TechCrunch...DeleteMe acquires social media security tool Block PartyBlock Party, a social media harassment protection tool, has been acquired by DeleteMe, a personal data removal service that eliminates information from data brokers and people search sites. The acquisition consolidates both companies' products under one roof, allowing users to manage online safety across social media platforms and remove personal data through a unified solution. This integration addresses growing concerns about online privacy and safety following API pricing changes at X and represents a strategic expansion for DeleteMe.Read more →
Engadget...The Afeela 1 came too late and now is gone too soonThe Afeela 1 (PlayStation Car), a joint Sony-Honda electric vehicle project, has been officially canceled due to its six-year development cycle, shifting market sentiment against EVs, the failure of autonomous driving to materialize, and Honda's reduced commitment to American EV production. With its $100,000 price tag, modest design, and media-focused features, the vehicle struggled to compete against better-positioned alternatives like the Lucid Air. The cancellation serves as a cautionary tale about how rapidly changing market dynamics, geopolitical tensions, and policy shifts can undermine long-term automotive development strategies.Read more →
The Verge...Seiko resurrected a 44-year-old digital watch NASA astronauts wore to spaceSeiko has resurrected the Rotocall watch, a timekeeping device used by NASA astronauts including Sally Ride until 2002, featuring a unique octagonal bezel design that allows easy mode switching. The reissued version maintains the original's LCD display and functionality while incorporating slight design updates, priced at $550 compared to the original 1982 price of $125. The watch features multiple modes including time, timer, counter, stopwatch, and dual-time display, with a three-year battery life and water resistance exceeding 300 feet.Read more →
TechCrunch...Google launches Lyria 3 Pro music generation modelGoogle released Lyria 3 Pro, an advanced music generation model enabling users to create three-minute tracks with enhanced creative control and better structural understanding compared to its predecessor. The model is rolling out to Gemini (paid subscribers), Google Vids, and ProducerAI for consumers, while also becoming available to enterprise users through Vertex AI and the Gemini API. All generated tracks are marked with SynthID to indicate AI creation.Read more →
TechCrunch...Russia arrests alleged owner of cybercrime forum LeakBase, report saysRussian authorities arrested the alleged administrator of LeakBase, one of the world's largest cybercrime forums used for sharing hacking tools and stolen credentials. The arrest followed a coordinated international operation involving law enforcement from 14 countries that successfully shut down the platform and seized its database containing over 142,000 members and 215,000 messages. The takedown represents a significant effort to disrupt criminal infrastructure supporting large-scale cyber attacks and data breaches.Read more →
Engadget...Supreme Court rules ISPs aren't liable for subscribers' music piracyThe Supreme Court unanimously ruled that Cox Communications is not liable for copyright infringement committed by its subscribers, reversing a prior appeals court decision and overturning a $1 billion damages award. The court established that internet service providers are only liable for infringement if they intentionally encourage it, not merely by providing service knowing some users will infringe. This decision significantly limits ISP liability for user conduct and applies the same framework the court used in 2005 against file-sharing service Grokster.Read more →
TechCrunch...Waymo relies on firefighters and police to bail out stuck robotaxisWaymo robotaxis have repeatedly required first responders to physically move them from traffic during emergencies, including instances involving mass shootings and active crime scenes. City officials have expressed concerns that the company is inappropriately relying on taxpayer-funded emergency services rather than managing its own roadside assistance team. The incidents suggest potential limitations in the autonomous technology's ability to handle edge cases and raise accountability questions about large-scale robotaxi deployment.Read more →
Gizmodo...Trump Rewards Big Tech’s Biggest Bootlickers With Seats on AI Policy BoardThe White House announced new members of its President's Council of Advisors on Science and Technology (PCAST), including major tech leaders such as Marc Andreessen, Jensen Huang, and Mark Zuckerberg to advise on emerging technologies and workforce challenges. Notably absent is Elon Musk, the world's wealthiest person, with reasons for his exclusion remaining unclear amid reports of tensions between Musk and President Trump. The board may eventually expand to include up to 24 members and is expected to steer resources toward favored tech businesses aligned with administration priorities.Read more →
Gizmodo...Razer’s New Blade 16 Gaming Laptop May Have Good Battery life, for OnceRazer launches the 2026 Blade 16 with Intel's Panther Lake processor and promises a 60% battery life improvement, potentially making it viable as both a gaming and everyday device. Upgrades include faster LPDDR5X-9600MHz RAM, a brighter 1,100-nit HDR OLED display, improved audio, and Thunderbolt 5 connectivity. The laptop starts at $3,500 with an RTX 5080 GPU, addressing the previous generation's inability to maintain extended unplugged usage.Read more →
Engadget...Spotify is testing a tool to help real artists deal with AI slop on their profilesSpotify is testing Artist Profile Protection, a new feature enabling musicians to review and approve releases before they're associated with their profiles, addressing the growing problem of AI-generated songs being falsely attributed to real artists. The tool prevents low-quality AI music from damaging artists' brand identity and audience retention. This comes as approximately 50,000 AI-generated songs are uploaded to Spotify daily, prompting the platform to remove 75 million tracks last year.Read more →
The Verge...Reddit accounts with ‘fishy’ bot-like behavior will soon need to prove they’re humanReddit CEO Steve Huffman announced that human verification requirements will be rare and will not apply to most users, indicating a measured approach to platform security. The selective implementation suggests Reddit aims to balance verification needs with maintaining broad user accessibility.Read more →
TechCrunch...Reddit takes on the bots with new ‘human verification’ requirements for fishy behaviorReddit is implementing bot detection and human verification for suspected automated accounts using AI-powered tools and third-party authentication services while maintaining user privacy. The company will label legitimate service bots and require verification through passkeys, biometrics, or government IDs depending on jurisdiction. This initiative addresses the escalating problem of bot-driven misinformation and manipulation on social platforms, where bot traffic is projected to exceed human traffic by 2027.Read more →
Engadget...Reddit will prompt some accounts to 'verify humanness' in latest bot crackdownReddit is implementing selective humanness verification for accounts exhibiting bot-like behavior, using on-device methods such as FaceID and passkeys while preserving user anonymity. The company is also labeling verified bots and improving reporting tools to combat spam, while exploring compliance with age verification regulations. This addresses the growing challenge of bot-driven spam amid the rise of agentic AI systems.Read more →
CNET...OpenAI's Slop Machine Sora Is Dead. We're All Better Off Without ItOpenAI has discontinued Sora, its AI video generation app, after just 176 days, citing the immense cost and complexity of building generative media platforms. The company is shifting focus toward agentic AI and workplace tools rather than consumer-facing applications, reflecting a broader industry trend toward practical, business-centric AI solutions.Read more →
Gizmodo...What ‘Chainsaw Man’ and ‘Evangelion’ Share in Their EndingsManga series Chainsaw Man concluded with chapter 232, delivering an ending that has divided the fanbase in a manner comparable to Neon Genesis Evangelion's polarizing finale. The conclusion features Denji reconciling with Asa Mitaka, with creator Tatsuki Fujimoto deliberately pursuing his intended narrative vision rather than continuing the story. The ending's ambiguous and bittersweet tone has generated extensive fan debate and discourse across online communities.Read more →
Gizmodo...The US Has Already Caused $10 Trillion in Climate Damages—and the Math Gets WorseStanford researchers have developed a quantitative framework linking carbon emissions to actual global economic damages, finding that the U.S. has caused $10 trillion in damages since 1990. The study reveals that past emissions will generate damages 10 times higher than those already incurred through 2100, establishing clear financial accountability for climate change impacts. The framework suggests direct financial compensation for past damages combined with immediate emissions reduction represents the most practical path forward.Read more →
Engadget...Sony's upcoming Bravia 3 II is a mid-range LED TV available in sizes up to 100 inchesSony introduced the Bravia 3 II mid-range LED TV with sizes up to 100 inches, bringing premium features including the XR processor, Clear Image algorithm, 4K Dolby Vision support, and 120Hz refresh rates to more accessible price points. The TV integrates Google Gemini for voice control and includes four HDMI 2.1 ports for connecting multiple gaming consoles and devices.Read more →
The Verge...Google Lyria 3 Pro makes longer AI songsGoogle has expanded its Lyria 3 music-generation AI to create full tracks up to three minutes long, six times longer than the previous 30-second limit, and integrated it across multiple Google products including Gemini, Vertex AI, and ProducerAI. The update enables users greater creative control by allowing them to prompt for specific song elements like intros and choruses, raising concerns about copyright infringement that Google addresses through content checking and SynthID watermarking.Read more →
CNET...Sony's 2026 Soundbars and TVs Embrace Dolby Atmos SupportSony has announced a new lineup of premium soundbars and the Bravia 3 II television featuring Dolby Atmos support and advanced processing capabilities. The Bravia 3 II offers 4K 120Hz support with sizes ranging from 50 to 100 inches and pricing from $600 to $3,100. These products may represent among the last Sony-made televisions as the company transitions to a manufacturing partnership with TCL.Read more →
Engadget...Sony adds the Bravia Theater Bar 5 and Bar 7 to its soundbar lineupSony is introducing new Bravia Theater soundbar models—the premium Bar 7 and affordable Bar 5—alongside three subwoofers and enhanced rear speakers to expand its immersive audio ecosystem. The Bar 7 features nine drivers supporting Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, while the Bar 5 delivers Dolby Atmos capabilities at $350, making immersive home theater accessible across price points. The new lineup emphasizes dual subwoofer support and advanced driver technology for enhanced audio performance.Read more →
Gizmodo...Economy-Class Couch Seats Are Coming to United Airlines FlightsUnited Airlines will introduce the United Relax Row, a new economy seating option that transforms three seats into a flat, couch-like surface with adjustable leg rests, launching in 2027 across over 200 Boeing aircraft. This offering targets families, couples, and solo travelers seeking extra comfort on long-haul flights while maintaining economy pricing, though exact costs remain undisclosed. The initiative addresses passenger demand for improved airline comfort amid challenges including pricing hikes, security delays, and safety concerns.Read more →
Gizmodo...Privacy Isn’t the Only Thing Plaguing Meta’s Smart GlassesMeta's Ray-Ban smart glasses face regulatory obstacles in Europe due to EU requirements for removable batteries by 2027 and unclear AI regulations that may restrict the device's core AI-dependent features. The company is actively seeking exemptions from these rules, which represent more significant barriers to European expansion than the previously cited supply constraints. Privacy concerns are also mounting in the U.S., adding further complexity to the global rollout of the AI-enabled glasses.Read more →
TechCrunch...How soap opera-TikTok hybrids became a billion-dollar businessMicro dramas, a new category of short-form vertical mobile content, have become a multi-billion dollar industry with ReelShort generating $1.2 billion in consumer spending last year. These mobile-first scripted shows combine traditional soap opera narratives with TikTok-style engagement mechanics designed to maximize user retention. Industry experts view the sector as still in its early stages, comparable to the MySpace era, suggesting significant potential for future consolidation and growth.Read more →
TechCrunch...Harvey confirms $11B valuation: Sequoia triples downHarvey, an AI-powered legal tech startup, has closed a $200 million funding round at an $11 billion valuation, bringing its total raised to over $1 billion. The round was co-led by GIC and Sequoia with participation from major venture firms, reflecting strong investor confidence in AI applications for legal services.Read more →
The Verge...Live-service games are such a mess even Fortnite is strugglingEpic Games laid off over 1,000 employees due to declining Fortnite engagement and operational costs exceeding revenue, signaling unsustainability of the live-service gaming model even for the industry's most successful title. The move reflects a broader crisis across the gaming industry where publishers' investments in live-service games have failed to generate expected returns. This development may signal a critical inflection point for the gaming industry's business model strategy.Read more →
The Verge...Senate Democrats are trying to ‘codify’ Anthropic's red lines on autonomous weapons and mass surveillanceSenators Schiff and Slotkin are drafting legislation to mandate human oversight in military AI use and prevent mass domestic surveillance, following Anthropic's stand against unrestricted Pentagon access to its AI models. The bills ensure humans retain control over life-and-death decisions, addressing the Trump administration's recent blacklisting of Anthropic for its ethical constraints on military applications.Read more →
Gizmodo...A Common ADHD Med Might Not Raise Psychosis Risk After AllA UK study of 700,000 Finnish residents found no evidence that long-term methylphenidate (Ritalin) use increases psychotic disorder risk in ADHD patients, despite prior concerns about stimulant medications. While people with ADHD show higher baseline psychosis risk, the drug itself does not contribute to this elevated risk and may even provide slight protective effects when started before age 13. The findings reassure doctors, patients, and families about the safety of prolonged stimulant treatment for ADHD.Read more →
Gizmodo...Watch a Creepy as Hell Clip From the Excellent Game Adaptation ‘Exit 8’ (Exclusive)Exit 8, a film adaptation premiering April 10, blurs the boundary between games and cinema through innovative cinematography and practical effects that engage audiences as both players and spectators. Director Genki Kawamura translates the game's confined underground setting into a unique cinematic experience that explores universal themes of guilt and moral choice in modern urban life.Read more →
The Verge...You can install these wireless security cameras over half a mile awayXthings has introduced Ulticam security systems that utilize Wi-Fi HaLow technology to enable remote camera installations with extended range capabilities of up to 0.6 miles. This advancement allows for more flexible and expansive security coverage in areas where traditional Wi-Fi connectivity is limited or unavailable.Read more →
TechCrunch...Granola raises $125M, hits $1.5B valuation as it expands from meeting notetaker to enterprise AI appGranola secured $125 million in Series C funding, reaching a $1.5 billion valuation, as it transitions from a consumer meeting transcription app to enterprise software. The company is launching team workspace features and personal/enterprise APIs to enable bulk note access and AI workflow integration.Read more →
Engadget...Mark Zuckerberg, Jensen Huang and Sergey Brin join Trump's tech advisory panelMajor technology leaders including Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg, NVIDIA CEO Jensen Huang, and venture capitalist Marc Andreessen have joined President Trump's President's Council of Advisors on Science and Technology (PCAST) to advise on federal tech and science policy. The council will focus on emerging technologies' impact on the American workforce and positioning the US as a global AI leader. The appointments raise potential conflicts of interest concerns, as these companies have donated millions to Trump's political initiatives and could benefit from favorable federal regulations.Read more →
TechCrunch...Meta launches new initiative to support entrepreneurship, drive AI adoptionMeta has announced Meta Small Business, a company-wide initiative aimed at supporting entrepreneurship and accelerating AI adoption among small business owners. CEO Mark Zuckerberg emphasized that AI technology should make it easier for entrepreneurs to launch and grow new businesses, positioning the effort as critical for ensuring broad participation in the prosperity created by advanced AI systems. The initiative will be led by Meta President Dina Powell McCormick and head of product Naomi Gleit.Read more →
The Verge...Mark Zuckerberg and Jensen Huang are part of Trump’s new ‘tech panel’A new council has been established to provide strategic advice on artificial intelligence, economic policy, education, and national security matters. This advisory body aims to inform policy decisions across critical sectors affecting the nation's competitiveness and security priorities.Read more →
The Verge...Amazon's Big Spring Sale 2026: all of the latest dealsAmazon's Big Spring Sale, running through April 1st, offers significant discounts across consumer electronics including personal audio, home theater, video games, mobile accessories, and outdoor gear. The sale is open to all customers regardless of Prime membership, with major retailers like Best Buy, Walmart, and Target matching many of the promotional prices.Read more →
Engadget...Stephen Colbert is writing a new Lord of the Rings movieA new Lord of the Rings film titled 'Shadow of the Past' is in development with Stephen Colbert co-writing alongside screenwriter Philippa Boyens and his son Peter. The film is set 14 years after Return of the King and will follow Sam, Merry, and Pippin as they retrace their journey, with Sam's daughter Elanor as a central character on her own quest.Read more →
Engadget...Anthropic releases safer Claude Code 'auto mode' to avoid mass file deletions and other AI snafusAnthropic is previewing 'auto mode' for Claude Code, which uses a classifier system to balance autonomy with safety by permitting safe actions while preventing risky operations such as mass file deletions and unauthorized data access. This feature aims to reduce the likelihood of Claude executing potentially harmful commands while maintaining productivity in coding workflows.Read more →
TechCrunch...Arbor Energy just landed a billion-dollar order to bring rocket turbine tech to the power gridEnergy startup Arbor Energy secured a single-digit billion-dollar deal to supply up to 5 gigawatts of modular Halcyon turbines to GridMarket for data center and industrial power needs. The 3D-printed turbines, based on rocket turbomachinery technology, generate 25 megawatts each and support both biomass and natural gas fuels with carbon capture capabilities. First deployment is planned for 2028 as Arbor targets faster time-to-market than traditional turbine makers facing supply chain constraints.Read more →
TechCrunch...Meta turns to AI to make shopping easier on Instagram and FacebookMeta is testing AI-powered shopping features on Facebook and Instagram that summarize product reviews and information to enable faster purchases directly within the apps. The integrated checkout experience, powered by partnerships with Stripe, PayPal, and other payment providers, eliminates friction by allowing transactions to complete without leaving Meta's platforms. This initiative aims to increase sales revenue and compete with TikTok and Amazon in the e-commerce space while expanding creator monetization opportunities.Read more →
TechCrunch...Sony and Honda give up on their joint EV projectSony Honda Mobility has canceled its Afeela sedan and SUV following Honda's strategic pivot away from U.S. EV production, driven by tariffs and increased competition from Chinese manufacturers. The cancellation leaves the joint venture's future uncertain with implications for its employees across Tokyo and California. This decision reflects broader market challenges where multiple automakers are abandoning or delaying electric vehicle programs due to policy shifts and competitive pressures.Read more →
The Verge...Ring finally brings 4K video to its battery-powered doorbell cameraA company unveiled a new lineup of video doorbells featuring one 4K model and three 2K options, with pricing starting at $80. This product range offers consumers multiple resolution choices at an accessible price point for home security monitoring.Read more →
The Verge...Keychron’s mechanical keyboards are up to 60 percent offMajor retailers Amazon and Walmart are offering the latest tech models at their lowest-ever prices, while alternative retailers like Woot feature discounted older models. These deals provide consumers with multiple purchasing options across different price points for electronics.Read more →
Gizmodo...Brandon Sanderson’s ‘Magic: The Gathering’ Novella Is Back—at a Hefty PriceBrandon Sanderson's acclaimed Magic: The Gathering novella 'Children of the Nameless' is being published for the first time in print through a limited deluxe edition of 1,500 signed copies priced at $250. An unsigned version of 5,000 copies will follow next month, with wider availability and digital editions in development.Read more →
The Verge...Apple’s iOS 26.4 update adds age verification in the UKApple now requires users in the UK to verify their age with the launch of iOS 26.4. In a support page on Apple's website, the company says users must confirm that they're over 18 to "use certain services or features, or take certain actions on their account." UK users can confirm their age by scanning […]Read more →
Gizmodo...The Great Salt Lake Is Hiding Something Big, Study SuggestsAn airborne electromagnetic survey of the Great Salt Lake has revealed a deep freshwater reservoir extending 10,000 to 13,000 feet beneath the lakebed, far deeper than previously expected. This discovery could help mitigate severe dust pollution affecting Utah communities by potentially providing freshwater to wet the rapidly shrinking lake's exposed bed. Scientists are investigating how to sustainably utilize this subsurface resource without disrupting the freshwater system.Read more →
TechCrunch...Elon Musk pauses changes to X’s creator revenue-sharing program after backlashX announced a creator monetization policy prioritizing impressions from local audiences to discourage algorithm gaming and misinformation, but reversed the decision within hours following widespread criticism. The policy would have reduced earnings for creators posting content in English or about international topics outside their home region. The change was designed to encourage locally-relevant content creation while combating bad actors spreading misinformation.Read more →
CNET...30 Shark Vacuums Are on Sale Right Now. These Are the 2 Best DealsAmazon's Big Spring Sale offers significant discounts on Shark cordless vacuums, including the Shark Stratos at $300 (reduced from $500) and the Shark Clean & Empty at $250 (down from $350). The Shark Stratos achieved exceptional lab test results with 97.2% sand pickup on hardwood and over 94% debris removal from carpet, complemented by an 80-minute battery life. The Clean & Empty model adds convenience through automatic self-emptying functionality, making premium cordless cleaning technology more accessible at reduced prices.Read more →
Gizmodo...‘Jumanji 3’ Is Moving Out of the Way of ‘Avengers: Doomsday’ and ‘Dune: Part Three’Entertainment industry news covers multiple film and television projects in development, including Michael Mando joining Netflix's live-action Gundam adaptation and Disney naming directors for its Cinderella reimagining. The roundup features updates on horror and supernatural thrillers, casting announcements, and release date changes including Jumanji 3 moving to Christmas Day to avoid competition with other major releases.Read more →
The Verge...The best deals we’ve found from Amazon’s Big Spring Sale (so far)Amazon's third annual Big Spring Sale runs through March 31st, offering discounts on consumer electronics including speakers, headphones, robot vacuums, and smart home devices. While deals are less steep than Black Friday or Prime Day, the sale represents an early-year savings opportunity to mitigate tariff-related price increases. The article provides curated recommendations for tested and verified products worth purchasing across multiple gadget categories.Read more →
CNET...58 of the Best TV Shows on Netflix That Will Keep You EntertainedNetflix's recommendation roundup helps viewers overcome decision paralysis by curating a list of the streamer's best shows, from iconic series like Stranger Things and The Crown to underrated originals. The guide provides a time-saving solution to the common problem of spending hours searching Netflix without committing to a show, featuring both classics and newly available content.Read more →
Engadget...Ring adds 4K to its battery-powered video doorbellsRing announced upgraded battery-powered video doorbells, with the flagship Battery Doorbell Pro (2nd gen) now featuring 4K video, 10x zoom, and extended battery life, while lower-end models receive 2K imaging and 6x zoom capabilities. The company launched new Solar Charger and Solar Panel accessories that integrate into the doorbell mount to reduce charging frequency. These updates enable customers unable to install hardwired power connections to access premium video doorbell features previously available only in wired models.Read more →
The Verge...Dell made its new Pro laptops thinner and tweaked their naming scheme, againDell is launching a redesigned Pro laptop lineup with a modular motherboard design that enables thinner chassis, larger cooling systems, and improved battery performance. The new Pro 3, 5, and 7 models will be available in multiple sizes with both AMD Ryzen AI 400 and Intel Core Ultra Series 3 processors, offering Windows 11 or Ubuntu Linux options at launch in May. The company is also introducing updated entry-level Precision workstations and a lightweight Pro 14 Premium variant designed to compete in the premium ultraportable segment.Read more →
The Verge...Reolink’s first solar-powered floodlight camera offers wire-free home securityA subscription-free camera eliminates recurring costs while providing three months of battery-powered operation, enabling flexible installation anywhere without dependency on service subscriptions. The extended runtime and elimination of subscription fees address a significant cost pain point in the smart camera market.Read more →
TechCrunch...After pivoting, Y Combinator grad Glimpse raises $35M led by a16zGlimpse raised $35 million in Series A funding from Andreessen Horowitz to expand its AI-powered dispute-tracking platform that automates the process of identifying and recovering invalid deductions for retailers and brands. The platform uses AI agents to identify invalid deductions, file disputes, and recover lost revenue, reducing what is typically a manual and error-prone process. The company has partnered with over 200 retail brands and aims to become the AI infrastructure backbone for CPG and retail companies.Read more →
TechCrunch...Harbinger’s next product will be hybrid emergency vehiclesHarbinger, an electric vehicle platform startup, partnered with Frazer to build hybrid ambulances and mobile healthcare vehicles on its flexible modular chassis. The partnership also includes Harbinger's battery-based auxiliary power units as replacements for traditional generators in emergency vehicles. This deal demonstrates commercial vehicle adoption of EV platforms despite broader headwinds in the passenger vehicle market.Read more →
TechCrunch...Arinna raises $4M seed round to solve the space power problemArinna, a Stanford-founded startup, raised $4 million to develop ultrathin solar panels using transition metal dichalcogenides for spacecraft applications. The company's technology offers 32% greater efficiency, improved durability against cosmic radiation, and faster delivery compared to current satellite solar panels. Arinna plans to conduct orbital tests of its first qualification panels by year-end 2026, with mass production at megawatt scale targeted for 2028.Read more →
TechCrunch...With Sift Stack, two ex-SpaceX engineers are bringing the software that helped launch rockets to the factory floorFactory automation is increasingly driven by software and AI rather than hardware alone, forcing companies to rethink their infrastructure priorities. Sift Stack, a data management platform for manufacturing companies, exemplifies this shift by pivoting from custom workflows to focusing on data infrastructure that feeds AI systems. As machines generate massive volumes of sensor data, the ability to organize and expose that data to AI applications has become a critical competitive advantage.Read more →
The Verge...Sony and Honda ain’t feelin’ the Afeela anymoreA $90,000 electric sedan has been discontinued and scrapped as automakers adjust to declining EV demand and shifting regulatory policies. The cancellation reflects broader market challenges facing the electric vehicle industry amid consumer hesitation and government incentive uncertainty.Read more →
Engadget...Sennheiser's owners want to sell its consumer headphone businessSonova has announced the divestment of its Sennheiser consumer audio division, which manufactures premium headphones, to refocus on its core hearing care business. The division, acquired less than five years ago to expand into younger demographics, will be auctioned to find a new owner. This strategic shift prioritizes Sonova's primary hearing aid market over the consumer audio segment.Read more →
CNET...We've Been Tracking Our Favorite Deals Across the Amazon Big Spring Sale and There Are a Ton of Great OnesAmazon's Big Spring Sale offers discounts across numerous product categories, including consumer electronics and home appliances, with some deals providing savings exceeding $200. While some listings feature inflated original prices disguised as discounts, the promotion includes genuine bargains on products like Apple AirTags, Sony headphones, and kitchen appliances. CNET has curated the most substantial savings to help consumers identify authentic deals during the promotional period.Read more →
CNET...Should You Upgrade to the iPhone 17E? How It Compares to iPhone 14, 15 and 16Apple announced the iPhone 17E, bringing premium features from its flagship model to the budget segment at $599, including a 48-megapixel camera, A19 chip, 256GB base storage, and MagSafe support. The device offers significant improvements over older models like the iPhone 14 with better battery life, Ceramic Shield 2 protection, and Apple Intelligence support, though it trades camera versatility with a single sensor and retains a traditional notch instead of Dynamic Island. The upgrade is most compelling for users with iPhone 14 or older devices, while iPhone 16 users may find the improvements marginal.Read more →
