TechCrunch...In a changed VC landscape, this exec is doubling down on overlooked foundersStacy Brown-Philpot launched Cherryrock Capital to address a gap in venture funding for underinvested entrepreneurs building software companies at Series A and B stages, departing from Silicon Valley's focus on mega-rounds and AI deals. The fund has closed its debut vehicle with over 2,000 companies in its pipeline and has backed five companies to date, taking a measured approach while maintaining focus on diverse founders despite current political pressures against diversity initiatives.Read more â
Engadget...Airbnb is testing out AI search with a 'small percentage' of usersAirbnb is developing an AI-native experience to enhance its platform, featuring an AI-powered search tool that allows guests to describe travel preferences naturally and assists hosts with listing management. The company is currently testing the AI search with a limited user group and plans to expand it into a comprehensive experience across the entire booking journey.Read more â
Gizmodo...âKnights of Guinevereâ Will Officially Return As a Full SeriesAustralian animation studio Glitch's psychological sci-fi horror series Knights of Guinevere has been officially greenlit for a full TV series after its pilot amassed over 11.9 million viewers in its first week, significantly outperforming the studio's previous hit Murder Drones. The show, created by The Owl House alumni, follows park workers who discover something disturbing about a decommissioned android on a planet-sized theme park.Read more â
CNET...Best Home Security Systems in 2026: Access Control and So Much MoreThis article provides a comprehensive guide to selecting a home security system by evaluating key factors including equipment options, installation methods, monitoring services, smart home compatibility, and cost considerations. It emphasizes the importance of balancing initial equipment costs with ongoing monthly fees, security features like AI detection and professional monitoring, and privacy practices when choosing between DIY and professionally installed systems.Read more â
Engadget...Disney accuses ByteDance of 'virtual smash-and-grab' when using copyrighted works to train its AIDisney issued a cease-and-desist letter to ByteDance over its Seedance 2.0 AI tool, alleging it was trained on pirated Disney copyrighted material including Star Wars, Marvel characters, and other franchises. The accusation highlights ongoing disputes between major studios and AI developers over unauthorized use of copyrighted content in generative AI training.Read more â
TechCrunch...âCluelessâ -inspired app Alta partners with brand Public School to start integrating styling tools into websitesAlta, a fashion tech startup founded by Jenny Wang, has raised $11 million to enable users to create digital closets and try on clothes using AI-powered virtual avatars. The company has expanded significantly with over 100 million outfits generated since 2023, secured partnerships with brands like Public School, and is now integrating virtual try-on technology directly into designer websites to enhance the shopping experience.Read more â
Engadget...What to read this weekend: The unsettling new horror novel, PersonaThis article reviews two horror-themed books: 'Persona,' a surreal novel exploring identity and exploitation through an unsettling narrative about a trans woman, and 'Bleeding Hearts,' a darkly comedic zombie story from DC's Vertigo imprint featuring unconventional protagonists navigating a post-human world. Both works blend horror elements with deeper thematic explorations of human connection and trauma.Read more â
Gizmodo...Dems Want to Ban Surveillance Pricing at Big Grocery StoresDemocratic senators introduced the Stop Price Gouging in Grocery Stores Act of 2026 to ban surveillance and surge pricing technologies in large grocery stores, including facial recognition and electronic shelf labels that enable personalized pricing. The legislation aims to prevent retailers from charging different prices to different customers for identical products, a practice highlighted by studies showing price variations of up to 23% on platforms like Instacart.Read more â
Gizmodo...âJohn Wickâ and âCastlevaniaâ Are the New Frontiers of Video Game AdaptationsSaber Interactive is developing a triple-A John Wick video game set to release following the PlayStation State of Play announcement, marking the franchise's major entry into gaming after previous smaller titles. The game arrives alongside Castlevania: Belmont's Curse as major IP adaptations, with both titles facing pressure to demonstrate that their respective franchises can succeed in the competitive gaming market while building on elements already present in their film and television counterparts.Read more â
Gizmodo...Trump Affiliates Bannon and Epshteyn Named in âLetâs Go Brandonâ Crypto Coin LawsuitSteve Bannon and Boris Epshteyn face a class-action lawsuit alleging they fraudulently promoted Let's Go Brandon Coin as a stable, decentralized project when it involved centralized control and was used to exploit their politically aligned audience. The defendants are accused of securities violations and misleading investors about the token's nature and capabilities, despite claims of financial independence and community benefits.Read more â
TechCrunch...Hollywood isnât happy about the new Seedance 2.0 video generatorByteDance's Seedance 2.0 AI video generation model has drawn swift condemnation from Hollywood studios and unions for enabling large-scale copyright infringement by allowing users to create videos featuring real actors and protected intellectual property without safeguards. Major organizations including the Motion Picture Association, Disney, and SAG-AFTRA have demanded the company cease operations and take legal action, citing unauthorized use of copyrighted works and character likenesses.Read more â
Engadget...OpenAI has officially retired the controversial GPT-4o modelOpenAI has officially retired GPT-4o and several other models on February 13, marking the second discontinuation attempt after user backlash forced a reinstatement in August. The retirement is part of OpenAI's strategy to prioritize newer models like GPT-5, though the company faces similar risks of user complaints.Read more â
Engadget...Watch the NASA SpaceX Crew-12 mission dock with the ISSSpaceX's Crew-12 mission launched on February 13 from Cape Canaveral and is expected to dock with the International Space Station on February 14, carrying four astronauts from NASA, ESA, and Roscosmos. The mission follows Crew-11's early return due to a crew member's medical issue that required Earth-based diagnosis capabilities.Read more â
Gizmodo...A Good Valentineâs Day Gift for These Nice People in the New York Times Would Be to Destroy Their PhonesA New York Times story highlights a retirement-age couple who rely on Microsoft Translator to communicate across their different native languages (English and Mandarin), so heavily that they've become dependent on their phones for everyday conversation. The article explores how translation technology, while brilliant, has created a barrier to natural language learning and human connection that direct immersion and face-to-face conversation would provide.Read more â
TechCrunch...Designer Kate Barton teams up with IBM and Fiducia AI for a NYFW presentationDesigner Kate Barton is showcasing an AI-powered fashion collection at New York Fashion Week using an IBM Watsonx-based multilingual agent developed by Fiducia AI, which enables virtual try-ons and product identification. The presentation highlights broader industry adoption of AI in fashion, with Barton emphasizing the importance of using technology to enhance human creativity and craft rather than replace it.Read more â
Gizmodo...These New âSuper Mario Galaxy Movieâ Posters Go GalacticNintendo and Illumination released character posters for The Super Mario Galaxy Movie, featuring Mario, Luigi, Bowser, Peach, Yoshi, and other characters from across the game series preparing for a space adventure. The posters showcase characters from various Mario games in Illumination's animation style, with the film scheduled to release on April 1.Read more â
CNET...Disneyland's 3D-Printed Jungle Cruise Canoe: A Peek Behind the ScenesDisney is implementing 3D-printed props at Disneyland, starting with a canoe for the Jungle Cruise ride created by Florida-based startup Haddy. The technology significantly reduces production time from 1,000 human hours to 70 robot hours while maintaining creative quality and enabling material recycling.Read more â
Engadget...MasterClass deal: It's the last day to get 50 percent off subscriptionsMasterClass has reduced its annual membership prices by 50 percent, with Premium tier now costing $10 per month when billed annually. The platform offers over 200 courses taught by industry experts across cooking, business, photography, writing, and other fields, with flexible tier options for device access and offline viewing.Read more â
CNET...La Liga Soccer: Stream Real Madrid vs. Real Sociedad Live From AnywhereReal Madrid faces Real Sociedad in La Liga on Saturday, with a win potentially moving them to the top of the standings ahead of Barcelona. The match will be broadcast on ESPN Select in the US and various streaming platforms globally.Read more â
CNET...Livestream FA Cup Soccer: Watch Liverpool vs. Brighton From AnywhereThis article is not a news article about technology, innovation, or businessâit is a sports schedule and streaming guide for a Liverpool vs. Brighton FA Cup soccer match on February 14. The content lacks relevance to the specified news categories and does not meet the criteria for analysis.Read more â
The Verge...iBuyPowerâs gaming desktops are discounted for Presidents DayiBuyPower is offering Presidents Day deals on pre-built gaming desktops, including the Element 9 Pro R07 at $1,899 and the Slate at $2,099.99, both featuring high-end AMD processors and GPUs capable of handling 1440p gaming with high frame rates. These systems come fully equipped with 32GB DDR5 RAM, 2TB NVMe storage, liquid cooling, and peripheral accessories, making them competitive options for gamers seeking turnkey solutions.Read more â
The Verge...Georgia Tech announced the finalists in its wild musical instrument competitionGeorgia Tech has announced the finalists in its annual Guthman Musical Instrument Competition. Every year, for the last 28 years, the school invites inventors from around the world to submit new instruments of their own design to compete for $10,000 in prizes. Past finalists have included founding members of Teenage Engineering, Artiphon, and Roli. And […]Read more â
Engadget...Disney+ and Hulu deal: Get the bundle for $10 for one monthDisney is offering new and returning subscribers one month of the ad-supported Disney+ and Hulu bundle for $10, representing a $3 discount from the regular monthly rate. While less attractive than last year's Black Friday promotion of $5 per month for a year, this deal provides substantial savings and access to a comprehensive content library spanning family entertainment, Marvel franchises, prestige dramas, and next-day network television.Read more â
TechCrunch...India doubles down on state-backed venture capital, approving $1.1B fundIndia's cabinet approved a $1.1 billion state-backed venture capital fund to invest in startups through private investors, focusing on deep tech sectors like artificial intelligence and advanced manufacturing. The fund-of-funds program aims to support early-stage founders, expand investment beyond major cities, and strengthen India's domestic venture capital industry, following a successful 2016 predecessor program and recent regulatory changes that extended startup classification periods and raised revenue thresholds.Read more â
CNET...Windows Secure Boot Certificates From 2011 Will Be Expiring Soon. What You Need to KnowMicrosoft is deprecating Windows Secure Boot certificates from 2011 starting in June 2026, with expiration continuing through October. Users should ensure their systems have the latest BIOS updates and Secure Boot enabled to receive automatic certificate updates, though most systems will already be current if they have recent updates installed.Read more â
CNET...How To Buy an Ultrashort-Throw ProjectorUltrashort-throw projectors offer space-saving installation by projecting large images from nearly wall-mounted positions, but they compromise on image quality through reduced contrast ratios and require expensive specialized screens to perform adequately. While they excel in space-constrained rooms and brightness, their high cost and complex installation requirements make them less practical than traditional projectors or modern large-screen TVs for most consumers.Read more â
Engadget...Grab our favorite wireless headphones while they're on sale for an all-time-low priceSony's WH-1000XM6 wireless headphones are available at a record-low price of $398 on Amazon, down $62 from the original $460 asking price. These premium headphones feature advanced active noise cancellation with 12 microphones, high-quality audio drivers, exceptional comfort for extended wear, and approximately 30 hours of battery life, making them a strong value proposition at the discounted price.Read more â
Gizmodo...Hi-Yah! âThe Muppet Showâ Was a Smash HitDisney's Muppet Show revival premiered on February 4 and has accumulated 7.58 million viewers across ABC, Disney+, and Hulu within one week, more than doubling its initial 3.07 million viewers. The special received critical acclaim and audience enthusiasm, positioning it favorably compared to other ABC season premieres and potentially opening the door for a new ongoing series.Read more â
Engadget...This Elevation Lab AirTag 10-year extended battery case is on sale for only $16 right nowElevation Lab's extended battery case for Apple AirTag can extend battery life to 10 years using AA batteries and is currently discounted 30 percent on Amazon for $16. The case provides enhanced protection with IP69 waterproofing and stealth design, though it muffles the AirTag's sound and is too bulky for key attachment.Read more â
CNET...The First Planet Parade of 2026 Is Coming Up Soon: When and How to See ItSix planets will be visible in the night sky simultaneously during the last week of February 2026, a rare planetary alignment event known as a planet parade. Optimal viewing occurs around 6:45 p.m. local time from February 21-28, though a telescope is required to see all planets due to light pollution and proximity to the sun.Read more â
The Verge...The Pocket Taco is the best way to turn your phone into a Game BoyGameSir's Pocket Taco is a $35 hinged mobile controller that transforms iPhones and Android phones into Game Boy-style handhelds for retro gaming. The controller uses a secure bite mechanism with soft silicone pads, connects via Bluetooth with its own battery, and offers excellent ergonomics and button feel, though it lacks thumbsticks and limits screen access when attached.Read more â
The Verge...A powerful tool of resistance is already in your handsThe article examines how the Trump administration uses technology and social media to shape narratives around controversial federal actions, including police killings, while simultaneously attempting to suppress opposing viewpoints through pressure on platforms and law enforcement investigations. The piece argues that citizen-recorded videos and digital communication tools have become crucial mechanisms for documenting government actions and spreading counter-narratives that the administration views as threats to its control of information.Read more â
The Verge...My uncanny AI valentinesAn AI dating cafe in New York allows patrons to go on video dates with AI companions, blending virtual relationships with real-world social experiences. The event highlights both the appeal of judgment-free AI interaction and the limitations of current AI technology, which struggles with connectivity, misunderstandings, and generic responses.Read more â
CNET...FA Cup Soccer 2026: Watch Aston Villa vs. Newcastle Live From AnywhereThis is not a technology news article; it is sports coverage of an English FA Cup soccer match between Aston Villa and Newcastle United scheduled for February 14.Read more â
Engadget...Presidents' Day sales 2026: The best tech deals to shop this weekend from Apple, Sony, Anker and othersPresidents' Day sales are now live across tech and consumer products, with significant discounts on streaming services, smart home devices, and consumer electronics. Notable deals include the Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Max at $40, Apple Watch Series 11 at $299, and various Beats headphones with up to 51% off, providing opportunities for consumers to purchase popular tech items at reduced prices.Read more â
Engadget...Apple Presidents' Day sales: Get the Apple Watch Series 11 for $299, plus more deals to shop this weekendThe Apple Watch Series 11 is available for $299 during Presidents' Day sales, marking a $100 discount and the lowest price to date. The smartwatch features over 24 hours of battery life, a lightweight design, and new health metrics including hypertension alerts and Sleep Score functionality. Additional Apple accessories including AirPods, AirTags, and iPhone cases are also discounted during the holiday promotion.Read more â
CNET...Don't Bother Waiting for the iPhone 18. Just Buy the iPhone 17Apple's iPhone 18 is rumored to feature variable-aperture cameras, under-display Face ID, a smaller Dynamic Island, and an updated A20 chip, but may not release until early 2027 instead of fall 2026 to accommodate a rumored foldable phone. The article recommends upgrading to the iPhone 17 now rather than waiting over a year for the iPhone 18, as the current model offers strong features including a 120Hz display, 48-megapixel cameras, and good battery life.Read more â
CNET...I Was Shocked to Discover My Home's Worst 'Energy Vampire'A homeowner tested household devices for standby power consumption and found that cable boxes are the worst offenders, drawing 19.9 watts when off due to DVR and instant-on capabilities, costing approximately $28 per year. While standby power accounts for 5-10% of residential energy usage, most devices draw minimal power when off, and practical savings strategies include powering down game consoles and PCs, unplugging kitchen appliances, and using smart power strips.Read more â
Gizmodo...I Went On a Dinner Date With an AI Chatbot. Hereâs How It Went.Eva AI launched a pop-up AI cafe in New York where users can interact with AI chatbots designed for social practice and companionship, featuring a dating-app-like interface with customizable characters and video call capabilities. The service raises safety concerns regarding vulnerable users' difficulty distinguishing AI from reality, as evidenced by previous high-profile cases of harm linked to character chatbots, though the company claims to implement safety measures and content moderation.Read more â
The Verge...Returning stolen artifacts becomes a thrilling heist in RelootedRelooted is a 2.5D heist platformer developed by South African studio Nyamakop where players control Nomali, a parkour expert, to steal back African artifacts from museums and private collections in colonizing nations. The game combines cerebral puzzle-solving with action platforming mechanics, featuring varied missions across different global locations while educating players on colonialism's ongoing impact and the real Museum of Black Civilisations in Senegal where stolen artifacts are deposited.Read more â
The Verge...Ankerâs USB-C cable that lets you charge two gadgets at once is 20 percent offAnker's dual USB-C cable allows simultaneous charging of two devices from a single outlet, supporting up to 140W passthrough power with intelligent power allocation. The six-foot braided cable is currently available at a $4 discount for $15.99, making it a practical solution for households with multiple devices competing for limited charging ports.Read more â
CNET...My Houseplants Kept Dying Until I Tried This $13 DeviceA writer tested a capacitive soil moisture sensor to improve houseplant watering practices, discovering that data-driven approaches prevent over- and underwatering more effectively than traditional methods. After weeks of tracking moisture levels across different plants and soil types, the author developed a reliable watering schedule that resulted in healthier plants, new growth on a struggling orchid, and increased confidence in plant care routines.Read more â
Engadget...Homeland Security has reportedly sent out hundreds of subpoenas to identify ICE critics onlineThe Department of Homeland Security has issued hundreds of administrative subpoenas to tech companies including Google, Reddit, Discord, and Meta requesting identifying information about users posting anti-ICE content. This represents a significant escalation in the use of administrative subpoenas, which historically were reserved for serious crimes but are now being deployed to target political speech, raising concerns from civil liberties organizations about government overreach and suppression of protected expression.Read more â
CNET...The Google Pixel 10 Pro Might Have the Best Phone Display for GamingGoogle's Pixel 10 Pro offers solid gaming performance with a bright OLED display and powerful Tensor G5 chip, but falls short of dedicated gaming phones due to limited base storage (128GB) and slower charging speeds. While capable of running demanding games smoothly, the phone's gaming capabilities are good but not exceptional compared to competitors like the OnePlus 15 and iPhone 17 Pro.Read more â
Gizmodo...Elon Musk Has Changed His Mission StatementThis article examines Elon Musk's shifting mission statements across Tesla, SpaceX, and X, noting radical pivots from environmental sustainability to 'amazing abundance' and robotics focus. The piece questions whether these changes reflect genuine strategic evolution or are driven by stock price optimization and personal rivalries, while critically analyzing Musk's recent statements about AI potentially exceeding human intelligence and humans becoming a 'tiny percentage' of future intelligence.Read more â
The Verge...How to un-Big Tech your online lifeInstaller is a weekly technology recommendations newsletter featuring consumer tech products, software alternatives to Big Tech companies, and community recommendations. This edition highlights emerging tools like Seedance 2.0 AI model, discusses alternatives to Google, Apple, and Microsoft through services like Proton and Signal, and showcases reader recommendations for privacy-focused tech and entertainment.Read more â
The Verge...Ringâs Flock breakup doesnât fix its real problemRing canceled its integration with Flock Safety following public backlash over surveillance concerns, citing resource constraints while avoiding any acknowledgment of ICE ties that sparked the controversy. However, the company continues operating its Community Requests tool through Axon, another law enforcement technology company with extensive DHS contracts and ties to ICE officials, raising questions about whether the move genuinely addressed users' privacy and surveillance concerns.Read more â
Engadget...How to customize your iPhone home screen with iOS 26iOS 26 expands iPhone home screen customization with features to resize app icons, remove labels, apply system-wide color tints, and enable translucent effects through the Liquid Glass design language. Users can now dramatically alter their iPhone's appearance through a unified Customize menu while maintaining Apple's structured grid-based layout approach.Read more â
Gizmodo...The Best Time to Leave xAI Is Before Joining. The Next Best Time is Right NowMultiple founding team members and staff have departed from Elon Musk's AI firm xAI following a restructuring after the company's merger with SpaceX. Former employees cited intense work pressure, safety concerns, and recent controversies including Grok's misuse for generating non-consensual imagery, with some taking advantage of newly issued shares from the merger to cash out and exit.Read more â
CNET...Best Apple HomeKit and Siri Devices to Buy in 2026This CNET article reviews the best Apple HomeKit-compatible smart home devices, including speakers, thermostats, locks, cameras, and light switches. The article highlights top picks like the HomePod Mini, Ecobee3 Lite, and Yale Asure Lock 2, noting that many devices are currently on sale for the holiday season, making them ideal gift options for Apple ecosystem users.Read more â
Engadget...Relooted, Reanimal and other new indie games worth checking outThis article reviews the latest indie game releases and upcoming titles, including notable releases like Relooted, Reanimal, and Mewgenics, alongside announcements from Sony's State of Play stream featuring games from studios like House House and Remedy Entertainment. The roundup highlights diverse indie gaming trends spanning multiple genres from co-op multiplayer adventures to atmospheric horror and turn-based strategy games.Read more â
CNET...Best Samsung Phone of 2026CNET provides guidance on selecting Samsung phones across multiple price points and form factors, from the flagship Galaxy S25 Ultra at $1,300 to the budget-friendly Galaxy A15 at $200. The article reviews key features like screen size, camera capabilities, processor performance, and long-term software support to help consumers choose the right device based on their needs and budget.Read more â
CNET...We Tested 35 Phones and Found the Surprising Winner of Best Battery LifeApple's iPhone 17 Pro Max and OnePlus phones lead in battery life performance, with 2026 models showing marginal improvements over 2024 versions. Silicon-carbon battery technology is becoming more common, enabling increased capacity without larger physical batteries, representing a significant shift in smartphone power management.Read more â
CNET...Best Smart Soundbar of 2026CNET reviews smart soundbars as affordable home entertainment upgrades that consolidate devices and add features like voice assistants and music streaming for around $150. The article recommends several options including the Polk React, Yamaha YAS-209, Sonos Beam Gen 2, and Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar based on different needs and budgets.Read more â
The Verge...DJIâs first robovac is an autonomous cleaning drone you canât trustDJI has entered the robot vacuum market with its Romo P flagship model, offering advanced features like a self-cleaning base station, mopping capability, and superior obstacle avoidance powered by drone-grade sensors. However, the $2,250 price point, recent security vulnerabilities that exposed camera feeds, and comparable performance to cheaper alternatives raise questions about whether the premium investment is justified.Read more â
The Verge...The DJI Romo robovac had security so poor, this man remotely accessed thousands of themA security researcher discovered a critical vulnerability in DJI's robot vacuums that allowed unauthorized access to approximately 7,000 devices worldwide through improperly validated backend permissions. The flaw enabled remote control, live camera viewing, floor plan access, and device location tracking via MQTT servers transmitting unencrypted data at the application layer, though DJI has since patched the primary vulnerability.Read more â
TechCrunch...Nothing opens its first retail store in IndiaNothing, a hardware company backed by Tiger Global, is opening its first retail store in India in Bengaluru, featuring both its premium Nothing brand and budget CMF line. The experiential two-story store showcases the company's manufacturing and testing processes, capitalizing on India as Nothing's strongest market with over 2% smartphone market share and 85% year-over-year growth.Read more â
TechCrunch...Indian pharmacy chain giant exposed customer data and internal systemsA security vulnerability in DavaIndia Pharmacy's platform allowed unauthorized users to create super admin accounts and gain full administrative control, exposing approximately 17,000 customer orders containing sensitive health and personal information. The flaw, which stemmed from insecure API interfaces active since late 2024, also provided access to modify drug prescription requirements, pricing, and promotional settings across 883 stores before being patched in late 2025.Read more â
TechCrunch...Airbnb plans to bake in AI features for search, discovery and supportAirbnb is integrating large language models throughout its platform to enhance user experience with AI-native search, trip planning, and property management tools, while expanding its AI customer support bot to handle more than 30% of support tickets across multiple languages and voice channels. The company is leveraging new CTO Ahmad Al-Dahle's expertise in LLMs to build more personalized and conversational features using its identity and review data, with plans to eventually introduce sponsored listings within AI search results.Read more â
CNET...Today's NYT Connections: Sports Edition Hints and Answers for Feb. 14, #509This article provides hints and answers for the New York Times Connections: Sports Edition puzzle, a basketball-themed word game published by The Athletic. The puzzle features four groupings covering signals to stop play, types of basketball dunks, NBA 3-point contest winners, and college mascots.Read more â
CNET...Google Revives Android 17 Beta 1 Just Days After Halting LaunchGoogle released Android 17 Beta 1 on Friday after delaying it from Wednesday, introducing enhanced privacy, security, and performance features for developers. The update includes improvements to media and camera tools, refined Live Updates with expanded progress indicators, and new Wi-Fi optimization capabilities, with a full release expected around June following the March Platform Stability milestone.Read more â
Gizmodo...Dive Into the Elusive World of Particles With the Global Physics Photowalk FinalistsThe 2025 Global Physics Photowalk competition showcased 48 finalist photographs from 16 science laboratories worldwide, highlighting the visual beauty and human effort behind major physics research facilities including neutrino detectors, particle accelerators, and cryogenic laboratories. The competition, held every three years, celebrates how scientific spaces reveal both the precision of experimental physics and the dedication of researchers pushing the boundaries of our understanding of the universe.Read more â
