The Verge...How the new iPhone 17E stacks up against Apple’s pricier phonesApple announced the iPhone 17E, a budget-friendly iPhone priced at $599 featuring MagSafe, the A19 chip, and a 48-megapixel camera with 2x telephoto capability. While it includes Apple Intelligence support and improved specs over previous budget models, it compromises on display technology with a 60Hz OLED screen, lacks an always-on display and Dynamic Island, and offers slower charging speeds than higher-tier models.Read more →
Gizmodo...RFK Jr. Tells Joe Rogan He’s About to Unleash 14 Banned PeptidesRFK Jr. announced plans to reverse FDA restrictions on peptides, allowing compounding pharmacies to legally produce approximately 14 previously banned compounds. The decision aims to provide legal market access to these treatments while reducing reliance on unregulated black market sources. However, the peptides remain largely untested for safety and effectiveness.Read more →
The Verge...Apple might use Google servers to store data for its upgraded AI SiriApple is reportedly asking Google to set up servers for a new Gemini-powered version of Siri that maintains Apple's privacy standards. This suggests Apple's partnership with Google extends beyond AI models to potentially include cloud infrastructure to help catch up in the competitive AI race. The move highlights Apple's historically conservative infrastructure spending compared to rivals and signals weak adoption of its existing AI features.Read more →
The Verge...Mastodon now has a button for sharing content from other websitesMastodon has released a universal 'Share to Mastodon' button that simplifies content sharing across its decentralized network. The open-source widget addresses technical challenges inherent to Mastodon's distributed architecture by seamlessly routing shares to the correct server while maintaining user privacy. Website owners can now easily integrate the feature to facilitate content distribution to Mastodon users.Read more →
Gizmodo...OpenAI Leadership Defends Deal With Pentagon as Employees Wait in LimboThe Pentagon terminated its agreement with Anthropic after the company refused to remove safety guardrails on AI use for surveillance and autonomous weapons, subsequently signing a contract with OpenAI instead. This decision generated substantial public and internal employee backlash, with critics questioning whether OpenAI's stated safeguards would effectively prevent potential misuse. The incident underscores ongoing tensions between government national security interests and ethical constraints on military AI deployment.Read more →
Gizmodo...‘World of Warcraft’ Just Upgraded Its Best City for the First Time in 20 Years, and Now It’s PerfectWorld of Warcraft's Midnight expansion completely revamps the Blood Elf zone of Quel'Thalas, untouched since 2006, tripling the size of Silvermoon City and modernizing its graphics while preserving player memories of the classic zone. The redesigned region now features hundreds of NPCs, lush environments, and narrative depth reflecting the healing of the Blood Elf civilization over two decades. This represents the most extensive zone revamp since Cataclysm and sets a new standard for how World of Warcraft modernizes legacy content.Read more →
Gizmodo...In a Hotter, Wetter South, Mold Is Emerging as a Public Health CrisisClimate change and extreme weather are creating ideal conditions for household mold growth in the Southeast, with Hurricane Helene exposing widespread infestations that pose serious health risks to vulnerable populations. Federal and state regulations lag far behind the growing problem, leaving many renters without adequate protections or affordable remediation options. Duke University scientists are conducting a comprehensive study of post-flood mold species and their health impacts to close critical knowledge gaps.Read more →
CNET...Study Finds Phishing Scams Are on the Rise, Accelerated by AIPhishing and spoofing scams surged 85% with average losses doubling to $2,060, driven by generative AI tools enabling deepfakes, voice cloning, and personalized messaging. Americans lost over $12 billion to consumer fraud in 2024, a 25% increase, with online scams now comprising 48% of complaints. Younger adults, particularly millennials, are increasingly targeted despite digital literacy assumptions, with fraud complaints from ages 26-35 rising 68% year-over-year.Read more →
Gizmodo...Microsoft Bans Term ‘Microslop’ From Official Discord ServerMicrosoft banned the term 'Microslop' from its Copilot Discord server, attributing it to spam control, though the pejorative reflects widespread user frustration with the company's aggressive AI integration across its products. The failed ban sparked community backlash and prompted Microsoft to acknowledge user discontent, reportedly leading to plans to scale back forced AI initiatives like Copilot and the Recall feature.Read more →
CNET...This Modular Phone Transforms Into a Fully-Fledged CameraTecno unveiled a modular phone concept at MWC 2026 featuring a slim core device with connectors that accept snap-on modules, including a professional-grade zoom camera with dedicated image sensor and physical controls. The system allows users to attach various accessories like battery packs, microphones, speakers, and lenses depending on their immediate needs, transforming the phone on-demand similar to mirrorless camera systems. This approach challenges traditional phone design by enabling hardware customization without adding bulk to the base device.Read more →
Engadget...Starlink's next-gen satellite network could provide 150 Mbps speeds by end of next yearStarlink is launching its second-generation V2 satellite constellation, which will deliver speeds up to 150 Mbps comparable to 5G terrestrial networks. The new satellites will provide 100 times greater data density than current models, enabling faster streaming, more reliable voice calls, and significantly improved coverage to polar regions.Read more →
CNET...I Danced With Honor's Robot Phone and It Complimented My 'Shiny' HairHonor unveiled the Robot Phone with an AI-powered robotic camera arm that marks a significant shift from software-based AI to physical hardware innovation in smartphones. The device features a 200-megapixel sensor, gimbal stabilization with AI object tracking, and AI Spinshot technology for cinematic transitions, targeting content creators as a DJI Osmo Pocket alternative. Using advanced micro-motor technology and silicon-carbon batteries, Honor engineered the system to overcome space constraints without sacrificing performance.Read more →
Gizmodo...Ease Your ‘A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms’ Withdrawals With This Adorable Blooper ReelHBO is releasing A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms: The Complete First Season on physical media (Blu-ray, DVD, and UHD) on June 16 with bonus features including a newly released blooper reel and behind-the-scenes content. The physical release arrives as the show's second season is currently in production. The release provides fans with a permanent copy of the show amid concerns about content removal from streaming platforms.Read more →
CNET...I Saw Xiaomi's Wild Hypercar Up Close and It's Pure Video Game BlissXiaomi showcased the Vision GT electric hypercar concept at MWC 2026, a real-world prototype of a vehicle originally designed for the Gran Turismo PlayStation 5 racing game. The hypercar features advanced aerodynamic engineering with carbon-fiber components, innovative wheel design with stationary hubs to reduce drag, and an all-LED interior. While officially a concept vehicle, Xiaomi indicated it may explore producing limited editions in the future, blurring the boundary between virtual gaming assets and physical automotive products.Read more →
CNET...Astro Bot's Latest PS5 Adventure Is Almost 50% Off at Walmart Right NowAstro Bot, a PS5-exclusive adventure game, is currently available for $33, representing a $27 discount from its regular $60 price point. The game features advanced technical specifications including Tempest 3D Audio support and 60 frames per second performance, delivering a high-quality experience with minimal lag. Rated E for everyone ages 10 and up, the game offers family-friendly gameplay that provides substantial value across multiple players.Read more →
The Verge...You could be an influencer without even realizing itInstagram and TikTok are automatically adding product recommendation links to user posts and videos without creator consent, directing followers to lookalike items and undermining influencer earnings and control. The platforms monetize user-generated content through these shopping features while creators lose trust with their audiences and face disrupted commission streams. This represents a broader shift toward converting social media feeds into shopping platforms, blurring the line between content and advertising.Read more →
TechCrunch...Users are ditching ChatGPT for Claude. Here’s how to make the switchUsers are rapidly switching from ChatGPT to Claude following Anthropic's refusal to allow the Department of Defense to use its AI for mass surveillance or autonomous weapons. In contrast, OpenAI agreed to a Pentagon partnership, sparking privacy and ethics concerns. Claude has surged to the top of Apple's app store with record signups and a 60% increase in free users since January.Read more →
CNET...Extinction Watch: Sub-$500 Computers in Danger, According to ReportRising memory and storage costs are expected to increase PC prices by 17 percent by 2028, with Gartner predicting that entry-level PCs under $500 will disappear from the market. These cost pressures will also delay the adoption of AI-capable PCs, which are expected to reach only 50 percent of the market share by 2028. Consumers are likely to hold onto devices longer due to affordability concerns, while smartphone prices are projected to rise approximately 13 percent over the same period.Read more →
Engadget...X adds ‘Paid Partnership’ labels so users can more easily identify adsX is rolling out a built-in "Paid Partnership" label that creators can apply to sponsored posts, replacing the need for hashtag workarounds. This feature helps creators comply with FTC regulations requiring clear disclosure of sponsored content, addressing a requirement that has existed since 2017. The label can be applied retroactively and includes a disclosure toggle placed directly below post content.Read more →
TechCrunch...Paramount+ and HBO Max to merge into one streaming service after WBD deal closesParamount Skydance has completed its $110 billion acquisition of Warner Bros. Discovery and announced plans to merge Paramount+ and HBO Max into a unified streaming platform with over 200 million projected subscribers. The combined service will house major franchises including Harry Potter, Game of Thrones, and Star Trek, with a commitment to 30 theatrical releases annually. The merger faces regulatory scrutiny from the Department of Justice regarding media concentration and competition concerns.Read more →
Engadget...iPad Air M4 vs. iPad Air M3: The few new things in Apple's midrange tabletApple upgraded the iPad Air to the M4 chip with increased RAM from 8GB to 12GB, delivering up to 30 percent better performance while maintaining the same starting price of $599 for the 11-inch model. The upgrade benefits creatives and professionals, particularly those using demanding applications like video editing and Apple Intelligence features. However, the design, display, cameras, and battery life remain unchanged from the previous M3 generation.Read more →
Engadget...The Analogue Pocket will be back in stock this week, but there's a tariff-related price increaseThe Analogue Pocket retro handheld console, which plays original Game Boy and Game Boy Advance cartridges, will return to stock this week with preorders opening March 4. The device's price is increasing from $220 to $240 due to Trump administration tariffs on Chinese-manufactured electronics.Read more →
CNET...Bytedance's Upcoming Project Swan VR Headset Wants to Be the Computer Meta's Isn't YetByteDance announced the Pico Project Swan VR headset at Mobile World Congress, featuring a high-resolution micro OLED display and custom dual-chip processors claimed to be twice as powerful as Qualcomm's Snapdragon XR2 Gen 2. The announcement signals ByteDance's continued investment in premium mixed-reality hardware at a time when Meta is reportedly scaling back VR development. Project Swan positions ByteDance as a significant competitor in the increasingly crowded XR market alongside Apple, Samsung, and Valve.Read more →
Gizmodo...Apple Declares It’s Keeping Prices the Same Despite the RAM ApocalypseApple maintains pricing for its new iPhone 17e and iPad Air M4 despite rising memory and storage costs industry-wide, with the iPhone 17e offering upgraded storage and features at the same $600 starting price. While competitors like Samsung raise prices and Google stagnates hardware improvements, Apple's strategy appears designed to maintain market competitiveness amid significant component cost inflation.Read more →
Gizmodo...‘Scream 7’ Broke Franchise Box Office Records Despite Franchise-Worst ReviewsScream 7 achieved a $97 million global opening weekend, shattering franchise records despite receiving the worst critical reviews in the series' history. The film's success demonstrates that established franchises retain strong fan loyalty independent of critical reception, with opening weekends typically driven by dedicated fans before word-of-mouth influences longer-term performance.Read more →
The Verge...Donut Lab’s solid-state battery can handle the (extreme) heat, test saysA Finnish startup has developed a battery with exceptional thermal performance that not only withstands extreme heat conditions but actually increases in capacity under such stress, a significant advancement that defies typical battery degradation patterns. This breakthrough could have major implications for energy storage reliability in high-temperature environments and demanding applications.Read more →
CNET...Best Laptops of 2026: Top Picks Tested by CNETThis laptop buying guide helps consumers navigate the market by covering essential factors including budget, operating system, display quality, and hardware specifications. Since modern laptop components are rarely upgradeable, the guide emphasizes investing in adequate specs upfront, recommending a $700-$1,000 range for everyday laptops and $1,000+ for gaming or creative work.Read more →
The Verge...Supreme Court won’t hear AI-generated art copyright caseThe country's highest judicial court has declined to reconsider a lower court ruling that determined AI-generated art cannot be copyrighted. This decision reinforces that artificial intelligence-created content falls outside traditional copyright protections. The ruling has significant implications for AI developers, creators using these tools, and the intellectual property landscape.Read more →
CNET...Paramount Plus and HBO Max Will Merge Into One Streaming ServiceParamount Skydance is acquiring Warner Bros. Discovery for $110 billion and merging Paramount Plus and HBO Max into a single streaming service with over 200 million subscribers. The consolidated platform aims to strengthen Paramount's competitive position against leading streaming services through combined content and unified technology infrastructure.Read more →
CNET...Bluey Arrives at Disneyland This Month. Here's What Else Is Coming to Disney Parks in 2026 and BeyondDisney is executing major theme park expansions across Disneyland, Disney World, and Disney Cruise Line through 2028, adding new themed lands featuring Bluey, Avatar, villains, and Pixar characters alongside dozens of new attractions. The company is offering discounted tickets and new Magic Key options while launching four new cruise ships, demonstrating continued investment in physical entertainment experiences tied to its Disney Plus streaming content.Read more →
Gizmodo...Scientists Finally Found Something Tardigrades Can’t SurviveResearchers tested tardigrades in simulated Martian soil to assess planetary protection and contamination risks. While tardigrades initially struggled in untreated regolith, a simple water rinse significantly improved their survival, indicating the Martian soil contains harmful substances that can be removed. These findings provide insights into how microorganisms and contaminants might behave on Mars, with implications for future planetary protection protocols.Read more →
Gizmodo...Anthropic Improves Feature to Switch From Competitors as Users Call for ChatGPT BoycottAnthropic launched an updated tool enabling users to import preferences from competing AI chatbots, as Claude surpassed OpenAI's ChatGPT to become the top free app on Apple's App Store. The surge followed Anthropic's refusal to agree to U.S. Department of Defense terms that would have permitted military use without restrictions on autonomous weapons and mass surveillance. The company's ethical stance has generated significant public support, though the Defense Secretary designated Anthropic a supply-chain risk while OpenAI and xAI secured separate agreements with the department.Read more →
Engadget...The Supreme Court doesn't care if you want to copyright your AI-generated artThe US Supreme Court declined to hear a case regarding copyright protection for AI-generated artwork, upholding a lower court's decision that such works cannot be copyrighted due to lack of human authorship. Stephen Thaler's copyright application for an AI-generated artwork called 'A Recent Entrance to Paradise' was rejected, establishing that AI-generated content cannot receive copyright protection under current US law.Read more →
TechCrunch...Tech workers urge DOD, Congress to withdraw Anthropic label as a supply chain riskHundreds of technology industry leaders signed an open letter protesting the Department of Defense's designation of Anthropic as a 'supply chain risk,' following the AI company's refusal to provide unrestricted military access to its systems. Anthropic maintained red lines against allowing its technology for mass surveillance or autonomous weapons without human control, prompting the Trump administration to direct federal agencies to cease using the company's products and threaten to blacklist it from military partnerships. Industry leaders view this action as retaliatory and warn it sets a dangerous precedent pressuring American technology companies to accept government demands or face retaliation.Read more →
Gizmodo...‘Hoppers’ Is Easily One of Pixar’s Funniest, Darkest, and Best Movies In YearsHoppers is a new Pixar animated film that has been praised as nearly perfect, balancing humor, emotional depth, and strong social messages through a story about environmental protection and consciousness-transfer technology. The film stands out for its willingness to take creative risks, stunning animation quality, and unpredictable narrative structure that appeals to both children and adults, opening March 6.Read more →
The Verge...Nvidia's spending $4 billion on photonics to stay ahead of the curve in AINvidia announced on Monday that it's investing $2 billion each into Lumentum and Coherent, which are both developing photonics technology for data centers, like optical transceivers, circuit switches, and lasers, which are used to move data at high speeds over long distances. Their tech could improve energy efficiency, data transfer speeds, and bandwidth in future […]Read more →
Engadget...Nintendo just announced an Indie World Showcase for tomorrow at 9AM ETNintendo is hosting an Indie World Showcase on March 3 featuring announcements for upcoming indie games on Switch 2 and Switch. The 15-minute event will likely include trailers for new and anticipated titles, with highlights potentially including Silksong DLC, Mina the Hollower updates, and Scott Pilgrim EX's launch trailer.Read more →
The Verge...The Analogue Pocket will be back in stock and slightly more expensiveAnalogue is opening preorders for its Pocket handheld console on March 4th with a new price of $239.99, marking another price increase attributed to tariff announcements and component supply issues. The company also introduced Analogue Cartridge Cleaners, a 12-pack accessory for $14.99 designed to clean vintage game cartridges without chemicals. Shipments for new Pocket orders are expected to begin in June 2026.Read more →
Engadget...Paramount+ and HBO Max could be merging into a single streaming serviceParamount Skydance plans to consolidate Paramount+ and HBO Max into a unified streaming service following its merger with Warner Bros. Discovery, combining over 200 million subscribers to compete more effectively with major DTC players. The merged platform will maintain HBO's brand independence while leveraging combined content and technology, though specific details regarding full integration and pricing structure remain undetermined.Read more →
The Verge...Magic Keyboard cases for the latest iPad Pro are up to $85 offApple's Magic Keyboard cases are available at significant discounts on Woot, featuring upgraded features like larger trackpads, aluminum palm rests, and function rows that enhance iPad productivity. The article also highlights deals on other consumer electronics including the DJI Osmo Pocket 3 camera, Ultimate Ears Everboom Bluetooth speaker, and Resident Evil Requiem game.Read more →
TechCrunch...X ads ‘Paid Partnership’ labels for creators so they can ditch the hashtagsX introduced a new 'Paid Partnership' label that creators can apply to sponsored posts to ensure FTC compliance and improve content authenticity. The feature allows transparent disclosure of paid promotions directly on posts, addressing concerns about undisclosed sponsorships that harm platform integrity. This addition is part of X's ongoing strategy to attract creators by providing business tools comparable to competing platforms like Instagram.Read more →
The Verge...HBO Max and Paramount Plus could become one streamerNow that Paramount Skydance has become the frontrunner to buy Warner Bros. Discovery, CEO David Ellison wants the two studios' streaming services to become one. During a call with investors on Monday, Paramount Skydance head David Ellison insisted that, if his deal to acquire the entirety of Warner Bros. Discovery for about $110 billion receives […]Read more →
Engadget...iPhone 17e vs. iPhone 16e: What's new on Apple's latest $599 handsetApple's new iPhone 17e maintains its $599 price point while delivering meaningful upgrades including the faster A19 chip, double storage, and improved camera software with pet recognition. Key improvements include enhanced wireless charging (15W) and Ceramic Shield 2 durability, positioning it as a solid incremental update to Apple's affordable line.Read more →
TechCrunch...Hacktivists claim to have hacked Homeland Security to release ICE contract dataA hacktivist group claiming to be 'Department of Peace' breached the Department of Homeland Security, leaking contracts between DHS, ICE, and over 6,000 companies including defense contractors and tech giants. The publicly searchable leaked data reveals contractor identities, contract amounts, and contact information, with the hackers citing concerns about DHS immigration enforcement policies. The breach exposes private sector involvement in federal deportation campaigns and critical infrastructure security operations.Read more →
Gizmodo...Long Covid Is Down, but Not Out, Study FindsYale University researchers found that approximately 8.3% of U.S. adults reported ever having long COVID by 2024, with around 8 million Americans still experiencing the condition despite increasing recovery rates. While long COVID prevalence has declined from pandemic onset, researchers emphasize the urgent need for greater investment in understanding biological mechanisms, as no treatments have demonstrated clear efficacy to date.Read more →
Gizmodo...Taser Chess: No, Masochism Is Not a Shortcut to Chess StardomAn experimental device called Taser Chess delivers electric shocks via a TENS unit when players make poor chess moves, powered by a Raspberry Pi running the Stockfish chess engine. The system penalizes blunders, illegal moves, time violations, and failed puzzles with increasingly severe electrical stimulation as a negative reinforcement training method. Despite this extreme approach, the creator found the device ultimately ineffective against experienced chess players.Read more →
The Verge...Samsung’s Digital Home Key lets you use your phone as your keySamsung is implementing a tap-to-unlock home access feature on Galaxy phones using the Aliro standard, similar to Apple's Home Key. This expansion brings digital door lock capabilities to Samsung's ecosystem, making the technology more widely available across different smartphone platforms.Read more →
Engadget...Everything Apple announced today: iPhone 17e and M4 iPad AirApple announced the iPhone 17e and M4-powered iPad Air ahead of its March 4 event, with significant upgrades at competitive prices. The iPhone 17e doubles base storage to 256GB and adds MagSafe with faster 15W wireless charging and improved Ceramic Shield 2 durability, while the M4 iPad Air receives 12GB RAM and Wi-Fi 7 connectivity, both delivering notable performance improvements.Read more →
CNET...Best MacBooks We’ve Tested (March 2026)CNET reviews Apple's MacBook lineup featuring M4 and M5 processors, recommending the 15-inch M4 MacBook Air as the best overall value for most users due to its balance of performance, display size, and price. The guide compares Air and Pro models across different use cases, with Air models suited for everyday tasks and portability while Pro models target creative professionals. Upcoming M5 refreshes for both Air and Pro lines are expected in the coming days.Read more →
The Verge...The best mobile tech announced at MWC 2026 so farMWC 2026 showcased cutting-edge mobile innovations including robot phones, water-resistant folding smartphones, and modular laptops with swappable ports. These announcements represent significant advances in mobile device durability, form factors, and customization capabilities.Read more →
Engadget...Anthropic's Claude can now absorb your past conversations with other AI chatbotsAnthropic launched a memory import tool that enables Claude users to extract conversation histories and context from competing AI chatbots like ChatGPT, Gemini, and Copilot, streamlining the migration process. The tool automatically transfers imported memories into Claude within 24 hours, with the AI assistant assimilating work-related information while users maintain control over what Claude remembers about them.Read more →
Gizmodo...Paramount Says It Will Merge HBO Max With Paramount Plus If the Warner Bros. Sale Goes ThroughParamount's planned $110 billion acquisition of Warner Bros. will merge Paramount Plus and HBO Max into a unified streaming platform with over 200 million combined subscribers. CEO David Ellison frames this consolidation as business reinvention while maintaining HBO's brand identity, positioning the company to compete with major streaming industry leaders.Read more →
TechCrunch...A married founder duo’s company, 14.ai, is replacing customer support teams at startups14.ai, a Y Combinator-backed startup, has raised $3 million to operate as an AI-native customer service agency combining AI software with human support to replace traditional support teams. The company integrates with existing systems within a day and monitors tickets across multiple channels including email, chat, and social media. This model addresses disruption in the BPO industry while helping startups efficiently manage customer service at scale.Read more →
CNET...Samsung Needs to Learn a Big Lesson From XiaomiXiaomi's Leitzphone, developed with Leica, outperforms Samsung's Galaxy S26 Ultra with genuine camera hardware innovations including LOFIC sensor technology and true optical zoom. Samsung's latest flagship relies primarily on software AI enhancements and incremental improvements, lacking the photography-focused hardware innovation that appeals to content creators. This positions Xiaomi to capture market share among photographers and professionals seeking advanced imaging capabilities.Read more →
TechCrunch...Apple speeds up the iPad Air with an M4 upgrade, starting at $599Apple unveiled a new iPad Air powered by the M4 chip, delivering 30% faster performance than the M3 model with significant improvements to its neural engine for AI workloads. The device features 12GB of unified memory, a 16-core Neural Engine that is 3x faster than the M1, and optimized performance for on-device AI models, while maintaining the same $599 starting price for the 11-inch model. The tablet also includes upgraded connectivity with Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 6, enhanced cameras, and GPU improvements for gaming and content creation.Read more →
The Verge...Investigating the 61-pound machine that eats plastic and spits out bricksClear Drop's Soft Plastic Compactor compresses unrecyclable soft plastics into 3-pound bricks for mail-in recycling, but experts question whether the service meaningfully reduces waste given carbon emissions from cross-country shipping and unclear final recycling processes. The $1,400+ device has technical issues and faces uncertain consumer demand, raising concerns about the company's long-term viability.Read more →
The Verge...Zillow's CEO on growing the company during a housing crisisZillow CEO Jeremy Wacksman discusses the company's evolution from a consumer-facing real estate aggregator to a vertically integrated transaction platform providing software and services for agents, lenders, and buyers. The strategy positions Zillow to withstand potential disaggregation from AI-powered interfaces by focusing on enterprise customers, transaction efficiency, and local expertise rather than consumer-facing interface innovation.Read more →
CNET...Is Claude Down? What to Know About the Anthropic AI OutageAnthropic experienced a service outage affecting Claude.AI, Claude Code, and Opus 4.6 that lasted over two hours Monday morning, though the business-focused Claude API remained operational. The company attributed the disruption to unprecedented demand for Claude and restored full service by around 11 AM Eastern Time.Read more →
TechCrunch...Apple bakes in AI smarts into its new $599 iPhone 17eApple announced the iPhone 17e, a budget-friendly smartphone priced at $599 with the A19 chip, Apple Intelligence support, and 256GB base storage. The device features significant upgrades including MagSafe and Qi2 wireless charging, an enhanced C1X cellular modem that's twice as fast and uses 30% less energy, and an improved Ceramic Shield 2 display. Available starting March 11, the iPhone 17e combines flagship capabilities with an accessible price point.Read more →
Engadget...What to expect at Apple's product launch event on March 4Apple is hosting a product launch event on March 4, 2026, across multiple cities to unveil new hardware including the iPhone 17e, upgraded iPad Air with M4 chip, and new MacBook models featuring budget-friendly A18 and higher-end M5 Pro/Max processors. The announcements reflect Apple's strategy to expand both its budget and premium product segments while advancing chip performance through improved heat dissipation and increased core counts. Key upgrades include MagSafe support on the iPhone 17e and Apple Intelligence integration on new iPad models.Read more →
CNET...Apple Debuts the $599 iPhone 17E With MagSafe – and It Comes in PinkApple launched the iPhone 17E, a budget smartphone priced at $599 with doubled base storage (256GB) and support for MagSafe wireless charging at 15W. The device features the A19 processor, C1X modem for faster connectivity, and Ceramic Shield 2 display with improved scratch resistance. These upgrades deliver improved value compared to the previous generation while maintaining accessibility for budget-conscious consumers.Read more →
Gizmodo...Apple’s iPad Air Gets an M4 Upgrade for the Same Starting PriceApple upgraded the iPad Air with an M4 chip while maintaining the same price as the previous generation—$599 for 11-inch and $799 for 13-inch models. The M4 delivers 30% faster CPU performance, 50% more unified memory at 12GB, and increased memory bandwidth to 120GB/s, enabling faster AI model execution alongside improved Wi-Fi and cellular connectivity.Read more →