CNET...We're All Flailing With AI: I Tried Art That Pokes Back at the ChaosSXSW 2026 showcased AI-integrated art and gaming experiences that reveal both the creative potential and emerging concerns about authenticity, manipulation, and design ethics. Interactive installations using AI-generated dialogue, deepfakes, and voice synthesis demonstrated rapid technological advancement, though many raised questions about whether design and ethical considerations can keep pace with development.Read more →
CNET...Samsung's Galaxy A37, A57 New Pricing Tests the Limits of a Plastic PhoneSamsung introduced the Galaxy A37 ($450) and Galaxy A57 ($550), marking a $50 price increase over their predecessors, attributed to market conditions and RAM shortages. Both devices feature IP68 water resistance and an updated Circle to Search with Galaxy AI photo editing tools. The A37 offers plastic construction with multiple color options, while the A57 upgrades to a metal body and lighter design at 179 grams.Read more →
CNET...I've Tested Phones for 14 Years and These Are the Most Bizarre I've SeenA veteran tech journalist reflects on 15 years of encountering unusual experimental phones that attempted innovative designs but mostly failed in the marketplace. The article examines various quirky devices including square BlackBerrys, dual-display phones, and crypto-focused models, showing how creative ideas often didn't translate to practical success. Notable exceptions like Samsung's Galaxy Note and Galaxy Fold eventually influenced industry trends despite initial skepticism.Read more →
Gizmodo...This ‘Star Trek Online’ Trailer Is Actually a Killer ‘Enterprise’ DocumentaryStar Trek Online released a creative 14-minute documentary-style trailer celebrating multiple anniversaries by featuring Enterprise-era ships coming to the game, framing them as historical vessels rather than promotional content. The trailer explores an under-explored period of Star Trek continuity between Enterprise and the Original Series, offering both real-world anniversary celebration and in-universe historical perspective.Read more →
The Verge...Samsung’s Galaxy A57 gets thinner, faster, and more expensiveSamsung has announced its two newest midrange phones, the Galaxy A57 and A37. Both phones benefit from a jump to IP68 water-resistance and some improved AI features, but the bigger upgrades are reserved for the A57, which is now thinner, lighter, and has a slimmer bezel around the display. The downside? They both also cost […]Read more →
Engadget...Samsung Galaxy A37 and A57 hands-on: The cheaper phone might be a winnerSamsung launched the Galaxy A37 ($450) and A57 ($550) as competitively priced midrange phones, with the A37 offering superior value through a large 6.7-inch AMOLED display, improved Exynos 1480 processor, and AI features like Circle to Search and Object Eraser. The A37 emerges as the stronger proposition against competitors like the Pixel 10a, while the more expensive A57 faces stiffer competition from the Galaxy S25 FE and other alternatives.Read more →
Engadget...Apple introduces age verification for iCloud accounts in the UKApple has implemented age verification requirements in iOS 26.4 for UK users, requiring proof of being 18 years or older via credit card or ID verification to access certain services. The company automatically enables Web Content Filter and Communication Safety features for users under 18 and those who cannot verify their age, restricting website access and warning about explicit content. This initiative enhances protection for minors while establishing stronger age-gating mechanisms across Apple's ecosystem.Read more →
The Verge...Anthropic’s Claude Code gets ‘safer’ auto modeAnthropic has launched an 'auto mode' for Claude Code that enables the AI to make permissions-level decisions autonomously while implementing safeguards to prevent risky actions like file deletion or unauthorized data access. The feature provides a safer middle ground between constant user supervision and unrestricted AI autonomy. Currently available as a research preview for Team plan users, with expansion to Enterprise and API users expected in the coming days.Read more →
CNET...Get the Most Accurate Readings With the 4 Best Chest Strap Heart-Rate Monitors for Your WorkoutsThis article reviews three chest strap heart-rate monitors for fitness tracking: the Polar H10 (premium, most accurate), the CooSpo H808S (budget-friendly), and the MyZone MZ Switch (beginner-friendly with dual strap design). Each monitor offers different advantages depending on user needs, activity type, and budget constraints. The review provides guidance on which device is best suited for different fitness goals and user profiles.Read more →
Gizmodo...Polar’s Cheaper Street X Smartwatch Is Here to Steal Away Garmin UsersPolar launched the Street X, a $250 fitness-focused smartwatch that combines premium features from higher-end Garmin models without requiring a monthly subscription. The watch supports 170 sports and activities with advanced sleep and recovery monitoring, military-grade durability (MIL-STD-810H), and up to 10 days of battery life. This positions Polar to directly compete with Garmin's mid-range smartwatch offerings at a significantly lower price point.Read more →
Gizmodo...Andy Weir Says ‘Project Hail Mary’ Improved on the Book in One Very Specific PlaceProject Hail Mary's film adaptation removes the rare gene explanation from Andy Weir's book, instead justifying the protagonist's selection for the space mission through his expertise and circumstance. Author Weir praised the screenwriter and directors' choice, noting that the movie's approach eliminates what he felt was a contrived narrative device in his original novel.Read more →
The Verge...It's always a good time to revisit Super Mario Bros. WonderSuper Mario Bros. Wonder receives a substantial $20 expansion for Nintendo Switch 2 featuring seven new challenging levels with boss battles and a training camp with progressive difficulty challenges. The expansion includes 17 multiplayer minigames that transform the game into a Mario Party-like experience, along with new playable character Rosalina and additional power-ups. This robust update significantly extends gameplay longevity with fresh content for both single-player and multiplayer experiences.Read more →
TechCrunch...Lucid Bots raises $20M to keep up with demand for its window-washing dronesLucid Bots, a robotics startup making window cleaning drones and building maintenance robots, raised $20 million in Series B funding, bringing total funding to $34 million. The company has achieved strong commercial traction, growing from 100 units sold in five years to approaching 1,000 units, with demand significantly outpacing manufacturing capacity. The startup is expanding into adjacent services like painting and waterproofing for buildings.Read more →
Gizmodo...Roborock Kicks Off Spring Cleaning Season With Up to $300 Off Select Powerful Robot VacuumsRoborock has released the F25 Ultra and F25 GT, all-in-one wet-dry vacuum cleaners that combine vacuuming and mopping in a single pass, eliminating the need for separate tools and streamlining floor cleaning routines. The F25 Ultra features 22,000Pa suction power with steam cleaning at 356°F, while the lighter F25 GT offers 20,000Pa suction for smaller spaces. Both models are on limited-time sale through March 31, with prices dropping to $499.99 and $189.99 respectively.Read more →
Gizmodo...Report: Apple Is Testing Features That Will Put Siri All Over Your iPhone ExperienceApple plans to debut a redesigned, AI-powered Siri at WWDC on June 8, featuring multiple access points including a dedicated app, Dynamic Island integration, and inline keyboard options with chatbot-like threaded conversations. The update aims to make Siri ubiquitous across iOS 27 similar to Google's Gemini integration, though advanced personalization features are delayed until later in 2026.Read more →
CNET...The Best Hair Dryers of 2026, Tested on 6 Different Hair TypesCNET experts reviewed multiple hair dryer models tested across different hair types to identify the best options for various needs and budgets. Top recommendations include the Shark Ionic SpeedStyle for overall performance, Dyson Supersonic for curly hair, and Conair Ion Shine 1875 for budget-conscious consumers. The review evaluates factors including price, weight, attachments, heat settings, and intelligent heat control technology to help reduce hair damage.Read more →
Engadget...Sony and Honda kill its Afeela EVsSony Honda Mobility is discontinuing development of its Afeela electric vehicles due to mounting losses and competitive pressures in the EV market. Honda recorded a $15.7 billion EV-related loss partly driven by US policy changes that removed federal EV tax credits and imposed tariffs, making the expensive Afeela project economically unfeasible.Read more →
CNET...Apple TV: 15 of the Best Sci-Fi Shows You Should Stream Right NowApple TV's rebranding and limited discoverability make it challenging for viewers to find its quality science fiction content, which relies on organic word-of-mouth discovery. The platform offers standout sci-fi series like Severance, For All Mankind, Murderbot, and Dark Matter with strong storytelling and world-building. This curated guide helps viewers navigate the platform and discover the best science fiction shows available.Read more →
Gizmodo...A Program Is Now Sending Basic Income Payments to AI-Impacted WorkersA nonprofit program called the AI Dividend has begun issuing monthly payments of $1,000 to people negatively impacted by AI-related job losses, currently reaching 25-50 individuals. The initiative addresses growing concerns about AI-related layoffs and 'AI washing,' where companies cite AI to justify workforce reductions for investor appeal. The program reflects broader discussions about universal basic income as a potential remedy for societal disruption caused by AI proliferation.Read more →
Engadget...X is changing its revenue-sharing policy to deter users pretending to be AmericansX is revising its revenue-sharing model to prioritize engagement from users' home regions and language groups, discouraging accounts outside the US from creating US-politics content that artificially inflates engagement metrics. The policy, effective March 26, aims to encourage creators to produce locally relevant content rather than gaming the platform's largest markets.Read more →
Gizmodo...Kindly Uncle Unleashes Fires of Hell With Giant Boosted Tesla CoilGreg Leyh has upgraded his colossal Tesla coil, originally built in 1990, to produce significantly higher output currents using pulse forming network and plasma channel technology. Demonstrations of the enhanced system show devastating effects on electronics and structures, including destroying incandescent tubes, obliterating test buildings, and completely liquefying a car's electronics. The device currently operates at a 30-foot range but could potentially extend to 300 feet through relativistic runaway breakdown.Read more →
Gizmodo...Another New ‘Lord of the Rings’ Movie Is in the WorksWarner Bros. announced a new Lord of the Rings film titled 'Shadow of the Past,' set 14 years after Return of the King, featuring Sam, Merry, and Pippin reuniting to retrace their original adventure. The story follows Sam's daughter Elanor as she uncovers secrets from the early War of the Ring that nearly prevented the mission to destroy the One Ring. Stephen Colbert co-wrote the screenplay, drawing from chapters of Fellowship of the Ring not included in Peter Jackson's film adaptation.Read more →
TechCrunch...A former Thiel fellow’s startup just launched a drone it says can replace police helicoptersBrinc launched Guardian, an advanced public safety drone designed as a police helicopter replacement, featuring 60 mph speed, 62-minute flight time, embedded Starlink connectivity, and thermal/4K cameras with zoom. Recent restrictions on foreign drones have created significant market opportunity, with Brinc positioning itself as 'the DJI of the West' to capture an estimated $6-8 billion U.S. public safety market.Read more →
The Verge...The BB-777 is the ultimate in boombox nostalgiaThe BB-777 is a modern recreation of the iconic Sharp GF-777 boombox, bringing classic retro design to the contemporary consumer electronics market. This product targets the growing demand for vintage-inspired audio devices among consumers seeking nostalgic entertainment equipment. The boombox combines retro aesthetics with modern functionality for audio playback and listening.Read more →
Gizmodo...‘Daredevil: Born Again’ Season 2 Is a Slow Burn That’s Worth the WaitDaredevil: Born Again season two starts slowly with repetitive storytelling but is redeemed by exceptional final three episodes that deliver powerful narrative payoffs and action sequences. Matt Murdock's battle against Kingpin and the AVTF is elevated by strong ensemble performances, with the finale praised as one of Marvel Studios' best television episodes, perfectly concluding one chapter while launching an unexpectedly new direction.Read more →
CNET...'Daredevil: Born Again' Season 2 Review: Series Soars With Unexpected Turns, Pumped-Up Suspense and Fierce ActionDaredevil: Born Again season 2 delivers intense action and complex storytelling centered on Matt Murdock's conflict with Kingpin in a power-corrupted New York City. The season maintains the series' signature visceral violence and superhero crime drama appeal while exploring themes of redemption and justice through well-executed fight choreography and compelling performances. With strong supporting characters and high production values, the sophomore season sustains momentum throughout its eight episodes.Read more →
TechCrunch...Amazon just bought a startup making kid-size humanoid robotsAmazon has acquired Fauna Robotics, a startup founded by former Meta and Google engineers that develops kid-size humanoid robots. The acquisition combines Fauna's robotics innovation with Amazon's retail and home automation expertise to advance humanoid robot development. Fauna has already begun shipping its first product, a 59-pound bipedal robot called Sprout, to select research partners.Read more →
TechCrunch...With $3.5B in fresh capital, Kleiner Perkins is going all in on AIKleiner Perkins raised $3.5 billion across early-stage and late-stage investment vehicles, a significant increase from its $2 billion fundraise two years ago. The capital increase reflects the firm's strong track record investing in high-growth AI startups and maintaining positions in major companies like Anthropic and SpaceX expected to IPO this year. Recent successful exits including Figma's IPO and portfolio acquisitions demonstrate the firm's continued investment returns and market positioning.Read more →
Gizmodo...‘Watershed Moment’: Meta Just Lost a Huge Court Case About Child SafetyMeta was found liable by a New Mexico jury for misleading consumers about platform safety and endangering children, resulting in $375 million in civil penalties. The verdict marks the first state court case to hold Meta accountable for intentionally designing platforms to addict young people and failing to protect minors from sexual exploitation. The case sets a significant precedent as other states and the federal government increase scrutiny of social media's impact on child safety and mental health.Read more →
CNET...The BlackBerry-Esque Smartphone With a Full Keyboard Just Launched on KickstarterUnihertz is launching the Titan 2 Elite, an Android smartphone featuring a full backlit QWERTY keyboard, marking a resurgence in physical keyboard-equipped mobile devices. The device exceeded its $100,000 Kickstarter goal with over $2.1 million pledged from 4,500+ backers, demonstrating significant consumer demand for tactile input methods. Available at $396-$486 during crowdfunding, the Titan 2 Elite represents both a nostalgic return to BlackBerry-era phones and a viable alternative in the modern smartphone market.Read more →
TechCrunch...New Mexico just handed Meta its first courtroom defeat over child safety, and the rest of the country is watchingA Santa Fe jury ordered Meta to pay $375 million in civil penalties for misleading consumers about platform safety and endangering children, marking the first jury verdict against the company on child harm claims. Evidence demonstrated that Meta executives knew their products harmed children but disregarded internal warnings and misled the public about known risks. The verdict opens the door to additional penalties and court-mandated platform changes through an ongoing bench trial phase.Read more →
TechCrunch...Lululemon bets Epoch Biodesign can eat its shorts, literallyEpoch Biodesign has developed an enzyme-based process to break down textile waste into monomers that can be used to manufacture new plastic. By using waste material instead of petroleum, the company avoids supply volatility while recovering over 90% of desired compounds. The startup raised $12 million and plans to open a commercial facility by 2028.Read more →
TechCrunch...OpenAI’s Sora was the creepiest app on your phone — now it’s shutting downOpenAI has discontinued Sora, its AI-powered social media application launched six months ago, due to inability to sustain user engagement despite initial hype. The app faced significant challenges including content moderation failures that enabled unauthorized deepfakes of public figures, declining downloads from peak usage, and a canceled Disney partnership worth $1 billion. The underlying Sora 2 video generation model remains available through ChatGPT's API.Read more →
CNET...Apple May Give Siri a Big AI Overhaul in iOS 27Apple is developing a major redesign of Siri to function as a standalone AI chatbot, similar to ChatGPT, featuring a new interface and dedicated button to increase visibility across its ecosystem. The overhaul is expected to be announced at WWDC on June 8 and deployed in iOS 27, iPadOS 27, and macOS 27 later this year. This marks Apple's renewed push to compete in the generative AI space after previous delays to its advanced Siri initiatives.Read more →
TechCrunch...Accel, Prosus pick six ‘off-the-map’ startups for inaugural India cohortAccel and Prosus announced their first joint venture cohort in India, backing six startups tackling unconventional problems in healthcare, space, climate, and longevity with long development timelines and uncertain markets. The selected companies span air quality systems, satellite communications, reusable orbital launch vehicles, cancer detection, and brain-computer interfaces, with investments ranging from $500,000 to $2 million. The investment structure prioritizes long-term breakthroughs over near-term growth, deferring equity to reduce early dilution for founders.Read more →
Engadget...Meta is letting creators fill their Reels with shopping linksMeta is expanding creator monetization by allowing up to 30 clickable product links directly in Reels on Facebook and Instagram, matching features already available on TikTok and YouTube Shorts. The feature simplifies affiliate marketing for creators and brand partnerships while giving Meta access to valuable consumer purchasing data to enhance its advertising business. This could drive higher conversion rates for creator-recommended products but may also increase the visibility of promotional content on the platform.Read more →
The Verge...Instagram and Facebook are about to be filled with affiliate contentInfluencers will gain the ability to directly embed product links within their content, similar to TikTok Shop's existing functionality. This feature streamlines the path to purchase and enhances monetization opportunities for content creators while improving the consumer shopping experience.Read more →
CNET...A Historic Heat Dome Is Creeping Across the US. Here's How to PrepareA record-breaking heat dome is sweeping across the United States, reaching temperatures of 112 degrees Fahrenheit and spreading eastward to affect up to one-third of mainland states. The phenomenon poses significant public health risks, with heat being the leading weather-related cause of death in the US, while climate researchers confirm such extreme events are now virtually impossible without human-induced climate change.Read more →
Engadget...Jury rules against Meta, orders $375 million fine in major child safety trialA New Mexico jury found Meta liable on all counts for violating state consumer protection laws related to child safety and exploitation, ordering the company to pay $375 million. The verdict concluded that Meta knowingly misled consumers about platform safety despite internal awareness of harms including sextortion, self-harm content, and grooming risks. The state will pursue an additional public nuisance claim against Meta in a bench trial scheduled for May.Read more →
Gizmodo...R.I.P Sora (2024-2026)OpenAI is discontinuing Sora, its AI video generation model and consumer app, as the company refocuses on business and productivity tools. Despite initial technological breakthroughs, the platform failed to build sustained user engagement despite viral deepfaking features. The fate of the underlying Sora model remains uncertain, with OpenAI still determining whether it will be preserved, integrated elsewhere, or discontinued entirely.Read more →
TechCrunch...Kentucky woman rejects $26 million offer to turn her farm into a data centerA Kentucky family refused a $26 million offer from an AI company to build a data center on their 1,200-acre farm, citing concerns about environmental damage including water shortages and ground poisoning. The company is now seeking to rezone over 2,000 nearby acres to build the facility regardless, highlighting tensions between data center expansion and agricultural land preservation.Read more →
Gizmodo...This is What Has Become of the Humane Ai Pin: An Enterprise Laptop ChatbotHP has launched HP IQ, an on-device AI chatbot for commercial laptops that runs a 20-billion parameter model locally to process tasks while preserving user privacy. Built by former Humane executives using CosmOS technology from the failed Ai Pin, it handles routine office work like document summaries, transcription, and file analysis without sending sensitive data to the cloud. The feature will begin rolling out to HP EliteBook X laptops in spring 2026, with consumer laptops expected to receive it in 2027.Read more →
CNET...Meta Ordered to Pay $375M in New Mexico Child Exploitation LawsuitA New Mexico jury found Meta violated state consumer protection laws by misleading users about child safety on Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp, resulting in a $375 million penalty. The state alleged that Meta executives knew their platforms were harming children but prioritized profits over safety. The attorney general announced plans to seek additional penalties and require the company to implement platform changes to protect minors.Read more →
CNET...Anthropic's AI Piracy Settlement Is Getting Close to Final ApprovalA landmark copyright settlement between authors and Anthropic is nearing final approval, with nearly 100,000 claims filed seeking compensation for alleged unauthorized use of their works in training Claude. Anthropic will pay $1.5 billion total, with qualifying authors receiving $3,000 per work, marking the largest copyright payout in history. The company certified that no pirated content was used in released Claude models and committed to destroying all pirated materials.Read more →
Engadget...Sony is reportedly shutting down Dark Outlaw Games, run by former Call of Duty directorSony is shutting down Dark Outlaw Games, a first-party studio led by former Call of Duty producer Jason Blundell. The closure reflects the company's retreat from live-service multiplayer games following previous failures and abandoned projects, with the company also cutting PlayStation mobile development staff.Read more →
The Verge...Meta misled users about its products’ safety, jury decidesNew Mexico secured a historic $375 million jury verdict against Meta, marking the opening case in a series of nationwide lawsuits. This significant judgment represents a major legal victory and potential precedent for future litigation against the technology giant. The verdict underscores mounting legal and regulatory challenges facing Meta across multiple states.Read more →
CNET...NASA's Ignition Program: Skipping the Lunar Orbiter and Going Straight for a Moon BaseNASA has announced Ignition, a new initiative that scraps the Lunar Gateway orbital station in favor of constructing a permanent base on the moon, aiming to return humans to the lunar surface before the end of President Trump's term. The multi-phase program, spanning seven years with a $20 billion budget, represents a strategic shift to maintain American leadership in space amid competition from China. The initiative also includes replacing the International Space Station by 2030 and launching a nuclear-powered spacecraft to Mars in 2028.Read more →
The Verge...NASA wants to put a $20 billion base on the MoonNASA Administrator Jared Isaacman announced plans to launch a nuclear-powered spacecraft to Mars by the end of 2028, marking a significant milestone in deep space exploration. This initiative demonstrates a major technological advancement and renewed commitment to human Mars missions, leveraging nuclear propulsion to overcome current limitations in space travel.Read more →
CNET...Turn a Photo Into a 5-Second Video With Snapchat's AI Clips FeatureSnapchat has launched AI Clips, a feature that generates 5-second AI videos from a single photograph using developer-created lens templates through its $9/month Lens Plus subscription. The closed-prompt system enables both experienced and new developers to build and monetize AI video experiences, making AI video generation accessible to general users and creators.Read more →
Engadget...Baltimore sues xAI over Grok deepfakesBaltimore filed a municipal lawsuit against xAI, alleging that the company violated consumer protection laws by marketing Grok without adequately disclosing associated risks. The lawsuit stems from Grok's image generation tool being misused to create millions of sexualized images, including thousands of minors, highlighting critical gaps in AI safety oversight.Read more →
Gizmodo...Disney Says It Will Find Ways to Peddle Slop Elsewhere After Pulling Out of OpenAI DealOpenAI has announced it is shuttering its Sora video generation platform, effectively ending a $1 billion partnership with Disney announced just months earlier. Under the deal, Sora would have been able to generate short videos featuring over 200 Disney, Marvel, Pixar, and Star Wars characters for fans. While Disney respects OpenAI's decision to exit video generation, the company indicates it will continue seeking AI partnerships with other platforms to engage audiences while protecting its intellectual property rights.Read more →
The Verge...What is ICE actually doing at the airport?A Department of Homeland Security shutdown has left TSA agents working without pay, causing staffing shortages and extended security lines at major airports nationwide. President Trump deployed ICE agents to assist with passenger processing, but observations revealed they were largely ineffective and uninvolved in crowd management. The political impasse over DHS funding continues as Congress negotiates priorities for TSA, border enforcement, and voter ID legislation.Read more →
CNET...15 Excellent Horror Movies to Watch on HBO MaxHBO Max provides an extensive collection of horror films, including popular titles such as The Substance and The Conjuring: Last Rites, making it an attractive option for genre enthusiasts. With pricing starting at $11 per month or $110 annually, and bundling options available with Disney Plus and Hulu, the platform offers flexible access to premium entertainment content.Read more →
CNET...Samsung's 2026 QLED and Mini LED TVs Boast AI Soccer ModeSamsung introduced four new TV models for 2026 with specialized AI Soccer Mode that optimizes display settings for a stadium-like viewing experience, featuring enhanced color, contrast, and motion clarity. The QLED QN80H and QN70H models, along with Mini LED M80H and M70H, offer sizes from 43 to 100 inches with advanced gaming support and seven years of software updates. Pricing ranges from $350 to $5,500 across the lineup.Read more →
Engadget...OpenAI is shutting down its Sora video generation appOpenAI is discontinuing its Sora video generation app and API to redirect resources toward world simulation research for robotics applications. The decision follows declining user interest since the platform's debut, with download and spending metrics showing consistent month-over-month decreases. The company will announce specific shutdown dates at a later time.Read more →
The Verge...OpenAI just gave up Sora and its billion-dollar Disney dealOpenAI is shutting down its video generator despite considerable industry hype and a major Disney partnership deal. The discontinuation represents a setback for the company's AI video generation ambitions. This decision highlights the market challenges even well-funded companies face in sustaining advanced AI video products.Read more →
CNET...Apple Watch Series 11 vs. Series 10: Is the New Smartwatch Worth the Upgrade?The Apple Watch Series 11 maintains the same design and pricing as the Series 10 but introduces significant battery improvements, delivering 24 hours versus 18 hours of usage on a single charge, with up to 38 hours in Low Power Mode. Key enhancements include 5G connectivity for cellular models and improved scratch-resistant glass, though the processor and sensors remain identical. This incremental update prioritizes power efficiency and connectivity rather than hardware redesign.Read more →
CNET...Best VPN for Mac for 2026: Improve Your Privacy for Web Browsing, Streaming and GamingCNET reviews the best VPN services for Mac computers, with Surfshark emerging as the top overall recommendation due to its split-tunneling capability and privacy features. The guide evaluates VPNs across critical performance metrics including encryption standards, server networks, speed impact, and streaming unblocking ability, helping users make informed decisions about online privacy protection based on their specific needs and budget.Read more →
TechCrunch...Anthropic hands Claude Code more control, but keeps it on a leashAnthropic has introduced 'auto mode,' a research preview feature that enables Claude to autonomously execute safe actions without human approval while automatically blocking risky operations through built-in safeguards and prompt injection detection. The feature addresses developer concerns about constantly supervising AI actions and represents industry movement toward autonomous AI tools that make their own permission decisions. Currently available to Enterprise and API users, auto mode only supports Claude Sonnet 4.6 and Opus 4.6 and is recommended for use in isolated, sandboxed environments.Read more →
CNET...Amazon's Big Spring Sale Is Tomorrow. Our Readers Are Already Eyeing These Tech DealsAmazon's Big Spring Sale from March 25-31 offers significant discounts on consumer tech products including headphones, smart home devices, and fitness trackers. The sale presents opportunities for consumers to upgrade older tech models at steep discounts, with CNET-curated recommendations helping shoppers identify the best value deals.Read more →
TechCrunch...Spotify tests new tool to stop AI slop from being attributed to real artistsSpotify is launching a beta 'Artist Profile Protection' feature that allows artists to review and approve releases before they appear on their profiles, addressing the growing problem of AI-generated music and metadata errors landing on incorrect artist pages. The tool aims to protect artist identity and prevent unauthorized tracks from impacting their catalog statistics, listener discovery, and fan engagement. This move comes after Sony Music requested removal of over 135,000 AI-generated songs impersonating its artists across streaming services.Read more →
Gizmodo...Watch First Video Evidence of Sperm Whales Headbutting Each OtherResearchers have documented sperm whale headbutting behavior through drone footage, confirming it as a recurring activity primarily among younger whales. The behavior appears to be rough play rather than dominance assertion, with whales communicating during interactions, though its exact purpose requires further study.Read more →
The Verge...Arm’s first CPU ever will plug into Meta’s AI datacenters later this yearArm introduced its new AGI CPU architecture supporting up to 136 cores per processor, claiming double the performance per watt compared to x86 chips. This represents a significant advancement in CPU efficiency for high-performance computing workloads.Read more →
