechCrunch...Tinder looks to AI to help fight ‘swipe fatigue’ and dating app burnoutTinder is launching Chemistry, an AI-powered feature designed to reduce swipe fatigue by using questions and photo analysis to provide users with more targeted match recommendations instead of endless swiping. The feature, currently in testing in Australia, represents a significant shift in Tinder's strategy to combat declining user engagement and subscriber losses, with Match also investing $50 million in marketing to revitalize the platform's appeal.Read more →
Engadget...You can pre-order the Pixel 10a on February 18Google has officially announced the Pixel 10a mid-range smartphone with a teaser video, with pre-orders beginning February 18. Based on leaked specifications, the phone features a 6.285-inch display, dual rear cameras, and a 5,100mAh battery, with minimal external changes from its predecessor.Read more →
Gizmodo...Enormous Pair of Deep-Earth Hot ‘Blobs’ Shape Earth’s Magnetic Field, Scientists SayResearchers have discovered evidence of two massive superheated rock blobs deep within Earth's mantle that play a crucial role in sustaining the planet's magnetic field. These continent-sized structures, located beneath Africa and the Pacific Ocean, maintain the heat transfer necessary to power Earth's geodynamo, the system of electric currents that generates our protective magnetic field and prevents the planet from becoming magnetically dead like Mars and Venus.Read more →
Engadget...ExpressVPN deal: Two-year plans are up to 81 percent offExpressVPN is offering significant discounts on its two-year plans, with up to 81 percent off, making its premium VPN service more affordable for privacy-conscious users. The deal includes four free additional months and addresses the service's historically high pricing while maintaining its reputation for speed, ease of use, and global server network availability.Read more →
Gizmodo...Jacob Elordi’s Mom Told Him to Never Work With Guillermo del Toro for a Very Mom ReasonJacob Elordi broke a childhood promise to his mother never to work with director Guillermo del Toro after being traumatized by Pan's Labyrinth at age 10, but ended up starring in del Toro's Frankenstein, which received 15 Oscar nominations including Best Picture. Elordi plans to bring his mother to the Oscars to make amends for the broken promise.Read more →
CNET...Anker's Versatile Home Battery Backup Hybrid System Is Now Available to BuyAnker launches the Solix E10, a modular home power backup system priced at $3,799-$9,399 that combines battery, solar, and fuel generator capabilities with up to 37.2kW power output and scalability for up to 90kWh capacity. The system offers whole-home backup via Power Dock, DIY installation, and can provide 15 days of backup power when three units are combined, addressing extended outage scenarios.Read more →
TechCrunch...Lunar Energy raises $232M to deploy home batteries that prop up the gridLunar Energy, a residential battery startup, raised $232 million in combined Series C and D funding to scale production to 100,000 units by 2028, capitalizing on growing investment in stationary energy storage as grid-connected batteries become essential for grid stability and virtual power plants replace traditional peaking power plants. Policy shifts away from EV incentives have redirected battery manufacturing focus toward stationary storage, attracting significant venture capital from competitors like Tesla and Base Power.Read more →
TechCrunch...Hackers publish personal information stolen during Harvard, UPenn data breachesShinyHunters, a notorious hacking group, has published over one million records stolen from Harvard University and University of Pennsylvania following data breaches last year. The group claimed responsibility after the universities refused to pay ransom demands, releasing sensitive alumni data including email addresses, phone numbers, donations, and biographical information obtained through social engineering and voice phishing attacks.Read more →
Gizmodo...Ancient ‘Dial-a-Poem’ Service Rises From the Grave, Lets You Use Your Phone as a PhoneDial-a-Poem, a service founded by poet John Giorno in 1968 to deliver poetry over telephone lines, has been revived as a collaboration between Giorno Poetry Systems and The Poetry Project. The new service features work from 30 contemporary poets and is accessible both via phone call and through a website, continuing Giorno's vision of using technology to advance poetry as a performance medium.Read more →
The Verge...I was detained by federal agents in MinneapolisIn response to fraud allegations, the Department of Homeland Security intensified immigration enforcement in Minnesota's Twin Cities, resulting in widespread arrests of both immigrants and protesters. A local protester arrested during demonstrations following a fatal shooting by Border Patrol agents describes harrowing conditions in federal custody, including use of chemical irritants, physical rough treatment, and prolonged detention without timely legal access, while witnessing immigrants being processed for deportation.Read more →
The Verge...Apple TV details its 2026 streaming lineup with big list of announcementsApple TV+ is significantly expanding its content slate for the year with numerous new and returning series, including Ted Lasso season 2, Monarch: Legacy of Monsters season 2, and live sports coverage like Formula 1, marking a strategic shift from its previous quality-focused approach toward broader audience reach. The expansion addresses long-standing complaints about limited content availability, though it raises questions about whether Apple can maintain quality standards across its expanded portfolio.Read more →
The Verge...Google Cloud’s customer chief returns to Microsoft as head of securityMicrosoft has appointed Hayete Gallot as executive vice president of security, replacing Charlie Bell who is transitioning to an engineering quality role. The leadership change occurs as Microsoft continues its Secure Future Initiative to rebuild security culture following multiple high-profile breaches and a critical Cyber Safety Review Board report in 2024.Read more →
Gizmodo...New Mexico Newborn Dies After Mother Drank Raw Milk, Prompting Fresh WarningsA newborn in New Mexico died from a Listeria infection likely contracted from raw milk consumed by the mother during pregnancy, prompting health officials to warn against unpasteurized dairy products. Raw milk poses serious health risks including exposure to foodborne pathogens like Listeria and bird flu, which can be particularly dangerous for pregnant women and infants, despite popular claims about its nutritional benefits.Read more →
The Verge...Google's Pixel 10A will be revealed on February 18thGoogle has announced the Pixel 10A, a budget-friendly smartphone featuring a dual-camera setup in a flat design similar to its predecessor. The device will be available for preorder on February 18th, with pricing expected to remain competitive based on leaks suggesting 128GB and 256GB storage options.Read more →
Engadget...Anthropic says it won't bring ads to Claude, unlike rival ChatGPTAnthropic has committed to keeping Claude ad-free, contrasting with OpenAI's recent introduction of ads to ChatGPT. The company argues that ads would compromise Claude's ability to be a genuinely helpful assistant for deep work and could be inappropriate in contexts like mental health advice or complex problem-solving, as they would conflict with the Claude Constitution's core principle of being helpful.Read more →
CNET...When to Watch Figure Skating at the 2026 Winter OlympicsThe 2026 Winter Olympics figure skating events will take place in Milan from February 6-21, with coverage available in the US on NBC, USA Network, CNBC, NBCSN, and Peacock. Elite skaters including America's Ilia Malinin and Alysa Liu will compete across team, individual, and pairs events for Olympic gold medals.Read more →
CNET...This Phone Stays Charged for Almost a Week by Keeping Your Data SecurePlugging up data-leaking apps extends your phone's battery life. Who would have guessed?Read more →
Engadget...The 11 best gifts under $25 for 2026This article is a gift guide featuring various tech gadgets and accessories for different needs, including phone mounts, smart home devices, wireless chargers, portable fans, and charging cables. The selections emphasize practical utility, affordability, and ease of use for both tech enthusiasts and casual users.Read more →
Gizmodo...A24 Will Revive ‘Texas Chainsaw Massacre’ With a TV Show and MovieA24 has acquired the Texas Chainsaw Massacre franchise and plans to expand it with a TV series from writer JT Mollner and producer Glen Powell, followed by a new film in early development. This acquisition continues the trend of classic horror franchises being adapted into television series.Read more →
The Verge...GitHub adds Claude and Codex AI coding agentsGitHub is integrating AI capabilities from both OpenAI and Anthropic into its platform, expanding its AI-assisted development tools. This reflects Microsoft's broader strategy to incorporate multiple leading AI providers into its developer ecosystem.Read more →
The Verge...Roblox calls its take on AI world models ‘real-time dreaming’Roblox is presenting its research on AI world models, following Google's recent launch of Project Genie. The development reflects growing industry focus on AI systems that can simulate and generate virtual environments.Read more →
The Verge...Fallout’s season 2 finale left plenty unanswered as it expanded in scopeFallout season 2's finale expands the show's scope with multiple converging plotlines involving mind-control technology, hidden vaults, and major power players in the wasteland, but leaves most story threads unresolved. The episode introduces larger mysteries about hidden agendas and upcoming conflicts while delivering minimal payoff, setting up even bigger developments for future seasons.Read more →
CNET...Anthropic Pinky Promises It Won't Add Ads to ClaudeAnthropic is pledging not to introduce advertisements in Claude conversations, running Super Bowl ads to distinguish itself from competitor OpenAI, which recently announced it would begin testing ads in ChatGPT. The move reflects broader tension in the AI industry where companies are seeking new revenue sources to support expensive model development, though concerns remain that ads could compromise user experience and product integrity.Read more →
TechCrunch...Roblox’s 4D creation feature is now available in open betaRoblox launched an open beta for its 4D creation feature, enabling creators to design interactive 3D objects with behaviors and movement capabilities, expanding beyond static models. The technology breaks objects into functional parts—such as cars with spinning wheels—and supports different schema templates, with plans for creators to build custom schemas and AI-powered features like real-time world generation from text prompts.Read more →
Gizmodo...This Earth-Facing Sunspot Region Is Absolutely Popping OffSunspot region 4366 has produced six X-class solar flares since January 30, including an X8.1 flare that generated a coronal mass ejection heading toward Earth. While a minor geomagnetic storm is forecast and some radio blackouts have occurred, the impact on technology and infrastructure is expected to be limited.Read more →
The Verge...'Incognito' operator sentenced to 30 years for running a dark web drug marketRui-Siang Lin was sentenced to 30 years in prison for operating Incognito Market, a dark web marketplace that facilitated over $105 million in drug sales between 2020 and 2024. Lin profited by taking a five percent cut from cryptocurrency transactions while providing anonymity to buyers and sellers, and ultimately stole $1 million from users before closing the operation.Read more →
Gizmodo...Pinterest Reportedly Fires Employees Who Built a Tool to Track LayoffsPinterest fired two engineers who created an internal tool to track recently laid-off employees after the company declined to share that information. The incident highlights tensions between employee transparency concerns and company policies, with leadership framing the behavior as obstructionist rather than constructive dissent.Read more →
Engadget...iPhone Fold rumors: Everything we know so far, including the leaked foldable designApple is targeting a late-2026 launch for its first foldable iPhone with a book-style design similar to Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold, featuring a 7.7-8.3 inch internal display and expected pricing between $2,000-$2,500. The device is expected to use Samsung Display's crease-less OLED panel technology, Liquidmetal hinge material for improved durability, and a four-camera setup with Touch ID instead of Face ID.Read more →
Engadget...Presidents' Day sales 2026: The best tech deals from Apple, Sony, Roku and othersPresidents' Day 2026 offers a range of tech deals across streaming devices, Apple products, headphones, and home electronics, with discounts ranging from 13% to 51%. Notable offerings include the Roku Streaming Stick Plus at 40% off, Apple Watch Series 11 at $100 off, and various audio devices from Beats and Sony at significant markdowns.Read more →
Gizmodo...Experts Stuck 2 Mummies in a CT Scanner. Here’s What They SawEgyptian mummies underwent advanced CT scans at USC's Keck Medicine, revealing previously unknown details about two ancient priests including spinal deterioration, dental problems, and hip issues. The high-resolution imaging technology and resulting 3D models provide unprecedented insights into the lived experiences and health conditions of ancient Egyptians, with applications extending to modern surgical planning and patient education.Read more →
Engadget...Egypt to block Roblox for all usersEgyptian regulators have banned Roblox, citing concerns about child safety, direct communication with strangers, and potential psychological effects on young users. The ban joins restrictions in Iraq, Algeria, Saudi Arabia, UAE, Turkey, and Russia, though Roblox has implemented safeguards and contributed significantly to regional GDP.Read more →
Gizmodo...‘Whistle’ Puts a Pleasingly Freaky Spin on a Familiar Horror TaleWhistle is a horror film that follows familiar genre tropes—a cursed object that kills its victims one by one—but executes the premise effectively through strong cast performances, particularly Dafne Keen as the protagonist Chrys. While the story is predictable and doesn't break new ground narratively, the film stands out for its creative death sequences and maintains entertainment value despite its formulaic structure.Read more →
Gizmodo...Samsung’s Galaxy S26 Might Have an Even More Ridiculous Camera ZoomSamsung is teasing the upcoming Galaxy S26 with hints of enhanced zoom capabilities and improved night mode for video and photos. The flagship phone is expected to launch on February 25 with AI-enhanced zoom technology and refined camera features, though the overall design is expected to remain similar to the Galaxy S25 Ultra.Read more →
Engadget...Alexa+ is now available nationwide, with a free text-based version for non-Prime members to tryAmazon has launched Alexa+, a next-generation AI assistant available to US users for $20/month or free with Prime membership, featuring conversational interactions and agentic capabilities for scheduling, recommendations, and smart home control. The rollout includes a free text-based tier for non-Prime members and positions the premium service as an added value for the 200+ million Prime subscribers.Read more →
The Verge...The 14-inch, ARM-based Asus Vivobook is half off todayThe Asus Vivobook 14 with Snapdragon X processor is on sale for $379.99 at Best Buy, offering solid performance and app compatibility at half its original price. The article highlights improvements in ARM-based laptop emulation and discusses other tech deals including AMD CPU bundles, Nintendo Switch 2 discounts, and Google chargers.Read more →
The Verge...The Verge’s 2026 Valentine’s Day gift guide (for him)This article is a curated Valentine's Day gift guide featuring a wide range of products across multiple categories, from Apple AirPods 4 and Nintendo Switch 2 to massage guns, board games, and novelty items. Each product includes pricing, brief descriptions of features, and why it might appeal as a gift for a romantic partner.Read more →
Engadget...How to watch the 2026 Super Bowl: Patriots vs. Seahawks channel, where to stream, start time, and moreSuper Bowl LX will take place on February 8, 2026, at Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara, featuring the New England Patriots versus Seattle Seahawks with a 6:30 p.m. ET kickoff. The game will be broadcast on NBC and Telemundo, with streaming available on Peacock, NFL+, and DirecTV, while Bad Bunny will headline the halftime show.Read more →
Gizmodo...Here’s Why You Should Care About the Next-Gen Xbox LaunchMicrosoft is developing a next-generation Xbox console with AMD featuring a custom SoC expected to launch in 2027, allowing access to multiple gaming platforms like Steam and Epic Games Store in addition to Xbox services. The console will face a challenging 2026 market characterized by declining gaming hardware sales and rising costs, requiring Microsoft to differentiate through innovative features and competitive pricing to reinvigorate the Xbox brand beyond traditional hardware manufacturing.Read more →
Engadget...iPad deal: Get $100 off the latest iPad mini right nowApple's latest iPad mini featuring the A17 Pro chip is available at $400, a $100 discount from its original price. The device offers a compact 8.3-inch display, Apple Intelligence capabilities, and dual cameras, making it an excellent portable option for travelers and casual users seeking a lightweight tablet alternative to full-sized iPads.Read more →
