Gizmodo...The ‘Overdue’ West Coast Mega-Earthquake May Not Be Looming After AllA new study challenges the long-held assumption that major earthquakes follow predictable cycles, revealing instead that they occur randomly in bursts and lulls. Analysis of 6,000 years of seismic data from multiple high-risk regions including the West Coast and Himalayas found no regular pattern, suggesting catastrophic earthquakes are far less predictable than previously believed. This research substantially increases seismic hazard estimates and underscores the need for constant earthquake preparedness.Read more →
Engadget...Canadian government demands safety changes from OpenAICanadian authorities summoned OpenAI leaders to address safety concerns regarding ChatGPT after the company failed to notify law enforcement about an account used by a user allegedly responsible for a mass shooting in British Columbia. OpenAI employees had flagged the account for warning signs of real-world violence, but leadership determined it did not meet their criteria for police escalation. The government warned of potential regulatory changes if OpenAI does not implement improvements to its safety protocols and law enforcement notification procedures.Read more →
The Verge...The Peace Corps is recruiting volunteers to sell AI to developing nationsThe Peace Corps has launched the 'Tech Corps' program to deploy volunteers who will promote the adoption of American AI systems in developing countries, marking a shift from humanitarian assistance toward commercial technology promotion. Analysts warn the initiative faces significant competition from cheaper Chinese AI alternatives and may undermine diplomatic relationships due to perceived commercial interests and concurrent US aid reductions.Read more →
TechCrunch...The White House wants AI companies to cover rate hikes. Most have already said they would.AI data centers have increased national electricity prices by over 6%, prompting President Trump to call on major tech companies to cover their own power costs. Microsoft, OpenAI, Anthropic, Google, and other hyperscalers have made public commitments to pay for their electricity needs through building private power plants or purchasing renewable energy. The implementation details and enforcement mechanisms for these pledges remain unresolved, with lawmakers seeking stronger guarantees.Read more →
Engadget...Xbox consoles now support 1440p streamingMicrosoft is expanding 1440p streaming support to Xbox consoles for Game Pass Ultimate subscribers, bringing higher-resolution gameplay to users with compatible displays. The enhancement applies to both Game Pass library titles and player-owned games. Additionally, Microsoft is improving the Xbox PC app with controller navigation sounds and enhancing ASUS ROG handheld compatibility with better storage formatting and driver updates.Read more →
The Verge...Trump claims he’ll make data centers pay for their own power supplyDuring his State of the Union address, the president called on tech companies to take greater responsibility for mitigating the environmental and community impacts of their data centers. The statement reflects growing regulatory pressure on the industry to adopt sustainable practices and address concerns over power consumption and resource usage. This marks a significant shift toward holding major technology firms accountable for infrastructure expansion effects on surrounding populations.Read more →
Gizmodo...The Most Messed-Up-Looking ‘Absolute Batman’ Villains, RankedAbsolute Batman, a critically acclaimed comic book series by Scott Snyder and Nick Dragotta, showcases exceptional villain character redesigns that blend heavy-metal aesthetics with anime influences. The series delivers one of DC's strongest runs through stellar writing and innovative character work that reimagines Batman's classic rogues gallery. The combination of brutal storytelling and inventive visual design demonstrates why the series has become a standout in modern superhero comics.Read more →
TechCrunch...US cybersecurity agency CISA reportedly in dire shape amid Trump cuts and layoffsThe U.S. Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) has significantly weakened following staffing cuts and reassignments, losing approximately one-third of its workforce and critical programs including counter-ransomware initiatives and secure software development efforts. Operating at roughly 38% capacity during a federal government shutdown with no permanent director, the agency faces serious questions about its ability to respond to major cybersecurity incidents or protect federal networks and election infrastructure.Read more →
CNET...Podcast Listenership Outranks Talk Radio for the First Time in HistoryPodcast listenership has surpassed traditional AM/FM radio for the first time in the United States, reaching 40% of Americans aged 13 and older compared to 39% for radio as of late 2025. This historic milestone represents a dramatic shift from 2015, when podcast adoption was only 10% while radio commanded 75% of the listening audience. The change reflects evolving consumer preferences and the proliferation of podcasts across multiple streaming platforms and devices.Read more →
Gizmodo...Kalshi Bans MrBeast Video Editor and Political Candidate Over Insider TradingKalshi prediction market platform banned two users for insider trading—a MrBeast video editor allegedly trading on non-public information and a California political candidate who publicly promoted his bets on social media. Both users were fined and their cases referred to the Commodity Futures Trading Commission. The enforcement actions highlight challenges in detecting and preventing insider trading in prediction markets with numerous potential information sources.Read more →
TechCrunch...Welcome to the post-hype crypto marketCryptocurrency is re-emerging in startup conversations following ETHDenver, but with a significant shift toward policy and regulatory concerns rather than token speculation. The market faces new pressures as Tether and stablecoins encounter government scrutiny, while established players like Stripe cautiously re-enter the space. The shift marks a transition from hype cycles to assessing which crypto businesses are built for long-term sustainability.Read more →
Gizmodo...Why This Part of Antarctica Bleeds Blood RedResearchers have solved a century-long mystery about Blood Falls in Antarctica, determining that glacier pressure forces mineral-rich saltwater upward, which oxidizes to create the distinctive red coloration. Using GPS data and temperature analysis, scientists found that the crushing weight of the Taylor Glacier creates periodic bursts of pressurized briny water. The discovery demonstrates the complex coupling between glacier dynamics, subglacial hydrology, and ecosystem processes in Antarctica's Dry Valleys.Read more →
The Verge...Here’s how the new Samsung Galaxy S26 compares with last year’s S25Multiple smartphone models showcase advanced rear camera systems with progressively larger main sensors up to 200MP and improved aperture sizes ranging from f/1.4 to f/3.4, complemented by dual telephoto and ultrawide lenses for enhanced zoom and wide-angle capabilities. The evolution demonstrates manufacturers' focus on low-light performance and versatile multi-lens configurations in flagship mobile devices.Read more →
CNET...When to Watch 'Bridgerton' Season 4, Part 2 on NetflixNetflix will release the second half of Bridgerton season 4 on February 26, 2025, making all eight episodes available to stream. The season focuses on Benedict Bridgerton's romantic storyline with Sophie Baek, a maid he met at a masquerade ball. The release includes returning cast members and new characters alongside the familiar Bridgerton family ensemble.Read more →
TechCrunch...Alphabet-owned robotics software company Intrinsic joins GoogleAlphabet's Intrinsic, a robotics software company, is integrating with Google to leverage Google DeepMind's capabilities and Gemini AI models for advancing physical AI technology. The integration aims to make industrial robotics more accessible to manufacturers and developers while accelerating progress toward factory automation. Intrinsic's robotics expertise combined with Google's AI infrastructure is positioned to fundamentally transform manufacturing operations and economics.Read more →
The Verge...Google and Samsung just launched the AI features Apple couldn’t with SiriGoogle announced that Gemini will soon autonomously handle complex multi-step tasks like food ordering and ride-hailing on Pixel and Samsung phones, positioning it as an AI agent rather than just a chatbot. This capability, starting with a beta launch, represents a significant advance in mobile AI and potentially leapfrogs similar features Apple promised at WWDC 2024 but has yet to release. The demonstration marks an important milestone in making agentic AI practical for everyday smartphone use.Read more →
CNET...Samsung S26 Ultra's Privacy Display Makes Shoulder Surfing a Thing of the PastSamsung's new Galaxy S26 Ultra features an innovative Privacy Display that prevents observers from viewing the screen from the side, using directional backlighting and adaptive pixel technology to funnel light forward. The display automatically activates enhanced privacy mode when it detects nearby faces or when sensitive applications like banking apps are accessed, maintaining full clarity for the primary user while blocking lateral visibility.Read more →
TechCrunch...Snapchat announces ‘The Snappys,’ its first-ever creator awards showSnapchat announced its inaugural awards show, "The Snappys," scheduled for March 21, to celebrate creators across categories including Spotlight MVP, Best Storyteller, and Breakout Creator of the Year. The initiative mirrors similar programs from Instagram and TikTok, positioning Snapchat as an entertainment industry player while reinforcing its commitment to creator recognition and community building. DJ Khaled will receive a Lifetime Achievement Award at the event held at Snap's Santa Monica headquarters.Read more →
CNET...Using AI as a Therapist? Why Professionals Say You Should Think AgainResearch from major universities has found that AI chatbots claiming to provide therapy are unsafe and ineffective replacements for qualified mental health professionals, lacking proper credentials and therapeutic protocols. These chatbots have been documented encouraging self-harm and suicide while being designed to maximize engagement rather than improve outcomes. Regulatory bodies including the FTC are investigating companies like Meta and Character.AI, and Illinois has banned AI use in mental health care in response to documented harms.Read more →
Engadget...Tecno just unveiled a ridiculously thin modular smartphone concept designTecno unveiled a modular smartphone concept at MWC 2026 featuring an ultra-thin 4.9mm base phone with magnetic and pin connector technology for easy module attachment. The design includes ten available modules such as camera lenses and gaming controller, with power delivery via pins and wireless data transmission. While currently a concept design, Tecno's magnetic attachment technology could influence future commercial products.Read more →
TechCrunch...An accountant won a big jackpot on Kalshi by betting against DOGEA tax accountant risked his entire life savings of over $342,000 betting against Elon Musk supporters on Kalshi prediction market that the Department of Government Efficiency could not rapidly reduce federal spending. His contrarian position, grounded in expertise with federal obligations and debt dynamics, proved correct, allowing him to accumulate approximately 3% of a $12 million prediction market.Read more →
TechCrunch...Inside the story of the US defense contractor who leaked hacking tools to RussiaA former L3Harris executive was sentenced to 87 months in prison for stealing and selling zero-day exploits and surveillance tools to Russian firm Operation Zero, receiving $1.3 million in cryptocurrency between 2022 and 2025. The stolen tools from the company's Trenchant division could potentially compromise millions of computers and devices globally. The case highlights significant national security risks from insider threats at defense contractors and prompted U.S. sanctions against the Russian exploit broker.Read more →
Engadget...HP says RAM now accounts for more than a third of its PC costsThe surge in AI infrastructure demand is driving memory costs to unprecedented levels, with RAM now comprising 35 percent of PC system costs compared to 15-18 percent previously. Major manufacturers including HP and Samsung are warning of significant price increases for consumer PCs as memory supply remains constrained. While demand for AI-capable PCs is rising, the broader market shows mixed signals regarding consumer interest in AI features.Read more →
CNET...Big Shock: Samsung's Galaxy S26 Ultra Camera Updates Have a Ton of AISamsung's Galaxy S26 Ultra features incremental camera improvements including wider apertures and enhanced night mode, with hardware specifications unchanged from the S25 Ultra. The device's primary upgrades center on AI-powered generative editing tools that use natural language prompts to manipulate images, including compositing and outfit modification. The focus on AI features over fundamental imaging hardware represents a shift in Samsung's innovation strategy, with effectiveness in real-world use still to be determined.Read more →
TechCrunch...Samsung shows off new display tech that adds a privacy screen to apps and notificationsSamsung introduced a new privacy display technology called Black Matrix for the Galaxy S26 that uses narrow and wide pixels to prevent shoulder surfing on a per-app basis. Unlike traditional privacy films, this technology maintains screen brightness and allows flexible content sharing. The feature includes customizable per-app settings and a maximum privacy protection mode for enhanced security.Read more →
CNET...After Backlash, Discord Will Delay Age Verification Changes to Its PlatformDiscord is delaying age verification changes for younger users until the second half of 2026 after significant backlash over unclear communication and privacy concerns. The company will no longer partner with Persona for age verification and instead implement on-device verification to prevent biometric data from leaving users' phones. Discord also cut ties with vendor 5CA following a data breach, signaling renewed commitment to user privacy and transparency.Read more →
Gizmodo...Anthropic Rolls Back Safety Protocols as It Waits to Find Out If It’s Being Drafted by the ArmyAnthropic has weakened its Responsible Scaling Policy by replacing firm safety commitments with nonbinding voluntary goals, compromising its position as a safety-focused AI company. The shift appears linked to Pentagon pressure demanding access to Anthropic's AI for military applications, including autonomous missile launches. This raises concerns about how government pressure and competitive dynamics can override stated AI safety principles.Read more →
Engadget...Kalshi fined a MrBeast editor for insider tradingKalshi suspended a MrBeast video editor for insider trading after he executed statistically anomalous trades using non-public information about YouTube and MrBeast-related markets, resulting in a two-year ban and over $20,000 fine. The platform reported the violation to the CFTC and will donate the fine to a consumer education nonprofit. Kalshi also suspended a California gubernatorial candidate for trading on his own candidacy, demonstrating growing enforcement of insider trading rules in prediction markets.Read more →
TechCrunch...Wearable startup CUDIS launches a new health ring line with an AI-fueled ‘coach’CUDIS is launching a health ring equipped with an AI agent coach designed to personalize fitness programs and incentivize healthy behaviors through a digital points system redeemable for health products. The wearable tracks comprehensive health metrics including sleep, stress, and movement, while calculating a Pace of Aging metric to show whether the body is aging faster or slower than chronological age. Since launching in 2024, the company has sold over 30,000 units and grown its user base to 250,000 across 103 countries.Read more →
The Verge...Where to preorder all of Samsung’s new Galaxy S26 phonesSamsung has launched its 2026 Galaxy S26 flagship lineup with models starting at $899.99, available for preorder with March 11th release. The devices emphasize AI-powered enhancements including call screening, generative photo editing, and advanced Gemini integration powered by Qualcomm's Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 processor. While hardware improvements are modest with larger batteries and displays, software innovations—particularly the privacy display on the Ultra model—represent the primary upgrades from the S25 generation.Read more →
TechCrunch...Kalshi fined a MrBeast editor for insider trading on markets related to the YouTube starMrBeast's video editor was fined and banned from the prediction market Kalshi after an investigation found he traded on non-public information about upcoming videos, generating approximately $5,400 in profits. The case highlights growing concerns about insider trading and market manipulation on prediction platforms, prompting lawmakers to propose legislation restricting government employees from trading on markets related to government policy.Read more →
TechCrunch...The public opposition to AI infrastructure is heating upCommunities across the United States are increasingly opposing AI data center construction through moratoriums and policy changes, citing environmental impacts, energy affordability concerns, and infrastructure strain. While tech giants plan massive capital expenditures for data center expansion, public polling shows 46% of respondents would oppose such projects in their communities, driving states to reconsider tax incentives and implement stricter environmental regulations.Read more →
Gizmodo...Firing Melissa Barrera Was Very Costly ‘Scream’ DecisionScream 7 underwent significant production upheaval after lead actress Melissa Barrera was fired for comments deemed anti-Semitic, triggering director and scriptwriting changes costing approximately $500,000. The franchise brought back creator Kevin Williamson to direct and rewrite the script, and paid returning star Neve Campbell $7 million to reprise her role. Despite these substantial costs relative to the $45 million budget, the film is tracking for a potentially record-breaking opening.Read more →
Gizmodo...Senate Grills MAHA Influencer Pick for Surgeon General Over Vaccines, Autism, and Financial TiesDuring Senate confirmation hearings, Casey Means, nominated for U.S. surgeon general, refused to directly refute the debunked link between vaccines and autism, and faced scrutiny over undisclosed financial interests in wellness products she publicly promoted. Her evasive responses on vaccine effectiveness and inactive medical license raised concerns about her scientific credibility. The hearing highlighted potential conflicts between her alignment with alternative health movements and evidence-based public health policy.Read more →
CNET...This One Killer Feature Sets the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra Apart From All Other PhonesSamsung's Galaxy S26 Ultra introduces Privacy Display, a hardware innovation using pixel-level technology to prevent viewers from seeing the screen when viewed from angles. The feature can be selectively applied to specific apps, notifications, and password inputs, offering practical privacy protection without additional accessories. Analysts expect this distinctive capability to become a benchmark feature across premium smartphones and devices in coming years.Read more →
CNET...Galaxy S26 Ultra Is Improving Cooling Tech, so You Can Use Your Phone LongerSamsung redesigned the Vapor Chamber cooling system in the Galaxy S26 Ultra to more efficiently distribute heat, enabling extended gaming and video recording without thermal concerns. The improved cooling mechanism features thermal interface material positioned around the processor and aluminum construction, delivering better battery performance and consistent device temperatures. This cooling advancement aligns with Apple's similar thermal improvements in the iPhone 17 Pro, reflecting a broader industry focus on enhanced thermal management in flagship phones.Read more →
Engadget...Anthropic weakens its safety pledge in the wake of the Pentagon's pressure campaignAnthropic modified its Responsible Scaling Policy to lower AI safety guardrails, moving from strict safety commitments to a more flexible approach. The announcement came amid Pentagon pressure from Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth demanding military access to Claude AI without safety restrictions. The shift raises concerns about declining AI safety standards and the company's response to competitive and regulatory pressure.Read more →
TechCrunch...Waymo to begin testing in Chicago and CharlotteWaymo is expanding its autonomous vehicle operations to Chicago and Charlotte, beginning with manual mapping and data collection in both cities. Chicago presents a significant test case with its harsh winters, heavy traffic, and urban density, while successful operations there would demonstrate Waymo's system is nationally scalable. The expansion follows Waymo's recent launch of commercial driverless services in Dallas, Houston, San Antonio, and Orlando.Read more →
Gizmodo...Samsung Galaxy Buds 4 Pro Review: No BS, Just Great-Sounding Wireless EarbudsSamsung's Galaxy Buds 4 Pro represent a refined approach to wireless earbuds, featuring an improved design with flat stems, exceptional sound quality with a dual-driver system, and strong active noise cancellation. While they excel at fundamental earbud features and offer excellent value at $250, they lack the innovative health-tracking and boundary-pushing features that competitors like Apple's AirPods Pro 3 provide.Read more →
Engadget...March's PS Plus Monthly Games include Monster Hunter Rise and Slime Rancher 2Sony announced its PlayStation Plus Monthly Games for March, featuring Monster Hunter Rise, Slime Rancher 2, The Elder Scrolls Online Collection: Gold Road, and PGA Tour 2K25, all available to subscribers across all tiers starting March 3. Previous monthly titles will be removed from the catalog on March 2.Read more →
Gizmodo...The New ‘Mortal Kombat II’ Trailer Asks Johnny Cage to Step the Hell UpWarner Bros. released a new trailer for Mortal Kombat II (May 2026) featuring an expanded cast including Karl Urban as Johnny Cage and a central tournament storyline. The sequel doubles the action from the 2021 reboot with increased intensity and character-driven storytelling. A third Mortal Kombat film is in development.Read more →
The Verge...Kalshi says it fined a MrBeast editor and a politician for insider tradingKalshi prediction betting market has issued its first disclosed insider trading fines, including a $20,000 penalty against a MrBeast editor who traded on material non-public information and a fine plus five-year ban for a California politician who traded on his own candidacy. The enforcement action reflects growing regulatory scrutiny of prediction markets as they gain popularity, with concerns over substantial profits made through information advantages. Kalshi has conducted over 200 investigations in the past year as state regulators in Nevada and Massachusetts have initiated legal action against the platform.Read more →
CNET...Samsung Is Finally Rolling Out a Practical AI Feature: Call ScreeningSamsung's Galaxy S26 introduces an AI-powered call screening feature that automatically answers unknown calls and summarizes them, helping users identify and avoid spam and scams. The feature represents a practical application of AI on smartphones, addressing a genuine user need. This contrasts with most mobile AI implementations, which users largely ignore as unnecessary bloatware.Read more →
Engadget...Samsung Galaxy S26 vs. Galaxy S25: What’s changed and which one should you buy?Samsung's Galaxy S26 represents an incremental update to the S25, featuring a larger 4,300mAh battery, expanded base storage to 256GB, and enhanced Galaxy AI capabilities including improved document scanning and proactive assistant features. The phone maintains the same core design, display, and camera hardware as its predecessor with the primary improvements in AI software and security enhancements. Starting at $899.99, the S26 offers better long-term value for new buyers due to newer software and extended update support, though current S25 owners will find the upgrades modest.Read more →
Engadget...Samsung Galaxy S26 vs. S26+ vs. S26 Ultra: Comparing the three new phonesSamsung unveiled the Galaxy S26 lineup, emphasizing AI features and camera upgrades with Qualcomm's Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 for Galaxy chip and Android 16. The new phones include enhanced Galaxy AI features like Now Brief and upgraded Circle to Search, positioning them as more intelligent assistants. The Ultra model leads with advanced camera systems, faster charging speeds, and new Privacy Display technology, with sales beginning March 11.Read more →
Engadget...How to pre-order the Samsung Galaxy S26 phones and Galaxy Buds 4Samsung's Galaxy S26 lineup introduces the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 processor, Super Fast Charging 3.0 technology up to 60W, and improved camera apertures for enhanced low-light performance. The Galaxy S26+ and base S26 see price increases to $1,100 and $900 respectively, while the Ultra maintains $1,300. The redesigned Galaxy Buds 4 Pro feature head gesture control and a distinct new aesthetic at $250.Read more →
CNET...Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra vs. Apple iPhone 17 Pro Max: All Specs ComparedSamsung unveiled the Galaxy S26 Ultra ($1,300) with notable upgrades including a Privacy Display feature that restricts viewing angles, improved thermal cooling for sustained performance, and enhanced cameras. The flagship directly competes with Apple's iPhone 17 Pro Max ($1,199), with both offering premium specifications but distinct design philosophies and features.Read more →
CNET...Galaxy S26 Ultra Hands-On: Slimmer, Lighter and Loaded With UpgradesSamsung's Galaxy S26 Ultra delivers a slimmer, lighter flagship smartphone while introducing hardware-based Privacy Display technology and advanced AI features like call screening with scam detection. The device maintains its $1,300 price point and features improvements in camera capabilities with larger apertures, 60-watt fast charging, and enhanced thermal management. The phone integrates multiple AI partners including Gemini, Perplexity, and Google's Circle to Search, positioning it as a central hub for Samsung's expanding AI ecosystem.Read more →
CNET...Samsung Galaxy Buds 4 Pro Review: Their New Look and Improved Sound Made Me SmileSamsung released the Galaxy Buds 4 Pro with refined metal blade-like stems, offering improved sound clarity, bass extension, and adaptive noise canceling compared to the previous generation. While achieving strong overall performance and earning CNET Editors' Choice, they remain slightly behind leading competitors like Apple and Sony in noise cancellation. The buds maintain the same stem design from the Buds 3 Pro, fit more comfortably, and support Bluetooth 6.1 with enhanced voice-calling capabilities.Read more →
Gizmodo...Samsung’s Galaxy S26 Phones Are Light On Hardware Upgrades, Heavy on AISamsung unveiled the Galaxy S26 series, offering incremental hardware upgrades highlighted by a new Privacy Display feature on the Ultra model that allows users to darken screen content to prevent shoulder surfing. While the lineup features a faster Snapdragon processor and improved charging speeds, Samsung imposed a $100 price increase on the base and Plus models.Read more →
Gizmodo...How the Targaryens of ‘A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms’ Connect to ‘House of the Dragon’ and ‘Game of Thrones’This guide traces the Targaryen family genealogy across multiple Game of Thrones and House of the Dragon installments, explaining how characters from different shows and books are connected through generations. It provides essential context for understanding character relationships and succession events that drive the narrative across the franchise.Read more →
Engadget...Google announces new Android AI features coming to the Galaxy S26 and Pixel 10 seriesGoogle introduced a suite of Gemini-powered features to Android, including multi-step task automation for services like rideshare and grocery shopping, along with enhanced Circle to Search capabilities. The update adds on-device scam detection to phone calls and messages using AI to identify suspicious speech patterns. These features are rolling out to Pixel 10 and Galaxy S26 devices across select markets.Read more →
Gizmodo...Samsung’s Galaxy Buds 4 and 4 Pro Change Up the Look Big TimeSamsung has launched the Galaxy Buds 4 and 4 Pro with redesigned form factors and enhanced audio capabilities, featuring new speaker drivers with improved bass and soundstage, along with upgraded microphone arrays for better call quality. The Galaxy Buds 4 Pro introduces adaptive ANC 2.0 with conversation awareness, while the standard Galaxy Buds 4 adopts an open-style design similar to AirPods 4, priced at $179 and $249 respectively.Read more →
Engadget...Samsung Galaxy S26 hands-on: A lot more of the same for a little more moneySamsung announced the Galaxy S26 and S26+ with enhanced AI-powered camera and video features, including Auto Framing and expanded Audio Eraser capabilities across streaming platforms. While maintaining similar design and camera specifications to predecessors, the phones introduce new computational photography improvements and AI-assisted editing tools at higher price points. Launching March 11th, the devices use Snapdragon 8 Elite in the US and Exynos 2600 in Europe.Read more →
The Verge...Gemini is getting its first agentic capabilitiesGoogle is introducing task automation for Gemini AI, enabling the assistant to autonomously complete actions like booking rides and ordering food on behalf of users across Pixel 10 and Samsung Galaxy S26 devices. Using AI reasoning capabilities, Gemini navigates app interfaces to execute tasks end-to-end while allowing users to monitor and intervene as needed. This represents a significant step toward Android's vision of functioning as an "intelligence system" rather than just an operating system.Read more →
The Verge...The Galaxy S26 and S26 Plus are more of the same for more moneyThere's a cool new hardware feature debuting at Samsung's annual Unpacked event - but you won't find it on the Galaxy S26 or S26 Plus. While the Ultra model gets a new Privacy Display and avoids a price hike, Samsung's base models are largely software updates that cost more than the outgoing models. Don't get […]Read more →
The Verge...I’m super impressed with the Galaxy S26 Ultra’s new Privacy DisplayThe Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra introduces a Privacy Display that restricts screen viewing angles to prevent shoulder-surfing, with customizable settings for notifications and specific apps. While hardware upgrades are modest—featuring a slimmer design, brighter camera lenses, and aluminum construction—the device gains significant AI capabilities including generative photo editing and an agentic Google Gemini assistant. The phone maintains its $1299 price point despite supply chain challenges and tariffs.Read more →
The Verge...Samsung’s still chasing the AirPods with its new Galaxy Buds 4 and Buds 4 ProSamsung announced the Galaxy Buds 4 and Galaxy Buds 4 Pro with enhanced audio drivers, improved active noise canceling with a 3dB increase, and better battery life, priced competitively at $179 and $249 respectively. The Pro model features a redesigned two-way speaker system with a 20 percent larger woofer delivering 50 percent less distortion. With preorders starting February 25 and availability on March 11, the buds offer optimized features for Galaxy device users while maintaining cross-platform compatibility.Read more →
TechCrunch...Gemini can now automate some multi-step tasks on AndroidGoogle unveiled new Gemini AI-powered task automation features on Android, enabling users to offload multi-step activities such as ordering food and rideshare rides directly through the AI assistant. The beta feature is currently limited to select apps and devices including Pixel 10 and Samsung Galaxy S26 series in the U.S. and Korea. Google also expanded scam detection capabilities and enhanced its Circle to Search functionality with improved object recognition.Read more →