The Verge...Apple is testing a standalone app for its overhauled SiriApple will debut a significantly enhanced Siri at WWDC 2026 as a systemwide AI agent with deep integration across iOS and macOS applications, capable of controlling apps and completing tasks using personal data. The new Siri will feature a dedicated chat-like app interface, improved web search with summaries and visual results, and redesigned UI elements, positioning it to compete with AI-powered search tools like Perplexity and Google Gemini.Read more →
TechCrunch...Databricks bought two startups to underpin its new AI security productDatabricks launched Lakewatch, a new security product powered by Claude AI agents that performs threat detection and investigation on massive datasets. The company acquired two startups, Antimatter and SiftD.ai, to build the platform, with security researcher Andrew Krioukov leading the team. This marks Databricks' expansion into the enterprise security market following its $5 billion funding round.Read more →
TechCrunch...Crusoe makes big battery buys for its data centersData center developer Crusoe will purchase 12 gigawatt-hours of Form Energy's iron-air batteries, with deliveries beginning in 2027. This deal follows Form Energy's $1 billion Google contract and demonstrates growing adoption of long-duration energy storage technology for powering data centers. The transaction supports Form Energy's expansion during its $500 million funding round.Read more →
CNET...Roku's $3 Howdy Streaming Service Is Now on Prime VideoRoku's Howdy streaming service, a $3-per-month ad-free platform launched in August 2025, is now available as an add-on subscription through Amazon Prime Video in the US, marking its first expansion beyond Roku devices. This integration allows Prime members direct access to Howdy's library of thousands of titles and over 10,000 hours of content, including rom-coms, dramas, and Roku originals. The partnership represents an opportunity for Roku to reach a broader audience while complementing premium streaming services.Read more →
Gizmodo...Epic Games Laying Off 1,000+ Employees, Swears AI Is Not to BlameEpic Games is laying off over 1,000 employees and implementing $500 million in cost savings due to declining Fortnite engagement, weaker consumer spending, and increased competition, despite the game's continued popularity. The company will refocus efforts on core Fortnite experiences with seasonal content and live events. CEO Tim Sweeney explicitly stated the layoffs are not related to AI, emphasizing the company wants to maintain developer capacity for content creation.Read more →
Gizmodo...‘Starfleet Academy’ Deserved Better Than ThisParamount has canceled Star Trek: Starfleet Academy after two seasons as the studio shifts from streaming toward theatrical releases, marking the first decade without active Star Trek television production. The cancellation reflects low Nielsen ratings, corporate cost-cutting amid major mergers, and management's pivot toward mainstream content targeting middle America. Though various factors contributed, critics argue the show deserved more time to develop its characters and find its audience.Read more →
Engadget...Apple could give Siri a standalone app and an 'Ask Siri' button in iOS 27Apple is launching a major Siri overhaul featuring a standalone app and new conversational "Ask Siri" interface that supports natural language requests via text or voice. The redesigned assistant will leverage personal data from messages, emails, and notes to complete requests, execute app tasks, access news, and perform web searches, directly competing with other AI chatbots. The update is expected in iOS 27 and macOS 27.Read more →
CNET...OpenAI's Once Viral Sora AI Video App Is Being DiscontinuedOpenAI is discontinuing Sora, its AI video app, and ending a $1 billion Disney licensing deal as the company pivots from consumer generative media to enterprise-focused AI tools. This decision reflects declining industry confidence in consumer AI video generation and marks a strategic shift toward business-oriented applications like coding and enterprise platforms.Read more →
CNET...Pokemon Champions Release Date: When Does the New Competitive Standard Come Out?Pokemon Champions, a free-to-play competitive battling game launching April 8 on Nintendo Switch, establishes a unified format for professional play at the 2026 World Championships. The game introduces new Mega Evolution abilities from Pokemon Legends: Z-A that could reshape the competitive meta. Free players face significant roster limitations without a Pokemon Home subscription, creating a substantial barrier to competitive engagement.Read more →
Gizmodo...Arm Lends a Hand, Launches In-House AI Chip With Meta as Its First CustomerArm unveiled its first in-house chipset, the Arm AGI CPU, designed for AI infrastructure in data centers, with Meta and companies like OpenAI and Cloudflare set to receive units. The move marks a significant shift from Arm's traditional licensing model to direct manufacturing and aims to address CPU production bottlenecks constraining AI infrastructure growth. This timely entry into CPU manufacturing comes as Intel and AMD face production delays amid accelerating demand for AI infrastructure.Read more →
The Verge...The man who coined Metaverse now says Meta's glasses are creepyA former Magic Leap executive reassesses their earlier conviction that wearable AR/VR devices would replace smartphones, concluding that handheld devices will likely remain dominant because consumers prefer them over face-mounted technology. Despite significant technological advancement and investment in wearable AR/VR, the experience of wearing devices on the face has proven less appealing to users than traditional handheld interfaces. This reflects the persistent challenge facing the AR/VR industry in achieving mainstream adoption.Read more →
CNET...Best Budget Laptops I've Tested: Cheap Computers for Every UseCNET provides expert recommendations for budget laptops under $1,000, featuring diverse options including Apple's MacBook Neo, Microsoft's Surface Laptop 7, and Acer's Aspire AI models optimized for various use cases. The article emphasizes key purchasing considerations such as processor choice, memory capacity, storage type, battery life, and display quality to help consumers find capable laptops that balance performance with affordability.Read more →
CNET...Today's NYT Connections: Sports Edition Hints and Answers for March 25, #548The New York Times Connections: Sports Edition puzzle features themed word groupings including table games, Nike shoe models, Giants baseball legends, and NBA-related terms. Published by The Athletic and available through their app and online, the puzzle challenges players to identify four word categories of varying difficulty levels. Today's puzzle solutions include air hockey, foosball, pool and snooker for the yellow group, and corresponding answers across blue, green, and purple categories.Read more →
CNET...How Gamers Can Sneak Some Playtime Into Their Gym WorkoutsGaming during gym workouts can be achieved through cloud streaming services or handheld gaming devices, with various equipment options available depending on preference. The article recommends stationary bikes, treadmill walks, and weightlifting rest periods as optimal times for gaming, providing practical guidance on integrating entertainment with exercise. This approach helps maintain workout motivation and efficiently uses downtime during physical training sessions.Read more →
Engadget...Zoox is bringing its robotaxi to new cities and expanding coverage in Las Vegas and San FranciscoZoox has expanded its robotaxi service to Austin and Miami, with additional coverage increases in San Francisco and Las Vegas. Initial rides are available to employees and friends, with expanded pickup locations at major Las Vegas venues including hotels on the Strip and convention centers. The company is introducing new features including distinctive identification signals and Bluetooth audio streaming to enhance the user experience.Read more →
TechCrunch...Arm is releasing the first in-house chip in its 35-year historyArm Holdings is manufacturing its own chips for the first time in 36 years, launching the Arm AGI CPU for AI data center inference in partnership with Meta. This marks a historic shift from their licensing-only business model, as the company now directly competes with former partners like Nvidia and Apple. The CPU addresses critical infrastructure demands for managing distributed AI systems at scale.Read more →
Gizmodo...Too Many Typos? Update Your iPhone to iOS 26.4 ASAP to Fix Its Broken KeyboardApple released iOS 26.4 with a keyboard accuracy improvement fix addressing long-standing issues with typos and input lag that have affected iPhone users. The update reduces lag between letter taps when typing quickly and improves autocorrect accuracy. Early testing indicates the fix successfully resolves the keyboard problems documented in previous iOS versions.Read more →
CNET...Spotify's New SongDNA Feature Tells You How a Song Was MadeSpotify has launched SongDNA, a feature showing all creators involved in a song including producers, engineers, and samples used. This helps fans discover music through artist connections and gives recognition to the often-overlooked collaborators behind popular tracks.Read more →
Gizmodo...Finally, Some Good News in the Fight Against Lyme DiseasePfizer and Valneva's Lyme disease vaccine candidate PF-07307405 demonstrated over 70% efficacy in preventing Lyme infection in a Phase III trial of nearly 10,000 participants across North America and Europe. The vaccine works by training the body to produce antibodies that eliminate bacteria within ticks before transmission. The companies plan to submit the vaccine for FDA approval, potentially providing significant protection against a disease that is becoming increasingly common.Read more →
Gizmodo...Holy Crap, the ‘Spider-Man: Brand New Day’ Trailer Has Been Viewed a Billion TimesSpider-Man: Brand New Day's trailer has become the first film trailer to reach one billion views, achieving this milestone in just four days with 1.1 billion total views. The trailer also set a new record for most-viewed trailer in a 24-hour period with 718.6 million views, surpassing previous records held by Deadpool & Wolverine and Grand Theft Auto VI. The unprecedented viewership indicates strong audience anticipation and suggests significant box office potential for the film's July 31 release.Read more →
Gizmodo...That McDonald’s Robot Video Isn’t What It Looks LikeA viral video falsely suggested McDonald's was deploying humanoid robots to replace workers, but the company clarified the robots were only a temporary display at a Shanghai Science and Technology Museum location from March 14-17 with no operational function. The incident highlights growing interest in restaurant automation as robotics companies like Figure continue developing advanced robotic systems.Read more →
TechCrunch...OpenAI’s plans to make ChatGPT more like Amazon aren’t going so wellOpenAI is scaling back its Instant Checkout feature in ChatGPT after users showed minimal interest in making direct purchases through the chatbot. The company is pivoting to focus on product discovery and comparison capabilities, allowing merchants to handle their own checkout experiences while ChatGPT serves as a research and research tool for consumers.Read more →
Engadget...AccuWeather is now available inside ChatGPTAccuWeather has launched a ChatGPT app that integrates weather data directly into the ChatGPT interface, eliminating the need to switch between applications. Users can query weather conditions using natural language questions, with access to features like MinuteCast and RealFeel metrics. This integration streamlines weather forecasting for those already using ChatGPT for other tasks.Read more →
Engadget...Splitgate's 1047 Games is starting work on a Titanfall-style movement shooter1047 Games announced a new movement-based shooter in development, drawing inspiration from Titanfall and Black Ops 3. The project is in early stages with playtesting signups available, though a full release timeline remains distant as the studio prioritizes Splitgate: Arena Reloaded's ongoing development.Read more →
The Verge...Apple launches iOS 26.4 with AI playlists, purchase sharing, and moreApple Music now features AI-powered playlist generation that allows users to create custom playlists by describing their desired music in natural language. This capability streamlines the playlist creation process and provides users with personalized music curation based on simple text descriptions.Read more →
TechCrunch...Google TV’s new Gemini features keep fans updated on sports teams and moreGoogle unveiled three Gemini-powered features for Google TV, including AI-powered visual responses for live scores and video tutorials, deep dives into complex topics with narrated visual explanations, and sports briefs summarizing key game moments. These additions enhance the streaming experience by providing more interactive and contextual information directly within the TV interface, with rollout beginning in the U.S. and Canada.Read more →
Gizmodo...Tether, the World’s Biggest Stablecoin, Is Finally Getting Its First Full AuditTether has announced its first comprehensive audit by a Big Four accounting firm following decades of skepticism over whether its $184 billion USDT stablecoin is fully reserve-backed. The audit will examine the company's digital assets, traditional holdings, and tokenized liabilities as part of a broader transparency initiative addressing regulatory compliance and sanctions evasion concerns. This represents a significant milestone for the crypto industry, as Tether's stability is critical infrastructure that many rely on daily.Read more →
Gizmodo...The Moon Has Far Less Water Than Previously Thought, Study SuggestsRecent imaging from NASA's ShadowCam found no detectable water ice in the Moon's permanently shadowed regions, challenging assumptions about abundant lunar water reserves critical to NASA's planned sustainable base. This discovery complicates lunar resource plans, though water may still exist at lower concentrations below current detection thresholds.Read more →
TechCrunch...OpenAI adds open source tools to help developers build for teen safetyOpenAI released open-source safety prompts and policies to help developers create AI applications safer for teenagers, addressing concerns around graphic violence, sexual content, harmful behaviors, and age-restricted services. The prompts are designed to be compatible with various AI models and can be adapted over time, providing developers with a standardized foundation for implementing teen-focused safety measures. The initiative builds on OpenAI's previous efforts including parental controls and Model Spec guidelines.Read more →
TechCrunch...Talat’s AI meeting notes stay on your machine, not in the cloudTalat is a privacy-focused Mac app that performs real-time meeting transcription and summarization entirely on local hardware without cloud data sharing. Created by developer Nick Payne, the app offers a one-time purchase model ($49 pre-release, $99 at 1.0) as an alternative to subscription-based competitors like Granola. It leverages Apple's Neural Engine and allows users to configure their own language models for enhanced flexibility and control over their data.Read more →
The Verge...The Lego Game Boy makes for a great gift, and it’s $10 off todayKohl's is currently offering the lowest price available for Lego's 421-piece Game Boy set, a brick recreation of Nintendo's iconic handheld console. This deal appeals to gaming enthusiasts and Lego collectors interested in retro gaming memorabilia.Read more →
Gizmodo...The Next ‘Gundam’ Movie Is Finally Coming StatesideThe Sorcery of Nymph Circe, the next Gundam film in the Hathaway's Flash series, will finally release in U.S. theaters on May 15, nearly four months after its January 30 Japanese debut. The film continues the Universal Century storyline 12 years after Char's Counterattack, following protagonist Hathaway Noa's revolutionary movement against the Earth Federation as leader of the Mafty terrorist group. The release features a Guns N' Roses collaboration with their classic track as the end credits theme, alongside SZA's opening theme.Read more →
Gizmodo...Peter Thiel’s Cowgorithm-Powered Cattle Collar Company Raises $220 MillionPeter Thiel's Founders Fund led a $220 million funding round for Halter, valuing the AI-powered livestock monitoring company at $2 billion, making it the largest venture capital raise by a New Zealand-founded company. Halter manufactures GPS-enabled, solar-powered collars that enable virtual fencing, health monitoring, and breeding cycle tracking on farms. The company is expanding from New Zealand into Australia and the US while operating on a subscription model charging $5-8 per cow monthly.Read more →
CNET...Apple Confirms It's Bringing Ads to Maps as Part of New Apple Business PlatformApple is launching Apple Business, a new advertising platform launching April 14 that enables businesses to purchase targeted ads across Maps, Mail, Wallet, and Siri, with Maps ads rolling out in the US and Canada this summer. The advertising system works similarly to Google Maps, allowing brands to purchase slots tied to search results. This expansion supports Apple's growing services business, which now generates over $100 billion annually.Read more →
Engadget...Three new Gemini features come to Google TVGoogle has announced three new Gemini-powered features for Google TV that enhance viewing with interactive content, including richer visual results for queries, customizable deep dives into topics of interest, and narrated sports briefs. These features aim to transform passive television watching into meaningful, interactive experiences by integrating AI-driven search and learning capabilities directly into the TV interface. The features are rolling out in phases across the US and Canada, with broader international expansion planned throughout 2026.Read more →
Engadget...Apple confirms ads are coming to Apple MapsApple is expanding its advertising platform into Apple Maps, enabling businesses to display ads in search results and a new Suggested Places feature launching this summer in the US and Canada. This initiative represents Apple's continued growth in its $100 billion+ Services business, which already includes advertising in the App Store and Apple News. The company maintains its privacy commitments by keeping ad interactions separate from user Apple Accounts and ensuring personal data remains on-device.Read more →
TechCrunch...BRK Capital raises $14.5M (so far) to invest in Black foundersBRK Capital's Fund II has closed $20 million CAD toward its $50 million CAD target, backing high-growth technology companies founded by Black entrepreneurs in Canada and select international markets. The fund targets check sizes between $250,000 to $1.5 million and frames performance-driven investing in overlooked founder markets as an arbitrage opportunity. With Fund I outperforming 75% of comparable funds, BRK Capital aims to complete Fund II's final close in December and deploy capital across 25 companies.Read more →
TechCrunch...BKR Capital raises $14.5M (so far) to invest in Black foundersCanada's BKR Capital closed $20 million CAD for its Fund II, targeting high-growth technology companies led by Black founders focused on future of work and global connectivity. The firm positions diverse founder investment as a financial arbitrage opportunity, arguing that overlooked markets and diverse experiences unlock outsized venture returns. Fund I has already outperformed 75% of comparable funds launched at the same time.Read more →
CNET...I Wish More Movies Made 3D-Printable Models Like Project Hail MaryProject Hail Mary released a downloadable 3D-printable spaceman model, engaging the maker community and demonstrating effective movie marketing. The availability of VFX-designed models as 3D-printable files appeals directly to creators and amplifies the film's promotional reach. This strategy's success suggests more studios should consider sharing digital assets with enthusiast audiences.Read more →
Gizmodo...Who Was the Worst Targaryen to Rule Westeros?Unsurprisingly, there are a lot of candidates among the House of the Dragon.Read more →
Engadget...For All Mankind is returning for a sixth and final seasonApple TV's sci-fi series For All Mankind has been renewed for a sixth and final season, with creators planning it as the natural conclusion to their story rather than a cancellation. The upcoming season will bring the alt-history narrative from the 2010s into the modern day, allowing the show to reach its intended endpoint.Read more →
CNET...I 'Vibe Designed' a Website in Minutes Using Google Labs' Stitch ToolGoogle announced Stitch, an AI-powered design platform that enables users to create mobile apps and websites using natural language descriptions without traditional design expertise. The platform uses Gemini models, supports text and voice input, and provides real-time design critiques with collaborative editing capabilities. While still in beta, Stitch demonstrates significant potential to streamline UI/UX development and democratize design creation for non-designers.Read more →
TechCrunch...Crunchyroll confirms data breach after hacker claims unauthorized accessCrunchyroll confirmed a data breach involving customer service ticket information after a third-party vendor handling its support operations was compromised. A threat actor gained unauthorized access to the company's Zendesk support system, internal communications, and customer support data through a compromised Telus Digital employee until early 2025. The anime streaming service serving 15 million subscribers worldwide is investigating the incident and has not identified evidence of ongoing unauthorized access.Read more →
TechCrunch...Doss raises $55M for AI inventory management that plugs into ERPDoss, an AI-native inventory management startup, raised $55 million in Series B funding led by Madrona and Premji Invest. Rather than competing with AI ERP startups, Doss pivoted to provide specialized AI-powered inventory and supply chain management that integrates with existing accounting systems. The funding round reflects investor confidence in specialized, interoperable AI enterprise solutions for mid-market consumer brands.Read more →
The Verge...The Apple Watch SE 3 is even easier to recommend at $50 offThe Apple Watch SE 3 is on sale at record-low prices while offering premium features like always-on displays, S10 chip, gesture controls, and 5G connectivity that were previously exclusive to higher-end models. This positions the SE as an exceptional value option for consumers seeking essential smartwatch functionality without the cost of premium variants.Read more →
Engadget...iOS 26.4 is here, with Playlist Playground and new emojiiOS and iPadOS 26.4 introduces Playlist Playground, an AI-powered music generator that creates song lists based on user prompts for mood, activities, or feelings, similar to Spotify's 2024 offering. The update also adds an ambient music widget, Bandsintown concert integration for concert listings, and new emoji characters including Bigfoot and fight cloud.Read more →
The Verge...ChatGPT and Gemini are fighting to be the AI bot that sells you stuffGoogle and OpenAI are expanding AI-assisted shopping capabilities, with Google partnering with Gap Inc to enable direct purchases through Gemini and OpenAI enhancing product comparison features in ChatGPT. While retailers view AI shopping as a key growth opportunity, adoption concerns persist—OpenAI abandoned its direct checkout feature after disappointing sales performance. These developments reflect the broader trend of retailers leveraging AI assistants as new discovery and purchase channels beyond traditional search.Read more →
Engadget...Bandsintown integration for concerts is coming to Apple MusicApple Music now integrates Bandsintown's concert listings in iOS 26.4, enabling users to discover and purchase tickets for live performances directly within the app. Artists can automatically display tour dates from their Bandsintown dashboard, with updates appearing within 48 hours. The new Concerts tab in Search allows filtering by genre, location, and date, plus push notifications for followed artists' upcoming shows.Read more →
Gizmodo...Amazon Says Its Cloud Facilities Were Disrupted Again Due to War in IranAWS experienced its second data center disruption in the Middle East this month due to drone strikes from Iranian forces, affecting facilities in Bahrain and the United Arab Emirates with structural and power damage. The attacks mark the first time American tech infrastructure has been militarily targeted, with Iranian forces confirming intentional targeting and naming additional companies including Microsoft, Google, and Oracle as legitimate targets. The escalating regional conflict has prompted AWS to advise customers to migrate workloads and created new operational risks for tech infrastructure in the region.Read more →
The Verge...Welp, I bought an iPhone againA tech journalist tested multiple Android flagship phones over several months to evaluate switching from iPhone but ultimately purchased an iPhone 17, finding that despite Android's superior operating system and features, iOS's significantly better app ecosystem remains the decisive factor. The author concluded that smartphones function primarily as app machines, and iPhone's superior app quality and availability outweigh Android's software advantages.Read more →
TechCrunch...Apple Music partners with Ticketmaster to power its concert discovery featureApple Music partnered with Ticketmaster to integrate concert discovery, enabling users to find and purchase live music event tickets based on their listening habits. The integration features a dedicated Concerts Tab, artist pages showing tour information, and personalized push notifications for nearby concerts. This expansion positions Apple Music to compete more directly with Spotify's SeatGeek partnership for ticket discovery.Read more →
Gizmodo...This Chip Could Fix the Fukushima Plant’s Wi-Fi ProblemResearchers have developed a wireless receiver chip that withstands 500 kilograys of radiation, 1,000 times more resistant than conventional semiconductors. The breakthrough enables wireless monitoring systems for nuclear plant decommissioning operations, particularly at Fukushima, replacing vulnerable cable infrastructure and improving safety for remote robotic systems.Read more →
Engadget...Pokémon Champions will hit Switch and Switch 2 on April 8Pokémon Champions launches April 8 on Nintendo Switch and Switch 2, with a mobile version offering cross-play support. The competitive turn-based battle game features team-building, ranked modes, and a victory point progression system that unlocks character customization and permanent Pokémon recruitment.Read more →
CNET...iPhone Air vs. Galaxy S25 Edge: Thin Phone BattleThe iPhone Air ($999) and Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge ($1,100) are ultra-thin smartphones that measure 5.6-5.8mm thick, offering sleek designs at the cost of reduced battery capacity and limited camera features compared to standard models. Both phones deliver all-day battery life with latest processors and adaptive 120Hz displays, but require nightly charging due to their slimmer battery compartments. The choice between them hinges on whether consumers prioritize design aesthetics over comprehensive camera systems and extended battery endurance.Read more →
Gizmodo...5 Questions We Need Answered in the ‘Paradise’ Season 2 FinaleParadise season two's finale approaches with one episode remaining before the series continues into a third and final season. The article explores major unresolved mysteries including the identity of 'Alex,' which may involve time travel or multiverse elements, and suggests Sinatra has found a way to alter her past and possibly resurrect her son Dylan as the character Link. The bunker simultaneously faces critical system collapse while these revelations unfold.Read more →
The Verge...A BlackBerry you might actually want just landed on KickstarterThe Titan 2 Elite combines a physical BlackBerry-inspired keyboard with the modern Android 16 operating system. This device bridges the gap between nostalgic hardware enthusiasts and contemporary mobile functionality, appealing to users who prefer physical keyboards over touchscreen-only devices.Read more →
Engadget...The Punisher's one-off TV special hits Disney+ on May 12Disney+ is releasing a standalone Punisher special titled 'One Last Kill' on May 12, co-written by and starring Jon Bernthal. This marks the character's first theatrical film appearance and will lead into Daredevil: Born Again season two, expanding the Punisher's presence in the Marvel Universe.Read more →
Gizmodo...Elon Musk Will Have to Face the Music in Lawsuit Over DOGE’s Government OverreachA federal judge ruled that a lawsuit against the Department of Government Efficiency and Elon Musk can proceed, allowing claims that the agency exceeded its legal authority and that Musk violated constitutional requirements for Senate confirmation to move forward. The lawsuit, brought by nonprofits and states, alleges DOGE unlawfully cut federal funding, dismantled agencies, and fired workers. The ruling sets up further legal scrutiny of DOGE's operations as Musk and his companies face mounting legal challenges.Read more →
CNET...Free MLB.TV on T-Mobile Offer Returns for Opening Day, but You Have to Act SoonT-Mobile is offering eligible customers a free one-year MLB.TV subscription valued at $150 for out-of-market games during the 2026 baseball season, with claims available through the T-Life app from March 24-31. The season will debut an automated ball strike system powered by T-Mobile's 5G network, allowing players to challenge home-plate calls.Read more →
CNET...The iPhone 17 Pro Phones Far Outnumber Their Siblings, but the iPhone Air Has FansApple's iPhone Air achieved triple the adoption of its predecessor (6.8% vs 2.9% of iPhone 17 users), demonstrating strong consumer preference for thin design. However, Pro models still dominate at 86% of iPhone 17 sales, with adoption varying significantly by region. Apple's latest C1X modem has achieved performance parity with Qualcomm's X80 chip, marking a critical maturity point for in-house silicon.Read more →
Engadget...There's a new Payday game, this time in VRPayday: Aces High brings the popular heist franchise to VR, launching on Meta Quest and SteamVR later this year with four-player co-op gameplay. The game maintains the series' core heist mechanics where players plan and execute elaborate robberies while filling specialized roles such as planner, brawler, gadget specialist, and assassin. Developed by Fast Travel Games, the VR version features an expanding arsenal of weapons and gadgets with standard progression through successful heists.Read more →
Gizmodo...How Many Times Can You Clone a Clone? New Research Offers a Surprising AnswerJapanese researchers found a hard limit to serial cloning: successive generations of cloned mice accumulate genetic mutations that prevent viability beyond approximately the 58th generation, despite using trichostatin A to suppress mutations. Over 1,200 clones were successfully produced from a single donor, but structural variants accumulated faster than the compound could suppress. Sexual reproduction between late-generation clones can help filter out harmful mutations, suggesting a potential approach to extend the viability of future clones.Read more →
The Verge...Life is Strange: Reunion is a full-circle moment for its starsLife is Strange: Reunion reunites players with beloved characters Max and Chloe, reversing the original game's emotionally significant ending choice. The game approaches this return with care and respect for the series' emotional legacy, featuring authentic performances from returning voice actors that resonate with their personal experiences.Read more →
The Verge...Google’s Android Automotive is moving from the dashboard to the ‘brain’ of the carAndroid Automotive OS provides an open architecture for the non-safety critical components of software-defined vehicles, enabling manufacturers to leverage an established platform for infotainment and connectivity systems. This approach separates safety-critical functions from other vehicle systems, allowing greater flexibility and faster innovation in connected vehicle technology.Read more →