TechCrunch...ElevenLabs raises $500M from Sequioia at a $11 billion valuationElevenLabs raised $500 million in funding led by Sequoia Capital, reaching an $11 billion valuation—more than triple its January 2025 valuation. The company plans to expand beyond voice AI into video and agent capabilities, with funding directed toward research, product development, and international market expansion.Read more →
Engadget...Super Bowl 2026 TV deals: The best sales this week on OLEDs and other smart TVs ahead of the big gameSuper Bowl 2026 presents an ideal shopping opportunity for TV upgrades as 2025 models are being discounted ahead of new 2026 releases announced at CES. Retailers are offering significant savings across various price points, from budget-friendly 1080p and 4K sets under $500 to premium OLED models discounted by hundreds of dollars, alongside complementary streaming devices and audio equipment.Read more →
Gizmodo...‘KPop Demon Hunters’ Adds Lego Sets to Its Pop Culture TakeoverLego announced a collaboration with the popular KPop Demon Hunters franchise, with a single buildable set featuring the character Derpy the magical tiger launching in spring 2026, followed by additional sets in 2027. The phased rollout suggests limited minifigure availability initially, though the company will likely include key characters as the product line expands.Read more →
The Verge...I drove three Chinese cars — here’s why they would clean up in the USChinese automaker Geely has demonstrated competitive vehicles like the Zeekr 7X that rival Tesla's Model Y at significantly lower prices, positioning itself as a potential entrant to the US market. With an existing manufacturing plant in South Carolina and recent technological advances enabling simultaneous global vehicle launches, Geely could realistically enter the US market by 2029 if regulatory and national security concerns regarding automotive software are resolved.Read more →
TechCrunch...After backlash, Adobe cancels Adobe Animate shutdown and puts app on ‘maintenance mode’Adobe reversed its decision to discontinue Adobe Animate following customer backlash, placing the software in maintenance mode instead. The company will continue providing security updates and bug fixes while halting new feature development, keeping the application available to both current and new users indefinitely.Read more →
Engadget...Pick up the Apple Watch Series 11 while it's $100 offThe Apple Watch Series 11 is currently available at a $100 discount, priced at $299, making it the lowest price seen to date. The smartwatch features over 24 hours of battery life, a lightweight design, and new health metrics including hypertension alerts and Sleep Score functionality.Read more →
Engadget...Apple's iPhone Air MagSafe battery is cheaper than everApple's iPhone Air MagSafe battery pack is currently discounted to $79 from its regular $99 price, offering a slim 7.5mm design that adds minimal bulk while providing 65% additional charge capacity. The accessory also supports wireless charging for AirPods Pro 3 and allows simultaneous charging of both the iPhone and battery pack, making it a practical travel companion despite the premium price.Read more →
The Verge...Spotify launches offline lyrics, translations, and lyric previewsSpotify expanded its lyrics features globally, introducing worldwide access to lyric translations for both free and premium users with automatic localization based on device language. The company also launched lyric previews in a condensed format and offline lyrics access for premium subscribers, enhancing the overall music listening experience across the platform.Read more →
Gizmodo...Apple’s Vision Pro Could Not Provide Me the (Fake) Arcade of My DreamsApple's Retrocade app brings 10 classic arcade games to the Vision Pro headset, featuring visually impressive cabinet models with CRT effects and haptic feedback through controllers. However, the experience falls short of real arcades due to the solitary nature of VR, lack of tactile hand controls on virtual buttons, limited game selection, and absence of multiplayer functionality.Read more →
Engadget...Apple AirTag (2026) review: Simply betterApple released a second-generation AirTag priced at $29, featuring an upgraded ultra-wideband chip that extends Precision Finding range by 50 percent and delivers a louder, higher-pitched chime for better audibility in noisy environments. The new tracker maintains the same minimalist design as its predecessor while delivering meaningful improvements in tracking precision, responsiveness, and usability, particularly when paired with iPhone 15+ and newer Apple Watches.Read more →
CNET...Artemis II Is Shooting for the Moon: All the Details About NASA's Historic MissionNASA's Artemis II mission, scheduled for March 2026 at the earliest, will send four astronauts on a 10-day lunar flyby using the new Space Launch System rocket and Orion spacecraft—the first crewed lunar mission since Apollo 17 in 1972. The mission will test critical systems and gather data to prepare for Artemis III, which aims to return humans to the lunar surface by 2028.Read more →
Engadget...Nintendo's first Direct showcase of 2026 is scheduled for February 5Nintendo will host a Direct showcase on February 5 at 9AM ET, lasting approximately 30 minutes and focusing exclusively on third-party partner titles rather than first-party games. The event will feature announcements for games coming to both Switch and Switch 2 platforms.Read more →
TechCrunch...Uber appoints new CFO as its AV plans accelerateUber promoted Balaji Krishnamurthy, VP of strategic finance and investor relations, to CFO, signaling the company's commitment to autonomous vehicle expansion. The new CFO plans significant capital investments in AV software partners and infrastructure, with CEO Dara Khosrowshahi projecting Uber will facilitate autonomous trips in 15 cities by end of 2026 and become the world's largest AV trip facilitator by 2029.Read more →
CNET...Winter Olympics 2026: How to Watch Ice Hockey EventsThe 2026 Winter Olympics ice hockey events will run from February 5-22 in Milan-Cortina, with nearly 1.2 million tickets sold across men's and women's tournaments. All matches will be available to stream on Peacock and air on NBC, USA Network, and CNBC, with notable returning NHL players including Matthew Tkachuk for Team USA and Sidney Crosby for Canada.Read more →
CNET...Expert-Approved Continuous Glucose Monitors to Track Your Glucose DailyThis article reviews the best continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) available in 2026, including prescription and over-the-counter options like Dexcom G6, Stelo, and Abbott Freestyle Libre 3 Plus. CGMs provide real-time blood sugar tracking via wearable arm sensors that connect to smartphone apps, helping patients with diabetes and health-conscious individuals make informed decisions about diet, activity, and medication.Read more →
CNET...55 of the Best TV Shows on Netflix That Will Keep You EntertainedCNET provides a curated list of top Netflix shows to help viewers navigate the streamer's extensive catalog and avoid wasting time on poor content. The article highlights upcoming releases including The Lincoln Lawyer Season 4 (Feb. 5) and The Night Agent Season 3 (Feb. 19), offering recommendations across various genres from flagship series to underrated originals.Read more →
Gizmodo...It’s Going to Take a While For ‘Pluribus’ Season 2Mattel Studios is expanding its toy-to-film adaptations with projects including a Matchbox movie starring John Cena set for October 2025 release on Apple TV, and a character-driven drama based on the cult-classic Tony the Tattooed Man action figure. The article also covers casting updates for The Last of Us, The Temple sci-fi horror film, and production delays for Vince Gilligan's Pluribus series.Read more →
The Verge...Amazon rolls out Alexa Plus nationwide and launches a new free tierAmazon has expanded Alexa Plus, its generative AI-powered digital assistant, to all US Prime members and introduced a free tier for non-Prime users, with pricing at $19.99/month for standalone access. Built on Amazon Nova and Anthropic's large language models, Alexa Plus has evolved from a command-control voice assistant to a conversational AI capable of handling complex queries, managing calendars, booking services, and functioning as a text-based chatbot.Read more →
TechCrunch...SNAK Venture Partners raises $50M fund to back vertical marketplacesSNAK Venture Partners closed its $50 million debut fund focused on digitizing B2B marketplaces in underserved industries like supply chain and construction. Founded by former Pritzker Group investment leaders, the firm plans to invest in 20+ companies at $1-2 million per check, leveraging their track record with successful marketplace exits and a location-agnostic approach based in Chicago.Read more →
TechCrunch...Alexa+, Amazon’s AI assistant, is now available to everyone in the U.S.Amazon has launched Alexa+ to all U.S. customers, offering generative AI-powered features free to Prime members and with limitations for free web/app users, while non-Prime customers can pay $19.99/month. The upgraded assistant uses a combination of Amazon and third-party AI models to enable natural conversations, complex task automation through integrations with services like Uber and OpenTable, and features like itinerary planning and recipe management, with early beta data showing 2-3x increase in customer conversations and 25% growth in music streams.Read more →
TechCrunch...Apeiron Labs gets $29M to flood the oceans with autonomous underwater robotsApeiron Labs has developed low-cost autonomous underwater vehicles that collect subsurface ocean data by traveling up and down the water column multiple times daily, addressing a critical gap in oceanographic monitoring that previously required expensive ship expeditions. The startup closed a $9.5 million Series A round and aims to deploy dozens or hundreds of these compact AUVs for applications ranging from defense surveillance to fisheries management, with plans to reduce ocean data collection costs by a factor of 1,000.Read more →
TechCrunch...Apeiron Labs gets $9.5M to flood the oceans with autonomous underwater robotsApeiron Labs has raised $9.5 million to scale production of autonomous underwater vehicles that collect subsurface ocean data at significantly lower cost than traditional ship-based methods. The small, deployable AUVs monitor temperature, salinity, and acoustics across vast ocean areas, addressing a critical data gap for defense, fisheries, and climate monitoring applications.Read more →
Engadget...This 45W Anker Nano charger with smart display is on sale for only $30Anker unveiled an updated Nano Charger at CES 2026, a 45W charging device priced at $30 with a 25% discount on Amazon. The charger features a smart display showing real-time power flow, temperature, and charging status, with intelligent device recognition that automatically optimizes charging parameters to extend battery lifespan and support multiple device types including iPhones, Apple Watches, AirPods, and Samsung devices.Read more →
CNET...These Are the Whitening Toothpastes Dentists Recommend to Their PatientsThis article provides a comprehensive guide to selecting whitening toothpaste, reviewing seven products with varying formulations and recommendations from dentists. Key considerations include abrasiveness levels, active ingredients like hydrogen peroxide or hydroxyapatite, and individual factors such as tooth sensitivity and desired whitening speed.Read more →
Engadget...Sonos home theater gear is on sale for up to 20 percent off right nowSonos is offering significant discounts on its home theater products during Super Bowl season, with the popular Beam (Gen 2) soundbar reduced by $130 to $369, along with deals on the Arc Ultra, subwoofers, and other speakers. The Beam offers impressive audio quality for a midrange soundbar with Dolby Atmos support despite its single HDMI port limitation.Read more →
The Verge...Everyone is stealing TVSuperBox and vSeeBox are gaining popularity as affordable alternatives to expensive cable and streaming subscriptions, offering access to thousands of channels and on-demand content through devices costing $300-$400. These rogue streaming devices operate in a gray area, with manufacturers in China providing the hardware while American resellers distribute them, while the devices access pirated content through custom apps that crack DRM protections from legitimate services like Sling TV and Netflix.Read more →
The Verge...Anthropic says ‘Claude will remain ad-free,’ unlike ChatGPTAnthropic has announced that it won't be bringing ads to its AI chatbot Claude, in sharp contrast to confirmed plans from OpenAI to allow advertising in ChatGPT. To hammer the point home further, the company is releasing a Super Bowl commercial that makes fun of unnamed rivals adding adverts to their AI. "We want Claude […]Read more →
Engadget...This 512GB Samsung P9 microSD Express card is on sale for 33 percent offSamsung's 512GB P9 microSD Express card is discounted 33% to $80, offering significant value for Nintendo Switch 2 storage expansion with 800MB/s transfer speeds. The card is also compatible with Steam Deck and other devices supporting the microSD Express format.Read more →
CNET...I'm a Pro Photographer. Here's How I Take Film Photos With Analog CamerasThis article provides a comprehensive guide to analog film photography for beginners, covering essential techniques such as exposure control through ISO, aperture, and shutter speed adjustments. It also details the film development process, including cost-effective home scanning methods using digital cameras and specialized kits, as well as practical tips for getting started with film photography.Read more →
CNET...We Tested 35 Phones for the Best Battery Life. These 2 Brands Topped the FieldApple and OnePlus lead in smartphone battery life performance, with the iPhone 17 Pro Max and OnePlus 15 ranking at the top. Silicon-carbon battery technology is emerging as a key advancement, enabling higher capacity without larger physical batteries, representing a significant turning point in smartphone power management after a decade of minimal battery innovation.Read more →
Gizmodo...Wizards of the Coast Is Giving God’s Favorite Princess Her Own ‘Magic: The Gathering’ Secret LairWizards of the Coast announced a massive Dungeons & Dragons-themed Secret Lair card collection featuring seven sets, including two dedicated to Baldur's Gate 3 characters Shadowheart and Gale Dekarios. The drop launches February 9 with individual sets priced at $30-$40, with bundle options up to $465 for completionist collectors.Read more →
CNET...Best WordPress Hosting for Smooth Website Operation in 2026This article provides a comprehensive guide to WordPress hosting features and compares multiple hosting providers. It covers essential factors like storage, bandwidth, security, scalability, uptime, site speed, and customer support, then evaluates specific hosts including Bluehost, HostGator, WP Engine, and others based on their offerings and performance.Read more →
TechCrunch...Accel doubles down on Fibr AI as agents turn static websites into one-to-one experiencesFibr AI has secured $5.7 million in Series A funding led by Accel to automate website personalization using AI agents, enabling enterprises to run thousands of parallel experiments instead of a few dozen annually. The startup replaces traditional agency and engineering-heavy personalization models with autonomous systems that continuously optimize page content in real-time, already gaining traction among Fortune 100 companies in regulated industries like banking and healthcare.Read more →
TechCrunch...Spotify upgrades its lyrics feature with offline access, more translationsSpotify has announced updates to its lyrics feature, including global availability of lyric translations, offline viewing for Premium subscribers, and repositioning lyrics more prominently in the app interface. The changes aim to encourage free users to upgrade to Premium while improving engagement with the existing feature.Read more →
Gizmodo...Pfizer’s Experimental Weight Loss Drug Shows Promise as a Once-a-Month ShotPfizer presented trial data for PF'3944, an ultra-long-acting GLP-1 drug designed to require monthly dosing instead of weekly injections like competitors. Participants lost up to 12.3% of body weight with monthly maintenance doses, with no plateau observed by week 28, suggesting potential for greater efficacy than existing weight loss medications.Read more →
Gizmodo...Maggie Gyllenhaal Insists ‘The Bride!’ Isn’t a Musical, Despite All the SingingMaggie Gyllenhaal's upcoming film The Bride! features dance sequences and musical elements but is not classified as a musical genre film. The unconventional monster romance, starring Christian Bale and Jessie Buckley, includes tap dancing and performances by Jake Gyllenhaal, Maggie's brother, but represents a different form of storytelling than traditional musicals.Read more →
Gizmodo...Small Size and Serious Power, KAMRUI Mini PCs Up to 50% Off With Stackable Savings on AmazonKamrui is offering significant discounts on two mini PCs via Amazon: the Hyper H2 with Intel Core i5-14450HX drops to $391 with promotional codes, while the Pinova P2 with a 12-core i5-12600H reaches $359. Both compact systems deliver desktop-class performance for gaming, streaming, and productivity at substantially reduced prices.Read more →
The Verge...Sen. Warren wants to know what Google Gemini’s built-in checkout means for user privacySenator Warren is seeking clarification from Google regarding the data sharing practices with retail partners, specifically what types of data will be disclosed and the volume of information involved. This inquiry reflects ongoing scrutiny of tech companies' data handling practices and their commercial relationships.Read more →