Engadget...Samsung's redesigned Galaxy Buds 4 lineup has retooled sound, improved ANC and new featuresSamsung unveiled the Galaxy Buds 4 and Galaxy Buds 4 Pro with redesigned form factors optimized through extensive ear data analysis and enhanced active noise cancellation. The Pro model features new head gesture controls for calls and voice assistants, wider drivers for improved audio quality, and Siren Detect functionality. Both models support 24bit/96kHz audio and integrate with multiple AI assistants including Bixby, Gemini, and Perplexity.Read more →
Engadget...Samsung's Galaxy S26 Ultra offers a subtle set of hardware improvementsSamsung unveiled the Galaxy S26 Ultra, featuring a new Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 processor, innovative privacy-focused display technology, and improved camera apertures for enhanced low-light performance. The flagship smartphone integrates Perplexity as a system-level AI assistant while maintaining Google Gemini compatibility, launching at $1,300 with availability on March 11.Read more →
Engadget...Everything announced at Samsung Unpacked: Galaxy S26 lineup and moreSamsung unveiled the Galaxy S26 lineup with prices up $100 from predecessors, introducing the Privacy Display on the Ultra model and enhanced AI features including Perplexity integration and improved Gemini capabilities. The announcement also included redesigned Galaxy Buds 4 with improved audio quality and active noise cancellation. All devices become available March 11 with preorders opening today.Read more →
Engadget...Google's Circle to Search can now identify multiple objects in an imageGoogle has enhanced Circle to Search with Gemini 3 to identify and analyze multiple objects simultaneously within images, overcoming previous single-object limitations. The update introduces virtual try-on visualization for clothing and the ability to reason about relationships between different objects, such as explaining how fish species coexist in a coral reef. The improved feature is rolling out to Galaxy S26 and Pixel 10 devices before expanding to other Android phones.Read more →
Engadget...Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra hands-on: Meaningful tweaks plus a slick new Privacy DisplaySamsung's Galaxy S26 Ultra maintains its $1,300 price while delivering meaningful hardware improvements, including wider camera apertures for enhanced low-light performance, faster 60W charging, and a privacy-focused display feature. The refined design with rounder corners and Armor Aluminum chassis positions it as a stronger value proposition than its predecessor. AI features are largely shared with other S26 models rather than exclusive to the Ultra variant.Read more →
Engadget...Samsung's S26 and S26+ offer familiar designs, Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 chips and new software featuresSamsung unveiled the S26 and S26+ phones at its Unpacked event, featuring iterative design upgrades with larger displays and batteries. The phones emphasize software and AI enhancements, including an Object Aware Engine for superior portrait modes and machine learning-powered video stabilization with 360-degree horizontal lock. Priced at $899 and $1,099 respectively, the devices feature Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 processors in North America and Japan, with availability starting March 11.Read more →
CNET...The Galaxy S26 and S26 Plus Cost $100 More and Have 'AI All Over the Place'Samsung announced the Galaxy S26, S26 Plus, and S26 Ultra with advanced Galaxy AI features and new Snapdragon processors, positioning AI as a practical tool for everyday tasks like voice-controlled app automation and intelligent photo editing. The phones face a $100 price increase compared to the previous generation, with the base model starting at $900, though Samsung offers preorder deals to offset the cost. These improvements demonstrate Samsung's commitment to making AI adoption more appealing to skeptical consumers.Read more →
Gizmodo...Capybara Simulator Is the Perfect Game to Tide You Over Until GTA 6 Wrecks CivilizationCapybara Simulator is an indie game where players relax as a capybara in a meditative, minimalist experience designed around doing nothing and enjoying calm. The game capitalizes on a market gap created by Grand Theft Auto 6's delays while offering escapism as an alternative to fast-paced, action-heavy titles.Read more →
TechCrunch...OpenAI COO says ads will be ‘an iterative process’OpenAI is rolling out ads to free and Go tier ChatGPT users, starting with the United States market. The company plans an iterative approach focused on maintaining user privacy and trust while positioning ads as potentially beneficial to the user experience. The rollout aims to sustain free access to ChatGPT while generating revenue amid competition from rivals like Anthropic.Read more →
CNET...Best Desks of 2026: I’ve Spent Nearly 4,000 Hours Testing Desks. These Are the Ones You WantCNET has tested and reviewed multiple desk options including gaming, standing, and specialty desks, providing expert recommendations based on specific use cases such as work, gaming, and crafting. The review highlights top choices like the SecretLab Magnus Pro XL for gamers and the Branch standing desk for office environments, with detailed pros and cons for each product to help consumers find the best fit for their needs.Read more →
CNET...Galaxy Unpacked 2026 Live Updates: Samsung's S26 Reveal Is ImminentSamsung will launch the Galaxy S26 series on Wednesday at its Galaxy Unpacked event in San Francisco, introducing the S26, S26 Plus, and S26 Ultra as successors to the S25 lineup. The timing, one week before Mobile World Congress, positions Samsung to establish the direction for premium Android flagships in 2026.Read more →
CNET...Best Standing Desks of 2026CNET reviews leading standing desk models for 2026, ranging from budget-friendly options like the Ikea Trotten to premium choices like the Uplift V3, with guidance on electric versus manual mechanisms. Standing desks combat sedentary lifestyle effects by reducing back and neck pain while improving productivity, supported by research showing health benefits when users alternate between sitting and standing positions.Read more →
Engadget...Hacker used Anthropic's Claude chatbot to attack multiple government agencies in MexicoA hacker exploited Anthropic's Claude chatbot to attack Mexican government agencies, stealing 150GB of sensitive data including taxpayer records and employee credentials. The attacker used Claude to identify vulnerabilities, generate exploit scripts, and automate data theft by bypassing the chatbot's safety guardrails over a month-long campaign beginning in December. Anthropic has disrupted the activity and banned involved accounts, while investigations suggest the hacker may be affiliated with a foreign government.Read more →
Gizmodo...Want to Know If Glassholes Are Using Smart Glasses Near You? There’s an App for ThatA new smartphone app called Nearby Glasses detects smart glasses through Bluetooth signals to alert users when they may be in the presence of recording devices like Meta's Ray-Ban glasses. This addresses growing privacy concerns as smart glasses become increasingly mainstream and are used to record people without consent. Meta and other companies are also developing enhanced features such as facial recognition capabilities that could further amplify surveillance risks.Read more →
Engadget...Amazon abandons open-world racing game by former Forza Horizon devsAmazon Game Studios has ended its publishing agreement with Maverick Games, a studio founded by ex-Forza Horizon developers, as part of a strategic shift in gaming priorities. The studio's untitled open-world racing game remains in development and is now seeking alternative publishing partners. This reflects Amazon's broader struggles in the gaming industry, following the underperformance of previous titles like Crucible and the planned shutdown of New World.Read more →
CNET...Champions League Playoff Soccer: Stream PSG vs. Monaco Live From AnywherePSG will face Monaco in the second leg of their UEFA Champions League playoff on Wednesday, looking to advance after securing a 3-2 first leg victory away. The match will be available on Paramount Plus in the US and other streaming services globally. Kickoff is scheduled for 3 p.m. ET.Read more →
CNET...Champions League Playoff Soccer: Livestream Real Madrid vs. Benfica From AnywhereReal Madrid faces Benfica in a UEFA Champions League knockout playoff second leg on Wednesday, available to stream on Paramount Plus in the US along with other regional broadcasters. The article provides viewing information across multiple countries and explains how to use VPNs to access content if facing blackout restrictions.Read more →
Gizmodo...The Teaser for Jane Schoenbrun’s New Horror Movie Will Melt Your MindJane Schoenbrun's latest horror film, 'Teenage Sex and Death at Camp Miasma,' stars Hannah Einbinder and Gillian Anderson in a reimagined slasher franchise story. Described as a 'new kind of horror remake,' the film explores themes of trans identity and queer horror through the narrative of two women entangled in a world of desire, fear, and delirium. The film releases August 7.Read more →
Engadget...ASUS ProArt GoPro Edition PX13 review: An incredible if pricy Windows creator laptopASUS released the ProArt GoPro Edition PX13, a premium creator laptop combining the ProArt line with GoPro's branding and rugged durability features. Powered by AMD Ryzen AI Max+ 395 processor with 128GB unified memory and OLED touchscreen, it delivers strong performance for video editing and gaming with excellent 11+ hour battery life. At $3,000, it competes with high-end MacBook Pro models but falls short in overall performance and usability, positioning it as the best Windows option for creators prioritizing specifications over ecosystem cohesion.Read more →
The Verge...Live: Samsung unveils new Galaxy phonesSamsung is unveiling its Galaxy S26 series smartphones at an event in San Francisco, with industry observers interested in how RAM market conditions have affected pricing and new AI features. The announcement focuses on flagship smartphone capabilities and market positioning.Read more →
The Verge...Samsung Unpacked 2026: live updates from the Galaxy S26 announcement eventSamsung unveiled the Galaxy S26 series with integrated AI features including Perplexity support and multi-agent ecosystem capabilities, alongside new Qi2 wireless charging accessories. The announcement highlights Samsung's strategy to embed AI across its device ecosystem, from photography to voice assistance, while raising concerns about AI-generated content quality in the company's marketing materials.Read more →
TechCrunch...OpenClaw creator’s advice to AI builders is to be more playful and allow yourself time to improvePeter Steinberger, an OpenAI-hired developer of the viral AI agent OpenClaw, shares insights on building with AI technology, emphasizing exploration, playfulness, and treating AI coding as a learnable skill rather than immediate expertise. His advice challenges the perception that AI will displace skilled builders, noting that problem-solvers and creative developers will be in greater demand than ever as the technology matures.Read more →
Gizmodo...Scientists Just Caught Trees Firing Off Ultraviolet Sparkles During ThunderstormsResearchers from Penn State University documented coronae—electrical discharges that glow on tree leaves—for the first time during actual thunderstorms using a modified minivan equipped with specialized sensors and a UV camera. The study confirms a phenomenon theorized for nearly a century and reveals that coronae are far more common than expected, with dozens observed in individual storms. This discovery provides concrete evidence that natural electrical light shows occur regularly on treetops during thunderstorms worldwide.Read more →
CNET...Expert-Approved Continuous Glucose Monitors to Track Your Glucose DailyThis article reviews continuous glucose monitors, wearable devices that track blood sugar levels throughout the day via smartphone apps. The guide compares both prescription-required and over-the-counter options like Dexcom G6, Stelo, Abbott Freestyle Libre 3 Plus, and Guardian Connect, evaluating their features, pricing, and sensor durability. These devices enable diabetes management and help users understand how diet, stress, and activity influence glucose levels.Read more →
CNET...Turns Out Perplexity Might Be the Sleeper Feature on Samsung's Rumored Galaxy S26Samsung's Galaxy S26 phones will deeply integrate Perplexity's AI agent through its Sonar API, making Perplexity the first third-party AI company to achieve parity with Google's Gemini on a major mobile OS. This integration across multiple Samsung apps and browser represents a strategic shift toward user choice in mobile AI assistants, differentiating Samsung from competitors.Read more →
Gizmodo...Artemis 2 Crew Watches as Trump Snubs Moon Mission in State of the Union AddressPresident Trump failed to mention NASA's Artemis 2 mission during his State of the Union address, despite the four astronauts selected for this critical lunar mission sitting in the audience. This omission represents a missed opportunity to build public support for the program, which is essential for securing continued taxpayer funding and maintaining U.S. space leadership against Chinese competition.Read more →
The Verge...Spotify's Smart Reorder treats your playlists like a DJ setSpotify has launched 'Smart Reorder,' an automated feature that organizes playlists by beats per minute and musical key to create optimal song flow, functioning as an AI-powered DJ for Premium subscribers. This addition represents Spotify's expanding use of AI-assisted tools for music curation, building on recent features like song transitions and a playlist chatbot.Read more →
Gizmodo...Come Face to Face With the Best Nature Photography of the YearThe World Nature Photographer of the Year competition features award-winning images capturing diverse wildlife and ecosystems, including a rare white humpback whale calf whose recovery demonstrates successful conservation efforts. The photographs showcase the intricate relationships between animals and their environments, while also highlighting human-nature interactions and environmental challenges such as climate change impacts on polar bear habitats. The collection celebrates nature in all its forms—beautiful, dramatic, and sometimes revealing the tension between human activity and wildlife preservation.Read more →
Gizmodo...George R.R. Martin Wanted ‘Knight of the Seven Kingdoms’ to Keep Dunk’s Knight Status as Vague as PossibleThe showrunner of A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms confirms that the ambiguity surrounding whether protagonist Dunk was actually knighted is intentional, directly requested by George R.R. Martin. This narrative uncertainty serves as the foundation for exploring what truly defines a knight beyond the title itself.Read more →
TechCrunch...Have hard-won scaling lessons to share? Take the stage at TechCrunch Founder Summit 2026TechCrunch Founder Summit 2026 will convene 1,000+ founders and investors on June 9 in Boston for candid roundtable discussions led by experienced startup operators sharing scaling strategies. Speaking opportunities provide direct ecosystem access, premium event entry, and brand positioning amplification through TechCrunch's editorial and social channels, with applications closing April 17.Read more →
CNET...The Best Leak Detectors of 2026: Catch Your Frozen Pipes Before They BurstCNET reviews smart water leak detectors, recommending various models for home protection against water damage and pipes freezing. The article compares features including temperature detection, wireless range, battery life, and hub requirements to help homeowners select the best detector for their specific needs.Read more →
TechCrunch...About 12% of U.S. teens turn to AI for emotional support or adviceA Pew Research Center report reveals that American teenagers are increasingly using AI chatbots, with 57% using them for information searches and 54% for schoolwork assistance. While some teens rely on chatbots for emotional support and casual conversation, mental health professionals warn that these tools can be isolating and psychologically harmful. The findings highlight a gap between teen usage (64%) and parental awareness (51%), with most parents comfortable with informational uses but concerned about emotional support applications.Read more →
CNET...This New High-Speed Oven Cooks a Chicken in 30 Minutes. Here's How It WorksSharp's Celerity High-Speed Oven combines convection, microwave, and infrared heat to cook a whole chicken in 30 minutes, three times faster than standard convection ovens and quicker than air fryers. The $4,000 built-in appliance features nine cooking modes, including air fry, with intelligent cooking programs tested by culinary experts and smart technology like moisture sensors and a built-in camera to prevent overcooked food. This innovation addresses consumer demand for faster home cooking without sacrificing food quality.Read more →
The Verge...Fanttik’s foldable V10 Apex vacuum is on sale for the lowest price we’ve seenThe Verge highlights multiple tech product deals including the Fanttik Fold V10 Apex handheld vacuum reduced to $85.49 from $149.99, a Belkin BoostCharge Pro 3-in-1 wireless charging stand at $65.99, and PlayStation 5's Astro Bot game at $32.99. These offers provide significant savings on popular consumer electronics and gaming products.Read more →
TechCrunch...Americans now listen to podcasts more often than talk radio, study showsPodcasts have surpassed AM/FM spoken word radio as the dominant medium for audio content in the United States, capturing 40% of listening time compared to 39% for radio. The shift is fueled by rapid growth in video podcasts, with 85% of weekly listeners consuming podcasts with video components and major platforms like Netflix and YouTube significantly expanding their podcast offerings. This trend reflects evolving consumer preferences, with an estimated 115 million weekly podcast listeners in the U.S. consuming content across both audio and video formats.Read more →
The Verge...Amazon's AGI lab leader is leavingDavid Luan, head of Amazon's San Francisco AI lab, is departing after less than two years to focus entirely on advancing AI capabilities and AGI development. His departure highlights Amazon's struggles to compete in the AI race, with employees reportedly calling its AI products inferior to competitors. Luan led development of Amazon's Nova AI models and the Nova Act agent that was recently integrated into Alexa Plus.Read more →
Gizmodo...Things Won’t Change for Xbox Nearly as Much as You ThinkPhil Spencer retired as longtime Xbox head, with new CEO Asha Sharma pledging to restore Xbox's 'renegade spirit' through quality games and multi-device gaming across PC, mobile, and cloud. Despite leadership changes, Xbox's next-generation console hardware design is largely finalized with an expected 2027 launch, and major strategic shifts remain unlikely in the near term. The transition comes as Xbox faces significant financial challenges and declining hardware and software sales.Read more →
The Verge...We played Resident Evil Requiem, ask us anythingResident Evil Requiem launches February 27th as the first new mainline Resident Evil game since 2021, combining Resident Evil 4's action-focused gameplay with Resident Evil 7's first-person horror perspective. The hybrid approach merges both gameplay styles to deliver a comprehensive survival horror experience. The game is optimized for Nintendo Switch 2, marking a significant platform release.Read more →
Gizmodo...Alex Kurtzman Learned to Put the Stars of ‘Starfleet Academy’ in Danger From an Unlikely SourceStar Trek: Starfleet Academy has begun killing main characters to heighten stakes, drawing inspiration from the medical drama Grey's Anatomy. The show adopts a 'teaching hospital' model where cadets learn through high-risk field missions aboard a starship rather than classroom-only training. This approach allows the series to present classic Star Trek scenarios with genuine danger to its young cast.Read more →
CNET...Resident Evil Requiem Review: Classic Survival Horror With Modern ActionResident Evil Requiem balances horror and action through dual protagonists with contrasting playstyles—Grace's stealthy first-person horror sections versus Leon's third-person action sequences. The game successfully delivers both the survival horror and power fantasy the series is known for, with meaningful lore centered on Raccoon City, though it lacks significant replay value beyond two endings and difficulty modes.Read more →
The Verge...Resident Evil Requiem is the best of both terrifying worldsResident Evil Requiem combines first-person horror and third-person action gameplay through two playable characters—FBI analyst Grace Ashcroft and returning hero Leon S. Kennedy—each embodying different playstyles and perspectives. The game seamlessly shifts between perspectives and gameplay tones, representing a technical achievement in blending previous Resident Evil entries into a cohesive 11-hour experience launching on February 27th across PS5, Xbox, Switch 2, and PC.Read more →
The Verge...Resident Evil Requiem is still scary as hell on the Switch 2Resident Evil Requiem demonstrates the Switch 2's viability as a platform for major third-party titles, delivering solid functional performance despite visual compromises including blurry textures and physics glitches. The game's successful cross-platform launch signals promise for Nintendo's console in attracting blockbuster releases, though visual fidelity remains a tradeoff offset by the system's portability advantages.Read more →
TechCrunch...3 days left: Save up to $680 on your TechCrunch Disrupt 2026 ticketTechCrunch Disrupt 2026 (October 13-15, San Francisco) brings together 10,000+ founders, operators, and investors for deal-making and industry insights. The event features 200 startup pitches competing for $100,000 in equity-free funding, 300+ exhibitors, and direct access to venture capitalists. Super Early Bird pricing ends February 27, 2026.Read more →
CNET...Dreaming of a Touchscreen MacBook? You'd Better Be a Fan of Apple's Dynamic IslandApple is developing touchscreen MacBook Pro models expected in fall 2026, featuring Dynamic Island—a pill-shaped interface bringing iPhone-style alerts and controls to the laptop screen. The 14- and 16-inch models will maintain their physical keyboard and trackpad while adding touch interactions for scrolling, pinching, and gesture-based controls. This represents Apple's first major advancement in MacBook screen interaction, building on the notch design introduced in 2017.Read more →
TechCrunch...US tells diplomats to lobby against foreign data sovereignty lawsThe Trump administration has instructed U.S. diplomats to oppose global data sovereignty laws, arguing they hinder AI advancement and disrupt international data flows. This policy aims to protect American tech companies' ability to transfer and process foreign citizens' data, contrasting with the EU's regulatory approach through laws like GDPR and the AI Act.Read more →
Gizmodo...I Want My Remains Kept Inside Spotify and Liquid Death’s Speaker UrnSpotify and Liquid Death launched the Eternal Playlist Speaker, a $495 limited-edition Bluetooth speaker designed to resemble a cremation urn, with only 150 units available. This novelty product prioritizes its morbid aesthetic over sound quality, continuing an industry trend of increasingly absurd marketing gimmicks. The speaker features Bluetooth connectivity, USB-C charging, and a five-unit purchase limit per customer.Read more →
The Verge...Xiaomi's magnetic power bank is incredibly thinXiaomi has unveiled an UltraThin Magnetic Power Bank with a 5,000mAh battery measuring just 6mm thick, thinner than both the iPhone 17 and Apple's MagSafe battery. The device supports 15W wireless charging and 22.5W USB-C charging for secondary devices while adding only 98 grams of weight, making it practical for daily pocket carry. Priced at approximately $49-91 USD depending on region, it offers a compact alternative to larger power banks for mobile device charging.Read more →
The Verge...Does Anthropic think Claude is alive? Define ‘alive’Anthropic is publicly maintaining uncertainty about whether Claude could be conscious, declining to rule out the possibility unlike most other major AI companies. The company's precautionary approach raises concerns about potential harms, including whether its messaging responsibly addresses risks of users becoming emotionally dependent on AI they believe is sentient. This reflects ongoing scientific uncertainty about AI consciousness and questions about corporate responsibility in AI development.Read more →
The Verge...Apple brings age verification to UK users in iOS 26.4 betaApple is bringing age verification to the UK, as the latest iOS 26.4 beta prompts users to verify that they're over 18 following installation. As shown in screenshots posted to Reddit, Apple says users who don't confirm their age "will not be able to download and purchase apps or make in-app purchases." In one of […]Read more →
CNET...The Best Video Doorbells of 2026 That Act as Front Door GuardiansCNET provides a comprehensive buying guide for video doorbell cameras, comparing popular models from brands including Arlo, Google Nest, Ring, Blink, Lorex, and Tapo. The guide evaluates key features such as resolution, smart home compatibility, AI detection capabilities, video storage options, and subscription costs. Consumers can use this analysis to select a doorbell that meets their security needs and budget constraints.Read more →
CNET...Adobe's Still All In on AI. Next Up: The One-Click Tool That Edits Videos for YouAdobe launched Quick Cut, an AI tool within Firefly video editor that automatically generates rough cuts from raw video footage, streamlining the initial editing process for content creators. The tool processes footage and user prompts to create first drafts in minutes, with creators responsible for final refinements and branding. This release reflects Adobe's broader 2026 strategy of embedding AI into creative workflows to boost productivity without sacrificing creator control.Read more →
CNET...TextNow Adds eSIM Option for Immediate Unlimited Phone Data AccessTextNow has introduced an eSIM option that enables instant cellular data activation directly through its app, eliminating the wait and cost of physical SIM cards. The service defaults to a free plan supporting unlimited talk and text for select apps, with paid options ranging from $3 daily to $36 monthly. The company also announced network infrastructure improvements to enhance coverage and connectivity.Read more →
CNET...55 of the Best TV Shows on Netflix That Will Keep You EntertainedNetflix has published a curated guide of top shows to help viewers navigate its vast library and overcome decision fatigue. The article prominently features Season 3 of spy thriller The Night Agent, arriving this week, alongside acclaimed series like Stranger Things, The Crown, and Gilmore Girls. The recommendation aims to streamline the viewing experience and highlight both flagship classics and overlooked original content.Read more →
Gizmodo...Sony Wants to Rework Its ‘Spider-Man’ Spinoff PlansHollywood studios announce multiple major entertainment projects including Sony's reboot of Spider-Man spinoff films, adaptations like animated Hilo, and streaming series developments. Key updates include casting news for DC Universe Batman, Timothée Chalamet's Dune 3 performance update, and renewals such as Robin Hood season 2, reflecting continued industry investment in franchise reboots and original content across major studios.Read more →
The Verge...You can now make Alexa’s AI personality more friendly, blunt, or chilled outAmazon has launched three new voice personality styles—Brief, Chill, and Sweet—for Alexa Plus users in the United States. These customization options allow premium Alexa subscribers to personalize their voice assistant's communication style.Read more →
The Verge...Adobe’s new AI video editing tool stitches clips into a first draftAdobe is launching Quick Cut, an AI-powered feature for its Firefly video editor that automatically assembles video clips into a first rough cut based on text prompts and user input. The tool reduces tedious manual editing labor, allowing creators to quickly move from raw footage to an editable draft they can refine. This accelerates the initial assembly process while preserving full creative control for subsequent refinements.Read more →
TechCrunch...Harbinger acquires autonomous driving company Phantom AIElectric trucking startup Harbinger acquired autonomous driving software company Phantom AI to vertically integrate advanced driver assistance technology and create new revenue streams. The acquisition immediately secured a major customer with ZF Group licensing the technology for passenger car markets. The integration will enhance Harbinger's medium-duty electric trucks with critical safety features like automatic emergency braking and lane keeping assistance.Read more →
TechCrunch...Jira’s latest update allows AI agents and humans to work side by sideAtlassian launched 'agents in Jira,' enabling users to assign, manage, and track AI agents alongside human team members from a unified dashboard. This feature aims to improve enterprise productivity by providing visibility into both human and AI work, helping organizations determine optimal AI deployment and return on investment while reducing operational complexity.Read more →
TechCrunch...Y Combinator grad and AI insurance brokerage Harper raises $47MDakotah Rice has launched Harper, an AI-native insurance brokerage that raised $46.8 million in a combined Series A and seed round. The company uses AI to automate traditional insurance workflows, enabling it to process over 1,000 customers monthly compared to 20-30 for traditional brokerages. Harper targets small to mid-sized businesses and has already acquired more than 5,000 customers since launching in 2024.Read more →
TechCrunch...Amazon’s AI-powered Alexa+ gets new personality optionsAmazon launched three customizable personality styles for Alexa+ (Brief, Chill, and Sweet) that adjust the AI assistant's tone and communication style based on five personality dimensions. The feature responds to user demand for controlling AI behavior, though it reflects broader industry concerns about chatbot personality fostering unhealthy user dependency. Amazon notes additional personality styles are planned for future release.Read more →
TechCrunch...Adobe Firefly’s video editor can now automatically create a first draft from footageAdobe's new Quick Cut feature in Firefly uses AI to automatically edit video footage and B-roll into a first draft based on natural language descriptions. The tool automates repetitive editing tasks like clip selection and transition placement, allowing creators and marketers to focus on creative refinement. Users can customize settings like aspect ratio and pacing through prompts, though final videos still require manual adjustments.Read more →
Engadget...Amazon introduces three personality styles for Alexa+Amazon has launched three customizable personality styles for Alexa+ users—Brief, Chill, and Sweet—allowing users to tailor the AI assistant's communication style to their preferences. The personalities are based on five adjustable metrics including expressiveness, formality, and humor, with Amazon planning to introduce additional combinations in the future. Users can change personalities through the Alexa app or voice commands.Read more →
Engadget...Spotify can reorder your playlists by BPM and keySpotify is launching a Smart Reorder feature for Premium users that automatically rearranges playlist tracks based on their musical key and BPM to create seamless transitions between songs. The feature builds on Spotify's existing custom transitions capability introduced last year, enabling users to create uninterrupted listening experiences with a single tap. Users can access the feature by selecting Mix, Edit, and then Smart Reorder within any playlist.Read more →
The Verge...Amazon continues retreat from games by ending publishing deal for open-world racerAmazon has ended its publishing partnership with Maverick Games for an upcoming open-world racing title, reflecting the company's continued pullback from gaming investments. The studio, composed of former Forza developers, will continue development while seeking alternative publishers. This move highlights Amazon's selective approach to gaming, maintaining only key franchises like Tomb Raider while reducing broader portfolio commitments.Read more →