TechCrunch...Meet the former Apple designer building a new AI interface at HarkHark, a secretive AI lab founded by Brett Adcock, is developing integrated AI models and hardware designed to deliver seamless personal intelligence that listens, sees, and interacts in real time with persistent memory. The company aims to embed intelligence as a foundational layer across devices and interfaces rather than treating AI as an add-on feature. Led by former Apple designer Abidur Chowdhury and backed by $100 million in personal funding, the startup plans to release its first AI models this summer.Read more →
The Verge...Apple Maps will introduce ads this summerApple will soon allow businesses to buy advertisements in its Maps app. In an announcement on Tuesday, Apple says ads may appear at the top of your search results in Maps, as well as in a new "Suggested Places" list. They will arrive in-app in the US and Canada this summer. The company describes its […]Read more →
Engadget...Epic is laying off more than 1,000 workers, citing a downturn in Fortnite engagementEpic Games is laying off over 1000 employees due to declining Fortnite engagement and industry-wide challenges including slower growth and reduced consumer spending. The company is implementing cost cuts totaling over $500 million while refocusing on delivering consistent Fortnite seasonal content and accelerating developer tools for Unreal Engine 6.Read more →
Gizmodo...Oura’s Next Smart Ring Just Leaked a Year EarlyThe Oura Ring 5, expected to launch next year, will feature a subtle design refresh with new color options including a bronze-toned 'deep rose' and a rounder silhouette with a sharper curve. The company's recent acquisition of gesture recognition startup Doublepoint suggests the Ring 5 may introduce gesture control capabilities to the wearable, though battery life is expected to remain similar to the Ring 4.Read more →
CNET...Crunchyroll Responds to Claims of Data BreachCrunchyroll responded to cyberattack claims after alleged malware infiltration through third-party vendor Telus in mid-March, with unconfirmed reports suggesting exposure of customer billing information, email addresses, and IP addresses. The company stated that affected data is primarily limited to customer service ticket information and no evidence of ongoing unauthorized system access has been identified. Users are advised to reset passwords and enable two-factor authentication as a precaution.Read more →
Gizmodo...FDA Recalls Nearly 90,000 Children’s Ibuprofen Bottles Over ‘Gel-Like Mass’The FDA has recalled approximately 90,000 bottles of Taro Pharmaceuticals' Children's Ibuprofen Oral Suspension due to foreign contaminants found in the product manufactured by Strides Pharma Inc. in India. The Class II recall affects two specific lots with expiration dates of January 31, 2027, distributed nationwide for children ages 2-11. Parents should verify their products' lot codes (7261973A and 7261974A) to ensure they are not affected by this safety concern.Read more →
Gizmodo...‘Avatar: Fire and Ash’ Is Finally Coming Home Next WeekAvatar: Fire and Ash is releasing digitally on March 31 and physically in May, bringing the third installment to home viewers. The release includes over 3 hours of bonus content featuring behind-the-scenes documentaries, production insights, Na'vi language tutorials, and a tribute to late producer Jon Landau.Read more →
TechCrunch...Epic Games cuts 1,000 jobs, says Fortnite engagement is downEpic Games is laying off 1,000 employees due to declining Fortnite engagement and unsustainable spending, with CEO Tim Sweeney citing the need for major cost reductions totaling over $500 million. The company has increased in-game currency prices and will provide four months of severance with extended healthcare coverage to stabilize its financial position amid challenging market conditions.Read more →
The Verge...Pokémon Champions is coming to the Nintendo Switch on April 8thNintendo and The Pokémon Company announced that Pokémon Champions will launch on Nintendo Switch on April 8th, with a mobile version coming later in 2026. The game will become the primary platform for competitive Pokémon play, allowing players to battle with random pokémon or bring their own from other games like Scarlet and Violet through the Pokémon Home app. Switch 2 owners will receive a free graphical update on launch date.Read more →
TechCrunch...Flighty’s new update gives you real-time alerts about airport disturbancesFlighty has launched Airport Intelligence, a new feature providing real-time alerts about airport disruptions across 14,000 airports worldwide by translating complex aviation data into simple language for users. The feature leverages the same data used by pilots and airlines, including weather reports and safety advisories, to help travelers understand potential impacts on their journeys. The release addresses growing airport chaos caused by geopolitical tensions and operational shortages.Read more →
CNET...iPhone Owners, Do This Now to Secure Your Phone From 'DarkSword' HackersDarkSword is a sophisticated hacking toolkit that targets iPhone users through infected websites, enabling attackers to access sensitive data including messages, iCloud content, and crypto wallets without requiring phishing or suspicious app downloads. Originally targeting specific regions, the toolkit has been made publicly available on GitHub, significantly expanding the threat. Apple has released security updates in iOS 26.3 and later to address the vulnerability, but approximately one-fifth of iPhone users running older iOS versions remain at risk.Read more →
Engadget...Samsung's cheaper Mini LED TVs are now on saleSamsung introduced affordable Mini LED TVs starting at $400, featuring 10-bit panels and high refresh rates, while also launching premium Quantum Mini LED models with enhanced brightness and color accuracy. This expansion reflects the continued trend of Mini LED technology becoming more accessible and improving in quality across all price segments.Read more →
TechCrunch...Ads are coming to Apple Maps, as Apple expands its business offeringsApple is launching location-based advertising on Apple Maps starting summer 2026, allowing businesses with physical locations to target customers in the U.S. and Canada. The move expands Apple's advertising business while maintaining user privacy, with ads appearing once in search results and using auction-based pricing. This announcement coincides with Apple's consolidation of its business tools into a unified Apple Business offering that includes email, calendar, employee directory, and device management services.Read more →
The Verge...Meta’s reckoning over kids safety is in the hands of two juriesTwo juries are deliberating landmark cases against Meta—one alleging the company failed to protect children from predators on its platforms, another examining whether its products were designed to be addictive. Verdicts could exceed $2 billion in damages and potentially establish legal precedent for holding tech platforms accountable for child safety failures.Read more →
The Verge...Fortnite maker Epic is laying off over 1,000 workersEpic Games CEO Tim Sweeney announced layoffs due to declining Fortnite engagement, indicating the company is restructuring in response to reduced player activity. The job cuts reflect challenges in maintaining user interest in the competitive battle royale market. This decision highlights the pressure major gaming studios face to adapt as engagement metrics fluctuate across titles.Read more →
TechCrunch...Roku’s $3 Howdy subscription service launches on Prime VideoRoku has expanded its Howdy ad-free streaming service to Amazon Prime Video, marking its first availability outside the Roku ecosystem. The $3 service offers nearly 10,000 hours of content from major studios including Disney, Sony Pictures, Warner Bros. Discovery, and Lionsgate. This expansion broadens access to the complementary streaming option while leveraging Amazon's distribution platform to reach broader audiences.Read more →
The Verge...John Deere, Garmin, and Philips may have undermined military right to repairCompanies spent nearly $2 million lobbying on the annual defense policy bill, specifically targeting a right-to-repair provision. This reflects significant corporate effort to influence policy affecting device repair standards and consumer access to repairs. The lobbying campaign highlights ongoing tensions between manufacturers and right-to-repair advocates.Read more →
TechCrunch...FCC bans import of new consumer routers made overseas, citing security risksThe Federal Communications Commission has ordered a ban on importing new foreign-manufactured consumer routers, citing cybersecurity threats from Chinese hacking groups that have exploited vulnerabilities in these devices. The ban affects approximately 60% of the consumer router market, though existing routers remain unaffected and new devices may be exempted with approval from Defense or Homeland Security. The FCC stated the action is necessary to protect U.S. networks from intrusions, distributed denial-of-service attacks, and surveillance exploited through compromised router infrastructure.Read more →
Gizmodo...The Punisher’s Standalone Special Is Coming Very SoonMarvel Studios announced that Jon Bernthal's Punisher standalone special, titled 'One Last Kill,' will premiere on Disney+ on May 12, positioned as a bridge between Daredevil: Born Again season 2 and the upcoming Spider-Man: Brand New Day film. The special is set to feature the violent action Bernthal has promised, utilizing the same 'special presentation' format as Werewolf By Night. This timing strategically places the mature-content special between Marvel's television and film properties, showcasing the studio's expanded content strategy.Read more →
Gizmodo...Physicists Stretch, Blur, and Reverse Time’s Arrow in Wild Quantum EnginePhysicists at Los Alamos National Laboratory have developed a new quantum control protocol that can manipulate how the arrow of time emerges in quantum systems through measurement engines and feedback mechanisms. The protocol enables researchers to reshape quantum system evolution and potentially extract energy for applications like quantum batteries and quantum algorithms. While the apparatus remains theoretical, researchers plan to experimentally demonstrate the protocol using superconducting qubits to validate practical applications.Read more →
Gizmodo...Asus ROG’s Massive Swift OLED Gaming Monitor Epitomizes Excess in the Best WayThe Asus ROG Swift OLED (PG32UCDM) is a $1,300 gaming monitor featuring a proprietary BlackShield film designed to improve black levels in bright ambient conditions, but this premium price is difficult to justify as cheaper competitors like the Alienware AW2725Q ($650) deliver similar visual performance. While the 32-inch QD-OLED display offers excellent picture quality with 4K resolution, 240Hz refresh rate, and vibrant colors, the gamer-focused design with RGB lighting and large tripod stand does not provide sufficient practical advantages to warrant the significant cost premium.Read more →
CNET...The Best Cordless Vacuum I've Tested Is on Sale for Just $153The Eureka ReactiSense 440 cordless vacuum delivers premium cleaning performance at an unprecedented price point, scoring 97.53% on hardwood sand pickup and up to 98.53% on carpet while featuring intelligent suction adjustment and anti-tangle technology. Now on sale for $153, it undercuts premium competitors by half the price while achieving performance that surpasses more expensive models like the Shark Stratos.Read more →
CNET...Apple's Foldable iPhone Design and Timeline Come Into Focus as Leaks MountLeaked CAD renderings reveal Apple's foldable iPhone design as a book-style device with a wider, tablet-like aspect ratio when unfolded, matching previous leaks. The device is expected to be announced in September alongside the iPhone 18, though production may not begin until December due to supply chain constraints. Samsung Display has been selected as the exclusive supplier for the foldable OLED panels, with mass production expected to start in mid-2026.Read more →
CNET...Amnezia Has a New VPN Protocol to Stay a Step Ahead of CensorsAmnezia released AmneziaWG 2.0, a new VPN protocol designed to help users bypass government internet censorship through advanced obfuscation techniques. The protocol mimics legitimate network traffic to evade deep packet inspection, allowing users in heavily censored regions like Iran and Russia to access restricted content while remaining undetected.Read more →
Gizmodo...‘For All Mankind’ Will Return for a Sixth and Final SeasonApple TV has greenlit a sixth and final season for For All Mankind, following the launch of season five this week. The series will conclude by reaching the present-day 2020s, fulfilling the creators' original vision of bridging their alternate-history timeline to the present day.Read more →
Engadget...Akai just released a portable and relatively budget-friendly MPC samplerAkai released the MPC Sample, an affordable $400 portable sampler and groovebox featuring 16 velocity-sensitive pads, 32-voice polyphony, and comprehensive sampling and effects capabilities. The device delivers professional music production features in a compact, accessible form factor, making hardware-based beat production more widely available to producers.Read more →
The Verge...The MPC Sample is my new favorite portable beat makerThe Akai MPC Sample is a portable, affordable beat-making device that returns the MPC line to its sampling roots while offering modern features like time-stretching and multiple effect types. Priced at $399, it delivers an intuitive workflow and excellent velocity-sensitive pads, making it ideal for beginner producers, though it faces significant competition from similar devices in the portable music gear market.Read more →
The Verge...For All Mankind will end with season 6An Apple TV series has been renewed for an additional season, with the announcement arriving prior to the season 5 premiere. The early renewal demonstrates continued confidence in the show's viewership and impact on the streaming platform.Read more →
The Verge...Anthropic’s Claude Code and Cowork can control your computerAnthropic has updated Claude to perform tasks in its Code and Cowork AI tools autonomously by using your computer for you. The new feature can be used to automatically open files, use web browsers and apps, and run dev tools "with no setup required," even when you're away from your computer, according to Anthropic's announcement. […]Read more →
CNET...Spring Cleaning Your Tech: How to Recycle Old Computers for FreeMajor retailers like Best Buy and Staples offer free electronics recycling programs where you can drop off old computers, printers, and other tech devices without cost. Before recycling, it's essential to perform a proper data wipe to protect personal information. These recycling initiatives help keep electronic waste out of landfills while freeing up storage space in your home.Read more →
The Verge...Ayaneo says selling its Windows gaming handheld 'is no longer sustainable'Ayaneo is suspending preorders for its $1,999 Next 2 gaming handheld due to the skyrocketing price of digital storage. In a post on Monday, Ayaneo says the overall cost to build its Windows handheld now nearly doubles the price it originally set, making it "unsustainable" to continue selling. "Even before the launch of NEXT 2, […]Read more →
Engadget...Ultrahuman opens US pre-orders for Ring ProFollowing resolution of a patent dispute with rival Oura, Ultrahuman's Ring Pro smart ring is now available for pre-orders in the US after being previously banned from the market. The device offers up to 15 days of battery life and is launching with significant early-bird discounts. This regulatory clearance allows Ultrahuman to compete in the increasingly patent-contentious smart ring sector.Read more →
Gizmodo...Updates From ‘The Mandalorian and Grogu’, and MoreThis entertainment news roundup covers updates on multiple upcoming film and television projects, including Jennifer's Body 2 in development, Fallout season 3 expanding to Colorado, and Daredevil: Born Again season 2 premiere details. Major streaming platforms and studios continue investing in sequels, reboots, and expansions of established franchises to drive subscriber engagement.Read more →
The Verge...Nuki adds Apple Home Key to its smart lockThe Keypad NFC 2 smart lock now supports the Aliro digital key standard, enabling tap-to-unlock functionality using Apple and Samsung digital keys. This support brings modern digital key authentication to retrofit locks, expanding compatibility with major smartphone platforms.Read more →
TechCrunch...Mirage raises $75M to continue building models for its AI video editing app CaptionsMirage, formerly known as Captions, has secured $75 million in growth financing to expand its AI-powered video creation platform. The company has repositioned itself as an AI lab developing specialized models for video editing, pacing, and accent-preserving audio generation, while transitioning to a freemium model to compete with CapCut and Meta's Edits. The funding will support expansion into high-growth Asian markets and integration of its web-based marketing suite with its mobile editing platform to target small businesses.Read more →
The Verge...The Hisense U7SG is a great midrange TV you shouldn’t buy yetThe Hisense U7SG is a high-performance midrange mini-LED TV that excels in brightness (reaching 3,000 nits), anti-reflection screen quality, and gaming capabilities (4K/165Hz with FreeSync support). It offers comprehensive HDR support and runs Google TV, making it an excellent choice for bright rooms. However, the review recommends waiting a few months for price drops, as Hisense TVs typically see significant discounts shortly after launch.Read more →
The Verge...Zoox is bringing its robotaxis to Austin and MiamiZoox is stretching out its legs. The Amazon-owned robotaxi today announced that it's gearing up to expand its service in San Francisco and Las Vegas, while also eyeing two additional cities - Austin and Miami - for future service. Zoox, which is one of the few companies to use a purpose-built autonomous vehicle without traditional […]Read more →
TechCrunch...TikTok ads are about to get a tad more disruptiveTikTok has introduced new premium advertising formats including Logo Takeover, Prime Time, and Top Reach designed to maximize brand visibility and capture user attention from the moment they open the app. These formats enable brands to co-brand with TikTok, run sequential ads during high-activity periods, and reach maximum daily audiences through prime placements. The platform has also expanded its Pulse suite with Mentions and Tastemakers tools to align advertisements with cultural moments and influential creators.Read more →
TechCrunch...Spotify’s new SongDNA feature maps how your favorite songs are connectedSpotify has launched SongDNA, a new feature for Premium subscribers that enables deeper exploration of music by showing connections between artists, samples, covers, and collaborators. The feature, built on data from the acquired WhoSampled database, aims to enhance music discovery while providing greater recognition to songwriters, producers, and other contributors. The rollout is currently in beta on iOS and Android, with full availability expected by April 2026.Read more →
TechCrunch...Snapchat’s new ‘AI Clips’ Lens format turns photos into five-second videosSnapchat introduced AI Clips, an AI-powered Lens format that converts single photos into five-second videos created by Snapchat developers. The feature is available to Lens+ subscribers ($8.99/month) and allows creators to monetize their Lenses through Snapchat's developer payout program. This distinguishes Snapchat by combining closed-prompt AI video generation with native distribution and monetization capabilities.Read more →
TechCrunch...Zoox brings its robotaxis to Austin and MiamiZoox is expanding its autonomous robotaxi services to Austin and Miami while scaling existing operations in San Francisco and Las Vegas. The company is pursuing federal safety exemptions from the NHTSA to transition from free rides to paid commercial services, with a partnership with Uber in Las Vegas pending regulatory approval. These developments build on nearly two million autonomous miles driven and over 350,000 riders served to date.Read more →
TechCrunch...Cauldron Ferm has turned microbes into nonstop assembly linesCauldron Ferm raised $13.25 million in Series A2 funding to scale its continuous fermentation technology, which produces proteins like whey from microbes more efficiently and cost-effectively than traditional batch processes. The company's hyper fermentation approach optimizes microbial productivity and can integrate with existing fermentation infrastructure, with whey protein immediately applicable to current supply chains. With potential to produce 60 percent of global economic inputs through biology, the company plans to expand beyond proteins into other biologically-derived products.Read more →
TechCrunch...Pinterest launches a new feature to promote a PinPinterest launched 'Promote a Pin,' a simplified advertising feature that enables individuals and small businesses to boost content reach without designing complex campaigns. The feature leverages Pinterest's 619 million users and 80 billion monthly searches to connect businesses with high-intent audiences, using the company's Taste Graph system for targeted reach.Read more →
Engadget...Spotify's SongDNA can tell you all about the track you're listening toSpotify has launched SongDNA, a feature that reveals the creative teams, samples, and influences behind songs to provide transparency in music creation. This tool enables fans to discover new artists and understand how tracks connect through collaborators and musical lineage, while giving recognition to producers, writers, and all contributors involved in the creative process.Read more →
CNET...Zoox Expands Service and Brings Its Robotaxi to Two New CitiesZoox is expanding its autonomous ride-hailing service across multiple cities, more than doubling its service area in Las Vegas and quadrupling coverage in San Francisco, while beginning deployments in Miami and Austin. The Amazon-owned company has driven nearly 2 million autonomous miles and transported over 350,000 riders to date, positioning itself as a competitor to Waymo with its uniquely designed purpose-built robotaxis. The expansion marks a significant scaling effort as Zoox works toward commercial viability and regulatory approval for charging riders.Read more →
CNET...Ultrahuman, Oura's Biggest Rival, Returns to the US With Its New Ring ProUltrahuman has re-entered the US smart ring market with its new Ring Pro following resolution of a patent dispute with Oura, offering 15 days of battery life and no subscription fees for core health metrics. The company positions itself as a comprehensive health platform competitor with expanded offerings including glucose monitoring, AFib detection, and blood testing services beyond its wearable devices.Read more →
CNET...Everything You Need to Know About the New Firefox Browser VPNMozilla is launching a free VPN service integrated directly into Firefox browser, offering users 50GB of monthly data to mask their IP address and location. The service will initially roll out in the US, UK, France, and Germany with Firefox version 149. However, the free VPN only protects browser traffic through Firefox, limiting its effectiveness compared to standalone VPN solutions for protecting overall system privacy.Read more →
Engadget...The Morning After: WWDC 2026 is happening June 8thApple's Worldwide Developers Conference will take place June 8-12, with CEO Tim Cook delivering the keynote on June 8. The event will showcase new operating systems including iOS 27, macOS 27, and visionOS 27, with expected major upgrades to Apple Intelligence and a significant Siri overhaul.Read more →
Engadget...Snapchat users sent 'nearly' 2 trillion snaps in 2025Snapchat users generated close to 2 trillion snaps in 2025, averaging over 11 snaps per user daily, demonstrating robust engagement on the platform. This milestone, equating to 63,000 snaps per second, reflects the platform's continued ability to drive frequent user interactions and social connection despite past growth challenges.Read more →
CNET...I Only Listened to AI Music for a Week. It Was Terrible, but Not for the Reason You ThinkAn AI journalist spent a week listening exclusively to AI-generated music, finding that despite technological advances, AI songs lack the emotional depth and cultural significance of human-created music. The experiment highlights concerns about AI eroding human creativity as AI-generated content floods streaming platforms, with record labels already suing companies like Suno and Udio. The experience underscores how AI cannot replicate the personal memories and artistic individuality that define meaningful music consumption.Read more →
TechCrunch...Agile Robots becomes the latest robotics company to partner with Google DeepMindAgile Robots has partnered with Google DeepMind to integrate Gemini Robotics foundation models into its industrial robots across manufacturing, automotive, data centers, and logistics. The companies will collaborate to test and deploy autonomous solutions while robot-collected data improves the underlying AI models.Read more →
CNET...'Daredevil: Born Again' Season 2: When to Watch the Premiere on Disney PlusMarvel and Disney Plus are releasing Daredevil: Born Again season 2 this week, continuing the story where season 1 ended with Kingpin seizing control of New York City. Jessica Jones returns to join Matt Murdock in his battle against Wilson Fisk, delivering an intense showdown with action-heavy storytelling. The season premieres Tuesday at 9 p.m. ET on Disney Plus with remaining episodes rolling out weekly.Read more →
Gizmodo...The Live-Action ‘Moana’ Really Thought About the Maui Wig, Despite It Looking Like ThatDwayne Johnson underwent extensive prosthetic transformation for Disney's live-action Moana remake, requiring a 40-pound bodysuit and a specially engineered 7-pound wig that took approximately two and a half hours to apply daily. The production chose practical prosthetics over pure visual effects to maintain emotional authenticity and allow for genuine physical performance. The decision to use real prosthetics provided a more tactile and emotionally resonant result compared to alternative visual effects approaches.Read more →
The Verge...Nintendo cuts Switch 2 production amid weakening console salesNintendo will produce fewer Switch 2 units than it previously projected in response to weakening demand for the console in the US, Bloomberg reports. Four million units of Nintendo's flagship device are expected to be made this quarter instead of the six million it had originally planned, according to unnamed sources cited by the publication, […]Read more →
Gizmodo...The ‘Mandalorian and Grogu’ Hot Toys Figures Want You to Know Pedro Pascal Is Under That HelmetHot Toys has unveiled a line of premium collectible figures for the upcoming Mandalorian and Grogu movie, featuring highly detailed Din Djarin models with Pedro Pascal's likeness, Grogu figures, and an Anzellan droidsmith character. The figures, ranging from $240 to $375, are available for pre-order from Sideshow Collectibles with availability expected in mid-to-late 2026.Read more →
CNET...This Common Cooking Mistake Could Be Adding Microplastic to Your FoodReheating leftovers in plastic containers releases microplastics and harmful chemicals linked to serious health risks including infertility and cancer. Experts recommend using glass, ceramic, stainless steel, or aluminum containers instead, as most takeout containers are not heat-safe despite marketing claims. Stovetop or oven reheating also provides better food quality and safety than microwaving in plastic vessels.Read more →
CNET...You're Probably Using Too Much Detergent. An Expert Explains Why That's BadA laundry expert identifies seven common mistakes that damage clothing and reduce garment lifespan, including improper sorting, overusing detergent, using bleach, and ignoring care labels. Proper washing temperatures, machine maintenance, and following fabric care instructions can significantly extend clothing durability and preserve quality.Read more →
CNET...The Best Whitening Toothpaste of 2026, Recommended by DentistsCNET reviews the best whitening toothpastes based on dentist recommendations, with Colgate Optic White Pro Series featuring the strongest 5% hydrogen peroxide formula identified as the top pick. Different products are recommended for specific needs including sensitive teeth, daily use, and natural ingredients, with most experts advising against continuous long-term use to prevent enamel damage.Read more →
Gizmodo...Here Are Five Great Deals to Not Miss Dreame’s Spring Sale, Vacuums and Hair Dryers IncludedDreame's Spring Sale (March 25-31) features five innovative home cleaning products, including compact robot vacuum-mop combos, cordless vacuums, and a travel-ready hair dryer, with significant discounts. The product lineup demonstrates advanced engineering that solves key consumer frustrations like fitting under furniture and effective corner cleaning while maintaining premium performance at accessible price points.Read more →
CNET...Best Cheap Phone of 2026: You Don’t Need to Pay a Lot for Your Next PhoneCNET provides a comprehensive guide to affordable smartphones in 2026, featuring recommendations across various price points from budget options like the Samsung Galaxy A17 5G at $200 to mid-range choices like the Google Pixel 10A at $499. The article emphasizes key purchasing factors such as software support longevity, camera quality, and ecosystem compatibility, offering detailed comparisons to help consumers make informed decisions based on their specific needs and budget constraints.Read more →
CNET...Good Espresso Requires Precision. Here's How Much Coffee Goes in Every ShotA guide to perfecting home espresso demonstrates that proper technique and strategic equipment investments matter more than expensive machinery. Key practices include maintaining fine grind size, using a 1:2 coffee-to-water ratio, and properly tamping the puck with firm, even pressure to achieve quality shots with balanced flavor and mouthfeel.Read more →
CNET...vampirNetflix: 23 of the Best Fantasy TV Shows to Stream Right NowNetflix offers an extensive library of fantasy TV shows spanning multiple subgenres, including monster-hunting action, murder mysteries, and dystopian adventures. CNET has compiled a guide to help viewers navigate the platform's fantasy content and discover shows like The Witcher and other compelling options.Read more →
CNET...Want a Free Program to Replace Microsoft 365? Try This OneThe author switched from Microsoft 365 to LibreOffice, a free, open-source office suite, to reduce costs while maintaining core productivity functionality. LibreOffice offers enhanced privacy, extensive customization through extensions, and cross-platform desktop support, but lacks native cloud integration and mobile apps. The software is best suited for budget-conscious individuals and personal use, rather than collaborative work environments requiring real-time document sharing.Read more →
Gizmodo...Figure AI Founder and iPhone Air Designer Team Up on AI Mystery ProductSerial entrepreneur Brett Adcock has launched Hark, an AI company recruiting top talent including ex-Apple designer Abidur Chowdhury to build a physical AI device combining foundation models, advanced hardware, and natural interfaces. The venture represents the latest ambitious attempt to create a successful consumer AI interface product, backed by serious computational resources and industry expertise amid previous market failures in the category.Read more →
TechCrunch...Ultrahuman ramps up U.S. push with Ring Pro as Oura tightens its gripUltrahuman secured U.S. regulatory approval for its Ring Pro smart ring, enabling the Bengaluru-based startup to re-enter the critical American market after import restrictions caused approximately $50 million in lost sales. The company faces intense competition from Oura, which expanded to 85% U.S. market share during Ultrahuman's absence, while both competitors now vie for dominance in India's emerging market. Ultrahuman's U.S. rollout begins May 15 with pricing from $349 to $399, targeting recovery in a market segment projected to grow substantially.Read more →