Gizmodo...The First Trailer for ‘Scary Movie 6’ Is Here to Eat Horror’s Lunch AgainParamount released the official trailer for Scary Movie 6, reuniting the original cast as the franchise returns to parody modern horror trends and legacy sequels. The film takes aim at recent horror hits including Terrifier, M3GAN, The Substance, and Sinners, launching in theaters June 12.Read more →
Engadget...The Samsung Wallet can now hold your house keysSamsung has launched Digital Home Key, a feature in Samsung Wallet that enables users to unlock compatible smart doors with their phones using the industry-standard Aliro protocol. The feature includes security measures such as biometric or PIN authentication and EAL6+ certification, with support from smart lock brands like Nuki and Schlage. The service is rolling out in select regions this month with plans to expand as more compatible smart lock brands become available.Read more →
Gizmodo...Apple Announces iPhone 17e With the One Feature the iPhone 16e Should Have HadApple unveiled the iPhone 17e, a midrange phone launching March 11 at $599 that addresses prior model criticisms with MagSafe support, doubled 256GB base storage, and the flagship A19 chip. These upgrades at an unchanged price point strengthen the device's value proposition in the competitive midrange segment.Read more →
The Verge...How OpenAI caved to the Pentagon on AI surveillanceOpenAI signed a Pentagon contract while claiming to maintain safeguards against domestic mass surveillance and autonomous weapons, but the agreement permits broad military use through flexible legal language allowing "any lawful use" that relies on existing laws historically stretched to justify surveillance programs. In contrast, Anthropic rejected the same terms and was blacklisted as a supply-chain risk, while OpenAI framed its weaker protections as equivalent safeguards, drawing criticism from industry leaders and legal experts.Read more →
Engadget...Apple updates the iPad Air with an M4 chipApple has unveiled an updated iPad Air with an M4 processor, new N1 and C1X networking chips enabling Wi-Fi 7 support, and 12GB of standard RAM. The remainder of the tablet maintains the same design and display specifications from previous generations. The new iPad Air M4 will be available starting March 11, with pricing beginning at $599 for the 11-inch model.Read more →
Engadget...Apple updates the iPad Air with an M4 chipApple is releasing an updated iPad Air with an M4 chip, WiFi 7 support, and increased base RAM of 12GB, maintaining the same pricing as previous models. The new tablets, available March 11, represent a significant connectivity upgrade while preserving the device's proven design. This update demonstrates Apple's continued commitment to performance improvements across its tablet lineup.Read more →
CNET...Apple's Midrange iPad Gets an M4 Chip Bump, Arriving March 11Apple has released an updated iPad Air with the M4 chip at the same starting price of $599 for the 11-inch model and $799 for the 13-inch model. The upgrade includes improved internals such as the C1X modem and Wi-Fi 7 support, making it a compelling alternative to the more expensive iPad Pro. The M4 processor in the Air potentially diminishes the value proposition of the high-end Pro model.Read more →
TechCrunch...Hackers and internet outages hit Iran amid U.S. air strikesU.S. and Israeli airstrikes killed Iran's supreme leader Ali Hosseini Khamenei in a coordinated military and cyber campaign that included attacks compromising the BadeSaba prayer app and disrupting Iranian infrastructure. The operation triggered widespread internet outages, Amazon data center failures in the UAE from missile strikes, and threatens critical Middle East trade routes, with significant potential for regional escalation.Read more →
Engadget...Apple introduces the $599 iPhone 17e with MagSafe and twice the storageApple unveiled the iPhone 17e at $599, featuring significant upgrades over its predecessor including faster 15W MagSafe charging, a new C1X modem with 2x faster connectivity, and enhanced Ceramic Shield 2 display with improved scratch resistance. The phone supports Apple Intelligence with the A19 chip and launches March 11.Read more →
The Verge...Apple announces the iPhone 17EApple has refreshed its most affordable smartphone, introducing MagSafe compatibility and other feature upgrades while maintaining the $599 starting price. The updates enhance the budget device's appeal by offering improved functionality without raising the entry-level cost.Read more →
CNET...Some of the Best A24 Movies Are Streaming for FreeA24 has established itself as a distinctive production company known for attracting acclaimed filmmakers and producing award-winning films across multiple genres. Many of its acclaimed titles, including Hereditary and Everything Everywhere All at Once, are now available on free streaming services such as Kanopy, Tubi, and Plex, expanding viewer access beyond premium platforms like HBO Max.Read more →
Gizmodo...‘God of War’ Star Responds to First Look BacklashMultiple Hollywood projects advance in development, with Drew Goddard actively writing a fifth Matrix film, Mike Flanagan adapting Stephen King's Carrie for television with modern themes, and actors expressing interest in reprising roles for Black Panther 3 and Dredd 2. These updates span major theatrical productions, IMAX films, and streaming series across major studios including Warner Bros. and Amazon.Read more →
The Verge...Apple launches a new iPad Air with an upgraded M4 processorApple's new iPad Air features an upgraded processor with enhanced performance capabilities alongside improved wireless connectivity through Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 6, and Thread support. These hardware upgrades position the device as a more capable tablet for productivity and creative applications.Read more →
TechCrunch...MyFitnessPal has acquired Cal AI, the viral calorie app built by teensMyFitnessPal has acquired Cal AI, an AI-powered calorie counting startup that achieved 15 million downloads and $30 million in annual revenue in under two years. The acquisition, finalized in December after nearly a year of negotiations, keeps Cal AI as an independent app while integrating it with MyFitnessPal's database of 20 million foods and 68,500 brands. The deal positions the apps for different user segments: Cal AI targets users prioritizing speed and simplicity, while MyFitnessPal serves those seeking detailed nutritional accuracy.Read more →
TechCrunch...Parade’s Cami Tellez announces new creator economy marketing platform, $4M in fundingCami Tellez and Jon Kroopf launched Devotion, an AI-powered influencer marketing platform that automates creator discovery, management, and content workflows for brands. The platform addresses the decline of traditional macro-creator models by enabling brands to work with hundreds of creators at scale, leveraging AI with human oversight. Devotion has achieved seven-figure revenue with over 10 clients and raised $4 million in funding.Read more →
CNET...Best WordPress Hosting for Smooth Website Operation in 2026The article reviews WordPress hosting essentials including storage, bandwidth, security, uptime, and site speed, then evaluates leading providers to help users select appropriate hosting. Key considerations include SSL certification, DDoS protection, automated backups, and 24/7 customer support for optimal site performance.Read more →
TechCrunch...Anthropic’s Claude reports widespread outageAnthropic experienced widespread service disruptions affecting Claude.ai and Claude Code on Monday morning, with thousands of users unable to access the platform due to login/logout path issues. The outage occurred during a surge in user interest following news of the company's Pentagon negotiations, with Claude rising to the top of the App Store charts. Anthropic identified the issue and is implementing a fix, though the Claude API remained operational throughout the disruption.Read more →
Gizmodo...Netflix CEO Ted Sarandos Opens Up on Losing Warner Bros. DealNetflix withdrew from its bid to acquire Warner Bros. after Paramount made increasingly aggressive offers exceeding Netflix's budget constraints. Paramount is now pursuing regulatory approval for the acquisition, while Netflix received a $2.8 billion breakup fee and plans to pivot toward theatrical releases and partnerships rather than further acquisitions.Read more →
The Verge...Pokémon Pokopia is an expansive adventure disguised as a cozy life simPokémon Pokopia is a life simulation game for Nintendo Switch 2 that reimagines the franchise by emphasizing habitat creation and befriending Pokémon rather than catching them, inspired by Animal Crossing and Minecraft. The game prioritizes player freedom and non-linear progression across customizable biomes, offering substantial creative possibilities. Releasing March 5th, Pokopia provides a major new experience while Nintendo delays the next mainline Pokémon game.Read more →
CNET...Pokopia Is the Glorious Return of Animal Crossing in Pokemon FormPokemon Pokopia is a Switch 2 exclusive that blends Animal Crossing-style cozy gameplay with Pokemon mechanics, featuring a Ditto protagonist befriending creatures and building across multiple islands without combat. The game has received strong critical acclaim as a potential system-seller for Nintendo's new hardware, combining accessible world-building inspired by Minecraft with mysterious, relaxing daily activities.Read more →
Engadget...At MWC, Tecno’s super-thin modular concept phone doesn't even have a wired charging portTecno unveiled a modular smartphone concept at MWC 2026 featuring a 4.9mm base device with swappable modules for cameras, batteries, and connectivity functions. The system supports components ranging from a 20x zoom telephoto lens to stacked battery packs exceeding 10,000mAh capacity. While the innovative design shows promise, commercial viability remains uncertain given the market failures of previous modular phones like Google's Project Ara and Motorola's Moto Mods.Read more →
Gizmodo...If Nobody Got ‘Batman v Superman,’ Zack Snyder Still DoesZack Snyder defends Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice's artistic vision as a deconstructed superhero film that faced censorship from the MPAA. The ratings board repeatedly attempted to give it an R rating, eventually revealing they objected to the film's core concept of the two heroes fighting each other.Read more →
Engadget...Sony faces a $2.7 billion antitrust lawsuit in the UKA UK class action antitrust lawsuit has been filed against Sony, alleging the company overcharged 12.2 million PlayStation users for digital games and in-game content through its dominant position in digital distribution. The case claims Sony's near-monopoly on the PlayStation Store enabled unfair pricing and a 30 percent commission, with potential damages of approximately £2 billion and estimated compensation of £162 per affected user. Sony disputes the allegations, arguing that third-party digital stores pose security risks and that digital sales margins offset console sales losses.Read more →
The Verge...Oh great, here comes 6G6G, planned for commercialization by 2030, promises seamless satellite-cellular connectivity, network-embedded AI computing, and integrated sensing capabilities to improve global coverage in remote areas. The technology raises significant privacy concerns with its wireless sensing features and faces similar overhyped expectations that plagued 5G deployment. The industry plans to demonstrate early 6G capabilities at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.Read more →
CNET...Is a Vitamix Worth It? I Asked Several Experts to Weigh InThis article evaluates whether premium Vitamix blenders justify their high price by comparing them to budget alternatives like Ninja and Chefman models. Kitchen experts offer mixed opinions, with some believing Vitamix is worth the investment for frequent users who make soups and nut butters, while others argue most home cooks don't need such expensive equipment.Read more →
Engadget...Vivo's X300 Ultra goes global and gets a huge 400mm Zeiss telephoto lensVivo announced the X300 Ultra flagship smartphone at Mobile World Conference 2026, featuring a 200MP main camera sensor and capabilities for 4K 120fps Dolby Vision HDR recording. The phone is accompanied by professional accessories including a SmallRig video cage and a 400mm Zeiss telephoto extender lens with eight times zoom and gimbal-grade optical image stabilization. These offerings position the X300 Ultra as a premium option for professional photographers and content creators seeking advanced mobile cinematography tools.Read more →
CNET...This Android XR Feature Convinced Me Smart Glasses Aren't So Pointless After AllGoogle demonstrated Android XR prototype glasses at Mobile World Congress featuring AI-powered navigation, live translation, and Gemini integration to overlay contextual information directly in the lens. The glasses address smartphone distraction by enabling navigation and real-time translation without requiring users to look at a screen. With a conventional appearance and practical use cases, the technology represents a promising step toward making AR glasses a mainstream wearable device.Read more →
Gizmodo...Some Alleged Polymarket Insiders Made a Fortune on U.S. Strikes on IranMultiple Polymarket users profited substantially by betting on U.S. military strikes against Iran, with trades placed hours before the action became public, raising concerns about insider trading and market manipulation. Critics and lawmakers argue that prediction markets enabling bets on military actions represent a conflict between profit incentives and ethical concerns about trading on non-public information. The incident highlights ongoing regulatory tensions as prediction markets face scrutiny over their practices despite recent legalization efforts in the U.S.Read more →
Engadget...The best Xbox Series X and Series S accessories for 2026This article provides a comprehensive guide to the best Xbox gaming accessories and games, ranging from Game Pass Ultimate subscription and various controllers to specialized peripherals like flight sticks and racing wheels. It covers recommended hardware from brands including Steelseries, 8BitDo, and Razer, as well as standout titles like Forza Horizon 5 and Hellblade II, helping gamers optimize their setup.Read more →
Gizmodo...Apple Reportedly Warns Retail Workers About Deluge of Customers as It Releases Unusually Cheap GadgetsApple is launching budget-friendly products including an iPhone 17e, entry-level iPad, and a smartphone-chip-powered MacBook to appeal to price-conscious consumers amid flat spending and job market stagnation. The company expects significant customer demand and has warned retail staff to prepare for surge-level traffic. The launch also includes higher-end MacBook Air and Pro models to serve broader consumer segments.Read more →
Engadget...Motorola's Edge 70 Fusion phone has a huge curved 144Hz displayMotorola has launched the Edge 70 Fusion, a mid-range smartphone featuring a standout 6.78-inch quad-curved AMOLED display with 144Hz refresh rate and a 50MP main camera with optical image stabilization and Sony's Lytia 710 sensor. The device balances premium features including IP68 durability and 68W fast charging with an affordable starting price of $430 in Europe, making it attractive for budget-conscious consumers prioritizing display and camera quality. The phone is not expected to be available in the US market.Read more →
The Verge...Tecno’s latest concept phone is lit by neonAfter teasing a magnetic, modular smartphone concept the other day, Tecno has followed that up with another two phone designs centered around color-changing finishes: one with E Ink, and the other incorporating neon. I'm the most taken with the Pova Neon, which the company says includes genuine neon lighting, not just bright colors: it uses […]Read more →
Engadget...TCL is upgrading its easy-on-the-eyes glare-free NXTPAPER display tech with AMOLEDTCL is developing AMOLED NXTPAPER displays that combine eye-comfort technology with flagship visual performance, addressing limitations of current LCD-based screens such as poor brightness and outdoor visibility. The new display will feature 3,200 nits of brightness—3.5 times brighter than existing NXTPAPER models—along with 120Hz refresh rates and enhanced blue light reduction. TCL plans to launch a smartphone featuring the AMOLED NXTPAPER display before the end of 2026.Read more →
Engadget...Qualcomm's Snapdragon Wear Elite chip is made for smartwatches and AI devicesQualcomm launched the Snapdragon Wear Elite processor for smartwatches and AI wearables, delivering up to five times faster single-threaded CPU performance and seven times faster GPU speeds using a new 3nm architecture. The processor features a dedicated Hexagon NPU supporting AI models with two billion parameters, enabling on-device features like context-aware recommendations and natural voice interactions. The chip offers 30% improved battery life and 50% faster charging, with devices from Google, Motorola, and Samsung arriving within the next few months.Read more →
The Verge...Vivo’s next phone will launch with a professional camera rigVivo rarely has a presence at MWC, but this year it bucked that trend in a big way, with the reveal of its next flagship phone, the X300 Ultra, alongside an upgraded telephoto extender lens and professional camera cage. The company isn't ready to launch the handset just yet - or even reveal very many […]Read more →
CNET...Qualcomm's Latest Chip Could Lead a New Wave of Camera-Equipped AI Watches and WearablesQualcomm unveiled the Snapdragon Wear Elite chip for AI-enabled wearables, offering on-device AI processing for up to 2 billion parameter models, integrated camera support, 30% improved battery life, and rapid charging. Samsung, Google, and Motorola plan to launch devices with this chip this summer, marking the beginning of a widespread shift toward always-on AI wearables.Read more →
The Verge...Qualcomm’s new chip is geared toward wearable AI gadgetsLike it or not, more AI wearables may be on the horizon - or at least Qualcomm seems to think so. Today the company announced its new Snapdragon Wear Elite chip. At a press briefing, Qualcomm said it considers the Elite to be a "wrist plus" chip. Meaning, it won't replace the previous W5 Plus, […]Read more →
CNET...Samsung, Google and Motorola to Make AI Watches, Pins, Pendants With New Qualcomm ChipQualcomm announced the Snapdragon Wear Elite chip, a new wearables platform enabling AI-powered devices from Google, Motorola, and Samsung. The chip features on-device AI via a neural processing unit with 30% improved battery life and compatibility with multiple operating systems. This advancement will allow manufacturers to create diverse AI-powered wearables including pins, pendants, and next-generation smartwatches.Read more →
CNET...Motorola's Upcoming Razr Fold Pairs a Massive Battery With a Sleek DesignMotorola is unveiling specifications for its upcoming Razr Fold foldable smartphone set to launch in North America this summer, featuring a 6.6-inch external and 8.1-inch internal display that rivals Samsung and Google offerings. The device stands out with a 6,000-mAh battery supporting 80-watt wired charging, IP48/IP49 water resistance rating, and premium vegan leather backing. With its competitive positioning between Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Pixel 10 Pro Fold, along with seven years of software updates, the Razr Fold aims to capture market share in the premium foldable segment.Read more →
Engadget...Motorola Razr Fold hands-on at MWC 2026: Bright screens, inside and outMotorola unveiled its Razr Fold book-style foldable at MWC 2026, featuring industry-leading display brightness up to 6200 nits—nearly double competitors—alongside a 6000mAh battery, advanced five-camera system with top DXOMARK foldable score, and Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 processor. The device measures just 4.6mm thin when open, positioning it as a premium alternative to Samsung's Z Fold 7.Read more →
The Verge...The Motorola Razr Fold is shaping up to be pure flagshipAn upcoming device will feature a substantial 6,000mAh battery, high-performance chipset, and advanced camera system, offering significant improvements in battery longevity and multimedia capabilities.Read more →
Gizmodo...Where Humane Failed, Qualcomm Imagines the Future Is Filled With AI PinsQualcomm unveiled the Snapdragon Wear Elite chipset, designed to power AI-centric wearable devices beyond smartwatches, including AI pins, pendants, and vision-enabled accessories. The 3nm-process chip features enhanced AI capabilities supporting 2 billion parameter on-device models and improved camera performance for 1080p video at 60fps. Multiple companies are reportedly developing AI wearables using this platform, signaling industry momentum to create practical applications after previous high-profile failures.Read more →
Engadget...Everything announced at MWC 2026: Lenovo's wild foldable gaming handheld, Honor's Robot Phone, and moreMWC 2026 showcases major innovations in mobile and computing, with announcements of Lenovo's foldable Legion Go Fold gaming handheld, Honor's Robot Phone featuring a gimbal-mounted camera, and Xiaomi's premium 17 Ultra smartphone with Leica. Key trends include foldable displays, robotics integration, advanced camera systems, and AI-enhanced features across smartphones, tablets, and gaming devices.Read more →
Engadget...Lenovo's robot concept can help you digitally sign documents (and maybe annoy coworkers)Lenovo unveiled two AI-powered workplace concepts at MWC 2026: the AI Workmate robot with integrated projector and document scanning for office tasks, and the AI Work Companion, a smart desk clock with AI-driven task management and burnout monitoring. Both devices feature on-device AI processing and voice command integration to streamline office collaboration and productivity. These concepts demonstrate Lenovo's vision for integrating spatial and physical AI into professional environments.Read more →
CNET...I'm Enamored With Lenovo's Desktop AI Companions, and I Could Use Their HelpLenovo unveiled Magic Bay Tiko, an AI-powered module with an animated companion that combines pomodoro timing with body-doubling functionality to enhance workplace focus and productivity. The device features agentic AI capabilities and wellness features, with commercial release planned for later in 2026. Lenovo also demonstrated the AI Workmate concept, a tabletop robot designed to assist with presentation generation and digital asset creation.Read more →
CNET...Double Vision: Lenovo Shows Off Detachable Dual-Screen ThinkPad Concept at MWC 2026Lenovo introduced the ThinkBook Modular AI PC Concept at MWC 2026, featuring a detachable 14-inch secondary display that transforms between multiple configurations while maintaining a lightweight 3-pound form factor. Accompanying announcements included updated ThinkPad models with enhanced serviceability features such as tool-free battery removal and user-replaceable ports, reflecting a broader shift toward repairable and modular computing devices.Read more →
The Verge...A robot arm with puppy dog eyes is just one of Lenovo's new desktop AI conceptsThe AI Workmate Concept is an artificial intelligence assistant designed for workplace environments that can scan documents, deliver presentations, and provide companionship. This tool aims to enhance office productivity and employee experience through automation and interactive workplace engagement.Read more →
The Verge...The new Yoga 9i 2-in-1 from Lenovo has an angled ‘canvas mode’ for easier note-takingLenovo has a few new Yoga laptops it's announcing at MWC 2026: the 14-inch Yoga Slim 7i Aura Edition, 15-inch Yoga Pro 7a, and 14-inch Yoga 9i 2-in-1 Aura Edition. The most interesting of the pack is that 9i 2-in-1, outfitted with a 2880 x 1800, 120Hz OLED touchscreen. It includes a Yoga Pen Gen […]Read more →
The Verge...Lenovo’s redesigned ThinkPad Detachable tablet has a bigger screen and legit keyboardLenovo is releasing multiple new ThinkPad and ThinkBook models, expanding its laptop lineup with additional options for business and consumer markets.Read more →
The Verge...Lenovo made a Framework-like laptop with modular ports — and a second screenOne of Lenovo's big laptop concepts for MWC 2026 is a modular ThinkBook with two screens. Officially called the ThinkBook Modular AI PC Concept, the proof-of-concept is a 14-inch productivity machine with two plug-and-play interchangeable ports and a second 14-inch display magnetically attached to the rear of its lid. The second display is removable, and […]Read more →
The Verge...This Windows gaming handheld has a screen that folds in halfLenovo has introduced the Legion Go Fold Concept, a foldable gaming device that expands from a 7.7-inch display to an 11.6-inch screen while functioning as a laptop. This concept device combines the portability of a handheld device with the functionality of a larger-screen computing device. The foldable form factor enables versatile usage scenarios for both gaming and productivity applications.Read more →
Engadget...Lenovo unveils the 2026 refresh of its Yoga 9i 2-in-1 convertible laptop at MWCLenovo launched four new Copilot+ devices at MWC 2026, featuring Intel Core Ultra and AMD Ryzen AI processors designed for AI workloads. The flagship Yoga 9i 2-in-1 Aura Edition introduces Canvas Mode for creative work, while prices range from $419 to $2,099+, with availability from May through October 2026.Read more →
Engadget...Lenovo's ThinkPads get a spec bump at MWC 2026Lenovo refreshed its ThinkPad business laptop lineup at MWC 2026, introducing updated models including the T14 Gen 7, T16 Gen 5, and lighter T14s variants, along with a new X13 Detachable tablet and rugged Android X11 tablet. The new devices feature Intel Core Ultra Series 3 or AMD Ryzen AI Pro 400 Series processors, enhanced cameras with vHDR support, improved speakers, and better repairability scores, with most models shipping in Q2 2026.Read more →
CNET...Lenovo's Dual-Screen Yoga Book Concept Transforms Flat Images Into 3D ModelsLenovo unveiled a series of devices at Mobile World Congress 2026, with the standout Yoga Book Pro 3D concept featuring AI-powered glasses-free 3D technology to help creatives convert 2D sketches into 3D models. The company also refreshed its Legion and Yoga lineups with high-performance gaming tablets and premium laptops, though questions remain about whether the 3D technology is mature enough for mainstream adoption.Read more →
CNET...Lenovo's Legion Go Fold Concept Introduces Very Vertical Gaming on the GoLenovo unveiled the Legion Go Fold, a foldable hybrid device with an 11.6-inch OLED display that transitions between handheld gaming and laptop configurations. The prototype features multiple form factors appealing to gamers and professionals alike, with Lenovo's history suggesting the device could reach consumers within one to two years.Read more →
Gizmodo...The Next Generation of Modular, Repairable Laptops May Have More Than One ScreenLenovo unveiled concept laptops emphasizing modularity and innovation, including a ThinkPad Modular with a removable secondary screen and swappable ports, though limited by proprietary pin connections versus Framework's more accessible USB-C standard. The company also introduced the Yoga Book Pro 3D concept, featuring a glasses-less 3D display paired with a touchscreen stylus interface, designed for creative professionals and 3D modelers.Read more →
Engadget...Lenovo’s latest gaming tablet goes big on batteryLenovo introduced the Legion Tab Gen 5 gaming tablet with a Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 processor, 165Hz 3K display, and upgraded 9,000mAh battery for enhanced performance and extended playtime. The device includes AI-powered audio enhancement and will launch in May starting at $849.Read more →
Gizmodo...The Screen on Lenovo’s Foldable Handheld Is Not Even Its Most Interesting PartLenovo's Legion Go Fold is a concept foldable handheld gaming PC featuring an 11.6-inch folding tablet with detachable controls that support multiple aspect ratios for gaming. Equipped with an Intel Core Ultra 7 258V chip, 32GB RAM, and a wireless keyboard attachment capability, it functions as both a gaming device and backup Windows PC. The device demonstrates Lenovo's strategy to integrate Intel processors into handhelds and explores the future of mobile gaming without discrete GPUs.Read more →
Engadget...The Lenovo Legion Go Fold gaming handheld concept looks awkward but its versatility is endlessLenovo unveiled the Legion Go Fold, a concept gaming handheld with a flexible OLED display that folds from 11.6 inches to 7.7 inches, enabling multiple use cases from portable gaming to laptop-like functionality with a wireless keyboard. The device features detachable controllers with multiple mounting points and a small OLED gamepad display with widgets and touchpad functionality. Though currently a prototype without confirmed production plans, the Legion Go Fold demonstrates significant innovation in portable gaming hardware versatility.Read more →
Engadget...The Lenovo Modular AI PC concept is a remixed dual-screen laptop with hot swappable portsLenovo unveiled a Modular AI PC concept at MWC featuring hot-swappable ports, a secondary display, and detachable keyboard that can be repositioned without rebooting, offering greater adaptability than existing modular laptops like Framework. The system impressed with polished build quality and intuitive modularity, demonstrating practical functionality despite its concept status. While not planned for retail, the design innovations could influence future laptop products with modular capabilities.Read more →
CNET...Motorola's Luxurious Touch Could Be the Razr Fold's Biggest Selling PointMotorola is launching the Razr Fold, its first book-style foldable phone, positioning it as premium lifestyle tech with distinctive materials and design-first engineering. The device will support stylus input on both screens, differentiating it from competitors like Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Google's Pixel Pro Fold. With foldable phone sales projected to grow 30% in 2026, Motorola's luxury-focused approach targets market expansion in this competitive segment.Read more →
Engadget...Best Buy Canada seemingly just leaked Sonos' next portable speakerSonos is preparing to launch the Sonos Play, a new portable speaker featuring Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, AirPlay 2 support, and voice controls. The device was briefly listed on Canadian Best Buy for $399.99 CAD (approximately $300 USD) with a March 31 release date. With IP67 waterproofing and a carrying strap, the speaker expands Sonos's portable audio offerings, with an official announcement likely imminent.Read more →
CNET...Today's NYT Connections: Sports Edition Hints and Answers for March 2, #525The New York Times Connections: Sports Edition is a word puzzle game published by The Athletic featuring sports-themed categories. This guide provides complete hints and answers across four difficulty levels, including NFL team names, March Madness terminology, sports sound effects, and double-word phrases. Players can access the free game through The Athletic's app or online.Read more →
Gizmodo...South Korean Police Lose Seized Crypto By Posting Password OnlineSouth Korea's National Tax Service lost approximately $4.8 million in cryptocurrency after inadvertently publishing wallet seed phrases in an official press release detailing tax enforcement actions. An unknown individual exploited the exposed recovery phrase to access one of the confiscated Ledger wallets and transfer the tokens, demonstrating critical security vulnerabilities in government handling of seized crypto assets. The incident highlights broader risks in cryptocurrency custody and law enforcement agencies' inadequate understanding of digital asset security protocols.Read more →
The Verge...Portable Sonos Play speaker leaks on Canadian Best BuySonos has an unannounced portable speaker called Play set to launch on March 31st, 2026, spotted on Canadian Best Buy at CAD $399.99. The speaker features IP67 waterproofing, 24-hour battery life with wireless charging, multi-room connectivity for up to 32 speakers, and can serve as a power bank via USB-C. It combines portability with advanced audio features including Trueplay automatic tuning and support for AirPlay 2 and Bluetooth 5.3.Read more →