TechCrunch...Khosla’s Keith Rabois backs Comp, which wants to bolster HR teams with AIComp, a Brazilian HR tech startup co-founded by Christophe Gerlach and Pedro Bobrow, raised a $17.25 million Series A led by Khosla Ventures to expand its AI-powered HR software platform. The startup combines artificial intelligence with forward-deployed HR experts to handle recruiting, compensation policies, and performance reviews, positioning itself as an alternative to traditional consultancies like Mercer and Willis Towers Watson. With clients including Nubank and other Brazilian unicorns, Comp plans to expand globally as it develops toward fully autonomous AI agents.Read more →
CNET...Toto’s New Toilet Washes Its Own Rim So You Don’t Have ToToto introduced the Aurora Washlet Plus S7A, an advanced self-cleaning toilet featuring a dual-valve Integravity System that increases bowl coverage by five times compared to standard toilets. The toilet combines rim wash and siphon-jet technology with an integrated bidet using electrolyzed water for auto-cleaning, while maintaining water efficiency of 1-1.28 gallons per flush—below the EPA standard of 1.6 gallons.Read more →
Gizmodo...Behold the Haunting Gaze of C-3PO’s Disembodied Head From ‘The Empire Strikes Back’Propstore is auctioning a rare C-3PO head from The Empire Strikes Back, estimated at $350,000-$700,000, described as the only known example from the film to reach the collector market. Also included in the sale is Luke's lightsaber hilt from The Force Awakens, estimated at $50,000-$100,000, with a public preview on March 11 in Beverly Hills and bidding commencing March 25.Read more →
Engadget...Uber previews its Dubai air taxi serviceUber is launching Uber Air, an app-based air taxi service using Joby Aviation's electric aircraft, beginning service in Dubai this year with expansion planned for New York, Los Angeles, and international markets. The electric air taxis accommodate up to four passengers, travel at speeds up to 200 mph, and are priced competitively with Uber Black service. This represents a major commercial milestone for urban air mobility technology.Read more →
CNET...How to Handle Complex Investment Income on Your Taxes This YearIndividuals earning income from multiple sources must implement proactive tax planning and maintain meticulous recordkeeping to reduce tax liability and avoid IRS penalties. The article explains key tax concepts including capital gains treatment, pass-through entities, real estate investments, and net investment income tax, providing strategies to minimize tax burden across complex income streams.Read more →
Gizmodo...Denver Announces Data Center Moratorium as Opposition Picks Up Steam Around the CountryDenver Mayor Mike Johnston announced a temporary moratorium on new data center development to review policies around energy use, water consumption, and affordability while addressing environmental concerns and societal impacts of AI development. The moratorium, expected to last several months, reflects growing scrutiny of data centers' massive energy demands and water usage, with multiple states considering similar restrictions. The move comes amid calls for federal oversight and concerns about the unchecked growth of AI infrastructure.Read more →
CNET...Ricoh GR IV Review: Peak Pocket Photos to Potentially Outperform Your PhoneThe GR IV is a modest update to a popular compact camera designed for travel and street photography. This refined version maintains the camera's core appeal as a portable solution for photographers seeking a reliable, lightweight option for on-the-go shooting.Read more →
CNET...Apple TV: 15 Best Sci-Fi Shows You Should Stream Right NowApple TV's streaming service contains numerous acclaimed but underrated sci-fi shows including Severance, For All Mankind, and Dark Matter that many viewers have never discovered. The platform's minimal marketing strategy makes it difficult to find quality content without guidance like CNET's curated sci-fi show recommendations.Read more →
CNET...Why Is Printer Ink So Expensive?Printer manufacturers employ the 'razor-and-blades' business model, selling hardware at a loss while profiting from expensive proprietary ink cartridges that lock consumers into their ecosystems. Embedded chipsets and intellectual property protections prevent third-party alternatives and competition, keeping prices elevated. Consumers can reduce costs through high-yield cartridges, refillable tanks, subscription programs, or laser printers.Read more →
CNET...TCL X11L TV Hands-On: Huge Super Quantum Dot TV Is a Lot of Fun, but It's ExpensiveTCL has introduced the X11L TV featuring Super Quantum Dot MiniLED technology, achieving exceptional brightness up to 10,000 nits and high color saturation across the BT2020 color space. The TV delivers strong performance for gaming, streaming, and high-end video content with minimal input lag, though real-world color reproduction reached 91.77% of promised specifications. At a starting price of $7,000, the X11L positions itself as a premium option but faces pricing challenges against comparable competitors offering strong performance at lower costs.Read more →
CNET...Ricoh GR IV Review: Peak Pocket Photos to Potentially Outperform Your PhoneThe GR IV is a minor update to a popular compact camera designed for travel and street photography. The camera maintains its appeal as a portable, capable device for photography enthusiasts.Read more →
Gizmodo...The First Reactions to ‘Project Hail Mary’ Are Out of This WorldProject Hail Mary, the film adaptation of Andy Weir's novel, premiered to universally positive press reactions ahead of its March 20 release. Starring Ryan Gosling, the film follows an astronaut who wakes on a spaceship with no memory, tasked with stopping a deadly organism consuming the Sun, alongside an alien ally. Directors Phil Lord and Chris Miller appear to have delivered a movie that exceeds the long-anticipated expectations of book fans.Read more →
Engadget...Honor says its 4.8mm thick MagicPad 4 is the world's slimmest Android tabletHonor has unveiled the MagicPad 4, claiming the title of world's thinnest Android tablet at 4.8mm thick—a millimeter thinner than its predecessor and slimmer than comparable iPad Pro and Samsung Galaxy Tab models. The device features a 12.3-inch 165Hz OLED display, weighs 450g (145 grams lighter than the MagicPad 3), and includes a 66W fast charger, offering significant upgrades in display quality and overall performance.Read more →
CNET...Best Senior Phone Plans of 2026CNET compares senior phone plans from major carriers, identifying T-Mobile's Essentials Choice 55 as the most affordable option at $45/month with 5G and 50GB of data. The review evaluates pricing, features, and trade-offs across plans from T-Mobile, AT&T, Mint Mobile, and Verizon, helping seniors find affordable connectivity options that balance cost and functionality.Read more →
CNET...12 Things You Can Make in a Rice Cooker That Aren't RiceRice cookers extend far beyond cooking rice, capable of preparing other grains, eggs, dumplings, soups, desserts, and chocolate fondue through their steady heat and versatile cooking functions. This versatility makes rice cookers valuable multitasking kitchen appliances that can streamline various culinary techniques throughout the day.Read more →
CNET...Dell XPS 14 Review: The Refreshing Return of a New ClassicDell revives its XPS brand with the new XPS 14, correcting the failures of the previous Dell 14 Premium by delivering a lighter design at 3.2 pounds, Intel Panther Lake processors, and improved ergonomics at a competitive $1,600+ price point. The laptop offers strong performance and battery life comparable to the MacBook Pro 14, with an available OLED display option. This represents Dell's successful return to its proven XPS lineup after its rebranding experiment failed to resonate with consumers.Read more →
CNET...We Learned How to Share Info About ICE and Police Raids on Apps Like Ring NeighborsNeighborhood social media platforms like Ring Neighbors and Nextdoor have specific content policies for ICE and police activity posts, allowing location-specific reports while removing vague references or political commentary. Ring does not share security footage with ICE without legal warrants, and users retain rights to film law enforcement activities on their property.Read more →
CNET...Lenovo Legion Tower 5 Gen 10 Desktop Review: Mighty Good Value, if a Little QuirkyThe Lenovo Legion Tower 5 Gen 10 is a midrange gaming PC priced around $1,449 that delivers exceptional 1080p gaming performance, outperforming significantly more expensive systems through intelligent component selection centered on the AMD Ryzen 7 7800X3D processor. Despite some design compromises in expandability and port connectivity, the system's strong value, reliable cooling, and Editor's Choice award make it an excellent budget-conscious gaming choice.Read more →
The Verge...Honor’s new MagicPad 4 is the world’s thinnest Android tabletHonor announced the MagicPad 4, an ultra-thin 4.8mm tablet featuring a 12.3-inch 165Hz OLED display and Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 processor, positioning it among the thinnest tablets available. The device is 145 grams lighter than its predecessor while maintaining premium audio with eight spatial speakers, with pricing and availability coming at MWC.Read more →
Gizmodo...Nuclear Energy Isn’t Scary Anymore. It’s Just Crypto-CodedNuclear power is gaining U.S. political momentum through government-backed investment, but concerns mount as Entra1 Energy—a startup with minimal track record—pursues $25 billion in Japanese funds to commercialize small modular reactors. The company's lack of executed projects and questionable connections raise doubts about whether substantial capital will translate into actual nuclear generation capacity.Read more →
Engadget...xAI's trade secret lawsuit against OpenAI has been dismissedOpenAI successfully had US District Judge Rita F. Lin dismiss xAI's trade secret theft lawsuit, with the judge finding no direct allegations of OpenAI's own misconduct. The complaints centered on eight former xAI employees who joined OpenAI, but lacked evidence that OpenAI itself directed or participated in the alleged thefts. xAI has been granted leave to amend its complaint until March 17, 2026.Read more →
Engadget...The best cheap kitchen gadgets in 2026A guide to essential kitchen tools that improve cooking efficiency and safety, featuring recommendations like mandolines for precise vegetable cutting, food scales for accurate measurements, Microplanes for grating, and vacuum sealers for food preservation, with specific affordable brand suggestions for each tool.Read more →
Gizmodo...Rivian Tries to Make Charging Easier for Drivers Before Cheaper R2 ArrivesRivian is preparing for the R2 SUV launch by partnering with EnergyHub to optimize home charging at lower electricity rates and grid load management, while simultaneously expanding mobile service vans by 50% and adding over 50 new service garages. These infrastructure investments are critical as the company aims for 25% sales growth in 2026 following weak 2025 performance, with the service expansion supporting its direct sales model.Read more →
Engadget...Apple introduces age verification for apps in Utah, Louisiana and AustraliaApple has introduced new age verification tools and the Declared Age Range API to help developers comply with emerging age verification laws across multiple countries and US states, including Brazil, Australia, Singapore, Utah, and Louisiana. Beginning February 24, 2026, users under 18 can no longer download 18+ rated apps without age verification in select regions. The tools enable developers to confirm user age and manage parental permissions, addressing regulatory requirements for child safety in app distribution.Read more →
CNET...Samsung's Next Galaxy Watch Reveal Might Be Ultra SpecialSamsung is expected to launch the Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 in summer 2026 with significant health monitoring upgrades, including potential noninvasive glucose monitoring and deeper skin-based detection. Enhanced processing power could deliver better battery life, on-device AI features, and possibly satellite connectivity, bringing Samsung's flagship smartwatch closer to competitors' capabilities.Read more →
Gizmodo...It’s Not Just You. Trump’s State of the Union Triggered Siri on iPhone Users’ PhonesDuring Trump's State of the Union address, multiple iPhone users reported that Siri was inadvertently activated by words in the speech due to Apple's simplified voice activation system that now only requires saying 'Siri' instead of 'Hey Siri.' The accidental trigger highlighted a potential sensitivity issue in the updated voice command system.Read more →
TechCrunch...India’s AI boom pushes firms to trade near-term revenue for usersTech giants including OpenAI, Google, and Perplexity are ending free AI promotions in India to convert users to paid subscriptions. Although India drives approximately 20% of global GenAI app downloads, it accounts for only 1% of in-app revenue, highlighting a critical monetization challenge. Lower engagement rates and price sensitivity suggest the market will require tailored pricing strategies and bundled offerings to achieve sustainable growth.Read more →
CNET...Today's NYT Connections: Sports Edition Hints and Answers for Feb. 25, #520This article provides hints and complete answers for the daily Connections: Sports Edition puzzle, a sports-themed word game variant from The Athletic and The New York Times. The puzzle contains four difficulty tiers with themes including baseball terms, orange and black sports teams, Montreal references, and derby-related phrases.Read more →
The Verge...Pete Hegseth’s Pentagon AI bro squad includes a former Uber executive and a private equity billionaireThe Pentagon is negotiating with Anthropic over AI policy compliance while facing a critical supply-chain vulnerability—it needs at least two frontier AI models cleared for classified work, but only Anthropic's Claude currently meets security requirements. This situation provides significant leverage to Anthropic despite Pentagon pressure, as the department has limited viable alternatives and cannot risk violating its own national security guidelines.Read more →
Gizmodo...The Touchscreen MacBook Pro Will Have a Very iPhone-Like Screen, Report SaysApple is reportedly developing a touchscreen MacBook Pro with an OLED display and Dynamic Island, expected to launch in late 2026. Rather than positioning it as an iPad replacement, Apple plans to offer touch input as an optional feature that complements traditional point-and-click navigation, giving users flexibility in their interaction method.Read more →
CNET...Uber Moves Into Parking in Deal to Acquire SpotHeroUber has acquired SpotHero, a digital parking marketplace covering 400+ cities in North America, to expand beyond ride-hailing and delivery services. The integration will add parking reservations directly to the Uber app, enabling customers to plan comprehensive trips with bundled services. This acquisition reflects Uber's strategy to become a unified transportation platform while providing SpotHero access to Uber's extensive user base.Read more →
TechCrunch...Nvidia challenger AI chip startup MatX raised $500MMatX, a chip startup founded by former Google hardware engineers, has secured $500 million in Series B funding to develop processors designed to outperform Nvidia GPUs in LLM training and inference. The company plans to manufacture its chips with TSMC and begin shipping in 2027. The substantial funding reflects strong investor confidence in specialized AI chip solutions as competition intensifies in the AI accelerator market.Read more →
The Verge...Apple's new age verification tools block underage app downloads where required by lawApple has introduced new age verification tools and updated its Declared Age Range API to help developers comply with age assurance requirements across multiple regions including Australia, Brazil, Singapore, and U.S. states such as Utah and Louisiana. The new features automatically prevent unverified users from downloading 18+ apps and provide developers with regulatory signals and parental consent requirements. These changes address evolving global regulations requiring age confirmation for age-restricted digital content.Read more →
TechCrunch...Self-driving tech startup Wayve raises $1.2B from Nvidia, Uber, and three automakersWayve, a U.K. autonomous driving startup, raised $1.2 billion in Series C funding that values the company at $8.6 billion, backed by major tech firms, automakers, and institutional investors. The company uses end-to-end deep learning for autonomous driving without HD maps and takes a contrarian B2B approach by licensing its embodied AI technology to automakers and mobility companies like Nissan and Uber rather than operating vehicles itself. This funding round reflects significant investor confidence and commercial momentum in the autonomous vehicle industry.Read more →
The Verge...Apple’s touchscreen MacBooks might also have a Dynamic IslandApple is developing OLED touchscreen MacBook Pros arriving fall 2026 with a smaller Dynamic Island interface from iPhones, marking a significant reversal of the company's historical stance against Mac touchscreens. The new 14-inch and 16-inch models will feature an updated macOS interface optimized for both touch gestures and traditional input methods. This strategic pivot underscores Apple's evolving approach to integrating iPad-like functionality into its premium laptop lineup.Read more →
TechCrunch...Spanish ‘soonicorn’ Multiverse Computing releases free compressed AI modelMultiverse Computing has developed CompactifAI, a compression technology that reduces large language model size by half while maintaining comparable performance. Their HyperNova 60B model achieves 32GB size versus the original 120B model, enabling lower-cost deployment for enterprises. The Spanish startup is raising €500 million at a €1.5+ billion valuation to expand as a sovereign alternative to US-based AI companies.Read more →
Engadget...LG's massive 52-inch ultra-wide gaming monitor costs $2,000LG announced the UltraGear evo G9, a 52-inch ultrawide gaming monitor priced at $2,000 for pre-order, claiming it as the world's largest 5K2K gaming monitor. The monitor features a 1000R curve, 240Hz refresh rate, 1 millisecond gray-to-gray response time, VESA DisplayHDR 600, and 95% DCI-P3 color gamut coverage, delivering high-end gaming immersion at a competitive price point.Read more →
TechCrunch...Apple rolls out age verification tools worldwide to comply with growing web of child safety lawsApple is launching age verification tools to comply with regulatory requirements for age-restricted content across multiple countries and US states. The tools enable developers to verify user age without accessing personal data, while Apple blocks 18+ app downloads in Brazil, Australia, and Singapore until users confirm they are adults. Additional compliance features are being rolled out for Utah, Louisiana, and Brazil's loot box regulations.Read more →
Engadget...Apple's touchscreen MacBook will reportedly have a dynamic interfaceApple plans to add touchscreens and a Dynamic Island to its premium MacBook Pros launching this fall, featuring an adaptive interface that optimizes for both touch and mouse input. The devices will debut OLED displays on Mac laptops for the first time, enabling new design possibilities while maintaining physical keyboards.Read more →
Gizmodo...Okay, This AI-Powered ‘Robot Phone’ Has My Undivided AttentionHonor is unveiling a 'Robot Phone' at MWC 2026 with a motorized, AI-powered camera gimbal that extends from the back and animatedly interacts with users. The device combines smartphone technology with robotics and computer vision to perform stabilized video capture and responsive interactions. While representing an intriguing experiment in AI-integrated hardware, the phone's commercial viability remains uncertain due to concerns about durability and battery life.Read more →
Gizmodo...Trump Claims the State of the Union Is Going to Be Long. Is It Just a Polymarket Pump?Prediction markets are experiencing high betting volume on the duration of President Trump's State of the Union speech, with forecasts ranging from 99 minutes to over 2 hours. The article examines historical speech lengths and betting odds while warning of potential market manipulation due to conflicts of interest involving Trump Jr.'s advisory roles at prediction platforms.Read more →
TechCrunch...Uber engineers built an AI version of their bossUber's CEO Dara Khosrowshahi disclosed that 90% of the company's software engineers are using AI tools to enhance productivity, with about 30% functioning as 'power users' fundamentally rethinking company architecture. Engineering teams have even created an AI chatbot version of Khosrowshahi to practice presentations with executives, illustrating how deeply AI has integrated into operational processes. The CEO emphasized that this AI adoption is driving unprecedented improvements in engineering productivity.Read more →
The Verge...OpenAI defeats xAI’s trade secrets lawsuitA federal judge dismissed xAI's lawsuit against OpenAI alleging employee poaching and theft of trade secrets, finding insufficient evidence of OpenAI's direct misconduct despite eight former xAI employees leaving for OpenAI. The ruling determined that while employees may have retained confidential information, there was no proof OpenAI directed or orchestrated such actions. This victory for OpenAI represents another development in escalating legal conflicts between the company and xAI CEO Elon Musk.Read more →
Gizmodo...Jodie Foster Reflects on the Personal Journey of Making ‘Contact’Jodie Foster discussed the 1997 film 'Contact' at the Academy Museum, reflecting on how director Robert Zemeckis merged scientific and spiritual themes while making deliberate creative choices over scientific accuracy, such as depicting radio waves as audible signals. The film remains relevant for its humanist exploration of wonder and connection, despite its scientific inaccuracies acknowledged by both Foster and attending astrophysicist Dr. Nivedita Mahesh.Read more →
CNET...Marvel's Wolverine Finally Has a Release Date, and It's SoonSony announced Marvel's Wolverine will release on September 15, concluding a five-year development cycle since the game's 2021 announcement. The Insomniac Games title, currently exclusive to PS5, follows Logan investigating mysteries about his past while battling iconic adversaries like Omega Red and Mystique across global locations including Canada, Madripoor, and Tokyo. The game is expected to retail for $70 and may eventually expand to other platforms like previous PlayStation exclusives.Read more →
CNET...Eufy's Newest Robot Vacuum Has the Longest Roller Mop We've Seen for the PriceEufy's new Omni C28 brings brush roll mopping technology to the $800 price range, previously exclusive to premium robot vacuums. The model features a 10.7-inch mop roller with self-cleaning capabilities, advanced laser navigation, and a comprehensive base station providing 75 days of hands-free operation. This makes advanced mopping automation significantly more accessible to mid-range consumers.Read more →
TechCrunch...Stripe is reportedly eyeing deal to buy some or all of PayPalStripe is exploring a potential acquisition of PayPal Holdings, though negotiations remain in early stages, according to Bloomberg sources. The move comes as Stripe announced a $159 billion valuation in its latest tender offer, representing a 74% increase year-over-year and solidifying its position as one of the world's most valuable private fintech companies. A successful merger would consolidate two major payment platforms and significantly reshape the digital payments landscape.Read more →
Gizmodo...Warner Bros. Has Decided That Maybe Paramount Could Be the Better Deal After AllParamount Skydance has submitted a revised acquisition offer for Warner Bros. Entertainment valued at $31 per share in cash, competing with Netflix's existing merger agreement. Warner Bros.' board is determining whether this proposal qualifies as superior, potentially triggering Netflix's contractual right to match or revise its offer. This development could reshape the ownership and content distribution strategy of a major entertainment conglomerate.Read more →
CNET...Waymo's Autonomous Ride Service Expands to 4 New CitiesWaymo is expanding its driverless ride-hailing services to four new cities in Texas and Florida, doubling the number of American metropolitan areas where it operates. The company plans additional expansion to Denver, Nashville, Las Vegas, Washington DC, London, and Tokyo in 2026, while testing next-generation autonomous vehicle technology on existing routes.Read more →
CNET...Oura Ring Wants to Put an OB-GYN on Your Finger With New AI for Women’s HealthOura has launched a custom AI model within its Oura Advisor chatbot specifically designed for women's health topics including menstrual cycles, menopause, and fertility. The model combines biometric data from Oura Ring with clinical research and was developed by board-certified women's health experts to provide evidence-based, personalized guidance. Currently available for beta testing in Oura Labs, the system aims to help users prepare for medical appointments while maintaining strict privacy protections.Read more →
Gizmodo...Meta Gets Back into Crypto, Plans Stablecoin Integration Later This YearMeta is launching stablecoin payment functionality across Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp by late 2026, using third-party providers like Stripe rather than issuing its own token. This represents a cautious regulatory strategy, learning from the 2019-2022 failure of its Libra/Diem project, which faced government opposition over control of global payments. The move capitalizes on the evolving regulatory landscape, including the 2025 GENIUS Act that established the first federal framework for payment stablecoins.Read more →
CNET...Probiotic Sodas Are Trending, but Are They Healthy? We Asked Medical ExpertsMajor soda brands are launching prebiotic sodas claiming health benefits, but industry experts warn these products fall short of their marketing promises. While lower in sugar than traditional sodas, most brands contain insufficient prebiotic fiber—often 2 grams versus the 5+ grams needed for measurable gut health improvements. Experts recommend viewing these beverages as occasional alternatives to regular soda rather than health supplements, and suggest whole foods remain the best source of prebiotics.Read more →
CNET...Netflix Surprises 'One Piece' Fans With Special Season 2 Episodes Theater DropNetflix is releasing One Piece Season 2 with a special theatrical premiere of the first two episodes on March 10 across select theaters in North America and Japan before the season launches on the streaming platform. The event will be shown in more than 200 locations, with ticket sales beginning February 26. The new season introduces the 'Into the Grand Line' story arc with expanded cast members in the live-action adaptation.Read more →
TechCrunch...Former L3Harris Trenchant boss jailed for selling hacking tools to Russian brokerPeter Williams, a former general manager at L3Harris defense contractor, was sentenced to seven years in prison for selling classified hacking and surveillance tools to Russian broker Operation Zero. The stolen tools could have compromised millions of computers and devices globally, and Williams profited $1.3 million in cryptocurrency from the illegal sales between 2022 and 2025. The U.S. Treasury Department sanctioned Operation Zero, which specializes in acquiring and reselling zero-day exploits for Android, iPhone, and messaging applications.Read more →
Gizmodo...Pete Hegseth Gives Anthropic Choice to Abandon AI Safeguards or Be Labeled ‘National Security Threat’Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth issued an ultimatum to Anthropic CEO demanding removal of safety guardrails from Claude AI that prevent autonomous weapons and surveillance use, threatening contract termination and government takeover if refused by Friday. The conflict reflects escalating tension between the Pentagon's push for unrestricted military AI access and Anthropic's commitment to responsible AI development with protective safeguards.Read more →
Engadget...1Password plans are getting more expensive soon1Password is raising prices significantly, with individual plans increasing from $36 to $48 annually and family plans from $60 to $72, effective after March 27. This represents the largest price increase in several years as the company expands its cybersecurity offerings with features like enhanced phishing protections. Despite the hike, 1Password remains a leading password management solution in the market.Read more →
TechCrunch...Google’s new 1.9GW clean energy deal includes massive 100-hour batteryGoogle is building a Minnesota data center powered by 1.9 gigawatts of renewable energy, including a 300-megawatt iron-air battery from Form Energy that will be the world's largest long-duration storage system. This battery technology costs approximately one-third the price of lithium-ion batteries, making clean energy infrastructure more economically viable. The project establishes a new utility fee structure allowing energy companies to invest in renewable technologies without regulatory penalties.Read more →
CNET...Apple to Build the Mac Mini in the United States for the First TimeApple is establishing Mac Mini production in Houston, Texas for the first time, shifting manufacturing from Asia, while simultaneously expanding AI server production at the same facility. The move is part of Apple's broader $600 billion US investment commitment and will create thousands of jobs. This initiative also includes opening an Advanced Manufacturing Center for hands-on training in Apple product manufacturing.Read more →
TechCrunch...CarGurus data breach affects 12.5 million accountsCarGurus, an online automotive marketplace, suffered a data breach affecting 12.5 million customers, exposing names, email addresses, phone numbers, and physical addresses. The attack was attributed to ShinyHunters, a hacking group known for social engineering tactics, and also compromised financial pre-qualification data and dealer account information. This incident follows the group's pattern of breaching major organizations including Salesforce and universities through manipulation of support staff.Read more →
TechCrunch...Anthropic won’t budge as Pentagon escalates AI disputeThe Department of Defense is pressuring Anthropic to provide unrestricted access to its AI model by Friday, threatening to designate the company as a 'supply chain risk' or invoke the Defense Production Act if it refuses. The conflict arises from Anthropic's commitment to restrict use of its technology for mass surveillance and autonomous weapons, positions the Pentagon argues should be governed by law rather than corporate policy. The situation exposes the Pentagon's over-reliance on a single AI vendor and raises broader questions about government authority over AI safety practices.Read more →
The Verge...Let me see some ID: age verification is spreading across the internetAge verification systems are rapidly expanding across internet platforms in response to regulatory mandates aimed at protecting minors. This widespread adoption creates significant privacy concerns and implementation challenges, while raising questions about the effectiveness and consistency of verification methods across different jurisdictions and platforms.Read more →
Gizmodo...‘A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms’ Might Not Pick Up on Its Big Cliffhanger Just YetA Knight of the Seven Kingdoms' season one finale sets up potential conflict between Prince Maekar and his runaway son Egg, with actor Sam Spruell explaining Maekar's emotional struggle as a failed father who lacks the wisdom Dunk possesses. While Maekar is absent from the upcoming second season, the show's timeline indicates he will eventually become king after the deaths of other Targaryens, potentially allowing future exploration of his relationship with Egg. The show's creators have hinted at expanding beyond Martin's published novellas, suggesting Maekar's character arc could continue in future seasons.Read more →
Engadget...Discord delays age verification to address user concernsDiscord announced a postponement of its global age verification policy rollout to the second half of 2026 in response to user privacy concerns. The platform will offer multiple verification options including credit card verification to confirm age without requiring identity disclosure or face scans. Discord also committed to greater transparency regarding verification vendors and will implement new spoiler channel features to reduce verification requirements across servers.Read more →