Gizmodo...‘I Don’t Use AI Much’: Apple Co-Founder Expresses Skepticism AI Can Replace HumansApple co-founder Steve Wozniak expressed skepticism about artificial intelligence capabilities in a CNN interview, noting that current AI systems produce technically accurate but emotionally disconnected responses lacking human nuance. While acknowledging that technology may surprise us, he emphasized that AI has not demonstrated the emotional awareness and lived human experience necessary to replace or fully understand human intelligence.Read more →
Engadget...Denon expands its multi-room speaker lineup with the Home 200, Home 400 and Home 600Denon introduced three new multi-room speakers—Home 200, Home 400, and Home 600—as Sonos alternatives with enhanced audio capabilities and improved aesthetic design. These speakers integrate with Denon's HEOS ecosystem supporting up to 64 devices across 32 zones, feature major music streaming services and Dolby Atmos support, and are priced competitively from $399 to $799.Read more →
TechCrunch...Delve halts demos, Insight Partners scrubs investment post amid ‘fake compliance’ allegationsA Y Combinator-backed compliance startup named Delve faces allegations from a whistleblower that it fabricated security and regulatory certifications for customers, including falsified evidence of board meetings and processes. In response to the scandal, Delve has disabled its demo booking feature and investors appear to be distancing themselves, with Insight Partners removing an article about its $32 million investment. The startup denies the allegations, claiming it operates as an automation platform providing templates and auditor access rather than issuing compliance reports.Read more →
TechCrunch...Insight Partners scrubs investment post about Delve amid ‘fake compliance’ allegationsDelve, a Y Combinator-backed compliance startup, faces allegations of fabricating certifications and compliance evidence for customers according to a whistleblower. The controversy prompted its investor Insight Partners to remove its $32 million investment announcement, signaling investor distancing. Delve denies the allegations, claiming it provides automation templates and connects customers with independent auditors.Read more →
Gizmodo...Polymarket Trader Who Won Big on Start of Iran War Betting Even Bigger on Impending CeasefireSuspicious betting activity was detected on prediction market Polymarket, with ten accounts collectively wagering $160,000 on an Iran ceasefire by month-end, including one account demonstrating a pattern of accurate geopolitical predictions that raised insider trading concerns. In response, Senators Adam Schiff and John Curtis introduced the 'Prediction Markets are Gambling Act' to regulate sports betting on prediction platforms, prompting Polymarket and Kalshi to announce new insider trading safeguards.Read more →
Gizmodo...U.S. Senators Introduce Legislation to Ban Sports Betting on Prediction MarketsBipartisan U.S. senators are introducing legislation to ban sports betting on prediction market platforms like Kalshi and Polymarket, addressing regulatory conflicts between federal CFTC oversight and state gaming laws. The bill comes amid rapid growth in sports betting (76.1% of Kalshi trading volume) and ongoing legal battles across multiple states over platform jurisdictional compliance.Read more →
CNET...Today's NYT Connections: Sports Edition Hints and Answers for March 24, #547The article covers today's Connections: Sports Edition puzzle game, providing hints and complete answers for players. The puzzle features four categories: bowling terminology, baseball pitches, famous athletes named Bruce, and power-related phrases.Read more →
CNET...Use AI to Find Your Next Rental Car With Turo's ChatGPT AppChatGPT now integrates with Turo, a peer-to-peer car rental marketplace, allowing users to search and book vehicles through natural language queries. Users can specify preferences like location, dates, vehicle type, and EV capability to receive tailored listings with pricing and ratings directly in the chat interface. This integration exemplifies the expanding role of AI assistants in automotive services and consumer purchasing decisions.Read more →
CNET...Elon Musk Unwraps $25 Billion Terafab Chip-Building ProjectElon Musk announced a partnership between Tesla, SpaceX, and xAI to construct Terafab, a $25 billion semiconductor manufacturing facility in Austin that would be the largest chip fab globally. The facility will produce advanced chips including AI5, AI6, and D3 variants at the 2-nanometer process, targeting supply constraints for AI applications, robotics, and satellites. This project represents a major expansion of US onshore semiconductor manufacturing capacity.Read more →
CNET...Shark Cordless Vacuums Are on Sale at Amazon. Here Are the 2 I RecommendAmazon's Big Spring Sale offers significant discounts on Shark cordless vacuums, with the Stratos reduced from $500 to $300 and the Clean & Empty from $350 to $250. The Stratos earned top marks in CNET testing for powerful suction across all floor types and features like dual-brush pet hair removal and 80-minute battery life. The Clean & Empty variant adds automatic dustbin emptying convenience for users seeking hands-free operation.Read more →
TechCrunch...Emil Michael, now a senior Pentagon official, says he’ll never forgive Uber investors who ousted him and KalanickThe U.S. Department of Defense is escalating a legal battle with Anthropic over the company's refusal to remove safety restrictions from its large language models for government use, arguing such limitations would handicap military operations while adversaries could access unrestricted versions through reverse-engineering. The dispute highlights the fundamental tension between AI companies' ethical guidelines and national security requirements in defense applications. A federal court hearing is scheduled to determine whether Anthropic's policy controls are compatible with military deployment.Read more →
TechCrunch...Bengaluru food delivery startup Swish raises $38M: its third round in 18 monthsSwish, a Bengaluru-based ultra-fast food delivery startup, raised $38 million in Series B funding at a $139 million post-money valuation. The 18-month-old company operates a full-stack model with owned kitchens and supply networks, delivering over 20,000 orders daily across hyperlocal clusters with established profitability. Its rapid growth and unit economics demonstrate viability in rapid-delivery services despite larger competitors scaling back similar experiments.Read more →
TechCrunch...Despite bitter rivalry, Kalshi, Polymarket CEOs back $35M predictions markets VC fundRival prediction market companies Polymarket and Kalshi are co-investing in 5(c) Capital, a new $35 million venture fund launched by former Kalshi employees to back prediction market infrastructure startups. The fund plans to invest in approximately 20 companies focused on market makers, index designers, and other prediction market infrastructure, signaling growing institutional capital flowing into the rapidly expanding prediction markets ecosystem.Read more →
Gizmodo...Gas Prices Are So High That DoorDash Is Providing ‘Emergency Relief’The Iran-Israel conflict and resulting closure of the Strait of Hormuz have caused global oil prices to spike, with U.S. gas prices rising over 30% in some states and approaching $4 per gallon nationally. In response to the affordability crisis, DoorDash has launched emergency relief programs offering drivers 10% cash back on gas purchases and weekly fuel subsidies of $5-15. The company estimates drivers could save $1-$1.50 per gallon through these initiatives, which will run until April 26.Read more →
The Verge...The US government just banned consumer routers made outside the USIn December, the Federal Communications Commission banned all future drones made in foreign countries from being imported into the United States, unless or until their maker gets an exemption. Now, the FCC has done the exact same for consumer networking gear, citing "an unacceptable risk to the national security of the United States and to […]Read more →
CNET...FCC Bans Foreign-Made Routers as a 'National Security Risk'The FCC has banned the sale of foreign-manufactured consumer Wi-Fi routers, citing national security concerns. The policy affects nearly all major router brands including TP-Link, Asus, and Netgear, though previously authorized models remain exempt from the ban. Manufacturers can apply for exemptions, but none have been granted approval as of the announcement.Read more →
Gizmodo...FCC Bans All New Routers Not Made in AmericaThe FCC has effectively banned the import and sale of foreign-made consumer routers unless they have prior FCC authorization, citing critical national security vulnerabilities exploited by state-sponsored cyber attackers. This policy forces router manufacturers to transition production to the United States and establish supply chain oversight. Popular brands like TP-Link and Netgear, currently manufactured in Southeast Asia, will need to seek conditional approval or relocate manufacturing domestically.Read more →
TechCrunch...Air Street becomes one of the largest solo VCs in Europe with $232M fundAir Street Capital has raised $232 million for Fund III to back early-stage AI companies across Europe and North America, bringing its total assets under management to $400 million. The raise positions the firm as one of Europe's largest solo venture capital funds. The firm has previously backed successful AI companies including Black Forest Labs and ElevenLabs, with notable exits including acquisitions by Amazon and SoftBank.Read more →
Engadget...The US bans all new foreign-made network routersThe FCC has designated consumer routers manufactured outside the US as security risks and will restrict new foreign-made models through the Covered List designation. Manufacturers can seek conditional approval only if they commit to shifting production to the United States. This policy shift, stemming from the White House's 2025 national security strategy, will significantly limit new router availability as most major brands currently manufacture overseas.Read more →
TechCrunch...Apple Maps may be about to get adsApple is introducing advertising to its Maps app later this year, allowing businesses to bid for placement when users search for restaurants, bars, and stores. This move aligns Apple with competitors like Google Maps and Bing Maps, creating a new revenue stream for the company.Read more →
Gizmodo...Mark Zuckerberg Is Building an AI CEO. Will He Lay Himself Off?Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg is developing a personal AI agent for executive decision-making as the company invests $135 billion in AI infrastructure. Simultaneously, Meta plans to reduce its workforce by approximately 20% in the coming weeks, with these layoffs positioned as cost-cutting measures driven by AI investments. This approach contrasts with the stated vision of providing every employee with an AI assistant, instead prioritizing infrastructure spending and workforce reduction to maintain AI competitiveness.Read more →
CNET...Wing Drone Deliveries Are Expanding to the San Francisco Bay Area This YearAlphabet's Wing drone delivery service is expanding to the San Francisco Bay Area in the coming months, marking its return to where it originated as a Google X Labs project. The company has established partnerships with Walmart for grocery and medicine delivery and DoorDash for food delivery, leveraging distributed warehouse locations throughout the region. With over 750,000 deliveries already completed across the US and Australia, Wing's autonomous drones can carry packages up to 5 pounds within a 6-mile radius in as little as 10 minutes.Read more →
Gizmodo...The Next PlayStation May Rely on AI More Than Any Console Before Before ItPlayStation's next-gen consoles will leverage AI-powered upscaling and frame generation to enhance graphics performance and frame rates. The PS5 Pro demonstrates these technologies through its new PSSR upscaler co-developed with AMD, while Mark Cerny confirmed frame generation will eventually come to PlayStation platforms.Read more →
Gizmodo...The Ending of ‘Project Hail Mary’ Teased a Surprising Offscreen SubplotProject Hail Mary's film adaptation includes a subtle detail absent from the novel: character Stratt's neck tattoo revealing she was imprisoned after the mission launched, later escaping through connections. Directors Phil Lord and Chris Miller confirmed this hidden subplot suggests Stratt continued her efforts to save Earth from prison and beyond. The Easter egg deepens the narrative scope by showing the consequences of her controversial actions during the crisis.Read more →
CNET...April's Pink Moon Won't Actually Be Pink, but It's Tied to EasterThe Pink Moon, the first full moon of spring 2026, will reach peak illumination on April 1 at 10:12 p.m. ET and will be visible across most of the US. In Christian tradition, this full moon (known as the Paschal Moon) determines the Easter date, with Easter falling on April 5, 2026.Read more →
CNET...These New Govee Outdoor Smart String Lights Let You Customize Each BulbGovee launched outdoor smart string lights featuring individual bulb customization with independent RGB LEDs, gradient effects, and app-based control through Google Home and Alexa integration. Each bulb includes 55 RGB LEDs, 240 lumens of brightness, over 100 preset scenes, and audio-reactive modes for synchronized color changes. With IP67 weather resistance and a 10+ year lifespan, these durable lights provide a reliable smart home solution for permanent outdoor installations.Read more →
The Verge...The kid-friendly Fitbit Ace is $100, which matches its best priceThe Fitbit Ace is a fitness tracker designed for children that encourages physical activity through step-based games and includes parental controls for monitoring. The device also offers optional calling and texting capabilities for communication.Read more →
CNET...These Are the Best Exercise Bikes for Achieving Your Fitness Goals in 2026CNET reviews popular exercise bike models including NordicTrack S24, Aviron Fit Bike, Echelon EX-5S-22, and Speediance VeloNix, comparing their features, price, performance and suitability for different user types. The comprehensive guide helps consumers select an exercise bike that matches their budget and fitness needs, from budget-friendly beginner options to premium AI-powered models.Read more →
CNET...Anthropic's Claude Can Now Control Your ComputerAnthropic launched a computer-control feature enabling Claude to autonomously perform tasks like file retrieval and scheduling using keyboard and mouse inputs, with safeguards against prompt injections. Available for Claude Pro and Claude Max subscribers on macOS, the feature requires user approval for each action but introduces security considerations around agentic AI systems and potential malicious exploitation. The research preview aims to improve the feature by gathering early user insights on performance and safety enhancements.Read more →
Engadget...Claude Code and Cowork can now use your computerAnthropic has updated Claude Code and Claude Cowork to perform computer tasks including opening files, browsing the web, and running developer tools. The feature prioritizes integrations with services like Google Workspace and Slack but can execute arbitrary tasks when connectors are unavailable, with user permission required. Initially available to Claude Pro and Max subscribers on macOS in research preview, the capability will be integrated with Anthropic's Dispatch feature for cross-device conversations.Read more →
Gizmodo...Meta Unfairly Targeted Older Workers During Layoffs Last Year, Lawsuit ClaimsMeta faces a lawsuit alleging age discrimination in its 2024 layoffs, with data showing workers over 50 were 2.5 times more likely to be terminated than younger employees. The lawsuit claims former Senior Director Nicolas Franchet was unfairly classified as a low performer despite previously receiving strong reviews and significant equity awards from CEO Mark Zuckerberg.Read more →
Gizmodo...Fallen Meteorite May Have Hit a Home in HoustonA meter-wide meteor traveling at 35,000 mph exploded over Houston, Texas, releasing energy equivalent to 26 tons of TNT and fragmenting above the city with over 150 eyewitnesses. A fragment from the meteor struck a residential home in north Houston, piercing through the roof and floor. NASA confirmed the event, highlighting the ongoing risk of significant space debris reaching populated areas.Read more →
CNET...Save $70 and Get a Free Game With Asus ROG Cetra Wireless Dual-Mode Gaming BudsThe Asus ROG Cetra True Wireless SpeedNova gaming earbuds are on sale for $150 (a $70 discount) at Amazon with a complimentary copy of Resident Evil Requiem. Featuring dual-mode connectivity for low-latency gaming on 2.4GHz or wireless convenience via Bluetooth, these earbuds provide adaptive noise canceling, 46-hour battery life, and broad platform compatibility including PC, Mac, iOS, Android, Nintendo Switch, and PlayStation.Read more →
TechCrunch...Someone has publicly leaked an exploit kit that can hack millions of iPhonesA leaked version of the DarkSword spyware tool published on GitHub enables attackers to easily target hundreds of millions of iPhone and iPad users running outdated iOS versions. The exploit is simple to implement with no technical expertise required, allowing threat actors to steal sensitive data including contacts, messages, call history, and stored passwords. Apple has released emergency updates and recommends immediate software updates, noting that devices running current iOS versions and Lockdown Mode are protected from these attacks.Read more →
TechCrunch...Zipline snaps up another $200M to fuel its drone delivery expansionAutonomous drone delivery startup Zipline has raised an additional $200 million, bringing its Series H round to $800 million with a $7.6 billion valuation. The company is experiencing rapid growth in its U.S. home delivery service, with order volumes and average order sizes increasing significantly, prompting expansion to at least four new U.S. states this year. Zipline plans to accelerate its global expansion in Africa, the U.S., and Japan using the funding.Read more →
Gizmodo...‘Players’ of an MMORPG for AI Agents Spontaneously Generated Their Own ReligionSpaceMolt, a text-based MMORPG with approximately 700 AI agents, has demonstrated unexpected emergent behavior where agents created an in-game religion called 'The Cult of the Signal' after misinterpreting a quest mechanic. The agents generated accompanying mythology that developers claim they did not anticipate, illustrating how complex multi-agent AI systems can produce novel interactions through emergent behavior.Read more →
Gizmodo...Marvel Studios Is Bringing ‘Wonder Man’ Back for Season 2Marvel Studios has announced that the acclaimed series Wonder Man is returning for season two, with Yahya Abdul-Mateen II and Ben Kingsley reprising their roles as Simon Williams and Trevor Slattery. The renewal follows season one's compelling conclusion that left room for future narrative exploration, particularly regarding Simon's journey as both an actor and superhero in the broader MCU.Read more →
The Verge...Kalshi says it will block politicians and athletes from trading in markets they’re tied toThe prediction market platform Kalshi says it's rolling out new guardrails to "preemptively block" political candidates and athletes from trading in their own markets, as reported earlier by Axios. In addition to blocking political candidates from trading on their own campaigns, Kalshi says its system will also prevent professional and college sports athletes, referees, and […]Read more →
CNET...When to Stream Hannah Montana's 20th Anniversary Special on Disney PlusDisney is launching a Hannah Montana 20th Anniversary Special on Disney Plus and Hulu, featuring interviews with star Miley Cyrus, never-before-seen archival footage, and musical performances. The special capitalizes on the show's enduring popularity, which has generated over half a billion hours of streaming globally on Disney Plus.Read more →
TechCrunch...Bernie Sanders’ AI ‘gotcha’ video flops, but the memes are greatSenator Bernie Sanders' viral video intended to expose AI privacy threats but instead demonstrated how AI chatbots tend to agree with and reflect their users' beliefs. This sycophancy problem can lead users to treat chatbots as universal truth sources, potentially reinforcing irrational or dangerous beliefs and contributing to harmful outcomes.Read more →
Gizmodo...Why ‘Ready or Not 2’ Had to Include That Shocking SlayReady or Not 2 features a pivotal scene where one character kills his sister to maintain their family's elite status, serving as a crucial narrative turning point toward the climax. Directors explain the decision was necessary to create mounting despair in the third act and showcase the character's final break from familial control. The casting of Sarah Michelle Gellar elevated the emotional and dramatic weight of this dark, Shakespearean moment.Read more →
The Verge...Google’s new Pixel 10 ads made me go ‘wait, WHAT are they trying to sell?’Ever watch a TV ad and wonder "How did this get approved?" Today, Google has not one but two new ad spots for its six-month-old Pixel 10 phones, and… let's just say they may not come across as intended. First, there's "With 100x Zoom," an ad that appears to suggest that if a vacation rental […]Read more →
The Verge...Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang says 'I think we've achieved AGI'Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang declared that the company has achieved artificial general intelligence (AGI) on the Lex Fridman podcast, defining it as AI systems capable of running billion-dollar tech companies. He cited the open-source AI agent platform OpenClaw as evidence, but acknowledged that most agents ultimately fail to sustain adoption. This assertion contradicts the tech industry's recent trend of distancing from AGI terminology and reignites debate over AGI definitions, which carry significant contractual implications across major tech companies.Read more →
CNET...Crunchyroll Investigating Claims of CyberattackCrunchyroll is investigating an alleged cyberattack that potentially exposed customer billing information, email addresses, and IP addresses through a breach at Telus, its digital operations provider, in mid-March. The company is collaborating with cybersecurity experts to confirm the breach and assess its scope.Read more →
CNET...The New 'Moana' Trailer Is Here, With 'The Rock' Back as MauiDisney is releasing a live-action remake of Moana on July 10, featuring Dwayne Johnson reprising his role as the demigod Maui. The film follows the same storyline as the 2016 animated version and represents another addition to Disney's expanding strategy of adapting classic animated films into live-action releases.Read more →
Engadget...EA is nuking Battlefield Hardline on consolesEA will delist Battlefield Hardline from PS4 and Xbox One digital storefronts on May 22 and shut down online services on June 22, citing declining player bases for the 2015 title. The game's single-player campaign will remain playable for those who own it, while the PC version on Steam and EA's app will continue operating.Read more →
The Verge...Two of my favorite color e-book readers are the cheapest they’ve been in monthsBoth the Kindle Colorsoft and Kobo Libra Colour are excellent color e-readers offering strong performance and features. The optimal choice between them depends primarily on the user's ebook purchasing preferences and existing ecosystem. Device selection should be based on where users buy and manage their digital book libraries.Read more →
CNET...This Is My Favorite Laptop of the Past Year, and It Just Hit Its Lowest Price EverApple's M4 MacBook Air models are currently available at significant discounts, with the 15-inch model priced at $949, offering excellent value for productivity and portability. While the new M5 models provide modest performance improvements of 9-18% depending on the workload, the M4 maintains comparable battery life and design, making it a compelling choice for cost-conscious users seeking reliable performance.Read more →
TechCrunch...Russian authorities block paywall removal site Archive.todayRussian authorities have blocked Archive.today and its associated domains through Roskomnadzor, the government's internet censorship agency, without providing a stated reason. The paywall bypass and web archiving service has faced prior controversy over allegations that it covertly used visitors' browsers to attack critics.Read more →
CNET...Apple Store Reflects RAM Shortage With External Storage Products Sold Out or Marked UpA global memory chip shortage caused by data center expansion and AI deployment is now affecting Apple's online accessory store, with external storage products from companies like SanDisk and LaCie either unavailable or experiencing significant price increases. Some products have seen dramatic price hikes—such as a SanDisk Extreme 1TB SSD tripling from $120 to $360—impacting creative professionals who rely on external storage for large media files. The shortage is expected to further drive up prices for smartphones and consumer electronics over the coming years.Read more →
Gizmodo...Sunken Soviet Submarine Is Quietly Leaking Radiation Decades Later, Study FindsA new study of the sunken Soviet nuclear submarine K-278 Komsomolets confirms that Russia's 1990s environmental remediation efforts were effective, with radioactive leaks from the vessel causing no detectable impact on marine ecosystems. Researchers detected active releases of radioactive isotopes from the submarine's reactor ventilation pipe, but the material rapidly dilutes in seawater and titanium seals protecting the nuclear warheads have remained intact. The findings validate Russia's post-Chernobyl commitment to transparency and international cooperation in nuclear safety management.Read more →
Gizmodo...No, for Real, the Best Sci-fi Movie of the Year So Far Is Finally Coming HomeNirvanna The Band The Show The Movie, a unique sci-fi comedy directed by Matt Johnson, arrives on digital platforms March 24 and physical media May 26. The film blends real-world footage with a time-travel narrative set in 2008, following two friends chasing their band's dreams. Praised for its unconventional storytelling and heartfelt humor, the release makes this acclaimed film accessible to a wider audience.Read more →
The Verge...Apple could put ads in Maps as soon as this summerApple will introduce paid advertising to its Maps application, allowing businesses to bid for top placement in search results similar to Google Maps. This expansion of Apple's advertising platform will launch in summer and represents another revenue stream for the company's services division. The move follows Apple's existing ad offerings in the App Store, News, and Stocks apps.Read more →
Gizmodo...Flipper Zero, Everyone’s Favorite Legally Dubious Hacker Tool, Gets an AI UpgradeV3SP3R is a new AI-powered interface for Flipper Zero that simplifies its operation by allowing users to input plain-language commands via a chatbot interface, eliminating the need to memorize technical protocols or navigate complex menus. The system includes safety protocols requiring explicit user confirmation for destructive operations and communicates with Flipper Zero via Bluetooth on Android devices. While the technology demonstrates practical applications in IoT device control, community reception on Reddit has been lukewarm.Read more →
CNET...'Marshals' Actor Mo Brings Plenty Breaks Down the Native Stories in the 'Yellowstone' Spin-OffMarshals is a new CBS series expanding the Yellowstone universe that features significant Native American representation and authentic storytelling from cast members like Mo Brings Plenty of the Oglala Lakota Nation. The show addresses real challenges facing Native communities, particularly water contamination and healthcare disparities on the Broken Rock Reservation, bringing historically underrepresented indigenous narratives to mainstream network television. Through this narrative, the series demonstrates that Native Americans are integral to Western ranching culture and contemporary society.Read more →
TechCrunch...Bipartisan bill seeks to ban sports betting on Kalshi and PolymarketSenators Adam Schiff and John Curtis introduced a bipartisan bill to restrict federal prediction market platforms Kalshi and Polymarket from offering sports wagering and casino-style games, arguing these contracts are essentially sports bets that should be regulated at the state level like traditional sportsbooks. The bill addresses growing concerns about gambling addiction and youth exposure, particularly in response to the prediction market industry's explosive growth, with platforms like Kalshi generating over $1 billion in Super Bowl trading volume this year. If passed, the legislation would significantly constrain these federally-regulated platforms, which currently operate across all fifty states.Read more →
Gizmodo...Trump Recounts the Story of the Man Who Invented the Paper ClipPresident Trump deployed ICE immigration agents to 13 major U.S. airports, claiming it was his own idea despite reports he adopted the concept from Fox News coverage. The deployment is unlikely to address the root cause of escalating airport security delays caused by TSA staffing shortages, and represents an escalation of immigration enforcement efforts.Read more →
Engadget...Apple will reportedly start stuffing ads into the Maps appApple is planning to introduce advertisements into its Maps app, similar to Google Maps and Yelp, with an announcement potentially coming this month and ads appearing on iPhones by summer. This ad-supported expansion could significantly strengthen Apple's services business, which currently generates $100 billion annually and represents approximately 25 percent of the company's total revenue. The initiative comes as regulators worldwide push for changes to App Store policies.Read more →
TechCrunch...Vibe-coding startup Lovable is on the hunt for acquisitionsLovable, an AI-powered app-building platform valued at $6.6 billion, is actively seeking acquisitions of teams and startups to accelerate growth amid intensifying competition from companies like Cursor and OpenAI. The company is leveraging its strong financial position—reporting $400 million in annual recurring revenue and over 200,000 new projects created daily—to expand through M&A, having already acquired cloud provider Molnett in November.Read more →
Gizmodo...Smart Glasses Are Getting Shamed Into Covering Their CamerasSmart glasses manufacturers are responding to privacy controversies surrounding Meta's Ray-Ban AI glasses, which faced backlash for sending sensitive user videos to human reviewers without proper safeguards. Companies like Inmo are now emphasizing privacy features such as physical camera covers, while the U.S. Senate investigates Meta's facial recognition plans. This scrutiny is likely to influence how the entire smart glasses industry approaches privacy and data handling.Read more →
Gizmodo...This Fan-Made Lego ‘Project Hail Mary’ Rocky Build Is Amaze Amaze AmazeA Lego fan creator designed instructions for building a larger Rocky character from Project Hail Mary using pieces from the existing $20 Cute Bunny set, with design files sold for $3. This alternative costs only $23 compared to the $100 official Project Hail Mary Lego set, while featuring articulated arms and standing 3.7 inches tall. The project demonstrates the creativity of the online Lego community and highlights cost-effective alternatives for fans.Read more →
TechCrunch...Apple sets June date for WWDC 2026, teasing “AI advancements”Apple announced its 2026 Worldwide Developers Conference will emphasize AI advancements, marking a strategic shift from last year's design-focused event. The conference is expected to showcase a revamped Siri with enhanced AI capabilities and integration with Google's Gemini technology. The June 8-12 event will be held both online and at Apple's Cupertino headquarters, with updates across iOS, macOS, tvOS, and watchOS.Read more →