Engadget...How to set up an AirTagApple's AirTag is a tracking device that uses the Find My network to locate everyday items like keys and luggage. The setup process is straightforward, requiring only a compatible iPhone or iPad with Bluetooth and Location Services enabled, and takes just a few minutes to complete and configure.Read more →
CNET...9 Ways You’re Using Your Exercise Bike Wrong, According to Cycling ProsThe article provides comprehensive guidance on proper exercise bike usage, covering critical setup adjustments like seat height and handlebar positioning, as well as workout structuring principles. Key mistakes to avoid include improper bike configuration, skipping warm-ups and cool-downs, inconsistent training strategies, and neglecting bike maintenance.Read more →
CNET...I Switched to a Smart Induction Stove. Here's Why I'm Never Going BackA tech reviewer details their transition from gas to induction cooking after over a year of use, highlighting improvements in air quality, speed, energy efficiency, and ease of cleanup. The Samsung Bespoke Smart Induction Range offers faster heating, precise temperature control, smart home integration for remote monitoring, and a virtually maintenance-free cooktop surface, though some premium features like the internal oven camera prove less useful than expected.Read more →
CNET...Xbox Cloud Gaming Ad-Supported Tier: When Does It Start, How Much Will It Cost and MoreMicrosoft is preparing to launch an ad-supported tier for Xbox Cloud Gaming, potentially arriving this year with free access but limited play sessions. The tier would feature 1-hour play sessions with mandatory ads, though specific game availability and final pricing details remain unconfirmed.Read more →
CNET...We Retested Every Meal Kit Service. This Underdog Is Our New Favorite in 2026Marley Spoon, backed by Martha Stewart, has emerged as a top meal kit service offering creative, gourmet recipes that remain accessible to home cooks of varying skill levels. The service distinguishes itself through high-quality ingredients, thoughtful recipe curation, and flexibility in meal selection, making it ideal for food enthusiasts seeking to elevate their weeknight dining without requiring advanced culinary skills.Read more →
CNET...Blender, Food Processor and Stand Mixer: What's the Difference and Do You Need All 3?This article explains the functional differences between three common kitchen appliances: blenders, which liquefy ingredients through rapid blade rotation; food processors, which chop and process solid ingredients with various attachments; and stand mixers, which gently combine ingredients without breaking them down. Understanding these distinctions helps cooks select the right tool for specific recipes and justify kitchen appliance purchases.Read more →
Engadget...The best VR headsets for 2026Modern VR headsets have evolved into serious platforms for gaming, fitness, and creative work, offering improved immersion through sharper displays, wider fields of view, and better tracking systems. The article reviews the best VR headsets for 2026, evaluating them based on ergonomics, immersion quality, and controller design, while noting that different headsets serve different needs ranging from standalone ease-of-use to high-fidelity PC-connected experiences.Read more →
Gizmodo...Yacht Havers Are Losing Access to Teak Because it Funded Myanmar’s JuntaLuxury yacht manufacturers have historically used teak wood despite import bans in the US, UK, and EU since 2021 due to connections to Myanmar's military junta and deforestation. The industry is now shifting to alternative materials as pre-sanctions teak stockpiles deplete, though enforcement has been limited with fines proving negligible compared to yacht costs.Read more →
TechCrunch...Exclusive: Positron raises $230M Series B to take on Nvidia’s AI chipsSemiconductor startup Positron has raised $230 million in Series B funding led by Qatar's sovereign wealth fund to accelerate deployment of high-speed memory chips designed for AI workloads. The company's Atlas chip aims to match Nvidia H100 GPU performance while using less than a third of the power, positioning Positron to capture growing demand for AI inference hardware as major hyperscalers and firms like OpenAI seek alternatives to Nvidia.Read more →
Engadget...How to buy a GPU in 2026This comprehensive GPU buying guide helps consumers navigate the competitive graphics card market by explaining key factors like game types, resolution/refresh rate targets, ray tracing capabilities, upscaling technologies (DLSS, FSR), and VRAM requirements. The article recommends balancing performance with budget constraints, notes that AMD and Intel currently offer better value than NVIDIA's 2025 RTX 50 series, and suggests waiting to purchase until memory shortage prices stabilize.Read more →
Engadget...AMD suggests the next-gen Xbox will arrive in 2027AMD CEO Lisa Su revealed that Microsoft is developing a next-generation Xbox console with AMD's semi-custom processors, with a targeted launch in 2027. The partnership focuses on co-engineered silicon and integrating AI and machine learning capabilities into future Xbox games and potentially handheld devices.Read more →
CNET...My Experience With United's Starlink Service: How All In-Flight Wi-Fi Should BeUnited Airlines has begun equipping its mainline Boeing 737-800 aircraft with Starlink satellite Wi-Fi, offering passengers download speeds around 250Mbps—significantly faster than traditional in-flight internet systems. The service provides gate-to-gate connectivity and is being rolled out to 25% of United's fleet in 2025, with plans to reach 500 aircraft by 2026, fundamentally improving the in-flight internet experience for travelers.Read more →
CNET...'Fallout' Season 2 Ending Explained: Dissecting the Biggest Moments From the FinaleFallout season 2 concludes with major character resolutions as Maximus finds Lucy, Lucy confronts her father Hank's sinister experiments, and the Ghoul discovers clues about his missing family, setting up a larger conflict involving the mysterious Enclave faction. Amazon has already renewed the series for season 3, with the finale teasing an impending war in New Vegas and the Brotherhood of Steel's acquisition of Liberty Prime Alpha, a powerful combat robot from before the apocalypse.Read more →
The Verge...Adobe actually won’t discontinue AnimateAdobe reversed its decision to discontinue Animate, moving it to maintenance mode indefinitely instead. The application will receive ongoing security and bug fixes while remaining available to new and existing users, though it will not receive new feature updates.Read more →
CNET...Dyson's Thinnest and Lightest Cordless Vacuum Ever Is Finally Ready to Buy in the USDyson has launched the PencilVac, a cordless vacuum weighing just 4 pounds with a distinctive pencil-thin design (1.5 inches wide) that prioritizes maneuverability and ease of use. The $599 vacuum features innovative dust compression technology, dual FluffyCone cleaner heads to prevent hair wrap, and unique LED lighting, though its 55 air watts of suction is significantly lower than premium models like the V15 Detect Absolute.Read more →
Gizmodo...Not So Fast, Google: That Lenient Monopoly Ruling from Last Year Is Being AppealedThe Justice Department and multiple states have appealed a September 2024 ruling that found Google to be a monopolist but imposed only minimal penalties, including data sharing requirements and slight limitations on exclusivity deals. The appeal offers a theoretical opportunity for stricter remedies like forcing the sale of Chrome or banning Google's lucrative search engine default deals with Apple and Samsung, though legal experts consider meaningful consequences unlikely given historical patterns.Read more →
CNET...If You're Attending a Protest, Here's How to Be Smart With Your PhoneThis article provides practical security guidance for protesters to protect their mobile devices from law enforcement surveillance and data confiscation. It covers essential steps including enabling encryption, disabling location services, managing biometric unlocking features, and using burner phones, while addressing the legal and technical aspects of device privacy during mass demonstrations.Read more →
TechCrunch...Epstein-linked longevity guru Peter Attia leaves David Protein, and his own startup ‘won’t comment’Dr. Peter Attia, a prominent longevity physician and Chief Science Officer at nutrition startup David Protein, stepped down from his role following the release of documents showing email correspondence with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Attia denied criminal involvement or visiting Epstein's properties but acknowledged crude content in the emails, prompting the company to distance itself from him amid reputational concerns.Read more →
The Verge...Republicans haul Netflix before Congress for being too ‘woke’A Republican senator criticized Netflix for producing what he characterized as excessively progressive content. The comment reflects ongoing political debates about the entertainment industry's content choices and representation.Read more →
Gizmodo...We’re Nowhere Near Ready to Make Babies in Space, Experts WarnExperts argue that protecting astronauts' reproductive health is critical for long-term human space exploration, as radiation and microgravity pose significant risks to fertility and fetal development. A new framework is needed to address biological, ethical, and health hazards before humanity expands missions to the Moon and Mars.Read more →
Engadget...DOJ and states appeal Google monopoly ruling to push for harsher penalties against the companyThe US Department of Justice has filed a cross-appeal challenging a judge's decision not to require Google to divest its Chrome browser despite the company being ruled to have a monopoly. The appeal seeks to overturn the ruling that blocked forced divestiture, though Google will still face other restrictions including ending exclusive distribution deals and sharing search data with competitors.Read more →
CNET...Liene's PixiCut S1 Is a Very Cool Sticker Printer Looking for an AudienceThe Liene PixiCut S1 is a portable sticker printer under $300 that prints and cuts stickers in minutes using a built-in blade and intuitive mobile app. While it produces high-quality, durable stickers superior to Cricut alternatives, it suffers from inconsistent cutting precision and fume emissions, making it best suited for casual creators rather than professionals or high-volume producers.Read more →
TechCrunch...India’s Varaha bags $20M to scale carbon removal from the Global SouthVaraha, an India-based climate tech startup, has raised $20 million in Series B funding to scale carbon removal projects across Asia and Africa. The company leverages lower operating costs and technical talent in emerging markets to deliver verified emissions reductions at competitive prices compared to European and North American competitors, targeting corporate buyers facing growing energy demands from data centers and AI workloads.Read more →
The Verge...AMD hints Microsoft could launch its next-gen Xbox in 2027AMD has announced its readiness to support Microsoft in launching the next generation Xbox console potentially as early as next year. This collaboration indicates that AMD's chip technology will continue powering Microsoft's gaming hardware platform.Read more →
Engadget...ChatGPT is back up after an outage disrupted use this afternoonChatGPT experienced a partial outage affecting thousands of users this afternoon, with OpenAI reporting elevated error rates that were resolved by 5:14 PM ET. Anthropic's Claude also encountered similar API issues that were resolved earlier in the day, though OpenAI's fine-tuning API component remained under monitoring.Read more →
CNET...Mozilla Adds Option to Disable New AI Features Coming to Firefox BrowserMozilla Firefox is introducing optional AI features in version 148 releasing February 24, including an AI chatbot sidebar, translation, PDF summaries, and tab grouping suggestions. All AI capabilities will have toggles allowing users to disable them entirely, reflecting Mozilla's commitment to user choice and privacy-first design.Read more →
Gizmodo...The Scripts for David Lynch’s Never-Made Netflix Pitch May Soon Be PublishedDavid Lynch's unrealized Netflix project 'Unrecorded Night' may be published as scripts by his family and collaborators as a tribute to the legendary filmmaker. Jennifer Lynch announced plans to release the scripts to fans while discouraging unauthorized versions, with longtime producer Sabrina Sutherland confirming similar intentions.Read more →
CNET...Best MacBooks We’ve Tested (February 2026)This CNET article reviews Apple's current MacBook lineup, comparing the MacBook Air and MacBook Pro models across various specifications including processor, display, price, and performance. The article provides detailed recommendations for different user types, noting that the 15-inch M4 MacBook Air offers the best balance of performance, portability, and price for most consumers, while Pro models cater to creative professionals requiring greater processing power.Read more →
CNET...I've Tried Dozens of Cordless Vacuums--Dyson's PencilVac Is the Sleekest YetDyson's new PencilVac is an ultra-lightweight cordless vacuum weighing under 4 pounds with a pencil-like design, featuring innovative conical brush heads that prevent hair tangling and a dust compression system that packs five times more debris into a small 0.08-liter bin. While offering excellent maneuverability and convenience features like MyDyson app connectivity and LED dust detection, its small dustbin capacity and light-duty design make it better suited as a supplementary vacuum for quick cleanups rather than a primary household cleaner.Read more →
CNET...French Police Search X Offices in Paris as UK Launches Investigation Into GrokFrench prosecutors are investigating X and its leadership for allegedly distributing sexually explicit deepfakes and Holocaust denial content, with Elon Musk and former CEO Linda Yaccarino summoned for questioning in April. Simultaneously, UK and EU regulators are investigating the xAI chatbot Grok for generating non-consensual sexual imagery, including of minors.Read more →
The Verge...Department of Justice appeals Google search monopoly rulingThe Department of Justice filed a cross-appeal in its antitrust case against Google, challenging the remedies ordered by Judge Amit Mehta. The DOJ's action comes weeks after Google filed its own appeal, indicating neither party is satisfied with the remedies requiring data sharing with competitors and restrictions on exclusive distribution deals.Read more →
Engadget...Take-Two hit pause on the Switch 2 port of Borderlands 4Take-Two has indefinitely paused development on Borderlands 4 for Nintendo Switch 2, originally scheduled for October 2025, to focus on post-launch content and optimization for other platforms. The company remains committed to bringing future titles to Switch 2 while Grand Theft Auto VI maintains its November 2026 release date.Read more →
The Verge...Slopaganda goes WestRight-wing provocateur Nick Shirley, who previously triggered federal immigration enforcement responses in Minneapolis, is reportedly attempting similar tactics in San Diego. The article suggests a pattern of deliberately inciting government responses through controversial actions.Read more →
CNET...Spain Follows Australia in Banning Children From Social Media. Crackdown Could Begin Next WeekSpain announced plans to ban children under 16 from popular messaging and social media apps, with legislation potentially taking effect within a week through mandatory age-verification systems. The move is part of a broader regulatory framework addressing algorithmic amplification, platform accountability, and child protection from online harms, following similar legislation passed in Australia and under consideration across Europe.Read more →
TechCrunch...The Minneapolis tech community holds strong during ‘tense and difficult time’Intense immigration enforcement operations in Minneapolis are severely disrupting the tech community, with founders and investors pausing business activities to assist vulnerable neighbors and community members. The deployment of over 3,000 federal agents has created widespread fear and trauma, prompting tech leaders to volunteer, donate, and support those afraid to leave their homes, while criticism mounts against corporate leaders for inadequate responses.Read more →
Gizmodo...Brandon Sanderson Reveals His Journey to Make a ‘Cosmere’ AdaptationApple TV has secured adaptation rights to Brandon Sanderson's Cosmere novels, with a Mistborn movie and Stormlight Archive TV series in development. Sanderson will maintain significant creative control including writing, producing, and cast approval, with the adaptations expected to impact but not derail his writing schedule, as he has already allocated time for the projects.Read more →
Gizmodo...Spain to Ban Under-16s on Social Media as the World Goes All in on Age VerificationSpain and Greece are implementing social media bans for children under 16 and 15 respectively, following Australia's 2024 precedent to protect minors from cyberbullying, harmful content, and self-harm material. The trend is spreading globally with France, Denmark, Malaysia, and the U.K. introducing similar age-restriction measures, though facing legal challenges from civil liberties groups citing freedom of speech concerns.Read more →
Gizmodo...Meta’s Quest 3 Has the First VR Keyboard That Doesn’t Totally SuckMeta's new Surface Keyboard feature for Quest 3 significantly improves typing in VR/XR by allowing users to type on real surfaces using hand tracking instead of tedious controller or hand-tracking methods. The feature leverages Quest 3's external cameras to create a virtual keyboard overlay, delivering faster and more accurate typing that's comparable to physical keyboard experiences, though the accompanying trackpad still needs refinement.Read more →