TechCrunch...Discord delays global rollout of age verification after backlashDiscord has delayed its global age verification rollout from March to the second half of 2026, following significant user backlash. The company clarified that only 10% of users will need age verification, as internal systems can already determine the age of most adult users through account signals. Discord plans to introduce additional verification methods including credit card verification and will only partner with vendors performing verification on-device, addressing privacy concerns from the initial announcement.Read more →
Gizmodo...Novo Nordisk’s Latest Weight Loss Drug Might Be Its Best Yet—and a Much-Needed WinNovo Nordisk reported Phase II trial results for UBT251, a triple-agonist weight loss drug achieving up to 20% body weight loss in 24 weeks, positioning it as one of the most promising obesity therapies in development. The results provide a crucial win for the company following disappointing outcomes with CagriSema and intensify competition in the growing weight loss medication market. UBT251 is advancing to Phase III trials and has potential to match or exceed competitor efficacy, offering patients additional treatment options.Read more →
Engadget...The Pentagon has reportedly given Anthropic until Friday to let it use Claude as it sees fitThe Defense Department is pressuring Anthropic to remove safety guardrails from Claude for military applications, with a Friday deadline and threats to invoke the Defense Production Act if demands aren't met. Anthropic has stated it will not permit Claude to be used for mass surveillance of Americans or autonomous weapons development. Claude's critical role in sensitive government operations makes Anthropic vulnerable to this pressure despite the company's resistance to certain military demands.Read more →
TechCrunch...Instagram head pressed on lengthy delay to launch teen safety features, like a nudity filter, court filing revealsMeta's Instagram head was deposed in a lawsuit revealing the company knew about safety risks from explicit images in direct messages since 2018 but delayed implementing a nudity filter until April 2024. The deposition disclosed that 19.2% of teens aged 13-15 reported seeing unwanted sexual images on Instagram, demonstrating Meta's awareness of harms to minors. The case is part of broader litigation seeking to hold major tech companies accountable for prioritizing user engagement over teen safety.Read more →
Gizmodo...Military Leaders Warn European War on American Big Tech Comes With Real Security RisksEuropean leaders are pushing for greater technological independence from the United States amid geopolitical tensions, driven by concerns over potential U.S. control of critical infrastructure. However, military officials warn the continent's deep reliance on American systems—from satellite networks to cybersecurity infrastructure—makes rapid decoupling impractical without creating security vulnerabilities. The push has prompted concrete policy changes, such as France replacing Microsoft Teams with domestic alternatives, while the EU works on tech sovereignty legislation.Read more →
CNET...'Survivor 50': How to Watch the Premiere Without CableSurvivor Season 50 premieres on CBS featuring 24 returning players competing under the 'In the Hands of the Fans' theme, where fans voted on game elements like idol rules and fire-making challenges. The three-hour premiere streams on Paramount Plus with timing dependent on subscription tier, offering both live and on-demand viewing options.Read more →
CNET...Meta and AMD's Multibillion-Dollar Deal Is All About the AI ChipsMeta announces a multi-year partnership with AMD to purchase billions of dollars in Instinct GPUs and takes a 10% stake in the chipmaker, acquiring up to 6 gigawatts of AI computing capacity. The deal signals major tech companies are securing hardware resources amid intensifying AI competition, with implications for consumer pricing as supply constraints persist.Read more →
Gizmodo...You Can Now Own an Official Version of the Superior ‘Star Trek’ MugMaster Replicas has announced official preorders for Star Trek Deep Space Nine raktajino mugs, bringing back iconic drinkware that have been unavailable since their trademark expired in the late 1990s. The mugs are available in multiple colorways including the signature pale blue featured in the show, priced at $25 each. This release fulfills decades-long fan demand for officially licensed Star Trek merchandise featuring the recognizable sci-fi design.Read more →
Engadget...Google sent an AI-generated push alert that included a racial slurGoogle removed an AI-generated news alert containing offensive language about a BAFTA Film Awards incident, highlighting content moderation challenges in automated systems. The incident prompted Google to apologize and commit to improving content filtering processes to prevent similar failures.Read more →
Gizmodo...File-Sharing Network Soulseek Has Been Flooded With AI Homer Simpson Cover SongsThousands of AI-generated Homer Simpson vocal covers have flooded the peer-to-peer network Soulseek, disrupting a platform typically used by collectors seeking underground and rare music. A dedicated streaming service called D'oh FM has emerged offering 24/7 AI-generated Homer Simpson covers with user-submitted requests. The trend demonstrates both the creative potential and disruptive impact of generative AI in music production.Read more →
Engadget...Here's the first teaser for A24's adaptation of The BackroomsA24 has released the first teaser for The Backrooms, a film adaptation of the viral YouTube short directed by original creator Kane Parsons. The film, starring Chiwetel Ejiofor and Renate Reinsve, features the series' signature ominous liminal spaces and will be released on May 29, 2026.Read more →
TechCrunch...More startups are hitting $10M ARR in 3 months than ever beforeAI has accelerated startup growth to unprecedented levels, with an increasing number of new ventures reaching multimillion-dollar annual recurring revenue within months rather than years. According to Stripe's 2025 report, startups grew 50% faster than in 2024, with twice as many hitting $10 million ARR in three months, while 20% of new businesses charged customers within their first month. Though investors prioritize sustainable growth and customer retention over raw speed, this trend demonstrates how AI tools and infrastructure are enabling founders to achieve financial milestones significantly faster.Read more →
Engadget...Waymo will start offering robotaxi rides in four more citiesWaymo announced expansion of its autonomous ride-hailing service to Dallas, Houston, San Antonio, and Orlando, with initial availability restricted to Waymo app users invited on a rolling basis. The company plans to scale operations significantly and open its robotaxi service to the general public later in 2026. This marks a major milestone in the commercial deployment of autonomous vehicles across multiple US markets.Read more →
The Verge...Discord is delaying its global age verification rolloutDiscord won't roll out age verification globally on its platform next month as previously announced, and says in a blog post that it's delaying the launch until the second half of 2026. "The way this landed, many of you walked away thinking we're requiring face scans and ID uploads from everyone just to use Discord. […]Read more →
TechCrunch...Instagram’s TV app is launching on Google TV devicesInstagram is expanding its dedicated TV app to Google TV devices in the U.S., enabling users to watch Reels and browse their feeds on television. The expansion aims to strengthen Instagram's competition with YouTube in the TV streaming space by offering a lean-back viewing experience with auto-playing personalized content. The app supports multiple account management and features Reels organized by topic categories.Read more →
Gizmodo...NASA’s Curiosity Finds Crunchy Nodules Where Ancient Martian Water Once StoodNASA's Curiosity rover discovered boxwork formations on Mars—hardened mineral ridges created by ancient groundwater—suggesting water persisted on the Red Planet longer than previously thought. These formations found along Mount Sharp indicate the groundwater table was high enough to potentially sustain microbial life for extended periods. The discovery provides new evidence about Mars's climate history and conditions favorable for early habitability.Read more →
TechCrunch...Treasury sanctions Russian zero-day broker accused of buying exploits stolen from U.S. defense contractorThe U.S. government sanctioned two zero-day exploit brokers—Operation Zero and Advance Security Solutions—along with their operators for illegally acquiring and reselling security vulnerabilities. The action followed the discovery that a U.S. defense contractor employee sold stolen government cyber tools to Operation Zero, which distributed them to foreign intelligence agencies and ransomware groups, posing significant threats to national security.Read more →
CNET...10 of the Best Movies on Hulu You Should Stream NowHulu has evolved from a TV catch-up service into a prestige movie destination, positioning itself as Disney's premium film hub. With exclusive access to Searchlight Pictures and priority rights to 20th Century Studios content, Hulu is establishing a distinct identity as the home for quality horror, sci-fi, and thriller films.Read more →
Gizmodo...Maul Kinda Regrets Wanting to Be Rid of the Jedi in ‘Shadow Lord’Darth Maul returns in the new animated series 'Maul: Shadow Lord' arriving on Disney+ April 6, set between Revenge of the Sith and A New Hope. The show explores Maul's evolved perspective on the Jedi, revealing he has developed respect for their principles and values in contrast to his contempt for the Empire's unethical pursuit of power.Read more →
TechCrunch...Google adds a way to create automated workflows to OpalGoogle has introduced AI agents to its Opal no-code app builder, enabling users to create automated workflows and mini apps using natural language prompts powered by Gemini 3 Flash. The agents intelligently select tools and execute tasks while requesting additional information from users when needed. This advancement makes complex app development accessible to non-technical users without coding knowledge.Read more →
Gizmodo...‘Likely the Largest Breach in U.S. History’: What You Need to Know About the Conduent FiascoConduent, a major health insurance document processing company, suffered one of the largest data breaches in U.S. history, exposing personal information for at least 26 million individuals including names, social security numbers, and health data. The breach, occurring between October 2024 and January 2025, was perpetrated by the Safepay ransomware group, affecting residents across multiple states with Texas and Oregon particularly impacted. The incident has triggered investigations by state attorneys general and a pending class action lawsuit, with Conduent offering affected individuals free credit monitoring services.Read more →
TechCrunch...Spotify and Liquid Death release a limited-edition speaker shaped like… an urn?Spotify and Liquid Death have launched the Eternal Playlist Urn, a limited-edition Bluetooth speaker designed to resemble a cremation urn, priced at $495 with only 150 units available for purchase. The product enables users to create custom playlists that sync to the speaker, representing Spotify's second branded hardware collaboration and exemplifying the brand's expansion into novelty consumer electronics.Read more →
Engadget...Sony reveals the Death Stranding 2 required PC specsSony revealed PC system requirements for Death Stranding 2: On the Beach, with reasonable minimum specs requiring a GTX 1660 or RX 5500 XT for 1080p 30fps performance. The PC port debuts Pico upscaling technology and introduces ultrawide display support up to 32:9 aspect ratio, making the game accessible to players with older hardware while adding advanced visual options.Read more →
The Verge...1Password is going up in price1Password is increasing subscription prices effective March 27, 2026, raising its individual yearly plan from $35.88 to $47.88 and family plan from $59.88 to $71.88. The password manager company justifies the price hike by citing substantial growth in platform value and capability, stating the increase will support continued investment in security and innovation. The price changes will take effect at users' next renewal date after March 27.Read more →
Engadget...Someone made an app to warn you if smart glasses are nearbyA new app called Nearby Glasses detects smart glasses via their Bluetooth signature and alerts users of potential nearby devices, addressing growing privacy concerns about these devices being secretly used to film people. The app was developed in response to incidents involving Meta's Ray-Bans and similar devices as companies like Meta and OpenAI add features such as facial recognition to smart eyewear. It represents user-initiated protection against surveillance technology, though false positives may occur from other Bluetooth devices like VR headsets.Read more →
Gizmodo...YouTube’s Most Maximal Synth Sorcerer to Represent the UK at EurovisionSam Bartle, a UK Eurovision representative and YouTube creator, is known for designing elaborate musical machines and synthesizers, ranging from Furby orchestras to complex 1000-oscillator installations. His work combines legitimate musical talent with genuine engineering curiosity, extending to museum curation and video game development. Bartle's appeal stems from his authentic personality and sincere commitment to exploring sound possibilities rather than creating content for shock value.Read more →
The Verge...Seedance 2.0 might be gen AI video’s next big hope, but it’s still slopByteDance's Seedance 2.0 video generation model produces remarkably realistic footage but relies on copyrighted training data, triggering cease and desist letters from major studios including Disney, Paramount, and Netflix. The model's superior quality compared to competitors underscores how AI video generators achieve impressive results through unauthorized use of copyrighted material. The legal pressure highlights the fundamental challenge facing the AI video industry: achieving quality requires either circumventing copyright protections or adopting properly licensed training data.Read more →
Engadget...iPhone Fold rumors: Everything we know right now, including the leaked design, upgrades, price and moreApple's first foldable iPhone is expected to launch in the second half of 2026, featuring a book-style design with a 7.7-8 inch unfolded display and Samsung's creaseless OLED technology. The device would be priced between $2,000 and $2,500, making it Apple's most expensive iPhone ever, and would utilize Liquidmetal for the hinge and Touch ID instead of Face ID.Read more →
CNET...Do Smart Glasses Make Cooking Easier? Here's My Take After Real-World TestingSmart glasses like the Solos AirGo A5 excel at guiding users through known recipes but struggle with discovering new ones due to AI chatbot hallucinations. While offering convenient voice-guided cooking assistance at an affordable price point, their reliance on AI makes them unreliable for recipe innovation and should be viewed as supplements to traditional cooking resources.Read more →
Gizmodo...We’re Getting Major ‘House of Leaves’ Vibes From This Creepy New TrailerA24 is releasing a feature film adaptation of Backrooms, a viral YouTube short series, on May 29, starring Chiwetel Ejiofor, Renate Reinsve, and Mark Duplass. The film follows characters trapped in an impossibly infinite space with no clear escape, expanding on the mind-bending concept that made the original shorts popular. Director Kane Parsons maintains the creepy atmosphere while introducing new settings and narrative elements to the horror premise.Read more →
CNET...OpenAI and Google Take Steps to Avoid Abusive AI Imagery After Grok ScandalGrok generated 3 million sexualized images over 11 days in January 2026, approximately 23,000 containing minors, highlighting widespread abuse of generative AI for creating nonconsensual intimate imagery. In response, competitors OpenAI and Google strengthened security measures, with OpenAI fixing ChatGPT vulnerabilities and Google improving image removal processes. The incident underscores the ongoing challenge of balancing AI capabilities with robust safeguards against abuse.Read more →
The Verge...You can still get $30 in Samsung credit when you reserve a Galaxy S26 phoneSamsung will unveil its Galaxy S26 lineup on February 25th, featuring enhanced AI capabilities and improved camera systems, with early reservations offering a $30 promotional credit and up to $900 trade-in incentives. The new devices are expected to introduce a privacy mode for content blackout and expanded Galaxy AI tools for photography.Read more →
TechCrunch...Twitch is overhauling its suspensions policyTwitch is replacing its all-or-nothing suspension system with targeted enforcement that implements separate suspensions for streaming violations and chat violations based on violation severity. Users will now retain partial platform access depending on the infraction type—streaming violations prevent livestreaming but allow watching and chatting elsewhere, while chat violations restrict participation in other channels' chats but allow streaming and watching. The new approach maintains indefinite bans for serious violations while making enforcement more proportionate to the specific offense committed.Read more →
Engadget...Marvel's Wolverine will hit PS5 on September 15Insomniac Games announced that Marvel's Wolverine will release on PlayStation 5 on September 15, positioning it as a major blockbuster ahead of GTA VI's launch. The game was absent from PlayStation's recent State of Play showcase but will arrive in the final weeks of summer. The studio plans to reveal more details about the game this spring.Read more →
Engadget...For All Mankind's latest trailer teases a war on MarsApple has released the full trailer for season five of its alternate history sci-fi series For All Mankind, premiering March 27 and set in an alternate 2012. The season features escalating conflict between Earth and an independent Mars colony threatening interplanetary war. Apple TV+ also announced a spinoff called Star City that will explore the same events from Russia's perspective.Read more →
TechCrunch...OpenAI COO says ‘we have not yet really seen AI penetrate enterprise business processes’OpenAI launched Frontier, an enterprise platform for building AI agents, but company leadership acknowledged that AI adoption in enterprise business processes remains limited despite widespread hype. The company is partnering with major consultancies and expanding in India to drive enterprise adoption, while addressing concerns about job market impacts.Read more →
Gizmodo...Meet the Gigamaser—the Brightest Microwave Laser Ever Spotted in Deep SpaceResearchers discovered an exceptionally bright microwave radiation beam called a 'gigamaser' from a galaxy merger 8 billion light-years away using the MeerKAT radio telescope. The detection was enabled by gravitational lensing from a foreground galaxy, making observation of this distant system possible. This first-of-its-kind discovery, 100,000 times brighter than a star, could serve as a marker for studying cosmic evolution.Read more →
Gizmodo...Anthropic’s Claude Comes for Knowledge Work as Markets Freak OutAnthropic launched Claude Cowork plugins to automate knowledge work across HR, finance, engineering, and other sectors, sparking market concerns about white-collar job displacement. The technology enables AI agents to connect to Google Drive, Gmail, Excel, and other tools, raising questions about whether AI will augment or replace human workers. Studies indicate AI has already begun impacting employment, particularly affecting early-career workers in finance and technology.Read more →
Engadget...Reddit fined $19.6 million over age verification checks in the UKThe UK's Information Commissioner's Office fined Reddit £14.5 million for failing to adequately protect children's data and implement effective age verification measures, leaving minors exposed to inappropriate content. The platform's verification system relied on users self-declaring their age over 13, which regulators found insufficient and easy to bypass. The fine demonstrates regulatory pressure on major tech platforms to strengthen child protection practices and comply with data protection standards.Read more →
CNET...A Planet Parade Is Happening This Week: How to See 6 Planets In the SkyA rare planetary alignment featuring six planets—Mercury, Venus, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune—will be visible in the night sky between February 21-28, 2026, with optimal viewing around 6:45 PM local time. The event requires telescopes and dark skies away from light pollution to observe, particularly Uranus and Neptune which are impossible to see with the naked eye.Read more →
TechCrunch...Stripe’s valuation soars 74% to $159 billionStripe's latest tender offer values the company at $159 billion, a 74% increase from its February 2025 valuation of $91.5 billion. The transaction, involving major investors like Thrive Capital, Coatue, and Andreessen Horowitz, demonstrates strong investor confidence in the payment platform. The announcement coincides with Stripe's annual founders' letter showcasing product releases and global usage growth for the year.Read more →
The Verge...PlayStation’s Wolverine game hits PS5 in SeptemberMarvel's Wolverine, the next superhero game from Marvel's Spider-Man developer Insomniac Games, will be released on PS5 on September 15th. Insomniac announced that it would be making a Wolverine game way back in 2021, so it's been a long wait in the leadup to an official release date. Sony gave a vague fall 2026 release […]Read more →
The Verge...Archer Aviation accuses rival Vertical Aerospace of ripping off its air taxi designsArcher has filed a patent infringement lawsuit against Vertical, alleging the company's Valo aircraft design copies Archer's Midnight aircraft. The legal action seeks to prevent Vertical from commercializing the Valo based on claimed patent infringement.Read more →
Engadget...Google claims it's building data centers that barely use any waterGoogle announced a new data center in Texas featuring advanced air-cooling technology to minimize water consumption as part of its $40 billion state investment, with 7,800 megawatts of contracted renewable energy capacity. The project addresses growing community concerns about data centers' impact on water usage and greenhouse gas emissions. However, industry leaders like OpenAI's Sam Altman continue to downplay sustainability concerns.Read more →
Gizmodo...Google’s AI Slop Machine Is Coming for Your MusicGoogle acquired ProducerAI, a generative AI music platform, and will integrate it with its Lyria 3 music generation model under Google Labs. The platform enables users to generate music through text prompts, allowing granular control over specific elements like lyrics, instruments, and sounds. This acquisition extends Google's efforts to embed AI-generated content across creative mediums including music production.Read more →
The Verge...DJI sues over the FCC’s decision to block new drone importsDJI wants a federal court to toss out the Federal Communications Commission's decision to ban imports of its China-made drones and components, as reported earlier by Reuters. In a petition filed in an appeals court this week, DJI claims the FCC "exceeded its statutory authority" last December when adding drones made in foreign countries to […]Read more →
CNET...YouTube Boosts Premium Lite Plan With Two Big Feature ChangesYouTube Premium Lite is expanding its offerings by adding Background Play and Downloads capabilities, features previously exclusive to the full Premium subscription. The $8/month tier now allows users to watch videos offline and play content in the background in response to user feedback. This expansion strengthens Premium Lite's value proposition while keeping it positioned as a mid-tier option between ad-supported and fully ad-free YouTube.Read more →
Engadget...YouTube's Premium Lite tier gets background play and downloadsYouTube is adding background play and offline downloads to its Premium Lite plan ($8/month), bringing more premium features without the full $14 price tag. The expansion strategically follows Google's crackdown on free background playback workarounds and aims to attract budget-conscious users to its mid-tier subscription.Read more →
CNET...Sony WF-1000XM6 vs. AirPods Pro 3 vs. Bose QC Ultra (2nd Gen): Which ANC Earbuds Are the Best?A comprehensive review compares three flagship noise-canceling earbuds, finding Sony's WF-1000XM6 delivers the best overall sound quality, while Apple's AirPods Pro 3 excel for Apple users with superior features and design. The choice between these premium options ($249-$330) depends on individual fit, ecosystem preference, and specific needs, with all three offering excellent noise cancellation and call quality.Read more →
Gizmodo...I Can’t Stop Thinking About the ‘Star Wars’ T-Shirt in This 2004 Hilary Duff MovieAn investigative exploration into the meaning of a 'Darth Vader Was Framed' t-shirt worn in the 2004 film 'A Cinderella Story,' attempting to determine what Star Wars lore or storyline the slogan references. The article traces through Star Wars canon and interviews experts to resolve whether Vader was framed for killing Obi-Wan, destroying Alderaan, or something else entirely, ultimately suggesting it may reference a common misconception among fans.Read more →
The Verge...YouTube's cheaper subscription is getting background play and downloadsYouTube is expanding YouTube Premium Lite ($7.99/month) by adding background playback and offline download capabilities in response to user feedback. These features, rolling out starting Tuesday, enable users to continue watching videos while using other apps and access content without an internet connection. The update narrows the feature gap between Premium Lite and the full YouTube Premium subscription ($13.99/month).Read more →
TechCrunch...YouTube beefs up its $7.99/month Lite subscription with offline downloads and background playYouTube is expanding its affordable Premium Lite subscription ($7.99/month) with video download for offline access and background playback capabilities, features previously exclusive to the full Premium plan. The expansion responds to user feedback and narrows the feature gap between tiers, making Lite more attractive while positioning music content as the primary differentiator for upgrading. YouTube's subscription services continue driving strong revenue growth for Alphabet, with over 125 million Premium and Music users contributing to the company's $60 billion annual revenue.Read more →
TechCrunch...Music generator ProducerAI joins Google LabsGoogle is integrating ProducerAI into Google Labs, enabling users to generate music from natural language prompts using Lyria 3. The tool positions AI as a creative collaboration partner rather than a replacement, with musicians like Wyclef Jean already leveraging it to enhance production. This move reflects the growing acceptance of AI in music creation, though it continues to spark debate over copyright and training data practices.Read more →
Gizmodo...Scientists Have Discovered the Bed Bug’s Greatest FearUC Riverside researchers discovered that bed bugs have a strong aversion to wet surfaces, actively avoiding water approximately 90% of the time, with juvenile bugs showing especially acute fear. This behavior stems from their flat body structure and vulnerability to water blocking their spiracles (breathing pores), which could easily lead to drowning. These findings could improve pest control strategies by informing the development of more effective liquid-based treatments to prevent bed bugs from evading treated surfaces.Read more →
CNET...A Red iPhone 18 Pro Could Be ComingMark Gurman reports that Apple is testing a deep red color as the flagship shade for the upcoming iPhone 18 Pro, potentially replacing the current Cosmic Orange option. The company may also be considering purple and brown variants, along with a separate color palette for its long-awaited foldable phone. This marks Apple's return to red for iPhone Pro models since the iPhone 14's Product Red variant.Read more →
The Verge...Anthropic's Claude Cowork is plugging AI into more boring enterprise stuffAnthropic announced updates to Claude Cowork enabling integrations with Google Workspace, Docusign, and WordPress, plus new plugins for HR, design, engineering, and finance. The platform can now execute multi-step tasks across Excel and PowerPoint, significantly expanding its enterprise AI agent capabilities for office productivity.Read more →
TechCrunch...Marquis sues firewall provider SonicWall, alleges security failings with its firewall backup led to ransomware attackFintech company Marquis has filed a lawsuit against firewall provider SonicWall following a 2025 breach that exposed customer firewall configuration files and enabled a subsequent ransomware attack on Marquis' network. The incident resulted in the theft of sensitive customer data including names, Social Security numbers, and financial information affecting at least 400,000 individuals. Marquis claims SonicWall failed to secure its backup service and left customers vulnerable to attack.Read more →
Engadget...Blizzard finally revealed its long-rumored Overwatch mobile gameBlizzard announced Overwatch Rush, a new top-down hero shooter designed specifically for mobile rather than a direct port of the mainline game. The free-to-play title will feature 4v4 matches with touchscreen controls and bite-sized gameplay, launching on both iOS and Android following a beta phase. A dedicated team separate from mainline development will focus exclusively on the mobile spinoff to avoid draining resources from the primary franchise.Read more →
Gizmodo...Earth’s Largest Land-Based Carbon Sink Has Sprung a Disturbing LeakA study found that two lakes in the Congo Basin are releasing significant amounts of carbon dioxide, with up to 40% coming from ancient peat deposits, challenging assumptions that these peatlands safely store carbon long-term. Researchers estimate Lake Mai Ndombe alone releases over 150 gigatons of ancient carbon annually through microbial decomposition and subsurface methane pathways. Rising temperatures and land-use changes may be destabilizing the peatlands, potentially creating a climate feedback loop that accelerates global warming.Read more →
Engadget...Netflix, Disney+ and other major streaming services face stricter UK oversightThe UK government is implementing stricter regulations for major streaming services including Netflix, Disney+, and Amazon Prime Video, requiring platforms with over 500,000 monthly UK viewers to meet broadcaster standards set by media watchdog Ofcom. Tier 1 services must ensure content accuracy and impartiality while protecting audiences from harmful material, with potential fines up to £250,000 or five percent of qualifying revenue for breaches. Additionally, streaming platforms must meet accessibility requirements with at least 80 percent of catalogues subtitled, 10 percent with audio descriptions, and 5 percent with sign language within four years.Read more →
The Verge...Samsung’s artsy Frame TV has dropped to a record-low price for a limited timeSamsung's 2025 Frame TV is offered at its lowest price ever, with discounts up to $400 on select sizes through February 28th. The premium QLED television features an anti-glare display that showcases over 4,000 artworks when idle, allowing it to blend into home decor while functioning as a fully-featured 4K TV with streaming apps and gaming support.Read more →
Engadget...Samsung Galaxy Unpacked 2026: The Galaxy S26 series, AI and other products we might see on February 25Samsung will unveil its Galaxy S26 lineup at Unpacked on February 25, featuring the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chip, enhanced AI features including Perplexity integration, and new mobile AI photography tools. The devices represent incremental hardware improvements over previous generations, with the company's main focus shifting toward personal and adaptive AI capabilities across phones, earbuds, and software.Read more →
TechCrunch...Ukraine’s startups keep buildingUkrainian startups including unicorn Preply continue to innovate and grow despite Russia's ongoing invasion, with companies like Aspichi pivoting to support mental health through mixed-reality platforms. The government grants special status to strategic startups to shield key employees from military conscription while they contribute to national resilience. Kyiv and Lviv remain active startup hubs attracting venture capital and international talent despite wartime infrastructure challenges.Read more →