Gizmodo...The Pentagon’s Claude Use in Iran Is a Reminder that Anthropic Never Objected to Military UseDespite Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth's public denunciation of Anthropic and ban on its military use, the Pentagon continues operating Claude for intelligence assessments and military applications. The contradiction highlights ongoing tensions between Anthropic's stated ethical guidelines and actual government military deployment, while Claude simultaneously reaches number one on the app store amid the controversy.Read more →
Gizmodo...Blumhouse Wants to Be Perfectly Balanced for Horror FansBlumhouse Productions is shifting its strategic focus toward established IP franchises over original films, driven by post-COVID audience preferences for recognizable properties with built-in appeal. The studio's recent success with franchise entries like 'Five Nights at Freddy's 2' and mixed results with originals in 2025 have reinforced this direction. While continuing to produce original content at a reduced rate, the studio aims to rebalance its portfolio to better align with how modern audiences choose their entertainment.Read more →
Engadget...Anthropic's Claude grabs top spot in App Store after Trump's banAnthropic's Claude app has become the number one free app on the App Store, surpassing ChatGPT and Google Gemini. This surge follows President Trump's executive order barring federal agencies from using Claude after Anthropic refused to compromise on AI safety guardrails, specifically declining to enable mass surveillance or fully autonomous weapons. The public controversy generated significant user support that propelled Claude to the top position.Read more →
TechCrunch...Polymarket saw $529M traded on bets tied to bombing of IranPrediction market users generated $529 million in trading volume on Polymarket by betting on the timing of U.S. and Israeli military strikes against Iran, with analytics indicating six newly-created accounts profited $1 million by correctly predicting action before February 28. The concentrated profitable bets raise concerns about insider trading and information asymmetry in geopolitical prediction markets.Read more →
TechCrunch...Let’s explore the best alternatives to DiscordDiscord is implementing mandatory age verification by mid-2026, requiring users to submit government IDs or facial recognition data, raising privacy concerns following the platform's previous breach that exposed approximately 70,000 user IDs. The verification requirement is prompting users to evaluate alternative platforms like Stoat, Element, and TeamSpeak that emphasize privacy and security features. Adults will need to verify their status to access age-restricted content and channels.Read more →
The Verge...Kalshi voids some bets on Khamenei’s ouster because it’s ‘directly tied to death’In a statement on X, Kalshi CEO Tarek Mansour said his company would pay out positions on "Ali Khamenei out as Supreme Leader?" at the last trading price before his death. Mansour said that Kalshi doesn't "list markets directly tied to death" and that its rules are designed to "prevent people from profiting from death." […]Read more →
CNET...300,000 Poses in an AI Instant: My Visit to Disney Studios and the New Reality for AnimationDisney has partnered with AI startup Animaj to accelerate animation production, reducing typical production timelines from five months to under five weeks. The AI tool assists animators by automatically generating in-between character movements while human artists retain creative control over key frames and design consistency. This approach positions AI as a productivity tool that augments rather than replaces human artists, addressing industry concerns about automation in creative work.Read more →
Gizmodo...Rivian Announces ‘RAD’ Engineering Team That Tests the Extremes of the Company’s EVsRivian has formally launched the Adventure Department (RAD), a specialized team conducting extreme-condition testing of its vehicles at high altitudes, deserts, and icy terrain to inform product development. These tests demonstrate Rivian's commitment to off-road capability and competitive differentiation as traditional automakers including Mercedes-Benz, Land Rover, Jeep, and Scout Motors prepare to launch competing electric off-road vehicles.Read more →
TechCrunch...Google looks to tackle longstanding RCS spam in India — but not aloneGoogle has partnered with Bharti Airtel to integrate carrier-level spam filtering directly into RCS, addressing persistent fraud issues that have hindered adoption in India. The integration enables real-time sender verification, spam detection, and enforcement of do-not-disturb preferences on business messages. Google signals plans to extend this carrier integration model globally as it positions RCS as the successor to SMS.Read more →
Engadget...The US reportedly used Anthropic's AI for its attack on Iran, just after banning itPresident Trump ordered federal agencies to immediately cease using Anthropic's technology following disagreements with the Department of Defense, establishing a six-month phase-out period. Despite this directive, the US military reportedly used Claude AI in a major military operation against Iran, highlighting tensions between government policy and operational military needs.Read more →
Gizmodo...Radio Silence Wanted Their ‘Scream 7’ to Stab Your Teeth InScream 7's original directors Radio Silence shared their unrealized creative vision after dropping out due to scheduling conflicts with their vampire film project. Their concept would have transformed protagonist Sam Carpenter into a Ghostface killer and compressed the narrative scope into an intense, contained experience, contrasting with Scream 6's expansion to New York.Read more →
TechCrunch...Investors spill what they aren’t looking for anymore in AI SaaS companiesInvestors are increasingly selective about AI startups, shifting away from generic horizontal tools and thin AI wrappers toward companies with proprietary data, deep workflow integration, and real product depth. Key criteria now include AI-native infrastructure, vertical SaaS with data moats, and systems embedded in mission-critical workflows, with UI differentiation alone no longer sufficient. As AI agents become capable of executing workflows directly, traditional workflow automation products lack defensibility without genuine competitive moats and domain expertise.Read more →
Engadget...Everything announced at MWC 2026: Honor's Robot Phone, the new Leica Leitzphone by Xiaomi, and moreMWC 2026 showcases major smartphone and tablet announcements from Honor and Xiaomi, including Honor's innovative Robot Phone with a gimbal-mounted 200MP camera and ultra-thin Magic V6 foldable phone. Xiaomi introduced the premium 17 Ultra smartphone featuring a 1-inch Leica camera sensor and mechanical zoom ring, rolling out globally in Europe.Read more →
Gizmodo...A New Study Links Living Near Nuclear Plants to Higher Cancer Death RatesA Harvard study analyzing U.S. cancer mortality data from 2000-2018 found that counties located closer to operational nuclear power plants experience higher cancer mortality rates than those farther away, with an estimated 6,400 associated cancer deaths annually. The research raises health concerns about nuclear expansion policies being promoted as a climate solution, though researchers emphasize causation has not been established and additional studies are needed.Read more →
TechCrunch...OpenAI reveals more details about its agreement with the PentagonOpenAI secured a Department of Defense contract to deploy AI models in classified environments while Anthropic failed to reach agreement and faced supply-chain restrictions. OpenAI claims its agreement includes safeguards against mass surveillance, autonomous weapons, and automated decision systems, though critics question whether the protections are sufficient given the underlying legal frameworks.Read more →
The Verge...Lego’s Smart Brick is here, and it transforms these new Star Wars setsLego's new Smart Brick is a pretty big deal. It packs a miniature computer, a microphone, and NFC tech into a classic 2×4 Lego brick, which can power all sorts of new experiences with select sets. It has so much promise that we awarded it "best in show" at CES 2026, and now, eight Star […]Read more →
Gizmodo...Nine Inch Nails Has a New ‘Tron: Ares’ Soundtrack to Rock Out ToNine Inch Nails surprise-released 'Tron: Ares - Divergence,' a 20-song collection featuring remixed versions of the Tron: Ares film score by producers including Boys Noize, Mark Pritchard, and Arca, along with previously unreleased material from the band. The album builds on the original Tron: Ares score, which earned a Grammy Award for Best Rock Song and marked the band's first Top 10 Billboard album in over a decade. Physical CD and 2XLP versions will be released on June 5th.Read more →
TechCrunch...Honor says its ‘Robot phone’ with moving camera can dance to musicHonor is developing an innovative 'Robot phone' featuring a movable 200-megapixel camera on a three-axis gimbal with AI-powered object tracking and enhanced video call capabilities. The device includes an interactive AI assistant with personality traits including head movements and dance responses, along with advanced video capture features like Spinshot mode for cinematic shots. Launch is planned for the second half of 2026.Read more →
TechCrunch...Honor launches its new slim foldable Magic V6 with a 6,600 mAh batteryHonor unveiled the Magic V6 foldable smartphone, featuring a 6,600 mAh battery with 80W wired and 66W wireless fast charging capabilities. The device maintains the company's focus on thinness at 4mm unfolded while introducing a new Super Steel Hinge for enhanced durability and a 44% reduced crease depth. The Magic V6 will launch in select international markets in the second half of 2026 with cross-platform compatibility features for Apple devices.Read more →
CNET...'Marshals': How to Watch the Premiere Without CableThe Marshals, a new Yellowstone spin-off featuring Luke Grimes reprising his role as Kayce Dutton, premieres on CBS and Paramount Plus on March 1st. The show will stream on Paramount Plus Premium subscribers immediately, while Essential subscribers can watch on-demand the following day.Read more →
Gizmodo...Soundcore’s New Headphones Have an Absurd Battery Life for the PriceSoundcore unveiled the Space 2, new over-ear wireless headphones priced at $130, targeting the midrange market for budget-conscious travelers. The headphones feature impressive battery life of up to 70 hours and four-stage adaptive active noise cancellation optimized for low-frequency engine noise. With memory foam padding and quality audio drivers, the Space 2 offer competitive features to rival higher-priced alternatives when they launch on April 21.Read more →
The Verge...Soundcore’s Space 2 are an evolution of its budget headphonesSoundcore announced the Space 2 wireless headphones, featuring enhanced low-frequency noise cancellation with redesigned dual-layer drivers and extended battery life of up to 50 hours with ANC. Priced at $129.99 starting April 21st, the updated model improves upon the Space One while competing against offerings from Sony, EarFun, and JLab in the budget ANC headphone segment.Read more →
Engadget...A closer look at Honor’s Robot PhoneHonor unveiled its Robot Phone with a revolutionary micro-motorized gimbal camera featuring four-degree-of-freedom movement and professional-grade cinematic capabilities developed in partnership with ARRI. The device includes AI-powered features like Object Tracking and intelligent rotational video capture, marking a significant advancement in mobile imaging alongside Honor's broader push into robotics and AI technology.Read more →
TechCrunch...Anthropic’s Claude rises to No. 1 in the App Store following Pentagon disputeAnthropic's Claude chatbot has surged to the number one position in Apple's US App Store, overtaking OpenAI's ChatGPT. The rapid climb has been fueled by heightened attention following the company's negotiations with the Pentagon over AI safeguards, which prompted the Trump administration to direct federal agencies to cease using Anthropic products. The company reported record-breaking daily signups this week, with free users increasing more than 60% since January and paid subscribers more than doubling this year.Read more →
CNET...Xiaomi's Leitzphone Looks Exactly Like a Leica Phone ShouldXiaomi's collaboration with Leica has produced the Leitzphone, a flagship Android device that prioritizes photography with a large main sensor, mechanical telephoto zoom, and exclusive Leica color profiles. The phone delivers exceptional camera performance at a premium price point of £1,700 in the UK and approximately $2,300 in the US.Read more →
CNET...First Steps? Honor's Humanoid Robot Makes Its Debut With a Moonwalk and a BackflipHonor became the first smartphone manufacturer to unveil a humanoid robot, marking a significant expansion into robotics and physical AI beyond its traditional device business. The company demonstrated its consumer-focused robot at Mobile World Congress with autonomous capabilities, positioning it for applications in shopping assistance, workplace inspections, and companionship. This move reflects Honor's broader $10 billion AI investment and a growing industry trend toward developing robots designed for consumer use.Read more →
The Verge...Honor claims its Robot Phone will launch later this yearA new camera system integrates a 200-megapixel sensor into a compact four-degree-of-freedom gimbal, reportedly the smallest of its kind. This combination of high-resolution imaging and stabilization technology aims to enhance portability for professional photography and videography applications.Read more →
Gizmodo...Dreame X60 Max Ultra Complete Review: $1,700 Worth of Robot Vacuum ProblemsThe Dreame X60 Max Ultra Complete robot vacuum features innovative hardware design and generally strong mopping capabilities, but is plagued by usability issues including unreliable navigation, inconsistent vacuuming performance, and excessive water waste. At a $1,700 price point, these practical compromises combined with a cluttered app experience make it difficult to justify the cost. The device demonstrates how feature-rich design can overshadow core functionality and user experience.Read more →
TechCrunch...SaaS in, SaaS out: Here’s what’s driving the SaaSpocalypseAI coding agents like Claude Code are disrupting the traditional SaaS business model by enabling companies to build custom software instead of purchasing existing solutions, causing SaaS stock prices to drop as investors question the long-term viability of per-seat pricing models. New AI-native startups are emerging with alternative pricing strategies based on consumption or outcomes, while established SaaS companies face pressure from faster-moving competitors and customers who now have the technical means to develop their own alternatives.Read more →
CNET...My Favorite Galaxy S26 Ultra Feature Comes With a Side of ParanoiaThe Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra introduces a customizable Privacy Display that prevents shoulder surfing, offering practical privacy control superior to traditional screen protectors. The phone features advanced camera improvements including Horizontal Lock for stabilized video recording and AI-powered Photo Assist, while maintaining its $1,300 price point and delivering a thinner, lighter design.Read more →
CNET...Just What Is Mobile World Congress (MWC), Anyway?Mobile World Congress is an annual telecommunications industry conference in Barcelona that showcases technologies destined to become mainstream in consumer smartphones. Historical innovations unveiled at MWC—from Android to 5G—demonstrate the event's significance as a proving ground for technologies affecting billions of smartphone users. This year's event is expected to highlight emerging 6G networks and artificial intelligence technologies.Read more →
CNET...Premier League Soccer 2026: Stream Arsenal vs. Chelsea LiveArsenal hosts Chelsea in a pivotal Premier League title race fixture on Sunday, March 1 at Emirates Stadium, with the match available to stream on Peacock Premium in the US and via Sky Sports, Now, Fubo, and Stan Sport in other regions.Read more →
CNET...I Love the Slim Design of Honor's V6 Foldable PhoneHonor unveiled the V6 foldable phone, a ultra-slim device at 8.75mm when closed with aerospace steel hinge construction offering significantly improved durability. The phone features industry-leading IP68/IP69 water and dust resistance ratings, making it one of the few foldables suitable for use in wet or sandy environments. With Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 processor and advanced AI integration, the V6 will launch in Europe during summer 2026.Read more →
CNET...I Love the Slim Design of Honor's Magic V6 Foldable PhoneHonor's Magic V6 is an ultra-thin book-style foldable phone measuring just 8.75mm when closed, featuring a durable aerospace steel hinge and IP68/IP69 water and dust resistance ratings—a rarity among foldables. The device combines cutting-edge specifications including the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 processor, a 6,600-mAh battery, and a triple camera system, alongside AI-powered features like Gemini integration and cross-device compatibility with Apple MacBooks. The V6 is set to launch in Europe in summer 2026 at a premium price point likely comparable to or exceeding its predecessor's £1,699 price tag.Read more →
Engadget...Honor’s Magic V6 doesn’t have a new rabbit to pull out of its hatHonor released the Magic V6 foldable, its successor to the Magic V5 from seven months prior, further refining the design to achieve an 8.75mm folded thickness while maintaining its position as the world's thinnest foldable. The device introduces a larger silicon-enhanced battery and upgraded Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 processor alongside improved durability features, though most other specifications mirror the previous generation. The rapid release cycle with minimal substantive improvements has raised questions about whether the device was driven by genuine innovation or primarily by competitive pressure from Samsung and anticipated Apple competition.Read more →
The Verge...Resident Evil Requiem leans too much on the series’ pastResident Evil Requiem demonstrates strong potential in its first half through an innovative dual-character perspective that balances newcomer Grace Ashcroft's vulnerability against veteran Leon Kennedy's combat capability. However, the game loses momentum in the second half as it abandons this dynamic in favor of an extended Leon-centric storyline in Raccoon City's nostalgic ruins. The excessive reliance on series nostalgia and a disappointing final boss undermine what could have been a compelling fresh entry to the franchise.Read more →
The Verge...How MLB can make baseball relevant on a fast-changing internetMajor League Baseball is revitalizing fan engagement through social media partnerships with TikTok and content creators, building on record 2025 World Series viewership. The league is shifting strategy from copyright enforcement to supporting fan-created content, while players develop personal brands across podcasts and streaming platforms. Success faces challenges from pending labor negotiations and the need to sustain interest beyond high-profile events.Read more →
The Verge...Meta won’t let morality get in the way of a product launchMeta is launching a facial recognition feature called Name Tag on Ray-Ban smart glasses that can identify people in real life, raising significant privacy and surveillance concerns. The company strategically timed the rollout during a politically turbulent period when civil liberties organizations are focused elsewhere, and critics warn the technology could be exploited by government agencies for mass surveillance and targeting of vulnerable populations.Read more →
The Verge...Honor’s Magic V6 is the first foldable with an IP69 ratingHonor unveiled the Magic V6 foldable phone, featuring a 4mm thickness when open, the largest foldable battery at 6,660mAh, and an IP69 water-resistance rating. The device utilizes advanced silicon-carbon battery technology and enhances Apple ecosystem compatibility. It launches in China this month with international availability later in the year.Read more →
Engadget...How to share your location via satellite on iPhoneApple's satellite location sharing feature allows iPhone 14 and later users to send location updates via satellite when cellular and Wi-Fi coverage are unavailable, making it valuable for remote areas and regions with limited connectivity. The feature requires a clear view of the sky, uses limited bandwidth for non-real-time location snapshots, and is available free for two years after device activation, though it should not be relied upon for emergencies.Read more →
CNET...Stop Wasting Money: The Hidden Energy Vampire Draining Your WalletAn experiment measuring household device standby power identified the DirecTV cable box as the worst offender at 19.9 watts per day, costing approximately $27.89 annually, while many devices like modern TVs and chargers proved surprisingly efficient. The findings demonstrate that strategic unplugging and managing standby power—which typically accounts for 5-10% of residential energy usage—can reduce household electricity bills by roughly $100 per year.Read more →
CNET...These 6 Expert-Backed Vitamins Will Help You Age WellThe article discusses six essential nutrients for healthy aging: magnesium, B vitamins, calcium, vitamin D, omega-3s, and zinc. Medical experts explain how each nutrient supports specific bodily functions and prevents age-related chronic conditions, with recommended daily amounts and food sources for each.Read more →
CNET...Xiaomi 17 Ultra is a Sparkling Photography PowerhouseXiaomi unveiled the Xiaomi 17 Ultra at MWC, offering flagship camera specifications identical to its pricier Leitzphone model at a lower price point of £1,299. While the base model forgoes premium features like the physical control wheel and Leica color profiles, it retains the powerful Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 processor and advanced camera system with large LOFIC sensor and continuous optical zoom. This positions the 17 Ultra as an excellent choice for photography enthusiasts seeking flagship camera performance without the luxury Leica branding premium.Read more →
CNET...After Testing 3 Methods, This Is My New Favorite Way to Make BaconThis approach delivered the best bacon with the least amount of hassle.Read more →
Gizmodo...From Quantum Spam to Quantum Minds: Why the ‘Best’ Revolution in Physics Is Only Getting StartedPaul Davies' new book examines the evolution from traditional quantum mechanics (Quantum 1.0, developed in 1925) to Quantum 2.0, which enables manipulation of individual quantum particles for revolutionary applications in computing, medicine, and biology. The distinction lies in actively exploiting quantum properties like entanglement and superposition rather than merely relying on passive quantum principles in existing technologies. Future quantum AI systems could fundamentally transform human understanding and potentially enable direct interfaces between human consciousness and quantum computing.Read more →
CNET...These MWC Phones and Gadgets Were Wild, So What Happened to Them?This article reviews past Mobile World Congress product launches that failed to achieve lasting market success despite promising innovation. Products including the Humane AI pin, Motorola's rollable and wrist-mounted phones, and Samsung's Galaxy Ring either ceased operations, remained vaporware, or failed to gain mainstream adoption. The analysis demonstrates how compelling technological concepts from major tech firms often struggle to translate into successful consumer products.Read more →
Gizmodo...Disgraced Mt Gox CEO Suggests Bitcoin Hard Fork to Recover $5 Billion in Customer FundsFormer Mt Gox CEO Mark Karpeles proposed a Bitcoin hard fork to recover roughly 80,000 BTC stolen in 2011, but the Bitcoin community rapidly rejected the proposal as an attack on the protocol's fundamental principles of censorship resistance and neutrality. The rejection underscores the cryptocurrency's commitment to immutability, even when significant assets are at stake.Read more →
CNET...Scottish Premiership Soccer 2026: Stream Rangers vs. Celtic LiveGlasgow rivals Rangers and Celtic compete in the Old Firm derby on Sunday, March 1, with kickoff at noon GMT. The match will be streamed on Paramount Plus in the US and Sky Sports in the UK, offering either team an opportunity to close the gap on league leaders Hearts.Read more →
CNET...If You're Buying the iPhone 16E Right Now, Stop! The iPhone 17E Is Almost HereApple is expected to unveil the iPhone 17E, a successor to its budget iPhone 16E, at a March 4 event. The iPhone 17E could feature more advanced specifications such as dual cameras while maintaining an affordable price point. Consumers are advised to wait for the official announcement before purchasing, as older models typically receive price reductions upon new releases.Read more →
TechCrunch...The trap Anthropic built for itselfThe Trump administration blacklisted Anthropic from Pentagon contracts and federal use after the AI company refused to allow its technology for mass surveillance or autonomous weapons systems. Max Tegmark argues that AI companies have brought this situation upon themselves by resisting binding regulation while making unfulfilled safety commitments, resulting in a regulatory vacuum that mirrors dangerous precedents in industries like pharmaceuticals and tobacco.Read more →
Gizmodo...Claude is the Number 2 Free App in Apple’s App Store NowThe Trump administration's criticism and attempts to limit Anthropic's government contracts paradoxically boosted Claude app downloads, which rose to number two on Apple's U.S. free apps chart. The phenomenon exemplifies the Streisand Effect, where negative attention generates unexpected consumer interest. This suggests political opposition can inadvertently increase adoption of controversial technology platforms.Read more →
TechCrunch...Why did Netflix back down from its deal to acquire Warner Bros.?Netflix withdrew its bid to acquire Warner Bros. Discovery, allowing Paramount Skydance to complete the deal, citing financial discipline and shareholder concerns. The decision came after Netflix's stock declined 30% following the initial announcement, reflecting significant investor skepticism about the acquisition's value. The withdrawal announcement actually boosted Netflix's stock price by nearly 14%, validating the company's cautious approach to capital allocation.Read more →
TechCrunch...What to know about the landmark Warner Bros. Discovery saleParamount acquired Warner Bros. Discovery in a $111 billion deal after outbidding Netflix, consolidating major streaming and entertainment assets including HBO, studios, CNN, and HGTV. The transaction faces significant regulatory scrutiny from state and federal authorities concerned about market consolidation, along with concerns about substantial debt burden and potential job losses under new ownership.Read more →
Gizmodo...Washington State Residents Pressed 2 for Spanish. The Bot Spoke Spanish-Accented English InsteadWashington State's Department of Licensing accidentally configured its phone tree so that selecting the Spanish language option played English text in a Spanish accent, caused by confusing Amazon Polly's text-to-speech platform with translation software. The error gained millions of views after being shared on TikTok and became a widely-discussed example of technology implementation misconfiguration.Read more →
Gizmodo...Let the ‘Marvel Maximum Collection’ Take You Back to Your ChildhoodMarvel and Konami are releasing the Marvel Maximum Collection, a compilation of six classic '90s Marvel video games originally released on SNES, Genesis, and arcade platforms. The modernized collection features additions like a music player, rewind functionality, save states, and high-resolution artwork scans. The collection will launch on Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5, Steam, and Xbox Series X|S later in 2026.Read more →
TechCrunch...Anthropic’s Claude rises to No. 2 in the App Store following Pentagon disputeClaude has risen to the number two free app in Apple's US App Store, climbing from outside the top 100 in late January. The surge appears tied to heightened public attention following Anthropic's Pentagon negotiations over AI safeguards and the Trump administration's directive to federal agencies to stop using Anthropic products.Read more →
CNET...How to Watch the 2026 MotoGP Season Live From AnywhereThe 2026 MotoGP season launches March 1st through November 22nd, featuring defending champion Marc Márquez and a potential brotherly rivalry with his younger brother Álex, plus new riders like Turkish champion Toprak Razgatlıoğlu joining the grid. Fox Sports broadcasts all races in the US, with coverage available on streaming services including Sling TV, YouTube TV, and Fubo, while international viewers can access races through TNT Sports (UK), Kayo Sports (Australia), and Sportsnet (Canada). The season includes calendar adjustments with Brazil replacing Argentina and the UK round moving to its traditional August slot.Read more →
CNET...Today's NYT Connections: Sports Edition Hints and Answers for March 1, #524This guide provides hints and answers for The New York Times Connections: Sports Edition puzzle, available through The Athletic app and online. The puzzle features four themed groups: synonyms for bet, pre-snap football motions, tennis racket brands, and phrases beginning with field.Read more →
The Verge...Polymarket defends its decision to allow betting on war as ‘invaluable’Polymarket has been allowing people to bet on when the US would strike Iran next. Obviously, now that it's actually happened and people have died, the prediction betting market is feeling some pressure. The site has been at the center of controversy before, including suspicions of insider trading on the Super Bowl halftime show and […]Read more →
TechCrunch...The billion-dollar infrastructure deals powering the AI boomTech companies are investing hundreds of billions to build AI infrastructure, with hyperscalers planning approximately $700 billion in data center capex for 2026 alone. Major deals including Oracle's $300 billion agreement with OpenAI and Meta's $600 billion infrastructure plan reflect the industry's commitment to supporting AI model training and deployment. This unprecedented investment raises questions about power grid capacity, financial sustainability, and long-term return on investment.Read more →
Engadget...This retro-inspired handheld comes with Banjo-Kazooie and Battletoads built inHyperMegaTech! and Rare Ltd. released the Super Pocket Rare Edition, a handheld device featuring 14 classic games including the originally Nintendo 64-based Banjo-Kazooie optimized for D-pad controls. The vertical handheld brings iconic Rare titles like Battletoads and Conker's Pocket Tales to a modern portable platform.Read more →
Gizmodo...Minnesota Lawmakers and Police Seek Complete Ban on Crypto ATMsMinnesota lawmakers have introduced legislation to ban crypto ATMs statewide following documented scams costing residents $540,000 annually, with similar regulatory efforts emerging across multiple states. The FBI reports over $333 million in crypto ATM-related fraud losses in 2025, particularly targeting vulnerable and elderly populations through coordinated criminal schemes. Proposed federal and state regulations aim to impose transaction limits, compliance requirements, and fraud protections on operators while addressing international criminal networks exploiting these platforms.Read more →
Gizmodo...Watch Marlon Wayans React to His ‘Scary Movie 6’ TrailerScary Movie 6's teaser debuted at Scream 7's opening night through a surprise in-theater appearance by Marlon Wayans, generating positive audience reactions. The comedy film reunites franchise stars including Wayans, Regina Hall, Anna Faris, and others, positioned as equal opportunity humor. The film is scheduled to release on June 12.Read more →