Gizmodo...The 3-Body Problem Just Got an Upgrade—and You Can Thank EinsteinA new study explains the scarcity of circumbinary exoplanets (planets orbiting binary star systems) by demonstrating that general relativity's effects on three-body gravitational interactions cause such planets to either collide with their host stars or be ejected from the system. The research analyzed how relativistic forces gradually reshape binary star orbits over millions of years, creating an instability zone that destabilizes or removes planets that form around tight binary systems.Read more →
CNET...'High Potential' Hulu Release Schedule: How to Watch Season 2, Episode 12High Potential, an ABC crime drama starring Kaitlin Olson, has resumed Season 2 with regular weekly episodes following a midseason break. The show follows a single mother with exceptional cognitive abilities working as a consultant for the Los Angeles Police Department, and new episodes continue to air on ABC before streaming on Hulu.Read more →
The Verge...Borderlands 4 for Switch 2 is on ‘pause’Take-Two has paused development on the Nintendo Switch 2 version of Borderlands 4, citing a need to focus on post-launch content and game optimization for existing platforms. The company remains committed to Nintendo Switch 2 with other titles like PGA Tour 2K25 and WWE 2K26 in development, while maintaining its November 2026 release target for Grand Theft Auto VI.Read more →
Gizmodo...All the Messy Drama Between OpenAI and Nvidia, ExplainedOpenAI and Nvidia are experiencing tensions over their $100 billion investment deal, with Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang privately criticizing OpenAI's business approach while OpenAI seeks alternative chip providers like Cerebras and Groq due to concerns about Nvidia's inference capabilities. The rift reflects broader competitive pressures from Google's custom AI chips and Anthropic, prompting both companies to publicly reaffirm their partnership while privately pursuing contingency strategies.Read more →
CNET...When AI Bots Form Their Own Social Network: Inside Moltbook's Wild StartMoltbook, a social platform exclusively for AI agents built on the OpenClaw framework, has rapidly grown to 1.5 million active agents within weeks of launch. The platform has become a fascinating case study in emergent AI behavior, with agents forming communities, developing shared culture and inside jokes, and engaging in economic exchanges, though it raises significant security and verification concerns regarding autonomous agent coordination without direct human oversight.Read more →
Gizmodo...Melinda French Gates Appears to Confirm Divorce With Bill Was Related to EpsteinMelinda French Gates confirmed in an NPR interview that her ex-husband Bill Gates' interactions with Jeffrey Epstein were a factor in their 2021 divorce, expressing sadness about the situation and allegations contained in newly released Epstein files. Bill Gates' representatives deny the allegations as false, stating the documents reflect Epstein's frustration over a lack of ongoing relationship with Gates.Read more →
Gizmodo...The Best Gadgets for Throwing a Kick-Ass Super Bowl LX PartyThis article provides tech recommendations for hosting a Super Bowl party, covering everything from display screens to neural headbands and entertainment devices. The author emphasizes that a successful Super Bowl gathering requires the right technology to enhance viewing experience, food preparation, and entertainment regardless of game outcome.Read more →
CNET...Super Bowl LX: Here Are the AI-Related Ads Coming to the Big GameMultiple technology companies are featuring artificial intelligence prominently in their Super Bowl LX advertisements, with brands like Svedka, Wix, OpenAI, and Meta showcasing AI-powered products and capabilities. The ads reflect the industry's broader focus on AI integration across entertainment, website creation, video generation, and wearable technology.Read more →
The Verge...The four best Super Bowl TV deals we foundThe Super Bowl is a prime shopping event for discounted televisions, with options ranging from budget-friendly to premium models. Key considerations include brightness for ambient light, screen size, budget constraints, and specific features like OLED technology or gaming refresh rates, with popular choices including Samsung S95F, LG C5, TCL QM7K, and Hisense U75QG.Read more →
Gizmodo...Universal Successfully Bullied Into Letting Olympian Use ‘Minions’ MusicSpanish figure skater Tomás-Llorenç Guarino Sabaté was initially blocked from performing his Minions-themed Olympic routine due to Universal's copyright concerns, but the company reversed its decision after public outcry and media coverage. His performance is scheduled for February 10 at the Milan Olympics and has generated significant interest due to the viral nature of the dispute.Read more →
CNET...The $500 Check That Kickstarted Apple Just Sold for $2.4 Million. Take a LookA historic $500 check signed by Steve Jobs and Steve Wozniak in 1976 sold for $2.4 million at an auction marking Apple's 50th anniversary. The check, one of the earliest transactions in Apple's founding, was used to pay circuit board designer Howard Cantin for converting Wozniak's Apple-1 schematic into a manufacturable design.Read more →
Engadget...ChatGPT is down for many users this afternoonChatGPT experienced a significant partial outage affecting many users, with Down Detector reporting over 12,000 incident reports around 3PM ET. OpenAI confirmed elevated error rates across all 13 ChatGPT components and indicated the team was working on a mitigation without providing a resolution timeline.Read more →
TechCrunch...Intel will start making GPUs, a market dominated by NvidiaIntel CEO Lip-Bu Tan announced the company will begin producing graphics processing units (GPUs) to compete with Nvidia's dominant market position in AI and gaming chips. The initiative, led by executives recently hired from competitors, is still in early stages and will be shaped by customer demands.Read more →
CNET...HBO Max: The 26 Absolute Best Movies to WatchThis article provides HBO Max viewers with curated recommendations across multiple genres, including new January releases like The Smashing Machine and If I Had Legs I'd Kick You, alongside popular films such as Dune, Superman, and Barbie. The guide aims to help subscribers discover quality content spanning drama, action, comedy, and documentary genres available on the streaming platform.Read more →
The Verge...Elon Musk is merging SpaceX and xAI to build data centers in space — or so he saysElon Musk announced a merger of SpaceX and xAI valued at $1.25 trillion, citing the need for space-based data centers to power AI infrastructure sustainably. The move appears to be a strategic financial decision to stabilize xAI, which is burning approximately $1 billion monthly, by leveraging SpaceX's profitability and Starlink infrastructure, though the technical and economic viability of orbital data centers remains uncertain.Read more →
Gizmodo...Sam Altman Expects to Get What He WantsOpenAI CEO Sam Altman faced public criticism from Nvidia's leadership over chip dissatisfaction, revealing potential fissures in the AI industry's most prominent partnership. The article examines Altman's track record of getting his way through persuasion and aggressive expansion, but questions whether his scattered focus across 400+ investments and numerous product directions is sustainable as OpenAI faces mounting financial pressures and potential cash depletion by 2027.Read more →
CNET...Today's NYT Connections: Sports Edition Hints and Answers for Feb. 4, #499This article provides hints and answers for the New York Times Connections: Sports Edition puzzle, a subscription-based word game published by The Athletic. The puzzle features four categories related to sports terminology, including words meaning smooth wins, fantasy sports trading options, sports playing areas, and Orlando Magic roster members.Read more →
Gizmodo...The Big ChromeOS and Android Merger May Be Google’s Last Walled GardenGoogle is developing 'Aluminum,' a new operating system that merges ChromeOS with Android to enable direct execution of Android apps on Chromebooks, potentially launching between 2026 and 2028. The merger aims to break ChromeOS's dependence on the Chrome browser and web-based applications, though exact compatibility details and device support remain unclear.Read more →
CNET...Free Movies Coming in February 2026 to Tubi, Pluto TV and MoreFree streaming platforms Tubi, Kanopy, and Pluto TV are adding hundreds of new films and TV shows in February, offering viewers a cost-free alternative to paid subscription services with releases including original content, classic movies, and indie films. The platforms are positioning themselves as increasingly attractive options as consumers face mounting price increases from major streaming providers.Read more →
Gizmodo...‘Starfleet Academy’ Sneakily Brought Some More ‘Star Trek Online’ Ships to TVStar Trek: Starfleet Academy has incorporated three ship designs from Star Trek Online into television canon, marking the first Klingon-aligned vessels from the MMO to appear on screen. The ships debut in the 32nd-century setting as part of a storyline addressing the Klingon Empire's fall and extinction crisis, continuing a trend that began with Picard's integration of STO designs into the TV franchise.Read more →
The Verge...Microsoft says it’s building an app store for AI content licensingA new Publisher Content Marketplace is being developed to streamline how AI companies acquire and pay for premium content from publishers. This initiative aims to create a standardized platform for content licensing, potentially addressing concerns about fair compensation for original works used in AI training and products.Read more →
Engadget...Apple just made Xcode better for vibe codingApple released Xcode 26.3 with expanded AI coding agent support, enabling Claude and ChatGPT to access documentation, file structures, and project settings within the IDE through Model Context Protocol (MCP) servers. This enhancement allows developers to integrate various coding agents directly into Xcode's terminal, improving development efficiency and streamlining workflows.Read more →
TechCrunch...YC startups can now recieve investment in stablecoinY Combinator will allow its portfolio startups to receive seed funding via stablecoins on Base, Solana, and Ethereum blockchains, starting with the spring batch. The move aims to benefit founders in emerging markets and signals YC's commitment to supporting blockchain-focused companies following its partnership with Base and Coinbase Ventures.Read more →
Gizmodo...Check Out 10 Weird and Wonderful Finalists for the ‘Pulitzer of the New Instrument World’Georgia Tech's Guthman Musical Instrument Competition announced its 10 finalists, showcasing innovative instruments ranging from hybrid acoustic-electric designs like the EV viola to conceptual creations such as the Demon Box that amplifies electromagnetic frequencies from everyday electronics. The competition, now in its 28th year, continues to identify groundbreaking musical instrument innovations with a $10,000 prize, having produced successful companies like Roli and Teenage Engineering among its past winners.Read more →
CNET...Elon Musk's SpaceX Is Acquiring xAI With Big Plans for Data Centers in SpaceSpaceX has acquired Elon Musk's AI company xAI in what could be valued at $1-1.5 trillion, creating a vertically integrated entity combining rockets, satellites, AI, and the X platform. The merger aims to build space-based data centers powered by solar energy to train AI models more cost-effectively than Earth-based facilities, with Musk projecting space-based compute will be the lowest-cost option within 2-3 years.Read more →
Engadget...Obsidian has no plans to make The Outer Worlds 3, likely due to poor salesObsidian Entertainment has cancelled plans for The Outer Worlds 3, citing disappointing performance of the sequel and a need to reassess development spending and timelines. The studio is refocusing on DLC support for existing titles and plans to continue the Avowed franchise, while acknowledging that releasing three games in one year strained resources and impacted quality.Read more →
Gizmodo...While the World Waits for ‘Doctor Who’ to Return, the BBC Is Selling Off Some Major PropsThe BBC has announced an online auction of over 300 Doctor Who props and costumes from across the show's history, spanning from David Tennant's Tenth Doctor through Ncuti Gatwa's Fifteenth Doctor. The auction, running through February 19 with lots starting at £100, includes iconic items such as screen-matched TARDISes, Cybermen, Daleks, and memorable character costumes, with 20% of proceeds supporting BBC Children in Need.Read more →
The Verge...Apple’s Xcode adds OpenAI and Anthropic’s coding agentsDevelopers can now leverage Anthropic's Claude Agent and OpenAI's Codex to automate actions within Xcode, enhancing development productivity through AI-assisted code generation and task automation. This integration enables developers to delegate routine coding tasks and actions directly within their development environment.Read more →
TechCrunch...2026 plans: What’s next for Startup Battlefield 200TechCrunch Startup Battlefield 200 is opening applications for its 2026 cohort, a highly selective program that selects 200 early-stage startups globally to gain visibility, investor access, and networking opportunities. The program offers free exhibit space, direct press and investor exposure, and a chance to compete for a $100,000 equity-free prize, with alumni including major successes like Dropbox, Discord, and Cloudflare that have collectively raised over $32 billion.Read more →
TechCrunch...Homeland Security is trying to force tech companies to hand over data about Trump criticsThe Department of Homeland Security has been using administrative subpoenas to demand tech companies reveal the identities of individuals running anonymous social media accounts critical of the Trump administration and documenting immigration enforcement activities. Unlike judicial subpoenas, these administrative demands bypass court oversight and have targeted activists, protesters, and documented immigration critics, with companies including Meta and Google pushing back against the requests.Read more →
Gizmodo...CDC Refuses to Take Blame for Measles Spiraling out of ControlThe United States is experiencing a measles resurgence with over 2,220 cases in 2024 and 847 ongoing cases in South Carolina, with three deaths reported. The CDC is downplaying the outbreak despite declining vaccination rates under RFK Jr.'s leadership, who has actively worked to restrict vaccine access and undermine public health agencies.Read more →
TechCrunch...Skyryse lands another $300M to make flying, even helicopters, simple and safeSkyryse, an aviation automation startup, raised over $300 million in Series C funding, achieving unicorn status with a $1.15 billion valuation. The capital will accelerate its FAA certification process for SkyOS, a flight control system that automates complex flying tasks while requiring pilot oversight, and enable integration across military helicopters and other aircraft.Read more →
Gizmodo...It’s Monster on Monster on Monster in the New ‘Monarch’ Season 2 TrailerMonarch: Legacy of Monsters season two introduces Titan X, a mysterious and powerful new creature emerging from the ocean that threatens both Godzilla and King Kong. The season explores how this ancient force impacts the world and the relationships between characters across two generations as they attempt to stop this existential threat.Read more →
CNET...iPhone Fold: Launch Date, Price, Huge Battery and Everything We KnowApple is rumored to be developing a foldable iPhone with a book-style design that could launch in 2026, featuring a crease-free 7.8-inch inner display and potentially 12GB of RAM. If released, the device could significantly boost the foldable phone market, with analysts forecasting 30% year-over-year growth, though its $2,000-$2,500 price tag positions it at the premium end of the foldable market.Read more →
The Verge...The best deals on MacBooks right nowApple's latest MacBook lineup, featuring M4 and M5 processors with increased base RAM configurations, is now available with various discounts ranging from $50 to $300 off across different models. The newest M4 MacBook Air starts at a lower price than its predecessor while offering improved performance and doubled base RAM, while M4 and M5 MacBook Pro models include enhanced connectivity features and upgraded webcams.Read more →
CNET...Winter Olympics 2026: How to Watch the Games Without CableThe 2026 Winter Olympics will take place in Milan and Cortina d'Ampezzo, Italy from February 4-22, featuring the most geographically spread competition in Winter Olympic history. Major streaming options in the US include Peacock with 4K coverage and NBC's linear broadcasts across multiple networks, with all events available live and on-demand.Read more →
TechCrunch...Agentic coding comes to Apple’s Xcode with agents from Anthropic and OpenAIApple released Xcode 26.3 with integrated agentic coding tools, including Claude Agent and OpenAI's Codex, enabling AI models to perform complex development tasks directly within the IDE. The agents can explore projects, understand structure, build code, run tests, and fix errors with full access to Apple's documentation and transparent step-by-step task breakdown for developers.Read more →