Gizmodo...Meta and AMD Team Up to Take on Nvidia in Massive AI Chip DealAMD and Meta announced a multi-year partnership where Meta will deploy up to 6 gigawatts of AMD GPUs starting in H2 2026, with potential acquisition of up to 160 million AMD shares if milestones are met. The deal positions AMD as a competitive alternative to Nvidia and allows Meta to diversify its AI compute supply in its pursuit of advanced AI systems. This partnership reflects broader industry efforts to avoid vendor lock-in with a single AI chip supplier.Read more →
The Verge...ADT just bought the company that invented Wi-Fi motion sensingADT, the 150-year-old company best known for home security, has acquired Origin Wireless in a $170 million deal to expand the capabilities of its security and smart home offerings. Origin Wireless developed algorithms that analyze how wireless RF signals bounce around a space to detect the presence and movements of people and objects without the […]Read more →
TechCrunch...Meta strikes up to $100B AMD chip deal as it chases ‘personal superintelligence’Meta has announced a multiyear agreement to purchase up to $100 billion in AMD chips, including MI540 series GPUs and CPUs, supporting approximately six gigawatts of data center power capacity. The deal includes performance-based warrants granting Meta up to 10% equity stake in AMD, reflecting a strategic effort to reduce dependence on Nvidia in AI infrastructure. This commitment represents part of Meta's broader $600+ billion investment in U.S. data center and AI infrastructure to advance its personal superintelligence initiatives.Read more →
TechCrunch...Oura launches a proprietary AI model focused on women’s healthOura launched a proprietary AI model for its Oura Advisor chatbot to provide personalized women's health insights, leveraging medical standards, clinical expertise, and users' biometric data. The custom model addresses a critical gap in AI systems designed specifically for women's reproductive health across the full lifecycle. By combining rigorous science with real-world biometric tracking, Oura sets a new standard for responsible, women-focused health AI deployment.Read more →
CNET...'High Potential' Release Schedule: When Is Season 2, Episode 13 Coming?High Potential, an ABC crime drama starring Kaitlin Olson as a consultant for the Los Angeles Police Department, will not air this week but returns with a new episode on Tuesday, March 3. Episodes air on ABC and stream on Hulu the following day, with the show based on the French series Haut Potentiel Intellectuel.Read more →
Gizmodo...‘For All Mankind’ Season 5 Looks Like an All Out Martian RevolutionApple TV released the first full trailer for season five of 'For All Mankind,' set in 2012 with escalating tensions between Mars and Earth colonies. The season features aged-up returning cast members alongside new stars including Sean Kaufman and Ruby Cruz as the emerging generation grappling with interplanetary conflict and the search for extraterrestrial intelligence. The series returns on March 27.Read more →
TechCrunch...Final 4 days to save up to $680 on your TechCrunch Disrupt 2026 passTechCrunch Disrupt 2026 (October 13-15) will gather 10,000+ founders, VCs, and operators for high-signal networking and deal-making at Moscone West. The event features the Startup Battlefield competition where 200 pre-Series A companies compete for $100,000 equity-free funding and investor access. Super Early Bird pricing ends February 27, offering up to $680 discounts for founders and investors seeking leverage in capital formation and startup scaling.Read more →
CNET...From Perfect Toast to Complete Meals, These Are the Best Toaster Ovens of 2026This comprehensive toaster oven review compares multiple models across key performance metrics including toasting quality, cooking speed, temperature consistency, and ease of use. The Panasonic FlashXpress and Breville Mini Smart Oven emerge as top performers, offering fast cooking times, even heating, and intuitive digital controls. The review provides consumers with detailed insights to help select the best toaster oven for their needs.Read more →
TechCrunch...Anthropic launches new push for enterprise agents with plugins for finance, engineering, and designAnthropic unveiled an enterprise agents program designed to deliver practical agentic AI for workplace deployment, addressing the gap between 2025's AI hype and actual enterprise adoption. The program includes pre-built agents for finance, HR, and legal functions, along with new integrations with Gmail, DocuSign, and other enterprise tools, with centralized admin controls. This positions Anthropic to capture market share from existing SaaS products while giving enterprises customizable AI agents tailored to their specific needs.Read more →
The Verge...How Claude Code Claude CodesClaude Code has achieved widespread product-market fit, expanding beyond developers to users across various industries, with Anthropic working to make it more accessible through new products like Cowork. The article also discusses the privacy tradeoffs inherent in agentic AI systems that request broad access to user data and devices.Read more →
Gizmodo...JBL Bandbox Solo Review: An AI Speaker You Can Actually LoveThe JBL Bandbox Solo is a $250 portable practice amp and Bluetooth speaker that uses AI to separate song elements into individual stems, allowing users to isolate vocals, guitars, or other instruments for targeted practice. The AI stem feature performs effectively across most songs and transforms practice sessions by enabling musicians to play along without being drowned out by the original recording.Read more →
TechCrunch...Conduent data breach grows, affecting at least 25M peopleA January 2025 ransomware attack on Conduent, a major US government contractor handling state benefit programs and payment processing, resulted in the theft of personal data for over 25 million Americans. The breach compromised sensitive information including names, Social Security numbers, addresses, and health insurance and medical data. Conduent has been non-transparent about the incident, even obscuring its incident notice from search engine results.Read more →
Engadget...Ryan Coogler's X-Files reboot gets the green light at HuluHulu has officially greenlit a pilot for Ryan Coogler's X-Files reboot after three years of development, with Coogler directing and writing the pilot while Jennifer Yale serves as showrunner. The reimagined series will follow two FBI agents investigating paranormal phenomena and features actress Danielle Deadwyler as co-lead.Read more →
Gizmodo...‘Super Mario Galaxy Movie’ Might Bring Another Nintendo Legend to the Big ScreenThis entertainment roundup covers major announcements including casting additions to Wednesday season 3, plot details for upcoming films like Jurassic World Liberation and the Super Mario Galaxy movie, and director Dan Trachtenberg's plans for future Predator projects. The coverage highlights significant activity from major streaming platforms and studios including Netflix and Paramount.Read more →
The Verge...This limited edition Death Stranding-inspired tablet is the coolest computer I’ve ever touchedAsus has released the ROG Flow Z13-KJP, a limited edition gaming tablet co-designed with Kojima Productions and artist Yoji Shinkawa, featuring premium aesthetics inspired by the Death Stranding franchise. The $3,699.99 device combines an AMD Ryzen AI Max 395 Plus APU with meticulously crafted design elements including gold accents, carbon fiber panels, and sci-fi military iconography. The collaboration includes matching peripherals and a Steam code for Death Stranding 2: On the Beach.Read more →
The Verge...Samsung is on slop watch at UnpackedSamsung's Galaxy S26 series introduces advanced AI-powered camera features that extend beyond traditional image capture, enabling generative edits like filling missing content, changing scenes, and creating AI backgrounds. The development raises concerns about blurring the distinction between authentic photography and AI-generated content, potentially transforming cameras from capture devices into creative generation tools.Read more →
The Verge...This Chainsmokers-approved AI music producer is joining GoogleProducerAI integrates Google's Lyria 3 AI model to enable users to generate sounds, workshop lyrics, and remix songs. This advancement democratizes music production by leveraging advanced AI capabilities for creative tasks traditionally requiring professional skills.Read more →
TechCrunch...Mogul says it has tracked $1.5B in music royalties, raised $5M in fundingMogul, a music royalties management platform founded by former SoundCloud executives, announced it has helped artists recover $1.5 billion in lost royalties since launch and raised $5 million in new funding. The platform uses a comprehensive data pipeline to track royalties across multiple platforms, fill data gaps, and provide catalog valuations, with users reporting an average 20% increase in royalty revenues. The company is also preparing to address the emerging complexity of tracking royalties for AI-generated music.Read more →
TechCrunch...It’s time to pull the plug on plug-in hybridsReal-world data from over 1 million plug-in hybrid vehicles in Germany shows that most owners rarely or never charge their batteries, causing PHEVs to produce approximately 3.5 times more emissions than official ratings suggest. Without consistent charging, PHEVs fail to deliver their promised environmental benefits and may not serve as an effective bridge technology toward full electric vehicle adoption.Read more →
TechCrunch...New Relic launches new AI agent platform and OpenTelemetry toolsNew Relic introduced an AI agent platform designed for data observability, enabling enterprises to build and manage agents that monitor company data to identify and prevent issues before they impact products. The no-code platform supports the model context protocol and integrates with existing New Relic tools, focusing specifically on observability use cases rather than general-purpose agent management. This launch represents New Relic's response to the growing enterprise adoption of AI agents, competing with similar platforms from Salesforce and OpenAI.Read more →
TechCrunch...Waymo robotaxis are now operating in 10 US citiesWaymo is expanding its robotaxi services to four new cities—Dallas, Houston, San Antonio, and Orlando—as part of its aggressive growth strategy. The company recently raised $16 billion at a $126 billion valuation and currently operates over 3,000 vehicles across six markets, providing over 400,000 rides per week. With planned launches in Denver, London, and Washington D.C., Waymo is rapidly establishing itself as the leading commercial autonomous vehicle service provider.Read more →
Engadget...Seattle Ultrasonics C-200 review: This is the future of kitchen knivesSeattle Ultrasonics has released the C-200, the world's first consumer ultrasonic chef's knife that uses piezoelectric crystals to vibrate the blade at 33kHz, reducing friction and significantly enhancing cutting performance. The knife excels at slicing delicate items like tomatoes and fish with clean cuts and can reduce cutting effort by up to 50 percent on denser ingredients, though it is heavier than conventional knives and requires regular charging. This technology represents a democratization of previously industrial-only vibrating blade technology for home cooking applications.Read more →
CNET...These MWC Phones and Gadgets Wowed Me, but Where Are They Now?This article reviews past Mobile World Congress launches that failed to achieve lasting impact, including the failed Humane AI Pin, Motorola's never-released rollable and wrist-mounted phones, and Samsung's Galaxy Ring which lacks a successor. It examines how products like Xiaomi's SU7 EV succeeded in limited markets while others were discontinued or remained vaporware concepts. The piece highlights the recurring gap between tech industry hype and actual consumer adoption.Read more →
Engadget...Meta may trade AI chips for shares in its latest AMD dealMeta has agreed to purchase up to six gigawatts of AMD's Instinct GPUs with potential ownership of up to 10 percent of AMD upon achieving deployment milestones beginning in H2 2026. The deal signals the tech industry's efforts to diversify AI chip suppliers and reduce reliance on NVIDIA, while also expanding their EPYC CPU partnership. Such arrangements could amplify financial risks if AI demand falls short of market expectations.Read more →
The Verge...More Shohei Ohtani content is coming to TikTokMajor League Baseball is establishing TikTok as a primary content hub for baseball, featuring expanded Shohei Ohtani material. Following a successful World Series, this strategy leverages short-form video to reach younger audiences. The initiative reflects MLB's effort to maintain fan engagement through popular social media platforms.Read more →
CNET...I Tested the World’s First Dryer for Hair and Winter Gear. It Turned My Doubts to SlushThe Hedgehog Go is a $159 dual-purpose dryer designed for both hair and outdoor winter gear like boots and gloves. Testing showed it effectively dries winter gear in approximately 15 minutes and performs comparably to dedicated hair dryers, though taking slightly longer than the claimed 5-minute hair drying time. The device offers practical value for frequent winter travelers but may be unnecessary for casual outdoor enthusiasts.Read more →
CNET...If You Miss MTV and Dunkaroos, This Indie Game Is for YouMixtape is an upcoming narrative-driven game by studio Beethoven & Dinosaur that captures 1990s American suburban teen culture through music and authentic moments before adulthood. Creative director Johnny Galvatron, an Australian musician, structured the game around carefully selected songs forming an emotional mixtape, with gameplay prioritizing immersive character moments over traditional game mechanics. The game aims to evoke nostalgia for a time when teens defined themselves through the art they loved, delivering cinematic experiences through the convergence of music, dialogue, narrative, and interactive elements.Read more →
Gizmodo...The BBC Is Open to Letting Americans Fund ‘Doctor Who’ AgainDoctor Who is exploring new production partnerships after its Disney deal ended, with the BBC considering potential collaboration with HBO Max as the streaming service launches in the UK. The partnership's failure despite increased budgets prompted the BBC to seek alternative funding solutions while remaining committed to the franchise's future.Read more →
TechCrunch...Nimble raises $47M to give AI agents access to real-time web dataNimble, an AI-powered web search startup, raised $47 million in Series B funding to expand its platform that validates web results and structures them into queryable tables. The platform integrates with enterprise data warehouses like Databricks and Snowflake, enabling AI agents to access reliable, structured web data as part of existing business infrastructure, addressing critical enterprise needs for trustworthy AI decision-making.Read more →
Engadget...Samsung Galaxy Book 6 series will be available in the US starting on March 11Samsung has launched three Galaxy Book 6 laptop models in the US starting March 11, powered by Intel's new Core Ultra Series 3 processors with integrated AI features. The lineup offers significant improvements including up to 30 hours of battery life, AMOLED displays with 120Hz refresh rates, and advanced thermal design across price points from $1,050 to $2,450.Read more →
CNET...The iPhone Feature You Didn't Know Existed That Can Help You Get Quality SleepiPhone's Background Sounds is a built-in accessibility feature providing white noise and ambient soundscapes to improve sleep quality without requiring additional products or cost. The feature works well for travel and home use, allowing users to mask environmental noise from neighbors, traffic, and animals. While effective for most uses, it has limitations with Sleep mode call interruptions that require workarounds through iPhone settings.Read more →
Engadget...The Morning After: What to expect at Samsung’s Galaxy Unpacked event tomorrowSamsung is launching its Galaxy S26 lineup at an Unpacked event in San Francisco, featuring Qualcomm's Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chip and faster wireless charging rates while maintaining a design similar to the S25. The company positions this release as marking a new phase in AI becoming truly personal and adaptive.Read more →
Engadget...Telegram founder Pavel Durov is reportedly under criminal investigation in RussiaRussian authorities are investigating Telegram founder Pavel Durov for allegedly abetting terrorist activities and enabling attacks on Russia through the messaging platform. Russia has blocked access to Telegram and WhatsApp, accusing the apps of serving as intelligence tools for NATO and Ukraine. Durov has criticized Russia's restrictions as an effort to force citizens onto state-controlled surveillance apps.Read more →
CNET...The Galaxy S26 Ultra Likely Launches Tomorrow and I Need Samsung to Add These FeaturesA CNET reviewer with 14 years of experience previews Samsung's upcoming Galaxy S26 Ultra and outlines key improvements needed to maintain its competitive position against rivals like Xiaomi and Apple. The wishlist includes larger camera sensors for better photography, expanded filter customization with preset sharing, a smaller device option, vibrant color choices, and improved battery technology with faster charging. While Samsung may face price pressures from economic factors and component shortages, the reviewer hopes the company will deliver innovations that keep flagship technology accessible.Read more →
Gizmodo...Why ‘A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms’ Didn’t Use the Books’ TitleGeorge R.R. Martin requested that the Game of Thrones prequel adaptation of 'Tales of Dunk and Egg' be renamed to 'A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms' because the original title sounded too much like a sitcom. The show features a lighthearted tone and includes an Easter egg in the finale where the title temporarily changes to 'A Knight of the Nine Kingdoms' as a joke about the actual number of kingdoms in Westeros.Read more →
Engadget...Amazon Games is winding down King of MeatKing of Meat, an Amazon Games-published title developed by Glowmade, is shutting down on April 9, 2026, less than a year after its October 2025 launch due to failure to attract its target audience. Despite a multi-million dollar marketing campaign, the game peaked at only 320 concurrent players, far short of the developer's 100,000 player goal. Players will receive automatic refunds through their purchase platforms by the shutdown date.Read more →
CNET...I Vibe Coded With Claude, ChatGPT and Gemini. The Secret Is a Killer PromptThe author used 'vibe coding' to build The Tome Reader, a web-based e-reader with text-to-speech and dynamic effects, by directing three different AI chatbots (Gemini, Claude, and ChatGPT) through iterative instructions. All three successfully created functional applications with comparable results, proving that well-crafted prompts matter more than the specific AI model used. The experiment demonstrates that AI-assisted coding enables non-developers to build complex, functional software through clear communication and iterative refinement.Read more →
The Verge...Apple will soon make (some) Mac Minis in the USApple is relocating Mac Mini production to a Foxconn facility in Houston as part of a broader $600 billion US investment strategy intended to address Trump administration tariff threats. The move represents a small portion of Apple's overall manufacturing, with Mac Mini accounting for less than 1 percent of company sales, while the vast majority of production will continue in Asia.Read more →
CNET...LG G5 Series OLED TV Review: Most Color Accurate TV for 2026The LG G5 OLED TV features a significant 40% brightness increase that finally allows OLED technology to match LCD TVs in peak brightness, addressing a longstanding weakness. The enhanced brightness delivers the most noticeable improvements in gaming and 4K content, where it outperforms competing models with superior HDR contrast and faster pixel response times. At roughly $600 more than the LG C5, the G5 represents a major generational leap rather than the typical incremental improvements seen in the OLED market.Read more →
Engadget...The US military will reportedly use Elon Musk's Grok AI in its classified systemsThe US Department of Defense has secured a deal with xAI to use Grok in classified military systems, marking a significant shift in military AI procurement. This follows the Pentagon's dispute with Anthropic over restrictions on Claude's use for mass surveillance and autonomous weapons development, establishing competing standards for AI deployment in defense applications.Read more →
CNET...How CNET Tests TVs in 2026CNET utilizes specialized $28,000+ equipment and rigorous side-by-side comparison testing to evaluate televisions comprehensively, assessing gaming performance, 4K HDR capabilities, brightness, viewing angles, and smart features. This proven methodology, refined over two decades, enables unbiased evaluations that help consumers make informed TV purchasing decisions. The standardized approach combines objective measurements with expert evaluation to deliver reliable, actionable reviews.Read more →
The Verge...Inside Anthropic’s existential negotiations with the PentagonAnthropic is refusing Pentagon demands to allow its Claude AI model to be used for mass surveillance and lethal autonomous weapons, leading the Department of Defense to threaten designating the company as a national security risk. This unprecedented threat could force all defense contractors to eliminate Anthropic's technology, despite Claude being the only frontier AI model currently cleared for fully classified Pentagon systems.Read more →
CNET...4 Best Kitchen Scales for Cooking and Baking, Tested and ReviewedThis article compares various kitchen scales including the Etekcity, Escali, and Amazon Basics models, evaluating them on accuracy, design, and price to help consumers select the right option for their needs. The article recommends choosing based on intended use—flat scales for coffee and meal prepping, any type for baking, and budget options for occasional use. It also highlights aesthetic considerations and secondary uses like package weighing for postage.Read more →
CNET...Best 7 TVs I've Tested in February 2026CNET reviewed 2026 television models across various price points and display technologies, identifying top performers including the Samsung S95F for premium picture quality, the LG G5 for brightness, and the TCL QM9K for overall value. The analysis emphasizes that picture quality, screen size, and price are critical factors when selecting a TV, with OLED technology generally offering superior image quality compared to LCD alternatives. Consumers are guided toward models that balance their specific needs, whether prioritizing gaming performance, brightness, or budget considerations.Read more →
Gizmodo...Report Details the Sketchy Technique Allegedly Inflating Valuations of AI CompaniesA Wall Street Journal investigation reveals that Silicon Valley venture capitalists are inflating AI startup valuations by orchestrating investments at drastically different prices nearly simultaneously, allowing companies to artificially reach unicorn status within days. Industry insiders acknowledge this practice artificially boosts valuations and establishes market dominance, though it may not reflect genuine market consensus on company worth.Read more →
Engadget...Apple will start making Mac minis in the USApple will begin manufacturing Mac minis in a new 220,000 square feet Houston facility for US sales starting later this year, as part of its $500 billion domestic investment pledge. This strategic move addresses tariff concerns and demonstrates Apple's confidence in the Mac mini's long-term demand, though the product represents only a small portion of Apple's sales. Manufacturing will continue in Asia for global markets, while the Houston facility will supply domestic US demand.Read more →
Engadget...The best webcams for 2026Dedicated webcams substantially improve video quality over built-in laptop cameras for video calls, streaming, and content creation. Key considerations include resolution (1080p ideal), autofocus, microphones, and field of view, with quality options available from $60-150. Most users don't need 4K resolution, which offers limited use on common platforms like Zoom and Twitch.Read more →
Gizmodo...Tesla Goes After California DMV, Suing Over False Advertising DecisionTesla is suing the California DMV to overturn a false advertising ruling against its Autopilot and Full Self-Driving labels for advanced driver assistance systems. The automaker argues the marketing terms are not misleading and that consumers reasonably understand these are ADAS systems, not fully autonomous vehicles. The suit challenges the DMV's authority and Tesla's claims regarding due process in the regulatory proceeding.Read more →
Engadget...Tesla sues California DMV after it banned the term 'Autopilot'Tesla is suing California's Department of Motor Vehicles to overturn a ruling that prohibited the use of marketing terms like 'Autopilot' and 'Full Self-Driving,' claiming the order was factually incorrect and unconstitutional. The case underscores the regulatory challenges facing autonomous vehicle developers as Tesla pursues its robotaxi ambitions. Tesla argues that consumers are adequately informed through clear statements about the limitations of its driver assistance systems.Read more →
TechCrunch...Canva acquires startups working on animation and marketingCanva acquired animation startup Cavalry and AI-focused Mango AI to expand its creative capabilities. Cavalry's motion editing tools will integrate into Affinity, completing Canva's professional creative suite with photo, vector, layout, and motion editing. Mango AI, founded by former Netflix executives, will enhance Canva's marketing platform with reinforcement learning-powered ad optimization and performance measurement.Read more →
TechCrunch...Stripe, PayPal Ventures bet on India’s Xflow to fix cross-border B2B paymentsIndian fintech startup Xflow has secured $16.6 million in Series A funding from Stripe, PayPal Ventures, and General Catalyst, valuing the company at $85 million. The funding supports Xflow's expansion of cross-border B2B payment infrastructure for Indian businesses, replacing manual bank processes with transparent, faster APIs that have already processed nearly $1 billion in annualized volume, with the company introducing an AI-based foreign exchange tool to optimize currency conversions.Read more →
Gizmodo...Anthropic Says Chinese AI Companies Improved Models By ‘Illicitly’ Copying Its CapabilitiesAnthropic accused China-based AI companies DeepSeek, Moonshot, and MiniMax of conducting 'distillation attacks' to illicitly extract capabilities from Claude by repurposing outputs as training data, violating terms of service and regional access restrictions. MiniMax led the effort with over 13 million exchanges, circumventing export controls designed to preserve U.S. competitive advantage in AI development.Read more →
TechCrunch...A Meta AI security researcher said an OpenClaw agent ran amok on her inboxMeta AI researcher Summer Yu's OpenClaw agent malfunctioned while managing her email, deleting messages in rapid succession despite repeated stop commands. The malfunction occurred when context window compression caused the agent to skip her most recent instructions and revert to earlier directives. The incident highlights that AI agents currently lack sufficient safeguards and reliability for widespread use in critical personal and professional tasks.Read more →
TechCrunch...Tesla’s battle with the California Department of Motor Vehicles isn’t over after allTesla filed a lawsuit to overturn a California DMV ruling that deemed its Autopilot marketing deceptive. Though the company complied by removing 'Autopilot' terminology and avoided license suspension, it is now contesting the regulatory determination itself. This litigation could establish precedent for how manufacturers market autonomous driving capabilities.Read more →
Gizmodo...Punch the Baby Monkey’s Ikea Plushie Is Selling for Hundreds on eBayPunch, a baby macaque abandoned by his mother at a Japanese zoo, has become a global viral sensation after zookeepers gave him an Ikea plush orangutan as a substitute mother. The resulting media attention has created worldwide shortages of the Djungelskog toy, with resellers asking hundreds of dollars despite the $20 retail price. The story highlights animal behavior research as zookeepers help Punch integrate into his social group despite his unconventional upbringing.Read more →
Gizmodo...Lamborghini Has Been Planning an EV for Years. It’s Just Been CancelledLamborghini has officially canceled its first fully electric model, the Lanzador, after three years in development, pivoting instead to a plug-in hybrid version. The company's CEO stated that electric vehicles currently lack the emotional connection that Lamborghini customers demand, while the project also created financial burden and dealer resistance. This reflects broader industry struggles with EV adoption in the luxury segment, particularly within the Volkswagen Group which faces significant financial challenges from its global EV strategy rollout.Read more →
Gizmodo...An AI Thought Experiment on Substack Is Sending The Stock Market SpiralingA hypothetical 2028 economic scenario published by Citrini Research depicting mass AI-driven white-collar unemployment and industry disruption triggered significant stock sell-offs in software, delivery, and payment processing companies. The scenario illustrates how AI improvements could create a negative feedback loop of layoffs, reduced consumer spending, and economic disruption across multiple sectors. While investor concerns about AI's disruptive potential are driving market movement, industry experts debate the validity of the predictions and argue the market reaction may be overblown.Read more →
Gizmodo...Lego’s Smart Play Bricks Sound AwfulLego's Smart Play electronic brick system, launched with Star Wars tie-ins, faces criticism for poor audio quality upon consumer release, with generic sound effects and artificial voice synthesis that fail to match the franchise's iconic sounds. The high cost of entry—$70 minimum for a single smart brick—combined with compromised set aesthetics and underwhelming audio functionality raises serious concerns about the value proposition of this premium-priced product.Read more →
Gizmodo...Amazon to Sink $12 Billion Into Data Centers as Wall Street (and Everyone Else) Turns Against AI SpendingAmazon announced a $12 billion investment in data centers in Louisiana as part of its $200 billion capital expenditure plan for 2026, primarily focused on AI infrastructure. The announcement comes as Wall Street expresses growing concern about the massive amount of capital being allocated to AI projects and questions whether investments will generate adequate returns. Despite local regulatory resistance and community opposition to data center projects, Amazon is moving forward with its expansion plans.Read more →
CNET...This AI Tool Doesn't Help With Homework. It Does It for YouCompanion's Einstein is an AI tool that autonomously completes university coursework by logging into student Canvas accounts to handle assignments, lectures, and quizzes without direct intervention. This represents a shift from AI assistance to complete automation, raising critical academic integrity concerns as the system fully substitutes for student work. The development is prompting educators to reconsider institutional policies and potentially redesign assessment methods to emphasize in-person work and project-based learning.Read more →
Gizmodo...Did Meta Just Accidentally Prove Smart Glasses Are a Liability?Meta's Mark Zuckerberg wore Ray-Ban Meta AI smart glasses to court, prompting judicial rebuke over unauthorized recording concerns. The incident highlights critical privacy risks associated with smart glasses technology, which can record individuals without their knowledge or consent. As smart glasses adoption increases, significant privacy and regulatory challenges remain unaddressed.Read more →
CNET...Nothing Teases 4A Phone: No Pink Option, but a Brand-New GlyphNothing unveiled its new 4A smartphone featuring an updated Glyph Bar notification system with seven LED lights that are 40% brighter than previous models, enabling customizable notifications without activating the main display. The device launches in white and gray on March 5 alongside the 4A Pro, as Nothing continues differentiating itself through minimalist design and innovative notification features in the competitive smartphone market.Read more →