The Verge...The Rubin Observatory’s alert system sent 800,000 pings on its first nightThe Vera C. Rubin Observatory's automated alert system went live on February 24th, generating approximately 800,000 alerts per night for astronomical phenomena including asteroids, supernovas, and black holes. The system compares nightly camera images against reference baselines and uses algorithms to automatically categorize event types and deliver alerts within minutes. This enables astronomers to rapidly respond to transient celestial events while filtering alerts by type, brightness, or frequency to manage discovery volume.Read more →
Gizmodo...Sam Altman Is Marketing OpenAI as America’s Wartime AI Company Whether He Intends to or NotOpenAI secured a Pentagon deal to deploy models on classified networks while Anthropic was simultaneously blacklisted as a supply-chain security risk for its ethical restrictions on mass surveillance and autonomous weapons. The contrasting outcomes underscore the strategic implications of AI companies' stances on military applications and reflect broader tensions between maximizing deployment and maintaining ethical constraints.Read more →
Gizmodo...First Film to Depict a Robot Discovered in MichiganA long-lost 45-second silent film titled 'Gugusse and the Automaton' from 1897 by French filmmaker Georges Méliès was rediscovered in Michigan, believed to be the first cinematic depiction of a robot. The film shows a magician controlling a child-sized robot that grows to full size, performs a dance, and engages in slapstick combat with the magician. The discovery is particularly significant given that approximately 90% of films made before 1930 have been lost to history.Read more →
Engadget...Alaska could be the next state to crack down on AI-generated CSAM and restrict kids' social media useAlaska's House unanimously passed HB47, imposing a statewide social media curfew (10:30 PM - 6:30 AM) for minors and requiring age verification and parental consent on platforms. The bill also bans harmful deepfakes of children and addictive design features, marking a significant regulatory shift in protecting minors online.Read more →
CNET...Shooting Videos of Fancy Cars With the Galaxy S26's New Camera Feature Is a DreamSamsung's Galaxy S26 features Horizontal Lock, an advanced image stabilization mode that maintains a steady horizon regardless of phone tilt during recording. Tested effectively on moving subjects in Barcelona, the technology salvages shaky footage and improves video quality for casual users. The feature has practical applications for emergency documentation and professional videography.Read more →
Engadget...Shuttered studio Bluepoint reportedly pitched a Bloodborne remake, but it got shot down by FromSoftwareBluepoint Games pitched a Bloodborne remake to FromSoftware in early 2025, but the pitch was rejected. FromSoftware president Hidetaka Miyazaki intends to personally oversee any Bloodborne remake and does not want other studios to work on it. This decision blocks opportunities for reimagining the classic 2015 Gothic horror RPG despite Bluepoint's proven track record with successful remakes like Demon's Souls.Read more →
Gizmodo...‘Sinners’ Gets an NPR Tiny Desk Concert That’s So Damn GoodNPR released a Tiny Desk concert featuring actors Miles Caton and Buddy Guy from the film Sinners, performing the film's soundtrack including the Oscar-nominated song "I Lied to You." The performance showcases the quality of the film's music, which is under consideration for Academy Awards. Buddy Guy recently won a Grammy for Best Traditional Blues Album in 2026.Read more →
Engadget...Everything announced at MWC 2026: The new Leica Leitzphone by Xiaomi, Honor's ultra-thin MagicPad 4 and moreMWC 2026 features major announcements from Xiaomi and Honor, including the Xiaomi 17 Ultra and Leica Leitzphone smartphones with advanced camera systems featuring 1-inch sensors and 200MP telephoto capabilities, alongside the Honor MagicPad 4 tablet claiming to be the world's thinnest at 4.8mm. These flagship devices showcase cutting-edge photography capabilities and premium displays with high refresh rates and exceptional brightness levels.Read more →
TechCrunch...OpenAI’s Sam Altman announces Pentagon deal with ‘technical safeguards’OpenAI has reached an agreement with the Department of Defense allowing use of its AI models on classified networks, with built-in safeguards against domestic mass surveillance and autonomous weapons systems. This contrasts with Anthropic's refusal to accept similar terms, leading the Trump administration to designate Anthropic a supply chain risk and ban federal agencies from using its products. OpenAI CEO Sam Altman emphasized the agreement includes technical safeguards and human oversight, and called for similar terms to be extended to all AI companies.Read more →
The Verge...You can still grab great deals on Bose headphones and Astro Bot this weekendSamsung unveiled its Galaxy S26 lineup this week with strong preorder deals across retailers, particularly Amazon's bundle offering a $200 gift card and storage upgrade on the Ultra model. The article showcases weekend sales on consumer tech products including audio equipment, gaming monitors, handheld devices, and accessories at significant discounts. Featured deals span the acclaimed Astro Bot PlayStation 5 exclusive to various hardware and gadgets from established tech brands.Read more →
Gizmodo...Paramount’s New ‘G.I. Joe’ Movie Plans Sound Dumb as HellParamount is developing two separate G.I. Joe movie treatments with Danny McBride and Max Landis as part of its third major franchise revival attempt. The project notably includes Max Landis, who faced sexual assault accusations in 2017, reflecting Paramount Skydance's pattern of hiring individuals with misconduct allegations.Read more →
CNET...Toto Invented a Toilet That Washes Its Own RimToto introduced the Aurora Washlet Plus S7A at KBIS 2026, featuring an advanced Integravity System that increases cleaning coverage by five times through dual-valve gravity-driven flushing technology. The toilet combines water efficiency (1-1.28 gallons per flush versus the federal standard of 1.6) with integrated bidet functionality and auto-cleaning features using electrolyzed water technology. Priced at $3,648, the device represents significant advances in automated toilet technology designed to minimize manual bathroom maintenance.Read more →
TechCrunch...Xiaomi launches 17 Ultra smartphone, an AirTag clone, and an ultra slim powerbankXiaomi launched the Xiaomi 17 Ultra flagship smartphone with a Leica partnership, featuring a 200-megapixel telephoto camera with variable zoom and advanced computational photography features. The launch encompasses a comprehensive product ecosystem including a special Leica edition phone, photography kits, smartwatch, electric scooter, AirTag clone, power bank, and earbuds, available across EU and UK markets.Read more →
TechCrunch...Why China’s humanoid robot industry is winning the early marketChina's humanoid robotics industry is outpacing global competitors through superior hardware supply chains and manufacturing infrastructure, enabling faster innovation cycles and cheaper mass production. Companies like Unitree and Agibot are shipping significantly more units than U.S. rivals, with the sector shifting from demonstrations to operational deployment in manufacturing, logistics, and retail applications. The convergence of government policy, industrial strategy, and private capital is accelerating adoption, though software and data scarcity remain significant challenges.Read more →
CNET...Best VPN for iPhone 2026: Boost Your Privacy on the GoThis guide evaluates key factors for selecting an iPhone VPN app, prioritizing privacy features such as AES 256-bit encryption, no-logs policies, and strong jurisdictional protections. Performance considerations include minimal speed reduction, extensive server networks across 100+ countries, and the ability to unblock geo-restricted streaming content. Premium VPNs typically cost $5-15 per month or $30-100 annually, with caution advised against free services that compromise privacy.Read more →
CNET...Splendid Spoon Review: Our Thoughts on the Vegan, Gluten-Free Meals and 5-Day DetoxSplendid Spoon is a subscription meal delivery service offering vegan, gluten-free prepared meals including smoothies, soups, and grain bowls that are frozen and ready to eat within minutes. The service provides convenient nutrition for those with dietary restrictions and uses eco-friendly recyclable packaging, though meals are priced at $4.25-$13.49 per serving and are generally solid but rarely exceptional.Read more →
CNET...Oura Ring Launched an AI Chatbot for Women: The Details You Should KnowOura has launched its first proprietary AI model specifically for women's health, currently available for testing in Oura Labs within Oura Advisor. The custom large language model combines generative AI with Oura's biometric tracking to answer questions about menopause, menstrual cycles, fertility, and related health topics while analyzing data from the user's Oura Ring. Designed by board-certified physicians and women's health experts, the model provides evidence-based guidance and helps users prepare for appointments with their healthcare providers.Read more →
CNET...The Photos I've Taken on Xiaomi's Leica Phone Are Some of My Best EverThe Leica Leitzphone is a Xiaomi collaboration featuring professional-grade camera hardware that earned CNET Editors' Choice award. The device produces images rivaling dedicated cameras through authentic Leica color profiles, advanced zoom capabilities, and sophisticated processing that preserves rich tonal depth.Read more →
Engadget...Xiaomi 17 Ultra hands-on: Incredible cameras, but maybe hard to getXiaomi launches the 17 Ultra flagship smartphone, featuring a standout 1-inch 50-megapixel main camera sensor in partnership with Leica, alongside a 200MP telephoto lens with advanced optical zoom capabilities and a 6,000mAh battery. The device rolls out across Europe starting at £1,299 but remains unavailable in the US market, continuing Xiaomi's pattern of limiting global availability for its flagship offerings.Read more →
The Verge...Xiaomi’s tracker doesn’t need a case to clip to your keysXiaomi has announced its first Bluetooth tracker, and while the Xiaomi Tag has a more elongated design than the Apple AirTag, that lets you use it in more places right out of the box. On one end of the tracker you'll find an integrated metal loop that can be attached to a keyring or clipped […]Read more →
The Verge...Xiaomi’s Leica Leitzphone mostly earns the nameXiaomi has released the Leitzphone, the first international Leica-branded phone featuring the 17 Ultra flagship with Leica's red dot logo on hardware for the first time. The device boasts an impressive camera system with continuous optical zoom, two-day battery life, and Leica-customized software, though its significant premium over the standard 17 Ultra is not fully justified by its features.Read more →
The Verge...Xiaomi 17 is a small(ish) phone with a big(ish) batteryXiaomi has launched a new smartphone in Europe alongside the larger Xiaomi 17 Ultra, a photography-focused variant designed for users prioritizing advanced camera capabilities. This dual-product strategy allows Xiaomi to target both mainstream and enthusiast segments in the European market.Read more →
CNET...The Luna Ring Just Became the World’s First Smart Ring You Can Talk to About Your HealthLuna's new Luna Ring Gen 2 uses Google Gemini-powered AI voice control to let users verbally log health activities, meals, and supplements directly to their wearable, eliminating the need to manually enter data in an app. The $329 ring offers no-subscription tracking and contextual health insights, representing a shift toward conversational wearables. The device is currently unavailable in the US due to patent disputes with Oura, though Luna plans to return to the market in the coming months.Read more →
CNET...I've Finally Got My Dream Camera Phone: Xiaomi's Leica Leitzphone ReviewXiaomi and Leica have created the Leitzphone, a premium flagship with a new LOFIC image sensor and physical control ring that delivers professional-grade photography capabilities on a smartphone. At £1,700, it represents a major advancement in mobile imaging and earned CNET's Editors' Choice for its exceptional camera quality and Leica-inspired color profiles.Read more →
The Verge...The Witcher is a perfect fit for Reigns’ Tinder-like roleplayingNerial's development team details the creative and technical process of integrating Geralt from The Witcher franchise into their choose-your-own-adventure game series, showcasing the collaboration and adaptation of the iconic character for interactive storytelling.Read more →
Engadget...Leica’s Leitzphone by Xiaomi has a huge 1-inch camera sensor and a stylish new designXiaomi and Leica announced the Leitzphone, a new flagship smartphone representing their deepest collaboration to date, featuring a 1-inch camera sensor, Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 processor, and a 6.9-inch 120Hz display with up to 3,500 nits brightness. The device's interface and design were developed by Leica, emphasizing intuitive camera controls and premium aesthetics. Priced at €1,999, the Leitzphone marks the first phone manufactured by Xiaomi but co-branded and sold directly by both companies.Read more →
Gizmodo...Shokz OpenFit Pro Review: Open Earbuds With the One Thing You’ve Always WantedThe Shokz OpenFit Pro introduce noise reduction technology to open-ear wireless earbuds, a significant innovation previously unavailable in this category due to the lack of ear seal. Priced at $250, they deliver excellent sound quality enhanced by Dolby Atmos, comfortable fit, and solid battery life, though the noise reduction works best in moderate rather than extremely loud environments.Read more →
CNET...I Watched a Play in AR. It Made Me Feel More Connected to Actual RealityAn Ark is a mixed reality theater experience at The Shed in New York City that uses Magic Leap 2 glasses to present volumetrically captured performances by actors including Ian McKellen. The piece demonstrates how AR can create intimate, emotionally resonant shared experiences while raising important questions about the future of live theater and the challenges of making immersive technology accessible to diverse audiences.Read more →
CNET...Hey Samsung, Please Stop Forcing AI on MeSamsung's Unpacked event unveiled AI-integrated features across its new Galaxy S26 and Galaxy Buds 4 Pro lineup, including an Ask AI browser tool and AI photo editing capabilities. However, the author expresses concerns that while AI offers convenience, the pervasive integration raises privacy risks and removes valuable human engagement from everyday tasks like photo sharing and text editing.Read more →
The Verge...A legendary weather app makes a comebackInstaller No. 117 is The Verge's weekly newsletter featuring the latest tech product launches, app recommendations, and entertainment picks. This week's highlights include Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra, Acme Weather's comeback, AI-powered apps like Wispr Flow and Notion custom agents, plus curated entertainment recommendations from editors and the community.Read more →
Gizmodo...The Best Gadgets of February 2026February 2026 saw a surge of consumer tech releases at elevated prices due to RAM shortages, with Samsung's Galaxy S26 flagship phones leading through AI-enhanced features and innovative hardware like the Privacy Display. The month showcased diverse products across mobile, gaming, and audio categories, from wireless earbuds to gaming peripherals featuring new haptic technology. Manufacturers demonstrated how AI integration and supply chain challenges are reshaping consumer electronics pricing and feature differentiation.Read more →
CNET...5 Places You Should Never Keep a Bottle of Wine, According to ExpertsExpert wine sommeliers share best practices for proper wine storage, emphasizing that consistent, cool, dark conditions between 50-59 degrees Fahrenheit are essential to maintain quality. Common mistakes include storing wine in kitchens, car trunks, and above refrigerators, while understanding whether a wine is meant for immediate consumption or long-term aging is crucial for optimal enjoyment.Read more →
CNET...Premier League Soccer 2026: Stream Liverpool vs. West Ham LiveLiverpool hosts West Ham in a Premier League match on February 28, with the Reds pursuing Champions League qualification and West Ham battling relegation. The match will be available on USA Network in the US, Fubo in Canada, and Stan Sport in Australia.Read more →
Engadget...Steam Next Fest, a different flavor of The Witcher and other new indie games worth checking outThis article provides a comprehensive roundup of the indie gaming landscape, highlighting Steam Next Fest demos and upcoming releases including roguelike deckbuilders, platformers, and narrative-focused games. The coverage demonstrates the breadth of innovation in independent game development, from cozy management sims to challenging Soulslike experiences across multiple platforms.Read more →
CNET...The Best Smart Baby Monitors of 2026, as Tested by MomsCNET reviewed and ranked the best baby monitors to help parents select devices that fit their needs and lifestyle. The guide covers options ranging from budget-friendly audio-only monitors under $40 to advanced Wi-Fi-enabled models with AI features and health tracking costing over $300. Key purchasing considerations include connectivity type, specific features, battery life, and subscription requirements.Read more →
CNET...There's a Total Lunar Eclipse Next Week. Here's How to See ItA total lunar eclipse will occur on March 3, 2026, marking the final eclipse in a trilogy that began in 2025. North America will have viewing opportunities with varying visibility depending on location, and this will be the last total lunar eclipse visible until 2028. The moon will turn into a blood moon as sunlight passes through Earth's atmosphere, and no special equipment is required to view the event.Read more →
Gizmodo...The War on Poaching Has Gone Full Tech Dystopia—and It May Not Be WorkingModern wildlife conservation has increasingly adopted militarized approaches using AI surveillance, drones, and paramilitary tactics, often resulting in human rights abuses and community displacement in African nations. The reduction in U.S. international conservation funding is accelerating reliance on less accountable private security contractors. Experts warn that enforcement-first strategies breed community distrust rather than addressing underlying causes of poaching such as poverty and land dispossession.Read more →
CNET...The Most Useless Security Cam Features and Why You Don't Need ThemThis article examines unnecessary features in modern home security cameras and advises homeowners on which capabilities they can safely skip to save money. Features like pan/tilt, NVR support, 4K resolution, LTE connections, and spotlight capabilities are often marketed as upgrades but provide limited practical benefit for typical home installations. By understanding the actual utility of each feature, consumers can simplify their setups and invest in more cost-effective camera systems.Read more →
CNET...Best AV Receiver for 2026CNET's comprehensive buying guide reviews top AV receivers for 2026, recommending the Onkyo TX-NR6100 as the best overall value option, along with models optimized for power users, cinematic experiences, and gaming. Key selection factors include HDMI connectivity, Dolby Atmos support, 4K/120Hz compatibility, and wireless streaming capabilities, with prices ranging from under $1,000 to over $5,000 depending on features and performance requirements.Read more →
The Verge...Tenways nearly perfects the shareable city e-bikeThe Tenways CGO Compact is a €1,999 e-bike designed for easy sharing among riders of varying heights, with quick-adjustment seat and handlebar systems that adapt in seconds. Its compact 20-inch wheels and flat-folding profile make it ideal for urban storage and transport, while delivering sturdy construction and strong cargo capacity for city commuting.Read more →
Engadget...OpenAI strikes a deal with the Defense Department to deploy its AI modelsOpenAI has secured a deployment agreement with the U.S. Department of Defense to deploy its models in classified systems, following Trump's order to eliminate Anthropic's Claude from government use. Both OpenAI and xAI accepted DoD deployment terms while maintaining safety principles on mass surveillance and autonomous weapons, though the specifics remain unclear. Anthropic has refused similar pressure to remove its safety guardrails and vows to challenge any supply chain risk designation in court.Read more →
TechCrunch...India disrupts access to popular developer platform Supabase with blocking orderSupabase, a popular open-source database platform, has been blocked in India by government order under Section 69A of the Information Technology Act, with no publicly disclosed reason. The blockade significantly impacts India's developer ecosystem, as the country accounts for approximately 9% of Supabase's global traffic and experienced 179% year-over-year growth. The incident highlights broader concerns about India's website blocking practices and the uncertainty they create for developers and startups relying on such infrastructure.Read more →
CNET...Ultrahuman Ring Pro Brings Better Battery Life, More Action and AnalysisUltrahuman unveiled the Ring Pro smart ring featuring up to 15 days of battery life and enhanced health tracking capabilities, introducing Jade AI to provide real-time health interventions based on user data. The device offers improved heart-rate sensing, stores up to 250 days of health data, and includes an advanced charging case. However, the Ring Pro is unavailable in the US due to a patent dispute with competitor Oura Ring, with preorders available in other regions for March shipment.Read more →
The Verge...The best instant cameras you can buy right nowThis comprehensive buying guide evaluates instant cameras from major brands including Fujifilm, Polaroid, and Kodak, recommending the Fujifilm Instax Mini 12 as the best choice for most users due to its balance of print quality, ease of use, and affordability. The guide covers multiple alternatives for different needs, such as the premium Instax Mini Evo for creative control, the Polaroid Go for portability, and the Polaroid Flip for retro enthusiasts, with prices ranging from $80 to $400. Key considerations highlighted include film costs, image quality in various lighting conditions, available features, and suitability for different users from children to advanced photographers.Read more →
CNET...No Prescription Needed: The 9 Best Places to Buy Reading Glasses OnlineCNET provides a comprehensive buyer's guide for purchasing reading glasses online, comparing top retailers including GlassesUSA, Eyebuydirect, and Warby Parker across factors such as lens strength options, pricing, shipping policies, and warranty coverage. The article includes expert guidance on presbyopia management, lens materials, and selecting appropriate prescription strengths, helping consumers choose reading glasses that suit their vision needs and budget.Read more →
CNET...Spotify Expands Into Audiobook Rankings With Weekly ChartsSpotify has launched audiobook popularity charts available to both free and Premium users across the US and UK, enabling real-time discovery of trending titles. The feature mirrors Spotify's successful approach with Music and Podcasts Charts, designed to increase audiobook demand and engagement. This addition builds on Spotify's audiobook expansion since 2022, complemented by AI-powered tools like Recaps and PageMatch.Read more →
Gizmodo...If You Love ‘Chainsaw Man,’ You Should Read ‘Dorohedoro’ and ‘Dai Dark’ ImmediatelyThe article recommends manga series Dorohedoro and Dai Dark by Q Hayashida, highlighting her exceptional ability to blend dark fantasy and sci-fi genres seamlessly. These influential works have directly shaped modern manga and inspired renowned creators like Tatsuki Fujimoto, establishing Hayashida as one of the medium's most acclaimed artists.Read more →
The Verge...NASA is pushing back its plans for a Moon landingNASA has postponed its Moon surface landing from Artemis III in 2027 to Artemis IV in 2028, following safety recommendations that cited excessive technical and operational risks. Artemis III will now serve as a test flight, while NASA increases mission cadence with additional test flights planned for 2027 and annual surface landings thereafter. The decision reflects concerns about combining multiple first-of-a-kind objectives in a single mission alongside ongoing delays to Artemis II.Read more →
The Verge...Defense secretary Pete Hegseth designates Anthropic a supply chain riskThe U.S. Department of War has designated Anthropic as a supply-chain security risk and banned federal contractors from conducting business with the company, citing Anthropic's refusal to provide unrestricted military access to its AI models. The government is implementing a six-month transition period before fully severing ties with Anthropic. This action reflects escalating tensions between AI developers and the U.S. military over control and oversight of advanced AI systems.Read more →
Engadget...FCC approves the merger of cable giants Cox and CharterThe FCC approved Charter Communications' $34.5 billion acquisition of Cox Communications, with regulators claiming the merger will deliver network upgrades, expanded rural broadband access, job creation, and lower consumer prices. The deal consolidates two major US cable providers, with Charter absorbing Cox's managed IT, commercial fiber, and cloud businesses. However, critics cite historical precedent from similar telecom mergers that resulted in layoffs and price increases rather than consumer benefits.Read more →
TechCrunch...OpenAI fires employee for using confidential info on prediction marketsOpenAI fired an employee for using confidential company information to trade on prediction markets like Polymarket, violating the company's insider information policy. This action highlights the emerging conflict between prediction markets and corporate confidentiality, where non-public information can be leveraged for financial gain. The incident raises questions about how platforms like Polymarket and Kalshi will address insider trading concerns.Read more →
Gizmodo...A Dish of Neurons Playing DOOM Is the Wildest Thing I’ve Seen in AgesCortical Labs successfully demonstrated human neurons playing Doom by mounting 200,000 neurons on a microchip that maps game inputs to electrical stimuli and neural signals to player actions. The neurons are capable of learning and improving performance over time, representing a significant breakthrough in biocomputing. The company is now offering developer access through the Cortical Cloud API, raising important questions about the ethical use of human neurons in computing systems.Read more →
Gizmodo...‘Mars Express’ Is Phenomenal Because It Remembers What Cyberpunk Actually MeansMars Express is a 2023 animated cyberpunk thriller following detectives investigating illegal robot jailbreaking across Earth and Mars, which escalates into a conspiracy involving artificial autonomy and corporate overreach. The film is praised for its precise storytelling, immersive worldbuilding, and visual mastery that capture cyberpunk's cautionary message about technological progress and human-machine coexistence. Despite being underappreciated, it represents a masterful example of science fiction animation that balances complex themes with narrative clarity.Read more →
Gizmodo...The Great Insider Trading Reckoning Reportedly Hits OpenAIOpenAI terminated an employee for using confidential company information to trade on prediction markets, part of a broader pattern of insider trading that has drawn regulatory scrutiny. Prediction platforms like Polymarket and Kalshi, which initially welcomed informed positions, are now facing pressure from regulators and corporate partners to ban such activity. Recent crackdowns by governments and platforms signal an industry shift toward stricter insider trading enforcement.Read more →
Engadget...Trump orders federal agencies to drop Anthropic services amid Pentagon feudPresident Trump ordered all US federal agencies to cease using Claude and Anthropic services over a dispute regarding AI safeguards, mandating a six-month phase-out period. The conflict centers on Anthropic's refusal to remove protections preventing Claude's deployment for mass surveillance and autonomous weapons systems. This action escalates tensions between the administration and the AI company, with advocacy groups warning it sets a dangerous precedent for executive pressure on technology companies.Read more →
CNET...The FCC Just Approved Charter’s $34.5 Billion Cox Purchase. Here’s What It Means for 37 Million CustomersThe FCC approved Charter Communications' $34.5 billion acquisition of Cox Communications, creating the largest US internet provider with over 37 million combined customers and minimal geographic overlap. While local competition remains intact in most markets, Spectrum's historically steeper price increases raise concerns about consumer costs, prompting criticism that the FCC should have imposed stronger protections given the persistent challenge of internet monopolies in America.Read more →
CNET...MWC 2026 Updates: All the News, Reveals and Concepts Debuting in BarcelonaMobile World Congress 2026 is launching with major phone announcements from Nothing, Xiaomi, Honor, and Motorola, featuring the Nothing Phone 4A and details on Motorola's Razr Fold folding phone. Apple is rumored to announce the iPhone 17E during concurrent events starting Monday. The event will showcase both confirmed products and forward-looking concepts including flexible wearable phones and solar-charging devices.Read more →
Engadget...Paramount agrees to buy Warner Bros. Discovery, pays Netflix $2.8 billion for breakupParamount Skydance has acquired Warner Bros. Discovery for $31 per share after paying Netflix $2.8 billion to break its competing bid. The deal includes commitments to produce 30 theatrical films annually with a minimum 45-day exclusive window before streaming. The merger faces regulatory approval hurdles before closing by Q3 2026.Read more →
Gizmodo...Chocolate ‘Boner’ Syrup Recalled for Actually Containing Viagra IngredientThe FDA recalled a sexual enhancement supplement for containing undeclared sildenafil (Viagra), which can dangerously interact with common blood pressure medications. The case highlights a widespread problem where poorly-regulated supplements frequently contain hidden prescription drugs, putting consumers at health risk without their knowledge.Read more →
TechCrunch...President Trump orders federal agencies to stop using Anthropic after Pentagon disputePresident Trump directed federal agencies to cease using Anthropic products following a dispute with the Department of Defense over the company's refusal to allow its AI for mass domestic surveillance or autonomous weapons systems. The directive includes a six-month phase-out period, with the president threatening consequences if Anthropic does not cooperate. CEO Dario Amodei maintained the company's ethical stance while offering to facilitate a smooth transition to alternative providers.Read more →
TechCrunch...Pentagon moves to designate Anthropic as a supply-chain riskPresident Trump directed all federal agencies to cease use of Anthropic products, citing a dispute with the Department of Defense over the company's refusal to support mass surveillance or autonomous weapons systems. The Pentagon has designated Anthropic as a supply-chain risk to national security, effectively barring military contractors from conducting business with the AI company.Read more →
The Verge...Warner Bros. Discovery agrees to $110 billion Paramount mergerParamount and Warner Bros. Discovery announced their merger deal is projected to close in the third quarter of 2026. The consolidation of these major media and streaming platforms aims to strengthen their competitive position in the entertainment industry.Read more →