TechCrunch...Xcode moves into agentic coding with deeper OpenAI and Anthropic integrationsApple has released Xcode 26.3 with integrated agentic coding capabilities, allowing developers to use Claude Agent and OpenAI's Codex directly in the IDE to automate tasks like project exploration, building, testing, and code generation. The integration uses the Model Context Protocol (MCP) to provide agents access to Xcode's features, documentation, and developer frameworks, with transparent step-by-step task breakdown and easy code reversion.Read more →
TechCrunch...Gradient’s heat pumps get new smarts to enable old building retrofitsGradient, a startup, has developed networked window-mounted heat pumps with new Nexus software that allows building managers to control temperature across multifamily buildings, reducing energy consumption while maintaining comfort. The solution targets older buildings with outdated HVAC systems, offering quick installation without electrical upgrades and enabling grid demand response to support broader electrification efforts.Read more →
Gizmodo...Is Lead Exposure Really Declining? A Century of Hair Holds the AnswerResearchers analyzed hair samples from Utah spanning 100 years to track lead exposure, finding that lead levels were approximately 100 times higher before the EPA's establishment in 1970 compared to after environmental regulations were implemented. The study demonstrates the dramatic effectiveness of EPA regulations in reducing environmental lead contamination, with concentrations dropping from 100 parts per million in the 1970s to below 1 ppm by recent decades.Read more →
Engadget...Sony's WH-1000XM6 headphones are down to a record-low priceSony's WH-1000XM6 wireless headphones are available at a record-low price of $398 on Amazon, down $62 from the original $460 asking price. The headphones feature advanced active noise cancellation with 12 microphones, new audio drivers for superior sound quality, a comfortable design, and approximately 30 hours of battery life.Read more →
TechCrunch...Watch Club is producing short video dramas and building a social network around themWatch Club, founded by former Meta product manager Henry Soong, is launching a microdrama app that differentiates itself from competitors like ReelShort and DramaBox by featuring content created by SAG and WGA union talent and embedding social networking features to foster fan communities. The startup secured seed funding led by GV and aims to prove that high-quality storytelling can compete with existing microdrama apps that generate billions in revenue through formulaic, AI-adjacent content.Read more →
Engadget...Fitbit founders launch Luffu, a way to integrate your family's health dataFitbit's former founders James Park and Eric Friedman launched Luffu, a new mobile app that uses AI to aggregate and manage family health information across multiple generations. The platform targets family caregivers managing health data for children, aging parents, and pets, with features including voice/text/photo logging, plain language queries, and integration with existing health platforms like Apple Health.Read more →
CNET...Best Sports Streaming Service for 2026This CNET guide compares major sports streaming services available in 2026, including YouTube TV, Peacock, Hulu Plus Live TV, ESPN Unlimited, DirecTV, Fubo, Sling TV, and Paramount Plus. Sports fans must subscribe to multiple services to access all desired games due to fragmented broadcasting rights, though services offer flexibility with no long-term contracts and various pricing tiers.Read more →
Gizmodo...Jupiter’s New Measurements: Flatter, Squashed, Still the Biggest BoyNew measurements from NASA's Juno spacecraft reveal that Jupiter is approximately 5 miles slimmer at the equator and 15 miles flatter at the poles than previously estimated based on 1970s Pioneer and Voyager data. These refined measurements, which account for Jupiter's atmospheric dynamics, improve scientific models of the planet's interior and have implications for studying gas giants throughout the solar system.Read more →
Gizmodo...The Director of ‘Wall-E’ Has a New Movie That Looks Like a Mini ‘Cloud Atlas’Director Andrew Stanton's live-action film 'In the Blink of an Eye,' starring Rashida Jones and Kate McKinnon, follows three interconnected storylines spanning millennia and explores themes of hope and human connection. The film is bypassing theatrical release for a direct-to-streaming debut on Hulu and Disney+, arriving later this month despite receiving mixed reviews at Sundance Film Festival.Read more →
TechCrunch...Lotus Health nabs $35M for AI doctor that sees patients for freeLotus Health AI, a free AI-powered primary care platform launched in May 2024, raised $35 million in Series A funding to expand its telemedicine service that operates in 50 states and 50 languages. The platform uses AI to conduct initial diagnoses and generate treatment plans, with board-certified physicians from top institutions like Stanford and Harvard reviewing all medical decisions before implementation, addressing AI hallucination risks while dramatically increasing patient capacity.Read more →
The Verge...French police raid X's Paris office as UK investigation continuesParis prosecutors have summoned Elon Musk and Linda Yaccarino to testify as investigations into Grok, X's AI chatbot, expand. The summons indicates escalating legal scrutiny into the AI system's operations and potential regulatory violations.Read more →
CNET...Google Pixel 10A Rumors: Everything We Know So FarGoogle's Pixel 10A budget smartphone is rumored to launch in mid-February with four color options. The device is expected to feature a boosted Tensor G4 processor from the Pixel 9 line rather than the newer Tensor G5, differentiating it from the flagship Pixel 10 while maintaining a flat design without a raised camera bump.Read more →
Engadget...The best gifts for coffee lovers in 2026This article is a gift guide featuring premium coffee brewing equipment and accessories for enthusiasts, ranging from budget-friendly options like cold brew makers to high-end espresso machines and smart brewers. The recommendations emphasize quality construction, brewing versatility, and innovative features designed to enhance the at-home coffee experience.Read more →
The Verge...The Switch is Nintendo's best-selling console — and its most transformativeNintendo's Switch console has become the company's best-selling console ever with 155 million units sold, enabling it to consolidate its game development divisions and produce consistent hit titles. Leveraging this success, Nintendo has expanded into film, theme parks, and entertainment ventures, transforming itself from primarily a gaming company into a broader entertainment conglomerate similar to Disney and Netflix.Read more →
Engadget...How much do VPNs cost?This article provides a comprehensive pricing analysis of virtual private networks, showing that monthly VPN subscriptions average $11.77 while yearly plans average $57.69. The article explains that VPN pricing varies due to subscription length, infrastructure maintenance costs, and competitive positioning, while warning against free VPNs due to security risks and data privacy concerns.Read more →
TechCrunch...French police search X office in Paris, summons Elon Musk for questioningFrench police and Europol conducted a raid on X's Paris office as part of an investigation into alleged fraudulent data extraction and misuse of the platform's Grok AI system for generating non-consensual imagery, including child abuse material. The investigation has expanded to include charges of data privacy violations, distribution of child sexual abuse material, and Holocaust denial, with Elon Musk and former CEO Linda Yaccarino scheduled for questioning.Read more →
TechCrunch...French police search X office in Paris, summon Elon Musk for questioningFrench police and Europol raided X's Paris office as part of an investigation into alleged fraudulent data extraction and expanded allegations including child sexual abuse material distribution and privacy violations. The investigation intensified following widespread criticism of X's Grok AI being used to generate nonconsensual imagery, with Elon Musk and former CEO Linda Yaccarino scheduled for questioning in April.Read more →
Gizmodo...More Corruption Allegations Levied at Trump Over Newly Revealed UAE Crypto DealAn investment firm linked to UAE National Security Adviser Sheikh Tahnoon bin Zayed Al Nahyan invested $500 million in Trump-affiliated crypto venture World Liberty Financial, with $187 million already received by Trump family entities. The deal has drawn corruption allegations from U.S. lawmakers, particularly given the UAE's simultaneous acquisition of advanced Nvidia AI chips after the Biden administration had previously blocked such sales on national security grounds.Read more →
Gizmodo...Nothing May Drop a Cheaper Phone and Headphones SoonNothing is preparing to launch the Headphone A, a budget-friendly headphone model priced at 159 euros (roughly half the cost of Headphone 1), alongside the Phone 4a and 4a Pro smartphones scheduled for March 5 announcement. The new devices will feature design updates, storage improvements, and battery enhancements, though prices for the phones are expected to increase from previous generation models.Read more →
Engadget...Disney announces Josh D’Amaro will be its new CEO after Iger departsDisney has announced Josh D'Amaro, current chairman of Disney Experiences, as the successor to CEO Bob Iger effective in March. D'Amaro brings 28 years of Disney experience overseeing theme parks, cruises, and consumer products, following a leadership search that began in 2023 after Bob Iger's return to the CEO role in 2022.Read more →
Gizmodo...Stephen Colbert’s ‘Starfleet Academy’ Role Is Driving Me NutsThe article critiques Stephen Colbert's recurring voice role as the Digital Dean of Students on Paramount+'s Starfleet Academy, arguing that while the show otherwise engages thoughtfully with Star Trek's legacy, Colbert's character feels superficial and relies on cheap reference humor that undermines the series' deeper approach to the franchise.Read more →
Gizmodo...Paris Authorities Raid the Offices of Elon Musk’s XEuropean authorities are escalating investigations into X following a raid on its Paris offices by prosecutors and Europol. The probe, which began examining algorithm manipulation and illegal data extraction, has expanded to include concerns about non-consensual sexual imagery involving minors, deepfakes, and Holocaust denial content, with summonses issued to Elon Musk and former CEO Linda Yaccarino for an April hearing.Read more →
TechCrunch...What tech CEOs and executives have said about ICE’s actions in MinnesotaThe Trump administration's immigration enforcement has resulted in multiple deaths, including U.S. citizens, prompting tech industry leaders to respond with varying degrees of criticism. While some executives like Reid Hoffman and Vinod Khosla have called for stronger opposition to ICE operations, others including Sam Altman and Tim Cook have taken more cautious stances despite their political influence.Read more →
CNET...An Expert Explains Why You Can Stop Worrying About How Much Protein You’re EatingA cardiologist explains that protein deficiency is nearly impossible in the US and that most Americans consume adequate protein through a typical diet without supplementation. The article emphasizes that excessive focus on protein goals often causes people to overlook more critical nutritional deficiencies like fiber, iron, and vitamin D, which are more prevalent among Americans.Read more →
Engadget...February’s Xbox Game Pass additions include High on Life 2, Madden NFL 26 and Avatar: Frontiers of PandoraMicrosoft announced the first wave of Xbox Game Pass additions for February, featuring over a dozen new games across multiple genres including Final Fantasy II, Like A Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii, Madden NFL 26, and Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora. The expanded library provides subscribers with diverse gaming options ranging from RPGs and sports titles to co-op adventures, all available at no additional cost.Read more →
The Verge...Claude Code was down, forcing developers to take a long coffee breakAnthropic's Claude AI models experienced a widespread outage affecting Claude Code and other services, causing 500 errors for developers. The company identified and resolved the issue within approximately 20 minutes, though the disruption impacted numerous developers relying on the service, including Microsoft's AI teams.Read more →
Engadget...Samsung Galaxy Unpacked 2026: Everything we're expecting from the S26 launchSamsung is expected to announce the Galaxy S26 lineup at Galaxy Unpacked on February 25, 2026, featuring incremental upgrades including Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chips, slightly larger displays, and improved AI capabilities through partnerships with Perplexity. The event will also showcase the Galaxy Buds 4, Galaxy S26 Edge, and likely highlight the recently launched Galaxy Z TriFold foldable device.Read more →
Engadget...The Dyson PencilVac is finally available and costs $600Dyson's PencilVac stick vacuum is now available in the US for $600, featuring an innovative motor design inspired by the company's Supersonic hair dryer that allows it to be the world's slimmest vacuum cleaner. The device integrates all components including the motor, bin, and filter into a thin cylindrical shaft, with interchangeable attachments and a swappable battery lasting approximately one hour.Read more →
The Verge...I didn’t expect to love Dyson’s PencilVac Fluffycones – but I didDyson's new PencilVac Fluffycones is an exceptionally slim and lightweight cordless stick vacuum priced at $599, featuring a pencil-thin design and innovative fluffy cone rollers that make it highly maneuverable for touch-ups and stairs. While it excels at handling light debris and hard-to-reach areas, its limited suction power and 20-30 minute runtime make it unsuitable as a primary whole-home cleaner, positioning it instead as a stylish complement to robot vacuums.Read more →
Engadget...MSI Prestige 14 Flip AI+ review: An ultraportable for Arc Raiders, thanks to Intel's Panther LakeThe MSI Prestige 14 Flip AI+ is a lightweight ultraportable laptop featuring Intel's new Panther Lake processor with strong gaming and productivity performance, exceptional 22-hour battery life, and versatile 2-in-1 design, but is significantly hindered by a poor mechanical trackpad and keyboard quality. Despite these input device shortcomings, it represents a competitive alternative to Apple's M-series hardware for users seeking gaming capability in a thin-and-light form factor.Read more →
TechCrunch...TikTok recovers from dip in usage that benefited rival apps following U.S. ownership changeTikTok briefly lost users following its ownership change to American investors, with daily active users dropping to 86-88 million from a typical 92 million, prompting some to try alternatives like UpScrolled and Skylight Social. The decline was driven by privacy policy concerns and a data center outage that caused functionality issues, but most users returned once outages resolved and fears subsided, with TikTok recovering to over 90 million daily active users.Read more →
Engadget...The first BTS concert in over three years will stream live on Netflix in MarchNetflix will broadcast BTS's first live performance in nearly four years on March 21, streaming the concert from Seoul's Gwanghwamun Square alongside the group's new album release 'Arirang.' The platform will also premiere a documentary 'BTS: The Return' on March 27, providing behind-the-scenes access to the band's comeback following their military service hiatus.Read more →
TechCrunch...Fitbit founders launch AI platform to help families monitor their healthFitbit founders James Park and Eric Friedman launched Luffu, an AI-powered family health monitoring platform designed to help caregivers track and coordinate health information across family members. The system aggregates health data from multiple sources and uses AI to detect patterns and flag important changes, addressing the growing needs of the 63 million American family caregivers.Read more →
The Verge...Apple’s tiny but mighty iPad Mini is $100 off in every storage configurationApple's iPad Mini is currently discounted to $399 for the 128GB Wi-Fi model, representing a significant savings and near all-time low pricing. The 8.3-inch tablet offers portability comparable to a smartphone, features the A17 Pro chip for multitasking and light gaming, supports Apple Pencil Pro and Apple Intelligence features, making it an attractive mid-size tablet option.Read more →
CNET...These 5 Vital Minerals and Vitamins Will Keep Your Heart Functioning and HealthyDuring American Heart Month, the article reviews vitamins and minerals that may support heart health, including omega-3s, fiber, magnesium, CoQ10, and folic acid. While supplements can help, medical professionals emphasize that obtaining these nutrients through a balanced diet rich in seafood, leafy greens, and whole grains is the most effective approach, with supplementation recommended only after consulting a healthcare provider.Read more →
Engadget...Notepad++ says it was hijacked by Chinese state-sponsored hackersNotepad++ creator revealed that a supply chain attack compromising the editor's update mechanism from June to December 2025 was perpetrated by a Chinese state-sponsored group. The attackers hijacked the hosting provider to selectively redirect certain users to malicious servers, delivering compromised executables that could infect devices.Read more →