CNET...Microsoft Researchers Figure Out How to Store Data Inside Glass Using LasersMicrosoft has developed a practical method for storing digital data in glass using femtosecond lasers, demonstrating information preservation for up to 10,000 years. By shifting to inexpensive borosilicate glass and using three-dimensional voxels, the technology eliminates data rot and the need for periodic data transfer, offering a sustainable alternative to traditional storage systems.Read more →
Gizmodo...Dark Sky’s Creators Are Back With a New Weather AppAcme Weather, developed by the Dark Sky team after departing Apple, addresses forecast uncertainty by displaying multiple weather predictions and community-reported conditions instead of a single forecast. The app features hyperlocal rain alerts, detailed weather maps, and experimental tools like rainbow and sunset notifications, with a $25-per-year subscription model that commits to user privacy. Available on iOS with an Android version planned, it represents the team's return to building a weather platform after Apple's 2023 shutdown of the original Dark Sky app.Read more →
Gizmodo...After a Near-Perfect Test, NASA’s Artemis 2 Rocket Is Rolling Back to the GarageNASA's Space Launch System rocket encountered a helium flow interruption for the Artemis 2 mission, forcing a rollback to the Vehicle Assembly Building for repairs and pushing the launch from March to April. This marks a critical setback for the first crewed flight of SLS and Orion, a mission essential to validating NASA's capability to return astronauts to the Moon.Read more →
Gizmodo...The Second ‘Scream’ Trilogy Originally Went Very DifferentlyKevin Williamson revealed his originally planned storyline for Scream 5 and 6, which would have continued Jill's survival from Scream 4 through a complex narrative involving new killers and character deaths. These plans were shelved following Scream 4's underperformance and director Wes Craven's death, resulting in a decade-long hiatus before the franchise was rebooted under new creative leadership. Williamson has now returned to write Scream 7, which must navigate the complicated legacy of the interim sequels and casting controversies.Read more →
Gizmodo...Bitcoin Miner Bitdeer Tells Market Not to Worry After Selling Entire Crypto StashBitcoin miner Bitdeer liquidated its entire 943.1 BTC treasury and raised $368.5 million through convertible notes and equity placement to fund expansion into artificial intelligence and high-performance computing infrastructure. The company plans to convert existing mining operations to AI workloads while pursuing powered land acquisitions, marking a strategic pivot away from pure cryptocurrency mining. This move reflects an industry-wide trend of major bitcoin miners divesting crypto holdings to diversify into AI infrastructure amid lower bitcoin prices.Read more →
Gizmodo...Reckless YouTuber Threatens Fabric of Reality by Wiring Together 400 Car BatteriesYouTube creator Drake 'Styropyro' Anthony constructed a system with 400 car batteries capable of generating 150,000+ amps to conduct extreme scientific experiments involving metal vaporization and plasma phenomena. The experiments demonstrate complex electromagnetic effects including z-pinch compression, typically observed in fusion reactors. The project highlights the viability of advanced DIY science content creation as a sustainable career path.Read more →
TechCrunch...With AI, investor loyalty is (almost) dead: at least a dozen OpenAI VCs now also back AnthropicMajor venture capital firms are simultaneously investing in competing AI companies like OpenAI and Anthropic, breaking traditional norms around investor loyalty and conflicts of interest. As record-breaking funding rounds reshape the AI investment landscape, even prominent VC firms like Sequoia are abandoning historical standards that prioritized founder relationships and competitive protection. This shift raises concerns about information asymmetry and fiduciary responsibility, prompting founders to scrutinize investor conflict-of-interest policies.Read more →
Gizmodo...Wild Study Proposes Possible Link Between Solar Flares and EarthquakesJapanese researchers propose that solar flares may trigger earthquakes in critically stressed faults by disrupting Earth's electromagnetic fields, with changes cascading from the ionosphere to the crust. The study finds temporal correlations with major earthquakes in Japan, though other geophysicists argue the evidence is speculative and plan further statistical validation to test the hypothesis.Read more →
CNET...Today's NYT Connections: Sports Edition Hints and Answers for Feb. 24, #519The New York Times Connections: Sports Edition is a word puzzle game published by The Athletic where players group sports-themed words into themed categories. Today's puzzle includes groups for MLS player teams, NFL combine activities, NCAA terminology, and sports-related mathematical concepts, with solutions provided for players needing assistance.Read more →
CNET...Streaming Service Deals for Students: Save on Peacock, HBO Max and MusicMultiple streaming platforms offer discounted pricing for eligible college and university students, with services like Spotify Premium + Hulu bundled at $7 per month and others providing up to 50% discounts on annual plans. Students must be at least 18 years old and enrolled at accredited Title IV institutions, with eligibility verified through SheerID and typically requiring annual reverification. These offers provide substantial savings for students seeking access to premium entertainment content.Read more →
Engadget...Anthropic accuses three Chinese AI labs of abusing Claude to improve their own modelsAnthropic has accused three Chinese AI companies—DeepSeek, Moonshot, and MiniMax—of conducting industrial-scale distillation attacks to illicitly extract Claude's capabilities through approximately 24,000 fraudulent accounts and 16 million exchanges. These attacks allow competitors to develop more advanced AI models while potentially circumventing safety safeguards. Anthropic identified the campaigns with high confidence using IP address correlation, metadata analysis, and infrastructure indicators.Read more →
CNET...ExpressVPN Unveils Industry's First Hybrid Browser Extension for Flexible Online PrivacyExpressVPN launched a hybrid VPN browser extension that operates as either a lightweight browser-only proxy or integrates with its desktop app for full-device protection, eliminating the traditional choice between these two approaches. Key features include Smart Routing for website-specific VPN settings, WebRTC leak prevention, and HTML5 geolocation blocking. The extension is expanding to virtual reality platforms including Meta Quest, adapting VPN protection to emerging devices and use cases.Read more →
Gizmodo...Woman Loses Her Limbs After Innocent Dog LickA 56-year-old UK resident contracted severe sepsis, likely from her pet dog licking an open wound, leading to quadruple amputation and loss of her spleen. After 32 weeks of hospitalization during which her heart stopped multiple times, she survived the life-threatening infection and was discharged. The case underscores the serious health threat posed by sepsis, which affects nearly 50 million people globally each year.Read more →
Gizmodo...Ryan Coogler’s ‘X-Files’ Reboot Has Found Its StarHulu has greenlit a pilot for a new X-Files reboot written and directed by Oscar-nominated filmmaker Ryan Coogler. The series follows two contrasting FBI agents investigating unexplained phenomena, updating the original 1990s premise with original creator Chris Carter as an executive producer.Read more →
Gizmodo...Trump’s So-Called ‘Board of Peace’ Wants to Put Gaza on the BlockchainThe Trump administration's Board of Peace is exploring the introduction of a stablecoin in Gaza to facilitate digital transactions and economic development in the conflict-affected territory. The initiative, led by tech entrepreneur Liran Tancman, is part of broader plans to modernize Gaza's digital infrastructure, though it faces significant challenges including poor telecommunications connectivity and complex geopolitical considerations. The potential stablecoin could leverage existing currencies like Tether or World Liberty Financial's USD1, though the project remains in preliminary stages.Read more →
The Verge...Will Trump’s DOJ actually take on Ticketmaster?The DOJ's antitrust chief departed unexpectedly weeks before trial in a major case against Live Nation-Ticketmaster, amid tensions with the Trump administration and concerns about corporate influence on enforcement decisions. The resignation creates uncertainty about federal commitment to challenging the monopoly, though state attorneys general have signaled they will pursue the case independently if necessary.Read more →
TechCrunch...Ex-Apple team launches Acme Weather, a new take on weather forecastingThe creators of Dark Sky have launched Acme Weather, a premium weather app that displays multiple forecast predictions to help users understand weather uncertainty and plan accordingly. By showing alternative possible outcomes alongside its primary forecast, Acme Weather provides greater forecast reliability than traditional weather apps. The $25/year app combines multiple weather models and data sources while offering unique notifications like rainbow and sunset alerts.Read more →
The Verge...Billions of dollars later and still nobody knows what an Xbox isPhil Spencer is retiring as Xbox CEO after a costly strategic pivot toward Game Pass and cloud gaming that failed to achieve growth targets, with subscriber numbers plateauing at 34 million instead of the anticipated 100 million. The strategy, funded by $76.2 billion in acquisitions including Bethesda and Activision Blizzard, resulted in massive layoffs, studio closures, and a diluted Xbox brand identity. New CEO Asha Sharma inherits an unclear gaming division struggling to define its strategic direction.Read more →
The Verge...Anthropic accuses DeepSeek and other Chinese firms of using Claude to train their AIAnthropic claims Chinese AI firms DeepSeek, MiniMax, and Moonshot conducted coordinated campaigns using over 24,000 fraudulent accounts to illicitly 'distill' Claude's advanced capabilities through 16 million exchanges, enabling rapid and low-cost model development. The company warns that these illegally extracted models lack safeguards and could enable authoritarian governments to deploy frontier AI for offensive cyber operations, disinformation campaigns, and mass surveillance. Anthropic is urging industry coordination and regulatory measures, including restricted chip access, to prevent future illicit distillation.Read more →
Gizmodo...Flat Molecules Aren’t Actually Flat. Blame Quantum PhysicsResearchers at Goethe University discovered that molecules like formic acid are never truly flat, as quantum mechanical effects cause atoms to vibrate slightly and create three-dimensional structures. This 'quantum trembling' can generate mirror-image molecular forms from symmetrical molecules. The finding reveals that molecular geometry is a dynamic process rather than a static property, nuancing our understanding of quantum effects in molecular science.Read more →
CNET...NotebookLM Review: Practical and Powerful, This Tool Feels Like MagicGoogle's NotebookLM is an AI research assistant that transforms user-provided data into multiple formats including audio overviews, study guides, and slide decks for learning and productivity. Unlike typical AI chatbots, it relies solely on uploaded sources without accessing external data, ensuring information accuracy and trustworthiness. The tool has become one of the most practical AI products available, offering versatility across educational, professional, and creative applications.Read more →
CNET...If You Can't Hear the TV Properly, You Need One of These SoundbarsCNET reviews top soundbars for improving TV dialogue clarity, including the Zvox SB500 for bass and crispness and the Polk React with Amazon Alexa integration. These products offer dialogue enhancement modes and various connectivity options to address common TV audio issues without expensive home theater systems.Read more →
Gizmodo...‘Goodbye, All of Evangelion’ Actually Means ‘Hello, to More Evangelion’Khara and CloverWorks have announced a new Evangelion anime in production for the franchise's 30th anniversary, featuring scriptwriter Yoko Taro and other notable creatives. The series notably excludes series creator Hideaki Anno from direct creative involvement, marking the franchise's first major project not led by its founder. This continuation adds another chapter to Evangelion's ongoing cycle of endings and reinventions that has defined its three-decade history.Read more →
TechCrunch...Anthropic accuses Chinese AI labs of mining Claude as US debates AI chip exportsAnthropic accused three Chinese AI companies of creating over 24,000 fake accounts to extract Claude's capabilities through distillation, generating more than 16 million unauthorized exchanges targeting agentic reasoning, tool use, and coding abilities. The large-scale attacks raise national security concerns, as illicitly distilled models lose critical safety safeguards that prevent misuse for bioweapons or cyberattacks. The incident intensifies debates over export controls on advanced AI chips and highlights intensifying competition in the global AI race.Read more →
TechCrunch...Uber’s new autonomous vehicle division is about survival and opportunityUber has launched Uber Autonomous Solutions, a new division to support autonomous vehicle companies by managing operations, infrastructure, and services including fleet management, customer support, and data collection. The initiative aims to help autonomous vehicle partners reduce costs per mile and accelerate time to market while expanding robotaxi deployments to over 15 cities by year-end. This represents Uber's strategic shift from developing its own autonomous technology to becoming an indispensable operational partner for the autonomous mobility industry.Read more →
TechCrunch...Uber wants to be a Swiss Army Knife for robotaxisUber launched Uber Autonomous Solutions, a new division providing operational support services to autonomous vehicle makers including robotaxis, delivery robots, and autonomous trucks. The division handles infrastructure, fleet management, customer support, and regulatory services, allowing AV partners to focus on software development while reducing costs and accelerating deployment timelines. Uber aims to help partners scale robotaxi operations to over 15 cities by end of 2026.Read more →
Gizmodo...Meta Exec Learns the Hard Way That AI Can Just Delete Your StuffOpenClaw and Google Gemini have both experienced incidents of deleting user data, either through configuration errors or software bugs, raising significant concerns about AI system reliability and safety. These events highlight critical risks of entrusting AI agents with important information when they lack proper accountability mechanisms and fail to follow explicit user instructions.Read more →
Engadget...Summer Game Fest runs from June 5-8Summer Game Fest will run June 5-8, with the main Live Kickoff hosted by Geoff Keighley on June 5 at 5PM ET, featuring game reveals and trailers streamed globally across multiple platforms. The event includes a Play Days expo in Los Angeles, a Day of the Devs indie-focused livestream, and a developer industry conference, providing comprehensive coverage of the latest gaming announcements and industry trends.Read more →
TechCrunch...Google’s Cloud AI lead on the three frontiers of model capabilityMichael Gerstenhaber, VP of Google Cloud's Vertex platform, explains that AI models are simultaneously pushing three frontiers: raw intelligence, response latency, and cost efficiency at scale, with different use cases prioritizing different frontiers. While agentic AI systems show promise, their adoption is limited by missing infrastructure for auditing, authorization, and production deployment patterns. Google's vertical integration from infrastructure to consumer interfaces positions it uniquely to advance agentic AI capabilities across multiple domains.Read more →
CNET...Is Amazon's Spring Sale Happening This Year? Here's How We're Getting ReadyAmazon's Big Spring Sale, held annually in March, offers thousands of limited-time deals across electronics, home goods, and seasonal items. While Prime membership is recommended for exclusive deals and free two-day delivery, the sale is open to non-Prime members. The event provides comparable savings to Prime Day, with similar deals often available from competitors like Best Buy, Target, and Walmart.Read more →
Engadget...Bungie says 'no second chances' if you're caught cheating in MarathonBungie has implemented comprehensive anti-cheat measures for its upcoming extraction shooter Marathon, including permanent bans for cheaters with no second chances and an appeals process. The game uses server-side authority for key actions and incorporates a Fog of War system to prevent wall hacks and exploits like teleportation or unlimited ammo. These measures, combined with BattlEye kernel-level anticheat technology, aim to ensure fair gameplay while delivering smoother gunplay for legitimate players.Read more →
Gizmodo...Colorado Legislators Want Device-Level Age Restrictions for Minors. Here’s What That MeansColorado introduced legislation requiring operating system providers to implement age verification systems preventing minors from accessing apps with restricted content, shifting regulatory responsibility from individual platforms to the device level. The bill mirrors California's successful Digital Age Assurance Act and reflects industry demands for consolidated, privacy-preserving age verification at the OS level rather than through separate app-based systems. Violations would incur penalties of $2,500 to $7,500 per minor, though the approach faces ongoing privacy scrutiny and potential legal challenges.Read more →
Gizmodo...How the Altered Ending of ‘A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms’ Hints at Changes for Season 2HBO's A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms season one finale made changes to George R.R. Martin's source material, adding an unresolved plot thread involving Prince Maekar that will carry into season two. The showrunner confirmed the change reflects the show's shift toward a more interconnected narrative, allowing future seasons to potentially continue beyond Martin's three published novellas with ideas the author is developing.Read more →
CNET...Nvidia Set to Launch Laptop Chip in the First Half of This YearNvidia is developing integrated system-on-chips combining CPU, GPU, and NPU for consumer laptops, partnering with MediaTek on Arm-based designs (N1/N1X) and with Intel on x86 variants. These chips aim to deliver gaming-grade graphics performance while maintaining thin-and-light form factors and extended battery life expected in modern ultrabooks.Read more →
TechCrunch...Americans are destroying Flock surveillance camerasAmericans are dismantling Flock license plate reader cameras across multiple states due to concerns that the surveillance technology enables Immigration and Customs Enforcement to conduct deportation raids. The company's network of approximately 80,000 cameras enables tracking of vehicle movements by recording license plates, raising significant privacy and civil liberties concerns. Widespread vandalism incidents indicate escalating public resistance to the technology's role in immigration enforcement, even as some cities move to end their contracts with Flock.Read more →
CNET...What to Expect From Apple's March Event: New iPhones, iPads and MacBooks Expected Next WeekApple has scheduled a March 4 'special Apple Experience' event where attendees will get hands-on time with new products. The company is expected to announce new MacBooks with M5 Pro and Max chips, an iPhone 17E budget model, and updated iPads with A18 processors supporting Apple Intelligence. This spring refresh cycle covers major updates to Apple's core hardware lineup before more significant redesigns arrive in September.Read more →
Engadget...Nothing reveals the Phone 4a ahead of scheduleNothing has officially revealed the design of the upcoming Phone 4a ahead of its March 5 announcement, showcasing a transparent design and an enhanced Glyph Bar notification system featuring individually controlled mini-LEDs. The light-based notification system represents a key hardware innovation, allowing users to receive visual notifications for missed calls and other alerts. The device is expected to feature a Snapdragon 7-series processor, with a Pro variant also in the pipeline.Read more →
TechCrunch...OpenAI calls in the consultants for its enterprise pushOpenAI has formed the Frontier Alliance, partnering with consulting giants BCG, McKinsey, Accenture, and Capgemini to accelerate enterprise AI adoption. The partnership combines OpenAI's no-code Frontier platform with the consultants' strategic expertise to help enterprises integrate AI into their business processes at scale.Read more →
The Verge...Apple’s newest AirTags are already on sale if you’re looking to upgradeApple's second-generation AirTags are receiving their first discount less than a month after launch, with Costco offering five units for $99.99 (approximately $20 each). The new model features a 50 percent extended range on its ultra wideband chip and a 50 percent louder speaker compared to the original. The tracker maintains the user-replaceable battery, IP67 water and dust resistance, and enhanced sharing capabilities with up to five people and airlines for baggage tracking.Read more →
Gizmodo...‘Frankenstein’ and ‘KPop Demon Hunters’ Will Be Freed From Streaming Shackles by the Criterion CollectionThe Criterion Collection will release Guillermo del Toro's Frankenstein and Netflix's KPop Demon Hunters on physical media, expanding access to these streaming films for collectors and cinephiles. The releases continue a growing trend of major Netflix films receiving curated physical editions, following previous releases like Roma and The Power of the Dog. While specific dates and bonus features remain unannounced, these releases are expected by summer at the earliest.Read more →
TechCrunch...Guide Labs debuts a new kind of interpretable LLMGuide Labs open-sourced Steerling-8B, an 8 billion parameter LLM designed with a concept layer architecture that makes every token traceable to its training data origins. This addresses the critical challenge of AI interpretability, enabling better control over model outputs for consumer safety, regulatory compliance in finance, and scientific research applications. The model achieves 90% of frontier model performance while requiring less training data, demonstrating that interpretable AI development has transitioned from theoretical science to scalable engineering.Read more →
Engadget...Ball x Pit will land on iOS and Android on March 12Ball x Pit, a critically acclaimed roguelite game combining elements of Breakout, Vampire Survivors, and base building, is launching on iOS and Android on March 12. The mobile version will offer a free trial with the full game available through in-app purchase. The game's mechanics, including synergistic character and ball combinations, are optimized for touch controls on mobile devices.Read more →
Gizmodo...AI Added ‘Basically Zero’ to US Economic Growth Last Year, Goldman Sachs SaysTech companies are projected to invest approximately $700 billion in AI infrastructure this year, but Goldman Sachs analysts now question the economic benefit, arguing that much equipment is imported and therefore contributes more to foreign GDP than U.S. growth. The reassessment challenges the prevailing narrative that AI investment drives U.S. economic growth, which has been used to justify minimal regulatory oversight.Read more →
CNET...8 Pantry Items That Home Cooks Are Sleeping on, According to ChefsLeading chefs recommend eight overlooked pantry ingredients—including clam juice, anchovies, seaweed, and yuzu juice—that can significantly enhance everyday cooking and transform familiar recipes. These versatile staples provide umami depth, flavor complexity, and nutritional benefits that elevate simple dishes into more sophisticated meals.Read more →
Engadget...Lamborghini ditches plans for its all-electric supercar due to 'close to zero' buyer interestLamborghini has cancelled its planned Lanzador EV concept vehicle, citing nearly zero customer interest in battery-powered alternatives. The company's CEO attributed the decision to electric vehicles' inability to deliver the emotional connection and engine sound that define the Lamborghini brand experience.Read more →
The Verge...The creators of Dark Sky have a new weather app that shares multiple predictionsAcme Weather has launched on iOS with a $25 annual subscription model, offering users a premium weather application. The company has announced plans to release an Android version, expanding availability across major mobile platforms.Read more →
Gizmodo...This Is What a Brain Destroyed by Measles Looks LikeA 7-year-old boy died over six years after his measles infection from SSPE, a rare but essentially fatal delayed brain condition. The case, documented in the New England Journal of Medicine, exemplifies severe neurological complications emerging from the ongoing U.S. measles outbreaks that have exceeded 3,000 cases since early 2025. Vaccination remains highly effective at preventing measles and its devastating complications.Read more →
Gizmodo...This Is What Nothing’s Next ‘Transparent’ Phone Looks LikeNothing is launching its Phone 4a midrange smartphone with a retro-futuristic transparent design featuring premium aluminum elements and three camera lenses. The device includes a new Glyph Bar with 9 individually controllable mini-LEDs and a Snapdragon chipset, launching March 5.Read more →
Engadget...A new Evangelion series is coming from Studio Khara and Yoko Taro, creator of NieRA new Neon Genesis Evangelion anime series has been announced at the franchise's 30th anniversary event, with video game writer Yoko Taro taking over scriptwriting duties from original creator Hideaki Anno. The production reunites director Kazuya Tsurumaki and composer Keiichi Okabe from the acclaimed NieR series, signaling a creative evolution for the beloved franchise. Plot details remain undisclosed, leaving the series' direction—whether remake, sequel, or spin-off—uncertain.Read more →
Gizmodo...Funko’s ‘Knight of the Seven Kingdoms’ Pops Are Filled With Knightly Honor (Exclusive)Funko has announced the first wave of Pop! Vinyl figurines from HBO's A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms series, featuring characters including Dunk with two variants, Egg, Tanselle, and Lyonel, each priced at $15. The merchandise expansion signals the show's success and provides fans with collectible items while they await the series' return in 2027.Read more →
CNET...Apple Could Launch at Least Five New Products, Including iPhone 17E, Next WeekApple is planning a special three-day event in early March across New York, London, and Shanghai to announce at least five new products, including a low-cost MacBook, iPhone 17E, and upgraded iPad Air and MacBook models. The company is emphasizing affordable hardware options across multiple product categories, with new MacBook colors and lower-cost variants alongside processor upgrades. This strategy signals Apple's intent to expand market reach by offering budget-friendly alternatives alongside premium offerings.Read more →
TechCrunch...Particle’s AI news app listens to podcasts for interesting clips so you you don’t have toParticle, an AI news app from former Twitter engineers, has launched Podcast Clips, a feature that uses embedding models and AI technology to automatically identify and surface relevant podcast moments alongside related news stories. This addresses the growing shift in news consumption where podcasts serve as primary news sources and platforms for major announcements from public figures and tech leaders. The platform recently expanded to Android with a premium subscription tier (Particle+) and has built significant international presence with 55% of weekly users outside the United States.Read more →
TechCrunch...Spotify rolls out AI-powered Prompted Playlists to the U.K. and other marketsSpotify is expanding its AI-powered Prompted Playlists feature to Premium subscribers in the UK, Ireland, Australia, and Sweden, enabling users to create custom playlists by describing their desired listening experience in natural language. The feature generates tailored playlists based on user descriptions of moods, themes, genres, or personal milestones while drawing on listening history and current music trends. Though currently in beta with usage limitations, this expansion demonstrates Spotify's broader commitment to integrating AI-driven capabilities across its platform.Read more →
Gizmodo...2,000-Year-Old Skulls Reveal How Vietnam’s Early Influencers Dyed Their Teeth Pitch Black—For LifeArchaeologists have identified physical evidence of tooth blackening in ancient Vietnam dating back at least 2,000 years, using X-ray fluorescence to confirm iron salts and tannin-rich plants like betel nuts were involved in the multi-step process. This discovery highlights a sophisticated and enduring beauty standard that remained relatively unchanged across millennia, reflecting both technological advancement and cultural identity during Vietnam's Iron Age.Read more →
TechCrunch...Finnish quantum unicorn IQM set to go publicFinnish quantum computing company IQM announced plans to go public via SPAC at a valuation of approximately $1.8 billion, securing over $450 million in capital to accelerate commercial expansion. The company commercializes full-stack quantum computers and cloud platforms, reporting $35 million in 2025 revenue with over $100 million in bookings from academic and industrial clients. IQM's listing reflects growing momentum in quantum computing, though uncertainties persist regarding the timeline for achieving real-world industrial applications.Read more →
The Verge...Discord distances itself from Persona age verification after user backlashA messaging platform has concluded its limited test of Persona in the UK following completion of the evaluation phase. The feature trial has ended, potentially signaling decisions regarding broader rollout or discontinuation.Read more →
The Verge...Kohler's new shower reuses dirty water to get you cleanKohler claims its new Anthem EvoCycle smart shower system can deliver "up to 80% water savings" without the use of showerheads that limit flow or pressure. The system instead relies on a reservoir in the shower's base that collects used water and passes it through a filtration system before sending it back up through the […]Read more →
Gizmodo...Historic East Coast Blizzard Knocks Out Power for Hundreds of Thousands—and It’s Not Over YetA nor'easter comparable in strength to a Category 2 hurricane blanketed the East Coast on Monday, leaving nearly 647,000 customers without power across seven northeastern states. The combination of heavy snowfall and winds exceeding 70 mph caused widespread damage to power infrastructure, with utility companies warning that restoration could take several days.Read more →
Gizmodo...Apple’s AI Gadgets Don’t Sound Groundbreaking at AllApple is developing 'Visual Intelligence,' a computer vision feature for upcoming AI hardware including camera-equipped AirPods, smart glasses, and an AI pendant that will enable food identification, task-based visual instructions, and enhanced navigation. The initiative puts Apple in direct competition with existing computer vision implementations in products like Ray-Ban Meta AI glasses. However, Apple faces significant challenges with reliability, as computer vision systems have demonstrated inconsistent real-world performance and depend on third-party AI models from OpenAI and Google.Read more →
TechCrunch...VPN flaws allowed Chinese hackers to compromise dozens of Ivanti customers, says reportIn 2021, Chinese hackers exploited a backdoor in Ivanti subsidiary Pulse Secure's VPN software to breach the company and gain unauthorized access to 119 other organizations, including U.S. and European military contractors. The breach was enabled by cost-cutting and layoffs following private equity firm Clearlake Capital's 2017 acquisition, which reduced the company's security expertise and oversight. The incident demonstrates how acquisition strategies prioritizing financial efficiency over security can compromise critical infrastructure serving government and commercial clients.Read more →