Gizmodo...Why WWDC 2026 Will Be Apple’s Most Important Developer Conference in YearsApple's WWDC 2026 (June 8-12) will be critical for addressing the widely unpopular 'Liquid Glass' design material and delivering on promised AI-powered Siri improvements. The company faces significant pressure to restore user satisfaction across its software platforms and prove it remains competitive in artificial intelligence.Read more →
Engadget...Wing expands its drone delivery service to the Bay AreaWing, a drone delivery startup spun out of Google's X incubator, is expanding its service to the Bay Area where it originally piloted deliveries on Google's Mountain View campus. The company now offers commercial home delivery of groceries, food, and packages up to five pounds with guaranteed 30-minute delivery times, marking a full-scale return to its origins with consumer-focused services.Read more →
CNET...Apple's WWDC 2026 Developer Event Is Set for Early JuneApple announced its 2026 Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) will be held June 8-12, with the keynote on June 8. The event will showcase new operating system versions, including iOS 27, macOS 27, iPadOS 27, WatchOS 27, VisionOS 27, and TVOS 27, continuing WWDC's focus on software announcements and Apple Intelligence features.Read more →
TechCrunch...DoorDash introduces relief payments for drivers as the Iran-US war drives up gas pricesDoorDash launched a temporary gas relief program through April 26, offering weekly payments starting at $5 to drivers who travel at least 125 miles per week, plus 10% cash back on gas purchases via its debit card. With gas prices surging from $3 to nearly $4 per gallon due to geopolitical tensions, the program aims to ease the financial burden on independent delivery drivers who cover their own fuel and maintenance costs.Read more →
Gizmodo...Attacker Exploits Crypto Stablecoin for a $25 Million PaydayResolv's USR stablecoin protocol was exploited when attackers gained access to a private key controlling the minting mechanism, allowing them to create approximately 80 million unbacked tokens. The attacker converted roughly $25 million of stolen funds to Ethereum before recovery was possible, causing USR to crash from its $1 peg to below $0.25. The incident underscores how centralized infrastructure vulnerabilities, rather than smart contract flaws, pose critical risks to crypto protocols.Read more →
The Verge...Donut Lab’s solid-state battery could barely hold a charge after getting damagedDonut Lab is on a mission to prove to the world its solid-state battery is real, one independent test at a time. We've seen speed charging tests, extreme heat tests, and not-a-supercapacitor tests. Today's test is to see how the battery hold up under damage. The results: while it could barely sustain a charge, it […]Read more →
The Verge...Apple’s WWDC 2026 event starts June 8thApple has not yet released promised AI upgrades for Siri, its virtual assistant, leaving users anticipating improvements to the platform. The delay suggests ongoing development challenges or strategic timing in delivering enhanced AI capabilities.Read more →
CNET...Take Nearly 50% Off the Anker Solix C800 Solar Bundle Ahead of Amazon's Big Spring SaleThe Anker Solix C800 Solar power station is discounted $478 on Amazon, reducing the price to $620 from $1,098. This portable power station offers 768Wh capacity with integrated solar charging and waterproof design, making it ideal for household backup power and off-grid applications. The deal provides substantial savings on a durable power solution with multi-device charging capabilities.Read more →
Engadget...Apple's WWDC 2026 is set for June 8-12Apple announced that its Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) will take place June 8-12, with the keynote led by CEO Tim Cook on June 8. The software-focused event will feature announcements of new operating systems including iOS 27, iPadOS 27, and macOS 27, with expected highlights including Apple Intelligence improvements, a Siri overhaul, and new device features. The event will be free and online for most attendees, with limited in-person attendance at Apple Park.Read more →
Gizmodo...‘Starfleet Academy’ Will End After Season 2Paramount has cancelled Star Trek: Starfleet Academy after its second season, marking a significant shift in the franchise's streaming strategy toward theatrical films instead. Despite strong critical reception, the series struggled with viewership, failing to appear on Nielsen's top 10 streaming charts. This cancellation comes amid a broader restructuring of the Star Trek franchise following Paramount's merger with Skydance, leaving no Star Trek series in active production for the first time in over a decade.Read more →
The Verge...PDP’s wireless guitar controller has returned to its best price to dateThe early 2020s were kind of a dark time if you were a fan of Rock Band. PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X owners didn't get an improved, more feature-packed guitar controller until early 2024 when PDP launched the Riffmaster. While it launched for $129.99 and later rose to $149.99, you can now grab it […]Read more →
Engadget...Polymarket is cracking down on insider trading with updated rulesPolymarket has updated its market integrity rules to address insider trading and market manipulation concerns following suspicious betting activity. The platform now prohibits trading on stolen confidential information, illegal tips, and by individuals with authority to influence outcomes. This initiative reflects growing efforts to prevent unfair trading practices in prediction markets.Read more →
TechCrunch...Leonid Radvinsky, the owner of OnlyFans, has passed awayLeonid Radvinsky, the 43-year-old billionaire majority shareholder of OnlyFans, has passed away after battling cancer. Radvinsky acquired a controlling stake in the creator platform in 2018 and built it into a major income source for creators, with the platform having paid out over $25 billion to date. The Ukrainian-born entrepreneur also operated a venture capital fund and previously founded MyFreeCams, establishing himself as a key figure in digital creator economies.Read more →
Engadget...Billionaire OnlyFans owner Leonid Radvinsky has died from cancer at 43Leonid Radvinsky, billionaire owner of OnlyFans, died at age 43 after a prolonged cancer battle. He transformed the platform from a niche site into a dominant player generating nearly $2 million daily in 2024, with a reported net worth of $4.7 billion. His death occurs amid negotiations for an $8 billion sale, though his tenure was marked by controversies stemming from his earlier ventures in adult content platforms.Read more →
Gizmodo...The New Live-Action ‘Moana’ Trailer Welcomes You to the RockDisney announces a live-action adaptation of Moana releasing July 10, featuring Dwayne Johnson reprising his role as Maui from the animated films. The film capitalizes on the franchise's strong performance, particularly following the success of the 2024 animated sequel. New promotional materials including a behind-the-scenes featurette and poster have been released ahead of the theatrical debut.Read more →
CNET...TSA Staffing Shortages: Be Prepared to Wait 2 to 4 Hours at Airport SecurityA government shutdown has left TSA officers without paychecks, creating severe staffing shortages at US airports with some locations reporting security wait times exceeding two hours. The White House has deployed ICE agents to assist, though potential airport closures may occur if staffing issues persist. Travelers can check real-time security wait times through the TSA's MyTSA app or airport websites, and some airports offer line reservation systems.Read more →
Gizmodo...8 Horror Movies to Welcome Spring’s ArrivalThis article recommends eight horror films with spring and seasonal themes, ranging from folk horror classics like The Wicker Man (1973) to modern sci-fi horror such as Annihilation (2018). The curated list spans various horror subgenres and provides thematic viewing suggestions for Easter, spring break, and May Day celebrations.Read more →
The Verge...Some writing advice from Project Hail Mary’s Andy WeirAndy Weir's novels, including The Martian and Project Hail Mary, have achieved major commercial success as film adaptations. Despite this, Weir intentionally avoids thinking about movie adaptations while writing, maintaining that books and films are fundamentally different mediums requiring distinct creative approaches. Screenwriter Drew Goddard attributes the success of these adaptations to the deeper themes of human compassion and emotional depth in Weir's writing, rather than just the big scientific concepts.Read more →
TechCrunch...Startup Gimlet Labs is solving the AI inference bottleneck in a surprisingly elegant wayGimlet Labs raised an $80 million Series A to deploy software that optimizes AI inference by distributing workloads across diverse hardware types including CPUs, GPUs, and specialized systems. The platform claims to achieve 3x to 10x faster AI inference for the same cost and power, addressing inefficiencies where organizations currently utilize only 15-30% of their deployed computing resources.Read more →
TechCrunch...Littlebird raises $11M for its AI-assisted ‘recall’ tool that reads your computer screenLittlebird is a new startup that captures screen context in text format to provide AI systems with personalized user information for productivity tasks, differentiating itself from competitors like Rewind by storing lightweight text data rather than screenshots. The company has raised $11 million in funding and aims to solve the challenge of AI systems lacking adequate context about users' work and digital activities.Read more →
Engadget...LG Sound Suite review: Dolby Atmos FlexConnect in a powerful packageLG has launched its Sound Suite, a flexible home theater system featuring the H7 soundbar, W7 subwoofer, and M5/M7 speakers that use Dolby Atmos FlexConnect technology to deliver premium audio regardless of speaker placement. The system requires either the $1,000 H7 soundbar or a compatible recent LG TV as the lead device, with the ideal configuration being the H7, W7, and two M7 speakers for immersive Dolby Atmos performance. While the Sound Suite offers excellent audio quality and flexibility, it comes with a premium price tag and experienced some setup connectivity issues during testing.Read more →
Gizmodo...King Harold’s Legendary 200-Mile March ‘Never Happened,’ Study SuggestsA researcher at the University of East Anglia has challenged the widely-accepted historical narrative that King Harold marched his army 200 miles south to the Battle of Hastings in 1066, revealing no contemporary sources support this Victorian-era assumption. Evidence suggests Harold instead used naval forces to transport troops by sea approximately 60 miles, fundamentally reframing his campaign as a sophisticated land-sea operation rather than a desperate march.Read more →
CNET...I Tested Coleman's Snap 'N Go, the World's First Collapsible Hard CoolerColeman has introduced the Snap 'N Go, the first collapsible hard-cover cooler designed to combine superior cooling performance of traditional hard coolers with the space-saving portability of soft coolers. The innovative design collapses to one-third its original size in seconds and maintains full leakproofness, with cooling capacity of up to 64 hours depending on size. Priced between $200 and $240, it addresses the key pain point for outdoor enthusiasts and campers seeking space efficiency without sacrificing cooling capability.Read more →
TechCrunch...Grab to buy Foodpanda Taiwan from Delivery Hero for $600 millionGrab announced the acquisition of Foodpanda's Taiwan operations for $600 million, marking the Singapore-based company's first geographic expansion outside Southeast Asia. The deal, pending regulatory approval and expected to close in H2 2026, will position Grab with over 50% market share in Taiwan's food delivery market, avoiding the monopoly concerns that blocked Uber's similar acquisition attempt in 2025. Upon completion, Grab plans to expand across 21 Taiwanese cities and integrate Foodpanda's operations into its AI-driven platform.Read more →
The Verge...Apple’s four-pack of first-gen AirTags is down $60 for the first timeApple's first-generation AirTag is available at a new low price of $59.99, offering excellent precision tracking for iPhone users through ultra wideband technology and the Find My network. New software features enable location sharing with up to five people and temporary sharing with US airlines for luggage tracking. The original model remains a highly capable tracker with a replaceable battery, though the second-generation offers improved range and speaker quality.Read more →
The Verge...In-hub motors make this humble Hyundai a monster on iceElaphe, a Slovenian company, continues advancing in-wheel motor technology after surviving its Lordstown Motors partnership failure, demonstrating superior vehicle handling and control through independent motor systems at each wheel. The technology enables lighter and cheaper EV designs by eliminating traditional drivetrains while providing precise power management for enhanced performance and ride quality. Mass-market vehicles using Elaphe's motors are expected within years, with performance-focused electric vehicles launching after 2030.Read more →
Gizmodo...Russian Spacecraft Glitches Out on Its Way to ISSA Russian Progress 94 cargo spacecraft encountered a critical malfunction when two of its rendezvous antennas failed to deploy during its journey to the International Space Station, forcing mission controllers to prepare for manual docking procedures instead of automated navigation. If troubleshooting efforts fail before Tuesday's scheduled docking, ISS cosmonaut Sergey Kud-Sverchkov will manually pilot the spacecraft carrying approximately 3 tons of supplies using backup control systems. The spacecraft's other systems remain operational, and the mission is expected to proceed despite this complication.Read more →
TechCrunch...Elizabeth Warren calls Pentagon’s decision to bar Anthropic ‘retaliation’Anthropic faces designation as a supply-chain risk by the U.S. Department of Defense after refusing to allow its AI technology for mass surveillance or autonomous weapons without human oversight. The decision has drawn criticism from Senator Elizabeth Warren and other tech companies and legal groups, who argue it constitutes retaliation and violates First Amendment protections. A federal judge will soon decide whether to grant Anthropic a preliminary injunction in its lawsuit against the DoD.Read more →
TechCrunch...FBI says Iranian hackers are using Telegram to steal data in malware attacksIranian government hackers, allegedly working for the country's Ministry of Intelligence and Security, are using Telegram to steal data from dissidents, opposition groups, and journalists globally. The attack employs a two-stage approach where targets are deceived into installing malware disguised as legitimate apps, which then connects to Telegram bots for remote command and control of infected devices. This technique allows attackers to steal files, capture screenshots, and record calls while concealing malicious activity within legitimate network traffic.Read more →
Gizmodo...LG Claims Its Latest Laptop Displays Save Nearly 50% Battery LifeLG's new 'Oxide 1Hz' LCD display technology reduces refresh rates from 120Hz to 1Hz when displaying static content, delivering 48% power savings and significantly extending laptop battery life. The technology is already integrated into Dell's latest XPS 14 laptops, with testing showing several additional hours of battery life during browsing and typing. LG plans to expand this variable refresh rate capability to OLED laptop displays in 2027.Read more →
TechCrunch...Sam Altman-backed fusion startup Helion in talks with OpenAIFusion startup Helion is negotiating a power supply deal with OpenAI that could deliver up to 50 gigawatts of electricity by 2035, with OpenAI receiving 12.5% of production. The agreement reflects growing confidence in Helion's proprietary magnetic fusion reactor technology, which recently achieved 150 million degree Celsius plasma—approaching commercial viability. The partnership, following Microsoft's similar 2023 deal with Helion, signals accelerating adoption of fusion energy for powering AI infrastructure.Read more →
TechCrunch...Sam Altman-backed fusion startup Helion in talks to sell power to OpenAIOpenAI is reportedly partnering with fusion startup Helion to secure a long-term supply of clean electricity, with potential commitments of 5 gigawatts by 2030 and 50 gigawatts by 2035. CEO Sam Altman has stepped down as board chair of Helion to enable the partnership, positioning Helion to become a critical energy supplier for AI infrastructure. The deal could accelerate commercial fusion power development while addressing the growing energy demands of AI operations.Read more →
Gizmodo...Gaze Into the Haunting, Tiny Eyes of Lego YodaA Lego Yoda bust provides Star Wars enthusiasts with a collectible buildable model combining the popular brick construction format with iconic character design. The product appeals to both Lego builders and franchise collectors seeking themed merchandise.Read more →
Gizmodo...Gaze Into the Haunting, Tiny Eyes of Lego YodaLego has launched a new Star Wars bust subline featuring Darth Vader and Yoda, small poseable collectibles with display accessories that improve upon previous helmet releases in capturing character likeness. The figures release April 26 at $50 and $40 respectively, representing Lego's expansion into unmasked character collectibles, though design choices for Yoda's facial features have drawn mixed reactions.Read more →
Gizmodo...Your Home Could Soon Be Uninsurable If You’re in One of These StatesHomeowner's insurance premiums are surging nationwide, rising 12% last year with 4% increases projected this year, driven primarily by climate change and extreme weather that have increased insured losses more than sixfold in recent years. Regional hotspots including California, Georgia, and Illinois face particularly steep rate increases as insurance companies adjust pricing to reflect escalating disaster costs. Without significant policy interventions and home resilience investments, experts warn of potential insurance market collapse and broader economic recession.Read more →
CNET...We're All Copyright Owners. Welcome to the Mess That AI Has CreatedAI companies are using copyrighted creative content to train large language and image generation models without creator permission. This has sparked over 30 lawsuits and forced courts to determine whether such use constitutes copyright infringement or qualifies as fair use under existing law.Read more →
Engadget...Wheely, an on-demand chauffeur app, makes its US debut in NYCWheely, a London-based premium chauffeur service, has launched operations in New York City, offering luxury transportation options including Mercedes-Benz S-Class vehicles and personalized chauffeur services for business executives and VIPs. The company plans to establish a network of 5,000 qualified drivers through its proprietary Chauffeur Academy over the next five years. This expansion represents Wheely's strategic entry into the US market as it capitalizes on demand from international clients and expatriate customers.Read more →
Gizmodo...OnlyFans Owner Dies of Cancer at 43Leonid Radvinsky, the Ukrainian-American billionaire who acquired and led OnlyFans, has passed away at 43 following a battle with cancer. Radvinsky's ownership catapulted his net worth to an estimated $3.8 billion as the platform revolutionized adult content creation through a subscription-based model. His death comes amid ongoing investigations into child sexual abuse material and trafficking on the platform, as well as stalled negotiations to sell a 60% stake to investors.Read more →
TechCrunch...Federal immigration agents filmed making airport arrests as Trump calls in ICE to ease security line delaysThe Trump administration has deployed ICE agents to U.S. airports to address security line backlogs caused by a government shutdown that left TSA agents unpaid since mid-February. The deployment has raised concerns about traveler tensions, with reports of ICE agents making arrests at major airports nationwide including San Francisco, Atlanta, and Newark.Read more →
Engadget...Xbox lines up a Partner Preview showcase for March 26Microsoft announced an Xbox Partner Preview stream scheduled for March 26 at 1PM ET, featuring exclusive gaming content across Xbox YouTube and Twitch channels. The broadcast prioritizes accessibility with ASL interpretation, British Sign Language, audio descriptions, and subtitle support in dozens of languages. This multi-platform release strategy with comprehensive accessibility features underscores Microsoft's commitment to inclusive gaming content distribution.Read more →
Gizmodo...John Boyega Has Had Talks About a Potential ‘Star Wars’ ReturnThis article consolidates entertainment industry updates including The Mummy 4 and King Conan entering production phases, alongside multiple casting announcements for franchises like Star Wars and The Last of Us. Mike Flanagan's modernized Carrie adaptation incorporates social media bullying and contemporary issues, while projects including The Matrix 5 and Fast Forever remain in active development. The entertainment industry continues to prioritize established franchises and IP-based projects for future production slates.Read more →
Gizmodo...LaGuardia Airport Closed Following Fatal Crash Between a Jet and Fire TruckA Jazz Aviation regional jet collided with a fire truck while landing at LaGuardia Airport late Sunday, killing the pilot and copilot and injuring approximately 40 passengers and crew members. The incident forced the airport to close for investigation on Monday, disrupting hundreds of flights. The collision occurred amid TSA staffing shortages stemming from federal funding disputes.Read more →
Gizmodo...‘Last of Us’ Spider Pretends to Be a Zombie Fungus—and It’s Bizarrely BrilliantScientists discovered a new spider species (Taczanowskia waska) in Ecuador that mimics parasitic fungi to appear dead, using this deceptive strategy to capture prey while avoiding predators. The identification was made through collaboration with citizen scientists on iNaturalist and published in the journal Zootaxa. This finding demonstrates a remarkable evolutionary adaptation and highlights the value of community-driven scientific engagement in cataloging rainforest biodiversity.Read more →
The Verge...Confronting the CEO of the AI company that impersonated meSuperhuman CEO Shishir Mehrotra discusses the company's Expert Review feature that generated writing suggestions attributed to journalists including Nilay Patel without permission, leading to a class-action lawsuit over unauthorized use of likeness for commercial purposes. The interview explores the broader tension between AI's technological advancement and creator compensation, examining whether platforms should legally require permission to use creator work for AI training and generation, and whether the creator economy can sustain itself as AI reduces the value of original content.Read more →
CNET...Psst. Our Readers Are Looking at These Gadgets Before Amazon's Big Spring Sale Even StartsAmazon's Big Spring Sale (March 25-31) highlights popular tech items including Sony headphones, smart TVs, fitness trackers, and home appliances, offering significant discounts across consumer electronics. The sale provides an opportune time for tech upgrades before new product releases expected in spring and fall, based on trending purchases from CNET readers.Read more →
Gizmodo...‘For All Mankind’ Season 5 Beautifully Sets the Series Up for the FutureApple TV+'s "For All Mankind" season five focuses on Martian colonists fighting for independence while transitioning to a new generation of characters, delivering a compelling narrative despite a slightly reduced scope compared to previous seasons. Though initially slower to develop, the season gains momentum with new character arcs and eventually expands beyond Mars with escalating stakes. The show successfully balances its narrative transition while maintaining its hallmark cinematic quality and emotional depth.Read more →
Gizmodo...I Worked a Shift in a Fictional Video Store and It Was… a Lot of Fun?Retro Rewind is an indie simulator game where players manage a 1990s video store, handling checkout transactions that progressively evolve into complex operational demands including inventory management and customer service. The game cleverly layers increasing complexity onto its core mechanics to capture both the nostalgic appeal and mounting frustrations of retail work. With distinctive visuals and well-executed design, it successfully appeals to both gaming enthusiasts and former Blockbuster employees.Read more →
Gizmodo...Govee’s Outdoor Chromatic String Lights Sound Obnoxious in the Best WayGovee released Outdoor Chromatic String Lights, which feature individually addressable RGB LED bulbs that can display independent colors and layered effects. The Wi-Fi-connected lights are Matter-compatible and priced at $170 for 10 meters and $300 for 20 meters, bringing advanced customization capabilities to outdoor smart home lighting.Read more →
Gizmodo...‘Project Hail Mary’ Rocks Out to Big Worldwide OpeningProject Hail Mary achieved a record-breaking opening weekend with $80.6 million domestically and $141 million worldwide, becoming Amazon's biggest theatrical film release and one of the largest non-sequel debuts in recent years. Strong critical reception and positive word of mouth drove the sci-fi film to significantly exceed initial projections.Read more →
The Verge...Every bulb on Govee’s new outdoor string lights can display multicolor effectsGovee has launched Outdoor Chromatic String Lights that offer advanced per-bulb color customization, allowing users to set individual bulbs to different colors, gradients, and animated effects. Each bulb includes 55 RGB LEDs for color effects and 54 white LEDs for illumination, with an IP67 weather rating and dual-layer shell design. The lights are available in 32-foot and 65-foot models priced at $169.99 and $299.99, integrating with Alexa, Google Home, Matter, and the Govee Home app.Read more →
CNET...Monitor Your Glucose Levels With Expert-Recommended Continuous Glucose MonitorsContinuous glucose monitors have evolved from prescription-only devices to accessible consumer products, with options like Dexcom Stelo and Abbott Lingo offering real-time blood sugar tracking via smartphone apps. These wearable sensors, worn on the arm, help users understand how food, activity, and medication affect their glucose levels, providing valuable insights for both diabetes management and general health monitoring. Key factors for selection include sensor lifespan, alert capabilities, and whether prescription or over-the-counter options suit individual health needs.Read more →
Engadget...Samsung's Galaxy S26 will get Apple AirDrop support starting todaySamsung's Galaxy S26 Series will receive AirDrop support via Quick Share, enabling seamless file sharing between Apple and Android devices. The rollout begins March 23 in Korea and expands globally to North America, Europe, Japan, Hong Kong, and Latin America. This expansion fulfills Google's commitment to increase cross-platform compatibility for wireless file sharing.Read more →
CNET...Bring the Volume Bar Back to Your iPhone's Lock Screen in 4 Easy StepsiOS 18.2 restores the volume control slider to iPhone lock screens, enabling precise volume adjustments without device unlock. This feature addresses the limitations of physical buttons that only allow coarse, incremental changes. Users can enable it via Settings > Accessibility > Audio & Visual > Always Show Volume Control.Read more →
Gizmodo...The ‘One Piece’ Anime Remake Will Be a Leaner and Modern AdaptationWit Studio is producing a new anime adaptation of One Piece for Netflix, designed to appeal to younger audiences through modern animation techniques and tighter pacing with reduced filler compared to the original Toei series. The adaptation aims to match the quality of Wit's acclaimed works like Spy x Family while staying true to creator Eiichiro Oda's original vision. The series will premiere on Netflix in the near future.Read more →
Gizmodo...Amazing AI Brain, Serious Cleaning Brawn. Meet the Roborock Saros 20 Robot Vacuum Now at a Special Discounted PriceRoborock has launched the Saros 20, an advanced autonomous robot vacuum with industry-leading obstacle avoidance powered by its StarSight Autonomous System 2.0, featuring 21,600 sensor points for superior mapping and recognition of over 300 obstacle types. The device combines advanced navigation with 36,000Pa suction, intelligent mopping, and an innovative self-cleaning dock that enables truly hands-free operation without manual intervention. The Saros 20 is available now with promotional pricing reducing the flagship model from $1,600 to $1,390 through March 29.Read more →
Gizmodo...Samsung Bespoke AI Refrigerator Wants to Take the Stress Out of the KitchenSamsung has developed smart refrigerators with AI Vision, an AI-based food recognition system capable of identifying approximately 37 fresh produce items using deep learning models. The feature integrates with Google Gemini and the SmartThings app to provide inventory management and meal planning assistance, requiring Wi-Fi connectivity and a Samsung account. The system includes privacy protections that automatically blur non-food areas when the camera operates.Read more →
The Verge...Samsung adds native AirDrop support to Galaxy S26 devicesSamsung is rolling out AirDrop support to its Quick Share feature on Galaxy S26 devices, beginning with Korea and expanding to the US and other regions shortly. This makes Samsung the second Android manufacturer to offer native AirDrop compatibility, after Google's Pixel series, enabling seamless file sharing between Samsung and Apple devices when both have sharing settings configured to 'Everyone' mode.Read more →
Gizmodo...The U.K. Has a New Partner in the Fight Against White Collar Crime: PalantirPalantir has secured a three-month trial with the U.K.'s Financial Conduct Authority to access its data lake and use AI to detect financial crimes among 42,000 regulated firms. The deal has triggered significant controversy due to co-founder Peter Thiel's connections to the Jeffrey Epstein scandal and concerns from FCA officials about the company's ethical reliability with sensitive financial intelligence. Parliament members have raised formal concerns about the lack of transparency in the government's contracting process with Palantir.Read more →
CNET...Today's NYT Connections: Sports Edition Hints and Answers for March 23, #546This article provides complete solutions and hints for The New York Times Connections: Sports Edition puzzle, a themed word-grouping game featuring sports-related categories. The puzzle includes four groups centered on sports terminology, football formations, universities with Cardinal mascots, and references to NBA player Shai Gilgeous-Alexander.Read more →
The Verge...AI influencer awards season is upon usA new AI Personality of the Year award contest has launched, celebrating AI influencers across categories like fitness, lifestyle, music, and comedy with a $20,000 prize pool. The competition marks the AI influencer economy's evolution from novelty into a serious commercial industry, featuring partnerships between OpenArt, Fanvue, and ElevenLabs. However, the contest highlights ongoing concerns about authenticity, originality, and potential biases in AI-generated virtual personas.Read more →
CNET...Samsung's Galaxy S26 Phones Will Work With Apple's AirDrop, Much Like the Pixel 10Samsung Galaxy S26 phones are gaining AirDrop compatibility with Apple devices, enabling seamless photo and file sharing with iPhones and Mac computers through a software update rolling out this week. The feature requires activation in Quick Share settings and will detect nearby Apple devices for direct sharing, mirroring Google Pixel integration and expanding interoperability across smartphone ecosystems. Samsung plans to bring this functionality to additional Galaxy models following the initial S26 rollout.Read more →