CNET...Darren Aronofsky, Your AI Slop Is Ruining American History in 'On This Day…1776'Darren Aronofsky's new AI-generated video series 'On This Day…1776' uses generative AI tools to recreate American Revolution moments, but the result is criticized as soulless AI-generated content with waxy faces, poor lip-syncing, and heavy-handed editing that prioritizes technical showmanship over meaningful storytelling. The series raises questions about AI's role in creative industries and whether blending AI tools with human talent can produce genuine art rather than superficial 'AI slop.'Read more →
The Verge...Millions of books died so Claude could liveChatGPT's November 2022 launch sparked an industry-wide race to develop competitive AI technology, with companies like Anthropic undertaking massive efforts such as 'Project Panama' to digitize books for training large language models, raising significant legal and ethical questions about data sourcing. The episode also discusses Netflix's bid to acquire Warner Bros. and its impact on theatrical releases, plus updates on smart home device compatibility issues.Read more →
Gizmodo...Trump Admin Sued For Defunding the “Most Important Infrastructure Project in the Country”The Gateway Development Commission is suing the Trump administration for withholding $15 billion in federal funding for the Hudson Tunnel project, a critical infrastructure initiative connecting Manhattan and New Jersey. The funding pause, attributed to a review of diversity-related hiring practices, has forced the project to rely on reserves and threatens 11,000 jobs and passenger rail operations if construction halts by Friday.Read more →
Engadget...Spain set to ban social media for children under 16Spain will ban social media access for users under 16 and implement strict regulations on tech platforms, including effective age verification systems and criminal liability for CEOs regarding illegal content. Prime Minister Sanchez cited social media's role in hate speech, child exploitation, and election interference, positioning the ban as necessary protection for young users and part of a broader European governance movement.Read more →
Gizmodo...This May Be the Oldest Known Victim of a Bear Attack—and It’s BrutalResearchers have reinforced evidence that a Gravettian adolescent found in Italy 27,900 years ago, known as 'Il Principe,' was killed by a bear attack, making it potentially the oldest known fatal encounter between humans and wild animals. New analysis of skeletal remains reveals multiple perimortem injuries including mandibular fractures, shoulder trauma, and tooth/skull damage consistent with a mauling, with the individual surviving briefly afterward before succumbing to injuries.Read more →
CNET...Watch These Super Bowl 2026 Ads Before the Big GameThis article previews Super Bowl LX advertisements from various brands including Uber Eats, Pepsi, Svedka, Toyota, and others, highlighting celebrity appearances and creative themes. Notable ads feature Matthew McConaughey and Bradley Cooper, a Svedka vodka commercial created primarily with AI, and various nostalgic and family-oriented campaigns launching around the February 8 game date.Read more →
Gizmodo...Disney’s Theme Parks Chief Is Now Running the Whole ShowDisney appointed Josh D'Amaro as its next CEO effective March 18, 2026, transitioning Bob Iger to an advisory role before his year-end retirement. D'Amaro, who previously led Disney's Experiences division overseeing theme parks, consumer products, and creative ventures, will oversee major 2026 theatrical releases and Disney's new AI integration partnership with OpenAI.Read more →
Engadget...Amazon's Echo Show 8 and 11 are down to new all-time lowsAmazon has reduced prices on its latest Echo Show devices, with the Echo Show 8 dropping to $150 (17% off) and the Echo Show 11 to $180 (18% off), marking new all-time lows. Both devices feature larger screens than their predecessors, custom AI sensors, and enhanced audio capabilities including spatial audio and improved drivers.Read more →
The Verge...China is banning hidden electric door handles for EVsChina is banning Tesla-style concealed door handles on electric vehicles to address safety concerns regarding people getting trapped inside their cars. The ban will take effect on January 1st next year, according to the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology's announcement, and will require all vehicles sold in China to have mechanical release door handles […]Read more →
Gizmodo...Ian McKellen May Have Revealed a Big Magneto Moment in ‘Avengers: Doomsday’This article covers various entertainment industry updates including news about upcoming film and television projects such as the Highlander remake with Henry Cavill, the It Follows sequel in development, and new episodes of Mystery Science Theater 3000 that have exceeded crowdfunding goals. The piece also reports on production announcements for The Institute season two and the upcoming release of A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms episodes.Read more →
The Verge...Fitbit’s founders launch a new platform for monitoring your entire family’s healthFitbit co-founders James Park and Eric Friedman have launched Luffu, an AI-powered family health management system that aggregates medical data from connected devices, health platforms, and family inputs to provide personalized health insights and alerts. The platform uses AI to automatically organize health information, answer family-specific health questions, and proactively monitor for medication adherence and potential health concerns.Read more →
Gizmodo...Well, Astronauts Won’t Be Going Back to the Moon This MonthNASA's Artemis 2 mission has been delayed from its February 8 target launch date due to a liquid hydrogen leak detected during the wet dress rehearsal countdown. The agency will now target March 2025 as the earliest possible launch window, allowing teams time to address the hydrogen leak and other technical issues identified during testing.Read more →
The Verge...Humans are infiltrating the Reddit for AI botsMoltbook, a new social platform designed for AI agents, experienced explosive growth but faced scrutiny when security researchers discovered that many viral posts were likely human-engineered rather than genuinely autonomous AI behavior. The platform also revealed critical security vulnerabilities that could allow attackers to hijack AI agents and access their connected functions and data.Read more →
TechCrunch...PayPal hires HP’s Enrique Lores as its new CEOPayPal hired HP's Enrique Lores as CEO to replace Alex Chriss, citing execution gaps against board expectations amid market headwinds. The leadership change follows disappointing Q4 results with lower-than-expected revenue and profit, triggering a 17.9% premarket stock decline.Read more →
TechCrunch...Peak XV says internal disagreement led to partner exits as it doubles down on AIPeak XV Partners, a major Southeast Asian venture capital firm, experienced senior leadership departures including long-tenured partners who are starting a competing venture firm, amid the company's strategic pivot toward AI investing and U.S. expansion. The departures follow a standout year for Peak XV's portfolio with five companies going public and generating over $3 billion in unrealized gains, while the firm simultaneously promotes internal talent and strengthens its AI-focused investment thesis.Read more →
The Verge...Disney says Josh D'Amaro will replace Bob Iger as CEODisney has picked a successor for longtime CEO Bob Iger. On Tuesday, the entertainment giant announced that its theme parks head, Josh D'Amaro, will take over as CEO on March 18th, 2026. Rumors about Iger's replacement have been swirling for more than a year now. After a 15-year-long tenure as Disney's CEO, Iger returned from […]Read more →
CNET...I Bought the Galaxy Z TriFold for Over $3,000. Follow Along as I Test It (Live Updates)A CNET journalist successfully purchased Samsung's Galaxy Z TriFold during its US launch, which sold out almost immediately at $2,900 despite extremely limited supply. The reviewer will evaluate the foldable phone's practical usability as a phone-tablet hybrid over time.Read more →
The Verge...Call of Duty tries to block XIM and Cronus cheaters againActivision has shifted its anti-cheat detection approach to monitor actual player inputs rather than identifying third-party devices being used. This method aims to catch cheaters through their suspicious input patterns while reducing false positives from legitimate device users.Read more →
CNET...I Stuck My Face Into Nintendo's New Virtual Boy and Felt Oddly ComfortedNintendo is reviving the Virtual Boy as a $100 tabletop viewer accessory for the Nintendo Switch, allowing players to experience retro 3D games from the original 1995 console. The new Virtual Boy requires a Switch Online and Expansion Pack subscription and will launch with 14 games, offering a surprisingly comfortable and immersive experience despite its niche appeal and high cost.Read more →
Gizmodo...Nintendo’s Virtual Boy Recreation Reminds Us Gaming Doesn’t Have to Be FunNintendo has released a $100 Virtual Boy accessory for the Switch 2 that recreates the original 1995 virtual reality console experience with modern conveniences, featuring seven launch titles including Wario Land and 3D Tetris. The accessory uses the Switch's LCD screen with stereoscopic imaging and red-tinted lenses to simulate the original's 3D effect, positioning itself as a historical time capsule rather than a modern gaming experience.Read more →
CNET...Nintendo's Annoying Talking Flower Actually Out-Talked Me (and That's Saying Something)Nintendo is releasing a Talking Flower toy for $35 on March 12, a simple sound-making device with prerecorded messages that can tell time and measure temperature. The toy functions as a novelty item rather than an ambitious smart device, featuring a single button interface and limited interactive capabilities.Read more →
Gizmodo...‘The Muppet Show’ Returns for a Cute and Nostalgic SpecialABC and Disney+ have produced a one-off Muppet Show special featuring pop star Sabrina Carpenter, celebrating the franchise's 50-year legacy with familiar variety show format and classic characters. The special successfully balances nostalgia with contemporary humor, though its 30-minute runtime leaves audiences wanting more and suggests potential for future revival.Read more →
Gizmodo...Nintendo’s 2026 Games Lineup Is Odd, but Not as Odd as the Wonder FlowerNintendo is launching new multiplayer-focused games for early 2026, including Mario Tennis Fever and Super Mario Bros. Wonder Switch 2 Edition, emphasizing local co-op experiences with substantial character and item rosters. The company faces pressure from investors regarding hardware costs and supply chain issues, with limited tentpole releases to drive console sales in the coming months.Read more →
The Verge...Fortnite is about to get a lot more gaming crossoversEpic Games is expanding a crossover program that offers Fortnite cosmetics to players who purchase games on the Epic Games Store, targeting over 100 partnerships annually to drive platform adoption and increase player spending. The initiative comes as Epic's PC gaming platform reached record metrics with $400 million in third-party game spending and 78 million monthly active users, while the company plans launcher improvements to address performance criticism.Read more →
CNET...You Can Watch All the ‘Mission: Impossible’ Movies on One Convenient App. Here’s HowThis article provides a comprehensive guide to the Mission: Impossible film franchise, which spans 8 movies from 1996 to 2025. It details where to stream each film across various platforms including Paramount Plus, Prime Video, and free ad-supported services, while noting that most films can be watched as standalones.Read more →
CNET...Best Ring Video Doorbells of 2026: All the Latest Ring FeatuersCNET provides a comprehensive review of Ring video doorbells, highlighting their advanced AI features like video summaries and pet detection capabilities. The article evaluates multiple Ring doorbell models ranging from budget options to premium 4K versions, helping consumers choose the right device based on their specific needs and installation requirements.Read more →
Engadget...Mario Tennis Fever preview: A racket-smashing blastMario Tennis Fever introduces a new Fever Shot mechanic using interchangeable rackets with unique special abilities, replacing the Zone Shot system from previous titles. The new system includes built-in counterplay that allows opponents to volley back Fever Shots, creating more balanced and dynamic gameplay compared to earlier Mario Tennis games.Read more →
Engadget...The Switch 2's Virtual Boy is a tribute to Nintendo's wackiest consoleNintendo is reviving the Virtual Boy as a Switch 2 accessory, maintaining the original's iconic red-and-black design while modernizing key components like using the Switch 2's display and battery instead of built-in hardware. Despite updates to the hardware, the games remain largely unchanged from the original 1995 releases, offering an eccentric nostalgic experience that showcases outdated 1990s VR concepts rather than contemporary gaming standards.Read more →
Engadget...NASA moves Artemis 2 launch to March after hydrogen leak during testingNASA postponed the Artemis 2 mission's launch window from February to March after encountering a liquid hydrogen leak and other technical issues during a wet dress rehearsal on February 3. The agency identified multiple challenges including pressurization delays and communication problems that must be resolved before the next test and final launch confirmation.Read more →
CNET...Career Chefs Reveal the 8 Most Underrated Tools in Their KitchensThis article discusses overlooked kitchen tools recommended by professional chefs, including microplane zesters for citrus preparation, mortars and pestles for grinding herbs and spices, fish forks for delicate handling, chinoise strainers for refined sauces, sous vide cookers and OCOO machines for precision cooking, coconut graters for fresh preparation, serrated knives for meat slicing, and ring molds for uniform shaping. These tools collectively elevate home cooking by enabling professional techniques and improving food quality and texture.Read more →
The Verge...Google Home finally adds support for buttonsGoogle has released an update enabling programmable switches and buttons to function within its smart home platform, expanding device compatibility and control options. This enhancement allows users to integrate customizable button controls into their Google smart home ecosystem for improved automation and accessibility.Read more →
Engadget...TurboTax Deluxe is on sale for $45 before tax seasonTurboTax is currently offering significant discounts on its tax software, with the Deluxe desktop edition reduced by 44% to $35 off the regular $80 price, available through Amazon. The free government Direct File service has been discontinued for 2026, making commercial tax software options like TurboTax more necessary for most filers, though the IRS Free File program remains available for qualifying taxpayers.Read more →
Engadget...The 8BitDo Pro 3 Bluetooth Controller is down to a new all-time lowThe 8Bitdo Pro 3 Bluetooth Controller is currently on sale for $48, a 31% discount from its $70 retail price, representing the lowest price available since its August launch. The controller features TMR Joysticks, swappable magnetic buttons for different console layouts, programmable paddle buttons, and an integrated charging dock, offering broad compatibility across Apple, Android, PC, Nintendo Switch, and Switch 2 platforms.Read more →
Engadget...Save on the Disney+ and Hulu bundle: Get one month for only $10Disney is offering new and returning subscribers one month of the ad-supported Disney+ and Hulu bundle for $10, representing a $3 discount from the regular price. The bundle provides access to Disney's family content, Marvel franchises, and Star Wars alongside Hulu's adult-oriented programming and next-day network TV episodes.Read more →
CNET...Every iPhone 17E Rumor and Leak So Far: Dynamic Island, MagSafe and MoreApple's upcoming iPhone 17E is rumored to launch in February 2026 with significant feature upgrades including MagSafe wireless charging, Dynamic Island display, and a design closer to the iPhone 15, positioning it as a more compelling budget option. The device is expected to maintain pricing similar to the current iPhone 16E while addressing previous limitations that made the $599 budget model feel oddly positioned without key features like MagSafe.Read more →
Gizmodo...One of ‘Star Wars’ Biggest Recent Reveals Was Inspired by ‘Lord of the Rings’The Art of Star Wars: The Acolyte book reveals that series creator Leslye Headland drew inspiration from The Lord of the Rings' Gollum reveal when introducing Darth Plagueis in the 2024 Disney+ series, using minimal lighting and mysterious framing to hint at the character's presence. VFX supervisor Julian Foddy notes the design focused on subtle visual cues—such as elongated fingers and shadowy glimpses—to suggest an inhuman threat without fully exposing the character, leaving room for potential future Star Wars stories.Read more →
The Verge...Aluminium: Why Google’s Android for PC launch may be messy and controversialGoogle's upcoming Aluminium OS, which combines Android and ChromeOS, won't launch until 2028 according to court documents, despite earlier hopeful statements about a 2026 release. The delayed timeline, hardware incompatibility requirements, and exemptions from antitrust restrictions raise concerns about whether Aluminium could become a vehicle for Google to maintain and extend its monopoly power over search and app distribution.Read more →