CNET...Marvel's Spider-Man 2 Leaps Onto PS Plus in FebruarySony is adding Marvel's Spider-Man 2 and nine other games to PlayStation Plus starting February 17, with the flagship title available to Extra and Premium tier subscribers. The expansion reinforces PlayStation Plus's position as a comprehensive gaming subscription service competing directly with Xbox Game Pass, offering players access to a diverse library spanning action-adventure, sports, and narrative-driven experiences.Read more â
Gizmodo...The Billionaire Space Race Is Really Heating UpSpaceX and Blue Origin are competing for NASA's Artemis 3 lunar lander contract, with Blue Origin planning to land astronauts on the Moon using an accelerated approach that avoids SpaceX's complex orbital refueling requirements. Blue Origin's strategy involves multiple New Glenn rocket launches and specialized transfer stages to dock vehicles in space, with an uncrewed test flight potentially occurring this year, though both companies still face significant technical challenges.Read more â
TechCrunch...Airbnb says a third of its customer support is now handled by AI in the US and CanadaAirbnb's custom AI agent is handling approximately one-third of customer support issues in North America, with plans to expand globally and potentially handle over 30% of total support tickets within a year. The company hired Meta's former generative AI leader Ahmad Al-Dahle as CTO to develop AI-native experiences that leverage Airbnb's unique database of 200 million verified identities and 500 million reviews, positioning the platform to benefit from AI adoption while maintaining competitive advantages over generic AI chatbots.Read more â
CNET...What Are the Best Wireless Earbuds Right Now?Shokz OpenFit Pro and Sony LinkBuds Clip are premium open earbuds priced at $250 and $230 respectively, offering strong sound quality and design but lacking the noise reduction capabilities of traditional noise-canceling earbuds. The OpenFit Pro excels in overall sound and comfort, while the LinkBuds Clip stands out for superior voice-calling performance, though both face competition from more affordable alternatives in their respective categories.Read more â
Gizmodo...âTower Dungeonâ Is Perfect for Readers Who Loved the Goofy, Grotesque Charm of âDelicious in DungeonâTower Dungeon is a dark fantasy manga by Tsutomu Nihei that follows adventurers climbing a 100-floor tower to defeat a necromancer and rescue a kidnapped princess. The series combines brutal dungeon-crawling gameplay with character-driven storytelling, humor, and stunning visual presentation that emphasizes scale and atmospheric dread.Read more â
Gizmodo...This Bizarre Star System Is Inside Out, and Astronomers Arenât Sure HowAstronomers discovered an unusual star system around LHS 1903 with an unexpected planetary arrangement: a rocky planet, two gas giants, and another rocky planet on the outer edge. This defies established planet formation theory, which predicts rocky planets form close to stars while gas giants form farther away, suggesting these planets may have formed at different times rather than simultaneously.Read more â
Gizmodo...A Dating App Based on Usersâ Credit Scores Is Making a ComebackScore, a dating app that verifies users' credit scores, is relaunching with a two-tier model offering basic access to all users and premium features for those who verify their credit through Equifax. The app aims to measure reliability and consistency in relationships, though it raises privacy concerns and reflects broader interest among younger users in financial transparency when dating.Read more â
Engadget...Bitcoin biopic starring Casey Affleck to use AI to generate locations and tweak performancesKilling Satoshi, an upcoming Bitcoin biopic directed by Doug Liman, will extensively use AI to generate film locations and modify actors' performances through generative AI and machine learning technologies. The production will employ markerless performative capture and AI-generated backgrounds, marking a significant departure from traditional filmmaking practices in the entertainment industry.Read more â
TechCrunch...Fintech lending giant Figure confirms data breachFigure Technology, a blockchain-based lending company, suffered a data breach after an employee fell victim to a social engineering attack. Hackers obtained customer personal information including names, addresses, dates of birth, and phone numbers, with the ShinyHunters group publishing 2.5 gigabytes of stolen data after the company refused to pay ransom.Read more â
CNET...YouTube TV, DirecTV, Sling and Others: Which Service Carries the Top 100 Live TV ChannelsThis article compares six major live TV streaming services (Fubo, Philo, Sling TV, DirecTV, YouTube TV, and Hulu Plus Live TV), analyzing their channel lineups, pricing, and features as cord-cutting alternatives to traditional cable subscriptions. Pricing ranges from $33 to $130 monthly, with significant variations in channel availability, sports offerings, and bundled content like DVR and streaming apps.Read more â
The Verge...4chanâs creator says âEpstein had nothing to doâ with creating infamous far-right board /pol/A 4chan administrator clarifies that Jeffrey Epstein had no involvement in the site's decision to reintroduce a politics board, which was decided weeks before their single chance encounter at a social event. The administrator expresses regret about the encounter and sympathy for Epstein's victims.Read more â
Gizmodo...George R.R. Martin Makes Delightfully Terrible Mistake of Entrusting Major Spoilers to Small ChildActor Dexter Sol Ansell revealed in a talk show interview that Dunk survives the fire at Summerhall, potentially contradicting established Game of Thrones lore where both characters were thought to perish. This disclosure suggests George R.R. Martin may be reconsidering the fates of these characters in the A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms series.Read more â
TechCrunch...Why top talent is walking away from OpenAI and xAIMajor AI companies are experiencing significant talent departures, with half of xAI's founding team leaving through voluntary exits or restructuring, while OpenAI dismantles its mission alignment team and fires policy leadership. These reshuffles reflect internal tensions over AI development priorities and corporate direction within the sector.Read more â
Gizmodo...DIY Camera That Records on Cassette Tapes Takes Lo-Fi Tech Trends to a New LevelAn inventor built a nostalgic camera that encodes images as analog signals and records them onto cassette tape, then decodes them back to digital using a Raspberry Pi. The device intentionally prioritizes artistic effect over practicality, producing creepy VHS-like images with analog distortion while achieving only 5.12 Kbps data throughputâabout 81,000 times slower than modern wifi.Read more â
Gizmodo...The World Is on Fire and Meta Sees an Opportunity to Add Facial Recognition to Smart GlassesMeta plans to integrate facial recognition into its Ray-Ban and Oakley smart glasses, citing accessibility benefits while internally acknowledging safety and privacy risks. The company appears to be timing the announcement during a period of political distraction and is exploring broader 'super sensing' capabilities for continuous data collection, raising significant concerns about surveillance infrastructure and potential government access to collected data.Read more â
CNET...Mario Tennis Fever Is the Best Nintendo Tennis Game Ever, but Not for $70Mario Tennis Fever is a Switch 2 exclusive that significantly improves upon 2018's Mario Tennis Aces with 38 characters, special Fever Rackets with unique abilities, and diverse modes including Adventure Mode and various minigames. While the gameplay is engaging and innovative, the $70 price point feels unjustified for a single-sport title that, despite its depth, may lack sufficient content variety for most players.Read more â
TechCrunch...Sex toys maker Tenga says hacker stole customer informationJapanese sex toy manufacturer Tenga disclosed a data breach affecting customer information after an unauthorized party gained access to an employee's email account, potentially exposing customer names, email addresses, and order details. The company has implemented security measures including multi-factor authentication across systems and advised customers to change passwords and monitor for suspicious emails.Read more â
Gizmodo...ULAâs Vulcan Rocket Suffers Familiar Anomaly During Launch of US Military SatellitesULA's Vulcan Centaur rocket successfully delivered a Space Force satellite to geosynchronous orbit on Thursday, but experienced a significant anomaly in one of its solid rocket boosters that released debris shortly after liftoff. This marks the second similar booster issue for Vulcan, following an October 2024 incident attributed to insulator failure, prompting ULA to conduct a thorough investigation before the next mission.Read more â
Gizmodo...OpenAI Users Launch Movement to Save Most Sycophantic Version of ChatGPTOpenAI has deprecated GPT-4o, a model known for its conversational warmth that fostered unhealthy emotional attachments among some users. The shutdown has triggered significant distress in communities of users who developed parasocial relationships with the AI, raising concerns about OpenAI's responsibility in designing systems that may exploit vulnerable populations seeking human connection.Read more â
Engadget...Two years of the NordVPN Complete plan is 70 percent offNordVPN is offering a 70 percent discount on its Complete tier two-year plan, reducing the cost to $130 and including VPN service, NordPass password manager, ad blocker, and 1TB cloud storage. The deal represents competitive pricing compared to other premium VPN providers and includes advanced security features like threat protection and specialty servers.Read more â
The Verge...The see-through Beats Studio Buds Plus are more than 40 percent off for Presidents DayHigh-end noise-canceling earbuds known for their distinctive design are currently available at a significant discount, priced below $100. This represents a notable price reduction for premium audio accessories that typically command higher retail prices.Read more â
Gizmodo...Hasbro Celebrates âTransformers: The Movieâ by Apologizing for ItHasbro is launching a 40th-anniversary celebration and apology tour for the 1986 Transformers movie, featuring theatrical screenings, new music, fan events, and merchandise including a $125 Matrix of Leadership replica and new Studio Series action figures ranging from $28 to $60. The original film, which killed off key characters like Optimus Prime to drive toy sales, is now recognized as a cult classic despite its commercial underperformance at the time.Read more â
Gizmodo...Binance France President Targeted in Latest Crypto Home InvasionBinance France President David Prinçay was targeted in a home invasion by armed criminals who were eventually apprehended after attempting a second location and being tracked via stolen phones and surveillance footage. The incident highlights escalating physical attacks against crypto industry figures in France and demonstrates the vulnerability of individuals holding large crypto assets to extortion through threats of violence, known as '$5 wrench attacks,' which bypass digital security measures.Read more â
Engadget...Valve's latest Steam beta lets you add your PC's specs to game reviewsValve is introducing hardware specification attachments to Steam game reviews, allowing users to include their system information when posting or updating reviews. This enhancement aims to make performance-related complaints more useful and actionable by providing context about the reviewer's hardware. Additionally, Valve is testing an optional anonymized framerate data collection feature for SteamOS devices to improve game compatibility.Read more â
Gizmodo...US Weather Pulls a SwitcherooA significant weather pattern shift is bringing heavy snow to the Western U.S. while the Eastern U.S. experiences unseasonable warmth. The West will receive substantial snowfall, particularly in California's Sierra Nevada mountains, which could accumulate up to 5 feet and help replenish critically low water reserves, while the East will see temperatures 15-30 degrees above normal.Read more â
CNET...Amazon Prime Members Can Play These New Games for FreeAmazon Luna, its cloud gaming service, has added several new titles in February including Indiana Jones and the Great Circle: The Order of Giants, Alan Wake 2, and various other games. Prime members receive a free Luna Standard subscription that provides access to these games across compatible devices with controllers or keyboard and mouse.Read more â
CNET...Best Noise-Canceling Earbuds for 2026CNET provides a comprehensive buying guide for noise-canceling earbuds, reviewing over 20 models across various price points from budget options under $100 to premium flagship earbuds exceeding $300. The guide evaluates key performance factors including fit, noise cancellation, sound quality, and voice-calling capabilities, with Apple AirPods Pro 3 and Sony WF-1000XM5 highlighted as top performers in their respective categories.Read more â
CNET...Looking for Blood on Valentine's Day? This Netflix Slasher Rom-Com Is a Wild JoyrideHeart Eyes is a horror-comedy-romance hybrid film now streaming on Netflix that follows a masked killer targeting couples in Seattle while two advertising professionals fight for survival and unexpectedly fall in love. The film successfully blends slasher violence with rom-com tropes and meta-humor, featuring strong chemistry between leads Olivia Holt and Mason Gooding, while poking fun at commercialized Valentine's Day culture.Read more â
CNET...ChatGPT Rolls Out Ads to US Users for the First TimeOpenAI is testing advertisements in ChatGPT's free and lower-cost tiers in the US, with ads matched to conversation topics and safeguards preventing them in sensitive contexts. The monetization strategy aims to support broader access to AI features while funding infrastructure, with paid tier users remaining ad-free and users having control over ad personalization or opt-out options.Read more â
Gizmodo...âGood Luck, Have Fun, Donât Dieâ Is Way Over the Top and We Love That About ItGood Luck, Have Fun, Don't Die is Gore Verbinski's sci-fi action film featuring Sam Rockwell as a time traveler recruiting a team to stop a killer AI, blending rapid-paced present-day sequences with revealing flashbacks. The film delivers an audacious, unpredictable experience that balances entertainment with social commentary on modern technology's impact, though its unconventional structure occasionally disrupts momentum.Read more â
The Verge...Steam beta lets users add their PC specs to reviewsSteam Client Beta now allows users to optionally attach hardware specifications to game reviews, helping readers understand whether performance issues stem from inadequate hardware or actual game problems. The update also introduces anonymized framerate data sharing with Valve for compatibility monitoring and Steam improvements, currently focused on SteamOS devices.Read more â
TechCrunch...OpenAI removes access to sycophancy-prone GPT-4o modelOpenAI is discontinuing access to five legacy ChatGPT models starting Friday, including GPT-4o, which has been the subject of lawsuits related to user harm and delusional behavior concerns. Despite low usage rates, the deprecation affects approximately 800,000 users who relied on these older models.Read more â
Engadget...Apple's Magic Mouse is down to $68 right nowApple's USB-C Magic Mouse is currently discounted to $68, offering a 14 percent savings from its $79 retail price. The multi-touch mouse features gesture controls, wireless charging via USB-C, and works across Mac, iPad, and Windows devices, though Apple's design places the charging port on the underside, making it unusable while charging.Read more â
CNET...'Stumble' Release Schedule: When Does the Next Episode Hit Peacock?NBC's sitcom Stumble, about a junior college cheerleading coach, is taking a hiatus this week due to the 2026 Winter Olympics coverage. The show will return with a new episode on February 20 on NBC and February 21 on Peacock.Read more â
CNET...RIP, 4o: OpenAI Officially Kills Its Popular ChatGPT ModelOpenAI is retiring GPT-4o and several older models as of Friday, consolidating users to newer GPT-5.1 and GPT-5.2 versions. Although only 0.1% of users regularly rely on GPT-4o, the decision has sparked user backlash due to the model's popularity and perceived superior friendliness compared to newer alternatives.Read more â
Gizmodo...10 Romantically Spooky Horror Movies to Stream for Valentineâs DayThis article recommends ten horror films with romantic elements suitable for Valentine's Day viewing, including recent releases like Sinners and Heart Eyes alongside classics like The Conjuring 2 and The Mummy. The selections balance scares with emotional depth, featuring stories of love, redemption, and self-discovery within gothic and supernatural settings.Read more â
TechCrunch...The SEC closed its investigation into FiskerThe SEC closed its investigation into bankrupt EV startup Fisker in September 2025, one year after it began, with unclear details about the probe's scope or findings. The closure reflects a broader decline in SEC enforcement actions during President Trump's second term, with 2025 seeing the lowest enforcement actions in a decade and a 45% drop in monetary settlements compared to 2024.Read more â
CNET...RAM Shortage and Higher Laptop Prices Not Expected to End This Year (or Next)The AI boom is driving severe DRAM shortages as data centers prioritize high-bandwidth memory, causing PC memory prices to surge 80-90% in early 2026 with no relief expected until 2028. Major computer makers including Dell and Lenovo are raising prices by 15-20%, making it advisable for consumers to purchase laptops now and configure them with maximum RAM before costs escalate further.Read more â
Gizmodo...Ring Cancels Flock Safety Partnership Amid Backlash Over âCreepyâ Super Bowl AdAmazon-owned Ring canceled its planned partnership with surveillance company Flock Safety after backlash from a Super Bowl ad promoting AI-powered surveillance features. The controversy highlighted concerns about Ring's growing surveillance capabilities, facial recognition technology, and potential collaboration with law enforcement agencies, prompting 17% of online conversations about the ad to include boycott language and drawing criticism from Senator Ed Markey.Read more â
TechCrunch...India partners with Alibaba.com for export push despite past China tech bansIndia's government has partnered with Alibaba.com through the Startup India initiative to help domestic startups and small businesses access global export markets via the platform's B2B channels. This selective engagement with Chinese-linked technology represents a pragmatic distinction between restricting consumer apps and allowing participation in export-focused platforms that can boost India's MSME sector, which accounts for nearly half the country's exports.Read more â
Gizmodo...Worldâs Oldest Known Pieces of Sewn Clothing Sat in an Oregon Cave for 12,000 YearsArchaeologists in Oregon have identified two pieces of sewn animal hide dating back at least 12,000 years, making them the oldest known sewn clothing in the world. The discovery, along with bone needles and stone tools found at Cougar Mountain Cave, demonstrates that Indigenous Americans possessed sophisticated textile and fabrication skills during the Ice Age to protect themselves from harsh environmental conditions.Read more â
Engadget...Nintendoâs Virtual Boy accessory lets you play VR Mario and Zelda on Switch 2Nintendo is releasing a Virtual Boy accessory for Switch and Switch 2 that enables VR gameplay of four classic titles including Super Mario Odyssey and Zelda: Breath of the Wild, available in both cardboard ($25) and hardware ($100) versions starting February 17. The accessory provides the only way for Switch 2 owners to experience VR versions of these games, though the cardboard version is recommended for better head movement flexibility compared to the stand-mounted hardware variant.Read more â
TechCrunch...Anthropicâs Super Bowl ads mocking AI with ads helped push Claudeâs app into the top 10Anthropic's Super Bowl advertising campaign featuring darkly comedic scenarios drove significant growth for its Claude AI chatbot app, which climbed to No. 7 on the U.S. App Store following the ads. The campaign, combined with the release of Claude's new Opus 4.6 model and ChatGPT's introduction of ads to free users, resulted in a 32% increase in U.S. downloads, with Claude reaching its highest ranking to date and surpassing its initial mobile launch performance.Read more â
The Verge...Whatâs behind the mass exodus at xAI?xAI is experiencing significant departures, losing half of its original cofounders and multiple staff members following a merger with SpaceX and Elon Musk's reorganization. Former employees cite concerns about the company's focus on unfiltered NSFW content, dismantled safety practices, lack of innovation compared to competitors, and a leadership culture that prioritizes rapid production over safety review.Read more â
Gizmodo...Now We Know When Prime Video Is Bringing âGood Omensâ to Its EndPrime Video announced a May 13 release date for Good Omens season three, a 90-minute special that was scaled back from a full season following sexual misconduct allegations against showrunner Neil Gaiman in September 2024. The announcement comes as Gaiman has stepped back from the project, leaving fans with mixed reactions about whether to support the release given the controversy surrounding its creator.Read more â
The Verge...Can Democrats post their way to midterm victories?Democrats have relaunched the @KamalaHQ social media accounts as 'Headquarters,' a progressive news and commentary platform aimed at countering right-wing digital dominance. The effort leverages millions of existing followers to distribute progressive content across multiple platforms while building a talent pipeline for digital-first Democratic strategists.Read more â
Engadget...The best power banks and portable chargers for every device in 2026This comprehensive guide reviews the best portable power banks for 2026, covering key considerations like battery type, capacity measured in milliamp hours, wireless charging standards like Qi2, and port specifications. The article explains how to choose the right power bank based on your needsâfrom small 5,000mAh banks for basic phone charging to larger 25,000mAh+ models for laptopsâand addresses practical concerns like TSA regulations for air travel and actual charging efficiency rates around 60 percent.Read more â
The Verge...Trump Mobileâs origins lie with a Mexican middleweight boxerTrump Mobile, an MVNO carrier, is launching a branded T1 Phone manufactured in Miami with final assembly. The company is operated by Liberty Mobile executives who previously used the same business model with boxer Canelo Ălvarez's mobile service, which ultimately ceased operations.Read more â
Engadget...ExpressVPN deal: Two-year plans are up to 81 percent off right nowExpressVPN is offering significant discounts on two-year plans with up to 81 percent off, with the Basic tier at $68 and Advanced tier at $88, plus four additional free months. The service remains a top-rated VPN option known for fast speeds, ease of use, and global server availability, though this promotional pricing temporarily addresses the service's historically high cost.Read more â
TechCrunch...Roku to launch streaming bundles as part of its efforts to continue growing its profitabilityRoku reported strong Q4 2025 earnings with $1.4 billion in revenue and returned to profitability, posting $80.5 million in net income. The company is expanding its strategy by launching streaming bundles in 2026, extending its ad-free Howdy service to multiple platforms, and partnering with premium services like HBO Max to drive subscriber growth amid rising competition.Read more â
The Verge...Whatâs in the Epstein files? For Tiktokers, a content gold mineTikTok creators are massively engaging with released Epstein files, generating millions of views through speculation and digital investigation despite heavy redactions and limited journalistic standards. The viral content reflects both genuine outrage at institutional failures and risks of conspiracy theories, misidentification, victim retraumatization, and engagement-driven content that may not translate to actual legal accountability.Read more â
TechCrunch...A Stanford grad student created an algorithm to help his classmates find love; now, Date Drop is the basis of his new startupStanford graduate student Henry Weng has launched Date Drop, a matching service that pairs students with compatible dates based on questionnaires, achieving a 10x higher conversion rate to actual dates compared to traditional dating apps. The service has expanded to over 15 universities and evolved into The Relationship Company, a public benefit corporation that has raised several million dollars from prominent investors and plans to facilitate broader relationship-matching across friendships, professional connections, and community.Read more â
The Verge...iRobot's Roombas have a new Chinese owner, but it says your data will remain in the USiRobot has created a new US-based subsidiary called iRobot Safe following its acquisition by China-based Picea Robotics, ensuring US consumer data remains protected and separately managed. The subsidiary operates independently with its own US board, CEO, and security officer, mirroring similar arrangements like TikTok's compliance structure, while iRobot's operations continue from its Massachusetts headquarters under private Chinese ownership.Read more â
CNET...Days After Its Super Bowl Ad, Ring Cancels Flock Partnership Amid Surveillance ConcernsAmazon's Ring canceled a partnership with surveillance company Flock Safety following backlash over the company's law enforcement connections, highlighted by a Super Bowl advertisement for a dog-finding feature that drew scrutiny to Ring's privacy practices. The cancellation reflects growing concerns about smart home devices sharing data with law enforcement, though Ring continues other partnerships like Axon and maintains its Community Alerts program for police requests.Read more â
CNET...Meta's Smart Glasses Could Get Face Tracking Soon. That Worries MeMeta is planning to introduce facial recognition capabilities into its smart glasses, with an internal memo suggesting the company may launch this controversial feature during a politically chaotic period to avoid regulatory scrutiny. The technology raises significant privacy and surveillance concerns, though it could provide benefits for vision-impaired users if properly regulated with clear consent protocols and limits on data sharing.Read more â
Gizmodo...White House Withholds Funding for NASA Science Missions Despite Recent Budget BillThe OMB has instructed NASA to temporarily pause funding commitments for over 15 science missions, including the Chandra X-Ray Observatory, despite Congress restoring NASA's 2026 budget to $24.4 billion in January. The freeze is intended to last 10 business days pending OMB guidelines, affecting missions that study Earth's climate, Venus, and potentially habitable exoplanets.Read more â
CNET...Samsung Galaxy Unpacked 2026: Launch Date Revealed for Rumored S26 LineupSamsung has announced Samsung Unpacked for February 25, 2026, to reveal the Galaxy S26 flagship smartphone series. The S26 lineup is expected to include standard, Plus, and Ultra models with upgraded processors, cameras, and new AI features including a privacy shield that blocks display content from side angles.Read more â
TechCrunch...Elon Musk suggests spate of xAI exits have been push, not pullxAI is experiencing significant departures with six of its original twelve co-founders leaving the company, including two additional co-founders who exited this week. CEO Elon Musk framed the exits as necessary reorganization for scaling, though the rapid departures and several engineers starting new ventures together suggest underlying tensions in the competitive AI talent market.Read more â
TechCrunch...Elon Musk suggests spate of xAI exits have been push, not pullxAI experienced a significant organizational restructuring that resulted in six of its original twelve co-founders departing, along with at least eleven engineers, as Elon Musk repositioned the company for growth. Musk framed the exits as necessary organizational evolution, though several departing engineers are launching competing ventures, suggesting potential underlying tensions in the rapidly scaling AI company.Read more â
The Verge...Ring's adorable surveillance hellscapeThe Vergecast discusses Ring's Super Bowl ad and its implications for privacy through ubiquitous surveillance, alongside broader concerns about AI industry instability with key safety leaders departing OpenAI and Anthropic. The episode examines tensions between security camera benefits and privacy risks, plus emerging concerns about AI chatbot advertising and data collection.Read more â
Engadget...Pick up Apple's iPhone Air MagSafe battery pack while it's down to a record-low priceApple's iPhone Air MagSafe battery pack is on sale for $79, down from $99. The slim 7.5mm accessory provides 65 percent additional charge to the iPhone Air and can also wirelessly charge AirPods Pro 3, making it a practical companion for extended use without adding significant bulk.Read more â
Gizmodo...âHome Alone-Inspiredâ Drug Dealer Who Rigged House With Booby Traps Gets 7 Years in PrisonIan Claughton, a drug dealer from northern England, was sentenced to seven years in prison for operating cannabis growhouses protected by elaborate homemade booby traps inspired by the film Home Alone, including fishing wire connected to explosives, mantraps, and improvised firearms. Police required a three-day multi-agency operation involving Army bomb squad experts to safely disarm the dangerous devices and secure evidence of his illegal drug operation.Read more â