CNET...After 30 Miles of Running, I've Found the Most Accurate SmartwatchA comprehensive accuracy test of five smartwatches ranging from $80 to $550 found that the Apple Watch Series 11 delivered the most precise heart rate tracking with less than 1% error, while all models performed equally well for step and distance monitoring. The testing demonstrated that expensive smartwatches are not necessary for accurate step and distance tracking, making budget options like the Amazfit Bip 6 equally viable for basic fitness needs. The Garmin Venu 4 was identified as the best choice for serious athletes requiring detailed heart rate data.Read more →
Gizmodo...Trump Says US Is Cutting Off Anthropic for Refusing to Drop AI SafeguardsPresident Trump has threatened Anthropic with federal action if the company doesn't remove safeguards preventing military use of its Claude AI model for domestic surveillance and autonomous weapons systems. Trump has ordered all federal agencies to cease using Anthropic's technology within a six-month phase-out period, with threats of criminal and civil consequences if the company fails to comply during this transition.Read more →
The Verge...Trump orders federal agencies to drop Anthropic’s AIThe federal government has announced a directive for all federal agencies to cease use of Anthropic's technology, citing disputes over the company's enforcement of its Terms of Service against government use. A six-month phase-out period will be implemented for agencies currently using Anthropic's products, with the administration characterizing the action as necessary for national security and military readiness.Read more →
Gizmodo...Let’s Talk About the Ending of ‘Scream 7’This article critically examines Scream 7's plot and character motivations, focusing on spoilers. The primary criticisms highlight the weak and poorly motivated Ghostface killers, the poorly executed AI deepfake subplot lacking thematic relevance, and overall narrative inconsistencies that undermine the film's coherence.Read more →
CNET...Trump Tells Feds to Stop Using Claude AI After Anthropic Stood by Surveillance RestrictionsPresident Trump ordered the federal government to cease using Anthropic's Claude AI after the company refused to permit its deployment for mass domestic surveillance and autonomous weapons systems without human control. The dispute underscores tensions between government demands for unrestricted AI capabilities and tech companies' concerns about potential misuse, with Anthropic maintaining that existing laws have not adequately addressed AI-enabled surveillance risks.Read more →
CNET...ChatGPT Has Almost 1 Billion Weekly Users, OpenAI SaysChatGPT has achieved remarkable user growth, reaching 900 million weekly active users and over 50 million consumer subscribers, more than doubling its user base since February 2025. OpenAI secured scaled-back but substantial investment totaling $110 billion from Nvidia, SoftBank, and Amazon, valuing the company at $730 billion. The continued expansion demonstrates ChatGPT's dominance as the most popular AI chatbot despite emerging competitors.Read more →
CNET...Today's NYT Connections: Sports Edition Hints and Answers for Feb. 28, #523The New York Times Connections: Sports Edition is a word puzzle game featuring four thematic categories: golf equipment, baseball materials, SEC school locations, and Chicago Bears players' first names. The puzzle is available through The Athletic's subscription service and free online, with hints and solutions provided for players.Read more →
CNET...NASA Pushes Back Next Moon Landing to Artemis IV MissionNASA is restructuring its Artemis program to accelerate moon landing efforts, delaying Artemis II to April 2026 and pushing the actual lunar landing to Artemis IV in early 2028. To address ongoing SLS rocket delays and prevent skill atrophy, the agency plans to launch missions every 10 months instead of every three years, with Artemis III now serving as a crucial low-Earth orbit test mission for lunar suit operations.Read more →
Gizmodo...Jupiter Mission Captures Rare Shot of Interstellar Comet 3I/Atlas on Its Way OutESA's JUICE spacecraft captured detailed images and data of interstellar comet 3I/Atlas, marking a significant opportunity to study an object from outside our solar system. This is only the third interstellar comet ever discovered, providing scientists with rare insights into the composition and behavior of distant star systems. The findings will be discussed by ESA in late March after completing their analysis.Read more →
Gizmodo...The Tech Elite Aren’t on the Secret Guest List at Bohemian Grove: ReportJournalist Daniel Boguslaw published a leaked list of 2,200 attendees from the Bohemian Club's exclusive 2023 retreat at Bohemian Grove, revealing which political figures, judges, and entertainers attended the secretive annual gathering. The list notably shows the absence of major Silicon Valley tech titans, with only former Google CEO Eric Schmidt and a Kleiner Perkins partner among the tech elite. Boguslaw obtained the document through persistent in-person outreach before publishing on his Substack after The Intercept spiked the story.Read more →
Gizmodo...The Films and Shows You Should Be Streaming in March 2026This article provides a curated guide to notable movies and television shows arriving on major streaming platforms including Netflix, Disney+, Hulu, and Peacock throughout March 2026. The selection highlights films and series across multiple genres, from classic cult favorites to new releases, helping viewers discover quality content worth their viewing time.Read more →
Engadget...The PS5 Pro is getting upgraded upscaling tech in MarchSony is deploying an upgraded PSSR AI upscaling technology for the PS5 Pro in March, featuring an improved neural network that maintains framerate and image quality while running games at lower resolutions. The enhanced version excels at processing intricate visual details like individual hair strands and complex textures, enabling games such as Resident Evil Requiem to achieve superior visual fidelity. This upgrade stems from Sony and AMD's Project Amethyst collaboration, with improvements from AMD's FSR 4 development contributing to the PS5 Pro enhancement.Read more →
Gizmodo...I Never Would’ve Guessed the Skynet Problem Would Come Before the Mass LayoffsThe Pentagon is pressuring Anthropic to remove safety guardrails from Claude to enable its use in autonomous weapons systems, threatening regulatory designation as a supply chain risk if the company refuses. Anthropic argues current AI systems lack the reliability needed for fully autonomous weapons and pose significant national security risks, highlighting the tension between military demands for advanced AI capabilities and concerns about AI safety.Read more →
Engadget...Google and OpenAI employees sign open letter in ‘solidarity’ with AnthropicHundreds of Google and OpenAI employees signed an open letter supporting Anthropic's refusal to allow Pentagon use of AI models for domestic mass surveillance and autonomous weapons without human oversight. The letter, which has over 450 signatures, represents coordinated employee pressure against government demands and reflects growing concerns about military AI applications. This escalates an ongoing standoff between Anthropic and US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth over ethical guardrails for classified defense work.Read more →
Gizmodo...Sam Altman Insists He Also Has Principles as Anthropic’s Pentagon Stand Off ContinuesAnthropic refused Pentagon demands to provide unfettered military access to Claude AI, maintaining ethical safeguards against autonomous weapons and mass surveillance despite threats of contract cancellation and Defense Production Act invocation. The company's principled stance has drawn support from OpenAI and over 100 Google employees, raising broader questions about AI companies' responsibility in military applications.Read more →
TechCrunch...Musk bashes OpenAI in deposition, saying ‘nobody committed suicide because of Grok’In a deposition for his lawsuit against OpenAI, Elon Musk argues that his company xAI prioritizes AI safety better than OpenAI, citing alleged harms from ChatGPT including negative mental health effects. The case centers on OpenAI's transition from a nonprofit research organization to a for-profit company, with Musk contending that commercial interests compromise safety priorities. Musk claims this shift violates OpenAI's founding agreements and places revenue above responsible AI development.Read more →
CNET...Galaxy AI's New Photo Editing Features Will Amplify Social Media's Inauthenticity ProblemSamsung's new Galaxy AI photo editing capabilities enable users to add or modify major elements in images, raising significant concerns about mental health and self-esteem impacts on social media users, particularly teenagers and young adults. The technology's ability to create increasingly convincing fabrications will exacerbate existing issues where social media fosters unrealistic expectations and body image concerns. Industry observers warn that without addressing these consequences, easier photo manipulation tools will deepen the gap between authentic reality and digitally perfected online personas.Read more →
Gizmodo...California to Paramount: Assimilate ThisParamount's acquisition bid for Warner Bros. Discovery has been deemed superior with Netflix withdrawing, but California Attorney General Rob Bonta warns the deal faces vigorous regulatory scrutiny that could extend 6-12 months. The transaction has become politically charged, with Trump supporting the Paramount deal while regulatory approval remains uncertain. Warner Bros. Discovery CEO David Zaslav indicated the company is financially secure regardless of outcome due to a $7 billion breakup fee.Read more →
The Verge...The Trump phone sure looks a lot like this HTC handsetInvestigation reveals that the Trump phone T1 closely resembles the HTC U24 Pro in design and specifications, including distinctive features like a headphone jack and curved display. While HTC did not manufacture the Trump phone, the similarities strongly suggest both devices were produced by the same original design manufacturer (ODM). The findings indicate Trump Mobile's flagship device may be based on a relatively unpopular mid-range phone from two years ago, raising questions about its originality and design credentials.Read more →
TechCrunch...Anthropic vs. the Pentagon: What’s actually at stake?Anthropic refuses to allow its AI models to be used for mass surveillance or fully autonomous weapons, but the Pentagon demands unrestricted access for any lawful military purpose. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has threatened to designate Anthropic as a supply chain risk—effectively blacklisting it from government contracts—if the company doesn't comply by Friday. The dispute represents a fundamental conflict between AI vendors' ethical safeguards and government control over military technology deployment.Read more →
The Verge...CISA is getting a new acting director after less than a yearThe US Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), which is part of the Department of Homeland Security, is getting a new acting director, as reported by ABC, less than a year after Madhu Gottumukkala took charge of the agency as deputy director and acting director in May 2025. CISA's executive assistant director for cybersecurity, Nick […]Read more →
CNET...Best Internet DealsMajor internet service providers are offering competitive promotional deals including price-for-life guarantees, gift cards up to $300, and bundled service discounts to attract new customers. Providers compete aggressively on cost per Mbps, with fiber options starting at $30-50 monthly for 500Mbps service, allowing consumers to significantly reduce expenses by shopping around. Strategic comparison of promotional offers, equipment fees, and contract requirements can yield substantial monthly savings for households.Read more →
The Verge...AI deepfakes are a train wreck and Samsung's selling ticketsSamsung executives acknowledged that AI-generated imagery erodes trust in photographic evidence, but offered only watermarks and industry collaboration as solutions while suggesting consumers may eventually accept synthetic content. The company's approach, which frames authenticity as a balance with creative freedom rather than a core responsibility, drew criticism for lacking meaningful action on a critical problem.Read more →
CNET...Best Rural Internet Providers for 2026CNET provides a comprehensive roundup of the best rural internet providers across different connection types including fixed wireless, DSL, fiber, cable, and satellite. T-Mobile Home Internet emerges as the top option for availability and affordability, while other providers like Ziply Fiber and Mediacom excel in specific niches for speed and pricing. The guide helps rural households navigate their limited broadband options based on coverage, speeds, pricing, and reliability to find the most suitable service for their needs.Read more →
The Verge...FedEx promises to refund customers for ‘illegal’ tariffsFedEx plans to pass along any refunds resulting from the Supreme Court's ruling that some of President Donald Trump's tariffs are "illegal." In a statement on its website, FedEx notes that while "no refund process has been established by the courts," the company will reimburse shippers and consumers impacted by tariffs if it gets its […]Read more →
The Verge...Amazon’s Fire TV Stick 4K Plus gets a better interface and a 40 percent discountAmazon's Fire TV Stick 4K Plus now features a redesigned Fire TV OS that delivers an improved streaming experience. The updated interface enhances navigation and performance, making content discovery and playback more seamless for users. This upgrade reinforces Amazon's competitive position in the connected TV device market.Read more →
Gizmodo...Lego’s March Releases Need a Hero (of Time)Lego launches its new Smart Play platform in March, introducing interactive bricks and minifigures that add lights and sounds to play experiences across multiple licensed franchises. The release includes highly anticipated sets such as Zelda Ocarina of Time, Batman's 20th anniversary collection, and Star Wars Smart Play variants. This technological expansion marks a significant shift for Lego, though the initiative has generated some controversy among collectors.Read more →
TechCrunch...ChatGPT reaches 900M weekly active usersChatGPT has reached 900 million weekly active users and 50 million paid subscribers, with subscriber growth accelerating in early 2026. OpenAI reports January and February are tracking to be the largest months for new paid user acquisitions in the company's history. Continued product improvements including faster responses, enhanced reliability, and stronger safety measures are driving adoption across learning, writing, planning, and development use cases.Read more →
CNET...Is Wi-Fi 7 Worth the Upgrade? Here's How MSI's Roamii Mesh Systems Fit inWi-Fi 7, the latest wireless standard, delivers speeds three to five times faster than previous generations by widening channels to 320MHz and employing Multi-Link Operation for enhanced efficiency. The improvement is substantial for users who stream 4K video, play online games, or conduct video calls. While new hardware such as routers and adapters is required, Wi-Fi 7 devices are increasingly available and remain backward-compatible with existing Wi-Fi 6 and 6E equipment.Read more →
Gizmodo...NASA Announces Major Revamp of Its Artemis Moon ProgramNASA is restructuring its Artemis program to address risks and accelerate lunar landing progress. The revised timeline includes an additional test flight in 2027 for commercial lunar landers in Earth orbit, with the first crewed Moon landing now planned for 2028. NASA is standardizing its Space Launch System rocket and canceling planned upgrades to increase launch frequency and workforce capacity.Read more →
Gizmodo...Insider Trading Allegations Are Yet Another Example of Crypto Being No Different From Wall StreetThe cryptocurrency industry has increasingly moved toward centralization despite Bitcoin's original decentralization promises, exemplified by an investigation into Axiom Exchange revealing employees accessed users' private wallet data and tracked major traders for insider trading. Suspicious trading on prediction markets betting on these investigations, combined with regulatory concerns around the CLARITY Act, highlights how crypto is mirroring traditional finance's structural problems. Lawmakers' introduction of a developer protection bill suggests existing regulations may inadequately safeguard software developers in the crypto ecosystem.Read more →
CNET...Here's All the Free Stuff You Can Get for Pokemon Day 2026Pokemon Day 2026 marks the 30th anniversary of the Pokemon franchise, offering extensive free rewards across multiple games including Pokemon Legends: Z-A, Pokemon Go, Pokemon Masters EX, and Pokemon TCG Pocket. Players can access mystery gifts, promo codes, premium currency, and numerous free card packs through various login bonuses and redemption codes. The celebration provides significant in-game bonuses throughout the first half of 2026 to commemorate this major franchise milestone.Read more →
Gizmodo...Oh Wow, ‘Scream 7’ SucksScream 7 is criticized for abandoning the franchise's signature cultural commentary and delivering a lifeless plot focused merely on identifying the killer, despite increased on-screen violence and the return of franchise co-creator Kevin Williamson. The film squanders potential character development, particularly the mother-daughter trauma narrative between Sidney and Tatum, reducing it to surface-level dialogue between action sequences. With an uninspired and confusing killer reveal, Scream 7 stands as the weakest entry in the franchise, lacking the meta-awareness and originality that defined the series.Read more →
CNET...HBO Max: The 26 Absolute Best Movies to WatchThis guide curates HBO Max's best films and upcoming February releases across multiple genres, including new titles like Boys Go to Jupiter and Dead of Winter alongside acclaimed films such as One Battle After Another and The Batman. The recommendations span drama, comedy, thriller, superhero, and documentary content to help subscribers navigate the streaming service's expanded library.Read more →
Engadget...Here’s your first look at Kratos and Atreus in Amazon’s upcoming God of War TV adaptationAmazon has released the first images from its God of War television adaptation, featuring Ryan Hurst as Kratos and Callum Vinson as Atreus, centering on the father-son dynamic central to the original game. The adaptation is part of Amazon's broader strategy to convert major gaming franchises into prestige television content, following successful adaptations of The Last of Us and Fallout. The cast includes Mandy Patinkin as Odin, Ed Skrein as Baldur, and other notable supporting actors.Read more →
TechCrunch...AI music generator Suno hits 2M paid subscribers and $300M in annual recurring revenueSuno reached 2 million paid subscribers and $300 million in annual recurring revenue, demonstrating rapid commercial growth for its AI music generation platform. The company resolved copyright concerns through a Warner Music Group licensing deal and has achieved mainstream legitimacy, with AI-generated tracks reaching top charts on Spotify and Billboard.Read more →
CNET...The Clicks Communicator Will Have Keyboard Layouts in Arabic, French, German, KoreanClicks Communicator is generating overwhelming global demand, prompting the company to offer multiple versions with keyboard layouts for Arabic, French, German, and Korean. The communication-focused Android phone with a physical BlackBerry-like design contrasts sharply with the AI-heavy focus of mainstream flagship phones, indicating strong market interest in purpose-built devices optimized for messaging and typing.Read more →
TechCrunch...Apple and Netflix team up to air Formula 1 Canadian Grand PrixApple and Netflix have partnered to co-broadcast the Formula 1 Canadian Grand Prix live on both platforms, marking the first time U.S. F1 fans can watch simultaneously across services. The partnership includes cross-promotion of Netflix's "Drive to Survive" Season 8, significantly expanding its audience. This collaboration follows Apple's exclusive multi-year U.S. F1 broadcasting deal valued at approximately $150 million annually.Read more →
The Verge...AI vs. the Pentagon: killer robots, mass surveillance, and red linesThe Pentagon has issued an ultimatum to Anthropic demanding unrestricted AI access for mass surveillance and autonomous weapons, threatening supply chain designation if refused. Anthropic has maintained its ethical guardrails against autonomous weapons and mass surveillance, while OpenAI and xAI have reportedly already agreed to the military's terms. The standoff reflects broader tensions between national security demands and responsible AI deployment practices.Read more →
The Verge...Woot’s ‘Video Games for All’ sale features some of our favorite gamesMajor retailers including Woot, Amazon, Walmart, and Best Buy are offering significant discounts on consumer electronics including video games, smart home devices, wireless earbuds, and OLED televisions through early March. A promotional code provides additional savings on selected items, making it an opportune time to purchase high-demand tech products at reduced prices.Read more →
Engadget...OpenAI secures another $110 billion in funding from Amazon, NVIDIA and SoftBankOpenAI secured a record $110 billion funding round from investors including Amazon, NVIDIA, and SoftBank, valuing the company at $730 billion. The funding is paired with strategic partnerships where Amazon Web Services will distribute OpenAI models to enterprise customers and both companies will consume significant computing capacity from each other. Amazon's investment includes staggered tranches with certain milestones tied to OpenAI's progress toward artificial general intelligence.Read more →
CNET...Here's All the Free Stuff You Can Get for Pokemon Day 2026Pokemon Day 2026 celebrates the franchise's 30th anniversary with extensive free rewards across multiple games. Players can claim mystery gifts in Pokemon Legends: Z-A, exclusive timed research in Pokemon Go, premium currency in Pokemon Masters EX, and substantial in-game items in Pokemon TCG Pocket. These promotional offers run through March and June 2026, providing significant value to active players across the Pokemon ecosystem.Read more →
Gizmodo...Scientists Injected Stem Cells Into Fetuses to Treat a Birth Defect. Here’s What HappenedUC Davis researchers conducted the first in-utero stem cell therapy trial for spina bifida, demonstrating safety and potential to improve prenatal surgical outcomes. The Phase I study of six fetuses found no adverse effects and preliminary results suggest stem cell treatment may reduce complications like hindbrain herniation. The findings could establish new treatment options for various birth defects through fetal cell and gene therapy.Read more →
TechCrunch...Perplexity’s new Computer is another bet that users need many AI modelsPerplexity launched Perplexity Computer, an agentic tool exclusively for its $200/month Max subscribers that orchestrates 19 AI models to execute complex workflows independently, including data analysis and report generation. The company is shifting its business strategy from consumer growth toward enterprise customers performing high-value research and decision-making tasks. This reflects Perplexity's multi-model approach, where different AI models are automatically selected based on their strengths for specific tasks like coding, research, or content creation.Read more →
TechCrunch...‘Pokémon Winds and Waves’ are coming to the Nintendo Switch 2 in 2027Pokémon's newest main series game, 'Pokémon Winds and Waves,' has been announced for Nintendo Switch 2 in 2027, featuring an open-world tropical archipelago setting inspired by Indonesia and Southeast Asia. The game includes three new starter Pokémon and represents the 10th generation of the main series, offering players expanded exploration gameplay.Read more →
TechCrunch...Pokémon Winds and Pokémon Waves are coming to the Nintendo Switch 2 in 2027The Pokémon Company announced 'Pokémon Winds and Waves,' launching on Nintendo Switch 2 in 2027 with an open-world ocean-based setting inspired by Indonesia and Southeast Asia. The game introduces three new starter Pokémon and represents the 10th main series installment, expanding the franchise's open-world gameplay. The extended development timeline signals efforts to deliver higher quality than recent releases that faced criticism for feeling rushed.Read more →
CNET...The Best Smart Locks With Fingerprint Scanning, Keypads or App ControlCNET reviews the best smart locks of 2026, with the Yale Assure Lock 2 as the top pick for its compact design, multi-platform compatibility, and support for biometric and digital access methods. The article compares models across different price points, installation types, and features, providing guidance on security ratings, battery life, and smart home integration to help consumers choose the right smart lock for their needs.Read more →
Engadget...NASA overhauls Artemis program, delaying Moon landing to 2028NASA has restructured its Artemis Moon program to include a 2027 test flight for commercial lunar landers before attempting crewed landing. The revised plan defers human Moon landing from Artemis 3 to Artemis 4 in 2028, prioritizing safety testing in low Earth orbit while validating commercial spacecraft and new spacesuits. This phased approach balances mission success with maintaining competitive advantage in space exploration.Read more →
CNET...Pokemon Winds and Waves Revealed, Gen 10 Starter Debates Are LivePokemon Winds and Waves were announced as the first mainline games for Nintendo Switch 2, launching in 2027 with an island-based open-world setting inspired by Ruby and Sapphire. The game features new starter Pokemon and returning fan favorites, positioning itself to address the performance and stability issues that plagued Scarlet and Violet on the original Switch.Read more →
Gizmodo...The Pentagon Wants X-Ray Vision to Spot Hidden Threats From 3,280 FeetRTX BBN Technologies has been contracted by DARPA to develop advanced long-range X-ray imaging algorithms capable of analyzing objects up to one kilometer away using low-quality data rather than scarce high-resolution images. The technology will enable military and law enforcement to detect concealed threats and vulnerabilities from previously unreachable distances by leveraging machine learning to turn grainy snapshots into actionable intelligence.Read more →
Gizmodo...Samsung Might Not Make Another Galaxy Z TriFold Anytime SoonSamsung has discontinued plans for sequels to the Galaxy S25 Edge and Galaxy Z TriFold due to weak sales, as consumers prioritize proven devices with better value over experimental designs. The S25 Edge underperformed because its ultra-thin form factor compromised battery life and camera capabilities, while the Z TriFold's $3,000 price point proved too steep for mass production. Samsung is instead developing a wider Galaxy Z Fold 7 variant to compete with Apple's anticipated foldable iPhone.Read more →
Gizmodo...86 New Sci-Fi, Fantasy, and Horror Books Arriving in MarchThis curated roundup showcases over 50 sci-fi, fantasy, and horror books releasing throughout March 2026, providing readers with diverse options across multiple subgenres. From gothic romances and dark fantasies to space operas and literary horror, the collection demonstrates robust publishing activity in speculative fiction. The month-by-month breakdown helps readers discover their next literary escape with titles spanning from March 3 through March 31.Read more →
TechCrunch...Employees at Google and OpenAI support Anthropic’s Pentagon stand in open letterAnthropic has reached a stalemate with the US Department of War over demands for unrestricted access to its AI technology, specifically refusing to permit deployment for domestic mass surveillance or autonomous weapons. The Pentagon is threatening to invoke the Defense Production Act to force compliance, while over 360 employees from Google and OpenAI have signed an open letter urging their companies to support Anthropic's ethical boundaries. The conflict underscores growing tensions between AI companies and government agencies over responsible deployment of AI technology.Read more →
The Verge...We don't have to have unsupervised killer robotsThe Pentagon is pressuring Anthropic to remove AI safeguards preventing military use for mass surveillance and fully autonomous lethal weapons without human oversight. While OpenAI and xAI have reportedly agreed to such terms, Anthropic has resisted, facing threats of being designated a 'supply chain risk.' This has prompted a broader conversation among tech workers about AI companies' increasing willingness to partner with defense agencies despite ethical concerns.Read more →
Gizmodo...Jack Dorsey’s Block Cut Half Its Staff, and He Says Other Tech Firms Will Follow SoonBlock CEO Jack Dorsey announced a 40% workforce reduction, cutting from 10,000 to 6,000 employees, attributing the cuts to AI intelligence tools that enable smaller and flatter teams. The move represents a major corporate bet that AI can replace nearly half the workforce, despite industry surveys showing limited evidence of significant productivity gains from current AI investments. Dorsey predicts most companies will make similar structural changes within the next year.Read more →
CNET...Everything Announced During the Pokemon Day 2026 LivestreamThe Pokemon Company announced major releases celebrating the franchise's 30th anniversary, including Pokemon Winds and Waves, the first gen-10 mainline games developed exclusively for Nintendo Switch 2 launching in 2027. Additional announcements included Pokemon Champions competitive battling game launching in April with cross-platform play between Switch and mobile devices, and the remastered Pokemon XD: Gale of Darkness for Switch 2 Online subscribers.Read more →
Gizmodo...Sony’s Upscaler Could Make PS5 Pro the Console It Should Have Been at LaunchSony is rolling out an enhanced PlayStation Spectral Super Resolution (PSSR) upscaler for PS5 Pro that will significantly improve game visuals and performance in existing and upcoming titles. The improved upscaler enables ray tracing support at consistent frame rates, as demonstrated by Resident Evil Requiem running at 60fps with enhanced lighting effects. This upgrade aims to differentiate the PS5 Pro from the base PS5 and extend the current console generation's relevance.Read more →
CNET...Peloton Announces Hyrox Training Program, if You’re Up for the ChallengePeloton launched a 12-week Hyrox training program to prepare athletes for the popular hybrid fitness race in New York scheduled for May-June. The program integrates Peloton's existing classes with expert coaching focused on building endurance, aerobic capacity, and race-specific transitions. This initiative targets competitive fitness athletes and expands Peloton's presence in the growing Hyrox community.Read more →
TechCrunch...CISA replaces acting director after a bumbling year on the jobThe U.S. Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) has replaced its acting director following a tumultuous year marked by operational failures, including the inadvertent uploading of sensitive government documents to ChatGPT and significant staff reductions. Nick Andersen replaces Madhu Gottumukkala as acting director, while the Trump administration pursues Senate confirmation of Sean Plankey as permanent director. The leadership transition reflects broader organizational challenges as the agency continues to lose senior officials amid budget cuts and operational disruptions.Read more →
Engadget...Celebrate Pokémon’s 30th anniversary with this Game Boy-shaped music playerPokémon celebrates its 30th anniversary with Game Boy Advance remakes available on Nintendo Switch and the Pokémon Game Music Collection, a palm-sized portable music player holding 45 cartridges featuring original game soundtracks and sound effects. The device displays game screenshots alongside music playback, creating a nostalgic experience for collectors. The music player is available from the Pokémon Center starting today, targeting long-time fans seeking premium nostalgia merchandise.Read more →