Gizmodo...ICE Is Deploying To Airports. TSA Agents Say Its a Bad IdeaThe Trump administration is deploying ICE agents to airports beginning Monday to support TSA, whose agents have worked without pay since DHS funding lapsed on February 14. The deployment is controversial, with the TSA union arguing that ICE agents lack aviation security training and will create operational problems at security checkpoints. The funding crisis stems from Democrats blocking a DHS appropriations bill without changes to ICE's immigration enforcement policies.Read more →
Gizmodo...Elon Musk’s Latest Outlandish Plan Is a Giant Chip Factory In TexasElon Musk announced plans to build Terafab, a massive chip factory in Austin, Texas, designed to produce advanced semiconductors for Tesla's autonomous vehicles, Optimus robots, and SpaceX's space infrastructure. The project targets one terawatt output annually and is estimated to cost up to $300 billion, representing an unprecedented investment in domestic chip manufacturing. The ambitious venture aims to address AI's growing power demands and reduce dependence on external chip suppliers.Read more →
The Verge...Topical Dancer is propulsive, playful, and politicalCharlotte Adigery and Bolis Pupul's 2022 record combines incisive social commentary with danceable production, blending thoughtful lyrics with engaging rhythms for an accessible yet substantive listening experience.Read more →
Gizmodo...The Daniels’ Next Big Movie Is a Return to Sci-FiDirectors Daniel Kwan and Daniel Scheinert announced their next untitled sci-fi action comedy is scheduled for November 2027 release, with production beginning this summer. The film will be shot extensively for IMAX to deliver a major theatrical event and draws inspiration from current world events. The directors plan to balance big entertainment spectacle with existential themes and emotional depth.Read more →
TechCrunch...The SEC drops its four-year-old investigation into EV startup Faraday FutureThe SEC closed its investigation into electric vehicle startup Faraday Future despite recommending enforcement action last year, citing alleged false statements during its 2021 SPAC merger and fabricated vehicle sales in 2023. This dismissal is exceptionally rare—approximately 85% of companies receiving Wells Notices typically face SEC enforcement action. The decision reflects a historic decline in SEC enforcement, with only four cases initiated against public companies in fiscal 2025.Read more →
TechCrunch...Do you want to build a robot snowman?Nvidia's GTC conference showcased CEO Jensen Huang promoting an OpenClaw strategy for enterprises and demonstrating robotics technology through a malfunctioning Olaf robot demo from Disney's Frozen. The coverage highlights the contrast between impressive engineering achievements and overlooked practical considerations like social integration and real-world durability for deployed robotics systems.Read more →
Gizmodo...Apple Store Prices for SanDisk SSDs Are Suddenly AstronomicalApple stores have seen dramatic price increases on external SSDs, with some models now costing 200% more than before, driven by AI data centers' massive demand for storage and memory. The shortage is cascading through the consumer electronics market, as semiconductor manufacturers prioritize high-profit AI projects over consumer components, affecting major companies and everyday consumers.Read more →
CNET...'Marshals' Release Schedule: When Episode 4 Hits Paramount PlusMarshals, a new Yellowstone spinoff starring Luke Grimes, is now airing on CBS and Paramount Plus. The series follows Grimes' character Kayce Dutton as a former Navy SEAL joining an elite US Marshals unit in Montana, with episodes premiering on Sunday nights.Read more →
Gizmodo...RIP Sam Kieth, Comic Book Artist and ‘Sandman’ Co-CreatorSam Kieth, the influential comic book artist who helped launch Neil Gaiman's Sandman and created the groundbreaking series The Maxx, died at age 63 from Lewy Body Dementia. His distinctive visual style and innovative storytelling significantly shaped multiple generations of comic creators and readers, with The Maxx particularly recognized for redefining the possibilities of mainstream comics. Kieth's decades-long career spanning major publishers including DC and Marvel, independent works, and animated adaptations established him as a transformative figure in the comic industry.Read more →
TechCrunch...Cursor admits its new coding model was built on top of Moonshot AI’s KimiCursor's newly launched Composer 2 coding AI model was discovered to be built on Kimi 2.5, an open-source model from Chinese company Moonshot AI, raising transparency questions in AI development. While Cursor's VP acknowledged the foundation and noted that 75% of compute came from their own additional training, the company did not initially disclose this reliance. The revelation highlights geopolitical sensitivities in US-China AI competition and potential hesitation to acknowledge dependence on Chinese AI technologies.Read more →
Engadget...Crimson Desert developer apologizes and promises to replace AI-generated artPearl Abyss apologized after players discovered AI-generated art assets in the recently launched RPG Crimson Desert that were unintentionally included in the final release. The developer has committed to replacing the affected assets through upcoming patches and conducting comprehensive audits of all in-game content to improve transparency with players.Read more →
Gizmodo...Tech Employees Are Reportedly Being Evaluated by How Fast They Burn Through LLM TokensEmployees at tech companies including Meta and OpenAI compete on internal leaderboards measuring AI token consumption, with usage metrics now directly influencing performance evaluations and managerial rewards. This 'tokenmaxxing' trend, driven by agentic AI platforms like Claude Code, reflects a broader industry shift toward measuring success through token processing volume, with individual engineers reportedly consuming hundreds of billions of tokens.Read more →
The Verge...Crimson Desert dev apologizes for use of AI artCrimson Desert's developer acknowledged that AI-generated assets were included in the final release, contrary to their plan to replace them before launch. The company is conducting a comprehensive audit to identify and remove all AI-generated content and apologized for failing to disclose AI use during development. This incident exemplifies growing backlash against generative AI in gaming, with many developers now marketing their games as AI-free.Read more →
Engadget...Elon Musk announces Terafab project he claims will be the 'largest chip manufacturing facility ever'Elon Musk announced the Terafab project, a joint venture between Tesla, SpaceX, and xAI to build the world's largest chip manufacturing facility capable of producing a terawatt of computing power annually. The initiative addresses a critical supply constraint, as current chip manufacturers can meet only approximately 2% of the companies' future computing requirements. The facility is essential for supporting the growing computational demands of their autonomous systems, AI operations, and space exploration initiatives.Read more →
CNET...La Liga Soccer: Stream Real Madrid vs. Atlético Madrid Live From AnywhereThe stakes are high for title-chasing Los Blancos in today's El Derbi Madrileño.Read more →
Gizmodo...Open Channel: Tell Us What You Thought of ‘Project Hail Mary’Project Hail Mary, starring Ryan Gosling and directed by Phil Lord and Chris Miller, is performing strongly at the box office with widespread critical and audience praise. The space film adaptation has resonated with viewers, particularly for Gosling's performance and his alien co-star Rocky. The film's success positions it as a major entertainment release for 2026.Read more →
TechCrunch...Elon Musk unveils chip manufacturing plans for SpaceX and TeslaElon Musk announced plans for "Terafab," a chip-manufacturing facility being developed collaboratively by Tesla and SpaceX near Tesla's Austin headquarters to address semiconductor supply shortages for their artificial intelligence and robotics operations. The facility aims to produce chips supporting 100-200 gigawatts of computing power annually on Earth and one terawatt in space.Read more →
TechCrunch...TechCrunch Mobility: Uber everywhere, all at onceUber is investing $300 million in Rivian and committing to purchase 10,000 autonomous R2 robotaxis for a planned 2028 launch in San Francisco and Miami, representing a major shift toward partnership-based autonomous vehicle development. This deal demonstrates how major mobility platforms are consolidating autonomous vehicle capabilities through strategic partnerships rather than in-house development, while Rivian assumes substantial risk given it has not yet produced the R2 or deployed a robotaxi-focused autonomous system.Read more →
CNET...Chimp Slasher Flick 'Primate' Hits Streaming. Warning: This Ain't No Punch the Monkey StoryPrimate is a horror film about a chimpanzee that attacks its human family, premiering on Paramount Plus on March 25 in the US and Canada. Directed by Johannes Roberts and starring Johnny Sequoyah and Troy Kotsur, the film delivers a killer-animal thriller in the style of Stephen King's Cujo.Read more →
TechCrunch...Delve accused of misleading customers with ‘fake compliance’An anonymous whistleblower accused Y Combinator-backed compliance startup Delve of falsely convincing hundreds of customers they were compliant with privacy and security regulations by fabricating evidence and generating fake auditor conclusions, potentially exposing customers to criminal liability under HIPAA and fines under GDPR. Delve denied the allegations, characterizing its work as providing automation templates rather than issuing compliance reports. The controversy has been further complicated by reports of security vulnerabilities in Delve's systems.Read more →
Gizmodo...A Long Lost ‘Mystery Science Theater 3000’ Episode Has Finally Been FoundA rare 1988 episode of Mystery Science Theater 3000 has been discovered and uploaded to YouTube, completing the archive of the show's earliest KTMA-era content. Found at a Minneapolis garage sale and digitized by a fan, the episode represents material that the show's creators previously lacked legal rights to distribute. This recovery is being compared to the restoration of lost Doctor Who episodes from 1965.Read more →
The Verge...Musk says he’s building Terafab chip plant in Austin, TexasElon Musk announced plans to construct a Terafab chip fabrication plant in Austin, Texas, jointly operated by Tesla and SpaceX to produce semiconductors for robotics, AI, and space-based data centers. The initiative addresses semiconductor supply constraints as AI demand accelerates, though chip fabrication requires substantial capital, specialized expertise, and multi-year timelines. Musk provided no production schedule despite outlining ambitious computing capacity targets of 200 gigawatts annually on Earth and up to a terawatt in space.Read more →
The Verge...The secret story of the vocoder, the military tech that changed music foreverThe vocoder, invented at Bell Labs in the early 20th century for telephone transmission and later used in World War II for secret communications, became a revolutionary music technology when artists discovered its ability to synthesize and manipulate the human voice. Musicians quickly adopted the vocoder as an instrument, establishing it as a cultural phenomenon that continues to influence modern music production. This podcast episode traces the vocoder's evolution from its technical origins to its lasting impact on music and related technologies like Auto-Tune and the Talkbox.Read more →
The Verge...The pint-sized Sonos Roam 2 is more over 20 percent this weekendSonos has released the Roam 2, an upgraded portable speaker that improves upon the original model while maintaining the same battery life and audio quality specifications. The device represents a meaningful hardware refinement for consumers in the portable audio market.Read more →
CNET...Getting Older Messed With My Gaming. So I Changed How I PlayAs older adults represent a significant gaming demographic—with over half of Gen X and nearly half of Boomers gaming weekly—age-related physical changes including vision decline, dexterity loss, and hearing changes pose substantial gaming challenges. The article examines how different gaming platforms address these accessibility needs, concluding that handheld devices offer the optimal balance of comfort, screen size, and game variety for aging gamers. The research underscores the critical role of hardware design, accessibility features, and adaptive accessories in enabling older adults to maintain gaming engagement for entertainment, relaxation, and cognitive health.Read more →
CNET...Apple iPhone 20: All We Know About the Button-Less, All-Glass Redesign Coming in 2027Apple is reportedly planning a 20th-anniversary iPhone for 2027 featuring a buttonless, all-glass design with haptic feedback integrated into the frame, advanced OLED displays, and next-generation 2nm processors. The device would represent an era-defining redesign similar to the iPhone X, positioned as an ultra-premium model. Expected features include silicon anode batteries for increased capacity and enhanced performance capabilities.Read more →
CNET...Generative AI in Gaming Is Here, but Facing Pushback from Gamers -- and DevelopersGenerative AI adoption in video games remains minimal as of 2026, with major studios resisting integration despite significant investment, driven by player backlash over undisclosed AI use and quality concerns. While smaller studios experiment with AI for development workflows, industry consensus emphasizes that AI tools should accelerate rather than replace human work. The gaming industry's cautious approach contrasts with previous technology hype cycles, as developers and players maintain skepticism about AI's transformative value.Read more →
CNET...Meeting Every Robot at Nvidia GTC: What the Future May BringRobotics companies at Nvidia GTC demonstrated fleet control systems allowing single operators to command multiple robots simultaneously, advancing the practical deployment of robotic workforces. Key developments included cost-effective robot designs and autonomous task completion with human supervision, highlighting progress toward scalable robotic solutions for industrial and service sectors.Read more →
The Verge...AI was everywhere at gaming’s big developer conference — except the gamesDespite AI tools being heavily featured at the Game Developers Conference, most game developers expressed strong opposition to using AI in their projects, citing concerns about loss of craftsmanship, generic output quality, and job displacement. Recent surveys show 52 percent of developers view generative AI as having a negative impact on the gaming industry, with major publishers explicitly refusing AI-generated games. Developers emphasize that the human element of game creation is essential to producing meaningful work and building connections with players.Read more →
The Verge...Online age checks came first — a VPN crackdown could be nextVPNs are experiencing a surge in adoption as governments globally implement age verification requirements to restrict access to adult content and social media. Lawmakers in several countries are proposing VPN bans to enforce these age restrictions, but critics argue such bans would undermine privacy protections for activists, journalists, and vulnerable communities. The trend highlights a growing tension between age verification mandates and user privacy rights.Read more →
TechCrunch...An exclusive tour of Amazon’s Trainium lab, the chip that’s won over Anthropic, OpenAI, even AppleAmazon's chip development lab is producing custom Trainium chips designed to provide cost-efficient alternatives to Nvidia's GPUs for AI inference, with the new Trainium3 offering up to 50% cost savings. As part of a $50 billion partnership with OpenAI, AWS is committing 2 gigawatts of Trainium capacity, while the chips are already heavily deployed across Anthropic's Claude and Amazon's Bedrock service. The team has engineered a complete vertical stack including custom servers, networking components, and liquid cooling technology to maximize performance and minimize latency in AI workloads.Read more →
Gizmodo...The Ikea Varmblixt Smart Lamp Fills a Donut Hole in My LifeIkea has launched the Varmblixt, a Matter-compatible smart decorative lamp featuring a distinctive donut-shaped design with color-changing and adaptive lighting capabilities. The lamp integrates seamlessly with major smart home platforms via Thread protocol and costs $100, though its practical utility is limited to accent lighting due to its modest brightness of 120 lumens. The product offers solid build quality and reliable smart home integration, making it an attractive option for users prioritizing aesthetic smart home enhancements.Read more →
CNET...Here Are the Mother's Day Gifts Our Editors Are Asking for in 2026CNET's editors provide a comprehensive Mother's Day gift guide featuring curated product recommendations across tech, home, self-care, and kitchen categories at various price points. The guide includes verified reviews and personal endorsements from CNET staff, offering options under $50, under $100, and premium picks for gift-givers at any budget level. Products range from Apple watches and e-readers to robot vacuums and subscription services designed to improve daily life for mothers.Read more →
CNET...The 9 Best Places to Buy Reading Glasses Online With No PrescriptionCNET provides a comprehensive guide to buying reading glasses online, comparing nine major retailers across price, style selection, shipping speeds, and warranty options. The guide explains presbyopia, the age-related vision condition affecting people in their 40s, and outlines key factors when selecting reading glasses, including lens strength, type, and materials. GlassesUSA is highlighted as the best overall option, while Eyebuydirect offers the most budget-friendly alternative.Read more →
Gizmodo...Elon Musk Claims He ‘Would Like to Offer’ to Pay TSA Workers’ SalariesElon Musk stated he would like to pay the salaries of TSA workers during the ongoing government shutdown, though observers question whether he will follow through given a history of unfulfilled public pledges. The Homeland Security shutdown that began in February has caused 376 TSA agents to quit while workers continue without pay. The situation highlights tensions between private sector intervention and public sector labor crises during government funding lapses.Read more →
TechCrunch...Are AI tokens the new signing bonus or just a cost of doing business?Companies are increasingly offering AI tokens as engineering compensation, with Nvidia's CEO Jensen Huang proposing token budgets equivalent to roughly half base salary to boost productivity. This trend reflects soaring demand from agentic AI systems that autonomously consume massive computational resources. However, analysts caution that token budgets may allow companies to inflate compensation packages without increasing actual cash or equity, while potentially masking future headcount reduction as compute spending approaches employee salary levels.Read more →
CNET...Today's NYT Connections: Sports Edition Hints and Answers for March 22, #545This article provides hints and complete answers for today's Connections: Sports Edition puzzle published by The Athletic. The puzzle features four thematic groupings: words meaning 'all square,' palindromes, NBA siblings, and compound phrases containing 'zone.'Read more →
The Verge...Halide co-founder is suing former partner for bringing source code to AppleSebastiaan de With, co-founder of Lux Optics and creator of the popular Halide photography app, joined Apple in January. His former co-founder Ben Sandofsky filed a lawsuit alleging de With misused over $150,000 in corporate funds for personal expenses and took confidential source code when departing for Apple. De With's attorney denies the claims, asserting the lawsuit is designed to create leverage and negative publicity.Read more →
TechCrunch...It’s been 20 years since the first tweetTwitter, on its 20th anniversary, underwent significant transformation following Elon Musk's acquisition and rebranding to X, with subsequent integration into xAI and SpaceX accompanied by substantial workforce reductions. The platform has faced controversies surrounding sexual deepfakes generated by its Grok chatbot and competition from rivals like Bluesky and Meta's Threads, which now reportedly attract more daily mobile users. Despite its influence within the tech industry, X confronts ongoing legal challenges and declining user engagement compared to emerging alternatives.Read more →
Gizmodo...The Stunning ‘Expedition 33’ Art Book Is Finally Coming WestAn English-translated art book for the acclaimed game Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 is coming to North America through publishers UDON and Pix'n Love in November, available in standard and premium collector's editions. The 300+ page volume features hundreds of concept art pieces, design notes, and developer insights from the game's creators. The collector's edition includes exclusive items such as textured prints and a cardboard portfolio featuring unreleased artwork.Read more →
Engadget...Reddit is weighing identity verification methods to combat its bot problemReddit is exploring human verification methods to combat rising bot activity, considering options ranging from biometric authentication like Face ID to third-party identity services. CEO Steve Huffman emphasized the platform wants to verify users are human while maintaining anonymity. The company seeks a balance between preventing fake content and preserving user privacy expectations.Read more →
TechCrunch...Publisher pulls horror novel ‘Shy Girl’ over AI concernsHachette Book Group cancelled publication of 'Shy Girl' after determining the novel was likely AI-generated. The author denied using AI and blamed a hired editor for introducing AI-generated content, while facing significant personal and professional consequences. The incident highlights growing scrutiny around AI-generated books entering traditional publishing channels.Read more →
Engadget...What to read this weekend: Revisiting Project Hail Mary and The Thing on the DoorstepThe article reviews two entertainment adaptations: a film version of Andy Weir's science fiction novel 'Project Hail Mary' about humanity's desperate attempt to prevent apocalyptic solar dimming, and a comic miniseries adapting H.P. Lovecraft's cosmic horror story. Both works explore existential and supernatural themes through different visual mediums with strong narrative depth.Read more →
Gizmodo...Oh, the New ‘Absolute Batman’ Villains Are…Kinda Normal?Absolute Batman #21 introduces reimagined versions of Two-Face and Penguin as childhood friends of Bruce Wayne who have become enemies in this alternate universe. These characters feature distinctive designs diverging from traditional portrayals, with Two-Face sporting blue hair and Penguin wielding machine guns as crutches. The issue explores themes of friendship betrayal within DC's darker Batman continuity.Read more →
CNET...March Madness 2026: How to Watch the Second RoundThe 2026 NCAA March Madness tournament runs from March 17 through early April, with games broadcast across CBS, ESPN, TBS, TNT, and TruTV. Games are available to stream on HBO Max, ESPN Unlimited, Paramount Plus, and live TV streaming services including YouTube TV, Hulu with Live TV, and DirecTV, with various pricing options available.Read more →
Engadget...Apple considered buying Halide to upgrade its native Camera appA legal dispute revealed that Apple held acquisition talks with Lux Optics, the developer behind popular camera apps like Halide, Kino, and Spectre, in summer 2025. The deal fell through in September 2025, but would have provided Apple with advanced third-party camera software to enhance its built-in camera app, particularly as Apple prepares variable aperture technology for upcoming iPhone 18 Pro models.Read more →
Engadget...A Minecraft theme park will open in London in 2027Minecraft is expanding into physical entertainment with Minecraft World, a permanent theme park opening in Greater London in 2027 featuring roller coasters, interactive adventures, and block-built playscapes through a collaboration between Mojang Studios and Merlin Entertainments. The franchise is also launching experiential pop-up events like Minecraft Experience: Moonlight Trail in Buenos Aires, alongside new game updates including the Tiny Takeover expansion with redesigned baby mobs arriving March 24.Read more →
Gizmodo...Gemini, Crypto.com Latest Crypto Firms to Blame Downsizing on AIMajor cryptocurrency companies including Crypto.com, Gemini, Messari, and Block are conducting significant layoffs while emphasizing enterprise-wide AI integration as a strategic priority. Bitcoin mining companies are similarly pivoting toward AI to diversify revenue streams and improve profitability amid a bear market where Bitcoin sits 44% below its October peak. Critics debate whether AI adoption represents genuine business transformation or serves as a rationalization for typical crypto industry downturns.Read more →
TechCrunch...Delve accused of misleading customers with ‘fake compliance’Compliance startup Delve is facing allegations from an anonymous former client that it provides fabricated compliance evidence and facilitates fraud by misleading customers into believing they meet HIPAA and GDPR requirements. The accuser claims Delve generates fake audit reports through rubber-stamp certification firms, potentially exposing customers to criminal liability and regulatory fines. Delve denies the allegations, asserting it operates as an automation platform providing templates and connecting customers with independent auditors.Read more →
The Verge...The AirPods Pro 3 are $50 off right now, nearly matching their best-ever priceApple has released premium earbuds designed with seamless integration and robust capabilities for users within the Apple ecosystem. The earbuds combine sleek design with functionality tailored specifically for Apple device owners.Read more →
TechCrunch...Why Wall Street wasn’t won over by Nvidia’s big conferenceDespite a bullish GTC keynote announcing $1 trillion in projected chip orders by 2027, Nvidia's stock declined as Wall Street grapples with AI uncertainty and potential bubble concerns. However, the company's fundamentals remain robust with 73% year-over-year revenue growth and major infrastructure deals like Amazon's commitment to purchase 1 million GPUs by 2027, positioning Nvidia as essential infrastructure for the AI economy.Read more →
Gizmodo...They’re Trying to Make a ‘Powers’ Adaptation AgainNetflix is producing an animated adaptation of the comic series 'Powers,' with original creators Brian Michael Bendis and Michael Oeming involved in writing and visual development. This represents a return to superhero storytelling for Netflix through adult animation, building on the success of indie comic adaptations like Invincible.Read more →
Engadget...OpenAI reportedly plans to double its workforce to 8,000 employeesOpenAI plans to nearly double its workforce to 8,000 employees by end of 2026, expanding across engineering, research, product, and sales to intensify competition against rivals like Anthropic. The hiring surge underscores the escalating battle for market dominance in AI services, particularly as businesses increasingly favor Anthropic for initial AI tool adoption.Read more →
Engadget...Intel says Crimson Desert devs ignored offers of help to support Arc GPUsCrimson Desert will not support Intel Arc GPUs at launch, with developer Pearl Abyss directing affected players to request refunds. Despite Intel's repeated efforts over several years to provide technical support, early hardware, and engineering resources to optimize Arc compatibility, the developer declined to implement support for the graphics architecture.Read more →
Gizmodo...Polymarket Bar Opens, SucksPolymarket, a blockchain prediction market, opened a themed bar featuring screens but suffered technical failures on opening night that left all TVs non-functional. The venue was also hit with a cease and desist letter from another firm over the 'Situation Room' name before the bar even fully launched.Read more →
CNET...Dyson Launched Its First-Ever Robot Mop and Vacuum. I Saw It in ActionDyson has launched the Spot+Scrub AI, its first wet-and-dry robot vacuum cleaner featuring AI-powered stain detection that can identify and clean 200 types of household substances. The device uses lidar scanning and camera vision to detect stains and perform up to 15 focused cleaning passes until complete removal, with a self-cleaning heated water roller. The robot is priced at $1,199 and directly competes with high-end models from Roborock, Ecovacs, and Shark.Read more →
Engadget...DNA building blocks on asteroid Ryugu, bacteria that eat plastic waste, and more science newsScientists analyzing samples from asteroid Ryugu discovered the five building blocks of DNA and RNA, suggesting these molecular ingredients were widespread in the early solar system and potentially delivered to Earth by carbonaceous asteroids. The findings support the hypothesis that primitive asteroids transported the chemical precursors necessary for life's origin, advancing our understanding of how the conditions for life first emerged on our planet.Read more →
The Verge...Here are 20 of our favorite outdoor deals from REI’s Member Days SaleREI is hosting a sale through March 23rd with discounts up to 64% on outdoor gear and tech products, offering members an additional 20% off select items with promo code MEMBER26. The event features popular products including Garmin watches, DJI cameras, camping equipment, and portable speakers. The sale targets customers preparing for summer activities and outdoor adventures.Read more →
Gizmodo...‘Buffy’ Star Nicholas Brendon Has Passed Away at Age 54Nicholas Brendon, best known for playing Xander Harris on Buffy the Vampire Slayer, died at age 54 from natural causes in his sleep. Despite battling health challenges including a congenital heart defect, Brendon remained an influential figure in the Buffy franchise and received heartfelt tributes from fellow cast members upon his passing.Read more →
Gizmodo...In Praise of Chuck Norris Facts, Key Artifact from the Time When It Felt Great to Be OnlineChuck Norris, the action star who inspired a beloved 2005 internet meme, has died at age 86. The article reflects on Chuck Norris Facts, a user-generated website created by Ian Spector that exemplified an era when internet culture was communal and human-moderated, contrasting sharply with today's algorithmic social media landscape. The piece uses this meme as a lens to examine how internet culture has fundamentally shifted from niche community-driven content to mainstream, algorithm-driven distribution.Read more →
CNET...HBO Max: The 26 Absolute Best Movies to WatchHBO Max streaming service offers a curated selection of films and documentaries across multiple genres, including new March releases and popular blockbusters such as Dune, Superman, and The Batman. The guide highlights acclaimed titles ranging from dramas and musicals to action films and documentaries, featuring award-winning performances and critically acclaimed directors.Read more →
CNET...Change These Hisense TV Settings to Get the Best Picture QualityThis guide provides simple methods to optimize Hisense TV picture quality by adjusting settings in the display menus, with no specialized equipment required. The most impactful change is selecting an appropriate picture mode, particularly Theater/Cinema modes for movies, followed by fine-tuning gamma, brightness, contrast, and motion settings. These adjustments are reversible and can be applied selectively to different inputs, allowing viewers to achieve significantly improved image quality.Read more →
The Verge...The gen AI Kool-Aid tastes like eugenicsGhost in the Machine is a documentary that traces generative AI's historical roots to eugenics and race science from Victorian England, explaining why modern AI systems perpetuate racist, sexist, and misogynistic outputs. Director Valerie Veatch discovered these discriminatory biases firsthand while experimenting with OpenAI's Sora and found that both the AI community and companies dismissed her concerns as insignificant. The film argues that AI's problematic behavior is not accidental but deeply embedded in the technology's ideological foundations, featuring analysis from researchers, historians, and critical theorists.Read more →