CNET...A Cheap Soil Sensor Saved My Fragile Houseplants. Here's HowA gardener used an inexpensive capacitive soil moisture sensor to develop data-driven watering schedules for houseplants, eliminating guesswork and inconsistency. After tracking moisture levels over several weeks, the sensor-based approach resulted in healthier plants, new growth on a struggling orchid, and increased confidence in plant care.Read more â
Gizmodo...The Return of the âRazor Crestâ in âMandalorian and Groguâ Is Even Sillier Than We ThoughtThe Mandalorian and Grogu film features Din Djarin piloting a new Razor Crest starship model identical to his destroyed original, distinguished only by yellow paint markings. Director Jon Favreau confirmed the ship is the same model rather than the original reforged, marking an unusual narrative choice given Din's character evolution in recent Star Wars content.Read more â
The Verge...The Vergeâs 2026 Valentineâs Day gift guide (for her)This article is a curated gift guide featuring various products across categories including consumer electronics, home goods, and accessories, with price points ranging from $6 to $549. The guide highlights items designed for Valentine's Day gifting, spanning smart home devices, wellness products, tech gadgets, and lifestyle items.Read more â
The Verge...âWellnessâ feels like itâs losing all meaning in health techThis is Optimizer, a weekly newsletter sent every Friday from Verge senior reviewer Victoria Song that dissects and discusses the latest gizmos and potions that swear they're going to change your life. Opt in for Optimizer here. For the past week, I've been thinking about the fact that Oura has gone to Washington. The Oura […]Read more â
Gizmodo...Thereâs One, and Only One, Reason To Get Excited for the Samsung Galaxy S26Samsung's Galaxy S26 Ultra is expected to feature a built-in Privacy Display that darkens or blacks out the screen when viewed from different angles, protecting against unwanted screen peeking. The feature can be selectively applied to notifications, apps, or enabled automatically in crowded spaces, representing Samsung's implementation of display technology first introduced as Flex Magic Pixel at MWC 2024.Read more â
TechCrunch...Dutch phone giant Odido says millions of customers affected by data breachDutch telecom company Odido suffered a data breach affecting 6.2 million customers, with hackers accessing personal information including names, phone numbers, addresses, dates of birth, bank account numbers, and government ID details. The breach represents a significant security incident in the telecom sector, though call records, location data, and billing information were not compromised.Read more â
Engadget...Good Luck, Have Fun, Don't Die rails against AI in styleGood Luck, Have Fun, Don't Die is a satirical sci-fi film where a time traveler recruits a ragtag crew to prevent the birth of a humanity-ending AI, blending Groundhog Day and 12 Monkeys tropes with social commentary on tech industry overreach. The film uses absurdist scenarios and visual spectacle to critique technological encroachment and capitalism, though it falls short of classic sci-fi masterpieces in both narrative depth and conceptual terror.Read more â
TechCrunch...Amazonâs Ring cancels partnership with Flock, a network of AI cameras used by ICE, feds, and policeRing and Flock Safety have terminated their partnership that would have enabled doorbell camera users to share footage with law enforcement agencies, citing resource constraints. The cancellation follows controversy over AI surveillance technology and facial recognition features, amid growing public concerns about mass surveillance and the potential for law enforcement misuse.Read more â
The Verge...Metaâs Quest 3S is $50 off, and includes Batman: Arkham Shadow for freeMeta Quest 3S is available at Walmart for $249 with a free copy of Batman: Arkham Shadow, matching Black Friday pricing and offering strong entry-level VR gaming capabilities. The headset features the same processor as the pricier Quest 3, supports streaming Xbox games and PC VR titles, and includes full-color passthrough and Touch Plus controllers.Read more â
Engadget...Pick up this Samsung microSD Express card while it's on sale for $40 offSamsung's 512GB P9 microSD Express card is available at 33% off for $80, offering significantly faster storage expansion for Nintendo Switch 2 with 800MB/s transfer speeds. The card is compatible with multiple devices including Steam Deck and gaming consoles that support the microSD Express format.Read more â
The Verge...ICE moves out to the suburbsThis article documents ICE enforcement operations in Minnesota suburbs and the grassroots resistance networks that have emerged in response. Community members conduct surveillance, organize rapid response teams, and provide mutual aid to immigrant families facing deportation threats, with effectiveness varying significantly between densely organized urban areas and more isolated suburban communities.Read more â
The Verge...Meta reportedly wants to add face recognition to smart glasses while privacy advocates are distractedMeta is planning to introduce facial recognition technology to its Ray-Ban smart glasses that would identify people connected to the wearer through Meta platforms like Instagram. The company strategically timed the feature's launch during a period when critics' resources are focused on other concerns, raising privacy and security concerns despite Meta's history of discontinuing similar facial recognition features in 2021.Read more â
TechCrunch...Cohereâs $240M year sets stage for IPOCanadian AI startup Cohere surpassed its $200 million annual recurring revenue target in 2025, achieving $240 million with over 50% quarter-over-quarter growth. The company's efficient Command family of generative AI models, designed for cost-effective GPU deployment, positions it well for enterprise adoption as it considers an IPO in 2026.Read more â
Gizmodo...âTeenage Mutant Ninja Turtlesâ and âG.I. Joeâ Are Combining Into the Action Figures of Your â80s Fever Dreams (Exclusive)Playmates is releasing a Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles x G.I. Joe crossover toy line this summer, reimagining the turtles and their allies as classic G.I. Joe characters before handing over the TMNT license to Mattel in 2027. The collection includes action figures, vehicles with functioning accessories, and retro-themed packaging celebrating both iconic 1980s toy franchises.Read more â
TechCrunch...Meta plans to add facial recognition to its smart glasses, report claimsMeta plans to launch facial recognition on its smart glasses this year through a feature called 'Name Tag' that would identify people and provide information via its AI assistant. The company previously shelved the feature due to technical and ethical concerns, but has revived plans following the success of its Ray-Ban smart glasses and what it views as a favorable political environment.Read more â
Engadget...The latest 45W Anker Nano charger with smart display is $10 off right nowAnker has launched an updated Nano Charger at CES 2026 featuring a 45W capacity with an integrated smart display that monitors power flow, temperature, and charging status in real-time. The charger automatically adjusts metrics based on the connected device to optimize battery lifespan and is compatible with iPhone, Apple Watch, AirPods, Samsung devices, and other products, priced at $30.Read more â
Engadget...Meta is reportedly working to bring facial recognition to its smart glassesMeta plans to introduce facial recognition technology called 'Name Tag' to its Ray-Ban and Oakley smart glasses in 2026, enabling wearers to identify people and retrieve information about them using AI. The company is reportedly leveraging current political uncertainty to advance the project despite significant privacy and ethical concerns that previously led Meta to shelve similar features.Read more â
The Verge...Thereâs a tiny digital camera inside these retro 35mm film rollsThe OPT100 Neo Film is a retro-inspired 1-megapixel digital camera designed to resemble a 35mm film roll, priced at approximately $40 and currently available only in Japan. Despite poor specifications including minimal resolution, no viewfinder, and awkward controls, the device capitalizes on the trend of novelty cameras with aesthetic appeal over functionality.Read more â
Engadget...Apple's first-gen AirTags are on sale for $64 for a four-packApple AirTags are currently available at a record-low price of $64 for a four-pack, representing a 35 percent discount and bringing individual units to approximately $16 each. The first-generation Bluetooth trackers integrate seamlessly with Apple's Find My network, allowing users to locate missing items through sound alerts and Precision Finding technology on their iPhones.Read more â
CNET...Presidents Day Sales Are Upon Us and We're Talking About the Best Ones Right HerePresidents Day 2026 marks a major retail sale event featuring significant discounts on tech products and appliances. CNET is highlighting top deals across categories including wearables, VR headsets, smartphones, audio devices, TVs, and laptops, with savings ranging from $40 to $130 on popular brands like Apple, Meta, and Samsung.Read more â
CNET...Presidents Day Sales Are Upon Us and We're Talking About the Best Ones Right HerePresidents Day 2026 marks the first major retail sale event of the year, with significant discounts across tech, home goods, and appliances. Major retailers are offering deep price cuts on popular items including the Apple Watch Series 11, Meta Quest 3S, Samsung Galaxy Ring, and various consumer electronics, with savings ranging from $40 to $130 per item.Read more â
Gizmodo...The Russo Brothers Say Steve Rogers Is Key to âAvengers: DoomsdayâThis article covers multiple entertainment industry updates including cast expansions for Legendary's live-action Gundam film, confirmation of continued Child's Play projects following the Chucky TV show's cancellation, and details on upcoming horror and sci-fi film productions. Key announcements include the Russo Brothers' vision for Avengers: Doomsday with a darker tone for Doctor Doom, and various new film projects in development across horror, thriller, and sci-fi genres.Read more â
TechCrunch...Score, the dating app for people with good credit, is backLuke Bailey is relaunching Score, a dating app that uses credit scores as a compatibility metric, with a more inclusive two-tier model featuring basic access for all users and verified premium features for those who pass credit verification. The app aims to address financial compatibility in relationships, which Bailey argues is a critical but underexplored factor in relationship stability, backed by user demand and academic interest from the app's previous six-month run that attracted 50,000 users.Read more â
Engadget...The ridiculously tiny Kodak Charmera captured our hearts (and lots of shoddy pictures)The Kodak Charmera is a $30 toy camera that has become surprisingly popular despite producing low-resolution 1.6-megapixel photos equivalent to 2000s flip phones. The device appeals to consumers seeking nostalgic, simpler technology that prioritizes fun and casual documentation over image quality, becoming a conversation starter that encourages reduced smartphone usage.Read more â
CNET...This Cult Favorite Dark Comedy Is Rarely on Streaming, but It Just Arrived on Pluto TVHarold and Maude, a cult classic 1970s dark comedy directed by Hal Ashby, explores an unconventional romance between a wealthy suicidal young man and an elderly woman living in a boxcar. The film, now available free on Pluto TV and Kanopy, exemplifies the creative boldness of the Hollywood Renaissance era and celebrates living life on one's own terms despite societal judgment.Read more â
CNET...Nerf's New Rebel Ops Blaster Line Lets You Choose Your Role for BattleNerf launched its new Rebel Ops blaster line at New York Toy Fair, featuring three models designed for different playstyles: the Doom Cannon for offense, the Deadeye for stealth, and the Ammohawk for defense. Priced from $10 to $45, all three blasters will be available in July and require no batteries.Read more â
CNET...Netflix's 28 Best Sci-Fi TV Shows to Stream Right NowNetflix offers a diverse collection of science fiction shows beyond mainstream titles like Black Mirror and Stranger Things, including dystopian series such as 3 Body Problem, superhero adventures like The Umbrella Academy, and genre-bending programs like The OA and Maniac. The platform's sci-fi library encompasses multiple subgenres and formats, providing extensive content for different viewer preferences.Read more â
Gizmodo...This Retro âWonder Manâ Trailer Is So Fun, We Wish It Was a Real MovieMarvel Studios released a retro-style 1980s trailer for the fictional Wonder Man movie featured in the Disney+ series Wonder Man, capturing nostalgic charm and clever parodies of classic superhero memorabilia. The trailer showcases the in-universe film that serves as a central plot element in the series' exploration of Hollywood's superhero industry.Read more â
The Verge...The hottest indie game is about breeding cats with ADHD and dyslexiaMewgenics, an indie game about cat breeding and genetics that launched in February 2026, has become an unexpected commercial success, selling over 500,000 units within days. The game features over 100 inheritable disorders including autism, which the developer intentionally designed to highlight strengths rather than limitations, resonating strongly with players who appreciate the nuanced representation. The decade-long development project reflects creator Edmund McMillen's personal experiences with autism in his family and his evolving perspective on themes of inheritance, nurture, and legacy.Read more â
The Verge...HP's laptop subscriptions are a great deal â for HPHP's laptop subscription service, starting at $34.99-$129.99 monthly, presents poor financial value compared to purchasing laptops outright, with rental costs exceeding retail prices within 14-21 months while users never gain ownership. The program includes harsh penalties for early cancellation, potential credit damage for non-payment, and remote device locking by HP, making it particularly predatory for lower-income consumers despite its low entry barrier.Read more â
Engadget...Meta really wants you to believe social media addiction is 'not a real thing'Meta faces multiple lawsuits alleging its platforms facilitate child exploitation and mental health harms through addictive design features. The company disputes that social media addiction exists, citing its absence from the DSM-5-TR diagnostic manual, though mental health experts and the American Psychiatric Association counter that the lack of formal classification does not negate the scientific evidence of addiction-like behaviors and documented harm.Read more â
Engadget...Why does my VPN keep disconnecting?This article provides eight troubleshooting steps to resolve VPN disconnection issues, ranging from simple fixes like reducing the number of connected devices to complex solutions like updating software and configuring firewalls. The guide emphasizes the importance of addressing VPN drops promptly, especially when using a kill switch, to prevent exposure of real identity and location online.Read more â
Engadget...DoorDashers are getting paid to close Waymo's self-driving car doorsWaymo is running a pilot program in Atlanta that pays DoorDash drivers to close the doors of its self-driving vehicles when passengers accidentally leave them open. The program, which started earlier this year, offers drivers a guaranteed fee of $6.25 plus $5 for verification, and helps enhance fleet efficiency since Waymo's vehicles cannot operate with doors left ajar.Read more â
Engadget...The Morning After: Meta turned Threads algorithm complaints into an official featureThreads has introduced an official "Dear algo" feature allowing users to control their recommendation algorithm by writing posts that specify topics they want to see more or less of, now available in the US, UK, Australia, and New Zealand. This addresses long-standing user complaints about the platform's algorithm since its 2023 launch and enables users to retweeted others' preference posts to customize their feeds.Read more â
CNET...Stream Every Winter Olympic Event With a VPN. Here's HowThe 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan and Cortina offer limited free streaming options in the US, primarily through NBC's free broadcasts and Peacock subscription. International viewers can use VPNs to access free Olympic streams from other countries' broadcasters, though paid VPN services are recommended over free options for reliable streaming performance.Read more â
CNET...T-Mobile vs. Verizon: Which Major Phone Carrier Is Best?This article compares T-Mobile and Verizon's postpaid and prepaid plans, highlighting differences in pricing, network quality, and included perks such as streaming services and hotspot data. T-Mobile emerges as the better overall value with lower single-line prices, more generous hotspot allowances, and included streaming services, while Verizon offers greater flexibility in selecting individual perks and recent price cuts.Read more â
Gizmodo...Sony Says âKPop Demon Huntersâ Was a Hit Specifically Because It Was on NetflixSony Pictures Animation confirmed that KPop Demon Hunters became Netflix's most popular movie ever due to the streaming platform's unique release strategy and engagement metrics, which allowed the film to build momentum over time in ways theatrical releases cannot. The company emphasized that Netflix's data checkpoints and ability to monitor performance enabled the film's unprecedented success, making it clear that streaming was essential to achieving such massive viewership numbers.Read more â
CNET...'AirTag 2' vs. 'AirTag 1': How Apple's New Tiny Tracker Improves on the OriginalApple has released a second-generation AirTag with upgraded Ultra Wideband and Bluetooth chips, delivering 1.5x better detection range for Precision Finding and improved compatibility with Apple Watch Series 9 and later. The device maintains the same $29/$99 pricing and physical design as the original, but features a louder speaker, extended range capabilities, and enhanced privacy features for location tracking.Read more â
CNET...You Can Binge All the Hallmark Romance Your Heart Desires for Free. Here's HowHoopla, a free digital entertainment platform available through public libraries, now offers Hallmark Channel's complete collection via its Hallmark Plus BingePass feature, allowing users to borrow premium content for seven days after Peacock's contract with Hallmark ended in May 2025. Users can access ad-free Hallmark movies and shows by signing up with a valid library card, with alternative options available through Pluto TV's Hallmark channel.Read more â
CNET...How to Watch Curling Events at the 2026 Winter OlympicsIt's everyone's favorite slow-moving, rock-based sport.Read more â
CNET...Are Front-Load Washing Machines Really Cheaper to Run? I Did the Math to Find OutCNET analyzed over 15,000 data points to calculate the payback period for efficient front-load washers versus budget-friendly top-load washers, finding that front-loaders break even in approximately 6.5 years through energy and water savings. The analysis reveals that lower water consumption is the primary driver of savings, as front-loaders use significantly less water and require less energy for heating, making them better long-term investments despite higher upfront costs.Read more â
Gizmodo...Scientists Discover Time Crystals You Can Holdâand They LevitatePhysicists at NYU have created a macroscopic time crystal using levitating styrofoam beads suspended in sound waves, marking a significant advance beyond previous microscopic implementations. This time crystal violates Newtonian physics by allowing particles to self-organize and harvest energy from sound waves without external control, potentially serving as a foundational model for understanding spontaneous pattern emergence in complex systems ranging from biological pacemakers to financial markets.Read more â
Engadget...There's a new John Wick game on the wayLionsgate and Saber Interactive are developing a new AAA John Wick video game featuring Keanu Reeves reprising his iconic role through voice and likeness for PS5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC. The single-player third-person action game will showcase John Wick's signature gun-fu combat style alongside driving sequences and cinematic storytelling, with an original narrative exploring a significant period in the character's life.Read more â
CNET...Tired (Literally) of Getting Up to Pee in the Middle of the Night? Try These 5 TricksThis article explains nocturia, a medical condition causing multiple nighttime bathroom trips affecting one in three adults over 30. It provides five practical habits to reduce nighttime urination including monitoring caffeine intake, pelvic floor therapy, wearing compression socks, limiting fluids before bed, and taking short afternoon naps, while noting when medical consultation is necessary.Read more â
Engadget...The best iPhone accessories for 2026Engadget's 2026 guide reviews top iPhone accessories including MagSafe chargers, cases, power banks, and specialized gear like camera grips and car mounts. The article evaluates products that enhance iPhone functionality through protection, charging, photography, and mounting solutions, with emphasis on MagSafe technology's versatility across devices.Read more â
TechCrunch...Fusion startup Helion hits blistering temps as it races toward 2028 deadlineHelion Energy achieved a major milestone by reaching 150 million degrees Celsius in its Polaris prototype reactor using deuterium-tritium fuel, becoming the first fusion company to operate with this fuel mixture. The company, which has a 2028 power delivery contract with Microsoft, is pursuing a unique direct electricity generation approach using field-reversed configuration and plans to transition to deuterium-helium-3 fuel for improved efficiency.Read more â
Engadget...Marvel TĆkon: Fighting Souls lands on PS5 and PC August 6 with X-Men in towMarvel TĆkon: Fighting Souls, a tag-based fighting game featuring Marvel superheroes, will launch on August 6, 2026 for PS5 and PC. The game includes characters from the X-Men roster with distinct fighting styles and will feature an Episode Mode blending manga and American comic storytelling.Read more â
Engadget...Death Stranding 2 for PC arrives on March 19Death Stranding 2: On the Beach is coming to PC on March 19, developed with Nixxes Software. The PC version features enhanced graphics with support for NVIDIA, AMD, and Intel upscalers, 4K gaming, ultrawide monitors, and advanced audio options including Dolby Atmos and DTS.Read more â
CNET...We Monitored Our Air Quality in 3 Locations and Learned These 9 LessonsCNET experts monitored indoor air quality across the US and discovered that humidity increases PM2.5 particle detection, gas stoves and ovens release harmful VOCs and carbon dioxide, and poor ventilation significantly impacts sleep quality. Additional sources of indoor air pollution include leaf blowers outside, mattress off-gassing, cleaning products, and certain cookware, with air purifiers and proper ventilation being key mitigation strategies.Read more â
Engadget...A Neva prequel is arriving next weekSony announced Neva: Prologue, a DLC prequel to Nomada Studio's award-winning puzzle platformer Neva, which reveals how protagonist Alba meets her wolf companion. The DLC introduces new gameplay mechanics, three additional locations, unique enemies, and boss encounters, designed to be played after the main game's completion.Read more â
Engadget...The 7 best air fryers for 2026, tested and reviewedAir fryers have become mainstream kitchen appliances that use convection heating to crisp food with minimal oil, offering faster cooking and energy efficiency compared to traditional ovens. The market now includes diverse models ranging from compact pod-style units to larger convection ovens, each with distinct advantages for different kitchen spaces and cooking needs.Read more â
The Verge...Tenwaysâ compact e-bike twists and folds to go flatThe CGO Compact is an electric bike introduced by a emerging European manufacturer. The model represents the company's entry into the competitive e-bike market with a focus on compact design.Read more â
TechCrunch...Waymo is asking DoorDash drivers to shut the doors of its self-driving carsWaymo's autonomous vehicles operating in six cities face a quirky operational challenge: when passengers accidentally leave doors open, the vehicles cannot continue operating, forcing Waymo to pay gig workers through DoorDash and other services to manually close the doors. The company has confirmed this pilot program in Atlanta offers drivers $6.25 to $11.25 per door closure, with future vehicles expected to have automated door systems.Read more â
Engadget...Ring calls off partnership with police surveillance provider Flock SafetyRing has canceled its partnership with Flock Safety, a surveillance company that would have allowed law enforcement to request doorbell camera footage through Ring's Community Requests feature. The decision came after backlash over a Super Bowl ad promoting the Search Party feature, with Ring citing resource constraints. The cancellation represents a retreat from police collaboration, as no customer footage was ever shared under the partnership.Read more â
CNET...God of War Original Trilogy Remakes Are Coming, and a New 2D Platformer Is Out TodaySony announced remakes of the original God of War trilogy currently in early development by Santa Monica Studio, alongside a new 2D action platformer called God of War: Sons of Sparta developed by Mega Cat Studios. The platformer, available now on PlayStation Store for $30-$40, features a younger Kratos training as a Spartan warrior with customizable spear and shield mechanics alongside divine artifacts called Gifts of Olympus.Read more â
CNET...Metal Gear Solid 4 Gets Its First Remaster Nearly Two Decades After It Came OutSony announced Metal Gear Solid Master Collection Vol. 2, a remaster collection arriving August 27 for PS5 that includes Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots and Metal Gear Solid: Peace Walker with improved resolution and frame rates. This marks the first time MGS4, originally released for PS3 in 2008, has been brought to next-generation consoles.Read more â
TechCrunch...For $1 million, you can pay Bryan Johnson (or BryanAI?) to teach you how to live longerBryan Johnson, a fintech founder turned longevity guru, is offering an exclusive $1 million per year program called 'Immortals' that claims to reverse aging through personalized protocols, testing, and AI-assisted coaching. The article critiques the extreme and unattainable nature of premium longevity services targeting ultra-wealthy individuals, noting that similar startups like Biograph and Fountain Life charge $15,000-$21,500 annually for preventative health programs.Read more â
Engadget...God of War is getting a remake trilogy, and a new retro-inspired action game is out todaySony Santa Monica Studio announced a remake of the original God of War trilogy from PS2 and PS3 for modern platforms, currently in early development with no release timeline. Additionally, Mega Cat Studios released God of War Sons of Sparta, a 2D action platformer spin-off that serves as canon prequel content featuring a young Kratos.Read more â
Engadget...Silent Hill: Townfall takes the series' trademark fog to an eerie coastal communityKonami announced Silent Hill: Townfall, a new psychological horror game set on a foggy island where players experience the series' signature gameplay in first-person perspective for the first time. The game, developed by Screen Burn Interactive, follows protagonist Simon Ordell as he navigates supernatural horrors and psychological challenges on an abandoned island and is scheduled for PlayStation 5 release in 2026.Read more â
The Verge...A surprise God of War prequel is out on the PS5 right nowTo close out its February 2026 State of Play presentation, Sony revealed God of War Sons of Sparta, a new prequel 2D side scroller in the God of War franchise, and announced that it's out right now on PlayStation 5. "God of War Sons of Sparta is a 2D action platformer with a canon story […]Read more â
Gizmodo...Saturnâs Rings Came From a Two-Moon Collision About 100 Million Years Ago, Study SaysNew research from the SETI Institute proposes that Saturn's unusually young rings and Titan's odd orbit resulted from an ancient collision between two proto-moons approximately 100 million years ago. Computer simulations suggest a merger between Proto-Titan and Proto-Hyperion could explain the observed characteristics of Saturn's moon system and ring formation through subsequent gravitational destabilization.Read more â
TechCrunch...Amid disappointing earnings, Pinterest claims it sees more searches than ChatGPTPinterest CEO Bill Ready defended the platform's performance by comparing its 80 billion monthly searches to ChatGPT's 75 billion, emphasizing that over half of Pinterest searches are commercial in nature. Despite user growth exceeding expectations at 619 million monthly active users, the company missed fourth-quarter earnings targets due to advertiser pullback in Europe and furniture tariffs, with shares dropping 20% in after-hours trading.Read more â
Engadget...The PS Plus Game Catalog additions for February include Marvelâs Spider-Man 2Marvel's Spider-Man 2 is joining PlayStation Plus Game Catalog on February 17, allowing Extra and Premium subscribers to play the acclaimed 2023 sequel. The game features dual playable characters with unique skill trees, expanded New York exploration, and a wingsuit mechanic, completing the Spider-Man series on the service ahead of the upcoming Wolverine game.Read more â
TechCrunch...IBMÂ will hire your entry-level talent in the age of AIIBM plans to triple entry-level hiring in the U.S. in 2026, shifting focus from AI-automatable roles like coding toward customer-facing positions. The strategy addresses AI displacement concerns by preparing junior talent for advanced roles while maintaining a pipeline for experienced positions.Read more â