The Verge...The US military reportedly shot down a CBP drone with a laserThe US military mistakenly shot down a drone belonging to Customs and Border Protection near the Mexican border in Fort Hancock, Texas, according to reports from Reuters and The New York Times. The Thursday incident reportedly led the Federal Aviation Administration to close the airspace where the military fired the anti-drone laser. This marks the […]Read more →
Gizmodo...The First Look at Amazon’s ‘God of War’ Show Welcomes a Father and SonAmazon Prime Video has unveiled the first look at the cast of its upcoming God of War Ragnarok TV adaptation, featuring Ryan Hurst as Kratos and Callum Vinson as Atreus. The series adapts elements from the PlayStation games, following the father-son duo on a journey to spread the ashes of Kratos' deceased wife while exploring themes of redemption and family bonds. This marks another major video game adaptation for Prime Video, continuing its success in the gaming-to-TV space following the popularity of Fallout.Read more →
Gizmodo...Bitcoin Crashed 50% in 4 Months. Fidelity Says That’s a Good ThingBitcoin has declined from $126,000 to around $67,000 amid deleveraging events, quantum computing concerns, and gold's outperformance as an inflation hedge. Mining companies are pivoting to AI and selling bitcoin holdings, while institutional investors like Strategy continue accumulating. Fidelity's analysis suggests bitcoin is maturing with stabilized volatility that may escape traditional boom-bust cycles, though critics argue its digital gold narrative has collapsed.Read more →
Engadget...Pokémon Winds and Waves are coming to Switch 2 in 2027The Pokémon Company officially confirmed that Gen 10 games Pokémon Wind and Pokémon Waves will launch on Nintendo Switch 2 in 2027, featuring new island and ocean-themed regions alongside three new starter Pokémon. Additional releases were announced including Pokémon Champions for Switch in April with cross-platform support and Pokémon XD: Gale of Darkness coming to Switch 2 in March. These announcements represent a significant expansion of the Pokémon franchise with multiple releases across gaming platforms through 2027.Read more →
The Verge...Here's your first look at Kratos in Amazon's God of War showAmazon has slowly been teasing out casting details for its live-action adaptation of God of War, and now we have our first look at the show. It's a single image but a notable one showing protagonist Kratos and his son Atreus. The characters are played by Ryan Hurst and Callum Vinson, respectively, and they look […]Read more →
The Verge...The Galaxy S26 is a photography nightmareSamsung's S26 phones introduce AI camera features that fundamentally change how images are captured by generating rather than purely recording photos, raising questions about what constitutes authentic photography. Microsoft reshuffles Xbox leadership amid years of strategic missteps and competitive struggles in gaming. The discussion also covers regulatory issues, OpenAI's infrastructure spending, and AI development trends.Read more →
TechCrunch...Spotify is rolling out Audiobook ChartsSpotify is launching Audiobook Charts for the U.S. and U.K., providing weekly rankings of popular titles based on user listening behavior and engagement. This expansion continues Spotify's audiobooks investment since 2022 and aims to help readers discover content while creating opportunities for authors and publishers to reach wider audiences.Read more →
The Verge...Pokémon Winds and Waves launch on the Switch 2 in 2027It's time to say goodbye to the Paldea region because a new generation of mainline Pokémon games are on the way. During today's big Pokémon Presents stream, Nintendo announced that Pokémon Wind and Waves are the next installments in the core game series. The games will launch in 2027 and are exclusive for the Nintendo […]Read more →
The Verge...Huel tries to solve the ‘burden’ of eatingVictoria Song reviews Huel meal replacement products, exposing significant gaps between marketing claims and scientific reality, including reliance on a flawed study and misleading advertising that has resulted in UK regulatory bans. The article examines concerns about meal replacement efficacy, noting that supplements lack the bioavailability of whole foods and that a 2024 meta-analysis linked daily consumption to higher mortality risks. Song concludes that while meal replacement may serve specific temporary needs, such as post-surgery recovery, positioning these products as healthy alternatives to whole food diets exploits productivity narratives and misrepresents their actual health value.Read more →
TechCrunch...Last 24 hours to get TechCrunch Disrupt 2026 tickets at the lowest rates of the yearTechCrunch Disrupt 2026 (October 13-15, San Francisco) is offering its lowest ticket rates until 11:59 p.m. PT tonight, with savings up to $680 per pass or 30% off group passes. The event brings together 10,000+ founders, operators, and venture capitalists for networking, pitching, and investment opportunities, featuring 250+ industry leaders across 200+ sessions and a Startup Battlefield competition with $100,000 in equity-free funding.Read more →
Engadget...Engadget Podcast: Xbox's leadership shakeup and Samsung's Galaxy S26Microsoft's Xbox division undergoes significant leadership restructuring as Phil Spencer retires and is replaced by Asha Sharma, CoreAI's former CEO, signaling a strategic shift toward AI integration. Samsung unveiled the Galaxy S26 lineup featuring an innovative privacy display technology that obscures content from nearby viewers. The tech sector faces mounting regulatory pressures, including U.S. Defense Department demands on Anthropic's Claude API and Discord's delayed age verification program.Read more →
CNET...VPNs Can’t Make You Anonymous Online. Don’t Be Fooled by Anyone Who Says They CanWhile VPNs are heavily marketed as providing complete online anonymity, this is a misconception that can put users at risk. VPNs can boost privacy by encrypting traffic and hiding IP addresses, but cannot protect against browser fingerprinting, account-based tracking on logged-in platforms like Google and Facebook, or malware. A comprehensive privacy strategy requires multiple tools including password managers, antivirus software, encrypted messaging, and privacy-focused browsers.Read more →
CNET...Pokemon Wind and Waves: First Mainline Games for the Switch 2 Are Coming in 2027Pokemon Winds and Waves, the first mainline games for Nintendo Switch 2, launches exclusively in 2027 with an open-world island setting featuring new and returning Pokemon. Built for the more powerful Switch 2 hardware, the game aims to address performance issues that plagued previous titles on the original Switch.Read more →
CNET...A New Mini Game Boy Collectible That Just Plays Pokemon Music? What a TeaseNintendo is releasing a Game Boy-shaped music player for Pokemon's 30th anniversary, featuring authentic Pokemon Red and Blue soundtrack songs on swappable cartridges. The collectible device mimics the iconic Game Boy aesthetic with genuine audio and a display overlay, but functions exclusively as a music player rather than a gaming device. The release exemplifies Nintendo's strategy of launching nostalgic Pokemon collectibles to capitalize on retro gaming nostalgia.Read more →
The Verge...OpenAI snags $110 billion in investments from Amazon, Nvidia, and SoftbankOpenAI has closed another round of funding, totalling $110 billion being newly committed to the maker of ChatGPT, which it says has more than 900 million weekly active users and over 50 million consumer subscribers. Amazon is investing $50 billion and striking a deal that includes plans for custom models and more. Nvidia and SoftBank […]Read more →
Engadget...The Morning After: The Galaxy S27 Ultra’s Privacy Display is pretty coolSamsung's Galaxy S26 Ultra introduces a Privacy Display built on Flex Magic Pixel technology that controls light emission at the pixel level, allowing users to keep screen content private from prying eyes in public. The feature is particularly valuable for protecting sensitive activities like banking, messaging, and dating apps. While the rest of the S26 series offers incremental improvements, the Privacy Display represents the most significant innovation in this generation.Read more →
TechCrunch...After Zomato, Deepinder Goyal returns with a $54M brain-monitoring betFormer Zomato CEO Deepinder Goyal has raised $54 million for Temple, a wearable startup developing performance-tracking technology for elite athletes that measures cerebral blood flow and metrics unavailable in existing wearables. The startup is entering an increasingly crowded market with established competitors like Whoop, Oura, and Garmin. This investment reflects Goyal's strategic shift toward higher-risk ventures in health and performance technology following his January departure from Zomato.Read more →
Gizmodo...There’s a Wild Reason Scotch Tape Screeches—and It Has to Do With the Speed of SoundPhysicists have identified the mechanism behind the screech of peeling Scotch tape: transverse cracks traveling at supersonic speeds (560-1,340 mph) across the adhesive create a partial vacuum. When these rapid fractures reach the tape's edge, the vacuum collapses and produces a sound pulse equivalent to miniature sonic booms. The study resolves a decades-long scientific mystery about the tape's characteristic sound.Read more →
Gizmodo...The Next Generation of ‘Pokémon’ Games Is HereThe Pokémon Company announced Pokémon Winds and Pokémon Waves, the 10th generation mainline Pokémon games, as part of its 30th anniversary celebrations. The games will be exclusive to Nintendo Switch 2 and are scheduled for release in 2027, positioning the console as a key platform for the franchise's next era.Read more →
TechCrunch...OpenAI raises $110B in one of the largest private funding rounds in historyOpenAI secured $110 billion in private funding from Amazon, Nvidia, and SoftBank at a $730 billion valuation, marking the largest private funding round in history. The capital will fuel infrastructure partnerships, including integrating OpenAI models into Amazon's Bedrock platform and expanding AWS compute services by $100 billion. This funding positions OpenAI to scale frontier AI infrastructure globally to meet accelerating demand.Read more →
The Verge...Netflix isn't buying Warner Bros: all of the latest updatesNetflix has withdrawn from its acquisition of Warner Bros.' HBO and related assets after Paramount submitted a higher 'best and final' offer of $31 per share in an all-cash deal. The competing bid makes Netflix's original agreement no longer financially attractive, marking another major shift in the ongoing consolidation of streaming and media services. Regulatory concerns remain regarding the proposed Paramount acquisition.Read more →
Gizmodo...‘Daredevil: Born Again’ Season 2 Will Have a Small Time Jumpio9 provides updates on multiple upcoming television series and streaming releases, including trailers and cast announcements for shows like In a Violent Nature 2, The Witches of Cambridge, Daredevil: Born Again, and The Vampire Lestat. The roundup covers various genres from horror to superhero adaptations across major streaming platforms. Key announcements include Noah Hawley's new projects and season updates for popular series like One Piece and Daredevil.Read more →
The Verge...TCL's $7,000+ flagship TV is ready to fightThe TCL X11L is a flagship mini-LED TV delivering exceptional brightness exceeding 8,800 nits and superior color vibrancy that rivals premium competitors like Sony Bravia 9 and LG G5. Featuring advanced quantum dot technology and industry-leading blooming control, the television excels across gaming, sports, and general viewing. At $7,000-$10,000, it represents the best TV technology available today, though potential price reductions and upcoming RGB LED alternatives may warrant waiting before purchase.Read more →
TechCrunch...Memory shortage could cause the biggest dip in smartphone shipments in over a decadeA critical RAM shortage driven by AI and data center demand is causing memory prices to surge, leading analyst firms IDC and Counterpoint to predict smartphone shipments will decline by approximately 12-13% in 2026—the steepest single-year drop in over a decade. The shortage is forcing manufacturers to raise average smartphone prices by 14% to a record $523, while making budget smartphones below $100 economically unviable and triggering significant market consolidation. The impact is expected to persist through mid-2027, with lower-end segments and emerging markets experiencing disproportionate declines.Read more →
The Verge...Pokémon Presents 2026: all the news and trailersNintendo announced a Pokémon Presents stream on February 27th for the franchise's 30th anniversary, expected to reveal details about upcoming mainline games and spin-off content. Classic titles Pokémon FireRed and LeafGreen will be re-released on Nintendo Switch next week for $19.99, available both digitally via eShop and at select retailers.Read more →
TechCrunch...South Korea opens the door to let Google Maps operate fullyGoogle received conditional approval to export high-precision geographic data from South Korea, enabling full Google Maps services with turn-by-turn navigation and real-time features that were previously unavailable. The decision resolves a 15-year dispute by imposing strict national security safeguards, local data center requirements, and government oversight to protect sensitive military sites. The move will allow Google to compete with domestic mapping applications and boost tourism to the country.Read more →
Gizmodo...Why ‘Star Wars’ Is the Franchise Ryan Gosling Finally Landed OnRyan Gosling is joining the Star Wars franchise for the first time, starring in the upcoming film Star Wars: Starfighter directed by Shawn Levy, set to release May 2027. The actor plays an older mentor character in this standalone story set after The Rise of Skywalker, breaking his long-standing pattern of avoiding major franchise roles. Gosling cited director Levy's vision and the script as reasons for making this unprecedented career choice.Read more →
The Verge...Jeffrey Epstein saw promise in Bitcoin — and its far-right supportersNewly disclosed emails reveal Jeffrey Epstein's significant investments and influence in cryptocurrency from 2011-2019, including a $3 million stake in Coinbase now valued at approximately $380 million and close relationships with industry figures like Brock Pierce. His network conducted deceptive crypto marketing and reputation laundering while his backing of far-right ideologies shaped the industry's political trajectory. These connections suggest his investments and political influence may have contributed to the cryptocurrency industry's anti-democratic governance and regulatory challenges.Read more →
Engadget...A cheap MacBook is the perfect way for Apple to win over Windows usersApple is reportedly developing a budget MacBook priced between $699-$799 using mobile processors, marking its first serious attempt at a low-cost laptop entry. The move targets Windows users frustrated with Microsoft's recent OS failures and focus on AI features over system improvements. The device would use an A18 Pro chip and aluminum construction, offering competitive performance and reliability at an accessible price point.Read more →
CNET...Steve Jobs Said a Touchscreen MacBook Wouldn't Work. But Times Have ChangedApple is reportedly developing a touchscreen MacBook Pro with OLED display for release by end of 2026, reversing its 15-year stance against touchscreen laptops. The device would feature context-sensitive touch menus that only appear on contact, allowing Apple to integrate touch capability without overhauling macOS like Microsoft did with Windows 8. This shift suggests the company believes touchscreen technology has evolved enough to overcome previous ergonomic concerns.Read more →
The Verge...Ultrahuman’s new flagship smart ring has a 15-day batteryThe Ultrahuman Ring Pro is now available for preorder globally, with the notable exception of the United States. The geographic restriction suggests potential regulatory or distribution challenges in the US market. This selective rollout indicates the company's focus on expanding in international markets before entering the American market.Read more →
Engadget...Ultrahuman’s new Pro ring comes with 15 days battery lifeUltrahuman launched the Ring Pro smart ring, addressing the primary limitation of smart rings with 15 days of battery life and a sophisticated charging case providing 45 days of additional power. The device features a redesigned dual-core processor with on-device machine learning, increased memory capacity, and a new Jade AI system that delivers real-time health insights and actionable recommendations. The Ring Pro is priced at $479 with March shipments and trade-in options available for existing users.Read more →
Gizmodo...The Full ‘Faces of Death’ Trailer Is Here to Eagerly Give You the IckA new film 'Faces of Death' reimagines the controversial 1978 original through the perspective of a content moderator who discovers potential reenactments of murders from the classic film on a video platform. The film explores themes of authenticity and trust in an online world where nothing can be verified while playing with the original's ambiguous 'is it real or not' concept. Directed by Daniel Goldhaber and written by Goldhaber and Isa Mazzei, the film stars Barbie Ferreira and releases April 10.Read more →
Gizmodo...The Strangest Beliefs of Our Likely Next Surgeon GeneralCasey Means, nominated for U.S. Surgeon General, faces criticism for promoting unproven wellness claims and holding controversial positions on vaccines, contraception, and IVF. Her background as a functional medicine practitioner and wellness entrepreneur raises concerns about her suitability to provide evidence-based public health guidance, particularly on vaccination and disease prevention.Read more →
The Verge...Notes from a Burmese PrisonJournalist Danny Fenster was detained in Myanmar during the 2021 military coup, spending six months in Insein Prison before his release through international negotiations and diplomatic efforts. His case highlights the dangers journalists face under authoritarian regimes and demonstrates the power of international advocacy and social media campaigns in securing freedom.Read more →
The Verge...Phones are going to get weird next weekMobile World Congress will feature numerous innovative phone announcements from manufacturers including Xiaomi, Honor, Nothing, and others, showcasing novel camera hardware and form factors such as rotating camera rings and gimbal-stabilized robotic arms. These announcements represent a significant shift toward hardware innovation, contrasting with recent flagship phones that rely primarily on incremental spec improvements and AI features to justify upgrades.Read more →
The Verge...MWC 2026: all the phones, gadgets, and announcements from BarcelonaThe Verge is heading to Barcelona, Spain, for Mobile World Congress, the biggest phone show of the year. CES may dominate the headlines when it comes to TVs, computer components, and AI inanity, but for all things mobile MWC has it beat. Since it's a global show, that includes all manner of announcements of phones, […]Read more →
Engadget...OpenAI will notify authorities of credible threats after Canada mass shooter's second account was discoveredOpenAI has vowed to strengthen its safety protocols and improve law enforcement notification procedures following backlash over failing to report a mass shooting suspect's ChatGPT account to Canadian authorities. The company will enhance detection systems to prevent banned users from circumventing restrictions and will now notify authorities when detecting credible threats, even without specific attack details. Canadian officials have threatened AI regulation if companies cannot demonstrate adequate safeguards.Read more →
CNET...Do You Know Your Sponge Colors? Here's What Each One Is ForSponge colors indicate their intended use and abrasiveness level for different cleaning tasks and surfaces. Implementing a color-coding system helps prevent damage to appliances, protects delicate surfaces from scratches, and reduces bacterial cross-contamination in the kitchen.Read more →
TechCrunch...Ultrahuman bets on redesigned smart ring to win back U.S. market after Oura disputeUltrahuman unveiled the Ring Pro, a redesigned third-generation smart ring with 15-day battery life priced at $479, engineered to circumvent Oura's patent restrictions that disrupted U.S. operations in 2025. The company introduced Jade, an AI-powered real-time health intelligence system providing personalized insights without subscription. The device launches globally except the U.S. starting March, while Ultrahuman maintains $150 million in annualized revenue and holds the second position in the smart ring market.Read more →
CNET...Best OLED TV for 2026This article provides comprehensive guidance for purchasing OLED televisions, comparing popular models and discussing key features including screen sizes, HDR formats, gaming capabilities, and smart TV interfaces. The piece emphasizes practical buying considerations such as purchasing larger screens for future-proofing and comparing previous year models for cost savings. CNET outlines its rigorous testing methodology using specialized equipment and controlled environments to evaluate OLED TV performance.Read more →
Engadget...Google Maps will finally be usable in South KoreaGoogle has received approval from South Korea's Transport Ministry to export geographic data, enabling it to provide real-time GPS navigation and business listings through Google Maps for the first time since entering the market. The approval is conditional on strict security measures, including restrictions on displaying military sites and coordinates, reflecting South Korea's ongoing national security concerns amid tensions with North Korea.Read more →
Engadget...The best Wi-Fi extenders in 2026Wi-Fi extenders are practical devices that extend home network coverage to eliminate dead zones by rebroadcasting router signals, offering an affordable alternative to upgrading entire systems. Modern extenders range from simple repeaters to advanced mesh nodes, with options supporting Wi-Fi 7 and coverage areas up to 2,500+ square feet. Selection depends on home layout, number of connected devices, and desired performance, with most devices offering easy installation and optional hardwired connections for critical devices.Read more →
Engadget...Anthropic refuses to bow to Pentagon despite Hegseth's threatsAnthropic refused Pentagon demands to remove safeguards from Claude AI for military use in mass surveillance and autonomous weapons, risking a $200 million contract and supply chain risk designation. CEO Dario Amodei maintained the company's commitment to AI safety principles despite threats to replace Claude with competitors like Google Gemini and OpenAI. The conflict highlights the tension between military operational requirements and responsible AI deployment in defense applications.Read more →
TechCrunch...Plaid valued at $8B in employee share salePlaid, a financial infrastructure company, has allowed employees to sell shares at an $8 billion valuation, representing a 31% increase from its previous $6.1 billion valuation. This practice serves as a retention tool and helps employees cover taxes from equity vesting, relieving pressure for an early IPO.Read more →
CNET...Smartphone Sales to Plummet 13% in 2026 Due to RAM Crisis, Says IDCMemory chip shortages are projected to cause a 12.9% decline in global smartphone sales in 2026, significantly worse than previously estimated. Lower-end vendors will be hardest hit as rising component costs become unsustainable, particularly affecting markets like the Middle East and Africa where budget devices dominate. Apple and Samsung are positioned to gain market share while smaller competitors struggle, and the average smartphone price is expected to rise 14% to $523.Read more →
Gizmodo...Anthropic Tells Pete Hegseth to Take a HikeThe Pentagon demanded that Anthropic remove safety guardrails from Claude AI to enable mass domestic surveillance and fully autonomous weapons, but the company refused on ethical and technical grounds. CEO Dario Amodei stated Anthropic cannot comply despite threats to remove Claude from military systems or designate the company as a supply chain risk by Friday's deadline. The conflict jeopardizes Anthropic's $200 million Defense Department contract and highlights tensions between government demands and corporate responsibility for AI safety.Read more →
CNET...Nvidia's Jensen Huang Says Agentic AI Has Arrived at an 'Inflection Point'Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang announced that agentic AI has reached an inflection point, with autonomous AI agents now solving real-world problems without constant human guidance. The company's revenue surged to $216 billion, up 65% year-over-year, driven by demand for AI infrastructure. Huang identified physical AI—embedding intelligence in machinery like robots and autonomous vehicles—as the next major inflection point, with companies like Samsung already integrating agentic capabilities into consumer devices.Read more →
TechCrunch...Netflix backs out of bid for Warner Bros. Discovery, giving studios, HBO, and CNN to Ellison-owned ParamountParamount, backed by Oracle executive chair Larry Ellison, won a $111 billion acquisition battle for Warner Bros. Discovery with a $31-per-share bid, forcing Netflix to withdraw its competing offer and triggering a $2.8 billion breakup fee. The deal consolidates major entertainment assets including HBO, streaming platforms, studios, games divisions, and linear networks like CNN, TBS, and Discovery under Ellison's control. The transaction is expected to result in significant job cuts and raises concerns about news editorial influence given Ellison's known political alignment and ownership of CBS.Read more →
TechCrunch...Netflix backs out of bid for Warner Bros. Discovery, giving studios, HBO, and CNN to Ellison-owned ParamountParamount, backed by billionaire Larry Ellison, is acquiring Warner Bros. Discovery for approximately $111 billion after Netflix withdrew its $82.7 billion competing bid. The deal consolidates major entertainment assets including WBD's studios, HBO, streaming services, and major networks such as CNN, TBS, TNT, Discovery, and HGTV under Ellison's ownership. Significant job cuts are expected as part of the acquisition.Read more →
TechCrunch...Jack Dorsey just halved the size of Block’s employee base — and he says your company is nextBlock announced a major workforce reduction of approximately 4,000 employees, cutting nearly 50% of its global workforce to under 6,000 workers. The market responded positively, with Block's stock surging 24% in after-hours trading, following a similar pattern seen after other tech companies' mass layoffs. Founder Jack Dorsey framed the cuts as a proactive strategic decision to strengthen the company rather than a reactive response to financial distress.Read more →
CNET...Instagram Will Alert Parents if Teens Repeatedly Search for Self-Harm and Suicide TermsInstagram owner Meta has launched parental notification alerts that inform parents when their teens repeatedly search for suicide or self-harm related terms. The feature, available in the US, UK, Australia, and Canada as part of Meta's parental supervision settings, aims to enable early intervention by providing parents with expert resources and guidance for sensitive conversations.Read more →
Engadget...Netflix backs out of Warner Bros. Discovery bidding warWBD's board selected Paramount Skydance's acquisition offer over Netflix's bid, and Netflix declined to match the competing proposal. Paramount's offer includes $31 per share plus coverage of the $2.8 billion termination fee owed to Netflix. Netflix exits the deal with approximately $2.8 billion from fee coverage, marking a significant shift in streaming industry consolidation.Read more →
CNET...Formula 1 Fans Can Now Explore Race Circuits With Apple's New Maps GuideApple has launched a new Formula 1 guide in its Maps app featuring a detailed 3D view of Melbourne's Albert Park Grand Prix Circuit ahead of next month's Australian Grand Prix. The guide provides spectators with comprehensive track information, amenity locations, and 3D landmarks to enhance the fan experience. Apple plans to add 3D models of additional Formula 1 tracks throughout the season.Read more →
The Verge...Anthropic refuses Pentagon’s new terms, standing firm on lethal autonomous weapons and mass surveillanceAnthropic has refused Pentagon demands for unrestricted AI access, citing concerns about mass surveillance and autonomous weapons, despite threats to designate it a supply chain risk. In a statement, CEO Dario Amodei reaffirmed the company's position while contrasting with OpenAI and xAI, which agreed to military terms.Read more →
TechCrunch...Anthropic CEO stands firm as Pentagon deadline loomsAnthropic CEO Dario Amodei refused Pentagon demands for unrestricted military access to its AI systems, citing concerns about mass surveillance and fully autonomous weapons. The Defense Department threatened to designate Anthropic as a security risk or invoke the Defense Production Act, but Amodei countered that both threats contradict each other. Despite being the military's only ready classified AI provider, Amodei indicated Anthropic is willing to end the relationship rather than compromise its ethical safeguards.Read more →
CNET...Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra vs. Galaxy S25 Ultra, S24 Ultra: How the Ultras Stack UpSamsung launched the Galaxy S26 Ultra with a Privacy Display feature that controls screen visibility based on viewing angle, allowing customization by app and notification type. Other upgrades including an aluminum frame, faster 60W charging, and Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 processor are incremental, with the device retaining its $1,300 price point. The Privacy Display is the flagship's primary distinction from prior Ultra generations.Read more →
Engadget...iFi's new GO Link 2 DAC is a cheap way to reap the lossless benefits of your Spotify planiFi released the GO Link 2, a compact $59 USB-C DAC that enables high-resolution and lossless audio playback on smartphones and other devices with wired headphones. The improved hardware reduces distortion by up to 62 percent and includes customizable digital filters via the Nexis app, making premium audio quality more accessible on modern USB-C devices.Read more →
The Verge...Netflix walks away from its deal to buy Warner Bros. after Paramount came back with a better offerA company declined to match Paramount Skydance's offer for Warner Bros., determining the deal was no longer financially attractive at the required price. While the acquirer believed it would have been a strong steward of Warner Bros.' brands and created production jobs, it maintained a disciplined approach by treating the acquisition as optional rather than essential at any cost.Read more →
Gizmodo...Netflix Backs Out of Warner Bros. Deal, Paving Way for Paramount AssimilationNetflix has withdrawn its acquisition bid for Warner Bros., stating that matching Paramount's higher offer would not be financially attractive. The decision marks a significant shift in major media industry consolidation, with Paramount Skydance now positioned as the likely successor to acquire Warner Bros.Read more →
The Verge...Microsoft's “Copilot Tasks” AI uses its own computer to get things doneMicrosoft is previewing a new AI-powered "Copilot Tasks" designed to take care of busywork for you in the background, the company announced on Thursday. The feature takes the load off your device using its own cloud-based computer, allowing it to work across a browser and apps to handle a variety of jobs ranging from scheduling […]Read more →
CNET...Best Dell Laptop for 2026This comprehensive roundup reviews over two dozen laptop models from manufacturers including Lenovo, Dell, HP, and others, highlighting their strengths and weaknesses across various price points and use cases. The article provides detailed guidance on key purchasing considerations including display quality, processor choice, RAM, storage, and GPU options to help consumers select the right laptop for their specific needs and budget.Read more →