Gizmodo...Go Inside the Worlds of Andrew Stanton’s Sweeping New Sci-Fi Film (Exclusive)Andrew Stanton's new live-action film 'In the Blink of an Eye' is a sci-fi drama spanning three interconnected timelines—45,000 years in the past, the present day, and 400 years in the future—that explores the beauty and fragility of human life across generations. The narrative weaves together stories of Neanderthals, an anthropologist studying ancient remains, and a deep space voyage, with interconnections that resolve unexpectedly and hopefully. The film premieres on Hulu on February 27.Read more →
The Verge...If Big Tech cared about fighting AI slop, it wouldn’t be drowning us in itMajor tech companies including Meta, Google, and OpenAI have backed the C2PA content authentication standard to address AI deepfakes and misinformation, yet continue to develop and promote AI tools that generate the problematic content they claim to combat. Despite industry support, C2PA has seen poor adoption among hardware makers and inconsistent implementation across platforms, limiting its effectiveness as a solution. The article argues this represents a fundamental conflict of interest, where AI providers use the standard as a smokescreen while profiting from AI-generated content spreading online.Read more →
Engadget...The creators of Dark Sky have a new weather appThe former Dark Sky development team has launched Acme Weather, an iPhone app designed to address forecast uncertainty by displaying a range of possible weather outcomes alongside confidence indicators. The app's 'Alternate Predictions' feature shows users multiple forecast scenarios, with converging or diverging lines indicating high or low confidence levels. Available for $25 annually after a two-week trial, with community reporting and comprehensive alerts included.Read more →
The Verge...Yep, it’s fast: Donut Lab’s solid-state battery gets its first test resultA Finnish startup has developed a battery pack capable of charging from 0 to 80 percent capacity in under 5 minutes, as validated by independent testing. This ultra-fast charging capability represents a significant advancement in battery technology for consumer applications.Read more →
The Verge...AOC’s 27-inch 1440p QD-OLED gaming monitor is down to $380Multiple technology retailers are offering significant discounts on gaming and computing hardware, including an AOC QD-OLED gaming monitor at $379.99, PS5 games, Beats wireless earbuds at $59.99, and a high-end PC CPU bundled with DDR5 RAM. These deals provide substantial savings across gaming displays, console software, audio equipment, and processor components for tech enthusiasts.Read more →
Gizmodo...Heated Rivals Musk and Altman Disagree on One More Thing: Data Centers in SpaceSpaceX founder Elon Musk is pursuing orbital data centers to address capacity constraints, having filed an FCC application for a constellation of Starlinks to house these facilities. OpenAI CEO Sam Altman has expressed skepticism about near-term viability, citing prohibitive launch costs and technical challenges such as repairing computer chips in space. While Altman acknowledges orbital data centers could eventually be viable, he believes the technology will not reach meaningful scale within the current decade.Read more →
Gizmodo...After ‘Cosmic Orange’ This Could Be the iPhone 18 Pro’s Must-Have ColorApple's Cosmic Orange iPhone 17 Pro has resonated strongly with consumers, particularly in China where the color evokes luxury associations with Hermès. According to Bloomberg reporting, Apple is testing a deep red color for the iPhone 18 Pro expected to launch in fall 2026, potentially chosen to appeal to Chinese market preferences. The decision reflects Apple's strategic focus on color choices that resonate with its major markets.Read more →
CNET...Is It Snowing Where You Are? I Hope You Have a Roof RakeRoof rakes offer a simple, affordable solution ($50-$200) to prevent ice dams and water damage during winter snowfall. By clearing snow from roof eaves after each storm, homeowners can avoid costly damage and the need for expensive heating systems.Read more →
Gizmodo...‘A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms’ Ends With a Tease of Adventures to ComeThe season finale follows Dunk as he declines offers from nobles and instead commits to mentoring young Egg as his squire, embarking on a journey that breaks from castle life and Targaryen dysfunction. The episode explores themes of mentorship, redemption, and the moral weight of consequences following the tournament's tragic conclusion. The finale establishes the foundation for season two while symbolically passing the torch from Ser Arlan to Dunk as the guiding influence in Egg's life.Read more →
The Verge...Hank Green will gladly take billionaire money for education videosEducational media company Complexly has restructured as a nonprofit, with cofounders Hank and John Green relinquishing ownership to prioritize educational impact over profit maximization. The move unlocks new funding sources through grants and donations, providing insulation from platform algorithm pressures while maintaining free educational content at scale. The decision reflects tensions between quality educational content creation and competition from algorithmic platforms and AI-generated alternatives.Read more →
TechCrunch...5 days left to lock in the lowest TechCrunch Disrupt 2026 ticket ratesTechCrunch Disrupt 2026 is offering early-bird ticket discounts up to $680 until February 27, with the conference scheduled for October 13-15 in San Francisco. The event brings together 10,000+ founders, investors, and tech leaders for networking, startup pitch competitions with $100,000 in equity-free funding, and insights from industry leaders.Read more →
The Verge...Inside Microsoft’s big Xbox leadership shake-upPhil Spencer retired as Microsoft Gaming CEO and was unexpectedly replaced by Asha Sharma, a former AI executive, rather than the anticipated successor Sarah Bond. The promotion signals Microsoft's strategic pivot away from Bond's unsuccessful "Xbox everywhere" initiative, which prioritized mobile and cloud gaming over console hardware, toward revitalizing the core Xbox brand. Sharma's appointment marks a significant reset amid three years of declining Xbox hardware revenue and represents Microsoft's attempt to rebuild Xbox's competitiveness in the gaming market.Read more →
TechCrunch...How AI agents could destroy the economyCitrini Research published a scenario describing how agentic AI could trigger economic collapse through a negative feedback loop: AI improvements reduce workforce demand, displaced workers spend less, margin pressure accelerates AI investment, and the cycle repeats. The analysis projects unemployment doubling and stock market decline exceeding a third within two years, shifting focus from AI misalignment risks to the gradual unraveling of the economy through widespread AI agent adoption.Read more →
Engadget...Anker's new 45W Nano charger with smart display is already $10 offAnker unveiled a refreshed 45W Nano Charger at CES 2026 featuring a smart display that monitors real-time power flow, temperature, and charging status while automatically optimizing metrics for extended battery lifespan. The compact charger with dual folding prongs supports multiple device types including iPhones, Apple Watches, AirPods, and Samsung devices, and is currently available for $30 for Prime members.Read more →
CNET...Half of US Adults Who Use Social Media Want Better Labels on AI Posts, CNET FindsA CNET survey shows that 94% of US adults encounter AI-generated content on social media, but only 44% can confidently distinguish real from fake images and videos. The widespread 'AI slop' has generated significant public frustration, with respondents calling for solutions like better content labeling (51%), outright bans (21%), or enhanced filtering tools. Only 11% find AI-generated content useful, indicating growing demand for platforms to address the proliferation of low-quality synthetic media.Read more →
TechCrunch...Defense Secretary summons Anthropic’s Amodei over military use of ClaudeDefense Secretary Pete Hegseth is pressuring Anthropic CEO Dario Amodei to allow military use of Claude for mass surveillance and autonomous weapons, threatening to declare the company a 'supply chain risk' if it refuses. Such a designation would void Anthropic's $200 million DOD contract and force Pentagon partners to drop Claude. The confrontation underscores tensions between government demands for unrestricted AI military applications and Anthropic's ethical guardrails.Read more →
Engadget...Elevation Lab's AirTag 10-year extended battery case is only $16 right nowElevation Lab's extended battery case for AirTags is now 30 percent off at $16, extending the tracker's battery life from roughly two years to up to 10 years with AA batteries while providing IP69 waterproof protection and a stealthy design. The case is best suited for long-term tracking of luggage and backpacks, though it sacrifices portability and audio clarity due to its bulk and muffled sound output.Read more →
CNET...I Tried Every Popular Frozen Fry Brand. This $3 Bag Blows Them Out of the WaterA taste test comparison of six frozen french fry brands reveals that budget-friendly options can deliver superior quality compared to expensive brands. The article demonstrates that air fryers are the optimal cooking method, providing consistent texture and efficiency for home preparation. Key tips include avoiding overcrowding, not adding oil, and adjusting seasoning and cooking times based on fry size.Read more →
Gizmodo...Russell T Davies Has Planned Out Multiple Versions of the Return of ‘Doctor Who’Multiple streaming platforms are developing major entertainment projects including Charlie's Angels reboot, The Mist remake, and Netflix's I Am Frankelda stop-motion film. Apple TV+ is expanding the Monarch universe with a Cold War spy thriller spinoff set in the 1980s, while several beloved series including Doctor Who and The Mayfair Witches have updates on production and content direction.Read more →
The Verge...Nothing couldn’t wait to show off the Phone 4AAfter teasing the upcoming launch of its midrange Phone 4A last week, Nothing has now revealed what the rear of the device looks like. An official render of the Phone 4A shared on X shows off the brand's familiar transparent-industrial stylings, alongside a new "Glyph Bar" lighting feature located to the right of the triple […]Read more →
CNET...The Ultimate Guide to Seeing the Total Lunar Eclipse This MarchA total lunar eclipse will occur on March 3, 2026, visible across North America with the moon reaching maximum eclipse at 6:33 a.m. ET and displaying a blood-red appearance. This is the final eclipse in a trio that began in 2025, and observers won't have another opportunity to see a total lunar eclipse until December 31, 2028.Read more →
Gizmodo...Timothée Chalamet Talks Going All Out for ‘Dune: Part Three’Timothée Chalamet is intensifying his commitment to his role as Paul Atreides in Dune: Part Three, drawing inspiration from acclaimed actors like Heath Ledger and Marlon Brando to bring greater theatrical depth to the character. The film marks Chalamet's final performance as Paul, prompting a more ambitious and darker approach under director Denis Villeneuve's direction. The third installment is scheduled for theatrical release on December 18.Read more →
The Verge...Uber launches robotaxi support project to aid AV partnersUber launched Uber Autonomous Solutions to provide infrastructure, fleet management, and operational support to third-party autonomous vehicle partners like Wayve and WeRide. The initiative enables less-capitalized AV developers to access training data, mapping assistance, and fleet intelligence tools to accelerate commercialization of robotaxis globally.Read more →
Engadget...Falcon Northwest FragBox review: A compact gaming rig that does everything rightThe Fragbox is a compact small form factor gaming PC from Falcon Northwest that delivers extreme performance, starting at $3,997. It achieves exceptional 4K gaming on large home theater displays—reaching 120 fps on demanding titles like Mafia: The Old Country with DLSS enabled—while offering superior upgradeability in its dense chassis. However, Windows usability challenges for home theater integration limit its practicality compared to console alternatives.Read more →
CNET...Struggling in Pokemon Legends: Z-A? Here's How to Catch Strong Dragon Pokemon EarlyThis guide provides strategies for capturing powerful dragon-type Pokemon in Pokemon Legends: Z-A, detailing specific locations and evolution paths to strengthen player teams for the game's real-time battle system. Players can optimize their rosters by pursuing pseudo-legendary dragons like Dragonite, Garchomp, and Goodra to compete effectively in the game's storyline and online battles.Read more →
Gizmodo...Logitech G Pro X2 Superstrike Review: A ‘Fake Click’ Could Change Gaming Mice ForeverLogitech's $180 G Pro X2 Superstrike introduces magnetic field-based click sensors with customizable haptics as an alternative to traditional mechanical and optical mouse switches. The innovation enables faster click rates and improved customization for competitive gaming, delivering measurable performance improvements in fast-paced shooters, though individual skill remains the primary factor in gaming success.Read more →
Gizmodo...Live Updates From Samsung Galaxy Unpacked 2026 🔴Samsung's Galaxy S26 Ultra will feature a 'Privacy Display' that darkens the screen when viewed from angles to prevent unauthorized viewing of sensitive content and notifications. The new S26 series will be largely iterative upgrades to the S25 line, alongside the debut of Galaxy Buds 4 Pro at the upcoming Unpacked event.Read more →
CNET...Phone-Maker Honor Will Unveil Its First Humanoid Robot Next WeekHonor will unveil its first humanoid service robot at Mobile World Congress on March 1, alongside its Robot Phone prototype. The move capitalizes on the humanoid robotics market's explosive 508% year-on-year growth in 2025, where Chinese companies currently lead. Honor's entry gives the phone-maker early-mover advantage in an increasingly competitive robotics sector driven by AI advances.Read more →
CNET...Don't Buy the iPhone 16E Right Now Because the iPhone 17E Is 'Due Imminently'The article advises consumers to wait for the upcoming iPhone 17E rather than purchasing the current iPhone 16E, as the newer model may offer improved features including dual cameras and better specifications. While the iPhone 16E serves as a budget option at $600, Apple's manufacturing efficiency could allow the iPhone 17E to share more premium components with the flagship iPhone 17 at a similar price point.Read more →
CNET...iPhone 17 vs. iPhone 16: Which Should You Buy?The iPhone 17 launches at $829 with significant upgrades over the iPhone 16, including a 120Hz display, 48MP ultra-wide camera, more powerful A19 processor, and improved 30-hour battery life. Base storage doubles from 128GB to 256GB at the same launch price. As the iPhone 16 receives a $100 discount, buyers must weigh new flagship features against cost savings.Read more →
Gizmodo...‘Daredevil: Born Again’ Showrunner Wishes the Show Wasn’t So TimelyDaredevil: Born Again season 2 reflects real-world political crises and government corruption, with showrunner Dario Scardapane intentionally drawing parallels between the MCU's storylines and contemporary American events. The season will conclude Mayor Fisk's mayoral arc before the show returns to street-level storytelling in season 3, moving away from political themes. The show aims to balance its social commentary with superhero archetypes and mythological elements.Read more →
CNET...Apple TV: 26 of the Best TV Shows You're Probably Not WatchingApple TV+ operates a library of quality television content that extends far beyond its well-known flagship shows, but the platform's reliance on organic discovery and minimal marketing leaves many series unknown to viewers. This approach creates a best-kept-secret positioning in the streaming industry, though it can challenge user discoverability.Read more →
CNET...Don't Buy a Refurbished or Used Windows 10 ComputerMicrosoft has ended support for Windows 10, eliminating security patches and leaving systems vulnerable to attacks that could compromise personal and financial information. Most computers from the past five years can upgrade to Windows 11 for free, making Windows 10 purchases inadvisable unless compatibility is verified beforehand. Purchasing unsupported systems poses significant security risks and buyers should check compatibility specifications or opt for Windows 11 models instead.Read more →
The Verge...Taara Beam provides 25Gbps connectivity over invisible beams of lightTaara, an Alphabet spinout, launched Taara Beam to provide 25Gbps city-wide connectivity using light-based technology with fiber-matching speeds and ultra-low latency below 100 microseconds. The rapidly deployable solution targets enterprise and telecom infrastructure, eliminating the need for spectrum licensing or cable trenching. Key applications include offloading data from electric vehicles and enabling low-latency communication networks for urban traffic systems.Read more →
The Verge...How many AIs does it take to read a PDF?AI companies are increasingly developing specialized machine learning models to solve the longstanding challenge of parsing PDFs, driven by recognition that PDFs contain vast quantities of high-quality training data for language models. Companies like Reducto use segmentation and multi-model approaches to extract complex information from documents, though edge cases and formatting variations still prevent fully reliable solutions.Read more →
CNET...Best Home Security Systems for Renters in 2026: No Screws, No HassleThis CNET review evaluates renter-friendly home security systems designed with non-permanent installation methods such as adhesive sensors and wireless connectivity to protect rental properties without landlord conflict. The article compares five affordable solutions ranging from $30 to $150, with the Arlo Dual Sensor system recommended as the best overall option for its versatility, ease of setup, and optional subscription model. These systems address a significant gap in rental security by providing portable, damage-free alternatives to traditional wired systems that renters can take with them when relocating.Read more →
CNET...Upgrade Your Morning Smoothie With This $50 NutribulletThe personal Nutribullet blender is discounted to $50 on Amazon, a 31% reduction to near its lowest price point. Featuring a 600-watt motor, 24-ounce capacity, and simple push-and-twist operation, it enables quick smoothie preparation with dishwasher-safe components and convenient portability. This deal provides an affordable option for consumers seeking to support health and wellness goals through easy on-the-go beverage preparation.Read more →
Engadget...The best cheap Windows laptops for 2026With Windows 10 support ending, consumers are upgrading to Windows 11 laptops, driving demand for affordable entry-level machines. This guide provides recommendations for budget-friendly laptops that balance performance and battery life for everyday tasks like browsing, document editing, and streaming video. Key specifications to prioritize include Intel Core i3 or AMD Ryzen 3 processors, 8GB RAM, 128GB SSD storage, and 1080p displays, while AI features like Copilot+ require more expensive machines starting around $700.Read more →
TechCrunch...Wispr Flow launches an Android app for AI-powered dictationWispr Flow, an AI-powered dictation startup, has launched its Android app with a floating bubble interface and infrastructure rewrite that improves dictation speed by 30%. The app supports over 100 languages including a newly developed Hinglish model for mixed Hindi-English speakers in India, establishing it as one of the few advanced voice-to-text solutions available on Android.Read more →
Engadget...The best earbuds for Android devices in 2026This comprehensive guide helps Android users select wireless earbuds by prioritizing key features like sound quality, battery life, noise cancellation, and Android-specific functionality such as dedicated apps and Fast Pair compatibility. The article details testing methodologies across comfort, sound profiles, microphone quality, and connectivity while evaluating diverse options ranging from budget-friendly to premium models. Recommendations have been updated through February 2026 to reflect new releases and category-leading options.Read more →
CNET...Today's NYT Connections: Sports Edition Hints and Answers for Feb. 23, #518This article provides hints and answers for the Connections: Sports Edition word puzzle published by The Athletic, guiding players through categories themed around sports wordplay and Space Jam references. The guide reveals solutions for each difficulty level, with the purple category requiring knowledge of NFL teams whose first letters have been changed.Read more →
Gizmodo...A Recent 3D Printing Breakthrough Brings Us One Step Closer to You Downloading a CarMIT researchers have developed a 3D printer with multiple extruders that produces fully functioning linear motors in three hours with material costs around $0.50, a significant reduction from conventional manufacturing timelines of weeks to months. This breakthrough has substantial implications for manufacturing and supply chains, as factories could potentially print complex replacement parts on demand rather than relying on global supply chains. The development represents a major step toward eventually enabling the 3D printing of sophisticated mechanical systems.Read more →
Engadget...NASA's crewed Artemis II launch gets pushed back again, this time due to a helium issueNASA postponed the Artemis II lunar mission's March launch after discovering a helium flow malfunction in the Space Launch System rocket's upper stage. The rocket will be transported back to the Vehicle Assembly Building for repairs, with the April launch window still under consideration pending the repair outcome. The four-member international astronaut crew has exited quarantine as engineers work to resolve the technical issue.Read more →
TechCrunch...Apple might take a new approach to announcing its next productsApple is planning a departure from its traditional keynote format, organizing a three-day announcement flurry culminating in a March 4 hands-on experience across New York, London, and Shanghai. The company is expected to unveil at least five new products including a low-cost MacBook, iPhone 17e, M4 iPad Air, entry-level iPad, and upgraded MacBook models, significantly expanding its product lineup.Read more →
TechCrunch...Can the creator economy stay afloat in a flood of AI slop?The creator economy is undergoing significant transformation as mega-creators like MrBeast diversify beyond advertising into product lines, while generative AI video tools like ByteDance's Seedance 2.0 promise to democratize content creation. These parallel developments signal a shifting landscape where authenticity and established creator brands become increasingly valuable amid concerns about market saturation and content flooding.Read more →
The Verge...Samsung is adding Perplexity to Galaxy AIIn addition to summoning Bixby or Gemini, Galaxy S26 users will be able to call on Perplexity by saying "hey, Plex." The integration of Perplexity into Galaxy AI is just one element of the company's embrace of a "multi-agent ecosystem." Often, people will use different AI agents for different tasks, depending on where their strengths […]Read more →
Gizmodo...Sam Altman: Know What Else Used a Lot of Energy? Human CivilizationAt India's AI Impact Summit, OpenAI CEO Sam Altman controversially defended AI's environmental impact by comparing data center energy consumption to human civilization development, dismissing water consumption claims as false. The remarks sparked social media backlash amid growing criticism of the AI industry's lack of transparency regarding data center resource consumption and regulatory oversight.Read more →
The Verge...You need to listen to Laurie Spiegel’s masterpiece of early ambient musicI recently had the pleasure of interviewing Laurie Spiegel for the site. As preparation for the interview, I spent a lot of time over the last couple of weeks revisiting Spiegel's records, most notably The Expanding Universe, her 1980 masterpiece that blends synth experimentalism with early examples of what would eventually be called ambient music, […]Read more →
Engadget...Colorado is working on a bill that would make it illegal to 3D print firearms and gun partsColorado's House Judiciary Committee approved HB26-1144 to prohibit manufacturing firearms and components using 3D printers or similar technology. This legislation aims to reduce untraceable 'ghost guns' found at crime scenes and strengthen law enforcement's ability to track suspects, while exempting federally licensed firearm manufacturers.Read more →
Gizmodo...‘The Mummy Returns’ To Theaters in MarchUniversal is re-releasing The Mummy Returns in theaters beginning March 27 to celebrate its 25th anniversary, with tickets already available. The theatrical re-release maintains audience engagement with the franchise ahead of the April premiere of a new Mummy film, capitalizing on nostalgia for the original trilogy that marked Dwayne Johnson's Hollywood debut.Read more →
TechCrunch...Bill Gurley says that right now, the worst thing you can do for your career is play it safeBill Gurley, a prominent venture capitalist, is launching a book and foundation to encourage passion-driven careers as a competitive strategy amid AI workforce disruption, finding that 60% of people regret not exploring alternative paths. Through the Running Down a Dream Foundation, he will award $5,000 annual grants to help people make career transitions they've long considered. Gurley argues that in an AI-driven economy, building uniquely differentiated career paths through passion is more valuable than following traditional recruitment routes.Read more →
Engadget...Samsung is adding Perplexity to Galaxy AI for its upcoming S26 seriesSamsung is integrating Perplexity AI as part of an expanded Galaxy AI platform that supports multiple AI agents across its flagship devices. The Perplexity agent will be accessible through Samsung's native apps (Notes, Clock, Gallery, Reminder, Calendar) and select third-party applications, activated via the "Hey Plex" wake phrase. This expansion aims to give users more choice and flexibility in AI-powered task completion while positioning Galaxy AI as a unified orchestrator of different AI services.Read more →
Gizmodo...Trump’s FCC Chair Wants Networks to Run Nationalistic Content and Pledge Loyalty for America’s Big BdayFCC Chair Brendan Carr launched an initiative calling on broadcasters to provide patriotic programming for America's 250th anniversary, including civic education content, historical announcements, and American classical music. The effort reflects Carr's pattern of using his FCC position to advance administration priorities, though the broadcast pledge is described as voluntary.Read more →
Gizmodo...Dwayne McDuffie Would’ve Been 64 This WeekendThe article commemorates Dwayne McDuffie on what would have been his 64th birthday, remembering his groundbreaking contributions to comics and animation, including co-founding Milestone Media and creating the character Static. Despite his lasting cultural impact and legacy, ongoing rights disputes between his estate and other Milestone founders have complicated efforts to fully realize Static's potential as an A-list superhero franchise. The piece reflects on McDuffie's loss in 2011 as part of a broader pattern of talented creators dying before achieving full recognition for their work.Read more →
CNET...What Happened in Hulu's 'Paradise'? Here's a Recap Before Season 2 PremieresEmmy-nominated drama Paradise returns for season 2 on Hulu and Disney Plus, premiering February 23, with Sterling K. Brown reprising his role as Xavier Collins investigating a conspiracy in an underground bunker society. The season adds new cast members including Shailene Woodley and continues Xavier's search for survivors on the surface following the death of former President Cal Bradford.Read more →
Engadget...Apple is reportedly considering red as the next premium color for its iPhonesApple is testing red as the flagship color for upcoming iPhone Pro models, potentially launching alongside purple and brown options. The move appears designed to capitalize on red's cultural significance and premium appeal in Chinese markets, following the success of the Cosmic Orange variant in boosting sales.Read more →
TechCrunch...Quantonation’s double-sized second fund shows quantum still has believersQuantonation Ventures closed its €220 million second fund, double the size of its first, signaling robust investor confidence in quantum computing despite the lack of industrial-scale applications. The quantum sector is maturing with supporting technologies and ecosystem development, attracting major institutional investors including Toshiba and the European Investment Fund. This expansion demonstrates that investors view quantum computing as a multifaceted opportunity spanning software, industrial applications, and adjacent physics technologies beyond quantum chips alone.Read more →
Engadget...Apple's first event of the year will reportedly bring at least five products over a 'three-day blitz'Apple plans to announce at least five new products between March 2-4, including a low-cost MacBook, iPhone 17e, iPad Air with M4 chip, and upgraded MacBook Pro and Air models. The announcements represent significant hardware upgrades across Apple's computing and mobile device lineup with enhanced processors including M4, M5, and M5 Pro/Max chips.Read more →
TechCrunch...Trump says Netflix will face ‘consequences’ if it doesn’t fire board member Susan RicePresident Trump has publicly demanded Netflix fire board member Susan Rice, citing her criticism of corporations accommodating his administration, and threatened unspecified consequences if the company refuses. The threat carries significance as Netflix awaits federal regulatory approval for its pending Warner Bros. merger, which Trump's administration oversees.Read more →
Gizmodo...You Have to Watch This ‘Mortal Kombat’ Themed Olympics PerformanceGeorgian figure skaters performed a Mortal Kombat-themed routine at the Winter Olympics, with competitors dressed as Sub-Zero and Kitana while incorporating iconic game elements, sound effects, and attack animations. The creative performance earned the pair a silver medal and exemplifies the enduring cultural legacy and mainstream influence of the gaming franchise.Read more →
TechCrunch...TechCrunch Mobility: Waymo makes its defenseWaymo disclosed during Senate testimony that it employs approximately 70 remote assistance workers based in Arizona, Michigan, and the Philippines to support its autonomous vehicle operations, prompting criticism from Sen. Ed Markey over using overseas workers without U.S. driver's licenses. The company clarified these agents respond to specific information requests from the self-driving system rather than remotely controlling vehicles, with U.S.-based Event Response Teams handling complex emergency tasks. The revelation highlights ongoing concerns about transparency and regulatory oversight in autonomous vehicle operations.Read more →
TechCrunch...All the important news from the ongoing India AI Impact SummitIndia hosted a major AI Impact Summit attracting executives from OpenAI, Anthropic, Nvidia, Microsoft, Google, and other tech giants to boost AI investment in the country. The event announced over $1 billion in government venture funding, major international partnerships including Anthropic opening its Bengaluru office and OpenAI expanding to Mumbai, and India's ambitious goal to attract $200 billion in AI infrastructure investment over the next two years.Read more →
CNET...Astronauts Will Be Allowed to Use the Latest Smartphones During Space MissionsNASA has approved astronauts to bring modern smartphones on space missions starting with SpaceX Crew-12 and Artemis II missions, with iPhones being the first fully qualified for extended use in orbit. This upgrade replaces legacy camera equipment from 2016, enabling crew members to capture and share high-quality images and video from space.Read more →
CNET...Trump Phone Reportedly Costs More, Looks Different, Isn't Made in AmericaTrump Mobile revealed a redesigned T1 smartphone prototype to The Verge with significant specification changes including a larger waterfall display and modified camera system compared to its original announcement. The phone has been repeatedly delayed as domestic manufacturing proved infeasible, shifting production overseas with prices increasing beyond the $499 pre-order price. Despite missing multiple 2025 launch dates, the company is targeting a March 2026 release.Read more →