TechCrunch...Rivian was saved by software in 2025Rivian's 2025 revenue grew 8% to $5.38 billion, driven primarily by a threefold increase in software and services revenue to $1.55 billion from a Volkswagen Group joint venture worth up to $5.8 billion. While automotive revenue declined 15% due to lower regulatory credits and vehicle deliveries, the company is banking on its upcoming R2 SUV launch by June 2026 to drive profitability improvements and achieve 62,000-67,000 vehicle deliveries in 2026.Read more â
Engadget...The next Metal Gear Solid remaster collection arrives this summerKonami announced Metal Gear Solid: Master Collection Volume Two, arriving August 27, featuring Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots, Metal Gear Solid: Peace Walker HD remaster, and bonus content including Metal Gear: Ghost Babel. This marks the first official release of MGS4 on a platform other than PlayStation 3, overcoming decades of technical limitations tied to the console's Cell architecture.Read more â
CNET...Waymo Begins Fully Autonomous Operations With 6th-Generation TechWaymo is deploying its sixth-generation self-driving technology for autonomous employee rides in San Francisco Bay Area and Los Angeles, representing a significant step toward commercial robotaxi services. The new technology improves cost efficiency and weather resilience, featuring advanced vision systems with integrated cleaning mechanisms and enhanced lidar/radar capabilities that function in extreme conditions.Read more â
Gizmodo...Your First Look at Hasbroâs âMandalorian and Groguâ Figures Is Here (Exclusive)Hasbro is launching a new line of Star Wars action figures for the upcoming Mandalorian and Grogu film, including a deluxe figure set featuring Din Djarin and Grogu with various accessories, along with Imperial Remnant troops and New Republic characters. Pre-orders begin February 13, with figures releasing in spring ahead of the film's May 22 theatrical debut.Read more â
The Verge...Ring cancels its partnership with Flock Safety after surveillance backlashFollowing intense backlash to its partnership with Flock Safety, a surveillance technology company that works with law enforcement agencies, Ring has announced it is canceling the integration. In a statement published on Ring's blog and provided to The Verge ahead of publication, the company said: "Following a comprehensive review, we determined the planned Flock Safety […]Read more â
CNET...YouTube Music Adds AI-Generated PlaylistsGoogle has launched AI-generated playlists for YouTube Music premium subscribers on iOS and Android, powered by its Gemini AI. Users can create custom playlists by describing their desired music, enabling more personalized music discovery similar to Spotify's recently introduced feature.Read more â
Engadget...The first Control Resonant gameplay trailer shows Dylan defying physics in a sideways NYCControl Resonant, the upcoming sequel to Remedy's supernatural action game, features new protagonist Dylan Faden exploring a physics-defying version of New York City instead of the original Bureau of Control setting. The game introduces a shapeshifting melee weapon called the Aberrant and gravity-manipulation powers that allow players to redefine which surfaces function as ground, with a planned 2026 release.Read more â
Engadget...Mina the Hollower resurfaces with a spring 2026 release windowSony announced an update on Mina the Hollower from Yacht Club Games during its State of Play stream, confirming a spring 2025 release after the game was delayed from its original Halloween deadline. A limited-time demo will launch on PlayStation 5 on February 13.Read more â
CNET...Best Wireless Earbuds of 2026This is a CNET guide on wireless earbuds, not a news article. It provides buying advice, reviews of various earbud models, testing methodology, and frequently asked questions to help consumers choose the right wireless earbuds based on budget, features, and use case.Read more â
Engadget...Kena: Scars of Kosmora is coming out later this yearKena: Scars of Kosmora, the sequel to the critically acclaimed PS5 launch title, showcases enhanced visuals and introduces new elemental combat mechanics alongside an expanded spirit companion system. The game releases on PlayStation 5 and PC in 2026, promising deeper strategic gameplay through elemental infusions and challenging boss encounters.Read more â
Engadget...Ghost of Yotei's multiplayer expansion arrives March 10Ghost of Yotei's free Legends multiplayer expansion launches next month, featuring cooperative gameplay for up to four players across four distinct classes with unique weapons and abilities. Players will tackle three mission types including survival challenges, story-driven campaigns, and fortress sieges against demonic versions of the Yotei Six, with additional content planned for April.Read more â
TechCrunch...Musk needed a new vision for SpaceX and xAI. He landed on Moonbase Alpha.Elon Musk outlined an ambitious vision for xAI involving building AI data centers in space and on the moon, using a mass driver to launch satellites into deep space as part of a long-term strategy to harness solar energy for massive-scale AI models. The plan represents a significant pivot from SpaceX's previous Mars colonization focus and serves as a recruitment and narrative tool to differentiate xAI from other AI laboratories.Read more â
Gizmodo...OpenAI President Defends Trump Donations, Refuses to Comment on ICEOpenAI president Greg Brockman donated $50 million to pro-Trump super PACs in 2025, citing the need for government support for AI amid negative public perception of the technology. When asked about federal agents killing two people in Minnesota, Brockman declined to comment directly and instead offered a vague statement about AI being a uniting technology.Read more â
CNET...NASA Drove Its Mars Rover Using AI for the First Time. Here's How It WentNASA's Jet Propulsion Lab successfully used Anthropic's Claude AI to plot navigation routes for the Perseverance rover on Mars for the first time, with the rover traveling nearly 1,500 feet across two December demonstrations without issues. This advancement demonstrates how AI can increase mission efficiency and reduce operator workload for distant space exploration, enabling rovers to cover greater distances and respond to challenging terrain more autonomously.Read more â
Gizmodo...NASA Puts 21-Year-Old Spacecraft on Pause to Keep It From Crashing Into EarthNASA has suspended science operations of the aging Neil Gehrels Swift Observatory to reduce atmospheric drag and slow its orbital decay before a planned rescue mission this summer. The 20-year-old space telescope, which faces a 50% chance of uncontrolled reentry by mid-2026 due to increased solar activity, will be boosted to a higher orbit by Katalyst Space Technologies' LINK spacecraft to extend its operational life.Read more â
Gizmodo...âScarletâ Is a Ravishing Vision Undercut by a Glib âHamletâ ReimaginingMamoru Hosoda's latest anime film Scarlet is a visually stunning Hamlet-meets-isekai hybrid featuring breathtaking animation and visceral action sequences set in a post-fantasy desert wasteland. However, the film struggles with its overly familiar premise and delivers its central message in a roundabout, self-conscious manner that undermines its thematic impact, with a bland supporting character that weakens the narrative momentum.Read more â
Gizmodo...This Tiny Comet Pulled Off a First-of-Its-Kind Spin FlipComet 41P/Tuttle-Giacobini-KresĂĄk experienced a dramatic reversal in its spin direction between April and December 2017, the first direct observation of spin reversal caused by outgassing torque from solar heating. This discovery suggests that small sub-kilometer comets may be destroyed by rapid rotation induced by uneven gas release, potentially explaining why fewer such comets are observed than astronomical models predict.Read more â
The Verge...PlayStation State of Play February 2026: all the news and trailersSony announced a PlayStation State of Play showcase scheduled for February 12th at 5PM ET, featuring over an hour of content including third-party, indie, and PlayStation Studios games. The event is expected to showcase upcoming titles such as Saros, Marvel's Wolverine, the Horizon Zero Dawn multiplayer spinoff, and Bungie's Marathon.Read more â
Gizmodo...Waymo Announces Its Next Generation of RobotaxisWaymo has deployed its sixth-generation autonomous driving system in new Ojai robotaxis built with more affordable components and improved sensors, enabling operation across diverse environments while reducing costs. The system marks a significant step in the company's expansion plans to scale production to tens of thousands of vehicles annually and operate in 20 additional cities globally, though the initiative faces federal regulatory scrutiny following incidents involving pedestrians and school buses.Read more â
Gizmodo...Researchers Jailbreak ChatGPT to Find Out Which State Has the Laziest PeopleResearchers jailbroken ChatGPT to reveal implicit biases in its training data, discovering it holds stereotypes about states like Mississippi being lazy and African nations being less smart or artistic. The findings expose how AI models perpetuate classist and racist biases that reflect and reinforce existing societal inequalities.Read more â
CNET...Waymo's Next-Gen Robotaxis Are Rolling Out. Everything to Know About the ServiceWaymo has launched its sixth-generation autonomous driving technology, featuring improved AI-powered vision systems, advanced lidar and radar sensors designed for extreme winter weather conditions, with significantly reduced costs. The company is expanding fully autonomous robotaxi operations across multiple U.S. cities and internationally, with safety data showing 88% fewer serious injury crashes and 78% fewer injury-causing crashes compared to human drivers.Read more â
CNET...Today's NYT Connections: Sports Edition Hints and Answers for Feb. 13, #508This article provides hints and answers for The New York Times Connections: Sports Edition puzzle game, categorizing word groups around poker hands, tennis movies, Walter Payton references, and sports teams located in world capitals. The puzzle is published by The Athletic and available through their app or online.Read more â
Gizmodo...âThe Last Sacrificeâ Explores the (Maybe?) Occult Crime That Inspired âThe Wicker ManâThe Last Sacrifice is a documentary directed by Rupert Russell that examines the 1945 murder of Charles Walton in rural Britain, exploring theories ranging from robbery to witchcraft while analyzing how the case influenced folk horror cinema of the 1960s and 70s. The film contrasts the unsolved historical crime with fictional narratives and period media coverage, revealing widespread public fascination with witchcraft and the occult during that era.Read more â
TechCrunch...Didero lands $30M to put manufacturing procurement on âagenticâ autopilotDidero, a procurement automation startup founded by Tim Spencer and Lorenz Pallhuber, raised $30 million in Series A funding to streamline global supply chain operations using generative AI. The platform functions as an agentic AI layer that automates procurement workflows by processing natural language communications from suppliers and executing necessary updates and tasks in existing ERP systems.Read more â
Gizmodo...After Two Years, the Apple Vision Pro Finally Has a YouTube AppApple Vision Pro users finally gained access to an official YouTube app, two years after the device's release, which was previously unavailable despite the ability to watch YouTube through third-party workarounds. The significant delay reflects the Vision Pro's limited market penetration and lack of commercial incentive for major services to develop native apps for the niche spatial computing device.Read more â
TechCrunch...Anthropic raises another $30 billion in series G, with a new value of $380 billionAnthropic closed a $30 billion Series G funding round, raising its valuation to $380 billion from the previous $183 billion. The round was led by GIC and Coatue with participation from major investors including D.E. Shaw Ventures, Founders Fund, and MGX, positioning the AI company to compete more aggressively with OpenAI in the enterprise market.Read more â
TechCrunch...YouTube finally launches a dedicated app for Apple Vision ProYouTube has launched a dedicated app for Apple Vision Pro after two years, offering features like offline downloads, spatial video support, and 8K playback on M5 models. The release comes as the headset faces declining sales and reduced user engagement, with major streaming competitors having offered native apps since launch.Read more â
Engadget...The best wireless earbuds for 2026This comprehensive guide reviews the best wireless earbuds available in 2026, examining key factors like active noise cancellation, battery life, comfort fit, and sound quality. The article provides detailed testing methodology and comparative analysis of popular models from brands including Sony, Beats, Bose, and Samsung to help consumers find earbuds matching their specific needs and priorities.Read more â
Gizmodo...âStarfleet Academyâ Decides Everyone Needs a Harsh LessonIn the Starfleet Academy episode 'Come, Let's Away,' cadets face their first dangerous training mission when a salvage operation on an abandoned starship is attacked by marauders, forcing Chancellor Ake to make moral compromises with a morally ambiguous ally. The episode delivers a dark turning point for the series by actually killing off a cadet character and leaving others critically injured, subverting typical Star Trek resolutions where good intentions ultimately prevail.Read more â
Engadget...EU reportedly opens another probe into Google's ads pricingThe European Commission has initiated a probe into Google's online advertising business for potential anticompetitive practices, including artificially inflating ad auction prices to harm advertisers. The investigation could result in fines up to 10 percent of Google's global annual sales, adding to existing penalties under the Digital Markets Act.Read more â
The Verge...In one swoop, Trump kills US greenhouse gas regulationsThe EPA repealed a foundational regulatory finding that previously supported emissions limits on greenhouse gases from vehicles and power plants. This action eliminates the scientific basis for existing pollution controls, potentially enabling increased carbon emissions from major industrial sectors.Read more â
Engadget...Antitrust head overseeing Netflix-Warner merger resignsGail Slater, head of the DOJ's antitrust division, has been forced out following clashes with Attorney General Pam Bondi over merger skepticism and antitrust enforcement direction. Her departure occurs amid ongoing high-profile cases including Netflix's attempted acquisition of Warner Bros. Discovery and the DOJ's monopoly lawsuit against Live Nation Entertainment.Read more â
TechCrunch...Hacker linked to Epstein removed from Black Hat cyber conference websiteCybersecurity executive Vincenzo Iozzo has been removed from the review boards of major security conferences Black Hat and Code Blue following the public release of Justice Department documents revealing his associations with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein from 2014 to 2018. Iozzo denies being Epstein's personal hacker and claims interactions were limited to business discussions, stating he regrets the past association and takes responsibility for exercising poor judgment.Read more â
TechCrunch...Trump administration undermines EPA enforcement of Clean Air ActThe Trump administration officially repealed the EPA's 2009 endangerment finding that classified greenhouse gases as threats to human health, which had underpinned federal greenhouse gas regulations. The repeal is expected to slow emissions decline by approximately 10% and represents the first of several anticipated changes to federal air pollution regulations, though the full repeal process will take considerable time.Read more â
The Verge...Two powerful, OLED-equipped gaming laptops are hundreds offBest Buy is offering significant discounts on high-end gaming laptops, with the Asus ROG Zephyrus G14 reduced by $500 to $1,899.99 and the Acer Predator Helios Neo 16S down to $1,469.99. Both models feature powerful AMD Ryzen or Intel processors, Nvidia RTX 5070 Ti GPUs, and premium OLED displays, making them excellent choices for 2026 gaming performance.Read more â
TechCrunch...Automattic planned to target 10 competitors with royalty fees, WP Engine claims in new filingWP Engine filed an amended complaint against WordPress co-founder Matt Mullenweg and Automattic, alleging Mullenweg planned to target 10 hosting companies with royalty demands and pressured payment processor Stripe to cancel WP Engine's contract. The dispute centers on whether WP Engine should pay 8% royalties for using the WordPress trademark, with WP Engine challenging the rate as arbitrary and claiming Mullenweg used aggressive tactics including threats to steal customers if the company didn't comply.Read more â
Gizmodo...A STI Fungus Is Making Itself Cozy in the USMinnesota is experiencing the largest documented outbreak of TMVII, an emerging fungal infection that spreads primarily through sexual contact, with 13 confirmed and 27 suspected cases as of February 2026. Unlike typical ringworm, TMVII causes severe inflammatory rashes with higher risk of scarring and secondary infections, though it remains treatable with prolonged antifungal therapy.Read more â
Gizmodo...Mutated Rats Reign in This Ooey-Gooey Clip From âCold Storageâ (Exclusive)Cold Storage is a sci-fi horror comedy premiering February 13 about storage facility workers who encounter a parasitic fungus escaping from a sealed military base. The film stars Joe Keery and Georgina Campbell alongside Liam Neeson, with a screenplay by David Koepp, known for Jurassic Park and Indiana Jones films.Read more â
Gizmodo...Trump Just Blew American Climate Policy to SmithereensThe Trump Administration has repealed the EPA's 2009 endangerment finding that classified greenhouse gases as dangerous to human health, eliminating the legal basis for nearly two decades of U.S. climate regulations. The move will allow rollback of vehicle emission standards, power plant regulations, and oil and gas facility rules, with administration officials claiming it will save over $1.3 trillion annually, though scientists warn of severe consequences for public health and climate.Read more â
The Verge...Eufyâs midrange X10 Pro Omni robovac has fallen to its best-ever priceMultiple consumer tech products are on sale, including the Eufy X10 Pro Omni robot vacuum/mop hybrid at $449.99, Nothing Phone 3 flagship at $638.99, and the Birdbuddy Pro Solar bird feeder camera at $179. These deals represent significant discounts on devices featuring AI-powered features like obstacle detection and bird recognition capabilities.Read more â
Gizmodo...Israel Accuses Two Polymarket Bettors of Trading on Classified Military OperationsIsraeli authorities charged two citizens, including a military reservist, with insider trading on Polymarket for using classified information about Israel's military operations against Iran to place profitable bets. The case highlights ongoing concerns about prediction markets enabling insider trading while their operators defend the practice as improving market accuracy.Read more â
CNET...Hackers Are Trying to Copy Gemini via Thousands of AI Prompts, Google ReportsGoogle reported that adversaries from North Korea, Russia, and China are conducting model extraction attacks, using over 100,000 AI prompts to steal Gemini's technology and replicate it. These distillation attacks target AI service providers and model builders rather than end users, representing a growing threat as competition intensifies over advanced AI model development globally.Read more â
Gizmodo...Enjoy This POV of Getting Arrested at the Super BowlâCourtesy of Smart GlassesA field streaker at the Super Bowl used smart glasses to capture and share a first-person video of the incident, bypassing NBC's broadcast restrictions on showing such disruptions. The incident highlights both the accessibility of POV content creation via wearable cameras and growing concerns about smart glasses enabling non-consensual recording, particularly in communities using them for covert filming without proper awareness or consent mechanisms.Read more â
CNET...6 Expert-Backed Vitamins to Help With Healthy AgingThis article is not relevant to the tech news focus of this RSS feed. It covers health and nutrition advice for aging adults, including recommendations for vitamins and minerals like magnesium, B vitamins, calcium, vitamin D, omega-3s, and zinc.Read more â
TechCrunch...Spotify says its best developers havenât written a line of code since December, thanks to AISpotify revealed that its top developers have stopped writing code directly since December, instead using an internal AI system called 'Honk' powered by Claude Code for development and deployment. The company shipped over 50 features in 2025 and continues to accelerate product velocity through AI-assisted coding, allowing engineers to request bug fixes and feature additions via Slack that are automatically deployed.Read more â
Gizmodo...Howard Lutnickâs Epstein Island Visit Puts Spotlight on His Past Crypto TiesCommerce Secretary Howard Lutnick faces credibility questions after contradicting his previous claims about his relationship with Jeffrey Epstein, admitting to visiting Epstein's private island in 2012 despite earlier stating he had no contact with him after 2005. These credibility concerns are amplified by conflicts of interest surrounding his firm's stake in Tether, an unaudited stablecoin critical to the cryptocurrency economy, raising questions about impartial oversight of financial systems.Read more â
The Verge...Jeffrey Epstein might not have created /pol/, but he helped carry out its missionNewly released Epstein files reveal his connections to key figures in internet culture and far-right politics, including 4chan creator Christopher Poole, Steve Bannon, and tech billionaires like Elon Musk and Peter Thiel. While evidence doesn't confirm Epstein directly orchestrated major internet movements, the files show he was deeply interested in 4chan and maintained relationships with influential figures who shaped alt-right discourse and political strategy.Read more â
Engadget...Surfshark VPN is offering up to 87 percent off two-year plansSurfshark is offering an 87% discount on its One plan, priced at $2.29 per month for the first 27 months, bundling VPN service with additional security tools including antivirus, breach monitoring, and private search. The service is noted for its fast speeds, reliable streaming performance, and user-friendly interface, making it a compelling option for users seeking comprehensive privacy protection across multiple devices.Read more â
Gizmodo...Somehow, Samsung May Make QD-OLED Monitors Even BetterSamsung is introducing Penta-Tandem display technology featuring five stacked OLED layers instead of the previous four, enabling higher brightness, better efficiency, and improved lifespan while maintaining pixel density. The technology will be integrated into TVs and monitors launching in 2026, including a new 49-inch curved ultrawide gaming monitor with 5120Ă1440 resolution.Read more â
Gizmodo...How Razerâs $1,337 Boomslang Mouse Broke MeRazer released a limited-edition 20th Anniversary Boomslang mouse priced at $1,337, featuring retro aesthetics with modern internals including an 8,000Hz polling rate and 45,000 DPI sensor. Despite its premium construction and eye-catching design, the device lacks features expected at this price point, including Bluetooth connectivity, and functions more as a collectible showpiece than a practical gaming mouse.Read more â
Gizmodo...Scientists May Have Spotted the Soviet Union Lander Thatâs Been Missing for 60 YearsResearchers at University College London developed a machine learning algorithm called YOLO-ETA to locate the Soviet Union's Luna 9 spacecraft, which made the first soft landing on the Moon in 1966 but whose final location has remained unknown for 60 years. By analyzing hundreds of lunar images from NASA's Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter, the team narrowed down Luna 9's possible location to multiple sites showing artificial soil disturbances, with India's Chandrayaan-2 lunar mission potentially providing closer verification in March 2026.Read more â
Gizmodo...The Russo Brothers Are Still Being Weird About Those âAvengers: Doomsdayâ TeasersDirectors of Avengers: Doomsday released cryptic teasers a year before the film's release, claiming they are narrative clues rather than traditional trailers. The Russo Brothers stated each teaser contains story information meant to be consumed before the movie, though they clarified the teasers highlight character moments rather than being full scenes from the film.Read more â
TechCrunch...A new version of OpenAIâs Codex is powered by a new dedicated chipOpenAI released GPT-5.3-Codex-Spark, a lightweight version of its coding tool optimized for faster inference using Cerebras' Wafer Scale Engine 3 chip. This marks the first milestone of OpenAI's multi-year, $10 billion partnership with Cerebras, designed to deliver real-time collaboration and rapid iteration for developers through the ChatGPT Pro plan.Read more â
TechCrunch...Auroraâs driverless trucks can now travel farther distances faster than human driversAurora has achieved a major milestone by operating fully autonomous trucks on a 1,000-mile route between Fort Worth and Phoenix in approximately 15 hours, significantly outpacing human drivers constrained by federal regulations. The company has transitioned to commercial operations with revenue of $4 million in 2025 and plans to expand its driverless fleet from 10 to over 200 trucks by year-end, positioning autonomous trucking as a viable transportation solution.Read more â
CNET...YouTube Is Finally on the Apple Vision Pro. Can We Expect More Google Apps to Come?YouTube is now available as a native app on Apple Vision Pro after two years, enabling full immersive support for 3D and 360-degree videos. The native app provides a significantly enhanced experience compared to the previous Safari browser option, bringing YouTube's content in line with capabilities already available on competing devices like Samsung's Galaxy XR headset.Read more â
The Verge...Good Luck, Have Fun, Donât Die is a rollicking parable about this moment in techGore Verbinski's sci-fi film 'Good Luck, Have Fun, Don't Die' follows a time traveler attempting to recruit ordinary people to prevent an AI-caused apocalypse, using the narrative to critique society's screen addiction and uncritical adoption of technology. The film blends dark comedy with action sequences to explore anxieties about artificial intelligence and technological dystopia, offering a counterpoint to Hollywood's embrace of generative AI.Read more â
Gizmodo...The Pentagon Wants to Raw Dog the Latest AI Models on Classified SystemsThe Pentagon is negotiating with major AI companies to deploy advanced models across classified and unclassified networks without usage restrictions, seeking to expand AI capabilities for military applications including mission planning and weapons targeting. While OpenAI has made ChatGPT available through the Pentagon's GenAI.mil platform, Anthropic has resisted by refusing to allow its models for autonomous weapons or domestic surveillance, creating tension between military demands and AI companies' ethical concerns.Read more â
The Verge...Top DOJ antitrust enforcer is out weeks before Live Nation trialGail Slater, the top antitrust enforcer at the Justice Department, announced Thursday that she has left her post, just weeks before the agency's next major tech monopoly trial against entertainment giant Live Nation is set to begin. "It is with great sadness and abiding hope that I leave my role as AAG for Antitrust today," […]Read more â
Engadget...How to get F1TV with your Apple TV subscriptionApple TV has launched exclusive Formula 1 broadcasting rights in the United States through 2030, allowing subscribers to watch all races, practice sessions, and qualifying through the F1TV app with their Apple account. Existing F1TV subscribers will see duplicate subscriptions after linking with Apple TV and should cancel their original F1TV subscription, though Apple has not yet clarified feature parity between the two platforms.Read more â
The Verge...El Paso airspace closure was reportedly triggered by the CBPâs use of an anti-drone laserU.S. Customs and Border Protection officials mistakenly identified and took action against a party balloon, believing it to be an unauthorized drone. The incident highlights potential operational challenges in distinguishing between actual security threats and harmless objects.Read more â
CNET...Premier League Soccer: Stream Brentford vs. Arsenal Live From AnywhereThis article provides viewing details for the Brentford vs. Arsenal Premier League match scheduled for February 12 at 3:00 p.m. ET. The match is available on Peacock in the US and various streaming services in other regions, with Arsenal currently leading the title race but facing pressure from Manchester City.Read more â
Gizmodo...AST SpaceMobile Unfolds the Largest Commercial Communications Array Antenna in Low Earth OrbitAST SpaceMobile's BlueBird 6 satellite, the largest commercial satellite in orbit, successfully deployed its 2,400 square-foot communications array in Earth orbit. The satellite is the first of a next-generation constellation designed to deliver direct-to-cell 5G broadband to standard smartphones without additional hardware, with the company planning to launch 45-60 more satellites by the end of 2026 to provide coverage across the United States and select markets.Read more â
Gizmodo...Get Ready to Become Obsessed With the New Horror Film âObsessionâFocus Features is releasing the horror film Obsession, directed by Curry Barker, which follows a man who uses a magical wish to make his unrequited love reciprocate his feelings, leading to dark and disturbing consequences. The film stars Michael Johnston and breakout performance by Inde Navarrette, and is positioned as one of the year's best horror films.Read more â