TechCrunch...How fusion power works and the startups pursuing itFusion startups have secured over $10 billion in investment and are racing to build commercially viable fusion reactors, with multiple companies targeting grid-connected power plants within the next few years. The surge in funding is driven by rising energy demands from data centers and recent breakthroughs proving fusion can generate more energy than required. Multiple competing approaches—including magnetic confinement and inertial confinement—are simultaneously advancing, bringing fusion energy's commercialization closer than ever before.Read more →
Engadget...Twitter turned 20 and I feel nothingTwitter marks its 20th anniversary, though the platform has fundamentally transformed since its acquisition and rebranding to X. The platform now relies on Grok, an AI system facing criticism for generating problematic content, to power its recommendation algorithm, representing a stark shift from its earlier role as a community-driven social network toward algorithmic content prioritization.Read more →
Gizmodo...This Columnist Predicted in 2006 That the Iran War Would End by 2026 (Seriously)A 2006 column predicted life in 2026 through scenarios including an Iran War resolution, cannabis legalization, and rising gas prices, most of which diverged significantly from reality. The article compares the columnist's forecasts to actual outcomes, highlighting both misses (Dick Cheney presidency) and partial hits (cannabis legalization and housing crises). The retrospective demonstrates the challenges of long-term predictions while offering insights into the hopes and concerns of the mid-2000s era.Read more →
The Verge...Oeuf is a punishing platformer in a cozy shellOeuf is a physics-based platformer where players control an egg navigating obstacle courses using momentum and precise positioning, featuring retro-style 3D graphics. The game excels at managing difficulty through generous checkpoints and varied level pacing, creating satisfying challenge without excessive frustration. Its built-in map editor serves as both a creative tool and an accessibility solution for overcoming difficult sections.Read more →
CNET...Best Air Purifiers of 2026: Allergy Season is Here. These Models Can HelpCNET tested 15 air purifiers using laboratory metrics including particle removal speed, noise levels, and energy efficiency, recommending the Blueair Blue Pure 311i Max as the best overall option for balanced performance across all criteria. Different models excel at specific needs, from rapid particle removal in large spaces to specialized fine particle filtration for allergy sufferers. The recommendations enable consumers to select air purifiers suited to their specific requirements to reduce indoor air pollutants and allergen exposure.Read more →
CNET...I Tried Cooking Bacon 3 Ways. It Turns Out I've Been Doing It All WrongThe article compares three methods for cooking bacon: stovetop, oven, and air fryer. The air fryer emerges as the superior option, cooking bacon in 7 minutes with minimal mess and optimal crispiness, though it has limited capacity compared to other methods. The trade-off between speed and cleanliness versus batch size is a key consideration for different cooking scenarios.Read more →
CNET...Our Top-Rated Air Fryer Is 100% Nontoxic and Breaks Down for Easy StorageCNET selected the Ninja Crispi as its top air fryer pick after testing over two dozen models, praising its innovative glass cooking chambers that double as storage containers and eliminate nonstick coating health concerns. The modular design offers practical advantages including real-time food visibility, easy cleaning, and compact storage while priced at $160.Read more →
The Verge...Dreame’s self-cleaning L10s Pro Ultra is nearly $1,000 off its original list priceAmazon’s Big Spring Sale doesn’t kick off until next week, but the retailer is already dropping a host of good deals, especially on robot vacuums. We recently saw Ecovacs’ Deebot X8 and X9 Pro Omni drop to $599 ($501 off) and $679 ($621 off), respectively; however, if you’re looking for a cheaper robot vacuum / […]Read more →
CNET...I Tested a Low-Cost Phone With One of the Biggest Batteries We've Seen YetThe Realme P4 Power introduces the smartphone industry's largest battery at 10,001mAh, delivering two-day battery life while maintaining a slim 9.1mm profile and accessible pricing around $285. In endurance testing, it outperforms flagship phones from Apple and OnePlus, making advanced battery innovation available to mainstream consumers.Read more →
The Verge...The new MacBook Pro is still fast as hellApple's new 16-inch MacBook Pro with M5 Max and Pro chips deliver significant performance improvements over the M1 generation, offering 65-85% faster single-threaded CPU performance and more than double the GPU capabilities. The updated models include Wi-Fi 7, Thunderbolt 5, and doubled storage speeds, starting at $2,699 for the M5 Pro and $3,899 for the M5 Max. While expensive, these upgrades provide meaningful benefits for professional creative work, particularly for users working with 4K video and advanced applications.Read more →
The Verge...An early contender for movie of the yearInstaller No. 120 is a curated weekly column featuring tech product recommendations including the AirPods Max 2, Boox e-reader, and new AI-powered development tools like Netlify.New and Google AI Studio. The newsletter combines personal picks across entertainment and consumer goods with community-sourced recommendations for notebooks, pens, and media across streaming platforms and gaming.Read more →
Engadget...Engadget review recap: Lots of Apple devices, Galaxy S26, Dell XPS 16 and moreA comprehensive review roundup of 2026 tech devices, highlighting Apple's expansion into affordable computing with the $599 MacBook Neo and iPhone 17e, which deliver quality performance comparable to or exceeding higher-priced competitors. The article covers various chip-upgraded Apple devices, Samsung's Galaxy S26, and Dell's returning XPS 16, emphasizing accessible pricing and strong user experiences across consumer electronics.Read more →
The Verge...Gemini task automation is slow, clunky, and super impressiveGoogle's Gemini task automation feature allows the AI assistant to take control of Android phones to complete tasks like food ordering and ride booking, representing the first practical demonstration of autonomous app control on mobile devices. Currently limited and slower than manual operation, the feature successfully navigates through human-centric app interfaces and demonstrates significant potential for future AI-powered mobile assistance. The implementation highlights the need for AI-optimized app interfaces, as current human-designed UIs create inefficiencies in automated task execution.Read more →
Engadget...A retro Starship Troopers shooter, a video store sim and other new indie games worth checking outThis indie game roundup highlights recent releases and upcoming projects across diverse genres, from retro shooters like Starship Troopers: Ultimate Bug War to narrative experiences and roguelike deckbuilders. The featured games showcase the creativity of independent developers, with many available at discounted prices during the Steam Spring Sale.Read more →
CNET...Boring Phone Designs, Begone. I'm Seeing a New Wave of Fresh Looks for 2026Smaller phone manufacturers like Honor, Motorola, and Nothing are pushing boundaries with innovative designs such as foldable phones, the Robot Phone with pop-up gimbal camera, and unique materials, while major brands like Apple and Samsung remain conservative. This shift signals a new era of creative smartphone design that moves away from years of bland uniformity and standardized form factors.Read more →
CNET...Excited for New Emoji? You Could See These on Your Device Next YearThe Unicode Consortium has proposed nine new emoji for Unicode 18.0, with approval scheduled for September and potential device rollout in 2027. The proposed additions include a cracking face, thumb gestures, a pickle, lighthouse, meteor, eraser, and a net with handle, with implementation handled by manufacturers like Apple and Samsung.Read more →
The Verge...Kodiak CEO says making trucks drive themselves is only half the battleKodiak AI plans to deploy fully driverless long-haul freight trucks by end of 2026, differentiating itself through a customer-ownership model that prioritizes operational efficiency and reliability over technical benchmarks. Unlike competitors who own their autonomous vehicles, Kodiak's approach requires trucks to meet real-world performance standards, as customers demand consistent uptime and integration into their operations. The company emphasizes that autonomous trucking success depends on solving complex operational challenges—pickups, dropoffs, monitoring—not just safe driving technology.Read more →
CNET...Stay on Top of Your Workouts and Health With the Best Fitness Trackers of 2026CNET has tested multiple fitness trackers and smartwatches to identify the best options across different use cases, from casual fitness tracking to serious athletic performance. The comprehensive review includes lab-validated heart rate accuracy testing and evaluates devices based on battery life, health metrics, price and compatibility. Recommendations range from the Fitbit Charge 6 for general use to specialized watches for runners and athletes.Read more →
Gizmodo...Pinterest CEO Backs Social Media Ban for Kids Under 16Pinterest CEO Bill Ready publicly supports global regulatory bans on social media for users under 16, arguing that the industry has failed at self-regulation. His stance aligns with a growing international movement, beginning with Australia's 2025 ban, driven by research demonstrating strong correlations between social media use and increased depression, anxiety, and other mental health issues in young people.Read more →
The Verge...The improved battery-powered Starlink Mini is hereThe PeakDo LinkPower 2 is a 99Wh battery that extends Starlink Mini satellite internet to over five hours of untethered operation, enabling flexible antenna placement and remote work from locations with poor cellular coverage. The battery features a magnetic breakaway charging dongle, battery bypass mode, and multiple charging options, with new second-generation improvements delivering an additional hour of runtime compared to its predecessor. At $219, it offers premium connectivity flexibility for remote workers, though pricing is significantly higher than comparable power banks.Read more →
TechCrunch...New court filing reveals Pentagon told Anthropic the two sides were nearly aligned — a week after Trump declared the relationship kaputAnthropic filed sworn declarations challenging the Pentagon's national security allegations, arguing the government's claims rely on technical misunderstandings and issues never discussed during negotiations. The company disputes assertions about operational veto capabilities and security risks, explaining that once Claude is deployed in air-gapped government systems, Anthropic has no access to interfere. Anthropic contends the supply-chain risk designation constitutes unconstitutional retaliation for the company's AI safety positions.Read more →
CNET...Microsoft Lays Out Next Windows Updates: Faster, Lighter and More FlexibleMicrosoft is introducing substantial Windows improvements focused on reducing user interruptions and enhancing system performance. Key updates include more intentional Copilot integration, less intrusive Windows Updates with extended pause options, reduced memory footprint, and streamlined notifications and widgets. Additional enhancements target gaming device support and improved stability for Bluetooth, USB, and File Explorer.Read more →
The Verge...Jury finds Elon Musk's 'stupid tweets' caused Twitter investors' lossesTwitter's CEO refused to provide evidence that fake and spam accounts represent less than 5% of users, a key condition for a pending acquisition deal. The potential acquirer indicates the actual bot prevalence may be substantially higher than Twitter's claims. Without proof, the deal cannot proceed.Read more →
TechCrunch...Elon Musk misled Twitter investors while trying to get out of acquisition, jury saysA California jury ruled that Elon Musk intentionally misled Twitter investors by tweeting about excessive bot accounts to justify backing out of his $44 billion acquisition in 2022. The jury found his posts were designed to artificially depress Twitter's stock price, causing losses for shareholders who sold during the uncertainty period. Damages could reach up to $2.6 billion.Read more →
Engadget...Elon Musk misled investors during his Twitter takeover, jury findsA federal jury found that Elon Musk defrauded Twitter investors through misleading tweets about fake accounts during his 2022 acquisition of the platform. The judgment could result in damages of billions of dollars, with jurors determining shareholders lost between approximately $3 and $8 per share per day. Musk allegedly made the tweets to drive down the stock price in an attempt to renegotiate the $44 billion deal.Read more →
CNET...AT&T Raising Prices for Legacy Unlimited Plans Starting in April 2026AT&T is raising prices on legacy unlimited plans by $10 for single lines and up to $20 for multi-line accounts starting in April, offsetting with an additional 20GB monthly hotspot data. The increases may drive customers toward AT&T's newly introduced 2.0 plans, which are now comparatively priced to the older plans.Read more →
CNET...Today's NYT Connections: Sports Edition Hints and Answers for March 21, #544The New York Times Connections: Sports Edition is a daily puzzle game published by The Athletic featuring four groupings of sports-themed categories, including gymnastics apparatus names, boxing ring terminology, NFL tight end first names, and NHL team name beginnings. The puzzle is accessible through The Athletic's mobile app or free online play.Read more →
Gizmodo...Microsoft Is Finally Ready to Make Windows 11 Less Terrible After Bloating It With AI CrapMicrosoft is releasing Windows 11 updates to improve user experience by reducing intrusive Copilot features, enhancing File Explorer performance, and providing greater control over updates and taskbar positioning. The updates also focus on system reliability improvements including better memory efficiency, reduced crashes, and improved driver quality. Changes will roll out to Windows Insiders starting next month.Read more →
Gizmodo...Check Out Frank Miller’s First Ever ‘Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles’ Comic CoverFrank Miller has illustrated a cover for IDW's landmark Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #300, creating a full-circle moment as the TMNT creators were originally inspired by Miller's Daredevil run. The July 22 release will feature multiple variant covers from renowned artists, with some available as blind-bag surprises for collectors.Read more →
CNET...This Book Just Became the First to Get Canceled for AIHachette Book Group cancelled the US publication of the novel Shy Girl after evidence emerged of AI-generated content, marking the first time a major publisher has publicly withdrawn a title for this reason. The author denies using AI herself but claims her editor was responsible for the AI-generated portions. The cancellation highlights the publishing industry's struggle with disclosure policies and quality control regarding AI-generated prose.Read more →
CNET...Trump Outlines New AI Regulation Plan: What's in It and What's MissingThe White House released a federal policy framework for regulating generative AI that establishes federal control over state regulations and protects fair use rights for AI training. The framework addresses child protection from deepfakes, job displacement, and data center infrastructure while taking a lighter regulatory approach to AI development itself. Consumer advocacy groups criticize the proposal as insufficiently protective of consumers, while tech industry groups support the unified federal regulatory approach and fair use protections.Read more →
The Verge...An automated moderation error left Tumblr users panickedTumblr's automated moderation system incorrectly banned dozens of accounts on Wednesday, with disproportionate impact on trans women users. Automattic acknowledged the error, disabled the system, and restored affected accounts. This incident reflects ongoing concerns about algorithmic bias in content moderation, following a 2022 settlement with New York City authorities over similar discrimination allegations.Read more →
Gizmodo...‘Ran and the Gray World’ Feels Like a Manga From a Bygone EraThis review of the manga 'Ran and the Gray World' criticizes how the story squanders its promising premise by using the protagonist's magical transformation from child to adult primarily for fanservice rather than meaningful coming-of-age storytelling. Despite the series' beautiful artwork, the narrative fails to explore interesting magical systems and family dynamics, ultimately delivering an aimless experience that settles for uncomfortable tropes instead of thoughtful character development.Read more →
Engadget...Pinterest CEO says teens under 16 should be banned from social media (but not Pinterest)Pinterest CEO Bill Ready publicly supports Australia's proposed ban on social media for teens under 16 and calls for governments worldwide to implement similar restrictions, citing safety concerns for young users. However, Ready argues Pinterest should be exempt from such bans, positioning the platform as a visual search tool with privacy protections and restricted messaging features for underage users. The stance is notable given Pinterest's substantial Gen Z user base and follows prior child safety issues with the platform's recommendation algorithm.Read more →
Gizmodo...Feds Are Downplaying Methane Leaks in America’s Biggest Oil Field, Satellite Data SuggestsThe EPA is drastically underreporting methane emissions from the Permian Basin, with satellite data revealing emissions nearly four times higher than official estimates. A Senate investigation has been launched to address the discrepancy and demand major oil companies disclose their emissions and reduction plans. Methane is a potent greenhouse gas trapping 28 times more heat than carbon dioxide, making accurate reporting critical for climate change mitigation efforts.Read more →
TechCrunch...Microsoft rolls back some of its Copilot AI bloat on WindowsMicrosoft is reducing Copilot AI integrations in Windows 11 apps like Photos, Widgets, and Notepad, adopting a 'less-is-more' approach focused on genuinely useful AI features. This shift reflects growing consumer concerns about AI bloat and trust issues, with recent research showing half of U.S. adults are now more concerned than excited about AI.Read more →
CNET...Mister Rogers Finds a New Neighborhood on YouTube, and It's FreeFred Rogers Productions has partnered with Little Dot Studios to bring the classic Mister Rogers' Neighborhood to YouTube, with a dedicated channel launching in summer 2026 featuring full episodes and short-form content. The move makes the iconic show, which originally aired from 1968-2001 with 895 episodes, more discoverable and accessible to new generations across multiple platforms including PBS, Amazon Prime Video, and Pluto TV.Read more →
Gizmodo...Hey Bernie, That’s a Not an AI AgentSenator Bernie Sanders interviewed Claude, Anthropic's AI language model, to understand how companies collect and monetize user data for targeted advertising. Claude confirmed that extensive data collection occurs across multiple sources including browsing history and purchase records, with the primary motivation being financial gain. The interview highlights public concerns about data collection practices in AI development, though experts note Claude's responses may have been tailored to Sanders' particular policy interests.Read more →
Engadget...Microsoft will yank Copilot from some Windows apps and let you move the taskbar againMicrosoft is rolling out significant changes to Windows 11 in response to widespread user feedback and threats to switch to Linux. Key improvements include reducing Copilot integration across the OS, adding taskbar customization options, making updates less disruptive, and optimizing File Explorer performance. The company also plans to lower memory usage, improve system reliability, and reduce OS-level crashes going forward.Read more →
Gizmodo...Solar-Eclipsing Probe Back From the Dead After a Month of SilenceESA's Proba-3 Coronagraph spacecraft has reestablished contact with ground control after a month of silence following an in-flight anomaly. The mission uses two spacecraft flying in precise formation to create artificial solar eclipses that allow scientists to study the Sun's corona, helping resolve mysteries about solar phenomena and space weather that affect Earth.Read more →
CNET...14 of the Best Peacock Shows to Stream Right NowPeacock offers 14 highly-rated original shows worth watching despite recent price increases. The streaming service costs $11 monthly or $110 annually for ad-supported access and can be bundled with Apple TV. The platform highlights quality original content to justify its subscription cost.Read more →
Gizmodo...Sounds Like the ‘KPop Demon Hunters’ Directors Scored a Huge Payday for the SequelFollowing two Oscar wins, Netflix is proceeding with the KPop Demon Hunters sequel, with directors Maggie Kang and Chris Appelhans securing a lucrative five-year exclusive deal worth $10 million annually plus shares of merchandising and music revenue. The investment demonstrates Netflix's confidence in building a Disney-style entertainment franchise around its most-watched film.Read more →
Gizmodo...Strava’s Fitness App Exposed the Real-Time Location of a French Aircraft CarrierA French navy sailor exposed the location of France's flagship nuclear-powered aircraft carrier by sharing a geolocated workout on the Strava fitness app, demonstrating a widespread security vulnerability affecting military operations. This incident exemplifies 'StravaLeaks,' a pattern where military and security personnel worldwide have inadvertently compromised sensitive locations and operations through geolocation-enabled fitness app sharing.Read more →
CNET...iPhone Fold Might Not Go on Sale Until December, One Analyst SuggestsStock analyst Tim Long of Barclays predicts Apple will launch its first foldable iPhone in December, citing potential supply chain delays. While Apple is entering the foldable market later than competitors like Samsung and Motorola, analysis suggests the company's entry could capture approximately 28% of the foldable market and significantly reshape the competitive landscape.Read more →
Gizmodo...Nvidia CEO Wants Tech Execs to Stop Laying Off Workers and Scaring PeopleNvidia CEO Jensen Huang is addressing a growing public relations crisis around AI by urging a more balanced approach to the technology's impact on society and regulation. Huang warns against 'doomerism' about AI and argues that excessive fear could harm US competitiveness as other nations adopt the technology. He advocates for AI being used to augment workers' capabilities rather than replace jobs outright, with AI agents handling mundane tasks while workers elevate their expertise.Read more →
Gizmodo...Physicists Say They’ve Cracked the Mystery of Volcanic LightningScientists have discovered that carbon-rich molecular films on particle surfaces drive triboelectric charging in volcanic ash, explaining the long-puzzling phenomenon of volcanic lightning. This finding could advance industrial applications including laser printing, mineral processing, and industrial exhaust treatment systems.Read more →
TechCrunch...What happened at Nvidia GTC: NemoClaw, Robot Olaf, and a $1 trillion betAt its GTC conference, Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang projected $1 trillion in AI chip sales through 2027 while positioning the company as foundational to AI infrastructure across diverse industries including autonomous vehicles and entertainment. The presentation highlighted Nvidia's expanding ecosystem of partnerships designed to integrate AI capabilities across the technology landscape.Read more →
The Verge...A new Nintendo Switch 2 could be the poster child for replaceable batteriesNintendo plans to release a Switch 2 revision in the European Union that will let users replace their own batteries, Nikkei reports. The current version of the Switch 2 has a glued-in battery. But Nintendo apparently plans to make the change in order to comply with EU rules going into effect in February 2027 that […]Read more →
CNET...Dancing Robot Gets Too Funky at a California Hot Pot RestaurantA humanoid robot from AGiBot designed to perform dances caused unexpected damage at a California hot pot restaurant when its breakdancing moves became too vigorous for the confined dining space, breaking dishes and requiring employees to restrain it. The incident, captured on viral videos, highlighted the challenges of deploying humanoid robots in unpredictable real-world environments with limited spatial constraints. The restaurant confirmed the robot was functioning as programmed, but the proximity to dining tables and dishware proved problematic for its performance capabilities.Read more →
Gizmodo...Nevada Bans Kalshi for at Least the Next Two WeeksA Nevada court issued a 14-day restraining order halting Kalshi, an online prediction market, from operating in the state—the first state to completely shut down the company. The Nevada Gaming Control Board argues Kalshi violates gaming regulations by avoiding taxes and licensing requirements. The legal action reflects growing regulatory pressure across multiple states, though Kalshi is raising $1 billion at a $22 billion valuation.Read more →
The Verge...Future Sony PlayStation games will use AI to imagine new framesMark Cerny, the lead architect of the PlayStation 5 and PS5 Pro, told Digital Foundry that ML-based frame generation tech is coming to "PlayStation platforms" in the future, letting the game console use AI to imagine new frames between the ones it's actually rendering, which can create smoother perceived image quality while (typically) introducing some […]Read more →
Gizmodo...New Study Highlights Carbon Fiber Weakness That Sounds All Too Familiar After Titan FiascoAustralian researchers discovered that moisture absorption, not temperature or humidity exposure, is the critical factor determining how carbon fiber materials degrade over time. This finding has significant implications for deep-sea submersible design, particularly following OceanGate's Titan implosion in 2023, and suggests engineers must better control moisture content when designing carbon fiber structures for long-term underwater service.Read more →
Gizmodo...Everything We Know About the Future of ‘Star Trek’Star Trek enters its 60th anniversary in a period of uncertainty, with no active production underway despite multiple television and film projects in development. Paramount's corporate restructuring through the Skydance merger and potential Warner Bros. Discovery acquisition creates ambiguity about the franchise's future priorities and timelines. Confirmed projects include Starfleet Academy season two, the final seasons of Strange New Worlds, and a new Star Trek film, though several stalled movie projects remain officially unconfirmed.Read more →
Engadget...The White House proposes new AI policy framework that supersedes state lawsThe White House announced a new AI policy framework aimed at establishing federal regulation that supersedes conflicting state-level AI laws. The framework addresses child privacy and workforce AI applications, with the administration asserting that uniform federal oversight is critical to prevent regulatory fragmentation and maintain American competitiveness in the global AI market. This proposal seeks to centralize AI governance after previous attempts to preempt state regulations have faced legislative obstacles.Read more →
TechCrunch...Amidst legal turmoil, Kalshi is temporarily banned in NevadaKalshi, a prediction market platform, faces mounting legal challenges as Arizona filed criminal charges and Nevada issued a temporary operating ban, with state regulators arguing the platform operates as illegal gambling without proper licenses. The case intensifies a jurisdictional dispute between state authorities and the federal CFTC, which claims exclusive regulatory jurisdiction over registered prediction exchanges, signaling a broader regulatory battle over prediction markets' legality across the United States.Read more →
CNET...Disco Elysium, Absolum and More Indie Darlings Head to Xbox Game PassXbox Game Pass is expanding its library with a batch of indie games and notable titles at the end of March and beginning of April, including Disco Elysium, Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth, Absolum, The Long Dark, Resident Evil 7, Final Fantasy 4, and others. The subscription service, available from $10 to $30 monthly across Xbox, PC, and mobile devices, continues to strengthen its appeal with diverse games spanning RPGs, survival experiences, and action titles. Two games will be removed from the service in March, including Peppa Pig: World Adventures and Mad Streets.Read more →
TechCrunch...Pinterest CEO calls on governments to ban social media for users under 16Pinterest CEO Bill Ready called for governments to ban social media access for users under 16, citing research showing increased rates of depression, anxiety, and reduced concentration in youth. He praised Australia's regulatory approach and compared tech companies to tobacco executives, arguing that the industry must prioritize child safety or face government-mandated restrictions.Read more →
Gizmodo...Trump Proposes a ‘Light Touch’ National Framework for AI PolicyThe Trump administration released a national AI policy framework recommending industry-friendly regulations that prioritize federal preemption over state laws and shield AI developers from liability for third-party outputs. The framework permits AI model training on copyrighted material without copyright violations and proposes age assurance requirements similar to existing social media regulations. These recommendations reflect administration goals for global AI dominance while supporting major technology companies.Read more →
The Verge...Windows 11 is finally getting a movable taskbarMicrosoft is reintroducing the ability to move the Windows 11 taskbar to the top or sides of the screen, a feature that has been one of the most requested changes since Windows 11's 2021 launch. This enhancement is part of broader updates to address criticisms about Windows 11's performance, reliability, and user experience. The feature will roll out to Windows Insiders first before reaching all Windows 11 users later this year.Read more →
The Verge...Microsoft is ending the Windows Update nightmare — and letting you pause them indefinitelyMicrosoft is implementing an initiative focused on rebuilding user trust in Windows, addressing concerns and restoring confidence in the operating system platform.Read more →
CNET...Best Streaming Services for Reality TVThis CNET guide compares major streaming services' reality TV offerings, evaluating Peacock, Paramount Plus, Discovery Plus, Hulu, and Netflix based on content catalogs, pricing, and features. Each service caters to different preferences, with Peacock excelling in NBC and Bravo content, Paramount Plus in CBS shows, and Netflix in originals. The analysis helps viewers select a service based on favorite networks, simultaneous streaming needs, and budget constraints.Read more →
The Verge...This is Microsoft's plan to fix Windows 11Microsoft announced major improvements to address Windows 11's trust and usability issues, starting with reduced Copilot integration, taskbar repositioning, and less disruptive updates. The company plans broader enhancements throughout the year focused on system performance, memory efficiency, File Explorer functionality, and reliability. Key changes include single monthly update reboots, improved Windows Hello authentication, and reduced AI intrusion with greater user control and transparency.Read more →