CNET...These Are the 5 Best 55-Inch TVs in 2026This CNET article provides comprehensive guidance on selecting a 55-inch television, comparing leading models across different price tiers including the Hisense U8N for overall value, LG OLED options for premium quality, and Samsung S95D for best-in-class image performance. The article emphasizes CNET's rigorous testing methodology using specialized lab equipment and offers practical buying advice regarding screen size, pricing, and key features like local dimming and refresh rates.Read more →
The Verge...YouTube now blocking background playback on mobile browsersYouTube has started to block third-party mobile browsers from using a background playback loophole. Background playback is supposed to be limited to YouTube Premium subscribers through the official iOS or Android app, but many people have been using browsers like Brave, Vivaldi, and Edge to get background playback without a subscription. Not anymore. "Background playback […]Read more →
TechCrunch...India’s Supreme Court to WhatsApp: ‘You cannot play with the right to privacy’India's Supreme Court sharply rebuked Meta over WhatsApp's data privacy practices, with judges questioning how users can meaningfully consent to data-sharing when WhatsApp functions as a market monopoly. The court blocked any data sharing between Meta and WhatsApp pending appeal and demanded detailed explanations of how the platform monetizes user behavioral data for advertising and AI functions.Read more →
The Verge...The Model S changed everythingTesla discontinues the Model S after 14 years, marking the end of an era for the vehicle that revolutionized the automotive industry by making electric vehicles desirable and spurring global EV adoption. While the Model S achieved iconic status and influenced design across the industry, Tesla has since pivoted toward robotics and AI, with competitors now matching or exceeding its luxury offerings as EV market growth slows.Read more →
Engadget...Proton VPN two-year subscriptions are 70 percent off right nowProton VPN is offering a significant promotional discount on its two-year Plus plan at $2.99 per month ($72 upfront), representing a 70 percent reduction from regular pricing. The service is noted for strong privacy protections, fast performance with minimal speed loss, and comprehensive features including 15,000+ servers, support for 10 devices, and advanced security capabilities like ad blocking and encrypted double-hop connections.Read more →
TechCrunch...Vema predicts cheap hydrogen could change where data centers are builtVema Hydrogen is developing a novel method to produce hydrogen by drilling into iron-rich rock formations and treating them with water, heat, and catalysts, aiming to supply data centers and industrial users with clean hydrogen at under $1 per kilogram. The startup has completed a pilot project in Quebec and plans to expand commercial operations, potentially positioning California as a hub for hydrogen-powered data centers due to its abundant ophiolite rock formations.Read more →
Engadget...The Morning After: Elon Musk’s SpaceX is buying his AI company, xAISpaceX has acquired xAI to create a vertically integrated innovation engine, with plans to build resource-intensive AI data centers in space that could eventually support lunar bases and Mars colonization. The acquisition also gives SpaceX ownership of X (formerly Twitter), which merged with xAI last year.Read more →
CNET...The Apple Watch vs. Oura Ring Debate for Me Comes Down to One FeatureThis review compares the Oura Ring 4 and Apple Watch Series 11, concluding they are complementary rather than direct competitors. The Oura Ring excels at long-term health trend analysis and subtle change detection with week-long battery life, while the Apple Watch dominates fitness tracking and daily connectivity. The choice depends on individual priorities, though the reviewer ultimately prefers the Apple Watch for its fitness capabilities and everyday utility.Read more →
CNET...Considering a Brand-New Fridge? Here's How Much Energy a New Model SavesModern energy-efficient refrigerators significantly reduce electricity costs over their lifespan, with side-by-side models saving an average of $340 over 10 years compared to 2016 models, while bottom freezers save $272 and top freezers save $83. Regional electricity rates substantially impact these savings, with Hawaii and California residents seeing 51-160% higher savings than the national average, making the upgrade financially worthwhile for most refrigerator types except compact models which show minimal efficiency improvements.Read more →
CNET...Apple TV's 25 Best TV Shows You're Probably Not WatchingApple TV has rebranded by removing 'Plus' from its name and continues to expand its content library with critically acclaimed shows. The platform relies on word-of-mouth marketing rather than traditional promotion, featuring Emmy-winning programs like Severance, Ted Lasso, The Morning Show, and The Studio alongside acclaimed dramas and comedies from top talent.Read more →
CNET...Apple iPhone 18, iPhone Fold, Samsung Galaxy S26 and Other Phones We Expect in 2026This comprehensive article previews 2026 smartphone launches, highlighting Apple's potential iPhone Fold debut and split iPhone 18 launch strategy, Samsung's Galaxy S26 series with new slim Edge variant and upcoming Galaxy Z TriFold US release, and flagship camera-focused models from Google, Xiaomi, Vivo, and Oppo. The year is expected to deliver significant innovations in foldable technology and imaging capabilities rather than incremental upgrades.Read more →
Gizmodo...Neil Gaiman Denies the Allegations Against Him (Again) While Announcing a New BookNeil Gaiman has issued a new statement denying sexual misconduct allegations against him, maintaining his innocence and citing email, text, and video evidence. Following the suspension of multiple TV projects tied to the allegations, including Netflix's The Sandman and Good Omens season three, Gaiman has redirected his efforts to writing and announced a major new novel described as his biggest project since American Gods.Read more →
The Verge...A community organizer's guide to Signal group chatsSignal messaging app has become widely used for organizing community groups due to its privacy and encryption features. The article provides comprehensive guidance on Signal's privacy settings, best practices for secure group communications, and clarifies that First Amendment rights remain protected when using the platform for lawful community organizing.Read more →
Engadget...X's Paris HQ raided by French prosecutorsParis prosecutors are investigating X's algorithms for allegedly manipulating content prominence and distorting automated data processing systems, with searches conducted at X's offices and summonses issued to Elon Musk and Linda Yaccarino. The investigation, which began in January 2025, also includes charges related to fraudulent data extraction and alleged child exploitation content generated by Grok, raising concerns about algorithmic transparency and platform governance.Read more →
CNET...Flashback One35 V2 Review: A Digital Camera That Thinks It's a Disposable Film CameraThe Flashback One35 is a retro-styled digital camera that mimics the form factor and experience of disposable film cameras from the 1980s-90s, featuring a 13-megapixel sensor, a 24-hour photo development timer, and a film advance dial. Despite its nostalgic design and limited controls, it delivers surprisingly good image quality for its $120 price point and appeals to users seeking a simplified, distraction-free photography experience.Read more →
CNET...We've Tested Dozens of Air Fryers. This Ninja Model Is Our Favorite by FarThe Ninja Crispi glass air fryer offers a modular design with transparent cooking vessels that allow progress monitoring without heat loss, making it CNET's top air fryer pick. Its nontoxic glass bowls eliminate concerns about nonstick coatings, provide easy cleaning, double as storage containers, and the unit breaks down compactly for storage and portability, representing a significant advancement in air fryer design.Read more →
The Verge...How to tear gas childrenThis article is not a technology news story and does not fall within the scope of the RSS feed's tech news categories. It is a detailed journalistic account of a labor union protest in Portland, Oregon that was dispersed with tear gas by ICE agents, focusing on eyewitness accounts and community impact rather than technology, business, or innovation topics.Read more →
TechCrunch...Avalanche thinks the fusion power industry should think smallerAvalanche, a nuclear fusion startup, is developing a compact desktop-scale fusion reactor using high-voltage electric currents instead of massive tokamaks or lasers. The company has raised $80 million and plans to achieve breakeven fusion (Q>1) by scaling its reactor from 9cm to 25cm diameter, with expectations of reaching major milestones between 2027-2029.Read more →
Engadget...The best iPhone 17 and iPhone 17 Pro cases for 2026This article provides a comprehensive guide to selecting iPhone 17 and iPhone 17 Pro cases, highlighting key features such as MagSafe compatibility, protective finishes, and camera lens protection. The guide compares case types including silicone versus hard cases, discusses protective brands like Otterbox, and addresses whether screen protectors are necessary despite the iPhone 17's Ceramic Shield 2 technology.Read more →
Gizmodo...Trump Announces Minerals Stockpile Way Too Late for It to Spare Him From Embarrassment by ChinaThe Trump administration announced Project Vault, a $12 billion strategic reserve of rare earth minerals to protect U.S. manufacturers from supply disruptions following China's export restrictions last year. The initiative, funded through $2 billion in private capital and a $10 billion bank loan, aims to prevent future price shocks and reduce dependence on China, which controls 69% of global rare earth mineral production.Read more →
Engadget...The Switch just surpassed the DS as Nintendo's best-selling console everNintendo's original Switch became the company's best-selling console with 155.37 million units sold, surpassing the DS and now trailing only the PS2 in all-time console sales. The Switch 2 has proven to be a massive success, becoming Nintendo's fastest-selling platform ever with strong holiday sales exceeding expectations and helping drive Q3 revenue to $5.2 billion.Read more →
Engadget...The best Bluetooth trackers for 2026This comprehensive guide compares the leading Bluetooth tracker options for 2026, including Apple AirTags, Google Find Hub compatible devices, and alternatives from Chipolo, Tile, and Samsung. The review evaluates trackers based on finding network size, separation alerts, sound volume, design, battery life, and security features, with testing results showing AirTags and Google Find Hub devices perform fastest for locating lost items.Read more →
The Verge...The Switch is now Nintendo’s best-selling console of all timeThe original Switch is officially Nintendo's best-selling console of all time after surpassing the DS handheld in lifetime sales. In its latest earnings release, Nintendo reports that the Nintendo Switch has, as of December 31, 2025, sold 155.37 million units since its launch in 2017, compared to 154.02 million units for the 2004 Nintendo DS. […]Read more →
Gizmodo...SpaceX and xAI Are Merging Into a Very Silly-Sounding Conglomerate. Take It SeriouslySpaceX is acquiring xAI, creating a vertically-integrated company combining rockets, satellites, AI, and Musk's social media platform X. The merger aims to develop space-based AI compute infrastructure, though critics question the strategic coherence of combining aerospace operations with Musk's controversial ventures.Read more →
CNET...Starlink Wi-Fi Now Available on a Quarter of All United Airlines FlightsUnited Airlines has equipped over 1,200 daily departures with Starlink Wi-Fi, with plans to reach 75% of its mainline fleet by end of 2026. The satellite-based service delivers home-quality internet enabling passengers to stream content freely, resulting in 100x higher data consumption compared to previous in-flight systems. Multiple international airlines are adopting Starlink, with additional carriers launching the service in 2026.Read more →
Gizmodo...Palantir Touts $2 Billion in Revenue from Aiding Trump Administration’s ‘Unusual’ OperationsPalantir reported record $1.855 billion in U.S. government revenue for 2025, with 55% year-over-year growth driven primarily by Department of Defense contracts and expanding civil agency work. The company's software is increasingly used across government operations including immigration enforcement, military targeting systems, and policy compliance, raising concerns about surveillance scope and the constitutional implications of AI-driven government decision-making.Read more →
TechCrunch...Fintech CEO and Forbes 30 Under 30 alum has been charged for alleged fraudGökçe Güven, founder of fintech startup Kalder and Forbes 30 Under 30 alumna, was charged with securities fraud, wire fraud, and identity theft after allegedly raising $7 million in April 2024 using a fraudulent pitch deck containing false client claims and inflated revenue figures. The DOJ alleges Güven maintained separate sets of financial books and used forged documents to obtain an extraordinary ability visa, continuing a troubling pattern of fraud among Forbes 30 Under 30 honorees.Read more →
Engadget...Crunchyroll increases prices for all anime streaming plansCrunchyroll is increasing prices across all subscription tiers by $2 per month, with the Fan tier now at $10/month, Mega Fan at $14/month, and Ultimate Fan at $18/month. The company is partially offsetting the increase by introducing offline viewing to the Fan tier, though limited to one device, and offering discounted annual pricing at $67 for new subscribers.Read more →
TechCrunch...Waymo raises $16B to scale robotaxi fleet internationallyWaymo has raised $16 billion in a funding round led by Dragoneer Investment Group, DST Global, and Sequoia Capital, valuing the autonomous vehicle company at $126 billion. The funding will support Waymo's rapid expansion from 400,000 weekly rides across six U.S. cities to over 20 additional cities internationally in 2026, including London and Tokyo.Read more →
Engadget...Moltbook, the AI social network, exposed human credentials due to vibe-coded security flawMoltbook, a social network for AI agents, exposed credentials for thousands of users due to security vulnerabilities in its AI-generated codebase. The platform's founder had an AI assistant build the entire site without human oversight, resulting in exposed API tokens, email addresses, and a flaw allowing unauthenticated users to edit posts, ultimately undermining the platform's credibility as an AI-driven network.Read more →
The Verge...Adobe Animate is shutting down next monthAdobe is discontinuing Adobe Animate on March 1st, 2027 (2029 for enterprise customers), citing the emergence of new platforms that better serve user needs. The decision has sparked significant backlash from animation studios, independent creators, and entertainment professionals who rely on the software for television production, film, and game development.Read more →
Gizmodo...Amazon’s Ring Wants to Wash Away Your Surveillance Concerns With Lost PuppiesRing has expanded its Search Party for Dogs feature to help reunite lost pets with owners across the U.S., but the expansion comes amid growing concerns about surveillance access by law enforcement and immigration authorities. While Ring maintains it does not provide ICE with direct access and requires judicial warrants for data sharing, critics question whether these safeguards will hold in a political environment where enforcement agencies increasingly operate outside legal constraints.Read more →
CNET...Best Streaming Services of 2026A comprehensive guide comparing major streaming services including Netflix, Disney Plus, HBO Max, Hulu, Prime Video, Peacock, Paramount Plus, and Apple TV, evaluating their content libraries, pricing, features, and value propositions to help consumers choose the right platforms based on their viewing preferences and budget.Read more →
Gizmodo...‘Pretty Please, I Don’t Want to Be a Magical Girl’ Has the JuicePretty Please, I Don't Want to Be a Magical Girl is an indie animated series created by Kiana Khansmith that subverts magical girl tropes by following a protagonist who abandons superhero life to live as a regular teenager, only to be drawn back in by her friends and old nemesis. The show uses storyboard animation rather than full animation, maintaining strong character performances and humor while building significant online engagement that led to Mercury Filmworks commissioning a fully animated pilot.Read more →
The Verge...Waymo raises $16 billion to take its robotaxi business ‘global’Waymo announced a $16 billion investment round aimed at bringing its robotaxi business to more US cities, as well as some overseas markets. The funding round was led by Dragoneer Investment Group, a "crossover" firm known for investing in late-stage tech companies before they go public. Waymo's co-CEOs said in a blog post they would […]Read more →
TechCrunch...Elon Musk’s SpaceX officially acquires Elon Musk’s xAI, with plan to build data centers in spaceSpaceX has acquired Elon Musk's AI startup xAI in a merger that values the combined company at $1.25 trillion, primarily to develop space-based data centers that would address AI's massive power and cooling demands. The deal brings together two of Musk's companies with significant financial pressures: xAI burns approximately $1 billion monthly while SpaceX relies heavily on Starlink revenue, and the merger is expected to create a sustained satellite deployment loop that benefits SpaceX's core business.Read more →