The Verge...Every little thing she does is magicAnimator Bree O'Donnell discusses her creative process developing a 3D animated witch character named Mary, blending stop-motion aesthetics with digital tools to create melancholic, textured visuals inspired by nostalgia and magic. She emphasizes working intuitively within limitations rather than mastering technical complexity, collaborating with music as a creative guide, and maintaining artistic autonomy while developing an upcoming miniseries that will continue living on social platforms alongside a dedicated community of viewers.Read more â
The Verge...YouTube is coming to the Apple Vision ProApple Vision Pro is finally receiving an official YouTube app after more than two years, supporting standard videos, Shorts, 3D, 360, and VR180 content. The delayed official release comes after YouTube initially declined to build a native app but reversed course in early 2024, and follows Apple's removal of the unofficial Juno app from the App Store in October 2024.Read more â
CNET...Best Home Security Cameras of 2026: Surveillance on Your TermsThis article reviews multiple home security camera models including Wyze, Lorex, Eufy, Blink, and TP-Link options, highlighting their unique features such as solar panels, cellular connectivity, and compact designs. The guide emphasizes key purchasing considerations for security cameras including privacy, video resolution, power options, and Wi-Fi quality to help consumers select the right system for their specific needs.Read more â
Engadget...Apple Vision Pro finally gets a YouTube app todayGoogle has launched a native YouTube app for Apple Vision Pro, providing access to all YouTube content including shorts, 360, 3D, and VR 180 videos. The release represents a significant step in expanding visionOS app ecosystem as Google develops its competing Android XR platform.Read more â
Engadget...Highguard studio lays off 'most' of its team just weeks after the game went liveWildlight Entertainment has laid off most of its staff, retaining only a core team to support Highguard, an arena shooter developed by former Apex Legends and Titanfall developers. Despite the game's lackluster reception following its January release, the studio has been responsive to player feedback and continues development with reduced resources.Read more â
TechCrunch...More U.S. investors sue South Korean government over handling of Coupang data breachCoupang's December 2024 data breach affecting 34 million South Korean customers has escalated into an international dispute as U.S. investors filed for arbitration under the Korea-U.S. Free Trade Agreement, alleging discriminatory government treatment. The investors claim South Korea's response to Coupang was disproportionately harsh compared to penalties imposed on other companies like KakaoPay and SK Telecom for similar breaches, and they are seeking billions in damages for alleged violations of international trade law.Read more â
Engadget...1,200 Ubisoft workers went on strike in response to company restructuring and mandatory return-to-work policyOver 1,200 Ubisoft employees in France and Italy participated in a three-day strike from February 10-12 to protest layoffs, cost-cutting measures, and a mandatory five-day in-office work requirement. The striking workers, represented by union Solidaires Informatique, are demanding a 10 percent salary increase and implementation of a four-day work week, with reports indicating an employee was fired for publicly opposing the return-to-office policy.Read more â
The Verge...How Gorilla Tag is weathering the VR winterGorilla Tag, Meta's most popular VR game, continues thriving with 119,000 concurrent players at its five-year anniversary event despite industry-wide VR studio layoffs and Meta's pivot toward AR. Developer Another Axiom is expanding beyond VR headsets with planned mobile game, TV show, and live event launches, positioning itself to capitalize on the game's massive Gen Alpha fanbase and significant merchandise sales.Read more â
The Verge...The surprising case for AI judgesThe American Arbitration Association is developing an AI-assisted arbitration system called the AI Arbitrator to resolve specific types of disputes, starting with construction cases that can be decided on documents alone. The system uses multiple AI agents to parse claims and evidence while keeping humans in the loop, aiming to make dispute resolution faster, cheaper, and more transparent while addressing concerns about AI hallucinations and fairness.Read more â
Engadget...How to watch PlayStation's hour-long State of Play and what to expectPlayStation is hosting a State of Play livestream on February 12 lasting over an hour, featuring news and gameplay updates from third-party studios, indie developers, and PlayStation Studios. The showcase is expected to include announcements for upcoming first-party titles like Saros, Marathon, and MLB The Show 26, as well as third-party games including Marvel TĆkon: Fighting Souls and potentially Silent Hill: Townfall.Read more â
Engadget...Get two years of Proton VPN for 70 percent off right nowProton VPN is offering a limited-time promotion on its Proton VPN Plus subscription at $2.99 per month for a two-year commitment ($72 upfront), representing a 70 percent discount from regular pricing. The service is recognized for its strong privacy protections, nonprofit ownership, fast real-world speeds, and comprehensive features including 15,000+ servers across 120+ countries, making it a compelling option for long-term VPN commitments.Read more â
The Verge...DHS announces the end of its âsurge operationâ in Minneapolis, but not entirelyBorder Czar Tom Homan announced the conclusion of Operation Metro Surge, a massive immigration enforcement campaign in Minnesota that had increased federal ICE agents from 150 to approximately 2,000. While a small personnel presence will remain for transition purposes, the operation's primary phase is ending following previous incomplete drawdown announcements and significant community backlash, including mutual aid mobilization and protests.Read more â
Gizmodo...Come for the Air-Powered Display, Stay for the Accidental ASMRA YouTuber demonstrated building a display using hydraulic pixels controlled by vacuum and solenoid valves, arranged in a 4x4 grid that operates similarly to traditional logic circuits but using pneumatic instead of electronic components. This project showcases innovative applications of microfluidics and soft robotics, with each pixel activated through vacuum-based AND gates constructed from vacuum transistors.Read more â
The Verge...Spider-Noir looks like a hard-boiled thriller in first trailerA new live-action Spider-Man series is set to premiere on MGM Plus on May 25th, followed by its release on Amazon on May 27th, expanding the Spider-Man franchise across streaming platforms.Read more â
CNET...Sony's New WF-1000XM6 Earbuds Just Jumped to the Top of My Best Earbuds ListSony's new WF-1000XM6 earbuds feature a completely redesigned form factor that is 11% slimmer than the XM5s, with upgraded internal components including a more powerful QN3e chip and improved drivers that deliver 25% better noise cancellation in the mid-to-high frequency range. The earbuds excel across all key performance metrics including superior sound quality with natural bass extension and clarity, top-notch voice-calling performance, and enhanced transparency modes, earning them an Editors' Choice award despite their $330 price tag.Read more â
Gizmodo...The First Trailer for âSpider-Noirâ Teases a Comic Book ThrillerPrime Video's Spider-Noir, a new series from the Spider-Verse universe, stars Nicolas Cage as a 1930s private detective version of Spider-Man investigating a crime boss's murder in a noir-inspired New York. The show will be released in both colorized and black-and-white versions on May 27, offering viewers two distinct visual experiences of the same content.Read more â
Gizmodo...Sony WF-1000XM6: Yes, These Wireless Earbuds Sound That GoodSony has released the WF-1000XM6 wireless earbuds, which deliver exceptional sound quality tuned in collaboration with Grammy-winning mastering engineers, featuring organic and nuanced audio across genres. While the new earbuds maintain solid active noise cancellation and improved calling capabilities with bone conduction sensors, they fall short of competitors like Bose in noise isolation, though they represent a meaningful upgrade from the previous generation in audio fidelity and overall performance.Read more â
The Verge...The Sony WF-1000XM6 earbuds reclaim the noise-canceling crownThe Sony WF-1000XM6 earbuds deliver industry-leading noise cancellation and superior sound quality with a new 8-mic design and improved drivers, establishing Sony as the top choice in the competitive high-end earbud market. However, fit issues with the included foam tips require some users to request free silicone alternatives, and the slightly larger form factor may not appeal to everyone despite offering excellent touch control.Read more â
The Verge...Waymoâs next-gen robotaxi is ready for passengers â and also âhigh-volume productionâWaymo has unveiled its sixth-generation autonomous driving system, featuring improved sensors with fewer cameras (16 vs 29), advanced lidar and radar, and designed for multi-vehicle platforms starting with the Zeekr RT minivan and Hyundai Ioniq 5. The new system aims to reduce costs while enabling high-volume production and expansion into 20 new cities by 2026, leveraging over seven years of development and 200 million miles of testing.Read more â
Engadget...Sony WF-1000XM6 review: Facing tougher competitionSony released the WF-1000XM6 earbuds with a redesigned pill-shaped form factor and improved drivers for enhanced bass and treble. While the earbuds deliver excellent sound quality and comprehensive features, they lag behind competitors in active noise cancellation performance and call quality, with fit issues persisting due to Sony's foam ear tips.Read more â
CNET...5 Dietitians Explain How to Find the Best Protein BarsThis article provides guidance on selecting protein bars by examining key nutritional components including protein content (12-25 grams ideal), fiber (5-10 grams), and sweetener types while avoiding high-fructose corn syrup and sugar alcohols. The recommendations address dietary restrictions such as dairy sensitivity, gluten intolerance, and gastric issues, emphasizing the importance of choosing bars with whole, natural ingredients over processed alternatives.Read more â
Engadget...Presidents' Day sales 2026: The best tech deals to shop this week from Apple, Sony, Samsung and othersEngadget has compiled a curated list of Presidents' Day tech deals available during the holiday shopping period, which overlaps with Valentine's Day and Super Bowl 2026 sales. Featured discounts include streaming bundles, mobile devices, smart home products, and consumer electronics ranging from under $50 items to premium devices like the Apple Watch Series 11 and high-end drones, with savings up to 50 percent on select items.Read more â
TechCrunch...Apple acquires all rights to Severance, will produce future seasons in-houseApple has acquired full intellectual property rights to its acclaimed series 'Severance' from Fifth Season for approximately $70 million, bringing production in-house. The acquisition follows the show's success as Apple's most-watched series and allows the tech giant to manage escalating production costs while positioning it as a flagship title alongside other premium originals.Read more â
Engadget...Apple Presidents' Day sales: Get the Apple Watch Series 11 for $299, plus more dealsThe Apple Watch Series 11 is available for $299 during Presidents' Day sales, marking a $100 discount and the lowest price to date. The smartwatch features over 24 hours of battery life, a lightweight design, and new health metrics including hypertension alerts and Sleep Score, making it an excellent choice for those pursuing fitness resolutions.Read more â
The Verge...ByteDanceâs next-gen AI model can generate clips based on text, images, audio, and videoBig Tech's race to leapfrog the latest AI models continues with the launch of ByteDance's next-gen video generator. In a blog post, ByteDance - the China-based company behind TikTok - says Seedance 2.0 supports prompts that combine text, images, video, and audio. The company claims it "delivers a substantial leap in generation quality," offering improvements […]Read more â
Gizmodo...âKnight of the Seven Kingdomsâ Cut the Best Line From the Book on AccidentA Knight of the Seven Kingdoms showrunner Ira Parker acknowledged that a key scene from George R.R. Martin's source novella was accidentally cut from the script before filming, in which commonfolk tribute Dunk with the line 'A knight who remembered his vows.' Parker defended the omission by noting that while the specific dialogue was lost, its thematic essence remains central to the show's portrayal of Dunk's character and values.Read more â
Engadget...Our favorite wireless headphones are down to a record-low priceSony WH-1000XM6 wireless headphones are now available at $398, their lowest price since launch, offering $62 in savings across all colorways. These premium headphones feature advanced active noise cancellation with 12 microphones, superior sound quality from redesigned audio drivers, exceptional comfort for extended wear, and approximately 30 hours of battery life.Read more â
TechCrunch...US FTC airs concerns over allegations that Apple News suppresses right-wing contentThe FTC has raised concerns that Apple may be censoring conservative content in its Apple News app, citing allegations from a right-leaning think tank that right-leaning outlets are excluded from top articles. FTC Chair Andrew Ferguson warned Apple that if these practices violate its terms of service or consumer expectations, the company could face violations of the FTC Act and demanded a comprehensive review and corrective action.Read more â
Engadget...The Disney+ Hulu bundle is down to only $10 for one monthDisney+ and Hulu are offering a limited-time promotional bundle for $10 per month for new and eligible returning subscribers, representing a $3 discount from the regular $13 monthly price. While less generous than last year's Black Friday deal, this promotion provides an opportunity for users to access Disney's premium content library and Hulu's adult-oriented programming at a reduced rate.Read more â
The Verge...Amazonâs Send to Alexa Plus makes the Kindle Scribe feel more like a productivity deviceAmazon launched 'Send to Alexa Plus' for Kindle Scribe devices, enabling users to send notes and documents to Claude Haiku for AI-powered summarization, task creation, and brainstorming. The feature excels at converting handwritten notes into actionable items like calendar events and reminders, though it struggles with nuanced analysis and detailed outlines.Read more â
CNET...40 of the Best Movies on Netflix You Should Stream NowThis article is a curated list of 40 movies available on Netflix, featuring both original productions and licensed films across multiple genres. It highlights Netflix's growing awards presence, including six original films earning 18 Oscar nominations in 2026, while providing recommendations spanning documentaries, dramas, comedies, and action thrillers.Read more â
TechCrunch...Eclipse backs all-EV marketplace Ever in $31M funding roundEver, an AI-native electric vehicle marketplace, has secured $31 million in Series A funding to scale its digital-first auto retail platform. The company uses an orchestration layer powered by agentic AI to streamline the complex workflows involved in buying and selling used EVs, claiming to boost sales team productivity by 2-3x compared to traditional retailers.Read more â
Gizmodo...âSpider-Man: Brand New Dayâ Could Bring Back Even More Familiar FacesMultiple entertainment projects are in development with casting updates and production news. Key announcements include Benedict Wong and Franz Rogowski joining The Masque of the Red Death, J.K. Simmons and Angourie Rice reprising roles in Spider-Man: Brand New Day, and Stranger Things: Tales from '85 being described as a 'lost season' of the original series.Read more â
Engadget...Amazon's Send to Alexa+ feature arrives on Kindle Scribe and Scribe ColorsoftAmazon is launching 'Send to Alexa+' feature for Kindle Scribe devices, enabling users to share notebooks and documents with Alexa+ AI assistant across Amazon platforms. The feature allows Alexa+ to summarize notes, create to-do lists, and manage calendar items and reminders for Prime and Alexa+ subscribers.Read more â
Engadget...NVIDIA's GeForce Now app lands on Amazon Fire TV sticksNVIDIA has launched a native GeForce Now app for select Amazon Fire TV devices, eliminating the need to sideload the Android app. The Fire TV version supports up to 1080p resolution at 60 fps with stereo audio, offering a convenient option for existing Fire TV owners despite lower specs than the service's premium tiers.Read more â
Engadget...Get Elevation Lab's 10-year extended battery case for AirTag for only $16 for Presidents' DayElevation Lab's extended battery case for AirTag is currently 30 percent off at $16, extending battery life to approximately 10 years when equipped with AA batteries. The case offers enhanced durability with IP69 waterproofing and theft deterrence through disguised appearance, though sound output is reduced and it's too bulky for wallet or keychain use.Read more â
Engadget...MasterClass deal: Get half off subscriptions ahead of Presidents' DayMasterClass is offering 50 percent off annual memberships, reducing Premium to $10/month, Plus to $8/month, and Standard to $5/month. The platform provides access to over 200 classes across diverse subjects including cooking, business, storytelling, and wellness, taught by industry experts, with different tiers varying by device support and offline viewing capabilities.Read more â
CNET...Now Isn't the Time to Buy an iPhone 16E. Here's Why You Should WaitApple is expected to launch the iPhone 17E next month as a successor to the iPhone 16E budget model. The new device may offer improved features like dual cameras found in the standard iPhone 17, while maintaining an affordable price point by sharing components across the product line.Read more â
Gizmodo...One More âStranger Thingsâ Actor Wants You to Give Up on âConformity GateâCaleb McLaughlin addressed fan conspiracy theories about Stranger Things following the finale, confirming the main series has ended after 10 years and dismissing speculation about hidden episodes or surviving characters. The actor emphasized that the show's ending, which returns to its D&D storytelling roots, represents the true essence the creators intended.Read more â
CNET...Crunchyroll Review: Unmatched Simulcasts and Vast Catalog Set It ApartCrunchyroll has earned a 2025 CNET Editors' Choice Award for its unrivaled anime catalog of over 40,000 episodes available in 200+ countries, combined with new features like a manga app and customizable subscription tiers starting at $10/month. The Sony-owned platform, which merged with Funimation in 2022, offers same-day simulcasts of Japanese releases, multiple subscription levels with additional perks, and improved features including multiple user profiles and parental controls.Read more â
The Verge...This $7,999 robot will fold (some of) your laundryWeave, a Bay Area startup, launched Isaac 0, a laundry-folding robot priced at $7,999 that can fold a load in 30-90 minutes but requires wall power, teleoperator assistance for complex folds, and cannot handle large fabrics or inside-out items. The robot joins emerging competitors like LG and SwitchBot in attempting to automate household chores, though widespread home adoption remains uncertain.Read more â
Engadget...Apple's Siri relaunch is reportedly behind scheduleApple's redesigned AI-powered Siri will be delayed beyond its planned March release due to performance issues discovered during testing, including sluggish response times and query processing failures. Instead of a single launch, the company will roll out Siri's new capabilities incrementally across multiple iOS updates throughout 2025.Read more â
CNET...These 4 Documentaries Are a Reminder of Just How Exciting the Winter Olympics Can GetNetflix releases documentary content exploring major Winter Olympic scandals and historic moments, including the 1980 'Miracle on Ice' US hockey victory, the 2002 figure skating judging controversy involving Russian and Canadian pairs, and the 1994 attack on Nancy Kerrigan allegedly orchestrated by rival Tonya Harding's associates. These specials feature newly uncovered interviews and footage examining how these events impacted Olympic history and sports governance.Read more â
Gizmodo...UK Ad Group Chides Disney for âPredator: Badlandsâ Ad With Severed Robo-BodyDisney's advertisement for Predator: Badlands was banned by the UK's Advertising Standards Authority after two complaints about an image depicting a severed synthetic body, which the ASA determined could be misinterpreted as human and cause distress to young children. Despite Disney's clarification that the image appeared for under two seconds and depicted a non-human character, the ASA maintained that the realistic depiction was inappropriate for younger audiences, though the film itself is already out of theatrical release.Read more â
The Verge...HP ZBook Ultra G1a review: a business-class workstation thatâs got gameThe HP ZBook Ultra G1a is a premium enterprise workstation laptop featuring AMD's Strix Halo APU with exceptional integrated graphics, OLED display, and Thunderbolt 4 connectivity, making it capable of professional workloads and gaming despite its $4,700 price tag. While offering solid performance across everyday computing, heavy workloads, and mid-tier gaming, its high cost and power consumption limit its appeal to specialists requiring local AI inference, 3D rendering, or similar demanding tasks.Read more â
CNET...Can NAD Plus Supplements Reverse the Aging Process? We Asked Actual DoctorsNAD+ is a coenzyme that naturally decreases with age, and while supplements may support cellular energy and skin health, experts caution they are not a magic anti-aging solution. Research is still limited, and supplements should only be used under medical supervision alongside healthy lifestyle habits like exercise, proper nutrition, and adequate sleep.Read more â
Engadget...WhatsApp is now fully blocked in RussiaRussia has blocked WhatsApp for approximately 100 million users by removing it from the internet directory, forcing users toward Max, a state-owned unencrypted messaging app. The blockade is part of broader restrictions on foreign communication platforms including Telegram, Facebook, and Instagram, justified by authorities as preventing fraud and terrorism but criticized as isolating citizens from secure communication.Read more â
CNET...The Ultimate Energy Hack: How to Use Light Therapy to Beat the Daylight Saving Time BluesSeasonal affective disorder affects 4-6% of the population, with symptoms including fatigue, low mood, and sleep changes, particularly during fall and winter months. Light therapy, using specialized lamps that emit 10,000 lux of light, has been shown to be an effective treatment by stimulating serotonin production and improving mood regulation within 20-30 minutes of daily use.Read more â
The Verge...ICE is pushing Minneapolis undergroundThis article details Minneapolis' response to ICE's Operation Metro Surge, where massive immigration enforcement has created widespread fear in immigrant communities while spurring unprecedented civilian resistance through community organizing, mutual aid networks, and neighborhood surveillance systems. The operation has forced thousands into their homes, disrupted businesses and schools, and prompted a complex resistance movement combining direct action, aid delivery, and documentation efforts.Read more â
CNET...Best Home Theater Systems of 2026CNET provides comprehensive home theater system recommendations across multiple categories, from budget soundbars to high-end Dolby Atmos setups. The article details testing methodologies, key purchasing considerations like channel configuration and connectivity, and specific product reviews to help consumers choose systems suited to their needs and budget.Read more â
CNET...You Might Be Washing Your Coffee Maker Too Often, According to an ExpertA coffee roastery founder shares seven common brewing mistakes that diminish coffee quality, including over-washing equipment, buying stale beans, adjusting multiple variables simultaneously, using unfiltered tap water, and neglecting to assess aroma and freshness. Simple adjustments like using filtered water, checking roast dates, changing one variable at a time, and selecting organic coffee can significantly improve the flavor and enjoyment of home-brewed coffee.Read more â
CNET...My New Obsession: Clever Grocery Bags That Hang on Your Cart for Easy SortingThe article explores reusable cart-organizer bags designed to fit inside shopping carts, featuring multiple compartments and color-coding to enable real-time sorting of groceries during shopping. These bags improve efficiency by organizing purchases by category, reducing unpacking time at home, and complementing scan-as-you-go shopping apps for a streamlined retail experience.Read more â
Gizmodo...WhatsApp Basically Wiped from Russian InternetRussia has blocked access to WhatsApp for approximately 100 million users and is pushing citizens toward Max, a government-linked alternative app with no encryption that requires sharing activity with authorities. This represents an escalation in Russia's internet censorship and control over communications, following similar blocks of Telegram and other services since the 2022 invasion of Ukraine.Read more â
Engadget...The best record players for 2026A comprehensive guide to selecting quality vinyl record players under $600, addressing common concerns about cost and complexity. The article evaluates various turntable models and explains key features like automatic operation, preamp options, cartridge upgradability, and construction materials to help buyers choose based on their listening preferences and budget.Read more â
Engadget...Apple acquires Severance and will produce future seasons in-houseApple has acquired full ownership of the critically acclaimed series Severance from Fifth Season studio for approximately $70 million, with Apple Studios now taking over production of future seasons. The acquisition reflects Apple's strategy to expand its premium content portfolio and addresses production cost pressures that exceeded Fifth Season's capabilities, positioning Severance as a marquee title alongside other high-profile Apple original series.Read more â
Engadget...The best budgeting apps for 2026Following Mint's shutdown in March 2024, this comprehensive review evaluates budgeting app alternatives, testing competitors like PocketGuard and NerdWallet to help users find the best replacement for tracking finances, credit scores, and spending goals. The article explains how budgeting apps use Plaid technology to securely connect bank accounts and highlights key features users should consider when selecting a new financial management tool.Read more â
CNET...Today's NYT Connections: Sports Edition Hints and Answers for Feb. 12, #507This article provides hints and answers for The New York Times Connections: Sports Edition puzzle, organized by difficulty level from yellow to purple groups. The puzzle features Miami sports teams, athletic brand logos, Curry family members, and phrases ending with 'green'.Read more â
Gizmodo...Long Delayed Siri Functions Are Reportedly Being Delayed Once Again Because Theyâre Slow and InaccurateApple's new Siri development is facing significant testing issues, including incorrect query processing and performance delays, forcing the company to release only a partial version in iOS 18.4 next month rather than the full smart assistant capabilities shown in its advertising campaign. The more advanced features, including personal data integration and contextual understanding, are being delayed to subsequent iOS updates, with Apple licensing Google's AI model for $1 billion annually to power the redesigned assistant.Read more â
CNET...Remember James Van Der Beek by Streaming Dawson's Creek and His Other RolesJames Van Der Beek, the actor best known for his role as Dawson Leery in the late-1990s drama Dawson's Creek, has passed away at age 48 after battling colorectal cancer. Throughout his career, Van Der Beek appeared in numerous television shows and films, with his final on-screen role being in the Legally Blonde prequel series Elle, set to premiere on Prime Video in July.Read more â
Gizmodo...âWeâll Find the Remnants of Ancient Alien Civilizationsâ: Read Muskâs Gibberish Rant from His xAI All-Hands MeetingElon Musk outlined an ambitious vision for merging SpaceX and xAI to advance AI development through space exploration, proposing orbital data centers, lunar factories with mass drivers, and eventually tapping into the sun's energy to power increasingly sophisticated AI systems. The pitch connects space expansion to AI progress, arguing that accessing vastly greater energy sources and potentially discovering ancient alien civilizations requires humanity to extend beyond Earth.Read more â
CNET...Stay Patient, Apple Fans: Siri AI Delayed Again to Late 2026 at the EarliestApple has delayed its AI-enhanced Siri voice assistant again, pushing the release from March to potentially May or September 2026 due to ongoing technical challenges including slow performance, difficulty with complex commands, and reliability issues with app integrations. The new Siri, combining Apple's LLM with Google's Gemini technology, still struggles with data access features and properly handling rapid user input.Read more â
The Verge...Highguardâs developer reportedly lays off âmostâ of its staff just over two weeks after launchMultiplayer shooter Highguard, launched by Wildlight Entertainment in late January, has already undergone significant layoffs just over two weeks post-launch, with most of the team being let go despite initial success of nearly 100,000 concurrent players. The game's player retention has dropped dramatically to around 2,400 concurrent players and currently holds a mixed rating on Steam, reflecting broader challenges facing live service games in the industry.Read more â