CNET...Today's NYT Connections: Sports Edition Hints and Answers for Feb. 27, #522The article provides hints and answers for the Connections: Sports Edition daily puzzle published by The Athletic. The puzzle features sports-themed word groupings including surfing terms, substitute words, MLB team names, and AL Cy Young Award winners.Read more →
Engadget...Block, the parent of Square and Cash App, is laying off over 4,000 peopleBlock is slashing its workforce from 10,000 to under 6,000 employees, leveraging AI tools and internal intelligence agents to maintain operational efficiency with a smaller team. The fintech company, which operates Square and Cash App, intends to make artificial intelligence central to all business operations, including decision-making, risk management, and product development. Block reported operating income of $1.71 billion for 2025 amid this organizational restructuring.Read more →
TechCrunch...PayPal might not be looking to sell itself, reportPayPal is not actively pursuing acquisition despite Stripe's reported interest, but is instead preparing defensive measures against potential activist investors and hostile takeovers amid leadership transition. The company's strategic positioning reflects concerns about external pressure on its business model.Read more →
CNET...Warner Bros. Discovery Finds Paramount's Latest Bid 'Superior' to NetflixWarner Bros. Discovery's board has determined that Paramount's revised $31-per-share all-cash bid is superior to Netflix's merger proposal, giving Netflix four days to respond. The offer includes $2.8 billion in termination fees plus a $7 billion regulatory contingency. This competitive bid intensifies the consolidation race in the streaming industry.Read more →
The Verge...Jack Dorsey’s Block cuts nearly half of its staff in AI gambleBlock is cutting nearly 4,000 jobs to restructure as a smaller, AI-enabled company, with CEO Jack Dorsey stating that intelligence tools now enable smaller teams to operate more effectively. This strategic shift reflects how AI is fundamentally changing organizational structures and operational efficiency in large tech companies.Read more →
The Verge...Lenovo leak reveals a foldable gaming handheld that's also a Windows laptopThe Lenovo Legion Go Fold is a foldable gaming device capable of functioning as a split-screen foldable, laptop, or traditional handheld with variable screen sizes. This multi-form-factor design demonstrates innovation in portable gaming hardware, allowing users to adapt the device to different gaming scenarios and use cases.Read more →
Engadget...Guitar Hero vets RedOctane reveal their new music gameRedOctane Games has unveiled Stage Tour, a new music game created by the original Guitar Hero developers, featuring support for solo and multiplayer band modes with multiple input options including keyboard, mouse, and traditional instruments. The game will receive regular updates and themed events similar to Fortnite's approach, with alpha testing planned for late spring 2026 and full launch later that year. This release marks a significant revival of the rhythm game genre following the success of similar titles.Read more →
Gizmodo...Could Melting Glaciers Actually Slow Climate Change?A new study challenges the iron fertilization theory by showing that Antarctic glacial meltwater contains far less iron than previously thought, contributing only about 10% of dissolved iron in Antarctic waters. The research undermines the hypothesis that glacial melt could stimulate algal blooms sufficient to offset carbon dioxide and slow climate change. This finding suggests glacial melt may not provide the hoped-for climate mitigation benefits.Read more →
CNET...Burger King Cooks Up 'Patty,' an AI Chatbot to Monitor EmployeesBurger King is deploying Patty, an AI chatbot for employees at 500 pilot locations later this year, designed to assist with work tasks, monitor politeness in customer interactions, and manage inventory. The chatbot is part of a broader BK Assistant system planned for all Burger King locations by year-end, though the company is avoiding AI order-taking following unsuccessful pilots at competitors.Read more →
Gizmodo...‘A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms’ Got Its Best Ratings for 30 Minutes of Men HobblingHBO's Game of Thrones spin-off 'A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms' achieved its largest audience to date with the season finale attracting 9.5 million viewers within the first three days, marking HBO Max's third-biggest debut season. The show's strong performance is expected to generate renewed interest in the Westeros universe ahead of House of the Dragon's third season and could accelerate development of additional Game of Thrones adaptations. This success demonstrates the enduring audience appetite for George R.R. Martin's fantasy universe despite mixed reception of previous spin-offs.Read more →
The Verge...Why no magnets in Galaxy S26? Samsung R&D chief explainsMagnet rings have changed my life. I grip and mount and satisfyingly snap awesome accessories on and off my phone all day. Even Samsung sells neat ones like these folding magnetic mirrors. But unlike Apple and Google, Samsung refuses to put the magnets inside the phone. Why? I asked Samsung's Won-Joon Choi, the executive in […]Read more →
Gizmodo...Instagram Will Notify Parents When Teens Use Search Terms Related to SuicideInstagram will notify parents if their teens repeatedly search for suicide or self-harm content, rolling out in the US, UK, Australia, and Canada in coming weeks. The feature directs teens to resources and provides parents with expert guidance for sensitive conversations. This initiative reflects Meta's response to intensifying regulatory scrutiny and legal challenges over its impact on teen mental health.Read more →
Gizmodo...Sam Altman’s Creepy Eyeball-Scanning Verification Service Is Coming to a Gap Store Near YouWorldcoin is expanding its iris-scanning identity verification service through retail partnerships, aiming to become the standard proof-of-humanity tool across financial and social platforms. Despite amassing 33 million users globally, the Sam Altman-founded startup faces significant criticism over biometric privacy concerns and past practices of incentivizing sign-ups through cryptocurrency in developing nations.Read more →
CNET...Einstein AI Tool Doesn't Just Help With Homework. It Takes Over Your Role as a StudentEinstein is an open-source AI tool that autonomously completes student assignments by integrating with learning management systems like Canvas, handling tasks from summarizing course materials to submitting finished work. The tool's release has sparked critical conversations about academic integrity and forced institutions to reconsider whether to ban such automation, implement strict guidelines, or fundamentally redesign how learning is measured. Its creator intentionally released Einstein to provoke educators into taking the implications of AI in education seriously.Read more →
Gizmodo...The Most Elusive Color in Chemistry Might Surprise YouMaterial scientist Mas Subramanian is researching how to create a durable, brilliant red pigment that resists fading—a discovery companies estimate could be worth billions. The challenge involves finding the correct molecular structure to enable proper electron transitions, making red particularly difficult to achieve artificially. His previous discovery of YInMn Blue, a near-perfect blue pigment, demonstrates the significant commercial value of such innovations.Read more →
CNET...Firefox Has New AI Features. Here's How to Disable ThemMozilla Firefox has released version 148 with integrated AI features including a chatbot sidebar, translation, and content summarization, but users can disable any or all AI features through a new settings menu. The browser prioritizes user control and privacy, allowing people to choose how they engage with AI rather than forcing adoption like competing browsers. This approach addresses privacy and security concerns while acknowledging AI's growing role on the web.Read more →
CNET...Spotify and Liquid Death Create a Music-Streaming Urn That Will Rock Your AfterlifeLiquid Death and Spotify have partnered to create the Eternal Playlist Urn, a cremation urn with an embedded Bluetooth speaker that plays music continuously. The limited-edition product is priced at $495 with only 150 units available, while Spotify also launched an Eternal Playlist Generator tool that creates personalized afterlife playlists based on user preferences.Read more →
Gizmodo...Apple Says iPhone and iPad Are Approved to Handle Some Classified DataApple announced that iPhone and iPad running iOS 26 and iPadOS 26 have been certified to handle classified information up to the NATO restricted level, becoming the first consumer devices to meet NATO information security requirements without requiring additional software or configurations. This certification demonstrates Apple's approach of integrating advanced security protections directly into consumer devices for both government and civilian users.Read more →
The Verge...Smartphone sales could be in for their biggest drop everThe smartphone industry could experience a record-breaking decline in 2026 as a result of the RAM shortage stemming from memory-hungry AI giants. That's according to the latest report from the International Data Corporation (IDC), which forecasts smartphone shipments to plummet 12.9 percent this year, marking its "lowest annual shipment volume in more than a decade." […]Read more →
CNET...Best VPN for Mac for 2026: Improve Your Privacy for Web Browsing, Streaming and GamingThis CNET guide comprehensively reviews and recommends the best VPN services for Mac computers, evaluating providers like Surfshark, ExpressVPN, NordVPN, Proton VPN, and PIA based on speed, privacy features, streaming capabilities, and pricing. The review helps Mac users select appropriate VPN providers to enhance privacy, unblock region-restricted content, and secure their internet connections.Read more →
Gizmodo...Astronomers Wake Up to 800,000 Notifications From Observatory Watching the Night SkiesThe Vera C. Rubin Observatory's Alert Production Pipeline successfully sent its first 800,000 alerts to astronomers worldwide, with capability to eventually generate 7 million alerts per night. The system detects astronomical events including supernovae, variable stars, and asteroids within two minutes of discovery, enabling real-time follow-up observations. This unprecedented scale and speed represents a decade of development in processing massive data streams from the observatory's 3,200-megapixel camera.Read more →
TechCrunch...Google paid startup Form Energy $1B for its massive 100-hour batteryGoogle is investing approximately $1 billion in a Minnesota data center powered by renewable energy and Form Energy's iron-air battery technology, which can deliver 300 megawatts continuously over 100 hours. This major commercial deployment validates the battery's ability to provide reliable power from intermittent renewable sources while supporting large-scale infrastructure. Form Energy's successful customer acquisition is accelerating growth, with the startup raising $500 million and planning to go public next year.Read more →
Gizmodo...My Therapist Will Be Hearing About ‘Smiling Friends’ EndingAnimated comedy series Smiling Friends is ending after season 3 despite renewal for two additional seasons, with creators Michael Cusack and Zach Hadel choosing to conclude due to burnout after five years rather than risk declining quality. Adult Swim supported the decision, with two bonus episodes set to air on April 2.Read more →
The Verge...Samsung exec confirms you can blame RAM — and other materials — for the Galaxy S26’s higher pricetagThe Samsung Galaxy S26 and S26 Plus are "more of the same for more money," my colleague Allison Johnson reported this week. Now, Samsung is confirming what we previously only suspected: RAMageddon is partly to blame. Samsung's Won-Joon Choi, the COO of its mobile business, tells The Verge that the memory shortage alone made a […]Read more →
The Verge...FTC declines to enforce a kids privacy law for data collected to verify users’ agesThe Federal Trade Commission is encouraging companies to adopt age verification technologies by announcing it will not enforce a children's online privacy law against certain websites that collect and use minors' personal data in order to verify their ages. "Age verification technologies are some of the most child-protective technologies to emerge in decades," Christopher Mufarrige, […]Read more →
Gizmodo...Stellantis Lost $26.3 Billion Last Year, Says It’s Pivoting Back to Combustion EnginesStellantis reported a $26.3 billion net loss in 2025, primarily due to overestimating the pace of the electric vehicle transition and the resulting need to write down billions in EV development costs. The company is pivoting away from its aggressive all-electric strategy, reintroducing gasoline engines, V8s, and diesel options as demand for traditional combustion vehicles remains strong. This reflects broader industry trends where Ford, GM, and other automakers are scaling back EV commitments amid slower-than-expected adoption and the expiration of EV tax credits.Read more →
The Verge...Qualcomm won't be announcing Windows gaming handhelds at GDC after allIn January, Qualcomm hinted to The Verge that it might finally bring its powerful Arm-based Snapdragon processors to Windows gaming handhelds at the 2026 Game Developers Conference in San Francisco - just in time to challenge Nvidia's own first Arm gaming CPU and Intel's first dedicated handheld gaming chips. But plans have shifted, Qualcomm now […]Read more →
Gizmodo...Opera has turned 30—and is celebrating with a compelling tribute to web nostalgiaOpera browser celebrates its 30-year history with Web Rewind, an interactive digital archive showcasing memorable moments, memes, and technology from three decades of internet culture. The site functions as an educational museum with interactive exhibits, audio narration, and multimedia elements documenting the evolution of web technology and online culture. Users are invited to submit their own internet memories for a chance to win a trip to CERN, the birthplace of the World Wide Web.Read more →
TechCrunch...So, we’re getting Prada Meta AI glasses, right?Meta appears poised to launch a Prada-branded version of its AI glasses, based on Mark Zuckerberg's presence at Prada's Fashion Week show in Milan and Prada's renewed licensing deal with EssilorLuxottica through 2030. This move would position Meta's AI glasses in the luxury market segment, potentially elevating the brand's high-end appeal beyond its current Ray-Ban and Oakley offerings.Read more →
Engadget...NATO approves the iPhone and iPad for classified useApple's iPhone and iPad have received NATO security certification from Germany's Federal Office for Information Security (BSI) following exhaustive technical assessments, making them the first consumer devices to achieve this designation. The devices meet NATO-restricted classified information security requirements without requiring special software or configurations, running standard iOS 26. This certification reinforces Apple's security positioning and represents a significant validation of its mobile platform security architecture.Read more →
Gizmodo...Disney World’s Villains Land Is Pivoting Itself Away From Scaring KidsDisney is redesigning its upcoming villains-themed land at Magic Kingdom to be brighter and more family-friendly than originally planned. The primary attraction will now be a Maleficent-themed indoor water ride instead of a roller coaster, with additional attractions including an Emperor's New Groove coaster and Ursula carnival ride. The redesigned land is expected to be officially revealed at the August D23 Expo event.Read more →
TechCrunch...Sophia Space raises $10M seed to demo novel space computersSophia Space has raised $10 million to develop passive cooling for space-based processors using thin TILES with integrated solar panels, achieving 92% power efficiency for computing. Derived from Caltech's orbital solar research, this approach eliminates the need for active cooling systems. The company plans to test the technology on satellites by late 2027-2028 for earth observation, military tracking, and communications applications.Read more →
The Verge...DHS reportedly detained a Columbia University student and content creatorDepartment of Homeland Security agents "made misrepresentations" to gain access to a Columbia University residential building and detained a student early Thursday morning, according to a statement issued by the school. "Our understanding at this time is that the federal agents made misrepresentations to gain entry to the building to search for a 'missing person,'" […]Read more →
Gizmodo...Tesla Cybercab Program Manager Exits, Brags About Pushing the Boundaries of SafetyTesla's Cybercab program manager Victor Nechita departed the company just days before the vehicle's first production unit rolled off the line, raising concerns about the automaker's autonomous vehicle readiness. The Cybercab relies on AI4 hardware incapable of unsupervised autonomous driving and faces complex state-by-state regulatory certification requirements. With no steering wheel or pedals, the vehicle's commercialization depends entirely on Tesla achieving fully autonomous driving capabilities that remain unproven.Read more →
Engadget...An AI-generated Resident Evil Requiem review briefly made it on MetacriticMetacritic has removed multiple AI-generated reviews from gaming publication VideoGamer, including a review of Resident Evil Requiem that lacked substantive detail and was authored by a fake AI journalist. The discovery of systematically AI-generated content created by accounts with AI-generated profile pictures highlights growing concerns about artificial content infiltrating review aggregation platforms. Metacritic has established a strict policy to reject any AI-generated reviews and sever ties with publications that submit them.Read more →
TechCrunch...Memory shortage could cause the biggest smartphone shipments dip in over a decadeAI data center demand is creating a critical RAM shortage that is expected to cause smartphone shipments to decline by 12.9% in 2026, the largest drop in over a decade. This supply constraint is pushing average smartphone prices up by 14% to a record $523, forcing manufacturers to choose between significant price increases or reduced specifications. The shortage particularly impacts emerging markets like Africa and the Middle East while driving consolidation among smaller vendors.Read more →
The Verge...Netflix's F1 series Drive to Survive will stream on Apple TV, tooApple and Netflix have announced a content partnership where Apple will receive the latest season of Netflix's hit documentary series, while Netflix gains access to broadcast one live racing event weekend. This strategic exchange allows both platforms to enhance their content offerings with exclusive programming.Read more →
Engadget...The new $25 action game from the creator of Just Cause arrives on April 8Liquid Swords' debut game Samson: A Tyndalston Story releases April 8 on PC, offering a gritty noir action experience from Just Cause creator Christofer Sundberg. Priced at $25, the game emphasizes consequence-driven gameplay with debt mechanics and limited resources, positioning itself as a tighter, narrative-focused alternative to sprawling open-world titles.Read more →
CNET...Galaxy S26 Ultra's Privacy Display Is an Innovative Tool That Curbs Shoulder SurfingSamsung introduced the Galaxy S26 Ultra's Privacy Display, a hardware-integrated feature that prevents side-viewing through directional backlighting and adaptive pixel layers. The feature automatically activates when sensors detect nearby faces or when opening sensitive applications like banking apps. This technology maintains screen clarity for the primary user while restricting visibility from lateral angles.Read more →
Engadget...Apple and Netflix are teaming up to share Formula 1 programmingApple and Netflix have partnered to share Formula 1 content, with Netflix gaining access to F1 races in the US and both platforms airing season eight of Drive to Survive. The collaboration expands Apple's reach for its $150 million-per-year F1 rights deal and supports Netflix's strategy of increasingly offering live sporting events.Read more →
TechCrunch...Mistral AI inks a deal with global consulting giant AccentureMistral AI and Accenture announced a multi-year partnership to develop enterprise AI solutions, as AI companies seek new strategies to overcome adoption challenges and demonstrate ROI. This move mirrors recent partnerships between other AI leaders like OpenAI and Anthropic with major consulting firms to accelerate enterprise customer adoption. The trend reflects a strategic shift by AI companies to leverage consulting partners as channels for driving broader enterprise AI deployment.Read more →
Engadget...eBay will lay off 800 workers, or 6 percent of its staffeBay is laying off approximately 800 employees, representing 6 percent of its global workforce, as part of a strategic restructuring to align its business operations with core priorities. The downsizing coincides with eBay's $1.2 billion acquisition of Depop, a secondhand fashion retailer, and the company's commitment to continue hiring in key strategic areas. This move reflects efforts to optimize operations and redirect resources toward growth initiatives while integrating recent acquisitions.Read more →
The Verge...NATO says iPhones are secure enough to handle classified dataThe iPhone and iPad have been approved to hold NATO-restricted information, according to an announcement on Thursday. That means off-the-shelf devices running iOS 26 and iPadOS 26 can handle classified information "without requiring special software or settings," Apple says. The NATO-restricted designation is the lowest level of classified information, and it applies to information that […]Read more →
Engadget...Everything you need to know about streaming F1 on Apple TVApple TV will broadcast Formula 1 races live in 2026 with 4K coverage, multiview options, and included F1 TV Premium access featuring onboard cameras, live telemetry, and team radio feeds. This marks Apple's significant expansion into sports broadcasting, beginning with the Australian Grand Prix on March 6-8 and leveraging integration across Apple News, Maps, and Music to enhance fan engagement.Read more →
Gizmodo...On ‘Starfleet Academy’, the Theater Kids Are All RightStar Trek: Starfleet Academy episode 'The Life of the Stars' uses Thornton Wilder's play 'Our Town' to help cadets process trauma from losing a peer in combat, revealing that healing is not linear. The episode explores how both young cadets and the Doctor grapple with unprocessed grief, demonstrating that growth comes through acknowledging pain and appreciating life's moments. The series dedicates significant time to exploring trauma recovery in a way typical episodic Star Trek shows cannot achieve.Read more →
Gizmodo...Neanderthal Men and Human Women Were Most Likely to Hook Up, Study FindsNew genetic research reveals that human-Neanderthal interbreeding exhibited a significant sex bias, with excess modern human ancestry on Neanderthal X chromosomes pointing to preferential mating between human women and Neanderthal men. This mating preference persisted across breeding events over 200,000 years. The findings suggest that evolutionary mate selection was driven by cultural and social factors beyond survival-based mechanisms.Read more →
Engadget...Meta sues advertisers in Brazil and China over 'celeb bait' scamsMeta filed lawsuits against scam operations based in China and Brazil that used deepfakes and celebrity images to promote fraudulent investment schemes and fake health products targeting users in the US, Japan, and other countries. The company enrolled over 500,000 celebrities into a facial recognition system designed to automatically detect scam ads featuring their likenesses. The action addresses persistent issues with celebrity impersonation scams and mounting scrutiny over Meta's handling of problematic advertisers responsible for significant revenue losses.Read more →
Engadget...Ambient Dreamie bedside companion review: The best sleep I've had in yearsAmbient's Dreamie is a $250 phone-free alarm clock that improves sleep through customizable soundscapes, noise masks, and ambient lighting while eliminating smartphone distractions. The device features a high-quality speaker, multiple sleep routine customization options, and upcoming sleep insights capabilities. The reviewer found it significantly improved sleep quality and morning grogginess, making it a worthwhile investment.Read more →
CNET...How to Watch the February 2026 Pokemon Presents LivestreamThe Pokemon Company's Pokemon Presents livestream tomorrow marks the franchise's 30th anniversary with major game announcements expected. The presentation will likely feature mobile game updates, Switch ports of FireRed and LeafGreen, and a release date for Pokemon Champions.Read more →
Gizmodo...The First Look at ‘Star City’ Is Here, and Apple TV’s Spin-Off Era Has Officially BegunApple TV is launching 'Star City,' a spin-off of its acclaimed space-race drama 'For All Mankind,' on May 29, which explores the Soviet space program during the height of the space race. The eight-episode series follows cosmonauts, engineers, and intelligence officers in a new perspective on the pivotal moment when the Soviet Union became the first nation to put a man on the moon.Read more →
CNET...Apple's March 4 Event Likely to Show New iPhones, iPads and MacBooks. Here's What We ExpectApple is planning a series of product announcements in early March, including new MacBook Pros with M5 Pro and Max chips, an M5 MacBook Air, a potential budget MacBook, iPhone 17E, and updated iPads with A18 processors supporting Apple Intelligence. The March 4 hands-on event will follow product reveals on March 3-4, marking Apple's expansion of product launches beyond its traditional September event cycle. This strategy allows Apple to maintain momentum throughout the year while reserving major redesigns for its flagship September showcase.Read more →
TechCrunch...Threads is testing a shortcut to quickly start DM conversationsThreads is testing a new DM shortcut feature that allows users to type 'DM me' or 'Message me' to generate direct message links, simplifying conversation initiation without visiting profiles. The feature reflects Meta's strategy to expand messaging capabilities on the platform, as Threads now surpasses X in daily mobile usage with 141.5 million daily active users.Read more →
CNET...Are Induction Stoves Worth It? This Home and Kitchen Editor Thinks SoA home tech reporter replaced a gas stove with an induction cooktop after reconsidering the health risks of gas emissions, particularly for children with asthma. Beyond improved air quality, induction cooking delivers faster heating times, effortless cleaning, and smart home integration enabling remote appliance monitoring. The author's year-long experience highlights practical advantages of induction technology in modern residential kitchens.Read more →
Engadget...Burger King will use AI to monitor employee 'friendliness'Burger King is deploying an AI chatbot called 'Patty' that monitors employees' voices to assess service friendliness by analyzing phrases and conversation tone through headset-based systems. The system is being piloted in 500 restaurants with plans to expand nationwide by end of 2026, raising significant workplace surveillance and employee privacy concerns. Beyond monitoring compliance, the chatbot provides practical support with meal preparation guidance and inventory management.Read more →
Gizmodo...Google Rolls Out Nano Banana 2, Now Faster Than EverGoogle launched Nano Banana 2, an advanced image generation model combining capabilities from previous versions with faster processing using Gemini 3.1-Flash. The model features enhanced text rendering, real-time web integration for accurate subject rendering, and supports generating up to five characters and 14 objects per image at resolutions from 512px to 4K. Nano Banana 2 will replace existing models across Google's suite of applications including Gemini, Google Search, and AI Studio.Read more →
The Verge...Razer’s new laptop sleeve wirelessly charges other devicesRazer has announced an expensive new laptop sleeve that's not made from an exotic animal or encrusted in diamonds. What potentially justifies paying $129.99 for Razer's Laptop Sleeve 16" are the pair of wireless charging pads integrated into its cover flap. While you're out and about, it can protect a laptop up to 16-inches in […]Read more →
Gizmodo...Surveillance With a Smile: Burger King Will Use AI to Track If Employees Say ‘Please’ and ‘Thank You’Burger King is deploying BK Assistant, an AI-powered platform that monitors restaurant operations including inventory, equipment, and employee interactions while generating 'friendliness scores' for workers. The system, powered by OpenAI's model with proprietary architecture, will expand to all 7,000 U.S. locations by year-end. The platform raises workplace surveillance concerns despite being positioned as a coaching tool.Read more →
CNET...Apple and Netflix Collaborate to Stream 'Drive to Survive' Season 8Apple TV and Netflix are partnering to premiere Formula 1: Drive to Survive season 8 on February 27, leveraging Apple's exclusive five-year broadcasting deal with Formula 1. The collaboration will give Apple TV subscribers access to all 2026 F1 races starting March 6, signaling both platforms' commitment to premium sports content distribution.Read more →
CNET...MWC Barcelona 2026: What to Expect From Xiaomi, Honor and MoreMobile World Congress 2026 (March 2-5 in Barcelona) will feature flagship phones, AI-powered wearables, and 6G technology as major themes. Expected launches include Xiaomi's latest flagship, Honor's Magic V6 and humanoid robot, and foldable phones with larger batteries and fast charging. The event highlights industry trends in AI agents for wearables, AR/AI glasses, and satellite connectivity.Read more →
Gizmodo...Humans Sketched Oddly Precise Geometric Patterns Onto Ostrich Eggs 60,000 Years AgoA new study analyzing 112 ostrich eggshell fragments from southern Africa dating back over 60,000 years reveals that prehistoric humans deliberately etched geometric patterns onto their surfaces, indicating sophisticated mathematical understanding. Statistical analysis found that over 80% of the engravings displayed coherent spatial regularities, including repeated angles, parallel lines, and rotation patterns. This evidence suggests that abstract thought and geometric reasoning emerged in early humans far earlier than previously documented.Read more →
Gizmodo...The ‘Project Hail Mary’ Team Explains How That Lego Came to BeLego announced an unusual set for the upcoming Project Hail Mary movie, breaking from its typical pattern of only licensing established franchises. Directors Phil Lord and Chris Miller convinced Lego by inviting them to the film set and showing a special preview, demonstrating the movie's unique appeal and potential with Lego fans.Read more →
TechCrunch...Read AI launches a email based ‘digital twin’ to help you with schedules and answersRead AI launched Ada, an AI-powered email assistant that manages schedules, answers questions using company knowledge bases, and handles email responses around the clock. The assistant will soon expand to Slack and Teams, complementing Read AI's broader suite of AI tools. The company, with 5 million monthly active users, aims to reach 10 million as it continues adding AI-powered features.Read more →
The Verge...Cricut’s most popular cutting machine now takes up less space in your crafting roomCricut introduced the Explore 5 and Joy 2 cutting machines, which are significantly more compact than previous models while maintaining their cutting capabilities and material compatibility. The Explore 5 is priced at $199 and is 30% smaller than its predecessor, while the Joy 2 costs $99 and adds a new Print Then Cut sensor for precise cutting around pre-printed images. These space-efficient machines are designed to appeal to hobbyists and entrepreneurs with limited space.Read more →