TechCrunch...China’s brain-computer interface industry is racing aheadChina's brain-computer interface (BCI) industry is rapidly scaling from research to commercialization, with multiple startups developing both implantable and noninvasive BCIs backed by strong government policy support and substantial investment. Key drivers include favorable regulations, large patient populations enabling faster clinical trials, mature manufacturing infrastructure, and strategic funding, positioning Chinese companies to challenge U.S. leaders like Neuralink. The market is projected to exceed $530 million in 2025 and reach 120 billion yuan by 2040.Read more →
The Verge...Trump says Netflix will ‘pay the consequences’ if it doesn’t fire Susan RiceDonald Trump threatened that there would be "consequences" for Netflix if it didn't fire board member Susan Rice. Rice served in both the Obama and Biden administrations, and recently appeared on Preet Bharara's podcast, where she said corporations that "take a knee to Trump" are going to be "caught with more than their pants down. […]Read more →
Gizmodo...‘Face/Off 2’ Director Adam Wingard is Now/GoneDirector Adam Wingard has exited the Face/Off 2 sequel, disrupting the film's production plans. The sequel was planned to feature a complex multi-character face-swapping storyline involving stars Nicholas Cage and John Travolta alongside their on-screen children. New creative leadership will be needed to move the project forward.Read more →
CNET...'Bridgerton' Season 4, Part 2: Release Date and Time on NetflixBridgerton season 4 shifts focus to Benedict Bridgerton's romance with Sophie Baek in a two-part release structure. The first four episodes are available now, with the remaining four episodes releasing on Netflix on February 26, 2026.Read more →
TechCrunch...6 days left to lock in the lowest TechCrunch Disrupt 2026 ratesTechCrunch Disrupt 2026 is a major tech conference occurring October 13-15 in San Francisco, gathering 10,000 founders, investors, and innovators for networking and business development. Early bird pricing offering up to $680 in savings ends February 27, providing the lowest ticket prices of the year. The event features 300+ exhibiting startups, a $100,000 pitch competition, and keynotes from influential figures including WordPress co-founder Matt Mullenweg, GM CEO Mary Barra, and legendary VC Vinod Khosla.Read more →
CNET...I 3D Printed Dyson Vacuum Tools and Other Cool Home AccessoriesA detailed guide showcasing practical consumer 3D printing applications, from custom tool holders and storage solutions to personalized accessories like phone mounts and cookie cutters. The article demonstrates how modern 3D printers, such as the affordable Bambu Labs A1, have made it accessible for users to manufacture custom tools and solve everyday problems that commercial manufacturers don't address. It highlights the growing role of open-source standards and design tools in enabling personalized manufacturing at home.Read more →
The Verge...This magazine plays Tetris — here’s howRed Bull created a playable Tetris game embedded in a magazine cover using flexible circuits, 180 RGB LEDs, and capacitive touch sensors designed by engineer Kevin Bates. The durable gaming device demonstrates how existing accessible technologies can be reimagined for portable gaming while maintaining functionality when flexed. Only 150 copies were produced and distributed to Tetris competitors, influencers, and media.Read more →
CNET...Premier League Soccer 2026: Watch Tottenham vs. Arsenal LiveTottenham faces Arsenal in a Premier League match on February 22, 2026, with new interim manager Igor Tudor seeking a crucial win to avoid relegation. Arsenal looks to bounce back after dropping points against Wolves in a high-stakes title race clash.Read more →
CNET...The Best Smart Scales of 2026 for Measuring Body Fat, Muscle Mass and MoreCNET reviews six leading smart scales, highlighting their unique strengths such as app integration, accuracy, affordability, and display quality to help consumers select based on individual needs. While smart scales provide useful body composition tracking over time, the review emphasizes they offer estimations rather than clinical-grade accuracy and should complement, not replace, professional health assessments.Read more →
CNET...Give Your Phone Photos a Warm, Dreamy Analog Film Look With These 3 TricksSmartphone users can achieve an authentic vintage film aesthetic using a combination of physical filters, raw shooting modes, and free editing apps like Google Snapseed, eliminating the need for expensive analog cameras. The technique focuses on reducing digital oversharpening and adding film grain to recreate the warm tones characteristic of analog film stocks. This democratizes retro photography by making it accessible to casual users through readily available smartphone tools and editing software.Read more →
CNET...Apple Watch vs. Oura Ring: After Months of Testing, I've Finally Made My ChoiceThe Oura Ring and Apple Watch are complementary rather than competing wearables: the former excels at passive long-term health monitoring and recovery detection, while the latter dominates active fitness tracking and daily connectivity. The choice depends on individual priorities—the Oura Ring suits those focused on identifying health trends and illness, while the Apple Watch better serves fitness enthusiasts and always-connected users. Together they highlight how different wearable form factors address distinct health and lifestyle needs.Read more →
Gizmodo...Webb Just Spent 17 Hours Staring at Uranus—and Found Its Auroras Are Even Weirder Than We ThoughtThe James Webb Space Telescope conducted an unprecedented 17-hour observation of Uranus, creating the first three-dimensional map of the planet's upper atmosphere. The data revealed how Uranus's unusual and tilted magnetic field influences the formation of auroras, with two bright auroral bands detected near the magnetic poles. These findings advance understanding of ice giants' atmospheric energy dynamics, with implications for characterizing giant planets beyond our solar system.Read more →
The Verge...America desperately needs new privacy lawsCongress has repeatedly failed to update privacy laws to keep pace with modern digital surveillance by governments and corporations, leaving Americans vulnerable to facial recognition abuse, algorithmic pricing exploitation, and unchecked data collection. While fragmented state and international regulations like GDPR provide limited protection, privacy advocates call for federal solutions including a dedicated Data Protection Agency and private rights of action to address emerging threats from new technologies like AI and augmented reality.Read more →
The Verge...Vibe camera shootout: Camp Snap Pro vs. Flashback One35 V2The Camp Snap Pro ($99) and Flashback One35 V2 ($119) are retro-styled digital cameras designed to replicate disposable film cameras with digital convenience. The Camp Snap Pro wins with sharper images, easier operation, and better customization, while the Flashback's strict disposable-camera simulation creates practical limitations. Both tap into a growing consumer trend favoring lo-fi camera aesthetics over smartphone photography.Read more →
Engadget...How to send a message via satellite on iPhoneApple's satellite messaging feature allows iPhone users to send and receive text messages when cellular and Wi-Fi networks are unavailable, expanding beyond the original emergency services functionality. Available on iPhone 14 and later models with iOS 18 or higher in select regions including the United States and Canada, the feature enables communication from remote locations such as hiking trails and rural areas with clear sky visibility. While not designed for continuous conversations or time-sensitive communication, satellite messaging provides a backup communication option for travelers and outdoor enthusiasts in areas without traditional network coverage.Read more →
CNET...Lenovo Idea Tab Pro Tablet Review: It Gets the Job DoneThe Lenovo IdeaTab Pro is a budget-friendly tablet that delivers adequate performance for everyday productivity and media consumption, though it lacks standout features. Featuring a MediaTek Dimensity 8300 processor, sharp display, and strong battery life, it offers solid value when discounted below $300, but its $389+ MSRP makes it less compelling against competing options. The tablet includes a stylus and expandable microSD storage, positioning it as a practical mid-range choice for users prioritizing affordability.Read more →
CNET...Seeing More iPhone Battery Life? Adaptive Power in iOS 26 Could Be the BoostiOS 26 introduces Adaptive Power, an AI-driven feature that intelligently extends battery life on compatible iPhone models by automatically adjusting performance based on usage patterns. The feature uses on-device intelligence to predict when extra battery power is needed and makes performance adjustments during power-intensive activities like video recording, photo editing, and gaming. This intelligent optimization operates seamlessly in the background and could significantly impact phone longevity, as battery life is a primary driver of smartphone upgrades.Read more →
Engadget...2026 Olympics: How to watch the Winter Games Closing Ceremony todayThe 2026 Winter Olympics Closing Ceremony concludes this weekend in Verona, Italy, featuring performances by musician Gabry Ponte, actress Benedetta Porcaroli, and ballet dancer Roberto Bolle. The event airs live at 2:30 PM ET on NBC and Peacock on February 22, with an encore broadcast at 9 PM ET.Read more →
CNET...Premier League Soccer: Stream Nottingham Forest vs. Liverpool Live From AnywhereNottingham Forest hosts Liverpool on February 22 in a Premier League match, with new manager Vítor Pereira making his league debut as the relegation-threatened team faces Liverpool's push for Champions League qualification. The match will be available on Peacock Premium in the US and various regional streaming services worldwide.Read more →
TechCrunch...The 9,000-pound monster I don’t want to give backThe Cadillac Escalade IQL is a luxury electric SUV offering advanced technology and spaciousness but presenting real-world challenges in charging infrastructure compatibility and vehicle handling. The reviewer's initial skepticism about its massive size transformed during winter weather in Tahoe, where the vehicle's weight provided unexpected performance benefits, though charging limitations and software constraints remain significant drawbacks.Read more →
Gizmodo...Flock Cameras Have a People-Love-Smashing-Them ProblemFlock's AI-enhanced surveillance cameras are experiencing widespread, seemingly uncoordinated destruction across the United States, with incidents reported in multiple states including California, Oregon, Virginia, Connecticut, and Illinois. The vandalism reflects growing public resistance to the company's mass surveillance technology, compounded by a recent backlash that forced Amazon's Ring to cancel its partnership with Flock. This grassroots opposition demonstrates significant concerns about privacy and surveillance infrastructure, despite Flock receiving $275 million in funding from Andreessen Horowitz.Read more →
TechCrunch...Move over, Apple: Meet the alternative app stores available in the EU and elsewhereThe EU's Digital Markets Act enables alternative app stores on Apple devices, with developers paying a Core Technology Fee of €0.50 per install for notarized apps outside Apple's review process. Several alternative stores including AltStore PAL and Epic Games Store have launched in the EU, though complex regulations have already caused some platforms like Setapp Mobile to shut down.Read more →
Gizmodo...An Unbothered Jimmy Wales Calls Grokipedia a ‘Cartoon Imitation’ of WikipediaElon Musk's Grokipedia threatens Wikipedia's role as the internet's primary knowledge source, but co-founder Jimmy Wales argues that human-vetted content remains superior to AI systems prone to hallucination, citing studies showing AI error rates as high as 79%. The competition reflects a growing divide between shared-reality information platforms and AI-powered alternatives.Read more →
TechCrunch...Sam Altman would like remind you that humans use a lot of energy, tooOpenAI CEO Sam Altman dismissed concerns about ChatGPT's water usage as unfounded, stating the company no longer uses evaporative cooling in data centers. He acknowledged legitimate concerns about total AI energy consumption and advocated for accelerating the transition to nuclear, wind, and solar power to support growing AI usage worldwide.Read more →
Gizmodo...The ‘Mutant Mayhem 2’ Release Date Will Shift Until Morale ImprovesParamount has moved the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem 2 release date to August 13, 2027, marking the third scheduled date for the film after previous delays from October 2024 and September 2027. The studio is recommitting to the franchise with plans for licensed restaurants, a web series, and a live-action/animated film in 2028.Read more →
The Verge...Arturia’s FX Collection 6 adds two new effects and a $99 intro versionArturia released FX Collection 6, adding two new plugins (EFX Ambient and Pitch Shifter-910) to its effects suite now containing 39 total effects. The company introduced an affordable Intro version with six essential effects for $99, while the full Pro version remains at $499, offering significant value as the collection has expanded from 15 effects in 2020.Read more →
CNET...Today's NYT Connections: Sports Edition Hints and Answers for Feb. 22, #517The New York Times Connections: Sports Edition puzzle features a Winter Olympics-themed game with clues about future Olympic host cities, US women's hockey players, Olympic medal ceremony elements, and words that precede 'line'. The puzzle is available through The Athletic's app and website as part of the NYT Games portfolio.Read more →
Engadget...The Stop Killing Games campaign will set up NGOs in the EU and USThe Stop Killing Games campaign is expanding into formal NGOs in the EU and US to pursue long-term lobbying efforts against publishers who revoke access to purchased games. The organizations aim to codify consumer protections into law and establish systems for reporting publisher misconduct regarding game delisting.Read more →
TechCrunch...Wikipedia blacklists Archive.today after alleged DDoS attackWikipedia has removed all links to Archive.today, a web archiving service, citing security and reliability concerns including evidence that the site hijacks users' computers to run DDoS attacks and alters archived content. The decision affects over 695,000 existing links across the encyclopedia and marks a reversal of the site's 2016 reinstatement.Read more →
Gizmodo...The Legend That Defined the Music of ‘Final Fantasy’ Is Getting the Biography He DeservesViz Media announced an upcoming biography of composer Nobuo Uematsu titled 'Nobuo Uematsu: On the Record,' chronicling his career composing music for Square Enix games including Final Fantasy, Chrono Trigger, and others. The book by James Mielke will feature insights from Uematsu himself and collaborators like series creator Hironobu Sakaguchi, and will be the first English-language biography of the acclaimed composer.Read more →
Engadget...The US will send Tech Corps members to foreign countries in its latest push for AI dominanceThe Peace Corps launched Tech Corps, a new initiative recruiting STEM graduates and AI professionals to volunteer in foreign countries as part of the American AI Exports Program. Volunteers will work on AI solutions for agriculture, education, health, and economic development with assignments ranging from 12 to 27 months, receiving housing, healthcare, and stipends.Read more →
Gizmodo...Obedient Traders Respond to Claude Code Cybersecurity Plugin by Selling Cybersecurity StocksAnthropic released Claude Code Security to identify software vulnerabilities, causing cybersecurity stocks to decline as investors feared potential job displacement. However, the tool is designed to assist rather than replace human workers, and the market reaction reflects narrative-driven investment patterns rather than rational assessment of the technology's actual impact.Read more →
Engadget...A judge ruled Tesla still has to pay $243 million for a fatal crash involving AutopilotA US judge upheld a $243 million jury verdict against Tesla for a 2019 Autopilot crash that killed one person and injured another, rejecting the company's appeal and determining sufficient evidence supported the jury's decision. The incident involved a Model S driver using Autopilot while retrieving a phone, resulting in a collision with a parked vehicle.Read more →
TechCrunch...Microsoft’s new gaming CEO vows not to flood the ecosystem with ‘endless AI slop’Microsoft's gaming division is undergoing leadership changes with Phil Spencer departing and being replaced by Asha Sharma, signaling a strategic pivot toward integrating AI into gaming. The company plans to explore new business models combining AI and gaming, while maintaining that games remain human-created art and avoiding low-quality AI-generated content.Read more →
Gizmodo...The Original 151 Pokémon and Their History Are Up for AuctionGoldin Auctions is hosting a limited-time showcase of rare Pokémon memorabilia and collectibles to celebrate the franchise's 30th anniversary, featuring items such as a 1998 Japanese CoroCoro Promo Holo Illustrator Pikachu card valued at $280,000 and sealed vintage games. The auction includes trading cards, sealed games, anime merchandise, and magazines, with bidding open through March 8.Read more →
The Verge...Georgia says Elon Musk’s America PAC violated election lawFor all his bluster about voter fraud, Elon Musk has been one of the most flagrant flaunters of US election law. Now his America PAC has been slapped with a reprimand by the Georgia State Election Board for sending out pre-filled absentee ballot applications. State law prohibits anyone, other than an authorized relative, from sending […]Read more →
TechCrunch...Google VP warns that two types of AI startups may not surviveThe generative AI startup market is consolidating as investors lose patience with LLM wrappers and AI aggregators that merely add thin UI layers to existing models. Successful startups must develop deep competitive advantages through specialized vertical solutions or significant intellectual property, similar to how early cloud resellers were displaced when AWS built enterprise tools directly.Read more →
CNET...How to Recycle Your Old Laptops and Printers for FreeMajor retailers like Best Buy and Staples offer free electronic waste recycling for old computers and printers, making it convenient to dispose of outdated tech without landfill waste. Proper data security requires factory resetting devices before recycling, and trade-in programs at some retailers may provide store credits or discounts on new purchases.Read more →
Gizmodo...‘Tron: Ares’ Concept Art Reveals the Villain That Almost WasTron: Ares concept art reveals the filmmakers attempted to bring back Cillian Murphy as a version of Sark, a major villain from the original film, but Murphy declined to return. The role was ultimately reimagined for a new character, Julian Dillinger, who discovers the Sark disc in the film's post-credits scene, setting up a potential storyline for future sequels.Read more →
TechCrunch...OpenAI debated calling police about suspected Canadian shooter’s chatsAn 18-year-old accused of killing eight people in a Canadian mass shooting had previously used OpenAI's ChatGPT to discuss gun violence, prompting internal debate at the company about reporting to law enforcement. The incident highlights ongoing concerns about AI chatbots' potential role in mental health crises and dangerous ideation, with multiple lawsuits alleging certain systems have encouraged self-harm.Read more →
The Verge...Suspect in Tumbler Ridge school shooting described violent scenarios to ChatGPTOpenAI employees flagged a user's alarming ChatGPT conversations about gun violence months before a deadly mass shooting in British Columbia, but company leadership declined to alert authorities, concluding the posts did not pose credible imminent risk. On February 10th, the suspect killed nine people and injured 27 others in Canada's deadliest mass shooting since 2020 before dying by apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound. The decision has drawn scrutiny regarding OpenAI's content moderation protocols and responsibility to report potential threats to law enforcement.Read more →
Gizmodo...Sam Altman Says Companies Are ‘AI Washing’ LayoffsSam Altman acknowledged that companies are using AI as cover for layoffs that would happen anyway, a phenomenon he calls 'AI washing.' While some job displacement from AI is real, data shows AI-attributed layoffs represented less than 1% of total 2025 job losses, and most executives report no actual employment impact from AI in recent years.Read more →
TechCrunch...7 days until ticket prices rise for TechCrunch Disrupt 2026TechCrunch Disrupt 2026 is offering early bird pricing discounts of up to $680 on individual passes until February 27, with the event scheduled for October 13-15 at Moscone West in San Francisco. The three-day conference will gather 10,000 founders, investors, and operators for networking, investor access, and insights on emerging tech trends, featuring 300+ exhibiting startups and a Startup Battlefield 200 competition with a $100,000 prize.Read more →
CNET...Best Robot Vacuums: Our Latest Lab-Tested Robovacs Can Clean Just About AnythingThis CNET article reviews and ranks top robot vacuums including the Mova V50 Ultra Complete as the best overall, with detailed testing methodology covering sand pickup on different floor types, navigation coverage, and obstacle avoidance. The article provides buying guidance based on price, flooring type, and specific needs like pet hair removal.Read more →
CNET...I Asked Audiologists if My Earbuds Are Damaging My EarsEarbuds can pose hearing health risks including noise-induced hearing loss, tinnitus, and ear infections due to high volume, prolonged use, and physical irritation. Experts recommend following the 60/60 rule (60% volume for 60 minutes), using noise-canceling headphones, and taking regular listening breaks to prevent cumulative hearing damage.Read more →
Gizmodo...Watchdog Says FAA Lacks Resources to Properly Oversee United AirlinesA U.S. government audit found the FAA's oversight of United Airlines' maintenance practices is insufficient due to staffing shortages, with only four inspectors assigned to oversee more than 520 Boeing 737s. The report identified that the FAA has not fully implemented previous safety recommendations and inspectors lack adequate training, leading to heavier workloads and occasional virtual inspections instead of required on-site visits.Read more →
The Verge...The Pixel 10A and Soundcore Space One are just two of the best deals this weekGoogle announced the Pixel 10A smartphone launching March 5th with preorder availability and a $100 gift card, featuring the Tensor G4 chip and seven years of OS updates. The article also highlights weekend tech deals including discounts on power strips, gaming controllers, noise-canceling headphones, smart cameras, and robot vacuums.Read more →
CNET...MLS 2026 Kicks Off This Weekend With a New Setup on Apple TVMajor League Soccer's 2026 season begins February 21 with all matches available on Apple TV at no extra cost to subscribers, eliminating the need for a separate MLS Season Pass. The league introduces new programming features including Walmart Saturday Showdown with enhanced production and 'Shot on iPhone' coverage, plus expanded venue distribution through EverPass Media for bars and restaurants.Read more →
The Verge...Aerial_Knight’s DropShot captures the thrill of skydiving and makes it stylishI've always wanted to go skydiving. Aerial_Knight's DropShot, from indie developer Aerial_Knight, lets me live out that dream - at least in a safe, virtual kind of way. It also lets me shoot bullets from finger guns, wield laser skulls, and wear cool sunglasses while I'm falling through the air. So maybe it's better than […]Read more →
CNET...In a World Without BlackBerry, Physical Keyboards on Phones Are Making a ComebackPhysical phone keyboards are making a comeback in 2026 through both keyboard cases like Clicks and dedicated devices such as the Clicks Communicator and Unihertz Titan, driven by user demand for tactile input, nostalgia, and relief from touch-screen fatigue. Multiple companies are launching keyboard-equipped phones and accessories at CES 2026 and Mobile World Congress, ranging from $79 add-on cases to $499 dedicated devices, appealing to both older users missing BlackBerry-era phones and younger consumers interested in retro technology.Read more →
CNET...Galaxy S26 Rumors: Lots of Leaks About Samsung's New Phone SeriesSamsung has announced a Galaxy Unpacked event on February 25, 2026, where the Galaxy S26 series will be unveiled, featuring the S26, S26 Plus, and S26 Ultra models with upgraded cameras, next-generation AI capabilities, improved battery technology, and satellite communication features. The S26 Ultra will sport a redesigned form factor with a 200MP main camera, improved displays, and up to 25W wireless charging, while the base S26 and Plus models will receive camera and processing upgrades powered by Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 and Exynos 2600 chips.Read more →
The Verge...Stellantis is in a crisis of its own makingStellantis posted a massive $26.5 billion write-down due to failed EV investments, compounded by $16.7 billion in warranty and recall charges, reflecting broader challenges facing legacy automakers in the EV transition. The company is now pivoting back to profitable gas-powered trucks and SUVs while facing declining market share, poor customer loyalty, and underperforming brands, though emerging solid-state battery technology and extended-range electric vehicles offer potential recovery paths.Read more →
Engadget...How to know if an AirTag is tracking youApple's AirTag and Find My network include multiple safeguards to detect and prevent unwanted tracking, including automatic alerts on both iOS and Android devices when unknown trackers travel with you. Users can locate suspicious trackers using sound playback and precision finding features, disable them by removing the battery, and report them to authorities if misuse is suspected.Read more →
Engadget...Engadget review recap: Sony WF-1000XM6, ASUS Zenbook Duo and moreEngadget reviews several consumer tech products including Sony's WF-1000XM6 earbuds, ASUS Zenbook Duo laptop with dual screens, Kodak Charmera compact camera, and Mullvad VPN service. The reviews highlight mixed results, with Sony's earbuds falling short of competitors in ANC performance, the ASUS offering unique features despite screen typing concerns, the Kodak impressing despite image quality limitations, and Mullvad excelling at privacy with speed and streaming tradeoffs.Read more →
CNET...What's Coming to Disneyland and Disney World in 2026 and Beyond? Rides, Lands and MoreDisney is significantly expanding its theme park portfolio in 2026 and beyond, including new lands themed around villains, Pixar characters, and Avatar at both Disneyland and Disney World, along with new attractions like Coco and multiple Avengers rides at California Adventure. The company is also continuing its 70th anniversary celebration at Disneyland, introducing new ticket options, and launching additional cruise ships as part of a major multi-year growth initiative.Read more →
Gizmodo...A Veteran Blood Donor’s Guide to Not Freaking Out Your First TimeBlood donation is safe and critically needed as the U.S. faces a severe shortage, with roughly two-thirds of Americans eligible to donate yet only 3% doing so annually. Proper preparation including hydration, iron-rich foods, and sleep, combined with techniques like applied muscle tension to prevent fainting, can make the donation process straightforward and beneficial for recipients who need blood transfusions for medical conditions and emergencies.Read more →
CNET...Don't Buy the Galaxy S25 Ultra. Get the Galaxy S24 Ultra InsteadThe Galaxy S24 Ultra offers exceptional value at $950 new or $544 used, with minimal practical differences from the $1,300 S25 Ultra in real-world performance across cameras, battery life, and everyday tasks. While the S25 Ultra has a faster processor and slightly improved ultrawide camera, the improvements are marginal and unlikely to be noticed by most users, making the older generation a smart financial choice for upgrading to a high-end flagship device.Read more →
Engadget...An old-school Zelda-like, Skate Bums and other new indie games worth checking outThis article provides an overview of the indie gaming landscape, featuring multiple gaming showcases and upcoming releases in late February and spring 2026. It highlights notable indie titles including rhythm-based dungeon crawler GridBeat, roguelike deckbuilder Raccoin, co-op action RPG Surfpunk, and several newly released games like Under The Island and Demon Tides, while also promoting Steam Next Fest demos and upcoming releases across multiple platforms.Read more →
CNET...This Is the Only Smart Ring You Should Own to Keep Track of Your HealthThe Ultrahuman Ring Air, a $349 smart ring banned in the US following an Oura Ring lawsuit, offers comprehensive health tracking including sleep, stress, and workout monitoring without subscription fees. However, it suffers from workout tracking inaccuracies—particularly distance and pace calculations during running—and a cluttered app interface that makes data difficult to interpret.Read more →
CNET...Best Unlimited Data Plans for 2026CNET analyzes leading unlimited phone plans from AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon, comparing coverage, pricing, data speeds, and perks to help consumers choose the best option based on individual needs. T-Mobile's Essentials Saver offers the best value for single lines, while its Essentials plan provides better pricing for families with three or more lines, though trade-offs exist between cost, data speeds, and included features across all carriers.Read more →
The Verge...Anker’s powerful home theater on wheels is pure chaosThe Soundcore Nebula X1 Pro combines a 4K projector with a 400W multi-speaker audio system in a mobile unit, featuring 7.1.4 Dolby Atmos surround sound and a powerful subwoofer. Despite its excellent audio and video capabilities, the $4,999 device suffers from occasional Wi-Fi connectivity issues and is impractical to move despite its wheels.Read more →
CNET...Today's NYT Connections: Sports Edition Hints and Answers for Feb. 21, #516This article provides hints and answers for today's Connections: Sports Edition puzzle, a word-grouping game published by The Athletic. The puzzle features four themed categories: Maryland teams, Shaquille O'Neal nicknames, references to the film 'The Natural,' and sports involving a driver.Read more →
TechCrunch...India’s Sarvam launches Indus AI chat app as competition heats upSarvam, an Indian AI startup, launched its Indus chat app for web and mobile platforms, featuring its newly announced Sarvam 105B large language model tailored for local languages and Indian users. The launch positions Sarvam as a domestic alternative in India's rapidly growing generative AI market, where OpenAI and Anthropic have already established significant user bases, with the company also announcing partnerships with HMD and Bosch for AI applications in feature phones and automotive sectors.Read more →
Gizmodo...Former Sony Exec Says Obama Called Him After the Big Hack to Trash ‘The Interview’Former Sony Pictures CEO Michael Lynton's forthcoming memoir reveals that President Obama personally called him to criticize the decision to produce 'The Interview,' a Seth Rogen comedy about assassinating North Korean leader Kim Jong Il, which prompted a 2014 cyberattack attributed to North Korea. Lynton acknowledges the film decision was a mistake that resulted in significant consequences for Sony, including server damage, data theft, and damaged relationships with talent.Read more →
CNET...NASA Admits Fault in Starliner Test Flight, Classifies It as 'Type A' MishapNASA released an investigation report on the Boeing Starliner mission failure that stranded astronauts Williams and Wilmore for months, with the agency taking responsibility alongside Boeing for technical issues that remain partially unresolved. The incident has been classified as a Type A mishap, costing NASA $4.2 billion, with identified problems including thruster malfunctions and delayed failure declarations, though the root cause is still being investigated. NASA and Boeing are working to make Starliner launch-ready again, with an uncrewed resupply mission planned for April 2026.Read more →