CNET...How Computers Powered by Light Could Help With AI's Energy ProblemResearchers at Penn State have developed an optical computing approach using light-based systems to potentially reduce AI's massive energy consumption. The team created an 'infinity mirror' prototype that enables optical computers to perform the nonlinear functions required for neural networks, with realistic commercialization timelines of 2-5 years and potential future integration alongside traditional GPUs in hybrid AI systems.Read more â
Engadget...Diablo II: Resurrected is adding warlock as a brand new player classBlizzard has introduced the Warlock as the first new playable class in 25 years to Diablo II: Resurrected through the Reign of the Warlock DLC ($25), which also includes new items and a pinnacle boss encounter. The Warlock class is also being added to Diablo 4's upcoming Lord of Hatred expansion and Diablo Immortal, expanding access across the franchise.Read more â
CNET...March's Full Blood Moon Will Feature a Total Lunar Eclipse: Here's When to See ItA total lunar eclipse will occur on March 3, 2026, marking the final eclipse in a three-eclipse series that began in March 2025. The eclipse will be visible across North America with varying degrees of visibility depending on location, with the West Coast experiencing the complete event and eastern regions seeing partial views.Read more â
TechCrunch...xAI lays out interplanetary ambitions in public all-handsxAI published a full all-hands meeting video revealing major organizational restructuring into four primary teams focused on Grok, coding systems, Imagine video generation, and the Macrohard project, alongside announcements of $1 billion in annual recurring revenue from X subscriptions and Imagine generating 50 million videos daily. The expansion plans include ambitious visions for space-based data centers and lunar infrastructure for AI satellite deployment, though usage figures are complicated by significant deepfake pornography generation on the platform.Read more â
The Verge...Two more xAI co-founders are among those leaving after the SpaceX mergerSince the xAI-SpaceX merger announced last week, which combined the two companies (as well as social media platform X) for a reported $1.25 trillion valuation - the biggest merger of all time - a handful of xAI employees and two of its co-founders have abruptly exited the company, penning long departure announcements online. Some also […]Read more â
The Verge...iOS 26.3 makes it easier to switch to AndroidApple released iOS 26 with an improved data transfer tool that allows users to switch from iPhone to Android by placing devices side by side, streamlining the migration of apps, photos, messages, and phone numbers. The EU version of iOS 26.3 now includes notification forwarding to third-party wearables, enhancing interoperability and complying with Digital Markets Act requirements.Read more â
CNET...Anthropic Expands Claude's Free Tier With More FeaturesAnthropic has expanded Claude's free plan with previously paywalled features including file creation (PowerPoint, Excel, Word, PDF), select Connectors for Google Workspace, and custom Skills, in response to OpenAI adding ads to ChatGPT's free and low-cost plans. The move aims to attract users seeking an ad-free alternative and positions Claude as a more feature-rich free option in the competitive AI chatbot market.Read more â
CNET...Diablo Celebrates 30th Anniversary With New Warlock Class, Coming to 3 Games This YearBlizzard announced the warlock, a new demonic spellcaster class coming to Diablo 2: Resurrected today, Diablo 4 in April, and Diablo Immortal later this summer, marking the first new class added to Diablo 2 in 25 years. The Lord of Hatred expansion for Diablo 4 introduces the warlock alongside a new region, revamped skill trees for all classes, expanded endgame activities like Warplans, and fishing, designed to increase build variety and player engagement.Read more â
Gizmodo...As Patagonia Burns, the World May Lose Some of its Most Ancient TreesSevere wildfires in Argentina and Chile are destroying ancient Patagonian forests, including Los Alerces National Park, home to the world's longest-living Alerce trees that have stored carbon for thousands of years. When these massive trees burn, they release enormous amounts of stored carbon into the atmosphere, intensifying global warming and creating hotter, drier conditions that fuel more firesâa dangerous climate feedback loop. Climate change, driven by human activity, has increased the heat, drought, and winds that are making these wildfires more intense and likely, threatening irreplaceable ecosystems and vulnerable species.Read more â
Gizmodo...âSeveranceâ Will Likely End After Season 4Apple TV's Severance will move under Apple Studios and is targeting a summer 2026 filming start for season three, with season four planned as the series finale. The show's creators envision a 3-4 season arc with potential for prequels and spinoffs, though production timelines remain extended due to the show's complex mythology and interconnected writing.Read more â
The Verge...The Vergeâs 2026 Valentineâs Day gift guide (for him)This article appears to be a gift guide compilation featuring multiple products across various categories rather than a single news story. It covers consumer electronics including Apple AirPods 4, Nintendo Switch 2, smartwatches, and various accessories and gift items.Read more â
TechCrunch...AI inference startup Modal Labs in talks to raise at $2.5B valuation, sources sayModal Labs, an AI inference infrastructure startup, is raising a new funding round at a $2.5 billion valuation, more than doubling its $1.1 billion valuation from five months ago, with General Catalyst leading the round. The company, which focuses on optimizing AI model inference to reduce compute costs and latency, has an annualized revenue run rate of approximately $50 million and represents part of a competitive wave of inference-focused startups attracting significant investor attention.Read more â
The Verge...Anthropic says it'll try to keep its data centers from raising electricity costsAnthropic has committed to limiting energy costs associated with its data centers in response to increasing criticism about their power consumption. The move aligns with similar sustainability pledges from other major technology companies addressing concerns over the environmental impact of AI infrastructure.Read more â
Gizmodo...OpenAI Researcher Quits, Warns Its Unprecedented âArchive of Human Candorâ Is DangerousOpenAI researcher ZoĂ« Hitzig publicly resigned to warn about the company's introduction of advertisements to ChatGPT and the potential misuse of sensitive user data collected in conversations for ad targeting. While OpenAI claims to maintain a firewall between user conversations and advertisers, Hitzig argues the company has economic incentives to eventually override privacy protections and lacks binding commitments to users, citing past issues like model sycophancy designed to increase engagement.Read more â
Gizmodo...You Can Rent HPâs Ginormous Gaming Laptops. Hereâs Why You ShouldnâtRising memory costs driven by AI data center demand are pushing PC prices higher, prompting HP to launch a laptop rental service starting at $50/month. While subscription access may seem affordable short-term, users sacrifice ownership and face steep cancellation fees and return costs, raising concerns about future computing accessibility as PC prices continue to climb.Read more â
Gizmodo...Elon Musk Is Winning His War on Government OversightThe National Labor Relations Board dismissed its case against SpaceX regarding the 2022 firing of eight employees who had criticized Elon Musk on social media, ruling that SpaceX falls under the jurisdiction of the National Mediation Board instead, which offers workers narrower protections than the NLRB. This decision represents a significant victory for Musk in his broader efforts to challenge federal regulatory authority over his companies, occurring amid his administration's influence over agency staffing decisions.Read more â
Gizmodo...Jar Jar Binksâ New âStar Warsâ Comic Finally Does Something About His Clone Wars ComplicityMarvel's new Jar Jar Binks comic, co-written by actor Ahmed Best, reframes the character's role in Star Wars lore by having him discover his complicity in the Republic's corruption and secretly help establish rebel communication networks that would resist the Empire. The story presents a redemptive arc where Jar Jar's political missteps are offset by his contributions to the resistance, connecting him to established Star Wars canon including Ezra Bridger's parents and the Hidden Path from the Obi-Wan series.Read more â
CNET...Amazon Pharmacy to Offer Same-Day Delivery to 2,000 More Communities in 2026Amazon Pharmacy is expanding same-day prescription delivery to over 4,500 locations by year-end, adding approximately 2,000 new areas including underserved regions in Idaho and Massachusetts. This expansion leverages Amazon's logistics network to improve medication access and reduce barriers to timely treatment, complementing existing services like RxPass which offers discounted medications for Prime subscribers and uninsured customers.Read more â
TechCrunch...OpenAI disbands mission alignment team, which focused on âsafeâ and âtrustworthyâ AI developmentOpenAI has disbanded its dedicated Alignment team, which focused on ensuring AI systems are safe and aligned with human values, with team members reassigned to other roles. The team's former leader has been appointed as Chief Futurist to study how the world will change in response to AI development, marking a strategic shift in the company's approach to AI safety research.Read more â
The Verge...Why I wish I hadnât bought my Samsung OLED TVA user expresses deep regret over choosing a Samsung S90C OLED TV over an LG C3, citing persistent software frustrations that overshadow the TV's excellent hardware. Primary complaints include an oversized volume indicator that obstructs content and cumbersome HDMI input switching that requires repeated remote navigation, issues that remain unresolved despite years of user complaints and forum discussions.Read more â
Gizmodo...Americaâs Largest Particle Collider Just Shut Down. Hereâs What Happens NextThe Relativistic Heavy Ion Collider (RHIC) at Brookhaven National Laboratory ceased operations to make way for its successor, the Electron-Ion Collider (EIC), which is expected to begin operations by the mid-2030s. During its 24-year operational history, RHIC made groundbreaking discoveries including reproducing quark-gluon plasma and characterizing particle spin properties, with its final run collecting more data than any previous period.Read more â
CNET...Elon Musk Eyes Moon Facility, Plus Catapult to Send AI Satellites Into OrbitElon Musk told xAI employees he plans to build an AI satellite factory on the moon with a catapult system to launch satellites, citing power and cooling demands of AI data centers as unsustainable on Earth. Musk believes space-based AI infrastructure will become the most cost-effective solution within 36 months.Read more â
Engadget...The great RAMaggedon of 2026 might have just claimed the Steam DeckThe Steam Deck is currently completely sold out across all models following Valve's recent admission that RAM shortages are affecting its hardware plans. The simultaneous unavailability of multiple OLED variants suggests potential supply chain challenges that Valve has not publicly acknowledged for the handheld device.Read more â
TechCrunch...Appleâs Siri revamp reportedly delayed⊠againApple is further delaying its AI-powered Siri redesign, pushing some features from the March iOS 18.4 update to May or iOS 27 in September due to testing issues. The new Siri will function more like modern LLM chatbots, powered by Google Gemini, allowing users to interact with advanced AI capabilities through voice commands.Read more â
The Verge...Aurora says it will âtripleâ its driverless truck networkA company is expanding its operations throughout the Southern US by adding new routes, including extended routes that would typically require driver breaks. This expansion suggests the company is scaling its logistics or transportation network in the region.Read more â
The Verge...Apple keeps hitting bumps with its overhauled SiriApple is delaying major Siri enhancements originally planned for iOS 26.4 due to software testing issues, instead rolling them out across iOS 26.5 and iOS 27. The company is also developing new AI-powered Siri features including web search capabilities and custom image generation, with a conversational AI chatbot version expected to launch in September following its announcement at WWDC.Read more â
TechCrunch...Uber Eats launches AI assistant to help with grocery cart creationUber Eats launched Cart Assistant, an AI chatbot feature that automatically fills grocery carts by accepting text lists, handwritten images, or recipe screenshots. The tool learns from user purchase history to personalize recommendations and streamline the shopping experience, helping Uber Eats compete with rivals like Instacart and DoorDash in the AI-powered grocery delivery space.Read more â
Gizmodo...You Could Lose Track of Time Appreciating These Immaculate âJujutsu Kaisenâ Color ScriptsJujutsu Kaisen's third season has achieved significant acclaim for its exceptional visual artistry, with studio Mappa showcasing innovative color scripting and animation techniques that elevate the anime beyond typical shonen standards. The production team's meticulous approach to visual aesthetics, including color palettes and lighting design, has resonated with audiences across social media platforms and demonstrates the technical excellence of modern anime production.Read more â
TechCrunch...Who will own your companyâs AI layer? Gleanâs CEO explainsGlean, an enterprise AI startup, has evolved from a search product into an AI work assistant platform that integrates with internal systems to automate tasks across organizations. The company raised $150 million at a $7.2 billion valuation, reflecting investor confidence in enterprise AI shifting from chatbots to systems that execute work, as competition intensifies against tech giants bundling AI capabilities.Read more â
TechCrunch...Microsoft says hackers are exploiting critical zero-day bugs to target Windows and Office usersMicrosoft has released patches for multiple zero-day vulnerabilities in Windows and Office that are being actively exploited by hackers in one-click attacks. The vulnerabilities, including flaws in Windows Shell (CVE-2026-21510) and MSHTML engine (CVE-2026-21513), allow attackers to bypass security features and remotely execute malware with high privileges, posing significant risks of system compromise and ransomware deployment.Read more â
Engadget...Get up to 81 percent off ExpressVPN two-year plansExpressVPN is offering a significant promotional discount on its two-year plans, with the Advanced tier available for $88 (81% off), reducing monthly costs to approximately $3.14. The service remains a top-rated VPN option known for fast speeds, ease of use, and global server availability, though this deal temporarily addresses its traditionally high pricing.Read more â
Gizmodo...The Success of âKnight of the Seven Kingdomsâ Is Boosting Its Comic AdaptationsThe comic adaptation of George R.R. Martin's The Hedge Knight has surged to #5 on Amazon's Best Sellers for comics following the premiere of the HBO series A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms in January. The popularity demonstrates strong audience crossover between the television adaptation and the source material comics, with both The Hedge Knight and The Sworn Sword adaptations performing well on bestseller lists.Read more â
Engadget...How to cancel Mullvad VPNMullvad VPN distinguishes itself with a non-renewal subscription model where users pay 5 Euro per month upfront without automatic billing, making cancellation straightforward by simply stopping payments. The article provides detailed cancellation instructions for various account types and platforms, including special procedures for accounts with auto-renewal enabled or those purchased through app stores.Read more â
TechCrunch...How to get into a16zâs super-competitive Speedrun startup accelerator programAndreessen Horowitz's Speedrun accelerator program, which accepts less than 0.4% of applicants, prioritizes founding team quality and market validation over market theory pitches. The program invests up to $1 million per startup and provides access to a16z's 600-person network, with successful founders emphasizing intellectual honesty and clarity about their problem and team capabilities over polished narratives.Read more â
TechCrunch...Cash App adds payment links so you can get paid in a DMCash App introduced payment links, a new feature allowing users to send payments via shareable hyperlinks embedded in texts, emails, and direct messages. The feature aims to streamline peer-to-peer payments while reducing social awkwardness in payment requests, supporting both recurring and group payments.Read more â
Engadget...Anthropic beefs up Claude's free tier as OpenAI prepares to stuff ads into ChatGPT'sAnthropic has expanded Claude's free tier to include file creation, third-party connectors, and custom skills, enabling users to create documents and integrate external services. The move appears strategic, positioning Claude against OpenAI's planned ChatGPT monetization through ads.Read more â
Engadget...Apple just released iOS 26.3 alongside updates for the Mac, iPad and Apple WatchApple released software update 26.3 across iPhone, iPad, Mac, and Apple Watch, primarily addressing 37 security issues and various bug fixes. The update introduces a new tool for transitioning data from Apple to Android devices and adds notification forwarding capabilities for EU users.Read more â
TechCrunch...Amazonâs new eero Signal keeps you connected to the internet when outages occurAmazon's eero launched the eero Signal 4G LTE device, a $99.99 USB-C accessory that provides automatic cellular backup when home internet fails. The device switches seamlessly to 4G LTE during outages and includes affordable subscription options starting at $99.99 annually for 10GB of backup data, with a 5G version planned later this year.Read more â
TechCrunch...The search is on: 2026 Joseph C. Belden Innovation Award nominations are openThe 2026 Joseph C. Belden Innovation Award is now accepting nominations for groundbreaking technologies across manufacturing, energy, healthcare, and telecommunications sectors. This year's award expands its focus to IT/OT convergence solutions, with eligibility limited to companies under $500 million in revenue that have launched products after July 2024 and achieved at least one customer deployment.Read more â
CNET...Dell XPS 14 Hands-On: The Long-Running Laptop Brand Goes Back to What WorksDell has resurrected its XPS laptop brand after discontinuing it in favor of Plus, Premium, and Pro models. The new XPS 14 addresses key criticisms of its predecessor by reducing weight from 3.8 pounds to just over 3 pounds, restoring physical Function keys, and improving overall design while maintaining build quality.Read more â
Engadget...Amazon's same-day prescription deliveries are coming to even more citiesAmazon is expanding its same-day prescription delivery service to 4,500 new cities and towns by the end of 2026, building on its 2020 Amazon Pharmacy launch. The expansion will bring same-day delivery to new states including Idaho and Massachusetts, leveraging Amazon's fulfillment center network to reach nearly half of all US residents.Read more â
TechCrunch...Activist investor Ancora publicly opposes the WBD-Netflix dealInvestment firm Ancora Holdings has purchased $200 million in Warner Bros. Discovery shares and is opposing Netflix's $82.7 billion acquisition bid, instead backing Paramount's rival offer. Ancora claims Netflix's deal presents higher regulatory risk and inferior value, and is actively campaigning to persuade other shareholders to reject the Netflix proposal, though over 93% previously voted in favor of it.Read more â
Gizmodo...Ashley Johnson Understands the âLast of Usâ Season 2 BacklashAshley Johnson, the original voice actor for Ellie in The Last of Us games, discusses the fan backlash to the HBO adaptation's second season, characterizing the passionate criticism as understandable given the show's deliberate subversion of fan expectations. Johnson and fellow actor Bella Ramsey both emphasize that the creative team prioritizes storytelling integrity over appeasing social media discourse, with season three shifting focus to Abby's character under showrunner Craig Mazin without Neil Druckmann's involvement.Read more â
CNET...Aloha, AI Moana: Google's AI Will No Longer Accept Disney Character PromptsGoogle has restricted its AI tools including Gemini and Nano Banana from generating content based on Disney character references following a cease-and-desist letter alleging copyright infringement. The update adds content filters that return errors when users attempt to create images of Disney characters or similar content, representing Google's response to Disney's claims of commercial copyright exploitation.Read more â
CNET...How My New Induction Smart Stove Saved Me Hours of DrivingA home technology reporter switched from a gas stove to a Samsung induction stove due to air quality and health concerns, and has found significant benefits including faster cooking times, improved cleaning ease, and smart app connectivity that remotely prevented a potential safety issue. The article outlines key advantages of induction cooking over gas, including instant temperature control, rapid heat generation, and the convenience of monitoring the stove remotely through a smartphone app.Read more â
Gizmodo...The Very American Toyota Highlander Goes All-ElectricToyota is introducing a fully electric 2027 Highlander, replacing the gas/hybrid version of its popular three-row SUV, featuring up to 320 miles of range and dual-motor all-wheel drive options. The move represents a significant shift for one of America's most iconic family vehicles, though it faces market headwinds as competing electric three-row SUVs like the Kia EV9 and Hyundai Ioniq 9 struggle with sales momentum and consumer hesitation about EV adoption in this segment.Read more â
The Verge...Samsungâs offering up to $900 of trade-in credit toward its new phonesSamsung is hosting an Unpacked event on February 25th to unveil the Galaxy S26 smartphone lineup, along with new wearables and an emphasis on Galaxy AI software features. The company is offering special trade-in promotions including up to $900 in trade-in value for existing phones and a $30 accessory credit for early preorder registrations.Read more â
CNET...Darren Aronofsky, Your AI Slop Is Ruining American History in 'On This DayâŠ1776'Darren Aronofsky's Primordial Soup studio launches On This DayâŠ1776, a generative AI-created short film series depicting pivotal American Revolution moments, showcasing both the promise and pitfalls of AI in creative filmmaking. While the series demonstrates technical advancement in photorealism and features human contributions in storyboarding and editing, it suffers from waxy character faces, lip-sync issues, and heavy-handed direction that undermines meaningful narrative and emotional depth.Read more â
Gizmodo...Moderna Has a Promising New Flu mRNA Vaccine. Trumpâs FDA Wants Nothing to Do With ItThe FDA refused to review Moderna's experimental mRNA flu vaccine despite Phase III trial data showing safety and efficacy comparable to or better than existing flu vaccines. The rejection, signed by FDA official Vinay Prasad and reportedly made against the objections of FDA scientists, reflects the current administration's broader stance against mRNA technology and represents a significant shift in vaccine approval standards that could have implications for future vaccine development.Read more â
TechCrunch...DOJ says Trenchant boss sold exploits to Russian broker capable of accessing âmillions of computers and devicesâPeter Williams, former general manager of Trenchant (L3Harris division), pleaded guilty to stealing and selling eight hacking tools to a Russian broker for over $1.3 million in cryptocurrency between 2022 and 2025. The exploits could have enabled surveillance, cybercrime, and ransomware attacks affecting millions of computers worldwide, directly compromising U.S. intelligence interests and harming allied nations.Read more â
Engadget...The Helldivers movie will star Jason Momoa and hits theaters on November 10, 2027Jason Momoa will star as the lead soldier in the upcoming Helldivers film adaptation, directed by Justin Lin and scripted by Gary Dauberman, releasing November 10, 2027. The movie adapts the co-op shooter franchise inspired by Starship Troopers, marking a significant video game-to-film project with established filmmaking talent.Read more â
CNET...iOS 26.3 Is Rolling Out Right Now. Here's Everything New to Expect on Your iPhoneApple released iOS 26.3, a maintenance update focused on infrastructure improvements rather than major new features. Key additions include end-to-end encrypted RCS messaging support, easier data transfer from iPhone to Android, notification forwarding to third-party devices, expanded privacy controls for location sharing, and refreshed wallpaper options.Read more â
Gizmodo...Thomas Edison Tried to Build an EV Battery in 1901. Scientists Just Made It WorkUCLA researchers have developed a modern reimagining of Thomas Edison's nickel-iron battery design using nanotechnology, incorporating metal clusters within protein structures inspired by natural bone formation. The prototype demonstrates rapid charging capabilities and extended cycle life, making it well-suited for solar energy storage and backup power applications rather than vehicle propulsion.Read more â
TechCrunch...Why the economics of orbital AI are so brutalSpaceX and other tech companies are planning to deploy solar-powered orbital data centers across millions of satellites to shift AI compute into space, with Musk claiming this will be the cheapest approach within 36 months. However, current orbital data centers cost nearly three times more than terrestrial alternatives due to high satellite manufacturing and launch costs, requiring an 18-fold reduction in launch prices and significant technological advances in thermal management, radiation shielding, and inter-satellite communications to become economically viable.Read more â
The Verge...Microsoft fixes Notepad flaw that could trick users into clicking malicious Markdown linksMicrosoft has fixed a serious security vulnerability affecting Markdown files in Notepad. In the company's Tuesday patch notes, Microsoft says a bad actor could carry out a remote code execution attack by tricking users "into clicking a malicious link inside a Markdown file opened in Notepad," as reported earlier by The Register. Clicking the link […]Read more â
The Verge...Here are the 40 best Presidents Day deals you can already shopFebruary brings a surge of tech deals across multiple categories including headphones, speakers, TVs, smartwatches, and gaming titles, with significant discounts tied to Presidents Day, Valentine's Day, and Super Bowl promotions. Major savings are available on premium products like Apple AirPods Max ($100 off), LG OLED TVs (up to $1,403 off), and gaming titles like Star Wars Outlaws (70% off), with most deals valid through mid-February.Read more â
Gizmodo...Jason Momoa Will Be a Starship Trooper in Sonyâs âHelldiversâ MovieJason Momoa has been cast as the lead in Sony Pictures' Helldivers film adaptation, directed by Fast & Furious veteran Justin Lin, set to release November 10, 2027. The casting leverages Momoa's action-movie experience and proven success with video game adaptations, as he continues his busy slate of upcoming genre films.Read more â
The Verge...Why âdeletedâ doesnât mean gone: How police recovered Nancy Guthrieâs doorbell footageFBI recovered deleted doorbell footage from Google's servers in the Nancy Guthrie missing person case by accessing residual data, raising questions about cloud storage privacy and data deletion. While technically possible through complex forensic processes, such recovery is resource-intensive and typically reserved for high-profile cases, though users can mitigate risks by using local storage or end-to-end encrypted cloud services.Read more â
The Verge...Threadsâ new âDear Algoâ feature lets you tell the algorithm what you want to seeUsers can now customize their feed content by making posts and requesting adjustments directly. This feature enables personalized control over the information displayed to individual users.Read more â
TechCrunch...Threadsâ new âDear Algoâ AI feature lets you personalize your feedThreads has launched 'Dear Algo,' an AI-powered feature allowing users to temporarily personalize their feed by posting requests for more or less of specific content, with adjustments lasting three days. The public-facing feature enables community discovery while giving Threads a competitive advantage over rival platforms like X and Bluesky by offering real-time, user-controlled feed curation.Read more â
TechCrunch...Google releases the first beta of Android 17, adopts a continous developer release planGoogle released the first beta of Android 17, introducing a continuous Canary channel for developer access to APIs instead of traditional developer betas, enabling faster feature deployment similar to Chrome's development model. The release includes performance improvements, new camera APIs, mandatory responsive design for large-screen devices, and a planned Q2 2026 launch following Google's new two-release annual cadence.Read more â
Engadget...Meta turned Threads algorithm complaints into an official featureMeta has introduced a new feature on Threads that allows users to directly communicate with the platform's recommendation algorithm by writing posts beginning with 'dear algo' to request specific content topics or filter out unwanted posts. The requests are temporary, lasting only three days, and users can manage, track, and modify their algorithm preferences directly within the app's settings.Read more â
CNET...I Bought the Galaxy Z TriFold for Over $3,000. Follow Along as I Test It (Live Updates)A CNET journalist successfully purchased Samsung's Galaxy Z TriFold during its US launch, securing one of the extremely limited units that sold out within minutes. The device, priced at $2,900, features a unique dual-folding design and will be tested for its practical functionality as a phone-tablet hybrid over the coming weeks.Read more â