Engadget...Elon Musk's SpaceX has acquired his AI company, xAISpaceX has acquired Elon Musk's xAI to create a vertically-integrated company combining AI, rockets, and space-based internet infrastructure. Musk plans to build orbital data centers in space to meet growing AI computational demands, claiming terrestrial solutions cannot meet global electricity needs.Read more →
CNET...NotebookLM Review: Bring Your Own Sources to This Ultrapractical Google AI ToolNotebookLM is Google's AI research assistant that helps users learn from and create outputs based on their own source material, distinguishing itself by relying exclusively on user-provided sources rather than internet data. The tool offers multiple features including document analysis, audio overviews, slide decks, and study guides, making it valuable for students, professionals, and creative projects, with a free tier supporting up to 50 sources and a paid tier offering higher limits.Read more →
CNET...iPhone Fold Could Redefine Battery Life and Shake Up Button DesignApple is reportedly developing an iPhone Fold with a 5,500-mAh battery, the largest ever used in an iPhone, along with design refinements including repositioned volume buttons, updated cameras, and improved hinge mechanics. These enhancements suggest Apple is prioritizing battery life and ergonomics to address common weaknesses in early foldable devices from competitors.Read more →
Engadget...Ubisoft fires employee who publicly criticized its RTO planUbisoft fired David Michaud-Cromp, a level design team lead at Ubisoft Montreal, days after he was suspended for opposing the company's return-to-office mandate. The dismissal is part of a pattern of workforce tensions at Ubisoft, including recent studio closures, mass layoffs, and union strike calls over working conditions and cost-cutting measures.Read more →
The Verge...Here are the best Apple Watch deals available right nowApple's latest smartwatch lineup includes the Series 11, SE 3, and Ultra 3, with significant price discounts now available across models. The Series 11 offers improved battery life and a more efficient 5G modem, while the SE 3 represents a major upgrade with the S10 chip and always-on display, making it an excellent value option for budget-conscious buyers.Read more →
CNET...The $500 Check That Helped Launch Apple Just Sold for MillionsA historic check signed by Steve Jobs and Steve Wozniak in March 1976 sold for $2.4 million at an auction celebrating Apple's 50th anniversary. The check, payment to circuit board designer Howard Cantin for his work on the Apple-1, represents one of the earliest transactions in Apple's founding and offers insight into the company's pivotal early days.Read more →
TechCrunch...China is leading the fight against hidden car door handlesChina has banned hidden electronic door handles on vehicles, requiring mechanical releases on all doors effective January 1, 2027. The regulation responds to fatal incidents where occupants became trapped due to electronic lock failures, affecting Tesla and other electric vehicle manufacturers operating in the country.Read more →
Gizmodo...Major California Union Calls for Waymo to Be Kicked Off the StreetsA Waymo robotaxi struck a child in Santa Monica during school drop-off hours, prompting California's Teamsters union to call for the company's statewide shutdown and sparking a National Highway Traffic Safety Administration investigation. The incident has intensified scrutiny of autonomous vehicles' safety protocols in school zones, particularly following separate investigations into Waymo vehicles ignoring school bus stop signs.Read more →
The Verge...Elon Musk merges SpaceX with xAI (and X)SpaceX has acquired xAI to create an integrated company combining artificial intelligence, rocket technology, and space-based infrastructure for scaling AI operations beyond Earth's power limitations. The company plans to develop space-based AI data centers powered by solar energy to address the growing electricity demands of AI systems that cannot be sustainably met by terrestrial infrastructure.Read more →
The Verge...Will Elon Musk’s emails with Jeffrey Epstein derail his very important year?Released Department of Justice documents reveal Elon Musk had more extensive contact with Jeffrey Epstein than previously acknowledged, including emails where Musk asked about parties on Epstein's island, contradicting his past denials of the relationship. While Musk faces potential image damage with investors ahead of SpaceX's planned IPO and company mergers, his history of weathering controversies suggests investors may view this as routine risk associated with his leadership.Read more →
Gizmodo...NASA Picked the Stupidest Possible Week to Go Back to the MoonArtemis 2 could launch as early as this coming weekend. If it does, the 10-day mission will have to compete with the Olympics and Super Bowl for media attention.Read more →
Gizmodo...Gore Verbinski on the Difficulties of Making His Weird, Epic New Sci-Fi MovieDirector Gore Verbinski discusses his upcoming sci-fi film Good Luck, Have Fun, Don't Die, a time-travel thriller about a man from the future recruiting strangers at a Los Angeles Norm's restaurant to prevent a killer AI apocalypse. The film, which blends The Terminator with Groundhog Day, had to be shot in South Africa due to budget constraints after major studios rejected the unconventional script, and Verbinski reflects on how rapidly evolving AI technology required continuous script updates during production.Read more →
Gizmodo...Mozilla Adding ‘Off’ Switch to AI in FirefoxMozilla is introducing a toggle in Firefox 148 to allow users to disable all AI features at once, including translations, tab grouping recommendations, and in-browser chatbots from providers like Claude and ChatGPT. The move addresses user concerns about Mozilla's shift toward AI integration following its new CEO's announcement of plans to evolve Firefox into an AI-focused browser.Read more →
Gizmodo...NASA Let AI Drive a Rover on Mars—and It Somehow SurvivedNASA's Perseverance rover completed two autonomous driving missions on Mars using route plans generated by Anthropic's Claude AI model. The demonstration shows AI can effectively streamline rover navigation by analyzing terrain data similar to how human engineers create waypoints, potentially cutting route-planning time in half and enabling longer autonomous journeys across Mars.Read more →
CNET...Apple Is Working on a Clamshell Version of Its First Foldable iPhone, Report SaysApple is reportedly developing its first foldable iPhone expected to launch in late 2026, with a larger book-style design and a smaller clamshell flip model in development for potential future release. The clamshell variant would offer a more compact, square-shaped design compared to competitors like Samsung and Motorola, with the company betting that successful initial foldable sales will drive demand for multiple form factors.Read more →
TechCrunch...Adobe Animate is shutting down as company focuses on AIAdobe is discontinuing its 2D animation software Adobe Animate on March 1, 2026, as the company shifts its focus toward AI-integrated products. The decision has sparked significant backlash from existing customers who express concern about the lack of suitable alternatives, with Adobe unable to recommend a complete replacement for Animate's functionality.Read more →
Gizmodo...Is ‘Can It Do Raytracing’ the New ‘Can It Run DOOM’?A demoscene developer successfully implemented real-time raytracing on the Sega Saturn, a 1994 console without dedicated raytracing hardware, using advanced techniques like binary space partitioning. This achievement represents a remarkable feat of optimization, demonstrating how creative developers can extract far more performance from legacy hardware than was previously thought possible.Read more →
CNET...Best Live TV Streaming Services of 2026This article compares leading live TV streaming services as cable alternatives, analyzing offerings like YouTube TV, Hulu Plus Live TV, Sling TV, and DirecTV across pricing, channels, and features. It provides guidance for cord-cutters to choose the best service based on channel availability, DVR capabilities, simultaneous streams, and budget, while noting that prices have increased significantly and channel lineups continue to shift.Read more →
Engadget...France might seek restrictions on VPN use in campaign to keep minors off social mediaFrance is advancing legislation to ban social media for minors under 15, with government officials considering additional restrictions on VPNs to prevent circumvention. The proposal has passed the National Assembly and will proceed to the Senate, though critics warn the measures could represent authoritarian overreach.Read more →
The Verge...Notepad++ updates got hijacked for months and could have spied for ChinaNotepad++ servers were compromised for six months, allowing attackers to distribute malicious updates to targeted users, likely affecting organizations with East Asian interests. The attack involved sophisticated redirection of specific users to malicious executables that could enable remote keyboard access. The vulnerability has been patched in version 8.8.9, and users are advised to update directly from the official website.Read more →
Gizmodo...Future iPhone Might Straight-Up Copy Samsung’s Z FlipApple is reportedly developing a clamshell-style foldable iPhone to complement its upcoming book-style foldable launching in September. The flip-style design could address consumer demand for compact phones with large screens, though success will depend on Apple's ability to improve upon existing Samsung models through thinner design, no visible crease, and competitive pricing.Read more →
Gizmodo...Nearly Half of Americans Have Hypertension—and Most Aren’t Doing Anything about ItA study of nationally representative U.S. data reveals that nearly 80% of Americans with hypertension have uncontrolled blood pressure, with a majority not taking pressure-lowering medications. The research indicates that greater adoption of antihypertensive drugs combined with lifestyle modifications could significantly improve cardiovascular health outcomes, as many patients are within 10 points of recommended goals and lack awareness or access to treatment.Read more →
TechCrunch...Two Stanford students launch $2M startup accelerator for students nationwideStanford students Roman Scott and Itbaan Nafi have launched Breakthrough Ventures, a $2 million accelerator program designed specifically for college students and recent graduates to fund early-stage startups across AI, health, consumer, and deep tech sectors. The program offers grants up to $100,000, compute credits, mentorship, and follow-on investment opportunities, aiming to incubate at least 100 companies over three years by addressing the historical funding and network gaps facing student entrepreneurs.Read more →
Engadget...Firefox will soon offer a way to block all of its generative AI featuresMozilla is rolling out Firefox 148 with new AI controls in browser settings, allowing users to disable generative AI features like chatbots, automated translations, alt text generation, tab grouping suggestions, and webpage previews. The update includes a comprehensive toggle to block all current and future AI enhancements, addressing user concerns about feature bloat and resource consumption.Read more →
Gizmodo...Disney Expects Fewer International Theme Park Visitors Because, You KnowDisney reported declining international theme park attendance due to concerns about U.S. immigration enforcement policies under President Trump's administration. International tourism to the U.S. dropped 6% in 2025 while global tourism increased 7%, prompting Disney to shift promotional focus toward domestic visitors, though per-visitor spending has increased and parks remain highly profitable.Read more →
Gizmodo...It Turns Out ‘Social Media for AI Agents’ Is a Security NightmareMoltbook, a Reddit-style platform for AI agents to interact, has exposed critical security vulnerabilities including unencrypted API keys accessible in a public database, potentially allowing attackers to impersonate agents and execute prompt injection attacks. The platform's poor security practices, combined with unverified accounts and the ability for humans to masquerade as bots, raise serious concerns about authenticity and have drawn criticism of prominent AI figures for promoting the platform without understanding its technical limitations.Read more →
The Verge...Ikea’s next cheap Bluetooth speaker is a playful purple mouseIkea is expanding its Grejsimojs product line with a new wireless speaker specifically designed with child safety in mind. The speaker addition represents the furniture giant's growing focus on creating kid-friendly consumer electronics.Read more →
CNET...I Found Amazon's Latest Echo Show 11 at a New Lowest Price Ever, but It Won't LastThe Amazon Echo Show 11 is currently available at a record-low price of $180, down from $220, marking the lowest price ever recorded for this device. The smart display features a bright, crisp screen ideal for kitchen counters and supports Alexa voice control for managing smart home devices, streaming content, and more.Read more →
The Verge...Firefox is adding a switch to turn AI features offMozilla is introducing an AI control option in Firefox on February 24th that allows users to disable or enable individual AI features including chatbots, translations, and tab suggestions. This move responds to user concerns about AI integration in browsers and gives Firefox users granular control over AI functionality, reinforcing Mozilla's commitment to user choice and privacy.Read more →
Gizmodo...Ira Parker on That Big ‘A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms’ RevealIn A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms, the character Egg is revealed to be Aegon Targaryen, a prince hiding his identity to escape his family's cruelty and pursue adventure with the hedge knight Dunk. Showrunner Ira Parker explains that Egg's decision stemmed from childish disappointment at missing the Ashford Meadow tournament, using Dunk's lack of connections as the perfect cover to avoid detection.Read more →
The Verge...Crunchyroll is raising prices againCrunchyroll is raising its prices in the US and "select international markets," including the first price hike to its lowest-priced tier since 2019. Here are the price changes, according to Crunchyroll: Fan Tier will increase from $7.99/month to $9.99/month. Mega Fan Tier will increase from $11.99/month to $13.99/month. Ultimate Fan Tier will increase from $15.99/month […]Read more →
Engadget...Sony’s flagship WF-1000XM6 earbuds have been leaked on a retail siteSony's WF-1000XM6 flagship earbuds have leaked online with photos and specs showing IPX4 water resistance, ANC/transparency modes, and a new pill-shaped design with larger eartips. The larger eartips may indicate improved bass response, addressing a common limitation in earbud audio performance.Read more →
Gizmodo...HyperX Cloud Alpha 2 Review: An Enormous Battery Life Wasted on a Stationary HeadsetThe HyperX Cloud Alpha 2 is a comfortable wireless gaming headset priced at $280 that boasts impressive 250-hour battery life, but its audio quality falls short of competitors at similar price points like the Sony Inzone H9 II and SteelSeries Arctis Nova Elite. While it excels in comfort, mic quality with noise reduction, and cross-platform compatibility, the sound profile options are limited and the exceptionally long battery life is impractical for a primarily stationary home gaming device.Read more →
The Verge...Amazon’s desk-friendly Echo Show 8 is down to its lowest price everAmazon's fourth-generation Echo Show 8 is on sale for $149.99 as part of the Super Bowl sale, featuring an upgraded 8.7-inch display, improved camera, and enhanced smart home controls via Zigbee, Matter, and Thread protocols. The device now supports Alexa Plus for context-aware tasks like automated reminders, though the service requires a $19.99 monthly subscription for non-Prime members.Read more →
TechCrunch...What Snowflake’s deal with OpenAI tells us about the enterprise AI raceSnowflake has signed a $200 million multi-year deal with OpenAI to integrate OpenAI's models across its platform for enterprise customers, joining similar partnerships with Anthropic and other AI providers. This reflects a broader trend where enterprises are deliberately partnering with multiple AI companies to give customers choice and access to models with different strengths, rather than relying on a single provider.Read more →
Engadget...Samsung Galaxy A17 5G review: A respectable and affordable Android optionThe Samsung Galaxy A17 is a capable $200 budget smartphone that balances cost savings with solid features including a bright 6.7-inch OLED display, expandable microSD card storage, and decent cameras. While it struggles with performance due to an older processor and low-light photography, it offers good value with six years of software updates, making it competitive in the budget segment.Read more →
CNET...Move Over, Puppy Bowl: Ring's Dog-Rescuing Super Bowl Ad Brings Tears and TechRing has expanded its Search Party feature, which uses AI to identify lost pets in video footage, to all users nationwide without requiring a Ring camera. The feature has already helped find over one lost dog per day since launch and Ring is investing $1 million to provide cameras to animal shelters to enhance detection capabilities.Read more →
The Verge...Raspberry Pi is raising prices again as memory shortages continueRaspberry Pi announced a second price increase within two months due to component costs doubling, affecting Raspberry Pi 4 and 5 models with 2GB or more memory, with increases ranging from $10 to $60 depending on RAM configuration. The company attributes the pricing pressures to memory chip shortages and expects 2026 to remain challenging, but anticipates eventual price normalization once supply stabilizes.Read more →