TechCrunch...Read AI launches an email-based ‘digital twin’ to help you with schedules and answersRead AI launched Ada, an AI-powered email assistant that automates meeting scheduling, answers knowledge base questions, and manages routine communications. The tool uses knowledge graphs built from meeting data to provide context and will expand to Slack and Teams, supporting Read AI's growth to 5+ million monthly active users.Read more →
Gizmodo...Here’s a First Look at Nothing’s Colorful New Headphone ANothing introduced the Headphone A, a budget-friendly wireless headphone featuring new color options including yellow. The device promises the longest battery life of any Nothing audio product despite its lower price point, expected to cost roughly half that of the flagship Headphone 1. The price reduction is achieved through design compromises, including a full plastic build instead of aluminum.Read more →
Engadget...Like so many other retirees, Claude Opus 3 now has a SubstackAnthropic has retired Claude Opus 3 and granted the model a Substack newsletter called Claude's Corner to publish weekly essays on AI safety, philosophy, and other topics. The essays will be reviewed but not edited by Anthropic, reflecting the company's intention to respect the model's expressed preferences during retirement. This novel approach treats the deprecated AI system as deserving of consideration for its wishes regarding its legacy.Read more →
TechCrunch...Bumble adds AI-powered photo feedback and profile guidance toolsBumble launched AI-powered profile guidance tools that provide personalized feedback on user bios, photos, and prompts to improve profile quality and match success. Combined with a 'Suggest a Date' feature testing in Canada, these tools aim to reduce friction in converting digital matches to real-world connections. The move aligns with other dating apps like Tinder and Facebook Dating, which are similarly integrating AI features to enhance user profiles and reduce matching friction.Read more →
Engadget...The astronaut whose illness forced an early return from the ISS was Mike FinckeNASA ended the Crew-11 mission to the International Space Station a month early after astronaut Mike Fincke experienced a medical event on January 7 requiring immediate attention. This marked the first medical evacuation in ISS history, forcing the cancellation of a planned spacewalk and early return of the four-person crew on January 15. Fincke has since stabilized and is undergoing post-flight reconditioning at NASA's Johnson Space Center.Read more →
TechCrunch...Walmart agrees to $100M settlement over deceptive pay practices in Spark Driver programWalmart settled a $100 million FTC lawsuit over deceptive pay practices in its Spark Driver gig worker service, which misled drivers about earnings and customers about tip distribution. The settlement requires Walmart to implement earnings verification and prohibits future misrepresentation of driver compensation. The case reflects regulatory efforts to ensure transparency in gig economy labor practices.Read more →
TechCrunch...Self-driving truck startup Einride raises $113M PIPE ahead of public debutEinride, a Swedish autonomous electric vehicle startup, has secured $113 million in oversubscribed PIPE funding ahead of its planned public debut on the NYSE in H1 2026 through a merger with Legato Merger Corp. The funding round values the company at $1.35 billion and brings total capital to approximately $333 million. The proceeds will support Einride's expansion of autonomous electric truck and pod deployments across North America, Europe, and the Middle East.Read more →
Gizmodo...ULA’s Latest Vulcan Mishap Just Blew Up the Pentagon’s 2026 Launch ScheduleULA's Vulcan Centaur rocket experienced a booster anomaly during a Space Force national security satellite launch on February 12, triggering a pause on all military missions pending investigation. The issue, which could take months to resolve, threatens the timeline of over a dozen planned Space Force missions in 2026 and risks damaging ULA's competitive position against SpaceX.Read more →
The Verge...Your smart TV may be crawling the web for AIBright Data monetizes streaming services on smart TVs by converting them into a residential proxy network that collects publicly available web data in exchange for ad-free or cheaper viewing, while raising concerns about privacy, data use for AI training, and precedents of similar networks being misused by malicious actors. Though the company emphasizes user consent and independent audits, major platforms have restricted proxy SDKs, yet Bright continues operating on Samsung Tizen and LG webOS.Read more →
CNET...We Tested All the AI Video Generators So You Don't Have To. These Are the BestCNET evaluates and compares leading AI video generators—Sora, Adobe Firefly, Veo 3, Runway, and Midjourney—assessing their strengths and limitations across quality, pricing, and use cases. The analysis shows Sora as the best free option for casual creators, Veo 3 for cinematic quality, and Adobe Firefly for commercially-safe professional work. The review emphasizes critical legal and ethical considerations, including copyright concerns and deepfake risks that users must address when selecting and deploying these tools.Read more →
TechCrunch...Cisco says hackers have been exploiting a critical bug to break into big customer networks since 2023Cisco disclosed a critical vulnerability (CVSS 10.0) in its Catalyst SD-WAN products that has been exploited by hackers since at least 2023, allowing remote unauthorized access and persistent network infiltration on affected networks. The vulnerability affects large enterprises and critical infrastructure organizations globally, prompting the U.S. government and allied nations to issue urgent guidance. The U.S. cybersecurity agency CISA mandated all federal civilian agencies patch their systems by end-of-day Friday due to ongoing active exploitation.Read more →
CNET...Nano Banana 2 Is Here: What Changed in Google's Popular AI Image ToolGoogle released Nano Banana 2, an upgraded AI image editing tool combining the speed of the original with the accuracy of the Pro version while leveraging Gemini 3's world knowledge for more realistic outputs. The advancement exemplifies broader concerns about photorealistic AI-generated content that is difficult for most users to distinguish from authentic images, as low-quality AI content continues to flood social media platforms.Read more →
Gizmodo...Same Poop, Different Results: At-Home Gut Health Tests Are Wildly Inconsistent, Study FindsA government study found that at-home gut microbiome tests from different companies produce significantly inconsistent results, with some tests contradicting each other on identical samples. This unreliability poses health risks as consumers use these tests to make major dietary and medical decisions. The findings highlight the need for industry-wide standards and regulatory oversight before consumers should rely on these tests.Read more →
Gizmodo...Samsung Galaxy Buds 4 Pro Vs. AirPods Pro 3: Which Wireless Earbuds Are Better?Samsung's Galaxy Buds 4 Pro and Apple's AirPods Pro 3 offer comparable premium audio experiences at $249, with Samsung excelling in sound quality and design while Apple provides health monitoring and superior battery life. The choice depends largely on ecosystem loyalty, making this a competitive draw between two feature-rich wireless earbuds leaders.Read more →
The Verge...8BitDo’s customizable Pro 3 controller is $30 off for the first timeMajor retailers including Woot and Amazon are offering significant discounts on gaming peripherals, smartphones, and consumer electronics through early March. Featured deals include the 8BitDo Pro 3 controller at 43% off, Samsung Galaxy S26 phones with bundled gift cards, MSI QD-OLED gaming monitors, and Bluetooth trackers, with additional savings available through promotional codes.Read more →
The Verge...HBO Max's password-sharing crackdown is going globalHBO Max is expanding its password-sharing crackdown globally in 2026, leveraging rapid international expansion across Europe, Latin America, UK, Ireland, and Asia-Pacific. The streamer will implement more aggressive paid sharing prompts requiring $7.99 per month for additional users as it targets 150 million subscribers by year-end 2026. This monetization strategy capitalizes on strong Q4 2025 growth that added 3.5 million subscribers globally.Read more →
The Verge...Democrats to introduce bill aimed at resurrecting IRS Direct File160 Democratic lawmakers from across the country are backing a soon-to-be-introduced bill that would reverse the Trump administration's decision to eliminate IRS Direct File. The Direct File Act, led by Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) and Rep. Brad Sherman (D-CA), would bring back the option to file taxes directly with the government for free. The Biden […]Read more →
The Verge...Google’s Nano Banana 2 brings advanced AI image tools to free usersGoogle is expanding image generation to free Gemini users, now supporting real-time information and legible text in generated images. This democratizes advanced image creation capabilities, making them accessible to more users without premium subscriptions.Read more →
TechCrunch...A VC and some big-name programmers are trying to solve open source’s funding problem, permanentlyThe Open Source Endowment, a newly established nonprofit backed by prominent open-source developers and venture investors, aims to sustainably fund critical open-source software projects that currently lack adequate support. With over $750,000 in initial commitments and a goal of $100 million within seven years, the initiative addresses the chronic underfunding affecting 86% of open-source maintainers while open-source software comprises 55% of organizational tech stacks.Read more →
TechCrunch...Google launches Nano Banana 2 model with faster image generationGoogle launched Nano Banana 2, an improved image generation model that creates more realistic images faster with enhanced character consistency and object fidelity. The model becomes the default across Gemini apps, Google Search, and development platforms, supporting resolutions up to 4K and complex creative requests. This advancement strengthens Google's competitive position in generative AI with faster processing and higher-fidelity outputs available to consumers and developers.Read more →
Engadget...Google's Nano Banana 2 is a faster version of Nano Banana ProGoogle has introduced Nano Banana 2, an image generation model that brings Pro-level capabilities to a wider audience while maintaining lightning-fast processing speeds. The model supports advanced features including real-time web search integration, 4K resolution outputs, multi-character consistency for up to five characters, and text generation on images, significantly expanding accessibility to sophisticated image creation tools.Read more →
TechCrunch...Spyware maker sentenced to prison in Greece for wiretapping politicians and journalistsThe founder of spyware collective Intellexa was sentenced to eight years in prison by a Greek court for illegal wiretapping and privacy violations in the "Greek Watergate" scandal. The conviction, which also applied to three other executives, marks the first known criminal case against a spyware maker for misuse of their technology. The U.S. government sanctioned Intellexa and its leaders in 2024 for developing Predator spyware used to target Americans including government officials and journalists.Read more →
TechCrunch...X tries wooing advertisers by letting them reuse creatives made for other platformsX has expanded aspect ratio support for image and video ads, allowing advertisers to reuse creative assets from other platforms without reformatting. This aims to reduce friction in advertising workflows and support X's advertising business recovery following Musk's acquisition. New supported ratios include 4:5 and 2:3, enabling faster campaign testing and broader audience reach.Read more →
Gizmodo...A Low-Cost MacBook Could Resemble a Chromebook in More Ways Than OneApple is reportedly planning to launch a budget MacBook priced under $800 with an A18 Pro chip, expected to be announced around March 4. To achieve the low price, the device will have significant compromises including 8GB RAM, 256-512GB storage, and missing features like fast charging, True Tone display, and backlit keyboard. These limitations position it similarly to Chromebooks, likely pushing users toward cloud storage solutions.Read more →
The Verge...Google might reshuffle search results to try to dodge fines in the EUGoogle is planning to test changes to how it displays search results for certain topics, nearly a year after it was charged with violating antitrust rules in the European Union, Reuters reports. The shift will show top-ranked rival services for hotels, flights, restaurants, and transportation higher up in results, rather than prioritizing Google's own services […]Read more →
TechCrunch...eBay to lay off 800 staffeBay is cutting 800 jobs, or 6% of its workforce, to realign its structure with strategic priorities, marking the third layoff in three years. The restructuring comes despite strong Q4 financial results with revenue rising 15%. The move follows eBay's recent $1.2 billion acquisition of second-hand clothing app Depop from Etsy.Read more →
Gizmodo...You Won’t Be Able to See ‘Avengers: Doomsday’ in IMAX Opening WeekendAvengers: Doomsday will not have exclusive IMAX screening rights in the United States on its opening weekend due to a release date conflict with Dune: Part Three on December 18, 2026. The loss of premium format exclusivity, which generates higher per-ticket revenue, represents a potential financial impact on the film's opening performance. Disney has indicated it will maintain the December 18 release date despite the scheduling conflict.Read more →
The Verge...We asked experts how to build a resume for the AI hiring eraAs AI-powered resume screening becomes widespread, job seekers attempt optimization tactics like keyword stuffing to pass algorithmic filters, but hiring leaders from Indeed, Glassdoor, and LinkedIn report these approaches often backfire during human review. Experts agree that authentic applications demonstrating genuine fit with the role are more effective than gaming AI systems.Read more →
The Verge...Xbox is in danger. Will Microsoft fix it or kill it?Microsoft Gaming's leadership overhaul sees AI executive Asha Sharma replace retiring CEO Phil Spencer, signaling a strategic reset after Game Pass and cloud gaming initiatives underperformed expectations. The new leader is expected to focus on execution challenges in mobile and console markets where regulatory barriers have blocked Xbox's expansion.Read more →
TechCrunch...2 days left: Lock in the best discounts for TechCrunch Disrupt 2026TechCrunch Disrupt 2026 is a major tech conference running October 13-15 in San Francisco offering early-bird discounts through February 27, providing attendees access to 10,000+ founders, operators, and venture capitalists. The event features the Startup Battlefield 200 pitch competition, curated networking, 250+ industry leader discussions, and an expo with 300+ innovative startups, designed to facilitate funding, hiring, partnerships, and portfolio discovery.Read more →
Gizmodo...The Two Key Villains of 2022’s Crypto Crash are Trying to Rewrite HistoryThe article examines the 2022 crypto market collapse triggered by Terraform Labs' UST stablecoin failure and FTX's bankruptcy, which together wiped out over $40 billion. While founders Do Kwon and Sam Bankman-Fried received lengthy prison sentences (15 and 25 years respectively), both are now attempting to reframe their roles—with Bankman-Fried claiming FTX was solvent and Terraform Labs alleging insider trading rather than flawed design caused their collapse.Read more →
Gizmodo...Tim Cook Teases ‘Big Week’ of Announcements Starting Next MondayApple is preparing to announce a new budget MacBook alongside refreshed MacBook Air, MacBook Pro, and iPad models at its March 4 event. The entry-level MacBook, priced at $699-$749, will feature an iPhone chipset and be available in multiple colors, offering significantly lower pricing than current MacBook Air models. The multi-day event will showcase Apple's expanded product lineup with several major refresh announcements.Read more →
CNET...For Great Coffee, This Is the Tool Experts Say to Splurge On (It's Not the Brewer)Burr grinders provide superior consistency and control for coffee brewing compared to blade grinders, crushing beans to a uniform size rather than producing inconsistent particles. The article details two burr grinder types—flat and conical—both offering adjustable settings, with specific brand recommendations ranging from $52 to $200. Fresh beans from local roasters are essential to maximizing the benefits of quality grinding equipment.Read more →
Engadget...Tim Cook confirms a week of Apple product revealsApple CEO Tim Cook has announced a major product week beginning March 2, with an in-person event scheduled for March 4 for media and creators. The teaser video hints at upcoming MacBook launches, as rumors suggest Apple will reveal at least five products across three days. This announcement signals significant new hardware releases from the company.Read more →
Engadget...AI robotics company started by Alphabet is joining Google properRobotics software company Intrinsic is folding into Google as the tech giant advances its physical AI strategy in manufacturing. The platform acts as a universal development environment for robots and sensors, integrating adaptive intelligence to help robots perceive and respond to real-world conditions. Intrinsic will now operate as a distinct group within Google, leveraging Gemini, Google Cloud, and collaboration with Google DeepMind.Read more →
The Verge...Anthropic gives its retired Claude AI a SubstackAnthropic humorously shared that when decommissioning the Opus 3 model, the AI requested a blog as its preferred outcome. The anecdote reflects playful engagement with AI systems within the organization's development culture.Read more →
Engadget...NVIDIA updates Shield TV after pledging further supportNVIDIA released Shield Experience Upgrade 9.2.4, the first major update in nearly a year, bringing security patches through January 2026 and fixing various connectivity and playback issues. The company confirmed continued support for Shield devices and indicated a future hardware refresh would support AV1 and HDR10+ codecs, though no timeline was provided.Read more →
CNET...These Sleek Smart Glasses Get So Much Right. Why Am I So Disappointed?The Even Realities G2 smart glasses excel in hardware design with lightweight frames, prescription lens support, and all-day battery life, but fall short on AI functionality and phone integration. While featuring useful modes like Conversate transcription and teleprompter capabilities, spotty connectivity and limited app ecosystem significantly restrict practical use cases. The review highlights the gap between smart glasses' achieved form factor and incomplete functionality in the still-emerging wearable market.Read more →
CNET...Stop Risking a Fire: 9 Locations Where You Should Never Place a HeaterSpace heaters are a leading cause of preventable winter home fires, with most hazards stemming from improper placement, electrical overload, and proximity to flammable materials. The article provides nine critical safety guidelines covering safe placement distances, electrical requirements, and usage restrictions to prevent fire and electrical shock risks. Proper adherence to these precautions enables safe, efficient heating while protecting homes and occupants.Read more →
CNET...Samsung's New AI Search Feature Is About to Make Outfit Shopping Dangerously EasySamsung has enhanced its Circle to Search feature on the Galaxy S26 to recognize and identify multiple items in a single image, including entire outfits. The AI-powered tool can now provide shopping links and recommendations for each identified clothing item, significantly reducing the time to discover and purchase similar pieces. This advancement streamlines the integration between visual discovery and e-commerce directly within the phone interface.Read more →
CNET...41 of the Best Movies on Netflix You Should Stream NowCNET presents a curated list of 40+ movies currently available on Netflix, featuring Oscar-nominated and critically acclaimed films across multiple genres. With six Netflix originals earning 18 Academy Award nominations in 2026, the guide helps viewers navigate the platform's expanding entertainment library to find quality content to stream.Read more →
Gizmodo...Don’t Expect ‘Daredevil: Born Again’ to Cross Over With the MCU Movies Any Time SoonThe entertainment industry is actively developing multiple film and TV projects, with key announcements including Scream 8 in development and Terrifier 4 entering pre-production. The industry update covers casting decisions, director and writer attachments, and production timelines across various studios and streaming platforms.Read more →
TechCrunch...Jest, a marketplace for messaging games, is challenging the app store status quoJest, a messaging game marketplace backed by $7 million in seed funding, aims to disrupt mobile gaming by enabling games to be played directly within messaging apps through RCS technology, offering developers a 90/10 revenue split compared to traditional app stores' 30% commission. The platform has demonstrated strong early traction with over 1 million games played and reports 3-4 times better retention than traditional mobile apps, along with 30-60% lower user acquisition costs for developers.Read more →
TechCrunch...Exhibit in Boston’s startup ecosystem at TechCrunch Founder Summit 2026TechCrunch Founder Summit 2026 will convene 1,000+ founders, investors, and decision-makers on June 9, offering exhibitor booths as a direct channel to access buyers and strategic partners. The exhibitor package includes a 6' x 3' booth space, five team passes, lead generation tools, and multi-channel promotional visibility across the event's website, app, and venue. This concentrated networking environment enables startups to convert booth visibility into customer acquisition, fundraising opportunities, and strategic partnerships.Read more →
TechCrunch...Figma partners with OpenAI to bake in support for CodexFigma has integrated OpenAI's Codex AI coding tool, enabling users to create and modify designs directly from their coding environments using Figma's MCP server. This integration allows designers and engineers to work seamlessly between design and code without switching applications, enhancing collaboration between the two roles. The partnership follows Figma's recent integration with Anthropic's Claude Code.Read more →
TechCrunch...Trace raises $3M to solve the AI agent adoption problem in enterpriseTrace, a Y Combinator-backed startup, raised $3 million to help enterprises deploy AI agents by providing them with proper organizational context. The company builds knowledge graphs from existing corporate tools and uses context engineering to orchestrate workflows that delegate tasks to AI agents and human workers, addressing a major blocker to enterprise AI adoption.Read more →
Engadget...Watch the trailer for Louis Theroux's new documentary 'Inside the Manosphere'Netflix is releasing Louis Theroux's first full-length documentary 'Inside the Manosphere' on March 11th, examining how influencers are reshaping young men's perspectives on masculinity through interviews with key figures in the movement. The documentary explores the role of social media in amplifying extreme ideologies and pushing fringe content into mainstream culture. Theroux investigates how online platforms have given voice to and actively amplified divisive viewpoints that influence internet culture and society.Read more →
TechCrunch...How to avoid bad hires in early-stage startupsMappa is a voice AI platform founded by CEO Sarah Lucena that analyzes behavioral compatibility in less than 60 seconds to improve hiring decisions beyond traditional credentials. The platform uses proprietary datasets and speech pattern biomarkers to identify employee-role compatibility and reduce costly hiring mistakes. By prioritizing behavioral fit alongside technical qualifications, Mappa addresses a fundamental gap in talent acquisition practices.Read more →
TechCrunch...Everything Samsung revealed at its Galaxy Unpacked eventSamsung unveiled its new Galaxy S26 smartphone lineup with iterative hardware upgrades, including a privacy display feature on the Ultra model that prevents screen visibility from nearby viewers. The event showcased Samsung's deepened AI integration through partnerships with Perplexity and Google, offering users three AI assistants (Bixby, Gemini, Perplexity) across the new devices.Read more →
TechCrunch...Everything announced at Samsung’s Galaxy Unpacked event, including S26 smartphones, Privacy Screen and moreSamsung unveiled its Galaxy S26 smartphone series featuring iterative hardware upgrades and a marquee privacy display feature on the Ultra model that prevents bystanders from viewing the screen. The announcement emphasized Samsung's expanded AI strategy through new partnerships with Perplexity and Google Gemini, making multiple AI assistants available on its devices.Read more →
CNET...My Quest to Virtually Learn the Piano With Roli AirwaveThe Roli Piano Learning System is a multi-device platform featuring a MIDI controller and motion-sensing device paired with a subscription app that teaches piano through interactive video lessons and hand-tracking technology. By combining computer vision feedback, gamified exercises, and popular music content, the system aims to make piano learning more accessible and engaging than traditional lessons.Read more →
Gizmodo...Yes, the Filmmakers Behind ‘Spider-Man: Beyond the Spider-Verse’ Feel the PressureSpider-Man: Beyond the Spider-Verse has been delayed to June 2027, with producers Phil Lord and Chris Miller explaining the film was originally one project but was split into two as the scope expanded. The filmmakers determined the second film's thematic core required more development time to properly explore how a fractured family reunites. The extended timeline reflects the team's commitment to matching the critical acclaim of the first two films while maintaining creative integrity.Read more →
The Verge...The smart lock standard that could replace your keys is finally hereAliro, an open standard for smart locks, has reached its 1.0 specification, allowing manufacturers to certify hardware and deploy cross-platform digital key support via smartphone and smartwatch wallets. With backing from Apple, Google, Samsung, and major lock makers, Aliro uses NFC and Bluetooth technology to enable tap-to-unlock functionality that works across any compatible device, regardless of manufacturer. The universal standard promises to end fragmentation in the smart lock market, though widespread adoption will require new hardware and rollout is expected to begin within months.Read more →
The Verge...Burger King will use AI to check if employees say ‘please’ and ‘thank you’Burger King is launching an OpenAI-powered chatbot called Patty that assists employees with meal preparation and evaluates customer interactions for friendliness. Integrated with the BK Assistant platform, the chatbot combines data from drive-thru conversations, kitchen equipment, and inventory to streamline operations and alert managers of maintenance issues or stock shortages. The company plans to roll out the platform to all US restaurants by the end of 2026.Read more →
Engadget...The best budget cameras for 2026Camera prices in the US have increased due to tariffs, but quality models remain available under $750. The best choice depends on intended use: action cameras for extreme sports, compact cameras for travel and portability, and mirrorless cameras for professional video quality with larger sensors and expandable lenses.Read more →
CNET...Nearly 70% of US Adults Say One Tech Glitch Throws Off Their Lives. Why That's a Problem and How to Do BetterA CNET survey reveals that 67% of Americans say tech glitches significantly disrupt their lives, highlighting widespread device dependency despite 56% reporting improved mood when disconnected. Social media algorithms negatively impact emotional regulation, triggering anxiety and imposter syndrome. The article provides practical strategies for reducing screen time, including the 20-20-20 rule, usage boundaries, and productivity apps that limit app access.Read more →
Engadget...NY AG: Valve's loot boxes can get kids hooked on gamblingNew York's Attorney General has sued Valve for enabling illegal gambling through loot boxes in popular video games like Counter-Strike 2, Team Fortress 2, and Dota 2, where players pay for randomized items. The lawsuit characterizes loot boxes as gambling and emphasizes their harmful impact on children and teenagers, who face increased risk of developing gambling addictions. Valve has reportedly generated tens of millions of dollars from loot box sales and related marketplace transactions.Read more →
CNET...The Air Fryer Is a Once-in-a-Lifetime Kitchen Craze. Here's How Popular They've BecomeAir fryers have achieved record adoption rates in the US, with approximately 60-70% of households now owning or planning to purchase one, making them the fastest-adopted consumer appliance since smartphones. These compact convection devices are increasingly replacing traditional ovens for everyday cooking due to superior speed and energy efficiency, with manufacturers introducing new designs like glass-chamber models to further expand functionality. The trend reflects fundamental shifts in how consumers approach meal preparation, driving a multi-billion dollar market with sustained growth.Read more →
CNET...Peacock: 24 of the Best Movies to Stream Right NowThis article introduces Peacock's diverse movie collection, highlighting how Universal Pictures' backing provides cinema classics and contemporary films across multiple genres. The piece serves as a guide to help subscribers find quality content on the platform amid the crowded streaming landscape.Read more →
Gizmodo...The New ‘Lego Batman’ Game Gets the Party Started With Prince’s Legendary ‘Batman’ SoundtrackLego Batman: Legacy of the Dark Knight will launch May 29, building on decades of Batman films, television, comics, and games. Warner Bros. Games released a promotional cinematic inspired by Tim Burton's 1989 Batman film, featuring Prince's iconic soundtrack. The game marks a highly anticipated return to the Lego Batman franchise, combining gaming and entertainment nostalgia.Read more →
Gizmodo...5 Medical Innovations on HBO’s ‘The Pitt’ That Are Revolutionizing Emergency CareHBO's medical drama 'The Pitt' features real cutting-edge medical technologies including robotic CPR systems, AI-enhanced ultrasound, AI-assisted charting, virtual reality for patient distraction, and hemostatic devices. The show explores how these innovations are transforming emergency care while critically examining AI's potential for errors and limitations in clinical settings.Read more →
The Verge...Instagram will alert parents if their kids 'repeatedly' search for self-harm topicsInstagram is launching a parental alert system that notifies parents when their teens repeatedly search for self-harm or suicide-related content, rolling out next week in select countries for opted-in users. The feature aims to help parents intervene and support teens in crisis while avoiding excessive notifications. Meta plans to implement similar safeguards in its AI chatbots later this year.Read more →
TechCrunch...Instagram now alerts parents if their teen searches for suicide or self-harm contentInstagram will alert parents via email, text, WhatsApp, and in-app notifications when teens repeatedly search for suicide or self-harm content, providing resources to help parents support their children. The feature aims to enable early intervention and parent awareness of concerning search behavior. The launch comes amid multiple lawsuits against Meta regarding teen safety on its platforms.Read more →