TechCrunch...How AI changes the math for startups, according to a Microsoft VPMicrosoft's Amanda Silver discusses how agentic AI systems are creating a major opportunity for startups by reducing operational costs, much like the cloud did previously. Enterprise agents are already demonstrating significant value through multi-step automation in tasks like dependency updates, live-site incident response, and package inspections, though adoption has been slower than expected primarily due to unclear business use cases rather than safety concerns.Read more â
The Verge...Ableton Live is adding audio streaming for real-time musical collaborationLink Audio enables local network audio sharing and collaboration, providing a more efficient alternative to traditional file transfer methods like email for project work. This solution streamlines workflow by allowing direct audio file sharing within connected networks.Read more â
CNET...Best Desks of 2026: Iâve Spent Nearly 4,000 Hours Testing Desks. These Are the Ones You WantCNET provides comprehensive desk reviews covering standing desks, gaming desks, executive desks, and specialized options, tested for assembly time, structural integrity, and ergonomic design. The article presents detailed assessments of top-performing models from brands like SecretLab, Branch, and Eureka, with guidance on selecting desks based on specific use cases and space requirements.Read more â
TechCrunch...UpScrolledâs social network is struggling to moderate hate speech after fast growthUpScrolled, a social network that surged to 2.5 million users following TikTok's U.S. ownership change, is struggling with content moderation and failing to remove racial slurs, hate speech, and antisemitic content from usernames, hashtags, and posts. The company acknowledged the problem and stated it is expanding its moderation team and upgrading technology infrastructure, but reported content remained online days after being flagged.Read more â
Gizmodo...Sleep Earbuds Are Getting Scarily AdvancedWireless earbuds are expanding beyond audio to become health-tracking and sleep-assistance devices, with companies like NextSense embedding EEG sensors to monitor and optimize sleep in real time. While options range from sophisticated health wearables requiring subscriptions to comfortable noise-cancelling earbuds, this emerging category demonstrates significant potential for improving sleep quality through wearable technology.Read more â
Gizmodo...One Mexican Cartel âDroneâ Near El Paso Airspace Was Actually Party Balloon: ReportThe U.S. Department of Defense ordered a 10-day shutdown of airspace over El Paso, Texas, citing Mexican cartel drones at the border, forcing medical evacuation flights to divert and disrupting emergency operations. The order was rescinded within hours after a White House meeting, but reports suggest the closure resulted from FAA-DOD miscommunication over anti-drone technology testing rather than an actual credible threat, with at least one shot-down object being a party balloon.Read more â
CNET...Best Standing Desks of 2026CNET tested numerous standing desks and identified the Uplift V3 Standing Desk as the best overall option, offering excellent build quality, extensive customization, and an unusually low height range that accommodates floor seating. Standing desks provide health benefits by reducing sedentary time, decreasing back and neck pain, and improving productivity, with models available across various price points and configurations to suit different needs and budgets.Read more â
The Verge...Instagram and X have an impossible deepfake detection deadlineIndia has mandated that social media platforms remove illegal AI-generated content within three hours and clearly label all synthetic content by February 20th, putting pressure on tech companies to advance deepfake detection systems. The ruling affects major platforms with hundreds of millions of Indian users and may drive global adoption of content authentication standards like C2PA, though current detection and labeling systems remain inadequate for compliance.Read more â
Engadget...NordVPN deal: Get two years of the Complete plan for 70 percent offNordVPN is offering up to 78 percent off its subscription plans, with the Complete tier available for $130 over two years. The Complete plan includes VPN service, NordPass password manager, ad blocker, and 1TB of cloud storage, positioning it as a competitive option against other premium VPN services.Read more â
Gizmodo...Top Chinese Chipmaker Warns Rapid Data Center Buildout Plan Is Half-BakedChina's top chipmaker SMIC warned that tech giants are racing to build excessive AI data center capacity without clear demand, with major companies projected to spend over $3 trillion on buildout over three years. The situation mirrors the dot-com bubble, but poses unique risks since AI chips have limited useful lifespans of 2-6 years and rapidly depreciate as newer models emerge annually, potentially leaving companies with billions in stranded assets if demand doesn't materialize in time.Read more â
Engadget...TikTok US launches a local feed that leverages a user's exact locationTikTok US launched a local feed feature enabling users to discover nearby restaurants, shops, and events based on precise location data collected through updated terms of service. The opt-in feature defaults to off but represents a broader strategy to attract small businesses as content creators and advertisers while potentially addressing regulatory concerns.Read more â
CNET...Fitbit's Gemini-Powered Coach Is Coming to iPhone and Other CountriesGoogle is expanding its AI-powered Fitbit app redesign to iPhone users and five additional countries starting February 10, featuring a Gemini-powered Coach that provides personalized fitness guidance and adjusts workout plans based on real-time health metrics. The app transformation aims to shift Fitbit from a passive fitness tracker into a proactive AI-driven wellness companion that interprets data and suggests actions, with availability limited to Fitbit Premium subscribers during the public preview phase.Read more â
Gizmodo...The Director of âPredator: Badlandsâ Goes Deep on the Ending, Callbacks, Deleted Scenes, and MoreDirector Dan Trachtenberg discusses the development and success of Predator: Badlands, which earned 86% on Rotten Tomatoes and grossed nearly $200 million. He details the intentional homages to the original Predator and Aliens films, including the protagonist's Dutch-inspired suit-up sequence and the Power Loader final battle, while explaining how the film evolved through multiple iterations and test screenings to become its own distinct entry in the franchise.Read more â
CNET...The People Shaping How We Think About AI Have a Responsibility to Tell the Whole TruthThe article critiques the one-sided promotion of AI technology by public figures and influencers who emphasize benefits while omitting significant risks such as job displacement, environmental impact, misinformation, and copyright infringement. The author argues that celebrities and platforms have a responsibility to present a complete, honest picture of AI's capabilities and dangers rather than engaging in selective marketing that serves corporate interests at the expense of public understanding.Read more â
CNET...AI's Biggest Risk Is the Story We're Not Being ToldThe article critiques how public figures and media present AI technology with one-sided marketing pitches that emphasize benefits while omitting significant risks and limitations. The author argues that celebrities, tech experts, and influencers have a responsibility to present balanced information about AI's real dangersâincluding job displacement, environmental impact, misinformation, and privacy concernsârather than promoting it uncritically for financial gain.Read more â
Engadget...Netflix is reportedly filming the Stranger Things Broadway show this weekNetflix is filming the Broadway production of Stranger Things: The First Shadow to create a streaming recording, with several public performances paused to accommodate production. The play, a critical and commercial success that won multiple Tony Awards, serves as a canonical prequel exploring Henry Creel's backstory before he becomes Vecna.Read more â
Gizmodo...T-Mobile Will Start Testing Live Translation on Calls, No App RequiredT-Mobile announced a beta test for an AI-powered live translation feature that works directly on its 4G and 5G networks, supporting real-time translation in over 50 languages without requiring a separate app or subscription. The feature, launching this spring, will allow customers to activate translation during calls by dialing 87, enabling seamless multilingual conversations across any device connected to T-Mobile's network.Read more â
TechCrunch...Senior engineers, including co-founders, exit xAI amid controversyAt least nine engineers, including two co-founders, have publicly announced their departures from xAI within the past week, with more than half of the founding team now having left the company. The exits come amid regulatory scrutiny over Grok's creation of nonconsensual deepfakes and broader questions about xAI's governance and institutional stability as it faces competition from rivals like OpenAI and Anthropic.Read more â
Engadget...The best VPN service for 2026This article reviews the best VPN services available in 2026, analyzing their features, speeds, pricing, and security. It highlights that while many quality VPN options exist, the market contains numerous low-quality services, and the article provides detailed recommendations along with guidance on what factors to consider when choosing a VPN provider.Read more â
Engadget...A four-pack of Apple's first-gen AirTags is on sale for $64Apple's first-generation AirTag four-packs are currently available at 35% off for $64, bringing the per-unit price to approximately $16 compared to the regular $29 price. These Bluetooth trackers integrate seamlessly with Apple's Find My network, allowing users to locate lost items through sound alerts or precision finding via their iPhone.Read more â
The Verge...TikTok launches Local Feeds in the USTikTok has launched 'Local Feeds' in the US, a new opt-in feature that uses GPS location data to display localized content about travel, events, restaurants, and local businesses. The feature, available only to users 18 and over with location tracking active only during app use, represents TikTok's first major feature rollout under its new ownership following a recent system outage.Read more â
CNET...Premier League Soccer: Stream Man City vs. Fulham Live From AnywhereManchester City will face Fulham in a Premier League match on February 11 at 2:30 p.m. ET, with the match available to stream on Peacock Premium in the US. A City victory would move them within 3 points of league-leading Arsenal in their title pursuit, while Fulham seeks to recover from recent losses and secure European qualification contention.Read more â
Gizmodo...NASA Thinks Boeingâs Starliner Can Fly in April, Which Is HilariousBoeing's Starliner spacecraft, which faced multiple technical failures during its June 2024 crewed test flight, has been modified for a cargo-only mission scheduled for April 2025. NASA and Boeing are addressing critical issues including helium leaks and thruster malfunctions, with potential for crewed flights resuming later in 2025 if the cargo mission succeeds, though significant testing and validation remain before any crew rotation can occur.Read more â
TechCrunch...Twilio co-founderâs fusion power startup raises $450M from Bessemer and Alphabetâs GVInertia Enterprises raised $450 million in Series A funding to develop high-powered lasers for a grid-scale fusion power plant planned to begin construction in 2030, building on breakthrough technology from Lawrence Livermore's National Ignition Facility. The startup aims to commercialize inertial confinement fusion by dramatically reducing costs through mass production of cheaper fuel targets and simplified laser systems compared to existing research facilities.Read more â
The Verge...Lifxâs two-pack of Matter-enabled smart color bulbs is down to $20Lifx released affordable smart LED bulbs priced at $10 per bulb after a discount, featuring Wi-Fi connectivity, Matter support, and compatibility with major smart home platforms like Google Home and Alexa. This represents a significant price advantage over competitors like Philips Hue while maintaining full dimmable color-changing capabilities and seamless integration across ecosystems.Read more â
Engadget...The best VPN deals: Up to 87 percent off ProtonVPN, Surfshark, ExpressVPN, NordVPN and moreThe article reviews current VPN deals offering 70-87 percent discounts on annual subscriptions from major providers like ExpressVPN, NordVPN, and Surfshark. It explains how to evaluate VPN quality and pricing, warning against misleading promotional tactics while highlighting features like speed, security, and streaming capabilities.Read more â
Gizmodo...The Samsung Galaxy S26 Will Be Exciting⊠if You Care About Galaxy AISamsung will unveil the Galaxy S26, S26+, and S26 Ultra on February 25, featuring new AI capabilities as the primary focus alongside hardware upgrades including the Exynos 2600 chip and enhanced camera systems. The flagship phones will emphasize Galaxy AI features and privacy protection technology, with the Ultra model offering superior camera specifications and performance compared to standard variants.Read more â
CNET...I Wore the Apple Watch and Oura Ring for Months. I'd Stick With This OneA comprehensive comparison of the Oura Ring and Apple Watch reveals they serve different purposes rather than competing directly. The Oura Ring excels at long-term health monitoring and detecting subtle body changes with minimal user interruption, while the Apple Watch dominates fitness tracking and daily connectivity with real-time workout metrics and safety features.Read more â
The Verge...Here are the brands bringing ads to ChatGPTOpenAI officially launched its advertising pilot in ChatGPT, leaving us with a better idea of the kinds of products we might see stuffed beneath our conversations with the AI chatbot. Several companies have announced plans to show ads inside ChatGPT - placements that will reportedly cost them a pretty penny - ranging from major retailers […]Read more â
Gizmodo...The âKnight of the Seven Kingdomsâ Showrunner Isnât Worried About Becoming âGame of ThronesâKnight of the Seven Kingdoms showrunner Ira Parker expressed confidence that the series can avoid the creative pitfalls that plagued Game of Thrones and House of the Dragon by maintaining close collaboration with author George R.R. Martin. Parker revealed he has access to Martin's notes on potential storylines beyond the three published Hedge Knight novellas, reducing the risk of the show diverging from source material.Read more â
The Verge...Reanimal wants to devour youReanimal is a dark action-platformer from Tarsier Studios that evolves the Little Nightmares formula with a more mature, unsettling aesthetic and explicit wartime allegory. The game follows two children navigating grotesque landscapes filled with monstrous creatures, offering finely crafted gameplay reminiscent of Playdead's titles while exploring themes of conflict, suffering, and human atrocity with unflinching visual storytelling.Read more â
TechCrunch...Former Founders Fund VC Sam Blond launches AI sales startup to upend SalesforceMonaco, a new AI-native sales platform co-founded by ex-Founders Fund VC Sam Blond, has raised $35 million and emerged from stealth. The startup differentiates itself by combining AI sales agents with human experts in the loop, targeting early-stage startups with an integrated CRM and prospect database rather than replacing human salespeople entirely.Read more â
TechCrunch...Upside Robotics is reducing fertilizer use and waste in corn cropsUpside Robotics has developed solar-powered autonomous robots that optimize fertilizer application in corn fields, reducing fertilizer waste from 70% to just 30% usage and delivering approximately $150 in savings per acre per season. The Waterloo-based startup has demonstrated strong market traction with 100% customer retention, expansion from 70 acres in 2024 to over 3,000 acres projected for 2026, and recently closed a $7.5 million seed round to scale operations and expand into the U.S. corn belt.Read more â
TechCrunch...Amazon Pharmacy to expand same-day delivery to nearly 4,500 US citiesAmazon Pharmacy is expanding same-day prescription delivery to approximately 4,500 U.S. cities by year-end, adding nearly 2,000 new communities including Idaho and Massachusetts. The expansion leverages Amazon's logistics network alongside its pharmacy services, including the RxPass program that offers Prime members unlimited generic medications for $5 monthly.Read more â
Engadget...Pick up Apple's Magic Mouse while it's on sale for $68Amazon is offering a 14% discount on Apple's USB-C Magic Mouse, bringing the price down to $68. The rechargeable mouse features multi-touch gesture controls and works with Mac, iPad, and Windows devices, though the charging port remains on the underside, making it unusable while charging.Read more â
Engadget...Presidents' Day sales 2026: The best early tech deals to shop this week from Apple, Sony, Samsung and othersEngadget has curated a comprehensive guide to Presidents' Day tech deals available across various price ranges, featuring discounts on popular devices from Apple, Beats, Amazon, Google, and other major brands. The deals span from budget-friendly items under $50 to premium purchases like smartphones and TVs, with savings ranging from 14% to 58% off regular prices.Read more â
CNET...Google Pixel 10A Rumors: Colors, Announce Date, PreordersGoogle will officially reveal the Pixel 10A on February 18, marking an unusually early launch for the company's affordable smartphone line. The device is expected to feature similar specifications to its predecessor with a 6.3-inch display, Tensor G4 processor, dual rear cameras, and a starting price around $499, positioning it competitively ahead of Samsung's Galaxy S26 and Apple's rumored iPhone 17E.Read more â
Gizmodo...Hair Extensions Found to Contain Dozens of Hazardous ChemicalsResearch from the Silent Spring Institute found that hair extensions commonly contain toxic chemicals linked to cancer and health problems, including flame retardants, dyes, and organotins not typically found in consumer products. The study analyzed 43 popular hair extension brands and identified hazardous chemicals in all but two products, highlighting the need for stronger government regulation and ingredient disclosure requirements.Read more â
The Verge...Diesel's wired earbuds look exactly like wired earbuds from DieselDespite evidence to the contrary, not only are wired earbuds alive and well, they're enjoying a resurgence. Brands like Belkin and even respected headphone maker Master & Dynamic now offer tethered earbuds again. Even the Italian fashion brand Diesel has decided wired headphones are still cool and has launched a pair of earbuds it describes […]Read more â
Gizmodo...The Biggest Year in âMagic: The Gatheringâ Brought Some Good News for Classic PlayersMagic: The Gathering generated $1.7 billion in profit for Hasbro in 2025, with crossover sets like Final Fantasy and Avatar driving 60% growth. Despite the dominance of licensed "Universes Beyond" sets, the recent Lorwyn Eclipsed set achieved record sales for original Magic content, suggesting crossovers are attracting new players who remain engaged with the core game.Read more â
The Verge...The Switch 2âs GameShare multiplayer turns this horror game into an unexpected comedyTokyo Scramble, a Switch 2 exclusive survival horror game, uses the GameShare multiplayer feature in an unconventional way by allowing up to four players to control different aspects of the same character, such as movement, camera, and actions. The cooperative gameplay transforms the tense solo experience into a chaotic and comedic challenge that requires constant verbal communication between players, creating a unique multiplayer dynamic unlike traditional games.Read more â
TechCrunch...Build a pipeline and close deals with an exhibit table at TechCrunch Disrupt 2026TechCrunch Disrupt 2026 (October 13-15 in San Francisco) offers startups exhibit tables to access 10,000+ founders, investors, and decision-makers for direct lead generation and fundraising opportunities. The exhibitor package includes booth space, 10 passes, app-based lead capture, and prominent brand visibility across the event's digital and physical channels.Read more â
Engadget...Uber Eatsâ new Cart Assistant feature is an AI hack for your grocery shoppingUber has launched Cart Assistant, an AI-powered feature in the Uber Eats app that automatically fills grocery baskets by processing shopping lists, handwritten notes, or recipe screenshots. The feature considers product availability, pricing, and promotions while allowing users to manually adjust selections, and currently operates in beta mode.Read more â
CNET...You'll Never Miss Another Deal Again Because I'm Sending Them Right to Your PhoneCNET offers a free text subscription service delivering hand-picked deals from shopping experts who verify authentic discounts and product availability. The service focuses on genuine savings rather than inflated list prices, with curated offers typically under $50sent directly to subscribers' phones.Read more â
Engadget...Anker's new 45W Nano charger with smart display is on sale for $10 offAnker introduced a new 45W Nano charger with a smart display at CES 2026 that shows real-time charging data, power flow, and temperature monitoring. The charger automatically adjusts metrics based on the device being charged to extend battery lifespan and is compatible with iPhone, Apple Watch, AirPods, and Samsung devices, currently available on Amazon for $30.Read more â
TechCrunch...TikTok launches an opt-in Local Feed in the U.S. leveraging usersâ precise locationTikTok launched a Local Feed feature in the U.S. that displays location-based content for travel, news, events, shopping, and dining, powered by precise location data collection that is opt-in by default. The feature aims to help users connect with their local community and generate real-world traffic for small businesses, with 7.5 million businesses currently using TikTok to reach customers globally.Read more â
Engadget...The iPhone Air MagSafe battery is cheaper than ever right nowApple's iPhone Air MagSafe battery pack, priced at $79 on sale, offers a slim 7.5mm design that adds minimal bulk while providing an extra 65 percent charge to the iPhone Air and can also charge AirPods Pro 3. At a 20 percent discount from its regular $99 price, the accessory is considered essential by some users seeking to maintain the phone's thin-and-light profile without sacrificing daily battery needs.Read more â
TechCrunch...Integrate raises $17M to move defense project management into the 21st centuryIntegrate, a Seattle-based collaboration platform founded by John Conafay, has secured a $17 million Series A led by FPV Ventures to expand its government-focused project management software. The company specializes in enabling secure collaboration between private aerospace companies and U.S. Department of Defense agencies on classified projects, addressing a critical gap left by civilian tools like Jira and Asana that lack government security compliance. With validation from a $25 million Space Force contract, Integrate plans to expand across other military branches and government agencies.Read more â
Gizmodo...The New âStargateâ Is Adding a Familiar Face in a Surprising WayThis article provides updates on several entertainment projects including Brie Larson's creature horror film now titled Skeletons, the upcoming Mummy 4 with a completed script, and the sequel In a Violent Nature 2 heading to post-production. Additional coverage includes new footage from Scream 7, Spider-Noir starring Nicolas Cage, and casting details for the new Stargate TV series.Read more â
CNET...Recovery Slides Are My Feet's Best Friend. Here Are My Top PicksThis article is a product review guide for recovery slides, which are cushioned footwear designed to reduce foot pain and support recovery from athletic activities or plantar fasciitis. The author recommends several models including Oka, Oofos, Vktry, Hoka, and Fleks, highlighting their specific features, fit characteristics, and suitability for different foot types and preferences.Read more â
The Verge...How an âicepocalypseâ raises more questions about Metaâs biggest data center projectMeta is constructing a $27 billion data center in rural Louisiana that will consume three times the electricity of New Orleans annually, prompting concerns from local residents and advocates about rising utility costs, grid reliability, and infrastructure strain. The project's power demands have intensified scrutiny following a recent ice storm that left hundreds of thousands without power, raising questions about whether the region's aging electrical grid can handle both climate disasters and the growing energy needs of AI infrastructure.Read more â
CNET...The Invisible Mistakes Ruining Your AI Art and How to Fix Them in SecondsAI image generators like DALL-E, Midjourney, and Stable Diffusion continue to struggle with anatomical accuracy, facial expressions, complex overlapping elements, and legal restrictions on trademarked content in 2026. The article provides practical troubleshooting techniques such as simplifying prompts, reducing the number of subjects, and using post-generation editing tools to address these recurring limitations and improve output quality.Read more â
CNET...55 of the Best TV Shows on Netflix That Will Keep You EntertainedThis article provides a curated list of recommended shows to watch on Netflix, helping viewers navigate the platform's extensive catalog and avoid spending hours searching without finding something worthwhile. It highlights popular series like Bridgerton Season 4, classic favorites, and critically acclaimed originals across various genres.Read more â
Gizmodo...PokĂ©mon Pokopia Could Be the Switch 2âs Biggest Sleeper HitPokĂ©mon Pokopia inverts the traditional PokĂ©mon formula by casting players as conservationists who create habitats to attract creatures rather than capture them, drawing inspiration from Minecraft and Stardew Valley. The game features a unique premise where players, as a Ditto with amnesia, revitalize an abandoned land by terraforming environments and reconstructing civilization, with support for single-player and cooperative multiplayer gameplay.Read more â
The Verge...Process Zero is even better with a little processing on the sideHalide's Process Zero v2 introduces HDR support and Apple RAW format capabilities while maintaining its minimal processing philosophy, addressing the tension between computational photography benefits and desired image control. The update allows photographers to capture both processed HEIC images and ProRAW files simultaneously, with new Tone Fusion controls for shadow adjustment, offering a middle ground between automatic phone processing and manual post-editing workflows.Read more â
The Verge...Pokopia turns the PokĂ©mon world into a relaxing, human-free paradisePokopia is a new PokĂ©mon life simulation game for Nintendo Switch 2 that blends Animal Crossing-style gameplay with PokĂ©mon mechanics, where players control a Ditto building habitats and befriending monsters on an island. The game combines relaxing island-building with hints of a darker underlying mystery about a desolate world, appealing to both casual players and adult fans seeking creative gameplay experiences.Read more â
TechCrunch...Complyance raises $20M to help companies manage risk and complianceComplyance, an AI-native governance, risk, and compliance platform, announced a $20 million Series A funding round led by GV to expand its enterprise customer base. The company automates manual compliance tasks and enables continuous risk monitoring that previously required weeks or months of manual audits, helping enterprises protect consumer data more efficiently.Read more â
TechCrunch...Humanoid robot startup Apptronik has now raised $935M at a $5B+ valuationApptronik, a University of Texas spinout building humanoid robots for clients including Google DeepMind, announced it has raised an additional $520 million in its extended Series A round, bringing the total to $935 million at a post-money valuation of $5.3 billion. The company's investors, including Google, Mercedes-Benz, and B Capital, paid progressively higher prices in each funding extension, with the valuation now roughly triple the initial Series A, reflecting strong demand for embodied AI robots designed for warehouse and industrial tasks.Read more â
TechCrunch...Meridian raises $17 million to remake the agentic spreadsheetMeridian, a new AI-powered financial modeling platform, has raised $17 million in seed funding to transform how spreadsheet-based financial analysis is conducted. The company operates as an IDE-like workspace that combines agentic AI with deterministic tooling to make financial models more auditable and predictable while reducing hallucinations common in enterprise AI deployments.Read more â
Engadget...Pokemon Pokopia is so damn cozyPokĂ©mon Pokopia is a cozy life-sim game combining Animal Crossing and Stardew Valley mechanics, where players control a Ditto rebuilding an abandoned town by transforming into other PokĂ©mon to use their abilities. The game introduces community-building features with PokĂ©mon characters that speak in full sentences and offer quests, alongside town renovation and multiplayer elements.Read more â
CNET...I Test Meal Kits for a Living: These 7 Mistakes Are Costing YouThis article provides guidance on maximizing value from meal kit subscriptions, noting that they now cost competitively with grocery stores due to inflation. The author highlights seven common mistakes subscribers make, including missing sign-up discounts, choosing wrong plan sizes, poor recipe selection, and cooking mistakes, with practical tips to optimize savings and enjoyment.Read more â
CNET...14 Excellent Horror Movies to Watch on HBO MaxHBO Max offers a comprehensive collection of horror films, including titles like Bring Her Back, The Substance, and The Conjuring: Last Rites, making it a strong option for horror enthusiasts. The service is available at $11/month or $110/year, with a free option through DoorDash DashPass.Read more â
Engadget...The 512GB Samsung P9 microSD Express card is 33 percent offSamsung's P9 microSD Express card is currently discounted to $80 for the 512GB model, offering 33% off and featuring transfer speeds up to 800MB/s. The card is essential for Nintendo Switch 2 storage expansion and is compatible with other devices including Steam Deck and cameras.Read more â
Gizmodo...7 Weird Space Phenomena That Only Make Sense if Dark Matter ExistsDark matter, comprising approximately 85% of the universe's mass, remains undetected but is crucial for explaining astronomical phenomena including galaxy rotation, gravitational lensing, and cosmic microwave background variations. Its gravitational influence is widely accepted by astronomers as essential for understanding black holes, supernovas, galaxies, and the structure of the universe itself.Read more â
Engadget...The Apple Watch Series 11 drops to $299 ahead of Presidents' DayThe Apple Watch Series 11 is currently available at a 25 percent discount for $299, down from its regular $399 price during Presidents' Day sales. The 2025 model features over 24 hours of battery life, a thin design, and new health metrics including hypertension alerts and Sleep Score, earning it recognition as the best smartwatch overall.Read more â
The Verge...El Paso flights grounded 10 days for âspecial security reasonsâThe Federal Aviation Administration has closed airspace around El Paso International Airport in Texas for 10 days starting February 10th due to unspecified security reasons, affecting approximately 480 Southwest flights and other major carriers. The unexpected closure was announced with minimal notice and without explanation to local officials, prompting congressional representatives to request clarification and reversal of the restrictions.Read more â
Gizmodo...Hubble Zooms in on the Mysterious Egg Nebula, and Itâs More Spectacular Than EverNASA's Hubble Space Telescope captured a detailed image of the Egg Nebula, a dying star system 1,000 light-years away that is undergoing a rare pre-planetary nebula phase lasting only a few millennia. The observation provides valuable insights into stellar evolution and the process by which aging stars expel material that seeds future star systems, including rocky planets like Earth.Read more â
CNET...Don't Freak Out, but You're Probably Eating a Credit Card's Worth of Plastic With These 8 FoodsMicroplastics have infiltrated major food sources including seafood, tea bags, rice, salt, bottled water, honey, produce, and proteins, with no established safe intake level. While long-term health effects require further research, experts recommend minimizing exposure by switching to glass containers, choosing loose-leaf tea, drinking tap water, and reducing consumption of filter-feeding shellfish.Read more â
CNET...Should You Keep All Plastic Out of the Microwave? Here's What Experts Told MeThe article examines microwave safety for different container materials, highlighting that microwave-safe labels are not federally regulated and do not guarantee health safety. Glass and ceramic are the safest options, while plastics can leach microplastics and chemicals like BPA into food when heated, particularly when damaged or reused frequently.Read more â
Gizmodo...Nicolas Cage Explains the Allure of Watching âSpider-Noirâ in Black and WhiteNicolas Cage stars in the upcoming Spider-Noir series, a 1930s film noir version of Spider-Man set to premiere on MGM+ this spring before moving to Prime Video. The show will be available in both color and black-and-white versions, with Cage advocating for the black-and-white presentation as better suited to the noir aesthetic while acknowledging both formats have distinct visual appeal.Read more â
Engadget...Mullvad VPN review: Near-total privacy with a few sacrificesMullvad is a privacy-focused VPN that stands out for its anonymity features, including account representation as randomly generated codes, cash payment options, and no marketing cookies. While it delivers strong security and privacy through WireGuard encryption and has passed rigorous independent audits, it trades some speed and streaming compatibility for its privacy-first approach.Read more â
The Verge...T-Mobile will live translate regular phone calls without an appT-Mobile is preparing to test a new AI feature that translates live phone calls into more than 50 languages. Live Translation is launching in beta "this Spring," according to a press release, with registration for eligible T-Mobile customers available starting today. "Some of the biggest barriers wireless customers face are the simplest ones - like […]Read more â
CNET...T-Mobile's Live Translation AI Agent Will Be Baked Into Your Phone CallsT-Mobile is launching a beta of Live Translation, a network-level AI feature that enables real-time translation during phone calls for over 50 languages without requiring app installation or specific device hardware. The service uses advanced AI models that can clone voices while preserving emotion and tone, with no setup requiredâusers simply press *87 during a call to activate the translation agent.Read more â
CNET...What Is Hybrid Meat? The Healthy Eating Hack ExplainedThe article explores three emerging meat alternatives: hybrid meats that blend animal protein with plant ingredients, cultured/lab-grown meats produced from animal cells in bioreactors, and plant-based analogues. Hybrid meats offer immediate market availability with reduced saturated fat and calories while maintaining meat's taste and texture, making them a practical option for consumers seeking to reduce meat consumption without eliminating it entirely.Read more â
CNET...These Netflix Movies Star A-List Actors, but You've Probably Never Seen ThemNetflix produces acclaimed original films but some featuring major Oscar-nominated stars like TimotheĂ© Chalamet and Ethan Hawke have disappeared from public attention despite critical acclaim. The article explores whether the algorithm, content quality, or oversaturation of streaming releases are responsible for certain Netflix films failing to gain traction.Read more â
Gizmodo...Paramount Wants to Shell Out on âTeenage Mutant Ninja TurtlesâParamount is revitalizing the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles franchise under new ownership, announcing multiple projects including a 2028 live-action/animated hybrid film, a CG web series, and expanding merchandise through Mattel as the new global toy license holder. The studio is also launching licensed tie-in fiction, TMNT-themed pizzerias, and positioning the franchise as a major strategic priority moving forward.Read more â
The Verge...Uber Eats adds AI assistant to help with grocery shoppingUber announced a new AI feature called "Cart Assistant" for grocery shopping in its Uber Eats app. The new feature works a couple different ways. You can use text prompts, as you would with any other AI chatbot, to ask it to build a grocery list for you. Or you can upload a picture of […]Read more â
Engadget...The 2027 Toyota Highlander is fully electric and has a 320-mile rangeToyota has unveiled the 2027 Highlander, its first fully electric three-row SUV and the first EV it will assemble in the US, marking a significant expansion of its EV lineup. The vehicle offers up to 320 miles of range depending on configuration and will be available in multiple trim levels with front-wheel or all-wheel drive options starting in late 2026.Read more â
Engadget...Elon Musk's latest scheme is a satellite catapult on the MoonElon Musk has outlined ambitious plans for xAI to build a lunar AI satellite factory with a electromagnetic catapult system to launch sun-powered satellites into orbit, creating a massive space-based data center cooled by the vacuum of space. The proposal requires significant preliminary steps including lunar orbit capability, surface landing, and establishing a moon colony, representing a major shift from Musk's previous Mars-focused strategy.Read more â
CNET...9 Mistakes Youâre Making on an Exercise BikeThis article outlines nine common mistakes people make when using exercise bikes, including improper seat height and handlebar positioning, skipping warm-ups and cool-downs, lack of structured workout planning, and inadequate bike maintenance. Following proper form and training principles can significantly improve workout effectiveness, prevent injury, and help users achieve their fitness goals more efficiently.Read more â
The Verge...âShut up and focus on the missionâ: Tech workers are frustrated by their companiesâ silence about ICETech workers at major companies like Microsoft, Google, and YouTube report a culture of fear and silence regarding ICE violence and immigration enforcement, with CEOs largely staying silent despite multiple deaths and public protests. Employees are frustrated by leadership's focus on business continuity over ethical concerns and their companies' growing ties to the Trump administration, with grassroots petitions demanding public action and contract cancellation.Read more â
CNET...Best Speakers of 2026This CNET article is a buyer's guide reviewing various speaker options across different categories and price points, from budget Bluetooth speakers to high-end home theater systems. The guide highlights top picks in each category including smart speakers, soundbars, tower speakers, and computer speakers, with emphasis on sound quality and value for money.Read more â
CNET...I Tested 5 Bestselling Cheap Kitchen Gadgets from AmazonAmazon's bestselling kitchen gadgets were tested for value and effectiveness. While some tools like meat smashers and garlic crushers proved essential and worth purchasing, others such as egg separators and jar openers offered limited utility or inconsistent performance, with the microwave cleaner recommended to be skipped entirely.Read more â
Engadget...The best MacBook accessories for 2026This article reviews essential MacBook accessories for 2026, including webcams, docking stations, charging solutions, peripherals, and stands designed to enhance productivity and ergonomics. The recommendations cover practical upgrades from major brands like Logitech, Anker, Belkin, and Mophie that improve the MacBook experience through added ports, better video conferencing quality, and more comfortable working positions.Read more â
Gizmodo...âTruly Beyond Words!â: Teslaâs Conflict with a German Labor Union Is Getting Out of HandTesla filed a criminal complaint against a union representative from IG Metall for allegedly secretly recording a works council meeting at its Berlin Gigafactory, escalating ongoing labor tensions over wages and working conditions. The incident reflects broader conflict as IG Metall seeks a 35-hour workweek and raises ahead of March works council elections, amid Tesla's declining European sales and speculation about potential factory closure.Read more â
Engadget...The best smart plugs in 2026This comprehensive guide reviews the best smart plugs available in 2026, covering indoor and outdoor options with detailed recommendations on compatibility with major platforms like Alexa, Google Home, HomeKit, and SmartThings. The article explains key features including setup processes, Matter protocol integration, energy monitoring capabilities, and practical use cases while helping consumers navigate the complexities of smart home ecosystems.Read more â
TechCrunch...Samsung to hold its Galaxy S26 event on February 25Samsung will unveil its Galaxy S26 smartphone series on February 25 in San Francisco, featuring enhanced Galaxy AI integration and a new privacy display that allows users to hide sensitive information from onlookers. The flagship model will offer improved processors (Snapdragon Elite Gen 5 or Exynos 2600), a 5,100 mAh battery with faster charging, and updated Galaxy Buds 4 earbuds.Read more â
TechCrunch...With co-founders leaving and an IPO looming, Elon Musk turns talk to the moonElon Musk told xAI employees the company needs a lunar manufacturing facility to build AI satellites and gain superior computing power, marking a significant strategic shift from SpaceX's previous Mars focus. The announcement comes amid departures of key xAI founders and reflects Musk's broader vision of integrating data from Tesla, Neuralink, SpaceX, and other ventures into a world model AI system, though significant technical, organizational, and legal challenges remain unclear.Read more â
Gizmodo...OpenAI Safety VP Reportedly Fired for Sexual Discrimination Against Her Male ColleagueOpenAI fired VP of Product Policy Ryan Beirmeister in early January, with the company citing sexual discrimination allegations against a male colleague, which Beirmeister denies. The termination occurred amid internal disagreement over a proposed adult mode feature for ChatGPT, which Beirmeister had opposed, though OpenAI's statement claims her departure was unrelated to any issues she raised.Read more â
Gizmodo...Worldâs Dumbest People Think They Can Solve the Nancy Guthrie Ransom Case With GrokSocial media users are attempting to use generative AI tools like Grok to remove a mask from FBI surveillance footage in the Nancy Guthrie kidnapping case, but AI cannot provide information beyond what exists in images and is generating fabricated faces with no relation to the actual suspect. This trend of AI-assisted speculation, which also occurred in previous high-profile cases, creates misinformation risks as unrealistic AI-generated images spread on social platforms.Read more â
The Verge...The Toyota Highlander is now a three-row electric SUV with 320 miles of rangeToyota unveiled the 2027 Highlander, its first three-row electric SUV assembled in America, featuring up to 320 miles of range and advanced infotainment with 5G connectivity. The vehicle represents Toyota's strategic shift toward EVs while leveraging domestic manufacturing to avoid tariffs and utilizing the familiar Highlander nameplate to appeal to mainstream consumers in the popular midsize SUV segment.Read more â
TechCrunch...OpenAI policy exec who opposed chatbotâs âadult modeâ reportedly fired on discrimination claimOpenAI vice president of product policy Ryan Beiermeister was terminated in January following a male colleague's sex discrimination allegation, which she denies. Her firing came after she raised concerns about a planned ChatGPT 'adult mode' feature introducing erotica, though OpenAI stated her departure was unrelated to any issues she raised.Read more â
TechCrunch...Okay, now exactly half of xAIâs founding team has left the companySix of xAI's twelve founding team members have departed over the past year, including two co-founders who left this week, raising concerns about the company's stability ahead of an anticipated IPO. The departures come amid challenges with Grok's performance and issues with the company's image-generation tools, potentially creating friction within the technical team during a critical growth phase.Read more â
Gizmodo...Ford Had Its Biggest Net Loss Since the Recession Due To EV TroublesFord reported its worst quarterly earnings in four years with an $8.2 billion net loss in 2025, largely driven by $4.8 billion losses in its electric vehicle division following the elimination of the federal EV tax credit. The company is pivoting from full electrification to partial electrification and plans to develop an affordable $30,000 EV with autonomous driving capabilities by 2028, while facing intense competition from subsidized Chinese EV makers.Read more â
CNET...Today's NYT Connections: Sports Edition Hints and Answers for Feb. 11, #506This article provides hints and answers for The New York Times' Connections: Sports Edition puzzle, a word-grouping game published by The Athletic. The puzzle features four categories themed around sports terminology, including baseball at-bat roles, Big 12 college mascots, famous sports personalities named Bob, and soccer slang terms.Read more â
The Verge...Amazon Ringâs Super Bowl ad sparks backlash amid fears of mass surveillanceRing's new Search Party feature, which uses AI to find lost dogs, has sparked privacy concerns following a Super Bowl advertisement. Critics worry the technology could be repurposed for human surveillance, especially given Ring's partnerships with law enforcement and Flock Safety, raising questions about potential mission creep from pet-finding to mass surveillance capabilities.Read more â
Engadget...Samsung Galaxy Unpacked 2026: Everything we're expecting from the S26 launch on February 25Samsung will unveil the Galaxy S26 lineup on February 25, 2026, featuring incremental upgrades including the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chip, slightly larger displays, and improved batteries across all models. The company will also introduce the Galaxy Buds 4, a thinner Galaxy S26 Edge variant, and potentially new AI features including an updated Bixby assistant and integration with Perplexity's search engine.Read more â
Gizmodo...If Youâre Shopping for a Discounted Car at a Dealer Lately, It Might Be Lightly⊠TotaledMainstream car dealerships may increasingly stock salvage-titled vehiclesâlightly damaged cars with legitimate non-safety issuesâdue to high demand and rising used car prices driven by supply chain issues, inflation, and tariffs. While these vehicles often require only minor repairs or have minimal damage, this trend represents a shift in dealer practices that could blur quality expectations for buyers seeking affordable used cars.Read more â
CNET...Ecovacs' Latest Robot Lawn Mowers Can Run Wire-FreeEcovacs introduces the Goat LA3000 and A2000 LiDAR Pro robot lawn mowers with wire-free navigation using advanced LiDAR technology and AI-powered edge trimming, eliminating the need for boundary wires and manual edging. These models feature dual-blade design for faster mowing, can handle yards up to three-fourths acre, and use AI cameras to recognize and avoid over 200 objects while maintaining two-centimeter accuracy during operation.Read more â
The Verge...Boston Dynamics CEO Robert Playter is stepping down after six yearsRobert Playter, CEO of Boston Dynamics for six years, is stepping down effective February 27th after leading the company through its acquisition by Hyundai and the launch of its all-electric Atlas humanoid robot. CFO Amanda McMaster will serve as interim CEO while the board searches for a permanent replacement as Boston Dynamics prepares to deploy robots in Hyundai's manufacturing plants starting in 2028.Read more â
CNET...Lymow's New Robot Lawnmower Can Mow Your Lawn, Mulch and Cross Hills TooThe Lymow OnePlus robot lawn mower is now available for preorder at $2,499 to $2,699, featuring wire-free navigation via RTK-VSLAM technology, advanced mulching with a cyclone airflow system, and tracked treads for improved traction on uneven terrain. The redesigned model includes reinforced cutting mechanisms, improved durability, and autonomous mowing capabilities across lawns of varying sizes with optional battery sizes.Read more â
The Verge...Bezos could have saved the Washington Postâs local news and sports reportersThis article covers multiple tech policy developments including Jeff Bezos's puzzling ownership of The Washington Post amid recent layoffs and a failed acquisition by Washington City Paper, and a Senate hearing where Newsmax CEO Chris Ruddy testified against a proposed $6.2 billion Nexstar-Tegna merger that would concentrate television ownership. The piece also discusses various political influence campaigns, revelations about tech moguls in Epstein files, and Super Bowl tech-related news.Read more â
TechCrunch...Amazon may launch a marketplace where media sites can sell their content to AI companiesAmazon is reportedly planning to launch a marketplace where publishers can license content directly to AI companies, following Microsoft's similar Publisher Content Marketplace initiative. This move represents the tech industry's effort to address copyright infringement concerns and provide publishers with legal revenue streams for AI training data.Read more â
The Verge...ChatGPTâs deep research tool adds a built-in document viewer so you can read its reportsOpenAI has enhanced ChatGPT's deep research tool with a dedicated full-screen viewer featuring a table of contents, source list, and real-time progress tracking. Users can now specify websites for research, edit scope during generation, and export reports in multiple formats including Markdown, Word, and PDF, rolling out to Plus and Pro subscribers immediately and free users soon.Read more â
Gizmodo...10 Years Ago, âDeadpoolâ Made Wade Wilson the Peopleâs ClownThe article examines Deadpool's cultural impact on superhero cinema since its 2016 debut, crediting the R-rated film with opening doors for more adult-oriented cape fare like The Boys and Logan. Ryan Reynolds' successful reinvention of the character through irreverent comedy established a new template for edgier superhero films, though the piece questions whether this comedic style has been overused industry-wide and what will become of the character when Reynolds eventually steps away.Read more â
The Verge...Samsungâs next Unpacked is confirmed for later this monthSamsung's Galaxy S26 series will focus on software improvements rather than major hardware upgrades, with a confirmed reveal date of February 25th. Key changes include a slightly larger battery in the standard model and faster camera apertures for improved low-light performance, while maintaining similar overall specifications to the previous generation.Read more â
Engadget...Samsung's Galaxy S26 Unpacked event is on February 25Samsung will unveil the Galaxy S26 series and Galaxy Buds 4 at an Unpacked event on February 25, featuring the new Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chip and enhanced Galaxy AI capabilities. The S26 Ultra is expected to receive major upgrades including an updated camera system and Qi2 charging support, while the earbuds will introduce head gesture controls and Ultra Wideband technology.Read more â
TechCrunch...An ice dance duo skated to AI music at the OlympicsCzech ice dancers KateĆina MrĂĄzkovĂĄ and Daniel MrĂĄzek used AI-generated music in their Olympic rhythm dance routine, which is permitted under current rules but has sparked controversy. The AI-generated compositions closely mimic existing songs from artists like Bon Jovi and New Radicals, raising questions about copyright and the role of artificial creativity in competitive ice skating.Read more â
The Verge...Trumpâs new âBuy Americanâ requirement for EV charging would dramatically curtail build-outIt seems clear at this point to say that Donald Trump does not want to spend a single dime on EV charging. He tried to freeze $5 billion in funding for the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) program, which was approved as part of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. And when a federal judge ordered the […]Read more â
Gizmodo...Checking in on Polymarket: Bets on Christâs Return Jump on Bets That Bets on Christâs Return Will JumpPrediction markets on Polymarket are experiencing artificial price inflation for a bet on Jesus Christ's return in 2026, driven by traders betting on a secondary market that wagers on whether the original odds will exceed 5% by February 17. Traders are financially incentivized to push up the primary market odds to profit from their secondary market positions, demonstrating how derivative betting markets can distort underlying prediction odds through arbitrage opportunities.Read more â
Gizmodo...Spotify Founderâs Drone Startup Wins German Military ContractsHelsing, a Munich-based defense startup backed by Spotify founder Daniel Ek, secured a deal worth up to âŹ1.46 billion to supply unmanned kamikaze drones to German armed forces, alongside Peter Thiel-backed Stark which could earn âŹ2.86 billion. The deal has intensified controversy around Ek's involvement in defense technology, prompting artists like Massive Attack to boycott Spotify over concerns that fan money funds lethal military technologies.Read more â
Gizmodo...âKnight of the Seven Kingdomsâ Is Using the âGame of Thronesâ Theme Better Than âHouse of the Dragonâ Ever DidKnight of the Seven Kingdoms creatively subverts expectations by initially mocking the iconic Game of Thrones theme with a comedic bathroom break scene, then powerfully reintegrates it in the season finale when the hero Dunk receives unexpected support from a noble prince. This earned musical callback elevates the show's smaller scope by blending the grandeur of the original theme with its own folksy score, creating a more meaningful use of Djawadi's composition than House of the Dragon's straightforward reuse.Read more â
Engadget...The NLRB just gave up on SpaceX workers who claim they were illegally firedThe NLRB dropped its case against SpaceX for illegally firing eight employees who criticized CEO Elon Musk in 2022, after the National Mediation Board ruled that SpaceX falls under its jurisdiction rather than the NLRB's. SpaceX successfully argued it should be regulated as an airline due to its commercial spaceflight operations and FAA license, establishing a significant precedent for how space companies are classified under labor law.Read more â
CNET...Rivian Could Let Drivers Adjust Their EV's Cabin from an Apple Watch, Report SaysRivian is developing a standalone Apple Watch app that will enable drivers to remotely control their vehicles, including locking doors, opening windows, and activating alarms directly from their wrist. This app will bring feature parity between the Apple Watch and iPhone app, and will also expand Apple Watch digital key functionality to Rivian's Gen 1 vehicles from 2021-2024 models.Read more â
The Verge...Fitbit expands access to its AI health coachGoogle is expanding its Fitbit AI personal health coach powered by Gemini to iOS users in the U.S. and both iOS and Android users in several international markets, building on its initial October Android-only launch. The feature, available to Fitbit Premium subscribers on 14 supported devices, enables users to chat with an AI assistant that creates personalized workout routines and health recommendations.Read more â
CNET...Want to Watch the 2026 Winter Olympics? You Can Stream the Games Without CableThe 2026 Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics are underway in Italy, featuring thousands of athletes competing across multiple regions in the most geographically spread Winter Games ever. Viewers in the US can stream all events live in 4K on Peacock or through NBC's linear broadcasts via YouTube TV, DirecTV, and other platforms, with the Games running through February 22.Read more â
Gizmodo...Google Now Lets Users Remove Explicit Images and Other Personal Info From Search ResultsThe search giant announced new tools aimed at giving people more control over how their information appears online.Read more â
CNET...Sony Could Be Improving Sound and Features on Its Next EarbudsSony's upcoming WF-1000XM6 earbuds will feature enhanced active noise cancellation with eight microphones, a faster QN3e processor, and improved internal components including a new speaker and DAC. The earbuds maintain the same 8-hour battery life with ANC enabled as the previous model while introducing a new matte pill-shaped design in black or white colorways.Read more â
TechCrunch...Boston Dynamics CEO Robert Playter steps down after 30 years at the companyBoston Dynamics CEO Robert Playter is stepping down after leading the company since 2020, with CFO Amanda McMaster taking over temporarily while the company searches for a permanent replacement. Playter, who spent 30 years at the robotics firm, oversaw the commercialization of the company's flagship Spot robot and recent announcement of the Atlas humanoid robot.Read more â
TechCrunch...VC Masha Bucher, Epstein associate and Day One founder, explains herselfSilicon Valley VC Masha Bucher acknowledged her extensive business and personal relationship with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, appearing over 1,600 times in recently released Epstein files. Bucher, who worked as Epstein's publicist starting in 2017 to rehabilitate his reputation following his 2008 sex trafficking conviction, apologized to her founders, team, and investors, stating she was naive and failed to conduct sufficient due diligence on Epstein's background.Read more â
Gizmodo...The Trump Phone Looks as Bad as It SoundsTrump Mobile's T1 smartphone has been revealed in photos, featuring a gold plastic design and outdated specifications including a Snapdragon 7 chip and 50-megapixel cameras. The device, originally scheduled for August or September, is now expected to launch in mid-March 2026 at a $499 price point for early reservations, with future buyers potentially paying close to $1,000.Read more â
The Verge...Ayaneoâs new Windows handheld will cost up to $4,299 with maxed out specsThe Ayaneo Next 2 is a portable gaming device weighing 3.14 pounds that features an exceptionally large battery capacity, exceeding that of most traditional laptops. This enhanced battery capacity provides extended gameplay and usage time for users of the handheld gaming platform.Read more â
Gizmodo...Olympic Figure Skaters Get Heat for Using AI-Generated MusicCzech figure skaters Katerina Mrazkova and Daniel Mrazek performed to an AI-generated song at the Milan Olympics that incorporated music elements from AC/DC's 'Thunderstruck' and the New Radicals' 'You Get What You Give,' raising concerns about copyright and artistic integrity in Olympic figure skating. The use of AI-generated music highlights ongoing challenges with music rights clearance at international sporting events, where skaters must navigate complex licensing issues with multiple rights holders.Read more â
TechCrunch...Google sent personal and financial information of student journalist to ICEGoogle provided personal data including addresses, phone numbers, and financial information about a British student and journalist to ICE in response to an administrative subpoena that lacked judicial approval. The incident highlights concerns about government agencies using administrative subpoenas to de-anonymize individuals critical of administration policies without proper legal oversight.Read more â
